Out and About: West Hollywood Edition

West Hollywood is full of amazing sites, bites, shops and sounds. The style of which depends on your preference. From the Rock History of the Sunset Strip to priceless art hung in Miracle Miles Museum Row. Spend a day on Route 66, and discover one of LA’s most popular neighborhoods!

From AM:

If your an early riser we recommend a morning jog along the city’s most famed hiking trail–Runyon Canyon.

Runyon Canyon

The trail is always buzzing with celebrities and LA locals kicking off their morning fitness routine. Feel free to bring your furry friend too as Runyon Canyon is a pet-friendly jogging trail with amazing city views!

After you have worked up your energy settle down for a quintessential California meal at the neighborhood favorite–BBCM or The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker if you can say that three times fast.

BBCM Cafe

Sit outside under perfectly pruned Olive trees while you enjoy the LA morning sun and their selection of gourmet organic menu options.

Once you’ve finished with breakfast, it is time to venture off to the days next destination. We recommend a quick Uber ride over to the Miracle Mile where LA’s top museums await you.

LACMA

Start off at LACMA to view a range of Modern Contemporary Art and Exhibits. For those that prefer the kind of art that hits the road, the Peterson Automotive Museum is right across the street.

Peterson Automotive Museum

And for our movie buffs, soon enough the Academy will debut their Museum right alongside LACMA where priceless wardrobes and set pieces from famed films will be on view.

Stride a bit further outdoors and you’ll likely smell before you see–the La Brea Tar Pits. Long before Tesla’s roamed the streets of LA, Mastodons called it home.

La Brea Tar Pits

This landmark exhibit is still an excavation site for paleontologists that continuously discover new artifacts preserved in the tar of its former residents.

Needing a bit more culture on the top of your Contemporary Sundae?  The MAK Center now serves as an Art & Architecture headquarters of LACMA but is most notably known as R.M. Schindler’s 1920’s abode. The homes current mainstay are the events and exhibitions that take place there throughout the year, as well as the children’s activities available daily.

To Afternoon: 

Once you’ve had your fill of Weho’s art scene, make your way to famed Melrose Ave. Predominantly known as the hub for the city’s best in unique and chic apparel.

Vivienne Westwood

From Vivienne Westwood to John Varvatos, there is something stylish for all.

After your fashion overhaul is complete, it’s time for an afternoon nosh! Don’t stray away from the street your on because Melrose Ave. also serves as a premiere dining destination.

For gourmet Mexican, Gracias Madre rains supreme. So much so you’ll have a hard time believing its a vegan restaurant! Feeling for a bite on the heavier side?

Gracias Madre

Across the way and by way we mean street, is Cecconi’s. From the owners of Soho House, Cecconi’s is a pristine take on southern Italian. Between the modern designed interior to the delectable menu options, you’ll feel molto buona(very good)!

Cecconis

After a filling lunch, we recommend taking part in West Hollywoods Architectural Walk. Created by the West Hollywood Preservation Alliance, Walkable Weho: Architecture & Golden Era Walk is a captivating walk along the city’s premiere living gems.

Villa D’Este- West Hollywood

Begin your journey at Tara, the historic landmark building named after Tara from Gone with the Wind. Gaze upon 15 of Weho’s most famed residences, ending on the historic La Fountaine. Designed by Leland Bryant, the apartments served as a former home to celebrities like Bette Middler and Steve Martin.

To PM:

By the time you’ve walked, shopped and seen yourself out, it’s nightfall in LA and the real fun begins! Depending on your preference, the night in Weho can take you to any number of places. We recommend starting off with dinner at beloved eateries like Lucques or The Tower Bar.

Tower Bar- Sunset Tower Hotel

You’re likely to see a few famous faces along with enjoying award winning meals.

For our funny boned individuals, the Sunset Strip is home to comedian stomping grounds the Laugh Factory and the Comedy Store.

The Comedy Store

Both establishments have welcomed the likes of Eddie Murphy to Chevy Chase and still do the trick to this day.

Needing something on the buzzy side, further down the strip you’ll find the famed Rock N’ Roll Road.

The Roxy

With landmark venues like The Roxy and The Viper Room, you’ll not only be in the presence of Rock legend history, you may also discover a new favorite band.

Inspired to sing your own heart out?

