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LA Eats: July 4th Recipes

We know what you’re thinking. It’s not quite L.A. Eats if you have to DIY. Here in the city of stars, if you’re not partaking in the usual revelry, an at home fete is the most ideal. We know there are plenty of day parties from The Bungalow to The W. But if you prefer your own Independence Day celebration, we have you covered. Not on your own attempt at bunting (good luck), but as the Chef de Cuisine of your home. So read on for our round-up of what to dish out July 4th, you’ve got a week to prep your red, white, and blue spread.

 

  • Gina’s Orzo Salad

If you are looking for a quick and easy centerpiece for your picnic this summer, you might want to try Gina’s Orzo Salad recipe!

Click here for the recipe.

  • Easy Peach Cobbler

Those who love peach cobbler but don’t know how to make it will fall in love with this simple recipe!

Click here for the recipe.

  • American Flag Caprese Salad

Create an American flag centerpiece using fresh mozzarella, purple potatoes and tomatoes.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Grilled Corn with Lime Butter

If you enjoy corn from places like the LA County Fair or Knott’s Berry Farm, then you’ll love this delicious recipe that is simple to create.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Old Bay Shrimp

You’ll want to try this five-minute flavorful shrimp seasoning recipe that allows you to explore herbs and spices!

Click here for the recipe.

  •  Citrus-Spangled Spritzer

Backyard barbecues just got a star-spangled makeover with this patriotic citrus spritzer. Vibrant red, white and blue hues make it stand out from other 4th of July cocktails. Simply layer ingredients for a striking drink that will please any crowd, even in summer heat.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Red, White and Blue Wine Spritzer

White wine spritzers are a classic summer beverage for a reason. Add some blue and red and you’ve got yourself a killer cocktail for America’s birthday.

Click here for the recipe.

  •  Snow Cone Drinks

This drink is equal parts nostalgia and party-in-a-glass. Slightly on the sweeter side, we wouldn’t have too many or you made need an extra day off on the 5th.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Popsicle Cocktails

Stock up on popsicles and bubbly so you can enjoy this effortless, celebratory drink at a moment’s notice.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Firecracker Jell-O Cups

Who knew patriotism could fit into such a small cup? Add some vodka to each layer to turn the kid-friendly snack into a grown-ups-only shot.

Click here for the recipe.

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Out and About: July 4 Fireworks Celebrations

July 4th is almost here! While this years celebration of independence doesn’t fall on a weekend, there’s still plenty of fireworks to see. Per usual we have happily rounded up all the best places in and around L.A. to catch your sparkly show. So read on for a July 4th Edition of Out and About and ditch the at home sparklers and firework set.

Cinespia Presents E.T. + Fireworks

Location: Hollywood Forever Cemetery, 6000 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90038

Enjoy the Steven Spielberg classic film E.T. with a special showing on the 4th of July at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Families will also be treated to a fireworks show! Pack a picnic or take advantage of the concession stands on-site. Gates open at 7:15 pm. Tickets are available online.

More info.

Grand Park

Location: 200 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Downtown’s free Fourth of July block party is back for another year, with live music and more than 40 food trucks kicking the day off at 3 p.m. before fireworks begin at 9 p.m.

More info.

Rose Bowl Stadium

Location: 1001 Rose Bowl Dr., Pasadena, CA 91103

For sheer patriotism, try the Rose Bowl’s annual AmericaFest event (somewhat ironically sponsored by Japanese automaker Honda). The all-day event features food, live music, motorcycle stunts, a Michael Jackson tribute, and, of course, fireworks. Ride the Gold Line and take the free shuttle to avoid the parking lot.

More info.

The Hollywood Bowl

Location: 2301 N Highland Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90068

At the Hollywood Bowl, you’ll get three chances to celebrate Independence Day. The venue is hosting evening performances on July 2, 3, and 4 followed by a fireworks display. This year, the LA Philharmonic will be joined by ’80s girl group The Go-Gos. If you’re not interested in the music, just head to the Hollywood Bowl Overlook for views of the fireworks.

More info.

The Queen Mary

Location: 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, CA 90802

An English ocean liner might seem like an odd place to celebrate American independence, but those looking for an up-close view of a great fireworks show could do far worse than the Queen Mary’s Fourth of July festivities. Tickets start at $44. If that’s too much, the fireworks can be easily seen from nearby Alamitos Beach.

