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The Best Korean BBQ Spots Around Town | L.A. Eats

In Southern California, you’ll find a vast array of dining options. With a large Korean community, there are also some superb Korean BBQ options. In this week’s blog, we are sharing our favorite spots you’ll love. Read on and try out one of these delicious bites in Southern California.

Los Angeles Korean BBQ

Jeong Yuk Jeom

Location: 621 S Western Ave #100 | Los Angeles

You can always find a table at this huge, two-story Korean BBQ joint, even on the weekend during peak hours. It has a great selection of prime-grade short rib and dry-aged cuts.

Daedo Sikdang

Location: 4001 W 6th St | Los Angeles

Located on a massive, sleek building on W. 3rd Street, this is the only US location of the illustrious Seoul steakhouse. The primary focus of its short menu is premium cuts such as the rib eye roll, dry-aged strips, and marinated Angus beef.

Parks BBQ

Location: 955 S Vermont Ave G | Los Angeles

Parks BBQ offers high-quality Korean BBQ. It has an extensive menu with several combo platters that include a magnificent parade of meats like banchan, short rib, bulgogi, and rib eye. The quality of meat in Parks BBQ is unmatched.

Westside and Beach Communities Korean BBQ

Galbi King

Location: 11267 National Blvd | West Los Angeles

You’ll find all your favorite cuts there, including flavorful and tender beef belly as well as some fantastic pork jowl. This local spot is also easily accessible and has plenty of parking.

Mom & Bop

Location: 1707 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica

Santa Monica’s Mom & Bop is the perfect spot for a quick bite and delicious Korean BBQ. It serves top-tier cuts of meat, making it ideal for an important business meeting and date night.

Wharo

Location: 4029 Lincoln Blvd, Marina Del Rey

At Wharo in Marina del Rey, you are likely to find some fantastic eats. The dining spot is a great choice for well-to-do professionals to casual friend outings or anyone looking to enjoy some awesome Korean BBQ.

San Fernando Valley Korean BBQ

House of Galbi

Location: 15927 Ventura Blvd | Encino

This neighborhood spot menu focuses on relaxed, simple bites. At this Encino spot, you can expect large portions and excellent customer service.

TaeKwon 92

Location: 250 W Valley Blvd ste p | San Gabriel

Located on the San Gabriel Valley, Taekwon 92 offers three tiers of All You Can Eat deals, none of which compromises on quality. Devour as much prime short rib or dry-aged rib eye as you can stuff your face with.

Musse

Location: 8456 Reseda Blvd | Northridge

Offering authentic Ban Chan, Musse is a must-try spot in Northridge. Enjoy the finest meat cuts in town, including must-orders like marinated short rib and skirt steak.

Conejo Valley Korean BBQ

Janchi Korean BBQ

Location: 165 N Moorpark Rd, Thousand Oaks

Here you’ll find an All You Can Eat, “Self-Grill” set-up, so one should ensure they come hungry. Likewise, we recommend spicy pork bulgogi, beef bulgogi, and marinated short ribs. Good options include pork dishes and marinated beef.

Heat KBBQ By MGD Hollywood

HEAT KBBQ By MGD Hollywood Delivery Menu | Order Online | 1714 Newbury Rd Newbury Park | Grubhub

Location: 1714 Newbury Rd, Thousand Oaks

Enjoy premium all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ, especially for a casual evening out. The restaurant offers a number of delicious options to choose from to meet every taste.

TJ Korean BBQ

Location: 17623 Sherman Way, Van Nuys

For a premium selection of meats, look no further than TJ Korean BBQ. Likewise, TJ takes pride in its wet-aged meat so you can expect a memorable dining experience.

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Local Bookstores Around Town | Out & About

Finding the perfect book to read is about more than just grabbing the first thing off the shelf at your local location of a chain bookstore. Rather, you want to find a book that really speaks to you, something that fits your idea of a perfect day, something unique, something special. That’s why finding local bookstores is so important because they can provide you all of that and more.

The Last Bookstore

Location: DTLA

One of LA’s most famed local bookstores, the Last Bookstore has a collection of the latest books by the top authors. In addition, they also have a collection of over 500,000 used and collectible books. If you’re looking for a particular book, whether new, used, or collectible, chances are you’ll be able to find it here. After all, it is almost an entire block in size.

