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MARCH 2015 WHERELA.COM
Los Angeles
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WHAT’S NEW Idle Hour, Terrine and Love & Salt
WHAT’S ON
Cinderella, Turner and costume design
WHAT’S HOT Sizzling new steakhouses
GO LOCAL
FOUR L.A. TASTEMAKERS GIVE US A TOUR OF THEIR FAVORITE NEIGHBORHOODS
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L os An g e l e s ’ Be s t - K e p t S e c re t
GALERIE W H E R E
T H E
MICHAEL
M A S T E R S
R E S I D E
On Rodeo Drive For Thirty Years 224 North Rodeo Drive | 2 Rodeo Drive Building | Beverly Hills, CA 90210 310.273.3377 | art@galeriemichael.com | /galeriemichael.com Monday to Saturday 10 am - 7 pm | Sunday 11 am - 5 pm OLD MASTERS | MODERN MASTERS | 19th CENTURY PAINTING | CONTEMPORARY
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BURBERRY DOLCE & GABBANA FENDI GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI GUCCI HUGO BOSS JIMMY CHOO LOUIS VUITTON MONTBLANC OMEGA PRADA SAINT LAURENT SALVATORE FERRAGAMO TIFFANY & CO. VERSACE COLLECTION Z ZEGNA
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where los angeles
03.15
CONTENTS
THE NEIGHBORHOOD ISSUE
departments
the guide
8 Editor’s Letter
60 DINING Restaurants by cuisine and neighborhood
Local lore.
10 Hot Dates
76 ENTERTAINMENT Special events, performing arts and sports
Paleyfest breaks TV’s fourth wall, plus food, garden, sports, theater and arts events make March a month of must-do’s.
78 ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS Theme parks, activities, studio tapings, exhibitions and more
96 30 Things We Love Jaunty fashions, spinning chairs, a fizzy drink and other upbeat offerings that are putting the spring in our step.
83 SHOPPING The county’s major retail destinations 84 NIGHTLIFE Buzzy bars and cool clubs
where now 12 Dining + Nightlife
86 BEACHES Sandy stops along L.A.’s coastline
Hungry? Thirsty? Fill up at new Terrine in West Hollywood, Love & Salt in Manhattan Beach and Idle Hour in North Hollywood.
88 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, getting around and getting to know Los Angeles
14 Culture
CITY TOURS
Downtown, Cinderella sings at the Ahmanson and film fashions star at FIDM’s Art of Motion Picture Costume Design. Plus, the Getty lets in the light with J.M.W. Turner: Painting Set Free.
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L’Assiette Steak Frites’ signature dish
16 Shopping Italian fashion brand Moschino brings its crazy-popular, pop-culture crazy designs to West Hollywood.
features
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18 Welcome to the Neighborhood ON THE COVER Grand Central Market, where locals and visitors mingle in downtown L.A. Photo by Amparo Rios.
Four notable locals—designer Trina Turk, barman Julian Cox, Moon Juice founder Amanda Chantal Bacon and chef Jet Tila—take us on a tour of their favorite neighborhood spots. BY MARINA CHETNER
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24 Steak It Out Chalk it up to high-protein diets or nostalgia, but L.A. is experiencing a resurgence of steakhouses. Check out these prime new spots heating up the local dining scene. BY JAMES BARTLETT
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where M AG A Z INE
CITADEL OUTLETS
LA’S CHOICE FOR OUTLET SHOPPING Find out what’s behind the wall at Citadel Outlets and save 30-70% off full retail from over 130 of your favorite brand name stores.
PUBLISHER EDITOR
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ART DIRECTOR
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Welcome
A note from the editor
$100
4 famous theme parks
LOCAL LORE An oft-repeated, variously attributed and probably misquoted quip about 3-Day Park Hopper® to Disneyland® Park and Disney California Adventure® Park
Los Angeles is that it’s 72 suburbs in search of a city. While the source may be unclear, the undercurrent of snark is not. I would argue, however, that L.A.’s panoply of neighborhoods (which the Los Angeles Times says numbers 272 across the county, 114 in the city alone, thank you very much) is one of its greatest strengths. From Acton
Universal Studios HollywoodSM
to Woodland Hills, each neighborhood has distinct characteristics and communities that give it an identity; each neighborhood has its locals, its favorite spots, its homegrown pride (maybe some more so than others, but you get the point). Put them all together, and you’ve got a diverse and rich metropolitan area that’s perfectly happy not to define itself in relation to a single concentrated hub. That being said, since there’s so much to see, I get that L.A. can be a little daunting unless you have a
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local to show you around. That’s why at Where, we try to be that local for you, ferreting out the best new restaurants, the hole-in-the-wall gems, the shops you won’t find anywhere else and the shows you’ve gotta see. In Welcome to the Neighborhood (p. 18) we went a step further, asking four local tastemakers to share their favorite spots, too. (Don’t you always want to know where the most fashionable women shop and the best chefs eat on their days off? I sure do.) You may have just arrived in L.A., but we hope that with our help, you’ll leave feeling like
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you were born here. —SUZANNE ENNIS
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WHERE CALENDAR MARCH 2015 Search the full calendar at wherela.com
HOT DATES
Top Stops
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN L.A.’S ARTS & CULTURE SCENE
MARCH 8, 11, 14, 19, 22 FIGARO! FIGARO! L.A. Opera continues its Figaro initiative with The Barber of Seville at the Ahmanson. p. 78 OPENING MARCH 10 AT SEA LEVEL See the oldest-known copies of the Hebrew Bible at the California Science Center’s Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit. p. 81 MARCH 22, 24 PIANO FORTE First Lang Lang, then Yuja Wang, bring their charisma and superstar piano skills to Walt Disney Concert Hall. p. 78
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FUN EVENTS NOT TO BE MISSED
1 PPLA FOOD FARE > MARCH 5 What began as a cooking demonstration by Julia Child celebrates its 36th anniversary with food, drink, shopping and fun at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. p. 76
HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Go to WhereLA.com for the Weekend Roundup, where you can get the lowdown on the coolest festivals, performingarts events, dining promotions and more.
2 LOS ANGELES MARATHON > MARCH 15 The 30th edition of the 26.2-mile footrace takes runners from Dodger Stadium to Santa Monica. Run for yourself or cheer from the sidelines. p. 76 3 ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL > MARCH 17 Raise a toast to the patron saint of Ireland amid corned beef, drink specials and DJ sets at Casey’s 42nd annual St. Patrick’s Day Street Festival, downtown. p. 76
4 THEODORE PAYNE NATIVE PLANT GARDEN TOUR > MARCH 21-22 Ogle botanical wonders like the scene pictured left during this weekend of self-guided tours. p. 76 5 CICLAVIA—THE VALLEY > MARCH 22 The popular open-streets event makes its inaugural visit to the San Fernando Valley, clearing a car-free route for walkers, skaters and cyclists from North Hollywood to Studio City. p. 76 6 NCAA MEN’S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP > MARCH 26, 28 March Madness hits downtown when the NCAA tournament’s West Regional brings top teams to Staples Center. p. 78 7 TCM CLASSIC FILM FESTIVAL > MARCH 26-29 Catch films like Roman Holiday and Doctor Zhivago at iconic venues in the heart of Hollywood (see listing for theaters). p. 76
OPENING MARCH 27 TRADESIES In Tête-à-tête, the Norton Simon Museum displays three masterpieces from the Musée d’Orsay—notably the iconic portrait of Whistler’s mother. p. 83 ALL MONTH AMAZING BY DESIGN The Hammer Museum’s Provocations spotlights the architectural eye candy of Heatherwick Studio, like the Olympic Cauldron below. p. 82
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: KEVIN PARRY FOR PALEY CENTER FOR MEDIA; EDMUND SUMNER
MARCH 6-15 SMALL-SCREEN STARGAZING The Paley Center’s annual Paleyfest—a collection of interactive panels and premiere screenings—is the can’t-miss event of the year for TV lovers. Hear stars and creators of fan-favorite shows and critical darlings alike share insider knowledge about their programs, including Homeland, Girls and Jane the Virgin, at Dolby Theatre. This year’s fest also features a special salute to Comedy Central. p. 76
OPENING MARCH 24 EXTRA! EXTRA! Direct from Broadway, Disney’s Tony-winning Newsies has audiences singing at the Pantages in Hollywood. p. 78
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los angeles
THE BEST IN NIGHTLIFE, DINING, CULTURE AND SHOPPING
NIGHTLIFE+DINING
Idle No More Bobby Green’s 1933 Group is known for creating fine cocktails and a nostalgic feel in its popular bars—Bigfoot Lodge, Harlowe and Sassafras among them. With its latest project, Idle Hour, the group is at it again, this time inside a bona fide piece of Los Angeles architectural history. What was originally the Idle Hour Café opened in 1941, with a barrel-shaped center designed to catch the eye of passing motorists. Today the North Hollywood landmark is one of L.A.’s last remaining examples of “programmatic architecture,” or buildings that look like objects. Thanks to the 1933 Group’s painstaking renovation, the barrel is open for business once more, serving whiskey cocktails and draft craft beers alongside creative American cuisine. Throwing a party? Rent out the Bulldog Café (which, naturally, is in the shape of a pipe-smoking bulldog), located on Idle Hour’s patio. 4824 N. Vineland Ave., L.A., 818.980.5600, idlehourbar.com
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Caramelized fennel with burrata, peperonata and white anchovy at Love & Salt in Manhattan Beach
Essential Ingredients
TOP, ANDREA BRICCO; BOTTOM, RYAN TANAKA. OPPOSITE: FOREST CASEY
When Café Pierre closed last year, longtime customers of Guy and Sylvie Gabriele’s Manhattan Beach restaurant were heartbroken. But now there’s reason to celebrate: The father-daughter duo have reopened it with a fresh concept and partnership with executive chef Michael Fiorelli (formerly of Terranea Resort). Christened Love & Salt, the spot is a convivial addition to the beach city’s burgeoning dining scene, serving such creative Cal-Italian fare as duck-egg pizza with pancetta, panna, potato and rosemary, and a roasted glazed pig’s head. Guy Gabriele’s wine list is equally sophisticated (connoisseurs, ask to see the little black book of his choice vintages). The temptation is to overindulge on the homemade English muffins, but trust us: You want to save some room for chef de cuisine/ pastry chef Rebecca Merhej’s desserts. 317 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5252, loveandsaltla.com
A BRASSERIE FOR BEVERLY Dine on seasonal California fare inspired by French classics at Terrine, a new brasserie from chef Kris Morningstar (Ray’s and Stark Bar), restaurateur Stephane Bombet (Faith & Flower) and managing partner and wine director François Renaud. Morningstar serves such “pièces de
résistance” as agnolotti with truffled rice filling, hen of the wood mushrooms, hazelnuts and parmesan, as well as choucroute garnie with house sausage, pork loin, crispy jowl, shank and housemade kraut. Other temptations include “Les Pizzas” cooked in a wood-burning oven adja-
cent to the bar, and fish and chips that the menu proclaims are the city’s best. Contemplate your options while sipping a cocktail in the bustling dining room or, better yet, on the idyllic garden patio, beneath a tree strung with twinkly lights. 8265 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.746.5130, terrinela.com
Terrine’s pâté de campagne
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angeles
A scene from the national tour of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella
CULTURE
If the Shoe Fits It’s going to be a magical March: Coinciding with the release of the new live-action Disney movie about the princess, Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella arrives at the Ahmanson Theatre on March 17. The legendary creators of The Sound of Music first wrote the
musical for TV, with Julie Andrews starring in the title role back in 1957. In 2013, Cinderella finally made its Broadway premiere, earning a Tony for best costumes. An enlightened take on the classic story, the live iteration of the rags-toriches tale reimagines
FILM & FABRIC
Influential British painter J.M.W. Turner (1775–1851), known as the “painter of light,” produced his most important and famous pictures after the age of 60, in the last 15 years of his life. The major international loan exhibition J.M.W. Turner: Painting Set Free, at the Getty Museum through May 24 and organized chiefly by Tate Britain, is the first major exhibition on the West Coast devoted to the artist, as well as the first to focus on his later years. See more than 60 key oil paintings and watercolors that demonstrate Turner’s ongoing radicalism of technique and ever-original subject matter. p. 81 J.M.W. Turner, Mercury and Argus (before 1836)
Cinderella as a savvy, contemporary woman who wishes to make the world a better place. The production arrives in L.A. with a cast of musical veterans, beloved songs like “Impossible/It’s Possible,” glass slippers, a pumpkin and a ball—plus some surprising plot twists. p. 76
Costumes from 2014’s top films, as well as the talented designers who created them, are celebrated in the 23rd annual Art of Motion Picture Costume Design exhibition, at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising’s Museum & Galleries through April 25. On view are more than 100 costumes from 23 motion pictures, including Maleficent (Anna B. Sheppard and Jane Clive; dress pictured left), The Grand Budapest Hotel (Milena Canonero) and Into the Woods and Big Eyes (Colleen Atwood), as well as last year’s Academy Award winner for best costume design, The Great Gatsby (Catherine Martin). p. 81
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: CAROL ROSEGG; COURTESY NATIONAL GALLERY OF CANADA, OTTAWA; COURTESY FIDM
PAINTER OF LIGHT
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angeles
SHOPPING
Pop, Shop & Roll
NATALIA KNEZEVIC PHOTOGRAPHY
When the first L.A. flagship of Italian fashion brand Moschino opened in the West Hollywood Design District in January, the mood seemed to lighten across the land. Brimming with pop-culture references (Barbie and McDonald’s are recent inspirations) and embracing a brighter-is-better palette, creative director Jeremy Scott’s designs are nothing if not fun. What’s serious is the devotion of his fan base, which includes Katy Perry and Miley Cyrus. Find the Moschino Couture RTW collections, plus accessories, swimwear, fragrance and more inside the vast, light-filled store, which can be reconfigured with each new collection. “I wanted an open gallery space that would be a blank canvas for my collections,” says Scott. “I hope that people will love the environment, to come in and want to hang out.” 8933 Beverly Blvd., West Hollywood, 818.827.5700, moschino.com
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L.A.’s quintessentiAL
sh o p p i ng exp e r i e nc e 150 Premier Boutiques, 30 Inspired Restaurants and Refined Open-air Surroundings
10250 Santa Monica Blvd. loS angeleS, ca 90067 | 310.277.3898 | WeStfield.coM
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WELCOME to the
NEIGHBORHOOD by MARINA CHETNER
Los Angeles’ neighborhoods are full of hidden gems, but it’s no easy feat discovering them on your own. We enlisted the help of tastemaking locals to share their insider tips on where to eat and shop; what to do; and where to glean some of that star-worthy sheen. Thanks to designer Trina Turk, barman Julian Cox, alchemist Amanda Chantal Bacon and celebrity chef Jet Tila, we’ve got the best of L.A. covered.
SILVER LAKE
»Trina Turk
T
rina Turk’s designs epitomize effortless SoCal chic. A California native, Turk draws on the state’s mix of cultures, art, architecture and landscapes to inform her contemporary aesthetic. At her eponymous boutiques, which include locations in Manhattan Beach and on West 3rd Street, Turk’s ready-to-wear collections, accessories, bags, shoes and home wares create a kaleidoscopic display infused with bold colors, retro prints, classic lines and beautiful fabrics. The avid vintage shopper and traveler always has her finger on the pulse of what’s cool, so we were rapt when she shared her favorite under-the-radar spots around her neighborhood of Silver Lake.
I love the little strip of Silver Lake Boulevard for its chic assortment of carefully curated boutiques. If you need a gift for a design-oriented person who has almost everything, or that perfect decorative accessory for your coffee table, you’ll find it here. Lawson-Fenning’s eastside shop offers vintage furniture and home decor with an organic modernist vibe mixed with pieces from their eponymous collection, available to order. Yolk is run by expat Swede Maria Neuman and focuses on Scandinavian design with a sprinkling of local products. The yellow Yolk logo is cheerful and bright, as are the contents of the store, which includes stuff
From top: Scandinavian design shop Yolk; manipedi supplies at Kure Spa
for kids. Rubbish Interiors is the showroom for interior designer Scott Mangan. Lots of chinoiserie and touches of brass mixed with swanky items that would be right at home in a cool ’70s bachelor pad. Lake Boutique has a little bit of everything: clothing with that “I’m artfully disheveled and not trying too hard” look from labels like Isabel Marant and Pomandère, apothecary items from La Compagnie de Provence, dainty jewelry and bright John Derian poufs. Right at Sunset Junction, Mohawk
General Store carries one of my favorite designers, Dries Van Noten, along with Raquel Allegra and clean basics from Samuji.
»EAT
If you need a shot of caffeine to make it down this 3-block stretch, stop at LAMILL Coffee for a delicious cup. Brunch and sweets, too! Intelligentsia coffee is where I go for my morning pick-me-up. My husband, Jonathan, and I like to sit on the sidewalk at Millie’s Cafe on Sunset [Boulevard] for a low-frills, delicious weekend
SIDEBAR, COURTESY TRINA TURK. OPPOSITE: BOTTOM RIGHT, COURTESY LAWSON-FENNING
»SHOP
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SIDEBAR, COURTESY TRINA TURK. OPPOSITE: BOTTOM RIGHT, COURTESY LAWSON-FENNING
From top: Intelligentsia in Silver Lake; an interior by Lawson-Fenning
breakfast—I always have the spinach and feta scramble. The parade of dog walkers and locals adds Silver Lake personality.
»DO
Take a Pop Physique class! It’s similar to a ballet barre class based on the Lotte Berk method. Be warned—it’s challenging! Check out the Silver Lake Reservoir—the 2-mile walk provides great views of the Silver Lake hiIls, including Neutra houses where we’ve previously shot some of our campaigns. For midcentury architecture enthusiasts, the Neutra VDL House is open on most Saturdays; tours from 11 am to 3 pm.
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»
PRIMP The Raven Spa is my go-to for Thai massage—if I’m in town on the weekend, I’m there. For manis and pedis, Kure Spa has a quiet minimalist interior and is conveniently located right across the street from Silverlake Wine! Lawson-Fenning 1618 Silver Lake Blvd., 323.660.1500 Yolk 1626 Silver Lake Blvd., 323.660.4315 Rubbish Interiors, Inc. 1627 Silver Lake Blvd., 323.661.5575 Lake Boutique 1618 1/2 Silver Lake Blvd., 323.664.6522 Mohawk General Store 4011 Sunset Blvd., 323.669.1601 LAMILL Coffee 1636 Silver Lake Blvd., 323.663.4441 Intelligentsia Coffee 3922 Sunset Blvd., 323.663.6173 Millie’s Cafe
3524 Sunset Blvd., 323.664.0404 Pop Physique 3501 W. Sunset Blvd., 323.665.7777 Silver Lake Reservoir 1854-2246 Silver Lake Blvd. Neutra VDL House 2300 Silver Lake Blvd.,
neutra-vdl.org The Raven Spa 2910 Rowena Ave., 323.644.0240 Kure Spa 2378 Glendale Blvd., 323.668.1234 Silverlake Wine 2395 Glendale Blvd., 323.662.9024
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Clockwise from left: Bestia; a pastrami sandwich at Wexler’s Deli; The Springs
»Julian Cox
J
ulian Cox, named one of Food and Wine’s top mixologists, began his career behind the bar of Michelin-starred Sona and French bistro Comme Ça before blazing a trail through the city with beverage programs for such buzz-worthy restaurants as Picca, Sotto, Bestia, Petty Cash and Acabar. The “Best Bartender in L.A.” has also won two national bartending championships and been nominated for three consecutive James Beard awards for outstanding bar program. Cox is on the advisory board of the Museum of the American Cocktail and mans his flagship bar, Brilliantshine, in Santa Monica. When he’s not mixing a drink, he’s out and about in booming downtown L.A. (DTLA).
»EAT Chef Josef Centeno is super talented, and I love that his restaurant Orsa & Winston really plays to his culinary past but is also modern and progressive. I’ve been spending a lot of time at Grand Central Market, and some of my favorite stands include Belcampo, G&B Coffee and Wexler’s Deli. Another great newcomer is Andy Ricker’s Pok Pok Phat Thai LA—I’m such a fan of his Portland and Brooklyn locations. Bestia is the restaurant that launched the Arts District: a real next-level spot and great place to take a date, too. »DO
Do the Downtown L.A. Art Walk—on the second Thursday of every month—to see new work and get introduced to artists. If you’re not into art, it’s still a fascinating activity—the street is buzzing with people and great energy. I love catching shows at the Nokia Theatre L.A. Live, or a basketball game at the Staples Center. It’s a fun night out with friends and family, and always crowded. Chinatown is really up-and-coming. The little plazas are filled with tons of great restaurants, jazz clubs, bars, tea and herb shops—you name it.
»
PRIMP Salon Pure is the go-to salon for me and my DTLA guys. They give the best men’s
haircuts in the city for about $50. Worth every penny, and I refuse to go anywhere else. Los Angeles Athletic Club (LAAC) has this incredible Olympic-sized pool on the top level that you can see into through the ceiling of the floor below, and great squash courts where all the heavyhitter business guys play. The Springs—this place is awesome. It’s a totally next-level creative space with a vegan restaurant, juice bar, yoga classes and massages. An Arts District oasis.
»SHOP
I’m really glad Brooks Brothers reopened last year— they’re reliable for menswear. RIF LA in Little Tokyo is a real gem, with an incredible selection of vintage sneakers, including some of my favorite vintage Jordans. At Urban Radish you can find anything from snacks to clothing
to hair products. It’s a cool market scene and can introduce you to great natural products. Orsa & Winston 122 W. 4th St., 213.687.0300 Grand Central Market 317 S. Broadway, 213.624.2378 Pok Pok Phat Thai LA 727 N. Broadway, 213.628.3071 Bestia 2121 E. 7th Place, 213.514.5724 Downtown Art Walk 411 S. Main St., 213.617.4929 Nokia Theatre L.A. Live 777 Chick Hearn Court, 213.763.6030 Staples Center 1111 S. Figueroa St., 213.742.7100 Chinatown Central Plaza, 947 N. Broadway Salon Pure 117 E. 6th St., 213.624.7873 Los Angeles Athletic Club 431 W. 7th St., 213.625.2211 The Springs 608 Mateo St., 213.223.6226 Brooks Brothers 545 S. Figueroa St., 213.688.4072 RIF Los Angeles 334-A E. 2nd St., 213.617.0252 Urban Radish 661 Imperial St., 213.892.1570
COX, ANDY KEILEN; BESTIA, MARY COSTA; WEXLER’S DELI, JAKOB LAYMAN. OPPOSITE: SIDEBAR, COURTESY AMANDA CHANTAL BACON; ACBH, GRANT MUDFORD
DOWNTOWN L.A.
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Clockwise from top: Heist; Moon Juice Venice; Annenberg Community Beach House
VENICE »
EAT Honestly, I only eat at Moon Juice, Gjelina Take Away and Gjusta; Shima for dinner; and Kippy’s! ice cream. I love Gjelina Take Away and Gjusta bakery for their bounty of farmers market veggie sides and cortados with almond milk. Gjusta is also the perfect abode for a cloudy Venice day. Shima has a kombu and mushroom broth that’s insane. ... And Kippy’s! ice cream has my all-time favorite vegan ice cream—fresh-pressed coconut cream that is fermented into a perfect tangy yogurt. Kippy, the owner, makes a special batch for me with stevia instead of the honey ... divine.
beach, strolling the walk streets and checking out Abbot Kinney [Boulevard] and Rose Avenue, where I’ll swing by Moon Juice for an afternoon pick-me-up.
