Where Los Angeles, April 2014 by California Media Group

APRIL 2014 WHERELA.COM

Los Angeles

LUXE LOOKS Go for the glam IN HARMONY Barry Manilow & Bruce Sussman FRONTIER TOWNS Dining off the beaten track AUDIOVISUAL The buzz in theater & art

THE

MUSIC ISSUE

LOS ANGELES’ BREAKOUT ARTISTS, TOP VENUES AND DON’T-MISS SHOWS

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REMBRANDT TO PICASSO

Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn, 1606-1669. Self Portrait with Saskia, 1636. Etching on paper.

Pablo Picasso, 1881-1973. Le Vieux Roi (The Old King), 1959. Lithograph on arches paper with watermark.

Influence: Homage to the Masters GALERIE

MICHAEL

Building Museum Quality Collections One Work at a Time

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O l d Ma s t er s | Mod er n Masters | 19th Century Painting | Contem porary

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where los angeles

04.14

CONTENTS

THE MUSIC ISSUE

departments 8

the guide

Editor’s Note

66 DINING Restaurants by cuisine and neighborhood

All together now.

10 Hot Dates The month’s don’t-miss music, art, games, festivals and more.

84 ENTERTAINMENT Special events, performing arts and sports

104 30 Things We Love From butterflies to booze and bunnies to bags, L.A.’s brimming with treats.

86 ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS Theme parks, activities, studio tapings, exhibitions and more

where now

94 SHOPPING The county’s major retail destinations

12 Dining Feast at République in Mid-City, L.A. Chapter, downtown, and Día de Campo in Hermosa Beach.

96 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, getting around and getting to know Los Angeles

14 Shopping A gentlemen’s lounge and ultra-luxe bags up the glamour ante in Beverly Hills.

16 Culture

CITY TOURS

ON THE COVER Live music gets crowds moving. Learn where to dine near local venues on pages 28-29. Photo credit: KR Media Productions /Shutterstock. CONNECT WITH US ONLINE

features 22 The Next Big Things From jazz to synth-pop, sweet sounds surround Los Angeles. Meet six acts that are making their names on the local music scene —and poised for widespread fame in 2014. BY LESLEY MCKENZIE

Fo r e s t

30 Hidden Gems

S12

La Costa Cost

Encinitass Encinita

Solana Beach Beac

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Mission Santa Ysabel

National

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Moonlight Amphitheatre

Rancho Santa Fe

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Santa Ysabel

Fo r e s t

Orfila Winery Winer

Lake Hodges Lak

Fairbanks Ranch

Rancho Bernardo

Ramona

Bernardo Winer Wineryy

C l ev eve l a n d National

Poway Center for the Performing Arts

Sorrento Valley

University of California San Diego

La Jolla

where San Diego

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Point Po int Loma

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Sleep Train Amphitheatre

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To El Centro Centro

C l ev eve l a n d

Chula Vista 125

ey l ey

Solvang Solv ang Santa Barbara Barbara

Jamul Jam

Rancho San Diego

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National City

Chula Vista Nature Center

Love Lo velland Res. ve Res

Performing Arts Center

Cottonwood Cottonw

Descanso

Sycuan Casino

El Cajon East County

Lemon Grov Grovee

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San Simeon Cambria Cambr ia Pismo Beach

Pacific Ocean

75 N

Palo Pa lo Alto San Jose Santa Cruz Cruz Montereyy Montere Carmel Car mel Big Sur 101

Alpine

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La Mesa

Coronado Cor onado

Lake T Tahoe

Sausalito Ber Berke kele leyy le

San Fr Francisco ancisco

Reno

Sacramentoo S Sacrament

Viejas Casino & Viejas Outlet Center

Lakeside

Santee

Mission Tr a i l s Regional Pa r k

805

San Diego State University/ Viejas Arena

Cuya Cu yam ya m aca R ancho S tate Park Pa rk

El Capitan Res.

San Vicente Res.

Mission Beach Beach Ocean Beach

Alliant International University

Golden Trianglee Triangl

Pacific Beach Beach

Mendocino

Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve

Miramar

Fo r e s t

Barona Valley Ranch Resort and Casino

Powa wayy

Julian

Ramona

Maderas Golf Club Airpor Air t

Explore the city O c e a n from north to south and A to Z. San Diego PAGE 99 Del Mar

101

GH HI

MAPS S10

Pacific

Eureka

C l ev eve l a n d

California Center for the Arts

Escondido

CSU San Marcos

5 Leucadiaa Leucadi

Valley View Casino

San Marcos

Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Lake Henshaw

Vista Vist

Carlsbad

Deer Park Winery

78 S11

Your new favorite restaurant might be hiding in small-town Los Angeles. Make your way to these lesser-known neighborhoods to experience some of the Southland’s most innovative cuisine.

Get the up-to-the-minute buzz from our Southern California WHERE editors online and on your smartphone.

Valley Center

Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum

Warner arner Springs

Harrah's Rincon Casino

S14 S1

Oceanside

BY ROGER GRODY

wherela.com

Mission San Luis Rey

Brown Field

STATES UNI TED O ICO M E X IC

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La Mesa

94 T Tecat e Tecat T ecate

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SHAWN BLAIR

Music legends Bruce Sussman and Barry Manilow talk trust and their new musical, Harmony.

Brenna Whitaker, one of L.A.’s rising musical talents

18 Q&A

Beverly Hills Santa Monica West Hollywood Hollywood Downtown Pasadena The Valley South Bay

34 38 42 46 50 54 58 60

DE L

Experience the art of Ezra Jack Keats at the Skirball and violin virtuosa Midori at the Disney.

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Welcome

A note from the editor

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Why do we create and listen to music? Because it makes us feel, you might argue, whether we’re looking to raise our spirits or wallow in heartbreak or get pumped for another mile on the treadmill. And you’d be at least partly right. Scientists understand some of the mechanics of music-as-moodlifter, explaining that music stimulates the pleasure centers of the brain (sex, drugs and rock ’n’ roll, it seems, are neurologically not all that different). Still, that doesn’t explain music’s grand evolutionary purpose. Of the various explanations researchers put forth, my favorite, both because it seems to reflect my own experience and because it gives me hope for mankind, is that music evolved as a kind of social glue—a way to get people to commune and empathize with their fellow Homo sapiens. That must be why I felt drawn to playing violin in an orchestra and singing in a band in my youth, and still can’t help but dance with the crowds at a live show, even though my enthusiasm has always far, far exceeded my talent: I, like everyone else, am simply hardwired to harmonize. The musicians who fill this issue would likely agree, and lucky for us, their talents overflow. From the legendary Barry Manilow and Bruce Sussman (the subjects of our Q&A on page 18), to virtuosa violinist Midori, to the breakout local artists profiled in the feature beginning on page 22, all the way to the acts filling our entertainment listings, each has dedicated his or her life to creating rhythms and melodies and sharing them with others. The emotions their songs evoke in us remind us of the ways we’re all alike, and the bonds that result strengthen our communities. We can all benefit from more peace, love and understanding ... and music just might be the source.—SUZANNE ENNIS

MAIZ CONNOLLY

ALL TOGETHER NOW

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WHERE CALENDAR APRIL 2014 Search the full calendar at wherela.com

1 NEIL YOUNG > APRIL 1–2 After selling out his March solo shows, the “craggy” rocker extends his stay at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood by two days. Rock on. p. 84

HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Go to WhereLA.com for the Weekend Roundup, where you can get the lowdown on the coolest festivals, performing arts events, dining promotions and more.

2 CICLAVIA > APRIL 6 The car-free fiesta gives cyclists, skaters and pedestrians wide berth to self-propel along Wilshire Boulevard from downtown Los Angeles to Museum Row in the Miracle Mile. p. 84

3 COACHELLA > APRIL 11–13, 18–20 This music fest is not in L.A. County, but for two weekends per year, it draws so many Angelenos to Indio to hear the likes of Haim and Lorde, it might as well be. p. 84

HAPPENINGS IN LOS ANGELES’ ARTS & CULTURE SCENE

OPENING MARCH 31 ART LIVES ON The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, downtown, kicks off a new era with Mike Kelley, a homecoming exhibit of works by the influential late artist. p. 93 APRIL 3–19 PUCK & PUPPETRY Bristol Old Vic and Handspring Puppet Company reinvent the Bard’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream (pictured below) at the Broad Stage in Santa Monica. Tom Morris (War Horse) directs. p. 84

APRIL 4–6 LET’S PLAY BALL Pop flies during the Los Angeles Dodgers’ opening weekend when “Blurred Lines” superstar, native Angeleno and Dodgers fan Robin Thicke delivers a pregame performance on April 5 at Dodger Stadium. Thicke also throws out the first pitch for this second game of the three-game series against the San Francisco Giants. Everybody get up for this kickoff to a (knock on wood) championship season. p.86

GREAT THINGS NOT TO BE MISSED

Top Stops

4 FESTIVAL OF BOOKS > APRIL 12–13 Authors, celebrities, celebrity authors and more converge on the USC campus for the annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. p. 84

5 CLIPPERS VS. NUGGETS > APRIL 15 The Los Angeles Clippers defend their home court against the Denver Nuggets at Staples Center, downtown. p. 86

6 LEBOWSKI FEST > APRIL 25–26 The dude abides at a movie party with music from the Kyle Gass Band and a screening of the Coen brothers’ classic The Big Lebowski, followed by a night of bowling, costumes and games. p. 84

7 ARTISANAL LA > APRIL 26-27 Taste and shop at this seasonal event celebrating SoCal’s handmade, sustainable edibles (pictured left). At the LA Mart, downtown. p. 84

APRIL 11–13 HAPPY DANCE Legendary modern dance choreographer Paul Taylor brings his renowned Paul Taylor Dance Company to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, downtown. p. 84 OPENING APRIL 22 SUMMER ROMANCE The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess brings fabled Catfish Row—and a 23-piece orchestra—to the Ahmanson Theatre, downtown. p. 84 APRIL 25–27 FREEZE FRAME The most celebrated photographic and moving image art fair abroad, Photo Paris Los Angeles, returns to Paramount Pictures Studios’ soundstages for its second U.S. edition. p. 84

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: JUAN OCAMPO, L.A. DODGERS; MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, SIMON ANNAND; ARTISANAL LA, RYAN TANAKA 2013

HOT DATES

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THE BEST IN DINING, SHOPPING AND CULTURE

DINING

Vive la France Old meets new at République, the new fine dining spot from Petty Cash Taqueria team chef Walter Manzke and restaurateur Bill Chait (Bestia, Rivera, Sotto). Previously Mark Peel and Nancy Silverton’s Campanile, and long before that, the site of Charlie Chaplin’s offices, the Mid-City space is now home to one of the most buzzedabout restaurants in town, serving brasserie classics with new tastes: duck confit with farmers market vegetables, spätzle and orange juice; roast chicken with schmaltz-roasted fingerlings and kale; and dry-aged, bone-in rib-eye steak frites. By day, the front bakery offers pastries and breads from Manzke’s wife, pastry chef Margarita Manzke, and at night, transforms into a raw bar, shucking out oysters on the half shell or beef tartare dressed with tarragon aioli and potato chips. The nightly changing menu includes an optional chef’s tasting menu and an Old World-heavy wine list. End with a proper cheese plate and dessert such as bomboloni sandwiched with hazelnut ice cream and covered with chocolate sauce. 624 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 310.362.6115, republiquela.com

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Salmon tostada at Día de Campo in Hermosa Beach

OPPOSITE: RYAN TANAKA. TOP: JASON SPETH; BOTTOM: COURTESY ACE HOTEL, BY SPENCER LOWELL

HOT MEX Los Angeles’ South Bay is erupting into a full-blown dining hot spot, and chef-to-watch Tin Vuong and partner/restaurateur Jed Sanford—the team behind Hermosa Beach’s Abigaile and Manhattan Beach’s Little Sister, as well as WildCraft Sourdough Pizza in Culver City—are helping to fuel the flames. The duo’s latest concept: Día de Campo, a laid-back yet stylish “modern surf lodge” just off the sand in Hermosa Beach that serves up flavorful, Mexicaninflected seafood dishes inspired by foods from Vuong’s L.A. childhood. Chill with friends at the raw bar, or commune at a booth over shareable dishes such as salmon tostada with avocado, jicama, pickled jalapeño, grapefruit and roe (seen above) and shrimp chorizo enchiladas, washed down with a handcrafted Sophia margarita dusted with a kicky house-mixed salt. 1238 Hermosa Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.379.1829, diadecampohb.com

It’s Aces Downtown’s Ace Hotel draws the hip and famous to the restored United Artists building in the Broadway Theatre District—and not just for the stylish rooms and rooftop bar. The lobby restaurant, L.A. Chapter, provides reason enough to stay awhile. Chefs Micah

Dining room at L.A. Chapter, downtown

Fields (The Standard, Downtown L.A.) and Ken Addington of Brooklyn’s Five Leaves combine local ingredients with aroundthe-world flavors. The New American all-day and dinner menus offer standby favorites such as the Five Leaves burger with harissa mayo, grilled

pineapple, pickled beets and fried egg, while a lamb pho sandwich with orange-anise consommé dip or sea urchin chitarra with cauliflower, chili and tuna butter underscore what innovative can be. 929 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.623.3233, lachapter.com WHERE LOS ANGELES 13

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WHERE NOW / los

angeles SHOPPING

Glam Bags

The look-at-me “Candis” bag from Farbod Barsum, in hot pink ostrich

“More is more” is the look du jour at the new Farbod Barsum boutique in Beverly Hills. The designer’s couture exotic-skin handbags—spotted on the arms of red-carpet beauties such as Christina Hendricks and Brittany Snow—are showstoppers, as is the shop’s space, which boasts striato olimpico marble and 13 crystal chandeliers. But the look isn’t mere fancy veneer: A protégé of the late Bijan Pakzad of the House of Bijan, Barsum has degrees in art history, fashion design and architecture, all of which inform the painstaking construction and attention to his bags’ details, inside and out. Plus, although materials such as pirarucu fish and karung snake might make a vegan shudder, they’re sustainably harvested and dyed in chrome-free tanneries. Opulent and smart. 9456 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.276.9456, farbodbarsum.com

JOIN THE CLUB The Tod’s brand is known worldwide for its classicyet-modern leather goods for men and women, all beautifully constructed from quality materials and imbued with an unmistakably Italian air. Now, the company takes its already refined reputation up a notch with the by-appointment-only J.P. Club, which opened in late February on the third floor of Tod’s

Beverly Hills boutique. Only the second of its kind for the brand, and the first in the U.S., the sophisticated men’s club offers personalized shopping and access to the new J.P. Tod’s Sartorial collection. Composed of the finest leathers, the men’s shoes and bags comprising the upscale collection are hand-stitched and buffed by master craftsmen

and customizable with bespoke details. Gentlemen (and those shopping for their well-dressed man) can sip complimentary whiskey, liqueurs, a signature cocktail and rare wines while lounging on the alfresco terrace with a periodical. La dolce vita is only an appointment away. 333 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.285.0591, sartorial.tods.com

The terrace of J.P. Tod’s J.P. Club in Beverly Hills

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Ezra Jack Keats, “Crunch, crunch, crunch, his feet sank into the snow.” Final illustration for The Snowy Day (1962)

CULTURE

First published in 1962, The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats is a perennial delight to parents and children who bond over its joyful, vibrant illustrations and sweet expression of childlike wonder. The book is a cultural landmark, too: By making the story’s central character, Peter, an African American boy playing against an urban backdrop, Keats quietly pioneered multiculturalism in children’s literature. Illustrations from the Caldecott Medal-winning book are among more than 80 original works by Keats that go on display when the national tour of The Snowy Day and the Art of Ezra Jack Keats opens at the Skirball Cultural Center on April 10. A second gallery devoted to imagination and hands-on exploration invites visitors young and old to create their own collages and crunch, crunch, crunch their own footprints across the literary landscape. p. 94

Worldrenowned volinist and educator Midori

TOUR DE FORCE At the tender age of 11, while most girls her age were tucked soundly in bed, Midori Goto made her concert debut at the New York Philharmonic’s traditional New Year’s Eve concert. The tiny Osaka, Japan-born wunderkind’s performance received a standing ovation, heralding the arrival of a major figure in classical music. More than three decades later, that young girl, now known simply as Midori, is a passionate

arts advocate (for which U.N. Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, named Midori a “Messenger of Peace” in 2007), a published author, a prolific recording artist with more than a dozen albums to her name, chairwoman of the strings department of the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music and, to the joy of concertgoers worldwide, still a commanding force on stage, performing more than 100

concerts annually. Experience the virtuosa’s expressive and technical finesse when the Walt Disney Concert Hall presents Midori in Recital on April 23, with accompaniment by Turkish-American pianist Özgür Aydin. Beethoven’s masterpiece Violin Sonata No. 10 in G, Op. 96 anchors the evening’s wide-ranging program, which also includes compositions by Debussy, Shostakovich and Schubert. p. 86

TOP: © EZRA JACK KEATS FOUNDATION; BOTTOM: TIMOTHY GREENFIELD-SANDERS

Let it Snow

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angeles When did you first meet? Barry Manilow: 1821. [Laughs] Bruce Sussman: We met in the Buchanan administration. [Laughs] No, it’ll be 42 years this May. We were very young. Barry: Both of us wanted to write for theater. I was going to be an arranger, a conductor, a pianist, but never in my wildest dreams did I have any ideas to become a performer. Bruce: When he called me to tell me he was offered his first record deal, I said, ‘Doing what?!’ Barry: I said, ‘Singing,’ and he said, ‘You don’t sing!’ Bruce: He said, ‘I do now!’ What have you learned about each other over these last 40- plus years? Barry: Trust. Bruce: It’s a marriage—a collaboration in its highest form. Most collaborations fail because of trust, and I would say that’s true of marriage as well.

Q & A

IN PERFECT HARMONY Between the two of them, singer-songwriter Barry Manilow and lyricist Bruce Sussman have written “206 songs together, four movies, three shows and a handful of commercials and movies.” So what’s left, you might ask? Well, only the very best for these two legends. Fortunately, for Los Angeles, that takes shape in their new musical, Harmony: a true story about a sextet of Jewish and non-Jewish singers in Nazi-era Germany called the Comedian Harmonists that Sussman and Manilow feel a “mission” to tell. “Why we have never heard about these guys is the story of Harmony,” explains Sussman. And so, the two best friends have been working around the clock to bring Harmony to life onstage at the Ahmanson Theatre, downtown. During a rare break in the schedule, they sat down with Where to reflect on life, career achievements and the best of L.A.—Jessica Radloff

Here’s the biggest test: Have you memorized each other’s cellphone numbers? Bruce: Yes, but I’m not going to tell you what his is! [Laughs] Barry’s cellphone number is probably the last number I’ve memorized. I talk to him a dozen times a day sometimes. Harmony runs through April 13. What’s a typical day like? Barry: There will be a lot of Xanax or Valium. Whatever comes first! [Laughs] Sell us on Harmony. Why should visitors or L.A. natives see it? Bruce: It’s a compelling narrative based on an absolutely true story, and it has a big score— eighteen original songs. We visit 28 locations. The narrative spans seven years. It’s a big, sweeping musical; and although it has its feet in the golden age, it’s also a modern musical as well.

Barry, you’ve written and composed some of the most iconic jingles in the history of pop culture. Which one is hardest to get out of your head? Barry: “Like a Good Neighbor, State Farm Is There” and “Stuck on Band-Aid” are the ones played most often and have lasted the longest. And what’s your best advice? Barry: If you do it because you love it, you have a better chance than if you do it to try and get a big hit record. Where do you go to grab a bite after a performance? Bruce: Canter’s Deli on Fairfax is always a must. Barry: Spago in Beverly Hills. As for new restaurants, it’s Bucato in Culver City. Barry, at which L.A. venues do you most enjoy performing? Barry: There’s nothing that compares to performing at the Hollywood Bowl. It’s a magical evening for both the audience and the entertainer. Where do you like to hear live music and see plays in L.A.? Bruce: We’re heading to Disney Hall for the first time tonight to hear Tchaikovsky and I suspect that will be my new favorite place for music. Theater? Well, the Ahmanson, of course. DETAILS Ahmanson Theatre 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772 Bucato 3280 Helms Ave., Culver City, 310.876.0286 Canter’s Deli 419 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.651.2030 Hollywood Bowl 2301 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.850.2000 Spago 176 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.385.0880 Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 323.850.2000

WHERE NOW / los

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Discove

Welcome to Magnolia Park L.A.'s coolest upmarket vintage and retro neighborhood! Packed with fabulous finds, one-of-a-kind boutiques, and hip galleries, this lively district is also the hub for Ladies Night Out, the famous shopping extraganza held every last Friday of the month.

VINTAGE LOVER TRENDSETTER FASHIONISTA Discover Magnolia Park Burbank. To find out more call 818-238-5180 or visit us online at www.burbankusa.com

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EXPERIENCE NIGHTLIFE IN DOWNTOWN

Johnny Carson dubbed it beautiful. The entertainment industry crowned it media capital of the world. But it’s today’s mix of celebrity sightings, sidewalk cafes, and hip shopping streets that make Downtown Burbank well worth a visit. Before or after a TV taping of The Big Bang Theory, Conan, (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) MARKET CITY CAFFE; BARNEY’S BEANERY; THE MELT; WILD CARVERY; STORY TAVERN; FLAPPERS COMEDY CLUB.

or The Ellen DeGeneres Show, check out Downtown Burbank’s one-of-kind shops and patio restaurants. Take in a movie at the AMC 16. Rub shoulders with the stars and experience this celebrity enclave at its most starry-eyed!

Burbank Co-Op_0414v2.indd All20 010-021_WhereNow_WLA.indd Pages

Downtown Burbank DowntownBUR

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Market City Caﬀe

BURBANK

164 E Palm Avenue Winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for the past four years, Market City Caffe offers generous portions of southern Italian cuisine with a terrific antipasto bar, wood-fire pizzas, calzones and signature breadsticks. The outdoor patio is the best people-watching spot in Downtown Burbank!

Wild Carvery

150 E Olive Avenue Recently expanded to include a great selection of beer and wine, Wild Carvery features fast-slow gourmet home cooking. Using only organic produce and farm-fresh ingredients, this vegan-friendly dining spot is open from breakfast to dinner daily.

Story Tavern

150 S San Fernando Boulevard Recently expanded with a new game room and all-weather pet-friendly patio, this authentic tavern offers a 32-beer tap list and a large selection of wine and cider. Featuring tasty twists on bar staples and frequent live music, Story Tavern offers good times with a dash of Burbank history.

The Melt

313 N San Fernando Boulevard This fast-casual eatery specializing in Grilled Cheese Happiness serves all-natural, wholesome grilled cheese sandwiches, fresh artisan soups and premium soft serve ice cream and milkshakes. The Melt offers both indoor and outdoor patio seating.

Barney’s Beanery

250 N First Street Home of the “2nd Best Chili in Los Angeles,” Barney’s is about pure American comfort food. This legendary watering hole attracts Hollywood celebrities and a glittery cross section of tinsel town life. For sports fans, the bar features stadium seating, 40 beers on draft and 160 bottled beers.

Flappers Comedy Club

102 E Magnolia Boulevard Laugh with tinsel town’s top talent at Flappers Comedy Club, where they’re still celebrating the repeal of Prohibition. Sizzling cuisine and intense cocktails pair up with first-rate comedic performances in three dining and show areas.

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NEXT BIG THINGS

In a city overflowing with fresh talent, it’s hard to tune out the noise from the music. Here, we present the Los Angeles musicians poised to take their careers to the next level—and whose tracks should be on your playlists for 2014. By LESLEY MCKENZIE

OPPOSITE: COURTESY OF ACE HOTEL BY SPENCER LOWELL

THE

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From left: Kris Kovacs, Ellie Innocenti, Robbie G. and Stevie J. Palmer

/ DELUKA/

Deluka’s catchy tune “Home” refers to home as a state of mind, but for these natives of Birmingham, England, it also refers to Los Angeles, where the quartet relocated in 2013 after four years in Brooklyn. But this band always had

West Coast leanings; its name derives from the fictional L.A. call girl Kit De Luca, the best friend to Julia Roberts’ character, Vivian, in the 1990 cult-classic rom-com Pretty Woman. The newly minted Angelenos have been hard at work on

new music with producer Tim Pagnotta of Neon Trees, with their EP Bonds set to debut in the spring. Helmed by frontwoman Ellie Innocenti, the band’s latest cache of infectious electro-pop and rock songs follows on the heels of their first

full-length album, Vows, in 2010, which propelled the quartet to fame and landed them a coveted spot on music festival Lollapalooza’s lineup in 2011. Keep your ear to the ground for plenty more of the group’s sunsoaked grooves in 2014.

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THINGS/ /BAD With the Sochi Olympics behind him, Shaun White is trading the half-pipe for the stage as lead guitarist of Bad Things. Initially a passion project between the champion snowboarder and childhood friends drummer Lena Zawaideh and guitarist Anthony Sanudo, the band now catches air with frontman Davis LeDuke and bassist Jared Palomar. Bad Things released the single “Caught Inside” last summer and a self-titled debut album on Warner Bros. Records in January; appearances at festivals and on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon followed. Expect more good things from this bad crew.

From left: Lena Zawaideh, Anthony Sanudo, Davis LeDuke, Jared Palomar and Shaun White

Blood, due out this May from Mom + Pop. In between remixing tracks for huge acts including Britney Spears, Lord Huron, Demi Lovato and

Imagine Dragons, and supporting Phantogram on tour, Kibby continues crafting her own rich and ethereal sound. Expect to hear influences

from her training as a classical musician, not to mention her talent for foot-tapping beats, and her powerful, soulful vocals to match.

L.A.-based Morgan Kibby is making waves with her new solo project, White Sea.

TOP: BAD THINGS, FRANK MADDOCKS. OPPOSITE: SHAWN BLAIR

Artist and producer Morgan Kibby is behind multiple infectious earworms through her collaborations with French electronic group M83, including her vocals, keyboards, songwriting and arrangements on their Grammynominated album Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming. But it’s Kibby's solo project under the moniker White Sea that's creating beaucoup buzz of late (and which earned a spot on the soundtrack Girls, Volume 1: Music From the HBO Original Series, with her single "Overdrawn"). Her EP, This Frontier, captivated music fans in 2010, so ears perked up with news of her first full-length album, In Cold

→

/WHITE SEA/

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/BRENNA WHITAKER/ Any local jazz aficionado worth his or her weight in collectible vinyl is already familiar with Brenna Whitaker. With her larger-than-life stage presence and haunting vocals, Whitaker was the driving force behind the creation of W Hollywood’s famed Sunday night jazz sessions (6250 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.798.1300), where she and her Little Big Band performed with the likes of Stevie Wonder and Michael Bolton. Today, the blond beauty draws crowds at Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Grill Jazz (2930 Beverly Glen Circle, Bel-Air, 310.474.9400), where she's scheduled

022-029_Music Feature_WLA.indd 25

to perform on April 8. Whitaker is also the goto songstress for some of the city’s most private gigs, including Gene Simmons’ and Hugh Hefner’s weddings—not to mention a recent two-week engagement on tech mogul and philanthropist Larry Ellison’s private Hawaiian island of Lanai. Just how good is she? Multiplatinum artist Michael Bublé calls Whitaker “one of the finest singers of our generation.” It’s no wonder that legendary record producer David Foster has signed on to work with the Kansas City, Missouri native on her debut album with Verve/Universal, due summer 2014.

3/21/14 4:07 PM

/MIGUEL ATWOOD-FERGUSON/ When it comes to music, Miguel AtwoodFerguson knows no bounds. A classically trained violin and viola player, AtwoodFergusonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sounds and

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musical arrangements can be heard on more than 400 albums, films and commercials to date, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just the start. But this year, Atwood-Ferguson,

whose diverse collaborators include Ray Charles and Flying Lotus, steals the spotlight with the release of two albums on local label Brainfeeder. The first is

a solo album, a collection of pieces spanning classical, rock, hip-hop and jazz, peppered with orchestral arrangements and rhythm sections. Atwood-Ferguson also

looks forward to debuting the first album of his globetrotting string quartet, Quartetto Fantastico, which bases its sound on complete improvisation.

3/18/14 3:05 PM

Music runs in the genes of the Ceremonies— three Los Angeles-based brothers whose performances are equal parts theatrical and aurally stimulating. There’s no stopping this trio, who wrapped a tour with the Fratellis in 2013 and are on the tail end of their stint as the opening act for Glasvegas. Tapped by MTV as "Artists to Watch" in late 2013, the siblings also garnered a following through KROQ’s "Locals Only" countdown with their debut single, “Land of Gathering.” Citing the Cure and the Smiths as influences, Mark, Michael and Matthew

Cook churn out infectious alt-rock melodies infused with New Wave nostalgia, which one can hear on their self-titled

OPPOSITE: VIOLETTA MARKELOU PHOTOGRAPHY. TOP: MATT WILLIAMS; ANNE LITT, MARK LEIBOWITZ

GET LITT

five-track EP with Atom Factory Music/Capitol, released last fall. Hard at work on their debut album, the trio boasts

“Today Was A Good Day”

RANDY NEWMAN

ICE CUBE

“Goodnight Hollywood Boulevard”

1983, WARNER BROS. RECORDS

1993, PRIORITY

RYAN ADAMS

»This song has become the de facto anthem for Los Angeles.

»This song ... came out right after the 1992 L.A. Riots. There’s something about its easy nonchalance, West Coast groove and Isley Brothers sample juxtaposed with the true meaning of the lyrics.

2001, LOST HIGHWAY RECORDS

1972, RCA

1967, PARLOPHONE

»When I first moved to Los Angeles, I actually went looking for Blue Jay Way. I found it up in the mythical hills above L.A. and pictured George Harrison writing it, inspired by those foggy summer L.A. mornings.

From left: Twins Michael and Mark Cook pose with big brother and band lyricist Matthew.

“I Love L.A.”

RAY DAVIES

THE BEATLES

management by Troy Carter, whose list of past and present clients includes Lady Gaga and John Legend.

Local radio fans are loyal to KCRW host Anne Litt’s weekend afternoon show. The beloved DJ shares her top song picks for bringing to mind all things Los Angeles.

“Celluloid Heroes”

“Blue Jay Way”

→

/THE CEREMONIES/

»The melancholy in this version of the song (from The Kinks Choral Collection by Ray Davies and The Crouch End Festival Chorus) is truly overwhelming. ... [T]he cautionary tale is powerful and, at the end, uplifting.

“Meet Me In Los Angeles”

»Ryan is an artist who has been inspired by Los Angeles and now calls it home.

“Moving To L.A.” ART BRUT 2005, FIERCE PANDA

“Whittier Blvd.” THEE MIDNITERS 1965, WHITTIER RECORDS

»Coming out of East L.A. in the ’60s, Thee Midniters created a surf-rock sound with horns unique to the urban culture of Los Angeles.

