Out and About: Abbot Kinney Edition

Everyone’s favorite hipster neighborhood is your new go to spot. Or at least it will be for delicious fare, specialized shops, and a proper daily dose of art after your read below. Spend your day in Abbot Kinney and…

Take some time to step outside your neck of the woods.

In the morning…

Gjelina

If you are lucky enough to snag a primetime reservation, we recommend starting your morning or early afternoon off at Gjelina. The Venice hotspot is constantly buzzing and the food is other worldly.

The Beach Life

Venice, CA

After you have fully food charged make your way over to the famed Venice Boardwalk. From colorful locals to unique speciality shops, and designer residences. You’ll find everything you need from sites, sounds, and a true feast for the senses.

Go Surf LA

Always wanted to try surfing? Go Surf LA provides year round lessons at the pier with wetsuit and board rental available starting at $80 per lesson.

During your afternoon…

“Shopper’s paradise”

Abbot Kinney Shops

Once you have filled up on seaside fun head back over to AK’s boutique paradise. Named by GQ’s “Style Bible” as “The Coolest Block in America”, Abbot Kinney Blvd is teaming with a vibrant collection of shops from vintage wear to modern designers. Stop at Tina Wakino’s Bazar, a mix of classic and expertly chosen pieces. The shop as been a Venice staple for more than 15 years with finds like Indigo-dyed textiles, furniture, jewelry, and other antique objets d’art.

Warby Parker

Need a new pair of shades? Warby Parker’s West Coast flagship store is a beachy eyewear haven. The interior of the boutique is the perfect coastal ambience you’d expect in a Venice shop with artwork by Geoff McFetridge. What’s better about this optical option over the rest is that with each purchase of eyewear , Warby Parker donates a pair of glasses to charity.

Midday cravings

Salt Air

Now that you’ve seen a little and shopped a little, it’s time for an afternoon bite! It wouldn’t quite be a day by the sea without some oceanic cuisine. Salt Air has you covered. With their Connecticut-style lobster roll or perfectly poached flaky salmon you’ll feel refined and refreshed at the same time. Pair these menu pick’s along with a serving of summery shelling beans and charred shisito peppers and we will need a new word to describe ourselves other than stuffed.

So much time for activities!…

With appetites accommodated and shopping goals met, it’s time for a midday stroll to work off that Lobster Roll. The Venice Canals serve as the quintessential afternoon reprieve.

Venice Canals

Built in 1905 by the Abbot Kinney himself as part of his “Venice of America” plan, once wondered all the way through Venice Blvd. Registered as a Historic landmark in 1982, the canals reach is a bit shorter but the journey through is just as wonderful. Stroll along visitor friendly pathways of the luxury homes that line this Venice staple.

Beyond Baroque

Before your evening begins, a trip to Beyond Baroque is almost entirely necessary. The Arts Center is considered one of the most famous literary incubators in the country. Founded by George Dury in 1968, the center is housed in the former Venice City Hall building. The nonprofit public space is used to cultivate  and expand the public’s knowledge of newfound literary art. They do so through poetry, fiction, literature and art through cultural events and community interaction.

As the sun sets…

Scopa

If your tuckered out on activities, consider your evening guide a much needed rest. Abbot Kinney is known for many things, and its cuisine truly pushes the threshold of being number one. From aforementioned go-to’s like Gjelina to celebrity hotspots like Scopa and The Butchers Daughter, your palette can do no wrong. We recommend stepping outside the norm and into the vegetable box to be exact.

Plant Food and Wine

Plant Food & Wine from Chef Matthew Kenney is a sleek vegan restaurant on the quit end of AK. And while you might say your no Vegan, to that we say it all depends on what you get. From the kimchi dumplings being almost too pretty to eat to the carrot soup being almost too good to not order three more rounds, you’ll leave plant-based satisfied.

Salt & Straw

Finish up on a sweet note at craft creamery Salt & Straw. The artisanal ice cream shop is a Portland transplant with an extensive menu boosting flavors both sinful and curious. Try the Almond brittle and Slated Ganache or go for true Cali style  with a scoop of Avocado Strawberry Sherbet. Can’t decide on just one? For $10 guest can have an ice cream flight of four flavors from the classic and seasonal menus.

Sherman Oaks agents give back with Thanksgiving food drive

Brandon Kramer, Ryan Trefry, Kathy Gardner, Brian Gardner, and Jim Wagner decided to hold another food drive this year.

 
“It is our favorite time of year to give back to the less fortunate,” said Trefry.

Through their 5th Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, the Sherman Oaks’ agents gathered more than 2,800 pounds of food! Each agent collected from their farming areas which included, Lake Balboa, Sherman Oaks, and Winnetka. All goods went to the Valley Food Bank in Pacoima.


 
“Thank you and your team for all your extra efforts to help families in need –we are thankful for you,” said Director of the Valley Food Bank, William Hernandez.

 

 

Rodeo Realty Giving Back To The Homeless

Throughout the year, Rodeo Realty takes part in giving back and helping many organizations.

For example, in November, Rodeo Realty is helping the homeless. This year, the company is giving back by helping The People Concern. Many Rodeo Realty agents are volunteering and preparing meals to feed the homeless. The People Concern helps families, as well as many others who have nowhere else to turn.

In addition to that, Rodeo Realty is sponsoring The Great Thanksgiving Banquet. The Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission puts this annual event together. Homeless individuals will be bused to the Help Center in the Valley where they will enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving meal. Rodeo Realty agents are giving back by volunteering their time to feed the less fortunate.

