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!!
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).
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.
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
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…
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
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
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.
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.
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 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 Tamales, Mesa Mexicana, City 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!
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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…”
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Maybe you enjoy avoiding(or barring through) deep conversations about your life with your Aunt Esther… Or simply love the holiday occasion to indulge, we’ve rounded up the best beverage recipes this season. So take a seat and a sip, because this Top 10 list is sure to make you the Thanksgiving MVP.
Pecan Pie Martini
Pecan Pie Martini
INGREDIENTS
6 oz. Rumchata
6 creme de cocoa
3 bourbon
Ice
FOR GARNISH
3 tbsp. caramel, microwaved until pourable
1/4 c. toasted chopped pecans
Cool whip, for garnish
3 whole pecans, for garnish
Sprinkle of cinnamon, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
Place caramel and toasted chopped pecans on separate small shallow plates. Dip the rim of each glass first into caramel and then into chopped pecans to coat.
Combine Rumchata, creme de cocoa, and bourbon in a large cocktail shaker. Fill with ice and shake until cold, 30 seconds. Pour into martini glasses and top with a dollop of whipped cream, a whole pecan, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Apple Cider Mimosas
Apple Cider Mimosa
INGREDIENTS
2 tbsp. sugar
1 tbsp. ground cinnamon
1 c. apple cider
1 (750-ml.) bottle bubbly
DIRECTIONS
On a small plate, combine sugar and cinnamon. Dip champagne flutes in water to wet the rims, then dip in cinnamon sugar mixture.
Fill champagne flutes 1/4 full with apple cider, then top off with champagne.
Cranberry Mules
Cranberry Mules
INGREDIENTS
2 oz. cranberry juice
2 oz. vodka
1/4 c. lime juice, plus extra for garnish
3 oz. ginger beer
1 Handful fresh or frozen cranberries
DIRECTIONS
Combine cranberry juice, vodka and lime in a glass filled with ice. Top with ginger beer, whole cranberries and garnish with a lime wedge.
Caramel Apple Spritzers
Caramel Apple Spritzer
INGREDIENTS
8 apples
Lemon wedges (to prevent apples from browning)
1/2 c. Caramel
1/4 c. cinnamon-sugar
1 750-ml bottle moscato, chilled
1 c. green apple vodka, chilled
1 c. Sprite, chilled
DIRECTIONS
Make apple cups: Slice off the top of each apple. Use an apple corer to remove the inside of the apple until you’re about 1/2″ from the bottom of the apple. Squeeze lemon juice inside the apple cups to prevent apples from browning.
Dip the rims of the apple cups in caramel then coat in cinnamon-sugar.
Make spritzer: In a large pitcher, combine moscato, green apple vodka and Sprite and stir. Pour spritzer into apple cups and serve immediately.
Pumpkin Spice Oreo Spiked Milkshake
Pumpkin Spice Oreo Milkshake
INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 oz. vodka
4 pumpkin spice Oreos, plus more for garnish
3 scoops of vanilla ice cream
1/2 c. milk
Salted caramel, for drizzling
DIRECTIONS
Place vodka, pumpkin spice Oreos, vanilla ice cream, and milk in a blender.
Pour mixture into serving glass and drizzle with salted caramel sauce.
Maple Bourbon Cocktail
Maple Bourbon
INGREDIENTS
2 ounces bourbon (I used Makers 46)
1 ounce fresh squeezed orange juice
1/2 ounce pure maple syrup
1-2 dashes of angostura bitters
orange peel + maraschino cherry for garnish
DIRECTIONS
Add ingredients to an ice filled cocktail shaker and shake until chilled. Strain into ice filled glass. Garnish with orange peel and cherry. Serve and enjoy!
Apple, Pumpkin Beer Cocktails
Apple Pumpkin Beer
Ingredients
8 ounces good-quality bourbon
9 ounces apple cider
2 1/2 ounces lemon juice
12 ounces pumpkin ale
ice
Cinnamon sticks and cranberries for garnish
Directions
In a cocktail shaker, shake together the bourbon, apple cider and lemon juice. Pour into 4 glasses filled with ice.
Pour the beer evenly into each glass.
Garnish with cinnamon sticks and cranberries. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pear and Thyme Fizz
Pear and Thyme Fizz
Ingredients:
2 cups good-quality apple juice
1 ripe but firm pear, very thinly sliced
12 sprigs fresh thyme
1/4 cup orange-flavored liqueur (I like grand marnier)
1. In a pitcher, combine apple juice, pears, thyme and liqueur. Stir together, then refrigerate for 2 – 4 hours to allow the pears and thyme to infuse the juice with flavor.
2. Divide between 6 champagne flutes, discarding thyme, then fill remainder of each glass with champagne. Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh thyme. Bottoms up!
