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Entertainment Guide
L.A. OPERA debuts new "Rigoletto" production. Page 21
SHIP'S AHOY. HMS Bounty and its captain share a long history. Page 24
MUSICAL PERFORMED by Nine O'Clock Players stars a giant, a queen and a beanstalk. Page 27
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Calendar
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Deborah Harry, singersongwriter and front woman for the rock bank Blondie, will collaborate for the first time with performance artist Marina Abramović at the Museum of Contemporary Art at the museum’s gala on Sat., Nov. 12, at MOCA, at 250 S. Grand Ave.
Dukakis on Forum stage
“Vigil,” a dark comedy written and directed by Morris Panych and featuring Academy Award-winner Olympia Dukakis, opens Sun., Nov. 6 at the Mark Taper Forum. The play features a selfinvolved man who hurries to the bedside of his estranged, dying aunt. He becomes impatient when she continues to live, and as his visit stretches from days to months, her condition and their relationship evolve in unexpected ways. For tickets go to www.centertheatregroup.org.
LA Opera to stage ‘Romeo and Juliette’
“Romeo and Juliette” arrive at the Dorothy Chandler Paviilon on Sun. Nov. 6. The opera, with music by Charles Gounod, is based on Shakespeare’s tragedy. Tenor Vittorio Grigolo is making his debut in the LA Opera production that runs through Sat., Nov. 26. Call 213-972-8001.
MOCA unites two artists
played on period instruments by fortepianist Eric Zivian and cellist Tanya Tomkins. To purchase tickets, call the Da Camera Society at 213-477-2929 or visit www.DaCamera.org.
Shakespeare troupe direct from London "VIGIL" is at the Mark Taper Forum.
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Korean artwork at Center
Forty artists are showcasing paintings, sculptures, photography and other various artworks that reflect their identity, heritage and daily experience as a Korean American in an exhibit at the Korean Cultural Center, 5505 Wilshire Blvd. Runs through Thurs., Nov. 10. For information, call 323-936-7141 or go to www. kccla.org.
duo 11 Musical at Royce Hall Maya Beiser, cello virtuoso and Evelyn Glennie, percussionist are performing in the UCLA Live series on Fri., Nov. 11 at 8 p.m. in Royce Hall on the UCLA campus. The duo will perform new works including a piece by Pulitzer prize-winning composer David Lang. Go to UCLAlive.org. or call 310-825-2101.
William Shakespeare’s “The Comedy of Errors” begins a two-week run at the Broad Stage, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica on Sat., Nov. 12 through Sun., Nov. 27. Direct from London’s Globe Theatre, the troupe of English actors will enact the Bard’s comedy of mistaken identity. Visit www,thebroadstage.com for information.
13 Classically Neff-designed Stroll through the loggia of a Wallace Neff-designed Mediterranean villa on Sun., Nov. 13 at 2 and 4 p.m. Enjoy Beethoven’s cello sonatas
BLONDIE at MOCA.
Artists evaluate Watts legacy and future Hear artists John Outterbridge, Edgar Arceneaux and Andrew Zermeno and collector Stan Sanders speak on the Watts Legacy at the Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire Blvd. The free lecture covers the past and future of Watts as a creative hub, and will take place on Sun., Nov. 13 at 3 p.m. For more info, visit Hammer.ucla.edu.
This year at the Luckman Theatre! Marat Da Daukayev ayev Ballet Theat Theat atre re
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Dining & Entertainment Guide dashian have collaborated on the book “Dollhouse.” The trio will talk about their book on Nov. 18 at 7 p.m. at Barnes & Noble at The Grove. It’s the first fiction collaboration by the Kardashian sisters—who reveal the inner workings of a glamorous, high profile and complicated family.
Zappa's guitarist Mike Keneally
SINGER, SONGWRITER Lucinda Williams performs rock, folk, blues and country at the El Rey Theatre this month.
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Riverdance at Pantages
Didion 16 Joan at ALOUD
“Riverdance,” the celebration of Irish music, song and dance, returns to the Pantages Theatre from Tues., Nov. 15 to Sun., 20. For tickets, go to ww.pantages-theater.com.
The Library Foundation’s ALOUD series hosts author Joan Didion on Wed., Nov. 16 at 8 p.m. at the Vibiana, 214 S. Main St. The topic is “The White Album to Blue Nights.” Go to www.aloudla. org.
Dining Guide cover Our cover photo shows Jeff and Suzanne Buhai dining at Off Vine restaurant. Photo by Allison Shallert.
18 Kardashian musings Kourtney Kardashian, Kim Kardashian and Khloe Kar-
Frank Zappa’s “stunt guitarist” and keyboard virtuoso performs in the U.S. premiere of “The Universe Will Provide” at the REDCAT Theater at downtown's Disney Hall Nov. 18 at 8:30 p.m. He is joined with the 52-piece CalArts Or- STAR-CROSSED lovers are in the LA Opera production at the chestra. Tickets: $25; ($20 stu- Dorothy Chandler Pavilion opening Sun., Nov. 6. dents). Go to www.redcat.org. Lin on flute. Admission is by latest album, “Blessed.” Doors donation. open at 8 p.m. Trolley quartet
20 at Good Sam
Red Car Trolley vocal quartet is debuting in a concert at Good Samaritan Hospital’s All Souls Chapel Sun., Nov. 20 at 4:30 p.m. The singers wide range of repertoire is from early music to folk to popular songs. Guest instrumentalists are: David Burns on piano and Ethan
rock, Kettle Kick-off 22 Singing blues at El Rey 28 at the Market Grammy-award winner Lucinda Williams is on stage at the El Rey Theatre, 5515 Wilshire Blvd., Tues., Nov. 22 and Wed., Nov. 23. The rock, folk, blues and country music singer and songwriter will be performing songs from her
The Salvation Army Kettle Kick Off rings in the holiday season at the Farmers Market, Third St. and Fairfax Ave., on Mon., Nov. 28 at 5 p.m. Musical performances, including a children’s choir, are at the annual event.
