LA Eats: Your Guide to Restaurant Month

Los Angeles Restaurant Month is an event hosted semi-annually, with over 400 participating restaurants showcasing prix-fixe dining menus to foodies and self-proclaimed food lovers, for a lower than expected dining rate. We cover places in Los Angeles, the Westside, and the Valley. Enjoy one of these premier dining destinations from our guide below, or all of them! 

Valley

Sherman Oaks 

Mistral

When: January 17 – January 31
Where: 13422 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks 91423
Dinner Menu: $35

Having opened our doors in 1988, Mistral has consistently been recognized as among the San Fernando Valley’s best restaurants. Set within an elegant French bistro, guests are welcomed by seasoned and experienced staff members all charged with the sole purpose to provide you and your guests with an unparalleled dining experience.

Calabasas

SUGARFISH by Sushi Nozawa

When: January 17 – January 31
Where: 4799 Commons Way, Calabasas 91302
Lunch Menu: $20 
Dinner Menu: $39

SUGARFISH was created Kazunori and Tom Nozawa and the four other founding partners of the Sushi Nozawa Group. The legendary chef Kazunori Nozawa only served traditional-style sushi (i.e. no California rolls or spicy tuna rolls). His menu was only omakase (“leave it to the chef”).

Agoura Hills

Cafe Bizou

When: January 17 – January 31
Where: 30315 Canwood Street, Agoura Hills 91301
Dinner Menu: $29

At Café Bizou, they pride themselves in providing top quality service and delicious food in a family-friendly restaurant. Café Bizou Restaurant is the perfect setting for Business Meetings and Events, Family Reunions, Birthday celebrations or Rehearsal dinners.

Burbank

Castaway

When: January 17 – January 31
Where: 1250 E. Harvard Rd., Burbank 91501
Dinner Menu: $59

Cape Grim Steaks. Pasture Bird. Mishima Wagyu. These are some of our culinary stars. Castaway will offer seasonally-inspired cuisine with a steak-forward focus including interesting cuts from the world’s best butchers and dry-aged in our in-house aging room with a Himalayan salt wall.

Calabasas

Saddle Peak Lodge

When: January 17 – January 31
Where: 419 Cold Canyon Rd., Calabasas 91302
Dinner Menu: $59

Part roadhouse, Pony Express stop, hunting lodge, European auberge, perhaps even a hint of a bordello, Saddle Peak Lodge has been many things to many people in its long history. For 100 years—some say even more—Saddle Peak Lodge has been a place of enchantment, romance and great dining for generations of those who seek a unique experience.

Westside

Santa Monica 

Water Grill

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica 90401
Lunch: $35
Dinner: $59

For over 30 years, Water Grill has sated the palates of fish lovers. From the moment it opened, this flagship downtown restaurant from King’s Seafood Company has satisfied the need for a world-class fish eatery in Los Angeles.

Playa Del Rey 

Bacari PDR

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 6805 Vista Del Mar Lane, Playa del Rey 90293
Lunch: $20
Dinner: $29

Bacari PDR is a cozy little wine bar in an oddly shaped building on the main strip of sunny Playa del Ray that serves Italian Cicchetti (similar to tapas). You will find small but filling options like a stacked shrimp, mushroom, and juice-soaked bread tower, tender glazed pork belly, cheesy mushroom pizza, a thick burger covered in molten cheese, and hot clams.

Venice

Barrique

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 796 Main Street, Venice 90291
Dinner: $59

Michelin-awarded chef Antonio Muré brings eclectic Italian cuisine to life in Barrique’s cozy, romantic atmosphere with a Venice-style wine bar and rooftop terrace. Born in Porto-palo di Capo Passero, Sicily, and growing up in Parma, Emilia Romagna, Muré graduated from the prestigious Instituto Alberghiero di stato and spent his formative years cooking in some of Italy’s most celebrated restaurants. His unique approach to Italian cooking includes a variety of seasonal Italian creations like thinly sliced pan seared Buffalo with mustard grain dressing and Portobello mushroom salad and signature dishes like home-made red beet Tagliolini pasta in a Marsala quail ragú served on a bed of Taleggio cheese fondue.

Westwood

Audrey at The Hammer

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90024
Dinner: $49

Located within the Hammer Museum in Westwood, Audrey blends elevated and soulful cooking with a contemporary Southern California feel.

Los Angeles

Beverly Hills

a.o.c

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 8700 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles 90048
Lunch: $25 
Dinner: $59

After opening critically acclaimed Lucques in 1998, the duo of 3 time James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Restaurateur of the Year 2018 Caroline Styne embarked on A.O.C., the area’s pioneering wine bar that first paired an indulgent list of wine by the glass with a menu of market-driven small plates.

