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THE O R I G I NAL CON V ERT IBLE The year-round beautiful weather in Los Angeles creates the irresistible urge to cruise along the coast with the top down. Even the charioteers on display at the Getty Villa can’t resist the feeling of the wind through their hair. Come visit them and the more than 1,200 antiquities on display. The Getty Villa. One mile north of Sunset on PCH. Reserve your free ticket today. Admission is free. An advance timed-entry ticket is required.
Prize Vessel with Athena, Greek (Attic), 490–480 B.C. Terracotta. The J. Paul Getty Museum. Text and Design © 2016 J. Paul Getty Trust
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08.16
CONTENTS
THE FAMILY ISSUE
departments
the guide
10 Editor’s Note
64 DINING Restaurants by cuisine and neighborhood
Family time.
12 Hot Dates August is on fire, with Adele at Staples Center, fairs and fests across the county and fireworks and music filling the air.
81 ENTERTAINMENT Special events, performing arts and sports 81 ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS Theme parks, activities, studio tours, exhibitions and more
96 30 Things We Love Summer’s sunny days and sultry nights call for cool cocktails, breezy fashions and hot dishes.
85 SHOPPING The county’s major retail destinations
where now 14 Dining
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86 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, getting around and getting to know Los Angeles
Kids rule in Athleta Girl
16 Entertainment
CITY TOURS
Have dog, will travel: Top L.A. spots for dining, shopping and playing with your pooch.
18 Q+A He’s a globally beloved pop artist and soon-to-be Broadway star, but L.A. native Josh Groban is a hometown boy at heart. As he geared up for his Aug. 26-27 shows at the Greek Theatre, the crooner gave us a tour of his favorite L.A. stamping grounds.
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Carmela’s sorbets
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20 Fun by the Dozen ON THE COVER Instagram star Sebastian models a Max-Bone hoodie. Photo courtesy Max-Bone. See p. 16.
To Topanga Canyon
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Who says you can’t make everyone happy? We’ve rounded up awesome activities—including dining in a woodland and soaring atop a hippogriff—that are fun for the whole family. BY SUZANNE ENNIS
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26 Step Outside Get a taste of L.A.’s top cuisine and indoor-outdoor lifestyle on these popular restaurant patios. BY REBECCA PARDESS
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FROM TOP: COURTESY ATHLETA GIRL; COURTESY CARMELA
We all scream for ice cream— especially when it’s artisanally made from fresh ingredients. Get your scoop at one of these popular local parlors.
86 BEACHES Sandy stops along L.A.’s coastline
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SHOP DINE REL A X … M AKE MEMORIES
NORDSTROM • BARNEYS NEW YORK • AMERICAN GIRL PL ACE • TOPSHOP TOPMAN • SHINOL A E L I Z A B E T H A N D J A M E S • A P P L E • J .C R E W • J .C R E W M E N S S H O P • A N T H R O P O L O G I E V I N C E • S P L E N D I D • AT H L E TA • M · A · C C O S M E T I C S • H O N E S T B E A U T Y • S E P H O R A • C O A C H B A R N E S & N O B L E • N I K E T H E G R O V E • M A D E W E L L • U G G ® A U S T R A L I A • PA I G E • M I C H A E L KO R S 8 I N D O O R / O U T D O O R R E S TA U R A N T S • T M Z T O U R T I C K E T S A N D D E PA R T U R E S T O P
A D J A C E N T T O H I S T O R I C FA R M E R S M A R K E T 1 8 9 T H E G R O V E D R I V E • L O S A N G E L E S • 32 3 -90 0 -80 80 • T H E G R O V E L A .C O M
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FAMILY TIME
I used to think my traveling days would be over when I became a parent, but, boy, was I wrong. By the time both my kids were toddlers, my husband and I had taken them sailing in New Zealand, hiking in Australia and museum-hopping along the East and West coasts of the U.S. Those toddlers are now 9 and 11, and we’ve added
I needn’t go far to satisfy my wanderlust —my own backyard has as many nooks and crannies to explore as any place we’ve visited, if not more.
DANIEL ENNIS
The only upscale boutique in greater Los Angeles for women size 12 and up. From comfortable to casual or dressy— classic to funky or fun: Abundance has it all!
whale-watching in Mexico, horseback riding in Utah and camping in the Sierra to that list. But while I love our far-flung adventures (and am relieved that parenthood hasn’t pinned me down), it turns out that I needn’t go far to satisfy my wanderlust—my own backyard has as many nooks and crannies to explore as any place we’ve visited, if not more. Which is to say, you picked the right destination for your family vacation. On pp. 20-25, you’ll find dozens of activities that, as my kids and I will attest, will entertain kids and grown-ups equally. (Are you ever too old to go to a ball game or feel the sand beneath your toes? Heck no!) Speaking of things that you’re never too old to enjoy, ice cream is the subject of the story on pp. 14-15—in L.A., you’re always a stone’s throw from a great parlor. And since four-legged family members increasingly travel with their humans, there’s a roundup of dog-friendly spots on p. 16, too. As I write this, my bags are already packed for a two-week vacation to Hawaii with 15 family members ranging in age from 8 to 73. Upon arrival, my first order of business will be to find an issue of Where Maui. But I know that whatever we end up doing there—and whatever you end up doing here—the most important thing is to relish doing it together. That, after all, is the essence of a truly magical family vacation. —SUZANNE ENNIS
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WHERE CALENDAR AUGUST 2016 Search the full calendar at SoCalPulse.com
Top Stops
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN ARTS AND CULTURE
AUG. 1 LOOK UNDER THE BED LACMA exhibits objects and oddities (like the notebook page below) from filmmaker Guillermo del Toro’s collections. p. 84
HOT DATES
AUG. 5-6, 12-13 LIGHT UP THE NIGHT The Tchaikovsky Spectacular and An Olympic Carnival dazzle the Hollywood Bowl with music and fireworks. p. 81
AUG. 5-6, 9-10, 12-13 HELLO, IT’S ADELE Record-breaking, 10-time Grammy Award-winning, foot-stomping British songstress Adele is back on the road after a five-year touring hiatus and set to perform six nights at Staples Center, downtown. Her return to the concert stage follows the release of her hit album 25—a tour de force that’s sold more than 15 million copies and cemented Adele’s status as one of the world’s most popular recording artists. The shows sold out within minutes, but rumor has it that tickets are still available on the resale market. p. 81
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FAIRS, FESTS AND MORE FUN EVENTS
1 INTERNATIONAL SURF FESTIVAL > AUG. 4-7 Cheer on or join in when the 55th International Surf Festival hosts sand-and-sea events in the South Bay. p. 81
HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Go to SoCalPulse.com for the Weekend Roundup, where you can get the lowdown on the coolest festivals, performingarts events, dining promotions and more.
4 NISEI WEEK JAPANESE FESTIVAL > AUG. 13-21 The 76th Nisei Week festival celebrates Japanese-American culture with food, music, a parade (Aug. 14) and more in Little Tokyo, downtown. 213.687.7193, niseiweek.org 5 TASTE OF BREWS > AUG. 20 Enjoy local microbrews (pictured left), hard ciders and food trucks at Long Beach’s Lighthouse Park. p. 81
2 TWILIGHT CONCERT SERIES > AUG. 4, 11, 18, 25 Thanks to stellar musical lineups and a stunning seaside setting, this free, all-ages concert series at the Santa Monica Pier is a summertime hit. p. 81
6 L.A. FOOD & WINE > AUG. 25-28 This epicurean event, based downtown, features sips and fare from world-class culinary talent, plus cooking demonstrations, music and more. p. 81
3 SUNDANCE NEXT FEST > AUG. 12-14 Celebrate the renegade spirit at screenings of six indie-film premieres, teamed with live music, conversations with filmmakers and more, at downtown’s the Theatre at Ace Hotel. p. 81
7 FYF FEST > AUG. 27-28 More than 50 indie-rock bands, ranging from up-and-comers to big-name headliners (Kendrick Lamar, LCD Soundsystem) perform at this popular fest held in Exposition Park. p. 81
AUG. 8, 15-17 ON THE MOVE Dance animates the Music Center’s nooks in Moves After Dark. musiccenter.org AUG. 9-10 HOLD ON Alabama Shakes rocks the Greek Theatre. p. 81 AUG. 18-19 SWEET SOUNDS Reunited Guns N’ Roses has a ball playing Dodger Stadium. p. 81 AUG. 20 POP AND ART The Broad’s late-night Nonobject(ive): Summer Happenings event mixes pop music, footwork and yoga. p. 82
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: SIMON EMMETT; GUILLERMO DEL TORO, PAGE FROM NOTEBOOK 2, PHOTO COURTESY INSIGHT EDITIONS; COURTESY TASTE OF BREWS
AUG. 2 BAB’S BACK The legendary Barbra Streisand launches a nine-city concert tour at Staples Center. p. 81
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THE BEST IN DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT
DINING
Sweet Scoop Shops Summer’s getting hotter, but L.A.’s getting cooler, with new ice-cream shops joining perennial favorites on what seems like a daily basis. Here are 10 parlors packing ‘em in and scooping it up across the Southland. —Heather Platt
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Salt & Straw’s caramel corn-on-the-cob ice cream
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Spoonfuls of McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream
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Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream, a hit at downtown L.A.’s One Santa Fe, is now open at Culver City’s hip new Platform lifestyle center. >300 S. Santa Fe Ave., Ste. R, downtown, 213.625.0705; 8820 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 424.341.0850, vanleeuwenicecream.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY MCCONNELL’S FINE ICE CREAM; TONI GAULTHIER; SIDNEY BEN-SIMON; COURTESY CARMELA. OPPOSITE: COURTESY SALT & STRAW
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Following its L.A. debut at Grand Central Market, McConnell’s is scooping up its “fine” ice cream in Studio City. >317 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.346.9722; 12073 Ventura Place, Studio City, 818.308.7789, mcconnells.com
3
Smitten, the ice cream made to order using liquid nitrogen, is now satisfying South Bay sweet tooths at the Point. >850 S. Sepulveda Blvd., El Segundo, 424.220.7100, smittenicecream.com
4
Portland-original Salt & Straw is set to open its fourth L.A. location this month, in downtown L.A.’s Arts District. >240 N. Larchmont Blvd., L.A., 323.466.0485; 1357 Abbot Kinney
Blvd., Venice, 310.310.8429; 12180½ Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.358.2890; 829 E. 3rd St., downtown, saltandstraw.com
5
Homegrown Magpies Softserve scratch-recipe dessert shop is proof that Silver Lake can never have too many ice-cream parlors. >2660 Griffith Park Blvd., L.A., 323.486.7094, magpiessoftserve.com
6
Farmers-market favorite Carmela has brick-andmortars in Pasadena and near the Grove. Now a Woodland Hills shop is sweetening up the Valley. >2495 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena,
Scoops at Smitten
626.797.1405; 7920 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.944.0232; 5301 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills, 818.914.5401, carmelaicecream.com
7
Find out why everyone is talking about Afters Ice Cream’s Milky Buns at one of several SoCal spots, including one in Long Beach and a new Pasadena outpost. >5708 E. 7th St., Long Beach; 1265 E. Green St., Pasadena, aftersicecream.com
8
N. Heliotrope Drive, L.A.; 5105 York Blvd., Highland Park; 727 N. Broadway, Ste. 125, downtown, 323.739.8675; Scoops Westside, 3400 Overland Ave., L.A., scoopswestside.com
10
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams planted its first West Coast scoop shop conveniently near the L.A. Zoo, Griffith Observatory and the Greek Theatre. >1954 Hillhurst Ave., Los Feliz, 323.928.2668, jenis.com
With five L.A. locations, Sweet Rose Creamery tempts taste buds across the Southland. >Brentwood Mart, 225 26th St., Ste. 51, Santa Monica; 970 Monument St., Ste. 103, Pacific Palisades; 4377 Tujunga Ave., Studio City; 7565 Beverly Blvd., L.A.; 826 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.260.2663, sweetrosecreamery.com
Waffle cones at Carmela
9
Find new dairy and vegan flavors every day at cultfavorite Scoops Ice Cream. >712
A Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream sundae
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ENTERTAINMENT
Dogtown FROM DINING OUTDOORS TO HITTING THE BEACH, THERE ARE PLENTY OF WAYS TO HAVE FUN WITH YOUR DOG IN L.A.
Make no bones about it: L.A. loves its four-legged friends. Many restaurants here even allow dogs to dine, provided they sit in an outdoor dining area with a separate entrance. Beer Belly in Koreatown (532 S. Western Ave., L.A., 213.387.2337, beerbellyla.com) offers a rotating craft-beer list, lauded chicken wings and a dog-friendly patio. In Glendale, Golden Road Brewing (5410 W. San Fernando Road, L.A., 844.452.2337, goldenroad.la), home of local-favorite brew Wolf Pup Session IPA, has a “doggy deck” with water bowls and treats on hand. The Morrison in Atwater Village (3179 Los Feliz Blvd., L.A., 323.667.1839, themorrisonla.com) offers a “doggy menu” in addition to an extensive craft-beer list and some of the best burgers in L.A. Its large patio makes it perfect for a lunch stop with your pup (on your way to Griffith
Park, perhaps). At Eveleigh in West Hollywood (8752 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 424.239.1630, theeveleigh.com), you can enjoy a farm-to-table meal while sitting with your dog on a charming patio. With a name like Blue Dog Beer Tavern (4524 Saugus Ave., Sherman Oaks, 818.990.2583, bluedogbeertavern.com), a restaurant had better be dogfriendly—and this Sherman Oaks gem fits the bill. The Valley gets hot in summertime, but Blue Dog stocks an excellent beer selection to help you fight the heat, plus water for your thirsty buddy.
TRAILS AND TAILS Active dogs and their outdoororiented owners have plenty of room to run in L.A. The Wisdom Tree, which stands high on a ridge in Griffith Park, west of the Hollywood sign, is a rewarding destination. Grab a leash, park on Lake Hollywood Drive and make your way to
the trailhead on Wonder View Drive to embark on a challenging 3-mile out-and-back hike. People tend to hang out at the top, playing with their dogs and flipping through the handwritten notes that people leave in the ammo box that sits beneath the tree. Also in the park is the off-leash Griffith Park Dog Park (323.913.4688, laparks.org)—a shady, 1.6-acre spot on North Zoo Drive, adjacent to the 134 and 5 freeways, that also has a smaller area for timid dogs. Is your pet more of a beach bunny than a trail hound? Dogs aren’t allowed on L.A. County beaches, but a few state parks, including Point Mugu (9000 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.457.8143, parks.ca.gov), allow leashed dogs to play. In the county’s southernmost reaches, you’ll find Rosie’s Dog Beach (5000 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, 562.570.4897, longbeach.gov), the only beach in the county that welcomes dogs off leash.
DOGGY TREATS To primp and pamper your pooch, head to celebrity-favored Max-Bone (3828 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 424.302.0606; 624 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.302.0606, max-bone.com), which makes stylish, upscale dog clothing and accessories such as collars, beds and hoodies (pictured above; see p. 38). In Hollywood, check out Tailwaggers & Tailwashers (1929 N. Bronson Ave., L.A., 323.464.9600, tailwaggerspets.com) for highquality treats and eco-friendly accessories, as well as grooming services. The Dog Bakery (multiple locations; visit thedogbakery.com) should also be on your list: Between its custom cakes, all-natural treats and full-service bakery, this spot’s selection is virtually unrivaled. Humans have even been known to wander in, attracted by the aroma of the bakery’s drool-worthy dog treats. —Wilder Shaw
COURTESY MAX-BONE
CHOW TIME
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Q+A
SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY Golden-voiced Josh Groban was born and bred in L.A., but his earliest brushes with Hollywood were serendipitous. He sang his first solo in seventh grade, with classmate Jason Schwarzman on drums, and was just 17 when he stood in for Andrea Bocelli to sing a duet with Celine Dion. Twenty-five million albums later, it seems that the endearingly funny Hancock Park native can do no wrong. Even before the current concert tour for his latest album of musical-theater classics, Stages, Groban had already headlined in many of the world’s best venues, and his Broadway dreams will finally come true in October when he stars in The Great Comet at Time Square’s Imperial Theater. But first, he’ll perform two homecoming shows at L.A.’s Greek Theatre Aug. 26 and 27. Calling all Grobanites! —Vicki Arkoff
You and Broadway are a perfect pair. It’s surprising that you haven’t starred in a musical since Fiddler on the Roof in high school. I fell in love with the show so it was worth the wait. In college, I made a risky decision to shelve my theater life to make records. I was at Carnegie Mellon University studying musical theater in one of the most talented classes ever with Josh Gad (Book of Mormon), Jonathan Groff (Hamilton), and Leslie Odom Jr. (Hamilton). Everybody in my class has gone on to do great things. Just months into the first semester I got this opportunity to make records, which turned out to be a good decision, but I always knew I would someday take on a Broadway role that really allowed me to do something unexpected. You’re a native Angeleno. Did you discover musical theater at L.A.’s Music Center? I did. I was very lucky. The Music Center is the place that really started my musical inspiration. My dad was a trumpet player in college and has loved music his whole life. My mom was an art teacher, and she has always loved art and culture. And if we were lucky, we would get a chance to jump downtown to the Music Center, to see stuff at the Mark Taper or, mostly, at the Ahmanson, because that’s where most of the musicals were. I remember seeing Cats there. What do you miss most about L.A. when you’re on tour? To me, L.A. always represents family and home. The first thing
THE DETAILS The Music Center 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, musiccenter.org / Augustine Wine Bar 13456 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818.990.0938, augustinewinebar.com / Beverly Hills Tennis at La Cienega Tennis Center 325 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.285.6825, beverlyhillstennis.com / Greek Theatre (p. 81) / Hollywood Bowl (p. 81) / Nate ‘n Al Beverly Hills 414 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.274.0101, natenal.com / The Original El Cholo 1121 S. Western Ave., L.A., 323.734.2773, elcholo.com / The Original Farmers Market (p. 82)
I do when I get back is go to my parents’ house. Then, for brunch on the weekend, I’ve got to go to Nate ’n Al’s deli to get my omelet from a cranky waitress who’s been there for ever and ever. And for good Mexican food I’ll go to El Cholo, which has been my birthday spot since I was a kid. Which of those old haunts are still sentimental favorites? A place that represents my childhood is Farmers Market. The old-school Farmers Market, before the Grove was built. I remember going to the old ice-cream parlor Gill’s with my parents and grandparents to get frozen bananas. We’d also go to Du-par’s and Kip’s Toyland which have been around since the 1930s. Where do you indulge your off-the-clock passions? I do love wine and tennis. Not at the same time, though. That usually doesn’t work out so well. There are lots of amazing courts throughout the city, including the Beverly Hills Tennis courts, which are public. For wine, there’s a wonderful wine bar in Sherman Oaks called Augustine. That’s my wine place. Tremendous. Your Stages tour concludes this month at the Greek. Which other L.A. stages are important to you? The Hollywood Bowl is one of the great wonders of L.A. Every time I set foot on that stage as a performer, it’s the most full-circle moment for me. When I was young, my family used to sit in the nosebleed seats to see the L.A. Phil, but I also remember seeing Elton John there when I was 13. In high school, I saw Björk there, and today that’s still one of my top five concerts I’ve ever been to. Hearing “Hyperballad” live with fireworks overhead is a pretty great thing.
BRIAN BOWEN SMITH
WHERE NOW / los
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explore the ocean Fantastical animals await at L.A.’s aquariums. The new Horses and Dragons exhibition (pictured here) is a highlight of the nonprofit Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach (p. 81), which boasts 11,000 ocean animals and opportunities for encounters with sharks, penguins and more. The smaller Cabrillo Marine Aquarium (3720 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro, 310.548.7562, cabrillomarineaquarium. org), Roundhouse Aquarium (Manhattan Beach Pier, 310.379.8117, roundhouseaquarium.org) and Santa Monica Pier Aquarium (1600 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, 310.393.6149, healthebay.org) let kids get up close to sea creatures found in the waters right outside the aquariums’ doors.
Fun by the Dozen Family vacations are a treat—the only trick is finding activities that delight the whole gang. So, we’ve polled the kids, enlisted the grandparents and embarked on countywide fact-finding missions with your happiness in mind. Herewith: 12 all-ages ways to make your stay in L.A. awesome. By SUZAN N E EN N IS
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: TIMOTHY NORRIS; JUAN OCAMPO/L.A. DODGERS; COURTESY FORD THEATRES. OPPOSITE: COURTESY AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC
build an ark A flood is coming! Climb aboard Noah’s Ark (left) at the Skirball Cultural Center (2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A., 310.440.4500, skirball.org; advance tickets recommended). This wildly creative, immersive exhibition encourages children and their families to explore crawlspaces and catwalks, load whimsical animals two-by-two up a loading ramp and play make-believe while making friends with kids of all backgrounds and ages. Storytelling, art projects, hands-on history lessons and musical performances round out the excellent family programs offered throughout the center.
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GO WITH a SHOW Saturday mornings at the revitalized Ford Amphitheatre in Hollywood (2580 Cahuenga Blvd. E., L.A., 323.461.3673, fordtheatres.org) the Big World Fun series—aimed at kids ages 4-12 and their families—presents hour-long music and dance performances by diverse bands, including Cambalache (pictured below), which plays Aug. 6.
The show starts at 10 a.m., but arrive early to enjoy crafts and nature activities. Aug. 1-5, on the Hollywood Bowl Museum’s patio (p. 81), the SummerSounds series combines concerts with art workshops designed for kids ages 3-11. For this final week of the series, you’ll dance to mariachi music with a contemporary pop twist. If film, food trucks and rock are more
your family’s speed, you’ll love the August lineup at traveling outdoor movie series Eat, See, Hear (eatseehear.com): Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory Aug. 6 at Pasadena City Hall; Big Aug. 13 at the Autry Museum; The Goonies Aug. 20 at La Cienega Park in Beverly Hills and Spaceballs Aug. 27 at Santa Monica High School. Bonus: Shows are dog-friendly, too!
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catch a game Visiting Dodger Stadium (above) should be on the bucket lists of fans of all ages and allegiances. Attend a game (p. 81)—try a famous Dodger Dog—and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, which has hosted eight World Series (p. 88). Of course, baseball’s not the only game in town. StubHub Center (18400 Avalon Blvd., Carson, 310.630.2020, stubhubcenter.com), home of the L.A. Galaxy, hosts soccer games on Aug. 6, 7 and 13. What’s more, on Aug. 14 the center celebrates the return of the Rams to L.A. by hosting the “ultimate flag-football showdown”: the Rams Legends Game, when former Rams players compete against a team of NFL All Stars.
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splish and splash What could be more SoCal than a day at the beach? Manhattan Beach and Santa Monica State Beach (p. 86) are favorites, with sandy expanses and ample amenities nearby. Mother’s Beach (4101 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, beaches.lacounty.gov), which has not a wave in sight, is tops for tots. (Note: Beach wheelchairs are available at many local beaches: Visit coastal.ca.gov/access/
beach-wheelchairs.html for a full list and contact information.) Another top spot is the public Annenberg Community Beach House (415 Pacific Coast Hwy., Santa Monica, 310.458.4904, annenbergbeachhouse. com) which has a playground, splash pad, beach courts and fields, beach access, parking and a beautiful tiled pool (pictured above), a relic of the property’s historic Marion Davies Estate.
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seek thrills On the Santa Monica Pier, petite Pacific Park (p. 82) packs in plenty of thrills (like Inkie’s Wave Jumper, above), and an $8 spin on the solar-powered Pacific Wheel offers priceless views. Take a twirl, too, on the carousel inside the pier’s Looff Hippodrome, which celebrated its centennial earlier this summer. Across town, Universal Studios Hollywood (p. 82) pairs movie magic with rides. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, with its Hogwarts Castle, shop-lined streets of Hogsmeade and two rides, is a smash hit. On a hot summer day, you’ll be thankful for a frozen
Butterbeer. For wet-all-day fun, head 30 miles east of downtown to the 50-acre Raging Waters water park in San Dimas (111 Raging Waters Drive, San Dimas, 909.802.2200, ragingwaters.com), or go wild at the smaller, junglethemed Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, 35 miles north of downtown (26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Valencia, 661.255.4100, sixflags.com). Conveniently, Six Flags Magic Mountain (p. 82) is right next door. And just south of L.A. County are several of SoCal’s biggest themepark draws: Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, Legoland and Knotts Berry Farm (p. 82).
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travel back in time Mastodons, saber-toothed cats and other ice-age animals once roamed L.A. Don’t believe it? Visit La Brea Tar Pits and Museum (p. 84), where the animals’ fossils are extracted from tar pits, then studied by paleontologists, right before your eyes. Budding paleontologists and zoologists will also dig Dinosaurs: Unextinct at the L.A. Zoo (p. 82), where animatronic dinosaurs, a Stegosaurus robot with controls that guests can operate, and more await (Edmontonia is pictured below). At the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (p. 84), visit the Dinosaur Hall and new Pterosaurs exhibition, which showcases fossils and life-size models of the extinct flying reptiles. You can even pilot your own pterosaur in the Virtual Flight Lab.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY AU FUDGE; SARAH PRIKRYL; BILLINGS PRODUCTIONS; COURTESY THE LANGHAM HUNTINGTON; COURTESY PACIFIC PARK
Stylish, kid-friendly dining isn’t an oxymoron. Jessica Biel’s “baby,” Au Fudge (9010 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 424.204.9228, aufudge.com), boasts seasonally driven, approachable fare (like the burger pictured above) and an au pairstaffed creative space. Downtown, Clifton’s Cafeteria (p. 64), L.A.'s oldest-surviving cafeteriastyle eatery, delights all comers with its whimsical, woodlandthemed decor. The Original Farmers Market (p. 82) pleases crowds with restaurants offering everything from French crêpes to sushi. And who could pass up the sweet chocolate fountain (pictured below), offered Sundays at the Langham Huntington Pasadena’s chocolate afternoon tea? (1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena, 626.585.6218, langhamhotels.com)
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SHOPS DINING NIGHTLIFE ENTERTAINMENT Hollywood & Highland features the Dolby Theatre, home of the Academy Awards®, conveniently located on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. With world-class shopping, dining, and red carpet movie premieres, it’s the ultimate Hollywood experience.
Photo, Shawn Farrington
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Find Fame Don’t just see a star —be a star with a (not-just-for-kids) Red Carpet Kids package at the Peninsula Beverly Hills (9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.975.2893, peninsula.com/beverlyhills; advance booking required). From filming a live-action movie (left) to attending an awards show—with paparazzi, red carpets, a wrap party, swag bags and lots more in between—the ultimate Hollywood experience awaits you and your crew.
