Posts

Posted on

From Meta AI to a Nintendo Music App and More! | Tech News

Stay connected to the latest tech news headlines! From Meta AI to a Nintendo Music App and more, we have you covered. Check out our weekly round-up below!

Meta’s Llama AI Expands into Public Sector for Positive Impact

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced that the company is collaborating with the U.S. government to use Llama AI for impactful public sector projects. Initial partnerships with the State Department focus on improving access to essential resources like safe water and electricity and supporting small businesses, while discussions with the Department of Education aim to simplify the financial aid process for students. Meta’s ambitious AI expansion includes a powerful Llama model in development, set to bring advanced reasoning and faster performance in 2025. Meanwhile, Meta continues to grow, reporting $40.5 billion in Q3 revenue and a 5% increase in daily app users, underscoring its commitment to innovation and public benefit.

Nothing Launches Glow-in-the-Dark Phone 2A Plus Community Edition

Nothing has announced the Phone 2A Plus Community Edition, a limited-edition smartphone featuring a glow-in-the-dark design created through a community-driven contest. Developed by designers Astrid Vanhuyse and Kenta Akasaki, the phone’s phosphorescent green tint requires only daylight to emit a soft glow for hours. Its custom packaging, crafted by Ian Henry Simmonds, mirrors the glow-in-the-dark theme. This first co-creation effort from Nothing drew over 900 design submissions, with only 1,000 units available for purchase starting November 12 for $399. The phone also includes six new wallpapers, the “Connected Collection,” and is marketed with the campaign “Find your light. Capture your light.”

Nintendo Launches Nostalgic Music App for Switch Online Subscribers

While fans await Nintendo’s next console, the company has surprised us with Nintendo Music. The Nintendo mobile app for Switch Online subscribers features classic tunes from iconic games like Splatoon, Animal Crossing, and The Legend of Zelda. Available on iOS and Android, the app offers curated playlists by game, character, and mood, plus options to create custom playlists, stream, or download tracks for offline enjoyment. The Unique features include a spoiler filter and loop settings for extended listening. Likewise, this allows Nintendo users to enjoy anything from Hyrule ambiance to full game soundtracks uninterrupted.

Google’s Pixel 9 Debuts Smart Weather App for Real-Time Summaries

The new standalone Google Weather app on the Pixel 9 uses AI to give clear, concise summaries of daily weather, helping users know at a glance if they’ll need an umbrella. The app syncs with saved locations on Pixel devices, letting users track multiple spots, view weather data on maps, and customize information blocks. Available on Pixel 6, 7, 8, and 9 models, this feature-rich app is a fresh choice for users seeking an alternative since Dark Sky’s closure in 2020.

Google Wallet Expands to Kids with Parental Controls for In-Store Purchases

Google will soon allow kids to use Google Wallet on Android phones, enabling in-store purchases through tap-to-pay, with parental controls via the Google Family Link app. Parents can approve new cards, monitor transactions, and control access, while kids can use fingerprint, facial recognition, PIN, or passwords for secure payments. The feature, set to roll out in the US and other countries next year, limits online purchases and excludes health or ID cards, offering a safe, parent-supervised way for kids to manage funds—catching up with Apple’s Apple Cash Family service.

Posted on

New Restaurants – Week of October 31 | L.A. Eats

In Los Angeles, culinary innovation continues to thrive with new restaurants offering diverse flavors and unique dining experiences. Whether you’re craving smoky wood-fired meats, Caribbean-infused rotis, or delicate Japanese sashimi, the latest arrivals in LA’s dining scene promise something for everyone. Here’s a look at some standout spots redefining the city’s food culture.