»
PRIMP Akasha Center has a great concierge service for acupuncture, massage and energy work—they will send a practitioner to your home or office. There’s nothing that gets you looking more beautiful than deep breath in the body, and I choose RA MA Yoga Institute on Lincoln [Boulevard] for this practice. RA MA is simply the best of the best, with the best. ... I have to say that my primping spots fall much more into the holistic approach of green juice, sunshine, divine skin potions, home massage and peace of mind.
»SHOP »DO
The Rustic Canyon Recreation Center is perfect for a picnic, and Annenberg Community Beach House at Santa Monica beach—a short drive or bike ride from Venice—is great if you have kids. It has restrooms, a pool and playground, as well as a wooden boardwalk that makes pushing a stroller to the beach a snap. I also like just hanging out in Venice: taking a bike ride to the
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I love Heist for luxury cozy everyday wear, Mona Moore for highly curated shoes and bags, LFrank Jewelry by Liseanne Frankfurt for the most beautiful hand-worked gold and Tortoise General Store for Japanese everyday objects as art. Visit General Store on Lincoln for gifts.
320 Sunset Ave., 310.314.0320 Shima 1432 Abbot Kinney Blvd., 310.314.0882 Kippy’s! 326 Lincoln Blvd., 310.399.4871 Rustic Canyon Recreation Center 601 Latimer Road, Santa Monica, 310.454.5734 Annenberg Community Beach House 415 Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica, 310.458.4904 Akasha Center 520 Arizona Ave., 310.451.8880 RA MA Yoga Institute 304 Lincoln Blvd., 310.664.3700 Heist 1100 Abbot Kinney Blvd., 310.450.6531 Mona Moore (new location) 222 Main St., 310.452.4070 LFrank Jewelry (new location) 226 Main St., 310.452.0771 Tortoise General Store 1208 Abbot Kinney Blvd., 310.314.8448 General Store 1801 Lincoln Blvd., 310.751.6393
»Amanda Chantal Bacon
T
he high priestess of natural living embodies the L.A. wellness ethos beautifully. Amanda Chantal Bacon is the owner of three Moon Juice shops (in Silver Lake, Venice and at Ace Hotel Downtown L.A.), which stock cold-pressed organic elixirs, raw-sprouted snacks, “beauty dusts” and alchemical tonics made from medicinal-grade ingredients including reishi, pearl and goji. She recently collaborated with Gwyneth Paltrow on the actress’ website, GOOP; has landed a two-book deal with editor Pamela Krauss of Penguin Random House; and can always be counted on for uplifting advice via Moon Juice’s Instagram and Facebook feeds. This hardworking mom to 3-year-old son Rohan knows all of the best spots to refresh and unwind in Venice.
Moon Juice 507 Rose Ave., 310.399.2929 Gjelina Take Away 1427 Abbot Kinney Blvd., 310.392.7575 Gjusta bakery
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From top: Thai desserts; Ruen Pair restaurant
»Jet Tila
HOLLYWOOD/EAST HOLLYWOOD »EAT
Thai Town is six blocks of Hollywood Boulevard, between Western and Normandie avenues, and is the only officially recognized Thai Town in America. Ruen Pair is a fun place to begin your adventure. They serve one of the best Thai papaya salads in the world. Other favorites are pork jerky, sticky rice and roast duck red curry. Jitlada Restaurant is very famous for its southern Thai food and it’s no secret that Ryan Gosling and Ashton Kutcher frequent this landmark. Chi Spacca can’t be missed for some of the best steaks and Italian wines in L.A.: Order the housemade charcuterie and finish with the bisteca fiorentina, a 50-ounce dry-aged porterhouse.
»DO
I like sending relatives and friends on the TMZ Hollywood Bus Tour. You might roll your eyes, but we can’t deny that visitors who choose L.A./ Hollywood try to see celebs! Go on Friday, Saturday, Sunday evenings—the later the better to increase your chances of seeing a famous face or three. For some Zen, visit the four-faced Buddha
shrine by Thailand Plaza. This Hindu god is celebrated for good fortune and protection. Visitors can leave offerings of incense, candles, jasmine garlands and young coconut juice.
»
PRIMP If you’ve never experienced the ancient art of Thai massage, it’s a combination of pressure point, deep tissue and yoga stretching. You can’t beat the deals in Thai Town: An hour costs $40 to $60. I really like Thai Herbs & Spa for their great service and tranquil atmosphere. Plus, it’s next door to Jitlada Restaurant, so start your massage about 5 or 6 pm and feel amazing before feasting.
»SHOP
Siam Book Center has fun gifts like Thai cookbooks, Buddha statues and incense items. Next door, Bangluck Market sells ready-to-eat Thai desserts. It’s a little-known fact that most Thai markets sell artisan desserts on the weekends. Pick up some sticky rice with mangoes; kaya custard (a popular green coconut custard made with white bread); and/ or Thai bananas with sweetened
sticky rice, and walk around while snacking. Then head west and check out all the boutiques on Melrose [Avenue]. Ruen Pair 5257 Hollywood Blvd., 323.466.0153 Jitlada Restaurant 5233 Sunset Blvd., 323.667.9809 Chi Spacca 6610 Melrose Ave., 323. 297.1133 TMZ Hollywood Bus Tour Tours depart from TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., 855.879.3597 Thailand Plaza 5321 Hollywood Blvd., 323.993.9000 Thai Herbs & Spa 5231 1/2 Sunset Blvd., 323.661.7086 Siam Book Center 5178 Hollywood Blvd., 323. 665.4236 Bangluck Market 5170 Hollywood Blvd., 323.660.8000
SIDEBAR, COURTESY JET TILA; TOP AND BOTTOM, MARINA CHETNER
T
he renowned celebrity guest judge on Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen is more than just a handsome face on TV. Chef Jet Tila grew up working at his family’s Thai grocery store—the first in L.A.’s Thai Town— before going on to study at Le Cordon Bleu and California Sushi Academy. Since then, he’s dueled with Masaharu Morimoto on Iron Chef America; appeared alongside Anthony Bourdain on No Reservations; and in 2013, was appointed the inaugural culinary ambassador of Thai cuisine by the royal Thai consul general, Los Angeles. Last year, Tila opened food hall/restaurant Stir Market on Beverly Boulevard, not far from East Hollywood, where Thai Town is located. Who better than Tila to give us a tour of the neighborhood?
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Discove
Welcome to Burbank
SIDEBAR, COURTESY JET TILA; TOP AND BOTTOM, MARINA CHETNER
From artisanal wines to local brews, Burbank offers a wealth of dining options. Check out the amazing selection of exclusively on-tap beers at Tony’s Darts Away, and the acclaimed small plate menu at Luna Vine Wine Bar. Newly opened gasto-pub Simmzy’s brings a beachy vibe along with the homegrown “Bourbank" cocktail! Clockwise from top left: Barney’s Beanery, Wokcano, Story Tavern, Luna Vine Wine Bar, Tony’s Darts Away, Simmzy’s
DRINK DINE MINGLE To find out more call 818-238-5180 or visit us online at www.visitburbank.com
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STEAK IT OUT Hang on to your forks and knives: There’s a steakhouse explosion rocking Los Angeles. by JAMES BARTLETT
WHETHER YOU LIKE YOUR STEAK WELL done or on the rare side, there are chophouses all over town offering whatever cut you desire, cooked just the way you want it. Here’s what’s cooking at some of the hottest new spots to hit L.A.’s sizzling steak scene. The Palm was a legend in West Hollywood for nearly 40 years, hosting Hollywood movers and shakers and immortalizing around 2,000 of them in caricatures on its walls. Also legendary was the classic steakhouse menu: Think surf ’n’ turf with Nova Scotia premium lobster and prime New York strip. That location closed last year, but another Palm recently debuted in Beverly Hills, where there’s an L.A. mural just waiting for caricatures of new customers and old friends. Wait until the sun goes down to check out the new late-night menu at Jacques Fiorentino and Mary Anne Reyes’ brasserie-inspired restaurant on Melrose Avenue. To bring home an authentic French flavor,
L’Assiette Steak Frites uses the culotte cut—a rarity in most U.S. steakhouses, it features minimal marbling—and keeps the steak evenly cooked and juicy with a four-hour sous-vide process. The meat is quickly seared and sliced before it hits the plate, where it’s paired with beef-tallow Kennebec pommes frites and the restaurant’s secret house sauce. In downtown L.A., Brazilian steakhouse Fogo de Chão has opened its latest location. Gaucho chefs expertly grill 16 churrasco cuts of meat that are dramatically presented on swords, and tableside service keeps running until you turn the green circle over to red—and then back again. Known for its long-established restaurant on North La Cienega Boulevard in Beverly Hills, the chain’s new 8,000 square-foot allyou-can-eater has quickly gained a local following. Also on La Cienega, restaurateur brothers Ian and Justin Hopper have mixed their family heritage into what may be L.A.’s only upscale Indonesian steakhouse, Hutchinson. You’ll find top cuts of dry-aged
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HUTCHINSON, RYAN TANAKA
Opposite: dry-aged tomahawk steak at Pistola. This page, clockwise: Hutchinson; Ocean Prime’s surf ’n’ turf appetizer; L’Assiette Steak Frites
American and Japanese beef, though Indonesian curry, coconut rice and caramelized baby bok choy with short rib make up house-favorite Beef Rendang. Every second Monday, gather your friends for rijsttafel, or “rice table,” a selection of 12 to 25 dishes anchored together by family-style rice. The second restaurant from Gusto’s chef Vic Casanova, Pistola is a modern tribute to the traditional Italian steakhouse. Inspired by The Godfather and designed by Cliff Fong, it’s a smart spot on West 3rd Street. The menu features big glasses of red, and steaks, pasta and seafood, though the head of the gang might try the dry-aged 18-ounce Delmonico. Located in the Americana at Brand, Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak gives shoppers and visitors a contemporary twist on the traditional American steakhouse. Alongside the starring attraction there’s a patisserie, a shellfish cart and a tableside Japanese whiskey service. In the piano bar you could try a Lucky Lindy cocktail with lamb ragout toast, then return for the monthly curated “beverage experience.” At The Horn in West Hollywood, steaks and tasty game come courtesy of executive chef Adam Mitrano and Adam Klesh (fresh from the Industry Bar in New York). Snack on alligator nuggets or a buffalo burger, and dive into salmon, scallops and octopus. To drink, sample the very berry Pimm’s cup cocktail, flavored with peach vodka, elderflower and blackberries. Just before the new year, Nick’s Manhattan Beach opened in the former Chez Soi space in the Metlox center, and like the SoCal chain’s other locations in Laguna Beach, Long Beach and San Clemente, the
Still Cooking
Rustic meets modern at Steak & Whisky in downtown Hermosa Beach, due open at press time. The fifth joint from chef/partner Tin Vuong and partner Jed Sanford of Blackhouse Hospitality Management (Little Sister, Abigaile), it applies a blend of cultural influences to American classics. 117 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.318.5555
downtown Manhattan Beach location offers classic American fare. There’s plenty of steak and ribs on the menu, but filling breakfasts and brunch stand out, too. Liquid assets include the signature Nick’s Bloody Mary, complete with a blue-cheese olive. The minimal, smart, dark-wood stylings of Spear Steakhouse in the former Le Ka space will draw you to the heart of downtown L.A. Its steaks are served with roasted bone marrow and a side of crustacean butter, mushroom bordelaise or housemade Worcestershire, and chef Greg Paul keeps pescatarians happy with a sea of oyster and fish choices. As the name suggests, new Ocean Prime in Beverly Hills gives you the best of land and sea in its supper-club atmosphere. Whether you choose something from the raw bar, seafood, sushi or an 8-, 10-, 12-, 14- or 16-ounce steak, it’s all brought to the plate by executive chef Matt Briggs. Alternatively, spend a decadent moment at the bar with a scotch and a surf ’n’ turf appetizer of scallops and short ribs.
PRIME LOCATIONS THE PALM 267 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.550.8811 / L’ASSIETTE STEAK FRITES 7166 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.274.2319 / FOGO DE CHÃO 800 S. Figueroa Ave., downtown, 213.228.4300 / HUTCHINSON 826 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.360.0884 / PISTOLA 8022 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.951.9800 / BOURBON STEAK LOS ANGELES The Americana at Brand, 237 S. Brand Blvd., Glendale, 818.839.4130 / THE HORN 8933 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.933.6678 / NICK'S MANHATTAN BEACH 451 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.7373 / SPEAR STEAKHOUSE 800 W. 6th St., downtown, 213.688.3000 / OCEAN PRIME 9595 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.859.4818
Le Relais de l'Entrecôte is adding to its international roster with a new location in West Hollywood. A huge place on Melrose with indoor and outdoor seating, it will draw inspiration from its French flagship, serving steak frites with a secret-recipe buttery herb sauce. 8755 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood Coming soon to the old Circa space in Manhattan Beach, steak-centric The Arthur J is the latest venture from chef David LeFevre (M.B. Post, Fishing With Dynamite), and is named after the grandfather of his collaborators, the Simms brothers (Simmzy’s). 903 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach Due open in March on San Vicente Boulevard, Baltaire (helmed by executive chef Travis Strickland) will offer plenty of prime steaks, caviar, old-school charm and sun-or-star dining on its 2,500-square-foot terrace. 11647 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 424.273.1660
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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. Comprised of 22 blocks of nationally-registered historic architecture, Old Pasadena is widely recognized as a premier destination and one of the few truly walkable urban districts in California. Come explore more than 300 specialty boutiques, exclusive retailers, sidewalk cafĂŠs, 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 St. 626.440.0929 clothesheaven.com
Artful living boutique that mixes new upscale furnishings with vintage and renovated second-hand treasures.
Come unwind with Bird Pick Tea & Herb’s refreshing tea drinks and explore the vast selection of teas and tea accessories.
A contemporary cabinet of curiosities with a museum perspective on current artists, jewelers, and designers.
Maude Woods
Bird Pick Tea & Herb
Gold Bug
55 E. Holly St. 626.577.3400 maudewoods.com
10 S. De Lacey Ave. 626.773.4372 birdpick.com
22 E. Union St. 626.744.9963 goldbugpasadena.com
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WHERE ABOUTS The City of Angels is among the most vibrant and diverse cities in the Western Hemisphere. The area generally referred to as L.A. is actually made up of numerous cities and neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. Here’s our guide to the most visited among them.
SARAH HADLEY
➺ CITY INDEX 28
BEVERLY HILLS
32
SANTA MONICA
36
WEST HOLLYWOOD
40
HOLLYWOOD
44
DOWNTOWN
48
PASADENA
52
THE VALLEY
54
SOUTH BAY
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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 economically diverse than Tinseltown 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. 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 powerlunchers at Thomas Keller’s Bouchon or Wolfgang Puck’s legendary Spago on Cañon, or grab dinner and a jazz performance at new Spaghettini & the Dave Koz Lounge 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 new Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, which transforms 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 is 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, with luxury boutiques and dining venues to rival those of Beverly Hills.
FROM LEFT: EDWIN SANTIAGO; DALE BERMAN. OPPOSITE: EDWIN SANTIAGO
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 label worth its logo.
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NEW IN TOWN
Spaghettini & the Dave Koz Lounge
The Seal Beach favorite teams with acclaimed saxophonist Dave Koz to bring Cal-Italian cuisine and live entertainment to Beverly Hills. 184 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.424.4600
Striiike
The in-demand Streicher sisters share their celeb-beloved hair, makeup and brow expertise at this new beauty bar. 9278 Civic Center Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.205.2600
Wally’s Vinoteca
This convivial new spot from the owners of Wally’s Wine and Spirits serves small plates paired with more than 100 wines by the glass. 447 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.475.3540
Prada boutique on North Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Opposite, from left: Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City; 208 Rodeo restaurant in Beverly Hills
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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 in 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 works. 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 prime star-spotting territory. Another don’t-miss venue is the award-winning Geffen Playhouse, located on Le Conte Avenue in one of the oldest buildings in Westwood.
Culver City
Covering 5 square miles about 4 miles southeast of Westwood, Culver City has benefited from a polish in the past few years, and now boasts a thriving downtown. The Kirk Douglas Theatre and the Ivy Substation, home to the Actors’ Gang, bookend
/ massage from the heart
➺When Tomoko Kurono—the daughter of a village healer in Osaka, Japan—set out to find a massage that would remove negative energy from her body and renew her spirit, little did she know that her journey would lead her to create Tomoko Spa, a luxuriously minimalist Japanese sanctuary new to Beverly Drive. The spa offers four treatment rooms, two of which accommodate couples and feature hinoki wood bathtubs, and guests enjoy graciously served snacks and a foot bath (ashiyu). The raisons d’être, though, are the exquisite signature massages. Drawing from Eastern and Western traditions and incorporating such elements as sake and organic oils, they will take you on your own journey to tranquillity and bliss. 141 S. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.205.7300, tomokospa.com —S.E.
FROM TOP: SARAH HADLEY; TESSA NEUSTADT
Bruin theater in Westwood
the downtown area and stage excellent 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 one end of the Expo Line, a Metro light rail that traverses from Culver City to Exposition Park and the University of Southern California to downtown. Hollywood gets all the attention, but it’s Culver City that claims the official motto “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 the TV series Cougar Town among the productions filmed at Culver Studios, and the Spider-Man franchise among the hits produced 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 92.
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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, a real estate agent 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 or 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 Tinga 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 and the top-level Dining Deck with a food court, upscale restaurants and a gourmet marketplace. East on Broadway is the legendary Fred Segal, an emporium of high-end shops such as JET John Eshaya. 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, including London Sole and Clare V. Father’s Office, known for its stellar burger, and R+D Kitchen are tops for dining; dessert lovers might venture to Sweet Lady Jane for its famous cakes. Just minutes south of downtown Santa Monica, Main Street exudes a beachyupscale vibe. The long stretch between Pico Boulevard and Rose Avenue contains a number of galleries, pubs, restaurants including Chinois on Main, and shops such as Liseanne Frankfurt and Mona Moore. The California Heritage Museum is in a transplanted Victorian-era home, as is the Victorian, adjacent to the museum, which features a cool downstairs speak-easy, 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 entertain-
ment is at the Broad Stage, Santa Monica College’s first-rate, 499-seat performing arts, film, dance and theater venue. As L.A. has emerged as a fine-arts capital, the campuslike Bergamot Station on Michigan Avenue has become an important destination. It’s home to some 30 galleries, the Santa Monica Museum of Art and a café.
Malibu
Twenty 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, such as the many restaurants with ocean views, from the casual (Malibu Seafood) to the upscale (Nobu Malibu). Adjacent to the Malibu Lagoon and Bird Sanctuary, the Adamson House is filled
FROM LEFT: BROWN CANNON III; SARAH HADLEY. OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN
Third Street + the Pier
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NEW IN TOWN Aestus
Chef Alex Ageneau, formerly of Patina and the Royce, cooks seasonal dishes on a wood-burning oven from an open kitchen at this new restaurant. 507 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 424.268.4433
Free City
Shop comfy basics, colorful sweats, vinyl and more at this L.A.-based brand’s graphic new hippiehappy boutique. 535 California Ave., Venice, 424.238.5568
Burro
This savvy souvenir shop (sibling to Burro, formerly Firefly, in Venice) stocks artisan goods and gifts for independent thinkers at the Malibu Country Mart. 23410 Civic Center Way, Suite A-3, Malibu, 310.456.3700
Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. Opposite: Geoffrey’s Malibu restaurant; Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine in Pacific Palisades
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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.
tions. Rose Avenue is also coming up, thanks to the emergence of hot restaurants such as Superba Snack Bar, a smattering of hip shops and industrial-chic lofts. Looky-loos stroll Ocean Front Walk to ogle the vendors and performers, or bodybuilders at Muscle Beach.
Brentwood
The Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades
with historic tile. The celebrity-frequented Malibu Country Mart serves as the area’s town square. Together with adjacent Malibu Village and Malibu Lumber Yard shopping centers, there are enough trendy shops and restaurants to while away an afternoon. Inland, nearing Calabasas, is wine country. Malibu Discovery offers tours of the region, with stops at tasting rooms such as Malibu Wines and Sip Malibu.
Topanga + Pacific Palisades
In the 1960s, hippies and musicians such as Neil Young hid out in idyllic Topanga, accessed 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
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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 the land that would become Venice in a coin toss. He sought to develop it as an American version of the Italian city; the canals are still there, today lined with million-dollar bungalows. His namesake Abbot Kinney Boulevard is Venice’s coolest section, where The Tasting Kitchen, Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea and boutiques such as Alexis Bittar and A+R are the main attrac-
Reese Witherspoon, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner are some of the celebrities said to live in this affluent enclave northeast of Santa Monica. San Vicente Boulevard functions as the neighborhood’s main street, with copious independent shops, bakeries, cafés and restaurants between Bundy Drive and where San Vicente becomes Federal Avenue. 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.
Marina del Rey
Marina del Rey celebrates its 50th birthday this year. Its main attraction is the marina, the largest man-made small-craft harbor in the world. Restaurants such as Cast & Plow and casual Tony P’s are positioned to take advantage of the views. For an up-close look at the harbor’s marine life, rent kayaks from Marina del Rey Boat Rentals. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see page 92.
/ spring chickens
panies as Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger to spend more time with her two young girls, she couldn’t shake her creative spirit, and her daughters became her muses. The result was Pink Chicken, a line of vintage-inspired clothing for babies, little girls, tweens and moms that’s been spotted on the daughters of Halle Berry, Nicole Richie and Jennifer Garner. Last fall, Pink Chicken expanded from its Hamptons home to a Santa Monica boutique outfitted in hand-blocked blue-lotus wallpaper and oceanscape photography. The welcoming shop offers the brand’s breezy, easy dresses and separates, as well as gifts, books and accessories that are sure to thrill wee chicks. 1524 Montana Ave., Santa Monica, 310.395.6048, pinkchicken.com —G.G.
TOP: ASHOK SINHA
➺When fashion designer Stacey Fraser took a hiatus from working for such com-
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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 two 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 many legendary establishments. The Roxy, the Whisky a Go-Go and the Viper Room have a long history of hosting performances from 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 the collections at Zadig & Voltaire or either of the two H. Lorenzo shops. Pamper yourself with a facial and massage at Ole Henriksen Face/Body Spa, a blowout 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 with multiple personalities. One stretch of Melrose, east of Fairfax Avenue, has an eclectic mix of indie boutiques, cafes and coffeehouses interspersed with 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, Kelly Wearstler, TenOverSix and Vivienne Westwood. Just off Melrose
is the quiet, fashionable three-block street of Melrose Place, where Bentleys line up for chic salons such as Frédéric Fekkai and cutting-edge boutiques such as the Row, Monique Lhuillier and Isabel Marant.
