L.A. Eat’s of the Week

By: Samira Murphy

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 suggestions.

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

For a less traditional but still foodie-worthy breakfast we suggest venturing out of your morning norm and opting for Squirl. Dishing out global inspired dishes for breakfast and lunch, you’ll leave feeling as if your tastebuds traveled the world and back in time to beat the 2nd rush hour if the day. Try The Hash– a mouth watering blend of roasted Milliken Sweet Potato & Wieser potato hash mixed with urfa dusted poblanos & finished with a charred shishito green sauce and a fried egg. Or opt for their take on the household favorite-a Buckwheat and Cactus Flour Pancake, featuring Cocoa Nibs Pudding, Toasted Coconut, Fresh Fruit. Located at720 Virgil Ave #4
M-F 6:30a-4p & S-Su 8a-4p.

Craving a Petit déjeuner? Petit Trois is serving up their take on Parisian fare. A French bistro co-owned by chefs Ludo Lefebvre, Jon Shook, and Vinny Dotolo, Petit Trois the perfect breakfast rendezvous. There is everything from the Croque Monsieur-a tasteful pairing of Parisian ham, bechamel, and Swiss cheese to the more risqué Steak and Eggs topped with Escargot butter and a finely selected ribeye. Arrivé at their Valley location for breakfast or venture to Highland for lunch. Hours in the Valley are 8a-10p. Located at 13705 VENTURA BLVD, SHERMAN OAKS.

Lunch, Brunch, 2nd Breakfast!

If your not too full from breakfast then save room for Baroo-a free style experimental kitchen offering seasonal menu items sourced locally and produced organically. If you happen to stop by when they are offering their House-fermented Kombbucha–the Elderfower is an ideal pairing alongside the Kimchi Fried Rice or signature Ragu. Stay current on their lunch offerings by clicking here, and visit them at 5706 Santa Monica Blvd Los Angeles. Tu-Sa 12PM – 3PM / 5PM – 9PM. Sun – Mon : Closed.

Staying on the adventurous side, Animal is a favorite as well hit from Petit Trois Chefs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo. A James Beard awarded restaurant, one would not find themselves disappointed at any selection off the carefully curated brunch selection. Try the Eggplant Katsu-a blend of yuzu kosho aioli, togarashi, kombu marinated cucumber. Or satisfy your sweet tooth with the Cheesecake Pudding made with guava, passion fruit, and graham. You’ll have to hold tight through the week as brunch is only offered Saturday-Sunday from 10:30a-2:30p…but its well worth the wait. Located at 435 NORTH FAIRFAX, LOS ANGELES.

“What’s for dinner?”

Not your average dinner selection, Scratch Bar & Kitchen is staying on the L.A. trend of tasting menus and winning at it. Offering selections that fit almost every dietary need from Pescatarian to Vegetarian, and the fish or meat eaters in between. The courses change by the month and are anywhere from Bone Marrow to Blue Fin. If your up for the choice menu, it is priced at $145 per person and advance deposit is required. To peek at what’s on the selection this month go here. And if you so happen to wish in partaking in their seasonal fare make a reservation here. Open 5:30-10p and located at 16101 Ventura Boulevard, Encino.

Pizza with House Cured Smoked Salmon @ Spago BH

So they say the story goes… During the era of big hair and bigger attitudes—a couple rockstars walked into the Original Spago on the Sunset Strip. They wanted a bagel and lox. It was sometime near midnight and they were fresh out of the breakfast bread of choice. The Chef de Cuisine not shying away from the challenge, threw together what they could. On thin crisp bread and a delectable layer of Creme Fraiche the Smoked Salmon Pizza was born and thus a Spago favorite. Available whenever your cravings desire, we recommend trying this legendary dish to start off your evening.

If you’d rather chose more traditional dinner options there is everything from the perfectly seasoned Jidori Chicken to Pecking Duck for two. There’s nothing more Iconic than rockstar pizza and the award winning bites of Wolfgang Puck in the heart of Beverly Hills. Dinner begins at 6p M-W, and 5:30p Th-Su. Located at 176 North Canon Drive Beverly Hills.

September 25, 2018October 1, 2018

It’s 5 O’clock somewhere: L.A.’s best Happy Hours

Whether your zooming from the office, meeting clients, or looking to cool down on a hot “fall-ish” day–we are pleased to provide you with the best in show of L.A’s Happy Hours. Cue the Jimmy Buffet music, throw on your after-work shoes and read below for the top picks!