 

Hollywood

APL Restaurant

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 1680 Vine St., Los Angeles 90028
Lunch: $20 
Dinner: $99

This restaurant is a BBQ restaurant by day & a Steakhouse by night. The restaurant is situated on the ground floor of L.A.’s first-ever high-rise, the historic Taft Building, and is a one of a kind dining experience.

Downtown

Faith & Flower

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 705 W. 9th St., Los Angeles 90015
Lunch: $35 Dinner: $49
Inspired by a global influence of flavors and techniques, complemented by the use of a wood-fired oven and pristine raw bar, this menu redefines Californian rustic cuisine.

Weekend Events: January 10 – January 12

Looking for something to do this weekend? We’ve got you covered. We pick out the best things to do in Los Angeles, the Westside, and throughout the San Fernando, Conejo, Santa Clarita, and San Gabriel Valleys. Check out our weekend events list that includes concerts, culture, sports, cuisine, and more!

Los Angeles 

Friday, January 10th, 2020

Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra

location: walt disney concert hall

Conductor Zubin Mehta leads an adventurous look at German Romanticism from the lushness of the full orchestra in Wagner’s final Ring opera to the concentrated brevity of Webern’s nine-instrument concerto. This is the perfect chance to enjoy some music, and appreciate the architecture of the Walt Disney Concert Hall.  Get Tickets: HERE.

Saturday, January 11th, 2020

Whitney Cummings LIVE at The Comedy Store

Location: The comedy store, sunset blvd

Known for her stand-up comedy specials for HBO and Netflix, Comedy Central Roasts, multiple television series, and films, Whitney Cummings performs live at The Comedy Store this Saturday. Get Tickets: HERE.

MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art) Launches Free General Admission

Location: MOCA

The Museum of Contemporary Art is launching its free general admission on Saturday, with a free, family-friendly celebration at both MOCA locations. There will be a shuttle running between both locations. Tickets: FREE!

SUNDAY, January 12th, 2020

Smorgasburg LA

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

Indulge your inner foodie and shopaholic at this weekly food-focused market. Smorgasburg is the largest weekly open-air food market in America. With markets in New York and Los Angeles, they attract about 50,000 people each weekend to eat from over one hundred local vendors.

East LA Art Walk 

Location: East 1st Street, Los Angeles 90063

Not to be confused with the NELA Art Walk, the East LA event includes live music and art, fed by the surrounding area restaurants and taco stands. Sponsored by the small business owners of the 1st Street Corridor. No tickets are necessary.

Westside 

Friday, January 10th, 2020

Santa Monica Restaurant Week

Location: Santa Monica, CA

To celebrate California Restaurant Month and highlight Santa Monica as an award-winning, health-conscious culinary destination, participating Santa Monica restaurants and their chefs will craft delicious, healthy, and custom dishes centered around this year’s special restaurant week ingredient – the KUMQUAT. Check out the Santa Monica Restaurant Week Restaurants: HERE.

Saturday, January 11th, 2020

USC vs. UCLA Men’s Basketball

Location: UCLA

UCLA will host crosstown rival USC in Men’s Basketball. The Bruins and Trojans are each entering this weekend’s game with 1-1 records. Game time starts at 7:00 PM (PST). Get Tickets: HERE.

Downtown Walking Tours in Santa Monica

Explore more than 130 years of Santa Monica history in approximately two hours and six blocks on a docent-led walking tour of downtown. Learn about Santa Monica from its Wild West frontier beginnings to the sophisticated metropolis of today. Get Tickets: HERE.

Sunday, January 12th, 2020

Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical

Location: Redondo beach performing arts center 

Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical is the captivating masterpiece from the Royal Shakespeare Company. Head down to the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center to experience this in real life! Get Tickets: HERE.

ICE at Santa Monica

Location: 1324 5th Street, Santa Monica 90401

Every holiday season Downtown Santa Monica brings a little ice to our beachside community, transforming the corner of Fifth Street and Arizona Avenue into the winter wonderland known as Ice at Santa Monica, an 8,000-square-foot ice-skating rink. Get Tickets: HERE.

Valley 

Friday, January 10th, 2020

Beauty and The Beast: The Broadway Musical

location: Thousand Oaks civic arts Plaza

Step into the enchanted world of Broadway’s modern classic, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, an international sensation that has been seen by over 35 million people in 13 different countries. Get Tickets: HERE.

Saturday, January 11th, 2020

Tour of Heritage Junction

Location: SAUGUS TRAIN STATION – Santa Clarita valley, ca

Inside Heritage Junction, the Saugus Train Station Museum is open Saturdays and Sundays (except holidays) from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. It is one of the most popular destinations in the Santa Clarita Valley.  No tickets are necessary.

