LA Eats of the Week

It’s a new year and a new you so why not try something new when it comes to dining. Don’t opt for your usual lunch spot when LA is always dishing out something fresh. Whether it is AM, MIDDAY, or PM, we have you covered with a list of savory options.

Rise and Shine!

Daughters Deli

Daughters Deli- LA Eats of the Week

Location: West Hollywood

Continuing off of the legacy her parents started at the famed Langer’s Deli, is Daughter’s Deli-the hip new WEHO sandwich shop. Abit more refined than her family’s famed eatery, Daughters deli offers breakfast sandwiches along with deli classics.

Click her fore more information

Souffles

Souffle- LA Eats of the Week

Location: Koreatown

Hearing the name Souffle one might think of just the dessert found at your nearest fine dining eateries. Well Souffle in Koreatown offers that and more with their varying flavors of pancake style sweets. The perfect treat for anytime of day can be found here!

Click here for more information.

Fiona

Fiona-LA Eats of the Week

Location: Los Angeles

Longtime LA baker and pastry queen Nicole Rucker opens this daytime bakery and cafe on Fairfax serving crafted breads, pastries, and toasts with a helping hand from former Simbal chef Shawn Pham. Dishes get an LA-style infusion of Asian flavors like miso chicken soup and Japanese sesame butter toast with service from morning until 8 p.m. Starting this month, Fiona will take hours to 10 p.m. with a larger savory menu to serve the neighborhood.

Click here for more information.

Midday Cravings

Pikunico

Pikunico-LA Eats of the Week

Location: DTLA

A sister restaurant of the famed Hinoki and the Bird in Century City, Pikunico is Top Chef alum Kuniko Yagi’s newest establishment. This venture is a bit more of a casual karaage restaurant at DTLA’s The Row competing in LA’s fried chicken war. See for yourself as a lunch time reprieve.

Click here for more information.

Jolie

Jolie- LA Eats of the Week

Location: Bel Air

New to the hills of Bel Air is this French Riviera inspired eatery offering a fresh array of lunch and dinner options. Jolie’s French-Mediterranean menu is the work of chef Cody Dickey, who was previously running the show at Carbon Beach Club in Malibu, and was also in the kitchen at Gato in New York City. Let your tastebuds travel to the Cote D’Azur.

Click here for more information.

Washoku

Washoku- LA Eats of the Week

Location: Studio City

Katsu-ya brings affordable omakase to the valley with Washoku, a traditional sushi spot not far from the original location. Have your pick of classic sushi dishes or opt for the all-star multi course option at a wallet worthy $28. Arrive early if this omakase selection fancies you as only six orders are available per day.

Click here for more information.

What’s for Dinner?

Blackship

Blackship- LA Eats of the Week

Location: West Hollywood

Italian is fused with Japanese at Weho’s new favorite date spot. Blackship is helmed by another Hinoki and the Bird alum, chef Keiichi Kurobe and dazzles with fascinating dishes. Opt between the hamachi bolognese or carbonara ramen with chashu as you sit beneath a dazzling outdoor patio space.

Click here for more information.

Los Balcones

Los Balcones- LA Eats of the Week

Location: Studio City

The long-standing Peruvian favorite of Hollywood has expanded to the Valley. Los Balcones takes over the former location of Girasol on Moorpark with hot take son classic dishes. Try the Chuleta Adobo porketta with smoked tomato pepian corn and pickle escabeche. Or savor over the Locro Pappardelle with roasted pumpkin ragu, goat cheese, zapallo hummas, and pepitas.

Click here for more information.

Atrium

Atrium-LA Eats of the Week

Location: Los Feliz

Los Feliz, with its limited retail space, doesn’t often get big new restaurants. With Beau Laughlin and Jay Milliken working on this restaurant for what seemed like years, Atrium is finally opened behind Skylight books with a wide, crowd-friendly menu of innovative Californian fare from chef Hunter Pritchett. The soaring space feels modern and fresh while the warm service help push out everything from passionfruit hamachi crudo to a robust dry-aged steak au poivre with Sichuan peppercorns.

