LOS ANGELES APRIL
2020
SPRING FAIRS & FESTS THE SOUNDTRACK OF NEW SUPPER CLUB VERSE THE CITY’S BEST ALL-AGES MUSIC VENUES
In the
Loop BEATBOXER AND LATE LATE SHOW BANDLEADER REGGIE WATTS ON L.A.’S ALTERNATIVE MUSIC SCENE
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APRIL 2020
CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS Hot Dates 4 Where Now 6 Maps 59 30 Things We Love 64 CITY TOURS Beverly Hills 16 Santa Monica 20 West Hollywood 24 Hollywood 28 Downtown 32 Pasadena 36 South Bay 38
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A Bad Suns concert at the Echo
12 A spread of dishes at Bavel
ON THE APRIL
2020
SPRING FAIRS & FESTS THE SOUNDTRACK OF NEW SUPPER CLUB VERSE THE CITY’S BEST ALL-AGES MUSIC VENUES
In the
Loop BEATBOXER AND LATE LATE SHOW BANDLEADER REGGIE WATTS ON L.A.’S ALTERNATIVE MUSIC SCENE
COVER
The Late Late Show bandleader, musician and comedian Reggie Watts. Photo by Robyn Von Swank
THE GUIDE 43 Dining 56 Shopping 50 Entertainment 56 Explore 52 Attractions
FEATURES
8 All Ages Welcome
At some of the city’s coolest concert venues, music lovers of all ages can crowd around the stage, pull up a seat or hang up in a balcony to energize their evenings with melodic sounds from all genres. BY TEENA APELES
12 Mediterranean Mosaic
L.A. boasts some amazing Mediterranean restaurants. From falafel at Dune to hummus at Bavel to mezze at Cleo, let these traditional and innovative takes on the region’s flavors take your taste buds on a trip. BY PAUL FEINSTEIN All event listings included in this issue were confirmed accurate as of press date. Due to current environmental concerns, the editors suggest readers check for schedule changes which may have recently occurred.
C O N N E CT W I T H U S O N L I N E S O CA L P U L S E . CO M
FROM TOP: MICHELLE SHIERS; REBEKAH LEMIRE
LOS ANGELES
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HOT DATES
History & Hip-Hop
APRIL
EVENTS All month Lin-Manuel Miranda’s record-breaking Tonywinning, Grammywinning and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical, Hamilton, is taking over the Hollywood Pantages through fall as part of its national tour. If you haven’t had the chance to see the Broadway phenomenon about immigrant founding father and treasury secretary Alexander Hamilton yet, now’s your chance to hear the show’s groundbreaking soundtrack—which blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap and R&B with historical accuracy—live. p. 51
GREAT THINGS THIS MONTH HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Check out our Weekend Roundup at SoCalPulse.com
April 3-5
The Highland Park teen recently swept the Grammy Awards. See her live as she stops at the Forum for three nights during her Where Do We Go? World Tour. p. 51
MASTERS OF TASTE April 5
Find food from the city’s top chefs and restaurants on the field of the Rose Bowl during this premier culinary event, now in its fifth year. p. 50
LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL DANCE FESTIVAL April 11-26
Presented by Nigel Lythgoe OBE and Debbie Allen, this
16-day dance experience offers performances, films, workshops and master classes across 12 L.A. venues. laidf.org
TCM CLASSIC FILM FESTIVAL
April 16-19 This festival gives new life to silver-screen gems, bringing classic films and the people who made them to iconic Hollywood venues. p. 50
ACURA GRAND PRIX OF LONG BEACH April 17-19
Rev your engines and head to downtown Long Beach to enjoy a weekend of car racing, concerts and family fun. The weekend regularly
draws over 200,000 spectators. p. 50
RENEGADE CRAFT FAIR April 18-19
Find unique goods at this pop-up market at Los Angeles State Historic Park, where over 260 local makers sell their wares. p. 50
EARTH DAY L.A. April 22
Celebrate Mother Earth with free performances, plant tours and giveaways, and green-technology demos at Grand Park, downtown. p. 52
THE ECLECTIC April 25
South Pasadena’s free music festival and arts
crawl fills a dozen of the idyllic town’s blocks with performances by musicians, art, food and handmade and vintage goods from artisans. theeclectic.rocks
TASTE OF THE EASTSIDE April 26
Hear tunes and taste dishes from trendy Eastside eateries at this food fair, held at Los Angeles River Center & Gardens. p. 50
ROOFTOP CINEMA CLUB All month
The popular alfresco film series is back for its sixth season in L.A., screening classic and contemporary flicks on rooftops in Hollywood and DTLA. p. 50
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General admission is always free Learn more about free exhibitions, in-depth installations, and events celebrating The Broad’s th 5 Anniversary Year at thebroad.org.
Jeff Koons, Balloon Dog (Blue), 1994–2000. The Broad Art Foundation. © Jeff Koons
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WHERE NOW APRIL
MUSIC
Well-Versed On an unassuming stretch of Toluca Lake, you’ll find Verse. This is the Valley’s new supper club, where music and food share the spotlight. It’s the brainchild of hospitality veteran Rob Ciancimino, chef Paul Shoemaker (Michelin-starred Providence, Bastide) and eight-time Grammywinning sound mixer Manny Marroquin, who joined his expertise with that of Meyer Sound to transform the dining room itself into an instrument. (Verse is the only SoCal restaurant to use the stateof-the-art Meyer Sound Constellation system.) There’s an impressive lineup of live music, and between sets, the soundtrack is made up of playlists curated by music
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industry visionaries—which mesh nicely with Shoemaker’s playful-yet-sophisticated dishes. Amberjack crudo and the Lollipops x Four—skewers with squid and Soria chorizo—are delicious dinnertime starters, while housemade pasta dishes like the Oaxacan braised lamb pappardelle and the Maine lobster Bolognese are standout entrées. Pair with a craft cocktail—try the Pomegranate & Burnt Rose or the theatrical Smokin Old Fashioned—or a selection from sommelier Matthew Kaner’s wine list. The live music brunch is new—and a pitch-perfect addition to the area’s dining scene. 4212 Lankershim Blvd., L.A., 818.747.2135, verse.la
3/13/20 12:49 PM
IN THE LOOP Exploring L.A.’s underground scene with music and mischief maker Reggie Watts by Vicki Arkoff
FROM TOP: ELLA DEGEA/CBS © 2019 CBS BROADCASTING, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED; DANA BOULOS. OPPOSITE: JAKOB LAYMAN
KNOWN FOR HIS FREE-FORM WORK AS THE BANDLEADER for The Late Late Show With James Corden and the IFC show Comedy Bang! Bang!, Reggie Watts is a mind-blowing, postpost-modern digital musician, beatboxer and absurdist comedian, joyfully zigzagging between projects throughout L.A.’s underground music and improv scenes. Watts’ only tools are his nimble voice, a mic, a keyboard and a looping machine. One night he’s performing post-punk and metal with his band Karen, and the next he’s riffing onstage with L.A.’s coolest absurdist comics or recording techno-dance sessions with Wajatta, his electronic duo with John Tejada. Their second album, Don’t Let Get You Down, just dropped, as did Watts App, Reggie’s own digital network. Watts App’s first series is Underground Pop Show, showcasing L.A.’s coolest up-and-coming bands. You moved to Los Angeles from New York when you got the Late Late Show gig. What’s your take on L.A.? I’m very fortunate to live in L.A. There’s a community of artists here creating post-punk, industrial and darker rock ’n’ roll that feels like it’s drawing from a pure source. L.A. is an exciting place right now. It’s very inspirational to me. I feel I can accomplish a lot here.
bunch of Australians. Another great place is Honey Hi, run by two amazing, enterprising women serving healthy food and really good coffee. Also run by knowledgeable women, California Caregivers Alliance is an incredible dispensary. Some dispensaries are so Apple Store clinical that they just make you feel sad. CCA has a cool vibe and makes you feel welcome, like you belong.
Which L.A. neighborhood makes you feel most at home? I’m renting a midcentury-modern house in Silver Lake. It’s pretty chill, filled with what I love: old, organic, beautifully designed things mixed with high-tech things that are kind of hidden. Sometimes I find things at the Silver Lake swap meet with my friend Melissa Scaduto.
Where are your favorite local venues to play and hear alternative music? I go to Non Plus Ultra 3 quite
Favorite Eastside hangouts? I go to this coffee shop called Roo, run by an awesome
Supervinyl
a bit, and The Echo and Echoplex and HVW8 Gallery. I’m a child of the ’80s, so I’m always looking for that spirit of danger that came from counterculture punk rock music of that era. It’s been my dream to find out where that spirit’s still residing. Where do you hunt for vinyl and cassettes? Cosmic Vinyl has a really good selection. And Supervinyl is a gorgeous shop that plays pristine vinyl on a $10,000 1970s McIntosh record player with a $5,000 cartridge. It’s a place that totally respects music and the purity of vinyl. There’s another vinyl place, Jacknife, that also has a ton of cassette tapes. I have a Walkman and love to just throw in a tape as a memory thing. I like to have all the mediums. Where do you go to catch L.A.’s best absurdist comedians? The Satellite Lounge and The Virgil. There’s a huge scene of
incredibly insightful, absurdly creative human beings in L.A. Johnny Pemberton, Whitmer Thomas, Hannah Einbinder, John Early, Kate Berlant and Brent Weinbach—their minds are insane. Go see “Hot Tub” with Kurt Braunohler and Kristen Schaal, and any of the shows run by DJ Douggpound or Neil Hamburger. And at UCB there’s a great group of young women, Titty Committee, doing sketch character stuff. How do you keep things fresh every night for The Late Late Show? I’m only there for a moment, and I don’t plan anything. It’s not out of laziness; it’s to keep myself excited about what’s going on in the show. I don’t want to know what the monologue is, or what the jokes are or who the guests are. Everything I do is improvised. I can’t really do it any other way. Life isn’t as fun if you get bogged down with the details.
DETAILS California Caregivers Alliance 2815 W. Sunset Blvd., Suite 201, L.A., 213.353.0100 / Cosmic Vinyl 2149 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 213.568.3113, cosmicvinyl.com / The Echo + Echoplex 1822 Sunset Blvd.; 1154 Glendale Blvd., L.A., 213.413.8200, spacelandpresents.com / Honey Hi 1620 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 213.221.7810, honeyhi.co / HVW8 Art + Design Gallery 661 N. Spaulding Ave., L.A., 323.655.4898, hvw8.com / Jacknife Records & Tapes 3149 Glendale Blvd., L.A., 323.661.4533, jackniferecordsandtapes.com / Non Plus Ultra 3 654 Gibbons St., L.A., nonplusultra.us / Roo Coffee 1523 Griffith Park Blvd., L.A., roouniverse.com / The Satellite 1717 Silver Lake Blvd., L.A., thesatellitela.com / Silverlake Flea 2007 Reservoir St., L.A., 323.467.0623, silverlakeshop.com / Supervinyl 900 N. Sycamore Ave., L.A., 323.688.2222, supervinylusa.com / UCB 5919 Franklin Ave., L.A.; 5419 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.908.8702, ucbtheatre.com / The Virgil 4519 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 323.660.4540, thevirgil.com
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All Ages Welcome WHERE TO SEE LIVE MUSIC THIS MONTH
BY TEENA APELES
Between the legendary clubs on the Sunset Strip, historic theaters along Wilshire Boulevard and the recent surge of alternative venues downtown, Los Angeles has always been an incredible destination for music fans of all genres. We’re taking you on a tour of some of the top venues in our sprawling city where concertgoers of all ages can take in numerous acts each day of the week. You’ll find something for everyone’s ears—whether you’re a headbanger or head swayer, of drinking age or a decade-plus from it.
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From left: The Echo; Yungblud playing to a sold-out crowd at the Echo
FROM LEFT: MICHELLE SHIERS; CARL POCKET
Troubadour Since 1957, the Troubadour has hosted the likes of Johnny Cash, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Guns N’ Roses, Depeche Mode, Prince and even BTS. And those notable artists are just a small sampling of the breadth of talent that has graced its modest-sized stage. With a capacity of 500 people, the club offers audiences a fairly intimate setting to see live acts—one of the reasons why Rolling Stone named it one of the best rock clubs—with standing room only on the main floor and additional viewing from the balcony. You can practically see the sweat coming off the performers. Locals will tell you the Troubadour’s continued popularity is also due to the fact that the staff generally treats fans of all ages, sizes and abilities—there is a dedicated area by the stage just for those in wheelchairs— like rock stars. Some acts to catch this month: the utterly danceable sounds of L.A. pop duo Fabriq on April 3; Irish indie rock band the Coronas on April 21; and Mexican Dominican American teenager Ambar Lucid of New Jersey (whose soulful voice captured our ears instantly) on
April 30. 9081 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.276.1158, troubadour.com
Lodge Room Located on the second floor of the Highland Park Masonic Temple, which was built in 1922, the stunning Lodge Room attracts some of the best local and national indie bands. We appreciate its high ceilings, historic and updated fixtures (love the vintage chandeliers!), spacious setting for standing fans, and the far left wall area with a raised step for convenient seating between sets. The sound system is exceptional, as is the lighting design, making every show a memorable one. Big plus: The 500-capacity Lodge Room has a beautifully designed restaurant and bar on the same floor, Checker Hall, which offers discounts to ticket holders. And its Mediterranean food is so good. You’re in for quite an evening if you hit both. Check out Boston indie band Vundabar on April 2 and Grammy-nominated Alabama sister duo the Secret Sisters on April 28. 104 N. Ave. 56, Second Floor, L.A., 323.509.2861, lodgeroomhlp.com
McCabe’s Guitar Shop The long-treasured McCabe’s in Santa Monica—60-plus years and counting—is more than an amazing stop for browsing and purchasing an array of new and collectible stringed instruments. (Though you definitely can’t find a better place in the city for expert, thoughtful advice on your next guitar purchase!) If you’re looking for a no-frills but truly classic L.A. music experience, McCabe’s is a must on your concert itinerary. Its venue only fits 150 people, which means tickets often go fast, but to get this close to your favorite musician is priceless. Jane Siberry, Ricky Skaggs, Mojave 3, the Minutemen, Jeff Buckley, They Might Be Giants, Emmylou Harris and Arlo Guthrie have come through over the years—an indicator of the shop’s appeal to musicians of all genres. Consider taking in an instrumental set on April 4 with notable guitarists Aki Miyoshi, Andrew York and Ryan Ayers, or the laid-back rock stylings of Dirk Hamilton, whom the Los Angeles Times has called “one of rock’s best-kept secrets,” on April 19. 3101 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.828.4497, mccabes.com WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 9
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Teragram Ballroom
El Rey Theatre
Multiple bars, a balcony, a 30-foot stage and space for 600 music fans are among the attractive features of downtown’s Teragram Ballroom, which opened in 2015 in a centuryold building that used to be a silent-movie theater. In a short time, it has emerged as one of the places to take in indie and alternative bands because of the energy of the crowds, dizzying light displays and state-of-the-art sound system. It’s all thanks to veteran club owner Michael Swier (along with his brother, Brian, an architect), the man behind New York’s Mercury Lounge and the Bowery Ballroom. The Teragram is named in honor of his wife, Margaret, who passed away from cancer, so you can trust that every detail of the space was given the utmost care. Like the Lodge Room, the Teragram also has an eatery and bar, Cafe Teragram, which offers bar-food basics: burgers, street tacos, quesadillas, fries and mozzarella sticks. As for the acts we’re looking forward to this month, critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Meshell Ndegeocello takes the stage on April 7, and the self-described “psychedelic-soul band” Monophonics, from the Bay Area, bring their layered sound to Highland Park on April 11. 1234 W. 7th St., L.A., 213.689.9019, teragramballroom.com
Originally opened on Miracle Mile in 1936 as a cinema, the El Rey has hosted some unforgettable shows since it became a live music venue in 1994. Its well-preserved, breathtaking art deco architecture and colorful neon marquee—protected by its designation as an L.A. Historic-Cultural Monument—beckon people from far and wide, as the theater instantly transports visitors to the Los Angeles of yesteryear. Couple this with a solid sound system and mostly respectful concertgoers (in our experience), and it’s no wonder L.A.-based headliners like Lana Del Rey and Best Coast have chosen to grace the El Rey stage in the past. These days, the massive chandeliers continue to dazzle above the regal ballroom floor (with an additional viewing area in the balcony), and the lineup boasts a variety of musical acts and performers: Former Fifth Harmony member Ally Brooke will fill the 770-capacity theater with her screaming teen fan base on April 7, followed by more poppy dance music from English artist Mika on April 15 and the infectious dance hall sounds of Nigerian singer-songwriter Patoranking on April 22. Don’t forget to get pictures under the marquee when you visit! 5515 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.936.6400, theelrey.com
The Sunset Strip wouldn’t be the same without the Roxy, a rock club where so many of us L.A. music fans have watched up-and-coming bands who went on to sell out stadiums, where we passed the time making friends in line as we waited to get into a sold-out show. No one could say the Roxy, which opened in 1973, is the prettiest of venues—although nothing in L.A. screams “rock” quite like its iconic neon lettering lighting up the boulevard—but it is one of the most famous, thanks to its history and headliners: Neil Young, Frank Zappa, Devo, Linda Ronstadt, Bruce Springsteen, the Ramones … and the list goes on and on. People go to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with 500 other hardcore music fans, sing along and jump up and down like there’s no tomorrow, then swarm the merch table in the claustrophobic entrance to take a little piece of the night home with them. This month, Toronto- and Bay Area-raised Odie brings his mellow grooves to the stage on April 7, and Filipino-British teen sensation Beabadoobee arrives with her lush melodies on April 15. 9009 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.9457, theroxy.com
The Echo With a max capacity of 350 guests, Echo Park venue the Echo is among the smaller, more intimate spots on our music tour, but it often has the loudest audiences, thanks to the quality of bands it books that run the gamut—all of which have intense fan bases. (Past headliners include Beck, the Decemberists, Jenny Lewis, Pixies, Bad Religion and LCD Soundsystem.) It’s standing-room-only around the stage, but there’s also bench seating along the perimeter. Join the sea of people to really immerse yourself in the sounds of upcoming acts Georgia, a London-based synth pop artist, on April 7, followed by L.A. all-girl indie pop band Girl Friday, whose guitar riffs are as fun as it gets, on April 21. Thankfully, the Echo also has an outdoor patio, which serves as a welcome getaway when you’ve reached your limit in crowd noise and sweat. (Just around the corner is the Echoplex, a slightly larger sister venue where the Rolling Stones once played a surprise show.) 1822 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 213.413.8200, spacelandpresents. com/events/the-echo
© EMILY SEVIN PHOTO. OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: JULIAN BROAD; KYLIE SHAFFER; COURTESY TROUBADOUR; CHARLIE GROSS; TRAVELPIX / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO; COURTESY LODGE ROOM
The Roxy Theatre
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© EMILY SEVIN PHOTO. OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: JULIAN BROAD; KYLIE SHAFFER; COURTESY TROUBADOUR; CHARLIE GROSS; TRAVELPIX / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO; COURTESY LODGE ROOM
Clockwise from top left: Mika; Girl Friday; the Troubadour; Meshell Ndegeocello; the Roxy Theatre; a show at the Lodge Room. Opposite: Monophonics
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Mediterranean
MOSAIC
Between Los Angeles’ dry coastal climate, lapping blue waves, unbeatable marine life and cavalcade of locally sourced products, it’s not all that surprising that so many Mediterranean chefs call the city their second home. BY PAUL FEINSTEIN
LOS ANGELES is one of the great cultural hubs of the world, and nowhere does this shine more than in its culinary eclecticism. No matter which section of the city you’re in, you’re bound to find dining gems that traverse the world in exceptional ways. One of the cuisines that Los Angeles truly excels in is Mediterranean. Wafting around every corner are the sizzling smells of tantalizing tagines, fluffy, hummus-topped falafel, crunchy croquetas and dazzling dolmas. While you can’t always find the time to travel to the mystical Mediterranean Sea, you can always be transported by L.A.’s chefs who are doing yeoman’s work to bring you the best across the city.
