GO///DO EDI T I ON
#66
STASSI SCHROEDER
DOG’S DAY
NORBERT THE DOG IS BRINGING SMILES TO CHILDREN’S FACES
BALLER ALERT
“BALLERS” STAR DONOVAN CARTER DRAWS ON EXPERIENCE PLAYING COLLEGE FOOTBALL TO CHANNEL HIS CHARACTER
SWEET DREAMS ARE MADE OF CHEESE THIS MACARONI & CHEESE PIZZA IS MAKING US MELT
CATCH ME IF YOU CAN
UPGRADE YOUR BRUNCH GAME IN WEHO’S HOTTEST BRUNCH SPOT
VENICE BOARDWALK
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Contributor Call Out PHOTO BY:
TRAVIS MCCOY travismccoy.com @travis_mccoy_photography Native Knowledge - Leg Day Daniel Steres, Defender, LA Galaxy Soccer Team Photoshoot Location: LA Galaxy, StubHub Center 18400 S Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90746 DATE TAKEN: MAY 31, 2017 LOCALE MAGAZINE 3
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THE TEAM ERIK HALE Publisher + Founder erik@localemagazine.com | @local_e ASHLEY SMITH COO/Co-Founder ashley@localemagazine.com | @ashleyelainexo REILLY KAVANAUGH Art Director reilly@localemagazine.com | @localereilly | @reillyek EDITORIAL JORDAN LIGONS Editor jordan@localemagazine.com | @justjayyL CHELSEA RAINERI Editor chelsea@localemagazine.com | @chelsearaineri CHARLOTTE FARRELL Editor charlotte@localemagazine.com | @charlottefarrell KALYNN NGUYEN Photoshoot Coordinator kalynn@localemagazine.com | @kalynncnguyen SALES & MARKETING MIKE TODD SMITH Sr. Market Manager mts@localemagazine.com | @miketoddsmith JASON KOSKY Sr. Market Manager jason@localemagazine.com | @locale_jason JAMES ULRICH Market Manager james@localemagazine.com | @j_bubbs JOEL THOMPSON Market Manager joel@localemagazine.com | @joelclaythompson RILEY O'NEILL Market Manager riley@localemagazine.com | @therileyoneill BRIANNA ROMANO Partnerships + Marketing Director brianna@localemagazine.com | @briannaontheweekend KALEIGH BORGSCHATZ Event & Social Coordinator kaleigh@localemagazine.com | @kaleighmborg FINANCE VALERIE KERR Accountant accounting@localemagazine.com DISTRIBUTION RICK RAMIREZ & ROBERT JONES
THE CONTRIBUTORS
PHOTOGRAPHERS ALICIA CHO aliciacho.com | @aliciachofoto | JON WONG iamjonwong.com | @iamjonwong ARELI GONZALEZ arelig3.wordpress.com | @arelig3 DIANE LOMBARDI dianelombardi.com | @dianelombardi07 JARED SCHLACHET & JOE MAGNANI OF JSQUARED PHOTOGRAPHY jsquaredphotography.com | @j2pix JOE NARDELLO flickr.com/photos/jnardello | @joenardello MATTIA CAZZOLA mattiacazzola.com | @matcazzola MAXX BUCHANAN maxxbuchanan.com | @maxxbuchanan NATASHA LEE bynatasha.net | @talktonatasha NATHAN WHELAN ngwhelanphoto.com | @ngwhelan RYAN HENSLEY ryanhensleyphotography.com | @ryan_hensley_photography RYAN WEST ryanwestphoto.com | @ryanwestphoto TAE KWON taekwonphoto.com | @taekwonphoto | TASO PAPADAKIS tasophoto.com TRAVIS MCCOY travismccoy.com | @travis_mccoy_photography VICTORIA FILICE victoriafilice.com | @victoriafilice_ WIL COHEN wilcohen.com | @wilcohen FA S H I O N S T Y L I S T S CLAUDIA ALVARADO claudiaalvarado.org | @claudiaalva NEIL COHEN neilcohenstyle.com | @neilcohenstyle BEAUTY STYLISTS ALICIA WHEELER aliciawheeler.com | @makeupartistalicia BRIAN BOND brianbondmakeup.com | @brianbondmakeup JULIA SAVITSKAYA juliadoeshair.com | @annysty RUTH TORRES vsco.co/ruthintruth | @ruthintruthvisuals
*For full information on our contributors go to www.localemagazine.com/about
WRITERS ASHLEE POLAREK inspirationfromexploration.wordpress.com | @thegreatbigwonder DAMON GONZALEZ theycallmedaymz.com | @theycallmedaymz GABRIELLE ABENOJA @gabbyface_ | KEANA MCGRATH @kayonuh GABRIELA MUNGARRO gabrielamungarro.com | @gaby_mungarro | IAN HAYS JODY MILLER jodymiller.journoportfolio.com JORDAN YOUNGER thebalancedblonde.com | @thebalancedblonde KARLI KARANDOS karlirosetravel.wordpress.com | @karankar LYNDSAY MARVIN lyndsinreallife.com | @lyndsinreallife | NANDA DYSSOU nandadyssou.com NIKKI BROWN nikkibrowncreates.com PRISCILLA THOMAS-NAKANE savvygirlpr.com | @savvygirl_pr QUINTAN VALLES @qvalles | REBECCA GRAZIER @rebeccagraz RENEE SCHMIEDEBERG reneeschmiedeberg.com SHONETTE REED shonettereed.contently.com | @shonettereed TAMARA AUSTRING @candid.california | VICTORIA RAMIREZ @victoriaramirez02
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All rights reserved © 2017, the entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any forms or by any means without express written prior permission of the copyright owner. LOCALE M AGAZI NE 2755 Bristol St Ste 295, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.436.8910 • www.localemagazine.com • info@localemagazine.com @localemagazine • #localemagazine
Locale Magazine is printed by SOUTHWEST OFFSET PRINTING 13650 Gramercy Pl, Gardena, CA 90249 | 310.323.0112 | www.southwestoffset.com
COVER
Photographed By: Wil Cohen, wilcohen.com | @wilcohen Model: Stassi Schroeder, www.juststassi.com | @stassischroeder Location: Venice Boardwalk, 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291 | 310.396.6764 | www.venicebeach.com/the-venice-beach-boardwalk Styled By: Claudia Alvarado, claudiaalvarado.org | @claudiaalva Hair and Makeup By: Brian Bond, brianbondmakeup.com | @brianbondmakeup and Julia Savitskaya, juliadoeshair.com | @annysty Top Provided By: Daniel Patrick, www.danielpatrick.us Bodysuit Provided By: Grana, www.grana.com Necklace Provided By: Smith+Mara, www.smithandmara.com
MAKING THE ISSUE On time and strolling in with a huge smile and a suitcase full of shoes, Stassi Schroeder immediately set the tone for a fun and adventurous shoot day on the iconic Venice Beach Boardwalk. The style for Stassi’s cover shoot was an updated ‘80s look. This was achieved with chic makeup by Brian Bond and a classic side-pony perfectly styled by Julia Savitskaya. As for accessories, last minute we got a call from our good friends over at JammyPack who rushed over some amazing fanny packs with built in bluetooth speakers for listening to music. They were perfect for completing Stassi’s last look of the day and made for an awesome time on the boardwalk. If you’ve never been to Venice Beach, let me paint you a picture. The smell of the ocean, surfers walking by carrying their boards, people rollerblading and skateboarding with their own music blaring, and artists lined up along the boardwalk selling their latest creations. Oh, and then there was Stassi jumping around in a cloud of bubbles as photographer Wil Cohen captured her using his Canon 5DS and 50mm lens—casual. Stassi was posting on social media during the shoot and within 10 minutes had over 70,000 views on Snapchat and over 100,000 on Instagram. I guess the paparazzi saw too because our shoot was shared around the world via the Daily Mail UK and TMZ just a few hours later. Oh, the life of a celebrity.
A NOTE FROM OUR
PUBLISHER This is the fourth time I have written my publisher’s notes for our LA August issue. I had to pause after writing that for quite some time. How did five percent of my life go by in a flash? When I wrote this the first time, I had just left a perfectly good job, hired my first employee, Ashley Smith, and rented 400 square feet above Kéan Coffee. All while spending every waking hour of the previous 90 days selling advertisements, setting up delivery locations, taking pictures and preparing for our first launch party. I was exhilarated and exhausted. I was afraid and full of hope—I was naive. Upon reflection, I don't believe that any other cocktail of emotional and physical state would have propelled me through the first year. My first publisher’s notes were certainly influenced by my then nine year old son’s affection for the "Dork Diaries" as I described my perfect day. (See photo.) Looking back at what I thought was cool eight years ago is probably the same feeling you get when you see yourself in bedazzled True Religion jeans in (hopefully) an old photo. I can kind of remember why I thought those things were cool, but it was long before so many more cool things were available. So much has changed in Los Angeles since that first edition, beginning with my perception. My perfect day now looks very different. Our breakfast and brunch game has been elevated, and now with four different markets, I am as likely to be at brunch at Gjelina in Venice as I am to be at Cappy's in Newport. I still go to Al Cap's on the Newport peninsula but there are at least three new coffee joints in the South Bay vying for my caffeine coins. Nightlife has switched from Scott's (now Water Grill), Rudy's and The Crow Bar to Warwick and The Peppermint Club. I still want to go paddle boarding but I still don't have a board and not sure how much I would go if I did. I still love TK Burgers, in fact, I had one this week, but I am now more likely to eat The Antioxidant Orchard Salad at Greenleaf Chopshop. That guy back then was overworked and stressed out at his previous job and just wanted a day to have fun. His perfect day was a day off. My perfect day now includes:
Ò Motivating my sales team with long-winded speeches. Ò Flipping through a new issue our talented Art Director, Reilly, has finished. Ò Listening to editorial pitches. Ò Talking with my son about college. Ò Party planning like J-Lo in The Wedding Planner. Ò Trying out a new restaurant and breaking my habits. Ò Listening to new music—the newer, the better. Ò Planning vacations. Ò Snuggling on the couch with my family. Today is so much different, but it is still perfect. How did we get to eight years? Day by day. P.S. Speaking of change, my partner and COO, Ashley Smith, who married my longtime friend and Senior Market Manager, Mike Smith, just had their first baby. We would like to welcome Scout Leo Smith, born June 7, 2017 at seven pounds, five ounces and 19 and a half inches to the LOCALE family.
Ò Waking up early and sending emails. Ò A walk with the F-word (Fiancé). Ò Waking up Makena, taking her to singing lessons and tucking her into bed. Ò Chaperoning sleepovers of three or four girls and making coconut pancakes. Ò Searching for the perfect Instagram picture.
Scout Leo Smit 7lbs .5oz & 19.5 h In
ERIK HALE PUBLISHER + FOUNDER erik@localemagazine.com | @local_e
LOCALE MAGAZINE
TA BL E CO NTEN T S of
AUGUST 2017
THIS ISSUE: GO/DO
26 Do Profile
30
Norbert the Dog
BALLER ALERT
“Ballers” Star Donovan Carter Draws on Experience Playing College Football to Channel His Character
DOG’S DAY
Road Trip Guide
GET LOST
Hit the Road With Our Extreme Road Trip Guide
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Go/Do Experts
I’M DIFFERENT, YEAH, I’M DIFFERENT
From Beekeepers to Olympic Coaches, These Seven Experts Are the Movers and Shakers of Los Angeles
Norbert the Dog is Bringing Smiles to Children’s Faces
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46
Music Spotlight
LOCAL SOUND: MARIO JOSE
This Up-and-Comer is On the Rise to Stardom
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Alexis Jones
IT GIRL
Alexis Jones Dishes on the Importance of Female Empowerment
LOCALE MAGAZINE
TA BL E CO NTEN T S of
AUGUST 2017
12
LOCALENDAR
20 Events in Los Angeles You Cannot Miss
14
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
Where to be Monday-Sunday
22
STYLE/BEAUTY
HOME/AWAY
72
Beauty Expert
BOSS LADIES
When it Comes to Working Together, Jennifer Negrette-Nairn and Shay Merchav of Beauty Beach Lounge Are Pros
INSTA-ACTIVE
Adventurous Instagrams We Love
60
EAT/DRINK
Duke’s Mai Tai
DON’T TOUCH MAI DRINK Escape to Hawaii With Duke’s Mai Tai
63
Meals Deconstructed
SWEET DREAMS ARE MADE OF CHEESE
This Macaroni & Cheese Pizza is Making Us Melt
78
Cover Story
FOR REAL THOUGH
The “Vanderpump Rules” Starlet and “Straight Up with Stassi” Podcast Host Gets Real
88
Fashion Spread
HAUTE HAUTE HEAT
Heat Things Up With These Stylish Looks
106
Home Expert
BUILDING BLOCKS
Super-Yachts, Luxury Homes and Custom Designs: Meet the Masterminds Behind March & White
113
Escape: Greater Palm Springs
SWEET SERENITY
Detox at Two Bunch Palms in Desert Hot Springs This Weekend
76 BELOFORTE
THAT’S A STRETCH
Break a Sweat in Style With BELOFORTE Leggings
110 Hotel Angeleno
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Eat Profile
That's What She Said
Setting the Table
SCHOOL OF FISH
MALIBU-TIFUL
CATCH ME IF YOU CAN
When Life Threw Chef Andy Matsuda A Curveball, He Didn’t Let It Stop Him
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Wellness Blogger Jordan Younger Takes Us to Her Favorite Spots in Gorgeous Malibu
Upgrade Your Brunch Game in WeHo’s Hottest Brunch Spot
SUITE ESCAPE It’s All-Around Luxury at the Hotel Angeleno
LOCALENDAR 20 Events in Los Angeles You Cannot Miss WRITTEN BY: RENEE SCHMIEDEBERG
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GO TO CAMP NO COUNSELORS September 28-October 1
and drive up to Lake Hughes for the adult summer camp you’ve been waiting for. We’re talking adultsonly water sports, themed parties, delectable meals, an open bar and plenty of quintessential camp activities. CNC promises to couple the best parts of childhood and adulthood together for a weekend of carefree bliss.
¢ 2017 has no shortage of Labor Day Weekend events and The Taste is sure to be a big one. Taking place in Hollywood at the Paramount Pictures Studios, The Taste is hosted by the Los Angeles Times and boasts a mouthful of LA’s best and most talkedabout eateries. This event will have your taste buds sent on an intergalactic gastronomical adventure you won’t want to come down from.
www.campnocounselors.com
www.events.latimes.com/taste
¢ Leave the kids at home
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HEAD TO THE 6-MAN BEACH VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT August 4-5
¢ Experience the revelry of
the legendary Charlie Saikley 6-Man Beach Volleyball Tournament. This iconic event combines a high level of beach volleyball with an exciting flair to it, where amateur players compete with and against the best plays on the beach. Come down to cheer on your favorite players playing in costumes! www.citymb.info/6man
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LISTEN TO THE MUSICAL STYLINGS OF ERIC CLAPTON September 13-18 ¢ Watch a live performance of one of the world’s most famously skilled guitarists, Eric Clapton, at The Forum in Inglewood. Guitar-aficionados won’t want to miss seeing Clapton’s fancy fingerwork live for these back to back performances. www.vividseats.com/concerts 12 LOCALE MAGAZINE
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SING ALONG TO HAMILTON August 11-December 30 ¢ The critically acclaimed
Broadway musical Hamilton is the hot show at the moment and has been since its release in 2015. It tells the story of one of America’s Founding Fathers, Alexander Hamilton, his immigration from the West Indies to George Washington’s right-hand man during the American Revolution. Don’t miss this opportunity to see it live at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. www.hollywoodpantages.com
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EXPLORE BEATY CON August 12-13 ¢ Mosey on over to the Los Angeles Convention Center in downtown and network with other makeup artists, enjoy food, panels, tutorials and meet the beauty gurus that taught you how to make that perfect winged cat-eye. www.beautycon.com
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EXPERIENCE THE TASTE September 1-3
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GET ON BOARD FOR LA FLEET WEEK September 1-4 ¢ Go aboard real US military
ships for this Labor Day weekend excursion! A closer encounter with the intricacies of military ships is just the thing for friends and family. Expect selfie photo tours, live entertainment and fleets of monstrous ships. www.lafleetweek.com
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CHECK OUT THE ABBOT KINNEY FESTIVAL September 24 ¢ Stroll down Abbot Kinney
for their annual street festival and indulge in a variety of artisanal foods, unique boutiques, rides and games for kids, music stages and beer gardens. The festival runs a mile long in the sunny neighborhood of Venice, spreading the sunlit, good vibes of this California beach town. www.abbotkinney.org
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LA COUNTY FAIR September 1-24 ¢ Live music, acrobats, fair rides, ice skating, man-made dinosaurs, paleontologists, horse races, floral exhibits, art exhibits and more! There’s also food for everyone, from deep fried hot sauce to vegan loaded jackfruit tacos! With something for everyone, the LA County Fair is a fabulous way to soak up the last bit of heat before fall starts again. www.lacountyfair.com
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EAT AT THE LOBSTER FESTIVAL September 8-10 ¢ Got a passion for crustaceans? Dive into the Long Beach Lobster Festival taking place in Rainbow Lagoon Park. Munch on lobster sliders, lobster-on-astick, lobster rolls—whatever you can make with a lobster, they’re doing it! There are plenty of non-seafood eateries available as well. Kids can get in for free and hang out at the petting zoo, bounce houses, face painting and more. www.originallobsterfestival.com
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WATCH AMELIE AT THE EAT SEE HEAR OUTDOOR THEATER September 16
¢ As the crème de la crème of commercial cinemas, the Cinépolis at the Westlake Promenade is the best way to see a movie in luxury. Top of the line audio systems, super luxurious push button waiter service, cool cocktails and airconditioned theaters will take you on a one way trip to easy summer living.
¢ Watch the cult classic film at Santa Monica High School for an outdoor movie theater experience on a cool summer night. The French film follows Amelie and her colorsaturated world. Blankets, cushions and snacks are encouraged to make your viewing comfortable.
www.cinepolisusa.com
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¢ Empire Music Ventures’
¢ This spooktacular and
new festival is coming to Indio in October, so you better get ready! Headliners like Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Rebelution, J Boog, Steel Pulse, E-40 and Reel Big Fish along with 18 other live bands will rock the three Empire Polo Field stages. Trust us, it’ll be worth the road trip!
educational Halloween event lets guests discover the creatures in the deep. Dress up your kids in their best Halloween attire for the costume contest, or join in at the coloring contest, magic show, underwater pumpkin carving and more! You even get to meet creepy animals.
www.desertoasismusicfestival.com
www.aquariumofpacific.org
MANGIA AT THE TASTE OF ITALY October 14
CHEERS AT OKTOBERFEST October 21-22
PARTY AT THE DESERT OASIS MUSIC FESTIVAL October 7-8
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¢ Head to the Italian
American Museum of Los Angeles for the Taste of Italy! With over 40 of the area’s tastiest Italian restaurants, over 100 world class wines, live entertainment and chef demonstrations all in a historic setting, this event is sure to be magnifico!