GEORGE STANFORD

»Any song by an English band ... that talks about wanting to “hang around with Axl Rose” and “drinking a Hennessy with Morrissey” is an instant classic.

“Hooray For Hollywood”

“L.A. International Airport”

2009, GBONES MUSIC

“Los Angeles”

SUSAN RAYE

»I love this song about the essence of what drew all of us transplants here in the first place. Makes me love my adopted hometown even more every time I hear it.

JONNIE DAVIS, FRANCIS LANGFORD AND THE BENNY GOODMAN ORCHESTRA

1980, SLASH

1937, UNITED ARTISTS

»This is one of the songs that made it apparent I had to come here ... I’ve never listened to it quietly. Ever.

»This is the quintessential Hollywood song, from the 1937 movie Hollywood Hotel ...The true classic of them all.

1971, CAPITOL RECORDS

»I don’t know of any other airport that has been immortalized so descriptively in a song about a breakup.

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GET THIS PARTY STARTED! Fuel up preshow—and keep the party going late into the night—at these bars and restaurants conveniently located within earshot of L.A.’s top music venues. —KATHERINE KIMS

MID-CITY THE WILTERN 3790 WILSHIRE BLVD., 213. 388.1400

Beer Belly»Fill up on local craft brews, then soak up that booze with comfort-food bites. 532 S. Western Ave., 213.387.2337 BCD Tofu»Soondubu—spicy tofu hot pot—is a K-town tradition. Twenty-four-hour service at this no-frills chain means filling up before or after (even post-midnight) the show. 3575 Wilshire Blvd., 213.382.6677 POT»At this Roi Choi spot inside the new Line Hotel, cocktails are made with not-so-ordinary ingredients such as uni and kimchi. Line Hotel, 3515 Wilshire Blvd., 213.381.7411 Lock & Key»Hidden behind a wall of locks and keys (hence the name), this speakeasy den boasts an open-til2 a.m. kitchen. 239 S. Vermont Ave., 213.389.5625 EL REY THEATRE 5515 WILSHIRE BLVD., 323.936.6400

Genwa»Top-notch grill-yourself meats and banchan (side dishes) make this Korean BBQ spot one

of the best, while smokeless grills are preshow friendly. 5115 Wilshire Blvd., 323.549.0760 Stark Bar»Wine by the 3-, 6and 12-ounce pours means more to tipple at this alfresco museum bar. (Don’t miss live jazz on Friday nights.) LACMA, 5905 Wilshire Blvd., 323.857.6180 République»Walter Manzke cooks up traditional brasserie fare at the most-anticipated restaurant to open this year. Prepare to wine and dine … and don’t forget dessert. 624 S. La Brea Ave., 310.362.6115

DOWNTOWN NOKIA THEATRE AT L.A. LIVE 777 CHICK HEARN COURT, 213.763.6030

Seven Grand»This DTLA bar has all the elements of a boys club—a lengthy whiskey selection (the largest on the West Coast), taxidermy, billiard tables … you get the idea. 515 W. 7th St., second floor, 213.614.0737 Ebanos Crossing»Tequila is the name of the game at this sultry, Angel’s Flight-adjacent watering hole. 200 S. Hill St., 213.935.8829 Cole’s»Dig into a French dip sandwich inside an old railway station, then grab a drink in the back bar, the Varnish. 118 E. 6th St., 213.622.4090; 213.622.9999 Ace Hotel»Grab a stool at the lobby bar or ascend to the

rooftop for sunset or postshow cocktails. The ground floor restaurant, L.A. Chapter, offers an eclectic menu with Mediterranean flair. 929 S. Broadway, 213.623.3233 WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL 111 S. GRAND AVE., 323.850.2000

Kendall’s»Stop into this French brasserie pre- or postshow for Green Hour (daily 3-5 p.m., 8-10 p.m.), when cocktails highlight the myth-shrouded absinthe. 135 N. Grand Ave., 213.972.7322 Patina»Experience fine dining at its best right inside the Gehrydesigned music venue. Paleo and gluten-free diners can opt for the $45 four-course menu. 141 S. Grand Ave., 213.972.3331 Figueroa Hotel»The poolside, outdoor bar oozes romance at this Moroccan-themed, oldschool hotel. 939 S. Figueroa St., 213.627.8971 Caña Rum Bar»Take a trip to Old Havana at this membersonly bar lounge specializing in rum. Light up a stogie from the cigar menu on the outdoor patio. 714 W. Olympic Blvd., 213.745.7090

HOLLYWOOD THE FONDA THEATRE 6126 HOLLYWOOD BLVD., 323.464.6269

atop the five-story theater. 6126 Hollywood Blvd., 323.464.6269 The Know Where Bar»This lowkey bar is what neighborhood bars are made of: vinyl records, friendly barkeep, unfussy drinks (beer, wine, sangria) and art deco-inspired charm. 5634 Hollywood Blvd., 323.871.4108 Littlefork»Come for cocktails and stay for New England favorites (clams casino, chowder, lobster roll) and a to-die-for apple cider donut. 1600 Wilcox Ave., 323.465.3675 No Vacancy»Enter the era of Old Hollywood at this restored Victorian mansion where a secret door and tightrope act are just the start. 1727 N. Hudson Ave., 323.465.1902 THE HOLLYWOOD PALLADIUM 6215 SUNSET BLVD., 323. 962.7600

Hungry Cat»Dive into oysters (half-price on Mondays) at this seafood destination that also has one of the best burgers—stuffed with blue cheese, bacon, avocado and fried egg—around. 1535 Vine St., 323.462.2155 Stella Barra Pizzeria»Order a cocktail or a craft beer on tap. Hungry? You can't go wrong with any of the handcrafted pizzas. 6372 Sunset Blvd., 323.301.4001

Rooftop Bar»One of the city’s best-kept secrets (and best vantage points) is the rooftop bar

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Sassafras»Tip your hat to the South with barrel-aged whiskey cocktails in a Savannah setting (an actual Georgian mansion that was shipped and reconstructed inside the Vine Street site). 1233 N. Vine St., 323.467.2800 Piano Bar»The live music is an attraction itself at this friendly, casual bar off Hollywood Boulevard. 6429 Selma Ave., 323.466.2750

WEST HOLLYWOOD HOUSE OF BLUES

SPREAD: ERIC RICHARDSON. BOTTOM, FROM LEFT: COURTESY THE VARNISH; RANDALL MICHELSON; ERIC WOLFINGER

8430 SUNSET BLVD., 323.848.5100

Eveleigh»A bucolic setting right on the Sunset Strip (think: farmhouse with a city view) sets the scene for seasonal plates and stiff drinks. 8752 W. Sunset Blvd., 424.239.1630 Chateau Marmont»The draw is the celeb spotting, but the idyllic patio has staying power. There’s also a lobby bar and restaurant for a nightcap and food around the clock. 8221 W. Sunset Blvd., 323.656.1010 The Standard»People watch as you sip your drink poolside at this Sunset Strip main-

stay. 8300 W. Sunset Blvd., 323.650.9090 Sky Bar»Mondrian’s rooftop bar is the place for cocktails with a view to impress out-oftowners (or a date). Mondrian L.A. Hotel, 8440 W. Sunset Blvd., 323.650.8999

Caña Rum Bar, downtown. Below, from left: the Varnish, located in the back of Cole’s, downtown; the Wiltern in Mid-City; tacos at Gracias Madre in West Hollywood

THE TROUBADOR 9081 SANTA MONICA BLVD., 310.276.1158

Dan Tana’s»This Hollywood hangout has been serving up redsauce classics for 50 years. 9071 Santa Monica Blvd., 310.275.9444 Gracias Madre»L.A.’s newest hot spot combines vegan and Mexican fare. Add tequila—try a flight of mescal—and a dreamy outdoor patio for a meal to remember. 8905 Melrose Ave., 323.978.2170 The Church Key»An eclectic menu of dim sum, American, Southern and Mediterranean dishes suits indecisive diners and groups. 8730 W. Sunset Blvd., 424.249.3700 AOC»Dine on Cal-Med plates on the beautiful patio, or make your way to the bar for biodynamic and organic wines and cocktails made with local, farmers market ingredients. 8700 W. 3rd St., 310.859.9859

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hidden gems

JASON SPETH. OPPOSITE: BOTTOM RIGHT, DYLAN + JENI

bikini shops, casual cafes and skateboarders on the Strand are plentiful. Despite early pioneers like chef pioneering John Sedlar (Rivera), Manhattan Beach was never a chefs and major dining destination, but suddenly, the beach city is on discerning diners' radars. restaurateurs One of the people most responsible for elevating blaze trails into the cuisine in Manhattan Beach is David LeFevre, a los angeles’ protégé of the late Charlie Trotter. After departing new dining downtown’s Water Grill, LeFevre opened ManhatEchoes of Silver Lake For years, promoters frontiers. tan Beach Post, where such dishes as barbecued proclaimed Echo Park “the next Silver Lake,” suggestMoroccan lamb belly with harissa-spiced caramelized ing young professionals seeking affordable bungalows by roger grody onions, as well as skirt steak with red chimichurri, would gentrify the modest locale north of downtown. reflect his love for eclectic flavors. This lively, unpreToday, the neighborhood delivers on those promises. tentious place also offers a globally inspired selection Serious diners are finding themselves in Echo Park of vegetables, from Chinese-influenced green beans for the first time, looking for parking outside Alluwith crispy pork to pomegranate couscous with feta, mette, the workshop of chef Miles Thompson. The Marcona almonds, grapefruit and mint. dining room is handsome but unremarkable, hardly At Fishing with Dynamite, LeFevre’s next project, as pretty as the dishes turned out by this 25-year-old he reprises his passion for seafood in a personalphenom, who moved to Echo Park last year with his ized setting. Fishing with Dynamite celebrates the fiancée. “Simply put, Echo Park is ‘next’ … It’s both chef’s childhood memories of fishing for blue crabs artsy and industrial with a wonderfully diverse urban on Chesapeake Bay with his grandfather. Those flair,” says Thompson. Viewing it as bridging the East Coast summers, according to LeFevre, exposed him to a simple, divide between two hot neighborhoods, Silver Lake and downtown, he honest style of cooking, a principle that survived the fussy techniques posits, “It has music, books and coffee, so food is the obvious next step.” acquired at culinary school. For starters at Allumette, Thompson sends out house-made potato The restaurant isn’t much bigger than a Maryland crab shack, but chips topped with smoked whitefish, uni cream and chive, followed LeFevre was able to squeeze in an oyster bar and live-shellfish tank. by blistered cauliflower with beets and pomegranate vinaigrette, or He turns out contemporary dishes like kimchi-spiked albacore tartare Dungeness crab custard with uni, coconut and hajikami (pickled ginger and grilled octopus with date-tomato ragout, but half of the menu is shoot). More familiar is flatiron steak with mustard bordelaise, but a devoted to nostalgic East Coast comfort foods such as New Englandflirtation with Japanese ingredients continues into the dessert course style clam chowder or his mom’s recipe for Cape Cod squash rolls. with green tea meringue paired with chocolate ganache. Thompson “I was working downtown when I went to Manhattan Beach to visit appreciates Echo Park diners, who might come by for a cocktail, grab a a friend and was hooked. Now I can't imagine living anywhere else,” bite and then return with friends. “I love that Allumette’s not like anyreports the chef, who found a place in neighboring Hermosa Beach. place else in [Echo Park], but the neighborhood is interested in seeing LeFevre says of his local clientele, “They’re extremely knowledgeable what we’re doing, discovering it and supporting it.” diners, and proud of this little paradise,” noting that locals enthusiastiThe Park, a cozy American bistro with a streetlamp standing inside cally embrace their town’s newfound status as a dining destination. its intimate dining room, paved the way for a restaurant as ambitious Increasing the buzz in Manhattan Beach, just a few steps from as Allumette. New homeowners drop in for burgers and fries, or someLeFevre’s eateries, is Little Sister, where young chef/owner Tin Vuong thing more intriguing from chef Josh Siegel, such as duck confit, oxtail combines elements of Asian and European cooking in a trendy, canstew or grilled salmon in a snappy citrus sauce. Taix continues to be an dlelit room with a mural of butterflies blasting out of a machine gun as Echo Park institution, too. Here, aging waiters deliver old-school French rap plays in the background. The locals enjoy spring rolls, beef tartare— bistro classics like moules marinières and steak frites. Surviving the Vuong’s updated version incorporates pears, pine nuts, quail egg yolk better part of a century, Taix also has an unexpectedly outstanding and and a decadent slathering of bone marrow—and deep-fried Balinese affordable wine list. meatballs with banana ketchup (a classic Filipino condiment). I’ll Take Manhattan Manhattan Beach has always been desirable, and real estate prices reflect its popularity among affluent buyers Factory Town The discovery of the Arts District of downtown L.A. who replace quaint beach cottages with coastal manses. Nonetheless, is happening so fast that by the time this article is published, it will hardly the quintessential California lifestyle still survives here: Surfboard and be considered a frontier. Reasonable rents and a creative culture lure art The glamorous Los Angeles featured in popular media is, in reality, a very small slice of a sprawling, diverse city. As talented young chefs and daring restaurateurs push into little-charted dining territory in search of lower rents and a cutting-edge reputation, they shine a spotlight on underappreciated neighborhoods and create exciting new culinary scenes.

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Clockwise from top left: Chef Tony Esnault of Church & State downtown; root vegetable salad at Allumette in Echo Park; Hinoki & the Bird in Century City; thin egg noodles at Little Sister in Manhattan Beach

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WORTH THE DRIVE galleries, antique dealers, boutiques and chefs alike. Closer to Boyle Heights than to Bunker Hill, Bestia, which opened in 2012, already has a citywide following. Enhancing the buzz is its pedigree; the eatery is a venture of prolific restaurateur Bill Chait (Rivera, Sotto, Picca), who refers to the Arts District as the SoHo of L.A. The industrial-chic space is warmed by worn brick, distressed wood and a copper-clad bar. Chandeliers crafted from vintage meat hooks hang above counters with views of a wood-fired oven imported from Naples, Italy. Helming Bestia’s kitchen is chef Ori Menashe, formerly of Angelini Osteria, and the pastry chef is his wife, Genevieve Gergis—a partnership that brings a mom-and-pop flavor to an environment that’s largely a product of trendconscious designers. Exemplifying Menashe’s bold, inyour-face style are such dishes as rustic house-baked bread slathered with chunky, balsamic vinegar-infused chicken liver spread, and pan-roasted chicken gizzards with beets in a sherry-mustard vinaigrette. Most pastas—saffron-infused tagliatelle with Calabrian sausage ragu, or pistachio-flavored fusilli in a goat Bolognese sauce—are refreshing deviations from the usual penne all’arrabbiata or lobster ravioli, and incorporate house-made pasta. Finish with Gergis’ butterscotchcoconut tart or ricotta fritters with brown sugar gelato. Menashe isn’t done in the Arts District. The chef, who lived in Israel, is working with Chait to open a contemporary Middle Eastern restaurant that’s likely to bring new excitement to the cuisine. A recent addition to the Arts District dining scene is The Factory Kitchen, where veteran restaurateur Matteo Ferdinandi and longtime Valentino chef Angelo Auriana happily forgo the trappings of fine dining for a space where exposed pipes and massive concrete columns reinforce the manufacturing-zone setting. Among the best dishes is aged prosciutto di Parma served atop puffy, lightly fried sage dough with a creamy stracciatella cheese from Puglia. Mandilli (“handkerchief”) pasta, freshly made on the premises, is bathed in a light almond-basil pesto, while duck spezzatino is served over soft polenta. And for dessert, the Factory Kitchen offers some of the best cannoli in town. One of the first full-service restaurants to open in the Arts District, a French bistro called Church & State, is still going strong in the Biscuit Company Lofts building. Go for velvety chicken liver mousse with port wine gelée, steak frites, profiteroles and a well-priced bottle of Côtes du Rhône.

Allumette 1320 Echo Park Ave., Echo Park, 213.935.8787 Bestia 2121 E. 7th Place, downtown, 213.514.5724 Bibigo 10252 Santa Monica Blvd., Century City, 310.557.0011 Church & State 1850 Industrial St., downtown, 213.405.1434 Craft 10100 Constellation Blvd., Century City, 310.279.4180 The Factory Kitchen 1300 Factory Place, downtown, 213.996.6000 Fishing With Dynamite 1148 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.893.6299 Hinoki & the Bird 10 W. Century Drive, Century City, 310.552.1200 Little Sister 1131 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.2096 Manhattan Beach Post 1142 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5405 Meizhou Dongpo 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Century City, 310.788.0120 Obikà 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Century City, 310.556.2452 The Park 1400 Sunset Blvd., Echo Park, 213.482.9209 RockSuger Pan Asian Kitchen 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Century City, 310.552.9988 Taix 1911 Sunset Blvd., Echo Park, 213.484.1265 The Tripel 333 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey, 310.821.0333

Beyond Santa Monica Squeezed between Marina del Rey and LAX lies a patch of former wetlands known as Playa del Rey, famous for its treacherous surfing before jetties were constructed to reduce erosion. Now the surf is calmer and the wetlands are filled in with subdivisions, while a small

commercial district attracts high-tech startups and a smattering of restaurants. The most prominent dining influence in the community is Top Chef runner-up Brooke Williamson. In 2011, she and chef/husband Nick Roberts established The Tripel, a lovable gastropub that put Playa del Rey into the culinary GPS database. Both chefs have a background in fine dining, but have embraced casual, unpretentious eateries. The couple’s other gastropub, Hudson House (named after their son), is in Redondo Beach, but the family calls Playa del Rey home. “We love the feeling of a place where everyone knows your name,” says Williamson. But these savvy restaurateurs also recognize Playa del Rey's commercial opportunities. At the Tripel, whose tagline is “Social Lubrication,” the couple applies sophisticated technique to intriguing small plates such as crispy pig’s ear salad with Treviso, apricot and a poached egg. The Tripel Burger (a blend of aged beef, pork and duck confit) or lamb burger with honey-yogurt-harissa sauce pair well with craft beers, followed by a grilled ciabattini with Nutella and brûléed bananas.

A New Century With skyscrapers filled with highpowered entertainment attorneys and agents, Century City shouldn’t be restaurant-poor. But only recently has this cluster of glass and steel monoliths emerged as a dining destination. Helping to turn things around is Hinoki & the Bird, a sleek Asian-inspired concept from prominent chef David Myers in the Century, a posh residential tower in which Candy Spelling downsized to a 16,500-square-foot penthouse. The interior feels spartan, but a sprawling patio buffered with ivy-covered walls and illuminated by avantgarde lanterns is lovely. Guests begin with beef tartare dusted with parmesan and spiked with pickled jalapeños, or karaage-style fried chicken with lemon aioli. Boston native Myers has created an unconventional lobster roll, flavored with green curry and stuffed into a soft roll whose dough has been dyed black with charcoal powder for visual drama. The signature entree, a buttery filet of black cod, is delivered with a smoldering sheet of hinoki (Japanese cypress) leaning against the fish. Prior to Hinoki, celebrity chef Tom Colicchio opened Craft, which is still a top-notch place in the neighborhood worthy of entertaining important clients. For casual dining, the Westfield Century City shopping center offers much more than an ordinary food court, with imported Italian mozzarella bar Obikà and Bibigo, part of a global chain offering healthy Korean specialties. RockSuger Pan Asian Kitchen, a venture of Cheesecake Factory founder David Overton, breaks down Asian borders in a glitzy setting, and just-arrived Meizhou Dongpo is a sleek, upscale Chinese restaurant direct from Beijing.

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WHERE ABOUTS The City of Angels is among the most vibrant and diverse cities in the Western Hemisphere. The area generally referred to as L.A. is actually made up of numerous cities and neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. Here’s our guide to the most visited among them.

SARAH HADLEY

➺ CITY INDEX 34

BEVERLY HILLS

SANTA MONICA

WEST HOLLYWOOD

HOLLYWOOD

DOWNTOWN

PASADENA

THE VALLEY

SOUTH BAY

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EXPLORING

Beverly Hills BEVERLY HILLS IS A LUXURY LOVER’S MECCA: DESIGNER SHOPPING, FINE DINING, MANSIONS. CENTURY CITY, WESTWOOD AND CULVER CITY ARE POCKETS WITH THEIR OWN DRAWS.

➺It’s only five square miles, but Beverly Hills looms large in pop culture as a posh locale that boasts The Mansions

The launch of Beverly Hills’ glamorous reputation dates to the early 20th century, when the then-new Beverly Hills Hotel ushered in a frenzy of movie-star mansionbuilding in the hills north of Sunset Boulevard. Today, the population of 35,000 is more economically diverse than Tinseltown might suggest. Nonetheless, the triumvirate of Beverly Hills, Holmby Hills and Bel-Air still attracts its share of famous residents, including the Stefani-Rossdale and Beckham families. Hop on the Beverly Hills Trolley Tour or book ahead with Starline Tours to see notable homes in the ‘hood, along with other local landmarks packed into the city’s nearly six square miles. Among the more storied and oft-filmed estates nestled in the hills is the 19th-century English Revivalstyle Greystone Mansion & Park, whose graceful city-owned grounds are open for strolling.

Rodeo Drive + Golden Triangle

From Greystone, head west on Sunset Boulevard, then hang on to your wallet as you turn south onto Rodeo Drive. After passing

through a tony residential neighborhood, you enter the shopping district known as the Golden Triangle, bounded by Santa Monica and Wilshire boulevards and Cañon Drive. Céline and Tory Burch each recently opened flagships on Rodeo, reminding retailers that 90210 is still the most prestigious ZIP code in the States. Ascend the Italian-esque side street to Tiffany & Co., perched atop Two Rodeo. Pause for the quintessential Beverly Hills snapshot before continuing on to the Beverly Wilshire Hotel (of Pretty Woman fame) at the south end of Rodeo Drive. Continuing west, pass Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Barneys New York, the reigning luxury retail titans along this stretch of Wilshire. At Santa Monica Boulevard, you hit the Beverly Hilton Hotel, which rolls out 30,000 square feet of red carpet annually to host the Golden Globe Awards.

The Industry + the Arts

Beverly Hills isn’t all shopping sprees and gated estates: Talent agencies William Morris Endeavor and United Talent Agency are just two of the entertainment business powerhouses based here. Witness fierce negotia-

tions and wooing over three-martini lunches at Scarpetta inside the Montage Beverly Hills and recently revamped Spago across the street. The city’s cultural treasure-troves include the Paley Center for Media and the Samuel Goldwyn Theater at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, both of which hold screenings. There is even more cultural programming at the new Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, which transforms the historic Beverly Hills Post Office into an entertainment destination.

Century City

Heading west from Beverly Hills on Santa Monica Boulevard, you enter the 0.3-squaremile modern acropolis of Century City. ICM Partners and Creative Artists Agency are located here, as is a Fox Studio lot and countless legal, financial, entertainment and hospitality firms. But those outside the biz won’t be excluded. Just past Avenue of the Stars, you hit the upscale Westfield Century City shopping center, with luxury boutiques and dining venues to rival those of Beverly Hills. Nearby on Constellation Boulevard, epicures are drawn to Craft, from Top Chef’s Tom

FROM LEFT: EDWIN SANTIAGO; DALE BERMAN. OPPOSITE: EDWIN SANTIAGO

more mansions than any other area of L.A. County, not to mention the world’s most recognizable ZIP code. Rodeo Drive, perhaps the world’s most famous shopping street, offers virtually every label worth its logo.

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NEW IN TOWN Tory Burch

The uptown style icon opens her first West Coast flagship. 366 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.274.2394

East Borough

The Costa Mesa favorite brings its modern French-Vietnamese cuisine to Culver City. 9810 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.596.8266

Ermenegildo Zegna

The Italian luxury menswear brand opens its relocated and expanded Rodeo Drive flagship. 337 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.247.8827

Maude

At his intimate new restaurant, Curtis Stone offers a monthly set menu inspired by a single ingredient. 212 S. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.859.3418

Prada boutique on North Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Opposite, from left: Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City; 208 Rodeo restaurant in Beverly Hills

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The pedestrian-friendly Westwood Village features independent shops and cafes among its Mediterranean Revival and art deco buildings.

Bruin Theatre in Westwood

Colicchio, and Hinoki & the Bird, inside the towering residential complex the Century. (Candy Spelling claims the top two floors.) The Annenberg Space for Photography displays cutting-edge exhibits of digital and print photography.

UCLA

A few miles northeast of Century City is the University of California, Los Angeles, one of the top public universities in the country. Visitors are welcome at several university attractions, including the Fowler Museum of Cultural History and the outdoor Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden in the north campus, the planetarium on the south campus and the seven-acre Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Gardens (100 Stein Plaza Driveway). The Hammer Museum is nearby and houses works by Degas and Rembrandt as well as contemporary works and installations. Paid parking is available in UCLA lots and structures throughout the 419-acre campus.

Just south of the campus, the pedestrianfriendly Westwood Village features independent shops and cafes among its Mediterranean Revival and art deco buildings, as well as two landmark movie theaters at the intersection of Broxton and Weyburn avenues: the 1936 marquee-wrapped Bruin Theatre, and the Fox Theater across the street. Built circa 1931, the Fox Theater is a favorite for movie premieres and thus prime star-spotting territory. Another don’t-miss venue is the award-winning Geffen Playhouse, located on LeConte Avenue in one of the oldest buildings in Westwood.

Culver City

Covering five square miles about four miles southeast of Westwood, Culver City has benefited from a polish in the past few years, and now boasts a thriving downtown. The Kirk Douglas Theatre and the Ivy Substation, home to the Actors’ Gang, bookend

/ Pretty Pedis

➺Why is it so hard to find a nail salon that’s as pretty as newly painted tips and toes, but without the precious attitude and price to match? Former New Yorker and mani/pedi devotee Sarah Gibson Tuttle saw opportunity in this quandary, opening Olive & June in Beverly Hills last year. The modern and airy salon (named after Tuttle’s grandmother and great-grandmother) features light woods, blush tones and thoughtful touches like hooks for your bag and complimentary coffee and tea. More than 400 colors from top brands line the walls, and whether you choose a classic manicure or “splurge” on organic beauty products, gels or luxe service, prices remain blissfully reasonable. Quandary resolved. 430 N. Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.247.0500, olivejune.com

TOP: SARAH HADLEY

G R E AT F I N D

Westwood Village

the downtown area and stage excellent live productions throughout the year. Traveling east on Washington Boulevard, don’t miss the sprawling Helms Bakery complex, which contains dozens of high-end furniture showrooms. Moving along Washington, the scene-y Arts District has more than 30 art galleries and exhibition spaces clustered along Washington and La Cienega boulevards. At the intersection of Washington and National boulevards is one end of the Expo Line, a Metro light rail that traverses from Culver City to Exposition Park and the University of Southern California to downtown. Hollywood gets all the attention, but it’s Culver City that claims the official motto “The Heart of Screenland.” In 1915, Ince/Triangle Studios, today Sony Pictures Studios, opened at 10202 W. Washington Blvd. Classics including The Wizard of Oz would eventually be filmed on the lots of the movie studio. (News reports of the time indicate that the “Munchkins” partied hard during their stay at the Culver Hotel.) The stately Thomas H. Ince Studio opened in 1918. Today, Culver City’s screen culture is still going strong, with TV series Cougar Town among the productions filmed at Culver Studios, and the Spider-Man franchise among the hits produced on the historic lots at Sony. Fully experience Culver City’s screen heritage by taking a studio tour at Sony. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see page 100.

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EXPLORING

Santa Monica SANTA MONICA HAS THE APPROACHABLE VIBE OF A BEACH TOWN WITH THE ATTRACTIONS OF A MAJOR CITY. MALIBU, VENICE AND MARINA DEL REY ARE APPEALING OPTIONS NEARBY.

➺In the 1800s, a real estate agent called Santa Monica “the Zenith City by the Sunset Sea.” The 21st-century

version of Santa Monica fulfills its early promise with a bustling downtown and beach that attract millions of visitors per year. Pacific Coast Highway connects SaMo with draws such as Malibu and Marina del Rey. Third Street Promenade, three pedestrianonly blocks on 3rd Street between Broadway and Wilshire Boulevard, is perpetually teeming with people. Visitors can hit dozens of boutiques, watch movies at three cinemas or gawk at the myriad street artists. If they don’t refuel at the many eateries along the Promenade, visitors can venture to the surrounding blocks to Tinga or the Misfit, and enjoy drinks at the Bungalow or the many pubs such as Ye Olde King’s Head that hint at Santa Monica’s large population of British expats. Anchoring the promenade at Broadway is Santa Monica Place, a beautiful open-air shopping center with Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, 80 boutiques and the top-level Dining Deck with a food court, upscale restaurants and a gourmet marketplace. East on Broadway is the legendary Fred Segal, an emporium of high-end shops on each side of 5th Street. Santa Monica Pier, built in 1909, is at the end of Colorado Avenue and features Pacific Park, a mini amusement park with food stands and rides, including a solar-powered, LED-lit Ferris wheel.

Main Street + Montana Avenue

Compared with the hustle and bustle of Third Street Promenade, Montana Avenue is downright tranquil. Between 6th and 17th streets are plenty of fashionable boutiques, including London Sole. Father’s Office, known for its stellar burger, Locanda Portofino and R+D Kitchen are tops for dining; dessert lovers might venture to Sweet Lady Jane for its famous cakes. Just minutes south of downtown Santa Monica, Main Street exudes a beachyupscale vibe. The long stretch between Pico Boulevard and Rose Avenue contains a number of galleries, restaurants such as Chinois on Main, British pubs and boutiques such as Planet Blue and Paris 1900. The California Heritage Museum is in a transplanted Victorian-era home, as is the Victorian, adjacent to the museum, which features a cool downstairs speak-easy, Basement Tavern.

The Arts

Visitors can take in plays at Main Street’s Edgemar Center for the Arts, housed in an angular concrete structure designed by Frank Gehry. An even wider variety of entertain-

ment is at the Broad Stage, Santa Monica College’s first-rate, 499-seat performing arts, film, dance and theater. As L.A. has emerged as a fine-arts capital, the campus-like Bergamot Station (2525 Michigan Ave.) has become an important destination. It’s home to 30 galleries, the Santa Monica Museum of Art and a cafe.