MXO

Location: 826 North La Cienega Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90069

Wes Avila’s MXO, a West Hollywood steakhouse, brings a bit of Monterrey, Mexico to LA with an enticing focus on wood-fired cooking. Created in collaboration with Giancarlo Pagani and SBE’s Sam Nazarian, MXO is all about bold, communal dining experiences. The birria beef martillo, crafted from premium wagyu beef, served with marrow and consomé, and perfect for groups of up to 12, is a centerpiece at $275. Alongside large-format meats, find playful dishes like Okinawa sweet potato tacos, queso fundido, and a grilled cabbage Caesar.

The Benjamin

Location: 7174 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90046

Bringing Art Deco elegance to Melrose Avenue, The Benjamin is Ben Shenassafar’s stylish debut into the restaurant world. This American-inspired bistro offers comfort foods diners crave on any given night. Classics like a well-executed cheeseburger, crispy crab beignets, and cocktails like ice-cold martinis make it a hot reservation. Shenassafar’s background with the Hundreds and Family Style shines in a space where trendy, well-traveled patrons feel right at home.

Udatsu

Location: 6634 West Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90028

Udatsu, the acclaimed Michelin-starred new omakase spot from Tokyo led by chef Hisashi Udatsu, brings a refined sushi experience to Los Angeles. Located above Rokusho, this intimate establishment serves an exquisite 17-course omakase highlighting seasonal sashimi and nigiri. Guests are treated to specialties like Hokkaido and Santa Barbara sea urchin, aged tuna, and a beautifully crafted sardine roll — all in a calm, modern space designed for an immersive sushi journey.

Norikaya

Location: 554 South Western Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90020

Norikaya is Chef Akira Back’s latest venture, an energetic temaki bar nestled in the heart of Koreatown. Partnering with Robert Kim, Back brings hand rolls and small bites inspired by his Korean-Japanese roots and honed in his global ventures. Here, simple hand rolls are elevated with top-quality ingredients, served at an elegant counter where guests can unwind and savor elevated sushi culture.

Bridgetown Roti

Location: 858 N. Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90029

Finally grounded in a permanent space, Bridgetown Roti, an Eater 2021 Best New Restaurant, offers East Hollywood a taste of Caribbean-inflected dishes. Chef Rashisa Holmes showcases traditional roti made with Grist & Toll flours, filled with everything from chicken curry to green curry shrimp. Other highlights include weekend-only doubles, oxtail patties, and cod fish cakes. Be ready for a wait — these creations have made Bridgetown an instant hit.

Barr Seco

Location: 3820 West Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90026

Sister to the Silver Lake hotspot Santo, Barr Seco operates as a cafe by day and a cozy bar by night. Chef David Potes’ menu complements the natural wine selection curated by former Kismet sommelier Kae Whalen, with dishes like scallop crudo and adobo-marinated pork tostadas. This dual-purpose spot provides a comfortable yet refined environment for casual dining or a night out.

Komal Molino

Location: 3655 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90007

New restaurant Komal Molino is the brainchild of Chef Fátima Juárez, a veteran of the celebrated Holbox. With partner Conrado Rivera, Juárez serves Mexican dishes rooted in her upbringing and prepared with heirloom corn masa made by hand. Each item, from the Taco Sonia to family-recipe squash bread, tells a story of heritage and culinary passion.

Bar Sinizki

Location: 3147 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90039

Chef Scott Zwiezen’s Bar Sinizki is inspired by the all-day cafes he encountered across Eastern Europe in the ’90s. Located in Atwater Village, the new cafe features a checkered floor and marble bar reminiscent of Vienna and Berlin’s laid-back charm. Offering pierogi, steak frites, and tartines from breakfast to dinner, this no-reservation spot welcomes guests with familiar flavors and relaxed vibes.

Butchr Bar

Location: 301 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90026

Tyson and Bridgette Blackney’s Butchr Bar serves Westlake a selection of small plates, charcuterie, and Australian-imported wagyu. This new restaurant combines butchery expertise with a love of wine. Additionally, the family-owned bar provides a cozy setting for wine and meat lovers alike, with options for solo diners or larger cuts like tomahawks for groups.

