Uber plans to test flying taxi service in LA

Not content to flood city streets with self-driving vehicles, tech company Uber is now looking to the sky as well. The company announced Wednesday that it will partner with NASA on a new flying taxi service, and that Los Angeles will be one of the first testing grounds.

In an interview with Bloomberg, Uber Chief Product Officer Jeff Holden said that testing for the program, called UberAir, would begin in 2020, with short flights of around 25 miles.

According to the company, passengers will travel in as-yet unbuilt electric aircrafts capable of traveling at speeds up to 200 miles per hour. The flights will take off and land at sites the company plans to develop in partnership with real estate investor Sandstone Properties.

Areas the flights could serve include Downtown LA, Santa Monica, Sherman Oaks, and a site within close proximity to LAX.

And, unlike Uber’s pricey helicopter service, the rides will be relatively affordable compared with other air travel options (Uber expects fares to be comparable to those of its on-the-ground ride-hailing options).

Envisioned as an alternative to LA’s notoriously awful traffic, the service would bring some of that congestion to the skies. Holden tells Bloomberg that, once UberAir is in full swing, there will be an “unprecedented amount of air traffic flying over cities.”

To prevent above-ground gridlock, the company will use new air traffic management technology developed by NASA.
Uber will also rely on outside companies to develop a fleet of aircraft capable of meeting the demands of the taxi service. Eventually, these vehicles—like Uber’s boring old cars and SUVs—could be operated without a driver.

By the time the 2028 Olympics rolls around, the company hopes to see “tens of thousands” of daily flights in the LA area.

Story by Curbed LA. 

The 10 Best Diners In Los Angeles

The diner has long been a symbolic sanctuary. The leather booths, the swivel chairs by the counter, the steaming mugs of coffee, the soft din of chatter; there’s something about the picture that gives us a feeling of being home. It goes without saying that the food is always plentiful and satisfying, and mighty restorative if you happen to be nursing a hangover.

L.A. is home to a great deal of worthy diners, to be sure (and many of them go hand-in-hand with our legacy of Googie architecture). Here are some of our favorites; they range from the nostalgia-inducing, to ones with surprisingly dynamic menus. What they all have in common is that they’ll always make you feel warm and welcomed; something we can all use a bit of.

101 COFFEE SHOP

It’s very likely that your introduction to 101 Coffee Shop includes some mention of it being in the 1996 classic Swingers. That doesn’t mean a whole lot, however, as the place underwent some renovations since the days of Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau’s nascent careers. In this case the changes are welcomed; with its muted lights and throwback styling, the interior reminds us of a different era without relying too much on straight-up kitsch.

The decor has gotten an upgrade since Swingers, and we imagine the menu has too. You’ll find the usual hits like huevos rancheros, a breakfast burrito, and silver dollar pancakes. The lunch and dinner menus offer a bit more variety, providing selections such as a blackened catfish sandwich and a grilled albacore burger.

101 Coffee Shop is at 6145 Franklin Avenue, Hollywood. (323) 467-1175


NICKEL DINER

In downtown L.A., where the terrain is in constant flux, certainties may be hard to come by. The Nickel Diner, however, has remained a constant. The food always comes out hot and plenty. And the dishes have a nice way of evoking the familiar, while adding a hint of the new. This is especially true for plates like the Sloppy Veggie Jo (a vegan take on the Sloppy Joe made with portobello mushrooms) and the buttermilk brined pork chop. You’ll want to save room for dessert, however. No trip to the Nickel Diner is complete without a bite of the famed maple glazed bacon donut.

Nickel Diner is at 524 S Main St, downtown Los Angeles. (213) 623-8301


S & W COUNTRY DINER

While S & W keeps it concise, it also manages to come out with a menu that’s the length of a small almanac. It includes favorites of Southern cooking such as biscuits and gravy, as well as big slabs of country fried steak (which also come with gravy). You’ll also find everything from bowls of hearty chili, to meatloaf sandwiches, to enchiladas, and pork chops. The decor, which espouses a kind of sun-faded roadside kitchenette vibe, is quaint and inviting.

S & W Country Diner is at 9748 Washington Blvd, Culver City. (310) 204-5136


MILLIE’S CAFE

It’s an understatement to say that a lot has changed over the decades on Sunset Boulevard in Silver Lake, but Millie’s has remained a bastion for those looking for a hearty and reaffirming meal. The restaurant has been around since 1926, and, as explained on their website, does “everything the pain in the ass, Old-fashioned way, by hand, from scratch, because there is a difference.”

The scrambles (in particular the machaca scramble) are filling, and the pancakes are perfectly fluffy–the “Monkey Banana” pancakes, which have a thin crisp on the outside and a very pliable interior, are especially gratifying.

Yes, the place can get packed, but it helps that the service is swift and on-point.

Millie’s Cafe is at 3524 W Sunset Blvd, Silver Lake. (323) 664-0404


LE ROY’S RESTAURANT

The pancakes at Le Roy’s are picture perfect; pillowy, golden-brown, and stacked to the ceiling. They’re indicative of the rest of the fare, which is so bountiful that it practically spills over your plate. And if you’re a fan of potatoes, know that we’ve mentioned before that Le Roy’s whips up some mean tater tots. There’s also a vast roster of sandwiches, from the Rueben to the hoagie to a classic French dip. The spot, which has been around since 1976, is no-frills but also plenty welcoming.

