Where Now

SPRING FEBRUARY

DINING DINING

It’s Tiki Time

This elevated tiki bar and restaurant is the new hotspot to hit Venice Beach. Brought to you by the same team behind other trendy LA eateries including Elephante and The Eveleigh, Belle’s Beach House has an expansive indoor and outdoor dining room situated along Windward Avenue—the street famous for the neon Venice sign. Crispy rock shrimp tempura, chilled snap peas, and fresh sushi are just a few of the popular dishes on the Asian fusion menu. For drinks, order one of the playful slushie cocktails served in a tiki glass or try a craft cocktail such as the Heat Stroke, a tequila-based drink made with chili and a smoked cayenne salt rim for a kick. Whether you’re on a date or dining with a group, Belle’s Beach House is a fun beachside eatery with laidback vibes.

Wagyu rib-eye at Grandmaster Recorders

Music to your ears

If the walls at Grandmaster Recorders could speak, they would have fascinating stories to tell about the legendary musicians that have walked through the doors—Stevie Wonder, Foo Fighters, and Red Hot Chili Peppers are just a few. The former recording studio in the Vinyl District is now a three-story venue in the heart of Hollywood. The intimate cocktail lounge on the first floor, 71 Studio, is named after the year the studio opened, and pays homage to the musical era made popular in the 70s with a shiny disco ball front and center. Upstairs, an expansive 150-seat dining room awaits with high wood-beamed ceilings and a firetruck red bow truss. Indulge in the caviar cannoli topped with Petrossian caviar or the decadent Wagyu rib-eye and then head to the rooftop bar for craft cocktails and spectacular views of the Hollywood sign.

Pasta la vista!

The burgeoning West Adams neighborhood welcomes newcomer Cento (pronounced chin-toe), a former pasta pop-up turned brick-and-mortar. Bestia alum, chef Avner Levi, creates a seasonal menu centered around classic pasta dishes with a Middle Eastern flair. Menu highlights include a Persian saffron sea urchin spaghetti, a sweet corn carbonara with pancetta and white truffle, and a hearty beet spaghetti for a lighter option. Snag a seat at the chef’s counter, a wraparound marble bar which gives diners a close look at the chefs in action. Indoors, a larger than life pasta sculpture made by Levi’s father hangs in the dining room with olive trees and lavender lining the airy outdoor patio.

Squid ink paccheri at Cento

WHERE NOW

FEBRUARY

SPORTS BARS

From top: Lounge area and Dodger Blue margarita at 3rd Base LA; Chicken wings at Brooklyn Avenue Pizza Co.; Pizzette at 40 Love

The Game Plan

Don’t drop the ball on game day. Here are a few of the best spots around town to watch Super Bowl LVI.

40 Love Named after the popular tennis expression, 40 Love is an elevated sports bar inspired by American country clubs with over 25 flat-screen TVs to cover all your favorite sports teams. Sink into one of the plush leather booths and nosh on classic comfort food like buttermilk chicken tenders, crab cake sliders, loaded nachos, and signature dishes like the double cheeseburger and Wagyu hot dogs. Check out the star-studded signed wall and spot celebrity signatures by Post Malone, Shawn Mendes, Jamie Foxx, Sean Payton and more.

Santa Monica Whaler If you’re looking for a nofrills bar for game day, the Santa Monica Whaler is a solid choice. Similar to its sister restaurant, the Venice Whaler, the new downtown Santa Monica location is just a few steps away from the ocean. Expect standard gastropub fare including guacamole and chips, fried chicken tenders, burgers, and the fish tacos—a fan favorite.

Brooklyn Avenue Pizza Co. Root for your favorite team at Brooklyn Avenue Pizza Co. in Boyle Heights. Start with an order of their jumbo chicken wings that come in a variety of fingerlicking flavors: buffalo, flaming hot cheetos, mole, or lemon pepper. But leave room for one (or two) of the wood-fired pizzas like the Meat Lovers or The O.G. topped with pepperoni.

