LOS ANGELES
where GUESTBOOK
LOS ANGELES
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WELCOME TO LOS ANGELES
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Los Angeles’ Best-Kept Secret
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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8315 West 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90048
323-424-4807 pyrrha.com
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L.A. ESSENCE 28 IN AN L.A. INSTANT SHADOWS AND LIGHT In his bold, color-blocked images, photographer George Byrne captures the extraordinary within the ordinary of everyday L.A.
36 ISN'T IT GRAND GRAND CENTRAL MARKET L.A.’s historic food hall is a who’s who of local culinary talent and an evolving cultural hub. BY REBECCA PARDESS
40 IMPORTED FROM DOWNTOWN
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44 BEACH BOUND KELLY WEARSTLER The reigning queen of California interior design opens her beachfront Malibu home.
54 RIDING THE WAVE ABIGAIL SPENCER The L.A.-based Rectify star takes on new roles and big surf. BY KATHERINE TULICH
BY JOSEPH LEMOYNE
56 DRESSING THE PART 50 IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK THE PALM’S NEW ACT The curtains have closed on the Palm in West Hollywood, but the restaurant chain and its famous caricatures are beginning a new act in Beverly Hills.
TOP COSTUME DESIGNERS In Mad Men, Scandal and other hit shows, characters’ clothes play a starring role. Meet the costume designers who create the looks. BY KATHERINE TULICH
62 GOING WILD
MADE-IN-L.A. VODKA Raise a glass to downtown’s Arts District, home to a new, awardwinning brand of artisanal vodka.
FORAGING TAKES ROOT L.A. chefs are taking “local” to the extreme, incorporating ingredients foraged in the wild into their world-class cuisine.
BY ROGER GRODY
BY ROGER GRODY
BY JAMES BARTLETT
COVER: GEORGE BYRNE. OPENING SPREAD: IDRIS ERBA. THIS PAGE, FROM LEFT: COURTESY LOFT & BEAR; COURTESY KELLY WEARSTLER; JON HAMM AS DON DRAPER, CARIN BAER/AMC
CONTENTS
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L.A. ESSENTIALS 12 FIRST LOOK
MUST-SEE SPOTS Get glimpses of the city-defining destinations that captivate locals and visitors alike.
68 NEIGHBORHOODS
CITY GUIDES Los Angeles County comprises many cities and communities, from Santa Monica to the San Gabriel Valley to Malibu to the South Bay.
77 SPENDING TIME SHOPPING 78 LOOK BOOK See what’s in store at some of the area’s finest retailers. 84 RETAIL DETAILS Here’s a look at the region’s major shopping destinations and a selection of stores, boutiques and galleries.
99 CHOW TIME DINING Hungry? Check out our guide to the best restaurants in the county.
113 PLAY TIME ATTRACTIONS Get out! The best things to do and see in L.A.: studio tours, theme parks, the arts, sports, nightlife and more.
»EXPLORE L.A. WITH THE WHERE TRAVELER CITY GUIDE APP
FROM LEFT: ABIGAIL SPENCER, EMMAN MONTALVAN; DISH BY C.J. JACOBSON, RYAN TANAKA; GRAND CENTRAL MARKET, JAKOB LAYMAN
CONTENTS
8 W H E R E G U E S T B O O K
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OSKA 9693 Wilshire Boulevard Beverly Hills beverlyhills.oska.com 13 Douglas Alley Pasadena pasadena.oska.com 153 Throckmorton Avenue Mill Valley millvalley.oska.com 310 Center Street Healdsburg healdsburg.oska.com 2130 2130 Fillmore Street San Francisco www.2130-sf.com
where GUESTBOOK
LOS ANGELES ON THE WEB: WHERELA.COM
PUBLISHER Jeff Levy EDITOR Suzanne Ennis ART DIRECTOR Carol Wakano MARKETING DIRECTOR
Audrey Nimura
CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER Heidi Schwindt CONTRIBUTING PRODUCTION ARTIST Diana Gonzalez ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Gillian Glover
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
James Bartlett, Roger Grody, Joseph LeMoyne, Katie McCarthy, Rebecca Pardess, Katherine Tulich CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dale Berman, Angela DeCenzo, Idris Erba, Benjamin Ginsberg, Sarah Hadley, Matt Hartman, Edwin Santiago, Ashok Sinha, Lisa Romerein, Ian White SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jessica Levin Poff ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Kerry Brewer, Heather Heintz, Julie Hoffman, Joanna McLean Stickel, Heather Price SENIOR CIRCULATION AND SPECIAL EVENTS MANAGER Beth PRODUCTION MANAGER Dawn Kiko Cheng WEB EDITOR Christina Xenos
Moline
ADMINISTRATION
Lisa Hillebrecht, Amina Karwa, Leanne Killian, Stephanie Reid VICE PRESIDENT OF NATIONAL SALES WEST COAST NATIONAL SALES
Rick Mollineaux 202.463.4550
Tiffany Reinhold 714.813.6600
MVP CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER HONORARY PRESIDENT
Haines Wilkerson Ted Levy
3679 MOTOR AVE., SUITE 300 LOS ANGELES, CA 90034 PHONE: 310.280.2880 FAX: 310.280.2890 EMAIL ADVERTISING Jeff.Levy@SoCalMedia.com EDITORIAL Suzanne.Ennis@SoCalMedia.com ART Art@SoCalMedia.com PRODUCTION Ads@SoCalMedia.com CIRCULATION Beth.Moline@SoCalMedia.com Where GuestBook® publishes editions for the following U.S. cities and regions: Arizona, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Colorado, Dallas, Florida Gold Coast (Fort Lauderdale & Palm Beach), Fort Worth, Hawai‘i Island (the Big Island), Houston, Jacksonville/St. Augustine/Amelia Island, Kansas City, Kaua‘i, Los Angeles, Maui, Miami, Nashville, New Orleans, New York, Northern Arizona, O‘ahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Reno/Lake Tahoe, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle/The Eastside/Tacoma, Southwest Florida (Naples), Tampa Bay, Tucson, Virginia, Washington D.C. Copyright© 2015 by Southern California Media Group. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, in whole or in part, without the express prior written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility to any party for the content of any advertisement in this publication, including any errors and omissions therein. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement.
Beverly Hills / Chicago / Edina / Healdsburg / Lake Forest / Mill Valley / New York / Pasadena / Seattle / Calgary / London / Paris / Munich / Stockholm / www.oska.com
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CONTRIBUTORS s s
ROGER GRODY
• Imported From Downtown, page 40, and Going Wild, page 62 Pasadena-based Roger Grody writes for Westways, Unique Homes and GuestBook’s sister magazines, Where and Performances. The former city planner and adventurous gourmand likes to connect food with its context, whether at a locals-only bistro in Paris’ 6th arrondissement, or in downtown Los Angeles, where you might find him at an off-the-radar sushi bar or hunting down a taco truck. As passionate about design as he is about food, Grody also documents L.A.’s architecture on our pages, as well as for publications including Hemispheres and Fodor’s travel guides.
DALE BERMAN
ss REBECCA PARDESS • Isn't It Grand, page 36 Rebecca Pardess is a Los Angeles native who’s called Silver Lake home for the past five years. As a full-time digital content producer at FX Networks and a freelance writer for KCET, Time Out and Where, among others, she learns something new about her city every day. When she’s not working, she can be found dancing at one of L.A.’s many concert venues, dining on Thai food or walking her pug around the Rowena Reservoir.
GEORGE BYRNE
• In An L.A. Instant, page 28 Photographer/songwriter George Byrne exhibits his work around the world, with recent shows at the Standard, Hollywood and Hemingway and Pickett in Silver Lake. He was born into a creative family (sister is actress Rose) and cites fellow Australian expat Jeffrey Smart and David Hockney as artistic influences.
s s
GRODY, VLADIMIR PERLOVICH; BYRNE, ALEX ELENA; PARDESS, KENTON DREW JOHNSON
s s
• Photos in Going Wild, page 62, and elsewhere While studying photography at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, Berman discovered a talent for making subjects feel at ease in front of the lens. Today, celebrity portraits are among his editorial assignments. Berman's work has appeared in People and the Los Angeles Times Magazine.
KATHERINE TULICH
• Riding the Wave, page 54, and Dressing the Part, page 56 Katherine Tulich reports on all things Hollywood for Australian radio and television. She has contributed to the Los Angeles Times, Entertainment Weekly and Variety and filled in for Roger Ebert on At the Movies. As a member of the Hollywood Foreign Press, she votes yearly on the prestigious Golden Globe Awards.
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firstlook
FROM ICONIC BEACHES TO WORLD-CLASS ARTS VENUES TO CUTTING-EDGE BOUTIQUES, LOS ANGELES HAS IT ALL. WE CHERRY-PICK THE TOP ATTRACTIONS FROM THE COUNTY’S DIVERSE BOUNTY.
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The Beaches
Los Angeles’ celebrated coastline stretches 72 miles from the rugged Malibu/ Ventura County border down to Long Beach, with 25 miles of beautiful county beaches along the way. Everywhere sand meets surf, you’ll find volleyball players, windsurfers, stand-up paddleboarders, fishermen, swimmers and beachcombers honing their crafts. And the delights don’t stop there. Just off the sand, you can hop on a bike path in Venice Beach, also home to the world-famous boardwalk, and cruise to Santa Monica State Beach. There, a historic attraction-packed pier (best taken in atop the iconic Ferris wheel at night), and the Annenberg Community Beach House beyond it, offer hours of family-friendly entertainment.
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Griffith Observatory
For a bona fide star encounter, ascend Mount Hollywood to the Griffith Observatory, which commands expansive views of the L.A. Basin on up to the celestial sphere. Visitors can tour the grounds, go on an astronomical adventure at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium Theater and search the sky through a telescope at a public “star party,” held monthly. The iconic dometopped observatory is the main draw of the 4,210-acre Griffith Park, also home to the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, a merry-go-round, the Autry National Center of the American West, Travel Town, pony rides, the Greek Theatre and miles of popular hiking trails. 2800 E. Observatory Road,
Universal Studios Hollywood & Universal CityWalk
Spot a celebrity on the back lot of a movie studio, go indoor skydiving in a vertical wind tunnel and ride a mechanical bull during your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood and neighboring Universal CityWalk, which are among L.A.’s most popular entertainment destinations. The theme park’s tour through the world’s largest working movie studio guides you through recognizable sets such as Desperate Housewives’ Wisteria Lane and climaxes with King Kong 360 3-D, created by film director Peter Jackson. High-tech attractions include the new Despicable Me Minion Mayhem 3-D motion simulator ride and Jurassic Park—the Ride, featuring a heart-racing face-to-face with a T. rex. At admission-free Universal CityWalk, enjoy shopping and dining, a cinema and several nightlife destinations, including Saddle Ranch Chop House (home to the aforementioned bull) and Jillian’s Hi Life Lanes. Universal Studios Hollywood, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.3801, universalstudioshollywood.com; Universal CityWalk, 818.622.4455, citywalkhollywood.com
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PREVIOUS SPREAD: BENJAMIN GINSBERG. THIS PAGE: EDWIN SANTIAGO
L.A., 213.473.0800, griffithobs.org
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A SHOPPING PARADISE ON RODEO DRIVE
™
audemars piguet • agent provocateur • breguet • brunello cucinelli • buccellati ch carolina herrera • david orgell • etro • galerie michael • jimmy choo • lalique lanvin • lladro • persol eyewear • peter marco • philipp plein porsche design • richard mille • serapian • stefano ricci • stephen webster tiffany & co. • 208 rodeo • urasawa • versace • vertu • vilebrequin • westime
two hours free valet parking from 10 am to 6 pm The corner of Rodeo Drive & Wilshire Boulevard tworodeo.com
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tworodeodrive
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@tworodeodr
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managed by: leasing:
310.247.7040
jay luchs 310.407.6585 kazuko morgan 415.773.3546 carine mamann 310.595.2235 (lic. #01260345)
(lic. #01070005)
The stylized "R" and the iconic Via Rodeo/N. Rodeo Drive Street Sign are registered trademarks of Two Rodeo Drive
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(lic. #01734150)
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Getty Center & Getty Villa
The J. Paul Getty Museum’s two venues, the Getty Center and Getty Villa, are among the most prominent features of Los Angeles’ arts and culture landscape. Perched atop a hill in Brentwood and accessible via tram, the Getty Center is a modernist Richard Meier-designed complex featuring expanbuildings. Its collections feature European paintings, drawings, sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, decorative arts and European and American photographs, which are regularly complemented by exciting temporary exhibitions. The coastal Getty Villa is modeled after a first-century Roman country house and bedecked with classical architectural details and a prominent collection of Greek, Etruscan and Roman antiquities. Visitors also enjoy café dining and performances in the villa’s 450-seat outdoor classical theater. Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Drive, L.A., 310.440.7300; Getty Villa, 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades, 310.440.7300, getty.edu
FROM LEFT: COURTESY THE GETTY CENTER; EDWIN SANTIAGO
sive views, gardens and light-filled, travertine-clad
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OYSTER PERPETUAL COSMOGRAPH DAY TONA
rolex
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oyster perpetual, cosmograph and daytona are trademarks.
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The Grove & Farmers Market
The Grove outdoor shopping and entertainment center boasts movie theaters, quaint cobblestone streets, free concerts, a dancing fountain and an extensive selection of dining spots and boutiques that entice locals and visitors alike. Favorite shops include Barneys New York, Apple, American
Girl
Place
and
Topshop
Topman. Refuel at eateries including Umami Burger, Morels French Steakhouse and La Piazza Ristorante Italiano. Or hop on the electric trolley to adjacent historical Farmers Market, an L.A. institution packed with more than 100 stalls, boutiques and restaurants, including the not-to-miss Short Order for burgers and shakes. The Grove, 189 The Grove Drive, L.A., 323.900.8080, thegrovela.com; Farmers Market, 6333 W. 3rd St., L.A.,
Ocean Front Walk
Venice’s famous Ocean Front Walk is a mile-and-a-half-long concrete boardwalk along Venice Beach from Rose Avenue to the Venice Pier. Prime people-watching territory, it’s packed with street performers, greased bodybuilders fresh from Muscle Beach, souvenir hawkers, inline skaters and tourists gawking at the scene. Eateries and other businesses line the path, and basketball and handball courts host spirited games just off the sand. Not in the market for a new piercing or primed for a pickup game? Steps away, one of L.A.’s prettiest stretches of beach features volleyball nets, a bike path and wide swaths of sand offering more conventional delights.
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FROM TOP: DALE BERMAN; ANGELA DECENZO. OPPOSITE: LISA ROMEREIN
323.933.9211, farmersmarketla.com
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The Huntington
A new education and visitor center (opening in phases throughout the year) welcomes guests to San Marino’s Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens, which also features more than a dozen themed gardens, 15,000 plant varieties and one of the world’s most extensive collections of cacti across its 120 landscaped acres. The on-site art collection is equally impressive, housed mainly in the Beaux-Arts-style Huntington Art Gallery (former residence of the center’s founders, railroad magnate Henry E. Huntington and his wife, Arabella) and the Virginia Steele Scott Galleries of American Art. And bookworms, rejoice! The Huntington Library is home to more than 7 million manuscripts, rare books, photographs, historical prints and other works, including one of eleven surviving copies of Gutenberg’s Bible printed on vellum and a first-folio edition of William Shakespeare’s collected plays, published in 1623. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, 626.405.2100, huntington.org
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Walt Disney Concert Hall
Downtown’s Frank Gehry-designed Walt Disney Concert Hall, which debuted in 2003, makes a vivid sensory impact even before you’ve stepped inside. The stainless-steel-clad, soaring curvilinear building strikes a dazzling pose against the city’s blue skies and adds a contemporary element to the Music Center complex, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year and also includes the Ahmanson Theatre, the Mark Taper Forum and the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Of course, music is the hall’s raison d’être, and, ally sophisticated complement to the iconic exterior as well as to the talents of the resident orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and its vibrant conductor, Gustavo Dudamel. 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 323.850.2000, laphil.com
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EDWIN SANTIAGO
accordingly, its hardwood-paneled main auditorium is an acoustic-
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Altivo_G
7221 Melrose Ave. www.altivo.com info@altivo.com
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Los Angeles County Museum of Art
One of the West Coast’s foremost visual arts museums, LACMA houses 120,000 works, from Edoperiod paintings in the Pavilion for Japanese Art to a sculpture by Richard Serra in the 60,000-square-foot Broad Contemporary Art Museum. In 2010, the Renzo Piano-designed Lynda and Stewart Resnick Exhibition Pavilion was added to the 20-acre campus to host special exhibitions and showcase more of LACMA’s permanent collection. After you’ve perused the galleries, catch a matinee of a classic Hollywood film in the Bing Theater, or head outdoors to visit Chris Burden’s installation Urban Light and Levitated Mass by Michael Heizer, which consists of a 340-ton granite megalith perched atop a passable “slot” built on the Resnick North Lawn. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6000, lacma.org
Third Street Promenade & Santa Monica Place
The pedestrian-only Third Street Promenade comprises three city blocks packed with opportunities aplenty to lighten your wallet. Street performers and vendors ply their trades while visitors and locals filter in and out of bars, restaurants, theWednesday and Saturday mornings, the city’s famous farmers market intersects the promenade at Arizona Avenue. Anchoring the promenade at Broadway is Santa Monica Place, an openair shopping center that boasts Bloomingdale’s, Barneys New York, Nordstrom, dozens of upscale boutiques and a rooftop Dining Deck. Third Street Promenade, 3rd Street from Broadway to Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, 310.393.8355, downtownsm.com; Santa Monica Place, 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, 310.260.8333, santamonicaplace.com
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FROM TOP: SARAH HADLEY; DALE BERMAN
aters and trendy stores such as Anthropologie and Zara. On
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Rodeo Drive
The world’s top luxury brands, elegantly dressed shoppers and camera-wielding sightseers converge on a legendary three-block stretch of Beverly Hills’ Rodeo Drive. Saint Laurent, Cartier and Hermès are just a few of the esteemed names that call the celebrated street home. Stroll up the cobblestoned Via Rodeo to visit Versace, Breguet and Tiffany & Co. in the European-inspired Two Rodeo shopping complex. But sculpture Torso, the centerpiece of the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style. Recent inductees include Burberry, whose new Rodeo Drive flagship opened late last year. Rodeo Drive between Wilshire and Santa Monica boulevards, Beverly Hills, 323.769.3600, rodeodrive-bh.com
DALE BERMAN
first, pause at the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Dayton Way to admire the 14-foot-tall Robert Graham
2 4 W H E R E G U E S T B O O K
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IN AN L.A. INSTANT TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY GEORGE BYRNE
This series began when I moved to L.A., bought my first iPhone and started an Instagram gallery (@george_byrne). I was very inspired by the landscape, but the limitations of the digital camera and Instagram format led me to shoot in a specific way. The immediate feedback that social media provides was also an important force in the evolution of the work. I found the whole thing quite thrilling—an addictive, postmodern collaborative process. Technically, I see this format as an exercise in reduction. Less is often more, but too little is also a miss. I find myself relishing this challenge to the point that it has completely changed my broader creative process. The resulting images are both a love letter to L.A. and a question: How do I see my own place in this city I now call home?
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11 GOWER ST./ 2013-14 THE SKY, THE SPACE, THE FREEDOM I FEEL IN LOS ANGELES IS REAL AND UNMATCHED. IT’S A PLACE I FEEL AT COMPLETE EASE TO BE WHOEVER I WANT AND DO WHATEVER I WANT. IT’S DAUNTING AND DYNAMIC IN EQUAL PARTS.
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SILVERLAKE DUSK/2013-14
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BLUE & GOLD STUDY #1/2013-14
BLUE ON BLUE/2013-14 MY PROCESS IS AN ELEMENTAL STUDY OF LINE, PLANES OF COLOR AND SPACIAL DIVISION, GROUNDED IN THE FASCINATING CULTURAL CONTENT OF L.A.’S BUILT ENVIRONMENT. THE CHALLENGE IS TO CREATE THE ULTIMATE VISUAL BITE WITH VERY BASIC EQUIPMENT. IT’S ALL WHAT YOU SEE AND HOW YOU SEE IT. PUT IT IN THE FRAME AND PRESS THE BUTTON.
HOLLYWOOD/2013-14
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UNDER THE 110/2013-14 L.A. IS A PLACE GOING THROUGH ENDLESS REJUVENATION AND RENOVATION. NEW THINGS POP UP, AND OLD THINGS CRUMBLE, BACK-TOBACK, IN A SEEMINGLY ENDLESS CYCLE.
3 2 W H E R E G U E S T B O O K
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BLACKBIRD (HECTOR PONCE’S ICONIC BEATLES MURAL)/2013-14
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PINK, GREEN AND BLUE #1 (THE PAUL SMITH BUILDING)/2013-14
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99¢ STORE/2013-14
#10/2013-14 I THINK THAT THE WORK REFLECTS MY BEING A CURIOUS FOREIGNER. I FIND L.A. SO BEAUTIFUL AND IMPRESSIVE. I LOVE THE UNPRETENTIOUS ATTITUDE OF THE FADED MID-’80S ARCHITECTURE. I LOVE THE CARS, THE IMMENSE FREEWAYS, THE BUZZ, THE SMELL OF THE DESERT.
WHITE RAILING/2013-14
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isn’t it
GRAND AFTER NEARLY A CENTURY, DOWNTOWN’S GRAND CENTRAL MARKET MAKES ITS MARK AS L.A.’S INTERSECTION OF CUISINE AND CULTURE.
JAKOB LAYMAN
BY REBECCA PARDESS
IN THE EARLY 1900S, downtown Los Angeles resembled a turn-of-thecentury film set. Gas lamps lit the way for Model Ts and pedestrians amid the clang and clamor of cable cars. The city’s wealthiest families lived and did business in ornate, Victorian buildings topped with domes and spires. It’s all quite hard to imagine when gazing up at today’s monolithic skyline. But while glimmering skyscrapers represent L.A.’s status as one of the nation’s biggest cities, a few relics stand astutely in their shadows. One may be more relevant and dynamic than ever: Grand Central Market. The vibrant, indoor-outdoor food hall opened its doors in 1917 and hasn’t shuttered since. Positioned on the first floor of the 1896-built Homer Laughlin Building, a marketplace of fishmongers, butchers, bakers and florists supplied the city during its heyday, in the exact space that now houses a counter called Eggslut, which offers, among other things, a coddled egg in a mason jar for $9. In its almost 100 years, Grand Central Market has remained still, yet not stagnant, among the city’s aggressive phases of development, almost lending itself as a model of downtown’s fluctuating cultural landscape. What began as a food village for the well-to-do families of
Bunker Hill morphed into a workingclass grocery when post-World War II suburbanization saw the upper-class community, and its most-supported businesses, head to the hills. The wellkept Victorian homes of Bunker Hill became a housing hub for low-income families. The ornate buildings were flattened into bleak parking lots. But even with these drastic economic and social changes, the community needed fresh produce. Decades later, in 1984, a developer named Ira Yellin invested in Grand Central Market, citing an interest in the historical preservation and revitalization of downtown. This spurred the market’s 30-year evolution into what visitors can experience today—a pulsating food arcade gathering Angelenos of all cultures and socioeconomic classes under a single roof. Entering the market for the first time can be exciting and perhaps overwhelming. The smell of pupusas cooking on griddles, kebabs sizzling and pig snouts braising fills the air, while mariachi music flows from speakers. With hours from 8 am to 6 pm Sunday through Wednesday, and extended until 9 pm Thursday through Saturday, the market bustles at all business hours. Venture over during the lunch rush and a line at every counter is guaranteed,
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while a seat at a table is not. The place fills up fast. What to choose? A single visit to the market could never provide a complete scope of its offerings. The culinary choices are unmatched anywhere else in the city. Neither a Sbarro nor a Panda Express can be found in this food court but, rather, family-owned eateries serving traditional ethnic cuisines, mingling with new-age bistros offering the latest and greatest in gastronomy. Depending on your budget, hunger level and taste for adventure, there is something to satisfy every craving. A recommended plan of attack for 21-and-over visitors: Grab a draft beer from one of the handful of vendors who offer it, and take a lap or two through the aisles before landing. Peppered throughout the market, alongside new favorites such as the Oyster Gourmet, McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream and Wexler’s Deli, are the legacy vendors who’ve served their authentic and affordable cuisines since the floors were covered in sawdust. It’s easy to discern between the veterans and newcomers by the style of their signage and the number of dents covering their stainlesssteel counters. Sarita’s Pupuseria has been cooking and stuffing its fat, crispy corn tortillas for the past 16 years. At less than $5 for a pupusa bigger than a human face, along with a scoop of pickled cabbage salad, it offers a deal of a meal and a mouthful of savory comfort with every bite. Walk a few feet over and find Kabab & More, a Persian kitchen offering whole lamb shanks, kebabs and various stews in the vicinity of $10, all served with rice, pita bread and a “sweetie” or “honey” if you’re lucky. If it’s tacos you’re craving, you’ve struck gold. Try any of the several Mexican vendors who have been serving
their spins on the SoCal favorite for years. Las Morelianas specializes in Michoacan-style carnitas, while Ana Maria’s and Tacos Tumbras a Tomas turn out no-nonsense tacos, burritos and tortas. One of the longest-operating stalls in the market, Roast to Go, has been serving the same Mexican street food since 1952. Roast to Go’s owner, who prefers to go by the single name of “Sunny,” has overseen the stall for the last 11 years, only the second proprietor since its inception 62 years ago. “We have the best tacos and burritos because of the variety,” Sunny says. “It’s the same menu and same employees since the beginning.” Beef tongue, brains, goat, braised pig snout and blood sausage are among the many proteins available to fill your taco or burrito. If heat isn’t your preference, be sure to let them know, as these antojitos come standard with a kicking tomatillo salsa. Regulars flock to these counters for cheap, filling eats. Martin Olekszyk, a business analyst who’s lived across the street for three years, heads to the market three to four times a week. “My favorite place from the classic side is China Cafe. It’s Chinese food for Mexican tastes; they give limes with their chow mein! The counter is always packed with people drinking beer and eating,” he says. Since moving to the neighborhood right in the midst of the revitalization, Olekszyk has witnessed its effects. “There are lots more people around the area; it is very lively. From the working-class Mexicans doing their shopping on Broadway to hipsters, it’s an interesting mix. You can tell there are a lot of people who drove out from Greater L.A. to check out Grand Central Market since they heard about it through social media. Now it’s not just for us locals or workers in the area like it used to be.”
