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The Best Local Sandwich Shops and Deli’s | L.A. Eats

If you’re really craving a sandwich in South California, you’re in luck because the region has a good variety of exciting sandwich spots that will leave you wanting more. Below are the best local sandwich shops and deli’s you should try:

Los Angeles | The Best Local Sandwich Shops and Deli’s

Oui Bakery and Café

Location: Hollywood, LA

When it comes to sandwich shops, Oui Bakery cafe is a superb choice. This spot is ideal for quick eats, dining solo, or a to-go team lunch when everyone wants something different. They have lovely fresh bread on their sandwiches and delicious sauces within the sandwich. Fresh fruit juices are also in plenty.

Brothers Sandwich Shop
Location: Mid-Wilshire, LA

With an excellent selection of exciting sandwiches and sides, Brothers Sandwich Shop is a really great choice, Likewise, it’s ideal if you are looking for something different for lunch or dinner.

Westside and Beach Communities | The Best Local Sandwich Shops and Deli’s

Bay Cities
Location: Santa Monica

This family-run Italian deli makes plenty of incredible sandwiches. You should definitely try their famous Godmother, made of Prosciutto, mortadella, ham, salami, capicola, and provolone, all stacked between crunchy Italian bread and topped with “the works” – a heaping pile of mild and spicy peppers.

Bread Head
Location: Beverly Hills

Their focaccia ordered with garlic mayo will have you swoon. Besides, you can also try their delicious roast beef with horseradish aioli and stracchino.

Gjusta
Location: Venice

Although usually crowded, Gjusta is an ideal pit-stop after a day at the beach. Their sandwiches are heavenly. This spot is perfect for outdoor dining or quick eats. In addition, we recommend you try their popular Porchetta Melt, the bialy egg breakfast sandwich, or the tuna conserva.

San Fernando Valley | The Best Local Sandwich Shops and Deli’s

Hank’s a Deli of Sorts
Location: Sherman Oaks

As the name implies, Hank’s Deli of Sorts is more than just a deli and sandwich shop. This spot has excellent sandwiches and fast customer service making it perfect for lunch or cheap eats on the go.

Tarzana Armenian Deli and Grocery
Location: Tarzana

This family-run establishment is popular for its Armenian delicacies. Their classic pita wrap sandwiches will melt your heart. In addition, this spot is perfect for lunch and quick eats.

Mendocino Farms
Location: Studio City

For sandwich sops, you can never go wrong with Mendocino Farms. This is one of the best farm-to-table spots in LA. Likewise, you will definitely enjoy the taste of fresh ingredients as well as their healthy options.

Conejo Valley | The Best Local Sandwich Shops and Deli’s

Mouthful Eatery
Location: Thousand Oaks

The sandwiches at Mouthful Eatery are remarkably flavorful, well-balanced, and one of the most unique you’ll find in all of LA. Their sandwiches are fully stuffed and can be served alongside their savory and non-greasy fries.

Italia Deli & Bakery
Location: Agoura Hills

This popular Italian spot has the best sandwiches, hands down. With the option of pre-made ingredients, you can be sure of quick service. Although their sandwiches are a little more expensive, their quality is unmatched.

JOi Café

Location: Conejo Valley

Joi Cafe is a fantastic spot for vegans/vegetarians/health-conscious devotees. They have a variety of plant-based, vegetarian, and vegan options that will entice your tastebuds. Likewise, this spot is quickly becoming a lunch favorite.

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Family-Friendly Theme Parks to Visit | Out & About

If you’re planning a fun-filled day out, it’s hard to beat a theme park. With exciting rides for people of all ages, theme parks offer something for everyone. Great for families, groups of friends, couples, and even thrill-seeking solos, theme parks promise a day of enjoyment and laughter. Residents of SoCal are lucky to have several top-class theme parks almost on their doorstep. Here are the best theme parks in Southern California for an awesome day.

Six Flags Magic Mountain

You’ll find a small selection of kid-friendly attractions at Valencia’s Six Flags Magic Mountain. The theme park is mainly geared towards thrill-seeking teens and adults. Dare to ride the Riddler’s Revenge, the record-breaking stand-up coaster. In addition, you can feel the rush on rides like Goliath, Dive Devil, X2, Viper, and Scream. Snap selfies with your favorite Looney Tunes characters before grabbing a bite at one of the park’s eateries.