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get artsy Interactive experiences make art approachable for all at L.A.’s biggest museums. At the Getty Center (p. 84), on Aug. 4-6 and 12-13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., create a collage inspired by the museum’s artworks in Art Lab: Creature Camouflage (pictured above). Every day except Monday, the Family Room is open for drop-in, hands-on activities (weekends, catch a kids concert, 4 p.m., both days in the central garden). The coastal Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades (p. 84) also has a drop-in creative space, Family Forum, open daily except Tuesday. Additional activi-
ties include Art Odyssey for Families (Aug. 13 and 27) and Family Drawing Hour: Monsters and Superheroes (Aug. 6 and 20), which combine gallery tours with projects inspired by the villa’s Greek and Roman antiquities. East Asian brush painting in the Boone Children’s Gallery is a highlight of every trip to LACMA (p. 84)—it’s unclear whether kids or adults get into it more. Plus, every Sunday at 12:30 p.m., the Andell Family Sunday series presents artist-led workshops, gallery tours and activities. This month, make your own version of an ancient Roman vase using printmaking or clay.
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take a ride Love planes, trains and automobiles? Make a pit stop at the Petersen Automotive Museum (p. 85), which houses a world-class collection and the Cars Mechanical Institute, inspired by the animated film. Future conductors will love the miniaturetrain rides and exhibitions about L.A.’s locomotive history at Travel Town in Griffith Park (5200 Zoo Drive, L.A., 323.662.5874, traveltown.org). Aviation history is the subject of the Museum of Flying (3100 Airport Ave., Santa Monica, 310.398.2500, museumofflying.org)—you can see aircraft ranging from a Wright Flyer replica to a modern jet—and the space shuttle Endeavour is on display at the California Science Center (p. 84).
Even during a drought, nature reigns in L.A.’s botanical gardens. At the Helen and Peter Bing Children’s Garden at the Huntington (p. 84) in San Marino, kids can travel through a light-filled prism tunnel (above), splash in water, dance in misty rainbows, compose music using pebbles and sand, smell fragrant flowers and more while their parents look on from shady benches. Ten miles north, at Descanso Gardens (p. 82), families can ride a mini “enchanted train” through a section of garden, enjoy a tranquil moment by a koi-filled stream and find their way through a small children’s maze.
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HOLLYWOOD BOWL WHERE SUMMER PLAYS
COURTESY QUINNIE & B. OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS; COURTESY DESCANSO GARDENS; COURTESY PETERSEN AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM; COURTESY J. PAUL GETTY MUSEUM
WHERE SUMMER PLAYS
Los Angeles Philharmonic Gustavo Dudamel, conductor Dancers from American Ballet Theatre USC Trojan Marching Band
+ 12 top kid shops L.A. isn’t just full of things to do with kids, it’s also stocked with shops that cater to them. The Grove (p. 85) has SoCal’s only American Girl Place (323.602.5900, americangirl.com), a doll-lover’s dream. At adjacent Original Farmers Market (p. 82), find Dylan’s Candy Bar (323.930.1600, dylanscandybar.com), Sticker Planet (323.939.6933, stickerplanetla.com) and one of L.A.’s best toy stores, Kip’s Toyland (323.939.8334, kipstoyland.com). In the South Bay, the Point (850 S. Sepulveda Blvd., El Segundo, thepointsb.com) features cute Bella Beach Kids (310.529.3590, bellabeachkids.com); a Lucky Brand flagship (310.322.2409, luckybrand.com) with a large kids section; and one of sportswear brand Athleta’s first brick-and-mortars to carry its Athleta Girl line (310.321.0197, athleta.com). Nearby, Gumtree Kids (323 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.376.5107, gumtreela.com) is a junior version of the beach-chic gift shop Gumtree, just down the avenue. Hip Abbot Kinney is booming, but longtime tenants like Burro and, a few doors down, offspring Baby Burro (1405 Abbot Kinney Blvd., L.A., 310.450.6283, burrogoods.com) keep the indie spirit alive. Other well-curated charmers include Quinnie & B (1632 Ocean Park Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.398.8814, quinnieb.com; pictured above), tucked in a sleepy section of Santa Monica, and Eggy on trendy West 3rd (8365 W. 3rd St., 323.658.8882, shopeggy.com). To satisfy Champagne tastes, Melrose Place is still the place, boasting the first U.S. boutique of French kids’ brand Bonbon (8473 Melrose Place, L.A., 323.746.5151, bonbon-paris.com).
AUG 5-6
AN OLYMPIC CARNIVAL
FIREWORKS
WITH DANCERS!
AUG 12-13
Herb Alpert and Lani Hall, special guests Dianne Reeves and Romero Lubambo, special guests Viver Brasil · Angel Blue, soprano Hollywood Bowl Orchestra · Thomas Wilkins, conductor Hubert’s Lemonade (8/13) is a proud sponsor of the Hollywood Bowl.
Los Angeles Philharmonic Bramwell Tovey, conductor
AUG 26–27 Hubert’s Lemonade (8/26) and Acura (8/27) are proud sponsors of the Hollywood Bowl.
SHAKESPEARE AT THE BOWL
Featuring actors from Shakespeare’s Globe Los Angeles Philharmonic · Bramwell Tovey, conductor Iqbal Khan, director · Bill Barclay, adaptation Revel in classic scenes acted out, and hear music inspired by the timeless plays.
AUG 30 & SEP 1
Get Your Tickets Today! HollywoodBowl.com | 323.850.2000 800.745.3000
Groups (10+) 323.850.2050
Parking, shuttle & venue policies at HollywoodBowl.com/GettingThere
Programs, artists, prices and dates subject to change
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A visit to Los Angeles is best spent enjoying the cool breeze and warm sunshine that nurture the county year-round. This doesn’t necessarily mean taking up paddleboarding in Marina del Rey or hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains (though we highly recommend those activities, too); one simple way to appreciate our favorable climate is to enjoy a meal outdoors. And given the ever-flourishing local food scene, many of its best dining experiences can—and should—be had alfresco on one of L.A.’s premier patios. by REBECCA PARDESS 26 SOCALPULSE.COM
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Step Outside
entrées from land and sea, and sandwiches. DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES HAS BEEN After your meal, take in the lights on in a steady upswing over the last decade, the famed Sunset Strip, or have a laugh at most recently with the opening of the highly the Comedy Store across the street. lauded Broad museum and its neighboring Heading deeper into West Hollywood is New American restaurant, Otium. With a perhaps the most “L.A.” restaurant of all: ground-level terrace that looks out onto a Gracias Madre. Serving plant-based (othgrove of 100-year-old olive trees, Otium is erwise known as vegan) Mexican food, this in a prime position to let you take in the unconventional concept pleases herbivores splendor of downtown’s modern core and and carnivores alike with its flavor-packed enjoy an eclectic selection of locally sourced, menu, large tequila selection and chic classic-meets-modern dishes including outdoor patio. Dig into an enchilada verde smoked bone marrow, falafel and a or chimichanga on the secluded terrace foie-gras funnel cake with strawberries. adorned with potted succulents, bistro lights Just half a mile southeast, in a seemingly and rustic brick accents, and make a night of different world, is Redbird. Housed in the it with dinner before a show at the historic former rectory building of the 1885 St. Troubadour, just a five-minute walk away. Vibiana cathedral, this American eatery offers a unique Slightly southward, where West Hollywood meets patio-dining experience. An open ceiling floods the area Mid-City, is Terrine, a California brasserie where a with natural light by day, highlighting design elements Cliff’s Edge 3626 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., wide range of dishes, from a simple burger to a whole chosen carefully to complement the precious details 323.666.6116 / E.P. & roasted duck, can be enjoyed in a lovely courtyard of the original structure. Dine on a variety of dishes, L.P. 603 N. La Cienega shaded by a magnificent oak tree. Midcentury patio such as the cottage pie with bone marrow, wagyu short Blvd., West Hollywood, chairs, white table coverings and bistro lights create the rib and foie gras, or Australian rack of lamb, and finish 310.855.9955 / Gracias feel of a European sidewalk café. Check the website for the meal with a craft cocktail under the stars. Madre 8905 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, specials du jour—including Tuesday’s confit cassoulet, Fewer than 5 miles northwest, as Cesar Chavez 323.978.2170 / Idle Saturday’s côte de boeuf and everything in between— Avenue turns into Sunset, is the romantic patio at Hour 4824 Vineland for a delightfully French meal on Beverly. Cliff’s Edge. Hidden in an unmarked building, Cliff’s Ave., North HollyAn L.A. story wouldn’t be complete without the Edge boasts one of the most secluded outdoor dining wood, 818.980.5604 breeze of the Pacific Ocean, and Venice Beach’s Rose experiences in Silver Lake. Enveloped by the branches / Ivory on Sunset Mondrian Hotel, Café-Restaurant has been serving patrons in the of an ancient tree and a variety of lush greenery, the 8440 Sunset Blvd., salty air since 1979. After undergoing a major renovapatio transports you far from the stylish chaos of West Hollywood, tion in late 2015, the Rose reopened as a brighter, Sunset Junction, despite being right in its midst. Take 323.848.6000 / L’Ami more stylish rendition of itself, reflecting the changing advantage of the pillow-covered benches and roaring 246 26th St., Santa landscape of one of L.A.’s most eclectic neighborfire pits to fully live in the moment, and dine on a rich, Monica, 310.310.8064 / Nobu Malibu 22706 hoods. Throw on a pair of flip-flops and take a seat delicious dish from the curated seasonal menu. Pacific Coast Hwy., on the sprawling patio lit by wicker lamps and string A bit off the beaten path in North Hollywood is one Malibu, 310.317.9140 lights. Fill up on a globally inspired menu of raw bites, of L.A. County’s most whimsical dining concepts. / Otium 222 S. Hope rotisserie proteins and handmade pasta, and wash it Not only is Idle Hour’s main building modeled after a St., L.A., 213.935.8500 down with a Walnut Sidecar or Macadamia Phosphate whiskey barrel, but also a 14-foot pipe-smoking bull/ Redbird 114 E. 2nd St., L.A., 213.788.1191 / from the craft-cocktail menu. dog—a replica of the legendary Bulldog Café that once Rose Café-Restaurant Five miles north, in a tony part of Santa Monica, is graced a 1930s Washington Boulevard—towers on 220 Rose Ave., Venice, a dining terrace that transports its clientele to the its back patio. Sitting beneath the giant dog while 310.399.0711 / Terrine south of France. With its arched passageways, royalsavoring a Moscow mule and a plate of hot wings is an 8265 Beverly Blvd., blue accents and white tablecloths, L’Ami offers a experience unmatched anywhere in town. L.A., 323.746.5130 French-Mediterranean experience in ambiance as well Moving west to the chic corner of La Cienega and E.P. & L.P. pastry chef as cuisine. French-born chef Francis Bey serves a menu Melrose is E.P. & L.P., one of the city’s trendiest new Zen Ong. Opposite: of seasonal, organic ingredients, including a ratatouille spots. Dine inside (E.P.) to experience the full menu The patio—and magomelet and croque madame for brunch. For dinner, by talented young chef Louis Tikaram, then ascend to nificent city view—at Ivory on Sunset choose from an extensive surf-and-turf menu, starting the outdoor rooftop bar (L.P.), which offers sweepwith an appetizer of shucked oysters and following ing views of central L.A., creative cocktails and a with an entrée of rack of lamb. narrowed-down menu that includes two varieties of bao, tofu Finally, to experience one of the county’s most outstanding alfresco fries and a chicken sandwich. dining experiences, visit the veranda at Nobu Malibu, which offers For a more refined high-in-the-sky experience, visit Ivory on a panorama of the Pacific from every table. Feast on Nobu’s Sunset: a fine-dining concept inspired by Old Hollywood charm. A signature Japanese dishes, including black-cod miso and yellowtail transparent covered veranda accommodates natural light, and floorwith jalapeño, or opt for Asian-fusion offerings, such as lobster cevito-ceiling windows offer a gorgeous, wind-free view of the sprawl. che and pastrami crispy rice, as you watch the sailboats float by. The expansive menu includes shared plates, raw and chilled offerings,
COURTESY E.P. & L.P. OPPOSITE: MARIE BUCK
Primo Patios
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FIND YOUR
MARINA MOMENT Where living in the moment means paddleboarding to breakfast. Seizing the day can be a mid-morning sailing lesson, parasailing over the marina or cycling to Venice Beach. Embracing an evening is toasting the sunset and dancing under the star-kissed sky on a harbor cruise. It’s all here... what will your Marina adventure be? Check out visitmarinadelrey.com or call 310.305.9545 for information. Get connected with Marina del Rey
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where abouts Los Angeles is the most populous county in the nation and among the most culturally diverse. Its 4,000 square miles encompass dozens of cities and more than 200 neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. The pages that follow will guide you through the most visited among them, pointing out starring attractions and uncovering hidden gems along the way.
DAVE LAURIDSEN
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EXPLORING
Beverly Hills BEVERLY HILLS IS A LUXURY LOVER’S MECCA: DESIGNER SHOPPING, FINE DINING, MANSIONS. CENTURY CITY, WESTWOOD AND CULVER CITY ARE POCKETS WITH THEIR OWN DRAWS.
➺It’s only 5 square miles, but Beverly Hills looms large in pop culture as a posh locale that boasts some The Mansions
The launch of Beverly Hills’ glamorous reputation dates to the early 20th century, when the then-new Beverly Hills Hotel ushered in a frenzy of movie-star mansionbuilding in the hills north of Sunset Boulevard. Today, the population of 35,000 is more diverse than its depiction on TV and in movies might suggest. Nonetheless, the triumvirate of Beverly Hills, Holmby Hills and Bel-Air still attracts its share of famous residents. Hop on the Beverly Hills Trolley Tour, or book ahead with Starline Tours, to see notable homes in the ‘hood, along with other local landmarks packed into the city’s 5 square miles. Among the more storied and oft-filmed estates nestled in the hills is the 19th-century English Revival-style Greystone Park & Mansion, whose graceful city-owned grounds are open for strolling.
Rodeo Drive + Golden Triangle
From Greystone, head west on Sunset Boulevard, then hang on to your wallet as you turn south onto Rodeo Drive. After passing through a tony residential neighborhood, you enter the shopping district known as
the Golden Triangle, bounded by Santa Monica and Wilshire boulevards and Cañon Drive. Burberry, Saint Laurent and Gucci each recently debuted new or renovated flagships on Rodeo, reminding retailers that 90210 is still the most prestigious ZIP code in the States. Ascend the Italian-esque side street to fine-art destination Galerie Michael and Tiffany & Co., perched atop Two Rodeo. Sip some wine at 208 Rodeo, then pause for the quintessential Beverly Hills snapshot before continuing on to the Beverly Wilshire hotel (of Pretty Woman fame) at the south end of Rodeo Drive. Continuing west, pass Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and recently revamped Barneys New York, the reigning luxury retail titans along this stretch of Wilshire. At Santa Monica Boulevard, you hit the Beverly Hilton hotel, which rolls out 30,000 square feet of red carpet annually to host the Golden Globe Awards.
The Industry + the Arts
Beverly Hills isn’t all shopping sprees and gated estates: Talent agencies William Morris Endeavor and United Talent Agency are just two of the entertainment businesses based
here. Rub shoulders with the power-lunchers at Thomas Keller’s Bouchon or Wolfgang Puck’s legendary Spago on Cañon, or grab dinner and hear live music at Mastro’s Steakhouse just up the street. The city’s cultural treasure troves include the Paley Center for Media and the Samuel Goldwyn Theater at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, both of which hold screenings. There is even more cultural programming at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, which transformed the historic Beverly Hills Post Office into an entertainment destination.
Century City
Heading west from Beverly Hills on Santa Monica Boulevard, you enter the 0.7-squaremile modern acropolis of Century City. ICM Partners and Creative Artists Agency are located here, as are a Fox Studios lot and countless legal, financial, entertainment and hospitality firms. But those outside the biz won’t be excluded. Past Avenue of the Stars, you hit the upscale Westfield Century City shopping center, which is open for business as it undergoes a dramatic redevelopment.
FROM LEFT: COURTESY BEVERLY HILLS CVB; EDWIN SANTIAGO. OPPOSITE: MATT HARTMAN
of the priciest mansions in L.A. County, not to mention the world’s most recognizable ZIP code. Rodeo Drive, perhaps the world’s most famous shopping street, offers virtually every luxury fashion brand.
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NEW IN TOWN Platform
Architectural landmark Hayden Tract now houses this curated collection of merchants including Aesop, Blue Bottle Coffee, SoulCycle, the Cannibal and Parabellum. 8850 Washington Blvd., Culver City, platformla.com
Salon Kazumi
Celeb-beloved master hair-colorist Kazumi Morton opens her first salon—a welcoming, light-filled space— offering cuts, color, styling and more. 9725 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.751.0909
Schutz
After a recent pop-up shop at the Grove, the Brazilian-based shoe brand favored by fashion influencers opens its first West Coast boutique. 314 Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.435.9669
Storefronts along North Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Opposite, from left: Welcome to Beverly Hills; the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts
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The pedestrian-friendly Westwood Village features independent shops and cafés among its Mediterranean Revival and art deco buildings.
Nearby on Constellation Boulevard, epicures are drawn to Tom Colicchio’s Craft and Hinoki & the Bird, inside the towering residential complex the Century. (Candy Spelling claims the top two floors.) The Annenberg Space for Photography displays cutting-edge exhibits of digital and print photography.
UCLA
A few miles northeast of Century City is the University of California, Los Angeles, one of the top public universities in the country. Visitors are welcome at several university attractions, including the Fowler Museum at UCLA and the outdoor Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden on the north campus, the planetarium on the south campus and the 7-acre Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Gardens. The free Hammer Museum is nearby and houses impressionist paintings, as well as cutting-edge contemporary exhibitions. Paid parking is available in UCLA lots and structures throughout the 419-acre campus.
G R E AT F I N D
Westwood Village
Just south of the campus, the pedestrianfriendly Westwood Village features independent shops and cafés among its Mediterranean Revival and art deco buildings, as well as two landmark movie theaters at the intersection of Broxton and Weyburn avenues: the 1936 marquee-wrapped Bruin theater and the Fox theater across the street. Built circa 1931, the Fox is a favorite for movie premieres and thus is prime starspotting territory. Another don’t-miss venue is the award-winning Geffen Playhouse, located on Le Conte Avenue in one of the oldest buildings in Westwood.
Culver City
Covering 5 square miles southeast of Westwood, Culver City boasts a thriving downtown with new restaurants including Korean-barbecue spot Hanjip and Indianinspired Sambar. The Kirk Douglas Theatre and the Ivy Substation, home to the Actors’
/estate of grace
➺ Taste the Champagne lifestyle at Virginia Robinson Gardens—former residence of retail titans Virginia and Harry Robinson and Beverly Hills’ first luxury estate. Built in 1911, the estate saw lavish parties attended by the likes of Marlene Dietrich, Fred Astaire and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, which performed on the lawn. Today, the 6-acre estate is on the National Register of Historic Places and stewarded by L.A.’s Department of Recreation and Parks with the Friends of Robinson Gardens. During a tour through the mansion, pool pavilion and gardens (including the largest king palm forest in the Western Hemisphere, seen right), you can almost hear violins and the clink of crystal flutes carried on the breeze. By appointment only. 1008 Elden Way, Beverly Hills, 310.550.2087, robinsongardens.org —S.E.
FROM TOP: MATT HARTMAN; DIANE JENKINS
The Culver City station on the Metro Expo Line
Gang, bookend the downtown area and stage live productions throughout the year. Traveling east on Washington Boulevard, don’t miss the sprawling Helms Bakery complex, which contains dozens of high-end furniture showrooms. Moving along Washington, the scene-y Arts District has more than 30 art galleries and exhibition spaces clustered along Washington and La Cienega boulevards. At the intersection of Washington and National boulevards is a stop on the Expo Line, a Metro light rail that, thanks to a recent extension, goes from 7th/Metro Center downtown all the way to Santa Monica. Hollywood gets all the attention, but it’s Culver City whose seal proclaims it “The Heart of Screenland.” In 1915, Ince/Triangle Studios, today Sony Pictures Studios, opened on Washington. In 1924, the site became Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios. Classics including The Wizard of Oz would eventually be filmed on its movie lots. (News reports of the time indicate that the “Munchkins” partied hard during their stay at the Culver Hotel.) Today, Culver City’s screen culture is still going strong, with 16 soundstages accommodating TV-show and feature-film shoots at Culver Studios and hits such as Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! being taped on the historic lots at Sony. Fully experience Culver City’s screen heritage by taking the Sony Pictures Studio Tour. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see page 100.
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EXPLORING
Santa Monica SANTA MONICA HAS THE APPROACHABLE VIBE OF A BEACH TOWN WITH THE ATTRACTIONS OF A MAJOR CITY. MALIBU, VENICE AND MARINA DEL REY ARE APPEALING OPTIONS NEARBY.
➺In the 1800s, orator Tom Fitch called Santa Monica “the Zenith City by the Sunset Sea.” The 21st-century
version of Santa Monica fulfills its early promise, with a bustling downtown and beach that attract millions of visitors per year. Pacific Coast Highway connects SaMo with draws such as Malibu and Marina del Rey. Third Street Promenade, three pedestrianonly blocks on 3rd Street between Broadway and Wilshire Boulevard, is perpetually teeming with people. Visitors can hit dozens of boutiques, watch movies at three cinemas and gawk at the myriad street artists. If they don’t refuel at the many eateries along the Promenade, visitors can venture to the surrounding blocks to Mercado or the Misfit and enjoy drinks at The Bungalow or the many pubs, such as Ye Olde King’s Head, that hint at Santa Monica’s large population of British expats. Anchoring the promenade at Broadway is Santa Monica Place, a beautiful open-air shopping center with Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, 80 boutiques, ArcLight Cinemas and the top-level Dining Deck. Steps away is the new western terminus of the Metro Expo Line, which connects Santa Monica by light rail to downtown Los Angeles. Santa Monica Pier, built in 1909, is at the end of Colorado Avenue and features Pacific Park, a mini amusement park with food stands and rides, including a solar-powered, LED-lit Ferris wheel.
Main Street + Montana Avenue
Compared with the hustle and bustle of Third Street Promenade, Montana Avenue is downright tranquil. Between 6th and 17th streets are plenty of fashionable boutiques and beauty destinations, including Moondance, Clare V., new Olive & June nail salon and Malin + Goetz. Father’s Office is known for its burgers, Ox & Son is tops for “oystas,” and Sweet Lady Jane is famous for its cakes. Just minutes south of downtown Santa Monica, Main Street exudes a beachy, upscale vibe. The long stretch between Pico Boulevard and Rose Avenue contains a number of galleries, pubs, coffeehouses and restaurants, plus shops such as Lost & Found and Planet Blue. The California Heritage Museum is in a transplanted Victorian-era home, as is the Victorian, adjacent to the museum, which features a cool downstairs speakeasy, Basement Tavern.
The Arts
Visitors can take in plays at Main Street’s Edgemar Center for the Arts, housed in an angular concrete structure designed by Frank
Gehry. An even wider variety of entertainment is at the Broad Stage, Santa Monica College’s first-rate, 499-seat performingarts, film, dance and theater venue. On Michigan Avenue, the Bergamot Station arts center—now a stop on the Expo Line—has emerged as a hub for L.A.’s creative community. It’s home to some 30 galleries and a café.
Malibu
A few miles north of Santa Monica on Pacific Coast Highway is Malibu. Formerly known as Rancho Malibu, Malibu’s land was once so coveted that May K. Rindge, who took ownership of it in 1905 after the death of her scion husband, used armed guards to defend it from trespassers. In the 1920s, Rindge’s hefty legal bills, racked up from fighting developers, forced her to invite stars to live in Malibu Colony in the 1920s, and the legacy of Malibu as celebrity-home central continues today. Many of Malibu’s best destinations are visible from PCH, including renowned restaurants with ocean views, from the casual (Malibu Seafood) to the upscale (Nobu Malibu). Adjacent to the Malibu Lagoon and
TOP LEFT AND OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN
Third Street + the Pier
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NEW IN TOWN Chan Luu
The L.A.-based lifestyle brand marks its 20th anniversary by opening a U.S. flagship, offering its handcrafted jewelry, scarves and apparel. 395 Santa Monica Place, Suite 236, Santa Monica, 310.907.9301
LCD
Short for “Lust Covet Desire,” this e-commerce boutique now has a brick-and-mortar shop showcasing independent designers including Ryan Roche and Gabriela Artigas. 1919 S. Lincoln Blvd., Venice, 424.500.2552
The Lincoln
This craft-spirits bar recalls a vintage garage—complete with a 1927 Model T roadster showpiece. 2536 Lincoln Blvd., Venice, 310.822.1715
. The Getty Center in Brentwood. Opposite, from left: Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica; Santa Monica State Beach
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M Malibu’s land was once so coveted that heiress May K. Rindge, who took ownership of it in 1905, used armed guards to defend it from trespassers.
up, thanks to the emergence of hot restaurants such as reborn Rose Café-Restaurant, plus a smattering of hip shops. Visitors strolling Ocean Front Walk get an eyeful, between the performers, the vendors and the Muscle Beach bodybuilders.
Brentwood
Bird Sanctuary, the Adamson House is filled with historic tile. The celebrity-frequented Malibu Country Mart serves as the area’s town square. Together with the adjacent Malibu Village and Malibu Lumber Yard, there are plenty of shops and restaurants for whiling away an afternoon. Inland, nearing Calabasas, is wine country, where you can sample the local vino at tasting rooms such as Malibu Wines.
Topanga + Pacific Palisades
In the 1960s, hippies and musicians such as Neil Young hid out in idyllic Topanga, accessible by Topanga Canyon Boulevard from Pacific Coast Highway. Removed from urban activity, it retains its bohemian vibe and independently owned businesses. Hiking trails allow visitors to bask in Topanga’s woodsy beauty, and restaurants such as Inn of the Seventh Ray accommodate creekside dining. There’s more than initially meets the eye in seemingly sleepy, family-friendly Pacific
G R E AT F I N D
Palisades, south of Topanga on PCH and accessed from Temescal Canyon Road. Hikers love the shady trails in Temescal Gateway Park, and cafés and upscale momand-pop shops can be found between Via de la Paz and Monument Street near Sunset Boulevard. The Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine on Sunset is a 10-acre oasis with a lush garden and koi- and swan-filled lake. The crown jewel of the Palisades is the Getty Villa. Styled as a Julius Caesar-era villa, it’s filled with Greco-Roman antiquities.
Venice
Abbot Kinney won in a coin toss the land that would become Venice. He sought to develop it as an American version of the Italian city; the canals are still there, lined with multimillion-dollar bungalows. His namesake Abbot Kinney Boulevard is Venice’s coolest section, where Gjelina, Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea and boutiques such as Heist and Huset are the main attractions. Rose Avenue is also coming
/ designer doggy duds
➺ Is there anything cuter than a puppy? Why, yes, there is: a puppy wearing a
spiffy bow tie. Just take a peek at Instagram star Como, pictured right at the new Malibu location of Max-Bone, a shop for dog lovers with an eye for style. There (as at the flagship on La Cienega) you’ll find hoodies, combo collar/bow ties, bandanas and other dog clothing and accessories as fashion-forward as your own. (Fans include Kylie Jenner, whose pooch Norman recently sported the brand’s hand-knit sweater.) Lest you scoff at dressing up your pet, advocates say dogs with light coats can benefit from a sweater on chilly days, and you may benefit from less dog hair floating around your house. It’s a win-win. Just ask Como. 3828 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 424.302.0606, max-bone.com —S.E.