Malibu

Twenty miles north of Santa Monica on Pacific Coast Highway is Malibu. Formerly known as Rancho Malibu, Malibu’s land was once so coveted that May K. Rindge, who took ownership of it in 1905 after the death of her scion husband, used armed guards to defend it from trespassers. In the 1920s, Rindge’s hefty legal bills, racked up from fighting developers, forced her to invite stars to live in Malibu Colony in the 1920s, and the legacy of Malibu as celebrity-home central continues today. Much of Malibu’s best destinations are visible from PCH, such as the many restaurants with ocean views, from the casual (Malibu Seafood) to the upscale (Nobu Malibu). Adjacent to the Malibu Lagoon and Bird Sanctuary, the Adamson House is filled

FROM LEFT: BROWN CANNON III; SARAH HADLEY. OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN

Third Street + the Pier

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NEW IN TOWN

800 Degrees

Hot build-your-own pizza restaurant opens third location. 120 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.566.0801

Vintage Malibu New boutique brings vintage luxury accessories to the Malibu Country Mart. 3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.7100

The Albright

Family-owned SM Pier Seafood reopens with fresh name, decor and menu. 258 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, 310.394.9683

Satine Kawaii

Satine’s third boutique offers Japan-tastic ready-to-wear and gifts. 1410 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.392.6213

Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. Opposite: Geoffrey’s Malibu restaurant; Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine in Paciﬁc Palisades

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Malibu’s land was once so coveted that heiress May K. Rindge, who took ownership of it in 1905, used armed guards to defend it from trespassers.

tions. Rose Avenue is also coming up, thanks to the emergence of hot restaurants such as Superba Snack Bar, a smattering of hip shopping and industrial-chic lofts. Looky-loos stroll Ocean Front Walk to ogle the vendors and performers, or bodybuilders at Muscle Beach.

Brentwood

with historic tile. The celebrity-frequented Malibu Country Mart serves as the area’s town square. Together with adjacent Malibu Village and Malibu Lumber Yard shopping centers, there are enough trendy shops and restaurants to while away an afternoon. Inland, nearing Calabasas, is wine country. Malibu Discovery offers tours of the region, with stops at tasting rooms such as Malibu Wines and Sip Malibu.

Topanga + Pacific Palisades

In the 1960s, hippies and musicians such as Neil Young hid out in idyllic Topanga, accessed by Topanga Canyon Boulevard from Pacific Coast Highway. Removed from urban activity, it retains its bohemian vibe and independently owned businesses. Hiking trails allow visitors to bask in Topanga’s woodsy beauty, and restaurants such as Inn of the Seventh Ray accommodate creekside dining. There’s more than initially meets the eye in seemingly sleepy, family-friendly Pacific

G R E AT F I N D

Palisades, south of Topanga on PCH and accessed from Temescal Canyon Road. Hikers love the shady trails in Temescal Gateway Park, and cafes and upscale momand-pop shops can be found between Via de la Paz and Monument Street near Sunset Boulevard. The Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine on Sunset is a 10-acre oasis with a lush garden and koi- and swan-filled lake. The crown jewel of “the Palisades” is the Getty Villa. Styled as a Julius Caesar-era villa, it’s filled with Greco-Roman antiquities.

Venice

Abbot Kinney won the land that would become Venice in a coin toss. He sought to develop it as an American version of the Italian city; the canals are still there, today lined with million-dollar bungalows. His namesake Abbot Kinney Boulevard is Venice’s coolest section, where The Tasting Kitchen, Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea and boutiques such as Alexis Bittar and Satine are the main attrac-

/ beau-try

➺While buying a new beauty product offers the possibility of finding your can’t-

live-without-it balm or blush, spending your hard-earned dollars on something unfamiliar can feel a little risky: What if you’re stuck with a pricey bottle of something that just isn’t you? At the NewBeauty at Fred Segal store in Santa Monica, a TestTube bar lets you sample before you splurge. For just $30, customers select one full-size product out of four regularly rotated options and five deluxe sample/ travel-size products out of 10 to fill their personalized TestTube. Product types range include hair, skin care, nails and cosmetics and in March, feature hot brands including LVX, Moroccan Oil, W3LL People, Lumene, Tan Towel and Gorgeous Cosmetics. 500 Broadway, Santa Monica, 310.394.8509, testtube.newbeauty.com

Marina del Rey

Marina del Rey’s main attraction is the marina, the largest man-made small-craft harbor in the world. Restaurants in the fisherman’s wharf are positioned to take advantage of the views. Rent kayaks from UCLA Marina Aquatic Center (14001 Fiji Way), or shop and dine at Waterside at the Marina, located at Lincoln Boulevard and Fiji Way. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see page 100.

FROM TOP: ASHOK SINHA; ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/SIMON SMITH

The Getty Villa in Paciﬁc Palisades

Reese Witherspoon, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner are some of the celebrities said to live in this affluent enclave northeast of Santa Monica. San Vicente Boulevard functions as the neighborhood’s main street, with copious independent shops, bakeries, cafes and restaurants between Bundy Drive and where San Vicente becomes Federal Avenue. The petite Brentwood Country Mart, a unique open-air shopping center built in 1948, keeps retail offerings contemporary and upscale. The area’s biggest draw is the Getty Center, the hilltop museum that houses J. Paul Getty’s spectacular art collection.

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Celebrating 80 years... Still the center of attention.

Since 1934, the Original Farmers Market has stood as a living testament to Los Angeles history and culture. Today, it remains one of the last of the great Hollywood landmarks, attracting people from all over the world to enjoy its ecletic mix of over 100 world-class restaurants, specialty shops, artisan grocers and the best people watching anywhere. In a city built by distraction, this charming 80-year old remains a classic beauty standing on the corner of Third & Fairfax, still turning heads.

Market events and activities throughout the year. Visit farmersmarketla.com for calendars and updates.

The Original 80 YEARS • 1934 –2014

6333 W. Third ST. • LoS AngeLeS • fArmerSmArkeTLA.com • 323.933.9211 Insta

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EXPLORING

West Hollywood TRENDS IN FASHION, DESIGN AND FOOD OFTEN BEGIN IN L.A., AND MANY OF THOSE INNOVATIONS CAN BE TRACED TO THE PIONEERING COMMUNITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD.

➺For a municipality measuring less than two square miles and with fewer than 35,000 residents, West

Hollywood wields enormous influence over the L.A. lifestyle. With a number of world-class art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, nightclubs and theaters, it’s a frequent destination for locals and tourists alike. After dark, this iconic stretch of Sunset Boulevard between Doheny Drive and Crescent Heights Avenue becomes the hottest stretch of asphalt in L.A. County. The club scene here rocks with many legendary establishments. The Roxy, the Whisky a Go-Go and The Viper Room have a long history of hosting performances from rock ‘n’ roll’s finest. Other Sunset Strip nightclubs include Bootsy Bellows and Rock & Reilly’s. The Comedy Store continues to showcase the leading names in standup as well as emerging stars. During the day, boutiques such as beloved Book Soup draw traffic. Hotels are an integral part of the Sunset Strip scene. Chateau Marmont, a glorious and notorious celebrity hangout throughout the decades, remains a discreet local getaway. Skybar, at the style-conscious Mondrian, retains its aura of exclusivity. At the Sunset Tower Hotel, Bugsy Siegel’s former suite has been converted into the Tower Bar.

Sunset Plaza

Sunset Plaza, between La Cienega and San Vicente Boulevards on Sunset Boulevard, is a

collection of tony shops and bistros with an international flavor and free parking, a novelty in this neighborhood. This is the city’s Euro Zone, where you’re apt to hear more French and Italian than Valley Girl. For up-tothe-minute fashion, check out the collections at Zadig & Voltaire or either of the two H. Lorenzo shops. Pamper yourself with a facial and massage at Ole Henriksen Face/Body Spa, a blowout at Drybar or a makeover at Blushington.

Melrose Avenue

Melrose Avenue has become virtually synonymous with trendiness, and new expressions in fashion, art and food continue to percolate up and down this street with multiple personalities. One stretch of Melrose, east of Fairfax Avenue, has an eclectic mix of indie boutiques, cafes and coffeehouses interspersed with tattoo parlors and vintage shops. Stores such as Wasteland have wild façades and vibrant signage that add energy to the scene. Farther west, Melrose becomes très sophistiqué, showcasing upscale tastes at Ron Herman, Kelly Wearstler, TenOverSix and Vivienne Westwood. Just off Melrose

is the quiet, fashionable three-block street of Melrose Place, where Bentleys line up for chic salons such as Frédéric Fekkai and cutting-edge boutiques such as Zero + Maria Cornejo, Monique Lhuillier or Isabel Marant.

The Avenues

Melrose Avenue’s massive Pacific Design Center is the hub of L.A.’s flourishing art, fashion and design district, also known as the Avenues, which runs along Melrose Avenue and Beverly and Robertson boulevards. The complex itself—monolithic blue, green and red buildings designed by celebrated architect Cesar Pelli—is itself noteworthy (you’ll either love it or hate it), but its 1.2 million square feet houses more than 130 showrooms catering to professional designers and luxury homeowners. PDC is also home to a satellite of downtown’s Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and a stylish Wolfgang Puck eatery, Red Seven.

Beverly + West 3rd

Beverly Boulevard and West 3rd Street are major east-west streets running through West Hollywood, filled with trendy restau-

FROM LEFT: DALE BERMAN; MONICA NOUWENS. OPPOSITE: SARAH HADLEY

Sunset Strip

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NEW IN TOWN 1 Oak

Swanky New York nightclub alights on Sunset Strip. 9039 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.274.2326

Herringbone

San Diego restaurant opens outpost at Mondrian hotel. 8440 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.848.6000

Sweet Rose Creamery

Popular ice cream shop serves up a third location near the Grove. 7565 Beverly Blvd., 310.260.2663

Vaucluse

Cocktails and AussieAmerican fare come to Charlie Chaplin’s old residence. 8210 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.656.6196

Chris Burden’s installation Urban Light at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Opposite, from left: the Farmers Market; a Melrose Avenue boutique

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Beverly Hills may be the toniest shopping district in L.A., but Robertson Boulevard is not far behind.

The Pacific Design Center, aka “the Blue Whale,” anchors the design district called the Avenues.

rants, design showrooms and boutiques from some of the hottest up-and-coming clothing designers. The two streets bracket the landmark eight-level Beverly Center, whose design is reminiscent of Paris’ Pompidou Center. Bloomingdale’s, Henri Bendel, Fendi, Gucci, Stuart Weitzman, the Capital Grille and new Maje and Sandro boutiques are among more than 160 establishments drawing consumers. On West 3rd Street east of Beverly Center, you’ll find favorite boutiques such as BedHead for chic pajamas and Duncan Quinn for bespoke tailored suits. There are many dining options such as Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo’s Son of a Gun, plus a branch of Magnolia Bakery. On Beverly Boulevard, you can browse vintage couture at Beige or high-end home décor and accessories at Garde. Afterward, you can experience market-fresh American cuisine at Cooks County or hearty Italian on the romantic patio at Dominick’s.

Beverly Hills may be the toniest shopping district in L.A., but Robertson Boulevard is not far behind, particularly if you’re young and hot and have your own reality show. The celebutante set hits Rebecca Taylor for womenswear, Zimmermann for haute swimwear and Kitson for trendy accessories. A cutting-edge Chanel concept store illustrates the difference between Robertson Boulevard and more staid Rodeo Drive. For a breather between boutique-hopping, consider a cocktail with crab cakes on the picket-fenced patio of Ivy Restaurant, where famous faces practically outnumber those of civilians.

Fairfax District

Technically part of the city of Los Angeles, the Fairfax District is one of the most culturally diverse and artsy neighborhoods in the West Hollywood area. At Fairfax Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard is the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), a renowned

/ soles with soul

➺Calleen Cordero launched her footwear line with the ideal that it would be “as authentic as it was beautiful, as comfortable as it was luxurious, and as nourishing to the soul as it was to the eye.” Today, her company manufactures out of a 10,000square-foot factory in North Hollywood, employing almost 50 local artisans who painstakingly cut, mold and sculpt her designs by hand, from their intricately studded leather uppers down to their wooden soles. Admire the brand’s old-world craftsmanship and bring home a piece of true California style from the newest Calleen Cordero boutique at Sunset Plaza, which carries her signature shoes as well as boho-luxe handbags, belts and other accessories. 8659 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.360.0527, calleencordero.com

TOP: EDWIN SANTIAGO

G R E AT F I N D

Robertson Boulevard

multifaceted facility with more than 100,000 works from around the world. The Broad Contemporary Art Museum, designed by architect Renzo Piano, showcases art from the contemporary and modern eras, while the latest additions to the LACMA campus include the Lynda and Stewart Resnick Exhibition Pavilion and Ray’s & Stark Bar. Adjacent to LACMA is The Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits. Additional venues at this formidable Museum Row include the Petersen Automotive Museum and the Architecture and Design Museum. South of the museums is a surprise for curious foodies: a neighborhood known as Little Ethiopia, where acclaimed Ethiopian restaurants are located. Be prepared to eat with your hands! One of the district’s anchors is the historic Farmers Market, with more than 100 open-air produce stalls, shops and eateries. There are spots to satisfy virtually any craving, including a wine bar, taqueria and stands with authentic Louisiana gumbo and Korean barbecue. Adjacent and connected by a vintage trolley is The Grove, an outdoor, pedestrian-only shopping center. The Grove has the character of an old-fashioned village square, with stained-glass street lamps and central fountain. Nordstrom, a movie theater and stores such as new Topshop Topman are joined by eateries and restaurants. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of West Hollywood, see pages 100-101.

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3 2

(map not to scale)

WELCOME TO THIRD STREET! Nestled between West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and the Farmers Market, WEST 3RD STREET is a shopping and dining experience unlike any other in Los Angeles. Each store and restaurant offers an exciting and unique vision, making West 3rd one of the most highquality and well-edited collections of merchandise and fine food anywhere in the city. Whether you are looking for fashion, furniture, gifts or food, chances are you will be inspired by what you find on West 3rd Street.

Handmade sterling silver and 14k gold jewelry cast from 19th-century wax seals rich in inspirational imagery.

PYRRHA

8315 West 3rd Street (323) 424-4807 pyrrha.com

2 Couture loungewear and pajamas designed by Renee Claire and made in L.A. Also featuring fine bedding and gifts. Mention ad for a free gift with purchase.

BEDHEAD PAJAMAS 8336 West 3rd Street (323) 653-8336 bedheadpjs.com

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3 Contemporary childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clothing, toys and accessories.

EGGY

8365 West 3rd Street (323) 658-8882 shopeggy.com

4 At Magnolia Bakery, everything is made fresh from scratch on premises, all day, every day, using the finest ingredients.

MAGNOLIA BAKERY 8389 West 3rd Street (323) 951-0636 magnoliabakery.com

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EXPLORING

Hollywood HOLLYWOOD IS IN THE MIDST OF A NEW GOLDEN AGE, AND ITS HIP, UP-AND-COMING NEIGHBORS LOS FELIZ, SILVER LAKE AND ECHO PARK SHARE IN THE LIMELIGHT.

➺“Hollywood is a state of mind” was a popular refrain when this part of Los Angeles was in the midst Hollywood + Highland

The Hollywood & Highland Center has been a catalyst for the rebirth of Hollywood Boulevard. Its Dolby Theatre is the home of the Academy Awards. The center’s shops are varied, including Lucky Brand and Louis Vuitton, and it boasts nightclub Level 3. The central Babylon Court frames views of the iconic Hollywood sign. Built in 1923 to advertise a housing development, the 45-foot-high letters originally read “Hollywoodland.” Next door to Hollywood & Highland is the TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre), famous for its celebrity handprints embedded in the cement out front.

Showtime

Just across the street from Hollywood & Highland is the ornate, lavishly illuminated El Capitan Theatre. Masterfully restored by Disney, it offers special presentations of the studio’s animated releases combined with performances using an antique Wurlitzer pipe organ and children-pleasing stage shows. Jimmy Kimmel Live! tapes in an ABC studio next door. The Egyptian Theatre—built in 1922 around the time that

King Tut’s tomb was discovered—screens eclectic artsy fare. The landmark Pantages Theatre has staged megahit musicals including The Book of Mormon, and the Hollywood Palladium has a rich history of showcasing headlining musicians.

Walk of Fame

The sidewalks along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard (La Brea Avenue to Gower Street) and three blocks of Vine Street (Yucca Street to Sunset Boulevard) are inlaid with the legendary brass-and-terrazzo stars honoring celebrities from the entertainment industry. More than 2,400 stars are enshrined beneath the feet of tourists, but the roster is not without its quirks—Pee-wee Herman has one but Clint Eastwood doesn’t. Marilyn Monroe’s star is steps from Hollywood & Highland, and John Lennon’s is appropriately located in front of the Capitol Records Building, the structure designed to resemble a stack of records.

Museums, Hollywood-style

Hollywood has its museums, but don’t expect to encounter Picasso or Monet, or even a T. rex skeleton. Next to TCL Chinese Theatre

is Madame Tussauds Hollywood, filled with more than 100 wax figures ranging from legends Clark Gable and Audrey Hepburn to contemporary icons such as Justin Timberlake and Lady Gaga. You can ponder some zany accomplishments at the Guinness World Record Museum, while the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum offers bizarre exhibitions on double-headed animals and shrunken human heads. Serious movie buffs head to the Hollywood Museum, which occupies four floors of the historic Max Factor Building. Among the 10,000 costumes and artifacts on display are Indiana Jones’ whip, Rocky Balboa’s boxing gloves and W.C. Fields’ top hat.

Around Vine

The storied intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, the epicenter of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, boasted a large concentration of entertainment industry companies in the 1920s. It’s a different Hollywood today, but the magic of this location endures in the soaring W Hollywood Hotel & Residences, which boasts Delphine brasserie. A Metro station is integrated into the hotel; Hollywood is particularly well served by mass

FROM LEFT: SARAH HADLEY; DALE BERMAN. OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN

of its decline not long ago. But with hot new boutiques, restaurants, hotels and condos sprouting up, it has reemerged as a bona fide destination, and waves of international visitors mingle with colorful locals.

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NEW IN TOWN

Broome Street Registry & Atelier

Offspring of the beloved general store stocks gift-worthy housewares. 2945 Rowena Ave., Silver Lake, 323.570.0405

Mud Hen Tavern

Susan Feniger opens a rustic-style neighborhood pub in former Street space. 742 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.203.0500

Lucky Duck

Dinner spot from Square One serves sustainable fare. 2630 Hyperion Ave., Silver Lake, 323.686.6304

Hollywood & Highland Center in Hollywood. Opposite, from left: the Capitol Records building and Ripleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Believe It or Not! Odditorium in Hollywood

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The largest urban park in America, the sprawling Griffith Park is an ideal place to hike, picnic, golf, ride horses and more.

transit. Across the street is boutique hotel the Redbury and its stylish Middle Eastern restaurant, Cleo. Sunset Boulevard and Vine is in transition, but dance clubs and eateries give this corner plenty of character. Serious cinephiles catch their flicks at ArcLight Cinemas, where it’s easy to spot a celeb. Close by is Amoeba Music, where music fans and collectors browse the aisles through 31,000 square feet of space packed with rare vinyl records, CDs and memorabilia. A couple of blocks west is the stylish minicomplex Space 15 Twenty, catering to shoppers well into the evening. The center is anchored by a supersize Urban Outfitters and complemented by other hip boutiques.

Nightcrawling

The revival of Hollywood has only enhanced its endless nightlife opportunities, and a lively bar and club scene permeates the district. On Hollywood Boulevard, you can party under

G R E AT F I N D

the guise of literary advancement at librarythemed Hemingway’s, or attempt to get past the velvet rope at Playhouse or Lure on Ivar Avenue. Cahuenga Boulevard also hosts dozens of clubs. Quintessentially L.A. but a galaxy removed from Hollywood Boulevard is the Hollywood Bowl, the largest outdoor amphitheater in the U.S., where the Los Angeles Philharmonic takes up residence from June to October. Picnicking under the stars here is among the most memorable experiences in L.A. Nearby is the Ford Amphitheatre, featuring a more intimate environment for international music, dance and family fare.

Los Feliz + Silver Lake

These neighborhoods are among the bestkept secrets in the county. Vermont Avenue, the main drag in Los Feliz, presents a collection of shops and restaurants that range from bohemian to chic. Skylight Books and 24/7 diner Fred 62 are popular hangouts. Newer

/ visionary style

➺One part gallery, one part retail store, one part showroom, Just One Eye brings together fashion, art and design to a Hollywood address—which also happens to be Howard Hughes’ former headquarters. Fashionistas can find lesser-known French designers such as Aurelier Demel and Jitrois. (Did someone say leather bodysuit?) Accessories from Chloe, Martin Margiela and more complete the cool-chic look. Menswear, jewelry, housewares, furniture, books, prints and collectible art are also for sale, along with limited-edition collaborations including Damien Hirst-embellished black patent crocodile backpacks from The Row and unique Converse kicks handmade from an original Nate Lowman painting and drop cloth (limited-run replicas are available, too). 7000 Romaine St., L.A., 888.563.6858, justoneeye.com—K.K.

Griffith Park

The largest urban park in America, the sprawling Griffith Park is an ideal place to hike, picnic, golf, ride horses and more. The Charlie Turner Trailhead begins at the Griffith Observatory, one of the great planetariums in the world and a frequent film location. The hike up Mount Hollywood provides views of the Hollywood sign, and the Greek Theatre, a 5,700-seat amphitheater, is a legendary music venue. Also located here are the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens and the Western heritage-oriented Autry National Center, both accessible from the Ventura (SR 134) or Golden State (I-5) freeways. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see pages 101-102.

FROM TOP: EDWIN SANTIAGO; JUST ONE EYE

Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park offers stunning views of the L.A. Basin.

lounges such as Rockwell represent the neighborhood’s increasing sophistication. A once-forgotten stretch of Hollywood Boulevard in Los Feliz now hosts trendy boutiques such as Rebecca Minkoff and restaurants including cult fave Umami Burger. Fully transformed is Silver Lake Boulevard, now crowded with eateries and upscale retailers. At Sunset Junction, where Sunset and Santa Monica Boulevards intersect, Los Feliz transitions into Silver Lake. Foodies hang at casual Forage or the Cheese Store of Silverlake, while aspiring screenwriters hammer at their laptops and sip lattes at Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea. Farther east on Sunset Boulevard, chic handbags beckon at the Clare Vivier flagship.

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TRANSFORMERS and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. © 2014 Hasbro. © 2014 DreamWorks, LLC and Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights Reserved. ©2014 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 14-ADV-14348

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EXPLORING

Downtown L.A.’S URBAN CENTER REFLECTS THE CULTURAL DIVERSITY, WORLD-CLASS ARCHITECTURE AND DYNAMIC COMMERCE THAT MAKE THE CITY A SUPERSTAR ON THE GLOBAL STAGE.

➺Downtown Los Angeles could not be hotter, with new restaurants and shops opening daily. Historic art

deco structures share the streetscape with glass-clad towers, and even movie stars are snapping up lofts in century-old buildings. The arts scene roars to life here, where the image of L.A. as “laid-back” hardly applies. The ornate Union Station was the last of the grand railroad terminals built in the U.S. Its importance faded as the automobile began to dominate life in L.A., but Union Station has staged a comeback, thanks to a renovation and downtown’s new energy. From Union Station, the hub of the Metro system, you can board the Red Line to Hollywood and the San Fernando Valley or the light rail Gold Line to Pasadena, Blue Line to Long Beach and Expo Line to Culver City. Nonstop bus service to LAX is available 24/7. Metrolink commuter trains connect distant suburbs, and you can jump on an Amtrak train for a scenic journey along the coast.

Grand Avenue + Music Center

The heart of L.A.’s performing-arts scene and the site of its most dramatic architecture, Grand Avenue is beginning to live up to its name. On Bunker Hill, once filled with Victorian mansions, four venues make up a formidable collection of stages at the Music Center. The 3,200-seat Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is home to L.A. Opera, and the Ahmanson Theatre and the Mark Taper Forum host

theatrical productions. The flashiest venue is architect Frank Gehry’s curvaceous Walt Disney Concert Hall, home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Its music director, Gustavo Dudamel, exudes an energy that rivals the building’s audacious design. Also housed at Disney Hall is REDCAT, which offers performance and visual arts productions. After a show, take a stroll through the new 12-acre Grand Park, between Grand Avenue and Hill Street and First and Temple streets.

Descending Bunker Hill

Steps from the Music Center is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, designed by Spanish architect José Rafael Moneo. A short walk south on Grand is the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Southern California’s premier contemporary art museum. The Omni Hotel and California Plaza are adjacent. Nearby Angels Knoll is a welcome patch of greenery amid the concrete jungle. Angels Flight, a vintage funicular (dormant at press time) that climbs to California Plaza from Hill Street below, is billed as “The Shortest Railway in the World.” At the foot of the hill, the Bunker Hill Steps rise five stories at

the U.S. Bank Tower, the tallest building west of the Mississippi. Across the street is the art deco-style Los Angeles Public Library.

Olvera Street

The origin of the city of Los Angeles, dating back to 1781, is El Pueblo de Los Angeles, a collection of 27 buildings along festive pedestrian concourse Olvera Street. The city’s oldest building, Avila Adobe (circa 1818), is located here, along with Mexican restaurants, mariachi bands and merchants offering arts and crafts. A few blocks away is the city’s oldest restaurant, Philippe the Original (1908), where a cup of joe is just 45 cents.

Historic Districts

Undergoing a renaissance is the Broadway Theatre District, home to once-opulent movie palaces. Several, such as the United Artists Theatre building (now the stylish Ace Hotel), have been revived or restored to their original grandeur. Hip shops such as Acne Studios lend cachet to the area. The Bradbury Building (304 S. Broadway), built in 1893 in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, was featured in the film Blade Runner.

FROM LEFT: MATT HARTMAN, COURTESY GRAND PARK. OPPOSITE: LISA ROMEREIN

Union Station

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NEW IN TOWN Ace Hotel

Hip hotel features brasserie LA Chapter and theater in historic United Artists building. 929 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.623.3233

Wolf & Crane

Neighborhood-y bar pours local craft beers and cocktails in Little Tokyo. 366 E. 2nd St., downtown, 213.935.8249

The Factory Kitchen

Authentic Italian trattoria delights diners in the live/work Factory Place Arts Complex. 1300 Factory Place, downtown, 213.996.6000

Walt Disney Concert Hall. Opposite, from left: Fans at Dodger Stadium in Chavez Ravine; Grand Park

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Downtown’s heritage as a mercantile center can still be experienced in its historic shopping districts, popular with bargain hunters.

sleek Japanese American National Museum. The Geffen Contemporary, a branch of MOCA, is next door. At 2nd and Main streets is the Cathedral of Saint Vibiana, former home of the Los Angeles Archdiocese.

L.A. Live

Spring Street from 4th to 7th streets is a rapidly awakening area once referred to as the “Wall Street of the West.” Steps from this historic district is a row of trendy bars on 6th Street (between Main and Los Angeles streets) that includes the Varnish.

Shopping Districts

Downtown’s heritage as a mercantile center can still be experienced in its historic shopping districts. The Jewelry District draws shoppers to markets such as St. Vincent Jewelry Center (650 S. Hill St.), while in the neighboring Fashion District, centered around the California Market Center, you can find designer clothing items. At Santee Alley, an open-air bargain bazaar, designer trends breed low-priced knockoffs. The Flower District offers blooms at wholesale prices. For an awesome mix of old-school produce vendors and lunch counters and new, upscale specialty stalls, Grand Central Market, near the foot of Angels Flight, is the place to go. And the

G R E AT F I N D

refreshed FIGat7th shopping center boasts trendy new boutiques and eateries.

Chinatown

Chinatown remains a great destination for sampling dim sum or browsing for authentic clothing, tea or home goods. Cultural highlights include the ornate Thien Hau Temple (750 Yale St.) and the Chinese American Museum. Pedestrian-oriented Chung King Road and Gin Ling Way are home to galleries, while Broadway boasts boutiques. Dodger Stadium is a short drive away, as is San Antonio Winery, which offers tours and tastings.

Little Tokyo

Little Tokyo is still a proud ethnic enclave, but it, too, is emerging as an up-and-coming hipster ’hood. The dining scene is popping, led by newer restaurants such as Lazy Ox Canteen, and you can nibble on traditional sushi prepared by veteran chefs at Japanese Village Plaza. Just a few steps down 1st Street is the

/ elements of style

➺Just when you thought downtown’s Arts District couldn’t get any hotter, along comes lifestyle gallery and retail space Alchemy Works. Launched by Apolis founder Raan Parton and his wife, Lindsay, the spot is dedicated to a carefully curated selection of apothecary, clothing and home brands that speak to a “salt and surf” vibe, explains Lindsay—an homage to Raan’s upbringing in Santa Barbara, where the couple met during college. Look for a well-edited selection of brands including men’s grooming line Imperial Barber and Rose & Fitzgerald, a homewares line based out of Uganda supporting local artisans. “What we created is a version of our ideal department store,” says Lindsay. Mission accomplished. 826 E. 3rd St., downtown, alchemyworks.us—L.M.

Exposition Park

Just south of downtown is Exposition Park, whose grounds hold major museums and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The California African American Museum touches on African American history, and the BeauxArts-style Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers insight into prehistoric giants. The California Science Center has a 3-D IMAX theater and exhibits the retired NASA space shuttle Endeavour. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of downtown, see page 101. FROM TOP: MATT HARTMAN; JORY CORDY, LOS ANGELES

The retired NASA space shuttle Endeavour at the California Science Center in Exposition Park

The $2.5 billion L.A. Live project has been called the epicenter of the downtown renaissance. Staples Center, home to the Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers and Kings, hosts top pop acts, as does Nokia Theatre L.A. Live, which boasts state-of-the-art acoustics. The Grammy Museum honors myriad music genres with videos, artifacts and interactive exhibits. A dozen restaurants and nightlife venues—WP24, Trader Vic’s and Lucky Strike Lanes, to name a few—face a massive urban plaza lined with LED screens. The Los Angeles Convention Center, encompassing 16-plus acres of exhibition space, is also here.

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EXPLORING

Pasadena PASADENA BRINGS A BLEND OF SMALL-TOWN CHARM AND COSMOPOLITAN ENERGY. NEIGHBORING TERRITORIES EAGLE ROCK, GLENDALE AND THE SAN GABRIEL VALLEY ARE ALSO WORTH DISCOVERING.

➺Pasadena is no ordinary bedroom community, with Craftsman-style bungalows hinting at a worldOld Pasadena

A tribute to foresighted urban planning is the 22-square block shopping district known as Old Pasadena, roughly bounded by Walnut Street and Del Mar Boulevard, Arroyo Parkway and Pasadena Avenue. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the district contains restored buildings and trendy boutiques, clubs and restaurants such as Cheval Bistro and Haven Gastropub + Brewery. Pedestrian-only alleys meander through One Colorado, where chic shops such as Gold Bug and Oska beckon and restaurants offer alfresco dining overlooking a sculpturestrewn square. A few steps east of Old Pasadena lies Paseo Colorado, a shopping and dining center with ArcLight Cinemas and upscale shops such as Coach and BCBG Max Azria lining garden promenades.This mixed-use development’s open-air design frames views of such historic structures as Pasadena City Hall (100 N. Garfield Ave.).

