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At Home Entertainment: Public Library Edition

What’s Online at the Public Library? Free Movies, Music and Books! 

Don’t close the book on Los Angeles area public libraries. Their doors may be shut due to the coronavirus, but online, their resources remain open. And that includes movies, audiobooks, ebooks, and music – all available for free when you sign up online. Just go to the website and click through for an ecard (at the L.A. Public Library) or 90-day digital library card (at the L.A. County Public Library). Here’s a rundown of some of the materials and apps you’ll discover:

MOVIES

With your card, you’re a member of Kanopy, an on-demand streaming video platform for public libraries and universities, boasting a catalog of more than 30,000 films. As you might expect, the selection should delight documentary-lovers, but they also have plenty of popular Hollywood fare on tap, ranging from Lady Bird and Moonlight to Memento and Donnie Darko. Members can also access Kanopy Kids, which features children’s programming. Hoopla is another service included with your card that allows you to stream entertainment content. Two things set Hoopla apart: you can temporarily download what you want and view it offline, and there are no waitlists as all their content is available 24/7. While their selection includes educational materials and documentaries, they also curate blockbusters like E.T. and Liar Liar.

AUDIOBOOKS AND EBOOKS

With the Overdrive app, you can download everything from bestsellers to graphic novels to YA fiction. One caveat: because copies are limited, you may have to place a hold on what you want and wait for your turn. But in the meantime, the app offers available alternatives to occupy you.

MUSIC

With a collection of more than 15 million songs, Freegal Music lets you download or stream music on any compatible device. They also have curated playlists to suit whatever mood you’re in. And once you download a song, it’s yours to keep and enjoy offline as you please.

HOMEWORK AND ONLINE LEARNING

Online research and homework tools for readers of all ages include searchable databases, live tutors, instructor-led courses and Lynda.com, which provides more than 3,000 courses as well as 150,000 video tutorials.

THE NEW YORK TIMES

A basic digital subscription to the Times costs about $10 a month, but with an L.A.-area library card, it’s free. Just go to the website and follow the instructions. But remember, the number of daily NYT access redemptions are limited, so it may take a little work to snag one. If the Times doesn’t appeal to you, there are dozens of other magazines and newspapers to sample as well.

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Home Tips: Beating Cabin Fever

Maintaining your health and wellness right now means more than just protecting yourself from the coronavirus. Three weeks since the first stay-at-home orders were introduced – first curtailing access to restaurants and outdoor events, then shutting down schools, non-essential businesses as well as trails, beaches and parks – it’s just as important to safeguard yourself from the anxiety and depression that can grip you in isolation. Here are five ways to help you maintain your emotional and mental wellbeing as we weather the pandemic outside our doors.

Think of the extra time as an opportunity 

Remember that book you always wanted to read but never had the time to? Remember that book you always wanted to write but never had the time to? Likewise, while FaceTime and Skype can keep you connected with your loved ones, consider using these tools to contact friends who may have fallen out of touch. (By sending love to others, you will improve your own mental health.) Besides, if you’ve ever felt the world was moving too fast, view this forced pause as an opportunity to reflect on how to improve your life once things return to normal.

Consider adopting (or fostering) a pet

From your shelter, help a dog or cat leave theirs. L.A.-area shelters and rescue groups, which have had to close their doors, are adapting by allowing potential pet owners to view their animals online. From there, a process kicks in by which you can pick up the new addition to your home. Pet adoptions have skyrocketed across the nation as isolated people seek companions who will transmit only good vibes, not COVID-19 (and the CDC is clear there is no evidence people can be infected by their pets). As well, if adopting an animal seems like a steep first step, consider fostering. That, too, can save a life while boosting your spirits.

Limit the media coverage you consume

Staying informed is important. However, given the 24/7 news cycle and the nature of social media, which amplifies the chances of misinformation, it is also easy to become overwhelmed by fear and worry. So choose a respectable news source and follow a few trustworthy health professionals, and check in two or three times a day. Previous generations made it through world wars, depressions, and pandemics on a diet of no more than a newspaper and one or two news broadcasts per day.

