Tag: food

Posted on

Best Sports Bars to Watch Super Bowl LX | L.A. Eats

This weekend, the New England Patriots will take on the Seattle Seahawks for Super Bowl LX. When it comes to catching the Super Bowl, good food, cold drinks, and big screens are mandatory. Likewise, nothing beats cheering with a crowd at one of the best sports bars in Los Angeles. From neighborhood dives to lively game‑day destinations, here are spots where the atmosphere is as good as the play.

Brewz Sports Cafe & Grill

Location: 7921 Canoga Ave, Canoga Park, CA 91304

A perfect choice for families and fans alike, Brewz offers plenty of televisions and a relaxed vibe. Unlike many sports bars, this one focuses on beer and food (no liquor), so it’s a great place for all ages to enjoy the game together. Classic bar fare like burgers, hot dogs, and quesadillas pairs well with a competitive Sunday crowd.

The Garage

Location: 3387 Motor Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90034

With more than 30 TVs throughout the interior and patio, The Garage is one of the best sports bars in Los Angeles for never missing a moment of the action. Fans can snag rotating beers on tap while diving into game staples like nachos, potato skins, and sliders. The casual atmosphere makes it ideal for huge matchups like Super Bowl LX.

Founders Ale House

Location: 8771 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035

Founders Ale House pairs craft beer and plenty of screens for every big game. With crowd‑pleasing eats like fried chicken, burgers, and nachos — plus vegan options — this bar is a versatile pick whether you’re rooting for the AFC or NFC. The lively crowd and comfy setup make it one of the most fun places to watch Sunday football.

Barney’s Beanery

Location: 8447 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

A longtime favorite among sports fans, Barney’s Beanery has TVs galore and plenty of neon to set the game‑day vibe. Multiple locations around L.A. make this local institution a reliable spot to catch Super Bowl LX with friends. Expect a raucous, energetic crowd here when the big game comes on.

Busby’s West

Location: 3110 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404

Busby’s combines classic bar food with lots of viewing angles and a lively crowd. With pool tables and additional bar games tucked away, it’s easy to stay entertained before, during, and after kickoff. Wings, burgers, and nachos are crowd favorites here, keeping this among the best sports bars in Los Angeles.

Tom’s Watch Bar – L.A. Live

Location: 1011 South Figueroa Street, CA 90015

Located right in the heart of downtown, Tom’s Watch Bar is built for big games. Massive screens cover every wall, ensuring perfect viewing no matter where you sit. The menu leans toward gastropub classics like mac and cheese, wings, and burgers; i.e., the ideal Super Bowl LX fare.

Torrance Tavern

Location: 22735 Hawthorne Boulevard, Torrance, CA 90505

This South Bay favorite features a shaded patio and plenty of space for big groups. Game day here is marked by cold beers and hearty plates like buffalo chicken mac and cheese or chile verde nachos. Torrance Tavern’s relaxed vibe and solid food list make it a great choice for Super Bowl LX festivities.

Pijja Palace

Location: 2711 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026

A recent addition to the scene, Pijja Palace blends Indian, Italian, and classic American flavors with plenty of TVs for sports fans. Grab chutney‑slathered pizzas or malai rigatoni while you watch the game, and make sure to reserve a seat; it’s a popular destination on big‑game days. This creative concept earns its place among the best sports bars in Los Angeles.

The Woodman

Location: 13615 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

The Woodman is a Valley favorite for good reason. With cozy booths, an impressive beer list, and a menu stacked with hearty pub fare (hello, bacon burger), it’s a sports bar that hits all the right notes. There’s a great view of the game from almost any seat, and nearby spots like Petit Trois make it easy to turn your visit into a full-day outing.

Whether you’re after craft beer, massive screens, classic wings, or family‑friendly vibes, Los Angeles has a sports bar where you can soak up the Super Bowl LX excitement. Pick any of these top spots and settle in — the game day energy in L.A. is unbeatable.

Posted on

Elegant Local Fine Dining | L.A. Eats

Indulge in Los Angeles’ elevated dining scene, where world-renowned chefs and timeless culinary institutions come together to create unforgettable experiences. From elegant tasting menus to beautifully designed spaces, the city’s fine dining destinations offer the perfect excuse for a luxurious night out in LA.

Linden

Location: 5936 W Sunset Blvd (at Tamarind Ave), Los Angeles, CA 90028

Linden brings a distinctly New York sensibility to Hollywood fine dining. Chef Jonathan Harris weaves together Caribbean, Italian, and Jewish influences inspired by his upbringing on the East Coast. Signature dishes like the wagyu pie, filled with tender oxtail and savory gravy, offer an elevated take on classic New York comfort food. The prawns and polenta arrive layered in a bold arrabbiata cream sauce. Cocktails such as the Lemon Ting and L.I.R.R. further nod to the restaurant’s NYC roots. Still, the atmosphere feels unmistakably Los Angeles, with cascading greenery, a fashionable crowd, and a lively energy that often carries diners next door for a late-night chopped cheese to close out the evening.

Antico Nuovo

Location: 4653 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004

Hidden within a modest strip mall near Larchmont, chef Chad Colby’s Antico Nuovo has quietly become one of Los Angeles’ standout destinations for rustic Italian dining. The menu leans heavily into seasonal California ingredients, showcasing beautifully crafted housemade pastas, expertly grilled meats, and a beloved “pane” section featuring thick-cut focaccia topped with everything from whipped ricotta and pistachio pesto to marinated anchovies. Inside, the softly lit dining room creates an intimate, almost transportive atmosphere that keeps diners lingering over bottles from the thoughtfully curated wine list before ending the night with a scoop of the restaurant’s housemade ice cream.