Book Monster

Location: Santa Monica

For local bookstores on the wetside, visit Book Monster. The shop offers old and new books with the added convenience close to the beach. You can pop in and find a great read before a relaxing seaside day. Open every day of the week, you’ll never run out of new things to check out, including CDS and DVDs.

The Illiad

Location: San Fernando Valley

As far as epic names and cool local bookstores, The Illiad has it all. At this small shop, you get the experience of going to the library, except you get to keep the books, and there are cats. You’ll find this cute shop with its beautiful murals and giant books outside to be more than ready for a few photos. And you may even get the opportunity to cuddle up with a cat or two while you’re selecting your next read of the packed shelves.

Skylight Books

Location: Los Angeles,

As far as local bookstores in LA Skylight Books offers a selection of great reads related to the arts and literary fiction. In addition, they have a fantastic primary focus on LA history. You’ll also find plenty to do in this shop if you’re looking for a place to hang out because they offer special artist and author events frequently.

Village Well Books & Coffee

Location: Culver City

A freshly brewed coffee and a great book? Yes, please! For local bookstores in Culver City, you’ll love Village Well Books & Coffee. They offer plenty of great book options and a place to meet fellow book lovers. In fact, they have a book club available for those who are interested in reading something new with some new friends.

Once Upon a Time

Location: Montrose

If the name doesn’t say it all, Once Upon Time is perfect for a family bookstore visit. This little shop is focused on children’s books so it’s a great place to take the little ones to foster a love of reading and get something new to read together.

If you’re looking for your next great read you can’t go wrong with any of these local bookstores, and while you’re there, you just might find a new favorite.

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What Your Bedroom Paint Says About You | Home Tips

Nothing speaks more profoundly of your personality than the paint colors that you choose for your home. Likewise, the color scheme you choose for your personal haven, i.e. your bedroom, says volumes about who you really are.

A Colorful Personality

Architects have long known that paint colors can affect your mood. For example, orange and yellow tones will make you feel hungry, making them a good choice for dining areas. On the other hand, blue invokes feelings of calmness like still water. This is partially why, when choosing a bedroom paint color, you must think of the mood you are looking to create.

What to Consider in Choosing a Bedroom Paint Color…

Keep in mind that you want your personal space to be soothing and relaxing, a place that allows you to take a comfortable break from your day-to-day activities and not an area that will make you feel desperately hungry, no matter how much you like the combination of orange and yellow paint colors. So, let’s take a look at bedroom paint colors that stand out and will help you make the statement you want.

Green as Bedroom Paint Color

    • With a very wide range of green shades available today, green will always be one of the most relaxing bedroom paint colors on the market. It is reminiscent of nature and the tranquility it inspires. But, as with anything, it’s best to stay away from the brighter shades, unless you really love pistachio, in order to achieve a sense of calm elegance in your personal oasis. On the darker part of the scale, a toned-down olive color can blend well with very light gray accents and white ceilings, which will not only provide a restful and comfortable environment but also one that embellishes the elegance of your character.
Browns as a Bedroom Paint Color

    • Earthen tones, when used as main bedroom colors in combination with creamy neutrals, can lend a sense of well-being and warmth to any area. Keep in mind that these colors can make your bedroom seem less luminous so make sure your ceilings are done in lighter paint colors, preferably cream color or off-white.
Lilacs as a Bedroom Paint Color

    • Washed lilac tones can add a touch of luminous relaxation to your bedroom paint. When used in combination with light green accents and pale grey, you will wake up every morning to a refreshing sensation filled with light and fresh air.
Neutrals as a Bedroom Paint Color  

    • These classic colors never seem to go out of style and go well with almost any type of bright accent, giving you a sense of restfulness when you need it the most.
Blues as a Bedroom Paint Color

    • Just as with the green palette, blues are a way to add a touch of nature to your personal space, except in this case, instead of getting the sensation of relaxing in the midst of a silent forest, you will create the feeling of being in a breezy ocean paradise. Blues are available in a myriad of tones, so choose the one you like best and let your imagination fly as you combine it with almost any other color you like, although your best effect will certainly be achieved with gray, white, cream, or pale violet accents.

Choosing bedroom paint colors doesn’t have to follow any fixed set of rules. It is your personal paradise and, as such, it should reflect your tastes and style. The only thing you should make sure of when you are looking for a new bedroom paint scheme is that you fall in love with it.