Stick to your diet and sleep schedule

Foregoing your street clothes to wander the house in your robe and slippers is one thing. However, remain mindful and do not let sheltering in place disrupt your daily life too drastically. Consuming too much junk food or alcohol can have long-term health consequences, for example. By keeping your bedtime the same, you create an internal consistency despite uncertain times. Of course, if you are now working remotely or home-schooling your children, you know how important adhering to a strict schedule is for both your own productivity and their education.

Seek therapy online if you need to

If you feel you need to talk to a professional but don’t know where to turn, numerous digital companies offer counseling in moments of crisis. Among them: Talkspace, which is currently providing free therapy for healthcare workers struggling in the midst of the pandemic; Brightside, which links patients to virtual psychiatrists and therapists; and MDLive, which, in addition to its other medical services, offers video sessions with its therapists. For something less intensive, you might want to investigate such stress-busting meditation apps as Headspace or Calm.

Stay safe, all!

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Valley Eats: Local Restaurants to Support

With restaurants and bars forced to close their doors throughout Southern California due to the coronavirus, businesses and diners alike are continuing to adapt to this new reality. In addition to moving to delivery and curbside pickup, many eateries are offering new specials and adjusted hours. So even if you can’t go out to eat, please consider supporting them by ordering in. Better yet, supporting them by purchasing a gift card to use for future purchases is another option.

CONEJO VALLEY

Nicolas Eatery

22333 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu

This French-influenced, family-run restaurant is offering takeout only from a menu that includes such appetizers as salmon tartar and truffle fries, as well as salads, sandwiches and main dishes like the lobster mac n’ cheese and Scottish salmon. If you’re a fan of toast (and who isn’t?) their selection includes avocado toast and the Malibu toast, with lobster, egg and bechamel sauce. They’re open noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Carbon Beach Club

22878 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu

Dining in the oceanfront terrace is obviously not an option, but the curbside menu of this restaurant still includes favorites like calamari and shrimp cocktail. Along with salads and sandwiches, large plate items range from the classic omelet to the roasted chicken breast.

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

World Empanadas

1206 W Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank

Family owned and operated since 2012, this shop’s name says it all – just don’t expect your “average meat pie selection” as they state on their website. In fact, these might be some of the most delicious empanadas you’ll ever have. Expectedly, they’ve had to adjust to current events and no longer serve their breakfast burrito, but offer fast, efficient delivery nonetheless. Their hours are from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

Feu Pho Kitchen

11310 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City

Starters at this Vietnamese fusion spot range from garlic noodles to spring rolls to salads like the chilled papaya and mango salad. And the vermicelli noodles are not to be missed. But their specialty is unquestionably the pho (hot noodle soup), whether you’re having the ribeye beef, the oxtail or the tofu, with boiled mushroom, onion, broccoli, and bok choy. They’re open Monday through Saturday, from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

SANTA CLARITA

Sharky’s Woodfire Mexican Grill

24201 Valencia Boulevard, Valencia

Offering takeout and free delivery, Sharky’s is working with WeGo Inc., a Santa Clarita-based delivery service that is offering free food and delivery throughout the valley. The menu offers a range of Mexican fare from burritos and tacos to quesadillas and enchiladas.

Las Rocas Bar and Grill

27923 Sloan Canyon Road, Castaic, CA 91384

This authentic Mexican eatery is offering free delivery and curbside pickups under reduced hours. Specialty items include the Pollo en Mole, carnitas and Chile Verde. As you should with all restaurants during these challenging times, go to their website or call ahead to confirm.

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LA Eats: Local Restaurants to Support

With restaurants and bars forced to close their doors throughout Southern California due to the coronavirus, businesses and diners alike are continuing to adapt to this new reality. In addition to moving to delivery and curbside pickup, many eateries are offering new specials and adjusted hours. So even if you can’t go out to eat, please consider supporting them by ordering in. Better yet, supporting them by purchasing a gift card to use for future purchases is another option.