PREVIOUS SPREAD, FAR LEFT: JAKOB LAYMAN. THIS PAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT: JAKOB LAYMAN; AMPARO RIOS
What to choose? A single visit to the market could never provide a complete scope of its offerings. The culinary choices are unmatched anywhere else in the city.
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THIS PAGE: BOTH PHOTOS BY JAKOB LAYMAN. ALL PHOTOS COURTESY GRAND CENTRAL MARKET
With the market’s influx of new vendors that began in April 2013 has come a bit of controversy. While the higher-end offerings may yield a larger volume of clientele, they’ve also changed an institution that locals knew and loved for decades, and a number of businesses have closed up shop. “The sad part is these places close unceremoniously. One day they are there, next day they are gone,” Olekszyk says. Some locals speculate that the new, high-end vendors are pushing out the long-running businesses. However, some of the merchants welcome the change. Chiles Secos, another family-owned, legacy vendor in the market, supplies the neighborhood with staple Mexican spices, including its best-selling mole paste. Claudia Armendariz, granddaughter of the original owner, says Chiles Secos fully supports the other vendors in the market. “We frequently direct our customers to other stalls that best suit their needs,” she says. “I have made it a personal mission to try at least one thing from every stand. Recently, Olio Pizzeria used some of our mole for a limited-edition pizza.” “This is just my opinion based on what I have witnessed, and certainly shouldn’t be taken as the only truth,” says Armendariz. “The vendors that have gone out of business have gone out of business for the same reasons anyone goes out of business, not because they were forced out. Most of the newer vendors that have joined the community have actually filled stalls that were previously empty for quite some time, so it’s not like the market is kicking out old vendors to make room for new ones. I think that’s a misconception about the Grand Central Market.”
Roast to Go owner Sunny says she enjoys the higher volume of visitors. “More people, more money. It’s longer hours, but we enjoy the business.” One particular instance of scrutiny was the shuttering of long-standing butcher Economy Meats, which was eventually replaced with Belcampo Meat Co., a butcher and restaurant offering sustainably and humanely raised meats at considerably higher prices. “Economy Meats was gone a while before we got there,” says manager and head butcher Jered Standing. Regardless of Economy Meats’ reason for moving on, Belcampo’s entrance to Grand Central Market may be one of its most significant symbols of change. Today, customers can purchase organic, grassfed meat to prepare at home, or tuck into a delectable pulled-lamb-belly sandwich—when it’s available. “The reason we have the restaurant is to make sure to not have any waste. If I sold all my lamb, there’s no reason for me to make sandwiches. If my inventory were driven by a menu, it would create a lot of waste. It’s unsustainable,” says Standing. This outlook is a fresh addition to a place that for generations just sold the basics but now offers cutting-edge products: kombucha teas from Better Booch, fresh juices from Press Brothers Juicery and hop-infused, carbonated iced tea from G&B Coffee, to name a few. The dance between old and new, basic and progressive, is at the heart of the Grand Central Market experience. This isn’t the only revitalization it’s seen in nearly a century, and it won’t be the last. When folding into your chivo burrito or platter of oysters, take a moment to acknowledge that you’re dining in the belly of a nearly century-old, living, breathing beast.
PREVIOUS SPREAD, LEFT TO RIGHT: DINERS, SHOPPERS AND VENDORS RUB SHOULDERS ON A RECENT DAY AT GRAND CENTRAL MARKET IN DOWNTOWN L.A.; A PHOTOGRAPH OF THE MARKET TAKEN IN 1957 CAPTURES A SCENE MUCH LIKE TODAY’S. THIS SPREAD, FROM LEFT: GRAINS, BEANS, SPICES, MOLES AND MORE ON DISPLAY AT CHILES SECOS; HANDMADE PUPUSAS, HOT AND READY TO FILL AT SARITA’S PUPUSERIA; JERED STANDING, HEAD BUTCHER AND MANAGER AT GCM’S BELCAMPO MEAT CO.; EGGSLUT’S CULT-FAVORITE CODDLED EGG ON TOP OF A SMOOTH POTATO PUREE, POACHED IN A GLASS JAR AND SERVED WITH A DEMI BAGUETTE
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DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN’S ARTS DISTRICT INSPIRES CREATORS OF ALL TYPES, INCLUDING AN UP-AND-COMING DISTILLER OF FINE VODKA. BY ROGER GRODY
NOT ONLY ARE SOME OF THE most innovative artists, chefs and fashion designers gravitating to downtown Los Angeles, but the city center is also reprising its rich history as a place where exciting, world-class goods are manufactured. Honoring that legacy is an artisanal vodka called Loft & Bear, a product proudly crafted in the heart of L.A. ¶ Loft & Bear is the first product of YSA (Young State America) Distilling Co., a small-batch artisanal distillery founded in 2013 by young entrepreneur Paul Ryan Elliott. After graduating with a degree in economics from the University of North Carolina, Elliott was torn between pursuing an MBA and distilling vodka, his spirit of choice. “I spent $500 to enroll in a GMAT prep course and used another $500 to buy my first still,” Elliott says, explaining his allocation of sparse resources at the time. ¶ He never did take the admission exam—and has no regrets about his impetuous decision to become a craft distiller.
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YSA DISTILLING CO.’S STILL; A LOFT & BEAR VODKA MARTINI THIS PAGE, FROM TOP: MASTER DISTILLER PAUL RYAN ELLIOTT; THE BEAR’S KNEES, WITH MUSTARDINFUSED LOFT & BEAR VODKA, LEMON JUICE AND ORANGEBLOSSOM-HONEY SYRUP OPPOSITE: A LEFT COAST GREYHOUND WTH LOFT & BEAR VODKA, GRAPEFRUIT JUICE, SLICED JALAPEÑO, MINT LEAVES AND AGAVE SYRUP
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paired with pretzels!” says Steuck, who has a penchant for incorporating savory ingredients into cocktails. “What makes Loft & Bear distinct from other brands is the depth and character of flavor. ... Many vodkas, in my opinion, are harsh and lack flavor,” says the mixologist. That distinction is one reason, according to Steuck, that Loft & Bear works particularly well in traditionally gin-based cocktails such as the Bee’s Knees, Negroni or Greyhound. His Left Coast Greyhound is made with Loft & Bear, grapefruit juice, sliced jalapeño, mint leaves and either simple or agave syrup. “Most vodkas are simply vehicles to carry other flavors, which is what makes Loft & Bear different,” says Steuck, who notes that the market is saturated with vodkas infused with everything from açaí berries to cilantro. “Loft & Bear is an amazing product with a flavor profile that holds up neat or on the rocks.” Elliott has the kind of engaging personality that food and beverage directors and liquor buyers generally appreciate, but competition is fierce in the cutthroat alcoholic-beverage industry. One reason Elliott chose to locate in L.A., aside from its renowned bar scene, is that the city is currently home to only one other distillery, Arts District neighbor Greenbar Craft Distillery, maker of TRU Organic Vodka and Slow Hand White Whiskey. “L.A. is a hub for creative types, and people tend to view it as what’s trendy and hot,” says Elliott, who insists that only New York’s cocktail culture can compete with what’s happening in the City of Angels, especially with the recent emergence of downtown. Loft & Bear is elegantly packaged in a clear, heavy glass bottle—shorter and stouter than most mainstream vodkas—with a classic diagonal black ribbon bearing white, gray and gold lettering, sealed with a woodcapped cork stopper. “I’m a less-is-more kind of guy,” explains the YSA owner, expressing a desire to keep it clean and let the product speak for itself. “Right now, I still sign every bottle. But at some point that’s going to have to stop.” The distillery’s current capacity is 100 cases of Loft & Bear per month, with a suggested retail price of about $40 per bottle. The spirit world has definitely noticed Loft & Bear, which medaled at the New York International Spirits Competition, San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Los Angeles International Spirits Competition its first year out of the box. “Awards give you credibility and say something about the product’s quality,” says Elliott, who reports that Loft & Bear has won eight awards, medaling in every competition it was entered in.
ALL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY LOFT & BEAR
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Elliott drew up a business plan and entered into negotiations with a private investor—a technology industry entrepreneur and vodka enthusiast who ultimately funded the project. The resulting boutique distillery is housed in a commercial loft in the burgeoning Arts District, in a former industrial building whose ground floor is occupied by the Factory Kitchen, a hot Italian restaurant drawing foodies from throughout the city. Although Elliott’s rapidly outgrowing it, the modest 1,500-square-foot space is where Loft & Bear is distilled, packaged and marketed. With a flat-screen TV, polished wood foosball table and some comfy furniture on which to crash, the loft resembles a cool bachelor pad, one with a 30-liter copper-pot column still and hundreds of pounds of grain stacked on the floor. Massive concrete columns and exposed ducts give the space the kind of character that would suit an art studio or high-tech startup. Elliott explains that while a variety of starches (e.g., wheat, rye, corn, potato) can be used in the production of vodka, he prefers soft winter wheat from Northern California and Michigan. Soft winter wheat, used for the production of baking flour, is lower in proteins and gives Loft & Bear a more savory flavor profile, according to the young distiller. Wheat is also the choice of such respected mass-production labels as Grey Goose and Absolut, as well as Ketel One, the brand Elliott used to drink before debuting Loft & Bear. Pure California mountain spring water is used in the labor-intensive process, which includes the vodka being distilled four times and filtered once. Elliott describes his vodka as offering a nose of subtle floral notes and a creamy, buttery finish with a hint of anise. When the owner’s not drinking it straight up with a twist of lime, he’ll opt for an old-fashioned vodka gimlet. Elliott says of his Loft & Bear, “I created my product so you could drink it straight, with none of the medicinal tastes sometimes experienced with other vodkas.” He lauds its versatility for cocktails, something he has pursued with mixologist and brand ambassador Karl Steuck (formerly of L’Ermitage Beverly Hills and Hatfield’s) but insists Loft & Bear is ideal for people who enjoy sipping their vodka neat. One of Steuck’s signature Loft & Bear cocktails is the Bear’s Knees, a twist on a Bee’s Knees, the Prohibitionera drink that usually calls for gin as a base. This version is composed of mustard-infused Loft & Bear, freshsqueezed lemon juice and orange-blossom-honey syrup. “It’s a really fun play, and it’s pretty dangerous when
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But since racking up medals doesn’t ensure entry into a competitive spirits market flooded with small-batch bourbons, Japanese whiskeys and artisanal tequila, Elliott has ambitions to produce other spirits under the YSA umbrella, too. “If I could fit bourbon barrels into this loft, I’d be distilling whiskey right now,” he says. Among the local drinking establishments carrying Loft & Bear are celebrity-favored Crustacean in Beverly Hills, West Hollywood’s Harlowe and downtown’s perennially hot Bäco Mercat, as well as K&L Wine Merchants in Hollywood. “Getting people interested in the product isn’t difficult, but not having the same influence as established brands and distributors can be frustrating,” says Elliott. Nonetheless, Loft & Bear will soon be available in New York, Miami and Washington, D.C., and international interest has already been expressed from South Korea to the Caribbean. The Line Hotel—the hip Koreatown property home to several concepts from revolutionary food truck operator and celebrity chef Roy Choi—also looks forward to carrying Loft & Bear. Pot Lobby Bar at the Line stocks about eight vodkas, and a local vodka is viewed as a particularly good fit for the boutique hotel. “We love supporting products handcrafted in L.A. and were very impressed with the distiller’s passion,” says bar manager Chris Shin, who adds, “The product speaks for itself.” Through its “Distill.Drink.Donate” program, 5 percent of all profits from YSA goes directly to organizations supporting distressed families, veterans’ affairs and human services. “We wanted to be socially aware from the start, when you can build that cost into the business,” says Elliott, who suggests that young consumers expect that kind of activism. Currently, Loft & Bear is working with People Assisting the Homeless (PATH), a family of local agencies prioritizing affordable housing and supportive services. “It’s our responsibility to take care of people in the community,” says Elliott, who is conscious of the poverty and hunger just steps from his distillery. Although being a boutique label has its own cachet value, investors want to maximize their returns. Elliott insists there are precedents for maintaining quality even after production ramps up, and he names Tito’s Handmade Vodka as one of the best examples. Tito’s, an Austin, Texas-based craft label that has grown into a major brand, now produces nearly a million cases per year. Elliott also cites Northern California’s Hangar One as a comparable case study.
Elliott is already looking for a larger space for YSA’s vodka venture and the production of additional spirits. He would like to find 20,000 square feet and upgrade to a 1,300-liter still that would support an output of at least 2,000 cases per month: a twentyfold increase in production. The next location will also have something that’s not permitted in the current building: a tasting room. California-bashing has been a favorite pastime of politicians and lobbyists who insist the state is no longer friendly to entrepreneurs. But Elliott, who shares a neighborhood with a collection of other innovative startups, has not experienced an unreceptive environment. His only handicap is a lack of the kind of big marketing budget deployed by mainstream brands. Without it, Loft & Bear is an enterprise fueled entirely by passion and youthful energy. To the 29-year-old Elliott, who lacks the cynicism of a jaded CEO, it seems perfectly natural to print labels that read: Crafted in downtown Los Angeles.
“I’m a less-is-more kind of guy,” explains the YSA owner, expressing a desire to keep it clean and let the product speak for itself. “Right now, I still sign every bottle. But at some point that’s going to have to stop.”
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BEACH BOUND AT HER BEACH HOUSE IN MALIBU, MULTIFACETED DESIGNER KELLY WEARSTLER SURROUNDS HERSELF WITH RICH TEXTURES AND MODERN EXPRESSIONS. BY JOSEPH L E MOYNE
A FEW YEARS AGO, THE NEW YORKER CALLED KELLY WEARSTLER THE “PRESIDING GRANDE DAME OF West Coast interior design.” While that title may seem odd for the relatively young and glamorous designer, her prominence in the Los Angeles creative community is indisputable. At her family’s Malibu beach house, she applies a highly personal, intimate touch to her art. ¶ For much of her career, Wearstler’s signature style was Hollywood Regency, a flamboyant retro look she applied to private residences and hotel lobbies. But the much-in-demand designer has proven quite versatile, and her design at Beverly Hills’ Avalon Hotel, for instance, demonstrates a keen, playful appreciation for L.A.’s midcenturymodern heritage. Her Malibu beach house is yet another surprise for anybody foolish enough to stereotype Wearstler’s design sensibility. Modern yet warm, the home reflects a delicate finesse of sophistication and livability. ¶ Although she maintains that her design philosophy revolves around taking risks—“It’s the only way to grow,” she says—Wearstler has learned to be a patient listener when working with clients. “I simply take their vision and run it through my filter,” she explains, and adds, “I see my interiors as sculptures.” All pieces of art, rooms included, have a story to tell, she insists. “If you begin with a clear sense of what story you want to tell, the style of a space flows naturally out of that conversation.” 44
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For Wearstler, context is everything: “I look at the architecture, location, what is happening outside the window—the dialogue between the interior and exterior,” she explains. That was clearly true of her approach at the Malibu beach house she shares with hotelier husband Brad Korzen, two active sons and a couple of rescue dogs. The home features a light palette that suits an abundance of sunshine flooding its spaces from panoramic windows and skylights, and showcases the family’s most omnipresent and welcome neighbor: the Pacific Ocean. “The vibe is spirited and soulful,” she says of the home, where the family escapes to as many weekends as possible. She also appreciates the fact that, in Malibu, she can go almost anywhere in jeans and a T-shirt. “The community epitomizes both raw and refined, and the landscape is gorgeous,” she says of this coastal getaway, just a half-hour drive from the family’s primary residence in Beverly Hills. The home itself is modern with vintage California elements and features a grayed-silver-cedar facade with copper detailing that has acquired a distinctive patina. “For Malibu, I wanted the ocean to be the most prominent color in the space,” says Wearstler, who selected a neutral and raw color palette to complement and showcase the water. For a designer known for her audacious use of color, that decision represents considerable restraint, as well as a profound respect for the sea. “This space proves neutrals can be every bit as dramatic and iconic as bright hues,” she says, suggesting that the house celebrates the quiet glamour of nature: organic, effortless and refined. “Everything from the floor plan to the furniture draws the eye to the view.” Wearstler’s approach to the design process for this home didn’t deviate from what she typically employs in her professional practice, except that her husband and sons were, in effect, the clients. “I ran their personalities, loves and ideas through my filter,” she says, adding, “The result is a house that feels cohesive and welcoming while highlighting their distinctive voices.” But she was also intent on preserving a sense of femininity for herself. “The juxtaposition of masculine and feminine creates a sexy tension,” says the lone woman in the household. The home’s femininity, she says, is derived from nature: organic shapes, the fluid movement and rich texture of marble and stone. “I always say Mother Nature is the best designer.” Determined to create an open, freeflowing habitat for her family, Wearstler had the entire floor plan reconfigured before selecting any furnishings. Wearstler opted for materials—driftwood, vintage
OPENING SPREAD, RIGHT: KELLY WEARSTLER AND HER SONS RELAX IN THE MAIN LIVING SPACE. “THE HOME FEELS WARM, INVITING AND FILLED WITH LOVE,” SAYS ITS DESIGNER. THIS SPREAD: THE OPEN-PLAN LIVING AREA FEATURES A MIX OF VINTAGE AND CONTEMPORARY DESIGNS. FURNISHINGS, INCLUDING THESE LEATHER CHAISE LONGUES, KEEP A LOW PROFILE TO ALLOW UNIMPEDED VIEWS OF THE PACIFIC OCEAN. ABOVE: NEUTRAL HUES, ORGANIC SHAPES AND RICH TEXTURES THROUGHOUT THE HOME TAKE THEIR CUES FROM NATURE.
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leathers, sand and natural stones—that would capture a relaxed, found-on-the-beach vibe. “I chose tonal grays, blondes and neutral hues to highlight the ocean,” whose own colors and moods are constantly in flux, she says. Various colors of marble are found throughout the house, not just for accent but sheathing entire walls. For centuries, the luxurious stone has been a natural complement to the ocean and introduces the understated feminine qualities Wearstler appreciates. Wearstler identifies the open-concept kitchen and living area, with its panoramic windows, as her favorite part of the home. “I love that we can host dinner parties with friends, or cook while the boys play on the deck,” she says, as the layout makes it easy for either socializing or being together as a family. “The home feels warm, inviting and filled with love.” “When you walk in, the ocean is the only color in the room. It feels as though you are on a boat as the surf breaks under the house,” Wearstler says of the main living space that she furnished with a mix of vintage and contemporary designs. A cushy, streamlined sofa by Italian designer Tobia Scarpa suggests a relaxed sophistication, and the profile of the piece—most furniture in the home, for that matter—is low, in order to reduce interference with the awesome Pacific vistas. Behind that sofa sits a contemporary rosewood and walnut cabinet from Pennsylvania craftsman Jeffrey Greene that is really art doubling as furniture. Wearstler adores furnishings and accessories that cloud the distinction between aesthetics and functionality. Consistent with that philosophy is a pair of sculptural chaise longues clad in caramel-colored leather. She says that guests tend to gravitate toward these dramatically curvaceous chairs, whose positioning fully captures the alluring horizon. The living room is anchored by a formidable fireplace, a contemporary structure clad in shadowy marble whose deep, wavy striations mirror the ocean at dusk, and an abstract painting by Phil Wagner hangs on the opposite wall. A couple of big vintage chairs with a casual, inviting look are also present in the room. “I love to blur the line between old and new. It is important to respect history while cultivating a fresh voice that feels powerful and relevant,” she says. In its eclectic totality, the space is sleek and sexy but not so precious as to inhibit an active family from having fun. The cabinets in the adjoining kitchen are customcrafted from end-cut bleached Douglas fir, and the walls are finished in muted tones of marble. “I love a big kitchen,” says the health-conscious designer, reporting a
penchant for visiting the farmers market with her sons, who enjoy experimenting with smoothie recipes when they return. “It is a space we spend a lot of time in as a family or with friends, so it was important to feel open and comfortable.” The wide-open living area is particularly conducive to entertaining. “Guests can mingle, and traffic flows effortlessly,” says Wearstler, revealing that a lot of time is spent on the cantilevered deck witnessing Malibu’s incredible sunsets. “It gets chilly even in the summer, so I always keep my Kelly Wearstler baby alpaca throws [a popular item from her Melrose Avenue boutique] on hand for guests.” A central staircase constructed from bleached walnut is not just an architectural element but an artistic expression created by Wearstler to fuse form and function. Glistening brass railings—inspired by the ropes on a sailboat—add another dimension to a structure some might consider austere. “I wanted it to read as a large sculpture that connects two points of focus,” she says, and she provided additional drama in the staircase with a richly textured piece by artist Sheila Hicks, famous for her textile wall sculptures. “Because the staircase is so sculptural and angular, a raw tapestry piece adds a luxurious feminine foil.” Compelling art is found throughout the home, and Wearstler collects pieces from both prominent and lesserknown artists. “I look to contemporary artists with a found, crafted aesthetic,” she explains, adding, “I buy what moves me.” A gallery wall in the master bedroom, which includes works by artists Tofer Chin and Benjamin Butler, reflects her eclectic collection. “Inspiration is everywhere,” Wearstler says when asked what informs her work. “My boys are constantly unearthing new fodder for creativity, from their surf camp to art projects or watching old James Bond movies together as a family.” She says she carries a sketchbook and camera everywhere, and admits to a healthy addiction to Pinterest. Wearstler has also become a prominent collector of vintage books, maintaining a library of more than 2,000 titles. The designer cites late European architects Carlo Scarpa, Josef Hoffmann and Pierre Chareau among designers who have influenced her work. In fact, some deco-esque sconces designed by Chareau line hallways in the Malibu beach house. “All travel informs my eye and expands my tastes as an artist,” says Wearstler, who concedes a particular weakness for Paris’ legendary flea market, Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen.
WEARSTLER WITH HER SONS, DEAN KAUFMAN/TRUNK ARCHIVE. ALL OTHER IMAGES COURTESY KELLY WEARSTLER
“For Malibu, I wanted the ocean to be the most prominent color in the space,” says Wearstler, who selected a neutral and raw color palette to complement and showcase the water.