Disneyland Resort

A firm family favorite in Anaheim, the expansive Disneyland Resort boasts two incredible theme parks. In addition, there are amazing themed shopping areas, diverse restaurants, hotels, spas, and more.

In Disneyland Park, explore spell-binding themed areas like Fantasyland, Critter Country, Adventureland, and other timeless favorites. Likewise, you can meet many Disney characters and enjoy rides like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Indiana Jones Adventure. Of course, watching the parades is a must!

In Disney California Adventure Park, top rides include Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl, Radiator Springs Racers, and Incredicoaster. In addition, there are many experiences to enjoy like the Animation Academy, watching the Mariachi Divas, and marveling at vibrant parades.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Another big-name theme park in Southern California, Universal Studios Hollywood is perfect for lovers of the silver screen. Step into the world of movies and be wowed with tours that show you the inner workings of a studio. Likewise, you can see props and sets and experience thrilling simulated events. Enjoy exciting rides, all inspired by popular movies and TV shows. Of course, this includes watching the spectacular WaterWorld show or discovering the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. In addition, you can join cool immersive games and dive into the entertainment and leisure options at Universal CityWalk.

DropZone Waterpark

Cool down in the heat and combine action and relaxation at DropZone Waterpark. Located in Perris, the waterpark features pools of varying depths, chutes, and slides, the leisurely Jet Stream River, and an activity pool with cannons, jets, and other water features. Get an adrenaline rush on the boards of Hydroplane Flowrider, pretend you’re at the seaside at Jumper’s Sandbox, or rent a cabana to unwind and soak up the sun.

Raging Waters Los Angeles

If you want even more adventure in the water. Raging Waters Los Angeles is the biggest waterpark in all of California. Set across 50 acres, you’ll find thrilling rides like Bombs Away, Aqua Rocket, and Ragin’ Racer, while tamer attractions for younger members of the family include the Lily Pads, Amazon Adventure, Kid’s Kingdom, and Volcano Fantasea. Rides like Dragon’s Den, Dark Hole, Neptune’s Fury, and Thunder Rapids offer the perfect middle ground. Bob around in the three-foot waves at Wave Cove, shop for aquatic wear and souvenirs, and relax in the sunshine. There are plenty of eateries and refreshment spots to keep hunger and thirst at bay.

Boomers Irvine

Have some good-old amusement park fun with a few hours at Boomers Irvine. People of all ages can practice their swing at the mini-golf course, while the batting cages require quick reflexes and lots of energy. There are go-karts for kids and adults, and you can unleash your competitive heart at laser tag and the arcade. Other attractions include the heart-racing flame thrower ride, bumper boats, and the whimsical child-pleaser of King Arthur’s Carnival.

As well as the above six theme parks, other great options include Legoland California, located near Carlsbad, the family-friendly Knott’s Berry Farm, SeaWorld San Diego, the water lover’s paradise of Knott’s Soak City, Santa Monica Beach’s Pacific Park, Balboa Fun Zone at Newport Beach, the carnivalesque Castle Park in Riverside and Fiesta Village in Colton.

 

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Tips for Repotting Your Plants | Home Tips

Houseplants are a beautiful addition to any home, and they bring life and beauty to any space. But they need some special care to stay healthy and happy. Repotting is an important step in caring for houseplants, as it ensures that their roots have enough room to grow and that the soil contains all the nutrients they need. In this blog, we’ll give you some tips on repotting your houseplants so that they can thrive in their new homes! 

Drainage is Key

First of all, you’ll want to select a pot with adequate drainage holes. This helps keep the plant’s roots from sitting in waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot. Make sure your new pot has one hole for every inch of the pot’s diameter: for example, if your pot is 10 inches wide, there should be at least 10 drainage holes on the bottom. 

Soil Matters

Next, you’ll want to choose a soil mix that is suitable for houseplants. A general-purpose potting mix usually works well, but make sure it doesn’t contain any perlite or vermiculite, as these can absorb too much moisture from the plant’s roots over time. You could also add some slow-release fertilizer pellets into the mix as well for additional nutrient availability for your plants. 