Le Roy’s Restaurant is at 523 W Huntington Dr, Monrovia. (626) 357-5076


RAE’S RESTURANT

The term “old-school” gets applied to anything that happened prior to last week. But it’s the perfect way to describe Rae’s, which has been serving Santa Monica for decades. From the Googie-inspired design outside, to the chairs by the counter, to the surf green walls, Rae’s lets you know from the get-go that it’s a holdover from a different era. The best part is that even the prices are old-school; you can get a fairly hearty and complete meal (plus tip) in the $10 to $15 range. While everything on the menu is good, we recommend the biscuits and gravy if you’re looking for something particularly indulgent.

Rae’s Restaurant is at 2901 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica. (310) 828-7937


NICK’S COFFEE SHOP & DELI

Aside from the taste of the food, the feel of the leather booths, and the aroma of the coffee, a diner is also marked by its sounds–namely, there’s nothing like a sizzling grill to get you in the mood for some hash browns. At Nick’s, you’ll get a pretty good view of the cooks and the grill at work if you’re settled up by the counter. And the interior stylings–both homey and splashed with character–gives the place a feel of familiarity (even if you’ve never been here before).

Of course, you’re here to eat, not just to look at interior design. There’s a sprawling menu that has everything you could possibly ask of a diner; regulars dig the simple servings of eggs Benedict, as well as the machacado con huevo.

Nick’s Coffee Shop & Deli is at at 8536 W Pico Blvd. in Pico-Robertson. (310) 652-3567


THE COFFEE CUP CAFE

The diner aficionado in you might argue that Long Beach’s Coffee Cup Cafe doesn’t look like a diner at first blush. Where are the fixed stools by the counter? But all the accoutrements are there: the surplus of steaming coffee, the bulbous syrup dispensers, the endless plates of pancakes and scrambles. Likewise, the Coffee Cup Cafe has been a go-to spot for those looking for some warm vibes and a replenishing breakfast.

The “Hank’s Chicken Chile Verde” (a simple yet delectable plate of chile verde, chicken, jack &

cheddar cheeses, and black beans) remains a favorite, and the scrambles come out as a glorious mess.

The Coffee Cup Cafe is at 3734 E 4th St, Long Beach. (562) 433-3292


THE ORIGINAL PANTRY

Yeah. OK. So the Pantry may not fit into your idealized version of a homey diner. There’s often a long line. The prices are higher than you’re used to. And sometimes you’ll run into the filming of a Judd Apatow movie. But, putting all that aside, the Pantry is serious about stuffing you with food. The pancakes are the size of wind sails, and you can practically bludgeon someone with that slice of ham. And the sourdough bread is irresistible.

This goes without saying that the joint practically glows with that Historical-Cultural Monument status. It might just be the lighting, but the space has that certain sheen that marks it as an emblem of another time. As for the service, it’s fast and efficient; the no-frills attitude is indicative of a veteran staff.

The Original Pantry is at 877 S Figueroa St, downtown Los Angeles. (213) 972-9279


CINDY’S EAGLE ROCK

You know Cindy’s is the real deal the moment you pull into the parking lot; a glorious vintage sign (spelled out in various fonts) greets you to the restaurant. It’s a good indicator for what you’ll find inside: red booths, quaint wallpaper, hanging globe lamps that cast a warm glow.

The decor whets your appetite for diner fare, and the food doesn’t disappoint. Outside of the usual favorites, you’ll also find items on the menu that are a little less ubiquitous (at diners, at least). You can find a great bowl of gumbo, as well as a filling catfish po’boy sandwich.

Cindy’s Eagle Rock is at 1500 Colorado Blvd, Eagle Rock. (323) 257-7375

Article courtesy of LAist. 

Eataly LA Arrives In Century City 

Rejoice, Angelenos! The long-awaited Los Angeles outlet of beloved Italian marketplace Eataly finally opened its doors on Friday, November 3.

Located at Westfield Century City, this bastion of Italian cuisine will feature three gleaming floors of high-quality Italian pleasures.

Eataly LA includes four restaurants, two cafes, nine takeaway counters, and a small cooking school run by Lidia Bastianich where you can view food demos and get hands-on practice in the art of preparing fine Italian cuisine.

One of the most notable eateries here is Il Pesce Cucina, a seafood restaurant focusing on sustainability from Michael Cimarusti of Providence.

The marketplace will sell an astounding 2,000 different artisanal food products imported from Italy, including nearly 200 types of olive oil, gelato, baked goods (including squid ink bread!), bronze-cut pasta, hand-made mozzarella and much more.

In addition, you can choose from a selection of top-quality edible local goods, including over 100 California wines and tasty produce and products specially selected from small farmers across the state.

While you’re there, you’ll want to check out the mozzarella station, the lasagna station, the meatball station, a station featuring fried items, a chocolate counter offering 50 varieties of single-wrapped Venchi chocolates, and take home a Neapolitan-style pizza flash-cooked (in 90 seconds) in gold ovens.

Story by We Like LA

Weekend Events: November 3 – 5 

Los Angeles provides no limit of things to do, some awesome and some not so awesome.
Since time is precious in this fast paced city we curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles for every weekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).

This weekend in L.A. (November 3 – November 5) includes, Grand Ave Arts: All Access, a Pizza & Beer Festival, ComplexCon, Día de los Muertos in Boyle Heights, Griffith Park Fall Festival, Lagunitas Beer Circus and MUCH more.

Enjoy!