More info.

Griffith Observatory

Location: 2800 E Observatory Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027

Will it be a crowded mess? Of course! But the views are worth it. The DASH shuttle runs until 10 p.m., and parking is otherwise $4 per hour, but you could always ditch the car and hike there, too.

More info.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Location: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608

Universal Studios Hollywood lights up the night sky with its first-ever July 4th fireworks celebration, inviting guests to enjoy a spectacular aerial display that will take place in multiple locations within the theme park. As the spirit of Independence Day sweeps across the theme park, guests can toast the day by enjoying the theme park’s many popular rides and attractions, before the festive pyrotechnics extravaganza, synchronized to a score of Universal-themed music and patriotic favorites, beginning at 9:30pm.

More info.

ExpositionPark

Location: 700 Exposition Park Dr., Los Angeles, CA

Exposition Park hosts a day of free family fun in honor of our country’s birthday. The fun begins at 11:00 am and features “live music, delectable food and activities for the entire family at this picnic style event.” Fireworks begin at dusk (about 9:00 pm). Parking information is available online; however, since parking is so limited families are encouraged to Go Metro.

More info.

Starlight Bowl

Location: 1249 Lockheed View Dr., Burbank, CA 91501

Enjoy a performance by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy at the Starlight Bowl. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy has been making music for over 25 years and is ready to get you up and dancing on the 4th of July! Parking opens at 4:30 pm, gates open at 5:30 pm, and the concert begins at 6:30 pm. Buy your tickets early to ensure good seats for the musical show as well as the fireworks! Tickets are available online.

More info.

Warner Ranch Park

Location: 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Councilman Bob Blumenfield’s July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza is happening from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm. Enjoy a free concert and 15-minute fireworks display. Local restaurants and arts and crafts vendors will be selling their goods as well. The event is free, and parking fees serve as a donation to the Valley Cultural Foundation.

More info.

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Weekend Events: June 28-June 30

The weekend is here and so is your list of fun things to do! With so many activities to chose from in and around L.A., there’s no excuse to not venture out. Ditch your mundane routine and check out all that the city of stars has to offer this weekend!

Discover Your Inner Angeleno!

Friday, June 28

Game Changers Outdoor Theatre 

Location: Ford Theatre, Hollywood

 The Game Changers Outdoor Movie Screening Series will showcase four-nights of groundbreaking cinema and television underneath the stars. Presented by the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, the goal of the series is to showcase media that has impacted diversity and narrative storytelling in monumental ways. The weekend will open with Boyz N The Hood, followed by Toy Story, Stranger Things 3 and Thelma and Louise.

Click here for more info.

Dance DTLA

Location: The Music Center, DTLA

Featuring live music and/or DJs, Dance DTLA is paired alongside expert dance instructors who will be providing beginner group dance lessons for attendees. Each night has a different dance theme. The series continues with a Bachata theme on the Grand Park Performance Lawn. Dance DTLA continues on select Fridays through August 30.

Click here for more info.

Louis Vuitton X

Location: Louis Vuitton, Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills

Louis Vuitton’s latest art exhibition titled “Louis Vuitton X” will have the fashion house digging into their archives to reveal the brand’s most notable collaborations throughout the years. From Karl Lagerfeld, Rei Kawakubo, Yayoi Kusama to Richard Prince, fans of Louis Vuitton will have a chance to view over 180 items including creations dating back to the early twentieth-century. “Louis Vuitton X” will be on view from June 28 to September 15.

Click here for more info.

Saturday, June 29

Stranger Things Carnival

Location: Pacific Park, Santa Monica Pier

A Stranger Things-themed Carnival lands at Santa Monica Pier June 29-30 where Pacific Park will be made over as the fictional town Hawkins where the show is based. Highlights at this free carnival include games, 80s cover bands, eating contests, magicians, a Scoops Ahoy ice cream truck and a green-n-gooey dunking booth.

Click here for more info.

Garden Party at the Norton Museum

Location: Norton Simon Museum

The Norton Simon Museum will host a summer garden party soirée during magic hour on June 29. There will be sounds and sights in the Sculpture Garden inspired by Monet’s Giverny plus live music, refreshments and art-making activities for all ages. The event is free with the cost of museum admission. Museum admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and free for children under 18, students with I.D., and museum members.