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Dining & Entertainment Guide Pre-war heroics, doomsday fable are among stage offerings Do you feel like a trip down memory lane when life was simpler and we were all on the same page? The 1940’s Radio Hour by Walton Jones is a breath of fresh air and a nostalgic trip into history. World War II is on the horizon, and a snowstorm has made broadcasting difficult. Those performers who manage to get to the station put on a hell of a show. Director Nan McNamara has gone beyond the surface to develop each of the characters’ stories beyond their radio personalities. From Johnnie Cantone, the discouraged leading man (a terrific Michael Downing), to the multi-tasking Pops Bailey (Gary Ballard) to the plucked-from-obscurity Ben Ryan (Wally Ferguson), this makes the evening an even richer experience for the audience. The ensemble cast is outstanding and their vocal mix a pleasure as they sing the iconic score: everything from “I’ve Got a Gal in Kalamazoo” to “Old Black Magic” and more. Kudos to musical director Linda Kerns. Through Nov. 13. Actors Co-
Op’s Crossley Theatre, 1760 N. Gower St., 323-462-8460. 4 Stars *** When the evening begins with the treacley song, “How
Theater Review by
Patricia Foster Rye
Much Is that Doggie in the Window?” you automatically expect the opposite. Monkey Adored by Henry Murray doesn’t disappoint. The play is a cross species, cross gender, part allegory, futuristic doomsday fable. The tale is told by a group of animals who meet regularly for coffee at Le Café Café in a fictional time and place. Brown Spot the dog (David Mauer) is in love with Sonny Bonobo the monkey (Edward Tournier), but they have bigger problems as Man is after them for laboratory experimentation. There’s
the difficult to understand cat, Madeline Kahn (Amanda Mauer), who’s adapted Ms. Kahn’s accent in “Blazing Saddles” as well as her name. Add to the group rapping James Rat (Patrick Flanagan) as well as the pragmatists Penguinito (Ron Bottitta) and Elaine Ostrich (Jennifer Taub). The interesting rear projections by Adam Fleming are a litany of man’s thoughtless relationship with animals: circus elephants, etc. The play’s subject matter is timely, but it wanders too much between cleverness and obviousness to be the chilling indictment it could be. Through Nov. 20. Rogue Machine, 5041 W. Pico Blvd., 855-585-5185. 3 Stars *** Dusk Rings a Bell by Stephen Belber is a two-character memory play. It takes place on a deserted beach on the east coast off-season. Molly (Thea Gill) has returned to retrieve a lost letter from her youth. She meets Ray (Josh Randall), a local she hasn’t seen since they spent a romantic summer afternoon when they were teenagers. As the
BRAVING A SNOWSTORM are, from left, Brian Habicht, Gina D’Acciaro, Tawny Mertes, Jeffrey Scott Parsons of “The 1940’s Radio Hour.” Photo by Lindsay Schnebly
play progresses Ray’s past is revealed and Molly’s life disappointment becomes apparent. Daniel Henning’s direction is pitch-perfect, and Mr. Randall’s performance makes the realistic dialogue moving and affecting. Set design by Kurt Boetcher, lighting design by Stephanette Smith and sound design by Warren Davis evoke the moody setting perfectly. Through Nov. 13. The Blank’s 2nd Stage Theatre, 6500 Santa Monica Blvd. 323-
4 Stars *** Moses Supposes by Ellen Melaver centers on the 35th wedding anniversary of Cookie (Karen Black) and Marvin (David Proval). Their grown children Cece (Sara Sankowich) and Raymond (Elijah Kranski) have returned to their Jewish home in the South for the event, each with their own suitcase full of revelations. Black (a Golden Globe (Please turn to page 22)
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Dining & Entertainment Guide Bartender tells what’s hot this season
SHAKEN or stirred, the pisco sour hails from Peru.
more whiskey, cognac and dark rums. Q: Will there be a winter list? A: We change the program every time a new season comes. We do seasonal offerings to keep things fresh. Often times, we do get people hooked on drinks. Then the season changes, and we get them to try new drinks. Then the season comes back around, they see their favorite drinks, and they start to remember. Q: What would you recom-
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The Palm Springs Follies opens its new show titled “Hot! Hot! Hot!� in November with guest star John Davidson. Davidson is known for his appearances on television shows as “Hollywood Squares� and “That’s Incredible!� His show business career began 47 years ago. Fresh with a drama degree, he immediately landed on Broadway, co-starring in the musical “Foxy,� opposite Bert Lahr. The Follies celebrates the music and dance of mid-century America with a cast of former showgirls ranging in age from 58 to 82 years “young.�
mend first-timers try at Picca? A: If you’re at Picca, and you’re not a big cocktail drinker, the pisco sour is the national drink of Peru, and the one we do there. A lot of people think it’s a really great version, a really traditional pisco sour. It can be kind of hard to try a lot of my drinks. They’re really adventurous in style, and you won’t know if you’re going to like them unless you actually try them. It’s tough, if you’re not a huge drinker, to know what some of these spirits are. If you’re not familiar with Peruvian food or Peruvian drinks, the pisco sour is a really good place to start. I tell people: don’t worry about the spirits. So if you like apple, try Boots with Fur—it’s made with brandy, pisco, and fresh granny smith apple. It’s really a nice fall-style cocktail. Playa, 7360 Beverly Blvd., 323-933-5300; Picca, 9575 W. Pico Blvd. 310- 277-0133.