Camélia

Location: 1850 Industrial Street, Los Angeles, California 90021

The former Caboco space now houses Camélia, a French-Japanese bistro from the team behind Tsubaki and Ototo. Chef Charles Namba and Courtney Kaplan elevate French fare with Japanese ingredients. Endulge in aioli with pickled turnips or beef cheeks paired with crispy burdock root. Creative cocktails round out this stylish experience in LA’s Arts District.

Mala Class

Location: 5816 York Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90042

Mala Class, a modern Sichuan eatery in Highland Park, offers revamped Chinese favorites in a relaxed setting. Helmed by two New York City dining veterans, the menu includes dan dan noodles, chile oil dumplings, and sesame noodles. With affordable prices and a friendly atmosphere, it’s a refreshing addition for fans of Sichuan cuisine outside the SGV.

Posted on

Top Fall Camping Spots | Out & About

As autumn rolls in, Southern California’s scorching summer temperatures begin to mellow, creating the perfect backdrop for a camping adventure. Fall’s crisp air, vibrant foliage, and less crowded campgrounds make it an ideal season for outdoor enthusiasts to embrace nature. Whether you prefer the ocean breeze, desert serenity, or mountain chill, here are some of the best fall camping spots in Southern California.

1. Joshua Tree National Park

  • Why Visit: Famous for its stunning rock formations, spiky Joshua trees, and starlit skies, Joshua Tree is a top destination for fall camping. As summer’s intense heat subsides, fall brings cooler, more comfortable temperatures. It’s an excellent time for stargazing, rock climbing, and hiking among the unique desert landscapes.
  • Campgrounds: Hidden Valley and Jumbo Rocks are two popular campgrounds, offering proximity to hiking trails and fantastic rock formations. Make reservations early, as these spots are in high demand during fall.

2. Idyllwild Park

  • Why Visit: Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild offers a quintessential mountain camping experience. Fall is a magical time here, with cooler mountain temperatures and colorful foliage. It’s a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers.
  • Campgrounds: Idyllwild Park Campground is a favorite for its scenic views and easy access to hiking trails. For a more rustic experience, the nearby Mount San Jacinto State Park offers campgrounds with less development and more seclusion.

3. Point Mugu State Park

  • Why Visit: For beach lovers, Point Mugu State Park along the Malibu coast is a stunning fall destination. The fall months mean smaller crowds, cooler weather, and a quieter coastline. The park features five miles of ocean shoreline, making it perfect for beachcombing, surfing, and hiking coastal trails.
  • Campgrounds: Sycamore Canyon Campground offers a serene setting with both mountain and ocean views. It’s a great spot for those who want to experience the coast’s beauty without the summer hustle and bustle.

4. Lake Hemet

  • •Why Visit: Set against the San Jacinto Mountains, Lake Hemet is a family-friendly fall camping destination with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. The surrounding pine forests turn golden, making autumn hikes particularly picturesque.
  • •Campgrounds: Lake Hemet Campground offers lakeside sites that are perfect for fishing enthusiasts. It’s also known for its kid-friendly atmosphere and proximity to water activities.

5. Big Bear Lake

  • Why Visit: Big Bear Lake’s cool alpine climate and stunning fall foliage make it a top camping destination in Southern California. The area boasts numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking, and the lake offers kayaking and fishing options.
  • Campgrounds: Serrano Campground is one of the most popular spots, with sites near the lake and access to biking and hiking trails. In the fall, the aspen and oak trees turn brilliant shades of yellow and orange.

6. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

  • Why Visit: The vast, rugged landscapes of Anza-Borrego are perfect for fall exploration. As the largest state park in California, it offers a wide array of hiking trails, unique geological formations, and some of the best stargazing opportunities in the state. Fall temperatures are mild, making it ideal for day hikes and night-time astronomy.
  • Campgrounds: Borrego Palm Canyon Campground is the main camping area, offering a mix of developed and primitive sites. The nearby palm oasis and seasonal waterfalls make it a must-visit during the cooler months.

