Jessica Felix reps Queer Eye’s Karamo Brown for new Woodland Hills abode

Jessica Felix was the buying agent for TV Personality and culture expert Karamo Brown and his new Woodland Hills home.

 

The listing featured in last week’s LA Times Hot Property was recently purchased by Karamo for $1.24 Million. Described in the article as a “blank canvas”, the 1966 contemporary will likely receive an “infusion of style” from the TV Star.

The five bedroom and three-bathroom house was recently remodeled and provides 2,622 square feet of white-walled interiors. The living room includes a stunning concrete fireplace and the master suite features a walk-in closet and a barn style door that opens to a dual-sink bathroom.

The backyard provides another area of fresh flair, coming equipped with a swimming pool, spa, deck space and gazebo.

Prior to becoming a fixture of the pop-culture remake, Karamo worked as a producer for the Oprah Winfrey Network and a contributor to “Access Hollywood” as well as other hosting gigs.

 

To read the full Los Angeles Times Hot Property Article click here

 

To view Jessica Feliz’s current listings click here.

Out and About: Spring Bloom in SoCal

If you don’t know from the crazy amount of butterflies migrating through the city last week, spring is in bloom. With such is the arrival of California’s Wild Flowers. A site to see for those visiting the sunnier side of Cali, the wild flowers are experiencing a Super-Bloom this year.  An event not to be missed as this only occurs every 10-15 years. If you’re looking for the best way to really ring in the floral season, we have the City-Guide for you. Get some instagram-able photos and spend some time Out and About with Spring in SoCal.

From Arcata to San Diego the state flower is in full bloom and so is our guide of where to find them.

Death Valley National Park

Here is where you will find the full super bloom experience. The Mojave Desert is home to the wildflower event, although this years scarce rains did not result in its usual bloom, it’s still a sight to see.

Joshua Tree National Park

While in Death Valley, you can make your way to Joshua Tree which happens to be part of the Mojave. Blooms have already started here near the park’s south entrance and are expected to last longer thanks to cool temperatures.

Channel Islands National Park

These five islands that make up the park 25 miles off the coast of Santa Barbara coastline have a bounty of unique wildflower offerings. On Anacapa, Santa Barbara, and San Miguel islands, yellow coreopsis began blooming in January and will last through the month. The flowers are endemic to the Channel Islands but only found now on Santa Rosa Island.

Figueroa Mountain Recreation Area

In late March, the flanks of this summit (50 miles northwest of Santa Barbara) and nearby Grass Mountain begin bursting with a range of wildflowers. Hyacinth, shooting stars, buttercups, milkmaids, Johnny-jump-ups and poppies are just a few of the many flowers found here.

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve

At this nearly 1,800-acre reserve about 75 miles north of Los Angeles, are rolling hills blanketed in poppies. The season for these hillside foliage’s begins in April, lasting through early May. While the poppies are the showstopper here, keep your eye out for other wildflowers like California Aster and blue lupine. Since this area received several more inches of rain then usual in 2019, a super bloom is expected here too.

Pinnacles National Park

Around 8-miles south of San Jose is Pinnacles National Park. The wildflowers here can be seen in March, showing most in May. Depending on rainfall and temperature one would find a mix of milkmaids, shooting stars bush poppies and orchids.

Leslie Kavanaugh list home in Malibu’s coveted Point Dume

Rodeo Realty’s Leslie Kavanaugh has acquired the listing for an extraordinary property in Malibu’s most desirable neighborhood–Point Dume.

The estate is offered at $8,888,888 and has received an influx of media coverage in various publications. The estate is located steps away from one of Malibu’s most pristine beaches. It is truly an exceptional opportunity to reside in the coveted Point Dume neighborhood.

Fox 34 News has named the listing “one of Malibu’s Best Homes” on the market right now.

6950 Point Dume Drive sits on over one acre of land with Smart Home technology. It comes equipped with all the entertainment necessities one could ever need.

