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Luxury Decor Ideas for VDay | Home Tips

February, the month of love, presents a perfect opportunity for luxury homeowners to infuse a romantic ambiance into their living spaces. With VDay at its heart, it’s the ideal time to consider elegant home makeovers that blend romance with opulence.

Creating an Intimate Setting with Lighting

Lighting can transform any space into a romantic retreat. Elevate the mood by adding dimmer controls that let you fine-tune the atmosphere to your liking. Opt for opulent chandeliers with crystal detailing to bring a hint of glamour, or use floor lamps to cast a warm, flattering glow in cozy nooks. And when it comes to setting the tone for a special dinner, candlelight is always a timeless favorite—try sculptural candleholders or softly scented candles for an added layer of allure.

Luxurious Textiles for a Sensual Touch

Bring in luxurious textures to elevate both comfort and style. Think velvet accent pillows, smooth silk bedding, and crisp Egyptian cotton sheets to give your bedroom a dreamy, indulgent feel. In the living room, a cashmere throw tossed over the couch invites warm, laid-back nights with a touch of romance.

Romantic Color Palettes

Color sets the tone for any room, and choosing the right palette can instantly infuse your space with romance. Shades like blush pink, crimson, and plum bring warmth and sensuality without overwhelming the design. Use them thoughtfully; whether through an accent wall, statement art, or a vase of fresh blooms, to create a space that feels both intimate and refined. The key is balancing bold tones with your home’s existing upscale vibe.

Art and Decor for Love

Art has a quiet way of speaking volumes, especially when it comes to creating a romantic ambiance. Opt for pieces that stir emotion, whether it’s a sultry abstract, a timeless sculpture, or a dreamy black-and-white photograph. These visual elements can anchor the mood of a room with grace and intention. For an extra layer of allure, display fresh florals in sculptural vases, long-stemmed roses or exotic blooms always make a statement without saying a word.

Creating a Spa-Like Bathroom Experience

Turn your bathroom into a romantic, spa-worthy escape just in time for Valentine’s Day. Think beyond the basics, a freestanding soaking tub sets the scene, while plush robes and aromatic bath oils infuse the space with calm and indulgence. Dim the lights, queue up some soft music, and add a little decadence with champagne on ice and a tray of chocolates nearby. It’s the kind of luxury retreat you won’t need to leave the house for.

Outdoor Spaces: Setting for Romance under the Stars

Show your outdoor spaces a little love this Valentine’s Day. A thoughtfully styled patio, balcony, or garden can set the scene for an unforgettable evening. Cozy seating, twinkling string lights, and the soft glow of a fire pit come together to create a dreamy, starlit ambiance. Add a faux fur throw and a couple of glasses of red, and suddenly your backyard feels like a five-star retreat.

Ultimately, designing a romantic home for Valentine’s Day is all about intention and atmosphere. Whether it’s with mood-setting lighting, indulgent fabrics, a rich, warm color scheme, or art that speaks to the heart, small touches go a long way. This February, turn your space into a celebration of love, comfort, and luxury.

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Economic Update | Month Ending January 31, 2026

Fed leaves rates unchanged – Trump nominated a new Fed Chairman – The Federal Reserve ended its January Open Market Committee Meeting (FOMC) on Wednesday and elected to leave interest rates unchanged. While many investors were not surprised due to comments from Fed Chairman Powell and other Fed members, it was a reverse in direction from a ¼% rate drop at its previous three meetings. Powell stated after the meeting that inflation remained elevated but that they felt that it was tariff-related, not demand-driven, an indication that he was not feeling that the economy was heating up. He also said that they felt the labor market was stabilizing. It had suffered its worst year in job gains and the highest unemployment rate since COVID. On Friday, President Trump nominated Kevin Warsh to succeed Jerome Powell as the next Fed Chairman. Powell’s term ends in May.

Inflation – Consumer prices show inflation levels remained unchanged in December – The December Consumer Price Index (CPI) was released this week. It showed that consumer prices rose 2.7% from one year ago in December. This was slightly higher than analysts’ expectations of a 2.6% annual increase. Core CPI, which excludes volatile goods like food and energy, rose 2.6% on an annualized basis. This was below the 2.7% increase experts had forecasted.