Time to Repot

Once you’ve chosen a pot and soil mix, it’s time to start repotting! Here are some tips on how to do it properly:

– Start by making sure the plant is watered thoroughly a day or two before repotting so that its roots are easier to work with; this will help reduce any transplant shock later on. 

 – Gently remove the plant from its existing pot by tapping or squeezing it slightly until it slides out; don’t pull or tug at the stem too hard, as this can damage fragile roots.  

 – Tease apart any tangled or matted roots gently with your fingers before placing them into their new container; if necessary, cut away any dead or damaged sections before transferring them into fresh soil. 

  – Fill up about ⅔ of the new pot with fresh soil mix and place the root ball into it carefully without packing it down too firmly (this could suffocate delicate root systems). 

 – Once planted securely in place, add more soil around its base until full, then lightly pat down around its edges using your fingertips; water again once done and let drain thoroughly before setting aside in a warm spot with indirect sunlight exposure until established again (this may take several weeks).

Repotting houseplants may seem like a daunting task at first, but with proper planning and preparation beforehand, it can be done seamlessly and quickly! Just remember not to overcrowd pots when planting multiple plants together – each one needs enough room for its own roots, so space them out evenly when possible. Also, avoid over-watering newly transplanted ones too often as this could lead to excessive moisture retention resulting in root rot issues down the line – instead, wait until their topsoil layer appears dry before watering again sparingly only when needed going forward!

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Economic Update | Week Ending February 24, 2024

! Weekly Economic Update

The Dow and the S&P 500 closed the week at record highs – Tech stocks led the way with an impressive week, but all sectors were generally higher. The resilience in the economy has surprised investors who were expecting a slowdown one year ago and now see the economy continuing to expand. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 39,151.53, up 1.4% from 38,627.99 last week. It is up 3.9% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,088.80, up 1.7% from 5,005.57 last week. The S&P is up 6.7% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 15,996.82, up 1.4% from 15,775.65 last week. It is up 6.6% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.26%, down from 4.30% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.37%, down from 4.45% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of February 15, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.90%, up from 6.77% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.29%, up from 6.12% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

U.S. existing-home sales – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 4 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in January, down 4.8% from an annualized rate of 4.2 million in January 2023. The median price for a home in the U.S. in January was 379,100, up 5.1% from $360,800 last January. There was a 3-month supply of homes for sale in January, almost unchanged from a 2.9-month supply last January. First-time buyers accounted for 28% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 17% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 32% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 2% of all sales.

Have a great weekend!

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Mortgage Rate Update | February 22, 2024

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of February 15, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.90%, up from 6.77% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.29%, up from 6.12% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

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From Apple Sports to Sony PSVR and More! | Tech News

Stay connected in the world of technology and media! Check out our weekly wrap-up of what’s happening from across the globe. From Apple Sports to Sony PSVR and more, we have you covered with the latest tech news!

The Justice Department Appoints a Chief AI Officer

The Justice Department has named Jonathan Mayer, a Princeton professor and expert in technology law, as its first chief AI officer, highlighting the importance of adapting to advancements in science and technology. In this role, Mayer will lead efforts to integrate AI into law enforcement practices, focusing on cybersecurity and AI policy, and act as the chief science and technology advisor. This appointment is part of broader initiatives by the Biden administration to enhance AI capabilities and ensure ethical use within government agencies, including the Justice Department’s oversight of AI in sentencing, parole, and surveillance.

Google Secures an Agreement with Reddit for AI Training Data

Google and Reddit have entered into a partnership where Reddit will provide Google with AI training data. This collaboration enables Google to access Reddit’s real-time content via its data API, enhancing Google’s AI model training and content display capabilities. Additionally, Reddit gains access to Google’s Vertex AI, aiming to improve search results. This deal follows Reddit’s exploration of revenue opportunities through data licensing and comes amidst Reddit’s preparations for a public offering, highlighting strategic moves to increase valuation.

Arm Supports Nuro in Launching Its Third-Generation Delivery Robot

Nuro partners with chip designer Arm to develop its third-generation autonomous delivery vehicle, aiming to enhance performance and accelerate commercialization. Leveraging Arm’s Automotive Enhanced technology, this collaboration seeks to improve the vehicle’s efficiency and range, addressing the specialized computing needs of autonomous driving amidst safety and investment challenges. With a focus on increased cargo space and new temperature-controlled compartments, Nuro continues to innovate in driverless delivery, backed by Arm’s low-power technology for optimized AI decision-making.

