Out and About: East L.A. Edition

We know what your thinking, East L.A. edition? Isn’t that a bit broad. And where is East L.A.? Isn’t everything past WEHO just L.A? This edition is for the locals, your where’s where of places to dine, shop, and see as a true Angeleno would care to do.

On the list of up-and-coming neighborhoods you can relocate to, we share with you East L.A.’s most noteworthy stops to the best restaurants in Los Feliz.  You’ll wonder why you don’t step outside your zip code more often.

Morning

Skylight Books

Swing by the airy Skylight Books and peruse the independent shop’s well-curated staff picks for some morning reading material, then take your paperback of choice up the street to the small patio at caffeine-fix mainstay Bru Coffeebar. If you’re after a decadent breakfast, claim a booth and order up something from the griddle at 24/7 throwback diner Fred 62. Wait out your inevitable food coma with a $6.50 early matinee in the plush, Egyptian-style Vista Theatre.

Vista Theatre

Afternoon

Soap Planet Wacko

Work your way down Vermont Avenue and its collection of shops, from radical decor courtesy of queer feminist-owned Otherwild to an indescribable assortment of pop culture at Soap Plant Wacko. Then cross over Hollywood Boulevard and climb up to Barnsdall Art Park for a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s landmark, the temple-like Hollyhock House.

Hollyhock House

Make your way back to the other side of town and into Griffith Park for a sandwich and slice of pie from the Trails Cafe, which overlooks the lovely Fern Dell, a shaded, rustic oasis equally stocked with relaxing strolls and hiking trailheads.

Evening

Feeling intrepid? Hike the two-mile trail up to Griffith Observatory. Otherwise, drive up and settle in for a sunset with shimmery city views from the Art Deco hilltop observatory.

Alcove Cafe

Trek back down for dinner on one of L.A.’s most idyllic patios at Alcove Cafe and Bakery, which serves up large, unfussy plates in its twinkle-lit courtyard, with top-notch whimsical cocktails at the adjoining Big Bar. Afterward, make sure to visit lounge legends Marty and Elayne at the Dresden before swinging by House of Pies for a midnight slice of banana cream pie.

House of Pies
Courtesy of: Time Out L.A.

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 eats throughout L.A.

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

The Gables

331 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
The Gables
The Gables

The Gables is a counter-order, neighborhood restaurant, serving an all-day, market-driven menu of homestyle California cuisine and fresh baked goods by Chef Vicki Fan Matsusaka. We recommend the Bodega Breakfast  Sunny, a pairing of busted eggs, nueske’s bacon and American cheese on ciabatta.

Lucky Boy

Lucky Boy
640 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena, CA  91105

The crispy diner-style hashbrowns, loads of melty cheddar, eggs, and bacon make the breakfast burrito at Lucky Boy the absolute platonic ideal. If you only eat one breakfast burrito for the rest of your life, it should be this one.

The Village Bakery

The Village Bakery
3119 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90039

The Village Bakery and Cafe is a neighborhood place, located in a real neighborhood: Atwater Village in Los Angeles. All of of their food is prepared right in their kitchen every day from fresh and natural ingredients, including farmer’s market fruits and vegetables.  Our go to is the Atwater Special–Grilled polenta cake topped with parmesan cheese, scrambled eggs, spinach, tomatoes and crumbled bacon. Served on a parmesan crisp plate. Morning Perfection!

“Lunch, Brunch 2nd Breakfast!”

Sushi Note

Sushi Note
13447 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

The restaurant is a collaboration between some of LA’s best names in wine and sushi, with an extensive wine selection and food from celebrated chef Kiminobu Saito. Gibbs’ sushi and wine approach is a casual one, as he wants diners to pair anything their hearts desire, even if it’s a delicate piece of snapper with a bold Napa red. Chef Saito has also brought on Takeshi Matsuzaki from Tama Sushi as his second in sliced-fish command.

Milk Bar

Milk Bar
7150 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046

Not exactly lunch  but we all need an afternoon pick me up from time to time. Milk Bar is an award-winning bakery led by chef and owner Christina Tosi. They believe in a world of endless possibilities, and create playfully nostalgic desserts that celebrate innovation and quality. Indulge in the seasonal favorite Pumpkin Dulce De Leche- a sweetness overload of vanilla spice cake, milk crumbs, roasted pumpkin ganache, dulce de leche, and roasted pepitas. Your inner fall fanatic will thank us later!