Friday November 3rd, 2017

1. Latin music icon Selena will receive her posthumous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Friday, November 3. Keep the Selena vibe going that evening when Club 90s presents Selena Night DTLA at the Regent in Downtown Los Angeles!

2. Eataly LA is finally opening its doors this Friday at 6 p.m. in the newly revamped Westfield Century City. The 60,000-plus square feet marketplace will house thousands of Italian products, a cooking school and multiple dining spots serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

3. The Griffith Observatory hosts a monthly forum where some of the most amazing phenomena in the known universe are explained and discussed. It’s called All Space Considered and it takes place on the first Friday of every month. FREE

4. The ultimate zombie story Night of the Living Dead, transform into a stage play at Archway Studio in North Hollywood. The adaptation pays tribute to the classic horror film with a twist, it’s set in modern times. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

5. Café Bustelo is bringing free coffee and espresso-style drinks to L.A. now through November 4. Simply stop by one of the various mobile truck locations to grab an iced or hot coffee, cortadito, cafecito or café con leche free of charge. Check out the entire schedule of locations here.

6. 260 Sample Sale LA returns with a Zadig & Voltaire sample sale at their Beverly Hills store November 1-5. Offering up to %80 off of women’s and men’s clothing, accessories and shoes.

7. Old Town Music Hall in El Segundo will screen 1953 classic Roman Holiday staring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck this Friday and Saturday. Each screening will open the evening with music played on the pipe organ, a sing along and a comedy short.

8. Metro Art presents “L.A. Documentaries at Union Station,” a celebration of the city of Angels through true stories on film. Continuing the series is “Mur Murs” this Friday in the Historic Ticketing Hall. FREE

9. Now through November 5, check out the Dia de los Muertos altars on display at Grand Park. FREE

10. Wicked Lit is a spooky immersive theatre experience taking horror literature and turning them into plays at the Mountain View Mausoleum & Cemetery. It happens every Thursday through Sunday from September 28 through November 9. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

11. The Groundlings: The Completely Different Late Show is a hilarious improv show by the cast of the Groundlings’ Main Company. Audience shout suggestions throughout the night for improvisational scenes performed by some of the best in the business. It’s also a testing ground for brand new material for the Groundlings’ main show. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

12. Shop Vince’s sample sale from November 1-3. Score deals on men’s and women’s apparel and footwear.

13. Check out multi-sensory, walk-through experience Creep LA at the Music Box in DTLA happening October 5 through November 12. Inspired by the Amazon Prime Exclusive Series Lore the fully engaging, multi-sensory and super-scary experience, featuring some of pop culture’s most legendary horror myths. Happening Thursdays through Sundays.

14. The Actors Gang in Culver City will open their season with Captain Greedy’s Carnival, a musical satire mocking greed, humbug, corruption and predatory capitalism. Follow the story of four innocents who get tricked by a legendary con man. From there on they’ll encounter freaks, illusion, terrifying exhibitions and more. Happening Friday and Saturday. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

15. Since its the first Friday of the month check out all the cool events happening around town including block parties and art walks for First Fridays.

16. Free admission at: Norton Simon Museum (5 to 8 p.m.), Pasadena Museum of California Art (noon to 5 p.m.) and Long Beach Museum of Art.

Saturday November 4th, 2017

17. The third annual Grand Ave Arts: All Access returns to DTLA this Saturday and invites Angelenos to explore ten cultural institutions along Grand Avenue including the Broad, Mark Taper Forum and Grand Park. FREE

18. Self Help Graphics & Art is hosting their 44th annual celebration of Día de los Muertos in Boyle Heights this Saturday featuring a traditional ceremony blessing, food and craft vendors, face painting and children’s workshops. FREE

19. ComplexCon is a gathering of pop culture enthusiasts, sneaker heads, streetwear addicts and music lovers for two days of elevated pop culture. The Stellar lineup of artists performaces include N*E*R*D, Gucci Mane, M.I.A., Young Thug and DJ Khaled. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

20. Esotouric Bus Adventures hosts a four-hour luxury coach tour of Weird West Adams. Checkout one of L.A.’s most dilapidated neighborhoods and hear fascinating tales from the past hundred years. Guests will also visit landmarks like Alvarado Terrace, the Rosedale Cemetery and the death scene of Motown’s Marvin Gaye. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

21. Enjoy a circus-style beer festival when the Lagunitas Beer Circus takes over the Pomona Fairplex. Get your hands on newly released beers, enjoy live music, sexy burlesque dancers, stunning aerialists and more. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

22. Join the L.A. Conservancy for a walking tour of Wilshire Blvd. in Koreatown. Explore Koreatown’s architecture and history with access to about half a dozen sites, with informative Conservancy docents on hand to share cultural, historical, and architectural info.

23. The Pizza & Beer Festival heads to L.A. Center Studios in Downtown L.A. for a day of unlimited pizza tastings from some of the top restaurant and trucks. Wash it all down with unlimited craft beer tastings from local and regional breweries. In addition to food there will be live music, boutique art vendors, games and hand-rolled cigars for your smoking pleasure.

24. The inaugural DOPIUM.LA event will take place in the heart of Chinatown at Mandarin Plaza. The one-night art festival celebrates Asian American expression through food, music and never-before-seen art exhibits. The event aims to re-brand Chinatown as a modern, creative place. FREE

25. 7th Street Produce Market celebrates its centennial this Saturday at Row DTLA with live entertainment, food from Smorgasburg vendors and more.

