where GUESTBOOK
LOS ANGELES
where GUESTBOOK
LOS ANGELES
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WELCOME TO LOS ANGELES
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G A L E R I E MICHAEL Buildin g Mu s e u m Q u ality Colle c tion s O n e Work at a T im e Est abli she d i n Be v e r ly H i lls, 1980
224 North Rodeo Drive Via Rodeo Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Tel: 3 10 . 2 73 . 3 3 77 Fax : 3 10 . 2 73 . 0 879 art@galeriemichael.com
www.galeriemichael.com Extensive Permanent Collection and Special Exhibitions On View in Over Twelve Thousand Square Feet of Gallery Space
Portrait de Jeune Fille, d'apres Cranach le Jeune. II., 1958. Pablo Picasso (1881-1973). Color linocut on paper. A rare and unique impression signed and dated by the artist. At the age of 72 Picasso revitalized the medium of linoleum cutting. Inspired by a postcard sent from Germany, "Portrait de Jeune Fille d'apres Cranach le Jeune" served as the initial work on the theme, followed days later by this second composition, which remains today one of the most important works in this medium. Picasso utilized a total of five separate linoleum plates in ochre, yellow, red, blue and black. Shortly thereafter, Picasso began to use just one plate for his color linocuts. This is one of the most important prints from Picasso's entire graphic production. Bloch 859, Baer 1053.B.i. 25 1/8 x 21 inches.
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Rembrandt Durer Monet Degas Corot Pissarro
Picasso Miró Chagall Dalí Renoir Cassatt
Raffaelli Breton Daubigny L’Hermitte Diaz de la Peña Jacque
And Representing an Important Group of Contemporary Artists.
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Pyrrha W
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8315 West 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90048
323-424-4807 pyrrha.com
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L.a. essence 28 TIm’S VIEW TIm STREET-PORTER L.A.’s most prominent architecture photographer captures the city’s most distinctive structures.
44 HOllYWOOD FAIRY TAlE
36 AlmOST FAmOUS CATCHING THE lImElIGHT One woman timidly goes where many Angelenos have gone before: to claim her 15 minutes.
BY SUZANNE ENNIS
mISSION TO mARS The minds at Jet Propulsion Laboratory in La Cañada Flintridge are rock stars in their field.
BY jESSICA RADlOFF
BY jOSEPH lemOYNE
A sleek, contemporary Hollywood Hills perch illustrates the cachet of the famous “bird streets.”
38 PIECES OF HISTORY VINTAGE FASHION The common thread among L.A.’s most stylish is their love of upscale vintage emporiums.
GINNIFER GOODWIN Once Upon a Time’s Snow White is a charming Southern belle with a storybook L.A. life.
46 NESTING IN THE HIllS HERE IN BlUE jAY WAY
BY SUZANNE ENNIS
BY ROGER GRODY
52 POOl TOGETHER
54 OUT OF THIS WORlD
REmEmBERING lIZ TAYlOR In an excerpt from her Shockaholic, Carrie Fisher recalls ex-stepmother Elizabeth Taylor’s splashy return to her life.
58 FOOD INK
CHEFS WITH TATTOOS Chefs leaving their mark on the L.A. culinary scene turn to body art for creative expression. BY ROGER GRODY
COVER: CHRIS BURDEN'S URBAN LIGHT, EDWIN SANTIAGO. OPENING SPREAD: GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY, ASHOK SINHA. THIS PAGE, FROm lEFT: TIm STREET-PORTER; CARIN KRASNER; mICHAEl lAmONT
CONTENTS
6 W H E R E G U E S T B O O K
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COnTEnTS
l.a. essentials
mUST-SEE aTTRaCTiOnS Get glimpses of the city-defining destinations that captivate locals and visitors alike.
66 nEiGHBORHOOdS CiTY GUidES Los Angeles County comprises many cities and communities, from Santa Monica to Silver Lake, from the San Fernando Valley to South Bay.
75 SPEndinG TimE SHOPPinG
99 CHOW TimE dininG
76 lOOK BOOK See what’s in store at some of the area’s finest retailers. 82 RETail dETailS Here’s a look at the region’s major shopping destinations and a selection of stores, boutiques and galleries.
Hungry? Check out our guide to the best restaurants in the county.
113 PlaY TimE aTTRaCTiOnS Get out! The best things to do and see in L.A.: studio tours, theme parks, the arts, sports, nightlife and more.
»ExPlORE l.a. WiTH THE fREE WHERE usa aPP
fROm lEfT: Ed andERSOn; naSa/JPl-CalTECH; niCK SPRinGETT
12 fiRST lOOK
8 W H E R E G U E S T B O O K
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where GUESTBOOK
OSKA Pasadena 13 Douglas Alley T 626 720 2147
LOS ANGELES
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ON THE WEB: WHERELA.COM
PUBLISHER Jeff Levy EDITOR Katie McCarthy ART DIRECTOR Carol Wakano
OSKA Beverly Hills 9693 Wilshire Boulevard www.oska-beverlyhills.com
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
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Dale Berman, Sarah Hadley, Carin Krasner, Edwin Santiago, Ashok Sinha, Christopher Ian Smith, Ian White ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Krishna Gil, Sara Kemp, Mali Mochow, Kerry Brewer, April Driggers, Heather Howard-Heintz, Joanna McLean SENIOR CIRCULATION AND SPECIAL EVENTS MANAGER Christine PRODUCTION MANAGER Dawn Kiko Cheng WEB EDITOR Christina Xenos
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3679 MOTOR AVE., SUITE 300 LOS ANGELES, CA 90034 PHONE: 310.280.2880 FAX: 310.280.2890 EMAIL ADVERTISING/BUSINESS JLevy@SoCalMedia.com EDITORIAL Katie.McCarthy@SoCalMedia.com ART Art@SoCalMedia.com PRODUCTION Ads@SoCalMedia.com CIRCULATION Christine.Noriega@SoCalMedia.com Where GuestBook® publishes editions for the following U.S. cities and regions: Arizona, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Colorado, Dallas, Florida Gold Coast (Fort Lauderdale & Palm Beach), Fort Worth, Hawaii (the Big Island), Houston, Jacksonville/St. Augustine/Amelia Island, Kansas City, Kaua’i, Los Angeles, Maui, Miami, Milwaukee, New Orleans, New York, Northern Arizona, O’ahu, Orange County, Orlando/Winter Park, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill, Tampa Bay, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle/Tacoma, Southwest Florida (Naples), Tennessee (Nashville & Memphis), Tucson and Washington, D.C.
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Copyright© 2013 by Southern California Media Group. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, in whole or in part, without the express prior written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility to any party for the content of any advertisement in this publication, including any errors and omissions therein. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement.
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contRIBUTORS s s
ROGER GRODY • Nesting in the Hills, page 46 • Food Ink, page 58 Pasadena-based Roger Grody writes for Westways, Fodor’s travel guides and GuestBook’s sister magazine, Where. You might find this foodie at an off-the-radar sushi bar or hunting down a taco truck. The former city planner also documents L.A.’s architecture.
JESSICA ss RADLOFF
ss EDWIN SANTIAGO
• Hollywood Fairy Tale, page 44 Radloff has had internships on The Tonight Show and The Young and the Restless and played a role on the Oxygen sitcom Campus Ladies, so her entertainment-industry chops come in handy when interviewing celebs such as Ginnifer Goodwin. The St. Louis native writes for Glamour, Modern Luxury Media and AOL.
• Photos in First Look, page 12, and elsewhere Santiago travels 30 times a year, and whether it’s by car, plane, boat, rickshaw or elephant, his camera is always at hand. His photographs appear regularly in publications in the U.S., Canada, Brazil, United Kingdom, Hong Kong and his native Philippines as well as on billboards around L.A.
s s
DALE BERMAN • Food Ink, page 58 While studying photography at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, Berman discovered a talent for making subjects feel at ease in front of the lens, such as the impressively tattooed chefs he shot for Food Ink. Berman’s work has appeared in People and the Los Angeles Times Magazine and on NBC.
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firstlook
FROM iCOniC BEACHES TO WORLd-CLASS ARTS VEnUES TO CUTTinG-EdGE BOUTiQUES, LOS AnGELES HAS iT ALL. WE CHERRY-PiCK THE TOP ATTRACTiOnS FROM THE COUnTY’S diVERSE BOUnTY.
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The Beaches
Conjure Gidget riding the waves off Malibu, Baywatch lifeguards on patrol, or the dramatic final scene of Planet of the Apes and you notice that some of pop culture’s most indelible images are set against a backdrop of L.A.’s sandy shores. That celebrated coastline stretches 72 miles from the rugged Malibu/Ventura border down to Long Beach, with more than 25 miles of beaches in between offering volleyball, swimming, windsurfing, bike paths and more. Among the most famous are Malibu Surfrider Beach, Venice Beach and Santa Monica State Beach, home to the Annenberg Community Beach House and a historic attraction-packed pier.
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The Huntington
Angelenos often boast of being able to visit the mountains and the beach in a single day. In fact, they can explore a jungle and a desert, too, thanks to the expansive Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino. With 120 landscaped acres and more than a dozen themed gardens, the center’s grounds alone are a must-see attraction, but there’s more. Also on-site are the Beaux-Arts-style Huntington Art Gallery (former residence of the center’s founders, railroad magnate Henry E. Huntington and his wife, Arabella), the Virginia Steele Scott Galleries of American Art and the Huntington Library, home to more than 6 million rare scripts, books, photos and other works, including the double elephant folio edition of John James Audubon’s The Birds of America.
Griffith Observatory
Hoping to spot stars in Hollywood? Ascend Mount Hollywood to the Griffith Observatory, which commands expansive views of the L.A. Basin as well as the heavens above. Visitors can tour the grounds and observatory, go on an astronomical adventure via a live show at the state-of-the-art Samuel Oschin Planetarium Theater and search the sky through a telescope at a public “star party,” held monthly. The iconic dome-topped observatory is a starring attraction of the 4,210-acre Griffith Park, also home to the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, a merry-go-round, Travel Town, pony rides, the Greek Theatre and miles of popular hiking trails. 2800 E. Observatory Road, Griffith Park, 213.473.0800, griffithobs.org
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1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, 626.405.2100, huntington.org
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ON RODEO DRIVE: AGENT PROVOCATEUR CH CAROLINA HERRERA
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DAMIANI JIMMY CHOO JUDITH LEIBER LALIQUE LANVIN STEFANO RICCI
ON VIA RODEO: 208 RODEO RESTAURANT BREGUET DAVID ORGELL GALERIE MICHAEL JUDITH RIPKA McCORMICK & SCHMICK’S PERSOL EYEWEAR PETER MARCO PORSCHE DESIGN RICHARD MILLE STEPHEN WEBSTER TIFFANY & CO. URASAWA VERSACE VERTU WESTIME
ON WILSHIRE BLVD: BARACCI BUCCELLATI VILEBREQUIN
THE CROWN JEWEL IN THE HEART OF BEVERLY HILLS AN EXQUISITE LUXURY SHOPPING CENTER two hours free valet parking from 10 am to 6 pm. enter on dayton way. the corner of rodeo drive & wilshire boulevard managed & leased by
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• 310.247.7040
TwoRodeo.com facebook.com/TwoRodeoDrive twitter.com/TwoRodeoDr
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The Grove & Farmers Market
With its shiny trolley and cobblestone streets, the Grove’s design is steeped in nostalgia. Yet this popular outdoor shopping and entertainment center’s retail options are decidedly “now,” including such hot stores as Barneys New York CO-OP, American Girl Place and Apple. Enjoy dancing fountains and free concerts while you shop, then refuel at one of the Grove’s fine dining spots, such as Umami Burger or the Fat Cow. Or hop on the trolley to adjacent Farmers Market, an L.A. institution packed with more than 100 stalls, boutiques and eateries. The Grove, 189 The Grove Drive, L.A., 323.900.8080, thegrovela.com; Farmers Market, 6333 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.933.9211, farmersmarketla.com
Rodeo Drive
Rodeo Drive’s reputation for unbridled wealth and glamour is unsurpassed by any shopping district in the country, if not the world. And deservedly so: The brands occupying the highest echelons of luxury retail—Cartier, Bottega Veneta, Tom Ford and Valentino among them—are concentrated in just a few blocks here in Beverly Hills, creating a gravitational pull that attracts sightseers and serious shoppers alike. Find Herve Leger and G-Star Raw at Rodeo Collection, and stroll up the cobblestoned Via Rodeo to Richard Mille a 14-foot-tall Robert Graham sculpture stands proud, honoring the fashion and entertainment luminaries inducted into the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style. Rodeo Drive between Wilshire and Santa Monica boulevards, Beverly Hills, 323.769.3600, rodeodrive-bh.com
Edwin SANTIAGO
and Agent Provocateur. At the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Dayton Way,
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Third Street Promenade & Santa Monica Place
Just steps from the Santa Monica Pier, the three city blocks that comprise the pedestrian-only Third Street Promenade offer entertainment, dining and shopping aplenty. Street performers and vendors ply their trades while visitors and locals filter in and out of the bars, theaters, restaurants and shops packing the promenade and surrounding streets. Many of the stores, which run from A/X Armani Exchange to Zara International, stay open late to accommodate the lively crowds. Anchoring the promenade at Broadway is Santa Monica Place, a glittering open-air shopping center that boasts Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom, dozens of upscale boutiques and a rooftop Dining Deck with a half-dozen restaurants and a modern food court offering ocean breezes and Santa Monica views. Third Street Promenade, 3rd Street from Broadway to Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, 310.393.8355, downtownsm.com; Santa Monica Place, 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, 310.260.8333, santamonicaplace.com
Ocean Front Walk
Marine Street to the Venice Pier, known as Ocean Front Walk, is prime people-watching territory. Here, you see street performers, ragtag pianists, pumped-up bodybuilders fresh from Muscle Beach, scantily clad inline skaters, souvenir hawkers and tourists with mouths agape, taking in the scene. Not in the market for a tattoo or piercing from one of the local parlors? Grab a bite at an oceanfront cafe or step onto the beach, where volleyball nets, a bike path and wide swaths of sand offer more conventional delights.
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FROM TOP: CHRISTOPHER IAN SMITH; IAN WHITE
The mile-and-a-half long concrete boardwalk along Venice Beach from
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Getty Center & Getty Villa
Thanks to keen business acumen combined with passion for the arts and a philanthropic spirit, J. L.A.’s finest cultural destinations: the Getty Center and Getty Villa. The Getty Center is a modernist Richard Meier–designed complex featuring expansive views, natural gardens and light-filled buildings clad in 1.2 million square feet of travertine. The art collection features European paintings, drawings, sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, decorative arts, and European and American photographs. The coastal Getty Villa is modeled after a first-century Roman country house and bedecked with classical architectural details and a prominent collection of Greek, Etruscan and Roman antiquities. Visitors also enjoy cafe dining and performances in the villa’s 450-seat outdoor classical theater. Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Drive, L.A., 310.440.7300; Getty Villa, 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades, 310.440.7300. getty.edu
FROm LEFT: GETTy viLLa, aSHOK SiNHa; GETTy cENTER, cHRiSTOPHER iaN SmiTH
Paul Getty left a legacy that established two of
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Universal Studios Hollywood & Universal CityWalk
What’s most thrilling: spotting a celebrity on the back lot of a working movie studio, battling four-story-tall Decepticons in 3-D or hearing your favorite band play live in a premier venue? At Universal Studios Hollywood and neighboring Universal CityWalk, you can experience all three. The tour through the world’s largest working movie studio guides you through recognizable sets such as Desperate Housewives’ Wisteria Lane and culminates with King Kong 360 3-D, created by film director Peter Jackson. Attractions at the theme park include the mind-bending new Transformers: the Ride 3-D, the indoor roller coaster Revenge of the Mummy—the Ride and Shrek 4-D. At admission-free Universal CityWalk, enjoy shopping and dining, concerts at Gibson Amphitheatre, a 19-screen cinema and nine nightlife destinations, including the Jon Lovitz Comedy Club. Universal Studios Hollywood, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.3801, universalstudioshollywood.com; Universal CityWalk, 818.622.4455, citywalkhollywood.com
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Located halfway between the ocean and downtown, LACMA houses 100,000 objects, from ancient Japanese works in the Pavilion for Japanese Art to contemporary pieces by Richard Serra and Sherrie Levine in the 60,000-square-foot Broad Contemporary Art Museum. In 2010, the Renzo Pianodesigned Lynda and Stewart Resnick Exhibition Pavilion, with its hallmark cherry-red accents and sharp angles, was added to the constantly expanding and evolving 20-acre campus to host special exhibitions and showcase more of LACMA’s deep permanent collection. Other offerings include the Art of the Americas Building, LACMA West and the Bing Theater. as well as the recently added work Levitated Mass by artist Michael Heizer, which consists of a 340-ton granite megalith perched atop a passable “slot” built into on the Resnick North Lawn. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6000, lacma.org
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Outdoors, visit Chris Burden’s iconic installation Urban Light
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Where Guestbook: Aaron Basha/Westime advertisement
254 RODEO DRIVE BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90210 310.271.0000
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Walt Disney Concert Hall
Even when Walt Disney Concert Hall is silent, the Frank Gehry-designed building, which opened to great fanfare in 2003, makes a vivid sensory impact. The exterior’s stainless-steel-clad, soaring curvilinear forms strike a dazzling pose against downtown’s blue skies and add a contemporary element to the Music Center complex, which also includes the Ahmanson Theatre, the Mark Taper Forum and the Dorothy hardwood-paneled main auditorium is an acoustically sophisticated complement to the iconic exterior as well as the talents of the resident orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and its vibrant young conductor, Gustavo Dudamel. 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 323.850.2000, laphil.com
SARAH HADLEY
Chandler Pavilion. Of course, music is the hall’s raison d’être, and accordingly its
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Tim’s View British-born Tim Street-Porter came to L.A. for the first time in the early 1960s to see the Beatles play at the Hollywood Bowl. He also made made a point of visiting homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright—“less deafening, but just as eyeopening,” he recalls. He moved to L.A. a decade later and has become today’s most prominent photographer of L.A. architecture, capturing Art Deco jewels, modernist landmarks, opulent private homes and more. The images he selected for his book, Los Angeles (Rizzoli), are his “answer to all those who have ever said, ...‘There is nothing worth saving here.’ ”
Pantages theater
photography by tim street-porter
(Hollywood)
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Above and right: Ennis House (Hollywood), Frank Lloyd Wright, 1924 bottom, far left: Barnsdall
previous spread: Tim Street-porter portrait, annie kelly
hollyhock house (Hollywood), frank lloyd wright, 1917–20 bottom left: La Miniatura (Pasadena), frank lloyd wright, 1923, interior design and renovations by annie kelly
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elevator (left) and a selection of clocks (above) from southwestern university law school (wilshire), formerly bullocks wilshire department store, john and donald parkinson, 1929, designed by jack peters right: southwestern university law school porte cochère mural by herman sachs
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left and above: sortilegium, tony duquette’s ranch (malibu), designed and built by tony duquette, 1960–2000
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THE PRICE IS RIGHT HOST DREW CAREY AND CONTESTANT
ALMOST ➺FAMOUS➺ ONE WOMAN TIMIDLY GOES WHERE MANY ANGELENOS HAVE GONE BEFORE: TO CLAIM HER 15 MINUTES OF FAME BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY. BY SUZANNE ENNIS
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OPPOSITE: CLIFF LIPSON/CBS ©2011 CBS BROADCASTING INC.
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t 11 on a sunny autumn morning, hundreds of people are milling around outside Television City on Fairfax Avenue, just past the Farmers Market. Most are clumped in groups wearing matching personalized T-shirts, warily eyeing the CBS pages manning the gate. These are The Price is Right hopefuls, all waiting for a shot to “come on down” to hug host Drew Carey and win prizes on national TV. I am embedded among them, harboring a secret journalistic agenda: to claim those 15 minamong utes of fame Andy Warhol promised me in 1968, then report what I learn. utes The reality program Candid Camera and game shows such as What’s My The Line? had been popular for years when Warhol made his prediction, but even the pop-culture savant couldn’t have imagined the opportunities that abound today. Thanks to a burgeoning “unscripted programming” field, paths to the spotlight are everywhere, especially in L.A. While shopping at the Grove, you could wind up auditioning for The Voice. A conversation in a Hollywood bar could earn you a dating-show callback. Tickets to The Ellen DeGeneres Show, taped at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, might lead to you boogieing onstage. I, however, am happily married and can neither dance nor sing. So, before setting out on my mission, I consulted an expert who might boost my odds of success. Sarah Monson has cast some of the top reality TV shows in history, including CBS’ Survivor. While auditioning for her shows, desperate applicants have had panic attacks and proposed marriage. Sometimes she’s the pursuer: As she puts it, she’s “the crazy lady [who] comes up to people in the supermarket asking them if they’re single and want to go on The Bachelor.” Monson also charmed her way onto Who Wants to be a Millionaire and won $11,000. Recently, she channeled the insider casting tips and tricks she’s learned during her decade in the business into Me On TV, a bestseller on Amazon.com. I figured if Monson couldn’t help me, nobody could. Monson dispelled my daydream of heading to an island any day soon. “When I was at Survivor,” she recalls, “I think we got around 25,000 applications per season. With only around 18 slots on the show in any season, that’s a .072% chance to make it on air.” She was nonetheless optimistic, even when I broke it to her that I have no starlike qualities. “Everyone has a shot to get on TV. You just need to figure out which show will best showcase the best parts of who you are. So for you, I’d pick a home improvement show. Get yourself a new kitchen! These shows usually have hosts that add the pizazz.” She had me at “new kitchen.” I clicked to HGTV.com, and there it was: “We Want to Seriously Upgrade Your L.A. Home.” I started crafting a woeful email about my unfinished renovation. Then, the doubts set in: What might happen if I were actually picked? A conversation with two reality TV veterans, Brendon Villegas and Rachel Reilly, gave me a sense of what it might mean to “make it” on reality television. Villegas, a doctoral student in UCLA’s department of biomedical physics, met Reilly when they were both contestants on the twelfth season of Big Brother. (Reilly came by way of an open casting call in Las Vegas; a
casting agent spotted the initially reluctant Villegas in a Newport Beach bar). After a summer holed up with the other contestants, virtually “wiped off the planet,” as Villegas puts it, the two emerged chastened by the intense experience, but inseparable. The next summer, “Brenchel,” as they’re affectionately known by fans, was wooed back to the house. This time, their alliance won Reilly the grand prize—a cool $500,000. That night, they were invited to compete on The Amazing Race, ultimately placing third. A few months later they were married in a spectacular ceremony, televised on WEtv. Theirs is a real-life fairy tale made on, and for, reality TV. Brenchel has everything Monson says casting directors look for: strong personalities, confidence, looks, energy, “humanity” and “realness”—not to mention palpable chemistry. But even so, they are the first to tell you it’s hard work to be on reality television, and even harder to keep the offers coming in. Villegas says, “One of the best pieces of advice we ever got was … ‘After you get off, you’ve got about a month and a half [to take advantage of your fame], because past that, people aren’t going to remember who you are.’ ” While Villegas is back to his doctoral studies, which have remained his top priority, Reilly is hard at work developing her website, Adventures4Pets.com, and taking acting classes—all part of trying to extend her reality TV experience into a lasting entertainment career. Comparing myself to Villegas and Reilly made me certain I had neither the drive nor the personality required to become a reality TV star. So, I came back to another of Monson’s pitches: game shows. “Game shows are perfect for you,” she assured me. “Seriously, you don’t need to be a supermodel, you don’t need to have amazing skills, you just need to fit the mold of what the game show is about: brains, brawn or Wipeout!” In L.A., there are several options, including Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy!, which are taped at Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City. But both require auditions preceded by online applications. The thought of tackling Wipeout’s obstacle courses downright scared me. Next, I Googled The Price is Right, TV’s longest-running game show. Within minutes I held a ticket to the show that instructed me to arrive by noon in two weeks’ time. Bingo. That brings me back to Television City. After spending nearly five hours in line, I am finally facing the show’s affable producer. He is all that stands between my “I Googled The 15 minutes and me, so I rehearse Monson’s Price is Right, advice in my head. “Get in line between two people who look really lame! Don’t babble! TV’s longest[Take] the energy level to 11!” He asks me running game what I do, and I hesitate. Do I admit I’m a show. Within writer? I mumble and look down, and he moves on to the next person in line, who has minutes I held a million-watt smile and makes ukuleles for a ticket ... that a living. Suffice it to say, I do not get asked instructed me to to come on down. But I surprise myself by having a blast, and because I’m seated right arrive by noon behind the contestants, you’ll see me cheering in two weeks’ my heart out in almost every shot. Mission time. Bingo.” accomplished after all.