GET YOUR SCREAM ON AT SCARIUM OF THE PACIFIC October 14-15
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¢ Oktoberfest is coming to Pershing Square in Downtown LA this fall, so spend the weekend living it up during this fun and cultural event. Admission is free, and tasting packages range from $15 to $65, so make sure to secure a safe ride home and enjoy the fun! Prost! www.oktoberfestdtla.com
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DANCE TO HARRY STYLES September 20 ¢ Dreamboat Harry Styles graces Los Angeles with his lush voice at the Greek Theatre. Styles’ tour doesn’t hit many West Coast cities so serious fans won’t want to miss out. www.lagreektheatre.com
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SEE KINGSMAN: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE AT CINÉPOLIS September 22
WATCH SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK August 2-September 3 ¢ Take a quick getaway
from the city hustle to see Shakespearian comedies, tragedies and romances at the Old Zoo in Griffith Park. The Independent Shakespeare Co. puts on these annual summer plays free of charge and is great for the whole family. Bring a blanket, don a sweater and pack a picnic for a summer night’s dream.
www.eatseehear.com
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ENJOY A SUMMER OF FREE CONCERTS Until September 3 ¢ Every summer, cities throughout California host their own free outdoor music shows, attracting picnicpeople, romances, dancers and all kinds of listeners. Head out to Polliwog Park in Manhattan Beach for a free concert featuring music ranging from rock, jazz, pop and more. www.citymb.info/ summerconcerts
www.iscla.org/griffith-park-festival
WALK AROUND THE WEST HOLLYWOOD HALLOWEEN CARNAVAL October 31 ¢ Happening on Santa Monica Boulevard in between Doheny Drive and La Cienega Boulevard, at the West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval you’ll see insanely good costumes, glitter bombs, drag queens and some good ol’ Halloween debauchery. A street carnival with roughly 500,000 raving people is not something you’ll see everyday. www.visitwesthollywood.com/ halloween-carnaval
www.italianhall.org LOCALE MAGAZINE 13
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY
FINE TUNED
Scott Harrison Orchestrates His Perfect Week
EXPERT: Scott Harrison CREDENTIALS: Executive Director of Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra
MONDAY ¢ Time to catch up after a weekend of LACO concerts: emails, calls, checking in with staff; it’s not glamorous but it needs to be done! To clear my mind at day’s end, I visit LA Central Library’s inspiring Mediterranean Revival building and find a good read. lapl.org TUESDAY ¢ The orchestra starts rehearsing for the weekend at the Colburn School, a key partner and our primary facility. I’ll host meetings on the Colburn Café patio prior to rehearsal. We also present Baroque Conversations at Colburn’s Zipper Hall in the heart of the Grand Avenue Arts District. colburnschool.edu WEDNESDAY ¢ Mid-week I’ll take the Metro Expo Line to the Westside to meet with board members, prospective donors and partners. A charming meeting spot is Santa Monica’s Le Petit Cafe by the 26th Street/ Bergamot station stop. lepetitcafebonjour.com THURSDAY ¢ My wife and I try to squeeze in date night if our schedules allow. We live downtown and we love exploring its unique
neighborhoods and exploding restaurant scene. One frequent dinner stop is KazuNori on Main for Chef Nozawa’s hand rolls. kazunorisushi.com FRIDAY ¢ We spend lots of time at LACO meeting with our community partners to understand and imagine how we can make classical music more accessible and equitable. One of our most important partners in this quest is the Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles. icyola.org SATURDAY ¢ Saturdays are spent in dress rehearsal before LACO performs for another packed crowd at Glendale’s Alex Theatre. We’re proudly orchestra-in-residence for both Glendale Arts and CAP UCLA. cap.ucla.edu glendalearts.org SUNDAY
¢ Family time! Our daughter
loves being outside, so we’ll take her to one of DTLA’s many playgrounds. Our go-to is usually Grand Hope Park adjacent to FIDM on Ninth between Hope and Grand. It’s always full of other children and endless adventures. tclf.org/landscapes/grandhope-park
“To clear my mind at day’s end, I visit LA Central Library’s inspiring Mediterranean Revival building and find a good read.”—Scott Harrison
LOS ANGELES CHAMBER ORCHESTRA 350 S Figueroa St Ste 183 Los Angeles, CA 90071 213.622.7001 www.laco.org Photoshoot Location: COLBURN SCHOOL ZIPPER HALL 200 S Grand Ave Los Angeles, CA 90012 213.621.2200 www.colburnschool.edu
Photographed By: Ryan West
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NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY
LEG DAY
When He’s Not on the Field, Daniel Steres is Enjoying the Sand, Sun and Some Good Sushi
EXPERT: Daniel Steres CREDENTIALS: Defender, LA Galaxy Soccer Team
MONDAY ¢ Regen[eration] day—we ease our way back into the week after a game on the weekend. Perfect time to get out with the guys for 18 holes at El Dorado Park Golf Course, which has become our “home” course. eldoradoparkgc.com TUESDAY ¢ Training kicks into gear. Need to keep my body fresh off the field, so I bike over to Bixby Park for sunset yoga on the bluff and the local farmers market. A perfect two-in-one stop for a body reset and replenish. yogalutionmovement.com WEDNESDAY ¢ My girlfriend and I like to explore new restaurants and have tried most of the sushi spots in Long Beach, but our favorite is Sushi On Fire. Perfect for a date night or with a group of friends, right on the popular, and always lively, 2nd Street in Belmont Shore. The Halloween Roll is the go-to roll for me. sushionfire.com THURSDAY ¢ Time to wind down, put on Netflix or a movie and order in some food. Manaow Thai restaurant is down the street, perfect for the occasion, and
makes some amazing curry dishes and fried rice. Doesn’t get better than that. manaowthai.com FRIDAY ¢ Pregame meal is very important, which is why I rely on Romano Cucina to serve me up a solid pasta dinner. This small, local Italian spot in Sunset Beach has become a tradition for us the night before a game. romanocucina.com SATURDAY ¢ Game day! Nothing starts this day off better than a walk to local coffee shop Viento y Agua. One of our favorites in the area, good vibes and an excellent Dirty Chai. After the game, we gather at Padre in downtown Long Beach with friends and family for drinks and tacos! vientoyaguacoffeehouse.com padrelongbeach.com SUNDAY ¢ A day off after the game calls for sleeping in and some homemade breakfast. Then it is time for the beach! Pick up a delicious sandwich and some snacks at Olives Gourmet Grocer before heading bayside to catch some rays. olivesgourmetgrocer.com
“After the game, we gather at Padre in downtown Long Beach with friends and family for drinks and tacos!”
LA GALAXY STUBHUB CENTER 18400 Avalon Blvd Carson, CA 90746 310.630.2000 www.lagalaxy.com DANIEL STERES @dsteres44
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LOCALE MAGAZINE
Photographed By: Travis McCoy
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY
ONE, TWO, STEP This LA Local Spends Her Week Staying in Shape and Enjoying the Best of LA
EXPERT: Michelle “Jersey” Maniscalco CREDENTIALS: Professional Dancer, Choreographer and Creator of Hottie Heels MONDAY ¢ Motivation Monday! I love going to Runyon Canyon Park for an amazing workout with beautiful views that overlook the city. After working up an appetite, one of my favorite spots to eat is The Calif. Chicken Cafe. califchickencafe.com TUESDAY ¢ This is my dance day. I prepare choreography for the students taking my Hottie Heels class at Millennium Dance Complex. On my break from dancing, I walk over to the famous Jinky’s Cafe for some business meetings. It is amazing! jinkys.com WEDNESDAY ¢ Fitness is a lifestyle, so to start my Wednesday off right, I love bringing my twin babies and my dog to Fryman Canyon Park. Fryman is petfriendly and offers beautiful trails for a moderate workout. lamountains.com THURSDAY ¢ I have to perk up in the morning, so I head over
“As a professional dancer/ choreographer I have to take care of my body, so getting an hour Swedish massage [at Voda Spa] is such a treat.”
to Aroma Coffee & Tea Company. Their delicious selection of coffee and pastries rock my world. aromacoffeeandtea.com FRIDAY ¢ Fridays are for relaxing! I love grabbing a girlfriend and hitting the spa! As a professional dancer/ choreographer I have to take care of my body, so getting an hour Swedish massage [at Voda Spa] is such a treat. vodaspa.com SATURDAY ¢ It’s beach time at Santa Monica Pier! I grab my twins and go for a beautiful bike ride. After, I love grabbing food at Ma’Kai Restaurant & Lounge for happy hour. makailounge.com SUNDAY ¢ My time for praise and worship and feeding my soul at In His Presence Church, then I head over to Granville Cafe with my family for brunch. ihpchurch.org granvillecafe.com
MICHELLE MANISCALCO www.michellemaniscalco.com @jerseyluv7 Photoshoot Location: MILLENNIUM DANCE COMPLEX 11528 Ventura Blvd Studio City, CA 91604 818.753.5081 www.millenniumdancecomplex.com
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Photographed By: Tae Kwon
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY
GET YOUR HEART RATE UP The Fit Couple Walks Us Through Their Week Of Strength, Teaching and Cheat Meals
EXPERT: Devin Wiggins and Meagan Fulps CREDENTIALS: Founders/Head Trainers of A Couple of Trainers
MONDAY ¢ Time to grind! Rise Movement is the place to be for top-tier, secluded private training. Come get stronger by training with Devin for a session or with owner Jason Walsh. rise-movement.com TUESDAY ¢ Be sure to go to the most effective and high-energy 30-minute cardio class that exists in LA—Rise Nation! Because you can never get enough of Devin, come take his class front row with me! rise-nation.com WEDNESDAY
¢ Now that you've worked
your booty off, it's time to join us and fuel up with some delicious, yet healthy grub from Fresh Corn Grill! We can't help but order their taco bowls. freshcorngrill.com THURSDAY ¢ When you need an extra pep in your step, you'll find us camped out with our laptops at the quiet
“When you need an extra pep in your step, you'll find us camped out with our laptops at the quiet and adorable coffee shop, Andante.”
and adorable coffee shop, Andante. A simple latte combined with any of their avocado toasts gets us ready to rock our entire to-do list. FRIDAY ¢ When you need a good variation of strength and cardio, go with Devin to take my sunset class on the rooftop at Speedplay in Beverly Hills! speedplayla.com SATURDAY ¢ Miss the days when you forgot you were working out because you were having so much fun? Come to our Field Day bootcamps at the hottest studios all over LA. acoupleoftrainers.com/field-day SUNDAY ¢ Last but not least, Sundays are for splurging, because you know we're all about balance! You will catch us ordering up a storm at Shaky Alibi, the most delicious hidden waffle gem in LA. shakyalibi.com
A COUPLE OF TRAINERS www.acoupleoftrainers.com @acoupleoftrainers Photoshoot Location: SPEEDPLAY BEVERLY HILLS 8500 Wilshire Blvd, Penthouse Beverly Hills, CA 90211 323.473.5191 www.speedplayla.com
Photographed By: Joe Nardello
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I N STA- ACT I V E Adventurous Instagrams We
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MANKOFIT Massy Arias @massy.arias
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MALIBU WINE SAFARIS @malibusafaris
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BLOGILATES Cassey Ho @blogilates
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SOLÉ BICYCLE CO. @solebicycles
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SAM EVANS @samevanslife
WORLD SURF LEAGUE @wsl
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SEE SANTA MONICA @seesantamonica
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BRABUS @theofficialbrabus
A SENSE OF HUBER Kyle Huber @asenseofhuber
F O LLO W LO CA LE M AG A Z I N E O N I N STAG R A M @localemagazine • #localemagazine
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PHOTO BY: Jared Schlachet and Joe Magnani of J Squared
GO ///DO
AUGUST 2017
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GO/DO EXPERTS I’m Different, Yeah, I’m Different
From Beekeepers to Olympic Coaches, These Seven Experts Are the Movers and Shakers of Los Angeles
DO PROFILE Donovan Carter is Going From the Field to the TV Screen
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NORBERT THE DOG This Pup is Not Your Average Hero
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ROAD TRIP GUIDE Go to the Extreme in This Ultimate Road Trip Guide
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MUSIC SPOTLIGHT The Sweet Sounds of Mario Jose: A Lyrical Genius
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GO/DO EXPERTS The Masters of Their Trade in LA
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ALEXIS JONES Get Empowered By I AM THAT GIRL
JJJ BEES www.jjjbees.com Photoshoot Location: LOS ANGELES, CA
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DO PROFILE
B ALLER
A L E RT “BALLE R S” STAR DONOVAN CARTER DRAWS ON EXP ER I EN C E PLAY ING CO LL EGE FOOT BA LL TO CHA NNEL HIS CHA RACTER
WRITTEN BY: NIKKI BROWN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JARED SCHLACHET AND JOE MAGNANI
We all have childhood dreams. We fantasize about growing up to be pro athletes and firemen, astronauts and spies, musicians and movie stars. Donovan Carter dreamed of playing football for the NFL, and he nearly achieved his goal. A celebrated college career playing for the UCLA Bruins led him to try out for the Oakland Raiders, but he didn’t make the final cut. Carter’s childhood aspiration could have ended there, but an open mind led him to consider other possibilities. The former football star is now living his dream, but rather than playing football for the NFL, he acts the part of NFL player, Vernon Littlefield, on the HBO show “Ballers.”
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DONOVAN CARTER @donovanwcarter Photoshoot Location: LOS ANGELES, CA
“It’s up to you to be risky enough to try something.” —Donovan Carter
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“Go for your dreams, whatever gives you the butterflies.” —Donovan Carter
CARTER
stars alongside mega-celebrity Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson in what is now the third season of the show. “Ballers” offers a behind the scenes view into the private lives of NFL players and those who support them. Johnson plays the role of Carter’s financial manager. It’s common to hear about pro athletes who make millions only to go broke a few years after retirement, and the show sheds a much-needed light on this real-world struggle. 28 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Carter thinks there are some key lessons that people of all walks of life can learn from the show when it comes to money management and just being a good person. Speaking of his character, Carter said, “You got a lot of people in [Vernon’s] ear telling him what to do,” later adding, “Sometimes you have to learn from your mistakes.” Carter hopes younger players can learn a few tips on how to manage their finances and set themselves up for rewarding lives. “I’m learning from Vernon’s mistakes right now in my real life,” he said. In the show, Carter’s character, Vernon, figures out that he needs to heed the advice of those who care about him and ultimately make decisions that are best for his career. Indeed, in real-life, Carter wouldn’t be where he is if he hadn’t listened to advice and made his own decisions along the way. When Carter didn’t make the Oakland Raiders during the tryout weekend, his dreams were crushed. Not knowing what to do next, Carter spoke to his UCLA defensive line coach, Angus McClure. McClure put Carter in touch with a former UCLA quarterback, actor Mark Harmon. Carter hadn’t acted since a role in an elementary school play of To Kill a Mockingbird, but, inspired by Harmon, he decided to take a risk and give acting a try. Carter’s open mind paid off. After successfully landing a few commercial gigs, he had the
opportunity to audition for “Ballers.” Three months of nail biting and uncertainty passed, and Carter received word that he had landed the role of a lifetime. “[There’s been] ups and downs like everybody,” said Carter, but “I just appreciate the moment [and] enjoy every day.”
GAME NIGHT When he’s not acting, Carter loves to play dominoes with his buddies from UCLA. BIG FAN Carter’s favorite NFL player right now is Luke Kuechly of the Carolina Panthers. CHILL TIME An LA local, Carter’s favorite spot to hang is the SoHo House in West Hollywood.
After three seasons on “Ballers,” Carter has grown as an actor and as a person. On the first season he said he wanted to do everything right, but now he likes to mix it up with different choices. “You have to put yourself out there,” he said. “It’s up to you to be risky enough to try something.” Just like his days playing football with the Bruins, Carter mastered the art of listening to the director, showrunner and fellow cast, but most importantly, he learned to trust his own instincts. Gaining an understanding of how to take good advice and stay true to himself has served Carter well in football, acting and in life. Carter compared the collaborative atmosphere of “Ballers” to being on a great football team. Describing what it’s like to be on set, he said, “There’s no ego. There’s no animosity. Everybody genuinely loves each other.” Carter has previously spoken about the positive influence of working with Johnson. When he first started on the show, he felt a mix of nerves and excitement, and Johnson reassured Carter that everyone believed in him and told him to just keep doing what he was doing. Carter hopes “Ballers” will go for a fourth season, but beyond the HBO comedy he wants to continue to grow as an actor and expand his range. “I want to try different things,” said Carter about his future. Always willing to put himself out there, if the role is a good fit, Carter is all in. “My goal every year is to always be better,” he said. He also hopes that his story will inspire others to take risks and believe in themselves. “Go for your dreams,” he said, “whatever gives you the butterflies.”
Gaining an understanding of how to take good advice and stay true to himself has served Carter well in football, acting and in life.
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GO/DO
NORBERT www.norberthood.com @norbertthedog Photoshoot Location: TONGVA PARK 1615 Ocean Ave Santa Monica, CA 90401 310.458.8310 www.tongvapark.smgov.net
STRIKE A POSE
Dog’s Day Norbert the Dog is Bringing Smiles to Children’s Faces WRITTEN BY: VICTORIA RAMIREZ PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOE NARDELLO
“Norbert is adorable and quirky, and I think both of those things combined make him an incredibly unique creature,” said his owner, Julie Steines. He snores very loudly, makes funny little sounds and even his gait is endearingly charming. Norbert’s signature trait is his tongue that sticks out due to a few missing teeth.
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Norbert has a large following—the Norberthood—on Instagram at over 500,000 followers. Over time, Norbert gradually gained fame over Instagram for his stylish outfits, loving personality and cute appearance. “I think that the more that we put ourselves out there through volunteering and just posting fun and inspiring content, people like it, especially now with all of the hardships and unthinkable things that occur in the world, and Norbert provides an escape from that,” said Steines. Steines and Norbert emphasize that “Volunteering and doing our therapy work is the foundation of everything that Norbert embodies.” After relocating from Boston to Los Angeles, Norbert and Steines started looking for ways to get involved in their community. That’s when they came across the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. “It’s fantastic because I have first-hand experience on how those dog visits affect the patients, families and even the staff at a hospital,” said Steines.
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Steines explained, “Our priority is to simply bring the patients comfort and joy and we hope that the children are able to escape the reality of their circumstances of being in a hospital even if only for a few minutes.” Not only are these visits rewarding and important to the patients, but also to Norbert and the other therapy dogs. “I think they have a sense about them to know that they are making a difference as well.” His signature move is giving high-fives to everyone he meets. “Every patient visit is unique and special in its own way, but the most memorable aspect for us is leaving the patient smiling who maybe wasn’t as happy prior to our visit,” said Steines. Norbert is also the inspiration behind the Norbert book series that Steines and her mother, Dr. Virginia Freyermuth, have written and published through their publishing and education company, Polly Parker Press. They were inspired by Norbert’s story of finding his unique purpose in life, and after two years, the book was published in 2013 and two more books were later added to the series. In addition to volunteering at CHLA, Norbert’s other philanthropic involvements include supporting Los Angeles Mission, Lil BUB’s BIG FUND for the ASPCA, Just for Kids Sake Foundation and Boot Campaign. Norbert truly does embody the belief that no matter how big or small you are, you can make a positive difference.
One way Julie motivates Norbert to take a quality photo is with food or his favorite treat, organic turkey.
PLAY TIME
When Julie’s husband, Mark Steines, is done taking pictures, Norbert likes to unwind by playing with stinky socks, his favorite play toy.
DAYS OFF
Norbert’s favorite activities include spreading smiles and therapy visits, eating and taking naps on people’s laps.
PAGE TURNER
Fans of Norbert’s books can look forward to two new books.
LOCALE
ROAD TRIP GUIDE
GET
LOST
HIT THE ROAD WITH OUR EXTREME ROAD TRIP GUIDE
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fter a long night of catching up with old friends, you decide a trip along the coast is just what this summer needs. You regroup to plan your trip and realize you’re not quite sure where to set your sites. Fear not! We’ve done the legwork and put together a guide to the perfect summer road trip, with a focus on only the most extreme things to do, see and eat. We’ll take you from San Diego, all the way up to San Francisco, plus a stop in Nevada, pointing out the best that the Golden State has to offer. So, buckle up, get Siri ready and prepare for the most extreme road trip of the year. WRITTEN BY: ASHLEE POLAREK GABRIELLE ABENOJA KARLI KARANDOS KEANA MCGRATH LYNDSAY MARVIN & QUINTAN VALLES
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EXTREME
KEY
GREEN Easy Does It
San Diego Sky Tours
Y E L LO W Proceed With Caution
BEACH CI T I ES
SAN DIEGO
Written By: Keana McGrath RED Don’t Forget a Change of Underwear
FACTS ABOUT THE CITY San Diego produces the most avocados in the United States. San Diego is considered the “birthplace” of California. In 2016, SD attracted 34.9 million visitors who spent an all-time $10.4 billion.