San Laurel

Location: 100 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Set atop the 10th floor of Conrad Los Angeles, José Andrés’ San Laurel offers a refined interpretation of Spanish cuisine within a stunning, airy dining room overlooking Downtown LA. Drawing inspiration from Andrés’ acclaimed work at The Bazaar, the menu balances sophistication with approachability through dishes like gambas al ajillo, hiramasa crudo finished with buttermilk leche de tigre, and charred asparagus paired with smoky romesco. Dessert takes a more playful turn, with inventive finales such as dehydrated chocolate mousse served alongside cool mint ice cream, adding an unexpected touch to the elegant experience.

Kato Restaurant

Location: 777 S Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

What began as an intimate Taiwanese tasting menu tucked inside a West LA strip mall has grown into one of Downtown Los Angeles’ premier fine dining destinations. At Kato, chef Jon Yao delivers a deeply personal and elevated take on Taiwanese cuisine through a carefully crafted menu that balances precision with warmth. Signature dishes like Dungeness crab topped with caviar and Chinese celery or smoky grilled freshwater eel served over seaweed fried rice highlight the kitchen’s layered, detail-driven approach. While the restaurant has evolved far beyond its humble beginnings, the expanded menu, polished hospitality, inventive cocktails, and thoughtfully curated wine program have firmly established Kato as one of the city’s most compelling culinary experiences.

Baroo

Location: 905 East 2nd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012

After stepping away from Los Angeles’ dining scene for several years, chef Kwang Uh has reintroduced Baroo in the Arts District as an ambitious tasting menu experience centered around fermentation, seasonality, and modern Korean cuisine. The reimagined restaurant pairs its inventive menu with natural wines, thoughtful cocktails, and traditional Korean sul, creating a dining experience that feels both refined and quietly experimental. While Buddhist philosophy subtly shapes the progression of the meal, the approach never feels overly conceptual, instead allowing the ingredients and craftsmanship to speak for themselves. Dishes like battered skate wing wrapped in lettuce with seabuckthorn or pork collar paired with rich goulash jjigae showcase the restaurant’s balance of creativity and restraint. With its polished return, Baroo has firmly reclaimed its place among the most exciting restaurants driving Los Angeles’ contemporary Korean dining scene.

Damian

Location: 2132 E 7th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90021

In the heart of the Arts District, Damian brings chef Enrique Olvera’s signature approach to modern Mexican cuisine into a space that feels effortlessly polished yet relaxed. The restaurant’s design mixes exposed industrial details with soft lighting and lush natural accents, setting the tone for an intimate evening out. The menu highlights refined, flavor-driven dishes like tender duck carnitas and the widely praised Caesar tostada, each plated with understated elegance. To begin, the herb-forward guacamole paired with crisp tostadas offers a fresh and vibrant introduction to a dining experience rooted in tradition while embracing a distinctly contemporary point of view.

Orla Santa Monica

Location: 1700 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, California 90401

Now located inside the Regent Santa Monica Beach hotel, Orla marks chef Michael Mina’s elegant return to Los Angeles with a restaurant inspired by the flavors of his Egyptian and Greek heritage. The menu reimagines familiar comfort dishes through a fine dining lens, featuring plates like crisp falafel layered with bigeye tuna, pillowy gnudi served alongside lamb meatballs, and an abundant mixed kebab platter with filet mignon, lamb kofta, and chicken dolmas. While the original Las Vegas location leaned heavily into glamour, the Santa Monica outpost embraces a lighter coastal atmosphere. Designed by AvroKO, the restaurant pairs warm interiors and supple leather banquettes with sweeping ocean views that give the entire space a relaxed sophistication.

Mélisse Restaurant

Location: 1104 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90401

At this intimate two-Michelin-starred destination, chef Josiah Citrin and chef de cuisine Ken Takayama deliver a meticulously crafted tasting menu experience that feels both refined and deeply personal. With only 14 seats surrounding the kitchen, guests are guided through an elegant eight-course progression over the course of nearly three hours. The menu showcases beautifully detailed dishes, from delicate seaweed tartlets layered with smoked salmon and roe to richly marbled A5 wagyu paired with morels and pickled ramps. At $399 per person, the experience offers a rare level of precision, luxury, and exclusivity, with reservations available through OpenTable.

Seline

Location: 3110 Main St Ste 132 (Marine St), Santa Monica, CA 90405

With Seline, chef Dave Beran expands on the thoughtful storytelling and precision that made Dialogue one of LA’s most celebrated tasting menu experiences. Opened in Santa Monica in late 2024 and named after his daughter, Harvest Moon, the restaurant pairs a dark, atmospheric dining room with striking artwork and a nearly open kitchen that places the culinary process fully on display. The seasonal menu unfolds like a carefully paced narrative, with ingredients often reappearing throughout the meal in unexpected ways; during winter, squash became a recurring thread woven across multiple courses. Wine and non-alcoholic pairings are curated with equal care, while the attentive service feels seamless and instinctive from start to finish. The result is an experience that feels intimate, immersive, and distinctly memorable long after the final course arrives.