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PIECES HISTORY
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Witherspoon was named Best Actress for her role in Walk the Line wearing an ultra-feminine cream Dior confection appropriately dating from the year before Johnny Cash recorded the film's namesake song. In 2011, Marisa Tomei chose an architectural navy Charles James gown, circa 1950, that (love or leave it) had fashion historians buzzing. And who can forget camera candy such as Keira Knightley’s extravagant 1960s multicolored Bulgari necklace, worn in 2006? These are just a sampling of what’s hit the red carpet and a teaser of what’s surely to come. The passion for vintage at awards shows has only grown, and shows no sign of abating. With major clothing and jewelry designers vying for celebrities’ attention and wooing them with promises of ripped-fromthe-runway couture, why would a celebrity choose—or a stylist opt to put her Los Angeles may be known for exalting client in—a vintage bauble or gown? On one all that’s shiny and new, but in at least one hand, one-of-a-kind vintage (which, genercategory, beauty resoundingly triumphs over ally speaking, means dating from the 1920s youth: vintage fashion. From haute couture to the 1980s) confers a feeling of exclusivity, to varsity jackets and ruby brooches to with historically significant pieces lending Bakelite bracelets, the best of yesteryear conan intellectual cachet to the wearer. The tinues to look fresh on the red carpet as well enduring appeal of Old Hollywood glamour as the street. Today, thanks to the city’s legand the popularity of big- and small-screen endary vintage boutiques, whose proprietors period dramas such as Mad Men, Downton scour the globe’s attics, estate sales, celebrity Abbey and Anna Karenina stoke that fire. closets and auction houses on your behalf, Surely, the fine craftsmanship of quality vinwell-preserved looks from tage couture and estate jewelry, OppOsite: vintage whatever bygone era your heart plus the green appeal of giving blOuse frOm sielian's desires are at your fingertips. a “previously loved” dress or vintage apparel in west When you think vintage, diamond new life, are relevant hOllywOOd. this page: are you picturing a particular arguments, too. The most pervintage wedding rings frOm craig evan small major actress in a one-of-asuasive factor, however, may be kind, pulled-from-the-archives the pieces’ emotional appeal. confection? Her stylist certainly hopes so. A Celebrity stylist Anita Patrickson, who’s survey of the most memorable gowns and behind some of the best red-carpet looks jewels from the last dozen years of Academy worn by Emma Watson, Julianne Hough Awards ceremony fashion showcases the and Nina Dobrev, explains, “It’s a great power of going retro. At the 2001 ceremoway to tell a story. I love the history behind ny, a stunning citron Jean Dessès strapless vintage pieces—where they came from and number from 1959 put Renée Zellweger what it is about these particular pieces that on the fashion map and vintage into the make them timeless. I also love making them public consciousness. Five years later, Reese relevant and current, reinventing them in a
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ABOVE: decades boutique on melrose avenue is a purveyor of fine vintage fashion and accessories, including couture pieces.
way.” And what are actresses about, if not reinventing material and telling stories old and new? The right vintage dress, hairstyle and jewelry can also evoke comparisons to screen icons from an earlier era—a fact surely not lost on stylists and actresses. What ingénue wouldn't like to resemble a modernday Veronica Lake, Rita Hayworth or Elizabeth Taylor? For the antique and vintage precious gems that dazzle on the red carpet, L.A.’s reigning king is Neil Lane, based on North La Cienega Boulevard. For more than 20 years, Lane has built a reputation for outfitting celebrities and discerning Angelenos with fine period jewelry, including one-of-a-kind wedding and engagement rings. In 2001, Lane catapulted to fame when Golden Globe Awards nominee Zellweger wore his Art Deco-era jewels to the ceremony to accent her streamlined black James Galanos vintage gown. Since then, his period pieces as well as his contemporary “vintage-inspired” jewelry have become matrimonial and red-carpet staples for celebrities including Portia de Rossi and Miley Cyrus. More under the radar (but no less fine) are Craig Evan Small on North La Cienega and, in Beverly Hills, Excalibur and Claude Morady Estate Jewelry, the latter of which adorned Adria Tennor of The Artist at last year’s Golden Globes. Worth noting: As aspirational as some pieces in these jewelers’ collections may be, others are supremely wearable. A vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual watch or French-cut diamond-and-platinum eternity band would bring a touch of romance to anyone’s day-to-day ensembles. It’s the once-in-a-lifetime gowns, though, that tend to persist in our imaginations. While Witherspoon happened upon her Dior gown in Paris, many of the dresses gliding down the
red carpet today come from a handful of world-renowned Los Angeles boutiques specializing in designer and couture vintage. Tomei’s Charles James and Zellweger’s Jean Dessès gowns, for example, were found at the ultra-exclusive Lily et Cie, a Beverly Hills institution since 1979 whose 5,000 square feet are packed with museum-quality—and duly pricey—historic couture and rare designer pieces. The Way We Wore on trendy South La Brea Avenue is another celebrity and stylist source. Hollywood power stylists Jessica Paster and George Kotsiopoulos name it as a favorite, and Lady Gaga and Angelina Jolie have stepped out in dresses from owner Doris Raymond’s extensive collection. Unsurprisingly, with more than 100,000 pieces of vintage clothing, textiles and accessories, Raymond’s archives are also a treasure chest for costume designers and contemporary fashion designers looking for inspiration. The Paper Bag Princess in Beverly Hills (a favorite of Mad Men costume designer Janie Bryant) and Sielian’s Vintage Apparel and Resurrection, both on Melrose in West Hollywood, are also must-shop stops on L.A.’s high-end vintage path. Ask any stylist, actress or style-setter about her dream source for vintage fashion and accessories in L.A., and odds are that Decades, the Melrose Avenue vintage mecca coowned by Cameron Silver and Christos Garkinos, will be the first name from her lips. Since 1997, Decades has paired discerning fashion lovers and stars such as Jennifer Lopez and Nicole Kidman with fabulous frocks that emanate Hollywood elegance. And gowns are just the beginning. Are you looking for a pristine Kelly or Birkin bag? Decades is Hermès heaven. Maybe a vintage YSL suit, or an '80s-era Chanel cameo cuff? Decades. Perhaps more than any other purveyor of fine vintage, Silver has become a household name in his own right. Named one of Time magazine’s “25 Most Influential Names and Faces in Fashion” in 2002, Silver recently released the encyclopedic Decades: A Century of Fashion, highlighting iconic looks from eras past and illustrating how those pieces can still look relevant today. Patrickson effuses, “For my indulgent splurges I can think of nowhere I’d rather be than Decades. [Silver is] the high priest of vintage, has impeccable taste, and there are treasures galore in his store.” Silver sees celebrities’ embrace of vintage fashion (which, he’s too polite to note, is largely thanks to his influence) as the reason vintage went viral, particularly in L.A. “Vintage became more mainstream when today’s stars started wearing great '50s to '70s ensembles on the red carpet,” Silver explains, “thus making L.A. the go-to city for vintage lovers and certainly the capital of vintage chic.” Silver has seen that democratization spreading during his time in the business,
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noting, “In the past 15 years, the audience has become completely global and the clientele multigenerational.... Everyone wants to look individual, and vintage ensures this.” Unless you’re dressing for Halloween or a period drama, though, rocking head-to-toe vintage can be tricky. In his blog, Silver advises prospective buyers of a 1980s Chanel cardigan/skirt combo to pair the cardigan with a pair of current-season leather pants by the Row, and the skirt with a Rick Owens tank, a Cerre leather jacket, tights and motorcycle boots. By pairing the vintage with the contemporary, a potentially dowdy ensemble is elevated to the heights of 21stcentury chic. Patrickson concurs: “I love mixing vintage with modern pieces to keep my outfit from looking too dated: a great vintage dress with killer heels, or a retro top with stylish skinny jeans.” The current hankering for early 1960s styling, with its bold colors and curvaceous silhouettes, makes seeking out items from that era a safe bet if you’re dipping a toe into wearing vintage but want to look au courant. Tailoring adds the finishing touch. Patrickson says, “Many of these pieces can and probably should be altered to look their very best on you.” Of course, alteration and “mixing it up” have been the cool-girl fashion recipe since Molly Ringwald’s Andie upcycled a poufy '50s prom dress in Pretty in Pink, and it doesn’t take couture ingredients to make a look work. Trend-setting young stars such as Rachel Bilson and Nicole Richie unabashedly proclaim their love for sifting through thrift-store and flea-market racks to unearth treasures, and in L.A., there are plenty to be found. The Rose Bowl flea market in Pasadena, open on the second Sunday of every month, is the granddaddy and the most famous of the bunch, attracting more than 2,500 vendors and more than 15,000 buyers every month. Stylist Melis Kuris, who dresses Jennie Garth and Two Broke Girls’ Beth Behrs, hunts for vintage jewelry at the Rose Bowl as well as the Melrose Trading Post at Fairfax and Melrose avenues. Patrickson is a Melrose Trading Post regular, too. “I love stopping by on Sunday afternoons to sort through the plethora of cool vintage booths,” Patrickson reports. “Part of the fun of vintage shopping is the hunt! Searching through old pieces can be just as fun [and] inspirational as finding that perfect dress in Neiman Marcus." There is a shopping spectrum, fortunately, between polyester cast-offs baking on hot asphalt to white-glove, blacktie couture. Many of the stores offering top-end designers labels, such as the Way We Wore, offer a range of prices and silhouettes that put quality, well-preserved vintage within the reach and lifestyles of non-celebrities. What Goes Around Comes Around on South La Brea Avenue is a trove of '80s
and early '90s Chanel accessories along with supercasual vintage rock tees and denim. Cultlike devotion is inspired by Shareen Vintage, owned by vintage curator, stylist, designer and star of Planet Green’s Dresscue Me Shareen Mitchell. Mitchell’s downtown flagship is a vintage bonanza located in an unpretentious warehouse on Spring Street. Katy Perry and Zooey Deschanel have stepped out in Shareen finds, and Kuris, Patrickson and stylist Nicole Chavez (who works with the aforementioned Bilson) cite the warehouse as a favorite haunt. There, you’ll find racks upon racks of fabulous party frocks in the $30 to $80 range, organized by style or era and hand-picked by Mitchell herself. What you won’t find: a dressing room or a man. (The latter are banished at the front door.) As demand grows for yesterday’s couture gowns as well as funky flea-market finds, so does the debate as to what constitutes true “vintage," with criteria such as “collectible” (which might explain how Julia Roberts’ exquisite 1982 Valentino Oscar gown made the cut in 2001) and “at least 10 years old” (which is so broad as to include your college sweatshirt) bandied about. But connoisseurs agree: Whether you’re dressing for the red carpet or for dinner out on the town, quality clothing and accessories that capture the zeitgeist of a particular time wield unique powers over the imagination. And today, perhaps in L.A. more than anywhere, your options never looked better.
above, from left: julia roberts accepts her 2001 academy award in vintage valentino, while reese witherspoon picks up her oscar in 2006 in a 1955 Dior dress. marisa tomei wore a 1950 charles james gown from beverly hills' lily et cie to the 2011 ceremony.
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Q&A
Hollywood Fairy Tale At a professional high point—playing Snow White on ABC’s Once Upon a Time—Ginnifer Goodwin lives happily ever after in L.A. by JESSICA RADLOFF
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oppostie: Jeff Vespa/Contour by GettyImages
ver since she moved to Hollywood from Memphis, Tenn., Ginnifer Goodwin has lived a storybook existence. She’s charmed audiences for over a decade with her multilayered performances in such films and TV series as Mona Lisa Smile, Walk the Line, He’s Just Not That Into You and Big Love. On the ABC Sunday-night sensation Once Upon a Time, the 34-year-old plays Mary Margaret Blanchard, aka Snow White. The Whitley Heights resident may be naturally sweet with impeccable manners, but she also possesses a drive that has maintained her presence on the big and small screens. Goodwin tells us about her biggest fear, her obsession with Disneyland and her charming L.A. life.
You were born Jennifer Michelle Goodwin, but you go by Ginny.
When I was in college in Boston, I was perplexed by my being called Jennifer, in that phonetically pronounced way. I was raised in the South where it was pronounced Ginnifer or Ginny, and so, when my professors would call my name, I honest to God thought they were talking to someone else and wouldn’t respond. My mom always
said, “It’s Ginny, not Jenny. You’re a Southern lady.” In sort of a rebellion, but also with my Mom’s approval, I changed the spelling of my name. You’ve come so far in your acting career. What still scares you?
Right now, I’m definitely nervous about aging in Hollywood. In general, as the new crop rolls in, as the parts that I look at [are] of more mature women, I’m faced with the fact that going through life without children is not an option for me. That is something I need to start thinking about. It’s also because I’m playing a character that is younger than I am, and ironically the effect on me is that it makes me aware of how old I am. I think a lot more about age, about my place in Hollywood and what I want to achieve. You cut off your hair recently. That might scare some people!
It actually didn’t scare me because I’m lazy. [Laughs.] I just can’t seem to find the time to do my hair. My hair is unruly, and it took teams of people [to do it] when it was long. Chopping it off was truly in the name of time management. I’d been wearing wigs in movies for years.
Viewers love Once Upon a Time. Did you know it would be a hit?
I knew it was going to be special because I fell head over heels in love with the script. When I first read it, I was bouncing off the walls. I knew if I wasn’t a part of it, I would be incredibly jealous of whoever was. As my agent put it, it’s my Harry Potter. It’s something that I am consciously making for my future children. There’s something really magical about a show that is as creative as this one is and isn’t relying on the crutches of cable that include overt sexuality. It’s such a pure and beautiful love story ... [and] I’ve always had a girl crush on Snow White. Do you get a lifetime pass to Disneyland and Disney World now?
I tried to negotiate that into my contract, but apparently it is not a negotiable point. But I recently became a member of Club 33, and therefore do actually get a lifetime supply of tickets to Disneyland, because it is my preferred weekend getaway. I’ve gone six times in the past four months. You’re close with your co-stars on Once Upon A Time. What would they tell us about you?
[Some say I’m a] bit clumsy, while others say that I am a crazy cat lady. Also, apparently whenever I hit anyone during a fight sequence, I yell, “Hi-ya,” kung fu-movie-style. [Laughs.] Let’s talk L.A. Where do you like to shop?
Nickey/Kehoe is great, [and] I love ... the Pasadena Rose Bowl flea market. What are your favorite restaurants for a special date night?
Le Petit Restaurant is No. 1, followed by Bouchon and Figaro Bistrot. I’m told that I always go French. I guess I do! Where do you go to indulge in your favorite foods?
101 Coffee Shop for macaroni and cheese, Bottega Louie for French macarons and Wurstküche for hot dogs! When you have a day off, where do you like to spend it?
I love scouring the vinyl at Amoeba [Music], taking ballet lessons from Andie Hecker of Ballet Bodies, playing with friends at the Magic Castle and taking in films at El Capitan Theatre or the Silent Movie Theatre.
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nesting IN THE HILLS A SLEEK HOME ON BLUE JAY WAY REFLECTS THE HIP MODERN VIBE OF A HIGH-FLYING L.A. NEIGHBORHOOD BY ROGER GRODY
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK SPRINGETT
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f you’re an NBA center, tech entrepreneur or petrobillionaire from Russia or Brazil shopping for a party house in L.A., your real estate agent will undoubtedly take you to a neighborhood known as the “bird streets.” Perched in the Hollywood Hills just off Doheny Drive, this is one of the city’s hottest residential markets. Names such as Oriole Drive, Skylark Lane and Mockingbird Place are responsible for the moniker, and a particular house on the 1400 block of Blue Jay Way captures the essence of this neighborhood. The bird streets, winding through the Hollywood Hills above Sunset Boulevard, have always been coveted, not just for their proximity to the nightlife on the Strip, but also for some of the most spectacular views in SoCal. The best addresses offer incredible vistas of downtown and the Pacific Ocean. Over the years, much of Hollywood—stars from Lenny Bruce to Leonardo DiCaprio—has inhabited the neighborhood, along with plenty of studio execs. And when George Harrison was renting a home at 1567 Blue Jay Way in 1967, he penned a wistful song honoring the street, which would become one of the tracks on the Beatles’ album Magical Mystery Tour. “Soon will be the break of day/sitting here in Blue Jay Way/please don’t be long/please don’t be long,” Harrison croons. In recent years, buyers have been tearing down the original residences in the bird streets and constructing some of the most spectacular homes in L.A., many designed by noted architects such as Richard Landry and Zoltan Pali. This featured home on Blue Jay Way, a block from the house Harrison rented, is a perfect example of bird street modernism, clearly rooted in the spirit of midcentury masters such as Richard Neutra, John Lautner and Rudolph Schindler. L.A. may be famous for cookie-cutter subdivisions, but its modernist pioneers created one of the richest traditions of residential architecture in the world. That heritage appears very much alive on this steep-sloped lot on Blue Jay Way, purchased in 2005 by developer Brad Kuish, who brought in architectural designer Paul McClean to maximize its potential. He also retained interior designer Ryan Brown (featured in Bravo’s Flipping Out) and brother Joshua to provide distinctive finishing. McClean has designed eight homes in the bird streets, and Brown Design Group has extensive experience throughout the Hollywood Hills, some on behalf of celebrity clients. At time of publication, this Blue Jay Way property was on the market, offered at $15.75 million. “The bird streets [are] the hottest area in L.A. right now,” reports Sotheby’s International Realty’s Ryan Davis, who is a veteran of celebrity deals in the Hollywood Hills. In addition to the views and cachet value of the star-studded neighborhood, much of this demand can be attributed to convenience, he sug-
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PREVIOUS SPREAD: The property on blue jay way features magnificent views, one of the main draws of the hollywood hills’ “bird streets.” this page, above: interior designer ryan brown furnished the kitchen with top-of-the-line wagner cabinets and miele appliances. below: despite the relatively small size of the lot, developer brad kuish was determined to include this sparkling 25-meter lap pool.
gests. After all, the drive from a chic bistro, boutique or nightclub to one’s promontory in the bird streets is less than five minutes. Davis cites recent prices hitting $2,300 per square foot, which is considered the stratosphere for any real estate market in the world, and prices continue to climb. “There’s a big movement toward contemporary view properties, and the bird streets [are] the place to find huge modern houses with jetliner views,” says Davis. In fact, demand is outstripping supply as most of the best lots and recent-vintage trophy houses have already been snatched up. The bird streets are not about to cool off, however, with an influx of international buyers looking for panoramic views and a party atmosphere. Davis also reports considerable interest from technology entrepreneurs, including Facebook execs cashing in their shares. Not long ago, he and partner Ben Bacal sold a stunning Blue Jay Way contemporary to billionaire Ted Waitt, co-founder of the computer company Gateway. Regulatory approval for that house, which is shoehorned into a relatively small lot, slipped in just before implementation of an anti-mansionization hillside ordinance in 2010. Paul McClean’s bird street houses, including the one shown here, reflect the neighborhood’s hip new image. Born and trained in Ireland, he specializes in contemporary luxury residential design from a studio in Orange County. McClean’s aesthetic was particularly inspired by the clean lines of Neutra, and he arrived in Southern California for many of the same reasons as the
late Viennese master. Both were drawn by the immense design potential offered by the region’s physical diversity, encompassing a spectacular coastline, rugged hills and desert. “I grew up in a cold, gray place and was always attracted to Los Angeles, which for a century has been the crucible of contemporary residential architecture,” explains McClean. In addition to being a dynamic laboratory for modernism, L.A. is one of the few big cities in the world offering single-family detached home ownership so close to urban activity, he says. Blue Jay Way, for instance, lies just above Sunset Boulevard, one of the city’s most cosmopolitan stretches of asphalt. Reinforcing that view is Ryan Brown, who sums up the appeal of the bird streets as only an insider can do. “The neighborhood provides access to all the craziness, but a few minutes up the hill and it’s tranquil, quiet and removed.” Explaining some of the market forces at play, he adds, “If you’ve got a ton of cash to drop and want the best of the best, you go to the Hollywood Hills.” And this property is the quintessential Hollywood Hills house, seemingly tailor-made for an Entourage shooting location. Like McClean’s other projects, this home maximizes views and thoroughly blurs the lines between indoors and out. The six-bedroom, seven-bath house is just more than 7,000 square feet, which by L.A. standards is not particularly large, and its lot is also relatively small at about one-third of an acre. It is the coveted bird street site itself, affording some of the best views in the city, and the glitzy architecture that distinguish the home and drive the price. “This house maximizes all of its assets, with a killer backyard, great rooms and jetliner views,” says Brown. “The views are great during the day, and at night it becomes kind of a jewel box.” Curbside, Blue Jay Way is a surprisingly sedate hillside cul-de-sac with construction sites scattered amid the more modest, endangered housing stock from the 1960s that belie the value of the real estate. Sotheby’s Davis comments, “Blue Jay is a street right at the top [of the hill] but is still just a few minutes from Sunset and dictates some of the best views in the bird streets.” Like many L.A. residences in the hills or on the beach, the front façade is understated and relatively discreet. Once inside, however, one experiences a passionate homage to bold, flashy modernism. McClean reports the developer was determined to have a 25-meter lap pool on the property, despite the constraints of the lot. That water feature, therefore, was the primary concept generator,
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followed by the sight lines. “People spend an enormous amount of money in this neighborhood for the views, so we asked ourselves how we could maximize them from every room,” explains McClean, who also sought to accommodate an indoor/outdoor lifestyle. One ascends to the home’s signature skywalk—an elevated platform that gives definition to the entire design—from a small stairway wrapping around a water feature integrated into the spa. This walkway bridges the long pool between two masses: a public wing containing the living room, kitchen, dining room and study; and a private wing dominated by living quarters. In one direction, the end of the infinity-edge pool appears to kiss the
sparkling downtown skyline on the horizon, while in the other direction it culminates at a secluded spa. With unique fire sculptures dramatically juxtaposed above the blue water, the design suggests a spiritual, zenlike vibe. Overall, the house features approximately 2,000 square feet of exterior decks and terraces, effectively increasing the total livable space by more than 25 percent and fulfilling the desire of Kuish and McClean to express the California lifestyle through an environment that presents minimal spatial or visual barriers. The kitchen—decked out in custom-made lacquerfinished cabinetry from Wagner, a prestigious German manufacturer, and high-end Miele appliances—is the
ABOVE: THE TRIANGULAR MASTER BEDROOM FEATURES RETRACTABLE GLASS WALLS.
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natural extension of a glass-ensconced open-concept great room. A wine refrigerator, storing up to 300 bottles positioned laterally, lies behind frosted sliding glass doors, and four seats wrapped in supple Italian leather flank a white quartz island. Seven Lucite cylinders, which Brown discovered at an L.A. showroom, dangle from the ceiling over the island like a mobile, playfully refracting the light from the sun or recessed ceiling fixtures. “Like most of the homes we design, this house is fundamentally suited to a casual lifestyle.... All of the luxury amenities are included, but it’s not designed to be formal,” says McClean. The architect’s favorite room is the sharply angled master bedroom, which offers plenty of sex appeal. The chaos of Sunset Boulevard is less than five minutes away, but the occupants of this triangular glass box floating above the city skyline are sheltered from any distractions—except the views. Two glass walls retract, integrating the suite with an alluring terrace wrapping around the corner of the house. “When the two walls slide away, you’re basically sleeping outdoors,” notes McClean. The spacious master bath is also sheathed in glass, but the meticulous orientation of the home on the site ensures occupants are outside the lines of sight from nearby properties or rogue paparazzi. Clad in white Thassos marble, the bath features a central shower and an oversize tub with a spectacular view, reinforcing the sense of spa living in the sky. “It’s right out of a James Bond movie,” says interior designer Brown. Adjacent to the master bath is a closet/dressing room larger than many Robertson Boulevard boutiques. A wide staircase descends to the lower level, where one can fully enjoy the 25-meter infinity pool with canti-levered day bed. Also on this level are a game room, two full bedroom suites and a state-of-the-art media room that is a departure from the de rigueur Hollywood Hills amenity that usually resembles a small commercial theater. Brown explains he sought to create more of a multipurpose environment, with versatile lounge chairs and sofas instead of theater seats so the room could have utility even when its occupants aren’t watching a movie. The media room, however, isn’t the only place in the house to view the latest Hollywood release. Brown installed technology on one of the outdoor decks so residents can project movies onto a white stone wall while enjoying a barbecue or lounging in the pool. Brown suggested wide-planked oak flooring to bring additional warmth to the contemporary environment,
mindful that modern architecture runs the risk of feeling cold and sterile. “The floors accentuate the length and scale of the home in a very unique way,” he says, while adding a traditional note to an otherwise uncompromisingly modern environment. The design team also struggled to be sure the stucco was a color that suited the modern architecture while exuding warmth, and eventually decided on a soothing taupe. “We tried to use a mix of elements, styles and genres, including vintage pieces, so that the home would look as if it was pieced together over the years,” explains Brown of the selection of furniture and accessories. Huge pop art images created by California painter Paul Rusconi give the bright, airy spaces the feeling of a gallery. L.A., perhaps more than any other city in America, is blessed with incredible residential neighborhoods, from the haughty exclusivity of Bel-Air to the flashy beachfront vibe of Malibu. For a relatively urban context that celebrates the informal excesses of the Hollywood Hills, nothing soars quite as high as the bird streets. The lyrics of Harrison’s “Blue Jay Way” suggest being stranded on this cul-de-sac is a lonely existence, and perhaps in 1967 it was. Today, however, “sitting here in Blue Jay Way” is where everyone wants to be.
OPPOSITE: THE HOME’S SIGNATURE “SKYWALK” BRIDGES THE PUBLIC END OF THE HOUSE—LIVING ROOM, KITCHEN, DINING ROOM AND STUDY—WITH THE PRIVATE END FEATURING LIVING QUARTERS. ABOVE: THE WHITE MARBLE-FINISHED MASTER BATHROOM MIGHT APPEAR TO INHIBIT PRIVACY, BUT THE HOME’S ORIENTATION SHIELDS THE BATH FROM PRYING EYES OUTSIDE.
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POOL TOGETHER IN AN EXCERPT FROM CARRIE FISHER’S MEMOIR, SHOCKAHOLIC, the author/actress writes of her hollywood family and late former stepmother, Elizabeth taylor. decades after fisher’s father, eddie fisher, left debbie reynolds to wed taylor, the violet-eyed film legend made a splashy re-entry into the author’s life.
