NOVEMBER 2017 SOCALPULSE.COM
LOS ANGELES
BECAUSE YOU’VE ARRIVED HOT HOTEL DINING FRED SEGAL SUNSET & GOOP LAB FESTIVALS, CONCERTS & SHOWS EIGHT NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDES
WHEN NIGHT FALLS
21-PLUS NEW LOUNGES, NIGHTCLUBS AND BARS TO CHECK OUT TONIGHT
HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are ©are &© ™ &Warner Bros.Bros. Entertainment HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia ™ Warner Entertainment Inc. Harry PotterPotter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s17)(s17) The Walking DeadDead © 2017 AMCAMC Film Film Holdings Inc. Harry Publishing Rights © JKR. The Walking © 2017 Holdings LLC. LLC. All Rights Reserved. ©2017 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 17-ADV-21602 All Rights Reserved. ©2017 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 17-ADV-21602
BARBIZON & BEYOND Master paintings from the 19th Century
G A L E R I E
M I C H A E L
Open to the public and with complimentary parking 224 NORTH RODEO DRIVE | BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90210 Monday-Saturday 10-7 | Sunday 11-5 | 310 273 3377 www.galeriemichael.com | art@galeriemichael.com BORDIGNON, NoĂŠ, 1841-1920 | La primavera della vita, circa 1905 | Oil on canvas | Signed lower left Provenance: Christie's, New York, 27 January 1979, lot 152 | Literature: A. B. Pastega, 'NoĂŠ Bordignon, Il cantore del Pedemonte del grappa,' L'Illustre Bassanese, no. 135/136, January-March 2012, p. 13, illustrated, as 'Contadina che torna dai campi' Exhibition history: Florence, Associazione degli Artisti Italiani, Esposizione 1906-1907, 1 November 1906 - 30 June 1907, as either no. 36, Riposto or no. 37, Tramonto d'estate | 57 x 34 in
where
LOS ANGELES November 2017 THE NIGHTLIFE ISSUE
CONTENTS
THE GUIDE
DEPARTMENTS
54 DINING
5 Editor’s Note Gratitude.
Notable restaurants by cuisine and neighborhood
6 Hot Dates
65 ENTERTAINMENT
Special events, performing arts and sports
AFI Fest shines a cinematic spotlight on Hollywood; pop stars and ’80s rockers take the stage at concerts across the city; and Descanso Gardens’ enchanted forest and the Hollywood Christmas Parade put us in the holiday mood.
66 ATTRACTIONS
Theme parks, activities, studio tours, museums and more 70 SHOPPING
The county’s major retail destinations
80 30 Things We Love Decadent drinks, dazzling diamonds, tasty toasts and other treats tickling our fancies.
72 NIGHTLIFE
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Hot bars and cool clubs
Haute housewares at Goop Lab
WHERE NOW
74 TOURS + TRANSPORT
Getting out, getting around and getting to know Los Angeles
8 Shopping
10 Dining Ricardo Zarate is back with a new Peruvian entry, Rosaliné, and Jordan Kahn disrupts the L.A. dining scene with his experimental Vespertine.
Spire 73 rooftop bar
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12 Name Your Poison
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17 Dining In Beautiful new luxury and boutique hotels are opening by the day in L.A., and their culinary offerings live up to their sumptuous and stylish surroundings. BY ROGER GRODY
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L.A.’s nightlife scene, from West L.A. to downtown, is sizzling. Whether you’re more at home at an exclusive lounge, a swanky supper club or a laid-back brewpub, we’ve got you covered with our guide to buzzy new drinking destinations. BY SUZANNE ENNIS AND GILLIAN GLOVER
ON THE COVER A martini at Birds & Bees. Photo by Acuna-Hansen
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FROM TOP: JESSICA SAMPLE FOR GOOP; WONHO FRANK LEE
A stylish new Compartés Chocolatier is a highlight of Westfield Century City’s $1 billion makeover; Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop sets up shop in Brentwood; and the iconic Fred Segal has a new global flagship.
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where MAGAZINE
PUBLISHER EDITOR
Jeff Levy
Suzanne Ennis
ART DIRECTOR
Carol Wakano
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Benjamin Epstein
PRODUCTION ARTIST Diana Gonzalez CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER Heidi Schwindt ASSOCIATE EDITOR Gillian Glover COPY EDITOR Brenda Wong CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Teena Apeles, Roger Grody, Marina Kay CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dale Berman, Brown Cannon III, Matt Hartman, Edwin Santiago SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jessica Levin Poff
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Tim Egan, Joel Gilliam, Heather Price, Brooke Knetzger, Crystal Sierra BUSINESS MANAGER
Leanne Killian Riggar
CIRCULATION / SPECIAL EVENTS MANAGER
Jennifer Salas
MARKETING/PRODUCTION MANAGER
Dawn Kiko Cheng
DIGITAL STRATEGIST
Christina Wiese ADMINISTRATION
Whitney Lauren Han, Madelyn Harris, Kamryn Stelly NATIONAL SALES
Tiffany Reinhold 714.813.6600 DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL DIGITAL SALES Bridget Cody 706.821.6663 HONORARY PRESIDENT
Ted Levy
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3679 Motor Ave., Suite 300 Los Angeles, California 90034 Phone: 310.280.2880 Fax: 310.280.2890 EMAIL Editorial Suzanne.Ennis@WhereLA.com Art Art@WhereLA.com Production Ads@WhereLA.com Website Christina.Wiese@WhereLA.com Circulation Jennifer.Salas@WhereLA.com Plan for your next visit to Los Angeles. Subscribe to where: single copy $4, 12 issues $36. Contact: Jennifer Salas. Phone: 310.280.2880 Email: Jennifer.Salas@WhereLA.com © 2017 Southern California Media Group. All rights reserved. Published by Southern California Media Group. where makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited. where is a registered trademark of Morris Visitor Publications.
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WELCOME
LOST & FOUND
A Note From the Editor
Gratitude
DANIEL ENNIS
Thanksgiving is Nov. 23 this year, and I am already dreaming of cranberry sauce, stuffing and pumpkin pie. But food (and Black Friday) aside, what I’ve come to appreciate most about Thanksgiving is that it emphasizes being thankful for what we have versus getting what we want. In that spirit, please indulge me as I share a few things for which I’m grateful. First and foremost, I want to say thank you to all of my family, friends and colleagues.
WOMEN • MEN • KIDS • HOME
To a person, they are supportive, encouraging, helpful and loving—and they put up with a lot, believe you me. I’m also grateful for the power of community. Over the last few months, I’ve witnessed neighbors—as well as complete strangers—band together to help those affected by natural and man-made disasters, support one another through tragedy and fight for what they believe is right. It would be easy to dwell on all that’s negative in the world, but when I think about that widely shared quote from Mister Rogers’ mother— “Look for the helpers”—and I discover that I’m surrounded by them, I’m filled with inspiration and optimism instead. On a lighter note, I’m so lucky to live and work in Los Angeles. This issue is full of arguments for why this is the most exciting city in the world right now—in the fields of dining, nightlife, the arts, fashion, hospitality, you name it—and it’s a thrill to be in the midst of it all, scoping out the best activities and spots to share with you. Which leads me to another gift for which I’m thankful: visitors to L.A., such as yourself, who make the city more vibrant, support our local economy and inspire us at Where Los Angeles to do our best every day. We’re honored to be part of your vacation, and we wish you a very happy Thanksgiving. May it be filled with love, gratitude and delicious homemade pie. —SUZANNE ENNIS
Food (and Black Friday) aside, what I’ve come to appreciate most about Thanksgiving is that it emphasizes being thankful for what we have versus getting what we want.
a collection of shops
Santa Monica Hollywood 2230 Main St 6320 Yucca St.
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WHERE CALENDAR
HOT DATES November 2017
LET’S DO THIS Because we just want to have fun IN NOVEMBER
L.A. Dance Project Nov. 2-4
Artistic director Benjamin Millepied’s dance company begins its residency at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts with a program of four works. p. 66
L.A. Comedy Fest Nov. 9-19
A diverse lineup of comedy acts and films tickles funny bones at the Let Live Theatre. p. 65
Enchanted: Forest of Light Opening Nov. 19
NOV. 9-16 COMING ATTRACTIONS
Each November, filmmakers, celebrities and movie lovers all pour into Hollywood theaters for the American Film Institute’s annual AFI Fest. 2017 marks the 31st edition of the event, making it L.A.’s longest-running international film festival. Expect a lineup of highly anticipated new films and awards-season contenders. This year’s fest closes with Ridley Scott’s All the Money in the World (pictured above), starring Mark Wahlberg, Michelle Williams and Kevin Spacey, who plays J. Paul Getty. p. 65
This mile-long walk through colorfully lit gardens and trees returns to Descanso. descansogardens.org
Tattoo: An Exhibition Opening Nov. 19
The Natural History Museum’s special exhibit explores tattoo history and culture. p. 70
Turkey Trot Los Angeles Nov. 23
Face the Music It’s a big month for concerts in Los Angeles. First up, on Nov. 4, pop rockers OK Go (pictured right) livescore their innovative music videos at Royce Hall as part of the eclectic programming by UCLA’s Center for the Art of Performance. On
Nov. 7, 8 and 10, pop songstress and new American Idol judge Katy Perry brings Witness: The Tour to Staples Center. Creating stiff competition, Bruno Mars takes the stage with his 24K Magic at the Forum on Nov. 7-8 and 10-11. More into
’80s rock? Morrissey plays the Hollywood Bowl on Nov. 10-11, joined by special guest Billy Idol. And L.A. rock band Guns N’ Roses returns to the Paradise City with shows at Staples Center (Nov. 24) and the Forum (Nov. 25 and 29). pp. 65-66
HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Check out our Weekend Roundup at socalpulse.com for the up-to-the-minute lowdown on the coolest concerts, plays, sporting events, festivals, art exhibitions and restaurants.
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The Hollywood Christmas Parade Nov. 26
Floats, marching bands and celebrities make their way through Hollywood during this annual holiday extravaganza. p. 65
Zadie Smith & Michael Chabon: A Conversation Nov. 30
At UCLA’s Royce Hall, the acclaimed authors discuss the similarities between their latest novels. p. 65
FROM TOP: COURTESY AFI FEST; COURTESY OK GO
Runners hit DTLA’s streets Thanksgiving morning to burn calories and raise money for charity. p. 65
Nov. 4-29
art is just the beginning Art lives at the Getty, even outside the frame. Home to an exquisite collection of pre-20th-century European art, 20th-century photographs, outdoor sculpture, and lush gardens, the Getty also offers interactive courses, fine dining, family festivals, and exclusive film screenings, among other great programs! Explore all the Getty has to offer and plan your visit today at getty.edu/center.
Connect with us
WHERE NOW The best in shopping and dining
SHOPPING
The Sweet Life Shopping center Westfield Century City recently reopened after a $1 billion restoration, and the reimagined mall is a revelation. Among the new offerings: a three-level Nordstrom, Amazon Books, Tesla and boutiques Oak + Fort, Aritzia and Current/Elliott, plus scores more. Compartés Chocolatier’s new Kelly Wearstler-designed flagship store, pictured here, is a chocolate lover’s
dream. Inside the Italian-marble and antiqued-brass interior, find the L.A. brand’s artful candy bars and truffles, as well as chocolate on tap and new frozen hot chocolate, topped with Compartés bars and edible 24-karat gold. On the dining front, the mall boasts options like Shake Shack, Wexler’s Deli and the West Coast’s first Eataly—Mario Batali’s eagerly awaited Italian food hall. p. 72
From left: Goop x Christian Louboutin Konstantina pumps; Gwyneth Paltrow with Louboutin
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY GOOP; EMILY BERL; COURTESY FRED SEGAL. OPPOSITE: JAKOB LAYMAN
THE HOUSE OF GOOP Goop, the burgeoning modern-lifestyle brand founded by Gwyneth Paltrow, just opened its first permanent brick-and-mortar store, and it’s like a portal into the tastemaker’s well-appointed world. Tucked inside the tony Brentwood Country Mart, Goop Lab draws you through its flower-filled mudroom/greenhouse into a bright, brass-detailed kitchen that provides ample space for cooking demos (note the Staub x Goop cookware). Nearby, an apothecary invites you to sample an array of wellness and clean-beauty products from brands such as Goop Skincare, Moon Juice and True Botanicals. Finally, you’re seduced into a sumptuous living room outfitted with a daybed and bar cart by the store’s designers, Roman and Williams (who also collaborated with Paltrow on her private residences). There, find fashionable wardrobe essentials, including pieces from the Goop label and designer collaborations, such as a limited-edition capsule collection of shoes created with Christian Louboutin. Slip on a pair and make yourself at home. 225 26th St., Suite 37, Santa Monica, 310.260.4072, goop.com
Fred Hot The word “iconic” gets
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Bill Chait, Tesse, where you
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in West Hollywood honors
pop-up space that features
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Replika Vintage at Fred Segal Sunset
WHERE LOS ANGELES 9
WHERE NOW / November
2017
The garden at Vespertine
SPACE-AGE DINING When experimental, experiential (and expensive) restaurant Vespertine opened in Culver City in July, it quickly became the most talked-about entry in the L.A. dining scene—some critics described the overall experience as akin to dining on another planet. Conceived by chef Jordan Kahn, Vespertine is housed in a wavy steel-and-glass building designed by architect Eric Owen Moss. Step into the 22-seat dining room for a meal consisting of 18-plus courses—many of which look more like modern art than food, leaving you wondering just how to dig in. Intrigued? Head to vespertine.la to book your ticket online. D (Tu-Sa). 3599 Hayden Ave., Culver City, 323.320.4023
Melrose Mezcla Ricardo Zarate is back on L.A.’s dining scene with a new Melrose hot spot, Rosaliné. Named after the chef’s mother, the bustling restaurant serves fare inspired by the traditional Peruvian home cooking on which Zarate and his 12 siblings were raised—e.g., juane de chancho (pork osso buco with adobo, soft garbanzo tamale and egg wrapped in a banana leaf)—alongside dishes with California and street-food influences (don’t miss the chaufa paella, available 10 SOCALPULSE.COM
in seafood and vegetarian versions). A ceviche bar boasts a menu that changes weekly, and another bar serves up mixologist Jeremy Lake’s Peruvian cocktails. Order a pisco sour, and it’ll arrive in a hand-painted ceramic mug, along with instructions to hold the mug with two hands while drinking your first sip to pay your respects to another matriarch: “Pachamama,” or Mother Earth. D (nightly). 8479 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.297.9500, rosalinela.com
Rosaliné’s aceitunas
FROM TOP: JEFF ELLSTONE; CARLA CHOY PHOTOGRAPHY
DINING
OSKA 9693 Wilshire Boulevard Beverly Hills, CA 90212 310 271 2806 OSKA 13 Douglas Alley Pasadena, CA 91103 626 432 1729 Shop online beverlyhills.oska.com
Beverly Hills / Chicago / Minneapolis / Healdsburg / Mill Valley / New York / Pasadena / Seattle / Calgary / Vancouver London / Paris / Munich / Amsterdam / Stockholm
NAME YOUR POISON As night falls across Los Angeles, revelers slip past velvet ropes, sidle up to swanky bars and settle into laid-back pubs. Find the spot that suits your taste among this fresh crop of nightlife destinations. By SUZANNE ENNIS AND GILLIAN GLOVER
The Desi Arnaz cocktail at Birds & Bees
MIDCENTURY DENS
→ FROM TOP: ELIZABETH DANIELS; GREY CRAWFORD. OPPOSITE: ACUNA-HANSEN
Birds & Bees » Catch a buzz at this subterranean speakeasy, accessed through a yellow door at the back of a parking lot. The bar is reminiscent of a midcentury-modern living room—complete with a hanging fireplace— and the drink menu features both midcentury cocktails and concoctions inspired by musicians of the 1950s, including Ella Fitzgerald and Desi Arnaz. 207 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.537.0510, birdsandbeesla.com Lono » A combination of kitsch and sophistication, this tropical-themed bar from the team behind Melrose Umbrella Co. marries banana-leaf wallpaper, woven furniture and nautical charm with the glamour of Old Hollywood. A menu of classic Tiki-inspired cocktails and punch bowls pairs with island-style fare. Explore the “luau” platters for four or more, available by reservation with 48 hours notice. 6611 Hollywood Blvd., L.A., 323.848.4475, lonohollywood.com
VIP-PACKED NIGHTCLUBS Avenue » Among Tao Group’s hot concepts at Hollywood’s new Dream Hotel is this exclusive nightclub, which draws the young, beautiful and famous Tuesday, Friday and Saturday nights (recent sightings include Tyga, Bella Thorne, Kendall Jenner and Blake Griffin). To get inside the velvet-upholstered lair,
you’ll need to impress a doorman or nab a table reservation. Not your scene? Visit adjacent Beauty & Essex, which offers a variety of fabulous settings in which to dine and imbibe. 1601 Cahuenga Blvd., L.A., 323.593.7999, avenuela.com Poppy » The newest nightclub concept from the H.Wood Group, designed by John Sofio of Built, Inc., will make you
feel like you’re Alice and have fallen down the rabbit hole. Jared Leto and Katy Perry have partied in the foliage-filled atrium (pictured above) and surreal, librarylike lounge amid role-playing hostesses. Poppy is open Thursday nights only, so plan accordingly. 55 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.855.7185, hwoodgroup.com
SKY-HIGH HAUNTS
Broken Shaker, The Highlight Room, Spire 73 » In L.A., you can sip drinks alfresco year-round—with a panoramic view, to boot. At downtown L.A.’s new Freehand Los Angeles, Broken Shaker offers handcrafted cocktails on the hotel’s 14th-floor rooftop pool deck. Dream Hollywood’s Highlight Room combines a lounge, pool and grill on the hotel’s rooftop, with views of the Hollywood sign and L.A. skyline. Craving even higher altitudes? Spire 73, the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown’s 73rd-floor rooftop lounge, is the highest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere. Read about them in our dining feature. p. 17 Filifera » Enjoy cocktails, California-inspired snacks and sweeping city views at this Kelly Wearstler-designed bar and lounge on the 22nd floor of the Hollywood Proper Residences (pictured left). Reservations required. 1550 N. El Centro Ave., L.A., 323.786.3762, filiferahollywood.com WHERE LOS ANGELES 13
VEGAN VENUE
LATE-NIGHT DINING DESTINATIONS
WINE-CENTRIC STOPS
Delilah » Kendall Jenner celebrated her 21st birthday at this sumptuous art deco-style restaurant (pictured below), another Sofio-designed hit from the H.Wood Group. Dine on classic fare like deviled eggs and chicken tenders—and maybe a “Kendall’s Slutty Brownie” for dessert— before indulging in lounge-style bottle service and dancing the night away. 7969 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.745.0600, delilahla.com Mama Lion » This Koreatown supper club helmed by chef Michael Hung pairs craft cocktails with a continental menu (e.g., oysters on the half shell and smothered tater tots with short-rib chili) against a glamorous backdrop. A late-night menu Tuesdays through Saturdays keeps the fun going till the wee hours. 601 S. Western Ave., L.A., 213.377.5277, mamalion.com
Hayden » Led by Ari Kolender, this all-day option at the Platform complex in Culver City pairs a seafood-forward menu with a beer and wine list curated by the young, talented beverage director Anthony Cailan. Small producers dominate the list, and bottles can be purchased for later or— even better—enjoyed on the premises. Go during “Golden Hour,” between 6 and 7 p.m., for wine and oyster specials. 8820 Washington Blvd., Culver City, hayden.la Good Measure » It’s no surprise that this intimate new wine bar/restaurant is garnering praise; it comes from Matthew Kaner of L.A. favorites Bar Covell and Augustine Wine Bar. More than 30 wines by the glass? Family friendly? Yes, please. 3224 Glendale Blvd., Atwater Village, 323.426. 9461, goodmeasurela.com
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BREWPUBS, BEER BARS & TASTING ROOMS Los Angeles Ale Works » Employees from nearby
SpaceX pack LAAW’s tasting room (from founder and head brewer Kip Barnes), which opens onto a sprawling patio served by beer trucks. Try the Space XPA Session IPA and Space XPA-Full Thrust Double IPA, named in honor of the brewery’s rocket-building neighbor. 12918 Cerise Ave., Hawthorne, laaleworks.com Mikkeller DTLA » More than 60 beers, wines and ciders are on tap at this Danish brewing company’s first L.A. location (a selection from which is pictured above), which opened in a 100-year-old auto-repair shop early this year. There’s a full restaurant menu and a café open daily, too. 330 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.596.9005, mikkellerbar.com The Stalking Horse Brewery and Freehouse » Cornish fare and craft beers are among the draws at this handsome, British-pubinspired spot from Artisanal Brewers Collective. Admire the seven-barrel brewing system inside, then plant yourself in the biergarten with a pint and a pastie. 10543 W. Pico Blvd., L.A., 424.832.7511, thestalkinghorsepub.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY GRATITUDE; WONHO FRANK LEE; ELIZABETH DANIELS
Gratitude Beverly Hills » If you think vegan dining options are all virtue and no vice, think again: Gratitude Beverly Hills has a full bar and great happy hour led by beverage manager Jon Eiswerth. The upscale sister restaurant to Café Gratitude pairs its plantbased cuisine with cocktails like Spa Water (gin, lime, mint, absinthe and green chlorophyll espuma) and Cleanstini (vodka, lemon, turmeric, ginger, cayenne, maple syrup and micro-filtered water; pictured left). Hard GT’s Kombucha and organic wine and beer round out the naughty/nice offerings. 419 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 424.389.1850, cafegratitude.com
Ever Bar at Kimpton Everly Hotel
FROM TOP: COURTESY KIMPTON HOTELS; COURTESY PATINA GROUP
LUXE LOBBY BARS Ever Bar » Live music Thursday nights, views of the Capitol Records Building through floorto-ceiling windows and small bites from Jane Q restaurant elevate this lofted bar to a bona fide destination. Kimpton Everly Hotel, 1800 Argyle
Ave., L.A., 213.279.3534, everlyhotelhollywood.com João » Old Hollywood glamour is the vibe at the Jeremy Hotel’s first-floor bar, which boasts generous banquettes and an outdoor lounge where you can sip classic cocktails. Jeremy Hotel, 8490 W. Sunset Blvd., West
MUSICAL HIDEAWAYS
The BoardRoom » Thursday through Saturday evenings, this newer French-accented speakeasy adjacent to Kendall’s Brasserie and under the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is the place to cap off a show. Live jazz, tasty bites, festive punch bowls, cocktail flights
Hollywood, 310.424.1600, jeremyhotel.com Rudolph’s Bar & Tea » The Freehand hotel gives the standard lobby-bar menu a twist with coffeeand tea-infused cocktails. Pinkies up! Freehand Los Angeles, 416 W. 8th St., downtown, 213.612.0021, freehandhotels.com
and drinks named after luminaries including William Faulkner (coconut-washed Four Roses bourbon, demerara sugar, orange peel and toasted pecan bitters) and Frida Kahlo (Ilegal Joven mezcal, aperol, lime and Giffard vanilla) make this spot très sophistiqué. (Detail pictured left.) Music Center, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.8556, theboardroomla.com The Peppermint Club » The H.Wood Group partnered with Interscope Records to create this ’60s-inspired lounge, which has welcomed the likes of Usher, Machine Gun Kelly and comedian Dave Chappelle to its stage. The guest list reflects the onstage star power: Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber and Amber Rose have all partied on premises. 8713 Beverly Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.335.0575, peppermintclub.com
34 EAST UNION STREET PASADENA, CA 91103 6 2 6 • 7 4 4 • 9 9 6 3 WWW.GOLDBUGPASADENA.COM
Shopping is fun at this high-end designer resale store, offering the best of recent and vintage Chanel, Vuitton, Prada and more!
Clothes Heaven
111 E. Union St. 626.440.0929 clothesheaven.com WHERE LOS ANGELES 15
INDULGE EVERY CRAVING THE NEW WESTFIELD CENTURY CIT Y. NOW OPEN.