Mori Nozomi

Location: 11500 West Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90064

At her intimate namesake sushi counter, chef Nozomi Mori delivers an omakase experience rooted in precision, seasonality, and quiet elegance. Drawing inspiration from the rituals of the Japanese tea ceremony, Mori approaches each course with extraordinary attention to detail. Everything delights, from the delicate balance of seasoned rice to the pristine seafood flown in from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market. Seasonal ingredients such as hairy crab and richly marbled bluefin tuna are showcased with subtle restraint. The experience is thoughtfully guided by Mori and her all-female team. The experience ends on a graceful note with freshly prepared matcha and handcrafted wagashi. At $250 per guest, Mori Nozomi offers one of the city’s most refined fine dining sushi experiences.

N/Naka

Location: 3455 Overland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90034

At this celebrated LA destination, chefs Niki Nakayama and Carole Iida-Nakayama present a modern kaiseki experience. The fine dining restaurant honors Japanese tradition while embracing contemporary creativity. It’s worth noting that the 13-course tasting menu changes with the seasons. Likewise, what unfolds gradually through a series of beautifully composed dishes highlights balance, texture, and restraint. Over the course of three thoughtfully paced hours, the meal feels luxurious without becoming excessive. Following a recent redesign, the dining room now reflects the same quiet sophistication. An intimate atmosphere that allows the experience to feel both polished and deeply personal awaits you at N/Naka.

Marea

Location: 430 North Camden Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

The Beverly Hills outpost of New York’s favorite Marea brings the restaurant’s polished take on coastal Italian dining to LA. Inside, guests settle into softly curved wood banquettes beneath a warm, elegant glow. Guests are invited to work through a menu centered on refined seafood and handmade pastas. Starters like oysters on the half-shell and delicate gougères topped with caviar delight the senses. We also recommend the bruschetta layered with roe to set an indulgent tone for the evening. Entrées range from ricotta-filled ravioli to an impressive 40-ounce tomahawk steak. The latter is, of course, designed for sharing. End the evening with desserts such as lemon ricotta bomboloni or velvety tiramisu for a decadent finish to the meal.

Somni

Location: 1045 Nemo Street, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Following years of anticipation, chef Aitor Zabala has reintroduced Somni as an intimate and highly refined tasting menu experience. Of course, the result is unlike anything else in Los Angeles. The Michelin-starred restaurant guides guests through more than 20 meticulously composed courses that blur the line between cuisine and art. Savor delicate creations such as a wispy Parmesan feather topped with dashi meringue and Astrea caviar. Or indulge in steamed Spanish turbot finished with a single perilla leaf, showcasing the kitchen’s extraordinary precision and restraint. Somni delivers one of the city’s most immersive and visually stunning dining experiences.

Somerville

Location: 4437 West Slauson Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90043

Tucked into View Park–Windsor Hills, Somerville has quickly become one of Los Angeles’ most coveted dining reservations. The fine dining establishment offers an experience that feels equal parts restaurant, lounge, and cultural tribute. The restaurant is inspired by the legacy of LA’s historic Black community along Central Avenue. Elegant features in the Art Deco-influenced space include rich mahogany interiors and a grand piano positioned beside an intimate stage for live performances. The menu matches the atmosphere with indulgent, comfort-driven dishes like fried chicken and caviar sliders alongside buttery Parker House rolls. A Golden Age cocktail made with Sir Davis Rye rounds out an evening designed to feel stylish and distinctly LA.

Providence

Location: 5955 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038

Nearly two decades after opening, Providence continues to set the standard for fine dining in Los Angeles. Chef Michael Cimarusti and partner Donato Poto have built a reputation around an elegant seafood-focused tasting menu. Likewise, the results are flavors that highlight impeccably sourced ingredients and meticulous technique across eight carefully composed courses. Each dish arrives with thoughtful detail and polished presentation, showcasing the kitchen’s precision without ever feeling overly formal. For a select few diners, the evening may even include a rare pour from Cimarusti’s personal whiskey collection. Of course, the opportunity adds yet another layer of warmth to an already elevated experience. Sophisticated yet deeply inviting, Providence remains one of the city’s defining culinary institutions.

Posted on

Spending the Day in Silver Lake | Out & About

Tucked into the hills of East L.A., Silver Lake charms with its artsy spirit, tree-lined streets, and sweeping cityscapes. Whether you’re in the mood for vintage finds, hip eateries, or just a laid-back stroll, this neighborhood offers the perfect mix for a memorable day out.

Kicking off The Day in Silver Lake

Kick off your morning with a visit to the Silver Lake Reservoir, a local favorite for getting outside and soaking up the scenery. This scenic loop draws joggers, dog walkers, and cyclists alike, thanks to its peaceful vibe and picturesque views of both the hills and skyline. Whether you’re up for a brisk walk or a casual ride, it’s the perfect place to ease into the day.

Buzzy Bites in Silver Lake

Once you’ve explored the neighborhood, treat yourself to a bite at one of Silver Lake’s buzziest new eateries. Bar Siesta brings a lively, relaxed energy with its playful spin on classic tapas, while Pijja Palace flips the script on traditional sports bars with its bold Indian-American mashups and cult-favorite pizzas. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a full-on feast, these local gems promise flavor and fun in equal measure.

Shopping in Silver Lake

In need of a shopping fix? Silver Lake is an ideal destination for vintage finds and unique apparel. From bespoke boutiques to neighborhood staples, the area is brimming with shops to stop at. Peruse vintage pieces at Starday Vintage or make a day of it at Silverlake Flea.

Golden Hour in Silver Lake Hits Different

Later in the day, lace up your sneakers and make your way to the iconic Griffith Observatory. The hike up rewards you with sweeping views of Los Angeles, including a postcard-perfect glimpse of the Hollywood sign. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits on space and science, plus a planetarium that brings the cosmos to life.

