Click the image below to view our Westside Rodeo Realty weekly newsletter for Nov. 19th-25th!!!
This week at Rodeo Realty: Westside Newsletter Nov. 19th-25th
Weekend Events: Nov. 22nd-25th
Now that we’ve had our Thanksgiving feast and with the family still likely in town, it’s time for the real tinseltown fun. From Turkey Trots to Santa’s Christmas Tree lot, there is plenty of festive beats this holiday weekend!
With all the hustle and bustle of our weekday routine we bring you a curated list of the weekends top activities happening throughout the city of stars.
Discover your inner Angeleno!
Limited engagements taking place this Nov. 22nd-25th
Thursday & Friday nov. 22nd-23rd
Turkey Trot
November 22
Location: Downtown
If your looking for something to combine giving back and the exercise you’ll need alongside your festive feast, the Turkey Trot answers that call. A charity race through DTLA benefiting The Midnight Mission, give thanks this season to your cardio incentive.
The Queen Mary
November 23-January 6th
Location: The Queen Mary, Long Beach
The Queen Mary is a graceful step back in time. Whether you opt to enjoy their first class dining on Thanksgiving(November 22nd) or prefer to savor an extra day until the annual Christmas celebration begins. Decked out in twinkling lights that nestle perfectly with the night sky is a months worth of live music, food & drink, and family activities to delight the all aboard the iconic ship.
STANLEY KUBRICK’S SOUND ODYSSEY (OPENING NIGHT)
Nov. 23rd-25th
Location: Walt Disney Concert Hall, DTLA
Combining film clips with live performances of the scores, we bring to life the iconic music chosen by late legendary director Stanley Kubrick – from Beethoven to Penderecki.
Pre-Concert Event: Drinks in the Garden
Come early on select Friday nights and enjoy complimentary drinks and a unique view of the DTLA skyline from the Garden. Then head over to the Upbeat Live pre-concert talk in BP Hall (select nights only).
Pre-Concert Talk: Upbeat Live
With Bernardo Rondeau – 7pm
Enhance your concert experience with a pre-concert talk starting at 7pm. Upbeat Live provides historical and cultural context for many concerts, featuring engaging speakers, audio examples, and special guests. These events are free to ticket holders and are held in BP Hall, on the second floor, accessible after your ticket is scanned.
Saturday Nov. 24th
UCLA Football VS. Stanford
Location: Rose Bowl, Pasadena
UCLA Football will wrap up the 2018 season by playing host to the Stanford Cardinal this Saturday, November 24, at the Rose Bowl Stadium with a 12:00 p.m. kickoff. In appreciation of their selfless service and efforts to keep our community safe, UCLA Athletics is proud to offer four complimentary tickets to Saturday’s game to all first responders. This offer can be redeemed at the Rose Bowl Stadium Box Office on Saturday by showing any valid first responder identification.
For UCLA vs. Stanford Gameday presented by McDonald’s, parking lots will open at 6:00 a.m. Fans are strongly encouraged to plan ahead and pre-purchase parking online here for $5 off on-site pricing.
SENIOR PET ADOPTION FAIR
Location: Wallis Annenberg PetSpace: Playa Vista
November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month and Wallis Annenberg PetSpace is devoted to finding forever homes for senior dogs and cats! We are proudly partnering with the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control to offer senior dog and cat adoptions at this special event. Meet with experts at booths to learn about the amazing qualities of senior pets and how enriching life can be with one of these companion animals. Plus, discover products and nutritional offerings specifically geared toward older pets. Younger guests can join a very special Paws & Pages storytime session, as Lisa Wiehebrink will be reading her Gray Whiskers book and signing copies too. Face painting and refreshments will also be provided, free of charge. Be sure to bring the entire family to this heartwarming event!
Holiday Marketplace
Location: Craft and Folk Art Museum, Los Angeles
It’s a match made in artisanal, #shoplocal heaven at the return of the Craft & Folk Art Museum’s Holiday Marketplace. It’s a slightly more global take on the local makers scene, augmented by music and snacks, with the added benefit of taking in the museum’s current round of impressive mixed-media shows and installations. Tip: The faux-fur safe room by Uzumaki Cepeda might come in handy for weary shoppers seeking a calming respite. The jewelry, textiles, ceramics, and unique, sustainable home goods are not only irresistible but also cash and carry — so consider getting in on the Saturday morning preview brunch not only for early access to the goods but also fresh coffee and fancy treats. VIP preview brunch: Sat., Nov. 24, 10-11:30 a.m., $15.
