The Perfect Solvang Staycation | Out & About

You won’t need your passport for a staycation in Solvang. “A little slice of Denmark in Southern California,” the city of Solvang, certainly makes for the perfect local getaway. Located in the Santa Ynez Valley, this historic Danish town is ideally situated in Santa Barbara Wine Country. Depending on where you are driving in from and, of course, LA traffic, you’ll be whisked away by the charm of this city within a 1 ½ to 2-hour drive. So what exactly do you do once you arrive? We’re sharing a few of our favorite ways to stay, eat and play in California’s favorite (and only) Danish village.

Stay Awhile
Hotel Ynez

If you would like to add a bit of the French countryside to your Danish excursion, Hotel Ynez serves as an excellent choice. Located on two private acres, Hotel Ynez is the perfect escape from the urban hustle and bustle/ The property features lush gardens, bonfire pits, a pool, and an inviting outdoor pavilion where you can take in a night under the stars. 

Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort

Located on a 10,000-acre private ranch, the Alisal is ideal for those seeking a dose of western culture. Considered a world-class resort, the hotel is considered one of California’s premier guest ranches. During your stay, you can enjoy horseback riding, (2) 18-hole golf courses, tennis, or even fly fishing. 

Wine Valley Inn & Cottages

Located in the quiet downtown neighborhood, Wine Valley Inn & Cottages offers the quintessential ambiance of Solvang. With 56 spacious guestrooms, 6 charming individual cottages surrounding a private garden, and one grand suite, you have a range of options to enjoy your stay. The inn is also within walking distance of wine-tasting rooms and a short drive to Santa Ynez Valley’s best wineries. 

The Landsby

If you prefer accommodations with a modern touch, The Landsby is ideal. This beautiful boutique hotel offers contemporary designs with the ambiance of Scandinavian aesthetics. Moreover, their remodeled guest rooms are bright and open, with comfortable hand-crafted furnishings and breathtaking artwork commissioned by regional artists.

Dine and Sip
Olsen’s Bakery

As one of the two significant bakeries in Solvang, you’ll enjoy delicious kringles, cakes, cookies, and bread at Olsen’s. The bakery has been turning out delicious treats since 1970. Just make sure you arrive early if you want to grab a pastry for breakfast. As one of the town’s main attractions, they are known for having lines that stretch around the corner.

Mortensen’s Bakery

One look at the website for Mortensen’s will have you making a drive to Solvang just for their Bear Claws. The other beloved bakery in town (there are over five authentic bakeries), Mortensen’s, is another must. In short, you can’t go wrong with choices like their Pistachio Square or Danish Butter Cookie. 

Mad & Vin

If you are staying at The Landsby, you won’t have to go far for Danish dining. Mad & Vin is the hotel’s charming, elegant wood-clad food and wine bar serving a seasonal menu of wine-country-inspired farm-to-table fare prepared with regional ingredients.

First & Oak

First & Oak is located inside the charming Mirabelle Inn. They offer a selection of small plates emphasizing flavor and finesse. You are encouraged to create your own tasting menu for a unique dining experience.

Stroll and Play
Shopping

Treat yourself and browse through 150 boutique shops for unique treasures.

Wine Sampling

Enjoy the region’s best and sample wine & beer at 20 downtown tasting rooms offering the products of over 125 area vineyards.

Discover Danish & American Culture

Take in the culture of this quaint Danish town. Explore any of the following local museums: Elverhoj Museum of History & Art, The Wildling Museum of Art & Nature, Hans Christian Andersen, Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum, Old Mission Santa Inés, plus Amber Museum & Hall of the Danes.

Valley Eats: Date Night at Home

Date night isn’t what it used to be. With restaurants closed throughout Southern California and residents under shelter-in-place orders, venturing out for an evening away from the kids, or simply as a couple, is impossible. So why not order in from any of the restaurants that remain open for delivery or takeout? You’ll be supporting a business in need while carving out some time for yourselves. Just call ahead as hours and menu choices are naturally subject to change. (Disclaimer: If you are not comfortable ordering take out during this time, please consider purchasing a gift card from your favorite local restaurant to support them).

Conejo Valley

The Cliffdiver

21337 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu  | 424-235-2595

Takeout and delivery: Monday: closed; Tuesday: 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Wednesday: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Thursday: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday: 4 p.m. to 12 a.m.; Saturday: 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

You can’t carry the laid-back surf vibe home with you, so you’ll have to get by on eats alone from this Malibu restaurant: tacos, nachos, burritos and quesadillas (the vegetarian quesadilla comes especially recommended). Whatever you dine on, wash it down with a margarita or sangria to go, served in a 32-ounce container (or roughly four to five drinks). Your dining room may not be the beach, granted, but at least you won’t get sand in your shoes.

Lure Fish House

60 California Street, Ventura  |  805-567-4400

Takeout and delivery: 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

Featuring fresh, locally-sourced seafood, this family-owned restaurant offers plenty of favorites to go: from bowls like the miso-glazed swordfish with organic stir-fried seasonal vegetables and organic brown rice to market salads like the Seafood Louie with Dungeness crab, Pacific white shrimp, avocado and seven-minute egg. Other fare includes the New England clam chowder, salmon burger and grilled salmon tacos.

 

San Fernando Valley

Anajak Thai

14704 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks |  818-501-4201
Takeout and delivery: Tuesdays to Thursdays: 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Friday: 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday to Sunday: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

This family-owned Thai spot has been a neighborhood staple for nearly 40 years. They have their full menu available for takeout and are offering 20 percent off all bottles of wine. Start off with the papaya salad with dried shrimp and lime or the spicy lemongrass shrimp with roasted chili before moving onto their dinner selection of curries, stir-fries and plates, including a whole fried branzino with apple slaw, chili, lime and jasmine rice.

