Park Labrea News & Beverly Press Dining and Entertainment 2013

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Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Dining & Entertainment Magazine

Discovering L.A.’s Culinary Treasures

L

os Angeles is known worldwide as a city of innovators, risktakers and entertainers, and L.A.’s culinary scene is no exception. Dining in the City of Angels is continually evolving with ever-changing trends including sous vide and macrobiotic cooking.

Chefs are now focusing more on healthy eating, using field-to-table ingredients and expanding the vast array of fruits and vegetables, including goji berries, black radish, and fiddleheads. Interesting and delicious vegan and gluten free offerings are now widely available across the city. Restaurants in L.A. have the advantage of local artisanal breads, cheeses and charcuterie. Local craft brewing and distilling has made a huge impact on the beverage scene as well.

Meat choices run the gamut of exotic fish and game, poultry, heirloom pork and beef with names like Kobe, Waygu and Piedmontese. It’s all about choice in L.A. The food truck craze seems to have mellowed with diners opting

movie guide. We’ve highlighted a few restaurant favorites, and ventured a little out of the city limits for those wanting to explore new places.

When you visit the establishments you’ll find inside, please mention that you read about them

3 June 2013

here. We would appreciate it.

Now let’s see what’s on the menu!

Bon Appetit!

Karen and Michael Villalpando Publishers

What’s on the Menu Dynamic DUO

pg. 4

Five Star Dining at the Four Seasons Wailea

Host a wine tasting party

pg. 6

Sommelier Edgar Poureshagh summer suggestions

for a more civilized manor of satisfying their hunger. This bodes well for the brick and mortar establishments that have invested heavily in the community. Gourmet burgers are still luring patrons searching for “the best” and specialty cocktails are big, making mixologists newly minted celebrities.

Our second annual Dining & Entertainment magazine serves up an enticing array of all Los Angeles has to offer – from terrace dining and celebrity chefs, popular summer time destinations like the Hollywood Bowl and Dodger Stadium, and a complete summer

Peninsula Roof Garden Nick & Stef’s

pg. 8 pg. 10

Girl and a Grill

Zengo Terrace Dining

pg. 12 pg. 14

The Roof at The Wilshire Hotel & Katana

FigOly El Coyote Welcome to the jungle!

pg. 16 pg. 18 pg. 20

Fun this summer at Los Angeles Zoo

Downtown L.A. Dining

pg. 22

Kendall’s Brasserie, Bottega Louie & Soleto Trattoria

Greek Theatre Summer Movie Guide Korean BBQ Kings of the craft

pg. 24 pg. 26-29 pg. 30 pg. 34

Enjoy a brew or two at L.A.’s craft beer pubs KAREN viLLALPANDO Editor and Publisher

MiCHAEL viLLALPANDO Publisher

jiLL WEiNLEiN Restaurant Writer

LAURA vAiLLANCOURT Advertising Salesperson

AARON BLEviNS EDWiN FOLvEN

EMiLY viLLALPANDO Editorial Assistant

TiM POSADA Staff Writers

MAxWELL ROWE Graphic Designer

The Park Labrea News & Beverly Press are weekly newspapers publishing since 1946.

The Dining & Entertainment magazine is a special edition publishing on June 6, 2013 5150 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 330 P.O. Box 36036, Los Angeles, CA 90036 323.933.5518 • www.beverlypress.com

Pampa’s Grill

pg. 38

Southeast Asian L.A.’s way

A Whole New Blue

pg. 40

New food & craft brews, too

Celebrity Chefs Summer at LACMA Why Run when you can fly?

pg. 42 pg. 44 pg. 46

Sky Zone - the ultimate work-out

Hollywood Bowl

pg. 48

L.A.’s own superbowl

Normandie Bakery Oui, oui, it’s tres French!

pg. 50

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4 June 2013

Dining & Entertainment Magazine

Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Dynamic DUO by kAren villAlpAndo

A silver anniversary celebration

F

ive-star hotel dining in Los Angeles offers a plethora of choices – The Montage, The Peninsula, and the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire, just to name a few.

Recently, we flew over the Pacific to Maui and experienced the five-star, fabulous DUO at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea.

The restaurant is set poolside with low lighting and magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean. The trade winds blow gently through the umbrella-lined patio. DUO is aptly named, as it is a steak and seafood restaurant, helmed by award-winning Executive Chef Roger Stettler and chef de cuisine Bryan

smoky-rich mushrooms and sweetness of the apples complemented the cheeks perfectly. The sommelier paired the dish with a buttery Peter Michael chardonnay, a memorable wine.

Since DUO is a steak and seafood establishment, we obliged and ordered a Kobe beef strip steak and a lobster tail, split between the two of us. I was tempted to order the beef with the same mushroom ragout, that I loved so much, but our waiter steered me in the photo by Deborah Jones, courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Maui direction of the Maytag blue cheese DUO offers many cuts of beef, including the always sauce, which was an excellent choice. delectable filet mignon.

A side of white cheddar and truffle macaroni and cheese was Four Seasons Maui, and promised ourselves a served in a cast iron skillet and was return trip. The resort is luxurious with an definitely decadent, and oh-so-good. emphasis on service and amenities that are inGrilled asparagus was a refreshing clusive, not a la carte. An adult-only serenity bite of green and tamed the richness pool is the newest addition to the resort, to of our dinner. add another option for lounging to the family A lovely 2008 Beaulieu Vineyards pool and main, center pool area. And of Rutherford cabernet sauvignon was a course the beach is just steps away. superb pairing to the Kobe.

Until we meet again, Four Seasons Maui We lingered over our last glass, … Aloha! 3900 Wailea Alanui Drive Wailea, soaking up the moment, feeling very Maui Hawaii U.S.A. 96753. +1 (800) 311satisfied and happy.

0630.

The expertlytrained wait staff attended to our wants, approaching the table seamlessly. Our charming server, Chad, engaged photo courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Maui us in funny banFresh oysters are perfect way to begin an evening of ter without being fine dining at DUO. too intrusive. Although we deBeneke. clined dessert – due to We were celebrating our 25th wedding anthe heavenly mac and niversary, and appropriately started with a cheese – he presented a glass of champagne and oysters on the half ribbon of white chocoshell. late decorated with Kumamoto oysters from Washington State “Happy Anniversary” were served with Hawaiian sea salt, lemon and a few chocolate wedges and a traditional cocktail sauce, as truffles to persuade us to well as a soy yuzu vinaigrette, a perfect open- nibble a bit. We took a ing act to the chef’s culinary performance. leisurely stroll back to For the next course, we dined on braised our room, reflecting on Kurobuta pork cheeks with apple and sage a perfect night. bread pudding and Hamakua mushroom We were only able to The perfect place to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary ragout. The pork was ultra-tender and the spend a few days at the – the Four Seasons Resort Maui.

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Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Dining & Entertainment Magazine

BEEF. Serve your guests only the highest quality beef, lamb, pork and poultry. We carry Piedmontese Beef, Prime Beef, Colorado Lamb and Niman Ranch Heirloom Pork.

Our meats are hormone and steriod free, naturally raised, grass fed. We supply the finest restaurants in Los Angeles.

At your next dinner party, present Marconda’s meats at your table, and impress your guests.

6333 W. Third St. • Farmers Market • 323.938.5131 Family Owned at the Farmers Market for 72 Years www.marcondas.com

5 June 2013

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Dining & Entertainment Magazine

6 June 2013

Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

How to host a wine tasting party at home By eDgAR PouReShAgh Guest Columnist and Sommelier

I

f you’re curious about wine and have a knack for experimenting, create a little amateur wine tasting group to enhance your summer. Don’t let its pretentious reputation fool you; wine tasting is easy and fun.

Let’s enjoy the beautiful evenings, and what better way to do so than with wine in hand.

Here is a quick tutorial on the do’s and don’ts of wine tasting.

The most important thing to do here is to not overdo the wine selections. If you are having 20 guests over, you might be inclined to want to have 20 different wines to try… however, this will create a lot of spoilage, and people will quickly deplete the favorite wines. Instead, I recommend no more than 12 wines (ten is ideal). I would suggest having five to six reds, three to four whites and one sparkling wine or champagne.

Plan on having your guests drink two glasses of wine each, which is a little less than half a bottle. So, for forty guests, expect to purchase around twenty bottles of wine.

Often when I am asked to help create these events, I will create a potluck list for each guest to bring. The trick here is to not spend too much on the wines. You do not necessarily want the best examples of each type of wine. Plan on spending ten to 20 dollars per

bottle. There are many hidden gems that cost around 12 dollars.

Here is where you can get adventurous and really create an experience for your guests.

Find a reputable retailer or sommelier and enlist their help. Step out of your comfort zone.

I often like to choose a specific part of the world (like “The Wines of Northern Italy”) and really delve into the different offerings.

Your inclination might be to provide your guests the wines you love, but with events like this it is more important to create a meaningful experience.

Sample tasting lineup for the wines of Northern Italy: Franciacorta from Lombardy (Sparkling Chardonnay) Kerner from Alto Adige (White) Sauvignon Blanc from Alto Adige (White) Sylvaner from Alto Adige (White) Dolcetto from the Piedmont (Red) Barbera D’Asti from the Piedmont (Red) Langhe Nebbiolo from the Piedmont (Red) Barbaresco (Nebbiolo) from the Piedmont (Red) Brachetto D’Acqui (Sparkling Red Dessert Wine)

A tasting like this will be a lot of fun, and really give your guests a great understanding

photo by Brett Jones, courtesy of Wine Folley

Nebbiolo-based wines like Barolo and Barbaresco are from Northwestern Italy.

of what wines from that area are all about. Be safe, have fun, and enjoy life one grape at a time!

Edgar Poureshagh

Summertime & Wine Some see a glass as half empty; others see it as being half full. I look at a glass and wonder what I want to put in it. My drink, and career of choice, is wine. Being that my humble establishment, 3Twenty Wine Lounge, has enjoyed two successful years on the Miracle Mile, I am starting to realize more and more that the beauty of serving others is much more about the personal interaction, than it is about the experience of owning a restaurant or touting the label of ‘sommelier.’ My biggest success, as a wine steward, is to make the moment more enjoyable.