Click here for more info.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix in Concert

Location: The Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl presents Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix in Concert. Watch as Harry and his friends battle the Dark Lords forces right under the stars with a live performance of the original score by the orchestra will sitting in one of the best amphitheaters in the United States.

Click here for more info.

Sunday, June 30

One City One Pride LGBTQ Arts Festival

Location: West Hollywood City Council Chambers, Weho

One City One Pride LGBTQ Arts Festival is a 40-day celebration through mostly free art events and exhibits between May 22 through June 30. This Sunday will be centered around a day of art with poetry pop-ups, readings, performances, panels.

Click here for more info.

SAMJAM Block Party

Location: Venice

SAMJAM Venice Block Party is one of the largest music events on the Westside of Los Angeles, focused on music, art, community, and charity. Food trucks, drinks, live art, and fun games round out this popular annual event.

Click here for more info.

St. Andrews Community Music Festival

Location: St. Andrews Park

The Annual Jazz At St. Andrews Park is a free event with live musical performances, a children’s village, dancing, food trucks and a vendor village.

Click here for more info.

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Josh Flagg List Writer-Producer Wellesley Wilds’ BH Abode

Josh Flagg list Family Guy Writer-Producer Wellesley Wilds’ Beverly Hills Post Office area home.

 

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif.(June 21, 2019)-Featured in the Los Angeles Times , the East Coast Inspired Beverly Hills home of Wellesley Wild has hit the market. Josh Flagg of Rodeo Realty Beverly Hills holds the listing, which is for sale at $5.995 million.

Described as a Traditional home, the estate boast 5,000 square feet of living space. The two-story abode has six bedrooms and 6.5 bathrooms that offer a comforting scenery. Offering features described by the LA Times as “Picture Windows bring leafy views into the living and dining rooms”.

The homes additional features include white wainscoting, walnut hardwood floors and a chef’s grade kitchen which connects to a family room. The estate has every luxury feature one might need. Set behind gates on nearly a half acre, the home is nothing short of stunning.

The outdoors is just as comforting and serene. With a wide brick-paved porch outside the family room gives way to a swimming pool and spa set into a flat, grassy yard tucked into a landscaped slope with a serpentine path that’s lined with fragrant rose bushes.

The LA Times goes on to not Wilds successful Hollywood career as a writer and Producer. Noting  “Wilds writing credits that include “The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn,” the sitcom “Dads,” and the films “Ted” and “Ted 2. Last year, he was reportedly hired as the executive producer and showrunner of the upcoming “Animaniacs” reboot.” 

2578 HUTTON Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 is listed at $5,995,000.

About Josh Flagg
Josh Flagg likes setting records. Within the first four years of his career, Josh participated in four record sales, three of which are in our own city of Beverly Hills.
Josh recently participated in the highest sale in the history of Brentwood Park. He also participated in the highest priced sales on Foothill Road, Monovale Drive and Roxbury Drive.
Josh is also one of the stars of Bravo TVs Million Dollar Listing, returning for its seventh season this year.
He pampers his clients… said one local Realtor, In a way I have never seen before and I’ve been in the business for 25 years. I’ve seen Josh send chauffeured cars to his clients’ homes and send his clients up in helicopters to view properties. The best thing I have seen Josh do, though, was wrap an entire house in a big red bow before delivering the keys to the new owners. He is very creative, and that is why he is so successful. In Josh’s mind, there are no limitations.
Flagg does do more than sell real estate though. He also is a world traveler, having been to more than 50 countries. If you ever want to know where to stay in a particular city, just ask him.
He will not only give you a few choices, but he will tell you which particular rooms to request!
My funniest experience so far was when I fell into the pool of a client’s house in the middle of a showing, clothes, jewelry and all! Well I couldn’t let that slow me down, so I put on the owners robe, threw on some slippers and continued the showing. The buyers sent me a pair of swim-trunks when we closed escrow.
About Rodeo Realty

Rodeo Realty is a residential real estate firm that has more than 1,200 licensed agents and brokers and 12 offices throughout Los Angeles and Ventura counties.

Rodeo Realty services various markets in Southern California, including luxury real estate markets. The company’s celebrity and other multi-million dollar listings are regularly featured in the news through several television networks, online sites and publications.