AMC THEATRES | AMAZON BOOKS | APPLE | EQUINOX NORDSTROM | TESL A | TIFFANY & CO. westfield.com/centurycity
DI N I NG I N L.A.’S NEW HOTEL RESTAURANTS ARE DESTINATIONS UNTO THEMSELVES.
AVABLU
By Roger Grody
LOS ANGELES is experiencing a flurry of hotel construction, with historic buildings reimagined as boutique hostelries and luxury brands transforming the skyline with glitzy towers. Not long ago, a hotel restaurant was the last place an ambitious chef would aspire to work—but now, to the benefit of visitors as well as locals, that’s exactly where you’ll find some of L.A.’s top culinary talent. WHERE LOS ANGELES 17
L.A.’s culinary clout is on the rise, and underscoring that point is the arrival of JeanGeorges Vongerichten. The New York-based chef/restaurateur with a galaxy of Michelin stars and more than 35 restaurants worldwide recently debuted Jean-Georges Beverly Hills at the new Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, a sleek tower next to the Beverly Hilton. Designer Pierre-Yves Rochon created a light and airy space for the dining room of JeanGeorges Beverly Hills, with a wavy bronzeinlaid terrazzo floor, long leather banquettes, boxed lemon trees and an atmosphere that lacks the solemnity usually associated with temples of gastronomy. Additionally, year-round alfresco dining is available on a Mediterranean-garden-inspired patio that celebrates L.A.’s laid-back lifestyle. One might begin with artistically presented toasted egg yolks with caviar, a Jean-Georges signature, or vibrantly colored Santa Barbara uni seasoned with jalapeño and yuzu, served on black-bread crostini. For entrées, a caramelized beef tenderloin is complemented by miso-mustard, while Parmesan-crusted chicken is sauced in a lemon beurre blanc. Another big splash in L.A.’s dining scene came courtesy of Tao—famous in Manhattan and Las Vegas for its dazzling decor, lychee martinis, lobster wontons and Peking duck. The local branch is part of a complex anchored by Hollywood’s new Dream Hotel, an emerging modern luxury chain with properties in New York, Florida’s South Beach and Bangkok. A stunning 20-foot statue of Quan Yin, the goddess of mercy, rises from a koi pond to dominate Tao Los Angeles’ soaring dining room. It is a dramatic, sexy dining spot, 18 SOCALPULSE.COM
and the quality of the pan-Asian fare exceeds expectations for this kind of clubby scene. Tao Group created other venues at Dream Hollywood, as well: new concept Luchini Pizzeria & Bar, Avenue nightclub, The Highlight Room—an 11,000-square-foot, poolside rooftop lounge with a retractable canopy—and a third location of Beauty & Essex. Consistent with the company’s DNA, Beauty & Essex features over-the-top theatrical decor, and the fun, eclectic fare from Chopped judge Chris Santos extends far beyond the Pacific Rim. Starters include steak tartare on sticky rice cakes and grilled-cheesesandwich-like dumplings, each presented in a spoon filled with tomato soup. Main courses include tandoori-spiced chicken, followed by riffs on all-American desserts. Another new lodging opportunity in Hollywood is the Kimpton-branded Everly Hotel, where all-day Jane Q offers great versatility. Duck-confit monkey bread and a croque monsieur may appear as breakfast items, while black-truffle calzone and roasted skirt steak with chimichurri are among the lunch and dinner offerings. Jane Q accommodates casual suppers before a show at the Pantages Theatre, and the hotel’s Ever Bar offers a large repertoire of creative mixology. Recently opening at Wilshire Grand Center—thanks to a spire piercing the clouds, the building is now the tallest west of Chicago—is the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown. The 889-room hotel supports multiple eating and drinking establishments, several of which use height to their advantage. On the 69th floor is an all-day buffet-style restaurant named Dekkadance, as well as sushi restau-
rant Sora, while Spire 73—the highest openair bar in the Western Hemisphere—offers a creative lounge menu and spectacular views. The most ambitious dining option at the InterContinental is La Boucherie on 71, featuring a French-influenced steakhouse menu. Given La Boucherie’s lofty location, floor-toceiling windows capture stunning downtown views from tables of richly striated marble slabs, paired with curvy club chairs and tufted booths. Wine racks are ensconced behind smoky glass, while modern lighting fixtures complete a sophisticated scene. A French accent permeates the appetizer page at La Boucherie, with dishes such as salmon en croute, seared foie gras with appletarte tatin and onion-soup gratinée. Shareable starters also include ris de veau (sweetbreads) with chanterelles and even veal kidneys—increasingly hard to find in Paris, let alone L.A.—plated with grape mustard and morels. Dry-aged USDA Prime beef takes center stage for entrées, as well as game and fish. The experience at La Boucherie on 71 includes diners choosing their steak knives from an international collection and selecting from an even wider array of mustards and sea salts. A $55 million makeover is concluding at the historic Hotel Figueroa, where an ornate Moroccan decor has been stripped in favor of an updated version of the original Spanish Mission Revival interior. With close proximity to L.A. Live, the Fig (slated for an October 2017 reopening) is sure to reassert itself as a significant downtown destination, driven in
FROM TOP: WARREN JAGGER; BILLY FARRELL, COURTESY WALDORF ASTORIA BEVERLY HILLS. OPPOSITE, FROM LEFT: AVABLU; COURTESY FREEHAND HOTEL
From top: Tao Los Angeles’ dramatic dining room; chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten of Jean-Georges Beverly Hills. Opposite, left: Grilled cheese, smoked bacon and tomato-soup dumplings at Beauty & Essex. Opening page: Tao’s tuna Pringles
part by local celebrity chef Casey Lane. At Breva, the hotel’s main dining room, Lane has created a contemporary Basqueinspired menu, accompanied by drinks from innovative mixologist Dushan Zaric of New York’s Employees Only and Macao Trading Co. Zaric also dispenses his liquid specialties and accompanying pintxos from the two-story, curvilinear Bar Figueroa, while Bar Alta is a reservations-only bartender’s table at which guests enjoy personalized, interactive service from Zaric and other nationally recognized mixologists. Another dining concept developed by Lane, Viale dei Romani, opens imminently at Kimpton La Peer Hotel in West Hollywood.
Less than a block away from the Fig is the new 18-story Hotel Indigo, part of the $1 billion Metropolis project rising above the 110 Freeway as it meanders through downtown. For dining, the Indigo offers Metropole Bar + Kitchen, a ground-floor restaurant whose design was inspired by the service tunnels crisscrossing beneath downtown L.A., which were used as secret passageways to illicit speakeasies during Prohibition. Executive chef Kevin Harry, a veteran of luxury hotels, offers starters like the W.T.F. (compressed watermelon, tomato and feta) and sexy foie-gras wontons with mango mustard before turning out a contemporary twist on steak frites, hoisin barbecue salmon and a vegetarian tagine from his eclectic menu. For a nightcap, an elevator ride to 18 Social, the Indigo’s top-floor cocktail lounge, is a no-brainer. Downtown’s Fashion District, long a secret destination for savvy shoppers, has suddenly
become, for lack of a better term, fashionable. New loft residences are creating demand for trendy cafés and shops, and ambitious redevelopment projects are reshaping the neighborhood. Capitalizing on the district’s newfound appeal is Tuck Hotel, a boutique property with 14 sleek, fashion-forward rooms. Delicat, the hotel’s restaurant, is a chic study in grays and browns, with modern art and a polished live-edge wooden bar. For brunch, Delicat serves breakfast dishes and sandwiches that include 24-hour-smoked brisket with caramelized onions, and pancetta with potatoes and a fried egg—the last ingredient is a popular accoutrement to several other sandwiches on the menu. Delicat also offers an authentic tortilla de patata (Spanish omelet) served with silky aioli, and chef/hotelier Juan Pablo Torre shows off more of his Spanish heritage on a dinner menu that includes croquetas de azafrán (saffron croquettes) and crispy paella with artichokes and mushrooms. Also new to downtown is Sydell Group’s Freehand LA, part of a small chain that emphasizes local culture. Occupying the repurposed historic Commercial Exchange Building, the hotel offers a blend of traditional rooms and communal accommodations. For dining, the Freehand presents The Exchange, where, in true L.A. multicultural style, an Israeliinspired menu is prepared by chef Alex Chang, who is Mexican-Chinese. The restaurant’s decor, from designers Roman and Williams, retains restored mosaic owls in the tile floor, from when an Owl Drug Store occupied the space. Desert plants line broad windows, while modern lighting fixtures illuminate a scene that seems to straddle two eras. Chang, whose résumé includes L.A.’s Animal and Mexico City’s world-renowned Pujol, offers chili-spiked hummus and a chicken-liver-foie gras pâté with tangerine jam and fermented date honey. Larger plates include trout with black-olive-seaweed chermoula, and hanger steak with black harissa. France, Italy, Lebanon and Israel are all represented on the wine list, while cocktails incorporate Middle Eastern ingredients. Creative cocktails (along with street-foodinspired snacks) star at laid-back Broken Shaker, on the Freehand’s lushly landscaped rooftop pool deck. The award-winning bar debuted at the Freehand Miami, but it is a particularly fitting—and compelling—example of L.A.’s revitalized hotel-dining scene.
THE HOT(EL) SPOTS 18 Social, Hotel Indigo, 899 Francisco St., downtown, 213.232.8800 Avenue, Dream Hotel, 1601 Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, 323.593.7999 Bar Alta, Hotel Figueroa, 939 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 877.724.1973 Bar Figueroa, Hotel Figueroa, 939 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 877.724.1973 Beauty & Essex, Dream Hotel, 1615 Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, 323.676.8880 Breva, Hotel Figueroa, 939 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 877.724.1973 Broken Shaker, Freehand LA, 416 W. 8th St., downtown, 213.612.0021 Dekkadance, InterContinental, 900 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.688.7777 Delicat, Tuck Hotel, 820 S. Spring St., downtown, 213.947.3815 Ever Bar, Everly Hotel, 1800 Argyle Ave., Hollywood, 213.279.3534 The Exchange (pictured above), Freehand LA, 416 W. 8th St., downtown, 213.395.9531 The Highlight Room, Dream Hotel, 6417 Selma Ave., Hollywood, 323.844.6417 Jane Q, Everly Hotel, 1800 Argyle Ave., Hollywood, 213.279.3534 Jean-Georges Beverly Hills, Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, 9850 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.860.6666 La Boucherie on 71, InterContinental, 900 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.688.7777 Luchini Pizzeria & Bar, Dream Hotel, 1607 Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, 323.593.7771 Metropole Bar + Kitchen, Hotel Indigo, 899 Francisco St., downtown, 213.232.8800 Sora, InterContinental, 900 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.688.7777 Spire 73, InterContinental, 900 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.688.7777 Tao Los Angeles, Dream Hotel, 6421 Selma Ave., Hollywood, 323.593.7888 Viale dei Romani, La Peer Hotel, 627 N. La Peer Drive, West Hollywood, 855.239.4324
FIND YOUR
MARINA MOMENT Where living in the moment means paddleboarding to breakfast. Seizing the day can be a mid-morning sailing lesson, parasailing over the marina or cycling to Venice Beach. Embracing an evening is toasting the sunset and dancing under the star-kissed sky on a harbor cruise. It’s all here... what will your Marina adventure be? Check out visitmarinadelrey.com or call 310.305.9545 for information. Get connected with Marina del Rey
WHERE ABOUTS
MARVIN BRAUDE BIKE TRAIL, PHOTO BY BROWN CANNON III/INTERSECTION PHOTOS
Los Angeles is the most populous county in the nation and among the most culturally diverse. Its 4,000 square miles encompass dozens of cities and more than 200 neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. The pages that follow will guide you through the most visited among them, pointing out starring attractions and uncovering hidden gems along the way.
CIT Y TOURS 22 26 30 34 38 42 44 46
Beverly Hills Santa Monica West Hollywood Hollywood Downtown Pasadena The Valley South Bay
THE MANSIONS
/ RODEO DRIVE + GOLDEN TRIANGLE / THE INDUSTRY + THE ARTS / CENTURY CITY
BEVERLY HILLS It’s only 5 square miles, but Beverly Hills looms large in pop culture as a posh locale that boasts some of the priciest mansions in L.A. County, not to mention the country’s most recognizable ZIP code. Rodeo Drive, perhaps the world’s most famous shopping street, offers virtually every luxury fashion brand.
THE MANSIONS The launch of Beverly Hills’ glamorous reputation dates to the early 20th century, when the opening of the Beverly Hills Hotel ushered in a frenzy of movie-star mansion-building in the hills north of Sunset Boulevard. Today, the population of 35,000 is more socioeconomically diverse than its depiction on TV and in movies might suggest. Nonetheless, the triumvirate of Beverly Hills, Holmby Hills and Bel-Air still attracts its share of famous residents. Hop on the Beverly Hills Trolley Tour, or book ahead with Starline Tours or Star Track Tours to see notable homes in the ‘hood, along with other local landmarks packed into the city’s 5 square miles. Among the more storied and oft-filmed estates nestled in the hills is the 19th-century English Revivalstyle Greystone Mansion, whose graceful city-owned grounds are open for strolling. 22 SOCALPULSE.COM
RODEO DRIVE + GOLDEN TRIANGLE From Greystone, head west on Sunset Boulevard, then hang on to your wallet as you turn south onto Rodeo Drive. After passing through a tony residential neighborhood, you enter the shopping district known as the Golden Triangle, bounded by Santa Monica and Wilshire boulevards and Cañon Drive. Burberry, Balenciaga, Fendi and Gucci each recently debuted new or renovated flagships on Rodeo, reminding shoppers that 90210 is still the most prestigious ZIP code in the States.
Ascend the Italian-esque side street to fine-art destination Galerie Michael and Tiffany & Co., perched atop Two Rodeo. Pause for the quintessential Beverly Hills snapshot before continuing on to the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel (of Pretty Woman fame) at the south end of Rodeo Drive. Continuing west, pass Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and recently revamped Barneys New York, the reigning luxury retail titans along this stretch of Wilshire. At Santa Monica Boulevard, you hit the Beverly Hilton hotel, which rolls out
THE INDUSTRY + THE ARTS Beverly Hills isn’t all shopping sprees and gated estates: Talent agencies William Morris Endeavor and United Talent Agency are just two of the entertainment businesses based here. Rub shoulders with the powerlunchers at Thomas Keller’s Bouchon or Wolfgang Puck’s legendary Spago on Cañon, or grab dinner and hear live music at Mastro’s Steakhouse just up the street. The city’s cultural treasure troves include the Paley Center for Media and the Samuel Goldwyn Theater at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, both of which hold screenings. There is even more cultural programming at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, which transformed the historic Beverly Hills Post Office into an entertainment destination. CENTURY CITY Heading west from Beverly Hills on Santa Monica Boulevard, you enter the 0.7-square-mile
great find
A CHIP OFF THE AUCTION BLOCK Esteemed British auction house Christie’s has a new flagship in Beverly Hills: a two-story testament to L.A.’s thriving arts scene. The gallery facilitates private sales, hosts selling exhibitions and showcases auction highlights, such as items from the collection of Audrey Hepburn, on view Sept. 12-13 before they head to London for sale. 336 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.385.2600, christies.com/la
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: DALE BERMAN; COURTESY BEVERLY HILLS CONFERENCE AND VISITORS BUREAU; ADRIAN TIEMANS. OPPOSITE: MATT HARTMAN
30,000 square feet of red carpet annually to host the Golden Globe Awards.
NEW IN TOWN Jean-Georges Beverly Hills
Visit chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s namesake restaurant at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills for opulence and fine dining. 9850 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.860.6566
Reformation
Shop the L.A.-based clothing line’s sustainable styles and gorgeous dresses at Platform. 8810 Washington Blvd., Suite 102, Culver City, 855.756.0560
Vespertine
Chef Jordan Kahn’s mysterious, pricey “gastronomical experiment” is disrupting the L.A. culinary scene. 3599 Hayden Ave., Culver City, vespertine.la
Storefronts along North Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Opposite, clockwise from top left: Two Rodeo; a signpost at the intersection of luxury and commerce WHERE LOS ANGELES 23
/ WESTWOOD VILLAGE / CULVER CITY
Platform in Culver City
modern acropolis of Century City. ICM Partners and Creative Artists Agency are located here, as are a Fox Studios lot and countless legal, financial, entertainment and hospitality firms. But those outside the biz won’t be excluded. Past Avenue of the Stars, you hit the upscale Westfield Century City shopping center, which is near completion of a dramatic redevelopment. Nearby on Constellation Boulevard, epicures are drawn to Tom Colicchio’s Craft and Hinoki & the Bird, inside the towering residential complex the Century. (Candy Spelling claims the top two floors.) The Annenberg Space for Photography displays cutting-edge exhibits of digital and print photography.
UCLA A few miles northeast of Century City is the University of California, Los Angeles, one of the top public universities in the country. Visitors are welcome at several university attractions, including the Fowler Museum at UCLA and the outdoor Franklin D.
Murphy Sculpture Garden on the north campus, the planetarium on the south campus and the 7-acre Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Gardens. The free Hammer Museum is nearby and houses impressionist paintings, as well as cutting-edge contemporary exhibitions. Paid parking is available in UCLA lots and structures throughout the 419-acre campus.
WESTWOOD VILLAGE Just south of the campus, the pedestrian-friendly Westwood Village features independent shops and cafés among its Mediterranean Revival and art deco buildings, as well as two landmark movie theaters at Broxton and Weyburn avenues: the 1936 marquee-wrapped Bruin theater and the Fox theater across the street. Built circa 1931, the Fox is a favorite for movie premieres and thus is prime star-spotting territory. Another don’t-miss venue is the award-winning Geffen Playhouse, located on Le Conte Avenue in one of the oldest buildings in Westwood.
CULVER CITY Covering 5 square miles southeast of Westwood, Culver City boasts a thriving downtown with bars and restaurants including Korean-barbecue spot Hanjip and seasonal California restaurant the Wallace. The Kirk Douglas Theatre and the Ivy Substation, home to the Actors’ Gang, bookend the downtown area and stage live productions throughout the year. As you travel east on Washington Boulevard, don’t miss the Helms Bakery complex, which contains dozens of high-end furniture showrooms. Moving along Washington, the scene-y Arts District has more than 30 art galleries and exhibition spaces clustered along Washington and La Cienega boulevards. Near the intersection of Washington and National boulevards is the ultra-hip Platform lifestyle complex, plus a stop on the Expo Line, a Metro light rail that, thanks to a recent expansion, connects downtown L.A. and Santa Monica. Hollywood gets all the attention, but it’s Culver City whose city seal proclaims it “The Heart of Screenland.” In 1915, Ince/ Triangle Studios opened on Washington; in 1924, the site became Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios. Classics including Singin’ in the Rain and The Wizard of Oz would eventually be filmed on its movie lots. (News reports of the time indicate that the “Munchkins” partied hard during their stay at the Culver Hotel.) Today, Culver City’s screen culture is still going strong, and the site is home to Sony Pictures Studios, where such hits as Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! are taped. Experience Culver City’s screen heritage by taking the Sony Pictures Studio Tour.
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A massage at the Peninsula Spa
insider tips
HAVE A SPA DAY Beverly Hills offers the height of luxury, so why not further indulge at one of these posh spas? The Beverly Hills Hotel Spa 9641 Sunset Blvd., 310.887.2006 The Peninsula Spa 9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd., 310.975.2854 The Spa at Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel 9500 Wilshire Blvd., 310.385.7023 The Spa at Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills 300 S. Doheny Drive, 310.273.4444 Spa Montage 225 N. Cañon Drive, 310.860.7840 The Spa at Waldorf Astoria by La Prairie 9850 Wilshire Blvd., 800.774.1500 Tomoko Spa 141 S. Beverly Drive, 310.205.7300
FROM LEFT: BENNY CHAN; COURTESY THE PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS
UCLA
THE PERFECT BLEND THE NEW CENTURY CIT Y. IMAGINE WHERE IT WILL TAKE YOU.
BLOOMINGDALE’S | EVERYTHING BUT WATER | JO MALONE KATE SPADE NEW YORK | MACY’S | SEPHORA | TED BAKER westfield.com/centurycity
THIRD STREET + THE PIER
/ MAIN STREET + MONTANA AVENUE / THE ARTS / MALIBU
SANTA MONICA THE ARTS Visitors can take in plays at Main Street’s Edgemar Center for the Arts, housed in an angular concrete structure designed by Frank Gehry. An even wider variety of entertainment is at the Broad Stage, Santa Monica College’s first-rate, 499-seat performing-arts, film, dance and theater venue. On Michigan Avenue, the Bergamot Station arts center— now a stop on the Expo Line— has emerged as a hub for L.A.’s creative community. It’s home to about 30 galleries and a café. THIRD STREET + THE PIER Third Street Promenade, three pedestrian-only blocks on 3rd Street between Broadway and Wilshire Boulevard, perpetually teems with people. Visitors can hit dozens of boutiques, watch movies at two cinemas and gawk at the myriad street artists. If they don’t refuel at the many eateries along the Promenade, visitors can venture to the surrounding blocks to The Independence or the Misfit and enjoy drinks at The Bungalow or the many pubs, such as Ye Olde King’s Head, that hint at Santa Monica’s large population of British expats. Anchoring the promenade at Broadway is Santa Monica Place, a beautiful open-air shopping center with Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, 80 boutiques, ArcLight Cinemas and the toplevel Dining Deck. Steps away is the new western terminus of the Metro Expo Line, which connects Santa Monica by light rail to downtown Los Angeles. 26 SOCALPULSE.COM
Santa Monica Pier, built in 1909, is at the end of Colorado Avenue and features Pacific Park, a mini amusement park with food stands and rides, including a solar-powered, LED-lit Ferris wheel.
MAIN STREET + MONTANA AVENUE Compared with the hustle and bustle of Third Street Promenade, Montana Avenue is downright tranquil. Between 6th and 17th streets are plenty of fashionable boutiques and beauty destinations, including Moondance, Clare V. and Malin +
Goetz. Father’s Office is known for its burgers, and Sweet Lady Jane is famous for its cakes. Just minutes south of downtown Santa Monica, Main Street exudes a beachy, upscale vibe. The long stretch between Pico Boulevard and Rose Avenue contains a number of galleries, pubs, coffeehouses and restaurants, plus shops such as Lost & Found and Planet Blue. The California Heritage Museum is in a transplanted Victorian-era home, as is the aptly named Victorian, adjacent to the museum, which features a cool downstairs speakeasy, Basement Tavern.
MALIBU A few miles north of Santa Monica on Pacific Coast Highway is Malibu. Formerly known as Rancho Malibu, Malibu’s land was once so coveted that May K. Rindge, who took ownership of it in 1905 after the death of her scion husband, used armed guards to defend it from trespassers. In the 1920s, Rindge’s hefty legal bills, racked up from fighting developers, forced her to invite stars to live in Malibu Colony, and the legacy of Malibu as celebrityhome central continues today.
great find
PERFECT FIT Explore designer Sid Mashburn’s take on menswear essentials in his Brentwood Country Mart outpost: a locale as stylish and crisp as his clothing. The streamlined offering includes the brand’s full line, as well as classics and hard-to-find favorites from other labels. Worth noting: GQ has named Sid Mashburn America’s top men’s store. 225 26th St., Santa Monica, 310.319.1339, sidmashburn.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY SANTA MONICA PLACE; DALE BERMAN; COURTESY SID MASHBURN. OPPOSITE: BROWN CANNON III/INTERSECTION PHOTOS
In the 1800s, orator Tom Fitch called Santa Monica “the Zenith City by the Sunset Sea.” The 21st-century version of Santa Monica fulfills its early promise, with a bustling downtown and beach that attract millions of visitors per year. Pacific Coast Highway connects SaMo with draws such as Malibu and Marina del Rey.
NEW IN TOWN Malibu Burger Co.