Job growth stalled and the unemployment rate rose in 2025 – December Jobs report shows hiring was sluggish while the unemployment rate dipped. Recent labor market data point to a continued moderation in U.S. hiring activity. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 50,000 new jobs were added in December. That was below the analyst’s expectations of 70,000. Revisions to the prior two months reduced reported job gains by a combined 76,000. As a result, average monthly job growth for 2025 stands at 49,000, down from 168,000 in 2024, and the three-month average has turned modestly negative. For the year employers added just 584,000 jobs last year, down from 2.2 million new jobs in 2024, marking its worst non-recession year of job growth since 2003. At the same time, the unemployment rate dropped to 4.4% in December, down from a revised 4.5% in November. That is better than economists’ expectations of 4.5% and below the long-term historical average of approximately 5.5%. Despite the slowdown in hiring, average hourly earnings rose 3.8% compared to one year ago.

The graph below shows the CPI rate since 2021

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the month at 48,892.47, up 1.7% from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the month at 6,939.03, up 1.4% from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. The NASDAQ closed at 23,461.82, up 0.9% from 23,241.99 at the end of December.

U.S. Treasury Bond Yields – The 10-year U.S. Treasury bond yield closed the month at 4.26%, up from 4.18% on December 31, 2025. The 30-year US treasury bond yield ended the month at 4.87%, up from 4.84% on Dec. 31, 2025. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow Treasury bond yields.

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of December 29, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.10%, down from 6.15% on December 31, 2025. The 15-year fixed was 5.49%, up from 5.44% on December 31, 2025.

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

Home sales figures are released on the third week of the month for the previous month from the National Association of Realtors and the California Association of Realtors. Here is a summary of the December existing home sales reports.

U.S. existing-home sales – December 2025 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 4.35 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in November, up 5.1% from the number of homes sold in November and up 1.4% from the number of homes sold last December. The median price paid for a home sold in the U.S. in November was $404,400, down slightly from $409,200 in November, but up 0.4% from $403,700 one year ago.

California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 288,200 on an annualized basis in December, up 2% from a revised 282,490 last December. The statewide median price paid for a home was $850,680 in December, down 0.4% from $855,680 in November. The statewide median price peaked at $910,160 in April before falling steadily each month to end the year down 7% from its peak. Year-over-year, the median price dropped 1.3% from $861,020 on December 31, 2024.

The graph below shows CAR sales data by county for Southern California.

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Economic Update | Week Ending January 31, 2026

Weekly Economic Update; WEU

Fed leaves rates unchanged – Trump nominated a new Fed Chairman – The Federal Reserve ended its January Open Market Committee Meeting (FOMC) on Wednesday and elected to leave interest rates unchanged. While many investors were not surprised due to comments from Fed Chairman Powell and other Fed members, it was a reversal in direction from a ¼% rate drop at its previous three meetings. Powell stated after the meeting that inflation remained elevated but that they felt that it was tariff-related, not demand-driven, an indication that he was not feeling that the economy was heating up. He also said that they felt the labor market was stabilizing. It had suffered its worst year in job gains and the highest unemployment rate since COVID. On Friday, President Trump nominated Kevin Warsh to succeed Jerome Powell as the next Fed Chairman. Powell’s term ends in May.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 48,892.47, down 0.4% from 49,098.71 last week. It is already up 1.7% from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the week at 6,939.03, up 0.3% from 6,915.71 last week. The S&P is up 1.4% from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. The Nasdaq closed the week at 23,461.82, down 0.2% from 23,501.24 last week. It is up 0.9% from 23,241.99 on December 31, 2024.

The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.26%, up slightly from 4.24% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.87%, up from 4.82% 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 January 29, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.1%, almost unchanged from 6.09% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.49%, up from 5.38% last week.

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

Have a Great Weekend!

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Mortgage Rate Update | January 29, 2026

MRU

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 January 29, 2026 were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.1%, almost unchanged from 6.09% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.49 %, up from 5.38% last week.

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

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From Windows 11 to Optimus Gen 3 and More! | Tech News

Wind down the week with the latest news from the world of tech and media. We’re covering the top headlines from Windows 11 to Optimus Gen 3 and more in this week’s blog. Check it out and stay connected!

Spotify expands group chats so you can share music with a crew

Spotify rolled out group chats that let up to 10 friends and family members talk about songs, podcasts, and playlists inside the app, extending the direct-message feature it launched last year. The group experience ties into Spotify activity signals — you can only add people you’ve interacted with through features like Collaborative Playlists or Jam sessions — which keeps the chats focused on actual listening relationships rather than random DMs. Messaging remains available to free and premium users, which should help social discovery without putting a paywall around conversation. For music marketers and creators, group threads create a cozy place to seed releases and fan moments without leaving the streaming context. Expect more social glue-like listening activity and shared queue tools as Spotify leans into in-app connection rather than external chat. 