As Night Falls in Silver Lake

When evening rolls in, unwind with a cocktail at one of Silver Lake’s effortlessly cool bars. Bar Stella remains a local favorite for its moody charm and elevated drinks, while the Jaguar Room offers a sultry, jungle-chic vibe that’s perfect for a cozy nightcap.

With its mix of indie boutiques, crave-worthy food spots, and scenic trails, Silver Lake packs a whole lot of character into one neighborhood. Whether you’re exploring by day or vibing by night, there’s always something inspiring to discover in this creative L.A. enclave.

Posted on

LA Eats: Your Guide to Restaurant Month

Los Angeles Restaurant Month is an event hosted semi-annually, with over 400 participating restaurants showcasing prix-fixe dining menus to foodies and self-proclaimed food lovers, for a lower than expected dining rate. We cover places in Los Angeles, the Westside, and the Valley. Enjoy one of these premier dining destinations from our guide below, or all of them! 

Valley

Sherman Oaks 

Mistral

When: January 17 – January 31
Where: 13422 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks 91423
Dinner Menu: $35

Having opened our doors in 1988, Mistral has consistently been recognized as among the San Fernando Valley’s best restaurants. Set within an elegant French bistro, guests are welcomed by seasoned and experienced staff members all charged with the sole purpose to provide you and your guests with an unparalleled dining experience.

Calabasas

SUGARFISH by Sushi Nozawa

When: January 17 – January 31
Where: 4799 Commons Way, Calabasas 91302
Lunch Menu: $20 
Dinner Menu: $39

SUGARFISH was created Kazunori and Tom Nozawa and the four other founding partners of the Sushi Nozawa Group. The legendary chef Kazunori Nozawa only served traditional-style sushi (i.e. no California rolls or spicy tuna rolls). His menu was only omakase (“leave it to the chef”).

Agoura Hills

Cafe Bizou

When: January 17 – January 31
Where: 30315 Canwood Street, Agoura Hills 91301
Dinner Menu: $29

At Café Bizou, they pride themselves in providing top quality service and delicious food in a family-friendly restaurant. Café Bizou Restaurant is the perfect setting for Business Meetings and Events, Family Reunions, Birthday celebrations or Rehearsal dinners.

Burbank

Castaway

When: January 17 – January 31
Where: 1250 E. Harvard Rd., Burbank 91501
Dinner Menu: $59

Cape Grim Steaks. Pasture Bird. Mishima Wagyu. These are some of our culinary stars. Castaway will offer seasonally-inspired cuisine with a steak-forward focus including interesting cuts from the world’s best butchers and dry-aged in our in-house aging room with a Himalayan salt wall.

Calabasas

Saddle Peak Lodge

When: January 17 – January 31
Where: 419 Cold Canyon Rd., Calabasas 91302
Dinner Menu: $59

Part roadhouse, Pony Express stop, hunting lodge, European auberge, perhaps even a hint of a bordello, Saddle Peak Lodge has been many things to many people in its long history. For 100 years—some say even more—Saddle Peak Lodge has been a place of enchantment, romance and great dining for generations of those who seek a unique experience.

Westside

Santa Monica 

Water Grill

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica 90401
Lunch: $35
Dinner: $59

For over 30 years, Water Grill has sated the palates of fish lovers. From the moment it opened, this flagship downtown restaurant from King’s Seafood Company has satisfied the need for a world-class fish eatery in Los Angeles.

Playa Del Rey 

Bacari PDR

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 6805 Vista Del Mar Lane, Playa del Rey 90293
Lunch: $20
Dinner: $29

Bacari PDR is a cozy little wine bar in an oddly shaped building on the main strip of sunny Playa del Ray that serves Italian Cicchetti (similar to tapas). You will find small but filling options like a stacked shrimp, mushroom, and juice-soaked bread tower, tender glazed pork belly, cheesy mushroom pizza, a thick burger covered in molten cheese, and hot clams.

Venice

Barrique

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 796 Main Street, Venice 90291
Dinner: $59

Michelin-awarded chef Antonio Muré brings eclectic Italian cuisine to life in Barrique’s cozy, romantic atmosphere with a Venice-style wine bar and rooftop terrace. Born in Porto-palo di Capo Passero, Sicily, and growing up in Parma, Emilia Romagna, Muré graduated from the prestigious Instituto Alberghiero di stato and spent his formative years cooking in some of Italy’s most celebrated restaurants. His unique approach to Italian cooking includes a variety of seasonal Italian creations like thinly sliced pan seared Buffalo with mustard grain dressing and Portobello mushroom salad and signature dishes like home-made red beet Tagliolini pasta in a Marsala quail ragú served on a bed of Taleggio cheese fondue.

Westwood

Audrey at The Hammer

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90024
Dinner: $49

Located within the Hammer Museum in Westwood, Audrey blends elevated and soulful cooking with a contemporary Southern California feel.

Los Angeles

Beverly Hills

a.o.c

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 8700 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles 90048
Lunch: $25 
Dinner: $59

After opening critically acclaimed Lucques in 1998, the duo of 3 time James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Restaurateur of the Year 2018 Caroline Styne embarked on A.O.C., the area’s pioneering wine bar that first paired an indulgent list of wine by the glass with a menu of market-driven small plates.

 

Hollywood

APL Restaurant

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 1680 Vine St., Los Angeles 90028
Lunch: $20 
Dinner: $99

This restaurant is a BBQ restaurant by day & a Steakhouse by night. The restaurant is situated on the ground floor of L.A.’s first-ever high-rise, the historic Taft Building, and is a one of a kind dining experience.