26. Mushroom fan? Check out “Myco-Cosmos,” a free outdoor public performance in collaboration with artist and mycologist Phil Ross. Mushroom expert Paul Stamets will lead a guided meditation on “humanity’s fungal future within the universe.” The event is free and open to the public. Happening at the Los Angeles State Historic Park. FREE

27. Long Beach Airport’s annual Festival of Flight is a free community celebration featuring aircraft on static display, food trucks, a beer garden, and live music. This year’s event will feature a C-17 from March Airforce Base, the Charger Girls and more. FREE

28. OUE Skyspace LA is hosting a “Holiday Spirits” event where guests will learn how to create holiday cocktails, listen to holiday tunes and enjoy a ride on the amazing Skyslide! Your ticket will also get you take-home recipe cards, admission to all four levels of OUE Skyspace LA, complimentary food and drinks, and more.

29. Bird Fest returns to the Santa Monica Mountains with guided bird walks, kids activities, booths, food, and presentations from local bird experts. The festival will also feature an appearance by Dolly, a California Condor from the Los Angeles Zoo. FREE

30. Feastown at Eastown, a new, bimonthly popup night marketplace featuring food vendors and live music, debuted in Hollywood October and now returns for two Saturdays in November with a Thanksgiving-theme. There is no cover to attend. Part of the proceeds from food purchases will go to help locals in need.

31. There’s a massive ZOOSHOO warehouse sale with styles available for $5, $10 and $15. Brands featured in the sale include Jeffrey Campbell, Steve Madden, Doc Marten and J. Adams.

32. Check out Hollywood Forever Cemetery’s renowned Historic Walking Tour this Saturday. The popular, fact-filled tour are led by film historian Karie Bible.

33. California Dapper Day is back at the Disneyland Hotel November 4 and 5. The expo will feature vintage goods, dancing and special meet and greets. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

Sunday November 5th, 2017

34. Woofstock 90210 is a canine-centric, family-friendly event taking place at Beverly Hills’ Roxbury Park this Sunday. Fun events for dogs and humans alike include pet adoptions/rescues, pet-related vendors, food trucks, a pet parade, face and body painting for both pets and people, live entertainment and more. FREE

35. Shamilton at UCB Sunset is a hilarious musical improve show where the audience picks famous figures from Genghis Khan to Kim Kardashian and the Shamilton cast will create an improvised musical about them on the spot.

36. The Griffith Park Fall Festival will feature live music, food, games and local craft brews. Keep in mind this event is designed to be car-free with a bike valet. FREE

37. Fall in the Farm, at the Fairplex in Pomona is a free open-house event focusing on farm activities suitable for all ages including gardening, food and agricultural fun. FREE

38. On the first Sunday of each month the Glendale Brewery hosts Yoga+Brew led by Yoga with Joel from noon to 1 p.m. All levels are welcome, class cost $10 and your first pint is free.

39. There’s a Martha Stewart Musical happening at the Rockwell. Created by Ryan Raftery who had smash-hit musicals about Anna Wintour and Andy Cohen, Martha Stewart Musical tells the fascinating story of America’s first self-made female billionaire, from her humble beginnings to her time in federal prison and afterward. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

40. The Great Rock and Roll Flea Market will take over The Regent Theater in DTLA with an impressive selection of vintage collectors, antiquities dealers, vintage clothing, jewelry makers, music memorabilia, vinyl, local food vendors, food trucks, craftsmen and used musical instruments dealers. FREE

41. Friendship Buddies is a weekly stand-up comedy show at the Verdugo Bar in Glassell Park. Come hangout in the back patio, enjoy a cocktail, and LOL to outstanding stand-up comedians in Los Angeles. FREE

42. Free admission at: Museum of Latin American Art and Craft and Folk Art Museum (pay what you can)

Schedule courtesy of We Like LA

21 Things to do This November in Los Angeles 

Need stuff to do this month in Los Angeles?

November 2017 event highlights include a big day of free events in DTLA, a beer circus, Inglewood Open Studios, a VR Tournament, the Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens, and LOTS more.

Enjoy!

1. 24th Street Theatre’s Free Dia de los Muertos Block Party (Nov. 2)

Downtown Los Angeles’ 24th Street Theater will host its 12th Annual Dia de los Muertos Festival on November 2. This festive block party will feature performances, crafts, food, vendors, face painting, altar decoration and fun! -> More information

2. Festival of Flight at Long Beach Airport (Nov. 4)

Long Beach Airport’s annual Festival of Flight, a free community celebration featuring aircraft on static display, food trucks, a beer garden, and live music, returns November 4. -> More information

3. Grand Ave Arts: All Access in Downtown L.A. (Nov. 4)

The third annual Grand Ave Arts: All Access returns to Downtown L.A. November 4 for the ultimate playground for arts and culture. 10 cultural institutions will participate in a free day of talks, rehearsals, tours, exhibits, and more. -> More information

4. The Lagunitas Beer Circus at the Fairplex in Pomona (Nov. 4)

The circus is coming! On November 4, the Fairplex will be overrun with newly released beers, two stages with live music, lawn games, food trucks and more! -> More information

5. 44th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration in Boyle Heights (Nov. 4)

The FREE community event will feature a Dia de los Muertos procession, traditional ceremony blessing, food and craft vendors, face painting, and art workshops. -> More information