Marina del Rey
Marina del Rey’s main attraction is the marina, the largest man-made small-craft harbor in the world. Restaurants such as Cast & Plow and Cafe del Rey are positioned to take advantage of the views, and at the New England-style Fisherman’s Village, boat-rental and cruise companies such as Hornblower offer visitors myriad ways to get out on the water. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see page 100.
FROM TOP: ANGELA DECENZO; @COMOANDTHECITY, COURTESY MAX-BONE
Skateboarders take a break at Venice Beach.
Marilyn Monroe once called this enclave northeast of Santa Monica home; it remains a favorite stamping ground of the affluent and famous. San Vicente Boulevard functions as the neighborhood’s main street, with copious independent shops, bakeries, cafés and restaurants. The petite Brentwood Country Mart, a unique open-air shopping center built in 1948, keeps retail offerings contemporary and upscale. The area’s biggest draw is the Getty Center, the hilltop museum that houses J. Paul Getty’s spectacular art collection.
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MEMORIES MADE FRESH DAILY FROM AN 82 YEAR–OLD FAMILY RECIPE.
LOS ANGELES’ FAVORITE SHOPPING & DINING DESTINATION SINCE 1934 Since its inception, The Original Farmers Market has delivered exceptional shopping, fresh food and fond memories. Conveniently located in the heart of Los Angeles, this Southern California landmark features open-air ambiance and an ecletic mix of over 100 specialty shops, artisan grocers, and world-class restaurants — many of which are still owned and operated by generations-old family merchants. We invite you to visit one of the city’s most iconic destinations, made from the timeless ingredients of family, friends and fun.
6333 W. THIRD ST. • LOS ANGELES 323.933.9211 • FARMERSMARKETLA.COM #FARMERSMARKETLA Insta
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EXPLORING
West Hollywood TRENDS IN FASHION, DESIGN AND FOOD OFTEN BEGIN IN L.A., AND MANY OF THOSE INNOVATIONS CAN BE TRACED TO THE PIONEERING COMMUNITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD.
➺For a municipality measuring less than 2 square miles and with fewer than 35,000 residents, West
Hollywood wields enormous influence over the L.A. lifestyle. With a number of world-class art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, nightclubs and theaters, it’s a frequent destination for locals and tourists alike. After dark, this iconic stretch of Sunset Boulevard between Doheny Drive and Crescent Heights Avenue becomes the hottest stretch of asphalt in L.A. County. The club scene here rocks with legendary establishments like the Roxy, the Whisky a Go Go and the Viper Room, which have a long history of hosting performances by rock ‘n’ roll’s finest. Other Sunset Strip nightclubs include Rock & Reilly’s and newer 1 OAK. The Comedy Store continues to showcase the leading names in stand-up, as well as emerging stars. During the day, boutiques such as beloved Book Soup draw traffic. Hotels are an integral part of the Sunset Strip scene. Chateau Marmont, a glorious and notorious celebrity hangout throughout the decades, remains a discreet local getaway. Skybar, at the style-conscious Mondrian, retains its aura of exclusivity. At the Sunset Tower Hotel, Bugsy Siegel’s former suite has been converted into the Tower Bar.
Sunset Plaza
Sunset Plaza, between La Cienega and San Vicente boulevards on Sunset Boulevard, is a
collection of tony shops and bistros with an international flavor and free parking—a novelty in this neighborhood. This is the city’s Euro Zone, where you’re apt to hear more French and Italian than Valley Girl. For up-to-the-minute fashion, check out Wildfox, Zadig & Voltaire or either of the two H. Lorenzo shops. Pamper yourself with a facial at Ole Henriksen Face/Body Spa, a mani-pedi at Jessica Nail Clinic, a blow-out at Drybar or a makeover at Blushington.
Melrose Avenue
Melrose Avenue has become virtually synonymous with trendiness, and new expressions in fashion, art and food continue to percolate up and down this street that has multiple personalities. One stretch of Melrose, east of Fairfax Avenue, has a mix of indie boutiques, cafés, tattoo parlors and vintage shops. Stores such as Wasteland have wild facades and vibrant signage that add energy to the scene. Farther west, Melrose becomes très sophistiqué, showcasing upscale tastes at Ron Herman, Assembly, Kelly Wearstler and Vivienne Westwood. Just off Melrose is the fashionable three-
block street of Melrose Place, where Bentleys line up for chic salons such as Nine Zero One and cutting-edge boutiques such as Irene Neuwirth, Isabel Marant, the Apartment by the Line and Violet Grey.
West Hollywood Design District
Melrose Avenue’s flourishing art, fashion and design district runs along the pedestrian-friendly retail corridors of Melrose and Beverly and Robertson boulevards. Among its newer offerings are a Helmut Lang flagship and RH: The Gallery On Melrose Avenue. The district’s hub is the Pacific Design Center complex—monolithic blue, green and red buildings designed by celebrated architect Cesar Pelli—which houses more than 130 showrooms catering to professional designers and luxury-home owners and is home to a satellite of downtown’s Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and a stylish Wolfgang Puck eatery, Red Seven.
Beverly + West 3rd
Beverly Boulevard and West 3rd Street, major east-west streets running through West Hollywood, are filled with trendy res-
DALE BERMAN (2). OPPOSITE: DAVE LAURIDSEN
Sunset Strip
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NEW IN TOWN
Doheny Room
SBE’s stylish new bar and lounge offers craft cocktails and an eclectic menu. 9077 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.777.0266
Frame
The London-meetsL.A. fashion brand’s first boutique is adjacent to the new pretty-in-pink Alfred Tea Room. 8467 Melrose Place, L.A., 310.464.2270
The Guild
This petite, rustic restaurant, wine bar and retail space is housed in the former Screen Actors Guild headquarters. 8741 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.279.9601
Chris Burden’s installation Urban Light at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Opposite, from left: Farmers Market; Topshop at the Grove
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W sho a st m sho
Beverly Hills may be the county’s toniest shopping district, but Robertson Boulevard is not far behind.
taurants, design showrooms and boutiques from some of the hottest up-and-coming clothing designers. The two streets bracket the landmark eight-level Beverly Center, which is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation. Bloomingdale’s, Fendi, Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo, Uniqlo, Sandro and Jimmy Choo boutiques are among the center’s more than 160 establishments. On West 3rd Street east of Beverly Center, you’ll find favorite boutiques such as Flight 001 for stylish travel supplies, OK for designminded gifts, Pyrrha for handcrafted jewelry and Wittmore for contemporary menswear. Great dining options include Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo’s seafood spot, Son of a Gun, and Vic Casanova’s two Italian concepts, Gusto and Pistola. On Beverly Boulevard, you can shop for high-end home decor and accessories at Garde and fragrances at Eric Buterbaugh Florals, dine on French-inspired California dishes at Terrine and finish with a sweet treat from Cake Monkey.
G R E AT F I N D
Robertson Boulevard
Beverly Hills may be the county’s toniest shopping district, but Robertson Boulevard is not far behind, with trendy shops appealing to the young and hot set. Hit Chaser for vintage-inspired streetwear for women and kids, and Lululemon for haute yoga duds. A cutting-edge Chanel concept store illustrates the difference between Robertson Boulevard and more staid Rodeo Drive. For a breather between boutique-hopping, consider a cocktail with crab cakes on the picket-fenced patio of Ivy restaurant, where famous faces practically outnumber those of civilians. Cecconi’s, just off Robertson, is also popular for power lunches.
Fairfax and Mid-Wilshire
L.A.’s Fairfax District and neighboring MidWilshire are among the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in the Mid-City/ West Hollywood area. At Fairfax Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard is the Los Angeles
/ make it on melrose
those small verdant oases enclosed in glass bubbles. They’re irresistible. And they’re easy and super-fun to make when you visit MakersKit’s flagship DIY store on Melrose Avenue. You can find their DIY kits in stores like Macy’s and West Elm, but now the DIY purveyors have a hub where you have all the succulents, air plants, fixtures, pebbles, crystals, plastic dinosaurs and rainbows of sand and moss you’ll ever need to make a terrarium. The fun starts at $10 for a walk-in workshop ($8 for kits), and it doesn’t stop at terrariums. Bath bombs, gemstone soaps, candles, body scrubs—the materials are waiting for you (and a friend) to pop in to play any day of the week. 7600 Melrose Ave., L.A., 213.973.7019, makerskit.com —S.D.
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LA CIENEGA BOULEVARD
➺ Terrariums:
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FROM TOP: COURTESY THE ROW; SUZANNE ENNIS
The Row on Melrose Place, one of Los Angeles’ most exclusive shopping areas
County Museum of Art (LACMA), a renowned facility with more than 100,000 works dating from the ancient period to today. Adjacent to LACMA is the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, where the Ice Age comes alive. Additional venues on this formidable Museum Row include the newly renovated Petersen Automotive Museum and the Craft & Folk Art Museum. South of the museums is a surprise for curious foodies: a neighborhood known as Little Ethiopia, where acclaimed traditional restaurants are located. To the museums’ east is the burgeoning District La Brea, a walkable stretch filled with hot restaurants like Odys + Penelope and hip boutiques including American Rag and A+R. One of the Fairfax District’s anchors is the historic Farmers Market, established in 1934, with more than 100 open-air produce stalls, shops and eateries. There are spots to satisfy virtually any craving, including a wine bar, a taqueria and stands with authentic Louisiana gumbo or gourmet Fritzi hot dogs. Adjacent and connected by a vintage trolley is The Grove, an outdoor, pedestrian-only shopping center. The Grove has the character of an old-fashioned village square, with stained-glass streetlamps and a central fountain. Nordstrom, a movie theater and stores such as Paige, J.Crew and Sephora are joined by myriad restaurants including Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see pages 100-101.
With over 75 destination shops, acclaimed restaurants and independent specialty stores West 3rd Street is the most walkable dining and shopping district in the center of Los Angeles.
Comprised of six connecting blocks between La Cienega Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue, West 3rd Street is just moments from The Grove, The Original Farmers Market, The Beverly Center and The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA).
A WALKABLE DINING & SHOPPING DISTRICT “Between La Cienega and Fairfax”
@WESTTHIRDSTREET
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WOMEN Alexis Bittar . . . . . . . . . . .C August . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E Bead Boutique . . . . . . . . E 3 Bedhead Pajamas . .C Elaine Kim . . . . . . . . . . . .C Entre Nous . . . . . . . . . . . P KFK Jewelers . . . . . . . . . E Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P M. Cohen Designs. . . . Q Mom’s the Word . . . . . . U Monserat De Lucca . . . . P noodle stories . . . . . . . . . E Polkadots & Moonbeams . . . . . .C 2 Pyrrha . . . . . . . . . . . . . E Ragdoll LA . . . . . . . . . . . . P Shopaholic Sample Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T William B.+ Friends . . . Q
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WITTMORE
PYRRHA
BEDHEAD PAJAMAS
8236 West 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90048 (323) 782-9791 shopwittmore.com
8315 West 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90048 (323) 424-4807 pyrrha.com
8336 West 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90048 (323) 653-8336 bedheadpjs.com
HOME & GIFTS Aero Shade Co Inc . . . . P Allan Jeffries Framing . . E Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E Craft in America Center . . . . . . . . . . . . B Flight 001. . . . . . . . . . . . . E Freehand Gallery . . . . . . B M. Cohen Designs. . . . Q Michael Hittleman Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . B New Stone Age . . . . . . . B Plastica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B Portola Paints & Glazes . G 2 Pyrrha . . . . . . . . . . . . . E Vintageweave Interiors. U MEN Douglas Fir . . . . . . . . . . . E Duncan Quinn . . . . . . . . R Concept 83661/2 . . . . Q 2 Pyrrha . . . . . . . . . . . . . E 1 Wittmore . . . . . . . . . . R KIDS Eggy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C Youth Academy of Dramatic Arts . . . . . . J
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BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE
THE ORLANDO HOTEL
DAN DEUTSCH OPTICAL OUTLOOK
8048 West 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90048 (323) 656-5474 blueplatewest3rd.com
8384 West 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90048 (800) 624-6835 theorlando.com
8358 West 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90048 (323) 658-6181 dandeutschopticaloutlook.com
OPTICAL 6 Dan Deutsch Optical Outlook. . . Q Gogosha Optique . . . . . R Optical Sphere . . . . . . . . T SERVICES Grandpoint Bank . . . . . .N Mercer Vine Real Estate . . . . . . . . S 5 Orlando Hotel . . . . . Q uBreakiFix . . . . . . . . . . . Q Zulu Tattoo . . . . . . . . . . . J FOOD & DRINK Belcampo Meat Co. . . . K Berri’s Cafe on Third . . . P 4 Blue Plate Oysterette . . . . . . . . T Carmela Ice Cream. . . . U The Churchill . . . . . . . . Q Juice Served Here. . . . Q Doughboys Cafe & Bakery . . . . . . . . . . S El Carmen . . . . . . . . . . . . S Electric Karma . . . . . . . . R Goal Sports Cafe . . . . . Q Gusto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P Joan’s on Third . . . . . . Q Kreation Organic . . . . . . P The Little Door . . . . . . . . S The Little Next Door . . . S Magnolia Bakery. . . . . . .C Mainland Poke . . . . . . . Q Mama’s Secret Bakery & Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . Q Matcha Box . . . . . . . . . . . T Mercado . . . . . . . . . . . . . U Pistola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T Quality Food & Beverage . . . . . . . . T Simplethings Restaurant . . . . . . . . Q Sockerbit . . . . . . . . . . . . U Son of a Gun . . . . . . . . . Q Sweet E’s Bakery . . . . . .G Sweetgreen . . . . . . . . . . K Toca Madera . . . . . . . . . . P Verve Coffee Roasters . K
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FITNESS AIR - Aerial Fitness . . . . . P AuraCycle . . . . . . . . . . . . F The Bar Method . . . . . . . P Swerve Studio. . . . . . . . . R
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EXPLORING
Hollywood HOLLYWOOD IS IN THE MIDST OF A NEW GOLDEN AGE, AND ITS HIP, UP-AND-COMING NEIGHBORS LOS FELIZ, SILVER LAKE AND ECHO PARK SHARE IN THE LIMELIGHT.
➺“Hollywood is a state of mind” was a popular refrain when this part of Los Angeles was experiencing Hollywood & Highland
Hollywood & Highland has been a catalyst for the rebirth of Hollywood Boulevard. Its Dolby Theatre is the home of the Academy Awards, and the central Babylon Court frames views of the iconic Hollywood sign (built in 1923 to advertise a housing development, the 45-foot-high letters originally read “Hollywoodland”). Other draws include Ohm nightclub, dining spots and shops such as Sweet! candy store and Louis Vuitton. Next door to Hollywood & Highland is the TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre), famous for its celebrity hand- and footprints embedded in the concrete out front.
Showtime
Just across the street from Hollywood & Highland is the ornate, lavishly illuminated El Capitan Theatre. Masterfully restored by Disney, it offers special presentations of the studio’s releases, combined with performances using an antique Wurlitzer pipe organ and children-pleasing stage shows. Jimmy Kimmel Live! tapes in an ABC studio next door. The Egyptian Theatre—built in 1922 around the time that King Tut’s tomb
was discovered—screens eclectic artsy and classic fare. The landmark Pantages Theatre has staged megahit musicals including The Book of Mormon and Wicked, and the Hollywood Palladium has a rich history of showcasing top-notch musicians.
Walk of Fame
The sidewalks along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard (La Brea Avenue to Gower Street) and three blocks of Vine Street (Yucca Street to Sunset Boulevard) are inlaid with the legendary brass-and-terrazzo stars honoring celebrities from the entertainment industry. More than 2,400 stars are enshrined beneath tourists’ feet, but the roster is not without its quirks—Pee-wee Herman has one, but Clint Eastwood doesn’t. Marilyn Monroe’s star is steps from Hollywood & Highland, and John Lennon’s is in front of the Capitol Records Building, the landmark structure designed to resemble a stack of records.
Museums, Hollywood-style
Hollywood has museums, but don’t expect to encounter Picasso or Monet. Next to TCL Chinese Theatre is Madame Tussauds
Hollywood, filled with more than 100 wax figures ranging from legends like Clark Gable to contemporary stars including Taylor Swift. You can ponder some zany accomplishments at the Guinness World Record Museum, while the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium offers bizarre exhibitions. Movie buffs head to the Hollywood Museum in the historic Max Factor Building, which displays 10,000 artifacts showcasing 100 years of showbiz history, including Indiana Jones’ whip, a costume worn by Leonardo DiCaprio and the honeymoon dress worn by Marilyn Monroe after she married Joe DiMaggio.
Around Vine
The storied intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, the epicenter of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, boasted a large concentration of entertainment-industry companies in the 1920s. It’s a different Hollywood today, but the magic of this location endures in the soaring W Hollywood Hotel & Residences, which boasts Delphine brasserie. A Metro station is integrated into the hotel; Hollywood is particularly well served by mass transit. Across the street is boutique hotel the
FROM LEFT: LISA ROMEREIN; DALE BERMAN. OPPOSITE: EDWIN SANTIAGO
a decline not long ago. But with hot new boutiques, restaurants, hotels and condos sprouting up, it has re-emerged as a bona fide destination, and waves of international visitors mingle with colorful locals.
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NEW IN TOWN Paley
This restaurant in reinvented Columbia Square offers updated Hollywood glamour and beautiful plates of California cuisine. 6115 W. Sunset Blvd., Suite 100, L.A., 323.544.9430
Rubies + Diamonds
Glitzy and feminine describe the decor at this coffee-and-tea house next to Paley, while innovation and creativity define the approach to the menu. 6115 W. Sunset Blvd., Suite 150, L.A., 323.465.0400
Same Same
Head to this trendy new Silver Lake stripmall spot for spicy Thai street food, wine and beer. 2835 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., samesamethai.com
Hollywood Pantages Theatre. Opposite, from left: Eclectic gifts at Wacko/Soap Plant in Los Feliz; performers and onlookers on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
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Among the largest urban parks in America, sprawling Griffith Park is an ideal place to hike, picnic, golf, ride horses and more.
Redbury and its stylish Middle Eastern restaurant, Cleo, and bar, the Library. Sunset Boulevard and Vine is in transition, but dance clubs and eateries give this corner plenty of character. Serious cinephiles catch their flicks at ArcLight Cinemas, where it’s easy to spot a celeb. Close by is Amoeba Music, where music fans and collectors browse the aisles through 31,000 square feet of space packed with rare vinyl records, CDs and memorabilia. A couple of blocks west is the stylish minicomplex Space 15 Twenty, catering to shoppers well into the evening. The center is anchored by a supersize Urban Outfitters and complemented by cool boutiques.
Nightcrawling
The revival of Hollywood has only enhanced its nightlife opportunities, and a lively barand-club scene permeates the district. On Hollywood Boulevard, you can party under the guise of literary advancement at library-
G R E AT F I N D
themed Hemingway’s, drink and dine at Houston Hospitality hot spot No Vacancy, and attempt to get past the velvet ropes at nightclubs like Playhouse and Project Club LA. Cahuenga Boulevard also is home to dozens of clubs and eateries including chef Brendan Collins’ excellent Birch. Quintessentially L.A. but a galaxy removed from Hollywood Boulevard is the Hollywood Bowl, the largest outdoor amphitheater in the U.S., where the Los Angeles Philharmonic takes up residence from June to September. Picnicking under the stars here is among the most memorable experiences in L.A.
Los Feliz + Silver Lake
These neighborhoods are among the hippest in the county. Vermont Avenue, the main drag in Los Feliz, presents a collection of shops and restaurants that range from bohemian to chic. Skylight Books and 24/7 diner Fred 62 are popular hangouts. Lounges such as Rockwell represent the neighborhood’s
/ no-guilt goodies
➺ The dichotomy of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and still wanting to indulge is
perfectly resolved at Donut Farm, a new 100 percent vegan and organic doughnut shop in Silver Lake. The L.A. outpost marks the Northern California-based company’s first foray south. Inside the strip-mall spot, you’ll be greeted by a cheerful, Scandinavian-folktale-like mural of woodland creatures sharing doughnuts, painted by L.A.based artist Bunnie Reiss. As for the doughnuts themselves, you’ll find both cake and raised varieties in flavors ranging from a simple raised glazed to salted caramel, lavender Earl Grey, whiskey tangerine fig (aka WTF) and the buzzed-about banana fritter. Pair your treat with a cappuccino or matcha latte from the vegan coffee bar— L.A.’s first. 2609 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 213.755.7549, pepplesdonuts.com —G.G.
Griffith Park
Among the largest urban parks in America, Griffith Park is an ideal place to hike, take a train ride, picnic, golf and more. The Charlie Turner Trailhead begins at Griffith Observatory, one of the great planetariums in the world and a frequent film location. The hike up Mount Hollywood provides views of the Hollywood sign, and the Greek Theatre, a 5,700-seat amphitheater, is a legendary music venue. Also here are the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens and the Western-heritage-oriented Autry Museum of the American West, both accessible from the Ventura (SR 134) or Golden State (I-5) freeways. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see pages 100-101.
FROM TOP: DALE BERMAN; COURTESY DONUT FARM
Visitors ride a miniature train on the Griffith Park & Southern Railroad.
increasing sophistication. Nearby, a stretch of Hollywood Boulevard houses cult-favorite gift shop/gallery Wacko and hip Bar Covell, and Barnsdall Art Park offers recreational opportunities including tours of Frank Lloyd Wright’s recently restored Hollyhock House. At Sunset Junction, where Sunset and Santa Monica boulevards intersect, Los Feliz transitions into Silver Lake. Foodies hang at casual Forage or the Cheese Store of Silverlake, while aspiring screenwriters hammer at their laptops and sip lattes at Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea. Farther east on Sunset Boulevard, cool beach gear at Mollusk Surf Shop and chic handbags at the Clare V. flagship beckon.
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©2016 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 16-ADV-18186
HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s16) ©2016 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 16-ADV-18186
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EXPLORING
Downtown L.A.’S URBAN CENTER REFLECTS THE CULTURAL DIVERSITY, WORLD-CLASS ARCHITECTURE AND DYNAMIC COMMERCE THAT MAKE THE CITY A SUPERSTAR ON THE GLOBAL STAGE.
➺Downtown Los Angeles could not be hotter, with new restaurants and shops opening daily. Historic art
deco structures share the streetscape with glass-clad towers, and even movie stars are snapping up lofts in century-old buildings. The arts scene roars to life here, where the image of L.A. as “laid-back” hardly applies. Union Station was the last of the grand railroad terminals built in the U.S. Its importance faded as the automobile began to dominate life in L.A., but the station, which celebrated its 75th anniversary last year, has staged a comeback, thanks to a renovation and downtown’s new energy. From Union Station, the hub of the Metro system, you can board the Red Line to Hollywood and the San Fernando Valley or connect to the Blue Line to Long Beach or Expo Line to Santa Monica. The Gold Line runs to Pasadena. Nonstop bus service to LAX is available 24/7. Metrolink commuter trains connect distant suburbs, and Amtrak trains offer coastal journeys.
Grand Avenue + Music Center
The heart of L.A.’s performing-arts scene and the site of its most dramatic architecture, Grand Avenue is beginning to live up to its name. On Bunker Hill, once filled with Victorian mansions, four venues make up a formidable collection of stages at the Music Center. The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is home to L.A. Opera, and the Ahmanson Theatre and the Mark Taper Forum host theatrical
productions. The flashiest venue is architect Frank Gehry’s lauded Walt Disney Concert Hall, winter home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and its vivacious music director, Gustavo Dudamel. Also housed at Disney Hall is REDCAT, which offers visual, performing and multimedia arts programming. After a show, take a stroll through the 12-acre Grand Park, between Grand Avenue and Hill Street and 1st and Temple streets.
Descending Bunker Hill
Steps from the Ahmanson is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, designed by Spanish architect José Rafael Moneo. A short walk south on Grand is the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), and across from it is The Broad, the magnificent new museum built by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad. Both house premier collections of contemporary art. The Omni Hotel and California Plaza are adjacent to MOCA; nearby Angels Knoll is a welcome patch of greenery amid the concrete jungle. Angels Flight, a vintage funicular (now dormant) that climbs to California Plaza from Hill Street below, is billed as “The Shortest
Railway in the World.” At the foot of the hill, the Bunker Hill Steps rise five stories at the U.S. Bank Tower, the tallest building west of the Mississippi. Across the street is the art deco-style Central Library.
Olvera Street
The origin of the city of Los Angeles, dating back to 1781, is El Pueblo de Los Angeles, a collection of 27 buildings along festive pedestrian concourse Olvera Street. The city’s oldest building, Avila Adobe (circa 1818), is located here, along with Mexican restaurants, mariachi bands and merchants offering arts and crafts. A few blocks away is the city’s oldest restaurant, Philippe the Original (1908), where a cup of joe is just 49 cents.
Historic Districts
Undergoing a renaissance is the Broadway Theatre District, home to once-opulent movie palaces. Several, such as the United Artists theater (now the stylish Theatre at Ace Hotel), have been revived or restored to their original grandeur. Cool shops such as Acne Studios, Aesop and new BNKR lend cachet to the area. The Bradbury Building, built in 1893
FROM LEFT: MATT HARTMAN; LISA ROMEREIN. OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN
Union Station
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NEW IN TOWN Baldoria
Mozza sommelier David King’s new bar/ restaurant offers pre-bottled cocktails, gourmet grub and a distinctively laissezfaire attitude in trendy Little Tokyo. 243 S. San Pedro St., L.A., 213.947.3329
Hauser Wirth & Schimmel
This outpost of Swiss gallery Hauser & Wirth fills the Arts District’s sprawling Globe Mills complex with museum-caliber art exhibitions. 901 E. 3rd St., L.A., 213.943.1620
Miro
Whiskey and farmersmarket-driven cuisine are the stars at this stylish new Financial District restaurant. 888 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 213.988.8880
K.G. Louie Co.’s storefront in Chinatown. Opposite, from left: Grand Park and City Hall; sweets from Bottega Louie on South Grand Avenue
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Downtown’s heritage as a mercantile center can still be experienced in its historic shopping districts, popular with bargain hunters.
former St. Vibiana cathedral, now home to stylish Redbird restaurant. To Little Tokyo’s east is the rapidly gentrifying Arts District, which boasts buzzy shops and eateries including Bestia, one of the top restaurants (and hardest reservations to nab) in L.A.