Cava and Pomegranate Cocktail
Cava and Pomegranate
Ingredients
Seeds from 1 pomegranate
Two 750-milliliter bottles cava or other sparkling dry white wine, chilled
1/4 cup pomegranate juice
Directions
Fill 12 flutes with cava.
Add 1 teaspoon of the pomegranate juice to each flute
garnish with pomegranate seeds and serve.
Hard Cider Sangria
Hard Cider Sangria
Ingredients
1 cup quartered and thinly sliced unpeeled green, yellow and red apples
1 navel orange—quartered and thinly sliced crosswise
1 cup apple juice, chilled
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup apple brandy
One 22-ounce bottle hard apple cider, chilled
Ice
Directions
In a pitcher, combine the apples with the orange, apple juice, lemon juice and brandy.
Just before serving, add the hard cider(Angry Orchard, Stella Artois, etc..).
With Thanksgiving mere days away there is one crucial guide you’ll need for your holiday travels. Where to eat? Spare yourself the Cinnabon and take your flight bites to new heights(Double Points for Rhyming!). Below is your LAX cuisine guide by terminal. So read on and quench your cravings. Because there hasn’t been a sorting this good since Harry Potter chose Gryffindor(If your not watching HP with the fam is it even the holidays?!?!).
Terminal 1
Trejo’s Tacos
Trejo’s Tacos
Gate 11a
Fans of the film actor will know these tasty tacos have been making wave in the city if angels. With locations citywide, it is no wonder Trejo Tacos has set up shop at LAX. You wont find all of the menu offerings your used to at his other locations, but all the favorites are accounted for. Try the steak asada or vegan optioned cauliflower and jackfruit. With bowls, burritos, and quesadillas, there is plenty to chose from Trejo’s.
Cassell’s
Cassell’s
Gate 11a
In the same newly added food quarters as Trejo Tacos is the 60-year-old iconic burger counter–Cassell’s. Order diner style classics with their patty melts and cheeseburgers, and enjoy added extra’s like fried egg and sweet potato fries. To keep it retro, finish off with an old-fashioned milkshake which is sure to send you into dessert beverage paradise.
Terminal 2
Sealegs Wine Bar
Sealegs
Gate 28
Looking for something a bit more in the sit-down restaurant realm and less on the grab and go don’t miss your flight vibe? Well you shouldn’t miss your flight but you should enjoy stylish decor, quality food and appropriately priced wine at Sealegs Wine Bar. While the food is not quite the bites from the sea you’d assume from it’s title, you will find delicious “California-esq” cuisine.
Built Custom Burgers
Built Custom Burger
Gate 24A
You will find no shortage of burger joints in our bustling LA airport, but you will find a craft your own option at Custom Built Burgers. Choose bun or bowl, beef, turkey, chicken or vegan patty and a full range of free toppings to make your pick of.
Slapfish
Slapfish
Gate 23A
Up your breakfast game and stop by Slapfish for their take on the morning meal. Choose between shrimp and grits, lobster-egg-avocado tacos and a smoked salmon-veggie-and-herb-topped bagel. Missing the am cut off time, their lobster roll or New England clam chowder is an equally satisfying midday match.
Terminal 3
The Parlor
The Parlor
Gate 37A
To all true sports fanatics, no fret on missing your teams play by play(unless your mid-air, you’ll catch it when you land)! The Parlor has set-up the perfect offshoot of its Melrose spot to help you keep score. Enjoy great cocktails and a grilled four-cheese sandwich on parmesan bread in the comfiest leather lounge you don’t need mileage points to enter.
Shake Shack
Shake Shack
Gate 34
So everyone from NYC to LA and yonder knows the “dealio” with Shake Shack. If you don’t allow us to educate you. Born out of the city that never sleeps in a hot dog cart(really the original food truck) is everyones favorite burger joint. Keep it basic with a ShackBurger smothered in their famed Shack Sauce. Or venture down the fast food road with a griddled flat-top dog stacked with tomatoes and pickles! Orrrrrr the underrated super crispy Chicken Shack and an over-the-top-in-all-the-right-ways frozen custard. Ok we’re done now.
Terminal 4
Real Food Daily
Real Food Daily
Gate 44
Whether you’ve joined the plant-based fan club, really don’t want another greasy burger, or are actually vegan–Real Food Daily is here to appease all. So don’t tire yourself on a mediocre Kale Salad from Airport Snack Shack that shall not be named(more HP jokes, your welcome!) and appease your taste buds. Try the seitan-and-tempah club or veggie-miso soup along with all of their other vegan goods to grab and go. Your natural, gluten-free, dairy-free, non-gmo foods gods will thank you.