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She no longer limits herself to interiors and now affixes her name—a label that has become an influential brand—to home furnishings, fashion accessories and jewelry. The entire world of Wearstler can be discovered at her flagship boutique on a chic stretch of Melrose Avenue. The 2,800-square-foot, Wearstler-designed store is accented in elegant metallic and stone finishes, and starburst lighting fixtures cast a seductive glow over a space inhabited by unique, glamorous mannequins. The circle, a geometric form frequently integrated into the designer’s work, appears in skylights, in tables carved out of blocks of marble and in elegant gold cuffs. Always determined to convey a story as a designer, Wearstler explains: “The look of the store draws upon all my signature motifs—perforated metal, cerused wood, a love of minerals and stone.” She enjoys creating one-of-a-
kind pieces exclusive to the store, enhancing the concept of the flagship boutique as a laboratory for design. “It’s an ever-evolving, meticulously curated lifestyle story featuring all my favorite things.” “The different mediums fuel one another,” Wearstler adds, and she credits fashion and jewelry for being constant sources of inspiration and cross-pollination. “A piece of hardware on a drawer will inspire a bracelet, or vice versa.” Her collection of fashion accessories— clutches, jewelry, sunglasses, hand-painted silk scarves— is simply an extension of her creativity and signature aesthetic as an interior designer. “They each embody the same love of history, mixology and artisanal detailing I seek out in my interiors,” says Wearstler. And on any given weekend, that formidable creative energy is recharged at the beach in Malibu.
OPPOSITE: A CENTRAL STAIRCASE CONSTRUCTED FROM BLEACHED WALNUT FEATURES BRASS RAILINGS AND A WALL-HANGING TAPESTRY, BY ARTIST SHEILA HICKS, AT THE LANDING. THIS PAGE: REGARDING THE ART THROUGHOUT THE HOME, WEARSTLER SAYS, “I LOOK TO CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS WITH A FOUND, CRAFTED AESTHETIC.” SHE CITES TOFER CHIN AND BENJAMIN BUTLER AMONG THE ARTISTS REPRESENTED IN THE MASTER BEDROOM.
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IF THESE WALLS
COULD TALK THE PALM IN WEST HOLLYWOOD IS GONE, BUT ITS CARICATURES LIVE ON.
Spielberg, Yogi Bear, Fred Flintstone, Leonardo DiCaprio, Paris FRED ASTAIRE ONCE TAP-DANCED ON THE BAR AT THE Hilton, the cast of Mad Men, Roy Scheider riding a shark—were Palm restaurant in West Hollywood. Farrah Fawcett and husband chipped loose. There were caricatures of regular, non-famous Lee Majors (the Six Million Dollar Man) regularly drew dozens customers, too. “Everyone’s a celebrity here,” said Bozzi, adding of gawkers when they lunched in its booths. Cheryl Ladd was an that many of the caricatures were also signed by their subjects. unknown when television mogul Aaron Spelling spotted her havWhen the first unveiling party got going for family friend ing dinner there: Three days later she was announced as Fawcett’s Larry Kelly’s caricature back in 1975, it was a continuation replacement on Charlie’s Angels. All of them have something in of a tradition that started at the first Palm restaurant, which common with more than 2,000 others: Besides being customers opened in New York in 1926. That popular chophouse was on of the legendary entertainment industry hangout, they were all “newspaper row,” explains co-owner Wally Ganzi, immortalized in caricature on its walls. and was half a block from King Features—home But at the end of September last year, the walls STEVEN SPIELBERG AND to countless cartoonists. They were regulars from were covered in holes, and there was dust and ALICE COOPER WERE Day One and, noting the bare walls, wanted a rubble everywhere. The West Hollywood Palm AMONG THE STRANGE BEDFELLOWS WHO chance to show off their skills, preserve their carwas closed for good, and the caricatures, along PEERED AT DINERS FROM toon characters and, as Ganzi says, to “paint for with the quarter-inch-thick drywall to which THE WALLS OF THE PALM their supper.” The West Hollywood Palm “was a they were affixed, were coming down. They were IN WEST HOLLYWOOD New York joint that came out west,” says Bozzi, photographed for posterity, but their removal was great-grandson of Pio Bozzi, who founded the a tricky operation, and there were some casualrestaurant with John Ganzi, adding that their regular clientele ties. A new Palm was opening in Beverly Hills, and executive appreciated that “what happens in the Palm stays in the Palm.” vice president Bruce Bozzi Jr. agonized over which caricatures Bozzi says the Fawcett/Majors caricature is his favorite and would be coming to the new restaurant. Once he’d made up his confirms the legend that someone stuck a steak knife in the mind, he hit the phones to offer the remaining caricatures to the caricature of O.J. Simpson, so it was covered up with another subjects themselves. face—the only one ever changed. But Bozzi thinks that if walls The likenesses of dozens of movie, television, theater, sports, could talk, the West Hollywood Palm’s would have whispered of radio and political personalities from the last few decades—Al “marriages that didn’t work and marriages that worked, love that Pacino, John Wayne, John Travolta, Alice Cooper, Steven
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OPPOSITE: ROBERT ULRICH, COURTESY THE PALM
BY JAMES BARTLETT
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ONE BY ONE, THESE CARICATURES WERE CAREFULLY REMOVED. SOME WERE GIVEN INTACT TO THEIR SUBJECTS; A LUCKY FEW MADE THE MOVE TO THE NEW PALM RESTAURANT IN BEVERLY HILLS.
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But Bozzi thinks that if walls could talk, the West Hollywood Palm’s would have whispered of “marriages that didn’t work and marriages that worked, love that was lost, deals that were inked, movie stars that were made and had their first meetings.” was lost, deals that were inked, movie stars that were made and had their first meetings. They [were] really a time capsule,” he says, sighing. Every one of the Palm restaurants in the U.S. and Mexico, including the downtown Los Angeles location, has caricatures reflecting its unique area and its beloved customers. But the Palm in West Hollywood was the place where the glittery movers and shakers came to power-lunch and make deals—it was even mentioned at the funeral for director Sydney Pollack, says Bozzi. Generations of families dined there, he says, and he hopes they will all come to the new Palm at 267 N. Cañon Drive, too. On the eve of the opening in November 2014, the plastic wraps and upturned chairs showed that preparations were still underway, but already stretching panoramically across one wall was a colorful “map” mural of Los Angeles featuring its iconic buildings and scenery—from Santa Monica Pier to Hollywood and beyond. New caricatures were to be placed on this map (Bozzi anticipated around two per month) and a few from the former West Hollywood Palm framed and hung on one of the other walls. “As the map wall changes, the restaurant will change,” Bozzi says. Outside, architectural illustrator Zack Bird worked on the delicate gold leaf of
the Palm’s distinctive tree symbol on the front door. His family has drawn caricatures for the Palm restaurants since the mid-1990s—mother Bronwyn did the initial caricatures—and he recalls stories of past illustrators including William “Jolly Bill” Steinke, a thirsty patron at the first Palm, and Bill Lignante, a comic-book illustrator, Hanna-Barbera cartoonist and courtroom artist for ABC News, who did many of the caricatures at the West Hollywood Palm. Over the years, the caricatures have changed, too, and become more like portraits than exaggerated cartoons. “We add hairline, take away the double chin, clear up the crow’s feet. It makes everyone look great, and we’ve never had a complaint,” Bird explains—though at one restaurant opening, the staff did find a woman who’d had a couple of martinis standing on a table, touching up her caricature’s eye makeup. Bozzi muses that perhaps he will have a caricature of himself up on the wall in Beverly Hills. He’s on the wall in several other Palm locations, but, surprisingly, his image never graced the walls in West Hollywood. “Caricatures are a rivet of the Palm,” he says. “They’re a badge of honor and a tribute to our customers, but now the West Hollywood Palm has told its story, and it’s time for a new chapter.”
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Q&A
Riding the Wave With major new roles and critics’ accolades rolling in, there’s no stopping Los Angeles-based actress Abigail Spencer. BY KATHERINE TULICH
Tell us about your background.
I’m from Gulf Breeze, Florida: a small town on the border of Alabama—Florabama! My mom was a folk singer and a music teacher; my dad, Yancy Spencer III, owned a surf shop and was a professional surfer. My mom said I came out of the womb singing and dancing. ... I was lucky they nurtured my talent—dance classes, talent contests, local theater. My dad found what he loved at 15, so I grew up in a family where you find what you love, and you make a whole life of it.
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You got discovered on the talk show Live With Regis and Kathie Lee. How did that happen?
I was 17 and in New York in the audience, and Kathie Lee Gifford singled me out ... and asked what I was doing. I boldly told her I was a singer, dancer and actor. The casting director of All My Children happened to be watching and called me into her office the next day. It led to my first professional acting job as a series regular on the show for three years, playing a smalltown girl who comes to the city to shake things up.
County Line Beach, on the border of Malibu and Ventura, has the most meaning to me—that was my father’s favorite surfing spot before he passed away a few years ago. What is it like to be a working mom in this industry?
As an actress, you are your own product, and it’s all about yourself, so being a mother has been so fulfilling. It was when I had my son that my acting career really took off. I got the role in Mad Men, playing Sally Draper’s teacher Suzanne Farrell in season three, which just transformed my career.
When did you move to L.A.?
In 2002, I came to surf with my family who were visiting in San Clemente. I didn’t exactly move to L.A.; I just never left! Life happened. I got married, which, unfortunately, didn’t work out, but I have my wonderful 6-year-old son, Roman. I have a place in West Hollywood and a little office by the beach on the Venice/Santa Monica border. I love being near the water. It’s very important to me.
How many women stop you because you got to kiss Don Draper?
When people ask me that, I say: “Well, Don Draper got to kiss me, too, you know!” ... Acting opposite Jon Hamm in Mad Men was wonderful. He is nothing like Don Draper when you meet him—he is very centered and calm, and we had a very easy working relationship.
Are you still a good surfer?
Tell us about your new film, The Forger, with John Travolta.
Well, I have six surfboards and two wet suits and will be getting a stand-up paddleboard. For me, surfing is like riding a bike. ...
I play a DEA agent involved in taking down this drug lord in Boston, and John Travolta’s character is leading me to the bigger fish. ...
[John] is so generous with all the cast. We were doing a lot of night shoots, and one night he invited the cast into his trailer and he ordered this most delicious dinner from his favorite restaurant in Boston and served us all. So there we were, having a five-star meal in his trailer in the middle of the night. Rectify is going into its third season. What can we expect?
It’s about a man who has been on death row for 19 years and is released. ... I play his sister Amantha, who has been fighting for his freedom. People in the town still think he is guilty, so it’s been a tough transition. There are no easy answers, and I think that’s what keeps people so riveted. Tell us about some of your favorite L.A. places.
I love Cafe Gratitude and their sister restaurant in West Hollywood, Gracias Madre. They have really made vegan food friendly for people who don’t like vegan food. ... For dinner, I love Pace in Laurel Canyon. It’s a great ... farm-totable Italian restaurant. I am still a big fan of the Chateau Marmont, if you want to get that cozy, totally L.A. experience. It’s a real haven in the storm.
EMMAN MONTALVAN
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bigail Spencer has kissed Mad Men’s Don Draper and appeared in This Is Where I Leave You with Jane Fonda, Tina Fey and Jason Bateman, and she stars in one of television’s most critically acclaimed series, SundanceTV’s Rectify. But the 33-year-old is just getting started: This year will see her in a role alongside Colin Farrell and Vince Vaughn in HBO’s crime series True Detective, as well as in The Forger, with John Travolta. We met Spencer at one of her favorite restaurants, Cafe Gratitude on Larchmont Boulevard, to chat about leading men, surfing and her big break in Hollywood.
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DRESSING
THE CHARACTERS ON AMC’S HIT SERIES MAD MEN CAPTURE THE ZEITGEIST OF AN ERA IN PERIOD-APPROPRIATE LOOKS CREATED BY COSTUME DESIGNER JANIE BRYANT.
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ON TODAY’S HIT TV SHOWS, COSTUME DESIGNERS PLAY A STARRING ROLE.
When Carrie Bradshaw strutted down the streets of New York in Sex and the City, let’s face it: As much as we were hoping for a reunion with Mr. Big, we were just as riveted by the Manolo Blahnik heels she wore to negotiate the Big Apple’s tough sidewalks. We may have fallen in love with the friendship of Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda, but we were positively addicted to the fashion the girls were wearing every week. Sex and the City brought smallscreen fashion, and the show’s costume designer, Patricia Field,
BY KATHERINE TULICH
front and center of mainstream style as nameplate necklaces, flower corsages and sky-high heels became every girl’s musthave items. But these days, it’s not just splashy contemporary fashionista TV shows that are impacting runways and readyto-wear. Gritty police procedurals, political nail-biters, retro character dramas, sitcoms and teen mysteries—many of them filmed in trendsetting L.A.—are all influencing what we wear, and costume designers are now finding a level of fame almost equal to that of the shows’ stars.
FROM TOP: CELEBRATED COSTUME DESIGNERS JANIE BRYANT, MANDI LINE, LYN PAOLO, ANE CRABTREE AND SALVADOR PEREZ
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EACH COURTESY THE DESIGNER; COURTESY BAUBLEBAR X SALVADOR PEREZ. THIS PAGE: COURTESY THE LIMITED
“It feels like there is more focus on us now,” says Salvador Perez, costume designer for The Mindy Project, a sitcom starring comedian and writer Mindy Kaling that’s shot at Universal Studios in Los Angeles. “Social media has really changed the game. You couldn’t communicate with a costume designer before; now you can tweet them and get an answer. Films are made and come out a year later, but with TV, you are in their home every week, and they get to know intimately the characters and their closets.” When costume designer Mandi Line was asked to work on Pretty Little Liars, a teen mystery-thriller based on a popular series of novels by Sara Shepard, she knew she needed to fuel-inject the fashion sense of its four central characters. “I told them, ‘I can make this the new fashionista show if you let me step it up a bit. They will watch this show just for the fashion,’” she says. Line was right. Since the show’s premiere on ABC Family in 2010, Pretty Little Liars has become the fashion go-to for young teens who take to Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, obsessively debating the fashion looks of each of the four main characters, whose styles range from richpreppy to boho to rocker-chic. Standing 6 feet tall, with tattoos and cropped hair, Line cuts an imposing figure on the back lot of Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, where the series is filmed. The wardrobe trailer is filled with the signature looks of the show: leather jackets, trench coats, stripes, cut-up T-shirts and bold jewelry. “This is the trailer every young girl would love to have,” Line jokes. “It was essential to make the fashion accessible and affordable. I walk into stores and see groups of girls shopping like their favorite character,” says Line. The show has been credited with starting trends that have seeped into everyday wear, including the now-ubiquitous black-and-white stripes and feather earrings. “A costume designer is always thinking about the character and what is best for them, and if we can create trends in the mix, that is great, especially for retail,” says Line. British-born costume designer Lyn Paolo dressed George Clooney on the long-running medical drama ER and designed the sharp politicos’ looks in The West Wing. But she never expected her position as costume designer for ABC’s political thriller Scandal to make her a household name among fashion-forward working women aspiring to look like the show’s lead character, Olivia Pope (played by
OPENING PAGE: FRANK OCKENFELS 3/AMC. PREVIOUS PAGE: BRYANT, ELISABETH CAREN; LINE, PAOLO AND CRABTREE,
“These people are naked not only physically but emotionally, and they trust you to support and help the vision of their characters.”
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Kerry Washington). “In the past you didn’t get a lot of attention, which was fine, because you were behind the scenes. But Scandal has became such a social-media phenomenon, I was suddenly thrust into the spotlight,” she laughs. “I’m not the kind of person who even Facebooks, but by episode four, Kerry Washington was telling me to get on Twitter, and when I started live tweeting, the response was amazing. I couldn’t believe how invested our viewers were in what Olivia Pope was wearing on each episode.” It’s no wonder, then, that the show’s fans—who have dubbed themselves “gladiators” (from “gladiators in suits,” as the characters called themselves in one of the show’s early episodes)—were excited to learn that Paolo and Washington were teaming up with renowned U.S. fashion retailer the Limited to create a line of clothing. Debuting last fall, the resulting ensembles were inspired by the signature
feminine power suits, pants, capes and jackets worn by the Washington, D.C. political fixer each week. “We wanted to create a line that was aspirational but still affordable, and the Limited was perfect for that,” says Paolo. “Kerry and I were heavily involved over every aspect from the buttons to the linings. This is the first time a costume designer and a leading lady have collaborated on a fashion line.” A holiday collection followed the 42-piece fall collection, and the Limited is also planning a spring 2015 collection to allow gladiators to update their Olivia Pope-inspired wardrobes throughout the year. Some of the clothes will actually be worn by Washington during the show’s current season. “Kerry and I are so proud that we have reinvented the idea of the power woman. There is no need to dress in a masculine way. You can still look feminine,” says Paolo. “It’s been quite emotional getting the responses we have from our gladiators. They are saying
OPPOSITE FROM LEFT: TWO SKETCHES FOR THE LIMITED’S SCANDAL-INSPIRED CLOTHING COLLECTION THIS PAGE: “GLADIATOR” STYLE ON DISPLAY AT THE COLLECTION’S FALL 2014 PREVIEW
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how proud they are to be going on job interviews being able to dress like Olivia Pope. It has given them a real sense of confidence.” If women are embracing their curves more these days, it may be in part because Mad Men’s costume designer, Janie Bryant, turned one of the show’s lead characters, Joan (played by Christina Hendricks), into an instant fashion icon, with her hourglass-figure-hugging dresses. “She is the epitome of femininity in character and figure. She has pizzazz and sass and understands her power and the weakness when men see her,” says Bryant. Sitting in her office in the downtown L.A. studios where Mad Men shot its seven seasons (the final season airs this year), surrounded by fabric swatches, magazine clippings, pattern stencils and collectible Barbie dolls, Bryant lovingly describes each character she dresses like a member of her family. Mad Men is undoubtedly one of the landmark shows of the past decade, recreating the Manhattan advertising world of the hard-drinking, smoke-infused 1960s with complex characters who gained a loyal and devoted fan base. It also propelled a retro revival in fashion for men and women and has helped make Janie Bryant a recognizable brand herself. When Bryant first designed a Mad Men-style suit based on the show’s smoldering lead character Don Draper (played by Jon Hamm) for Brooks Brothers, it sold out in two weeks. “I think the biggest compliment by being the costume designer is that menswear has really transitioned. Don Draper has inspired men to clean up their act and learn about good tailoring,” she says. Bryant, who hails from a small town in Tennessee, says she knew she was destined for sartorial significance at an early age. “My mother said I was born wearing high heels,” she laughs. “I was 8 years old when I made my first dress. I was always very passionate about fashion.” Bryant has worked on Mad Men collections with Banana Republic, was a brand ambassador for lingerie specialist Maidenform, as well as for jewelry line Hearts on Fire, and authored her own book, The Fashion File: Advice, Tips, and Inspiration from the Costume Designer of Mad Men. This year, she plans to continue capitalizing on the opportunities the show has given her. “I am really working on Janie Bryant Inc. now,” she says. She has a line of footwear with online retailer Shoes of Prey (shoesofprey.com) and also hopes to host her own reality show, Janie Bryant’s Hollywood, which is in development with Fashion Star’s EJD Productions. Ane Crabtree has an unusually challenging job—she designs costumes for a show in which the actors often disrobe. Showtime’s Masters of Sex, filmed at Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, is about the pioneering work of human
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sexuality researchers Dr. William Masters (Michael Sheen) and Virginia Johnson (Lizzy Caplan). Its setting is the late 1950s and early 1960s, when men’s and women’s clothing was still very structured and intricately tailored. “I am always thinking about how [the characters] should look when their clothes come off,” Crabtree laughs. “It’s all about the undergarments. It was a time of long-line bras and girdles. They held you in and kept you upright.” Crabtree says one of her tricks is to start with the pointy, cone-shaped bra of the era and then just take a little of the point away. “It makes it more subtle and sexier,” she says. Crabtree’s eye for detail on Masters of Sex, which helps paint a mesmerizing palette each episode, involves hours of custom-making much of the characters’ clothing rather than shopping vintage. Every week, she handcrafts the trademark bow ties Sheen wears. “He suggested I do that because he has a very particular vision for his character, plus, in real life, Estabrooks Masters, Dr. Masters’ mother, made all of his bow ties. So [following suit] gives us a feeling of real authenticity,” she says. She thinks the appeal of retro-focused shows such as Masters of Sex and Mad Men lies in their return to a certain innocence. “It takes you out of the reality of the day to day and back to another time that was maybe more simple and hopeful,” she says. “The clothes are inspiring, timeless and classic.” Crabtree has worked with some of film and television’s biggest stars, including Morgan Freeman, Dustin Hoffman, Sarah Jessica Parker, Helen Hunt and Jennifer Lopez. Critical to a successful working relationship, she says, is earning an actor’s trust. “We are often one of the first people they will meet, and it’s very intimate. These people are naked not only physically but emotionally, and they trust you to sup-
port and help the vision of their characters,” she says. “Your biggest worry is that someone is not going to come out of [his or her] trailer.” As such insights suggest, there’s more to the costume designer’s function than meets the eye. “A lot of people think our job is just shopping, but it’s so much more,” says The Mindy Project’s Perez. “We really help create the character. People know Mindy now because of her clothes. She can work color like no one else. We might put her in a simple skirt suit, but the blazer is houndstooth, the shirt is paisley and the skirt is plaid. Basic colors would just make it ordinary, but this gives her and the character a real sense of individual style.” With Perez’s help, Kaling has also become an inspiration for women of different shapes. “Most actresses are a size 2,” says Perez, noting that while Kaling’s size skews more toward the average woman’s, “we make her look spectacular.” Perez says the key is to tailor the clothes to the body. “It’s something we don’t do anymore, but one size does not fit all. To look good, you have to make sure it fits your body and your proportion. I tell women not to shop a size 8 because that’s what they think they are, but to shop the size that fits them.” Like several of his costume designer peers, Perez now brings his characters’ onscreen style to the masses. He recently teamed up with BaubleBar (baublebar.com) to launch a line of fashion jewelry inspired by his work on The Mindy Project. “I love big chunky jewels and statement jewelry, and we got so many requests from fans of the show, so this is a chance for them to buy it at an affordable price,” he says. “The opportunities are endless now for costume designers,” says Bryant. “We have to create the entire look from head to toe, and we dress men, women and children, all ages and all sizes. It really offers us a unique perspective on all aspects of fashion.”
TOP: SCENES FROM ABC FAMILY’S PRETTY LITTLE LIARS FEATURE TRENDSETTING LOOKS CREATED BY COSTUME DESIGNER MANDI LINE. OPPOSITE: COSTUME DESIGNER SALVADOR PEREZ TEAMED UP WITH BAUBLEBAR TO CREATE A LINE OF BOLD AND COLORFUL JEWELRY, INCLUDING THE GEM-ENCRUSTED EARRINGS AND NECKLACE SEEN HERE, INSPIRED BY HIS WORK ON THE MINDY PROJECT.
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WILD
MORE SERIOUS THAN EVER ABOUT SOURCING LOCALLY, L.A.’S CHEFS FORAGE NEARBY CANYONS AND FOOTHILLS FOR DELICIOUS INGREDIENTS. BY ROGER GRODY 6 2 W H E R E G U E S T B O O K
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After decades of ignorant bliss, Southern Californians are suddenly fascinated by where their food comes from. The farm-to-table movement introduced diners to seasonal, local ingredients, and restaurants now routinely acknowledge specific farms and ranches on their menus. The latest trend of seeking and gathering wild, native foods, known as foraging—which has resulted in a radical cousin of California cuisine sometimes referred to as “transitional gastronomy”—appeals to our primal roots.