Operated under the direction and vision of a single owner, Rodeo Realty stands today as one of the largest independent real estate companies in the nation, while still maintaining the friendly approach of the neighborhood REALTOR®. As the largest independent real estate brokerage headquartered in Beverly Hills and operating throughout the Los Angeles area, with the highest sales volume, Rodeo Realty has the resources to provide the best tools in the industry to deliver the very best results.

For media inquiries pleas contact:

Samira Murphy

Publicist and Social Media Manager

Rodeo Realty

mediarealtions@rodeore.com

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Your Essential Summer Reading List

There’s nothing quite like a good book and a cool summer day. Whether your jet-setting abroad or knackering down here in L.A., ignite your inner bookworm! Ditch the celeb gossip and work emails (for a bit)! It’s time to dust off your Kindle or go the old fashion route of visiting a bookstore for these essential summer reads.

 

  1. Fleishman Is in Trouble, by Taffy Brodesser-Akner

This fiction novel is about a single man who’s ex-wife interferes with his plan after she drops the kids off and disappears.

 

  1. How to Forget, by Kate Mulgrew

This memoir explores family relationships and difficulties caring for loves ones with terminal illnesses.

 

  1. Lady in the Lake, by Laura Lippman

This thriller shares the store of a woman found in a city park lake and a reporter who attempts to solve the murder.

 

  1. Miracle Creek, by Angie Kim

This fiction novel revolves around the mysterious death of a young boy following an explosion.

 

  1. Normal People, by Sally Rooney

This fiction novel follows a bookish pariah and a popular athlete’s secret relationship in high school.

 

  1. The Right Swipe, by Alisha Rai

This romance follows an entrepreneur who’s rules about dating diminish once she encounters a past flame who now works for a rival company.

 

  1. The Latte Factor, by David Bach

Discover Bach’s three secrets to financial freedom while he explains how we all may be richer than we think.

 

  1. Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, by Lori Gottlieb

Gottlieb reflections on her therapy sessions helping a self-absorbed Hollywood producer to cope through a messy breakup in this memoir.

 

  1. The Nickel Boys, by Colson Whitehead

This 2016 Pulitzer Prize winner shares on how an African-American boy’s plans for college are changed once he’s sent to a juvenile reformatory in the 1960’s.

 

  1. Patsy, by Nicole Dennis-Benn

This fiction novel follows a woman who leaves her young daughter behind in Jamaica to travel to the United States to track down the woman she loves.

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Out & About: Summer Family Fun

Summer is finally here! To kick things off right, why not opt for LA’s essential summer fun? Whether it’s a family affair or a few friends, we have rounded up the city’s best that are fit for all to enjoy! Read on for the top ten activities throughout L.A. to add to your bucket list this summer!! Spend some time Out and About!

 

  1. OC Fair & Event Center: 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

July 12 – Aug 11, 2019

The annual fair is coming back to town! Don’t miss the food, entertainment, rides and more this summer at the OC Fair.

https://ocfair.com/

 

  1. Kidspace Children’s Museum: 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena 91103

Bring your kids to this museum where they can explore their creativity through fun activities and workshops! You’ll leave Kidspace with new knowledge and a fresh perspective on nature.

https://www.kidspacemuseum.org/

 

  1. Roxbury Park: 471 S. Roxbury Dr., Beverly Hills 90212

Plan a fun, family picnic day at the park this summer. Visit their website to check out classes offered during summer!

http://www.beverlyhills.org/departments/communityservices/cityparks/roxburycommunitycentermemorialpark/

 

  1. Santa Monica Pier: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica 90401

Catch some waves, ride some rides, play some games or soak up some sun at the Santa Monica Pier this summer. Don’t miss out on Pier 360, one of their major events, this Saturday and Sunday!

https://santamonicapier.org/

 

  1. Getty Villa: 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Los Angeles 90272

Experience the beautiful gardens, courtyards and Mediterranean antiquities at the J. Paul Getty museum. Make your free reservation to enjoy the views from this faux villa located on a Malibu clifftop.

https://www.getty.edu/visit/villa/

 

  1. Pyramid Lake: Pyramid Lake, Los Angeles County

Pyramid Lake is the perfect place to getaway! This lake offers spaces for picnics, fishing, boating, jet skiing and more.