3rd Base LA Over in Hollywood, 3rd Base LA is a modern bar that offers an upgrade to the traditional bar fare with a menu that uses locally sourced ingredients. Pick a few of the signature starters like the lemon artichokes, shishito peppers, or grilled cheese triangles and then make room for some of the carb-loaded dishes like the flatbreads and burgers. Whether you choose to watch the game from a leather booth or grab a seat at the wraparound bar, there are plenty of high-definition TVs to keep you entertained.

33 Taps Silver Lake This local watering hole on the East Side of L.A. is “not your average sports bar.” They offer a rotating selection of 33 (mostly local) beers on tap as well as typical pub grub such as chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, burgers, and nachos. Everything is made from scratch and there’s also a menu for your fourlegged furry friend! How’s that for a Sunday Funday?

WHERE NOW

FEBRUARY

Q+A

A DAY IN LA WITH Sebastian Maniscalco

The L.A. comedian has been selling out arenas and making people LOL for over two decades with no plans to stop. by LEILA NAJAFI

“I CAME OUT here [to L.A.] in 1998 just to make a living doing standup comedy,” said the Chicago native. “I didn’t have a vision board. It kind of just all happened.” Except Sebastian’s remarkable success was anything but overnight. The 48-yearold comedian started his career in L.A. almost two decades ago as a server at the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills and waited on A-list celebrities like Al Pacino and Robert De Niro.

“I grew up watching these guys and next thing you know, I’m doing a scene with Pesci and De Niro the first day of shooting,” says Maniscalco of The Irishman, a Scorsese film in which he played. But Maniscalco’s claim to fame is his role as a stand-up comedian known for his relatable humor and dramatic facial expressions. He’s sold out Madison Square Garden four times, has four Netflix specials, a culinary-focused show on discovery+ called Well Done, and is currently on a nationwide stand-up tour. He’s also shooting an upcoming film he wrote called About My Father, starring Robert De Niro who plays his father in real life. How’s that for a dream come true?

As for L.A., Maniscalco has no plans to leave. “It’s a very dynamic city. L.A. to me is home.”

We asked Sebastian what his go-to spots are around L.A. and here’s what he had to say:

Current neighborhood: Beverly Hills

Favorite neighborhood to hang out in outside of Beverly Hills: Malibu

The one restaurant you never get sick of: Nobu

Favorite place to get pizza: Pizzana

Favorite date night spot: Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air

Where do you like to spend time outdoors? Runyon Canyon

Favorite venue to perform at: The Comedy Store is my comedy gym. That’s where I go and work out all my material. I don’t know what the reason is, but when I go there I have no fear. I feel totally at home. I can say whatever I want to say and it really helps me develop new material quickly.

Most underrated spot in L.A.: It’s not really a spot but it’s Dough Daddy pizza. It’s a guy who’s making pizzas out of his apartment. It’s Detroit-style pizza. He only makes like 25 pies a night and you gotta get a slot on Instagram. Then you have to go down and pick it up. It’s like an adventure.

What does a typical day in L.A. look like for you: It’s a lot of family-time when I’m home. I’m like a homebody so I like to just stay here [at home].

Sebastian is performing at The Forum on March 5. For tickets, visit: sebastianlive.com.

A DAY

in the SOUTH BAY

ENJOY SEASIDE DINING, COTTON CANDY SUNSETS, AND LAIDBACK SURF CULTURE

by LEILA NAJAFI

The stretch of coastline between El Segundo all the way down to San Pedro is known as the beautiful South Bay. Coastal towns like Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach give off a classic California vibe while further inland you’ll find some foodie gems and the all new SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, home to this year’s Super Bowl LVI.