Sony is now testing PSVR 2 support for PC

Sony is exploring PSVR 2 support for PC gaming rigs, expanding beyond its exclusive PS5 compatibility. This initiative aims to provide PSVR 2 owners with a broader range of games by testing connectivity with PCs. Sony’s official announcement indicates a potential 2024 release for this feature, marking a shift from previous stances on PSVR 2’s compatibility. Efforts by modders to enable PC support underscore the demand for such functionality, though specifics regarding game access remain under discussion.

Microsoft and Intel Forge Custom Chip Agreement with Multibillion-Dollar Potential

Intel has entered into an agreement to manufacture custom chips for Microsoft. The deal was valued at over $15 billion, leveraging Intel’s advanced 18A process technology. This strategic partnership, highlighted during Intel’s Foundry event, underlines Microsoft’s push towards developing its own processors and AI accelerators. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella emphasized the transformative potential of this collaboration for productivity and industry innovation. This move positions Intel’s foundry services at the forefront of the semiconductor industry. Likewise, this mirrors the success of competitors like TSMC through high-profile manufacturing partnerships.

Apple Introduces Apple Sports: Scores and Betting Odds in New App

Apple has unveiled Apple Sports, a comprehensive iPhone app offering scores, stats, betting odds, and more. Of course, the app is for various sports leagues, including exclusive content like MLS. This expansion into sports integrates with Apple TV Plus for live streaming. Of course, it features extensive league support and future additions like MLB and NFL. On the other hand, the app notably excludes direct betting but allows users to opt out of displaying betting odds.

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Weekend Events | February 23 – February 25

Wrap up February with fun around the neighborhood. From 5k’s to fundraisers, we have you covered. Check out what’s happening this February 23 through February 25!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | February 23 – February 25 

L.A. Chinatown Firecracker Run

When: February 24 – February 25 

Where: DTLA

What: Join in on a 5K or 10K run or walk, a one-mile dog walk, or a 20 or 50-mile bike ride as part of this Chinatown tradition. The starting and finishing point for all events is the Chinatown Central Plaza, where a family-friendly festival will be taking place simultaneously.

CicLAvia: Melrose

When: February 25 – December 8  

Where: Melrose

What: Experience a unique cycling journey on February 25th, navigating through Fairfax, Larchmont, Melrose Hill, and East Hollywood. This edition of the event invites you to enjoy these neighborhoods like never before, on a route designed for cyclists and free from cars, showcasing a commitment to bike-friendly paths and community engagement.

Matthew Bourne’s Romeo and Juliet

When: Until February 25

Where: DTLA

What: Renowned choreographer Matthew Bourne reimagines Shakespeare’s classic tragedy through a dynamic interpretation, blending it with Prokofiev’s powerful music to create one of his most captivating works. This production, which received a four-star review during its New York run, will be showcased at the Ahmanson Theatre in L.A. for a month, offering audiences a fresh and engaging theatrical experience.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | February 23 – February 25

Afro-Latinx Festival

When: February 25 

Where: Long Beach

What: Watch Colombian folk dance, Brazilian street performance and Puerto Rican rhythm at this celebration of the cultural diversity of the Americas and the African influence in Latin America. MOLAA’s free event also includes a bunch of food vendors and art workshops.

Love At First Paw Comedy Event

When: February 25

Where: Santa Monica

What: Enjoy a delightful afternoon of stand-up comedy, refreshing drinks, and support for rescue dogs at this unique comedy event. Begin with a charming rescue dog kissing booth at JuneShine’s Santa Monica tasting room, complete with a special Valentine’s treat for your pet. The event continues with a comedy show by Funny Girl Events. A suggested donation of $25 benefits Bubbles Dog Rescue, enhancing the experience by aiding animals in need.

Dog Walking Hours at South Coast Botanic Garden

When: Until February 25 

Where: Rolling Hills / RanchoPalos Verdes

What: Santa Monica Place celebrates the Lunar New Year featuring Chinese lion dance shows, red envelope specials, and cherry blossom wishing trees. Leading up to the festivities on February 17, you have the opportunity to join a holiday-themed cooking class at the Gourmandise School on February 10 at 6 pm, priced at $125.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | February 23 – February 25 

Beginning Field Sketching with Diego Blanco

When: February 24 

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation | 10459 Tuxford St Sun Valley

What: Participants in the special class at the Theodore Payne Foundation gardens will learn about plant parts and how to capture their form through sketching. Guided exercises facilitate a deeper connection with nature, enhancing both artistic expression and botanical knowledge. This immersive experience encourages attendees to observe and depict the natural world around them, fostering both creativity and scientific understanding.