This beachy burger joint offers healthy options (grass-fed beef, vegan patties), Kennebec french fries, milkshakes and more. 3874 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.317.0153
MTN
Chef Travis Lett (Gjelina/Gjusta) is behind this new Japanese izakaya, pronounced “mountain.” 1305 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, mtnvenice.com
Tallula’s
Enjoy fresh Mexican fare at this colorful new eatery from the Rustic Canyon restaurant family. 118 Entrada Drive, Santa Monica, 310.526.0027
Santa Monica State Beach. Opposite, clockwise from top left: Santa Monica Place’s Dining Deck; Abbot Kinney Boulevard WHERE LOS ANGELES 27
/ VENICE / BRENTWOOD / MARINA DEL REY
The Getty Villa
Many of Malibu’s best destinations are visible from PCH, including renowned restaurants with ocean views, from the casual (Malibu Seafood) to the upscale (Nobu Malibu). Adjacent to the Malibu Lagoon and Bird Sanctuary, the Adamson House is filled with historic tile. The celebrity-frequented Malibu Country Mart serves as the area’s town square. Together with the adjacent Malibu Village and Malibu Lumber Yard, there are plenty of shops and restaurants for whiling away an afternoon. Inland, nearing Calabasas, is wine country, where you can sample the local vino at tasting rooms such as Malibu Wines.
TOPANGA + PACIFIC PALISADES In the 1960s, hippies and musicians such as Neil Young hid out in idyllic Topanga, accessible by Topanga Canyon Boulevard from Pacific Coast Highway. Removed from urban activity, it retains its bohemian vibe and independently owned businesses. Hiking
trails allow visitors to bask in Topanga’s woodsy beauty, and restaurants such as Inn of the Seventh Ray accommodate creekside dining. There’s more than initially meets the eye in seemingly sleepy, family-friendly Pacific Palisades, south of Topanga on PCH and accessed from Temescal Canyon Road. Hikers love the shady trails in Temescal Gateway Park, and cafés and upscale mom-and-pop shops can be found between Via de la Paz and Monument Street near Sunset Boulevard. The Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine on Sunset is a 10-acre oasis with a lush garden and koi- and swan-filled lake. The crown jewel of the Palisades is the Getty Villa. Styled as a Julius Caesar-era villa, it’s filled with Greco-Roman antiquities.
VENICE Abbot Kinney won in a coin toss the land that would become Venice. He sought to develop it as an American version of the Italian city; the canals are still
there, lined with multimilliondollar bungalows. His namesake Abbot Kinney Boulevard is Venice’s coolest section, where Gjelina, Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea and boutiques such as Bazar, Heist and Huset are the main attractions. Rose Avenue is also coming up, thanks to the emergence of hot restaurants such as reborn Rose Café-Restaurant and Café Gratitude, plus a smattering of hip shops including Parachute and new Monrow. Visitors strolling Ocean Front Walk get an eyeful, what with performers, vendors and Muscle Beach bodybuilders.
BRENTWOOD Marilyn Monroe once called this affluent enclave northeast of Santa Monica home; it remains a favorite celebrity stomping ground. San Vicente Boulevard functions as the neighborhood’s main street, with copious independent shops, bakeries, cafés and restaurants. The petite Brentwood Country Mart, a charming open-air shopping center built in 1948, keeps retail offerings upscale. The area’s biggest draw is the Getty Center, the hilltop museum that boasts J. Paul Getty’s spectacular art collection and a beautiful central garden. MARINA DEL REY Marina del Rey’s main attraction is the marina, the largest man-made small-craft harbor in the world. Restaurants such as Cast & Plow and Cafe del Rey are positioned to take advantage of the views, and at the New England-style Fisherman’s Village, boat-rental and cruise companies such as Hornblower offer visitors assorted ways to get out on the water.
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Terrazza Lounge’s Tequila Honeysuckle cocktail
insider tips
SEASIDE SIPS These beachside bars and restaurants offer refreshing cocktails and unbeatable ocean views. Geoffrey’s Malibu 27400 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.457.1519 The Lobster 1602 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.458.9294 Malibu Farm Restaurant 23000 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.456.8850 Mastro’s Ocean Club 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.454.4357 Moonshadows 20356 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.456.3010 Nobu Malibu 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.9140 On the Waterfront Cafe 205 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, 310.392.0322 Terrazza Lounge Hotel Casa Del Mar, 1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica, 310.581.5533
FROM LEFT: COURTESY GETTY VILLA; COURTESY TERRAZZA LOUNGE
TOPANGA + PACIFIC PALISADES
A WORLD AWAY FROM THE ORDINARY, A BLOCK AWAY FROM THE BEACH
Basement Tavern
The Bike Shop
2640 Main Street 310 396 2469 basementtavern.com
2400 Main Street 310.581.8014 bikeshopsantamonica.com
Ashland Hill
Enterprise Fish Co.
2807 Main Street 310 392 3300 ashlandhill.com
174 Kinney Street 310 392 8366 enterprisefishco.com
The Happiest Hour on Main: join over 20 Main Street restaurants and bars for their featured Happy Hour deals up and down the street! 212 Pier Dolcenero Gelato Bike Shop Zumanity Bombshell Salon Circle Bar The Closet Trading Company Axiom Contemporary Ambiance Hair Studio Finn McCool’s KOKO One Life Natural Foods Accents Giant of Santa Monica 31Ten Dogtown Coffee Bareburger Mac 911 Bumble Bee Shoes Deluxe Nail Bar and Spa Groundwork Coffee Aaron Cleaners Angel City Books Amelia’s The Basement Anthony Schmitt Designs Beyond O2-Waterhouse Arts and Letters Ricks Tavern on Main Lost & Found Leon Max Miakel Bishay Salon Main Street Sunday Farmers Market LA Urban Fitness Natures Grooming & Boutique Pebbles Nails & Spa Duganne Ateliers Ashland Hill Crossfit Santa Monica Greens Up Hinterland OneWest Bank Santa Monica Beach Nail Spa T-Mobile Aussie Pie Kitchen Buffalo Exchange California Heritage Museum Bubble Beach Laundry Alchemie Spa Framm & Co. La Vecchia Cucina Max Muscle Hollywood Buster Shoe Repair Ben & Jerrys Hollywood Smoke Organic Nails & Spa Studio Brick + Mortar Bike Attack Electric Bryn Walker Eyes On Main hiptique Lorraine Colour Bar Bulletproof Coffee Edgemar Center for the Arts Clouds Art Luna Salon Chinois On Main Arts & Letters Urth Caffe Main Street Bagels Circuit Works Santa Monica Dove Hair Design Fleurs Du Jour Holy Guacamole Manchego Thai Vegan Kyle Mathis Salon Stansbury Collection The Famous Enterprise Fish Co SM The Victorian Trendy Sunglasses Main Attraction Nails & Spa Dhaba Cuisine of India Books and Cookies Lula Tim Clarke ZJ Boarding House 3 Twins Ice Cream Sea Shore Motel Pinkies Nail Spa Sunny Blue Novel Café Blossom Love Adorned Mindfulnest Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Peet’s Muji Oeste Sisters & Gifts Glassware The Galley Fedora Primo Samosa House The Birdcage Pink Elephant
mainstreetsm.com
La Vecchia Cucina 2654 Main Street 310 399 7979 lavecchiacucina.com
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SUNSET STRIP
/ SUNSET PLAZA / MELROSE AVENUE / WEST HOLLYWOOD DESIGN DISTRICT
WEST HOLLYWOOD
SUNSET STRIP After dark, this iconic strip of Sunset Boulevard between Doheny Drive and Crescent Heights Boulevard becomes one of the hottest stretches of asphalt in L.A. County. The club scene here rocks with legendary establishments like the Roxy, the Whisky a Go Go and the Viper Room, which have a long history of hosting performances by rock ‘n’ roll’s finest. Newer nightclubs include Rock & Reilly’s and 1 OAK. The Comedy Store continues to showcase leading names and emerging stars in stand-up, and restaurants such as Estrella and BOA Steakhouse offer upscale fare. During the day, boutiques such as beloved Book Soup draw traffic. Hotels are an integral part of the Sunset Strip scene. Chateau Marmont, a glorious and notorious celebrity hangout throughout the decades, remains a discreet local getaway. At the Sunset Tower Hotel, Bugsy Siegel’s former suite has been converted 30 SOCALPULSE.COM
into the Tower Bar. And across the street, the property once known as “Riot Hyatt,” thanks to overzealous guests like Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones and Guns N’ Roses, is now the chic Andaz West Hollywood.
SUNSET PLAZA Sunset Plaza, between La Cienega and San Vicente boulevards on Sunset Boulevard, is a collection of tony shops and bistros with an international flavor and free parking—a novelty in this neighborhood. This is the city’s Euro Zone, where you’re apt to hear more French and Italian
than Valley Girl. For up-to-theminute fashion, check out Wildfox, Nicole Miller, Zadig & Voltaire or either of the two H. Lorenzo shops. Pamper yourself with a facial at Ole Henriksen Face/Body Spa, a blowout at Drybar or a makeover at Blushington. Then, refuel at Obicà Mozzarella Bar.
MELROSE AVENUE Melrose Avenue has become virtually synonymous with trendiness, and new expressions in fashion, art and food continue to percolate up and down this street that has mul-
tiple personalities. One part of Melrose, east of Fairfax Avenue, has a mix of indie boutiques, cafés, tattoo parlors and vintage shops. Stores such as Wasteland have wild facades and vibrant signage that add energy to the scene. Farther west, Melrose becomes très sophistiqué, showcasing upscale tastes at Assembly, Kelly Wearstler and Vivienne Westwood. Just off Melrose is the fashionable three-block stretch of Melrose Place, where Bentleys line up at chic Nine Zero One salon and cutting-edge boutiques such as Irene Neuwirth, Isabel Marant and the Apartment by the Line.
WEST HOLLYWOOD DESIGN DISTRICT Melrose Avenue’s flourishing art, fashion and design district runs along the pedestrianfriendly retail corridors of Melrose and Beverly and Robertson boulevards. Among its offerings are a Helmut Lang flagship and RH: The Gallery on Melrose Avenue. The district’s hub is the Pacific Design Center complex—monolithic blue, green and red buildings designed by celebrated architect Cesar
great find
SCENTS OF STYLE Fragrance fans may not know the name Orris Perfumery, but they’ve likely spritzed on its nuanced creations. Now, all six of the L.A.-based, husband-and-wife-owned perfumery’s brands are sold in a new flagship store, where each scent—like Musc et Madame Ambrette Rose, pictured left—is handcrafted in small batches. 7970 ½ Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.556.6026, orrisperfumery.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: EDWIN SANTIAGO; COURTESY OLE HENRIKSEN; COURTESY ORRIS PERFUMERY. OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN
For a municipality measuring less than 2 square miles and with fewer than 35,000 residents, West Hollywood wields enormous influence over the L.A. lifestyle. With a number of world-class art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, nightclubs and theaters, it’s a frequent destination for locals and tourists alike.
NEW IN TOWN AllSaints
Shop edgy styles for both men and women at the British fashion house’s fifth L.A. boutique. 8585 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 310.499.0021
Rosaliné
Acclaimed chef Ricardo Zarate is back with a new restaurant— named after his mother —which introduces the “next phase of Peruvian dining.” 8479 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.297.9500
Vestry
This private whiskey lounge in the attic of Irish pub Tom Bergin’s stocks over 200 rare bourbons and ryes. 840 S. Fairfax Ave., L.A., vestryla.com
The Grove. Opposite, clockwise from top left: Robertson Boulevard; Ole Henriksen Face/Body Spa WHERE LOS ANGELES 31
/ ROBERTSON BOULEVARD / FAIRFAX + MID-WILSHIRE
The Petersen Automotive Museum
Pelli—which houses more than 130 showrooms catering to professional designers and luxury-home owners and contains a satellite of downtown’s Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and a stylish Wolfgang Puck eatery, Red Seven.
BEVERLY + WEST 3RD Beverly Boulevard and West 3rd Street, major east-west streets running through West Hollywood, are filled with restaurants, design showrooms and boutiques from some of the hottest up-and-coming clothing and accessories designers. The two streets bracket the landmark eight-level Beverly Center, which is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation. Bloomingdale’s, Fendi, Gucci and Jimmy Choo boutiques are among the center’s more than 160 establishments. On West 3rd Street east of Beverly Center, you’ll find favorite boutiques such as OK for design-oriented gifts, Pyrrha for handcrafted jewelry and Wittmore for contemporary
menswear. Great dining options include Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo’s seafood spot, Son of a Gun, and Vic Casanova’s cozy Italian restaurant Gusto. On Beverly Boulevard, you can shop for high-end home decor and accessories at Garde and fragrances at Eric Buterbaugh Florals.
ROBERTSON BOULEVARD Robertson Boulevard is no longer a paparazzi magnet, but it’s still home to shops that appeal to the modish set. Hit Chaser for vintage-inspired T-shirts; Reservoir for cool, under-the-radar brands; and Kitross for L.A.-inspired gifts. A cutting-edge Chanel concept store illustrates the difference between Robertson Boulevard and more staid Rodeo Drive. For a breather between boutique-hopping, consider a cocktail with crab cakes on the picket-fenced patio of Ivy restaurant, legendary for its celebrity clientele. Cecconi’s, just off Robertson, is also popular for power lunches.
FAIRFAX + MID-WILSHIRE L.A.’s Fairfax District and neighboring Mid-Wilshire are among the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in the Mid-City/West Hollywood area. At Fairfax Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard is the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), a renowned facility with more than 100,000 works dating from the ancient period to today. Adjacent to LACMA is the famous La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, where the ice age comes alive. Additional venues on this Museum Row include the newly renovated Petersen Automotive Museum and the Craft & Folk Art Museum. South of the museums is a neighborhood known as Little Ethiopia, where traditional restaurants are located. To the museums’ east is the burgeoning District La Brea, a walkable stretch filled with hot restaurants like Odys + Penelope and hip boutiques including American Rag Cie and A+R. One of the Fairfax District’s anchors is the Original Farmers Market, established in 1934, with more than 100 produce stalls, shops and eateries. There are spots to satisfy virtually any craving, including a wine bar, a taqueria and a stand with authentic Louisiana gumbo. Adjacent and connected by a vintage trolley is The Grove, an outdoor, pedestrian-only shopping center. The Grove has the character of an old-fashioned village square, with stained-glass streetlamps and a central fountain. Nordstrom, a movie theater and stores such as American Girl Place, Apple, Paige and the first-ever Elizabeth and James boutique are joined by myriad restaurants including Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill.
WFOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGES 76-77. 32 SOCALPULSE.COM
Casa Perfect
insider tips
DESIGN TIME Shop in style at these design depots in and around West Hollywood. A+R 171 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.692.0086 Arteriors 8620 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 424.249.6855 Casa Perfect thefutureperfect.com/ los_angeles, 323.202.2025 Consort 6918 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.930.5688 Heath Ceramics 7525 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.965.0800 Lawson-Fenning 6824 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.934.0048 L’Eclaireur 450 N. Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.360.0262 Pacific Design Center 8687 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 310.360.6494 RH Modern 8772 Beverly Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.281.1326
FROM LEFT: MATT HARTMAN; LAUREN COLEMAN
BEVERLY + WEST 3RD
Time-tested for 83 years and counting. Since 1934, The Original Farmers Market has been L . A .’s favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. This living time capsule of Los Angeles history and culture is home to over 100 artisan grocers, eclectic shops and world-class eateries. No wonder it endures as one of L.A.’s favorite places to grab a bite, find the perfect souvenir and make a memory. Open daily.
6333 W. THIRD ST. • LOS ANGELES 323.933.9211 • FARMERSMARKETLA.COM #FARMERSMARKETLA Insta
HOLLYWOOD + HIGHLAND
/ SHOWTIME / WALK OF FAME / MUSEUMS, HOLLYWOOD-STYLE / AROUND VINE
HOLLYWOOD “Hollywood is a state of mind” was a popular refrain when this legendary area of Los Angeles experienced a decline not long ago. But with hot new boutiques, restaurants, hotels and condos sprouting up, it has re-emerged as a bona fide destination, where throngs of international visitors mingle with colorful locals.
HOLLYWOOD + HIGHLAND Hollywood & Highland has been a catalyst for the rebirth of Hollywood Boulevard. Its Dolby Theatre is the home of the annual Academy Awards, and the central Babylon Court frames views of the iconic Hollywood sign (built in 1923 to advertise a housing development, the 45-foot-high letters originally read “Hollywoodland”). Other draws include Ohm nightclub, dining spots and shops such as Sweet! candy store and Louis Vuitton. Next door to Hollywood & Highland is the TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre), famous for its celebrity hand- and footprints embedded in the concrete out front. SHOWTIME Just across the street from Hollywood & Highland is the ornate, lavishly illuminated El Capitan Theatre. Masterfully restored by Disney, it offers special presentations of the 34 SOCALPULSE.COM
studio’s releases, combined with performances using an antique Wurlitzer pipe organ and children-pleasing stage shows. Jimmy Kimmel Live! tapes in an ABC studio next door. The Egyptian Theatre— built in 1922 around the time that King Tut’s tomb was discovered—screens eclectic artsy and classic fare. The landmark Pantages Theatre regularly stages megahit musicals (such as The Book of Mormon and highly anticipated Hamilton), and the Hollywood Palladium has a rich history of showcasing top-notch musicians.
WALK OF FAME The sidewalks along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard (La Brea Avenue to Gower Street) and three blocks of Vine Street (Yucca Street to Sunset Boulevard) are inlaid with the legendary brass-and-terrazzo stars honoring celebrities from the entertainment industry. More than 2,400 stars are enshrined beneath tourists’ feet, but the roster is not without its quirks— Pee-wee Herman has a star, but Clint Eastwood doesn’t. Marilyn Monroe’s star is steps from Hollywood & Highland, and John Lennon’s is in front of
MUSEUMS, HOLLYWOOD-STYLE Hollywood has museums, but don’t expect to encounter Picasso or Monet. Next to TCL Chinese Theatre is Madame Tussauds Hollywood, filled with more than 100 wax figures ranging from legends like Clark Gable to contemporary stars including Taylor Swift and Jason Derulo. You can ponder zany accomplishments at the Guinness World Record Museum, while the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium offers bizarre exhibitions. Movie buffs head to the Hollywood Museum in the historic Max Factor Building, which displays 10,000 artifacts showcasing 100 years of showbiz history, including Indiana Jones’ whip and the honeymoon dress worn by Marilyn Monroe after she married Joe DiMaggio. AROUND VINE The storied intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, the epicenter of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, boasted a large
great find
SILVER LAKE CHIC Laura and Jason O’Dell channel California cool at The ODells Shop, a destination for men’s and women’s clothing (including their easy, colorful namesake line), jewelry, decor and more with a vintage-inspired, but distinctly modern, look. Don’t miss the yurt in the backyard (pictured left), which hosts exhibitions and pop-ups. 3906 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.741.0039, theodellsshop.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: EDWIN SANTIAGO; MATT HARTMAN; JASON O’DELL. OPPOSITE: EDWIN SANTIAGO
the Capitol Records Building, the landmark structure designed to resemble a stack of records.
NEW IN TOWN The Highlight Room
Tao Group’s new dining and nightlife concept at Dream Hollywood boasts a rooftop lounge, a pool, a grill and views of the Hollywood sign and L.A. skyline. 6417 Selma Ave., L.A., 323.844.6417
Tintorera
Dine on seafoodcentric Mexican fare at this pretty Silver Lake restaurant from chef Maycoll Calderón. 2815 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.741.0055.
Vinovore
Located next to her fried-rice spot, Hot Hot Food, Coly Den Haan’s new Silver Lake wine shop stocks wines from around the world, with a focus on female wine producers. 616 N. Hoover St., L.A., vino-vore.com
Hollywood Pantages Theatre. Opposite, clockwise from top left: Hollywood & Highland; an exhibit at the Hollywood Museum
/ LOS FELIZ + SILVER LAKE / GRIFFITH PARK
The Autry Museum of the American West in Griffith Park
concentration of entertainmentindustry companies in the 1920s. It’s a different Hollywood today, but the magic of this location endures in the soaring W Hollywood Hotel & Residences and its Delphine brasserie. A Metro station is integrated into the hotel; Hollywood is particularly well served by mass transit. Across the street is boutique hotel the Redbury and its stylish Middle Eastern restaurant, Cleo, and bar, the Library. Sunset Boulevard and Vine is in transition, but dance clubs and eateries give this corner plenty of character. Serious cinephiles catch their flicks at ArcLight Cinemas, where it’s easy to spot a celeb. Close by is Amoeba Music, where music fans and collectors browse the aisles through 31,000 square feet of space packed with rare vinyl records, CDs and memorabilia. A couple of blocks west is the stylish minicomplex Space 15 Twenty, catering to shoppers well into the evening. The center is anchored by a supersize Urban Outfitters and complemented by cool boutiques.
NIGHT CRAWLING The revival of Hollywood has only enhanced its nightlife, and a lively bar-and-club scene permeates the district. On and around Hollywood Boulevard, you can party under the guise of literary advancement at library-themed the Study Hollywood, drink and dine at Houston Hospitality hot spot No Vacancy, and attempt to get past the velvet ropes at nightclubs like Playhouse and Project Club LA. Cahuenga Boulevard also is home to dozens of clubs and eateries, including chef Brendan Collins’ excellent Birch. Quintessentially L.A. but a galaxy removed from Hollywood Boulevard is the Hollywood Bowl, the largest outdoor amphitheater in the U.S., where the Los Angeles Philharmonic takes up residence from June to September. Picnicking under the stars here is among the most memorable experiences in L.A. LOS FELIZ + SILVER LAKE These neighborhoods are among the hippest in the county (and perhaps the country). Vermont Avenue, the main drag in Los
Feliz, presents a collection of shops and restaurants that range from bohemian to chic. Skylight Books and 24/7 diner Fred 62 are popular hangouts. Lounges such as Rockwell represent the neighborhood’s increasing sophistication. Nearby, a stretch of Hollywood Boulevard houses cult-favorite gift shop/gallery Soap Plant/Wacko and Bar Covell, and Barnsdall Art Park offers recreational opportunities including tours of Frank Lloyd Wright’s recently restored Hollyhock House. At Sunset Junction, where Sunset and Santa Monica boulevards intersect, Los Feliz transitions into Silver Lake. Foodies hang at casual Forage or the Cheese Store of Silverlake, while aspiring screenwriters hammer at their laptops and sip lattes at Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea. Farther east on Sunset Boulevard, cool beach gear at Mollusk Surf Shop and chic handbags at the Clare V. flagship beckon.
GRIFFITH PARK Among the largest urban parks in America, Griffith Park is an ideal place to hike, take a train ride, picnic, golf and more. The Charlie Turner Trailhead begins at Griffith Observatory, one of the great planetariums in the world and a frequent film location. The hike up Mount Hollywood provides views of the Hollywood sign, and the Greek Theatre, a 5,700-seat amphitheater, is a legendary music venue. Also here are the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens and the Western-heritageoriented Autry Museum of the American West, both accessible from the Ventura (SR 134) or Golden State (I-5) freeways.
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Bottle service at Liaison
insider tips
AFTER DARK From intimate bars to thumping clubs, Hollywood’s hot nightlife venues keep it cool. Avenue 1601 Cahuenga Blvd., 323.593.7999 Black Rabbit Rose 1719 N. Hudson Ave., 323.461.1464 Boulevard3 6523 Sunset Blvd., 323.466.2144 Good Times at Davey Wayne’s 1611 N. El Centro Ave., 323.962.3804 La Descarga 1159 N. Western Ave., 323.466.1324 Liaison 1638 N. Las Palmas Ave., 310.984.6666 The Sayers Club 1645 Wilcox Ave., 323.871.8233 Spare Room Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, 7000 Hollywood Blvd., 323.769.7296
FROM LEFT: COURTESY THE AUTRY; COURTESY LIAISON RESTAURANT + LOUNGE
NIGHT CRAWLING
HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s17) ©2017 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 16-ADV-20403
UNION STATION
/ GRAND AVENUE / BUNKER HILL / OLVERA STREET / HISTORIC DISTRICTS
DOWNTOWN With new restaurants and shops opening daily, downtown Los Angeles could not be hotter. Historic art deco structures share the streetscape with glass-clad towers, and even movie stars are snapping up lofts in century-old buildings. The arts scene roars to life here, where the laid-back image of L.A. hardly applies.