https://pyramidlake.us/

 

  1. Catalina Island: Santa Catalina Island, California 90704

Escape to this private island this summer if you’re looking to getaway! Travel by ferries from Long Beach or San Pedro to participate in water-related activities on this island.

https://www.visitcatalinaisland.com/

 

 

  1. Watts Towers:

This historical landmark displays hand-crafted architecture by Italian tilesetter, Simon Rodia. Experience the unique details and vivid imagery found throughout the exhibit.

http://www.wattstowers.us/

 

  1. Skyspace LA: 1727 E. 107th, Los Angeles

Purchase tickets to enjoy LA’s unparalleled 360 degree views from the tallest open-air observation terrace in California. These views extend as far south as Catalina Island!

https://oue-skyspace.com/

 

  1. LA Zoo: 5333 Zoo Dr., Los Angeles 90027

Bring the family to the zoo this summer to learn more about animals and nature. Shows and activities provide an intimate experience with these creatures.

https://www.lazoo.org/

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Weekend Events: June 21-23

This weekend celebrate the start of summer the right way. With so many things to do around L.A. there is no shortage of fun. Break out of your regular routine with exciting events happening from Santa Monica to the Valley. Our round-up of this weekends best activities is sure to be non-stop fun for the entire family!

Friday, June 21

45th Annual Summer Solstice Festival

Location: Alameda Park

The community and tourists alike are invited to celebrate this years theme, “Wonder.” Start at the opening ceremony with a happy hour and music, and continue all weekend with music, food from a variety of vendors, a children’s area with workshops and activities, a Youth Stage, and of course, the parade!

Click here for more info.

The Try Guys: Legends of The Internet

Location: The Wiltern

The Try Guys proudly present their first nationwide tour, Legends Of The Internet. A thrilling evening of comedy, spectacle, and friendship! Keith, Ned, Zach, and Eugene will bring their iconic brand of “trying everything and anything” to life on stage like you’ve never seen them before -unedited and unfiltered. All the hilarious viral content you love transforms into an unprecedented performance where each city will experience a completely unique, interactive show. You can finally meet the guys and try along with them, up close and personal, and become a Legend of the Internet, too.

Click here for more info.

BET Experience 2019

Location: L.A. Live, Staples Center

Bringing together hundreds of thousands of fans, celebrities, and thought leaders, BET Experience and the BET Awards are a whirlwind celebration of culture. This Friday Meek Mill, YG and more hit the stage kicking off a memorable award show weekend leading up to the BET Awards.

Click here for more info.

Saturday, June 22

Pier 360 Celebration

Location: Santa Monica Pier

Pier 360 celebrates the best of beach life with two days of awesome, free, all ages experiences! With ocean sports competitions, live music, food and drinks, interactive games, sampling by some of your favorite brands and so much more, Pier 360 offers a peek into iconic SoCal beach culture and brings together thousands of guests for a weekend of good vibes.

Click here for more info.

Doheny Surf and Art Festival

Location: Doheny State Beach

Make your way to Doheny State Beach for the 17th Annual Surf and Art Festival. Stop by this two day celebration of Southern california Surf Culture. The free family friendly event will feature: a Surfers Vendor Village, Menehune (kids) Surf Contest, Local, Surfboard Shops , Beer Garden, Live Music, Polynesian Dancing, Great Food, Healthy Living Demonstrations, Classic Longboard Exhibit – and MORE!

Click here for more info.

TOCA Southbay Festival of the Arts

Location: James R. Armstrong Theatre

Don’t miss this fun family friendly event at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center this weekend only. The event will feature children’s activities, juried art and a photography show, along with live music on 3 different stages, food/drinks and artistic activities all day long! General Admission is free with VIP tickets available for purchase.

Click here for more info.

Sunday, June 23

k9 Summer Fest 2019

Location: Pan Pacific Recreation Center

Don’t miss k9 Summer Fest! The non-profit k9 connection which has helped more than 1,057 youth and placed 648 shelter dogs in permanent homes kicks off their 13th annual celebration this Sunday. The fun-filled day will feature a k9 Pup Rally, games and contests, Vendor Booths, Pinches Flautas Buffet a Kids’ Korner and more!

Click here for more info.

