Category: Los Angeles

As the week and the month of September end, we are diving into a new batch of technology news. From the NASA Dart Mission to Amazon Scribe and more, read on and stay connected with the world of technology and science!

McDonald’s Unveils Happy Meal for Adults – The Cactus Plant Flea Market Box

For an optimal dose of nostalgia given a modern twist, Mcdonald’s has unveiled its Happy Meals for adults box lunch. The Cactus Plant Flea Market Box is a collab between the fashion brand of the same name. Inspired by the childhood joy of Happy Meals, the adult-focused box lunch will be available at participating McDonald’s while supplies last. For those eager to try the Cactus Plant Flea Market Happy Meal, you’ll have a choice between a Big Mac or 10-piece McNugget meal. Likewise, each box comes with an artsy take on Happy Meal toys. The four collectible figurines will be abstract takes on McDonald’s characters like Grimace, Hamburgler, and Birdie, the Early Bird.

Meta Launches Make-A-Video, AI-Generating Tool

Facebook parent company Meta has launched its latest social media feature. Make-A-video is a new artificial intelligence system and Meta’s latest research foray in technology that can create content from text prompts. In addition, to images, the technology can also create videos from images or similar videos. Meta believes its research into “generative AI” has the potential to open new opportunities for artists and creators. Of course, other companies have been exploring this side of technology as well. OpenAI, the company behind the service Dall-E, has also been experimenting with text prompts to create visual art. In fact, just this week, the tool was opened to everyone. In addition, Google also launched its AI program this past May. 

Instacart Goes Healthy with Latest Business Model

In an effort to make healthy food more accessible, Instacart is launching a new business model. The initiative will focus on increasing food security and nutrition. Called Instacart Health, the new model will embrace “food as medicine.” This concept will focus on the health benefits of certain types of food as it applies to health care. The model includes Care Carts, a new Instacart product the company says will enable health care providers and caregivers to order groceries on behalf of someone else. In addition, there will also be Fresh Funds, a service that will allow health organizations, an employer, or insurance companies to give people funds for buying food via Instacart. 

NASA Telescope Captures Successful DART Mission

As millions watched around the world, NASA completed a successful mission of crashing its DART spacecraft into an asteroid. NASA deliberately crashed the DART spacecraft into the asteroid as a part of a planetary defense mission. Since the spacecraft crashed into the asteroid, it’s not clear how big of a dent it left on the rocky surface. The ATLAS project, which takes advantage of telescopes across the world, grabbed a great video of the moment of impact, which occurred about 7 million miles from Earth. The DART mission is a test to see if we can knock space rocks off course, should they ever be headed our way.

Amazon Unveils E-Ink Tablet for Writing and Reading

A new kindle has arrived, and this time it’s re-writing what you thought about Kindle…literally. The Kind Scribe is Amazon’s latest reading device. With a 10.2-inch E Ink screen, a stylus that attaches to the side of the device, and a bunch of new software, the $339.99 Scribe packs a lot into one device. The Scribe is available for preorder today, and Amazon promises it’ll be out before the holidays. The e-commerce giant hopes this latest iteration of its Kindle Reader will make it a bigger competitor with other smart tablet devices. Likewise, only time and consumers will tell. 

Whether you’re vegan or craving a simple healthy meal, our list of the best plant-based bites around town is sure to cure your cravings. Read on for the best vegan spots that are 100% plant-based around town!

LOS ANGELES

CROSSROADS KITCHEN

Location: 8284 Melrose Ave | Los Angeles 

When it comes to the best vegan restaurants in L.A., it’s hard to top Crossroads Kitchen. Open since 2013; the plant-based menu offers stunning creations you would genuinely be surprised are vegan. We recommend the Artichoke Oysters as a starter, with the Spaghetti Carbonera for a main dish worth remembering.

HONEYBEE BURGER

Location: 1820 N Vermont Ave | Los Angeles

Bite into a burger that’s grilled to perfection and 100% meat-free. That’s what you can expect at Honeybee Burger, the vegan fast food stop in Los Feliz. Enjoy your burger with a side of sweet potato fries and a shake for a classic off-the-grill lunch with a healthy twist.