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FROM TOP: DAVID BENHAIM / READY GO PICTURES; ALINA TYULYU. OPPOSITE: JAKOB LAYMAN
TAGINE Chef Ben Benameur’s ode to Morocco is a Beverly Hills staple whose menu flourishes with argan-oil-dripping goodies like his vegan Berber couscous, honey lamb tagine and his mother’s recipe hummus with Berber bread. Tasting menus are under $100 and give you the full breadth of Moroccan favorites. 132 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.360.7535, taginebeverlyhills.com MOUN OF TUNIS Traveling to Tunisia by way of Sunset Boulevard is Moun of Tunis, a staple of North African cuisine in L.A. since 1977. Not only can you get relatively cheap set menus that cover both Tunisian and Moroccan cuisine for under $40, you get belly dancers putting on performances in the Moroccan-bedecked dining room. 7445 ½ Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.874.3333, mounoftunis.la BAVEL Following up their highly successful Italian restaurant, Bestia, chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis get back to their Mediterranean roots with a menu that travels from Israel and Turkey to Egypt and Morocco. Easily one of the best meals in town, the menu is filled with inventive takes on classics like baba ghanoush, crispy, melt-in-yourmouth malawach and Te Mana lamb chops. They might also have the best hummus in the city. 500 Mateo St., downtown, 213.232.4966, baveldtla.com DUNE Dune is a falafel lover’s dream spot and worth the pilgrimage to Atwater Village or DTLA to indulge in. Its crispy/fluffy falafel balls ooze with hummus and tahini inside house flatbreads filled with pickled turnips
and radishes. But don’t sleep on the rest of the menu, with treats that include a fried chicken shawarma sandwich and tabouleh salad. Pound for pound, this is the best falafel in L.A. 3143 Glendale Blvd., L.A., 323.486.7073; 199 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.628.3586, dunekitchen.com MH ZH This Israeli/Mediterranean joint has no website (it is on Instagram—barely), no phone number and is kind of hard to find, but as its name implies (Mh Zh means “what’s that?” in Hebrew), the mystery is exactly what it’s going for. This small Silver Lake spot is more sidewalk café than full-fledged restaurant and serves some of the most mouthwatering Mediterranean in the city. Make a point of getting the bread with just about anything, the Lamb Ragoooo and the grilled beets. Yum. 3536 Sunset Blvd., L.A. MOMED Dubbing itself modern Mediterranean (Mo-Med, get it?), this light and airy joint pays homage to eastern Mediterranean and North African fare. The menu is littered with new takes on the region—including chicken skewers lathered in sumac vinaigrette, shakshuka served with toasted sourdough, and duck shawarma wraps filled with pickled onions and garlic aioli. Momed also leans into L.A.’s progressive dining crowd with gluten-free bowls. 3245 Casitas Ave., L.A., 323.522.3488, atmomed.com CLEO Cleo is your pre-nightlife, dark and sexy date spot with Instagram-worthy mezze and loads of original Mediterranean dishes. Highlights of the menu include the skillet Hal-
loumi with brandy and honey, the harissa tuna tartare and the Impossible meatball tagine for a vegan-friendly option. Playing on its nightlife vibes, Cleo’s 3rd Street location also has a boozy brunch with bottomless drinks and live music. The Orlando Hotel, 8384 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.579.1600; h Club Los Angeles, 1717 Vine St., Hollywood, 323.962.1711, sbe.com/ restaurants/brands/cleo MIZLALA For more Israeli goodies, Mizlala serves up all the tomato and cucumber and chickpeas you could ever want. There are Israeli salads with Persian cucumbers, fried artichoke hummus with chimichurri, kefta lamb kebabs with sumac, and laffa wraps with any filling imaginable. That’s before you get to the shared plates of falafel, latkes and eggplant moussaka. If you want a tour of Israel and the massive lunches you’ll find around that country, you can’t go wrong with
From top: Baklava at Dune; rooftop restaurant Calabra. Opposite: The Hummus & Falafel Plate at Dune
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Mizlala. 4515 Sepulveda Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818.783.6698; 5400 W. Adams Blvd., L.A., 323.433.7137 KISMET Clean, minimalist and pristine, Kismet is a progressive Mediterranean restaurant that fuses its eastern roots with California love. With locally sourced products and a stellar wine list, Kismet helps you rethink all the things Mediterranean food can be. The menu is brimming with new spins on old classics. Middle Eastern and North African spices garnish most of the dishes; you’ll find gems like spiced carrots with chickpeas, marinated feta with roasted squash and honey, and harissa cauliflower toast with labneh and pickled shallots. If you come for breakfast, the flaky bread malawach is a must. 4648 Hollywood Blvd., L.A., 323.409.0404, kismet.family/kismetabout OTOÑO Yes, Spanish cuisine is Mediterranean, and Otoño is the best that L.A. has to offer. Part of the exploding Highland Park food scene, Otoño dazzles guests with Spanish favorites like pan con tomate, croqueta de jamon and Negra paella with squid ink and scallops. But this tucked-away spot also gets creative by infusing local ingredients to create entirely new Spanish taste profiles. Other must-orders include the boquerones y mantequilla with white anchovy and roasted radish, but also the pulpo a la brasa, which is braised Spanish octopus that cuts like butter. 5715 N. Figueroa St., L.A., 323.474.6624, otonorestaurant.com HAYAT’S KITCHEN Lebanese-food lovers and in-the-know diners flock to Hayat’s Kitchen in the Valley for its authentic minced bites of kibbeh; the cooked lentils and rice of mujadara; and baklava with walnuts for dessert. A very laid-back atmosphere pervades the whole experience that is only one-upped
with the option to smoke flavored tobacco from a hookah outside. It’s as close as you’ll get to Beirut while staying in the Valley. 11009 Burbank Blvd., Unit #117, North Hollywood, 818.761.4656, hayats.kitchen CAFÉ ISTANBUL As you make your way around the Mediterranean, a stop in Turkey is always a must. Café Istanbul provides in spades, as its southern Turkish heritage brings about spicy kebabs, boreks filled with cheese and the ultimate crunch, and manti dumplings stuffed to the brim with ground beef and topped with mint-infused yogurt. Turkishfood fans will find every classic they’ve come to love all the way down to the carbonated Uludag Gazoz soft drinks and the strongest Turkish coffee in the city. Nicer than most Mediterranean joints on this list, you’ll find white tablecloths and an upscale atmosphere. 326 S. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.553.4545, cafeistanbul90212.com SANTUARI The most unexpected thing about Santuari might just be its location; this pan-Mediterranean restaurant sits atop a private tennis club where you can eat roasted beets while local tennis pros whack balls at each other. The noise and smell of tennis ball felt aside, the restaurant takes its guests on a long journey around the Mediterranean
FROM TOP: ADAM AMENGUAL; COURTESY MIZLALA
From top: The dining room at Bavel; a spread of dishes at Mizlala
coast, with odes to Italy with pastas, Greece with grilled lamb chops and yogurt, Libya with roasted carrots with chermoula, and the Middle East with pumpkin hummus with grilled za’atar flatbreads. Though the menu may lack focus, the food is all top-notch, and you can’t really go wrong, no matter what country you feel like exploring for the night. 6711 Forest Lawn Drive, L.A., 323.902.9700, santuarirestaurant.com CALABRA One of the newest additions to L.A.’s Mediterranean scene sits above the equally new Proper Hotel in Santa Monica. With million-dollar views of the Pacific Ocean, guests can pretend a Mediterranean breeze is pouring through as they sit under the stars. Sumptuous mezze plates filled with charred laffa bread and hummus, labneh, feta and baba ghanoush dips are brought to the low-top tables. Gyros are super nice here, and you have choices of filling that include both chicken and branzino for a Cali/ Med hybrid. If you stay later into the night, you’ll be treated to DJ sessions that swell through the air with lapping waves serving as the never-ending beat. 700 Wilshire Blvd. (entrance on 7th Street), Santa Monica, 310.620.9990, properhotel.com/hotels/ santa-monica/eat-drink/calabra AVRA For lovers of Greek salads and saganaki, there’s Avra in Beverly Hills, a swanky and stylish ode to Greece with all the trimmings. A giant menu is stuffed with seafood that ranges from grilled octopus and Chilean sea bass souvlaki to fagri (white snapper) and lavraki (flaky white fish). Mixing up countries and styles, Avra also offers an array of sashimi along with lamb chops and filet mignon (it is Beverly Hills, after all). Bring your wallet, as Avra’s not cheap, but you will leave full. 233 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.734.0841, theavragroup.com/avrabeverlyhills OLIVETTA A brand-new addition to the bustling dining world of West Hollywood, Olivetta calls itself a coastal European restaurant, which means there’s a wide range of Mediterranean options on offer. The stylish spot ventures into Italy, Spain and France with bucatini pastas, serrano ham and Dover sole meunière. An impressive wine program dabbles in French syrahs, Italian Chiantis and even a Cab Franc from New York. And while the restaurant’s food leans toward Western Europe, the decor has heavy North African vibes and Turkish touches. 9010 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 310.307.3932, olivetta.la
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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN
Beverly Hills BEVERLY HILLS LOOMS LARGE IN POP CULTURE AS A POSH LOCALE HOME TO THE WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS ZIP CODE.
The launch of Beverly Hills’ glamorous reputation dates to the early 20th century, when the opening of the Beverly Hills Hotel ushered in a frenzy of movie-star mansion-building in the hills north of Sunset Boulevard. Today, the population of some 35,000 is more socioeconomically diverse than its depiction on TV and in movies might suggest. Nonetheless, the triumvirate of Beverly Hills, Holmby Hills and Bel-Air still attracts famous and fabulously wealthy residents. Hop on the Beverly Hills Trolley Tour, or book with Starline Tours to see notable homes in the area, along with other local landmarks packed into the city’s 5 square miles. Among the more storied and oft-filmed estates nestled in the hills is the 19th-century English Revival-style Greystone Mansion, which has appeared in The Big Lebowski and Gilmore Girls. Its 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 Canon Drive. MCM Worldwide, Celine and Balenciaga recently debuted new or renovated flagships on Rodeo, reminding shoppers that 90210 is still the most prestigious ZIP code in the States. Ascend the Italian-esque side street to fineart destination Galerie Michael and Tiffany & Co., perched atop Two Rodeo. Pause for the quintessential Beverly Hills snapshot before continuing on to the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons 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 Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, which boasts dining concepts by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and beside it, the Beverly Hilton hotel, which rolls out thousands of square feet of red carpet annually to host the Golden Globe Awards.
THE INDUSTRY + THE ARTS Beverly Hills isn’t all shopping sprees and gated estates: Talent agencies William Morris Endeavor and United Talent Agency are just two of the entertainment
businesses based here. Rub shoulders with the powerlunchers at E. Baldi, La Scala or Wolfgang Puck’s legendary Spago on Canon Drive. 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. Even more cultural programming can be found at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, which transformed the historic Beverly Hills Post Office into an entertainment destination.
CENTURY CITY GREAT FIND
A-List Aesthetician >Get the star treatment at celebrity facialist Shani Darden’s new Beverly Hills studio. “My facials incorporate a light chemical peel, extractions if needed, oxygen therapy, microcurrent, LED light therapy, as well as a few other things,” says Darden, who uses products from her eponymous line during custom services. Address supplied upon appointment, contact booking@shanidarden.com, shanidarden.com
Heading west from Beverly Hills on Santa Monica Boulevard, you enter the 0.3-square-mile modern acropolis of Century City. ICM Partners and Creative Artists Agency are located here, as are the Fox Studios lot and countless legal, financial, entertainment and hospitality firms. But those outside the biz
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: EDWIN SANTIAGO (2); COURTESY WALLIS ANNENBERG CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS. BOTTOM LEFT: MICHAEL CLIFFORD; OPPOSITE FAR RIGHT: COURTESY TIFFANY & CO.
THE MANSIONS
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Shopping on Canon Drive in Beverly Hills; House of Bijan on Rodeo Drive; the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts
INSIDER TIPS
Jewel Tones Head to Beverly Hills’ fine jewelry stores for something sparkly.
Tiffany & Co.
Beverly Hills Jewelers 259 S. Beverly Drive 310.888.7725
Cartier 370 N. Rodeo Drive 323.714.0670
David Yurman 371 N. Rodeo Drive 310.888.8618
Harry Winston 310 N. Rodeo Drive 310.271.8554
Jason of Beverly Hills Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel 9500 Wilshire Blvd. 310.385.3970
Mizrahi Diamonds 9615 Brighton Way 310.273.8174
Peter Marco 252 N. Rodeo Drive 310.278.5353
Tiffany & Co. 210 N. Rodeo Drive 310.273.8880
Van Cleef & Arpels 300 N. Rodeo Drive 310.276.1161 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 17
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New in Town P.F. Candle Co.
The L.A.-based home fragrance brand is booming, opening a second brick-and-mortar shop on the Westside. 6144 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 424.298.8416
Pop’s Bagels
This pop-up known for its fresh, hot bagels topped with homemade cream cheese has a new semi-permanent space at Platform. 8850 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 323.903.7481
Zensai
Platform in Culver City
won’t be excluded. Past Avenue of the Stars, you hit the upscale Westfield Century City shopping center, which unveiled dozens of new boutiques and eateries after a dramatic redevelopment in 2017. Nearby on Constellation Boulevard, epicures are drawn to Tom Colicchio’s Craft and Hinoki & the Bird, the latter of which is in the 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 northwest of Century City is the University of California, Los Angeles, one of the top public universities in the country. Visitors are welcome at several university attractions, including the Fowler Museum at UCLA and the outdoor Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden on
the north campus, the planetarium on the south campus and the 7.5-acre Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Gardens. The free Hammer Museum is nearby and houses impressionist paintings and cutting-edge contemporary exhibitions. Paid parking is available in UCLA lots and structures throughout the 419-acre campus.
WESTWOOD VILLAGE Just south of the campus, the pedestrian-friendly Westwood Village features independent shops and cafés among its Mediterranean Revival and art deco buildings, as well as two landmark movie theaters at Broxton and Weyburn avenues: the 1936 marquee-wrapped Bruin theater and the Fox theater across the street. Built circa 1931, the Fox is a favorite for movie premieres and thus is prime star-spotting territory. Another don’t-miss venue
is the award-winning Geffen Playhouse, located on Le Conte Avenue in one of the oldest buildings in Westwood.
CULVER CITY Covering 5 square miles southeast of Westwood, Culver City boasts a thriving downtown with trendy bars and restaurants. The Kirk Douglas Theatre and the Ivy Substation, home to the Actors’ Gang, bookend the downtown area and stage live productions throughout the year. As you travel east on Washington Boulevard, don’t miss the Helms Bakery complex, which contains a dozen high-end furniture showrooms. Moving along Washington, the scene-y Arts District has more than 20 art galleries and exhibition spaces clustered along Washington and La Cienega boulevards. Near the intersection of Washington and National boulevards is the ultra-hip
Platform lifestyle complex, plus a stop on the Expo Line, a Metro light rail that, thanks to a recent expansion, connects downtown L.A. and Santa Monica. Hollywood gets all the attention, but it’s Culver City whose city seal proclaims it “The Heart of Screenland.” In 1915, Ince/ Triangle Studios opened on Washington; in 1924, the site became Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios. Classics including Singin’ in the Rain and The Wizard of Oz would eventually be filmed on its movie lots. (News reports of the time indicate that the “Munchkins” partied hard during their stay at the Culver Hotel.) Today, Culver City’s screen culture is still going strong, and the site is home to Sony Pictures Studios, where such hits as Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! are taped. Experience Culver City’s screen heritage by taking the Sony Pictures Studio Tour.
> FOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE LISTINGS IN THE WHERE GUIDE ON PAGE 42. FOR A NEIGHBORHOOD MAP OF BEVERLY HILLS, SEE PAGE 60.
KATIE GIBBS
The L.A.-based, South Korea-designed brand brings streetwear to Beverly Hills with its new gallery-like flagship. 417 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.734.7585
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BAG THE BEST IN FASHION ANTHROPOLOGIE | BLOOMINGDALE’S | COS MICHAEL KORS | SANDRO | ZARA PLUS OVER 200 STORES, INCLUDING 60 EATERIES Visit our website for a full directory.
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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN
Santa Monica THE COASTAL CITY’S BUSTLING DOWNTOWN, BEACH AND PIER ATTRACT MILLIONS OF VISITORS PER YEAR.
Third Street Promenade, three pedestrian-only blocks on 3rd Street between Broadway and Wilshire Boulevard, perpetually teems with people. Visitors can hit dozens of boutiques, watch movies at two cinemas and gawk at the myriad street artists. If they don’t refuel at the many eateries along the Promenade, visitors can venture to the surrounding blocks to the Independence or the Misfit and enjoy drinks at the Bungalow or the many pubs, such as Ye Olde King’s Head, that hint at Santa Monica’s large population of British expats. Anchoring the promenade at Broadway is Santa Monica Place, a beautiful open-air shopping center with Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, 80 boutiques, ArcLight Cinemas and the toplevel Dining Deck. Steps away is the new western terminus of the Metro Expo Line, which connects Santa Monica by light rail to downtown Los Angeles. Santa Monica Pier, built in
1909, is at the end of Colorado Avenue and features Pacific Park, a mini amusement park with food stands and rides, including a solar-powered, LED-lit Ferris wheel.
MAIN STREET + MONTANA AVENUE Compared with the hustle and bustle of Third Street Promenade, Montana Avenue is downright tranquil. Between 6th and 17th streets are plenty of fashionable boutiques and beauty destinations, including Moondance, Clare V. and Malin+Goetz. Father’s Office is known for its burgers, and Sweet Lady Jane is famous for its cakes. Just minutes south of downtown Santa Monica, Main Street exudes a beachy, upscale vibe. The long stretch between Pico Boulevard and Rose Avenue contains a number of galleries, pubs, coffeehouses and restaurants, plus shops such as Lost & Found and Planet Blue. The California Heritage Museum is in a transplanted Victorian-era
home, as is the aptly named Victorian, adjacent to the museum, which features a cool downstairs speakeasy, Basement Tavern.
now a stop on the Expo Line— has emerged as a hub for L.A.’s creative community. It’s home to about 30 galleries and a café.
THE ARTS
MALIBU
Visitors can take in plays at Main Street’s Edgemar Center for the Arts, housed in a structure designed by Frank Gehry. An even wider variety of entertainment is at the Broad Stage, Santa Monica College’s 499-seat performing-arts, film, dance and theater venue. On Michigan Avenue, the Bergamot Station arts center—
A few miles north of Santa Monica on Pacific Coast Highway is Malibu. Formerly known as Rancho Malibu, Malibu’s land was once so coveted that May K. Rindge, who took ownership of it in 1905 after the death of her scion husband, used armed guards to defend it from trespassers. In the 1920s, Rindge’s hefty legal bills, racked up from fighting developers, forced her to invite stars to live in Malibu Colony, and the legacy of Malibu as celebrityhome central continues today. Many of Malibu’s best destinations are visible from PCH, including renowned restaurants with ocean views, from the casual (Malibu Seafood) to the upscale (Nobu Malibu). Adjacent to the Malibu Lagoon and
GREAT FIND
Creature Comforts >For cozy yet luxurious home textiles and fashion, head to Alicia Adams Alpaca, a family-owned and -run lifestyle brand whose West Coast flagship is located at Trancas Country Market. All of the pieces are made with fair-trade alpaca wool sourced from a herd of over 200 Suri alpacas at Adams’ family farm in New York’s Hudson Valley. 30745 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.457.7944, aliciaadamsalpaca.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: NATALIA MACHEDA/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO; LISA CORSON; DALE BERMAN. BOTTOM LEFT: TOM MOORE; OPPOSITE FAR RIGHT: COURTESY SHUTTERS ON THE BEACH
THIRD STREET + THE PIER
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Pacific Park at the Santa Monica Pier; the Italian-esque Venice Canal Historic District; open-air shopping center Santa Monica Place
INSIDER TIPS
Spa Day Relax and recharge at these luxurious Santa Monica spas.