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By Steven Armstrong Dining columnist We recently caught up with Julian Cox, the award-winning bartender (or “mixologist�) at Playa, the Latin-inspired restaurant on Beverly, and Picca, the Peruvian-inspired restaurant on Pico—two of the hottest new restaurants of 2011. Q: What’s your favorite part about being a bartender? A: Probably taking care of people, having conversations with people. The whole interpersonal interaction is pretty awesome. That’s what I enjoy. Q: How has the cocktail program changed at Playa this fall? A: When we head into fall, we definitely try to play off the season. People have ideas about what the seasons are supposed to be, and what they’re supposed to bring. So we use more apple and pear, the flavor of apple cider, pimento dram, that kind of thing. We use more dark spirits—less gin and vodka, and
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Dining & Entertainment Guide Cuisine and conversation are theme of Aspen’s new book Entertainment expert and Brookside’s Nelson Aspen has penned a new book “Dinner at Nelson’s.” Released by New
Holland Publishers, it follows up on his earlier ”Let’s Dish Up a Dinner Party” and “Hollywood Insider: Exposed!”
In the latest, Aspen shares some of his favorite showbiz party secrets. Featured are 12 dinner parties complete with
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menus and recipes, which are themed around different celebrities, some of whom he interviews. For example, he served Tony Curtis broccoli soup, glazed carrots, beef bourguignon, zesty blueberry angel food cake and cosmo and champers cocktails. The menus are created from his celebrity pals’ personal recipes, dishes from famous restaurants and his own archives. “Dinner at Nelson’s” can be purchased at amazon.com.
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Residents share favorite places to enjoy brunch Brunch menus can range from a $6 omelet at Charlie’s in the Farmers Market to a $68 buffet at the Four Seasons Hotel. We asked Larchmont Chronicle readers to tell us some of the places they recommend for an enjoyable late morning meal. When Scott and Wendy Clifford decide to treat themselves to brunch, they often choose Pacific Dining Car. It’s an easy drive from their Windsor Square home to 1310 W. Sixth St. The diner is marking its 90th birthday this year. 213-483-6000. Another landmark is the former Huntington Hotel in Pasadena. Now called The Langham, its buffet draws Mad-
eline and Bernie Sackmar of Hancock Park. Madeline likes the refined atmosphere of the restaurant as well as the eggs Benedict. Nate Shimizu of Miracle Mile likes City Best Chicken at 5303 W. Pico Blvd., near Cochran Ave. Nate said it has a great Mediterranean menu and an outdoor patio. 323938-7409. The gospel brunch at the House of Blues appeals to Laura Foti Cohen of Brookside. The brunch is offered every other Sunday at 8430 Sunset Blvd. There’s a carving station, an omelet station and a variety of desserts, all this while enjoying the gospel singers. Cost is $40.50.
Corporal punishment in three states is documentary topic of area filmmaker
Jared Abrams, Gower St., is filming a documentary on the use of corporal punishment in U.S. public schools. Abrams said the film will focus on three states with the most number of reported hits: Alabama, Mississippi and Texas. His production company Wide Open Camera is producing the film. The company was in Texas filming P.O.P.S (Parents Opposed To Paddling Students) and president Jimmy Dunne. His one-man crusade has produced some stunning results, Abrams said. There is currently legislation on Texas Gov. Rick Perry’s desk banning corporal punishment in the state. The filmmakers also will interview Rep. Carolyn McCarthy of N.Y. who has proposed a bill to ban the practice on the national level.
Wild Oats plans move downtown
After 17 years, Wild Oats Café has closed its restaurant at 5630 Melrose Ave. and is planning to open in a new location near LA Live. Co-owner Ron Cortes has joined Tatleaux Management Group and will spearhead its NextOats Food Group. Plans include organic and farm-totable cuisine.
Theater Review
(Continued from page 20) winner) doesn’t disappoint as the repressed Cookie struggling for a place in life post empty-nest. Proval’s performance as Marvin is hampered by his hybrid southern accent and fragmented mannerisms. Director Lee Sankowich keeps the comedic pace throughout. Through Dec. 4. Zephyr Theatre, 7456 Melrose Ave., 800-838-3006. 3 Stars
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Dining & Entertainment Guide Pop-up restaurant opens evenings at Larchmont Larder
Marat soiree benefits annual ‘Nutcracker’
Marat Daukayev Ballet School will celebrate its “Angel” donors at the Angel Soiree on Sat., Nov. 12, with refreshments and entertainment. The event, hosted at the home of Douglas and Justine Cook, will benefit the Ballet’s annual production of “The Nutcracker,” which will move from its previous location at the Japan America Theatre to the Luckman Fine Arts Complex on the campus of Cal State LA. The event hopes to raise funds to cover the increased cost of the new venue. Go to www.maratdaukayev.com.