Din Tai Fung

177 Caruso Avenue, Glendale  |  818-551-5561
Takeout and Delivery: Monday to Thursday: 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Friday–Saturday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. 

The full menu of this superb dumpling restaurant in the Americana mall in Glendale is available for takeout and delivery – so enjoy. Whether you’re in the mood for potstickers or wontons in a spicy sauce or a soup dumpling (whether with added pork, truffle or crabmeat), the food here is equal parts delicate and delicious.

Santa Clarita Valley

Royal Tandoor

26532 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita  |  661-263-7100
Takeout and delivery: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

If you’re looking for classic Indian cuisine, including numerous vegetarian options, this relaxed restaurant offers no shortage of samosas, pakoras and kababs as well as tandoori and tikka dishes. Whatever you choose, don’t forget to add an order of flatbread.

Teriyaki Madness

28227 Newhall Ranch Road, Santa Clarita |  661-753-3366

Takeout and delivery: Monday to Friday: 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday to Sunday: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The full menu from this Asian fusion restaurant is available online or by phone. After selecting from such appetizers as the potstickers, chicken egg rolls and crab rangoon, roll up your sleeves and dive (virtually) into assembling your own teriyaki bowl with chicken, steak, salmon or tofu as protein options.

LA Eats: Top 10 Coffee Bars in LA

Now that the days are getting colder, a delicious cup of coffee to warm you up sounds really nice. The ambiance of the coffee shop is just as important as your cup of joe. We selected 10 coffee bars in the Los Angeles area that we feel will not only get you the best coffee in town but also that homey autumn vibe that makes us all feel warm and snug this time of year!

1. Coffee Commissary
Location: 3121 W Olive Ave, Burbank, CA 91505 (& six others)

The Burbank location is the only branch that has a full kitchen, meaning you can find fried chicken sandwiches, breakfast burritos and impressive house-baked goods on a daily basis! The growing chain now keeps studio workers well-caffeinated throughout TV, film, and radio production. It roasts mostly West Coast roasters and serves all cups with foamy panache.

 

2. Eightfold Coffee
Location: 1294 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026

This coffee bar looks like it is was made to appear on lifestyle blogs. The kind you just want to cozy up in with a book and a cup of joe, especially on these cold autumn days! The airy space, sports white walls (including white brick), a tile-backed marble bar, and wood-bench seating. Baristas brew Heart Coffee in vac spots, with a La Marzocco espresso machine. The cold brews are served in glasses big enough to keep you awake for two days straight!

3. Espresso Cielo
Location: 1431 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Espresso Cielo has two locations, each just a few blocks from the beach. With an antique clock, marble countertops and sky blue styling this will quickly become your new coffee oasis.

4. Intelligentsia
Location: 3922 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029

The coffee is roasted in nearby Glassell Park, the quality remains good given the high volume, and the signature Angeleno beverage is as popular as ever, featuring a quadruple shot of espresso shaken with milk, agave, and ice.

5. Rubies & Diamonds
Location: 6115 Sunset Blvd #150, Los Angeles, CA 90028

LAMILL co-founder Jean Shim went solo in 2015, debuting her fashionable coffee bar in Hollywood’s Columbia Square complex, in a space that features blue-grey and red walls lined with art and two elaborate chandeliers, including one crystal and another that resembles spaghetti. This coffee bar promotes BKON vacuum processed RAIN technology for coffee and tea, and they have nitro drinks!

 

6. Verve Coffee Roasters
Location: 8051 W. 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90048 (& two others)

This Santa Cruz import made a great first impression, with its first LA shop brightening an emerging part of downtown, and others popping around the city. The mid-city outpost on Third Street is the most ambitious to date, with a round copper and marble bar, exposed wood rafters and a Farm-level Bar in the back featuring rare coffees that showcase “ethics & excellence”.

7. Woodcat Coffee Bar
Location: 1532 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Reclaimed wood, box seating, and red walls give life to this neighborhood favorite. It also helps that this place brews expertly roasted beans from San Francisco’s Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters on their sleek Faema espresso machine.

8. Bar Nine
Location: 3515 Helms Ave, Culver City, CA 90232

The owners of this coffee joint work with Ninety Plus Coffee Agents to source coffee beans from Panama and Ethiopia, and then roasts them in house. Bar Nine’s baristas use the shop’s high-tech Modbar system with Chemex coffeemakers to get the precise cup of joe. It’s all about the little details, too. You can’t help but “aww” at the adorable to-go glass jars with lids. Try the creamy hazelnut milk latte, and don’t forget about breakfast!

9. Paramount Coffee Project
Location: 456 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036

The concrete and wood space features a multi-roaster lineup that rotates beans from American coffee powers like Heart and George Howell, plus coffee from roasters back home. The food program is more ambitious than most coffee bars, featuring plates like a burrata that’s accompanied by pistachio dukkah, kale, and eggs; and a Superfood Bowl that comes with quinoa, candied beets, lebni, blueberry, and cocoa.

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10. Alfred Coffee & Kitchen
Location: Beverly Grove (& other locations)

Alfred’s iconic sign “but first, coffee” is Instagram post-worthy and reinforces the shop’s core focus: pumping out plenty of espresso drinks and cold-brew coffees, all using Stumptown beans.

Home Tips: 10 Spooky Décor Ideas

Your front door is brimming with Halloween décor potential – all you need is a little imagination. Decorating your door requires a bit of creativity, especially if you’re hoping to forge a festive but sophisticated entry display. Here are ten somewhat spooky Halloween front door décor ideas that don’t sacrifice an inch of style.

1. Knock Knock

For a stylish, but a slightly spooky way to greet guests this season? This aged iron owl door knocker will be a real hoot with trick-or-treaters on October 31.

