LOS ANGELES
SUMMER
2021
IMMERSIVE VAN GOGH NANCY SILVERTON’S THE BARISH UNIVERSAL STUDIOS UNLEASHED!
20/21 Vision NEW RESTAURANTS THAT SURVIVED AND FLOURISHED
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THE ULTIMATE
SHOPPING EXPERIENCE AN EXTRAORDINARY COLLECTION OF 250 BOUTIQUES AND 30 RESTAURANTS Alexander McQueen · Apple Store · Balenciaga · Bottega Veneta · Burberry · Cartier · Chanel Dior · Dior Men · Dolce&Gabbana · Fendi · Gianvito Rossi · Givenchy · Golden Goose · Gucci · Harry Winston Hermès · Lafayette 148 New York · Louis Vuitton · Lululemon · Max Mara · Moncler · The North Face Panerai · Prada · Roger Vivier · Rolex · Saint Laurent · Tiffany & Co. · Tory Burch · Valentino · Van Cleef & Arpels Din Tai Fung · Hamamori Restaurant & Sushi Bar · Knife Pleat · Marugame Udon · TERRACE by Mix Mix partial listing
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CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS Editor’s Note Where Now Maps
4 6 37
CITY TOURS Beverly Hills Santa Monica West Hollywood Hollywood Downtown
14 16 18 20 22
7
Steamed custard with salmon roe at Gozen
ON THE
Spread at Theía, new Greek restaurant; see feature on page 10. Photo courtesy Theía.
8
New presentation for LACMA’s Modern Art
THE GUIDE 24 Dining
FEATURE
31 Attractions
10 20/21 Vision
32 Museums 34 Shopping
In retrospect, few restaurateurs would have opened an establishment in 2020, when so many businesses were closing—but some forged ahead. Here are the restaurants in L.A. that flourished. BY ROGER GRODY
36 Nightlife 36 Explore
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COURTESY GOZEN BISTRO; FREDRIK NILSEN/LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART
COVER
THE
EDITOR’S NOTE PUBLISHER
SUMMER
Jeff Levy EDITOR
2021
Benjamin Epstein ART DIRECTOR
Carol Wakano CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Roger Grody, Zoe Lorenzo CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dale Berman, Lisa Corson, Edwin Santiago DIGITAL MANAGER
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Tina Marie Smith ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Jean Greene, Walter Lewis, Kerry Baggett
The Outdoors Just Keep Getting Greater
Christine Roessler BUSINESS MANAGER
Leanne Killian Riggar
Hilton in Beverly Hills, offers flavorpacked Cal-Med dishes—starting with latkes with labneh, pickled apple and caviar—and 360-degree city views in a space that cheers by day and shimmers at night. Cal-Ital trattoria Savoca at the JW Marriott L.A. Live unveils the Cottages at Savoca, outdoor dining cottages with electric candles, downtown skyline views and dishes such as lasagna with Scamorza, a stretchedcurd cheese. THEBlvd Privé at the Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills is on a private cobblestone passage dotted with topiaries and illuminated by gas lamps—the kind of place you might pair sea bass with pistachio lavender and yuzu emulsion with a glass of fine Champagne. Wait, was that ... a breeze? Pashminas are provided on request. For details on these and a hundred other restaurants, see our dining listings on page 24. —BENJAMIN EPSTEIN
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VLADIMIR PERLOVICH; COURTESY SANT’OLINA
I
f one truth has emerged from these difficult times, it is this: Even a pandemic has its silver linings. When it comes to dining, here’s my favorite: all the new outdoor venues. Even as health guidelines allow for greater capacity indoors, even when we return to full dine-in capacity, restaurateurs and patrons have come to value outdoor dining as never before. Mora Italiano at Comoncy, presenting pizzas and pastas, opened on a rooftop on 3rd Street last fall; you can read more about it and half a dozen other outstanding new restaurants in our feature 20/21 Vision on page 10. But many more have opened of late. Cha Cha Chá, sibling to Terraza Cha Cha Chá in Mexico City, is a lush rooftop perch in downtown’s Arts District whose midcentury aesthetic suggests both a Mexican villa and Palm Springs. Mushroom tacos are a specialty. Sant’olina (above), on the expansive rooftop at the Beverly
CIRCULATION MANAGER
Made in 20 L.A. 20 ON VIEW THROUGH AUGUST 1, 2021
a version hammer.ucla.edu | huntington.org FULTON LEROY WASHINGTON (AKA “MR. WASH”), POLITICAL TEARS OBAMA (DETAIL), 2008. OIL ON STRETCHED CANVAS. 24 × 18 IN. (61 × 45.7 CM). COURTESY OF THE ARTIST
Presented by:
WHERE NOW SPRING SUMMER
DINING
Checking In Chef, author and James Beard Foundation Award-winner Nancy Silverton unveils Italian steakhouse The Barish at the historic Hollywood Roosevelt, her first new restaurant in eight years. The room has floor-to-ceiling windows, mirrored columns, banquettes and Tuscan plate ware. The menu offers wood-fire-grilled beef dryaged in house, wood-fire-baked pastas and the Cal-Ital dishes for which Silverton is known, such as grilled abalone mushrooms with porcini butter. The restaurant’s name, heirlooms and sepia photographs honor her heritage: The Barishes were Jewish immigrants who settled in Canada in the 19th century to raise Angus cattle and Hampshire sheep. The Roosevelt hosted the first Academy Awards in 1929. p. 28
Grilled miso-marinated lamb, center, and from left, steamed custard with roe, clay-pot mushroom rice and sashimi
Good Things at Gozen Bistro
STACY TOYAMA, TOP, AND DW VARLEY. OPPOSITE: COURTESY HOLLYWOOD ROOSEVELT
Director Hideaki Hosono—best known as Mr. Hide, pronounced hee-day—named his new Gozen Japanese Sake Bistro in West Hollywood for the concept “five good things”—good water, sake, meat, seafood and vegetables—that characterize the best Japanese cooking. (Go means “five.”) The meat: Angus-wagyu hybrid beef. The sake: small-batch junmai sakes exclusive to the venue. The cultural experience blends new and old. Though the space is modern, it’s lined with ukiyo-e prints, some three centuries old; among the handmade serving dishes are examples dating back two centuries. Elaborate seasonal kaiseki tasting menus are tiered from $80 to $240. Bento boxes to go are filled with sashimi and chirashi sushi as well as hot selections. The Gozen Express food truck offers custom donburi bowls. p. 28
LONG BEACH SHORT LIST Renowned chefrestaurateur Michael Mina and nightlife guru Brent Bolthouse together launch Bungalow Kitchen overlooking the marina at shopping destination 2nd and PCH. The vibe is chic and bohemian, eclectic and residential, with intriguing decor throughout. On the menu: chilegarlic king crab; carbonara pizza; short-rib “pop tart”
au poivre; and lobster pot pie. Chef Ross Pangilinan, whose Mix Mix Kitchen Bar in Santa Ana recently earned the Michelin Bib Gourmand, opens ReMix Kitchen Bar at the Long Beach Exchange. Eclectic small plates include roasted Brussels sprouts with Korean chile, citrus and peanuts; Filipino fried chicken with pickled chiles and calamansi honey; and
pastas including shrimpand-bone-marrow arrabbiata. A duo known for their traditional German eateries unveil contemporary Cal-global Wood & Salt Tavern in the upscale neighborhood of Bixby Knolls. Menu highlights: Santa Carota beef tartare, Tehachapi Rye potato gnocchi, and wood-grilled whole dorade with Sicilianstyle caponata. pp. 29-30
Shellfish on ice at Bungalow Kitchen
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From top: The Bedroom at Immersive Van Gogh; Premiere, 1957, by Stuart Davis at LACMA; Mr. Rene # MAN POWER, 2011, by Fulton Leroy Washington at Hammer Museum
WHERE NOW SUMMER
ART
Art on the Move The Los Angeles County Museum of Art’s Modern Art Collection returns in a new presentation of 250 works by nearly 200 artists. LACMA’s European and American modern holdings focus on German expressionism, abstract expressionism and art of Southern California but also include works by
Fresh takes on new art and old
Pablo Picasso and Alberto Giacometti. The collection is installed on Level 3 of the Broad Contemporary Art Museum, its light-filled Renzo Piano-designed galleries modified by architect Frank O. Gehry. Six thematic audio tours, a 30-minute archival film and a collection soundtrack are new. p. 34
East Side, West Side Made in L.A. 2020: a version, the fifth iteration of the acclaimed biennial, unfolds with complementary presentations through Aug. 1 at the Hammer Museum in Westwood and the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
8 SOCALPULSE.COM SUMMER 2021
in San Marino. Works by 30 Los Angeles–based artists—new installations, videos, films, sculptures, performances and paintings, many commissioned for the exhibition—are presented, part at the Hammer, part at the Huntington. Admission to the Hammer is free; during the run, visitors receive passes to the Huntington to view the show in full. p. 33
Go Van Gogh! Spectacular digital art exhibit Immersive Van Gogh, an hourlong, timedentry, walk-through experience, invites audiences to “step inside” the works of Post-Impressionist artist Vincent van Gogh. Art, music, movement and towering projections evoke van Gogh’s inner workings. Masterpieces from the 1880s include The Potato Eaters, Starry Night and Sunflowers. Presentations follow their metamorphoses from first encounter to canvas. The engagement, which sold 80,000 tickets its first week on sale, was extended through January before it opened. p. 31
FROM TOP, COURTESY IMMERSIVE VAN GOGH, LACMA AND THE HAMMER
In a New Light
20/21 Vision Outstanding new restaurants in Los Angeles not only survived but flourished under the most difficult of conditions. by ROGER GRODY
Hindsight is 2020; in retrospect, few restaurateurs would have opted to launch a business in a year referred to in their industry as an “extinction event,” when countless dining establishments across the nation permanently shuttered. But some did, and in 2021 the future of their restaurants looks bright. Here are the best of them. / Mírame / The spirit of Mexico meets the glamour of Beverly Hills at Mírame, one of the most beautiful restaurants to have opened when so many were going dark. Michelin-starred chef Joshua Gil turns out starters such as salmon-skin chicharrón, grilled octopus with chorizo velouté and beef-tongue taco; among mains are a Sonoma duck breast and leg confit and a whole fried Baja snapper with chili chintextle and tomatillo milpero. A lovely patio with wood-burning fireplace suits the south-of-the-border flavors. A modified opening built around takeout, delivery 10 SOCALPULSE.COM SUMMER 2021
and outdoor dining last summer generated crucial buzz. 419 N. Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.230.5035, mirame.la / Bull & Butterfly / The Playa Vista spot offers a coastal rancho California twist on the steakhouse concept—and no mahogany and red leather but rather a bright and airy setting as envisioned by Lemonade founders Heidi and Alan Jackson. Grilled maple bacon with jalapeño jelly or kampachi-kumquat crudo precede Prime steaks or Baja seafood. Originally set to open in fall 2019, routine delays
COURTESIES PERLE, THEÍA, MIRAME AND PERLE; STEAK, VICTORIA PEARSON. OPPOSITE: COURTESY MORA ITALIANO
Clockwise from above left: seared scallops with cauliflower purée, apple, pickled raisins and lime-curry oil at Perle; Tropic Like It’s Hot cocktail at Theía; the patio at Mírame; Perle chef-owner Dean Yasharian; and asadastyle hanger steak at Bull & Butterfly. Opposite: funghi pizza at Mora Italiano.