Sunday nov. 25th
The Hollywood Christmas Parade
November 25
Location: Hollywood Blvd, Holllywood
Also, the annual Hollywood Christmas Parade is returning this month! The parade, which will be held November 25, will feature many performers including The Village People, Ruben Studdard, Tom Dixon, and many more! A great event to add to your things to do list! Also, attendees will enjoy a night filled with marching band shows, larger-than-life balloon figures, and even an appearance from Santa. A concert for ticket holders will be at 5 p.m., with the procession starting at 6 p.m. Tickets range from $32 – $85. More details HERE.
Langham Winter Festival
November 25th
Location: The Langham, Pasadena
The landmark Langham Hotel host their final Heritage with Heart event of the year. Already regarded as one of the premiere luxury resorts in southern California, the hotel will usher in the holidays stylishly. Enjoy the hotels tree lighting ceremony, a live performance by the Lythgoe Family, holiday food and of course Santa.
My Fair Lady
Location: Aero Theatre, Santa Monica
4K Restoration! MY FAIR LADY, 1964, Hollywood Classics, 170 min. Dir. George Cukor.
Domineering speech expert Henry Higgins (Rex Harrison, in his finest performance) transforms 19th-century Cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle (the never-lovelier Audrey Hepburn) into a beautiful, swanlike lady, in director George Cukor’s sumptuous adaptation of the Lerner & Loewe musical classic. Winner of eight Academy Awards including Best Picture, Director and Actor. Co-starring Stanley Holloway, Wilfrid Hyde-White, Theodore Bikel and Jeremy Brett. With the song favorites “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?,” “The Rain in Spain,” “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “Get Me to the Church on Time” and more!
Your Thanksgiving Cocktail Guide
Maybe you enjoy avoiding(or barring through) deep conversations about your life with your Aunt Esther… Or simply love the holiday occasion to indulge, we’ve rounded up the best beverage recipes this season. So take a seat and a sip, because this Top 10 list is sure to make you the Thanksgiving MVP.
Pecan Pie Martini
INGREDIENTS
- 6 oz. Rumchata
- 6 creme de cocoa
- 3 bourbon
- Ice
FOR GARNISH
- 3 tbsp. caramel, microwaved until pourable
- 1/4 c. toasted chopped pecans
- Cool whip, for garnish
- 3 whole pecans, for garnish
- Sprinkle of cinnamon, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
- Place caramel and toasted chopped pecans on separate small shallow plates. Dip the rim of each glass first into caramel and then into chopped pecans to coat.
- Combine Rumchata, creme de cocoa, and bourbon in a large cocktail shaker. Fill with ice and shake until cold, 30 seconds. Pour into martini glasses and top with a dollop of whipped cream, a whole pecan, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Apple Cider Mimosas
INGREDIENTS
- 2 tbsp. sugar
- 1 tbsp. ground cinnamon
- 1 c. apple cider
- 1 (750-ml.) bottle bubbly
DIRECTIONS
- On a small plate, combine sugar and cinnamon. Dip champagne flutes in water to wet the rims, then dip in cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Fill champagne flutes 1/4 full with apple cider, then top off with champagne.
Cranberry Mules
INGREDIENTS
- 2 oz. cranberry juice
- 2 oz. vodka
- 1/4 c. lime juice, plus extra for garnish
- 3 oz. ginger beer
- 1 Handful fresh or frozen cranberries
DIRECTIONS
- Combine cranberry juice, vodka and lime in a glass filled with ice. Top with ginger beer, whole cranberries and garnish with a lime wedge.
Caramel Apple Spritzers
INGREDIENTS
- 8 apples
- Lemon wedges (to prevent apples from browning)
- 1/2 c. Caramel
- 1/4 c. cinnamon-sugar
- 1 750-ml bottle moscato, chilled
- 1 c. green apple vodka, chilled
- 1 c. Sprite, chilled
DIRECTIONS
- Make apple cups: Slice off the top of each apple. Use an apple corer to remove the inside of the apple until you’re about 1/2″ from the bottom of the apple. Squeeze lemon juice inside the apple cups to prevent apples from browning.
- Dip the rims of the apple cups in caramel then coat in cinnamon-sugar.
- Make spritzer: In a large pitcher, combine moscato, green apple vodka and Sprite and stir. Pour spritzer into apple cups and serve immediately.
Pumpkin Spice Oreo Spiked Milkshake
INGREDIENTS
- 1 1/2 oz. vodka
- 4 pumpkin spice Oreos, plus more for garnish
- 3 scoops of vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 c. milk
- Salted caramel, for drizzling
DIRECTIONS
- Place vodka, pumpkin spice Oreos, vanilla ice cream, and milk in a blender.
- Pour mixture into serving glass and drizzle with salted caramel sauce.