Blind Dragon

Blind Dragon is the areas premiere Karaoke Bar from the h.Wood Group team(The Nice Guy, Delilah, 40 Love) with creative craft cocktails and belt worthy tunes.

For those wishing to dance the night away, 1OAK is never a disappointment if you don’t mind the line to get inside.

The Troubador

Otherwise, the true all-nighters venture over to the city’s Santa Monica Blvd for a truly lively atmosphere. The Troubador is always sure to put on a good show being another landmark musical hub.

Doheny Room

Next door The Doheny Room serves bites and sips downstairs with a NY club like atmosphere upstairs. And with party favorites like Pump, The Abbey, and Revolver throughout the street, you’ll have your pick of places.

No matter how your night ends, you can do no wrong along Route 66

 

 

Weekend Events: Dec. 14th-16th

As we find ourselves in the midst of the holiday season, the bounty of festive events in LA is a plenty. From performances of the Nutcracker to a Winter Wonderland in South LA…

Discover your inner Angeleno!

With all the hustle and bustle of our weekday routine we bring you a curated list of the weekends top activities happening throughout the city of stars.

Limited engagements taking place this Dec. 14th-16th

Friday, Dec. 14th

Moscow Ballet: Great Russian Nutcracker
Moscow Ballet: The Great Russian Nutcracker

Location:  The Wiltern

Christmas is coming and so is the one and only Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker: Dove of Peace Tour! Presenting world class Russian artists, hand-painted sets, and a 2 dancer Dove of Peace with a 20 foot wingspan.  The Great Russian Nutcracker brings the Christmas spirit to life for all ages, “Kids wide-eyed with delight!” says the New York Times. Experience the Dove of Peace Tour, spreading goodwill in over 100 cities across North America in 2018. Get seats now for the whole family and make memories for a lifetime at Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker!  www.nutcracker.com

Barry Manilow- A Very Barry Christmas!
Barry Manilow: A Very Barry Christmas

Location: Microsoft Theater

iHeart Radio’s KOST 103.5 Presents: Barry Manilow – A Very Barry Christmas! Pop culture icon Barry Manilow performs his special holiday concert on Friday, December 14. With worldwide sales of more than 80 million records, Barry Manilow’s success is a benchmark in popular music. His concerts sell out instantly. He is ranked as the top Adult Contemporary chart artist of all time, according to R&R (Radio & Records) and Billboard Magazines. Click here to purchase tickets.

Artisanal LA Holiday City Market
LA Holiday City Market

Location: Bank of America Plaza, Downtown

Gear up for the holiday season at this holiday pop-up, boasting over 20 artisanal vendors including makers, crafters and chefs. Local makers and crafters will display one-of-a-kind, festive goods to toast the season of oversized sweaters and hot chocolate (if L.A. weather permits). Find the fair in the lobby of DTLA’s Bank of America Building.

Saturday, Dec. 15th

Winter Wonderland-South LA
Winter Wonderland-South LA

Location: Baldwin Hills, Crenshaw

On Saturday, December 15th, Council member Marqueece Harris-Dawson will be hosting the 4th Annual Winter Wonderland at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw from 12 pm-4 pm. Winter Wonderland will be filled with fun holiday activities. Winter Wonderland will have snow sledding, a toy giveaway, food trucks, and music.

Susan Feniger Book Signing
Susan Feniger Book Signing

Location: Huntington Library, Pasadena

Susan Feniger of Border Grill and the Food Network’s Too Hot Tamales will be at The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens in the 1919 Café signing copies of Cooking with Too Hot TamalesMesa MexicanaCity Cuisine, and Susan Feniger’s Street Food. Meet the TV personality, restaurateur, cookbook author, and chef known for her eclectic and adventurous globally-inspired cuisine. Purchase one of her cookbooks from the 1919 Café to meet Chef Feniger and receive a personalized message inscribed in your book!

Dianne Reeves: Christmas Time is here
Dianne Reeves: Christmas Time is Here

Location: The Soraya, Northridge 

Songbird Dianne Reeves rings in the holidays at The Soraya with timeless jewels from her album Christmas Time is Here. The reigning diva of jazz was recently awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Juilliard, recognized for her “breathtaking virtuosity, improvisational prowess, and unique jazz and R&B style.” Join us for an evening with the four-time Grammy Award-winner for an unmatched holiday treat.