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“Everyone’s senses were heightened, and every bite and sip seemed meaningful and exciting. It was fun to be a part of that reawakening.” —Jared Meisler, Nueva
WONHO FRANK LEE. OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY THEÍA; COURTESY MÍRAME; VICTORIA PEARSON; NUEVA, ROB STARK
pushed Bull & Butterfly’s debut to winter, never good timing for a restaurant, so the owners settled on spring 2020 ... “then ‘boom,’ the pandemic hit,” recounts Alan Jackson. The restaurant and popular patio opened in September and have operated since without interruption. 12746 Jefferson Blvd., Playa Vista, 213.267.2900, bullandbutterfly.com
reawakening.” The vibe is contemporary and relaxed; the patio is colorful. Diners might select a ceviche or falafel taco, an entree of wood-grilled branzino with mole rojo and Castelvetrano tapenade, and a silky orange flan to finish. Mezcal cocktails from mixologist Adam Fournier (NoMad) are also a draw. 822 Washington Blvd., Marina del Rey, 310.747.6050, nuevavenice.com
/ Mora Italiano at Comoncy / The sister restaurant of chef Mindy Oh’s beloved San Fernando Valley establishment debuted on a rooftop in L.A.’s Beverly Grove shopping-dining district last fall with lush greenery, candlelit tables and views of the Hollywood hills. A salad of peas, burrata and mint is a refreshing way to commence before sharing a thin-crust charcuterie pizza or bottarga spaghetti; entrees are represented by whole roasted branzino and porchetta with fennel pollen and pistachio; finish with olive oil cake elevated with Grand Marnier. 8201 W. 3rd St., L.A., 213.588.0225, moraitaliano.com
/ Perle / A French bistro spilling onto the sidewalk (as French bistros do!) in Old Pasadena was scheduled to open just when most places were closing. But after navigating the shutdowns, the restaurant and its classically inspired French Lobster fettunta at Ospi. cooking have earned a loyal following. Opposite, clockwise from Mentored by Michelin-three-star chefs top: dinner spread at Theía; Daniel Boulud and Gordon Ramsay, chef/ Mexican spirit meets Beverly Hills glamour at owner Dean Yasharian cooked more reMírame; Old Fashioned cently at Chateau Marmont on the Sunwith smoked thyme at Bull set Strip. A mirrored menu concept gives & Butterfly; hamachi and equal prominence to meat and seafood uni, and chefs Mesraim classics as to vegetarian dishes. You’ll Llanez and Vartan find classic caviar service and equally Abgaryan, at Nueva. / Theía / Greek cuisine is underrepelaborate seaweed caviar service, wild resented in L.A., which made the arrival of lively indoorBurgundy escargot and mushroom “escargot.” Steak outdoor Theía even more welcome. Diners create feasts frites with béarnaise are a highlight; black-truffle pasta of meze such as traditional taramasalata and grilled stars on both menus. A tarte Tatin further evokes memoctopus or less traditional 24-karat-gold-leaf-accented ories of Paris. 43 E. Union St., Pasadena, 626.460.8819, steak tartare and truffled potato croquettes. In addition perlerestaurant.com to the expected moussaka, entrees include lamb burgers and tomahawk rib-eyes. Libations include Mediterranean / Ospi / A culinary love letter to southern Italy, Ospi wines and intriguing cocktails. Owner Max Simon pressed derives its name from the Italian word ospitante (“host”), on with the project despite the first wave of pandemic cloand it’s as welcoming as a friend’s dinner party. Distinctive sures and uncertainty and believes the lockdowns made pizzas with cracker-thin tonda-style crusts are inspired by his team more committed than ever to bring their concept those found at Antico Forno Roscioli in Rome, a favorite of to life. 8048 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.591.0059, theia-la.com owners Jackson Kalb and Melissa Saka. An entire menu section is dedicated to fettunta, thick slices of olive oil/ Nueva / Just over the border from Venice, this colorful brushed toasted bread whose toppings range from simple spot from chefs Vartan Abgaryan (71Above, Yours Truly) garlic to chilled lobster with stracciatella. Pastas include and Mesraim Llanez was originally slated to open in spring black truffle gnocchetti Sardi. “We had two options: cease 2020 but ultimately opened at the end of summer. “We construction and return a fraction of funding to investors, were the first meal out for a lot of folks, and they were or move forward and at the very least provide jobs,” Saka over the moon,” recalls partner Jared Meisler. “Everyone’s says of Ospi’s 2020 opening near the Venice boardwalk. senses were heightened, and every bite and sip seemed “It was a no-brainer for both of us.” 2025 Pacific Ave., meaningful and exciting. It was fun to be a part of that Venice, 424.443.5007, ospivenice.com SUMMER 2021 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 13
CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN
STARS AND STELLAR SHOPPING AND DINING, HAPPENING CULVER CITY AND CENTURY CITY. It’s only 5 square miles, but Beverly Hills looms large in pop culture. The posh locale is home to some of the priciest properties in L.A. County and boasts the country’s most recognizable ZIP code. Rodeo Drive, perhaps the world’s most famous shopping street, offers virtually every luxury fashion brand. Nearby Century City and Culver City boast on-trend shopping and dining and entertainment industry heavy hitters.
Beverly Hills Hotel ushered in a frenzy of movie-star mansionbuilding in the hills north of Sunset Boulevard. 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 and other local landmarks.
THE MANSIONS
RODEO DRIVE + GOLDEN TRIANGLE
Beverly Hills’ glamorous reputation dates back to the early 20th century, when the opening of the
Find Louis Vuitton, Versace and other highest-end designer boutiques on Rodeo
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 its entertainment businesses; rub shoulders with the power-lunchers at Wolfgang Puck’s legendary Spago on Canon Drive. Enjoy the city’s cultural offerings at the Paley Center for Media and the Samuel Goldwyn Theater at the Academy
of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts transformed the Beverly Hills Post Office into an entertainment venue.
CENTURY CITY West on Santa Monica Boulevard is modern acropolis Century City, home to ICM Partners, Creative Artists Agency and Fox Studios. Past Avenue of the Stars is Westfield Century City, an upscale open-air center with more than 175 stores including Tiffany & Co., new Âme Jewelry and Rodd & Gunn for men as well as an AMC multiplex, Din Tai Fung restaurant and Italian marketplace Eataly. Nearby on Constellation Boulevard, epicures are also drawn to Hinoki & the Bird and Tom Colicchio’s Craft.
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DALE BERMAN. OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: JEFF ELSTONE; COURTESY THE WALLIS; EDWIN SANTIAGO
Beverly Hills
Drive. The street is the crown jewel of the Golden Triangle shopping district bounded by Santa Monica and Wilshire boulevards and Canon Drive. Ascend a cobblestone street to parfumerie Henry Jacques and fine-art Galerie Michael at Two Rodeo.
CULVER CITY
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: dish at Vespertine; Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts; House of Bijan on Rodeo Drive. OPPOSITE: Via Rodeo
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. Near the intersection of Washington and National boulevards is the hip Platform lifestyle complex, plus a handy stop on the Metro Expo Line. To the east, the Hayden Tract boasts chef Jordan Kahn’s acclaimed “gastronomical experiment” Vespertine. Culver City’s city seal proclaims it “the Heart of Screenland.” In 1915, Ince/Triangle Studios opened on Washington Boulevard; in 1924, the site became MGM Studios. Classics including Singin’ in the Rain and The Wizard of Oz would be filmed on its movie lots. Today, it is home to Sony Pictures Studios, where such hits as Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! are taped. Experience Culver City’s screen heritage on a Sony Pictures Studio Tour.
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CITY TOURS
Santa Monica COASTAL CITY AND NEIGHBORS MALIBU, VENICE, PACIFIC PALISADES AND BRENTWOOD. In the 1800s, orator Tom Fitch called Santa Monica “the Zenith City by the Sunset Sea.” The 21st-century version of Santa Monica fulfills its early promise, with a bustling downtown and beach that attract millions of visitors per year. Pacific Coast Highway connects SaMo with coastal draws such as Malibu and Pacific Palisades. Venice and its Abbot Kinney Boulevard draw an eclectic crowd; upscale Brentwood is home to the Getty Center and numerous A-listers.
SANTA MONICA Third Street Promenade, three pedestrian-only
blocks on 3rd Street between Broadway and Wilshire Boulevard, teems with people. Visitors can browse dozens of shops, including H&M and Anthropologie, and gawk at the myriad street artists. If they don’t refuel at one of the many eateries along the Promenade, visitors can venture to the surrounding streets to restaurants from cozy pub Ye Olde King’s Head to Michelin-starred siblings Rustic Canyon for small plates and Cassia for Asian fusion. Anchoring the promenade at Broadway is Santa Monica Place, an open-air shopping
center with Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, 80 boutiques and the top-level Dining Deck. Steps away is the 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 and LED-lit Ferris wheel.
MALIBU A few miles north of Santa Monica along Pacific Coast Highway is Malibu. Many of the city’s best destinations are visible from PCH, including renowned restaurants with ocean views, from the casual Malibu Seafood to the upscale Nobu Malibu.
Celebrity-frequented Malibu Country Mart serves as the area’s town square; its Lucky’s steakhouse is new. Adjacent Malibu Village and Malibu Lumber Yard offer plenty more shops and restaurants.
PACIFIC PALISADES There’s more than initially meets the eye in seemingly sleepy Pacific Palisades. Palisades Village—from the developer of The Grove and the Americana at Brand—boasts more than 40 boutiques. The Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine on Sunset Boulevard is a 10-acre oasis with a koi- and swan-filled lake. The area’s crown jewel is the Getty Villa, inspired by a Julius Caesar-era villa and dedicated to the study of the art and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome and Etruria.
