Your Game-day Cocktail Guide

While Budweiser is an obvious Superbowl beverage staple, that doesn’t mean you can shake things up for the non-beer drinkers out there. This weekend draw up a new game plan with the recipes we’ve rounded up below. We guarantee they’re delicious from beginning to end zone!

Red Snapper

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Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin 
  • 2 oz tomato juice
  • .75 oz lemon juice
  • 1 oz chilli sauce
  • .5 oz worcestershire sauce 
  • salt and pepper

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a large glass. Add ice and stir to chill. Garnish with a celery stalk, lemon wedge, salt and fresh cracked pepper.

Courtesy of Four Pillars Gin

What/ When 20

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Ingredients: 

  • 2 oz The Botanist Gin 
  • 0.5 oz blood orange puree
  • 0.5 oz lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup 
  • 3 oz prosecco

Instructions:
Combine ingredients in a shaker. Shake and strain into a champagne flute. Garnish with a lemon.

Courtesy of W New York- Times Square

OTT Irish Coffee

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Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz Knappogue Castle Irish Whiskey
  • .25 oz rich Demerara syrup
  • 5 oz hot coffee
  • A pinch of salt
  • 3 cardamom pods
  • 5-6 oz heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp white sugar
  • Zest from an orange
  • 2 dashes of orange bitters

Instructions:
Muddle the cardamom pods in the bottom of a pre-heated Irish coffee glass. Add whiskey, Demerara syrup, hot coffee, and salt and stir together. Combine the heavy cream, sugar, orange zest, and bitters and whip together until the mixture is thick, but still pourable. Float cream over the top of the drink by pouring gently over the back of a spoon. Add an additional garnish, if you like, of a lightly toasted marshmallow.

Created by Joaquín Simó at Pouring Ribbons

Bright Lights Big City

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Ingredients: 

  • .075 oz Old Overheat 
  • .075 oz Laird’s Apple Brandy
  • 0.5 oz Gifford Rhubarbe
  • 0.5 oz lemon juice
  • 0.25 oz falemum 
  • 0.25 demerara 
  • 1 tonic 
  • 4 dashes of mango bitters
  • 1 mint sprig (garnish)

Instructions: 
Shake ingredients and serve in collins glass with pebble ice. Top with tonic and mango bitters. Garnish with mint sprig.

Created by Kenneth McCoy, available at The Rum House.

The Wild Card

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Ingredients:

  • 3 drops vanilla bean extract 
  • Bar spoon of Maille Mustard
  • 2 oz. El Peloton mezcal
  • .5 oz lemon juice
  • .75 oz agave nectar
  • .75 oz egg white 
  • Peychaud’s Bitters swirl (for garnish) 
  • Star anise

Instructions:
Put ingredients into shaker in this order: vanilla bean extract, bar spoon of mustard, lemon juice, agave, mezcal. Dry shake. Open up shaker and add ice. Double strain into a martini glass. Add a couple dashes of peychaud bitters and place star anise on top. 

Courtesy of Marcio Ramos of The Honeywell

Third And Long

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Ingredients:

  • 1 oz The Bitter Truth Pink Gin
  • 1 oz The Bitter Truth Elderflower Liqueur
  • 1-2 dashes The Bitter Truth Cucumber Bitters

Instructions:
Pour gin, elderflower liqueur and cucumber bitters into a long drink glass filled with ice and stir. Fill up with tonic water and stir again. Garnish with lemon wheel, cucumber slice, and mint sprig.

Courtesy of Alexander Hauck and Stephan Berg at The Bitter Truth

Tommy’s Margarita

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Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Olmeca Altos Blanco tequila
  • .75 oz agave nectar
  • .75 oz lime juice

Instructions:
Combine ingredients in shaker. Shake and strain over ice into a rocks glass. Garnish with a lime wheel and black salt.

Courtesy of Sweet Liberty

The Trifecta Punch

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Ingredients:

  • 24 oz Aviation American Gin 
  • 64 oz Maison Marcel Sparkling Rosé Wine
  • 12 oz Aperol

Instructions:
In a pitcher, combine gin and Aperol. Stir. When ready to serve, add chilled sparkling rosé wine, and stir again gently. Garnish with fresh cranberries.