I’d spent quite a bit of my public life fielding questions about Elizabeth and how I felt about her now. Did I know her at all? Did I forgive her? And perhaps even more to the point, did my mother forgive her? For that matter, did anyone forgive my father? The truth was, up until that point I didn’t really know Elizabeth at all [and] I don’t recall our crossing paths in any significant way until this AIDS fund-raiser. On the day of the event, a bouquet of flowers was delivered to me at my home. This beautiful and quite enormous arrangement turned out to be from Elizabeth, and it even included a personal note signed by her, though it had quite clearly been dictated and sent to anyone and everyone connected to the imminent evening. It was nonetheless a very nice thank-you note, which I quite heartlessly used as part of my speech that night. Yes, there I was at the podium, facing a sea of gleefully Western-clad gay men and friends and fans of gay men. (It was, inexplicably, a cowboy-themed evening.) So, assuming the air of incredibly quiet dignity that was made possible by my not being decked out in cowboy gear, I strode up to the microphone and introduced myself to what might as well been the cast of Oklahoma! before launching into my ironic familial tale. “Today a beautiful bouquet of flowers arrived at my doorstep—flowers that actually turned out to be from my onetime stepmother, Elizabeth Taylor. Upon seeing Ms. Taylor’s signature at the bottom, I read the attendant card with
some excitement. I knew that it was more than likely the long-awaited apology for having stolen my father from me all those years ago, and so, clutching the little blue card in my hand, I ran back to my bedroom and, closing the door, I sat on the edge of my bed near my phone, lest it become necessary for me to call my psychiatrist after having absorbed Elizabeth’s emotional and contrite communiqué. So, I carefully opened the little envelope and, my heart pounding excitedly, I began to read. ‘Dear Carrie,’ the note began, ‘thank you so much for your participation in tonight’s important event and for joining me in this extraordinarily important fight against AIDS. Yours sincerely, Elizabeth.’ Okay, perhaps the note hadn’t directly addressed the long-ago theft of my dad, but I could read an apology between the lines if I wanted to.” Well,
as I hope you can imagine, my remarks caused the audience of gay cowboys to enthusiastically cry and laugh.... It was mid-morning on the following day that Elizabeth’s assistant Tim phoned to invite me to her house that Sunday for her annual Easter Party. “There’ll be an egg hunt and brunch and swimming for the kids,” he informed me gaily. “Oh, so then I can bring my daughter?” I asked him. Billie was about to turn six at the time. “Of course!” he cheered. I spent the ensuing six days assembling the perfect Elizabeth egg hunt outfit. So the following Sunday, I found myself poolside at Elizabeth’s elegant ranch home, tucked humbly into a hillside crowded with trees in the area of town referred to as the Beverly Hills. I sat in a chair near the pool and watched while Billie splashed around with the assortment of other favored children in attendance. After about half an hour or so, Elizabeth appeared in the open sliding-glass doorway wearing a colorful, agedefying dress draping over her somewhat ample iconic form. Looking every inch the aging movie star that she was—hair arranged perfectly and makeup just so—she paused, drawing any and all eyes to her as she made her way to one of the chairs situated under the umbrella near the shallow end of the pool that Billie frolicked in. [Then,] sitting in the shade drinking chilled glasses of iced tea, Elizabeth squinted through the sunshine, studying me. “I hear there’s something we need to discuss,” she ventured, tilting her head to one side. I shrugged and approached her, nervously smiling
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excerpt © 2011 by carrie Fisher. reprinted by permission oF simon & schuster, inc., ny. photo opposite: hulton archive/getty images. photo this page: michael lamont
a smile that I hoped appeared more confident than I felt. “Not really,” I assured her, pushing my hair away from my eyes. “It just ... well, I heard at some point that you had said something not all that great about my mom at a dinner party recently and I didn’t think that that was ...” I searched almost my entire head for the right word, finally coming up with “polite.” As she blinked, looking past me toward the lawn opposite, I continued. “Someone told me you called my mother a Goody Two-shoes at this dinner party recently.”... Elizabeth frowned at this, gazing stonily at me. “I don’t remember saying that,” she said definitively, looking remarkably to me as though she actually did remember saying it. [Then] Elizabeth rose, her head held high, and imperiously disappeared back into the house, only to reappear a short time later. She made her way back over to the pool, where I’d returned to watch Billie and/or avoid Elizabeth. “I’m going to push you in the pool,” she informed me. Not in a threatening way, but more as if catching me up on the afternoon’s upcoming events. I studied her. Was this a threat or a ... threat? “Do it,” I challenged her, causing her to tilt her head to one side, suspiciously, her eyes narrowing.... We continued holding each other’s gaze for the briefest amount of time, until, finally, she pushed me gleefully into her pool, causing the warm water to spray high into the air, wetting any guests who might have had the anecdotal luck to be in range. Then, with both my knees bent, I pushed my bare feet off the bottom of the pool, catapulting me back up through the water’s once-smooth surface. And, catching the fastball of my breath, I drew whatever amount of the available sunlight into my lungs and, gasping, broke free and was finally able to begin the friendship with my former stepmother. opposite: elizabeth taylor, eddie fisher and debbie reynolds in 1958. a year later, fisher divorced wife reynolds for taylor. this page: carrie fisher
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With the grounding of the space shuttles, the center of gravity for the American space program has shifted west from Cape Canaveral and Houston to La CaĂąada Flintridge. Manned flights have been eclipsed by the thrills of robotic vehicles whose command post is Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a few miles from the Rose Bowl. The recent landing of the Curiosity rover on Mars has put the facility front-andcenter, inspiring a new passion for space exploration. BY JOSEPH L E MOYNE
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PREVIOUS SPREAD: A REnDERIng Of mARS, whERE nASA’S cURIOSIty ROVER—DESIgnED, DEVElOPED AnD ASSEmblED At jEt PROPUlSIOn lAbORAtORy— lAnDED tO ASSESS thE POSSIbIlIty Of mIcRObIAl lIfE. thIS PAgE: cURIOSIty mADE thIS SElf-PORtRAIt In mARS’ gAlE cRAtER. OPPOSItE, AbOVE: A PAnORAmIc VIEw Of cURIOSIty’S lAnDIng SItE On mARS. mOUnt ShARP cAn bE SEEn 12 mIlES AwAy. bElOw: thE mARS ScIEncE lAbORAtORy tEAm At jPl REActS tO thE nEwS Of cURIOSIty’S SAfE lAnDIng On mARS.
pounds. In describing the vehicle’s mechanical systems, he suggests there is nothing particularly extraordinary about them individually, but they are cross-connected in sophisticated ways. “The computer is actually slower than the PC on your desk,” says Welch, but says that exposure to massive amounts of radiation creates serious technical challenges. “Computer chips resistant to those levels of radiation are required, but that technology lags about five years behind,” he explains. Welch is one of six tactical mission managers for the Mars Science Laboratory—one is on duty at all times—a position he describes as “commander-in-chief” charged with juggling requests from a large team of scientists and engineers, some located far from Pasadena. For every major task, the mission manager assesses the risk of conducting the operation, balancing the urgency of a request against the safety and welfare of the mission. Louise Jandura has been at JPL since 1989 and is the sampling system chief engineer at Mars Science Laboratory. Because she led a team that designed and built the system, she experiences a thrill every time Curiosity’s robotic arm collects and processes Martian soil or rock. Growing up in New Jersey, she went from holding the flashlight for a father passionate about cars and gadgets to earning two degrees at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Now that her own machinery is operating on a distant planet, she’s grateful that her parents never discouraged her interest in math and science as a young girl. Jandura began in the development phase of the mission in April 2005, after working on prior Mars rovers Sprit and Opportunity. Her team went about creating a robotic arm whose “hand” includes tools such as a camera, drill and alpha particle X-ray spectrometer to evaluate mineral content. From the very beginning, Jandura was aware of the spirit of teamwork that permeates every mission at JPL. Welch describes it as a culture of camaraderie, but one that encourages constant intellectual challenges from peers. “I feel so privileged to work with such hardworking and dedicated people, but also people who are not afraid to question one another,” Welch says. Because these projects allow little room for error, says Welch, “You have to put your ego aside.” The challenges from colleagues are never personal, she explains, but in the spirit of furthering a common goal. Among all positions, the rover planners have the lowest rate of turnover, according to Welch, who explains their jobs come closest to the fantasies of computer gamers. The RPs, as they’re called, send commands to Curiosity, putting wheels in motion and articulating the robotic
PREVIOUS SPREAD: nASA/jPl-cAltEch; bORDER, X-RAy: nASA/cXc/U.mIch./S.OEy, IR: nASA/jPl, OPtIcAl: ESO/wfI/2.2-m. thIS PAgE: nASA/jPl-cAltEch/mAlIn SPAcE ScIEncE SyStEmS
JPL
is managed by Pasadena’s worldrenowned California Institute of Technology (Caltech) for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The Crown City’s relationship with the heavens began in the 1930s when Caltech professor Theodore von Kármán began testing rockets in the northern reaches of the Arroyo Seco, a canyon that transverses the city. At approximately the same time as this pioneering work in rocket propulsion began, Albert Einstein was a visiting scholar at Caltech. In 1943, the current site of JPL was established as an Army facility managed by the university, and when jurisdiction was passed to newly created NASA in 1958, the course was set for the exploration of space. The institution currently occupies 177 acres on the edge of Pasadena, adjacent to the site of von Kármán’s earliest experiments in rocketry. Now home to more than 5,000 employees, contractors and Caltech grad students, it has the look and feel of a college campus, and you might even spot some astrophysicists and aerospace engineers heading to their labs in shorts and T-shirts. Nothing in years has invigorated the American public’s enthusiasm for space exploration more than the joyful scenes from the JPL control room when the Curiosity rover made its gentle landing onto the floor of Mars’ Gale Crater on Aug. 6, 2012. Suddenly—arguably, for the first time in a generation—space exploration was cool again, and in an era of dwindling resources, it could not have come at a better time. The new spirit of exploration was given another rocket boost in October, when the space shuttle Endeavour landed at Los Angeles International Airport and was paraded through the streets of L.A. on the way to its new home at the California Science Center in Exposition Park. Massachusetts native Rick Welch, who holds a doctorate in mechanical engineering, is a 20-year veteran with JPL who began his work on campus with Sojourner, the first rover to land on Mars. Although he was always interested in space exploration and would follow missions on TV as a child, Welch never envisioned himself working as a NASA engineer until he arrived in Pasadena for an interview in 1992. “As soon as I walked into the building with the sandbox, where they tested the rovers … I thought to myself, ‘You can really get paid for this?’ ” he recalls. Because of his tenure with JPL, Welch appreciates just how far the program has come, culminating with the current mission of Curiosity, referred to as the Mars Science Laboratory. The six-wheel Curiosity weighs a full ton, reports Welch, who notes Sojourner was a mere 25
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TOP: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS; bottom, NASA/Bill Ingalls
arm. “It’s the most exciting of any of the day-to-day jobs, but there’s also a lot of stress involved,” says Welch. After beginning with a blank sheet of paper in 2005, Jandura could not be happier to see Curiosity’s sample retrieval system working as effectively as it is, analyzing mineral content of the red planet. “It’s hard to overstate how pleased and proud I am of this rover,” she says. While Jandura tends to focus more on the hardware itself, Welch takes the opportunity to dream about a mission in which the samples collected by Jandura’s machinery might be returned home for in-depth analysis. He believes such a mission could occur as early as 2020. “That’s the holy grail of missions,” he says, but cautions, “It ain’t cheap.” Future funding for JPL is clearly on the minds of the entire staff, but the current euphoria over the Mars Science Laboratory is far more pleasant than thoughts of congressional budget debates. Welch has had plenty of experience visiting schools to discuss his missions at JPL, previously at the behest of his daughter, now 15. “She thought it was pretty cool that her dad worked for NASA,” he recalls, but jokes that, like most teenagers, she’s less impressed with dad these days. However, it is the response from those schoolchildren that reminds Welch of why he works at JPL. “You see the interest in the eyes of those kids,” he says, as they fire off questions about the universe with an enthusiasm reserved for youth. “It’s about instilling the next genera-
tion with a sense of adventure and the thrill of doing the impossible,” explains Welch. “It’s not about making a profit but answering questions about the universe around us.” Jandura was recently charmed by an awestruck 7-year-old fan who inquired of her by email, “Did you ever get to touch the rover?” Both of these engineers are gratified by the enthusiastic public response to Curiosity and the million people who gathered to witness Endeavour’s final journey through the streets of Los Angeles. Jandura says that when the shuttle did its flyover by JPL before landing at Los Angeles International Airport, the entire Mars Science Laboratory staff stood outside—on a simulated Martian landscape called the Mars Yard—to view the tribute. A variety of equipment carried on Endeavour was built at JPL, including the Wide Field and Planetary Camera 2 carried on a Hubble Space Telescope servicing mission in 1993. That voyage corrected problems with the legendary telescope, ensuring 16 years of images of the universe transmitted back home. “It’s very gratifying to look at Mars, a tiny dot in the sky, and realize we put our spacecraft on it,” says Jandura. She shares what she tells some young engineers she mentors: “There are a lot of ups and downs along the way and sometimes you wonder if you’ll make it through.... But there’s nothing that can describe the feeling you get from building a piece of hardware and seeing it operate on another planet.”
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food
Ink
the tattoos of l.a. chefs express their commitment to their craft. By Roger Grody
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this page: michael voltaggio of ink. and ink. sack, both on l.a.’s melrose avenue, is covered in body art. opposite, from top: From Ink., cuttlefish with green papaya, peanut-coconut cream and black lime; carrots with coconut milk “ice” and cardamom “soil.”
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previous spread: ed anderson. this page: dale berman. opposite: wesley wong
W
hen most people get ready for work in the morning, they can take advantage of various opportunities to express themselves at the office. Women can show off new pumps or try out a distinctive perfume. Men have fewer options, but a colorful necktie can set one apart from the masses of other suits pouring into the same high-rise. In a professional kitchen, where uniforms and behavior are as regimented as the military, chefs don’t have the luxury of dressing up. But body art, like cooking, is a more personal and creative expression. Old warriors such as Paul Bocuse, Joël Robuchon and Wolfgang Puck are not covered in tattoos. But tats have become so prevalent in the kitchen that they almost become a uniform of their own, and as those older chefs retire, there will be precious few cooks without them in any professional kitchen. What must be appreciated, even by those who may have an initial aversion to tattoos, is the incredible variety of body art you find among kitchen professionals. Much of it reflects culinary themes, including cutlery and butchering diagrams, while other images are inspired by pop culture. Some, like a precise ruler inked on a finger, are purely utilitarian. In part, the trend mirrors the sudden ascendancy of chefs to rock-star status in our society. One of the most prominent exhibitors of culinary body art in L.A. is Michael Voltaggio, the brooding Top Chef champion who wears his restaurant’s name, Ink., on his sleeve. That elegant script has plenty of company. “I got my first when I was 15,” the 34-year-old chef volunteers, identifying a clover on his ankle. “The rest,” he says, “is history.” On the inside of his left forearm is a spoon with a skull head, and just beneath the left cuff of his chef’s jacket is a small, relatively primitive fork-and-knife pairing. His right arm is completely sleeved in a full-color leafy, floral display with some grittier images embedded. On his left bicep is a punked-out version of the umbrella-carrying girl from the Morton Salt logo, complete with fishnet stockings, a skull-and-bone motif on her apron and her own spider web tattoos. At Ink., Voltaggio uses judicious amounts of molecular gastronomy in dishes such as cuttlefish with green papaya, peanut-coconut cream and black lime, and scallops with eggyolk gnocchi and mushroom “hay.” He also operates a sandwich shop around the corner called Ink. Sack, which turns out a corned beef tongue Reuben sandwich and pork belly bánh mì. A tattoo on Voltaggio’s left forearm features a light bulb with the word “genius” penned above it. The chef, one of the few to successfully incorporate innovative techniques without appearing too gimmicky, is surely one of America’s most promising chefs, although maybe not its most humble. Ludovic “Ludo” Lefebvre earned his stripes at some of
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Paris’ great temples of gastronomy, such as Alain Passard’s L’Arpège, before arriving in L.A. Here, he wowed the locals at the renowned L’Orangerie while still in his mid-20s, then unleashed a more daring style at Bastide a few years later. Often charming, sometimes rebellious, Lefebvre no longer allows himself to be restricted by a single dining room. His LudoBites, an itinerant dining experience in the spirit of the pop-up boutiques of the fashion industry, has been far more influential than most permanent brick-and-mortar restaurants. For a few weeks at a time, the chef moves into a host kitchen—usually a laid-back, unpretentious establishment—and executes menus filled with imaginative dishes, sometimes utilizing molecular gastronomy. Recent dishes have included velvety chicken liver mousse on “crackers” of crispy skin, deconstructed vichyssoise with shaved truffles, and uni crème brûlée. Each successive edition of LudoBites is anxiously anticipated and its history has been documented in the recently released book LudoBites: Recipes and Stories From the PopUp Restaurants of Ludo Lefebvre. “I have no idea how many tattoos I have,” says the heavily inked chef, noting he got his first one (a tiny orchid) at a parlor on Sunset Boulevard 15 years ago, shortly after arriving in L.A. None of them, with the exception of his business logo, is food-related, focusing instead on spiritual revelations and family; prominently featured are wife Krissy and their twins, Luca and Rêve. “I don’t think my tattoos really reflect my work as a chef,” he says, but adds, “I’m sure if you look at some of my menus and compare them to the art I was getting at the time, there would probably be some correlation.… For example, Japanese art and Japanese ingredients.” On one of Lefebvre’s arms is the LudoBites logo, a rooster (the centuries-old symbol of France) brandishing a chef’s knife. Above it is some scripted French that roughly translates to: “Like the Buddha says, you have no god, you have no master … follow your way.” Like Lefebvre, Roy Choi is a true culinary revolutionary, another chef who changed the way Angelenos eat without even having a permanent kitchen in which to cook. Now he owns several bona fide restaurants—Chego on the Westside, A-Frame in Culver City and Sunny Spot in Venice—but it all started with his Kogi Korean BBQ-To-Go truck. Kogi specializes in a fusion of the two local cuisines Choi was most familiar with growing up in L.A.: Korean and Mexican. Kogi, not just a major hit but a delicious metaphor for multicultural L.A., has become so popular that a fleet of four trucks now rolls through Southland streets. The pioneering concept is also credited with jumpstarting the entire gourmet food-truck phenomenon, a trend with legs not only in L.A. but across the country.
Choi has numerous tattoos, and like Voltaggio and Lefebvre, one of them is the name of his business. On his right forearm is the flaming Kogi logo with the words “por vida” (“for life”) beneath it in ornamental script. From the truck, there’s still nothing like Choi’s signature Korean short rib tacos, but sesame mayo- and kimchee-topped sliders are crowd-pleasers as well. At Sunny Spot, a Caribbean vibe prevails, with Cuban sandwiches, black bean soup and Jamaican roasted lamb with pickled mango—all reinforced by reggae music and Red Stripe beer. In addition to a full sleeve of colorful autumn harvestmeets-punk rock, Chateau Marmont executive chef Carolynn Spence, formerly of New York’s the Spotted Pig, has what might be considered the ultimate working hand of a chef. She’s got a very useful ruler inked along the edge of her hand for precise cutting and two concentric circles on her palm— one for a teaspoon measurement, the other for a tablespoon. Emblazoned on her arm is the word “terroir,” the term winemakers use to capture the essence of a locale, and various vegetables have also been inked through the years. At the Chateau, she puts her tools to good use, quietly rejuvenating the storied hotel’s restaurant and bar with dishes including black truffle arancini, lamb shepherd’s pie and a killer buttermilk fried chicken that she serves on Sundays. At the 170-seat Umamicatessen in downtown’s onceforgotten Broadway Theatre District, burger maestro Adam Fleischman has assembled five dining concepts in one cavernous space: his signature Umami Burger eatery, a kosher-style
OPPOSITE: ludo lefebvre of ludobites pop-up restaurant has a plethora of tattoos including ludobites’ logo of a knife-wielding rooster. This page, above: Lefebvre’s striped bass with garden vegetables and yuzu aïoli
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berries from chateau marmont chef carolynn spence opposite: spence has several food-related tattoos including three practical ones: a ruler drawn on the side of her hand, and circles indicating teaspoon and tablespoon measurements on her palm.
deli, gourmet doughnut shop, artisan cocktail bar and the intensely pork-centric Pigg. The latter is courtesy of acclaimed Bay Area chef Chris Cosentino, the charismatic advocate of organ meats who owns San Francisco’s Incanto and Baccalone. Well suited for his “piggish” new venture, one of Cosentino’s tattoos is a butcher’s diagram of a hog in which each cut of meat is outlined in ink. Surely it’s more inspirational than educational, as this chef hardly needs a cheat sheet. At Pigg, items such as pork liver pâté with orange marmalade, crispy pig’s ear with “brainnaise” (aïoli blended with hog’s brain) and a crudo dish of Spain’s prized jamón ibérico take porkophilia to a whole new level. Chef Bradley Miller has begun to elevate the cooking at the romantic creekside Inn of the Seventh Ray in Topanga Canyon, and the place is gradually shedding its reputation as a vegan-dominated New Age retreat. These days, guests might begin with roasted beets with goat cheese foam or beef tartare with a 65-degree egg before moving on to indulgent, playful items including hoisin-glazed lamb belly or miso-braised short rib with Wagyu jerky. Equal parts amusing and disturbing is a tattoo on Miller’s forearm. It’s similar to an anatomy poster from high school science lab, but with various parts of the human body called out like cuts from a side of beef. “Most tatted-up chefs have a butcher’s diagram of a pig somewhere on them,” he says. “Very iconic and very cool. I just wanted to poke [fun] at that, ... go off the grid and run with it.” He explains the tattoo was inspired by a Mark Ryden painting (who, like Miller, grew up in a butcher shop) and that he and his tattoo artist deliberated for months before proceeding. On his chest, Miller has an image of the Virgin Mary holding a steak in one hand and a light bulb, cracking open like
this page and opposite: dale berman
above: Buttermilk panna cotta with fresh
an egg, above the other. Miller explains that he wanted to convey his spiritual devotion to his craft. “My religion is culinary and cooking.... It sounds a little hard-core, but this lifestyle kinda is.” Addressing the popularity of body art among young chefs, Miller suggests it simply reflects their creative consciousness. “Getting something permanently placed on your body is pretty passionate, and it’s for the whole world to see,” he says. Husband and wife Nick Roberts and Brooke Williamson put their classic training to good use at a pair of relatively undiscovered gastropubs, the Tripel in Playa del Rey and Hudson House in Redondo Beach. Their dishes are fun and familiar, but executed with a sense of confidence that speaks to their impressive résumés. Williamson honed her skills in L.A. under Ken Frank and Michael McCarty, while Roberts polished his craft in New York at the restaurants of heavyweight chefs Daniel Boulud and Alain Ducasse. At the Tripel, items such as spicy coconut-curry biscuits, charred baby octopus and marinated flatiron steak delight regulars, and Hudson House offers a pretzel roll burger, fried cauliflower fritters and brown sugar pork ribs. Williamson has a variety of tattoos and all of them were thoughtfully considered, such as the baby handprints of son Hudson on her left shoulder blade. (Roberts has Hudson’s footprints on his waist.) On their honeymoon in Tahiti, both got tattoos incorporating the local tiaré flower, and this pair of romantics gets inked together every year on their anniversary, adding matching stars to their arms (five and counting). During a particularly challenging period in her career, Williamson added her only culinary-related tattoo: a classic French sauce spoon accompanied by a kanji symbol meaning, “Never miss out on an opportunity because of fear.” Williamson observes, “For chefs, tattoos are a way of expressing their creativity in a different outlet.” She recalls that she began getting inked once she felt certain that she’d never have to work in an office. “I feel most safe and secure in the kitchen,” says the recent Top Chef contestant. Josh Loeb and wife Zoe Nathan are among the most prolific restaurateurs in L.A. The young couple’s burgeoning empire includes Rustic Canyon Wine Bar & Seasonal Kitchen, Huckleberry Bakery & Cafe, Sweet Rose Creamery at the Brentwood Country Mart and hot new pizzeria Milo & Olive. Thirty-year-old Nathan, a talented pastry chef, has a tattoo on the inside of her forearm that is not brash or bold, but a lyrical passage from the 13th-century mystic poet Rumi. In relatively basic, inconspicuous script it reads: “Let the beauty we love be what we do.” That’s the kind of tattoo not even a mother might object to.
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Bell & Ross and the evolution of military timepieces
F ro m THE
P o ckET w ri sT To THE
For Bell & Ross, the Swiss watchmaker, watch design is always about paying tribute to the military. 2011 brings yet another reimagining of the brand’s original source of inspiration. Bell & Ross designers went all the way back to the origins of military timepieces to design new watches for its Vintage collection that reflect the beginnings of the wristwatch while retaining the brand’s signature style. For the first time ever, Bell & Ross is introducing a pocket watch to their collection: the PW1, also known as Pocket Watch 1. This watch is an elegant interpretation of the first timepieces that were used in the early 1900’s by the military. The arrival of the first airplanes and the beginnings of modern aeronautics necessitated the development of pilot watches that were both functional and legible during flight. This led to a turning point in the history of timepieces. Pilots took their pocket watches and secured them to their wrists.This simple act would forever change the direction of timepiece design and is represented in the new collection by the WW1, also known as Wrist Watch 1, a 45 mm mechanical watch that combines the elegant details of a bygone era with the brand’s classic and functional design.
This same elegant and classic design is present in the Vintage collection that features a smaller 41 mm dial and draws its inspiration from the pilot watches of the1940’s. All of these models share the brand’s founding principles: reliability, functionality, precision and legibility.
Just like the WW1 and Vintage Original, the iconic BR01 takes its inspiration from the military, particularly from the instruments found in military aircraft cockpits. The unique round-in-square design also has a functional and legible dial with a Swiss made manufacturing.
WW1
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Watches of the 20th century reimagined and reintroduced into the 21st century, the latest collection emphasizes the brand’s passion and admiration of extreme professions and the past. We can only imagine what the future may bring.
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AviAtion BR 03-92 Automatic - vintAge BR 126 Chronograph Westime Beverly Hills 254 North Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills 路 CA 90210 (310) 271-0000 Bell & Ross inc. +1.888.307.7887 . information@bellrossusa.com . e-Boutique: www.bellross.com
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Neighborhoods
BEVERLY HILLS For luxury brands, Beverly Hills is the ne plus ultra of addresses. David Yurman, Barbara Bui, Richard Mille and Rolex recently joined grandes dames such as Cartier and Chanel on Rodeo Drive. Barneys, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue on Wilshire Boulevard anchor the retail district’s south end. Old-school celebrities descend from manses north of Sunset Boulevard or in adjacent Bel-Air and Holmby Hills to dine with their publicists and agents at Caulfield’s or the remodeled Spago, and all eagerly anticipate the opening of the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts this fall. Neighboring Westwood is home to UCLA and the Geffen Playhouse, while to the south, Culver City offers a hip art and design scene, plus access to downtown via Metro’s new Expo Line.