UNION STATION Union Station was the last of the grand railroad terminals built in the U.S. Its importance faded as the automobile began to dominate life in L.A., but the 77-yearold station has staged a comeback, thanks to a renovation and downtown’s new energy. From the station—the hub of the Metro system—you can board the Red Line to Hollywood and the San Fernando Valley or connect to the Blue Line to Long Beach or the Expo Line to Santa Monica. The Gold Line runs to Pasadena. Nonstop bus service to LAX is available 24/7. Metrolink commuter trains connect distant suburbs, and Amtrak trains offer coastal journeys. GRAND AVENUE The heart of L.A.’s performingarts scene and the site of its most dramatic architecture, Grand Avenue is beginning to live up to its name. On Bunker Hill, once filled with Victorian mansions, four venues make up a 38 SOCALPULSE.COM
formidable collection of stages at the Music Center. The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is home to L.A. Opera, and the Ahmanson Theatre and the Mark Taper Forum host theatrical productions. The flashiest venue is architect Frank Gehry’s lauded Walt Disney Concert Hall, winter home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, led by its vivacious music director, Gustavo Dudamel. Also housed at Disney Hall is REDCAT, which offers visual, performing and multimedia arts programming. After a show, take a stroll through the 12-acre Grand Park,
between Grand Avenue and Hill Street and 1st and Temple streets.
BUNKER HILL Steps from the Ahmanson is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, designed by Spanish architect José Rafael Moneo. A short walk south on Grand is the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), and across from it is The Broad museum, built by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad. Both sites house premier collections of contemporary art. The Omni Hotel and California Plaza are adjacent to MOCA;
OLVERA STREET The origin of the city of Los Angeles, dating back to 1781, is El Pueblo de Los Angeles, a collection of 27 buildings along festive pedestrian concourse Olvera Street. The city’s oldest building, Avila Adobe (circa 1818), is here, along with Mexican restaurants, mariachi bands and merchants offering arts and crafts. A few blocks away is the city’s oldest restaurant, Philippe the Original (1908), where a cup of joe is just 49 cents. HISTORIC DISTRICTS Undergoing a renaissance is the Broadway Theatre District, home to once-opulent movie palaces. Several, such as the United Artists theater (now the
great find
FINE PRINTS Founded by sisters Hopie and Lily Stockman, Block Shop brings India’s textile culture to L.A. with its woodblock-printed products, created in cooperation with a family of printers and dyers in Bagru, Rajasthan. Email hello@blockshoptextiles.com to visit Block Shop’s studio and shop for framed prints, rugs, linens and more. 453 S. Spring St., Suite 1118, downtown, blockshoptextiles.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: IWAN BAAN; DALE BERMAN; COURTESY BLOCK SHOP. OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN
nearby Angels Knoll is a welcome patch of greenery. Angels Flight, a vintage funicular (seen in La La Land) that climbs to California Plaza from Hill Street below, is due to reopen by Labor Day. At the foot of the hill, the Bunker Hill Steps rise five stories at the U.S. Bank Tower, and across the street is the art deco-style Central Library.
NEW IN TOWN 3.1 Phillip Lim
The celebrated designer known for his chic-yet-effortless designs has relocated his L.A. flagship from Robertson to the Arts District. 734 E. 3rd St., downtown, 213.246.2588
Rossoblu
Sotto chef Steve Samson’s personal new project is dishing up Bologna-inspired Italian cuisine in the City Market South complex. 1124 San Julian St., downtown, 213.749.1099
Sari Sari Store
RĂŠpublique pastry chef and James Beard Award nominee Margarita Manzke is behind this new Filipinofood stall at Grand Central Market. 317 S. Broadway, downtown, 323.320.4020
Grand Park. Opposite, clockwise from top left: The Broad museum; Mark Taper Forum at the Music Center
/ CHINATOWN / LITTLE TOKYO / L.A. LIVE / EXPOSITION PARK the sleek Japanese American National Museum. The Geffen Contemporary, a branch of MOCA, is next door. At 2nd and Main streets is the former St. Vibiana cathedral, now home to stylish Redbird restaurant. To Little Tokyo’s east is the Arts District, which boasts buzzy shops and markets; galleries including Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles; a bevy of craft breweries; and such lauded restaurants as The Factory Kitchen, Officine Brera and Bestia.
Row DTLA lifestyle complex, near the Arts District
stylish Theatre at Ace Hotel), have been revived or restored to their original grandeur. Cool shops such as Acne Studios and BNKR lend cachet to the area. The Bradbury Building, constructed in 1893 in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, was featured in the film Blade Runner. Spring Street from 4th to 7th streets is a rapidly awakening area once referred to as the “Wall Street of the West.” Steps from this historic district is a row of trendy bars on 6th Street (between Main and Los Angeles streets) that includes the Varnish.
SHOPPING DISTRICTS Downtown’s heritage as a mercantile center is still evident in its historic shopping districts. The Jewelry District draws shoppers looking for deals on diamonds; in the neighboring Fashion District, you can find designer clothing items. At Santee Alley, an open-air bargain bazaar, designer trends breed low-priced knockoffs. The Flower District offers blooms at wholesale prices. For an
awesome mix of old-school produce vendors and lunch counters and new, upscale specialty stalls, Grand Central Market, near the foot of Angels Flight, is the place to go. And the FIGat7th shopping center is home to trendy boutiques and eateries.
CHINATOWN Chinatown is a great destination for sampling dim sum, dining at new foodie-favorite spots like Howlin’ Ray’s and Baohaus or browsing for clothing, tea or home goods. Cultural highlights include the ornate Thien Hau Temple. Pedestrianfriendly Chung King Road and Gin Ling Way are home to hip galleries; Broadway is lined with boutiques. Dodger Stadium is a short drive away, as is San Antonio Winery, which offers tours and tastings. LITTLE TOKYO Little Tokyo’s bar scene is popping, and dining options range from traditional sushi at Japanese Village Plaza to seasonal small plates at Baldoria. Just a few steps down 1st Street is
L.A. LIVE The $2.5 billion L.A. Live project is home to Staples Center, as well as the Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers and Kings, and it hosts top pop acts, as does Microsoft Theater, which boasts state-ofthe-art acoustics. The Grammy Museum honors myriad music genres with videos, artifacts and interactive exhibits. A dozen restaurants and nightlife venues—WP24, new Cleo and Lucky Strike Lanes, to name a few—face a massive urban plaza lined with LED screens. The Los Angeles Convention Center, encompassing 16-plus acres of exhibition space, is also here. EXPOSITION PARK Just south of downtown is Exposition Park, whose grounds hold major museums and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, temporary home of the L.A. Rams. The California African American Museum delves into black history, and the beauxarts-style Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers insight into prehistoric giants. The California Science Center has a 3-D Imax theater and exhibits the retired NASA space shuttle Endeavour.
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Beta Main
insider tips
LET’S LEARN You know MOCA and the Broad, but DTLA’s also home to many great under-the-radar museums. A+D Museum 900 E. 4th St., downtown, 213.346.9734 The African American Firefighter Museum 1401 S. Central Ave., downtown, 213.744.1730 Beta Main 114 W. 4th St., downtown, 213.986.8500 FIDM Museum & Galleries 919 S. Grand Ave., Suite 250, downtown, 213.623.5821 Heritage Square Museum 3800 Homer St., L.A., 323.225.2700 Italian American Museum 644 N. Main St., downtown, 213.485.8432 USC Fisher Museum of Art 823 Exposition Blvd., L.A., 213.740.4561 Velveteria 711 New High St., downtown, 626.714.8545
FROM LEFT: KATIE GIBBS; ELON SCHOENHOLZ
SHOPPING DISTRICTS
L.A. STYLE OUTLET SAVINGS
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OLD PASADENA
/ PLAYHOUSE DISTRICT + SOUTH LAKE AVENUE / SAN MARINO + SAN GABRIEL VALLEY
PASADENA the Commons and Burlington Arcade. A drive south on Lake Avenue through one of the city’s most opulent residential neighborhoods leads to the Langham Huntington. Consider this grand, historic hotel for high tea, Japanese Kobe beef at its Royce steakhouse or pampering at its award-winning Chuan Spa.
OLD PASADENA A tribute to foresighted urban planning is the 22-square-block shopping district known as Old Pasadena, roughly bounded by Walnut and Green streets, Arroyo Parkway and Pasadena Avenue. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s a collection of restored buildings filled with trendy boutiques, bistros and nightclubs. Merchants range from Tesla Motors to H&M, and eateries include Union, a top-rated Italian restaurant. Pedestrian-only alleys meander through the One Colorado project in the heart of Old Pasadena, where restaurants offer alfresco dining overlooking a sculpture-strewn square. Boutiques such as Vince and Cop. Copine draw shoppers, while iPic Theaters reimagines the moviegoing experience with state-of-the-art technology, plush seats and a bar/café. Nearby is the Norton Simon Museum, home to one of the finest art collections in the 42 SOCALPULSE.COM
West. The galleries are filled with works dating from the Renaissance to the 20th century, and the museum’s repertoire of impressionist masters (e.g., Monet, Cézanne, Van Gogh) is formidable. A sculpture garden features a major tribute to Degas. East of Old Pasadena is Paseo Colorado, a shopping center with an ArcLight movie theater, restaurants and shops lining garden promenades. Its open-air design frames views of Pasadena City Hall, a majestic landmark restored to its original beaux-arts grandeur.
PLAYHOUSE DISTRICT + SOUTH LAKE AVENUE Anchored by the Mission-style Pasadena Playhouse, this district offers art-house cinema, antique shops and bookstores, as well as the famed Ice House Comedy Club, whose stage has hosted George Carlin and Jerry Seinfeld. Other cultural attractions include the Boston Court Performing Arts Center and the Pasadena Museum of California Art. East of the Playhouse District, South Lake Avenue provides a vibrant shopping environment. Inviting boutiques are set around European-style courtyards at
SAN MARINO + SAN GABRIEL VALLEY South of the Langham is San Marino and its primary attraction, The Huntington, whose library, art collections, botanical gardens and new education and visitor center occupy one of the most remarkable pieces of real estate in Southern California. Here, the Italianate mansion of railroad magnate Henry Huntington houses an extraordinary collection of 18th- and 19th-century art. A library with nearly 9 million rare books, photographs and manuscripts occupies another structure. Throughout the 200-acre property are more than a dozen distinct botanical environments, the Helen and Peter Bing Children’s Garden and a formal rose garden boasting more than 1,200 rose varieties.
great find
FOWL PLAY The 127-acre Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden has much more to offer guests than just the pretty plumage of the peacocks that roam its grounds (pictured left). Explore gardens with collections of rare and endangered plants and historic structures including the ornate Queen Anne Cottage, built in 1885. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, 626.821.3222, arboretum.org
TOP LEFT: DALE BERMAN; BOTTOM, COURTESY L.A. COUNTY ARBORETUM & BOTANIC GARDEN. OPPOSITE, FROM LEFT: DALE BERMAN; COURTESY BACARI GDL
Minutes from downtown L.A. via the Arroyo Seco Parkway (Pasadena Freeway) or the Metro Gold Line commuter train is Pasadena. Its architectural pedigree is world-class, and renowned institutions including the Tournament of Roses and Caltech lend it cachet. The city’s diverse neighbors are also worth discovering.
/ SOUTH PASADENA / EAGLE ROCK + GLENDALE
Pasadena’s Colorado Bridge. Opposite, clockwise from top left: Pasadena City Hall; Huntington Gardens
Sharing Pasadena’s eastern border are the communities of Sierra Madre and Arcadia, home to Santa Anita Park, a storied thoroughbred-horse-racing venue. Arcadia is also home to the 127-acre Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden, whose natural Southern California habitat is famous for its wild peacocks. Farther east, scattered along the San Bernardino Freeway (I-10), are the communities of San Gabriel, Temple City, Monterey Park and Alhambra, which have attracted large numbers of Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants. This means the opportunity for enjoying Asian cuisine is virtually unrivaled in Southern California. Tourists passionate about history, architecture or faith can explore the 1771 San Gabriel Mission, and the rugged San Gabriel Mountains present hiking opportunities for nature lovers.
SOUTH PASADENA The scenic route to South Pasadena on Orange Grove Boulevard passes through a stretch once known as Millionaire’s Row. Some splendid homes remain, including the former Wrigley Mansion (Tournament House), which now houses the Tournament of Roses Association. North of Old Pasadena, the boulevard leads to the Gamble House. This, the most famous achievement of architects Greene and Greene, is a classic representation of the Arts and Crafts movement that left its imprint on Pasadena. South Pasadena is a tranquil community whose Craftsman homes range from bungalows to mansions, and its Mission West Historic District is lined with antique shops, art galleries, casual cafés and kid-friendly spots like Fair Oaks Pharmacy, a restored drugstore from 1915.
EAGLE ROCK + GLENDALE West of Pasadena is Eagle Rock, a quiet college town reinventing itself as a trendy L.A. neighborhood. Its main drag of Colorado Boulevard is lined with a diverse collection of restaurants including Casa Bianca, a venerable old-school pizza joint. In Eagle Rock, students from highly ranked Occidental College— where a young Barack Obama once studied—mingle with young couples who are snapping up hillside real estate. On the far side of Eagle Rock is Glendale, the third-largest city in Los Angeles County. There, office workers pour out of highrises for happy hour at The Americana at Brand, an open-air shopping, residential and entertainment development. Stylesavvy shoppers can browse in boutiques, catch a movie or recharge at the Americana’s restaurants, which include the Philippe Starck-designed Katsuya and celebrity chef Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak. Home to a large Armenian community, Glendale offers a wealth of ethnic eateries specializing in kebabs, shawarma and belly dancing. Marked by a towering neon obelisk is the Alex Theatre, a restored art deco masterpiece that hosts concerts and musicals. Steps from the Alex is the new Museum of Neon Art, dedicated to showcasing a quintessentially L.A. craft. North of Glendale is Montrose, whose main street of Honolulu Avenue is more Mayberry than L.A. Close by, in La Cañada Flintridge, is sprawling Descanso Gardens, with North America’s largest camellia collection—an awesome sight when in full bloom during January and February.
Bacari GDL’s Chocolate Chillini
insider tips
EAT, SIP, SHOP With all these spots to eat by the Americana at Brand, Glendale is a new dining destination. Bacari GDL 757 Americana Way, 818.696.1460 Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina 237 S. Brand Blvd., 818.839.4130 Din Tai Fung 177 Caruso Ave., 818.551.5561 Eggslut 252 S. Brand Blvd., Suite D, 818.484.5911 The Halal Guys 201 N. Brand Blvd., Suite 110, 818.546.1926 Mainland Poke Shop 252 S. Brand Blvd., Suite C, 818.291.9350 Shake Shack 252 S. Brand Blvd., 818.858.1612 The Tsujita 769 Americana Way, 818.553.3822
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UNIVERSAL CITY
/ BURBANK / NORTH HOLLYWOOD / VENTURA BOULEVARD / DEEP IN THE VALLEY
THE VALLEY
UNIVERSAL CITY A couple of Metro stops north of the heart of Hollywood is Universal City, a major entertainment-industry outpost. The highlight is Universal Studios Hollywood, which offers a behind-the-scenes peek into moviemaking, plus a theme park with high-tech virtual-reality action rides. The new Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction is all the buzz; also thrilling are the Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem attraction and the Simpsons Ride and its adjacent Springfield-themed “world.” Splurge for Universal’s VIP Experience, which pampers its guests with such perks as private tour guides, exclusive backlot access and unlimited front-of-line access in the theme park. Among the wide-ranging attractions next door at pedestrian-only Universal CityWalk are skydiving simulations at iFly Hollywood and mechanical bull riding at Saddle Ranch Chop House. Restaurants include 44 SOCALPULSE.COM
new Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Dongpo Kitchen, chef Ludo Lefebvre’s LudoBird and Voodoo Doughnut.
BURBANK Burbank calls itself the “media capital of the world”—and with good reason. The city is home to some of the most famous players in the entertainment business, including Walt Disney Studios, Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon Animation Studio. Get a taste of the action on a Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood or as part of the studio audience at a taping of one
of your favorite programs, such as The Ellen DeGeneres Show. The media district, which encompasses most of these companies, also boasts some newer cafés and dining destinations, including Coffee Commissary and Simmzy’s, as well as the iconic Bob’s Big Boy, which hosts a classic-car show every Friday. Burbank’s entertainment industry is hardly the city’s only draw. More than 160 restaurants and shops cater to locals and visitors alike. The downtown district offers a major-mall shopping experience, movie theaters and the country’s largest Ikea,
but surrounding streets, such as historic San Fernando Boulevard, have a more homegrown feel, with shops and trendy bistros such as Granville Cafe. Another must-visit district is hip Magnolia Park, centered at Magnolia Boulevard and Hollywood Way, which offers indie cafés, antique shops and the area’s best retro and vintage boutiques (Playclothes and Pinup Girl are favorites). Always-packed Porto’s Bakery offers excellent pastries and sandwiches from Europe and the owners’ native Cuba. Do you like the outdoors? Burbank is a gateway to the Verdugo Mountains, which are crisscrossed with hiking trails. A workout here is rewarded with spectacular views of Burbank, the Hollywood Hills and downtown L.A. For golf enthusiasts, DeBell Golf Club features regulation 18-hole and par-3 courses. And during the summer, outdoor amphitheater the Starlight Bowl hosts a music series. If you’re jetting into or out of L.A., you can escape the hassles of LAX by opting for uncongested Hollywood Burbank Airport. It offers nonstop flights to many cities across the country and
great find
SU(SHH!)I Chef Phillip Frankland Lee’s drinks-and-bites gem Woodley Proper has a secret: Hidden behind a chalk-wall waitlist is an omakase speakeasy called Sushi|Bar. Wednesday through Sunday, three times per night at eight counter seats, guests can enjoy 16 playful courses that might include fresh scallop (pictured left) and yellowtail brushed with sweet-corn pudding. (See Insider Tips, opposite.)
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: DALE BERMAN (2); JAKOB LAYMAN. OPPOSITE, FROM LEFT: DALE BERMAN; COURTESY SOCA
The Valley is a sprawling collection of communities, each with its own attractions and charms. Immortalized in movies as diverse as Chinatown and Valley Girl, the area derives its name from Mission San Fernando Rey de España, the historic landmark on the Valley’s northernmost edge.
Hogwarts Castle at Universal Studios Hollywood. Opposite, clockwise from top left: Universal CityWalk; Idle Hour in North Hollywood
is centrally located, with easy access to Hollywood, downtown L.A. and the San Gabriel Valley.
NORTH HOLLYWOOD North Hollywood wasn’t much of a tourist destination until the community transformed its commercial core into the NoHo Arts District, now filled with nearly two dozen professional theaters, including the landmark El Portal Theatre. These venues present some of the most innovative stage performances in L.A., and neighboring dance studios and art galleries contribute to the scene. With restaurants like the Federal Bar, a lively gastropub, and Idle Hour, a bar in a barrel-shaped, refurbished landmark building from the 1940s, the momentum continues for this transit-linked urban village. From NoHo’s Metro station, you can access central Holly-
wood and downtown via the Red Line subway or board the Orange Line, a sleek express bus that traverses the entire San Fernando Valley.
VENTURA BOULEVARD This iconic, palm-lined boulevard stretches 20 miles across the San Fernando Valley. Immortalized in music by Frank Zappa and Tom Petty, the boulevard is an integral part of L.A. culture and home to a burgeoning dining scene. In Studio City, it’s lined with eateries, including entertainment-industry-favored Art’s Deli, newer favorite the Bellwether and a greater concentration of acclaimed sushi bars (such as Asanebo) than Little Tokyo claims. For shopping, there are charming boutiques and beauty retreats such as Face Haus facial bar. Hip bars and restaurants including Firefly have helped to launch a nightlife scene.
Farther west, as the boulevard winds its way through Sherman Oaks, you’ll encounter laid-back trattorias and bistros, as well as shops such as Abundance, a boutique showcasing plus-size designer fashions. Sherman Oaks is also home to Westfield Fashion Square, anchored by Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s and featuring upscale boutiques. Sherman Oaks Galleria is near the junction of the 405 and 101 freeways; draws include ArcLight Cinemas, where there’s a chance you’ll see famous faces drawn to the Valley by its family-oriented lifestyle.
DEEP IN THE VALLEY Westfield Topanga shopping center is loaded with exclusive designer boutiques, including Louis Vuitton and David Yurman. The Village lifestyle destination opened last fall, expanding the center’s retail and dining options. Farther west off the Ventura Freeway (U.S. 101) is Calabasas, where celebrities move for more elbow room. Upscale shopping and casual eateries live at the Commons at Calabasas, an elegant open-air destination. A few exits beyond that is Westlake Village, where locals hit the luxurious spa or do lunch at the Four Seasons. Visitors to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in neighboring Simi Valley can step aboard an actual Air Force One, visit a full-size replica of the White House Oval Office and learn all about America’s 40th president. North on the Golden State Freeway (I-5) in Valencia, coaster lovers gather at Six Flags Magic Mountain for rides too wild for Disneyland.
Soca’s Southeast Asian steak salad
insider tips
GOURMET GEMS The Valley’s dining renaissance is evident at these restaurants along Ventura Boulevard. Asanebo 11941 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.760.3348 Augustine Wine Bar 13456 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818.990.0938 Barrel & Ashes 11801 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.623.8883 The Bellwether 13251 Ventura Blvd., Suite A, Studio City, 818.285.8184 Firefly 11720 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.762.1833 Soca 14015 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818.301.4300 Sushi Katsu-ya 11680 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.985.6976 Woodley Proper 16101 Ventura Blvd., Suite 242, Encino, 818.906.9775
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MANHATTAN BEACH
/ HERMOSA BEACH / REDONDO BEACH
SOUTH BAY the specialty shops and eateries that line Pier Avenue. Farther east, Becker’s carries surfboards and beachwear.
MANHATTAN BEACH Nineteen miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach boasts 2 miles of beaches with sand so fine that developers exported it to Waikiki Beach in the 1920s. Laid-back Manhattan Beach is home to many professional athletes: You might spot an L.A. Kings player as you walk along the Strand, the pedestrian promenade sandwiched between multimillion-dollar homes and the beachfront bike trail. At the end of the city’s picturesque pier, the Roundhouse Aquarium delights with touch tanks. The pier features plaques commemorating winners of the Manhattan Beach Open—the South Bay is die-hard beach-volleyball country. It’s also a playground for water-sports enthusiasts, including bodyboarders and surfers. East of the pier along Manhattan Beach Boulevard and Manhattan Avenue are chic boutiques and a burgeoning dining scene, with restaurants 46 SOCALPULSE.COM
such as Fishing With Dynamite, Love & Salt, Little Sister and The Strand House drawing gourmets from across L.A. The Metlox center is a popular gathering place, with shops such as the Beehive and hot spots including Zinc at Shade hotel.
