Economic update for the month ending September 30, 2018

Economic update for the month ending September 30, 2018

U.S. Economy adds 134,000 new jobs in September – Unemployment rate dropped to the lowest level since 1969:

U.S. Department of Labor
U.S. Department of Labor

The Department of Labor Statistics reported that U. S. employers added 134,000 new jobs in September. That was below the 185,000 that analysts had estimated, yet even though job creation fell to its lowest level in a year the unemployment rate dropped to its lowest level in 49 years. The national unemployment rate in September was 3.7%, down from 3.9% in August. Average hourly wages rose 2.8% year over year from last September. That was slightly lower than last month when average hourly wages increased 2.9% from last August.

California employers add 44,800 new jobs in August:

The California Employment Development Department reported that 44,800 new jobs were added in August. The unemployment rate held steady at a record low of 4.2%, down from 4.6% last August. Average hourly wages  grew 3.1% year over year, their largest year over year increase since last October. Los Angeles and Orange County average hourly earnings grew 5.4% from last August. 

 Stock Market Update:

NYSE-NEW YORK, NY

The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the month at 26,458.31, down from 25,964.62 last month. It is up 7% year to date. The S&P 500 closed the month at 2,913.98, down from 2,901.52 on August 31 It’s up 9% year to date. The NASDAQ closed the month at 8,046.35, down from 8,109.54 last month. It’s up 16% year to date.

Treasury Bond Yields rise: 

The 10-year treasury bond closed the month yielding 3.05%, up from 2.86% on August 31, 2018. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the month at 3.19%, up from 3.02% at the end of August.

Mortgage rates higher in September: 

The September 27, 2018 Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 4.72%, up from 4.52% on August 30, 2018. The 15-year fixed was 4.16%, up  from 3.97% in August 30. The 5-year ARM was 3.97%, up from 3.85% last month.

Consumer Confidence at highest level hits 18 year high in September:

The U.S. Consumer Confidence Index hit its highest level since 2000 this week according to data from the Conference Board’s September survey.

New home sales rebound in August:

The Commerce Department reported that sales of new homes increased 3.6% in August from July on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Year over year the number of new homes sold in August increased 12.7% from August 2017. The median price paid for a new home increased 1.9% from one year ago.

California existing home sales numbers drop in August – Prices continue to rise:

The California Association of Realtors reported this week that the number of existing home sales dropped in August to a seasonally adjusted annualized rate of 399,600. It was the fourth straight month of sales declines and the first time in over two years that the number of existing home sales dropped below the benchmark 400,000 level. The median price of a home in California rose to $596,410, up 6.6% from August 2017. On a regional basis the Los Angeles County median price rose 6.4%, Orange County rose 6,3%, and Ventura County rose 3.1% from last August. Housing inventory levels rose 17.2% from one year ago, the fifth straight month of housing supply increases. The unsold inventory index in August was a 3.3 month supply of homes listed for sale, up from 2.9 months in August 2017.

U.S. existing home sales:

The National Association of Realtors reported that total existing home sales equaled 5.34 million on a seasonally annualized rate, down 1.5% from August 2017. The nation wide median price grew 4.6% in August compared to one year ago marking the 78th straight month of year over year increases in the median price. Total housing inventory also increased. There was a 4.3 month supply of active listings in August, up from a 4.1 month supply in August 2017.

Have a great week!

-Syd

Weekend Events: Oct.5th-7th

Warner Bros' Horror Made Here Studio Tour

Do you smell that in the air? Pumpkin season has officially begun. So throw together your witches brew, dig out your favorite fall sweater and take part in all things October kicking off this weekend with a howl.

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. 5th-7th feature Warner Brothers Festival of Frights to Veuve Clicquots annual Polo Match. Read below for a breakdown of the weekend events.

Friday Oct. 5th, 2018

Warner Bro’ Horror Made Here: A Festival of Frights

Warner Bros' Horror Made Here Studio Tour
Warner Bros’ Horror Made Here Studio Tour

Location: Warner Bro. Studios–6510 Forrest LAwn Drive, Los Angles

The WB’s famed backlot studio tour goes for full frights as they transform into  haunting square. Brave through a maze inspired by The Conjuring or attempt to tour Freddy vs. Jason’s Camp Crystal Lake and Batman’s Arkham Asylum. Other highlights include horror makeup demos, ephemera from Tim Burton films, and a special screening of select scenes from 1973’s The Exorcist.  If your feeling parched, True Blood’s Fangtasia will be serving for all the visiting vamps. And if you happened to miss last years scariest haunted attraction. the IT haunted house returns as a pop-up for the fest.