Sunday, Dec. 16th

Hammer Family Flicks: A Christmas Story
Hammer Museum Presents-A Christmas Story

Location: The Hammer Museum

Ralphie wants one thing for Christmas—a Red Ryder BB rifle—mounting a full-scale, hint-dropping, Santa-begging campaign in the face of a nasty bully, an overworked department-store Santa, and other wintry calamities in what the New York Times calls “maybe the best Christmas movie ever.” (1983, dir. Bob Clark, 94 min.) All ages are welcome. This free program is not ticketed.

An Afternoon of Poetry & Performance

 

An Afternoon of Poetry and Performance at The Broad

Location: The Broad Stage

Red Hen Press and the Broad Stage are proud to present An Afternoon of Poetry and Performance. The performance features California Poet Laureate Dana Gioia, contemporary poet Blas Falconer, and award-winning composer Morten Lauridsen with award-winning musicians Rod Gilfry and Carin Gilfry. The spiritual depth of Morten Lauridsen’s music will make for a thrilling venture into the radiant beauty of soul language.

Handels Messiah: Walt Disney Concert Hall
Handels Messiah-Walt Disney Concert Hall

Location: Walt Disney Concert Hall, DTLA

The perennially popular Handel’s Messiah jubilantly conducted by Artistic Director Grant Gershon and sung by the Los Angeles Master Chorale is a Christmastime concert experience not to be missed.

 

The Best Holiday Lights in LA 2018

Get into the spirit of the season and explore the city of stars decked with holly…well LED lights to be exact and maybe some holly. Read our round up below of the best holiday light installations and celebrations happening this month in LA!

The Los Angeles Arboretum and Botanic Garden

Moonlight Forest at The LA Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

The Moonlight Forest is an unforgettable evening of art, culture and discovery. Presented in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Moonlight Forest celebrates the time-honored tradition of lantern art. Master artisans from China’s Sichuan province have crafted a dazzling array of lanterns. The exhibition route is a gentle one-mile walk and takes about an hour.

L.A. Zoo Lights

LA Zoo Lights at the LA Zoo

Since its debut in 2014, L.A. Zoo Lights has grown into a can’t-miss nighttime holiday light experience. Glowing animals welcome you on an unforgettable night time journey that includes giant illuminated snowflakes, a disco ball forest, a whimsical herd of animated elephants, and a twinkling tunnel filled with dynamic swirls of color.

Enchanted: Forest of Light

Descanso Gardens-Enchanted Forest of Lights

Enchanted: Forest of Light is an interactive, nighttime experience that features a one-mile walk through ten lighting displays in some of the most beloved areas of Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge. While guests usually take about an hour to walk through Enchanted – Descanso Gardens recommends allowing at least 90 minutes to enjoy the experience.

Tree Lighting & Cocoa Concert

Tree Lighting and Cocoa Concert at Union Station

Make a stop at Union Station this holiday season. During the month of December, travel hub will be transformed into a winter wonderland. Features of the display include thousands of glistening lights, a “Cocoa Bar” with Elftenders, a Holiday Craft Zone, a Kids Zone, and selfies with Santa and the Snow Queen.

Grand Park’s Winter Glow

Winter Glow at Grand Park

Grand Park’s Winter Glow is a new month-long, immersive nighttime experience that’s taking over Grand Park in celebration of the holidays. Families will make new holiday memories strolling through this 12-acre art, projection and light display, exhibit and installation. Experience the wonder of Grand Park like never before – iconic elements of the park, including the Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain, will shine in new and exciting ways. Familiar pathways will lead to exciting new discoveries as Grand Park is transformed by the latest in light and projection technology.

Marina Lights

Burton Chace Parks’ Marina Lights

Marina Lights will cast a festive glow on Burton Chace Park from 4–10 p.m. nightly in December. Select Saturdays feature free entertainment, a warming station and refreshments for purchase. Highlights include Holiday Music by The Wonderelles and The Voices of Christmas; Holiday Movies, including the Frozen Sing-Along and Glow Party NYE. For more info, check out the Visit Marina del Rey page.

Candy Cane Lane

Candy Cane Lane-Woodland Hills

Every year, an eight square-block area of the San Fernando Valley neighborhood of Woodland Hills is transformed into Candy Cane Lane. A dazzling celebration of lights, figures and artificial snow, Candy Cane Lane is an informal group of Woodland Hills homeowners.  The annual event begins on the second Saturday of December and lasts through the end of the year.