SHOJIN

Location: 333 S Alameda St Suite310 | Los Angeles

If you are in the mood for sushi or ramen, Shojin in Little Tokyo is one of the best vegan restaurants for Japanese food. Get your serving of their baked “crab” hand roll, or enjoy a hearty kabocha squash ramen. 

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES

DE BUENA PLANTA

Location: 1118 Abbot Kinney Blvd | Venice

If you happen to be a fan of Butcher’s Daughter in Venice, the popular spot has a great vegan option for you! De Buena Planta opened in the past year and has quickly risen to be one of the best vegan restaurants on the West Side. From gorgeous cocktails to delicious cauliflower and mushroom tacos, what more do you need? Go ahead and indulge; it’s healthy! 

PLANT POWER FAST FOOD

Location: 5095 Pacific Coast Hwy | Long Beach

With a California coastal menu that’s equal parts pretty and delicious, Plant Power Fast Food in Long Beach has been fast to reach a top spot on our list. Along with the convenience of a drive-through for those on the go, Plant Power offers breakfast and lunch options to help you power through the day. Enjoy house-made burger patties and a horchata milkshake that will have you coming back for more! 

PLANT FOOD + WINE

Location: 1009 Abbot Kinney Blvd | Venice

Abbott Kinney has no shortage of healthy dining options, vegan and otherwise. At the top of that list is Plant Food + Wine. The restaurant offers Vegan fare so good you’ll forget it is all plant-based. Focused on locally sourced ingredients, P.F.W.’s’ menu brings together a rich array of tasty options. 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

H.O.P.E.

Location: 11943 Ventura Blvd. | Studio City

Healthy Organix Positive Eating is what you will find at H.O.P.E. and also what their acronym means. It’s both eclectic and enchanting, with a delicious and vast menu offering Asian specialties and even a few Mexican dishes. Enjoy burgers, wraps, and more for a vegan dining spot to suit any appetite.

O’CADO RESTAURANT

Location: 14568 Ventura Blvd | Sherman Oaks

Offering plant-based fusion with sustainable Wine, craft beer, and cocktails, O’cado serves as a perfect choice for an enjoyable evening out. The food offering ranges between Latin, Mediterranean, and American for culture-infused bites to delight your taste buds.

VEGGIE GRILL

Location: 16542 Ventura Blvd., Encino

Open from the early afternoon through the evening, Veggie Grill makes for the perfect stop if you search for a casual lunch or dinner option. When it comes to the best vegan restaurants in the Valley, Veggie Grill has plenty to offer that lads it on our list. While it may be a chain restaurant, the quality remains consistent in everything from the Far East Bowl to the Meatball Sandwich.

CONEJO VALLEY

NATURAL CAFE

Location: Westlake Village

Fresh, quirky, and tasty are just a few of the ways we would describe Natural Cafe. The Westlake Village vegan spot has an almost endless list of plant-based options to enjoy. We recommend the Buddha Burrito or Portobella Mushroom sandwich for a mealing that’s both filling and delicious!

INN OF THE SEVENTH RAY

Location: Topanga Canyon

When searching for a spot that offers both zen and quality food, Inn of the Seventh Ray is just as it sounds. A picture of tranquility in Topanga Canyon, the restaurant is tucked away from the street hustle and bustle and nestled in the canyon alongside a flowing creek. Stop by for lunch, brunch, or dinner for a day at one of Conejo Valley’s best vegan restaurants. And for those seeking a healthy kombucha boost, they have no shortage of in-house specialties to boost the mind, body, and soul.

SAGE PLANT-BASED BISTRO

Location: Agoura Hills

A casual plant-based neighborhood eatery, Sage Plant-Based Bistro offers its best to Conejo Valley and indeed delivers. You’ll find plenty to enjoy at this delicious vegan gem, from the tasty Buffalo Cauliflower Wings to the Jackfruit Stuffed Avocado.