partner Christie McDonald to introduce their exotic food in a casual atmosphere. Pop-ups, which have lately become a trend, give chefs a chance to experiment and
introduce their food to the public. “The Larchmont Larder will still be your local go-to café, carrying the same delicious foods and market items,” said
owner Michael Beglinger. Larder hours are Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. “If you have ordered Wednesday Night Dinners, you will still be able to pick them up
after 3 p.m.,” Beglinger added. Saigon Noodle House hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 5 to 10 p.m., Saturdays, 5 to 11 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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The Saigon Noodle House has begun serving casual, fresh French-Vietnamese cuisine in the evenings at the Larchmont Larder, 626 N. Larchmont Blvd. Chef of the new “pop-up”— or temporary—restaurant is Phuong Tran, former proprietor and chef of Benley of Long Beach. Tran teamed up with friend and business
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Dining & Entertainment Guide Old-timers to hipsters keep Wilshire's HMS Bounty going strong By Laura Eversz Ramon Castaneda’s rise to the top began in 1961 when the teenager covered for his ailing stepfather, who worked as a porter at the HMS Bounty Restaurant at 3357 Wilshire Blvd. It wasn’t long before owner Gordon Fields promoted the young man to busboy. Pretty soon, the boss made him a waiter; after that, Castaneda donned a tuxedo as the
Bounty’s captain. “It was very elegant back then… we served Chateaubriand, steak tartare. We carved the meat and tossed the Caesar salad tableside,” he recalls. Cherries jubilee and peach flambé were popular dessert choices, until the fire department banned the tableside pyrotechnics. Later, when the bartender phoned in sick, Fields once
again called on the young man. “Customers were ordering margaritas, Manhattans,” recalled Castaneda, who had never tended bar before. But he listened and learned, and worked as the Bounty’s barkeep for the next 20 years. After Fields, who “was like a father to me,” passed away in 1998, Castaneda took out a second mortgage on his home and purchased the business. Not much has changed since then, and the proprietor likes it that way. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” he says. The restaurant’s interior remains largely the same as it was when it first opened in 1948. Portholes and paintings of ships hung on dark wood paneling highlight the HMS Bounty’s nautical theme. Dimly-lit red naugahyde booths feature plaques above them with the names of legends who once sat there. The Bounty’s history— Winston Churchill, Walter Winchell and William Randolph Hearst were known to cross Wilshire Blvd. from the Ambassador Hotel—is part of its charm. But the real magic is how young and old come together on any given night to share conversation over generously poured drinks. There’s no “Happy Hour” per se—well drinks are $3.60 after Castaneda recently raised
OWNER Ramon Castaneda was 18 years old when he started as a porter at the HMS Bounty in 1961.
the price a dime—but stop by on a Friday at about 6 p.m. and you’ll be lucky to find a seat at the bar. Regulars like 84-year-old Corky, who played tenor sax with Harry James and Tommy Dorsey in the 40s, and Hank, 94, who used to tend bar at the Bounty, sit side by side with patrons in their 20s and 30s, some who live next door at the Gaylord Hotel. Even the two jukeboxes— one takes quarters and is filled with 45s featuring Dean Martin, Ella and Frank, the other requires dollar bills to hear more current CDs—share space in the bar. There’s an easy camaraderie at the Bounty that’s just the ticket after a long day. Newcomers are welcomed. Birthdays and special occasions are celebrated with enthusiasm; not a holiday goes by without the bar and restaurant being decorated for the occasion by Castaneda’s wife, Hilda. And then there’s the food. “I wanted to have something for everyone and I wanted them
to have what they wanted at any time,” said Ramon. At the Bounty, customers can order breakfast items, soups and sandwiches to fish, steaks and chops every day from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The Bounty’s meat has come from the same butcher for 45 years. “Like I said, if it’s good, why change,” says Castaneda. Prices range from $6.50 for a sandwich and side, $9.95 for fish and chips to $11.95 for a baseball steak (my personal favorite) or two gigantic, perfectly cooked pork chops for $14.95. Castaneda, 66, recently signed another 10-year lease on the space. “My lawyer said I’m crazy, but I love it and I want to keep it.” Maybe his son will take over some day, I mused. Steven, 26, has a chemical engineering degree and is attending law school with plans to become a patent attorney. “But he says when I need him, he’ll take over,” said his dad.
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Dining & Entertainment Guide Fig & Olive prices revert back following fundraiser In September, President Obama arrived at the Fig & Olive for a private fundraising dinner. The event attracted some of Hollywood’s heaviest hitters, including Judd Apatow, Jeffrey Katzenberg and Governor Jerry Brown. But if you weren’t one of the 120 guests in attendance, and didn’t get a chance to drop $17,900 on a single meal, fret not. You can still eat what they ate, and for a fraction of the price. The entree options that evening included striped bass, free range organic chicken breast, and rosemary lamb chops—all available on Fig & Olive’s regular dinner menu. 8490 Melrose Pl., West Hollywood, 310-360-9100. ***
If you work downtown, or find yourself anywhere near Bunker Hill’s California Plaza during the weekday lunch hour, you’d do well to visit Starry Kitchen. Owned and operated by husband and wife team Nguyen Tran and Thi Tran, Starry Kitchen offers a small, rotating pan-Asian lunch menu throughout the workweek, and dinner every Thursday and Friday. The restaurant isn’t much to look at, but the prices are more than reasonable, and the food is, well, delicious. Just be prepared to get your meal with a side of humor (think Nguyen dressed in a banana suit, or adult-themed menu items). And don’t fear the exorbitant parking rates; the restaurant
Discover the Fantasy
erly Hills. It may not sound exciting, but the Crescent, with its cozy vibe and tasty autumn menu, has a way of transporting you to a more relaxed realm. Try the branzino with risotto and pomegranate beurre blanc, or the
Dining Out by
Steven Armstrong
validates. 350 S. Grand Ave., 213-617-3474. *** Sometimes you just need to get away. But if a vacation isn’t in your immediate future, consider an evening at the Crescent Hotel in Bev-
Peter Yarrow of the American folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary takes the stage at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd. on Sun., Nov. 13 from 2 to 3 p.m. Yarrow will perform songs for children and read from his new popup book, “Puff, the Magic Dragon.” A book signing follows. Free; reservations are recommended.