Courtesy of Meaghan Levy of theLounge at Rose Hill, HGU Hotel

Svedka ShandyGaff

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Ingredients:

  • 1.5 parts SVEDKA Colada Vodka
  • 3 parts Corona Light beer (ice cold) 
  • 2 parts lemonade (cold)
  • 1 lemon wedge

Instructions:
Pour SVEDKA Colada, lemonade, and the juice of 1 lemon wedge into a shaker. Add ice and shake briefly. Strain into a pint glass. Top with Corona Light. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

Courtesy of SvedkaADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW

The Dark and Stormy

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Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz Gosling’s Rum
  • 4-5 0z ginger beer
  • Gosling’s Black Seal Rum

Instructions:
In a highball glass filled with ice add ginger beer and top with Gosling’s Black Seal Rum. Garnish with a lime wheel and candied ginger boat.

Courtesy of Drew Sweeney, beverage director for FISHBOWL at Dream Midtown

Campari With A Kick(off)

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Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Campari
  • 1 oz Tequila Blanco
  • 1 oz pineapple juice
  • .5 oz lemon juice
  • .5 oz simple syrup

Instructions:
Shake ingredients with ice and pour into a tall tumbler glass. Garnish with a pineapple slice, pineapple leaf, and a wild berry.

Courtesy of Acqua, New York CityADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW

Blood, Sweat & Tears

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Ingredients:

  • 2 oz white rum
  • .5 oz lime juice
  • .75 passionate juice
  • Gosling’s Black Seal rum float

Instructions:
Combine ingredients in shaker. Serve over ice. Top with Gosling’s float and garnish with lime.

Courtesy of Heather McKinney atOphelia’s Electric SoapBox

Rusty Pale

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Ingredients

  • 5 parts local IPA beer 
  • 2 parts Coopers’ Craft Bourbon 
  • .25 part fresh lemon juice 
  • .25 demerara syrup 
  • Dash of Hellfire Habanero Shrub

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients and serve in a pint glass or beer mug. Garnish with lemon.

Courtesy of Michael Ring of Coopers’ Craft Bourbon

Game Day Cider Splash

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Ingredients:

  • 5 oz of beer
  • 3 oz of homemade citrus apple cider
  • 1 oz of Bacardi Black
  • Chopped apples, oranges and lime 

Instructions:
Mix beer, apple cider and Bacardi black in glass. Garnish with fruit.

–Courtesy Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach


OVERTIME

LA RAMS

THE FRONT SEVEN COCKTAIL

For football season, Liquor.com chose a bartender from each NFL team’s hometown to provide the perfect cocktail to represent their team.

“The D line and the linebackers are the strongest group in the Ram’s current lineup,” says John Coltharp, the head bartender at Los Angeles’ Seven Grand. “This stiff cocktail is a tribute to those seven players; it also features the earthy flavors the Rams want the opposing running back to experience when they shove his face into the ground.”

Ingredients:

  • 1 oz Slow Hand white whiskey
  • 1 oz Cynar
  • 1 oz Campari
  • 1 dash Orange bitters
  • 1 dash Peychaud’s bitters 

Garnish: Lemon peel 

Instructions:

Add all of the ingredients to a mixing glass with ice and stir until cold. Strain into a rocks glass over ice. Express the oil from a lemon peel over top of the drink and garnish with the peel on the ice, skin up.

vs.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

Flying Elvis

For the New England Patriots, “this cocktail is a little taste of humble pie, with the strength and resolve of some local navy-strength rum providing structure, a little taste of the unexpected from the Amaro di Angostura and egg white, just like the Pats playbook,” says bartender Vikram Hegde at Cambridge, Mass.’s Little Donkey. “Plus, there’s a little something festive and tropical in the Giffard Banane du Brésil liqueur (you know, because Gisele).”

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ oz Privateer Navy Yard rum
  • ½ oz Amaro di Angostura
  • ½ oz Giffard Banane du Brésil liqueur
  • ½ oz Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
  • 1 Egg white
  • Garnish: Angostura bitters

Instructions:

Add all of the ingredients to a shaker, and shake without ice until emulsified for about a slow 5 count. Add ice and shake vigorously for a slow 10 count or until the shaker frosts over. Fine-strain into a lowball glass without ice, and garnish with a few dots of Angostura bitters in the shape of the Patriots’ Flying Elvis logo (to the best of your artistic ability).

LA’s Best NYE 2019 celebrations!!

With the year finally coming to an end, the last great fete is always the most important. Don’t leave your New Year’s planning down to the last minute. Read our guide below of LA’s best celebrations to welcome in 2019!!