L.A. Live A mural in downtown’s burgeoning Arts District—one of Los Angeles’ best places to see street art
in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, was featured in the film Blade Runner. Spring Street from 4th to 7th streets is a rapidly awakening area once referred to as the “Wall Street of the West.” Steps from this historic district is a row of trendy bars on 6th Street (between Main and Los Angeles streets) that includes The Varnish.
Shopping Districts
Downtown’s heritage as a mercantile center can still be experienced in its historic shopping districts. The Jewelry District draws shoppers looking for deals on diamonds; in the neighboring Fashion District, you can find designer clothing items. At Santee Alley, an open-air bargain bazaar, designer trends breed low-priced knockoffs. The Flower District offers blooms at wholesale prices. For an awesome mix of old-school produce vendors and lunch counters and new, upscale specialty stalls, Grand Central Market, near the foot of Angels Flight, is the place to go.
Chinatown
Chinatown is a great destination for sampling dim sum, dining at new foodie-favorite spots like Pok Pok LA or browsing for clothing, tea or home goods. Cultural highlights include Thien Hau Temple and the Chinese American Museum. Chung King Road and Gin Ling Way are home to galleries; Broadway is lined with boutiques. Dodger Stadium is a short drive away, as is San Antonio Winery, which offers tours, tastings and Maddalena restaurant.
Little Tokyo
Little Tokyo’s bar scene is popping, and you can nibble on traditional sushi prepared by veteran chefs at Japanese Village Plaza. Just a few steps down 1st Street is the sleek Japanese American National Museum. The Geffen Contemporary, a branch of MOCA, is next door. At 2nd and Main streets is the
Exposition Park
Just south of downtown is Exposition Park, whose grounds hold major museums and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The California African American Museum delves into African-American history, and the beaux arts-style Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers insight into prehistoric giants. The California Science Center has a 3-D Imax theater and exhibits the retired NASA space shuttle Endeavour. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of downtown, see page 101.
/ the great escape
➺ Inside an inconspicuous downtown office building sits Escape Room L.A., one of the city’s longest-running and most successful escape rooms—a live multiperson puzzle challenge where the objective is to “escape” a room before time runs out. Here, teams of up to 12 people work in one of four rooms varying in theme and difficulty (the Alchemist, the Detective, the Theatre and the Cavern), which they scour for clues and ciphers to help decode puzzles that eventually lead to escape. If the mere thought of being trapped has your heart racing, relax: The experience is more challenging and fun than scary and is recommended for anyone age 14 and over (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult). $30 per person weekdays and $35 per person weekends. 120 E. 8th St., downtown, 213.689.3229, escaperoomla.com —W.S.
FROM TOP: DANIEL ENNIS; BENJAMIN JET
G R E AT F I N D
And the Figat7th shopping center is home to trendy boutiques and eateries.
The $2.5 billion L.A. Live project is home to Staples Center, as well as the Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers and Kings, and it hosts top pop acts, as does Microsoft Theater, which boasts state-of-the-art acoustics. The Grammy Museum honors myriad music genres with videos, artifacts and interactive exhibits. A dozen restaurants and nightlife venues—WP24, Rock’n Fish and Lucky Strike Lanes, to name a few—face a massive urban plaza lined with LED screens. The Los Angeles Convention Center, encompassing 16-plus acres of exhibition space, is also here.
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L.A. STYLE OUTLET SAVINGS
Coach Michael Kors Kate Spade TUMI Hugo Boss A/X Disney Tommy Hilfiger Nike Levis
There is a style that is uniquely Los Angeles. Effortless, defined by this place where dreams come true and trends are born. Find Your L.A. Style at Citadel Outlets. A truly World Class shopping experience, with over 130 stores full of big brand style and fashion-conscious savings. It’s so L.A.— and only minutes from downtown.
CitadelOutlets.com I-5 at Atlantic Blvd. exit.
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EXPLORING
Pasadena THE BLOOM OF PASADENA DOESN’T FADE AFTER NEW YEAR’S DAY, AS A BLEND OF SMALL-TOWN CHARM AND COSMOPOLITAN ENERGY MAKES THE CROWN CITY A YEAR-ROUND DESTINATION.
➺Minutes from downtown L.A. via the Arroyo Seco Parkway (Pasadena Freeway) or the Metro Gold Line Old Pasadena
A tribute to foresighted urban planning is the 22-square-block shopping district known as Old Pasadena, roughly bounded by Walnut and Green streets, Arroyo Parkway and Pasadena Avenue. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s a collection of restored buildings filled with trendy boutiques, bistros and nightclubs. Merchants range from Tesla Motors to Urban Outfitters, and eateries include Union, a top-rated Italian restaurant. Pedestrian-only alleys meander through the One Colorado project in the heart of Old Pasadena, where restaurants offer alfresco dining overlooking a sculpture-strewn square. Boutiques such as Vince and Cop. Copine draw shoppers, while iPic Theaters reimagines the moviegoing experience with state-of-theart technology, plush seats and a bar/café. Nearby is the Norton Simon Museum, home to one of the finest art collections in the West. The galleries are filled with works dating from the Renaissance to the 20th century, and the museum’s repertoire of impressionist masters (e.g., Monet, Cézanne, Van Gogh) is formidable. A sculpture garden features a major tribute to Degas.
East of Old Pasadena is Paseo Colorado, a shopping center with an ArcLight movie theater, restaurants and shops lining garden promenades. Its open-air design frames views of Pasadena City Hall, a majestic landmark restored to its original beaux-arts grandeur.
Lake Avenue through one of the city’s most opulent residential neighborhoods leads to the Langham Huntington. Consider this grand, historic hotel for high tea, Japanese Kobe beef at its Royce steakhouse or pampering at its award-winning Chuan Spa.
Playhouse District + South Lake Avenue
San Marino + San Gabriel Valley
Anchored by the Mission-style Pasadena Playhouse, this district offers art-house cinema, antique shops, boutiques and bookstores, as well as the famed Ice House comedy club, whose stage has hosted George Carlin and Jerry Seinfeld. Other cultural attractions include the Boston Court Performing Arts Center and the USC Pacific Asia Museum, featuring decorative arts from every corner of Asia. The Pasadena Museum of California Art celebrates Golden State painters and sculptors from 1850 to the present. East of the Playhouse District, South Lake Avenue provides a vibrant shopping environment. Inviting boutiques are set around European-style courtyards at the Commons and Burlington Arcade. A drive south on
South of the Langham is San Marino and its primary attraction, The Huntington, whose library, art collections, botanical gardens and new education and visitor center occupy one of the most remarkable pieces of real estate in Southern California. Here, the Italianate mansion of railroad magnate Henry Huntington houses an extraordinary collection of 18th- and 19th-century art, and a library with nearly 9 million rare books, photographs and manuscripts occupies another structure. Throughout the 200-acre property are more than a dozen distinct botanical environments, the Helen & Peter Bing Children’s Garden and a formal rose garden boasting more than 1,400 varieties of the flower. Sharing Pasadena’s eastern border are the communities of Sierra Madre and Arcadia,
FROM LEFT: DALE BERMAN; COURTESY THE NORTON SIMON ART FOUNDATION. OPPOSITE: LISA ROMEREIN
commuter train is Pasadena. Its architectural pedigree is world-class, and renowned institutions including the Tournament of Roses and Caltech lend it cachet. The city’s diverse neighbors are also worth discovering.
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NEW IN TOWN
Duke Bakery
This innovative Singaporean bakery serves up both Japaneseand European-style artisan breads and cakes at its new location at the Americana at Brand. 803 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.246.8808
Highland Park Bowl
The 1933 Group has perfectly restored this Prohibition-era bowling alley to its former glory, with eight refurbished bowling lanes, a music room, a duo of horseshoeshaped bars and an open-air kitchen. 5621 N. Figueroa St., L.A., 323.257.2695
Under Armour
The performanceapparel brand has an eye-catching new outpost—its first West Coast “brand house”—at the Americana. 837 Americana Way, Glendale, 747.221.7832
The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens. Opposite, from left: Windowshoppers in Old Pasadena; a gallery at the Norton Simon Museum
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The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Garden’s natural Southern California habitat is famous for its wild peacocks.
home to Santa Anita Park, a storied thoroughbred-horse-racing venue. Arcadia is also home to the 127-acre Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, whose natural Southern California habitat is famous for its wild peacocks. Farther east, scattered along the San Bernardino Freeway (I-10), are the communities of San Gabriel, Temple City, Monterey Park and Alhambra, which have attracted large numbers of Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants, so the opportunity for enjoying Asian cuisine is virtually unrivaled in Southern California. Tourists passionate about history, architecture or faith explore the 1771 San Gabriel Mission, and the San Gabriel Mountains present hiking opportunities for nature lovers.
The Road to South Pasadena
The scenic route to South Pasadena on Orange Grove Boulevard passes through a stretch once known as Millionaire’s Row. Some splendid homes remain, including
G R E AT F I N D
the former Wrigley Mansion (Tournament House) that now houses the Tournament of Roses Association. North of Old Pasadena, the boulevard leads to the Gamble House. This, the most famous achievement of architects Greene and Greene, is a classic representation of the Arts and Crafts movement that left its imprint on Pasadena. South Pasadena is a tranquil community whose Craftsman homes range from bungalows to mansions, and its Mission West Historic District is lined with antique shops, art galleries, casual cafés and kid-friendly spots like Fair Oaks Pharmacy, a restored drugstore from 1915 whose vintage soda fountain is straight from a Norman Rockwell painting.
Eagle Rock + Glendale
West of Pasadena is Eagle Rock, a quiet college town reinventing itself as a trendy L.A. neighborhood. Its main drag of Colorado Boulevard is lined with a diverse collection of restaurants including Casa Bianca, a ven-
/ neon-light district
➺ Across from the Americana at Brand, an eclectic, electric draw beckons, at once
visible by the neon sign of a diver perched atop the building. The spot is the newest home of the Museum of Neon Art, the world’s only museum dedicated exclusively to art in electric media. It’s been displaying historic neon and teaching about the science behind the glowing lights for over three decades—previously residing in Universal CityWalk and downtown. The boutique museum consists of a main gallery, a gift shop and a classroom due to open soon, where visitors can see neon being made and take hands-on classes. Need more neon? MONA also offers nighttime Neon Cruises, which take sign lovers on a bus tour of the city’s most iconic examples of neon art. 216 S. Brand Blvd., Glendale, 818.696.2149, neonmona.org —G.G.
FROM TOP: MATT HARTMAN; ADRIENE BIONDO
The Americana at Brand in Glendale
erable old-school pizza joint. In Eagle Rock, students from highly ranked Occidental College—where a young Barack Obama once studied—mingle with young couples who are snapping up hillside real estate. On the far side of Eagle Rock is Glendale, the third-largest city in Los Angeles County. There, office workers pour out of high-rises for happy hour at The Americana at Brand, an open-air shopping, residential and entertainment development. Style-savvy shoppers can browse at boutiques, catch a movie or recharge at the Americana’s restaurants, which include the Philippe Starck-designed Katsuya and celebrity chef Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak. Home to a large Armenian community, Glendale offers a wealth of ethnic eateries specializing in kebabs, shawarma and belly dancing. Marked by a towering neon obelisk is the Alex Theatre, a restored art deco masterpiece that hosts concerts and musicals. Steps from the Alex is the new Museum of Neon Art, dedicated to showcasing a quintessentially L.A. craft. North of Glendale is Montrose, whose main street of Honolulu Avenue is more Mayberry than L.A. Close by, in La Cañada Flintridge, is sprawling Descanso Gardens, with North America’s largest camellia collection—an awesome sight when in full bloom during January and February. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see page 102.
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OPBD-0
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 independent boutiques, exclusive retailers, sidewalk cafes, and fine restaurants in this authentic main street experience.
Shopping is fun at this high-end designer resale store, offering the best of recent and vintage Chanel, Vuitton, Prada and more!
Clothes Heaven 111 E. Union Street 626.440.0929 clothesheaven.com
Visit or shop online at this artful living boutique that offers a mix of unique new and vintage furniture, home furnishings and gifts.
Retro fun for all ages! 50+ classic arcade and pinball machines. Hourly admission. All games set to “Free Play.� Game NOT over!
A full service tearoom, florist and gift shop. Serving Old Pasadena for 22 years.
Maude Woods
Neon Retro Arcade
Tea Rose Garden
55 E. Holly Street 626.577.3400 maudewoods.com
28 S. Raymond Ave. 626.568.2924 neonretroarcade.com
70 N. Raymond Ave. 626.578.1144 tearosegarden.com
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EXPLORING
The Valley HOLLYWOOD MIGHT BE THE SPIRITUAL CENTER OF THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY, BUT THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY, AKA “THE OTHER SIDE OF THE HILL,” IS WHERE MOVIEMAKING MAGIC HAPPENS.
➺
Universal City
A couple of Metro stops north of the heart of Hollywood is Universal City, a major entertainment-industry outpost. The highlight is Universal Studios Hollywood, which offers a behind-the-scenes peek into moviemaking, plus a theme park with rollicking roller coasters and high-tech virtual-reality action rides. The brand-new Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction is all the buzz; also thrilling are the Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem attraction and the Simpsons Ride and its adjacent Springfieldthemed “world.” Splurge for Universal’s VIP Experience, which pampers its guests with such perks as private tour guides, exclusive backlot access and unlimited front-of-line access in the theme park. Among the wide-ranging attractions next door at pedestrian-only Universal CityWalk are skydiving simulations at iFly Hollywood and mechanical bull riding at Saddle Ranch Chop House. Restaurants include new Blaze Pizza, Smashburger and chef Ludo Lefebvre’s LudoBird, and stores such as Lush Cosmetics and Skechers will loosen your wallet.
Burbank
Burbank calls itself the “media capital of the world”—and with good reason. This cosmopolitan city is home to some of the most famous players in the entertainment business, including Walt Disney Studios, Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon Animation Studio. Get a taste of the action on a Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood or as part of the studio audience at a taping of one of your favorite programs, such as The Ellen DeGeneres Show. The media district, which encompasses most of these companies, also boasts some newer cafés and dining destinations, including Coffee Commissary and Simmzy’s, as well as the iconic Bob’s Big Boy, which hosts a classic-car show every Friday. As vibrant as it is, Burbank’s entertainment industry is hardly the city’s only draw. More than 160 restaurants and shops cater to locals and visitors alike. The downtown district offers a major-mall shopping experience, movie theaters and the ever-popular Ikea, but surrounding streets, such as historic San Fernando Boulevard, have a more homegrown feel, with nightlife destinations, shops and trendy bistros such as Granville
Cafe. Another must-visit district is hip Magnolia Park, centered at Magnolia Boulevard and Hollywood Way, which offers indie cafés, antique shops and the area’s best retro and vintage boutiques (Playclothes and Pinup Girl are favorites). Always-packed Porto’s Bakery—one of the country’s top restaurants, according to Yelp—offers excellent pastries and sandwiches from Europe and the owners’ native Cuba. Do you like the outdoors? Burbank is a gateway to the Verdugo Mountains, which are crisscrossed with hiking trails. A workout here is rewarded with spectacular views of Burbank, the Hollywood Hills and downtown L.A. For golf enthusiasts, DeBell Golf Club features regulation 18-hole and par-3 courses. And during the summer, outdoor amphitheater the Starlight Bowl hosts a music series. If you’re jetting into or out of L.A., you can escape the hassles of LAX by opting for Burbank’s uncongested Bob Hope Airport. It offers nonstop flights to many cities across the country and is centrally located, with easy access to Hollywood, downtown L.A. and the San Gabriel Valley.
FROM LEFT: EDWIN SANTIAGO; DALE BERMAN. OPPOSITE: DAVE LAURIDSEN
The Valley is a sprawling collection of communities, each with its own attractions and charms. Immortalized in movies as diverse as Chinatown and Valley Girl, the area derives its name from Mission San Fernando Rey de España, the historic landmark on the Valley’s northernmost edge.
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The Federal Bar in North Hollywood. Opposite, from left: Universal CityWalk in Universal City; a dessert from renowned Porto’s Bakery in Burbank
NEW IN TOWN
Emphatic/Girl by Dee Rocco
Find this dual highend women’s boutique at the Village at Westfield Topanga. 6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Canoga Park, 747.226.3335
Salt & Straw
The Valley’s influx of ice-cream shops continues with this Portland, Oregon, import known for its inventive flavors. 12180 1/2 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.358.2890
Vince
The minimalist-cool clothing line is now selling its sleek essentials at the Promenade at Westlake. 4000 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Suite A, Westlake Village, 323.603.4210
North Hollywood
North Hollywood wasn’t much of a tourist destination until the community transformed its commercial core into the NoHo Arts District, now filled with nearly two dozen professional theaters, including the landmark El Portal Theatre. These venues present some of the most innovative stage performances in L.A., and neighboring dance studios and art galleries contribute to the scene. With restaurants like the Federal Bar, a lively gastropub with a full calendar of music and comedy, and Idle Hour, a hot newer bar in a barrel-shaped landmark building from the 1940s, the momentum continues for this transit-linked urban village. From NoHo’s Metro station, you can access central Hollywood and downtown via the Red Line subway or board the Orange Line, a sleek express bus that traverses the entire San Fernando Valley.
Ventura Boulevard
This iconic, palm-lined boulevard stretches 20 miles across the San Fernando Valley. Immortalized in music by Frank Zappa and
Tom Petty, the boulevard is an integral part of L.A. culture and home to a burgeoning dining scene. In Studio City, it’s lined with eateries, including entertainment-industry-favored Art’s Deli, new favorite the Bellwether and a greater concentration of acclaimed sushi bars (such as Asanebo) than Little Tokyo claims. For shopping, there are charming boutiques, including Dari and Voyage et Cie, and beauty retreats such as Face Haus facial bar. Hip bars and restaurants including Firefly have helped to launch a nightlife scene. Farther west, as the boulevard winds its way through Sherman Oaks, you’ll encounter laid-back trattorias and bistros, as well as shops such as Abundance, a boutique showcasing plus-size designer fashions. Sherman Oaks is also home to Westfield Fashion Square, anchored by Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s and featuring upscale boutiques. Sherman Oaks Galleria is near the junction of the 405 and 101 freeways; draws include ArcLight Cinemas, where there’s a chance you’ll see famous faces drawn to the Valley by its familyoriented lifestyle.
Deep in the Valley
Westfield Topanga shopping center is loaded with exclusive designer boutiques, including Louis Vuitton and David Yurman. The Village lifestyle destination opened last fall, expanding the center’s retail and dining options. Farther west off the Ventura Freeway (U.S. 101) is Calabasas, where celebrities move for more elbow room. Upscale shopping and casual eateries live at the Commons at Calabasas, an elegant openair destination. A few exits beyond that is Westlake Village, where locals hit the luxurious spa or do lunch at the Four Seasons. Visitors to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in neighboring Simi Valley can step aboard an actual Air Force One, visit a full-size replica of the White House Oval Office and learn all about America’s 40th president. North on the Golden State Freeway (I-5) in Valencia, coaster enthusiasts gather at Six Flags Magic Mountain for rides too wild for Disneyland. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see page 102.
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EXPLORING
South Bay
➺In the South Bay, the cities of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach occupy an idyllic
coastal stretch renowned for surfing and volleyball. To the north is El Segundo; to the south are the beautiful bluffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and the bustling waterfronts of San Pedro and Long Beach.
Manhattan Beach
Nineteen miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach boasts 2 miles of beaches with sand so fine that developers from Waikiki Beach in Honolulu imported it in the 1920s. This laid-back city is home to many professional athletes: You may spot an L.A. Kings player as you walk along the Strand, the pedestrian promenade sandwiched between multimillion-dollar homes and the beachfront bike trail. At the end of the city’s picturesque pier, the Roundhouse Aquarium delights with touch tanks. The pier features plaques commemorating winners of the Manhattan Beach Open—the South Bay is die-hard beach-volleyball country. It’s also a playground for water-sports enthusiasts, including bodyboarders and surfers. East of the pier along Manhattan Beach Boulevard and Manhattan Avenue are chic boutiques and a burgeoning dining scene, with restaurants such as The Arthur J, Love & Salt, Little Sister and The Strand House drawing gourmets from across L.A. The Metlox center is a popular gathering spot, with shops such as the Beehive and hot spots including Zinc at the Shade Hotel.
Hermosa Beach
Heading south on Manhattan Avenue brings you to Pier Avenue, the heart of Hermosa Beach. Hermosa shares many characteristics with Manhattan Beach, including a scenic 2-mile stretch of beachfront punctuated by volleyball nets, fitness buffs weaving along the Strand (here merged with the bike path) and a pier studded with bronze plaques commemorating surfing legends. Come late afternoon, the pedestrian plaza at Pier Avenue west of Hermosa Avenue becomes a different kind of South Bay scene, thanks to spillover from packed bars and restaurants such as Hennessey’s and Killer Shrimp. Beyond Pier Plaza, on Hermosa Avenue, Jay Leno still draws crowds to the Comedy & Magic Club with Sunday-night shows. To the plaza’s east, café/boutique Gum Tree and Steak & Whisky are standouts among the specialty shops and eateries that line Pier Avenue. Farther east, Becker’s carries surfboards and beachwear.
Redondo Beach
The largest of L.A. County’s beach cities, Redondo Beach is home to the 1,457-seat
Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center and a recreational waterfront featuring 2 miles of sandy beaches, the popular Redondo Beach Pier and King Harbor. Sepulveda Boulevard becomes Pacific Coast Highway as it enters town; signs point west to King Harbor’s Redondo Beach Marina, one of four marinas in the harbor. Here you find businesses such as Redondo Sportfishing offering fishing excursions and whale-watching tours, while other local outfitters rent out kayaks, paddleboats, bicycles and wave runners. South of the harbor, the historic Redondo Beach Pier has had its ups and downs, but it keeps rising from the ashes to attract locals and visitors to quick-andcasual eateries, amusements and souvenir shops. South of the pier, the gentle waves and somewhat narrow strip of Redondo State Beach draw crowds during the summer, while the bike path meanders by on its way to its terminus at Torrance State Beach. One block east of the beach, the Riviera Village shopping district has a small-town feel, with restaurants and specialty boutiques such as Cami and the Catalina Cooking Store covering a six-block radius.
FROM LEFT: COURTESY HERMOSA BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND VISITORS BUREAU; COURTESY FISHING WITH DYNAMITE. OPPOSITE: EDWIN SANTIAGO
THE SOUTH BAY’S BEACHES AND HARBORS ARE ACTION-PACKED, BUT THE LIVING IS EASY. LOOK FOR OCEAN-VIEW DINING, MOM-AND-POP SHOPS AND SEASIDE ATTRACTIONS.
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NEW IN TOWN
Baran’s 2239
This California-casual spot offers craft beer and an ambitious menu from chef Tyler Gugliotta (the Tasting Kitchen). 502 Pacific Coast Hwy., Hermosa Beach, 424.247.8468
Kendra Scott
The jeweler opens a shop at the Point, selling her beloved natural-stone designs. 830 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 114, El Segundo, 424.277.3700
Sol Cocina
Indulge in Baja cuisine and tequila at this upscale Mexicanrestaurant chain’s third location. 12775 W. Millennium Drive, Suite 160, Playa Vista, 424.289.0066
The Queen Mary in Long Beach. Opposite, from left: Hermosa Beach Pier; Fishing With Dynamite in Manhattan Beach
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Among Long Beach’s most popular draws is the 1,020-foot-long Queen Mary, a historic, supposedly haunted ship-turned-hotel. Long Beach
Palos Verdes Peninsula
Beyond Redondo Beach rises the Palos Verdes Peninsula, a rugged 26-square-mile area known for majestic bluffs that afford sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Catalina Island. Head a few miles inland via Palos Verdes Drive North to the 87-acre South Coast Botanic Garden, a yearround attraction boasting 200,000 plants. Or hug the coast on Palos Verdes Drive West to Rancho Palos Verdes’ Point Vicente Interpretive Center, a popular gray-whalewatching site. Just beyond the adjacent Point Vicente lighthouse is the Mediterraneanstyle Terranea Resort, which offers fine dining, a 50,000-square-foot oceanfront spa and a public nine-hole golf course. Farther along is the Wayfarers Chapel, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright’s son Lloyd Wright. The impressive Swedenborgian “glass church” is a popular wedding venue. The nearby 18-hole public course at Trump National Golf Club is top-ranked.
G R E AT F I N D
San Pedro
The multicultural community of San Pedro, on the southeastern side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, was once the largest commercial fishing port in the nation. Today it’s home to the bustling 7,500-acre Port of Los Angeles, which features passenger and cargo terminals, as well as a crafts marketplace and new brewery Brouwerij West. Catalina Express operates from Berth 95, offering daily boat service to Catalina’s quaint city of Avalon and rustic village of Two Harbors. More than a million travelers pass through the World Cruise Center (Berths 91-93) annually; adjacent to the complex is the battleship-turnedmuseum USS Iowa. The New England-style Ports O’ Call Village offers waterfront restaurants and shops, and beyond it is the marina, part of the Cabrillo Beach Recreational Complex. The complex also includes the Frank Gehry-designed Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and Cabrillo Beach—one of the county’s most popular windsurfing spots.
/ design minded
➺ A few blocks from the Strand, in a quiet corner of Hermosa Beach, is a showroom to rival any you might find on L.A.’s well-trodden design paths—or Stockholm’s, for that matter. Hermosa Design is the brainchild of Steve and Farnaz Reneker, South Bay locals and owners of Studio Argente architecture + design. Inside their airy studio and warehouse, you’ll find furniture and accessories that reflect the duo’s dual love of contemporary beach living and Scandinavian-inspired modern design (e.g., colorful multiuse Japanese buckets, durable Skargaarden teak outdoor furniture and streamlined Design House Stockholm glassware). Plan to stay awhile; rotating photography exhibitions and fun events make the space a social, as well as a design, hub. 618 Cypress Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.374.4300, hermosa-design.com —S.E.
FROM TOP: EDWIN SANTIAGO; JILL PAIDER
The horseshoe-shaped pier in Redondo Beach
In the county’s southwest corner, Long Beach boasts a busy commercial port, an attraction-packed waterfront and more than 5 miles of beaches. A popular draw is the 1,020-foot-long Queen Mary, a historic, supposedly haunted ship-turned-hotel, dining and shopping attraction permanently moored in Long Beach Harbor. The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, The Pike Outlets, the Aquarium of the Pacific and Shoreline Village are nearby. From the village, you can follow the Shoreline pedestrian bike path 3.1 miles, past the Long Beach Museum of Art and into the Belmont Shore neighborhood. Here you’ll find shops and restaurants along 2nd Street, Bay Shore Beach, the Belmont Pier and windsurfing and kite-surfing lessons. Across a small channel is Naples, where you can take gondola rides through the canals and dine at restaurants such as Michael’s on Naples. Downtown, along 4th Street between Junipero and Cherry avenues, vintagefurniture and clothing shops make up funky “Retro Row.” In the emergent East Village Arts District, hip galleries and boutiques are sprouting where Linden Avenue meets Broadway. Farther east, an impressive collection of modern and contemporary works decks the walls of the Museum of Latin American Art. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see page 101.