Roberta’s

Roberta’s
8850 Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA

Greater Los Angeles’s pizza moment continues with Roberta’s at the Platform project in Culver City. The famed Brooklyn pizza joint that counts Beyonce and Jay-Z as fans fired  out their popular East Coast menu. West Coast Roberta’s carries much the same menu as the original, with a lean on blistered pizzas as well as wood-fired vegetables, pasta, and cured meat. There’s room for lots of funky wines as well, and a full bar for cocktails to boot.

“What’s for dinner?”

Simone

Simone
449 S Hewitt St., Los Angeles, CA 90013

The long-awaited restaurant from James Beard Award-winning chef Jessica Largey is now open in Los Angeles’ Arts District. The multifaceted space features a dining room serving relaxed, produce-driven California fare, with a classic, elevated wine list by Beverage Director Jordan Egan (NoMad), and craft cocktails from Bar Director Iain McPherson (Edinburgh’s Panda and Sons).

Ronan

Ronan
7315 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046

This fresh addition to Melrose, called Ronan, is a newcomer project from Daniel Cutler (Sotto and Alimento) and his wife, Caitlin, whose resume includes experience at popular LA spots Hatchet Hall and Huckleberry, Eater Los Angeles reports. On the menu, expect to see shareable dishes such as chicken liver pate; pollen-dusted pork chops; and grilled snapper with fermented green tomato and roasted fennel. Craving pizza? Come try wood-fired specialties like the White Dynamite with ricotta, basil, garlic and Calabrian chili oil; or the Pixxa — a pie topped with mole rosso, squash blossom, Jersey ricotta and coriander flower. (You can check out the dining menu here.)

Asanebo

Asanebo
11941 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604

If you want to understand Asanebo, the sleek Japanese restaurant at the heart of Studio City’s sushi bar strip, you could do worse than to look at the tiny dish of chawanmushi there, the inevitable beginning to one of the long, multi-coursed omakase meals that are the restaurant’s reason for being. All Asanebo asks from you is an open mind, plus rather a lot of money. In exchange, you spend an hour or so in an elevated state of being.

Weekend Events: Oct. 12th-14th

Boo At The Zoo

We know what your thinking…more fall weekend activities in L.A.! Well if you weren’t thinking that, you are now(your welcome) and you can still read ahead because we’ve rounded up the next haul of weekend activities taking place in and around L.A. So grab your broomsticks and join us for this weekends tricks and treats throughout your neck of the woods!

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 Oct. 12th-14th feature Pumpkin Nights Pomona to Cheat Day in DTLA! Read below for a breakdown of the weekend events.

 

friday oct. 12th

American Contemporary Ballet Presents Halloween Hellraiser

American Contemporary Ballet
American Contemporary Ballet

Location: DTLA

The American American Contemporary Ballet invites you to their Halloween “Hellraiser” this weekend. This one night only event includes the world premiere of Burlesque and the opening night of Inferno. You will meet the composer Charles Wuorinen (one of the most eminent in the world), hear from ACB’s Artistic Director Lincoln Jones about his vision for the future of ballet, and have an opportunity to support one of the most cutting-edge performing arts companies working today. The evening will also include a reception where a selection of fine foods, wine, and other surprises will be available to indulge in. For ticket prices and more information click here.

*A portion of your ticket purchase is tax deductible.

Music @ Lacma

Jazz at LACMA
Jazz at LACMA

Location: LACMA, Los Angeles

Spend your evening beneath the stars and amongst the art of the Los Angeles Contemporary Museum. The LACMA Jazz series is free to the public and takes place in the museum’s Smidt Welcome Plaza. Arrive early to claim your seats and enjoy a selection of gourmet food and wine from Ray’s special Jazz night menu. This weekend’s concert features famed pianist and composer Josh Nelson. Nelson has performed and toured with some of the leading names in jazz. For more information click here. 