6. DOPIUM.LA — A FREE Cultural Festival in Chinatown (Nov. 4)

The FREE one-night art festival celebrates Asian American expression through food, music and never-before-seen art exhibits. -> More information

7. AFI Fest 2017 (Nov. 9-16)

The annual AFI FEST returns to Hollywood for 2017 with an eight-day run featuring over 100 films, including three world premieres and four additional highly anticipated films. -> More information

8. KCRW’s Left, Right & Center Live at the Ace Hotel (Nov. 9)

Host Josh Barro will lead a panel as they look back at a year since the election of President Donald Trump in 2016 – naturally with a side of comedy and wit! -> More information

9. American Indian Arts Marketplace at The Autry Museum (Nov. 11-12)

The American Indian Arts Marketplace comes to The Autry Museum November 11 – 12 for the largest Native arts fair in Southern California, featuring 200 Native American artists representing 40+ tribes. -> More information

10. Inglewood Open Studios: Free Tour of Artists’ Studios & Galleries (Nov. 11-12)

The 11th annual Inglewood Open Studios returns November 11-12 to showcase the professional artist studios and art galleries that constitute the burgeoning Inglewood art community. -> More information

11. Chicano International Film Festival 2017 at Plaza de la Raza (Nov. 11)

The Chicano International Film Festival returns to Los Angeles! Now in its 21st year, the festival will take place on November 11 at Plaza de la Raza Cultural Center in East LA and will give insight into Chicanx culture, lifestyle and expression. -> More information

12. Tropicália Music & Taco Festival at The Queen Mary (Nov. 11)

Hosted on November 11 at The Queen Mary, this one-day festival offers multiple music stages, an impressive live line-up with Los Tigres del Norte headlining, and unlimited taco samplings. -> More information

13. Patchwork Show & Market in Long Beach (Nov. 12)

Stop by the Patchwork Show for some holiday shopping and fun! Highlights include local artisans, D.I.Y. workshops, music, food vendors and more. Admission is free! -> More information

14. MOCA Day Party (Nov. 12)

MOCA will celebrate the recently opened site-specific exhibition, Adrián Villar Rojas: The Theater of Disappearance with a free day at The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA. -> More information

15. VR Tournament: Two Bit Circus at Angel City Brewery (Nov. 15)

Come to Angel City Brewery in Downtown Los Angeles’ Arts District on November 15 for its inaugural season of VR Tournaments. Smashbox Arena will be one of the games featured! Teams of two will compete during a single-elimination round bracket in this amazing mix of dodgeball and first person shooter. There will be no more than ten teams, and it will be first-come, first-served. -> More information

16. Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair Returns to Pasadena (Nov. 18-19)

Check out over 200 handmade makers ranging in products from home décor, food and houseware, to fashion accessories and body products. Admission is free! -> More information

17. The 12th Annual Great Los Angeles Walk (Nov. 18)

Trek the streets of Los Angeles from downtown L.A. to the Westside during this FREE walking tour. Join other Angelenos as you see the sights & walk the streets! -> More information

18. Enchanted: Forest of Light Returns to Descanso Gardens (starts Nov. 19)

Enchanted: Forest of Light will offer guests a colorful one-mile path walk through 10 distinct light displays at unique points within Descanso Garden including the Oak Grove and the Japanese Garden. -> More information

19. The Annual Turkey Trot Los Angeles on Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 23)

Celebrate Thanksgiving morning with a brisk trot with the family! The annual Turkey Trot returns to downtown L.A. with multiple courses and race options! -> More information

20. The First-Ever Arroyo Seco Marketplace at Debs Park in Montecito Heights (Nov. 25)

Hosted for the first time ever, this holiday marketplace features food, music, activities, local vendors and artisans on Small Business Saturday! -> More information

21. Los Angeles County Tree Lighting at DTLA’s Grand Park (Nov. 27)

The official lighting ceremony for L.A. County’s Christmas tree at Grand Park in Downtown Los Angeles, on November 27, will include free hot chocolate and music from Brass Pacifica & the Antelope Valley Master Chorale. -> More information

Rodeo Realty's Beverly Hills agent Tam Nguyen featured in Top Agent Magazine

Rodeo Realty’s Beverly Hills agent, Tam Nguyen, is featured in the Los Angeles’ edition of Top Agent Magazine this month.

The magazine features the foremost real estate agents, mortgage professionals, and affiliates in the USA, Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Top Agent Magazine features the top producing and most accomplished professionals in the real estate industry, offering an in-depth look at their careers and providing a blueprint for their success.

To be considered for a feature in Top Agent Magazine all professionals must go through a nomination and interview process. ALL Candidates are then evaluated based upon production, professionalism, as well as industry and community involvement.

“Tam Nguyen is a stellar example of the kind of prominent leaders of real estate we are proud to feature in Top Agent Magazine,” said the company.

Aside from the six page article, Tam is also on the cover of this month’s magazine.

“Of course, there are certain marketing procedures everyone has to do, but whatever I do has to come from me personally and authentically” said Tam in the feature. “It’s organic,  genuine and incorporate my philosophy of ‘Dream, Believe, SOLD’.”

To read the entire article on Tam, click HERE.

 

Weekend Events: October 20 – 22

Los Angeles provides no limit of things to do, some awesome and some not so awesome.

Since time is precious in this fast paced city we curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles for every weekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).

This weekend (October 20 – October 22) includes, the P-22 Day Festival, Eastside Food Festival, Pancakes & Booze Art Show, Brewery ArtWalk, Burbank Beer Festival, Long Beach Zombie Fest and MUCH more.