West Hollywood Design District Melrose Avenue’s massive Pacific Design Center is the hub of L.A.’s flourishing art, fashion and design district, formerly known as the Avenues, which runs along the pedestrian-friendly retail corridors of Melrose and Beverly and Robertson boulevards. The complex itself—monolithic blue, green and red buildings designed by celebrated architect Cesar Pelli—is itself noteworthy, and its 1.2 million square feet house more than 130 showrooms catering to professional designers and luxury homeowners. PDC is also 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 are major east-west streets running through West Hollywood, filled with trendy restau-
FROM LEFT: DALE BERMAN; MONICA NOUWENS. OPPOSITE: SARAH HADLEY
Sunset Strip
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NEW IN TOWN The Blind Dragon
The h.wood Group’s new karaoke bar combines singing, retro cocktails and dim sum. 9201 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2068
Moschino
The Italian fashion house opens its first stateside retail concept in the West Hollywood Design District. 8933 Beverly Blvd., West Hollywood, 818.827.5700
Odys + Penelope Quinn and Karen Hatfield’s latest offering serves up simple California fare prepared via wood-fired smoker, churrasco or live-fire grill. 127 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.939.1033
Chris Burden’s installation Urban Light at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Opposite, from left: Farmers Market; a Melrose Avenue boutique
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M Beverly Hills may be the toniest shopping district in L.A., but Robertson Boulevard is not far behind.
rants, design showrooms and boutiques from some of the hottest up-and-coming clothing designers. The two streets bracket the landmark eight-level Beverly Center, whose design is reminiscent of Paris’ Pompidou Center. Bloomingdale’s, Henri Bendel, Fendi, Gucci, Giuseppe Zanotti, True Religion Brand Jeans, Uniqlo, Maje and Sandro boutiques are among more than 160 establishments drawing consumers. On West 3rd Street east of Beverly Center, you’ll find favorite boutiques such as BedHead for chic pajamas and Duncan Quinn for bespoke tailored suits. The many great dining options include Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo’s Son of a Gun, plus a branch of Magnolia Bakery. On Beverly Boulevard, you can browse vintage couture at Beige or high-end home décor and accessories at Garde. Afterward, you can experience market-fresh American cuisine at Cooks County or hearty Italian on the romantic patio at Dominick’s.
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Robertson Boulevard
Beverly Hills may be the county’s toniest shopping district, but Robertson Boulevard is not far behind, particularly if you’re young and hot and have your own reality show. The celebutante set hits Rebecca Taylor for womenswear, Zimmermann for haute swimwear and Kitson for trendy accessories. 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.
Fairfax District
Technically part of the city of Los Angeles, the Fairfax District is one of the most culturally diverse and artsy neighborhoods in the West Hollywood area. At Fairfax Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard is the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), a renowned
/ stylish second acts
➺“Everything old is new again” doesn’t seem like an on-point description of L.A.,
unless it’s in reference to the homegrown clothing line Reformation. This Melrose Avenue boutique, which opened its flagship store on the perennially cool-girl street in 2012 and has since built a strong celebrity following, boasts clothes made from all-natural materials that were once discarded fabrics or vintage finds. Each piece has been meticulously recast into a chic style that’s complemented by the store’s modern decor. Shop for head-to-toe looks from the selection of soft striped shirts, slick leather jackets, bright floral dresses and faded blue jeans as Beyoncé and Justin Timberlake play overhead. Then relax in the lounge with a helping of enviro-friendly Boxed Water. 8253 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.852.0005, thereformation.com —K.D.
FROM TOP: EDWIN SANTIAGO; COURTESY REFORMATION
The Pacific Design Center, aka “the Blue Whale,” anchors the West Hollywood Design District.
multifaceted facility with more than 100,000 works from around the world. The Broad Contemporary Art Museum, designed by architect Renzo Piano, showcases art from the contemporary and modern eras, while the latest additions to the LACMA campus include the Lynda and Stewart Resnick Exhibition Pavilion and Ray’s & Stark Bar. Adjacent to LACMA is the Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits. Additional venues on this formidable Museum Row include the Petersen Automotive Museum and the Architecture and Design Museum. South of the museums is a surprise for curious foodies: a neighborhood known as Little Ethiopia, where acclaimed traditional restaurants are located. Be prepared to eat with your hands! One of the district’s anchors is the historic Farmers Market, with more than 100 open-air produce stalls, shops and eateries. There are spots to satisfy virtually any craving, including a wine bar, taqueria and stands with authentic Louisiana gumbo and Korean barbecue. 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 street lamps and a central fountain. Nordstrom, a movie theater and stores such as Topshop Topman are joined by myriad restaurants. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of West Hollywood, see pages 92-93.
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MEMORIES MADE FRESH DAILY FROM AN 81 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. 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.
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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 in the midst of 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 and shops such as Kitson, 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 handprints 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 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 headlining 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 the feet of tourists, 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 appropriately located in front of the Capitol Records Building, the 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 Clark Gable and Audrey Hepburn to contemporary stars such as Taylor Swift and Ryan Reynolds. You can ponder some zany accomplishments at the Guinness World Record Museum, while the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium offers bizarre exhibitions on double-headed animals and shrunken human heads. Movie buffs head to the Hollywood Museum in the historic Max Factor Building, which displays 10,000 artifacts showcasing 100 years of showbiz history, including Indiana Jones’ whip and the honeymoon dress worn by Marilyn Monroe after she married Joe DiMaggio.
Around Vine
The storied intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, the epicenter of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, boasted a large 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
FROM LEFT: SARAH HADLEY; DALE BERMAN. OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN
its 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 All’Acqua
Atwater Village’s new Italian spot serves rustic fare, including wood-fired pizzas. 3280 Glendale Blvd., L.A., 323.663.3280
LAXArt
Culver City’s nonprofit contemporary art space moves to bigger digs. 7000 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood, 323.871.4140
Mollusk Surf Shop
The San Franciscobased beachy brand brings its colorful styles to a new clubhouse in Silver Lake. 3511 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.928.2735
Hollywood & Highland Center in Hollywood. Opposite, from left: the Capitol Records building and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium in Hollywood
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The largest urban park in America, the sprawling Griffith Park is an ideal place to hike, picnic, golf, ride horses and more.
transit. Across the street is boutique hotel the Redbury and its stylish Middle Eastern restaurant, Cleo. 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 other hip boutiques.
Nightcrawling
The revival of Hollywood has only enhanced its endless nightlife opportunities, and a lively bar and club scene permeates the district. On Hollywood Boulevard, you can party under
G R E AT F I N D
the guise of literary advancement at librarythemed Hemingway’s, and attempt to get past the velvet rope at Playhouse (or try Lure on Ivar Avenue). Cahuenga Boulevard also hosts dozens of clubs. 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. Nearby is the Ford Amphitheatre, featuring a more intimate environment for international music, dance and family fare.
Los Feliz + Silver Lake
These neighborhoods are among the bestkept secrets 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. Newer
/ fit and flair
➺There’s a reason nipped waists and full skirts are always in style: They never fail to
flatter. Just ask Zooey Deschanel and Taylor Swift, two of the silhouette’s modern-day poster girls. And which L.A. designer do they turn to, again and again? Eva Franco, whose feminine frocks are now available at her debut boutique in Echo Park. Franco’s line is carried by retailers worldwide, but it wasn’t long ago that she was perfecting her designs in flea markets through direct feedback from her customers. She’s enjoying that personal relationship with her fans once again at the shop, located just a few miles from the downtown factory where all of the garments are made. When you visit, say oui to a selfie with an Instagram-perfect Parisian backdrop in the dressing room. 1555 Echo Park Ave., L.A., 213.250.2500, evafranco.com —S.E.
Griffith Park
The largest urban park in America, the sprawling Griffith Park is an ideal place to hike, picnic, golf, ride horses and more. The Charlie Turner Trailhead begins at the 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 located here are the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens and the Western heritage-oriented Autry National Center, 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 93-94.
FROM TOP, EDWIN SANTIAGO; JESSE BENSON
Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park offers stunning views of the L.A. Basin.
lounges such as Rockwell represent the neighborhood’s increasing sophistication. A once-forgotten stretch of Hollywood Boulevard in Los Feliz now hosts boutiques such as Paper Moon Vintage and restaurants including cult fave Umami Burger. Fully transformed is Silver Lake Boulevard, now crowded with eateries and upscale retailers. 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, chic handbags at the Clare V. flagship beckon.
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©2014 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 14-ADV-15836
©2014 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 14-ADV-15836
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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 Culver City. 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 scenic 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 3,200-seat 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. Its music director, Gustavo Dudamel, exudes an energy that rivals the building’s audacious design. Also housed at Disney Hall is REDCAT, which offers visual, media and performing arts productions. After a show, take a stroll through the new 12-acre Grand Park, between Grand Avenue and Hill Street and First and Temple streets.
Descending Bunker Hill
Steps from the Music Center 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), Southern California’s premier contemporary art museum. The Omni Hotel and California Plaza are adjacent. Nearby Angels Knoll is a welcome patch of greenery amid the concrete jungle. Angels Flight, a vintage funicular (dormant at press time) 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 Los Angeles Public 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. Hip shops such as Acne Studios lend cachet to the area. The Bradbury Building, built in 1893 in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, was featured in the film Blade Runner.
FROM LEFT: MATT HARTMAN, COURTESY GRAND PARK. OPPOSITE: LISA ROMEREIN
Union Station
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NEW IN TOWN Redbird
Chef Neal Fraser’s new restaurant serves modern American fare and cocktails from Julian Cox and Tobin Shea in the rectory of the former St. Vibiana’s cathedral. 114 E. 2nd St., downtown, 213.788.1191
B.S. Taqueria
Chef Ray Garcia helms this homage to the art of taco-making, due open at press time. 514 W. 7th St., downtown, bstaqueria.com
Preux & Proper
Moonshine drinks and a daiquiri bar are the pièces de résistance at this twostory New Orleansthemed spot. 840 S. Spring St., downtown, 213.896.0090
Walt Disney Concert Hall. Opposite, from left: Fans at Dodger Stadium in Chavez Ravine; Grand Park
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Downtown’s heritage as a mercantile center can still be experienced in its historic shopping districts, popular with bargain hunters.
sleek Japanese American National Museum. The Geffen Contemporary, a branch of MOCA, is next door. At 2nd and Main streets is the former St. Vibiana’s cathedral, now home to stylish Redbird restaurant.
L.A. Live
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 to markets such as St. Vincent Jewelry Center; in the neighboring Fashion District, centered around the California Market Center, you can find designer clothing items. At Santee Alley, an open-air bargain bazaar, designer trends breed low-priced knockoffs. The Flower District offers blooms at wholesale prices. For an awesome mix of old-school produce vendors and lunch counters and new, upscale specialty stalls, Grand Central Market, near the foot of Angels Flight, is the place to go. And the burgeoning
G R E AT F I N D
Figat7th shopping center boasts trendy new boutiques and eateries.
Chinatown
Chinatown remains a great destination for sampling dim sum or browsing for clothing, tea or home goods. Cultural highlights include the ornate Thien Hau Temple and the Chinese American Museum. Pedestrian-oriented Chung King Road and Gin Ling Way are home to galleries; Broadway boasts boutiques. Dodger Stadium is a short drive away, as is San Antonio Winery, which offers tours and tastings.
Little Tokyo
Little Tokyo is still a proud ethnic enclave, but it, too, is emerging as an up-and-coming hipster ’hood. The bar scene is popping, led by watering holes like Far Bar and newer Wolf & Crane, and you can nibble on traditional sushi prepared by veteran chefs at Japanese Village Plaza. Just a few steps down 1st Street is the
/ one of a kind
➺ Founded by French expats Nicolas Libert and Emmanuel Renoird, Please Do Not Enter is a combination art gallery, exhibition space and boutique housed in the historic PacMutual building. A thoughtfully curated collection of unique and limited-edition pieces includes the work of Parisian photographer Grégoire Cheneau and New York-based Russian artist Slava Mogutin, and dramatic polishedbrass sculptures by Israeli-born Arik Levy punctuate the museumlike space. Artsy coffee table books are offered, as well as men’s fashion from designers Jean-Paul Knott, Christophe Lemaire and Italian swimwear label Xarifa; leather goods from Quinoa Paris; eyewear from L.G.R; and masculine jewelry from Adrien Moniquet. 523 W. 6th St., downtown, 213.263.0037, pleasedonotenter.com —R.G.
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 touches on 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 93.
FROM TOP: MATT HARTMAN; COURTESY PLEASE DO NOT ENTER
The retired NASA space shuttle Endeavour at the California Science Center in Exposition Park
The $2.5 billion L.A. Live project has been called the epicenter of the downtown renaissance. Staples Center, home to the Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers and Kings, hosts top pop acts, as does Nokia Theatre L.A. Live, 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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EXPLORING
Pasadena PASADENA BRINGS A BLEND OF SMALL-TOWN CHARM AND COSMOPOLITAN ENERGY. NEIGHBORING TERRITORIES EAGLE ROCK, GLENDALE AND THE SAN GABRIEL VALLEY ARE ALSO WORTH DISCOVERING.
➺Pasadena is no ordinary bedroom community, with Craftsman-style bungalows hinting at a worldOld Pasadena
A tribute to foresighted urban planning is the 22-square-block shopping district known as Old Pasadena, roughly bounded by Walnut Street and Del Mar Boulevard, Arroyo Parkway and Pasadena Avenue. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the district contains restored buildings, trendy boutiques and excellent restaurants such as Union, from lauded chef Bruce Kalman. Pedestrian-only alleys meander through One Colorado, where chic shops such as Gold Bug, Mohawk General Store and Oska beckon and restaurants offer alfresco dining overlooking a sculpture-strewn square. A few steps east of Old Pasadena lies Paseo Colorado, a shopping and dining center with ArcLight Cinemas and upscale shops lining garden promenades. This mixed-use development’s open-air design frames views of such historic structures as Pasadena City Hall, on Garfield Avenue.
Playhouse District + South Lake Avenue
Anchored by the Mission-style Pasadena Playhouse, this district is filled with upscale
antique shops, boutiques and dining rooms with ornate facades. Also present is the Le Cordon Bleu-affiliated College of Culinary Arts, with a restaurant open to the public, and the famed Ice House comedy club. The neighboring Boston Court Performing Arts Center presents dramas and musicals. The pagoda-crowned USC Pacific Asia Museum features decorative arts from every corner of Asia, and the Pasadena Museum of California Art celebrates Golden State art, architecture and design from 1850 to the present. Just east of the Playhouse District, South Lake Avenue is a vibrant, 12-block shopping and dining district. At the Commons and Burlington Arcade, charming boutiques are set around European-style courtyards. Farther south on Lake Avenue is the opulent, historic Langham Huntington hotel.
Orange Grove Boulevard
This wide boulevard, once called Millionaire’s Row, is still lined with splendid estates, including the former Wrigley Mansion, which now houses the Tournament of Roses Association and is open for tours from February to August. The immediate neigh-
borhood features the legacy of architects Frank Lloyd Wright, Wallace Neff and Paul Williams. The genius of Greene & Greene, pioneers of the Arts and Crafts movement, is evident at the Gamble House, also open to the public. Just around the corner on Colorado Boulevard is the Norton Simon Museum, home to one of the finest art collections in America. The galleries at this museum are filled with masterpieces from the Renaissance to the 20th century, and its repertoire of Impressionist masters (Degas, Cézanne, van Gogh) is impressive. It also features extensive art from India and a tribute to Monet in a lovely sculpture garden.
San Marino + South Pasadena
In the exclusive residential community of San Marino is the Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens, one of the most remarkable pieces of real estate in Southern California. Here the beautifully restored Italianate mansion of railroad magnate Henry Huntington is packed with 18th- and 19th-century art including Thomas Gainsborough’s Blue Boy and Sir Thomas
FROM LEFT: DALE BERMAN; EDWIN SANTIAGO. OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN
renowned architectural heritage, and institutions such as the Tournament of Roses and Caltech giving the community a gravitas far beyond its size. In nearby San Gabriel Valley, additional treasures await.
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NEW IN TOWN Fresh
The pure-beauty brand brings its cult-favorite products to a cute new boutique. 40 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.564.2648
Superba Snacks + Coffee
Paul Hibler’s restaurant empire expands eastward with this coffee and pastry shop, due open at press time. 712 S. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena
Tankfarm & Co. Heritage-inspired menswear rules at this new Orange County-based shop at the Americana at Brand. 767 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.247.2099
Gamble House in Pasadena. Opposite, from left: Window-shoppers on Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena; the Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens in San Marino
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The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Garden’s natural Southern California habitat is famous for its wild peafowl.
a towering neon obelisk is the Alex Theatre on Brand Boulevard, an art deco masterpiece that hosts concerts and musicals. Just north of downtown Glendale is the delightful community of Montrose, with its homespun shops and all-American diners. Nearby is sprawling Descanso Gardens, home to North America’s largest camellia collection, fully in bloom from January to February.
San Gabriel Valley
Lawrence’s Pinkie. A library with 600,000 rare books and manuscripts occupies another structure. Throughout the 200-acre property are more than one dozen distinct botanical environments, re-creating native habitats from England, China and elsewhere. A beautiful new education and visitor center greets guests. Directly south of Old Pasadena is the independent municipality of South Pasadena, a shady, tranquil community. The Mission West historic district, particularly Mission Street, is packed with antique shops, galleries and cafés. The town is particularly kidfriendly, thanks to adorable shops such as the Dinosaur Farm and Fair Oaks Pharmacy, a 1915 restored drugstore with a soda fountain.
Eagle Rock + Glendale
Just west of Pasadena is Eagle Rock, a quiet college town that is reinventing itself as a hip neighborhood with an understated bohochic vibe. Students from Occidental College,
G R E AT F I N D
where a young Barack Obama studied, mingle with young couples who have snapped up the hillside real estate. Its main drag of Colorado Boulevard is suddenly lined with one trendy café after another, from Vietnamese and French to Italian and vegetarian. On the other side of Eagle Rock is Glendale. Office workers pour out of high-rises for happy hour at The Americana at Brand, an open-air shopping, residential and entertainment development. Here, find value at H&M or splurge at the new David Yurman. The center is a great place for a movie followed by dinner and cocktails at Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak or Katsuya. The trilevel indoor shopping center Glendale Galleria is adjacent. Its department stores include Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s and Target, and specialty boutiques include Banana Republic, Coach and Tilly’s. Glendale’s diverse population—it’s home to one of the largest Armenian communities in America—provides plenty of flavor, including elaborate restaurants. Marked by
/ crown-city brewed
➺ Occupying an Old Pasadena storefront is Home Brewed Bar, where milk teas
and iced coffees are patiently, painstakingly cold-brewed for 20 hours, resulting in handcrafted beverages that are as mellow as they are refreshing. Flavored milk teas include peach oolong, lychee and coconut-mint-honeydew, while coffees are flavored with vanilla, salted caramel or chocolate. An array of international artisanal teas is offered, and enhancements like boba, coffee jelly and aloe vera provide endless possibilities for customization. The space is small but inviting, with Edison bulbs hanging from a soaring ceiling over communal tables of reclaimed wood. You’ll be hard-pressed to return to Starbucks after experiencing Home Brewed Bar. 39 N. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena, 626.397.2887, homebrewedbar.com —R.G.
Kissing Pasadena’s eastern border is Sierra Madre, a quaint community that refuses to be paved over. Arcadia is home to Santa Anita Park, one of the most storied thoroughbred horse racing venues in the world. Adjacent to the racetrack is Westfield Santa Anita, an ever-expanding shopping center. The 127-acre Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden’s natural Southern California habitat is famous for its wild peafowl; you might see a flock crossing nearby streets. The 1771 San Gabriel Mission is a notable landmark in the neighboring city of San Gabriel. The San Gabriel Valley cities of San Gabriel, Temple City, Alhambra and Monterey Park have drawn large numbers of Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants in recent decades, and some of the best Chinese restaurants in America are found here, including Hong Kong-style seafood houses that are great fun for dim sum brunches. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see page 94.
FROM TOP: JOSEPH LLANES; KRISTINA LLOYD
Public art near Pasadena City Hall
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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.
➺The Valley is a sprawling collection of communities, each with its own attractions and charms. Universal City
Just a couple of Metro stops north of the heart of Hollywood is Universal City, a major entertainment industry outpost. The highlight is certainly Universal Studios Hollywood, which offers a behind-thescenes peek into moviemaking. The theme park offers some rollicking roller coasters as well as high-tech virtual-reality action rides such as the new Despicable Me attraction and King Kong 360 3-D, created by film director Peter Jackson. Make like Brad and Angelina and splurge for Universal’s VIP Experience, which pampers its guests with such perks as private tour guides, exclusive backlot access, lunch in the VIP dining room and front-of-the-line access for every ride. Among the wide-ranging attractions next door at pedestrian-only Universal CityWalk are skydiving simulations at iFly Hollywood, mechanical bull riding at Saddle Ranch Chop House and rock ‘n’ roll bowling at Jillian’s Hi Life Lanes. Restaurants include Karl Strauss Brewing Co., and boutiques such as Lush Cosmetics and Skechers will loosen your wallet.
Burbank
Burbank calls itself “the town behind the tinsel”—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. VIP tour 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 notable dining destinations, including 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 Mag-
nolia Park, centered at Magnolia Boulevard and Hollywood Way, which offers indie cafés, antique shops and some of L.A.’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 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, the outdoor amphitheater 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 and downtown L.A., as well as the San Fernando Valley, Pasadena and the San Gabriel Valley.
FROM LEFT: DALE BERMAN; IAN WHITE. OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN
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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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., as 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 new bar in a barrel-shaped landmark building from the 1940s, the momentum continues for this transitlinked 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 from one end of the San Fernando Valley to the other. Immortalized in music by Frank Zappa and Tom Petty, the boulevard is an integral part of L.A. culture. As it stretches through Studio City, it’s lined with an eclectic mix of eateries, from entertainment-industry-favored Art’s Deli to elegant Bistro Garden, plus a greater concentration of acclaimed sushi bars (such as Asanebo) than Little Tokyo. For shopping, there are charming boutiques, including Dari and Voyage et Cie, and beauty retreats such as Belle Visage Day Spa and Face Haus facial bar. Hip bars and supper clubs including Firefly have helped to launch a nightlife scene. You’ll see plenty of famous faces in the Valley, where celebrities treasure its family-oriented lifestyle. 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
Universal CityWalk in Universal City. Caption for all images Opposite, from here Caption forleft: all A confection from images here Caption renowned Porto’s for all images here Bakery Caption forinallBurbank; images NoHo Arts District in North Hollywood
Bloomingdale’s and featuring upscale boutiques in a particularly pleasant environment. Sherman Oaks Galleria is near the junction of the 405 and 101 freeways; draws include ArcLight Cinemas.
Deep in the Valley
Westfield Topanga shopping center is loaded with exclusive designer boutiques, including Louis Vuitton and David Yurman, plus department stores Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Macy’s. Farther west off the Ventura Freeway (U.S. 101) is Calabasas, where celebrities move for more elbow room. Upscale shopping and casual eater-
ies live at the Commons at Calabasas, an elegant open-air destination. A few exits beyond that is Westlake Village, where locals hit the luxurious spa or do lunch at the Four Seasons. Air Force One is permanently grounded at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum in neighboring Simi Valley. 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 94.
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EXPLORING
South Bay 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.
➺In the South Bay, the cities of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach occupy an idyllic 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 boogie-boarders 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 M.B. Post, Fishing with Dynamite, Little Sister and The Strand House drawing gourmands 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 of 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 hopping 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 Wicked+ are charming standouts among the specialty shops and bistros that line Pier Avenue. Across the street, 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 recreational fishing excursions and whale-watching tours, while other local outfitters rent kayaks, paddle boats, 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 beach 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 6-block radius.
THIS PAGE: LISA ROMEREIN. OPPOSITE: EDWIN SANTIAGO
coastal stretch renowned for surfing, volleyball and expensive real estate. Farther south beckon the bluffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and beyond them, the bustling waterfronts of San Pedro and Long Beach.