From a 10-seat theatre to it’s woodwork office, private gym and swimming pall, this estate has it all. Designed by renowned architect Douglas Burdge, this stunning abode is a seaside dream!

More about Leslie Kavanaugh:

A native Californian, Leslie Kavanaugh began her real estate career in 1979. A top-producing agent, Leslie specializes in the Westside communities of Bel Air, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Malibu and Beverly Hills.
She has received both the California 100 and the Circle of Distinction awards, President’s Elite Circle and National President’s Circle in recognition of her sales record and extensive experience, having served as a sales associate, estates director, marketing director and training director as well as in management for several major real estate firms.
Leslie has personally represented more than 200 estate sales in the Los Angeles, Beverly Hills and Malibu area, and Rodeo Realty is very proud to welcome her to our Beverly Hills office.

For more information on this listing. 

Fun things to do in LA this March

There’s more to this month then March Madness. With so many fun activities in LA we thought you might need more then the weekend round-up. Read below for a collection of events happening throughout  the month and discover your inner Angeleno!

The Other Art Fair is Coming to Downtown L.A. (March 28-31)

The Other Art Fair Los Angeles returns to Magic Box at The Reef. The Fair takes place March 28-31 for the 3rd edition of its independent artist showcase. See a curated selection of over 140 independent artists and check out thousands of pieces for every budget in one space.  -> More information

The Torrance Cherry Blossom Cultural Festival (March 31)

The Torrance Cherry Blossom Cultural Festival comes to Columbia Park on March 31 for a unique blend of cultural performances with a fun variety of crafts by local artisans, centered around the blooming cherry blossom. -> More information

LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes Celebrates César Chávez Day (March 31)

This free celebration features a guest speaker from the Cesar Chavez Foundation, Xipe Totec Aztec dancers, live music by Lorenzo and the Carnales, plus art, garden, and culinary workshops -> More information

Courtesy of: WeLikeLA

Home Security Tips and Tricks

Your home is your sanctuary. It is a place where fond memories are made and relaxing evenings are spent after a busy day. Your home is a safe haven where you and your family most feel at ease. If your home is under-protected this may compromise the security you feel in your own home.

Using a few simple home security tips and tricks, you can protect your belongings, thwart would-be thieves and increase your feeling of security while home and away.

Prevention begins outside your home from the minute it comes into view. Take a walk around your property with a critical eye to see what changes it needs.

Consider these tips to help keep you and your family, and your possessions, safe and secure:

Icon of fenced yard.

  • Landscape with safety in mind. As you walk around your property, look for areas that could be potential hiding spots for thieves, who prize the privacy they provide. Try and clear away any overgrown areas.

Icon of shield.

  • Talk with your local police department. It can offer insight on past break-in trends in your area.

Icon of home with shrubs out front.

  • Get to know your neighbors. Take the time to meet and engage with people on your street and encourage them to watch out for any suspicious activity when you’re not home.

  • Lighting matters. Lighting can set the right ambiance inside your home, but outdoor lighting can be the difference between your home being targeted – or not – by thieves. Motion-sensitive fixtures can help add security and provide light when needed.Also consider using automatic timers or smart lightbulbs that can be controlled remotely to turn lights on and off in various parts of the house to help make it seem like you are home.

  • Avoid advertising that shopping spree. Thieves look for and steal newly delivered boxes on your front porch, a method called porch pirating, so consider having them delivered elsewhere or requiring a signature for delivery. Thieves may also look at clues provided by your trash or recycling, which may indicate the new computer or flat-screen television inside.

Icon of padlock.

  • Set a safety routine. Make sure you establish a routine where you regularly lock all doors, shut windows and turn on your alarm system every time you leave your home. Avoid leaving spare keys outside, under a planter or under a welcome mat, as thieves know most of the potential hiding places.

  • Manage visibility. Make sure you can see who is at your front door without opening it. Avoid placing valuables where they will be visible from the street, and do not place your home alarm panel in a place where people can see you arming it from the outside.