Wine, when chosen well, should not be the highlight of an evening, but instead a perfect complement. Wine can accentuate flavors, be a muse for pondering, and the means by which one may smile for just a little longer. The moment should define the wine, and not the other way around.

If you are enjoying an outdoor or summertime event, I urge you to take the time to think about what wine would pair best with the environment, as well as the cuisine. When sitting in the hot sun, an oaky and alcoholic cabernet sauvignon is much too heavy. Instead select a cool and refreshing Sancerre (Sancerre is a sauvignon blanc made in the Loire Valley of France).

For those who really love red wines, look for simple red wines, with very low tannins to enjoy on a warm summer evening. There are some red wines that actually taste quite good chilled, like Barbera, Bonnarda, and Grenache.

Chill to about 50 degrees for the perfect temperature without numbing too much of the wine’s flavor.

If you ever need help with selecting of a proper wine pairing for your dish, do not hesitate to email me at edgar@320southwine.com.

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Dining & Entertainment Magazine

8 June 2013

Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Roof Garden at the Peninsula Hotel

By Jill Weinlein

I

naturally gravitate to the comfortable seating around the fire pit at the Peninsula Hotel’s Roof Garden.

Tucked away near the magnificent Peninsula Spa is the alfresco bar making some of the best creative cocktails in Beverly Hills.

I’ve enjoyed a Sunset on the Roof martini, speckled jalapeno margarita and frozen lemonade. Taking a sip or two while watching the sunset is an optimal recipe to unwind and relax.

Executive Chef David Codney cooks up The Peninsula’s annual outdoor summer barbeque each weekend during the summer, beginning June 8.

Start your terrace dining with a bowl of chilled cucumber soup

with white hearts of palm, sprigs of cilantro and citrus tapioca. In the center is a slightly spicy cucumber-melon sorbet. It is refreshing and full of delightful flavors, an ideal summer appetizer.

The terrace menu includes dishes like smoked baby back ribs, Char Sui BBQ duck tacos, Prime skirt steak, grilled tuna and a 12 oz. Australian Rock lobster tail with yuzu and white soy butter.

Beef from the grill menu is from local butcher Harvey’s Guss Meat Co. in Culver City. Grill Chef Brandon Weaver rubs the marbled meat with 40 different herbs and spices, and cooks it to perfection.

He likes to add sides of purple Okinawa sweet potatoes with an orange-ginger butter sauce and

photo courtesy of The Peninsula Hotel

The comfortable seating around the fire pit is a perfect place to relax and unwind with a glass of wine or cocktail.

Brandon’s barbecue pickled salad with fennel, carrot, Kirby cucumbers, radish and tomatoes.

Splurge and enjoy a piece of Ted’s caramelized honey corn bread. It’s delicious.

Summer desserts include coconut and green apple gelato that tastes exactly like the actual fruit.

Dining on the terrace at The

Peninsula Beverly Hills is a treat you should allow yourself at least once this summer. Parking is valet.

9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd.

(310)975-2855.

Terrace Dining

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L.A.’s Top Dog Since 1939

The Pink Family thanks Los Angeles for 73 years with a 36 Hot Dog Variety “Salute” and a dozen varieties of Hamburgers - YUMMY! Still Family Owned & Operated since 1939

Corner of La Brea & Melrose

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10 June 2013

Dining & Entertainment Magazine

W

hen craving a really good steak, where do you go?

There are a few great steakhouses in Los Angeles, and Nick & Stef’s in downtown Los Angeles is one of the finest.

The Executive Chef Megan Logan, a young, gorgeous blonde with a sweet attitude, enjoys grilling on the terrace once a week during the summer. The aroma of grilled meats and vegetables allure workers to stop by before driving home after a day at the office.

Her steaks are so tender and flavorful.

Her secret? The dry aging room. Guests can view the floor to ceiling glass room holding meat of every cut for a minimum of 28-days at 35 degrees with 85 percent humidity. During this process, the moisture evaporates from the muscle, creating a more intense absorption of beef flavor and taste. Also, the natural enzymes break down the connective tissue in the muscle, allowing the beef to become more tender.

The New York steak is one of their best sellers, and is served with three different sauces: an incredibly rich and delicious Maytag blue cheese, a decadent béarnaise and a lighter red wine bordelaise sauce.

It’s all about the dry aging room ... and Chef Megan Logan at

Finish your meal with the Guinness bread pudding with cognac ice cream.

At sunset, guests gather to enjoy the Happy Hour festivities every Monday through Friday from 3 p.m to 9 p.m.

Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Sit on the comfortable outdoor lounge terrace for $5 mixology cocktails paired with braised beef short rib skewers and mini steakhouse burgers.

The terrace offers lovely views of downtown L.A. It’s the perfect spot to relax after work or before an evening on the town.

Open Monday through Friday for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and dinner Monday through Saturday from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. The restaurant is closed on Sundays. Valet service is available in the Wells Fargo Center garage, from the entrance on Hope Street. Parking is free for three hours with a validation from Nick & Stef’s during dinner. After three hours there is a flat rate of $9.

For pre-theater dinner, a complimentary shuttle service to the Music Center on performance nights is available.

Park in the Wells Fargo Center garage all evening for flat rate of $5.70, with validation from the shuttle driver. If you choose to walk to the performance, your ticket stub will also suffice as validation.

330 South Hope St. (213)680-0330. by jILL weInLeIn

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Dining & Entertainment Magazine

12 June 2013

An Artful blend of Latin and Asian Flavors at

Zengo by jill weinlein

Z

engo, the Richard Sandoval restaurant in Santa Monica, offers a new après rooftop lounge to enjoy beach sunsets and Promenade viewing. Sit in one of the modern sofas or a rustic communal table as chef and

The beverage menu features innovative, hand-muddled cocktails as well as Latin wines, Japanese sakes and a collection of fine tequilas.

On Saturdays, the popular DJ Tim Koranda and guest DJs are

owner Sandoval celebrates summer with a new affordable lunch and dinner menu. Nothing on the menu is over $19.

Locals come up to enjoy Zengo’s Happy Hour for the $4 mojitos every Sunday through Friday from 3 to 7 p.m. Splurge for one more dollar and sit back with a hibiscus mojito or prickly pear caipirinha. These drinks go nicely with the Yuca fries with miso mustard and lemon sake aioli or the shrimp tempura with shrimp, crab and avocado.

spinning techno to deep house music from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Enjoy alfresco dining on the terrace every Sunday for the $35 bottomless brunch with unlimited small plates. Steak Benedict with poached eggs goes nicely with a lychee Bellini.

The restaurant opens for lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dinner begins at 4 p.m. to closing. Park in the Santa Monica Place parking structure.

The restaurant validates. 395 Santa Monica Place (310)899-1000.

Friendly, creative, local. ROFL Cafe.

It’s all about positive energy at ROFL Café on Melrose. ROFL is a Govind Armstrong creation specializing in local California cuisine.

Armstrong started his culinary career working for Wolfgang Puck at the iconic Spago’s in West Hollywood. He is the Executive Chef at Post & Beam in Baldwin Hills, and just opened Willie Jean’s in Venice.

Armstrong is known for his burgers, but ROFL Café serves other plates such as salads, sandwiches and pizza. Weekend brunch is very popular with their signature ROFL waffle with chocolate ganache and fresh raspberries and Intelligentsia coffee. 7661 Melrose Ave. (323)951-1536.

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Dining & Entertainment Magazine

14 June 2013

photo courtesy of The Roof at The Hotel Wilshire

The Roof

by Jill Weinlein

C

hef Eric Greenspan is known for his culinary creativity at The Foundry on Melrose. When I heard about his newer restaurant, The Roof at The Hotel Wilshire, I was eager to try it.

Exiting the elevator on the top floor of the Kimpton boutique Hotel Wilshire, I was immediately wowed by the views of the Wilshire corridor at dusk. The sky looked like chains of rubies and pearls.

The Roof is elegant while maintaining trendy vibes in its prime Los Angeles location. The cozy seating is perfect for a first date, or meeting up with friends to enjoy a night on the town. With a handcrafted cocktail in hand and the spectacular panoramic views of the city, you can’t go wrong here.

Our waiter was charming and helpful when making the very important decision of which cocktail to order. I chose the El Diablo, made with tequila, lime juice, gin-

ger syrup, house-made ginger beer and a cassis float. It arrived in a chilled copper mug and tasted similar to a really good margarita.

My husband ordered a cool Southside gin cocktail with cucumber, mint and lime.

Glancing at the three-page menu on a clipboard, the candles offer just enough light to read about Chef Greenspan’s interesting dishes. The nori nachos and lobster salad caught our eye.

These nachos have an Asian twist and are served with tuna tartare topped with a spicy salmon roe and eel sauce. It’s served with his homemade rice and seaweed crackers flash fried with an airy crunch.

The decadent lobster salad was presented stacked with generous pieces of lobster, tomatillo, chives and avocado next to four corn fritters. The fritters evoked Southern home cooking with every bite.

All of the entrées come with a choice of a side. We ordered the fresh grilled halibut on a bed of fried Brussels sprouts, sautéed with sweet and sour onions and savory bacon. We also selected the

Terrace Dining

Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

chilled bean salad and a side of creamed corn elote (Spanish for corn on the cob). The dish tasted just like the wonderful corn on the cob at a County Fair or Farmers Market. It’s cut off the husk and mixed with chili watermelon juice and queso fresco.

The wine list is interesting with whites from Portugal, France, Italy and the California Central Coast.

We ordered a glass of Copain Tours Ensemble Chardonnay from the Anderson Valley and a Black and White Cabernet from Topanga Vineyards in Napa to accompany our dishes.

All the beverages are served in fine plastic stemware to prevent breakage, due to the table’s proximity to the deck and swimming pool in the center of the restaurant.