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LAMB WITH SPAGHETTI SQUASH AND SMOKED RABBIT TOBACCO, PREPARED BY CHEF C.J. JACOBSON OF GIRASOL IN STUDIO CITY THIS PAGE: SPRING PEAS, FORAGED MOREL MUSHROOMS AND MINT AT ALMA IN DOWNTOWN L.A. OPPOSITE: DRY-AGED NEW YORK STEAK WITH BRAISED BEEF CHEEK, PARSNIP, BLACK KALE, BLACK BARLEY AND WILD-NETTLE JUS AT MÉLISSE IN SANTA MONICA
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Chef René Redzepi, whose Copenhagen restaurant Noma was ranked the best in the world in 2014 by Great Britain’s influential Restaurant magazine, is largely credited with making foraging fashionable. Redzepi treks through Danish forests for wild, untraditional ingredients such as moss, pinecones and ants, which he then transforms into exquisite dishes that have earned a pair of Michelin stars. Foraging has caught on in L.A., whose foothills and canyons offer a surprisingly rich selection of wild berries, flowers and herbs. Chefs who used to spend their scarce time sourcing ingredients at the Santa Monica Farmers Market might now be found hiking through the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, collecting wildflowers, herbs and greens. And supporting those chefs is a cottage industry of professional foragers who deliver their unique harvests to kitchens all over town. Pascal Baudar, a wild-food purveyor, instructor and author, is probably the biggest name in the L.A. foraging community. For more than a decade, he has been studying and preaching wild-food harvesting, natural
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preservation and a new form of gastronomy based on ancient traditions. Although promoting a sustainable lifestyle was Baudar’s original motivation, his expertise in wild native foods has come to the attention of Southern California’s best chefs. “Growing up in Belgium on a 19th century farm, there wasn’t much to do as a kid, so I spent a lot of time wandering through the forests,” recounts Baudar, noting it’s not unusual in Europe for wild ingredients to find their way onto the dinner table. His interest in a sustainable lifestyle was piqued during the short-lived Y2K scare, but he continued to learn as much about foraging as he could from anybody who had something to contribute, from wild-eyed survivalists to respected professors of botany. Baudar took about 400 different classes and workshops but was disappointed by the blandness of the food produced by the instructors. “I was completely fascinated by the flavors, but those people didn’t think in terms of flavors or gourmet food,” he says. Baudar’s website features foraging tips, recipes and class schedules for any home cook or professional chef interested in advancing well beyond a farm-to-table mentality. Mia Wasilevich, Baudar’s partner both personally and professionally, maintains a sister website dedicated to the transformation of wild ingredients into sophisticated cuisine, something the couple call transitional gastronomy. “Transitional gastronomy is a cooking style based in sustainability, incorporating Old World, traditional food preservation and techniques translated for a modern palate,” notes Wasilevich. The wild, native foods she and Baudar source from the urban wilderness and local forests or deserts can be manipulated into highly sophisticated dishes. “We’re a lil’ bit country and a lil’ bit escargot,” she says playfully. The couple cater multicourse transitional gastronomy meals for small groups—virtually everything, even the salt, is foraged—costing $1,500 and up. Baudar reports that guests are frequently moved to tears by the end of the procession of unique but gourmet plates created primarily with ingredients plucked from Southern California’s deserts and mountains. More than 30 restaurant chefs have taken Baudar’s weekly classes over the past five years, and some hot culinary stars have become his clients. “Most of the restaurants I worked for have become really famous,” says the instructor, more with good-natured humor than arrogance. But with a list of past and present clients that includes Mélisse, Alma, Girasol and Trois Mec, he has plenty of room for pride. At Trois Mec, Baudar created
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DALE BERMAN. OPPOSITE: PASCAL BAUDAR
artisanal mustard for chef/co-owner Ludo Lefebvre from wild black mustard, a plant so plentiful it grows along some local freeways. To the mustard seeds he adds his own wild elderberry wine and self-brewed mugwort beer transformed into vinegar by bacteria from local fruit flies. “Every jar represents eight or nine hours of work,” Baudar says of the incredibly labor-intensive process. “If I had to sell it I’d have to charge $200 per jar,” notes Baudar, an observation that helps one understand why there’s currently no restaurant in Southern California dedicated exclusively to foraged ingredients, like Copenhagen’s Noma. “If we had the money, Mia and I would open one,” he quips. Even cocktails can be part of transitional gastronomy, and Baudar has worked extensively with celebrity mixologist Matthew Biancaniello to bring wild ingredients to the bar. Chris “C.J.” Jacobson, a popular contestant on Bravo TV’s Top Chef—he recently won a foraging-oriented face-off on Top Chef Duels—is one of L.A.’s leading proponents of the local wild-food movement. In 2011, he landed a stagiaire position at Noma, an experience that affected his culinary philosophy more profoundly than any reality show appearance. Now executive chef at Studio City’s Girasol, part of a dining renaissance in the San Fernando Valley, Jacobson introduces what he learned from Redzepi onto a California menu that celebrates local ingredients. The 6-foot-8 Jacobson isn’t afraid to go foraging himself, and even takes his staff on treks through the canyons abutting Angeles National Forest, returning with items such as willow herb, rabbit tobacco, manzanita berries and California juniper. On his menu, sweet clover goes into a reduction sauce for pork, while wild sorrel and white fir from Southern California foothills complement hamachi. “I felt like I knew my own terroir as well as René knew his, and felt that foraging here would broaden my sense of what California cuisine is all about,” explains Jacobson, who sardonically notes that many L.A. chefs stretch the definition of “local” to include ingredients harvested near the Oregon border. Although he sometimes works with Pascal Baudar, mastering the skills of foraging helps the chef connect with his roots. “For me, it’s an opportunity to get in touch with where you’re from,” says the Southern California native. For Jacobson, foraging takes him to the same rugged ecosystems he played in while growing up around the Santa Ana Mountains in Orange County. “When Pascal
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came through the back door of the restaurant with these foraged items, they were unexpectedly familiar to me,” says the chef, who remembered the smell of the wild sweet clover that stained his clothes as a kid. “All of those plants grow in abundance, although we’re only getting about 20 percent as much as usual because of the drought,” he reports. “They’re also fairly intense. ... [A] little bit of white sage, for instance, goes a long way.” Chef/co-owner Ari Taymor of downtown L.A.’s highly acclaimed Alma has also embraced foraging, and Baudar briefly collaborated with the Bay Area transplant as he acquainted himself with the local wild bounty. Co-owner Ashleigh Parsons, the restaurant’s creative director, reports that about 10 percent of the ingredients that make it onto the chef’s plates originate in a garden dedicated to the restaurant, while about 2 to 5 percent are foraged. Although those numbers are small, Parsons insists they create a huge impact. “Those are the ingredients that provide the details and beauty of a dish, while the sustenance comes from purveyors or the farmers market,” she says. “They’re what make it pop ... the last notes that complete the composition.” Alma now works exclusively with professional gardener and forager Courtney Guerra, who cooked and gardened at Meadowood, the prestigious Napa Valley resort, while attending the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone. Guerra did her externship at Mélisse in Santa Monica, where chef/owner Josiah Citrin regularly incorporates foraged ingredients into his elegant cuisine. Afterward, she remained in Southern California and established an urban farm in Venice that encompasses Alma’s 2,400-square-foot garden. Parsons, emphasizing the importance of enlisting the services of an experienced forager like Guerra, cautions, “It’s not a low-risk endeavor to go into the wild and bring edibles back.” Guerra makes weekly treks to Santa Barbara County, where she finds the yield more diverse and plentiful than in Greater L.A. “I use that one day a week as a kind of sanctuary … a restorative time,” Guerra says of her excursions. She typically begins on the coast near Rincon Point, where the history of the Chumash Indians provides extra inspiration. There, Guerra forages for items such as seaweed, kelp, coastal radishes, salt water for poaching
oysters, and even sand that becomes a novel cooking tool in the hands of a skilled chef. Guerra then heads inland to Carpinteria, near a ranch where she once lived. As they do with Jacobson, many of the ingredients she harvests resonate with memories. After being schooled on the varied edibles of the area, she realized, “The bouquets I used to compose at the ranch were actually wild radish and wild mustard blossoms.” Guerra credits Ari Taymor as one of the few chefs in L.A. who fully appreciate the value of the items she discovers in the wild, noting that he already looks forward to his seasonal favorites. From Carpinteria, she might deliver nasturtium, chickweed, oxalis (wild sorrel), wild fennel and wild radishes—possibly even snails. “Just because it’s edible doesn’t mean it necessarily tastes good,” advises Guerra, who says a selective chef like Taymor might opt only for half of the ingredients she brings to the kitchen every week. At Alma, a dish of smoked cod with verbena, coastal radish and selected wild herbs represents a simple elegance inspired by Guerra’s harvest. “Customers love hearing about the foraged ingredients,” says Parsons, who notes that Alma’s servers are well-equipped to provide details to diners who engage them on the subject. “It’s almost like a piece of theater unrolling in front of them,” she says of those unique ingredients from the hills, canyons and estuaries of Southern California that can completely transform a dish. Courtney Guerra doesn’t necessarily anticipate foraging becoming a mainstream practice and seems to find comfort in the fact that it can’t be translated into either mass production or mass appeal. “There’ll always be chefs who embrace it and find value in foraging,” she says of people like Taymor, adding, “It’s an expression of who they are as chefs.” Pascal Baudar is equally uncertain, reporting, “I don’t know if it will be just a trend,” but he accepts that it’s definitely not for everybody. “A lot of chefs who attend my classes leave after three or four sessions and go back to farm-to-table,” he says, emphasizing how demanding transitional gastronomy can be. “I don’t give a damn if this is just a passing trend,” insists an impassioned C.J. Jacobson, who is committed to trekking onward. “It’s inspiring to pick something out there and put it on a plate just hours later!”
“I felt like I knew my own terroir as well as René knew his, and felt that foraging here would broaden my sense of what California cuisine is all about.”
OPPOSITE: WILD JAPANESE YELLOWTAIL “BURI” WITH WILD BLACK MUSTARD AND BABY TURNIP AT MÉLISSE IN SANTA MONICA THIS PAGE: WILD RADISH (TOP) AND TURKEY TAIL MUSHROOMS, TWO OF PROFESSIONAL FORAGER PASCAL BAUDAR’S REGULAR FINDS
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NEIGHBORHOODS LOS ANGELES COUNTY COMPRISES MANY CITIES AND COMMUNITIES. HERE ARE THE MOST VISITED.
DOWNTOWN Downtown boasts acclaimed performing-arts institutions, restaurants, architecture and shops. Grand Park stretches east from the Music Center, home to the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Ahmanson Theatre and Mark Taper Forum. The Museum of Contemporary Art and the soonto-open Broad museum are nearby. Staples Center-adjacent L.A. Live, featuring Nokia Theatre, Club Nokia and the Grammy Museum, offers stylish casual eateries, as does the renovated Figat7th complex. Olvera Street, Chinatown and Little Tokyo showcase L.A.’s ethnic history, while the jewelry, flower, art and fashion districts attract savvy shoppers. The Expo Line connects downtown to Exposition Park, where the California Science Center’s impressive addition, the space shuttle Endeavour, is on display.
LONG BEACH & SAN PEDRO Much of Long Beach’s activity is focused around its harbor, the permanent home of the Queen Mary, now a floating hotel, event and dining destination. Among other attractions are the Long Beach Performing Arts Center, the Pike at Rainbow Harbor dining, shopping and entertainment complex, and the family-friendly Aquarium of the Pacific. Lively dining and nightlife spots beckon along Pine Avenue and 2nd Street in Belmont Shore, while vintage shops pack East 4th Street’s “Retro Row.” In neighboring San Pedro, the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium at Cabrillo Beach offers hands-on attractions, Ports O’ Call Village features shops and restaurants, and the decommissioned USS Iowa welcomes museumgoers aboard at the Port of Los Angeles.
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FROM LEFT: DALE BERMAN (2); EDWIN SANTIAGO (2)
BEVERLY HILLS Beverly Hills may be 101 years old, but the old girl is still a knockout. Vera Wang, Burberry and Saint Laurent’s largest womenswear-only store recently joined grandes dames such as Cartier and Chanel on Rodeo Drive. Barneys, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue on Wilshire Boulevard anchor the retail district’s south end. Old-school celebrities descend from manses north of Sunset Boulevard or in adjacent Bel-Air and Holmby Hills to dine with their agents at the Polo Lounge or Spago, and they get their cultural fix at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. Neighboring Westwood is home to UCLA and the Geffen Playhouse, while to the south, Culver City offers a hip art and design scene, plus access to downtown via Metro’s expanding Expo light-rail line.
MALIBU Rugged natural beauty, wealth and glamour collide in Malibu. Miles of L.A.’s most picturesque beaches are here, in addition to impressive beachfront homes and sprawling hillside estates. It’s a shopper’s playground, boasting such destinations as Malibu Country Mart, with Cali-chic shops including Curve, Madison and Michael Stars, and the adjacent Malibu Lumber Yard, home to Intermix and James Perse. Both the wild spaces and the shopping centers are ripe for spotting celebrities. Pacific Coast Highway is lined with restaurants such as Mastro’s Ocean Club and Nobu Malibu, both of which command spectacular coastal views and serve some of the finest fare in the ’Bu. Also enticing are the nearby bohemian enclave of Topanga and tony Pacific Palisades, home of Will Rogers State Historic Park and the splendid art, architecture and gardens of the Getty Villa.
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S f a c m t
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 worldclass restaurants--many of which are still owned and operated by generations-old family merchants. We invite you to visit one of the city’s most iconic destinations, made from the timeless ingredients of family, friends and fun.
6333 W. Third ST. • LoS AngeLeS 323.933.9211 • fArmerSmArkeTLA.com #fArmerSmArkeTLA Insta
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VENICE Venice is no longer simply a bodybuilder hangout or street-hawker hot spot—although Muscle Beach and Ocean Front Walk remain, adding considerable quirk. Modernday Venice is better known for its sizzling-hot boulevard, Abbot Kinney, where hip boutiques, restaurants and nightlife spots reside in quaint bungalows and contemporary lofts. Independent shops such as Tortoise General Store mix with high-end retail chains such as Iro and Rag & Bone, plus trendy restaurants such as Gjelina, Salt Air and Willie Jane. Nearby Rose Avenue is coming up, too, thanks to acclaimed new restaurants, swanky lofts and a gaggle of independent boutiques. Along Main Street, which parallels the beach and extends into Santa Monica, more boutiques including Planet Blue alternate with bars and restaurants such as Chaya Venice and Ado.
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SANTA MONICA Santa Monica is a shopper’s and surfer’s paradise. Draws along the 3.5 miles of world-famous coastline include Santa Monica Pier, with its attraction-packed Pacific Park, the Annenberg Community Beach House and historic Marion Davies Guest House. Inland, enjoy upscale shopping and dining at independent boutiques and cafés on swanky Montana Avenue and laid-back Main Street. More boutiques and eateries, plus your favorite trendy chains, populate downtown’s Third Street Promenade, whose three-block pedestrian stretch terminates at the open-air Santa Monica Place shopping center. For dining and nightlife, hot destinations include Tar & Roses, Father’s Office, Brilliantshine and seafood spot Blue Plate Oysterette.
SILVER LAKE & LOS FELIZ Young bohemian types make their homes in these enclaves east of Hollywood, where funky boutiques, dive bars, cafés and music clubs proliferate. Sunset Junction in Silver Lake is the epicenter of cool, featuring Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea, charming boutiques such as ReForm School, and the Silverlake Conservatory of Music. A similarly eclectic vibe reverberates along Vermont and Hillhurst avenues in neighboring Los Feliz, where Messhall Kitchen and 24-hour diner Fred 62 serve casual eats. To the north, Griffith Park offers miles of trails, Travel Town, the L.A. Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Autry National Center, the Greek Theatre and the iconic Griffith Observatory. Design lovers can appreciate the array of midcentury-modern homes by renowned architects Richard Neutra and Frank Lloyd Wright.
WEST HOLLYWOOD West Hollywood is a locus of contemporary design, from the fashion boutiques that line its streets to the furniture and decor showrooms in its city center. Marc by Marc Jacobs is a favorite on Melrose Avenue, while Irene Neuwirth, A.P.C. and the Row are newer additions to Melrose Place. To the south, West 3rd Street hosts indie boutiques and cafés. Nearby, the Grove and the adjacent Farmers Market are an all-in-one dining, shopping and entertainment destination. The Pacific Design Center at San Vicente Boulevard and Melrose Avenue anchors the West Hollywood Design District, bounded by Beverly Boulevard to the south. To the north, the fabled Sunset Strip buzzes after dark with clubs, bars and restaurants including notable newcomers Hyde Sunset Kitchen + Cocktails, Yellowtail and 1 Oak.
FROM LEFT: IAN WHITE; EDWIN SANTIAGO; MATT HARTMAN; SARAH HADLEY
NEIGHBORHOODS
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PASADENA From the annual Tournament of Roses to the historic Arts and Crafts-style Gamble House, the city of Pasadena offers myriad and diverse cultural attractions. Art lovers can visit local institutions such as the Norton Simon Museum, the Pasadena Museum of California Art and the USC Pacific Asia Museum, while families can get hands-on at the Kidspace Children’s Museum. The Rose Bowl Flea Market lures treasure hunters, and the science-minded can tour Caltech, as well as NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in La Cañada Flintridge. Downtown, historic Old Pasadena bustles with dining spots and chic boutiques such as the new Cop. Copine and Finn + Willow in the burgeoning One Colorado shopping complex. In nearby San Marino, the Huntington Library, Art Collection, and Botanical Gardens encompasses 120 acres.
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SAN FERNANDO VALLEY The biggest names in the entertainment industry spend time in the San Fernando Valley, aka the “Valley of the Stars.” Because the biggest film studios in the county are here, it’s more Hollywood than Hollywood itself. Free TV audience tickets and back-lot tours at studios including Warner Bros. offer a behind-the-scenes look at the film industry. Universal CityWalk and the adjacent Universal Studios Hollywood draw visitors with tours, thrill rides, restaurants, nightclubs, novelty stores and other attractions. Charming shopping and trendy dining options abound in downtown Burbank, vintage haven Magnolia Park, Toluca Lake, North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District and along Ventura Boulevard in Studio City.
HOLLYWOOD There’s hardly a block of Tinseltown that hasn’t been photographed and splashed across a movie screen, which is why visitors arrive en masse. They flock to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and restored movie theaters such as El Capitan Theatre and TCL Chinese Theatre to get a piece of the (lights, camera) action. The Hollywood & Highland Center provides even more opportunities to tap into the Hollywood experience past and present, offering shopping and dining, plus the Dolby Theatre, site of the Academy Awards. Meanwhile, locals hit the club scene along Hollywood and Cahuenga boulevards, enjoy new releases at ArcLight Cinemas and take in live music alfresco at the beloved Hollywood Bowl, summer home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. DISCOVER MORE BY PICKING UP WHERE LOS ANGELES MAGAZINE AND DOWNLOADING THE WHERE TRAVELER CITY GUIDE APP
SOUTH BAY Laid-back, seaside charm meets big-city style in the trio of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach. Miles of waves, white sand and an oceanfront bike/pedestrian path beckon surfers, volleyball players and other fitness buffs, while stylish boutiques such as Wright’s in Manhattan and Gum Tree in Hermosa entice discerning shoppers. Top-notch restaurants including Little Sister, Fishing With Dynamite and M.B. Post in Manhattan, plus a lively bar and club scene near Hermosa and Redondo’s piers, keep the “Beach Cities” humming at night. Farther south, Terranea Resort and Trump National Golf Club perch on Palos Verdes Peninsula’s rugged ocean bluffs, and to the east, Plaza El Segundo offers prime retail and dining in the shadow of LAX.
FROM LEFT: IAN WHITE (2); DALE BERMAN; BENJAMIN GINSBERG
NEIGHBORHOODS
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Anthropologie · Barbara Bui · Berluti · Bottega Veneta · Brioni · Burberry · Canali · Cartier · Chanel Chopard · Coach · Dior · Donna Karan New York · Ermenegildo zegna · Façonnable · Fendi · Gucci Intermix · IWC · Jimmy Choo · John Varvatos · lanvin · louis Vuitton · Maje · The North Face · prada Roger Vivier · Rolex · Salvatore Ferragamo · Sandro · Sephora · Stuart Weitzman · Sur la table · tiffany & Co. tod’s · tory Burch · tumi · uniqlo · Vacheron Constantin · Valentino · West Elm · Williams-Sonoma · zara AnQi by Crustacean · The Capital Grill · Din tai Fung · Marché Moderne · Seasons 52 Saks Fifth Avenue · Bloomingdale’s · Nordstrom · Macy’s partial listing
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spending time SHOPPING WHAT SEDUCES HOLLYWOOD SEDUCES THE WORLD—A FACT NOT LOST ON INTERNATIONAL FASHION HOUSES. ACCORDINGLY, DESIGNERS TO THE STARS POSITION THEIR BOUTIQUES ACROSS LOS ANGELES’ TONIEST SHOPPING DISTRICTS, FROM RODEO DRIVE TO MELROSE PLACE AND BEYOND. THE GLOBAL INFLUENCE OF THE COUNTY’S HOMEGROWN BRANDS COMPLETES THE L.A. STORY.
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LOOK BOOK Los Angeles’ world-renowned shopping venues sparkle with fashion, jewelry, beauty and gifts—many made locally.