HERMOSA BEACH Head south on Manhattan Avenue to Pier Avenue, the heart of Hermosa Beach. Hermosa shares many characteristics with Manhattan Beach, including its own scenic 2-mile stretch of beachfront punctuated by volleyball nets, fitness buffs
weaving along the Strand (here merged with the bike path) and a pier studded with bronze plaques commemorating surfing legends. Come late afternoon, the pedestrian plaza at the foot of the pier becomes a different kind of South Bay scene, thanks to spillover from bars and restaurants such as Hennessey’s Tavern and Playa Hermosa Fish and Oyster. Beyond Pier Plaza, on Hermosa Avenue, Jay Leno still draws crowds to the Comedy & Magic Club Sunday nights. To the plaza’s east, café/boutique Gum Tree and the Hook & Plow are standouts among
REDONDO BEACH The largest of L.A. County’s beach cities, Redondo Beach is home to the 1,457-seat Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center and a recreational waterfront featuring 2 miles of sandy beaches, the popular Redondo Beach Pier and King Harbor. Sepulveda Boulevard becomes Pacific Coast Highway as it enters town; signs point west to King Harbor’s Redondo Beach Marina, one of four marinas in the harbor. Here businesses such as Redondo Sportfishing offer fishing excursions and whale-watching tours, while other local outfitters rent out kayaks, paddleboats, bicycles and wave runners. South of the harbor, the historic Redondo Beach Pier has had its ups and downs, but it keeps rising from the ashes to attract locals and visitors to quick-and-casual eateries, amusements and souvenir shops. South of the pier, the gentle waves and somewhat narrow strip of Redondo State Beach
great find
SHOP THE SPECTRUM Anthropologie alum Dayna Mance’s free-spirited style is writ large in her colorful Belmont Heights store, Prism Boutique. Stop by for festival-ready apparel and accessories, vintage and new jewelry, locally made home decor (like the Prism x LOREM plant hangers pictured left) and pretty gifts you’ll want to keep for yourself. 406 Termino Ave., Long Beach, 562.433.4341, prismboutique.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY L.A. COUNTY DEPT. OF BEACHES & HARBORS; COURTESY AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC; COURTESY PRISM BOUTIQUE. OPPOSITE: EDWIN SANTIAGO
In the South Bay, the cities of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach occupy an idyllic coastal stretch known for surfing and volleyball. To the north is El Segundo; to the south are the beautiful bluffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and the bustling waterfronts of San Pedro and Long Beach.
NEW IN TOWN Irene’s Story
Shop affordable, feminine fashions at this cute brand’s Plaza El Segundo boutique. 2008 Park Place, El Segundo, 310.616.3488
Lasher’s Kitchen
After five years, this local-favorite restaurant reopens in Belmont Shore with its beloved meatloaf and clam chowder—and a new casual bent. 5295 E. 2nd St., Long Beach, 562.343.7228
Two Guns Kitchen
The New Zealandinspired Manhattan Beach coffee favorite opens a second South Bay outpost, serving all-day breakfast and lunch along with its premium espresso and flat whites. 321 Main St., El Segundo, 310.416.9194
The Redondo Beach Pier. Opposite, clockwise from top left: The Manhattan Beach Pier; an exhibit at the Aquarium of the Pacific WHERE LOS ANGELES 47
PALOS VERDES PENINSULA
/ SAN PEDRO / LONG BEACH shops, and beyond it is the marina, part of the Cabrillo Beach Recreational Complex. The complex also includes the Frank Gehry-designed Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and Cabrillo Beach— one of the county’s most popular windsurfing spots.
draw crowds during the summer, while the bike path meanders by on its way to its terminus at Torrance State Beach. One block east of the beach, the Riviera Village shopping district has a small-town feel, with restaurants and specialty boutiques such as Cami and the Catalina Cooking Store covering a six-block radius.
PALOS VERDES PENINSULA Beyond Redondo Beach rises the Palos Verdes Peninsula, a rugged 26-square-mile area known for majestic bluffs that afford sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Catalina Island. Head a few miles inland via Palos Verdes Drive North to the 87-acre South Coast Botanic Garden, a year-round attraction boasting 200,000 plants. Or hug the coast on Palos Verdes Drive West to Rancho Palos Verdes’ Point Vicente Interpretive Center, a popular gray-whalewatching site. Just beyond the adjacent Point Vicente lighthouse is the Mediterranean-style Terranea Resort, which offers fine dining, a 50,000-square-
foot oceanfront spa and a public nine-hole golf course. Farther along is the Wayfarers Chapel, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright’s son Lloyd Wright. The impressive Swedenborgian “glass church” is a popular wedding venue.
SAN PEDRO The multicultural community of San Pedro, on the southeastern side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, was once the largest commercial fishing port in the nation. Today it’s home to the bustling 7,500-acre Port of Los Angeles, which features passenger and cargo terminals, as well as a crafts marketplace and new brewery Brouwerij West. Catalina Express operates from Berth 95, offering daily boat service to Catalina’s quaint city of Avalon and rustic village of Two Harbors. More than a million travelers pass through the World Cruise Center (Berths 91-93) annually; adjacent to the complex is the battleshipturned-museum Battleship USS Iowa. The New England-style Ports O’ Call Village offers waterfront restaurants and
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Roundhouse Aquarium
insider tips
FAMILY TIME Manhattan Beach’s downtown is filled with spots sure to delight your whole brood. Bella Beach Kids 225 Manhattan Beach Blvd., 310.545.9990 Farmers Market 13th Street & Morningside Drive, mbfarmersmarket.com (Tuesdays 11 a.m.-4 p.m.) Live Oak Park Tot Lot 1601 Valley Drive, citymb.info/visitors Manhattan Beach Creamery 1120 Manhattan Beach Ave., 310.372.1155 Nikau Kai Surf x Cafe 1140 Highland Ave., 310.545.7007 Pages: A Bookstore 904 Manhattan Ave., 310.318.0900 Roundhouse Aquarium Manhattan Beach Pier, 2 Manhattan Beach Blvd., 310.379.8117 Uncle Bill’s Pancake House 1305 Highland Ave., 310.545.5177
FROM LEFT: NIAZ UDDIN; SUZANNE ENNIS
Santa Catalina Island
LONG BEACH In the county’s southwest corner, Long Beach is home to a busy commercial port, an attractionpacked waterfront and more than 5 miles of beaches. A popular draw is the 1,020-foot-long Queen Mary, a historic, supposedly haunted ship-turned-hotel, dining and shopping attraction permanently moored in Long Beach Harbor. The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, the Pike Outlets, the Aquarium of the Pacific and Shoreline Village are nearby. From the village, you can follow the Shoreline pedestrian bike path 3.1 miles, past the Long Beach Museum of Art and into the Belmont Shore neighborhood. Here you’ll find shops and restaurants along 2nd Street, Bay Shore Beach, the Belmont Pier and windsurfing and kite-surfing lessons. Across a small channel is Naples, where you can take gondola rides through the canals and dine at restaurants such as Michael’s on Naples. Downtown, along 4th Street between Junipero and Cherry avenues, vintage-furniture and clothing shops make up funky “Retro Row.” In the emergent East Village Arts District, hip galleries and boutiques are sprouting where Linden Avenue meets Broadway. Farther east, an impressive collection of modern and contemporary works decks the walls of the Museum of Latin American Art.
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CHAGALL, COSTUME FOR THE MAGIC FLUTE: GREEN-FACED MONSTER (WITH REPRODUCTION MASK) (1967), PHOTO © 2017 MUSEUM ASSOCIATES/LACMA
ART + CULTURE
The Art of Fantasy Los Angeles County Museum of Art takes visitors on a tour of a whimsical wonderland conjured by Russian artist Marc Chagall in Chagall: Fantasies for the Stage, continuing through Jan. 7, 2018. The ticketed exhibition celebrates the role music and dance played in Chagall’s artistic practice by focusing on his dream-inspired, handpainted set and costume designs, chiefly from four stage productions: the ballet Aleko, set to music by Pyotr Tchaikovsky (1942); The Firebird by Igor Stravinsky (1945); Daphnis and Chloe by Maurice Ravel (1958); and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s opera The Magic Flute (1967), a costume from which is pictured here. The exhibition also presents a selection of Chagall’s paintings, nearly 100 sketches and rare 1942 footage of the original Aleko performance, all shedding light on a side of this leading artist rarely seen by the public. See listing under Museums for address details.
/ DINING AMERICAN 71ABOVE Chef Vartan Abgaryan (Cliff’s Edge) heads up this restaurant on the 71st floor of the U.S. Bank Tower. In addition to skyline views, expect elevated modern American dishes like foie gras and a farm egg with crispy potato, chorizo, finger lime and cilantro. À la carte options are available at the bar, and prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus are offered in the main dining room and several private dining spaces. L (M-F), D (nightly). 633 W. 5th St., 71st Floor, downtown, 213.712.2683 $$$$ Map H16 ANIMAL Bare-bones eatery, from the guys known to Food Network fans as the “Two Dudes,” is a carnivore’s dream. Dishes include delectable takes on offal (such as crispy pig ear) and a bacon-chocolate-crunch bar for dessert. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 435 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.782.9225 $$$ Map I13 BIRCH Cahuenga Corridor spot from chef Brendan Collins serves a seasonally driven menu in a whitewashed, clean-lined space. D (Tu-Su), Sunday roast noon-4 pm. 1634 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, 323.960.3369 $$$ Map H13
Italia Meets L.A. New restaurants from renowned chefs are serving traditional Italian fare with a SoCal accent. Chef Steve Samson of Sotto (p. 58) recently opened stylish Rossoblu in the Fashion District, where he serves Bolognese family favorites (1124 San Julian St., downtown, 213.749.1099). Chef Evan Funke, who also honed his culinary craft in Bologna, now wows diners (and critics) with handmade pastas at Felix in Venice (p. 58). Wood-fired pizzas are king at casual Cosa Buona (2100 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 213.908.5211), chef Zach Pollack’s Echo Park sequel to Alimento (p. 58). And chef Vic Casanova’s beloved Gusto has moved into Pistola’s former space, giving the chef more spacious digs in which dishes like eggplant parmigiana (pictured above) can shine (8022 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.1778).
CLIFTON’S This kitschy downtown cafeteria, which dates to the 1930s, recently reopened after a multimilliondollar renovation. The multiple-story eatery offers oldschool cuisine, with a roast-meat-carving station and JellO for dessert, as well as a craft-beer bar and the Pacific Seas Tiki bar. L, D (Tu-Su). 648 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.627.1673 $$ Map I16 CRAFT New York chef Tom Colicchio of TV’s Top Chef brings his signature concept to L.A. The restaurant delivers a contemporary American à la carte menu, with fun, shareable dishes including roasted octopus and diver scallops with vermouth butter. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 10100 Constellation Blvd., L.A., 310.279.4180 $$$$ Map K11 DELILAH This celebrity-favored restaurant/lounge from the H.Wood Group pays homage to the Roaring ‘20s and offers a menu of classic and modern American cuisine (e.g., deviled eggs, chicken tenders and funnel cake). It’s the perfect spot for drinks, dinner and dancing. Reservation-only. D (nightly). 7969 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.745.0600 $$$ Map H12 FREDS AT BARNEYS Inside Beverly Hills retail destination Barneys New York, the first West Coast outpost of the retailer’s signature restaurant is a go-to for brunch, power lunches, shopping breaks and happy hour. Try the striking pizza with Robiola and truffle oil or the Beverly Hills club sandwich. Balconies boast views of the Hollywood sign and Beverly Hills. L (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 9570 Wilshire Blvd., Fifth Floor, Beverly Hills, 310.777.5877 $$$ Map J11 GWEN Maude chef Curtis Stone and brother Luke’s restaurant—named after their maternal grandmother— features meat-centric tasting menus served in an art deco dining room, plus a European-style butcher shop in the front that offers sandwiches. D (Tu-Sa). 6600 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.946.7513 $$$ Map H14 THE INDEPENDENCE This bright, friendly tavern in downtown Santa Monica, which pays homage to the Los Angeles & Independence Railroad, offers a great happy hour and a menu of New American cuisine that includes blistered shishito peppers and seafood stew with chorizo and shrimp broth. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 205 Broadway, Santa Monica, 310.458.2500 $$$ Map L8 INK.WELL The approachable menu at this new location of Top Chef winner Michael Voltaggio’s first restaurant, ink., incorporates menu signatures and classics from the ink. program, and the detached bar area is triple the size of the original. D (nightly). 826 N. La Cienega, L.A., 310.358.9058 $$$ Map J12
GUIDELINES
Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps in the back of this issue. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
INDEX American .......................54 Japanese .......................58 Breweries/Gastropubs .56 Mediterranean ..............59 British/Irish ...................56 Mexican/Latin ...............60 California .......................56 Pan-Asian......................60 Chinese..........................56 Seafood..........................60 Eclectic/Fusion .............57 Spanish..........................60 French............................57 Steak ..............................60 Italian .............................58 Thai ................................61
JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN This rusticyet-sophisticated restaurant offers creative takes on American regional classics. Try the Jimmy burger with jalapeño jam, pimento cheese and applewood smoked bacon, followed by the “Bananageddon” sundae for dessert. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1733 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 424.292.5222 $$ Map M8 JOAN’S ON THIRD Celebrity-frequented café on busy West 3rd Street and a newer location in the Valley offer omelets, sandwiches, salads, soups and sweets, plus picnic baskets and gourmet items. B, L, D (daily). 8350 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.655.2285; 12059 Ventura Place, Studio City, 818.201.3900 $ Map I12, T18 LEDLOW/P.Y.T. At Ledlow, chef Josef Centeno, who rules downtown’s Old Bank District (Bäco Mercat, Bar Amá, Orsa & Winston), offers twists on classic bistro dishes, American favorites and diverse cultural staples. Half of the space has now been transformed into the vegetable-focused concept P.Y.T. Ledlow: L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). P.Y.T.: L (M-F), D (Tu-Sa), Br (Sa-Su). 400 S. Main St., downtown, 213.687.7015 $$ Map I17 M.B. POST Chef David LeFevre serves small plates of seafood, fresh-baked breads, cured meats and more in the space of a former post office. The “Eat Your Vegetables” menu makes green beans and Brussels sprouts look tantalizing. L (F-Su), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1142 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5405 $$$ Map L13 ODYS + PENELOPE Churrasco and grill from Karen and Quinn Hatfield features a live-fire grill and woodfired smoker. Eclectic, flavorful cuisine is accompanied by a menu of craft beer, wine and handcrafted cocktails. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options also available. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 127 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.939.1033 $$$ Map B2 PLAN CHECK KITCHEN + BAR Minichain offers contemporary takes on American classics, complemented by craft beers and premium whiskeys. Try the acclaimed Plan Check burger. L.A., downtown: L, D (daily); Br (Su). Santa Monica: L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1800 Sawtelle Blvd., L.A., 310.444.1411; 351 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.591.0094; 1111 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.403.1616; 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.857.1364 $$ Map K9, I12, H16, L8 REDBIRD Chef Neal Fraser’s contemporary American cuisine is offered in the rectory of the former Cathedral of St. Vibiana. Rack of red wattle pork and chicken potpie are part of an intriguing menu. An updated Spanish Baroque decor and retro-inspired cocktails complete the scene. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 114 E. 2nd St., downtown, 213.788.1191 $$$ Map H17
W Eggs Benedict, Waldorf salad and Thousand Island dressing are among the dishes created at a Waldorf Astoria. See Jean-Georges BH on p. 56. 54 SOCALPULSE.COM
SKOTT SNIDER
THE GUIDE
DINING COMMERSON Newer neighborhood spot Commerson serves eclectic bistro fare with a French accent. Dine on menu highlights like a wild Pacific white shrimp and chorizo burger and roasted Creekstone Farms petit filet mignon with seared Rougié foie gras. The wine selection focuses on varietals from France and Italy; cocktails are fresh and simple. D (Tu-Su). 788 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.813.3000 $$ Map B2 EVELEIGH With a menu chockablock with farm-fresh veggies and meats and a country-chic space, Eveleigh projects an image of cool rusticity. The kitchen endeavors to use housemade ingredients right down to the apple gomme syrup in your cocktail and the brioche toast slices with your Jidori-chicken-liver pâté. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8752 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.239.1630 $$ Map H12
BREWERIES/GASTROPUBS
THE FRONT YARD This restaurant at the Garland hotel features fresh farm-to-table cuisine from chef Larry Greenwood. Start your meal with chive flatbread topped with chimichurri butter, then move on to entrées like Mary’s Chicken. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 4222 Vineland Ave., North Hollywood, 818.255.7290 $$ Map U19
ABIGAILE A venture of Blackhouse Hospitality (Little Sister, Steak & Whisky, Día de Campo), this funky, graffitimuraled American brasserie with a rooftop bar is lots of fun. Executive chef Tin Vuong presents escargot “poppers” washed down with house-brewed beer. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1301 Manhattan Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.798.8227 $$ Map L13
HINOKI & THE BIRD Inside luxury residential tower the Century, taste Japanese and Southeast Asian flavors in such dishes as lobster rolls with green curry and Thai basil, and black cod scented with the smoke of the namesake hinoki wood. L (M-F), D (Tu-Sa). 10 W. Century Drive, Century City, 310.552.1200 $$$ Map J10
FATHER’S OFFICE Microbrew mecca; one of L.A.’s best burgers. A new downtown location is in the works. Santa Monica: L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). Culver City: L (F-Su), D (nightly). 1018 Montana Ave., Santa Monica; 3229 Helms Ave., Culver City, 310.736.2224 $$ Map L8, L11
JEAN-GEORGES BEVERLY HILLS Michelin-rated French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s namesake restaurant at the new Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills is an opulent indoor/outdoor fine-dining destination, perfect for enjoying fresh, local cuisine. B, L, D (daily). 9850 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.860.6566 $$$ Map J11
SIMMZY’S Popular pub with locations in Manhattan Beach, Long Beach, Burbank and just off the Venice pier serves up hearty burgers (try the classic Simmzy’s), sandwiches, salads and other fresh fare. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 3000 W. Olive Ave., Burbank, 818.962.2500; 5271 E. 2nd St., Long Beach, 562.439.5590; 229 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.546.1201; 37 Washington Blvd., Venice, 424.835.6580 $ Map T20, O17, L13, N9
LOVE & SALT Dine on creative Cal-Italian fare (e.g., duck-egg pizza and whole roasted pig head) in this buzzy South Bay spot. Chef de cuisine/pastry chef Rebecca Merhej’s desserts are divine. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 317 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5252 $$$ Map L13
BRITISH/IRISH TEA ROSE GARDEN This whimsical, English-garden tearoom, an Old Pasadena fixture for 20 years, serves traditional fare including scones, finger sandwiches and salads sprinkled with flower petals. A florist and boutique selling tea trays and loose-leaf teas are also on-site. B, L, Br (daily). 70 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena, 626.578.1144 $$ Map Q20 YE OLDE KING’S HEAD Cozy pub/restaurant with traditional English fare, including acclaimed fish and chips. B, L, D (daily); high tea (M-Sa). 116 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.451.1402 $ Map L8
CALIFORNIA CUISINE 208 RODEO This gem of a café boasts a picturesque setting above Via Rodeo’s cobblestone street at luxe Two Rodeo—the perfect place to while away an afternoon and enjoy all-day California cuisine with pan-Asian and French influences. Standout dishes include wagyu burgers, seafood salad and penne arrabbiata. B, L, D (daily). Two Rodeo, 208 Via Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.275.2428 $$ Map J11 CAVATINA Esteemed East Coast chef Michael Schlow’s first L.A. restaurant serves simple, local, delicious cuisine inside the rock ‘n’ roll-steeped Sunset Marquis hotel. Don’t miss Schlow’s award-winning burger and the decadent Sunday brunch. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1200 Alta Loma Road, West Hollywood, 310.358.3759 $$$ Map H12
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MAUDE Celebrity chef Curtis Stone, an Aussie with a strong classical background, helms this intimate, 24-seat Beverly Hills restaurant named after his paternal grandmother. Every month a different seasonal ingredient is showcased and artfully presented in a 10-course menu. D (Tu-Sa). 212 S. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.859.3418 $$$$ Map J11 MICHAEL’S Michael McCarty’s influential farm-to-table restaurant, opened in 1979, is refreshed and back in the spotlight. New to the kitchen is acclaimed chef Miles Thompson (Allumette, Nobu, Son of a Gun), whose menu includes such innovative, ingredient-driven dishes as duck confit with rose geranium, sweet potato and pomegranate. Ask about California cult wines in the cellar collection. D (M–Sa). 1147 3rd St., Santa Monica, 310.451.0843 $$$ Map L8 PALEY Located in historic Columbia Square, this glamorous restaurant (named after former CBS CEO William S. Paley) pays homage to the Golden Age of Hollywood. Inside a midcentury-modern dining room, dine on classic dishes with a modern twist, such as braised pork belly with applesauce, frisée and whole-grain mustard. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 6115 Sunset Blvd., Suite 100, L.A., 323.544.9430 $$$ Map H14 PLANT FOOD + WINE Restaurant from Matthew Kenney takes a raw, locally sourced and plant-based approach to dining. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from an extensive organic and biodynamic selection. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1009 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1009 $$$ Map N9 RUSTIC CANYON Discover boutique wines while sampling small plates of market-driven, Mediterraneaninspired fare. Clam pozole is just one of the winners.
Hide in a cozy booth or mingle at the communal table. D (nightly). 1119 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.393.7050 $$$ Map L8 SPAGO An L.A. institution, Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant features a modern dining room and a daily changing menu that may include dishes like veal “Wiener schnitzel” and spicy tuna tartare. Glimpse some of the 30,000 wine bottles on offer in a glass-ensconced “wine wall.” L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly). 176 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.385.0880 $$$$ Map I11 THE STRAND HOUSE This beachside restaurant boasts awesome ocean and pier views and a breezy, stylish bar. New executive chef Austin Cobb’s menu highlights award-winning Coastal California Cuisine. L (Tu-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.7470 $$$ Map L13 TAR & ROSES Chef Andrew Kirschner’s first restaurant focuses on small, rustic shareable plates cooked in his wood-burning oven, but with a week’s notice, he can also whip up large, lavish family-style suppers of Moroccan-spiced goat or standing rib rack. D (nightly). 602 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.587.0700 $$$ Map L8 THE TASTING KITCHEN Foodies come for the daily changing menu of innovative yet unpretentious cuisine from culinary-darling chef Casey Lane: small or large plates of cured meats, artisan cheeses, vegetables, seafood and pastas. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1633 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.392.6644 $$$ Map M9 TAVERN James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin’s third L.A. restaurant explores rustic Cal-Med fare in chic environs, including a popular sunlit indoor patio. The frequently changing menu might include “devil’s chicken” with leeks and mustard breadcrumbs. The adjacent, more casual Larder offers divine housebaked pastries. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 11648 San Vicente Blvd., L.A., 310.806.6464 $$$ Map J9 VIVIANE The menu at the Avalon Hotel Beverly Hills’ poolside restaurant features California takes on European and American dishes. 1950s-inspired seasonal cocktails complement the hotel’s midcentury-modern design by Kelly Wearstler. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 9400 W. Olympic Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.407.7791 $$$ Map J11
CHINESE BAO DIM SUM Enjoy delicious, authentic dim sum in a relaxing, lantern-lit atmosphere. Favorites include juicy pork dumplings and shrimp shumai, followed by bao milk buns for dessert. L, D (daily). 8256 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.655.6556 $$ Map I12 DIN TAI FUNG At this popular and critically acclaimed dumpling house, founded in Taiwan, foodies line up for soup dumplings with filling combinations such as pork and crab or truffle and pork. Vegetable dishes like cucumber salad and sautéed string beans are also favorites. L, D (daily). 177 Caruso Ave., Glendale, 818.551.5561; 400 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, 626.446.8588 $$ Map U23, R23 MR CHOW The L.A. County editions of scene-y restaurants in New York, London, Miami, Las Vegas and Mexico City offer Imperial Beijing cuisine. Beverly Hills: L (M-F), D (nightly). Malibu: D (nightly). 344 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.278.9911; Malibu Country Mart, 3835 Cross Creek Road, 18A, Malibu, 310.456.7600 $$$ Map I11, K7 ROC At this Little Osaka dumpling house, popular menu items include a scallion pancake, three-cup chicken and made-from-scratch soup dumplings stuffed with pork and fresh crab. L, D (daily). 2049 Sawtelle Blvd., L.A., 310.235.2089; 8474 W. 3rd St., Suite 108, L.A., 323.782.8808; 12775 Millennium Drive, Suite 110, L.A., 424.835.4777 $$ Map K10, I12, 010
COURTESY COMMERSON
Commerson’s charred wild-caught Spanish octopus (right)
DINING
Bold, Exotic Flavors and 25% Off
YANG CHOW Fine Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine and an elegant atmosphere have made this restaurant a Chinatown mainstay since 1977. Don’t miss the worldfamous Slippery Shrimp, which have been featured on Food Network. Additional outposts are in the Valley and Pasadena. L, D (daily). 819 N. Broadway, downtown, 213.625.0811; 6443 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Canoga Park, 818.347.2610; 3777 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.432.6868 $$ Map G17, west of A1, Q22
ECLECTIC/FUSION BAROO Tucked in a homely Hollywood strip mall, this highly acclaimed restaurant from chef Kwang Uh, who was raised in Korea and staged at Noma in Copenhagen, is a celebration of experimentation and fermentation. The concise, oft-changing menu includes bibim salads, rice bowls and handmade pastas. L, D (Tu-Sa). 5706 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 323.819.4344 $$ Map H14
Grilled Filet Mignon & Teppanyaki Shrimp
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RoysRestaurant.com.