Chinese New Year Festival in Monterey Park

Location: Monterey Park, ca

Ring in the Lunar New Year in the real heart of L.A.’s Chinese community at this annual two-day Monterey Park festival. This street fair takes over five blocks of Downtown Monterey Park with folk art, delectable bites and a carnival zone. The action kicks off Saturday morning with firecrackers and dragon and lion dances. No tickets are necessary.

Sunday, January 12th, 2020

Thousand Oaks Philharmonic presents Opus 56

Location: Janet & Ray Scherr Forum Theatre

Spend the afternoon with your friends and family and enjoy some classical music at the theatre. Get Tickets: HERE.

2020 XTERRA Boney Mountain Trail Run

Location: Rancho Sierra Vista / Satwiwa National Park

This would be race #3 of the XTERRA SoCal Trail Run Series – XTERRA Boney Mountain 6k and 21k Trail Runs!  This is the Grandmother of the Series.  All courses are professionally marked, staffed with excellent happy volunteers and medics, and supplied with Aid Stations serving Gatorade, water, and energy gels and bars.Cheer on your friends as they finish, climb the podium in 5-year age group categories, eat all the Baja Fresh tacos you like, drink some Beano Vino coffee, get a VFE massage and enjoy the XTERRA racing scene.  Experience the massive backcountry on these extremely satisfying trail half marathon and 6k trail runs. Get Tickets: HERE.

 

LA Eats: Ring in the New Year at These Restaurants

Looking to ring in the new year with great food and entertainment? From a celebratory meal in Downtown Los Angeles to a Southeast Asian inspired meal in Santa Monica to a time traveling meal in Glendale… look not further, we have got you covered!

Abernethy’s at The Music Center

220 N Hope Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Located at The Music Center Plaza, Abernethy’s invites Angelenos to ring in the New Year with a celebratory meal featuring Chef Jason Fullilove’s Modern Soul Food. Fullilove’s five-course prix fixe menu highlights dishes that evoke feelings of warmth and comfort, including Shrimp Bisque, Parsnip Soup, Crab Toast, Grilled Little Gem Salad, Curry Fried Cauliflower, Roast Free-Range Chicken, BBQ Bone-in Short Rib, Shrimp ‘n Grits, and Squash Agnolotti. Pricing is $79 per person. Reservations available on OpenTable from 5pm to 10:30pm. A limited a la carte menu will be available at the bar for walk-ins and those seeking a more casual experience.

AKASHA

9543 Culver Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90230

On New Year’s Eve, AKASHA in Culver City rings in 2020 with a la carte specials, including Roasted Oysters, Iceberg Wedge Salad, Parker House Rolls, Bone-in-Ribeye for Two with Salsa Verde or Mustard Cream Sauce; and John Dory with Melted Leeks and Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette. Sides include Loaded Pommes Purée with Cheddar Cheese, Bacon and Chives; or a Mushroom Sauté of King Trumpets, Beech and Cremini. Complete your NYE dinner with a dessert of Olive Oil Cake with Schaner Farms Lemon Curd and Tangerines. All holiday specials are served in addition to AKASHA’s daily market-fresh menus.

APL Restaurant

1680 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Adam Perry Lang first built a following in Hollywood by serving “Serious Barbecue” on Jimmy Kimmel’s backlot. He switched from smoked meats to house-aged steak and opened a restaurant down Hollywood Boulevard in 2018. On New Year’s Eve, APL is offering three prix fixe menus and an a la carte Small Bites Menu. The Three-Course Menu features Burrata, Wet-Aged Ribeye (Dry-Aged available for $20), family-style sides (Broccolini, Pomme Purée), and Chocolate & Cognac for dessert. Pricing is $75 per person. The Five-Course Menu ($125) adds Beef Tartare to start and Seared Scallops with crab bisque and butternut squash. Priced at $175, the decadent Seven-Course Menu starts with Oysters & Champagne and adds Meyer Lemon Sorbet to the feast.

Bourbon Steak Los Angeles – “Odes to Epicurean Eras”

237 South Brand Boulevard, Glendale, CA 91210

Located at The Americana at Brand in Glendale, Michael Mina’s modern steakhouse is serving a special “Odes to Epicurean Eras” prix fixe menu with dishes spanning the 19th and 20th centuries. Starters include shrimp cocktail (1960), Bibb Lettuce Waldorf (1893), Little Gem Caesar Salad (1924), truffle artichoke veloute (1820), Oysters Rockefeller (1889), and the supplemental Michael Mina’s Caviar Parfait ($70, 1990). Main course selections feature Surf & Turf (1950), Wagyu Flat Iron Steak Diane (1950), aged duck breast & duck leg confit (1960), Colorado rack of lamb (1930), red snapper bouillabaisse (1980), Salmon en Papillote (1840), and two supplements: 20 oz prime bone-in ribeye ($16, 1822) and 2.5 pound Lobster Thermidor ($28, 1896). For dessert, choose from chocolate cream pie (1897), lemon sorbet (1670) or go all the way back to 776 B.C. for cheesecake. Pricing is $105 per person, with optional wine pairing available for an additional $65.