2. Spooky Greeters

A little lighting goes a long way when it comes to decorating your door to Halloween. This bat-clad light-up wreath is composed of rattan branches and features glowing LED lights for added eeriness.

3. Welcome to the Bat Cave

Out your current doormat for a festive style to welcome visitors on Halloween. This spiderweb-inspired half-round mat is mad of black coconut husk bristles so it’s every bit as durable as it is creepy.

4. Bat Attack

For a foolproof way to bring an unexpectedly spooky element to your front door this Halloween? These easy-to-use vinyl bats cling to the glass of windows and mirrors and don’t leave any residue behind.

5. Beetlejuice Inspired Banner

Your Halloween door décor to make a statement? This sleek-but-spooky banner will do the talking for you on your front door this season.

6. Pretty Pumpkins

Said Halloween décor can’t be chic has never seen these hand-punched ceramic pumpkins. Place a couple of these terra-cotta candleholders on your front porch to create a warm, ambient glow on All Hallows Eve.

7. Enter at Your Own Risk

Underestimate the impact of a creepy front door wreath on Halloween. This eye-catching metal wreath is decorated with dozens of individually crafted and welded black bats – with red eyes to boot.

8. Halloween Charm

For a wreath that captures the playfulness of Halloween? This nostalgic wreath made of natural air-dried maple leaves comes clad in vintage-inspired ghosts, candy corn and jack-o-lantern ornaments for added charms.

9. Go with the Classic

You can always count on pumpkin-shaped planters to make a festive statement at your front door on Halloween. These faux pumpkin planters are composed of weatherproof plastic so they’ll look great on your porch all season long.

10. The Witch is in the Details

Spooky scary goblins, spiders and bats aren’t your thing, keep your décor classy with a fun little message for visitors.

Weekend Events: October 11-13

The air is getting chilly, well…for Los Angeles, which means it is nearly sweater weather! Grab a hot pumpkin spice latte,  put on your favorite fall sweater and get ready for a fun filled weekend! We have a list of both indoor and outdoor events, festive and non festive. Scroll down and check out our favorite event picks to help you unwind after a long work week. Enjoy!

Friday October 11th, 2019

Pie Night at 189 by Dominique Ansel

Location: 189 by Dominique Ansel, Fairfax District

Time: 5:30pm-7:00pm or 7:30-9:00pm

The world famous all you can eat pie night is back! With the leaves rupturing into ruby reds and bright orange, Halloween decorations going up, and shorter days. What better time of year to ring in pie season than the crisp autumn days of October? Every ticket includes unlimited slices of 10 different pies, including sweet and savory options from Ansel his 189 by Dominique Ansel team and few other lauded chefs (Wolfgang Puck and BBQ champ Aaron Franklin). Did we mention that there will be ice cream?

“The Allure of Matter: Material Art from China”

Location: LACMA, Miracle Mile

 Time: 10am-7pm

Wu Hang, exhibition organizer from the University of Chicago’s Smart Museum has categorized the creators at the center of “The Allure of Matter”. The 21 featured artists all employ unconventional materials to create their works. For example, Zhang Huan used temple incense ash to form a landscape of field workers or Wang Jin’s imperial robes made from PVC. Unwind after a long week at work with some artistic inspiration from the far east!

Cinema Phantasmagoria

Location: Million Dollar Theater

 Time: Depends on show, see website

What screams Halloween more than Hocus Pocus, Halloween, or Beetlejuice? We’ve got just the right place for you to catching screenings of all your favorite Halloween flicks! Head over to Million Dollar Theater to unwind with one of your favorites. Guests are welcome to bring food from the neighboring Grand Central Market into the theater, and can embark on a backstage ghost tour. There is an early and late screening each evening, what’s more? Your single ticket gets you into both of them!

 

Saturday October 12th, 2019

Halloween Horror Nights

Location: Universal Studios

Time: 6:30pm-2:00am

In the mood to get spooked? Enter a world more terrifying than you can imagine at Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights, now with more mazes than ever. You can run but there’s no hiding from the screams of five new scare zones, each with spine tingling hair raising monsters and unimaginable horrors. Finish off the evening with watching out of this world moves from the Jabbawockeez.

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Location: Griffith Park OLD ZOO

Time: 7:00pm

Your pre-Halloween scare awaits! The Los Angeles Haunted Hayride presents: midnight falls, an eerie and mysterious village set in 1985 where time is at a halt and its always Halloween!  Newly reimagined attractions include Trick or Treat haunted maze, Roadkill Ranch open air maze and Midnight Falls town square!

 

All star comedy night @ The laugh factory 

Location: Laugh Factory

Time: 9:30pm-10:45pm

Got a favorite comedian from Hulu, HBO, Netflix or TV shows and films? Well grab a friend and go see all your favorites at Laugh Factory this Saturday night. Be sure to put your name on the guest list as it closes 15 minutes prior to show time! Saturday Nights line up features  Jay Davis, Dom Irrera, Dean Delray, Orny Adams, Gina Yashere.

Sunday October 13th, 2019

Maple BlocktoberFest 

Location: Maple Block Meat Co. Culver City

Time: 12pm-4pm

Enjoy an all you can eat BBQ, Biergarten featuring four craft breweries (Boulevard Brewing, Ommegang, Boomtown Brewery, and Shiner Beer) pumpkin decorating, music, cornhole, games, a raffle a bounce house for the kids; the ticket includes all of the above including unlimited craft beer tastings from all four breweries (selection of 14-16 beers).

Farmers Market Bakery Pop-Up

Location: Beverly Hills Farmers Market

Time: 10am-2pm

Cater to your sweet tooth after that brunch date. Come and taste some of the best French Pastries in LA! Anyone who RSVP gets a dollar off on anything they purchase from the vendors. Macarons, Eclairs, Opera Cakes, Mille-Feuille just to name a few! They’ve got all your favorite mouth watering pastries!