Manuela

907 E. 3rd Street, Los Angeles

New to its menu and available for curbside pickup or delivery, this seasonal eatery is offering a nightly “supper for two” that includes seasonal salad, biscuits, vegetable sides, and dessert. Nightly specials have included dry-aged ribeye, smoked beef brisket, and wine-braised meatballs. They also offer beer and wine. The hours are Monday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Rappahannock Oyster Bar

777 S Alameda Street, Los Angeles

It’s not the same as dining in LA’s Warehouse District, surrounded by the restaurant’s exposed wood and concrete floors, but oysters at home are better than no oysters at all. Other items available include lobster tacos, the lobster grilled cheese, and an avocado and kale salad. The hours are from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Angelini Alimentari

7317 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles

The new takeout menu at Angelini Osteria’s sister restaurant includes pasta, antipasti, focaccia, meatballs, chicken, salmon, and pizza. Plus, for dessert, try their gluten-free chocolate Caprese soft chocolate cake or Italian bread pudding. The hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Crustacean

468 N Bedford Drive, Beverly Hills

Famed for its Vietnamese cuisine, this Beverly Hills staple is offering a special “An The Go” pickup and delivery menu highlighted by its signature garlic noodles (served with your choice of lobster, prawns or crab) as well as such other dishes as crispy Jidori chicken rolls, filet mignon, and chicken oyster satay. To Go hours are Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 8 p.m.

 

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Out & About: Staying Safe Outdoors

Isolating yourself indoors has its limits. So while everything from non-essential businesses to children’s playgrounds to state campgrounds have been closed throughout Southern California as the world grapples with the coronavirus pandemic, some things you simply need to venture outside to do. Here are some ways to stay safe outside your own four walls. 

GROCERY STORES

With online grocers overwhelmed by demand, it’s likely at some point you will need to restock food and supplies yourself. If possible, try to avoid peak hours and maintain the recommended distance of six feet between you and others. While in the store, touch as little as you need to and when you get it home, sanitize what you have purchased. Produce, which on average is handled by at least 10 people before it reaches you, should be sprayed with either a bleach solution (a teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water), a disinfectant wipe or soap and water. Packaged items should also probably be wiped down. And don’t forget to wash your hands with soap and water. If you want to be extra-careful, wash your clothes and have a shower.

FARMERS MARKETS

Farmer’s Markets, considered essential services, remain open, albeit with new rules. These include ensuring there are more hand-washing stations, more space between stands and in general, more distance between people. Not surprisingly, the sampling of unpackaged food is not permitted. Otherwise, you should treat the market the same as anywhere else: don’t touch your face, be wary of surfaces and once you get home, wash everything with soap and water.

DOCTORS OFFICES

If possible, postpone routine procedures and regularly-scheduled appointments. (Many clinics are already cutting back nonessential services.) If you suspect you have coronavirus – either because you have symptoms like a fever and dry cough or you’ve been in contact with someone confirmed to be infected – you should first call your doctor or make a virtual appointment. If it becomes necessary for you to go into the office, it’s likely the clinic has adapted to guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): providing soap and hand sanitizer, placing chairs apart and using barriers when possible, as well as removing any communal items (such as toys or magazines) and posting COVID-19-related signage.

WALKING THE DOG

Obviously, when your dog has to go out, so do you. Keep a radius of at least six feet around you and your four-legged friend. If a street or path seems too crowded, find another way. If you can, avoid peak times. Along with bringing your own water and supplies, remember to wash your hands after touching any handrails or door handles. As for your dog, he or she is perfectly fine. There is no evidence to suggest dogs can either transmit coronavirus or contract the illness.

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Streaming: The 5 Best TV Shows You Should Finally Binge 

The 5 Best TV Shows You Should Finally Binge 

So much content, so little time. Until now. With social distancing giving everyone a lot more downtime at home, why not use it to binge a classic TV series you may have missed when it originally aired – or always wanted to revisit but never got around to? Thanks to the vast catalogs curated by the likes of Netflix, Hulu, and others, it’s almost certainly available to be streamed. And if you don’t have a favorite already in mind, here are five picks to consider.