As you make your way down the Golden Coast, San Diego is a must stop! With several different beach towns, each with their own personality, this city is sure to satisfy any wanderluster’s taste for adventure. Starting north in La Jolla, this little town is known for its quiet and eclectic boutiques, sunbathing sea lions, beach caves and the bluest water that you’ll see in San Diego. Travel further south and you’ll come to Pacific and Mission Beach, both popular for their lively environments, drawing in party people looking for beachside bars and fun in the sun, making San Diego the perfect pit stop for sun-seekers and ocean-lovers.
INSTAGRAM WORTHY STOPS
Pose for the Camera and Post to the ‘Gram
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REACH FOR THE SKY
FEED YOUR WILD SIDE WITH THESE EXTREME ACTIVITIES
EXTREME LEVEL
EXTREME LEVEL
JETPACK ABOVE THE WATER
TAKE AN AEROBATIC THRILL TOUR
For our adventure seekers, Jetpack America uses hydro-flight equipment to give you the power to fly over the water! Jetpack America describes this as “like skydiving, jet skiing, parasailing and scuba diving all rolled into one!” By providing an alternative to the same old water sport activities, Jetpack America gives you the chance to take adventure to the skies, powered by water.
San Diego Sky Tours takes guests to the skies with private aerial tours of the city. With options for whale watching, panoramic city views and, if you’re feeling wild, an aerobatic thrill tour—Sky Tours highlights San Diego in a way like no other! All tours are FAA approved and piloted by Certified Flight Instructors, making it the ideal way for road-trippers on the go to get a unique adventure in the city.
Jetpack Session: $99-$179 Jetpack America 1010 Santa Clara Pl San Diego, CA 92109 888.553.6471 www.jetpackamerica.com
Belmont Park Mission Beach 3146 Mission Blvd San Diego, CA 92109
One Person: $170-$350 Up to Five People: $399 Premium Formation Flights and Air Combat: $800 and Up San Diego Sky Tours 3717 John J Montgomery Dr San Diego, CA 92123 619.757.6419 www.sandiegoskytours.com
Pigment’s Pink Wall 3801 30th St San Diego, CA 92104
EXTREME LEVEL
GO HANG GLIDING For our adrenaline junkies who favor the red side of the extreme meter, San Diego’s Torrey Pines Gliderport gives you literal wings and a bird’s eye view of La Jolla’s gorgeous Torrey Pines beach. With almost 100 years of aviation experience, Gliderport is the most historic aviation site in North America. With options to either paraglide or hang glide, Gliderport gives San Diegans and tourists a chance to see San Diego in a way like no other. Paragliding: $175 Hang Gliding: $225 Torrey Pines Gliderport 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr La Jolla, CA 92037 858.452.9858 www.flytorrey.com
“One Pointed Attention” Mural 7835 Ivanhoe Ave La Jolla, CA 92037
PHOTOS - Belmont Park: @shotbycole | Pigment’s Pink Wall: @eli_bang | “One Pointed Attention” Mural: @kelseybrookes | “Favorite Color” Mural: @muralsoflajolla | John Lennon Mural at Five Guys: @alyssawisser
SUITE LIFE
3 FOR THE ROAD
These are Must-Stop Foodie Pitstops
WHERE TO KICK YOUR FEET UP AFTER A LONG DAY
Voltaire Beach House Must Order: Smore’s Dip
LA VALENCIA HOTEL Since 1926, La Valencia Hotel, aka The Pink Lady of La Jolla, has been host to Hollywood royalty, travelers and locals in need of a little R&R by the stunning Pacific Ocean.
TOWER 23
For a higher-end and boutique hotel experience, Tower 23 gives vacationers sophisticated hospitality and oceanside views.
Native Knowledge: During World War II, hotel guests and locals used the spot to scan the skies for enemy planes or ships.
Native Knowledge: Their restaurant and bar, JRDN, offers a great sunset happy hour, with its dreamy environment and handcrafted cocktails.
1132 Prospect St La Jolla, CA 92037 858.454.0771 www.lavalencia.com
723 Felspar St San Diego, CA 92109 858.270.2323 www.t23hotel.com
SNACK ATTACK PACK THESE GOODIES TO ENJOY ON THE ROAD
your body gets tired of candy and other not-sohealthy road snacks, restore yourself from the inside out with one of the many revitalizing coldpressed juices from Sol-ti like the Chlorophyll Aloe Superade or the Watermelon Mint. www.solti.com a little too much fun last night and now you feel like sleep is your only friend and the light is your worst enemy. Next time, grab a Magic Bullet Hangover Eraser, which is designed to support your body in eliminating alcohol toxins so you feel ready to go the next day for round two. www.drinkmagicbullet.com
PERFECT BAR The name says it all. If you decide to avoid the bag of chips and go for a more nutritious option, Perfect Bar has you covered. They're gluten free, kosher, non-GMO, full of protein and have 20 super foods expertly hidden to keep you on track. www.perfectbar.com
“Favorite Color” Mural 7596 Eads Ave La Jolla, CA 92037
OB Surf Lodge
Must Order: Tahini Chicken Burger With panoramic views of the ocean, guests can dine with a view and watch the sunset after a long day of adventures. They’re famous for their classic Tahini Chicken Burger with feta cheese, cucumber, romaine, tomato, beet aioli on a whole wheat bun. obsurflodge.com
Oscar’s Mexican Seafood
SOL-TI When the sun drains your energy and
MAGIC BULLET We get it. You had
Eats, drinks and good vibes is what you’ll find when visiting Voltaire Beach House in Ocean Beach with its neighborhood feel and pup friendly patio. Soak in the sun by day with 20 local crafts on tap or sit fire-side by night while you indulge in a summer must: Smore’s Dip with warm chocolate ganache, marshmallows and, of course, graham crackers! voltairebeachhouse.com
Must Order: Fish Tacos
CATAMARAN HOTEL RESORT AND SPA
The Catamaran Hotel Resort and Spa’s Polynesian vibes and bay front views give guests the feeling of being on a tropical island, without actually having to travel miles away. Native Knowledge: The Catamaran is known for its parties! Over summer they have weekly Sunset Luaus with the famous Pride of Polynesia dancers, live music and an all you can eat buffet.
This little taco shop is known for the best fish tacos on this side of the border. Oscar’s is the ultimate go-to taco stop for a refreshing cerveza and fresh Mexican food. oscarsmexicanseafood.com
Must Order Drink: “Campfire” Cocktail from Voltaire Beach House q
3999 Mission Blvd San Diego, CA 92109 858.488.1081 www.catamaranresort.com
John Lennon Mural at Five Guys Garnet Ave between Cass and Dawes streets
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LOCALE ROAD TRIP GUIDE
7 ROAD TRIP DO’S AND DON’TS DO: Do have an itinerary Do stop to take selfies
DON’T: Don’t drink water an hour before your trip Don’t drive during rush hour Don’t pick up hitchhikers Don’t forget your wallet
SURF CI TY, USA
ORANGE COUNTY
Written By: Gabrielle Abenoja
You’re cruisin’ down California’s scenic Pacific Coast Highway and you found the perfect place to stop for the ultimate Southern Californian experience: Huntington Beach, better known as Surf City, USA. Shimmering ocean, the famous pier with Ruby’s at the end and a downtown area that provides endless amounts of fun things to do, see and, of course, chow down.
7835 Ivanhoe Ave La Jolla, CA 92037
INSTAGRAM WORTHY STOPS Snap It Like It’s Hot
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ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE SHENANIGANS FOR THE THRILL SEEKERS
EXTREME LEVEL
TAKE A SUP GLOW NIGHT TOUR Get daring after the sun sets. Explore the dark depths of the bay as an illuminated observer as you float quietly above the water on a glowing paddleboard, just inches away from local marine life. One Session: $45 Pirate Coast Paddle Company 1131 Back Bay Dr Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.278.0011 www.piratecoastpaddle.com
Stairs at The Camp 2937 Bristol St Costa Mesa, CA 92626
EXTREME LEVEL
EXTREME LEVEL
WRANGLE A BOA
GO PARASAILING
For your next adventure, amp up the wild and extreme factor. Beat your fear of snakes and head to Prehistoric Pets to hold a live Burmese python.
Let your breath get taken away by the stunning panoramic views of the Newport Coast. Enjoy the cool ocean breeze as you soar up to 800 feet above the water.
Hold a Burmese Python: $13 Prehistoric Pets 18822 Brookhurst St Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.500.0592 www.jurassicparties.com
The Lab 2930 Bristol St Costa Mesa, CA 92626
800 Foot Flight: $80 Balboa Parasail 600 E Bay Newport Beach, CA 92661 949.485.4665 www.balboaparasail.com
Lido Marina Village 3434 Via Lido Newport Beach, CA 92663
PHOTOS - Stairs at The Camp: @kokuafairtrade | The Lab: @audrianalorraine | Lido Marina Village: @lidomarinavillage
Do learn how to change a flat tire
Balboa Parasail
PHOTOS - Surfer Wall in Pacific City: Gil Cope | “Huntington Beach” Mural by Mark Paul Deren: @surfcityusa | Crystal Cove Tunnel: @seapieces | El Raspadito: Brianna Moss
SURF. SLEEP. REPEAT. GET RECHARGED AND REVITALIZED
FILL ‘ER UP
Grab These Plates While You’re on the Go
El Raspadito
Must Order: Hot Cheetos Elote
PASÉA HOTEL & SPA
You can’t start a California excursion without classic street food, such as an elote (or several elotes). Juicy, Mexican white corn cooked to perfection and slathered in a creamy, lime-spiked magic sauce topped with spicy sauce and crispy, spicy Flaming Hot Cheetos.
After a long day of travel, pull into Paséa and let yourself get pampered. It’s a laid back luxury hotel and spa located in the heart of Surf City. It’s the perfect end to a day of road trippin’. Native Knowledge: Get The Collection Facial. Deeply cleanse and balance the skin without distress. It’s the perfect way to calm stressed skin from your travels.
Tabu Shabu
Must Order: Sukiyaki Everything you want in one dish—veggies, noodles, rice and meat, meat, meat galore. Order the Sukiyaki base with your choice of beef, pork, chicken, lamb or fish and don’t forget the sake! Never forget the sake. tabushabu.com
21080 Pacific Coast Hwy Huntington Beach, CA 92648 844.814.2483 www.meritagecollection.com/ paseahotel
HUNTINGTON SURF INN
As the evening rolls in, rest your weary head in the legendary Huntington Surf Inn. With a unique design in each room, you’ll be sure to find the right one for you. Native Knowledge: A SoCal staple, the Huntington Surf Inn has been host to many local and international surfing celebrities. 720 Pacific Coast Hwy Huntington Beach, CA 92648 714.536.2444 www.huntingtonsurfinn.com
THE WATERFRONT BEACH RESORT
FACTS ABOUT THE CITY Huntington Dog Beach is home to the SoCal Corgi Beach Day.
Quench your thirst for a quintessential Californiastyle meal by overlooking the picturesque Pacific Ocean with Tanner’s Blackened Fish Tacos. tannershb.com
Get a 360-degree view of the ocean at Ruby’s Diner at the end of the Huntington Beach pier. Huntington Beach is trademarked as Surf City, USA.
Stay at The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel, in Huntington Beach and feel at home. Guest rooms with captivating ocean views and angled balconies, inhale the ocean breeze and exhale the days travel woes. Native Knowledge: Planning a wedding? The Waterfront Beach Resort is the perfect location; steps away from the beach, it’s a no-brainer.
Must Order Drink: Enchilosos with a Tamarido Chili Stick from El Raspadito u
21100 Pacific Coast Hwy Huntington Beach, CA 92648 714.845.8000 www.hilton.com
Surfer Wall in Pacific City 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Tanner’s
Must Order: Blackened Fish Tacos
“Huntington Beach” Mural by Mark Paul Deren Between 117 & 121 Main St Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Crystal Cove Tunnel Entrance located in the Lower Moro parking lot off of PCH
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LOCALE ROAD TRIP GUIDE
5 GOLF COURSES TO BOOK A TEE TIME Pack Your Clubs Because You Won’t Want to Miss These Golfing Destinations Classic Club 75-200 Classic Club Blvd Palm Desert, CA 92211 760.601.3600 classicclubgolf.com
SilverRock Resort 79179 Ahmanson Ln La Quinta, CA 92253 760.777.8884 silverrock.org Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa 44600 Indian Wells Ln Indian Wells, CA 92210 760.776.1234 indianwells.regency.hyatt. com Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa 45000 Indian Wells Ln Indian Wells, CA 92210 760.341.2200 miramonteresort.com
PALM SPRINGS Written By: Quintan Valles
No California road trip would be complete without a pass through the bright and beautiful city of Palm Springs. There’s just something about that diamond of the desert that pulls you in and makes you want to stay for a while to soak up the warm weather, rich culture and the spectacular sunbaked scenery. We have taken the liberty of mapping out the most exciting activities, the best bites and the sweetest places to stay in the city.
FEAR FACTOR
LET YOUR INNER BEAST LOOSE
EXTREME LEVEL
RIDE THE AERIAL TRAMWAY
The Indian Canyons hike is a beautiful example of natural landscape in the Greater Palm Springs area. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or simply need a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, it allows you to experience Native American culture and the breathtaking scenery of the desert landscape.
If you want to see Palm Springs, and I mean really see Palm Springs, then take a ride on the sky-bound Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. See the city and the surrounding natural landscape like never before as you and your pals ascend two-and-a-half miles in a rotating tramcar. So hop in and leave your cares, worries and fear of heights behind.
If you’re a dog lover with a penchant for the extreme, the Wolf Mountain Sanctuary is just the place for you. It is a nonprofit organization that seeks to preserve the wolf species and create a more complete understanding of these majestic creatures. Get your fill of furry friends that are kind of like your dog at home, if your dog was big, gray and could probably eat you.
Round trip ride: $25.95
One Hour Tour: $25
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway 1 Tram Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 888.515.8726 www.pstramway.com
Wolf Mountain Sanctuary 7520 Fairlane Rd Lucerne Valley, CA 92356 760.248.7818 www.wolfmountainsanctuary.net
Indian Canyons 38500 S Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.323.6018 www.indian-canyons.com
#NoFilter
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EXTREME LEVEL
HIKE AT INDIAN CANYONS
Admission: $9
INSTAGRAM WORTHY STOPS
EXTREME LEVEL
Cabazon Dinosaurs 50770 Seminole Dr Cabazon, CA 92230
Salvation Mountain Beal Rd Niland, CA 92257
PET WOLVES
That Pink Door 1100 E Sierra Way Palm Springs, CA 92264
PHOTOS - Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Amanda Proudfit | Cabazon Dinosaurs: Michael Wesley | Salvation Mountain: Taso Papadakis
Indian Wells Golf Resort 44-500 Indian Wells Ln Indian Wells, CA 92210 760.346.4653 indianwellsgolfresort.com
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
PHOTOS - Hyatt Palm Springs “Palm Springs” Wall: Provided by Hyatt Palm Springs | The Saguaro Palm Springs: @jeffmindell | The Parker Palm Springs: @fashionandfrill | That Pink Door: Sal Cavazos
DETOURS YOU CAN TASTE Eat in the Heat
Lulu California Bistro Must Order: California Norwegian Benedict
First up is Lulu California Bistro. The California Norwegian Benedict is a classic breakfast dish with a twist! Two poached eggs with avocado, smoked salmon and caviar atop a hash brown patty, finished with Hollandaise sauce and served with fresh fruit—can we go there now? lulupalmsprings.com
Las Casuelas Must Order: Chimichangas
If you have a hankering for some Mexican food (it is SoCal right?) then Las Casuelas is your go-to for a fiesta of flavors. Get you hands on one of their house specialty chimichangas filled with your choice of chicken or beef and topped with enchilada sauce, melted cheese, sliced almonds, chopped tomatoes, sour cream and guacamole— don’t worry, this time the guac isn’t extra. lascasuelas.com
DESERT DREAMING REST AWAY YOUR WORRIES ARRIVE PALM SPRINGS
If you want to relax in style while staying close to the action of Palm Springs city-life, then unpack your bags at ARRIVE Palm Springs. Located smackdab on Palm Canyon Drive, this hotel oozes Palm Springs culture with its edgy modernist swag. Native Knowledge: Every fourth Tuesday of the month, ARRIVE presents Dive-in Movie Nights, movies in the pool that are free and open to the public—Netflix and chill anyone? 1551 North Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.507.1650 www.arrivehotels.com
L’HORIZON
Once reserved as a destination for US presidents and Hollywood A-listers, this gem in the desert has been revamped by designer Steve Hermann to be a luxury resort with 25 customdesigned bungalows, all surrounded by the stunning mountains and landscape as a dramatic backdrop. Native Knowledge: Guests of the original property included Betty Grable, Marilyn Monroe, and Presidents Reagan and Nixon.
Wilma & Frieda’s
Must Order: Kim’s Banana Caramel French Toast We think Wilma & Frieda’s know how to do brunch the right way. Choose between the “Eany,” “Meany” or “Miney” options, all of which include two eggs and your choice of tasty sides. But, the banana French toast is a must try—drizzled with sour cream and caramel, this dish makes for an all around yummy choice. wilmafrieda.com
1050 E Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92264 760.323.1858 www.lhorizonpalmsprings.com
THE MONKEY TREE HOTEL
Reopened in 2016, this midcentury style former home of Albert Frey features a Scandinavian spa and sauna, and is in close range of Joshua Tree. With past guests like Eric Clapton and Lucille Ball, the Monkey Tree Hotel is a historic spot that history buffs will appreciate.
FACTS ABOUT THE CITY You can rent out Frank Sinatra’s original Palm Springs estate.
Native Knowledge: A JFK and Marilyn Monroe rendezvous took place at the hotel. It was guarded at the private entrance of their suite by the secret service.
The rotating tram cars at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway are the largest in the world.
2388 E Racquet Club Rd Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.322.6059 www.themonkeytreehotel.com
Hyatt Palm Springs “Palm Springs” Wall 285 N Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262
The Saguaro Palm Springs 1800 E Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92264
The Parker Palm Springs Geometric White Walls and Bright Orange Door 4200 E Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92264
Palm Springs is home to the largest cluster of midcentury modern residential architecture in the world.
LOCALE MAGAZINE 39
LOCALE ROAD TRIP GUIDE
6 ROAD TRIP APPS TO DOWNLOAD NOW
Fuelzee
Waze
Trapeze School New York, Los Angeles
SANTA MO NI CA iExit
Audible
LOS ANGELES
Spotify
TripIt
FACTS ABOUT THE CITY The Santa Monica Pier was originally created for the disposing of sewage. Santa Monica is named Silicon Beach for the various tech companies located there. The original ferris wheel was auctioned off to a bidder in Oklahoma City.
California is a state of endless beauty, from scorching deserts and towering ancient trees to the Golden Gate Bridge and the Hollywood Sign; there is no limit to the beauty the state has to offer and there is no better place to road trip than on the end of Route 66 in Santa Monica. This city is where authentic tacos and Ethiopian food can be consumed on the same day, but still the best part may be the fact that you don’t have to leave California to embark on an incredible road trip! Bon Voyage!
INSTAGRAM WORTHY STOPS Lights, Camera, Smile!
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BEAST MODE
GO HAM WITH THESE EXTREME EXPERIENCES
EXTREME LEVEL
EXTREME LEVEL
TAKE AN AERIAL PHYSIQUE CLASS
ROCK CLIMB IN THE DARK
Take an intro to Aerial Silk class with Aerial Physique. During the intro class students learn the basics including foot locks, inversion and climbing to step outside of your comfort zone. Good for flexibility and core strength, these classes are a great way to get in shape and begin your journey into the world of extreme.
Located in the historic 1904 Edison Steam Power Plant, Stronghold Climbing Gym offers an array of climbing options for the experienced and for newbies. Guests can choose top-roping, crack climbing or bouldering all in the dark! Be sure to check this spot out and don’t forget your headlamp.