Sisters in Law at The Wallis 

Location: The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts

Time: 2:30pm & 7:30pm

This new production, based on Linda Hirshman’s New York Times bestseller, celebrates the friendship – and conflict — between two modern-day legends who became the United States Supreme Court’s first female justices. Sisters in law transcends party, religion, and culture with a tale of Democrat Ginsburg and Republican O’Connor, two polar opposites, as they grapple with matters of the law and personal belief.

Perfect Recipes for Fall

Halloween is right around the corner and we’ve got the perfect recipes for your holiday get together! Whether you are having a gathering for the kiddos, friends over for some cocktails, or a more formal three-course meal. With these mouthwatering recipes your guests will leave with a full belly and a smile on their face! We put together a list of appetizers, entrees, drinks, and desserts! Pick and choose or mix and match for a Halloween feast!

Appetizers:

7-Layer Spider Web Dip:

Start your Halloween fiesta with a flavorful chip dip. Perfect for everyone, including the kids! The black olives and sour cream give it that spooky Halloween look.

 Ingredients:
  • 1 can (15 ounces) refried beans
  • A single packet of taco seasoning mix
  • 1 cup mild or medium chunky salsa (make sure it’s not watery)
  • 3-4 green onions, diced
  • 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar or colby jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup sour cream, separated
  • 1/2 can drained olives, separated
  • 1 cup prepared guacamole
  • Tortilla Chips
  • 1 (10-12 inch) round plate, pie tin, or tart dish 
Instructions:  
  • 1 cup mild or medium chunky salsa (make sure it’s not watery)
  • A single packet of taco seasoning mix
  • 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar or Colby jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 can (15 ounces) refried beans
  • 3-4 green onions, diced
  • 1/2 can drained olives, separated
  • 1 cup prepared guacamole
  • Tortilla Chips
  • 1 cup sour cream, separated
  • A (10-12 inch) round plate, pie tin, or tart dish

 

 

Charcuterie Board:

Give your guests plenty of options to snack on while dinner is finishing up with a charcuterie board. Make it a colorful autumn mix with cheddar cheese, black grapes, red pepperoni slices, green celery, red meat slices, and a little pumpkin to give it that Halloween pop.

 Ingredients 
  • 8 oz Italian dry salami sliced
  • 4 oz uncured Salame di Parma
  • 6 oz smoked prosciutto
  • 4 oz sliced prosciutto
  • 8 oz Apricot Cherry Cranberry Goat’s Milk Cheese
  • 4 oz pepper jack cheese sliced
  • 8 oz traditional French Brie
  • 11 oz fig butter
  • 8 oz 1000 day hard gouda cheese
  • 5 oz sweet and spicy pecans
  • 4 oz pumpkin spice pumpkin seeds
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 Granny Smith apples sliced
  • 2 Honey Crisp apples sliced
  • 1 bunch Concord grapes
  • 1 bunch Champagne grapes
  • 6 fresh figs sliced in half
  • 10 oz Stone Ground Wheat Crackers
  • 2 11 oz French baguettes sliced
  • 11 oz naturally flavored candy corn
  • fresh lemon juice as needed
Instructions:

 Assemble on a 20 inch round platter.

If assembling ahead of time, brush apples lightly with lemon juice to avoid browning.

Pumpkin Soup:

The perfect way to warm up on a chilly autumn night is with of course, soup! Soups are the perfect appetizer, they are light and fill your tummy up just enough to save your big appetite for the main dish.

Ingredients
  • 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 leeks
  • 3 large Garlic cloves
  • 2 medium bell peppers
  • 2 1/4 lb. pumpkin
  • 1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh majoram
  • 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 1/4 c. frozen corn
  • 6 c. vegetable broth 
Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add leeks and cook until very soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for about 2 minutes. Stir in green peppers, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook until peppers soften, about 8 more minutes. Add the remaining ingredients and cook until pumpkin is tender, about 30 minutes.

Main Course:

Cider Scalloped Potatoes with Smoked Gouda:

Potatoes are the perfect comfort food. Take one scoop and place it on your plate, take a bite and enjoy the crispy outside and moist inside of the potato, the apple cider adds just the right amount of kick!

Ingredients:
  • 2 tbsp. unbleached all-purpose flour
  • 1 c. milk
  • 1 c. apple cider
  • 1/2 c. chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
  • tsp. ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 c. shredded smoked Gouda cheese
  • 1/2 c. shredded Jarlsberg cheese
  • 2 lb. Yukon Gold or Yellow Finn potatoes
Instructions:  

Adjust an oven rack to the center position and heat oven to 425 degrees F. Lightly butter a 10- by 2-inch round baking dish or a 8- by 12-inch rectangular baking pan; set aside.

Place flour in a medium-heavy saucepan; gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Whisk in cider, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, whisking constantly. Cook for 1 minute more and remove saucepan from heat; set aside.

In a small bowl, combine Gouda and Jarlsberg cheeses. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes, slightly overlapping, in prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the cheese mixture. Arrange remaining potatoes on top. Pour cider mixture over potatoes.

Bake 25 minutes. Remove baking dish from oven. Using a metal spatula, press down on potatoes. Sprinkle with remaining cheese mixture; return to oven. Bake until potatoes are fork-tender and the top is crusted and lightly browned — about 20 minutes more. Let stand 20 minutes before serving.

 

 

Pumpkin Baked Ziti With Sausage:

Ziti noodles, and baked? Sounds like a mouth watering combination. What’s more, sautéed in garlic, bay leaf, safe leaves, nutmeg, pumpkin puree, and red pepper flakes. Hungry yet? This rich medley of flavors is pretty amazing! Add sausage or go vegetarian!