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Economic Update | Week Ending March 23, 2024

This week the Fed left interest rates unchanged. In their remarks, they said that they still expect to make three rate drops in 2024 despite inflation remaining above their target rate. They also commented on the strength of the labor market and that they expect unemployment to remain low. They also made reference to easing of other quantitative policies designed to slow the economy. Investors took the news well and stocks surged while bond yields and mortgage rates dropped on expectations of lower rates soon.

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 39,475.90, up 2% from 38,714.77 last week. It is up 4.7% year-to-date.  The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,234.18, up 2.3% from 5,117.09 last week.  The S&P is up 9.8% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 16,428.82 up 2.8% from 15,973.17 last week. It is up 9.4% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.22%, down from 4.31% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.39%, down from 4.43%last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of March 21, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.87%, up from 6.74% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.21%, up from 6.16% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Year-over-year home prices jumped almost 10% in California  – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 290,020 in February, up 12.8% from 257,040 closed sales in January and up 1.3% from a revised 286,290 homes sold on an annualized basis last January.There was a 3-month supply of homes on the market in February, down up from a 3.2-month month supply of homes in January and down from a 3.1-month supply one year ago.  The statewide median price paid for a home in February was $809,460, up 9.7% from a revised median price of $789,480 last February.

The graph below shows home sales figures by county in Southern California.

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Mortgage Rate Update | March 21, 2024

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of March 21, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.87%, up from 6.74% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.21%, up from 6.16% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

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From Microsoft AI to Segway and More! | Tech News

It’s time for our weekly wrap-up of the top tech news from across the web! From Microsoft AI to Segway and more, we have you covered. Read on below and stay connected with the major tech news headlines of the week.

Microsoft introduces its initial AI-powered PCs

Microsoft is preparing for its “year of the AI PC” with the introduction of two new Surface devices, the Surface Pro 10 for Business and the Surface Laptop 6 for Business. Both feature Intel’s latest Core Ultra processors and Microsoft’s new Copilot key, alongside a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) to enhance AI-powered features in Windows 11. The devices, slated for commercial release on April 9th, maintain a familiar design externally but boast significant upgrades internally. The Surface Pro 10 for Business offers a choice between Core Ultra 5 135U and Core Ultra 7 165U options, while the Surface Laptop 6 for Business is equipped with Intel’s Core Ultra H-series chips for enhanced performance. Both devices include various improvements such as upgraded displays, improved cameras, NFC readers, and optional 5G connectivity. Microsoft plans to unveil consumer versions of these devices at a later date, coinciding with the introduction of new AI features for Windows 11.

Threads opens beta for Fediverse, enabling post sharing on Mastodon

Threads introduces beta testing for its fediverse integration in the US, Canada, and Japan, allowing users to cross-post and view likes from federated platforms such as Mastodon. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the feature’s rollout, which requires users to have a public account to activate. While the integration enables interaction with content across platforms, there are limitations, including the inability to view replies and follows from the fediverse. Nonetheless, this move marks Threads’ expansion into the fediverse after initially testing its ActivityPub integration last year, offering users more options for sharing and interacting with content.

Google Introduces Satellite Messaging to Android 15

Google has released the second developer preview for Android 15, featuring long-awaited satellite messaging support alongside enhancements to contactless payments, multi-language recognition, volume consistency, and PDF interaction within apps. Scheduled for public release later this year, the beta addresses user concerns, such as apps understanding service unavailability during satellite connection use, and introduces screen recording detection and improved contactless payment reliability. Additionally, developers gain expanded access to flip phone small cover screens, adherence to a new loudness standard, and enhanced PDF features like password protection and annotation.

YouTube TV introduces multiview for iPhones and iPads, just in time for March Madness

YouTube TV has expanded its multiview feature to iOS and iPadOS devices. The update allows subscribers to watch multiple programs simultaneously, just in time for March Madness. While Android users will have to wait for the feature, iOS users can now enjoy watching up to four different streams at once. However, the feature remains focused on sports content, limiting its flexibility for other types of programming. Users can access multiview streams through the YouTube TV app, provided they have updated to version 8.11 or later. 

Segway Introduces Sub-$1,000 Smart Robot Mower to the US Market

Segway’s Navimow i series robot lawn mower is now available in the US. The news marks one of the first robotic mowers priced under $1,000 with autonomous navigation capabilities. The series includes the i105N and the i110N covering 0.125 acres and 0.25 acres. Utilizing Segway’s Exact Fusion Locating System 2.0 the mower promises efficient lawn care. With AI-powered mapping, the Navimow i series offers advanced features previously available only in pricier models. The release signifies a step towards the mainstream adoption of robotic mowers.