Prohibition NYE

Prohibition NYE

Party like Gatsby at Union Station’s NYE celebration! The roaring 20’s inspired soiree will take place in the transportation hubs historic ticket concourse. So don your best digs and enjoy a night of live music, entertainment and a premium open bar. You’ll be ringing in the new year as the 60 foot ball drops. Click here for more info!

NYE at the NoMad

NYE at The Nomad

What could be better then a NYE celebration that also serves as a good cause? The answer is nothing is better and the place is the NoMad in DTLA. Serving as the stunning hotels first NYE celebration, the entire lobby level will be transformed for the midnight rendezvous. Enjoy open bar, live music, and gourmet food stations from the Chef Daniel Humm run establishment. Ticket proceeds will go to benefit Chrysalis a non-profit that helps the homeless and low-income with job placement. Click here for more info.

Brew-All-Night at Bluebird Brasserie

Bluebird Brasserie

Wanting a NYE thats a bit more low-key? Maybe your not the fancy cocktail and champagne type. Well that’s ok because Belgian-style restaurant and Brewpub is offering a all-you-can-drink craft beer extravaganza. Enjoy a cold one along with passed appetizers, a photo booth, and a beer toast at midnight! Beer-lovers click here for more info.

“Aught Rock”-out at Honeycut

The Honeycut

Ring in the new year like it’s 2005! Honeycut in DTLA is known for their NYE Champagne Supernova bash but this year will be dishing out the greatest hits the 2000’s had to offer. With an open bar and free-flowing bubbly, you’ll “Fergie-liciously” dance the night all the way into the new year. Click here for more info.

Black & White Masquerade Ball at The Chapel at The Abbey

NYE at The Chapel at The Abbey

On any given night this WEHO hot-spot could make one assume every day is NYE. With that party-level in mind, the LA’s most iconic gay bar takes it up a notch with this years Black & White Masquerade Ball. What will not be typical of the event is the dress code, as formal attire is required. So find the most mysterious mask you can find(leftover from Halloween or otherwise) and sip on GH-Mumm while you dance until the morning hours. Click here for more info.

N.Y.E.L.A. in DTLA

N.Y.E.L.A.

Perhaps you wish to enjoy a dry New Year and for that your in luck! Make your way to N.Y.E.L.A. for this massive alcohol-free party in the park. The shindig is put on by Grand Park and the Music Center and features fun for all ages. Enjoy Food Trucks, photo booths, art, and multiple stages of live entertainment! Click here for more info.

Monday Night Fever at The Varnish

The Varnish-Cole’s Speakeasy

Enjoy the best era that vinyl can offer at this downtown speak-easy style bar behind Cole’s. Dj Max Maxey will be spinning all the Disco hits for you to boogie to. Guest can enjoy table service tickets that include cocktails, beer, wine and midnight champagne along with French Dip Sandwiches and other tasty snacks. Click here for more info.

Glow Party at Burton Chace Park

Glow Party-Burton Chace Park

Looking for family friendly on the Westside? Swoop up the family and head to Burton Chace Park’s Glow Party. The evening festivities will include music, face painting, food trucks, giveaways and more. Can’t make it until midnight with the little ones? No worries, as the event will feature two fireworks displays at 9pm and midnight. Click here for more info.

Revel at Redbird’s

Redbird NYE

This NYE Redbird’s in DTLA will open up its private rooms to the general(paying) public. As you celebrate the end of 2018 and the beginning of 2019 in the eateries East and West Rooms, Chef Neal Fraser will be dishing out an array of hors d’oeuvres. Sip on Moet Hennessy featured drinks and their tune spinning DJ until your complimentary midnight toast. If your need a more substantial meal, Redbirds will also be offering a multi-course menu to start off your evening. Click here for more info.

9021-Only in Beverly Hills

Polo Lounge-Beverly Hills Hotel

While each soiree in LA’s most posh zip code is deserving of their own feature, we’ll spare you the scrolling to narrow down which ones. Enjoy not one but two evening options at the Pink Palace as the Beverly Hills Hotel will offer their annual luxe countdown in the Polo Lounge and a reasonably priced option at Bar 1912. Or ring in the new year privately in your own cabana at the Peninsula! While the Belvedere and the Living Room will offer their own fine dining and fun, what could be better for two then a five course menu and your own private space atop this lush hotel rooftop? Other BH celebrations can be found here.