ONE Spa
Alchemie Spa 2021 Main St., Suite B 310.310.8880
Burke Williams 1358 4th St., 310.587.3366
Exhale Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, 101 Wilshire Blvd., 310.319.3193
ONE Spa Shutters on the Beach 1 Pico Blvd., 310.587.1712
Petite Spa 723 Broadway 310.393.3105
Raven Spa 208 Pier Ave. 310.399.4747
Sea Wellness Spa Hotel Casa del Mar 1910 Ocean Way 310.581.7767
Tikkun Holistic Spa 1460 4th St. 310.319.1111
Willow Spa 3127 Santa Monica Blvd. 310.277.8554 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 21
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New Newin Town
In Town
Citrin & Mélisse
Josiah Citrin’s finedining destination, Mélisse, is back in the spotlight, joined by welcoming à la carte restaurant Citrin. 1104 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.395.0881
S Bar
This new mixologyfocused lounge concept is serving up innovative cocktails next to Katsuya in Brentwood. 11777 San Vicente Blvd., L.A., 310.554.6550
Wittmore
Shop cool clothing, accessories and home goods at the modern menswear favorite’s third location, at Malibu Village. 3832 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 424.644.0496
Bird Sanctuary, the Adamson House is filled with historic tile. The celebrity-frequented Malibu Country Mart serves as the area’s town square. Together with the adjacent Malibu Village and Malibu Lumber Yard, there are plenty of shops and restaurants for whiling away an afternoon. Inland is wine country, where you can sample the local vino (and feed a giraffe!) at Malibu Wine Safari.
TOPANGA + PACIFIC PALISADES In the 1960s, hippies and musicians such as Neil Young hid out in idyllic Topanga, accessible by Topanga Canyon Boulevard from Pacific Coast Highway. Removed from urban activity, it retains its bohemian vibe and independently owned businesses. Hiking trails allow visitors to bask in Topanga’s woodsy beauty, and
restaurants such as Inn of the Seventh Ray accommodate creekside dining. There’s more than initially meets the eye in seemingly sleepy, family-friendly Pacific Palisades. Upscale momand-pop shops can be found between Via de la Paz and Monument Street near Sunset Boulevard. Palisades Village—from the developer of The Grove and The Americana at Brand—recently opened with over 40 uniquely curated boutiques. The Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine on Sunset is a 10-acre oasis with a koiand swan-filled lake. The crown jewel of the Palisades is the Getty Villa. Styled as a Julius Caesar-era villa, it’s filled with Greco-Roman antiquities.
VENICE Abbot Kinney won in a coin toss the land that would become
Venice. He sought to develop it as an American version of the Italian city; the canals are still there, lined with multimilliondollar bungalows. His namesake Abbot Kinney Boulevard is Venice’s coolest section, where Gjelina, Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea and boutiques such as Bazar, Heist and Huset are the main attractions. Rose Avenue is also coming up, thanks to the emergence of hot restaurants such as reborn Rose CaféRestaurant and Café Gratitude, plus a smattering of hip shops including Parachute. Visitors strolling Ocean Front Walk get an eyeful, what with performers, vendors and Muscle Beach bodybuilders.
BRENTWOOD Marilyn Monroe once called this affluent enclave northeast of Santa Monica home; it remains a favorite celebrity stomping
G
ground. San Vicente Boulevard functions as the neighborhood’s main street, with independent shops, bakeries, cafés and restaurants. The Brentwood Country Mart, a charming open-air shopping center built in 1948, keeps retail offerings upscale. The area’s biggest draw is the Getty Center, the hilltop museum that boasts J. Paul Getty’s spectacular art collection and a beautiful Central Garden.
MARINA DEL REY Marina del Rey’s main attraction is the marina, the largest man-made small-craft harbor in the world. Restaurants such as Cast & Plow and Cafe del Rey are positioned to take advantage of the views, and at the New England-style Fisherman’s Village, boat-rental and cruise companies such as Hornblower offer visitors assorted ways to get out on the water.
> FOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE LISTINGS IN THE WHERE GUIDE ON PAGE 42. FOR A NEIGHBORHOOD MAP OF SANTA MONICA, SEE PAGE 60.
LISA CORSON, USED BY PERMISSION OF THE J. PAUL GETTY TRUST
The Central Garden, created by artist Robert Irwin, at the Getty Center
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L.A.’S FAVORITE SHOPPING & DINING DESTINATION SINCE 1934 SHOPPING
Dozens of family-owned, eclectic stores plus well-known high fashion brands
DINING
Gourmet and casual restaurants and eateries serving cuisine from around the world
SPECIALTY FOOD PURVEYORS
Many artisan grocers and specialty food merchants offering produce, bakery products, wine & cheese, handmade chocolates, ice cream and much more Open daily— adjacent to The Grove, Museum Row, Beverly Hills & Hollywood
6333 W. THIRD ST. • LOS ANGELES • 323.933.9211 FARMERSMARKETLA.COM • #FARMERSMARKETLA Insta
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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN
West Hollywood LOCALS AND TOURISTS ALIKE FLOCK TO WEHO’S ART GALLERIES, BOUTIQUES, RESTAURANTS AND NIGHTCLUBS.
After dark, this iconic strip of Sunset Boulevard between Doheny Drive and Crescent Heights Boulevard becomes one of the hottest stretches of asphalt in L.A. County. The club scene here rocks with legendary establishments like the Roxy, the Whisky a Go Go and the Viper Room, which have a long history of hosting performances by rock ‘n’ roll’s finest. Newer nightclubs include Rock & Reilly’s and 1 OAK. The Comedy Store continues to showcase leading names and emerging stars in stand-up, and restaurants such as Tesse and Boa Steakhouse offer upscale fare. 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. At the Sunset Tower Hotel, Bugsy Siegel’s former suite has been converted into the Tower Bar.
And across the street, the property once known as “Riot Hyatt,” thanks to overzealous guests like Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones and Guns N’ Roses, is now the chic Andaz West Hollywood.
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 eurozone, where you’re apt to hear more French and Italian than Valley girl. For up-to-the-minute fashion, check out Wildfox, Zadig & Voltaire or either of the two H. Lorenzo shops. Pamper yourself with a facial at Ole Henriksen Face/ Body Spa, a blowout at Drybar or a makeover at Blushington. Then, refuel at Obicà Mozzarella Bar or Le Petit Four.
MELROSE AVENUE Melrose Avenue has become virtually synonymous with
trendiness, and new expressions in fashion, art and food continue to percolate up and down this street that has multiple personalities. One part of Melrose, east of Fairfax Avenue, has a mix of indie boutiques, cafés, tattoo parlors and vintage shops. Stores such as Wasteland have wild facades and vibrant signage that add energy to the scene. Farther west, Melrose becomes très sophistiqué, showcasing upscale tastes at Assembly, Kelly Wearstler and Vivienne Westwood. Just off Melrose is the fashionable three-block
GREAT FIND
Cutting-Edge Tresses >Celebrity-favorite stylist Ted Gibson and his husband, colorist Jason Backe, are incorporating cutting-edge technology into their new “smart salon,” Starring by Ted Gibson. Customers are seated in individual “clouds” equipped with tablets, smart speakers and changeable lighting options so they can see how their new do will look in different settings. 211 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.413.2244, starring.tedgibson.com
stretch of Melrose Place, where Bentleys line up at chic Nine Zero One salon and cutting-edge boutiques such as Irene Neuwirth, Mansur Gavriel and the Apartment by the Line.
WEST HOLLYWOOD DESIGN DISTRICT Melrose Avenue’s flourishing art, fashion and design district runs along the pedestrian-friendly retail corridors of Melrose and Beverly and Robertson boulevards. Among its offerings are a new Acne Studios flagship and the first freestanding RH Modern Gallery on Melrose Avenue. The district’s hub is the Pacific Design Center complex— monolithic blue, green and red buildings designed by celebrated architect César Pelli—which houses more than 130 showrooms catering to professional designers and luxury-home owners. Nearby are upscale dining options including Cecconi’s, Craig’s and Gracias Madre.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY BEVERLY CENTER; DALE BERMAN; COURTESY ORIGINAL FARMERS MARKET. BOTTOM LEFT: BRAD MITCHELL COHEN; OPPOSITE FAR RIGHT: COURTESY FRESH
SUNSET STRIP
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The luxury wing at the Beverly Center; the Petersen Automotive Museum; Bob’s Coffee & Doughnuts at the Original Farmers Market
INSIDER TIPS
Plant Power Eat like a local in trendy West Hollywood, where inventive vegan options abound.
Fresh on Sunset
Crossroads Kitchen 8284 Melrose Ave. 323.782.9245
Fresh on Sunset 8768 Sunset Blvd. 310.432.5199
Gracias Madre 8905 Melrose Ave. 323.978.2170
Nic’s on Beverly 8265 Beverly Blvd. 323.746.5130
Pura Vita 8274 Santa Monica Blvd. 323.688.2303
Real Food Daily 414 N. La Cienega Blvd. 310.289.9910
Vegan Glory 8393 Beverly Blvd. 323.653.4900
Veggie Grill 8000 W. Sunset Blvd. Suite A101 323.822.7575
VOWburger 519 N. Fairfax Ave. 323.879.9925 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 25
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New in Town
Chris Burden’s Urban Light at LACMA
APL
Find the most comprehensive assortment of Athletic Propulsion Labs shoes in the world at the sneaker brand’s firstever brick-and-mortar store, located at the Grove. 189 The Grove Drive, L.A., 323.879.9266
Kova
French elegance meets California glamour at this chic new blow dry bar’s flagship location. 132 S. Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.734.7771
Met Him at a Bar
BEVERLY + WEST 3RD Beverly Boulevard and West 3rd Street, major east-west streets running through West Hollywood, are filled with restaurants, design showrooms and boutiques from some of the hottest up-and-coming clothing and accessories designers. The two streets bracket the landmark eight-level Beverly Center, which just underwent a multimilliondollar renovation. Bloomingdale’s, Fendi, Gucci and Louis Vuitton boutiques are among the center’s more than 160 establishments. On West 3rd Street east of Beverly Center, you’ll find favorite boutiques such as OK for design-oriented gifts, Pyrrha for handcrafted jewelry and Wittmore for contemporary menswear. Great dining options include Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo’s seafood spot, Son of a Gun, and modern Israeli restau-
rant Jaffa. On Beverly Boulevard, you can shop for high-end home decor and accessories at Garde and fragrances at Eric Buterbaugh.
ROBERTSON BOULEVARD Robertson Boulevard is no longer a paparazzi magnet, but it’s still home to shops that appeal to the modish set. Hit Chaser for vintage-inspired T-shirts, Peri.A for trend-driven looks and Kitson and Kitson Kids for L.A.-inspired gifts. A Chanel concept store and edgy multibrand boutique Curve illustrate the difference between Robertson Boulevard and more staid Rodeo Drive. Between boutique-hopping, consider a cocktail at Bibo Ergo Sum or crab cakes on the picketfenced patio of Ivy restaurant, legendary for its celebrity clientele. The District by Hannah An and A.O.C., popular for power lunches, are just off Robertson.
FAIRFAX + MID-WILSHIRE L.A.’s Fairfax District and neighboring Mid-Wilshire are among the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in the Mid-City/ West Hollywood area. At Fairfax Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard is the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), a renowned facility with more than 100,000 works dating from the ancient period to today. Adjacent to LACMA is the famous La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, where the ice age comes alive. Additional venues on this Museum Row include the renovated Petersen Automotive Museum and Craft Contemporary. South of the museums is a neighborhood known as Little Ethiopia, where traditional restaurants are located. To the museums’ east is the burgeoning District La Brea, a walkable stretch filled with dining spots like French
bistro République and La Brea Bakery and hip boutiques including American Rag Cie. One of the Fairfax District’s anchors is the Original Farmers Market, established in 1934, with more than 100 produce stalls, shops and eateries. There are spots to satisfy virtually any craving, including a wine bar, pizzerias, a stand with authentic Louisiana gumbo and a new location of Trejo’s Tacos. Adjacent and connected by a vintage trolley is The Grove, an outdoor, pedestrianonly shopping center. The Grove has the character of an oldfashioned village square, with stained-glass streetlamps and a central fountain. Nordstrom, a movie theater and stores such as American Girl Place, Apple and Charlotte Tilbury are joined by myriad restaurants including 189 by Dominique Ansel (inventor of the Cronut) and Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill.
> FOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE LISTINGS IN THE WHERE GUIDE ON PAGE 42. FOR A NEIGHBORHOOD MAP OF WEST HOLLYWOOD, SEE PAGES 60-61.
EDWIN SANTIAGO
The couple behind cute neighborhood café Met Her at a Bar has a new wine and handmade pasta spot across the street. 801 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.852.3321
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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN
Hollywood HOLLYWOOD IS IN THE MIDST OF A NEW GOLDEN AGE, AND HIP LOS FELIZ AND SILVER LAKE SHARE THE LIMELIGHT.
Hollywood & Highland has been a catalyst for the rebirth of Hollywood Boulevard. Its Dolby Theatre is the home of the annual Academy Awards, and the central Babylon Court frames views of the iconic Hollywood sign (built in 1923 to advertise a housing development, the 45-foot-high letters originally read “Hollywoodland”). Other draws include Lucky Strike Live, dining spots and unique shops and boutiques. Next door to Hollywood & Highland is the TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre), famous for its celebrity handand footprints embedded in the concrete out front.
SHOWTIME Just across the street from Hollywood & Highland is the ornate, lavishly illuminated El Capitan Theatre. Masterfully restored by Disney, it offers special presentations of the studio’s releases, combined with performances using an antique Wurlitzer pipe
organ and children-pleasing stage shows. Jimmy Kimmel Live! tapes in an ABC studio next door. The Egyptian Theatre— built in 1922 around the time that King Tut’s tomb was discovered—screens eclectic artsy and classic fare. The landmark Pantages Theatre regularly stages megahit musicals (such as The Book of Mormon and Hamilton), and the Hollywood Palladium has a rich history of showcasing top-notch musicians.
WALK OF FAME The sidewalks along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard (La Brea Avenue to Gower Street) and three blocks of Vine Street (Yucca Street to Sunset Boulevard) are inlaid with the legendary brass-and-terrazzo stars honoring celebrities from the entertainment industry. More than 2,400 stars are enshrined beneath tourists’ feet, but the roster is not without its quirks— Pee-wee Herman has a star, but Clint Eastwood doesn’t. Marilyn Monroe’s star is steps from Hol-
lywood & Highland, and John Lennon’s is in front of the Capitol Records Building, the landmark structure designed to resemble a stack of records.
MUSEUMS, HOLLYWOOD-STYLE Hollywood has museums, but don’t expect to encounter Picasso or Monet. Next to TCL Chinese Theatre is Madame Tussauds Hollywood, filled with more than 100 wax figures ranging from legends like Clark Gable to contemporary stars including Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga. You
GREAT FIND
Wild Card >Otherwild wears many hats. It’s a graphic design studio, a store and a gathering space, founded within an inspiring artistic community. At its Los Feliz location, shop a curated selection of goods from jewelers, ceramicists, perfumers, cooks, designers and more. If you’re feeling creative, stop by for a makers workshop, food swap or even a dance party. 1768 N. Vermont Ave., L.A., 323.546.8437, otherwild.com
can ponder zany accomplishments at the Guinness World Records Museum, while the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium offers bizarre exhibitions. Movie buffs head to the Hollywood Museum in the historic Max Factor Building, which displays 10,000 artifacts showcasing 100 years of showbiz history, including Indiana Jones’ whip and the honeymoon dress worn by Marilyn Monroe after she married Joe DiMaggio.
AROUND VINE The storied intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, the epicenter of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, boasted a large concentration of entertainment-industry companies in the 1920s. It’s a different Hollywood today, but the magic of this location endures in the soaring W Hollywood Hotel & Residences and its Delphine brasserie. A Metro station is integrated into the hotel; Holly-
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: JONALYN SAN DIEGO, UNSPLASH; COURTESY TCL CHINESE THEATRE; DALE BERMAN. BOTTOM LEFT: ISABELLA BEHRAVAN FOR OTHERWILD; OPPOSITE FAR RIGHT: JAKOB LAYMAN
HOLLYWOOD + HIGHLAND
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THIS PAGE, FROM TOP: TCL Chinese Theatre; the Hollywood Museum OPPOSITE: The roof at Griffith Observatory
INSIDER TIPS
Themed Tipples The center of the cinema universe has plenty of bars where you can get lost in another world.
Black Rabbit Rose
Beetle House 1714 N. Las Palmas Ave. 929.291.0337
Black Rabbit Rose 1719 N. Hudson Ave. 323.461.1464
Good Times at Davey Wayne’s 1611 N. El Centro Ave. 323.962.3804
LONO Hollywood 6611 Hollywood Blvd. 323.848.4475
Madame Siam 1723 N. Hudson Ave. 323.337.3727
No Vacancy 1727 N. Hudson Ave. 323.465.1902
Sassafras Saloon 1233 Vine St., 323.467.2800
Scum & Villainy Cantina 6377 Hollywood Blvd. 424.501.4229
The Study Hollywood 6356 Hollywood Blvd. 323.469.0040 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 29
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W
New Newin Town
In Town
Go Get Em Tiger
The locally loved coffee chain’s newest location is tucked into ArcLight Hollywood’s Cinerama Dome. 6360 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.922.4438
s th an
Kismet Rotisserie
Acclaimed Middle Eastern restaurant Kismet has a new fastcasual spot down the block, serving up roast chicken and sides. 4666 Hollywood Blvd., L.A., 323.400.3700
Soprano
wood is particularly well served by mass transit. Across Hollywood Boulevard is dance club Avalon Hollywood. 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 through 31,000 square feet of space packed with rare vinyl records, CDs and memorabilia. A couple of blocks west is Space 15 Twenty, an Urban Outfitters retail concept/mini complex that caters to shoppers with an outsize UO store and space for art, events, performances and pop-up shops.
a lively bar-and-club scene permeates the district. On and around Hollywood Boulevard, you can party under the guise of literary advancement at the library-themed Study Hollywood, drink and dine at Houston Hospitality hot spot No Vacancy, and attempt to get past the velvet ropes at nightclubs like Playhouse. Cahuenga Boulevard also is home to clubs and eateries, including Beauty & Essex. Quintessentially L.A. but a galaxy removed from Hollywood Boulevard is the Hollywood Bowl, the largest outdoor amphitheater in the U.S., where the Los Angeles Philharmonic takes up residence from June to September. Picnicking under the stars here is one of the most memorable experiences in L.A.
NIGHT CRAWLING
LOS FELIZ + SILVER LAKE
The revival of Hollywood has only enhanced its nightlife, and
These neighborhoods are among the hippest in the county (and
perhaps the country). Vermont Avenue, the main drag in Los Feliz, presents a collection of shops and eateries that range from bohemian to chic. Skylight Books and 24/7 diner Fred 62 are popular hangouts. Restaurants such as Atrium represent the neighborhood’s increasing sophistication. Nearby, a stretch of Hollywood Boulevard houses cult-favorite gift shop/gallery Soap Plant/Wacko and Bar Covell, and Barnsdall Art Park offers recreational opportunities including tours of Frank Lloyd Wright’s recently restored Hollyhock House. At Sunset Junction, where Sunset and Santa Monica boulevards intersect, Los Feliz transitions into Silver Lake. Foodies hang at Forage, Sawyer and Kettle Black, while aspiring screenwriters hammer at their laptops and sip lattes at Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea. Farther
east on Sunset Boulevard, cool beach gear at Mollusk Surf Shop and chic handbags at the Clare V. flagship beckon.