Cassia

1314 7th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Taking its roots from Bryant and Kim Ng’s culinary heritage and experiences, Cassia celebrates the fresh, vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia. Cassia is serving a family-style New Year’s Eve prix fixe menu for $95 per person. Alongside Cassia signatures like Chickpea Curry and Whole Grilled Sea Bass, new dishes include Caviar with salted egg yolk crackers, seaweed crème fraîche & red onions; Smoked Beef Short Ribs with spicy Chinese BBQ sauce, Bibb lettuce & herbs; Spicy Duck Dry Sesame Noodles with scallions and more. Sommelier Marianna Caldwell is offering a $20 beer flight featuring Bryant’s favorites; $45 wine pairings and sparkling sake to pair with caviar. There’s also a limited a la carte menu on the covered and heated patio for walk-ins and those seeking a more casual experience.

Rodeo Realty Events: 2019 Holiday Party

To celebrate the stellar year that 2019 was… Rodeo Realty’s founder, Syd Leibovitch, threw a grand holiday party for all of the agents and staff on the team. The private event took place at BOA Steakhouse in West Hollywood. The event was set to host more than 1,000 individuals.

Upon arrival, invitees were personally greeted by Rodeo’s Branch Managers before checking in. Then, guests had the opportunity to take photos on the step and repeat (otherwise known as the red carpet) with members of Rodeo’s Digital Marketing Team. This was all to be done before immersing themselves into the 13,000 square-foot restaurant.

Once inside, there were multiple bars with free-flowing drinks and waiters constantly passing around hors d’oeuvres. From chicken sliders (this year is undoubtably the year of the fried chicken sandwich) to wagyu beef sliders to freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, the food at BOA did not disappoint.

It was a fantastic event that wrapped up the end of the year.

Take a peek at more of the photos from the event HERE!

Out & About: Melrose Avenue

Melrose Avenue is one of L.A.’s most famous streets, featuring a medley of dining, entertainment, and shopping destinations. The street begins at Santa Monica Boulevard where the cities of West Hollywood and Beverly Hills meet. Start your day off by shopping at the world-famous boutiques, enjoy lunch at one of the numerous top-ranked eateries and end the night by laughing yourself silly at The Parlor featuring newcomers and famous comedians or enjoy the many art galleries the famous street has to offer!

Gallery 1988 (Art)
Location: 7308 Melrose Ave Los Angeles, CA 90046

Gallery 1988 has continued to host awesome exhibitions focused on pop culture after launching the “iam8bit” art shows. Since opening in 2004, the gallery has mounted solo shows by popular artists like Luke Cheuh, Joe Ledbetter and Mike Mitchell. In 2007 they opened a second location further up Melrose!

 

The Parlor (Comedy)
Location: 7350 Melrose Ave Los Angeles, CA 90046

Booker and producer Jay Davis knows how to put together a solid lineup, often getting his famous buddies to come down for a show but also giving chances to funny unknows on the same stage. If you stop by this upscale bar on a Monday, grab a cocktail sit back and enjoy the show!

 

The Reformation (Shopping)
Location: 8253 Melrose Ave Los Angeles, CA 90048

Designer Yael Afalo takes diamonds in the rough and makes them shine, cutting vintage garb and surplus fabric into modern silhouettes, from cropped blouses to breezy maxi dresses and shorts.

JapanLA (Shopping)
Location:  7320 ½ Melrose Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90046

The cute culture shop on Melrose specializes in Japanese crossover collections. It’s a go-to destination for products from kawaii brands like tokidoki, Sanrio, San-X and Pokémon as well as occasional pop-up collections

Paul Smith Los Angeles
Location: 8221 Melrose Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90046

A “so British” atmosphere is cultivated with old books, wood paneling, and antiques. But most know this outpost for its electric pink exterior, one of the hot spots for instagrammers.

Helmut Lang
Location: 8808 Melrose Avenue. Los Angeles, CA 90069

Shop for modern pieces for men and women, mostly in black, white and cool neutral colors. The Helmut Lang was created by Austrian fashion designer Helmut Lang in 1986. The Helmut Lang brand still exists today without Lang’s involvement since 2005.

Crumbs & Whiskers
Location: 7924 Melrose Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90046

This cat-friendly coffee stop has set up the first permanent operation in the city Founder Kanchan Singh describes the D.C. based café as a place where you can grab a cup of coffee and cuddle with some cats. There is a small catch: you can’t prepare food in the same place as you house animals. So, Crumbs & Whiskers sources its drinks and snacks from the nearby Open Space.