Culture yourself at Walt Disney’s Concert Hall

Pink Martini

Ring in 2019 to the smooth sounds of latin/jazz/french instrument ensemble Pink Martini. The musical act will be serenading at two times, 7pm and 10pm with special guest appearances. Your sound senses will thank you! Click here for more info.

Rooftop Renegades

Spire 73

The best part of living in LA is enjoying city views without the winter chill. While it is still coat weather, there are a number of rooftops citywide offering NYE celebrations without the sub-zero temps those east-coasters deal with. Hotel Shangri-La in Santa Monica will be hosting High-Rise fun at ONYX Rooftop Lounge or a little down the way in Venice, Hotel Erwin High Rooftop Lounge is quite the bash as well. Prefer the hills over the sea?

L.P. on La Cienega is hosting a masquerade ball on their Hollywood rooftop. For our Downtown destinations, Spire 73 sits upon the Intercontinental’s 73rd floor, serving as the Western Hemispheres tallest open-air bar.  Enjoy music, Moet, and bites from high above! Or keep it retro at the Ace Hotel’s Disco Ball Drop that is free for all get-down with cash bar and zero dollars charged at the door.

No matter how you chose to spend your NYE, we at Rodeo Realty wish everyone all the best in the year to come!

 

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

 

 

LA’s Best Outdoor Ice Skating

There is nothing that says the Holliday season is here more than a glide around your neighborhood rink. And while for those of us in LA a cool day on the ice is far and few between, the options this December are grand. So grab your winter wear and head to one of the Ice Rinks listed below for a jolly good time!!

LA KINGS HOLIDAY ICE – L.A. LIVE, WESTFIELD TOPANGA, THE PIKE OUTLETS (NOV 10, 2018 – JAN. 6, 2019)

LA Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. LIVE
LA Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. LIVE I Photo courtesy of L.A. LIVE

LA Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. LIVE I Photo courtesy of L.A. LIVE

The Los Angeles Kings are hosting their popular holiday outdoor attraction, LA Kings Holiday Iceat three locations: L.A. LIVE (Nov 10, 2018 – Jan. 6, 2019), Westfield Topanga in Woodland Hills (Nov. 17, 2018 – Jan. 6, 2019) and The Pike Outlets in Long Beach (Nov 16, 2018 – Jan. 6, 2019). The Kings and AEG opened the first Holiday Ice Rink at L.A. LIVE in 2009, and it’s since become an annual L.A. holiday tradition. This is the third consecutive year the Kings have hosted an outdoor ice rink in Woodland Hills and Long Beach, both in their same locations.

Dates of operation at each rink is subject to change. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the LA Kings Holiday Ice website.

HOLIDAY ICE RINK PERSHING SQUARE (NOV. 15, 2018 – JAN. 21, 2018)

Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square at night
Photo courtesy of Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square, Facebook

Now in its 21st year, Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square kicks off its 2018-19 season on Nov. 15 and runs daily through Jan. 21, 2019. Framed by skyscrapers and adorned with festive holiday lights, L.A.’s largest outdoor ice skating rink spans 7,200 square feet and welcomes more than 54,000 skaters and 450,000 spectators annually. General admission for each one-hour session is $14, including figure or hockey skate rental.

To purchase advance tickets and for more info, visit holidayicerinkdowntownla.com or call (213) 624-4289.

A portion of proceeds will benefit the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation & Parks. Go Metro to the Pershing Square Station and receive a $1 skating session discount.

ICE AT SANTA MONICA (NOV. 3, 2018 – JAN. 23, 2019)

Ice at Santa Monica
Ice at Santa Monica | Photo courtesy of Downtown Santa Monica, Facebook

Every holiday season, Downtown Santa Monica transforms the corner of 5th Street and Arizona Avenue into Ice at Santa Monica. The 8,000 square-foot ice skating rink brings a winter wonderland to the beachside community and has become a beloved annual tradition. Admission is $15 for all-day skating, including skate rental. The Randy Gardner School of Skating provides ice skating lessons with experienced professionals for skaters of all skill levels.

For more information, call the Ice team at 310.260.1199.