Hope Lutheran Church, 6720 Melrose Ave., is marking its 69th birthday with a concert followed by an Oktoberfest luncheon on Sun., Nov. 6 beginning at 10:30 a.m.
OpeN 7 Days a Week
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DRESDEN Restaurant & Lounge
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Family concert at Skirball Nov. 16
Church concert, party
The not-so-ordinary Thai Restaurant
autumn squash ravioli with portobello, roasted walnuts, and sage brown butter sauce. Or for brunch, we recommend the miniature pancakes with brulée banana, candied pecans, and whipped maple butter, or the brunch salad. 403 N. Crescent Dr., Beverly Hills, 310- 247-0505.
FIRST COURSE Purée of Carrot/Ginger Soup
SECOND COURSE Off Vine Salad
DESSERT COURSE Choice of
Mixed Field Greens with Roasted Pecans & Bleu Cheese tossed with a Balsamic Vinaigrette
Home-made Pumpkin Pie
ENTREE COURSE
Beglian Chocolate Flourless Torte
Choice of
with hazelnut sauce & fresh whipped cream
Roast Free-Range Turkey
Fresh Seasonal Berries
with Traditional Stuffing & Gravy
with creme Anglaise
Prime Rib of Beef
Off Vine’s Famous Souffles
with Cinnamon Gelato
with a Portobello mushroom-horseradish sauce
Chocolate • Raspberry • Grand-Marnier • Pumpkin
Sauteed Filet of Wild Salmon
Seatings are from 2:00p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
with a Pomegranate Cabernet Sauce
All served with mashed potatoes, yams, and roasted seasonal vegetables
Call Today for reservations $50.00 per person not including tax, gratuity and beverages
Reservations Recommended
(323)665-4294 Mon - Sat 5 - 11pm Sun 5 - 10pm
Marty and Elayne in the World-Famous Lounge
1760 N. VermoNt AVe. IN Los FeLIz VILLAge (valet Parking) • www.thedresden.com
6263 Leland Way Hollywood CA. 90028 323-962-1900 www.offvine.com offvinerestaurant@sbcglobal.net
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Dining & Entertainment Guide Impresario finds new outlet on internet to promote cheese her website. “I’m so excited to have found a new medium in which I can share my passion with cheese lovers everywhere.” Originally, Lynn wanted to be a grammar school teacher. When she shifted focus to her first love, cheese, she discovered that she could still be an educator but in a different subject matter all together. “I wanted to teach people
Larchmont Deli and Market
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Moussaka • Quiche Lorraine Meatloaf Dinner • Turkey Dinner Chicken Breast with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy &Much, Much More!
not to be afraid of cheese,” she says. “I wanted to spread the love and get people more comfortable with eating and pairing it.” Back in 2002, Lynn was working as an advertising executive when she and a friend attended one of the Slow Food movement’s cheese-tasting events, and from that moment forward it was full speed ahead. “I started studying, taking every class, traveling, reading, tasting every cheese that I could,” said Lynn in 2009. Her extreme knowledge of cheese led to starting a business venture where she hosts private cheese gatherings as well as her “artisanal wine and cheese experience,” which was included in the 2006 Academy Awards goodie bag for that year’s winners and presenters. After appearing on television and in numerous magazines and newspapers, one of Lynn’s friends recently connected her with the Small Screen Network. The online company provides her with an outlet to educate cheese lovers who live beyond the Los Angeles area. The five-to-ten minute web shorts are designed to entertain and to teach. “What is Cheese,” “How to Store Cheese,” and “To Rind or Not (Please turn to page 28)
ANYTIME
GREAT STEAKS, FRESH SEAFOOD, SALADS AND SANDWICHES ARE IN BOUNTIFUL QUANTITY & QUALITY ON BOARD THE H.M.S. BOUNTY. LUNCH & DINNER ARE SERVED 7 DAYS A WEEK. WELCOME ABOARD MATES.
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Between Alexandria & Catalina
Fresh dough hand-spun Fresh Produce The best Wisconsin cheese Homemade meats, sauces All we are saying is … & dressings “Give a Piece a Chance” • Catering & Party needs “baked ziti - sex on a plate”– Merrill Shindler – ZAGAT • Craft Service “mighty meatballs”– L.A. Times • Delivery “visiting with Huell Howser”– KCET/PBS broadcast
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• • • •
323-465-5566
CHOW TIME
213-385-7275 3357 Wilshire Blvd.
Brooklyn flavor California“FRESH” since 1997.
131 N. Larchmont Blvd.
WEB PROVIDES outlet for Barrie Lynn to educate cheese lovers who live beyond the L.A. area.