More info

Adult Swim Festival

Adult Swim Festival
Adult Swim Festival

Location: Row DTLA

Let your inner kid out out this weekend for Cartoon Networks “Adult Swim” Festival. Taking place over three days at the Row DTLA, the schedule features acts from Thudercat, Zola Jesus, Hannibal Buress and Nick Rutherford.  Along with a variety of games, food, drinks, and previews of upcoming shows-Friday is giving a preview of the weekends events before it goes into full swing Saturday and Sunday. With music, comedy, and so much more, it’s the perfect way to jumpstart your weekend. For more info click here.

Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch

Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch
Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch

Location: 10100 Jefferson Boulevard, Culver City

Make your way to Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch Opening Ceremony! This family-friendly pumpkin patch-slash-amusement park has been an LA staple for over three decades, not just for great jack-o’-lantern materials, but for bounce houses, straw mazes, and petting zoos. Naturally, it’s open through Halloween proper, and if you have family in town it’s a great place to take them — Mr. Bones is notorious for celeb sightings, too. For more info click here.

Saturday Oct. 6th, 2018

Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic

Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic at Will Rogers State Historic Park
Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic at Will Rogers State Historic Park

Location: Will Roger’s State Park, Pacific Palisades

Pick out the perfect wide-brimmed hat and your daytime finest because Veuve Clicquot returns to Will Rogers State Park. Led by Argentine polo star Nacho Figures, the annual match is a day well spent of sips and sites. The celeb-filled soiree with the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow, Mandy Moore, and Lea Michele kicks off with Champagne bars and Food Trucks at 11am. After you’ve fueled up head to the field to cheer on the teams in the 2pm game. Tickets are sold out on the Veuve site but still available on StubHub.com. For more info click here.

Hammer Museum: Fall Exhibits Opening Ceremony

Hammer Museum
Hammer Museum

Location: Hammer Museum, Westwood

Usher in the opening of the Hammer Museum’s fall exhibitions. “Adrian Piper: Concepts and Intuitions, 1965-2016” and “Stones to Stains: The Drawings of Victor Hugo,” opens in the Westwood museum this Saturday. The exhibition includes a free party in the museum’s courtyard, featuring a cash bar, DJ sets and food trucks. Have a little fun and culture yourself! For more info click here.

Street Food Cinema Presents: Beetlejuice in Victory Park

Beetlejuice 30th Anniversary Screening
Beetlejuice 30th Anniversary Screening

BEETLEJUICE! BEETLEJUICE! BEETLEJUICE! Don’t miss out ton the 30th Anniversary screening of Beetlejuice in Pasadena’s Victory Park. Bring your blankets, chairs, dogs, children, cousins, and make your way to one of L.A.’s favorite outdoor cinema events. Street Food Cinema will also be renting out chairs for those not wanting to BYOS(Bring your own seats). With live music kicking off the night and food trucks on standby, there’s no better way to take in the night under the stars. Tickets vary in price and more information can be found by clicking here.

Sunday Oct. 7th, 2018

COAST Open Streets Festival

Santa Monica COAST Festival
Santa Monica COAST Festival

Location: Main Street & Ocean Ave, Santa Monica

Explore the city of Santa Monica as this third annual event transforms two miles of streets into a festival for the day. Arrive by bike, bus, train, or walk your way to this free day of fun alongside stilt walkers, DJs, and local bands. Feel the seaside breeze while exploring interactive COAST Zones celebrating arts, culture, sustainability as well as other attractions along the route. Taking place on Main Street and Ocean Ave. For more info click here.

Twilight on the Pier: Finale Concert

Twilight on the Pier-Santa Monica
Twilight on the Pier-Santa Monica

Spend the finale of your weekend at Twilight on the Pier’s final performance. In its 34th year, this outdoor music concert in Santa Monica’s famous seaside spot is an evening adventure. Complete with immersive art, food offerings, a beer and spirits garden, games and interactive activations all along the Pier promenade. For more information click here.

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.

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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.

Tis the season for…October in L.A.

Halloween Horror Nights @ Universal Studios

Bust out your spookiest get-up, strew the lawn with spider webs, and gather your ghouls. October is kicking off with Halloween spirit in full gear. While Starbucks started early on fall with the return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte(PSL fanatics rejoice!), we’re rounding up the best of the best for October 2018. From Horror Nights to Veuve Clicqout’s Polo Classic, theres something for everyone, Wizards and Muggles alike.

Read below for the best fall activities happening in and around L.A.