GARRETT LEIGHT CALIFORNIA OPTICAL
YO L K
TO D D R E E D
You could say Garrett Leight was made in the shades: His father, Larry Leight, founded famed eyewear brand Oliver Peoples. At Garrett Leight California Optical on South La Brea Avenue, the younger Leight sells acetate-framed glasses and sunglasses on the razor’s edge of California cool. Shown: the unisex Bentley Sun. 323.931.4018, garrettleight.com Todd Reed’s line of rough-hewn, ethically sourced fine jewelry is based in Boulder, Colorado, but the West Coast flagship in Venice is where jewelers craft the men’s collection of jewelry and accessories. These 18-karat-gold cuff links sparkle with rose-cut and cubed diamonds. 310.450.7840, toddreed.com The fashion- and art-world elite flock to L.A.’s Just One Eye for designer clothing, accessories, furnishings and gifts, including inspired collaborations such as a leather backpack by Damien Hirst and the Row. Find apparel from local labels, including this Best Wishes leather jacket by Austin Sherbanenko and pop-artistcum-clothing-designer Wes Lang. 323.969.9129, justoneeye.com
ALCH E M Y WO R KS
Alchemy Works in downtown’s hip Arts District offers artworks, apparel, wabi-sabi housewares, grooming products and more (like this L.A.-made Weiss Watch Co. Standard Issue Field Watch) in an industrial-cool space. 323.487.1497, alchemyworks.us
JUST ONE EYE
“Free range design” is the maxim at Yolk, where Scandinavian decor, kids’ apparel and toys and design-centric gifts line the shelves. Handmade treasures from around the globe mingle with goods designed by local artisans. Pictured is a soy candle from L.A.’s Le Feu de L’Eau. 323.660.4315, shopyolk.com
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Greg Chait’s line of upscale sportswear and accessories, The Elder Statesman, utilizes heirloom-quality materials in everyday silhouettes: 100 percent cashmere scarves (such as the Malta, shown here), genuine horn sunglasses. The mostly unisex pieces are produced at the company’s downtown factory and sold at its new West Hollywood boutique. 424.288.4221, elder-statesman.com
MONIQUE LHUILLIER
IRENE NEUWIRTH
Before Monique Lhuillier’s gowns are worn on red carpets, they’re meticulously crafted at her downtown L.A. studio. Lhuillier’s salon anchors the retail collection on Melrose Place, offering ready-to-wear, bridal and footwear such as these rose-gold Ava pumps from the spring collection. 323.655.1088, moniquelhuillier.com L.A. fine jeweler Irene Neuwirth has celebrity fans in spades: Charlize, Reese, Julia, Scarlett and more. Now they can ogle her organically inspired baubles at the designer’s first boutique, which debuted last fall on Melrose Place. Shown here are pink opal rosette earrings encircled with pavé diamonds. 323.285.2000, ireneneuwirth.com
PA R A B E L L U M
Hourglass Cosmetics founder Carisa Janes makes her home in Venice, so it’s fitting that the brand’s flagship boutique opened on Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Here, find Hourglass’ full range of luxury cosmetics (shown here: Femme Rouge Velvet Crème Lipstick in Icon) and state-of-the-art skin-care line. 310.392.3409, hourglasscosmetics.com
HOURGL ASS COSMETIC S
The Old and New worlds collide at Parabellum, a leather-goods manufacturer whose craftsmanship is rooted in artisanal methods. Chic wallets, handbags, belts and other small leather goods are created in L.A. with free-range American bison leather and finished with militarygrade ceramic or copper hardware. Parabellum’s Medicine Woman handbag is pictured at left. 323.852.0800, parabellumcollection.com
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SHOPPING SHOPPING DESTINATIONS
IRO
THE AMERICANA AT BRANDCL9000006279 The Americana, from the creators of The Grove and inspired by a 1930s downtown, comprises some 40 retailers, more than a dozen restaurants and the 18-screen Pacific Theatres. Recent additions include Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak and David Yurman and Diane von Furstenberg boutiques. 889 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.637.8982, americanaatbrand.com
30 to 70 percent off retail prices. 100 Citadel Drive, L.A., 323.888.1724, citadeloutlets.com H THE GROVECL0000022207 Inspired by a grand old downtown complete with a trolley, this wildly popular outdoor center has more than 50 shops and nine restaurants set in art deco, Spanish colonial revival, mission and modern buildings. Historic Farmers Market is adjacent. 189 The Grove Drive, L.A., 323.900.8080, thegrovela.com
CHIC SHOPPING À LA MODE High-end French high-street brands have invaded L.A., making the très-chic fashion of Paris de rigueur in some of the city’s swankiest shopping areas. On Beverly Drive and in the Beverly Center, Maje and Sandro both have locations where they sell their oh là là-worthy feminine frocks. Iro sells its edgy leathers and rock ’n’ roll-chic designs at two sleek new locations, on Beverly Drive and Abbot Kinney Boulevard. The Kooples recently opened its West Coast flagship on trendy Robertson Boulevard, selling the brand’s complete contemporary collection. The influx continues with the celeb-beloved Zadig & Voltaire, which added to its Sunset Plaza and Malibu
Chrome Hearts. Malibu Lumber Yard is adjacent. 3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.7300, malibucountrymart.com MALIBU LUMBER YARD0133 This small collection of upscale retailers is adjacent to Malibu Country Mart and includes Alice + Olivia, Maxfield, Kitson, Vilebrequin, Alexis Bittar and Tory Burch. 3939 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, themalibulumberyard.com
H HOLLYWOOD & HIGHLAND CENTER Home of the Dolby Theatre and the Academy Awards, this Tinseltownthemed retail, dining and entertainment center features high-tech bowling, restaurants, state-of-theart cinemas and dozens of specialty shops including Louis Vuitton and Sephora. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.6412, hollywoodandhighland.com
H ONE COLORADO0133 This Old Pasadena destination offers a charming shopping and dining experience amid a collection of 17 historic buildings featuring cobblestone walkways and wrought-iron details. Equally beguiling is One Colorado’s mix of independently owned and top national retailers, including local treasure Gold Bug and Parisian import Cop. Copine. 41 Hugus Alley, Old Pasadena, 626.564.1066, onecolorado.com
BRENTWOOD COUNTRY MART The collection of cool boutiques at this barn-styled shopping center makes it a no-brainer stop for the celebs who live in nearby mansions. Among winning picks are delicate jewelry at Broken English, unique dresses at Calypso St. Barth and denim at Unionmade. 225 26th St., Santa Monica, brentwoodcountrymart.com
JAPANESE VILLAGE PLAZACL0000022209 Nestled among attractions such as the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center and the Japanese American National Museum, the plaza features dozens of restaurants and shops selling Japanese books, art and sundry specialty products. Consider mochi ice cream at Mikawaya pastry shop. 335 E. 2nd St., downtown, 213.617.1900, japanesevillageplaza.net
H ONTARIO MILLS With its 1.7 million square feet, this is California’s largest outlet shopping destination. Among its 200-plus stores are Polo Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss, DKNY and Tommy Hilfiger Company Store, as well as anchors Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th, Nordstrom Rack and Neiman Marcus Last Call—plus a 30-screen cineplex. 1 Mills Circle, Ontario, 909.484.8300, ontariomills.com
H CITADEL OUTLETSCL904031 Located in a former factory inspired by an ornate Assyrian palace, the Citadel is the only outlet center in L.A. Its 130 premium stores include Guess, H&M, Calvin Klein, Coach and Kate Spade New York, offering
MALIBU COUNTRY MARTCL9000006282 The mart has been around for ages, but new shops are constantly being added to the list of around 40 boutique tenants. Pick up shades at Oliver Peoples, swimwear at Letarte or rock ’n’ roll jewelry at
H SANTA MONICA PLACECL9000006920 A glittering three-level, open-air center anchors Third Street Promenade. A youth-skewed Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom join some 50 specialty boutiques, such as L.A.-based Kitson. The rooftop Dining Deck features a
H BEVERLY CENTERCL0000022205 This trendsetting marketplace at the edge of Beverly Hills and West Hollywood features more than 100 shops and restaurants. Newer retailers such as Uniqlo and Giuseppe Zanotti Design mingle with luxury brands including Saint Laurent and Jimmy Choo, as well as French designer labels Maje and Sandro. The center is anchored by Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s Men’s Store. 8500 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.854.0070, beverlycenter.com
Country Mart boutiques with a new West Coast flagship on Rodeo Drive. And cult-favorite French label Cop. Copine now brings its effortlessly cool fashion to Old Pasadena’s One Colorado shopping complex.
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ing establishments, curated by Westfield, in the Tom Bradley International Terminal. Shops include Fred Segal, Tumi and Porsche Design, and dining options include James' Beach and Border Grill. Similar amenities in Terminal 2 are due in late summer. 380 World Way, L.A., 310.646.1770, westfieldatlax.com ★ WESTFIELD CENTURY CITYC0000022215 This pleasant open-air mall features some 150 stores, including Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s and Tiffany & Co. The AMC multiplex features stadium seating and floorto-ceiling, wall-to-wall screens. Inside the atrium and out on the terrace are casual and fine-dining sites with skyline views. 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 310.277.3898, westfield.com
LOST & FOUND IN SANTA MONICA
food court, restaurants and a gourmet marketplace. 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, 310.260.8333, santamonicaplace.com ★ SOUTH COAST PLAZACL0000022212 International destination South Coast Plaza is a mecca of designer retail, from more affordable stores—Tory Burch, Lacoste, J.Crew—to some of the most exclusive brands: Gucci, Hermès and Balenciaga, to name a few. Amenities include personal shopper/stylist services. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888, southcoastplaza.com ★ SUNSET PLAZACL0000022212 “Chic” is the word at this upscale row of designer boutiques, sidewalk cafés and specialty shops. Browse high-end stores such as Calleen Cordero, Oliver Peoples, H. Lorenzo, Wildfox and Zadig & Voltaire. Get pampered at Ole Henriksen Face/Body spa, Eden by Eden Sassoon and Jessica Nail Clinic. 8600-8700 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.652.2622, sunsetplaza.com
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THIRD STREET PROMENADECL0000022203 The cobblestone pedestrian-only shopping zone spans three blocks, from Broadway to Wilshire Boulevard. Watch street artists performing with all manner of talents, and shop in stores including Zara, Anthropologie and Sephora. Street-side restaurants include Barney’s Beanery and Trastevere Trattoria Italiana. 1351 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, 310.393.8355, downtownsm.com
WEST HOLLYWOOD DESIGN DISTRICT The epicenter of the West Coast’s design industry, this lively district boasts more than 1.5 million square feet of showrooms, shops and galleries. More than 15 art galleries, 100 antique and contemporary furniture stores, 25 restaurants and cafés, and 30 high-end fashion and lifestyle boutiques line the boulevards. Melrose Avenue and Robertson and Beverly boulevards, West Hollywood, westhollywooddesigndistrict.com
SHOPS+BOUTIQUES
★ TWO RODEOCL0000022214 In the heart of Beverly Hills’ worldrenowned shopping district is Two Rodeo, an ensemble of restaurants and boutiques offering distinctive dining, luxury-life wares and haute fashion. Luxury brands include Lanvin, Versace, Tiffany & Co., Jimmy Choo, Agent Provocateur and Vertu. 9478 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.247.7040, tworodeo.com
A + RCL9000006283 Design products at A + R are functional, artful and heavy on wit. Owned by former film editor Andy Griffith and fashion journalist Rose Apodaca (hence “A plus R”), the store offers internationally sourced home products, gifts and objets d’art, often high concept and always superstylish. 1121 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 800.913.0071; 171 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.692.0086, aplusrstore.com
★ WESTFIELD AT LAXCL0000022215 Visitors flying out of LAX can enjoy some of the city’s top retail and din-
ACNE STUDIOS The arrival of this cult-favorite Swedish retailer in downtown L.A.’s his-
toric Eastern Columbia Building— the brand’s largest store—signaled a retail renaissance along Broadway. Find accessories, denim staples and experimental fashions for men and women, plus an in-store Il Caffè coffee bar. 855 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.243.0960, acnestudios.com ★ ABUNDANCECL0000022217 This feminine, upscale boutique for women size 12 and up carries classic clothing with flair. Citron, Astarte and Tianello are among the featured designers. For dressy occasions, look for gowns and eveningwear from brands such as Damianou and Tadashi. 13604 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818.990.6128, abundanceplussizes.com ★ ALTIVO TIMEPIECESCL0000022217 Active and outdoorsy types head to Altivo’s newly remodeled and expanded Hollywood showroom to find watches from the U.S., Japan, Finland, Switzerland and Italy arranged in a modern, easy-to-navigate space. The shop carries dozens of brands including Brera Orologi, Nixon, Suunto and Aviator. 7221 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.933.1460, altivo.com AMERICAN RAG CIE This legendary one-stop shop fully outfits men and women in complete L.A.-chic ensembles. Clothing ranges from a carefully chosen vintage section to the cult-favorite Japanese label Comme des Garçons. The wide range of designer denim, bags and sunglasses can be mesmerizing. Adjoining Maison Midi features French home decor, furniture and gift items. 150 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.935.3154, amrag.com BURNING TORCH The Los Angeles-based lifestyle brand known for its bohemian-luxe clothes and accessories, many of which feature recycled vintage elements, looks right at home in its flagship boutique on hip Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Find washed-leather jackets and cozy
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DECADESCL0000022229 Decades is a vintage shrine where everything is for sale, such as Hermès bags and Yves Saint Laurent dresses. Even designer junkies get tired of their clothes, and they bring them to Decades, which sells the best of recent years’ fashions from Gucci to Prada and more. 8214 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.655.1960, decadesinc.com DESTINATION: SAMACL0000022229 Sama Eyewear was founded in 1998 by designer Sheila Vance. Her approach to designing, manufacturing and distributing ultra-premium eyewear has established Sama as one of the world’s finest eyewear companies. In addition to the signature collection, the boutique offers L’Agence and Loree Rodkin Eye Couture by Sama. 9530 Brighton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.271.1734, samaeyewear.net CLARE V. SANTA MONICA
cashmere alongside antique and vintage home goods. 1627 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.399.1920, burningtorchinc.com CHARIOTS ON FIRE Embracing “modern as an attitude rather than a style,” this lovely specialty shop boasts jewelry by Polly Wales, ceramics by Makoto Kagoshima and much more. Looking for a made-in-L.A. gift? Many makers and artists represented here are locals. 1342 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.3088, chariotsonfire.com CHARLOTTE OLYMPIACL0000022222 Watch the red carpet closely and you’ll notice the shoe-savviest of celebrities stepping out in vertiginous pumps with distinctive spiderweb-stamped soles. Thanks to its 1,250-squarefoot Beverly Hills boutique, you can find all of Charlotte Olympia Dellal’s shoe and handbag collections in one glamorous spot. 474 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.276.1111, charlotteolympia.com
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CLARE V. Clare Vivier’s Silver Lake flagship boutique features her line of brightly colored, minimalist handbags, accessories and gadget cases, made locally since 2008. A new Santa Monica location debuted last year, and a third on Melrose Avenue will open this year. Want to customize your bag? The shops offer a monogramming program. 3339 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.665.2476; 1318A Montana Ave., Santa Monica, 310.395.3079, clarev.com CURVE Discover inspiring new clothing lines in Curve’s well-curated collection. Creations by local designers hang alongside such international favorites as Carven and Giada Forte. The airy Robertson boutique and newer Malibu Country Mart location are favorites with starlets and well-heeled locals alike. 154 N. Robertson Blvd., L.A., 310.360.8008; 3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.9944, shopcurve.com
EGGYCL0000333537 There’s a fine line between cute and cutesy; luckily, children’s boutique Eggy skews to the former. Owner Jenny An selects pieces that look like teeny versions of clothing a kid’s hip parents might wear: peplum tops and bubble shorts for girls, and army jackets and blazers for boys. 8365 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.658.8882, shopeggy.com FRED SEGALCL0000022234 From its locations on Melrose Avenue and in Santa Monica, what may be L.A.’s most famous store has spawned myriad international trends. Also find a Fred Segal in LAX's Tom Bradley International Terminal. 8118 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood; 420 Broadway, Santa Monica, fredsegal.com ★ FREY WILLE Founded in Vienna, Austria, in 1951, Frey Wille has emerged as one of the most exclusive names in jewelry, famous for a vibrantly colored artisan enameling technique that balances classic and contemporary styling.
A men’s collection is also offered, as well as distinctive watches and writing instruments. 441 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.777.0009, freywille.com GARDE “Gift shop” seems far too pedestrian a label for Garde, which exudes an earthy sophistication and gallerylike air. Yet each item here, including Rebecca Atwood pillows, diamond-flecked Satomi Kawakita jewelry, Bernard Schottlander lamps and Michael Verheyden marble home goods, is perfect for giving and getting. 7418 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.424.4667, gardeshop.com ★ GOLD BUGCL0000333549 Offering distinctive jewelry and unique objets d’art, Gold Bug is an Old Pasadena favorite. Find bold pieces at an array of prices from an eclectic selection of talented designers. Unique, provocative collections from acclaimed artists make Gold Bug a standout. 22 E. Union St., Pasadena, 626.744.9963, goldbugpasadena.com GRATUS Owner Meredith Kaplan offers a skillfully edited selection of women’s ready-to-wear, along with accessories, shoes and handbags by designers such as Band of Outsiders, Marni and Suno. On top of some way-cool merch, Kaplan offers an innovative consumer-accessible database that stores all of your purchases. 427 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.276.8200, gratus.com GUM TREECL9000006294 Housed in a quaint, bright bungalow, this boutique is as refreshing as a sea breeze. In addition to an adjoining café and tons of beachy housewares is a pitch-perfect selection of accessories including Zoe Chicco earrings and Chan Luu scarves. Gum Tree Kids is just up the street at 323 Pier Ave. 238 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.376.8744, gumtreela.com
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IROCL0000333543 French fashion label Iro recently opened two L.A. boutiques, in Beverly Hills and Venice. The minimalist shops have an industrial-chic feel, with sleek white walls and black marble floors. Shop the brand’s signature edgy leathers and rock ’n’ roll looks for both men and women. 325 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.276.1885; 1319 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.9680, iroparis.com
THE KOOPLES ON SOUTH ROBERTSON BOULEVARD
HENNESSEY + INGALLSCL9000007065 This art and architecture book shop goes deep—a section is devoted to cottages. From a monograph on Johnny Depp to a guide to Fifty Chairs That Changed the World, these books transcend coffee-table duty. 1520 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, 323.466.1256; 214 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.458.9074, hennesseyingalls.com H. LORENZOL0000022236 Two stores on Sunset offer one of L.A.’s most comprehensive shopping experiences while maintaining a boutique atmosphere. At the women’s location, gowns, suits and casual shirts are by such designers as Ailefan and Comme des Garçons. At the men’s, find Damir Doma and Comme des Garçons Homme Plus. A third location, on Robertson, carries merchandise for both men and women. 8660 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.659.1432; 8646 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.652.7039; 474 N.
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Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.652.0064, hlorenzo.com H HUBLOTL0000333543 The luxury watch brand sells its high-end timepieces at this contemporary Swiss-designed boutique, including the official watch of the Los Angeles Lakers and the Hublot Big Bang Ferrari Beverly Hills. Head to the high-tech shop and browse its watches, displayed impressively in holographic rotating towers. 9470 Brighton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.550.0595, hublot.com HUSETCL0000333543 Gain a fresh perspective on Scandinavian design at Venice’s Huset. The sunny, modern shop showcases a range of furniture, home decor and kitchenware—brightly printed Almedahls tea towels, Iittala Essence wineglasses and Swedese Ivy shelving—plus an array of bohemian clothing. 1316½ Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 424.268.4213, huset-shop.com
JENNI KAYNE Fans of contemporary designer and L.A. native Kayne include Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez and Mary-Kate Olsen. Crisp silhouettes and a dash of edgy details characterize her clothing. The boutiques also carry other picks from the designer, including shoes and accessories. 614 N. Almont Drive, West Hollywood, 310.860.0123; Brentwood Country Mart, 225 26th St., Santa Monica, 424.268.4765, jennikayne.com KELLY WEARSTLER In this flagship boutique from the renowned designer, find fine lifestyle products, luxury goods, furniture, curiosities, statement-making jewelry, vintage books and one-of-a-kind and bespoke designs from Wearstler’s own collections. 8440 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.895.7880, kellywearstler.com H KING BABY STUDIOL An on-site jewelry factory (available for tours) in a cool industrial space featuring reclaimed Venice Pier planks makes a trip to this boutique no ordinary shopping experience. Here, skilled craftsmen create a variety of sterling silver jewelry designs that have been worn by celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Jennifer Lopez and Rihanna. 1621 12th St., Santa Monica, 310.828.4438, kingbabystudio.com KITSONCL0000022243 Kitson boutique continues its role as a celebrity magnet. Near the Robert-
son Boulevard women's location are Kitson Men and Kitson Studio, which features high-end shoes, handbags and clothes. Additional stores include locations in the Glendale Galleria, Santa Monica and West Hollywood. 115 S. Robertson Blvd., L.A., 310.859.2652; Malibu Lumber Yard, 3939 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.317.1421, shopkitson.com THE KOOPLESCL0000022243 The contemporary French fashion house opened its luxe, marble-lined West Coast flagship on Robertson Boulevard last year, delighting fans of its streamlined mens- and womenswear. A second L.A. location just opened in Santa Monica Place. 100 S. Robertson Blvd., L.A., 424.335.0041; 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, 310.434.1000, thekooples.com LANVIN Sunbathers can catch rays in style in beach-ready clothing and accessories from the newest Lanvin boutique in Malibu. Selling items with a beachy twist, the boutique channels the L.A. lifestyle with silk charmeuse dresses, breezy caftans, sandals and beach totes. The more traditional, flagship location is in Beverly Hills. 3826 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.6808; 260 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.402.0580, lanvin.com THE LEFT SHOE COMPANY Podiatric relief meets luxurious, handmade, individually customized style. A 3-D scanner analyzes your precise foot measurements then saves the data in a “membership profile” for use in-store or online. Then, select your shoe style, color and sole, and even opt for a unique personal inscription. 8473D Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.944.0764, leftshoecompany.com LEICA STORE This store carries the entire range of Leica products and accessories, which have been favored by photographers since the company produced one of
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moment bag line Mansur Gavriel and Robert Clergerie's must-have women’s shoes. Men can find their closet building blocks from such toptier and emerging designers as Dries van Noten and Engineered Garments at the guys’ store, Mohawk Man, located a stone’s throw away (4017 W. Sunset Blvd.). 4011 W. Sunset Blvd., Silver Lake, 323.669.1601; 26 Smith Alley, Pasadena, 626.440.1603, mohawkgeneralstore.com NEIL LANE JEWELRYCL9000006297 All that glitters is gold, white gold, platinum or even diamond pavé at Neil Lane Jewelry. The upscale jeweler most often cited on awards ceremony red carpets showcases celeb-worthy stunners at his flagship boutique off Melrose Place. 708 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.275.5015, neillanejewelry.com THE KELLY WEARSTLER FLAGSHIP ON MELROSE AVENUE
the earliest small-format 35mm cameras. It also offers photography books and printing and houses a library and an art gallery with exhibitions of established and rising photographers. 8783 Beverly Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.777.0341, leicastorela.com
earthy-luxe brands as Raquel Allegra and Nili Lotan), plus clothes for men and kids. 6320 Yucca St., Hollywood, 323.856.5872; 2230 Main St., Santa Monica, 310.450.9565; 2000 Main St., Santa Monica, 310.450.9782, lostandfoundshop.com
LE LABO The parfumerie’s hand-blended fragrances, developed from essences from Grasse, France, enjoy a cult following; now you can enjoy finding your signature scent. Blackand-white labels on the brand’s candles, lotions and perfumes share the boutique’s apothecarychic aesthetic. 1138 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.581.2233; 8385 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.0411, lelabofragrances.com
MAXFIELDCL0000022249 Asked to pick his favorite stores in the world, Chanel designer Karl Lagerfeld named the exclusive Maxfield, a Melrose Avenue standout with a newer outpost in Malibu. This boutique is a legend, hosting names such as Céline, Saint Laurent and Libertine. 8825 Melrose Ave., L.A., 310.274.8800; Malibu Lumber Yard, 3939 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.270.9009, maxfieldla.com
LOST & FOUNDCL9000007066 The beloved Hollywood store (actually six little storefronts under one roof) has expanded to Santa Monica. Find artisanal, globally inspired home goods and women’s fashion (including such
MOHAWK GENERAL STORE Find your own artsy look at this hip line of stores, overseen by husbandand-wife owners Kevin and Bo Carney. Shop their carefully edited selection of finds, including of-the-
OKCL9000007022 Owner Larry Schaffer’s love of modern and Japanese design shines in a diverse but aesthetically harmonious assortment of ceramics, tableware, jewelry, art books and more. Some great finds: Gabriela Artigas Infinite Tusk earrings and Comme des Garçons wallets. 8303 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.653.3501; 1716 Silverlake Blvd., Silver Lake, 323.666.1868, okthestore.com OPENING CEREMONYCL9000006298 With a name referring to the Olympics’ opening ceremony, this store pits American clothing designers against those from a selected country. Lines include Rodarte, Acne Studios and Proenza Schouler. Sister store the Little House of Accessories is next door. 451 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.652.1120, openingceremony.us ★ OSKACL0000333708 Minimalist shapes meet choice materials in the signature designs of this Germany-based womenswear company, with two area locations serving the modern L.A. woman. The OSKA
look is understated and elegant, featuring easy, flattering cuts, an earthy palette and casual, fashionable comfort, all with a unique flair. 13 Douglas Alley, Pasadena, 626.432.1729, pasadena.oska.com; 9693 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.271.2806, beverlyhills.oska.com POKETO This cheerful shop, founded by Ted Vadakan and Angie Myung, has a flagship in downtown's Arts District and an outpost in Koreatown's the Line Hotel. Find such art- and designdriven wares as Ben Medansky ceramic mugs, Bag ’n’ Noun totes and limited-edition vinyl artist wallets. 820 E. 3rd St., downtown, 213.537.0751; The Line Hotel, 3515 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 213.381.7411 ext. 3076, poketo.com PRADA The Beverly Hills Prada flagship is not only an important fashion destination; its interior is a masterpiece by Rem Koolhaas. Shoes, clothes and handbags parade down a swooping set of wooden stairs. Don’t be intimidated—it’s free to look. 343 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.278.8661, prada.com ★ PYRRHACL9000400166 This celebrity-favored boutique offers a collection of handcrafted jewelry cast from 19th century wax seals, plus one-of-a-kind pieces rich in imagination and imagery. The whitewashed space is decorated with an eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary furniture and accessories. 8315 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.424.4807, pyrrha.com ★ ROBIN’S JEANCL0000333553 With a celebrity clientele that includes Alicia Keys and Kim Kardashian, Robin’s Jean combines comfort and sex appeal. Its collections, such as the Marilyn, pay homage to oldschool cinema chic with flattering cuts, unique washes and intricate details. Also featured are leather jack-
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experience world-famous Hollywood
Hollywood & Highland features the Dolby Theatre, home of the Academy Awards®, and is steps away from landmarks such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame. With world-class shopping and dining, red carpet movie premieres, and celebrated live theater, it’s the ultimate entertainment destination.
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN DAVE & BUSTER'S | FOREVER 21 HARD ROCK CAFE | LOUIS VUITTON L’OCCITANE | LUCKY STRIKE LANES MAC | OHM NIGHTCLUB | SEPHORA S TARBUCKS | TCL CHINESE THEATER VICTORIA’S SECRET
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ets and clothing for men and kids. 313 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.786.7813, robinsjean.com
Abundance is the only upscale boutique in greater Los Angeles with a creative sensitibility for women size 12 and up. From classic clothing – with a flair – to the unusual, fun and funky. From comfortable business to casual or dressy special occasion: Abundance has it all!