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NATALIA MACHEDA / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO. OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: WONHO FRANK LEE; LISA CORSON/J. PAUL GETTY TRUST; LISA CORSON
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Night Flight cocktail at Citrin; Central Garden at the Getty; the Venice canals. OPPOSITE: Santa Monica Pier
VENICE Abbot Kinney developed Venice as an American version of the Italian city; the canals in his version are lined with multimillion-dollar bungalows. His namesake Abbot Kinney Boulevard is Venice’s coolest section, with restaurants such as Gjelina and distinctive boutiques making for an altogether entertaining stroll. On Ocean Front Walk, you might see street performers, vendors and Muscle Beach bodybuilders.
BRENTWOOD Marilyn Monroe once called this affluent enclave northeast of Santa Monica home; it remains a favorite celebrity stamping ground. San Vicente Boulevard functions as the neighborhood’s main street, with independent shops, bakeries, cafes and restaurants. The Brentwood Country Mart, a charming open-air shopping center built in 1948, offers upscale retail. The area’s main draw is the architecturally stunning Getty Center, a hilltop museum boasting J. Paul Getty’s spectacular art collection and a beautiful central garden.
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CITY TOURS
West Hollywood THE SCENE INCLUDES SUNSET STRIP, MELROSE AND FAIRFAX AVENUES AND 3RD STREET. For a municipality measuring less than 2 square miles and with fewer than 35,000 residents, WeHo wields enormous influence over the L.A. lifestyle. Numerous world-class art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, nightclubs and theaters make it a frequent destination for locals and visitors alike. In the Fairfax and midWilshire districts, find dining and shopping at the Grove and Original Farmers Market and culture along Museum Row.
SUNSET STRIP After dark, the 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 rocks with legendary establishments such as the Roxy, the Whisky a Go Go and the Viper Room, which have a long history of hosting performances by rock ‘n’ roll royalty. Newer nightclubs include raucous 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 and shops such as beloved indie Book Soup draw traffic.
MELROSE AVENUE Melrose Avenue is synonymous with trendiness; new expressions in fashion, art and food continue to percolate up and down this street. East of Fairfax Avenue, it offers indie boutiques, cafes, tattoo parlors and vintage shops. To the west, Melrose becomes très sophistiqué, appealing to upscale tastes at Assembly, Kelly Wearstler and Vivienne Westwood. Just off the avenue is the fashionable three-block Melrose Place, where luxury vehicles line up at chic Nine Zero One salon and boutiques such as Mansur Gavriel and Zimmermann.
BEVERLY BOULEVARD + 3RD STREET Beverly Boulevard and West 3rd Street, major east-west streets running through the city, are filled
with restaurants such as new Theía and 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. Bloomingdale’s, Gucci and Louis Vuitton boutiques, and restaurants including refined seafood destination Angler, are among more than 160 draws.
FAIRFAX AVENUE + 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, a renowned facility with more than 100,000 works
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COURTESY ORIGINAL FARMERS MARKET. OPPOSITE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY THEÍA; COURTESY BEVERLY CENTER; EDWIN SANTIAGO
FIND THE BEST IN
CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT: Dishes at Theía; the Beverly Center; Chris Burden’s Urban Light at LACMA. OPPOSITE: Original Farmers Market.
dating from the ancient period to today. Adjacent to LACMA is the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, where the ice age comes alive. Additional venues on Museum Row include the renovated Petersen Automotive Museum and Craft Contemporary. To the museums’ east is the burgeoning District La Brea, a walkable stretch filled with dining spots including French bistro République and 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 Ethiopian restaurants along Fairfax Avenue, too. Adjacent, and connected by a vintage trolley, is The Grove, an outdoor shopping center. The Grove has the character of an old-fashioned village square, with stained-glass street lamps and a central fountain. Nordstrom, a movie theater, boutiques including new Aritzia and Maje and restaurants including Bar Verde at Nordstrom, new ALMA, and Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill.
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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN
STAR CULTURE: WALK OF FAME, GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY, SUMMER’S HOLLYWOOD BOWL With its new boutiques, hotels and restaurants, Hollywood has reemerged as a bona fide visitor destination. In the heart of Hollywood, check out classic theaters and eclectic museums; see the stars embedded on the Hollywood Walk of Fame; or tour the site of the Academy Awards. For a different kind of starry scene, head to Griffith Park for stargazing at the Griffith Observatory as well as hiking and golfing.
HOLLYWOOD + HIGHLAND Hollywood & Highland was a catalyst for the rebirth of Hollywood
Boulevard. Its Dolby Theatre is the home of the annual Academy Awards, and its central Babylon Court frames views of the iconic Hollywood sign; erected in 1923 to advertise a housing development, the 45foot-high letters originally read “Hollywoodland.” Other draws include Japan House Gallery, MAC Cosmetics, new Anvio VR virtual reality experience and dining spots such as Cho Oishi for sushi and shabu shabu. Next door to Hollywood & Highland is the TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre), famed for the celebrity hand-
SHOWTIME Just opposite Hollywood & Highland is the ornate, lavishly illuminated El Capitan Theatre. Restored by Disney, it offers special presentations of the studio’s releases. The 1922 Egyptian Theatre screens eclectic artsy and classic fare. The landmark Pantages Theatre stages megahit musicals such as Hamilton. The Hollywood Bowl is the largest, and best, outdoor amphitheater in the U.S. The Los Angeles Philharmonic takes up residence in the summer; picnicking there under the stars is among the city’s most memorable experiences.
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 visitors’ feet. Marilyn Monroe’s star is steps from Hollywood & Highland. John Lennon’s is in front of the Capitol Records Building; the architectural landmark is designed to resemble a stack of records.
MUSEUMS, HOLLYWOOD-STYLE Hollywood has its share of museums, but you won’t encounter Picassos or Monets. Next to TCL
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20 SOCALPULSE.COM SUMMER 2021
ALAMY STOCK. OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; COURTESY TCL CHINESE THEATRE; EDWIN SANTIAGO
Hollywood
and footprints embedded in concrete out front (see below). Nearby restaurants include The Barish, new at the Hollywood Roosevelt.
CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT: A star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame; TCL Chinese Theatre; Pantages Theatre. OPPOSITE: Griffith Observatory
Chinese Theatre is Madame Tussauds Hollywood, filled with more than 100 wax figures. You can ponder zany accomplishments at the Guinness World Records Museum; the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium offers bizarre exhibits. The Hollywood Museum in the historic Max Factor Building displays 10,000 artifacts showcasing 100 years of showbiz history.
GRIFFITH PARK Griffith Park, among the largest urban parks in America, is an ideal place to hike, take a train ride, picnic or golf. The Charlie Turner Trailhead begins at Griffith Observatory, one of the world’s great planetariums and a frequent film location. The hike up Mount Hollywood (3 miles round trip) provides views of the Hollywood sign; the Greek Theatre is a legendary music venue. Also here: the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens and the Western-heritageinspired Autry Museum of the American West; both are accessible from the Ventura and Golden State freeways.
SUMMER 2021 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 21
CITY TOURS
Downtown CULTURE AND COOL: MUSIC CENTER, THE ARTS DISTRICT, L.A. LIVE AND DISTINCTIVE DINING Downtown Los Angeles has undergone an eye-popping renaissance. Historic art deco structures share the streetscape with glass-clad towers, and even movie stars have snapped up lofts in century-old buildings. The arts thrive along Grand Avenue as well as in the hip Arts District. L.A. Live is sports central; Chinatown and Olvera Street are fun cultural excursions; to the southwest, Exposition Park offers a trio of major museums.
GRAND AVENUE The heart of L.A.’s performing-arts scene and the site of its most
dramatic architecture, Grand Avenue lives up to its name. Four venues on Bunker Hill make up the Music Center. The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is home to L.A. Opera. The Ahmanson Theatre and Mark Taper Forum host theatrical productions. Architect Frank Gehry’s spectacular Walt Disney Concert Hall is the home of the L.A. Philharmonic. After a show, 12-acre Grand Park is opposite.
BUNKER HILL Not far from Ahmanson Theatre is the postmodern Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. A short walk south on Grand is
The Broad museum, a stunning edifice built by, and housing the contemporary-art collection of, philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad, and, just opposite. the Museum of Contemporary Art. Angels Flight is a vintage funicular that climbs to California Plaza from Hill Street. The Bunker Hill Steps rise five stories at the U.S. Bank Tower, site of the OUE Skyspace LA attraction (temporarily closed). Across the street is the art deco-style Central Library.
OLVERA STREET The city’s origins date back to 1781 and El Pueblo de Los Angeles, a collection of 27 buildings along the festive pedestrian concourse Olvera Street. The city’s oldest building, Avila Adobe, is here, along with Mexican restaurants, mariachi bands and merchants
offering arts and crafts. Across the street is Union Station, the largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States; a few blocks away is L.A.’s oldest restaurant, Philippe the Original (1908).
CHINATOWN Chinatown is the destination for dim sum—and dining at foodie meccas such as Howlin’ Ray’s for Nashville hot chicken— or browsing for clothing and home goods. Cultural highlights include the ornate Thien Hau Temple. Dodger Stadium is a short drive away, as is San Antonio Winery, which offers tours and tastings.
ARTS DISTRICT To the east of emerging hipster ‘hood Little Tokyo is the Arts District, which boasts myriad murals; shops and mar-
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22 SOCALPULSE.COM SUMMER 2021
COURTESY THE BROAD MUSEUM. OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: NICOLE FRANZEN, DALE BERMAN, COURTESY UNION STATION
FIND THE BEST IN
CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT: Beef-cheek tagine at Bavel; dancers at Olvera Street; Union Station. OPPOSITE: The Broad museum.
kets; Hauser & Wirth gallery; a bevy of breweries; and lauded restaurants such as Bavel, Bestia and Brera—not to mention new Damian from worldrenowned Mexico City chef Enrique Olvera.
L.A. LIVE The L.A. Live entertainment complex includes Microsoft Theater, night spots and a dozen restaurants such as Savoca and Patxi’s Pizza, all facing a massive plaza lined with LED screens. It adjoins Staples Center, home of the L.A. Lakers, Clippers, Sparks and Kings and host to top pop acts. The Grammy Museum honors musicians with videos, artifacts and exhibits.
EXPOSITION PARK South of downtown is Exposition Park, site of the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum—home of USC Trojans football, twice host of the Summer Olympics—as well as the California African American Museum, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and California Science Center, which has a 3D Imax theater and displays the NASA space shuttle Endeavour.