Maple Bourbon Cocktail
INGREDIENTS
- 2 ounces bourbon (I used Makers 46)
- 1 ounce fresh squeezed orange juice
- 1/2 ounce pure maple syrup
- 1-2 dashes of angostura bitters
- orange peel + maraschino cherry for garnish
DIRECTIONS
Add ingredients to an ice filled cocktail shaker and shake until chilled. Strain into ice filled glass. Garnish with orange peel and cherry. Serve and enjoy!
Apple, Pumpkin Beer Cocktails
Ingredients
- 8 ounces good-quality bourbon
- 9 ounces apple cider
- 2 1/2 ounces lemon juice
- 12 ounces pumpkin ale
- ice
- Cinnamon sticks and cranberries for garnish
Directions
- In a cocktail shaker, shake together the bourbon, apple cider and lemon juice. Pour into 4 glasses filled with ice.
- Pour the beer evenly into each glass.
- Garnish with cinnamon sticks and cranberries. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pear and Thyme Fizz
Ingredients:
- 2 cups good-quality apple juice
- 1 ripe but firm pear, very thinly sliced
- 12 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1/4 cup orange-flavored liqueur (I like grand marnier)
- 1 bottle sparkling wine (champagne, prosecco, cava, etc.)
Directions
1. In a pitcher, combine apple juice, pears, thyme and liqueur. Stir together, then refrigerate for 2 – 4 hours to allow the pears and thyme to infuse the juice with flavor.
2. Divide between 6 champagne flutes, discarding thyme, then fill remainder of each glass with champagne. Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh thyme. Bottoms up!
Cava and Pomegranate Cocktail
Directions
- Fill 12 flutes with cava.
- Add 1 teaspoon of the pomegranate juice to each flute
- garnish with pomegranate seeds and serve.
Hard Cider Sangria
Directions
- In a pitcher, combine the apples with the orange, apple juice, lemon juice and brandy.
- Just before serving, add the hard cider(Angry Orchard, Stella Artois, etc..).
- Serve in tall glasses over ice.
LAX Eats: Your Airport Travel Bites Guide
With Thanksgiving mere days away there is one crucial guide you’ll need for your holiday travels. Where to eat? Spare yourself the Cinnabon and take your flight bites to new heights(Double Points for Rhyming!). Below is your LAX cuisine guide by terminal. So read on and quench your cravings. Because there hasn’t been a sorting this good since Harry Potter chose Gryffindor(If your not watching HP with the fam is it even the holidays?!?!).
Terminal 1
Trejo’s Tacos
Gate 11a
Fans of the film actor will know these tasty tacos have been making wave in the city if angels. With locations citywide, it is no wonder Trejo Tacos has set up shop at LAX. You wont find all of the menu offerings your used to at his other locations, but all the favorites are accounted for. Try the steak asada or vegan optioned cauliflower and jackfruit. With bowls, burritos, and quesadillas, there is plenty to chose from Trejo’s.
Cassell’s
Gate 11a
In the same newly added food quarters as Trejo Tacos is the 60-year-old iconic burger counter–Cassell’s. Order diner style classics with their patty melts and cheeseburgers, and enjoy added extra’s like fried egg and sweet potato fries. To keep it retro, finish off with an old-fashioned milkshake which is sure to send you into dessert beverage paradise.
Terminal 2
Sealegs Wine Bar
Gate 28
Looking for something a bit more in the sit-down restaurant realm and less on the grab and go don’t miss your flight vibe? Well you shouldn’t miss your flight but you should enjoy stylish decor, quality food and appropriately priced wine at Sealegs Wine Bar. While the food is not quite the bites from the sea you’d assume from it’s title, you will find delicious “California-esq” cuisine.
Built Custom Burgers
Gate 24A
You will find no shortage of burger joints in our bustling LA airport, but you will find a craft your own option at Custom Built Burgers. Choose bun or bowl, beef, turkey, chicken or vegan patty and a full range of free toppings to make your pick of.
Slapfish
Gate 23A
Up your breakfast game and stop by Slapfish for their take on the morning meal. Choose between shrimp and grits, lobster-egg-avocado tacos and a smoked salmon-veggie-and-herb-topped bagel. Missing the am cut off time, their lobster roll or New England clam chowder is an equally satisfying midday match.
Terminal 3
The Parlor
Gate 37A
To all true sports fanatics, no fret on missing your teams play by play(unless your mid-air, you’ll catch it when you land)! The Parlor has set-up the perfect offshoot of its Melrose spot to help you keep score. Enjoy great cocktails and a grilled four-cheese sandwich on parmesan bread in the comfiest leather lounge you don’t need mileage points to enter.