Patchwork Show: Modern Makers Festival

Location: Marine Stadium, Long Beach

Celebrating 10 years in Long Beach, Patchwork Show showcases handmade and independent goods from 200+ local makers, crafters, junior entrepreneurs, designers + food artisans alongside 10+food trucks and live local indie music. This event is Family friendly at a cool waterfront location with complimentary bike valet and FREE entry!

Click here for more info.

Kids Summer Movie Series Presents: Frozen

Location: The Wiltern

A special screening of Disney’s top grossing animated film of all time Frozen is coming to The Wiltern on Sunday! Watch the story of fearless Anna with the help of unlikely friends & heroes on her quest to save her sister Queen Elsa and break the curse that has their kingdom in perpetual winter. Come early and take advantage of their themed photo ops, face painting, coloring stations & more! Kids under three come in for free. Yummy food, as well as soft and adult drinks available for purchase.

Click here for more info.

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LA Eats: Best Cool Desserts for Summer

Los Angeles is home to a multitude of cool dessert destinations. These sweet shops are innovating and reinventing ordinary tasty treats. These creative concoctions have people traveling far and wide! It’s no wonder they top our list of the best uniquely flavored combinations in and around LA. Enjoy choices from extravagant donuts to revamped macarons. Our selection will help you uncover your newest craving and keep you cool all summer long.

Humphry Slocombe

Location: Venice, CA

Inspired by the owners love of British comedy, Humphry Slocombe is named after the two lead characters (Mr. Humphries and Mrs. Slocombe) from the fabulous 1970’s sitcom “Are You Being Served?”. With unlimited samples, you are welcome to try all the bizarre and delicious flavors they offer.

Wanderlust Creamery

Location: Various L.A. Locations

If the name doesn’t say it all, the reason behind it and the flavors they offer seal the deal. Try flavors like Thai Tea, pretzel and rye crumbs (Iceland) or their signature purple flavor, Ube malted crunch (Philippines). With Four locations within Los Angeles there’s no reason not to stop by!

Ginger’s Divine Ice Cream

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Ginger’s is a relatively new addition to the LA ice cream scene, but this corner shop in Mar Vista has become a local favorite. This is thanks to the huge number of flavors, flexible tasting policy, and super creamy and smooth ice cream. They’ve got everything from raspberry panna cotta to Vietnamese coffee, but you’ll probably find it hard to go past the Billionaire Brownie. You can get your ice cream in sandwich form, or you could go the ice cream pop route. Live your truth.

AFTERS ICE CREAM

Location: Sherman Oaks

Afters is a truly unique ice cream experience to the streets of Los Angeles. Through a creation of a bevy of uniquely inspired flavors of ice cream, made in small batches to deliver a rich and creamy flavor profile from first bite to last, the only “After”s thought we have is “Can we have more”? Their flavors are a unique palate-pleasing experience. From milk and cereal and jasmine milk tea to Vietnamese coffee, s’mores and acai blueberry, it’s a sweet treat for all to enjoy. The star of the menu is their trademarked Milky Bun, a glazed bun stuffed with your choice of ice cream, sealed and heated back up for a hot/cold sensation you won’t find anywhere else!

Pops Artisanal Creamery

Location: San Fernando

Pops Artisanal Creamery is located in San Fernando, CA which, according to our ice cream GPS, is about 15 minutes north of Burbank. A small trek for a big reward. The ice cream coming out of this place is good enough to drive twice that distance. The family running Helados is from Belize, and they’ve integrated Latin American flavors into the majority of their ice cream – and the result is out of this world. There’s the insanely sweet zapote, the nut-flavored lucuma, and a coconut ice cream we want to fall asleep next to every night. Skip the cone and cup, and put it all in a hollowed out half-coconut husk to make your friends even more jealous they still haven’t come here.

MILK

Location: Los Angeles

MILK is well known for its signature macaron ice cream sandwiches that combine rich ice cream flavors with handmade macarons. Patrons have the option to have their delicious macaron sandwich half dipped in white chocolate and extra toppings like Fruity Pebbles as a sugary finishing touch. The macaron ice cream sandwiches come in flavors like grasshopper, dulce de leche, salted caramel, and Thai tea flavors. In addition, MILK serves strawberry shortcake bars, cupcakes in a cone, and a spin on a household favorite cake: Blue Velvet Cake. This popular dessert destination has both indoor and outdoor seating.