Enjoy!

Friday October 20th, 2017

1. The Pancakes & Booze Art Show returns to Lot 613 in DTLA for an underground art show served up with a stack of pancakes! Highlights include local artisans, live music, DJs, live art, body painting, and more.

2. The Second City’s Diversity in Comedy Festival returns October 20-22 offering a platform for diverse, funny talent inside and outside of L.A. Some issues explored will be race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity through performances, panels, and workshops.

3. It’s Oktoberfest at the Pomona Fairplex! Oom-pah music, the Chicken Dance, authentic German brats and brews flown directly from Germany will be on hand to help you party in true Bavarian style. Happening Friday and Saturday. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

4. The WestEdge Design Fair comes to the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica from October 19-22 for a premier contemporary design fair experience. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

5. Multi-sensory, walk-through experience Creep LA returns to the Music Box in DTLA October 5 through November 12. Inspired by the Amazon Prime Exclusive Series Lore the experience is fully engaging, multi-sensory and super-scary, featuring some of pop culture’s most legendary horror myths. Happening Thursdays through Sundays.

6. Wicked Lit  is a spooky immersive theatre experience taking horror literature and turning them into plays at the Mountain View Mausoleum & Cemetery. It happens every Thursday through Sunday from September 28 through November 9. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

7. The 5th annual G2 Green Earth Film Festival heads to Loyola Marymount University for three days of eco-conscious films. FREE

8. Eat|See|Hear returns with Front Porch Cinema, a free movie night below the stars every Friday on Santa Monica Pier from September 29 through October 27. The fall film series will also feature music, drinks, and bites before each screening. This week they’ll screen Beauty & the BeastFREE

9. BlueCollar Working Dog will host a HELLHOUNDS PACK WALK around the Echo Park Lake this Friday. The evening walk will include goodie bags, a piñata filled with dog treats, human snacks, contests and prizes.

10. Checkout The Nightmare Before Christmas with 4-D Effects at El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood October 20-31. Check for discount tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

11. Odd Nights At The Autry feature a collection of over 200 vendors, 20 gourmet food trucks, a beer garden, custom handmade treasures and live local bands.

12. 260 Sample Sale LA returns with a 3.1 Philip Lim sample sale at their Beverly Hills store October 18-22. Offering what they call “far below retail prices” the sale will have women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, accessories and the brands shoe collection.

13. Starlight Bowl in Burbank will host NIGHT TERRORS a haunted maze. In addition to the maze there will be face painting, games, food trucks, spooky campfire stories and much more.

14. Knott’s Scary Farm is back with their signature haunted attractions, mazes and thousands of monsters ready to scare the living day light out of you and your crew. Be sure to check for discount tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

15. The Long Beach Zombie Fest returns with Zombie Walk on October 20-22 at the Rainbow Lagoon. Event highlights include a scavenger hunt, haunted maze, free make-up services, horror films and the infamous zombie walk. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

16. Climb aboard the 17th Annual Ghost Train in Griffith Park on October 13-31 and ride on their iconic train into a spooky setting of animatronics, projections and pyrotechnic. The ride is family friendly with no blood, gore or actors jumping out to scare you like most Halloween experiences.

17. Head to Torrance for one of the most well-known Oktoberfest celebrations in the L.A. area! Alpine Village Oktoberfest runs September 8 through October 28 every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy traditional Bavarian food, beer, dancing, and more.

18. The Sivley family is back for their 46th year of hosting the award winning, Beware the Dark Realm a haunted house experience in the city of Santa Clarita. Haunt kicks off this Satruday and will run every Friday and Saturday thorough the month. FREE

19. After multiple sold-out performances in New York, Boston and Los Angeles, Feathers of Fire: A Persian Epic will make its debut at The Wallis in Beverly Hills. Feathers of Fire is a dazzling show of shadow puppetry “live animation” of a 10th-century book of Persian poetry played out on a cinema-size screen. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

20. The Queen Mary Ghost presents Ghost & Legends a new year-round experience perfect for thrill seekers and scare enthusiasts. Climb aboard the haunted RMS Queen Mary and test your fears inside the massive interactive and immersive haunted attraction.

21. Get ready to shriek, because Urban Death: Tour of Terror is back at Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre Group in North Hollywood. This haunted theater attraction features a terrifying performance and a maze of inexplicable horrors, unfathomable monstrosities, and the disturbing spirits that walk among us. Happening every Friday and Saturday this month. Check for discount tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

22. Silent Classic Horror Festival will host a month long fright fest. This week the 1923 film The Cabinet of Dr. Caligri will be screened at Old Town Music Hall located in El Segundo. The festival takes place every Friday through Sunday.

23. The folks at Rooftop Cinema Club are back with two screenings at their rooftop locations. War For The Planet Of The Ape at LEVEL in Downtown Los Angeles and The Babadook at Montalban in Hollywood.

Saturday October 21st, 2017

24. The Third Annual Burbank Beer Festival & Street Fair returns to the streets of Downtown Burbank for one of the largest celebrations of craft beer in L.A. Entry to the street fair and main stage entertainment is free and open to all ages. Craft beer tasting sessions are ticketed and includes a 3- ounce tasting glass and craft beer samples from 45+ different breweries.