A Plus-Size Boutique
13604 Ventura Boulevard • Sherman Oaks • 818.990.6128 www.AbundancePlusSizes.com
RON HERMANCL0000022256 This minichain has outposts all over L.A. County, with each store offering a snapshot of casual, chic style. Browse for fetching dresses by Rag & Bone, men’s denim from J Brand and jewelry by Carbon & Hyde and Khai Khai. 8100 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.651.4129; 11677 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.207.0927; 3900 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.317.6705, ronherman.com THE ROWCL9000400166 Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen chose the upscale Melrose Place as the fitting location for their high-end brand’s first boutique. Shop the designers’ relaxed and timelessly elegant ready-to-wear, handbags and eyewear in a space that feels like a Cali-cool home. 8440 Melrose Place, L.A., 310.853.1900, therow.com SATINE BOUTIQUECL0000022257 This is one sweet boutique, with sexy and funky fashions by European designers not often seen in L.A. stores. Well-chosen pieces from A.L.C. and Moschino are present, as are the season’s most coveted shoes, including styles by Balenciaga. 8134 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.655.2142; 1508 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.6218, satineboutique.com STELLA McCARTNEY The height of fashion design is on show at this beautiful flagship boutique. McCartney’s modern sensibility and the relaxed lines of her designs contribute to the comfortable beauty of her clothes. 8823 Beverly Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.273.7051, stellamccartney.com STRANGE INVISIBLE PERFUMES Botanical perfumer Alexandra Balahoutis’ fragrances are crafted in-house from purely organic, wild-crafted, biodynamic and hydro-distilled essences.
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Visit her jewel-like boutique to select a scent from the intoxicating collection, which includes a new line inspired by the signs of the zodiac. 1138 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.314.1505, siperfumes.com SUSAN FOSTER LOS ANGELES0000022279 Boutique owner and jewelry designer Susan Foster offers a thoughtful selection of fine, designer and vintage jewels in her Brentwood boutique. Foster’s own exquisite designs, handmade with colored diamonds and rare gemstones, have graced Hollywood’s elite. 11695 San Vicente Blvd., L.A., 310.820.4244, susanfosterjewelry.com TENOVERSIXCL9000006313 Merchandise here is focused almost exclusively on those special little extras: shoes, handbags, scarves, lingerie, hats, jewelry and just about any other adornment you can imagine. The boutique stocks pieces from some 70 independent and emerging designers including Alexander Wang and VPL. 8425 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.330.9355, tenover6.com VILEBREQUINCL0000022261 Created in Saint-Tropez in 1971, Vilebrequin sets the standard for luxury resortwear and swimwear, offering unbeatable quality and unmistakable style to jet-setting men, women and kids on holiday. Additional locations can be found in Malibu Lumber Yard, Santa Monica’s Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows and Canoga Park. 9519 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.205.9087; 2231 Glendale Galleria, Glendale, 818.545.1515, vilebrequin.com WARBY PARKER Eyewear retailer to hipsters, preps and stars Warby Parker has checked into the lobby of the Standard, Hollywood, and its fashionable frames will renew your interest in prescription specs. After trying on the collection for size, customers order online using in-store tablets. Also
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WILL LEATHER GOODS Will Leather Goods peddles perfectly distressed vintage army totes and rugged scrap-leather cuffs, among other “found,” upcycled and recycled items. The products reflect a thoughtful approach to leathergoods production—not to mention a keen sense of what looks smokin’ with denim and boots. 1360 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.399.8700, willleathergoods.com WITTMORE It’s a good time to be a fashionable man in Los Angeles. Witness: Wittmore, a bright brick-and-mortar shop from the online menswear retailer known for its global brands. Levi’s Vintage Clothing, Apolis, Mollusk and Universal Works are just a few of the some three dozen top-notch lines stocked. 8236 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.9791, shopwittmore.com
GALLERIES BLUM & POE GALLERYCL0000022267 Within the walls of the Culver City Art District’s original settler and flagship gallery you'll find works by the likes of art scene all-stars Sam Durant, Sha-
PARIS DESIGNS
COHEN GALLERYCL0000022279 Specializing in vintage and contemporary photography (and photobased art) from the Americas and Europe, the Cohen Gallery opened in 1992. Proprietor Stephen Cohen also founded Artfairs Inc., which stages major fairs around the country including Photo L.A. 7354 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.937.5525, stephencohengallery.com DE RE GALLERY De Re Gallery co-founders Steph Sebbag and Marine Tanguy deftly intermingle contemporary artists from Europe, New York and Los Angeles with established masters at their new West Hollywood Design District gallery. 8920 Melrose Ave., L.A., 310.205.7959, deregallery.com GAGOSIAN GALLERYCL0000022271 The Los Angeles Times calls the venerated Gagosian Gallery, designed by architect Richard Meier, “a Mt. Olympus of the Los Angeles art world.” Bluechip artists include Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Cy Twombly and Ed Ruscha. 456 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.271.9400, gagosian.com H GALERIE MICHAELCL0000022272 Galerie Michael specializes in European paintings, drawings and original prints from the 17th century to the present, including works by Marc Chagall, Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Joan Miró. The gallery also carries works by significant painters of the Barbizon school. 224 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.273.3377, galeriemichael.com
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California Jewelry Mart • Overlooking Pershing Square • 607 South Hill Street, Suite 214 Los Angeles
H WESTIMECL0000022266 Westime specializes in top-of-the-line timepieces and offers its clientele a range of classic mechanical watches, including rare and limited-edition styles. Luxury brands offered include Bell & Ross, Harry Winston and Breitling. Its West Hollywood location employs a full-time watchmaker. 3832 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.2555; 8569 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.289.0808; 254 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.271.0000, westime.com
ron Lockhart, Jim Shaw and Takashi Murakami. The gallery celebrates art rather than entombs it, and is famed for its festive openings. 2727 S. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.836.2062, blumandpoe.com
Fine Jewelry Since 1966
find an Abbot Kinney outpost and a Glass House store-in-store inside downtown's hip Alchemy Works. 8300 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, 323.370.6690; 1422 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.280.2055; 826 E. 3rd St., downtown, 323.695.5416, warbyparker.com
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MR CHOW MALIBU 2012 Tel: 310.456.7600 Fax: 310.456.7603 3835 Cross Creek Rd. #18A Malibu, CA 90265
LONDON
BEVERLY HILLS
57TH STREET
TRIBECA
MIAMI BEACH
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Tel: +44.207.589.7347 Fax: +44.207.584.5780 151 Knightsbridge London, SW1X7PA
Tel: 310.278.9911 Fax: 310.278.4671 344 N. Camden Dr. Beverly Hills, CA 90210
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DINING L.A.’S DINING SCENE, ONE OF THE MOST EXCITING IN THE WORLD, OFFERS CALIFORNIA, ETHNIC AND GLOBAL CUISINES. SINCE THE CITY IS THE CENTER OF POPULAR CULTURE IN AMERICA, ITS DINING SCENE REFLECTS THE MOST CURRENT TRENDS.
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CHEF'S CHOICE Why settle for a single entrée? At top L.A. restaurants, diners with curious palates opt for multicourse tasting menus to experience the full range of chefs’ talents. At hot-ticket Trois Mec, chef Ludo Lefebvre creates exquisite French-inflected prix-fixe meals. Downtown, prolific chef/restaurateur Josef Centeno offers five-, eight- and even 20-plus-course “super omakase” menus at fusion spot Orsa & Winston. At nearby Alma, Food & Wine’s “Best New Chef—2014” Ari Taymor serves up an innovative 10-course menu. Meanwhile in Beverly Hills, Aussie celebrity chef Curtis Stone presents guests at Maude with a ninecourse tasting menu, showcasing a new seasonal ingredient each month. And in the SLS Beverly Hills, José Andrés’ dining room Saam offers diners a three-hour, 20-plus-course feast of tapas with cutting-edge preparations (a dish from the seasonal white-truffle menu is pictured above).
AOCCL0000022114 Mediterranean. Explore a Mediterranean-inspired menu at the eatery that pioneered two L.A. culinary trends: the small-plates format and the wine bar. Chef/owner Suzanne Goin offers addictive Parmesanstuffed dates and a selection of cheeses and cured meats from a charcuterie bar. Br (Sa-Su), L, D (daily). 8700 W. 3rd St., L.A., 310.859.9859, aocwinebar.com CECCONI’SCL9000006247 Italian. This London-based restaurant caters to a well-heeled clientele that comes to schmooze over Bellinis and cicchetti (small plates). Pastas including a butternut squash and goat-cheese tortelli, and seafood such as grilled octopus with capers are well executed. B (M-F), Br (SaSu), L, D (daily). 8764 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 310.432.2000, cecconiswesthollywood.com COOKS COUNTYCL9000400884 California. Cooks County showcases ingredients from a lengthy roster of farms, orchards and ranches, printed on the daily changing menu. Among entrées you might encounter are beautifully prepared pork chops. Pastry chef Roxana Jullapat’s soft “spretzel” is a signature dish. Br (Sa-Su), L (M-F), D (nightly). 8009 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.653.8009, cookscountyrestaurant.com GUSTOCL9000400885 Italian. Victor Casanova’s intimate neighborhood ristorante has a look and feel reminiscent of his native Bronx. Dishes such as polpette
(pork meatballs) plated over chilled, whipped ricotta, charred baby octopus and fresh-made pastas deserve praise. D (nightly). 8432 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.1778, gusto-la.com INKCL9000400886 American. Top Chef winner Michael Voltaggio showcases daring, cerebral molecular gastronomy at his first restaurant. Get a five-course tasting menu or explore the constantly changing à la carte small plates such as poutine with lambneck gravy and chickpea fries, and Brussels sprouts with pig ears and cuttlefish. D (nightly). 8360 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.651.5866, mvink.com JARCL0000022151 American. Chef Suzanne Tracht presents an L.A. take on traditional, comforting American fare in a chic interpretation of an old-school chophouse. Diners might begin with crab deviled eggs before moving on to the signature pot roast. Br (Su), D (nightly). 8225 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.655.6566, thejar.com LUCQUESCL0000022160 Mediterranean. Chef/owner Suzanne Goin delivers the next generation of California cuisine, which includes dishes such as braised short ribs with Swiss chard and horseradish cream. Nowhere do vegetables taste as good! L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly). 8474 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.655.6277, lucques.com PISTOLA0400885 Italian. 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, pistola-la.com PROVIDENCECL0000022181 Seafood. Chef/owner Michael Cimarusti transforms seafood from the world’s most pristine waters into inventive dishes such as striped bass with bacon and bordelaise sauce. Outstanding cocktails complement Michelin-recognized cuisine. L (F), D (nightly). 5955 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.460.4170, providencela.com
BEVERLY HILLS BOUCHONCL9000006246 French. The Bouchon bistros from chef Thomas Keller (the French Laundry, Per Se) have become popular for their authentic good looks and superbly executed cuisine. One might begin with salmon rillettes followed by steak frites or a croque madame. Don’t forget oysters from the raw bar or a TKO (Thomas Keller Oreo) from Bouchon Bakery, downstairs. Br (Sa-Su), L, D (daily). 235 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.271.9910, bouchonbistro.com CRUSTACEANCL002301 Vietnamese. A glass-covered koifilled stream meanders under the bar at this French-Vietnamese eatery, and diners indulge in items from a “secret kitchen” in which only the owners’ family members are allowed. The garlic noodles are a signature, and celebrity sightings are common. L (M–F), D (nightly). 9646 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.205.8990, houseofan.com CULINACL9000007069 Italian. A contemporary take on regional Italian cuisine is the theme
JILL PAIDER
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at Culina, where ample coastal inspirations are evident on the menu. The modern design includes a sleek crudo bar. B (daily), Br (Su), L (MSa), D (nightly). Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, 300 S. Doheny Drive, L.A., 310.860.4000, culinarestaurant.com CUTCL0000022131 Steak. A collaboration between Getty Center architect Richard Meier and celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, Cut is the place to savor genuine Wagyu beef steaks ($135 plus) or dry-aged Nebraska beef. Puck’s menu is short on nostalgia but long on flavor. D (M-Sa). Beverly Wilshire Hotel, 9500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.276.8500, wolfgangpuck.com ★ MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSECL0000022161 Steak. Mastro’s serves USDA Prime steaks in an atmosphere as sizzling as its 400-degree plates. Look for the 2-foot-tall seafoodtower appetizer, sides such as lobster mashed potatoes and a melt-inyour-mouth warm butter cake for dessert. D (nightly). 246 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.888.8782; 2087 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, 805.418.1811, mastrosrestaurants.com MAUDE California. Last year, L.A. Weekly named this intimate 25-seater from Curtis Stone, the Aussie celebrity chef and Top Chef Masters host, “Best New Restaurant Los Angeles.” Every month Stone breaks new ground, creating a nine-course prix-fixe menu that revolves around a different seasonal ingredient. D (Tu-Sa). 212 S. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.859.3418, mauderestaurant.com ★ MR CHOWCL0000022161 Chinese. This L.A. edition of scene-y restaurants in New York and London offers authentic Beijing cuisine. Beverly Hills: L (M-F), D (nightly). Malibu: D (nightly). 344 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills,
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310.278.9911; Malibu Country Mart, 3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.7600, mrchow.com SCARPETTA Italian. Scott Conant’s much-lauded NYC-based concept is replicated at the Montage Beverly Hills hotel. Conant is deservedly famous for dishes such as porcini-and-Tallegio ravioli with truffles as well as a simple, unbeatable spaghetti with tomato and basil. D (M-Sa). Montage Beverly Hills, 225 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.860.7970, montagebeverlyhills.com/beverly-hillsrestaurants.php
PRIME STEAKS. LEGENDARY SERVICE. Fine Wine • Private Dining • Exceptional Menu
SPAGOCL0000022190 California. More than 30 years on, Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant is still relevant on the L.A. dining scene. In a recently refreshed, modern dining room, enjoy refined service and seasonal small-plate offerings such as barbecued stingray with spicy sambal, and Santa Barbara spot prawns with suckling pig and Hachiya persimmons. Glimpse some of the 30,000-plus wine bottles on offer in a glass-ensconced “wine wall.” L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly). 176 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.385.0880, wolfgangpuck.com URASAWACL0000022195 Japanese. If you’re serious about sushi, make a date to sit at the cypress bar of Urasawa. Here, you’ll be treated to an incredible omakase dinner that features the freshest, most artfully presented sushi, sashimi and shabu-shabu dishes. D (Tu-Sa). 218 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.247.8939 WOLFGANG PUCK AT HOTEL BEL-AIRCL9000400889 Eclectic. A favorite hideaway of Hollywood elite, the Hotel Bel-Air offers an indoor-outdoor retreat helmed by the father of California cuisine, Wolfgang Puck. Cantonese roasted duck gets an L.A. twist with figs and fresh pea tendrils, while his take on Wiener schnitzel, served with a marinated fingerling potato salad, reminds diners of his
Los Angeles 735 South Figueroa St. 213-553- 4566
Burbank 3400 West Olive Ave. 818-238-0424
SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills 435 S. La Cienega Blvd. 310-246-1501
South Coast Plaza in Costa Meza 1641 W. Sunflower Ave. 714-444-4834
Woodland Hills 6250 Canoga Ave. 818-703-7272
Anaheim 1895 South Harbor Blvd. 714-621-0101
mortons.com
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LUKSHONCL0000333510 Pan-Asian. Sang Yoon, creator of one of L.A.’s best burgers at Father’s Office, changed directions by opening this slick Southeast Asian eatery. Try red crab fritters with chili jam—a twist on Singaporean chili crab—or whole seasonal fish paired with a Far East-inspired cocktail. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa). Helms Bakery, 3239 Helms Ave., Culver City, 310.202.6808, lukshon.com
SPINY LOBSTER CRUDO AT MAUDE IN BEVERLY HILLS
Austrian roots. B, D (daily), Br (Su), L (M-Sa), tea (F-Sa). 701 Stone Canyon Road, Bel-Air, 310.909.1644, hotelbelair.com/wolfgang-puck-bel-air
BRENTWOOD KATSUYACL0000022153 Japanese. Sushi chef Katsuya Uechi turns out exotic delicacies in sultry spaces by designer Philippe Starck. From its signature cocktails to king crab cooked over the robata grill to exotically flavored crème brûlées, Katsuya is never boring. Additional locations downtown and in Glendale. L (M-F), D (nightly). 11777 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.207.8744; 6300 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.871.8777, sbeent.com/katsuya SUGARFISHCL9000006267 Japanese. Kazunori Nozawa— aka the “Sushi Nazi,” chef/owner of the former Sushi Nozawa—opens casual spots offering preset menus. Tips are included, but prices are about half those at the original. Ad-
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ditional locations include those in Santa Monica and Studio City. L, D (daily). 11640 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.820.4477; Waterside at the Marina, 47221/4 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.306.6300, sugarfishsushi.com TAVERNCL9000006270 California. Chef Suzanne Goin’s third L.A. restaurant explores rustic Cal-Med fare in chic environs, including a popular indoor patio. The frequently changing menu might include “the devil’s chicken” with potatoes, braised leeks and mustard breadcrumbs, or grilled hanger steak frites with béarnaise and arugula salad. B (M-F), L, D (daily), Br (SaSu). 11648 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.806.6464, tavernla.com
CULVER CITY A-FRAMECL0000333500 Eclectic. Roy Choi, whose Kogi launched a thousand food trucks, offers a globally influenced comfortfood menu (beer-can chicken, fu-
tégé, cooks with an assertive rustic style and is known for his housemade pastas. Menashe’s wife/pastry chef, Genevieve Gergis, turns out treats such as chestnut zeppole and rice pudding topped with seasonal fruit. D (nightly). 2121 7th Place, downtown, 213.514.5724, bestiala.com
DOWNTOWN
BOTTEGA LOUIECL9000006245 Italian. This palatial Italian restaurant, decked out in minimalist white marble, is a hip, noisy hall where young professionals and downtown hipsters convene over brickoven-cooked pizzas and share small plates of portobello fries. Don’t miss the patisserie’s macarons. B, L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 700 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.802.1470, bottegalouie.com
ALMA California. Bay Area chef Ari Taymor adds fine dining to the revitalization of Broadway with his playful but sophisticated prix-fixe menus in an unpretentious space across from Ace Hotel. Freshly picked and foraged ingredients are revealed in a parade of beautiful dishes that have garnered national attention. D (Tu-Sa). 952 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.244.1422, alma-la.com
FAITH & FLOWER California. Art deco splendor meets modern farm-to-table dining at this new downtown entry. Michelinrecognized Bay Area chef Michael Hung has created an eclectic menu of wood-fired proteins and raw bar offerings amid a sumptuous setting in the restored 1920s WaterMarke Tower. Br (Sa-Su), L (M-F), D (nightly). 705 W. 9th St., downtown, 213.239.0642, faithandflowerla.com
BÄCO MERCATCL9000400890 Eclectic. Chef Josef Centeno draws international praise for his uniquely inspired creations. His bäco, a flatbread sandwich filled with ingredients such as oxtail hash or chicken escabeche, is a signature dish. Other selections include hamachi crudo and late-night fried chicken and biscuits. L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 408 S. Main St., downtown, 213.687.8808, bacomercat.com
KENDALL’S BRASSERIE & BARCL9006254 French. 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: Alsatian tarte flambée, moules frites and braised short rib Provençale. Br (Sa-Su), L (M-F), D (T-Su). Music Center, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.7322, patinagroup.com/kendallsbrasserie
BESTIA Italian. Tucked into an old factory in the burgeoning downtown Arts District, Bestia is one of the city’s toughest-to-get reservations. Chef Ori Menashe, a Gino Angelini pro-
H L.A. PRIME Steak. City views and dry-aged steaks at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel’s topfloor restaurant are sure to impress out-of-towners and dinner dates. Classic sides and starters (oysters, prawn
RAY KACHATORIAN
rikake kettle corn) enjoyed at long communal “picnic” tables or around a fire pit. Cocktails are concocted with housemade infusions and fresh juices. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 12565 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.398.7700, aframela.com
cocktail, mac and cheese) fill out the American surf-and-turf menu boasting aged, USDA-certified Prime beef from Chicago. D (nightly). Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, 404 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.624.1000, thebonaventure.com/la-prime ★ MORTON’SCL0000022197 Steak. The upscale steakhouse chain’s clubby ambiance is paired with a show-and-tell menu and huge portions. Beverly Hills, Woodland Hills: D (nightly). Downtown, Burbank: L (MF), D (nightly). 735 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.553.4566; SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills, 435 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.246.1501; 6250 Canoga Ave., Woodland Hills, 818.703.7272; 3400 W. Olive Ave., Burbank, 818.238.0424, mortons.com ORSA & WINSTON Eclectic. Chef/owner Josef Centeno draws on Japanese and Italian traditions at his third restaurant. Diners can select a five- or eight-course tasting menu or a “super omakase” menu of more than 20 courses. On the beverage list, wines from the Old World mingle with a selection of beers and sakes. D (Tu-Sa). 122 W. 4th St., downtown, 213.687.0300, orsaandwinston.com PATINACL0000022178 French. The Walt Disney Concert Hall is a lovely composition of impressive classical-music offerings and fine dining at its in-house restaurant. Patina might be the best game in town when it comes to game dishes, including an entrée of wood pigeon with yams, celeriac and pear. D (Tu-Su). 141 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.3331, patinarestaurant.com WATER GRILLCL0000022198 Seafood. L.A.’s premier seafood restaurant, remodeled and hipper than ever, is famed for its huge platters of fruits de mer from the raw bar. Lowtemperature cooking methods are used in dishes such as pan-sautéed
Chilean sea bass with herbed ricotta gnudi and brown butter, yielding sensational results. There’s no corkage fee, so why not BYOB? Downtown: L (M-F), D (nightly). Santa Monica: L, D (daily). 544 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.891.0900; 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.394.5669, watergrill.com WP24CL9000007076 Pan-Asian. From its 24th-floor roost, WP24 proves that Wolfgang Puck, who pioneered Asian fusion, still has the goods. The restaurant might offer downtown’s best skyline views. Highlights include “angry” 2-pound lobster and steamed bao buns filled with pork belly. D (M-Sa). The RitzCarlton, Los Angeles, 900 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.743.8824, ritzcarlton.com/en/properties/ losangeles
meet our other rock stars.
HOLLYWOOD ACABAR Eclectic. Octavio Becerra’s menu is influenced by French fare and the cuisines along the “spice trail.” Charred octopus is served with longaniza sausage, white beans and Valencia oranges, and the addictive "porn bread” (housemade cornbread) is packed with bits of bacon and served with a side of maplehoney butter. D (Tu-Sa). 1510 N. Stanley Ave., L.A., 323.876.1400, acabar-la.com CHI SPACCA Italian. At the latest addition to the Mozza complex, owned by Nancy Silverton, Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich, chef Chad Colby serves a family-style, beef-centric menu. The meat portions are mammoth, most notably a 50-ounce bistecca fiorentina that takes nearly an hour to cook and can stuff a party of four. D (nightly). 6610 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.1133, chispacca.com CLEOCL9000007078 Mediterranean. The SBE group’s noisy meze bar is an unquestionable
fresh creations, legendary burgers & more, cooked up live by some of the best in the business.
hollywood ®
hollywood blvd. at hollywood & highland center • +1-323-464-7625 universal citywalk • +1-818-622-7625 hardrock.com facebook: /hardrockcafehollywoodblvd • /hardrockcafecitywalk twitter: @hrchollywood • @hrccitywalk ©2012 Hard Rock Cafe International (USA), Inc. All rights reserved.