2O8 RODEO
2017-Q2-ROYS-Pasadena_Woodland_WHERE_AD_4.625x4.875_v2.indd 1
Beverly Hills Since 1991
CASSIA This bustling Southeast Asian-inspired brasserie, set inside a 1930s art deco building, finds chef Bryant Ng (Spice Table) serving dishes like Vietnamese pot au feu, black cod with anchovy broth and grilled pork-belly vermicelli. Sister concept Esters Wine Shop & Bar is adjacent. D (nightly). 1314 7th St., Santa Monica, 310.393.6699 $$$ Map L8
Roy’s Pasadena 641 East Colorado Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91101 TEL (626) 356-4066 Roy’s Woodland Hills 6363 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Woodland Hills, CA 91367 TEL (818) 888-4801
ORSA & WINSTON Chef/owner Josef Centeno draws on Japanese and Italian traditions at his acclaimed third restaurant. Select a vegetable, fish or meat grain bowl for lunch; for dinner, enjoy a daily changing six-course tasting menu with nightly supplements and an optional wine pairing. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa). 122 W. 4th St., downtown, 213.687.0300 $$$$ Map I16
FRENCH
AVEC NOUS Contemporary French bistro where chef Olivier Quignon, previously at Bar Boulud in New York City, offers dishes inspired by the French Riviera, such as escargot; sea scallops with mushy broccoli, turmeric chermoula and squid-ink crisp; and whole oven-roasted cauliflower 5/5/17 11:13 AM vadouvan curry, served tableside. B, L, D (daily). Viceroy L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, 9291 Burton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.860.8660 $$$ Map J12
BREA K FA S T LUNCH
DI NNER
BOUCHON The Bouchon bistros from chef Thomas Keller (the French Laundry, Per Se) have become popular for their authentic good looks and superbly executed cuisine. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 235 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.271.9910 $$$ Map J11 CAFÉ PINOT This glass box of a restaurant adjacent to Central Library offers romantic outdoor dining, skyline views—from the bottom up—and contemporary Cal-French cuisine from the Patina Group. D (M-Sa). 700 W. 5th St., downtown, 213.239.6500 $$$ Map H16 KENDALL’S BRASSERIE AND BAR Located at the Music Center, Kendall’s is a convenient spot for before or after a performance. In addition to dishes with a contemporary flair, all the brasserie favorites are here (e.g., moules frites). The BoardRoom, a new Parisianinspired lounge with live music, is adjacent. L (M-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.7322 $$ Map H16 LE PETIT PARIS The L.A. iteration of David and Fanny Rolland’s original Le Petit Paris in Cannes is housed in the historic El Dorado building. By day, the brasserie is bright and tranquil, serving French classics such as steak frites and bourbon-vanilla crème brûlée, and at night it transforms into an upscale lounge, complete with a DJ. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 418 S. Spring St., downtown, 213.217.4445 $$$ Map I17
208 N. Rodeo Drive - Beverly Hills - 90210 - 310 275 2428 www.208rodeo.com
THE LITTLE DOOR For a candlelit dinner in an elegant setting, this is the reservation ne plus ultra. Dine on rustic French-Mediterranean dishes under the stars or by a crackling fireplace. The restaurant’s casual extension, Little Next Door, serves modern
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DINING French brasserie fare. D (nightly). 8164 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.951.1210 $$$ Map I12
MATTEO’S An old favorite of the Rat Pack endures. Classic dishes include mussels in white wine and osso buco Milanese. D (Tu-Su). 2321 Westwood Blvd., L.A., 310.475.4521 $$ Map K10
MÉLISSE At Mélisse, among L.A.’s highest-rated restaurants, chef/owner Josiah Citrin executes a sophisticated, modern French menu filled with luxe ingredients. Start with lobster bolognese with truffles before superb game dishes. D (Tu-Sa). 1104 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.395.0881 $$$$ Map M8
OFFICINE BRERA From the team behind the Factory Kitchen, this stylish trattoria serves a daily changing, Northern Italy-inspired menu in a rustic-meets-contemporary space. The rice dishes, spit-roasted meats and handmade pastas are superb. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1331 E. 6th St., downtown, 213.553.8006 $$$ Map J17
PATINA The Walt Disney Concert Hall pairs classicalmusic offerings with fine dining, thanks to its fine inhouse restaurant. Game dishes are a frequent presence on the menu. D (Tu-Su). 141 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.3331 $$$$ Map H16
OSTERIA MOZZA Famed L.A.-based bread maker Nancy Silverton teamed up with affable Mario Batali on Mozza’s group of contemporary Italian restaurants. Osteria Mozza is a more sophisticated dining room in which to experience the repertoire of these great transcontinental talents. D (nightly). 6602 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.0100 $$$ Map H13
RÉPUBLIQUE In a landmark once occupied by Charlie Chaplin’s studio, fine-dining veteran Walter Manzke and pastry-chef wife Margarita turn out bistro classics (e.g., escargots, duck confit and steak frites) for a trendy clientele huddling at communal tables. Café B, L (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Bistro D (nightly). 624 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 310.362.6115 $$$ Map I13 TROIS MEC The foodie trinity of Ludo Lefebvre, Vinny Dotolo and Jon Shook is behind this hot restaurant in a 26-seat former pizzeria. Diners must purchase advance tickets via the restaurant’s website to enjoy Lefebvre’s prix-fixe, five-course meal. D (M-F). 716 N. Highland Ave., L.A., troismec.com $$$$ Map H13
ITALIAN ALIMENTO Zach Pollack, who recently opened Cosa Buona in Echo Park, is behind this tiny, hip space, where a clever menu includes addictive chicken-liver crostone with quince mostarda, crudo and pastas. The tortellini in brodo features dumplings filled with a hot broth that explodes in your mouth. D (Tu-Su). 1710 Silver Lake Blvd., L.A., 323.928.2888 $$$ Map east of W23 BESTIA Multiregional Italian restaurant in the hip Arts District. The former executive chef at Angelini Osteria serves up such “beast”-focused dishes as roasted marrow bone with spinach gnocchetti, breadcrumbs and aged balsamic, and a selection of house-cured meats. D (nightly). 2121 E. 7th Place, downtown, 213.514.5724 $$$ Map east of J17 BOTTEGA LOUIE This palatial Italian restaurant, decked out in white marble, is a hip, noisy hall where young professionals convene over brick-oven-cooked pizzas. There’s a gourmet market and patisserie, too. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 700 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.802.1470 $$ Map I16 CECCONI’S This London-based restaurant caters to well-heeled clients who schmooze over Bellinis and cicchetti (small plates). Pastas including a beautiful agnolotti del plin, and seafood such as grilled octopus are well-executed. Select regulars get a coveted key that comes with discounts and bragging rights. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 8764 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 310.432.2000 $$$ Map I12 CULINA The Four Seasons’ acclaimed Italian restaurant boasts coastal influences and a sleek crudo bar. Adjacent is new Vinoteca, an Italian-inspired wine and espresso-bar concept. B, D (daily); L (M-Sa); Br (Su). Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, 300 S. Doheny Drive, L.A., 310.860.4000 $$$ Map J12 DRAGO CENTRO Chef Celestino Drago’s well-executed Italian fare and extensive wine list are presented in a contemporary and handsome space. L (M-F), D (nightly). 525 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.228.8998 $$$ Map H16
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BARAN’S 2239 This South Bay restaurant from brothers Jonathan and Jason Baran serves up shareable dishes in an intimate space that belies its stripmall setting. Chef Tyler Gugliotta (the Tasting Kitchen) incorporates produce from his family’s farm into seasonal specialties with multicultural influences, including the bistro filet with cherry demi-glace, celeryroot latke and horseradish pictured above. After your entrée, opt for a dessert-and-local-beer pairing for a memorable finale. D (Tu-Su). 502 Pacific Coast Hwy., Hermosa Beach, 424.247.8468 $$ Map L13
THE FACTORY KITCHEN Former Valentino chef Angelo Auriana turns his attention to a casual, industrial-chic setting in the Arts District. Fresh-made pastas, beautiful cheeses and cured meats, complemented by an inventive cocktail program, contribute to a daily changing menu. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1300 Factory Place, downtown, 213.996.6000 $$$ Map J17 FELIX Chef Evan Funke’s trattoria, Felix, boasts an open kitchen, a wood-fired pizza oven, a Tuscan grill and a glass-enclosed, temperature-controlled pasta laboratorio where Funke’s masterpieces—pappardelle, tonnarelli, strascinati—take shape before diners’ eyes. D (nightly). 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 424.387.8622, $$$ Map M9 JON & VINNY’S Family-friendly diner from chefs/ owners Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo has it all—pastries, pizza, pasta (made in-house) and meat entrées. Takeout and delivery are also available. B, L, D (daily). 412 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.334.3369 $$ Map B2 LA VECCHIA CUCINA Rustic Northern Italian in a laid-back bistro. More than a dozen pastas for dinner, plus pizzas, osso buco alla Romana and other traditional favorites. L, D (daily). 2654 Main St., Santa Monica, 310.399.7979 $$ Map M8 LOCANDA DEL LAGO Northern Italian restaurant featuring organic produce from Santa Monica farmers markets. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 231 Arizona Ave., Santa Monica, 310.451.3525 $$ Map L8
PIZZERIA MOZZA/MOZZA2GO The more relaxed sibling of Nancy Silverton and Mario Batali’s Osteria Mozza, Pizzeria Mozza features pizzas with Mediterranean ingredients, cheeses and salumi plates and rustic daily specials. Call ahead for delivery or takeout from Mozza2Go. L, D (daily). Pizzeria Mozza: 641 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.297.0101. Mozza2Go: 6610 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.1130 $$ Map H13 SOTTO This restaurant specializes in regionally inspired Italian cooking, including beautifully executed rustic trattoria dishes; soft, chewy Neapolitan pizzas cooked in an 8-ton wood-burning oven; and intriguing housemade pastas. D (nightly). 9575 W. Pico Blvd., L.A., 310.277.0210 $$$ Map J11 TERRONI Southern Italian cooking including excellent thin-crust pizza. Downtown: L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). L.A.: L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 802 S. Spring St., downtown, 213.221.7234; 7605 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.954.0300 $$ Map I16, J13 VALENTINO For more than 40 years, Piero Selvaggio has maintained his flagship’s status as a pre-eminent temple of Italian gastronomy. A telephone-book-sized wine list—often cited as America’s best—is supported by a cellar containing more than 100,000 bottles. L (F), D (Tu-Sa). 3115 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.829.4313 $$$$ Map L9
JAPANESE ISE-SHIMA Located in the Miyako Hybrid Hotel in Old Town Torrance, Ise-Shima provides fresh sushi and other exciting Japanese dishes, recalling the array of seafood and marine delicacies Japan’s Ise Shima region offers. The expansive restaurant consists of a sushi bar, lounge space, large communal table and terrace. B, L, D (daily). 21381 S. Western Ave., Torrance, 310.320.6700 $$ Map M14 KATANA Sunset Strip restaurant with sushi bar and robata-style cuisine: open-flame-grilled meat, vegetables, seafood on skewers. Stylish rooms, patio. Upscalecasual dress code. D (nightly). 8439 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.650.8585 $$$ Map H12 KATSUYA Sushi chef Katsuya Uechi turns out exotic delicacies in sultry spaces by designer Philippe Starck. L (varies by location), D (nightly). 11777 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.207.8744; 6300 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.871.8777; 702 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.244.5900; L.A. Live, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 323.525.2400 $$$ Map K9, H14, northeast of T23, I15 MATSUHISA Superchef Nobu Matsuhisa’s relatively modest original flagship incorporates luxurious Western ingredients and Latin American spices. Monkfish liver pâté with caviar, and lamb chops with miso anticucho sauce are just a couple of his creations. L (M-F), D (nightly). 129 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.659.9639 $$$$ Map I12
COURTESY WHITE OAK COMMUNICATIONS
PETIT TROIS Trois Mec’s French-bar-style spinoff offers an à la carte menu of classic dishes such as confit-fried chicken leg, croque monsieur and a delectable omelet with Boursin cheese. L, D (daily). 718 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.468.8916 $$$ Map H13
DINING NOBU The flagship of chef Nobu Matsuhisa offers an extensive menu of traditional and avant-garde sushi, including many dishes with beguiling Peruvian accents. West Hollywood: D (nightly). Malibu: B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 903 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.657.5711; Nobu Malibu, 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.9140 $$$$ Map H12, east of A1 Q SUSHI The omakase-only experience at this intimate sushi bar showcases the artistry and discipline of chef Hiroyuki Naruke in items like seared toro and monkfish as rich as foie gras. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa). 521 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.225.6285 $$$$ Map I16 ROBATA BAR Japanese grilling from the Sushi Roku, Katana and BOA team. Striking design by Dodd Mitchell. D (nightly). 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.458.4771 $$$ Map L8 ROKU Sunset Strip hot spot from the team behind Sushi Roku presents elevated teppanyaki prepared at interactive grill tables, as well as sushi, omakase offerings and an extensive selection of Japanese whiskeys. L (M-F), D (nightly). 9201 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2060 $$$ Map H12 SUGARFISH Kazunori Nozawa—chef/owner of Studio City’s famed former Sushi Nozawa—opened these cheery, casual spots offering preset menus. Tips are included, but prices are still about half those at the original. L, D (daily). 4722 1/4 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.306.6300; 11640 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.820.4477; 600 W. 7th St., Suite 150, downtown, 213.627.3000; 1345 2nd St., Santa Monica, 310.393.3338; 4799 Commons Way, Calabasas, 818.223.9966; 212 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.276.6900 (more locations at sugarfishsushi.com) $$ Map N9, K9, I16, L8, west of A1, J11
Ye Olde King’s Head
World Famous British Pub, Restaurant, Shoppe & Bakery
SUSHI ROKU Nouvelle Japanese, sleek decor and a creative menu. L, D (daily). 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.458.4771; 33 Miller Alley, Pasadena, 626.683.3000 $$$ Map L8, Q19
MEDITERRANEAN A.O.C. Mediterranean-inspired pioneer of two L.A. culinary trends—the small-plates format and the wine bar— from James Beard Award-winning chef/owner Suzanne Goin. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8700 W. 3rd St., L.A., 310.859.9859 $$ Map I12 THE BELVEDERE The Peninsula Beverly Hills’ elegant restaurant has a modernized interior, a lovely terrace and a Mediterranean menu from executive chef David Codney. The Champagne brunch is a don’t-miss. B, D (daily); L (M-Sa); Br (Su). 9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.788.2306 $$$$ Map J11 BOWERY BUNGALOW Restaurateur George AbouDaoud honors his Middle Eastern heritage at this Silver Lake restaurant by applying Silk Road flavors to all-American concepts like Southern baby-back ribs. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 4156 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 323.663.1500 $$ Map south of W23
British Fare, imported beers and world famous Fish & Chips. Heated patio. Call for soccer schedule. Stop by the gift shoppe for food and collectibles from the British Isles, including bone china, teapots, souvenir items, tea, candy, wine, freshly baked goods and much more. Open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner Weekdays 9 am | Weekends 8 am Happy Hour Afternoon Tea Karaoke Trivia Live Soccer
M-F 4-7 pm Mon-Sat 11:30 am-4 pm Su 9 pm Every Wed 8 pm Check Schedule
116 Santa Monica Blvd. Santa Monica (310) 451-1402 www.yeoldekingshead.com
CROSSROADS KITCHEN Chef/partner Tal Ronnen creates exclusively plant-based dishes, many based on nonvegan comfort-food classics. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8284 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.782.9245 $$$ Map H12 ESTÉREL The restaurant at the Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills features a French garden, Le Jardin, which offers alfresco seating, as well as an indoor private-party area called the Aviary, an open-plan main dining room, two private dining rooms and the adjacent Riviera 31 lounge. B, D (daily); L (M-F); Br (Sa-Su). 8555 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.358.3979 $$$ Map I12 GJELINA Under the direction of talented young chef Travis Lett, Cal-Med small plates and pizzas are served to chic Westsiders. It’s one of Venice’s most popular
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DINING
PAN-ASIAN
Pizza at Felix (p. 58)
restaurants and the neighborhood’s liveliest patio. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1429 $$ Map N9 LUCQUES Chef/owner Suzanne Goin (A.O.C.) delivers the next generation of Cal-Med cuisine, which includes dishes such as grilled salmon wrapped in grape leaves and served with green rice, feta, labneh and caper salsa. L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly). 8474 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.655.6277 $$$ Map I13 MIRO Executive chef Gavin Mills (Tavern) oversees a pan-Mediterranean menu of shareable dishes such as wood-fired pizzas, charcuterie and pasta at this stylish Financial District restaurant. A glamorous, intimate whiskey lounge is downstairs. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 888 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.988.8880 $$$ Map I16
MEXICAN/LATIN BROKEN SPANISH The upscale sister of B.S. Taqueria, this “modern Mexican” restaurant near L.A. Live serves classically trained chef Ray Garcia’s innovative twists on traditional dishes. D (nightly). 1050 S. Flower St., Suite 102, downtown, 213.749.1460 $$$ Map I15 B.S. TAQUERIA The colorful setting at this Ray Garcia-helmed spot—a casual sibling of Broken Spanish, above—offers the right vibe for lemon-pepper chicken chicharrones or clam-and-lardo tacos. A B.S. Taqueria concession stand serves tacos and churros at Staples Center. L (M-F), D (nightly). 514 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.622.3744 $$ Map H15 DÍA DE CAMPO Part of Blackhouse Hospitality (Little Sister, Abigaile, Steak & Whisky), this restaurant offers innovative Mexican dishes such as chocolate-duck quesadillas, chorizo-stuffed dates and wood-grilled lobster with chili butter in a sexy surf-lodge setting. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1238 Hermosa Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.379.1829 $$ Map L13 GRACIAS MADRE Organic, plant-based Mexican fare is served at this beautiful restaurant (the patio’s ambiance can’t be beat) from the team behind Café Gratitude. Inventive dishes like coconut-ceviche tostadas and flautas de papas please vegans and omnivores alike. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8905 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.978.2170 $$ Map I12
LITTLE SISTER At these trendy spots from young chef Tin Vuong, sophisticated accents are added to panAsian cuisine, as evidenced in signatures like deep-fried Balinese meatballs with banana ketchup, Myanmar okra curry and salt-and-pepper lobster. M.B.: L (F-Su), D (nightly). Downtown: B, L, D (daily). 1131 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.2096; 523 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.628.3146 $$ Map L13, I16
SON OF A GUN Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, the meat-loving chefs at Animal, turn to the sea for new inspiration. They cook up small shareable plates, such as miniature lobster rolls and shrimp-toast sandwiches, in a nautically themed space. L, D (daily). 8370 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.9033 $$$ Map I12
LUKSHON Sang Yoon of Father’s Office is behind this Southeast Asian eatery with a selection of craft beers and a Far East-inspired cocktail program. The crispy whole market fish is not to be missed. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa). 3239 Helms Ave., Culver City, 310.202.6808 $$$ Map K12
THE BAZAAR BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS Star chef José Andrés brings a whimsical Spanish-style dining experience to the SLS Hotel. Cuisine ranges from rustic fare to the cutting-edge creations that have made Spain a culinary leader. D (nightly). 465 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.246.5555 $$$ Map H16
WP24 From its 24th-floor roost, WP24 proves that Wolfgang Puck, who pioneered Asian fusion, has still got the goods. Highlights include XO seafood dumplings and steamed bao filled with pork belly. Restaurant/lounge concept Nest at WP24 is adjacent. Dining room D (Tu-Sa). Nest D (nightly). The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, 900 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.743.8824 $$$$ Map I15
STEAK
SEAFOOD BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE Putting a “California twist on East Hampton summer lobster bakes,” this narrow restaurant near the Santa Monica Pier specializes in dishes such as oysters on the half shell, New England clam chowder and lobster rolls. Sit outside to take in Pacific views. L, D (daily). 355 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.576.3474 $$$ Map L8 CAFE DEL REY Ogle impressive pleasure boats in the marina at this waterfront restaurant with plentiful fresh catch, a raw bar and prime cuts of steak. Stop in for its great nightly happy hour, too. L (M–F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 4451 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.823.6395 $$$ Map N9 DUKE’S MALIBU Named after the father of international surfing, Duke Kahanamoku, this oceanfront restaurant captures the spirit of aloha. Not to be outshone by the spectacular views is the cuisine, which features a daily selection of fresh fish and tropical cocktails. L (M-Sa); D (nightly); Br (Su). 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.0777 $$ Map west of K7 ENTERPRISE FISH CO. Established in 1979, this restaurant is a local favorite when it comes to seafood. Wild-caught fish, fresh seafood and steaks are cooked over a mesquite charcoal grill in an exhibition kitchen set in the middle of the dining room. L, D (daily). 174 Kinney St., Santa Monica, 310.392.8366 $$$ Map M9 FISHING WITH DYNAMITE Chef David LeFevre (the Arthur J, M.B. Post) loads his menu with East Coast inspirations. Among the old-school small plates in this tiny, charming restaurant are New England-style clam chowder with Nueske’s bacon and Maryland blue-crab cakes with house-made pickles and remoulade. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1148 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.893.6299 $$$ Map L13
RED O Rick Bayless, one of America’s leading authorities on Mexican cuisine, is culinary director of these sexy eateries, where creative dishes are grounded in tradition. WeHo: D (nightly). Santa Monica: L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 8155 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.655.5009; 1541 Ocean Ave., Suite 120, Santa Monica, 310.458.1600 $$$ Map I12, L8
PROVIDENCE Michael Cimarusti transforms sustainable seafood into oft-changing dishes at this refined restaurant, which the Los Angeles Times rates as the best in the city. Outstanding cocktails complement Michelinrecognized cuisine. L (F), D (nightly). 5955 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.460.4170 $$$$ Map I14
SALAZAR This trendy taco destination—a colorful desert oasis set in a reworked Frogtown auto-body
ROY’S James Beard Award-winning chef Roy Yamaguchi, who pioneered innovative Pacific Rim cuisine in L.A.