SUMMER 2021 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 23
THE GUIDE / DINING 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..................... 24 Beverly Hills.............................. 26 Brentwood................................. 26 Century City............................... 26 Culver City................................. 26 Downtown.................................. 26 Hollywood.................................. 28 La Brea Avenue......................... 28 La Cienega Boulevard.............. 28 Malibu........................................ 28 Pasadena................................... 28 Santa Monica............................. 28 South Bay.................................. 29
A Toda Madre!
Valley.......................................... 30
BEVERLY BLVD. / 3RD ST. / MELROSE AVE. A.O.C. > Mediterranean $$$ Eatery from James Beard awardwinning Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne pioneered two culinary trends: the small-plates format and wine bar. Charcuterie, soft-shell crab, chicken tagine and lamb burger. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8700 W. 3rd St., L.A., 310.859.9859 Map I12 (V) CROSSROADS KITCHEN > Mediterranean $$$ Chef/partner Tal Ronnen creates refined plant-based dishes, many inspired by nonvegan comfort classics, e.g. artichoke “oysters,” Impossible Cigars, plus pizzas and pastas. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8284 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.782.9245 Map H12
(V) GRACIAS MADRE > Mexican/Latin $$ Creative plant-based Mexican fare, and winning patio, please vegans and omnivores. New Japanese El Tesoro highball machine and cocktails. L, D (daily). 8905 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.978.2170 Map I12 JOAN’S ON THIRD > American $$ Cafe on busy West 3rd Street offers omelets, sandwiches, salads, soups, sweets, picnic baskets and gourmet items. B, L, D (daily). 8350 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.655.2285 Map I12 THE LITTLE DOOR > French-Med $$$ Ne plus ultra spot for a candlelit dinner in a romantic setting— oysters, steak tartare, rib-eye with chanterelles under the stars.
D (Tu-Su). 8164 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.951.1210 Map I12 MORA ITALIANO > Mediterranean $$ New. Outdoor-only spot offers lush greenery, candlelit tables, views of the Hollywood hills and a fresh takes on Italian classics. D (W-Su). 8201 W. 3rd St., L.A., 213.588.0225 Map I13 OSTERIA MOZZA > Italian $$$ L.A. breadmaker Nancy Silverton partners in Mozza’s contemporary Italian spots including this sophisticated dining room. D (W-Su). 6602 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.0100 Map H13 PIZZERIA MOZZA > Italian $$ Osteria Mozza’s relaxed sibling offers pizzas, salumi and rustic specials. Delivery/takeout from Mozza2Go. D (W-Su). Pizzeria
Venice......................................... 30 West Hollywood......................... 30 Westside.................................... 30
(V) = Vegan/Vegetarian
Mozza: 641 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.297.0101. Mozza2Go: 6610 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.1130 Map H13 PROVIDENCE > Seafood $$$$ James Beard award winner/ Michelin-recognized chefowner Michael Cimarusti (also behind Connie and Ted’s) presents refined seafood dishes. Outstanding cocktails. D (Tu-Sa). 5955 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.460.4170 Map I14 SON OF A GUN > Seafood $$ Meat-loving chefs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo of Animal turn to the sea, serving small share plates such as miniature lobster rolls in a nautically themed space. L, D (daily). 8370 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.9033 Map I12 THEÍA > Greek $$$ New. Lively indoor-outdoor spot offers taramasalata and 24-karatgold-leaf-accented steak tartare, moussaka, lamb burgers and tomahawk rib-eyes. D (nightly), Br (Sa) 8048 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.591.0059 Map I12
> Information subject to change. Call or visit websites for health-related updates and hours of operation before visiting.
24 SOCALPULSE.COM SUMMER 2021
COURTESY MADRE!
New Madre! Restaurant & Mezcaleria in West Hollywood focuses more on Oaxaca than does its crosstown siblings. “Oaxacalifornian” owner Ivan Vasquez offers refined takes on specialties such as mole palenquero, decor featuring indigenous artifacts and mezcal from small producers. Fascinating multicourse tasting menus are available Th-Su evenings; a mezcal flight explores women-made mezcals. p. 30
L.A.’s Favorite outdoor Adventure Since 1934!
For over 87 years, The Original Farmers Market has delivered exceptional shopping, fresh food and fond memories to both locals and visitors alike. This bustling “must-see” landmark features an eclectic mix of nearly 100 family-owned merchants, independent artisan grocers and a worldly mix of restaurants in a breezy al-fresco setting. Adjacent to The Grove, Beverly Hills & Hollywood. Open daily.
•
6333 W. THIRD ST. LOS ANGELES 323.933.9211 FARMERSMARKETLA.COM @ FARMERSMARKETLA
•
90 MINUTES FREE PARKING IN FARMERS MARKET LOTS WITH MERCHANT PURCHASE VALIDATION OR ONE HOUR FREE PARKING AT THE GROVE
DINING
MÍRAME > Mexican $$$ New. The spirit of Mexico meets the glamour of Beverly Hills. Michelin-starred chef Joshua Gil turns out salmon-skin chicharrón, whole fried Baja snapper, Sonoma duck breast and leg confit. Lovely patio. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 419 N. Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.230.5035 Map I11
Pho dumplings at Crustacean in Beverly Hills
BEVERLY HILLS THEBLVD PRIVÉ > California $$$ Extension of THEBlvd Restaurant on topiary-filled private cobblestone boulevard; food pairings with Champagne and fanciful cocktails. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). Beverly Wilshire Hotel, 9500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.275.5200 Map J11 CRUSTACEAN > Pan-Asian $$$ Walk-on-water aquarium meanders through this gorgeous landmark serving chef Tony Nguyen’s modern Vietnamese dishes and others from Madame An’s “Secret Kitchen.” Intimate prix fixe experience Da Lat Rose is upstairs. L, D (Tu-Su). 468 N. Bedford Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.205.8990 Map I11 CULINA > Italian $$$ The ristorante offers a coastally inflected modern Rome-inspired menu, sleek crudo bar and extensive wine list. Adjacent is Vinoteca, a wine and espresso bar. B, L, D (daily). Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, 300 S. Doheny Drive, L.A., 310.860.4000 Map J12 CUT > Steak $$$$ Getty Center architect Richard Meier and celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck collaboration is the place to savor Wagyu or dry-aged Nebraska steaks. The menu is short on nostalgia, long on flavor. D (M-Sa). Beverly Wilshire, 9500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.276.8500 Map J11
JEAN-GEORGES BEVERLY HILLS > California $$$$ Michelin-spangled Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s opulent dining room presents eight-course menus on the terrace. The Rooftop by JG, its casual openair counterpart, has sweeping city views. D (Th-Su). Rooftop: B, L, D (daily). Waldorf Astoria, 9850 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.860.6666 Map J11 LE PETIT BELVEDERE > Cal-French $$$$ Alfresco brasserie by chef David Codney at posh hotel features saffron risotto croquettes, moules frites and Grand Marnier soufflé. D (W-Su). Peninsula Beverly Hills, 9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310 975 2736 Map J11 MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$$ Swanky “steakhouse with personality.” Bone-in filet reigns; warm butter cake melts in your mouth. Penthouse at Mastro’s is an upstairs lounge. D (nightly). 246 N. Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.888.8782 Map J11 MATSUHISA > Japanese $$$$ Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s relatively modest original flagship incorporates luxurious Western ingredients alongside Latin American spices. L, D (daily). 129 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.659.9639 Map I12 MAUDE > California $$$$ Aussie celeb chef Curtis Stone helms 24-seat spot with quarterly changing tasting menu with optional wine pairings. D (Tu-
26 SOCALPULSE.COM SUMMER 2021
NATALEE THAI > Thai $$ Traditional dishes such as Nutty Chicken and sole filet in red curry sauce served amid edgy decor. Veggie lovers favor the spicy maha jumlong curry. L, D (daily). 998 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.855.9380 Map J12 SANT’OLINA > Cal-Med $$$ New. Pop-up on expansive rooftop at the Beverly Hilton presents flavor-packed recipes and 360-degree city views in a space that cheers by day and shimmers at night. D (Tu-Sa), L (SaSu). 9876 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.285.1260 Map J11 SPAGO > California $$$ Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant, an L.A. institution, is a contemporary spot with a diverse daily-changing menu, from spicy tuna tartare to veal Wiener Schnitzel. D (Tu-Su). 176 N. Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.385.0880 Map I11
BRENTWOOD BALTAIRE > Steak $$$$ Chef Travis Strickland’s sophisticated restaurant offers Prime steaks, old-school charm and sun-or-stars dining on its terrace. L (M-F), D (nightly). 11647 San Vicente Blvd., L.A., 424.273.1660 Map J12 JON & VINNY’S > Italian $$ Stylish yet family-friendly diner from chef/owners Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo has it all—pastries, pizza, house-made pasta and meat entrees. Also on Fairfax Avenue. B, L, D (daily). 11938 San Vicente Blvd., L.A., 310.442.2733 Map J12
CENTURY CITY CRAFT > American $$$ New York chef Tom Colicchio of Bravo’s Top Chef brings his concept to L.A., a contemporary a la carte menu featuring fun shareable dishes. D (TuSa). 10100 Constellation Blvd., L.A., 310.279.4180 Map K11
DIN TAI FUNG > Chinese $$ Foodies and families line up for renowned dumplings filled with pork or crab or both—and a host of habit-forming sides. L, D (daily). Westfield Century City, 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 424.382.1118 Map J10
CULVER CITY NATALEE THAI > Thai $$ Traditional dishes, edgy decor. Nutty Chicken; sole filet in red curry sauce; vegetarian maha jumlong curry. L, D (daily). 10101 Venice Blvd., L.A., 310.202.7003 Map L11 VESPERTINE > Eclectic/Fusion $$$$ Chef Jordan Kahn’s pricey “gastronomical experiment” topped L.A. Times critic Jonathan Gold’s 2017 list of 101 best restaurants. Expect 18-plus courses. Advance reservations required. D (F-Su). 3599 Hayden Ave., Culver City, 323.320.4023, vespertine.la Map L12
DOWNTOWN 71ABOVE > American $$$$ Chef Javier Lopez’s swanky restaurant on the 71st floor of the U.S. Bank Tower. Skyline views and, yes, elevated contemporary dishes. A la carte at the bar, prix fixe in the dining room. D (nightly). 633 W. 5th St., 71st Floor, downtown, 213.712.2683 Map H16 BAVEL > Mediterranean $$$ Bestia chef Ori Menashe and wife/pastry chef Genevieve Gergis make Middle Eastern cuisine mainstream at their lively Arts District spot. Wide range of meze; herb-stuffed dorade with red chermoula. D (nightly). 500 Mateo St., downtown, 213.232.4966 Map J17 BESTIA > Italian $$$ “Beast”-focused dishes—e.g., roasted marrow bone with spinach gnocchetti—at multiregional Italian in the Arts District. D (nightly). 2121 E. 7th Place, downtown, 213.514.5724 Map east of J17 BRERA RISTORANTE > Italian $$$ Stylish trattoria from the Factory Kitchen team serves a daily changing, Northern Italy-inspired menu. Rice dishes, spit-roasted meats, handmade pastas. L (Tu-F), D (TuSa). 1331 E. 6th St., downtown, 213.553.8006 Map J17