  • Protect your outdoor valuables. Burglars also target sheds, garages and other outdoor buildings. Secure your grill, lawn mower, bicycles and other outdoor gear.

Icon of watchful eye.

  • Create a plan for when you are away. Hold your mail, stop your papers and ask a friend or neighbor to remove flyers from your property. Arrange for snow removal and lawn mowing so you do not advertise when you are away from home.

  • Install a home alarm system: While an alarm may not keep burglars from getting inside your home, it will deter some and bring the police to your home quickly, limiting what a thief is able to take. Home security systems will only work if you always remember to engage the alarm. You should have your alarm engaged while you are away or while you are at home as many thieves will attempt to break into one part of your home while you are busy in another. Also, some insurance companies may lower your home insurance premiums for having a home alarm system installed.

Icon of broken glass.

  • Take precautions to protect windows: If you are purchasing new windows for your home, it might be worth the upgrade to buy shatterproof glass. This would prevent anyone from breaking a window to gain access to your home. If new windows aren’t in the budget, consider adding a security film to windows. This will prevent the glass from shattering upon breaking and may deter thieves from continuing their attempt to break in.

Icon of open sliding glass door.

  •  Secure sliding glass doors: Sliding glass doors have incredibly flimsy locks. A thief can easily pop them in an instant, giving quick access to your home. Installing a security bar for sliding doors would make gaining access to your home more difficult. This measure of protection is a must-have for all sliding doors and windows.

Icon of key.

  • Change the locks as necessary: If you’ve just purchased a home from someone, your first order of business should be to meet the locksmith at your new home. You have no idea who is out there with a key just waiting for the moment to use it. In addition, if you’ve had a breakup recently, it is time to change the locks. The person may give you the key back, but you have no idea how many copies are out there. Having the locks changed is good for the peace of mind.

Keeping your family, your belongings and your home safe and secure does not involve a lot of money. A few simple changes such as the home security tips mentioned above can protect everyone and everything for years to come.

Out and About: Catalina Island Edition

From flying fish to laid-back luaus, here are our picks of the best things to do on Santa Catalina Island

Once a getaway for Hollywood elites to escape from paparazzi, Catalina Island has in recent decades become more of a not-so-secret treasure for everyday Angelenos and visitors looking for a simple, relaxing vacation. Cars are few and far-between on the island, and just about everything is either walking distance or a short golf-cart-taxi-ride away; whether you’re shooting for a family vibe, an outdoor-sports experience or a party-heavy hang, Catalina’s got something for everyone in both its port town of Avalon and out into the wild island interior. Here are the best things to do no matter your vibe once you hop off the hour-long boat ride from the mainland.

Flying Fish Voyage

Flying Fish Voyage

What is it: One of the only opportunities you’ll ever have to watch fish fly. Seriously.

Why go: For nearly a century, Catalina’s flying fish boat has been wowing visitors with a surreal experience that seems culled from a dreamworld. Every night over the summer, the crew lures Cheilopogon pinnatibarbatus californicus (otherwise known as flying fish) out of the water for not-quite-actual-flying-but-it-sure-looks-like-it glides up to 100 feet. Bring a jacket—it can get chilly —and keep your eyes out: the fish often end up landing inside the boat.

Wrigley Memorial and Gardens

Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Gardens

What is it: A beautiful ode to the island’s famous founding father.

Why go: William Wrigley, Jr (yes, the gum guy) is responsible for the development of Catalina. So of course the garden and memorial that carries his name is one of the most beautiful spots on the island. It’s a moderate hike from the beach (you can also get up to it by renting a bike, or via golf cart—more on that in a bit). Once there you’ll be immersed in a 37-acre botanical garden focused on plants endemic to California and the Channel Islands. See breathtaking views from the tower overlook built from quarried rocks culled from the island itself.

catalina casino

The Catalina Casino

What is it: Not a gambling hall—rather, it’s a palatial special-events venue complete with a beautiful art-deco movie theater.