 

Halloween Horror Nights

Halloween Horror Nights @ Universal Studios
Halloween Horror Nights @ Universal Studios

Date: Now through Nov 03, 2018.

Location: Universal Studios, Universal City

Face your fears at Universal Studios annual Halloween fest. With eight mazes, a scare zone and the ominous The Purge themed “Terror Tram”, all guaranteed to spook. Previous cinematic tie-ins to the parks frightening guest include The Walking Dead, The Shining, and American Horror Story.  Visit if you dare, the haunting horror begins nightly at:

More info

San Gabriel Dumpling & Beer Fest

San Gabriel Dumpling & Beer Fest
San Gabriel Dumpling & Beer Fest

Date: Oct 04, 2018

Location: San Gabriel Valley

Instead of binging early on Halloween candy(an acceptable past time), why not opt for eats from the far east at the annual San Gabriel Dumpling & Beer Fest! Entry gets you unlimited beer from 6-10p with an assortment of dumpling and food truck vendors on hand. Tickets are available for purchase through Eventbrite.

More info

Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic

Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic at Will Rogers State Historic Park
Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic at Will Rogers State Historic Park

Date: Oct 06, 2018

Location: Will Roger’s State Park, Pacific Palisades

Pick out the perfect wide-brimmed hat and your daytime finest because Veuve Clicquot returns to Will Rogers State Park. Led by Argentine polo star Nacho Figures, the annual match is a day well spent of sips and sites. The celeb-filled soiree with the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow, Mandy Moore, and Lea Michele kicks off with Champagne bars and Food Trucks at 11am. After you’ve fueled up head to the field to cheer on the teams in the 2pm game. Tickets are sold out on the Veuve site but still available on StubHub.com.

More info

COAST Open Streets Festival

Santa Monica COAST Festival
Santa Monica COAST Festival

Date: Oct 07, 2018

Location: Main Street & Ocean Ave, Santa Monica

Explore the city of Santa Monica as this third annual event transforms two miles of streets into a festival for the day. Arrive by bike, bus, train, or walk your way to this free day of fun alongside stilt walkers, DJs, and local bands. Feel the seaside breeze while exploring interactive COAST Zones celebrating arts, culture, sustainability as well as other attractions along the route. Taking place on Main Street and Ocean Ave.

More info

Theatre Macabre

Theatre Macabre
Theatre Macabre

Date: Oct 04-Nov 04, 2018

Location: Secret Location in L.A.

From the minds behind The Tension Experience is a new interactive show that takes inspiration from the grisly theatre of Pars’ Grand Guigmol. Choose between taking in the obscure and strange on stage or embarking on a frightful mission with various ghouls. The show itself runs two hours and admission includes adult beverages.

More info

Warner Bro’ Horror Made Here: A Festival of Frights

Warner Bros' Horror Made Here Studio Tour
Warner Bros’ Horror Made Here Studio Tour

Date: Oct 5-27, 2018

Location: Warner Bro. Studios–6510 Forrest LAwn Drive, Los Angles

The WB’s famed backlot studio tour goes for full frights as they transform into  haunting square. Brave through a maze inspired by The Conjuring or attempt to tour Freddy vs. Jason’s Camp Crystal Lake and Batman’s Arkham Asylum. Other highlights include horror makeup demos, ephemera from Tim Burton films, and a special screening of select scenes from 1973’s The Exorcist.  If your feeling parched, True Blood’s Fangtasia will be serving for all the visiting vamps. And if you happened to miss last years scariest haunted attraction. the IT haunted house returns as a pop-up for the fest.

More info

Night of Jack

Night of Jack
Night of Jack

Date: Oct 11-Nov 4, 2018

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

Pumpkin Nights

Pumpkin Nights-Pomona, CA
Pumpkin Nights-Pomona, CA

Date: Oct 12-Nov 4, 2018

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.

More info

Young Frankenstein-Cinespia Screening

Cinespia @ Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Cinespia @ Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Date: Oct 13, 2018

Location: Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Hollywood

There’s nothing more chilling then a cool night in the fall on the lawn of L.A.’s most famous cemetery. As part of Hollywood Forever Cemetery’s film series-Young Frankenstein will be screening on Oct. 13th with the gates opening at 5:15pm. Arrive early to stake your claim on your plot in the grass as you take in a Tinsletown classic under these stars.

More info

Drunken Devil: Bacchanalia

Drunken Devil-Halloween Soiree
Drunken Devil-Halloween Soiree

Date: Oct 13, 2018

Location: Secret Location in Los Angles

Take a trip to ancient Rome at this Horror themed soiree inspired by the scandalous legacy of Caligula. Members of the depraved emperor’s court interact with guest as they peruse through the all inclusive one-night event. With an open bar and entertainment that includes DJs, burlesque, and magicians it is sure to be an evening to remember. Lavish attire is encouraged but skip the Toga as your outfit of choice.