CARL LARSEN
Sa). 212 S. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.859.3418 Map J11
DINING CHA CHA CHÁ > Mexican $$ New. Sibling to Terraza Cha Cha Chá in Mexico City launches lush rooftop perch in the Arts District with design elements of Mexican villa and Palm Springs. D (Tu-Su). 812 E. 3rd St., downtown, chachacha.la Map I17 DAMIAN > Cal-Baja $$$ Chef Enrique Olvera of Pujol in Mexico City—considered North America’s best restaurant— opens sophisticated producedriven spot in the Arts District. Dungeness crab gordita; pescado a la brasa. Ditroit taqueria is in the alley adjacent. D (W-Su). 2132 E. 7th Place, downtown, damiandtla.com Map I11 DRAGO CENTRO > Italian $$$ Chef Celestino Drago’s well-executed Italian fare and extensive wine list are presented in a handsome contemporary space. D (M-Sa). 525 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.228.8998 Map H16
Ye Olde King’s Head
World Famous British Pub, Restaurant, Shoppe & Bakery
L.A. PRIME > Steak $$$$ City views, wet-aged steaks and winning wine list on the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites’ 35th floor. D (Th-Su). The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, 404 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.612.4743 Map I16 ORSA & WINSTON > Fusion $$$$ Acclaimed chef/owner Josef Centeno draws on Japanese and Italian traditions for a daily changing five-course tasting menu. D (Tu-Sa). 122 W. 4th St., downtown, 213.687.0300 Map I16 PHILIPPE THE ORIGINAL > Quick Bites $ Purported birthplace of French dip sandwich, this down-home cafeteria is an L.A. institution, established in 1908. Consider the 50-cent coffee. B, L, D (daily). 1001 N. Alameda St., downtown, 213.628.3781 Map G17
British Fare, imported beers and world famous Fish & Chips. Heated outdoor patio. Stop by the gift shoppe for food and collectibles from the British Isles, including bone china, teapots, souvenir items, tea, candy, wine, freshly baked goods and much more. Open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner Freshly baked pies and pastries Happy Hour Mon-Thurs 4-7 pm; Fri 4-8 pm Afternoon Tea Wed-Sat 11:30 am-4 pm
116 Santa Monica Blvd. Santa Monica (310) 451-1402 www.yeoldekingshead.com
Q SUSHI > Japanese $$$$ The omakase-only Michelinrecognized experience at this intimate sushi bar showcases the strictly traditional artistry of chef Hiroyuki Naruke. L, D (TuSa). 521 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.225.6285 Map I16 REDBIRD > American $$$ Chef Neal Fraser offers contemporary cuisine and retro cocktails amid Spanish Baroque decor in former Cathedral of St. Vibiana rectory. D (W-Su), Br (Sa-Su )
SUMMER 2021 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 27
DINING
ANGLER > Seafood $$$$ Acclaimed Bay Area chef Joshua Skenes brings his Michelin-starred prowess to sea-life-focused luxury spot at the Beverly Center. The menu centers on a huge woodburning hearth. D (Tu-Sa). 8500 Beverly Blvd., Suite 117, L.A., 424.332.4082 Map J12
Porterhouse steak at Lucky’s Malibu
114 E. 2nd St., downtown, 213.788.1191 Map H17 ROSSOBLU > Italian $$$ Bolognese favorites in gorgeous spot at City Market South in the Fashion District. D (W-Su). 1124 San Julian St., downtown, 213.749.1099 Map J16 SAVOCA > Cal-Ital $$$ California trattoria at JW Marriott L.A. Live unveils the Cottages at Savoca, outdoor dining cottages with electric candles, cozy decor and skyline views. D (Th-Sa), B (F-Su), Br (Su). Cottages: D (Th-Sa). 900 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.765.8630 Map I15 YANG CHOW > Chinese $$ The Yun family has been offering Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine at elegant Chinatown mainstay since 1977. The Slippery Shrimp is renowned. L, D (daily). 819 N. Broadway, downtown, 213.625.0811 Map G17
HOLLYWOOD / EASTSIDE THE BARISH > Italian Steakhouse $$$ Chef/author/James Beard award winner Nancy Silverton launches first new restaurant in eight years and first at a hotel. Wood-fire-grilled beef dry-aged in house, wood-fire-baked pastas. D (W-Su). Hollywood Roosevelt 7000 Hollywood Blvd., 323.769.8888 Map H13 GWEN > American $$$$ Maude chef Curtis Stone and his brother Luke offer meatcentric tasting menus in an art deco dining room; plus European-style butcher shop. L, D (daily). 6600 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.946.7513 Map H14
MUSSO & FRANK GRILL > Steak $$$ Storied restaurant, Hollywood’s oldest, recently marked its centennial. Enjoy flannel cakes, lobster Thermidor and Welsh rabbit. Start with the martini; the drink was purportedly invented here. D (Tu-Su). 6667 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.7788 Map H13 PETIT TROIS > French $$$ Trois Mec’s neighboring Frenchbar-style spinoff offers an à la carte menu of classics such as confit-fried chicken leg, croque monsieur and omelet with Boursin cheese. A newer, larger outpost also opened in the Valley. L, D (W-Su). 718 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.468.8916 Map H13
BARTON G. THE RESTAURANT > American $$$ L.A. location of Miami spot offers showstopping food presentations in fine-dining setting. Laughing Bird Popcorn Shrimp; cotton-candy Marie Antoinette’s Head. D (nightly). 861 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.388.1888 Map I12 GOZEN BISTRO > Japanese $$$$ Director Mr. Hide presents tiered seasonal kaiseki tasting menus featuring premium ingredients, e.g. Angus-wagyu hybrid beef and exclusive small-batch junmai sakes; elaborate bento boxes to go. D (M-Sa). 521 N. La Cienega Blvd., 213.308.9393 Map J12 NOBU > Japanese $$$$ Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s flagship location—there are dozens around the world—focuses on sushi. Black cod in miso is his signature dish. D (nightly). 903 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.657.5711 Map H12
LA BREA / MID-CITY
MALIBU
JON & VINNY’S > Italian $$ Stylish modern diner offers pastries, pizza, creative vegetable dishes, pasta and meat entrees. Also in Brentwood. B, L, D (daily). 412 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.334.3369 Map B2
DUKE’S MALIBU > Seafood $$ Named for surf legend Duke Kahanamoku; daily-changing fresh fish plus tropical cocktails and ocean views. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.0777 Map west of K7
PINK’S HOT DOGS > Quick Bites $ There’s a perpetual queue at the legendary stand, open since 1939; the menu offers about 40 kinds of hot dogs and chili cheeseburgers, too. Open late. B, L, D (daily). 709 N. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.931.4223 Map I13
LUCKY’S MALIBU > Steak $$$ Second location of Montecito steakhouse serves USDA Prime steaks, live lobster and classic cocktails. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). Malibu Country Mart, 3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.317.0099 Map M8
RÉPUBLIQUE > French $$ Walter Manzke and pastry-chef wife Margarita offer bistro classcs (e.g., escargots, duck confit, steak frites) in a landmark that once housed silent-film legend Charlie Chaplin’s studio. Café: B, L (daily); D (Tu-Su). 624 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 310.362.6115 Map I13
MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB > Seafood $$$$ On-the-waterfront eatery offers Malibu views; ahi tartare and caviar starters followed by Maine lobster and steaks. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.454.4357 Map west of K7
28 SOCALPULSE.COM SUMMER 2021
NOBU MALIBU > Japanese $$$$ Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s coastal spot attracts celebs and foodies for sushi and ocean views. L, D (daily). 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.9140 Map west of K7
PASADENA / GLENDALE ALEXANDER’S STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$$ Super-luxe take on the American steakhouse—with Japanese influences. Certified Angus beef, domestic and imported wagyu; cotton candy dessert. D (nightly). 111 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, 626.486.1111 Map Q20 DIN TAI FUNG > Chinese $$ Foodies and families line up for renowned Shanghai-style dumplings filled with pork or crab or both, noodles and a host of habit-forming sides. L, D (daily). The Americana at Brand, 177 Caruso Ave., Glendale, 818.551.5561 Map U23 PERLE > French $$$ New. Bistro spills out onto the sidewalk in Old Pasadena. Chef Dean Yasharian (Chateau Marmont) serves classically inspired fare such as steak tartare with black truffles, escargots, steak frites with béarnaise. D (W-Su). 43 E. Union St., Pasadena, 626.460.8819 Map Q19
SANTA MONICA BIRDIE G’S > American $$$ James Beard award-nominated chef Jeremy Fox (Rustic Canyon) presents “regional American cookery and timeless family recipes” at Bergamot Station. D (nightly). 2421 Michigan Ave., Santa Monica, 310.310.3616 Map L9 BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE > Seafood $$$ Spot near Santa Monica Pier puts a “California twist on East Hampton summer lobster bakes,” with oysters on the half shell, clam chowder and lobster rolls. L, D (daily). 1355 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.576.3474 Map L8 BOA STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$ Way hip, way fine steakhouse. Steaks from kosher rib-eye to Japanese F1 filet mignon with choice of rubs and sauces; cutting-edge cocktails. D (nightly). 101 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.899.4466 Map M8
ALEXANDRA DEFURIO
LA CIENEGA BLVD. / RESTAURANT ROW
DINING CASSIA > Asian Fusion $$$ Asian brasserie from Rustic Canyon team is inside a 1930s building. Vietnamese pot-aufeu, grilled-pork-belly vermicelli. Esters Wine Shop & Bar adjacent. D (nightly). 1314 7th St., Santa Monica, 310.393.6699 Map L8 INTERSTELLAR > Eclectic $$$ New. Stylish casual eatery offers espresso, tacos, pastas, rice bowls, bratwurst, bulgogi, Basque cheesecake. B, L (daily); D (F-Su). 109 Broadway, Santa Monica, 310.310.8820 Map L8 RUSTIC CANYON > California $$$ Michelin-starred spot from chef/ owner Jeremy Fox offers small plates, e.g., tamari turnips, mussels pozole verde, sourdough linguine cacio e pepe. D (nightly). 1119 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.393.7050 Map L8 YE OLDE KING’S HEAD > British/Irish $$ Pub/restaurant offers English fare, known for fish and chips. B, L, D (daily); high tea (W-Sa). 116 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.451.1402 Map L8
SOUTH BAY / LONG BEACH
80 YEAR HISTORICAL L.A. LANDMARK
40 VARIETIES OF
HOT DOGS
12 VARIETIES OF
HAMBURGERS
709 N. LA BREA • LA BREA & MELROSE NOW DESIGNATED “PINK’S SQUARE”
P I N K S H O LLY WO OD.C OM SEE PINK’S FAMOUS CELEBRITY WALL OF FAME OPEN EVERYDAY FROM 9:30 A.M. TO 10 P.M. AND UNTIL MIDNIGHT ON FRIDAY AND SATURDAY.