San Fernando Valley Halloween Drive-In Nights

San Fernando Valley Halloween Drive-In Nights
San Fernando Valley Halloween Drive-In Nights

Location: Lake Balboa Complex

“It’s just a little Hocus Pocus”

Don’t miss this weekends showing of the cult classic family favorite(so many adjectives!) Halloween film Hocus Pocus.  The event is being hosted by San Fernando Valley’s Halloween Drive-In Night where patrons cruise in for a truly authentic retro-style movie experience. The night will be a double-feature screening of Hocus Pocus and Christine. Guest have the option to purchase tickets for one or both films. Additionally, a variety of food trucks and family-friendly pre-show entertainment will also be provided. To join the Sanderson sisters and find out more information click here. 

Saturday oCT. 13TH

Comedy Comedy Festival 

The Comedy Comedy Festival
The Comedy Comedy Festival

Location: DTLA

For a weekend of laughs and fun performances, join Disoriented Comedy and the JACCC for their 4th annual comedy festival. Indulge your funny bone with over 100 performers and famed comedians like “Adam Ruins Everything”‘s Adam Conover, Danny Pudi and Mary Sohn. Pop in for afternoon humor or enjoy the evening line up at this 3-day fest. The Comedy Comedy Festival is sponsored by the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center, CBS Diversity Program and NBC Universal T.I.P. For more information and to purchase tickets click here.

Pumpkin Nights Pomona

Pumpkin Nights Pomona
Pumpkin Nights Pomona

Location: 1101 W. McKinley Avenue, Pomona

Take part in this year’s Pumpkin Nights, an interactive experience inviting guests to explore eight different eight themed pumpkin-lands crafted with over 3,000 pumpkins! Demonstrations by professional pumpkin artists, pumpkin fire shows, pumpkin magic shows, and plenty of other pumpkin-themed activities and offerings will take place throughout the special 23 day event. Non-pumpkin offerings will be available as well, including a scavenger hunt, screening of Pixar’s Coco, food trucks, and plenty more for the whole family. For more information click here.

UMPO presents Bridesmaids @ The Rockwell

The Unauthorized Musical Parody of Bridesmaids at The Rockwell
The Unauthorized Musical Parody of Bridesmaids at The Rockwell

Location: The Rockwell Table and Stage, Los Feliz

For an evening of music, laughs, and scrumptious eats UMPO’s production of Bridesmaids is the trifecta. Based off of the 2011 box office hit film, this musical parody put on at East L.A.’s Rockwell Table & Stage is theatrical magic. Most noteworthy is the venue which is styled as a cabaret with entertainment all around you. Tickets do require a (2) food/drink minimum and the menu never disappoints. Keep an eye out in the crowd as well, as the Rockwell is known to have its celebrity neighbor patrons stop by. For more information click here.

sunday oct. 14th

Boo @ the Zoo

Boo At The Zoo
Boo At The Zoo

Location: Griffith Park

Join the L.A. Zoo for their spooktacular day’s of fun during the month of october. Weekend events include the Swazzle’s Monster Menagerie Puppet Show, “Spooktacular Science” Show, Masterpiece Pumpkins with Gene Granata, Crocodilian Craft, and the Fearsome Feedings & Creature Treats. It’s perfect outing for the whole family! The L.A. Zoo will also be featuring their Spooky Stroll where you’ll find Halloween games, a mini-pumpkin patch, and “boo-tiful” photo ops. Therefor, all ghouls and goblins are encouraged to wear costumes! For more information on the fun filled activities click here.

Cheat Day Land-DTLA

Cheat Day Land
Cheat Day Land

Location: DTLA

Is there a better way to spend your Sunday then as your “Cheat Day”? The story of Cheat Day Land is one of family and passion. An experience in which the celebration of family, food, and fun ooze out of every room you will experience. Similar to last summer’s hit the Ice Cream Museum and other recent Pop-Up photo perfect experiences-Cheat Day Land welcomes you with open arms… because you deserve it! For more information click here.

Night of Jack

Night of Jack
Night of Jack

Location: 26800 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas

The perfect evening for those wanting a dose of Halloween fun without all the frights. A Night of Jack, invites guest of all ages to meander through Calabasas’ King Gillette Ranch, where thousands of pumpkins will be elaborately displayed. Along with the festive art will be carving demonstrations, a gift shop, and the Fear Garden Bar for drinks and food to satisfy the living and undead.