 

Rodeo Realty’s Josh Flagg and Adi Livyatan featured in Los Angeles Business Journal

Top producing agents Josh Flagg (Rodeo Realty Beverly Hills) and Adi Livyatan (Rode Realty Sherman Oaks) were both recently featured in Los Angeles Business Journal’s “Who’s Brokering Los Angeles” segment.

Josh Flagg- Josh Flagg Ent. and Rodeo Realty Beverly Hills

Josh Flagg’s success as “one of America’s most successful and sought-after Luxury real estate agents, having complete $2 Billion in residential real estate sales in the past 13 years” was among their notable remarks. Adding his 2012 Forbes 30 under 30 honor and recent Hollywood Reporter and WSJ distinctions as attributes of his work. Also making mention was his high-profile clientele base by stating that “Flagg has been the agent for many of Hollywood’s biggest names, including Merv Griffin, Adam Levine, Steve Aoki, Shonda Rhymes, and Chicago’s Robert Lamm to name a few.”

Adi Livyatan- Rodeo Realty Encino

Adi received recognition on her success in being one of the top realtors for “Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate “and on being one of the country’s top realtors nationwide. Other mentions included her various and consecutive honors including winning the Presidents Circle Elite award and one of a very select group of awardees who won the Chairman’s Award for production in 2015, 2016, and 2017. Additionally, noted was Adi’s features this year like her most recent place in Real Trends Top 250.

Both agents were regarded as among those leading the pack in real estate nationwide as well as being the top producing agents for their distinctive offices. The Los Angeles Business Journal also noted Josh and Adi’s relentless commitment and level of service to their client base as well as their highly regarded work ethic in the real estate market.

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.

Caffe Luxxe

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…

George Sturges House

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.

The Getty Center

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.

Farmshop

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…

Skirball Cultural Center

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.

Tavern

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.

Tis the Season for…the Holidays in LA pt.1

As fall turns into winter…or in LA as the weather chills down enough for you to justify your faux fur coat purchase that you’ll likely wear 2x out of the year, the city of stars also gives a bounty of fun to-do during the Holiday season.

From moonlit walks through festively strewn parks to annual magic at the happiest place on earth, add some cheery spice to your Thanksgiving through Christmahanakwanzika line-up.

Moonlight Forest

October 26th-January 6th

Aboretum’s Moonlight Forest

Location: The Arboretum, Arcadia

Enjoy the wonder of the season at the Arboretum’s Moonlight Forest, a full fledged winter spectacle for all ages. The event debuted at the end of October but churns on well into the new year featuring art, food trucks, “adult beverages, and a whole lot of fun.

Disney’s Festival of Holidays

Festive Holidays at Disneyland

November 9th- January 6th

Location: Disneyland and California Adventure, Anaheim

So this one is a given. There is nothing quite like celebrating the Holiday season at the happiest place on earth. From cinnamon scented “snow” flurrying through the air at the close of the holiday parade to Mickey’s jolly best, Disneyland is a festive no-brainer. A celebration of ALL holiday traditions is represented throughout both parks as the perfect day of fun for the entire family.

Pershing Square Ice Rink

Pershing Square Ice Rink

November 15th-January 21st

Location: Downtown

Certainly, one does not have to be Michelle Kwan or Adam Rippon to enjoy a day or night on the ice. That being said, Pershing Square’s DJ-led free skate sessions set the scene for their outdoor ice rink in the middle of DTLA.

Reindeer Village at the LA Zoo

Reindeer Village

November 16th-January 6th

Location: Griffith Park

How old were you when you found out Reindeer are real? If your answer is today years old, your welcome(if not congratulations on knowing your mammal species) and also your in luck. This holiday season you’ll find your antlered friends hanging out in Reindeer Village at Griffith Park. Along with Comet and Blitzen as the main attraction, the zoo will also be decked in bells of holly. Just Kidding. But it will be decorated in winter splendor during Zoo Lights, which includes NYE festivities, a happy hour lounge and more.

Turkey Trot

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

Queen Mary Christmas

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.

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.

Los Angeles County Tree Lighting

November 26

L.A. County Tree Lighting

Location:  Grand Park

Looking for more things to do this month?  Head down to Grand Park to see the official L.A. County Holiday Tree lit up in a special ceremony. One of the most noteworthy events, the tree lighting ceremony is scheduled from November 26 from 5:30 – 8 p.m., and will include performances from local artists and community groups. Also, the event is free and all ages are invited to attend. For more details on this event, click HERE.

Langham Winter Festival

November 25th

Langham Winter Festival

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.

Here & Nows Blitzen

November 27-December 31st

Here and Now

Location: Arts District, DTLA

A fun winter pop-up helmed by Va’La Hospitality and Westbound’s original founder Sarah Meade, is Here & Now. The holiday themed limited engagement in DTLA’s Art district will feature a snow machine, themed entertainment and all the spiked hot cocoa and festive bites you can consume. Just remember to celebrate responsibly!

Wine Winter Wonderland

Wine Winter Wonderland

November 30th

Location: Hotel Constance, Pasadena

Holidays arrive early with this Wine enthusiast treat. Enjoy access to unlimited wine tastings(and some beer options) along with tasty bites at this vino centric festival at Pasadena’s Hotel Constance.

Looking for Pt.2? You’ll have to stay tuned until Dec. 1st for more on the Holidays in LA. So put away the festive decor, we haven’t even fried the Turkey yet!