ROGBid’s Fusion 2-in-1 slips a ring and a watch into one fitness gadget

ROGBid unveiled the Fusion, a hybrid that doubles as a smart ring and a wristwatch, packing heart-rate monitoring, activity, and sleep tracking into a modular form factor aimed at people who want both subtle wearables and glanceable displays. The novelty here is the multi-form approach — you can wear the ring for discreet biometric sensing or snap it into a wrist module for a more traditional watch UI and notifications. Early hands-on notes call out decent sensor performance for the category, though battery and durability under continuous wear are always the practical tests. If the Fusion nails user comfort and seamless mode switching, it could appeal to folks who oscillate between jewelry-style discretion and smartwatch practicality. It’s a reminder that the wearables category still has room for playful engineering, not just iterative screens. 

PopSockets folds a wallet into its kickstand — MagSafe ready and slim

PopSockets added the Kick Out PopWallet Grip, a folding wallet built into its signature stand, with MagSafe compatibility and a slimmer profile for people who want one less accessory bulking up their pocket. The new design balances everyday convenience — card storage plus a stable phone prop — with compatibility for modern magnetic ecosystems, and it’s clearly targeted at practical flat-lay and influencer photo moments. It’s not trying to be luggage-grade security; it’s about low-friction carry and neat staging for social content. For product teams, it’s a quiet reminder that simple hardware combos still find demand when they solve a minor but persistent friction (pocket bulk, shaky TikTok filming). Expect the usual seasonal color drops and collabs that keep conversion windows lively. 

Windows 11 hits 1 billion users faster than Windows 10 — platform momentum matters

Microsoft announced that Windows 11 has reached roughly 1 billion users, hitting the milestone faster than Windows 10 did and underscoring the OS’s steady enterprise and consumer traction since launch. The figure bundles active devices across consumer PCs, enterprise installs, and various OEM deployments — a reminder that platform adoption still moves markets for software, security, and peripheral makers. For IT teams, the milestone solidifies Windows 11 as the de facto baseline for new deployments, driving tooling and app compatibility decisions. Investors and partners read this as validation of Microsoft’s cadence: regular feature updates, Copilot integration, and enterprise tooling have kept the upgrade cycle alive. While milestones don’t erase fragmentation, they do shape where developers and vendors prioritize support. 

Tesla says production-ready Optimus Gen 3 is arriving — robot ambitions accelerate

Tesla confirmed that Optimus Gen 3 hardware is nearing production readiness. Likewise, the news on Optimus Gen 3 signals an aggressive push to scale humanoid-robot capabilities next year. Of course, the news from Tesla ties its Optimus Gen 3 robot progress to its broader automation roadmap. The update underscores Tesla’s shift from proof-of-concept demos to engineering cadence aimed at manufacturability and cost reduction. Tesla’s Optimus Gen 3 angle is familiar: iterate fast, move into constrained, high-value deployments, and then broaden. For logistics and manufacturing teams, even early, reliable robot helpers like the Optimus could change workflows. Additionally, for the public, Optimus still sits at the intersection of hype and real engineering. Watch the next quarterly updates for concrete fleet and customer pilots that prove robustness beyond staged demos. 

Snap spins off its smart-glasses group into a separate company to move faster

Snap announced it’s turning its AR/Specs team into a standalone subsidiary, a structural move intended to give the group a startup-like focus while keeping strategic alignment with Snap’s broader ecosystem. The subsidiary model aims to accelerate product cycles and partnerships for smart glasses, signaling Snap wants to operate the unit with distinct commercial strategies and potential external collaborations or investments. For AR developers and hardware partners, an independent entity could mean clearer APIs, dedicated roadmaps, and bespoke integration deals. The shift also reflects how major platforms are experimenting with organizational forms to keep hardware innovation nimble without dragging legacy product teams into long cycles. If execution is clean, the split could yield faster iterations and clearer go-to-market plays for on-face computing. 

Bluesky teases a 2026 roadmap of live features, richer feeds, and events

Bluesky laid out a 2026 roadmap that includes “live” features, enhanced feed mechanics, and event integrations designed to make the network feel more immediate and discovery-driven. The plan focuses on reducing friction for creators and communities to host live interactions and to surface timely content without mimicking other platforms’ exact formulas. For users, the proposal promises better ways to follow conversations and attend virtual events inside the app; for developers, it hints at new primitives for real-time publishing and moderation. Bluesky’s approach emphasizes privacy and decentralization while still chasing the engagement patterns that make social apps sticky. The year ahead will test whether these features can scale while preserving the network’s core ethos and governance guardrails.