6363 Yucca St.
323-790-0763
www.villagepizzeria.net
hmsbounty.net
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By Sondi Toll Sepenuk Guest Columnist Hancock Park resident Barrie Lynn, the self-proclaimed Cheese Impresario, has taken her love of cheese and gone online. “I’m ecstatic to report that I’ve teamed up with Small Screen Network to produce a web-based video series on all things cheese, aptly named, ‘Cheese Rules,’” says Lynn on
Larchmont Chronicle
November 2011
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Dining & Entertainment Guide Steinways, 2008 sinking economy portrayed in films securities in 2008. When Irons demands that they sell everything they have when the market opens, Spacey objects because, he says, they know that what they will be selling is worthless. Irons: “We are
At the Movies with
Tony Medley selling to willing buyers at the current fair market price so that we may SURVIVE.” Spacey: “We may never sell to any of those people again.” Irons: “I understand.” Spacey: “Do you.” Irons: “Do YOU?” The Ides of March (9/10): Despite innumerable annoying ECU’s (extreme closeups) with which director/star George Clooney always peppers his films (especially when he’s the subject of the ECUs), he ably directs an exceptional cast in award-quality perfor-
Nine-O’Clock Players to stage ‘Beanstalk’ starting November 6 The tale of Jack and the Jack, who must face down the Beanstalk will be told and evil Giant to save the queen. sung by the Nine O’Clock Performances are at 2 p.m. Players Theatre for on Saturdays, Dec. Children in perfor- PHOTO PAGE 17 3 and 10, and Sunmances through Sun., Dec. days, Nov. 6, 13, 27 and Dec. 11 at the Assistance League of 4 and 11. Tickets are $12. Call Southern California, 1367 N. 323-469-1970 or visit www. St. Andrews Pl. nineoclockplayers.com. Pro“Jack and the Giant” is based ceeds support the Assistance on a book by Tim Kelly, music League, which provides serand lyrics by Bill Francoeur. It vices to 95,000 individuals tells the story of a small boy, with critical needs each year.
mances in this devastating indictment of the business of running for political office. Watching Philip Seymour Hoffman and Paul Giamatti in this film is capturing acting magic. The Mighty Macs (7/10): This is a true, heart-warming story of a novice women’s basketball coach, Carla Gugino, persevering in the face of enormous odds. Gugino carries the film but the performances of the entire cast shine. With a fine script written and directed by Tim Chambers, and highlighted by the exceptional cinematography of Chuck Cohen, this isn’t a basketball movie; it’s a film about hanging in there. Anonymous (4/10): Another disappointing, overly long, convoluted, confusing, fatuous film from the master of the genre, director Roland Emmerich, trying to prove that Shakespeare not only didn’t write anything, but that he was illiterate. The Big Year (2/10): Poor Owen Wilson finds himself in yet another rotten movie. He’s joined by Steve Martin and Jack Black, no strangers to the genre, in this uninivolving tale that even beautiful scenery can’t redeem. The Double (2/10): Even though the music is pretty
good, despite competent stars like Richard Gere and Topher Grace, burdened by major plotholes, this is hopelessly silly. The Conquest (1/10): Instead of spending 1,200 hours creating wigs for Denis Podaydès, playing 2007 French presidential candidate Nicolas Sarkosy (yes, you read that right), the producers could have better spent the time getting a
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Pianomania (9/10): While this is full of excerpts of beautiful classical music by the masters, this is not about music. It’s about the handling and care of the instrument and the talented perfectionists who play it, told through the eyes of Stefan Knϋpfe, the chief technician and master tuner for Steinway & Sons, considered by many to make the best pianos in the world. Winner of prizes, awards and nominations in seven different European film festivals, this is a fascinating, eye-opening look at what goes on behind the concerts. Opens November 11. In English & German. Margin Call (9/10): Highlighted by captivating performances by Kevin Spacey, Jeremy Irons and Simon Baker, the film may be summarized by a telling dialogue between Kevin Spacey and Jeremy Irons that sets the tone of this thriller about 24 hours in the life of a multibillion dollar investment firm about to go under due to the collapse of the market for mortgage-backed
scriptwriter and director who could produce a political film that was not as mind-numbingly tedious as this. Opens Nov. 11. In French. The Son of No One (0/10): This is a revolting, profane, dark, humorless film filled with f-bombs by everyone, which is not surprising given the presence in the cast of Ray Liotta, the king of the F-bomb. Advertised as a “searing police thriller,” it’s as depressing and cheerless a film as one can get.
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Dining & Entertainment Guide Annual Christmas parade Nov. 27
Music, Santa on hand for The Grove tree lighting event
The Hollywood Christmas Parade will celebrate its 80th anniversary when it glides down Hollywood Blvd. on Sun., Nov. 27 at 6 p.m. This year’s parade will feature film and television celebrities, music, equestrians, floats, balloons, and, of course, Santa Claus. As of press time, the Grand Marshal had not yet been announced. Previous marshals include Larry King, George
Lighting of The Grove’s 110foot tall tree, complete with 15,000 ornaments and 100,000 lights, will take place on Sun., Nov. 13 at 7:30 p.m. The event will include live music, celebrity appearances, Santa’s arrival and fireworks. In the days following, snow will fall at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. while the fountain dances to choreographed holiday favorites like “White Christmas.” Santa will be in residence in his cottage daily through Christmas Eve, while carolers and musical ensembles will be on hand to perform nightly. The event marks the kickoff of Make-A-Wish Foundation's annual Season of Wishes campaign. From Tues., Nov. 15 through
Lopez and Mickey Rooney. The parade takes place along a 2.5 mile, U-shaped route beginning on Hollywood Blvd. in front of Grauman's Chinese Theater. It then turns south on Vine and West on Sunset. The parade is free, but reserved grandstand seating can be purchased for $35. For more information, call 866-727-2331 or go to TheHollywoodChristmasParade. com.