Shake Shack
Gate 34
So everyone from NYC to LA and yonder knows the “dealio” with Shake Shack. If you don’t allow us to educate you. Born out of the city that never sleeps in a hot dog cart(really the original food truck) is everyones favorite burger joint. Keep it basic with a ShackBurger smothered in their famed Shack Sauce. Or venture down the fast food road with a griddled flat-top dog stacked with tomatoes and pickles! Orrrrrr the underrated super crispy Chicken Shack and an over-the-top-in-all-the-right-ways frozen custard. Ok we’re done now.
Terminal 4
Real Food Daily
Gate 44
Whether you’ve joined the plant-based fan club, really don’t want another greasy burger, or are actually vegan–Real Food Daily is here to appease all. So don’t tire yourself on a mediocre Kale Salad from Airport Snack Shack that shall not be named(more HP jokes, your welcome!) and appease your taste buds. Try the seitan-and-tempah club or veggie-miso soup along with all of their other vegan goods to grab and go. Your natural, gluten-free, dairy-free, non-gmo foods gods will thank you.
Cole’s
Gate 44
Local’s will know Cole’s as DTLA most classic French Dip sandwich joint and those not from LA now also know it as the above. Whether your new or old to the famed spot(est. 1908, crazy right?), it’s LAX shop dishes out a equally delicious take. Pair yours with a side of spicy garlic fries and bacon potato salad to complete the meal and wash it down with their signature Old Fashioned.
Terminal 5
Lemonade
Gate 50B
As we have said intermittently throughout this article, if your over the airport norm of cuisine, we have your covered. Or to be more precise, Lemonade has you covered, at least in the fresh marketplace seasonal offerings realm of things. With various salads and veggie heavy dishes to chose from like the roasted broccoli with ricotta and chile-roasted butternut squash…need we go on?
Ford’s Filling Station
Gate 55A
Modeled after its Culver City predecessor, Ford’s Fueling Station is the gastropub inside an airport you’ve been searching for. While it’s La County locations are long gone, you will still find all the classics at this last standing outpost. From the pub burger, to bacon wrapped dates and their Cubano flatbread, you’ll wish you traveled more often.
Terminal 6
Osteria
Gate 64A
One of the many eateries that have come courtesy of Top Chef fan favorite Fabio Vivani, Osteria your attractive LAX option. With its orange leather cushioned seating, glass wine wall, and elegantly tiled pizza oven, its has fun to eat in as it is to lounge in. The semi-italian menu offers bites from panini to marina meatballs along with bar style choices like their truffle potato skins and veggie burger. Molto buona!!!
Earthbar
Gate 64A
Those of us with an Equinox membership will know it as our power-up spot and those of us who don’t will at least have juiced up at the original juice bar at some point in our LA lives. Earthbar is your pre-flight go to. Have a mix of berries, hemp milk, almond butter, and maca along with their signature Earthfusion protein to sooth or aid your air-bound jotters. They also offer Acai bowls, tasty trail mixes, fresh fruit, and other feel good food options.
Terminal 7
B Grill by BOA Steakhouse
Gate 73
This more relaxed version of the swanky steakhouse BOA is the place to hit when you want more elevated airport fare (especially if you have an expense account at your disposal). Think NY strip, petit filet with red wine butter, and the same signature stacked Chop Chop salad that’s served at the Santa Monica and West Hollywood restaurants. You can also expect gussied-up gourmet burgers, wraps, and a few pastas, as well as a thoroughly respectable wine list.
BLD
Gate 72B
For something food-court-fast, sidle up to this spot that does serviceable American fare of turkey clubs, grilled chicken salads, and bacon-and-egg sandwiches on sourdough as well as vegan options including a soyrizo breakfast burrito, Impossible burger, and grain bowl.
Terminal 8
Engine Co. No. 28
Gate 83
The good news is you’re just a terminal away from the pinnacle of LAX dining at Tom Bradley International terminal. The bad news is you’re in Terminal 8, and your options are lame and limited to mainly fast food like Carl’s Jr. and Panda Express. If you want a proper drink, you can get it here in addition to a range of food items like corn chowder, an ahi tuna salad, and veggie chili.
Tom Bradley International Terminal
The Great Hall
gate 148
This 15,000-square-foot dining and retail behemoth is one of the best things to come out of the billion-dollar-plus renovation that turned this terminal into one that actually looks like it belongs in an airport servicing the country’s second biggest city. Here you’ll find a lot of fast-casual versions of LA restaurants you know and love (or in some cases loved). Grab brick-oven pizza at 800 Degrees; tacos, tamales, and tortilla soup at the city’s last standing Border Grill; baked goods and lattes at Larder at Tavern; and an above-average sandwich selection at Michael Voltaggio’s Ink Sack.