 

Hollywood Improv

Location: 8162 Melrose Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90046

The flagship Improv on Melrose is one of the most legendary clubs in Los Angeles, as well as all of America. On any given night, walk in to see one of your favorite comics from TV at the bar, the acts are never a letdown! The shows are an exciting mix of independently produced, and experimental with frequent appearances by respected and well-known comedians.

Blue Jam Café
Location: 7371 Melrose Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90046

At Blue Jam Café, your table will be worth the wait with the best eggs benedict in town and delicious mouthwatering French toast. The Melrose location as been open since 2006, its fantastic service adds a neighborhood feel to the chain.

Tatsu Ramen
Location: 7111 Melrose Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90046

Tatsu Ramen brings traditional Japanese ramen to LA. Tatsu means dragon in Japanese and Ryu (the owner) being born in the Year of the Dragon, found the perfect name for his restaurant. Walking into Tatsu is like walking into the future. Rather than waiting in a long line at the counter, smart tables line the interior wall. Each customer places their order from the simple menu, which gives you an option to choose from six different ramen, 3 rice side dishes, pork bums and most recently the ramen burger!

Out & About: Places to Give Back This Holiday Season

Family time, presents, bright lights, and plenty of delicious food to go around the table are what we know as the holidays. However, many people are not so fortunate, especially here in Los Angeles where the homelessness crisis has continued to worsen over the last year. From cooking meals to spending time with terminally ill children, to donating baby supplies to parents in need. Your helping hands and most importantly your time and smile are needed to brighten up the holiday season for someone this year!

Midnight Mission

Downtown’s midnight mission offers counseling education, and job placement to the city’s homeless population, as well as food, shelter, personal hygiene, and medical care. For the holidays, the Mission holds special events in addition to regular meal services and food donation drives. Note: Midnight Mission asks that female volunteers come with a companion since this is an all-male facility.

Union Station Homeless Services

San Gabriel Valley’s largest social services agency, offers year-round community meal programs and other services for the area’s homeless population: including emergency shelter, children’s education and recreational activity and adult classes in parenting, nutrition, and money management. Union Station Homeless Services has also hosted Dinner in the Park for over four decades, named the biggest potluck in the nation by the Los Angeles Times: This organization helps give warm holiday meals to more than 7,000 homeless, low income, and senior citizens.

Fred Jordan Mission

The Fred Jordan Mission has provided clothing, blankets, and food to the homeless for more than 50 years. For the holidays, volunteers hand out food bags, toys and blankets, and sing carols!

Food on Foot

Donating gently used clothing, shoes, blankets as well as food! You can sign up to volunteer anytime, and it usually costs $25 (which serves as funds to feed about five people per day).

L.A. Regional Food Bank

Come help distribute food this holiday season with L.A. Regional Food Bank. Volunteers are needed for special events, food sorting, and food drives: including the organization’s yearly Operation Gobble, where volunteers will help inspect, sort and repackage food for delivery during the holiday.

Holidays From the Heart (CHLA)

This program aims to lighten up the holidays for chronically ill children and their families. There are a number of ways you can help, including sponsoring a family or providing bulk gift items (clothing, diapers, making a monetary donation, or serving as a volunteer (shopping for gifts, distributing gifts).

Baby2Baby

This organization works year-round to ensure that no child is without the basic necessities of childhood; accepting donations all year long for items that will benefit children (infants to age 12) including but not limited to car seats, clothing (children’s and maternity), hygiene items (toothpaste, soap, sunscreen), coats, and more.

Crayon Collection

Upcycle gently used crayons, providing children with crayons and saving our landfills. Being a part of Crayon Collection allows families with children of all ages an easy way to volunteer and make a difference.

Brighten the Holidays (Salvation Army)

This program helps families who are experiencing hard times due to unemployment, medical issues, homelessness or other challenges. From generously providing family dinners to donating toys to put under the tree, help the Salvation Army lend a hand with holiday events to those who need it most.

 

 

 

LA Eats: Los Angeles Farmers Markets Edition

Fresh fruits, homemade soaps, local sweet honey, eggs straight from the farm to crisp vegetables! Los Angeles has farmers’ markets all over the metropolitan area for your shopping convenience! Check out this list we put together by area for you!