First Class: $30 Aerial Physique 8717 Aviation Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90301 800.208.2246 www.aerialphysique.com
Pink Paul Smith Wall 8221 Melrose Ave Los Angeles, CA 90046
A Day Pass for Self-Supervised Climbers: $20 First Time Climbers Introductory Class: $35 Stronghold Climbing Gym 650 S Avenue 21 Los Angeles, CA 90031 323.505.7000 www.strongholdclimb.com
Carrera Cafe 8251 Melrose Ave Los Angeles, CA 90046
EXTREME LEVEL
FLY TRAPEZE Start on the pier, at the Trapeze School New York (TSNY) Los Angeles. The students are strapped into safety belts and take to the sky where you get to attempt your first trick—the knee hang. This is definitely an activity that will get your blood pumping and heart racing. Flying Trapeze Class: $55-$65 Trapeze School New York, Los Angeles 370 Santa Monica Pier Santa Monica, CA 90401 310.394.5800 www.losangeles.trapezeschool.com
Made in LA Wall at Cisco Home 8025 Melrose Ave Los Angeles, CA 90046
PHOTOS - Pink Paul Smith Wall: @melmattos | Carrera Cafe: @carreracafe | Made in LA Wall at Cisco Home: @britney.bowen
Written By: Ashlee Polarek
ROOM KEY TO THE SEA SIT BACK AND RELAX WITH AN OCEAN BREEZE
PHOTOS - The Brandy Melville “California” Wall: @alexandrainunes | Craig’s Restaurant: @dressedtomatch | Urban Light at Los Angeles County Museum of Art: @dilandeniz | SUGARFISH: Danielle Adams
THE VICEROY SANTA MONICA
The Viceroy Santa Monica offers guests a modern and sophisticated stay in a luxury hotel with sweeping views of both the ocean and the city. The hotel comes with top-notch amenities like beds topped with feather duvets and priority bike rentals making it easy to explore the Third Street Promenade nearby.
p To-Go Nozawa TRUST ME from SUGARFISH
BINGE WORTHY BITES
Take a Bite Out of These Delicious Dishes
Native Knowledge: TV shows like “Modern Family” have filmed at this gorgeous hotel proving just how photo worthy it is.
M Street Kitchen
1819 Ocean Ave Santa Monica, CA 90401 310.260.7500 www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/en/ santamonica
Must Order: English Muffin Burger
SHUTTERS ON THE BEACH
If you’re looking for a hotel that feels like a dream, then Shutters on the Beach is for you, equipped with rooms that are fit for royalty and steps away from the beach. After a day of road tripping, a stop at Shutters Spa is a perfect way to relax. Native Knowledge: On the first Friday of the month, nearby Abbot Kinney comes alive with food trucks, late night shopping and special happy hours. 1 Pico Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90405 310.458.0030 www.shuttersonthebeach.com
ROAD TRIP ESSENTIALS 1.
Car Charger
2.
Spare Keys
3.
Pillow
4.
PALIHOUSE SANTA MONICA
Waterbottle
5.
In operation since 1927, this Santa Monica historic landmark is designed to make your stay as authentic and original as the hotel itself.
Headphones
6.
Sunglasses
7.
Native Knowledge: If you get attached and don’t want to leave, the hotel offers a residency program for guests who want a longterm experience.
Sunscreen
8.
Camera
9.
1001 Third St Santa Monica, CA 90403 310.394.1279 www.palihousesantamonica.com
The Brandy Melville “California” Wall Located adjacent to the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica
10
Jumper Cables
10.
Napkins/Toilet Paper
Craig’s Restaurant 8826 Melrose Ave West Hollywood, CA 90069
M Street Kitchen’s real show stopper is the English Muffin Burger— avocado, charred tomato salsa, pepper jack cheese, a delicious patty and a homemade English muffin straight from their very own bakery. It’s homemade, delicious and can’t be matched anywhere else. mstreetkitchen.com
SUGARFISH
Must Order: To-Go Nozawa TRUST ME Stop at SUGARFISH if you want a sushi restaurant that pushes the boundaries. Here guests can choose from three simplified menus to ensure an unbelieveable sushi experience—you can’t go wrong with taking your meal to-go with the TRUST ME or LITE options. sugarfishsushi.com
Herringbone
Must Order: Lobster Flatbreads Top Chef finalist Brian Malarkey woos guests with dishes like Lobster Flatbread at Herringbone. On weekdays from 4:306:30 p.m. guests can indulge in $1 oysters, or $9 Margherita Flatbread during their Oyster Hour. herringboneeats.com
Urban Light at Los Angeles County Museum of Art 5905 Wilshire Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90036
LOCALE MAGAZINE 41
LOCALE ROAD TRIP GUIDE
5 MUSEUMS TO VISIT IN LAS VEGAS These Aren’t Your Average Museums
Mob Museum 300 Stewart Ave Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.229.2734 themobmuseum.org Natural History Museum 900 N Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.384.3466 lvnhm.org Erotic Heritage Museum 3275 Sammy Davis Jr Dr Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.794.4000 eroticmuseumvegas.com Madame Tussauds 3377 S Las Vegas Blvd, Ste 2001 Las Vegas, NV 89109 866.841.3739 madametussauds.com
Topgolf
LAS VEGAS Written By: Lyndsay Marvin
When tourists think of Las Vegas, they think of The Strip. However, Downtown Las Vegas has been getting a fabulous makeover and is quickly becoming the place to be. It’s not only home to the Arts District, extreme adventures, modern hotels and trendy restaurants, but also fun and unique activities like Topgolf and ATV rides! After a long day of traveling, you’ll want to rest up at hotels that offer modernized amenities, which Downtown is full of. There’s also an extensive variety of food and drinks in this area, which will fill you up before you continue on to your next road trip destination.
INSTAGRAM WORTHY STOPS Get Your Likes Up
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HIGH ROLLER
TEST YOUR LUCK WITH THESE EXTREME ADVENTURES
EXTREME LEVEL
PRACTICE YOUR GOLF SWING If you’re looking for somewhere to hit golf balls in a climate-controlled “bay,” while eating good food and drinking great beer, you’ll want to visit Topgolf (located inside the MGM Grand). Topgolf has two pools, five bars and a concert venue to ensure a great time. One Hour Session: $30-$90 Topgolf 4627 Koval Ln Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.933.8458 www.topgolf.com
Seven Magic Mountains S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89054
EXTREME LEVEL
GET MARRIED What better way to say “Viva Las Vegas” than with a Taco Bell wedding? Taco Bell Cantina is offering weddings at their flagship restaurant, complete with a private ceremony, an ordained officiate, a private reception for 15 people and so much more!
EXTREME LEVEL
OFF-ROAD WITH AN ATV AND SHOOTING TOUR For the ultimate Vegas desert experience, book a reservation for the ATV and Shooting Tour. This tour includes a three-hour ATV tour through Lake Mead National Park, swimming in the Colorado River, a shooting package and more.
Wedding: $600
Tours Start at $231
Taco Bell Cantina 3717 S Las Vegas Blvd, Ste 140-A Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.272.2422 www.tacobell.com/feed/how-toget-married
Las Vegas ATV Tours 3113 W Tompkins Ave Las Vegas, NV 89103 702.825.1411 www.lasvegasatvs.com
Downtown Container Park 707 E Fremont St Las Vegas, NV 89101
Bicicleta Sem Freio Mural On 7th and Fremont Street
PHOTOS - Seven Magic Mountains: @pantone | Downtown Container Park: @mermaidinheels | Bicicleta Sem Freio Mural: @chadmrodgers
Neon Museum 770 N Las Vegas Boulevard Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.387.6366 neonmuseum.org
PHOTOS - The High Roller at The Linq Hotel & Casino: @highrollervegas | ”Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” Sign: @tereza_todorovva | D*Face Mural on 7th Street Wall of Cabana Suites: @iam_mikejones | Cabana Suites: Provided by El Cortez Hotel & Casino
DINE & DRIVE
Get Your Grub on at These Three Foodie Destinations
NO VACANCY CHILLAX AT THESE DREAM-WORTHY HOTELS
Triple George Grill
Must Order: Ribeye Steak Triple George Grill in downtown Las Vegas is best-known for its power lunches, which makes it the perfect pit stop for a bite to eat. Order the 16-ounce Ribeye Steak that almost melts in your mouth and has been aged for 30 days. triplegeorgegrill.com
Park on Fremont Must Order: Garbage Fries
Park on Fremont, a hip and rustic gastropub, is a Las Vegas favorite. Their Garbage Fries are about to become your new favorite guilty pleasure— fries with cheddar and provolone cheese melted on top and plenty of toppings including bacon, jalapeños, green onions, tomatoes, avocado, chipotle ranch and a fried egg. parkonfremont.com
DOWNTOWN GRAND HOTEL & CASINO LAS VEGAS
Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino Las Vegas offers modern, brightly colored rooms and the iconic 35,000 square foot Citrus Grand Pool Deck, creating a great place to make a splash and to unwind. Native Knowledge: Reserve The Big Squeeze and you’ll receive a room and a nightly $50 food and beverage credit to use at the Citrus Grand Pool Deck. 206 N 3rd St Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.953.4343 www.downtowngrand.com
OASIS AT GOLD SPIKE
Oasis at Gold Spike is a beautiful boutique hotel that screams modern living. With in-room dining, a 24 hour bar and restaurant, bike rentals and more, Oasis is the perfect destination for a road tripper looking for a place to crash comfortably.
Carson Kitchen
Must Order: Crispy Chicken Skins If you’re looking for a casual place to sit back while dining on classic American comfort food, look no further than Carson Kitchen. Order a plate of the Crispy Chicken Skins for a delicious snack that will make you wish you could eat here every day. carsonkitchen.com
Native Knowledge: Oasis is a nongaming and non-smoking hotel. 217 N Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.768.9823 www.oasisatgoldspike.com
5 TIPS ON HOW TO SURVIVE A NIGHT IN LV Thank Us Later Put flats in your purse Drink Magic Bullet for hangovers
CABANA SUITES
Crispy Chicken Skins from Carson Kitchen q
Located in the heart of the Downtown Fremont Street East District, the Cabana Suites allows you to relax and unwind at the pool, have a nightcap at their bars and stay in beautiful, trendy rooms.
Put your room number in your phone Add friends in Find My Friends
Native Knowledge: Cabana Suites features an art exhibition space. 651 E Ogden Ave Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.385.5200 www.elcortezhotelcasino.com/ hotel/cabana-suites
FACTS ABOUT THE CITY Over 41 million people visit Las Vegas each year. Las Vegas is considered the brightest spot on Earth.
The High Roller at The Linq Hotel & Casino 3545 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89109
”Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” Sign 5200 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89119
D*Face Mural on 7th Street Wall of Cabana Suites 651 E Ogden Ave Las Vegas, NV 89101
Over 300 weddings happen every day in Las Vegas.
LOCALE MAGAZINE 43
LOCALE ROAD TRIP GUIDE
10 SONGS FOR YOUR ROAD TRIP PLAYLIST Download These Songs ASAP Shut Up and Drive Rihanna Up & Away Ballooning
Wouldn’t It Be Nice The Beach Boys
The Motto Drake
NO RTH BEACH
SAN FRANCISCO
Written By: Karli Karandos
Hotel California Eagles (You Drive Me) Crazy Britney Spears California Gurls Katy Perry Going Back to Cali The Notorious B.I.G. Life is a Highway Rascal Flatts I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing Aerosmith
Fact: there is no better time of year to take a perfect road trip than the summer. Here’s your guide to road-tripping through North Beach—San Francisco’s must-see neighborhood most popular for its lively and sultry bars, electric nightlife, quaint cafés, independent bookshops, galleries, musical performances and much more. It is an area adored by both tourists and residents, making it a necessary stop for anyone passing through. Get your suitcase ready and make your way to North Beach!
INSTAGRAM WORTHY STOPS
Boost Your Following With These Backdrops
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ADRENALINE JUNKIE GET ELEVATED WITH THESE WILD RIDES
EXTREME LEVEL
EXTREME LEVEL
TAKE A HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE
CLIMB THE BEAVER STREET WALL
Catch spectacular views from the sky with a balloon ride over wine country! Hot air balloon rides are a popular activity in the Bay Area, with its boundless vineyards and open land. Not too far from the city, Up & Away Ballooning offers packages with state-of-the-art baskets and a post-flight breakfast waiting for you when you land.
Imagine rock climbing right in the heart of San Francisco! The 45 foot Beaver Street Wall offers just that opportunity and is a part of the city’s Corona Heights park system, so no permit needed. All that is required is your climbing equipment and a little sense of adventure.
Per Passenger: $239 Up & Away Ballooning 2200 Airport Blvd Santa Rosa, CA 95403 707.836.0171 www.up-away.com
Lombard Street Russian Hill Between Hyde St and Leavenworth St
Free Beaver Street Wall 185 Beaver St San Francisco, CA 94114 www.sfrecpark.org
Fairmont Hotel Roof Gardens 950 Mason St San Francisco, CA 94108
EXTREME LEVEL
BUNGEE JUMP San Francisco is a city famous for its bridges—one big, red one in particular. How about exploring the area by bungee jumping off of one? Icarus Bungee coordinates bungee jumping expeditions at various bridges all located within a short drive from the city. Two Jumps Per Person: $139 Icarus Bungee 1415 Webster St, Unit 801 Alameda, CA 94501 510.521.5867 www.icarusbungee.com
Painted Ladies Steiner St San Francisco, CA 94117
PHOTOS - Lombard Street: @goto.california | Fairmont Hotel Roof Gardens: @ayaissa | Painted Ladies: @tuckemel | Clarion Alley: @chantellepaige
California Love 2Pac
PHOTOS - SFMOMA Living Wall: @rip_livingston | Jack Kerouac Alley: @ethenz | Up & Away: Provided by Up & Away | Omni San Francisco Hotel: Provided by Omni Hotels & Resorts
GOLDEN GETAWAY YOU’VE GOT THE GOLDEN KEY MUNCH-ABUNCH
Get Your Fill at These Tasty Spots
Tony’s Pizza Napoletana
Must Order: Margherita Pizza Located in the heart of San Francisco’s North Beach, the city’s Little Italy, is Tony’s. Nothing refuels the body after an extreme adventure like loading up on pizza and pasta carbs! tonyspizzanapoletana.com
Fog Harbor Fish House
Must Order: Cioppino
OMNI SAN FRANCISCO HOTEL
This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of downtown and provides a full list of guest services. Feeling burnt out on driving? Hop on the historic cable car, which stops right on the street corner outside the hotel. Native Knowledge: The hotel offers complimentary guided walking tours every Saturday at 10 a.m. to all of their guests. 500 California St San Francisco, CA 94104 415.677.9494 www.omnihotels.com
Enjoy sights of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and the bay while you dine on the Cioppino at the Fog Harbor Fish House located on the famous Fisherman’s Wharf. fogharbor.com
HOTEL ZOE
Nestled near the romantic Fisherman’s Wharf is Hotel Zoe, a cozy boutique hotel. Best part? You won’t need to venture far to have a good time! Native Knowledge: This hotel was named after Giuseppe Cammellome, an immigrant to the city who became known as “The Tuscan” and King Fisherman of the Wharf before changing to Hotel Zoe.
Mama’s
Must Order: Dungeness Crab Benedict The most important meal is breakfast, especially for adventurers. Mama’s is famous for their breakfast menu, including the Dungeness Crab Benedict! mamas-sf.com
425 N Point St San Francisco, CA 94133 415.561.1100 www.hotelzoesf.com
5 POPPIN’ PODCASTS Gain Some Knowledge on Your Drive Serial Missing Richard Simmons
PIER 2620 HOTEL
TED Radio Hour
The design of this classic hotel, located in Fisherman’s Wharf, is eco-friendly, clean and comfortable, so a guiltfree good night’s sleep is guaranteed!
Cioppino from Fog Harbor Fish House q
Stuff You Should Know 2 Dope Queens
Native Knowledge: If you wake up hungry from yesterday’s travels, you’ll be able to binge on a full breakfast buffet that’s included in your $30 Urban Fee.
FACTS ABOUT THE CITY
2620 Jones St San Francisco, CA 94133 415.885.4700 www.pier2620hotel.com
The area around North Beach used to be the city’s red light district. North Beach is home to San Francisco’s Little Italy.
Clarion Alley Between Mission St and Valencia St and 17th St and 18th St
SFMOMA Living Wall 151 3rd St San Francisco, CA 94103
Jack Kerouac Alley Between Grant and Columbus Ave
The area was a beach until the late 19th century when it became a landfill.
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GO/DO
Up-and-coming singer Mario Jose’s talent is undeniable. After growing up in San Francisco, the Bay Area native went on to study music at Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. “Studying music was very important to me because I wanted to leave a musician, and in the music world, there’s such a stigma of instrumentalists being musicians, that singers can’t be musicians or that they're not titled musicians. That was one of the biggest things I’ve fought for and wanted to do in college,” said Jose.
LOCAL SOUND:
Mario Jose This Up-and-Comer is On the Rise to Stardom WRITTEN BY: REBECCA GRAZIER PHOTOGRAPHED BY: TRAVIS MCCOY
Growing up in a home with two musicians, his mother a singer and his father a trombone player, music has always driven Jose. The first recording his parents have of him singing was when he was a little over two years old, singing Disney songs with his dictaphone. “It was so funny because my mom came in the room, and then she’s like, ‘Sing for mommy,’ and I was like, ‘No,’” said Jose. “Then I even stopped because I am definitely a learn-by-example guy, even to this day, so I remember listening to my mom sing and then I’d try to emulate her.” After graduating from Berklee, Jose moved to Los Angeles and was featured on several national TV shows including NBC’s “The SingOff,” ABC’s “Duets” with John Legend and “American Idol.”
able to raise over $35,000 with the help of 473 backers, including his friend, Meghan Trainor, who made a video on YouTube asking fans to help support his goal. Jose’s first EP was titled Heart of Gold, and it was then that he really dove into songwriting. It all started with the co-writer of “Tell Me Now,” a single from his EP. “JP Saxe came to one of my shows where I did all covers. He said, ‘You sound great, I absolutely love you, but I don’t know who you are. You can tell a story, but it’s not your story. I wanna know your story,’” said Jose. So they got into the studio and wrote Jose’s single “Tell Me Now,” which is about unrequited love. “He sat down at the piano and was kind of playing some chords, and he’s like, ‘What are you going through?’ And at the time, I’d fallen for someone that didn’t love me back in that way, and I was confused. So this whole song was talking about unrequited love and wanting to know where they’re at, and you think you’re on the same page, and they’re not,” said Jose. In the summer of 2017, Jose toured with singersongwriter Travis Atreo, and the acapella group, The Filharmonic for The Heart, Hope & Love Tour. So, keep an ear out, because this star is undoubtedly on the rise.
In July 2016, Jose created a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for his first EP, and was
FIRST ENCOUNTERS NEXT TO GREATNESS
Jose has shared the stage and studio with icons like Pentatonix, Prince, Justin Bieber and Meghan Trainor.
LOCALS KNOW BEST
Up-and-coming singer Mario Jose’s talent is undeniable.
The first thing Jose said to Meghan Trainor when he met her at a Rita Ora concert was, “F—you, Meghan Trainor!” Trainor responded by saying “F—me? F—you!’’ They’ve been great friends ever since.
Jose’s favorite places in LA include Aroma Coffee & Tea Company, where he likes to bring his visiting friends and family, and Wurstküche Restaurant Venice.