Click here for more information.

Out and About: Hollywood Edition

This edition of Out and About is really a no brainer. What would the city of L.A. be without it’s star-studded history and sites? And while there are the obvious tourist options, there are also quite a few hidden gems. So spend a day the L.A. way out in Hollywood!

To start your day…

Runyon Canyon

While it may seem cliche, hiking Runyon Canyon is truly one of the better ways to start your morning whether it be a Hollywood outing or a weekly routine. The trail is pet friendly and offers stunning views of the city as well as a fun workout.

Lake Hollywood Park

If thats not enough fresh air, we recommend venturing to Lake Hollywood Park for a slight stroll as you gaze up at the Hollywood Sign.

Jane Q Cafe

Once you’re finished there, if you haven’t grabbed a morning bite, Jane Q is the ideal pitstop for a dose of AM energy. Tucked in the Kimpton Everly Hotel, the restaurant offers a chic cafe feel with gourmet dining options.

By the afternoon “bell”…

TCL Chinese Theatre

If your inner tourist is up for the crowd a stroll down the Walk of Fame is always an enjoyable outing if not just for the characters along the way. From famed handprints at the TCL Theatre to a bounty of hop on hop off tours, you’ll have no shortage of options.

Hollywood and Highland Center-Hollywood

If you feel like splurging, Hollywood and Highland Center is just down the street with choices that are wallet friendly. For more unique digs, Scout offers a plethora of vintage finds.

Paramount Studios Tour

After you’ve had you fill on the boulevard, why not take part in a tour of one of Hollywoods most famed studios?

Paramount Studios is the only studio still actually residing in Hollywood and it’s tour provides you a captivating glimpse of the silver screen both old and new. Whether you partake in the adventure is on your own accord, but surely afterwards you’ll need an afternoon reprieve.

APL Hole in the Wall

APL Hole in the Wall is the perfect place to refuel before the rest of your day continues. Offering gourmet take-away dishes like the Serious Sandwich- pit-cooked shaved prime New York strip with pickle salad, sweet onions, and freshly grated horseradish. Delicious!

Before the evening sets…

Ai Weiwei Exhibit at Jeffrey Deitch Gallery-Hollywood

A visit to the Jeffrey Deitch Gallery should be next on your list for a necessary dose of arts and culture. Peruse the selection of fine art but leave room for a different style of entertainment. Depending on your general mood, dinner and a show is always the perfect evening with family, friends, or that significant other.

UNBREAKABLE KIMMY SCHMIDT — FYC @ UCB Event at Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre Sunset, Los Angeles

For those with a funny bone, Upright Citizens Brigade will provide the laughs you so seek having famed comedians grace their stage both past and present. But for a more quintessential Hollywood experience, enjoy a showing at the theatre where most of the city’s blockbusters are premiered.

El Capitan Theatre

El Capitan has rolled out it’s red carpet for a bounty of feature films and still serves as a taste of Old Hollywood glamour. While their show offerings are limited, the time spent there is well worth it.

Aladdin the Musical at The Pantages Theatre

For something more lively, The Pantages offers a season full of broadway hits, with past shows like Aladdin and current productions of Wicked.

Curtis Stone and his team at his famed Hollywood restaurant Gwen.

With your inner tourist pleased and likely tired, our last recommendation is for a night that ends enjoying the culinary wonder of Curtis Stones’ Gwen. The restaurant is one of the famed chefs notable ventures into luxury dining and it does not disappointment. Known for their selection of gourmet meat, it is both a taste experience as it is an evening highlight.

No matter how you chose to spend your day Out and About, we hope you enjoy each moment in the city of stars!!

Your New Years Eats of the Week

For this savory edition we’re rounding up the best places in the city of LA to dine 2018 away and brunch 2019 in! So if your more excited about five course menus versus full open bars then this is the list for you. But scroll and secure quickly, because NYE is a mere week away and reservations are filling up fast!!

Dine the Night Away!

Simone

DTLA

Nine-course Chef’s Table preview is $195/pp.