Comedy for a Cause Fundraiser

When: February 25 

Where: The Good Nite | 10721 Burbank Boulevard

What: The Comedy for a Cause Fundraiser at The Good Nite on Sunday, February 25, 2024, promises an evening filled with laughter for a charitable purpose. Starting at 6:00 PM Pacific Standard Time, attendees will enjoy performances by top comedians in a casual and friendly setting, all in support of a noble cause. This event is designed to provide both entertainment and an opportunity to contribute positively to the community.

Fluffology Cooking Class: Intro to Your Dog’s Nutrition

When: February 25 

Where: 11128 Magnolia Blvd, North Hollywood

What: Attendees at the upcoming cooking class will be immersed in the fundamentals of canine nutrition, led by an expert nutritionist. They will explore how to craft delicious, nutritious meals specifically designed for dogs. The session includes hands-on guidance on dog nutrition principles and offers participants a sample recipe to try at home, ensuring their furry companions can enjoy healthy, homemade meals.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | February 23 – February 25 

Ventura Marathon and Half Marathon

When: February 25, 6:30am – 10:45am

Where: Ventura

What: The 2024 Ventura Marathon and Half Marathon are planned for Sunday, February 25, 2024. The marathon and half marathon are point-to-point races, starting in Ojai and ending in downtown Ventura. The marathon starts at 6:30am.

MEDITATING WITH ANIMALS

When: February 25 

Where: Chesebro Road Agoura Hills

What: The event begins with a communal gathering, leading into a leisurely exploration of the ranch, offering attendees the chance to bond with Barnaby the piglet, alongside friendly goats, mini-donkeys, peacocks, and horses. The journey continues back to a Tipi for a session of meditation and sound healing, curated to deepen the relaxation and joy of the experience. This serene afternoon promises to be a nurturing escape into nature, leaving participants with lasting happiness.

Paint your own Serving Dish

When: February 24

Where: China Painting Studio | 22702 Burbank Boulevard

What: Elika’s Porcelain Painting Workshop offers a unique opportunity for participants to delve into the art of porcelain painting, creating their own beautifully painted plates and personalized gifts. This workshop not only teaches the techniques of painting on porcelain but also allows attendees to craft functional art, enhancing the personal touch in their living spaces.

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LA’s Top Coffee Shops | LA Eats

Los Angeles’ coffee culture is as varied and captivating as its sprawling landscapes. With coffee shops dedicated to the craft of sourcing the finest beans, LA’s coffee scene is set to flourish indefinitely. Here’s a curated list of LA’s top coffee shops.

Bloom & Plume Coffee

Location: 1638 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90026*
Bloom & Plume stands out in LA’s coffee scene with its vibrant exterior, inviting ambiance, and signature honey lavender lattes. Maurice Harris, a co-owner with a flair for art and floral design, brings his creative passions to life in this café located in Historic Filipinotown. The menu also features delightful options such as gluten-free vegan doughnuts and a savory bacon biscuit sandwich.

Tilt Coffee Bar

Location: 334 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Specializing in coffee, Tilt Coffee Bar also boasts an impressive selection of matcha and teas. Nestled in the Medallion apartments, Tilt is a haven for coffee aficionados in search of exceptional service and a robust single-origin cold brew.

Patria Coffee Roasters

Location: 108 N Alameda St, Compton, CA 90221
Since its 2018 opening in Compton, Patria Coffee Roasters has become more than just a café, serving as a vibrant community hub. Here, patrons can enjoy top-quality beans sourced globally and roasted locally. The café’s LAUSD-style coffee cake is a nostalgic treat for locals.

Highly Likely

Location: 5526 North Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, California 90042*
Highly Likely brightens the day with its breakfast and lunch offerings, along with a comprehensive coffee menu curated by Emily Elmore of Dayglow, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy their coffee on the inviting patio, weather permitting.