B Sweet Dessert Bar

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Be on the lookout for the Halo Halo at this confectionary shop. Translating to “mix-mix”, Halo Halo is a classic Filipino dessert. The sweet treat consist of shaved ice with 13 layers of flavor, including leche flan and decadent Ube ice cream on top. Another favorite among guests is the signature Ube Halo, a delicious pressed ice cream sandwich with purple ice cream goodness at its core. This fun dessert destination offers classic baked goods like hot bread pudding, floats, nitro coffee, and brownies.

SOMISOMI

Location: Koreatown

Located in the heart of Koreatown, this modest little shop focuses on perfecting the matcha soft serve. You can get matcha on its own or in a milk swirl. Each “cone” is expertly put together by placing the soft serve on a mochi fish shell called taiyaki filled with your choice of nutella, custard or red bean. The chewy texture of the taiyaki and the sweetness of the filling is perfectly balanced by the subtle flavors of the matcha ice cream. Definitely a Los Angeles must try!

Mashti Malone

Location: Los Angeles, CA

This nearly 40-year-old Iranian ice cream shop inside a two-story strip-mall on La Brea is an LA institution and home to some of our favorite ice cream in the city. They serve flavors like saffron, rosewater, and roasted pistachio, and they taste like you are licking potpourri. But once you get over that surprise, you’ll realize this stuff is incredible.

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Grilling Safety Tips

Summer is officially here! Well, come Friday it is. With that in mind one of the joys of summer is firing up your outdoor grill. And although you may be a grilling pro, cooking safety should still be a top priority. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments visit an average of 9,600 homes per year due to barbecue-related fires. So throw on your cliche chefs apron and  grab your grilling gear. It’s time to fire up the barbie ( that’s Aussie for barbecue of course) with these grilling safety tips!

1. If you’re using a propane grill, check for gas leaks first. Here’s the deal: Propane is highly flammable, which is why gas grills are responsible for significantly more fires than ones that use charcoal. Always check for gas leaks before cooking. You can do this by applying a mixture of soap and water onto the hoses and connections. Next, turn on the gas, making sure the grill lid is open. If the soap forms bubbles, that’s a sign that the hose is leaking or the connections are not tight enough. In this case, you should turn off the tank and have it serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak doesn’t stop, call the fire department.

2. Be careful when lighting and relighting propane. When lighting a propane grill, make sure the cover is open. If the flame goes out while you’re cooking, turn off the grill and the gas, and wait at least five minutes before relighting it.

3. If you have a charcoal grill, prepare the charcoal properly. There are several ways to prepare charcoal for grilling. If you use starter fluid to get your flame going, make sure the liquid is made specifically for charcoal and not, say, car engines. Make sure to keep the container away from heat and flame. Electric charcoal starters do not use fire, but if you use an electric starter, make sure that your extension cord is designed specifically for outdoor use, which will be equipped with better insulation to protect against the sun, moisture, and temperature changes.

4. Place the grill in the right location. No matter what type of grill you use, place it as far away as possible from your house, deck railings, and any overhanging plants or branches, since a fire can flare up into these.

5. Keep kids and pets away from the grill area. Children under 5 account for 35 percent of non-fire grill burns, which typically happen when they bump into or touch grills. As a rule of thumb, keep a 3-foot safety zone around the grill area. This goes for pets, too, as you could easily trip over your dog begging for scraps next to the barbecue.

6. Never leave the grill unattended. Fires grow quickly, so make sure an adult is always at the grill when you’re using it. Prep and bring out as much as you can beforehand; i.e., if you’re making cheeseburgers, bring out the meat, cheese, tools, and a clean plate before you get cooking. If you forget the buns, deputize someone else to go get them for you.

7. Clean your grill after each use. You don’t just leave your pots and pans without cleaning them after use, right? Treat your grill the same way. Allowing grease and fat to build up on your grill provides more fuel for a fire. Remove buildup from both the grill and the trays below following each use. Side note: Overloading your grill can cause the same problem, as an abundance of fat from meat can drip onto the flames at once, causing a fire. And if you use a charcoal grill, put the coals in a metal can with a lid once they’ve cooled.

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