Eric Greenspan’s creativity in the kitchen turns ordinary cuisine into a masterpiece.

Next time you have guests who need a “home away from home,” check out The Hotel Wilshire.

Then join your friends for and dinner on The Roof. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. $$ 6317 Wilshire Blvd. (323)852-6002.

Emily Villalpando and Karen Villalpando contributed to these stories .

K atana A gem in the iDG ring of restaurants

T

by Jill Weinlein

he terrace overlooking Sunset Boulevard is a perfect spot for people-watching and enjoying bustling West Hollywood.

A favorite spot for film, music and television celebrities, Katana offers innovative Japanese cuisine, and a glorious selection of sake, Japanese beer, wine and creative cocktails.

The robatayaki style of cooking uses an open robata grill, which is an ancient style of Japanese cooking with skewers.

The elegant 1920s building also houses executive offices for Miramax Films. On the sexy terrace, guests sit at tables with comfortable chairs, next to heaters and flaming Tiki torches during the daily happy hour from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dinner service begins at 6 p.m.

Hama Hama oysters are served with creative cubes of tomato gelee and lobster medallions are topped with black truffles in a cherry port soy vinaigrette.

Be sure to order a few of the ro-

batayaki, like the Wagyu Japanese premium beef. From the robata grill, try the Kobe pepper with a spicy back pepper sauce.

The Japanese Karashi mustard goes nicely with the Kurobuta pork sausage. The tender pork ribs practically fall off the bone and are accompanied by a soy garlic bar-

becue sauce.

The food and service on the terrace attract Hollywood’s elite enjoying an array of robata style dishes, a grand sushi bar, and special hot and cold dishes from the award-winning kitchen.

Parking is valet in the building’s garage. 8439 W. Sunset Blvd. (323)650-8585.

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Dining & Entertainment Magazine

16 June 2013

Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Terrace Dining Where Dowtown L.A. Comes Alive

by JiLL WeinLein

W

hen attending a show or an event at the Staples Center or one of the theaters around L.A. Live, dining options can be limited if you’re not willing to wait.

However, I found a great new hidden gem across the street from L.A Live. FigOly at Luxe City Center Hotel, a boutique hotel at the corner of Figueroa and Olympic, is the perfect spot for a charming meal with good pizza and pasta.

The terrace is ideal for a few quick cocktails, tapas and pizza before heading to a show. My favorite cocktail was The Other Side, which is bourbon with a little fresh lemon juice, sage macerated raspberries and ginger.

FigOly is a swanky and sexy, especially for the after-work crowd to enjoy the FigOly 5 for 5 Happy Hour. It’s available everyday in the bar and on the terrace from 5 to 7 p.m. Five dishes for $5 is a great deal. Order the sa-

photo courtesy of FigOly

The expansive terrace at FigOly beckons the after-five crowd, the pre-and post Laker game pack and even an intimate date for two.

vory short rib sliders. Pair it with a glass of Prosecco or wine for an additional $5.

Cozy seats surround the fire pit or for a more intimate setting, cabanas are toward the back of the terrace. Large heat lamps keep guests warm, as do the original cocktails.

If you are staying for a more leisurely dinner, I recommend the spicy Ahi tuna topped with an avocado mousse served with sesame crackers.

The roasted summer squash salad is a favorite of mine topped with toasted pepitas and pomegranate seeds to give it that extra crunch.

Signature dinner entrees include the photo by Jill Weinlein FigOly gourmet

Fire pit tables add both warmth and ambience.

burger made with aged sirloin and tres leches cheese served on a challah bun with spiced aioli and a thin layer of prosciutto.

The seared salmon is served with a creamy Romesco yogurt sauce, mixed cauliflower, sweated onions and an almond gremolata.

Save room for the decedent chocolate ganache on a graham cracker crust accompanied with grape jelly and housemade marshmallows. Castrouma olives dipped in Muscadet and simple syrup decorate the top.

The gooey pecan tart made with pecan shortbread arrives with a scoop of coconut sorbet, sprinkled with snowy pecan powder and passion fruit caramel.

Valet park at the Luxe City Center. FigOly will validate. Instead of paying anywhere from $10 to $30 at other lots around downtown Los Angeles, we paid $9.

Go up for the views and stay for the exquisite food. Open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. 1020 S. Figueroa St. (213)743-7600.

Emily Villalpando and Karen Villalpando contributed to this story.

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Dining & Entertainment Magazine

18 June 2013

Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

BEVERLY BOULEVARD ICON

EL COYOTE The bursting burritos and icy cold margaritas at El Coyote Mexican Café are just two of the very good reasons to visit the Beverly Boulevard mainstay. It’s no mystery why this place is so popular: they’ve been around since 1931 and still have lines nearly every night waiting for a seat. The waiters and waitresses are outfitted in traditional Mexican attire, while the restaurant has colorfully-painted walls adorned with sombreros and a mix of eclectic art. Weekly specials, such as Margarita Monday and Tequila Tuesday, make this spot a favorite among locals. The food is standard Mexican fare and the prices absolutely can’t be beat. From classic combinations like taco and enchilada with rice and beans to sizzling shrimp fajitas, there’s something to please everyone at El Coyote.

Want to throw a fiesta in your own backyard? El Coyote can help with custom-tailored catering including “street” tacos, tamales, chips and guacamole and more. They’ll even bring their famous margaritas.

Located at 7312 Beverly Blvd. Call (323) 939-2255 or visit www.elcoyotecafe.com for more information.

“The healthiest, most delicious steak ever.”

Jay Weston, Huffington Post

“An elite variety of beef – centric part of Los Angeles”

Western

Barbara Hansen, Korean Restaurant Guide

3807 Wilshire Blvd. • 213.384.5464 Only Korean BBQ Restaurant in L.A. to serve Certified Piedmontese Beef

parking off Manhattan

www.starkingbbq.com

Wilshire

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20 June 2013

Dining & Entertainment Magazine

Welcome to the jungle!

Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

By AAron Blevins

Beastly Ball, roaring nights & Brew at the Zoo get the zoo jumpin’ for summer

T

he Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA) invites residents to step into the rainforest during the 43rd annual Beastly Ball, where patrons will get a sneak-peek at the zoo’s new Americas project.

The event, held on June 15, will honor “NCIS” actress Pauley Perrette and Wells Fargo while offering a glimpse of the new exhibit, “Rainforest of the Americas”, which will present mammals, reptiles, birds and insects in a lush, tropical setting.

GLAZA president Connie Morgan said the organization, which is a “major” nonprofit partner of the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, is “absolutely thrilled” to host the fundraiser, “which is always a fantastic event.”

“I’m excited about it because we’re not only going to have fabulous food and animal encounters for our guests, but we’ll also be hearing a

lot of music from Brazil and from southern and Central America,” she said.

Further, the event will offer silent and live auctions with comedian Jimmy Pardo, animal feedings and a pre-party soiree with animals, cocktails and Perrette, who will receive the Tom Mankiewicz Leadership Award.

The award honors those who have shown leadership in wildlife or environmental conservation or for the recipient’s effort to promote civic pride and harmony in a multi-cultural community.

Tickets are $1,000 per person, and the pre-party is an additional $500. For information, call (323)644-4753 or visit www.lazoo.org.

While the Beastly Ball is the

GLAZA’s biggest fundraiser, the fun at the zoo will not stop there. Zoo officials are hoping patrons will “roar” with laughter during the organization’s “Roaring Nights” nighttime series beginning July 11.

Participants will be able to tour the zoo after-hours, listen to live music from local bands such as So Many Wizards and CHIEF, enjoy a dance party with DJ Morningstar, laugh with stand-up comics and eat from a variety of food trucks.

“We’re very excited, because it is for anyone over eighteen,” Morgan said. “We are really hoping that the young people will be coming out for this, because we know most have very fond memories of visiting the zoo as children, and we’d like to have them out and see all the improvements at the zoo over the last fifteen years.”

The events will be held on July 11, 18 and 25, from 7 to 10 p.m.

Admission is $15 for zoo members and $18 for non-members. For information, visit www.lazoo.org.

On Aug. 9, officials will host “Brew at the L.A. Zoo”, an evening of fun with California craft beer, food, live music and an opportuMotoyama the orangutan

nity to walk the zoo grounds at twilight. Guests will receive beertasting tickets, a tasting mug and more. Tickets are $50 at the door.

With a large line-up of events, GLAZA officials are excited about the zoo’s future. GLAZA had been in talks to take over the operations of the zoo, and though those talks stalled, GLAZA may be taking over some other aspects of the operations, such as its marketing programs, Morgan said.

“We’re here to add to the life of the zoo,” she said, adding that GLAZA operates six zoo departments — fundraising, membership, volunteers, publications, concessions and special events.

Although officials are pleased with the state of the zoo and are excited about the rainforest exhibit, patrons can continue to expect new developments at the facility, Morgan said.

“It’s just like a house,” she said.

“As soon as you finish, you go back and start thinking about what else needs to be done.”

The zoo is located at 5333 Zoo Drive in Griffith Park. photos courtesy of Los Angeles Zoo

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Downtown LA Nightlife and Dining

Downtown Los Angeles has blossomed into a culinary mecca offering a full menu of 5-star restaurants, street food and the hottest joints to hang out. Here are a few of our favorites:

Kendall’s Brasserie and Bar Next time you are seeing a production at the Los Angeles Music Center downtown, reserve a table at the Parisian-style Kendall’s Brasserie and Bar for pre-theatre dining or for an after-the-show cocktail.

Award-winning mixologist Paul Sanguinetti has revamped Patina Restaurant Group’s authentic French café with an innovative cocktail menu. Start with an absinthe aperitif to stimulate your appetite or the Don Javier Goes To France cocktail made with Tequila Ocho Plata. It pairs nicely with a cheese plate and crusty French baguette.

Executive Chef Jean Pierre Bosc prepares a divine lemon-dill salmon tart with onion soubise and salmon roe. The roasted duck breast arrives with leg confit, wild mushroom daube and delicious South of France style pommes salardaise.