The Sopranos 

Streaming On: HBO GO, HBO NOW, Hulu, Amazon Prime

Like The Godfather, the time has been kind to David Chase’s mafioso drama about a New Jersey crime kingpin and his clan. Considered one of the finest television dramas in history – if not the finest – it’s powered by James Gandolfini‘s explosive performance as Tony Soprano, a mobster in crisis seeking therapy with psychiatrist Jennifer Melfi (Lorraine Bracco). What follows is a turbulent miracle of violence and recrimination punctuated by bursts of jet-black humor. FOR AGES: 18 and up

Lost 

Streaming On: Hulu

To appreciate Lost, consider how far ahead of its time it was in 2004. Here was an expensive serialized thrill ride that inspired a rabid fandom, stoked pop culture debate, raced with cinematic action and veered wildly down avenues of science fiction and theology. It looked like nothing else on the air at the time – and now resembles much of what’s new to binge. The premise: after crash landing on a mysterious island, the survivors of Oceanic Flight 815 encounter everything from polar bears and phantoms to mad scientists and time travel. For ages: 13 and up.

Futurama

Streaming On: Hulu

Just because this science-fiction spoof from Matt Groening never enjoyed the blockbuster success of his other animated creation, The Simpsons, doesn’t mean it lacks for witty, weird pleasures. Set in the year 3000, it follows the misadventures of a 20th-century slacker stranded out of time. Along the way, he encounters robots, floating heads, intelligent crustaceans and the one-eyed girl who steals his heart. FOR AGES: 12 and up

 

Curb your Enthusiasm 

Streaming On: HBO NOW, HBO GO, Amazon Prime, Hulu

Considering Curb just wrapped it’s 10th (and one of its best) seasons, what better time to revisit the entire misanthropic catalog of awkward truths and cringing laughs? As a fictionalized version of himself, Seinfeld co-creator Larry David discovers social aggravation wherever he goes in his West Los Angeles neighborhood. And for fans of Seinfeld who missed it, Curb’s seventh season is as close to a proper Seinfeld reunion as you will ever see. FOR AGES: 18 and up

 

Mad Men 

Streaming On: Netflix

Like The Sopranos, Mad Men follows an alpha male anti-hero in an existential crisis. But whereas that mob drama is as beefy and swaggering as Tony Soprano, this series set in 1960s New York is as sleek and inscrutable as its chain-smoking ad man, Don Draper (Jon Hamm). Despite its multitude of Emmys and place in pop culture, Mad Men was, relatively speaking, always a niche show, enjoying solid but unspectacular ratings. This means for many people, its immaculate style and shattering drama are yet to be discovered. FOR AGES: 14 and up

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Home Tips: Safer at Home

Just because you’re home doesn’t mean the coronavirus can’t follow you inside. By now, we all know the basic steps the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are urging people to follow in their daily lives:

    • Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds – or about the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice.
    • Keep your distance from people in general (a radius of six feet is suggested), but especially from those who are sick.
    • Cough or sneeze into a tissue and then dispose of it in the trash.
    • If you are sick, stay home.
    • If you have symptoms such as a dry cough or fever, seek medical advice.

Which, while providing necessary guidance, still leaves unanswered questions for people now sheltering in place. Among them:

WITH SCHOOLS CLOSED, IS IT SAFE TO HAVE GRANDPARENTS BABYSIT THE KIDS? 

In a word, no. Although recent data suggests younger adults and teenagers are not as immune to the effects of COVID-19 as first thought, the virus nevertheless presents the greatest risk to older adults and people already suffering from such chronic medical conditions as lung disease. For example, as of mid-March, when there were about 2,500 cases in the U.S., adults over the age of 65 accounted for roughly 80 percent of the reported deaths.

HOW CAN I HELP OLDER LOVED ONES FEEL LESS ISOLATED?