Former co-founder of Google DeepMind appointed as CEO of Microsoft’s newly formed AI division

Microsoft appoints Mustafa Suleyman, co-founder of Google DeepMind, as CEO of its new consumer-facing AI division. As such, Suleyman will oversee products like Copilot, Bing, and Edge. Suleyman, also named executive vice president of Microsoft AI, brings a wealth of experience in AI leadership. Alongside Suleyman, Microsoft hires talent from his startup Inflection AI, including co-founder Karén Simonyan. This move signifies Microsoft’s commitment to advancing AI technologies.

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Weekend Events | March 22 – March 24

Enjoy all that the weekend has to offer with our round-up of events happening from March 22 through March 24. From food fairs to TV reunions and more, we have you covered! See what’s happening in your neck of the woods below!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | March 22 – March 24 

Jean-Michel Basquiat: Made on Market Street

When: March 7 – June 1, 2024 

Where: Beverly Hills

What: Were you captivated by last year’s Basquiat exhibition in Downtown Los Angeles and left craving for more? Make your way to Beverly Hills, where Gagosian is set to showcase 50 seldom-seen pieces by Jean-Michel Basquiat. These works, created in Los Angeles, hail from the artist’s prolific period at his Venice studio from 1982 to 1984.

John Williams Spotlight

When: Until May 19, 2024

Where: DTLA

What: In the ongoing multi-year tribute to John Williams by the LA Phil, attendees can experience “A Century of Film” from February 2 to 4. This event, conducted by David Newman, will feature a selection of pieces from several of Williams’ scores, including Indiana Jones and Close Encounters, alongside music from Batman, The Godfather, Back to the Future, Lawrence of Arabia, and other iconic films.

Luna Luna: Forgotten Fantasy

When: Through Spring 2024

Where: Boyle Heights

What: In the summer of 1987, Germany hosted a unique carnival where traditional rides were embellished with art from Salvador Dalí, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, David Hockney, Sonia Delaunay, and many others. After that summer, this distinctive carnival disappeared, tucked away in storage for years. Recently, however, Luna Luna has been resurrected in Los Angeles. Thanks to the efforts of several art world collaborators and Drake, the carnival has been meticulously restored and reassembled. It is now open for visitors in a Boyle Heights soundstage until the spring of 2024.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | March 22 – March 24 

Dog Walking Hours at South Coast Botanic Garden

When: Until March 24

Where: Palos Verdes

What: Do you and your furry companion feel inseparable lately? Enjoy more bonding time together with the dog-friendly events at Palos Verdes’ South Coast Botanic Garden. Every third Sunday, explore the garden’s vast 87 acres with your four-legged friend. Humans need to book a reservation, and all dogs must be leashed at all times, even in the parking lot.

The Mean Girls Experience L.A.

When: Until April 21, 2024 

Where: Santa Monica

What: Get ready to immerse yourself in a Mean Girls-inspired adventure in Santa Monica where you might just hear some “you can’t sit with us!” exclamations. With each ticket, you’ll enjoy a meal consisting of an entree and side (such as the “Stab” Caesar salad and cheese fries) in a cafeteria-style atmosphere. Additionally, you’ll have access to the Cool Mom Bar and numerous photo opportunities, including Regina’s bedroom mirror, the Burn Book, and the talent show stage.

Poppy Day

When: March 23

Where: Westside Waldorf School

What: Westside Waldorf School invites families with children ages 0 – 6 to join them for a day of springtime fun and joyful play at their Poppy Day event. This gathering brings people together to celebrate the earth and the renewal of the spring season. The event features a range of activities, from outdoor play and seed planting to crafting, puppet shows, and shopping, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Friends and families are encouraged to head down to Westside Waldorf School for a day filled with laughter, age-appropriate amusement, and unforgettable memories. It’s an opportunity not to be missed for those looking to make the most of the spring season.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | March 22 – March 24 

Vegan Street Fair

When: March 22 – March 24

Where: North Hollywood

What: Check out the Vegan Street Fair in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, featuring 50 vendors offering everything from pizza to ice cream and burgers, along with drinks, crafts, and unique out-of-town options. Located on Chandler Boulevard, between Tujunga and Vineland Avenues, it includes stages with DJs, carnival rides, and games on Lankershim Boulevard and near Vineland. Entry is free, with food and activities pay-per-item, but a $55 fast pass is available to bypass lines.