A w wi
GRIFFITH PARK Among the largest urban parks in America, Griffith Park is an ideal place to hike, take a train ride, picnic, golf and more. The Charlie Turner Trailhead begins at Griffith Observatory, one of the great planetariums in the world and a frequent film location. The hike up Mount Hollywood (3 miles round trip) provides views of the Hollywood sign, and the Greek Theatre, a 5,870-seat amphitheater, is a legendary music venue. Also here are the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens and the Western-heritage-oriented Autry Museum of the American West, both accessible from the Ventura (SR 134) or Golden State (I-5) freeways.
> FOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE LISTINGS IN THE WHERE GUIDE ON PAGE 42. FOR A NEIGHBORHOOD MAP OF HOLLYWOOD, SEE PAGE 61.
DALE BERMAN
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House
This new ItalianAmerican restaurant boasts a red sauce menu from Hinoki & the Bird chef Brandon Kida. It’s perfect for dinner before a play at the Pantages. 6263 Hollywood Blvd., L.A., 323.879.4100
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3rdStree
With over 75 destination shops, acclaimed restaurants and independent specialty stores West 3rd Street is the most walkable dining and shopping district in the center of Los Angeles.
@W3RDSTREET_LA
A WALKABLE DINING & SHOPPING DISTRICT “Between La Cienega and Fairfax”
Comprised of six connecting blocks between La Cienega Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue, West 3rd Street is just moments from The Grove, The Original Farmers Market, The Beverly Center and The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). www.west3rdstreet.com
DAN DEUTSCH
GOAL SPORTS CAFE
Award winning dining combining local flavors with modern Mediterranean accents paired with an inventive list of signature craft-cocktails.
Expert opticians. Definitive eyewear. Beverly Hills. WeHo, UCLA, Manhattan Beach, Sunset Plaza, Santa Monica, Studio City
East Coast-Style sports bar in L.A. that features elevated bar food and speciality cocktails.
8384 West 3rd Street (323) 579-1600 cleothirdstreet.com
8358 West 3rd Street (323) 658-6181 dandeutschopticaloutlook.com
8334 West 3rd Street (323) 655-5955 goalsportscafe.com
CLEO
THE ORLANDO HOTEL
POLKADOTS & MOONBEAMS
PYRRHA
Chic boutique hotel hip urban ambiance blending hospitality and luxury.
Fabulous, glamorous and accidentally sexy. Mention ad for free gift with purchase.
Symbolic talismans that empower, celebrate, and inspire.
8384 West 3rd Street (800) 624-6835 theorlando.com
8361 and 8367 West 3rd Street (323) 655-3880 polkadotsandmoonbeams.com
8315 West 3rd Street (323) 424-4807 pyrrha.com
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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN
Downtown UNION STATION Union Station was the last of the grand railroad terminals built in the U.S. Its importance faded as the automobile began to dominate life in L.A., but the 80-yearold station has staged a comeback, thanks to a renovation and downtown’s new energy. From the station—the hub of the Metro system—you can board the Red Line to Hollywood and the San Fernando Valley or connect to the Blue Line to Long Beach or the Expo Line to Santa Monica. The Gold Line runs to Pasadena. Nonstop bus service to LAX is available 24/7. Metrolink commuter trains connect distant suburbs, and Amtrak trains offer coastal journeys.
GRAND AVENUE The heart of L.A.’s performingarts scene and the site of its most dramatic architecture, Grand Avenue is beginning to live up to its name. On Bunker Hill, once filled with Victorian mansions, four venues make up a formidable collection of
stages at the Music Center. The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is home to L.A. Opera, and the Ahmanson Theatre and the Mark Taper Forum host theatrical productions. The flashiest venue is architect Frank Gehry’s lauded Walt Disney Concert Hall, winter home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, led by its vivacious music director, Gustavo Dudamel. Also housed at Disney Hall is REDCAT, which offers visual, performing and multimedia arts programming. After a show, take a stroll through the 12-acre Grand Park, between Grand Avenue and Hill Street and 1st and Temple streets.
BUNKER HILL Steps from the Ahmanson is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, designed by Spanish architect Rafael Moneo. A short walk south on Grand is the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), and across from it is The Broad museum, built by philanthropists Eli and Edythe
Broad. Both sites house premier collections of contemporary art. Angels Flight, a vintage funicular (seen in La La Land) that climbs to California Plaza from Hill Street below, reopened recently after repairs. Farther down Grand, at 5th Street, the Bunker Hill Steps rise five stories at the U.S. Bank Tower, site of the OUE Skyspace LA attraction. Across the street is the art deco-style Central Library.
OLVERA STREET The origin of the city of Los Angeles, dating back to 1781,
GREAT FIND
Design Destination >Find great, affordable design at NewMade LA’s showroom inside Amsterdam Modern, located in creative neighborhood Echo Park. Everyday items get a midcentury spin here, including a brass geometric toilet-paper holder and a triangle wall planter. Pair a piece with Amsterdam Modern’s vintage midcentury-modern furniture, sourced from Holland. 134 Glendale Blvd., L.A., 213.493.5583, newmadela.com
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 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 50 cents.
HISTORIC DISTRICTS Undergoing a renaissance is the Broadway Theater District, home to once-opulent movie palaces. Several, such as the United Artists theater (now the stylish Theatre at Ace Hotel), have been revived or restored to their original grandeur. Cool shops such as Acne Studios and BNKR lend cachet to the area. The Bradbury Building, constructed in 1893 in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, was featured in the film Blade Runner. Spring Street from 4th to 7th
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: DALE BERMAN; COURTESY UNION STATION; DALE BERMAN. BOTTOM LEFT: COURTESY NEWMADE LA; OPPOSITE FAR RIGHT: COURTESY CHICAS TACOS
DTLA COULD NOT BE HOTTER RIGHT NOW, WITH NEW RESTAURANTS AND SHOPS OPENING DAILY IN TRENDY ’HOODS.
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The fountain at Grand Park, in the heart of downtown Los Angeles; Union Station, built in 1939; dancing at historic Olvera Street
INSIDER TIPS
Taco Tuesday From taco trucks to cantinas, downtown has a plethora of muy bueno Mexican cuisine.
Chicas Tacos
Chicas Tacos 728 S. Olive St. 213.896.0373
Downtown Taco Co. 216 Alameda St. 213.628.3091
Guerrilla Tacos 2000 E. 7th St. 213.375.3300
Guisados 541 S. Spring St. Suite 101, 213.627.7656
Loqui 818 E. 3rd St. Suite 150, 213.265.7558
Mexicali Taco & Co. 702 N. Figueroa St. 213.613.0416
Sonoratown 208 E. 8th St. 213.628.3710
Tacos 1986 609 S. Spring St. tacos1986.com
Tacos Tumbras a Tomas 317 S. Broadway 213.620.1071 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 33
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New in Town Death & Co
The NYC cocktail institution arrives in the Arts District with an intimate, seated-only bar and a more casual, standingroom-only bar. 810 E. 3rd St., downtown, deathandcompany.com
Father’s Office
The gastropub is now serving its legendary burgers and craft beer in the Arts District, at its largest location to date. 905 E. 2nd St., downtown, 310.736.2224
Love Adorned
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, hidden in the back of historic Cole’s French Dip.
SHOPPING DISTRICTS Downtown’s heritage as a mercantile center is still evident in its historic shopping districts. The Jewelry District draws shoppers looking for deals on diamonds; in the neighboring Fashion District, you can find designer clothing items. At Santee Alley, an open-air bargain bazaar, designer trends breed low-priced knockoffs. The Flower District offers blooms at wholesale prices. For an awesome mix of old-school produce vendors and lunch counters and new, upscale specialty stalls, Grand Central
Market, near the foot of Angels Flight, is the place to go. And the Figat7th shopping center is home to trendy boutiques and eateries.
CHINATOWN Chinatown is a great destination for sampling dim sum, dining at foodie-favorite spots like Howlin’ Ray’s and Baohaus or browsing for clothing, tea or home goods. Cultural highlights include the ornate Thien Hau Temple. Pedestrian-friendly Chung King Road and Gin Ling Way are home to hip galleries; Broadway is lined with boutiques. Dodger Stadium is a short drive away, as is San Antonio Winery, which offers tours and tastings.
LITTLE TOKYO Little Tokyo’s bar scene is popping, and dining options range from traditional sushi at Japanese Village Plaza to seasonal
small plates at Baldoria. Just a few steps down 1st Street is the sleek Japanese American National Museum. The Geffen Contemporary, a branch of MOCA, is next door. At 2nd and Main streets is the Cathedral of St. Vibiana, now home to stylish Redbird restaurant. To Little Tokyo’s east is the Arts District, which boasts buzzy shops and markets; galleries including Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles; a bevy of craft breweries; and such lauded restaurants as The Factory Kitchen, Brera Ristorante and Bestia.
L.A. LIVE The $2.5 billion L.A. Live project is home to Staples Center, as well as the Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers, Sparks and Kings, and it hosts top pop acts, as does Microsoft Theater, which boasts state-of-the-art acoustics. The Grammy Museum honors myr-
iad music genres with videos, artifacts and interactive exhibits. A dozen restaurants and nightlife venues—WP24, Katsuya 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.
EXPOSITION PARK Just south of downtown is Exposition Park, whose grounds hold major museums and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, temporary home of the L.A. Rams. The California African American Museum delves into black history, and the beauxarts-style Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers insight into prehistoric giants. The California Science Center has a 3D Imax theater and exhibits the retired NASA space shuttle Endeavour.
> FOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE LISTINGS IN THE WHERE GUIDE ON PAGE 42. FOR A NEIGHBORHOOD MAP OF DOWNTOWN, SEE PAGE 61.
IWAN BAAN
The Broad
Also in the Arts District, fine jewelry and lifestyle boutique Love Adorned’s newest outpost boasts a floral studio and bamboo installation. 821 E. 3rd St., downtown, 213.363.5683
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CITY TOURS
Pasadena HOME TO THE TOURNAMENT OF ROSES, THE CROWN CITY’S SMALL-TOWN CHARM BLOOMS ALL YEAR LONG.
OLD PASADENA A tribute to foresighted urban planning is the 22-square-block shopping district known as Old Pasadena, roughly bounded by Walnut and Green streets, Arroyo Parkway and Pasadena Avenue. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s a collection of restored buildings filled with trendy boutiques, bistros and nightclubs. Merchants range from Tesla Motors to Zara, and eateries include Union, a top-rated Italian restaurant. Pedestrian-only alleys meander through the One Colorado project in the heart of Old Pasadena, where restaurants offer alfresco dining overlooking a sculpture-strewn square. Boutiques such as Vince and Cop. Copine draw shoppers, while iPic Theaters reimagines the moviegoing experience with state-of-the-art technology, plush seats and a bar/café. Nearby is the Norton Simon Museum, home to one of the finest art collections in the West. The galleries are filled
with works dating from the Renaissance to the 20th century, and the museum’s repertoire of impressionist masters is formidable. To the north, you’ll find Rose Bowl Stadium (home to the UCLA Bruins, concerts and a popular flea market) and, nearby, the interactive Kidspace Children’s Museum. East of Old Pasadena is Paseo Colorado, a shopping center with an ArcLight movie theater, restaurants and shops lining garden promenades. Its open-air design frames views of Pasadena City Hall, a majestic landmark restored to its original beaux-arts grandeur.
PLAYHOUSE DISTRICT + SOUTH LAKE AVENUE Anchored by the Mission-style Pasadena Playhouse, this district offers art house cinema, antique shops and bookstores, as well as the famed Ice House Comedy Club, whose stage has hosted George Carlin and Jerry Seinfeld. Other cultural attractions include the Boston Court
Performing Arts Center and the USC Pacific Asia Museum. East of the Playhouse District, South Lake Avenue provides a vibrant shopping environment. Inviting boutiques are set around European-style courtyards at the Commons and Burlington Arcade. A drive south on Lake Avenue through one of the city’s most opulent residential neighborhoods leads to the Langham Huntington. Consider this grand, historic hotel for high tea, Japanese Kobe beef at its Royce steakhouse or pampering at its award-winning Chuan Spa.
SAN MARINO + SAN GABRIEL VALLEY South of the Langham is San Marino and its primary attraction, The Huntington, whose library, art collections, botanical gardens and education and visitor center occupy one of the most remarkable pieces of real estate in Southern California. Here, the Italianate mansion of railroad magnate Henry Huntington houses an extraordinary collection of 18th- and 19th-century art. A library with nearly 9 million rare books, photographs and manuscripts occupies
GREAT FIND
another structure. Throughout the 200-acre property are more than a dozen distinct botanical environments, the Helen and Peter Bing Children’s Garden and a formal rose garden boasting more than 1,200 rose varieties. Sharing Pasadena’s eastern border are the communities of Sierra Madre and Arcadia, home to Santa Anita Park, one of the most storied thoroughbredhorse-racing venues in the world. Arcadia is also home to the beautiful 127-acre Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden, whose natural Southern California habitat is famous for its wild peacocks. Farther east, scattered along the San Bernardino Freeway (I-10), are the communities of San Gabriel, Temple City, Monterey Park and Alhambra, which have attracted large numbers of Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants. This means the opportunity to enjoy authentic Asian cuisine—everything from hole-in-the-wall bánh mì shops to grandiose Cantonese dim sum palaces—is virtually unrivaled in Southern California. Tourists passionate about history, architecture or faith can explore the 1771 San Gabriel Mission, and the rugged San Gabriel Mountains present myriad hiking opportunities for nature lovers.
Sweet as Honey
SOUTH PASADENA
>On an idyllic stretch in Pasadena, you’ll find Lavender & Honey, a charming espresso bar serving up coffee, deli sandwiches, toasts and pastries. It’s regularly full of young families, friends and solo sippers. Stop by for a French lavender breve and L & H toast—topped with goat cheese and the namesake lavender and honey. 1383 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena, 626.529.5571, lavenderandhoneyespresso.com
The scenic route to South Pasadena on Orange Grove Boulevard passes through a stretch once known as Millionaire’s Row. Some splendid homes remain, including the former
ALL PHOTOS DALE BERMAN. BOTTOM LEFT: MARITHA MAE; OPPOSITE FAR RIGHT: JAMIE PHAM
FIND THE BEST IN
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The Huntington’s cacti-filled Desert Garden; the architecturally significant Pasadena City Hall; shopping in Old Pasadena
INSIDER TIPS
Culture Vulture Pasadena’s cultural institutions shine bright.
Wrigley Mansion (Tournament House), which now houses the Tournament of Roses Association. North of Old Pasadena, the boulevard leads to the Gamble House. This, the most famous achievement of architects Greene and Greene, is a classic representation of the Arts and Crafts movement that left its imprint on Pasadena. South Pasadena is a tranquil community whose Craftsman homes range from bungalows to mansions,
and its Mission West Historic District is lined with antique shops, art galleries, casual cafés and kid-friendly spots like Fair Oaks Pharmacy, a restored drugstore from 1915.
EAGLE ROCK + GLENDALE West of Pasadena is Eagle Rock, a quiet college town reinventing itself as a trendy L.A. neighborhood. Its main drag of Colorado Boulevard is lined with restaurants including Casa Bianca, a
venerable old-school pizza joint. Students from Occidental College—where Barack Obama once studied—mingle with young couples who are snapping up hillside homes. On the far side of Eagle Rock is Glendale, the third-largest city in Los Angeles County. There, office workers pour out of highrises for happy hour at The Americana at Brand, an open-air shopping, residential and entertainment development. Stylesavvy shoppers can browse in boutiques, catch a movie or recharge at the Americana’s restaurants, which include the Philippe Starck-designed Katsuya and celebrity chef Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak. Home to a large Armenian community, Glendale offers a wealth of ethnic eateries specializing in kebabs, shawarma and belly dancing. Marked by a towering neon obelisk is the Alex Theatre, a restored art deco masterpiece that hosts concerts and musicals. Blocks from the Alex is the Museum of Neon Art, dedicated to showcasing a quintessentially L.A. craft. North of Glendale is the community of Montrose, whose main street of Honolulu Avenue is more Mayberry than L.A., with homespun shops and diners. Close by, in La Cañada Flintridge, is sprawling Descanso Gardens, with North America’s largest camellia collection—an awesome sight when in full bloom during January and February.
USC Pacific Asia Museum
Armory Center for the Arts 145 N. Raymond Ave. 626.792.5101
Gamble House 4 Westmoreland Place 626.793.3334
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens 1151 Oxford Road San Marino, 626.405.2100
Kidspace Children’s Museum 480 N. Arroyo Blvd. 626.449.9144
Norton Simon Museum 411 W. Colorado Blvd. 626.449.6840
Pasadena Museum of History 470 W. Walnut St. 626.577.1660
Southern California Children’s Museum 459 E. Colorado Blvd. 626.657.0357
USC Pacific Asia Museum > FOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE ON PAGE 42. FOR A NEIGHBORHOOD MAP, SEE PAGE 62.
46 N. Los Robles Ave. 626.787.2680 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 37
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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN
South Bay THE SOUTH BAY’S BEACHES AND HARBORS BOAST OCEANVIEW DINING, MOM-AND-POP SHOPS AND FUN ATTRACTIONS.
Less than 5 miles south of LAX, Manhattan Beach boasts 2 miles of beaches with sand so fine that developers exported it to Waikiki Beach in the 1920s. Laid-back Manhattan Beach is home to many professional athletes: You might 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. The city’s picturesque pier, with its newly modernized Roundhouse Aquarium, features plaques commemorating winners of the Manhattan Beach Open—the South Bay is diehard beach-volleyball country. It’s also a playground for watersports enthusiasts, including bodyboarders and surfers. East of the pier along Manhattan Beach Boulevard and Manhattan Avenue are chic boutiques and a burgeoning dining scene, with restaurants such as Fishing With Dynamite, Love & Salt, Little Sister and The Strand
House drawing gourmets from across L.A. The Metlox center is a popular gathering place, with shops like the Beehive. Between Manhattan Beach and LAX to the north is El Segundo, an industrial city with a quaint downtown and upscale shopping and dining centers including The Point.
HERMOSA BEACH Head south on Manhattan Avenue to Pier Avenue, the heart of Hermosa Beach. Hermosa shares many characteristics with Manhattan Beach, including its own scenic stretch of beach 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 the foot of the pier becomes a different kind of South Bay scene, thanks to spillover from bars and restaurants such as Hennessey’s Tavern and Tower 12. Close to
Pier Plaza, on Hermosa Avenue, Jay Leno still draws crowds to the Comedy & Magic Club Sunday nights. To the plaza’s east, café/boutique Gum Tree and the Hook & Plow are standouts among the specialty shops and eateries that line Pier Avenue. Farther east, Becker 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
GREAT FIND
Piece of Cake >Kids—and kids at heart—can satisfy both their inner artist and sweet tooth at Duff’s Cakemix. Part of shopping center the Works, the South Bay spot is the fourth location of Food Network star Duff Goldman’s DIY cake- and cupcake-decorating studio. Popular for parties, the spot provides everything you need to bring your creative cake vision to life. 730 S. Allied Way, El Segundo, 424.373.3044, duffscakemix.com
featuring 2 miles of sandy beaches, the popular Redondo Beach Pier and King Harbor. Sepulveda Boulevard becomes Pacific Coast Highway as it enters town; signs point west to King Harbor’s Redondo Beach Marina, one of four marinas in the harbor. Here businesses such as Redondo Sportfishing offer fishing excursions and whalewatching tours, while other local outfitters rent out kayaks, paddleboats, bicycles and wave runners. South of the harbor, the historic Redondo Beach Pier attracts locals and visitors with quick-and-casual eateries, amusements and souvenir shops. South of the pier, the gentle waves and somewhat narrow strip of Redondo State Beach draw crowds during the summer, while the bike path meanders by on its way to its terminus at Torrance State Beach. One block east of the beach, the Riviera Village shopping district has a small-town
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: ALAMY STOCK PHOTO; LISA CORSON; COURTESY AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC. BOTTOM LEFT: HERMAN-SCHEER; OPPOSITE FAR RIGHT: COURTESY THE PORTOFINO HOTEL & MARINA
MANHATTAN BEACH
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The Manhattan Beach Pier and Roundhouse Aquarium; Hermosa Beach; a penguin at Long Beach’s Aquarium of the Pacific
INSIDER TIPS
Go Fish Enjoy some of the county’s best seafood in this coastal region.