Majordomo

DTLA

Five-course Chef’s Tasting menu is $95/pp.

The Belevdere

Beverly Hills

1st Seating is $165/pp.

2nd Seating-Five course menu is $195/pp.

Fogo De Chao

Beverly Hills

The Fogo Churrasco Experience is $63.95/pp.

Hinoki & The Bird

Century City

Hinoki & the Bird

1st Seating-Four Course menu is $95/pp.

2nd Seating-Five Course menu is $115/pp.

Rosaline

West Hollywood

1st Seating-Three Course menu is $95/pp.

2nd Seating-Three Course menu is $105/pp.

The Henry

West Hollywood

Four Course Pre-Fixe menu is $75/pp with a la carte options available.

Gwen

Hollywood

1st Seating-Three Course menu is $85/pp.

2nd Seating-Four Course menu is $165/pp.

3rd Seating-Four Course menu and Champagne Toast is $195/pp.

Cassia

Santa Monica

Three Course Family Style menu is $135/pp with Vegetarian Options available.

Openaire

Santa Monica

1st Seating-Three Course menu is $68/pp.

2nd Seating-Five Course menu is $135/pp.

Felix

Venice

Four Course menu is $225/pp.

Five Course menu is $295/pp.

Vespertine

Culver City

Chefs Tasting menu is $350/pp.

Baltaire

Brentwood

Five Course menu is $250/pp.

Tavern

Brentwood

1st Seating-Four Course menu is $95/pp.

2nd Seating-Four Course menu is $125/pp with a Champagne Toast and Party Favors.

Providence

Los Angeles

Seven Course menu is $250/pp without wine paring, $350 with wine pairing, and $445/pp with premium wine pairing.

A.O.C.

Los Angeles

Four Course menu is $140/pp with $50 supplement for wine pairing.

Mirabelle

Valley Village

Three Course menu is $35/pp.

Bourbon Steak

Glendale

Bourbon Steak

Three Course menu is $105/pp with $60 supplement for wine pairing.

The Raymond

Pasadena

The buffet style menu is $175.00/pp and includes tray passed appetizers, buffet stations (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm), all-inclusive beverages (specialty cocktails, wine, beer and Champagne toast at Midnight).

Saddle Peak Lodge

Calabasas

1st Seating-Four Course menu is $95/pp.

2nd Seating-Four Course menu is $150/pp and includes Champagne Toast and Live music.

Rise and Shine to A New Year!

Animal

Los Angeles

Animal will be offering their regular brunch menu a la carte.

Casita del Campo

Silverlake

Your choice of entree for $17.95 with choice of Mimosa, Bloody Mary, or Margarita included.

Freedmans

Silverlake

Freedman’s will offer their regular brunch menu a la carte.

Castaway

Burbank

Castaway will offer their regular brunch menu a la carte.

Culina

Beverly Hills

Culina New Years Day speciality brunch menu is $55/pp.

Polo Lounge

Beverly Hills

Polo Lounge will offer their regular Sunday Jazz brunch menu for $95/pp.

Jon & Vinny’s

West Hollywood

Jon & Vinny’s will offer their regular Breakfast and Lunch menu a la carte.

Viale dei Romani

West Hollywood

Viale dei Romani will offer a courtyard buffet with a carving station, eggs, smoked fish, and more for $75/pp and optional $12/pp bottomless mimosas.

Kismet

Hollywood

Kismet will offer their regular menu a la carte.

Esters Wine Shop & Bar

Santa Monica

Esters Wine shop will offer a “Boozy New Years Day-Brunch” with a la carte options.

Huckleberry Bakery & Cafe

Santa Monica

Huckleberry Bakery & Cafe will offer the regular menu a la carte.

The Exchange

DTLA

The Exchange will offer their regular brunch menu a la carte.

The NoMad

DTLA

The NoMad will offer a prix-fixe New Year’s Day brunch for $50/pp.