Ulysses Voyage A Culinary Odyssey in Traditional Greek Dining
Sat., Dec. 24, take your Grove receipts to the Concierge and five percent of your total pur-
chases will be donated to the local school of your choice. Go to www.thegrovela.com.
Cheese
Full Bar • Live Music Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner In the Farmers Market • 3rd and Fairfax 323-939-9728 • ulyssesvoyage.com
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(Continued from page 26) to Rind” are just a few examples of the issues she tackles. Local celebrity chef Mark Peel, “Three Sheets” Zane Lamprey, and the San Diego Chargers Shaun Phillips have all joined Lynn on her web show for a little fun and cheese education. She is currently shooting more episodes and looks forward to sharing her insights and knowledge with her new online fans. For more information, go to TheCheeseImpresario.com.
Bricks and Scones offers quality coffee, tea, pastries, sandwiches and more in a welcoming and cozy environment. The upstairs “Study” remains quiet and ideal for reading and writing while the main dining area has a living room-like vibe with ample seating and its own “library.” Featuring Intelligentsia coffee and goods baked fresh inhouse daily, Bricks and Scones is the ideal place to cozy up this fall.
ALL-NEW SHOW WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA
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“It’s 5,000 years of Chinese history in two hours of performance .” — Wall Street Journal
“An extraordinary experience...” — Cate Blanchett, Academy Award-winning actress
“So inspiring... I may have found some new ideas for the next Avatar movie.” — Robert Stromberg, Academy Award-winning production designer for Avatar
Jan 11 - 12, 2012
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Larchmont Chronicle
November 2011
SeCTIoN oNe
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Dining & Entertainment Guide New restaurants open in Miracle Mile locales
Hollywood Historic Hotel
wines. The menu includes various versions of schnitzel, sausages, potato pancakes, and dining inside or on the patio. Short Order, a burger bar, has opened adjacent to DuPar’s restaurant at the Farmers Market at Third St. and Fairfax Ave. The eatery also serves deviled eggs, fries, onion rings and custard shakes. It has a full liquor license. An adjacent bakery, Short Cake, is supply-
ing the baked goods for Short Order, and also offers pies, sandwiches, salads and tarts. Sycamore Kitchen is the proposed name of the new restaurant Quinn Hadfield and his wife Karen are planning to open on La Brea Ave. across the street from American Rag. The casual dining spot is expected to open early 2012 encompassing 2,000 square feet of indoor and courtyard patio.
WINE LOUNGE
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MEDICS TUNE UP. The Los Angeles Doctors Symphony Orchestra will hold its opening concert of the season at Fiesta Hall in West Hollywood’s Plummer Park on Sun., Nov. 20 at 3 p.m. The orchestra will also present a series of concerts at its new permanent home, the Ebell of Los Angeles.
Choices among the new restaurants opening within the neighborhood range from a rooftop dining experience to a well-stocked wine bar/cafe. The Roof at the Hotel Wilshire, 6317 Wilshire Blvd., has enlisted Eric Greenspan as its chef. The restaurant specializes in creative twists on classic comfort foods. Guests will enjoy panoramic views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Hills while dining. Slow Fish LA has opened in the Art Deco Dominguez building in the former Cafe Flourish space at 5406 Wilshire Blvd. Signature dishes include the appetizer Fat Avo, seared albacore covered in avocado; another favorite is black rice sushi. Open for lunch and dinner, Slow Fish is a branch of the Huntington Beach restaurant. Good food and good wine combine to make 3Twenty a popular destination. Menu favorites include scallops and steak with blue cheese sauce. Diners are given a wine card to use in dispensers. Each two-ounce taste can cost from $2 on up. Wursthaus, 345 N. La Brea Ave., is a traditional German pub, specializing in authentic German food and freshly tapped beer. It stocks 35 German beers and a wide selection of German and Austrian
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Dining Guide 2011 3Twenty Wine Lounge 320 S. La Brea Ave. 323-327-6146
This new café boasts an appetizing array of menu items plus more than 100 wines selected by owner/sommelier Edgar Poureshagh. Open for lunch and dinner, a wine dispenser lets diners sample his choices.
Antonio’s
7470 Melrose Ave. 323-655-0480 antoniosonmelrose.com Traditional Mexican cuisine where Antonio and his son treat customers like family. Menu items range from all parts of Mexico and include a variety of tequilas and wines.
Bricks & Scones
403 N. Larchmont Blvd. 323-463-0811 bricksandscones.com Lunch menu includes soups, salads and sandwiches, or enjoy homemade pastries with coffee or tea. Get the afternoon tea with your choice of scones. Relaxed ambiance plus free wi-fi.
Chan Dara
310 N. Larchmont Blvd. 323-467-1052 chandararestaurants.com California Thai fusion with authentic Siamese décor and friendly service, but also does take-out and delivery. House specials include duck marinated in honey and hoisin, served with coconut rice.
The Dresden
1760 N. Vermont Ave. 323-665-4294 thedresden.com An American traditional restaurant from the lounge to the food, it is a Hollywood landmark with a unique ambiance. Menu items include filet mignon, prime rib and roast rack of lamb. Entertainment is provided by Marty and Elayne.
El Coyote
7312 Beverly Blvd. 323-9392255 elcoyotecafe.com An 80-year-old tradition, El Coyote is a family-owned and
family-friendly Mexican restaurant. House margerita is a good price, or try the Cadillac as a treat. Especiales de la casa include green corn tamales and shrimp fajitas.
is located in the same building as the Gaylord Apartments. Known more for its bar than the restaurant, the menu offers reasonably priced lamb, steak, pork chops and sea bass.