7. Malibu Creek State Park

  • Why Visit: With its rolling hills, oak woodlands, and dramatic rock formations, Malibu Creek State Park is a favorite among hikers, rock climbers, and bird watchers. Fall brings cooler temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the park’s diverse landscapes.
  • Campgrounds: The Malibu Creek Campground offers easy access to the park’s trails and scenic views of the Santa Monica Mountains. It’s a fantastic spot for those looking to escape the city and enjoy a fall weekend in nature.

8. Leo Carrillo State Park

  • Why Visit: For those who want to camp by the beach, Leo Carrillo State Park in Malibu is a top choice. In fall, the crowds dwindle, making it easier to enjoy the sandy beaches, tide pools, and coastal trails. Fall weather is still warm enough for beach activities without the summer heat.
  • Campgrounds: The Leo Carrillo Campground is shaded by giant sycamores, offering a cool and comfortable camping experience. It’s just a short walk from the beach and great for families.

From the high desert’s expansive views to the coastline’s calming waves, Southern California’s diverse landscape offers endless possibilities for fall camping. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to outdoor adventures, these destinations promise a memorable experience surrounded by the beauty of the season.

Posted on

Top Crown Molding Styles | Home Tips

Crown molding is one of those subtle but impactful design elements that can elevate any room’s appearance. It’s a decorative feature installed where the ceiling meets the walls, adding architectural interest and a touch of refinement. Whether you’re updating a classic home or designing a modern one, the right crown molding style can transform a space from plain to luxurious. Below are eight of the most elegant styles to consider for your home:

1. Traditional Crown Molding

crown molding

This quintessential choice for classic homes is characterized by its curved, sweeping lines and layered design. This style typically features intricate details that mimic ancient Greek and Roman architecture, making it perfect for those who love a vintage or timeless look. It works beautifully in formal rooms like dining rooms or entryways where you want to make a lasting impression.

2. Modern Minimalist Molding

crown molding

For those with a taste for clean lines and simplicity, modern minimalist molding is an excellent option. This style is often narrow, sleek, and understated, providing just enough detail to define the space without overwhelming it. It’s an ideal choice for contemporary or modern homes where less is more, creating a streamlined, sophisticated look.

3. Cove Crown Molding

crown molding

This type of molding is a simple, curved style that blends seamlessly with ceilings and walls. It has a concave shape, with no sharp edges or ornate detailing, making it a great choice for those who prefer subtle elegance. The smooth, rounded profile suits both traditional and modern interiors, adding a touch of softness to any room.

4. Dentil Crown Molding

crown molding

Known for its distinctive “teeth-like” pattern, this style is a bold and classic choice. This style features a repeating pattern of small, square blocks that resemble teeth, adding a sense of grandeur and sophistication to any space.

5. Craftsman Crown Molding

This style is defined by its simple lines and robust construction. This style is perfect for homes with a rustic or traditional design aesthetic. The molding typically has a straight, chunky profile that emphasizes natural wood grain or clean, painted finishes. It’s a perfect fit for bungalow-style homes or any interior aiming for a warm, inviting feel.

6. Egg and Dart Crown Molding

crown molding

The egg and dart pattern is a classic motif that dates back to ancient architecture. It consists of alternating oval (egg) and pointed (dart) shapes, adding texture and visual interest to a room. It’s a versatile option that pairs well with other ornamental elements like wainscoting or decorative ceiling medallions.

7. Stepped Crown Molding

For a dramatic and layered look, consider stepped crown molding. This style features multiple layers that “step” up toward the ceiling, creating depth and visual intrigue. This style is an excellent choice for high ceilings, as it draws the eye upward, emphasizing the height of the room. It adds a luxurious, custom-built feel to any space.

8. Art Deco Crown Molding

crown molding

Art Deco crown molding is all about geometric shapes, symmetry, and bold lines. Inspired by the 1920s and 1930s design era, this style is perfect for those looking to add a touch of glamour and drama to their interiors. It works particularly well in spaces with other Art Deco elements, such as mirrored furniture, metallic accents, and dark, rich colors.