Rose Park Roasters

Location: 3044 E 4th St, Long Beach, CA 90814
A gem within Long Beach, Rose Park Roasters is a community favorite when it comes to coffee shops. The Fourth Street café invites guests to relax by its expansive windows, enjoying house-made pastries, while the Pine Street location serves beer and wine.

Mandarin Coffee

Location: 380 S Lake Ave #111, Pasadena, CA 91101
Mandarin Coffee in Pasadena’s Burlington Arcade offers a glass-covered courtyard that complements its espresso and specialty drinks, like the sweetened coconut cream cappuccino. This Asian and woman-owned café provides a welcoming seating area for guests.

Café Santo

Location: 520 Whittier Blvd #D, Montebello, CA 90640
At Café Santo, located in the BLVD MRKT, the Oaxacan mocha reigns supreme. This Oaxacan-inspired coffee shop greets visitors at the food hall’s entrance, serving up delicious brioche French toast, breakfast sandwiches, and quiche.

Trung Nguyên Legend Café

Location: 9039 Bolsa Ave #101, Westminster, CA 92683
A visit to Trung Nguyên Legend Café in Little Saigon is well worth the trip for its legendary Vietnamese coffee. Opened in 2023, the café delights with robusta and arabica blends from Vietnam, served in a traditional phin or as espresso drinks, all presented on ornate wooden trays.

10 Speed Coffee

Location: 23504 Calabasas Rd, Calabasas, CA 91302
With locations throughout Southern California, 10 Speed Coffee is known for its strong brews and inviting atmosphere, especially cozy in its Calabasas location.

Laidrey

Location: 18600 Ventura Blvd, Tarzana, CA 91356
In the San Fernando Valley, Laidrey is cherished for its ethically sourced beans and the signature maple oat latte. Owner Gacia Tachejian ensures quality in every cup.

Cognoscenti Coffee Bar

Location: 6114 Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA
Since 2009, Cognoscenti Coffee in Culver City has been a modernist haven for coffee purists, offering straightforward, high-quality coffee drinks made by knowledgeable baristas.

Community Goods

Location: 710 N Edinburgh Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Community Goods is known for its consistent lines and exceptional coffee, such as the einspänner latte, a delightful mix of sweetened cream, cocoa, and espresso. Don’t miss the breakfast sliders.

Jurassic Magic

Location: 1865 S Mansfield Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90019*
Jurassic Magic offers a retreat from the digital world, encouraging in-person interaction with its unique Magic Latte, a concoction of condensed oat milk and a proprietary spice blend.

South LA Cafe at the Hollywood Bowl

Location: 2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068
South LA Cafe provides a premium coffee experience at the Hollywood Bowl, perfect for morning energizers or pre-concert refreshments. Additional locations are spread throughout the city.

Alchemist Coffee Project at the Pearl

Location: 687 S Hobart Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90005
Alchemist Coffee Project is a Koreatown favorite, serving coffee made from Onyx Coffee beans and notable breakfast sandwiches, with the convenience of free one-hour parking.

Obet & Del’s Coffee

Location: 5233 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Obet & Del’s, nestled in Thai Town, is a Black- and Filipino-owned shop where customers can enjoy Filipino iced coffee with ube oat milk and the signature Thai Town latte.

Memorylook Coffee

Location: 2881 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006
Memorylook in Koreatown excels with its coffee, matcha lattes, and unique desserts. The café is a popular spot for those looking to work or relax, offering both indoor and outdoor seating.

Pam’s Coffy

Location: In front of the Vista Theater in Los Feliz, California
Film director Quentin Tarantino pays tribute to actress Pam Grier with Pam’s Coffy, serving custom beans by Jones Coffee Roasters. This café is a nod to the 1973 film Coffy.

This guide showcases the diverse and vibrant coffee culture of Los Angeles, highlighting coffee shops that offer unique brews, cozy atmospheres, and community spaces across the city.