Bluegrass Bonanza & Buffet

When: March 23

Where: Simi Valley

What: The Rotary Club of Simi Sunrise is extending an invitation for an evening filled with TV Memories, Music & Food at the Sunrise Bluegrass Bonanza & Buffet in Simi Valley. The Sunrise Bluegrass Bonanza offers a perfect setting for those who hold dear the narratives of family, community, and the pioneering spirit. It provides an opportunity for enthusiasts to come together, exchange stories, and delve into an ambiance that echoes the pioneer culture.

Intro to California Native Plant Garden Design

When: March 22

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation

What: Prepare to dive into landscaping with native plants through this unique beginner’s course! This session will guide you in learning to evaluate, map, and design your home or community garden with considerations for light, irrigation, space, and other factors. It’s an excellent opportunity for those eager to begin their landscaping journey. Tim Becker, the Theodore Payne Foundation’s Director of Horticulture and an experienced landscaper, will lead the class.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | March 22 – March 24 

THOUSAND OAKS PHILHARMONIC OPUS 64 CONCERT

When: March 22-24, 204

Where: Scherr Forum Theater

What: Opus 64 will feature 9 amazing young musicians along with the Thousand Oaks Philharmonic, conducted by Maxim Kuzin. Experience the enchanting music concertos by Schröter, Hayden, Vivaldi, Mozart, Barber, Grandjany, Saint-Saëns performed with passion and skill. If you have any inquiries or need assistance, email tophilharmonic@tophil.org.

LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE 50TH ANNIVERSARY CAST REUNION & FESTIVAL

When: March 22-24, 2024

Where: RANCHO SANTA SUSANA PARK | Simi Valley

What: Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the iconic television series, “Little House on the Prairie,” at this 3-day festival and cast reunion. The festival will take place at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park in Simi Valley. There will be 1870s-style food, music, and entertainment. Reserve Tickets at: https://littlehousefestival.com/event-info.

YOGA ON THE MOUNTAIN

When: March 23

Where: King Gilette Ranch

What: Join instructors Greg and Dawn for a yoga session at King Gillette Ranch. All skill levels are welcome. Participants are advised to bring their own yoga mat. This is a free event with free parking. Reservations are required. Please arrive 10 minutes early.

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Instagram-worthy Places to Dine | LA Eats

Los Angeles is known for its amazing food scene, but it’s also home to some of the most visually stunning restaurants in the world. Whether you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy spot or simply want to dine in a beautiful environment, we have got you covered. Here are some of the best aesthetically pleasing places to dine in LA!

Instagram-worthy Places to Dine in the City

Catch Steak

Location: 650 N La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069

Catch Steak is a contemporary steakhouse in a 10,000-square-foot space previously occupied by Fig & Olive on Melrose Place. The restaurant has warm wood details, leather banquettes, and blackened metal touches, with an abundance of greenery throughout the 375-seat space, providing a verdant setting for both indoor and outdoor dining.

Musso & Frank Grill

Location: 6667 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028

Musso & Frank Grill is a timeless restaurant that has been relevant for decades. The restaurant’s dark woods, yellow lighting, and red jackets add to the classic continental fare and excellent service, which attracts locals and tourists alike.

Bacetti

Location: 1509 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026

In Echo Park, the Instagram-worthy Bacetti has been graced with beautiful lighting. The warm, golden hues of the wood contrast with the rust-colored tiles. The rooms are simple yet stunning, with ample glasswork that draws the eye toward the kitchen. A luxurious marble countertop featuring stunning streaks of ink blacks and grays separates the areas while still providing a seamless flow. The overall effect is a delightful mix of plants and shadows that add a splash of vibrancy to the space.

Kodo

Location: 710 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Kodo’s unique Instagram-worthy design stands out in the Arts District with its blend of light slate tones, stone, and blonde wood finishes. The restaurant seamlessly combines modern and timeless elements while incorporating both Japanese and Angeleno influences across its multiple dining spaces. Housed in a former firehouse, Kodo exudes a strong and confident presence.