A patio for those who prefer alfresco dining is open for lunch on weekdays from 11:30 a.m. and on weekends when there is a matinee performance. Dinner starts at 5 p.m.

Valet parking is available (dinner only) on Grand Avenue in front of Patina at the Walt Disney Concert Hall for $8 with Kendall’s validation.135 N. Grand Ave. (213)972-7322.

Bottega Louie This bustling downtown European café doesn’t take reservations, so just put your name on the waiting list and watch the chefs perform in the kitchen or grab a drink at the well-stocked bar.

When your table is ready, you will be found by a host and be addressed by your last name throughout the meal.

Craving a smoked salmon Benedict or ham and cheese croissant? This bright space with a high ceiling is open for breakfast at 8 a.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. on weekends, when they also serve brunch.

The lunch and dinner menu offers a variety of salads, Napolitano-style pizzas, pastas, soups and sandwiches. Try one of the 24 different small plates ranging from $9 to $13. Entrees are from $22 to $35 for the Rib Eye and New York Strip steak. The 14 oz. Rib Eye is a generous portion of beautifully marbled grilled beef. It comes with Kennebec French fries and a luscious béarnaise sauce.

Save room for a chocolate soufflé or the beignets with raspberry compote. You’ll love the butterscotch budino. Before leaving, check out the glass shelves filled with pastel Le Grand macarons. A variety of delicate flavors include chocolate orange, rose, violet cassis, salted caramel and pistachio.

The trays of buttery croissants, cranberry lemon scones, croissants and pain au chocolate will also mesmerize you. Treat yourself to a few for a late night snack or morning treat.

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There is also a gourmet market onsite offering salads, sandwiches and small plates to take back to the office or home. 700 S. Grand Ave. (213)802-1470.

Soleto Trattoria & Pizza Bar Within walking distance to the Staples Center, Soleto Trattoria (an Innovative Dining Group creation) fills up before every Lakers or Kings game.

With years of experience managing BOA Steakhouse on Sunset, Mike Baray, the general manager, opened Soleto last year.

It’s a casual and fun spot with recycled wood flooring and soaring brick walls, leading up to a black industrial ceiling. Each wall is decorated differently, with eclectic light fixtures and different types of globes that soften the glow.

The menu is simple with freshly made Italian food and pizza. My favorite appetizer is the homemade meatballs with fresh marinara sauce blanketed with mozzarella cheese.

Of the salads, we enjoyed the grilled vegetable and Chopt Italian. Both are dressed with Soleto’s secret vinaigrette.

The restaurant offers flavorful grilled oyster mushrooms dressed with a truffle vinaigrette, sprinkled with parsley and shaved parmesan.

It pairs nicely with a glass of 2008 Gabbiano Chianti Classico with lush berry notes, mild tannins and hints of savory spice. The pan-seared scallops resting on a creamy mushroom risotto with a parmesan foammade with garlic, thyme and butter is delectable, especially with a glass of buttery Jordan Chardonnay.

The pan fried Branzino Milanese is served with arugula, half a lemon and thick shavings of grana padano. Grano padano is a subtler version of Parmigiano, with a nuttier and less salty taste.

The delicate flavor works well on salads, risotto and fish, because it doesn’t overpower a dish.

Pizzas are fire roasted in the brick pizza oven at Soleto Trattoria. We tried the spicy smoked pizza covered with thinly julienne Fresno and Anaheim peppers and caramelized onions. For those that prefer a spicier pie, on each table is a tall bottle of peppers soaking in oil to sprinkle to your taste preference.

Be sure to valet park behind the restaurant; it’s only $5. Just take the elevator up to the ground level. The restaurant is next to the entrance of the office tower. Open for lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and dinner until 10 p.m.

The restaurant is closed on Sundays. Daily Happy Hour specials are from 3 to 7 p.m. with food and drink specials starting at $3. 801 Figueroa St. (213)622-3255.

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By Edwin FolvEn

Summer Concert Schedule June 14-16 Barry Manilow June 20 Steve Miller Band and The doobie Brothers July 7 ll Cool J, ice Cube, Public Enemy and de la Soul June 8 Pat Benatar with neil Giraldo and Cheap Trick June 6 Jethro Tull’s ian Anderson July 13 Cyndi lauper July 14 The Stylistics, Peaches and Herb

M

usic lovers will find something from nearly every genre this summer at the Greek Theatre, with concerts performed in a unique outdoor setting nestled in the hills of Griffith Park.

The Greek Theatre has been a top venue for concerts since 1931.

The 5,900-seat theatre has played host to hundreds of well-known musical groups over the years, and the 2013 “Summer Concert Season” is no exception.

Audience members will also enjoy a large selection of food and beverages at the Greek Theatre, which has a new grilling station and a Pink’s Hot Dogs stand. An extensive menu and full wait staff service is available in the VIP box suites. Food baskets and bottled wine can be purchased for a picnic. The Greek Theatre was named “Best Small Outdoor Venue of the Year” for the 13th consecutive year at the 24th annual Pollstar Awards in February.

The theatre is owned by the city of Los Angeles, but has been managed and operated by Nederlander since 1976. Approximately 1,300 seats were added in 1983, and a multi-million dollar renovation was completed in 2004 that added box suites and restored the venue’s original 1930’s design.

The Greek Theatre is located at 2700 N. Vermont Ave. For information, call (323)665-5857, or visit www.greektheatrela.com.

July 19

Go Country 105’s 6th Annual “Summer Under the Stars” Aug. 17 “Funkfest” with George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic Sept. 21 dianna Krall July 23-24 Postal Service Aug. 3 Gypsy Kings Aug. 10 The national Aug. 24 Peter Frampton and B.B. King Sept. 15 Carly Rae Jepsen oct. 20 The Beach Boys

photo courtesy of the Greek Theatre

The Greek Theatre is one of Los Angeles’ most popular locations for artists around the world.

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photo by Robert M

“into darkness.” Superman’s reboot includes a bleaker rendition by the “Watchmen” and “300” director, Zack Snyder. Joining the man of tomorrow, we have quite the fascinating characters, from herding zombies, ghost police, dystopian post-humans, “Kick-Ass” superheroes (I’m not cursing, the sequel premieres Aug. 16) and a former X-Man whose regenerative abilities aren’t what they used to be.

But if grit ain’t your bag of reel, there’s plenty of popcorn cheese. “Pacific Rim” is basically a Japanese anime in live action.

This is what “Godzilla” should be. Percy Jackson finally returns after years of silence (that’s rarely good for a film franchise), ready to take on more mythical creatures in the “Sea of Monsters”, and another teen book series, “The Mortal Instruments”, vies for the “Twilight”-void in our moviegoing lives. We’ll just have to see if the superpowered offspring of angels are as fascinating as Washington-based vamps with no fangs.

And then there’s Gru’s return in “Despicable Me 2” –– oh how I love those Twinkie-shaped minions (and Twinkies for that matter...

RIP). But before you buy your tickets, order that large popcorn and pick out that seat with optimal acoustics (oh Sheldon Cooper), heed these words.

Midnight Madness Ever been to a midnight screening? It’s quite the experience. Fans donning Jack Sparrow costumes, throwing beach balls around two hours before 12:01 a.m. (it’s always “01”), cheering during anticipated trailers and gasping in unison amidst narrative reveals.

If you prefer passive viewing experiences, I’m sure there’s a matinee available, but if cinematic synergy beckons, take the leap... or simply a nap beforehand so you don’t fall asleep in the third act.

And if waiting in lines for long hours doesn’t sound appealing, Arclight bookings make life easier, though you might just miss out on the cultural experience. Your choice.

Henry Cavill is Superman.

Man of Steel (June 14): British hunk Henry Cavill sure is dashing, adding rugged to Christopher Reeves’ all-American charm. Who knew Superman could grow a beard? More importantly, how does a man with impenetrable skin shave? And then there’s Michael Shannon (“Boardwalk Empire” and “Taken Shelter”) as evil villain, General Zod. Finally a “Superman” film without Lex Luther.

| Movie Smuggling Tip |

Remember to use your Gucci knock off to smuggle in a meatball sub, lest the cheap tomato sauce linger on.

Movie Munchies Ever since AMC Theatres made the unfortunate decision to disallow outside food in their doors, culinary options dwindled in the modern-day movie palace. Sure, Arclight has carmel popcorn, but is it worth the high cost of tickets?

Then there’s specialty theatres like iPic in Pasadena that offer both Lay-Z-Boy-esque seating and dinner during the film, but that’s hardly sustainable for the repeat viewer.

But hey, at least our mayor didn’t decide to add a special tax to

oversized sodas at the movies, thus increasing the already 500 percent increase on movie food costs. Just remember, use your Gucci knock off to smuggle in a meatball sub, lest the cheap tomato sauce linger on.

Summer Sessions If you love movies but don’t know how to channel that passion outside the theatre, check out these two summer events.

Hero Complex: Los Angeles Times’ “Hero Complex”, a once blog now subsection of the publica-

tion, hosts free screenings of upcoming movies, so check their website throughout the summer to reserve tickets. They go quick, so practice your mouse-clicking abilities.

LAFilmFest: Sure, Cannes might be in France and Sundance in Park City, Utah, but Angelinos have their own experience, LAFilmFest presented by Film Independent, June 13 through 23. Whether you crave indie films, shorts, music videos or classics, this one’s just as eclectic as the host city itself.

A. Fran Kranz stars as Claudio in “Much Ado About Nothing”.

B. The minions pump out more antics in “Despicable Me 2”.

C. Chloë Grace Moretz prepares to kick more...villains as the sadistic vigilante, Hit-Girl, in “Kick-Ass 2”.

“Man of Steel” / Warner Bros. Pictures; “Much Ado About Nothing” / Roadside Attractions / “Despicable Me 2” / Universal Pictures; “Kick-Ass 2” / Universal Pictures

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Dining & Entertainment Guide

Summer movie Schedule

spotlight Much Ado About Nothing (June 7) Joss Whedon follows his worldwide hit, “The Avengers”, with...Shakespeare. This modern-day adaptation of Billy’s comedy, “Much Ado About Nothing”, already has quite the early buzz and plenty of familiar faces, if you’ve seen anything in the Whedonverse (“Buffy the Vampire Slayer”, “Firefly” and “Dollhouse”). We’ll just have to see if the storyteller known for witty banter can lead a cast using only Old English.