Ingredients:
  • 1 pound ziti or rigatoni noodles, cooked to al dente
  • 1 pound sage sausage (can substitute for sweet Italian)
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 4 sage leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • pinch of cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (like chardonnay)
  • 1 cup vegetable stock
  • 15 oz can pumpkin puree
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350

Brown the sausage in a skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium high heat until the fat is rendered and the sausage is no longer pink. Transfer to a bowl and reserve.

In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and bay leaf. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the sage leaves, red pepper flakes, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt / pepper to taste. Cook one more minute.

Add the wine and cook until reduced by half. The heat should remain to medium high. Add the stock and stir in the pumpkin puree. Mix until everything is incorporated. The pumpkin will thicken the sauce.

Stir in the sausage and transfer to a large bowl with the pasta. Mix until combined.

Transfer back to your cast iron skillet (or a baking dish) and top with Parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-35 minutes until bubbly.

Garnish with sage and parsley. Fried sage is good too! Enjoy this with a nice glass of white wine, preferably the one you used earlier

 

 Tex-Mex Lasagna:

 This tasty entrée is a great follow up meal to the chip dip appetizer; following the same flow of flavors, this lasagna will send your tastebuds on a savory ride!

 Ingredients:
  •  1 pound of lean ground beef/chicken/vegetarian meat
  • A 1 cup of frozen diced onion red and green bell pepper, and celery
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt-free chipotle seasoning blend 1 (24-oz.) jar mild salsa
  • 1 (15-oz.) can dark red kidney beans, drained 1 (10-oz.) can enchilada sauce
  • 4 cups (16 oz.) shredded Mexican four-cheese blend Toppings: sour cream, chopped tomatoes
  • 1 (10-oz.) package frozen whole kernel corn, thawed 16 (6-inch) fajita-size corn tortillas
Instructions:

Cook first 5 ingredients in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, stirring often, 10 to 12 minutes or until vegetables are tender and beef crumbles and is no longer pink.

Stir in salsa and next 3 ingredients. Cook 5 to 10 minutes or until thoroughly heated.

Layer 1 cup beef mixture, 2 tortillas (overlapping edges), and 1/2 cup cheese in a lightly greased 7- x 5- x 1 1/2-inch baking dish. Repeat layers once. Repeat procedure with 3 additional 7- x 5- x 1 1/2-inch baking dishes. Cover dishes with nonstick aluminum foil.

Bake, covered, at 350° for 30 minutes; uncover and bake 5 more minutes or until bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Serve with desired toppings.

Note: To use a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch baking dish, prepare recipe through Step Omit 4 corn tortillas. Layer one-third beef mixture, 6 tortillas (overlapping edges), and 2 cups cheese. Repeat layers with one-third beef mixture, remaining 6 tortillas, remaining beef mixture, and ending with remaining 2 cups cheese. Bake, covered, at 350° for 40 minutes; uncover and bake 10 more minutes or until bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

 

Drinks:

Blood Orange Blackberry Rum Punch:

This delicious treat can serve as a dessert, with a tangy kick to finish off your meal if you don’t have much of a sweet tooth. The ruby red blood orange juice, and blackberries give it that dark spooky Halloween feel.

Ingredients:
  • 1 cup chilled blood orange juice
  • 4 (12 ounce) chilled natural blackberry sodas
  • 1 cup rum
  • ¼ cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 cup fresh blackberries
  • 1 blood orange thinly sliced
  • pansies to garnish (optional)
Instructions:

In a large pitcher filled with ice combine all of the ingredients. Stir gently to combine.

Add several blackberries and an orange slice to each glass and pour the punch into the glasses. Garnish with a pans if desired and serve immediately.

 

Spiced Warm Cider

What better way to ring in the holidays than with some warm cider on a cold evening? Garnish your drinks with an apple slice and a cinnamon stick.

 Ingredients:
  • 64 oz. apple cider
  • 6 chai tea bags
  • 2 Cinnamon sticks
  • 1 vanilla bean, split
  • 1/4 c. lemon juice
  • Apple sticks, for serving
  • Cinnamon sticks for serving
Instructions:

Combine apple cider, chai tea bags, cinnamon sticks, and vanilla bean in slow cooker. Cook on low 3 to 4 hours. Discard tea bags; stir in lemon juice. Serve warm with apple slices and cinnamon stick.

Good and Evil Potion

 If you’re in the mood for something cold, go with the good and evil potion. This cocktail is just as pretty as it is delicious!

Ingredients:
  • 1 oz. vodka
  • 1 oz. ApplePucker
  • 1 oz. Midori
  • 1 oz. triple sec
  • 1 handful ice
  • pineapple juice
  • Sierra Mist
  • lemon slice, for garnish
Instructions:

Combine vodka, ApplePucker, Midori, and Triple Sec in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake.

Pour the mixture into a cocktail glass, then top with pineapple juice and Sierra Mist. Garnish with a slice of lemon (optional).

Dessert:

Strawberry Ghosts:

Our most adorable treat on the list are these strawberry ghosts! This treat is as easy to bake as it is to eat! The kiddos will definitely have fun with these precious little treats!

Ingredients:
  • 2 c. strawberries
  • 1 1/2 c. white chocolate, melted
  • 1 tsp. coconut oil
  • 1/4 c. mini chocolate chips
  • 1 c. chocolate chips, melted
Instructions:

Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, combine melted white chocolate and coconut oil and stir until combined. Dip strawberries into white chocolate and place two mini chocolate chips on the top half of the strawberries for eyes. Place strawberries on prepared baking sheet and place in the refrigerator to harden, about 10 minutes.

Place melted chocolate chips in a ziploc bag and pipe mouths on the strawberries.

Let cool again in the refrigerator, 5 minutes. Serve.