BALEENkitchen
BALEENkitchen 260 Portofino Way Redondo Beach 310.372.1202
Captain Kidd’s Fish Market and Restaurant 209 N. Harbor Drive Redondo Beach 310.372.7703
Costa 1017 Manhattan Ave. Manhattan Beach 310.376.1536
FISHBAR 3801 Highland Ave. Manhattan Beach 310.796.2020
Fishing With Dynamite 1148 Manhattan Ave. Manhattan Beach 310.893.6299
Rock’N Fish 120 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Manhattan Beach 310.379.9900
San Pedro Fish Market Grille 1313 W. Sepulveda Blvd. Harbor City, 424.263.5864; more at spfishgrille.com WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 39
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New in Town Barry’s
Work up a sweat at the cult-fave workout studio, now open at new dining and retail destination 2ND & PCH. 6480 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Suite D-155, Long Beach, 562.689.7455
Caffe Luxxe
The farm-to-cup coffee chain opens its seventh location, also at 2ND & PCH. Try the exclusive Naples Blend. 6420 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach, caffeluxxe.com
Costa
feel, with restaurants and specialty boutiques such as Cami and the Catalina Cooking Store covering a six-block radius.
PALOS VERDES PENINSULA Beyond Redondo Beach rises the Palos Verdes Peninsula, a rugged 26-square-mile area known for majestic bluffs that afford sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Catalina Island. Head a few miles inland via Palos Verdes Drive North to the 87-acre South Coast Botanic Garden, a year-round attraction featuring 200,000 plants. Or hug the coast on Palos Verdes Drive West to Rancho Palos Verdes’ Point Vicente Interpretive Center, a popular graywhale-watching site. Just past the adjacent Point Vicente Lighthouse is the Mediterranean-style Terranea Resort, which offers fine dining, a 50,000-square-
foot oceanfront spa and a public nine-hole golf course. Farther along is the Wayfarers Chapel, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright’s son Lloyd Wright. The impressive Swedenborgian “glass church” is a popular wedding venue.
SAN PEDRO The multicultural community of San Pedro, on the southeastern side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, was once the largest commercial fishing port in the nation. Today it’s home to the bustling 7,500-acre Port of Los Angeles, which features passenger and cargo terminals, as well as a crafts marketplace and brewery. Catalina Express operates from Berth 95, offering daily boat service to Catalina’s quaint city of Avalon and rustic village of Two Harbors. More than a million travelers pass through the World Cruise Center (Berths 91-93) annu-
ally; adjacent to the complex is the battleship-turned-museum Battleship Iowa Museum. A few miles south is the Cabrillo Beach Recreational Complex, which includes a marina, the Frank Gehry-designed Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and Cabrillo Beach— one of the county’s most popular windsurfing spots.
LONG BEACH In the county’s southwestern corner, Long Beach is home to a busy commercial port, an attraction-packed waterfront and more than 5 miles of beaches. A popular draw is the 1,020-foot-long Queen Mary, a historic, supposedly haunted ship-turned-hotel, dining and shopping attraction permanently moored in Long Beach Harbor. The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, the Pike Outlets, the Aquarium of the
Pacific and Shoreline Village are nearby. From the village, you can follow the Shoreline pedestrian bike path 3.1 miles, past the Long Beach Museum of Art and into the Belmont Shore neighborhood. Here you’ll find shops and restaurants along 2nd Street, Bay Shore Beach, the Belmont Pier and windsurfing and kitesurfing lessons. Across a small channel is Naples, where you can take gondola rides through the canals and dine at restaurants such as Michael’s on Naples. Downtown, along 4th Street between Junipero and Cherry avenues, vintage furniture and clothing shops make up funky “Retro Row.” In the emergent East Village Arts District, hip galleries and boutiques are sprouting. 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 ON PAGE 42. FOR A NEIGHBORHOOD MAP OF THE SOUTH BAY, SEE PAGE 61.
STEVE NICHOLS/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO
The Queen Mary ocean liner
Mélisse chef Josiah Citrin’s new coastal restaurant offers seafood and pasta steps from the Manhattan Beach Pier. 1017 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.376.1536
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THE GUIDE SPRING
The name of Italian Renaissance painter, sculptor and architect Michelangelo is synonymous with creative genius and virtuosity. Michelangelo: Mind of the Master, open through June 7 at the Getty Center, displays more than two dozen of his extraordinary drawings, many of which have never before been shown outside of Europe. These studies and sketches let museumgoers experience firsthand Michelangelo’s boundless creativity and pioneering representation of the human form. See museum listings.
MICHELANGELO BUONARROTI, SEATED MALE NUDE; SEPARATE STUDY OF HIS RIGHT ARM (RECTO); STUDIES OF FIGURES AND LIMBS; FIGURE SKETCHES (VERSO), 1511. TEYLERS MUSEUM, HAARLEM, PURCHASED IN 1790, IMAGE © TEYLERS MUSEUM, HAARLEM
THE BEST IN L.A.
RENAISSANCE MAN
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THE GUIDE / DINING BEVERLY BOULEVARD / 3RD STREET / MELROSE AVENUE A.O.C. > Mediterranean $$$ Explore a Mediterranean-inspired menu at the eatery that pioneered two L.A. culinary trends—the small-plates format and the wine bar—from James Beard Award-winning Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8700 W. 3rd St., L.A., 310.859.9859 Map I12 BAO DIM SUM > Chinese $$ Enjoy delicious, authentic dim sum in a relaxing, lantern-lit atmosphere. Favorites include juicy pork dumplings and shrimp shumai, followed by bao milk buns for dessert. L, D (daily). 8256 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.655.6556 Map I12 CLEO > Mediterranean $$$ Executive chef Danny Elmaleh’s Mediterranean small plates include kebabs of skirt steak and lamb, and woodburned flatbreads. B, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). The Orlando Hotel, 8384 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.579.1600 Map I12 (V) CROSSROADS KITCHEN > Mediterranean $$$ Chef/partner Tal Ronnen creates exclusively plant-based dishes here, many based on nonvegan comfort-food classics. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8284 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.782.9245 Map H12 THE DISTRICT BY HANNAH AN > Pan-Asian $$$ One of the celebrated An sisters—her family introduced Beverly Hills’ Crustacean—offers cuisine that reflects her Vietnamese heritage while incorporating California sensibilities in a chic indoor-outdoor space. L, D (daily); Br (SaSu). 8722 W. 3rd St., L.A., 310.278.2345 Map I12 (V) GRACIAS MADRE > Mexican/Latin $$ Organic, plant-based Mexican fare is served at this beautiful restaurant (the patio’s ambiance can’t be beat) from the team behind Café Gratitude. Inventive dishes like coconut ceviche and flautas de camote please vegans and omnivores alike. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8905 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.978.2170 Map I12 JOAN’S ON THIRD > American $$ Celebrity-frequented café on busy West 3rd Street offers omelets, sandwiches, salads, soups and sweets, plus picnic baskets and gourmet items. B, L, D (daily). 8350 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.655.2285 Map I12 THE LITTLE DOOR > French $$$ For a candlelit dinner in a romantic setting, this is the reservation ne plus ultra. Dine on rustic FrenchMediterranean dishes under the stars. D (nightly). 8164 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.951.1210 Map I12 LUCQUES > Mediterranean $$$ Chef/owner Suzanne Goin (A.O.C.) delivers the next generation of Cal-Med cuisine, which includes delicious starters such as grilled lamb merguez with haricots verts, banyuls, dried figs and treviso. L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly). 8474 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.655.6277 Map I13
COURTESY JOEY RESTAURANTS
OSTERIA MOZZA > Italian $$$ Famed L.A.-based bread maker Nancy Silverton is a partner in Mozza’s group of contemporary Italian restaurants, which includes this sophisticated dining room. D (nightly). 6602 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.0100 Map H13 PIZZERIA MOZZA/MOZZA2GO > Italian $$ The more relaxed sibling of Osteria Mozza, Pizzeria Mozza features pizzas with Mediterranean ingredients, cheeses and salumi plates, and rustic daily specials. Call ahead for delivery or takeout from Mozza2Go. L, D (daily). Pizzeria Mozza: 641 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.297.0101. Mozza2Go: 6610 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.1130 Map H13
Guidelines Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps in the back of this issue. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
Index Beverly Boulevard........ 43 Beverly Hills................. 43 Brentwood.................... 44 Century City.................. 44 Culver City.................... 44 Downtown..................... 44 Hollywood..................... 46 La Brea......................... 46 La Cienega Boulevard. 46
Malibu........................... 46 Marina del Rey............. 46 Pasadena...................... 46 Santa Monica................ 48 South Bay..................... 48 Valley............................. 48 Venice............................ 48 West Hollywood............ 49 Westside....................... 49
(V) = Vegan/Vegetarian
PROVIDENCE > Seafood $$$$ Michael Cimarusti (who’s also behind West Hollywood’s Connie and Ted’s) transforms sustainable seafood into oft-changing dishes at this refined restaurant. Outstanding cocktails complement Michelin-recognized cuisine. L (F), D (nightly). 5955 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.460.4170 Map I14 ROSALINÉ > Mexican/Latin $$$ Acclaimed chef Ricardo Zarate’s sunny restaurant— named after his mother—introduces the “next phase of Peruvian dining” (e.g., kampachi ceviche, chicharrón de paiche). D (nightly). 8479 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.297.9500 Map I12 SON OF A GUN > Seafood $$$ Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, the meat-loving chefs at Animal, turn to the sea for inspiration here. They cook up small shareable plates, such as miniature lobster rolls and shrimp-toast sandwiches, in a nautically themed space. L, D (daily). 8370 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.9033 Map I12 TERRONI > Italian $$ Reliable Southern Italian cooking, including excellent thin-crust pizza and pastas. Try the delicious capunti al ragù d’agnello. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 7605 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.954.0300 Map J13
BEVERLY HILLS THE BELVEDERE > Mediterranean $$$$ The Peninsula Beverly Hills’ restaurant has a lovely terrace and menu from executive chef David Codney. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.788.2306 Map J11 CRUSTACEAN > Pan-Asian $$$ A walk-on-water aquarium meanders throughout the length of this modern-Vietnamese Beverly Hills landmark, which recently reopened its doors following a $10 million redesign. Enjoy reimagined Asian-fusion dishes while still satisfying cravings with the An family’s legendary “Secret Kitchen” dishes. L (TuF), D (Tu-Su). 468 N. Bedford Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.205.8990 Map I11 CULINA > Italian $$$ The Four Seasons’ acclaimed Italian restaurant boasts coastal influences and a sleek crudo bar. Adjacent is Vinoteca, an Italian-inspired wine- and espresso-bar concept. B, D (daily); L (M-Sa); Br (Su). Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, 300 S. Doheny Drive, L.A., 310.860.4000 Map J12
Block Party
Open-air urban center THE BLOC has become a downtown destination for dining, shopping and entertainment. Upscale-casual Canadian chain Joey DTLA recently opened in a sprawling space that boasts downtown’s largest street-level patio, where you can enjoy globally inspired cuisine that ranges from ramen to steak and lobster ravioli (pictured above; joeyrestaurants.com). On the Plaza Level, District is an industrial-chic restaurant and bar serving up creative handcrafted cocktails and farm-to-table food (districtdtla. com). For dinner and a show, enjoy the latest flicks accompanied by full meals and local beers at film-buff favorite Alamo Drafthouse Cinema (drafthouse.com). Marugame Udon, the Urban Oven, Hatch Yakitori + Bar and others round out the culinary offerings. 700 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.454.4926, theblocla.com
> Chef José Andrés (whose Somni recently received two Michelin stars) has twice been named one of the world’s 100 most influential people by Time. p. 46 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 43
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DINING
BALTAIRE > Steak $$$$ Executive chef Travis Strickland’s sophisticated restaurant offers prime steaks, wines by the glass, old-school charm and sun-or-stars dining on its terrace. L (M-F), D (nightly). 11647 San Vicente Blvd., L.A., 424.273.1660 Map J12
Trout and crispy rice at Jean-Georges Beverly Hills
CUT > Steak $$$$ A collaboration between Getty Center architect Richard Meier and Wolfgang Puck, CUT is the place to savor genuine wagyu beef steaks or dry-aged Nebraska beef. D (M-Sa). Beverly Wilshire Hotel, 9500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.276.8500 Map J11 THE GRILL ON THE ALLEY > Steak $$$ The Grill is a venerable industry hangout, where polished waiters deliver steaks, Cobb salads, chicken potpies and other old-school fare. L (M-Sa), D (nightly). 9560 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.276.0615 Map I11 JEAN-GEORGES BEVERLY HILLS > California $$$$ Michelin-rated French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s namesake restaurant at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills is an opulent indoor/outdoor fine-dining destination, perfect for enjoying fresh, local cuisine. B, L, D (daily). 9850 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.860.6666 Map J11 MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$$ Swanky “steakhouse with personality.” Bone-in filet reigns; warm butter cake melts in your mouth. Penthouse at Mastro’s is an upstairs lounge. D (nightly). 246 N. Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.888.8782 Map J11 MATSUHISA > Japanese $$$$ Superchef Nobu Matsuhisa’s relatively modest original flagship incorporates luxurious Western ingredients and Latin American spices. L (M-F), D (nightly). 129 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.659.9639 Map I12 MAUDE > California $$$$ Aussie celebrity chef Curtis Stone helms this 24-seat restaurant. Four times a year, Stone and his team offer a new tasting menu and optional wine pairings inspired by a great wine region of the world. D (Tu-Sa). 212 S. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.859.3418 Map J11 MR CHOW > Chinese $$$$ The L.A. County edition of scene-y restaurants in New York, London, Miami, Las Vegas and Mexico City offers Imperial Beijing cuisine. L (M-F), D (nightly). 344 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.278.9911 Map I11 NATALEE THAI > Thai $$ Traditional Thai dishes are served amid edgy, modern decor. Popular entrées include Nutty Chicken and a sole filet in red curry sauce. Veggie lovers favor the spicy maha jumlong curry. L, D (daily). 998 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.855.9380 Map J12 SPAGO > California $$$ An L.A. institution, Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant features a modern dining room and a daily changing menu that may include dishes like veal “Wiener schnitzel” and spicy tuna tartare. L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly). 176 N. Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.385.0880 Map I11
BESTIA > Italian $$$ Multiregional Italian restaurant in the hip Arts District serves up such “beast”-focused dishes as roasted marrow bone with spinach gnocchetti, breadcrumbs and aged balsamic. D (nightly). 2121 E. 7th Place, downtown, 213.514.5724 Map east of J17
JON & VINNY’S > Italian $$ Popular, stylish yet family-friendly diner from chefs/owners Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, which just opened a new Brentwood outpost, has it all—pastries, pizza, pasta (made in-house) and meat entrées. B, L, D (daily). 11938 San Vicente Blvd., L.A., 310.442.2733 Map J12
BOTTEGA LOUIE > Italian $$ This palatial Italian restaurant, decked out in white marble, is a hip, noisy hall where young professionals convene over brick-oven-cooked pizzas. There’s a gourmet market and patisserie, too. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 700 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.802.1470 Map I16
TAVERN > California $$$ James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin’s third L.A. restaurant explores rustic Cal-Med fare in chic environs. The frequently changing menu might include “devil’s chicken” with leeks and mustard breadcrumbs. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 11648 San Vicente Blvd., L.A., 310.806.6464 Map J9
BRERA RISTORANTE > Italian $$$ From the team behind the Factory Kitchen, this stylish trattoria (formerly Officine Brera) serves a daily changing, Northern Italy-inspired menu. The rice dishes, spit-roasted meats and handmade pastas are superb. D (nightly). 1331 E. 6th St., downtown, 213.553.8006 Map J17
CENTURY CITY
BROKEN SPANISH > Mexican/Latin $$$ This “modern Mexican” restaurant near L.A. Live serves classically trained chef Ray Garcia’s innovative twists on traditional dishes. Try the oxtail quesadilla and lambneck tamale. D (nightly). 1050 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.749.1460 Map I15
CRAFT > American $$$ New York chef Tom Colicchio of TV’s Top Chef brings his signature concept to L.A. The restaurant delivers a contemporary à la carte menu, with fun, shareable dishes. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 10100 Constellation Blvd., L.A., 310.279.4180 Map K11 DIN TAI FUNG > Chinese $$ Foodies line up at this dumpling house for soup dumplings with filling combinations such as pork and crab or truffle and pork. Vegetable dishes like cucumber salad and sautéed string beans are also favorites. L, D (daily). Westfield Century City, 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 424.382.1118 Map J10
CULVER CITY LUKSHON > Pan-Asian $$$ Sang Yoon of Father’s Office is behind this Southeast Asian eatery. The crispy whole fish is not to be missed. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa). 3239 Helms Ave., Culver City, 310.202.6808 Map K12 NATALEE THAI > Thai $$ Traditional Thai dishes are served amid edgy, modern decor. Popular entrées include Nutty Chicken and a sole filet in red curry sauce. Veggie lovers favor the spicy maha jumlong curry. L, D (daily). 10101 Venice Blvd., L.A., 310.202.7003 Map L11 VESPERTINE > Eclectic/Fusion $$$$ Chef Jordan Kahn’s pricey “gastronomical experiment” topped late L.A. Times restaurant critic Jonathan Gold’s 2017 list of the city’s 101 best restaurants. Expect a spaceage meal of 18-plus courses. Reservations must be made in advance online. D (Tu-Sa). 3599 Hayden Ave., Culver City, 323.320.4023, vespertine.la Map L12
DOWNTOWN 71ABOVE > American $$$$ In addition to skyline views, expect elevated modern American dishes at this restaurant on the 71st floor of the U.S. Bank Tower. À la carte options are available at the bar, and prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus are offered in the main dining room and several private dining spaces. L (M-F), D (nightly). 633 W. 5th St., 71st Floor, downtown, 213.712.2683 Map H16 BAVEL > Mediterranean $$$ Bestia chef Ori Menashe and wife/pastry chef Genevieve Gergis bring Middle Eastern cuisine into the mainstream at this lively, trendsetting Arts District restaurant. The menu features a wide-ranging selection of mezze and larger plates such as herb-stuffed dorade with red chermoula. D (nightly). 500 Mateo St., downtown, 213.232.4966 Map J17
DRAGO CENTRO > Italian $$$ Chef Celestino Drago’s well-executed Italian fare and extensive wine list are presented in a contemporary and handsome space. L (M-F), D (nightly). 525 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.228.8998 Map H16 THE FACTORY KITCHEN > Italian $$$ Former Valentino chef Angelo Auriana turns his attention to a casual, industrial-chic setting in the Arts District. Fresh-made pastas, beautiful cheeses and cured meats, complemented by an inventive cocktail program, contribute to a daily changing menu. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1300 Factory Place, Suite 101, downtown, 213.996.6000 Map J17 GUERRILLA TACOS > Mexican/Latin $$ Chef Wes Avila’s lauded taco truck recently put it in park to open a brick-and-mortar space in the Arts District, complete with a bar and patio. B (M-F), L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 2000 E. 7th St., downtown, 213.375.3300 Map J17 KENDALL’S BRASSERIE AND BAR > French $$$ Located at the Music Center, Kendall’s is a convenient spot for before or after a performance. In addition to dishes with a contemporary flair, all the brasserie favorites are here. L (M-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.7322 Map H16 L.A. PRIME > Steak $$$$ Enjoy city views, wet-aged steaks and an award-winning wine list at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites’ 35th-floor restaurant. D (nightly). The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, 404 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.612.4743 Map I16 LE PETIT PARIS > French $$$ The L.A. iteration of Cannes’ original Le Petit Paris is housed in the historic El Dorado building. By day, the brasserie is bright and tranquil. At night, it becomes an upscale lounge. L (W-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 418 S. Spring St., downtown, 213.217.4445 Map I17 LITTLE SISTER > Pan-Asian $$ Signatures at chef Tin Vuong’s pan-Asian spots include Balinese fried meatballs and salt-and-pepper lobster. L, D (daily). 523 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.628.3146 Map I16 ORSA & WINSTON > Eclectic/Fusion $$$$ Chef/owner Josef Centeno draws on Japanese and Italian traditions at this acclaimed restaurant. For dinner,
WILLIAM RUST
BRENTWOOD
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DINING enjoy a daily changing five-course tasting menu with nightly supplements and an optional wine pairing. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa), Br (Sa-Su). 122 W. 4th St., downtown, 213.687.0300 Map I16
TA K E A T R I P TO T H E MEDITERRANEAN, W I T H O U T L E AV I N G L . A .