This is the End (June 12) Seth Rogen, James Franco, Danny McBride, Emma Watson, Jason Segel, Jonah Hill, Michael Cera, Jay Brachial and Craig Robinson as themselves in this end-or-theworld flick appropriately named “This is the End”. Too much of a good thing? Perhaps, but at least the R-rating is a tiny sign of hope for countless crass jokes to come.

World War Z (June 21) Brad Pitt in a zombie movie...I’m in.

The Heat (June 28) “Bridesmaids” proved women can be just as vulgar as men, and now director Paul Feig takes on the buddy cop genre joining uptight Special Agent Sarah (played by a “Miss Congeniality”-esque Sandra Bullock) and loose cannon Det. Shannon (Melissa McCarthy).

Despicable Me 2 (July 3) Remember a cute little girl declaring, “It’s so fluffy,” as she squeezed her pink unicorn? It’s time for “Despicable Me 2” to provide us with a few more ring tone-worthy one-liners and adorable sounds by those minions.

29 June 2013

R.I.P.D. (July 19) Welcome to this supernatural cop thriller, co-starring Ryan Reynolds and Jeff Bridges as law enforcers of the R.I.P.D., the Rest in Peace Division. Even after death, they protect the world, but this time from the dead.

Or at least Bridges’ returns to his caricatured accent employed in “True Grit”.

RED 2 (July 19) Just admit it, “RED” was incredibly fun, and “RED 2”, reuniting Helen Mirren, John Malkovich and action king Bruce Willis, is bound to be just as enjoyable. Let’s welcome Catherine Zeta Jones and Anthony Hopkins to the party, too.

The Wolverine (July 26) Hugh Jackman is Wolverine. And he reprises the career-defining role for the sixth time (I’m counting his cameo in “First Class”). I know what you’re thinking: Mr. Jackman, it’s time to move on, but have faith in director James Mangold (“Walk the Line”). Some characters just don’t die, and that’s rather appropriate for the Wolverine.

Elysium (Aug. 9) It might look like an adaptation of the popular video game, “Halo”, but “Elysium” is a completely original story (minus that halo ring in the preview). The “District 9” director, Neill Blomkamp, gears up for his sophomore release, depicting a slum-like dystopia and a paradise – Elysium – orbiting above. But one of earth’s have-nots, Max (Matt Damon), straps on a robotic exoskeleton to gain access to the planet’s best view.

Kick-Ass 2 (Aug. 16) What better way to the end the summer than with a ragtag crew of vigilantes craving something more than an everyday life. And in place of Nicholas Cage’s Big Daddy in the first film, meet Jim Carrey as Colonel Stars and Stripes. Just wait, just you wait.

June 7

As Cool As I Am Évocateur: The Morton Downey Jr. Movie Hey Bartender The Internship Much Ado About Nothing Passion The Purge Rapture-Palooza Syrup Tiger Eyes Violet & Daisy Wish you were here

June 12

More Than Money This is the End

June 14

Apostles of Comedy Berberian Sound Studio The Bling Ring The Guillotines Hatchet 3 Man of Steel Storm Surfers Twenty Feet From Stardom Vehicle 19 The Wall

June 21

A Hijacking The Attack Between Us Liars All Maniac Monsters University Rushlights Unfinished Song World War Z

June 28

A Band Called Death Byzantium Copperhead The Heat I’m So Excited Laurence Anyways Redemption Some Girl(s) White House Down

July 3

Big Star: Nothing Can Hurt Me Despicable Me 2 Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain The Lone Ranger

July 5

Hammer of the Gods Just Like a Woman Stuck in Love The Way, Way Back

July 10

Israel: A Home Movie

July 12

Crystal Fairy Fruitvale Station Grown Ups 2 Hot Flashes The Hunt Pacific Rim VHS2

July 17

Computer Chess Turbo

July 19

The Conjuring Evidence Girl Most Likely Only God Forgives R.I.P.D. RED 2 Ways to Live Forever

July 26

Blue Jasmine Frankenstein’s Army Stranded (limited) The To Do List The Wolverine

July 31

Smash and Grab: The Story of the Pink Panthers The Smurfs 2

August 2

2 Guns Drift Europa Report The Spectacular Now Top Cat

August 7

Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters

Aug. 9

Blood Planes Elysium I Give It a Year In a World...

Lovelace Prince Avalanche We’re the Millers

Aug. 13

Last Passenger

Aug. 14

The Patience Stone

Aug. 16

Ain’t Them Bodies Saints Austenland The Butler Cutie and the Boxer Kick-Ass 2 Paranoia

Aug. 21

The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones

Aug. 23

The Colony The Grandmaster Thérèse Desqueyroux The World’s End You’re Next

Aug. 28

Closed Circuit

Aug. 30

Drinking Buddies Getaway

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Korean BBQ by jill weinlein

A Korean friend took me to one of her favorite Korean restaurants a few years ago, and I have been a fan ever since. She also taught me about Korean dining etiquette.

Politeness is important when sharing food and drinks. For example, one must wait for the eldest person in the party to sit down before others can take a seat. And then, all should wait until the oldest person begins to dine, before you pick up your chopsticks to start your meal.

It’s nice to tell the host “Jalmukesumneda,” which means I will eat well. Here are a few of my favorite Korean BBQ restaurants.

bibigo

With three locations in the United States located in Beverly Hills, Century City and Westwood, this fast-casual Korean restaurant offers many of my favorite specialties. The Korean mega YouTube sensation, Psy, loves Bibigo too.

The sunglass-clad Korean pop singer, whose video for “Gangnam Style” became the craze of 2012, was recently spotted at Bibigo while in L.A. searching for a personal chef. He has named his top

three finalists on www.psygobibigo.com and voting will continue until June 10. When the lucky chef is selected, he or she will receive $40,000, 5-star hotel accommodations, luxury transportation and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel with Psy on his world tour for one month.

In addition to the chef challenge promotion, Psy has declared some of his Bibigo menu items as his “favorites.”

“Psy has supported Bibigo since the opening of our restaurants in Seoul, and we wanted to share Psy’s favorite Korean dishes with diners in Los Angeles with a new summer menu,” said John Soo Han, Bibigo corporate marketing and planning director.

I had the opportunity to try some of the dishes on Psy’s menu.

My favorite dish is the signature Hot Stone Bibimbap featuring healthy black rice, spicy pork, fried egg topped with half sesame and half Kohot sauce.

The essential Korean secret for seasoning and balanced nutrition is hidden in Jang (fermented pastes and sauces), Soo Han said.

The healthful properties of Jang include the strengthening of the immune system and anti-aging.

The fermentation process preserves the vegetable without destroying nutritional qualities.

Bibigo incorporates fermented Jang and Kimchi into many of the dishes to enhance their flavors.

Kimchi is Korea’s symbolic and fabled side dish.

The other dishes I adore are the chewy sweet and spicy rice cakes with yams, Kimchi stew and spicy pork ribs.

Finish with a Korean sweet pancake with raspberries, blueberries, granola and vanilla ice cream.

This special menu is available now until July 31. Bibigo is offering each guest who orders from See Korean Dining page 32

Dine among the stars on one of the most romantic patios in Los Angeles.

323-962-1900 6263 Leland Way, Hollywood, CA 90028 (one block south of sunset, just east of Vine)

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32 June 2013

Korean Dining

Psy’s menu a chance to win prizes, including a trip to Korea, and other “scratch-card” gifts like a Bibigo VIP voucher, an eco-friendly Bibigo shopping bag, Psy memorabilia, or a soft drink. The restaurants are open for lunch and dinner at all locations.

1091 Broxton Ave. (310)824-0011, 225 S. Beverly Drive (310)275-0011 and 10250 Santa Monica Blvd. (310)557-0011.

From page 30

Star King

photo by Jill Weinlein

Service at Star King comes with a smile.

Located in Koreatown, the restaurant is the only Korean BBQ restaurant to serve Nebraska Piedmontese beef. This beef is originally from Italy and provides a higher lean-to-fat ratio. The meat is a less marbled low-fat cut of beef, lower in calories, higher in protein and contains a higher percentage of the good Omega 3 fatty acid.

Star King is a fun dining destination as you sit with family or group of friends to cook a platter of Piedmontese ribeye steak, brisket and boneless short ribs on

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a personal grill. Flavor-enhancing dipping sauces accompany the beef.

Be sure to try the acorn jelly made in-house and lightly tossed with toasted seaweed. The seafood pizza is filled with shrimp and calamari. Don’t be afraid of the freshly sliced jalapenos in a sesame oil dressing or chewy dried squid in a slightly spicy red sauce – they are delicious.

One of my favorite dishes is Japchae (stirfried glass noodles), a popular Korean party food enjoyed at birthdays and at dinner parties.

The luscious glass noodles are topped with sautéed vegetables in a slightly sweet sauce. Of course there is plenty of kimchi to spice your dishes at Star King.

Accompany all of these delicacies with roasted barley ice tea, sake or a delightful raspberry wine.

Park for free in the garage structure behind the restaurant. Star King will validate. The Metro Purple Line is located across the street at Wilshire and Western. Star King is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner until midnight. 3807 Wilshire Blvd. Ste 120 (213)384-5464.

Sweet & Savory Crepes & Waffles European Specialties Gourmet Sandwiches & Paninis, Salads & Soups Coffee, Espresso & Cappuccino

Open Everyday!

Farmers Market: 6333 West Third St. at Fairfax (323)934-3113 Hollywood & Highland: 6801 Hollywood Blvd. #403 (323)960-0933 Burbank: 108 E. Palm Ave. (818)846-0566

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33 June 2013

Great Greek Dining!