Downtown From Gustavo Dudamel’s conducting to hot restaurants such as FigOly, the Parish and Mo-Chica, downtown’s attractions have multiplied. The new Grand Park stretches east from the Music Center, home to the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Ahmanson Theatre and Mark Taper Forum. The Museum of Contemporary Art is nearby. L.A. Live, featuring Nokia Theatre and Staples Center, offers stylish casual eateries, as does the renovated Figat7th complex. Olvera Street, Chinatown and Little Tokyo showcase L.A.’s ethnic history, while the jewelry, flower, art and fashion districts attract savvy shoppers. The Expo Line connects downtown to Exposition Park, where the California Science Center’s latest addition, space shuttle Endeavour, is on display.
Malibu Surfers, beachcombers and hikers cherish the ‘Bu’s 21 miles of worldrenowned coastline, trail-laced parks and acres of rugged canyons. So do celebrities, who enjoy relative privacy ensconced in some of the priciest, most luxurious seaside and hillside estates in the country. Meanwhile, shoppers of all persuasions partake in the upscale outdoor shopping and dining at Malibu Country Mart, whose high–end boutiques include Chrome Hearts and Madison, and the adjacent Malibu Lumber Yard, featuring Kitson and James Perse. For dining with an ocean view, casual eats at Malibu Seafood or fine Japanese fare at Nobu Malibu, in its fashionable new oceanfront location, are equally enticing. East of Malibu are the bohemian enclave of Topanga and tony Pacific Palisades, home of Will Rogers State Historic Park and the Getty Villa.
LONG BEACH & SAN PEDRO Twenty-five miles south of downtown, Long Beach features an airport and a busy seaport as well as splashy tourist destinations including the Queen Mary Ship & Seaport, the Long Beach Performing Arts Center, the Pike at Rainbow Harbor dining, shopping and entertainment complex, and the family-friendly Aquarium of the Pacific. Trendy dining and nightlife spots beckon along Pine Avenue and 2nd Street in Belmont Shore, while vintage shops pack East 4th Street’s “Retro Row.” In the neighboring port city of San Pedro, the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium at Cabrillo Beach offers hands-on attractions, Ports O’ Call Village features shops and restaurants, and the decommissioned USS Iowa welcomes museumgoers aboard at the Port of Los Angeles.
beverly hills and long beach, edwin santiago; malibu, john linden
Los Angeles County comprises MANY cities and communities. HERE ARE THE MOST VISITED.
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The most entertaining place on the planet. STAPLES Center Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Los Angeles
The GRAMMY Museum® Club Nokia The Conga Room Regal Cinemas L.A. LIVE Stadium 14
Boca ESPN Zone L.A. LIVE The Farm of Beverly Hills Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar gLAnce Wine Bar ION Rooftop Pool Bar Katsuya L.A. LIVE
LA Market by Kerry Simon The Mixing Room Lawry’s Carvery Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge New Zealand Natural Ice Cream Rock’n Fish Rosa Mexicano
Starbucks Trader Vic’s Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill WP24 by Wolfgang Puck Yard House
lalive.com
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VENICE The countercultural vibe and grittiness that define Ocean Front Walk and Muscle Beach dominate many people’s conceptions of Venice. But, as GQ magazine recognized when it christened the city’s Abbot Kinney Boulevard “the coolest block in America,” the “other” Venice is a wickedly stylish, boho-chic neighborhood dotted with don’t-miss galleries, shops, bars and eateries— and let’s not forget those romantic, century-old Italianesque canals. Abbot Kinney is lined with boutiques including Principessa, Jack Spade and a new outpost of Satine, plus trendy restaurants such as Gjelina. Nearby are hot newcomers Sunny Spot and Superba Snack Bar. Along Main Street, which parallels the beach and extends into Santa Monica, more boutiques including Planet Blue alternate with bars and restaurants such as Chaya Venice and Ado.
SANTA MONICA Whether you’re after a beach day or an urban fix, Santa Monica has you covered. Draws along the 3.5 miles of sandy coastline include Santa Monica Pier with its attraction-packed Pacific Park, the Annenberg Community Beach House and historic Marion Davies Guest House. Inland, enjoy upscale shopping and dining at independent boutiques and cafes on tony Montana Avenue and laid-back Main Street. More boutiques and eateries, plus your favorite trendy chains, populate Third Street Promenade downtown, whose three-block pedestrian stretch terminates at the open-air Santa Monica Place shopping center. For fine dining, hot newcomers include Tar & Roses, the Misfit and Blue Plate Taco downtown, and Milo and Olive on Wilshire Boulevard.
SILVER LAKE & LOS FELIZ Although Forbes magazine crowned Silver Lake “America’s best hipster neighborhood,” you needn’t sport ironic facial hair to appreciate its high density of food trucks, coffee shops, farmers markets, midcentury modern architecture and locally owned bars, restaurants and boutiques. Sunset Junction in Silver Lake is the epicenter of cool, featuring Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea, charming boutiques such as ReForm School and the Silver Lake Conservatory of Music. A similarly eclectic vibe reverberates along Vermont and Hillhurst avenues in neighboring Los Feliz, where hot spot MessHall and 24-hour diner Fred 62 serve casual eats. To the north, Griffith Park offers miles of trails, Travel Town, the L.A. Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Greek Theatre and iconic Griffith Observatory.
WEST HOLLYWOOD The triumvirate of shopping, dining and nightlife reign in the trend-setting city of West Hollywood. Rag & Bone and Dash recently joined favorites Marc by Marc Jacobs and Kitson on Melrose Avenue, and Joe’s Jeans is new to Melrose Place. To the south, West 3rd Street hosts indie boutiques and cafes. Nearby, the retail, entertainment and dining options at the Grove and the adjacent Farmers Market make the complex an all-in-one destination. The Pacific Design Center at San Vicente Boulevard and Melrose Avenue anchors the city’s art, fashion and design district, aka the Avenues, bounded by Beverly Boulevard to the south. To the north, the fabled Sunset Strip buzzes after dark with clubs, bars and restaurants including notable newcomers Bootsy Bellows, Rock & Reilly’s and Gorge.
edwin santiago; santa monica, ashok sinha
Neighborhoods
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PASADENA From the annual Tournament of Roses to the historic Arts and Crafts–style Gamble House, the city of Pasadena—the “Crown of the Valley”—offers myriad and diverse cultural attractions. Art lovers can visit local institutions such as the Norton Simon Museum, the Pasadena Museum of California Art and the Pacific Asia Museum, while families can get hands-on at the Kidspace Children’s Museum. The Rose Bowl flea market lures treasure hunters, and the scienceminded can tour Caltech and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Downtown, historic Old Pasadena bustles with charming boutiques and dining spots such as the beer-centric Haven Gastropub + Brewery. In nearby San Marino, the Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens encompasses 120 acres.
SAN FERNANDO VALLEY Nicknamed the “Valley of the Stars” thanks to famous residents of yore including Bob Hope and John Wayne, the San Fernando Valley today is home to the entertainment industry’s biggest studios, with more than 100 sound stages producing hit movies and TV shows. Free TV audience tickets and back-lot tours at studios including Warner Bros. and NBC offer a behind-the-scenes look, and Universal CityWalk and adjacent Universal Studios Hollywood (with its newest attraction, Transformers: the Ride 3-D) draw visitors with rides, restaurants, nightclubs and other venues. Shopping and finedining options abound in downtown Burbank, the NoHo Arts District in North Hollywood and along Ventura Boulevard.
HOLLYWOOD The iconic 45-foot-high Hollywood sign presides over this district, which is world-famous for being the heart of the motion picture industry. Visitors flock to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and restored movie theaters such as El Capitan Theatre and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre to get a piece of the (lights, camera) action. The Hollywood & Highland Center provides even more opportunities to tap into the Hollywood experience past and present, offering shopping, dining and the Dolby Theatre, site of the Academy Awards. Meanwhile, locals hit the club scene along Hollywood and Cahuenga boulevards, enjoy new releases at ArcLight Cinemas and take in live music alfresco at the beloved Hollywood Bowl, whose regular season runs from June to September.
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SOUTH BAY Laid-back, affluent beach culture prevails in Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach. Here, waves, white sand and an oceanfront bike/pedestrian path beckon surfers, volleyball players and other outdoor enthusiasts, while stylish boutiques such as Wright’s in Manhattan and Gum Tree in Hermosa entice shoppers. Top-notch restaurants including Manhattan’s the Strand House and M.B. Post and Hermosa’s Abigaile, plus a lively bar and club scene near Hermosa and Redondo’s piers, keep the “Beach Cities” humming at night. Farther south, Terranea Resort and Trump National Golf Club perch on Palos Verdes Peninsula’s rugged ocean bluffs, and to the east, Plaza El Segundo offers prime retail in the shadow of LAX, featuring trendy national chains such as Lululemon and Anthropologie.
EDWiN SANTiAGO; SOUTH BAY, ASHOK SiNHA
NEiGHBORHOODS
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ExpEriEncE World-class shopping, dining and pErforming arts,
southeRn califoRnia style. 250 Boutiques 30 RestauRants 4 PeRfoRming aRts Venues
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san Diego fwy (405) at BRistol st., costa mesa, ca 800.782.8888 southcoastplaza.com/traveler
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spending time
EDWIN SANTIAGO
SHOPPING What seduces Hollywood seduces the world, a fact not lost on the world’s great fashion houses; Designers want to dress the stars, so they all have a presence in L.A. The global influence of the city’s home-grown shops completes the L.A. story.
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LOOK BOOK VIVIENNE WE ST WOO D
Los Angeles’ diverse and exciting array of shopping venues sparkles with the best and brightest in fashion, beauty, accessories and gifts. Rodeo Drive is a true gem among shopping streets, so it makes sense that luxury jeweler David Yurman’s West Coast flagship salon would be here. In addition to pavé rings in a rainbow of gemstones are the men’s, bridal and “high jewelry” collections. 310.888.8618, davidyurman.com
DAV I D YURMAN
Vivienne Westwood‘s punk rockmeets-high fashion sensibility adds edge to designer-boutique-packed Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood. Westwood’s first U.S. outpost, a trilevel store, features the Gold Label couture collection, Red Label readyto-wear line plus the Anglomania and Vivienne Westwood Man ranges. 323.951.0021, viviennewestwood.com
R E B E C C A TAY L O R
Angelenos are keen on jeans, and many of the highest-end denim labels are based here, including Joe’s Jeans. On exclusive Melrose Place, the Joe’s Jeans boutique reveals new possibilities in the classic five-pocket silhouette, including eye-popping hues and luxe materials such as leather and suede. 323.944.0656, joesjeans.com “Jouer” means “to play” en français, and shoppers at Nordstrom at Santa Monica Place will be tempted to play with the vast array of beauty products on offer here, including those of Jouer Cosmetics. Jouer products are brilliantly designed to snap onto one another, forming customizable palettes. 310.752.2701, nordstrom.com
NORDSTROM
JOE’S JEANS
Rebecca Taylor’s first L.A. boutique adds a sweet touch to alreadyfabulous South Robertson Boulevard. This West Coast flagship carries the brand’s entire flirty-fresh clothing and accessories collection, including this chic tweed shift, plus the designer’s picks from other favorite labels. 310.734.0599, rebeccataylor.com
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TOPSHOP TOPMAN – Coming Soon NORDSTROM APPLE MICHAEL KORS ANTHROPOLOGIE COACH MADEWELL M •A•C COSMETICS AMERICAN GIRL PLACE BARNEYS NEW YORK CO-OP UGG AUSTRALIA VINCE KIEHL’S SINCE 1851 NIKE RUNNING SWAROVSKI J.CREW MENS SHOP Partial Listing
189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036 323.900.8080 thegrovela.com
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LOOK BOOK Opening Ceremony is a cutting-edge fashion lover’s dream, with two stories of wares and wearables from the highest-end and hippest of fashion designers, including Pasadena-based Rodarte, Comme des Garçons and Suno. Pick up these sky-high Nicholas Kirkwood pumps and your head may remain in the clouds long after your shopping spree is over. 310.652.1120, openingceremony.us
OPENING CEREMONY
S AT I N E
L.A. clotheshorses look to Satine owner Jeannie Lee for the lustworthy labels of the moment. Get the latest scoop, and scoop up the latest women’s fashions, at Satine on West 3rd Street and its new sister store on Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Find Belle Noel jewelry (seen here), Jenni Kayne flats and Carven skirts. 323.655.2142; 310.450.6218. satineboutique.com Kelly Wearstler’s color-soaked interior designs are sprinkled across the L.A. landscape, from Santa Monica’s Viceroy Hotel to million-dollar lofts downtown. Wearstler combines her twin passions for interior and fashion design at her Melrose Avenue shop, where her books and home decor are sold alongside accessories and ready-to-wear. 323.895.7880, kellywearstler.com
K E L LY W E A R S T L E R OPTICAL CONNECTION
R AG & B O N E
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How is it, considering the legions of Hollywood A-listers who profess love for Rag & Bone, that the L.A. flagship store has only just opened? If size matters, with 4,000 square feet of retail space, the brand’s bilevel space in West Hollywood is its largest. The men’s and women’s collections, jeans, shoes and accessories are offered here. 424.245.4816, rag-bone.com Find designer frames with specs appeal at Optical Connection, a Studio City optical boutique that has opened a new location in BelAir. Oliver Peoples, Dior, Persol and Tom Ford designs are sold here as well as those of L.A.-based Sama Eyewear. Her Pyramid of Diamonds style is shown here. 818.766.4848; 310.474.5174. optical-connection.com
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Flagship Store located at 313 North Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Robinʼs Jean
Coming to America...
The Denim Pioneer, The Visionary,The Father and The Leader...
Robin arrived in Los Angeles in 1996. His talents, youth and good looks caught the eye of the best denim companies in Los Angeles. At the time when most denim was designed around basic styles, Robin’s attention to fabrics, washes and detail made him the man with the Midas touch and it was not long before his reputation began to soar.
The Birth Of Robinʼs Jean... In 2005, eager to produce high-end jeans that were truly his own and that would reflect the passions of his childhood dreams, he founded Robin’s Jean.
Robin loves living in America. He is fascinated with the American Indian, the warrior spirit, and the Symbolized by gold wings, Robin’s Jean fight for freedom. A lover at captures Robin’s dream of freedom and flight. heart, his soul lives for the freeWearing a pair of Robin’s Jean makes you feel dom of the open road and the alive, free, spontaneous, and able to do big sky. His passion for motoranything you put your heart and soul into,” says cycles, vintage cars and old Robin. school cinema became the inspiThe 2,500 square foot raw space was designed with an industrial feel to embody Robin’s rock-and-roll vintage ration for the new brand. Today The essence of Robin’s Jean can be captured at: Robin L.A. with wife Thelives storeinfeatures all his of the men, women, kids, and accessory categories of Robin’s Jean. 313 North Beverly Drive in the heart of Beverly Hills, Isabelle, twin girls Chloe and California 90210 (310) 786-7813 and our new MarieLou, and son Cheyenn. location 60 Grand Street in Soho, New York 10013 Theywarm are the center of his childhood life and dreams. With high demand, Robin’s Jean has quickly grown a celebrity and fashion energy and (212) 226-2191 or online at www.robinsjean.com insider’s fan base. The brand overrides the need for pomp and circumstance, placing value on comfort, construction inspiration. and distinction.
With The Ongoing Success of Flagship Stores in Beverly Hills and Soho, Robin's Jean Continues To Fly High.
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Robinʼs Jean
Coming to America...
The Denim Pioneer, The Visionary,The Father and The Leader... Robin loves living in America. He is fascinated with the American Indian, the warrior spirit, and the fight for freedom. A lover at heart, his soul lives for the freedom of the open road and the big sky. His passion for motorcycles, vintage cars and old school cinema became the inspiration for the new brand. Today Robin lives in L.A. with his wife Isabelle, twin girls Chloe and MarieLou, and son Cheyenn. They are the center of his life and inspiration.
Robin arrived in Los Angeles in 1996. His talents, youth and good looks caught the eye of the best denim companies in Los Angeles. At the time when most denim was designed around basic styles, Robin’s attention to fabrics, washes and detail made him the man with the Midas touch and it was not long before his reputation began to soar.
The Birth Of Robinʼs Jean... In 2005, eager to produce high-end jeans that were truly his own and that would reflect the passions of his childhood dreams, he founded Robin’s Jean. Symbolized by gold wings, Robin’s Jean captures Robin’s dream of freedom and flight. Wearing a pair of Robin’s Jean makes you feel alive, free, spontaneous, and able to do anything you put your heart and soul into,” says Robin. The essence of Robin’s Jean can be captured at: 313 North Beverly Drive in the heart of Beverly Hills, California 90210
(310) 786-7813 and our new
location 60 Grand Street in Soho, New York 10013 (212) 226-2191 or online at www.robinsjean.com
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SHOPPING RAW DENIM AT DEN.M BAR DOWNTOWN
SHOPPING DESTINATIONS ★ THE AMERICANA AT BRANDCL9000006279 The Americana, from the creators of the Grove and inspired by a 1930s downtown, comprises some 40 retailers, more than a dozen restaurants and the 18-screen Pacific Theatres. Shops include the Art of Shaving, Madewell and Vera Bradley. 889 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.637.8982, americanaatbrand.com
PERSONAL TOUCH There are plenty of perfectly chic items that can be purchased right off a rack or shelf, but several L.A. boutiques offer customization services for one-of-a-kind pieces. Downtown's new Den.m Bar offers exclusively bespoke denim, cut and sewn by hand. Customers can also add detailed buttons, brightly colored zippers and thread, and printed pocket linings. Handbag designer Clare Vivier might be best known for her neon-striped Italian leather totes and clutches, and she monograms select pieces at her Silver Lake boutique. Also offering monogramming is Pyrrha, the West 3rd Street boutique with a strong celebrity clientele. Have your initials engraved on a pendant necklace cast from a centuries-old wax seal. And at Strange Invisible Perfumes in Venice, owner and perfumer Alexandra Balhoutis designs fragrances after lengthy consultations on customers' preferences in weather, food and art.
THE AVENUESCL9000006280 The epicenter of the West Coast’s design industry, this lively district boasts more than 1.5 million square feet of showrooms, shops and galleries. More than 30 art galleries, 100 antique and contemporary furniture stores, 30 restaurants and cafes, and 50 high-end fashion and lifestyle boutiques line the Avenues. Melrose Avenue and Robertson and Beverly boulevards, West Hollywood, avenuesartdesign.com ★ BEVERLY CENTERCL0000022205 This trend-setting marketplace at the edge of Beverly Hills and Hollywood features 160 specialty boutiques and restaurants. Retailers such as Traffic, Ben Sherman and Desigual mingle with luxury brands including Yves Saint Laurent and Jimmy Choo. The center is anchored by Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s Men’s Store. 8500 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.854.0070, beverlycenter.com BRENTWOOD COUNTRY MART81 The collection of cool boutiques at this barn-styled shopping center makes it a no-brainer stop for the celebs who live in nearby mansions. Among winning picks are delicate jewelry from Broken English, minidresses at Calypso and denim at Unionmade. 225 26th St., Santa Monica, brentwoodcountrymart.com
CHINATOWNCL0000022206 The bustling, historic 16-block area just north of Olvera Street features ornate architecture and a wealth of restaurants, herb and tea shops, galleries, food markets and jewelers. Check out the art and antique shops on Chung King Road. Bordered by César E. Chavez Avenue and Bernard Street, Yale and Spring streets, downtown, chinatownla.com ★ CITADEL OUTLETS Located in a former factory inspired by an ornate Assyrian palace, the Citadel is the only outlet center in L.A. Its 115 premium stores include Guess, H&M, Calvin Klein, Coach and Juicy Couture, offering 30 percent to 70 percent off retail prices. 100 Citadel Drive, L.A., 323.888.1724, citadeloutlets.com ★ THE GROVECL0000022207 Inspired by a grand old downtown complete with a trolley, this wildly popular outdoor center has more than 50 shops and nine restaurants set in art deco, Spanish colonial revival, mission and modern buildings. Historic Farmers Market is adjacent. 189 The Grove Drive, L.A., 323.900.8080, thegrovela.com ★ HOLLYWOOD & HIGHLAND CENTERCL0000022208 Home of the Dolby Theatre and the Academy Awards, this Tinseltownthemed retail, dining and entertainment center features dozens of specialty shops, high-tech bowling, nine restaurants and state-of-the-art cinemas. Shop stores such as Louis Vuitton and Sephora. Hollywood Boulevard at Highland Avenue, Hollywood, 323.467.6412, hollywoodandhighland.com JAPANESE VILLAGE PLAZACL0000022209 Nestled among attractions such as the Japanese American Cultural and
Community Center, the Japanese American National Museum and Little Tokyo Square, the plaza features some 40 shops selling Japanese books, art, gifts and sundry specialty products. Consider mochi ice cream at Mikawaya pastry shop. 335 E. 2nd St., downtown, japanesevillageplaza.net JEWELRY DISTRICTCL0000022210 Renowned for wholesale prices on precious gems, watches and all types of fine jewelry, the jewelry district lets the shopper take advantage of savings, ranging from 50 percent to 70 percent, by purchasing directly from the source and avoiding the middleman. At St. Vincent Jewelry Center (640–650 S. Hill St.), find 500 merchants. Between Hill Street and Broadway from 5th to 8th streets, downtown, lajd.net MALIBU COUNTRY MARTCL9000006282 The mart has been around for ages, but new shops are constantly being added to the list of nearly 40 boutique tenants. Pick up shades at Oliver Peoples, maxidresses at Planet Blue or design-your-own denim at the Earnest Sewn Co. Malibu Lumber Yard is adjacent. 3895, 3890 and 3900 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, malibucountrymart.com ★ ONTARIO MILLS OUTLETSCL0000333558 With its 1.7 million square feet, this is California’s largest outlet shopping destination. Among its 200-plus stores are Polo Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss Factory Store, DKNY and Tommy Hilfiger Company Store, as well as anchors Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Nordstrom Rack and Last Call by Neiman Marcus—plus a 30-screen cineplex. One Mills Circle, Ontario, 909.484.8300, ontariomills.com
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Versace, Tiffany & Co., Jimmy Choo, Agent Provocateur and Vertu. Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, 310.247.7040, tworodeo.com WESTFiELd CEnTURy CiTyCL0000022215 This pleasant open-air mall features more than 175 stores, including Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s and Tiffany & Co. The AMC multiplex features stadium seating and floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall screens. Inside the atrium and out on the terrace are casual and fine dining sites with skyline views. 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Century City, 310.277.3898, westfield.com/centurycity
POKETO DOWNTOWN
h SanTa mOniCa PLaCE A glittering three-level, open-air center anchors Third Street Promenade. A youth-skewed Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom join some 50 specialty boutiques, such as L.A.-based Juicy Couture and Kitson. The rooftop Dining Deck features a food court, six restaurants and a gourmet marketplace. 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, 310.394.1049, santamonicaplace.com h SOUTH COaST PLazaCL0000022212 International destination South Coast Plaza is a mecca of designer retail, from more affordable stores—Tory Burch, Lacoste, J. Crew—to some of the most exclusive brands: Gucci, Hermès, Chanel, Burberry, Harry Winston and Balenciaga, to name a few. Amenities include personal shopper/stylist services. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888, southcoastplaza.com SUnSET PLazaCL0000022213 “Chic” is the word at this upscale row of designer boutiques, sidewalk cafes and specialty shops. Browse high-end
stores such as Code C, Oliver Peoples and hip H. Lorenzo and H. Men. Get pampered at Ole Henriksen Face/Body Spa and Jessica Nail Clinic. 86008700 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, sunsetplaza.com THiRd STREET PROmEnadECL0000022203 The cobblestone pedestrian-only shopping zone spans three blocks, from Broadway to Wilshire Boulevard. Among stores are Zara, French Connection, Urban Outfitters and Z Gallerie. Watch street artists performing all manner of gimmicks. Street-side restaurants include Barney’s Beanery and Trastevere Trattoria Italiana. 3rd Street between Broadway and Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, downtownsm.com h TWO ROdEOCL0000022214 In the heart of Beverly Hills’ worldrenowned shopping district is Two Rodeo, an ensemble of restaurants and boutiques offering distinctive dining, luxury-life wares and haute fashion. Luxury brands include Lanvin,
WESTSidE PaViLiOnCL0000022216 The family-friendly center, anchored by Nordstrom and Macy’s, includes more than 100 specialty shops such as Nine West and Build-A-Bear Workshop. State-of-the-art Landmark Theatre shows indie, foreign-language and documentary films, plus special 21-andover movie screenings with cocktails. 10800 W. Pico Blvd., West L.A., 310.470.8752, westsidepavilion.com
SHOPS+BOUTiqUES h aBUndanCECL0000022217 This feminine, upscale boutique for women size 12 and up carries classic clothing with flair. Citron, Flax, Blanque and Tianello are among the featured designers. For dressy occasions, look for gowns and evening wear from brands such as Damianou and Tadashi. 13604 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818.990.6128, abundanceplussizes.com. h addRESS BOUTiqUE A tasteful gray façade gives way to the Address Boutique's sleek, airy white interior with mirrored walls and floral arrangements, complementing racks of elegant clothing. The latest and greatest resale fashions include labels such as Dolce & Gabbana, Roberto Cavalli, Dior, Prada and Christian Louboutin. 1116 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.394.1406, theaddressboutique.com
aLExiS BiTTaRCL0000333532 Alexis Bittar’s costume-jewelry designs always make a splash, whether the statement is colorful and whimsical (see the Alexandria necklace with peacock-feather-printed lucite) or minimal and practical (the metal cuffs in his Miss Havisham line). Two boutiques, opened simultaneously in L.A., illustrate his dichotomous design sense. 8383 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.951.9803; 1612 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.452.6901. alexisbittar.com amERiCan RaG CiECL0000022219 This legendary one-stop shop fully outfits men and women in complete L.A.-chic ensembles. Clothing ranges from a carefully chosen vintage section to brand-new Comme des Garçons. The wide range of designer denim, bags and sunglasses can be mesmerizing. Adjoining Maison features French home decor, books and CDs. 150 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.935.3154, amrag.com THE annExCL0000333593 Geren Lockhart, designer of Geren Ford, operates this boutique which peddles her own pieces—such as tops, minidresses and skirts in jewel-toned silks and trendy cuts—plus vintage home decor and accessories from her favorite designers, including Hermès, Dior and Yves Saint Laurent. By appointment only. 1034 Seward St., Hollywood, 213.689.9500, gerenford.com/annex a + RCL9000006283 Design products at A + R are functional, artful and heavy on wit. Owned by former film editor Andy Griffith and fashion journalist Rose Apodaca (hence “A plus R”), the store offers internationally sourced home products, gifts and objets d’art, often high concept and always superstylish. 1121 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 800.913.0071; 171 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.692.0086. aplusrstore.com Va + aLiRiaCL9000007062 a Marissa Cancellieri and Consuelo Chozas fuse vintage accents with
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THE AMERICANA AT BRAND Shopping. Dining. Entertainment.