More info

13 Spookiest Movies on Netflix for Oct. ’18

Grab your popcorn, comfort blanket, and sit tight. It’s the best time of the year to watch the spookiest flicks streaming right now. Whether your more on the Hocus Pocus(sidetone: no Hocus Pocus on Netflix–but it’s playing at El Capitan Theatre ALL of October) side or wish to take a chance with the cringeworthy, there are plenty of options to chose this fall.

 1. Hold the Dark

Hold the Dark
Hold the Dark

Hold the Dark will leave you with your fair share of chills, and not just because it’s set in Alaska. Jeremy Saulnier’s psychological thriller stars Westworld‘s Jeffrey Wright as a retired wolf expert who receives a disturbing letter from a grieving mother (Riley Keough), pleading with him to investigate the wolves that she thinks killed her son in their small Alaskan village. He agrees to go but soon finds himself tangled up in a web far more dangerous than he ever could have expected

2. Veronica

Veronica
Veronica

In Veronica, which is based on true events, a high-schooler decides to experiment with a Ouija board with some of her classmates but ends up getting followed home by an evil spirit. As her and her siblings’ sanity begins to crumble due to the haunting, you’ll find yourself questioning what’s actually real and what’s in Veronica’s imagination.

 3. Malevolent

Malevolent
Malevolent

A brother and sister earn a living by faking scary paranormal occurrences for cash, but when they’re tasked with investigating some strange phenomena at a supposedly haunted estate, things take a turn for the worse.

4. The Ravenous

Ravenous
Ravenous

This is actually a pretty introspective and beautiful movie, as far as films in the zombie genre go. That being said, watching a small group of desperate survivors attempt to navigate the aftermath of a zombie-like outbreak in rural Quebec is going to come with some nauseating moments.

5. The Conjuring

The Conjuring
The Conjuring

If you haven’t seen modern-day horror classic The Conjuring yet, I’m honestly a little jealous you get to experience the film’s excellent thrills and chills for the first time. It’s a superb entry into the genre, following a family of young women possessed by the demonic spirit of a murdered witch who used to live on their property and the paranormal investigators who set out to help them.

6. Children of the Corn

Children of the Corn
Children of the Corn

Even Stephen King’s short stories translate to terrifying, full-length pictures. Children of the Corn is about a group of murderous children, so expect to say goodbye to restful sleep for a bit.

7. The Haunting of Hill House

The Haunting of Hill House
The Haunting of Hill House

No, Netflix’s The Haunting of Hill House isn’t a movie. But I would be remiss if I didn’t include the upcoming 10-episode series, which is just as scary as any of the streaming giant’s selection of horror movies. Billed as a “reimagining” of Shirley Jackson’s iconic 1953 novel, the show follows five siblings who grew up in America’s most famous haunted house and how the home’s deadly secrets are still plaguing them decades later. Mike Flanagan (HushOculusGerald’s Game) is on board as director and executive producer, while the cast is led by Michiel Huisman, Carla Gugino, Timothy Hutton, Elizabeth Reaser, Kate Siegel, McKenna Grace, and more.

8. Apostle

Apostle
Apostle

Occult horror-thriller Apostle stars Beauty and the Beast‘s Dan Stevens as Thomas Richardson, who returns home to London in 1905, only to discover that his sister has been captured by a cult led by the dangerously charismatic Prophet Malcolm (Michael Sheen) and is being held for ransom. Thomas sets out to rescue his sister, infiltrating the cult’s island community and eventually uncovering an evil secret.

9. Hush

Hush
Hush

Easily one of the best horror movies to come out of Netflix’s original slate, 2016’s Hush follows a deaf writer over the course of one night as she’s hunted by a masked maniac. Prepare for multiple people getting shot by a crossbow — King Joffrey-style.

10. Train to Busan

Train to Busan
Train to Busan

This South Korean zombie movie was a box office hit, for good reason. The terrifyingly claustrophobic horror film centers on a father and daughter who must survive a gory outbreak of the undead on a lengthy train journey to the country’s only remaining safe city.

11. The Reaping

The Reaping
The Reaping

Hilary Swank stars as a former missionary who loses her faith after the tragic deaths of her family members and now makes a living debunking religious phenomena. That’s what brings her to the Louisiana swamp, where a series of biblical plagues are destroying a small town with evil at its center.