Pumpkin Spice Cake:

 Nothing screams Halloween more than pumpkin spice, and in a cake?  Yes you read that correctly, a pumpkin spice cake! Alas, your wildest dreams have come to life!

Ingredients

Cake:

  • 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 15 oz. can pumpkin NOT pumpkin pie filling
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 and 3/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 3/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp cloves
  • 1/8 tsp ginger
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp real maple syrup

Frosting:

  • 6 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter
  • 2 tsp vanilla
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 tbsp real maple syrup
Instructions:

Prep: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9×13 or 10 x 15 pan with parchment paper or spray with nonstick spray.

Make the cake: In a large mixing bowl, mix eggs, sugar, oil, and pumpkin with electric mixer until just combined. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices and salt. Add dry mixture to the wet ingredients in 2 additions, mixing well after each. Add the TBSP of maple syrup and mix.

Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. (It may have some moist crumbs on it – but shouldn’t have wet batter). Let the cake cool completely before frosting.

Make the frosting: While the cake bakes, make the frosting. Soften cream cheese and butter together in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. (See note if browning the butter). Cream well with mixer. Add vanilla, powdered sugar, and maple syrup and mix until combined.

Serve + Store: Frost the cake when cool. Use the back of a dinner spoon to make swirls in the frosting, if desired. Store leftovers, covered tightly, in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Make ahead tips: The cake can be made a day in advance. Bake as directed, and let it cool completely. Cover well with plastic wrap/foil and leave at room temp. Frosting can be made a day ahead too – cover well and store in the fridge. Let frosting sit out for 10 minutes before frosting so it’s pliable. If the top of the cake tears a little when you try frosting it, cover it and chill in fridge for 15 minutes.

Spider Pumpkin Cake:

This delicious dessert could very well serve as your center piece as it could a delicious finish to your meal.

Ingredients:
  • 2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
  • 1 c. good-quality cocoa
  • 2 tbsp. good-quality cocoa
  • 1 tbsp. baking powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
  • 2 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 tsp. fresh-grated nutmeg
  • 3/4 c. buttermilk
  • 1 1/2 c. pumpkin purée
  • 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
  • stick unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 c. dark brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 c. granulated sugar
  • 5 large eggs
  • Orange Cream-Cheese Frosting
Instructions:

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly butter three 8-inch cake pans and fit each bottom with an 8-inch circle of parchment paper. Lightly butter the parchment paper. Set aside.

Sift the flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl and set aside. Combine the buttermilk, pumpkin, and vanilla in a medium bowl and set aside. Beat the butter and sugar together in a large bowl, with an electric mixer set on medium speed, until fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, until the mixture is smooth and light. Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk mixture, blending well after each addition.

Divide the batter among the pans and bake until a wooden skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean — about 35 minutes. Cool the cakes in the pan for 20 minutes. Remove cakes and cool. (For cupcakes: Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Place cupcake liners in standard cupcake tins and fill each with 1/4 cup of batter. Bake for 22 minutes.)

Trim each of the layers. Place one layer on a cake plate and top with one third of the frosting. Repeat with the second and third layers. (To ensure that the cake layers do not shift, cut three skewers to 1/4 inch shorter than the full height of the cake and insert them before icing the top layer.) Refrigerate until ready to serve.

                 

Out and About: Spring Bloom in SoCal

If you don’t know from the crazy amount of butterflies migrating through the city last week, spring is in bloom. With such is the arrival of California’s Wild Flowers. A site to see for those visiting the sunnier side of Cali, the wild flowers are experiencing a Super-Bloom this year.  An event not to be missed as this only occurs every 10-15 years. If you’re looking for the best way to really ring in the floral season, we have the City-Guide for you. Get some instagram-able photos and spend some time Out and About with Spring in SoCal.

From Arcata to San Diego the state flower is in full bloom and so is our guide of where to find them.

Death Valley National Park

Here is where you will find the full super bloom experience. The Mojave Desert is home to the wildflower event, although this years scarce rains did not result in its usual bloom, it’s still a sight to see.

Joshua Tree National Park

While in Death Valley, you can make your way to Joshua Tree which happens to be part of the Mojave. Blooms have already started here near the park’s south entrance and are expected to last longer thanks to cool temperatures.

Channel Islands National Park

These five islands that make up the park 25 miles off the coast of Santa Barbara coastline have a bounty of unique wildflower offerings. On Anacapa, Santa Barbara, and San Miguel islands, yellow coreopsis began blooming in January and will last through the month. The flowers are endemic to the Channel Islands but only found now on Santa Rosa Island.

Figueroa Mountain Recreation Area

In late March, the flanks of this summit (50 miles northwest of Santa Barbara) and nearby Grass Mountain begin bursting with a range of wildflowers. Hyacinth, shooting stars, buttercups, milkmaids, Johnny-jump-ups and poppies are just a few of the many flowers found here.

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve

At this nearly 1,800-acre reserve about 75 miles north of Los Angeles, are rolling hills blanketed in poppies. The season for these hillside foliage’s begins in April, lasting through early May. While the poppies are the showstopper here, keep your eye out for other wildflowers like California Aster and blue lupine. Since this area received several more inches of rain then usual in 2019, a super bloom is expected here too.

Pinnacles National Park

Around 8-miles south of San Jose is Pinnacles National Park. The wildflowers here can be seen in March, showing most in May. Depending on rainfall and temperature one would find a mix of milkmaids, shooting stars bush poppies and orchids.

Fun things to do in LA this March

There’s more to this month then March Madness. With so many fun activities in LA we thought you might need more then the weekend round-up. Read below for a collection of events happening throughout  the month and discover your inner Angeleno!