Playhouse District + South Lake Avenue

Anchored by the Mission-style Pasadena

Playhouse, this district is filled with upscale antique shops, boutiques and dining rooms with ornate façades. Also present is the Le Cordon Bleu-affiliated College of Culinary Arts, with a restaurant open to the public, and the famed Ice House comedy club. The neighboring Boston Court Performing Arts Center presents dramas and musicals. The pagodacrowned Pacific Asia Museum features decorative arts from every corner of Asia, and the Pasadena Museum of California Art celebrates Golden State painters and sculptors from 1850 to the present. Just east of the Playhouse District, South Lake Avenue is a vibrant, 12-block shopping and dining district. At the Commons and Burlington Arcade, charming boutiques are set around European-style courtyards. Farther south on Lake Avenue is the opulent, historic Langham Huntington Hotel.

Orange Grove Boulevard

This wide boulevard, once called Millionaire’s Row, is still lined with splendid estates, including the former Wrigley Mansion, which now houses the Tournament of Roses Association and is open for tours.

The immediate neighborhood features the legacy of architects Frank Lloyd Wright, Wallace Neff and Paul Williams. The genius of Greene & Greene, pioneers of the Arts & Crafts movement, is evident at the Gamble House, also open to the public. Just around the corner on Colorado Boulevard is the Norton Simon Museum, home to one of the finest art collections in America. The galleries at this museum are filled with masterpieces from the Renaissance to the 20th century, and its repertoire of Impressionist masters (Degas, Cézanne, van Gogh) is impressive. It also features extensive art from India and a tribute to Monet in a lovely sculpture garden.

San Marino + South Pasadena

In the exclusive residential community of San Marino is the Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens, one of the most remarkable pieces of real estate in Southern California. Here the beautifully restored Italianate mansion of railroad magnate Henry Huntington is packed with 18th- and 19th-century art including Thomas Gainsborough’s Blue Boy and Sir Thomas

FROM LEFT: DALE BERMAN; EDWIN SANTIAGO. OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN

renowned architectural heritage, and institutions such as the Tournament of Roses and Caltech giving the community a gravitas far beyond its size. In nearby San Gabriel Valley, additional treasures await.

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NEW IN TOWN Brand 158

Casual restaurant across from the Americana at Brand shopping complex features California fare and a no-tipping concept. 158 S. Brand Blvd., Glendale, 818.305.2861

Old Town Shaving Co. and Bea’s Knees Wine, Cheese & Gift Shop Comprehensive shave shop and adjacent gift basket and gourmet store open in the Shoppes at Stats. 120 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena, 626.795.9308

Home Brewed Bar

Unpretentious Old Pasadena tea and coffee shop specializes in cold-brewed coffees and teas. 39 N. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena, 626.397.2887

Gamble House in Pasadena. Opposite, from left: Window shoppers on Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena; the Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino

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The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Garden’s natural Southern California habitat is famous for its wild peafowl.

ering neon obelisk is the Alex Theatre (216 N. Brand Blvd.), an art deco masterpiece that hosts concerts and musicals. Just north of downtown Glendale is the delightful community of Montrose, with its homespun shops and all-American diners. Nearby is sprawling Descanso Gardens, home to North America’s largest camellia collection, fully in bloom from January to February.

San Gabriel Valley

Public art near Pasadena City Hall

Lawrence’s Pinkie. A library with 600,000 rare books and manuscripts occupies another structure. Throughout the 200-acre property are more than one dozen distinct botanical environments, re-creating native habitats from England, China and elsewhere. Tea service is offered in a cottage amid a formal rose garden. Directly south of Old Pasadena is the independent municipality of South Pasadena, a shady, tranquil community. The Mission West historic district, particularly Mission Street, is packed with antique shops, galleries and cafes. The town is particularly kidfriendly, thanks to adorable shops such as the Dinosaur Farm and Fair Oaks Pharmacy, a 1915 restored drugstore with a soda fountain.

Eagle Rock + Glendale

Just west of Pasadena is Eagle Rock, a quiet college town that is reinventing itself as a hip neighborhood with an understated bohochic vibe. Students from Occidental College,

G R E AT F I N D

where a young Barack Obama studied, mingle with young couples who have snapped up the hillside real estate. Its main drag of Colorado Boulevard is suddenly lined with one trendy cafe after another, from Vietnamese and French to Italian and vegetarian. On the other side of Eagle Rock is Glendale. Office workers pour out of high-rises for happy hour at The Americana at Brand, an open-air shopping, residential and entertainment development. Here, find value at H&M or splurge at boutiques such as Kate Spade. It’s a great place for a movie followed by a snack from Crumbs Bake Shop or sushi and cocktails at Katsuya. The trilevel indoor shopping center Glendale Galleria is adjacent. Its department stores include Nordstrom, Macy’s and Target, and specialty boutiques include Banana Republic, Coach and Tilly’s. Glendale’s diverse population—it’s home to one of the largest Armenian communities in America—provides plenty of flavor, including elaborate restaurants. Marked by a tow-

Kissing Pasadena’s eastern border is Sierra Madre, a quaint community that refuses to be paved over. Arcadia is home to Santa Anita Park, one of the most storied thoroughbred horse racing venues in the world. Adjacent to the racetrack is Westfield Santa Anita, an ever-expanding shopping center. The 127-acre Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Garden’s natural Southern California habitat is famous for its wild peafowl; you might see a flock crossing nearby streets. The 1771 San Gabriel Mission is a notable landmark in the neighboring city of San Gabriel. The San Gabriel Valley cities of San Gabriel, Temple City, Alhambra and Monterey Park have drawn large numbers of Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants in recent decades, and some of the best Chinese restaurants in America are found here, including Hong Kong-style seafood houses that are great fun for dim sum brunches. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see page 102.

/ generalizations

has amassed a serious local fan base for its expertly edited selection of clothing and housewares. Now, Pasadena gets a slice of the action with the arrival of the brand’s second location, boasting the store’s usual chic suspects (including Los Angeles designers Jenni Kayne and Raquel Allegra), as well as exclusive offerings from covetable French designer Isabel Marant and Rodin beauty products. And don’t miss events dedicated to showcasing the talents of local artists, including ceramicist Victoria Morris and graphic designer Hamish Robertson. Pasadena, don’t be surprised to see a few curious Silver Lakers headed your way. 26 Smith Alley, Pasadena, 626.440.1603, mohawkgeneralstore.com—L.M.

TOP: JOSEPH LLANES

➺A longtime favorite on the Silver Lake retail scene, Mohawk General Store

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OPBD-0

ust 15 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, and conveniently situated along the Metro Gold Line, Old Pasadena is a vibrant hub of world-class shopping, dining, arts, and entertainment. Comprised of 22 blocks of nationally-registered historic architecture, Old Pasadena is widely recognized as a premier destination and one of the few truly walkable urban districts in California. Come explore more than 300 specialty boutiques, exclusive retailers, sidewalk cafés, and fine restaurants in this authentic main street experience.

Shopping is fun at this high-end designer resale store, offering the best of recent and vintage Chanel, Vuitton, Prada and more!

Clothes Heaven

111 E. Union St. 626.440.0929 clothesheaven.com

An eclectic blend of fresh ingredients and creative eats, in a cool, hip scene, where ‘The Art of Eating Healthy’ is the order of the day!

A contemporary cabinet of curiosities with a museum perspective on current artists, jewelers, and designers.

1810 Restaurant brings Argentina to Old Pasadena with authentic cuisine and great wines! Downtown LA location opens Spring 2014.

Pita Jungle

Gold Bug

1810 Restaurant

43 E. Colorado Blvd. 626.432.7482 pitajungle.com

22 E. Union St. 626.744.9963 goldbugpasadena.com

121 W. Colorado Blvd. 626.795.5658 1810restaurant.com

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EXPLORING

The Valley HOLLYWOOD MIGHT BE THE SPIRITUAL CENTER OF THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY, BUT THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY, AKA “THE OTHER SIDE OF THE HILL,” IS WHERE MOVIE-MAKING MAGIC HAPPENS.

➺The Valley is a sprawling collection of bedroom communities whose population approaches

2 million. Immortalized in movies as diverse as Chinatown and Valley Girl, the area derives its name from Mission San Fernando Rey de España, the historic landmark on the Valley’s northernmost edge. Just a couple of Metro stops north of the heart of Hollywood is Universal City, a major entertainment industry outpost. The highlight is certainly Universal Studios Hollywood, which offers a behind-thescenes peek into moviemaking. The theme park offers some rollicking roller coasters as well as high-tech virtual-reality action rides such as the Transformers Ride and King Kong 360 3-D, created by film director Peter Jackson. Make like Brad and Angelina and splurge for Universal’s VIP Experience. Its guests are pampered like celebrities, getting tours of the studio’s prop warehouses and cutting to the front of the line for every ride. Among the wide-ranging attractions next door at pedestrian-only Universal CityWalk are sky-diving simulations at iFLY Hollywood, an exhilarating wind tunnel, mechanical bull riding at Saddle Ranch Chop House, stand-up performances at Jon Lovitz Comedy Club, raucous performances at piano bar Howl at the Moon and rockand-roll bowling at Jillian’s Hi Life Lanes. Boutiques such as Abercrombie & Fitch,

Lush Cosmetics and Guess Accessories will loosen your wallet.

Burbank

The “beautiful downtown Burbank” that Johnny Carson used to poke fun at has grown into a cosmopolitan hub with 80 restaurants, 200 shops and 30 movie screens. Burbank Town Center (201 E. Magnolia Blvd.) offers a major mall shopping experience, but surrounding streets, such as historic San Fernando Boulevard, have a more homegrown feel with hip shops and trendy bistros such as Granville Café. Magnolia Park, a quaint commercial district centered at Magnolia Boulevard and Hollywood Way, offers cafes, antique shops and boutiques including Encore Nouveau and Swift. Massive Porto’s Bakery offers excellent pastries and sandwiches from the owners’ native Cuba and from Europe, too, and the iconic Bob’s Big Boy hosts a classiccar show every Friday. DeBell Golf Club is open to the public and offers a challenging 18-hole course and a par-three course. If you’re jetting into or out of L.A., you can escape the hassles of LAX by opting for

convenient, uncongested Bob Hope Airport in Burbank. It offers nonstop flights to many cities across the country and reduces stress, especially for visitors to the San Fernando Valley, Pasadena or San Gabriel Valley communities.

Burbank’s Studios

While the Valley may be dismissed by Westside hipsters, there’s as much Hollywood going on here as in Hollywood itself, thanks to the presence of several studios in Burbank. Go behind the scenes of your favorite shows at the Warner Bros. Studios VIP tour, which offers back-lot tours similar to those at Universal, and all of the studios recruit audience members for tapings of sitcoms and talk shows. Audiences Unlimited is among the ticketing agencies offering the best opportunities to score free tickets to tapings.

North Hollywood

North Hollywood wasn’t much of a tourist destination until the community transformed its commercial core into the NoHo Arts District, now filled with nearly two

FROM LEFT: DALE BERMAN; IAN WHITE. OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN

Universal City

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dozen professional theaters, including the landmark El Portal Theatre. These venues present some of the most innovative stage performances in L.A., as neighboring dance studios and art galleries contribute to the scene. With the addition of new restaurants like the Federal Bar, a lively gastropub with a full calendar of music and comedy, the momentum continues for this transit-linked urban village. From NoHo’s Metro station, you can access central Hollywood and downtown via the Red Line subway, or board the Orange Line, a surprisingly sleek express bus that traverses the entire San Fernando Valley.

Ventura Boulevard

This iconic, palm-lined boulevard stretches 20 miles from one end of the San Fernando Valley to the other. Immortalized in music by Frank Zappa and Tom Petty, the boulevard is an integral part of L.A. culture. As it stretches through Studio City, it’s lined with an eclectic mix of eateries, from entertainment-industry-favored Art’s Deli to elegant Bistro Garden, not to mention a greater concentration of acclaimed sushi bars (Katsu-ya, Asanebo) than Little Tokyo. For shopping, there are hip boutiques including Dari and stylish retreats such as Belle Visage Day Spa, owned by Kirsten Dunst’s mother. Hip bars and supper clubs including Firefly have helped to launch a nightlife scene. You’ll see plenty of famous faces in the Valley, where celebrities treasure its more family-oriented lifestyle. Farther west, as the boulevard winds its way through Sherman Oaks, you’ll encounter laid-back trattorias and bistros as well as shops such as Abundance, a boutique showcasing plus-size designer fashions. Sherman Oaks is also home to Westfield Fashion Square, anchored by Bloomingdale’s and featuring Zara, BCBG Max Azria and Lucky Brand boutiques in a particularly pleasant, upscale environment. Sherman Oaks Galleria is near the junction of the 405 and 101 freeways; draws include ArcLight Cinemas.

Universal CityWalk in Universal City. Caption for all images Opposite, from here Caption forleft: all A confection from images here Caption renowned Porto’s for all images here Bakery Caption forinallBurbank; images NoHo Arts District in North Hollywood

Deep in the Valley

The Warner Center is a high-rise mixeduse development in Woodland Hills with restaurants such as Roy’s. Neighboring Westfield Topanga shopping center is loaded with exclusive designer boutiques, including Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo, Cartier, Hugo Boss and new David Yurman, plus anchoring department stores Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Macy’s. Farther westbound on the Ventura Freeway (U.S. 101) is Calabasas, where celebrities move for clean air and more elbow room. Upscale shopping and casual eateries live at the Commons at Calabasas

(4799 Commons Way), a pleasant open-air destination. A few exits beyond that is Westlake Village, where locals hit the spa or do lunch at the Four Seasons. Air Force One is permanently grounded at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum in neighboring Simi Valley. North on the Golden State Freeway (I-5) in Valencia, coaster enthusiasts gather at Six Flags Magic Mountain for rides too wild for Disneyland. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see page 102.

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EXPLORING

South Bay THE SOUTH BAY’S BEACHES AND HARBORS ARE ACTION-PACKED, BUT THE LIVING IS EASY. LOOK FOR OCEAN-VIEW DINING, MOM-AND-POP SHOPS AND SEASIDE ATTRACTIONS.

➺In the South Bay, the cities of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach occupy an idyllic Manhattan Beach

Nineteen miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach boasts two miles of beaches with sand so fine that developers from Waikiki Beach in Honolulu imported it in the 1920s. This laid-back city is home to many professional athletes: You may spot an L.A. Kings player as you walk along the Strand, the pedestrian promenade sandwiched between multimillion-dollar homes and the beachfront bike trail. At the end of the city’s picturesque pier, the Roundhouse Aquarium delights with touch tanks. The pier features plaques commemorating winners of the Manhattan Beach Open—the South Bay is die-hard beach-volleyball country. It’s also a playground for water-sports enthusiasts, including boogie-boarders and surfers. East of the pier along Manhattan Beach Boulevard and Manhattan Avenue are chic boutiques and a burgeoning dining scene, with restaurants such as M.B. Post (short for Manhattan Beach Post) and The Strand House drawing gourmands from across Los Angeles. Metlox plaza is a popular gathering spot, with shops such as the Beehive and hot spots including Zinc at the Shade Hotel.

Hermosa Beach

Heading south on Manhattan Avenue brings you to Pier Avenue, the heart of Hermosa Beach. Hermosa shares many characteristics of Manhattan Beach, including a scenic twomile stretch of beachfront punctuated by volleyball nets, fitness buffs weaving along the Strand (here merged with the bike path), and a pier studded with bronze plaques commemorating surfing legends. Come late afternoon, the pedestrian plaza at Pier Avenue west of Hermosa Avenue becomes a different kind of South Bay scene, thanks to spillover from hopping bars and restaurants such as Hennessey’s and Mediterraneo. Beyond Pier Plaza to the south, on Hermosa Avenue, Jay Leno draws crowds to the Comedy & Magic Club with Sunday night shows. To the plaza’s east, the eco-friendly cafe/ boutique Gum Tree is a charming standout among the specialty shops and bistros that line Pier Avenue. Across the street, Becker’s carries surfboards and beachwear.

Redondo Beach

The largest of L.A. County’s beach cities, Redondo Beach is home to the 1,457-seat

Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center and a recreational waterfront featuring two miles of sandy beaches, the popular Redondo Beach Pier and King Harbor. Sepulveda Boulevard becomes Pacific Coast Highway as it enters town; signs point west to King Harbor’s Redondo Beach Marina, one of four marinas in the harbor. Here, you find businesses such as Redondo Sportfishing offering recreational fishing excursions and whale-watching tours, while other local outfitters rent kayaks, paddle boats, bicycles and wave runners. South of the harbor, the historic Redondo Beach Pier has had its ups and downs, but it keeps rising from the ashes to attract locals and visitors to quick-andcasual eateries, amusements and souvenir shops. South of the pier, the gentle waves and somewhat narrow beach of Redondo State Beach draw crowds during the summer, while the bike path meanders by on its way to its terminus at Torrance State Beach. One block east of the beach, the Riviera Village shopping district has a small-town feel, with restaurants and specialty boutiques such as Lisa Z. and the Catalina Cooking Store covering a six-block radius.

THIS PAGE: LISA ROMEREIN. OPPOSITE: EDWIN SANTIAGO

coastal stretch renowned for surfing, volleyball and expensive real estate. Farther south beckon the bluffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and beyond them, the bustling waterfronts of San Pedro and Long Beach.

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NEW IN TOWN

DĂa de Campo

Surf lodge-meetsmodern cocina, from the team behind Little Sister. 1238 Hermosa Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.379.1829

Splendid

Los Angeles-based label delivers supercute and comfy knits. 329 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.546.6081

Trina Turk

Lifestyle brand brings Palm Springs style to the beach. 333 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.303.3153

Korean Bell of Friendship in San Pedro. Opposite, from left: Aquarium of the PaciďŹ c in Long Beach; Gum Tree boutique in Hermosa Beach

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Among Long Beach’s most popular draws is the 1,020-foot-long Queen Mary, a historic, supposedly haunted ship-turned-hotel.

Manhattan Beach is prime surfing territory and renowned for its fine sand.

Palos Verdes Peninsula

Beyond Redondo Beach rises the Palos Verdes Peninsula, a rugged 26-square-mile area known for majestic bluffs that afford sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Catalina Island. Hugging the coast on Palos Verdes Drive West brings you to Rancho Palos Verdes’ Point Vicente Interpretive Center, a marine museum and popular gray-whale-watching site during the annual migration. Eight miles inland on Crenshaw Boulevard sprawls the 87-acre South Coast Botanic Garden in tony Palos Verdes Estates. Just beyond the interpretive center on Palos Verdes Drive West is the Wayfarers Chapel, designed by Lloyd Wright. The impressive Swedenborgian “glass church” is a popular wedding venue. The Mediterranean-style Terranea Resort, just south of the chapel, offers fine dining and a public nine-hole golf course. A couple of miles south, the 18-hole public course at Trump National Golf Club is top-ranked.

G R E AT F I N D

San Pedro

The multicultural city of San Pedro, on the southeastern side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, was once the largest commercial fishing port in the nation. Today, it’s home to the Port of Los Angeles, a container port that also serves travelers on the Catalina Express and more than 1 million cruise passengers annually. From the port’s World Cruise Center, a trolley takes visitors downtown to the waterfront restaurants and shops of the New England-style Ports O’ Call Village, and then to the marina, part of the Cabrillo Beach Recreational Complex. The complex includes the Frank Gehry-designed Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, located next to Cabrillo Beach. Windsurfers of all abilities congregate here, with outfitters including Captain Kirk’s (525 N. Harbor Blvd.) offering rentals and lessons.

Long Beach

In the southwest corner of L.A. County, Long Beach boasts a busy commercial port,

an attraction-packed waterfront and more than five miles of beaches. Among its most popular draws is the 1,020-foot-long Queen Mary, a historic, supposedly haunted shipturned-hotel, dining and shopping attraction permanently moored in Long Beach Harbor. Alongside it is the Cold War-era Russian Foxtrot Submarine. The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center and The Pike at Rainbow Harbor entertainment complex are nearby, as is the Aquarium of the Pacific and the familyfriendly Shoreline Village. From the village, you can rent bicycles and follow the Shoreline pedestrian bike path 3.1 miles along the water, passing the Long Beach Museum of Art. The path ends at the tony Belmont Shore neighborhood. Here you’ll find restaurants and shops along 2nd street, Bay Shore Beach, the Belmont Pier, windsurfing and kite-surfing lessons, and even gondola rides through the canals of Naples. Downtown, along 4th Street between Junipero and Cherry avenues, vintage furniture and clothing shops such as the Vintage Collective make up funky “Retro Row.” In the emergent East Village Arts District, hip galleries and boutiques are sprouting where Linden Avenue meets Broadway. Farther east, an impressive collection of modern and contemporary works decks the walls of the Museum of Latin American Art. For bold items, see listings in the where guide. For a detailed map of these neighborhoods, see page 101.

/ beach babes

beachy-modern gifts, including a small but spot-on selection of kids’ items. Now, that selection has room to grow: Gum Tree Kids is open a stone’s throw away on Pier Avenue, offering a colorful and covetable selection of wears and wares from brands such as Petit Bateau, Bla Bla Kids, Little Auggie, Jellycat, Lucky Jade, Janod and Winter Water Factory. From whimsical board books to creativitysparking craft kits and soft sleepers to darling crib bedding, each item reflects owner (and mother of two) Lori Ford’s effortless style and knack for choosing items parents and their tots simply can’t resist. 323 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.376.5107, gumtreela.com

TOP: ASHOK SINHA

➺South Bay locals count on Hermosa Beach’s Gum Tree Shop & Cafe for cool,

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DISCOVER DISCOVER THE THE LA LA WATERFRONT WATERFRONT AT AT THE THE PORT PORT OF OF LOS LOS ANGELES ANGELES

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Join the celebration at labattleship.com

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THE BOOK OF MORMON NATIONAL TOUR, PHOTO JOAN MARCUS

where

the guide

THEATER

Book It Along with Tony Award-winning collaborator Robert Lopez (Avenue Q), South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone turn their irreverent and hysterically smart senses of humor into theatrical gold with The Book of Mormon. Winner of nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Score, the musical employs big song-and-dance numbers and joyful profanity to tell the story of two mismatched Mormon missionaries in Uganda. Catch the national tour of the smash hit during its run at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood through May 11. 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.468.1770

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Dining SPOTLIGHT

American

Guidelines

ALLUMETTE Diners here are urged to devise their own tasting menus from small plates of “avant-garde comfort food.” Start with rising chef Miles Thompson’s carrot salad with sunchokes, radishes and pickled turnips, moving on to a luscious cavatelli with uni ragu. With so many petite plates, it’s all too easy to rack up a big bill. D (Tu–Sa). 1320 Echo Park Ave., Echo Park, 213.935.8787 $$$$ Map southeast of W23

Index

ANIMAL Bare-bones eatery, from the guys known as the “Two Dudes” to Food Network fans, is a carnivore’s dream. Think delectable takes on offal (such as crispy pig’s ear) and a bacon-chocolate crunch bar for dessert. D (nightly). 435 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.782.9225 $$$ Map I13 CLAIM JUMPER Saloon-style eatery features hearty grill fare and its own label of craft beer. L, D (daily). 3500 W. Olive Ave., Burbank, 818.260.0505; 820 W. Huntington Drive, Monrovia, 626.359.0463; 9429 Tampa Ave., Northridge, 818.718.2882; 25740 The Old Road, Valencia, 661.254.2628; 6501 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach, 562.431.1321 $ Map T22, Q23, northeast of A1, D4

Bird’s-Eye View

Located on the 24th floor of the Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, in the happening L.A. Live complex, Wolfgang Puck’s new restaurant and lounge concept NEST at WP24 serves as an atmospheric vantage point from which to survey downtown action and grab a delicious pregame or concert bite. Chef Puck’s take on modern Chinese cuisine, which earns raves at his adjacent WP24 restaurant, shines here in a new menu featuring snacks, appetizers, larger plates and desserts. A tempting cocktail menu and wine list are on offer, too. Don’t miss the baby pork belly bao buns or the nottoo-sweet matcha green tea doughnuts with Yuzu-cream dipping sauce, pictured above. p. 74

CRAFT New York chef Tom Colicchio of TV’s Top Chef brings his signature concept to L.A. The restaurant delivers an endless, contemporary American a la carte menu, with fun, shareable dishes including roasted octopus with romesco and diver scallops with vermouth butter. L (M–F), D (M–Sa). 10100 Constellation Blvd., L.A., 310.279.4180 $$$$ Map K11 EVELEIGH With a menu chockablock with farm-fresh veggies and meats and a country-chic space, Eveleigh projects an image of cool rusticity. The kitchen endeavors to use house-made ingredients right down to the apple gomme syrup in your cocktail and the brioche toast slices with your Jidori chicken liver pâté. Br (Sa– Su), D (nightly). 8752 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.239.1630 $$ Map H12 HINOKI & THE BIRD David Myers (Comme Ça) shows his admiration of Japanese and Southeast Asian flavors in dishes such as lobster rolls with green curry and Thai basil and black cod scented with the smoke of the namesake hinoki wood. L (Tu-F), D (Tu–Sa). 10 W. Century Drive, Century City, 310.552.1200 $$$ Map J10 INK. L.A.’s culinary darling du jour, Top Chef winner Michael Voltaggio, showcases daring, thoughtful molecular gastronomy at his first restaurant. Get a fivecourse tasting menu or explore à la carte small plates including tuna with dashi “sponge,” poutine with lamb neck gravy and chickpea fries, and Brussels sprouts with pig ears and cuttlefish. D (nightly). 8360 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.651.5866 $$$ Map I12

Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps in the back of this issue. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

American..............................66 Breweries/Gastropubs.... 67 British...................................... 67 California...............................68 Chinese..................................68 Eclectic/Fusion...................68 French.....................................68 Italian......................................70 Japanese................................. 71

Korean.................................... 73 Mediterranean.................... 73 Mexican/Latin.................... 74 Pan-Asian.............................. 74 Quick Bites........................... 74 Seafood.................................. 74 Spanish.................................. 74 Steak....................................... 74 Thai.......................................... 76

MUSSO & FRANK GRILL Hollywood’s oldest (1919). Enjoy flannel cakes, lobster Thermidor and Welsh rarebit with the martini; legend has it that this place invented the drink. B, L, D (Tu–Sa). 6667 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.7788 $$ Map H13 NOÉ Visitors heading to the Museum of Contemporary Art or Walt Disney Concert Hall find Noé a convenient spot for a classy repaste. Noé serves a “neo-bistro” menu with Mediterranean turbot meunière with sauteed watercress and rigatoni with house-cured sausage. D (nightly). Omni Hotel, 251 S. Olive St., downtown, 213.356.4100 $$ Map H16 R+D KITCHEN Bustling industrial-style eatery with salads, sandwiches, meat loaf and more. L, D (daily). 1323 Montana Ave., Santa Monica, 310.395.3314 $$ Map K8 SADDLE PEAK LODGE Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, this hunt-lodge-themed spot is a study in romantic rusticity, with moose heads overlooking candlelit tables. The menu focuses on game dishes such as seared New Zealand elk tenderloin or grilled Texas nilgai antelope. Br (Su), D (W–Su). 419 Cold Canyon Road, Calabasas, 818.222.3888 $$$$ Map northwest of A1 SALT CREEK GRILLE Enjoy mesquite-grilled burgers, chops, steaks and seafood and an interesting selection of California beers and wines at this classic American restaurant. Outdoor patio and live music create a relaxed atmosphere. L, D (daily). 2015 E. Park Place, El Segundo, 310.335.9288 $$ Map L14 SEASONS 52 No deep-frying. No dish more than 475 calories. Lots of flavor. Stylish decor, eclectic seasonal menu, Mini Indulgences desserts and a superior wine list. L, D (daily). 1501 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.451.1152; Westfield Century City, 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Century City, 310.277.5252 $$ Maps L8, J11

JAR Chef Suzanne Tracht presents an L.A. take on traditional, comforting American fare in a chic interpretation of an old-school chophouse. A meal 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 $$$ Map I12

SECO New American cuisine, plus wine, beer and crafted cocktails, in the former Cafe 140 South space. L, D (daily). 140 S. Lake Ave, Pasadena, 626.449.9900 $$ Map R21

JOAN’S ON THIRD Celebrity-frequented cafe on busy West 3rd Street offers omelets, sandwiches, salads, soups, sweets plus picnic baskets, gourmet items. B, L, D (daily). 8350 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.655.2285 $ Map I12

THE STRAND HOUSE This South Bay restaurant with awesome ocean views is sophisticated enough to compete with any restaurant in L.A. County’s hipper parts. House-made charcuterie precedes dishes such as hamachi crudo and lobster cavatelli. Br (Sa–Su), L (Tu–F), D (Tu–Su). 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.7470 $$$ Map L13

M.B. POST Small plates of seafood, fresh-baked breads, cured meats and more in the space of a former post office. “Eat Your Vegetables” menu makes green beans, brussels sprouts and cauliflower look tantalizing. Br (Sa–Su), L (F), D (nightly). 1142 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5405 $$$ Map L13

TRUXTON’S AMERICAN BISTRO Friendly neighborhood eatery serves reinvented American classics and approachable dishes with ethnic twists. B (Sa-Su), L, D (daily) 1329 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.393.8789 $$ Map L8

A-Frame (p. 68) gets its name from the architectural structure of its Culver City address, a converted former IHOP now home to chef Roy Choi’s popular family-style restaurant.

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leandro traveled 5,000 miles to bring you his lamb chops. As you can imagine, a few stories came along for the ride. The Southern Brazilian open-fire cooking method called “churrasco” has been handed down for centuries, with each new generation of gauchos adding their own touch of culture and refinement. You can taste that tradition today at Fogo De Chão. Where gaucho chefs like Leandro prepare, cook and serve a variety of grilled meats, including steaks, sausage, tender chicken, lamb, ribs, and Leandro’s favorite, a traditionally-seasoned sirloin called “picanha.”

For a taste of Southern Brazil, visit Fogo.com.