During this crisis, don’t overlook the mental wellness of your loved ones, particularly the elderly. If grandma and grandpa cannot see their grandchildren in person, arm them with digital devices, even if they aren’t terribly tech-savvy. The Apple iPad Pro 9.7, for example, is both high-end and user-friendly, bolstered by a brilliant display. For a device, even more, stripped down in its simplicity, there is the GrandPad for video chatting and photo swapping.  

HOW DO I STAY FIT AND HEALTHY IF I CAN’T EXERCISE?

With gyms shuttered and outdoor activities dramatically curtailed, fitness pros are turning online, offering live-streaming classes and free trial apps for anyone who wants to stay in shape. For a more challenging routine, Orangetheory offers a variety of at-home workouts daily. Boxing studio Rumble is hosting workouts on Instagram Live while CorePower Yoga is streaming free classes. Indoor cycling titan Peloton is also offering a free 90-day trial of their classes, which range from cycling and running to yoga and meditation. Lastly, for seniors, the AARP has several fitness videos posted on YouTube. But whatever you choose, don’t stress. Studies suggest a five-minute workout once a day is all you need to maintain your status quo.

I HAVE SANITIZING WIPES AND TOILET PAPER, WHAT AM I MISSING?

The coronavirus isn’t a cyber-attack, but what would happen if your phone or laptop broke and stores weren’t open to selling you a replacement and online delivery became so overwhelmed, it would take days or weeks to courier a new device to you? If you are now working remotely – or need to stay in contact with a family member digitally – you should consider spending on a back-up phone, batteries and any spare parts for the electronics you rely on.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I CLEAN THE HOUSE – AND WHAT ARE THE HOTSPOTS?

Experts suggest you clean your home every few days – but pay special attention to the areas and objects that receive the most human contact: doorknobs, light switches, countertops, even TV remotes. As for dish and bath towels, wash them every day after you use them.

SHOULD I MAKE MY OWN HAND SANITIZER?

For all the talk about making your own hand sanitizer – and a lot of what is discussed online wouldn’t be effective, anyway – soap and water should always be your go-to. (Just like people have been doing to battle viruses for most of history; the first soap was manufactured by the Babylonians in 2800 B.C.) Only if the soap isn’t available should you consider a substitute. If you do have to do it yourself, it needs to be at least 60 percent alcohol. (Most online formulas combine rubbing alcohol, which is 99 percent alcohol, with aloe vera gel and lemon juice.)

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LA Eats: Local Restaurants to Support

Among the many businesses bearing the initial economic brunt of the coronavirus pandemic is the restaurant industry. With eateries closing their doors daily as they are reduced to serving only delivery or takeout, we wanted to highlight some of the local ones that remain open. Order in or call ahead for pick-up – the food is delicious and you’ll be supporting a business in need during challenging times.

Wax Paper

2902 Knox Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90039
This solid little shop has carved out a reputation for itself among sandwich fans. Recommendations: the Ira Glass (avocado, cheddar cheese, alfalfa sprouts, red onions, and garlic aioli, although you can also add meat), the Audie Cornish (black forest ham on a baguette) and their titanic twist on the classic Italian hoagie known as the Larry Mantle (bologna, salami, and pecorino pepato cheese).

Go Get Em Tiger


230 N Larchmont Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90004
For a coffee or your first bite of the day, there’s this shop tucked away in Larchmont Village. Whatever time of day it is, you can’t go wrong with the baked egg with chorizo, which probably qualifies as a meal in its own right.

Woon Kitchen


2920 W Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Before it moved into its brick and mortar space located in historic Filipinotown, Woon started as a family-run pop-up whose only intention was to share their mother’s Chinese comfort food. Inspired by Shanghainese and Cantonese cuisine, the selection is relatively small but no less tasty – from the fried tofu fish cakes stuffed with fish paste, cilantro, green onions to the soy veggie wraps served with Worcestershire sauce or red vinegar.

Burgers Never Say Die

2388 Glendale Boulevard, Unit A, Los Angeles, CA 90039

For those who aren’t familiar with Burgers Never Say Die, it began life as a burger stand before breaking out to become a local sensation. So there’s never been a better time to find out what you’ve been missing, even if you’ve never been a burger-and-fries guy or gal.