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NEW IN TOWN
LuLu’s Nouvelle
Feminine fashions beckon from this boutique in the Metlox center. 451 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Suite D-122, Manhattan Beach, 310.545.8800
Nick’s
The O.C.-based chain brings its upscale American comfort food to the South Bay. 451 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.7373
Steak & Whisky
Blackhouse Hospitality Group plants a steakhouse (due open at press time) steps from its Abigaile and Día de Campo. 117 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.318.5555
Korean Bell of Friendship in San Pedro. Opposite, from left: Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach; Gum Tree boutique in Hermosa 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.
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. Eight miles inland on Crenshaw Boulevard sprawls the 87-acre South Coast Botanic Garden in tony Palos Verdes Estates. Hugging the coast on Palos Verdes Drive West brings you to Rancho Palos Verdes’ Point Vicente Interpretive Center, a marine museum and popular gray-whale-watching site during the annual migration. Just beyond is the Mediterraneanstyle Terranea Resort, which offers fine dining, a spa and a public nine-hole golf course. A few miles south along Palos Verdes Drive West is the Wayfarers Chapel, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright’s son, Lloyd Wright. The impressive Swedenborgian “glass church” is a popular wedding venue. Nearby, the 18-hole public course at Trump National Golf Club is top-ranked.
G R E AT F I N D
➺South
San Pedro
The multicultural city 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 Port of Los Angeles, a container port that also serves travelers on the Catalina Express and more than one million cruise passengers annually. From the port’s World Cruise Center, a trolley takes visitors downtown to the waterfront restaurants and shops of the New England-style Ports O’ Call Village, and then to the marina, part of the Cabrillo Beach Recreational Complex. The complex includes the Frank Gehry-designed Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, located next to Cabrillo Beach. Windsurfers of all abilities congregate here, with outfitters including Captain Kirk’s offering rentals and lessons.
Long Beach
In the southwest corner of L.A. County, Long Beach boasts a busy commercial port, an
/ beachy chic
Bay locals love design-minded general store Wicked+ in downtown Hermosa Beach, founded by marketing gurus Brian and Colin Cooley. But the expertly stocked shop is decidedly geared for guys. Enter Beach & Beverly, a new boutique offering women’s Cali-cool clothes and products handpicked by the Cooley brothers, steps away from the duo’s first store. Inside, you’ll find shoes, accessories, casual separates and alluring lingerie from such brands as Tularosa, Shinola and For Love & Lemons. You can also indulge in L.A.-made chocolates from Compartes or catch up on the latest issue of Darling magazine. Whether prepping for a wild night out or a cozy afternoon in, you’ll find the essentials at Beach & Beverly. 135 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.379.9630, beachandbeverly.com —G.G.
FROM TOP: ASHOK SINHA; ALEX WARSCHAUER
Manhattan Beach is prime surfing territory and renowned for its fine sand.
attraction-packed waterfront and more than 5 miles of beaches. Among its most popular draws is the 1,020-foot-long Queen Mary, a historic, supposedly haunted ship-turnedhotel, dining and shopping attraction permanently moored in Long Beach Harbor. Alongside it is the Cold War-era Scorpion Russian Submarine. The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center and the Pike at Rainbow Harbor entertainment complex are nearby, as is the Aquarium of the Pacific and the family-friendly Shoreline Village. From the village, you can rent bicycles and follow the Shoreline pedestrian bike path 3.1 miles along the water, passing the Long Beach Museum of Art. The path ends at the tony Belmont Shore neighborhood. Here you’ll find restaurants and shops along 2nd Street, Bay Shore Beach, the Belmont Pier, windsurfing and kite-surfing lessons, and even gondola rides through the canals of Naples. Downtown, along 4th Street between Junipero and Cherry avenues, vintage furniture and clothing shops such as the Vintage Collective 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 93.
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where
the guide
JOSHUA WHITE / JWPICTURES.COM
Wright Of Way After a three-year restoration, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House, a national historic landmark, UNESCO World Heritage List nominee and highlight of the Barnsdall Art Park in Hollywood/Los Feliz, is once again open to the public. Built as part of a proposed arts complex for oil heiress Aline Barnsdall between 1919 and 1921 in what Wright called a “California Romanza” architectural style, the residence was Wright’s first L.A. project. In 1927, Barnsdall gave the Wrightdesigned structures and 11 surrounding acres to the city of Los Angeles for use as a public art park. Look for representations of the hollyhock—Barnsdall’s favorite flower—throughout the residence’s design scheme during a self-guided tour Thursday-Sunday 11 am- 4 pm. p. 78
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Dining American
Guidelines
ANIMAL Bare-bones eatery, from the guys known as the “Two Dudes” to Food Network fans, is a carnivore’s dream. Think delectable takes on offal (such as crispy pig’s ear) and a bacon-chocolate crunch bar for dessert. D (nightly). 435 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.782.9225 $$$ Map I13
Index
BUTCHERS & BARBERS Local bar masters the Houston brothers present this lively American bistro. A charcuterie board and roasted garlic-rosemary popcorn can be shared before moving on to salmon with parsnip purée, hanger steak with Point Reyes blue cheese butter or 18-ounce bone-in pork chop with plum-pine nut gremolata. Creative artisanal cocktails and a vintage setting—Charlie Chaplin once lived in the historic building—enhance the experience. D (Tu-Su). 6531 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.461.1464 $$ Map H14 THE CHURCH KEY With off-menu items rolled table-totable, this trendy spot has adopted the charm and spontaneity of dim sum. The menu—playful and eclectic with a wide variety of global influences—is executed and presented with style. In addition, mixologists dressed as a Pan Am flight attendants steer airline food carts loaded with liquid nitro cocktails. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8730 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.249.3700 $$$ Map H12
Good Evening, Vietnam!
The women of the An family have parlayed their Vietnamese heritage into some of SoCal’s sexiest restaurants, including Crustacean in Beverly Hills. In February, one of the famous sisters debuted The District by Hannah An, a solo venture that celebrates Vietnamese cuisine yet adapts it to the California lifestyle. In the 320seat restaurant, where Colonial Vietnamese architecture and Asian antiques are spliced with an industrial-chic vibe, dishes such as lobster salad (pictured above) balance the five elements of Vietnamese cuisine: spicy, sour, bitter, salty and sweet. Elevated versions of pho, the classic Vietnamese noodle soup, are also offered, and exotic cocktails infuse a fashionable L.A. scene with Southeast Asian flavors. (See listing on p. 68.)
CLAIM JUMPER Saloon-style eatery features hearty grill fare and its own label of craft beer. L (M-F), D (nightly). 3500 W. Olive Ave., Burbank, 818.260.0505; 820 W. Huntington Drive, Monrovia, 626.359.0463; 9429 Tampa Ave., Northridge, 818.718.2882; 25740 The Old Road, Valencia, 661.254.2628; 6501 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach, 562.431.1321 $ Map T22, Q23, north of A1, north of A1, D4 CAULFIELD’S Beverly Hills’ literary-inspired American bistro offers comfort classics such as roasted chicken and braised short ribs. B, L, D (daily). 9360 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.388.6860 $$$ Map J11 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 $$$$ Map K11 INK. An L.A. culinary darling, Top Chef winner Michael Voltaggio showcases daring, thoughtful molecular gastronomy at his first restaurant. Get a five-course tasting menu or explore à la carte items including smoked trout with radish and roe, and fried chicken oatmeal with a sunny-side-up egg. D (nightly). 8360 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.651.5866 $$$ Map I12
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.
American..............................60 Japanese................................66 Breweries/Gastropubs..... 61 Mediterranean.................... 67 British....................................... 61 Mexican/Latin.................... 67 California................................ 61 Pan-Asian..............................68 Chinese................................... 61 Seafood..................................68 Eclectic/Fusion.................... 61 Spanish..................................68 French.....................................62 Steak.......................................68 Italian......................................63 Thai..........................................68
Br (Sa-Su). 400 S. Main St., downtown, 213.687.7015 $$ Map I17 M.B. POST Small plates of seafood, fresh-baked breads, cured meats and more in the space of a former post office. “Eat Your Vegetables” menu makes green beans, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower look tantalizing. L (F-Su), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1142 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5405 $$$ Map L13 MUSSO & FRANK GRILL Hollywood’s oldest (1919). Enjoy flannel cakes, lobster Thermidor and Welsh rarebit with the martini; legend has it that this place invented the drink. B, L, D (Tu-Sa). 6667 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.7788 $$ Map H13 NOÉ Visitors heading to the Walt Disney Concert Hall find Noé a convenient spot for a classy repast. Noé serves a rotating “neo-bistro” menu that might include braised short ribs with red wine and rosemary, or seared ahi tuna. D (nightly). Omni Hotel, 251 S. Olive St., downtown, 213.356.4100 $$ Map H16 PLAN CHECK KITCHEN + BAR A growing minichain famous for its innovative comfort food from chef Ernesto Uchimura. Contemporary takes on American classics are complemented with craft beers, cocktails and premium whiskeys. Try the acclaimed Plan Check Burger, topped with dashi cheese and ketchup leather. 1800 Sawtelle Blvd., L.A., 310.444.1411; 351 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.591.0094; 1111 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.403.1616 $$ Map K9, I12, H16
JAR Chef Suzanne Tracht presents an L.A. take on traditional, comforting American fare in a chic interpretation of an old-school chophouse. Don’t miss the signature pot roast. D (nightly). 8225 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.655.6566 $$$ Map I12
REDBIRD Acclaimed chef Neal Fraser’s contemporary American cuisine is offered in the rectory of the former Cathedral of Saint Vibiana, making Redbird both a cultural and culinary landmark. Thai-style Dungeness crab soup with cauliflower flan, foie gras with cocoa nibs and quince, rack of pork with Calvados-blood sauce, and chicken pot pie comprise an intriguing menu. An updated Spanish baroque décor and retro-inspired cocktails complete the scene. D (Tu-Su). 114 E. 2nd St., downtown, 213.626.1507 $$$ Map H17
JOAN’S ON THIRD Celebrity-frequented café on busy West 3rd Street, as well as a new location in the Valley, offers omelets, sandwiches, salads, soups, sweets plus picnic baskets, gourmet items. B, L, D (daily). 8350 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.655.2285; 12059 Ventura Place, Studio City, 818.201.3900 $ Map I12, T18
SEASONS 52 No deep-frying. Lots of flavor. Stylish décor, eclectic seasonal menu, Mini Indulgences desserts and a superior wine list. L, D (daily). 1501 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.451.1152; Westfield Century City, 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Century City, 310.277.5252 $$ Maps L8, J11
LEDLOW Chef Josef Centeno, who rules downtown’s Old Bank District (Bäco Mercat, Bar Amá, Orsa & Winston) has transformed Pete’s Café into Ledlow, a place with vintage good looks. The versatile chef offers twists on classic bistro dishes like moules-frites, daube and duck confit, American staples like deviled eggs and burgers, as well as diverse cultural staples from Southern shrimp and grits to English fish & chips. B, L, D (daily),
SLATER’S 50/50 Bacon-happy burger restaurant (home of the original half-ground-beef, half-groundbacon 50/50 patty) with more than 100 craft, imported and domestic beers. L, D (daily). 61 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena, 626.765.9700 $ Map Q19 THE STRAND HOUSE This South Bay restaurant with awesome ocean views from nearly every table is a sophis-
The Loft and Bear vodka in the Factory Kitchen’s Hanky cocktail (which also contains gin, amaretto, lemon and basil) is made in a distillery right above the restaurant. p. 63
COURTESY THE DISTRICT BY HANNAH AN. OPPOSITE, AUDREY MA
SPOTLIGHT
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Dining ticated dining spot with a breezy, stylish bar. Housemade charcuterie precedes dishes such as hamachi crudo and braised lamb shank. L (Tu–F), D (nightly), Br (Sa–Su). 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.7470 $$$ Map L13 UMAMI BURGER Hot specialty burger joint; try the signature Umami Burger with tempura onion rings. L, D (daily). 4655 Hollywood Blvd., Los Feliz, 323.669.3922; 1520 Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, 323.469.3100; 12159 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.286.9004; additional locations at umami.com $ Map W22, H14, A2
Breweries/Gastropubs FATHER’S OFFICE Microbrew mecca; one of L.A.’s best burgers. Santa Monica: L (Sa–Su), D (nightly). L.A.: L (F–Su), D (nightly). 1018 Montana Ave., Santa Monica; 3229 Helms Ave., L.A., 310.736.2224 $$ 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 $$$ Map G13
British O’BRIEN’S IRISH PUB Pub and restaurant with brews, whiskeys and spirits, Irish and American cuisine, outdoor patio and live entertainment. L, D (daily). 2941 Main St., Santa Monica, 310.396.4725 $ Map M8 ROSE TREE COTTAGE Sweet, homey spot for English afternoon tea. Known for its freshly baked scones and gracious service from husband-and-wife owners. Seatings at 1, 2:30 and 4 pm. Adjacent gift shop. High tea (Tu, F–Su). 801 S. Pasadena Ave., Pasadena, 626.793.3337 $$ Map R19 YE OLDE KING’S HEAD Cozy pub/restaurant with traditional English fare, including acclaimed fish and chips. Santa Monica: B, L, D (daily), high tea (M-Sa). Studio City: B, L, D (daily). 116 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.451.1402; 12969 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.990.9055 $ Map L8, west of U18
California Cuisine 208 RODEO This Mediterranean-influenced gem of a café sits above Via Rodeo’s cobblestone street at luxe Two Rodeo. Dishes include Tuscan market salad and seafood fettuccine. B, L, D (daily). Two Rodeo, 208 Via Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.275.2428 $$ Map J11 ALMA Chef Ari Taymor adds fine dining to the revitalization of Broadway with his playful but sophisticated prix-fixe menus. The ingredients, all freshly picked or foraged, are revealed in a parade of beautiful dishes that have garnered national attention. D (Tu-Sa). 952 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.244.1422 $$$$ Map I16 CHAYA The original Chaya in Japan remains open after nearly 400 years, and Chaya’s popularity endures in Los Angeles, too. The Japanese-accented French/Italian menus are accomplished and innovative. L (M–F), D (nightly). 525 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.236.9577; 110 Navy St., Venice, 310.396.1179 $$ H16, M8 COMMISSARY Buzzworthy poolside eatery from Roy Choi serves farm-to-table dishes in a greenhouse-like setting. Emphasis on fruit- and vegetable-themed dishes and drinks makes it very vegetarian- and vegan-friendly, but you’ll find a few meaty dishes on the menu, as well. B,L,D (daily). The Line Hotel, 2nd Floor Greenhouse, 3515 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 213.368.3030 $$ Map J14 FIG RESTAURANT Dine on a seasonal menu of bistro fare; trendy charcuterie bar open at dinnertime. Br (Su),
B, L (daily), D (Tu–Sa). Fairmont Miramar Hotel, 101 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.319.3111 $$ Map L8 GIRASOL Chef C.J. 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 $$$ Map U19 HINOKI & THE BIRD Inside luxury residential tower the Century, taste Japanese and Southeast Asian flavors in such dishes as lobster rolls with green curry and Thai basil, and black cod scented with the smoke of the namesake hinoki wood. L (m-F), D (Tu–Sa). 10 W. Century Drive, Century City, 310.552.1200 $$$ Map J10 INN OF THE SEVENTH RAY There’s a New Age feel here, but you don’t have to be a believer to fall in love with this place, which boasts candlelit tables scattered along a burbling creek. L (M–Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 128 Old Topanga Canyon Road, Topanga, 310.455.1311 $$ Map B1 MAR’SEL Overlook a sparkling peninsula while dining on dishes with produce and herbs from chef’s on-site garden; dishes might include grilled organic chicken or slowbraised lamb shank. D (nightly), Br (Su). Terranea Resort, 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, 310.265.2836 $$$$ Map O13 MAUDE Celebrity chef Curtis Stone, an Aussie with a strong classical background, debuts this intimate, 25-seat Beverly Hills restaurant named after his grandmother. Every month a different seasonal ingredient is showcased and artfully presented in a nine-course menu. D (Tu-Sa). 212 S. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.859.3418 $$$$ Map J11 MILO & OLIVE The husband-and-wife team from Rustic Canyon is behind this tiny, casual pizzeria and bakery. Zoe Nathan’s desserts and pastries shouldn’t be missed. B (M-F), L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 2723 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.453.6776 $$ Map K9 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 (Su). 8948 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.657.7867 $$$ Map I12 RUSTIC CANYON Discover boutique wines while sampling small plates of market-driven, Mediterraneaninspired dishes. Clam pozole is just one of the winners. Hide in a cozy booth or mingle at the communal table. D (nightly). 1119 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.393.7050 $$$ 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 pan-roasted Spanish turbot with matsutake mushrooms, or handmade agnolotti with sweet white corn. 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 $$$ Map I11 TAR & ROSES Ex-Wilshire Restaurant chef Andrew Kirschner’s first restaurant focuses on small, rustic shareable plates cooked in his wood-burning oven, but with a few days’ notice he can also whip up large, lavish family-style suppers of Moroccan-spiced goat or standing rib rack. D (nightly). 602 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.587.0700 $$$ Map L8 THE TASTING KITCHEN Foodies come for the daily changing menu of innovative yet unpretentious cuisine from culinary darling chef Casey Lane: small or large plates of cured meats, artisan cheeses, vegetables, sea-
Commissary, at the Line Hotel in Koreatown
food and pastas. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1633 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.392.6644 $$$ Map M9 TAVERN Chef Suzanne Goin’s third L.A. restaurant explores rustic Cal-Med fare in chic environs, including a popular sunlit indoor patio. The frequently changing menu might include “devil’s chicken” with leeks and mustard breadcrumbs. B, L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 11648 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.806.6464 $$$ Map J9 TERRINE Comfortable, elevated California brasserie fare (moules frites; pizza with truffle cheese and sage; agnolotti with truffled rice filling, hen of the wood mushrooms, hazelnuts and parmesan) from chef Kris Morningstar, restaurateur Stephane Bombet and managing partner/wine director François Renaud. The cocktail program is rooted in the classics, the wine is primarily French, the brunch is appropriately decadent, and the patio, which is dominated by a magnificent tree and dotted with sparkling lights, is as romantic as they come. A late-night menu is offered Friday and Saturday. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8265 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.746.5130 $$$ Map I12 WILSHIRE The woodsy, romantic deck is a coveted spot to hang out; the candle-laden bar inside is one of the Westside’s hottest. Market-driven California fare includes roasted half chicken with haricots verts and shallots. L (M–F), D (M–Sa). 2454 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.586.1707 $$$ Map L8 WOLFGANG PUCK AT THE HOTEL BEL-AIR A favorite hideaway of Hollywood elite, the Hotel Bel-Air offers an indoor-outdoor retreat helmed by the father of California cuisine. Puck’s take on Wiener schnitzel reminds diners of his Austrian heritage. B, D (daily), L (M–Sa), Br (Su), tea (F–Sa). 701 Stone Canyon Road, Bel-Air, 310.909.1644 $$$$ Map I10
Chinese MR. CHOW This L.A. edition of scene-y restaurants in New York and London offers Imperial Beijing cuisine. Beverly Hills: L (M–F), D (nightly). Malibu: D (nightly). 344 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.278.9911; Malibu Country Mart, 3835 Cross Creek Road, 18A, Malibu, 310.456.7600 $$$ Map I11, K7 OCEAN SEAFOOD Vast and boisterous spot serves amazing array of traditional dishes, superfresh seafood, top-of-the-line dim sum. B, L, D (daily). 750 N. Hill St., Chinatown, 213.687.3088 $$ Map G17
Eclectic/Fusion A-FRAME Roy Choi, whose Kogi inspired a thousand food trucks, offers a new Hawaiian-influenced menu. List of craft beers and signature cocktails are also on
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Dining offer. D (nightly). 12565 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.398.7700 $$ Map M10 ACABAR A sexy Moroccan setting paired with an eclectic menu from chef Octavio Becerra on the Sunset Strip. Enjoy shareable plates like caramelized cauliflower with a pair of sauces, shrimp toast with quail egg and spicy fish sauce, charred prawns with harissa, and lamb tagine, plus flaming cocktails from skilled mixologists. D (Tu-Sa). 1510 N. Stanley Ave., Hollywood, 323.876.1400 $$$ Map H13 BABOUCH MOROCCAN Authentic Moroccan cuisine served in a tentlike atmosphere. Live belly dancing. D (Tu-Su). 810 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro, 310.831.0246 $$ Map D3 BÄCO MERCAT Sizzling-hot chef Josef Centeno has drawn international praise for his uniquely inspired creations. The bäco, a flatbread sandwich, is his signature dish. Other selections on the diverse menu include spicy hamachi crudo. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 408 S. Main St., downtown, 213.687.8808 $$ Map I16 MAISON AKIRA Fine French cuisine with Japanese flair (such as a bento box with American Wagyu beef, miso sea bass and chawanmushi) in Pasadena’s playhouse district. Nine-course omakase available. L (F), D (Tu–Su), Br (Su). 713 E. Green St., Pasadena, 626.796.9501 $$$ Map Q20 TROIS MEC The holy foodie trinity of Ludo Lefebvre (LudoBites) and Vinny Dotolo and Jon Shook (Animal, Son of a Gun) open 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. New French bar-style spinoff, Petit Trois, is next door. D (M–F). 716 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, troismec.com $$$$ Map H13
French BOUCHON The Bouchon bistros from chef Thomas Keller (the French Laundry, Per Se) have become popular for their authentic good looks and superbly executed cuisine. One might begin with salmon rillettes followed by poulet rôti or a croque madame. L (M–F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 235 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.271.9910 $$$ Map J11 CAFÉ PINOT This glass box of a restaurant adjacent to Central Library offers romantic outdoor dining, skyline views—from bottom up—and contemporary Cal-French cuisine from the Patina group. L (M–F), D (nightly). 700 W. 5th St., downtown, 213.239.6500 $$$ Map H16 DELPHINE Off the W Hollywood Hotel & Residences’ chic lobby, Delphine establishes a laid-back ambiance with vintage photo murals and wood-barreled ceilings. Entrees include braised short ribs with roasted root vegetables. B, L, D (daily), Br (Sa–Su). W Hollywood, 6250 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.798.1355 $$$ Map H13 KENDALL’S BRASSERIE Located at the Music Center, Kendall’s is a convenient spot before or after a performance. In addition to dishes with a contemporary flair, all the brasserie favorites are here (think: moules frites). L (M-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.7322 $$ Map H16 THE LITTLE DOOR For a candlelit dinner in an elegant setting, this is the reservation ne plus ultra. Dine on rustic dishes under the stars or by a crackling fireplace in one of four intimate, romantic dining areas. Additional new location is in Santa Monica. D (nightly). 8164 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.951.1210; 246 26th St., Santa Monica, 310.310.8064 $$$ Map I12, K8 MÉLISSE At Mélisse, among L.A.’s highest-rated restaurants, chef-owner Josiah Citrin executes a
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Dining sophisticated modern French menu filled with luxe ingredients. Start with lobster bolognese with black truffles before superb game dishes. D (Tu–Sa). 1104 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.395.0881 $$$$ Map M8 PATINA Walt Disney Concert Hall’s fine in-house restaurant. Game dishes are a frequent presence on the menu, such as wood pigeon with yams, celeriac and pear. D (Tu–Su). 141 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.3331 $$$$ Map H16 RÉPUBLIQUE In a landmark once occupied by Charlie Chaplin’s studio—and more recently, Campanile restaurant—fine dining veteran Walter Manzke and pastry chef wife Margarita turn out bistro classics (think escargots, duck confit and steak frites) for a trendy clientele huddling at communal tables. Café B, L (daily), Br (Sa-Su); bistro D (M-Sa). 624 S. La Brea Blvd., L.A., 310.362.6115 $$$ Map I13