Petrossian Caviar & Champagne Bar
gate 148
You’re already plunking down several months’ salary on a trip out of the country, so you might as get the baller ball rolling at the airport with champagne and crazy amounts of caviar at this den of decadence. Sure, you can grab a to-go “Caviar Picnic in the Sky” that starts at $200 and runs upwards of $1,000, but if you want to start off a bit tamer with a more reasonable bite onsite, go for the “Petit Petrossian” caviar plate (for a bargain $48), caviar flatbread, or caviar deviled eggs.
Vanilla Bake Shop
Gate 150
The cupcake trend may be on life support, but airports have their own culinary rules, and that glass case of mini confections with perfectly piped frosting can look mighty good when you’re wandering aimlessly during a delay-induced stupor. What the heck, you’re on vacation…
This week at Rodeo Realty: SFV and Ventura County Newsletter Nov. 12th-18th
Click the image below to view our SFV and Ventura County Rodeo Realty weekly newsletter for Nov. 12th-18th!!!
This week at Rodeo Realty: Westside Newsletter Nov. 12th-18th
Click the image below to view our Westside Rodeo Realty weekly newsletter for Nov. 12th-18th, 2018!!!
LA Eats of the Week
With as many restaurants as there are Bird scooters, we’ve decided to simplify your options of the week by dishing out the best places to grab a bite from power lunches to elegant fare. Read below for our nosh worthy eats throughout L.A.
“Breakfast is the most important deal of the day…”
Donut Bar
Location: 445 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101
Time: Mon-Fri /7am / Sat-Sun / 8am
The famed San Diego shop has recently opened its doors in Old Pasadena. Known for wild flavors and unique menu creations, Donut Bar brings you the most Instagrammable breakfast you can achieve at 7am in Pasadena. Featured on Ellen, Conan, and the Food Network, why not stop in for “The Worlds Most Award-Winning donut”
The Pan
Location: 57 E Holly St, Pasadena, CA 91103
Time: Mon, Wed-Fri /9am / Sat-Sun /8am/ Tues / Closed
While The Pan has already made waves in South Bay and their other L.A. locations, they also recently debuted in Pasadena. A casual comfort food spot, you’ll have your pick of great eats from pancakes to pizza and tasty sandwiches in between.
Gjelina
Location: 1429 Abbott Kinney Blvd., Venice, 90291
Time: Mon-Sat / 8a-12a / Sun 8a-11p
This Abbott Kinney hot spot is the perfect start to your day on the westside. We recommend avoiding peak times but promise Gjelina is worth the wait. With their one-of-a-kind dishes and impeccable ingredients, its no wonder it’s helmed as a Venice icon. Try the Moroccan Baked Eggs with Merguez Tomato Sauce and yogurt for a spice to your daily breakfast routine.
“Lunch, Brunch, 2nd Breakfast!”
Ippudo Ramen
Location: 1403 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Time: Mon-Sat / 11a and Varies
Word famous Ippudo Ramen has recently opened up shop in Santa Monica. Having made waves in NYC and SF, the Japanese staple is sure to be equally satisfying to the LA area. Try their Karakacchan-a shoyu base filled with a unique mix of ground pork, bold umami essences, and a medley of spices! Is it lunchtime yet?
Cloudy Garlic
Location: 2750 Colorado Blvd Ste 4, Los Angeles, CA 90041
Time: Mon-Sun / 11a-9p
If your a fan of all things garlic spiced or flavored don’t forget to pop a breath mint after lunch. But also, you should try Eagle Rocks trendy new sandwich shop The Cloudy Garlic. Offering up everything from garlic meatball rice bowls to Korean BBQ sandwiches, its the perfect combo of comfort and spice.
Baco Mercat
Location: 408 S. MAIN ST., Los Angeles CA 90013
Time: MON-THUR/ 11:30a-2:30p/ FRI-SAT 11:30a- 3p/ SUN 11:30a-3p
“Bäco Mercat were any more of the moment, it would be a Pinterest page devoted to Tumblrs of itself, so that restaurant and metarestaurant could devour one another”-Jonathan Gold
Described by the late Jonathan Gold as a menu that reads like “a graduate exam on culinary poststructuralism”, Baco Mercat is just that. An education in Euro-Asian and South American fusion, the DTLA eatery brims with flavor. They are best known for their creation, the Baco-a signature flatbread sandwich served with various meats and sauces of your choice. With a full menu inspired by flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean, north Africa, southern Europe, and Asia, sit down and enjoy!
“Whats for dinner?”
Heritage Beverly Hills
Location: 467 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Time: Mon / 11:00a– 6:00p / Tues-Sat / 11:00a– 11:00p(Special Event Times vary)
At the corner of Canon on the intersection of Santa Monica Blvd sits a hidden Parisian gem you might miss if your not in the know. Heritage Fine Wines labels itself as an organic fine wines shop and tasting lounge, and is anything but. From their John Legend pop-up(he legitimately pops in) shop to their Michelin Chef dinner engagements, you’ll wonder where its been all your life. While this can’t be your every evening dinner go-to, it is a soiree worth planning for. Catch Michelin Star Chef, Martin Simonart and his 5-course tasing menu this Saturday! Space is limited!!