12. Chilling Adventures of Sabrina

The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina the Teenage Witch
The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina 

Netflix gives Sabrina the Teenage Witch a very, very creepy new makeover in Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, which sees the titular witch (Mad Men‘s Kiernan Shipka) on the cusp of celebrating her 16th birthday when she has to sign her soul away to the devil. The trailer evokes old-school horror movies like Rosemary’s Baby and The Exorcist, so even though familiar faces like Harvey Kinkle (Ross Lynch), Aunt Hilda (Lucy Davis), and Aunt Zelda (Miranda Otto) make appearances, this is going to be a totally different series than the one Melissa Joan Hart starred in years ago.

13. The Shining

The Shining
The Shining

A writer’s decision to spend the Winter at a deserted hotel with his wife and son majorly backfires when it becomes clear that they’re definitely not alone in the grand building — but they’re not accompanied by the living, either.

Enjoy the feature and beware!

Captions and content Curated by PopSugar, Simplified by us.

L.A. Eats 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 eats throughout L.A.

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

Republique
Republique

République

Having likely made your dinner hot spot list, be advised that Republique is serving a breakfast worth taking note. Republique is said to be the former home of Golden Era Comedian Charlie Chaplin. Brimming with rustic chicness and delectable eats, the french eatery superbly succeeds. From their outstanding example of French toast to poached egg-topped kimchi fried rice, whats not to j’adore.

"<yoastmark

Breakfast by Salts Cure

Breakfast by Salt’s Cure paints a story of unsupervised adolescent cooking turned career solidified by the success of its Chef and star Chris Phelps. Chef Phelps opened Breakfast as an homage to his already famous Griddle Cakes, a family recipe that serves as the highlight of the menu. Meant to offer diners the simplicity of building their own breakfast, nothing could be more perfect to start your day. Indulge in their Chocolate Chip Griddle cake made with 60.5% TCHO DARK COUVERTURE. And no worries if your in a hurry, the fast-paced  eatery is bustling, with enough time for you to make it to that 9am meeting your already dreading.

Lunch, Brunch, 2nd Breakfast!

1 Pico

Find yourself seaside or merely wish for a bit of ocean breeze to start your day? 1 Pico is idyllic. Forbes recommended and located in Shutter’s on the Beach, a Cape Code style hotel brimming with nautical charm.  Most noteworthy is the setting. Guest are treated to quintessential california cuisine while sitting within view of the nearby ocean. Try the Wagyu Burger sandwiched between a brioche bun, Caramelized onion, tomato, and truffled cheese. On the lighter side is their refreshing Watermelon Salad or Grilled Branzino. No matter, your midday preference, nothing’s more perfect than an afternoon at the beach.

Brunch @ Ocean Prime
Brunch @ Ocean Prime

Ocean Prime

New to the L.A. brunch scene, Ocean Prime unveiled over the weekend a menu worth savoring for. Located at the perfect corner spot within the Golden Triangle, the restaurant is already most notable for their seafood selection. Combing that with brunch time classics proves to be quite the culinary success. Start off with Bottomless Blood Orange Mimosas and indulge in the Chef’s Omelette selection of the day paired with crispy arugula salad and fresh fruits. Or try The Lobster & Avocado Toast, Butter Poached with a Sunny Side Egg, Sweet Pea Avocado Spread, Preserved Lemon & Arugula Salad. 

“Whats for dinner?”

Barbette

New to the already bustling West Hollywood restaurant scene, Barbette is a bonded star. A mixture of regionally sourced ingredients and delicacy of Southern France cuisine, Barbette delivers a magnificent dining experience. Having began his career at the Michelin starred Spotted Pig, in NYC, Executive Chef Robert Flaherty shines. The Moules Mariniere is the perfect course to pair with their signature Barbette Sourdough. Or opt for the classic french entree, Steak Frites drizzled in chimichurri sauce. If you leave room for dessert the Buttermilk Panna Cota is a perfect ending to your Parisian fete.

71 Above

Offering unparalleled views 950 feet from the ground, DTLA’s 71 Above is a highflying hit near Pershing Square. Chef Vartan Abgaryan‘s take on modern American cuisine is served in three unique dining settings. Chose between the buzzing bar, lively main dining area, or chefs table with front row view to the culinary action. After taking your seat, indulge in their three course menu with offerings that include a tantalizing Fois Gras or spiced Diver Scallops. Take your night and taste buds to new heights.