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Weekend Events | January 30 – February 1, 2026

With February coming to a close, there is no better way to wrap up the weekend than with local fun. From Dine L.A. to Lunar New Year celebrations, and more, we have you covered. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood from January 30 through February 1.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | January 30 – February 1 

Griffith Park Run

When: February 1, 2026 

Where: Griffith Park

What: Lace up for a scenic Sunday in Griffith Park at this all-levels charity run benefiting the Los Angeles Parks Foundation. Choose between a 5K or a half-marathon; the former is flat, shady, and dog-friendly for the first time ever, while the latter winds past the Autry Museum and merry-go-round along the park’s major trails. Post-race perks include local food trucks and a vendor village with fun sampling booths.

Miyawaki Forest at Gloria Molina Grand Park

When: January 31 

Where: DTLA

What: Help give downtown L.A. a lush new legacy by planting the city’s first urban Miyawaki forest at Gloria Molina Grand Park this weekend. This fast-growing, biodiversity-boosting forest, based on a Japanese planting method, will take root with 200 native trees and plants in Block Two of the park. The day kicks off with an Aztec land blessing by Yankuititl, followed by free planting demos, seedball-making, native plant giveaways, and a DJ set by Hello Stranger to keep the energy up.

 

Dine L.A. Restaurant Week

Where: Various locations

When: Until February 6 

What: Dine L.A.’s winter edition returns January 23 through February 6, bringing two weeks of special prix-fixe menus from hundreds of restaurants across the city. It’s the perfect excuse to revisit local favorites or finally snag a table at some of L.A.’s most buzzed-about spots, all at more wallet-friendly prices. This season shines a spotlight on the San Fernando Valley and welcomes exciting newcomers from across the county.

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | January 30 – February 1 

The Makers Hive Market

When: February 1 

Where: Santa Monica

What: Knock out your Valentine’s or Galentine’s Day shopping early at this festive open-air market at Santa Monica Place. Browse handmade goods, vintage treasures, and delicious treats from dozens of local artisans—all in a family- and pet-friendly setting. Bonus fun: personalize your day with interactive workshops like DIY perfume-making, pot painting, or a hilariously charming “bad portrait” sketch.

Lunar New Year Celebration at Disney California Adventure

When: Until February 22 

Where: Anaheim 

What: Celebrate the Year of the Horse at Disney California Adventure with a month-long Lunar New Year festival filled with flavor, folklore, and fanfare. Kids can snap pics with Mulan, Mushu, and the Disney crew in their festive best, while grown-ups can graze through market stalls offering Asian-inspired bites from China, Korea, and Vietnam. Don’t miss the vibrant daytime procession led by Mulan or the evening’s “Hurry Home” water show that brings Lunar New Year wishes to life just before World of Color begins.

Astra Lumina

When: Until January 31, 2026

Where: Rancho Palos Verdes

What: Wander through a glowing garden of stars at South Coast Botanic Garden’s year-end light show, where nine celestial-themed installations illuminate a dreamy Palos Verdes trail. While it’s not a traditional holiday display, the experience is both mesmerizing and meditative, especially with optional pre-walk breathwork classes offered on select nights. Expect a tranquil, wellness-inspired spin on L.A.’s after-dark botanical trend.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | January 30 – February 1  

Motown Skate Night

Where: Moonlight Rollerway, Inc. | 5110 San Fernando Road, Glendale

When: January 31 

What: Lace up your skates and get ready to groove at Motown Skate Night, happening Saturday from 8 PM to 11 PM. This all-ages event invites you to roll to the legendary sounds of The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, and more. Admission covers entry only, and skate rentals will be available at the door for $8.

Succulent Terrarium Workshop

When: January 31 

Where: Tansy | 2120 West Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank

What: Create your own mini indoor garden at this hands-on succulent terrarium workshop, perfect for all ages. An expert instructor will guide you step-by-step as you layer stones, moss, sand, and soil to build a personalized terrarium using provided plants and materials. Just bring your creativity—everything else is included.