Otoño

5715 N Figueroa St
Los Angeles, CA 90042

Highland Park’s wonderful new Spanish restaurant has a rich history and helpful Happy Hour from 4 to 6 p.m. daily with $3 tapas, discounted beers, and $8 cocktails. There’s even $5 vermouth blanco which should make the experience even more like something in Valencia. Just be sure to come early to nab a seat at the bar.

Connie and Ted’s

8171 Santa Monica Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90046

(323) 848-2722

There’s a new late night happy hour for West Hollywood denizens at Santa Monica Boulevard mainstay Connie & Ted’s, with $1 oysters Sunday to Thursday evening from 9 to 10 p.m. Connie & Ted’s also has an afternoon happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m., but the late night is the only time to get those dollar oysters. Afternoon Happy Hour features $5 beers, $6 wines, and a $7 margarita, too.

Gesso

801 N Fairfax Ave #101
Los Angeles, CA 90046West Hollywood

Locals have a new after-work go-to thanks to Gesso’s weekday Happy Hour. From 5 to 7 p.m., an eclectic set of everything from hummus plates to anchovy toast to pate banh mi is all on the menu for $10. Specialty cocktails and wine by the glass also float around the $7 mark.

Spartina

7505 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90046

(323) 782-1023

This Melrose standby encourages diners to get social with its extended “Social Club,” available all day Monday and at the bar Sunday through Thursday. It’s surely a pleasant way to bring people together over $8 classic and specialty cocktails and $5 antipasti.

Sotto

9575 W Pico Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90035

At long last, one of LA’s favorite neighborhood Italian restaurants Sotto has finally launched happy hour. Available Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the bar, dive into chef Steve Samson’s outstanding margherita pizza for only $10. Add a $17 pitcher of Peroni, and it’s a recipe for one of the best Happy Hour deals in town.

Native Santa Monica

620 Santa Monica Blvd Suite A
Santa Monica, CA 90401

Nyesha Arrington’s passion project Native goes around the globe with its new Community Hour. From Tuesday to Sunday from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., try international, sub-$5 bites like bacon with gochujang glaze, deviled eggs with berbere spice and injera, and ceviche with lime. Classic cocktails are available for $8.

Content Curated courtesy of: Eater LA

September 20, 2018October 1, 2018

Weekend Events: Sept. 21st-23rd

By: Samira Murphy

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. That time where we’re unsure if awards season is starting or ending, fall is summer style and evening chills, and our work weeks have entered the post holiday full swing. With all the hustle and bustle of our weekday routine we bring you a curated list of this weekends top activities happening throughout L.A.

Discover your inner Angeleno!

Limited engagements taking place this Sept. 21st-23rd features the return of the LA Film Festival to a Smorgasborg of eats in DTLA. Read below for a breakdown of the weekend events.

Friday Sept. 21st

If your looking for a weekend activity that is Tinseltown approved–look no further than the LA Film Festival. The non-profit arts organization Film Independent showcases the industries top up-and-coming filmmakers from around the world at this 9 day event. Take part in coffee talks or sit back and enjoy the show. Either way, your sure to have cinematic experience and maybe even meet the next Michael Bay. Tickets can be purchased at: Tickets
Wanting a dose of old Hollywood? The Essentially Marilyn Exhibit is a celebration of one of films greatest icon’s taking place at the Paley Center for Media. Susan King, of the LA Times says “It’s hard not to be dazzled by the iconic costumes and oversized Milton Greene photos of Marilyn Monroe at the “Essentially Marilyn: The Exhibit” on display at The Paley Center for Media in Beverly Hills.” Find yourself mesmerized by the glimmering portraits and pristine pieces kept from her greatest works and don’t miss out on this free exhibit in the heart of Beverly Hills.
Paging Dr. Grey! Pop Sugar and ABC are presenting the ultimate Grey’s Anatomy experience in celebration of the shows landmark 15th season. Step into Shondaland and view original art, installations, and artifacts inspired by the shows most defining moments. Anatomy of an Icon: 15 Seasons of Grey’s is a special exhibit taking place this weekend only 11a-7p. RSVP here.