QUEEN MARY CHRISTMAS (NOV. 23, 2018 – JAN. 6, 2019)

Queen Mary Christmas
Queen Mary Christmas

Discover new traditions mingled with old-fashioned holiday cheer at the Queen Mary Christmas. Stroll the beautiful decks of the legendary ship and experience thousands of twinkling lights, carolers and musical performances, meet and greets with Santa, and more. Slip on a pair of skates and glide around the True North Ice Rink located atop the Sports Deck of the Queen Mary – 181 feet off the ground – with a 360-degree view of the Long Beach skyline and harbor. The glittering stars and historic smoke stacks will light your way!

WESTFIELD SANTA ANITA (NOV. 30 – DEC. 16, 2018)

Outdoor ice skating at Westfield Santa Anita
Photo courtesy of Westfield Santa Anita

Enjoy ice skating without the cold at Westfield Santa Anita! Embrace all things winter with Westfield’s free synthetic ice rink on The Promenade. Donations will be accepted and 100% will benefit the Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills. On Saturdays (Dec. 1, 8 & 15), Winter Nights at Westfield Santa Anita presents music, a hot cocoa station, and artificial snow on The Promenade. On December 8, enjoy a special performance from Lythgoe Family Panto featuring Princess Flinda and Elphaba. Winter Nights is free and open to the public!

THE RINK – DOWNTOWN BURBANK (DEC. 13, 2018 – JAN. 6, 2019)

Kristi Yamaguchi visits The Rink in Downtown Burbank
Olympic champion Kristi Yamaguchi visits The Rink | Photo courtesy of Downtown Burbank, Facebook

Downtown Burbank’s most festive holiday tradition is back for outdoor ice skating, fundraising events, and special performances. The Rink in Downtown Burbank will be open from Thursday, Dec. 13, 2018 through Sunday, Jan. 6, 2019. A great way to celebrate the holidays, The Rink in Downtown Burbank is just steps away from more than 400 shops and restaurants, and the recently renovated Burbank Town Center. Located next to Burbank City Hall at the corner of Third Street and Orange Grove Avenue in Downtown Burbank, hours of operation will be 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, extended to 11:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.

Courtesy of: Discover LA

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

 

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 meal of the day!”

Fiona

Fiona

Location: 339 N Fairfax Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90036

Nicole Rucker’s pies have been legendary ever since she won the Good Food pie contest in 2012, but you used to have to know the former Gjusta pastry chef to get one yourself. No more: At Fiona, the cute new bakery-restaurant from Rucker and a dream team that includes the guys from Cofax, she’s serving up chess pies, chocolate pies, lemon pies, and more in the bakery case, a for-now breakfast/brunch menu with interesting toasts and omelettes, and, coming in early December, some lunch and dinner options in collaboration with the chef from Simbal.*

Amazebowls

Amazebowls

Location: 300 S Santa Fe Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90013

As one of the best acai bowl shops in town, Amazebowls has grown from a truck to a brick and mortar in Downtown L.A. (as well as a window on the Venice Boardwalk), selling their popular bowls and smoothies from the Arts District. Try the classic Amazebowl made with acai, blueberries, pineapple, banana, agave and hemp milk; or the Instagram-friendly Coconut Acai Bowl served in a chilled coconut and topped with a slew of superfoods.

Rose Café-Restaurant

Rose Cafe Venice

Location:  220 Rose Ave, Venice, CA 90291

It’s a bakery and café and bar and restaurant with multiple seating areas and patios. Inside, the bakery case gleams, the bar bustles, live plants and orb lighting hang from the ceiling on tasseled ropes. In the main dining area — a giant, covered patio — you sit on molded green and white chairs and eat off of wooden tables flanked by walls of ivy under giant wicker light shades. It all feels effortless and beautiful and so very, very Venice.

“Brunch, Lunch, 2nd Breakfast!”

Chulita

Chulita

Location:  533 Rose Ave, Venice, CA 90291

Chulita is a modern Mexican restaurant from owner Shireen Imani, opens tomorrow evening in the former Superba Snack Bar space on Rose Avenue. The incoming eatery has Alex Silva and Vanessa Salas running the menu. Overall Chulita’s menu goes for a Mexico City-style botanas y mezcales, or drinking food with spirits, in a sunny Tulum-esque ambience.

Slab

Slab

Location: 8136 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048

Burt Bakman, is the pitmaster at Slab, the most exciting new BBQ opening in LA since Maple Block. Part of the h.Wood Groups bustling line-up of restaurants(The NIce Guy, Poppy, Delilah to name a few), Slab is a “smoke-show” of a hit. Expect staples like smoked chicken and spare ribs, as well as “The Trudy Special,” a brie and brisket sandwich that’s become a fast favorite.