Manhattan Beach Post

Chef David LeFevre is no stranger to the South Bay with several standout restaurants under his belt including Fishing With Dynamite, The Arthur J, and his first solo restaurant in SoCal—Manhattan Beach Post. The rustic chic restaurant features a farm-to-table menu with shareable dishes like the blistering green beans in a sweet and spicy chili sauce, seared scallops in a pistachio puree, and the Nashville-style fried chicken are just a few of the must-haves here. The menu might be seasonal but the one item that will remain is the bacon cheddar biscuits. There’s a reason why diners order a second serving of these buttery beauties to-go. p. 38

2Little French Bakery

When you can’t make it to France, head to Little French Bakery, a family-owned bakery in Redondo Beach that captures the essence of an authentic Parisian boulangerie. A selection of enticing sweet and savory pastries fill the menu. Pick up a freshly baked almond croissant or a traditional ham and cheese baguette and start your morning the French way. p. 38

The Spa at Terranea

For a little R&R, treat yourself to a massage at the 102-acre coastal resort along the bluffs of California’s Palos Verdes Peninsula. Try the CBD massage for deep relaxation or one of the facials like the Botanical Brightening Facial or Gentlemen’s Facial for a tailored treatment that will cleanse, exfoliate, and increase circulation leaving your skin feeling as good as new. 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, 310.265.2740

3Hakata Ikkousha Ramen

Slurp on a piping hot bowl of ramen made with handmade noodles from the no-frills Hakata Ikkousha Ramen in Torrance, also known as the unofficial ramen capital of Southern California. Order the signature Tonkotsu Ramen or the Black Tonkotsu made with black sesame paste and don’t forget a side of crispy fried chicken for the ultimate comfort food on a cold winter night. p. 38

The Point

For a little retail therapy, stop by The Point in El Segundo where you can splurge on everyday brands like lululemon, Madewell, and Bonobos. If you’re up for a sweat sesh you can book a class at SoulCycle or show your skin some love with a facial at Face Haus. When you work up an appetite, you can choose from a selection of fast casual eateries including CAVA, Tocaya, True Food Kitchen, and a local favorite, Little Sister. p. 44

Esperanza Cocina de la Playa

Nestled between an Irish pub and a 24-hour diner, this new Sonoraninspired restaurant brings sultry vibes and a lively atmosphere to the heart of downtown Manhattan Beach. The swanky allwhite interiors resemble a glitzy Los Cabos resort. You’ll likely need a drink after reading the extensive menu but don’t worry you’re in the right place. Choose from one of their fruity margaritas, a spicy michelada, or go straight on the rocks with one of their rare tequila and mezcal offerings. For bites, try the ceviche trio served with plantain chips, the guacamole, and the fried shrimp tacos served on homemade tortillas. p. 38

Tigres Fuego

From the same team behind Baran’s 2239— the 2019 Bib Gourmand restaurant in a tiny strip mall—Tigres Fuego is a homegrown casual ceviche and taco spot along PCH dishing up equally tasty bites best enjoyed on-the-go or at the counter. Order the carne asada or Baja fish tacos and wash it down with a coconut horchata. p. 38

8Polliwog Park

One of the largest parks in the South Bay, Polliwog Park is made of 18-acres of lush greenery with a pond that is home to many migratory birds. There are three gazebos, a playground, and a number of picnic tables and barbecues to spend a Sunday afternoon. Head to the southwest corner of the park and enjoy free admission to the Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden.

9Alpine Village

Stop by this German specialty market and stock up on German sausages and choose from over 200 beers including German and European imports.

The Western Museum of Flight

Aviation enthusiasts will geek out at the Western Museum of Flight at Zamperini Field. Get a close look at the impressive collection of aircrafts on display including the Grumman F-14A “Tomcat” and the Douglas A-4A Skyhawk. The non-profit organization in Torrance is committed to preserving artifacts from Southern California’s aviation history with over 300 models, prototypes, and historic photographs. Visitors also have the opportunity to sit in the cockpit of an “F5 Freedom Fighter” to recreate your own Top Gun photo moment.