Gigi’s

Location: 904 N Sycamore Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038

Gigi’s is a stylish, throwback little find that hearkens to midcentury panache with a vintage feel. The restaurant’s overall look is the late architect Osvaldo Maiozzi’s last work. The Instagram-worthy interior is designed by Andrew Cosbie, and interior architect Aejie Rhyu of ARA-la Studio handles details such as brass shelving, wood paneling, and millwork. It feels like an ageless hotel bar placed street-side in Tinseltown.

Mírate

Location: 1712 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Mírate, with multiple levels, two bars, and separate dining rooms, showcases Matthew Egan’s photography and murals by Jorge Telleache. The restaurant has a retractable roof and scenic views of the Griffith Observatory. The former event venue space was transformed by design firm Adean with new tiles, walled textiles, cushiony banquettes, and live plants, accommodating up to 180 diners.

Instagram-worthy Places to Dine on the Westside

Belles Beach House

Location: 24 Windward Ave, Venice, CA 90291

Belles Beach House is a restaurant located in the former location of Larry’s in Venice, which closed during the pandemic. The Instagram-worthy restaurant has an open-air patio that provides a comfortable and airy atmosphere, but it requires overhead electric heaters to keep it comfortable inside. There’s an outdoor patio that can accommodate 60 people.

Juliet

Location: 8888 Washington Blvd Suite 102, Culver City, CA 90232

Juliet is a restaurant with loads of marble, dark wood, and deep red tones. The rustic flooring, scalloped edges, and off-white fabrics create a cozy atmosphere, while the walk-up bar keeps the place lively. The restaurant can seat up to 120 people, and the ample outdoor patio adds another 1,500 square feet of street-side seating. Jeremiah Brent, the celebrated AD 100 designer, designed Juliet.

La Dolce Vita

Location: 9785 S Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90212

La Dolce Vita is a restaurant that takes patrons on a trip back in time with its burgundy leather booths and refurbished Italian chairs from almost half a century ago. Retro looks such as cheetah-printed carpets and the staff’s Denis Frison-designed uniforms contribute to the old-world charm of this Instagram-worthy restaurant.

Instagram-worthy Places to Dine in the Valley

Toadstool Cafe

Location: 127 James Stewart Ave, North Hollywood, CA 91602

Toadstool Cafe is a quirky and cartoonish destination that has been attracting hours-long lines since it first opened. The cafe’s impossibly whimsical interior transports eaters into the world of Mario, making it a popular destination.

Nobu Malibu

Location: 22706 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Nobu Malibu is a restaurant in LA that offers an exceptional dining experience. Located very close to the waves of the Pacific Ocean, Nobu’s light wood and delicate decor attract the see-and-be-seen types for dinner and sunset. Despite being a luxury chain, dining at Nobu is not like being at a corporate retreat but more like sipping champagne at the edge of the world.

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Out & About: Springtime in Big Bear

Located in San Bernadino, Southern California, Big Bear is a terrific place for fans of the great outdoors. Boasting the glistening snow-fed Big Bear Lake, which is the biggest recreational lake in Southern California, mountains and easy access to the wildlife-rich San Bernadino National Forest, a springtime staycation in Big Bear promises plenty of adventures. Here’s the lowdown on where to stay, eat, and drink, as well as cool things to see and do.

Big Bear: Where to Stay

There are many lovely lodges and cute cabins during springtime in Big Bear, perfect for an intimate romantic break or a lively getaway with family or friends.

The quaint family-run Grey Squirrel Resort has 19 comfortable cabins set among 3 scenic acres. An ideal place for a peaceful break in nature, the resort features a tranquil pond and a refreshing heated outdoor swimming pool. There’s no need to go without modern luxuries — there’s free Wi-Fi throughout the site and guests have access to laundry facilities. Each cabin boasts rustic features mixed with modern amenities. Some cabins have fireplaces, some have bathtubs, and some have a full kitchen … all are adorable! Cabins are available for between two and 14 people and some are pet friendly.

All of the 40-plus rooms at Marina Riviera provide beautiful lake views. Rooms have soothing colors inspired by nature and all have a mini-fridge, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi. Some rooms feature cozy fireplaces. Rooms are available for between two and four guests. Based on a Viking lodge, the rustic resort offers easy access to the area’s abundant activities, while on-site amenities include a heated pool and hot tub, fire pits, a sauna, and relaxing deck seating.

Big Bear: Where to Eat

Big Bear has plentiful places to eat, most with relaxed vibes and menus loaded with comforting favorites.