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OTIUM > California $$$ French Laundry alum Timothy Hollingsworth helms this modern restaurant adjacent to the Broad museum, preparing rustic, market-driven cuisine such as hamachi with nori and avocado, and a signature black-cod dish. L (Tu-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 222 S. Hope St., downtown, 213.935.8500 Map H16 PATINA > French $$$$ The Walt Disney Concert Hall pairs classical-music offerings with fine dining, thanks to its fine in-house restaurant. Game dishes are a frequent presence on the menu. D (Tu-Su). 141 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.3331 Map H16 PHILIPPE THE ORIGINAL > Quick Bites $ The purported birthplace of the French dip sandwich, this down-home cafeteria is an L.A. institution, established in 1908. Try the 50-cent coffee. B, L, D (daily). 1001 N. Alameda St., downtown, 213.628.3781 Map G17 Q SUSHI > Japanese $$$$ The omakase-only experience at this intimate sushi bar showcases the artistry and discipline of chef Hiroyuki Naruke in items like seared toro and a parade of simply prepared sushi. These strictly traditional interpretations are never flashy but always rewarding. L (Tu-F), D (TuSa). 521 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.225.6285 Map I16 REDBIRD > American $$$ Chef Neal Fraser’s contemporary American cuisine is offered in the rectory of the former Cathedral of St. Vibiana, making Redbird both a cultural and culinary landmark. Updated Spanish Baroque decor and retro-inspired cocktails complete the scene. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 114 E. 2nd St., downtown, 213.788.1191 Map H17 ROSSOBLU > Italian $$$ Chef Steve Samson and wife Dina are behind this gorgeous Italian restaurant in City Market South, a new complex in the up-and-coming Fashion District, where Samson serves Bolognese family favorites. D (nightly), Br (Su). 1124 San Julian St., downtown, 213.749.1099 Map J16 TERRONI > Italian $$ Reliable Southern Italian cooking, including excellent thin-crust pizza, from a Toronto-based chain. Great happy-hour specials. The downtown location inhabits a historic bank building. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 802 S. Spring St., downtown, 213.221.7234 Map I16 WP24 > Pan-Asian $$$$ From its 24th-floor roost, WP24 proves that Wolfgang Puck, who pioneered Asian fusion, has still got the goods. Highlights include Chinese Crystal Dumplings and steamed bao filled with pork belly. The restaurant offers some of downtown’s best skyline views. Restaurant/lounge concept Nest at WP24 is adjacent. Dining room: D (Tu-Sa). Nest: D (nightly). The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, 900 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.743.8824 Map I15 WURSTKÜCHE > Quick Bites $$ Don’t even try to pronounce it—”the sausage place” will do. Bar/restaurant offers thick-cut Belgian fries and a repertory of exotic franks: rattlesnake and rabbit, buffalo with Luxardo cherries and mint. Open late. L, D (daily). 800 E. 3rd St., downtown, 213.687.4444 Map I17 YANG CHOW > Chinese $$ Fine Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine and an elegant atmosphere has made this restaurant a Chinatown mainstay since the Yun family opened the spot in 1977. Don’t miss the Slippery Shrimp, which have been featured on Food Network. L, D (daily). 819 N. Broadway, downtown, 213.625.0811 Map G17
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DINING
SALAZAR > Mexican/Latin $$ This trendy taco destination—a colorful desert oasis set in a reworked Frogtown auto-body shop—specializes in outdoor dining, grilled meats and fun drinks. Pair tasty tacos with aguas frescas and cocktails. L, D (Tu-Su); Br (Sa-Su). 2490 Fletcher Drive, L.A., salazarla.com Map southeast of W23
The open kitchen at Angler
HOLLYWOOD / EASTSIDE
TROIS MEC > French $$$$ Ludo Lefebvre, Vinny Dotolo and Jon Shook are behind this hot restaurant in a 26-seat former pizzeria. Diners must make advance reservations via phone or the restaurant’s website to enjoy Lefebvre’s prix fixe, multicourse meal. D (Tu-Sa). 716 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.484.8588, troismec.com Map H13
LA BREA / MID-CITY
ALIMENTO > Italian $$$ Zach Pollack, who recently opened Cosa Buona in Echo Park, is behind this tiny, hip space, where a clever menu includes tortellini in brodo, with dumplings filled with a hot broth that explode in your mouth. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 1710 Silver Lake Blvd., L.A., 323.928.2888 Map east of W23
ANIMAL > American $$$ This bare-bones eatery from Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo is a carnivore’s dream. Dishes include delectable takes on offal (such as pig ear). D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 435 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.782.9225 Map I13
APL RESTAURANT > Steak $$$$ At classically trained chef and barbecue expert Adam Perry Lang’s steakhouse, starters include new versions of old-school favorites. Chops and steaks like the ribeye, bone-in New York strip and tomahawk chop are all dry-aged on-site. D (nightly). 1680 Vine St., Hollywood, 323.416.1280 Map H14
JON & VINNY’S > Italian $$ Popular, stylish yet family-friendly diner from chefs/ owners Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, which just opened a Brentwood outpost, has it all—pastries, pizza, pasta (made in-house) and meat entrées. Takeout and delivery are also available. B, L, D (daily). 412 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.334.3369 Map B2
THE BOURBON ROOM > American $$$ Step into the world of Rock of Ages at this new restaurant and bar. The immersive theatrical and dining experience features dinner and bar service before, during and after performances. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 6356 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, rockofageshollywood.com Map H14
PINK’S HOT DOGS > Quick Bites $ There’s a perpetual queue in front of this hot-dog stand, open since 1939, which serves around 30 kinds of dogs and chili cheeseburgers, too. Open late. B, L, D (daily). 709 N. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.931.4223 Map I13
CLEO > Mediterranean $$$ The Hollywood location of this bustling mezze restaurant recently reopened in the new h Club Los Angeles with a menu from chef Martin Heierling. D (nightly). 1717 Vine St., Hollywood, 323.962.1711 Map H14 GWEN > American $$$$ Maude chef Curtis Stone and brother Luke’s restaurant features meat-centric tasting menus served in an art deco dining room, plus a European-style butcher shop in the front. L (M-F), D (nightly). 6600 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.946.7513 Map H14 THE MUSSO & FRANK GRILL > Steak $$$ Hollywood’s oldest restaurant, with a storied history, just celebrated its centennial. Enjoy flannel cakes, lobster Thermidor and Welsh rarebit with the martini; legend has it that this place invented the drink. B, L (Tu-Sa); D (Tu-Su). 6667 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.7788 Map H13 NIGHT + MARKET > Thai $$ For acclaimed Thai food, head to the WeHo, Silver Lake (Night + Market Song) or Venice outpost (Night + Market Sahm) of this hip spot from L.A.-born chef Kris Yenbamroong. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 3322 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.665.5899 Map south of W23 PALEY > California $$$ This glamorous restaurant (named after former CBS CEO William S. Paley) pays homage to the golden age of Hollywood. Inside a midcentury-modern dining room, dine on classic dishes with a modern twist. L, D (M-F). 6115 Sunset Blvd., Suite 100, L.A., 323.544.9430 Map H14
RÉPUBLIQUE > French $$ Fine-dining veteran Walter Manzke and pastry-chef wife Margarita turn out bistro classics (e.g., escargots, duck confit) for a trendy clientele huddling at communal tables inside a landmark once occupied by Charlie Chaplin’s studio. Café: B, L (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Bistro: D (nightly). 624 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 310.362.6115 Map I13
LA CIENEGA BOULEVARD / RESTAURANT ROW ANGLER > Seafood $$$$ Acclaimed Bay Area chef Joshua Skenes has brought his Michelin-starred prowess to the Beverly Center to open a Los Angeles version of San Francisco’s Angler. The menu at the “sea-life focused” restaurant is centered around a giant wood-burning hearth, where Skenes applies his unique fire cooking methods to locally sourced produce, game and seafood. D (nightly). 8500 Beverly Blvd., Suite 117, L.A., 424.332.4082 Map J12 BARTON G. THE RESTAURANT > American $$$ The L.A. location of Barton G. Weiss’ Miami Beach restaurant offers fun, showstopping food presentations in a fine-dining setting, making each meal an experience. Favorites include the Laughing Bird Popcorn Shrimp and cotton-candy dessert Marie Antoinette’s Head. D (nightly). 861 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.388.1888 Map I12 THE BAZAAR BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS /SOMNI > Spanish $$$$ Star chef José Andrés brings a whimsical Spanish-style dining experience to SLS Beverly Hills. Somni is billed as a “multi-sensory culinary experience” with a 20-pluscourse tasting menu. Purchase tickets at exploretock.com.
The Bazaar: D (W-Su). Somni: D (Tu-Sa). 465 La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.246.5555, Somni 310.246.5543 Map H16 CATTLE & CLAW > American $$ Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills’ laid-back restaurant is a casual-cool spot where diners can enjoy two of the world’s favorite foods: lobsters and burgers. Pair with cocktails served in Mason jars. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 8555 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.770.1654 Map I12 NOBU > Japanese $$$$ Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s flagship offers a menu of traditional and avant-garde sushi, including dishes with Peruvian accents. D (nightly). 903 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.657.5711 Map H12 THE STINKING ROSE > Steak $$ True to its motto, “We season our garlic with food,” this Restaurant Row mainstay offers eclectic, garlicky menu options and premium steaks. L, D (daily). 55 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.652.7673 Map I12 YARDBIRD SOUTHERN TABLE & BAR > Southern $$$ This fried-chicken favorite at the Beverly Center is popular for its made-from-scratch regional Southern fare and cocktails. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8500 Beverly Blvd., Suite 112, L.A., 323.250.8034 Map I12
MALIBU DUKE’S MALIBU > Seafood $$ Named after the father of international surfing, Duke Kahanamoku, this restaurant features oceanfront views, a daily selection of fresh fish and tropical cocktails. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.0777 Map west of K7 GEOFFREY’S > Seafood $$$ Every table in the house here has a panoramic view of the ocean. Enjoy creative seafood dishes on arguably the prettiest patio in paradise. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 27400 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.457.1519 Map west of K7 MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB > Seafood $$$$ At this on-the-waterfront eatery, starters like ahi tartare and caviar are followed by Maine lobster and expertly prepared steaks. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.454.4357 Map west of K7 NOBU MALIBU > Japanese $$$$ Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s coastal restaurant attracts celebrities, as well as serious foodies. Indulge in an extensive menu of traditional and avant-garde sushi. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.9140 Map west of K7
MARINA DEL REY CAFE DEL REY > Seafood $$$ Ogle impressive pleasure boats in the marina at this waterfront restaurant with plentiful fresh catch, a raw bar and prime cuts of steak. It recently unveiled a new menu and look. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 4451 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.823.6395 Map N9
PASADENA / GLENDALE ALEXANDER’S STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$$ This ultraluxurious interpretation of the classic American steakhouse incorporates Asian influences. Certified Angus beef and domestic and imported wagyu star on the menu. D (nightly). 111 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, 626.486.1111 Map Q20 DIN TAI FUNG > Chinese $$ Foodies line up at this dumpling house for soup dumplings with filling combinations such as pork and crab or truffle and pork. Vegetable dishes like cucumber salad and sautéed string beans are also favorites.
BONJWING LEE
PETIT TROIS > French $$$ Trois Mec’s neighboring, French-bar-style spinoff offers an à la carte menu of classic dishes such as a confit-fried chicken leg, croque monsieur and delectable omelet with Boursin cheese. A newer, larger outpost also opened in the Valley. L, D (daily). 718 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.468.8916 Map H13
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MICHAEL’S > California $$$ Michael McCarty’s influential restaurant, opened in 1979, is refreshed and back in the spotlight. D (M-Sa). 1147 3rd St., Santa Monica, 310.451.0843 Map L8 MILO & OLIVE > Pizza $$ The team from Rustic Canyon is behind this casual pizzeria and bakery. Expect to make friends with your neighbors; seating is at communal tables and the bar only. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2723 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.453.6776 Map K9
Pasta at Michael’s
L, D (daily). The Americana at Brand, 177 Caruso Ave., Glendale, 818.551.5561; Westfield Santa Anita, 400 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, 626.446.8588; 1108 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, 626.574.7068 Map U23, R23 (2) YANG CHOW > Chinese $$ Fine Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine has made this local chain a mainstay since 1977. Don’t miss the Slippery Shrimp, which have been featured on Food Network. L, D (daily). 3777 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.432.6868 Map Q22
SANTA MONICA 1 PICO > California $$$ This upscale oceanfront dining venue recently relaunched with a new chef and menu focusing on California coastal cuisine. Pair with a handcrafted cocktail or selection from the extensive wine list. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). Shutters on the Beach, 1 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.587.1717 Map M8 BIRDIE G’S > American $$$ James Beard Award-nominated chef Jeremy Fox’s newest restaurant boasts a large menu of regional American cuisine, served in a former art museum within Santa Monica’s historic gallery complex Bergamot Station. D (nightly). 2421 Michigan Ave., Santa Monica, 310.310.3616 Map L9 BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE > Seafood $$$ Putting a “California twist on East Hampton summer lobster bakes,” this restaurant near the Santa Monica Pier specializes in dishes such as oysters on the half shell and lobster rolls. L, D (daily). 1355 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.576.3474 Map L8 BOA STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$ Way hip, way fine steakhouse. Steak rubs and dips; out-there cocktails on a revamped bar menu. L (M-F), D (nightly). 101 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.899.4466 Map M8 CASSIA > Eclectic/Fusion $$$ This Southeast Asian-inspired brasserie, set inside a 1930s art deco building, finds chef Bryant Ng serving dishes like Vietnamese pot-au-feu and grilled pork-belly vermicelli. Esters Wine Shop & Bar is adjacent. D (nightly). 1314 7th St., Santa Monica, 310.393.6699 Map L8 DIALOGUE > California $$$$ James Beard Award-winning chef Dave Beran is behind this 18-seat restaurant. One market-driven 18- to 20-course tasting menu is offered; tickets must be prepurchased online. D (Tu-Su). Gallery Food Hall, 1315 3rd St. Promenade, Second Floor, Santa Monica, dialoguerestaurant.com Map L8 ENTERPRISE FISH CO. > Seafood $$ Established in 1979, this restaurant is a local
RUSTIC CANYON > California $$$ Discover boutique wines while sampling small plates of market-driven, Mediterranean-inspired fare. Clam pozole is just one of the winners. Hide in a cozy booth or mingle at the communal table. D (nightly). 1119 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.393.7050 Map L8 YE OLDE KING’S HEAD > British/Irish $$ Cozy pub/restaurant with traditional English fare, like the acclaimed fish and chips. B, L, D (daily); high tea (M-Sa). 116 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.451.1402 Map L8
SOUTH BAY / LONG BEACH DIN TAI FUNG > Chinese $$ Foodies line up at this dumpling house for soup dumplings with filling combinations such as pork and crab or truffle and pork. Vegetable dishes like cucumber salad and sautéed string beans are also favorites. L, D (daily). Del Amo Fashion Center, 21540 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 519, Torrance, 310.214.1175 Map D2 FISHING WITH DYNAMITE > Seafood $$$ Chef David LeFevre (the Arthur J, M.B. Post) loads his menu with East Coast inspirations here. Among the old-school small plates in this charming restaurant are Maryland blue-crab cakes. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1148 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.893.6299 Map L13 ISE-SHIMA > Japanese $$ Located in the Miyako Hybrid Hotel in Old Town Torrance, Ise-Shima provides fresh sushi and other exciting Japanese dishes, recalling the array of seafood and marine delicacies Japan’s Ise Shima region offers. B, L, D (daily). 21381 S. Western Ave., Torrance, 310.320.6700 Map M14 LITTLE SISTER > Pan-Asian $$ Signatures at chef Tin Vuong’s pan-Asian spots include Balinese fried meatballs and salt-and-pepper lobster. M.B.: L (F-Su), D (nightly). R.B.: L, D (daily). 1131 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.2096; 247 Avenida del Norte, Redondo Beach, 424.398.0237 Map L13, M13 LOVE & SALT > California $$$ Dine on creative Cal-Italian fare in this buzzy spot. Chef de cuisine/pastry chef Rebecca Merhej’s desserts are divine. D (nightly), Br (Su). 317 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5252 Map L13 M.B. POST > American $$$ Chef David LeFevre serves small plates of seafood, freshbaked breads, delectable vegetables, cured meats and more in the space of a former post office. L (F-Su), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1142 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5405 Map L13 SAUSAL > Mexican/Latin $$ This stylish El Segundo restaurant serves nuevo-rancho cuisine by chef Anne Conness, with an emphasis on wood fire, smoke and slow-roasting methods; Mexican and Spanish flavors; and locally sourced produce. L, D (daily). 219 Main St., El Segundo, 310.322.2721 Map L13
THE STRAND HOUSE > California $$$ This beachside restaurant boasts awesome ocean and pier views and a stylish bar. Executive chef Austin Cobb’s menu highlights coastal California cuisine. L (Tu-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.7470 Map L13
VALLEY ASANEBO > Japanese $$$$ Hidden in a strip mall but Michelin-rated, this cozy sushi bar and restaurant offers memorable sushi and inventive fare like seared toro and uni tempura in shiso leaf. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 11941 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.760.3348 Map A1 CASTAWAY > American $$$ Burbank’s fine-dining restaurant boasts expansive views of the Valley, plus a new design and steak-forward menu from Cutthroat Kitchen winner Perry Pollaci. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1250 E. Harvard Road, Burbank, 818.848.6691 Map north of W21 THE GRILL ON THE ALLEY > Steak $$$ The Grill is a venerable industry hangout, where polished waiters deliver steaks, Cobb salads and other oldschool fare. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 120 E. Promenade Way, Westlake Village, 805.418.1760 Map west of A1 JOAN’S ON THIRD > American $$ This celebrity-frequented café offers omelets, sandwiches, salads, soups and sweets, plus picnic baskets and gourmet items. B, L, D (daily). 12059 Ventura Place, Studio City, 818.201.3900 Map T18 PETIT TROIS > French $$$ Trois Mec’s French-bar-style spinoff offers an à la carte menu of classic dishes such as a confit-fried chicken leg, croque monsieur and delectable omelet with Boursin cheese. B, L, D (daily). 13705 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818.989.2600 Map G10
VENICE FELIX TRATTORIA > Italian $$$ Chef Evan Funke’s trattoria boasts an open kitchen and a glass-enclosed, temperature-controlled pasta laboratorio where Funke’s masterpieces take shape before diners’ eyes. D (nightly). 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 424.387.8622 Map M9 GJELINA > Mediterranean $$$ Cal-Med small plates and pizzas are served to chic Westsiders here. It’s one of Venice’s most popular restaurants and the neighborhood’s liveliest patio. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1429 Map N9 MTN > Japanese $$$ At this California izakaya, foodies perch on bar stools to slurp up bowls of housemade ramen. L, D (daily). 1305 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 424.465.3313 Map N9 NIGHT + MARKET > Thai $$ For acclaimed Thai food, head to the WeHo, Silver Lake (Night + Market Song) or Venice outpost (Night + Market Sahm) of this hip spot from L.A.-born chef Kris Yenbamroong. L (W-F), D (W-M). 2533 Lincoln Blvd., Venice, 310.301.0333 Map M9 (V) PLANT FOOD + WINE > California $$$ This restaurant from Matthew Kenney takes a raw, locally sourced and plant-based approach to dining. Choose a table on the lovely patio sheltered by olive trees. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from an extensive organic and biodynamic selection. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1009 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1009 Map N9 WURSTKÜCHE > Quick Bites $ Don’t even try to pronounce it—”the sausage place” will do. Bar/restaurant offers thick-cut Belgian fries and a
LONGRADA LOR PHOTOGRAPHY
favorite when it comes to seafood. Wild-caught fish, fresh seafood and steaks are cooked over a mesquite charcoal grill. L, D (daily). 174 Kinney St., Santa Monica, 310.392.8366 Map M9
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Ye Olde King’s Head
World Famous British Pub, Restaurant, Shoppe & Bakery repertory of exotic franks: rattlesnake and rabbit, buffalo with Luxardo cherries and mint. Open late. L, D (daily). 625 Lincoln Blvd., Venice, 213.687.4444 Map M9
WEST HOLLYWOOD BOA STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$$ Way hip, way fine steakhouse on the Sunset Strip. Steak rubs and dips; out-there cocktails on a revamped bar menu. L (M-F), D (nightly). 9200 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2050 Map H12 DAN TANA’S > Italian $$$ New York-style restaurant, an L.A. classic for over 50 years. Red-sauced pastas, huge steaks. Reservations required. D (nightly). 9071 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.275.9444 Map I11 DELILAH > American $$$ This celebrity-favored restaurant/lounge from the H.Wood Group pays homage to the Roaring ‘20s and offers a menu of classic and modern American cuisine. Reservation-only. D (Tu-Su). 7969 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.745.0600 Map H12
British Fare, imported beers and world famous Fish & Chips.