Why go: The sort-of-Roman-looking Catalina Casino is the most iconic building on the island, with walls full of stories. Steeped in over 90 years of history, your able to learn more about Catalina Casino on three different walking tours. If a tour’s not your thing, it’s still worth going to a movie there (first-run films show nightly at 7:30pm). The art deco theater is gorgeous, and there’s often pre-show music played through its 1920s-era organ.

Luau Larry’s

Luau Larry’s

What is it: A classic burger-and-drinks shack—with the best fries you’ll ever have.

Why go: First time visitors to Catalina can’t help but notice slews of tourists sporting straw hats. It’s because they’ve all had the Wiki Wack at Luau Larry’s. The fun signature cocktail comes with one of the ubiquitous headpieces. Grease the drink down with their curly fries, which are always perfectly crispy, and seasoned with—well, it’s a secret, but it’s gotta be magic, whatever it is. The burgers aren’t bad, and there are often live-music singalongs at night.

Descanso Beach Club

Descanso Beach Club

What is it: The ‘fancy’ beach on the island, with cabanas, booze and more.

Why go: You can set a blanket on Avalon’s main beaches for free if you’d like. But it’s worth taking a walk just past the Casino to Descanso. Here they offer rentable chaise lounges and cabanas. They’re also the only place on the island you can enjoy alcoholic beverages(for all you rose drinkers). There are also rentable paddleboards, snorkel sets and kayaks, and, over the summer, DJs and live bands on weekends.

Golf cart rental

Golf cart rental

What is it: The best way to see a large percentage of the island—and get a great view.

Why go: Sure, you could spend all your time on Catalina in town in Avalon. But if you want to explore more of the island, the best way is via golf cart. In about two hours you can see beautiful views, check out some of the historical structures and explore hidden spots.

Zipe Line Eco Tour

Eco Zip Line

What is it: A high-intensity aerial experience.

Why go: High-octane adventure seekers should seek out two Catalina experiences: the Ocean Runner boat tour, which blasts through the water at high-speeds on a ribcraft boat, and this high-flying tour, which descends over five ziplines, 600 feet above Descanso, from a unique vantage point to learn about the island’s unusual ecosystem if you’re not just in it for the thrills.

hiking

Hiking trails

What is it: An outdoorsperson’s prime reason to visit.

Why go: Catalina’s inland is covered with hiking trails and camping spots. With over 165 miles of trails to explore, you’ll have options ranging from easy to expert. Obviously, it’s a way to get closer with nature: the island’s host to tons of interesting plants and animals. These include tiny Island foxes and imposing buffalo! With some luck, on an inland hike, you may see a herd peacefully grazing.

Catalina Room Escape

Catalina Room Escape

What is it: Avalon’s newest family-friendly activity.

Why go: Just opened in 2018, the island’s only escape room (pirate-themed, naturally). It is a challenging and fun way to spend an hour if you have one to spare. Just keep in mind: duck, and then look up. We didn’t, and needed to ask for a hint. You’re welcome.

Marlin Club

Bar-hopping

What is it: A time-honored nighttime tradition.

Why go: There’s not a ton of nightlife on Catalina, which can become part of the appeal of a visit. Stop by for karaoke at El Galleon, venturing later in the night to the Marlin, before hitting the dance floor at Club Chi-Chi. Then end the evening with a final nightcap at the Locker Room. The next night? Repeat.

Mt. Ada

Mt. Ada

What is it: William Wrigley Jr’s old mansion—and your fancy lunch spot.

Why go: Mt. Ada, once William Wrigley Jr.’s mansion, and now the fanciest hotel on the island, is also an ideal dining spot. It’s only open for lunch, with a three-course menu that’s not exactly formal, but does have an air of classiness.