MARIO JOSE www.mariojosemusic.com @heyitsmariojose Photoshoot Location: ENDEAVOR STUDIOS LA Los Angeles, CA www.endeavorstudiosla.com
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LOCALE MAGAZINE
PHOTO BY: JOE NARDELLO
GO/DO EXPERTS
I’M
DIFFERENT
www.usawaterpolo.org | Photoshoot Location: Hermosa’s Great Wave Mural Hermosa Ave & 14th St, N Facing Wall, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
YEAH, I’M DIFFERENT
FROM BEEKEEPERS TO OLYMPIC COACHES, THESE SEVEN EXPERTS ARE THE MOVERS AND SHAKERS OF LOS ANGELES WRITTEN BY: ASHLEE POLAREK PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ARELI GONZALEZ ALICIA CHO JARED SCHLACHET & JOE MAGNANI JOE NARDELLO MATTIA CAZZOLA & TASO PAPADAKIS
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WARNING:
what you’re about to read may inspire you to spend the rest of your summer saving bees, paddle boarding, or checking out the next blockbuster. The following individuals are here to help keep Southern California interesting. Whether it's keeping thousands of bees, spending the day teaching SUP Yoga, coaching the USA Women’s Olympic Water Polo team to gold, managing luxury movie theaters, promoting the Catalina Express, running an adultsonly sleepaway camp, or keeping Manhattan Beach filled with arts, parks and activities, they keep busy in unique ways. As you search for something new or exciting to do this summer, perhaps one of these inspiring experts will spark an idea that will rock your summer all season long.
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JEREMY JENSEN
PRESIDENT OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY BEEKEEPERS ASSOCIATION Q: How did you get into the beekeeping industry? Jeremy Jenson: I started beekeeping when I was a high school student. I was in the 10th grade and I heard about the bee colony collapse and I thought ‘Oh my gosh! The beehives are collapsing; this is a big issue in the environment, I can do something about that!’ Around that time I needed to get a job, so I figured I could get a job helping the bees out. That’s how I got started. I went out and removed beehives from houses and bought
beehives and I propagated the hives. From there, I kept trying to get more bees to do my part to increase the bee population. Q: What is your favorite part of being a beekeeper? JJ: I love spending everyday outside, seeing how beautiful nature is and seeing how the bees go out and they collect and make delicious honey. I think animal husbandry is beautiful, the relationship between the keeper and his hives and being able to help the colonies and know what they need.
JJJ Bees www.jjjbees.com Photoshoot Location: Los Angeles, CA
DANIEL ATKINS
Photos - JJJ Bees: Jared Schlachet & Joe Magnani | Cinépolis: Mattia Cazzola
GENERAL MANAGER, WESTLAKE VILLAGE CINÉPOLIS
Q: How can people help out with the current bee crisis? JJ: The easiest way for people to get involved is to plant bee-friendly plants in their yards and gardens. Lavender, sage, and buckwheat are all bee-friendly plants. Planting bee friendly plants is really helpful for the population. Q: How is LA County Beekeepers involved with the community? JJ: We do all kinds of community outreach. We do community events and fairs. There was a zoo day, and they had all kinds of different pollinators there so we went. We also do the LA County Fair every year. We see thousands of school kids who come and we tell them about bees and we show them an observation hive and the queen. They get to try honey. Q: What inspires you to continue working with the bees? JJ: Whenever I open a beehive and look in and see that they are healthy, and happy and bringing in lots of honey and they have lots of babies being born. I love it. Seeing a healthy bee hive makes me want to open another one or look at another one.
Q: What is your role at Cinépolis? Daniel Atkins: I oversee the operations from top to bottom. There is much more involved in our scope of work than what meets the eye. From projections and food service, to housekeeping and building maintenance, we do our best to execute as efficiently as possible so our guests can enjoy a wonderful time with us.
“I LOVE SPENDING EVERYDAY OUTSIDE, SEEING HOW BEAUTIFUL NATURE IS AND SEEING HOW THE BEES GO OUT AND THEY COLLECT AND MAKE DELICIOUS HONEY.” —Jeremy Jensen
Q: What makes Cinépolis so unique? DA: It’s one of the front runners in creating an immersive subversive and elevated moviegoing experience. Westlake in particular has perfected gourmet food, and we have luxury reclining chairs. Q: Is there a menu item that everyone loves? DA: Everyone loves our Ultimate Burger. It’s one of the best burgers I’ve ever had. It has a grass-fed beef patty, American cheese, caramelized onions and
smoked bacon with a spicy aioli. Another one is our Sriracha Chicken Flatbread pizza that’s made with grilled chicken, mozzarella, and house made barbecue-Sriracha sauce—it just melts in your mouth. Q: How does Cinépolis work with or give to the community? DA: One of our programs ‘Let’s All Go to the Movies,’ aims at spreading smiles by treating students from underprivileged communities to special complementary film screenings, lunch and filmthemed activities. Q: How do you take your popcorn? DA: I’m the extra butter guy, I like it layered throughout the whole bucket. Some of our other locations have Cheetos popcorn. So, they pop the popcorn and then they put a special Cheetos mixture in it, then they mix it with actual Cheetos. It’s unbelievable.
Cinépolis 180 Promenade Way, Westlake Village, CA 91362 805.413.8838 | www.cinepolisusa.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 51
“MY FAVORITE BOAT IS THE CATALINA JET, WHICH HOLDS UP TO 450 PEOPLE AND FEELS LIKE SUCH A SMOOTH RIDE.” —ANGELA PUCHALA
Catalina Express Berth 95 San Pedro, CA 90731 800.995.4386 www.catalinaexpress.com Photoshoot Location: 320 Golden Shore Long Beach, CA 90802
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Photos - Catalina Express: Alicia Cho | Adam Krikorian: Joe Nardello
ADAM KRIKORIAN USA OLYMPIC WOMEN’S WATER POLO HEAD COACH
ANGELA PUCHALA
HEAD OF MARKETING FOR THE CATALINA EXPRESS Q: What is your favorite thing to do on Catalina? AP: I’m an outdoorsy person. I really like to do any hikes and go into to the interior of the island. They have a Conservancy Jeep Tour, and that takes you into the interior of the island, which is so rustic and untouched. It’s such a different feeling to see wildlife, such as the Catalina fox and bison, they just roam free, without fear. I’m a total foodie! Catalina has its own Restaurant Week, Taste Around of Avalon and Taste of Catalina Food Tours, which are the funnest ways to get to know people and taste the dishes from different restaurants around the island. Q: How often are you on the Catalina Express boats, and do you have a favorite? AP: I go almost once a week. We have these amazing boats and up to 30 departures daily, so it’s easy to get out to the island. They’re catamarans, so it’s a smoother ride, and those are my favorite. My favorite boat is the Catalina Jet, which holds up to 450 people and feels like such a smooth ride.
“I’M A TOTAL FOODIE! CATALINA HAS ITS OWN RESTAURANT WEEK, TASTE AROUND OF AVALON AND TASTE OF CATALINA FOOD TOURS, WHICH ARE THE FUNNEST WAYS TO GET TO KNOW PEOPLE AND TASTE THE DISHES FROM DIFFERENT RESTAURANTS AROUND THE ISLAND.” —Angela Puchala
Q: If you could take a boat anywhere in the world where would it be? AP: I think I would go to Tahiti because of the water, or I would go to Thailand because there are so many beautiful islands there. It would be fun to hop back and forth on a boat and see it from that perspective. Q: What tips would you give someone who is visiting Catalina for the first time? AP: Pick up a Catalina Express Magazine and plan ahead. There are so many things to do on the island, and a lot of people that come for the first time don’t know what they want to do, and then they get overwhelmed. Plan ahead. There are so many activities, and you want to get the most out of your day or stay. Q: When is your favorite time to be on the island? AP: My favorite time to be on the island is September because it’s a little slower. Catalina is a desert island, so you still have that beautiful hot weather and the water is still warm. Summer is always busy and fun on the island, but there are events yearround, so it is easy to find a reason to come out.
Q: How did you get into waterpolo? Adam Krikorian: I had two older brothers growing up in Northern California, and we all started as swimmers. My two older brothers went from swimming to playing water polo once they got into high school. They were my role models growing up, I wanted to be just like them. When they chose water polo it was very simple for me, I was going to be a water polo player. My oldest brother went to UCLA and played water polo and that’s what I did. The rest is history. Q: Who inspires you to continue coaching? AK: For me, it’s all about the people. I really enjoy relationships and getting to know the people I work with whether it’s the staff or the athletes. They are really the ones who inspire me to continue to coach and bring my best everyday. In that respect, I’m very fortunate that I’m surrounded by quality people. There’s no jerks in our program, everyone is first class and that makes my job so much more enjoyable. Q: Do you play water polo for fun anymore? AK: Well, what’s the old line? ‘Do as I say not as I do.’ Our sport requires being in incredible shape. I am not in bad shape, but I’m not in a position to play the sport. If I want my athletes to do the things I expect them to do, the last thing I want is for them to
see me do the things that I can’t do. Plus, I’m a little crazy competitive, so sometimes when I get in the water a bit of a dark side comes out, I don’t think it needs to be seen anymore. Q: Where is your favorite place to compete? AK: The best place to compete is anywhere in the States. We travel a ton internationally. We enjoy traveling as a group because it’s the best chance for us as a team to bond and build those relationships that are really important. At the end of the day, I think we would all prefer to play at home in front of our family and friends. Outside of that, and there’s nothing that tops it, playing at the Olympic Games. It doesn’t matter what city or where it is. Taking part and being in that atmosphere and that energy, there is nothing quite like it. Q: What are some words of encouragement you give your team before they compete? AK: I think it’s a mistake to think that what you say right before a competition is going to impact your team that strongly, either positively or negatively. What’s more important and what is undervalued are the messages that you consistently spread over the course of the time that you have together. It’s not the one speech that is going to make a difference; it’s the continual message. It’s not a one time thing; it’s what you do every single day.
“IT’S NOT THE ONE SPEECH THAT IS GOING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE; IT’S THE CONTINUAL MESSAGE. IT'S NOT A ONE TIME THING; IT'S WHAT YOU DO EVERY SINGLE DAY.” —Adam Krikorian
www.usawaterpolo.org Photoshoot Location: Hermosa’s Great Wave Mural Hermosa Ave & 14th St, N Facing Wall Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 LOCALE MAGAZINE 53
SARAH TIEFENTHALER CREATOR OF YOGAQUA Q: When did you know this is what you wanted to do with your life? Sarah Tiefenthaler: I think I realized the first time I attempted a pose on a paddleboard. I was already training to be a yoga teacher on land, and during this process I somehow discovered paddleboarding. I made a joke about doing a pose on the board, I really wasn't being serious when I came up with the idea, but I tried it and I guess I knew it was something special. I kept going out week after week developing sequences on the board and customizing poses. So I started putting a business plan together. Q: What is your biggest tip for beginners? ST: Don’t overthink it. Come ready to have fun. I think people get intimidated when they see the photos we post doing all these crazy poses, but we’re on the water all the time. For beginners, forget all that, come out, be prepared to have fun, don’t expect to do everything perfectly. That’s not what it’s about. Q: What was the most transformative part of your teacher training in Costa Rica? ST: Before Costa Rica, I was practicing yoga at a local studio, and I was having these really amazing meditative experiences at the end of class. It wasn’t something I was familiar with. It was
something I had to study after. At the time, I attributed the feeling and the experience to the studio and the teacher, like it was all thanks to them. But when I stepped away and went to Costa Rica for a month and was meditating every morning, I began to have those same experiences all on my own. It was the moment I realized that I could create this wonderful feeling and meditative experience of bliss. I realized it was me; it was in me. Q: Where is your favorite place to teach yoga abroad? ST: I would have to say Whistler in British Columbia. You’re on a perfectly calm lake, surrounded by mountains, and you might see a Bald Eagle fly over your class. It’s just perfectly peaceful, especially first thing in the morning before everyone else arrives. It’s just you and the class listening to the water and the breeze and feeling the sun on your skin. Q: How would you describe your experience on Remote Survival? ST: It's funny, my guide all throughout that was trying to get a rise out of me and he never could. Even when it was hard, even when it hurt, even when I was desperate for water I just went along with it and I think that bugged him. I think having this job and lifestyle kept me calm.
MARK LEYMAN DIRECTOR OF THE MANHATTAN BEACH PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
YOGAqua 13977 Palawan Way Marina Del Rey, CA 90292 805.283.9642 www.yogaqua.com
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Q: What is is that you do? Mark Leyman: More philosophically, I help to create a community. Parks and Recreation helps to build and create the fabric of the community. But, more technically, I oversee the Manhattan Beach Parks and Recreation department which provides programming for all ages through sports, aquatics, recreation services, cultural arts, transportation,
older adult programs and special events ranging from our Family Campout and Movie Nights to the Manhattan Beach Open Volleyball Tournament and Pumpkin Races. Q: Do you have a favorite program that you are especially fond of? ML: I love them all equally, but began my career at a senior center, so older adults are near and dear to my heart.
Photos - YOGAqua: Taso Papadakis | Manhattan Beach Parks and Recreation: Joe Nardello | Camp No Counselors: Areli Gonzalez
ADAM TICHAUER FOUNDER OF CAMP NO COUNSELORS
Manhattan Beach Parks and Recreation 1400 Highland Ave Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 310.802.5400 www.citymb.info
Q: What makes your Cultural Arts Division unique? ML: We have a fairly new cultural arts team that has reenergized the arts programs in Manhattan Beach. A unique feature that we have is a ceramic studio; we also have an art exhibition and an art center. We’ve had a number of spectacular artists recently, including Ed Moses and John Van Hamersveld. Q: Where is your favorite place to go after a long day in the office? ML: Home. Honestly, it would be home. I have a 10-year-old son and I just really enjoy spending time with him and my wife. Q: What do you think the future holds for Manhattan Beach Parks and Recreation? MK: The future is bright for Parks and Recreation in the City of Manhattan Beach. We have an incredible team that continues to innovate and create a wide range of programs for all ages and abilities. We enjoy the challenge of continuously improving and looking for ways to provide the best Recreation programs.
“WE HAVE AN INCREDIBLE TEAM THAT CONTINUES TO INNOVATE AND CREATE A WIDE RANGE OF PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES.” —Mark Leyman
Q: What inspired CNC? Adam Tichauer: I found that it was becoming harder and harder to gather my group of friends in NYC. I was working around the clock for a company that I no longer had a passion for. I needed to recharge, get out of the city, get off my phone and have a fun weekend. I knew that only an outlandish idea would get enough support from my whole group of friends to actually happen, so I rented out a summer camp. What started as a small weekend getaway with my closest friends quickly became a 90-person event as the word spread. I hosted a second camp six months later, and even more people came. At that point, I knew it was something special so I went full time on what initially was just a fun side project. Q: What makes CNC different from the camps of childhood? AT: The open bar is the obvious aspect, but I truly feel the biggest
difference is that we give our campers the freedom to do whatever they want throughout the weekend. It is ‘choose your own’ adventure, where there are no counselors telling what you have to do or where you need to be. Q: What is one thing everyone must do at Camp No Counselors? AT: The Slip-N-Flip. It is a 100-foot long slip-nslide into a game of flip cup where all 200 plus campers participate. Even if you don't drink, you can participate and have the time of your life without a care in the world. Q: What CNC activity do you personally like participating in? AT: Personally, Color War. It's the part of the camp where everyone competes in arts and athletic competitions and everyone’s true colors come out. Q: If you had to describe CNC in three words, what would they be? AT: Laughter, friendship and escape.
Camp No Counselors www.campnocounselors.com | @campnocounselors Photoshoot Location: Griffith Park 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027 323.913.4688 | www.laparks.org/griffithpark LOCALE MAGAZINE 55
GO/DO
IT GIRL AL E X I S J ON ES Dishes on the Importance of Female Empowerment WRITTEN BY: SHONETTE REED PHOTOGRAPHED BY: RYAN HENSLEY
AN OPEN BOOK ¢ In 2014, Jones’ book “I Am That Girl: How To Speak Your Truth, Discover Your Purpose, and #bethatgirl” was published. The book, according to Jones, serves as a guide and her way of sharing what was inside of her.
BREAKING BOUNDARIES ¢ After speaking on an ESPNU show called “Elite 11,” which focused on empowering men while teaching them to respect women, Jones launched her country wide locker room speaking tour “ProtectHer: Redefining MANHOOD.”
Alexis Jones’ Twitter bio boasts her love for getting “to inspire change for a living.” And with her organization I AM THAT GIRL, that’s exactly what she gets a chance to do every single day. When Jones began I AM THAT GIRL at 19-years-old while at USC, she had no idea that she was on the road to entrepreneurship. Her goal was to create something that empowered girls and put their insecurities to rest. Through a series of what she calls “bad ideas” and talking through her target audience with a friend, Jones came up with the name I AM THAT GIRL. The nonprofit serves over 1 million girls in 20 different countries.
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about herself. It was through that experience that she began to question culture. Despite her modeling career, Jones describes herself as a tomboy. “I don’t spend too much time wondering how I’m perceived by other women,” Jones shared. “Whether or not people agreed or [thought] that was dangerous, that’s who I am.” Not being concerned with what others think has benefitted her. Since the launch of her nonprofit, Jones has taken on many opportunities to spread the word about I AM THAT GIRL, including writing her own book and empowering young men in addition to young women.
“I think the whole [reason] I started it [was] because I needed it,” Jones said. “I grew up with a lot of insecurities; I venture to say like most girls. I needed a support group for badass girls who could remind me that I was badass.”
“Boys struggle just as much as girls and they need a safe place to talk about things that matter. There’s a need to include boys in the conversation,” Jones said. “A big goal would be to help broaden the definition of manhood and provide a healthy definition of masculinity.”
Jones grew up in Austin, TX, with four older brothers, and by the age of 11 started modeling. Her modeling career created a distorted view of beauty. Her experience often involved being compared to other people, and as she searched for her ideal image of a woman, Jones realized that this didn’t make her feel good
Through it all, Jones’ goals for this year include building the community that surrounds her nonprofit and is even holding a three-day leadership workshop this summer for 300 of their top leaders. Jones has done more than creating an organization that empowers people, she has modeled it in her own life.
“I needed a support group for badass girls who could remind me that I was badass.” —Alexis Jones
ALEXIS JONES www.alexisjones.com @missalexisjones Photoshoot Location: M STREET KITCHEN 2000 Main St Santa Monica, CA 90405 310.396.9145 www.mstreetkitchen.com
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PHOTO BY: Ryan Hensley
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EAT PROFILE School of Fish
When Life Threw Chef Andy Matsuda A Curveball, He Didn’t Let It Stop Him
AUGUST 2017
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DUKE’S MAI TAI Get a Taste of the Tropics
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MEALS DECONSTRUCTED Pizza So ‘Grate,’ We Can’t Argue
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EAT PROFILE A Sushi Chef’s Approach to Life’s Challenges
CHEF ANDY MATSUDA @sushichefinstitute SUSHI CHEF INSTITUTE 1123 Van Ness Ave Torrance, CA 90501 310.782.8483 www.sushischool.net
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EAT/DRINK
THE FATHER OF SURFING
Don’t Touch
Mai Drink Escape to Hawaii With Duke’s Mai Tai WRITTEN BY: IAN HAYS PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NATHAN WHELAN Southern California is known for its pristine beaches and beautiful weather. But there is something about Hawaii that calls out to mainlanders. The water just seems a little bluer; the warmth in the air is just a little friendlier. Hawaii is synonymous with vacation. Unfortunately, we can’t just take a vacation whenever we want to the island paradise. But, Duke’s is the next best thing to a Hawaiian vacation. Each Duke’s location is perfectly placed a stone’s throw from the water. As you dine, take in the salty breeze and observe the surfers and frequent suntanners. Bask in décor designed with an upscale and chic beach bungalow in mind. But what completes the Hawaiian vacation experience is their famous Mai Tai. The cocktail is served in a festive
glass fashioned in a Polynesian tribal mask style. It also comes complete with a mini toothpick umbrella and pineapple slice.
Ò Duke’s is named after Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, world famous surfer and swimmer. He won multiple Olympic medals in swimming, setting records along the way. He is also credited with bringing surfing to the masses and popularizing it everywhere ocean meets sand.
HAWAIIAN HIATUS
Ò Each location has a weekly special, like half off wines or live music!