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…”

Brioche French Toast @ Squirl L.A.
Brioche French Toast @ Squirl L.A.

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.

Breakfast @ Petit Trois
Breakfast @ Petit Trois

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!

Baroo Los Angeles
Baroo Los Angeles

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.

Brunch @ Animal
Brunch @ Animal

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?”

Scratch Bar & Kitchen
Scratch Bar & Kitchen

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
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.

 

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

Otoño
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

Connie and Ted's
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

Gesso
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

Spartina
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

Sotto
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

Native Santa Monica
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

 

 

Where To Eat Fried Chicken In LA

Fried chicken is having its moment in Los Angeles. New joints dedicated to battered, deep-fried versions of the bird seem like they’re springing up all over the place. Although the practice of breading fowl and submerging it in hot oil might have come from the Scots, the dish became an American tradition when African slaves incorporated spices like paprika and chili pepper into the process. Chefs with Japanese, Singaporean, Korean, Indian and other culinary backgrounds have put their spin on the dish, turning a staple of Southern plantations into a multicultural culinary exchange.

The beauty lies in the differences between every method. Even Johnny Ray Zone, the chef-owner of Howlin’ Rays, the hottest (literally and metaphorically) fried chicken restaurant in town, has trouble ranking them. “Every bird and every chicken shack does things differently,” he says. “It’s hard for me to say one is better. It’s all a celebration of fried bird.” Fortunately, we’ve got our pick. From SoCal classics to nouveau options, they could only come together in a place like L.A.

A diner eats at Tokyo Fried Chicken Co. (Photo by Jennifer Chong for Tokyo Fried Chicken Co.)

Tokyo Fried Chicken Co.
In a green, Monterey Park strip mall with a faux-Chinese glazed tile roof, you’ll find Tokyo Fried Chicken’s flavorful hybrid of Japanese karaage and Southern fried chicken. Each bird is marinated overnight in soy, garlic and ginger before it’s dredged, fried to a delicate crisp in rice bran oil then dusted with the house seasoning. Prepare to feast with a plastic glove on one hand and chopsticks in the other — it’s just what you do here. Sweet, spicy ponzu sauce (in adorable honey bear bottles) makes a great dipping sauce. Curry creamed corn, tempura-battered potato chips and fried brussels sprouts with goat cheese round out the meal.
122 S. Atlantic Blvd., Monterey Park. 626-282-9829.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BXozQZWniVY/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_control

Honey’s Kettle
Vincent William offers casual Southern comfort at Honey’s Kettle, a Culver City staple since 2005. Fried in peanut oil, his technique produces drumsticks, wings and thighs with a supremely crunchy exterior and supple meat. Hot sauce and, of course, honey are available for drizzling and dipping. The buttery biscuits are a must. They’re so good, you can buy the batter and bake them at home.
9537 Culver Blvd., Culver City. 310-202-5453.

A meal of fried chicken, macaroni and cheese and collard greens at Gus’s Fried Chicken. (Photo via Gus’s Fried Chicken/Facebook)

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
A top contender for Best Memphis Import To Los Angeles, Gus’s chicken has just enough cayenne to pack a tingle in every bite. The golden breading is the perfect thickness and the birds are always succulent. Plus, the prices are great and there’s no wait time to get seated — something that almost never happens at the non-L.A. locations. Fried okra is the only standout side. That’s fine because it leaves room for a slice of the fine chess pie.
1262 Crenshaw Blvd., Los Angeles. 323-402-0232.
509 S Glenoaks Blvd., Burbank. 747-231-3990.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bm1ZLZFlHbZ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_control

Howlin’ Rays
It’s hard to know what Howlin’ Rays is more famous for: Their insanely long lines or their insanely delicious fried chicken. This is one of the very few places where the former is worth the latter. (Stay abreast of the wait times via Twitter.) That’s because they serve the best version of Nashville hot chicken in Los Angeles. Heed the descriptions of their six levels of heat. The hottest, Howlin’, comes with a pair of rubber gloves to prevent the spices from seeping into your skin. The chicken isn’t just hot, it’s damn tasty with the perfect, just-oily-enough crunch protecting the ultra juicy, brined flesh. No matter the level of heat, don’t accidentally rub your eyes or spread any of that garlicky, peppery seasoning on your extremities because the only place where it hurts so good is your mouth.
727 N. Broadway #128, Chinatown. 213-935-8399.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BFrT7NvQDw9/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_control