Dining UMAMI BURGER Hot specialty burger joint; try the signature Umami Burger with tempura onion rings. L, D (daily). 4655 Hollywood Blvd., Los Feliz, 323.669.3922; 1520 Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, 323.469.3100; Fred Segal, 500 Broadway, Santa Monica, 310.451.1300; 12159 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.286.9004; additional locations at umami.com $ Map W22, H14, L8, A2 VERTICAL WINE BISTRO Sleek, contemporary wine bar and restaurant offers more than three hundred wines on its list and thirty wines by the glass. The seasonal American menu includes fun small plates, cheeses and charcuterie. D (Tu–Su). 70 N. Raymond Ave. (upstairs), Pasadena, 626.795.3999 $$$ Map Q19 WILSHIRE The woodsy, romantic deck is a coveted spot to hang out; the candle-laden bar inside is one of the Westside’s hottest. Market-driven California fare includes roasted half chicken with porcini mushroom risotto. L (M–F), D (M–Sa). 2454 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.586.1707 $$$ Map L8 WOLFGANG PUCK AT THE HOTEL BEL-AIR A favorite hideaway of Hollywood elite, the Hotel Bel-Air offers an indoor-outdoor retreat helmed by the father of California cuisine. Puck’s Cantonese roasted duck gets an L.A. twist with figs and fresh pea tendrils, while his take on wiener schnitzel with a marinated fingerling potato salad reminds diners of his Austrian heritage. B, D (daily), L (M–Sa), Br (Su), tea (F–Sa). 701 Stone Canyon Road, Bel-Air, 310.909.1644 $$$$ Map I10

Breweries/Gastropubs FATHER’S OFFICE Microbrew mecca; one of L.A.’s best burgers. Santa Monica: L (Sa–Su), D (nightly). Culver City: L (F–Su), D (nightly). 1018 Montana Ave., Santa Monica; Father’s Office 2, 3229 Helms Ave., Culver City. 310.736.2224 $$ Map L8, L11 FORD’S FILLING STATION Rather than follow his father, Harrison, into the movie business, Benjamin Ford went to culinary school. Entree choices emphasize comfort pub fare: fish and chips, leg of lamb and a popular Maytag blue-cheese-topped burger. Br (Sa–Su), L, D (daily). 9531 Culver Blvd., Culver City, 310.202.1470 $$ Map L11 HAVEN GASTROPUB + BREWERY L.A. importing an Orange County restaurant is rare, and so are the animals and exotic parts on Chef Greg Daniels’ menu, a love letter to meat. Begin with an appetizer of pork rillettes and end with red velvet beet cake. Many ingredients are house-made—even the truffle salt! L, D (daily). 42 S. De Lacey Ave., Pasadena, 626.768.9555 $$ Map Q19 PUBLIC KITCHEN & BAR Meat-heavy but still refined menu includes chicken liver terrine with strawberry-rhubarb marmalade sweetbreads; bar serves cured meats, cheeses and fresh, hand-crafted cocktails. Br (Su), L (M–F), D (nightly). Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, 7000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.466.7000 $$$ Map G13

British ROSE TREE COTTAGE Sweet, homey spot for English afternoon tea. Known for its freshly baked scones and gracious service from husband-and-wife owners. Seatings at 1, 2:30 and 4 pm. Adjacent gift shop. High tea (Tu–Su). 801 S. Pasadena Ave., Pasadena, 626.793.3337 $$ Map R19

133 N. La Cienega Blvd. | Beverly Hills, CA | 310-289-7755

WATERLOO & CITY Located on an unremarkable strip in Culver City is this surprisingly hip English gastropub dishing out house-made charcuterie, gourmet pizzas topped with green chorizo and Indian butter chicken, and spot-on cocktails. It’s certainly L.A.’s most sophisticated pub grub. Wash it down with updated classic cocktails. D (nightly). 12517 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.391.4222 $$ Map M10

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Crab cakes at Crossroads Kitchen on Melrose Avenue

YE OLDE KING’S HEAD Pub/restaurant with cozy dining rooms, fish and chips, high tea, gift shop. B, L, D (daily), high tea (M-Sa). 116 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.451.1402 $ Map L8

California Cuisine AKASHA Chef-owner Akasha Richmond takes ecoconsciousness to new heights with sustainable décor and organic food ingredients “whenever possible.” The menu of comfort food includes humanely raised meats and intriguing vegetarian plates. B, L (M–F), D (nightly). 9543 Culver Blvd., Culver City, 310.845.1700 $$ CHAYA The original Chaya in Japan remains open after 390 years, and Chaya’s popularity endures in Los Angeles, too. The Japanese-accented French/Italian menus are accomplished and innovative. L (M–F), D (nightly). 8741 Alden Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.859.8833; 525 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.236.9577; 110 Navy St., Venice, 310.396.1179 $$ Map I11, H16, M8 COOKS COUNTY The owners of Silver Lake’s beloved Barbrix open another winner. An edited menu of pastas, seafood, braised and slow-roasted meats, and simple starters lists the dozens of family farms from which the restaurant sources. The kitchen makes many of its own ingredients, down to condiments and cured meats. Br (Sa–Su), L (M–F), D (nightly). 8009 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.653.8009 $$ Map I12 FARMSHOP At this cheery bakery and restaurant with a killer brunch, try salmon rillettes with caper berries and toasted rye. Three-course family-style dinners are served nightly, with the restaurant’s famous fried chicken the star of the meal on Sundays. B, L (M–F), Br (Sa–Su), D (nightly). Brentwood Country Mart, 225 26th St., Santa Monica, 310.566.2400 $$ Map K8 HATFIELD’S Husband-and-wife chef team Quinn and Karen Hatfield combine their talents in the savory and sweet departments, respectively. Guests might dine on Quinn’s reinvented croque madame with yellowtail sashimi, prosciutto and quail egg, or Karen’s heavenly sugar-and-spice beignets. D (nightly). 6703 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.935.2977 $$$ Map I13 INN OF THE SEVENTH RAY There’s a New Age feel here, but you don’t have to be a believer to fall in love with this place, which boasts candlelit tables scattered along a burbling creek. Consider a charcoal-grilled filet mignon with watercress, baby leeks, carrots and potato foam. Br (Sa-Su), L (M–F), D (nightly). 128 Old Topanga Canyon Road, Topanga, 310.455.1311 $$ Map B1 MAR’SEL Overlook sparkling peninsula while dining on dishes with produce and herbs from chef’s on-site garden; dishes include prime hanger steak, crispy duck confit. D (nightly), Br (Su). Terranea Resort, 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, 310.265.2836 $$$$ Map O13

MILO & OLIVE The husband-and-wife team behind Rustic Canyon opens a tiny, casual pizzeria and bakery. Expect to make friends with your neighbors; seating is communal tables and bar only. Zoe Nathan’s desserts and pastries shouldn’t be missed. B (M-F), Br (SaSu), L, D (daily). 2723 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.453.6776 $$ Map K9

OCEAN SEAFOOD Vast and boisterous spot serves amazing array of traditional dishes, superfresh seafood, top-of-the-line dim sum. B, L, D (daily). 750 N. Hill St., Chinatown, 213.687.3088 $$ Map G17

PARKWAY GRILL This handsome dining room boasts one of Pasadena’s best restaurants and a diverse menu including tiger shrimp corndogs, prosciuttoand-arugula pizza, duck breast with cherry reduction. L (M–F), D (nightly). 510 S. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena, 626.795.1001 $$$ Map N16

A-FRAME Roy Choi, whose Kogi launched a thousand food trucks, offers an eclectic comfort-food menu (beer-can chicken, furikake kettle corn) with Korean influences. List of craft beers and signature cocktails are also on offer. L (Sa–Su), D (nightly). 12565 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.398.7700 $$ Map M10

POLO LOUNGE Legendary celebrity watering hole. McCarthy salad is a perennial favorite; great people watching. Reservation recommended. B, D (daily), L (M–Sa), Br (Su). Beverly Hills Hotel, 9641 Sunset Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.887.2777 $$$ Map I11

BABOUCH MOROCCAN Authentic Moroccan cuisine served in a tent-like atmosphere. Live belly dancing. D (Tu-Su). 810 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro, 310.831.0246 $$ Map D3

RUSTIC CANYON Discover boutique wines while sampling small plates of market-driven, Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Clam-chile pozole and hamachi chido are just a few of the winners. Hide in a cozy booth or mingle at the communal table. D (nightly). 1119 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.393.7050 $$$ Map L8 SPAGO A Los Angeles institution, Wolfgang Puck’s recently remodeled flagship restaurant features a modern dining room and small-plate offerings of barbecued sting ray with spicy sambal, and Santa Barbara spot prawns with suckling pig and persimmons. Glimpse some of the 30,000 wine bottles on offer in a glassensconced “wine wall.” L (T–Sa), D (nightly). 176 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.385.0880 $$$ Map I11 TAR & ROSES Ex-Wilshire Restaurant chef Andrew Kirschner’s first restaurant focuses on small, rustic shareable plates cooked in his wood-burning oven, but with a few days’ notice he can also whip up large, lavish family-style suppers of Moroccan-spiced goat or standing rib rack. D (nightly). 602 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.587.0700 $$$ Map L8

Eclectic/Fusion

BÄCO MERCAT Sizzling hot chef Josef Centeno has drawn international praise for his uniquely inspired creations. The bäco, a flatbread sandwich filled with ingredients such as oxtail hash or chicken escabeche, is his signature dish. Other selections on the diverse menu include buttermilk-fried quail and spicy hamachi crudo. Br (Sa-Su), L (M-F), D (nightly). 408 S. Main St., downtown, 213.687.8808 $$ Map I16 GORDON RAMSAY The tyrant from TV’s Hell’s Kitchen arrives in L.A. to demonstrate why he has racked up more than a dozen Michelin stars. The restaurant is a hip setting in which to enjoy eclectically inspired dishes. Boxwood Café is adjacent. D (nightly). London West Hollywood, 1020 N. San Vicente Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.358.7788 $$$$ Map H11 MAISON AKIRA Fine French cuisine with Japanese flair (such as a bento box with Kobe beef, miso sea bass and chawanmushi) in Pasadena’s playhouse district. Ten-course omakase available. Br (Su), L (F), D (Tu–Su). 713 E. Green St., Pasadena, 626.796.9501 $$$ Map Q20

THE TASTING KITCHEN Foodies come for the daily changing menu of innovative yet unpretentious cuisine from culinary darling chef Casey Lane: small or large plates of cured meats, artisan cheeses, vegetables, seafood and pastas. Br (Sa–Su), D (nightly). 1633 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.392.6644 $$$ Map M9

RED MEDICINE The slightly Vietnamese-inspired restaurant doesn’t hew to traditions, but the results are intriguing—and visually delicious—presentations. The menu also includes some Pan-Asian dishes such as chicken dumplings, green papaya salad and lamb belly with hoisin sauce. Open late. D (nightly). 8400 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 323.651.5500 $$$ Map J12

TAVERN Chef Suzanne Goin’s third L.A. restaurant explores rustic Cal-Med fare in chic environs, including a popular sunlit indoor patio. The frequently changing menu might include “devil’s chicken” with leeks and mustard breadcrumbs or Arctic char with orangefennel salad. B, L, D (daily), Br (Sa–Su). 11648 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.806.6464 $$$ Map J9

TROIS MEC The holy foodie trinity of Ludo Lefebvre (LudoBites) and Vinny Dotolo and Jon Shook (Animal, Son of a Gun) open hot restaurant in a 24-seat former pizzeria. Diners must purchase advance tickets via the restaurant’s website to enjoy Lefebvre’s prix-fixe, five-course meal.. D (M–F). 716 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, troismec.com $$$$ Map H13

208 RODEO This Mediterranean-influenced gem of a cafe spills onto cobblestone via at luxe Two Rodeo. Dishes include Tuscan market salad and seafood capellini. B, L, D (daily). Two Rodeo, 208 Via Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.275.2428 $$ Map J11

French

Chinese CHI LIN Chinese goes Hollywood! Cecile Tang of Beverly Hills’ Joss Cuisine consulted on the Cal-Chinese menu, served in a strikingly sexy dining room featuring hundreds of pendant lamps and striking optical art with real butterfly wings. D (nightly). 9201 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2068 $$$$ Map I12 MR. CHOW This L.A. edition of sceney restaurants in New York and London offers Imperial Beijing cuisine. Beverly Hills: L (M–F), D (nightly). Malibu: D (nightly). 344 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.278.9911; Malibu Country Mart, 3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.7600 $$$ Map I11, K7

BOUCHON The Bouchon bistros from chef Thomas Keller (the French Laundry, Per Se) have become popular for their authentic good looks and superbly executed cuisine. One might begin with salmon rillettes followed by poulet rôti or a croque madame. Br (Sa–Su), L (M–F), D (nightly). 235 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.271.9910 $$$ Map J11 CAFÉ PINOT This glass box of a restaurant adjacent to Central Library offers romantic outdoor dining, skyline views—from bottom up—and contemporary Cal-French cuisine from the Patina group. L (M–F), D (nightly). 700 W. 5th St., downtown, 213.239.6500 $$$ Map H16 CÉZANNE Lovely, lauded Cal-French dining at beachfront hotel near the Santa Monica Pier. B, L, D (daily). Le Merigot, 1740 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.395.9700 $$$ Map L8

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Dining CHEVAL BISTRO The Smith Brothers (Smitty’s Grill, Arroyo Chophouse) take on the classics of French bistro fare—bouillabaisse, steak frites, coq au vin. Br (Su), D (Wu–Su). 41 S. DeLacey Ave., Pasadena, 626.577.4141 $$$ Map Q19 CHURCH & STATE Located in the historic Biscuit Co. Lofts, this downtown eatery has a hip clientele— downtown residents and commuters waiting out rush hour—who crowd the dining room or linger on the patio to soak up the vibe of an authentic French brasserie. L (M–F), D (nightly). 1850 Industrial St., downtown, 213.405.1434 $$ Map J17 COMME ÇA Chef David Myers has turned his attention to more casual French fare at this inviting brasserie with a sophisticated modern aesthetic. All the classics are here, including tarte flambé, beef tartare, coq au vin, bouillabaisse and steak frites. Br (Sa–Su), D (Tu–Su). 8479 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.782.1104 $$ Map I12 DELPHINE Just off the soaring lobby of the chic W Hollywood Hotel & Residences, demure Delphine establishes a laid-back ambience with vintage photo murals and wood barreled ceilings. Chef Sascha Lyon’s entrees include braised short ribs with roasted root vegetables. B, L, D (daily), Br (Sa–Su). W Hollywood, 6250 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.798.1355 $$$ Map H13 KENDALL’S BRASSERIE Located at the Music Center, Kendall’s is a convenient spot before or after a performance. In addition to dishes with a contemporary flair, all the brasserie favorites are here: fruits de mer, moules frites and braised lamb shank. L (daily), D (Tu–Su; M varies). 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.7322 $$ Map H16 LE KA Chef David Féau sprinkles global touches into his bill of fare, such as handmade papardelle with chorizo and lobster broth and Merguez sausage with mint yogurt, currants and zucchini. The mixology program features riffs on classic cocktails such as the Negroni. L (M–F), D (M-Sa). 800 W. 6th St., downtown, 213.688.3000 $$ Map I16 THE LITTLE DOOR For a candlelit dinner in an elegant setting, this is the reservation ne plus ultra. Dine on rustic dishes under the stars or by a crackling fireplace in one of four intimate, romantic dining areas. D (nightly). 8164 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.951.1210 $$$ Map I12 MAISON GIRAUD Alain Giraud’s simple neighborhood restaurant dishes out classic bistro fare and specialties influenced by Alsace and his native Provence; wife Catherine runs the adjacent home-goods boutique, Lavender Blue. B, D (Tu-Sa), Br (Sa, Su), L (Tu-F). 1032 Swarthmore Ave., Pacific Palisades, 310.459.7561 $$$ Map K7

Be magically transported to colorful Morocco and the beginning of a never ending feast. Babouch serves exquisite, authentic Moroccan cuisine in a tent like atmosphere with belly dancing nightly. Specialties include lamb, brochette of beef, cous cous, seafood and shrimp.

MÉLISSE At Mélisse, among L.A.’s highest-rated restaurants, chef-owner Josiah Citrin executes a sophisticated modern French menu filled with luxe ingredients. Start with lobster bolognese with black truffles before superb game dishes. D (Tu–Sa). 1104 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.395.0881 $$$$ Map M8 MONSIEUR MARCEL Charming bistro, wine bar and gourmet market. Beverly Hills and Third Street Promenade: B,L,D (daily). Farmers Market: Br (Sa-Su), L, D (daily). 6333 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.932.6855; 1260 Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica, 310.587.1166; 447 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.274.7300 $$ Map I13, L8, I11 PATINA Walt Disney Concert Hall’s fine in-house restaurant. Game dishes are a frequent presence on the menu, such as wood pigeon with yams, celeriac and pear. D (Tu–Su). 141 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.3331 $$$$ Map

BabouchRestaurant.com • 810 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro • 310 831 0246

TAIX Enjoy old-school service and hearty French country cuisine such as croque monsieur and steak frites at this Echo Hill institution. L, D (daily). 1911 Sunset Blvd., Echo Park, 213.484.1265 $$ Map southeast of W23

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Dining Italian ANGELINI OSTERIA One of L.A.’s premier Italian restaurants. Chef-owner Gino Angelini demonstrates remarkable range and finesse, from sea-salt-crusted whole branzino to the heavenly lasagna in herb sauce he inherited from his grandmother. Reservation required for dinner, recommended for lunch. L (Tu–F), D (Tu–Su). 7313 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.297.0070 $$$ Map I13 BESTIA Multiregional Italian restaurant in the hip Arts District. The former executive chef at Angelini Osteria serves up such “beast”-focused dishes as hand-rolled fusilli and braised goat with housemade ricotta salata and pistachio oil, and a selection of house-cured meats. D (daily). 2121 E. 7th Place, downtown, 213.514.5724 $$$ Map east of J17 BUCA DI BEPPO Heaping, family-style portions. Call for hours. 80 W. Green St., Pasadena, 626.792.7272; 17500 Ventura Blvd., Encino, 818.995.3288; 1670 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach, 310.540.3246; 1000 Universal Studios Blvd., Universal City, 818.509.9463; bucadibeppo.com for more locations. $$ Map Q21, A1, M14, U20 CECCONI’S This London-based restaurant caters to a well-heeled clientele who come to schmooze over bellinis and cicchetti (small plates (small plates). Pastas including a beautiful agnolotti with butter and sage and seafood such as grilled octopus with capers are well executed. B, L, D (daily), Br (Sa–Su). 8764 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 310.432.2000 $$$ Map I12 CULINA A contemporary take on regional Italian cuisine is the theme at Culina, where ample coastal inspirations are evident on the menu. The modern design includes a sleek crudo bar and an impressive 25-foot chandelier. B (daily), L (M–Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, 300 S. Doheny Drive, L.A., 310.860.4000 $$$ Map J12 DRAGO CENTRO Celestino Drago’s executed Italian fare—garganelli with pork sausage and fennel seeds, truffle-crusted Jidori chicken—and extensive wine list in a contemporary and handsome space. L (M–F), D (nightly). 525 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.228.8998 $$$ Map H16 IL FORNAIO Trattoria-style favoritest. Beverly Hills: B, L, D (daily). Manhattan Beach: Br (Sa–Su), L, D (daily). Pasadena: Br (Su), L, D (daily). 301 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.550.8330; 1800 Rosecrans Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.725.9555; 24 W. Union St., Pasadena, 626.683.9797 $$ Map J11, L13, Q19 MADDALENA Dining among the casks at San Antonio Winery; fresh pastas, seafood, paninis and more served with European hospitality. B, Br (Sa–Su), L, D (daily). 737 Lamar St., L.A., 323.223.1401 $$ Map G17 MATTEO’S An old favorite of the Rat Pack endures. Burrata campana salad, mussels in white wine, ossobuco Milanese. D (Tu–Su). 2321 Westwood Blvd., L.A., 310.475.4521 $$ Map K10 OSTERIA MOZZA Famed L.A.-based bread maker Nancy Silverton teamed up with affable Mario Batali on Mozza’s duo of contemporary Italian restaurants. Osteria Mozza is a more sophisticated dining room in which to experience the repertoire of these great transcontinental talents. D (nightly). 6602 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.0100 $$$ Map H13 PAPARAZZI RISTORANTE Classic southern Italian pasta dishes, seafood and steaks served up in a contemporary-meets-Old Hollywood setting, just blocks from Los Angeles International Airport. D (M–Sa). Sheraton Gateway Hotel, 6101 Century Blvd., Westchester, 310.642.4820 $$ Map O11

TAIX_1-6h.pdf

7/22/11

11:50 AM

Country French Restaurant Family Owned & Operated Since 1927 Lunch • Dinner • Lounge • Banquets 7 days

Open Late Wed-Sat ‘til 1:00 am

Five Minutes from the Music Center 1911 Sunset Blvd. Los Angeles, Ca 90026 (213) 484-1265

www.taixfrench.com

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Spectacular Waterfront Dining Fresh Fish • Prime Rib • Hot Chocolate Lava Cake FA N TA ST IC HA P P Y H OU R Ask your hotel about your free appetizer or dessert

PIZZERIA MOZZA 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 sibling, Osteria Mozza, next door. It features pizzas with Mediterranean ingredients, cheeses and salumi plates, and rustic daily specials. L, D (daily). 641 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.297.0101 $$ Map H13 RAO’S New. New York’s highly exclusive, family-owned eatery, a legendary celeb and mob hangout, goes Hollywood. Red-sauce specialties galore; the veal meatballs are a Rao’s signature. D (Tu–Sa). 1006 Seward St., Hollywood, 323.962.7267 $$$$ Map H13 RISTORANTE AL MARE Enjoy tastes of Italy and stellar beach and pier views from the rooftop deck of this new three-story restaurant. L,D (daily). 250 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, 310.458.4448 $$ Map L8 RIVABELLA Beloved Gino Angelini (Angelini Osteria) steps in as chef-partner of this rustic Italian concept from Innovative Dining Group. L (M–F), D (nightly). 9201 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2060 $$$$ Map I12 SCARPETTA Scott Conant’s much-lauded NYC-based concept is replicated at the Montage Beverly Hills hotel. Conant is deservedly famous for dishes such as a simple, unbeatable spaghetti with tomato and basil. Br (Su), D (nightly). 225 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.860.7970 $$$ Map I11 SOLETO TRATTORIA & PIZZA BAR Contemporary Southern Italian in spacious, warehouse-chic environs. Antipasti and salads such as grilled shrimp cobb precede make-your-own gourmet pizzas and pastas accented with house-made sausages. L (M–F), D (M–Sa). 801 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.622.3255 $$ Map I16 SUPERBA SNACK BAR At Jason Neroni and Paul Hibler’s pastaria, house-made noodles are given the most attention, occasionally smoked and infused for maximum flavor. A short wine list includes only California labels, and a selection of beer- and wine-based cocktails is available. Reservations available for parties of six or more only. Br (Sa–Su), L (Th-F), D (nightly). 533 Rose Ave., Venice, 310.399.6400 $$$ Map M8

Marina del Rey 13950 Panay Way • 310.822.4144

Redondo Beach 231 Yacht Club Way • 310.372.3464

Online reservations available at chart-house.com Also visit us in Cardiff, Dana Point, Mammoth Lakes & Monterey

TERRONI Southern Italian cooking including excellent thin-crust pizza. The downtown location inhabits a historic bank building. Br (Sa–Su), L, D (daily). 802 S. Spring St., downtown, 323.934.0300; 7605 Beverly Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.934.0300. $$ Map I16, J13 TRATTORIA NEAPOLIS Pastas, gourmet Neapolitan pizzas and specialties such as rabbit porchetta and cod saltimbocca cooked using a wood-burning oven or grill. Mixologist Vincenzo Marianella handles the artisanal cocktail program, “Beer Chick” Christina Perozzi the craft beer menu. Br (Sa–Su), L, D (daily). 336 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena, 626.792.3000 $$$ Map R21

Japanese ASANEBO Hidden in a minimal but Michelin-rated, this cozy sushi bar and restaurant offers memorable sushi, seared toro in garlic cream and uni tempura in shiso leaf. L (Tu–F), D (Tu-Su). 11941 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.760.3348 $$ Map A1 BENIHANA This restaurant sees teppanyaki chefs slicing and dicing at each table and grilling up simple fare such as tender steak and chicken, savory vegetables, and shrimp and lobster, which is delivered sizzling to diners’ plates. Encino: L, D (daily). Beverly Hills: L, D (daily). Torrance: L, D (daily). Santa Monica: L, D (daily). 38 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 323.655.7311; 1447 4th St., Santa Monica, 310.260.1423; 16226 Ventura Blvd., Encino, 818.788.7121; 21327 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, 310.316.7777 $$ Map I12, L8, G9, M14

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Dining

FIND YOURSELF IN SPAIN.

KABUKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT Fun, casual atmosphere and more than 200 items from which to choose, including an extensive vegetarian menu and beverage program. Ideal place for a business, date or family meal. 13 locations in Southern California. L, D (daily). 201 N. San Fernando Blvd., Burbank, 818.843.7999; 1545 N. Vine St., Hollywood, 323.464.6003; Howard Hughes Center, 6081 Center Drive, L.A., 310.641.5524; 88 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.568.9310; 3539 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena, 626.351.8963; 20940 Ventura Blvd., Woodland Hills, 818.704.8700 $$ Map T23, H14, N11, Q19, Q22, west of A1 KATSUYA Sushi chef Katsuya Uechi turns out exotic delicacies in sultry spaces by designer Philippe Starck. From signature cocktails to king crab cooked over the robata grill to exotically flavored crème brûlées, Katsuya is never boring. L (varies by location), D (nightly). 11777 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.207.8744; 6300 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.871.8777; 702 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.244.5900; L.A. Live, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.747.9797 $$$ Map K9, H14, northeast of T23, I15 KATSU-YA Top sushi bar along the Valley’s Sushi Row; no-frills décor. Expect a crowd. Studio City: L (M–Sa), D (nightly). Encino: L (M–F), D (nightly). 11680 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.985.6976; 16542 Ventura Blvd., Encino, 818.788.2396 $$ Map U18, A1 MATSUHISA Superchef Nobu Matsuhisa’s more modest original flagship incorporates luxurious Western ingredients and Latin American spices. Monkfish liver pâté with caviar and Chilean sea bass with truffles are just a couple of his creations. L (M–F), D (nightly). 129 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.659.9639 $$$$ Map I12 NOBU The glitzy flagship of Nobu Matsuhisa attracts celebrities as well as serious foodies. An extensive menu of traditional and avant-garde sushi includes many dishes with beguiling Peruvian accents. Sakes and omakase feasts result in soaring tabs, but the cuisine measures up. West Hollywood: D (nightly). Malibu: L, D (daily). 903 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.657.5711; Nobu Malibu, 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.9140 $$$$ Map H12, east of A1 SUGARFISH Kazunori Nozawa—aka the “Sushi Nazi,” chef/owner of Studio City’s famed former Sushi Nozawa—opens a cheery, casual spot offering preset menus. Tips are included, but prices are about half those at the original. L, D (daily). 47221/4 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.306.6300; 11640 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.820.4477; 600 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.627.3000; 1345 2nd St., Santa Monica, 310.393.3338; 4799 Commons Way, Calabasas, 818.223.9966; 212 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.276.6900 $$ Map N9, K9, I16, L8, west of A1, J11 SUSHI ROKU Nouvelle Japanese, sleek décor. Creative menu includes albacore tacos, salmon sashimi with black truffles. L.A.: L (M–Sa), D (nightly). Santa Monica and Pasadena: L, D (daily). 8445 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.655.6767; 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.458.4771; 33 Miller Alley, Pasadena, 626.683.3000 $$$ Map I12, L8, Q19

Restaurant & Tapas Bar As featured on The Food Network & The Rachael Ray Show 140 Pine Avenue • Downtown Long Beach • 562 495 1111 • CafeSevilla.com 3252 Mission Inn Ave • Downtown Riverside • 951 778 0661 • CafeSevilla.com

Ye Olde King’s Head

World Famous British Pub, Restaurant, Shoppe & Bakery

British Fare, imported beers and world famous Fish & Chips. Open for breakfast weekends at 8am, Fabulous happy hour Mon–Fri 4-7pm. Traditional Afternoon Tea is served Mon-Sat 11:30am-4:30pm. Karaoke Sundays at 9pm. Heated patio. Quiz shows every Wednesday. Call for soccer schedule. Stop by the gift shoppe for food and collectibles from the British Isles, including bone china, teapots, souvenir items, tea, candy, wine, freshly baked goods and much more.