Italian ALIMENTO Zach Pollack, half of the talent behind acclaimed Sotto, expands east to a tiny, hip space in Silver Lake, where a clever menu features addictive chicken liver mousse with plum mostarda, crudo and pastas. The chef’s contrarian take on tortellini en brodo features dumplings filled with a hot broth that explodes in your 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 CECCONI’S This London-based restaurant caters to a well-heeled clientele who come to schmooze over bellinis and cicchetti (small plates). Pastas including a beautiful agnolotti del plin with black truffle, 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 $$$ Map I12 CULINA A contemporary take on regional Italian cuisine is the theme at Culina, where ample coastal inspirations are evident on the menu. The modern design includes a sleek crudo bar and an impressive 25-foot chandelier. B (daily), L (M–Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, 300 S. Doheny Drive, L.A., 310.860.4000 $$$ Map J12 DRAGO CENTRO Celestino Drago’s well-executed Italian fare—garganelli with pork sausage and fennel seeds, truffle-crusted chicken—and extensive wine list in a contemporary and handsome space. L (M–F), D (nightly). 525 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.228.8998 $$$ Map H16 THE FACTORY KITCHEN Former Valentino chef Angelo Auriana turns his attention to a casual, industrialchic setting in the burgeoning Arts District. Fresh-made pastas, beautiful cheeses and cured meats, and hearty items like beef with onion-Nebbiolo sauce or porchetta contribute to a daily-changing menu. L (M–F), D (nightly). 1300 Factory Place, downtown, 213.996.6000 $$$ 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 $$ Map J11, L13, Q19 GUSTO Victor Casanova’s intimate neighborhood ristorante has a look and feel reminiscent of his native
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BURBANK
Bronx. Dishes such as polpette (pork meatballs) plated over chilled, whipped ricotta, charred baby octopus and fresh-made pastas deserve praise. D (nightly). 8432 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.1778 $$$ Map I13 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 $$ Map G17 MATTEO’S An old favorite of the Rat Pack endures. Burrata campana salad, mussels in white wine, ossobuco Milanese. D (Tu–Su). 2321 Westwood Blvd., L.A., 310.475.4521 $$ 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 $$$ Map H13 PAPARAZZI RISTORANTE Classic southern Italian pasta dishes, seafood and steaks served up in a contemporary-meets-Old Hollywood setting, just blocks from Los Angeles International Airport. D (M–Sa). Sheraton Gateway Hotel, 6101 Century Blvd., Westchester, 310.642.4820 $$ Map O11 PIZZERIA MOZZA The other half of Nancy Silverton and Mario Batali’s Mozza, Pizzeria Mozza is a more relaxed dining experience. It features pizzas with Mediterranean ingredients, cheeses and salumi plates, and rustic daily specials. L, D (daily). 641 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.297.0101 $$ Map H13 RISTORANTE AL MARE Enjoy tastes of Italy and stellar beach and pier views from the rooftop deck of this three-story restaurant. L, D (daily). 250 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, 310.458.4448 $$ Map L8
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RIVABELLA Michelin-starred chef Luigi Fineo helms this sophisticated-yet-rustic Italian concept from Innovative Dining Group. L (M–F), D (nightly). 9201 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2060 $$$$ MapH12 SCARPETTA Scott Conant’s much-lauded NYC-based concept is replicated at the Montage Beverly Hills hotel. Conant is deservedly famous for dishes such as a simple, unbeatable spaghetti with tomato and basil. D (M-Sa). 225 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.860.7970 $$$ Map I11 SOLETO TRATTORIA & PIZZA BAR Contemporary Southern Italian fare in spacious, warehouse-chic environs. Antipasti and salads such as the Soleto vegetable salad with zucchini, asparagus, baby arugula, radicchio, peppers and crispy chickpeas precede build-your-own gourmet pizzas and pastas accented with sausage or shrimp. L (M–F), D (M–Sa). 801 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.622.3255 $$ Map I16
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SPAGHETTINI & THE DAVE KOZ LOUNGE Saxophone great Dave Koz teams with veteran restaurateurs to create a serious dining/jazz venue in Beverly Hills. Begin with velvety burrata or beef carpaccio with a twist before delving into pappardelle carbonara, balsamic-glazed beef shortribs or ahi tuna au poivre. After dinner, the likes of Bobby Caldwell, Michael Lington and surprise celebrity guests take the stage. D (nightly), Br (Su). 184 N. Cañon Dr., Beverly Hills, 310.424.4600 $$$ Map J11 TERRONI Southern Italian cooking including excellent thin-crust pizza. The downtown location inhabits a historic bank building. Downtown: L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa–Su). West Hollywood: L, D (daily), Br (Sa–Su). 802 S. Spring St., downtown, 323.954.0300; 7605 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.954.0300 $$ Map I16, J13
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Dining Japanese
FIND YOURSELF IN SPAIN
ASANEBO Hidden in a strip mall, but Michelin-rated, this cozy sushi bar and restaurant offers memorable sushi, seared toro in garlic cream and uni tempura in shiso leaf. L (Tu–F), D (Tu-Su). 11941 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.760.3348 $$ Map A1 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 $$$ Map H12 KATSUYA Sushi chef Katsuya Uechi turns out exotic delicacies in sultry spaces by designer Philippe Starck. From signature cocktails to king crab cooked over the robata grill, Katsuya is never boring. L (varies by location), D (nightly). 11777 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.207.8744; 6300 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.871.8777; 702 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.244.5900; L.A. Live, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.747.9797 $$$ Map K9, H14, northeast of T23, I15 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 $$$$ Map I12 NOBU The glitzy flagship of Nobu Matsuhisa attracts celebrities as well as serious foodies. An extensive menu of traditional and avant-garde sushi includes many dishes with beguiling Peruvian accents. Sakes and omakase feasts result in soaring tabs, but the cuisine measures up. West Hollywood: D (nightly). Malibu: L, D (daily). 903 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.657.5711; Nobu Malibu, 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.9140 $$$$ Map H12, east of A1 Q World-class sushi arrives downtown at this intimate restaurant where a sushi bar and handful of tables accommodate just 26 diners. The omakase-only experience showcases the artistry and discipline of chef/ owner Hiroyuki Naruke in items like seared bluefin toro, miso-marinated uni, monkfish as rich as foie gras and a parade of simply prepared sushi. These strictly traditional interpretations are never flashy but always rewarding. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 521 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.225.6285 $$$$ Map I16 ROBATA BAR Japanese grilling from the Sushi Roku, Katana and Boa team. Striking design by Dodd Mitchell. D (nightly). 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.458.4771 $$$ Map L8
140 Pine Ave • Downtown Long Beach • 951 778 0611 • CafeSevilla.com
BURGERS. BACON. BEER. Voted one of the
BEST BURGERS IN PASADENA TWO YEARS IN A ROW!
SUGARFISH Kazunori Nozawa—aka the “Sushi Nazi,” chef/owner of Studio City’s famed former Sushi Nozawa—opens a cheery, casual spot offering preset menus. Tips are included, but prices are about half those at the original. L, D (daily). 47221/4 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.306.6300; 11640 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.820.4477; 600 W. 7th St., suite 150, downtown, 213.627.3000; 1345 2nd St., Santa Monica, 310.393.3338; 4799 Commons Way, Calabasas, 818.223.9966; 212 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.276.6900 $$ Map N9, K9, I16, L8, west of A1, J11 SUSHI AKATORA Restaurateur Michael Cardenas is behind this friendly new north Manhattan Beach spot, which serves sushi and modern izakaya cuisine with glimpses of ocean. New location, Izakaya Akatora, in Alhambra. L (M-F), D (nightly). 302 Rosecrans Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.802.1131; 115 W. Main St., Alhambra, 626.943.7872 $$ Map L13, south of S21 SUSHI ROKU Nouvelle Japanese, sleek décor. Creative menu includes albacore tacos, salmon sashimi with black truffles. L.A.: L (M–Sa), D (nightly). Santa
On the corner of Raymond and Union 61 North Raymond Ave.
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Dining Monica and Pasadena: L, D (daily). 8445 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.655.6767; 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.458.4771; 33 Miller Alley, Pasadena, 626.683.3000 $$$ Map I12, L8, Q19 URASAWA If you’re serious about sushi, make a date to sit at Urasawa’s bar. Here you’ll be treated to an incredible omakase dinner—don’t even ask about price—that features the freshest, most artfully presented sushi, sashimi and shabu-shabu dishes. Reservation required. D (Tu–Sa). 218 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.247.8939 $$$$ Map I11
Mediterranean A.O.C. Mediterranean-inspired pioneer of two L.A. culinary trends: the small-plates format and the wine bar. Chef-owner Suzanne Goin offers addictive baconwrapped, Parmesan-stuffed dates and an excellent selection of cheeses and cured meats from a charcuterie bar. L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 8700 W. 3rd St., L.A., 310.859.9859 $$ Map I12 BOWERY BUNGALOW Restaurateur George Abou-Daoud honors his Middle Eastern heritage here by applying exotic Silk Road flavors to all-American concepts like Southern baby back ribs or a Brooklynstyle Reuben sandwich. The inventive menu even features Pacific influences: kebabs called “shishkatori” grilled over binchotan charcoal like authentic Japanese yakitori. The look is laid-back and fun, indoors or out. D (nightly). 4156 Santa Monica Blvd., Silver Lake, 323.663.1500 $$ South of W23
Ye Olde King’s Head
World Famous British Pub, Restaurant, Shoppe & Bakery
CLEO The SBE group’s noisy mezze bar is an unquestionable high point of the Hollywood dining scene. Executive chef Daniel Elmaleh’s eastern and southern Mediterranean small plates include kebabs of pork belly and lamb, and wood-burned flatbreads. Cocktails are expensive but irresistible. D (nightly). The Redbury, 1717 Vine St., Hollywood, 323.962.1711 $$$ Map H14 FIG & OLIVE New York-based restaurant’s cuisine is an ode to olive oil. Don’t miss the truffle mushroom croquette with truffle olive oil aioli. L (M–F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8490 Melrose Place, L.A., 310.360.9100 $$$ Map I12 GJELINA Under the direction of talented young chef Travis Lett, servers in T-shirts and newsboy caps serve seasonal Cal-Med small plates and pizzas to chic Westsiders. It’s one of Venice’s most popular restaurants and the neighborhood’s most lively patio. L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1429 $$ Map N9
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.
LUCQUES Chef-owner Suzanne Goin delivers the next generation of California cuisine, which includes dishes such as grilled club steak for two with potatoes parisienne. Nowhere do vegetables taste as good! L (Tu– Sa), D (nightly). 8474 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.655.6277 $$$ Map I13 SONOMA WINE GARDEN Brunch and happy hour crowds gather at this alfresco restaurant on the third floor of Santa Monica Place. Wine and cheese plates and pizzas from the wood-burning oven are perfect for grazing over wine from the extensive list. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 395 Santa Monica Place, Suite 300, Santa Monica, 424.214.4560 $$ Map L8
Mexican/Latin New Location Now Open in Studio City 12969 Ventura Blvd. (818) 990-9055
116 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica (310) 451-1402 www.yeoldekingshead.com
PETTY CASH TAQUERÍA Chef Walter Manzke, previously known for his restrained French fare at Bastide and Church & State, delivers in-your-face Mexican street food using local, seasonal ingredients and refined technique. Winning dishes include pig ear nachos with crema poblana topped with a soft egg, and savory churros, oozing cheese and served with a
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Redbird’s delicata squash salad with hazelnuts and goat’s-milk feta
butternut squash mole dip. L (Su), D (nightly). 7360 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.933.5300 $$ Map I13 RED O Rick Bayless, one of the leading authorites on Mexican cuisine in America, is consulting chef at this sexy, transporting Melrose eatery. Many of his thoughtful dishes are grounded in tradition, such as classic albacore ceviche and cochinita pibil. D (nightly). 8155 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.655.5009 $$$ Map I12
Pan-Asian 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 (W–F), D (nightly). 9646 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.205.8990 $$$ Map I11 THE DISTRICT BY HANNAH AN One of the celebrated An sisters—her family introduced Beverly Hills’ Crustacean—celebrates her Vietnamese heritage with a cuisine that reflects authenticity while incorporating California sensibilities in a chic indoor-outdoor space. Dishes like turmeric-crusted sea bass, spiced lobster, and betel leaf-wrapped sirloin with lemongrass are enjoyed with cocktails infused with Southeast Asian flavors. D (nightly). 8722 W. 3rd St., L.A., 310.278.2345 $$$ Map I12 WP24 From its 24th-floor roost, WP24 proves that Wolfgang Puck, who pioneered Asian fusion, has still got the goods. Highlights include Singapore-style chili prawns and steamed bao filled with pork belly. Restaurant/lounge concept Nest at WP24 is adjacent. Dining room D (Tu-Sa); Nest D (nightly). The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, 900 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.743.8824 $$$$ Map I15
Seafood FISHING WITH DYNAMITE David LeFevre, a Water Grill alum, loads his menu with East Coast inspirations as well as some innovative dishes. Among the old-school small plates in this tiny, charming restaurant are New England–style clam chowder with Nueske’s bacon and Maryland blue crab cakes with house-made pickles and remoulade. L, D (daily). 1148 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.893.6299 $$$ 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 $$ Map west of K7
LITTLEFORK While many of L.A.’s restaurants look to the Far East for inspiration, executive chef Jason Travi zeroed in on the East Coast, drawing on his Boston roots and utilizing his favorite New England purveyors. Signature seafood dishes include clam chowder and fresh daily oysters with cider mignonette, and nonseafood items include the favorite maple eggs. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1600 Wilcox Ave., Hollywood, 323.465.3675 $$$ Map H14 PROVIDENCE Chef-owner Michael Cimarusti transforms seafood from the world’s most pristine waters into oft-changing dishes such as kampachi with miso, buttermilk and green grapes, and striped bass with bacon and Bordelaise sauce. Outstanding cocktails complement Michelin-recognized cuisine. L (F), D (nightly). 5955 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.460.4170 $$$$ Map I14 SALT AIR Seafood prepared with traditions from around the world—everything from a Connecticut-style lobster roll to a Côte d’Azur-inspired bouillabaisse—is offered at this laid-back Venice eatery. Other faves include fish skin chips with harrisa and smoked onion dips for sharing, olive oil-poached salmon, grilled trout with cured Meyer lemon, and caramel-coated monkey bread for dessert. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (SaSu). 1616 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.396.9333 $$$ Map N9 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 (M–F), D (nightly). 8370 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.9033 $$$ Map I12
Spanish THE BAZAAR BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS Star chef José Andrés brings whimsical set of Spanish-style dining experiences to the eminently stylish SLS Hotel. Cuisine ranges from rustic fare to cutting-edge culinary creations. Tasting room Saam offers an unforgettable 20-plus-course prix-fixe menu. Dining room D (nightly); Saam D (Th-Sa). 465 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.246.5555 $$$ Map H16 CAFE SEVILLA Authentic Spanish fare and tapas bar on a bustling strip in downtown Long Beach. Dinner show on Saturdays; nightclub upstairs. L (F-Su), D (nightly). 140 Pine Ave., Long Beach, 562.495.1111 $$ Map N16 SMOKE.OIL.SALT Catalan and Valencian cuisine from chef Perfecto Rocher and an impressive list of Spanish wines served in a lively location on Melrose. Paella Sundays; putxero Mondays. D (nightly). 7274 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.930.7900, $$ Map I13
Steak 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 $$$ Map M8, H12 FOGO DE CHÃO Arguably the city’s best churrascaria—those Brazilian steakhouse-barbecue restaurants—is this restaurant with locations in Beverly Hills
and, now, downtown. Guests are treated to an endless procession of meats carved right onto their plates. L (M–F), D (nightly). 133 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.289.7755 $$$; Fogo de Chão 800 S. Figueroa Ave., downtown, 213.228.4300 Map J12, I16 L.A. PRIME Dine in high style 35 floors up. City views and dry-aged steaks at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel’s top floor are sure to impress out-of-towners and dinner dates. Classic sides and starters (think oysters, prawn cocktail, mac and cheese, creamed spinach) fill out the American surf-and-turf menu. Aged USDA certified Prime beef from Chicago. D (nightly). Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, 404 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.612.4743 $$$ Map H16 MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB At this on-the-waterfront eatery—the views are pure Malibu—starters like ahi tartare, lobster cocktail and caviar service are followed by fresh fish, whole Maine lobster or expertly prepared steaks. Sides like lobster mashed potatoes and Alaskan king crab-black truffle gnocchi are legendary. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.454.4357 $$$$ Map west of K7 MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE Swanky “steakhouse with personality.” Bone-in filet reigns; warm butter cake melts in your mouth. New Penthouse at Mastro’s is an upstairs lounge. D (nightly). 246 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.888.8782 $$$ Map J11 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 $$$ Map I11, West of A1, I16, T20 PISTOLA The sister restaurant to Victor Casanova’s Gusto opened last year, giving classic Italian steakhouse fare a modern twist. Enjoy classic dishes such as shrimp scampi and veal parmigiana in an elegant space with a sleek, 1950s New York feel. D (nightly). 8022 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.951.9800 $$$ Map I13 THE STINKING ROSE “We season our garlic with food,” from Gartini cocktail to garlic ice cream. 40-Clove Garlic Chicken, Silence of the Lamb Shank, Vladimir’s Garlic “Stakes” menu with six steak options. L, D (daily). 55 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.652.7673 $$ Map I12
Thai JITLADA THAI The wait for a table is long at this toprated restaurant in East Hollywood’s ThaiTown, but the southern Thai specialties, such as moo mae chan (grilled pork southern-style with papaya salad and sticky rice), are authentic and exceptional. L, D (Tu-Su). 52331/2 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.667.9809 $$ Map W22 NATALEE THAI Traditional Thai dishes are served amid edgy, modern décor. Among entrees are Nutty Chicken (a spicy combo of chicken, onion and dried chili) 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
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DYLAN + JENI
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: D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). Sunset+Vine, 1535 N. Vine St., Hollywood, 323.462.2155; 100 W. Channel Road, Santa Monica, 310.459.3337 $$ Map H14, L7
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
MENU HIGHLIGHTS Starters Pan-roasted bone marrow Baked Blue Point oysters Rockefeller Blue fin tuna tartare Side Dishes Crispy Brussels sprout Heirloom fingerling gratin Vermont white mac and cheese
L.A. PRIME Located on the 35th floor of the Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites, the award-winning L.A. Prime invites diners to experience a culinary adventure in a relaxed atmosphere with refined service. Known for its innovative and edgy cuisine, L.A. Prime offers Chicago stockyards wetaged prime beef steaks, as well as beautiful fresh seasonal fish and shellfish. Dishes are enhanced with local produce and paired with wines from an award-winning list recognized by Wine Spectator. Our awardwinning culinary team of chefs have created a masterful menu of artfully presented dishes made with fresh ingredients to please the palate. Stars wink through floor-to-ceiling windows as diners sit back, relax and enjoy all that downtown has to offer. D (nightly).
Steaks Bone-in Delmonico rib-eye 22 oz Primal-cut New York strip 14 oz Bone-in filet mignon 14 oz Composed Entrees 3-pound Maine lobster Double-thick-cut Niman Ranch pork chop Grilled free-range Colorado lamb chops Seared Mano de Leon jumbo scallop Pan-roasted wild king salmon Chilean sea bass SautĂŠed shrimp scampi King oyster mushroom
404 S. Figueroa St., downtown
213.624.1000
FRESH SEAFOOD AND PRIME STEAKS
thebonaventure.com
FRESH SEAFOOD AND PRIME STEAKS
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
MENU HIGHLIGHTS Starters Cocomero & pomoderi Little gem Caesar salad Burrata cheese and heirloom tomatoes
PAPARAZZI RISTORANTE Enjoy elegant, old Hollywood ambiance and world-class cuisine at Paparazzi Ristoranti, a hidden gem in the heart of the city and one of Gayot’s picks for the best Italian restaurants in L.A. Award-winning executive chef Ressul Rassallat, who was selected by the American Culinary Federation to compete for the prestigious title of Western Regional Chef of the Year, inspires the senses with simple, classic Italian dishes that nod to southern Italy and incorporate surprising culinary twists. Savor fresh pastas in authentic sauces, as well as artistically prepared seafood, poultry and top-notch steaks. House specialties include merluzzo cileno al pistachio, a pistachio-crusted Mediterranean sea bass with clams, roasted tomato-saffron risotto, English pea emulsion, Fiesole artichokes and pea shoots (pictured here). Other favorites include the hearty il cioppino dei Paparazzi, an enticing combination of seafood in a fennel pomodoro broth served with classic garlic ciabatta. Gather with friends in the private dining room, which accommodates up to 40 people and is outfitted with audio-visual equipment, and enjoy chef Rassallat’s robustly flavored creations. Your taste buds will thank you. D (M–Sa).
Entrees Merluzzo cileno al pistacchio Regatoni alla bolognese Garganelli con salsiccia Lasagna al brasato Il cioppino dei Paparazzi Filetto alla griglia La bistecca del vaccaro Ossobuco Organic lamb chops Pan-seared branzino al salmoriglio Sicilian pistachio-crusted Alaskan halibut Desserts Crema fredda al limoncello Profiteroles Tiramisu
6101 W. Century Blvd., Westchester
310.642.4820 sheratonlax.com/paparazzi
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LA DINING
THE STINKING ROSE
Located on Beverly Hills’ famed Restaurant Row, The Stinking Rose has made a name for itself, and its popularity is evident—people fill the unique dining rooms to partake of the tasty food enhanced by the fragrant bulb. Specialties include two pounds of whole, garlic-roasted Dungeness crab in a secret garlic sauce and the ever-popular forty-clove garlic chicken. “The Best Steak I Ever Tasted was in a Garlic Restaurant—The Stinking Rose in Beverly Hills.”—Vladimir. L, D (daily).
55 N. La Cienega Blvd. (near Wilshire Blvd.), Beverly Hills 310.652.7673 thestinkingrose.com
SEASONS 52 Celebrate what’s good now. This casually sophisticated grill and wine bar offers seasonally inspired cuisine and an award-winning international wine list, with 52 wines available by the glass. Market-fresh ingredients are prepared with rustic cooking techniques and presented in appropriate serving sizes, resulting in dishes that are rich in flavor but light in calories. Enjoy live music in the piano lounge every evening beginning at 6 p.m. L, D (daily).
1501 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica 310.451.1152 seasons52.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 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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LA DINING
IL FORNAIO
Il Fornaio’s award-winning authentic Italian cuisine is a favorite in Los Angeles. Specialties include house-made 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 1 Colorado, Pasadena, 626.683.9797 ilfornaio.com
RISTORANTE AL MARE Savor fresh and authentic handmade pastas, thin crust pizzas and Italian seafood classics such as cioppino and branzino at Ristorante al Mare, a new Italian eatery from the team behind Trastevere and La Piazza at the Grove. Located on the Santa Monica Pier, the three-story restaurant features a rooftop dining deck and full bar with unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and Malibu coastline (a perfect spot to enjoy happy hour, 4:30-7:30 daily). The restaurant also boasts second floor balcony terraces and a private dining room, as well as firstfloor decks overlooking the bustling boardwalk and beautiful Santa Monica beaches. Find live music on the rooftop every weekend and some Fridays. L, D (daily).