Superstar Saturdays W/ Tom Dreesen

When: January 31 

Where: Flappers Comedy Club And Restaurant | 102 E Magnolia Blvd, Burbank

What: Toast the end of Prohibition in style with a night of food, drinks, laughs, and show-stopping entertainment. This lively celebration features celebrity guests, top headliners, and rising stars for a night that’s equal parts glitz and giggles.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | January 30 – February 1 

Lunar New Year Celebration at the Stagecoach Inn Museum

When: January 31 

Where: Stagecoach Inn Museum | 51 S Ventu Park Rd, Newbury Park

What: Celebrate Lunar New Year 2026 with an afternoon of cultural performances and interactive activities, hosted by the Phoenix Family Performing Arts Collaborative. Enjoy a live dance performance by the Phoenix Dance Collective, plus Chinese tea tastings, calligraphy, fan painting, origami, and a red envelope giveaway. A festive museum exhibit of Chinese costumes and artifacts will also be on display through February 14.

Free Sing-Along Hosted by Los Robles Children’s Choir

When: January 31 

Where: 1744 Donlon St, Ventura

What: Sing your heart out with Los Robles Children’s Choir at a series of free, family-friendly sing-alongs led by a professional song leader and pianist. No experience needed—just bring your voice and good vibes! Events take place on Saturdays and Sundays across Ventura County through February, with RSVPs available on Eventbrite.

Humanitarians on the Front Line In Ukraine Presentation

When: February 1 

Where: 1600 E Hillcrest Dr, Thousand Oaks

What: Get an up-to-date look at humanitarian efforts in Ukraine with Dave Nonnemacher of New Horizons-USA, who recently returned from his eighth mission. He’ll share stories and updates from the front line during a talk at Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks on Sunday, February 1, at 10:30 AM.

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Elegant Local Fine Dining | L.A. Eats

Experience refined dining at its finest with Los Angeles’ array of upscale restaurants. From Michelin-starred gems to iconic establishments led by celebrated chefs, the city offers no shortage of exceptional culinary destinations. Treat yourself to a night of luxury and savor the best of LA’s fine dining scene.

Linden

Location: 5936 W Sunset Blvd (at Tamarind Ave), Los Angeles, CA 90028

Linden, an elegant fine dining destination, channels chef Jonathan Harris’s New York upbringing into an inventive menu that reflects the interplay of Caribbean, Italian, and Jewish flavors. The standout wagyu pie, bursting with oxtail and rich gravy beneath a flaky “patty” pastry, is a nod to classic New York street food, while prawns and polenta luxuriate in a spicy arrabbiata cream. Complementing the menu are cleverly named cocktails like the Lemon Ting and L.I.R.R., reinforcing Linden’s East Coast roots. But the energy is pure LA: lush greenery drapes from the ceiling, a stylish crowd fills the room, and the night often ends with a visit to its chopped cheese sister restaurant next door for a final bite of the Big Apple in the heart of Hollywood.

Antico Nuovo

Location: 4653 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004

Tucked into an unassuming strip mall near Larchmont, Chad Colby’s Antico Nuovo serves some of LA’s most refined takes on rustic Italian cuisine. The menu emphasizes California’s seasonal bounty through dishes like housemade pasta, grilled meats, and a “pane” section that celebrates robust focaccia with indulgent toppings—think whipped ricotta with pistachio pesto or marinated anchovies. The dimly lit, windowless dining room only adds to the cozy allure, drawing well-heeled diners eager to explore an impeccable wine list and finish their meal with a scoop of house-churned ice cream.

San Laurel

Location: 100 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Perched on the 10th floor of Conrad Los Angeles, José Andrés’ San Laurel delivers a masterful take on Spanish cuisine in an elegant, high-ceilinged space. The elegant dining menu takes inspiration from Andrés’ celebrated work at The Bazaar, presenting sophisticated yet approachable dishes like gambas al ajillo, hiramasa crudo with buttermilk leche de tigre, and charred asparagus with romesco. Desserts push the envelope, featuring whimsical creations such as dehydrated chocolate mousse paired with refreshing mint ice cream.

Kato Restaurant

Location: 777 S Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

What started as a modest Taiwanese tasting menu in a West LA strip mall has evolved into one of Downtown LA’s most sought-after fine dining experiences. Chef Jon Yao’s Kato offers a refined yet soulful interpretation of Taiwanese cuisine, weaving intricate flavors into an ever-evolving menu. Delicacies like caviar-studded Dungeness crab with Chinese celery and smoky grilled freshwater eel over seaweed fried rice showcase Yao’s meticulous approach. Though prices have doubled since its original location, the expanded menu, and polished service make this iteration of Kato a true destination, further elevated by an expertly curated wine list and creative cocktail program.