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Hermosa Beach, California
With 200 plus fashionable boutiques, unique shops and eclectic restaurants sprinkled beneath sunny skies along a pristine coastline, Hermosa Beach epitomizes the Southern California lifestyle. Come spend a day at the ocean in California’s most beautiful beach town, just five miles south of LAX. Create a “Truly Hermosa” experience.
visit trulyhermosa.com #trulyhermosa
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L.A.’S PREMIER RESTAURANTS INNOVATIVE DINING GROUP
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$3-5 HAPPY HOUR DAILY
8439 W. Sunset Blvd.
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“Super creative, extraordinary sushi.” – ZAGAT
West Hollywood
innovativedining.com
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where
the guide M USEUM S
The Artists’ Way
COURTESY STREMMEL GALLERY, RENO/PHOTO BY BRIAN FORREST
The Hammer Museum’s Made in L.A. 2016: a, the, though, only (June 12-Aug. 28) is the third iteration of its biennial exhibition spotlighting the practices of artists in Greater Los Angeles. Working in such varied disciplines as dance, fashion, music and film, artists featured this year include Kenzi Shiokava, whose sculptures are pictured here, and minimalist poet and writer Aram Saroyan, who contributed the show’s subtitle. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 310.443.7000, hammer.ucla.edu
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THE GUIDE | DINING
ABIGAILE A venture of Blackhouse Hospitality (Little Sister, Steak & Whisky, Día de Campo), this funky, graffitimuraled American brasserie with rooftop bar is lots of fun. Executive chef Tin Vuong presents escargot “poppers” washed down with house-brewed beer. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1301 Manhattan Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.798.8227 $$ Map L13 ANIMAL Bare-bones eatery, from the guys known to Food Network fans as the “Two Dudes,” is a carnivore’s dream. Dishes include delectable takes on offal (such as crispy pig’s ear) and a bacon-chocolate-crunch bar for dessert. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 435 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.782.9225 $$$ Map I13 AREAL Community restaurant serves locally grown, sustainable food paired with cocktails crafted from organic, fresh produce. The daily happy hour is a draw, as is the pleasant, dog-friendly patio. L (Tu-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2820 Main St., Santa Monica, 310.392.1661 $$ Map M9
Stay In, Dine Out There’s no reason to leave the hotel if you want to check out one of L.A.’s newest outdoor wining-and-dining destinations. Beverly Hills boasts three: the intimate patio at the refreshed Viceroy L’Ermitage Beverly Hills’ sexy new restaurant, Avec Nous (p. 68); the crisp Terrace at the Peninsula’s revamped The Belvedere (p. 71); and stylish Viviane, poolside at the Avalon Hotel (p. 66). And Georgie and the Garden Bar, with covered patios overlooking Beverly Canon Gardens, are due to open at the Montage in June. In Hollywood, the debut of the rooftop at Mama Shelter (p. 72; pictured above), which boasts one of the best views in town, comes just in time for sultry summer evenings. Cue that old song: You can check in anytime you like at L.A. hotels, but with dining options like these, you may never leave.
BIRCH Cahuenga Corridor spot from chef Brendan Collins serves a seasonally driven menu (try the rabbit baklava with dates, white beans, pistachio and carrots) in a whitewashed, clean-lined space. D (nightly), Sunday roast noon-4 pm. 1634 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, 323.960.3369 $$$ Map H13 THE CHURCH KEY With off-menu items rolled table to table, this trendy spot has adopted the charm and spontaneity of dim sum. Signature dishes include the tapiocacrusted tai snapper. Mixologists dressed as Pan Am flight attendants steer airline food carts loaded with liquid-nitro cocktails. D (M-Sa), Br (Sa-Su). 8730 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.249.3700 $$ Map H12 CLAIM JUMPER Saloon-style eatery features grill fare and its own label of craft beer. L (varies by location), D (nightly), Br (varies by location). 3500 W. Olive Ave., Burbank, 818.260.0505; 820 W. Huntington Drive, Monrovia, 626.359.0463; 9429 Tampa Ave., Northridge, 818.718.2882; 25740 The Old Road, Valencia, 661.254.2628; 6501 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach, 562.431.1321 $ Map T22, Q23, north of A1 (2), D4 CLIFTON’S This kitschy downtown cafeteria, which dates to the 1930s, recently reopened after a multimillion-dollar renovation. The multiple-story eatery offers old-school cuisine like a roast-meat-carving station and Jell-O for dessert, as well as a craft-beer bar, all with woodland ambiance. L, D (daily). 648 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.627.1673, cliftonsla.com $$ Map I16 CRAFT New York chef Tom Colicchio of TV’s Top Chef brings his signature concept to L.A. The restaurant delivers an endless, contemporary-American à la carte menu, with fun, shareable dishes including roasted octopus and diver scallops with vermouth butter. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 10100 Constellation Blvd., L.A., 310.279.4180 $$$$ Map K11 FREDS AT BARNEYS Inside Beverly Hills retail destination Barneys New York, the first West Coast outpost of the retailer’s signature restaurant is a go-to for brunch, power lunches, shopping breaks and happy hour. Try the robiolawith-truffle-oil pizza. L (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 9570 Wilshire Blvd., fifth floor, Beverly Hills, 310.777.5877 $$$ Map J11 INDEPENDENCE This bright, friendly tavern in downtown Santa Monica pays homage to the Los Angeles & Independence Railroad, which connected downtown L.A. with what is now the Santa Monica Pier back in 1875. The restaurant’s casual setting belies its refined New American cuisine that includes a kale chopped salad. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 205 Broadway, Santa Monica, 310.458.2500 $$$ Map L8
guidelines
Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps in the back of this issue. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
index American..............................64 Japanese................................70 Breweries/Gastropubs....65 Mediterranean..................... 71 British/Irish..........................65 Mexican/Latin.................... 72 California...............................66 Pan-Asian.............................. 73 Chinese..................................66 Seafood.................................. 74 Eclectic/Fusion................... 67 Spanish.................................. 74 French.....................................68 Steak....................................... 74 Italian......................................68 Thai.......................................... 75
INK. Top Chef winner Michael Voltaggio showcases daring molecular gastronomy at his first restaurant. Explore the constantly changing à la carte small plates. D (nightly). 8360 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.651.5866 $$$ Map I12 JOAN’S ON THIRD Celebrity-frequented café on busy West 3rd Street, as well as a new location in the Valley, offers omelets, sandwiches, salads, soups and sweets, plus picnic baskets, gourmet items. B, L, D (daily). 8350 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.655.2285; 12059 Ventura Place, Studio City, 818.201.3900 $ Map I12, T18 LEDLOW The newest restaurant from chef Josef Centeno, who rules downtown’s Old Bank District (Bäco Mercat, Bar Amá, Orsa & Winston), offers twists on classic bistro dishes, American favorites and diverse cultural staples (e.g., brioche French toast and chicken schnitzel). B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 400 S. Main St., downtown, 213.687.7000 $$ Map I17 M.B. POST Chef David LeFevre serves small plates of seafood, fresh-baked breads, cured meats and more in the space of a former post office. The “Eat Your Vegetables” menu makes green beans and Brussels sprouts look tantalizing. L (F-Su), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1142 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5405 $$$ Map L13 ODYS + PENELOPE Churrasco and grill features a live-fire grill and wood-fired smoker. Eclectic, flavorful cuisine is accompanied by a menu of craft beer, wine and handcrafted cocktails. Vegan, vegetarian and glutenfree options also available. D (nightly). 127 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.939.1033 $$$ Map B2 OX & SON Farm-to-table restaurant and wine/cocktail bar from the FNA Hospitality Group (Art’s Table, Ashland Hill, OP Cafe) is a fitting addition to charming Montana Avenue. Creative comfort-food menu includes items like handmade cavatelli and Angus tomahawk chop, plus gluten-free options. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1534 Montana Ave., Santa Monica, 310.829.3990 $$$ Map K8 PLAN CHECK KITCHEN + BAR Growing minichain offers contemporary takes on American classics, complemented with craft beers and premium whiskeys. Try the acclaimed Plan Check Burger, topped with dashi cheese and ketchup leather. L, D (daily). 1800 Sawtelle Blvd., L.A., 310.444.1411; 351 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.591.0094; 1111 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.403.1616 $$ Map K9, I12, H16 REDBIRD Chef Neal Fraser’s contemporary American cuisine is offered in the rectory of the former Cathedral of St. Vibiana. Rack of red wattle pork and chicken potpie are part of an intriguing menu. An updated Spanish
Suzanne Goin of Lucques (p. 72), A.O.C. (p. 71), Tavern (p. 66) and, now, the Hollywood Bowl’s culinary program won the Outstanding Chef prize at this year’s James Beard awards.
COURTESY MAMA SHELTER
American
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DINING baroque decor and retro-inspired cocktails complete the scene. L (Tu-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 114 E. 2nd St., downtown, 213.788.1191 $$$ Map H17 SADDLE PEAK LODGE Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, this elegant hunt-lodge-themed spot is a study in romantic rusticity, with moose heads overlooking candlelit tables. The menu focuses on game dishes such as grilled New Zealand elk tenderloin or pan-roasted Australian kangaroo sirloin. D (nightly), Br (Su). 419 Cold Canyon Road, Calabasas, 818.222.3888 $$$$ Map northwest of A1 SALT CREEK GRILLE Enjoy mesquite-grilled burgers, chops, steaks, seafood and an interesting selection of California beers and wines at these classic American restaurants, which boast outdoor patios and live music. El Segundo: L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Valencia: L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 2015 E. Park Place, El Segundo, 310.335.9288; 24415 Town Center Drive, Suite 115, Valencia, 661.222.9999 $$ Map L14, north of A2
Wine Spectator Award of Excellence
LOS ANGELES | NEWPORT BEACH at FASHION ISLAND | SANTA MONICA
La Jolla
COMING SOON
www.redorestaurant.com
THE STRAND HOUSE This beachside restaurant boasts awesome ocean and pier views and a breezy, stylish bar that draws a lively but sophisticated crowd. Executive chef Greg Hozinsky’s menu includes such starters as foie gras and charcuterie, which might be followed by branzino with black-truffle risotto. Don’t miss pastry chef Stephanie Franz’s doughnuts! L (Tu-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.7470 $$$ Map L13
Breweries/Gastropubs ASHLAND HILL Casual craft-beer and wine garden from the restaurant group behind Ox & Son features a rotating selection of small-batch artisanal and “super-local” drafts and craft wines. Dine on creative bar bites in the cool taproom, or dig into Niman Ranch pork-belly tacos on the garden patio. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2807 Main St., Santa Monica, 310.392.3300 $$ Map M9 FATHER’S OFFICE Microbrew mecca; one of L.A.’s best burgers. Santa Monica: L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). Culver City: L (F-Su), D (nightly). 1018 Montana Ave., Santa Monica; 3229 Helms Ave., Culver City, 310.736.2224 $$ Map L8, L11 PUBLIC KITCHEN & BAR Refined menu offers elevated versions of classic dishes; bar serves cured meats, cheeses and fresh cocktails. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, 7000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.769.8888 $$$ Map G13 SIMMZY’S Popular pub with locations in Manhattan Beach, Long Beach, Burbank and just off the Venice pier. The newer locations share the Manhattan Beach original’s friendly vibe and wide selection of craft beers (many locally brewed), hearty burgers (try the classic Simmzy’s), sandwiches, salads and other fresh fare. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 3000 W. Olive Ave., Burbank, 818.962.2500; 5271 E. 2nd St., Long Beach, 562.439.5590; 229 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.546.1201; 37 Washington Blvd., Venice, 424.835.6580 $ Map T20, O17, L13, N9
British/Irish TEA ROSE GARDEN This whimsical, English-garden tearoom, an Old Pasadena fixture for 20 years, serves traditional fare including scones, finger sandwiches and salads sprinkled with flower petals. A florist and boutique selling tea trays and loose-leaf teas are also onsite. B, L, Br (daily). 70 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena, 626.578.1144 $$ Map Q20 YE OLDE KING’S HEAD Cozy pub/restaurant with traditional English fare, including acclaimed fish and chips. B, L, D (daily); high tea (M-Sa). 116 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.451.1402 $ Map L8
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DINING
California Cuisine 208 RODEO This gem of a café sits above Via Rodeo’s cobblestone street, offering all-day California cuisine with pan-Asian and French influences. Dishes include Kobe burgers, seafood salad and penne arrabbiata. B, L, D (daily). Two Rodeo, 208 Via Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.275.2428 $$ Map J11 CAVATINA Esteemed East Coast chef Michael Schlow’s first L.A. restaurant serves simple, local, delicious cuisine inside the rock ‘n’ roll-steeped Sunset Marquis hotel. Don’t miss Schlow’s award-winning burger. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1200 Alta Loma Road, West Hollywood, 310.358.3759 $$$ Map H12 CHAYA The original Chaya in Japan remains open after nearly 400 years, and Chaya’s popularity continues to endure in Los Angeles. The Japanese-Californian menus feature modern izakaya dishes in addition to fresh seafood from local waters and Kyushu, Japan. L (M-F), D (nightly). 525 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.236.9577; 110 Navy St., Venice, 310.396.1179 $$ Map H16, M8 COMMISSARY Buzzworthy poolside eatery from Roy Choi serves farm-to-table dishes in a greenhouselike setting. Emphasis on fruit- and vegetable-themed dishes and drinks makes it very vegetarian- and veganfriendly, but you’ll find a few meaty dishes on the menu as well. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). The Line Hotel, secondfloor greenhouse, 3515 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 213.368.3030 $$ Map J14 FIG RESTAURANT Dine on a seasonal menu of bistro fare at this restaurant inside the Fairmont Miramar; charcuterie and cheese bar open at dinnertime. Sunday brunch features the virtuous, as well as the decadent, plus creative cocktails. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Fairmont Miramar Hotel, 101 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.319.3111 $$ Map L8 THE FRONT YARD The culmination of a rehabilitation project at the Garland hotel, this restaurant features fresh farm-to-table cuisine from chef Chris Turano. Start your meal with chive flatbread topped with chimichurri butter, then move onto entrées like Mary’s Chicken and cauliflower steak. Or enjoy a leisurely brunch and cocktails on the lush patio. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 4222 Vineland Ave., North Hollywood, 818.255.7290 $$ Map U19
MAUDE Celebrity chef Curtis Stone, an Aussie with a strong classical background, helms this intimate, 25-seat Beverly Hills restaurant named after his grandmother. Every month a different seasonal ingredient is showcased and artfully presented in a nine-course menu. D (Tu-Sa). 212 S. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.859.3418 $$$$ Map J11 MILO & OLIVE The husband-and-wife team from Rustic Canyon is behind this casual pizzeria and bakery. Zoe Nathan’s desserts and pastries shouldn’t be missed. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2723 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.453.6776 $$ Map K9 PLANT FOOD AND WINE Restaurant from Matthew Kenney takes a raw, locally sourced and plant-based approach to dining. Indoor and outdoor seating, with a patio sheltered by olive trees and complete with a garden of fruits, herbs and edible flowers. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from an extensive organic and biodynamic selection. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1009 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1009 $$$ Map N9 PUMP Enchanted-garden-themed restaurant and bar from restaurateur and Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Lisa Vanderpump features a patio with 100-year-old olive trees and a menu created by Food Network Star finalist Penny Davidi. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8948 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.657.7867 $$ Map I12 RUSTIC CANYON Discover boutique wines while sampling small plates of market-driven, Mediterraneaninspired fare. Clam pozole is just one of the winners. Hide in a cozy booth or mingle at the communal table. D (nightly). 1119 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.393.7050 $$$ Map L8 SPAGO An L.A. institution, Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant features a modern dining room and a daily changing menu that may include dishes like veal “Wiener schnitzel” and spicy tuna tartare. Glimpse some of the 30,000 wine bottles on offer in a glass-ensconced “wine wall.” L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly). 176 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.385.0880 $$$$ Map I11 THE TASTING KITCHEN Foodies come for the daily changing menu of innovative yet unpretentious cuisine from culinary-darling chef Casey Lane: small or large plates of cured meats, artisan cheeses, vegetables, seafood and pastas. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1633 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.392.6644 $$$ Map M9
GIRASOL Chef CJ Jacobson, a former Top Chef contestant, forages for fresh, exotic ingredients in the Santa Monica Mountains to incorporate into an inventive California menu (e.g., hamachi with white fir and wild sorrel, whole crispy red snapper with chili-kumquat sauce). The restaurant, decorated like a giant sunflower (girasol, in Spanish), is part of a Studio City dining renaissance. D (nightly), Br (Su). 11334 Moorpark St., Studio City, 818.924.2323 $$$ Map U19
TAVERN Chef Suzanne Goin’s third L.A. restaurant explores rustic Cal-Med fare in chic environs, including a popular sunlit indoor patio. The frequently changing menu might include “devil’s chicken” with leeks and mustard breadcrumbs. B (M-F), L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 11648 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.806.6464 $$$ Map J9
HINOKI & THE BIRD Inside luxury residential tower the Century, taste Japanese and Southeast Asian flavors in such dishes as lobster rolls with green curry and Thai basil, and black cod scented with the smoke of the namesake hinoki wood. L (M-F), D (Tu-Sa). 10 W. Century Drive, Century City, 310.552.1200 $$$ Map J10
TERRINE Comfortable, elevated California brasserie fare (e.g., moules frites) from chef Kris Morningstar, restaurateur Stephane Bombet and managing partner/ wine director Francois Renaud. The patio, which is dominated by a magnificent tree and dotted with sparkling lights, is as romantic as they come. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 8265 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.746.5130 $$$ Map I12
LEONA Top Chef and Knife Fight alum chef Nyesha Arrington serves upscale, seasonally driven “progressive California cuisine” (bulgogi-braised short rib; coctel mixto) a few blocks east of the Venice Pier. Don’t miss her burger—one of the city’s best—or freshly baked cookies served from a takeout window. L (M-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 123 W. Washington Blvd., Venice, 310.822.5379 $$$ Map N9 LOVE & SALT Dine on creative Cal-Italian fare (e.g., duck-egg pizza and whole roasted pig head) in this buzzy South Bay spot. Chef de cuisine/pastry chef Rebecca Merhej’s desserts are divine. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 317 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5252 $$$ Map L13
VIVIANE The Avalon Hotel Beverly Hills’ swanky new poolside restaurant features a menu by chef Michael Hung (Faith & Flower), 1950s-inspired cocktails and a midcentury-modern design by Kelly Wearstler. California takes on European and American dishes include a beautiful salad of young lettuces. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 9400 W. Olympic Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.407.7791 $$$ Map J11
Chinese BAO DIM SUM Premier dim-sum restaurant serves delicious, authentic dim sum in a relaxing, lantern-lit
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DINING atmosphere. Favorites include juicy pork dumplings and shrimp shumai, followed by bao milk buns for dessert. L, D (daily). 8256 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.655.6556 $$ Map I12 DIN TAI FUNG Popular and critically acclaimed dumpling house, originally founded in Taiwan, has two locations in Arcadia and one in Glendale’s Americana at Brand. Foodies line up for soup dumplings with filling combinations such as pork and crab or truffle and pork. Vegetable dishes like cucumber salad and sautéed string beans are also favorites. L, D (daily). 177 Caruso Ave., Glendale, 818.551.5561; 1108 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, 626.574.7068; 1088 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, 626.446.8588 $$ Map U23, R23 (2) HOUSE OF MACAU Modern Chinese-fusion restaurant in the heart of Hollywood from entrepreneur and music mogul Manny Halley. D (Tu-Su). 1600 Vine St., L.A., 323.745.5038 $$ Map H14 MEIZHOU DONGPO Sichuan fare in ultramodern surroundings at Westfield Century City mall. L, D (daily). 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Century City, 310.788.0120 $$ Map J11
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MR CHOW The L.A. County editions of scene-y restaurants in New York and London offer Imperial Beijing cuisine. Beverly Hills: L (M-F), D (nightly). Malibu: D (nightly). 344 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.278.9911; Malibu Country Mart, 3835 Cross Creek Road, 18A, Malibu, 310.456.7600 $$$ Map I11, K7 ROC Chef Perry Cheung delighted Westside diners when he chose Little Osaka as the first home of ROC (it stands for Republic of China) and its xiao long bao. Popular menu items include a scallion pancake, three-cup chicken and, of course, elevated, made-fromscratch soup dumplings stuffed with pork and fresh crab. Additional locations are on West 3rd Street and in Playa Vista, with a Culver City outpost on the way. L, D (daily). 2049 Sawtelle Blvd., L.A., 310.235.2089 $$ Map K10 YANG CHOW Authentic, fine Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine and an elegant atmosphere have made this restaurant a Chinatown mainstay since the Yun family opened the spot in 1977. Don’t miss the lemon chicken or Slippery Shrimp, which have been featured on Food Network. Find additional locations in the Valley and Pasadena. L, D (daily). 819 N. Broadway, downtown, 213.625.0811; 6443 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Canoga Park, 818.347.2610; 3777 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.432.6868 $$ Map G17, west of A1, Q22
Eclectic/Fusion British Fare, imported beers and world famous Fish & Chips. Open for breakfast weekends at 8am, Fabulous happy hour Mon–Fri 4-7pm. Traditional Afternoon Tea is served Mon-Sat 11:30am-4:30pm. Karaoke Sundays at 9pm. Heated patio. Quiz shows every Wednesday. Call for soccer schedule. Stop by the gift shoppe for food and collectibles from the British Isles, including bone china, teapots, souvenir items, tea, candy, wine, freshly baked goods and much more.