Enjoy a romantic greek dinner on our patio among the olive trees & twinkling lights!

Full Bar Breakfast, lunch, dinner

our show-stoppping Saganaki “Ouzo Flamed”

Our Delicious Lamb Burger & fries

In the Farmers MArket • 3rd & fairfax

323.939.9728 www.Ulyssesvoyage.com

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Kings of the craft

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By AAron Blevins

W

hile Los Angeles tends to be progressive in many ways, the city was lagging behind on an issue that is quite important to select bar patrons — craft beer.

While other metropolitan areas have embraced the microbrewery products for several years, California and its largest city have recently begun enjoying the diversity that craft beers bring to the table.

Tom McCormick, executive director of the California Craft Brewers Association, said the interest in craft beers continues to increase across the nation, and Los Angeles has joined the party.

“There just seems to be a lot of excitement about craft beer in the Los Angeles area in the last year or

so,” he said.

McCormick said the primary appeal of the brew is the fact they are made locally or regionally. They also come from small companies; even the larger brewers are small in comparison to the AnheuserBusches of the world, he said. That has led to an array of craft beer options.

“For so many years, all the beer that was available, either imports or beers brewed by the big breweries, was really just one style,” McCormick said. “Obviously, there’s so much more to beer than just that one style.”

He said brewers, some of whom can be quite creative and passionate about their work, have “really had fun with the idea.”

photo courtesy of 213 Nightlife

Bartenders serve drinks during the L.A. Craft Beer Crawl in August in downtown Los Angeles.

“Each one has a very different flavor profile to it,” McCormick said.

In economic terms, craft beer is beneficial to the region. McCormick said he is “kind of embarrassed but proud to say the nature of the business is inefficient,” as

microbreweries hire a lot of workers.

“Craft beer in the country overall makes up six percent of all the beer that is sold in the U.S.,” he said, adding that microbreweries employ more than half of the people in the brewing industry. They

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offer more than 20,000 jobs in California, McCormick said. “It’s great for the economy in a lot of ways.”

He said the interest has forced “megabreweries” to try their hand at craft beers. McCormick referenced Blue Moon and Shock Top, both owned by large companies.

However, the attention to craft beer — whether through microbreweries or global companies — is welcome.

“It’s really a fun product,” McCormick said. “It’s a fascinating group of individuals and people.

It’s really nice to have a growing industry that has a lot of faces and people behind it. We’re all excited for Los Angeles because there’s some great brewing in that area now.”

Indeed, in the greater Los Angeles area, several businesses are catering to the craft beer crowd.

Dining & Entertainment Magazine

Among them are: Short Order, 6333 W. 3rd St. at The Original Farmers Market. The business recently kicked off a new weekly event, Fat Tuesdays at Short Order. Every week, chefs Christian Page and Dante Gonzales will make some of their signature dishes. Featured beers are Mischief Belgian Strong Pale Ale, Trade Winds Summer Belgian Golden Ale with an Asian Twist, Bois Anniversary Beer and Top Secret Sour.

Golden Road Brewing, 5410 W. San Fernando Road. The brewery hosts public tours on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30, 2:30 and 4 p.m. The business offers a large patio space, shuffle board, Aunt Sally, ping pong and more.

To receive a tour, send an e-mail to tours@goldenroad.la.

Farmers Market Bars, 6333 W. 3rd St. EB’s offers Lagunitas IPA, Goose Island Honkers Ale, Ommegang BPA, Golden Road Brown Ale, Anchor Lager and others, while 326 has Goose Island Summer Kolsch, Stone IPA,

35 June 2013

Eagle Rock Populist, Firestone Solace, Stone Arrogant Bastard and Green Flash Hop Head Red, among others. On June 21, the bars will host representatives of Firestone, who will host a glass giveaway.

Tony’s Darts Away, 1710 Magnolia Blvd., Burbank. Tony’s offers 40 different California beers, vegan and non-vegan food and daily specials. The bottle-free

bar/restaurant also offers brunch on weekends.

Mohawk Bend, 2141 W. Sunset Blvd. The Echo Park restaurant and bar uses only California ingredients in its food offerings, and has 72 taps of craft beer. Retrofitted in a 100-year-old theatre, Mohawk Bend also offers vegan and nonvegan items.

For information, visit www.californiacraftbeer.com.

photo courtesy of 213 Nightlife

Los Angeles’ interest in craft beers appears to be on the rise, according to the California Craft Brewers Association.

Try one of our Delicious, New Burgers!

!

!

Open 24 Hours

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Pampas Brazilian BBQ By jill weinlein

V

enturing into Culver City, I stopped at Pampas Grill for a Brazilian BBQ lunch. I’m familiar with the other Pampas location that is always busy at the Original Farmers Market. The food is consistently fresh and delicious and good value, too. Both locations are self-service buffet style where you can make your own combination platter. Your plate is weighed and charged by the pound. It’s easy to walk away feeling very satisfied for under $15.

Pampas Grill is a small business, owned by two families. The Culver City location is very well designed and sits uniquely in the middle of a shopping center surrounded by many other restaurants.

Locals who work and reside in the neighborhood come often for Brazilian cuisine, which is melting pot of flavors and spices. Since Brazil is a very big country with many regions, the food reflects the country’s mix of native and immigrant populations.

One of the most populous states, Minas Gerais, is best-known for its pao de queijo or small, baked cheese rolls. At Pampas Grill, these

irresistible rolls are made with cheese and yucca flour making them gluten free.

The chefs start cooking the popular weekend Brazilian dish, Feijoada, on Wednesday to be served all weekend long. In Brazil, this is considered the national dish. First they smoke and simmer pork. Then they add beef and beans and let it simmer over low heat for two days to bring out the exquisite traditional flavors.

Order the salad bar and hot dishes, such as the catfish stew cooked in slightly sweet coconut milk. For $1 extra per pound, add any BBQ meats.

Beer and South American wines are available. The white Argentina Filus photo by Jill Weinlein goes excellently with the fish and Friendly service adds to the Pampas experience. chicken dishes. Or try the Chilean P.K.N.T Silver Collection Pinot Noir with notes through Fri. to receive 20 percent off. Both locaof berries. It pairs nicely with the top sirloin, sir- tions are open daily from 10:30 a.m. to closing.

3857 Overland Ave (310)836-0080 and 6333 W. loin cap, and Tri-tip on long skewers.

Come early between 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Mon. Third St. #618 (323)931-1928.

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The New Blue’s Food & Brews

By AAron Blevins

Nothing says summer like Dodger baseball and Dodger Dogs, but there is certainly more on the menu this year.

At the end of March, Dodgers executives unveiled the $100 million renovation project that had commenced following the 2012 season. Among the upgrades were new scoreboards, restrooms, merchandise and, of course, food options.

Complementing the famous Dodger Dogs and traditional concessions, officials with Levy Restaurants have opened LA Taqueria on the Reserve Level and Elysian Park Grill on the Re-

serve Level and at the top of the park.

Inspired by West Coast flavors, Dodger Stadium executive chef Jason Tingley is hoping to take ballpark cuisine at Dodger Stadium up a few notches.

“We talk to Dodgers fans almost every day and we take their feedback back to the kitchen to deliver fun new menus and concepts that will get them excited to come out and grab a bite at the ballpark,” Tingley said. “We make sure there's truly something for everyone here at Dodger Stadium, from vegetarian and gluten-free options to kids menus and chefs' tables.

“We have the best fans in the world and they're really what make the menu here special — we work hard to make delicious food

photo by Aaron Blevins

Dodger Stadium received $100 million worth of upgrades over the offseason, and team officials focused on fans first.

that lives up to their great tastes.

We’re always in the kitchen getting creative, trying out new recipes and coming up with innovative ways to bring the menu to life in what's basically a restaurant for 56,000. Our team stays on top of the L.A. food scene and collaborates with local restaurants and sourcing partners to incorporate

the best local trends and ingredients. Street style food is becoming ever more popular, and one of our new concepts for this season, LA Taqueria, was inspired by the fantastic food trucks found on the streets of L.A." LA Taqueria’s new vibrant offerings include its Bacon Wrapped Picante Dog, an L.A. street-style

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picante dog wrapped in bacon and topped with grilled peppers and chopped onion.

The restaurant’s Camacho’s Nachos Supreme comes with sour cream, beans, nacho cheese, fresh guacamole, Pico de Gallo and carne asada or pork carnitas on top of crispy nacho chips.

The fresh fish tacos are battered and fried, topped with shredded cabbage and chile lime cream. LA Taqueria’s Street Style Tacos are offered with a choice of carne asada or pork carnitas, topped off with a cilantro and onion mix, salsa roja and a lime wedge.

Feeling parched while watching the Boys in Blue?

The new eatery has unveiled its Ravine Margarita, made frozen or on the rocks, with limeade and top-shelf tequila, garnished with a lime and salt.

Dining & Entertainment Magazine

At Elysian Park Grill, patrons can feast on a Dodger Blue Heaven Burger, a one-third pound handshaped premium beef patty piled high with blue cheese, caramelized onions and sliced tomato, topped off with pasilla chile and chipotle aioli and served on a French bun.

The restaurant also offers the Santa Fe Turkey Burger, which is topped with avocado puree, jack cheese, fresh lettuce and sliced tomato, served on a whole wheat bun.

Further, team executives strived to shorten the lines for the ballpark goodies. When the team held a press conference to show off the new Dodger digs, Janet Marie Smith, senior vice president of planning and development, said team chairman Mark Walters told employees to focus on the fans first.

“As Mark often said, ‘They

41 June 2013

photo courtesy of the Los Angeles Dodgers

LA Taqueria’s Street Style Tacos are among the new food options at Dodger Stadium.

don’t come here to stand in line.

They don’t come to stand in line for restrooms, for hotdogs or for lemonade, so do better than that,’” Smith said.