The Other Art Fair is Coming to Downtown L.A. (March 28-31)

The Other Art Fair Los Angeles returns to Magic Box at The Reef. The Fair takes place March 28-31 for the 3rd edition of its independent artist showcase. See a curated selection of over 140 independent artists and check out thousands of pieces for every budget in one space.  -> More information

The Torrance Cherry Blossom Cultural Festival (March 31)

The Torrance Cherry Blossom Cultural Festival comes to Columbia Park on March 31 for a unique blend of cultural performances with a fun variety of crafts by local artisans, centered around the blooming cherry blossom. -> More information

LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes Celebrates César Chávez Day (March 31)

This free celebration features a guest speaker from the Cesar Chavez Foundation, Xipe Totec Aztec dancers, live music by Lorenzo and the Carnales, plus art, garden, and culinary workshops -> More information

Courtesy of: WeLikeLA

LA Eats of the Week

With all the hustle and bustle in LA, narrowing down the best places to grab a bite can be tricky. Rather then making your routine stop at Panera Bread, why not try something new. LA has more restaurants then there are Bird scooters. With that in mind we’ve narrowed down the best places to nosh this week.

Breakfast is the most Important meal of the day!

Here’s Looking at You

Location: Koreatown

While most restaurants don’t put too much creativity into their brunch menus,  chef Jonathan Whitener is bringing fresh ideas and energy to the table. Take for instance his coconut waffle with koji, blueberries, ume (Japanese salty plums), and smoked maple syrup.This dish is far more interesting than it needs to be, going above and beyond the brunch-time status quo. Respect the waffle. 

Pikoh

Location: Los Angeles, CA

The menu weaves across the hours with a mix of rethought American classics. From breakfast bowls with activated charcoal or a smoked salmon tartine with yuzu cream cheese. To lighter lunches like grilled tuna salads or hummus and steamed mussels. For dinner there’s a full bar run by lead bartender Jamie Clark and surprises like an all-vegan beet-based bao, or a throwback filet mignon atop wasabi mashed potatoes. Throw in a daily happy hour, and it feels like Pikoh really can do it all.

Lately

Location: Chinatown

Lately’s menu is an all-day savory jaunt, with their breakfast sandwich sporting an organic fried egg, gouda, and oven roasted tomato on an English muffin. They also serve biscuits, a soft scrambled toast, a heaping avocado toast, salads, breakfast bowl, and a country-fried steak sandwich.

Power Lunch

Urban Radish

Location: Arts District

Urban Radish, the healthy-eating oasis in the Arts District is the perfect lunchtime spot. The outdoor grill is hidden behind a row of water-circulating vertical planters brimming with kale and other greens. Look through the foliage to find one man and a stack of tickets. Skirt steak, salmon, chicken; it all hits the hot metal and gets served over healthy grains and greens to a slew of daytime diners. Yum! 

Tacos 1986

Location: Koreatown

 LA’s best new taco stand has landed a highly visible location in Koreatown. Meaning it’s the best time to stop by during weekdays. Ask nicely for the chicharron de queso con hongos, paired with the stand’s excellent mushrooms. The best part about Tacos 1986 is its accessibility, placed right in the heart of Koreatown. Located at a crossroads for anyone traveling to Hollywood or Downtown, South LA, or Mid-City. What’s better than a taco pit stop? 

KazuNori

Location: Los Angeles

With open seating and rapid rounds of sushi hitting plates, KazuNori is the place to find some of the LA’s freshest fishes. It’s not uncommon to find a long line, which can be surprisingly short thanks to the restaurant’s efficiency. Choose from three to six hand rolls, which are made in plain view. The chefs transform the sea bream’s tender flesh and shiny silver skin into an elegant and perfect hand roll. Order a Sapporo and watch the chefs do their magic. 

What’s for dinner?

Tartine Bianco

Location: Los Angeles

Newly opened, Tartine Bianco is a hot ticket dining spot. The chicken liver toast is an early stand out and quite possibly the most thoughtful dish. The base of the matter, a crusty slice of the restaurant’s famous bread, sturdily held onto the pretty pink liver, as well as dollops of kumquat puree and blood orange segments. Balance comes among the varied components, hitting the brightest of notes with just enough richness to bring it home.

Jame Enoteca

Location: El Segundo

Jame Enoteca is well on its way to becoming a new kind of standard for the city of El Segundo. The corner strip mall option makes all of its pastas in-house and keeps a cozy but refined sort of vibe. Of particular noteworthiness (though all of the pastas seem to be pretty delicious) is the off-menu occasional lasagna with assorted foraged mushrooms. Pair it up with some vegetables to start and maybe a glass of wine, and be well on the way to a very full and very relaxed time in the South Bay. 

Atrium

Location: Los Feliz

The chefs at Atrium have whipped up pristine dishes with flavors that are unique and strong, just the way Angelenos like it. The beef carpaccio, inspired by the chef’s love of carne asada, is topped with crispy potato matchsticks, a thick salsa macha, and avocado crema. Those crunchy, salty, and savory layers makes for fun eating, but one plate might not be enough.

 

Weekend Events: February 8-10, 2019

As we settle into the shortest month of the year, our weekends shouldn’t be cut short on lack of fun. With so many activities to chose from in and around LA, fill your time with the events we’ve rounded up below!

Friday Feb. 8th, 2019

Groundlings & Groundlings, Attorneys at Law

Location: The Groundlings Theatre, Los Angeles

The legendary Groundlings Theatre troupe presents its latest and greatest main stage show. It’s an evening of sketches and some improvisation, always original and always hilarious. Groundlings & Groundlings, Attorneys At Law Opening Night Party is Friday, February 8th. Tickets are $50 and include two drink tickets (specialty cocktails, beer, and wine), catering from The Darkroom, and an awesome show! This event is 21 and over only. ID required.

Click here for more info!