SPIRIT OF ALOHA
Ò Duke’s and the T S Restaurants family run “Legacy of Aloha,” their charitable organization. It is “grounded in the spirit of giving without an expectation of receiving anything in return” with a focus on community outreach. They work to curb hunger, assist the elderly, save the environment and positively promote Hawaiian culture within each restaurant’s local community.
But looks will only get you so far. It is the taste that really transports you to your favorite island resort. Duke’s Mai Tai is a trade secret. But, it does boast fresh Hawaiian juices and two kinds of rum. This expert blending not only quenches your thirst but slowly relaxes your muscles until your dining room chair is as comfortable as lounging on a white, sandy beach. Duke’s Mai Tai is also carefully crafted to pair well with their menu items. A Duke’s Mai Tai accompanied by their Crab Cakes and preserved lemon remoulade? It’s a meal fit for anyone dreaming of that tropical paradise on a Tuesday afternoon.
But what completes the Hawaiian vacation experience is their famous Mai Tai.
DUKE'S MALIBU 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, CA 90265 310.317.0777 www.dukesmalibu.com Photoshoot Location: DUKE’S HUNTINGTON BEACH 317 Pacific Coast Hwy Huntington Beach, CA 92648 714.374.6446 www.dukeshuntington.com
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Photoshoot Location: PIZZANISTA 1837 E 7th St Long Beach, CA 90813 562.591.6929 www.pizzanista.com
M EALS DECONSTRUCTED
SWEET DREAMS ARE MADE OF
CHEESE THIS MACARONI & CHEESE PIZZA IS MAKING US MELT
FLIP THE PAGE to see The Macaroni & Cheese Pizza Deconstructed WRITTEN BY: TAMARA AUSTRING PHOTOGRAPHED BY: VICTORIA FILICE
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SWEET BRUNCH OF MINE u For a sweeter version of the classic pizza slice, try the Berries, Ricotta & Orange Honey slice that’s on the brunch menu. SLICE IT UP u Wednesday through Saturday, Pizzanista does an off-menu pizza. A lot of times it’s something that one of the staff members comes up with.
Q&A With Founder and Co-Owner, Salman Agah
“I would definitely pair [the Macaroni & Cheese Pizza] with House Beer; it’s a 16-ounce can that’s made in Venice Beach.” —Salman Agah
When you think pizza, you may envision the classic, even “old school” pepperoni pizza. Pizza these days has become a whole lot cooler than a couple pepperonis atop some cheese and dough. Imagine combining two of your uber cheesy childhood favorites into one. You may ask, “Is this real life?” We’re here to bring you back down to earth—this indeed is real. It’s Macaroni & Cheese Pizza, the slice that is strutting its stuff at Pizzanista.
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This Long Beach and Downtown Los Angeles pizza spot is easily one of the edgiest in the LA foodie scene right now. While the Long Beach location has more residential and family vibes and the DTLA location gives off an industrial and urban feel, both are owned and founded by professional skateboarder, Salman Agah. And because of Agah’s skateboarding background, this business is not run like an ordinary restaurant. He treats this like he would a skate brand. See for yourself at either location, this pizza brand is all about creating a 64 LOCALE MAGAZINE
fun environment where creativity is encouraged. Just don’t forget to have a few local beers while you’re at it. While it’s always a party at Pizzanista, the partners mean business when it comes to sourcing local and high-quality items to make these Insta-worthy pizza creations. They’re always on the hunt for the best. And for the decadent Macaroni & Cheese Pizza, there’s even a vegan version complete with Follow Your Heart vegan cheese, a Canoga Park-founded company. Creativity is fostered in all facets at Pizzanista. Agah welcomes all types of creatives to contribute ideas at his pizza shops. For instance, Pizzanista regularly hosts open chef nights, and guests typically have no background in food. “When we do the collab, we offer them to be a guest chef,” Agah says. A recent guest was Elissa Steamer, who is known as one of the first female professional skateboarders. “She actually worked in pizza in NorCal. It’s rare that the person actually works on the pizza [for the event], but we consider it a guest chef because it’s their creation.” Whether you love cheese or vegan cheese, Pizzanista’s Macaroni & Cheese Pizza is a slice you’ll need to move to the top of your “must try” list to satisfy any cheesy craving you may have.
Q: How did you go from professional skateboarder to pizza shop owner? Salman Agah: I still skateboard, but the transition wasn't seamless. It wasn’t like I stopped one and started the other. I’ve always had other businesses. I considered having my own skate brand, but I also didn’t see myself having a traditional skate brand. I run and operate it like it would be a skate shop and work with skaters and photographers—it’s a nontraditional way to talk about pizza. I made the decision to go into pizza because it’s fun and the options are endless—similar to skateboarding. Q: What makes Pizzanista unique compared to other pizza places? SA: We think about our business differently than a lot of people—to our guests, employees, vendors, partners, etc. We think about all of those stakeholders always. We put a huge emphasis on hospitality. We want to make people feel good—not just because of the food, but the experience as well. And we’re always looking to purify our supply chain—always looking for more sustainable and local providers, which makes the pizza so much better. Q: Did you come up with idea for the Macaroni & Cheese Pizza. If so, how? SA: It was a collective effort between Price [Latimer], one of my partners, and I. I had it in my head, but she came up with the recipe. And a lot of times, that’s how we operate. I’ll have an idea, and I’ll look to her [to execute] it. She designed that pizza. Q: What’s your favorite beer to pair with the Macaroni & Cheese Pizza? SA: I would definitely pair it with House Beer; it’s a 16-ounce can that’s made in Venice Beach. Q: When not eating Pizzanista’s awesome creations, what are you craving? SA: I really like Josef Centeno’s Bar Amá—it’s a Tex-Mex restaurant. That’s one that I really love. I also like Shojin in Little Tokyo, it’s vegan Japanese; and Bestia in the arts district, it’s a very conscientious restaurant.
4 Slice, Slice, Baby Get a Load of the Other Slices on Deck
MEAT JESUS u Tomato Sauce u Mozzarella u Grana Padano u Pepperoni u Sausage u Bacon
POTATO, EGG SPINACH AND FONTINA u Potato u Eggs u Spinach u Fontina u Grana Padano
1 5
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2
WHITE u Mozzarella u Ricotta u Grana Padano u Olive Oil
MARGHERITA
u Tomato Sauce u Fresh Mozzarella u Grana Padano u Fresh Basil
CHEESE
u Tomato Sauce u Mozzarella u Grana Padano
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DAILY SPECIAL
u The Abbott's Butcher Plant
Based Vegan Chorizo
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u Daiya Mozzarella Shreds u Jalapeño u Bell Peppers u Red Onions
VEGAN BREAKFAST SCRAMBLE u Tomato Sauce u Daiya Vegan Cheese u Vegan Sausage u Tofu Scramble u Caramelized Onions u Mushrooms u Basil
Creativity is fostered in all facets at Pizzanista. Agah welcomes all types of creatives to contribute ideas at his pizza shops.
Macaroni & Cheese Pizza Ingredients: 1. Barilla elbow macaroni 2. Kosher Salt 3. Fresh Crushed Christopher Ranch Heirloom Garlic LIKE FACTOR u Check out the Instagram account @h0tgirlseatingpizza, which celebrates the glory of all things ladies and their love of ‘Za. Pizzanista has their own Instagram as well, @pizzanista, that highlights what’s new and showcases the rest of their snap-worthy slices.
4. Black Pepper 5. Olive Oil 6. Oregano 7. Manufacturing Cream 8. Cheddar Cheese 9. Fontina Cheese 10. Asiago Cheese 11. Mozzarella Cheese 12. Homemade Sourdough Crust
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SCHOOL of
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WHEN LIFE THREW CHEF ANDY MATSUDA A CURVEBALL, HE DIDN’T LET IT STOP HIM WRITTEN BY: CHARLOTTE FARRELL PHOTOGRAPHED BY: RYAN HENSLEY
A teacher, at their core, is someone who finds joy in spreading knowledge and motivating their subjects. The goal is to guide the student on the path to realizing their dreams. Chef Andy Matsuda is an incredible teacher with a history and background that assures those who are taken under his wing are being taught by a true master. But that is just the tip of the iceberg, as Matsuda’s credibility goes far beyond his impressive resumé.
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CHEF ANDY MATSUDA @sushichefinstitute SUSHI CHEF INSTITUTE 1123 Van Ness Ave Torrance, CA 90501 www.sushischool.net
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“My job used to be making sushi. Now I make students.” —Chef Andy Matsuda
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“Each individual has different feelings, different cultures, different situations. Teaching is not only about being a chef. You must understand the person's needs, then you can teach them.” —Chef Andy Matsuda
Just outside of Kobe, Japan, Andy Matsuda began his culinary career at the tender age of nine.
From his family's small restaurant, he went on to learn the ins and outs of the business, being exposed to the harsh realities of long hours, buckets of sweat and tired hands. “I started serving [my dishes] to my parents and friends,” he said. “I loved seeing the smiles on people’s faces.” By age 23, he had apprenticed at Genpachi, one of the most famous restaurants in Osaka, and also became a member of the prestigious sushi chef organization called 'Yoseikai.' After a quick stint back home to help grow his family’s business, Matsuda took a leap. A 5,721 mile leap across the globe to pursue a career in Los Angeles. 68 LOCALE MAGAZINE
STAR POWER u Matsuda has done private lessons for Guy Fieri, Kyle Connaughton of SingleThread Farms and Eddie Huang of “VICELAND.” THE REAL DEAL u Matsuda has been featured in “EATER,” “Insider Food,” KTLA news and more! HOME COMF ORTS u Chef Matsuda’s favorite place to enjoy a meal is at home.
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As of 2017, the school boasts 1,500 graduates who moved on to work for and open restaurants in over 100 countries.
LO CAL VACAY u His favorite spot to spend time with the fam is at the Terranea Resort in Ranchos Palos Verdes. He loves the ocean views, gorgeous weather and the quiet atmosphere. Plus, he has some friends in the kitchen! M U ST HAV E u The food Matsuda can’t live without? Sardines! He loves the high Omega factor, the fresh flavor, low cost and versatility.
The competition in LA is fierce in just about every line of work, but Matsuda wasn’t fazed. He arrived in 1981 and hit the ground running. From restaurants to hotels, he worked his way up the ladder and gained notoriety wherever he went. But success came at a great cost. “I crashed myself,” he said. The devastating news of a cancer diagnosis knocked Matsuda from his well-earned pedestal. “I couldn’t go anywhere. I had to pay the bills. I couldn’t do anything. I was so scared to spend money because I had no income. I [had] to take care of the family, I [had] to take care of the bills.” While doing chemotherapy, Matsuda took up part-time jobs until the necessity of another surgery, once again, took him by surprise. For a total of four years, he fought the disease valiantly. This kind, hard-working man was dealt a card each and every human being fears the most when it comes to their health. The treatments wore him down, leaving him unable to work the grueling yet rewarding hours he had before.
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As the bills got worse and the pressure increased, Matsuda saw a pattern— more like a need. Sushi was starting to become the new trendy food in town. “More American people wanted sushi, sushi, sushi! [There wasn’t] enough Japanese people. We can't import people from Japan, so [I] needed to teach within. I had no job, no money… [opening the school] was the only thing I could do,” he said. Little by little, he started teaching in 2002. In a 600-square-foot room in a community center in Little Tokyo, he gave his time and energy to his students. “Sometimes [we had] no
class and no people. It wasn’t easy, but step by step I tried to promote myself and build my school.” He would commute two hours roundtrip and faced refrigerator breakdowns, but it didn’t matter. He was back in his happy place. Fast forward to 2011, and the school was moved to a 4,000 square foot space in Torrance. As of 2017, the school boasts 1,500 graduates who moved on to work for and open restaurants in over 100 countries. Some of his star pupils include David Bouhadana in New York and Engin Onural in Palm Desert (crowned as one of the top 100 sushi chefs in the USA in 2016), just to name a few. “My job used to be making sushi. Now I make students.” When it comes to his teaching style, he emphasizes that “each individual has different feelings, different cultures, different situations. Teaching is not only about being a chef. You must understand the person's needs, then you can teach them. It takes time. I have to teach them as an individual.” For chefs on the horizon of a culinary career, he advises them to “keep the dream strong. It’s a lot of work. Challenge yourself and never, never, never give up until your dream comes true.” He thrives doing what he loves, and wants people who are afraid of sushi to “discover themselves” by starting out small. “A California roll or cucumber roll, with a little soy sauce,” he suggests. “We are not using heavy cream, butter, eggs and those kind of things. We use more healthy vegetables, rice, seaweed— it’s good for you!” When asked what he would be if he wasn’t a sushi chef and teacher, Matsuda paused, then laughed. “I don't know, maybe I'd be a fish!” Just keep swimming, Chef! LOCALE MAGAZINE 69
PHOTO BY: Wil Cohen
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BEAUTY EXPERT The Boss Babes of Beauty Beach Lounge
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BELOFORTE Get a Leg Up On This Trend
The “Vanderpump Rules” Starlet and “Straight Up with Stassi” Podcast Host Gets Real
COVER STORY Stassi Schroeder Gives Her Two Cents
COVER STORY For Real Though
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FASHION SPREAD Turn Up the Heat With These Hot Summer Looks
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THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID Take in the Good Vibes in Malibu
STASSI SCHROEDER www.juststassi.com @stassischroeder Photoshoot Location: VENICE BOARDWALK 1800 Ocean Front Walk Venice, CA 90291 310.396.6764 www.venicebeach.com/the-venice-beach-boardwalk
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BEAUTY BEACH LOUNGE 12751 W Millennium Dr, Ste 125 Los Angeles, CA 90094 310.862.5555 www.beautybeachlounge.com
“We wanted a salon that anyone could come to and feel comfortable in, so we just followed our hearts and that vision and we worked on it until it just felt right.”—Shay Merchav
“And because Shay is my best friend, literally like a sister to me, we have so much history together and I didn’t want to let her down. I wanted both of us to succeed in this.” —Jennifer Negrette-Nairn
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BEAUTY EXPERT
boss L A DIE S When it Comes to Working Together, JENNIFER NEGRETTE-NAIRN AND SHAY MERCHAV of Beauty Beach Lounge Are Pros WRITTEN BY: PRISCILLA THOMAS-NAKANE PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DIANE LOMBARDI MAKEUP BY: NATALIE MALCHEV & DAVEE TROUBLEFIELD
Experts: Jennifer Negrette-Nairn and Shay Merchav Credentials: Co-Owners and Stylists at Beauty Beach Lounge Favorite Hair Care Product: Jennifer loves 7SECONDS, a leave-in detangler by UNITE, and Shay is a fan of This Is A Dry Texturizer by Davines.
Jennifer Negrette-Nairn and Shay Merchav are the boss babe BFF’s of Beauty Beach Lounge—a hip and on trend hair salon for men and women in the heart of the up and coming Runway of Playa Vista. LOCALE sits down with this dynamic duo to learn the story of how they met, why they love working together and how much of their heart’s passion is poured into running a hair salon that is centered around the client, community and giving back.
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Q: Tell us what sets Beauty Beach Lounge apart from other hair salons? Shay Merchav: I think there’s a lot that sets us apart. There are so many salons throughout LA and each one will have its own set of characteristics; but for us, we are about giving back, and we are about the community. We’ve partnered up with a wonderful cancer research charity called Young and Brave Foundation and we hold an annual cut-a-thon for them where 100 percent of the proceeds from the haircuts and services we perform on that day go to them. Q: What was your inspiration for the concept of Beauty Beach Lounge? Jennifer Negrette-Nairn: We treat our stylists like family too and that definitely trickles down. As owners, we never wanted our stylists to feel a hierarchy between us and them. Shay and I both work behind the chair at least four to five days a week, in addition to our ownership duties, and our prices are pretty much the same as everyone else’s. So again, as corny as it may sound, our true inspiration and concept came from our hearts. SM: Our inspiration just really came from the heart. We wanted a salon that anyone could come to and feel comfortable in, so we just followed our hearts and that vision and we worked on it until it just felt right. Q: As two strong female business owners, what were some of the challenges in opening a joint partnership business? SM: We’ve been friends for over 15 years and have never fought, not once. JNN: For me, it was honestly so easy to work together on this goal. We both wanted it. And because Shay is my best friend, literally like a sister to me, we have so much history together and I didn’t want to let her down. I wanted both of us to succeed in this. For us, the key was balancing each other out. I used my business strengths and she used hers. There were days when I was stressed and then there were days where she was stressed and each of us could lean on the other to get things done. Q: What do each of you love most about running your own salon? JNN: The freedom! No seriously, I think it’s being able to create a salon by taking the bits and pieces of what works from all the other salons we have worked at, and making it our own, without any of the things or the drama that didn’t work. We have the freedom to create this place to be all that we’ve truly ever dreamed of. SM: The beautiful part of all this to me,
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is to see my best friend flourish and do so well as a business owner and to see us both living out our dream is just really amazing. And we also get to create a space that is so uniquely us. We like things to look a certain way, we are both very clean and wanted that to be a priority in our salon and now we can enforce it! Jenn and I are both very fun and we have created a very fun salon— our stylists have fun, our clients have fun and we love that. Q: Describe what a first-time client can expect to experience at Beauty Beach Lounge. SM: I like to offer the beer and wine first. Our male clients love that they can have a beer here. JNN: They then get introduced to their stylist who starts working on them; from that point on, it’s a very personable experience between them and their stylist. SM: What Jenn and I really focus on at Beauty Beach Lounge is that it’s a salon for the clients. The clients are the center of everything. We love our clients and they are the priority. We are 100 percent satisfaction guaranteed for the client. We offer full money back on product, tools and services if the client isn’t 100 percent satisfied. We also offer our amazing discount on haircuts for firsttime clients. Q: What are your future plans for Beauty Beach Lounge? SM: It’s definitely growth for us. Right now we are soaking it all in when it comes to the success of the salon, but ultimately it’s looking towards growing the brand. We’ve been so fortunate in this past first year and a half or so of business and in the future, whether it’s a product line, or another location, we are definitely looking for growth of the business. JNN: With that being said, we are committed to not losing sight of who we are and what we stand for in wanting to keep the salon authentic to our vision.
HOT SPOTS Shay’s go-to spot for her favorite shishito peppers and unfiltered sake is Irori Japanese Restaurant in Marina Del Rey. Jennifer’s favorite LA eateries are Paco’s Tacos and Sakura Sushi House. STRUT YOUR STYLE Jennifer is a little bit beachy and a little bit rock n’ roll. Shay is either athletic and
fresh faced with a ponytail and great workout clothes or full blown “babe” status with glam hair and makeup. INSIDE JOKES Jennifer and Shay never call each other by their real names. They call each other “Shark” or “Sharky,” interchangeably, and it’s been that way since they were new friends in their early 20s.
STYLE/BEAUTY
BELOFORTE makes athletic wear that functions just as well as it photographs. The Athleisure brand focuses on creating clothes that not only work well in the gym, but make you feel beautiful and sexy while you do it, even if you’re covered in sweat. Whitney Quaresma and Kevin Dorey founded the brand together when they realized the market needed something more.
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That’s a Stretch Break a Sweat in Style With BELOFORTE Leggings WRITTEN BY: ASHLEE POLAREK PHOTOGRAPHED BY: MAXX BUCHANAN MODEL: ERIN PRICE
Quaresma is no stranger to how athletic wear should fit and feel while working hard, but she wanted something more than basic running shorts and tanks tops. Pulling inspiration from high fashion, she teamed up with businessman Dorey to create the BELOFORTE brand so many have come to love. The duo designs the clothes together striving to source materials that are sustainable and easy on the environment, all while staying in tune and ahead of trends. Some of their designs include the Penelope Lace-up Legging, a nylon and spandex blend that features a mesh peekaboo on the thighs, which circles around to reveal lacedup mesh that elongates the legs—it’s something that looks good on the gym and the dance floor.