Anthropologie Apple Barnes & Noble Barneys New York CO-OP Calvin Klein Cole Haan
Crewcuts H&M Ilori J.Crew Kiehl’s Since 1851 Lacoste
Madewell Sephora Sony Sur La Table Tiffany & Co. Urban Outfitters
Frida Mexican Cuisine Trattoria Amici Granville Café Jewel City Diner Katsuya Deluca’s Italian Deli
Chi Dynasty Crumbs Bake Shop The Cheesecake Factory Pinkberry Pacific Theatres 18-Plex Partial Listings
Two-hour free parking from participating retailers. Text HOLIDAY to 55678 and you'll be the first to hear about all of our holiday events! No charges but message and data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, reply STOP to cancel.
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The Americana at Brand
@AmericanaBrand
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contemporary style at this women’s boutique. In addition to featuring their own line of leather jackets, the proprietors carry the flirty, eclectic creations of Argentine designer Carolina Aubele and L.A.-based brands Myne and Ever. 912-B Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 424.206.1884, avaandaliria.com h BEaUdRy Master diamond cutter Michael Beaudry has been creating oneof-a-kind diamond and platinum jewelry for 20 years. The exquisite salon showcases couture jewelry and timepieces as well as objets d’art for the home. Montage Hotel, 225 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 424.241.1000, beaudrybeverlyhills.com BEdHEad PajamaSCL0000022222 Want to play pajama games? Check out the BedHead store, where the upscale nighttime line displays its latest designs along with slippers, bedding and other accessories. Pack it up in overnight bags by Renée Claire and add Votivo candles. 8336 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.653.8336, bedheadpajamas.com h BOTany’S dESiRE BOUTiqUE Focusing on a natural lifestyle, this cozy boutique with a modern industrial vibe is the essence of casual, affordable luxury. Women’s ecofriendly apparel, artisan jewelry, organic bath and body products and perfumes are offered, as well as fair-trade leather goods. 8 E. Holly St., Pasadena, 626.229.9998, facebook.com/botanysdesire
Los Angeles, CA · www.singlestone.com | t 213.892.0772 San Marino, CA · www.singlestonemissionstreet.com | t 626.799.3109
h BRiGadE L.a.CL0000333545 Fashionistas appreciate the highend casual and evening wear at this contemporary boutique. Alice + Olivia, Isabel Marant, J Brand and Vivienne Westwood are just a few of the trendsetting labels featured at this boutique that brings a slice of the hip Robertson Boulevard fashion scene to downtown’s historic core. 510 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.623.0013, brigadela.com
BROKEn EnGLiSHCL9000006286 A refreshing alternative to massmarket competition, this gem boasts jewelry from cutting-edge designers including Darlene de Sedle, Pamela Froman and Loriann Stevenson, joined by one-of-a-kind vintage finds. Brentwood Country Mart, 225 26th St., Santa Monica, 310.458.2724, brokenenglishjewelry.com CLaRE ViViER Clare Vivier's first flagship boutique features her line of brightly colored, minimalist handbags, accessories and gadget cases, made locally since 2008. Also on offer are accessories from Steven Alan, Caran d’Ache pens and Leanne Shapton hand-painted book covers. Want to customize your bag? The shop offers a monogramming program. 3339 W. Sunset Blvd., Silver Lake, 323.665.2476, clarevivier.com h CLOTHES HEaVEn Specializing in new and gently worn designer resale merchandise, Clothes Heaven offers pieces from such high-end names as Gucci, Christian Louboutin, Chanel, Versace and Prada. Savvy stylists contribute to a fun, highenergy and personalized shopping experience. 111 E. Union St., Pasadena, 626.440.0929, clothesheaven.com h CRaiG EVan SmaLL Craig Evan Small, an authority on antique jewelry, showcases exceptional retro, Victorian and Art Deco estate jewelry in his eponymous elegant shop. Antique watches from Gucci, Rolex and Patek Philippe are available, as well as an extensive collection of vintage engagement rings and unique pieces from Tiffany, Bulgari and Cartier. 731 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.550.7895, craigevansmall.com dEn.m BaR The path to your dream jeans ends at sleek workshop Den.m Bar, which creates vintage-inspired custom jeans. Customers choose their desired style (straight, slim or skinny) and then select from an array of denim materi-
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Downtown l.a.’s Premium Boutique bold beautiful brilliant. Brigade LA carries only the very best of today’s Top Designer Brands such as J Brand, Michael Kors, Diane von Furstenberg, See by Chloe, Diesel, Current Elliot, Mothers, Wildfox, Theyskins, Equipment, James Perse, Alice+Olivia, Milly, UGG Australia, Elizabeth & James, Jeffrey Campbell, Karen Walker, Camilla Skovgaard - to name a few. With a focus on contemporary, casual, ready to wear, denims, shoes, and accessories, brigade LA is downtown LA’s one and only shopping retail destination! Come enjoy a day on the bustling 7th Street corridor in the historic core of downtown Los Angeles. Grab a meal at renowned chef Ricardo Zarate’s highly celebrated Mo-Chica, or coffee & dessert at local favorites’ Bottega Louie, Thai food at Soi 7, Sushi at Sugar Fish and Latin food at Mas Malo. Brigade LA is located just a few doors down from these great restaurants and other local venues and attractions! Stop by today, mention this ad and receive 10% off any regularly priced item, and additional 5% off any sale item!
510 W. 7th Street Los Angeles, CA 90014 213.623.0013 Mon-Sat 11am - 7pm Sunday 12pm - 6pm
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dena favorite. Find bold pieces at an array of prices from an eclectic selection of talented designers. Unique, provocative collections from acclaimed artists make Gold Bug a standout. 22 E. Union St., Pasadena, 626.744.9963, goldbugpasadena.com GUm TREECL9000006294 Housed in a quaint, bright little bungalow, this boutique is as refreshing as a sea breeze. In addition to an adjoining cafe and tons of cute housewares is a pitch-perfect selection of accessories; think delicate drop earrings, hammered silver rings and fun printed scarves. 238 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.376.8744, gumtreela.com
CLARE VIVIER IN SILVER LAKE
als. Accessories such as buttons, colorful zippers and threads and patterned pocket lining complete the look. 111 W. 7th St., downtown, 415.508.8232, denmbar.com EGGyCL0000333537 There’s a fine line between cute and cutesy; luckily, children’s boutique Eggy skews to the former. Owner Jenny An selects pieces that look like teeny versions of pieces a kid’s hip parents might wear: bubble coats and “jeggings” for girls, and military jackets and blazers for boys. 8365 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.658.8882, shopeggy.com FLiGHT 001CL0000333542 This one-stop shop offers luggage, toiletry bags, electrical adapters, gadget and passport cases and all manner of essentials for the stylish yet practical traveler. A transporting retail experience, the space is designed to resemble a sleek airport lounge. 8321 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.966.0001, flight001.com
FREd SEGaLCL0000022234 A multitude of international trends began in what may be L.A.’s most famous store. Established on Melrose Avenue in 1968, the emporium is a collection of individually owned and interconnected boutiques. The denim selection is topnotch, with stalwarts Rock & Republic, Current/Elliot, Acne and J Brand. 8100 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.655.9500; 420 Broadway, Santa Monica, 310.458.2800. fredsegal.com h FREy WiLLECL0000333547 Founded in Vienna, Austria in 1951, Frey Wille has emerged as one of the most exclusive names in jewelry, famous for a vibrantly colored artisan enameling technique that balances classic and contemporary styling. A men’s collection is also offered, as well as distinctive watches and writing instruments. 441 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.777.0009, freywille.com h GOLd BUGCL0000333549 Offering distinctive jewelry and unique objets d’art, Gold Bug is an Old Pasa-
H. LOREnzOCL0000022236 Two stores on Sunset, just a few feet from each other, offer one of L.A.’s most comprehensive shopping experiences while maintaining a boutique atmosphere. Gowns, suits and casual shirts are by such designers as Ann Demeulemeester, Emilio Pucci and Yohji Yamamoto. 8646, 8660 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 310.659.1432, hlorenzo.com HEnnESSEy + inGaLLSCL9000007065 This way-too-cool art and architecture book shop goes deep—a section is devoted solely to vacation homes. From a monograph on Johnny Depp to a guide on Fifty Chairs That Changed the World, these books appeal beyond coffee-table duty. 1520 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, 323.466.1256; 214 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.458.9074. hennesseyingalls.com h HUSETCL0000333543 If you’ve OD’d on Ikea, gain a fresh perspective on Scandinavian design at Venice’s Huset. It showcases a range of furniture, home decor and kitchenware—brightly printed Almedahls tea towels, Giarimi Stockholm etched drinking glasses and ladderlike Libri shelves—plus an array of bohemian clothing. 13161/2 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 424.268.4213, huset-shop.com
KELLy WEaRSTLER Kelly Wearstler, known for her colorful, statement-making interior designs, opened a Melrose Avenue boutique for her eponymous lifestyle brand, encompassing ready-to-wear, jewelry and accessories collections plus home decor items and books. Naturally, the design of the 2,800-square-foot boutique bears Wearstler’s signature stamp. 8440 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.895.7880, kellywearstler.com h KinG BaBy STUdiO An on-site jewelry factory (available for tours), in a cool industrial space featuring reclaimed Venice Pier planks, makes this boutique no ordinary shopping experience. Here, skilled craftsmen create a variety of sterling silver jewelry designs that have been worn by celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Jennifer Lopez and Rihanna. 1621 12th St., Santa Monica, 310.828.4438, kingbabystudio.com KiTSOnCL0000022243 Kitson boutique continues its role as a celebrity and paparazzi magnet. Nearby the Robertson Boulevard location are Kitson Men and Kitson Studio, which features high-end shoes, handbags and clothes. Additional stores are at the Americana at Brand and in West Hollywood. 115 S. Robertson Blvd., L.A., 310.859.2652; Malibu Lumber Yard, 3939 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.317.1421. shopkitson.com anVinCL0000333544 L Sunbathers can catch rays in style in beach-ready clothing and accessories from the newest Lanvin boutique in Malibu. Selling items with a beachy twist, the boutique channels the L.A. lifestyle with silk charmeuse dresses, breezy caftans, sandals and beach totes. The more traditional flagship location is in Beverly Hills. Malibu Village, 3826 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.6808; 260 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.402.0580. lanvin.com
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CITADEL OUTLETS
LA’S CHOICE FOR OUTLET SHOPPING Find out what’s behind the wall at Citadel Outlets and save 30-70% off full retail from over 120 of your favorite brand names. Visit citadeloutlets.com for a complete store listing and exclusive offers.
BEHIND THE WALL. BEYOND EXPECTATIONS. Just minutes from Downtown LA on I-5 at the Atlantic Blvd. Exit.
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Citadel Outlets now offers round-trip shuttle service seven days a week from select area hotels. Visit citadeloutlets.com for shuttle times and additional transportation information.
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LOST & FOUndCL9000007066 This Hollywood boutique is actually six little storefronts under one roof. Stop at the women’s outpost for Nil Lotan tuxedo shirts and Il Bisonte’s Florence-made leather accessories or the home store for Liberty print cloth napkins. Also find clothing for men and children, and accessories. 6314–6324 Yucca St., Hollywood, 323.856.5872, lostandfoundshop.com LULa MaECL9000007023 At this nostalgic boutique in Old Pasadena, beautifully packaged lotions, letter-press stationery, classic children’s books and pretty accessories beckon with a whimsical wink. The boutique carries small and local lines as well as familiar favorites such as Hobo wallets and cheeky Anne Taintor notepads. 100 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena, 626.304.9996, lulamae.com
So where do those stunning designer outfits and gorgeous gowns go after the awards shows? To The AdDress Boutique, a small, intimate shop where some of Hollywood’s most glamorous, fashionable women sell their gowns, suits, shoes, furs and accessories—and you buy at affordable prices. You’ll find Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Cavalli, Dior, Manola Blahnik, Christian Louboutin and more. Elegant, new and barely worn resale designer fashions are up to 80 percent off original prices.
1116 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica 310.394.1406 theaddressboutique.com M-Sa 10am–6pm, Su noon–5pm. est. 1986
h MadE In EaRTH Made in Earth’s jewelry features exotic gemstones, minerals and meteorites displayed in handcrafted silver settings. These natural wonders are exhibited in vintage cedar cabinets; a sand-strewn floor telegraphs a beachy vibe. 1506 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.396.3838, mieusa.com THE MaRKETCL0000333535 Santa Monica Place shopping center offers a cornucopia of artisanal foodstuffs and products reminiscent of San Francisco’s Ferry Building Marketplace. Several boutiques and food purveyors include Groundwork Coffee Co., Röckenwagner Bakery, Norcino Salumeria Cheese Bar and L’Artisan du Chocolat. Santa Monica Place, 315 Colorado Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.260.8300, themarketsmp.com h MaUdE WOOdS Maude Woods owner Carrie Davich curates an eclectic mix of artisan home furnishings and accessories in her lightdrenched shop. Unique gift items from around the globe include designer bedding and furniture, crystal, table-
ware, pottery and vintage jewelry. 55 E. Holly St., Pasadena, 626.577.3400, maudewoods.com MaxFIELdCL0000022249 Asked to pick his favorite stores in the world, Chanel designer Karl Lagerfeld named the exclusive Maxfield, a Melrose Avenue standout with a newer outpost in Malibu. This boutique is a legend, hosting names such as Yohji Yamamoto, Gucci, Rick Owens and Libertine. 8825 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 310.274.8800; Malibu Lumber Yard, 3939 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.270.9009 M. FREdRIcCL9000006295 This unisex store hits California casual on the nose. Women’s apparel includes an array of designer jeans, maxidresses and comfy basics. Menswear looks run to Hollywood-appropriate fedoras and sharp blazers. Additional stores are in Calabasas, Westlake, Malibu, Valencia and El Segundo. 12124 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.985.4404; Waterside Marina del Rey, 4720 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.305.1272. mfredric.com MOHaWK GEnERaL STORECL9000006296 This Silver Lake standout contains all the essentials for an artsy-cool wardrobe. In addition to co-owner Kevin Carney’s footwear label, the Generic Man, is a carefully curated selection of clothing by designers such as S.N.S. Herning, accessories and home decor items. 4011 W. Sunset Blvd., Silver Lake, 323.669.1601, mohawkgeneralstore.net nEIL LanE JEWELRyCL9000006297 All that glitters is gold, white gold, platinum or even diamond pavé at Neil Lane Jewelry. The upscale jeweler most often cited on awards ceremony red carpets showcases these stunners at his flagship boutique off Melrose Place. His engagement rings and diamond-dotted cuffs are pricey, but those with recession-proof bank
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is the only upscale boutique in greater Los Angeles for women size 12 and up. From classic clothing – with a flair – to the unusual, fun and funky. From comfortable business to casual or dressy special occasion: Abundance has it all!
A Plus-Size Boutique 13604 Ventura Boulevard Sherman Oaks 818.990.6128 www.AbundancePlusSizes.com
accounts appreciate their panache. 708 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.275.5015, neillanejewelry.com No. ACL9000007026 This Little Tokyo gem is among the most ambitious of the boutiques to hit downtown. It showcases an international cast of designers for clothing, shoes and jewelry from hard-to-find names including Sweden’s Cheap Monday and France’s Qhuit. 374 E. 2nd St., Little Tokyo, 213.626.6155, number-a.com OKCL9000007022 Owner Larry Schaffer’s love of modern and Japanese design shines in a diverse but aesthetically harmonious assortment of ceramics, tableware, jewelry, art books and more. Some great finds: Tej Kothari gold earrings, Rodin luxury beauty products and Comme des Garçons wallets. 8303 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.653.3501; 1716 Silver Lake Blvd., Silver Lake, 323.666.1868. okstore.la h OmegaCL0000333572 Visitors entering the Omega boutique are warmly greeted by staff who specialize in the products of this renowned Swiss watchmaker. Omega’s entire product line is carried here, including the four iconic collections—Speedmaster, Seamaster, Constellation and De Ville—as well as the company’s fine jewelry and leather goods. Beverly Center, 8500 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.854.0003, omegawatches.com Opening CeremonyCL9000006298 Referring to the Olympics opening ceremony, this store pits American clothing designers against those from a selected country. Chloe Sevigny dresses and vests by Moonchild might compete with Swedish label Velour. Sister store the Little House of Accessories is next door. 451 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.652.1120, openingceremony.us POKETO Poketo, a retail/gallery space in the burgeoning downtown Arts District, is no upstart: Founders Ted Vadakan
and Angie Myung have been nurturing their design-driven lifestyle brand and e-tailing site for nearly a decade. Artminded wares include graphic stationery, housewares, accessories, apparel and vinyl wallets featuring emerging artists’ work. 820 E. 3rd St., downtown, 213.537.0751, poketo.com PradaCL0000022254 The Beverly Hills Prada flagship is not only an important fashion destination, but its interior is a masterpiece by Rem Koolhaas. Shoes, clothes and handbags parade down a swooping set of wooden stairs. Don’t be intimidated—it’s free to look. 343 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.278.8661, prada.com h PyrrhaCL0000333553 This celebrity-favored boutique offers a collection of handcrafted jewelry cast from 19th-century wax seals, plus oneof-a-kind pieces rich in imagination and imagery. The whitewashed space is decorated with an eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary furniture and accessories. 8315 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.424.4807, pyrrha.com h Robin’s JeanCL0000333553 With a celebrity clientele that includes Alicia Keys and Kim Kardashian, Robin’s Jean combines comfort and sex appeal. Its collections—Marilyn, Bardot and Rita—pay homage to old-school cinema chic with flattering cuts, unique washes and intricate details. Also featured are leather jackets and clothing for men and kids. 313 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.786.7813, robinsjean.com Ron HermanCL0000022256 This minichain has outposts all over L.A. County, each store offering a snapshot of casual, chic style. Browse for fetching dresses by Elizabeth & James, men’s denim from Simon Miller and jewelry by Linea Pelle and Chan Luu. Additional stores are in Malibu and Brentwood. 8100 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.651.4129; 325 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.550.0910. ronherman.com
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Great Brand Names. Terrific Low Prices. California’s Largest Outlet Shopping Destination. Ontario Mills has always been the ultimate shopping experience with more than 200 outlet and value stores. With so much to choose from, finding the perfect something for less will be a breeze. So now you can relax in style.
Mention this ad at Simon Guest Services and you’ll receive a FREE Coupon Book worth hundreds of dollars in savings! ®
36 MILES EAST OF DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES AT THE INTERSECTION OF INTERSTATES 10 & 15 IN ONTARIO, CA. 909.484.8300
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Original Works of Native American Indian Jewelry and Art
Visitors from around the world seek out Taos Indian Trading Co. for unique, quality jewelry, pottery, sculptures, paintings and a variety of other artifacts representing 57 tribes.
Mon-Sat 11am-7pm Sun 12pm-5pm
hollywoodandhighland.com
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310.395.3652
403 Santa Monica Blvd. TaosIndianTrading.com
1/5/11
SatineCL0000022257 This is one sweet boutique, with sexy and funky fashions from European designers not often seen in L.A. stores. Well-chosen pieces from Rachel Comey and Chinti & Parker are present, as are the season’s most coveted shoes, including the store’s own line. 8134 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.655.2142; 1508 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.6218. satineboutique.com h Single StoneCL9000006310 Fine-jewelry purveyor Single Stone offers items with contemporary flair as well as romantic vintage pieces. The San Marino location offers contemporary looks by Single Stone, Temple St. Clair and Irene Neuwirth; the downtown location offers Single Stone’s own designs plus vintage and estate pieces. 607 S. Hill St., #204, downtown, 213.892.0772; 2527 Mission St., San Marino, 626.799.3109. singlestone.com Space NKCL0000333538 Beauty geeks meet their match in Nicky Kinnaird, self-professed product junkie and owner of this British-based 10:17 AM apothecary. Like a better, more tightly curated Sephora, Space NK stocks cult lines and boutique brands that a diva can’t live without, from Acqua di Parma perfumes to Oribe hair products to Zelens skin cream. Brentwood Country Mart, 225 26th St., Santa Monica, 310.451.7284, spacenk.com Strange Invisible PerfumesCL9000006312 At her one-of-a-kind earthy botanical perfumery, Alexandra Balahoutis helps you customize a fragrance, or “aromatic portrait,” via a personality test, floral water tasting and assessment of your body chemistry. Premade products include body wash and lotion, parfum and eau de parfum. 1138 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.314.1505, siperfumes.com
Hollywood Blvd & Highland Ave
h Taos Indian Trading Co.CL0000022261 These fourth-generation Native American art dealers have amassed
arts and crafts from artisans representing more than 57 tribes in North America. Nothing is mass-produced or commonly available—the store carries only one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry, pottery, paintings, rugs and sculptures. 403 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.395.3652, taosindiantrading.com h Vertu In L.A., cellphones aren’t just a necessity but also a fashion statement. Vertu, the leading manufacturer of luxury phones, offers the finest design, engineering and technology. Three collections—Signature, Ascent and Constellation—are showcased, and collaborations with Ferrari and Boucheron add cachet. 214 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.385.7647, vertu.com h Violet’s Cakes00136 Violet's Cakes offers trendy cupcakes (Martha Stewart is a fan) in charming environs in Old Pasadena. The finest ingredients (e.g. Valrhona chocolate, Madagascar vanilla) go into flavors such as dulce de leche, peach cobbler and red velvet. Gluten-free and vegan varieties are available, too. 21 E. Holly St., Pasadena, 626.395.9821, violetscakes.com h Wanna Buy a Watch?CL0000022265 This classy shop has catered to wellheeled shoppers for more than 25 years. The store’s superfine collection emphasizes fashionable vintage and pre-owned Rolex and Patek Philippe watches, antique Edwardian, moderne and Art Deco-style diamond rings, and other estate pieces. 8465 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.653.0467, wannabuyawatch.com h WestimeCL0000022266 Westime specializes in top-of-the-line timepieces and offers its clientele a range of classic mechanical watches, including rare and limited-edition styles. Luxury brands offered include Bell & Ross, Harry Winston and Breitling. Its West Hollywood loca-
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A contemporary cabinet of curiosities with a museum perspective on current artists, jewelers, and designers.
Award-winning cupcakes made fresh daily! Martha Stewart agrees, Violet’s is making the world a better place, one cupcake at a time.
Shopping is fun at this high-end designer resale store, offering the best of recent and vintage Chanel, Prada, Vuitton, and more!
Gold Bug
Violet’s Cakes
Clothes Heaven
22 E. Union St. 626.744.9963 goldbugpasadena.com
21 E. Holly St. 626.395.9821 violetscakes.com
111 E. Union St. 626.440.0929 clothesheaven.com
Traditional izakaya style restaurant serving unique culinary creations that until now have only been found in Tokyo.
Luxurious ecofriendly boutique offering modern organic essentials for the style and health conscious consumer.
Artful living boutique that mixes new upscale furnishings with vintage and renovated second-hand treasures.
Old Pasadena Musha
Botany’s Desire
Maude Woods
J
ust 15 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, and conveniently situated along the Metro Gold Line, Old Pasadena is a vibrant hub of world-class shopping, dining, arts, and entertainment. Comprising 22 blocks of nationally registered historic architecture, Old Pasadena is widely recognized as a premier destination and one of the few truly walkable urban districts in California. Come explore more than 300 specialty boutiques, exclusive retailers, sidewalk cafés, and fine restaurants in this authentic main street experience.
58 E. Colorado Blvd. 626.405.1518 musha.us
8 E. Holly St. 626.229.9998
55 E. Holly St. 626.577.3400 maudewoods.com
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tion employs a full-time watchmaker. 8569 W. Sunset Blvd. West Hollywood, 310.289.0808; 254 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.271.0000. westime.com
Galleries Blum & Poe GalleryCL0000022267 Within the neon orange walls of the Culver City Art District’s original settler and flagship gallery hang works by art scene all-stars Sam Durant, Sharon Lockhart, Jim Shaw and Takashi Murakami. The gallery celebrates art rather than entombs it and is famed for its festive openings. 2727 S. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.836.2062, blumandpoe.com Gagosian GalleryCL0000022271 The Los Angeles Times calls the venerated Gagosian Gallery, designed by architect Richard Meier, “a Mount Olympus of the Los Angeles art world.” Blue-chip artists include Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Cy Twombly and Maya Lin, known for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. 456 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.271.9400, gagosian.com h Galerie MichaelCL0000022272 Galerie Michael specializes in European paintings, drawings and original prints from the 17th century to the present, including works by Marc Chagall, Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Joan Miró. The gallery also carries works by significant painters of the Barbizon school. 224 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.273.3377, galeriemichael.com L.A. LouverCL0000022275 Located a block from Venice’s eccentric boardwalk, the gallery counterbalances the funk with sophisticated, museum-quality shows of major contemporary American and European artists. Deborah Butterfield, Peter Shelton and Dale Chihuly are just a few of the many marquee artists. 45 N. Venice Blvd., Venice, 310.822.4955, lalouver.com
L.A.C.E.CL0000022274 For nearly two decades, Los Angeles Contemporary Exhibitions has exhibited and supported innovative art. It also offers lectures, workshops, performances and screenings. Contemporary Editions Los Angeles produces prints and other graphics by art stars such as John Baldessari and Laura Owens. 6522 Hollywood Blvd., L.A., 323.957.1777, welcometolace.org h Mouche Gallery On the cutting edge of the art world, Mouche Gallery’s contemporary style of art collecting inspires a new generation. “Maestro” Keiko Noah has assembled works from celebrity artists (e.g. Steven Tyler, Jerry Garcia) and emerging talent, plus a huge selection of celebrity photos. 340 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 424.354.8008, mouchegallery.com Patricia Correia GalleryCL0000022278 The Chicano art movement of the late 1960s spawned an outpouring of painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking and conceptual art. Generally presenting vibrantly colorful, politically potent images, artists further expressed themselves via a cross-cultural visual vocabulary. This gallery features Mexican American artists including Gronk, Frank Romero and Elsa Flores. Bergamot Station, 2525 Michigan Ave., Santa Monica, 310.455.0515, correiagallery.com Stephen Cohen GalleryCL0000022279 Specializing in vintage and contemporary photography (and photo-based art) from the Americas and Europe, the Stephen Cohen Gallery opened in 1992. Proprietor Cohen also founded Artfairs Inc., which stages major fairs around the country including Photo L.A. and Art L.A. 7354 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.937.5525, stephencohengallery.com
L FOR MORE OF WHAT'S IN STORE, see where los angeles magazine and download the WHERE USA APP
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shop + dine + explore venice
ABBOT KINNEY BLVD Abbot Kinney Boulevardhome to bohemians, artists, actors and creatives, the 1.5 mile stretch between Venice Boulevard and Main Street is considered one of L.A.’s hippest streets. Shop unique designs in cutting edge and eclectic boutiques, browse original artwork in the row’s many galleries, rejuvenate with a cappuccino in a chic coffee house or dine at some of the trendiest restaurants in the city.
huset
Made In Earth
13161/2 Abbot Kinney Blvd. 424 268 4213 huset-shop.com A one-of-a-kind boutique with expertly curated goods from more than 60 Scandinavian designers.