While the Dodgers have been thrown a few curveballs this year, there is still plenty of baseball to be played. Upcoming homestands will begin on June 6 against the Atlanta Braves, June 10 against the Arizona Diamondbacks, June 24,

San Francisco Giants; June 27, Philadelphia Phillies; July 11, Colorado Rockies; July 25, Cincinnati Reds; July 30, New York Yankees; Aug. 9, Tampa Bay Rays; Aug. 12, New York Mets; Aug. 23, Boston Red Sox; Aug. 26, Chicago Cubs; Aug. 30, San Diego Padres; Sept.

9, Diamondbacks; Sept. 12, Giants; and Sept. 27, Rockies.

The Dodgers were 22-29 as of May 30.

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Celebrity Chefs by jill weinlein and karen villalpando

Chefs are like rock stars. They are good-looking, charismatic, and have the confidence to brilliantly cook hundreds of meals a day. Julia Child was the original “celebrity chef” – she pioneered the trail for culinary masters to follow. Here are a few who have made their mark on Los Angeles and beyond.

Fabio viviani The first time I met Fabio was four years ago at his Toluca Lake restaurant, Osteria Firenze’s for its grand opening. I was so enamored with him and his business partner Jacopo Falleni. They both have a distinct confidence with their debonair good looks and suave Italian accent.

Fabio worked with Jacopo at Café Fiore in Ventura, where they put the sleepy beach town on the culinary map. Next they helped open Café Firenze in Moorpark and then Osteria Firenze in Toluca Lake.

Fabio Vivani

Recently, I was invited to a taping of his new Yahoo online cooking show, “Chow Ciao!” The production crew was taping Fabio skyping with his mother in Italy when I arrived. After the director yelled, “Cut,” Fabio graciously walked over and gave me a big hug and introduced me to his mother and father in Italy via the computer.

As the crew broke for lunch, Fabio offered me an invitation to have lunch with him. I caught up on his latest endeavors. “I’m so excited about my new restaurants in Chicago and my newest cookbook ‘Fabio’s Italian Kitchen’,” he said. Growing up in Florence, Italy, the cookbook is filled with tales of Fabio as a boy and 100 recipes from his grandmother, Nonna. She influenced Fabio to become the chef that he is today, he said.

Fabio’s charming personality has also helped him form relationships and partnerships with the media and companies like Bialetti Cookwear, Bertolli Olive Oil, Terlato Wine International and Yahoo.com.

Securing a reservation at his restaurants can be a little tricky due to his new popularity. Fabio is becoming one of the hottest chefs in the city.

Not only is he an excellent chef, Fabio is an entertainer and television personality. The food he creates comes from the heart and I can tell he puts all of his soul into it.

“The last time I had a day off was in October 2012. I enjoy what I do and wouldn’t want it any

Kris Morningstar

other way,” Fabio said. Go to one of his restaurants to have great food, but also to be in good company.

Firenze Osteria is located at 4212 Lankershim Boulevard, Universal City (818) 760-7081 • www.firenzeosteria.com. Café Firenze is at 563 W Los Angeles Ave., Moorpark, CA 93021 • (805) 532-0048 • www.cafefirenze.net

kris Morningstar Chef Kris Morningstar at Ray’s & Stark Bar uses only the freshest and most natural ingredients. So what does Chef Morningstar do to achieve the best produce? He has his very own garden full of produce and herbs behind the restaurant, of course.

His “hyper-seasonal” menu frequently rotates based on the ingredients grown on-site. Herbs grown in the garden include lemon verbena (used in many of the cocktails), Opal basil, borage (used in pasta dishes and as a garnish for seafood), geranium (used in cocktails and Chef Josh Graves’ ice cream), sorrel, lavender, sage and thyme. Morningstar enjoys walking outside of Ray’s and Stark Bar and ten seconds later holding a handful of just picked herbs and lettuces. When not in the kitchen, he works on his own garden at home.

Morningstar was inspired by his father to become a chef when he was very young. Morningstar loved to prepare family holiday meals and large dinner parties throughout high school and college as well.

After graduating with honors from the California School of Culinary Arts in Pasadena, Morningstar worked at some great dining establishments in LA, including One Pico at Shutters on the Beach, with Chef Suzanne Goin at A.O.C, and Chef Neal Fraser at Grace, before working with Joachim Splichal at the Michelin-starred Patina restaurant. Morningstar has a reputation for creating the dishes that no one else has created.

Some of the innovative dishes you’ll find on the menu at Ray’s are the wood roasted sunchokes (from the garden) and served with salsa verde. A sage pizza with Hen of the Woods mushrooms is topped with sottocenere cheese.

On the small plate list is Hamachi sashimi with watermelon radish; octopus in a Fresno chile sauce; and Chesapeake Bay soft shell crab with fava beans. Larger plates of pork belly with grits, Diver scallops and veal breast with polenta look very appealing.

Ray’s and Stark Bar - 5905 Wilshire Blvd. (323)857-6180. www.raysandstarkbar.com.

Susan Feniger Chef Susan Feniger is an awardwinning American chef, restaurateur, cookbook author, and radio and TV personality considered to be a leading authority on Latin American cuisine in the United States.

Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken became celebrities in 1981 when they opened City Café and later CITY restaurant on La Brea. Their

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43 June 2013

“The art of cooking is indeed a noble hobby, and a fully satisfying profession.

I’ve never run into a serious cook or chef of any age who didn’t say: ‘Every day I learn something new!’

Julia Child, from her book “Cooking With Master Chefs” success grew even more when this dynamic-duo opened Border Grill in Santa Monica and later in downtown Los Angeles.

These creative ladies appeared with in her PBS series “Cooking with Master Chefs” and later starred in “Too Hot Tamales” in

Feniger is a fantastic chef because of her innovative techniques and curious ideas that made her the next best thing in the culinary world. However, besides being a chef, Feniger is active in her community through the L.A Gay and Lesbian Center, the Scleroderma Research Foundation, and a movement called Share Our Strength to help end world hunger. Los Angeles is lucky to have this amazing woman and chef.

Street is located at 742 N. Highland Ave. (323)203-0500.

Scott Conant Recently I attended a 10th anniversary dinner party at Scarpetta in Beverly Hills to enjoy a onephoto by Jose Martinez of-a-kind celebratory Susan Feniger dinner at the Montage Hotel Beverly Hills and to the 1990s. She also appeared on meet celebrity chef Scott Conant. the second season of “Top Chef When Conant walked into the Masters” in 2010. kitchen of Scarpetta, we instantly Feniger opened the chic restau- felt his confident energy. The rant Street, where she’s know for brawny and charismatic chef is her millet puffs, Meatless Monday like a professional quarterback dishes and Kaya toast with a soy walking onto a field to lead a team glazed fried egg and coconut jam. to victory.

The menu at Street is unique beWorking side-by-side with Cocause Feniger combines different nant was Chef Alessandro Stratta elements of food to create a work of Scarpetta Beverly Hills; Craig of art. She can make the classic Strong of Studio at Montage Lahome-style dish of chicken and guna Beach; and Shawn Armwaffles into something elegant strong on Montage Deer Valley. with a street flare by adding some These esteemed chefs hustled spicy maple sauce and bacon. An- around the kitchen, one of the other favorite is the Moroccan most beautiful restaurant kitchens spiced lamb belly. Feniger creates I’ve seen, creating outstanding a new interpretation of this dish by cuisine. using succulent lamb belly rather While all of the chefs in the than the traditional pork belly. And kitchen are accomplished, Conant it’s absolutely delicious. has an air about him. His Scarpetta

restaurants can be found in New York, at the Beverly Hills Montage, at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Las Vegas, at the Thompson Toronto and at the Fontainebleau resort in Miami.

Conant is an extremely busy chef and television personality, as guest judge in “Top Chef”, “Chopped”, and as host and judge of “24 Hour Restaurant Battle”.

We toasted to the evening with a glass of Prosecco and nibbled on bite size creamy polenta cups with wild mushrooms and simple raw yellowtail with a pinch of sea salt and pickled red onion. Then we all sat inside the private Chef’s Table dining room to enjoy four signature dishes from each famed Montage chef.

Conant graced us with a sirloin of Kobe paired with his signature braised short ribs. The delicate beef looked like a match made in heaven next to the Kobe sirloin with flash fried spring vegetables and wild mushrooms. The surprise of this dish was a beef bone sliced in half and filled with luscious marrow, Parmesan and leeks. It was baked into a gratin and sublime. Conant is a master at his art and his acclaimed pasta sauce of tomatoes and basil. It is a must to experience his perfection of pasta. www.montagebeverlyhills.com/beverly-hillsrestaurants. 225 N. Canon Dr. Beverly Hills, (310)860-7970.

LA Live in downtown Los Angeles offers the spirit of Latin culture through food and unique libations.

Growing up in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Sedlar traveled extensively through Mexico, Latin American and Spain to become an expert on Latin cuisine.

In 2012 and 2013, the James Beard Foundation nominated Rivera for Outstanding Bar Program. Sedlar was named “Chef of the Year” by Esquire and also was nominated for “Best Chef Pacific” by the James Beard Foundation in 2012 and 2013. Sedlar’s extensive cocktail menu is one of a kind. The Barbacoa is a delicious surprise considering it is mezcal, chipotle, lime, ginger and beef jerky! These tempting combinations push the limit of your typical cocktail. Sedlar has created something special at Rivera and everyone is itching to go. Rivera, located at 1050 S. Flower St. #102 (213)749-1460.

Emily Villalpando also contributed to this story.

John Sedlar Rivera near

John Sedlar photo courtesy of bravotv

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Here’s to a lACMA Summer

By Edwin FolvEn

T

he Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) comes alive this summer with new art exhibits, lively concerts, classic film screenings and informative talks.

Guests can dance to the passionate music of the “Latin Sounds” series, catch a Stanley Kubrick film screening, or create their own paintings in classes led by experienced artists. Those looking to get a deeper look at the collection can join a daily tour or a discussion by the museum’s docents and art educators. When guests get hungry, everything from snacks to full gourmet meals are available at the LACMA Cafe, C+M and Ray’s.