The Best Lunar New Year Celebrations 2019

With the Lunar New Year quickly approaching, Los Angeles and it’s surrounding areas have already started on the celebrations. Mark the Year of the Golden Pig with these festive events happening in and around the city. Kicking off this weekend through February!

Lunar New Year Festival

Date: Saturday, January 26-Sunday, January 27, 2019

Location: Downtown Monterey Park

Event producer World Journal and a bounty of food vendors, entertainers and merchants invite you to celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Pig in Monterey Park. The Festival will offer unique gifts and speciality items along with food booths. amusement rides and lots of live entertainment. Arrive early Saturday morning to view the arrival of the traditional New year lion and dragon dancers with firecrackers to kick-off the festival. Various types of entertainment will be featured on both days with crowds of 50,000-100,000 expected to attend. Be sure to plan ahead, click here for more information.

Chinese New Year in Beverly Hills

Date: Saturday, January 26, 2019

Location: Saban Theatre, Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau (BHCVB) will host “Happy Chinese New Year, Charming Jing-Jin-Ji” in Beverly Hills on January 26, 2019. This is the eighth consecutive year of Beverly Hills hosting a Chinese New Year celebratory event. The 2019 Chinese New Year event will be divided into three parts: a variety show, a “Jing-Jin-Ji” photo exhibition and a cultural heritage crafts display and demonstration. The variety show will feature performance groups from Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei with Chinese acrobatics, martial arts, folk dance, Peking opera and more. The cultural heritage crafts display and demonstration will include Peking Opera costumes, ceremonial tea service, traditional folk music and more.

Click here for more information.

Golden Dragon Acrobats

Date: Saturday January 26, 2019

Location: Richard and Karen Carpenter Center, Long Beach

Don’t miss an afternoon of award-winning acrobatics and artistic form from world renowned troupe-Golden Dragon Acrobats. Hailing from Cangzhou in the People’s Republic of China, they represent a time-honored tradition that begun over twenty-five centuries ago. The troupe’s athleticism combined with ancient and modern dance and music present a show of breathtaking skill and spellbinding beauty.

Click here for more information.

Lunar New Year at The Americana at Brand

Date: Sunday, January 27, 2019

Location: The Americana at Brand, Glendale

Similar to the celebrations taking place at the Caruso’s The Grove, The Americana at Brand will celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Pig with a day of family fun. Enjoy complimentary entertainment and activities that focus on the rich history and traditions of the new year on The Green.

Click here for more information.

Lunar New Year at The Grove

Date: Saturday, February 2, 2019

Location: The Grove, Los Angeles

Taking places just a few days prior to the new year is the Groves Lunar celebration. Focused on the festive nature of the holidays, The Grove will highlight the storied meaning, tradition and symbolism through a dazzling display of decor and fun-filled entertainment. Enjoy lively performances and cultural activities on Gilmore Lane and The Plaza of The Original Farmers Market.

Click here for more information

The Huntington-Chinese New Year Festival

Date: Saturday, February 2, 2019

Location: The Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd.s Pasadena

Celebrate the Lunar New Year at The Huntington as the Year of the Pig begins. The festivities include lion dancers, mask-changing performances, martial arts, music and more. Enjoy the days entertainment amongst the Huntington’s stunning botanical gardens.

Click here for more information.

Santa Monica Place Lunar New year Celebration

Date: Saturday, February 2, 2019

Location: Santa Monica

Santa Monica Place will be commerating the Year of the Pig with its annual Lunar New Year celebration. Hosted by comedian Paul “PK” Kim, festivities will include authentic cultural performances and activities. Enjoy an afternoon of traditional Chinese lion dance, stilt walkers, traditional dough artists, and classical Chinese folk music.

Click here for more information.

Shanghai Nights Aboard the Queen Mary

Date: Tuesday, February 5, 2019

Location: The Queen Mary, Long Beach

Celebrate the Chinese New Year aboard the majestic Queen Mary with Shanghai Nights. The evening soiree will be a night of Chinese culture, cuisine and dragon dancing, along with Wushu Warriors Shaolin acrobatics, a guezheng ensemble and more! It is a limited seating event that will be a feast of the senes surrounded by stunning decor.