Pedalers Fork

Pedalers Fork

Location: 23504 Calabasas Rd., Calabasas, CA 91302

Offering local organic bites in the heart of Calabasas, Pedalers Fork is a delightful one stop shop that also serves as a full bar, café, and bike boutique all-in-one. With brunch, lunch, and dinner, there are many menu options and seating times to choose from. Stop by midday day for the Rock Shrimp Ceviche tossed in cucumber, radish, grapefruit, chili and sesame. Or venture over for an evening reprieve like their Truffle Pizza or Watkins Ranch Grass Fed Petite Filet with pomme aligot, cabernet sauce, truffle butter, and crispy shallots. Yum!

“What’s for Dinner?”

Inn Ann

Inn Ann

Location: 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Japan House is a new venue at Hollywood & Highland dedicated to all things, well, Japanese; Inn Ann is its hidden restaurant (literally, the name means “hidden retreat”), serving up a rotating menu of omakase from chefs visiting from Japan itself. The opening menu is from Chef Taro Araki, and includes a Japanese omelette with truffle and miso-marinated cheese.

Simone

Simone

Location:  449 S Hewitt St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Located right in the heart of the Arts District, Simone’s a beautiful, brick-laden, fresh-ingredient-forward spot from James Beard Rising Star Jessica Largey, who — thanks to some industry mover-and-shaker partners — has already been serving up Hollywood royalty (we were at the opening party… and so was ScarJo. No big whoop). The menu’s got all the Cali-friendly goodness you’d expect: pork collar with baby bok choy and charred peanuts, ricotta gnudi with grated tomato, and a ton of veggie dishes for the non-meat eaters of the world.

Q Sushi

Q Sushi

Location: 30770 Russell Ranch Rd, Ste. A, Westlake Village, CA 91362

Q Sushi provides a delectable seasonally influenced Japanese menu in an upscale and unparalleled setting. The Chefs showcase the true artisan of Izakaya sushi using the highest quality selections. Their precise attention to each minute detail is reflected in the bold flavoring and harmonious appearance from the freshly prepared Sushi to the Robata items and Kobe beef. The menu offerings are further completed with Q Sushi’s wide array of fine sakes, craft beers and wines from Kieu Hoang Winery in Napa Valley.

 

Out and About: DTLA

Los Angeles is full of bold history and  unparalleled attractions. The home of Tinseltown. A pinnacle point of the Gilded Age. All synonymous with Downtown LA–a creative mix of the times, both new and old.

Take an Angels Flight on LA’s only Funicular. Hear masterpieces at Disney’s Concert Hall. Spend a day in DTLA and enjoy a true piece of quintessential California.

Keeping in mind the many areas of DTLA to explore, we will focus on the highlight reel of day to night activities.

At Dawn…

To nosh!

Start your morning off the Parisian way with a trip to DTLA’s beloved Bottega Louie.

Bottega Louie

Before Laduree was kind enough to make it’s long overdue west-coast appearance, Bottega was the only place one could get a luxury Macaron collection whilst enjoying a french style brasserie. While there are more than a few shops that offer that perfect Paris treat now, Bottega Louie will always hold a special place in our Angeleno hearts. Try the delectable Beignets served with Raspberry compote or the Tuscan Farro and Eggs tossed in Rainbow Carrots, Fresh Kale, and Mushrooms. Bon Appetit!

For Arts sake!

After you finish your trip down french cuisine lane, your not too far to have your pick of art on display at The Broad or MOCA.

The Broad

While both museums offer their own range of Modern Contemporary Art, each will provide you a unique experience and proper dose of culture.

Needing a literary fix? The Los Angeles Central Library boasts stunning architecture and rare books.

Los Angeles Central Library

Satisfy your inner book worm then head over to the Grammy Museum for a different collection of art with one of a kind pieces to gander at from musics biggest legends.

The Grammy Museum

Structural Wonders

For those who have an admiration for the great architecture of LA, the Los Angeles Conservancy Walking Tours is here to assist. As they guide you through and by DTLA’s iconic facades, you’ll have your choice of style. Choose between tours of modern skyscrapers or the Historic Core, Art Deco icons or Victorian mansions. A true display of LA’s most beautiful building.