1506 Abbot Kinney Blvd. 310 396 3838 mieusa.com A collection of f ine handcrafted jewelry encompassing over 120 gemstones from all over the world.
Originally developed as an American version of the famed Italian canal city, Venice is a bohemian-chic beachside community centering around Abbot Kinney Boulevard, a stylish draw for locals and visitors alike.
LA’s brightest boulevard in the heart of Venice Beach
abbotkinneyonline.com
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Kamofie and Company
Coutula
1350 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Suite 102 310 310 3998 kamof ie.com A treasure trove of one-of-a-kind fine designer and vintage jewelry. Mention this ad for 10% off your next purchase.
1204 Abbot Kinney Blvd. 310 581 8010 coutula.com A unique selection handpicked, limited-edition jewelry, timeless, elegant, easy-going clothes and gifts.
12/17/12 3:26 PM
astro’s.
« MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE, BEVERLY HILLS A landmark dining destination in the heart of L.A.’s most exclusive zip code, Mastro’s Steakhouse Beverly Hills is a culinary experience like no other. Serving up the finest in steaks and freshest seafood and featuring elegant, well appointed décor. Savor the spectacular surroundings as you sip on a glass of wine from the award-winning wine list, or a hand-shaken dry-ice martini from the full bar in the piano lounge, where you’ll find live entertainment nightly. For parties of 2 to 500 guests, Mastro’s private dining rooms are dedicated to an evening of sensory pleasure. Ask our Director of Events about reserving the entire Steakhouse, for an unparalleled private function. MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE, THOUSAND OAKS » Centrally located across from the Civic Arts Plaza, Mastro’s is Thousand Oak’s finest dining destination. The extraordinary menu features hand-cut, dry-aged prime steaks and the freshest seafood. Don’t overlook the stunning array of appetizers, including the signature Seafood Tower, familystyle sides and desserts such as a proprietary Warm Butter Cake that you will crave long after it’s finished. Live entertainment nightly in the piano lounge. Exquisite private dining rooms can accommodate any special event, and a highly skilled Event Director and professional staff will attend to each and every detail with grace and style. For the ultimate occasion, the entire Steakhouse can be reserved.
2087 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd.
246 north canon drive
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
beverly hills, ca 90210
(805) 418-1811
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www.mastrosrestaurants.com
(310) 888-8782
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chow time
courtesy osteria drago
DINING L.A.’s dining scene, ONE OF THE MOST EXCITING IN THE WORLD, OFFERS CALIFORNIA, ETHNIC AND GLOBAL CUISINES. SINCE THE CITY IS THE CENTER OF POPULAR CULTURE IN AMERICA, ITS DINING SCENE REFLECTS the most current trends.
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iT'S PERSOnaL in decades past, chefs aspired to executive chef appointments at prestigious L.a. restaurants . These days, chefs are leaving those environments for something even more ambitious: their own, more down-to-earth concepts. victor casanova had what most would consider a dream job as chef of culina, but new Gusto on West 3rd Street is a more personal expression of his craft, an intimate ristorante seating 35 diners where his wife is hostess. andrew Kirschner recently departed the security of Wilshire Restaurant to open Tar & Roses in Santa monica, where nearly every dish, from addictive baby carrots to lamb loin, passes through a wood-burning oven. Top Chef winner michael voltaggio once cooked quietly at the posh Langham Huntington Hotel & Spa in Pasadena, but this hip, tattooed young gun is more at home at melrose avenue's ink., where he embraces molecular gastronomy and experimentation.
mediterranean. Explore a Mediterranean-inspired menu at the eatery that pioneered two L.A. culinary trends: the small-plates format and the wine bar. Chefowner Suzanne Goin offers addictive Parmesan-stuffed dates and a selection of cheeses and cured meats from a charcuterie bar. D (nightly). 8022 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.653.6359, aocwinebar.com cEccOni’SCL9000006247 italian. This London-based restaurant caters to a well-heeled clientele who come to schmooze over bellinis and ciccheti (small plates). Pastas including a butternut squash and goat-cheese tortelli and seafood such as grilled octopus with capers are well executed. B, L, D (daily), Br (Sa–Su). 8764 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 310.432.2000, cecconiswesthollywood.com OOKS cOUnTy c california. Cooks County showcases ingredients from a lengthy roster of farms, orchards and ranches printed on the daily-changing menu. Among entrees, you might encounter grilled Columbia River salmon with artichoke puree and Meyer lemon relish or a beautifully prepared pork loin. Pastry chef Roxana Jullapat’s soft “spretzel” is a signature dish. Br (Sa–Su), L (M–F), D (nightly). 8009 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.653.8009, cookscountyrestaurant.com GUSTO italian. Former Culina chef Victor Casanova opens an intimate neigh-
borhood ristorante with a look and feel reminiscent of his native Bronx. Dishes such as polpette (pork meatballs) plated over chilled whipped ricotta, braised baby octopus and fresh-made pastas deserve praise. D (nightly). 8432 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.1778, gusto-la.com HaTfiELd’SCL0000022146 american. Husband-and-wife chef team Quinn and Karen Hatfield combine their talents in the savory and sweet departments, respectively. Guests might dine on Quinn’s reinvented croque madame with yellowtail sashimi, prosciutto and quail egg, or Karen’s heavenly sugar-andspice beignets. D (nightly). 6703 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.935.2977, hatfieldsrestaurant.com inK. american. Top Chef winner Michael Voltaggio showcases daring, cerebral molecular gastronomy at his first restaurant. Get a fivecourse tasting menu or explore the constantly changing à la carte small plates such as tuna with dashi “sponge,” poutine with lamb neck gravy and chickpea fries, and Brussels sprouts with pig ears and cuttlefish. D (nightly). 8360 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.651.5866, mvink.com Laya P Pan-Latin Rivera chef John Sedlar focuses on "urban Latin" small plates. Tapas include maize cake cauliflower four ways and mussels with tomatillo-serrano salsa and avocado-lime cream. Don't miss the creative cocktails from innovative mixologist Julian Cox. Br (Sa–Su), D (nightly). 7360 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.933.5300, playarivera.com
PROvidEncECL0000022181 Seafood. Chef-owner Michael Cimarusti transforms seafood from the world’s most pristine waters into inventive dishes such as kampachi with miso, buttermilk and green grapes, and striped bass with bacon and Bordelaise sauce. Outstanding cocktails complement Michelin-recognized cuisine. L (F), D (nightly). 5955 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.460.4170, providencela.com REd OCL9000007073 mexican. Rick Bayless, one of the leading authorities on Mexican cuisine in America, is consulting chef at this sexy, transporting Melrose eatery. Many of his thoughtful dishes are grounded in tradition, such as Yucatan shrimp and calamari ceviches and cochinita pibil. Br, L (Sa–Su), D (nightly). 8155 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.655.5009, redorestaurant.com
BEvERLy HiLLS BOUcHOnCL9000006246 french. The Bouchon bistros from chef Thomas Keller (the French Laundry, Per Se) have become popular for their authentic good looks and superbly executed cuisine. One might begin with salmon rillettes followed by côte de porc, steak frites or a croque madame. Don’t forget oysters or crab legs from the raw bar. Br (Sa–Su), L, D (daily). 235 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.271.9910, bouchonbistro.com cHayaCL0000022125 international. The original Chaya in Japan remains open after 385 years, and Chaya’s popularity endures in Los Angeles, too. The Japanese-accented French/Italian menus are accomplished and in-
BRUcE JamES PHOTOGRaPHy
anDreW kirScHner oF tar & roSeS
h STARRED LISTINGS ARE FEATURED GUESTBOOK ADVERTISERS. 1 0 0 W H E R E G U E S T B O O K
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PRIME STEAKS. LEGENDARY SERVICE.
Fine Wine • Private Dining • New Menu
Los Angeles Downtown | 735 South Figueroa St. 213.553.4566
Beverly Hills SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills 435 S. La Cienega Blvd. 310.246.1501
Burbank Media District | 3400 West Olive Ave. 818.238.0424
mortons.com
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HARICOTS VERTS WITH GRILLED PEACHES, BURRATA AND GARAM MASALA AT THE PARISH DOWNTOWN
novative. Downtown: L (M–F), D (nightly). L.A., Venice: L (M–F), D (nightly). 8741 Alden Drive, L.A., 310.859.8833; 110 Navy St., Venice, 310.396.1179; 525 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.236.9577. thechaya.com CULINACL9000007069 Italian. A contemporary take on regional Italian cuisine is the theme at Culina, where ample coastal inspirations are evident on the menu. The modern design includes a sleek crudo bar and an impressive 25-foot chandelier. B, L (M–Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, 300 S. Doheny Drive, L.A., 310.860.4000, culinarestaurant.com CUTCL0000022131 Steak. A collaboration between Getty Center architect Richard Meier and celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, Cut is the place to savor genuine Wagyu beef steaks ($150-plus) or dryaged Nebraska beef. Puck’s menu is
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short on nostalgia but long on flavor. D (M–Sa). Beverly Wilshire Hotel, 9500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.276.8500, wolfgangpuck.com IVY RESTAURANTCL0000022150 American. This is one of the entertainment industry’s favorite gathering spots; if your face isn’t well known, be prepared for a cool reception. American comfort food is often deconstructed to suit the celebrity clientele. B, L, D (daily), Br (Su). 113 N. Robertson Blvd., L.A., 310.274.8303; Ivy at the Shore, 1535 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.393.3113. ivyrestaurantgroup.com ★ MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSECL0000022161 Steak. Mastro’s serves USDA Prime steaks in an atmosphere as sizzling as its 400-degree plates. Look for the 2-foot-tall seafood-tower appetizer, sides such as lobster mashed potatoes and a melt-in-your-mouth warm butter cake for dessert. The third-floor Penthouse at Mastro's is new in Beverly Hills. D (nightly). 246 N. Cañon
Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.888.8782; 2087 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, 805.418.1811. mastrosrestaurants.com
features the freshest, most artfully presented sushi, sashimi and shabu-shabu dishes. D (Tu–Sa). 218 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.247.8939
RED MEDICINECL0000333514 Vietnamese. The progressive Vietnamese-inspired restaurant doesn’t hew to traditions, but the results are intriguing, and aesthetics are paramount—dishes are carefully plated with herbs and flowers, resembling tiny landscapes. International influences come into play in dishes such as chicken dumplings and green papaya salad. Open late. D (nightly). 8400 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 323.651.5500, redmedicinela.com
WOLFGANG PUCK AT HOTEL BEL-AIR American. A favorite hideaway of Hollywood elite, the Hotel Bel-Air offers an indoor-outdoor retreat helmed by the father of California cuisine. Cantonese roasted duck gets an L.A. twist with figs and fresh pea tendrils, while his take on wiener schnitzel, served with a marinated fingerling potato salad, reminds diners of his Austrian roots. B, D (daily), L (M–Sa), Br (Su), tea (F–Sa). 701 Stone Canyon Road, Bel-Air, 310.909.1644, hotelbelair.com/wolfgang-puck-bel-air
SCARPETTACL9000007740 Italian. Scott Conant’s much-lauded NYC-based concept is replicated at the Montage Beverly Hills hotel. Conant is deservedly famous for dishes such as porcini-and-Tallegio ravioli with truffles as well as a simple, unbeatable spaghetti with tomato and basil. Br (Su), D (nightly). Montage Beverly Hills, 225 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.860.7970, montagebeverlyhills.com/beverlyhills-restaurants.php SPAGO California. Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant is reimagined on the heels of its 30th anniversary. Among changes are an airy, more modern dining room and small-plate offerings including barbecued sting ray with spicy sambal, and Santa Barbara spot prawns with suckling pig and hachiya persimmons. Glimpse some of the 30,000 wine bottles on offer in a glass-ensconced “wine wall.” L (Tu–Sa), D (M–Sa). 176 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.385.0880, wolfgangpuck.com URASAWACL0000022195 Japanese. If you’re serious about sushi, make a date to sit at the cypress bar of Urasawa. Here you’ll be treated to an incredible omakase dinner—don’t even ask about price—that
BRENTWOOD KATSUYACL0000022153 Japanese. Sushi chef Katsuya Uechi turns out exotic delicacies in sultry spaces by designer Philippe Starck. From signature cocktails to king crab cooked over the robata grill to exotically flavored crème brûlées, Katsuya is never boring. Additional locations downtown and in Glendale. L (M– F), D (nightly). 11777 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.207.8744; 6300 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.871.8777. sbeent.com/katsuya SUGARFISHCL9000006267 Japanese. Kazunori Nozawa— aka the “Sushi Nazi,” chef/owner of the former Sushi Nozawa—opens casual spots offering preset menus. Tips are included, but prices are about half those at the original. Additional locations downtown and in Santa Monica and Studio City. L, D (daily). 11640 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.820.4477; Waterside at the Marina, 47221/4 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.306.6300. sugarfishsushi.com TAVERNCL9000006270 California. Chef Suzanne Goin’s third L.A. restaurant explores rustic Cal fare in chic environs, including
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a popular sunlit indoor patio. The frequently changing menu might include “devil’s chicken” with leeks and mustard breadcrumbs or grilled halibut with wild chanterelles. B, L, D (daily), Br (Sa–Su). 11648 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.806.6464, tavernla.com
cULvER ciTy -fRamECL0000333500 a Eclectic. Roy Choi, whose Kogi launched a thousand food trucks, offers a globally influenced comfortfood menu (beer-can chicken, furikake kettle corn) enjoyed at long communal “picnic” tables or around a firepit. Cocktails are concocted with house-made infusions and fresh juices. L (Sa–Su), D (nightly). 12565 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.398.7700, aframela.com LUKSHOnCL0000333510 Pan-asian. Sang Yoon, creator of one of L.A.’s best burgers at Father’s Office, changed directions by opening this slick Southeast Asian eatery. Try red crab fritters with chili jam— a twist on Singaporean chili crab— or whole seasonal fish with black bean ghee and a Far East–inspired cocktail. L (Tu–F), D (Tu–Sa). Helms Bakery, 3239 Helms Ave., Culver City, 310.202.6808, lukshon.com aTERLOO & ciTyCL9000007075 W British. Located on an unremarkable strip in Culver City is this surprisingly hip English gastropub dishing out house-made charcuterie, gourmet pizzas topped with Indian butter chicken and mushrooms with truffle oil, and spot-on cocktails. It’s certainly some of L.A.’s most sophisticated pub grub. D (nightly). 12517 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.391.4222, waterlooandcity.com
dOWnTOWn BÄcO mERcaT Eclectic. Sizzling hot chef Josef Centeno has drawn international praise for his uniquely inspired creations. His bäco, a flatbread sandwich filled
with ingredients such as oxtail hash or chicken escabeche, is a signature dish. Other selections on the diverse menu include buttermilk-fried quail and spicy hamachi crudo. L, D (daily). 408 S. Main St., downtown, 213.687.8808, bacomercat.com O-cHica m california. The Peruvian food-court stand that earned Ricardo Zarate the title of Best New Chef from Food & Wine is reinvented as a fine-dining destination. Comfort-food small plates populate the menu; check out the traditional lomo saltado or alpaca stew, served over a bed of tagliatelle and topped with a fried egg. Br (Su), L (M–Sa), D (nightly). 514 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.622.3744, mo-chica.com h nOÉ RESTaURanT & BaRCL0000022169 american. Visitors heading to the Museum of Contemporary Art or Walt Disney Concert Hall find Noé a convenient spot for a classy repaste. Noé executive chef Glen Ishii serves “neo-bistro” menu with a Japanese spin such as calamari with yuzu crème fraîche and chicken katsu sliders. D (nightly). Omni Los Angeles Hotel, 251 S. Olive St., downtown, 213.356.4100, noerestaurant.com
meet our other rock stars.
fresh creations, legendary burgers & more, cooked up live by some of the best in the business.
THE PaRiSH British. Chef Casey Lane, the young, James Beard Award–nominated chef behind the Tasting Kitchen, imagines a contemporary English gastropub where quality seasonal ingredients enhance tried-and-true British bar food. Small plates include poutine pigs’ feet, roasted bone marrow, rotisserie chicken with chorizo and farro, and baconwrapped scallops with parsnip mash. D (nightly). 840 S. Spring St., downtown, 213.225.2400, theparishla.com aTinaCL0000022178 P french. The Walt Disney Concert Hall is a lovely composition of impressive classical music offerings and fine dining at its in-house restaurant. Patina might be the best game in
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S'moreS in a jar at Superba Snack bar in venice
town when it comes to game dishes, including an entree of roasted venison with yams, celeriac and pear. D (Tu– Su). 141 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.3331, patinagroup.com RivERaCL9000006264 Latin. Chef John Sedlar showcases his flair for pan-Latin flavors and attention to detail; consider the housemade nixtamal tortillas inlaid with edible flowers or plates with designs stenciled in spices. A pioneer of the cocktail movement, Rivera has an unbeatable tequila bar. L (M–F), D (nightly). 1050 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.749.1460, riverarestaurant.com TaKami SUSHi & ROBaTaCL90 Japanese. Takami occupies the 21st floor of a downtown high-rise, and its wraparound veranda enhances the illusion of floating in air. Dine at the sushi bar or the robata bar, where skewers of seafood, vegetables and meats are grilled. L (M–F), D (nightly). 811 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.236.9600, takamisushi.com
h TRadER vic’SCL9000006271 Pan-asian. Trader Vic’s at L.A. Live continues 75 years of tiki tradition, offering an exotic menu that blends Polynesian, Asian, French and California cuisine in a festive, South Pacific-inspired dining room. Trader Vic’s founder Victor J. Bergeron invented the famous Mai Tai, and several iterations are offered here. L (M–Sa), D (nightly). L.A. Live, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.785.3330, tradervicsla.com WaTER GRiLLCL0000022198 Seafood. Downtown’s premier seafood restaurant, newly remodeled and hipper than ever, is famed for its huge platters of fruits de mer from the oyster bar. Low-temperature cooking methods are used in dishes such as pan-roasted Chilean sea bass with tomato jam and succotash, yielding sensational results. There’s no corkage fee, so why not BYOB? L (M–F), D (nightly). 544 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.891.0900, watergrill.com
BaRBRixCL9000007071 mediterranean. Of the new smallplate eateries, this restaurant, in a converted schoolhouse, is one of the best. Solo diners perch at the bar while couples relax on a charming patio and revelers toast by an exhibition kitchen. Among the standouts are pappardelle with guinea hen ragù. Br (Sa–Su), D (nightly). 2442 Hyperion Ave., Silver Lake, 323.662.2442, barbrix.com cLEOCL9000007078 mediterranean. The SBE group’s noisy mezze bar is an unquestionable high point of the Hollywood dining scene. Chef Daniel Elmaleh’s eastern and southern Mediterranean small plates include kebabs of pork belly and blood sausage, wood-burned flatbreads and crispy Brussels sprouts. Cocktails are expensive but irresistible. D (nightly). The Redbury, 1717 Vine St., Hollywood, 323.962.1711, cleorestaurant.com THE HUnGRy caTCL0000333563 Seafood. East Coast fare—Dungeness crab benedict, a lobster roll, you-peel or they-peel shrimp—is offered in hip little spots. The Santa Monica restaurant has an ocean view. Cocktails are among the best in town. Hollywood: Br (Sa–Su), L (M–F), D (nightly). Santa Monica: Br (Sa–Su), D (nightly). 1535 Vine
St., Hollywood, 323.462.2155; 100 W. Channel Road, Santa Monica, 310.459.3337. thehungrycat.com LamiLL cOffEE BOUTiqUECL9000006256 american. With its retro-chic design, unique coffee service and affordable menu, this is a laid-back, versatile eatery. Dishes such as Fiscalini cheddar grilled cheese are followed by exquisitely presented desserts such as made-to-order brioche doughnut holes. B, L, D (daily). 1636 Silver Lake Blvd., Silver Lake, 323.663.4441, lamillcoffee.com OSTERia mOzzaCL0000022174 italian. Famed L.A.-based bread maker Nancy Silverton teamed up with affable Mario Batali on Mozza’s duo of contemporary Italian restaurants. Osteria Mozza is a more sophisticated dining room in which to experience the repertory of these great transcontinental talents. D (nightly). 6602 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.0100, mozza-la.com PizzERia mOzzaCL0000333473 italian. The other half of Nancy Silverton and Mario Batali’s Mozza, Pizzeria Mozza is a more relaxed dining experience, and it’s far easier to get a table than at its cousin, Osteria Mozza, next door. It features pizzas, cheeses and salumi plates, and rustic daily specials. L, D (daily). 641 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.297.0101, mozza-la.com PUBLic KiTcHEn & BaRCL0000333508 american. Veteran chef/restaurateur Tim Goodell strikes an attractive balance between the spirit of a pub and fine dining. Pork is a major theme here—for instance, chicharrónes accented with lime, and pork belly over soft polenta. Br (Su), L (M–F), D (nightly). 7000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.466.7000, thompsonhotels.com yamaSHiROCL9000006275 Pan-asian. This restaurant occupies a replica of a Kyoto palace with a garden court and city views, making it special
PaScaL SHiRLEy
WP24CL90076 Pan-asian. From its 24th-floor roost, WP24 proves that Wolfgang Puck, who pioneered Asian fusion, still has the goods. The restaurant might offer downtown’s best skyline views. Highlights include wild mushroom and king crab hot and sour soup, and steamed bao filled with pork belly. Dim sum (Su), D (M–Sa). The RitzCarlton, Los Angeles, 900 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.743.8824, r itzc arlto n . c o m /e n / p rope r ti e s / losangeles
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before you even look at the menu. CalAsian fare includes miso salmon with lemon mashed potatoes and sweet-andspicy shrimp. D (nightly). 1999 N. Sycamore Ave., Hollywood, 323.466.5125, yamashirorestaurant.com
LA CIENEGA BOULEVARD/ RESTAURANT ROW THE BAZAAR BY JOSÉ ANDRÉSC Spanish. Star chef José Andrés brings a whimsical set of Spanishstyle dining experiences to the eminently stylish SLS Hotel. Cuisine ranges from rustic fare to the molecular gastronomy creations that have made Spain a culinary leader. Tasting room Saam offers an unforgettable 22-course prix fi xe menu. D (nightly). SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills, 465 S. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.246.5555, thebazaar.com FOGO DE CHÃOCL0000022136 Steak. The city’s best churrascaria— Brazilian steakhouse-barbecue restaurant—is this restaurant with muraled walls and soaring ceilings. After a trip to a massive salad-appetizer bar, guests are treated to an endless procession of meats carved right onto their plates. L (M–F), D (nightly). 133 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.289.7755, fogodechao.com MATSUHISACL0000022162 Japanese. Superchef Nobu Matsuhisa’s more modest original restaurant, Matsuhisa, incorporates luxurious Western ingredients and Latin American spices. Sashimi tacos, gold-leaf-wrapped monkfish liver, and yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño are just a few of his dazzling creations. L (M–F), D (nightly). 129 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.659.9639, nobumatsuhisa.com NOBUCL9000006261 Japanese. The glitzy flagship of Nobu Matsuhisa attracts celebrities as well as serious foodies. An extensive menu of traditional and avant-garde sushi includes many
dishes with beguiling Peruvian accents. Sakes and omakase feasts result in soaring tabs, but the cuisine measures up. West Hollywood: D (nightly). Malibu: L (Sa–Su), D (nightly). 903 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.657.5711; Nobu Malibu, 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.9140. noburestaurants.com
Winner “Top 10 Best Italian Restaurant in L.A.!” -Citysearch
MALIBU ★ CHART HOUSECL0000022124 Seafood. These restaurants offer seafood and chophouse fare in seaside settings. In addition to newer menu items—such as a crab, avocado and mango stack—are old favorites including slow-roasted prime rib and chocolate lava cake. Other locations include Redondo Beach. L (Sa–Su), D (nightly). 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.454.9321; 13950 Panay Way, Marina del Rey, 310.822.4144. chart-house.com DUKE’S MALIBUCL0000022134 Seafood. Named after the father of international surfi ng, 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 fi sh and tropical cocktails. Br (Su), L (Tu–Sa), D (nightly). 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.0777, dukesmalibu.com
PASADENA HAVEN GASTROPUB + BREWERY American. L.A. importing an Orange County restaurant is rare, and so are the animals and exotic parts on Chef Greg Daniels’ menu, a love letter to meat. Begin with an appetizer of pork rillettes, move on to braised lamb shank with wild mushroom polenta and end with a slice of red velvet beet cake. Many ingredients are house-made—even the truffle salt! L, D (daily). 42 S. De Lacey Ave., Pasadena, 626.768.9555, havengastropub.com
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Half price bottles of wine Friday through Sunday! RESTRICTIONS APPLY. SEE YOUR SERVER FOR DETAILS.