Posted on

Economic Update | Week Ending October 26, 2024

Weekly Economic Update WEU econ
Stock markets sold off this week as investors took profits and moved to bonds, ended six weeks of gains and moving the Dow and S&P off their record highs last week. Bond yields have spiked as recent data suggests that the economy is picking up steam which could reignite inflation. This jump in bond yields began after the September jobs report which revealed that 254,000 new jobs were created, over 100,000 more new jobs than expected. Wages also jumped from their July and August levels. New jobless claims this week were lower than they were in July and August when it looked like hiring was stalling for the second straight week. Consumer confidence also jumped this week. Unfortunately, a heating economy could cause inflation to increase. That pushes up bond yields and mortgage rates. Both are a little over 1/2% higher than they were just a month ago when the Fed dropped short term rates. The Nasdaq closed the week slightly higher and just below its all-time high set July 10, as tech company profits are coming in strong.

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 42,114.40, down 2.7% from 42,275.91 last week. It is up 11.2% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,808.12, down 0.6% from 5,864.67 last week. The S&P is up 21.8% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 18,518.61, up 0.2% from 18,489.55 last week. It is up 23.4% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.25%, up from 4.08% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.51%, up from 4.38% 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 October 17, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.54%, up from 6.44% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.71%, up from 5.63% last week.

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

Home sales data is released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the National Association of Realtors. These are September’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales September 2024 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 3.84 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in September, down 3.5% from an annualized rate of 3.98 million units last September. The median price for a home sold in the U.S. in September was $404,500, up 3% from $392,700 one year ago. There was a 4.3-month supply of homes for sale in September, up from a 3.4-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 26% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 18% of all sales. All-cash purchases accounted for 30% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 2% of all sales.

Have a great weekend!
Posted on

Mortgage Rate Update | October 24, 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 October 24, 2024, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.54%, up from 6.44% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.71%, up from 5.63% 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.

Posted on

From Prime Perks to Apple iOS 18 and More! | Tech News

Wrap up your week with the leading tech news headlines! We have you covered from Prime Member Perks to iOS 18 updates and more. Check out the major tech and media announcements from the week below!

Apple Expands Default App Options for iPhone Users Globally

Apple has announced that all iPhone users, not just those in the EU, can set default apps for calling and messaging in iOS 18.2. This iOS change initially thought to be exclusive to the EU, was confirmed on Apple’s developer website and spotted in the first iOS 18.2 beta by 9to5Mac. A new settings section allows users worldwide to manage default apps, including browser, email, call filtering, and more. This update is part of Apple’s broader response to EU regulations, which also supported RCS, though features like alternative app stores remain EU-specific. By extending some of these options iOS globally, Apple ensures a more consistent experience across regions.

Amazon Prime Adds Gas Savings to Member Benefits

Amazon Prime members can now save 10 cents per gallon at BP and Amoco stations by linking their Amazon account with BP’s loyalty program, Earnify. This discount is similar to Walmart’s offer through its Walmart Plus program at Exxon stations. Although joining requires sharing some data with BP, you can link your account by providing a phone number, with no need to download the app. Amazon plans to expand its savings to include EV charging by 2025, a move to enhance Prime’s value as subscription costs rise. The addition of perks like free food delivery through Grubhub has helped boost Prime membership, which now includes about 75% of Amazon shoppers.

Lomography Launches Upgraded Lomo’Instant Wide Glass Camera

Lomography has released the Lomo’Instant Wide Glass, featuring a new multi-coated glass 90mm lens, promising sharper images compared to its plastic predecessor. Priced at $279, the new model is a step up from the original $169 plastic version but still faces competition from alternatives like the Nons SL660 and Fujifilm’s Instax Wide 400, which costs $149.95. The Lomo’Instant Wide Glass uses Instax Wide film, is notably bulky at 7.3 inches wide, and includes extras like colored filters and a Splitzer attachment for creative shots. It offers both automatic and manual modes, with focus zones ranging from close-up to infinity and a simple optical viewfinder. Powered by four AA batteries, it retains a nostalgic, lo-fi charm, with the option to use rechargeables for an eco-friendly touch.