250 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica 310.458.4448 ristorantealmare.com
SONOMA WINE GARDEN
Sonoma Wine Garden showcases bold Mediterranean flavors with a California touch. Its chefs source produce at local farmers markets to ensure the menu reflects the freshest ingredients. With almost 50 by-the-glass offerings, the extensive wine list complements a diverse menu of small plates. The main dining room features a mammoth chandelier made with wine bottles, a floor-to-ceiling wine cellar and walls paneled with genuine wine cases. A picture window provides views of the Pacific Ocean, and the deck affords an excellent view of the restaurant’s bar and gardens. Sample some of the world’s finest wines by the ounce or glass via the 16-bottle Enomatic wine-dispensing machine. Happy hour Monday through Friday, noon-7 p.m. Br (Sa-Su), L (M-F), D (nightly).
395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica 424.214.4560 sonomawinegardensantamonica.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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LA DINING BENIHANA BEVERLY HILLS Benihana is a landmark on Beverly Hills’ Restaurant Row. At the heart of the Benihana experience lies the teppanyaki grill, where masterful chefs expertly prepare savory filet mignon, tender chicken breasts, succulent shrimp, cold-water lobster tail and Benihana’s signature hibachi chicken rice, all cooked to order in front of guests. Side orders include tempura, nigiri, sashimi and an assortment of fresh and colorful sushi rolls. Try one of the delicious specialty cocktails served in collectible mugs, Benihana’s famous hot sake or a passion fruit lemonade. Kids 12 and under can select from the Kabuki Kids menu. Benihana chefs are as well-known for their culinary theatrics as they are for their outstanding cooking. Celebrate your next special occasion at Benihana and take home a souvenir photo to commemorate the day. L, D (daily). 38 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills 323.655.7311 benihana.com
BOUCHON BISTRO Bouchon Beverly Hills, in the heart of the Beverly Hills Business Triangle, is adjacent to Beverly Canon Gardens and the Montage Hotel, above Bar Bouchon and Bouchon Bakery. Designed by Adam D. Tihany, this casual bistro features a classic mosaic floor, pewter bar, antique light fixtures and hand-painted murals by renowned French artist Paulin Paris. There is a French bistro menu and one of the most extensive raw bars in the city. Classics such as steak frites and the roast chicken favored by Chef Keller are fixtures on the menu. Seasonally inspired dishes, including trout almondine, boudin blanc and moules frites, change throughout the year. The wine list features regional and French selections; the seasonal Vin de Carafe program highlights local winemakers. B (Sa-Su), L (M-F), D (nightly). 235 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills 310.271.9910 bouchonbistro.com
ROSE TREE COTTAGE
Hong Kong has the Peninsula hotel. London, Claridge’s. And L.A.’s premier afternoon tea spot is Rose Tree Cottage. Enjoy a traditional English-style afternoon tea accompanied by mouth-watering finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones served with Devon cream and preserves at this charming tearoom. Dining on fine Royal Crown Derby and Royal Doulton bone china, guests sit in an indoor tearoom or an outdoor safari-themed pavilion amid a garden. Surrounded by gift items sourced from England, the sounds of clinking teacups and soft music, the scents of fresh roses and baked goods, you will think you’re in another time and place far, far away. Reservations taken by telephone only. Tea served at 1:00, 2:30 and 4:00 (Tu–Su).
801 S. Pasadena Ave., Pasadena 626.793.3337 rosetreecottage.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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RESTAURANTS City Index Our superguide by area, with cross reference to listings by cuisine. BEVERLY HILLS
CENTURY CITY
PUBLIC KITCHEN + BAR (Brew/Pub)........ 61
SEASONS 52 (American)................................... 60
208 RODEO (California)....................................... 61
CRAFT (American).................................................. 60
TROIS MEC (Eclectic)........................................... 62
SONOMA WINE GARDEN (Mediterranean).. 67
THE BAZAAR (Spanish).....................................68
HINOKI & THE BIRD (California)................... 61
UMAMI BURGER (American)............................ 61
BOUCHON (French)............................................... 62
SEASONS 52 (American)................................... 60
LA BREA/MID-CITY
TAR & ROSES (California)................................... 61
CULVER CITY
ANIMAL (American).............................................. 60
WILSHIRE (California)........................................... 61
A-FRAME (Eclectic)................................................ 61
PLAN CHECK (American)................................. 60
FATHER’S OFFICE (Brew/Pub)..................... 61
RÉPUBLIQUE (French)........................................ 63
CAULFIELD’S (American)................................. 60 CRUSTACEAN (Pan-Asian)................................68 CULINA (Italian)...................................................... 63 IL FORNAIO (Italian)...........................................70 MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak)...........68 MAUDE (California)................................................. 61 MORTON’S (Steak)...............................................68 MR. CHOW (Chinese)............................................. 61 NATALEE THAI (Thai).......................................68 SCARPETTA (Italian).......................................... 64 SPAGHETTINI (Italian)...................................... 64 SPAGO (California)................................................... 61 SUGARFISH (Japanese).......................................66 URASAWA (Japanese).......................................... 67 WOLFGANG PUCK (California)...................... 61
SUGARFISH (Japanese).......................................66 SUSHI ROKU (Japanese).....................................66
NATALEE THAI (Thai).......................................68
LA CIENEGA BOULEVARD DOWNTOWN
RESTAURANT ROW
ALMA (California)...................................................... 61
FIG & OLIVE (Mediterranean)............................ 67
BÄCO MERCAT (Eclectic).................................. 62
FOGO DE CHAO (Steak)...................................68
BESTIA (Italian)....................................................... 63
MATSUHISA (Japanese)......................................66
CAFÉ PINOT (French).......................................... 62
MORTON’S (Steak)...............................................68
CHAYA (California)................................................... 61
NOBU (Japanese)......................................................66
COMMISSARY (California).................................. 61
THE STINKING ROSE (Steak).......................68
SOUTH BAY/LONG BEACH BABOUCH MOROCCAN (Eclectic)............ 62 CAFE SEVILLA (Spanish)..................................68 CLAIM JUMPER (American)............................ 60 FISHING WITH DYNAMITE (Seafood).....68 IL FORNAIO (Italian)........................................... 63 MAR’SEL (California).............................................. 61 M.B. POST (American)......................................... 60 SUSHI AKATORA (Japanese)..........................66
DRAGO CENTRO (Italian)............................... 63 FACTORY KITCHEN (Italian)......................... 63
YE OLDE KING’S HEAD (British)................ 61
MALIBU
THE STRAND HOUSE (American).............. 60
FOGO DE CHAO (Steak)...................................68
GLADSTONE’S MALIBU (Seafood)...........68
KATSUYA (Japanese)............................................66
INN OF THE SEVENTH RAY (California).. 61
VALLEY
BEVERLY BOULEVARD
KENDALL’S BRASSERIE (French)............. 62
MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB (Steak)............68
ASANEBO (Japanese)...........................................66
3RD STREET
L.A. PRIME (Steak)...............................................68
MR. CHOW (Chinese)............................................. 61
CLAIM JUMPER (American)............................ 60
NOBU MALIBU (Japanese)................................66
GIRASOL (California)............................................. 61
MELROSE AVENUE
LEDLOW (American)............................................ 60
A.O.C. (Mediterranean)........................................... 67
MADDALENA (Italian)....................................... 64
THE DISTRICT (Pan-Asian)................................. 68
MORTON’S (Steak)...............................................68
MARINA DEL REY
MORTON’S (Steak)...............................................68
INK. (American)........................................................ 60
NOÉ (American)........................................................ 60
SUGARFISH (Japanese).......................................66
SUGARFISH (Japanese).......................................66
GUSTO (Italian)........................................................ 63
OCEAN SEAFOOD (Chinese).......................... 61
JAR (American)......................................................... 60
PATINA (French)...................................................... 63
PASADENA
JOAN’S ON THIRD (American).................... 60
PLAN CHECK (American)................................. 60
IL FORNAIO (Italian)........................................... 63
THE LITTLE DOOR (French)........................... 62 LUCQUES (Mediterranean).................................. 67 OSTERIA MOZZA (Italian)............................. 64 PISTOLA (Steak).....................................................68 PETTY CASH TAQUERIA (Mexican)......... 67 PIZZERIA MOZZA (Italian)............................ 64 PROVIDENCE (Seafood)....................................68 RED O (Mexican)......................................................68 SMOKE.OIL.SALT (Spanish)...........................68 SON OF A GUN (Seafood)................................68 SUSHI ROKU (Japanese).....................................66 TERRINE (California).............................................. 61 TERRONI (Italian).................................................. 64
JOAN’S ON THIRD (American).................... 60
UMAMI BURGER (American)............................ 61
Q (Japanese).................................................................66
KATSUYA (Japanese)............................................66
VENICE
REDBIRD (American)............................................ 60
MAISON AKIRA (Eclectic)................................ 62
CHAYA (California)................................................... 61
SUGARFISH (Japanese).......................................66
ROSE TREE COTTAGE (British)................... 61
GJELINA (Mediterranean).................................... 67
SOLETO (Italian).................................................... 64
SLATERS 50/50 (American).......................... 60
TERRONI (Italian).................................................. 64
SUSHI AKATORA (Japanese)..........................66
WP24 (Pan-Asian)....................................................68
SUSHI ROKU (Japanese).....................................66
HOLLYWOOD/EASTSIDE
SANTA MONICA
ACABAR (Eclectic).................................................. 62
BOA (Steak)................................................................68
ALIMENTO (Italian)............................................... 63
FATHER’S OFFICE (Brew/Pub)...................... 61
BOWERY BUNGALOW (Mediterranean).. 67
FIG RESTAURANT (California)....................... 61
BUTCHERS & BARBERS (American)........ 60
THE HUNGRY CAT (Seafood).........................68
CLEO (Mediterranean)............................................. 67
THE LITTLE DOOR (French)........................... 62
DELPHINE (French)............................................... 62
MÉLISSE (French)................................................... 62
THE HUNGRY CAT (Seafood).........................68
MILO & OLIVE (California)................................. 61
BRENTWOOD
JITLADA THAI (Thai).........................................68
O’BRIEN’S IRISH PUB (British).................... 61
KATSUYA (Japanese)............................................66
KATSUYA (Japanese)............................................66
RISTORANTE AL MARE (Italian).............. 64
SUGARFISH (Japanese).......................................66
LITTLEFORK (Seafood).......................................68
ROBATA BAR (Japanese)...................................66
TAVERN (California)................................................ 61
MUSSO & FRANK GRILL (American)....... 60
RUSTIC CANYON (California).......................... 61
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YE OLDE KING’S HEAD (British)................ 61
SALT AIR (Seafood)...............................................68 THE TASTING KITCHEN (California).......... 61
WEST HOLLYWOOD BOA (Steak)................................................................68 CECCONI’S (Italian)............................................. 63 THE CHURCH KEY (American)..................... 60 KATANA (Japanese)...............................................66 PUMP (California)....................................................... 61 RIVABELLA (Italian)........................................... 64
WESTSIDE MATTEO’S (Italian)............................................... 64 PAPARAZZI (Italian)........................................... 64 PLAN CHECK (American)................................. 60
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Entertainment 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.................... 76 Studio Tapings....................81 Theater................................. 76 Museums.............................81 Music + Dance.................... 78 Shopping Destinations.... 83 Sports.................................... 78 Nightlife................................84 Attractions.......................... 78 Beaches................................86 Studio Tours........................80 Tours + Transport..............88
Special Events
Road Trip The stretch of Route 1 from Santa Monica to Malibu, called PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) in these parts, follows one of the world’s most scenic coastlines. If traveling it is on your bucket list, make sure to do it in style. Thrill-seekers can rent a Harley-Davidson from Eagle Rider (p. 88), while those looking to turn heads can rent a luxury convertible from Beverly Hills Rent-A-Car (p. 88) —a Ferrari California should do the trick. Start just north of the Santa Monica Pier and soon the Getty Villa (p. 82) is on the cliffs to your right. Between you and the ocean blue, beaches like Will Rogers (p. 88), Topanga (p. 88) and Malibu Surfrider (p. 86) tick by. Stop for dinner en route; Gladstone’s (p. 68) is a classic choice, while Nobu (p. 66) satisfies gourmets and celebrities. Don’t linger too long, though— there’s no more storybook setting for driving off into the sunset.
HOLLYWOOD COSTUME Through March 2 Multimedia exhibition includes more than 150 costumes from movies both classic and recent, including such favorites as The Hunger Games and The Wizard of Oz. Presented by the Victoria and Albert Museum, London and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. M, T, Th 11 am-5 pm; F 11 am-8 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-7 pm. $10$20. Wilshire May Co. building, 6067 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 310.247.3049 Map J12 PPLA FOOD FARE 2015 March 5 Thirty-sixth annual food event features more than 100 of the city’s best restaurants, wineries and breweries and more. Taste offerings from venues including AOC, Drago Centro, the Tripel and Valerie Confections. Day session 11 am -2 pm; evening session 6:30-9:30 pm. $150-$250. Barker Hangar, 3021 Airport Ave., Santa Monica, 213.284.3300 Map L9 PALEYFEST March 6-15 The Paley Center for Media hosts this annual event with screenings and interactive panels featuring creators and stars from top TV shows including Homeland, Girls, Scandal and Jane the Virgin. Visit paleyfest.org for schedule. $30-$80. Dolby Theatre, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 310.786.1000 Map H13 L.A. MARATHON March 15 Thirtieth annual footrace begins at Dodger Stadium in Chavez Ravine and travels 26.2 miles to Santa Monica with entertainment and cheer stations along the way. Check lamarathon.com for schedule. Runner registration $190-$205. Finish line at Ocean and California avenues, Santa Monica, 213.542.3000 Map L8 CASEY’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY STREET FESTIVAL March 17 This 42nd annual all-day street festival enlivens downtown Los Angeles with food (think: reubens and cornedbeef sandwiches), games, Irish drink specials (green beer, anyone?) and sets from local DJs. Headquartered at Casey’s Irish Pub, the street festival takes place in front of the pub. Festival 11 am-11 pm; pub hours 6 am-2 am. Free general admission until 3:30 pm, $10 after 3:30 pm. 613 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213nightlife.com Map I16 THEODORE PAYNE NATIVE PLANT GARDEN TOUR March 21-22 Explore the unexpectedly lush, beautiful side of Los Angeles during this weekend of self-guided tours of nearly 50 private and public landscapes across the county. Each garden contains at least 50 percent native plants. $35. nativeplantgardentour. org, 818.768.1802 CICLAVIA—THE VALLEY March 22 Several miles of L.A.’s normally congested streets turn into a car-free park for a walk and bike tour of the city’s most celebrated attractions. The first Ciclavia of 2015 is also the event’s first venture into the San Fernando Valley, with
a route that extends between North Hollywood and Studio City, along Lankershim and Ventura boulevards. See ciclavia.org for additional route details. 9 am-4 pm. Free. 213.355.8500 Map U19 TCM CLASSIC FILM FESTIVAL March 26-29 View beloved classic films on the big screen at iconic venues at this annual film festival. This year’s theme—History According to Hollywood—explores how cinema has shaped the way audiences remember history. Choose from a wide range of movies from Roman Holiday to Pinocchio to Apollo 13. Opening night gala 50th anniversary screening of The Sound of Music with Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer in attendance is by invitation only. Check filmfestival.tcm.com for film schedule. Individual tickets $20-$30. Festival passes $299-$1,649. Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, 7000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.856.1970; TCL Chinese 6 Theatres, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.464.8111; Egyptian Theatre, 6712 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.466.3456; TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.461.3331 Map H13
Theater ENTER LAUGHING—THE MUSICAL Through March 1 Based on the semiautobiographical novel by writer-comedian Carl Reiner, this musical follows David Kolowitz, a boy from the Bronx. He hopes to make it as a Broadway star, against the wishes of his traditional Jewish parents. Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.746.4000 Map I11 POTTED POTTER: THE UNAUTHORIZED HARRY EXPERIENCE—A PARODY BY DAN AND JEFF Through March 1 Potter aficionados and the most mundane of muggles alike should enjoy this madcap marathon of all seven Harry Potter tales condensed into one 70-minute play. Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.746.4000 Map I11 CHAVEZ RAVINE Through March 1 Theater troupe Culture Clash—Richard Montoya, Ric Salinas and Herbert Siguenza—revisits its beloved play, Chavez Ravine, 12 years after its world premiere in L.A., with new insights into the ever-changing landscape of the City of Angels. Kirk Douglas Theatre, 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 213.628.2772 Map L11 SWITZERLAND Opening March 6 This new psychological thriller from playwright Joanna Murray-Smith makes its co-world premiere here with Sydney Theatre Company. Laura Linney stars as novelist Patricia Highsmith, whose career gets upended by a mysterious, handsome young man. Audrey Skirball Kenis Theater, Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., Westwood, 310.208.5454 Map J10 THE NIGHT ALIVE Through March 15 Acclaimed Irish playwright—and three-time Tony nominee—Conor McPherson casts a beautiful spell with his new play about a group of down-on-their-luck lost souls, imbued with his signature humor and humanity. Gil Cates Theater, Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., Westwood, 310.208.5454 Map J10 DAME EDNA’S GLORIOUS GOODBYE Through March 15 Australian entertainer Barry Humphries takes his hilarious and satirical alter ego, Dame Edna, for one last spin—he created the character back in 1956—during this critically acclaimed farewell tour. Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772 Map H16 WICKED Through March 15 The award-winning musical returns to L.A. with three months of performances. Learn the untold story of the witches of Oz, the “wicked”
President Eisenhower and the Beatles enjoyed the peanut butter at Magee’s House of Nuts at the Farmers Market—Ringo even sent the vendor a thank-you note. p. 78
SUNSET FROM WILL ROGERS BEACH, MARK LIPSKI
Guidelines
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Sports A scene from L.A. Opera’s 2010 production of The Barber of Seville
Elphaba and good witch Glinda, in this smash-hit prequel to The Wizard of Oz. Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.468.1770 Map H13 RODGERS + HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA Opening March 17 This live iteration of the classic rags-toriches story is both romantic and hilarious in turns. The legendary creators of The Sound of Music and South Pacific are behind the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, which boasts an orchestra and classic songs—plus some twists on the classic story. Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772 Map H16 THE PRICE Through March 22 This American classic by quintessential American playright Arthur Miller is a penetrating family drama from 1968. When two estranged brothers must rifle through their deceased father’s belongings, they uncover family secrets and hidden motives responsible for the fracture in their relationship. Tony Award winner Garry Hynes directs this revival in celebration of Miller’s centennial. Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772 Map H16 NEWSIES Opening March 24 Disney’s Tony Awardwinning Broadway musical brings its high-energy fun to L.A. Based on true events, the crowd-pleasing play tells the story of a group of newspaper boys in New York who fight for what’s right and turn from underdogs into heroes. Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.468.1770 Map H13 DUNSINANE Opening March 27 This 2010 play from David Greig—presented by the National Theatre of Scotland and the Royal Shakespeare Company—harks back to Old England with a story about a peace mission bound for Dunsinane Hill and a fierce queen unwilling to relinquish her throne. Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.746.4000 Map I11
Music + Dance DOROTHY CHANDLER PAVILION March 1 L.A. Opera, The Ghosts of Versailles, composer John Corigliano, conductor James Conlon. March 8, 11, 14, 19, 22 L.A. Opera, The Barber of Seville, conductor James Conlon. March 21, 26, 29 L.A. Opera, The Marriage of Figaro, conductor James Conlon. 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.7211 Map H16 WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL March 1 Los Angeles Philharmonic, conductor Mirga Gražinyte-Tyla. March 4 Pianist Sir András Schiff. March 5-8 L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Gustavo Dudamel. March 7 American Youth Symphony, conductor Alexander Treger, pianist Valentina Lisitsa, composer Paul Dooley. March 8 Los Angeles Master Chorale. March 10 L.A. Phil New Music Group, conductor Gustavo Dudamel, mezzo-soprano Charlotte Hellekant, violinist Jennifer Koh. March 12-13 L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Gustavo Dudamel. March 14 Hugh
STAPLES CENTER March 1 Los Angeles Lakers vs. Oklahoma City. March 4 Los Angeles Clippers vs. Portland. March 5 Los Angeles Kings vs. Montreal. March 7 Kings vs. Pittsburgh. March 8 Lakers vs. Dallas. March 9 Clippers vs. Minnesota. March 10 Lakers vs. Detroit. March 12 Lakers vs. New York. March 14 Kings vs. Nashville. March 15 Clippers vs. Houston; Lakers vs. Atlanta. March 16 Kings vs. Arizona. March 17 Clippers vs. Charlotte. March 19 Lakers vs. Utah. March 20 Clippers vs. Washington. March 21 Kings vs. Vancouver. March 22 Clippers vs. New Orleans; Lakers vs. Philadelphia. March 23 WWE Raw. March 26, 28 2015 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball. March 31 Clippers vs. Golden State. 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.742.7100 Map I15
Attractions AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC Focus is on Pacific Ocean sea life. Pet the sharks at Shark Lagoon; other exhibits include Lorikeet Forest, Turtle Vision 4D, June Keyes Penguin Habitat. March 14-15 International Children’s Day Festival, featuring children’s choir performances, martial arts demonstrations, crafts, games and more. Daily 9 am-6 pm except Christmas and during the Grand Prix of Long Beach. $14.95$28.95, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map O16 BARNDSALL ART PARK 11-acre park in the Los Feliz/ Hollywood area that features Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House, which recently reopened for tours, as well as the Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery, Barnsdall Art Center, Junior Art Center and Barnsdall Gallery Theatre. Park 5am-10pm; Municipal Art Gallery Th-Sun noon5pm; house tours 11am-4pm. Hollyhock House tours $3-$7 (credit card only). 4800 Hollywood Blvd., L.A., 323.913.4031, barnsdall.org Map W22 CATALINA EXPRESS Year-round boat service to Catalina Island; daily departures from Long Beach, Dana Point, San Pedro. Reservation recommended. Call for hours. San Pedro, Long Beach: $29.50-$37.25 one-way, $59-$74.50 round-trip; Dana Point: $30.50-$38.25 one-way, $61-$76.50 round-trip; under 2 $2.50 one-way, $5 round-trip. Ride free on your birthday. 800.481.3470, catalinaexpress.com DESCANSO GARDENS Collections include coast live oaks, roses, an award-winning camellia garden and more. Enjoy family-friendly festivals, performances, classes and activities for children. The new Oak Woodland is Descanso’s first major garden addition in 30 years. Daily 9 am-5 pm except Christmas. $4-$9, under 5 free. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, 818.949.4200 Map Q19 DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE PARK Soarin’ Over California, A Bug’s Land, Toy Story Mania!, Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, Cars Land and more. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $90-$96, under 3 free. 1600 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map D6 DISNEYLAND Mickey Mouse’s theme park. Attractions include Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage. Updated Star Tours, Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain. Fireworks, fantastic Fantasmic! continues. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $90$96, under 3 free. 1600 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map D6
EGYPTIAN THEATRE Restored 1922 Hollywood landmark screens classics, cult favorites, indie films. Excellent Forever Hollywood screenings are exclusive to the theater. Call for schedule and pricing. 6712 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.466.3456 Map H13 EL CAPITAN THEATRE 1926 Spanish-style movie palace screens Disney films new and old. Musical accompaniment to many shows. Tours available. Call or visit elcapitantheatre.disney.com for details, schedule. $13-$16. VIP admission with reserved seat $26 and pricing. 6838 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.7674 Map H13 FARMERS MARKET Local landmark with 120 produce stalls, restaurants and gift shops in open-air setting. M-F 9 am-9 pm; Sa 9 am-8 pm; Su 10 am-7 pm. 6333 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.933.9211 Map I13 GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY Iconic attraction overlooking Hollywood. 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 L.A. LIVE Bustling entertainment center is home to the Grammy Museum, Nokia Theatre and Club Nokia; restaurants including Nest at WP24 and Tom’s Urban; high-tech bowling lanes; and nightspots such as the Conga Room. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.763.5483 Map I15 L.A. ZOO AND BOTANICAL GARDENS More than 250 wildlife species (many of which are rare or endangered) and 800 plant species in parklike setting. New Rainforest of the Americas exhibit. Daily 10 am-5 pm except Christmas. Ticket sales cease one hour prior to closing time. $14-$19, under 2 free. 5333 Zoo Drive, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.644.4200 Map T23 LEGOLAND Find 50-plus rides and shows and Sea Life Aquarium’s new Jellyfish Discovery’s 7-foot-long Lego submarine. Just-opened Legends of Chima Water Park features an interactive wave pool, water slides and more (reopens for the season this spring). See california.legoland.com for hours, ticket packages and discounts. Parking $15-25. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.5346 MADAME TUSSAUDS Step behind the scenes to recreate favorite film and musical moments at the world-famous museum of wax figures. Taylor Swift is new. M-F 10 am-7 pm, Sa until 8 pm. $22.95-$29.95, under 3 free. 6933 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.798.1670 Map H13 POINT VICENTE INTERPRETIVE CENTER Located on a bluff on the southwestern corner of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, this small park adjacent to the Point Vicente Lighthouse offers a whale-watching deck and an interpretive center featuring exhibits about local history and ecology. 31501 Palos Verdes Drive, Rancho Palos Verdes, 310.377.5370 Map O13 PACIFIC PARK Amusement park at the end of the famous Santa Monica Pier offers games, food and rides, including a Ferris wheel. Individual rides $4-$6, wristbands $16.95-$24.95. See pacpark.com for hours. 380 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, 310.260.8744 Map M8 QUEEN MARY SHIP AND SEAPORT Historic ocean liner—bigger than the Titanic!—permanently berthed in Long Beach Harbor. Shops, hotel, art deco lounge and restaurants including Sir Winston’s. Russian Foxtrot-class submarine Scorpion is adjacent. 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 SAN ANTONIO WINERY Complimentary tastings and tour of the only producing winery in L.A., which celebrates its 98th anniversary this year. Restaurant and wine shop on-site. Su-Th 9 am-7 pm; F-Sa until 8 pm. 737 Lamar St., downtown, 323.223.1401 Map G17
ROBERT MILLARD
Masekela & Vusi Mahlasela, Ladysmith Black Mambazo. March 15 Pianist Murray Perahia. March 21 Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea. March 22 Pianist Lang Lang. March 24 London Symphony Orchestra, conductor Michael Tilson Thomas, pianist Yuja Wang. March 29 Gil Shaham, original films by David Michalek. 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 323.850.2000 Map H16
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1816 W
FACE TO FACE WITH
wonder
Connect with the sea and go on amazing adventures and exhilarating rides at SeaWorld.® Be inspired by spectacular shows or go hands-in at the all-new attraction, Explorer’s Reef.® Experience up-close animal encounters and learn about the incredible rescues and groundbreaking research that make SeaWorld a world leader in animal care. For more than 50 years — SeaWorld Cares.®
SeaWorldSanDiego.com © 2015 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.