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TRY OUR FABULOUS FOOD AND MAI TAIS! Downtown Los Angeles at L.A. Live 800 West Olympic., #A120 Los Angeles, Ca 90015 213.785.3330 • tradervicsla.com RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED
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h LOUiSE’S TRaTTORiaCL0000022159 italian. An L.A. favorite since 1978, Louise’s Trattoria delivers Italian cooking with a whimsical California flair. Its five locations are in Hancock Park, Brentwood, Santa Monica, Old Pasadena and West L.A. L, D (daily). 2 Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.568.3030; 232 N. Larchmont Blvd., L.A., 323.962.9510. louises.com h mUSHa Japanese. Drinks, laughs and unique food creations rule at this traditional izakaya. The menu features tempura shrimp glazed with spicy mayo, a lobster roll, an Okonomiyaki-style octopus omelet and fresh mackerel seared table-side. The restaurant has a modern decor and lively Tokyo-style vibe. 58 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.405.1518; 424 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.576.6330; 1725 Carson St., Torrance, 310.787.7344. musha.us h PaRKWay GRiLLCL0000333530 california. The handsome, brick-clad dining room offers some of Pasadena’s best meals. The diverse, globally inspired dinner menu includes Hawaiian ahi poke and prosciutto-and-arugula pizza. L (M–F), D (nightly). 510 S. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena, 626.795.1001, theparkwaygrill.com THE ROycECL0000333506 american. The Langham Huntington Hotel’s restaurant has a contemporary look with tufted white banquettes and glass-enclosed wine storage. Guy Savoy–trained chef David Feau does molecular gastronomy with a keen sense of aesthetics. Among dishes is a slow-poached lobster topped with an icy pomegranate powder. D (Tu–Sa). 1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena, 626.585.6410, roycela.com HiROCL0000022185 S international. Chef/owner Hideo Yamashiro fuses French and Asian flavors and techniques. A big-city restaurant in the suburbs, the pastel-
hued dining room is a contemporary backdrop to signature dishes such as shrimp mousse ravioli and whole fried catfish. D (W–Su). 1505 Mission St., South Pasadena, 626.799.4774, restaurantshiro.com
SanTa mOnica BORdER GRiLLCL9000006244 mexican. At Border Grill, chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger combine their unabashed love for Mexico’s market vendors and taco stands. The result: bold, fresh and innovative Mexican cuisine that makes this colorful cantina a perennial favorite. Br (Sa–Su), L, D (daily). 1445 4th St., Santa Monica, 310.451.1655; 445 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.486.5171. bordergrill.com aRmSHOPCL0000333509 f california. Chef-owner Jeff Cerciello was formerly culinary director at Bouchon, and the bistro’s influence shows in his simple, comforting cuisine. Brunch is tops; dinners, served family-style, might feature smoked trout salad, roasted organic chicken and artisan cheeses. B, L (daily), Br (Sa–Su), D (W–Su). Brentwood Country Mart, 225 26th St., Santa Monica, 310.566.2400, farmshopla.com THE LOBSTERCL0000022157 Seafood. Enjoy a view of the Pacific while indulging in superlative seafood from this Santa Monica Pier-adjacent restaurant. The outdoor patio is most coveted for sampling the eponymous crustacean in various iterations. Chef Collin Crannell does a fine job with other seafood dishes, too. L, D (daily). 1602 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.458.9294, thelobster.com mÉLiSSECL0000022163 french. At Mélisse, consistently among L.A.’s highest-rated restaurants, chef-owner Josiah Citrin executes a sophisticated modern French menu filled with luxe ingredients. Start a bit of tender Wagyu beef flavored with a smoked tomato emulsion before superb game dishes and selec-
tions from a nonpareil cheese cart. D (Tu–Sa). 1104 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.395.0881, melisse.com RUSTic canyOnCL9000006265 california. Discover boutique wines while sampling small plates of market-driven, Cal-Med dishes. Farro salad with roasted quince, papardelle with braised beef cheeks and kabocha squash arancini are just a few of the winners. Hide in a cozy booth or mingle at the communal table. D (nightly). 1119 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.393.7050, rusticcanyonwinebar.com TaR & ROSES american. Ex-Wilshire Restaurant chef Andrew Kirschner’s first restaurant focuses on small, rustic shareable plates cooked in his wood-burning oven, but with a few days’ notice he can also whip up large, lavish familystyle suppers of Moroccan-spiced goat or standing rib rack. D (nightly). 602 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.587.0700, tarandroses.com vaLEnTinOCL0000022196 italian. For more than 30 years, Piero Selvaggio has maintained his flagship’s status as a preeminent temple of Italian gastronomy. A telephonebook-sized wine list—often cited as America’s best—is supported by a cellar containing more than 100,000 bottles. L (F), D (M–Sa). 3115 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.829.4313, valentinosantamonica.com
SOUTH Bay m.B. POSTCL0000333507 american. David LeFevre, a Charlie Trotter protégé, left formal Water Grill to open this laid-back eatery with intelligently conceived small plates at reasonable prices. The “Eat Your Vegetables” menu makes green beans and cauliflower look downright tantalizing, and the buttermilk fried chicken arrives with lemon-rosemary ranch dressing. Br (F–Su), D (nightly). 1142 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach,, 310.545.5405, eatmbpost.com
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MaR’SElCL0000333528 California. Set above sparkling Palos Verdes Peninsula, Mar’sel at the Terranea Resort captures an incredible ocean vista. Chef Michael Fiorelli is serious about sustainability in his fresh, flavor-packed cuisine, cooking with citrus fruits and herbs plucked from own on-site garden. D (W–Su). Terranea Resort, 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, 310.265.2701, terranea.com/marsel/ THE STRand HOUSECL0000333505 american. This South Bay newcomer with awesome ocean views is sophisticated enough to compete with restaurants in the county’s hipper parts. House-made charcuterie precedes dishes such as wild boar sausage pizza and spitroasted suckling pig. Butterscotch doughnuts end the meal with a bang. Br (Sa–Su), L (Tu–F), D (Tu– Su). 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.7470, thestrandhousemb.com
VallEy
VEnICE GjElInaCL9000006250 California. Under the direction of talented young chef Travis Lett, hipster servers in T-shirts and newsboy caps deliver seasonal Cal-Med small plates and pizzas to chic Westsiders. It’s one of Venice’s most popular restaurants, and the neighborhood’s most lively patio. Br (Sa–Su), L (M–F), D (nightly). 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1429, gjelina.com SUnny SPOT Eclectic. Food-truck pioneer Roy Choi interprets Carribbean cuisine with explosive flavors and global influences. Playful small plates include “What a Jerk” chicken wings and the “We Be Yammin’ ” sweet-potato tart. Try sweet-and-salty fried plantains and the pineapple pork chop with Red Stripe beer glaze. Br (call for days served), D (nightly). 822 Washington Blvd., Venice, 310.448.8884, sunnyspotvenice.com
OMBRaCL0000333511 Italian. In the shadows of Universal Studios is this warm restaurant, a standout in its neighborhood. The casunziei (beet-stuffed pasta) is a good version of this northeastern Italian specialty, and cross-cultural influences enter into dishes such as albacore tuna kebabs drizzled in Sicilian herb vinaigrette. L (M–F), D (M–Sa). 3737 Cahuenga Blvd., Studio City, 818.985.7337, ombrala.com
SUPERBa SnaCK BaR Italian. At Jason Neroni and Paul Hibler’s pastaria, house-made noodles are given the most attention, occasionally smoked and infused for maximum flavor. A short wine list includes only California labels, and a selection of beer- and wine-based cocktails is available. Reservations available for parties of six or more only. Br (Sa–Su), L (F), D (nightly). 533 Rose Ave., Venice, 310.399.6400, superbasnackbar.com
SaddlE PEaK lOdGECL0000022184 american. Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, this hunt-lodgethemed spot is a study in romantic rusticity, with moose heads overlooking candlelit tables. The menu focuses on game dishes such as seared New Zealand elk tenderloin or grilled Texas nilgai antelope. Br (Su), D (W–Su). 419 Cold Canyon Road, Calabasas, 818.222.3888, saddlepeaklodge.com
THE TaSTInG KITCHEnCL0000333516 Eclectic. Hipster foodies flock to this loud but lovely dining room for a daily changing menu of innovative yet unpretentious cuisine: small or large plates of cured meats, a dozen artisan cheeses, vegetables, seafood and pastas, including a tagliatelle laden with truffles. Br (Sa– Su), D (nightly). 1633 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.392.6644, thetastingkitchen.com
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Tony P’s serves up the finest in steaks, seafood, pastas and more in a comfortable setting overlooking beautiful Marina del Rey.
4445 Admiralty Way Marina del Rey, CA 90292 (310) 823-4534 www.tonyps.com
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Ray’S & STaRK BaRCL0000333512 mediterranean. This restaurant/ cocktail bar is almost too good to be hidden in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art campus. Kris Morningstar offers soulwarming dishes—Alaskan halibut with savory butter beans, woodgrilled young chicken—augmented with produce and herbs from an adjacent garden. L, D (Th–Tu). 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6180, raysandstarkbar.com
SeSame SoY-GLaZeD veaL SHort rib WitH kimcHi at m.b. poSt in manHattan beacH
WEST HOLLyWOOd/ midTOWn
SOn Of a GUnCL0000333513 Seafood. 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 salmon collar, miniature lobster rolls and shrimp toast sandwiches with Sriracha-spiked mayo in a nautically themed space. L (M–F), D (nightly). 8370 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.9033, sonofagunrestaurant.com
WESTSidE
EvELEiGH american. 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 house-made ingredients right down to the apple gomme syrup in your cocktail and the brioche toast slices with your Jidori chicken liver pâté. Br (Sa–Su), D (nightly). 8752 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.239.1630, theeveleigh.com
GORdOn RamSay aT THE LOndOn WEST HOLLyWOOd Eclectic. The tyrant from TV’s Hell’s Kitchen arrives in L.A. to demonstrate why he has racked up more than a dozen Michelin stars. The restaurant is a hip setting in which to enjoy eclectically inspired dishes such as miso-glazed black cod and Dungeness crab salad with jicama, harissa and chive cream. D (nightly). The London West Hollywood, 1020 N. San Vicente Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.358.7788, thelondonwesthollywood.com
BLT STEaKCL9000006243 Steak. This winning formula on the Sunset Strip proves that the French bistro and the American steakhouse can be seamlessly blended. After appetizers such as tuna tartare or the complimentary Gruyère cheese popovers, steaks are the main attraction, ranging from ultra-pricey Kobe to domestic Angus beef. D (Tu–Sa). 8720 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.360.1950, bltsteak.com
OSTERia dRaGO italian. Prolific restaurateur/chef and Sicilian native Celestino Drago opens another outpost serving his reliably delicious and comforting cuisine. Shellfish with a citrus vinaigrette is served atop a smooth sea urchin panna cotta, while a raviolo stuffed with ricotta and oozing egg yolk is topped with shaved truffles. L (M–F), D (nightly). 8741 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 310.657.1182, osteriadrago.com
cRafTCL0000022129 american. New York chef Tom Colicchio of TV’s Top Chef brings his signature concept to L.A. Craft delivers an endless, contemporary American à la carte menu, with fun, shareable dishes including roasted octopus with romesco and tomatillos with avocado and spiced peanuts. L (M–F), D (M–Sa). 10100 Constellation Blvd. Century City, 310.279.4180, craftrestaurant.com
afE dEL REy c american. Ogle impressive pleasure boats in the marina at this waterfront restaurant with a plentiful array of fresh catch. Sample platters of fruits de mer and a variety of creatively prepared tuna crudos at the raw bar. Popular entrees include salmon served atop a crunchy capellini cake with dill crème fraîche. Br (Su), L (M–Sa), D (nightly). 4451 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.823.6395, cafedelreymarina.com
ninETHiRTyCL9000007755 american. The vibe at this stylish indoor-outdoor restaurant is that of pastoral homestead injected with urban energy. Start your meal with tuna melt sliders, then munch on flat iron steak augmented with pasillabarbecue sauce and truffle fries. B, D (Tu–Sa), Br (Sa–Su), L (Tu–F). W Los Angeles, 930 Hilgard Ave., Westwood, 310.443.8211, ninethirtyw.com PiccaCL0000333515 Peruvian. Ricardo Zarate’s second Peruvian restaurant has grand ambitions and a Japanese twist, with a more dressed-up dining room and larger menu featuring small plates of ceviches, tiraditos, anticuchos and Peruvian-style sushi. The mezzanine bar serves pisco cocktails. D (nightly). 9575 W. Pico Blvd., L.A., 310.277.0133, piccaperu.com SOTTO italian. Co-chef/owners Zach Pollack and Steve Samson dish up beautifully executed pizzas and rustic trattoria specialties. Great ingredients elevate a traditional margherita pie, and the campagnola pizza is layered with fingerling potatoes, fennel and mozzarella, and topped with a soft egg if you desire. Intriguing pastas include squid-ink-infused fusilli with pistachios and bottarga. L (W–F), D (Tu– Su). 9575 W. Pico Blvd., West L.A., 310.277.0210, sottorestaurant.com h TOny P’S dOcKSidE GRiLLCL0000022193 american. Tony P’s serves generous portions of fine steaks, seafood and pastas in a comfortable waterfront space. Alaskan king crab is among the most popular dishes. Settle into the sports bar, Tony P’s Tavern, to watch the game with a cold one. B (Sa–Su), L, D (daily). 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.823.4534, tonyps.com
fOR mORE dininG dESTinaTiOnS, SEE WHERE LOS ANGELES maGazinE and dOWnLOad THE WHERE USA aPP
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SPECIAL ADvERTISInG SECTIOn
L.A. PRImE Located on the 35th floor of the Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites, the award-winning L.A. Prime invites diners to experience a culinary adventure in a relaxed atmosphere with refined service. Known for its innovative and edgy cuisine, L.A. Prime offers prime beef steaks, wet and dry-aged, as well as beautiful lamb chops, veal Oscar, and fresh fish and shellfish. Dishes are enhanced with local produce and paired with wines from an award-winning list recognized by Wine Spectator. Executive chef Andreas nieto has created a masterful menu of artfully presented dishes made with fresh ingredients to please the palate. Stars wink through floor-to-ceiling windows as diners sit back, relax and enjoy all that downtown has to offer. D (nightly).
HERB ALPERT’S
VIBRATO GRILL JAZZ Conceived by Grammy Award-winning musical icon Herb Alpert, vibrato Grill Jazz is one of the city’s premier jazz clubs, and the only one that incorporates fine dining in a sophisticated setting. Guests are immersed in an elegant space with stunning visuals, including original art by Alpert. In addition to worldclass jazz and unobstructed views of the stage from every seat, vibrato offers a contemporary American menu whose items range from USDA Prime steaks to exquisite seafood delicacies to sumptuous desserts. Complement your meal with a bottle from a wine list honored with an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator magazine, or enjoy a specialty cocktail poured by skilled mixologists. Reservations suggested. Live jazz nightly. D (Tu–Su).
404 S. Figueroa St., downtown
2930 Beverly Glen Circle, Bel-Air
213.624.1000
310.474.9400
thebonaventure.com
vibratogrilljazz.com
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CHEVAL BISTRO
Smitty’s Grill
The newest addition to the Smith Brothers family of restaurants, Cheval Bistro, has introduced the unique beauty of traditional French bistro fare to the Old Pasadena scene. The sprawling antique bar offers cocktails, single-malt scotches and a wide selection of French and California wines by the bottle and glass. With a broad menu consisting of classic bistro fare such as steak frites, duck confit and coq au vin, Cheval Bistro brings an authentic French comfort-food experience that guests new to French cuisine, as well as seasoned gastronomical Francophiles, will appreciate. Cheval Bistro is also open for brunch every Sunday from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm. Brioche French toast, chilled lobster salad, a croque monsieur and croque madame are some of the delicious items on the brunch menu. Reservations suggested. D (W-Su), Br (Su).
With Smitty’s Grill, the Smith Brothers bring you American comfort food at its best. Set in a clubby grill atmosphere with vintage photos depicting Hollywood glamour, Smitty’s offers familiar all-American dishes. “Smitty’s is a fine place in which to rediscover a cuisine that many of us have forgotten: our own. It is truly America the scrumptious,” says Merrill Schindler of Zagat. The menu features iron-skillet cornbread, filet mignon, homemade chicken pot pie, barbecue baby back ribs, Smitty’s famous meatloaf and more. The dining experience also features a stocked top-shelf bar and an extensive, award-winning wine list (Wine Spectator Award of Excellence). Reservations suggested. L (M–F), D (nightly).
41 S. De Lacey Ave., Pasadena
110 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
626.577.4141
626.792.9999
chevalbistro.com
smittysgrill.com
BISTRO
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Arroyo Chop House
PARKWAY GRILL
The Smith Brothers’ modern take on the classic American steakhouse, Arroyo Chop House, serves exclusively USDA Prime beef. This strikingly handsome restaurant, inspired by the Arts and Crafts architectural style for which Pasadena is famous, is clad in rich mahogany, and the cozy booths are bathed in seductive light. The prime steaks are aged and hand-cut daily and perfectly seared in a 1,500-degree broiler. The restaurant also offers live Maine lobster, fresh seafood, Alaskan king crab legs, fresh oysters and shrimp. Complement your meal with a bottle from the award-winning wine list (Wine Spectator Award of Excellence) or enjoy one of the many premium single-malt scotches. Reservations suggested. Piano music nightly. D (nightly).
The Smith Brothers’ trend-setter in innovative regional American cuisine, Parkway Grill specializes in a seasonal, market-driven approach to cooking that incorporates diverse influences and classic French technique. It has been acclaimed as one of America’s top tables by Gourmet magazine and one of the top 40 most popular restaurants in Southern California by Zagat. Throughout its 28 years, Parkway Grill has showcased an intriguing array of dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Demonstrating the ultimate commitment to fresh produce, Parkway Grill planted its own organic vegetable and herb garden behind the restaurant, which continues to thrive in the heart of Pasadena. Recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, the wine list features selections from many of California’s finest small producers. Reservations suggested. Piano music Monday through Saturday evenings. L (M–F), D (nightly).
536 S. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena
510 S. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena
626.577.7463
626.795.1001
arroyochophouse.com
theparkwaygrill.com
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hollywood walk of fame, edwin santiago
ATTRACTIONS THEME PARKS, STUDIO TOURS, recreational pursuits, museums, concert halls, STARGAZING AND SPOTS OF HISTORICAL INTEREST: they’re ALL HERE.
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aTTRaCTiOnS
THE GRAMMY MUSEUM AT L.A. LIVE DOWNTOWN
indUSTRy HiSTORy The entertainment industry is spotlighted at a trio of l.a. museums. The academy of Motion Picture arts and Sciences in Beverly Hills, which presents the academy awards, offers exhibits on important figures (Stanley Kubrick is featured through March), technical achievements and other highlights in film's history. also in Beverly Hills, the Paley Center for Media examines TV and radio and offers a vast library of programs that can be viewed on demand. a new interactive exhibit, Television Out of the Box, features props, costumes and other ephemera from more than 60 TV shows. The Grammy Museum at downtown's l.a. live studies the history of popular music across genres and the Grammy awards. Various exhibitions have paid tribute to legends such as the late Whitney Houston, and in addition to a plethora of memorabilia are engaging interactive digital exhibits.
aUTRy naTiOnal CEnTER OF THE aMERiCan WEST The merger of the Southwest Museum of the American Indian, the Museum of the American West and the Women of the West Museum has created the Autry National Center of the American West, named for performer Gene Autry. Programs explore the stories of cultures and examine how their interaction has affected the history of the American West. 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.667.2000, autrynationalcenter.org h CaliFORnia aFRiCan aMERiCan MUSEUMCL0000022308 This institution celebrating African American art, culture and history includes exhibition galleries plus a courtyard, conference center and research library. In addition to ongoing exhibitions, see rotating special exhibitions such as African American Military Portraits From the American Civil War. 600 State Drive, Exposition Park, 213.744.7432, caamuseum.org h CaliFORnia SCiEnCE CEnTER2308 Fun, informative, interactive exhibits showcase innovation and in-
vention, biology and air and space engineering. The Imax theater offers education with thrills. The science center is the new permanent home of retired NASA space shuttle Endeavour. 700 Exposition Park Drive, downtown, 323.724.3623, californiasciencecenter.org CaTHEdRal OF OUR lady OF THE anGElS The cathedral, opened in 2002, was designed by Spanish architect José Rafael Moreno. The late Robert Graham sculpted the luminous doorway with the statue of Our Lady of the Angels; inside, sunlight glows through translucent alabaster panels. Mass is daily; special events are scheduled throughout the year. 555 W. Temple St., downtown, 213.680.5200, olacathedral.org CHinaTOWn The neighborhood is composed of distinctive shops, markets and restaurants. For weekend brunch, have an authentic dim sum experience at Ocean Seafood or Empress Pavilion. Art galleries have sprung up over the past few years, and the bar scene has expanded. Chung King Road offers great antiques. Between César E. Chavez Avenue and Bernard Street, Yale and Spring streets, downtown, chinatownla.com dESCanSO GaRdEnS North America’s largest camellia collection includes 34,000 plants amid 20 acres of oaks. The rest of the 150 acres include the renovated Boddy House estate, the Carriage House Art Gallery, a bird observatory, the Lilac Garden and the Japanese Garden. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, 818.949.4200, descansogardens.org
diSnEyland “The happiest place on Earth,” which celebrates its 58th anniversary this year, is home to Mickey Mouse and eight fantastic “lands.” Highlights include Star Tours: the Adventures Continue, Space Mountain, Innoventions, the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, Fantasmic! and a fireworks show that somehow always outdoes itself. 1313 Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.781.4565, disneyland.com diSnEy’S CaliFORnia adVEnTURE Disneyland’s state-themed counterpart offers lands based on Hollywood, beach culture and the Gold Rush. The World of Color is a spectacular water, light and sound attraction. Other highlights: Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, the Little Mermaid—Ariel’s Undersea Adventure and the Pixar-film-inspired Cars Land. 1313 Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.781.4565, disneyland.com dOdGER STadiUMC Since 1962, more than 125 million fans have watched the Los Angeles Dodgers play baseball at Dodger Stadium. Spectators are awed by a breathtaking view of downtown, green, tree-lined Elysian hills and the San Gabriel Mountains. 1000 Elysian Park Ave., downtown, 866.363.4377, ladodgers.com dOlBy THEaTRECL0000022328 This home of the Academy Awards, formerly the Kodak Theatre, has also been host to a range of artists and notable TV and awards events. Guided tours, offered daily, offer visitors architectural and historical highlights and an insider’s look at the Oscars ceremony. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.308.6300, dolbytheatre.com
Ryan MillER/CaPTURE iMaGinG
aTTRaCTiOnS h aQUaRiUM OF THE PaCiFiCCL0000022306 Journey through ocean climates of sunny Southern California and Baja, the frigid waters of the North Pacific and the reefs of the tropical Pacific, and meet more than 12,000 marine animals. Touch the ocean’s predators in Shark Lagoon, or greet tuxedoed birds in the new June Keyes Penguin Habitat. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100, aquariumofpacific.org
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GRaUMan’S CHinESE THEaTRE Built by master showman Sid Grauman, the theater—declared a historical landmark in 1968—is still a popular location for celebritypacked studio premieres. The concrete handprints and footprints in the forecourt have immortalized some of Hollywood’s brightest stars. 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.461.3331, chinesetheatres.com THE FLOWER DISTRICT DOWNTOWN
El CaPiTan THEaTRECL002631 The venue debuted in 1926 as a theatrical stage, graced by such stars as Clark Gable. In 1941, Citizen Kane had its world premiere at El Capitan. Now, as an exclusive first-run theater for Walt Disney Pictures, it hosts live stage shows and world premieres. 6838 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.7674, elcapitan.go.com El PUEBlO dE lOS anGElES El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument is the oldest section of Los Angeles, with 27 historic buildings clustered around an old plaza. Olvera Street (Alameda Street between Main and Los Angeles streets) is a festive open-air Mexican marketplace with restaurants and shops. 130 Paseo de la Plaza, downtown, 213.628.1274, ci.la.ca.us/elp/ ExPOSiTiOn PaRKCL9000006321 Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Exposition Park is the only site to host two summer Olympics (1932 and 1984). Adjoining attractions in-
clude a renowned rose garden, the Natural History Museum, California Science Center and California African American Museum. 700 Exposition Park Drive, downtown, 213.763.3466, expositionpark.org FaRMERS MaRKET What started in the summer of 1934 as a farmers market with produce sold from truck tailgates has become an L.A. institution, with more than 100 restaurants; produce, butcher and retail stalls; international gift shops; and even a couple of bars. 6333 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.933.9211, farmersmarketla.com FlOWER diSTRiCT The largest flower market in the U.S. is a spectacle, a feast for the eyes and nose. Buyers for the flower shops procure their flowers, available at wholesale prices, before the sun rises, so get there early (it opens to the public at 6 am on some days). 700 block of Wall Street, downtown, laflowerdistrict.com
GRiFFiTH OBSERVaTORy The most visited public observatory in the world reopened in 2006 after a $93 million renovation. The Big Picture is the largest (150 feet long and 20 feet high!) astronomically accurate image ever produced; the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon theater seats 200. 2800 E. Observatory Road, L.A., 213.473.0800, griffithobservatory.org GRiFFiTH PaRK With more than 4,210 acres of natural terrain and landscaped parkland, Griffith Park is the country’s largest municipal park. Highlights include the Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, Autry National Center of the American West, the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Greek Theatre, hiking trails and horseback riding. 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, L.A., 323.913.4688, laparks.org/ dos/parks/griffithpk HOllyWOOd WalK OF FaME Terrazzo and brass stars line the sidewalks and offer a history of the Hollywood entertainment industry, honoring those who have made
significant contributions in radio, television, motion pictures, recording and live performance. 2013 honorees include Ron Howard, Jennifer Hudson, James Franco and Viola Davis. Hollywood Boulevard from Gower Street to La Brea Avenue, Hollywood, 323.469.8311, hollywoodchamber.net
e
KnOTT’S BERRy FaRM A top-notch collection of roller coasters at “America’s first theme park” includes Boomerang, Silver Bullet, Sierra Sidewinder and Pony Express. Camp Snoopy is for the younger kids. During Halloween season, the park is transformed into Knott’s Scary Farm. Adjacent Soak City Water Park is open in summer. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.220.5200, knotts.com l.a. COUnTy aRBORETUM & BOTaniC GaRdEn The 127-acre gardens represent an extremely diverse world of plant life; it's known for its peafowl, which roam the grounds and perch in trees. The Queen Anne Cottage and “Lucky” Baldwin’s coach barn are among the historic buildings open for tours. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, 626.821.3222, arboretum.org h l.a. liVECL0000333415 A $2.5 billion project, L.A. Live is a sports, dining and entertainment center. Staples Center hosts sporting events and concerts, and Nokia Theatre L.A. Live and Club Nokia feature pop acts. You’ll also find bowling alley Lucky Strike Lanes and music and Grammy Award history at the Grammy Museum. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.763.5483, lalive.com lOS anGElES ZOO and BOTaniCal GaRdEnSCL0000022330 The L.A. Zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation and has created a program in which volunteers work with keepers to find ways to promote natural behaviors in animals.