Saturday Sept. 22nd

There’s a new all-outdoor weekend food party happening in Studio City, and it includes some very well-known names. The pop up is called Valley Urban Market and it lands in the parking lot of the Sportsman’s Lodge every Saturday starting September 22. With more than a dozen food vendors like Lobsterdamus, Sunny Blue, Urban Pie, and Hearth and Olive. Even Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters will be helping him out. Expect hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.
The Hollywood hills are alive with The Sound of Music! See the beloved Hollywood Bowl transformed when hundreds of Maria’s descend upon it for Sing-a-long Sound of Music. Watch the classic film on the enormous movie screen and, of course, sing-a-long when your favorite songs come on. Don’t miss the pre-show costume parade! This much-loved annual event is hosted by local celebrity Melissa Peterman, and promises to be on of the LA calender’s most unmissable Summer event! For more info and tickets click here.
From the era of Vogue to the Era of Instagram, the best fashion photographs remind us of other works of art or expand the boundaries of the genre, redefining what a fashion photograph is supposed to do, or be. The Getty Centers newest exhibit–Icons of Style: A Century of Fashion Photography surveys the rich and varied history of modern fashion photography. On view now through October 21st, don’t miss this dive into the glamour of fashion. Admission is free.
Icons of Style @ The Getty Center

Sunday Sept. 23rd

Indulge your inner foodie and shopaholic at this weekly food-focused market. Smorgasburg LA— a Brooklyn export has landed in the Arts District and become a hotbed of fantastic food and retail vendors, with some that are testing out their dishes before launching a full-blown brick-and-mortar in the city. Added bonus: there is plentiful (and free, for two hours!) parking in the nearby parking garage. For more info click here.
Mid-Autumn Festival @ The Langham
Looking to head east? Literally and figuratively speaking, The Langham Pasadena presents their Mid-Autumn festival. A Night Market-style event with live music, dragon-dancing, and interactive food stations serving dim sum, mooncakes, and more. Added bonus: it starts at 5pm, so there’s plenty of time to hit it all before heading over to the Rose Bowl for Jay-Z and Beyonce.
Admission is: $38-88. For more info click here.

September 13, 2018October 1, 2018

L.A. 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 suggestions.

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

Steve Benjamin, Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Deden Putra, Richard Archuleta

With a name as cinematic as its location-The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker serves a mouthful of a title and menu selection. A perfect mix of cafe chic and Californian cuisine. Have your pick between their delectable Ricotta Pancakes or opt for a perfectly seasoned 28 day aged Steak paired with organic eggs and accoutrements. Nestled in the iconic Sunset Plaza, the BBCM serves it fresh 8am-10pm M-Su.

Nestling into its first year with a Forbes rating under its belt, Jean Georges of The Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills provides a fine dining approach to your breakfast routine. For those on the go, JG provides the ease of simple selections like their famed Sunny Side Up Frittata or house baked pastries. Or if you have time to indulge chose between the decadent Caviar Scramble or Organic Stone Fruit Toast with Elderflower Glaze. Reservations are available as early as 7am M-Su.

Lunch, Brunch, 2nd Breakfast!

When the lunch clock hits, Avra of Beverly Hills has successfully figured out how to serve. Offering a 3 course pre-fixe menu for the ideal midday price of under $30, patrons can choose from a range of Mediterranean fare. This bounty of greek goodness includes the freshest selection of seafood one can feast their eyes on(literally, they have the fish on display) to options fitting any foodie–meat eater’s and vegetarian’s rejoice! The fixed course menu is available M-Fri 11:30am-4:30pm. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

Offering ocean views and rooftop vibes essential to any L.A. seaside eatery; Elephante is an ideal spot for those wishing to lunch through the week and brunch through weekend. Boasting food that punches well above it’s weight class and a whose who of clientele, Santa Monica’s newest hot spot is on point and trend. With a terrific array of wood-fired pizzas, house extruded pastas, and seasonal salads that should please just about any palate–reservations are available M-Fri at 12pm and S-Su at 10am.

“What’s for dinner?”

Say bonjour to L.A.’s newest Parisian delight–Tesse. Located atop the Sunset Strip; Chef Bill Chait returns to Lalaland with his take on French-Californian fare. Offering a Charcuterie centric selection from saucisse de Lyon to foie gras terrine with figs and Armagnac, one will feel as if their taste-buds drifted to Europe and back. The appetizers and mains equally please with selections such as crispy veal sweetbreads and a 34 ounce dry-aged ribeye, ending blissfully on a sweet note with their duck egg crème brûlée with almond tuile. Your diner rendezvous is served daily 6-10:30pm.

Tucked away amongst the bungalows of the Chateau Marmont is Chateau Hanare-a japanese fine dining restaurant that has built up shop on the lush L.A. property. This exclusive see or be seen hidden gem provides a range of delicacies from a Kaiseki tasting menu, in-house freshly made tofu, and unique menu highlights such as the chef’s recommended Uni Ice cream. There is something for everyone to be found in Hollywood’s best kept secret. Reservations are available Su-Th 6pm-11pm and Fri-S 6pm-12am.