BUNGALOW KITCHEN > New American $$ New. Chic, bohemian, eclectic spot overlooking marina by chef Michael Mina/nightlife guru Brent Bolthouse. Chile-garlic king crab; carbonara pizza; short-rib pop tart. L, D, Br (daily). 2nd & PCH, 6460 Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach, 562.431.0445 Map O17 DIN TAI FUNG > Chinese $$ Foodies and families line up for renowned Shanghai-style dumplings filled with pork, crab or both and a host of habit-forming sides. L, D (daily). Del Amo Fashion Center, 21540 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, 310.214.1175 Map D2 FISHING WITH DYNAMITE > Seafood $$$ Chef David LeFevre (Arthur J, M.B. Post) offers old-school small plates with East Coast inspirations. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1148 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.893.6299 Map L13 ISE-SHIMA > Japanese $$ Sushi/seafood inspired by Japan’s Ise Shima region at Miyako Hybrid Hotel in Old Town Torrance offers. B, L, D (daily). 21381 S. Western Ave., Torrance, 310.320.6700 Map M14
SUMMER 2021 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 29
DINING
GJELINA > Cal-Med $$$ Small plates, vegetable dishes, upscale pizzas served to chic Westsiders; one of Venice’s most popular eateries and liveliest patio. Also, Gjelina Take Away to go. B, L, D (daily). 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1429 Map N9
Shrimp-and-bonemarrow arrabbiata at ReMix in Long Beach
M.B. POST > American $$$ Chef David LeFevre serves artisanal small plates of seafood, cured meats and fresh-baked breads in former post office. D (nightly). 1142 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5405 Map L13 NOBLE BIRD ROTISSERIE > New American $$ Spot opposite marina serves 24-hour-brined slow-cooked birds. Korean-inspired G Chicken; coq au vin; and composed sides. Mecca for those with food allergies. L, D (daily). 2nd & PCH, 6460 Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach, 562.431.0445 Map O17 REMIX KITCHEN BAR > Eclectic $$ New. Chef Ross Pangilinan serves small plates—roasted Brussels sprouts with Korean chile, citrus and peanuts; Filipino fried chicken with pickled chiles and calamansi honey—and pastas including shrimp-and-bone-marrow arrabbiata. D (Tu-Sa), L (Sa-Su). Long Beach Exchange, 3860 Worsham Ave., Long Beach, 562.421.0200 Map 17
tempura in shiso leaf. D (nightly). 11941 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.760.3348 Map A1 CASTAWAY > American $$$ Fine dining with sweeping valley views from hilltop perch and steak-forward menu by Cutthroat Kitchen winner Perry Pollaci. L (W-Su), D (nightly). 1250 E. Harvard Road, Burbank, 818.848.6691 Map north of W21 JOAN’S ON THIRD > American $$ Celebrity-favored cafe offers omelets, sandwiches, salads, soups, sweets, picnic and gourmet items. B, L, D (daily). 12059 Ventura Place, Studio City, 818.201.3900 Map T18 PETIT TROIS > French $$$ French-bar-style spinoff from Trois Mec offers a la carte classics such as a confit-fried chicken leg and omelet with Boursin cheese. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 13705 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818.989.2600 Map G10
VENICE
WOOD + SALT TAVERN > Cal-Global $$ New. Contemporary dishes in Bixby Knolls; Santa Carota beef tartare, Tehachapi Rye potato gnocchi with smoked chicken ragu, wood-grilled whole dorade with Sicilian-style caponata. D (nighly), Br (Sa-Su). 4262 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach, 562.349.0111 Map M16
BULL & BUTTERFLY > Cal-Baja Steaks $$$ New. Ranching roots from Paso Robles to Guadalupe Valley evoked with ember-cooked vegetables, spit-roasted chicken and charcoal-broiled steaks —notably rib-eye cap asada. D (W-Su). The Runway, 12746 Jefferson Blvd., Playa Vista, 213.267.2900 Map N10
VALLEY
FELIX TRATTORIA > Italian $$$ Chef Evan Funke has a glassenclosed, temperature-controlled pasta laboratorio where his masterpieces take shape before diners’ eyes. D (nightly).
ASANEBO > Japanese $$$$ Michelin-rated sushi bar and restaurant in a strip mall offers memorable sushi as well as inventive fare such as uni
30 SOCALPULSE.COM SUMMER 2021
NUEVA > Mexican $$$ New. Cantina offers contemporary Mexican on a colorful patio. Highlights: hamachi and uni with local citrus, charred peanuts and fresno chile; octopus tacos; alt-agave (e.g., sotol) cocktails. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 822 Washington Blvd., Marina del Rey, 310.747.6050 Map N9 OSPI > Italian $$$ New. Spot near the boardwalk offers olive oil-glossed country toast with toppings from garlic to chilled lobster; Sardinian gnocchi with beef cheek ragu; and pizzas with cracker-thin tonda-style crusts. L, D (daily). 2025 Pacific Ave., Venice, 424.443.5007 Map N9 (V) PLANT FOOD + WINE > California $$$ Restaurant from Matthew Kenney takes a raw, locally sourced, plant-based approach to dining. Lovely patio sheltered by olive trees. Extensive organic and biodynamic selection of wines. L (W-Su), D (nightly). 1009 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1009 Map N9 VALLE > Mexican $$$ Gjelina/Gjusta team offers Oaxacan fare outdoors. Cecina tlayudas; roasted cauliflower with vegan mole; family-style barbacoa. L, D (daily). 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1429 Map N9
WEST HOLLYWOOD BOA STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$$ Way hip, way fine steaks from kosher rib-eye to Japanese F1 filet mignon with choice of rubs and sauces; plus cutting-edge cocktails. D (nightly). 9200 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2050 Map H12 DAN TANA’S > Italian $$$ New York-style restaurant in a yellow bungalow, an L.A. classic for more than half a century. Specialties include red-sauce pastas and huge steaks.
Reservations are required. D (nightly). 9071 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.275.9444 Map I11 KATANA > Japanese $$$ Robata and sushi from the Sushi Roku-Boa Steakhouse team: open-flame-grilled meat, vegetables, seafood on skewers. Stylish rooms, patio. D (nightly). 8439 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.650.8585 Map H12 MADRE! > Mexican $$ New. Restaurant and mezcaleria with Oaxacan focus offers refined takes on specialties such as mole palenquero, decor featuring indigenous artifacts, mezcal from small producers and tasting menus Th-Su evenings. L, D (daily). 801 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.850.8518 Map I13 ROKU > Japanese $$$ Sunset Strip hot spot from the Sushi Roku team presents elevated teppanyaki prepared at interactive grill tables, as well as sushi and an omakase format. L (M-F), D (nightly). 9201 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2060 Map H12 TESSE > French $$$ Raphael Francois is in the kitchen at this sophisticated spot serving classic delights updated for 21st-century L.A. Don’t miss pastry chef Sally Camacho Mueller’s soufflé dessert. L (SaSu), D (W-Su). 8500 W. Sunset Blvd., Suite B, West Hollywood, 310.360.3866 Map H12
WESTSIDE THE APPLE PAN > Quick Bites $$ The counter is popular at this tiny joint open since 1927. Aficionados wax on about the drippy Steakburger and Hickoryburger. Cash only. Open late. L, D (TuSu). 10801 W. Pico Blvd., West L.A., 310.475.3585 Map K10 STK > Steak $$$ “Vibe dining” at the One Group’s stylish steakhouse at the W hotel in Westwood includes jalapeño pickled shrimp cocktail and wagyu flat-iron steak. There’s also a USDA Black Angus meat market. D (nightly). W Los Angeles-West Beverly Hills, 930 Hilgard Ave., L.A., 310.659.3535 Map J10
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JOHN PANGILINAN
1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 424.387.8622 Map M9
THE GUIDE / ATTRACTIONS 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 Attractions....................................31 Studio Tours..................................32 Museums......................................32 Shopping.......................................34 Nightlife.........................................36 Performing Arts...........................36 Explore..........................................36
screens Disney films new and old. Pre-show preludes on Wurlitzer pipe organ. Call for tour schedule, pricing. 6838 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.7674 Map H13
Universal Unleashed!