Valley

Calabasas

When: Saturdays from 8 am to 1 pm

Where: 23504 Calabasas Road, Calabasas, CA 91302

Encino

When: Sundays from 8 am to 1 pm

Where: 17400 Victory Blvd, Van Nuys, CA 91406

Northridge

When: Wednesdays 5 pm to 9 pm

Where: 9301 Tampa Ave, Northridge, CA 91324

Sherman Oaks

When: Tuesdays 3pm to 8 pm

Where: 14006 Riverside Dr. Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

Burbank

When: Saturdays from 8 am to 12:30 pm

Where: 101 N Glenoaks Blvd. Burbank, CA 91502

Westside

Melrose Place

When: Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm

Where: 8248 Melrose Pl. Los Angeles, CA 90046

 

Beverly Hills 

When: Sundays from 9 am to 1pm

Where: 9300 Civil Center Dr. Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Century City

When: Thursdays from 10 am to 2 pm

Where: 10100 Santa Monica Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90067

 

Hollywood

When: Sundays from 8 am to 1 pm

Where: 1600 Ivar Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90028

Santa Monica

When: Sundays from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm

Where: 2640 Main St. Los Angeles, CA 90405

Marina Del Rey

When: Wednesdays from 11 am to 3 pm

Where: Vía Marina &, Panay Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292

Los Angeles 

Historic Downtown

When: Sundays from 9 am to 2 pm

Where: 209 W 5th St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

 

Pershing Square

When: Wednesdays 10 am to 2 pm

Where: 532 S. Olive St

 

Crenshaw

When: Saturdays from 10 am to 3 pm

Where: 350 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd

Central Avenue

When: Thursdays from 10 am to 3 pm

Where: 4301 S Central Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90011

 

Echo Park

When: Fridays from 3 pm to 7:30 pm

Where: 1146 Logan St. Los Angeles, CA 90026

 

 

Out and About: DTLA Edition

Los Angeles is full of bold history and unparalleled attractions. The home of Tinseltown. A pinnacle point of the Gilded Age. All synonymous with Downtown Los Angeles – a creative mix of the times, both new and old. Take an Angels Flight on LA’s only Funicular. Hear masterpieces at Disney’s Concert Hall. Spend a day in DTLA and enjoy a true piece of quintessential California. Keeping in mind the many areas of DTLA to explore, we will focus on the highlight reel of day to night activities in this Out and About: DTLA Edition.

Breakfast in the morning…

Start your morning off the Parisian way with a trip to DTLA’s beloved Bottega Louie.

Before Laduree was kind enough to make it’s long overdue west-coast appearance, Bottega Louie was the only place one could get a luxury Macaron collection whilst enjoying a french style brasserie. While there are more than a few shops that offer that perfect Parisian treat in Los Angeles, Bottega Louie will always hold a special place in our Angeleno hearts. Try the delectable Beignets served with Raspberry compote or the Tuscan Farro and Eggs tossed in Rainbow Carrots, Fresh Kale, and Mushrooms.

ART to see…

After you finish your trip down french cuisine lane, your not too far to have your pick of art on display at The Broad or MOCA.

While both museums offer their own range of Modern Contemporary Art, each will provide you a unique experience and proper dose of culture.

Needing a literary fix? The Los Angeles Central Library boasts stunning architecture and rare books.

Satisfy your inner book worm then head over to the Grammy Museum for a different collection of art with one of a kind pieces to gander at from musics biggest legends.

structural wonders to see…

For those who have an admiration for the great architecture of LA, the Los Angeles Conservancy Walking Tours is here to assist. As they guide you through and by DTLA’s iconic facades, you’ll have your choice of style. Choose between tours of modern skyscrapers or the Historic Core, Art Deco icons or Victorian mansions. A true display of LA’s most beautiful building.

On the chance you opt out of the walking tour, you should at least add the Bradbury Building and Spring Arcade Building to your list of sites to see.

The two are unlike one another as the Bradbury is DTLA’s oldest commercial building established in 1893. While much of the space is utilized for private office use,  movie buffs may recognize its iconic iron staircases from the climax of Bladerunner.

After this historical stop, save sometime to venture to the next one, if not only to at least pick up a mid morning reprieve. The Spring Arcade building still brims with the beauty of its 1924 structure.

Enter the terra cotta archway as you walk through a glass-roofed alleyway of dining options.  Stop by the Green Grotto Juice Bar and pick up a tasty beverage to go before your afternoon begins!

Up Noon…

By this point your thinking, “I’ve done enough walking today”. Well venture over to Grand Park, not for the cardio but to take in the bright urban oasis.

Refurbished in 2012, the park has 12 acres of sprawling space to lounge and people watch other than the performances and gatherings it plays host to throughout the year.

If your starving Grand Central Market is the only ideal destination to appease your midday cravings.

A downtown landmark since 1917, the food hall boasts over 30 different vendors ranging in international cuisine.

Once you’ve chosen and chased away those hunger pains, Angels Flight-the worlds shortest railway is mere steps away.

Thanks to the success of the Hollywood hit film Lalaland in which it was featured and enough community demand, the once stalled hillside attraction was reopened in 2017.

SHOPPING ESSENTIALS…

We are sure by now your wondering when you will get to splurge a little. Figat7th is the next destination which offers all of your favorite fashion finds like Zara and Mac(for unique pieces the Art District does not disappoint).