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sophisticated dining room in which to experience the repertory of these great transcontinental talents. D (nightly). 6602 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.0100, osteriamozza.com PIZZERIA MOZZACL0000333473 Italian. The other half of Nancy Silverton and Mario Batali’s Mozza, Pizzeria Mozza is a more relaxed dining experience, and it’s far easier to get a table than at its cousin, Osteria Mozza, next door. It features pizzas, salumi plates and rustic daily specials. L, D (daily). 641 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.297.0101, pizzeriamozza.com
FAITH & FLOWER IN DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES
high point of the Hollywood dining scene. Chef Danny Elmaleh’s eastern and southern Mediterranean small plates include kebabs of pork belly, corn and shrimp, wood-burned flatbreads and crispy Brussels sprouts. Cocktails are expensive but irresistible. D (nightly). The Redbury, 1717 Vine St., L.A., 323.962.1711, cleorestaurant.com DELPHINECL9000007077 French. Just off the soaring lobby of the chic W Hollywood Hotel, demure Delphine establishes a laid-back ambiance with vintage photo murals and wood-barreled ceilings. The entrées include trout meunière with sautéed shrimp and steak frites. B, L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 6250 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.798.1355, restaurantdelphine.com THE HUNGRY CATCL0000333563 Seafood. East Coast fare—crab cake Benedict, a Maine lobster roll, you-peel or they-peel shrimp—is offered in hip little spots. The Santa
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Monica restaurant has an ocean view. Cocktails are among the best in town. Hollywood: Br (Sa-Su), L (M-F), D (nightly). Santa Monica: Br (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 1535 N. Vine St., Hollywood, 323.462.2155; 100 W. Channel Road, Santa Monica, 310.459.3337, thehungrycat.com LITTLEFORK Seafood. Chef Jason Travi came to prominence cooking nuanced Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, but at Littlefork he shows off his East Coast heritage. Travi pairs his lobster roll with housemade salt-and-vinegar chips. Br (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 1600 Wilcox Ave., Hollywood, 323.465.3675, littleforkla.com OSTERIA MOZZACL0000022174 Italian. Famed L.A.-based bread maker Nancy Silverton teamed up with affable Mario Batali and restaurateur Joe Bastianich on Mozza’s group of contemporary Italian restaurants. Osteria Mozza is a more
POT Korean. Roy Choi’s buzzy new outpost in the hip Line Hotel features his exuberant interpretations of Korean classics such as mammothsize shareable hot pots, blood soups and barbecued meats. L, D (daily). 3515 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.368.3030, eatatpot.com TROIS MEC Eclectic. The holy foodie triumvirate of Ludo Lefebvre (LudoBites) and Vinny Dotolo and Jon Shook (Animal, Son of a Gun), helms one of city’s hottest restaurants 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, which changes often. D (MF). 716 N. Highland Ave., L.A., troismec.com
LA CIENEGA BOULEVARD/ RESTAURANT ROW THE BAZAAR BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS Spanish. Star chef José Andrés brings a whimsical set of Spanishstyle dining experiences to the eminently stylish SLS Hotel. Cuisine ranges from rustic fare to the experimental, contemporary creations that have made Spain a culinary leader. Tasting room Saam offers an unforgettable 20-plus-course prix-
fixe menu. D (nightly). SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills, 465 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.246.5555, thebazaar.com MATSUHISACL0000022162 Japanese. Superchef Nobu Matsuhisa’s more modest original restaurant, Matsuhisa, incorporates luxurious Western ingredients and Latin American spices. Sashimi tacos, monkfish liver pâté with caviar, and yellowtail tartare are just a few of his dazzling creations. L (M-F), D (nightly). 129 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.659.9639, nobumatsuhisa.com NOBUCL9000006261 Japanese. The glitzy restaurant of Nobu Matsuhisa attracts celebrities as well as serious foodies. An extensive menu of traditional and avantgarde 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., L.A., 310.657.5711; Nobu Malibu, 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.9140, noburestaurants.com
MALIBU DUKE’S MALIBUCL0000022134 Seafood. Named after the father of international surfing, Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, this oceanfront restaurant captures the spirit of aloha. Not to be outshone by the spectacular views is the cuisine, which features a daily selection of fresh fish and tropical cocktails. Br (Su), L (TuSa), D (nightly). 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.0777, dukesmalibu.com ★ MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB CL0000022134 Steak. At this on-the-waterfront eatery—the views are pure Malibu— starters such as ahi tuna tartare, lobster cocktail and caviar are followed by fresh fish, whole Maine lobster or expertly prepared steaks.
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Such sides as lobster mashed potatoes and Alaskan king crab black truffle gnocchi are legendary. Br (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.454.4357, mastrosrestaurants.com
PASADENA H ARROYO CHOPHOUSE0000333530 Steak. Find USDA Prime cuts, fresh seafood and housemade desserts at this handsome, woodclad steakhouse from the Smith Brothers. The Pasadena favorite is popular for business and specialoccasion dinners and after-work cocktails. D (nightly). 536 S. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena, 626.577.7463, arroyochophouse.com H PARKWAY GRILLCL0000333530 California. The attractive, brickclad dining room offers some of Pasadena’s best meals. The diverse, globally inspired dinner menu includes ginger-fried catfish with cucumber-mint relish, and prosciutto-and-arugula pizza. L (M-F), D (nightly). 510 S. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena, 626.795.1001, theparkwaygrill.com H SECOCL0000333530 American. Enjoy New American cuisine, plus wine, beer and crafted cocktails, in this new addition to the Smith Brothers restaurant family. You can dine in the contemporary interior or on the outdoor patio, which features an inviting fire pit. L, D (daily). 140 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena, 626.449.9900, seconewamerican.com H SMITTY’S GRILL American. Soul-warming American classics and a great selection of wines by the glass round out the menu at this popular spot. Marketfresh fish, braised short ribs, ironskillet corn bread and homemade chicken pot pie are favorites. L (M-F), D (nightly). 110 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena, 626.792.9999, smittysgrill.com
UNION0000333530 Italian. This intimate restaurant from chef Bruce Kalman is a new Old Pasadena favorite. Kalman's seasonally Californian interpretation of northern Italian cuisine results in such simple but exquisite starters as Black Mission figs with housemade ricotta, honey and rosemary. Save room for equally unforgettable pasta dishes, including a squid-ink garganelli with lobster, fennel, Meyer lemon and truffle butter. D (nightly). 37 E. Union St., Pasadena, 626.795.5841, unionpasadena.com
SANTA MONICA
Winner Top 10 Best Italian Restaurant in L.A.! -Citysearch
EST. 1978
PRIX FIXE MENU Start your week off right with a delicious, 3-course dinner at a great price. Monday thru Wednesday | 4:00-Close | $16 per person
BORDER GRILLCL900624 Mexican. At Border Grill, chefsGuestBookad11-18-11.pdf 1 11/8/13 1:59 PM WINE-DOWN WEEKENDS Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Half price bottles of select wines all day Friday thru Sunday! Feniger combine their unabashed Wine-Down and relax at Louise’s… love for Mexico’s market vendors RESTRICTIONS APPLY. SEE YOUR SERVER FOR DETAILS. and taco stands. The result: bold, fresh and innovative Mexican cuisine that makes this colorful cantina WEST L.A. | LARCHMONT VILLAGE | SANTA MONICA a perennial favorite. A new outpost (877) LOUISES DINE-IN • TAKE OUT • DELIVERY LOUISES.COM that also offers breakfast can be found at LAX's Tom Bradley International Terminal. Br (Sa-Su), L, D (daily). 1445 4th St., Santa Monica, 310.451.1655; 445 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.486.5171, bordergrill.com Tony P's serves up the finest in steaks, JOSIECL0000022152 seafood, pastas American. This inviting restaurant and more in a is dignified without being pretencomfortable setting tious. Chef/owner Josie Le Balch’s overlooking beautiful talents with game (think: woodMarina del Rey. grilled quail wrapped in bacon) are renowned. Other options include Open for breakfast “campfire trout,” cooked in a castevery weekend at iron skillet. D (Tu-Su). 2424 Pico 9:00 am. Voted Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.581.9888, “Favorite Breakfast” josierestaurant.com and the “Best Bloody Mary” on the MÉLISSECL0000022163 Westside. Also join French. At Mélisse, consistently us for our “Happiest among L.A.’s highest-rated restauof Happy Hours!” rants, chef/owner Josiah Citrin executes a sophisticated modern French menu filled with luxe ingredients. Start with a bit of tender Wagyu beef tartare flavored with a smoked tomato emulsion before superb game dishes
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beachfront cottage, and the menu is loaded with East Coast inspirations as well as some innovative dishes. Among the old-school options are New England-style clam chowder and Maryland blue crab cakes. L, D (daily). 1148 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.893.6299, eatfwd.com M.B. POSTCL0000333507 American. David LeFevre, a Charlie Trotter protégé, left formal Water Grill to open this laid-back eatery with intelligently conceived small plates at reasonable prices. The “Eat Your Vegetables” menu makes green beans and Brussels sprouts look downright tantalizing, and the trufflehoney fried chicken arrives with kohlrabi slaw. Br (F-Su), D (nightly). 1142 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5405, eatmbpost.com A NOODLE BOWL AT POT IN KOREATOWN
and selections from a nonpareil cheese cart. D (Tu-Sa). 1104 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.395.0881, melisse.com RUSTIC CANYONCL9000006265 California. Discover boutique wines while sampling small plates of marketdriven, Cal-Med dishes. Executive chef Jeremy Fox (of the former Ubuntu in Napa) has breathed new life into the venue. Radicchio salad, ricotta dumplings and chickpea stew are just a few of the winners. D (nightly). 1119 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.393.7050, rusticcanyonwinebar.com TAR & ROSESCL9000400893 American. Ex-Wilshire Restaurant chef Andrew Kirschner’s first restaurant focuses on small, rustic shareable plates cooked in his wood-burning oven, but with a few days’ notice he can also whip up large, lavish familystyle suppers of Moroccan-spiced goat or standing rib rack. D (nightly). 602 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.587.0700, tarandroses.com
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perseasonal” California fare takes center stage. Former Top Chef contestant C.J. Jacobson serves his octopus salad with long-roasted eggplant and sweet-and-sour chili; an entrée of whole fried red snapper—served head on, naturally—makes a splash. Br (Su), D (nightly). 11334 Moorpark St., Studio City, 818.924.2323, girasolrestaurant.com SADDLE PEAK LODGECL0000022184 American. Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, this huntinglodge-themed spot is a study in romantic rusticity, with moose heads overlooking candlelit tables. The menu focuses on game dishes such as seared New Zealand elk tenderloin or braised buffalo short ribs. Br (Su), D (W-Su). 419 Cold Canyon Road, Calabasas, 818.222.3888, saddlepeaklodge.com
MAR’SELCL0000333528 California. Set above sparkling Palos Verdes Peninsula, Mar’sel at Terranea Resort captures an incredible ocean vista. Chef Charles Olalia infuses the seasonal menu with flavors inspired by his Filipino heritage, sourcing ingredients locally from the Pacific and picked from on-site gardens. Br (Su), D (nightly). Terranea Resort, 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, 310.265.2836, terranea.com/marsel
VENICE
WILSHIRE RESTAURANTCL9000006273 California. The woodsy, romantic deck is a coveted canoodling spot; the candle-laden bar inside is one of the Westside’s hottest. Marketdriven fare includes a roasted half chicken with apple-walnut stuffing, and miso black cod. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 2454 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.586.1707, wilshirerestaurant.com
THE STRAND HOUSECL0000333505 American. This restaurant serves awesome ocean views and sophisticated cuisine. Housemade charcuterie precedes dishes such as wild-boarsausage pizza and pork chop with gnocchi and plums. Caramel doughnuts end the meal with a bang. Br (Sa-Su), L (Tu-F), D (nightly). 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.7470, thestrandhousemb.com
SUPERBA SNACK BARCL9000400895 Italian. At Paul Hibler’s pastaria, housemade noodles are given the utmost attention, occasionally smoked and infused for maximum flavor. The wine list emphasizes California labels, and beer- and wine-based cocktails are available. Br (Sa-Su), L (F), D (nightly). 533 Rose Ave., Venice, 310.907.5075, superbasnackbar.com
SOUTH BAY
VALLEY
FISHING WITH DYNAMITE Seafood. Chef David LeFevre’s eatery has the nostalgic ambiance of a
GIRASOL California. Against a stunning Gulla Jonsdottir-designed backdrop, “hy-
VALENTINOCL0000022196 Italian. For more than 40 years, Piero Selvaggio has maintained his flagship’s status as a preeminent temple of Italian gastronomy. A telephonebook-sized wine list—often cited as America’s best—is supported by a cellar containing more than 100,000 bottles. L (F), D (Tu-Sa). 3115 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.829.4313, valentinosantamonica.com
GJELINACL9000006250 California. Under the direction of talented young chef Travis Lett, hipster servers in T-shirts and newsboy caps deliver seasonal Cal-Med small plates and pizzas to chic Westsiders. It’s one of Venice’s most popular restaurants, and the neighborhood’s most lively patio. B (M-F), Br (SaSu), L, D (daily). 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1429, gjelina.com
THE TASTING KITCHENCL0000333516 Eclectic. Hipster foodies flock to this loud but lovely dining room for a daily changing menu of innovative yet unpretentious cuisine: small or
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large plates of cured meats, a selection of artisan cheeses, vegetables, seafood and pastas, including a pappardelle with lobster and smoked roe. Br (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 1633 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.392.6644, thetastingkitchen.com
WEST HOLLYWOOD/ MIDTOWN EVELEIGHCL9000400897 American. With a menu chockablock with farm-fresh veggies and meats, and a country-chic space, Eveleigh projects an image of cool rusticity. The kitchen endeavors to use housemade ingredients in both its dishes and cocktails. Br (Sa-Su), L (F), D (nightly). 8752 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 424.239.1630, theeveleigh.com
COURTESY RÉPUBLIQUE. OPPOSITE: RICK POON
GORDON RAMSAY AT THE LONDON WEST HOLLYWOOD6252 Eclectic. The tyrant from TV’s Hell’s Kitchen arrives in L.A. to demonstrate why he has racked up more than a dozen Michelin stars. The restaurant is a hip setting in which to enjoy eclectically inspired dishes such as marrow toast and char-grilled Spanish octopus. D (nightly). The London West Hollywood, 1020 N. San Vicente Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.358.7788, thelondonwesthollywood.com PETROSSIANCL0000333694 French. Chef Giselle Wellman works with the brand’s signature caviar in creative ways. Highlights include caviar-and-roe-topped blinis and vanilla panna cotta with espresso "caviar." An on-site boutique offers caviar, smoked fish, chocolates and wines. B, L (daily), D (M-Sa). 321 N. Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.271.6300, petrossian.com RAY’S & STARK BARCL0000333512 Mediterranean. This restaurant/ cocktail bar is almost too good to be hidden in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art campus. Executive
chef Viet Pham capitalizes on the restaurant’s garden, located on the campus, as well as local farms to create the dishes on his eclectic menu. Br (Sa-Su), L (M-F), D (nightly). Bar closed Wednesdays. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6180, raysandstarkbar.com RÉPUBLIQUE American. Classically trained chef/ owner Walter Manzke offers his take on bistro classics in a cavernous space (formerly Mark Peel’s Campanile) that blends rustic Provençal touches with a slick hipster vibe. Manzke’s wife, Margarita, helms the exceptional pastry menu. B, L (daily), D (M-Sa). 624 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 310.362.6115, republiquela.com SON OF A GUNCL0000333513 Seafood. Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, the meat-loving chefs at Animal, turn to the sea for inspiration. They cook up small shareable plates such as smoked steelhead trout roe with maple cream, miniature lobster rolls and shrimp toast sandwiches with Srirachaspiked mayo in a nautically themed space. L (M-F), D (nightly). 8370 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.9033, sonofagunrestaurant.com
WESTSIDE CRAFTCL0000022129 American. New York chef Tom Colicchio of TV’s Top Chef brings his signature concept to L.A. Craft delivers an endless, contemporary American à la carte menu, with fun, shareable dishes including roasted octopus with garnet yams, and sunchoke risotto. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 10100 Constellation Blvd., L.A., 310.279.4180, craftrestaurant.com HINOKI & THE BIRD Eclectic. Enjoy Japanese and Southeast Asian flavors in a decidedly hip environment inside luxury residential tower the Century. The lobster roll is infused with green
RÉPUBLIQUE ON SOUTH LA BREA AVENUE
curry and accented with Thai basil, while an entrée of black cod is scented with the smoke of the namesake hinoki wood. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa). 10 Century Drive, L.A., 310.552.1200, hinokiandthebird.com H PAPARAZZI RISTORANTE93 Italian. Enjoy classic Italian cuisine with culinary twists at this sophisticated ristorante and chophouse just blocks from LAX at the Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel. The menu boasts top-quality steaks, fresh seafood and pastas in authentic sauces, while the decor serves up a modern take on old Hollywood glamour. D (M-Sa). 6101 W. Century Blvd., L.A., 310.642.4820, sheratonlax.com/paparazzi SOTTOCL9000400899 Italian. Chefs and co-owners Zach Pollack and Steve Samson dish up beautifully executed rustic trattoria specialties and Neapolitan piz-
zas cooked in a wood-burning oven. Great ingredients elevate a traditional margherita pie, and the guanciale pizza is layered with house-cured pork cheek, ricotta and scallions, and can be topped with a soft egg if you desire. Intriguing pastas include squid-inkinfused chitarra with bottarga, chilis and breadcrumbs. D (nightly). 9575 W. Pico Blvd., L.A., 310.277.0210, sottorestaurant.com H TONY P’S DOCKSIDE GRILLCL0000022193 American. Tony P’s serves generous portions of fine steaks, seafood and pastas in a comfortable waterfront space. Alaskan king crab is among the most popular dishes. Settle into the sports bar, Tony P’s Tavern, to watch the game with a cold one. B (Sa-Su), L, D (daily). 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.823.4534, tonyps.com
FOR MORE TO EXPLORE, SEE WHERE LOS ANGELES MAGAZINE AND DOWNLOAD THE WHERE TRAVELER CITY GUIDE APP
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L.A. PRIME
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
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 wet-aged prime beef steaks, as well as beautiful lamb chops, veal Oscar and fresh fish and shellfish. Dishes are enhanced with local produce and paired with wines from an award-winning list recognized by Wine Spectator. Our award-winning 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 thebonaventure.com
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PAPARAZZI RISTORANTE
MENU HIGHLIGHTS Starters Cocomero & pomoderi Little gem Caesar salad Burrata cheese and heirloom tomatoes
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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ARROYO CHOP HOUSE
PARKWAY GRILL
The Smith Brothers’ modern take on the classic American steakhouse, Arroyo Chop House, serves exclusively USDA Prime beef. This strikingly handsome restaurant, inspired by the Arts and Crafts architectural style for which Pasadena is famous, is clad in rich mahogany, and the cozy booths are bathed in seductive light. The prime steaks are aged and hand-cut daily and perfectly seared in a 500-degree broiler. The restaurant also offers live Maine lobster, fresh seafood, Alaskan king crab legs, fresh oysters and shrimp. Complement your meal with a bottle from the award-winning wine list (Wine Spectator Award of Excellence) or enjoy one of the many premium single-malt scotches. Reservations suggested. Piano music nightly. D (nightly).
The Smith Brothers’ trend-setter in innovative regional American cuisine, Parkway Grill specializes in a seasonal, market-driven approach to cooking that incorporates diverse influences and classic French technique. It has been acclaimed as one of America’s top tables by Gourmet magazine and one of the top 35 most popular restaurants in Southern California by Zagat. Throughout its 30 years, Parkway Grill has showcased an intriguing array of dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Demonstrating the ultimate commitment to fresh produce, Parkway Grill planted its own organic vegetable and herb garden behind the restaurant, which continues to thrive in the heart of Pasadena. Recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, the wine list features selections from many of California’s finest small producers. Reservations suggested. Piano music Monday through Saturday evenings. L (M–F), D (nightly).
536 S. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena
510 S. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena
626.577.7463
626.795.1001
arroyochophouse.com
theparkwaygrill.com
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SECO
SMITTY’S GRILL
Enjoy fine New American cuisine, a vibrant, contemporary environment and complimentary valet parking at Seco, the Smith Brothers’ newest restaurant. James Beard Foundation Award-nominated chef Mark Peel created the diverse menu, which features such tantalizing dishes as wood ovenroasted chicken, wood-fired pizzas, steak frites and salads, all composed of seasonal and sustainable ingredients and accented with fresh herbs and spices. Cozy up to the fire pit on the outdoor patio, or dine in the atmospheric modern dining room. Guests seeking a lively atmosphere will find it at the bar and lounge, where fine wine, craft beer and signature cocktails are served alongside a bar menu during the daily social hour. Recommended as “Great for Lunch” and “Outdoor Dining” by OpenTable voters, this new spot offers something to everyone. L, D (daily).
With Smitty’s Grill, the Smith Brothers bring you American comfort food at its best. Set in a clubby grill atmosphere with vintage photos depicting Hollywood glamour, Smitty’s offers familiar all-American dishes. “Smitty’s is a fine place in which to rediscover a cuisine that many of us have forgotten: our own. It is truly America the scrumptious,” says Merrill Schindler of Zagat. The menu features iron-skillet cornbread, filet mignon, homemade chicken pot pie, rattlesnake BBQ baby back ribs, Smitty’s famous meatloaf and more. The dining experience also features a stocked top-shelf bar and an extensive, award-winning wine list (Wine Spectator Award of Excellence). Reservations suggested. L (M–F), D (nightly).
140 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
110 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
626.449.9900
626.792.9999
seconewamerican.com
smittysgrill.com
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THE FINEST PRIME STEAKS • THE FRESHEST SEAFOOD • EXQUISITE WINES GENUINE SERVICE • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT 7 NIGHTS A WEEK • PRIVATE DINING
Beverly Hills • Thousand Oaks • Malibu •
246 NORTH CANON DR.
•
310.888.8782
2087 EAST THOUSAND OAKS BLVD.
18412 PACIFIC COAST HWY.
•
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MastrosRestaurants •
805.418.1811
310.454.4357
ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS: 3 Locations in SCOTTSDALE, AZ LAS VEGAS, NV NEWPORT BEACH, CA COSTA MESA, CA CHICAGO, IL NEW YORK, NY WASHINGTON, D.C. Opening 2015
www.MastrosRestaurants.com •
•
PALM DESERT, CA
@MastrosOfficial
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play time
COURTESY WALLIS ANNENBERG CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
ATTRACTIONS THEME PARKS, STUDIO TOURS, RECREATIONAL PURSUITS, MUSEUMS, CONCERT HALLS, STARGAZING AND SPOTS OF HISTORICAL INTEREST: THEY’RE ALL HERE.
W H E R E G U E S T B O O K 1 1 3
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ATTRACTIONS
THE RESNICK PAVILION AT LACMA
LACMA'S GOLDEN AGE 2015 marks 50 years since the Los Angeles County Museum of Art opened to the public in its Wilshire Boulevard location. Today, it's the largest art museum on the West Coast (and ever expanding), boasting a collection that includes more than 120,000 objects dating from antiquity to the present, including such contemporary works as Michael Heizer’s Levitated Mass and Chris Burden’s now-iconic installation Urban Light. And the museum has even more reason to celebrate: Last year, it announced a promised gift of art—the largest in its history—from collector Jerry Perenchio (contingent on the completion of a new Peter Zumthor-designed building). This
AUTRY NATIONAL CENTER The merger of the Southwest Museum of the American Indian, the Museum of the American West and the Women of the West Museum has created the Autry National Center, named for performer Gene Autry. Programs explore the stories of cultures and examine how their interaction has affected the history of the American West. 4700 Western Heritage Way, L.A., 323.667.2000, theautry.org ★ CALIFORNIA AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUMCL0000022308 This institution celebrating African American art, culture and history includes exhibition galleries plus a courtyard, conference center and research library. In addition to ongoing exhibitions, see rotating special exhibitions such as Lookin’ Back in Front of Me: Selected Works of Mark Steven Greenfield, 1974-2014. 600 State Drive, Exposition Park, L.A., 213.744.7432, caamuseum.org
spring, LACMA will exhibit a small selection of that bequest, which includes masterpieces by Picasso, Magritte and the museum’s first painting by Manet, alongside several other promised works. It's a golden anniversary, indeed.
★ CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER Fun, informative, interactive exhibits showcase innovation and invention, biology and air and space engineering. The Imax theater offers education with thrills. The science center is the permanent home of re-
tired NASA space shuttle Endeavour. 700 Exposition Park Drive, Exposition Park, L.A., 323.724.3623, californiasciencecenter.org DESCANSO GARDENS Collections include coast live oaks, roses, an award-winning camellia garden and the new Oak Woodland, the first new addition to Descanso Gardens in 30 years. Enjoy familyfriendly festivals, performances, classes and activities for children, and explore the renovated Boddy House estate and the Sturt Haaga Gallery. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, 818.949.4200, descansogardens.org DISNEYLAND “The happiest place on Earth,” which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, is home to Mickey Mouse and eight fantastic “lands.” Highlights include the updated Alice in Wonderland, Space Mountain, Innoventions, the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, Fantasmic! and a fireworks show that somehow always outdoes itself. 1313 Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.781.4565, disneyland.com DISNEY’S CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE Disneyland’s state-themed counterpart offers lands based on Hollywood, beach culture and the Gold Rush. The World of Color is a spectacular water, light and sound attraction. Other highlights: Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, the Little Mermaid—Ariel’s Undersea Adventure and the Pixar-film-inspired Cars Land. 1313 Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714.781.4565, disneyland.com DODGER STADIUMC Since 1962, more than 125 million fans have watched the Los Angeles
Dodgers play baseball at Dodger Stadium. Spectators are awed by a breathtaking view of downtown, green, tree-lined Elysian hills and the San Gabriel Mountains. 1000 Elysian Park Ave., downtown, 866.363.4377, ladodgers.com DOLBY THEATRECL0000022328 The home of the Academy Awards, formerly the Kodak Theatre, has also been host to a range of musical artists and notable TV and awards events. Guided tours, offered daily, give visitors architectural and historical highlights and an insider’s look at the Oscars ceremony. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.308.6300, dolbytheatre.com EL CAPITAN THEATRECL0000022316 The venue debuted in 1926 as a theatrical stage, graced by such stars as Clark Gable. In 1941, Citizen Kane had its world premiere at El Capitan. Now, as an exclusive first-run theater for Walt Disney Pictures, it hosts live stage shows and world premieres. 6838 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.7674, elcapitan.go.com EL PUEBLO DE LOS ANGELES El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument is the oldest section of Los Angeles, with 27 historic buildings clustered around an old plaza. Olvera Street (Alameda Street between Main and Los Angeles streets) is a festive open-air Mexican marketplace with restaurants and shops. 125 Paseo de la Plaza, downtown, 213.628.1274, elpueblo.lacity.org ★ FARMERS MARKET What started in the summer of 1934 as a farmers market with produce sold from truck tailgates has become an L.A. institution, with more than 100
COURTESY LACMA
ATTRACTIONS ★ AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFICCL0000022306 Journey through ocean climates of sunny Southern California and Baja, the frigid waters of the north Pacific and the reefs of the tropical Pacific, and meet more than 11,000 marine animals. Touch the ocean’s predators in Shark Lagoon, or greet tuxedoed birds in the June Keyes Penguin Habitat. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100, aquariumofpacific.org
★ STARRED LISTINGS ARE FEATURED GUESTBOOK ADVERTISERS. 114
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restaurants; produce, butcher and retail stalls; international gift shops; and even a couple of bars. 6333 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.933.9211, farmersmarketla.com GRAND CENTRAL MARKET See and taste L.A.’s international influences at the city’s oldest and largest open-air market, in business since 1917. 30-plus merchants offer delicacies from around the world. Stands offer pupusas, Cuban sandwiches, tacos and other global choices. A recent renovation added foodie-centric new vendors such as Valerie Confections and Wexler’s Deli. 317 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.624.2378, grandcentralmarket.com
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is home to more than 1,100 animals representing 250 different species, many of which are rare or endangered. Our beautiful 113 acres also offer a carousel, play park, and Safari Shuttle. Conveniently located in Griffith Park where the I-5 and 134 freeways meet. Plan your visit at www.LAZoo.org.
*Except Christmas Day
L.A., BEST SEEN FROM THE WATER Dinner Cruises, Champagne Brunch Cruises, and Sunset Cocktail Cruises in Marina del Rey and Newport Beach
HORNBLOWER.COM • 855-559-3571 NEWPORT BEACH • MARINA DEL REY • LONG BEACH • SAN DIEGO • SAN FRANCISCO • BERKELEY • NEW YORK
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GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY The most visited public observatory in the world reopened in 2006 after a $93 million renovation. The Big Picture is the largest (150 feet long and 20 feet high!) astronomically accurate image ever produced; the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon theater seats 200. 2800 E. Observatory Road, L.A., 213.473.0800, griffithobservatory.org GRIFFITH PARK With more than 4,210 acres of natural terrain and landscaped parkland, Griffith Park is the country’s largest municipal park. Highlights include the Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, Autry National Center, Travel Town, the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Greek Theatre, hiking trails and horseback riding. 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, L.A., 323.913.4688, laparks.org/ dos/parks/griffithpk ★ HOLLYWOOD MUSEUM Located in the historic Max Factor Building, just 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. 1660 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.464.7776, thehollywoodmuseum.com HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME Terrazzo and brass stars line the sidewalks and offer a history of the Hollywood entertainment industry, honoring those who have made significant contributions in radio, television, motion pictures, recording and live performance. 2015 honorees include Will Ferrell, Jennifer Garner, Kristin Chenoweth and the late Raymond Chandler. Hollywood Boulevard from Gower Street to La Brea Avenue, and Vine Street from Yucca Street to Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood, 323.469.8311, hollywoodchamber.net ★ HORNBLOWER CRUISES & EVENTS Dine aboard a luxury yacht on one of Hornblower’s relaxing cruises. Take in beautiful harbor views while you feast, then dance under the stars on the outdoor deck. Choose from dinner or Champagne brunch options. Fisherman’s Village, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, 855.559.3571, hornblower.com KNOTT’S BERRY FARM A top-notch collection of roller coasters at “America’s first theme park” includes Boomerang, Silver Bullet, Sierra Sidewinder and Pony Express. Camp Snoopy is for the younger kids. During Halloween season, the park is transformed into Knott’s Scary Farm. Adjacent Soak City Water Park is open in summer. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.220.5200, knotts.com L.A. COUNTY ARBORETUM & BOTANIC GARDEN The 127-acre site represents a diverse world of plant life and is known for its peafowl, which roam the grounds and perch in trees. The Queen Anne Cottage and “Lucky” Baldwin’s coach barn are among the historic buildings open for tours. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, 626.821.3222, arboretum.org
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NOW FEATURING
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BATMAN EXHIBIT
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www.museumoftolerance.com
©Anne Frank Fonds Base l founded by Otto Frank
9786 west pico boulevard los angeles, ca 90035 t: 310.772.2506
L.A. LIVECL0000333415 L.A. Live is a bustling sports, dining and entertainment center. Staples Center hosts sporting events and concerts, and Nokia Theatre L.A. Live and Club Nokia feature pop acts. You’ll also find bowling alley Lucky Strike Lanes and music and Grammy Award history at the Grammy Museum. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.763.5483, lalive.com ★ LOS ANGELES ZOO AND BOTANICAL GARDENS The L.A. Zoo is home to more than 800 plants species and 1,100 animals representing 250 different species, many of which are rare or endangered. Don't miss the new Rainforest of the Americas exhibit, where you can meet giant river otters, the Goliath bird-eating spider and more. 5333 Zoo Drive, L.A., 323.644.4200, lazoo.org ★ MUSEUM OF TOLERANCECL0000022332 The Museum of Tolerance hosts powerful exhibits on the Holocaust and such subjects as human rights, intolerance, immigration and family. New exhibitions include Anne, about the life and legacy of Anne Frank. Simon Wiesenthal Plaza, 9786 W. Pico Blvd., L.A., 310.772.2506, museumoftolerance.com
C
ome to the Aquarium of the Pacific where you and your family can get in touch with nature and marine life, any time you want. Touch sharks. Feed lorikeet birds. Watch penguins play. Over 11,000 animals await you.
aquariumofpacific.org 562 . 590 . 3100 100 AQUARIUM WAY, LONG BEACH, CA 90802
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MUSIC CENTER Four of the city’s most revered performing-arts venues are here: the Ahmanson Theatre, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Mark Taper Forum and Walt Disney Concert Hall. Resident companies present theater, opera, philharmonic and choral music. A
free audio tour of the concert hall is available, as are tours of all of the venues. 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.7211, musiccenter.org ★ NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY00022308 The largest natural and historical museum in the western United States safeguards more than 35 million diverse specimens and artifacts. The historic building holds the largest collection of gold in the U.S., a kidfriendly Discovery Center and a Dinosaur Hall. 900 Exposition Blvd., Exposition Park, L.A., 213.763.3466, nhm.org
© TRACIE SPENCE PHOTOGRAPHY
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MUSEUM OF TOLERANCE
★ L.A. DISCOVERY TOURSCL9000 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. Sister company Malibu Discovery specializes in luxury tasting tours of area wineries, including its popular Malibu Wine Trail Tour. 310.393.6555, ladiscoverytours.com
OCEAN FRONT WALK See dancers, musicians, skaters, vendors, preachers and artists in virtually every medium along this bustling boardwalk lining Venice Beach. The famed Muscle Beach is also here. Between Rose Avenue and West Washington Boulevard, Venice OLVERA STREET The colorful village features 27 historic buildings with a traditional Mexican-style plaza. Shop for souvenirs including handcrafted wares typical of old Mexico. Stop for taquitos or tacos at the outdoor cafés, or enjoy traditional Mexican cuisine such as enchiladas and mole. Free tours are led by Las Angelitas docents. 845 N. Alameda St., downtown, olvera-street.com QUEEN MARY Guided and self-guided tours allow a view of the historic (and allegedly haunted) hotel and ocean liner, which is permanently berthed in Long Beach Harbor. Enjoy a meal, shop and even spend the night in an original stateroom. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 877.342.0738, queenmary.com RONALD REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM Galleries and media provide highlights of Ronald Wilson Reagan’s
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Join us at Exposition Park, the crossroads of the Los Angeles community!
© TRACIE SPENCE PHOTOGRAPHY
California Science Center Embark on a journey of discovery as you explore over 150 interactive exhibits in our galleries including the newest addition to our collection of space artifacts – the Space Shuttle Endeavour. Your Science Center journey will take you into space, below the oceans, into the processes of all living things and lastly an exploration of the world we built. Admission to our permanent galleries is FREE not including IMAX and specially ticketed exhibitions. We are located in beautiful Exposition Park, just south of downtown. For information visit californiasciencecenter.org
700 Exposition Park Drive Los Angeles, CA 90037 323.SCIENCE (724.3623) californiasciencecenter.org
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Discover 4.5 billion years of history under one roof at the largest natural history museum in the Western United States. NHM features grand mammal dioramas, rare dinosaur fossils, a spectacular gem hall and exhibits of pre-Columbian and California history. Explore natural landscapes of Africa and North America, a rainforest, distant cultures of the Aztec, Inca and Maya, and tour new permanent exhibits such as Age of Mammals and the Dinosaur Hall, one of the best dinosaur exhibits in the world. Each week find activities for children, families and adults that inspire wonder, discovery and responsibility for our natural and cultural worlds. 900 Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007 213.763.DINO (3466) nhm.org
California African American Museum CAAM is where art, history and culture come alive! Enjoy the visual experience of contemporary art and historical exhibitions, and participate in discussions, workshops and programs for all ages. Find an array of exhibitions, including The Legacy of The Golden State Mutual Life Insurance Company: More Than a Business, Curvature: Lines and Shapes, Visibly Invisible, Lookin’ Back in Front of Me: Selected Works of Mark Steven Greenfield, 1974 – 2014, CAAM Courtyard Series: From Women’s Hands, and Light Catchers. CAAM hosts live performances with Target Sundays at CAAM. CAAM is located in Exposition Park and is always FREE! At CAAM you can interpret yesterday, explore today, and envision the future! Find CAAM on Facebook and Twitter at CAAMinLA. 600 State Drive Los Angeles, CA 90037 213.744.7432 caamuseum.org
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life from childhood to the opening of the library and museum that bear his name. The Air Force One Pavilion houses the world’s only “flying White House” available for public viewing. 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, 800.410.8354, reaganfoundation.org SAN ANTONIO WINERYCL900720 A visit to this family-run winery—a nearly century-old landmark and one of California’s largest producers—is an education in viticulture. Tour the winery, taste the latest vintages and feast on Italian specialties in its restaurant, Maddalena. 737 Lamar St., L.A., 323.223.1401, sanantoniowinery.com
WELCOME TO KOALAFORNIA THE NEW AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK. sandiegozoo.org/koalafornia
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SANTA CATALINA ISLANDCL0000022311 Snorkel, kayak or tour the west side of this small island where buffalo run wild. Enjoy the ocean air at a number of seaside cafés and shops, or get pampered at new Island Spa Catalina. The island can be reached by ferries departing from Long Beach and San Pedro. 310.510.1520, catalinachamber.com
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MONICA MOUNTAINS NATIONAL RECREATIONAL AREA Flowers bloom on the hillsides here year-round, and the climate and topography help create a diversity of vegetation that provides the habitat for 50 mammal, 400 bird and nearly a score of reptile and amphibian species. It’s a great place for hikers, horseback riders and bird-watchers. 401 W. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks, 805.370.2301, nps.gov/samo SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN This popular theme park has 18 roller coasters, including Green Lantern: First Flight and the world’s tallest, fastest and longest flying coaster, Tatsu. Twisted Colossus, an update of the iconic wooden rollercoaster, opens this year. The Hurricane Harbor water park, open seasonally, is adjacent. 26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia, 661.255.4111, sixflags.com/magicmountain
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SONY PICTURES STUDIOSCL0000022348 Sony Pictures Studios celebrates Hollywood’s glory days and offers an insider’s view of a working motion picture studio. As guides lead a walking tour through the studio lot, they illuminate the film and TV production process and share tales of Hollywood legends. 10202 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.244.8687, sonypicturesstudiostours.com STAPLES CENTERCL0000022349 This state-of-the-art sports arena is home to beloved L.A. sports teams: The Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Clippers and the Los Angeles Kings all play here. The venue also hosts concerts by music’s biggest touring acts, such as Miley Cyrus, Cher and Taylor Swift. 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.742.7340, staplescenter.com h STARLINE TOURSCL9000006387 Hollywood’s largest celebrity tour company offers its famous Movie Stars’ Homes tours throughout the day. Its broad repertoire also includes sightseeing tours to movie locations, beaches, theme parks and San Diego. The CitySightseeing doubledecker hop-on hop-off tour has 70 stops around L.A. 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 800.959.3131, starlinetours.com TCL CHINESE THEATRE Built by master showman Sid Grauman, the theater—opened in 1927, declared a historical landmark in 1968 and recently renovated—is still a popular location for celebritypacked studio premieres. The concrete handprints and footprints in the forecourt have immortalized some of Hollywood’s brightest stars. 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.461.3331, tclchinesetheatres.com h TMZ HOLLYWOOD TOUR Starline Tours’ fastest-growing option, the TMZ Hollywood Tour, hits celebrity-related landmarks and sites of scandals, from the Kar-
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dashian sisters’ store, Dash, to the the fast-food joint where Brad Pitt once worked. The tour regularly encounters celebrities who are happy to interact with guests. Tours daily. 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 855.486.9868, tmztour.com UNIVERSAL CITYWALKCL0000022351 The dining and shopping promenade adjacent to Universal Studios features more than 65 entertainment-themed restaurants, clubs, shops and movie theaters. Enjoy massive pasta dishes at Buca di Beppo or see a film on a floor-to-ceiling Imax screen at the AMC theater. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.4455, citywalkhollywood.com h UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOODCL0000022350 The world’s biggest motion picture/ TV studio features rides, shows and a behind-the-scenes studio tour. The VIP Experience gives you a private guided tour through a prop warehouse, working movie sets and soundstages and allows you to skip lines for attractions. Entertainment promenade Universal CityWalk is adjacent. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.3801, universalstudioshollywood.com h WARNER BROS. VIP STUDIO TOURCL0000022353 Guests are transported on electric carts for a two-hour excursion through the studio responsible for such classics as Casablanca and TV shows including The Big Bang Theory and The Ellen DeGeneres Show. The tour changes daily, based on where the action is. 3400 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank, 818.972.8687, wbtour.com
PERFORMING ARTS AHMANSON THEATRECL0000022282 One of the four main venues that comprise the Music Center, the Ahmanson is at the theatrical forefront locally and nationally, regularly hosting engagements of Tony Award-winning
shows and world premieres. Highlights in 2015 include Cinderella and Matilda the Musical. 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772, centertheatregroup.org THE BROAD STAGEC Santa Monica College’s state-of-theart theater features several monthly shows of dance, theater, voice, chamber music or film productions. Visitors might see a performance of contemporary dance or one of Shakespeare’s plays. A 99-seat theater, the Edye, features more experimental works. 1310 11th St., Santa Monica, 310.434.3200, thebroadstage.com
See and Experience 10,000 Authentic Showbiz Treasures Showcasing 100 years of Hollywood! “#1 Hollywood Tourist Attraction” –LA Weekly
“One of LA’s Top 10 Museums” –LA Tourism and Convention Board
“Certificate of Excellence” DOROTHY CHANDLER –Trip Advisor PAVILION The largest venue at the Music Center downtown is the 3,100-seat home of www.TheHollywoodMuseum.com Los Angeles Opera and Dance at the 1660 N Highland Ave. at Hollywood Blvd. Hollywood, CA 90028 Music Center. L.A. Opera, directed Open Wednesday - Sunday • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. by Plácido Domingo, offers half a 323-464-7776 dozen major productions yearly. Dance at the Music Center hosts such companies as American Ballet Theatre. 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, Hollywood Museum_1-4sq_v4.indd 1 213.972.7211, musiccenter.org GREEK THEATRECL0000022286 Built in 1929, the Greek Theatre is part of the 3,000-acre Griffith Park. The site of this 5,700-seat outdoor amphitheater was chosen after a soprano revealed the quality of the outdoor bowl’s acoustics. The April-throughOctober schedule has offered headliners such as Grouplove and Sam Smith. 2700 N. Vermont Ave., L.A., 323.665.5857, greektheatrela.com
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HOLLYWOOD BOWLCL0000022287 The largest outdoor venue in the country, with 18,000 seats, offers music under the stars from spring through fall. A packed summer season features pop, jazz and rock groups, plus soloists and orchestras including the resident Los Angeles Philharmonic. Boxes in the orchestra seats have tables for picnicking. 2301 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.850.2000, hollywoodbowl.com
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nearly a dozen music series. Tours are offered. 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 323.850.2000, laphil.com
grams and UCLA Film & Television Archive screenings. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Westwood, 310.443.7000, hammer.ucla.edu
VISUAL ARTS
THE HOLLYWOOD BOWL
MARK TAPER FORUMCL0000022290 Since 1967, the Mark Taper Forum has been the socially conscious sibling on downtown’s Music Center campus. The Taper landed early productions of such landmarks as Zoot Suit and Angels in America. Plays this season include Bent and Appropriate. 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772, centertheatregroup.org NOKIA THEATRE L.A. LIVECL9000006379 The 7,100-seat venue is a centerpiece of downtown’s emerging L.A. Live, a mammoth sports, dining and entertainment destination. On the schedule at the theater are music, dance and comedy acts, as well as awards and family shows. No seat is farther than 210 feet from the stage. 777 Chick Hearn Court, downtown, 213.763.6030, nokiatheatrelalive.com PANTAGES THEATRECL0000022291 The Pantages is the Southern California flagship for the Nederlander Organization and its local presenting arm. Long-running Broadway
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imports such as The Lion King and Wicked have enjoyed runs of up to two years here. Offerings this year include Newsies and The Phantom of the Opera. 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.468.1770, hollywoodpantages.com THE WALLIS ANNENBERG CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTSCL0000022348 Aka “the Wallis,” this newer venue has transformed the historic Beverly Hills Post Office into the Lovelace Studio Theater, a theater school, café and gift shop. The 500-seat Goldsmith Theater is housed in a second state-ofthe-art facility. 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.746.4000, thewallis.org WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL The Frank Gehry-designed Walt Disney Concert Hall is one of the city’s most important performing-arts venues. The stunning $273 million facility is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Los Angeles Master Chorale and
GETTY VILLACL0000022298 The original site of the J. Paul Getty Museum, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, is dedicated to the arts and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome and Etruria and houses 1,200 antiquities. Modeled after an ancient country home in Herculaneum, Italy, it offers reinterpretations of classical theater in its Villa Theater Lab. 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.440.7300, getty.edu GRAMMY MUSEUM Explore 166-plus music genres and see artifacts such as Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” jacket at this 30,000-square-foot museum in downtown’s L.A. Live entertainment district. Learn to produce, master, songwrite and remix in In the Studio—just one of the cutting-edge exhibits and interactive experiences awaiting visitors. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.765.6800, grammymuseum.org HAMMER MUSEUMCL0000022299 The prestigious permanent collection of Impressionist, post-Impressionist and European Old Master paintings is housed alongside critically acclaimed temporary exhibitions and contemporary Hammer Projects by emerging international artists. The Billy Wilder Theater is the venue for public pro-
HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART COLLECTIONS, AND BOTANICAL GARDENSCL0000022300 More than a dozen gardens amid 120 acres of rolling lawns include the recently renovated Japanese Garden, Children’s Garden and century-old Rose Garden. Find Gainsborough’s The Blue Boy in the renovated gallery. Library treasures include the Ellesmere manuscript of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and a Gutenberg Bible. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, 626.405.2100, huntington.org LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ARTCL0000022301 The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is the West Coast’s most comprehensive museum, housing European masterpieces, an extensive collection of American art and a pavilion for Japanese art. An effort to expand the campus has resulted in the Broad Contemporary Art Museum and the Lynda and Stewart Resnick Pavilion. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6000, lacma.org MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART Committed to the collection, presentation and interpretation of work produced since 1940, MOCA holds some 6,800 objects in all visual media. MOCA Grand Avenue, designed by Japanese architect Arata Isozaki, is a gem combining pyramids, cubes and cylinders with uncommon materials. MOCA Grand Avenue, 250 S. Grand Ave., downtown; Geffen Contemporary, 152 N. Central Ave., downtown; MOCA Gallery at Pacific Design Center, 8687 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 213.626.6222, moca.org NORTON SIMON MUSEUMCL0000022304 The Pasadena landmark houses a prestigious collection of European paintings, sculptures and works on
COURTESY THE LOS ANGELES PHILHARMONIC
GETTY CENTERCL0000022297 The magnificent hilltop art institution welcomes more than a million visitors each year. It houses stunning collections of paintings, drawings, antiquities, photographs and decorative arts, as well as a beautiful Richard Meier-designed central garden with city views. The Getty Center hosts talks and tours, performances and films and lectures and conferences. 1200 Getty Center Drive, L.A., 310.440.7300, getty.edu
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paper, including masterpieces by Raphael, Vincent van Gogh and Pablo Picasso. Also on view is a celebrated collection of sculpture from South and Southeast Asia. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.449.6840, nortonsimon.org
NIGHTLIFE BAR MARMONTCL0000022356 Columbia Pictures founder Harry Cohn once said, “If you must get into trouble, do it at the Chateau Marmont.” The perpetual hot spot and dimly lit VIP playground is outfitted in richly colored wood, Chinese lanterns and signature butterflies on the ceiling. 8171 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.650.0575, chateaumarmont.com LA DESCARGACL9000007758 Sipping a daiquiri in this evocative rum bar, styled as if it were plucked from the streets of midcentury Havana and dropped onto the edge of Hollywood, couldn’t be more chic. A jazz band and dancer entertain the crowd; an open-air cigar lounge is hidden in back. 1159 Western Ave., Hollywood, 323.466.1324, ladescargala.com SKYBARCL0000022363 This beautiful, open-air bar at the Mondrian L.A. remains as chic today as when it opened. The bougainvillea-covered exterior hovers over the pool. Inside it’s all white and wood with panoramas of the city. Evening reservations are required. 8440 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.848.6025, mondrianhotel.com THE STANDARDCL0000022364 In downtown L.A. is a rooftop playground that includes waterbeds by the pool, a fireplace, a dance floor and endless surfaces for lounging. Every clear night promises a crowd; the summer daytime scene is so L.A. The Sunset Strip location also offers a pool and stylish party scene, plus a newly renovated poolside bar. 550 S. Flower St., downtown,
213.892.8080; 8300 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.650.9090, standardhotel.com £10 If the Hollywood club scene leaves you longing for a night more civilized, then ring £10 (that’s “10 pound”) at the Montage Beverly Hills. The reservation-only spot nestled above Scarpetta restaurant serves single-malt Scotch whisky from the Macallan presented in Lalique crystal glasses. 225 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.906.7218, montagebeverlyhills. com/beverly-hills-bar.php THE TROUBADOURCL9000006384 The legendary rock club that once saw a pre-electric Bob Dylan circa 1964 and Elton John making his stateside debut is now host to alternative bands such as the Ting Tings—although it’s also a favorite stop for rockers such as Tom Petty, who come to preview new material. 9081 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.276.1158, troubadour.com UPSTAIRS9000006385 Sip cocktails poolside and enjoy stunning city views atop Ace Hotel, in the historic United Artists Building. Opened last year, the bar is a favorite spot of the increasingly hip crowd flocking to the new entertainment, shopping and dining venues in downtown’s revived Broadway Theatre District. 929 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.623.3233, acehotel.com/losangeles THE VARNISHCL9000006385 Inconspicuously tucked behind Cole’s diner, the Varnish is a tiny, speak-easystyle bar that prides itself on its purist approach to classic cocktails. Its Prohibition-era and pre-Prohibition-era drinks are painstakingly crafted. 118 E. 6th St., downtown, 213.622.9999, thevarnishbar.com
The Fun Starts Here! 80
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