Baroo

Location: 905 East 2nd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012

After years away from the LA fine dining scene, chef Kwang Uh has resurrected his visionary fermentation-focused restaurant, Baroo, in the Arts District. This new iteration, now a tasting menu restaurant with a curated selection of natural wines, cocktails, and traditional Korean sul, brings a more polished yet still deeply experimental approach. While Buddhist philosophy informs the structure of the menu, the experience remains subtle and artful rather than overtly conceptual. Courses, which have included battered skate wing wrapped in lettuce with seabuckthorn and pork collar served alongside a goulash jjigae, offer a poetic exploration of seasonality and balance. At $115 per person, Baroo’s revival marks its long-overdue place at the forefront of LA’s modern Korean movement.

Damian

Location: 2132 E 7th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Dining at Damian, Enrique Olvera’s celebrated Arts District restaurant, feels like stepping into an elegant Mexico City hideaway. The elegant dining interior blends industrial elements with lush greenery, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere where the bar stretches along one wall and intimate booths line the other. The menu offers refined takes on Mexican flavors, with highlights like duck carnitas and a crisp Caesar tostada. A must-order guacamole, served with fresh herbs and crispy tostadas, sets the stage for a meal that seamlessly fuses tradition with modern technique.

Orla Santa Monica

Location: 1700 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, California 90401

Michael Mina’s contemporary Egyptian restaurant, once a Mandalay Bay staple in Las Vegas, now finds a new home at the luxurious Regent Santa Monica Beach hotel. Mina, a renowned fine dining chef, presents a menu that pays homage to his Egyptian and Greek roots with elevated takes on comforting classics—think crispy falafel topped with bigeye tuna, delicate gnudi paired with lamb meatballs, and a mixed kebab platter featuring filet mignon, lamb kofta, and chicken dolmas. Unlike its opulent Vegas counterpart, Orla’s Santa Monica location, designed by AvroKO, is bathed in natural light and offers nearly unobstructed ocean views from its outer tables. Inside, plush tan leather banquettes set the stage for a refined yet inviting fine dining experience.

Mélisse Restaurant

Location: 1104 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Chef Josiah Citrin and chef de cuisine Ken Takayama orchestrate an exquisite elegant dining experience at this two-Michelin-starred institution. With just 14 seats, the intimate dining room hosts an eight-course, two-and-a-half-hour journey featuring intricate dishes such as a seaweed tart topped with smoked salmon and roe, melt-in-your-mouth A5 wagyu with morels and pickled ramps, and more. Priced at $399 per guest, the experience is as exclusive as it is indulgent. Reservations can be secured through OpenTable.

Seline

Location: 3110 Main St Ste 132 (Marine St), Santa Monica, CA 90405

Chef Dave Beran’s latest venture, Seline, builds on the legacy of his acclaimed restaurant Dialogue, offering a deeply immersive tasting menu experience in Santa Monica. Opened in December 2024, Seline is named after his daughter, Harvest Moon, and its moody, celestial-inspired dining room is punctuated by large-scale vibrant artwork. The nearly open-concept kitchen allows diners to witness the culinary artistry firsthand, with a seasonal menu that weaves a narrative—winter saw the kitchen experimenting with squash across multiple courses. Thoughtful wine and non-alcoholic pairings complement each dish, while service is impressively intuitive, predicting guests’ needs with precision. This is a dining experience that lingers in memory, an occasion well worth the price of admission.

Mori Nozomi

Location: 11500 West Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90064

Chef Nozomi Mori has carved out a distinct niche with her namesake counter. Mori employs techniques inspired by the Japanese tea ceremony, bringing an unmatched level of refinement to her sushi. Each bite reflects her meticulous approach to rice seasoning and seafood selection. Likewise, she highlights seasonal delicacies like hairy crab and bluefin tuna sourced from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market. The meal, expertly executed by Mori and her all-female team, concludes with matcha tea and delicate, handmade wagashi. At $250 per person, Mori Nozomi remains a relative bargain compared to other top-tier omakase spots in LA, where prices often surpass $400.

N/Naka

Location: 3455 Overland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90034

Chefs Niki Nakayama and Carole Iida-Nakayama craft a 13-course modern kaiseki menu that effortlessly bridges tradition and innovation. The meal evolves with the seasons, each course reflecting the chef’s artistry while staying true to kaiseki principles. The experience, spanning three meticulously paced hours, leaves guests feeling indulged yet never overwhelmed. A recent renovation has transformed the dining room into an elegant yet understated space. Likewise, it now features curved cement accents and warm wooden cabinetry, further elevating the intimate atmosphere.