The Nomad
Location: 649 South Olive & 7th Street, Los Angeles, 90014
Time: Sun – Thur / 5:30p – 9:30p / Fri – Sat / until 10pm
Culinary enthusiast will be familiar of the name The Nomad from its successful roots in NYC. The hotel brings new elegance to DTLA and the Chef Daniel Humm run restaurants bring award-winning cuisine to the city of stars. Guest can opt for more casual bites in The Lobby or venture to an elevated experience from the Mezzanine. Share the Roasted Chicken with Black Truffle and Brioche Stuffing paired perfectly alongside abby turnips and a crisp Belgian Brown Ale.
Here’s Looking at You
Location: 3901 W 6th St, LA, CA 90020
Time: Sun – Thur / 6p – 10p Fri – Sat / 6p – 11p
No not the Hollywood Classic film noire but the K-Town popular joint that serves up deliciously unpredictable cuisine. Here’s Looking at You serves up a diverse and vibrant blend of seasonally choice food touched by Pan-Asian influence. If the cocktails are swoon-worthy. Enjoy their Foie gras & unagi bowl with daikon, scallion, yolk, wasabi, and tobiko. Or the White corn ribs sautéed in poblano, cotija, and lime ending with a Cognac semifreddo drizzled in blueberry and caramelized white chocolate.
Top Tips For Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood
Looking for something fun to do for all ages? One place to consider is Universal Studios Hollywood. This film studio and theme park is one of the most popular theme parks in California! If you’re planning on visiting Universal Studios Hollywood soon, a little planning and preparation can go a long way! Take a look at the tips below. Hopefully this will help you navigate Universal Studios Hollywood like a pro.
Ticket options
1. Order you tickets in advance. Online general admission tickets are typically cheaper and range between $99 – $129.
2. If you’re not really sure on what day you’re planning on visiting, you can purchase their Anytime Admission tickets online. You can visit Universal on any date you choose.
3. Get Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter when you purchase online tickets. The Early Park Admission allows you to enter the park one hour before it opens and is subject to availability. Check out their calendar for availability.
4. Get in front of the line to all attractions and shows when you purchase the Universal Express Pass. This will cut your wait time in half and helps during busy days like weekends and holidays. Prices typically run $169 and up.
5. Children two years of age and younger get to enter the park for free. Just keep in mind that there’s a height requirement to various rides.
6. Want to get the VIP experience? The Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience package gives you valet parking, unlimited access to shows and rides, a personal tour of the park, breakfast in the VIP lounge, access to sound stages, prop warehouse, and other restricted areas, an all-you-can-eat lunch at the Moulin Rouge dining room. Children under the age of 5 are not allowed for this package. Prices are currently around $349 and up.
7. Planning on going with a big group? Universal offers discounts for group of 10 or more. For more information and to reserve tickets, call 1-800-959-9688.
8. Stay away from third party resellers and buy directly from the park.
Best time to go to the Park
9. If you can help it, avoid going to the park when children are out of school.
10. Fall and spring are the least congested. The busiest season is the summer.
11. Want to see a celebrity? Check out the Universal Studios Hollywood calendar to see which celeb will be at the park.
Tips on the Park
12. Get to the park early to beat the crowd.
13. Try visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter first, which is located at the front. This area can get extremely packed later in the day.
14. The park has two lots, the Upper and the Lower lot. Build out your day so you’re not going back and forth between lots. Also, the Lower lot (the smaller of the two) is usually less buy and is near some of the most exciting rides; Revenge of The Mummy The Ride, Transformers: The Ride 3D, and soon, Jurassic World, which is set to open next year in 2019.
15. Download the Universal Studios Hollywood app. The app gives you information on upcoming shows, ride wait times, restaurant and shop locations, as well as character meet and greets.
16. Free WiFi is available at the park. While at the park, use it to view wait times HERE.
17. Make sure to bring an empty water bottle into Universal Studios Hollywood and fill it up at one of the fountains inside the park. The theme park can leave you dehydrated with all the excitement and walking.
18. Non-english speakers can visit Guest Relations for tour times. Studio Tours are offered in Mandarin and Spanish.
Tips on Rides and Shows
19. Don’t care to split up from your group? Single Riders Line is a great option for you and one of the fastest ways to get on a ride.
20. Also, did you know the park offers a “child switch” program? If a child isn’t old enough or tall enough to ride—one or two adults can wait with the child in the Child Switch room while the rest of their party enjoys the attraction. When the party returns, the adults can switch with the ones waiting, without having to wait in line all over again.