Tired of road trips that involve driving? Take a train trip from LA! While train travel may seem old school, it still remains one of the best ways to take in the California coast. Luckily for you, Union Station is ideally located downtown, making it the perfect gilded-age stop along your local travels. Read below for our list of the best train trips from LA via Amtrak to get all aboard for some fun!

San Diego

In San Diego, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From festivals to concerts and more, it’s ideal for a train trip from LA. Party in the Gaslamp Quarter, cruise the harbor or visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo. After enjoying your scenic train route, explore Balboa Park, experience the USS Midway Museum, and shop at Seaport Village.

San Luis Obispo

Great for a family getaway or wine trip, San Luis Obispo is perfect for a train trip. Being that it’s 5.5 hours away from L.A. Downtown, you may want to start your day early or stay overnight. Once in town, check out a number of museums like the children’s museum, railroad museum, and historic mission. For adults, there are many wineries in the area and great hikes at Valencia Peak and Bishop Peak (both have amazing views).

Santa Barbara

About 3 hours away from Los Angeles on the train, Santa Barbara is a beautiful one-night getaway. There is a zoo, harbor, wharf, bike path, coastal park, and historic mission to explore. Plus, wine is a top attraction that adults can enjoy locally or on a day trip.

Paso Robles

For a great train trip and wine vacation, Paso Robles is a fantastic option. There are some activities for families, but overall, this destination is best for an adult trip. Visiting wineries is the top thing to do, with more than 200 to choose from. Due to the 6.5-hour train commute and one daily Coast Starlight train, you’ll need to stay overnight for at least one night.

San Jose

Looking for an urban getaway? San Jose is another great train trip. Taking 10 to 11 hours away on the Coast Starlight, it’s definitely meant for an overnight stay. Head to the SAP Center for concerts and NHL hockey games. For other top attractions, check out the Municipal Rose Garden, Santana Row commercial district, Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, and Happy Hollow Park and Zoo.

With Autumn around the corner, it’s a great time to add a touch of fall to your garden. That’s why we’re sharing our favorite fall plants to accompany the season. Read on below for a list of garden delights.

HELENIUM

Heleniums are simple plants to grow and are a top choice for any fall garden, whether it’s in the planning stages or already in blossom. These lovely flowers range from gold, red, and brown and come in a wide range of styles and sizes. Because of these unique traits, Heleniums are more than capable of being the solo plant species in a garden, as it provides a world of interest all on its own, with not one bed identical to another.

CHRYSANTHEMUMS

As the meaning of its name implies, the “golden flower” chrysanthemums originally came only as gold, but now they’re found in a variety of colors, from the most vibrant reds to the softest lavenders. Chrysanthemums are amazing fall plants for any garden because of their balance of youth and maturity and limitless possibilities of design.

MARIGOLD

Marigolds are popular garden plants because of their rich blends of yellow to orange and long-lasting bloom. Active during spring, summer, and fall, these easy-to-grow flowers offer a bright welcome to many companion flowers, so pairing has little to no hassle. Marigolds also give the overall appearance of any garden an attractive pop that can light up your day.

PURPLE FOUNTAIN GRASS

The purple fountain grass is popular for its beauty and versatility as a centerpiece or sophisticated border. The unique blend of white and purple and the natural, elegant pose of this plant make it a beautiful accompaniment to fall gardens of many arrangements. The plumes, or feathery seeds at the tips of the flowerheads, can also be used for dried flower arrangements for your home.

SHRUB ROSE

Shrub roses are hardy fall plants with long-lasting times of bloom and have a natural resistance to disease! Able to be planted from spring to fall, these plants are easy to care for. They also require little hassle or later nurturing. Their color ranges from humble white to eye-catching purple. This makes the garden arrangement a breeze when pairing with your other plants.

PANSY

Pansies are a classic spring and fall plant because of their easy care and variety of colors. These charming flowers are hardier than they appear, able to last up to eight months if planted in the fall. This means you’ll have a colorful array of petals all throughout fall, winter, and spring to bring an endless light to your garden.