Downtown

Faith & Flower

When: January 17 – 31
Where: 705 W. 9th St., Los Angeles 90015
Lunch: $35 Dinner: $49
Inspired by a global influence of flavors and techniques, complemented by the use of a wood-fired oven and pristine raw bar, this menu redefines Californian rustic cuisine.
Posted on

LA Eats: Ring in the New Year at These Restaurants

Looking to ring in the new year with great food and entertainment? From a celebratory meal in Downtown Los Angeles to a Southeast Asian inspired meal in Santa Monica to a time traveling meal in Glendale… look not further, we have got you covered!

Abernethy’s at The Music Center

220 N Hope Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Located at The Music Center Plaza, Abernethy’s invites Angelenos to ring in the New Year with a celebratory meal featuring Chef Jason Fullilove’s Modern Soul Food. Fullilove’s five-course prix fixe menu highlights dishes that evoke feelings of warmth and comfort, including Shrimp Bisque, Parsnip Soup, Crab Toast, Grilled Little Gem Salad, Curry Fried Cauliflower, Roast Free-Range Chicken, BBQ Bone-in Short Rib, Shrimp ‘n Grits, and Squash Agnolotti. Pricing is $79 per person. Reservations available on OpenTable from 5pm to 10:30pm. A limited a la carte menu will be available at the bar for walk-ins and those seeking a more casual experience.

AKASHA

9543 Culver Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90230

On New Year’s Eve, AKASHA in Culver City rings in 2020 with a la carte specials, including Roasted Oysters, Iceberg Wedge Salad, Parker House Rolls, Bone-in-Ribeye for Two with Salsa Verde or Mustard Cream Sauce; and John Dory with Melted Leeks and Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette. Sides include Loaded Pommes Purée with Cheddar Cheese, Bacon and Chives; or a Mushroom Sauté of King Trumpets, Beech and Cremini. Complete your NYE dinner with a dessert of Olive Oil Cake with Schaner Farms Lemon Curd and Tangerines. All holiday specials are served in addition to AKASHA’s daily market-fresh menus.

APL Restaurant

1680 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Adam Perry Lang first built a following in Hollywood by serving “Serious Barbecue” on Jimmy Kimmel’s backlot. He switched from smoked meats to house-aged steak and opened a restaurant down Hollywood Boulevard in 2018. On New Year’s Eve, APL is offering three prix fixe menus and an a la carte Small Bites Menu. The Three-Course Menu features Burrata, Wet-Aged Ribeye (Dry-Aged available for $20), family-style sides (Broccolini, Pomme Purée), and Chocolate & Cognac for dessert. Pricing is $75 per person. The Five-Course Menu ($125) adds Beef Tartare to start and Seared Scallops with crab bisque and butternut squash. Priced at $175, the decadent Seven-Course Menu starts with Oysters & Champagne and adds Meyer Lemon Sorbet to the feast.

Bourbon Steak Los Angeles – “Odes to Epicurean Eras”

237 South Brand Boulevard, Glendale, CA 91210

Located at The Americana at Brand in Glendale, Michael Mina’s modern steakhouse is serving a special “Odes to Epicurean Eras” prix fixe menu with dishes spanning the 19th and 20th centuries. Starters include shrimp cocktail (1960), Bibb Lettuce Waldorf (1893), Little Gem Caesar Salad (1924), truffle artichoke veloute (1820), Oysters Rockefeller (1889), and the supplemental Michael Mina’s Caviar Parfait ($70, 1990). Main course selections feature Surf & Turf (1950), Wagyu Flat Iron Steak Diane (1950), aged duck breast & duck leg confit (1960), Colorado rack of lamb (1930), red snapper bouillabaisse (1980), Salmon en Papillote (1840), and two supplements: 20 oz prime bone-in ribeye ($16, 1822) and 2.5 pound Lobster Thermidor ($28, 1896). For dessert, choose from chocolate cream pie (1897), lemon sorbet (1670) or go all the way back to 776 B.C. for cheesecake. Pricing is $105 per person, with optional wine pairing available for an additional $65.

Cassia

1314 7th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Taking its roots from Bryant and Kim Ng’s culinary heritage and experiences, Cassia celebrates the fresh, vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia. Cassia is serving a family-style New Year’s Eve prix fixe menu for $95 per person. Alongside Cassia signatures like Chickpea Curry and Whole Grilled Sea Bass, new dishes include Caviar with salted egg yolk crackers, seaweed crème fraîche & red onions; Smoked Beef Short Ribs with spicy Chinese BBQ sauce, Bibb lettuce & herbs; Spicy Duck Dry Sesame Noodles with scallions and more. Sommelier Marianna Caldwell is offering a $20 beer flight featuring Bryant’s favorites; $45 wine pairings and sparkling sake to pair with caviar. There’s also a limited a la carte menu on the covered and heated patio for walk-ins and those seeking a more casual experience.

Posted on

LA Eats: Staple LA Restaurants That Are Decked Out for the Holidays

The best thing about the holiday season in Los Angeles is that “Holidays in Los Angeles” can mean just about anything. Surfing in the ocean to snowboarding in the mountains, Southern California is the place to be during the holidays. Because of that, we are finding that there are timeless dining institutions that  go full out on holiday decorations every year without fail. Through them we find respite in a magical land of tinsel, garland and boughs of holly, if only for a couple weeks!