Spotify Introduces Custom Cover Art Feature for Playlists

Spotify now offers a “Create cover art” feature for playlists, allowing users to make personalized collages with layered images, effects, and stickers. Available in beta to both free and Premium members in 65 English-speaking markets, Spotify collaborated with renowned artists like Ugly Primo and Cey Adams for the design elements. While users can rotate, resize, and layer images, editing options are limited—images can’t be modified once saved, and drafts aren’t available. This feature differs from YouTube Music’s AI-driven approach, offering a more interactive, hands-on experience with 40 custom stickers. To use it, open a playlist, tap the three dots, and select “Create cover art.”

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy Launch New Tech-Infused Golf League, TGL

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy are set to debut TGL, a high-tech, team-based golf league, with the first match airing on ESPN and ESPN Plus on January 7th. TGL features a stadium setting where teams drive balls into a 3,400-square-foot screen before playing on a dynamic, artificial green that shifts between holes with advanced motorized technology. Each two-hour match involves three players from each team, with six teams competing overall, including Woods’ Jupiter Links Golf Club and McIlroy’s Boston Common Golf. The season kicks off with a matchup between New York Golf Club and The Bay Golf Club. Tickets for in-person events at SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, start at $160, with sales beginning October 28th, and the season concluding in March with a Finals Series.

Posted on

Weekend Events | October 25 – 27

Spooky season is almost over! Don’t miss out on all the October activities happening locally around town. Check out our weekend round-up of fall-approved fun happening from October 25 through October 27!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 25 – 27 

AFI Fest

When: Until October 27  

Where: Hollywood

What: Catch future box-office hits and discover unique indie gems at the annual AFI Fest in Hollywood. Each day features a curated selection of films screened at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre and the Chinese 6 Theatres. The full schedule is available online, showcasing red-carpet premieres and exclusive screenings with Q&A sessions featuring renowned filmmakers and stars like Tom Hanks, Amy Adams, and Glenn Close. The festival also includes Oscar-worthy international films, documentaries, and shorts, plus a “Luminaries” section highlighting new works from celebrated directors such as Mike Leigh, Julie Delpy, and David Cronenberg.

KCRW Masquerade Ball

When: October 25 

Where: South Park

What: Get your costume ready—L.A.’s beloved public radio station, KCRW, is reviving its legendary Halloween masquerade ball for the first time since 2018. This year, the 21-and-over party takes over the Mayan, featuring DJ sets from fan-favorite on-air hosts like Novena Carmel, SiLVA, and Travis Holcombe, along with special performances by Remi Wolf and Say She She.

Día de los Muertos at Hollywood Forever

When: October 26 

Where: Hollywood

What: Hollywood Forever Cemetery hosts California’s largest Day of the Dead celebration, featuring vibrant altars, dance rituals, musical performances, and traditional crafts. This year’s theme, “Tonas and Nahuales,” honors indigenous Mesoamerican spiritual guides, with the event returning to an all-day format and staggered admission times. As always, the illuminated altars are stunning after dark, but expect the biggest crowds then.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | October 25 – 27  

“Trick or Drink” Bar Crawl

When: October 26 – October 31 

Where: West Hollywood

What: Explore nine of the Sunset Strip’s top spots in one night with this Halloween bar crawl. Start at the Den on Sunset to pick up your wristband, unlocking special prices and themed drinks at West Hollywood favorites like Andaz, Hotel Ziggy, Skybar, and more. For an extra thrill on October 26 or 31, hop on the free Afterlife Transfer Trolley, a haunted ride between bars.