September 12, 2018October 1, 2018

Weekend Events: Sept. 14th-16th

By: Samira Murphy

Los Angeles is a limitless playground of fun for all ages. Since time is of the essence (outside our famed traffic jams!)—we break through the hustle and bustle to bring you a curated list of this weekends top activities happening throughout L.A.

Discover your inner Angeleno!

Limited engagements taking place this Sept. 14th-16th features highlights from the art collection of the beloved late comedian Robin Williams to the return of L.A.’s scariest fall attraction Halloween Horror Nights. Read below for a breakdown of the weekend events.

Friday Sept. 14th

Robin Williams Archive @ Sotheby's Century City — Robin Williams Archive @ Sotheby’s Century City

View highlight pieces from the personal collection of beloved actor and Comedian-the late Robin Williams and wife Marsha Garces Williams. Sothebys will showcase more than 30 items. These include scripts, props, and awards that belonged to America’s favorite funnyman. Admission is free and the exhibit is located at: 2029 Century Park E. Suite 2950
Looking to jumpstart your scare season? Look no further than the return of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios. The park-wide attraction opens opens up Sept. 14th and provides unlimited frights until Nov. 3rd 7pm-2am nightly. New to this year’s fear-inducing line-up is a Stranger Things’ maze. Joining a list of fan favorites from Poltergeist to the Terror Tram. Tickets range in price and can be purchased at: Tickets
Roar into the weekend with L.A. Zoo’s final installment of their summer concert series Roaring Nights. Guest 21 and up are invited on a exploration of art, music and wildlife . All happening as an after-hours adventure through the landmark Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens. There’s everything to offer from unique animal interactions, crafted cocktails and favorite food trucks. 6pm-10:30pm. Tickets are $21 and can be purchased in person or online at: Tickets

Saturday Sept. 15th

Humor yourself at Don’t Tell Comedy‘s secret pop-up show in the heart of Hollywood at 8pm. Featuring a mix of celebrity headliners, that in the past has included comedians like Ali Wong and Iliza Shlesinger. A sure way to spice up your weekend. The lineup is a secret to attendees until the show starts. But this 200th installment of laughter for a cause is likely to bring a range of surprises and special guest. Location is revealed via email at noon the day of the show and tickets ranging in price can be purchased at: Tickets
In celebration of its 40th anniversary Galerie Michael will have amongst it’s walls a plethora of works by modernist pioneer Marc Chagall. Glance at pieces ranging from color etchings to lithographs by the famed artist. All of which have yet to be seen by the public eye. Admission is free and the exhibit is located in the Golden Triangle on 224 N. Rodeo Dr. M-Sa 10a-7p; Su 11a-5p.
For the early athletic birds, the 32nd annual Nautica Triathalon returns to Zuma beach in Malibu at 7am with registration beginning at 5am. Athletes, celebrities, and philanthropists are among those who turn out to swim, bike and run. All proceeds going to benefit the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles pediatric cancer research program. Truly a great experience for the entire family! This two-day event even includes a Nautica Kids Run and Tot trot. For information on registration and prices go to: More info

Sunday Sept. 16th

Close out your weekend with sounds by America’s most culturally diverse orchestra The Southeast Symphony. Celebrating their final concert of the 2017-18 season, they undertake a grand retrospective and compelling narrative about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his influence on 20th Century America. “Revolution/Resurrection”, will be performed at 6pm in UCLA’s Royce Hall under the baton of Music Director Anthony Parnther with a complimentary post concert reception provided by Urth Caffe. Tickets range in price and can be purchased at: Tickets
Bringing relevant laughter to the conversation, SNL Alum Alison Sweeney debuts her one woman show I, AS WELL . With a focus on the movements of the modern era, Sweeney aims to reflect through her own humorous stories, jokes, and musings. As an actress, comedian and author best known for her time on Saturday Night Live, she returns to her comedic roots at The Groundlings at 6pm with limited dates through the fall. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at: Tickets
With football season kicking off our Los Angeles Rams host the Arizona Cardinals for their 2018 home opener. Spend your afternoon at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum–the only venue to host two Summer Olympics and soon to be a third(hello 2028!)–and watch the Ram’s lead L.A. to NFL victory. Tickets and seating information are available via Ticketmaster at: Tickets