25. Sunland-Tunjunga Open Studios happening October 21-22, is a free guided weekend tour of local art studios and creative venues from over 40 artists in 17 different locations in the San Fernando Valley. FREE

26. The first Clean Food Fest heads to the California Market Center on October 21-22 for a health-centered festival that celebrates clean, sustainable, beyond-organic, allergen-free food.

27. Oktoberfest DTLA returns to Pershing Square on October 21-22 for two days beer tastings, traditional bratwursts and pretzels to fusion eats, live music and plenty of dancing. Admission is free and guests interested in the tastings can purchase packages that range from $15-65.

28. The free Beverly Hills artSHOW happening on October 21-22 will showcase over 245 artists ranging from pantings and sculptures to ceramics and jewelry on display across four blocks. FREE

29.  The first-ever Halloween Film Pestival hosted by Western Exterminator at the Los Feliz 3 is all about creepy crawlers. Expect bug themed activities such as a cricket-eating contest, alongside classic film screenings like Bee MovieThe Ant BullyThe FlyEight Legged Freaks and more. FREE

30. Experience a sophisticated yet creepy pre-Halloween evening during Night of 1.000 Devils. Billed as an “immersive horror soiree.” Guests will enjoy cocktails, dark burlesque performances, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, a dark disco and more.

31. Esotouric Bus presents Raymond Chandler’s Los Angeles Bus Tour. Spend a Saturday afternoon exploring the tough streets of L.A. through the famous crime writers eyes. There’s also a stop for Chandler-themed gelato. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

32. The Skirball Family Sleepover aboard Noah’s Ark will take place this Saturday. Dinner and access to all fall exhibits are included in your ticket.

33. Pop-Up Magazine is a night filled with true, multimedia storytelling with stunning visuals, film, and live music. Listen to writers, filmmakers, photographers and producers share their stories at the Theatre at The Ace.

34. There’s a classic scary movie screening at the Heritage Square Museum this Saturday. Pack a picnic and catch the 1953 flick It Came From Outer Space in 3-D!

35. Boo at the L.A. Zoo returns for a spooktacular season. Highlights include a “Nocturnal Adventure” maze,  “Animals and Boo” creepy crawler encounters, pumpkin-carving demos and other family-oriented fun.

36. The Brewery ArtWalk returns for its fall edition on October 21-22 with works from over 100 participating resident artists in mediums including video, painting, performance, ceramics, interior, fashion, multi-media and more. Entry and parking are free. FREE

37Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch at Platform LA happening October 6-30 in DTLA features a fun spooky space for families to celebrate Halloween. Highlights include; an interactive pumpkin village; straw maze; a giant rocking horse ride; Mr. Bones’ Super Slide; a Jumpin’ Pumpkin and more. Happening Thursday and through the weekend.

38. The Native Plant Sale comes to The Autry’s ethnobotanical garden in Griffith Park this Saturday. Get an education on plants from ethnobotanist/educator/plant curator Nicholas Hummingbird (Cahuilla-Apache) and take home a California Native plant yourself.

39. The Strut Your Mutt fundraiser is a chance to enjoy a brisk walk with your furry friend while benefiting those dogs who have yet to find a home. The benefit walk will take place at Exposition Park.

40. There’s a Great Pumpkin Hunt happening at the South Coast Botanic Garden from October 1 through November 30 everyday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Highlights include an imaginative scavenger hunt, light hiking, a pumpkin shop and access to the gorgeous 87-acre grounds. Great for families. Halloween costumes are welcome.

41. Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles will host a public opening of ‘Mike Kelley: Kandors 1999 – 2011’ The exhibition is the most comprehensive survey of Kelley’s last body of work. The reception is free to attend, food and drinks will be provided by Manuela and music courtesy of MOON UTERUS. FREE

42. Westfield Topanga will host UNCORKED this Saturday. Enjoy a day of champagne, wine and food tastings benefiting The Foundation for Los Virgenes Schools. In addition on Sunday, they’ll host UNCASKED , a craft beer and food tasting event. Tickets cost $30 per person for admission to one event and $50 per person to attend both events.

43. The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor will transform into a seaport of the damned for the Halloween season with terrifying mazes and monsters at every turn like the Iron Master and Graceful Gale. This year they’ll reveal their newest member of the crew, his name is Chef and he’s got a carnivorous kitchen staff with a big appetite. Happening Thursday and through the weekend. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

44. The 5th annual FandangObon festival returns to Little Tokyo’s Japanese American Cultural & Community Center (JACCC) on October 21-22. Get ready for a multicultural experience featuring live music, dance performances, art, food, a farmers’ market, environmental workshops, and more. FREE

45. The Los Angeles Haunted Hayride returns to The Old Zoo in Griffith Park from September 29 to October 31. This years theme is “Clown” and features four different freaky zones, a slew of demonic clowns, a corn maze and more. Check for discount tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED(via Goldstar)

46. Halloween Horror Nights taking place at Universal Studios Hollywood will immerse guests in a three-dimensional world of terror featuring a new slate of mazes, scare zones and a newly designed “Terror Tram” experience. Themes include American Horror Story, The Shining, SAW, Insidious and more.

Sunday October 22nd, 2017

47. P-22 Day Festival returns to Griffith Park for a day long celebration of the beloved mountain lion. The festival will have a photo booth, a VR experience, nature hikes with park rangers, live music, food and much more. FREE

48. If you love art books, you’ll want to go check out the 2nd Annual A.G. Geiger Art Book Fair, taking place in Chinatown. This free event unites artists, booksellers and fine arts enthusiasts in historic Chung King Plaza for live performances, shopping and exhibitors.