Fabiolus
Larchmont Deli
6270 Sunset Blvd. 323-467-2882 fabiolus.org Authentic, homemade Italian (Verona) cuisine with a romantic ambiance and outdoor dining. Serves full brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Within walking distance of the Pantages Theater, Doolittle Theater and the Cinerama Dome.
Farmers Market Bars
5210 W. Beverly Blvd. 323-466-1193 larchmont-deli.com Fast, friendly service and Greek inspired dishes are featured in this delicatessen. For businesses in the area, they have an extensive catering menu and provide delivery. Try the Larchmont sandwich: ham, turkey, salami, provolone and Swiss on your choice of bread.
6333 W. 3rd St. 323-933-9211 farmersmarketbars.com Named for its original Market stall in the middle of Farmers Market, 326 bar has 18 domestic draft beers plus California wines. E.B.’s, on the west patio, features live music and imported beer and wine.
Girasole
225 ½ N. Larchmont Blvd. 323-464-6978 girasolecucina.com Italian cuisine from the Veneto region, this familyrun trattoria features spinach gnocchi, pumpkin ravioli and shrimp linguini. Seasonal pumpkin soup. Reasonably priced. Bring your own wine to have with lunch or dinner.
HMS Bounty
3357 Wilshire Blvd. 213-385-7275 thehmsbounty.com A neighborhood hangout since 1962, the HMS Bounty
232 N. Larchmont Blvd. 323-323-962-9510 louises.com Perfect for business lunches or meeting friends for a meal before continuing on for an evening event, Louise’s has freshly-made pastas, pizzas, soups and salads. Focaccia bread makes the wait for your chicken parmigiana or penne bolognese worthwhile.
Magee’s
M Grill
Tar Pit
127 N. Larchmont Blvd. 323-464-5160 lepetitgreek.com A treat to visit in Larchmont Village, this restaurant features dishes such as flamed cheese with ouzo and lamb shank braised in red wine. If in the mood for comfort food with Mediterranean flare, try the beef stew with roma tomatoes, cinnamon and pearl onions.
6667 Hollywood Blvd. 323-467-7788 mussoandfrankgrill.com A favorite of both locals and tourists, its aura reeks of Hollywood legends. Celebrities still come to enjoy the basic American/Continental menu, while seated in the red-leather booths and banquettes with mahogany room dividers. An institution for more than 90 years, the fourth generation of owners maintains its special ambiance.
Lou on Vine
Off Vine
724 Vine St. 323-962-6369 louonvine.com Featuring 30 wines, this unassuming wine bar also serves a menu that changes on a regular basis. Some of the items have included pig candy, charcuterie and cheese, Alaskan halibut and wild boar sausage with braised fennel.
Quality Food & Beverage
8030 W. 3rd St. 323-658-5959 qualityfoodandbeverage.com Cozy, country feel to the dining rooms adds to the comforting food and pricing at this eatery. Some of the house favorites include mac and cheese with your choice of shrimp or chicken pesto.
Musso & Frank Grill
Le Petit Greek
Papa Cristo’s
2271 W. Pico Blvd. 323-737-2970 papacristos.com The next best thing to a trip to Greece, Papa Cristo’s is a combination restaurant, deli and market. The menu includes traditional items such as the gyro, a lamb beef blend with spices and souvlaki, marinated lamb skewer.
Farmers Market, #624 323-938-4127 mageesnuts.com Magee’s, part of the Farmers Market since it opened in 1934, is famous not only for things like its macadamia butter and pepitas, but also for roast beef and corned beef sandwiches and Mexican entrees.
3832 Wilshire Blvd. 213-389-2770 m-grill.com An authentic Brazilian Churrascaria (steakhouse), it is located on the second floor of the Wiltern Building. The meat is grilled over an open charcoal pit and then carved tableside by the gaucho chefs.
French Crepe Company
Farmers Market Stall 318 323-934-3113 Hollywood & Highland 323-960-0399 frenchcrepe.com Famous for its crepes—order them sweet, savory—for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Try the Crêpe Phillipe, spinach and mushrooms in a Mornay and mushroom sauce. Also on the menu are Belgian waffles, quiche and panini sandwiches.
Louise’s Trattoria
6263 Leland Way 323-962-1900 offvine.com A charming, getaway from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood, Off Vine provides a choice of patio seating, inside dining by the fireplace or banquet facilities for your large parties. Weekend brunches are available.
609 N. La Brea Ave. 323-965-1300 tarpitcocktails.com Cocktail lounge and dinner seating in elegant Art Deco surroundings. An enterprise by Mark Peel, chef at Campanile, signature dishes include duck confit sliders, steak Diane and fried oysters.
Ulysses Voyage
Farmers Market, #750 323-939-9728 ulyssesvoyage.com Authentic Greek cuisine based on Mother Voula’s recipes. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner, dishes include pancakes with fig butter and apple syrup, a lamb shank omelette and grilled Chilean sea bass. Outdoor seating. Full bar and wine from California and Greece.
Village Pizzeria
131 N. Larchmont Blvd. 323-465-5566 6363 Yucca St. 323-790-0763 villagepizzeria.net If you like NY-style pizza, this is the place. Thin crust pizza with no additives plus fresh ingredients and a perfect crust. The marinara sauce was really good and you can fold the slice (like how it’s done in New York). Beer & wine.