SUSHI SASABUNE Don’t ask for a California or spicy tuna roll—you’ll be swiftly denied—but do expect incredibly fresh, authentically prepared sushi. The impressive omakase is recommended. L (M–F), D (M–Sa). 11917 Wilshire Blvd., West L.A., 310.478.3596 $$$$ Map K9 URASAWA If you’re serious about sushi, make a date to sit at the maple bar of Urasawa. Here you’ll be treated to an incredible omakase dinner—don’t even ask about price—that features the freshest, most artfully presented sushi, sashimi and shabu-shabu dishes. Reservation required. D (Tu–Sa). 218 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.247.8939 $$$$ Map I11

New Location Now Open in Studio City 12969 Ventura Blvd. (818) 990-9055

116 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica (310) 451-1402 www.yeoldekingshead.com

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Dining Korean CHOSUN GALBEE Korean barbecue restaurant offers a more upscale ambience than most, with an elegant open-air patio. L, D (daily) 3330 W. Olympic Blvd., Koreatown, 323.734.3330 $$$ Map west of I15 OSEK Traditional specialties including bibimbap, galbi, bulgogi and tofu soup. L, D (Tu–Su). 67 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena, 626.644.1299 $ Map Q19

Mediterranean AOC 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 bacon-wrapped, Parmesan-stuffed dates and an excellent selection of cheeses and cured meats from a charcuterie bar. Br (Sa–Su), D (nightly). 8700 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.859.9859 $$ Map I12 BARBRIX Of the small-plate eateries, this restaurant, in a converted schoolhouse, is one of the best. Solo diners eat at the bar while couples relax on a charming patio and revelers toast near an exhibition kitchen. Among the standouts are pappardelle with pork and pancetta ragú. Br (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 2442 Hyperion Ave., Silver Lake, 323.662.2442 $$$ Map east of W23 CLEO The SBE group’s noisy mezze bar is an unquestionable high point of the Hollywood dining scene. Chef Daniel Elmaleh’s eastern and southern Mediterranean small plates include kebabs of pork belly and blood sausage and wood-burned flatbreads. Cocktails are expensive but irresistible. D (nightly). The Redbury, 1717 Vine St., Hollywood, 323.962.1717 $$$ Map H14

Any reason is a great reason to Buca. { Like feeding a craving for authentic itaLian in Los angeLes . }

CROSSROADS KITCHEN Chef/partner Tal Ronnen creates exclusively plant-based dishes, many based on nonvegan comfort classics. Try the creative “crab cake” comprising hearts of palm, apples and beets, or the attractive artichoke “oysters” topped with crispy oyster mushrooms, tomato béarnaise and kelp caviar. The wine list features organic and biodynamic labels. L (M-F), D (nightly). 8284 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.782.9245 $$ Map H12 FIG & OLIVE New York-based restaurant’s cuisine is an ode to olive oil: pumpkin sage ravioli drizzled with porcini olive oil, grilled branzino glazed with fig and picholine olive oil. Don’t miss the truffle mushroom croquette with truffle olive oil aoli. Br (Sa–Su), L (M–F), D (nightly). 8490 Melrose Place, L.A., 310.360.9100 $$$ Map I12 GJELINA Under the direction of talented young chef Travis Lett, servers in T-shirts and newsboy caps serve seasonal Cal-Med small plates and pizzas to chic Westsiders. It’s one of Venice’s most popular restaurants and the neighborhood’s most lively patio. Br (Sa– Su), L (M–F), D (nightly). 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1429 $$ Map N9

Claremont | 505 W. Foothill Blvd. • 909.399.3287 Encino | 17500 Ventura Blvd. • 818.995.3288 Pasadena | 80 W. Green St. • 626.792.7272 Redondo Beach | 1670 S. Pacific Coast Hwy. • 310.540.3246 Santa Monica | 1442 2nd St. • 310.587.2782 Thousand Oaks | 205 N. Moorpark Rd. • 805.449.3688 Universal CityWalk | 1000 Universal Studios Blvd. • 818.509.9463 Valencia | 26940 Theater Drive • 661.253.1900 BUCADIBEPPO.COM

LUCQUES Chef-owner Suzanne Goin delivers the next generation of California cuisine, which includes dishes such as turmeric-spiced root vegetable tagine, and grilled club steak for two with potatoes parisienne. Nowhere do vegetables taste as good! L (Tu–Sa), D (nightly). 8474 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.655.6277 $$$ Map I13 RAY’S & STARK BAR Petite, Renzo Piano–designed eatery at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Contemporary Med-inspired cuisine including vegetables cooked in wood-burning oven. Adjacent Stark Bar offers designer cocktails on an outdoor patio. Br (Sa-Su), L, D (Th–Tu). 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6180 $$ Map J13

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Dining an unbeatable menu of tequila tipples. L (M–F), D (nightly). 1050 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.749.1460 $$$ Map I16

Pan-Asian LUKSHON Sang Yoon of Father’s Office opens a slick Southeast Asian eatery with a selection of craft beers and Far East-inspired cocktail program. The crispy whole market fish is not to be missed. L (Tu–F), D (Tu–Sa). 3239 Helms Ave., Culver City, 310.202.6808 $$$ Map K12

Lomo saltado at Mo-Chica downtown

SONOMA WINE GARDEN Brunch and happy hour crowds gather at this alfresco restaurant on the third floor of Santa Monica Place. Wine and cheese plates and pizzas from the wood-burning oven are perfect for grazing over wine from the extensive list of old and new. Br (Sa, Su), L (M-F), D (Daily). 395 Santa Monica Place, Suite 300, Santa Monica, 424.214.4560 $$ Map L8

Mexican/Latin BORDER GRILL At Border Grill, chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger combine their unabashed love for Mexico’s market vendors, home cooks and taco stands. The result: bold, fresh and innovative Mexican cuisine. The downtown location offers a free shuttle to L.A. Live and the Music Center. Santa Monica: Br (Sa–Su), L, D (daily). 1445 4th St., Santa Monica, 310.451.1655; 445 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.486.5171 $$ Map L8, H16 MO-CHICA The Peruvian food-court stand that earned Ricardo Zarate the title of Best New Chef from Food & Wine is reinvented as a fine-dining destination. Comfort-food small plates populate the menu; check out the traditional lomo saltado or the alpaca stew topped with a fried egg. L, D (daily). 514 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.622.3744 $$$ Map I16 PETTY CASH TAQUERÍA Chef Walter Manzke, previously known for his restrained French fare at Bastide and Church & State, delivers in-yourface Mexican street food using local, seasonal ingredients and refined technique. Winning dishes include pig ear nachos with crema poblana topped with a soft egg, and savory churros, oozing cheese and served with a butternut squash mole dip. D (nightly). 7360 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.933.5300 $$ Map I13 PICCA Ricardo Zarate’s second Peruvian restaurant has grand ambitions and a Japanese twist, with a more dressed-up dining room and larger menu featuring small plates of ceviches, tiraditos, anticuchos and Peruvian-style sushi. Mezzanine bar serves pisco cocktails. D (M–Su). 9575 W. Pico Blvd., West L.A., 310.277.0133 $$ Map J11 RED O Rick Bayless, one of the leading authorities on Mexican cuisine in America, is consulting chef at this sexy, transporting Melrose eatery. Many of his thoughtful dishes are grounded in tradition, such as Pacific sole and Mazatlan blue shrimp ceviches and cochinita pibil. Br (Su), D (nightly). 8155 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.655.5009 $$$ Map I12 RIVERA Chef John Sedlar showcases his flair for pan-Latin flavors and attention to detail; consider the housemade nixtamal tortillas inlaid with edible flowers or plates with intricate designs stenciled in spices. A pioneer of the craft cocktail movement, Rivera has

WP24 From its 24th-floor roost, WP24 proves that Wolfgang Puck, who pioneered Asian fusion, has still got the goods. The restaurant might offer downtown’s best skyline views. Highlights include “Not Too Classic” hot and sour soup and steamed bao filled with pork belly. New restaurant/lounge concept NEST at WP24 is adjacent. D (nightly). The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, 900 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.743.8824 $$$$ Map I15

Quick Bites THE APPLE PAN Move quickly to grab a seat at the counter of this tiny joint, open since 1927. Burger aficionados wax on about the classic, drippy Steakburger and Hickoryburger. Cash only. Open late. L, D (Tu–Su). 10801 W. Pico Blvd., West L.A., 310.475.3585 $ Map K10 IN-N-OUT SoCal’s iconic burgers, cooked to order— try the off-menu “animal style”—plus fries and shakes. Seating and drive-through. Open late. L, D (daily). 7009 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, 800.786.1000 and 10 other locations $ Map H13 PINK’S HOT DOGS There’s a perpetual queue in front of this hot dog stand, open since 1939, which serves 30 kinds of dogs and chili cheeseburgers, too. Open late. B, L, D (daily). 709 N. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.931.4223 $ Map I13 PITA JUNGLE Light, fast-casual Mediterranean staples such as dolmades and gyros mixed with Mexican, Italian and even Caribbean fare. 43 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.432.7482 $ Map Q19 WURSTKÜCHE Don’t even try to pronounce it—”the sausage place” will do. Arts District bar/restaurant offers thick-cut Belgian fries and a repertory of exotic franks: rattlesnake and rabbit, alligator and pork andouille. Open late. L, D (daily). 800 E. 3rd St., downtown; 625 Lincoln Blvd., Venice. 213.687.4444 $ Map I17, M9

Seafood CHART HOUSE Enjoy seafood and chophouse fare in seaside settings. In addition to creative dishes such as a crab, avocado and mango stack appetizer are perennial favorites including signature prime rib and hot chocolate lava cake. L (call for hours), D (nightly). 13950 Panay Way, Marina del Rey, 310.822.4144; 231 Yacht Club Way, Redondo Beach, 310.372.3464 $$ Map N9, M13 FISHING WITH DYNAMITE David LeFevre, a Water Grill alum, loads his menu with East Coast inspirations as well as some innovative dishes. Among the old-school small plates are New England–style clam chowder with Nueske’s bacon and Maryland blue crab cakes with housemade pickles and remoulade. L, D (daily). 1148 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.893.6299 $$$ Map L13 GLADSTONE’S MALIBU One of SoCal’s biggest hits with a million visitors each year. Dramatic ocean views. B (Sa–Su), L, D (daily). 17300 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades, 310.454.3474 $$ Map west of K7

THE HUNGRY CAT East Coast fare in hip little spots. Dungeness crab benedict; you-peel or they-peel shrimp by the half-pound. Hollywood: Br (Sa–Su), L (M–F), D (nightly). Santa Monica: Br (Sa-Su), D (nightly). Sunset+Vine, 1535 N. Vine St., Hollywood, 323.462.2155; 100 W. Channel Road, Santa Monica, 310.459.3337 $$ Map H14, L7 LITTLEFORK While many of L.A.’s restaurants look to the Far East for inspiration, executive chef Jason Travi zeroed in on the East Coast, drawing on his Boston roots and utilizing his favorite New England purveyors. Signature seafood dishes include clams casino and crispy oyster sliders with pickled hot peppers, and nonseafood items include the favorite maple eggs. Br (Sa–Su), D (nightly). 1600 Wilcox Ave., Hollywood, 323.465.3675 $$$ Map H14 PROVIDENCE Chef-owner Michael Cimarusti transforms seafood from the world’s most pristine waters into inventive dishes such as kampachi with miso, buttermilk and green grapes, and striped bass with bacon and Bordelaise sauce. Outstanding cocktails complement Michelin-recognized cuisine. L (F), D (nightly). 5955 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.460.4170 $$$$ Map I14 SON OF A GUN Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, the meat-loving chefs at Animal, turn to the sea for new inspiration. They cook up small shareable plates such as salmon collar, miniature lobster rolls and shrimp toast sandwiches in a nautically themed space. L (M–F), D (nightly). 8370 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.9033 $$$ Map I12 WATER GRILL The premier seafood restaurant is famed for its huge platters of fruits de mer from the oyster bar. Low-temperature cooking methods are used in dishes such as sauteed Columbia River sturgeon, 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 $$$$ Map H16, L8

Spanish THE BAZAAR BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS Star chef José Andrés brings whimsical set of Spanish-style dining experiences to the eminently stylish SLS Hotel. Cuisine ranges from rustic fare to the molecular gastronomy creations that have made Spain a culinary leader. Tasting room Saam offers an unforgettable 22-course prix fixe menu. D (nightly). 465 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.246.5555 $$$ Map H16 CAFE SEVILLA Authentic Spanish fare and tapas bar on a bustling strip in downtown Long Beach. Dinner show on Saturdays; nightclub upstairs. D (nightly). 140 Pine Ave., Long Beach, 562.495.1111 $$ Map N16

Steak BOA Way hip, way fine steakhouse. Steak rubs and dips; out-there cocktails. Santa Monica: L, D (daily). West Hollywood: L (M–F), D (nightly). 101 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.899.4466; 9200 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2050 $$$ Map M8, H11 CUT A collaboration between Getty Center architect Richard Meier and celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, Cut is the place to savor genuine Kobe beef steaks ($120-plus) or dry-aged Nebraska beef. Puck’s menu is short on nostalgia but long on flavor. D (M–Sa). Beverly Wilshire Hotel, 9500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.276.8500 $$$$ Map J11 FOGO DE CHÃO The city’s best churrascaria—those Brazilian steakhouse-barbecue restaurants—is this restaurant with muraled walls and soaring ceilings.

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Dining After a trip to a massive salad-appetizer bar, guests are treated to an endless procession of meats carved right onto their plates. L (M–F), D (nightly). 133 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.289.7755 $$$ Map J12 THE GRILL ON THE ALLEY The Grill is a venerable industry hangout, where the maître d’ juggles Hollywood heavyweights, each demanding his favorite table for deal-making lunches. Polished waiters deliver steaks, Cobb salads and chicken pot pies in a dining room with classic good looks. Beverly Hills: L (M–Sa), D (nightly). Hollywood: L, D (daily), Br (Su). Thousand Oaks: L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 9560 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.276.0615; The Grill on Hollywood, Hollywood & Highland Center, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.856.5530; 120 E. Promenade Way, Thousand Oaks, 805.418.1760 $$$ Map I11, H13, north of A10

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L.A. PRIME City views and dry-aged steaks at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel’s top floor are sure impress out-of-towners and dinner dates. Classic sides and starters fill out the American surf-and-turf menu. D (nightly). Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, 404 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.624.1000 $$$ Map H16

PARTY PLATTERS

MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE Swanky “steakhouse with personality.” Bone-in-filet reigns; warm butter cake melts in your mouth. New Penthouse at Mastro’s is an upstairs lounge. D (nightly). 246 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.888.8782 $$$ Map J11

UNLIMITED SALAD BAR

MORTON’S Clubby ambience, show-and-tell menu, huge portions. Beverly Hills, Woodland Hills: D (nightly). Downtown, Burbank: L (M–F), D (nightly). 435 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.246.1501; 735 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.553.4566; The Pinnacle, 3400 W. Olive Ave., Burbank, 818.238.0424; 6250 Canoga Ave., Woodland Hills, 818.703.7272. $$$ Map I11, I16, T20, West of A1 THE STINKING ROSE “We season our garlic with food,” from Gartini cocktail to garlic ice cream. 40-Clove Garlic Chicken, Silence of the Lamb Shank, Vladimir’s Garlic “Stakes” menu with six steak options. L, D (daily). 55 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.652.7673 $$ Map I12 WOLFGANG’S STEAKHOUSE Chef Wolfgang Zwiener opens outpost of his New York steakhouse. Try the dry-aged porterhouse steak for two, three or four. L (M–F), D (nightly). 445 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.385.0640 $$$$ Map J11

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Thai CHAN DARA Traditional specialties. L (M–F), D (nightly). 11940 W. Pico Blvd., West L.A., 310.479.4461; House of Chan Dara, 310 N. Larchmont Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.1052 $$ Map L10, I14 JITLADA THAI The wait is long, and the ambience low, but the southern Thai specialties are authentic and exceptional. L, D (Tu-Sa). 52331/2 Sunset Blvd., Silver Lake 323.667.9809 $$ Map W22

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NATALEE THAI Traditional Thai dishes are served amid edgy, modern décor. Among entrees are Nutty Chicken (a spicy combo of chicken, onion and dried chili) and a sole filet in red curry sauce. Veggie lovers favor the spicy maha jumlong curry. L, D (daily). 10101 Venice Blvd., Culver City, 310.202.7003; 998 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.855.9380 $ Map L11, I11

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208 RODEO Set atop the stairs on Via Rodeo’s cobblestone street, 208 Rodeo serves up luxury and bistro fare in a unique, romantic setting. Exuding Rodeo Drive elegance, the restaurant’s flagstone patio overlooks the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, setting of the film Pretty Woman. 208 Rodeo is a gem among the ritzy shops of Two Rodeo. Whether it is for breakfast, lunch, happy hour or dinner, for a quick bite or a full meal, 208 Rodeo offers it all amid warm regency décor. Offering California cuisine with pan-Asian and French influences, the eatery serves dishes that are beautifully presented and imaginatively prepared with seasonal ingredients. Menu highlights include tomato roasted salmon and grilled steak. 208 Rodeo also serves cocktails, wines and beers, delectable desserts such as chocolate Florentine and tiramisu, and Illy coffee drinks. A children’s menu is available for all meals. B, L, D (daily).

208 Via Rodeo, Beverly Hills

310.275.2428 208rodeo.com

Breakfast Organic oatmeal Almond-and-berry French toast Eggs Benedict Eggs Florentine Huevos rancheros Omelet Frittata Fruit salad and yogurt Starters Dungeness crab cake Crispy calamari French onion soup Spicy tuna tartare Roasted baby beet Truffled and sweet fries Tomato bisque Sesame prawns Cheese platter Entrees Gourmet grilled cheese sandwich Seafood salad Seared ahi sandwich Chicken-and-goat-cheese salad Kobe beef burger Chicken sandwich Niçoise salad Penne arrabiata Grilled filet mignon Mushroom and salmon pasta Diver scallops Roasted miso salmon Grilled striped bass Pork chop Chicken schnitzel Desserts Chocolate Florentine cannoli Mix berry rolada Caramel napoleon Tiramisu Triple-layer chocolate mousse White chocolate cheesecake Fruit tart

208 RODEO RESTAURANT

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MENU HIGHLIGHTS Starters Escargot in shell Baked Blue Point oysters Rockefeller Bluefin tuna tartare Prime beef tenderloin tartare Braised double cut pork belly Katafi wrapped prawns Pan-roasted bone marrow Littleneck clams and frites Pacific Prawn cocktail

L.A. PRIME Located on the 35th floor of the Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites, the award-winning L.A. Prime invites diners to experience a culinary adventure in a relaxed atmosphere with refined service. Known for its innovative and edgy cuisine, L.A. Prime offers wet-aged prime beef steaks as well as beautiful lamb chops and filet Oscar, fresh fish and shellfish. Dishes are enhanced with local produce and paired with wines from an award-winning list recognized by Wine Spectator. Director of Food and Beverage Andreas Nieto and Chef de Cuisine Jeffrey Williams have created a masterful menu of artfully presented dishes made with fresh ingredients to please the palate. Stars wink at diners through floor-to-ceiling windows as they sit back, relax and enjoy all that downtown has to offer. D (nightly).

404 S. Figueroa St., downtown

213.624.1000

Soup or salad Roasted Maine lobster bisque Caesar salad Baby iceberg Heirloom tomatoes and burrata salad Roasted red and golden beets Rainbow Swiss chard salad Baby green salad Entrees Bone-in Delmonico ribeye Primal cut New York strip steak Bone-in filet mignon Center cut petite filet mignon Porterhouse steak Braised bone-in prime beef short rib Maryland crab cakes Pan-seared Mano de LĂŠon scallops Cioppino Pan-roasted wild king salmon Chilean sea bass Sauteed shrimp scampi Classic white risotto Meyer lemon asparagus risotto Sides Whipped russet potato mousse Potato gratin Vermont white macaroni and cheese Sauteed chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mixed mushrooms Creamed corn off the cob

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PAPARAZZI RISTORANTE Ranked one of the top 10 Italian restaurants in Southern California by Gayot, Paparazzi Ristorante is a hidden gem in the heart of L.A. Executive chef Orazio Parisi inspires the senses with his simple, classic Italian cuisine with a nod to Southern Italy, which earned him the title of Chef of the Year from the Southern California Food Writer Association in 2011. Paparazzi Ristorante delights diners with fresh pastas in authentic sauces as well as skillfully prepared seafood, steaks and poultry. House specialties include Il Cioppino dei Paparazzi, an enticing combination of seafood in a fennel pomodoro broth served with classic garlic ciabatta, as well as lasagna al brasato, fresh pasta layered with braised short ribs, rich cream, garlic sauteed spinach and mozzarella. Other favorites include garganelli alla salsiccia, spaghetti alla chitarra, ossobuco and pizzetta boscaiola. All feature robust flavors and beautiful wine pairings. Want to throw a party? The elegant private dining room can accommodate up to 40 people and is equipped with audio-visual needs for your entertainment. It’s the perfect setting for you and your friends to have a great evening and enjoy chef Parisi’s creations. Your taste buds will thank you. D (M–Sa).

Starters Burrata Lattughe miste Cavoletto Toscano Little Gem “Caesar” Melanzane Gamberoni al guanciale Cinghiale Polipo Crostini Calamari Formaggi Salumi Pizzetta al prosciutto Pizzetta boscaiola Pizzetta Margherita Pastas Bolognese Lasagna al brasato Pappardelle Mezzaluna Garganelli Chitarra Kobe beef ravioli Entrees Cioppino Salmone Branzino Vaccaro Filetto Bistecca Ossobuco Pollo Abbacchio Maiale

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310.642.4820 sheratonlax.com/paparazzi

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LA DINING

THE STINKING ROSE

Located on Beverly Hills’ famed Restaurant Row, The Stinking Rose has made a name for itself, and its popularity is evident—people fill the unique dining rooms to partake of the tasty food enhanced by the fragrant bulb. Specialties include two pounds of whole, garlic-roasted Dungeness crab in a secret garlic sauce and the ever-popular forty-clove garlic chicken. “The Best Steak I Ever Tasted was in a Garlic Restaurant—The Stinking Rose in Beverly Hills”—Vladimir. L, D (daily).

55 N. La Cienega Blvd. (near Wilshire Blvd.), Beverly Hills 310.652.7673 thestinkingrose.com

MATTEO’S RESTAURANT Frequented in its early days by celebs including Frank Sinatra and the rest of the Rat Pack, Matteo’s Restaurant has redefined its look and cuisine while maintaining status as the epitome of classic cool. Now in its 50th year, Matteo’s continues to offer unique seasonal fare in a homey and hip setting. Executive chef Antonio Orlando’s menu feature sumptuous, cosmopolitan Italian fare like veal tartufato, lamb and weekly game specials. Happy hour specials Tuesday through Friday and on Sunday include half-off drinks and a $7 and under bar menu. Gluten free and vegetarian options also available. For lunch, visit adjacent cafe Hoboken, open weekdays. D (Tu-Su).

2321 Westwood Blvd., L.A. 310.475.4521 matteosla.com

SEASONS 52

Celebrate living well. This casually sophisticated fresh grill and wine bar invites you to discover the sensational flavors of seasonally inspired dishes and an award-winning international wine list. Menu items feature market-fresh ingredients and are prepared using cooking techniques such as oak-fire grilling and brick-oven roasting. The result is dishes that are lighter in calories, thoughtfully prepared in appropriate portion sizes, so guests can feel free to indulge in a number of dishes including flatbreads and mini indulgences. The ambience evokes the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright using solid Honduran mahogany and autumn ledgestone. Live music in the piano lounge starts at 6 p.m. every day of the week L, D (daily).

1501 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica 310.451.1152 seasons52.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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LA DINING

IL FORNAIO

Il Fornaio’s award-winning authentic Italian cuisine is a favorite in Los Angeles. Specialties include house-made pastas, wood-fired pizza, grilled fish, authentic risotto and rotisserie meats. Fresh pastas are made daily. Each month a special menu from a different region of Italy is featured. With an event coordinator on-site to handle all of your needs, Il Fornaio is the perfect location for special events and business functions. Repeat recipient of The Wine Spectator’s “Award of Excellence”.

301 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.550.8330 1800 Rosecrans Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.725.9555 1 Colorado, Pasadena, 626.683.9797 ilfornaio.com

SONOMA WINE GARDEN Sonoma Wine Garden showcases bold Mediterranean flavors with a California touch. Its chefs source produce at local farmers markets to ensure the menu reflects the freshest ingredients. With almost 50 by-the-glass offerings, the extensive wine list complements a diverse menu of small plates. The main dining room features a mammoth chandelier made with wine bottles, a floor-to-ceiling wine cellar, and walls paneled with genuine wine cases. A picture window provides views of the Pacific Ocean, and the deck affords an excellent view of the restaurant’s bar and gardens. Sample some of the world’s finest wines by the ounce or glass via the 16-bottle Enomatic wine-dispensing machine. Happy hour Monday through Friday, 12-7 p.m. Br (Sa-Su), L (M-F), D (nightly).

395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica 424.214.4560 sonomawinegardensantamonica.com

TRUXTON’S AMERICAN BISTRO

Reinvented American classics and approachable dishes with ethnic twists comprise the “no-veto” menu at Truxton’s American Bistro, a friendly neighborhood eatery in Santa Monica. Dig into the hearty Portland burger, piled high with sautéed wild mushrooms, fontina cheese, lettuce and caramelized and crispy onions. Or, opt for a seafood dish such as miso-marinated salmon filet topped with pickled cucumber salad and served with soy-glazed green beans. Whatever your selection, and whether you’re dining in or carrying out, you can count on Truxton’s to deliver warm and knowledgeable service, affordable prices and seasonal “crate to plate” ingredients. B (Sa-Su), L, D (daily). 1329 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica 310.393.8789 truxtonsamericanbistro.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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LA DINING

ROSE TREE COTTAGE

Hong Kong has the Peninsula hotel. London, Claridge’s. And L.A.’s premier afternoon tea spot is Rose Tree Cottage. Enjoy a traditional English-style afternoon tea accompanied by mouth-watering finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones served with Devon cream and preserves at this charming tearoom. Dining on fine Royal Crown Derby and Royal Doulton bone china, guests sit in an indoor tearoom or an outdoor safari-themed pavilion amid a garden. Surrounded by gift items sourced from England, the sounds of clinking teacups and soft music, the scents of fresh roses and baked goods, you will think you’re in another time and place far, far away. Reservations taken by telephone only. Tea served at 1:00, 2:30 and 4:00 (Tu–Su).

801 S. Pasadena Ave., Pasadena 626.793.3337 rosetreecottage.com

RISTORANTE AL MARE Savor fresh and authentic handmade pastas, thin crust pizzas and Italian seafood classics such as cioppino and branzino at Ristorante al Mare, a new Italian eatery from the team behind Trastavere and La Piazza at the Grove. Located next to the historic carousel on the Santa Monica Pier, the three-story restaurant features a rooftop dining deck and full bar with unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and Malibu coastline (a perfect spot to gather with friends for happy hour, 4:30-7:30 p.m. daily). The restaurant also boasts balcony terraces on the second floor and a private dining room, as well as first-floor exterior decks overlooking the bustling boardwalk and beautiful Santa Monica beaches. L, D (daily).

250 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica 310.458.4448 ristorantealmare.com

BENIHANA BEVERLY HILLS Benihana is a landmark on Beverly Hills’ Restaurant Row. At the heart of the Benihana experience lies the teppanyaki grill, where masterful chefs expertly prepare savory filet mignon, tender chicken breasts, succulent shrimp, cold-water lobster tail and Benihana’s signature hibachi chicken rice, all cooked to order in front of guests. Side orders include tempura, nigiri, sashimi and an assortment of fresh and colorful sushi rolls. Try one of the delicious specialty cocktails served in collectible mugs, Benihana’s famous hot sake or a passion fruit lemonade. Kids 12 and under can select from the Kabuki Kids menu. Benihana chefs are as well known for their culinary theatrics as they are for their outstanding cooking. Celebrate your next special occasion at Benihana and take home a souvenir photo to commemorate the day. L, D (daily). 38 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills 323.655.7311 benihana.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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RESTAURANTS City Index Our superguide by area, with cross reference to listings by cuisine. BEVERLY HILLS

CULVER CITY

208 RODEO (California).............................................. 68

A-FRAME (Eclectic)......................................................... 68

LA CIENEGA BOULEVARD RESTAURANT ROW

THE BAZAAR (Spanish)............................................. 74

AKASHA (California)....................................................... 68

FIG & OLIVE (Mediterranean).................................... 73

FATHER’S OFFICE 2 (Brew/Pub)...................... 67

MATSUHISA (Japanese)............................................... 72

FORD’S FILLING STATION (Brew/Pub)...... 67

NOBU (Japanese)............................................................... 72

LUKSHON (Pan-Asian)................................................... 74

THE STINKING ROSE (Steak)............................... 76

BENIHANA (Japanese)....................................................71 BOUCHON (French)....................................................... 68 CHAYA (California)............................................................ 68 CULINA (Italian)............................................................... 70 CUT (Steak).......................................................................... 74 FOGO DE CHAO (Steak).......................................... 74 THE GRILL ON THE ALLEY (Steak)................ 76 IL FORNAIO (Italian).................................................... 70

NATALEE THAI (Thai)................................................ 76 WATERLOO & CITY (British)................................. 67

MALIBU GLADSTONE’S MALIBU (Seafood).................... 74

DOWNTOWN BÄCO MERCAT (Eclectic).......................................... 68 BESTIA (Italian)................................................................. 70

MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak)................... 76

CAFÉ PINOT (French).................................................. 68

MONSIEUR MARCEL (French).............................. 69

CHAYA (California)............................................................ 68

MORTON’S (Steak)........................................................ 76

CHOSUN GALBEE (Korean).................................... 73

MR. CHOW (Chinese).................................................... 68

CHURCH & STATE (French)..................................... 69

NATALEE THAI (Thai)................................................ 76

DRAGO CENTRO (Italian)........................................ 70

POLO LOUNGE (California)....................................... 68

KATSUYA (Japanese)...................................................... 72

RED MEDICINE (Eclectic).......................................... 68

KENDALL’S BRASSERIE (French)..................... 69

SCARPETTA (Italian)......................................................71

L.A. PRIME (Steak)......................................................... 76

SOUTH BAY/LONG BEACH BABOUCH MOROCCAN (Eclectic).................... 68 BENIHANA (Japanese)....................................................71 BUCA DI BEPPO (Italian)......................................... 70 CAFE SEVILLA (Spanish).......................................... 74 CHART HOUSE (Seafood)......................................... 74 CLAIM JUMPER (American)..................................... 66

MAISON GIRAUD (French)...................................... 69

FISHING WITH DYNAMITE (Seafood)............ 74

MR. CHOW (Chinese).................................................... 68

IL FORNAIO (Italian).................................................... 70

NOBU MALIBU (Japanese)........................................ 72 SADDLE PEAK LODGE (American)................... 66 SUGARFISH (Japanese)................................................ 72

MAR’SEL (California)....................................................... 68 M.B. POST (American)................................................... 66 SALT CREEK GRILLE (American)........................ 66

MARINA DEL REY

THE STRAND HOUSE (American)....................... 66

CHART HOUSE (Seafood)......................................... 74 SUGARFISH (Japanese)................................................ 72

VALLEY PASADENA BUCA DI BEPPO (Italian)......................................... 70

ASENABO (Japanese)......................................................71 BUCA DI BEPPO (Italian)......................................... 70

SPAGO (California)............................................................ 68

LE KA (French)................................................................... 69

SUGARFISH (Japanese)................................................ 72

MADDALENA (Italian)................................................. 70

HAVEN GASTROPUB (Brew/Pub)....................... 67

MO-CHICA (Latin).......................................................... 74

IL FORNAIO (Italian).................................................... 70

CLAIM JUMPER (American)..................................... 66

MORTON’S (Steak)........................................................ 76

KABUKI (Japanese).......................................................... 72

NOÉ (American).................................................................. 66

THE GRILL ON THE ALLEY (Steak)................ 76

KATSUYA (Japanese)...................................................... 72

OCEAN SEAFOOD (Chinese)................................. 68

MAISON AKIRA (Eclectic)......................................... 68

PATINA (French)................................................................ 69

OSEK (Korean).................................................................... 73

KATSU-YA (Japanese).................................................... 72

RIVERA (Latin).................................................................. 74

PARKWAY GRILL (California).................................. 68

MORTON’S (Steak)........................................................ 76

SOLETO TRATTORIA (Italian)................................71

PITA JUNGLE (Quick Bites)........................................ 74

SUGARFISH (Japanese)................................................ 72

ROSE TREE COTTAGE (British).......................... 67

TERRONI (Italian)..............................................................71

SECO (American)............................................................... 66

URASAWA (Japanese)................................................... 72 WOLFGANG PUCK (American)............................. 67 WOLFGANG’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak)......... 76

BEVERLY BOULEVARD 3RD STREET MELROSE AVENUE ANGELINI OSTERIA (Italian)................................ 70 AOC (Mediterranean)......................................................... 73

CHEVAL BISTRO (French)........................................ 69

BENIHANA (Japanese)....................................................71

KABUKI (Japanese).......................................................... 72

UMAMI BURGER (American)................................... 67

WATER GRILL (Seafood)............................................ 74

SUSHI ROKU (Japanese)............................................. 72

VENICE

COMME ÇA (French)..................................................... 69

WP24 (Pan-Asian)............................................................. 74

TRATTORIA NEAPOLIS (Italian)..........................71

CHAYA (California)............................................................ 68