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BÄCO MERCAT Chef Josef Centeno draws international praise for his inspired creations. The bäco, a flatbread sandwich, is his signature dish. Other selections include spicy hamachi crudo. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 408 S. Main St., downtown, 213.687.7000 $$ Map I16 CASSIA Part of restaurateurs Josh Loeb and Zoe Nathan’s burgeoning dining empire, this bustling Southeast Asian-inspired brasserie set inside a 1930s art deco building finds chef Bryant Ng (Spice Table) serving dishes like Vietnamese pot au feu and, on the new lunch menu, an updated version of Ng’s celebrated Spice Table burger. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1314 7th St., Santa Monica, 310.393.6699 $$$ Map L8 MAISON AKIRA Fine French cuisine with Japanese flair (such as a bento box with American wagyu beef, miso sea bass and chawan mushi) in Pasadena’s Playhouse District. Nine-course omakase available. L (F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Su). 713 E. Green St., Pasadena, 626.796.9501 $$$ Map Q20 ORSA & WINSTON Chef/owner Josef Centeno draws on Japanese and Italian traditions at his acclaimed third
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DINING restaurant. Select a vegetable, fish or meat grain bowl for lunch; for dinner, enjoy a daily changing six-course tasting menu with nightly supplements and an optional wine pairing. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa). 122 W. 4th St., downtown, 213.687.0300 $$$$ Map I16
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TROIS MEC The holy foodie trinity of Ludo Lefebvre (LudoBites), Vinny Dotolo and Jon Shook (Animal, Son of a Gun) is behind this hot restaurant in a 24-seat former pizzeria. Diners must purchase advance tickets via the restaurant’s website to enjoy Lefebvre’s prix-fixe, five-course meal. Newer French-bar-style spinoff, Petit Trois, is next door. D (M-F). 716 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, troismec.com $$$$ Map H13
French AVEC NOUS Contemporary French bistro where chef Olivier Quignon, previously at Bar Boulud in New York City, offers dishes inspired by the French Riviera, such as escargot; sea scallops with mushy broccoli, turmeric chermoula and squid-ink crisp; and whole oven-roasted cauliflower vadouvan curry, Marcona almond and goldenraisins puree, served tableside. Br, D (daily). Viceroy L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, 9291 Burton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.860.8660 $$$ Map J12 BOUCHON The Bouchon bistros from chef Thomas Keller (the French Laundry, Per Se) have become popular for their authentic good looks and superbly executed cuisine. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 235 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.271.9910 $$$ Map J11 KENDALL’S BRASSERIE Located at the Music Center, Kendall’s is a convenient spot for before or after a performance. In addition to dishes with a contemporary flair, all the brasserie favorites are here (e.g., moules frites). L (M-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.7322 $$ Map H16 THE LITTLE DOOR For a candlelit dinner in an elegant setting, this is the reservation ne plus ultra. Dine on rustic French-Mediterranean dishes under the stars or by a crackling fireplace. D (nightly), Br (SaSu). 8164 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.951.1210 $$$ Map I12 LITTLE NEXT DOOR The Little Door’s charming, casual extension serves modern French brasserie fare and boasts an in-house patisserie featuring viennoiserie, macarons and pastries. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 8142 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.951.1010 $$ Map I12 MÉLISSE At Mélisse, among L.A.’s highest-rated restaurants, chef/owner Josiah Citrin executes a sophisticated, modern French menu filled with luxe ingredients. Start with lobster bolognese with truffles before superb game dishes. D (Tu-Sa). 1104 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.395.0881 $$$$ Map M8 PATINA The Walt Disney Concert Hall pairs classicalmusic offerings with fine dining, thanks to its fine inhouse restaurant. Game dishes are a frequent presence on the menu. D (Tu-Su). 141 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.3331 $$$$ Map H16 RÉPUBLIQUE In a landmark once occupied by Charlie Chaplin’s studio, fine-dining veteran Walter Manzke and pastry-chef wife Margarita turn out bistro classics (e.g., escargots, duck confit and steak frites) for a trendy clientele huddling at communal tables. Café B, L (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Bistro D (nightly). 624 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 310.362.6115 $$$ Map I13
Italian ALIMENTO Zach Pollack, half of the talent behind acclaimed Sotto, is behind this tiny, hip space in Silver Lake, where a clever menu features addictive chickenliver crostone with quince mostarda, crudo and pastas. The chef’s contrarian take on tortellini en brodo features dumplings filled with a hot broth that explodes in your
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DINING mouth. Desserts include chocolate budino and almond polenta cake. D (Tu-Su). 1710 Silver Lake Blvd., Silver Lake, 323.928.2888 $$$ Map east of W23 BESTIA Multiregional Italian restaurant in the hip Arts District. The former executive chef at Angelini Osteria serves up such “beast”-focused dishes as roasted marrow bone with spinach gnocchetti, breadcrumbs and aged balsamic, and a selection of house-cured meats. D (nightly). 2121 E. 7th Place, downtown, 213.514.5724 $$$ Map east of J17 BOTTEGA LOUIE This palatial Italian restaurant, decked out in minimalist white marble, is a hip, noisy hall where young professionals convene over brick-ovencooked pizzas and share small plates of portobello fries and crab beignets. There’s a gourmet market and patisserie, too. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 700 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.802.1470 $$ Map I16 CECCONI’S This London-based restaurant caters to well-heeled clients who schmooze over bellinis and cicchetti (small plates). Pastas including a beautiful agnolotti del plin and seafood such as grilled octopus with capers are well-executed. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 8764 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 310.432.2000 $$$ Map I12
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CULINA 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 $$$ Map J12 DRAGO CENTRO Celestino Drago’s well-executed Italian fare and extensive wine list in a contemporary and handsome space. L (M-F), D (nightly). 525 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.228.8998 $$$ Map H16 THE FACTORY KITCHEN Former Valentino chef Angelo Auriana turns his attention to a casual, industrialchic setting in the Arts District. Fresh-made pastas, beautiful cheeses and cured meats, complemented by an inventive cocktail program, contribute to a daily changing menu. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1300 Factory Place, downtown, 213.996.6000 $$$ Map J17 IL FORNAIO Trattoria-style favorite. Beverly Hills: B, L, D (daily). Manhattan Beach: L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Pasadena: L, D (daily); Br (Su). 301 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.550.8330; 1800 Rosecrans Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.725.9555; 24 W. Union St., Pasadena, 626.683.9797 $$ Map J11, L13, Q19
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GUSTO Victor Casanova’s intimate neighborhood ristorante has a look and feel reminiscent of his native Bronx. Dishes such as polpette (pork meatballs) plated over chilled, whipped ricotta and fresh-made pastas deserve praise. D (nightly). 8432 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.1778 $$$ Map I13 JON & VINNY’S Family-friendly Italian diner from chefs/owners Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo has it all—pastries, pizza, pasta (made in-house) and meat entrées. Takeout and delivery are also available. B, L, D (daily). 412 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.334.3369 $$ Map B2 LOCANDA DEL LAGO Rustic family-owned restaurant overlooking Third Street Promenade. Michelinstarred chef Gianfranco Minuz turns out traditional northern Italian cuisine made with sustainable proteins and locally sourced ingredients. L, D (daily); Br (SaSu). 231 Arizona Ave., Santa Monica, 310.451.3525 $$ Map L8 MADDALENA Dining among the casks at San Antonio Winery; fresh pastas, seafood, paninis and more served with European hospitality. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 737 Lamar St., L.A., 323.223.1401 $$ Map G17
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DINING MATTEO’S An old favorite of the Rat Pack endures. Classic dishes include mussels in white wine and osso buco Milanese. D (Tu-Su). 2321 Westwood Blvd., L.A., 310.475.4521 $$ Map K10 OSTERIA MOZZA Famed L.A.-based bread maker Nancy Silverton teamed up with affable Mario Batali on Mozza’s duo of contemporary Italian restaurants. Osteria Mozza is a more sophisticated dining room in which to experience the repertoire of these great transcontinental talents. D (nightly). 6602 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.0100 $$$ Map H13
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PIZZERIA MOZZA/MOZZA2GO The more relaxed sibling of Nancy Silverton and Mario Batali’s Mozza, Pizzeria Mozza features pizzas with Mediterranean ingredients, cheeses and salumi plates and rustic daily specials. Call ahead for delivery or takeout from Mozza2Go. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Pizzeria Mozza: 641 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.297.0101; Mozza2Go: 6610 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.1130 $$ Map H13 RAO’S New York’s highly exclusive, family-owned eatery—a legendary celeb and mob hangout—goes Hollywood. Red-sauce specialties galore; the veal meatballs are a Rao’s signature. D (nightly). 1006 Seward St., Hollywood, 323.962.7267 $$$$ Map H13 SOTTO Beautifully executed rustic trattoria specialties and soft, chewy Neapolitan pizzas cooked in an eightton wood-burning oven. Intriguing house-made pastas might include squid-ink mafaldine with burrata and breadcrumbs. D (nightly). 9575 W. Pico Blvd., L.A., 310.277.0210 $$$ Map J11 TERRONI Southern Italian cooking including excellent thin-crust pizza. The downtown location inhabits a historic bank building. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 802 S. Spring St., downtown, 213.221.7234; 7605 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.954.0300 $$ Map I16, J13 VALENTINO For more than 30 years, Piero Selvaggio has maintained his flagship’s status as a pre-eminent temple of Italian gastronomy. A telephone-book-sized wine list—often cited as America’s best—is supported by a cellar containing more than 100,000 bottles. L (F), D (Tu-Sa). 3115 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.829.4313 $$$$ Map L9
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VILLA BLANCA Stylish white dining room and Asianaccented menu from reality star Lisa Vanderpump. L, D (daily). 9601 Brighton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.859.7600 $$$ Map J11
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Japanese ASANEBO Hidden in a strip mall but Michelin-rated, this cozy sushi bar and restaurant offers memorable sushi and inventive fare like seared toro and uni tempura in shiso leaf. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 11941 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.760.3348 $$ Map A1 ISE-SHIMA Located in the Miyako Hybrid Hotel in Old Town Torrance, Ise-Shima provides fresh sushi and other exciting Japanese dishes, recalling the array of seafood and marine delicacies Japan’s Ise Shima region offers. The expansive restaurant consists of a sushi bar, lounge space, large communal table and terrace. B, L, D (daily). 21381 S. Western Ave., Torrance, 310.320.6700 $$ Map M14
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KATANA Robata-style cuisine: open-flame-grilled meat, vegetables, seafood on skewers. Stylish rooms, patio. D (nightly). 8439 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.650.8585 $$$ Map H12 KATSUYA Sushi chef Katsuya Uechi turns out exotic delicacies in sultry spaces by designer Philippe Starck. L (varies by location), D (nightly). 11777 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.207.8744; 6300 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.871.8777; 702 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.244.5900; L.A. Live, 800 W. Olympic
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MATSUHISA Superchef Nobu Matsuhisa’s more modest original flagship incorporates luxurious Western ingredients and Latin American spices. Monkfish liver pâté with caviar, and lamb chops with miso anticucho sauce are just a couple of his creations. L (M-F), D (nightly). 129 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.659.9639 $$$$ Map I12 MUSASHIYA New udon restaurant in Westwood Village serves house-made noodles, available hot or cold, with a choice of three dipping broths: rich miso sprinkled with sesame, simmered beef with thin-sliced meat, and spicy soy milk with ground pork. L, D (M-Sa). 1049 Gayley Ave., L.A., 310.208.5999 $ Map J9 N/NAKA Offerings are crafted in the kaiseki Japanese culinary tradition, with both classic and modern interpretations. The 13-course menus are prepared with produce from N/Naka’s organic garden; there is an extensive sake and wine list as well. Chef/owner Niki Nakayama was one of six chefs featured in the Netflix documentary series Chef’s Table. D (Tu-Sa). 3455 S. Overland Ave., L.A., 310.836.6252 $$$$ Map L11 NOBU The flagship of chef Nobu Matsuhisa offers an extensive menu of traditional and avant-garde sushi, including many dishes with beguiling Peruvian accents. West Hollywood: D (nightly). Malibu: B (F-Su); L, D (daily). 903 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.657.5711; Nobu Malibu, 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.9140 $$$$ Map H12, east of A1 Q The omakase-only experience at this intimate sushi bar showcases the artistry and discipline of chef/owner Hiroyuki Naruke in items like miso-marinated uni and monkfish as rich as foie gras. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa). 521 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.225.6285 $$$$ Map I16 ROBATA BAR Japanese grilling from the Sushi Roku, Katana and Boa team. Striking design by Dodd Mitchell. D (nightly). 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.458.4771 $$$ Map L8 ROKU This new Sunset Strip hot spot from the team behind Sushi Roku presents elevated teppanyaki (e.g., A-5 Japanese wagyu and Santa Barbara spot prawns) prepared at interactive grill tables, as well as sushi, omakase offerings and an extensive selection of Japanese whiskeys. L (M-F), D (nightly). 9201 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2060 $$$ Map H12 SUSHI ROKU Nouvelle Japanese, sleek decor and a creative menu. For foodies 10 and under, Sushi Roku Pasadena offers a fun “okosama” kids’ menu with four bento-box options. L, D (daily). 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.458.4771; 33 Miller Alley, Pasadena, 626.683.3000 $$$ Map L8, Q19 URASAWA If you’re serious about sushi, make a date to sit at Urasawa’s bar. Here you’ll be treated to an incredible omakase dinner—don’t even ask about price—that features the freshest, most artfully presented sushi, sashimi and shabu-shabu dishes. Reservation required. D (Tu-Sa). 218 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.247.8939 $$$$ Map I11
STREET FOOD www.DelishTours.com 323.412.9077 Eat the food that defines the culture of Venice Beach
Mediterranean A.O.C. Mediterranean-inspired pioneer of two L.A. culinary trends: the small-plates format and the wine bar. Chef/owner Suzanne Goin offers addictive baconwrapped, Parmesan-stuffed dates and an excellent selection of cheeses and cured meats from a charcuterie bar. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 8700 W. 3rd St., L.A., 310.859.9859 $$ Map I12 THE BELVEDERE This elegant dining room in the Peninsula Beverly Hills recently emerged from a months-long renovation with a modernized interior, a new terrace and a Mediterranean menu from executive
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DINING chef David Codney. What hasn’t changed is the soothing atmosphere and gracious service. Menu favorites include Dover sole, potted house-smoked salmon, taramasalata, Middle Eastern-inspired flatbreads and fantastically beautiful desserts. B, L, D (daily). 9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.788.2306 $$$$ Map J11 BOWERY BUNGALOW Restaurateur George AbouDaoud honors his Middle Eastern heritage here by applying exotic Silk Road flavors to all-American concepts like Southern baby-back ribs. The inventive menu even features Pacific influences: Kebabs called “shishkatori” are grilled over binchotan charcoal like authentic Japanese yakitori. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 4156 Santa Monica Blvd., Silver Lake, 323.663.1500 $$ Map south of W23 CROSSROADS KITCHEN Chef/partner Tal Ronnen creates exclusively plant-based dishes, many based on nonvegan comfort classics. Try the “crab cake,” the attractive artichoke “oysters” topped with crispy oyster mushrooms or, for brunch, the “chicken” and waffles. The wine list features organic and biodynamic labels. D, Br (daily). 8284 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.782.9245 $$$ Map H12
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ESTÉREL The redesigned restaurant at the Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills features two new spaces—the lovely French garden, Le Jardin, which offers alfresco seating, and an indoor private-party area called the Aviary—along with an open-plan main dining room, two private dining rooms and the adjacent Riviera 31 lounge. The menu is refreshed as well, with farm-to-fork Mediterranean fare from executive chef Victor Boroda. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 8555 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.358.3979 $$$ Map I12 FIG & OLIVE New York-based restaurant’s cuisine is an ode to olive oil. Don’t miss the paella del mar and the Provence roasted chicken. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (SaSu). 8490 Melrose Place, L.A., 310.360.9100 $$$ Map I12 GJELINA Under the direction of talented young chef Travis Lett, servers in T-shirts and newsboy caps serve seasonal Cal-Med small plates and pizzas to chic Westsiders. It’s one of Venice’s most popular restaurants and the neighborhood’s most lively patio. B (M-F); L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1429 $$ Map N9 LUCQUES Chef/owner Suzanne Goin delivers the next generation of Cal-Med cuisine, which includes dishes such as grilled club steak for two with potatoes parisienne. Nowhere do vegetables taste as good! L (TuSa), D (nightly). 8474 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.655.6277 $$$ Map I13 MAMA SHELTER Mediterranean menus at this hip hotel’s dining venues are helmed by chef Gerard Sampson, formerly of Laurel Hardware. The new rooftop menu features such shareable plates as muhammara (roasted red-pepper dip with walnuts), falafel and shawarma platters. Restaurant B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Bar L, D (nightly). Rooftop L, D (daily). 6500 Selma Ave., Hollywood, 323.785.6600 $$$ Map H14 PETROS Fine contemporary-Greek fare in a cool white dining room or on the covered patio. Dress code for indoor diners. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 451 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.4100 $$$ Map L13
Mexican/Latin
8730 W. Sunset Blvd. 424-249-3700 www.thechurchkeyla.com
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BROKEN SPANISH The upscale sister of B.S. Taqueria, this “modern Mexican” restaurant near L.A. Live serves classically trained chef Ray Garcia’s innovative twists on traditional dishes (e.g., lamb’s head with pickled onion and cabbage). D (nightly). 1050 S. Flower St., Suite 102, downtown, 213.749.1460 $$$ Map I15
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DINING B.S. TAQUERIA The casual, colorful setting at this Ray Garcia-helmed spot offers the right vibe for lemonpepper chicken chicharrones or clam-and-lardo tacos. A B.S. Taqueria concession stand serving tacos and churros recently debuted at Staples Center. L (M-F), D (nightly). 514 W. 7th St., L.A., 213.622.3744 $$ Map H15 CORAZON Y MIEL Inspired by family recipes and the flavors of Latin America, chef Eduardo Ruiz (formerly of Animal) serves both small and shareable plates and an extensive cocktail menu and offers plenty of draft beer and wine. Dulce de Puerco (bacon, dates, whipped cotija) is a menu favorite. D (Tu-Su), Br (Su). 6626 Atlantic Ave., Bell, 323.560.1776 $$ Map C3 DÍA DE CAMPO Part of Blackhouse Hospitality (Little Sister, Abigaile, Steak & Whisky), this restaurant offers innovative Mexican dishes like chocolate-duck quesadillas, chorizo-stuffed dates and wood-grilled lobster with chili butter in a sexy surf-lodge setting. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1238 Hermosa Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.379.1829 $$ Map L13
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GRACIAS MADRE Organic, plant-based Mexican fare is served at this beautiful restaurant (the patio’s ambiance can’t be beat) from the team behind Cafe Gratitude. Inventive dishes like coconut ceviche tostadas or flautas de papas filled with sweet potatoes and cashew nacho cheese please vegans and omnivores alike. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8905 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.978.2170 $$ Map I12 MEXICANO Indoor-outdoor restaurant in the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw shopping center is run by James Beard Award-nominated chefs Jaime Martin Del Campo and Ramiro Arvizu, whose La Casita Mexicana restaurant in Bell is widely considered one of the best Mexican restaurants in L.A. County. Try the poblano mole, a house specialty. L, D (daily). 3650 W. Martin Luther King Blvd., L.A., 323.296.0798 $$$ Map northeast of M12 PETTY CASH TAQUERIA Mexican street food (e.g., tacos, ceviche and quesadillas) featuring local, seasonal ingredients and refined technique. New weekday lunch options include a carne asada burrito, and weekend lunch highlights include chilaquiles, Huevos Mexican and nachos with Mary’s organic grilled chicken. L (W-Su), D (nightly). 7360 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.933.5300 $$ Map I13 RED O Rick Bayless, one of America’s leading authorities on Mexican cuisine, is consulting chef at these sexy eateries (the Santa Monica location opened last summer). Many of his thoughtful dishes are grounded in tradition. WeHo: D (nightly). Santa Monica: L, D (daily). 8155 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.655.5009; 1541 Ocean Ave., Suite 120, Santa Monica, 310.458.1600 $$$ Map I12, L8 TORTILLA REPUBLIC This casual-chic WeHo restaurant serves up modern Mexican cuisine made with unique ingredients and rich in flavor. Sidle up to the white onyx bar or enjoy alfresco dining on the large patio. L (Tu-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 616 N. Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.657.9888 $$ Map I12
Pan-Asian
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CRUSTACEAN A glass-covered koi-filled stream meanders under the bar at this Cal-Vietnamese eatery, and diners indulge in items from a “secret kitchen” in which only the owners’ family members and select longtime staff members are allowed. The garlic noodles are a signature. L (M-F), D (nightly). 9646 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.205.8990 $$$ Map I11 THE DISTRICT BY HANNAH AN One of the celebrated An sisters—her family introduced Crustacean (above)—celebrates her Vietnamese heritage with a cuisine that reflects authenticity while incorporating California sensibilities in a chic indoor-outdoor space.
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DINING
ENTERPRISE FISH CO. Established in 1979, this restaurant is a local favorite when it comes to seafood. Wild-caught fish, fresh seafood and steaks are cooked over a mesquite charcoal grill in an exhibition kitchen set in the middle of the dining room. L, D (daily). 174 Kinney St., Santa Monica, 310.392.8366 $$$ Map M9
Modern tsukuri of fluke at N/Naka. p. 71
Dishes like Chilean sea bass, lobster with handmade noodles, and Vietnamese chicken curry are enjoyed with cocktails infused with Southeast Asian flavors. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8722 W. 3rd St., L.A., 310.278.2345 $$$ Map I12 LITTLE SISTER At these trendy spots, young chef Tin Vuong brings sophisticated accents to pan-Asian cuisine with signatures like deep-fried Balinese meatballs with banana ketchup, Myanmar okra curry and saltand-pepper lobster. Downtown location opened in October. M.B.: L (F-Su), D (nightly). Downtown: B, L, D (daily). 1131 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.2096; 523 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.628.3146 $$ Map L13, I16 LUKSHON Sang Yoon of Father’s Office is behind this Southeast Asian eatery with a selection of craft beers and Far East-inspired cocktail program. The crispy whole market fish is not to be missed. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa). 3239 Helms Ave., Culver City, 310.202.6808 $$$ Map K12 SIMBAL Chef Shawn Pham’s (the French Laundry, Craft, the Bazaar by José Andrés) first restaurant draws from his Vietnamese heritage. The tricky-to-find spot (it’s tucked into the side of Little Tokyo Mall) offers a cuisine that combines the best of Ho Chi Minh City’s food stalls with sophisticated technique and Pham’s playful attitude. Don’t miss mixologist Brandyn Tepper’s creative cocktails. D (Tu-Sa). 3319 E. 2nd St., Suite 202, downtown, 213.626.0244 $$$ Map H17 WP24 From its 24th-floor roost, WP24 proves that Wolfgang Puck, who pioneered Asian fusion, has still got the goods. Highlights include XO seafood dumplings and steamed bao filled with pork belly. Restaurant/lounge concept Nest at WP24 is adjacent. Dining room D (TuSa). Nest D (nightly). Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, 900 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.743.8824 $$$$ Map I15
Seafood BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE Putting a “California twist on East Hampton summer lobster bakes,” this casual yet stylish restaurant has locations by the pier in Santa Monica and inland on West 3rd Street. At the latter, a covered patio, large (fully stocked) bar and fresh modern interior by Tim Clarke Design offer ample seating and views into an open kitchen; both locations feature dishes such as oysters on the half shell, New England steamers, lobster rolls, fish tacos and lobster mac and cheese. L (M–F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8048 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.656.5474; 355 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.576.3474 $$$ Map I12, L8 CAFE DEL REY Ogle impressive pleasure boats in the marina at this waterfront restaurant with plentiful fresh catch, a raw bar and prime cuts of steak. Stop in for
FISHING WITH DYNAMITE David LeFevre, a Water Grill alum, loads his menu with East Coast inspirations, as well as some innovative dishes. Among the old-school small plates in this tiny, charming restaurant are New England-style clam chowder with Nueske’s bacon and Maryland blue-crab cakes with house-made pickles and remoulade. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1148 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.893.6299 $$$ Map L13 GLADSTONE’S MALIBU One of SoCal’s biggest hits, with a million visitors each year. Dramatic ocean views. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 17300 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades, 310.454.3474 $$ Map west of K7 THE HUNGRY CAT East Coast fare in hip little spots. Dine on dishes such as crab cakes or chilled crab legs and you-peel or they-peel shrimp by the halfpound. Hollywood: L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). Santa Monica: L (Sa-Su), D (Tu-Su). Sunset + Vine, 1535 N. Vine St., Hollywood, 323.462.2155; 100 W. Channel Road, Santa Monica, 310.459.3337 $$ Map H14, L7 THE LOBSTER Enjoy a view of the Pacific while indulging in superlative seafood from this Santa Monica Pieradjacent restaurant with a newly remodeled interior. The outdoor patio is most coveted for sampling the eponymous crustacean in various iterations. L, D (daily). 1602 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.458.9294 $$$ Map L8 PROVIDENCE Chef/owner Michael Cimarusti (who’s also behind Connie and Ted’s and new fish shop Cape Seafood and Provisions) transforms seafood from the world’s most pristine waters into oft-changing dishes. Outstanding cocktails complement Michelin-recognized cuisine. L (F), D (nightly). 5955 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.460.4170 $$$$ Map I14 SON OF A GUN Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, the meatloving chefs at Animal, turn to the sea for new inspiration. They cook up small shareable plates, such as miniature lobster rolls and shrimp-toast sandwiches, in a nautically themed space. L, D (daily). 8370 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.9033 $$$ Map I12
Spanish BAR PINTXO Spanish tapas bar around the corner from the Santa Monica Pier offers authentic tortilla española, paella and croquetas de jamón and Spanish wines. L, D (daily). 109 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.458.2012 $$ Map M8 THE BAZAAR BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS Star chef José Andrés brings a whimsical set of Spanish-style dining experiences to the eminently stylish SLS Hotel. Cuisine ranges from rustic fare to the cutting-edge culinary creations that have made Spain a culinary leader. Tasting room Saam offers an unforgettable 20-pluscourse prix-fixe menu. Dining room D (nightly). Saam D (Th-Sa). 465 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.246.5555 $$$ Map H16 SMOKE.OIL.SALT Authentic, traditional, shareable Spanish cuisine (albondigas al horno; charcuteria de iberico) served in a lively location on Melrose. More than 130 bottles of wines, sparkling cavas and sherries, plus 30 wines by the glass. D (nightly). 7274 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.930.7900 $$ Map I13
Steak ALEXANDER’S STEAKHOUSE This ultraluxurious interpretation of the classic American steakhouse incorporates Asian influences. Certified Angus beef and one of L.A.’s widest selections of domestic and imported wagyu star on the menu. New Bull & Barrel is an intimate bar within the restaurant, offering the full menu plus an expanded, whiskey-forward cocktail menu and social-hour food menu with specialty items. D (nightly). 111 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, 626.486.1111 $$$ Map Q20 THE ARTHUR J This swanky Manhattan Beach steakhouse, helmed by chef David LeFevre (M.B. Post, Fishing With Dynamite), offers a classic menu that will delight any carnivore, but the seafood dishes and sides-with-a-twist are excellent as well. Sit in the midcentury-inspired, spacious dining room or at the bar. D (nightly). 903 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.878.9620 $$$$ Map C2 BALTAIRE Helmed by executive chef Travis Strickland, this sophisticated Brentwood restaurant offers prime steaks, wines by the glass, old-school charm and sunor-star dining on its 2,500-square-foot terrace—perhaps best enjoyed with the Baltaire Julep cocktail in hand. “BBQ, Blues & Brews” menu served in the bar and lounge Monday nights. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 11647 San Vicente Blvd., L.A., 424.273.1660 $$$$ Map J12 BOA Way hip, way fine steakhouse. Steak rubs and dips; out-there cocktails. Santa Monica: L, D (daily). West Hollywood: L (M-F), D (nightly). 101 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.899.4466; 9200 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2050 $$$ Map M8, H12 MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB At this on-the-waterfront eatery—the views are pure Malibu—starters like ahi tartare, lobster cocktail and caviar service are followed by fresh fish, whole Maine lobster or expertly prepared steaks. Sides like lobster mashed potatoes and Alaskan king crab/black-truffle gnocchi are legendary. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.454.4357 $$$$ Map west of K7 MEAT DISTRICT CO. Meat-centric restaurant serves a “paddock to plate”-inspired menu (steaks, ribs, burgers) in an industrial space. Sunday brunch means Nutella-stuffed French toast, breakfast poutine and bottomless mimosas. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 69 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena, 626.765.9902 $$ Map Q20 MORTON’S Clubby ambiance, show-and-tell menu, huge portions. Beverly Hills, Woodland Hills: D (nightly). Downtown, Burbank: L (M-F), D (nightly). 435 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.246.1501; 6250 Canoga Ave., Woodland Hills, 818.703.7272; 735 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.553.4566; the Pinnacle, 3400 W. Olive Ave., Burbank, 818.238.0424 $$$ Map I11, west of A1, I16, T20 NICK + STEF’S A modern interpretation of the classic American steakhouse, Bunker Hill institution Nick + Stef’s recently underwent a complete overhaul of both its menu and its dining rooms, now a midcenturymodern vision in hues of coral, blue and caramel with brass touches. The menu from new executive chef Andreas Roller includes showstopping meat dishes as well as an expanded seafood menu. USDA Prime beef is aged on-site in a glass-encased aging chamber. L (M-F), D (nightly). Wells Fargo Building, 330 S. Hope St., downtown, 213.680.0330 $$$ Map H16 PISTOLA The newer sister restaurant to Victor Casanova’s Gusto gives classic Italian steakhouse fare a modern twist. Enjoy classic dishes such as shrimp scampi, dry-aged Delmonico steak and bone-in veal chop in an elegant space with a sleek, 1950s New York feel. D (Tu-Sa). 8022 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.951.9800 $$$ Map I13
ZEN SEKIZAWA
its great nightly happy hour, too. L (M–F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 4451 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.823.6395 $$$ Map N9
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DINING STEAK & WHISKY Rustic meets modern at this South Bay spot from chef/partner Tin Vuong and partner Jed Sanford of Blackhouse Hospitality Management. A blend of cultural influences updates American classics like traditional porterhouse and dry-aged beef. D (nightly). 117 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.318.5555 $$$$ Map L13 THE STINKING ROSE True to its motto, “We season our garlic with food,” this Restaurant Row mainstay offers eclectic, garlicky menu options including 40-Clove Garlic Chicken and Silence of the Lamb Shank. Pianist Gary Sherer performs Th-Sa evenings in the Gar Bar. L, D (daily). 55 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.652.7673 $$ Map I12 STK The One Group’s renowned steakhouse has a sleek new L.A. home. Expect signature savory steaks, shellfish platters and jalapeño-cheddar grits, as well as new dishes such as seared foie gras with spiced rum, and crispy lobster tails. D (nightly). W Los Angeles—West Beverly Hills, 930 Hilgard Ave., L.A., 310.659.3535 $$$ Map J10
Thai JITLADA THAI The wait for a table is long at this top-rated restaurant in East Hollywood’s Thai Town, but the Southern Thai specialties, such as moo mae chan (grilled pork Southern-style with papaya salad and sticky rice), are authentic and exceptional. L, D (Tu-Su). 5233 1/2 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.667.9809 $$ Map W22 NATALEE THAI Traditional Thai dishes are served amid edgy, modern decor. Among entrées are Nutty Chicken (a spicy combo of chicken, onion and dried chilies) and a sole filet in red curry sauce. Veggie lovers favor the spicy maha jumlong curry. L, D (daily). 10101 Venice Blvd., Culver City, 310.202.7003; 998 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.855.9380 $ Map L11, I11 NIGHT + MARKET For authentic Thai food, head to either the WeHo or Silver Lake location (the latter is Night + Market Song) of this hip spot from L.A.born chef Kris Yenbamroong. Celebrity diners include Gwyneth Paltrow and Lena Dunham. Third location, Night + Market Sahm, due at 2533 Lincoln Blvd. in Venice this summer. WeHo: L (Tu-Th), D (Tu-Su). Silver Lake: L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 9043 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.275.9724; 3322 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.665.5899 $$ Map I12, south of W23 PALMS THAI This spot near the Pantages theater is known more for its entertainment than its cooking, but both are worth the trip. Kavee Thongprecha, “the Thai Elvis,” does campy interpretations of the King’s repertory. Unusual menu items include frog legs with chili and basil. L, D (daily). 5900 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.462.5073 $ Map H14
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POK POK LA This 200-seat Mandarin Plaza restaurant from award-winning chef Andy Ricker is just down the street from his Pok Pok Phat Thai in Chinatown. The menu’s five categories include drinking food, grilled things and sweet things. Standout items include Ike’s Vietnamese Fish Sauce Wings; Ricker also works wonders with duck, ribs and vegetables. L, D (daily). 978 N. Broadway, downtown, 213.613.1831 $$ Map G17
where? Photo © Cittá del Vaticano
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RESTAURANTS City Index Our superguide by area, with cross reference to listings by cuisine.