Candy Cane Lane is located at the intersection of Lubao and Oxnard Streets in Woodland Hills.  The closest exit is Winnetka, off the 101 freeway. Residents ask that visitors drive by no later than 10 p.m. on weeknights and 11 p.m. on weekends.

Sleepy Hollow Christmas Lights Extravaganza 

Sleepy Hollow Christmas Lights Extravaganza-Torrance

Begin your visit to the Sleepy Hollow Christmas Lights Extravaganza from Pacific Coast Highway in Torrance, then slowly drive or stroll along Robert Road. Every home along this neighborhood road is festively decorated–glittering with lights. Local kids will often sell hot cocoa to visitors as they pass by their houses. The Sleepy Hollow Christmas lights start brightening the holidays the first full weekend of December and last until the first week of January.

Courtesy of: Discover Los Angeles

 

Weekend Events: Dec. 7th-9th

Now that “Festivus”  draws near, it is no better time to explore the city’s most joyous events this December. No matter your holiday of choice, there is something for all to enjoy. So throw on your tackiest sweater, take your spiced cider to go and venture out this holiday season!

With all the hustle and bustle of our weekday routine we bring you a curated list of the weekends top activities happening throughout the city of stars.

Discover your inner Angeleno!

Limited engagements taking place this Dec. 7th-9th

Friday, Dec. 7th

Yuletide Cinemaland

Location: Heritage Square Museum, Los Angeles

Street Food Cinema bring their signature brand of outdoor-screening magic to L.A.’s Heritage Square Museum with Yuletide Cinemaland. This festive celebration centers around a Charles Dickens-style town square.  Celebrate the nostalgia of classic holiday movies with Christmas carolers, food trucks, hot chocolate, mulled wine, craft beer and more. Explore picturesque Victorian-era homes dressed for the holidays, join piano sing-alongs and experience the Instagram-worthy Holiday Light Tunnel.  Click here for more info.

American Contemporary Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker Suite
The American Contemporary Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker Suite

Location: California Plaza, DTLA

Experience the wonder of The Nutcracker in this first person perspective showcase performed by the American Contemporary Ballet.  Witness this timeless tale  as you become the main character. Once the entertainment concludes, The Fairy will guide you to a celebration with champagne, live music and more! Click here for more info

Holiday Concerts in the Playhouse District
Holiday Concerts in the Playhouse District Presents: Little Brazil

Location: Vroman’s Courtyard-The Pasadena Playhouse, Pasadena

Enjoy the sounds of the season along with the Pasadena Playhouses’ Holiday display this Friday. Little Brazil brings their signature Brazilian flavors with holiday classics to the Vroman’s Courtyard. Complimentary coffee from The Next Chapter will also be served to all patrons. Experience a new kind of seasonal tradition! Click here for more info.

Saturday, Dec. 8th

Santa Monica Pub Crawl
Santa Monica Pub Crawl

Location: Santa Monica

What better way to jumpstart the holidays than jingling all the way to SMPC’s 10th annual holiday event. Ok, maybe no jingling but certainly a fair amount of festive fun. With over 6,000 patrons having crawled until their hearts content last year, this years event is sure to be just as memorable. The fee to take part is $15 and proceeds from the Pub Crawl will go towards the Westside Food Bank to aid those in need during the holiday season. Click here for more info.

Festival of Carols
Festival of Carols-Disney Concert Hall

Location: Disney Hall, DTLA

Whether you love a classic holiday song or just the joy of the season, the Festival of Carols is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. With over 100 classically trained carolers, this event is sure to warm the heart of even the most Grinch-iest of Grinches in your friend group. Click here for more info.

Snow Wonder
Snow Wonder

Location: Burton Chase Park

Ring in the holidays at Marina Del Rey’s annual Holiday celebration-Snow Wonder. Enjoy art, crafts, music, food and even real snow as Burton Chase Park is transformed into a Winter Wonderland. The event will also feature a fireworks display followed by the Marina’s Boat parade. Whether you chose to sled or sit in on the days fun, Snow Wonder is guaranteed to be a hit for the entire family. Click here for more info.