FIG & OLIVE > Mediterranean $$$ Inspired by Provence, France, and Mediterranean culinary heritage, this restaurant’s cuisine is an ode to olive oil. Don’t miss the paella noir or the Moroccan free-range chicken. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8490 Melrose Place, West Hollywood, 310.360.9100 Map I12
Heated patio. 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. Open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner Weekdays 9 am | Weekends 8 am Happy Hour Afternoon Tea Karaoke Trivia Live Soccer
Mon-Thurs 4-7 pm; Fri 4-8 pm Mon-Sat 11:30 am-4 pm Sun 9 pm Every Wed 8 pm Check Schedule
116 Santa Monica Blvd. Santa Monica (310) 451-1402 www.yeoldekingshead.com
KATANA > Japanese $$$ Sunset Strip restaurant with a sushi bar and robata-style cuisine: open-flame-grilled meat, vegetables, seafood on skewers. Stylish rooms, patio. D (nightly). 8439 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.650.8585 Map H12 NIGHT + MARKET > Thai $$ For acclaimed Thai food, head to the WeHo, Silver Lake (Night + Market Song) or Venice outpost (Night + Market Sahm) of this hip spot from L.A.-born chef Kris Yenbamroong. L (Tu-Th), D (Tu-Su). 9043 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.275.9724 Map I12 ROKU > Japanese $$$ This Sunset Strip hot spot from the team behind Sushi Roku presents elevated teppanyaki prepared at interactive grill tables, as well as sushi and inventive omakase offerings. L (M-F), D (nightly). 9201 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2060 Map H12 TESSE > French $$$ Raphael Francois is in the kitchen at Bill Chait’s new restaurant, serving classic French delights updated for 21st-century L.A. Don’t miss pastry chef Sally Camacho Mueller’s soufflé for dessert. D (nightly), Br (SaSu). 8500 W. Sunset Blvd., Suite B, West Hollywood, 310.360.3866 Map H12
WESTSIDE THE APPLE PAN > Quick Bites $$ Move quickly to grab a seat at the counter of this tiny joint, open since 1927. Burger aficionados wax on about the classic, drippy Steakburger and Hickoryburger. Cash only. Open late. L, D (Tu-Su). 10801 W. Pico Blvd., West L.A., 310.475.3585 Map K10 STK > Steak $$$ The One Group’s renowned steakhouse at the W hotel in Westwood offers starters like tuna tartare, followed by signature savory steaks and seafood platters for the table. D (nightly). W Los Angeles—West Beverly Hills, 930 Hilgard Ave., L.A., 310.659.3535 Map J10
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THE GUIDE / ENTERTAINMENT SPECIAL EVENTS
TCM CLASSIC FILM FESTIVAL April 16-19 View classic films on the big screen at iconic Hollywood venues—oftentimes with the people who made them. This year’s theme is Grand Illusions: Fantastic Worlds on Film. See screenings of films including Back to the Future, Key Largo and The Wizard of Oz. Check website for schedule. Film critic and historian Leonard Maltin is receiving the Robert Osborne Award. Festival passes $349-$2,449; individual tickets $10-$30, sold on a firstcome, first-served standby basis at the venue box offices just prior to program start times. Children under 4 not admitted. Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, 7000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood; TCL Chinese Theatre Imax, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood; TCL Chinese 6 Theatres Multiplex, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood; Egyptian Theatre, 6712 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood; Legion Theater at Post 43, 2035 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 877.826.5764, filmfestival.tcm.com Map H13 ACURA GRAND PRIX OF LONG BEACH April 17-19 Expect car races, concerts, a Grand Prix 5K run and a Family Fun Zone with rock-climbing walls, games and racing simulators, plus a Lifestyle Expo featuring green technology, at this popular annual event. Check website for schedule. One-day admission $34-$95; three-day pass $85-$155. 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, 888.827.7333, gplb.com Map 016 RENEGADE CRAFT FAIR April 18-19 This celebration of the maker spirit features over 260 artisans selling their wares, plus local food trucks and craft cocktails. 11 am-6 pm. Free. Los Angeles State Historic Park, 1245 N. Spring St., L.A., renegadecraft.com Map G17 TASTE OF THE EASTSIDE April 26 Tenth annual food and drink festival showcases culinary hot spots and buzzworthy newcomers from neighborhoods such as Silver Lake, Echo Park, Los Feliz and Atwater Village, with proceeds benefiting local nonprofits. Taste dishes and drinks from participants including Bar Calo, Bar Avalon, Café Birdie and Greenbar Craft Distillery. 4-8 pm; VIP 3-8 pm. General admission $55-$65; VIP $90$100; kids 2-12 $15-$30, under 2 free. Los Angeles River Center & Gardens, 570 W. Ave. 26, L.A., tasteoftheeastside.com Map north of G17 ROOFTOP CINEMA CLUB All month The U.K.’s “Number One Outdoor Cinema Series” returns to the rooftops of Hollywood’s private NeueHouse and downtown’s Level for its sixth season in L.A. Enjoy street food and drinks while you take in views and watch acclaimed films and recent hits. Highlights this month include an April Fool’s Day screening of Wedding Crashers and a screening of Selena on April 16, the late singer’s birthday. See website for full schedule. Ages 21+ at NeueHouse,
20 CENTURY
LEGENDS
Index Studio Tours................ 53
Theater........................ 50
Museums..................... 54
Music + Dance.............. 51
Shopping....................... 56
Sports.......................... 51
Explore......................... 56 NIV AN
Attractions................... 52
ER S
AR Y
Special Events............. 50
TH
MASTERS OF TASTE April 5 This premier food and beverage festival—celebrating its fifth anniversary this year—lets you stroll the 50-yard line at the iconic Rose Bowl while feasting on fare from some of L.A.’s top chefs and restaurants (including Castaway, Otoño and Salazar), sipping handcrafted cocktails and tasting offerings from California wineries and local craft breweries. This year’s event will be hosted by chef Vanda Asapahu of Ayara Thai Cusine. All proceeds benefit Union Station Homeless Services. 21+. 4-7 pm; VIP 3-7 pm. $105; VIP $165. Rose Bowl, 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena, 626.240.4550, mastersoftastela.com Map P18
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.
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BREWERY ARTWALK April 4-5 This biannual art walk takes place in what organizers claim is the world’s largest art complex, which is inside a former Pabst Blue Ribbon brewery. Browse the personal studios of more than 100 resident artists. There’s also a restaurant on-site. 11 am-6 pm. Free. 2100 N. Main St., L.A., 323.638.9382, breweryartwalk.com Map east of G17
18+ at Level. $17-$25. 6121 Sunset Blvd., L.A.; 888 S. Olive St., downtown, rooftopcinemaclub.com/ los-angeles/ Map W21, I16
THEATER BERNHARDT/HAMLET Opening April 7 This comedy by Theresa Rebeck puts the spotlight on Sarah Bernhardt, a woman who challenged whether a woman’s place was “to be or not to be” in the greatest role ever written: Hamlet. Gil Cates Theater, Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., L.A., 310.208.5454 Map J10
A Pointer Sister Collection
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF ICON FASHION
WARDROBE DESIGNS COSTUMES MEMORABILIA AND CULTURE
ONCE ON THIS ISLAND Opening April 7 The 2018 Tony Award winner for best musical revival tells the tale of Ti Moune, a fearless peasant girl who sets out on a journey guided by the mighty island gods to risk it all for love. Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772 Map H16 MAN OF GOD Through April 12 This feminist thriller follows four girls on a mission trip to Thailand who seek revenge when they discover their pastor has been violating their privacy. Audrey Skirball Kenis Theater, Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., L.A., 310.208.5454 Map J10
BACK TO THE FUTURE TRILOGY: THE EXHIBIT
THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL Through April 12 Nickelodeon’s beloved cartoon series comes to life onstage in this family-friendly musical about SpongeBob and all of his Bikini Bottom friends. Dolby Theatre, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.308.6300 Map H13 THE ILLUSIONISTS—LIVE FROM BROADWAY April 14-19 The world’s best-selling magic show showcases the jaw-dropping talents of some of the most incredible illusionists on earth. Dolby Theatre, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.308.6300 Map H13 BLOCK PARTY 2020 Through April 19 This fourth-annual celebration of the L.A. theater scene spotlights two productions from local theater companies. Canyon (Iama Theatre Company) runs April 8-19. Kirk Douglas Theatre, 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 213.628.2772 Map L11
THANK YOU TO THE FILMS’ PRODUCER, WRITER AND CO-CREATOR, BOB GALE FOR HIS PARTICIPATION IN THIS HISTORIC EXHIBIT
THE FIRST EVER “BACK TO THE FUTURE” TRILOGY EXHIBIT IN THE USA
THE ANTIPODES Through April 26 Pulitzer Prize winner Annie Baker makes her debut at the Mark Taper with her most recent work, which is “part satire, part sacred rite.” Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772 Map H16 MEAN GIRLS Opening April 28 Tina Fey’s hilarious Broadway smash hit—based on the oft-quoted, Lindsay Lohan-starring film of the same name—arrives in Hollywood. Dolby Theatre, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.308.6300 Map H13
> The blinking light atop the Capitol Records Building spells out “Hollywood” in Morse code. 50 SOCALPULSE.COM
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ENTERTAINMENT
CRUISE LIKE A LOCAL Seize the day the SoCal way! Find fun & sun-filled cruises in LA or Orange County, even in winter.
HAMILTON All month The national tour production of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway hit returns to L.A. with its brilliant raps about founding father Alexander Hamilton. Catch it through Nov. 22. Hollywood Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.468.1770 Map H13
MUSIC + DANCE CENTER FOR THE ART OF PERFORMANCE AT UCLA April 3-4 Seeds, A Porte Parole Documentary Theatre Production (Freud Playhouse). April 17 Jennifer Koh & Davóne Tines: Everything That Rises Must Converge. April 25 Anthony De Mare: Liaisons 2020: Re-imagining Sondheim From the Piano. Royce Hall, 340 Royce Drive, L.A., 310.825.2101 Map J10 DOROTHY CHANDLER PAVILION April 17-19 Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch: Palermo Palermo. 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.7211 Map H16 THE FORUM April 3-5 Billie Eilish: Where Do We Go? World Tour. April 17-18, 24 Eagles. April 21 Five Finger Death Punch. April 25 Soda Stereo: Gracias Totales. April 26 Ateez World Tour the Fellowship: Map the Treasure. 3900 W. Manchester Blvd., Inglewood, 310.330.7300 Map O12
Book online at Hornblower.com/WhereLA 855.290.0383
STAPLES CENTER April 2-3 Celine Dion: Courage World Tour. April 10 POWER 106 & Nick Cannon Mornings Presents: MTV Wild ’N Out Live, with DC Young Fly, Emmanuel Hudson, Justina Valentine, Hitman Holla, Karlous Miller, Pretty Vee, DJ D-Wrek, Conceited. April 17 Krush Groove Festival, with Ice Cube, Redman & Method Man, E-40, Too Short, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Paul Wall & Slim Thug, Tha Dogg Pound, Petey Pablo, Yung Joc, Suga Free. 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.742.7100 Map I15 THE THEATRE AT ACE HOTEL April 2-3 Nathaniel Rateliff. April 11 CAP UCLA presents: John Cameron Mitchell: The Origin of Love Tour, with special guest Amber Martin. April 18 CAP UCLA presents: Perla Batalla: Discoteca Batalla. April 21 Letterkenny Live! April 23-24 Little Big Town—Nightfall. April 29 A Pizza Me—Adore Delano Live. 929 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.623.3233 Map I16
Connect with wildlife at the L.A. Zoo!
Enjoy amazing up-close views of otters, gorillas, jaguars, stingrays, and more, plus interactive experiences like flamingo encounters. Around here, fun just comes naturally. Open daily. Free parking.
WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL April 2-4 Adès Conducts Adès, with Los Angeles Philharmonic, conductor Thomas Adès, pianist Kirill Gerstein. April 5 Wayne Shorter Celebration, Ambrose Akinmusire—Origami Harvest, with members of the Wayne Shorter Quartet. April 8 Boston Baroque, with conductor Martin Pearlman, soprano Yulia Van Doren. April 9-11 Symphonie fantastique, with L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Rafael Payare, violinist Gil Shaham. April 14 Marvels From Eastern Europe, with members of the L.A. Philharmonic. April 15 Chineke! Orchestra, with conductor Kevin John Edusei, pianist Stewart Goodyear. April 16-18 Prokofiev & Shostakovich, with L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Karina Canellakis, violinist Nicola Benedetti. April 19 Maria Schneider Orchestra, Anat Cohen Tentet. April 21 Du Yun & David Bloom, with L.A. Phil New Music Group. April 22 Colburn Orchestra, with conductor Marin Alsop. April 24-26 The Planets, with L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Susanna Mälkki, Los Angeles Master Chorale, artistic director Grant Gershon. 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 323.850.2000 Map H16
SPORTS BANC OF CALIFORNIA STADIUM April 18 Los Angeles Football Club vs. Real Salt Lake. 3939 S. Figueroa St., Exposition Park, L.A., 323.648.6060 Map K15
e parking.