More info

CraftoberFest LA

Craftoberfest
Craftoberfest

Date: Oct 16, 2018

Location: The Rose Bowl, Pasadena

Experience L.A.’s  version of the famous German event centered around craft beer! Carefully curated to include over 30 different Southern California breweries. Craftoberfest is an all-you-can-drink celebration that invites participants to discover a brand new world of food and drink choices! Selected restaurants will also be available serving world-class food inspired by “Volksfest,” a German beer festival.

More info

Dear Evan Hansen

Dear Evan Hansen at The Ahmanson Theatre
Dear Evan Hansen at The Ahmanson Theatre

Date: Oct 17-Nov 25, 2018

Location: Ahmanson Theatre, DTLA

The Broadway show everyone’s been talking about finally debuts in L.A. at the Ahmanson Theatre! In this captivating original musical, high school student Evan Hansen is thrust into social relevance after a classmate’s suicide. Benj Pasek and Justin all’s score combine well-crafted lyrics and an exciting pop sound, and Steven Levenson’s book gives all the characters shaded motives.

More info

What Happened When

What Happened When Presented by the Echo Theatre Co.
What Happened When Presented by the Echo Theatre Co.

Date:  Now through Oct 18, 2018

Location: Atwater Village

It was a dark and stormy night for three siblings—and for audience members gathered around them. Written by Rattlestick Playwright Theater’s Daniel Talbott, this peace is described as part ghost story, part memory play.

More info 

Front Porch Cinema Presents: The Addams Family 

The Addams Family @ Front Porch Cinema
The Addams Family @ Front Porch Cinema

Date: Oct 20, 2018

Location: Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica

They’re creepy and they’re kooky, Mysterious and spooky, They’re altogether ooky, The Addams Family! Now that that’s stuck in your head make your way to the Santa Monica Pier enjoy this film classic under the stars and with the ocean as a backdrop. The event will allow guests to relax on the Pier, with access to all the fun amenities.  This is including rides, games, food and more! So grab put on your best Wednesday or Cousin It attire and head to the pier for the ultimate movie night. Just don’t invite Debbie!

More info

Disco Dining Club’s The Flowering of the Strange Orchids

The Flowering of Strange Orchid Presented by Disco Dining Club
The Flowering of Strange Orchid Presented by Disco Dining Club

Date: Oct 26, 27, & 28, 2018

Location: Private residence in Pico-Union

“Botanical horror’ and man-eating plants are at the center of this elevated Halloween dinner party. The lofty price tag pf $300 will provide you with a tantalizing 5 course meal from Chef Laurent Quenioux, cocktail pairings and wine, coffee and tea service, desserts, and optional edible bug pairings by Bugible. Lavish set design by The Grim Weather will sprawl indoors and outdoors of the secret location,. This will be complimented by theatrical activations, puppets, live music and dance performances throughout the evening. Your favorite holiday…exaggerated with all the opulence, grandeur and hedonism of any Disco Dining Club soiree.

More info

Pageant of the Monsters

Pageant of the Monsters-Laguna Beach, CA
Pageant of the Monsters-Laguna Beach, CA

Date: Oct 26, 27, 28, 31, 2018

Location: 650 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach

Patrons of Pageant of the Master’s will know this live performance as artwork coming to life. Pageant of the Monsters is the ghoulish re-enactment of notable tableaus that awakens from their slumber every 5 years. This year’s theme is “Raiders of the Lost Art”. The fest includes a haunted house, Halloween arts and craft, and activities for children. The haunted house is suitable for even the tiniest of terrors, sans gore and recommended for children 5 and older. Food and non-alcoholic berates will be available for purchase.

More info

Halloween Organ & Film: Nosferatu

LA Phil presents Nosferatu
LA Phil presents Nosferatu

Date: Oct 31, 2018

Location: Walt Disney Concert Hall, DTLA

Prior to era of Twilight and True Blood, where vampires looked like Alexander Skarsgard and dressed in fine fashions, film director F.W. Mrnau created the classic expressionist retelling of every kid’s favorite fireside tale. Settle into Walt Disney Concert Hall for a screening and live score of the film from organist Clark Wilson on Halloween night.

More info

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.

 

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.

L.A. Film Fest
L.A. Film Fest
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
Valley Urban Market
Valley Urban Market
  • 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
    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
    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.