Universal Studios Hollywood reopens with new attractions including The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!, above, inspired by Illumination’s blockbuster The Secret Life of Pets films. Using hyperrealistic media and projection mapping, the ride suggests what your pets might really be doing when you’re not at home. Jurassic World—The Ride introduces the colossal, fully articulated dinosaur Indominus rex, who stakes her claim in battle with archrival Tyrannosaurus rex. p. 32 ATTRACTIONS
COURTESY UNIVERSAL STUDIOS
AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC Focus is on Pacific Ocean sea life. Touch the ocean’s predators in Shark Lagoon, see jellies in the Wonders of the Deep gallery, penguins, sea lions and 11,000 other animals. M-Th 9 a.m.-6 p.m. F-Su 9 a.m.-8 p.m. $27-$37, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map O16 BATTLESHIP IOWA MUSEUM Former battleship permanently docked. Exhibit follows ship’s history through World War II, Korean War and Cold War. Missile decks, bridge, captain’s cabin. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; last ticket sold at 4 p.m. $11.95$19.95, under 6 free. Pacific
Battleship Center, USS Iowa BB-61, 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro, 877.446.9261 Map O15 CATHEDRAL OF OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS Stunning contemporary cathedral by Spanish architect Rafael Moneo, opposite the Music Center. M-F 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sa 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Su 7 a.m.-6 p.m. 555 W. Temple St., downtown, 213.680.5200 Map H17 CHINATOWN Ornate architecture, dim sum, traditional and trendy eateries and shops with Eastern wares surrounding a central plaza. Art and antiques on Chung King Road. Between Cesar E. Chavez Avenue and Bernard Street, Yale and Spring streets, downtown Map G17
DESCANSO GARDENS Coast live oaks, roses, Ancient Forest, Japanese Garden and camellia garden. M-F 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sa-Su 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $5-$15, under 5 free. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, 818.949.4200 Map Q19 DISNEYLAND Mickey Mouse’s theme park. Attractions include new land Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and classics Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean. New super-hero land Avengers Campus opens at adjacent Disney California Adventure. Call for hours. $98-$154, under 3 free. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map D6 EL CAPITAN THEATRE 1926 Spanish-style movie palace
EL PUEBLO DE LOS ANGELES Birthplace of Los Angeles; the site of this historical monument dates to 1781. Historic buildings, 11 of which are open to the public, include 1818 Avila Adobe, L.A.’s oldest. 125 Paseo de la Plaza, downtown, 213.628.1274 Map H17 IMMERSIVE VAN GOGH “Step inside” the works of postImpressionist artist Vincent van Gogh in an hour-long, timedentry, walk-through digital-art experience. Call for schedule. $40-50. Location TBA. 844.307.4644, vangoghla.com JAPAN HOUSE Japanese art, design, gastronomy, innovation and technology at gallery, shop, cafe, restaurant, library and event venues. Daily 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Hollywood & Highland, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., L.A., 800.516.0565, japanhouse.jp/losangeles Map H13 L.A. LIVE Entertainment center is home to Grammy Museum, Microsoft Theater and 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 LEGOLAND Resort with 60 rides, shows, attractions,
>Information subject to change: Call or check websites for health-related updates and to confirm hours before visiting.
SUMMER 2021 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 31
ATTRACTIONS
aquarium, Legoland Hotel and Legoland Castle Hotel. Visit legoland.com for hours, packages, accommodations and discounts. Parking $25-$35. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.5346 Map southeast of F6
PORSCHE EXPERIENCE CENTER Drivers 21 and up pilot latest-model Porsches for 90 minutes on a 4-mile track with a driving coach at 53-acre center. Plus simulators, store and restaurant 917. 19800 S. Main St., Carson, 888.204.7474 Map M15
LOS ANGELES COUNTY ARBORETUM & BOTANIC GARDEN Peafowl roam the grounds and roost overhead at this idyllic 127-acre garden. Daily 9 a.m.-7 p.m. (last admission 6:30 p.m). $5-$15, under 5 free. Free third Tuesday of the month. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, 626.821.3222 Map Q22
QUEEN MARY Historic ocean liner permanently berthed in Long Beach Harbor offers tours, shops, a hotel, art deco lounge, 4D theater and restaurants. Schedule, hours and prices at queenmary.com. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 877.342.0738 Map O16
LOS ANGELES ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDENS The zoo, located in Griffith Park, is home to 250 animal species, many of them endangered, living among immersive habitats and lush gardens. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Ticket sales cease one hour before closing. $17-$22, under 2 free. Griffith Park, 5333 Zoo Drive, L.A., 323.644.4200 Map T23 MADAME TUSSAUDS HOLLYWOOD Get close to the stars: 125 figures include celebrities, pop icons, actors and actresses; Marvel Super Heroes 4D. Daily 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $30-$46, under 3 free. 6933 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.798.1670 Map H13 THE ORIGINAL FARMERS MARKET Landmark destination for both locals and visitors 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
RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT! ODDITORIUM Three hundred displays feature curiosities gathered by traveler Robert Ripley in the 1930s. M-Th 11 a.m.-8 p.m., F-Sa 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Su 10 a.m.-8 p.m. $10-$15, under 3 free. 6780 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.466.6335 Map H13 RONALD REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM Visit Air Force One Pavilion, see full-size replica of White House Oval Office. W-Su 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $6-$16, under 2 free. 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, 800.410.8354 Map northwest of A1 SEAWORLD Adventure park with thousands of marine creatures, reptiles and birds. Open daily; call for hours, ticket packages, discounts. $94, under 3 free. Parking $25. 500 SeaWorld Drive, San Diego, 619.222.4732 Map southeast of F6 TCL CHINESE THEATRE Movie palace (formerly Grauman’s Chinese) and Walk of Fame featuring stars’ handprints and footprints. 6925 Hollywood
32 SOCALPULSE.COM SUMMER 2021
Blvd., Hollywood, 323.461.3331, tclchinesetheatres.com Map H13 UNIVERSAL CITYWALK Dining, shopping, entertainment promenade includes eateries Dongpo Kitchen, LudoBird and Voodoo Doughnut; boutiques and novelty stores; Universal Cinema and Imax; and simulated skydiving wind tunnel iFly Hollywood. Call for hours. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.4455 Map U20 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD Movie-inspired theme park. The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash! and spectacularly realistic dinosaur Indominus rex at Jurassic World—The Ride are new. Plus Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Studio tour includes King Kong 360 3-D, Fast & Furious—Supercharged. 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 the city of Hollywood’s longest-operating and only remaining major studio. Reservations are recommended. Daily 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Studio Tour $60, under 10 not admitted; VIP Tour $189, under 10 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 including The Wizard of Oz and Spider-Man were filmed. Reservations, photo ID required. M-W, F 9:30 a.m.2:30 p.m.; Th 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. $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, expert tour guide, gourmet lunch, visits to Will & Grace set. For hours/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 TV and film studio includes backlots, prop warehouse, the real Friends Central Perk set, Batmobiles and observation of filming when possible. CalTech Physics Lab Cafeteria. Deluxe tour available. Reservations recommended; photo ID required. Daily 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $55-$68, under 8 not admitted. Parking $12. 3400 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank, 877.492.8687 Map U20
MUSEUMS 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-Su 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $6-$14, under 3 free. 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.667.2000 Map H14 THE BROAD Architecturally significant museum built by philanthropists and art collectors Eli and Edythe Broad contains more than 2,000 spectacular works of contemporary art. Tu-W 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Th-F 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sa 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Su 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. See thebroad.org for special-exhibition ticket prices and extended hours. Online reservations encouraged. 221 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.232.6200 Map H16 CALIFORNIA AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM Exhibits showcasing the history, culture and art of African Americans, with an emphasis on California and the Western U.S. Tu-Su 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Parking $12, $15 after 5 p.m. Cash only. 600 State Drive, Exposition Park, L.A., 213.744.7432 Map M8 CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER Interactive exhibits for budding scientists; Imax theater. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Permanent gallery, free; admission for Imax varies. Parking $12, $15 after 5 p.m. Cash only. 700 Exposition Park Drive, Exposition Park, L.A., 323.724.3623 Map K15 CRAFT CONTEMPORARY International folk and craft art museum. Tu-F 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sa-Su 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $7-$9; pay what you can Su, under 10 free. 5814 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.937.4230 Map J13
ROBERT WEDEMEYER
Ai Weiwei: Trace at Skirball Cultural Center
ATTRACTIONS 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 a.m.5:30 p.m.; Sa 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free. Parking $15, $10 after 3 p.m. 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 a.m.5 p.m. Free. Parking $15, $10 after 3 p.m. Advance timed tickets required for entry. 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades, 310.440.7300 Map K7 GRAMMY MUSEUM Museum on L.A. Live campus explores music, the creative and recording processes and Grammy Awards history. F-Su noon-6 p.m. $13-16, under 6 free. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.765.6800 Map I15 HAMMER MUSEUM UCLAaffiliated venue presents traveling exhibitions and installations and permanent collection. Through Aug. 1: biennial Made in L.A. 2020: a version. Th-Su noon-6 p.m. Free; includes pass to the Huntington for concurrent biennial. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 310.443.7000 Map J10
PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM
WE'RE OPEN!
Tour Through Air Force One 27000. Explore the Oval Office. Touch a piece of the Berlin Wall. And so much more.
Advanced ticket purchase and masks required. 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, CA 93065 | REAGANLIBRARY.COM | 805.522.2977
HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART MUSEUM, AND BOTANICAL GARDENS Art, buildings and grounds with more than a dozen themed gardens; several dining concepts; gallery; and an education and visitor center. Through Aug. 1: Made in L.A. 2020: a version. W-M 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $13-$29, under 4 free. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, 626.405.2141 Map R21 JAPANESE AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM Promotes understanding of ethnic diversity with a focus on the Japanese American experience. F-Su 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $6-$12, under 6 free. 100 N. Central Ave., downtown, 213.625.0414 Map H17 KIDSPACE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Museum for kids ages through 10 offers more than 40 hands-on exhibits, programs and events on almost 3.5 acres of indoor and outdoor space. Th-Su 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $13-$15, under 1 free. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena, 626.449.9144 Map Q18
SUMMER 2021 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 33
SHOPPING LA BREA TAR PITS AND MUSEUM Paleontologists uncover ice age L.A. Everbubbling tar pits make up the world’s most famous fossil-excavation site. W-Su 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $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. The modern art collection gets a new presentation. M-Tu, Th 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; F 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sa-Su 10 a.m.-7 p.m. $10-$21, under 13 free. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6000 Map J13 MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART Premier contemporary art museum in two facilities: Arata Isozaki-designed MOCA Grand Avenue and Geffen Contemporary. M, W, F 11 a.m.6 p.m.; Th 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sa-Su 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 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
with photo ID, under 19 free. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.449.6840 Map Q19
MUSEUM OF LATIN AMERICAN ART Leading museum of modern and contemporary Latin American art and Robert Gumbiner Sculpture Garden. Tu-F 10 a.m.5 p.m.. $7-$10, under 12 free. 628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach, 562.437.1689 Map O6
PETERSEN AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM 135 vintage cars, trucks and motorcycles in permanent and rotating exhibits. W-Su 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $11-$16, under 4 free. Tours of newly expanded and renovated vault $20-$30, under 10 not admitted. 6060 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.930.2277 Map J13
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY Thirty-three million objects, from dinosaur fossils to fish. Highlights include the 3.5-acre Nature Gardens, interactive Nature Lab and Tyrannosaurus rex growthseries exhibit. Daily 9:30 a.m.5 p.m. $5-$12, under 3 free. 900 Exposition Blvd., Exposition Park, L.A., 213.763.3466 Map K15
SKIRBALL CULTURAL CENTER Venue highlights the American Jewish experience through engaging exhibitions and programs. The awardwinning Noah’s Ark attraction is great for tots. Tu-F noon-5 p.m.; Sa-Su 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $7-$12, under 2 free, free Thursdays. 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A., 310.440.4500 Map G9
NORTON SIMON MUSEUM Premiere collection of Renaissance to 20th-century masterworks, South and Southeast Asian art spanning 2,000 years, and sculpture garden. Th-M noon-5 p.m. $12-$15; students
SHOPPING
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THE AMERICANA AT BRAND Downtown Glendale retail, dining and entertainment hot spot from the creators of the Grove has a Main Street
U.S.A. atmosphere and trolley. Louis Vuitton, Indochino, & Other Stories are among the 90 or so stores. Dining options include Din Tai Fung, Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina and new Nonna’s Empanadas. 889 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.637.8900 Map U23 BEVERLY CENTER Trendsetting mall near West Hollywood 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 from chef Joshua Skenes, Farmhouse, Yardbird Southern Table & Bar, Pitchoun!, Eggslut, Marugame Udon and Easy’s diner. 8500 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.854.0070 Map I12 THE BLOC Vibrant open-air urban center encompasses a full city block along L.A.’s iconic 7th Street corridor and boasts exciting dining (Joey DTLA and District), shopping (Macy’s and Uniqlo) and entertainment (Alamo Drafthouse Cinema) options. 700 W. 7th St.,
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189 The Grove Drive, L.A., 888.315.8883 Map I13
CITADEL OUTLETS Assyrian architecture south of downtown along the Golden State (5) Freeway; the center offers discounted clothes from Coach, Guess, H&M, Banana Republic, Levi’s and Converse, to name just a few. 100 Citadel Drive, L.A., 323.888.1724 Map B4
MALIBU COUNTRY MART Outdoor center with upscale boutiques such as Paige and Victoire, Cie Sparks Salon and restaurants including new Lucky’s steakhouse. Malibu Lumber Yard and Malibu Village are adjacent. 3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.7300 Map northwest of K7
FREE MARKET New retail and dining concept with a gallery vibe at Runway includes Period Correct vintage motorsports apparel, Teressa Foglia hats, Alchemy Works jewelry and Joliet Café & Bar. 12775 Millennium Drive, Playa Vista, 310.862.9461 Map N10 THE GROVE Outdoor center has 40 shops including Apple, Nordstrom and Charlotte Tilbury, eateries such as Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill, 189 by Dominique Ansel (creator of the Cronut) and Ladurée plus cinema and trolley in a setting inspired by a grand old downtown. Adjacent to Original Farmers Market.