After you’ve picked up the items you’ll quote as “necessary” brace yourself for unparalleled views at our next stop.

Taking the day to new heights…

Que Skyspace, locate din the US Bank building is a high-rise experience to be had for all.

Glide your way down on the 45ft glass Skyslide suspended 1000 feet in the air  to their observation deck for unobstructed views of the city of stars. A site seeing experience like no other.

Taking it to Old town…

The oldest section of the city, El Pueblo and Olvera Street were established in 1781 as a farming community.

Brimming with authentic Spanish style, the area boast 11 historical structures and a range of independent street vendors.

Once you’ve explored enough here make your last afternoon stop Union Station(pun intended).

The last of the great American rail stations is just as handsome as the day it opened, with its mission style exterior and grand art deco interior touches.

When night falls…

As the evening sets in there are a few options to keep your DTLA outing going well into the night. Stop by LA Live to catch a game at the Staples Center or experience the only 4D entertainment in LA at Regal Cinemas.

Seeking a bit more of a stage based experience? Both the Music Center and Disney Concert Hall boost world-renowned performing arts engagements.

Set the stage…

At the Music Center much of the shows put on are courtesy of the Centre Theatre Group.

At the north end, the Ahmanson Theatre presents pre- or post-Broadway fare, while the smaller Mark Taper Forum stages a wide range of new plays. Also part of the Music Center, the grand Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is the home base for LA Opera, as well as occasional concerts and dance events.

The Disney Concert Hall is not only a marvel of modern architecture but home to LA’s award-winning Philharmonic.

Hosting a plethora of concerts and shows throughout the year, it is an experience not to be missed.

Dinner time…

If you want a bit more high-flying views along with your evening feast, 71 Above is literal in its name of providing you just that.

Set 950 feet from the ground level, 71 Above offers elevated modern American Cuisine with elevated views.

If you didn’t make it to the Arts District for your shopping spree, it is worthy of ending your night there. Providing some of the most unique restaurants and bars in the city of Los Angeles, the Arts District is a culinary and cultural haven.

If you know anything LA’s iconic dining scene, you’ll Bestia falls right to the top of the list. We recommend the the Spaghetti Rustichella—a small pyramid of noodles under Dungeness crab.

Italian not quite your flavor? No fret! For savory steak frites try Church & State  a marvel of french cuisine. After dinner finish your night Everson Royce Bar-a hidden neighborhood gem.

The end… We hope you enjoyed OUR GUIDE TO A day in DTLA!

Weekend Events: December 13 – December 15

Enjoy the weekend before the hustle and bustle of the holidays with these fun-filled events! Help Mickey look for clues in his search for Tinker Bell on ice or have a snowball fight with the kids in Los Angeles’ very own Winter Wonderland. From live performances to holiday markets and parades, we’ve got it all covered for you.

 

Friday December 13, 2019

Disney on Ice: Mickey’s Search Party Los Angeles
Location: STAPLES Center
When: 7:30 pm

 

Join Mickey Mouse and his friends at this brand-new adventure filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics, and unexpected stunts! Help them follow Captain Hook’s treasure map and look for clues in the search for Tinker Bell! Make precious memories with your whole family during Aladdin,  Toy Story, and Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out magical celebration on the ice, in the air, and all around!

Los Angeles Philharmonic
Location: Walt Disney Concert Hall
111 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012
When: 11 am

 

LA Phil features Michael Tilson Thomas as the conductor and Daniil Trifonov as the pianist. Trifonov has the reputation of taking a beloved classic like Tchaikovsky’s popular Piano Concerto and imbuing it with fresh new life. L.A. favorite Michael Tilson Thomas also leads Copland’s Third Symphony, built on the composer’s stirring Fanfare for the Common Man.

Taco Tour
Location: 1001 N. Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA
When: 10:30 am

 

During this bicycle tour, you will be taken to what we consider are some of LA’s best taco spots. You will experience a taco tour of Los Angeles that takes your body and taste buds on an unforgettable ride to some of LA’s hidden gems. This tour rides through different neighborhoods, historic sites, and they’ll stop at various taco stands and trucks so you can experience one of LA’s most popular on the go foods.

Saturday December 14, 2019

 

Winter Wonderland
Location: Baldwin Hills Crenshaw
3650 West Martin Luther King Junior Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 9008
When: 3 pm- 7 pm

 

Winter Wonderland is an opportunity for families across City Council District 8 to meet each other and celebrate the holidays with some fun in the snow! Councilmember Marqeece Harris-Dawson and Baldwin Hills Crenshaw invite you to join a day of holiday celebrations including music, food, and a toy giveaway. Performances begin at 4:30 pm, Grammy-nominated soul singer and songwriter Marsha Ambrosius will headline the free holiday concert. You won’t want to miss out on this!