Marea

Location: 430 North Camden Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

New York’s beloved Marea has seamlessly translated its refined coastal Italian menu to Beverly Hills. Guests sip wine in the elegant dining room, settling into curved wood banquettes. Savoring dishes like caviar with airy gougères, oysters on the half-shell, and bruschetta crowned with a generous dollop of roe. Larger plates feature ricotta-stuffed ravioli and a showstopping 40-ounce tomahawk steak. For dessert, lemon ricotta bomboloni and silky tiramisu make a fitting finale.

Somni

Location: 1045 Nemo Street, West Hollywood, CA 90069

After much anticipation, chef Aitor Zabala has unveiled the latest iteration of his Michelin-starred tasting menu restaurant, Somni. The 14-seat counter invites guests into a meticulously choreographed meal. Over 20 courses unfold in an artistic display. Imagine a delicate Parmesan feather with dashi meringue and Astrea caviar. Think steamed Spanish turbot finished with a single perilla leaf. At $495 per person, with an optional $225 wine pairing, Somni remains one of the city’s most captivating culinary spectacles.

Somerville

Location: 4437 West Slauson Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90043

One of LA’s toughest reservations, Somerville in View Park-Windsor Hills is more than just a restaurant—it’s a cultural experience. Paying homage to LA’s historic Black community along Central Avenue, this Art Deco-inspired dining room is a must. The restaurant features rich mahogany wood and a grand piano anchoring a modestly sized stage for live performances. The menu is as enticing as the ambiance, with highlights including fried chicken and caviar sliders and Parker House rolls. Order a Golden Age cocktail—blended with Sir Davis Rye—and settle in for an unforgettable evening.

Providence

Location: 5955 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038

After 18 years, Providence remains one of LA’s most consistently outstanding fine dining destinations. Chef Michael Cimarusti and partner Donato Poto continue to curate an exceptional seafood-tasting menu ($325 per person). The menu offers eight meticulously crafted courses featuring pristine catches. For the fortunate few, Cimarusti might even share a pour from his private whiskey collection. Every plate is artfully executed and presented with thoughtful explanations, making Providence the very definition of refined dining.

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Spending the Day in Silver Lake | Out & About

Tucked into the hills of East L.A., Silver Lake charms with its artsy spirit, tree-lined streets, and sweeping cityscapes. Whether you’re in the mood for vintage finds, hip eateries, or just a laid-back stroll, this neighborhood offers the perfect mix for a memorable day out.

Starting your day in Silver Lake

Kick off your morning with a visit to the Silver Lake Reservoir, a local favorite for getting outside and soaking up the scenery. This scenic loop draws joggers, dog walkers, and cyclists alike, thanks to its peaceful vibe and picturesque views of both the hills and skyline. Whether you’re up for a brisk walk or a casual ride, it’s the perfect place to ease into the day.

Grabbing a Bite in Silver Lake

Once you’ve explored the neighborhood, treat yourself to a bite at one of Silver Lake’s buzziest new eateries. Bar Siesta brings a lively, relaxed energy with its playful spin on classic tapas, while Pijja Palace flips the script on traditional sports bars with its bold Indian-American mashups and cult-favorite pizzas. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a full-on feast, these local gems promise flavor and fun in equal measure.

Shopping in Silver Lake

If you’re looking for some shopping, you’ll find plenty of boutiques and vintage shops to explore here. Check out the selection of vintage clothing and home decor at the vintage shop, Yesterday’s News, or the curated selection of clothing and accessories at General Store.

Spending the afternoon in Silver Lake

Later in the day, lace up your sneakers and make your way to the iconic Griffith Observatory. The hike up rewards you with sweeping views of Los Angeles, including a postcard-perfect glimpse of the Hollywood sign. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits on space and science, plus a planetarium that brings the cosmos to life.

Enjoying the evening

When evening rolls in, unwind with a cocktail at one of Silver Lake’s effortlessly cool bars. Bar Stella remains a local favorite for its moody charm and elevated drinks, while the Jaguar Room offers a sultry, jungle-chic vibe that’s perfect for a cozy nightcap.

With its mix of indie boutiques, crave-worthy food spots, and scenic trails, Silver Lake packs a whole lot of character into one neighborhood. Whether you’re exploring by day or vibing by night, there’s always something inspiring to discover in this creative L.A. enclave.

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Economic Update | Week Ending January 24, 2026

Weekly Economic Update; WEU
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 January 22, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.09%, up slightly from 6.06% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.44%, up from 5.38% last week.