COOKS COUNTY (California).................................. 68

WURSTKÜCHE (Quick Bites).................................... 74

VERTICAL WINE BISTRO (American)............. 67

HOLLYWOOD/EASTSIDE

SANTA MONICA

SUPERBA SNACK BAR (Italian)...........................71

ALLUMETTE (American).............................................. 66

BENIHANA (Japanese)....................................................71

THE TASTING KITCHEN (California)................. 68

CROSSROADS KITCHEN (Mediterranean)..... 73 HATFIELD’S (California)............................................68 INK. (American)................................................................... 66 JAR (American).................................................................... 66

BARBRIX (Mediterranean)............................................ 73

JOAN’S ON THIRD (American).............................. 66

CHAN DARA (Thai)...................................................... 76

THE LITTLE DOOR (French)................................... 69

CLEO (Mediterranean)...................................................... 73

LUCQUES (Mediterranean)........................................... 73

DELPHINE (French)........................................................ 69

OSTERIA MOZZA (Italian)....................................... 70

THE GRILL ON HOLLYWOOD (Steak)......... 76

PETTY CASH TAQUERIA (Mexican)................. 74

THE HUNGRY CAT (Seafood)................................. 74

PIZZERIA MOZZA (Italian).......................................71 PROVIDENCE (Seafood)............................................. 74 RED O (Mexican)............................................................... 74 SON OF A GUN (Seafood)........................................ 74 SUSHI ROKU (Japanese)............................................. 72

BRENTWOOD KATSUYA (Japanese)...................................................... 72 SUGARFISH (Japanese)................................................ 72 TAVERN (California).......................................................68

IN-N-OUT BURGER (Quick Bites)......................... 74 JITLADA THAI (Thai).................................................. 76 KABUKI (Japanese).......................................................... 72 KATSUYA (Japanese)...................................................... 72 LITTLEFORK (Seafood)............................................... 74 MUSSO & FRANK GRILL (American)............... 66 PUBLIC KITCHEN + BAR (Brew/Pub).............. 67

GJELINA (Mediterranean)............................................. 73

BOA (Steak).......................................................................... 74 BORDER GRILL (Mexican)........................................ 74 CEZANNE (French)......................................................... 68

WEST HOLLYWOOD

FARMSHOP (California)................................................ 68

BOA (Steak).......................................................................... 74

FATHER’S OFFICE (Brew/Pub)........................... 67

CECCONI’S (Italian)....................................................... 70

THE HUNGRY CAT (Seafood)................................. 74 INN OF THE SEVENTH RAY (California)....... 68 MÉLISSE (French)............................................................. 69

CHI LIN (Chinese)............................................................. 68 EVELEIGH (American)................................................... 66

MILO & OLIVE (California)......................................... 68

GORDON RAMSAY (Eclectic)................................. 68

MONSIEUR MARCEL (French).............................. 69

RIVABELLA (Italian)........................................................71

R+D KITCHEN (American)......................................... 66 RISTORANTE AL MARE (Italian).........................71

TERRONI (Italian)..............................................................71

RUSTIC CANYON (California)................................. 68 SEASONS 52 (American)............................................ 66

RAO’S (Italian)......................................................................71

SONOMA WINE GARDEN (Mediterranean).... 74

TAIX (French)....................................................................... 69

SUGARFISH (Japanese)................................................ 72

WESTSIDE THE APPLE PAN (Quick Bites)................................ 74 CHAN DARA (Thai)...................................................... 76

TROIS MEC (Eclectic).................................................... 68

SUSHI ROKU (Japanese)............................................. 72

UMAMI BURGER (American)................................... 67

TAR & ROSES (California)........................................... 68

KABUKI (Japanese).......................................................... 72

TRUXTON’S BISTRO (American)......................... 66

MATTEO’S (Italian).......................................................70

CENTURY CITY

LA BREA/MIDTOWN

WATER GRILL (Seafood)............................................ 74

CRAFT (American)............................................................ 66

ANIMAL (American)........................................................ 66

WILSHIRE (California)................................................... 67

HINOKI & THE BIRD (American).......................... 66

PINK’S HOT DOGS (Quick Bites)........................... 74

UMAMI BURGER (American)................................... 67

PICCA (Latin)...................................................................... 74

SEASONS 52 (American)............................................ 66

RAY’S & STARK BAR (Mediterranean)............... 73

YE OLDE KING’S HEAD (British)....................... 68

SUSHI SASABUNE (Japanese)............................. 72

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PAPARAZZI (Italian)..................................................... 70

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Entertainment Special Events CICLAVIA ICONIC WILSHIRE BOULEVARD April 6 Car-free event clears the streets for cyclists, skaters and pedestrians. 9 am–4 pm. Wilshire Boulevard from downtown Los Angeles to Museum Row in the Miracle Mile, 213.355.8500, ciclavia.org Map H16, J13 COACHELLA April 11–13, 18–20 Mega-popular music and arts festival. Headliners include Outkast and Muse. 3-day pass, $375–$799. Camping pass, $85. Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio, coachella.com TOYOTA GRAND PRIX OF LONG BEACH April 11–13 Car races, concerts, car displays, family fun and more at this 40th annual event, which features a standing start to its IndyCar Series race this year. $28-$135. 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, 888.827.7333 Map 016 L.A. TIMES FESTIVAL OF BOOKS April 12–13 Authors, celebrities, booksellers and readers mingle on the USC campus during this two-day celebration of the written word. Free. Parking $10. Check website for hours. University of Southern California, Exposition Boulevard and Figueroa Street, L.A., events.latimes.com/festivalofbooks Map southeast of K15

Movement and Melancholy

In Man in a Case, the legendary Mikhail Baryshnikov and performers from the awardwinning Big Dance Theater bring to life two of Russian author Anton Chekhov’s 19th-century short stories, Man in a Case and About Love. But don’t expect an evening at the ballet. The adaptation by Big Dance Theater co-artistic directors Annie-B Parson and Paul Lazar is an experimental, high-tech fusion of theater, movement, music and video in which rigidity, inaction and regret define Baryshnikov’s unluckyin-love lead characters. Fans of Misha’s grace and nimbleness needn’t despair, however: There is dance, and as Karen D’Souza of the San Jose Mercury News put it, “Baryshnikov turns even tiny bits of physicality into grand balletic gestures.” (See listing at right.)

LEBOWSKI FEST April 25–26 Fans of the Coen brothers’ classic The Big Lebowski gather for a movie party with music from Kyle Gass Band at the Wiltern, followed by a night of bowling, costumes and games at Fountain Bowl. Movie party, $20, doors 7 pm; Bowling party, $25–$30, 8 pm. The Wiltern 3790 Wilshire Blvd., L.A. 213.388.1400; Fountain Bowl 17110 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley, 714.963.7888, lebowskifest.com Map J13 PHOTO PARIS LOS ANGELES April 25–27 Leading international galleries, collectors and artists cross-pollinate at this second U.S. edition of the celebrated art fair dedicated to the art of photography and the moving image. $20– $28; under 13 free. Paramount Pictures Studios, 5555 Melrose Ave., L.A., parisphoto.com Map H14 ARTISANAL LA April 26–27 Seasonal event draws vendors and aficianados of SoCal’s local, handmade and sustainable edibles. Check website for hours and ticket information. LA Mart 1933 Broadway, downtown, artisanalla.com Map I16

Theater A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM April 3–19 In their first collaboration since the Tony Award-winning War Horse, Bristol Old Vic Director Tom Morris and the South African Handspring Puppet Company join forces to bring one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies to life through puppetry. The Broad Stage, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica, 310.434.3200, thebroadstage.com Map L8 RUTH DRAPER’S MONOLOGUES Opening April 8 Actress Annette Bening channels actress Ruth Draper channeling characters such as the harried society woman, the hostess and the debutante in this premiere at the Gil Cates Theater. Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., Westwood, 310.208.5454 Map J10 PAUL TAYLOR DANCE COMPANY April 11–13 Legendary choreographer Paul Taylor and his modern dance company present a diverse program, including work set to minimalist composer Morton Feldman. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.8001 Map H16 HARMONY Through April 13 New musical about a 1920s German boy band, with music by Barry Manilow and book and lyrics by Bruce Sussman. Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772 Map H16

Guidelines

Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps in the back of this issue. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

Index Special Events ...................84 Theater ................................84 Music + Dance...................84 Sports...................................86 Attractions .........................86

Studio Tours .......................90 Studio Tapings....................91 Museums ............................91 Shopping Destinations ...94 Tours + Transport.............96

THE TALLEST TREE IN THE FOREST Opening April 12 Obie Award-winning writer and performer Daniel Beaty chronicles the life of Paul Robeson, the son of a runaway slave who died “the most well known black man in the world.” Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772 Map H16 THE GERSHWINS’ PORGY AND BESS Opening April 22 This reinvisioned production of the classic American play features award-winning members of the Broadway cast performing such classics as “Summertime.” Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772 Map H16 MAN IN A CASE Opening April 24 In a high-tech fusion of theater, movement, music and video, Mikhail Baryshnikov and Big Dance Theater artists perform a story based on Anton Chekhov’s short stories Man in a Case and About Love. The Broad Stage, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica, 310.434.3200, thebroadstage.com Map L8 THE BOOK OF MORMON Continuing The irreverent, Tony Award-winning musical comedy from the Emmy Award-winning creators of South Park, Matt Stone and Trey Parker, and the Tony Award-winning co-creator of Avenue Q, Robert Lopez. Contains explicit language. Hollywood Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.468.1770 Map H13

Music + Dance CLUB NOKIA April 1 Vans Warped Tour. April 2 Zucchero. April 6 Schoolboy Q. April 8 Ziggy Marley. April 11 Motorhead. April 15 Bryan Ferry. April 16 The 1975. April 17 Adventure Club. April 23 Revolver Golden Gods. April 24 Plan B. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., L.A., 213.765.7000 Map J13 DOLBY THEATRE April 1-2 Neil Young. April 5 Il Divo. April 12 Ana Barbara. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.308.6300 Map H13 HOUSE OF BLUES April 2 Blackberry Smoke. April 3 Queensryche. April 4 Emancipator Ensemble. April 5 Metal Alliance Tour. April 6 Kid Ink. April 11 Sevendust. April 13 Gospel Brunch. April 14 Steel Panther. April 15 Mindless Self Indulgence. April 16 Mobb Deep. April 20 Gospel Brunch. April 21 Steel Panther. 8430 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.848.5100 Map H12 THE TROUBADOUR April 1 Betty Who. April 2 LoFang. April 3 Particle. April 4–5 The War on Drugs. April 6 The Magic Band. April 8 Katie Herzig. April 9 Boy & Bear. April 10 Together Pangea. April 11 Tyrone Wells. April 12 Turnpike Troubadours. April 13–15, 17, 18 David Crosby. April 19 Marsha Ambrosius. April 21 You Me at Six. April 22 Asher Roth. April 23 Three of Clubs April 24 St. Paul and the Broken Bones. April 25 Miyavi. April 26 E-40. April 28 Augustana. April 30 Mono. 9081 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.276.1158 Map I12

An acclaimed actor as well as dancer, Mikhail Baryshnikov earned an Academy Award nomination for his supporting role in the 1977 film The Turning Point with Anne Bancroft.

T. CHARLES ERICKSON

Mikhail Baryshnikov and Tymberly Canale in a scene from Man in a Case

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Attractions + Museums WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL April 1 Chamber Music Society. April 2 Joshua Redman Quartet, Brad Mehldau Trio. April 3-5 Los Angeles Philharmonic, conductor James Conlon, pianist Garrick Ohlsson. April 4 Pianist Yefim Bronfman, violinist/violist Pinchas Zukerman. April 5 L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Perry So; Rhye. April 6 Los Angeles Master Chorale. April 8 LA Phil New Music Group, John Adams, conductor. April 9 Piano duo Katia & Marielle Labèque. April 11-13 L.A. Philharmonic, conductor John Adams, organist Cameron Carpenter. April 12 L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Antonio Méndez. April 17-19 Los Angeles Master Chorale, L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Grant Gershon. April 18 L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Reinbert de Leeuw. April 23 Violinist Midori. April 24, 25, 27 L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Stéphane Denève, violinist Gil Shaham. April 26 Cheyenne Jackson, special guests Jane Lynch, Rebecca Romijn. April 27 The Colburn Orchestra, conductor James Conlon. April 29 Members of the L.A. Philharmonic. 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 323.850.2000 Map H16

“The Oﬃcial Museum of Hollywood” -Hollywood’s Honorary Mayor, Johnny Grant

IN THE HISTORIC MAX FACTOR BUILDING

THE WILTERN April 2 Willie Nelson. April 3 EmmyLou Harris. April 21 St. Vincent. April 11 Switchfood. April 12 5 Seconds of Summer. April 29 Jennifer Nettles. 3790 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 877.598.8698 Map J13

Sports DODGER STADIUM April 4-6 Los Angeles Dodgers vs. San Francisco Giants. April 8-9 Dodgers vs. Detroit Tigers. April 18-20 Dodgers vs. Arizona Diamondbacks. April 21-24 Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies. April 25-27 Colorado Rockies vs. Dodgers. Dodger Stadium, 1000 Elysian Park Ave., L.A., 323.224.1507 Map G17 STAPLES CENTER April 1 Los Angeles Lakers vs. Portland. April 2 Los Angeles Kings vs. Phoenix. April 3 Los Angeles Clippers vs. Dallas. April 6 Clippers vs. Lakers. April 8 Lakers vs. Houston. April 9 Clippers vs. Oklahoma City. April 11 Lakers vs. Golden State. April 12 Clippers vs. Sacramento; Kings vs. Anaheim. April 13 Lakers vs. Memphis. April 15 Clippers vs. Denver. 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 800.745.3000 Map I15

Attractions

Downtown Santa Monica is known for its weekly farmers’ markets, fabulous dining, shopping, and entertaining street performers. Find your place in the sun. This is everyone’s downtown!

The most extensive collection of costumes, props, posters, and photographs in the world!

AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC Focus is on Pacific Ocean sea life. Pet the sharks at Shark Lagoon; other exhibits include Lorikeet Forest, Turtle Vision 4-D, June Keyes Penguin Habitat. Daily 9 am–6 pm except Christmas and during the Grand Prix of Long Beach (April 11-13, 2014). $14.95–$28.95, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map O16

“#1 Hollywood Tourist Attraction” –LA Weekly

CATALINA EXPRESS Year-round boat service to Catalina Island; daily departures from Long Beach, Dana Point, San Pedro. Reservation recommended. Call for hours. San Pedro, Long Beach: $29.50–$37.25 one-way, $59–$74.50 round-trip; Dana Point: $30.50–$38.25 one-way, $61– $76.50 round-trip; under 2 $2.50–$5. 800.995.4386, catalinaexpress.com CHINATOWN Ornate architecture, dim sum, shops with Eastern wares. Art and antiques on Chung King Road. Between Cesar E. Chavez Avenue and Bernard Street, Yale and Spring streets, downtown Map G17 DESCANSO GARDENS North America’s largest camellia collection (34,000 plants amid 20 acres of oaks) and much more, including lilacs, azaleas, irises. 9 am–5 pm daily. $4–$9, under 5 free. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, 818.949.4200 Map Q19

SEE 10,000 AUTHENTIC SHOWBIZ TREASURES SHOWCASING 100 YEARS OF HOLLYWOOD!

ADAMSON HOUSE 1930s home filled with famed Malibu Potteries tile. Guided tours W–Sa 11 am–3 pm (last tour 2 pm). $2–$7, under 6 free. No credit cards. 23200 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.456.8432 Map west of K7

CMY

“One of LA’s Top 10 Museums” –LA Tourism and Convention Board “Certificate of Excellence” –Trip Advisor

Open: Wed. - Sun. 10am-5pm  Mention this ad at the Santa Monica Place

$2.00 OFF 1660 North Highland Avenue at Hollywood Boulevard Hollywood, California 90028 323.464.7776 www.TheHollywoodMuseum.com

Concierge desk, located on Broadway and Third Street in the Plaza, Level 1, to receive a complimentary Visitor Rewards Book* with over $1,000 in savings and a reusable muslin shopping bag. *While supplies last.

DowntownSM.com

DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE PARK Soarin’ Over California, A Bug’s Land, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Toy Story Mania!, Ariel’s Undersea Adventure.

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Attractions + Museums Cars Land is a recent addition. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $86–$92, under 2 free. 1600 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10 DISNEYLAND Mickey Mouse’s theme park. Attractions include Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage. Updated Star Tours, Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain. Fireworks, fantastic Fantasmic! continues. Call for hours. Admission (includes all rides and attractions): $86–$92, under 3 free. 1600 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map I10

You are invited to experience

Pathways to Paradise

DOLBY THEATRE Tour the home of the Academy Awards, formerly named the Kodak Theatre. Daily 10:30 am–4 pm. $12–$17, under 3 free. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.308.6300 Map H13

May 17, 2014 from 10 AM to 4 PM when the historic Beverly Hills landmark, Virginia Robinson Gardens, will open the doors to the 100-year-old estate for its annual Garden Tour. While at the property, which will be decorated for the occasion by prominent ﬂorists and interior designers, guests will enjoy a fabulous luncheon, exclusive boutique shopping and an informal fashion show. This elegant event also includes a tour of 4 magniﬁcent private gardens on the west side of Los Angeles. For tickets please visit www.RobinsonGardens.com or call 310-550-2068

EGYPTIAN THEATRE Restored 1922 Hollywood landmark screens classics, cult favorites, indie films. Excellent Forever Hollywood screens daily. Call for schedule. $7–$11. 6712 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.466.3456 Map H13 EL CAPITAN THEATRE 1926 Spanish-style movie palace screens Disney films new and old. Musical accompaniment to many shows. Call for schedule. $11–$13. VIP admission with reserved seat $22. 6838 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.7674 Map H13 EL PUEBLO DE LOS ANGELES Birthplace of Los Angeles. Twenty-seven buildings include 1818 Avila Adobe, L.A.’s oldest. 125 Paseo de la Plaza, downtown, 213.628.1274 Map H17 FARMERS MARKET Local landmark with 120 produce stalls, restaurants and gift shops in open-air setting. M–F 9 am–9 pm; Sa 9 am–8 pm; Su 10 am–7 pm. 6333 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.933.9211 Map I13 GAMBLE HOUSE Landmark Arts & Crafts–style home. First come, first served; reservations for daily 2 pm tour one week in advance. Th–Su noon–3 pm. $7–$12.50, under 12 free. 4 Westmoreland Place, Pasadena, 626.793.3334 Map Q19

LONDON SOLE London Sole offers the world’s largest collection of ballet flats, ballerina pumps, classic driving loafers and other exquisite traditional flat footwear from designer Jane Winkworth. The Montana and San Francisco boutiques are hot spots for celebrities who have fallen in love with the simple, sophisticated and sometimes bold designs. 1331 Montana Ave, 310.255.0937 londonsole.com

Sizes 12 & up

GRAND PARK Pleasant urban park positioned between the Music Center and City Hall offers draws such as a farmers market, lunchtime yoga classes, concerts and more community entertainment. Splash pad for kids. 5:30 am–10 pm. Free. Entrances at 200 N. Grand Ave., 221 N. Hill St., 221 N. Broadway and 227 N. Spring St., downtown, 213.972.8080 Map H17 GREYSTONE MANSION AND PARK Gardens and park grounds open daily. 10 am–5 pm most days. Free. 905 Loma Vista Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.285.6830 Map I11 GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY Iconic attraction overlooking Hollywood. Hourly shows at planetarium. Tu–F noon–10 pm; Sa–Su 10 am–10 pm. Free; donations accepted. 2800 E. Observatory Road, L.A., 213.473.0800 Map U23 GUINNESS WORLD RECORD MUSEUM Shrine to amazing achievements. Daily 10 am–midnight. $8.99–$16.99, under 5 free. 6764 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.463.6433 Map H13 HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME Celebs’ names are enshrined in bronze-and-terrazzo stars. Free. Hollywood Boulevard from Gower Street to La Brea Avenue and Vine Street from Yucca Street to Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood, 323.469.8311 Map H13 KNOTT’S BERRY FARM More than 165 rides and attractions. Roller coasters include Silver Bullet, GhostRider and Xcelerator. Call for hours. $28.99– $57.99, under 3 free. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714.220.5200 Map D5 IFLY HOLLYWOOD “Indoor skydiving” via a vertical wind tunnel. Two to four flights per session. Su–Th 11 am–9 pm; F–Sa 11 am–11 pm. $59.95–$99.95.

rosemarie mccaffrey antiques Filled with furniture, paintings and antiques, Rosemarie McCaffrey Antiques & Interiors is a treasure trove of European tastes, originating from the 18th through to the 20th century. Her collection is hand picked. She specializes in French Country furniture, which is unique in combining practicality, elegance, and functionality. Many clients are interior designers who shop with discretion for their famous clients.

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L A’ s C H O I C E F O R OUTLET SHOPPING

Attractions + Museums Universal CityWalk, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.985.4359 Map G13 L.A. LIVE Bustling entertainment center is home to the Grammy Museum, Nokia Theatre and Club Nokia; restaurants, high-tech bowling lanes and nightspots such as the Conga Room. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.763.5483 Map I15 L.A. ZOO AND BOTANICAL GARDENS Wildlife in parklike setting. Rainforest of the Americas exhibit opens late April 2014. Daily except Christmas 10 am–5 pm. $13–$18, under 2 free. Golden State (5) and Ventura (134) freeways, 5333 Zoo Drive, L.A., 323.644.4200 Map T23 LEGOLAND Find 50-plus rides and shows and Sea Life Aquarium’s seven-foot-long Lego submarine. Waterpark open seasonally; summer 2014 expansion to feature Legends of Chima. $73–$83 (add $18/ticket for admission to aquarium or water park; add $24/ticket for admission to all three). Parking $15–25. Call for hours. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.5346

OUTLET STORE

LOS ANGELES COUNTY ARBORETUM & BOTANIC GARDEN Peafowl roam the grounds and roost overhead at 127-acre garden. Make your own idyllic route or take the tram tour. Daily 9 am–5 pm (last admission 4:30 pm); tram tour Sa-Su, $5. Free third Tuesday of the month. $4–$9, under 5 free. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, 626.821.3222 Map Q22 MADAME TUSSAUDS Walk the red carpet and mingle with celebs from screen stars to sports heroes at the world-famous museum of wax figures. M-F 10 am-7 pm, Sa-Su 10 am-8 pm. Adults $25.95, children 4-12 $18.95, students $20.95, under 12 free. 6933 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.798.1670 Map H13 QUEEN MARY SHIP AND SEAPORT Historic ocean liner—bigger than the Titanic!—permanently berthed in Long Beach Harbor. Shops, dining, art deco lounge and restaurant Sir Winston’s. The Russian Foxtrot-class submarine Scorpion is adjacent. M–Th 10 am–6 pm, F–Su 10 am–7 pm for self-guided and guided tours. $13.95– $24.95, under 5 free. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 877.342.0738. Map O16 RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT! MUSEUM Three hundred displays feature curiosities gathered by traveler Robert Ripley in the 1930s. Daily 10 am–midnight. $8.99– $16.99, under 5 free. 6780 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.466.6335 Map H13 RONALD REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM Air Force One Pavilion houses the Flying White House. Daily 10 am–5 pm except New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. $6–$21, under 3 free. 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, 800.410.8354 Map northwest of A1

Conveniently located just 10 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, 30 minutes from Los Angeles’ LAX airport and 25 minutes from Anaheim/Disneyland. Shop and save 30-70% off full retail from over 130 of your favorite brand names.

RUSSIAN FOXTROT SUBMARINE Tour the Scorpion, moored next to historic Queen Mary ocean liner. Daily 10 am–6 pm. $9.95–$10.95, under 4 free. Must be at least 48 inches tall to board submarine. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 877.342.0738. Map O16 SAN ANTONIO WINERY Complimentary tastings and tour of the only producing winery in L.A., which celebrates its 97th anniversary this year. Restaurant and wine shop on site. Su–Thur 9 am–7 pm; Fri–Sat 9 am–8:30 pm. 737 Lamar St., downtown, 323.223.1401 Map G17 SAN GABRIEL MISSION Mission includes the oldest building (1771) in Southern California. Mon–Sa 9 am–4:30 pm; Sun 10 am–4 pm. $3–$5, under 6 free. 427 S. Junipero Serra Drive, San Gabriel, 626.457.3035 Map B4

CITADELOUTLETS.COM

SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN Theme park has 17 coasters, plus dozens of rides and attractions for kids and families. Call for hours. $42.99–$67.99, under 3 free. 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Valencia, 323.461.3331 Map A2

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Attractions + Museums

THE BEST TOURS IN LA

TCL CHINESE THEATRE Historic Hollywood venue (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre) with walkway of stars’ hand- and footprints in the forecourt. Call for movie schedule. 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.464.8111 Map H13

AREN’T ALWAYS IN LA

NIVERSAL CITYWALK Eye-popping dining, shopU ping and entertainment promenade includes boutiques such as Fossil, Guess? and Abercrombie & Fitch, novelty stores and state-of-the-art cinema and IMAX theater. iFLY Hollywood is a simulated sky-diving wind tunnel. Call for hours. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.4455 Map U20

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UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD World’s biggest motion picture/TV studio. Rides include the brand-new 3D, ultra-HD movie motion-simulator ride Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem and adjacent Super Silly Fun Land interactive play zone with Silly Swirly Fun Ride, opening April 10. Tram studio tour includes King Kong 360 3-D and film and TV sets. VIP Experience is private guided tour through prop warehouse, working movie sets, soundstages. Call for hours. $76–$84, under 3 free. Front-of-line pass, $139. VIP Experience $349. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 800.864.8377 Map U20 USS IOWA Former battleship USS Iowa, known as the “Battleship of Presidents,” is permanently docked as a floating museum. The ongoing exhibit follows the ship’s history through World War II, the Korean War and the Cold War. Also explore the missile decks, bridge, mess areas and Captain’s Cabin. M–Su 10 am–5 pm; last ticket sold at 4 pm. $10–$18, under 6 free. Pacific Battleship Center, USS Iowa BB-61, 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro, 877.446.9261 Map O15

310.393.6555 VIRGINIA ROBINSON GARDENS Tour one of Beverly Hills’ first homes, open to the public (by appointment). The historic estate’s idyllic grounds include a grand Italian terrace, rose garden and lush palm-tree forest. Reserve two weeks in advance for a guided tour Tu-F 10 am-1 pm. $11 adults, $6 students, $6 seniors, $4 children 5-12. 1008 Elden Way, Beverly Hills, 310.276.5367 Map I10

MalibuDiscovery.com

ALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL Frank Gehry-designed W architectural landmark at the Music Center. Tour options include hour-long, self-guided audio tours and docent-led tours. Free for individuals or groups up to 14 people. Tours for 15 or more by reservation, $15 per guest guided or $10 per guest self-guided. Hours and days vary; visit musiccenter.org for schedule. 151 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.4399 Map H16

Studio Tours ONY PICTURES STUDIOS TOUR Two-hour walking S tour of working motion picture studio includes sets of television shows and films. Reservation, photo ID required. M–F 9:30 am–2:30 pm. $38; under 12 not admitted. Parking free. 10202 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.244.8687 Map L11

The GRAMMY Museum®

THE STUDIOS AT PARAMOUNT Two-hour group tour of the longest-operating and only remaining major studio in Hollywood. Reservation required. Tours daily (holidays exempt) every half hour 9:30 am–2:00 pm (weekend schedules may vary). VIP tour available. $48. 5555 Melrose Ave., Hollywood, 323.956.1777 Map I14

Exhibit Opens June 12, 2013 The GRAMMY Museum at LA LIVE 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90015

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD Legendary studio tour. Universal’s VIP Experience is private guided tour through prop warehouse, working movie sets, soundstages. Call for hours. $76–84, under 3 free. Frontof-line pass, $139. VIP Experience $349. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.3801 Map U20 WARNER BROS. STUDIOS Two-hour VIP tour of working movie and TV studio includes backlots, enormous soundstages and costume department, memorabilia museum and observation of filming when possible. Deluxe tour

Monday-Friday 11:30am - 7:30pm, Saturday- Sunday 10:00am - 7:30pm

For more information, go to GRAMMYMUSEUM.ORG GRAMMY Museum and the Museum logo are registered trademarks of The Recording Academy and are used under license. R

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Attractions + Museums available. Reservation recommended; photo ID required. Daily except Christmas. $54, under 8 not admitted. 3400 Riverside Drive, Burbank, 818.972.8087 Map U20

Studio Tapings AUDIENCES UNLIMITED Free tickets to live tapings of TV shows on CBS, FOX, NBC and CW. Minimum age 10–18, varies by show. Satellite TV Ticket Booth, Universal Studios Hollywood, 818.260.0041, Ext. 1. tvtickets.com THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW Free tickets for taping of comedian’s daytime talk show. Minimum age 14; minors must show photo ID and be accompanied by a parent. Advance tickets, go to ellen.warnerbros.com/tickets; dayof tickets, call before noon. Warner Bros. Studios, 3400 Riverside Drive, Burbank, 818.954.5929 Map U20 J IMMY KIMMEL LIVE! Free tickets for live tapings of late-night ABC show. Minimum age 18. Phone line open M–F 1–4 pm. El Capitan Entertainment Center, 6840 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 866.546.6984, 1iota.com Map H13 ON-CAMERA AUDIENCES Free tickets to live tapings of TV shows including So You Think You Can Dance, The Price is Right, Chelsea Lately. Minimum age 12–18, varies by show. 818.295.2700, mytvtickets.com

Museums THE ANNENBERG SPACE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY Ten thousand square feet with digital projection gallery, print exhibit area. Through April 27 The Power of Photography: National Geographic 125 Years. W–F 11 am–6 pm, Sa 11 am–9 pm, Su 11 am–6 pm. Parking $3.50, $1 after 4:30 pm and all day Sa–Su. Admission free. 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Century City, 310.209.4560 Map J11 AUTRY NATIONAL CENTER Continuing Floral Journey: Native North American Beadwork. Ongoing Western Frontiers; Four Centuries of Pueblo Pottery; Collection and Conservation Highlights of the Southwest Museum of the American Indian Collection; Art of the West; Western Frontiers: Stories of Fact and Fiction. Tu–Sa 10 am–4 pm, Su 11 am–5 pm. $4–$10, under 3 free. 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.667.2000 Map H14 ALIFORNIA AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM History, C culture, art. Through April 6 Soul Stirring: African American Self-Taught Artists From the South. Continuing Question Bridge; A Memoir in Movement: Carmen de Lavallade and Geoffrey Holder; Hands on Design; The March on Washington: A Tribute, 50 Years Later. Tu–Sa 10 am–5 pm; Su 11 am–5 pm. Free. Parking $10. 600 State Drive, Exposition Park, 213.744.7432 Map M8