The Smoke House – 4420 W Lakeside Dr, Burbank CA 91505

It should come as no surprise that Burbank’s premiere retro steakhouse, a favorite haunt for Old Hollywood, goes pretty hard on holiday decorations (including a pair or illuminated nutcrackers that stand guard near the front door). Eat some comfort food, enjoy a Manhattan, and bask in the holiday glory.

El Coyote – 7312 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90036

Another storied local institution known for keeping its Holiday lights up all year round, El Coyote takes things one step further by draping its dark comfy booths with plastic poinsettias and installing a tree and a cute holiday displays in the foyer. Be sure to ask for your burrito “Holiday-style,” smothered in both red and green salsa.

The Galley – 2442 Main St, Santa Monica CA 90405

It might not seem fair to include Santa Monica’s oldest restaurant on this list, if only because the strands upon strands of multicolored Christmas lights lining its tiki-pirate ship dining room are left up all year long. However, you should probably visit the beachside favorite in December anyway, at least to sip a Mai Tai with the cheery regulars. Maybe you’ll even cajole Captain Ron into telling a couple jokes.

Barone’s Famous Italian – 13726 Oxnard St, Valley Glen CA 91401

The crispy-crust, rectangular Sicilian pies served at Barone’s are tasty, but the real reason to come to this Valley Glen pizzeria is the sweet 1940s décor. It’s like an Italian grandmother’s postwar dining room frozen in amber, complete with red carpeting and carved wood trim. As you might imagine, it looks even more amazing after the Holiday decorations go up. Plus, there is spumoni for dessert.

HMS Bounty – 3357 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90010

Rumor has it that Richard Nixon and Winston Churchill were among the famous faces known for knocking back a drink or two at Koreatown’s famed 69-year-old nautical- themed dive bar. All we know is that the holiday decorations are cheery and bright, the bar snacks are solid and you always count on the Wise Man’s Special to provide a Start of Bethlehem-worthy glow.

Taix – 1911 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90026

The sparkly holiday decorations are up at Echo Park’s long-running French restaurant, including some elf dolls that look like they might come alive when your back is turned. Taix’s classic French onion soup is always a good bet, but look out for the annual dessert special, Buche de Noel, which should appear on the menu the next couple of weeks.

**Content sourced from LA Magazine.

Posted on

LA Eats: Where to Brunch With Your Family In Town

Your family is in town for the holidays.  There are so many places to show them in our city, and even more places to take them to eat. We’ve got you covered as far as LA’s most quintessential brunch places they need to try.

Kismet

The flaky bread that Sara Kramer and Sarah Hymanson serve at Kismet along with a soft-boiled egg and labneh is very good day or night, but somehow especially fantastic for brunch. Add a scone with lemon cream and maybe some cinnamon babka toast and one is likely all set.

Salt’s Cure

Thoughtfully sourced, California-grown ingredients form the foundation of Chris Phelp’s cooking at Salt’s Cure. Brunch is especially fantastic with things like biscuits and gravy, as well as oatmeal griddle cakes, on the menu.

Sqirl

Sqirl may very well be LA’s quintessential brunch. Come early, order the brioche toast with four different jams and the sorrel pesto rice bowl, and leave with a full understanding of the hype surrounding the place. Seriously. Come early. The line gets LONG, but it is SO worth it.

Republique

Get your hands on their Margarita Manzke’s crazy delicious pastries and fill up with brunch favorites like brioche French toast and kimchi fried rice.

The Rose Venice

Venice denizens arrive at The Rose in droves on weekend mornings for Jason Neroni’s pitch-perfect cooking. Particularly good is the wide range of pastries that pair nicely with the restaurant’s exceptional coffee. Many individuals with short layovers at LAX are known to take a cab to The Rose for brunch, and risk missing their connecting flight for this food. Yep. That good.

Sweet Butter Kitchen

Sweet Butter is an airy, brunch-y rustic cafe spot that has some delicious vegan options (highly recommend the Vegan PB cookie). It’s a rarity in the Valley and worth a visit if you happen to be over the hill from LA proper. You order at a counter and then pick a seat in the sun-lit central patio, which isn’t overly spacious, but isn’t crowded either.

Little Dom’s

Your favorite pasta haven is also a secret breakfast destination. There is never a wait. Pop in for Italian-leaning specialities like ricotta cheese pancakes with fresh blueberries, scrambled egg bruschetta, breakfast pizza, and breakfast meatballs with poached eggs.

Blu Jam

Crunchy French Toast. That’s all. Blu Jam keeps opening new locations (they even just opened a Tokyo location), but that hasn’t seemed to ease the crowds. Prepare to settle in for a bit of a wait for a table at the no-reservations cafés, but have faith that your patience will ultimately be rewarded.

Go Get Em Tiger

Most folks make their way to Go Get ‘Em Tiger for the coffee, which remains among the best in town. But if you’re planning to sit for a spell and enjoy your drink, maybe you should have something to eat too, right? To sate you, they have one of the best breakfast sandwiches in LA. The attention to detail that goes into every single plate out of their kitchen is clear. I mean, look at these eggs on that flaky biscuit.

Jon & Vinny’s

Do you like pizza? Do you like breakfast? Well, Jon and Vinny have a little something just for you, and it’s called breakfast pizza. And while, ok, they may not have invented the idea, they have pretty much perfected it — and then gone and created five different versions. Don’t forget to order a bombolone doughnut to go along. Also, their pancakes. Yep. They did it again.

Poppy + Rose

Poppy & Rose brings some Southern and soul food touches to dishes like pulled pork hash, rib-tip breakfast burritos, and their signature, buttermilk fried chicken and waffles with smoked honey butter.