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Attractions + Museums
THE GRAMMY MUSEUM® PRESENTS
SAN GABRIEL MISSION Mission includes the oldest building (1771) in Southern California. M-Sa 9 am-4:30 pm; Su 10 am-4 pm. $3-$5, under 6 free. 427 S. Junipero Serra Drive, San Gabriel, 626.457.3035 Map B4 SCORPION RUSSIAN SUBMARINE Tour the Scorpion, moored next to the historic Queen Mary ocean liner. Daily 10 am-6 pm. $12-$14, under 5 free. Must be at least 48 inches tall to board submarine. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 877.342.0738 Map O16 SEAWORLD The 189-acre adventure park features thousands of marine animals including killer whales plus fish, reptiles and birds. $80-$86; under 3 free. Parking: $14-$19. Open daily; call for hours, ticket packages and discounts. 500 SeaWorld Drive, San Diego 800.25.SHAMU Map I8
SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN Theme park has 17 coasters, plus dozens of rides and attractions for kids and families including world’s tallest, fastest and longest flying coaster, Tatsu, and the world’s tallest vertical drop, Lex Luthor: Drop of Doom. Call or visit sixflags.com for hours. $44.99-$69.99, under 3 free. 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Valencia, 661.255.4100 Map A2 TCL CHINESE THEATRE Historic, restored Hollywood movie palace (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre) with giant Imax screen and walkway of stars’ hand- and footprints in the forecourt. Visit tclchinesetheatres.com or call for movie schedule. 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.461.3331 Map H13
ON OPEN EXHIBITI 10, 2015 14 - MAY 0 2 , 3 1 DECEMBER
UNIVERSAL CITYWALK Eye-popping dining, shopping and entertainment promenade includes boutiques such as Fossil, Guess? and Abercrombie & Fitch, novelty stores and state-of-the-art cinema and Imax theater. iFly Hollywood is a simulated skydiving wind tunnel. Call for hours. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.4455 Map U20
WWW.GRAMMYMUSEUM.ORG
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD World’s biggest motion picture/TV studio. Rides include the 3-D, ultra-HD movie motion-simulator ride Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem and adjacent Super Silly Fun Land. Tram studio tour includes King Kong 360 3-D and film and TV sets. VIP Experience is private guided tour through prop warehouse, working movie sets, soundstages and more. Call for hours. $84-$92, under 3 free. Front-of-line pass $139-$179. VIP Experience $299. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 800.864.8377 Map U20
Studio Tours PARAMOUNT PICTURES STUDIO TOUR Two-hour group tour of the longest-operating and only remaining major studio in Hollywood. Reservation required. Tours daily (except some holidays) every half hour 9:30 am-2 pm. $53; VIP tour $178, under 10 not admitted. 5555 Melrose Ave., Hollywood, 323.956.1777 Map I14 SONY PICTURES STUDIO TOUR Two-hour walking tour of working motion picture studio includes sets of television shows and films. Reservation, photo ID required. M-F 9:30 am-2:30 pm. $40, under 12 not admitted. Parking free. 10202 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.244.8687 Map L11 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD Legendary studio tour. VIP Experience includes private tour of movie studio, prop warehouse, front-of-line privileges and gourmet lunch. Call for hours. $87-$92, under 3 free. Front-of-line pass $139-$179. VIP Experience $299. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.3801 Map U20 WARNER BROS. STUDIOS Two-hour VIP tour of working TV and film studio includes backlots, soundstages, costume department, museum, new Batman exhibit and observation of filming when possible. Deluxe tour available. Reservation recommended; photo ID required. Daily except Christmas 8:15 am-4 pm. $54,
Explore 113 lush acres with more than 1,100 animals, a kids’ play park, Safari Shuttle and gorgeous carousel. All conveniently located in Griffith Park, where the 5 and 134 FWYs meet. Plan your adventure today at LAZoo.org
Open daily, 10 A M – 5 PM
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under 8 not admitted. 3400 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank, 818.972.8687 Map U20
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Studio Tapings AUDIENCES UNLIMITED Free tickets to live tapings of TV shows on CBS, Fox, NBC and CW, such as The Big Bang Theory, 2 Broke Girls and Two and a Half Men. Minimum age 10-18, varies by show. 818.260.0041, ext. 1, tvtickets.com THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW Free tickets to taping of comedian’s daytime talk show. Minimum age 14; minors must show photo ID and be accompanied by a parent. Advance tickets, go to ellen.warnerbros.com/tickets; dayof tickets, call before noon. Warner Bros. Studios, 3400 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank, 818.954.5929 Map U20 JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE! Free tickets to live tapings of late-night ABC show. Minimum age 18. El Capitan Entertainment Centre, 6840 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 1iota.com Map H13 ON-CAMERA AUDIENCES Free tickets to live tapings of TV shows including Celebrity Name Game, The Price Is Right and American Idol. Minimum age varies by show. 818.295.2700, mytvtickets.com
MUSEUM OF TOLERANCE www.museumoftolerance.com
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PARAMOUNT STUDIOS Tickets to show tapings offered first come, first served five days in advance and via website. Minimum age 16-18, varies by show. (Dr. Phil tickets, 323.461.7445, Audience@CBSParamount.com.) 5555 Melrose Ave., Hollywood, 323.956.1777, tvtickets.com Map I14
Museums AUTRY NATIONAL CENTER Through March 8 Masters of the American West Fine Art Exhibition and Sale (2015). Continuing Floral Journey: Native North American Beadwork; Kim Stringfellow’s Jackrabbit Homestead. Ongoing Four Centuries of Pueblo Pottery; Art of the West; Western Frontiers: Stories of Fact and Fiction. Tu-F 10 am-4 pm, Sa-Su until 5 pm. $4-$10, under 3 free. 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.667.2000 Map H14 CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER Interactive exhibits for budding scientists. Opening March 10 Dead Sea Scrolls: The Exhibition. Ongoing Mission 26: The Big Endeavour. Daily 10 am-5 pm. Permanent exhibition gallery, free; admission for other exhibits and Imax varies. Parking $10. 700 Exposition Park Drive, Exposition Park, L.A., 323.724.3623 Map K15 DISCOVERY CUBE L.A. New 71,000-square-foot children’s science center offers traveling and permanent high-tech exhibits aimed at teaching science, technology, engineering, math, healthy living and environmental stewardship through hands-on activities. Science of Hockey exhibit with the L.A. Kings opens spring 2015. 10 am-5 pm (daily) except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Special grand-opening admission price of $10 per person through June 30, 2015; thereafter, $12.95-$16.95. Under 3 free. 11800 Foothill Blvd., L.A., 818.686.2823 Map north of A2
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et closer to our animals than ever before and see all that is new at the Aquarium of the Pacific.
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FASHION INSTITUTE OF DESIGN AND MERCHANDISING (FIDM) Museum and galleries on fashion school campus. Continuing 23rd Annual Art of Motion Picture Costume Design; Opulent Art: 18th-Century Dress From The Helen Larson Historic Fashion Collection. Ongoing Artfully Adorned: Jewelry From the Christie Romero Collection. Tu-Sa 10 am-5 pm (Annette Green Fragrance Archive, M-Sa). Free. 919 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.623.5821 Map I16 GETTY CENTER Travertine-clad hilltop facility houses stunning collections of paintings, drawings, antiquities, photographs and decorative arts. Through March 15 Give and Ye Shall Receive: Gift Giving in the Middle Ages. Through March 22 Josef Koudelka: Nationality Doubtful.
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Attractions + Museums Opening March 31 Renaissance Splendors of the Northern Italian Courts. Continuing In Focus: Play; World War I: War of Images, Images of War; Zeitgeist: Art in the Germanic World, 1800-1900; J.M.W. Turner: Painting Set Free. Ongoing The Life of Art: Context, Collecting, and Display. Tu-F, Su 10 am-5:30 pm, Sa until 9 pm. Free. Parking $15, $10 Sa after 5 pm. 1200 Getty Center Drive, L.A., 310.440.7300 Map H9 GETTY VILLA Getty Center’s exquisite coastal counterpart features Roman and Greek antiquities. Continuing Dangerous Perfection: Funerary Vases From Southern Italy; Ancient Luxury and the Roman Silver Treasure From Berthouville; Relief With Antiochos and Herakles. W-M 10 am-5 pm. Free. Parking $15, $10 after 5 pm for evening programs. Advance timed tickets required for entry. 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades, 310.440.7300 Map K7 GRAMMY MUSEUM Museum on L.A. Live campus explores music, the creative and recording processes, and Grammy Award history. Continuing All Eyez on Me: The Writings of Tupac Shakur; Donna Summer: Four Seasons of Love; Lead Belly: A Musical Legacy; Pepe Aguilar … La Leyenda Continúa; Pride & Joy: The Texas Blues of Stevie Ray Vaughan; The Taylor Swift Experience. (See grammymuseum.org for ongoing and permanent exhibits.) M-F 11:30 am-7:30 pm, Sa-Su 10 am-7:30 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. Through March 1 Hammer Projects: Maria Hassabi; Hammer Projects: Francis Upritchard. Opening March 8 Hammer Projects: Lauren Bon and Metabolic Studio. Continuing Hammer Projects: This Is the End; Hammer Projects: Pedro Reyes; Charles Gaines: Gridwork 1974-1989; Apparitions: Frottages and Rubbings From 1860 to Now; Hammer Projects: Lily van der Stokker; Provocations: The Architecture and Design of Heatherwick Studio. Tu-F 11 am-8 pm, Sa-Su 11 am-5 pm. Free. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Westwood, 310.443.7000 Map J10
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HOLLYWOOD MUSEUM Located in the historic Max Factor Building, steps from the Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Museum houses 10,000 authentic showbiz treasures that showcase a century of Hollywood’s entertainment industry. Don’t miss Max Factor’s makeup rooms, where Marilyn Monroe became a blonde and Lucille Ball a redhead. Continuing Celebration of Entertainment Awards. W-Su 10 am-5 pm. $5-$15. 1660 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.464.7776 Map H13 HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART COLLECTIONS, AND BOTANICAL GARDENS Art, buildings and grounds, with more than a dozen themed gardens. New education and visitor center. Through March 9 Bruce Davidson/ Paul Caponigro: Two American Photographers in Britain and Ireland. Through March 16 Eccentric Visions: Drawings by Henry Fuseli, William Blake, and Their Contemporaries. Through March 30 Henry Fuseli’s The Three Witches. Continuing Working Women: Images of Female Labor in the Art of Thomas Rowlandson; The U.S. Constitution and the End of American Slavery; Samuel F.B. Morse’s “Gallery of the Louvre” and the Art of Invention. M, W-F noon-4:30 pm, Sa-Su 10:30 am-4:30 pm. $8-$23, under 5 free. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, 626.405.2141 Map R21 JAPANESE AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM Promotes understanding of ethnic diversity with a focus on the Japanese American experience. Continuing Hello! Exploring the Supercute World of Hello Kitty. Ongoing Common Ground: The Heart of Community. Tu-W, F-Su 11 am-5 pm; Th noon-8 pm. $5-$9, under 6 free. 100 N. Central Ave., downtown, 213.625.0414 Map H17 LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART Diverse, superb collections housed on 20-acre campus. Through March 1 Art of the Samurai: Swords, Paintings, Prints, and Textiles; Close-Up and Personal: EighteenthCentury Gold Boxes from the Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Collection. Through March 8 A Taste for the Antique: Neoclassical Drawings From the Permanent Collection.
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“The Official Museum of Hollywood” -Hollywood’s Honorary Mayor, Johnny Grant
IN THE HISTORIC MAX FACTOR BUILDING
Opening March 14 From the Archives: Art and Technology at LACMA, 1967–1971. Through March 22 Variations: Conversations in and Around Abstract Painting. Opening March 29 Raku: The Cosmos in a Tea Bowl. (See lacma.org for continuing and ongoing exhibits.) M-Tu, Th 11 am-5 pm, F until 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. Opening March 20 William Pope.L: Trinket (GC); Sturtevant: Double Trouble (GA); Kahlil Joseph: m.A.A.d (GA). Continuing Bernhard Willhelm 3000: When Fashion Shows the Danger Then Fashion Is the Danger (PDC); Selections From the Permanent Collection (GA). GA and GC: M, F 11 am-5 pm; Th until 8 pm; Sa-Su until 6 pm. PDC: Tu-F 11 am-5 pm; Sa-Su until 6 pm. $7-$12, under 12 free, Th 5-8 pm 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 and human-rights issues, plus an immersive look at Anne Frank’s life and legacy. (See museumoftolerance. com for additional exhibits.) Su-W, F 10 am-5 pm; Th until 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 NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY Thirty-three million objects from dino fossils to fish. The 3.5-acre Nature Gardens and interactive Nature Lab are new to the museum. The Tyrannosaurus rex growth series is a highlight of the Dinosaur Hall. (See nhm.org for additional exhibits.) Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. $5-$12, under 3 free. 900 Exposition Blvd., Exposition Park, L.A., 213.763.3466 Map K15
Milton Greene Photograph, 1953 © Copyright 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! “#1 Hollywood Tourist Attraction” –LA Weekly “One of LA’s Top 10 Museums” –LA Tourism and Convention Board “Certificate of Excellence” –Trip Advisor
Open: Wed. - Sun. 10am-5pm Special March Exhibits
Celebration of Awards Season Marilyn: The Exhibit 100 Years of Hollywood’s Showbiz Treasures 1660 North Highland Avenue at Hollywood Boulevard Hollywood, California 90028 323.464.7776 www.TheHollywoodMuseum.com
NORTON SIMON MUSEUM Stellar collection of Renaissance to 20th-century masterworks and sculpture garden. Through March 2 Manet’s “The Railway,” on Loan From the National Gallery of Art, Washington. Opening March 6 Human/Nature: Photographers Constructing the Natural World. Opening March 27 Tête-à-tête: Three Masterpieces from the Musée d’Orsay. Continuing Lock, Stock and Barrel: Norton Simon’s Purchase of Duveen Brothers Gallery. M, W-Th noon-5 pm, Fri-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 PAGE MUSEUM AT THE LA BREA TAR PITS Watch paleontologists at work uncovering Ice Age L.A. The main attractions are the Attractions include 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 SKIRBALL CULTURAL CENTER The American Jewish experience. Through March 1 Light & Noir: Exiles and Émigrés in Hollywood, 1933-1950; The Noir Effect. Through March 10 Café Vienne. Opening March 24 Rock & Roll Billboards of the Sunset Strip. Ongoing Noah’s Ark at the Skirball; Visions and Values: Jewish Life from Antiquity to America. Tu-F noon-5 pm, Sa-Su 10 am-5 pm. $5-$10, under 2 free, free Th. 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A., 310.440.4500 Map G9
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 and dining options. Boutiques include Kate Spade, Kiehl’s, Sugarfina and David Yurman; other draws include Pacific Theatres cinema. 889 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.637.8900 Map U23
BEVERLY CENTER Trendsetting mall near West Hollywood has more than 100 boutiques (Burberry, Fendi, Gucci, Hugo Boss, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Saint Laurent, Tiffany & Co., Z Zegna, new Uniqlo and a new True Religion concept store) and restaurants including the Capital Grille. Anchors include Macy’s, Macy’s Men’s Store and Bloomingdale’s. 8500 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.854.0070 Map I12 CAMARILLO PREMIUM OUTLETS Find deep discounts on the best names in fashion, family and home at this luxury outlet center just north of Los Angeles County. More than 160 stores are represented, including Barneys New York, BCBG Max Azria, St. John and Restoration Hardware. The Promenade is anchored by Neiman Marcus Last Call and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH. 740 E. Ventura Blvd., Camarillo, 805.445.8520 Map Northwest of A1 CITADEL OUTLETS Assyrian architecture south of downtown stands out along the Golden State (5) Freeway; the center offers discounted duds 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, casual eateries and food purveyors such as Lotería Grill, Mendocino Farms and Sprinkles Cupcakes, plus shops including City Target, Zara and H&M. Gold’s Gym also on-site. 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 more than 39 shops including Apple and Diane von Furstenberg, plus Nordstrom and restaurants in a setting that suggests a grand old downtown. Movie theater, trolley and dancing fountain are draws. Multitiered “Privileges” membership program offers benefits including discounted self- and valet parking, private shopping events, restaurant tastings and personal styling service. Adjacent to Farmers Market. 189 The Grove Drive, L.A., 888.315.8883 Map I13 HOLLYWOOD & HIGHLAND Home of the Academy Awards’ Dolby Theatre. Tinseltown-themed retail, dining and entertainment center features several restaurants, a cinema, high-tech bowling lanes, stores such as Louis Vuitton and Lucky Brand Jeans, plus a 28,000-square-foot Sweet! candy store and Wyland Gallery. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.6412 Map H13 MALIBU COUNTRY MART Outdoor center with upscale boutiques such as Curve, Letarte swimwear, Vintage Malibu and Madison, plus Cie Sparks salon, a children’s play area and other amenities and services. Restaurants include Tra di Noi and Taverna Tony. 3835 and 3900 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.7300 Map northwest of K7 MALIBU LUMBER YARD Small collection of upscale retailers adjacent to Malibu Country Mart, including Alice + Olivia, Maxfield, Kitson, Vilebrequin, Alexis Bittar and Tory Burch. 3939 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.7395 Map northwest of K7 ONE COLORADO Outdoor plaza with boutiques such as Gold Bug, Oska, Mohawk General Store, Cop. Copine and Vince, plus deluxe movie theater Ipic Theaters. Refuel after retail therapy at Italian restaurant Il Fornaio, AKA Bistro, Dots Cupcakes or Sushi Roku. 41 Hugus Alley, Old Pasadena, 626.564.1066 Map Q19 ONTARIO MILLS OUTLETS California’s largest outlet shopping destination. Among 200 stores are Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss Factory Store, DKNY, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Last Call by Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom Rack. Thirty-screen cineplex. 1 Mills Circle, Ontario, 909.484.8300 Map east of B6 SANTA MONICA PLACE Sleek outdoor mall at one end of Third Street Promenade. Anchored by Nord-
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Nightlife strom and Bloomingdale’s. More than 80 boutiques including 7 for All Mankind, CB2 and Barneys New York. Rooftop dining deck with food court, restaurants and gourmet market. 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, 310.394.1049 Map L8 SOUTH COAST PLAZA High-end center boasts nearly 300 boutiques, 30 restaurants and several spas. Stores include Chanel, Gucci, Valentino, Chloé, Jimmy Choo, Christian Dior. Concierge at four locations. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map E6 SUNSET PLAZA Upscale row of boutiques and sidewalk cafés. Calypso, Calleen Cordero and H. Lorenzo stores; Ole Henriksen spa and Eden by Eden Sassoon salon. 8600-8700 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.652.2622 Map H12 THIRD STREET PROMENADE Pedestrian-only shopping zone includes Zara, Cotton On, Converse, Anthropologie, kiosks and a wide array of very entertaining street performers. 1351 3rd St. Promenade, Santa Monica, 310.393.8355 Map L8 TWO RODEO Center with cobblestones in the heart of Beverly Hills features high-end boutiques including Jimmy Choo, Vilebrequin and Tiffany & Co., plus restaurants such as 208 Rodeo and fine art gallery Galerie Michael. 9478 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.247.7040 Map J11 WESTFIELD AT LAX Visitors flying out of LAX can enjoy some of the city’s top retail and dining establishments, curated by Westfield, in the Tom Bradley International Terminal. Shop at Fred Segal, Tumi, Emporio Armani, Porsche Design and more. Fine-dining options include James’ Beach and Border Grill. 380 World Way, L.A., 310.646.1770 Map O10 WESTFIELD CENTURY CITY Open-air mall with more than 175 stores, including Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s and Tiffany & Co. Luxe AMC multiplex with Imax screen, beautiful food court atrium and terrace, and restaurants including Obica Mozzarella Bar and Toscanova. 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Century City, 310.277.3898 Map J11 WESTFIELD SANTA ANITA Fresh from a $20M renovation and anchored by Nordstrom and Macy’s, this shopping center’s stores include Sephora, Urban Home and H&M, entertainment venues including AMC Theatres and a Jump ’n Jammin Children’s Center. 400 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, 626.445.3116 Map R23 WESTSIDE PAVILION Center south of Westwood Village is anchored by Nordstrom and Macy’s. Landmark theater is the county’s most spectacular indie cineplex. 10800 W. Pico Blvd., West L.A., 310.474.6255 Map J11
Nightlife 1 OAK Strikingly seductive, art-filled club just in from New York where popping bottles of Cristal renew the glamour of the Sunset Strip. 9039 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.274.2326 Map H12 ACABAR Exotic Moroccan-themed restaurant and lounge with classic cocktails including a flaming Zombie. where popping bottles of Cristal renew the glamour of the Sunset Strip 1510 N. Stanley Ave., L.A., 323.876.1400 Map H13 AVALON Newly renovated dance club and concert venue. 1735 Vine St., Hollywood, 323.462.8900 Map H14 BAR JACKALOPE Intimate bar hidden in the back of downtown’s Seven Grand, featuring more than 120 premium whiskeys, including many of the au courant Japanese labels. 515 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.614.0736 Map I16 BIGFOOT LODGE Kitschy log-cabin-themed watering hole. 3172 Los Feliz Blvd., Atwater Village, 323.662.9227;
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GLASS SLIPPERS ARE SO BACK.