Homestate

4624 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90027

This low-key, Texas-style eatery serves up breakfast and lunch with tacos like the picadillo (grass-fed ground beef, potato, carrots, and pickled jalapeno), the brisket (shredded brisket, guacamole, and slaw), the vegetarian Brazos (black beans and Monterey Jack) and the trinity (organic eggs, bacon, potato, cheddar). One note: they are only taking online orders now.

Tallula’s


118 Entrada Drive, Santa Monica CA 90402
Influenced by Executive Chef Saw Naing’s Burmese and Indian heritage, the homestyle menu fuses those flavors with traditional Mexican cuisine. Dishes come both hot (like the vegetable masala enchiladas with blue corn tortillas, green garlic, and spiced tomato sauce ) and cold (the Baja kampachi ceviche with strawberry hibiscus aguachile, red onion, and jalapeno).

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Valley Eats: Local Restaurants to Support

Among the many businesses bearing the initial economic brunt of the coronavirus pandemic is the restaurant industry. With eateries closing their doors daily as they are reduced to serving only delivery or takeout, we wanted to highlight some of the local ones that remain open. Order in or call ahead for pick up – the food is delicious and you’ll be supporting a business in need during challenging times.

Conejo Valley

Kabab Plus Mediterranean Fusion Grill

50 E Thousand Oaks Boulevard No. 2, Thousand Oaks, 91360
For three decades, this family-owned business has been part of the Thousand Oaks community, serving authentic Mediterranean cuisine. The kababs, marinated with natural ingredients, are served with basmati rice, hummus, salad, and grilled pita. They also offer gyros, wraps, salads, and protein bowls, along with other sides, as well as vegetarian and vegan options.

Sesame Inn

3327 W Kimber Drive, Newbury Park, CA 91320
Serving up classic Chinese fare since 2000, this eatery is located inside Kimber Plaza. Chef’s specials include the sesame crispy shrimp battered in butter then sautéed in honey sauce, the lightly-breaded lemon chicken, and the triple-meat kung pao with shrimp, chicken and beef sautéed with red peppers, peanuts, and mushrooms.

Bottega Italian Deli

3184 E Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
This eatery, specializing in genuine Italian, opened in 2015 from the same owners as Trattoria de Roma in Tarzana and Piccola Roma in Woodland Hills. Sandwiches include the Italian sausage with melted Scamorza cheese, homemade marinara, peppers and onions, and the L’Americano, with Prosciutto, roast beef, ham, pastrami, Swiss cheese, roasted peppers, and mayo.

San Fernando Valley 

Furn San Restaurant and Bakery

11146 Balboa Boulevard, Granada Hills, CA 91344
Since opening in 2013, this family-owned restaurant has been serving homemade Lebanese food to the community. Promising to give customers the most authentic experience available in Southern California, plates include falafel, Mediterranean beef sausage, gyro as well as beef and chicken shawarma. There are also vegan options with both grilled vegan chicken and grilled plant-based protein. All come with a choice of two sides, pickles, turnips, and fresh saj bread.

Szechuan Place


9250 N. Reseda Boulevard No. 8, Northridge, CA 91342
This eatery serves up American-style Chinese food – including kung pao and General Tso’s Style chicken – as well as house specials like shredded pork in Szechuan sauce. For an appetizer, dabble in either the dumplings or the spicy wonton soup.

Hugo’s Restaurant

Studio City 12851 Riverside Drive, Valley Village, CA 91607

Founder Terry Kaplan bought Hugo’s when it was still a butcher shop in 1975. According to the restaurant’s site, his vision was to “to have a family of co-workers who cared for each other in a genuine way” while producing original, memorable dishes. Hugo’s eventually became a full-fledged restaurant in 1980 and today, still makes its meals from scratch, including pasta like the vegan mac and cheese (fusilli pasta with garlic, sliced mushrooms, and sweet peas) and entrees like the Chicken Carciofi (chicken breast in olive oil with artichoke hearts and spinach).