Homestate

Don’t need to fly all the way to Austin to find breakfast tacos! Homestate is your spot in the Los Angeles area! Truly. Just as good. Flour Tortillas are a must. Queso too.

Malibu Farm

Another classic. Enjoy a farm to table brunch with your family with the amazing views of Malibu. Get their early to get parking and avoid the wait. There are two locations on the SAME pier. Same menu. Winning!

Posted on

Out & About: Santa Monica Edition

Originally established as a seaside retreat at the turn of the 20th century, today Santa Monica attracts families and renters to its beachside lifestyle, proximity to Los Angeles (just 15 miles), and overall high quality of life. Santa Monica has many things to offer from the famous Santa Monica Pier to the Santa Monica Farmers Market. There is surely a wealth of things to do for the whole family!

Snag a picture at the Route 66: End of the Trail sign

That’s right, the iconic Route 66 that runs all the way from Chicago to LA officially ends in Santa Monica.  As one of the first U.S. highways, covering a total of 2,448 miles (3,940 km), Route 66 served as the primary highway for those who migrated from east to west over the last century. This landmark sign overlooking the Pacific Ocean at the Santa Monica Pier symbolizes the official stopping point of historic westward travelers.

Check out the Santa Monica Farmers Markets

Taking place every Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM, the market is located on Arizona Avenue between Second and Third Street; on Sunday, it’s at 2640 Main Street. Not only do these markets have organic produce you can take home and cook, but you can also find stands selling food you can eat right there on the spot! Established in 1981, the market aims to keep modest goals of providing reasonably priced, high quality produce to the city’s community.

Grab a drink at Chez Jay – The World’s Most Glamorous Dive Bar
1657 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401

For nearly half a century this tiny bar has been a showcase for the adventurer Jay Fiondella’s treasure hunts, hot air balloons, and historic artifacts from legendary shipwrecks! Fiondella started and operated Chez Jay in 1959 and has been a sanctuary for celebrities coming to hang out through the years, from the likes of the Rat Pack to even the Jonas Brothers. If you’re looking for that “come as you are” experience with history, Chez Jay is the place for you.

Get a picture of the mosaic-covered – Farnam House

The Farnam House has been featured in national newspapers and television shows, and even won a TLC contest for the most interesting house in California! Louise and Aziz Farnam have spent 13 years applying various tiles, plates, and glass to their 1930’s bungalow in Santa Monica. This is one local gem that is absolutely worth saying you witnessed!

Have lunch at Santa Monica’s oldest restaurant – The Galley

Decorated with set pieces from the Mutiny on the Bounty and under the glow of multicolored Christmas lights, the booths are cozy and romantic. Offering delicious seafood and steak, ask about the now off-menu, “Favorite Land Food” they will still make it for you! A neighborhood staple since 1934, The Galley has been a long-time favorite for Santa Monica locals and visitors.

Posted on

Weekend Events: November 8-November 10

From the Los Angeles Coffee Festival to a Food & Wine experience (presented by USA Today) to The Thanksgiving Play at the Geffen Playhouse Los Angeles, this weekend’s events have got you covered for all things fall. Embrace the changing of seasons, grab a friend, cozy up, and enjoy your weekend!

Friday November 8th, 2019

The Los Angeles Coffee Festival
Time: 11:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Location: Magic Box at the Reef – 1933 Broadway, Los Angeles 90007

The Los Angeles Coffee festival will be returning this fall from November 8th-10th at Downtown LA’s Magic Box at The Reef. The weekend long event will feature not only stellar coffee but also delicious local food, cocktails, live music film and art. This is an event not to be missed regardless if you’re a coffee aficionado or a beginner. The three day festival will include a wide variety of coffee vendors and other exciting brands including Bluestone Lane, Black & White Coffee Roasters, Minor Figures, Califia Farms, Rishi Tea, Truth Coffee and Roasting and so many more! What’s more? This festival will also debut the Coffee Masters USA competition, where 16 baristas will showcase their skills head-to-head across a broad range of disciplines.

COCO at the Hollywood Bowl
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Hollywood Bowl

To celebrate Dias de los Muertos, the Beloved Oscar- winning Disney and Pixar Film is Reimagined at the Legendary Hollywood Bowl. Amazing love-to-film concert experience will feature live orchestra and digital projection on the shell of the historic venue.

Los Angeles Philharmonic
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Walt Disney Concert Hall

The incomparable Yuja Wang plays John Adams’ newest piano concerto, and Gustavo presides over Stravinsky’s pulse-pounding vision of pre-historic Russian rituals. Programs, artists, dates, prices, and availability subject change.

 

 

Saturday November 9th, 2019

Martha Stewart’s Wine & Food Experience presented by “USA TODAY”
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Los Angeles Center Studios – 1201 W 5th St, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Tickets: HERE

The USA Today Wine & Food Experience presents rich and colorful moments for guests to taste, savor, and explore the Los Angeles culinary scene, from local trends to regional traditions. Enjoy the Grand Tasting: a gourmet showcase by local chefs, emerging talent and nationally renowned culinary leaders who mix with patrons in a convivial setting. Lively cooking demonstrations, chef meet and greets, and seminars deliver unforgettable experiences for fans, connoisseurs, partners, purveyors, and industry personalities. Indulge in the VIP experience for an hour early admittance into the experience, plus a chance to mix and mingle with chefs.