60 SOCALPULSE.COM
more than 30 years ago, is behind this chain of contemporary Hawaiian-inspired restaurants with stylish tropical decor. D (nightly). 6363 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills, 818.888.4801; 641 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.356.4066 $$$ Map I16, west of A1, Q21
SPANISH
ALEXANDER’S STEAKHOUSE This ultraluxurious interpretation of the classic American steakhouse incorporates Asian influences. Certified Angus beef and domestic and imported wagyu star on the menu. New Bull & Barrel bar concept offers the menu and a whiskey-forward cocktail menu. D (nightly). 111 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, 626.486.1111 $$$ Map Q20 THE ARTHUR J This Manhattan Beach steakhouse by chef David LeFevre (M.B. Post, Fishing With Dynamite) offers a classic menu that will delight any carnivore, but the seafood dishes and sides-with-a-twist are excellent as well. D (nightly). 903 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.878.9620 $$$$ Map C2 BALTAIRE Helmed by executive chef Travis Strickland, this sophisticated Brentwood restaurant offers prime steaks, wines by the glass, old-school charm and sun-orstars dining on its 2,500-square-foot terrace. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 11647 San Vicente Blvd., L.A., 424.273.1660 $$$$ Map J12 BOA STEAKHOUSE Way hip, way fine steakhouse. Steak rubs and dips; out-there cocktails on a recently revamped bar menu. New globally inspired burgers (e.g., tuna and ramen) are highlights on the lunch menu. Santa Monica: L, D (daily). West Hollywood: L (M-F), D (nightly). 101 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.899.4466; 9200 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2050 $$$ Map M8, H12 CUT A collaboration between Getty Center architect Richard Meier and Wolfgang Puck, Cut is the place to savor genuine wagyu beef steaks or dry-aged Nebraska beef. D (M-Sa). Beverly Wilshire Hotel, 9500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.276.8500 $$$ Map J11 FOGO DE CHÃO Brazilian steakhouse-barbecue restaurants where guests are treated to an endless procession of meats carved right onto their plates. L (Su-F), D (nightly). 133 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.289.7755; 800 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.228.4300 $$$ Map J12, I16 THE GRILL ON THE ALLEY The Grill is a venerable industry hangout, where polished waiters deliver steaks, Cobb salads and other old-school fare. Beverly Hills: L (M-Sa), D (nightly). Westlake Village: L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 9560 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.276.0615; 120 E. Promenade Way, Westlake Village, 805.418.1760 $$$ Map I11, west of A1 MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB At this on-the-waterfront eatery—the views are pure Malibu—starters like ahi tartare and caviar are followed by fresh fish, whole Maine lobster and expertly prepared steaks. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.454.4357 $$$$ Map west of K7
ALAN GASTELUM
shop—specializes in outdoor dining, grilled meats and fun drinks. Pair tasty tacos with aguas frescas and cocktails. L, D (T-Su); Br (Sa-Su). 2490 Fletcher Drive, L.A., salazarla.com $$ Map southeast of W23
DINING MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE Swanky “steakhouse with personality.” Bone-in filet reigns; warm butter cake melts in your mouth. Penthouse at Mastro’s is an upstairs lounge. D (nightly). 246 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.888.8782 $$$ Map J11
8315 WEST 3RD STREET LOS ANGELES 90048 323.424.4807 WWW.PYRRHA.COM
MORTON’S Clubby ambiance, show-and-tell menu, huge portions. Beverly Hills, Woodland Hills: D (nightly). Downtown, Burbank: L (M-F), D (nightly). 435 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.246.1501; 6250 Canoga Ave., Woodland Hills, 818.703.7272; 735 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.553.4566; The Pinnacle, 3400 W. Olive Ave., Burbank, 818.238.0424 $$$ Map I11, west of A1, I16, T20 MUSSO & FRANK GRILL Hollywood’s oldest restaurant (1919). Enjoy flannel cakes, lobster Thermidor and Welsh rarebit with the martini; legend has it that this place invented the drink. B, L (Tu-Sa); D (Tu-Su). 6667 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.7788 $$ Map H13
We Cal t California Perfection Weekend Dinner & Champagne Brunch Cruises
NICK + STEF’S Bunker Hill institution Nick + Stef’s is a midcentury-modern vision whose menu includes showstopping meat dishes, as well as an expanded seafood menu. USDA Prime beef is aged on-site in a glassencased aging chamber. L (M-F), D (nightly). Wells Fargo Building, 330 S. Hope St., downtown, 213.680.0330 $$$ Map H16 THE STINKING ROSE True to its motto, “We season our garlic with food,” this Restaurant Row mainstay offers eclectic, garlicky menu options and premium steaks. Pianist Gary Sherer performs Th-Sa evenings in the Gar Bar. L, D (daily). 55 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.652.7673 $$ Map I12 STK The One Group’s renowned steakhouse has a sleek and sultry new L.A. home inside the W hotel in Westwood. Expect signature steaks, shellfish platters and jalapeño-cheddar grits, as well as new dishes such as seared foie gras with spiced rum, and crispy lobster tails. D (nightly). W Los Angeles—West Beverly Hills, 930 Hilgard Ave., L.A., 310.659.3535 $$$ Map J10
THAI JITLADA THAI The wait for a table is long at this top-rated restaurant in East Hollywood’s Thai Town, but the southern Thai specialties, such as moo mae chan (grilled pork southern-style with papaya salad and sticky rice), are authentic and exceptional. L, D (Tu-Su). 5233 1/2 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.667.9809 $$ Map W22
855-559-3571 • HORNBLOWER.COM
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NATALE E T H A I
C U I S I N E
“Readers’ Choice Award 2011-2012” ~LA Times “Best of The West Side 2013-2015” ~The Argonaut
Venice (310) 202-7003 10101 Venice Blvd. Full Bar | Sushi Bar Beverly Hills (310) 855-9380 998 S. Robertson Blvd. Full Bar | Valet Parking
Dine In | Delivery Take Out | Order Online
nataleethai.com
NATALEE THAI Traditional Thai dishes are served amid edgy, modern decor. Popular entrées include Nutty Chicken (a spicy combo of chicken, onion and dried chilies) and a sole filet in red curry sauce. Veggie lovers favor the spicy maha jumlong curry. L, D (daily). 10101 Venice Blvd., Culver City, 310.202.7003; 998 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.855.9380 $ Map L11, I11 NIGHT + MARKET For authentic Thai food, head to either the WeHo or Silver Lake location (the latter is Night + Market Song) of this hip spot from L.A.-born chef Kris Yenbamroong, who was named one of 2016’s best new chefs by Food & Wine. Celebrity diners include Gwyneth Paltrow and Lena Dunham. WeHo: L (Tu-Th), D (Tu-Su). Silver Lake: L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 9043 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.275.9724; 3322 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.665.5899 $$ Map I12, south of W23
where? LOG ON ANYWHERE. SOCALPULSE.COM
WHERE LOS ANGELES 61
LADINING DELUCA TRATTORIA Deluca is a classic, country-style Tuscan trattoria renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine and rustic décor. Its menu is filled with traditional dishes that bring forth the true culinary spirit of Italy, such as polpette al forno con mozzarella, pappardelle all’uovo all’aragosta and tortellini di formaggio al pesto. Each dish is made to order from scratch with locally sourced ingredients, just like Nonna made and Momma makes today. Visit the restaurant in downtown El Segundo to gather with friends over a delicious meal and to immerse yourself in Florentine culture and history. For the Deluca team, bringing joy to guests through food, wine and warm hospitality is more than just rewarding—it’s truly heart-warming. D (M-Sa).
225 Richmond St., El Segundo 310.640.7600 • delucapasta.com
THE STINKING ROSE— A GARLIC RESTAURANT The Stinking Rose has been a mainstay on the dining scene since 1996. The restaurant’s latest addition is a supplemental Garlic Stake menu, which includes such premium beef specialties as the Little Devil petite filet mignon, Dracula’s Porterhouse (a carnivore’s dream of the perfectly prepared cut, with New York and filet mignon cooked separately), a bone-in filet mignon and the newest addition, a ribeye steak. The Gar Bar is the perfect setting to enjoy an evening of standards and pop songs performed by piano man Gary Sherer, who tickles the ivories Thursday through Saturday nights. Settle into a cozy booth or find a seat at the bar and enjoy an evening of fine food and pure entertainment. L, D (daily). 55 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills 310.652.7673 • thestinkingrose.com
LE PETIT PARIS Set in the 1913 El Dorado building downtown, French brasserie Le Petit Paris boasts unique architecture, art deco details and multiple dining spaces, including an expansive mezzanine, two opulent bars, a large patio, a gift shop showcasing artisanal French products and a grand staircase leading to a romantic room designed with date nights in mind. Under chandeliers and skylights, enjoy an all-day menu of French classics such as the restaurant’s world-famous cognac-flambéed truffle pasta, complemented by European and California wines from an extensive list. Sundays, sup on bottomless cocktails while feasting on a lavish, pastry-laden buffet brunch. As evening falls, the ambiance turns seductive, complete with a French DJ and live jazz on Wednesdays. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 418 S. Spring St., downtown 213.217.4445 • lepetitparisla.com
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LADINING MATTEO’S RESTAURANT Frequented in its early days by celebs including Frank Sinatra and the rest of the Rat Pack, Matteo’s Restaurant has redefined its look and cuisine while maintaining its status as the epitome of classic cool. Now in its 50th year, Matteo’s continues to offer unique seasonal fare in a homey and hip setting. Executive chef Antonio Orlando’s menu features sumptuous, cosmopolitan Italian fare like veal tartufato, lamb and weekly game specials. Happy hour specials Tuesday through Friday and on Sunday include half-off drinks and a $7-and-under bar menu. Gluten-free and vegetarian options also available. For lunch, visit adjacent cafe Hoboken, open weekdays. D (Tu-Su).
2321 Westwood Blvd., L.A. 310.475.4521 • matteosla.com
LOCANDA DEL LAGO Locanda del Lago blends organic produce from the Santa Monica Farmers Market and many other local purveyors with Italian ingredients to create dishes from Northern Italy’s Lombardy region. This family-run restaurant attracts celebrities, foodies, locals and travelers with its authentic and traditional recipes. Dishes feature high-quality meats and pastas such as all-natural Niman Ranch veal shank, salt baked wild sea bass, housemade ravioli and home-made buckwheat pappardelle. A full vegetarian menu is also available. Enjoy the breads, desserts and gelato, made in-house daily. The warm interior and sidewalk patio overlooking the bustling Third Street Promenade also offers a daily happy hour that features specialty cocktails and local and Italian wines. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 231 Arizona Ave., Santa Monica 310.451.3525 • lagosantamonica.com
JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN The JFAT family of restaurants is known for its artisanal approach to popular dishes from around the country. Certified green by the Green Restaurants Association, Jimmy’s strives to use locally raised, organic and sustainable ingredients and has partnered with the Long Beach Aquarium-based “Seafood for the Future” program. Enjoy brews, cocktails and wines at the bar before indulging in menu highlights such as buttermilk fried chicken with thyme gravy or spicy tequila shrimp pasta with green chili pesto cream, charred corn and pepitas inside or on the covered patio. Jimmy’s also offers a weekday happy hour and weekend Champagne brunch. The new Santa Monica location is located just a few blocks from the pier. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1733 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica 424.292.5222 • j-fat.com
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
MENU HIGHLIGHTS Shared Plates Grilled Octopus Braised pork belly Scallop Crudo Lamb Kefta Duck Confit Portobello Tart
ESTÉREL RESTAURANT Welcome to the South of France! Located in the Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, the beautiful Provence-inspired Estérel Restaurant boasts a range of dining settings in which to enjoy Executive Chef Pete Manfredini’s seasonally driven cuisine. Taking inspiration in the traditional French Gastronomy as well as his Italian background, he takes classics and revisit them with the modernism and boldness of the unique California touch, focusing on organic and local grown ingredients. In the openplan main dining room, high-backed booths and deep blue walls create a sophisticated atmosphere, and an exhibition kitchen with a woodburning oven provides a show. Guests can sip an fresh aperitif outdoor in Le Jardin at Estérel, a Provençal garden patio with colorful seating ideal for alfresco afternoon and evening dining. The Aviary, private part of the patio, is ideal for intimate cocktail parties or sit-down dinners for 20 to 50 guests, along with two private dining rooms. And continue the night at Riviera 31, Sofitel Los Angeles’ famous bar lounge, for exclusive mixology cocktails and daily live performances! B,L,D (daily); Br (Su).
Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, 8555 Beverly Blvd., L.A.
310.358.3979 esterelrestaurant.com
Plates Endive and Apple Salad Duck Confit Pizza Seafood Risotto Spiced Crust Tuna Spring Lamb Rack Le Jardin Burger
THE GUIDE SPECIAL EVENTS ICE AT SANTA MONICA Opening Nov. 1 This 8,000-square-foot outdoor skating rink in downtown Santa Monica brings holiday spirit to the beach. M-Th 2-10 pm; F 2 pm-midnight; Sa 10 am-midnight; Su 10 am-10 pm. Admission, including skate rental, $15. Corner of 5th Street and Arizona Avenue, Santa Monica, 310.260.1199, downtownsm.com Map L8
AFI FEST Nov. 9-16 Presented by Audi, the American Film Institute’s annual film festival offers screenings and events in the heart of Hollywood. Highlights this year include a Robert Altman retrospective. Tickets available online or at box office. Screenings free. See website for schedule and pass pricing. TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd.; TCL Chinese 6 Theatres, Hollywood & Highland, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Third Floor; Egyptian Theatre, 6712 Hollywood Blvd.; The Hollywood Roosevelt, 7000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 866.234.3378, afi.com/afifest Map H13 L.A. COMEDY FEST Nov. 9-19 Featuring film, live comedy acts and a screenplay competition, this showcase attracts up-and-comers and established comics alike. Check website for schedule and ticket information. Let Live Theatre, 916 N. Formosa Ave., L.A., lacomedyfest.com Map I13 HOLIDAY ICE RINK PERSHING SQUARE Opening Nov. 9 Skate among the skyscrapers at this ice-skating rink, presented by Bai, which materializes every holiday season at Pershing Square. See website for hours, prices and skate-session schedule. 532 S. Olive St., downtown, holidayicerinkdowntownla.com Map I16 TURKEY TROT LOS ANGELES Nov. 23 Spend Thanksgiving morning in downtown L.A., taking in a scenic 5K or 10K route through the area’s historic streets. The race starts at City Hall and takes runners past Grand Park and Walt Disney Concert Hall. There is also a Widdle Wobble 1K for kids. Proceeds benefit charity the Midnight Mission. 5K 8 am; 10K 8:45 am; Widdle Wobble 10 am. $20-$60. 200 N. Spring St., downtown, 310.821.7898, turkeytrot.la Map H17 THE HOLLYWOOD CHRISTMAS PARADE Nov. 26 Welcome the holidays at this 86th annual holiday parade, with a concert beforehand. The parade winds through Hollywood and features floats, balloons, characters, marching bands and equestrians. Concert 5 pm; parade 6 pm. Grandstand tickets $32-$85. The route starts on Hollywood Boulevard at Orange Drive and travels east to Vine Street, south on Vine to Sunset Boulevard and west on Sunset, back to Orange. 866.727.2331, thehollywoodchristmasparade.org Map H13
THEATER
COURTESY GRAND AVENUE ARTS
SPAMILTON: AN AMERICAN PARODY Opening Nov. 5 Can’t score tickets to Hamilton (below)? This play, touted by the New York Post as the “next best thing to seeing Hamilton,” is a hilarious parody of the musical from the comedic force behind the long-running hit Forbidden Broadway. Kirk Douglas Theatre, 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 213.628.2772 Map L11 CHASING MEM’RIES: A DIFFERENT KIND OF MUSICAL Opening Nov. 7 Tyne Daly and Robert Forster star in this touching play—having its world premiere here—with songs written by legendary lyricists Alan and Marilyn Bergman. Gil Cates Theater, Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., Westwood, 310.208.5454 Map J10 TURN ME LOOSE Through Nov. 12 This play about late comic genius Dick Gregory, presented in association with John Legend, sees Scandal’s Joe Morton portraying the stand-up comic and civil-rights activist. Wallis
/ ENTERTAINMENT
GUIDELINES Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps in the back of this issue. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
INDEX Special Events ............. 65 Studio Tapings ............. 66 Theater ........................ 65 Museums ..................... 66 Music + Dance............. 65 Shopping Destinations .. 70 Sports .......................... 66 Nightlife ....................... 72 Attractions ................... 66 Tours + Transport........ 74 Studio Tours ................ 66
Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.746.4000 Map I11 BRIGHT STAR Through Nov. 19 The Broadway musical written and composed by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell follows a literary editor who finds a connection with a young soldier coming home from World War II—awakening her longing for the child she once lost. Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772 Map H16 SOMETHING ROTTEN! Opening Nov. 21 This funny, irreverent ode to musicals tells the story of two brothers in the 1590s who try to outshine the Bard by writing the very first musical. Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772 Map H16 HAMILTON All month The national tour of the Broadway hit brings its brilliant raps about Founding Father Alexander Hamilton (played by Michael Luwoye) to the Pantages stage. Hollywood Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.468.1770 Map H13
MUSIC + DANCE CENTER FOR THE ART OF PERFORMANCE AT UCLA Nov. 2-3 Dancenorth/Lucy Guerin Inc.: Attractor. Nov. 4 OK Go. Nov. 11 AteNine: Calling Glenn. Nov. 17-18 William Kentridge: Refuse the Hour. Nov. 30 Zadie Smith & Michael Chabon: A Conversation. Royce Hall, UCLA, 405 Hilgard Ave., Westwood, 310.825.2101, cap.ucla.edu Map J10
DOROTHY CHANDLER PAVILION Nov. 2, 5, 8, 11, 19 L.A. Opera, Nabucco, conductor James Conlon, starring Plácido Domingo. In Italian with projected English translations. Nov. 17 Plácido Domingo 50th Anniversary Concert, featuring conductor James Conlon, L.A. Opera Orchestra. 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.7211 Map H16 DOLBY THEATRE Nov. 1 Ricky Gervais. Nov. 15 So You Think You Can Dance. Nov. 17 The Hip Hop Nutcracker. Nov. 18 Shopkins Live! Shop It Up! Nov. 19 Gevorkian Dance Academy. Nov. 25 Reik. Nov. 29-30 Chris Rock. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.308.6300 Map H13 THE FORUM Nov. 3 Halsey with special guests PartyNextDoor and Charli XCX. Nov. 4 Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band with special guest Nancy Wilson of Heart. Nov. 7-8, 10-11 Bruno Mars. Nov. 12 Ana Gabriel. Nov. 17 Fall Out Boy. Nov. 18 Real 92.3 The Real Show, featuring J. Cole, French Montana, Yo Gotti and more. Nov. 19 Uforia Music Series Presents: K-Love Live, featuring Ricky Martin, Carlos Vives, Wisin, Carlos Rivera, Christian Nodal and more. Nov. 25, 29 Guns N’ Roses. 3900 W. Manchester Blvd., Inglewood, 310.330.7300 Map O12 HOLLYWOOD BOWL Nov. 3-4 Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory Live-to-Film, featuring John Stamos, Giancarlo Esposito, Richard Kind, Elle King, Ingrid
Grand Tour Now in its third year, Grand Ave Arts: All Access returns to Grand Avenue for a daylong culture-filled event that showcases some of the best aspects of Los Angeles’ arts scene. On Nov. 4 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., DTLA’s premier cultural institutions—including The Broad, Center Theatre Group, Colburn School, Grand Park, L.A. Central Library, L.A. Chamber Orchestra, L.A. Master Chorale, L.A. Opera, L.A. Philharmonic, MOCA, the Music Center and REDCAT—open their doors for free family-friendly activities, interactive workshops and tours, granting behind-the-scenes access to the world-class arts and cultural organizations within the five-block area of Grand between Temple and 6th streets. For a full schedule of the day’s events, visit grandavearts.tumblr.com.
W The late Tom Petty played his final concert this fall at the Hollywood Bowl (above), capping 40 years of touring with his band, the Heartbreakers. WHERE LOS ANGELES 65
ATTRACTIONS Nov. 4 Clippers vs. Memphis Grizzlies; Kings vs. Nashville Predators. Nov. 5 Clippers vs. Miami Heat; Lakers vs. Memphis Grizzlies. Nov. 9 Kings vs. Tampa Bay Lightning. Nov. 12 Kings vs. San Jose Sharks. Nov. 13 Clippers vs. Philadelphia 76ers. Nov. 14 Kings vs. Vancouver Canucks. Nov. 15 Lakers vs. Philadelphia 76ers. Nov. 16 Kings vs. Boston Bruins. Nov. 17 Lakers vs. Phoenix Suns. Nov. 18 Kings vs. Florida Panthers. Nov. 19 Lakers vs. Denver Nuggets. Nov. 21 Lakers vs. Chicago Bulls. Nov. 22 Kings vs. Winnipeg Jets. Nov. 25 Kings vs. Anaheim Ducks. Nov. 27 Clippers vs. Lakers. Nov. 29 Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors. Nov. 30 Clippers vs. Utah Jazz. 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.742.7100 Map I15
ATTRACTIONS AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC Focus is on Pacific Ocean sea life. Touch the ocean’s predators in Shark Lagoon and the jellies in the Wonders of the Deep gallery, and meet penguins, sea otters, sea lions and 11,000 other animals. Daily 9 am-6 pm. $17.95-$29.95, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map O16
Michaelson, Finn Wolfhard and ”Weird Al” Yankovic. Nov. 9 Pete Tong Presents Ibiza Classics. Nov. 10-11 Morrissey with special guest Billy Idol. 2301 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.850.2000 Map G13 STAPLES CENTER Nov. 7-8, 10 Katy Perry. Nov. 24 Guns N’ Roses. 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.742.7100 Map I15 THE THEATRE AT ACE HOTEL Nov. 6 Los Angeles Times Ideas Exchange presents: John Hodgman. Nov. 8 Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein (S U R V I V E) performing the music of Stranger Things. Nov. 9 KCRW’s Left, Right & Center Live. Nov. 10 CAP UCLA presents: Jason Moran—In My Mind: Monk at Town Hall 1959. Nov. 11 Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra presents: LACO @ the Movies—Buster Keaton’s The General. Nov. 15 Butterfly Buzz proudly presents: Yasmin Levy—Los Angeles with Special Guests. Nov. 18 KPCC In Person presents: Seven Things I’ve Learned—An Evening With Ira Glass. Nov. 19 Ibeyi. Nov. 29 Pink Martini. 929 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.623.3233 Map I16 WALLIS ANNENBERG CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Nov. 2-4 L.A. Dance Project: Fall Program, featuring artistic director Benjamin Millepied. Nov. 10-11 Kyle Riabko: Richard Rodgers Reimagined. 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.746.4000 Map I11 WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL Nov. 1 Mariinsky Orchestra, conductor Valery Gergiev, pianist Denis Matsuev. Nov. 2-5 A Midsummer Night’s Dream, featuring Los Angeles Philharmonic, conductor Susanna Mälkki, Women of the Los Angeles Master Chorale, artistic director Grant Gershon. Nov. 7 Les Arts Florissants, conductor William Christie. Nov. 8 Music 101 With Classical KUSC’s Alan Chapman. Nov. 9-11 Dutoit Conducts Ravel, featuring L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Charles Dutoit, pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet. Nov. 12 War of the Worlds, featuring L.A. Phil New Music Group, conductor Christopher Rountree, director Yuval Sharon. Nov. 14 Chamber Music From France. Nov. 16-17, 19 Bach & Pergolesi, featuring L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Emmanuelle Haïm, soprano Laura Claycomb, countertenor Christophe Dumaux. Nov. 18 Noon to Midnight: A Day of New Music, featuring L.A. Phil New Music Group, conductor Christopher Rountree, Yuval Sharon. Nov. 24-26 West Side Story, featuring L.A. Philharmonic, conductor David Newman. 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 323.850.2000 Map H16
SPORTS LOS ANGELES MEMORIAL COLISEUM Nov. 12 Los Angeles Rams vs. Houston Texans. Nov. 26 Rams vs. New Orleans Saints. 3911 S. Figueroa St., Exposition Park, L.A., 213.747.7111 Map K15 STAPLES CENTER Nov. 1 Los Angeles Clippers vs. Dallas Mavericks. Nov. 2 Los Angeles Kings vs. Toronto Maple Leafs. Nov. 3 Los Angeles Lakers vs. Brooklyn Nets.