PALISADES VILLAGE New shopping destination from Caruso (the Grove, Americana at Brand) is an upscale walkable village with more than 40 shops and boutiques including Amazon Books, Jennifer Meyer and Veronica Beard plus dining options and a restored movie theater. 15225 Palisades Village Lane, Pacific Palisades, 310.525.1380 Map K7 PLATFORM Curated cultfavorite retailers (Magasin, The Edit by Freda Salvador + Janessa Leoné, Velvet, Aesop, Tenoverten, Bird) in up-and-coming Hayden Tract neighborhood. Dining options include Loqui and Brook-
lyn import Roberta’s. Plus fitness destination SoulCycle. Next to Metro Expo Line station. 8850 Washington Blvd., Culver City, platformla.com Map M11 THE POINT Small outdoor shopping center features retailers including Planet Blue, Lucky Brand and Madewell as well as eateries Umi by Hamasaku and True Food Kitchen. 850 S. Sepulveda Blvd., El Segundo, 310.414.5280, thepointsb.com Map L13 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. 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, 310.394.1049 Map L8 SOUTH COAST PLAZA Highend center in Orange County boasts nearly 300 boutiques (Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci and Givenchy) and 40 restaurants, including Din Tai Fung and Water Grill. Concierge at four
locations. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map E6 THIRD STREET PROMENADE Pedestrian-only multi-block shopping zone includes shops (Cotton On, Anthropologie, Zara), kiosks and an array of 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., fine art gallery Galerie Michael, restaurant 208 Rodeo and new bespoke parfumerie Henry Jacques. 9478 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.247.7040 Map J11 THE VILLAGE AT WESTFIELD TOPANGA Lifestyle destination opposite Westfield Topanga shopping center—trolley service connects the two—offers stylish retailers such as Rent the Runway and Fabletics, restaurants, a spa, a yoga studio and children’s play area. 6250 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills, 818.594.8732 Map west of A1
NATALE E T H A I
C U I S I N E
“Readers’ Choice Award” ~LA Times “Best of The West Side” ~The Argonaut
“The Best of Culver City” 11 Years in a Row ~Culver City News
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
SUMMER 2021 WHERE TRAVELER LOS ANGELES 35
NIGHTLIFE
UPSTAIRS Bar with stunning city views is atop the Ace Hotel within the historic United Artists Building. 929 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.623.3233 Map I16
PERFORMING ARTS
Hollywood Bowl
WESTFIELD AT LAX Retail and dining (Fred Segal, Petrossian, MAC Cosmetics, SeaLegs Wine Bar) in LAX’s Tom Bradley International Terminal and terminals 1, 2, 3 and 6. 380 World Way, L.A., 310.646.1770, westfieldairports. com/lax Map O10 WESTFIELD CENTURY CITY Open-air shopping center has more than 175 stores, including Tiffany & Co., new Âme Jewelry and Rodd & Gunn for men; AMC multiplex with Imax; Dreamscape Immersive VR adventures; food-court atrium and terrace; restaurants Zinque and Din Tai Fung and Italian marketplace Eataly. 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 310.277.3898 Map J11
NIGHTLIFE 1 OAK Strikingly seductive, artfilled club from New York. 9039 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.274.2326 Map H12 THE ABBEY David Cooley’s world-famous gay bar and nightclub. Newer concept the Chapel at the Abbey is adjacent. 692 N. Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.289.8410 Map H12 ARTS DISTRICT BREWING CO. Pouring With Heart’s Arts District brewery and tasting room with classic bar games and an outdoor patio. 828 Traction Ave., downtown, 213.519.5887 Map I17 AVALON HOLLYWOOD Dance club/concert venue with storied past including the Beatles’ first West Coast performance. Intimate club Bardot is upstairs. 1735 Vine St., Hollywood, 323.462.8900 Map H14
BLIND BARBER Craft-cocktaildriven speak-easy at the rear of a barbershop. New in Highland Park. 10797 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.841.6679; 5715 N. Figueroa St., L.A., 323.739.0315 Map L11, S18 BOOTSY BELLOWS H.Wood Group nightclub with burlesque shows and other live entertainment boasts a gorgeous new Palm Springsinspired design. 9229 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.274.7500 Map H12 THE BUNGALOW Seaside cottage-style nightspot with gourmet bites by Fig Restaurant. The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, 101 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.899.8530 Map L8 LA DESCARGA Cuban-inspired rum bar, cigar lounge, live music, burlesque-inspired acts. Reservations recommended. Dress code. 1159 N. Western Ave., L.A., 323.466.1324 Map east of H14 MELROSE UMBRELLA CO. Rustic-chic space with creative cocktails and inventive fare. 7465 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.951.0709 Map I12 THE NICE GUY The H.Wood Group’s reservations-only, Italianinspired restaurant and mixology lounge. 401 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.360.9500 Map I12 SEVEN GRAND Whiskey bar with tongue-in-cheek hunt-club decor. Intimate, hidden Bar Jackalope features 120 premium whiskeys. 515 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.614.0737 Map I16 THE SPARE ROOM Gaming parlor and cocktail lounge with
36 WHERE SOCALPULSE.COM TRAVELER SAN FRANCISCO SUMMER 2021 SPRING 2020
THE FORD Outdoor amphitheater in the Cahuenga Pass presents music, dance and theater events. Summer season TBA; schedule at theford.com. 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. E., Hollywood, 323.461.3673 Map G14 HOLLYWOOD BOWL Iconic amphitheater in the Hollywood Hills is one of the best outdoor venues in the U.S.; summer home of the L.A. Philharmonic. Summer season TBA; schedule at hollywoodbowl.com. 2301 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.850.2000 Map G13 WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL Architectural masterpiece by Frank Gehry is the fourth hall of the Los Angeles Music Center and home of the L.A. Philharmonic. 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 323.850.2000 Map H16
EXPLORE AMTRAK Train and bus service within Los Angeles County, along the coast and to other major California locations as well as nationwide connections. 800.872.7245, amtrak.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 CATALINA EXPRESS Yearround boat service to Catalina Island. Daily departures from Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point. Reservations recommended. Call or check website for hours and prices. 800.481.3470, catalinaexpress.com CITY CRUISES ANCHORED BY HORNBLOWER Cocktail, sunset dinner and champagnebrunch cruises include dancing and harbor views. Fisherman’s Village, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina
del Rey, 855.290.0383, cityexperiences.com Map O9 DODGER STADIUM TOUR Visit the field, dugout, Vin Scully Press Box and Lexus Dugout Club, home to World Series trophies, at legendary stadium. $15-$20, under 4 free. 1000 Vin Scully Ave., L.A., 866.363.4377 Map G17 DOWNTOWN ART WALK Self-guided gallery and artist-studio tour and cultural event in 12 blocks bordered by Spring, Main, 2nd and 9th streets in downtown Los Angeles. Second Thursday of every month. Check website for hours. Free. 213.617.4929, ext. 206, downtownartwalk.org Map I16 L.A. CONSERVANCY Downtown preservation group offers more than a dozen socially distanced walking tours with architectural focus such as Art Deco, Historic Downtown, Modern Skyline, Past Meets Present, and Union Station. Plus self-guided driving tour Rolling Through the ‘70s. 213.623.2489, laconservancy.org METRO City bus, light rail, subway. Rail lines connect downtown, Santa Monica, Hollywood, Pasadena, Long Beach; Red Line from Union Station to Hollywood and San Fernando Valley; Gold Line from Union Station to Pasadena and Arcadia; 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. Most rail lines (including Orange County, San Bernardino and Ventura County) begin at Union Station in downtown L.A. 800.371.5465, metrolinktrains.com STARLINE TOURS Tours of movie stars’ homes, beaches and theme parks. The City Sightseeing double-decker tour makes more than 70 stops. Prices vary. Tours begin at TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., L.A., 800.959.3131, starlinetours.com Map H13
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bowling lanes and fancy drinks. The Hollywood Roosevelt, 7000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.769.7296 Map H13
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DISCOVER THE HIDDEN JEWEL O F B E V E R LY H I L L S
BEYOND THE HORIZON The magical purple blue hue of silky chalcedony and diamonds in this series of treasures conjures images of a gorgeous horizon over the ocean.
tell the world you love Leon’s
STORE HOURS: MONDAY - SATURDAY: 10AM - 6PM
308 NORTH BEVERLY DR. BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90210 310 246 0277 LEONSBEVERLYHILLS.COM