One Love Cali Reggae Festival

Location: Queen Mary, Long Beach

Lookin’ to groove right into 2019? One Love Cali Reggae Festival returns to the Queen Mary Events Park in Long Beach on February 8 – 10 for its fourth annual music fest with all of your favorite bands and artists. This three-day festival boasts a long line-up of musicians. Performers include Slightly Stoopid, Rebelution, Sublime with Rome, Dirty Heads, and more. Attendees can also enjoy nightly after parties on the water with Don Carlos on Friday, February 8, Collie Buddz on Saturday, February 9 and Fiji on Sunday, February 10.

Click here for more info!

The Pan African Film Festival

Michael Ealy, Joy Bryant, Regina Hall, producer Will Packer and Kevin Hart arrive at the Pan African Film & Arts Festival Premiere of Screen Gems’ “About Last Night”.

Location: Cinemark Rave 15 Theatres, Baldwin Hills

The Pan African Film Festival (PAFF) returns to Los Angeles February 7-18. Now in its 27th year, the 12-day festival is the largest black film festival in America. PAFF’s legacy is evidenced by the success of storytellers and talent who’ve contributed works to the festival such as Will Packer, Kevin Hart, Jamie Foxx, Ryan Coogler, Berry Jenkins, Taraji P. Henson, Ava Duvernay, and countless others. This year’s program features a robust schedule including the Filmmakers Brunch, ARTFest, PAFF Institute Panels, StudentFest, LOL Comedy Series, Children’s Fest, SpokenWord Fest, Seniors’ Connection and much more.

Click here for more info!

Saturday Feb. 9th, 2019

Hammer Museum: Winter Exhibition Opening Night

Location: The Hammer Museum, Westwood

Come help the Hammer Museum celebrate their newest winter exhibitions with an opening-night party on February 9. From 8 to 11 p.m., attendees can view these brand-new exhibits during late-night hours, enjoy music by DJ Nubar and DJ ShyBoy from MaDonna Summer and Bootie LA/SF. See works by Los Angeles-based artist and view are newly acquired works. There will be a cash bar and The Original Grilled Cheese food truck will be parked on Lindbrook Drive if you want to grab a bite. As always, Hammer Museum events are free until they reach capacity.

Click here for more info!

120th Golden Dragon Parade

Location: Chinatown, DTLA

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce presents the 120th Golden Dragon Parade along North Broadway in Chinatown on February 9. The celebration centers around the Lunar New Year, which is one of the biggest holidays of the year for nearly 1.5 million persons of Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese descent in Southern California. Gathering thousands of individuals, this parade will include almost two dozen floats, multiple marching bands, government officials, various dignitaries, entertainers, local business leaders and cultural groups. The overarching theme of the parade is ethnic diversity, Chinese culture and exposure to Chinese-American businesses.

Click here for more info!

Noah’s Ark After Dark Pajama Party

Location: Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles

Spend an evening with your favorite animal friends after hours aboard Noah’s Ark. Wear your favorite PJs (adults, too!) and play with puppets, tell stories, make new friends, and celebrate the winter. Enjoy a tasty dinner together and have loads of fun!

Click here for more info!

Winter Sounds Weho: Zetz Klezmer Ensemble

Location:City Council Chambers (at the West Hollywood Library) 

The City of West Hollywood’s Arts Division and the West Hollywood Library present the 2018-19 Winter Sounds FREE Indoor Concert Series. Zetz Klezmer is a delightful ensemble whose show weaves together music, stories, history, educational demos, and jokes. Their original and traditional music is rooted in klezmer traditions of European Jews, but also fuses sounds from across the globe.

Click here for more info!

Sunday Feb. 10th, 2019

Second Annual Adam’s Forge

Location: Audubon Center at Debs Park, Los Angeles

On Sunday, February 10 the second annual Forge Festival celebrates the art of blacksmithing through live demonstrations, hands-on activities, musical performances, tomahawk throwing, artisan metal and craft marketplace and other family-friendly activities. Hosted by Adam’s Forge, a blacksmithing school founded 2002, The Forge Festival takes place from noon to 4 p.m. at the and tickets are $25 (children 12 and under are free).

Click here for more info!

From Rescue to Runway

Location: Annenberg Petspace, Los Angeles

Watch Healthy Spot’s Grooming team go paw-to-paw to transform some of Annenberg PetSpace‘s adoptable pets in hopes of helping them find their furever homes. This Japanese style grooming competition will be judged by celebrity guest, Kenichi Nagase! Kenichi is a renowned Japanese Pet Grooming Stylist, recently featured in the Netflix docuseries, Dogs. Your pet is more than welcomed to join you! Stop by and enjoy: A friendly grooming competition, Q&A with Japanese Style Grooming experts, Kenichi NagaseJess Ronaand Patricia Sugihara, Adoptable pets from Annenberg PetSpace, Treats and takeaways, Raffle prizes and giveaways!

Click here for more info!

A Faery Hunt: Valentine Faery Tea Party

Location: Tarzana Community and Cultural Center, Tarzana

Treat your little ones to A Fairy Tea Party! Each table will be hosted by one of A Faery Hunt’s charming faeries. English Tea Sandwiches, shortbread cookies, faery fruit and veggies, and Fairy Tea will be served; catered by their amazing Fairy Caterer. Come dressed in your faery; prince or princess finest attire. Enjoy circle-time story time with the faeries, music, dancing, and surprises. Space is limited for the Fairy Tea Party, so get your tickets now for this catered event.

Click here for more info!

Dance Sunday with Debbie Allen & Friends

Location: The Wallis Annenberg Center for Performing Arts

Emmy Award-winner Debbie Allen returns with the 4th season of FREE, outdoor dance events for the whole family. This weekends event will feature BREAK THE FLOOR: HIP HOP! An introduction to Hip-Hop class with a fun and energetic routine taught by Chantel Heath. 

Click here for more info!