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DISNEYLAND Mickey Mouse’s theme park. Attractions include Pirates of the Caribbean and updated Star Tours. Disney California Adventure is adjacent. Call for hours. $97-$124, under 3 free. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map D6 GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY Iconic attraction with spectacular views of L.A. and the Hollywood sign. Hourly shows at planetarium. Tu-F noon-10 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-10 pm. Admission free; planetarium shows $3-$7, under 5 free. 2800 E. Observatory Road, Griffith Park, L.A., 213.473.0800 Map U23 IFLY HOLLYWOOD “Indoor skydiving” via a vertical wind tunnel. Check iflyworld.com/hollywood for hours. $59.95-$99.95. Universal CityWalk, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.985.4359 Map G13 L.A. ZOO AND BOTANICAL GARDENS Home to more than 250 animal species, many of them endangered, living among immersive habitats and lush gardens. Highlights include the Rainforest of the Americas exhibit. Daily 10 am-5 pm. Ticket sales cease one hour before closing. $15-$20, under 2 free. 5333 Zoo Drive, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.644.4200 Map T23 LEGOLAND Resort features more than 60 rides, shows and attractions, Sea Life Aquarium, Legoland Water Park and Legoland Hotel. New Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens Miniland model display. See legoland.com for hours, ticket packages. Parking $17-$25. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.5346 ORIGINAL FARMERS MARKET Local landmark with 120 produce stalls, restaurants and gift shops in open-air setting. Adjacent to the Grove shopping center. 6333 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.933.9211 Map I13 OUE SKYSPACE L.A. California’s tallest open-air observation deck, at nearly 1,000 feet above the city, boasts 360-degree views and a 45-foot-long glass “Skyslide” from the 70th to the 69th floor. 633 W. 5th St., downtown, 213.894.9000 Map I16 REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM Visit the Air Force One Pavilion and see a full-size replica of the White House Oval Office. Ticket prices include admission to Titanic at the Reagan Library (through Jan. 7, 2018). Daily 10 am-5 pm. $16$29, under 2 free. 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, 800.410.8354 Map northwest of A1 QUEEN MARY Historic ocean liner permanently berthed in Long Beach Harbor. Tours, shops, hotel, art deco lounge, a 4-D theater and restaurants. Check queenmary.com for hours and prices. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 877.342.0738 Map O16 SEAWORLD The 189-acre adventure park features thousands of marine animals including fish, reptiles and
birds. New Orca Encounter show. Open daily; call for hours, ticket packages and discounts. $88.99-$94.99, under 3 free. Parking $17-$30. 500 SeaWorld Drive, San Diego, 619.222.4732 UNIVERSAL CITYWALK Dining, shopping and entertainment promenade includes new dining options such as Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Dongpo Kitchen, LudoBird and Voodoo Doughnut; clothing boutiques and novelty stores; a state-of-the-art Universal Cinema and Imax theater; and simulated skydiving wind tunnel iFly Hollywood. Call for hours. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.4455 Map U20 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD Movie-based theme park. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and The Walking Dead Attraction are popular recent additions. Other attractions include Transformers: The Ride 3-D; Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem and adjacent Super Silly Fun Land; and the Simpsons Ride and its immersive environment, Springfield. Studio Tour includes Peter Jackson’s King Kong 360 3-D, film and TV sets and the Fast & Furious—Supercharged hydraulic motion-based thrill ride. Call or check universalstudioshollywood.com for hours and prices. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 800.864.8377 Map U20
STUDIO TOURS PARAMOUNT PICTURES STUDIO TOUR Two-hour group tour of Hollywood’s longest-operating and only remaining major studio. Reservations recommended. Tours daily (except some holidays) every half-hour 9:30 am-3 pm. $58; VIP tour $178, under 10 not admitted. 2.5-hour After Dark Tour every 15 minutes F-Sa 7:30-8 pm. $78, under 12 not admitted. 5515 Melrose Ave., Hollywood, 323.956.1777 Map I14 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD Legendary studio tour (also see listing under “Attractions”). VIP Experience includes front-of-line privileges, gourmet lunch and other perks. For hours and prices, call or check universalstudioshollywood.com. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.3801 Map U20 WARNER BROS. STUDIO TOUR HOLLYWOOD Three-hour tour of working TV and film studio includes backlots, prop warehouse, Stage 48: Script to Screen interactive soundstage, the real Central Perk set, original Batmobiles and observation of filming (when possible). The Harry Potter & Fantastic Beasts exhibit is new. Deluxe tour available. Reservations recommended; photo ID required. Daily 8:30 am-4 pm. $55-$68, under 8 not admitted. Parking $12. 3400 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank, 877.492.8687 Map U20
STUDIO TAPINGS 1IOTA Free tickets to live tapings of TV shows including Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Late Late Show With James Corden, The Voice and The Talk, as well as special events. Minimum age 16-18, varies by show. 323.417.6550, 1iota.com AUDIENCES UNLIMITED Free tickets to live tapings of TV shows on CBS, Fox, NBC, Netflix and the CW that are produced in the L.A. area, such as The Big Bang Theory and Fuller House. Minimum age 10-18, varies by show. 818.260.0041, ext. 1, tvtickets.com ON-CAMERA AUDIENCES Free tickets to live tapings of TV shows including America’s Got Talent, Dancing With the Stars and The Price Is Right. Minimum age 12-18, varies by show. 818.295.2700, mytvtickets.com
MUSEUMS THE ANNENBERG SPACE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY Cultural venue dedicated to digital and print photography. W-Su 11 am-6 pm. Free. Parking $3.50, $1 after 4:30 pm and all day Sa-Su. 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Century City, 213.403.3000 Map J11
COURTESY L.A. DANCE PROJECT
L.A. Dance Project. See listing for the Wallis below.
At SeaWorld® San Diego, your family will find more than a vacation – they’ll find true inspiration. Get up close with sea life, soar on pulse-pounding rides and be wowed by amazing shows. Little adventurers will love the one-of-a-kind OCEAN EXPLORER® children’s land. Experience the new ORCA ENCOUNTERTM, featuring killer whales’ incredible natural behaviors. Plus, your visit helps support SeaWorld’s animal rescue and conservation efforts. © 2017 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.
ATTRACTIONS
WORLD PREMIERE - NOW OPEN
AUTRY MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN WEST Museum explores the art, history and cultures of the American West. Houses one of the top U.S. collections of Native American materials. Tu-F 10 am-4 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-5 pm. $6-$14, under 3 free. 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.667.2000 Map H14 THE BROAD Museum built by philanthropists and art collectors Eli and Edythe Broad contains more than 2,000 works of contemporary art. Tu-W 11 am-5 pm; Th-F 11 am-8 pm; Sa 10 am-8 pm; Su 10 am-6 pm. See thebroad.org for special-exhibition ticket prices and extended hours. Free. Online reservations encouraged. 221 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.232.6200 Map H16
REAL STORIES. REAL ARTIFACTS. REAL PEOPLE.
GETTY CENTER Travertine-clad hilltop facility houses collections of paintings, drawings, antiquities, photographs and decorative arts. Fabulous Central Garden and city views. Tu-F, Su 10 am-5:30 pm; Sa 10 am-9 pm. Free. Parking $15, $10 after 3 pm. 1200 Getty Center Drive, L.A., 310.440.7300 Map H9 GETTY VILLA Getty Center’s exquisite coastal counterpart features Etruscan, Roman and Greek antiquities. W-M 10 am-5 pm. Free. Parking $15, $10 after 3 pm. Advance timed tickets required for entry. 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades, 310.440.7300 Map K7 GRAMMY MUSEUM Museum on L.A. Live campus explores music, the creative and recording processes and Grammy Awards history. M-F 10:30 am-6:30 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-6:30 pm. $10.95-$12.95, under 6 free. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.765.6800 Map I15 HAMMER MUSEUM UCLA-affiliated museum presents influential traveling shows and installations alongside its permanent collection. Tu-F 11 am-8 pm; Sa-Su 11 am-5 pm. Free. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Westwood, 310.443.7000 Map J10 HOLLYWOOD MUSEUM In the historic Max Factor Building, steps from the Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Museum houses 10,000 authentic showbiz treasures that showcase 100 years of Hollywood’s entertainment industry. W-Su 10 am-5 pm. $5-$15. 1660 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.464.7776 Map H13 HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART COLLECTIONS, AND BOTANICAL GARDENS Art, buildings and grounds, with a dozen themed gardens; new dining concepts; a beautiful gallery and an education and visitor center. W-M 10 am-5 pm. $13-$25, under 4 free. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, 626.405.2141 Map R21 LA BREA TAR PITS AND MUSEUM Watch paleontologists at work uncovering ice age L.A. Among the main attractions are the ever-bubbling tar pits, which make up the world’s most famous fossil-excavation site. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. $5-$12, under 3 free. 5801 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.934.7243 Map J13 LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART The largest art museum in the western U.S., with diverse, superb collections housed on a 20-acre campus. M-Tu, Th 11 am-5 pm; F 11 am-8 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-7 pm. $10-$15, under 18 free. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6000 Map J13 LOS ANGELES MUSEUM OF THE HOLOCAUST The West Coast’s largest archive of Holocaust-era documents, relics and other primary-source materials. Interactive and audiovisual exhibits include “The World That Was” touch-screen table. Sa-Th 10 am-5 pm; F 10 am-2 pm. Free. Pan Pacific Park, 100 S. The Grove Drive, L.A., 323.651.3704 Map I12 MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART Premier contemporary-art museum housed in three facilities. GC and GA: M, W, F 11 am-6 pm; Th 11 am-8 pm; Sa-Su 11 am-5 pm. PDC: Tu-F 11 am-5 pm; Sa-Su 11 am-6 pm. GA and GC: $8-$15, under 12 free; free at
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First-of-its-kind exhibition not seen anywhere else before! Experience real artifacts from the Titanic and items used in the discovery of the famed ship alongside props, sets and costumes from the blockbuster movie about the RMS Titanic! Photo Courtesy of Jonas Sejr Thomsen
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SHOPPING PDC. MOCA Grand Avenue (GA), 250 S. Grand Ave., downtown; The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA (GC), 152 N. Central Ave., downtown; MOCA Pacific Design Center (PDC), 8687 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 213.626.6222 Map H16, H17, I12 MUSEUM OF LATIN AMERICAN ART Leading museum of modern and contemporary Latin American art; Robert Gumbiner Sculpture Garden. W-Th, Sa-Su 11 am-5 pm; F 11 am-9 pm. $7-$10, under 12 free. 628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach, 562.437.1689 Map O6 MUSEUM OF TOLERANCE Exhibits on prejudice and discrimination, legacy of the Holocaust, humanrights issues and Anne Frank’s life and legacy. Su-F 10 am-5 pm. $11.50-$15.50, under 5 free. 9786 W. Pico Blvd., L.A., 310.553.8403 Map J11 NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY Thirty-three million objects, from dinosaur fossils to fish. The 3.5-acre Nature Gardens, interactive Nature Lab and Tyrannosaurus rex growth series exhibit are highlights. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. $5-$12, under 3 free. 900 Exposition Blvd., Exposition Park, L.A., 213.763.3466 Map K15
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PETERSEN AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM Recently renovated museum displays about 135 vintage cars, trucks and motorcycles in permanent and rotating exhibits. Daily 10 am-6 pm. $7-$15, under 3 free. Vault tours $20, under 10 not admitted. 6060 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.930.2277 Map J13 SKIRBALL CULTURAL CENTER Cultural venue highlights the American Jewish experience through engaging exhibitions and programs. The awardwinning Noah’s Ark attraction is great for tots. Tu-F noon-5 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-5 pm. $7-$12, under 2 free, free Thursdays. 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A., 310.440.4500 Map G9
WWW. GLAMBOUTIQUE. COM
SHOPPING DESTINATIONS THE AMERICANA AT BRAND Downtown Glendale hot spot from the creators of the Grove with a Main Street, U.S.A., atmosphere and trolley. Kate Spade and Toms are among the 90 or so stores. Dining options include Din Tai Fung and Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina. 889 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.637.8900 Map U23 BEVERLY CENTER Trendsetting mall near West Hollywood is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation. It has more than 100 boutiques (Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, True Religion concept store, Uniqlo, Cos) and is anchored by Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s. 8500 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.854.0070 Map I12 CITADEL OUTLETS Assyrian architecture south of downtown stands out along the Golden State (5) Freeway; the center offers discounted clothes from Coach, Guess, H&M, Banana Republic, Levi’s and Converse, to name just a few. 100 Citadel Drive, L.A., 323.888.1724 Map B4 THE GROVE Popular outdoor center is home to 40 shops including Apple, Brandy Melville, Nordstrom and Elizabeth and James and nine restaurants including Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill and Ladurée, all in a setting that suggests a grand old downtown. Movie theater, trolley and dancing fountain are draws. Adjacent to Original Farmers Market. 189 The Grove Drive, L.A., 888.315.8883 Map I13 SANTA MONICA PLACE Sleek outdoor mall at south end of Third Street Promenade anchored by Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. More than 80 boutiques, including Chan Luu and Barneys New York, plus a rooftop Dining Deck and ArcLight Cinemas. 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, 310.394.1049 Map L8 SOUTH COAST PLAZA High-end center in Orange County boasts nearly 300 boutiques (Bottega Veneta,
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MUSEUM OF TOLERANCE www.museumoftolerance.com
9786 west pico boulevard los angeles, ca 90035 t: 310.772.2506
NIGHTLIFE Céline, Chanel, Chloé, Gucci)) and 40 restaurants, including new Water Grill. Concierge at four locations. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map E6 THIRD STREET PROMENADE Pedestrian-only shopping zone includes shops (Anthropologie, Converse, Cotton On, Zara), kiosks and an array of entertaining street performers. 1351 Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica, 310.393.8355 Map L8 TWO RODEO Center with cobblestones in the heart of Beverly Hills features luxury boutiques including Jimmy Choo and Tiffany & Co., plus fine-art gallery Galerie Michael and restaurant 208 Rodeo. 9478 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.247.7040 Map J11 WESTFIELD AT LAX Travelers flying out of LAX can enjoy some of L.A.’s top retail and dining options curated by Westfield (Fred Segal, MAC Cosmetics, Petrossian, Porsche Design, SeaLegs Wine Bar, Spanx) in LAX’s Tom Bradley International Terminal, as well as terminals 1, 2, 3 and 6. 380 World Way, L.A., 310.646.1770, westfieldatlax.com Map O10 WESTFIELD CENTURY CITY Open-air shopping center fresh from a $1 billion revitalization has more than 175 stores, including new Compartés Chocolatier and Equipment; a Luxe AMC multiplex with Imax screen; a food-court atrium and terrace; and the West Coast’s first Eataly. 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Century City, 310.277.3898 Map J11
NIGHTLIFE 1 OAK Strikingly seductive, art-filled club from New York. 9039 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.274.2326 Map H12
LA ZOO LA ZOO LIGHTS N I 17 G –HJAN T L 7Y NIGHTLY NOV LIGHTS NOV 27–JAN 3
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for WHERE Magazine readers!
THE ABBEY David Cooley’s world-famous gay bar and nightclub. Newer concept the Chapel at the Abbey is adjacent. 692 N. Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.289.8410 Map H12 BREAK ROOM 86 1980s-style bar inside the Line Hotel with karaoke suites and live entertainment (Breakdancing? Moonwalking? Check and check). 630 S. Ardmore Ave., L.A., 213.368.3056 Map west of H15 THE BUNGALOW Seaside cottage-style nightspot with gourmet bites by Fig Restaurant. The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, 101 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.899.8530 Map L8 COVELL Intimate Los Feliz neighborhood wine bar. 4628 Hollywood Blvd., L.A., 323.660.4400 Map W23 DOHENY ROOM Stylish art deco-style bar and lounge from the SBE Group offers a diverse menu by Cleo chef Danny Elmaleh. 9077 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.777.0266 Map H12 HARLOWE Spacious, vintage-glam restaurant and bar from the 1933 Group. 721 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.876.5839 Map H13 LA DESCARGA Cuban-inspired rum bar. Live band and dance performances. Reservations recommended. Upscale dress code. 1159 N. Western Ave., L.A., 323.466.1324 Map east of H14 MELROSE UMBRELLA CO. Rustic-chic space with creative cocktails and inventive fare. 7465 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.951.0709 Map I12 PERCH Open-air roost in a historic building; indoor cabaret lounge Bar Thirteen is underneath. 448 S. Hill St., downtown, 213.802.1770 Map I16 SEVEN GRAND Whiskey bar with tongue-in-cheek hunt-club decor. Intimate Bar Jackalope hidden in the back features more than 120 premium whiskeys. 515 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.614.0737 Map I16
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D O D G ER STADI UM TOU RS
EXC L U SI V E BEHI ND THE SCEN E S ACCE S S
Trophy Gallery
Dodger Dugout
Vin Scully Press Box
BOO K O N LI N E AT DO D G E R S .C OM/ TO U R S O R C A LL 8 6 6 - DO D G E R S
TOURS + TRANSPORT
“The Official Museum of Hollywood”
THE SPARE ROOM Gaming parlor and cocktail lounge with bowling lanes and fancy drinks. Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, 7000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.769.7296 Map H13 WHISKY A GO GO Legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Famer still rocks. 8901 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.652.4202 Map H12
-Hollywood’s Honorary Mayor, Johnny Grant
IN THE HISTORIC MAX FACTOR BUILDING
TOURS + TRANSPORT AMTRAK Train and bus service within the county, along the coast and to major California locations, with nationwide connections. 800.872.7245, amtrak.com BEVERLY HILLS RENT-A-CAR Luxury and exotic rentals. 9732 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.274.6969; 6085 Venice Blvd., Hollywood, 310.659.5555; LAX, 9220 S. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A., 310.670.2020, bhrentacar.com Map K12, J11, O10 CATALINA EXPRESS Year-round boat service to Catalina Island. Up to 30 daily departures from Long Beach, Dana Point, San Pedro. Reservations recommended. Ride Free on Your Birthday program. Call or check website for hours and prices. 800.481.3470, catalinaexpress.com DODGER STADIUM TOUR Behind-the-scenes tour of the legendary stadium allows guests to visit the field and the dugout, walk through the Vin Scully Press Box and more. $15-$20, under 4 free. 1000 Vin Scully Ave., L.A., 866.363.4377 Map G17 HORNBLOWER CRUISES & EVENTS Dine, dance and take in beautiful harbor views aboard one of Hornblower’s cruises. Choose from dinner and Champagne brunch options. Fisherman’s Village, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, 888.467.6256, hornblower.com Map O9 METRO City bus, light rail and subway. Rail lines connect downtown, Hollywood, Pasadena, Long Beach; underground Red Line from Union Station through Hollywood to San Fernando Valley; Gold Line from Union Station to East L.A. and through Pasadena to Azusa; Blue Line from downtown to Long Beach; Green Line from Norwalk to Redondo Beach; Expo Line from Santa Monica to downtown. 323.466.3876, metro.net METROLINK Regional train system connects Los Angeles County with Ventura, Orange and San Diego counties. Six of seven Metrolink rail lines (including the Orange County lines, San Bernardino lines and Ventura County lines) begin at Union Station in downtown Los Angeles. 800.371.5465, metrolinktrains.com STARLINE TOURS Celebrity-tour company offers Movie Stars’ Homes tours throughout the day. Its large repertoire also includes tours to beaches, theme parks, San Diego and more. The CitySightseeing double-decker hop-on, hop-off tour makes more than 70 stops around L.A. Prices vary. Tours begin at TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 800.959.3131, starlinetours.com Map H13 TMZ CELEBRITY TOUR, HOLLYWOOD Two-hour bus tour highlights celebrity hot spots in Hollywood, Beverly Hills and on the Sunset Strip, brought to life with videos from TMZ’s on-air stories and the occasional star sighting. See website for pickup locations, hours and prices. 844.TMZ.TOUR (869.8687), tmztour.com
where? LOG ON ANYWHERE. SOCALPULSE.COM
Milton Greene Photograph, 1953 © 2013 The Hollywood Museum
SEE 10,000 AUTHENTIC SHOWBIZ TREASURES SHOWCASING 100 YEARS OF HOLLYWOOD!
The most extensive collection of costumes, props, posters, and photographs in the world!
SPECIAL EXHIBITS
Marilyn Monroe - The Exhibit 100 Years of Favorite - Films & TV Shows Real to Reel: Portrayals and Perceptions of LGBTQs in Hollywood Jean Harlow: The Original Hollywood Blonde Bombshell Celebrating the Emmys...Best of TV
Open: Wed. - Sun. 10am-5pm “#1 Hollywood Tourist Attraction” –LA Weekly “One of LA’s Top 10 Museums” –LA Tourism and Convention Board “Certificate of Excellence” –Trip Advisor 1660 North Highland Avenue at Hollywood Boulevard Hollywood, California 90028 323.464.7776 www.TheHollywoodMuseum.com
The only upscale boutique in greater Los Angeles for women size 12 and up. From comfortable to casual or dressy— classic to funky or fun: Abundance has it all! 13604 Ventura Blvd. Sherman Oaks
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STARLINE TOURS HOLLYWOOD TERMINAL LOCATED AT TCL CHINESE THEATRE 6925 HOLLYWOOD BOULEVARD, HOLLYWOOD 90028 SANTA MONICA TERMINAL IS AT 1434 2ND ST., SANTA MONICA 90401
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Frozen hot chocolate at Westfield Century City’s new Compartés Chocolatier. p. 8
Natural wines and sour beers at Bar Bandini in Echo Park. barbandini.com
Girl power at Street Food Cinema’s screening of Wonder Woman, Nov. 4 at Pan Pacific Park. streetfoodcinema.com
The Benjamin Millepied-led L.A. Dance Project’s new residency at the Wallis. p. 66
L.A. designer Jenni Kayne’s simple yet sumptuous new home collection. 310.860.0123 Facials at Pixi’s first-ever Glow Spa, on Abbot Kinney Boulevard. 424.744.8879 Grand Park’s Downtown Día de los Muertos: Altars + Art celebration, through Nov. 5. grandparkla.org
The Black Label Oval Rose Signet ring at Vrai & Oro’s new Row DTLA shop. 213.537.1217 The California Science Center’s new, cutting-edge Imax laser projection system. 213.744.7400 Kesha playing the Hollywood Palladium on Nov. 1. thehollywoodpalladium.com
Circle V, a vegan-food and music event, Nov. 18 at the Regent. circlev.com
Taking Shape: Degas as Sculptor, opening Nov. 10 at the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena. 626.449.6840
The cult British hair-care line Windle & Moodie, available at A-list eco-friendly salon Loft 647. 424.335.0322
Porto’s pastries at the Annenberg Space for Photography’s Doña Dulce café, complementing the Cuba Is show. p. 66
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WHERE is an international network of magazines first published in 1936 and distributed in 4,000 leading hotels in more than 50 places around the world. Look for us when you visit any of the following cities, or plan ahead for your next trip by visiting us online at wheretraveler.com UNITED STATES Alaska, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Georgia, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, Minneapolis/St. Paul,
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The Quita Calzón cocktail, with El Silencio mezcal, gooseberry, coconut water and lime, at Rosaliné. p. 10 Premium steaks at InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown’s La Boucherie on 71. p. 19 Black Friday deals at Citadel Outlets’ Moonlight Madness on Thanksgiving night. p. 70 Glitz, glam and tater tots at Mama Lion in Koreatown. p. 14 The Burbank Winter Wine Walk and street fair, Nov. 18 on San Fernando Boulevard. burbankwinterwinewalk.com Broccoli toast at Kismet in Los Feliz. 323.409.0404 Musso & Frank’s bucket-listworthy classic martinis. p. 61 Spotting migrating gray whales on a tour with Marina del Rey Sportfishing. mdrsf.net
27 Attending a taping of Jimmy Kimmel Live! in Hollywood with tickets from 1iota. p. 66 Autumnal cocktails at cozy, hip Westbound in downtown’s Arts District. 213.262.9291 Spicy wings at Burbank’s new Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken. 747.231.3990 Sunset drinks at The Highlight Room atop Hollywood’s Dream Hotel. p. 19 Ethical, cool and madein-DTLA Comunity shoes. comunitymade.com The Martín Ramírez exhibit at the new Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles downtown. 213.928.0822 Hamilton at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre ... p. 65 ... and Spamilton at the Kirk Douglas Theatre. p. 65
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