Sunday, Dec. 9th

Stevie Wonder’s House Full of Toys
Stevie Wonder-House Full of Toys Benefit Concert

Location: Staples Center

Stevie Wonder’s House Full of Toys returns for its 22nd year at the Staples Center in Downtown L.A. The event is hosted by the musician himself along with other special guest in order to raise funds to provide toys for thousands of children in orphanages, hospitals, and shelters. This year the show will also serve as a benefit concert for those affected by the recent California Wildfires. Concert-goers are encouraged to bring an unwrapped gift or toy. Click here for more  info.

Big Sunday’s 9th Annual Holiday Party & Sing Along
Big Sunday Annual Holiday Party and Sing Along

Location: 6111 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles 90038

Hosting their 9th annual Holiday party, Big Sunday is inviting all to join them and enjoy singing, food and fun with their guest of honor–the incredible kids from Ability First and other with disabilities large and small. In addition, volunteers are still needed to spread holiday cheer as they deck the halls and light a menorah along with loads of arts, crafts and festive treats. Click here for more info.

KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas 2018
KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas

Location: The Forum, Inglewood

Enjoy another year of KROQ’S end-of-year showcase with some of the best musical acts from around the country. Proceeds from the concert will go to benefit Para Los Niños and the Al Wooten Jr. Heritage Center.” Sundays lineup will include Florence + the Machine, Death Cab for Cutie, Billie Eilish, Chvrches and more! Click here for info.

 

Tis the Season for…the Holidays in LA pt.2

Now that the holidays are in full swing, the bounty of festive events is upon us. While it’s never quite “Winter” in LA, we certainly know how to make the magic of the season happen. With that in mind, we say pause your Netflix night in and don your best seasonal attire, Tis’ the Season for the Holidays in LA Pt. 2!!

Winter Wonderland at The Grove

Nov. 19th-Dec. 25th

Location: The Grove

Celebrate the holidays at one of LA’s famed shopping destinations-The Grove. The month long celebration features a 100-foot Christmas Tree, the Santa House, and additional live music and entertainment. Snow falls every evening up until December 25th at 7pm and 8pm. Click here for more info.

Santa Con

Santa-Con

December 8th

Location: TBA

As the event sates, Santa Con is one of the few chances adults get to truly take part in the wonder of Christmas. It likely doesn’t hurt that adult beverages are involved. Part-takers are encouraged to dress in their Jolly best for this free angeleno event. Click here for more info.

Brew HoHo

December 8th

Location: The Phoenix Club, Anaheim

With over 100 craft beers to chose from, its no wonder Brew HoHo stays a hit year after year. Many of the city’s best beer is brewed in Anaheim, making the venue of choice that much more ideal for the beer fanatic in you. Click here for more info.

Santa Monica Pub Crawl

Santa Monica Pub Crawl

December 8th

Location: Santa Monica

What better way to jumpstart the holidays than jingling all the way to SMPC’s 10th annual holiday event. Ok, maybe no jingling but certainly a fair amount of festive fun. With over 6,000 patrons having crawled until their hearts content last year, this years event is sure to be just as memorable. The fee to take part is $15 and proceeds from the Pub Crawl will go towards the Westside Food Bank to aid those in need during the holiday season. Click here for more info.

Festival of Carols

December 8th & 15th

Location: Disney Hall, DTLA

Whether you love a classic holiday song or just the joy of the season, the Festival of Carols is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. With over 100 classically trained carolers, this event is sure to warm the heart of even the most Grinch-iest of Grinches in your friend group. Click here for more info.

Snow Wonder

Marina Del Rey-Snow Wonder

Dec. 8th

Location: Burton Chase Park

Ring in the holidays at Marina Del Rey’s annual Holiday celebration-Snow Wonder. Enjoy art, crafts, music, food and even real snow as Burton Chase Park isn transformed into a Winter Wonderland. The event will also feature a fireworks display followed by the Marina’s Boat parade. Whether you chose to sled or sit in on the days fun, Snow Wonder is guaranteed to be a hit for the entire family. Click here for more info.

Stevie Wonder’s House Full of Toys

Stevie Wonder’s House Full of Toy’s benefit concert

December 9th

Location: Staples Center

Stevie Wonder’s House Full of Toys returns for its 22nd year at the Staples Center in Downtown L.A. The event is hosted by the musician himself along with other special guest in order to raise funds to provide toys for thousands of children in orphanages, hospitals, and shelters throughout LA. This year the show will also serve as a benefit concert for those affected by the recent California Wildfires. Concert-goers are encouraged to bring an unwrapped gift or toy. Click here for more  info.