21. Express passes are not accepted at Ollivanders Wand Shop. This line is the longest in the mornings when children and adults are buying their wand for the day. Wands allow you to perform magical spells at most of the Harry Potter world.
22. If you’re a die-hard Potter fan, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the place you have to visit! Here you’ll be transported into a magical world the moment you step in.
23. Consider taking the Studio Tour if you decide to visit the park. Guests will get to see some of the most iconic movies that have been filmed like JAWS and Psycho. In addition to that, you’ll also get to experience King Kong 360-3D and a ride along tour with the cast of Fast & The Furious, a hyper-realistic journey with a crazy car chase adventure.
24. Looking to attend one of the most popular shows in the park? Make sure to see WaterWorld. Run time for this show is 20 minutes, so head on over when you need a break or are tired of standing.
25. The old Jurassic Park closed earlier this year. Universal Studios Hollywood plans to update the ride as Jurassic World in 2019.
26. Looking for a perfect cool down option for the little ones? The Wet Zone area known as Super Silly Fun Lands, offers more than 80 water play features.
Tips during Holiday Time
27. Enjoy a dazzling light show by Night Time Lights at Hogwarts Castle. This is available during the summer and in the winter time as well.
28. From November 17, 2018 to January 6, 2019, enjoy holiday themed everything at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Expect Christmas décor, and holiday themed food and drinks.
29. During the holidays, enjoy the return of “Grinchmas”. This annual event will take place weekends on December 1 and 2, 8 and 9, and daily from December 14 – 30. Here you can catch performances by Martha May Who-vier and the Who-liday Singers, as well as see a 60-foot tall “Grinchmas” tree.
30. Don’t have plans for New Year’s Eve yet? Universal Studios Hollywood will have various party areas filled with drinks, music, and dancing. At midnight, enjoy a countdown and fireworks!
31. Another fun time to visit Universal Studios Hollywood is during the Lunar New Year. For 2019 the park plans to have a Dragon Warriors Kung Fun training show, live performances, and Mr. Ping’s Noodle Shop.
Eating Options
32. Feast on Hogwarts approved British fare at the Three Broomsticks in Wizarding World. This rustic tavern has a menu that includes Fish & Chips, Beef Sunday Roast, and Shepherd’s Pie. For a group of five, consider “The Great Feast” which includes roasted chicken, ribs, roasted potatoes, corn on the cob, and steamed vegetables.
33. Harry Potter fans can enjoy a taste of Butterbeer inside Hogs Head Pub. Here you can order the exclusive Hog’s head Brew or the Pumpkin Juice, wine, spirits, and other beer selections.
34. For a variety of food options, consider Springfield U.S.A. This place has many eateries, bars, and items from the show.
35. Also, CityWalk has many food options such as Karl Strauss, Margaritaville, and Voodoo Doughnut.
36. So, remember you can go in and out of the park. Hold on to your ticket and get your hand stamped.
10 Best Happy Hours for Fall
While it’s warm as ever in LA, there’s no better way to cool down than with a cocktail at one great happy hour or another in Los Angeles. All over the city, bars and restaurants are offering great options for full-on dining, grazing with friends, or just grabbing a beer solo on the way home.
Luckily there’s no shortage of great options for happy hour dining and drinking right in one’s very own neighborhood. Here now are the best places to slip in for an early evening (or all night long) happy hour bite, presented from west to east.
Tallula’s
118 Entrada Dr
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Santa Monica, CA 90402
(310) 526-0027
This beachy entrant by the Rustic Canyon group was meant to host happy hour crowds. The menu available weekdays from 4 to 6 p.m. offers steep discounts on favorites like the nachos sencillo, alongside new dishes like steak tostadas and a variety of tacos. Of course, there’s a requisite $8 margarita.
Tumbi
115 Santa Monica Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 829-7200
This modern Indian restaurant just steps from the beach in Santa Monica features happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. on weekdays with mini kabob burgers and two kinds of dosas either stuffed with fried chicken or mozzarella, tomato, and basil chutney. Burgers or dosas come with a beer for $11.
E.P. & L.P.
603 N La Cienega Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90069
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(310) 855-9955
E.P. & L.P. have a new rooftop happy hour on weekdays from 5 to 7 p.m. with $8 cocktails and $5 Asian-inspired street snacks. Bites include fried chicken sliders, szechuan fish tacos, and soy caramel popcorn to go along with a drink called Pineapple Skies, with tepache pineapple liqueur, ginger beer, and lime.