BEVERLY HILLS
CULVER CITY
LA CIENEGA BOULEVARD
THE ARTHUR J (Steak)........................................... 74
208 RODEO (California)..................................... 66
FATHER’S OFFICE (Brew/Pub).....................65
RESTAURANT ROW
CLAIM JUMPER (American)............................64
AVEC NOUS (French).......................................... 68
LUKSHON (Pan-Asian)........................................... 74
THE BAZAAR (Spanish).................................... 74
MEXICANO (Mexican)............................................ 73
THE BELVEDERE (Mediterranean)................ 71
NATALEE THAI (Thai)......................................... 75
BOUCHON (French).............................................. 68
DOWNTOWN
CRUSTACEAN (Pan-Asian)............................... 73 CULINA (Italian)..................................................... 69 FREDS AT BARNEYS (American)....................64 IL FORNAIO (Italian).......................................... 69 MAUDE (California)............................................... 66 MORTON’S (Steak).............................................. 74 MR CHOW (Chinese)............................................ 67 NATALEE THAI (Thai)...................................... 75 SPAGO (California)................................................. 66
BÄCO MERCAT (Eclectic)................................... 67
FIG & OLIVE (Mediterranean)........................... 72 MATSUHISA (Japanese)...................................... 71 MORTON’S (Steak).............................................. 74 NOBU (Japanese)...................................................... 71
BESTIA (Italian)..........................................................69
THE STINKING ROSE (Steak)...................... 75
BOTTEGA LOUIE (Italian).............................. 69
MALIBU
BROKEN SPANISH (Mexican)......................... 72
GLADSTONE’S MALIBU (Seafood).......... 74
B.S. TAQUERIA (Mexican)................................. 73
MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB (Steak)........... 74
CHAYA (California)................................................. 66 CLIFTON’S (American)......................................... 64 COMMISSARY (California)..................................66 CORAZON Y MIEL (Mexican).......................... 73 DRAGO CENTRO (Italian).................................69
MR CHOW (Chinese)............................................ 67 NOBU MALIBU (Japanese)................................ 71
DÍA DE CAMPO (Mexican).................................... 73 FISHING WITH DYNAMITE (Seafood).... 74 IL FORNAIO (Italian).......................................... 69 ISE-SHIMA (Japanese)......................................... 70 LITTLE SISTER (Pan-Asian)............................. 74 LOVE & SALT (California).................................. 66 M.B. POST (American).........................................64 PETROS (Mediterranean)............................................ 72 SALT CREEK GRILLE (American).................... 65 SIMMZY’S (Brew/Pub)......................................... 65 STEAK & WHISKY (Steak)................................... 75
MARINA DEL REY
THE STRAND HOUSE (American).............. 65
CAFE DEL REY (Seafood)................................ 74
VALLEY
FACTORY KITCHEN (Italian)..........................69
PASADENA
ASANEBO (Japanese).......................................... 70
VIA BLANCA (Italian)........................................ 70
KATSUYA (Japanese)..............................................70
ALEXANDER’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak)... 74
CLAIM JUMPER (American)............................64
VIVIANE (California)............................................. 66
KENDALL’S BRASSERIE (French)..............68
DIN TAI FUNG (Chinese)................................... 67
THE FRONT YARD (California)..................... 66
BEVERLY BOULEVARD
LEDLOW (American).............................................. 64
IL FORNAIO (Italian).......................................... 69
GIRASOL (California)........................................... 66
MAISON AKIRA (Eclectic)............................... 67
JOAN’S ON THIRD (American)....................64
URASAWA (Japanese).......................................... 71
3RD STREET
LITTLE SISTER (Pan-Asian)............................. 74
MELROSE AVENUE
MADDALENA (Italian)..........................................69
A.O.C. (Mediterranean)........................................... 71
MORTON’S (Steak)................................................. 74
BAO DIM SUM (Chinese)................................... 66
NICK + STEF’S (Steak)............................................ 74
BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE (Seafood).. 74
ORSA & WINSTON (Eclectic)........................ 67
TEA ROSE GARDEN (British)...................... 65
CROSSROADS KITCHEN (Mediterranean).72
PATINA (French)........................................................68
YANG CHOW (Chinese)........................................ 67
PLAN CHECK (American)................................... 64
SANTA MONICA
THE DISTRICT (Pan-Asian)................................. 73 ESTÉREL (Mediterranean)................................... 72 GRACIAS MADRE (Mexican)......................... 73 GUSTO (Italian)....................................................... 69 INK. (American)........................................................64 JOAN’S ON THIRD (American)....................64 THE LITTLE DOOR (French).......................... 68 LITTLE NEXT DOOR (French)...................... 68 LUCQUES (Mediterranean)................................. 72 OSTERIA MOZZA (Italian)............................. 70 PETTY CASH TAQUERIA (Mexican)........ 73
POK POK LA (Thai)............................................ 75 Q (Japanese)..................................................................... 71 REDBIRD (American)............................................. 64 SIMBAL (Pan-Asian).............................................. 74
MEAT DISTRICT CO. (Steak)........................ 74 SUSHI ROKU (Japanese)..................................... 71
AREAL (American)................................................... 64
KATSUYA (Japanese)........................................... 70 MORTON’S (Steak).............................................. 74 SADDLE PEAK LODGE (American).......... 65 SALT CREEK GRILLE (American).................... 65 SIMMZY’S (Brew/Pub)......................................... 65 YANG CHOW (Chinese)........................................ 67
VENICE
ASHLAND HILL (Brew/Pub)..............................65
CHAYA (California)................................................. 66
BAR PINXTO (Spanish)...................................... 74
GJELINA (Mediterranean)................................... 72 LEONA (California)................................................. 66
TERRONI (Italian).....................................................70
BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE (Seafood).. 74
WP24 (Pan-Asian)...................................................... 74
BOA (Steak)............................................................... 74
PLANT FOOD AND WINE (California)... 66
YANG CHOW (Chinese)........................................ 67
CASSIA (Eclectic)................................................... 67
SIMMZY’S (Brew/Pub)......................................... 65
HOLLYWOOD/EASTSIDE
ENTERPRISE FISH CO. (Seafood)............. 74
THE TASTING KITCHEN (California)........ 66
FATHER’S OFFICE (Brew/Pub).................... 65
WEST HOLLYWOOD
ALIMENTO (Italian).................................................68 BIRCH (American)..................................................... 64 BOWERY BUNGALOW (Mediterranean)... 72
PISTOLA (Steak).................................................... 74
HOUSE OF MACAU (Chinese)......................... 67
PIZZERIA MOZZA (Italian)............................ 70
THE HUNGRY CAT (Seafood).......................... 74
PROVIDENCE (Seafood)................................... 74
JITLADA THAI (Thai)........................................... 75
FIG RESTAURANT (California)..................... 66
BOA (Steak)............................................................... 74
THE HUNGRY CAT (Seafood)........................ 74
CAVATINA (California)........................................ 66
INDEPENDENCE (American).........................64
CECCONI’S (Italian)............................................ 69
THE LOBSTER (Seafood)..................................... 74
RED O (Mexican)..................................................... 73
KATSUYA (Japanese)..............................................70
LOCANDA DEL LAGO (Italian).................. 69
SMOKE.OIL.SALT (Spanish).......................... 74
MAMA SHELTER (Mediterranean)................... 72
MÉLISSE (French).................................................. 68
SON OF A GUN (Seafood)............................... 74
NIGHT + MARKET SONG (Thai)................. 75
MILO & OLIVE (California)............................... 66
THE CHURCH KEY (American).....................64 KATANA (Japanese).............................................. 70 NIGHT + MARKET (Thai)................................ 75 PUMP (California)..................................................... 66 ROKU (Japanese)...................................................... 71
TERRINE (California)............................................ 66
PALMS THAI (Thai)................................................ 75
TERRONI (Italian).................................................. 70
PUBLIC KITCHEN + BAR (Brew/Pub)........65
BRENTWOOD
RAO’S (Italian)................................................................. 70
BALTAIRE (Steak)........................................................ 74
TROIS MEC (Eclectic).............................................68
KATSUYA (Japanese)........................................... 70
LA BREA/MID-CITY
TAVERN (California).............................................. 66
ANIMAL (American)..............................................64
CENTURY CITY
JON & VINNY’S (Italian).................................. 69
CRAFT (American)..................................................64
ODYS + PENELOPE (American)...................64
HINOKI & THE BIRD (California)................. 66
PLAN CHECK (American).................................64
SOUTH BAY/LONG BEACH
SOTTO (Italian)....................................................... 70
MEIZHOU DONGPO (Chinese)..................... 67
RÉPUBLIQUE (French)....................................... 68
ABIGAILE (American).................................................64
STK (Steak)......................................................................... 75
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OX & SON (American)..........................................64 RED O (Mexican)..................................................... 73 ROBATA BAR (Japanese)................................... 71
TORTILLA REPUBLIC (Mexican)............... 73
WESTSIDE MATTEO’S (Italian)............................................... 70
RUSTIC CANYON (California)........................ 66 SUSHI ROKU (Japanese)..................................... 71 VALENTINO (Italian)........................................... 70 YE OLDE KING’S HEAD (British).............. 65
MUSASHIYA (Japanese)...................................... 71 N/NAKA (Japanese).................................................. 71 PLAN CHECK (American).................................64 ROC (Chinese)............................................................... 67
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
MENU HIGHLIGHTS Shared Plates Farro macaroni Oysters Tuna tartare Pan-seared scallops Cauliflower steak Zucchini beignets
ESTÉREL RESTAURANT Located in the Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, the recently redesigned Estérel Restaurant boasts a range of dining settings in which to enjoy executive chef Victor Boroda’s seasonally driven, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Guests can sip an aperitif in the French garden patio, Le Jardin, or host a private cocktail party in the Aviary. Two private dining rooms are available, as well; one serves as a chef’s table, where chef Borda blends French and California cuisines in custom tasting menus. In the open-plan main dining room, high-backed booths and deep blue walls create a sophisticated atmosphere, and an exhibition kitchen with a wood-burning oven provides a show. Additionally, guests can enjoy cocktails created by Ferrari Watts, Riviera 31 Lounge Bar’s resident mixologist. B,L,D (daily), Br (Su).
Plates Seared ahi tuna Grass-fed burger Squid-ink tagliatelle Grass-fed Angus skirt steak frites Poulet rôti Lamb shank Grilled Maine lobster Ancient grain bowl
Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, 8555 Beverly Blvd., L.A.
310.358.3979 esterelrestaurant.com
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LADINING ENTERPRISE FISH CO. Serving fresh seafood since 1979, Enterprise Fish Co. is housed in a historic brick building that was renovated to resemble the quintessential wharfside eateries found along the Pacific Coast. Vintage photos of Venice Beach and other seaside locations on the walls set the beachy mood, as does the aquarium you pass by when entering. The restaurant’s open kitchen, set in the middle of the dining room, allows patrons to witness the catch of the day being cooked on a unique mesquite grill. Alternately, diners can eat alfresco on the cozy heated patio. The menu features favorites like wild-caught fish, Maine lobster and king crab legs, but don’t miss the steaks and decadent desserts. It’s no wonder Enterprise Fish Co. was voted locally as the No. 1 seafood restaurant in the area. Daily happy hour 4-7 pm. L, D (daily). 174 Kinney St., Santa Monica 310.392.8366 • enterprisefishcosantamonica.com
LOCANDA DEL LAGO Locanda del Lago blends organic produce from the Santa Monica Farmers Market and many other local purveyors with Italian ingredients to create dishes from Northern Italy’s Lombardy region. This family-run restaurant attracts celebrities, foodies, locals and travelers with its authentic and traditional recipes. Dishes feature high-quality meats and pastas such as all-natural Niman Ranch veal shank, salt baked wild sea bass, housemade ravioli and home-made buckwheat pappardelle. A full vegetarian menu is also available. Enjoy the breads, desserts and gelato, made in-house daily. The warm interior and sidewalk patio overlooking the bustling Third Street Promenade also offers a daily happy hour that features specialty cocktails and local and Italian wines. B (Su), L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 231 Arizona Ave., Santa Monica 310.451.3525 • lagosantamonica.com
BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE Classic New England clam shack meets California-chic bistro at Blue Plate Oysterette, the popular sister location to the seaside Santa Monica staple. A covered patio, large (fully stocked) bar and fresh modern interior by Tim Clarke Design offer ample seating and views into an open kitchen, where dishes such as oysters on the half shell, New England steamers, lobster rolls, Jonah crab cakes and lobster mac and cheese are prepared using seafood flown in from the East and West coasts. Enjoy the local scene, and relax with friends over bloody marys, spiked blueberry lemonades, French toast and smoked-salmon Benedicts during the weekend brunch. Show your receipt for taking Uber or Lyft to the restaurant and receive $7 off your bill. Mention Where LA for a complementary key lime pie. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8048 W. 3rd Street, L.A. 323.656.5474 • blueplatewest3rd.com
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LADINING IL FORNAIO Il Fornaio’s award-winning authentic Italian cuisine is a favorite in Los Angeles. Specialties include housemade pastas, wood-fired pizza, grilled fish, authentic risotto and rotisserie meats. Fresh pastas are made daily. Each month a special menu from a different region of Italy is featured. With an event coordinator on-site to handle all of your needs, Il Fornaio is the perfect location for special events and business functions. Repeat recipient of The Wine Spectator’s “Award of Excellence.”
301 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills • 310.550.8330 1800 Rosecrans Ave., Manhattan Beach • 310.725.9555 24 West Union St., Pasadena • 626.683.9797 6320 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills • 818.297.1700 ilfornaio.com
THE STINKING ROSE— A GARLIC RESTAURANT The Stinking Rose has been a mainstay on the dining scene since 1996. The restaurant’s latest addition is a supplemental Garlic Stake menu, which includes such premium beef specialties as the Little Devil petite filet mignon, Dracula’s Porterhouse (a carnivore’s dream of the perfectly prepared cut, with New York and filet mignon cooked separately), a bone-in filet mignon and the newest addition, a ribeye steak. The Gar Bar is the perfect setting to enjoy an evening of standards and pop songs performed by piano man Gary Sherer, who tickles the ivories Thursday through Saturday nights. Settle into a cozy booth or find a seat at the bar and enjoy an evening of fine food and pure entertainment. L, D (daily). 55 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills 310.652.7673 • thestinkingrose.com
MATTEO’S RESTAURANT Frequented in its early days by celebs including Frank Sinatra and the rest of the Rat Pack, Matteo’s Restaurant has redefined its look and cuisine while maintaining its status as the epitome of classic cool. Now in its 50th year, Matteo’s continues to offer unique seasonal fare in a homey and hip setting. Executive chef Antonio Orlando’s menu features sumptuous, cosmopolitan Italian fare like veal tartufato, lamb and weekly game specials. Happy hour specials Tuesday through Friday and on Sunday include half-off drinks and a $7-and-under bar menu. Gluten-free and vegetarian options also available. For lunch, visit adjacent cafe Hoboken, open weekdays. D (Tu-Su).
2321 Westwood Blvd., L.A. 310.475.4521 • matteosla.com
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T H E G U I D E | E N T E R TA I N M E N T guidelines Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps in the back of this issue. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
index Special Events.....................81 Studio Tours........................ 82 Theater..................................81 Museums............................ 82 Music + Dance.....................81 Shopping Destinations.... 85 Sports.....................................81 Beaches................................86 Attractions...........................81 Tours + Transport..............86
Special Events INTERNATIONAL SURF FESTIVAL Aug. 4-7 Summer festival, now in its 55th year, celebrates the South Bay beach cities and includes volleyball tournaments, swim races, surfing contests, a beach run and youth events. Check website for schedule and event locations. Free. surffestival.org TWILIGHT CONCERT SERIES Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25 Annual summer concert series at the Santa Monica Pier features contemporary up-and-comers and classic bands. 7-10 pm. Free. 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, 310.458.8901 Map M8 CINESPIA Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27 Outdoor film series at Hollywood Forever Cemetery features cult and classic films projected on a mausoleum wall. Also: pre-movie DJs and themed photo booths. See website for schedule. $16. Parking $12-$15. 6000 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood, 877.435.9849, cinespia.org Map H14
SUNDANCE NEXT FEST Aug. 12-14 Festival presented by the Sundance Institute includes L.A. premieres of independent films paired with musical performances or conversations with cultural icons. See website for schedule. $15-$25. The Theatre at Ace Hotel, 929 S. Broadway, downtown, sundance.org/next Map H16 TASTE OF BREWS Aug. 20 Craft-beer festival features local, regional and national craft breweries. Noon-5 pm (alcohol service ends at 4 pm). Advance purchase $30–$40. Shoreline Aquatic Park, 200 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 714.375.1132 Map O16 LOS ANGELES FOOD & WINE Aug. 25-28 Epicurean event features world-class chefs, including Emeril Lagasse and Otium’s Timothy Hollingsworth. With a home base in front of Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Broad downtown, the festival offers tastings, cooking demonstrations, special events across L.A. and more. See website for full schedule. Individual tickets $50$300. 855.433.5239, lafw.com FYF FEST Aug. 27-28 Premier SoCal music fest features more than 50 indie-rock bands, ranging from up-and-comers to big-name headliners, performing at Exposition Park. Single-day ticket $125; Two-day ticket $199; VIP $339. 700 Exposition Park Drive, L.A., fyffest.com Map K15
PAIWEI WEI
Theater GREY GARDENS—THE MUSICAL Through Aug. 14 Highly acclaimed Broadway musical based on the cultclassic documentary about Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ eccentric relatives. Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772 Map H16
MUSIC + DANCE THE FORUM Aug. 6 The Comedy Get Down with George Lopez, Cedric the Entertainer, D.L. Hughley, Eddie Griffin and Charlie Murphy. Aug. 14 Slipknot. Aug. 20 Dream Team. Aug. 23 Heart with Joan Jet and the Blackhearts and Cheap Trick. Aug. 26 Juan Gabriel. Aug. 28 Journey and Santana. 3900 W. Manchester Blvd., Inglewood, 310.330.7300 Map O12 GREEK THEATRE Aug. 4 Ryan Adams and the Shining. July 6 Bryan Adams. Aug. 6 The Piano Guys. Aug. 9-10 Alabama Shakes. Aug. 12 Rebelution. Aug. 13 Steve Miller Band. Aug. 17 Jackson Browne. Aug. 18 Lynyrd Skynyrd and Peter Frampton. Aug. 20 The Gipsy Kings. Aug. 21 Pat Benetar, Neil Giraldo, Melissa Etheridge. Aug. 24 Deftones. Aug. 26-27 Josh Groban with special guest Sarah McLachlan. Aug. 30 The GoGo’s with special guests Best Coast and Kaya Stewart. 2700 N. Vermont Ave., Griffith Park, L.A., 323.665.5857 Map V22 HOLLYWOOD BOWL Aug. 2 Tango Under the Stars With Dudamel featuring Los Angeles Philharmonic, conductor Gustavo Dudamel. Aug. 3 Gladys Knight. Aug. 4 Stravinsky’s Firebird featuring L.A. Phil, conductor Ben Gernon. Aug. 5-6 Tchaikovsky Spectacular with fireworks featuring L.A. Phil, conductor Gustavo Dudamel. Aug. 7 Sufjan Stevens. Aug. 9 Magical Mozart featuring L.A. Phil, conductor Andrew Manze. Aug 10 Jeff Beck. Aug. 11 Beethoven and Schubert featuring L.A. Phil, conductor Andrew Manze, pianist Francesco Piemontesi. Aug. 12-13 An Olympic Carnival featuring Sergio Mendez, Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. Aug. 14 Rodrigo y Gabriela. Aug. 16 A Handel Celebration featuring L.A. Phil, L.A. Master Chorale. Aug. 17 The Ultimate Tribute to Ray Charles starring Maceo Parker. Aug. 18 Mozart & Schumann featuring L.A. Phil, conductor Nicholas McGegan, pianist Garrick Ohlsson. Aug. 19 Ben Harper. Aug. 20 Brandi Carlile. Aug. 11 The Silk Road Ensemble with Yo-Yo Ma. Aug. 23 Korngold & Beethoven’s Fifth featuring L.A. Phil, conductor Joana Carneiro, violinist Gil Shaham. Aug. 24 Mega Nova featuring Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Cindy Blackman Santana, Marcus Miller and Carlos Santana. Aug. 25 Cinematic Sounds featuring L.A. Phil, conductor Bramwell Tovey, violinist Mari Samuelsen, cellist Håkon Samuelsen. Aug. 26-27 Culture Club. Aug. 28 Smooth Summer Jazz Festival. Aug 30 Shakespeare at the Bowl featuring L.A. Phil, conductor Bramwell Tovey, Shakespeare’s Globe actors. Aug. 31 The Black Movie Soundtrack II featuring Common, Marcus Miller, host Craig Robinson. 2301 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.850.2000, hollywoodbowl.com Map G13 STAPLES CENTER Aug. 2 Barbra Streisand. Aug. 5-6, 9-10, 12-13 Adele. Aug. 27 The Kingdom Tour—Daddy Yankee vs. Don Omar 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.742.7100 Map I15
Sports DODGER STADIUM Aug. 5-7 Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Boston Red Sox. Aug. 8-10 Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies. Aug. 12-14 Dodgers vs. Pittsburgh Pirates. Aug. 18-19 Guns ’N Roses (musical act). Aug. 23-25 Dodgers vs. San Francisco Giants. Aug. 26-28 Dodgers vs. Chicago Cubs. 1000 Elysian Park Ave., L.A., 323.224.1507 Map G17
Attractions AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC Focus is on Pacific Ocean sea life. Touch the ocean’s predators in Shark Lagoon and meet penguins, sea otters, sea lions and 11,000 other animals. Daily 9 am-6 pm. $17.95-$29.95, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map O16
Hello, Dalí!
The largest outdoor showcase of Salvador Dalí sculptures in the United States is yours to see, for free, in the luxury-laden heart of Beverly Hills. Dalí Exhibit at Two Rodeo Drive—co-organized by Two Rodeo Drive and Galerie Michael, with a sponsorship from the Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau—comprises 12 museum-sized and monumental bronze sculptures (including Persistence of Memory, pictured above), all on loan from the Stratton Institute. For an in-depth look at the collection, call 310.873.3801 and reserve a spot on one of Galerie Michael’s docent-led tours, offered Saturdays and Sundays. Tours are complimentary, but a percentage of sales from purchased sculptures is earmarked for children’s medical charity Operation Smile, and donations to the charity are encouraged, so bring your checkbook. p. 86
Actor Paul Sand and writer William Saroyan were among the luminaries who once lived in apartments above the Looff Hippodrome, home to the carousel on the Santa Monica Pier.