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

Stock Markets and most prominent financial news of the week – It was another wild week for stocks, bond markets, and interest rates. It began with stock markets, which were closed on Monday for Martin Luther King Day, dropping over 2% on Tuesday when new tariffs on Europe were announced to begin on February 1 over the Greenland controversy. Stock markets dropped over 2%, their biggest one-day drop since tariffs were first announced on April 2, 2025. Bond yields and interest rates also rose. Fortunately, the “framework of a deal” was announced on Thursday and stock markets recovered much of their losses.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 49,098.71, down 0.5% from 49,359.33 last week. It is already up 2.2% from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the week at 6,915.71, down 0.4% from 6,940.01 last week. The S&P is up 1% from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. The Nasdaq closed the week at 23,501.24, down 0.1% from 23,515.39 last week. It is up 1.1% from 23,241.99 on December 31, 2024.

The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.24%, unchanged from 4.24% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.82%, almost unchanged from 4.83% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Home sales figures are released on the third week of the month for the previous month from the National Association of Realtors and the California Association of Realtors. Here is a summary of the December existing home sales reports.

U.S. existing-home sales – December 2025 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 4.35 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in November, up 5.1% from the number of homes sold in November and up 1.4% from the number of homes sold last December. The median price paid for a home sold in the U.S. in November was $404,400, down slightly from $409,200 in November, but up 0.4% from $403,700 one year ago.

California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 288,200 on an annualized basis in December, up 2% from a revised 282,490 last December. The statewide median price paid for a home in was $850,680 in December, down 0.4% from $855,680 in November. The statewide median price peaked at $910,160 in April before falling steadily each month to end the year down 7% from its peak. Year-over-year the median price dropped 1.3% from $861,020 on December 31, 2024.

Have a Great Weekend!
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Late Winter Garden Upkeep | Home Tips

While most of the country is knee-deep in snow, gardeners in Southern California are treated to a milder, more forgiving late winter. That said, the transition from January to February is still a crucial time for maintaining your garden’s health and preparing for the vibrant spring ahead. With a little attention and the right touch, winter garden upkeep in Southern California can set the stage for blooming success.

Later Winter Pruning Tips for Health and Shape

One of the most important aspects of winter garden upkeep in Southern California is pruning. January is an ideal month to prune deciduous fruit trees like apples, pears, and peaches. Trim back any dead or diseased branches to encourage healthy growth and fruit production come spring. Roses also benefit from a hard prune this time of year—cut them back to about one-third of their size to stimulate fresh, vigorous canes.

For ornamental shrubs and perennials, light pruning can help maintain shape and remove any frost-damaged foliage. Always use clean, sharp tools to prevent the spread of disease.

Feed the Soil, Not Just the Plants

Your garden’s soil may be working harder than it looks. Enrich it now to ensure it has the nutrients it needs to support future growth. Add compost, well-rotted manure, or an organic soil conditioner to your garden beds. This is a great time to plant cover crops or add mulch around existing plants to regulate temperature and moisture as the weather fluctuates.

Remember, winter garden upkeep in Southern California is less about survival and more about preparation. A well-fed garden now means a stronger, more vibrant garden in the months ahead.

Plan and Plant Cool-Season Crops in Late Winter

January and February are ideal for planting cool-season vegetables like kale, broccoli, lettuce, and carrots. If you’re tight on space, container gardening works beautifully in our region’s temperate winter climate. Herbs such as parsley, cilantro, and chives also thrive during this time and can be harvested fresh throughout the season.

It’s also a great moment to assess your garden layout and start planning for spring planting. Take stock of what worked (or didn’t) in the fall and envision what changes you might want to make.

Watch the Weather, Water Wisely

Despite our reputation for sunny skies, Southern California winters can bring sudden cold snaps and sporadic rain. Keep an eye on the forecast, and be ready to cover sensitive plants if temperatures dip near freezing. Frost cloths or old bed sheets work in a pinch.

When it comes to watering, less is more this time of year. Established plants generally require minimal irrigation in winter. However, be sure to check the soil moisture regularly—especially for potted plants or newly planted vegetables.

Clean Up and Stay Ahead of Weeds in Late Winter

Finally, clear away fallen leaves and debris to prevent pests and diseases from taking hold. Tackling weeds now while the soil is soft can save you hours of backbreaking work in the spring. Consistent cleanup is a key part of smart winter garden upkeep in Southern California.

Last Leaf

With a little planning and proactive care, your garden can stay beautiful and productive through winter’s end. Whether you’re nurturing a backyard haven or a small patio plot, these simple steps will keep your green space thriving as we move from January to February.

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