The museum is kicking off its summer exhibition programming with a look at its history and future in “The Presence of the Past: Peter Zumthor Reconsiders LACMA”

photo courtesy of Museum associates/LACMA

Strap on your dancing shoes at one of LACMA’s many outdoor events during the summer season.

running Sunday, June 9 through Sept. 15. The exhibit, which is part of the Getty’s initiative, “Pacific Standard Time Presents: Modern Architecture in L.A.”, explores the work of Swiss architect Peter

Zumthor, who was commissioned to rethink the museum’s east campus. Visitors will gain new insight into how the museum functions, and how its buildings and exhibits are organized. It begins with a de-

tailed examination of the museum’s structures and the history of surrounding Hancock Park. It also focuses on Zumthor’s preliminary plans for a new building to house the permanent collection,

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with large models built by the architect’s studio.

For those with a passion for music, premiere musical artists from around the world take the stage in the “Sundays Live”, “Jazz at LACMA”, “Latin Sounds” and “Art & Music” series. Guests can also join in lively gallery discussions held regularly, such as “The Art of Looking” on June 13 at 12:30 p.m., in which educator Alicia Vogl Saenz explores Robert Irwin’s “Palm Garden” and other works.

Fans of the silver screen will enjoy the “Kubrick & Co.” screening series, with groundbreaking films such as “2001: A Space Odyssey” and “A Clockwork Orange”; and “Hans Richter: Film Is …”, an ongoing series being held in conjunction with the exhibit “Hans Richter: Encounters” about the early 30th Century German artist. Those looking for weekday fun can enjoy screenings of classic films on Tuesday’s at 1 p.m., such as

Dining & Entertainment Magazine

photos courtesy of Museum associates/LACMA

LACMA hosts various summers event that encourage attendees to set up a picnic (top) and enjoy live music (bottom).

Pampas Grill Farmers Market 6333 W 3rd St. # 618 (323) 931-1928

45 June 2013

the Marx Brother’s “Duck Soup” and “Horse Feathers” on June 18; and Alfred Hitchcock’s “Saboteur” on June 25.

Art lovers can also tour the current exhibits, “James Turell: A Retrospective”, “Henri Matisse: La Gerbe”, “Japanese Prints: Hokusai at LACMA” and “Stephen Prina: As He Remembers It”, or view special presentations planned throughout the summer. Additional upcoming exhibits include: • “Shaping Power: Luba Masterworks from the Royal Museum for Central Africa”; July 7-Jan. 5.

• Kitasono Katue: Surrealist Poet”; Aug. 3-Dec. 1.

• “Bajo el cielo de Mexico — Gabriel Figueroa: Fifty Years of Art & Film”; Sept. 22-Feb. 2.

• “John Divola: As Far as I Could Get”; Oct. 6–Feb. 2.

LACMA is located at 5905 Wilshire Blvd. For information and a complete schedule of events, call (323)857-6000, or visit www.lacma.org.

Pampas Grill Culver City 3857 Overland Ave. (310) 836-0080

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46 June 2013

Why run – when you can fly?

Sky Zone offers the ultimate out-of-the-box workout

By AAron BlevinS

A

ngelinos looking to get a “jump” on their summer physique — or those seeking to simply jump for joy — are invited to Sky Zone Torrance, where the staff can accommodate everything from birthday parties to cross training sessions.

A franchise of SkyZone Franchise Group, which is owned by Hancock Park resident Rick Platt and his family, Sky Zone Torrance is located on West 190th Street.

The indoor trampoline park offers open jumps, fitness classes and dodgeball games, all of which can burn up to 1,000 calories per hour.

Platt said Sky Zone facilities have been used for world champion athletes, though it can easily meet the needs of the average “couch potato.” He said the trampoline parks have been shown to help children with autism.

“It’s fun,” Platt said. “This is something we like to say and it’s 99 percent true: We truly have something for everybody regardless of age, size and ability. …The playing field adapts to you. It’s just an incredible workout, and it’s low-impact.”

For the last five decades, researchers have known about the cardiovascular benefits to jumping on a trampoline, he said. However,

Sky Zone amplified that concept, allowing patrons to jump both laterally and horizontally. The result is a workout that is “dynamic” and about “ten times more fun,” Platt said.

It is also good for children, and Platt said researchers have suggested that the workout could be the “magic pill” for the childhood obesity epidemic. In a University of South Florida study commissioned by Sky Zone, researchers found that children who jumped at the park for two hours over six weeks saw their leg strength increase 67 percent, body mass decrease 3 percent and weight increase 3 percent. The study also found academic improvements as well, Platt said.

At Sky Zone Torrance, patrons can participate in “Skyrobics”, dodgeball tournaments and games, open jumps, corporate events, “Skycamp” and school programs.

The location has a “sky basket” for elevated hoops-shooting and a foam pit to dive into.

For information, call (310)3234500, or visit www.skyzonesports.com. Sky Zone Torrance is located at 1625 W. 190th St. The company also has locations in Van Nuys, Covina, Anaheim and Riverside.

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T

he Hollywood Bowl is gearing up for an exciting summer season of concerts and special events held under the stars in the Hollywood Hills.

The season kicks-off on Saturday, June 22 with the “Opening Night at the Hollywood Bowl” benefit. Vocalist and entertainer Patti Austin, and critically acclaimed recording artist John Legend will be inducted into the Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame, along with Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, of “Aerosmith”. Each of the inductees will perform with the orchestra, and proceeds benefit educational programs conducted by the LA Phil, which operates the Bowl.

The music continues on Sunday, June 23 with She & Him, Emmylou Harris and Rodney Crowell; followed by the Reggae sounds of Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Stephen Marley and Third World on Sunday, June 30.

Audiences can participate in an annual summer tradition from Tuesday, July 2 through 4 during the “July 4th Fireworks Spectacular”. Sara Hicks will conduct the LA Philharmonic, and singer/songwriter Josh Groban will perform.

Fans of animation and classical music will enjoy “Bugs Bunny at the Symphony II” on Friday, July 5 and Saturday, July 6, with the LA Phil performing live alongside screenings of classic cartoons.

Other special events return this summer, such as the “Grease SingA-Long”, hosted by Didi Conn (“Frenchy” in the hit movie) on Saturday, July 13; the Tchaikovsky Fireworks Spectacular” on Friday, Aug. 16 and 17; and “Sing-ALong Sound of Music” on Saturday, Sept. 21.

The LA Phil performs in numerous classical music concerts throughout the season, such as “Elgar’s Cello Concerto” on Tuesday, July 16; “Verdi’s Requiem”, conducted by Gustavo Dudamel, on Tuesday, Aug. 13; and “Romantic Favorites”, with the music of Gershwin and Rachmaninoff, on Tuesday, Sept. 10.

HOLLYWOOD BOWL Sounds of Summer 2013

Numerous legendary entertainers and musical groups will also take the stage, such as Sergio Mendes, Herb Alpert and Lani Hall on Wednesday, July 17; Tony Bennett on Friday, Aug. 2; Willie Nelson & Family on Friday, Aug. 9 and Saturday, Aug. 10; and Earth, Wind and Fire from Friday, Sept. 13 through 15. Fans of musical theatre can also enjoy a production of “Chicago: The Musical” running Friday, July 26 through 28; and the Blue Man Group performs on Friday, Sept. 6 and Saturday, Sept. 7. LA Phil President and Chief Executive Officer Deborah Borda said the new season will be very exciting.

“For the artists and audiences alike, the Hollywood Bowl is a symbol of Los Angeles and of summer — the shared experience of extraordinary music in this most historic venue,” Borda said.

“There is something here for everyone.”

The Bowl is also the perfect place to have a picnic while enjoying the music. Guests can bring their own food and beverages to enjoy at their seats or in the 14 picnic areas. Gourmet food is also offered by the Patina Restaurant Groups’ Roof Top Grill, Staccato, Market Café, Market West and Sweet Shoppe. Box service is also available. Additionally, a new

by edwin folven

wine bar opens for the Summer Season on the Hollywood Bowl Marketplace level, where guests can sip wine in an outdoor seating area and bar.

The Hollywood Bowl, which opened for its first performance in 1921, remains one of the premiere concert destinations in Los Angeles. The 18,000-seat venue is located at 2301 N. Highland Ave. For information, call (323)8502000, or visit www. www.hollywoodbowl.com.

photo courtesy of Hollywood Bowl

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49 June 2013

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‘Oui, Oui’ to Finest French Sweets and Cuisine at Normandie Bakery

By Laura VaiLLaNCOurt

O

wned by the vivacious Chef Josette LeBlond, Normandie Bakery on Cochran Ave. employs 35 people who produce over 3,000 baguettes a day. Inside the bustling bakery, Josette has a retail cafe where local residents and businesses can purchase fresh baked baguettes, French and American pastries, croissants, cookies, cakes, breads, sandwiches, coffee and tea for breakfast or lunch. It is open Monday through Saturday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In 2011, Chef Josette expanded the Normandie brand to the Original Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax. Normandie Farmers Market serves breads, croissants, pastries, cakes and pies. In 2012 Chef Josette opened a restaurant in her Normandie Bakery calling it Josette’s Bistro, and serving authentic French bistro cuisine at af-

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photos courtesy of Normandie Bakery

Chef Josette LeBlond (right) creates a full culinary experience, from a café to main course to sweets (left) at Normandie Bakery.

fordable prices.

Catering has also been a large part of Normandie’s business for the past 20 years. Conventions, trade shows, weddings, office parties and birthday parties, have consistently requested not only Josette’s expertise as chef but her flair for putting together fine delicatessen, cheese, meat, pastry and fruit platters.

Normandie is dedicated to of-

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fering authentic French pates and baked goods to the wholesale industry. Normandie works on fulfilling special needs at competitive prices.

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3022 S. Cochran Ave. (323) 9395528, and in the Farmers Market at 6333 W. Third St. (323) 9301944. For more information visit www.chefjosette.com/normandie.r mandie Bakery.

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