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“The Official Museum of Hollywood”
DESCANSO GARDENS Collections include coast live oaks, roses, the Oak Woodland, the Ancient Forest and an award-winning camellia garden. Enjoy family-friendly festivals, performances, classes and activities for children. Daily 9 am-5 pm. $4-$9, under 5 free. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, 818.949.4200 Map Q19
QUEEN MARY Historic ocean liner permanently berthed in Long Beach Harbor. Shops, hotel, art deco lounge, a new 4-D theater and restaurants including Sir Winston’s. Daily 10 am-6 pm for self-guided and guided tours. Night tours available. Check queenmary.com for pricing. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 877.342.0738 Map O16
DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE PARK Soarin’ Over California, A Bug’s Land, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Toy Story Mania!, Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, Cars Land and more. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $95-$119, under 3 free. 1600 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map D6
RONALD REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM Visit the Air Force One Pavilion and see a full-size replica of the White House Oval Office. Daily 10 am-5 pm. $6-$16, under 2 free. 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, 800.410.8354 Map northwest of A1
DISNEYLAND Mickey Mouse’s theme park. Attractions include Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage and updated Star Tours. Disney California Adventure is adjacent. Call for hours. $95-$119, under 3 free. 1600 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map D6
SEAWORLD The 189-acre adventure park features thousands of marine animals including killer whales, fish, reptiles and birds. Open daily; call for hours, ticket packages and discounts. $83-$89, under 3 free. Parking $16-$21. 500 SeaWorld Drive, San Diego, 800.257.4268 Map I8
GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY Iconic attraction with spectacular views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood sign. Hourly shows at planetarium. Tu-F noon-10 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-10 pm. Admission free; planetarium shows $3-$7, under 5 free. 2800 E. Observatory Road, Griffith Park, L.A., 213.473.0800 Map U23
SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN Theme park has 17 coasters, plus dozens of rides and attractions for kids and families including the new virtual-reality coaster The New Revolution. Call or visit sixflags.com for hours. $54.99-$79.99, under 3 free. 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Valencia, 661.255.4100 Map A2
GUINNESS WORLD RECORD MUSEUM Shrine to amazing achievements. Su-Th 10 am-midnight; F-Sa 10-1 am. $9.99-$16.99, under 5 free. 6764 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.463.6433 Map H13
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD Movie-based theme park. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and The Walking Dead Attraction are new.Call or check universalstudioshollywood.com for hours and prices. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 800.864.8377 Map U20
HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME Celebs’ names are enshrined in bronze-and-terrazzo stars. Free. Hollywood Boulevard from Gower Street to La Brea Avenue and Vine Street from Yucca Street to Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood, 323.469.8311 Map H13
KNOTT’S BERRY FARM More than 165 rides and a attractions. Roller coasters include Silver Bullet, GhostRider and Xcelerator. Call for hours. $42$72, under 3 free. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.220.5200 Map D5 L.A. ZOO AND BOTANICAL GARDENS Home to more than 250 animal species, many of them endangered, living among immersive habitats and lush garden. Daily 10 am-5 pm. Ticket sales cease one hour before closing. $15-$20, under 2 free. 5333 Zoo Drive, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.644.4200 Map T23 LEGOLAND Resort features more than 60 rides, shows and attractions, Sea Life Aquarium, Legoland Water Park and Legoland Hotel. New immersive, 4-D Lego Ninjago: The Ride attraction; Lego Friends Heartlake City attraction and 8-foot-wide Lego Death Star model display. See legoland.com for hours, ticket packages. Parking $15-$25. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.5346 MADAME TUSSAUDS Walk the red carpet and mingle with celebs, and step behind the scenes to re-create favorite film and musical moments at the world-famous museum of wax figures. M-F 10 am-7 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-8 pm. $22.95-$29.95, under 3 free. 6933 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.798.1670 Map H13 ORIGINAL FARMERS MARKET Local landmark with 120 produce stalls, restaurants and gift shops in open-air setting. Adjacent to the Grove shopping center. 6333 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.933.9211 Map I13 OUE SKYSPACE L.A. California’s tallest open-air observation deck, at nearly 1,000 feet above the city. In addition to taking in 360-degree views, visitors can take a 45-foot-long glass “skyslide” from the 70th to the 69th floor. 633 W. 5th St., downtown, 213.894.9000 Map I16 PACIFIC PARK Amusement park at the end of the Santa Monica Pier offers games, food and rides, including a Ferris wheel. See pacpark.com for hours. Individual rides $5-$8; wristbands $17.95-$29.95. 380 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, 310.260.8744 Map M8
-Hollywood’s Honorary Mayor, Johnny Grant
IN THE HISTORIC MAX FACTOR BUILDING
Studio Tours PARAMOUNT PICTURES STUDIO TOUR Two-hour group tour of Hollywood’s longest-operating and only remaining major studio. Reservation recommended. Tours daily (except some holidays) every half-hour 9:30 am-2 pm. $55; VIP tour $178, under 10 not admitted. 2.5-hour After Dark Tour every 15 minutes F 7:15-8 pm; Sa 7:30-8 pm. $78, under 12 not admitted. 5515 Melrose Ave., Hollywood, 323.956.1777 Map I14 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD Legendary studio tour (also see listing under “Attractions”). VIP Experience includes private tour of movie studio and prop warehouse, front-of-line privileges, gourmet lunch and other perks. Check universalstudioshollywood.com or call for hours and current prices. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.3801 Map U20 WARNER BROS. STUDIO TOUR HOLLYWOOD Three-hour tour of working TV and film studio includes backlots, soundstages, costume department, museum, new DC Universe: The Exhibit and Stage 48: Script to Screen, plus observation of filming (when possible). Deluxe tour available. Reservation recommended; photo ID required. Daily 8 am-4 pm. $62, under 8 not admitted. 3400 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank, 818.972.8687 Map U20
Museums AUTRY MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN WEST Museum in Griffith Park explores the art, history and cultures of the American West and houses one of the top U.S. collections of Native American materials. See theautry.org for ongoing and special exhibits. Tu-F 10 am-4 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-5 pm. $4-$10, under 3 free. 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.667.2000 Map H14 THE BROAD New art museum built by philanthropists and longtime art collectors Eli and Edythe Broad contains nearly 2,000 works of contemporary art. Tu-W 11 am-5 pm; Th-F 11 am-8 pm; Sa 10 am-8 pm; Su 10 am-6 pm. Free; Cindy Sherman: $12, under 18 free. Advance online reservations encouraged. 221 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.232.6200 Map H16
Milton Greene Photograph, 1953 © 2013 The Hollywood Museum
SEE 10,000 AUTHENTIC SHOWBIZ TREASURES SHOWCASING 100 YEARS OF HOLLYWOOD!
The most extensive collection of costumes, props, posters, and photographs in the world!
SPECIAL EXHIBITS Max Factor: Hollywood Glamour Make Up Magic Marilyn: The Exhibit Celebrating the Best of TV and Films 2016
Open: Wed. - Sun. 10am-5pm “#1 Hollywood Tourist Attraction” –LA Weekly “One of LA’s Top 10 Museums” –LA Tourism and Convention Board “Certificate of Excellence” –Trip Advisor 1660 North Highland Avenue at Hollywood Boulevard Hollywood, California 90028 323.464.7776 www.TheHollywoodMuseum.com
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Located next to the TCL Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Blvd. www.madametussauds.com/Hollywood Bring this coupon and receive $10.00 off regular Adult/Child admission up to six (6) total admissions. Not valid for advance ticket purchase, combo packages or any other offers. Restrictions apply. The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds. Š 2015 MARVEL. Promo code WHEREMTH. Expires 12/31/16.
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GETTY VILLA Getty Center’s exquisite coastal counterpart features Etruscan, Roman and Greek antiquities. W-F, Su-M 10 am-5 pm; Sa 10 am-9 pm. Free. Parking $15, $10 after 4 pm Sa. Advance timed tickets required for entry. 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades, 310.440.7300 Map K7
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GETTY CENTER Travertine-clad hilltop facility houses collections of paintings, drawings, antiquities, photographs and decorative arts. Tu-Th 10 am-5:30 pm; F-Sa 10 am-9 pm; Su 10 am-7 pm. Free. Parking $15, $10 F-Su after 4 pm. 1200 Getty Center Drive, L.A., 310.440.7300 Map H9
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CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER Interactive exhibits for budding scientists; Imax theater. Daily 10 am-5 pm. Permanent gallery, free; admission for other exhibits and Imax varies. Parking $12. 700 Exposition Park Drive, Exposition Park, L.A., 323.724.3623 Map K15
GRAMMY MUSEUM Museum on L.A. Live campus explores music, the creative and recording processes and Grammy Awards history. M-F 10:30 am-6:30 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-6:30 pm. $10.95-$12.95, under 6 free. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.765.6800 Map I15 HAMMER MUSEUM Traveling shows and installations and permanent collection. Tu-F 11 am-8 pm; Sa-Su 11 am-5 pm. Free. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Westwood, 310.443.7000 Map J10 HOLLYWOOD MUSEUM In the historic Max Factor Building, steps from the Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Museum houses 10,000 authentic showbiz treasures that showcase 100 years of Hollywood’s entertainment industry. W-Su 10 am-5 pm. $5-$15. 1660 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.464.7776 Map H13
one of the many powerful exhibits at the
MUSEUM OF TOLERANCE www.museumoftolerance.com
9786 west pico boulevard los angeles, ca 90035 t: 310.772.2506
HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART COLLECTIONS, AND BOTANICAL GARDENS Art, buildings and grounds, with more than a dozen themed gardens. Gallery includes Pinkie and The Blue Boy. New education and visitor center. M, W-F noon-4:30 pm; Sa-Su 10:30 am-4:30 pm. $10-$25, under 4 free. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, 626.405.2141 Map R21 LA BREA TAR PITS AND MUSEUM Watch paleontologists at work uncovering Ice Age L.A. Among the main attractions are the ever-bubbling tar pits, which make up the world’s most famous fossil-excavation site. The Observation Pit was recently reopened after 20 years. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. $5-$12, under 3 free. 5801 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.934.7243 Map J13 LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART The largest art museum in the western U.S., with diverse, superb collections housed on a 20-acre campus.. M-Tu, Th 11 am-5 pm; F 11 am-8 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-7 pm. $10-$15, under 18 free. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6000 Map J13 MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART Premier contemporary-art museum housed in three facilities. GA and GC: M, W, F 11 am-6 pm; Th 11 am-8 pm; Sa-Su 11 am-5 pm. PDC: F 11 am-5 pm; Sa-Su 11 am-6 pm. $6-$12, under 12 free; free at PDC. MOCA Grand Avenue (GA), 250 S. Grand Ave., downtown; Geffen Contemporary (GC), 152 N. Central Ave., downtown; MOCA Gallery at Pacific Design Center (PDC), 8687 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 213.626.6222 Map H16, H17, I12 MUSEUM OF TOLERANCE Exhibits on prejudice and discrimination, legacy of the Holocaust, humanrights issues and Anne Frank’s life and legacy. Su-W, F 10 am-5 pm; Th 10 am-9:30 pm (extended hours for Anne only). $11.50-$15.50, under 5 free. 9786 W. Pico Blvd., L.A., 310.553.8403 Map J11
C T 31 ROUGH O NOW TH ADMISSION $5 + ZOO FITH PARK IN GRIF LOCATED , FREE PARKING ILY OPEN DA OO.ORG/DINOS A L Z
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY Thirty-three million objects, from dinosaur fossils to fish. The 3.5-acre Nature Gardens, interactive Nature Lab and Tyrannosaurus rex growth series exhibit
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SHOPPING
THE GRAMMY MUSEUM® & FAB FOUR EXHIBITS PRESENT
© The Bob Bonis Archive www.BobBonis.com
are highlights. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. $5-$12, under 3 free. 900 Exposition Blvd., Exposition Park, L.A., 213.763.3466 Map K15 NORTON SIMON MUSEUM Stellar collection of Renaissance to 20th-century masterworks and sculpture garden. M, W-Th noon-5 pm; F-Sa 11 am-8 pm; Su 11 am-5 pm. $9-$12; students with photo ID, under 19 free. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.449.6840 Map Q19 PETERSEN AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM Newly renovated museum displays some 135 vintage cars, trucks and motorcycles in permanent and rotating exhibits. Daily 10 am-6 pm. $7-$15, under 3 free. Vault tours $20, under 13 not admitted. 6060 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.930.2277 Map J13
Shopping Destinations THE AMERICANA AT BRAND Downtown Glendale hot spot from the creators of the Grove with Main Street, U.S.A., atmosphere and trolley. Some 90 stores including Kate Spade, new Toms and Topshop Topman, and dining options including Din Tai Fung and Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina. 889 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.637.8900 Map U23 BEVERLY CENTER Trendsetting mall near West Hollywood, undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation, has more than 100 boutiques (Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, True Religion concept store, Uniqlo, Cos) and is anchored by Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s. 8500 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.854.0070 Map I12
www.grammymuseum.org GRAMMY Museum® and the Museum logo are registered trademarks of The Recording Academy® and are used under license.
CITADEL OUTLETS Assyrian architecture south of downtown stands out along the Golden State (5) Freeway; the center offers discounted clothes from Kate Spade, H&M, Banana Republic, Levi’s and Converse, to name just a few. 100 Citadel Drive, L.A., 323.888.1724 Map B4 FIGAT7TH Center features hip eateries such as Loteria Grill, Mendocino Farms, the Melt and City Tavern and Sprinkles Cupcakes, plus shops including City Target, Zara and H&M. Retail M-F 10 am-9 pm, Sa-Su 10 am-7 pm; dining M-F 11 am-9 pm, Sa-Su 11 am-7 pm 735 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.955.7150 Map H16 THE GROVE Popular outdoor center has some 40 shops including Apple, Nordstrom, Sephora and Brandy Melville, plus restaurants including Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill, all in a setting that suggests a grand old downtown. Movie theater, trolley and dancing fountain are draws. Adjacent to Original Farmers Market. 189 The Grove Drive, L.A., 888.315.8883 Map I13 HOLLYWOOD & HIGHLAND Home of the Academy Awards’ Dolby Theatre. Tinseltown-themed center features restaurants, a cinema, high-tech bowling lanes, stores and Ohm nightclub. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.6412 Map H13 ONE COLORADO Quaint outdoor plaza with upscale boutiques such as OSKA, Cop. Copine, Mohawk General Store and Sugarfina, plus iPic Theaters and restaurants including Sushi Roku. 41 Hugus Alley, Old Pasadena, 626.564.1066 Map Q19
There’s always something new to see and learn at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Touch sharks. Feed lorikeet birds. Watch penguins play. over 11,000 animals await you. Don’t miss our new exhibit Horses and Dragons. 562.590.3100 100 AquArium WAy, Long BeAch, cA 90802
SANTA MONICA PLACE Sleek outdoor mall at south end of Third Street Promenade anchored by Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. More than 80 boutiques, plus a rooftop Dining Deck and new ArcLight Cinemas. 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, 310.394.1049 Map L8 SOUTH COAST PLAZA High-end center in Orange County boasts nearly 300 boutiques (Chanel, Gucci, Chloé, Jimmy Choo, Christian Dior, Tadashi Shoji), 30 restaurants and several spas. Concierge at four locations. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map E6
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BEACHES THIRD STREET PROMENADE Pedestrian-only shopping zone includes trendy shops, kiosks and an array of entertaining street performers. 1351 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, 310.393.8355 Map L8
DOWNTOWN TO RODEO DRIVE IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE
TWO RODEO Center with cobblestones in the heart of Beverly Hills features high-end boutiques including Jimmy Choo and Tiffany & Co., plus restaurant 208 Rodeo and fine-art gallery Galerie Michael. 9478 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.247.7 040 Map J11 WESTFIELD AT LAX Retail and dining options curated by Westfield (Fred Segal, MAC Cosmetics, Wolfgang Puck, Spanx, SeaLegs Wine Bar, Porsche Design, Rock & Brews) available to travelers flying out of LAX’S Tom Bradley International Terminal, as well as terminals 1, 2, 3 and 6. 380 World Way, L.A., 310.646.1770, westfieldatlax.com Map O10
Beaches HERMOSA BEACH Two-mile stretch of beach along Santa Monica Bay extending toward the Palos Verdes Peninsula with combination bike path/boardwalk and pier. Metered street parking. Hermosa Avenue and 33rd Street, Hermosa Beach Map L13 MALIBU BEACH 167-acre beach includes Malibu Pier, Malibu Lagoon and a museum that highlights the area’s history. 23050 and 23200 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu Map northwest of K9 MALIBU SURFRIDER BEACH World-renowned surfing area. Swimming areas are limited. 23050 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu Map northwest of K9 MANHATTAN BEACH Beach is bisected by a 900-foot pier. Beach-volleyball nets extend to Hermosa Beach. Metered street and lot parking. 400-4500 The Strand, Manhattan Beach Map L13 POINT DUME BEACH Beach is bordered by cliffs and is one of the most beautiful along the L.A. coastline. 7103 Westward Beach Road, Malibu Map northwest of K9 SANTA MONICA STATE BEACH Wide, sandy expanses divided by Santa Monica Pier. 100-2900 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica Map M8
OUE Skyspace LA brings to life unparalleled, 360-degree views on California’s tallest open-air observation deck, nearly 1,000 feet above Downtown Los Angeles. Experience the Skyslide, a 45-foot, fully enclosed, all glass adventure landing on the exterior of the iconic US Bank Tower. On your way to the top, engage with an array of technological features on the 54th floor, highlighting LA’s cultural attractions.
NOW OPEN BUY TICKETS
VENICE CITY BEACH Boardwalk with street performers and shops is one of SoCal’s biggest attractions. The north end is home to “Muscle Beach.” Beach wheelchairs available. 2700-3100 Ocean Front Walk, Venice Map N9 WILL ROGERS STATE BEACH Sandy 3-mile beach is starting point for the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. Popular for swimming and skin diving; volleyball courts. Beach wheelchairs available. 17700 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades Map K7
LA’S NEWEST AT TRACTION
SKYSPACE-LA.COM | 213.894.9000 |
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ZUMA BEACH The ultimate SoCal beach. Food stands at each end of its 4-mile expanse along PCH. Beach wheelchairs available. 30000 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu Map northwest of K7
Tours + Transport AMTRAK Train and bus service within the county, along the coast and to major California locations. Nationwide connections, multiple-day rail passes. Stations in Burbank, downtown (Union Station), Long Beach, Pasadena and Van Nuys. The Coast Starlight connects L.A. to Ventura, Santa Barbara, the Bay Area, Portland and Seattle. 800.872.7245, amtrak.com BEVERLY HILLS RENT-A-CAR Luxury and exotic rentals. 9732 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.274.6969; 6085 Venice Blvd., Hollywood, 310.659.5555; LAX, 9220 S. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A., 310.670.2020, bhrentacar.com Map K12, J11, O10
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THE FUN STARTS HERE!
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MULTILINGUAL COMMENTARY
citysightseeingla.com
@starlinetours
1-800-959-3131 • 1-323-463-3333 Main Starline Terminal is at TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., 90028 Santa Monica Terminal is at 1434 2nd St., Santa Monica 90401 Anaheim Terminal is at M3 Live, 2232 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim 92802
5
$
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OFF PER PERSON FOR ANY TOUR TICKETS*
SPECIAL WHERE OFFER Including Movie Stars Homes, Grand Tour of LA, Hollywood Trolley Tour, Hop-On Hop-Off Double Decker Tour, Disneyland, Warner Bros VIP Tour & more!
*VALID FOR ANY STARLINE TOUR EXCLUDING “SPECIALS”. HOTEL PICK-UPS AVAILABLE. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER DISCOUNT. NOT VALID FOR ONLINE RESERVATIONS OR PRIOR BOOKINGS.VALID ONLY FOR CUSTOMERS WHO PURCHASE TICKETS DIRECTLY AT STARLINE KIOSK AT CHINESE THEATRE OR CONTACT STARLINE DIRECTLY AT 1-323-463-3333 OR 1-800-959-3131. VALID THROUGH 9/30/16.
7/12/16 1:26 PM
TO U R S + T R A N S P O RT BIKES AND HIKES L.A. Top-rated tour company offers biking and/or hiking tours in customizable or preset itineraries. Daily tours include L.A. in a Day, Movie Star and Hollywood bike tours, daily a.m. or sunset hikes. Advance reservation required. Daily 9 am-5 pm. 8743 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.796.8555, bikeshikes.com Map H12 CATALINA EXPRESS Year-round boat service to Catalina Island. Up to 30 daily departures from Long Beach, Dana Point, San Pedro. Reservation recommended. Ride Free on Your Birthday program saves up to $74 round trip. Call or check website for hours, (lowered) pricing and details about additional “Birthday Island” specials on Catalina. 800.481.3470, catalinaexpress.com DELISH TOURS Culinary tour of five of the best “hidden gem” restaurants in Venice Beach features tastings of Hawaiian ahi poke, Brazilian acai bowls and more. Reservation required. Private tours available. F-Su 11 am-2 pm; private tours offered daily. $65. Westminster Avenue and Ocean Front Walk, Venice, 323.412.9077, delishtours.com Map N9 DODGER STADIUM TOUR Behind-the-scenes tour of the legendary stadium allows guests to visit the field and the dugout, walk through the Vin Scully Press Box and get an exclusive look at the Lexus Dugout Club, the VIP restaurant and lounge hidden behind home plate. $15-$20, under 4 free. 1000 Elysian Park Ave., downtown, 866.363.4377 Map G17
Millions of lives have been touched by the man simply known as “Ron” to his many friends. Fully professional in over 29 fields, his life was a constant adventure.Walk through the chapters of his life at the L. Ron Hubbard Life Exhibition. Located at 6331 Hollywood Boulevard. Call 323-960-3511 for advance scheduling. WW WWW.LRONHUBBARD.ORG
HORNBLOWER CRUISES & EVENTS Dine, dance and take in beautiful harbor views aboard one of Hornblower’s cruises. Choose from dinner and Champagne brunch options. Fisherman’s Village, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, 888.467.6256, hornblower.com Map O9 METRO City bus, light rail and subway. Rail lines connect downtown, Hollywood, Pasadena, Long Beach; underground Red Line from Union Station through Hollywood to San Fernando Valley; Gold Line from Union Station to East L.A and through Pasadena to Azusa; Blue Line from downtown to Long Beach; Green Line from Norwalk to Redondo Beach; Expo Line from Santa Monica to downtown. 323.466.3876, metro.net METROLINK Regional train system connects Los Angeles County with Ventura, Orange and San Diego counties. Six of seven Metrolink rail lines (including the Orange County lines, San Bernardino lines and Ventura County lines) begin at Union Station in downtown Los Angeles. 800.371.5465, metrolinktrains.com STARLINE TOURS Hollywood’s largest celebritytour company offers Movie Stars’ Homes tour plus tours to beaches, theme parks, San Diego and more. The CitySightseeing double-decker hop-on, hopoff tour has more than 70 stops around L.A. Prices vary. Tours begin at TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 800.959.3131, starlinetours.com Map H13
TMZ CELEBRITY TOUR, HOLLYWOOD Two-hour bus tour highlights celebrity hot spots in Hollywood, Beverly Hills and on the Sunset Strip, brought to life with videos from TMZ’s on-air stories and the occasional star sighting. Songs, games and prizes provide entertainment along the way. See website for pickup locations, schedule, pricing. 844.TMZ.TOUR (869.8687), tmztour.com
where? LOG ON ANYWHERE. SOCALPULSE.COM
#HowDoYouMuseum
A NEW WAY TO
DIG IT TARPITS.ORG
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GO METRO Despite what you may have heard, you can get to many Los Angeles attractions without a car. Metro is the nation’s third-largest public transportation agency, operating 2,200 buses and six rail lines, including a subway that can take you from downtown to Hollywood in about 15 minutes. Whether you’re interested in seeing stars along the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame, catching rays at Santa Monica Beach or touring any number of L.A. landmarks, Metro can take you there.
Where to Start
Use the Trip Planner at metro.net or call 323.GO.METRO for customized travel itineraries. Note that some popular attractions served by Metro Rail are listed to the right.
Fares
Metro’s base fare is $1.75. It’s best to pay using a TAP card, a reloadable plastic card that can store Metro passes or individual rides. TAP cards cost $1 and are available from self-service vending machines at Metro Rail stations, or onboard buses with the purchase of a 1-Day Pass. For complete information, check metro.net/fares.
Metro Rail Destinations
Here’s a sampling of attractions that are within easy walking distance of Metro Rail stations: METRO RED/PURPLE LINE Union Station • Olvera Street
Civic Center/Grand Park • Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels • Museum of Contemporary Art • Music Center • Walt Disney Concert Hall • Grand Park 7th Street/Metro Center • Macy’s Plaza (dining, shops) • FIGat7th (dining, shops) Hollywood/Vine • Capitol Records Tower • Hollywood Walk of Fame • Pantages Theatre Hollywood/Highland • TCL Chinese Theatre • Hollywood & Highland (dining, shops) Universal City/Studio City • Universal CityWalk (dining, shops) • Universal Studios Hollywood
Two children under the age of 5 may travel free with each fare-paying adult. Eating and drinking is not permitted on any Metro bus or train.
North Hollywood • El Portal Theatre • NoHo Arts District (dining, shops, theatres)
Hours
METRO BLUE LINE
Most bus and rail lines start around 4 a.m. and keep running past midnight. But they’re less frequent in the late evening, so check the timetables at metro.net regarding your return trip.
Pico • Los Angeles Convention Center • STAPLES Center/L.A. LIVE 103rd Street/Watts Tower • Watts Towers Downtown Long Beach • Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific • Pine Avenue (dining, shops) • Queen Mary
METRO GOLD LINE
Little Tokyo/Arts District • Japanese American National Museum • The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA Memorial Park • Norton Simon Museum Lake • Pasadena Playhouse
METRO EXPO LINE
Expo Park/USC • California Science Center • Natural History Museum SEE THE METRO ROUTE MAP ON PAGE 95
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Assembly’s vintage-denim shift, at the brand’s Melrose Avenue shop. 323.746.5090
Bowling at The Spare Room wearing natty Esquivel bowling shoes. 323.769.7296
Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne’s Food + Wine program at the Hollywood Bowl. p. 81
The extended Metro Expo Line linking downtown L.A. “to the sea” in Santa Monica. p. 95
The sweeping Cindy Sherman: Imitation of Life special exhibition at The Broad. p. 82
Handmade pasta at Miro downtown. 213.988.8880
Jovani’s first U.S. store, on trendy Robertson Boulevard. 213.805.5202
The glass slide and panoramic view at OUE Skyspace L.A. in the U.S. Bank building downtown. p. 82
Cinespia’s ‘80s-themed Movies All Night at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Aug. 13. p. 81 Cult Gaia and Cult Guy’s Beverly Hills Hotel-inspired banana-leaf print. cultgaia.com
Strappy sandals by Schutz in Beverly Hills. 310.435.9669 Grand Central Market’s new Summer Nights schedule, with food, films and music until 10 p.m. 213.624.2378
Faith & Flower’s deviled Jidori eggs. 213.239.0642
‘Shroom Burgers at Shake Shack in West Hollywood. 323.488.3010
The Electric Daisy cocktail at new 1212 restaurant in Santa Monica. 310.576.9996
The stone-fruit salad at Mardi Restaurant in Palihouse West Hollywood. 323.656.4020
Films from American Beauty to Zootopia at Rooftop Cinema Club, screened atop the the Montalbán in Hollywood. rooftopcinemaclub.com Dining outdoors at Otium, next to the Broad museum. p. 27 Oakley limited-edition Green Fade Collection shades, available at the brand’s Santa Monica store. 310.260.3962
The Vatican Splendors exhibition, at the Reagan Library through Aug. 28. p. 82
restaurant at Mama Shelter in Hollywood. p. 64
The Americana at Brand’s new Toms store, featuring a cool virtual-reality station and “onefor-one” shoes. 818.637.7844
McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream’s pecan praline and whiskey ice cream. p. 15
Smorgasburg, downtown’s hip new outdoor food and crafts market. la.smorgasburg.com
Meticulous, European-style facials at Thibiant Beverly Hills. 310.278.7565
where in the world
The view from the rooftop
WHERE is an international network of magazines first published in 1936 and distributed in 4,000 leading hotels in more than 50 places around the world. Look for us when you visit any of the following cities, or plan ahead for your next trip by visiting us online at wheretraveler.com UNITED STATES Alaska, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Georgia, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, Minneapolis/St. Paul,
Mani-pedis and polishes by the “First Lady of Nails” at the relaunched Jessica—The Clinic. 310.659.9292 The pop-up shop from L.A. fashion brand Bailey44, featuring a Blushington shop-in-shop, at the Malibu Lumber Yard. 213.228.1930 Sunday brunching at Alma at The Standard. 323.822.3131 The Dueling Pistolas cocktail at Ivory on Sunset. p. 27 Vilebrequin’s collaboration with the Rolling Stones on a rockin’ men’s swimwear collection. 310.899.8576
New Orleans, New York, Northern Virginia, Oahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix/Scottsdale, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, South Florida, St. Louis, Tampa, Washington, D.C. ASIA Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore AUSTRALIA Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne CANADA Calgary, Canadian Rockies, Edmonton, Halifax, Muskoka/Parry Sound, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Winnipeg EUROPE Budapest, London, Milan, Moscow, Paris, Rome, St. Petersburg
8, COURTESY MCCONNELL’S FINE ICE CREAM; 11, COURTESY SCHUTZ; 14, CHRISTINA XENOS; 20, SIERRA PRESCOTT; 27, COURTESY BAILEY44; 29, MARIE BUCK
WHERE 30 THINGS WE LOVE / los
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Barneys New York Barneys New York Bloomingdale’s Bloomingdale’s Coach Coach DVF DVF Emporio Armani Emporio Armani Hugo Boss Hugo Boss Kate Spade New York Kate Spade New York Karen Millen Karen Millen Louis Vuitton Louis Vuitton Nordstrom Nordstrom Spanx Spanx The Kooples The Kooples Tiffany && Co. Tiffany Co. Tory Burch Tory Burch && many more many more
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