Bigfoot West, 10939 Venice Blvd., Culver City, 310.287.2200 Map northeast of V23, M11 THE BLIND DONKEY Impressive roster of premium whiskeys, whiskey cocktails and craft beers, with locations in in Old Pasadena and Long Beach. 53 E. Union St., Pasadena, 626.792.1833; 149 Linden Ave., Long Beach, 562.247.1511 Map Q19, N16 THE BRIG Former dive bar has new look. DJ Tu-Su. 1515 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.399.7537 Map N9 BLIND BARBER Craft-cocktail-driven speakeasy hidden in the rear of a barbershop. 10797 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.841.6679 Map L11 CAÑA RUM BAR Premium rum bar with some 140 small-batch rums and cigar pairings. Annual $20 membership fee waived Fridays 6-8 pm. 714 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.745.7090 Map I16
S T E K C TI ON NOW LE! SA
CITY TAVERN Friendly gastropub with craft brews, California wines and cocktails. Booths at Culver City location are outfitted with computerized craft brew taps; patrons pour their own. 9739 Culver Blvd., Culver City, 310.838.9739; FIGat7th, 735 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.239.5654 Map L11, H16 THE CULVER HOTEL Historic hotel in the heart of Culver City is home to the Grand Lobby Bar, with nightly live jazz, and upstairs, the newly renovated, Prohibitioninspired Velvet Lounge. 9400 Culver Blvd., Culver City, 310.558.9400 Map L11 THE ECHO Hip Echo Park dance club books local and indie bands. DJs, dancing; Echoplex is downstairs. 1822 Sunset Blvd., Echo Park, 213.413.8200; Echoplex, 1154 Glendale Blvd., Echo Park, 213.413.8200 Map G16 THE EDISON Posh renovated power plant. Get there early. Dress code. 108 W. 2nd St., downtown, 213.613.0000 Map H17 EL CARMEN Nearly 400 tequilas, Mexican wrestler decor. 8138 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.852.1552 Map I12 EL REY THEATRE Hot indie bands play art deco theater on Miracle Mile. 5515 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.936.6400 Map J13 FATHER’S OFFICE Casual bar with an impressive beer selection and food. Don’t miss the famed burger (no substitutions allowed). 1018 Montana Ave., Santa Monica, 310.393.2337; 3229 Helms Ave., Culver City, 310.736.2224 Map L8, L11 HARVARD & STONE Fine cocktails in a grittychic industrial space. 5221 Hollywood Blvd., L.A., 323.466.6063 Map W22 GOOD TIMES AT DAVEY WAYNE’S ‘70s-themed bar from the Houston brothers. 1611 N. El Centro Ave., L.A., 323.962.3804 Map H14 GRANDPA JOHNSON’S Nightlife veteran Johnny Zander makes cocktails a family affair at his stylish new art deco lounge. 1638 N. Cahuenga Blvd., L.A., 323.467.7300 Map H14
THE TONY AWARD®-WINNING MUSICAL FROM THE CREATORS OF
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AHMANSON THEATRE MAR 17 – APR 26, 2015 213.972.4400 CenterTheatreGroup.org season sponsor
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HARLOWE New York mixologist Dushan Zaric and highprofile chef Eric Greenspan consulted on the menus for this vintage-glam restaurant and bar. 7321 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.876.5839 Map H13 HYDE SBE lounge that spawned offshoots around the country. Reservation recommended; open during arena concerts and games. Hyde at Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 323.330.8018 Map I15 HONEYCUT Inventive cocktails and a colorful, underlit glass dance floor await at this subterranean spot. 819 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.688.0888 Map I16
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Beaches renowned architectural firm. 6356 Hollywood Blvd., L.A., 323.469.0040 Map H13 THE ROGER ROOM Hidden speakeasy with creative cocktails. 370 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.854.1300 Map J12 THE ROXY THEATRE Historic rock ‘n’ roll venue on the strip. 9009 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.276.2222 Map H12 SASSAFRAS Lounge styled as a (stylishly) decaying Savannah townhouse specializes in barrel-aged cocktails. 1233 N. Vine St., Hollywood, 323.467.2800 Map H14
HOUSE OF BLUES Big-name bands in faux bayou setting. 8430 Sunset Blvd.,West Hollywood, 323.848.5100 MapH12 LAS PERLAS Festive tequila and mezcal bar with sophisticated cocktails. 107 E. 6th St., downtown, 213.988.8355 Map I16 LAUGH FACTORY Famed comedy nightclub. 8001 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.656.1336; 151 S. Pine Ave., Long Beach, 562.495.2844 Map H12, N16 MELROSE UMBRELLA CO. Rustic-chic space where creative cocktails are paired with gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches from Eric Greenspan. 17465 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.951.0709 Map I12 NEXT DOOR LOUNGE Barrel-aged spirits and classic cocktails served with 1920s panache. Menu by chef/Food Network Star finalist Nikki Martin. 1154 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.465.5505 Map H15 THE NICE GUY H.wood Group’s reservation-only, Italian-inspired restaurant and mixology lounge. 401 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.360.9500 Map I12 THE OCEAN LOUNGE Overlooks beach cliffs. Oceana Santa Monica, 849 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.393.0486 Map L8 NO VACANCY Gin cocktails and live entertainment in a Victorian boutique hotel. 1727 N. Hudson Ave., Hollywood, 323.465.1902 Map H14 ORPHEUM THEATRE Historic venue offers alt- rock and special events. 842 S. Broadway, downtown, 877.677.4386 Map I16 THE OTHEROOM Microbrews and wines by the glass, New York City-style. 1201 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.396.6230 Map N9 PERCH Open-air roost in a historic building; indoor cabaret lounge Bar Thirteen is underneath. 448 S. Hill St., downtown, 213.802.1770 Map I16 THE PIKEY London meets Los Angeles at British gastropub and cocktail bar. 7617 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, 323.850.5400 Map H13 POT LOBBY BAR The bar outside Roy Choi’s Pot serves inventive culinary-inspired libations with ingredients like celery, basil, kimchi and curry. The Line Hotel, 3515 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 213.368.3030 Map J14 POUR VOUS Parisian-inspired Champagne and cocktail salon. Upscale dress code. 5574 Melrose Ave., Hollywood, 323.871.8699 Map I14 PROJECT LOS ANGELES A branch of a famous London venue complete with designs from Gensler, the world-
THE SATELLITE Alt-music venue (formerly known as Spaceland) books under-the-radar indie bands. 1717 Silver Lake Blvd., Silver Lake, 323.661.4380 Map W23 THE SAYERS CLUB Exclusive lounge/restaurant with live music and bar in the backroom and food and cocktails served in the newer front room. 1645 Wilcox Ave., Hollywood, 323.871.8233 Map H14 SOUND Industrial-style dance club. 1642 Las Palmas Ave., Hollywood, 323.656.4800 Map H14 SEVEN GRAND Whiskey bar with tongue-in-cheek hunt-club decor. 515 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.614.0737 Map I16 SEVENTY7 Hidden, mixology-focused Culver City speakeasy; look for the alley entrance. Second location dubbed Seventy7 North in Studio City. 3843 Main St., Culver City, 310.559.7707; 12514 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.985.9021 Map L11,U18 THE STANDARD DOWNTOWN Rooftop bar with panoramic city views, pool, vibrating red waterbeds. 550 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.892.8080 Map I16 THE STANDARD HOLLYWOOD Lounge with swinging seats, glowing purple walls. 8300 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.650.9090 Map H12 STARK BAR Alfresco bar at LACMA with handcrafted cocktails and great small plates. Don’t miss Friday night jazz. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, 323.857.6180 Map J13 £10 Pronounced “ten pound,” this whiskey bar in the Montage Beverly Hills specializes in single-malt Scotch whisky from the Macallan. 225 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.860.7800 Map J11 TOM BERGIN’S L.A.’s quintessential Irish bar serving beers on draft, cocktails and comfort food. 840 S. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.936.7151 Map J13
WURSTKÜCHE Exotic-sausage and beer hall is a popular, boisterous neighborhood hangout. Try the duckbacon-jalapeño frank. 800 E. 3rd St., downtown; 625 Lincoln Blvd., Venice. 213.687.4444 Map I17, M9
Beaches BELMONT SHORE Wide and sandy; on-site dog beach. Along Ocean Boulevard, from 54th Place to Belmont Pier, Long Beach Map O17 CABRILLO BEACH Inside the breakwater it’s a stillwater beach, and on the ocean it’s a surf beach. Public boat launching ramp on harbor side. Beach wheelchairs available. 40th Street and Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro Map O15 DOCKWEILER STATE BEACH Near LAX. Wide expanse of beach: 3.7 miles of ocean frontage and 255 acres of beach. Bonfires permitted. Beach wheelchairs available. 12501 Vista del Mar, Playa del Rey Map C1 EL MATADOR STATE BEACH One of the prettiest beaches in L.A. County. Steep stairs lead to 18 acres of narrow, sandy beach with scenic rock formations. 32350 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu Map northwest of K9 EL PESCADOR STATE BEACH Stairs lead to 10 acres of narrow, sandy beach. 32900 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu Map northwest of K9 HERMOSA BEACH Two-mile stretch of beach along Santa Monica Bay extending toward the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Metered street parking. Hermosa Avenue and 33rd Street, Hermosa Beach Map L13 LEO CARRILLO STATE BEACH 1.5 miles of beach for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing and beachcombing. Tide pools, coastal caves and reefs for exploring. There are two sections of beach along a loop road of a campground. 36000 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu Map northwest of K9 MALIBU BEACH 167-acre beach includes Malibu Pier and Malibu Lagoon with museum. 23050 and 23200 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu Map northwest of K9 MALIBU SURFRIDER BEACH World-renowned surfing area. Swimming areas exist but are limited. 23050 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu Map northwest of K9
TOWER BAR Tony bar at Sunset Tower Hotel; pianist in tails plays at the baby grand. 8358 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.848.6677 Map H12
MANHATTAN BEACH Beach is bisected by a 900-foot pier. Classic sand volleyball beach nets extend to Hermosa Beach. Metered street and lot parking. Beach wheelchairs available. 400-4500 The Strand, Manhattan Beach Map L13
TROUBADOUR Historic spot books up-and-coming alt-rock and local bands. 9081 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.276.1158 Map H12
MARINA/MOTHER’S BEACH Non-ocean-facing beach best suited for children and windsurfers. Beach wheelchairs available. 4135 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey Map N9
UPSTAIRS Sip drinks and enjoy stunning city views atop Ace Hotel, in the historic United Artists Building. 929 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.623.3233 Map I16
NICHOLAS CANYON BEACH Less crowded than many Malibu beaches and has 23 acres of property. 33850 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu Map northwest of K9
VILLAINS TAVERN Stylish haunt in the Arts District. Indoor bar for cocktails, outdoor bar for craft beers and flavor-paired shots. 1356 Palmetto St., downtown, 213.613.0766 Map east of I17
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
THE VARNISH The mixing of Prohibition-era cocktails is an art form at this bar in the back of Cole’s diner. 118 E. 6th St., downtown, 213.622.9999 Map I17
REDONDO BEACH A 1.5-mile beach that runs south of the pier to Torrance Beach. 400-1700 Esplanade, Redondo Beach Map M13
VIPER ROOM Tiny, nitty-gritty live-music venue. 8852 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.358.1881 Map H12
SANTA MONICA STATE BEACH Wide, sandy expanses divided by Santa Monica Pier. 100-2900 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica Map M8
CARRIE SHALTZ
A Fuzzy Navel and Long Island Ice Tea at Pot Lobby Bar in the Line Hotel
WHISKY A GO-GO Legendary rock Rock and Roll Hall of Famer still rocks. 8901 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.652.4202 Map H12
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Tours +Transport
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TOPANGA BEACH The first real beach in Malibu is rocky and narrow. A popular surfing spot, but too rocky for safe swimming. Beach wheelchairs available. 18700 Pacific Coast Hwy., Topanga Map northwest of K9
Fine French Cuisine with a Japanese Flair
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 Bicycle Trail. Beach wheelchairs available. 17700 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades Map K7
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713 East Green Street Pasadena 626 796 9501
ZUMA BEACH The ultimate SoCal beach. Food stands at each end of its 4-mile expanse along PCH. Beach wheelchairs available. 30050 block of Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu Map northwest of K7
Tours + Transport AIRPORT EXPRESS LIMOUSINE Luxury Lincoln Town Car service offering airport transfer to Los Angeles International Airport and Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, customized city tours and more transportation services. 866.800.0700, airportexpresslimos.com 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, San Francisco, Portland and Seattle. 800.872.7245, amtrak.com
Pacific Park Visit
on the
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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 BEVERLY HILLS TROLLEY TOUR Forty-minute tour of landmarks, attractions; departs from Rodeo Drive and Dayton Way. Sa-Su 11 am-4 pm. $1-$5. 310.285.2442 Map J11 BIG BLUE BUS Santa Monica city bus line covers the Westside. Well-kept environmentally friendly buses burn cleaner gas. 50 cents-$2. 310.451.5444, bigbluebus.com BIKES AND HIKES L.A. Biking and/or hiking tours in customizable or preset itineraries. Tours include LA in a Day Bike Tour, Movie Star Homes and Tour Hollywood Hills Day/Sunset Hike. Hybrid, road and mountain bike rentals. 8743 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.796.8555, bikeshikes.com Map I12 CITYPASS Southern California CityPass offers discounted admission to Disneyland Resort and Disney California Adventure (including one Magic Morning admission), Universal Studios Hollywood (including the behind-the-scenes Studio Tour, all rides and attractions) and SeaWorld San Diego. $334, ages 3-9 $291, under 3 free. Purchase pass at attractions or order online. 888.330.5008, citypass.com
MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE 20% OFF OF AN ALL DAY UNLIMITED RIDE WRISTBAND This discount is not valid when the Park is in limited operation. Please call (310) 260-8744 or check our online calendar at www.pacpark.com for operating schedule. Rates and hours of operation may vary. © 2014 Santa Monica Amusements. All Rights Reserved.
LIMOUSINE & CAR SERVICE since 1999
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DOWNTOWN ART WALK Pedestrians fill the streets of downtown Los Angeles around Spring and Main streets between 2nd and 9th streets for this self-guided gallery tour. Second Thursday of every month, noon-10 pm; lounge open from 6-10 pm. Free. 213.617.4929 ext. 206, downtownartwalk.org Map I16 EAGLE RIDER Motorcycle rentals from top brands such as Harley-Davidson, Honda, BMW, Triumph, Indians; tours offered. 454 S. Robertson Blvd., Suite A, L.A., 310.888.1831; 11860 S. La Cienega Blvd., Hawthorne, 310.536.6777, eaglerider.com Map I12, C2
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The Fun Starts Here! ! r Movie StarS HoMeS tou
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ur The #1 Celebrity To
MULTILINGUAL COMMENTARY
Movie LocationS tour - La
Tours +Transport HORNBLOWER CRUISES Take in harbor views while you dine aboard one of Hornblower’s cruises, then dance under the stars on the outdoor deck. Choose from dinner-dance and Champagne brunch options. Fisherman’s Village, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, 888.467.6256, hornblower.com Map O9 L.A. DISCOVERY TOURS Discover the beauty and diversity of Los Angeles through unique specialty tours. Offerings include tours of Santa Monica and Pasadena, hiking tours and the new Ronald Reagan Presidential Library Tour. 310.393.6555, ladiscoverytours.com LOS ANGELES CONSERVANCY Walking tours with a focus on architecture. More than a dozen fascinating walking tours focus variously on Broadway’s Historic Theatre District, the Millennium Biltmore Hotel, Union Station, Angelino Heights and more. Call for specialty tours. 213.623.2489, laconservancy.org MALIBU DISCOVERY Explore Malibu’s natural beauty and winemaking heritage through unique tours of this legendary enclave for the rich and famous. Specialty tasting tours include the popular Malibu Wine Trail Tour. 310.393.6555, malibudiscovery.com 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 Pasadena and East L.A.; Blue Line from downtown to Long Beach; Green Line from Norwalk to Redondo Beach; Expo Line from Culver City 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
Over 50 Movie Locations from 100 Hollywood Movies Other Tours Include:
TMZ Tour, 1-hour Hollywood Fun Tours, Beach Tours, Night Tours, Grand Tour of LA, Disneyland, Universal Studios, Six Flags, Warner Bros VIP Tour, Sea World, San Diego and Tijuana
Grand City Tour of L.A. available in:
Español
Italiano
English
Portuguese
Français
STARLINE TOURS Hollywood’s largest celebrity tour company offers Movie Stars’ Homes tours throughout the day. Its large repertoire also includes tours to movie locations, beaches, theme parks and San Diego. The CitySightseeing double-decker hop-on, hop-off 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
Deutsch
starlinetours.com • citysightseeingla.com /starlinetours
Tel: 1-800-959-3131 or 1-323-463-3333 Main Starline Terminal is at TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., 90028
5
MOVIE LOCATIONS TOUR—L.A. See more than 50 movie locations while viewing 100-plus clips from films shot around L.A. Tour bus features stadium seating, 65 inchHDTV and panoramic windows. $45-$60. Tours begin at TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 800.959.3131, movielocationstour. com Map H13
Santa Monica Terminal is at 1434 2nd St., Santa Monica 90401
SUPERSHUTTLE Shared-ride shuttle service to and from airport. Group rates, charters, and frequent-flier points and miles with select airlines. 800.258.3826, supershuttle.com TMZ HOLLYWOOD TOUR Bus tour with state-of-theart audio-video system explores celebrity haunts and sites of famous scandals. TMZ guides are at the ready to interview celebrities and send footage back to the newsroom. $59-$69. Tours begin at TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 855.486.9868, tmztour.com Map H13
Anaheim Terminal is at M3 Live, 2232 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim 92802
$
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OFF
PER PERSON FOR ANY TOUR TICKETS*
SPECIAL WHERE OFFER *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 6/15/15.
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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 second-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. 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. Note: Metro has installed turnstiles at many Metro Rail stations; others simply operate on the honor system. However, fare inspectors randomly check passengers for valid tickets or passes. You may never be checked, but if you are and you don’t have proof of valid fare, the inspector may issue a citation and you may be fined.
Hours
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.
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 • Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels • Museum of Contemporary Art • Music Center • Walt Disney Concert Hall 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 North Hollywood • El Portal Center for the Arts • NoHo Arts District (dining, shops, theatres)
METRO BLUE LINE
Pico • Los Angeles Convention Center • STAPLES Center/L.A. LIVE 103rd Street • Watts Towers Transit Mall • Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific • Pine Avenue (dining, shops) • Queen Mary
METRO GOLD LINE
Little Tokyo/Arts District • Japanese American National Museum Memorial Park • Norton Simon Museum Lake Avenue • Pasadena Playhouse
METRO EXPO LINE
Expo Park/USC Station • California Science Center SEE THE METRO ROUTE MAP ON PAGE 95.
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The new Factory Bar menu at The Factory Kitchen, in downtown’s Arts District. p. 63 Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy performing with his son at The Theatre at Ace Hotel March 22. 213.623.3233 Exclusively made-inL.A. gifts at the Los Angeles County Store in Silver Lake. 323.928.2781 Old-Hollywood glamour and pampering at The Ritz-Carlton Spa downtown. 213.743.8800 G&B’s Fizzy Hoppy Tea at Grand Central Market. p. 20 Redondo Beach’s hole-inthe-wall gourmet burger and sandwich joint, The Standing Room. 310.374.7545 Whale watching with Voyager Excursions in Redondo Beach. 310.944.1219
where in the world
Peerless pier dining at Malibu Farm. 310.456.1112 Dining on the romantic patio at new Terrine in West Hollywood. 323.746.5130 Figaro fever with the L.A. Opera and partnering institutions across L.A. p. 78
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Rustic cheddar grits at The Hart and the Hunter on Melrose Avenue. 323.424.3055
Comedic genius at The Groundlings Theatre in West Hollywood. 323.934.4747
The heavenly Tomoko massage at Tomoko Spa in Beverly Hills. p. 30
Lady Gaga-approved chocolate-cake purses by Bohnhoff & Kent, at the B&K Sugar Arts Lab. 310.842.7800
The model of The Budapest Hotel hotel at the Hollywood Museum’s new exhibition. p. 82
Cocktails at Redbird, Neal Fraser’s beautiful new restaurant downtown. p. 60
Authentic, upscale Mexican cuisine (from the team behind Bell’s legendary La Casita Mexicana) at Mexicano in Baldwin Hills. 323.296.0798 Baubles from the store in The Huntington’s new education and visitor center. p. 82
Heatherwick Studio’s Spun chairs at the Hammer Museum. p. 82
Salt-and-pepper lobster at Little Sister in Manhattan Beach. 310.545.2096
Bright new bags for spring at J.Crew at the Grove. p. 83
Housemade English muffins at Love & Salt in Manhattan Beach. So good! p. 13
Reformation’s adorable Amelie dress. p. 38
Lobster Tom Kha at Hutchinson Cocktails and Grill on North La Cienega Boulevard. p. 24
Attending live studio tapings of our favorite TV shows in Burbank. p. 81
Canoodling over cocktails at The Tower Bar in the Sunset Tower Hotel. 323.848.6677 The Cubano at minichain Coffee Commissary, now open at 3425 Motor Ave. coffeecommissary.com Is-it-summer-yet bikinis at Lencería’s new Melrose Avenue location. 310.601.7963
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,
And the costumes from The Budapest Hotel at FIDM. p. 14
Beachy waves from the Blow & Style menu at Sassoon Salon in Beverly Hills. 310.274.8791
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WHERE 30 THINGS WE LOVE / los
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