Moonlight Forest Lantern Art Festival
Location: Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
301 North Baldwin Avenue Arcadia, CA 91007
When: 5:30-10pm

 

The 2019 festival will be more spectacular than ever with dazzling new lanterns and interactive experiences. Children will find bright circular swings and other interactive delights in Children’s World. Visit your family, friends, and holiday guests for a highly memorable evening.

 

Marina Del Rey Holiday Boat Parade
 Location: 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
When: 5:30 – 7:00 pm

 

Arrive early to grab a spot on the lawn at Chace photo or a good photo spot at Fisherman’s Village, two of the most popular viewing places. The 2019 parade theme is “Kids Make Holidays Bright”. A brief firework show at 5:55 pm announces the start of the parade, which lasts until about 8 pm.

Sunday December 15, 2019

The Nutcracker
Location: Royce Hall-UCLA
10745 Dickson Court Los Angeles, CA 90095
Time: 12 pm

 

Los Angeles Ballet continually brings exciting ballet productions in Los Angeles, and their annual Nutcracker is no exception. In this production, LAB has stayed true to their classical roots with a little spin: the show is set in LA in 1912. This LAB performs The Nutcracker at five different venues throughout the Southland, so there’s plenty of opportunities to catch a performance without having to sit in too much traffic.

 

 

Unique LA Holiday Market
Location: Santa Monica Pier, Downtown Santa Monica

The annual holiday market features clothes, accessories, and art pieces from a number of quality handmade brands. Check out local products and rub elbows with the different designers and artists showcasing their work.

Frozen
Location: Pantages Theatre, Hollywood
6233 Hollywood Boulevard
Time: 1pm and 6:30 pm

 

Do you want to build a…rainy day fund to save up for tickets to a smash hit Disney-inspired Broadway musical? Good, because Frozen is coming to L.A. The Broadway musical based on the 2013 animated Disney film, will kick off a national tour with strong fall 2019 performances at Hollywood’s Pantages Theatre.

 

 

 

 

 

Weekend Events: December 6 – December 8

With the holidays just a short time away, you won’t want to miss out on these events to get you in the mood! From fun-filled events like live performances at Wallis Annenberg to beautiful museum exhibits at LACMA!

Friday December 6, 2019

Handmade Ornaments Show

Location: iam8nit, Echo Park

Artists from around the world have crafted hundreds of original ornaments in an assortment of mediums, from plush to metal, and most are affordably priced. The pop-up market kicks off with an opening reception on December 5 (7-10pm) and continues during regular gallery hours through December 22.

For The Record: Love Actually Live

Location: Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Beverly Hills

Throughout December, cult-favorite musical series For the Record presents a stage show based on one of the world’s most beloved holiday movies, Love Actually. Using a multimedia set, a 15-piece orchestra and songs from the film, the show will turn Beverly Hills’ Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts into a feel-good winter set for musical numbers and scenes of the movie’s intersecting love stories.

“Shirin Neshat: I Will Greet the Sun Again”

Location: The Broad, Downtown

This exhibition will make you angry, angry about the subjugation of women around the world, angry over entire populations being unwelcome to their own homelands and angry that such a beautiful body of work from Shirin Neshat hasn’t been on display in Los Angeles before. Covering 30 years of the Iranian-born artist’s photo and video works the Broad is a must-see.

Saturday December 7, 2019

“Julie Mehretu”

Location: LACMA

A co-presentation with New York’s Whitney Museum of American Art, LACMA takes a first-ever mid-career look at the Ethiopian-American artist’s striking large-scale abstractions, with 35 paintings and 40 works on paper.

Artisanal LA Holiday City Market

Location: Multiple Venus

L.A. markets is a 30 vendor pop-up at Bunker Hill’s Bank of America Plaza, a gathering of 75- plus markets in the parking lot behind the Pasadena Playhouse.

Sparkle DTLA

Location: THE BLOC

Sparkle LA is setting up shop at the Bloc through the end of December, and it’s bringing a bunch of programming along with it, including a holiday card and wreath making workshops.

Sunday December 8, 2019

W | ALLS: Defend, Divide, and the Divine

Location: Annenberg Space for Photography

The latest challenging exhibition from the Annenberg Space for Photography examines the real and imagined barriers that have separated societies and ideas for centuries, from the Roman Empire to the U.S.-Mexico border.

 

“Loitering is Delightful”

Location: Barnsdall Art Park & Hollyhock House, Los Feliz

Loitering is delightful celebrates the process of taking your time and enjoying your surroundings without any particular aim.

 

Rose Bowl Flea Market

Location: Rose Bowl

The world-famous Rose Bowl Flea Market takes place on the second Sunday of every month! Come shop from over 2,500 vendors selling everything from coveted antiques, rare vintage finds, and today’s most up-to-date trends!