Click here for more information.

Chinatown Celebrates Year of the Boar

Date: Saturday, February 9, 2019

Location: Chinatown, DTLA

Don’t miss out on Chinatowns biggest party of the year! Celebrate the Year of the Boar with a parade and festival in Chinatown. Featuring Marching Bands, Floats, The Miss Chinatown Queen and Court as well as delicious food, music and fun.

Click here for more information.

Weekend Events: January 25-27, 2019

Here in LA, between all the traffic and day to day humdrum, it can be hard to find those can’t be missed activities happening throughout the city. Well here at Rodeo, we have you covered, scouring the world wide web for the best Angeleno approved events.

From FitExpo 2019 to a celebration of Mozarts birthday, ditch the mundane weekend routine and check out some of the fun below!

Friday, January 25

WhiskyX

Location: Barkers Hanger, Santa Monica

For all our whisky lovers out here in Lalaland, Barker Hanger brings to you this Friday, the event you’ve been waiting for. WhiskyX comes to Santa Monica for an evening of Whisky tasting and live music. From bourbon, scotch to rye, WhiskyX is the ultimate Whisky lovers paradise.

For more information click here.

Blend

Location: The Rendon Gallery, DTLA

This Friday, the Rendon Gallery debuts in DTLA with their debut exhibit Blend. The showcase will feature collaborative work from Zachary Bennett-Brook, Kyle Boatwright, and Armando Dela among others. The of the gallery described the exhibit as such:

We wanted to present the underserved artists in L.A. and from around the world–artists that are not necessarily commercial, but have a lot tp say and have a unique perspective.”-Ralph Ziman, co-founder, The Rendon Gallery

Click here for more information.

Screening Pink Floyd: The Wall

Location: The Wiltern, Los Angeles

Spend your Friday night diving into Rock n Roll history with a screening of Pink Floyd’s The Wall. A 1982 British live-action/animated musical drama film directed by Alan Parker, was based on the hit 1979 Pink Floyd album of the same name.

Click here for more information.

Saturday, January 26

The FitExpo Los Angeles 2019

Location: Los Angeles Convention Center-South Hall

If your still on your new years fitness resolution, there is no better way to kickstart your Saturday then at FitExpo Los Angeles. Sponsored by Subway Restaurants, the event takes place Saturday and Sunday at the LA Convention Center. The action-packed event will offer a variety events, such a group exercise workouts and healthy eating demonstrations.

For more information click here.

Valley Girl Redefined

Location: Brand Library & Art Center, Glendale

There are few cliches as well known as the “Valley Girl”, but for the sake of art let’s toss those out. 11:11 A Creative Collective showcases a group exhibition of the women shaping what it means to be a “Valley girl”. Artists at the Brand Library & Art Center show will include Rachel Apthorp, Judy Baca, and Kathi Flood to name a few. The event will also feature a pop-up newstand by the San Fernando Valley Zine Fest.

For more information click here.

Icons of IMSA “24 Hours” Reception

Location: Petersen Automotive Museum

Don’t miss a once in a lifetime opportunity to watch the 24-hours of Daytona live while hearing the stories of the legendary drivers of the race. The Petersen in conjunction with Rolex, Michelin, and Microsoft, will host an immersive 24 Hour Daytona viewing party. The event will offer both VIP and general admission tickets. The VIP ticket includes exclusive lounge access, networking with speakers and other VIPs, a dedicated food and bar station and other VIP treatments.

Click here for more information.

Sunday, January 27

Mozart 263rd Birthday Concert

Location: Robert Frost Auditorium, Culver City

Classical music would truly not have been the same without him, as Sunday marks the 263rd Birthday of Mozart. Celebrate the day with a concert put on by The Culver City Symphony Orchestra showcasing an All-Mozart Program. And where could be a better setting for the occasion then at the mid-century icon, Culver City’s Robert Frost Auditorium? There is no better way to spend your day then with this perfect blend of arts and culture.