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SoCal Spring Superbloom Sites | Out & About

As spring takes hold, SoCal becomes a canvas painted with the vibrant colors of wildflower superblooms. These natural superbloom spectacles draw visitors from far and wide, eager to witness the desert and hillsides erupt in a riot of colors. In this guide, we’ll explore the best locations and optimal times to view these spectacular displays, focusing on renowned spots like the Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve and the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Best Locations for Wildflower Super Blooms

Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve

Located in Los Angeles County, the Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve boasts rolling hills covered in the state flower, the California poppy. From late March to early May, the reserve transforms into a sea of orange and gold, offering breathtaking views and numerous trails for visitors to explore. Photography tips: Visit in the morning for soft light and less wind.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

As California’s largest state park, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park presents a different but equally stunning superbloom spectacle. Here, the desert floor comes alive with a variety of wildflowers, including desert lilies, sand verbena, and ocotillo. The best time to visit is from late February to March, depending on rainfall patterns. Adventure tip: Check the park’s official website for bloom updates and guided tour information.

Tips for Enjoying the Superbloom

1. Visit Early in the Season: To catch the blooms at their peak, plan your visit for early in the season. Keep an eye on local bloom reports and social media for the latest updates.
2. Respect the Environment: While it’s tempting to venture close for the perfect photo, it’s crucial to stay on designated paths to protect the fragile ecosystems.
3. Weekday Visits: To avoid crowds, plan your visit on a weekday. Not only will you get better photos, but you’ll also enjoy a more serene experience.
4. Preparation is Key: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks. Many superbloom locations are in remote areas with limited amenities.

Other Noteworthy Locations

Carrizo Plain National Monument:

Known as California’s Serengeti, Carrizo Plain offers a stunning backdrop of wildflowers against the San Andreas Fault.

Joshua Tree National Park:

While not known for super blooms, Joshua Tree offers unique springtime blooms, including the Joshua tree’s own flowers.

Experiencing a wildflower superbloom in Southern California is a must-do for nature lovers and photographers alike. By visiting locations like the Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, you’re not just witnessing the beauty of spring; you’re becoming part of a timeless natural phenomenon. Remember to respect the natural environment and plan ahead to make the most of your super bloom adventure.

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Adding Luxe to Your Home Theater Experience | Home Tips

There’s no better luxury than enjoying your favorite films in the comfort of a bespoke luxe home theater. A perfect blend of state-of-the-art technology, comfort, and style can turn a simple movie night into an extraordinary experience. Here’s how to create a cozy yet luxurious home theater experience in your own abode.

Selecting the Right Space

The first step in creating your luxe home theater is selecting the right space. Ideally, it should be a room where you can control the lighting and sound easily—a basement, a spare room, or a sectioned-off area in a large living space can work beautifully. Soundproofing the room is essential to prevent external noise disturbance and to keep the cinematic sound contained within the room.

Investing in High-Quality Audio and Visual Equipment

The heart of your luxe home theater is the audio and visual equipment. Invest in a high-quality projector or a large OLED screen for the best picture quality. When it comes to sound, a surround sound system with a subwoofer will create an immersive audio experience. Consider adding acoustic panels to enhance sound quality further.

Comfortable and Stylish Luxe Seating

Seating is key in a home theater. Opt for luxury reclining seats with plush upholstery to provide the utmost comfort. Arrange the seating in a way that every spot has an unobstructed view of the screen. For an added touch of luxury, look for seats with built-in amenities like cup holders, charging stations, and even heated seats.

Creating the Luxe Right Atmosphere

Lighting plays a significant role in creating the right atmosphere. Install dimmable LED lights to adjust the brightness according to your needs. You might also add floor lighting along the aisles for a true luxe cinema feel. Decorate the room with luxurious, thick curtains to control external light and to add to the theater aesthetic.

Adding Personal luxe Touches

Personalize your home theater with touches that reflect your style and interests. This could include framed movie posters of your favorite films, a classic popcorn machine, or a stylish bar area stocked with your favorite refreshments. 

Temperature Control for Year-Round Comfort

Ensure that your home theater is comfortable year-round. A well-regulated HVAC system or portable heaters and fans can keep the room at a comfortable temperature, no matter the season.

Smart Home Integration

Lastly, integrate your luxe home theater with your home’s smart system. This allows you to control lighting and sound, and even start your movie with the touch of a button or a voice command.

In conclusion, creating a cozy yet luxurious home theater is all about balancing top-notch technology with personalized comfort and style. It’s a space where you can unwind, entertain, and enjoy the magic of the movies right from the comfort of your home. This February, treat yourself and your loved ones to an unparalleled cinematic experience at home.

 

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