Winter Wonderland End of Year Party

The Source OC- Winter Wonderland Year End Party

December 15th

Location: The Source, Buena Park

While there is still a couple weeks before you start planning your NYE celebrations, The Source’s Year-End party is the kickstarter. With a five-hour open bar, food samples, and a goodie bag valued at over $100 as well as top-notch DJ’s, you’ll leave having won the season! Click here for more info.

Newport Beach Boat Parade

December 19th-23rd

Location: Newport Beach

Celebrating its 110th annual year, the Newport Beach Boat Parade is a showcase of luxury.   From boats to yachts and even canoes donned in over $500,000 worth of Holiday decor, it is a spectacle worth viewing. Don’t miss out on on Bayside lit up in its festive splendor. Click here for more info.

LA County Holiday Celebration

LA County Holiday Celebration

December 24th

Location: Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, DTLA

Celebrate the many cultures of the Holidays and LA at the LA County’s 59th Annual Holiday Celebration. This free event is fun for all ages with over three-hours of multicultural music, dancing, and performances. Many diverse L.A. – based artists and community groups showcase their talent, artistry and traditions on The Music Center’s iconic Dorothy Chandler Pavilion stage. The event is put on by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and will also be streamed on pbssocal.org.  Click here for more info.

The Holidays at Universal Studios

Now-January 6th

Location: Universal Studios, Universal City, LA

Let your inner “Who” or “Wizard” run free at Universal Studios annual Holiday celebration. Enjoy a “Grinchmas” with all of your Whoville favorites and Dec.8, 9 and 14 – 30 as you partake in Who-liday celebrations. Solemnly swear that your up to no good? Well you wont need a Marauders map for the Wizarding World pf Harry Potter’s Christmas celebration. Venture over to Hogsmeade and enjoy festive decor, and dazzling lights music cast against the backdrop of the Hogwarts Student Choir and accompanying throaty frogs. Plus what better time to enjoy a hot cup of Butterbeer (in our case all the time but especially during the holidays)? Click here for more info.

“Holiday Time in Paleyland”

Holiday Time in PaleyLand

Nov. 24th-Jan 6th

Location: The Paley Center, Beverly Hills

Celebrate the joy of the season with a family-friendly line-up of classic holiday features. Playing from noon-5pm will be festive favorites like Dr. Suess’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas, A Rugrats Kwanzaa, and Frosty the Snowman. Santa will also be there for the fun on the weekend and select weekdays from 11am-5pm. Enjoy the screenings while taking part in fun games and complimentary hot cocoa! Click here for more info.

Queen Mary Christmas

Dancers perfrom around the main Christmas tree at the Queen Mary’s Chill Ice Adventure Park in Long Beach on Wednesday, December 13, 2017. (Photo by Scott Varley, Daily Breeze/SCNG)

Now-Jan. 6th

Location: The Queen Mary, Long Beach

Step aboard Long Beach’s Queen Mary for a Holiday Extravaganza. A mix of new and old traditions, the holiday spectacular features beautiful decks of lights, carolers and musical performances. Enjoy the outdoor skating rink or visit with Santa. Walk through the Gingerbread Village or lounge in Santa’s Captains Quarters. There is festive fun for all to be had! For more info click here.

Holiday in the Park

Holiday in The Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain

Dec. 15th-30th

Location: Six Flags Magic Mountain, Los Angeles

The “Thrill Capital of the World” brings you all the holiday joy this season with their festive celebration. With over two million lights strewn about the park from Merry Lane to Santa’s Cottage, you will be in a world of holiday splendor. Entertainment will include the Holiday Square Carolers and music by the Mistletones and Kwerkmas. Jingle all the way through the day and don’t miss out on this family fun! Click here for more info.

 

No matter your plans this season, we at Rodeo Realty wish everyone a Happy Holidays!

 

 

 

LA Eats of the Week

With as many restaurants as there are Bird scooters, we’ve decided to simplify your options of the week by dishing out the best places to grab a bite from power lunches to elegant fare. Read below for our nosh worthy eats throughout L.A.