Click here for more information.

2019 Taste of Alhambra Restaurant Week

Location: Downtown, Alhambra, CA

If you missed out on Dine L.A., don’t miss the chance to experience the diverse cuisines of Downtown Alhambra’s restaurant scene. Taste of Alhambra Restaurant Week returns for its second annual event as part of “Visit California Restaurant Month”. The event is free to attend and tickets are not required as restaurants will offer 2-3 fixed course menus from $15-30 for lunch and $20-50 for dinner.

Click here for more information.

Torrance Antique Street Faire

Location: Downtown Torrance

Spend your Sunday in downtown Torrance as the streets are transformed with vintage treasure from over 200 sellers. This eclectic open-air antique market will offer a range of activities along with it’s speciality finds. Enjoy DJ Ozzie in the park, local food specials, and a family and pet friendly environment.

Click here for more information.

LA Eats of the Week

With as many restaurants as there are Bird scooters, we’ve decided to simplify your options of the week by dishing out the best places to grab a bite from power lunches to elegant fare.

Read below for our nosh worthy eats throughout L.A.

“Breakfast is the most important meal of the day!”D

Jon & Vinny’s-Brentwood

11938 San Vicenta Blvd., Brentwood, CA

While the famed Italian restaurant has already landed on our list before, it’s new location in Brentwood was worth the double mention. With All-day menu items like olive oil eggs to their beloved pizza and pastas, its a lineup worthy of a westside trip. If not only to try the newest breakfast winner, the LT. This Jon & Vinny’s take on a known classic combines bacon with delectable tomatoes and runny fried egg.

Farmhouse

8500 Beverly Blvd, ste. 113W

Farmhouse blends the idea of farm-to-table with their vibrant and seasonal dishes. A marvelous collaboration between Executive Farmer Nathan Peitso and Executive Chef Craig Hopson – a featured chef of the James Beard House and veteran of Michelin-starred kitchens. Ingredients are a showcase of each months harvest at its peak, so the menu is always changing. January delights with a $32 weekend buffet brunch that offers fig and ricotta toast to start and a croque madame as one a few entree options.

Viviane

9400 West Olympic Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA

The Kelly Wearstler designed establishment provides continental fare using french techniques. Viviane is tucked into the Avalon Hotel in Beverly Hills. While the hotel feels comfortably vintage, the cuisine at Viviane is a modern ode to California. Taste quintessential LA dishes like their Acai Bowl which blends tropical flavors of coconut and pineapple together among other added fruits. Or go for something a but heartier like the Short Rib Hash, topped with caramelized onions, arugula, and skillet potatoes.

“Lunch, Brunch, Second Breakfast!”

25 Degrees

7000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA

This 24-hour elegant diner is nestled in the heart of Hollywood at The Roosevelt Hotel. 25 Degrees lets you build your own burger, perfect for those afternoon cravings with choices like rich gruyere cheese or prosciutto. Take your top-notch diner experience to the next level with one of their famed malt shakes.

Pizzeria Mozzza

6602 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA

The Nancy Silverton and Joe Bastianich run eatery-Pizzeria Mozza is one three all-star spots in the Mozza Restaurant Group. Obviously their speciality is pies. But not just any pies, the perfectly charred crust kind with a crisp exterior and tasty toppings like squash blossoms and burrata.

Grub

911 Seward St., Los Angeles, CA

Enjoy mouthwatering comfort food on a picturesque patio at Grub. The foliage-covered trellises make this an ideal brunch or lunch spot to take advantage of of while feasting on croissant french toast dredged in bourbon vanilla and cinnamon batter. For a less sweet and more savory midday meal, Denise’s Famous Mac and Cheese with a spicy cayenne kick will push you over that afternoon hump.

“What’s for dinner?”