 

 

 

 

Out and About: West Hollywood Edition

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

From AM:

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

Runyon Canyon

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

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

BBCM Cafe

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

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

LACMA

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

Peterson Automotive Museum

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

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

La Brea Tar Pits

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

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

To Afternoon: 

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

Vivienne Westwood

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

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

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

Gracias Madre

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

Cecconis

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

Villa D’Este- West Hollywood

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

To PM:

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

Tower Bar- Sunset Tower Hotel

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

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

The Comedy Store

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

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

The Roxy

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

Inspired to sing your own heart out?

Blind Dragon

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

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

The Troubador

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

Doheny Room

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

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

 

 

Weekend Events: Dec. 14th-16th

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

Discover your inner Angeleno!

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

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

Friday, Dec. 14th

Moscow Ballet: Great Russian Nutcracker

Moscow Ballet: The Great Russian Nutcracker

Location:  The Wiltern

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

Barry Manilow- A Very Barry Christmas!

Barry Manilow: A Very Barry Christmas

Location: Microsoft Theater

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

Artisanal LA Holiday City Market

LA Holiday City Market

Location: Bank of America Plaza, Downtown

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

Saturday, Dec. 15th

Winter Wonderland-South LA

Winter Wonderland-South LA

Location: Baldwin Hills, Crenshaw

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

Susan Feniger Book Signing

Susan Feniger Book Signing

Location: Huntington Library, Pasadena

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

Dianne Reeves: Christmas Time is here

Dianne Reeves: Christmas Time is Here

Location: The Soraya, Northridge 

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

Sunday, Dec. 16th

Hammer Family Flicks: A Christmas Story

Hammer Museum Presents-A Christmas Story

Location: The Hammer Museum

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

An Afternoon of Poetry & Performance

 

An Afternoon of Poetry and Performance at The Broad

Location: The Broad Stage

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

Handels Messiah: Walt Disney Concert Hall

Handels Messiah-Walt Disney Concert Hall

Location: Walt Disney Concert Hall, DTLA

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

 

Weekend Events: Dec. 7th-9th

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

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

Discover your inner Angeleno!

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

Friday, Dec. 7th

Yuletide Cinemaland

Location: Heritage Square Museum, Los Angeles

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

American Contemporary Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker Suite

The American Contemporary Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker Suite

Location: California Plaza, DTLA

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

Holiday Concerts in the Playhouse District

Holiday Concerts in the Playhouse District Presents: Little Brazil

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

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

Saturday, Dec. 8th

Santa Monica Pub Crawl

Santa Monica Pub Crawl

Location: Santa Monica

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

Festival of Carols

Festival of Carols-Disney Concert Hall

Location: Disney Hall, DTLA

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

Snow Wonder

Snow Wonder

Location: Burton Chase Park

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

Sunday, Dec. 9th

Stevie Wonder’s House Full of Toys

Stevie Wonder-House Full of Toys Benefit Concert

Location: Staples Center

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

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

Big Sunday Annual Holiday Party and Sing Along

Location: 6111 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles 90038

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

KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas 2018

KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas

Location: The Forum, Inglewood

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

 

LA Eats of the Week

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

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

Ms Chi Cafe

Ms. Chi Cafe

3829 Main St
Culver City, CA 90232
(424) 361-5225

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

Konbi

Konbi

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

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

Amara Cafe

Amara Cafe

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

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

“Lunch, Brunch, Second Breakfast!”…

Badmaash Fairfax

Badmaash Fairfax

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

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

Cosa Buona

Cosa Buona

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

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

Sichuan Impression

Sichuan Impression

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

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

“What’s for Dinner?”

 Alta

Alta Adams

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

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

Jame Enoteca

Jame Enoteca

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

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

Kismet

Kismet

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

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

Courtesy of Eater LA

Out and About: Abbot Kinney Edition

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

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

In the morning…

Gjelina

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

The Beach Life

Venice, CA

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

Go Surf LA

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

During your afternoon…

“Shopper’s paradise”

Abbot Kinney Shops

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

Warby Parker

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

Midday cravings

Salt Air

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

So much time for activities!…

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

Venice Canals

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

Beyond Baroque

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

As the sun sets…

Scopa

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

Plant Food and Wine

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

Salt & Straw

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