“Breakfast is the most important deal of the day…”

Ms Chi Cafe

Ms. Chi Cafe
3829 Main St
Culver City, CA 90232
(424) 361-5225

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Top Chef contestant Shirley Chung has completed her LA move, after opening a smaller stall at The Fields and now this all-day contender in Culver City, serving breakfast through dinner (with a small break in the afternoon) serving reasonably priced, new school Chinese comfort fare. So far the results are pretty solid, making Ms. Chi one of the most compelling places to open in Downtown Culver City since Bacoshop.

Konbi

Konbi
1463 Sunset Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90026
(213) 278-0007

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Already clogging up Instagram with its delectable Japanese-style sandwiches, this coffee and daytime restaurant goes into a tiny slot in Echo Park from Akira Akuto and Nick Montgomery. Order the katsu sando, Japanese-style convenience store food, and see what happens when cooks use high-quality Duroc pork with plush milk bread. Prices are high considering the inspiration for these sandwiches, but the flavor is there to match.

Amara Cafe

Amara Cafe
55 S Raymond Ave
Pasadena, CA 91105
(626) 744-1765

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Amara Chocolate’s tiny interior is often mistaken for a Venezuelan cafe. And while the spicy cacao latte is worth it, so are the fluffy, yet crispy arepas. The kitchen stuffs these traditional Venezuelan pockets with shredded beef arepas with gouda, or fresh cheese, black beans, and ripe sweet plantains. Amara also has something unique to LA: cachapas, a Venezuelan crêpe made with fresh and roasted yellow corn.

“Lunch, Brunch, Second Breakfast!”…

Badmaash Fairfax

Badmaash Fairfax
418 N Fairfax Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(213) 281-5185

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This Downtown Indian restaurant has a new outlet in the heart of Fairfax District serving upscaled curry classics. Bring a crew and share the hyped (but delicious) chicken tikka poutine, spicy lamb vindaloo, and fresh naan.

Cosa Buona

Cosa Buona
2100 W Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90026
(213) 908-5211

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Echo Park’s Cosa Buona is an eastside staple for a casual menu that goes beyond pizza to include a collection of droolworthy sandwiches. They all stay true to the Italian-American ethos of the place, from those mozzarella sticks to chicken parm or meatball sandwiches to a collection of simple salads.

Sichuan Impression

Sichuan Impression
1900 W Valley Blvd
Alhambra, CA 91803
(626) 283-4622

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This second floor space looks unassuming from the street but inside there’s possibly the best Sichuan food outside of San Gabriel Valley and it’s deep in the Westside. Sure, there’s Din Tai Fung and Meizhou Dongpo at nearby Century City, but the real sichuan spice lovers will come to this Santa Monica Boulevard strip mall for one of LA’s top Chinese restaurants. Try the special noodles, cold chicken, and toothpick lamb.

“What’s for Dinner?”

 Alta

Alta Adams
5359 W Adams Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90016
(323) 571-4999

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Highly regarded San Francisco chef Daniel Patterson has brought his Alta restaurant to West Adams, installing Watts native Keith Corbin as the chef. The fare and vibe is spot-on for what the neighborhood needs, a well composed dining room that doesn’t feel fussy with some “California soul food” to match on the menu. Corbin takes comfortable classics like fried chicken, oxtails and rice, and collard greens and puts a bit of finesse on them. Don’t miss the excellent wine list either.

Jame Enoteca

Jame Enoteca
241 Main St
El Segundo, CA 90245
(310) 648-8554

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This casual pasta and salad restaurant in El Segundo is a smash hit with locals, taking over a corner slot in a strip mall and filled with carb-loving diners. Chef Jackson Kalb, formerly of Factory Kitchen and NYC’s Union Square Cafe, takes a casual every day Italian-American approach to pasta, with some maximum flavor going into the handmade noodles. It’s the most exciting place to open in this main drag of El Segundo since the next door Sausal debuted a few years back.

Kismet

Kismet
4648 Hollywood Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90027
(323) 409-0404

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Sara Kramer and Sarah Hymanson opened this sleek modern Middle Eastern restaurant in early 2017 with a commitment to refined, restrained technique and top-quality farmers market produce. The result is one of the most popular new restaurants in the city. The morning Turkish-ish breakfast is a solid daytime pick, while the mezzes and small plates rule the roost for dinner service.