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CALIFORNIA HERITAGE MUSEUM American decorative arts, folk art. W–Su 11 am–4 pm. $5–$8, children under 12 free. 2612 Main St., Santa Monica, 310.392.8537 Map M8 CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER Interactive exhibits for budding scientists. Through April 7 Destination Station. Ongoing Mission 26: The Big Endeavour. Daily 10 am–5 pm. Permanent exhibition gallery, free; admission for other exhibits and Imax varies. Parking $10. 700 State Drive, Exposition Park, downtown, 323.724.3623 Map K15 HINESE AMERICAN MUSEUM Housed in oldest C structure of L.A.’s original Chinatown. Continuing LA Heat: Taste Changing Condiments Ongoing Journeys; Sun Wing Wo General Store and Herb Shop; Origins: The Birth and Rise of Chinese American Communities in Los Angeles. Tu–Su 10 am–3 pm. $2–$3 donation. El Pueblo de Los Angeles, 425 N. Los Angeles St., downtown, 213.485.8567 Map H17 RAFT AND FOLK ART MUSEUM International folk and C contemporary craft art. Through April 27 Timothy Washington: Love Thy Neighbor; Displacements: The Craft Practices

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INDOOR KART RACING

of Golnar Adili and Samira Yamin; Shirley Familian: 19,275 Stamps. Tu–F 11 am–5 pm, Sa–Su noon–6 pm. $5–$7, under 11 free. 5814 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.937.4230 Map J13 FASHION INSTITUTE OF DESIGN AND MERCHANDISING (FIDM) Museum & Galleries on fashion school campus. Through April 26 22nd Annual Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition. T–Sa 10 am–5 pm. Free. 919 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.624.1200 Map I16

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FOWLER MUSEUM Art and material culture from Africa, Asia, the Pacific, the Americas. Through April 22 Fowler in Focus: Fiftieth Anniversary Gifts. Ongoing Intersections: World Arts, Local Lives; Reflecting Culture: The Francis E. Fowler Jr. Collection of Silver. W–Su noon–5 pm, Th until 8 pm. Free. Parking $3–$12. UCLA, 308 Charles E. Young Drive N., Westwood, 310.825.4361 Map I10

ELECTRIC

FREDERICK R. WEISMAN ART FOUNDATION Tour Weisman’s Bel-Air estate, gardens, stunning collection of 20th-century works by Picasso, Rothko, Warhol, others. By appointment only, M–F 10:30 am and 2 pm. Admission free. 310.277.5321 Map I10 GETTY CENTER Travertine-clad hilltop facility houses stunning collections of paintings, drawings, antiquities, photographs and decorative arts. Fabulous garden and views. Continuing Jackson Pollock’s Mural; Hatch! Creating Form with Line; In Focus: Ansel Adams; Heaven and Earth: Byzantine Illumination at the Cultural Crossroads. Through April 20 Werner Herzog: Hearsay of the Soul. Ongoing The Life of Art: Context, Collecting and Display. (See getty.edu for additional exhibits.) Tu–F, Su 10 am–5:30 pm; Sa 10 am–9 pm. Free. Parking $15, $10 F–Sa after 5 pm. 1200 Getty Center Drive, L.A., 310.440.7300 Map K7 GETTY VILLA Getty Center’s exquisite coastal counterpart features Roman and Greek antiquities. Opening April 9 Heaven and Earth: Byzantine Illumination at the Cultural Crossroads. Continuing Relief With Antiochos and Herakles. Ongoing Molten Color: Glassmaking in Antiquity. W–M 10 am–5 pm. Free. Parking $15, $10 after 5 pm for evening programs. Advance timed tickets required for entry. 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades, 310.440.7300 Map K7 GRAMMY MUSEUM Museum on L.A. Live campus explores music, the creative and recording processes, and Grammy Award history. Continuing Barry White, Unlimited Love; Blue Note Records: The Finest in Jazz; Cheap Trick: I Want You to Want Me!; Jenni Rivera, La Gran Señora; Plácido Domingo: A Tenor’s Story. Through April 27 Ringo: Peace & Love. Ongoing Michael Jackson. M–F 11:30 am–7:30 pm, Sa–Su 10 am–7:30 pm. $10.95–$12.95, under 6 free. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.765.6800 Map I15

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$10 OFF*

Admission Located at 6933 Hollywood Blvd. next door to the TCL Chinese Theatre on the Walk of Fame

HAMMER MUSEUM Traveling shows and installations and permanent collection. Continuing Take It or Leave It: Institution, Image, Ideology; Hammer Projects: Nathaniel Mellors; Tea and Morphine: Women in Paris, 1880-1914. Tu–F 11 am–8 pm, Sa–Su 11 am–5 pm. Free admission. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Westwood, 310.443.7000 Map J10 HOLLYWOOD MUSEUM Ten thousand artifacts on view; don’t miss Max Factor’s makeup rooms, where Marilyn Monroe became a blonde and Lucille Ball a redhead. Through April 6 Marlene Dietrich Auction Items Through April 30 Celebration of Entertainment Awards (see thehollywoodmuseum.com for more). In restored Max Factor Building. W–Su 10 am–5 pm. $12–$15. 1660 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.464.7776 Map H13 HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART COLLECTIONS, AND BOTANICAL GARDENS Art, buildings and grounds, with more than a dozen themed gardens. Gallery includes Pinkie and The Blue Boy. Continuing Lost and Found: The Secrets of Archimedes; Seduction in Stone: Jean-Antoine Houdon’s Bust of Madame de Vermenoux. M, W-F noon–4:30 pm; Sa-Su 10:30 am -4:30 pm. $8–$23, under 5 free. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, 626.405.2141 Map R21

Open DAILY at 10am

* Scan this QR code and present the coupon at the box office to receive $10.00 off regular Adult/Child admission up to six (6) total admissions. Not valid for advance ticket purchase, combo packages or any other offers. Restrictions apply. The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds. Madame Tussauds reserves the right to remove and/or change figures in the attraction. Promo code 5044. Expires 7/31/14.

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LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART Diverse, superb collections; Broad Contemporary Art Museum and Resnick Pavilion are latest additions. LACMA West nearby. Through April 6 James Turrell: A Retrospective. Through April 20 David Hockney: The Jugglers. Continuing Helen Pashgian: Light Invisible; Visions of the South; Fútbol: The Beautiful Game; Kaz Oshiro: Chasing Ghosts; Four Abstract Classicists; Calder and Abstraction: From AvantGarde to Iconic; Agnès Varda in Californialand; John Divola: As Far as I Could Get; Shaping Power: Luba Masterworks from the Royal Museum for Central Africa. Ongoing Levitated Mass; Metropolis II. M–Tu, Th 11 am–5 pm, F until 8 pm; Sa–Su 10 am–7 pm. $10–$15, under 18 free. LACMA West free. LACMA, 5905 Wilshire Blvd.; LACMA West, 6067 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6000 Map J13

IER

LOS ANGELES MUSEUM OF THE HOLOCAUST The West Coast’s largest archive of Holocaust-era documents, relics and other primary source materials. Interactive and audiovisual exhibits include The World That Was touchscreen table; models include a re-creation of a train car used to transport prisoners and the Sobibor death camp. Sa–Th 10 am–5 pm, F 10 am–2 pm. Free. Pan Pacific Park, 100 S. The Grove Drive, L.A., 323.651.3704 Map I12

MUSEUM OF TOLERANCE www.museumoftolerance.com

9786 west pico boulevard los angeles, ca 90035 t: 310.772.2506

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART Premier contemporary art museum housed in three facilities. Opening April 27 Cinema Vizzoli (GA). Continuing Jacob Hashimoto: Gas Giant (PDC); Mike Kelley (GC). Ongoing Selections from the Permanent Collection (GA). GA and GC: M, F 11 am–5 pm, Th 11 am–8 pm, Sa–Su 11 am–6 pm. PDC: Tu–F 11 am–5 pm, Sa–Su until 6 pm. $7–$12, under 12 free, Th 5–8 pm free; free at PDC. MOCA Grand Avenue (GA), 250 S. Grand Ave., downtown; Geffen Contemporary (GC), 152 N. Central Ave., downtown; MOCA Gallery at Pacific Design Center (PDC), 8687 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 213.626.6222 Map H16, H17, I12 MUSEUM OF FLYING Exhibits detail the history of flight and the development of the aviation and aerospace industries in Southern California. Two dozen aircraft are on display; theater and screening room. W–Su 10 am–5 pm. $6–$10, under 5 free. 3100 Airport Ave., Santa Monica, 310.398.2500 Map L9 MUSEUM OF JURASSIC TECHNOLOGY Subversive venue blends fact and fiction. Th 2–8 pm, F–Su noon–6 pm. $5–$8 suggested donation, under 13 free. 9341 Venice Blvd., Culver City, 310.836.6131 Map L11 MUSEUM OF TOLERANCE Exhibits on prejudice and discrimination, legacy of the Holocaust and humanrights issues. Continuing Anne. M–W 10 am–5 pm, Th 10 am–9:30 pm, F 10 am–3:30 pm, Su 11 am–5 pm. $11.50–$15.50, under 5 free. 9786 W. Pico Blvd., West L.A., 310.553.8403 Map J11 NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY Thirty-three million objects from dino fossils to fish. The 3.5-acre Nature Gardens and interactive Nature Lab are new to the museum. The Tyrannosaurus rex growth series is a highlight of the Dinosaur Hall. Opening April 13 The Butterfly Pavilion. Through April 13 Traveling the Silk Road. Continuing Just Add Water. Ongoing Age of Mammals; Becoming Los Angeles. Daily 9:30 am–5 pm. $5–$12, under 5 free. 900 Exposition Blvd., downtown, 213.763.3466 Map K15

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.

NORTON SIMON MUSEUM Stellar collection of Renaissance to 20th-century masterworks and sculpture garden. Opening April 4 Face It: The Photographic Portrait. Continuing In the Land of Snow: Buddhist Art of the Himalayas. W–M noon–6 pm, F until 9 pm. $7–$10; students with photo ID, under 19 free. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.449.6840 Map Q19

*Except Christmas Day

PAGE MUSEUM AT THE LA BREA TAR PITS Watch paleontologists at work uncovering Ice Age L.A.. The main attraction is the ever-bubbling tar pit, one of the world’s most famous fossil-excavation sites. Daily 9:30 am–5 pm. $5–$12, under 3 free. 5801 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.934.7243 Map J13

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Shopping PALEY CENTER FOR MEDIA Exhibits, screenings and radio-listening series; tens of thousands of programs on view. Ongoing Television Out of the Box. W–Su noon–5 pm. Suggested donation $5–$10. 465 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.786.1000 Map I11

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PASADENA MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA ART California art, architecture, design. Through April 20 Picturing Mexico: Alfredo Ramos Martínez in California; Serigrafía; Flora Kao: Homestead. W–Su noon–5 pm. $5–$7, under 12 free. 490 E. Union St., Pasadena, 626.568.3665 Map Q19 SKIRBALL CULTURAL CENTER The American Jewish experience. Opening April 10 The Snowy Day and the Art of Ezra Jack Keats. Continuing To the Point: Posters by Dan Reisinger. Ongoing Noah’s Ark at the Skirball; Visions and Values: Jewish Life From Antiquity to America. Tu–F noon–5 pm; Sa–Su 10 am–5 pm. $5–10, free on Thursdays, children under 2 free. 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A., 310.440.4500 Map G9

4 famous attractions

Shopping Destinations THE AMERICANA AT BRAND Huge downtown Glendale hot spot with Main Street, U.S.A., atmosphere and trolley from the creators of the Grove. Ninety stores and dining options. Boutiques include a Tiffany & Co. concept store, Kate Spade and Kiehl’s; other draws include H&M, Barneys CO-OP and Pacific Theatre cinema. Brand Boulevard and Americana Way, Glendale, 818.637.8900 Map southeast of T23

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BEVERLY CENTER Trendsetting mall near West Hollywood has 160 boutiques (Tiffany & Co., Versace Collection, Fendi, Henri Bendel, Prada) and restaurants including the Capital Grille. Anchors include Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s. La Cienega and Beverly boulevards, L.A., 310.854.0070 Map I12 CITADEL OUTLETS Assyrian architecture south of downtown stands out along the Golden State (5) Freeway; the center offers discount duds from BCBG, Banana Republic, Levi’s and Converse, to name just a few. 100 Citadel Drive, Commerce, 323.888.1724 Map B4 DEL AMO FASHION CENTER More than 300 stores with Macy’s and MAC, and 18 movie screens. High-tech Lucky Strike Lanes draws a young crowd for hip bowling, and TJ Maxx draws bargain hunters of all ages. 3525 Carson St., Torrance, 310.542.8525 Map D2 FIGAT7TH Center features hip, casual eateries and food purveyors such as Juicy Lucy, Lotería Grill, Mendocino Farms and Sprinkles Cupcakes, plus City Target and Gold’s Gym. M–F 10 am–7 pm, Sa 10 am–6 pm, Su noon–5 pm. Restaurant hours vary. 735 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.955.7150 Map H16 FASHION DISTRICT A bargain hunter’s paradise. More than 1,000 stores sell to the public at 30%–70% discounts on apparel, accessories, textiles and flowers. Between Main and San Pedro streets; Olympic Boulevard and 7th Street, downtown, 213.488.1153 Map J16 FRED SEGAL A multitude of international trends since 1968 began in what may be L.A.’s most famous store, an emporium of individually owned boutiques. Cafe and salon are popular for shoppers and drop-ins. 8100 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 310.394.1271; 420 and 500 Broadway, Santa Monica, 323.651.1935 Map I13, L8 GLENDALE GALLERIA Family-oriented mall with department stores and boutiques including Nordstrom, Crabtree & Evelyn and Vans. Colorado Boulevard and Central Avenue, Glendale, 818.240.9481 Map U23 THE GROVE Popular outdoor center has more than 50 shops, Nordstrom and nine restaurants in a setting that suggests a grand old downtown. Movie theater, trolley and dancing fountain are draws. The Wall Street Journal rates concierge services No. 1 in the nation. Privileges membership program offers benefits including complimentary valet

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Shopping parking, private shopping events, restaurant tastings and personal styling service. Adjacent to Farmers Market. 3rd Street and Fairfax Avenue, L.A., 888.315.8883 Map I13 HOLLYWOOD & HIGHLAND CENTER Home of the Academy Awards’ Dolby Theatre. Tinseltown-themed retail, dining and entertainment center features several restaurants, cinema, high-tech bowling lanes and stores such as Louis Vuitton and Lucky Brand Jeans. Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue, Hollywood, 323.467.6412 Map H13 JAPANESE VILLAGE PLAZA Popular plaza in Little Tokyo features some 40 shops selling Japanese books, art, gifts and sundries. Restaurants are Japanese, though one serves excellent Korean barbecue. Mikawaya sells mochi ice cream. 335 E. 2nd St., downtown Map H17

WHAt is your reLAtionsHiP to tHe HoLocAust?

JEWELRY DISTRICT Retailers offer 50%–70% savings on gems, watches and fine jewelry. At the St. Vincent’s Jewelry Center (645–650 S. Hill St.), you’ll find 500 jewelry merchants. Between Olive Street and Broadway, from 6th to 8th streets, downtown Map I16 MALIBU COUNTRY MART Outdoor center with upscale boutiques such as Ron Herman, Yosemite by James Perse, Madison; galleries, spas, children’s play area. Restaurants include Mr. Chow. 3835 and 3900 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.7300 Map northwest of K7

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ALIBU LUMBER YARD Small collection of upscale M retailers adjacent to Malibu Country Mart, including Alice + Olivia, Maxfield, Kitson and Tory Burch. 3939 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.7395

Free to the Public 7 Days a Week

ANHATTAN VILLAGE This mall by the shore M features a Diane’s Beachwear as well as a Macy’s and Macy’s Men’s and Home. Concierges assist with taxies, strollers and even lottery tickets. 3200 Sepulveda Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.546.5555 Map L13 METLOX Pottery factory converted to upscale shopping destination; Trilogy Spa, the Beehive and Bloume Baby boutiques and restaurants including Petros Greek Cuisine. Between Manhattan Beach Boulevard, Valley and Morningside drives and Manhattan Beach Civic Center Map L13 ONE COLORADO Outdoor plaza with boutiques such as Gold Bug, Kate Spade, Juicy Couture, Oska, Armani A/X and deluxe movie theater Ipic Theaters. Refuel after retail therapy at Italian restaurant Il Fornaio or Sushi Roku. 41 Hugus Alley, Old Pasadena, 626.564.1066 Map Q19

Turquoise bracelet circa 1930's, Zuni Tribe with silver bead necklace.

ONTARIO MILLS OUTLETS California’s largest outlet shopping destination. Among 200 stores are Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss Factory Store, DKNY, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Last Call by Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom Rack. Thirty-screen cineplex. 1 Mills Circle, Ontario, 909.484.8300 Map east of B6 PASEO COLORADO Outdoor shopping promenade near Old Town features Loft, Coach and an ArcLight Cinemas. Los Robles Avenue and Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, 626.795.8891 Map Q20 THE PIKE AT RAINBOW HARBOR Shopping and entertainment district links the Long Beach Convention Center to Rainbow Harbor’s waterfront and the Aquarium of the Pacific. Shops include Restoration Hardware Outlet and Piccolo Books. 95 S. Pine Ave., Long Beach, 562.432.8325 Map N16 ANTA MONICA PLACE Sleek outdoor mall at one S end of Third Street Promenade, two blocks from Santa Monica State Beach. Anchored by Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. More than 80 boutiques including 7 for All Mankind, CB2 and Barneys CO-OP. Rooftop Dining Deck with food court, nine restaurants and gourmet market. 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, 310.394.1049 Map L8

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Tours +Transport SOUTH COAST PLAZA High-end center boasts nearly 300 boutiques, 30 restaurants and several spas. Stores include Chanel, Gucci, Valentino, Chloé, Jimmy Choo, Christian Dior. Concierge at five locations. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map E6 SUNSET PLAZA Upscale row of boutiques and sidewalk cafes is L.A.’s Euro hang. Calypso, Ole Henriksen spa and H. Lorenzo stores. 8600–8700 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood Map H12

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M vIe s tars hO MOvI

THIRD STREET PROMENADE Pedestrian-only shopping zone includes Zara, Cotton On, Converse, Anthropologie, kiosks and a wide array of very entertaining street performers. 3rd Street between Broadway and Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica Map L8 TWO RODEO Center with cobblestones in the heart of Beverly Hills features Versace, Stephen Webster and other high-end boutiques, plus restaurants including 208 Rodeo. At Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, 310.247.7040 Map J11 WESTFIELD AT LAX Visitors flying in and out of LAX can shop and taste the best of the city at the new collection of retailers at the Tom Bradley International Terminal. Look for LA-brands Kitson and Fred Segal, as well as Sanrio, Tumi, Bulgari and Bliss. Grab a bite or to-go from The Larder, Border Grill and 800 Degrees. 1 World Way, L.A., westfieldatlax.com Map 010

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WESTFIELD CENTURY CITY Sleek open-air mall with more than 175 stores, including Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s and Tiffany & Co. Luxe AMC multiplex with Imax screen, beautifully designed food court atrium and terrace and fine dining including Seasons 52 and Toscanova. 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Century City, 310.277.3898 Map J11

Español Español Français

ESTSIDE PAVILION Center south of Westwood W Village is anchored by Nordstrom and Macy’s. Landmark theater is the country’s most spectacular indie cineplex. 10800 W. Pico Blvd., West L.A., 310.474.6255 Map J11

Tours + Transport AMTRAK Train and bus service within the county, along the coast and to major California locations. Nationwide connections, multiple-day rail passes. Stations in Burbank, downtown (Union Station), Long Beach, Pasadena and Van Nuys. The Coast Starlight connects L.A. to Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Portland and Seattle. 800.872.7245, amtrak.com ANOTHER SIDE OF LOS ANGELES TOURS A wide variety of focused tours, organized by interest—shopping, celebrity homes, etc. Segway and hiking tours available. 1102 S. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.289.8687, anothersideoflosangelestours.com

EspañolFrançais

BEVERLY HILLS RENT-A-CAR Luxury and exotic rentals. Hollywood, 310.659.5555; Beverly Hills, 310.274.6969; LAX, 310.670.2020; bhrentacar.com BEVERLY HILLS TROLLEY TOUR Forty-minute tour of landmarks, attractions; departs from Rodeo Drive and Dayton Way. Sa-Su 11 am–4 pm. $5–$10. 310.285.2442 Map J11 BIG BLUE BUS Santa Monica city bus line covers the Westside. Well-kept environmentally friendly buses burn cleaner gas. 50¢–$2. 310.451.5444, bigbluebus.com

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Deutsch Deutsch

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Secrets & Celebrity Hotspots

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1-hour Hollywood Fun Tours, Beach Tours, Night Tours, Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood, Six Flags, Warner Bros VIP Tour, San Diego and Tijuana

AMERICAN LIMOUSINE & SIGHTSEEING TOURS Transportation or customized tours of L.A. and Southern California in full range of limousines and luxury vehicles. 877.885.4667, americanlimos.org ART MUSE LOS ANGELES Illuminating art-museum tours. Call for rates. Museum admission included. 773.350.9094, artmusela.com

MULTILINGUAL COMMENTARY

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Tel: 1-800-959-3131 or 1-323-463-3333 Main Starline Terminal is at TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd. Santa Monica Office is on Santa Monica Pier Anaheim Terminal is at Travelodge, 2060 S. Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92802

OFF

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SPECIAL WHERE OFFER *VALID FOR ANY STARLINE TOUR EXCLUDING “SPECIALS”. HOTEL PICK-UPS AVAILABLE. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER DISCOUNT. NOT VALID FOR ONLINE RESERVATIONS OR PRIOR BOOKINGS. VALID ONLY FOR CUSTOMERS WHO PURCHASE TICKETS DIRECTLY AT STARLINE KIOSK AT CHINESE THEATRE OR CONTACT STARLINE DIRECTLY AT 1-323-463-3333 OR 1-800-959-3131. VALID THROUGH 6/30/14.

3/18/14 2:29 PM

Tours +Transport BIKES & HIKES L.A. Biking and/or hiking tours in customizable or preset itineraries. Tours include LA in a Day Bike Tour and Hollywood Bike Tour. Hybrid, road and mountain bike rentals. 8743 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.796.8555 Map I12 CITYPASS Southern California CityPass offers discounted admission to Disneyland Resort and Disney California Adventure (including one Magic Morning admission), Universal Studios Hollywood (including the behind-the-scenes Studio Tour, all rides and attractions) and Seaworld San Diego. $328, ages 3–9 $284, under 3 free. Purchase pass at attractions. 888.330.5008, citypass.com DOWNTOWN ART WALK Pedestrians fill the streets of downtown Los Angeles around Spring and Main streets between 2nd and 9th streets for this self-guided gallery tour. Second Thursday of every month, noon–10 pm; lounge open from 6–10 pm. Free. 213.617.4929 ext. 206, downtownartwalk.org ELITE ADVENTURE TOURS Unique, upscale tours, including helicopter and wine tours, with first class service. Includes pick-up and drop off at hotel or airport. Reservations required. 888.328.6871, eliteadventuretours.com LOS ANGELES CONSERVANCY Self-walking tours with a focus on architecture. More than a dozen fascinating tours focus variously on Broadway’s Historic Theatre District, the Millennium Biltmore Hotel, Union Station and Angelino Heights. Call for specialty tours. 213.623.2489, laconservancy.org MALIBU DISCOVERY Themed tours in and around Malibu include the six-hour Malibu Wine Trail Tour with wine tastings, Sunrise Hiking Tour, Malibu Movie & Celebrity Tour, Twilight Wine and Dine Tour and Deluxe Sightseeing Tour. 310.393.6555, malibudiscovery.com MELTING POT FOOD TOURS Tasting tours of foodie destinations such as Farmers Market or a selection of restaurants. Private tours available. Reservation required. $28–$125. 424.247.9666; tickets, 800.979.3370, meltingpottours.com STARLINE TOURS Hollywood’s largest celebrity tour company offers a full range of tours including Movie Stars Homes, Hop-on Hop-off, City & Beaches, Theme Parks, San Diego & Tijuana. Prices vary. Tours begin at TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 800.959.3131 Map H13 SUPERSHUTTLE Shared-ride shuttle service to and from airport. Group rates, charters, and frequent-flier points and miles with select airlines. 800.258.3826, supershuttle.com TAKE MY MOTHER PLEASE Enthusiastic, “curly headed” Arkansas native packs up to five of your visiting relatives (or other VIPs) in a new hybrid SUV for customized tour of “gloriously unusual” sights. 323.737.2200 TMZ HOLLYWOOD TOUR Bus tour with state-of-theart audio/video system explores celebrity haunts and sites of famous scandals. TMZ Guides are at the ready to interview celebrities and send footage back to the newsroom. $55–$69. Starline Tours, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 855.486.9868 Map H13 TOURIFIC ESCAPES Husband-and-wife team offer sightseeing and food tours such as Hollywood Sites and Bites & Chocolate Indulgence. Prices vary. 424.248.8687, tourificescapes.com

where?

Log on anywhere WhereLA.com WHERE LOS ANGELES 97

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GO METRO Despite what you may have heard, you can get to many Los Angeles attractions without a car. Metro is the nation’s second-largest public transportation agency, operating 2,200 buses and six rail lines, including a subway that can take you from downtown to Hollywood in about 15 minutes. Whether you’re interested in seeing stars along the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame, catching rays at Santa Monica Beach or touring any number of L.A. landmarks, Metro can take you there.

Where to Start

Use the Trip Planner at metro.net or call 323.GO.METRO for customized travel itineraries. Note that some popular attractions served by Metro Rail are listed to the right.

Fares

Metro’s base fare is $1.50. Pay each time you board a Metro bus (drivers don’t carry change, so you’ll need exact fare) or at a self-service ticket vending machine when entering Metro Rail stations. For complete information, check metro.net. Two children under the age of 5 may travel free with each fare-paying adult. Eating and drinking is not permitted on any Metro bus or train. Note: Metro has installed turnstiles at many Metro Rail stations; others simply operate on the honor system. However, fare inspectors randomly check passengers for valid tickets or passes. You may never be checked, but if you are and you don’t have proof of valid fare, the inspector may issue a citation and you may be fined.

Hours

Most bus and rail lines start around 4 a.m. and keep running past midnight. But they’re less frequent in the late evening, so check the timetables at metro.net regarding your return trip.

Metro Rail Destinations

Here’s a sampling of attractions that are within easy walking distance of Metro Rail stations: METRO RED/PURPLE LINE Union Station • Olvera Street

Civic Center • Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels • Museum of Contemporary Art • Music Center • Walt Disney Concert Hall 7th Street/Metro Center • Macy’s Plaza (dining, shops) • FIGat7th (dining, shops) Hollywood/Vine • Capitol Records Tower • Hollywood Walk of Fame • Pantages Theatre Hollywood/Highland • TCL Chinese Theatre • Hollywood & Highland (dining, shops) Universal City/Studio City • Universal CityWalk (dining, shops) • Universal Studios Hollywood North Hollywood • El Portal Center for the Arts • NoHo Arts District (dining, shops, theatres)

METRO BLUE LINE

Pico • Los Angeles Convention Center • STAPLES Center/L.A. LIVE 103rd Street • Watts Towers Transit Mall • Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific • Pine Avenue (dining, shops) • Queen Mary

METRO GOLD LINE

Little Tokyo/Arts District • Japanese American National Museum Memorial Park • Norton Simon Museum Lake Avenue • Pasadena Playhouse

METRO EXPO LINE

Expo Park/USC Station • California Science Center SEE THE METRO ROUTE MAP ON PAGE 103.

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angeles

Oaxacan duffel bags from Will Leather Goods in Venice. 310.399.8700

Vivid, L.A.-made Clover Canyon frocks at Bloomingdale’s Century City. 310.772.2100

Lobster rolls at homey Blue Plate Oysterette in Santa Monica. 310.576.3474

Kaya toast at Susan Feniger’s Mud Hen Tavern in Hollywood. 323.203.0500

Coachella-perfect sandals from Calleen Cordero in West Hollywood. 310.360.0527

The grown-up seashell necklace at Isabel Marant on Melrose Place. 323.651.1493

Cobia crudo at City Tavern’s new FIGat7th location downtown. 213.239.5654

Make-your-own Havaianas at Westfield Topanga shopping center. 424.292.6100

The Mighty Wurlitzer organ at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood. p. 88

Breakfast sandwiches from Eggslut at Grand Central Market downtown. 213.624.2378

The return of baseball at Dodger Stadium in Chavez Ravine. p. 10

The CinqueTerre tasting plates and marina views at Cafe del Rey in Marina del Rey. 310.823.6395

Thirty-minute, $40 facials at the new Face Haus facial studio in Studio City. 855.550.4287

The annual Butterfly Pavilion opening April 13 at the Natural History Museum. p. 93

Luxe home fragrances at the new Diptyque store in Larchmont Village. 323.962.3623

Edgy art at the Hammer Museum’s Take It or Leave It exhibit in Westwood. p. 92

Moscow Mules at Abigaile in Hermosa Beach. 310.798.8227

Stumptown coffee at trendy Alfred Coffee & Kitchen on Melrose Place. 323.944.0811

Mean mai tais at Circa in Manhattan Beach. 310.374.4422

Santa Monica’s new Tongva Park and Ken Genser Square. tongvapark.squarespace.com

Venice’s très belle new Caudalie boutique and spa. 310.450.3560

Perfect arches from Kelley Baker Brows in Beverly Hills. 310.461.3839

Meringue cloud cakes from Bo Nuage on Melrose Avenue. 310.880.2065

Chocolate Easter bunnies from Compartés Chocolatier in Brentwood. 310.826.3380

where in the world

Where is an international network of magazines first published in 1936 and distributed in 4,000 leading hotels in more than 50 places around the world. Look for us when you visit any of the following cities, or plan ahead for your next trip by visiting us online at wheretraveler.com UNITED STATES Alaska, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Georgia, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, Minneapolis/St. Paul,

Happy hour margaritas at Petty Cash Taqueria on Beverly Boulevard. 323.933.5300 Caprese salad at Obikà Mozzarella Bar in Century City. 310.556.2452

Whale watching at Point Vicente Interpretive Center in Rancho Palos Verdes. 310.377.5370 Dreamy truffle mushroom croquettes at Fig & Olive in West Hollywood. p. 73 The restored historic Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain at Grand Park, downtown. p. 88 The drop-in sketching gallery at the Getty Center. p. 92

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