49. Maple Block will throw another Blocktoberfest, an all-you-can-eat barbecue affair where $55 gets you unlimited smoked meats, sausages, hot dogs, brisket chili, and delicous sides. A beer garden, ice cream, fun activities, live music and more will round out the day.

50. The Eastside Food Festival returns to Mack Sennett Studios with some of the best eastside eats in L.A. This year, the fest will include unlimited tastings from over 35 local food and beverage vendors, cooking demonstrations, discussion panels, live music, live podcast and more. Ticket cost $65 for general admission and $95 for VIP.

51. Topanga Vintage Market hits Pierce College in Woodland Hills this Sunday. Expect over 170 of LA’s best vintage, antiques, and collectibles dealers.

52. Roxana Jullapat of Friends & Family will host Bakers Will Bake this Sunday at The Hollywood’s Farmers Market from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Now in its fifth year, Jullapat’s annual bake sale fundraiser will benefit The Farm to Face Environmental Program at Thomas Starr King Middle School, specifically Ms. Jones’ gardening and environmental studies program.

53. Throughout the month of October, Westbound will host double-feature screenings of cult classic Halloween flicks on their back patio every Sunday night as well as on Friday the 13th and Halloween. Screenings begin at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. This Saturday they’ll host screenings of Young Frankenstein and Killer Klowns from Outer Space.

Schedule provided by We Like LA.

64-Story Condo Tower Next to FIGat7th could get underway by 2019

In June—on the very same day the 73-story Wilshire Grand opened to the public—developer Brookfield Properties filed plans to construct a new 64-story skyscraper right across the street.

Now, the Los Angeles Department of City Planning has released an initial study that offers new details about the project and gives an idea of when we can expect to see it rise. According to preliminary plans, construction on the tower would get underway in 2019 and wrap up in 2023.

The huge new development would be built at 945 West Eight Street, immediately west of the FIGat7th shopping center. It’s set to include 781 residential condos, plus 6,700 square feet of retail space. The tower would sit atop an 11-floor podium, which would be partially underground and would include commercial space and parking for 831 cars and 867 bikes.

Marmol-Radziner and Large Architecture are designing the project, which would have a neatly contemporary design with walls of glass and plenty of balcony space for residents. Planned amenities include a swimming pool, a fitness room, “indoor and outdoor recreational space,” and a community room.

In addition to these private amenities, the project would also incorporate publicly accessible open space, including an outdoor plaza that could include seating for a possible restaurant.

The development may not be the only new tower popping up in the area. On the other side of Figueroa Street, developer Mitsui Fudosan America plans to construct a 43-story high-rise with 436 rental units and 10,000 square feet of commercial space.

Rendering courtesy Brookfield 

Story by Curbed. 

Paint & Sip & Help This Thursday At The Grove

On Thursday, October 12, enjoy an unforgettable night with Derek Hough and his mom, Marriann, to benefit Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

The painting party, ‘Paint & Sip & Help,’ will take place at The Grove in the park and begins at 6 p.m. Canvas, paint, and brushes will provided.

Guests will receive instruction from Mariann on how to paint a beautiful landscape while also enjoying small bites, wine and cocktails.

Tickets are on sale and begin at $50. VIP Admission is $150. Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite, HERE.

100% of ticket proceeds will benefit Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

World Cup May Come To The U.S. In 2026

Soccer fever came in waves in L.A. during the 1990s, when the Rose Bowl hosted the men’s World Cup final in 1994, and the women’s World Cup final in 1999. And now there’s a chance that the men’s World Cup will make a return to the Southland in 2026, and may even pass through other U.S. cities like Chicago, New York City, San Francisco, and Washington D.C.

This comes as part of a joint bid put forth by the soccer federations in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Basically, all three countries are teaming up to be one big hosting site for the 2026 World Cup (we imagine that the travel would be grueling for players, but whatever). Currently, Morocco is the only other country to have submitted a bid, reports the L.A. Times. The winner is expected to announced in June 2018.

According to Starsandstripes FC, a fan site for the U.S. men’s national team, 25 American cities are currently listed in the bid. They include the usual names like Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington D.C., the Bay Area, and the New York/New Jersey area. Other intriguing contenders include Nashville and Atlanta (which is apparently super into soccer). Meanwhile four cities from Canada and three from Mexico are also included in the list.

According to the Times, those names are expected to be trimmed down to 12 or less in the final process of the bid. And, if the bid goes through, the matches will be played at those 12 or so venues spread across the three countries. This seems kind of insane, but one thing to take into consideration is that FIFA, or the International Federation of Association Football, intends to expand the competition pool to 48 participating nations, which would make the 2026 World Cup the largest in the tournament’s history.

Certainly, if the World Cup does return to L.A., we’ll have a wide number of venues to select from. Aside from favorites like the Rose Bowl and the Coliseum, we’ll also have the upcoming Inglewood stadium that’s slated to host both the Rams and the Chargers. And could Dodger Stadium be a sleeper pick? NYCFC, one of New York’s teams in Major League Soccer, plays at Yankee Stadium, so maybe the idea isn’t quite as outlandish as it sounds. Though Dodger Stadium wouldn’t be able to pack in as many people as the other stadiums, so the chances are probably nil.

The next World Cups will be played in Russia (2018) and Qatar (2022).

Story by LAist.