Opening Night of Moonlight Forest Lantern Art Festival
Time: 5:30PM, 7:00PM & 8:00PM
Location: Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden – 301 N Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia, CA 91007

The 2019 festival will be more spectacular than ever with dazzling new lanterns and interactive experiences. Step into the jaws of a humongous shark or dive under the sea with fantastic fish in Ocean Visions. Experience a winter wonderland in our new Polar Dreams display. Children will find bright circular swings and other interactive delights in Children’s World. Visit with your family, friends, and holiday guests for a highly memorable evening.

Created by skilled artisans from China’s Sichuan province, the Arboretum has partnered with Tianyu Arts & Culture Inc. to celebrate the time-honored tradition of lantern art.

**The festival will run through January 12th, 2020.

Dessert Goals Festival Weekend 1
Time: 12:00PM – 6:30PM
Location: Evolve Project LA – 1921 Blake Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90039

Because dessert is always a good idea, Dessert Goals is back in LA for our Tie Dye Tiki edition presented by Chase Sapphire®! Get your tie-dye and tropical prints ready and head to Evolve Project in Echo Park on November 9 & 10 + 16 & 17 for all of the desserts!

Vendors Include:

  • Afters Ice Cream
  • Colorado Donuts
  • Sweet n’ Hollow
  • The Pie Hole
  • Stuffed Cookies
  • Pop’t By Lily
  • The Dirty Cookie
  • Pacific Organic Pops
  • Amborella Organics
  • Fancy Flavors
  • Lee’Poof
  • Jessie’s Nutty Cups
  • Churro Service
  • ChilOSO Gummy Bears
  • Pops Artisinal Creamery
  • Small Cakes OC
  • Bearology
  • Cookie Dough Dreams
  • Drunken Cake Pops
  • TeaArias
  • Famous Apples
  • Ubatuba Acai

Sunday November 10, 2019

Griffith Park Harvest Festival
Time: 11:00AM to 7:00PM
Location: 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027

The Griffith Park Harvest Festival offers family fun, with a day of Kidzone activities, music, pie-eating contest, games, and a screening of “Coco” under the stars.

Food trucks offer food for purchase. The beer garden offering local craft brews is curated by the L.A. County Brewers Guild.

The Festival is held below the merry-go-round. All proceeds benefit L.A. City parks.

Exhibition – Antarctic Dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles
Time: 9:30AM
Location: Natural History Museum of LA – 900 Exposition Boulevard Los Angeles CA 90007

Trace the footsteps of the explorers who made this dangerous journey a century ago, and join scientists from our Museum and Chicago’s Field Museum as they dig for fossils today! Then step through a portal into Antarctica’s past and discover a lush continent full of trees, giant amphibians, and dinosaurs—including the 25-foot-long, “cold-crested killer,” Cryolophosaurus. Meet 4 new species of dinosaur, all discovered within the last 30 years.

The Thanksgiving Play at Geffen Playhouse
Time: 2:00PM
Location: Geffen Playhouse Theater – 10886 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles CA

How does one celebrate Thanksgiving and Native American Heritage Month at the same time? In Larissa FastHorse’s biting satire, this is the question facing three “woke” white thespians tasked with devising an elementary school pageant about the first Thanksgiving while avoiding any culturally appropriative missteps. A roast of the politics of entertainment and well-meaning political correctness alike, The Thanksgiving Play puts the American origin story itself in the comedy-crosshairs.

Posted on

Out and About: Brentwood Edition

Those most familiar with LA will know that there are few areas as affluent as Brentwood with it’s quaint shops and lush greenery, it’s no wonder it ranks as one of L.A.’s most idyllic neighborhoods. Amongst the perfectly tailored lawns and architectural masterpieces is a day full of art, culture, sites, and bites.

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

In the morning hours…

Mornings are best spent starting off with a perfect caffe au lait, in Brentwood there is no shortage of options. Stop by Caffe Luxxe and get your morning pick-me up within the historic Brentwood Country Mart.

Caffe Luxxe

The eatery picks and roasts their own coffee giving new meaning to hand-crafted. Select from freshly baked delights courtesy of Red Rooster Bakery and be on your way.

After your AM charge, explore some of Brentwood’s architectural masterpieces for a light dose of dream home FOMO.

For afternoon reprieve…

George Sturges House

Between the Hunt, Sturges, and Nesbitt house, you’ll have quite the day exploring these post-war artfully designed properties.  A Paul R. Williams design, the Hunt Residence was built in 1921 with elements of the Regency Revival style. The George Sturges house, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and built in 1939 features Wrights Usonian style.

The Getty Center

After geeking out on home design of the retro times, venture off to see a different style of art at the Getty Center. A wonder on the scale of both culture, art, and design, the 24-acre Richard Meier designed campus boasts panoramic city views and renowned collections. Once you reach your afternoon craving stop point then have a seat in their lush garden for a midday picnic. The Getty Center boast exceptional dining options and a plethora of seating choices.

Farmshop

If one prefers to head back into town for their afternoon meal, the Farmshop is the perfect destination. Founded by Chef Jeff Cerciello, the eatery is a staple of the Brentwood Country Mart. With imaginative recipes and locally sourced ingredients, its the best afternoon pick me-up.

Your evening adventure…

Skirball Cultural Center

Once, day turns to night, a show at the Skirball Cultural Center is almost a given. Just north of the Getty, the center explores heritage, culture and ideals through permanent collections, rotating exhibits, film screenings and live performances.

Tavern

Finally, we recommend for your evening conclusion to dine as locals do, at Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne’s acclaimed Tavern. The destination restaurant features a tastefully prepared seasonal menu with a who’s who of patrons.

Proudly powered by WordPress