Nightshade

923 E. 3rd St. #109, Los Angeles, CA

Mei Lin’s newly opened Nightshade has quickly become the talk of the town. With a menu full of Asian-American mashups, the Top Chef has even added her own gourmet twist to blooming onion. If the name is familiar, you would know it best as Outback Steakhouse’s iconic appetizer. Nightshade’s version, the tom yum onion is twice-fried and Thai spiced. While the mapo tofu lasagna and shrimp toast are among the other notably delish dishes.

Maude

212 S Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, CA

You may know Curtis Stone from his cooking show hosting days, but you may not know of his hidden culinary gem in the 90210. Maude is named after Stone’s grandmother. The restaurants quarterly menu is inspired by a specific wine region from around the world. Reservations are a little tough to come by, but well worth the hassle.

Crustacean

468 N Bedford Dr., Beverly Hills, Ca

After undergoing a massive $10 million dollar revamp last year, Crustacean land’s itself back at the top spot of gourmet asian-fusion cuisine. From starters to entrees, dishes are beautifully presented and inventive — like tuna stuffed into flaky brick de feuille cigars and dipped in tobiko caviar. Cocktails also come with a distinctively Asian-inspired twist, like Thai chili-infused vodka or gin with goji berries.

Out and About: Laguna Beach Edition

We aren’t reminiscing of everyone’s favorite realty show of the early 2000’s, but the OC is worth a visit, at least for the day. With Laguna Beach being a household name, the quirky seaside city lives up to its hype. Follow along palm-tree studded streets, strings of art galleries and sites to sit and sip amongst the buffs. Spend some time out and about in Laguna Beach:The Real OC (and our last mention of the show).

To start your day…

At the eatery the NY Times said had “the best avocado toast in the country”. The Stand Natural Foods has served as the town’s vegan centric restaurant go-to since the 70’s. With other deliciously hearty treats like their raw organic nut milks, you’ll be fully charged to start your day.

Afterwards why not take a stroll to the Laguna Art Museum, where you can view California based artwork in this custom-built gallery. The Museum was originally established in 1918 by the Laguna Beach Art Association, where local artists met in rustic cottage before moving a decade later to its current home.

For a one-stop-shop of activities for the whole family, The Ranch at LB is another place of daytime fun. While you can chose to stay overnight, the country club turned resort offers a range of things to do. From stargazing to cooking and mediation classes, garden tours, and even birdwatching. You’ll forget your on a day trip!

By the afternoon…

If you manage to tear yourself away from all that The Ranch has to offer, then make your way make to the bluffs for an afternoon reprieve and some light splurging.

The Montage Laguna Beach is a favorite among california locals and celebrities alike. With it’s Instagramable views and luxury offerings, lunch at their oceanside Mosaic Bar & Grill is almost too idyllic. But necessary. Take in the cool breeze and scenic views while enjoying gourmet cuisine in a serene setting.

After lunch, it only makes sense to enjoy some light retail therapy. For a beachy upscale vibe, Laguna Supply, a light filled boutique offers the perfect array of options for a modern OC woman.

And for the men, North Menswear is a fail proof spot, with Freenote shirts, Levi’s denim and more.

But if you prefer something with more of a nod to Laguna’s roots, then Thalia Surf Shop along PCH is a must. Focused on the towns rich surf history, is a trusted mix of clothing and gear dedicated to Cali’s most famous leisure activity other then hiking.

In the evening…

Selanne Steak Tavern restaurant, patio and interior

As the sun starts to set, opt for an early dinner at one of Laguna’s many culinary hotspots. Selanne Steak Tavern is a cozy, two story cottage built in 1934 feels like eating at your friends home, and co-owner Teemu Selanne, former NHL hockey player for the Anaheim Ducks, apparently likes it that way.

If you don’t quite feel like taking the trek back home, don’t forget The Ranch serves as a perfect staycation spot and under the Laguna night sky, s’mores fireside isn’t a bad idea.