Santa Clarita

Pierogi Spot


26511 Golden Valley Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91350
This family-run restaurant offers pierogi with a range of options – from onions and cheese to jalapenos and spinach – as well as such other authentic fare as polish sausage, stuffed cabbage, and beef stew. This is the second location for the owners, who have operated the Polka Restaurant on Verdugo Road since 1994.

Temakitto


28126 Newhall Ranch Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91355
The self-described “first established Japanese Burrito restaurant in Southern California” serves up inventive dishes with tuna, crab, salmon, Mongolian beef and pork belly. Sushi pizza and tuna nachos are also on the menu of this colorful cafe.

Kebab Grill


18517 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91351
Fresh Mediterranean fare is on the menu at this spot – from the beef and chicken shawarma to the lamb skewers. If you prefer your shawarma as an appetizer, you can order the shawarma fries topped with a mix of three kinds of cheese, choice of chicken or beef and sour cream.

 

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Out and About: Virtual Tourism

There’s never been a better time to explore the world. From the Louvre to the Smithsonian to the Guggenheim, the largest museums around the globe are now as close as your screen, thanks to the arrival of virtual tours designed to carry you through their corridors and exhibits. For a population increasingly isolated as current events unfold, this online arena offers a welcome reprieve from confinement and the chance to glimpse cultures, civilizations and works of art that might have otherwise gone ignored. From Manhattan and Paris to London and Sao Paulo, here are 10 museums to seek out – without ever having to step foot in an airport. 

British Museum: London

And now for something truly epic, this legendary museum’s interactive virtual tour of the world’s history spans roughly two million years. Along the way, you can explore the religions, conflicts, and triumphs of a multitude of civilizations that have dotted our planet through the ages. Additionally, the museum, which is closed due to the pandemic, allows virtual tourists to wander its halls and discover artifacts including the Rosetta Stone. If that still leaves you unsatisfied, supplement the virtual tours by listening to A History of the World in 100 Objects, a podcast narrated by the museum’s director Neil MacGregor.

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History: Washington, D.C.

Especially for kids, you can’t go wrong with dinosaurs, fossils and mysterious creatures from the depths. So take them along for this virtual tour and embrace the adventure.

The Louvre

The world’s largest art museum, this Paris landmark, located on the Right Bank of the Seine, measures more than 782,000 square feet and displays more than 38,000 artifacts and works from prehistory to the present – all of which can be appreciated from your home now.

African American History and Culture: Washington, D.C.

This museum and its 35,000 artifacts set out to do nothing less than telling the story of America. Although the virtual tour offers only a glimpse of all that the museum has to provide visitors, it’s impressive nonetheless.

Russia’s State Hermitage Museum: St. Petersburg, Russia

This stunning video – remarkably filmed in 4K in one continuous take on an iPhone 11 Pro – spans more than five hours as it carries you through this museum in St. Petersburg, Russia. All told, the tour covers 45 galleries and 588 artistic masterpieces.

Uffizi Gallery, Florence 

One of the most prestigious art museums in Italy and the world, the Uffizi Gallery sits adjacent to the Piazza Della Signoria in the Historic Centre of Florence in Tuscany, Italy. Built-in 1560, its treasures include works from the Italian Renaissance, all of which can be explored here.  

MASP, Sao Paulo 

Considered Brazil’s first modern museum, the Museu de Arte de São Paulo is a non-profit boasting a collection of more than 8,000 works, including sculptures, paintings, and photographs from across continents. 

Guggenheim Museum, New York 

As renowned for the skylight and spiral staircase at its center as its vast collection of art, now you can explore both, thanks to Google’s Street View feature. 

Musée d’Orsay, Paris

Located on the left bank of the Seine, this museum is housed in a former railway station and features mostly French works dating from 1848 to 1914. Take their virtual tour and browse masterpieces from the likes of Monet, Renoir, Seurat and Van Gogh.

National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City

Focused on Mexico’s pre-Hispanic civilizations and culture, this museum features more than 20 exhibit rooms, complete with Mayan artifacts. 

  

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