EdWin SanTiaGO
GRand CEnTRal MaRKET See and taste L.A.’s international influences at the city’s oldest and largest open-air market, in business since 1917. Some 40 merchants offer delicacies from around the world. Stands offer pupusas, Cuban sandwiches, some of the city’s most authentic tacos and other global choices. 317 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.624.2378, grandcentralsquare.com
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C E a a s in t S a A H A o e C a
experience.
explore.
© NASA/Tony Gray and Tom Farrar
Photograph by Gene Ogami . Wishing on a Star, 2009 by Charles Dickson
enjoy.
Join us at Exposition Park, the crossroads of the Los Angeles community! CaliForNia aFriCaN aMeriCaN MuseuM
CaliForNia sCieNCe CeNter
Natural History MuseuM oF los aNGeles CouNty
CAAM is where art, history and culture come alive! Enjoy the visual experience of contemporary art and historical exhibitions, discussions, workshops and programs for all ages. Be sure to visit CAAM this season where you will find an array of exhibitions, including African American Military Portraits from the American Civil War; The Legacy of the Golden State Mutual Life Insurance Company: More Than a Business; Go Tell it on the Mountain; Coloring America: Selections from CAAM’s Permanent History Collection; Things That Cannot be Seen Any Other Way: The Art of Manuel Mendive. Watch out for Target Sundays at CAAM, the first Sunday of each month and remember we are always FREE. At CAAM, you can interpret yesterday, explore today and envision the future!
Embark on a journey of discovery as you explore over 150 interactive exhibits in our permanent galleries spanning more than 400,000 square feet. The California Science Center is now home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour located in the Samuel Oschin Pavilion. Before entering the Pavilion, experience Endeavour: The California Story, which celebrates Endeavour’s strong connection to California where all the orbiters were built. For tickets and information about all the California Science Center has to offer visit californiasciencecenter.org.
Discover 4.5 billion years of history under one roof at the largest natural history museum in the Western United States. NHM features grand mammal dioramas, rare dinosaur fossils, a spectacular gem hall and exhibits of pre-Columbian and California history. Explore natural landscapes of Africa and North America, a rainforest, distant cultures of the Aztec, Inca and Maya, and tour new permanent exhibits such as Age of Mammals and the Dinosaur Hall, one of the best dinosaur exhibits in the world. Each week find activities for children, families and adults that inspire wonder, discovery and responsibility for our natural and cultural worlds.
600 State Drive Los Angeles, CA 90037 213.744.7432 caamuseum.org
700 Exposition Park Drive Los Angeles, CA 90037 323.SCIENCE (724.3623) californiasciencecenter.org
900 Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007 213.763.DINO (3466) nhm.org
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The zoo is home to more than 1,200 animals and 7,000-plus plants. 5333 Zoo Drive, L.A., 323.644.4200, lazoo.org MadaME TUSSaUdS HOllyWOOd The interactive wax museum allows visitors to check out wax sculptures of favorite stars such as Brad Pitt, Nicole Kidman and Johnny Depp. Guests can mingle with actors on the red carpet, challenge sports heroes or take the stage with music megastars. Picture taking is encouraged. 6933 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.798.1670, madametussauds.com h MaliBU diSCOVERy TOURSCL9000007020 Experience the beauty and diversity of Malibu though unique tours of this legendary enclave for the rich and famous. Offerings include wine tours, hiking and horseback riding trails, and celebrity home tours. Options exploring neighboring Santa Monica, California’s most cosmopolitan seaside village, are also available. Tours daily. 2022 Broadway, Santa Monica, 310.393.6555, malibudiscovery.com h MUSEUM OF TOlERanCECL0000022332 The Museum of Tolerance hosts powerful exhibits on the Holocaust and such subjects as human rights, intolerance, immigration and family. Recent exhibitions have included Para Todos Los Niños: For All the Children. Simon Wiesenthal Plaza, 9786 W. Pico Blvd., West L.A., 310.553.8403, museumoftolerance.com
MUSEUM OF TOLERANCE www.museumoftolerance.com
9786 west pico boulevard los angeles, ca 90035 t: 310.553.8403
MUSiC CEnTER Four of the city’s most revered theaters are here: the Ahmanson Theatre, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Mark Taper Forum and Walt Disney Concert Hall. Resident companies present theater, opera, philharmonic and choral music. A free audio tour of the concert hall is available, as are tours of all of the venues. 151 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.7211, musiccenter.org
h naTURal HiSTORy MUSEUM OF lOS anGElES COUnTy00022308 The largest natural and historical museum in the western United States safeguards more than 35 million diverse specimens and artifacts. The historic building holds the largest collection of gold in the U.S., a kidfriendly Discovery Center and a Dinosaur Hall. 900 Exposition Blvd., downtown, 213.763.3460, nhm.org OCEan FROnT WalK You will see dancers, musicians, skaters, preachers, artists in virtually every medium and, of course, beautiful bikini-clad women. This bustling boardwalk lining Venice Beach teems with souvenir vendors and cheap eats. The famed Muscle Beach is also here. Between Marine Street and Grand Boulevard, Venice OlVERa STREET The colorful village features 27 historic buildings with a traditional Mexican-style plaza. Shop for souvenirs including handcrafted wares typical of old Mexico. Stop for taquitos or tacos at the outdoor cafes, or enjoy traditional Mexican cuisine such as enchiladas and mole. On weekends, strolling mariachis serenade the masses. Free tours are led by Las Angelitas docents. 845 N. Alameda St., downtown, olvera-street.com QUEEn MaRy SHiP and SEaPORT Guided and self-guided tours allow a view of the permanently berthed (and allegedly haunted) ocean liner and World War II troop ship, which made its final voyage in 1967. Enjoy a meal, shop and even spend the night in an original stateroom. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 562.435.3511. queenmary.com ROnald REaGan PRESidEnTial liBRaRy & MUSEUM Galleries and media provide highlights of Ronald Wilson Reagan’s life from childhood to the open-
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ing of the library and museum that bear his name. The Air Force One Pavilion houses the world’s only “flying White House” available for public viewing. 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, 800.410.8354, reaganlibrary.com h San Antonio WineryCL9000007020 Reminiscent of a time when vineyards carpeted large portions of Los Angeles, a visit to this family-run winery—a 95-year-old landmark and one of California’s largest producers—is an education in viticulture. Tour the winery, taste the latest vintages and feast on Italian specialties in its restaurant, Maddalena. 737 Lamar St., L.A., 323.223.1401, sanantoniowinery.com San Fernando MissionCL0000022343 The 17th of California’s 21 missions, Mission San Fernando Rey de España, was founded in 1797 and first produced soap and cloth; gold was purportedly found there years before California’s Gold Rush. The museum, archives and gardens are open to the public daily. 15151 San Fernando Mission Blvd., Mission Hills, 818.361.0186, thecaliforniamissions.com San Gabriel MissionCL0000022344 The Franciscan padres who founded the mission in 1771 nurtured crops of grapes, oranges, pears, peaches and figs; the mission has been called “the Mother of Agriculture in California.” Officially Mission San Gabriel Arcángel, its stone, brick and mortar bell tower is distinguished from those of other missions, which are adobe. 427 S. Junipero Serra Drive, San Gabriel, 626.457.3035, sangabrielmissionchurch.org Santa Anita ParkCL0000022345 Box-ticket holders at the historic horse track have included Fred Astaire, Walt Disney and Cecil B. De Mille. Old Hollywood elegance lives on at its clubs, which have a dress code and require an entry fee. Race
season is from December to April. 285 W. Huntington Drive, Arcadia, 626.574.7223, santaanita.com Santa Catalina IslandCL0000022311 Snorkel, kayak or tour the back side of this small island where buffalo run wild. Enjoy the ocean air at a number of seaside cafes and shops. The island can be reached by ferries departing from Long Beach, San Pedro and Marina del Rey. 310.510.1520, catalina.com Santa Monica Mountains National Recreational AreA Flowers bloom on the hillsides here year-round, and the climate and topography help create a diversity of vegetation that provides the habitat for 50 mammal, 400 bird and nearly a score of reptile and amphibian species. It’s a great place for hikers, horseback riders and bird watchers, too. 401 W. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks, 805.370.2301, nps.gov/samo Six Flags Magic Mountain This popular theme park has 17WhereLAGuestbook_SDZSafariPark_2013.indd roller coasters, including Green Lantern: First Flight and the world’s tallest, fastest and longest flying coaster, Tatsu. Thrill ride Full Throttle arrives this year. The Hurricane Harbor water park, open seasonally, is adjacent. 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Valencia, 661.255.4111, sixflags.com/parks/magicmountain
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Sony Pictures StudiosCL0000022348 Sony Pictures Studios celebrates Hollywood’s glory days and offers an insider’s view of a working motion picture studio. As guides lead a walking tour through the studio lot, they illuminate the film and TV production process and share tales of Hollywood legends. 10202 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.244.8687, sonypicturesstudios.com Staples CenterCL0000022349 This state-of-the-art sports arena is home to beloved L.A. sports teams:
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★ WARNER BROS. VIP STUDIO TOURCL0000022353 Guests are transported on electric carts for a two-hour excursion through the studio responsible for such classics as Casablanca and TV shows including The Big Bang Theory and The Ellen DeGeneres Show. The tour changes daily, based on where the action is. 3400 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank, 818.972.8687, wbstudiotour.com
PERFORMING ARTS
MARK TAPER FORUM AT THE MUSIC CENTER DOWNTOWN
The Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Clippers and the Los Angeles Kings all play here. The venue also hosts concerts by music’s biggest touring acts, such as Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga. 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.742.7340, staplescenter.com ★ STARLINE TOURSCL9000006387 Established in 1935, Starline offers an array of sightseeing tours to movie stars’ homes, including one focused on Malibu. Other selections include tours to beaches, theme parks, San Diego and Tijuana. Its double-decker hop-on hop-off tour has 50 stops from downtown to Santa Monica. 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 800.959.3131, starlinetours.com ★ TMZ HOLLYWOOD TOUR Starline Tours’ fasting growing option, the TMZ Hollywood Tour hits celebrity-related landmarks and sites of scandals, from the club where TMZ met Kim Kardashian, to the the fast-food joint where Brad Pitt once worked. The tour regularly
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encounters celebrities, all too happy to interact with guests. Tours daily. 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 855.486.9868, tmztour.com UNIVERSAL CITYWALKCL0000022351 The dining and shopping promenade adjacent to Universal Studios features 65 entertainment-themed restaurants, clubs, shops and movie theaters. Enjoy massive pasta dishes at Buca di Beppo, take in a concert at Gibson Amphitheatre or see a film on a floor-to-ceiling screen at the AMC theater. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.4455, citywalkhollywood.com ★ UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOODCL0000022350 The world’s biggest motion picture/ TV studio features rides, shows and a behind-the-scenes studio tour. The VIP Experience gives you a private guided tour through a prop warehouse, working movie sets and soundstages, and allows you to skip lines for attractions. Entertain-
AHMANSON THEATRECL0000022282 The Ahmanson is at the theatrical forefront locally and nationally. It hosts engagements of Tony Awardwinning shows including Mary Poppins and Next to Normal, and world premieres such as Minsky’s. Highlights in 2012 include Green Day’s American Idiot and War Horse. 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772, centertheatregroup.org THE BROAD STAGEC Santa Monica College’s state-of-theart theater features several monthly shows of dance, theater, voice, chamber music or film productions. Visitors might see an improv troupe’s send-up of a Jane Austen classic or a performance by Joshua Bell. A 99seat theater, the Edye, features more experimental works. 1310 11th St., Santa Monica, 310.434.3200, thebroadstage.com DOROTHY CHANDLER PAVILION The largest venue at the Music Center downtown is the 3,100-seat home of Los Angeles Opera and Dance at the Music Center. L.A. Opera, directed by Plácido Domingo, offers a half-dozen major productions yearly. Dance at the Music Center hosts such companies as American Ballet Theatre. 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.0711, musiccenter.org
GEFFEN PLAYHOUSECL0000022285 Constructed in 1929, the building that houses the Geffen Playhouse, now in its 21st season, was one of Westwood’s first 12 structures. Not only do Sam Shepard and David Mamet launch plays here, but artistic director Randall Arney also has ties to superb American actors. 10886 Le Conte Ave., Westwood, 310.208.5454, geffenplayhouse.com GREEK THEATRECL0000022286 Built in 1929, the Greek Theatre is part of the 3,000-acre Griffith Park. The site of this 5,700-seat outdoor amphitheater was chosen after a soprano revealed the quality of the outdoor bowl’s acoustics. The April-through-October schedule has offered headliners such as Regina Spektor and Bonnie Raitt. 2700 N. Vermont Ave., L.A., 323.665.5857, greektheatrela.com HOLLYWOOD BOWLCL0000022287 The largest outdoor venue in the country, with 18,000 seats, offers music under the stars from spring through fall. A packed summer season features pop, jazz and rock groups, plus soloists and orchestras including the resident Los Angeles Philharmonic. Boxes in the orchestra seats have tables for picnicking. 2301 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.850.2000, hollywoodbowl.org KIRK DOUGLAS THEATRECL0000022288 The Culver City sibling of the Ahmanson Theatre and the Mark Taper Forum downtown fulfi lls the Center Theatre Group’s twin dreams for a Westside venue and a place to premiere adventurous works. The venue holds 317. 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 213.628.2772, centertheatregroup.org MARK TAPER FORUMCL0000022290 Since 1967, the Mark Taper Forum has been the socially conscious sibling on downtown’s Music Center campus. The Taper landed early productions of such landmarks as Zoot Suit and Angels in America.
EDWIN SANTIAGO
ment promenade Universal CityWalk is adjacent. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.3801, universalstudios.com
WHERE GUESTBOOK
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Plays this season include What the Butler Saw, Joe Turner's Come and Gone and Bruce Norris’ A Parallelogram. 135 N. GrandAve., downtown, 213.628.2772, centertheatregroup.org NOKIA THEATRE L.A. LIVECL9000006379 The 7,100-seat venue is a centerpiece of downtown’s emerging L.A. Live, a mammoth sports, dining and entertainment destination. On the schedule at the theater are music, dance and comedy acts, as well as awards and family shows. No seat is farther than 210 feet from the stage. 777 Chick Hearn Court, downtown, 213.763.6030, nokiatheatrelalive.com PANTAGES THEATRECL0000022291 The Pantages is the Southern California flagship for the Nederlander Organization and its local presenting arm. Long-run Broadway imports such as The Lion King and Wicked have enjoyed runs of up to two years here. Offerings this year include Catch Me If You Can and West Side Story. 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.468.1770, broadwayla.org UCLA LIVECL0000022293 UCLA Live offers one of the Southland’s most consistently rewarding arts programming. Its schedule includes music, dance and theater from an international who’s who of artists and readings by bestselling authors. Most events take place in Royce Hall, with some programming in Macgowan Little Theater, Freud Playhouse or Schoenberg Hall. 340 Royce Drive, Westwood, 310.825.4401, uclalive.org WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL The 2003 opening of the Frank Gehry–designed Walt Disney Concert Hall is one of the city’s most important performing arts events. The stunning $273 million facility is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Los Angeles Master Chorale and nearly a dozen music series. Tours are offered. 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 323.850.2000, laphil.com
VISUAL ARTS ACADEMY OF MOTION PICTURE ARTS AND SCIENCES “The academy” that those Oscar winners would like to thank is made up of some 6,000 motion-picture professionals and has been around for more than 85 years. Its seven-story headquarters houses galleries and small theaters that host fi lm-related exhibitions and screenings as well as lectures and seminars. 8949 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.247.3600, oscars.org GETTY CENTERCL0000022297 The magnificent hilltop art institution welcomes more than a million visitors a year. It houses stunning collections of paintings, drawings, antiquities, photographs and decorative arts, as well as a beautiful central garden designed by Richard Meier with city views. The Getty Center hosts talks and tours, performances and films, lectures and conferences. 1200 Getty Center Drive, L.A., 310.440.7300, getty.edu
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WhereLAGuestbook_SDZoo_2013.indd 1 GETTY VILLACL0000022298 The original site of the J. Paul Getty Museum, overlooking the Pacific es e stars hOM OvIIe MOv Ocean, is dedicated to the arts and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome and Etruria and houses 1,200 antiquities. Modeled after an ancient country home in Herculaneum, Italy, it offers reinterpretations of classical theater in its Villa Theater Lab. 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.440.7300, getty.edu The Original
HAMMER MUSEUMCL0000022299 The prestigious permanent collection of Impressionist, post-Impressionist and European old-master paintings is housed alongside critically acclaimed temporary exhibitions and contemporary Hammer Projects by emerging international artists. The Billy Wilder Theater is the venue for public programs and UCLA Film & Television Archive screenings. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Westwood, 310.443.7000, hammer.ucla.edu
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collection of sculpture from South and Southeast Asia. The museum’s garden was inspired by Monet’s Giverny. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.449.6840, nortonsimon.org paLEy CEnTER fOR MEdiaCL0000022305 Choose from tens of thousands of programs to view at this Richard Meier-designed venue. From TV: Johnny Cash performing “Ring of Fire” on The Johnny Cash Show, the first hour of MTV and the first moon landing. Screenings bring together well-known figures in film and television. 465 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.786.1000, paleycenter.org
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HUnTinGTOn LiBRaRy, aRT COLLECTiOnS, and BOTaniCaL GaRdEnSCL0000022300 More than a dozen gardens amid 120 acres of rolling lawns include the newly renovated Japanese Garden, Children’s Garden and century-old Rose Garden. Find Gainsborough’s The Blue Boy in the renovated gallery. Library treasures include the Ellesmere manuscript of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and a Gutenberg Bible. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, 626.405.2100, huntington.org LOS anGELES COUnTy MUSEUM Of aRTCL0000022301 The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is the West Coast’s most comprehensive museum, housing European masterpieces, an extensive collection of American art and a pavilion for Japanese art. An effort to expand the campus has resulted in the Broad Contemporary Art Museum and the Lynda and Stewart Resnick Pavilion. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A.,
323.857.6000; LACMA West, 6067 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6000. lacma.org MUSEUM Of COnTEMpORaRy aRT Committed to the collection, presentation and interpretation of work produced since 1940, MOCA holds some 5,000 objects in all visual media. The venue, designed by celebrated Japanese architect Arata Isozaki, is a gem combining pyramids, cubes and cylinders with uncommon materials. MOCA Grand Avenue, 250 S. Grand Ave., downtown; Geffen Contemporary, 152 N. Central Ave., downtown; MOCA Gallery at Pacific Design Center, 8687 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 213.626.6222. moca.org h nORTOn SiMOn MUSEUMCL0000022304 The Pasadena landmark houses a prestigious collection of European paintings, sculpture and works on paper, including masterpieces by Raphael, Vincent van Gogh and Pablo Picasso. Also on view is a celebrated
BaR MaRMOnTCL0000022356 Columbia Pictures founder Harry Cohn once said, “If you must get into trouble, do it at the Chateau Marmont.” The perpetual hot spot and dimly lit VIP playground is outfitted in richly colored wood, Chinese lanterns and signature butterflies on the ceiling. 8171 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.656.1010, chateaumarmont.com BLind BaRBER Behind a door simply marked "barber shop," hipsters get haircuts and old-fashioned towel shaves while sipping complimentary cocktails. Come 6 pm, those in the know proceed through a door hidden behind a towel closet and into a chic parlor where mixologists at a patinatedbrass bar serve handcrafted cocktails. 10797 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.841.6679, blindbarber.com THE BUnGaLOW This new venue envisioned by Brent Bolthouse was designed with a more relaxed vibe than the nightlife guru's previous Hollywood hot spots. The interior design is inspired by Baja California and seaside cottages, while its exterior offers expansive ocean views, lush gardens, patio and deck space and a game room. Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, 101 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.899.8530, thebungalowsm.com
COpa d’OROCL9000006382 A do-it-yourself drink menu is the star at Copa d’Oro, a sumptuous yet low-key hangout blocks from Santa Monica State Beach. Patrons can dream up their own artisanal cocktails, choosing tasty additions from a list of fresh juices and sodas and farmers-market-fresh produce. 217 Broadway, Santa Monica, 310.576.3030, copadoro.com La dESCaRGaCL9000007758 Sipping a daiquiri in this evocative rum bar, styled as if it were plucked from the streets of midcentury Havana and dropped onto the edge of Hollywood, couldn’t be more chic. A jazz band and dancer entertain the crowd; an open-air cigar lounge is hidden in back. 1159 Western Ave., Hollywood, 323.466.1324, ladescargala.com MOHaWK BEndCL0000333560 Located in the shell of an old movie theater, this massive bar and restaurant, perpetually packed to the brim with the Eastside’s trendiest, is serious about beer. More than 70 taps are loaded with microbrews, most of them California-brewed. A thoughtful food menu includes vegan and vegetarian options. 2141 W. Sunset Blvd., Echo Park, 213.483.2337, mohawk.la OnE-EyEd GypSyCL0000333561 Patrons are transported to the 1930s when they step into this sumptuous downtown cocktail bar. Vintage carnival games fill the space, dispensing tickets redeemable for food and drinks, such as the Surly Sailor or Riddler’s Punch, at the bar. 901 E. 1st St., downtown, 626.340.3529, one-eyedgypsy.com pERCHCL0000333562 Atop downtown’s soaring Pershing Square Building sits aptly named Perch, a glass-ensconced rooftop lounge with uninterrupted views of the city. The trilevel restaurant and bar offers French cuisine plus live entertainment, including DJs and bur-
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lesque and cabaret acts, on various nights. 448 S. Hill St., downtown, 213.802.1770, perchla.com THE ROGER ROOM With its stained-glass windows, cozy booths and retro wall murals, this cocktail bar looks like the kind of place where flappers would have gotten a little wild back in the day. Cocktail lovers come for the drinks, concocted by preeminent L.A. mixologist Damian Windsor. 370 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.854.1300 SKyBaRCL0000022363 This beautiful, open-air bar at the Mondrian hotel remains as chic today as when it opened. The bougainvillea-covered exterior hovers over the pool. Inside it’s all white and wood with panoramas of the city. Evening reservations are required. 8440 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.848.6025, mondrianhotel.com THE STandaRdCL0000022364 At the center of the Sunset Strip is a playground that includes waterbeds by the pool, a fireplace, a dance floor and endless surfaces for lounging. Every clear night promises a crowd; the summer daytime scene is so L.A. 550 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.892.8080; 8300 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.650.9090. standardhotel.com £10 If the Hollywood club scene leaves you longing for a night more civilized, then ring £10 (that's "10 pound") at the Montage Beverly Hills. The reservation-only spot serves Macallan whiskeys and whiskey cocktails presented in Lalique crystal glasses. 225 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.860.5808, montagebeverlyhills.com/beverlyhills-bar.php TROPiCana BaRCL0000022366 The poolside bar at the gorgeous Roosevelt Hotel was dubbed the Studio 54 of Los Angeles. After taking flak for being too exclusive, A-plus is now Alist, with a still-swanky clientele. The
pool area harkens to Miami Beach, palm-frond glamour. 7000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 800.950.7667, hollywoodroosevelt.com THE TROUBadOURCL9000006384 The legendary rock club that once saw a pre-electric Bob Dylan circa 1964 and Elton John making his stateside debut is now host to alternative bands such as Built to Spill— although it’s also a favorite stop for rockers such as Tom Petty, who come to preview new material. 9081 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.276.1158, troubadour.com THE VaRniSHCL9000006385 Inconspicuously tucked behind Cole’s diner and steeped in an intimate, retro vibe, the Varnish is a tiny, speak-easystyle bar that prides itself on its purist approach to classic cocktails. Its Prohibition-era and pre-Prohibition-era drinks are painstakingly crafted. 118 E. 6th St., downtown, 213.622.9999, thevarnishbar.com
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ome to the Aquarium of the Pacific where you and your family can get in touch with nature and marine life, any time you want. Touch sharks. Feed lorikeet birds. Watch penguins play. Over 11,000 animals await you.
aquariumofpacific.org 562 . 590 . 3100 100 AQUARIUM WAY, LONG BEACH, CA 90802
WHiSKy a GO GOCL0000022367 Channel the soul of rock at this Sunset Strip music club and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer. It continues to welcome local and touring bands mostly playing hard rock and metal. Headbanging and hard liquor are musts at this landmark. 8901 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.652.4202, whiskyagogo.com WURSTKÜCHECL9000007757 Just forget about trying to pronounce the name, but do pop into these convivial neighborhood bars for an exotic sausage, microbrew and thick-cut Belgian fries. It’s raucous fun of sitting elbow-to-elbow with patrons at packed communal tables. 625 Lincoln Blvd., Venice; 800 E. 3rd St., downtown, 213.687.4444. wurstkucherestaurant.com
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PARTING SHOT
Out of the Blue. PHOTO By SARAH HAdley
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