Patterns and cuts are designed specifically to help make wearers look and feel their best because not everyone is trying to set personal records in 100-meter races, and some people just want to look cute as they hit the stationary bike. The fabric selected usually has a pattern or texture, setting it apart from the smooth, form-fitted fabric people are used to. Many of the garments are designed to shape the body or create the illusion of shape, like giving a lift in the booty or a fuller bust. BELOFORTE has a sexy approach to Athleisure, and Dorey says, “We love a confident woman that isn’t afraid to wear things the way that she wants to wear them or how she wants to wear them.” Although the brand strives to put out garments that are sexy, fashionable and beautiful, they understand that the items need to hold up in workouts. The 2017 fall line introduces a new fabric that is completely opaque but doesn't wear hot, and doesn’t impede movement all while giving support. The brand makes it easy to wear gorgeous pieces that can easily translate to a post workout dinner with friends where you still look stylish.
Not everyone is trying to set personal records in 100-meter races, and some people just want to look cute as they hit the stationary bike.
CHABLIS LEGGING $150
JURA LEGGING $98
PENELOPE LACE-UP LEGGING $143
BELOFORTE 1519 6th St, Ste 508 Santa Monica, CA 90401 310.904.6161 www.belo-forte.com
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STASSI SCHROEDER www.juststassi.com @stassischroeder Photoshoot Location: VENICE BOARDWALK 1800 Ocean Front Walk Venice, CA 90291 310.396.6764 www.venicebeach.com/the-venice-beach-boardwalk
TOP PROVIDED BY: Daniel Patrick www.danielpatrick.us BODYSUIT PROVIDED BY: Grana www.grana.com NECKLACE PROVIDED BY: Smith+Mara www.smithandmara.com FANNYPACK PROVIDED BY: JammyPack www.jammypack.com
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ForThough Real
THE “ VANDERPUMP RULES” STARLET AND “STRAIGHT UP WITH STASSI” PODCAST HOST GETS REAL
W R I T T E N BY: N A N DA DY S S O U
P H OTOG R A P HE D BY: W I L CO HE N / / / STY L E D BY: C LAU D I A A LVA R A D O M A K E U P BY: B R I A N B O N D / / / HAI R BY: JU LI A S AV I TS KAYA
As a reality starlet on Bravo’s “Vanderpump Rules” and host of the podcast “Straight Up with Stassi,” STASSI SCHROEDER is known for her quick wit, sharp tongue and funny one-liners. At only 29 years old, she has also worn the titles of model, fashion blogger and jewelry designer. What few people know is that Stassi prides herself on being loyal to a fault, be it to her hometown of New Orleans or to her group of friends, all living within a mile radius of her current home in West Hollywood. She is a Southerner to the core, and always keeps her fridge and bar cart stocked in case anyone should stop by unexpectedly. Stassi and I met at The Restaurant in The Chateau Marmont, where over the course of two hours, a few glasses of Sancerre and a turbo-charged chopped salad, we talked about her career, personal life and plans for the future.
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As a teenager, Stassi thought she would end up in New York City as a musical theater performer. After all, she was president of the drama club and voted most talented in her high school. She even learned to juggle during after school Circus Training classes. However, her life took a different turn in 2005, when she appeared with her family on ABC’s reality competition “The Amazing Race.” In 2008, she was cast on “Queen Bees,” a short-lived TeenNick reality series about young girls, but the show which Stassi found her true self was Bravo’s “Vanderpump Rules.”
After six years on TV, she is so used to being surrounded by cameras that she doesn’t even notice them. Still, Stassi sticks to her preshow rituals, “I have to have a spray tan and a cocktail before filming.” When asked about behind the scenes secrets, she says, “The craziest stuff always happens once the cameras leave. When we hear, ‘Okay, let’s wrap,’ and we start drinking more…that’s when major fights go down.” While Stassi loves getting paid to be herself, the show’s shooting schedule is tight. During filming, she has little time for herself, which is why between seasons she likes to visit her loved ones,
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have her friends over, curl up on the couch with her dogs, drink a glass of wine and watch one of her favorite shows. Her big picks are “Black Mirror,” “The OA,” “Stranger Things,” and “Game of Thrones.” Being in the public eye has also been a hindrance to Stassi’s love life. Two of her breakups—with co-star Jax Taylor and radio host Patrick Meagher—were televised for all to see. This didn’t make her guarded, but made her aware of her lack of privacy. “It is the hardest thing to have a relationship because your fans and producers want to see it, and it’s very hard to ask somebody to put themselves on TV and be willing to be edited to look like an a-hole, possibly. It’s a lot.”
“ONLINE SHOPPING IS MY
XANAX. IT CALMS ME DOWN.” —STASSI SCHROEDER
Hometown: New Orleans, LA. Favorite Selfie Spot: Second floor of the Revolve showroom Favorite Drink Destination: Bar Marmont at Chateau Marmont
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SWIMSUIT PROVIDED BY: Cover Swim www.coverswim.com BOTTOMS PROVIDED BY: Lysse www.lysse.com EARRINGS AND BELT PROVIDED BY: Adore Fashion www.adorefashion.net NECKLACE PROVIDED BY: Smith+Mara www.smithandmara.com
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Idol: Joan Rivers Celebrity Crush: Emma Stone Biggest Splurge: Roger Vivier sneakers for a cool $1,500
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TOP PROVIDED BY: Daniel Patrick www.danielpatrick.us BODYSUIT PROVIDED BY: Grana www.grana.com NECKLACE PROVIDED BY: Smith+Mara www.smithandmara.com FANNYPACK PROVIDED BY: JammyPack www.jammypack.com
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There is also the problem of her work attracting the wrong kind of attention. “The men I’m attracted to are men who don’t want to do reality TV. But the men who want to date me…I don’t trust them. I’m like are you just using me? Do you even like me? I need to find somebody who really doesn’t want to do reality TV but loves me so much that he will do it for me.” For now, she is mostly enjoying the single life. “After my breakup, I vowed to stay single for a year. I got burned out on bad dates. Plus, being single gives me a chance to do things that I don’t normally do when I’m in a relationship, like going on my friends’ Katie and Tom’s honeymoon, or taking a girls’ trip to Copenhagen and Paris in April.”
the ugly sides of your personality. But I’m not mean. Maybe in season one I was a little mean, but I was young, 22, and going through a breakup. All my friends were siding with my boyfriend, so it was hard. “I get paid for being myself. That’s the best and the worst part of my job. Being on ‘Pump Rules’ is not like being an actress in a movie where, if you don’t like her character, it’s not personal. When somebody sees me, they either like me or hate me, and it is personal. Sometimes it gets hurtful,” she says with a somber expression. “Being on the show has taught me not to be judgmental. ‘Judgy,’ yes, but not judgmental.” Stassi has always loved talk radio and had listened to, now ex-boyfriend, Patrick Meagher’s show for three years before
“I MAKE SURE NOT TO EDIT ANYTHING OUT. I’M NOT HIDING ANYTHING, AND I’M NOT SCARED TO TALK ABOUT THINGS THAT MAY BE A LITTLE TOUCHY.” —STASSI SCHROEDER
Stassi has no regrets about her life choices. “The only thing I wish I had known before getting on reality TV is how to do my makeup better.” She decided long ago to be an open book, “All the good things in my life have happened because I don’t hold back. And if somebody doesn’t like that, that’s their problem.” Her trademark honesty comes at a price; Stassi is often billed as the show’s villain or “mean girl.” She insists that her true self is to the contrary and those close to her know it. “I never have the intention to hurt anyone, but TV is entertainment, so you have to fight with people, disclose things about your life that you don’t want to, and you have to let others see
using “Vanderpump Rules” as a springboard for “Straight Up with Stassi,” her weekly podcast. “It is the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done, the thing I’m most proud of. It’s an opportunity I wouldn’t have been given without the show. I’ve had so many listeners email me about how depressed, or suicidal, or lost they felt about losing a loved one or being in the hospital, and my podcast helped them get through those things. And that has given me such a sense of purpose that I didn’t have before.” On her podcast, she’s talked about music, dating, fashion and partying with guests like Nigel Barker, Kristin Chenoweth, Emma Roberts and Rachel Zoe. Her next dream guests for the podcast would be
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Kate Hudson and Jennifer Lawrence, both women she appreciates for being “no-bullshit, cool, down-ass chicks.” Stassi brings her candid style to the world of podcasting too. “I make sure not to edit anything out. I’m not hiding anything, and I’m not scared to talk about things that may be a little touchy. I wouldn’t mind being the female Howard Stern…I’m getting there,” she says with a smile that speaks volumes about her passion for this career path. Eventually, she would like to make her show a five-days-a-week, live affair. Stassi has never been afraid to aim high, and so far it has paid off. Last year, a childhood aspiration of hers came true when she was a Grand Marshall for the Mardi Gras Parade in New Orleans. “It was the craziest experience I’ve ever had. Nothing will ever be as fun as that, not even my own wedding.” Stassi also fell in love with fashion many years ago and has tried on every aspect of it for size. She modeled for GQ, Vanity Fair, US Weekly and more. Then, she designed a jewelry collection for Shop Prima Donna, which was all inspired by her childhood jewelry making experiences and gemstone buying trips to Europe with her mom. She even tried her hand at fashion writing and blogging via her “Style Diaries.” “I thought I was going to be the next Rachel Zoe,” she says of those days. After a year and a half, she decided that blogging was not compatible with her personality. “I’m not a blogger type. I’m a little rough around the edges. I don’t want to create a fake life on Instagram with a rose gold filter on every photo, pretending that my life is perfect at every moment. I don’t like the façade. I want my captions to be real. My current website Juststassi. com combines my podcast, fashion and other aspects of my personality, and it’s more real and relatable.”
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Her personal sense of style is inspired by the Old Hollywood glamour of the ‘40s and the Swinging ‘60s in London. “I love texture, the way certain fabrics feel. I also enjoy surprises, like necklaces that fall behind the back, when the best part of the outfit is the back.” Stassi has a fondness for Chloé handbags, Manolo sandals, and Chanel accessories, but she also loves a good bargain. Once, on a trip in Canada, she had to buy a new suitcase to bring back all her bargain finds. Monochromatic looks are a favorite of Stassi’s, and she swears by finding one’s uniform; a look that makes you feel confident. “In the fall, I like sweater dresses, thigh-high boots, and statement coats. In the summer, I love off-theshoulder rompers, tops, and embellished sandals.” She dresses up even at home, for herself. “All my pajamas are matching silk sets; my slippers look like Cinderella shoes. I feel best about myself when I look good. And I get more excited about putting together an outfit than I get about going to an actual event. In fact, my ideal day is going to brunch, then sitting down at home, looking at fashion blogs. Online shopping is my Xanax. It calms me down,” she says as she laughs selfconsciously. Her shopping habits have evolved further under the guidance of stylist Audrey Brianne, who taught her never to judge anything based on what it looks like on a hanger but to try on everything. One day she would like to try her hand at designing shoes and handbags. “If I had a line of shoes I would die. But I would only do it if I had full creative control. That would be a dream come true.” And if the past is any indicator, Stassi’s shoe line is not far off in the future. Fingers crossed!
“I GET PAID FOR BEING
MYSELF. THAT’S THE BEST AND THE WORST PART OF MY JOB.” —STASSI SCHROEDER
85 Triple Threat She boasts a bachelor’s degree in English, she can juggle, and has a weekly podcast called “Straight Up with Stassi.” Sleeping Beauty Her go-tos for a good snooze are matching silk Pj's and Cinderella slippers.
WHITE TOP PROVIDED BY: Daniel Patrick www.danielpatrick.us BLACK PANTS PROVIDED BY: Rudsak www.rudsak.com EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Adore Fashion www.adorefashion.net BLACK TOP PROVIDED BY: Daniel Patrick www.danielpatrick.us NUDE BODYSUIT PROVIDED BY: Grana www.grana.com NECKLACE PROVIDED BY: Smith+Mara www.smithandmara.com FANNYPACK PROVIDED BY: JammyPack www.jammypack.com
Photoshoot Location: GENERAL ADMISSION 52 Brooks Ave Venice, CA 90291 310.399.1051 www.generaladmission.us
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“I NEED TO FIND
SOMEBODY WHO REALLY DOESN’T WANT TO DO
REALITY TV BUT LOVES ME SO MUCH THAT HE WILL DO IT FOR ME.” —STASSI SCHROEDER
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SWIMSUIT PROVIDED BY: Cover Swim www.coverswim.com BOTTOMS PROVIDED BY: Lysse www.lysse.com EARRINGS AND BELT PROVIDED BY: Adore Fashion www.adorefashion.net NECKLACE PROVIDED BY: Smith+Mara www.smithandmara.com BIKE PROVIDED BY: Solé Bicycles www.solebicycles.com
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Photoshoot Location: HOME OF PATRICK ONEILL Hollywood Hills
H E AT T H I N G S U P W I T H T H E S E S T Y L I S H LO O K S PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JON WONG STYLED BY: NEIL COHEN HAIR & MAKEUP BY: ALICIA WHEELER MODELS: RYAN YOUNG OF LA MODELS, www.lamodels.com & SOFIA VESPE OF BRAND MODEL & TALENT AGENCY, www.brandtalent.net
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JACKET PROVIDED BY: Theory Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.theory.com SHIRT PROVIDED BY: DSQUARED2 Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.dsquared2.com PANTS PROVIDED BY: Paul Smith www.paulsmith.com SUNGLASSES PROVIDED BY: Tom Ford www.tomford.com BAG PROVIDED BY: Ghurka www.ghurka.com CLASSIC 1962 PORSCHE PROVIDED BY: Patrick ONeill
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MEN’S SWEATER PROVIDED BY: Michael Kors Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.michaelkors.com
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MEN’S JACKET PROVIDED BY: DSQUARED2 Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.dsquared2.com MEN’S SHOES PROVIDED BY: Sandro Beverly Hills www.us.sandro-paris.com WOMEN’S DRESS PROVIDED BY: REDValentino Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.redvalentino.com WOMEN’S SHOES PROVIDED BY: Schutz www.schutz-shoes.com
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MEN’S JACKET PROVIDED BY: Theory Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.theory.com MEN’S SHIRT PROVIDED BY: DSQUARED2 Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.dsquared2.com MEN’S PANTS PROVIDED BY: Paul Smith www.paulsmith.com MEN’S SUNGLASSES PROVIDED BY: Tom Ford www.tomford.com
WOMEN’S HANDBAG PROVIDED BY: Ghurka www.ghurka.com WOMEN’S TANK PROVIDED BY: Diane Von Furstenburg www.dvf.com WOMEN’S SHORTS PROVIDED BY: DANWARD Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.danwardwear.com CLASSIC 1962 PORSCHE PROVIDED BY: Patrick ONeill
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MEN’S SHIRT PROVIDED BY: DSQUARED2 Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.dsquared2.com MEN’S PANTS PROVIDED BY: Paul Smith Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.paulsmith.com MEN’S SHOES PROVIDED BY: Sanders Available at Mr. Turk Palm Springs www.sanders-uk.com WOMEN’S APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Diane Von Furstenberg Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.dvf.com WOMEN’S SHOES PROVIDED BY: Loeffler Randall Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.loefflerrandall.com
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MEN’S SUIT PROVIDED BY: Strong Suit Nordstrom www.strongsuitclothing.com MEN’S SHIRT PROVIDED BY: DANWARD www.danwardwear.com MEN’S SUNGLASSES PROVIDED BY: Tom Ford Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.tomford.com
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MEN’S APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Paul Smith Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.paulsmith.com MEN’S SHOES PROVIDED BY: Aquatalia www.aquatalia.com
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MEN’S POLO SWEATER PROVIDED BY: Michael Kors Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.michaelkors.com MEN’S SHORTS PROVIDED BY: DANWARD www.danwardwear.com
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MEN’S SHIRT PROVIDED BY: DSQUARED2 Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.dsquared2.com MEN’S PANTS PROVIDED BY: Paul Smith Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.paulsmith.com MEN’S SHOES PROVIDED BY: Sanders Available at Mr. Turk Palm Springs www.sanders-uk.com
WOMEN’S APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Diane Von Furstenberg Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.dvf.com WOMEN’S SHOES PROVIDED BY: Loeffler Randall Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.loefflerrandall.com
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MEN’S SHORTS PROVIDED BY: Michael Kors Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.michaelkors.com WOMEN’S BIKINI TOP PROVIDED BY: Vitamin A Canyon Beachwear www.vitaminaswim.com WOMEN’S PANTS PROVIDED BY: Vitamin A Canyon Beachwear www.vitaminaswim.com SUNGLASSES PROVIDED BY: Tom Ford Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.tomford.com
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MEN’S SHIRT PROVIDED BY: Moncler Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.store.moncler.com MEN’S SHORTS PROVIDED BY: DANWARD Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.danwardwear.com
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MEN’S SHIRT PROVIDED BY: Diesel Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.shop.diesel.com MEN’S SHORTS PROVIDED BY: DANWARD www.danwardwear.com MEN’S SHOES PROVIDED BY: Sanders Available at Mr. Turk Palm Springs www.sanders-uk.com MEN’S SUNGLASSES PROVIDED BY: Barton Perreira Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills www.bartonperreira.com
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AD
T H AT ' S W H AT S H E S A I D
Malibu-
TIFUL
Wellness Blogger JORDAN YOUNGER Takes Us to Her Favorite Spots in Gorgeous MALIBU
WRITTEN BY: JORDAN YOUNGER PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NATASHA LEE HAIR & MAKEUP BY: RUTH TORRES
JORDAN YOUNGER www.thebalancedblonde.com @thebalancedblonde
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Blogger Life Younger has been blogging for over four years and does not consider herself a 9-5 kind of girl. Stand Out “My favorite color has been lime green since first grade! I picked it because we went around the room and every other girl chose pink, so I wanted to be different. I have always been just a little kooky that way,” said Younger.
I have lived in LA for eight years, and the cool thing about this city is that I am always discovering something new that captures my heart. I blog fulltime at The Balanced Blonde, so getting outside is a big, important part of my day. I also teach yoga and am pretty obsessed with interviewing guests for my wellness podcast, ˮSoul on Fire.ˮ The place I have always felt the most at home at in Los Angeles is Malibu, probably because of the laid back beachy vibes—and the fact that I can wear yoga clothes, rock my mermaid top knots and fit right in. Plus, the wellness scene out here is so on point!
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CAFFE LUXXE
22333 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste 160 Malibu, CA 90265 310.394.2222 www.caffeluxxe.com
Ò Caffe Luxxe is my favorite coffee shop in all of Los Angeles. I am spoiled because I also have a couple of them near me in Brentwood, but their Malibu location is hands down my favorite. I mean, it’s right across from the beach! You can’t get much better than that. If you’re looking for something deliciously indulgent, their almond milk mocha is a must-have!
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Healer Younger not only blogs, but she teaches yoga and is soon to be certified in Reiki healing. She is “obsessed” with spiritual healing modalities from acupuncture to kundalini yoga to Ayurveda. #TBT “My blog used to be called The Blonde Vegan, but when I stopped being vegan I basically changed everything and am now The Balanced Blonde. All about that balanced life,” said Younger. A Few of Her Favorite Things Younger loves kombucha, green smoothies, dark chocolate and beach walks.
MALIBU WINE SAFARIS 32111 Mulholland Hwy Malibu, CA 90265 818.497.2206 www.lasafaris.com
O
OLLO MALIBU
23750 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, CA 90265 310.317.1444 www.ollomalibu.com
Ò Ollo is absolutely adorable. It’s nestled in one of the most iconic shopping centers in Malibu, and their food is not to be missed out on. They have the prettiest juices and their pizzas are like a work of art. The Balanced Blonde approved menu items? On the list are the Chilaquiles (heaven!), Curried Lentils, Burrata & Apricots and Fuji Apple & Quinoa Salad. Yum!
Ò This is such a quintessential Los Angeles attraction, and it’s something I think everyone who lives here should do at least once. The animals are adorable, you get to explore the Saddlerock Ranch and vineyard, and of course—wine tastings. If you go, say, ‘Hi’ to Stanley the giraffe for me, and take an Instagram photo with him. He’s very photogenic!