Courtesy of Eater LA

Out and About: Abbot Kinney Edition

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

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

In the morning…

Gjelina

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

The Beach Life

Venice, CA

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

Go Surf LA

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

During your afternoon…

“Shopper’s paradise”

Abbot Kinney Shops

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

Warby Parker

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

Midday cravings

Salt Air

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

So much time for activities!…

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

Venice Canals

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

Beyond Baroque

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

As the sun sets…

Scopa

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

Plant Food and Wine

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

Salt & Straw

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

Your Holiday Travel Guide

The best part of the holidays other than quality family time is the time to get away. While we love the sites and scenes in the city of stars, sometimes it’s nice to spend the festive season abroad. With that in mind we have rounded together the top destinations to jet off to between Hanukkah and the New Year, so pack your bags for the great Winter escape!

 

Mexico’s Pacific Coast

While Puerto Vallarta is always a guaranteed great time south of the border, the beach town of Sayulita delivers its own level of style. Just 20 miles south from the major resort area, this is plentiful of vintage board shops and hammock strung guest homes. Feel like splurging? In between beach shack margaritas and local bites are NYC and Parisian designers tucked into brightly painted boutiques. Your winter getaway awaits!!

Tbilisi, Georgia

While this destination may seem an unlikely choice for a winter get-away, it is an ideal spot for those looking to find a different skiing scene. While places like Aspen and Switzerland never disappoint, the same can be said for Tbilisi. With its jumble of colorful balconies, Art Nouveau facades and picturesque flea markets, its the perfect combination of Eurasian wonder.

Botswana

It’s the place where HRH Prince Harry swept nor HRH Duchess Megan off her feet. It is also one of the most extraordinary safari experiences you can find in this region of the South African Nation. The Okavango delta is overflowing in wildlife found throughout the areas protected park and game reserve. With the area’s new found press, Wilderness Safaris was lucky to open it’s new luxury tented suites; Oorokwe Camp at the right time. With bleached timbers and private deck , these accommodations along the border of Moremi Game Reserve is fit for any Royal or visitor alike.

Nepal and Bhutan

As we promised, this is a list of destinations perfect to visit during the winter months, and the area of Nepal and Bhutan holds true to that promise. Stay at the famed Dwarika Hotel–an oasis of architectural charm and traditional luxury, one of many luxury hotel options in the area. Then take your exploring to new heights by enjoying a helicopter ride to the top of The Taktsang Monastery. There you will enjoy a picnic lunch above the clouds followed by a hike down to tour the Monastery. When do we leave?

India

While India almost speaks for itself as a travel choice, this year marks a historic opportunity to visit. This year the country celebrates  150 years since the birth of Gandhi. Also while there one can see the wonder of Nagaland and the Kaziranga National Park-home to asiatic rhinos and some of Asia’s last surviving former-headhunting tribes.

Tohoku, Japan

Japan has always served as a fascinating and unique destination full of culturally exquisite finds. With so many area’s to chose from to explore, why not venture off the beaten path? Tohoku, 90 minutes north-east of Tokyo offers incredible natural landscapes. Perfect for hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter, it is a year round escape. Wander through the village of Kakunodate, home to Samurai legends and artisan workshops, reminiscent of the Edo period.

Mackenzie Country, Otago, New Zealand

We all know New Zealand as the land of Hobbiton(or Lord of the Rings fans know this), but the island nation is more than fantasy in it splendor. With it’s glacial highlands and sunken valleys, visitors are recommended to enjoy the country’s Alp region for hiking, biking and luxury accommodations.

Nusa Penida, Indonesia

 

While Bali and the Gili Islands already serve as world renowned vacation spots, the island of Nusa Penida is just as breathtaking. Located just of the south east coast of Bali, Nusa Penida offers untouched landscapes. Amongst the beauty is a chance to soak in the natural wonder of the Giri Putri Cave or Angel’s Billabong. Stay at the Kabeh Jati Garden Villa for a perfect nights rest.

Panama

While 2019 will be a celebration off Panama City’s 500 year history, mid-December begins it’s season of the best time to travel to the region. While the country is small in size, it offers vast options of exploration. From it’s white sand beaches and  indigenous culture and it’s to tropical rainforest and misty highlands, your adventure awaits.

Palomino, Columbia

With it’s beautiful; Caribbean beaches and and stunning wildlife, Palomina is the ideal holiday escape. Enjoy surfing or floating via tub down the Palomino River and its natural beauty. With it’s amazing range of seafood and luxury stay options, this Columbian destination awaits your well deserved visit.