Cole’s
Coles
Gate 44
Local’s will know Cole’s as DTLA most classic French Dip sandwich joint and those not from LA now also know it as the above. Whether your new or old to the famed spot(est. 1908, crazy right?), it’s LAX shop dishes out a equally delicious take. Pair yours with a side of spicy garlic fries and bacon potato salad to complete the meal and wash it down with their signature Old Fashioned.
Terminal 5
Lemonade
Lemonade
Gate 50B
As we have said intermittently throughout this article, if your over the airport norm of cuisine, we have your covered. Or to be more precise, Lemonade has you covered, at least in the fresh marketplace seasonal offerings realm of things. With various salads and veggie heavy dishes to chose from like the roasted broccoli with ricotta and chile-roasted butternut squash…need we go on?
Ford’s Filling Station
Ford’s Filling Station
Gate 55A
Modeled after its Culver City predecessor, Ford’s Fueling Station is the gastropub inside an airport you’ve been searching for. While it’s La County locations are long gone, you will still find all the classics at this last standing outpost. From the pub burger, to bacon wrapped dates and their Cubano flatbread, you’ll wish you traveled more often.
Terminal 6
Osteria
Osteria
Gate 64A
One of the many eateries that have come courtesy of Top Chef fan favorite Fabio Vivani, Osteria your attractive LAX option. With its orange leather cushioned seating, glass wine wall, and elegantly tiled pizza oven, its has fun to eat in as it is to lounge in. The semi-italian menu offers bites from panini to marina meatballs along with bar style choices like their truffle potato skins and veggie burger. Molto buona!!!
Earthbar
Earthbar
Gate 64A
Those of us with an Equinox membership will know it as our power-up spot and those of us who don’t will at least have juiced up at the original juice bar at some point in our LA lives. Earthbar is your pre-flight go to. Have a mix of berries, hemp milk, almond butter, and maca along with their signature Earthfusion protein to sooth or aid your air-bound jotters. They also offer Acai bowls, tasty trail mixes, fresh fruit, and other feel good food options.
Terminal 7
B Grill by BOA Steakhouse
B Grill by BOA Steakhouse
Gate 73
This more relaxed version of the swanky steakhouse BOA is the place to hit when you want more elevated airport fare (especially if you have an expense account at your disposal). Think NY strip, petit filet with red wine butter, and the same signature stacked Chop Chop salad that’s served at the Santa Monica and West Hollywood restaurants. You can also expect gussied-up gourmet burgers, wraps, and a few pastas, as well as a thoroughly respectable wine list.
BLD
BLD
Gate 72B
For something food-court-fast, sidle up to this spot that does serviceable American fare of turkey clubs, grilled chicken salads, and bacon-and-egg sandwiches on sourdough as well as vegan options including a soyrizo breakfast burrito, Impossible burger, and grain bowl.
Terminal 8
Engine Co. No. 28
Engine Co. No. 28
Gate 83
The good news is you’re just a terminal away from the pinnacle of LAX dining at Tom Bradley International terminal. The bad news is you’re in Terminal 8, and your options are lame and limited to mainly fast food like Carl’s Jr. and Panda Express. If you want a proper drink, you can get it here in addition to a range of food items like corn chowder, an ahi tuna salad, and veggie chili.
Tom Bradley International Terminal
The Great Hall
Larder at Tavern-The Great Hall
gate 148
This 15,000-square-foot dining and retail behemoth is one of the best things to come out of the billion-dollar-plus renovation that turned this terminal into one that actually looks like it belongs in an airport servicing the country’s second biggest city. Here you’ll find a lot of fast-casual versions of LA restaurants you know and love (or in some cases loved). Grab brick-oven pizza at 800 Degrees; tacos, tamales, and tortilla soup at the city’s last standing Border Grill; baked goods and lattes at Larder at Tavern; and an above-average sandwich selection at Michael Voltaggio’s Ink Sack.
Petrossian Caviar & Champagne Bar
Petrossian Caviar and Champagne Bar
gate 148
You’re already plunking down several months’ salary on a trip out of the country, so you might as get the baller ball rolling at the airport with champagne and crazy amounts of caviar at this den of decadence. Sure, you can grab a to-go “Caviar Picnic in the Sky” that starts at $200 and runs upwards of $1,000, but if you want to start off a bit tamer with a more reasonable bite onsite, go for the “Petit Petrossian” caviar plate (for a bargain $48), caviar flatbread, or caviar deviled eggs.
Vanilla Bake Shop
Vanilla Bake Shop
Gate 150
The cupcake trend may be on life support, but airports have their own culinary rules, and that glass case of mini confections with perfectly piped frosting can look mighty good when you’re wandering aimlessly during a delay-induced stupor. What the heck, you’re on vacation…