On the chance you opt out of the walking tour, you should at least add the Bradbury Building and Spring Arcade Building to your list of sites to see.

The Bradbury Building

The two are unlike one another as the Bradbury is DTLA’s oldest commercial building established in 1893. While much of the space is utilized for private office use,  movie buffs may recognize its iconic iron staircases from the climax of Bladerunner.

After this historical stop, save sometime to venture to the next one, if not only to at least pick up a mid morning reprieve. The Spring Arcade building still brims with the beauty of its 1924 structure.

Spring Arcade Building

Enter the terra cotta archway as you walk through a glass-roofed alleyway of dining options.  Stop by the Green Grotto Juice Bar and pick up a tasty beverage to go before your afternoon begins!

Upon Noon…

“Barefoot in the Park”

By this point your thinking, “I’ve done enough walking today”. Well venture over to Grand Park, not for the cardio but to take in the bright urban oasis.

Grand Park

Refurbished in 2012, the park has 12 acres of sprawling space to lounge and people watch other than the performances and gatherings it plays host to throughout the year.

If your starving Grand Central Market is the only ideal destination to appease your midday cravings.

Grand Central Market

A downtown landmark since 1917, the food hall boasts over 30 different vendors ranging in international cuisine.

Once you’ve chosen and chased away those hunger pains, Angels Flight-the worlds shortest railway is mere steps away.

Angels Flight

Thanks to the success of the Hollywood hit film Lalaland in which it was featured and enough community demand, the once stalled hillside attraction was reopened in 2017.

Shopping Essentials

We are sure by now your wondering when you will get to splurge a little. Figat7th is the next destination which offers all of your favorite fashion finds like Zara and Mac(for unique pieces the Art District does not disappoint).

Figat7th

After you’ve picked up the items you’ll quote as “necessary” brace yourself for unparalleled views at our next stop.

New Heights

Que Skyspace, locate din the US Bank building is a high-rise experience to be had for all.

Que Skyspace

Glide your way down on the 45ft glass Skyslide suspended 1000 feet in the air  to their observation deck for unobstructed views of the city of stars. A site seeing experience like no other.

The old establishment

The oldest section of the city, El Pueblo and Olvera Street were established in 1781 as a farming community.

El Pueblo and Olvera Street

Brimming with authentic Spanish style, the area boast 11 historical structures and a range of independent street vendors.

Once you’ve explored enough here make your last afternoon stop Union Station(pun intended).

Union Station

The last of the great American rail stations is just as handsome as the day it opened, with its mission style exterior and grand art deco interior touches.

When Night falls…

“Live a little!”

As the evening sets in there are a few options to keep your DTLA outing going well into the night. Stop by LA Live to catch a game at the Staples Center or experience the only 4D entertainment in LA at Regal Cinemas.

L.A. Live

Seeking a bit more of a stage based experience? Both the Music Center and Disney Concert Hall boost world-renowned performing arts engagements.

Set the stage

At the Music Center much of the shows put on are courtesy of the Centre Theatre Group.

Music Center-Ahmanson Theatre

At the north end, the Ahmanson Theatre presents pre- or post-Broadway fare, while the smaller Mark Taper Forum stages a wide range of new plays. Also part of the Music Center, the grand Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is the home base for LA Opera, as well as occasional concerts and dance events.

The Disney Concert Hall is not only a marvel of modern architecture but home to LA’s award-winning Philharmonic.

Disney Concert Hall

Hosting a plethora of concerts and shows throughout the year, it is an experience not to be missed.

“Paint the town red”

If you want a bit more high-flying views along with your evening feast, 71 Above is literal in its name of providing you just that.

71 Above

Set 950 feet from the ground level, 71 Above offers elevated modern American Cuisine with elevated views.

If you didn’t make it to the Arts District for your shopping spree, it is worthy of ending your night there. Providing some of the most unique restaurants and bars in the city of Los Angeles, the Arts District is a culinary and cultural haven.

If you know anything LA’s iconic dining scene, you’ll Bestia falls right to the top of the list. We recommend the the Spaghetti Rustichella—a small pyramid of noodles under Dungeness crab.

Bestia

Italian not quite your flavor? No fret! For savory steak frites try Church & State  a marvel of french cuisine. After dinner finish your night Everson Royce Bar-a hidden neighborhood gem.

Everson Royce Bar