Yardbird Southern Table & Bar
8500 Beverly Blvd #112
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 250-8034
This Southern-inflected restaurant has all the mores of a chain restaurant, which it is, but with an expansive Beverly Center dining room and a wide menu of comfort dishes, it’s hard not to recommend as an after work hangout. It serves $7 bites from 3 to 7 p.m. such as brisket biscuits, barbecue shrimp, and disco fries, plus cocktails like a Frenso watermelon mojito for the same price.
Connie and Ted’s
8171 Santa Monica Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90046
West Hollywood, CA 90046
(323) 848-2722
There’s a new late night happy hour for West Hollywood denizens at Santa Monica Boulevard mainstay Connie & Ted’s, with $1 oysters Sunday to Thursday evening from 9 to 10 p.m. Connie & Ted’s also has an afternoon happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m., but the late night is the only time to get those dollar oysters. Afternoon happy hour features $5 beers, $6 wines, and a $7 margarita, too.
Gusto
8022 W 3rd St
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 951-9800
There’s a new happy hour at this high-ceiling Italian restaurant on West Third from 5 to 7 p.m. daily with $10 pizzas, 6 oysters for $12, and the excellent polpette al forno for $8. Nab an Aperol spritz or Negroni for $7, which makes a post-work hangout pretty darn affordable.
Gesso
801 N Fairfax Ave #101
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 544-6240
West Hollywood locals have a new after-work go-to thanks to Gesso’s weekday happy hour. From 5 to 7 p.m., an eclectic set of everything from hummus plates to anchovy toast to pate banh mi is all on the menu for $10. Specialty cocktails and wine by the glass also float around the $7 mark.
Spartina
7505 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 782-1023
This Melrose standby encourages diners to get social with its extended “Social Club,” available all day Monday and at the bar Sunday through Thursday. It’s surely a pleasant way to bring people together over $8 classic and specialty cocktails and $5 antipasti.
The Mermaid
428 E 2nd St
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Los Angeles, CA 90012
This intimate cocktail lounge in Little Tokyo has a low key bar bites menu that’s even more reasonably priced during happy hour. Running from 5 to 8 p.m. daily, drinks are $1 off while the kitchen churns out some snacks like nori guac and pickled eggs. For something more substantial, there’s tangy chicken wings at just $1 each.
Bone Kettle
67 N Raymond Ave
Pasadena, CA 91103
Pasadena, CA 91103
(626) 795-5702
With a sleek dining room and welcoming bar, Bone Kettle prepares Indonesian-inflected bites from 5 to 6 p.m. in Pasadena with $7 drinks. Food includes the highly regarded oxtail dumplings, steak tartare, bone marrow with scallion confit, and chicken wings.
Courtesy of Eater LA
Out and About: Brentwood Edition
Those most familiar with LA will know that there are few areas as affluent as Brentwood with it’s quaint shops and lush greenery, it’s no wonder it ranks as one of L.A.’s most idyllic neighborhoods. Amongst the perfectly tailored lawns and architectural masterpieces is a day full of art, culture, sites, and bites.
Take some time to step outside your neck of the woods…
In the morning hours…
Mornings are best spent starting off with a perfect caffe au lait, in Brentwood there is no shortage of options. Stop by Caffe Luxxe and get your morning pick-me up within the historic Brentwood Country Mart.
The eatery picks and roasts their own coffee giving new meaning to hand-crafted. Select from freshly baked delights courtesy of Red Rooster Bakery and be on your way.
After your AM charge, explore some of Brentwood’s architectural masterpieces for a light dose of dream home FOMO.
For afternoon reprieve…
Between the Hunt, Sturges, and Nesbitt house, you’ll have quite the day exploring these post-war artfully designed properties. A Paul R. Williams design, the Hunt Residence was built in 1921 with elements of the Regency Revival style. The George Sturges house, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and built in 1939 features Wrights Usonian style.
After geeking out on home design of the retro times, venture off to see a different style of art at the Getty Center. A wonder on the scale of both culture, art, and design, the 24-acre Richard Meier designed campus boasts panoramic city views and renowned collections. Once you reach your afternoon craving stop point then have a seat in their lush garden for a midday picnic. The Getty Center boast exceptional dining options and a plethora of seating choices.
If one prefers to head back into town for their afternoon meal, the Farmshop is the perfect destination. Founded by Chef Jeff Cerciello, the eatery is a staple of the Brentwood Country Mart. With imaginative recipes and locally sourced ingredients, its the best afternoon pick me-up.
Your evening adventure…
Once, day turns to night, a show at the Skirball Cultural Center is almost a given. Just north of the Getty, the center explores heritage, culture and ideals through permanent collections, rotating exhibits, film screenings and live performances.
Finally, we recommend for your evening conclusion to dine as locals do, at Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne’s acclaimed Tavern. The destination restaurant features a tastefully prepared seasonal menu with a who’s who of patrons.