Cirque du Soleil: Kooza

When: October 19 – December 1 

Where: Downtown Santa Monica

What: Cirque du Soleil brings its high-flying show KOOZA to the beach, leaving DTLA for Santa Monica. This marks the troupe’s first performance under the big top by the Santa Monica Pier since 2014.

South Coast Botanic Garden’s Dogtoberfest

When: Until October 27 

Where: Rancho Palos Verdes

What: South Coast Botanic Garden’s popular dog-walking hours expand to every weekend in October for the new Dogtoberfest. Along with dog-friendly walking paths, the event features an Oktoberfest-inspired pub crawl for humans, offering free beer samples at four stations (with full pours, pretzels, and bratwurst available for purchase). The fun continues for pups with a “dance pawty,” obstacle course, and a marketplace.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | October 25 – 27

Vegan-Friendly Kids Halloween Party!

When: October 26 

Where: Love Always Sanctuary | 9841 La Tuna Canyon Road Los Angeles, CA 91352

What: Join us for a family-friendly, all-vegan Halloween event benefiting Love Always Sanctuary, in partnership with Plant Based Treaty! Enjoy trick-or-treating with rescued animals, a kids’ costume contest, games, a dance party, and vegan treats. Space is limited, so reserve your spot for a fun, compassionate celebration with goats, donkeys, and more!

House of Spirits: A Haunted Cocktail Soirée

When: Until November 2

Where: Glendale

What: Step into a Glendale theater (324 N Orange St, Glendale) for a supernatural soirée filled with magic, hauntings, and mystery that will send shivers down your spine. House of Spirits offers a two-hour immersive experience where you can explore eerie performances and macabre pop-ups, all while sipping on themed drinks. Each ticket includes four mini cocktails to accompany your chilling adventure.

Encino Outdoor Movie Night Presents “ The Nightmare Before Christmas”

When: October 26 

Where: Los Angeles Equestrian Center | 480 Riverside Drive Burbank

What: Get ready for a magical night under the stars with Encino Outdoor Movie Night featuring “The Nightmare Before Christmas”! Bring your chairs and blankets for a fun, family-friendly Halloween movie night at an enclosed field. Gates open at 6pm, with a spirited costume contest at 6:30pm before the movie starts at 7pm. Enjoy your own picnic or grab treats from the food truck on site—don’t forget to register for free tickets to secure your spot!

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | October 25 – 27 

City of Malibu Bu Bash Halloween Carnival

When: October 25, 2pm – 7pm

Where: Malibu Bluffs Park

What: Join the City of Malibu Community Services Department for the Bu Bash Halloween Carnival Spooktacular on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 2 PM to sunset at Malibu Bluffs Park! Designed for kids ages 2-10, the event includes arts and crafts, carnival games, a costume catwalk, bounce houses, food trucks, and a “Trick or Treat Street.” 

Peace Pumpkin Fest in Camarillo

When: October 26, 10am – 3pm

Where: 71 Loma Dr, Camarillo

What: Celebrate the 14th Annual Peace Pumpkin Fest at Peace Lutheran Church, 71 Loma Drive, Camarillo, on Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 10 AM to 3 PM. Enjoy free admission, with tickets available for attractions like hay rides, face painting, carnival games, inflatables, a petting zoo, and more. Don’t miss out on family-friendly fun, including tasty hot dogs!

10th Annual Dia de los Muertos Festival at Strathearn Park

When: October 27, 11am – 5pm

Where: Strathearn Historical Park, 137 Strathearn Pl, Simi Valley, CA 93065

What: Join the Simi Valley Historical Society for the 10th Annual Día de los Muertos festival on Sunday, October 27, 2024, from 11 AM to 5 PM at Strathearn Historical Park & Museum. Enjoy music, crafts, face painting, food, and traditional altars honoring loved ones. Costumes are encouraged for this family-friendly celebration of remembrance and culture.