Peppercorn Grille has indoor and heated outdoor seating and offers a touch of elegance with top-class service. Savor appetizers like calamari, Maui crab cakes and shrimp sauté before sinking your teeth into pizza, pasta, pistachio-crusted chicken, lobster tail, and steak. It’s a popular spot in Big Bear and reservations are recommended.

The Pines Lakefront offers upscale dining right at the water’s edge. Take a seat on the patio to marvel at the lake and mountains or enjoy the luxury appeal of the indoor dining room. Wooden floors, plush carpets, nostalgic décor, and lilting piano music enhance the ambiance. Known for its seafood and steak dishes, tempting dinner items include St. Louis smoked ribs, fillet mignon, Alaskan king crab legs, chicken teriyaki, and linguine with clams. Veggie-friendly options are available and the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Big Bear: Where to Sip

For many people, enjoying a few relaxing drinks is part of the appeal of a springtime in Big Bear staycation. The area has several bars and pubs where you can unwind after a day of activities.

Big Bear Mountain Brewery is housed in an old masonic lodge. Filled with vintage items and rustic touches, it’s a perfect place to chat with friends over a glass of craft beer. Desert Citrus, Habitual Haze, Hop-O-Matic, and Honey Buzz are just a few to tempt you. The bar also serves a selection of popular bottled beers, wines, and soft drinks, as well as hearty pub grub.

Join the action at Whiskey Dave’s sports bar, rumored to have its very own resident ghost! There’s live rock and roll every weekend and the 22 TVs mean there’s no fear of missing your favorite teams. Pool tables and foosball add to the fun, and there’s a full food menu if you start to feel hungry. The bar is stocked with an array of cool beers, strong spirits, and fruity alcopops.

Big Bear: What to See and Do

Diverse outdoor activities appeal to varied tastes in Big Bear. During Springtime you can fish, boat, jetski, and so much more! Although it’s probably still too cool to swim in the lake on a springtime staycation, take a plunge if you’re feeling brave! By spring the ski season has typically ended. Likewise, other outdoor activities include hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding to enjoy instead.

Travel back in time at Gold Rush Mountain Adventures, a unique gift shop and ghost town where you can learn about the area’s gold-mining past. Likewise, there are many family-friendly activities like panning for gold, exploring a magical cave, and more.

Get the adrenaline pumping at Magic Mountain Recreation Area, home to the famous Alpine Slide. Soak up the vistas from the chairlift before enjoying the only authentic bobsled in Southern California.

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Perfect Spring Plants to Pot this Season | Home Tips

Container gardening is one of the best ways to welcome spring and say goodbye to the cold winter. This is because, at the beginning of spring, the soil in your garden could still be too cold to support the growth of most plants. On the other hander, potting soil can absorb enough heat from the sun to support the growth of plants that can significantly enhance the aesthetic value of your house. Below are some of the best plants you can consider potting this spring.

Hellebore

This is an evergreen plant that is known for doing well in shady areas. The plant can begin to bloom towards the end of winter even when there is a light snowfall. Once the blooming is over, you can relocate the plant to the landscape where it can continue thriving for years to come.

Columbine

Columbine is known for its compact foliage. With its beautiful, delicate flowers, it can grow up to two feet. Although its flowers attract hummingbirds, they are resistant to rabbits and deer. Columbine can do well with a medium amount of moisture even in a place without a lot of light.

English Ivy

English ivy has leaves that look terrific in early spring. The leaves are also known to tolerate frost. English ivy is great for its draping habit in pots. However, this is plant is highly invasive, and therefore, it is advisable to keep it in its pot instead of transplanting it to your garden.

Spotted Dead Nettle

This plant is an excellent option for edging your pots in spring. Although this plant is not going to bloom until May or June, its foliage will beautifully spill over the edges of your containers

Coral Bells

Coral bells are perennial plants are known for doing exemplary well even in shade. They are unfussy and cold-tolerant, meaning that they thrive even in early spring. They are known for their foliage, but their spring flowers are also spectacular.

The Bottom Line

If you’re looking for an excellent way to welcome the season planting spring plants will do the trick! However, the soil could still be too cold to support most plant species, particularly in early spring. The good news is that there are many beautiful plants you can choose to pot to make your home look more beautiful after a harsh winter. You just have to know what you want to achieve and pick spring plants that can help you to achieve your objectives.

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