Jim Dandy Fried Chicken
The birds at Jim Dandy’s are beyond crisp and and served from behind a bulletproof glass window — and they’re absolutely worth it. Each bite into a crisp, spicy piece reveals tender insides with a no-nonsense flavor. No secret brine or hyped up batter here. Just simple, flavorful fried chicken. We recommend the spicy, which is manageable, and a side of fried corn fritters dusted in powdered sugar. Make sure you bring cash to this stand, one of the last two remnants of a popular 1970s chain.
11328 Vermont Ave., Westmont. 323-779-5567.

The Prince
It’s easy to see why this vintage bar, with its circular, red leather booths and fading glamour, still attracts crowds. Located in the base of a Tudor Revival-style apartment building in Koreatown,The Prince has been around since the 1920s, when it was a French restaurant. You might’ve seen it as a backdrop in Mad Men, Chinatown, Thank You For Smoking or a number of other productions. It’s also home to Heo Ja-hwa’s twice-fried, salt-and-pepper seasoned chicken. Juicy on the inside and with a heat that expands the more you eat it, the chicken comes with coleslaw, pickled radish and hot sauce. Order a plate of kimchi fried rice or dukbokki (spicy rice cakes) to go with it. Half-price drinks during happy hour (from 4 to 8 p.m.) are the perfect liquid pairing.
3198 7th St., Koreatown. 213-389-1586.

Chicken karaage at Karayama. (Photo courtesy of Karayama)

Karayama
The Japanese chain has more than 50 outposts around Asia but the first United States location just landed, in Little Tokyo, two weeks ago. That’s a reason to celebrate. Why? Chicken karaage, those nuggets of fried, boneless glory. The menu offers distractions, like the chicken sandwich, but it’s all about the karaage at Karayama. You can thank the secret, fermented marinade and potato starch batter for the flavor and texture. If you don’t want it straight, try a donburi bowl with egg, onion and a light soy broth. Dipping options include goku-dare with garlic and sesame, sweet and salty shio-goku-dare, wasabi mayo, sweet chili and a red hot sauce.
136 S. Central Ave., downtown L.A. 213-265-7358.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bm_JMKpBbLo/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_control

Lucky Bird
Chef-owner Chris Dane, a Providence and Connie & Ted’s alumn, has opened a small, 12-seat fried chicken stand in Grand Central Market. The outside layer of his fried bird is fluffy yet crunchy, giving way to a tender, citrus-brined center. Saddle up with savory sweet and sour coleslaw, fried chicken skins and buttermilk biscuits served with whipped honey butter. The best way to start a meal at Lucky Bird? Order one of the craft beers on tap.
317 S. Broadway, downtown L.A.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BnCBnxyl0vf/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_control

The Crack Shack
Westfield Mall in Century City just welcomed the fourth location of chef Richard Blais’s San Diego fried chicken chain. The menu features no less than eight fried chicken sandwiches as well as five and ten-piece chicken dinners, for the purists. The chicken, always Jidori, yields succulent meat with a crunchy coating. The twist comes courtesy of eight dippers including Baja hot sauce and curry mustard. Craft beer taps and a lots of patio space make this a great gathering spot for groups. Another Crack Shack will opens this fall, in Pasadena.
10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Century City. 424-320-0046.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmCLyYOADM-/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_control

A.O.C.
Suzanne Goin has effectively made her Spanish fried chicken an L.A. icon, which is no small feat — but neither is a 16-year run of successful restaurants. Dusted with aleppo pepper, paprika, coriander and cumin, her garlic-marinated masterpieces are available for brunches, power lunches and candle-lit dinners on A.O.C’s patio. Romesco aioli adds a creamy touch and a bit more spice to the butter-basted fried chicken, which is served on a cast iron skillet. Pair it with one of the restaurants wines, chosen by Caroline Styne, for a perfect meal.
8700 W. 3rd St., Mid-City West. 310-859-9859.


Article courtesy of LAist.