Posted on

The Best Local Diners | L.A. Eats

LA boasts a variety of diners for every craving. Whether you’re in the heart of the city, the Westside, or venturing out to the San Fernando and Conejo Valleys, there’s no shortage of classic spots to enjoy a nostalgic meal. Check out our top picks for the best local diners.

LOS ANGELES DINERS

Clark Street Diner

Location: Los Angeles

When it comes to retro cool diners, Clark Street Diner is where it’s at. Enjoy a menu of options with responsibly sourced ingredients. Our recommendation is the breakfast sandwich, served on crusty sliced bread instead of a bun. Yum!

House of Pies

Location: Los Feliz

Don’t let the name fool you; there are more than just pies at this Los Feliz Diner. At House of Pies, Breakfast is served all day, and Thanksgiving dinner is served year-round. Likewise, this beloved joint serves up not-to-be-missed pies. Stop by any time of day, from am to pm and even late at night.

Sapp Coffee Shop

Location: Los Angeles

We know what you’re thinking…a coffee shop on a diner’s list? Well, Sapp Coffee Shop is not your traditional American diner. From the food to the vibe, expect unique choices to nosh on. Try the fried egg-topped fried rice or soulful noodle soups like the famous boat noodle soup that Anthony Bourdain popularized in the late aughts.

WESTSIDE DINERS

Ronnie’s Diner

Location: Culver City

As far as Westside diners go, Ronnie’s is doing everything right. Enjoy great renditions of diner classics. Tasty options include pillowy cinnamon roll pancakes topped with a swirl of vanilla icing, a chorizo breakfast bowl, and more.

The Serving Spoon

Location: Inglewood

With so many diners around town, the iconic ‘The Serving Spoon’ deserves to top the list. Located in a strip mall in Inglewood, you can enjoy great options like eggs, waffles, French toast, and fried chicken. Owners Angela and J.C. Johnson took over from Angela’s father back in 2004, but the Serving Spoon, which has been operating since 1983, continues to weather the changes in the neighborhood by leaning on old-fashioned customer service and charm.

Ocean Diner

Location: Hermosa Beach

One of the South Bay’s most beloved diners, Ocean Diner is a toss-back to 1940s kitsch. Though the restaurant itself is only about 25 years old, the look and feel of the place are pure timeless Americana.

 

SAN FERNANDO DINERS

Lancers Family Restaurant

Location: Burbank

This pastel-toned Burbank diner staple continues to turn out some of the Valley’s best breakfasts for generations of families. Opt for a cozy booth, or squeeze into a counter seat for even faster service.

Nat’s Early Bite Coffee Shop

Location: Sherman Oaks

This Valley staple comes with a hearty side of Mexican breakfast classics, from chorizo and eggs to more inventive scrambles and lunchtime fares like burgers and meatloaf sandwiches.

Mel’s Drive-In

Location: Sherman Oaks

With multiple locations in LA, from Sherman Oaks to Hollywood and West Hollywood to Santa Monica, this enduring ‘50s-style diner serves from morning to late night for hungry students and night owls in need of a hefty meal at an affordable price. Perhaps the vintage look of the restaurants is more appealing than the actual food, but that’s totally acceptable.

CONEJO VALLEY DINERS

Bo’s House of Omelettes & Waffles

Location: Thousand Oaks

Long-standing in the neighborhood, Bo’s House of Omelettes & Waffles has much to offer as far as diners go. The low-key hangout features hearty breakfasts, sandwiches & Mexican staples.

Lovi’s Delicatessen

Location: Calabasas

At Lovi’s, you can expect what most Delicatessens offer – great deli options. Enjoy the classic deli sandwiches, sushi, all-day breakfast & cocktails, served in a casual-chic space.

Agoura’s Famous Deli

Location: Agoura Hills

Settle into one of the comfortable booths at Agoura’s Famous Deli. This Agoura Hills eatery features breakfast favorites, sandwiches & smoked fish, plus homestyle entrees.

Proudly powered by WordPress