Don’t miss SPRING FLING at the L.A. Zoo! March 21 – April 19 Details at LAZoo.org/SpringFling
DIGNITY HEALTH SPORTS PARK April 4 Los Angeles Galaxy vs. Sporting KC. April 5 XFL: Los Angeles Wildcats vs. Seattle Dragons. April 15 Galaxy II vs. Reno 1868 FC. April 25 Galaxy vs. Houston Dynamo. April 26 Galaxy II vs. Las Vegas Lights FC. 18400 Avalon Blvd., Carson, 310.630.2000 Map M15
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ATTRACTIONS DODGER STADIUM April 1 Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Colorado Rockies. April 10-12 Dodgers vs. Washington Nationals. April 14-16 Dodgers vs. St. Louis Cardinals. April 17-19 Dodgers vs. Pittsburgh Pirates. April 28-29 Dodgers vs. Minnesota Twins. 1000 Vin Scully Ave., L.A., 323.224.1507 Map G17 STAPLES CENTER April 1 Los Angeles Lakers vs. Indiana Pacers. April 4 Los Angeles Clippers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder; Los Angeles Kings vs. Dallas Stars. April 5 Lakers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder. April 6 Clippers vs. Chicago Bulls. April 7 Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors. April 8 Lakers vs. Chicago Bulls. April 9 Lakers vs. Clippers. April 11 Clippers vs. Golden State Warriors. April 12 Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves. April 13 Clippers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves. April 14 Lakers vs. Sacramento Kings. 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.742.7100 Map I15
ATTRACTIONS AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC Focus is on Pacific Ocean sea life. Touch the ocean’s predators in Shark Lagoon and jellies in the Wonders of the Deep gallery, and meet penguins, sea lions and 11,000 other animals. Daily 9 am-6 pm. $24.95-$34.95, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map O16 DISNEYLAND Mickey Mouse’s theme park. Attractions include Pirates of the Caribbean and new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Disney California Adventure is adjacent. Call for hours. $104-$154, under 3 free. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map D6 DOLBY THEATRE Tour the home of the Academy Awards, which rolls out 500 feet of red carpet each year for the Oscars. M-Sa 10 am-5 pm; Su 10 am-4 pm. $18$23, under 3 free. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.308.6300 Map H13 GRAND PARK Urban park positioned between the Music Center and City Hall offers draws such as a farmers market and community entertainment. Daily 5:30 am10 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 GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY Iconic attraction with spectacular views of L.A. and the Hollywood sign. Hourly shows at planetarium. Tu-F noon-10 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-10 pm. Admission free; planetarium shows $3-$7, under 5 free. 2800 E. Observatory Road, Griffith Park, L.A., 213.473.0800 Map U23
PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM
One of California’s most beautiful and unique destinations! For information on our upcoming special exhibits visit
ReaganLibrary.com
Tour Through Air Force One 27000
View a Full Scale Replica of the Oval Office
Touch a Real Piece of the Berlin Wall
40 Presidential Drive • Simi Valley, CA 93065 • 805.522.2977 • ReaganLibrary.com
ON EXHIBIT
JANUARY 26–APRIL 10
L.A. LIVE Entertainment center is home to the Grammy Museum, Microsoft Theater and the Novo by Microsoft, restaurants, high-tech bowling lanes and nightspots such as the Conga Room. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.763.5483 Map I15 LOS ANGELES ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDENS Home to more than 250 animal species, many of them endangered, living among immersive habitats and lush gardens. Daily 10 am-5 pm. Ticket sales cease one hour before closing. $16-$21, under 2 free. 5333 Zoo Drive, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.644.4200 Map T23 MADAME TUSSAUDS HOLLYWOOD Get closer to the stars at this world-famous, interactive attraction in Hollywood. Find over 125 figures including celebrities and pop icons, plus 4-D and VR adventures. Daily 10 am-10 pm. $16.99–$30.95, under 3 free. 6933 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.798.1670 Map H13 ORIGINAL FARMERS MARKET Local landmark established in 1934 boasts 120 produce stalls, restaurants and gift shops in open-air setting. Adjacent to the Grove shopping center. 6333 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.933.9211 Map I13 OUE SKYSPACE LA California’s tallest open-air observation deck, at nearly 1,000 feet above the city,
OBJECTS
FROM THE
CONCENTRATION CAMPS Photographs by Richard Wiesel
LOS ANGELES MUSEUM OF THE HOLOCAUST
100 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles • lamoth.org • Admission always free
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ATTRACTIONS boasts 360-degree views and a 45-foot-long glass “Skyslide“ from the 70th to the 69th floor. 633 W. 5th St., downtown, 213.894.9000 Map I16 QUEEN MARY Historic ocean liner permanently berthed in Long Beach Harbor offers tours, shops, a hotel, an art deco lounge, a 4-D theater and restaurants. Check queenmary.com for a schedule of special events, hours and prices. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 877.342.0738 Map O16 RONALD REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM Visit the Air Force One Pavilion and see a full-size replica of the White House Oval Office. Daily 10 am-5 pm. $15-$25, under 2 free. 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, 800.410.8354 Map northwest of A1 SEAWORLD The 189-acre adventure park features thousands of marine animals including fish, reptiles and birds. Open daily; call for hours, ticket packages and discounts. $89.99, under 3 free. Parking $17-$30. 500 SeaWorld Drive, San Diego, 619.222.4732 TCL CHINESE THEATRE Historic, meticulously restored Hollywood movie palace (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre) with Imax screen and walkway of stars’ handprints and footprints in the forecourt. Visit tclchinesetheatres.com or call for movie schedule. 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.461.3331 Map H13 UNIVERSAL CITYWALK Dining, shopping and entertainment promenade includes eateries such as Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville and Voodoo Doughnut; clothing boutiques and novelty stores; a state-of-the-art Universal Cinema and Imax theater; and simulated skydiving wind tunnel iFly Hollywood. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.4455 Map U20 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD Moviebased theme park. Attractions include the new Jurassic World—The Ride; the Wizarding World of Harry Potter; and the Simpsons Ride. Studio Tour includes Peter Jackson’s King Kong 360 3-D and film and TV sets. Call or check website for hours and prices. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 800.864.8377, universalstudioshollywood.com Map U20
STUDIO TOURS PARAMOUNT PICTURES STUDIO TOUR Group tours of Hollywood’s longest-operating major studio. Reservations recommended. See website for schedule. Studio Tour $58, under 10 not admitted; VIP Tour $178, under 10 not admitted; After Dark Tour $78, under 16 not admitted. 5515 Melrose Ave., Hollywood, 323.956.1777, paramountstudiotour.com Map I14 SONY PICTURES STUDIO TOUR Two-hour walking tour of working motion-picture studio includes stages where TV shows and movies were filmed. Reservations, photo ID required. M-W, F 9:30 am-2:30 pm; Th 9:30 am-6 pm. $50, under 12 not admitted. VIP Tours also available, starting at $130. Parking free. 10202 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.244.8687 Map L11 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD Legendary studio tour (also see listing under “Attractions“). VIP Experience includes front-of-line privileges, an expert tour guide, a gourmet lunch, visits to the Will & Grace set and other perks. For hours and prices, call or check universalstudioshollywood.com. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.3801 Map U20 WARNER BROS. STUDIO TOUR HOLLYWOOD Three-hour tour of working TV and film studio includes backlots, the real Friends Central Perk set and observation of filming (when possible). Sets from The Big Bang Theory were recently added to the Stage 48: Script to Screen interactive soundstage. Deluxe tour available. Reservations recommended; photo ID required. Daily 8:30 am-4 pm. $55-$68, under 8 not admitted. Parking $12. 3400 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank, 877.492.8687 Map U20
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ATTRACTIONS MUSEUMS THE ANNENBERG SPACE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY Cultural venue dedicated to digital and print photography. W, F-Su 11 am-6 pm; Th 11 am-5 pm. Free. Parking $3.50, $1 after 4:30 pm and all day Sa-Su. 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Century City, 213.403.3000 Map J11 AUTRY MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN WEST Museum explores the art, history and cultures of the American West and houses one of the top U.S. collections of Native American materials. Tu-F 10 am-4 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-5 pm. $6-$14, under 3 free. 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.667.2000 Map H14 THE BROAD Museum built by philanthropists and art collectors Eli and Edythe Broad contains more than 2,000 works of contemporary art. Tu-W 11 am-5 pm; Th-F 11 am-8 pm; Sa 10 am-8 pm; Su 10 am-6 pm. Free. Online reservations encouraged. 221 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.232.6200 Map H16 CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER Interactive exhibits for budding scientists; Imax theater. Daily 10 am-5 pm. Permanent gallery, free; admission for Imax varies. Parking $12, $15 after 5 pm. Cash only. 700 Exposition Park Drive, Exposition Park, L.A., 323.724.3623 Map K15 GETTY CENTER Travertine-clad hilltop facility houses collections of paintings, drawings, antiquities, photographs and decorative arts. Fabulous Central Garden and city views. Tu-F, Su 10 am-5:30 pm; Sa 10 am-9 pm. Free. Parking $15, $10 after 3 pm. 1200 Getty Center Drive, L.A., 310.440.7300 Map H9 GETTY VILLA Getty Center’s exquisite coastal counterpart features Etruscan, Roman and Greek antiquities. W-M 10 am-5 pm. Free. Parking $15, $10 after 3 pm. Advance timed tickets required for entry. 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades, 310.440.7300 Map K7
MUSEUM OF TOLERANCE www.museumoftolerance.com
9786 west pico boulevard los angeles, ca 90035 t: 310.772.2506
GRAMMY MUSEUM Museum on L.A. Live campus explores music, the creative and recording processes and Grammy Awards history. Su-M, W-Th 10:30 am-6:30 pm; F-Sa 10 am-8 pm. $10.95-$12.95, under 6 free. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.765.6800 Map I15 HAMMER MUSEUM UCLA-affiliated museum presents influential traveling shows and installations alongside its permanent collection. Tu-F 11 am-8 pm; Sa-Su 11 am-5 pm. Free. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 310.443.7000 Map J10 HOLLYWOOD MUSEUM In the historic Max Factor Building, steps from the Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Museum houses 10,000 authentic showbiz treasures that showcase 100 years of Hollywood’s entertainment industry. W-Su 10 am-5 pm. $5-$15. 1660 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.464.7776 Map H13
NATURE, ART, CULTURE 626-405-2240 | Pasadena-adjacent Tours@huntington.org
HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART MUSEUM, AND BOTANICAL GARDENS Art, buildings and grounds, with more than a dozen themed gardens; several dining concepts; a beautiful gallery; and an education and visitor center. W-M 10 am-5 pm. $13-$29, under 4 free. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, 626.405.2141 Map R21 LA BREA TAR PITS AND MUSEUM Watch paleontologists at work uncovering ice age L.A. Among the main attractions are the ever-bubbling tar pits, which make up the world’s most famous fossil-excavation site. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. $7-$15, under 3 free. 5801 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.934.7243 Map J13 LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART The largest art museum in the western U.S., with diverse, superb collections housed on a 20-acre campus. Chris Burden’s Urban Light installation welcomes museumgoers. M-Tu, Th 11 am-5 pm; F 11 am-8 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-7 pm. $16-$25, under 18 free. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6000 Map J13
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DATE : 07.0 1.2 0 2 0
BOOK ONLINE AND SAVE a© & TM WBEI.
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EXPLORE
NATALE E LOS ANGELES MUSEUM OF THE HOLOCAUST The West Coast’s largest collection of Holocaust-era artifacts housed in an award-winning architectural building. Interactive exhibits, public tours and Holocaust survivor talks. Sa-Th 10 am-5 pm; F 10 am-2 pm. Free. Pan Pacific Park, 100 The Grove Drive, L.A., 323.651.3704 Map I13
SANTA MONICA PLACE Sleek outdoor mall at the south end of Third Street Promenade anchored by Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. More than 80 boutiques, including Lorna Jane and Rimowa, plus a rooftop Dining Deck and ArcLight Cinemas. 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, 310.394.1049 Map L8
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART Premier contemporary art museum housed in two facilities: MOCA Grand Avenue and the Geffen Contemporary, which displays exhibitions in a former police-car warehouse. M, W, F 11 am-6 pm; Th 11 am-8 pm; Sa-Su 11 am-5 pm. Free. MOCA Grand Avenue, 250 S. Grand Ave., downtown; The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, 152 N. Central Ave., downtown, 213.626.6222 Map H16, H17
SOUTH COAST PLAZA High-end center in Orange County boasts nearly 300 boutiques (Chanel, Gucci, Alexander McQueen and Givenchy) and 40 restaurants, including Water Grill. Concierge at four locations. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map E6
MUSEUM OF TOLERANCE Exhibits on prejudice and discrimination, legacy of the Holocaust, humanrights issues and Anne Frank’s life and legacy. Su-F 10 am-5 pm. $11.50-$15.50. Anne: $12.50-$15.50. Under 5 free. 9786 W. Pico Blvd., L.A., 310.772.2506 Map J11 NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY Thirty-three million objects, from dinosaur fossils to fish. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. $5-$12, under 3 free. 900 Exposition Blvd., Exposition Park, L.A., 213.763.3466 Map K15
SHOPPING THE AMERICANA AT BRAND Downtown Glendale hot spot from the creators of the Grove with a Main Street, U.S.A., atmosphere and a trolley. Toms and & Other Stories are among the 90 or so stores. Dining options include Din Tai Fung and Bourbon Steak. 889 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.637.8900 Map U23 BEVERLY CENTER Trendsetting mall just completed a multimillion-dollar renovation. It has more than 100 boutiques (Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana) and is anchored by Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s. New dining options include Angler, Farmhouse and Yardbird Southern Table & Bar. 8500 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.854.0070 Map I12 THE BLOC This vibrant open-air urban center encompasses a full city block along L.A.’s iconic 7th Street corridor and boasts exciting dining (Joey DTLA, District), shopping (Macy’s, Uniqlo) and entertainment (Alamo Drafthouse Cinema) options. 700 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.454.4926, theblocla.com Map I16 CITADEL OUTLETS Assyrian architecture south of downtown stands out along the Golden State (5) Freeway; the center offers discounted clothes from Coach, Levi’s and Converse, to name just a few. 100 Citadel Drive, L.A., 323.888.1724 Map B4 THE GROVE Outdoor center is home to 40 shops and restaurants including 189 by Dominique Ansel, all in a setting inspired by a grand old downtown. The movie theater, trolley and dancing fountain are additional draws. Adjacent to Original Farmers Market. 189 The Grove Drive, L.A., 888.315.8883 Map I13 MALIBU COUNTRY MART Outdoor center with upscale boutiques including Paige and Victoire, plus Cie Sparks Salon and restaurants. Malibu Lumber Yard and Malibu Village are adjacent. 3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.7300 Map northwest of K7 PALISADES VILLAGE The newest shopping destination from Caruso (the Grove, Americana at Brand) is an upscale walkable village home to over 40 uniquely curated boutiques, as well as fresh dining options and a restored historic movie theater. 15225 Palisades Village Lane, Pacific Palisades, 310.525.1380 Map K7 THE POINT Small, upscale outdoor shopping center features trendy retailers (Planet Blue, Lucky Brand, Madewell) and top eateries (True Food Kitchen, Umi by Hamasaku). 850 S. Sepulveda Blvd., El Segundo, 310.414.5280, thepointsb.com Map L13
T H A I
“The Best of Culver City” 10 Years in a Row ~Culver City News
C U I S I N E
“Readers’ Choice Award” ~LA Times “Best of The West Side” ~The Argonaut
THIRD STREET PROMENADE Pedestrian-only shopping zone includes shops (Anthropologie, Cotton On, Zara), kiosks and entertaining street performers. 1351 3rd St. Promenade, Santa Monica, 310.393.8355 Map L8 TWO RODEO Center with cobblestones in the heart of Beverly Hills features luxury boutiques including Jimmy Choo and Tiffany & Co., plus fine art gallery Galerie Michael and restaurant 208 Rodeo. 9478 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.247.7040 Map J11 WESTFIELD CENTURY CITY Open-air shopping center fresh from a $1 billion revitalization has more than 175 stores; a luxe AMC multiplex with Imax screen; a foodcourt atrium and terrace; and the West Coast’s first Eataly. 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 310.277.3898 Map J11
EXPLORE AMTRAK Train and bus service within the county, along the coast and to major California locations, with nationwide connections. 800.872.7245, amtrak.com
Venice (310) 202-7003 10101 Venice Blvd. Full Bar | Sushi Bar
Beverly Hills (310) 855-9380 998 S. Robertson Blvd. Full Bar | Valet Parking
Dine In | Delivery | Take Out | Order Online
nataleethai.com
BEVERLY HILLS RENT-A-CAR Luxury and exotic rentals. 9732 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.274.6969; 6085 Venice Blvd., Hollywood, 310.659.5555; LAX, 9220 S. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A., 310.670.2020, bhrentacar.com Map K12, J11, O10 NatThai_1019_v_v1.indd 1
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DODGER STADIUM TOUR Behind-the-scenes tour of the legendary stadium allows guests to visit the field, dugout and the Lexus Dugout Club. $15-$20, under 4 free. 1000 Vin Scully Ave., L.A., 866.363.4377 Map G17 HORNBLOWER CRUISES & EVENTS Dine, dance and take in beautiful harbor views aboard a sunset dinner, cocktail or Champagne brunch cruise. Fisherman’s Village, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, 855.290.0383, hornblower.com Map O9
METRO City bus, light rail and subway. Rail lines connect downtown, Santa Monica, Hollywood, Pasadena, Long Beach; underground Red Line from Union Station through Hollywood to San Fernando Valley; Gold Line from Union Station to East L.A. and through Pasadena to Azusa; Blue Line from downtown to Long Beach; Green Line from Norwalk to Redondo Beach; Expo Line from Santa Monica to downtown. 323.466.3876, metro.net METROLINK Regional train system connects L.A. County with Ventura, Orange and San Diego counties. Six of seven Metrolink rail lines (including the Orange County lines, San Bernardino lines and Ventura County lines) begin at Union Station in downtown L.A. 800.371.5465, metrolinktrains.com STARLINE TOURS Celebrity-tour company offers Movie Stars’ Homes tours throughout the day, as well as tours to beaches, theme parks and more. The CitySightseeing double-decker hop-on, hop-off tour makes more than 70 stops around L.A. Prices vary. Tours begin at TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., L.A., 800.959.3131, starlinetours.com Map H13
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The only upscale boutique in greater Los Angeles for women size 12 and up. From comfortable to casual or dressy— classic to funky or fun: Abundance has it all! 13606 Ventura Blvd. Sherman Oaks
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TANSY
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Magnolia Park is truly in a world all its own. Featuring hip shopping, quirky boutiques, one of a kind eateries, and fun antique shops – there is something new around every corner.
It’s all here - in Magnolia Park, Burbank, CA For more information, please go to VisitBurbank.com
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Hollywood Starts Here
Discover the best of Southern California! • The
Original Celebrity Homes Tour • CitySightseeing Hop-on Hop-off • Hollywood Sign Tour • Grand City Tour in 9 languages • TCM Movie Locations Tour • Theme Parks & Attractions • San Diego, Tijuana & more • Private Charters available
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DISCOVER L.A.’S
MARINA Where living in the moment means paddle-boarding to breakfast. Seizing the day can be a mid-morning sailing lesson, lunch in a poolside cabana, or cycling to Venice Beach. Embracing an evening is laughing with friends under a colorful sunset on a harbor cruise. It’s all here... What will your Marina adventure be? Check out visitmdr.com or call 424.526.7900 for information. Get connected with Marina del Rey
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30 THINGS WE LOVE THIS MONTH
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1 The dramatic Smokin Old Fashioned at Toluca Lake’s new supper club, Verse. p. 6
9 Shopping for cassettes at Jacknife Records & Tapes in Atwater Village. p. 7
16 Dinner and a movie at L.A.’s
23 Oscar Oiwa: Dreams of a
first Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, located at THE BLOC. p. 43
2 Pasadena café Lavender & Honey’s locally crafted cold brew concentrate. p. 36
10 Exploring Lucio Fontana’s immersive environments at Hauser & Wirth’s exhibit, open through April 12. 213.943.1620
17 Chef Josiah Citrin’s new
Sleeping World’s 360° dreamscape at the USC Pacific Asia Museum. 626.787.2680
namesake concept, Citrin, adjacent to his fine-dining destination, Mélisse. p. 22
24 Ooh la la-worthy hairstyles
11 Chuan Spa’s Urban Longev-
18 L.A.-infused twists on street food classics—like these fish and chips—at Locala, in downtown’s Mayfair Hotel. 213.632.1200
25 Sustainable home goods and apothecary items at Los Feliz boutique Otherwild. p. 28
3 Feasting on the best falafel in the city at Dune. p. 13 4 South Korea-designed
ity Facial—perfect for citydweller skin. 626.585.6414
streetwear brand Zensai’s new Beverly Hills flagship. p. 18
12 Ordering a latte at Go
5 Cali-Asian fare—illuminated by black light—at Piccalilli, new to Culver City. 424.298.8540 6 Chef Ryan Costanza’s new Mediterranean menu at Abernethy’s, in the Music Center Plaza. 213.972.8088
7 The return of Broadway hit Hamilton to Hollywood’s Pantages Theatre. p. 4
8 Cool menswear and accessories at Wittmore’s new Malibu location. p. 22
at French blow dry bar Kova, new to West Hollywood. p. 26
26 Chic cuts and color at Starring by Ted Gibson. p. 24
Get Em Tiger’s new Cinerama Dome Hollywood location before catching a movie. p. 30
19 Shopping top-rated products
13 Olivetta, a new, super-stylish
20 Lovely, sustainably made
27 Free admission at the Museum of Contemporary Art’s two DTLA venues. p. 56
addition to West Hollywood’s dining scene with a menu from chef Michael Fiorelli. p. 14
dresses from L.A.-based Reformation. 213.459.6078
28 The lush walkway leading
21 L.A.-based brand Block
to A-list-favorite restaurant Catch LA. 323.347.6060
14 Jewelry and lifestyle boutique Love Adorned’s bohemian new Arts District outpost. p. 34
15 Catching iconic duo Marty and Elayne singing at The Dresden Room in Los Feliz. 323.665.4294
in person at Amazon 4-star, new to The Americana at Brand. p. 56
Shop’s new “secret shop” at its Atwater Village studio. blockshoptextiles.com
22 Eco-friendly fun and greentechnology demos at Grand Park and the Music Center’s Earth Day L.A. celebration. p. 4
29 Cozy, luxurious styles made with Suri alpaca wool at Alicia Adams Alpaca, in Malibu’s Trancas Country Market. p. 20
30 Cheering on the Boys in Blue at Dodger Stadium. p. 52
1, JAKOB LAYMAN; 9, DAVID HASKELL; 18, COURTESY THE MAYFAIR HOTEL; 23, OSCAR OIWA, DREAMS OF A SLEEPING WORLD, INSTALLATION VIEW, 2019, COURTESY USC PACIFIC ASIA MUSEUM; 29, TOM MOORE
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Escape Escape from from the the city city and and enter enter a world a world ofof inspiring inspiring art, art, stunning stunning architecture, architecture, enchanting enchanting gardens, gardens, dramatic dramatic vistas, vistas, and and anan ever-changing ever-changing array array ofof concerts, concerts, family family festivals, festivals, and and theater. theater. With With two two locations locations toto welcome welcome you—the you—the Getty Getty Center Center and and Getty Getty Villa— Villa— there’s there’s something something forfor everyone everyone toto enjoy. enjoy. What What will will energize energize you? you? Plan Plan your your visit visit today. today.
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© 2020 © 2020 J. Paul J. Paul Getty Getty Trust Trust
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