From top: Smoked yellowtail at Yamashiro; Garden seating at Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air; Tableside tuna tartare at Fia Steak. Opposite: Engawa sashimi at Providence

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at some of the city’s most romantic restaurants. From dreamy outdoor patios to hillside views, LA provides the perfect backdrop for romance—just don’t forget to make a reservation!

La Boucherie Set high above on the 71st floor of the Intercontinental Los Angeles Downtown, La Boucherie is a modern steakhouse that recently reopened with a new menu. “We have created a very balanced offering of steaks and chops, sourced from ranches that pride themselves on the humane treatment of their cattle, sustainable ranching and innovative systems of raising cattle,” says Daniel Fennessy, Executive Chef at InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown. “This, coupled with prime seafood, vegan options and the French classic enhancements, will give our guests a whole new La Boucherie experience,” he explains. Sleek interiors with marble tabletops pair well with the twinkling lights from the panoramic views of the city—the real show stopper here. Reserve one of the private booths that overlooks the skyscrapers and get cozy while you share an Australian Wagyu tomahawk or the charred Spanish octopus. InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown, 900 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, 213.688.7777

Wolfgang Puck at Hotel

Bel-Air For something upscale, consider Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air. Set in a romantic garden with private alcoves that overlook Swan Lake, the intimate indoor and outdoor dining room is the perfect setting for a special evening. Classic Wolfgang Puck fare is served with live music in the bar lounge on select evenings. Whether you sink into a booth or reserve a table on the lush patio, every seat is perfect for date night. Hotel Bel-Air, 701 Stone Canyon Rd., Los Angeles, 310.909.1644

Conservatory Over in West Hollywood, Conservatory has a massive patio with plenty of heat from the fire pits to keep you warm. The menu uses local ingredients in season as seen in the charred eggplant puree, pumpkin and truffles, and the crispy fried Brussels sprouts. For Valentine’s Day, there will be a special 8-course aphrodisiac menu for $150 per person. 8289 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.654.0020

Fia It’s hard to live in a city like Los Angeles and not crave the outdoors, especially when winter evenings are 60 degrees. Luckily, restaurants like Fia offer a beautiful string-lit patio so you can do just that. The 300-seat indoor and outdoor venue offers a shareable menu that highlights California’s finest produce in season.

Outdoor patio at Conservatory; Australian Wagyu tomahawk at La Boucherie

Fia Steak is the newest addition to the restaurant—an intimate 48-seat steakhouse that focuses primarily on U.S. beef sourced from local farms. 2454 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 424.280.4196

Providence Helmed by chef Michael Cimarusti, Providence is a fine dining seafood establishment that has earned several accolades including a James Beard Award and two Michelin stars. Sustainable, wild-caught seafood is the main focus here featuring uni egg, Italian black truffles, and oysters with caviar which are just some of the decadent dishes you’ll find on the tasting menu. Providence is one of the few white tablecloth restaurants in Los Angeles that has managed to keep diners coming back for over a decade. 5955 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, 323.460.4170

Lucky’s The ambiance at Lucky’s, an upscale steakhouse in the Malibu Country Mart, resembles that of a modern-day supper club. The space takes full advantage of its beach surroundings with plenty of windows to draw in natural light, leather booths, and black-and-white illustrations of jazz musicians adorning the walls. Aside from the standard steak dishes, the menu also features elevated versions of old American favorites like shrimp cocktail, Philly cheesesteak, and matzo ball soup. The restaurant is a few steps away from the ocean but it’s still a classy steakhouse, so you and your date will want to dress the part. 3835 Cross Creek Rd., Suite 18, Malibu, 310.317.0099 Yamashiro Nestled in the Hollywood Hills, Yamashiro which means “Mountain Palace” sits on a hilltop and offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. Set in a 600-year-old Japanese Pagoda with an open-air courtyard and koi pond, the Asian-fusion restaurant serves an array of dishes including miso black cod, coconut shrimp, noodle dishes, and a variety of specialty sushi rolls in a lush garden setting. 1999 N. Sycamore Ave., Hollywood, 323.466.5125