MALIBU RIDERS 2903 Cornell Rd Agoura Hills, CA 91301 818.510.2245 www.maliburiders.com
Ò Who doesn't want to get their horseback-trail-riding on? Especially in a location as pretty as Malibu. I am always one for getting outside and soaking in the good, grounded vibes that the earth and our beautiful animals that surround us have to offer. Malibu Riders will take you through some of the most beautiful trails in the national and state parks of Los Angeles for a truly unique and natural experience.
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GETTY VILLA
17985 Pacific Coast Hwy Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 310.440.7300 www.getty.edu/visit/villa
Ò I started going to the Getty Villa when I was a student at Loyola Marymount University because all of the art classes I took actually gave us credit for attending this gorgeous museum. You'll find all sorts of hidden gems, soak in the ancient Grecian and Roman culture and see some of the best views in all of Los Angeles.
STREET FOOD CINEMA
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MALIBU BEACH YOGA 29169 Heathercliff Rd, Ste 217 Malibu, CA 90265 www.malibubeachyoga.com
Ò I am so glad that I stumbled into this adorable, laid back, beachy studio! The artwork on the walls is gorgeous, and their team of teachers and studio managers are incredibly sweet, which is important to me because I am all about the vibes and ambiance when it comes to yoga studios. 102 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Run Jordan, Run Although she’s a yogi at heart, Younger loves to run. In fact, she ran the LA Marathon, and it was one of her proudest moments. Topping the Charts The Balanced Blonde Podcast // Soul on Fire has topped the wellness charts on iTunes! Some of her guests include Gabby Bernstein, Kathryn Budig, Morgan Haley and so many more. Her dream guests are Gwyneth Paltrow and Oprah!
King Gillette Ranch 26800 Mulholland Hwy Calabasas, CA 91302 818.878.0866 www.streetfoodcinema.com
Ò Outdoor movies, beautiful scenery, people you love? Sign me up! I am such a sucker for the movies they play here, and I know they have a ton of great ones coming up. It's one of my favorite things to do with my friends.
THE MALIBU CAFE 327 Latigo Canyon Rd Malibu, CA 90265 818.540.2400 www.themalibucafe.com
Ò The Malibu Cafe has tons of signature items there like their Calamigos Barbeque Sauce, and I love that they are rooted in the cowboy lifestyle. If you’ve ever listened to my podcast, you know that I come from a long line of cowboys in the Younger family, so I feel right at home there.
“I am all about the vibes and ambiance when it comes to yoga studios.”
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PHOTO BY: Joe Nardello
HOME
///AWAY AUGUST 2017
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HOME EXPERTS James White and Elliot March Will Create Your Dream Home
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HOTEL ANGELENO This Spot Offers a One-of-a-Kind Stay in LA
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ESCAPE: GREATER PALM SPRINGS Your Summer Oasis Awaits
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SETTING THE TABLE CATCH LA is Making Summer Even Hotter
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SETTING THE TABLE CATCH Me If You Can
Upgrade Your Brunch Game in WeHo’s Hottest Brunch Spot
CATCH LA 8715 Melrose Ave West Hollywood, CA 90069 323.347.6060 www.catchrestaurants.com
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MARCH & WHITE LA Studio 9152 Sunset Blvd West Hollywood, CA 90069 www.marchandwhite.com Photoshoot Location: HILLS PENTHOUSE 8560 Sunset Blvd West Hollywood CA, 90069 323.801.7410 www.hillspenthouse.com
ELLIOT MARCH
JAMES WHITE
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HOME EXPERT
BUILDING
BL O CKS S U P E R -YA C H T S , L U X U R Y H O M E S A N D C U S TO M D E S I G N S : M E E T THE MASTERMINDS BEHIND MARCH & WHITE
WRITTEN BY: GABRIELA MUNGARRO
PHOTOGRAPHED BY: RYAN WEST
E X P E R T S : Elliot March and James White C R E D E N T I A L S : Founders of March & White C L A S S A C T: This design duo met at the University of Oxford in 1996, and after working for major architecture firms postgrad, they reunited for March & White in 2010.
Space, value and texture are among some of the principal elements of design for artists, but creativity, talent and vision are ultimately what brings any project to life. There is something remarkable in the ability to create a piece of precious art from a simple idea, and that is exactly what luxury interior design duo March & White are all about—inventing art. Elliot March and James White joined dynamisms and elevated their London-based luxury label, March & White, into a new platform, one they call “elegance with an edge.”
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Interior Photos Provided By: March & White
Work of He(art) Elliot March and James White both take full advantage of the creative freedom that comes with their titles in their quest to push the boundaries of design. The designers’ collaboration has always been central to the label by forming a united front, full of dialogue and creative input to maximize and reach an end result—a masterpiece.
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he two masterminds have had their fair share of experiences, from transforming super-yachts, hotels and member’s clubs to working on commercial offices and residential projects. It’s safe to say March & White are establishing their label to worldwide prominence after being recognized as one of the top 100 interior designers in the world by Coveted Magazine. The pair mentioned they reached success after being appointed to work on a residential skyscraper with architect Rafael Viñoly in Manhattan, New York, which lead March & White to launch offices in New York and Los Angeles.
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Oui, Oui! March & White have grown to a team of over 30 people between their London, New York and LA offices. Aside from their current offices, the brand hopes to open a fourth location in the South of France.
“There’s nothing more satisfying than walking the project with your client and being invited for a drink at the bar you have just completed to celebrate.” — JA M E S W H I T E
Q: What would you both say has been your best design yet? Elliot March: Without a doubt, Project Jupiter. James White: Our recently completed super yacht captures all of our design principles. It’s elegant and customized with beautiful detail by specialist craftsmen. Q: Any exciting projects in the works? EM: All our projects excite us. Working with Simon Cowell on multiple homes around the world has pushed us to deliver super-yacht quality levels in a residential setting. Q: Is there a “dream project” you both would like to take a shot at some day? EM: One of our goals when founding the company was to design a yacht from scratch and that has already been fulfilled. Maybe the first class clubhouse for the commercial spaceport to Mars! JM: We’ve already completed every designer’s dream! The 100 meter plus super yacht! Our next dream is to design the ultimate home—a land yacht. Q: With a background in architecture, how does March & White incorporate that knowledge into projects? JW: It gives us an appreciation of form, function and light. Since university, Elliot and I have always designed from the inside out. This gives us a mastery of how a good interior should be, and when we create architecture, it generates something far more unique. Q: Describe the feeling of completing a project. EM: Rewarding beyond words. Some of the projects we design can take over four years to complete from inception. That’s a very long journey with one client. JW: It’s an emotional journey you take with your clients. There’s nothing more satisfying than walking the project with your client and
being invited for a drink at the bar you have just completed to celebrate. Q: Which design trends do you currently find the most fascinating? EM: One trend we are firmly interested in is the integration of technology and design. Making technology luxurious and appealing is something we are developing through our forthcoming capsule collection.
“All our projects excite us. Working with Simon Cowell on multiple homes around the world has pushed us to deliver superyacht quality levels in a residential setting.”— E L L I O T M A R C H
Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you both face that limit creativity/work? EM: Each project has its own unique set of challenges. The most common is the budget, both small and large. Out of adversity we create opportunity. With a large budget the challenge is to develop new materials and finish from scratch. JW: Challenges by their nature tend to encourage creativity! A compressed budget or lack of space can present opportunities for really clever designs! Q: Where do you both gather inspiration from? JW: We are inspired by travel, it’s one of the main influences in our studio and explains our wide-ranging client base. We both like to paint and that inspires our process and fires our creativity. Q: How is March & White set apart from other luxury design labels? EM: There are many great designers out there. We both share the same wonderment of children when it comes to design and that takes us a very long way when it comes to pushing the boundaries of the possible. JW: Our storytelling approach, really understanding our client’s likes and our attention to detail. Having a yachting division allows us to get in really close on the details.
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HOME/AWAY
The only hotel of its kind to offer panoramic views of the entire Westside to Downtown.
Suite Escape It’s All-Around Luxury at the Hotel Angeleno WRITTEN BY: JODY MILLER You’ve seen it. In fact, it seems to have been there as long as you can remember, even if you never knew what it was. Driving south along the 405 from the San Fernando Valley, it’s the landmark that proclaims your entry to the Westside. Driving north, it marks the entry into the Sepulveda Pass. So, what is that iconic cylindrical edifice rising from the mountains? It’s the Hotel Angeleno, a sleek boutique hotel auspiciously placed on the precipice of UCLA and Brentwood. The only hotel of its kind to offer panoramic views of the entire Westside to Downtown, an award-winning penthouse restaurant and service culture that dares to do everything outside of the proverbial box.
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WE ARE NOT SQUARE It may not be easy to be round in a square world, but Hotel Angeleno lives this philosophy with gusto down to the last detail. From the vintage LP shaped room keys to the no tipping policy, the delightfully unexpected can be found at every corner (oh wait, there are not corners!). “We are proud to say that our ‘We Are Not Square’ culture allows our guests to enjoy the most amazing amenities, and have a unique LA experience,” explains Sales and Marketing Director Dean Yamashita. The “un-square” amenities continue with free Wi-Fi, complimentary shuttle service within three miles, their Daily Wine Hour and Uber service that can be charged to your room. Join the Inner Circle Rewards Program and get the absolutely unheard of free valet parking, plus meal and beverage discounts among other benefits. According to Yamashita, “All these things are what make Hotel Angeleno stand out, and we will continue to strive for excellence by introducing new and fun services to our guests.” GO WEST TO THE TOP Perched atop the 17th-floor penthouse, the much lauded WEST Restaurant & Lounge boasts spectacular 360-degree views. WEST features delectable California cuisine and premium cocktails without a bad seat in the house. A favorite for locals and visitors, the bottomless mimosa and bloody mary weekend brunch is even better with items like Smoked Salmon Benedict and Crunchy Almond French Toast. WEST is also proud to launch its Jazz Brunch. It’s a welcome addition to an already stellar menu.
HOTEL ANGELENO 170 N Church Ln Los Angeles, CA 90049 310.476.6411 www.hotelangeleno.com
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ESCAPE TWO BUNCH PALMS 67425 Two Bunch Palms Trail Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240 760.329.879 www.twobunchpalms.com
Sweet SERENITY Detox at Two Bunch Palms in Desert Hot Springs This Weekend
WRITTEN BY: KARLI KARANDOS
Two Bunch Palms, by definition, truly is an oasis: a fertile spot in a desert where water is found.
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Table for Two, Please • Enjoy a more intimate dining experience at the Garden House! Seating in this quiet and quaint 234-square-foot area is available upon request.
Looking to escape for a weekend this summer?
Look no further than Two Bunch Palms in Desert Hot Springs. Two Bunch Palms is an award-winning destination wellness-resort located in the heart of the Southern California desert. This beautiful and sustainable adults-only resort promotes the idea that personal well-being and the health of the planet are of the same equation. Two Bunch Palms is the perfect summer destination to de-stress, unplug, and feed your mind, body and soul. They offer a wide range of wellness practices, classes, spa services and dining options. Discover Two Bunch Palms this summer—a true oasis within the desert.
Two Bunch Palms’ earthy atmosphere is both welcoming and relaxing. The rooms at Two Bunch Palms are minimal and yet, luxurious. The color palette is neutral tones; large and spacious rooms with sliding glass doors, wood accents and tiled floors. The Spring rooms are newly renovated and located nearest the spa and dining area, while the Meadow and Desert rooms are located beyond the meditation ponds and offer a bit more privacy. All rooms at Two Bunch Palms are designed to offer a digital detox; there are even some without TVs. The designs integrate and merge the soothing and calming outdoors with the elegance of an indoor living space. Two Bunch Palms, by definition, truly is an 114 LOCALE MAGAZINE
oasis: a fertile spot in a desert where water is found. At Two Bunch Palms, there lies a grotto whose waters come from Miracle Hill and has been flowing for over 600 years—healing, therapeutic, restorative and relaxing. The mineral waters found in The Grotto at Two Bunch Palms have many benefits. The mineral waters are cooled and then separated into two pool areas, with water ranging from 99-104 degrees Fahrenheit. Unlike most mineral spring pools, The Grotto at Two Bunch Palms has no unsettling sulfurous odor. This, along with the trees, stars, woodsy scent and charming desert creatures creates a completely romantic and dreamy ambiance. The spa at Two Bunch Palms is world-renowned for its combination of therapists, aestheticians
Suns Out, Fun Out • Two Bunch Palms offers all-inclusive specialty packages, which are perfect for a summer weekend escape! Summertime activities at the resort include water yoga, outdoor barbecues, poolside drinks and twilight spa treatments every Thursday from 3 to 9 p.m.
The dining options at Two Bunch Palms provide nourishment and replenishment to the body and mind; feed your soul from within.
Green Thumbs Up • In 2015, Two Bunch Palms was awarded Corporate Brand Dedicated to Sustainability by the Green Spa Network. Two Bunch Palms worked to redefine the wellness resort industry as a whole with their very own three and a half acre solar field, which is able to generate 100 percent of the resort’s electrical power needs through renewable energy!
and healers. Massage therapy, facials, shamanic healing, New Asian Therapy, reiki massage, and so much more can be found within the spa. All services at the spa are designed to restore both the body and mind. A day at the spa begins with a one hour ritual soak in The Grotto. This is known as “taking the waters” and is an important element and ideology at Two Bunch Palms. The spa is also a “whisper only” facility where silence and solitude can be found. A long day at the spa is sure to work up an appetite. The dining options at Two Bunch Palms provide nourishment and replenishment to the body and mind; feed your soul from within. Find a healthy, gourmet, farm-to-table menu at Essense, the restaurant
on site. Every menu item is sustainable, local when possible, seasonal and delicious. Handcrafted healing drinks, organic cocktails and an extensive wine list are also available! Movement and enrichment classes are available to those who stay at Two Bunch Palms. The resort offers over 60 classes, a swimming pool and tennis courts. The classes range anywhere from Power of Juicing with a Shaman to Harmonic Vibrations Sound Bath set in a 3,000-square-foot yoga dome. There is certainly something for everyone at Two Bunch Palms. Summer is the ideal time to hit the reset button. Do something good for your mind, body, soul and spirit and book a stay at Two Bunch Palms.
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CATCH LA 8715 Melrose Ave West Hollywood, CA 90069 323.347.6060 www.catchrestaurants.com
Smashed Organic Avocado Toast
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CATCH ME IF YOU CAN
UPGRADE YOUR BRUNCH GAME IN WEHO’S HOTTEST BRUNCH SPOT WRITTEN BY: DAMON GONZALEZ PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOE NARDELLO
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This West Hollywood hotspot is notorious for its exclusivity and celebrity patrons. On a daily basis, paparazzi camp outside hoping to catch a glimpse of Kendall Jenner, Leonardo DiCaprio or Jennifer Lopez emerging from the Melrose Avenue and San Vicente haunt.
Play Dress Up • A smart casual dress code is encouraged, but feel free to dress to the nine’s in case Ryan Gosling decides to stop by.
Like most buzz-worthy restaurants, the question is “Does CATC H L A live up to the hype?” The answer is yes. CATCH LA is one of four, with the others being in NYC, Playa Del Carmen and Dubai. Conceptualized by Eugene Remm and Mark Birnbaum, the duo behind the EMM Group hospitality enterprise, CATCH focuses on globally influenced seafood. Each location adds local flavor, with CATCH LA boasting delicious, fresh, local and sustainable ingredients. These elements make the rooftop eatery the perfect spot for a fabulous summer brunch.
Room to Grow • The eatery is huge, scaled up to 12,000 feet, meaning there is enough space for big groups, plus a retractable roof and intimate spots for more private, romantic dates.
Once stepping off the elevator, you are transported to a magical garden. The sound of flowing water surrounds the walkway to the entrance along with vines, vibrant florals and a feeling you truly have arrived somewhere special.
CATCH Roll made with salmon, crab and miso-honey and the Tartare Trio and Hearts of Palm Crabcakes are objects of affection. The Lobster Roll, served on a potato roll with veggie chips, is next level yumminess. Might I add, the Smashed Organic Avocado Toast topped with a poached egg is a drool-worthy delight.
The bright and spacious atmosphere seats 340 guests. Brick walls, wooden tables, carpets and luxe leather chairs provide a home-like comfort. A large, fully stocked bar and wrap-around windows and tall trees nestled throughout provide a zen ambiance and an effortless and posh vibe. It is chic without being pretentious. The cherry on top? Soak in the glorious views of the Hollywood Hills, the Pacific Design Center and Downtown.
And for those who opt for a more “classic” brunch menu, try the Cinnamon Roll Pancake. The brown sugar-cinnamon swirl with cream cheese frosting is decadent. To further satisfy your sweet tooth, order the gluten-free “Anytime Waffle Tower.” Maple, milk chocolate, raspberry ice cream, chocolate ganache, raspberry jam, all topped with toasted almonds and served Instagram ready. Wash that down with an icecold Almond Coffee, and you have achieved peak LA brunch goals. Lest we forget, the Frozé (aka Frozen Rosé), is served in a copper Absolut Elyx glass, adding a tipsy touch of class to make your usual bloody mary blush.
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The brunch menu curated by Executive Chef Andrew Carroll is as pretty as the hip, modelesque crowd. Appearance is everything, and the food at CATCH LA proves it. Presented beautifully, appetizers like the 118 LOCALE MAGAZINE
MENU
Q&A
WITH EXECUTIVE CHEF ANDREW CARROLL
Anytime Waffle Tower
CATCH Roll
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes Tartare Trio The Lobster Roll Fruit Plate Smashed Organic Avocado Toast BEVERAGES: Frozé Mimosa Iced Almond Coffee
Q: Where did you get inspiration to come up with menu items? Andrew Carroll: All over the world, people are becoming more interested in where their food is sourced and whether it adheres to a variety of dietary trends growing in popularity. At CATCH LA, we have done our best to be mindful of this increased awareness and have worked to incorporate wild caught, locally sourced and organic ingredients into our dishes while also ensuring a variety of options for vegetarian, vegan and glutenfree guests. Q: If I don't want to eat too heavy, what do you recommend? AC: For brunch, we have several lighter options from our Fine Herb Omelette to our Farro Health Bowl with seared salmon, market vegetables, falafel and a sunny-side up egg on top are great choices. Q: And for those who want to indulge? AC: The must-have heavy hitters, like the gluten free waffle ice cream tower and the Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, are great for sharing and easily
satisfy a sweet tooth for the entire table. Q: Name one dish everyone should try. AC: I love our brunch menu, but everyone should come back for dinner and try our Truffle Sashimi. It features thin, delicately sliced pieces of Hamachi and Yellowfin Tuna topped with fresh truffle puree and a delicate serving of caviar in a spicy chili ponzu. It’s a really special dish. Q: What makes the CATCH LA experience unique? AC: CATCH is unique because we work to create a complete, memorable experience that combines great food with great service and great vibes under one roof. Q: Describe the perfect brunch. AC: Good food and good friends are the keys to a perfect brunch. A beautiful environment and a great view don't hurt either! At CATCH, I'd start with a glass of Frozé and get an array of dishes like the Smashed Organic Avocado Toast and our truly next-level fresh fruit platter for the table before choosing an entree to enjoy all to myself.
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T H A N K YO U TO OUR PARTNERS Boardwalk 11 Bronzed Bunny Cienega Med Spa Cinépolis Classic Club Clique Hospitality | Pool House Constellation Brands Craig Shelly | Pandora CryoZone Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino Las Vegas Duke’s Malibu El Cholo Empire Music Ventures | Desert Oasis Music Festival German Tuning Company Hotel Angeleno Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern M Street Kitchen Manhattan Beach Parks & Recreation Miramonte Resort & Spa O+O Sicilian Kitchen & Bar OnTable Media Pendry San Diego Red O Taste of Mexico Rock & Brews Sanjay Grover MD, FACS Sheraton Carlsbad The Studio O Warren Christopher William Grant & Sons
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