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Larchmont Chronicle's
Miracle Mile 2021
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Larchmont Chronicle
34TH ANNUAL EDITION
All aboard! Wilshire / La Brea station dedicated to Councilman LaBonge By Suzan Filipek
Councilman Tom LaBonge’s dream to connect residents and visitors from far and wide on seamless transportation throughout his favorite city is coming closer to a reality. When the Metro “D” (formerly Purple) Line subway station opens at Wilshire / La Brea — scheduled for 2023 — passengers will see signs honoring the former local councilman, also known as “Mr. Los Angeles” and a great guy. The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) board of directors recently voted to dedicate the station in LaBonge’s honor. The former Metro director and Fourth District councilman died on Jan. 7 in his Silver Lake home. He was 67. Signs with LaBonge’s name will be posted in addition to
TOM LaBONGE was an enthusiastic supporter of Los Angeles and the Miracle Mile.
“Wilshire / La Brea” signage, announced Los Angeles Mayor and Metro Board Chair Eric Garcetti. Probably no one was a greater fan of our fair city than LaBonge. “Anyone who knew Tom could tell you one thing about him: he loved every facet of our city — its geography, its diversity, its beauty, its people — and he gave his soul to it,” said Garcetti.
Tom LaBonge Panorama Separately, and the day before the Metro announcement, Mayor Garcetti established “Tom LaBonge Panorama” at the summit of Mount Hollywood overlooking the city, Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park. “[P]erhaps nothing was closer to his heart than Griffith Park, our crown jewel,” said the mayor. “He knew practically every inch of the trails, hikes and hills. He walked through the park daily. And it is only fitting that his name should forever be attached to this extraordinary landmark.” LaBonge Memorial Forest In addition to the underground station and the mountain top, the Los Angeles Parks Foundation has just introduced a new partnership with award-winning Los Angeles (Please turn to page 6)
CHAMBER MEMBERS and guests attended the Zoom program saluting award recipients from LAPD and LAFD.
First Responders honored at annual Trailblazer Luncheon
By Caroline Tracy Members of the Greater Miracle Mile Chamber of Commerce (GMMCC) met on Zoom to honor the recipients of the 2021 Trailblazer Award last month. The award ceremony recognized first responders from the Los Angeles Police Department
(LAPD) and the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). A heavy roster of speakers spoke of the importance of their roles in the Miracle Mile community. The GMMCC’s annual Trailblazer Award recognizes members of the community who exhibit outstanding dedication and service to the residents and businesses of the Miracle Mile. This year, challenges included, but were not limited to: a pandemic, civil unrest and economic fallout. The GMMCC board chose to present the award to first responders. Recipients included: Battalion 18 (Chief Paul Pham and Fire Station crews), Fire Station 61 (captains and crews), Fire Station 68 (captains and crews), and LAPD’s Wilshire Division (captains and crews). Luncheon speaker and city controller Ron Galperin observed: “In the world we live in, true heroes too often go unheralded and unnoticed, which is why honoring their work at the Trailblazer Luncheon is so important. Our city’s first responders, and their families, are the people who sacrifice to keep us safe and secure every single day. They are the working women and men who have been there and will always be there for us, along with the many health care workers, grocery workers, government workers and others who have helped keep Los Angeles running during the pandemic.” Lyn MacEwen Cohen, president, First-In Fire Foundation, said of the responders’ efforts, “This is preparedness from the heart in the heart of Miracle Mile.” GMMCC Executive Director Meg McComb added, “Each year our Chamber recognizes those in our community that have given significant and sustained service to the Miracle Mile. To me, the fire and police departments are not just an obvious choice, they are a long overdue and necessary one. With all manner of civic upheaval in the last year, none are more deserving of our thanks, praise and honor.”
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Development in the Mile is really high — sky high!
By Suzan Filipek The sky’s, well, the limit for four mixed-use projects in various stages of development in the Miracle Mile area. The tallest among them is the Mirabel Residences, 5411 Wilshire Blvd., which will stand a formidable 42 stories. “It’s tall,” admits the developer and owner of the property, Walter Marks III. But, he adds, the 348-unit apartment building with 39 affordable units will be innovative. And, he hopes, something the neighborhood will be proud of. “I have every intention of building something wonderful,” said Marks. The Art Deco-inspired design by architect Richard Keating features a sleek, curvilinear, 530-foot-tall tower, tweaked in its design to avoid shadows on neighboring streets. It’s forward thinking, says Marks, with an automated parking garage for 477 slots and electric charging stations. The sophisticated “WELL” building will offer clean circulated air and water and views. (In addition to air and water, a WELL rating measures noise and light in the built environment’s overall impact on health.) Local retailers will be sought for the 15,000 square foot ground-floor space, Marks said. But last month his plans hit a snag that will push groundbreaking back by more than two years. Marks had been preparing a SCEA (Sustainable Communities Environmental Assessment), but the city is now requiring an Environmental Impact Report. It’s because of the Sontag Drug Building, Marks said. The two-story Sontag building at 5401-5405 Wilshire Blvd., built in 1936, is considered an “excellent example of the Streamline Moderne
MIRABEL features a 42-story apartment tower and close proximity to the future Wilshire / La Brea subway stop.
style,” according to historic consultant Architectural Resources Group. Marks bought the Sontag Building — which has been the home of Wilshire Beauty Supply and other tenants —
two years ago, and he planned to renovate and incorporate it into the Mirabel project. The Cultural Heritage Commission voted last month to consider the proposed Historic-Cultural Monument desig-
Residential
nation sought by the Art Deco Society of Los Angeles. The Commission is scheduled to tour the Sontag building March 24 and make a final determination May 6. If approved, the nomination will go to the City Council Planning and Land Use Management Committee. Marks submitted a letter against the designation, claiming the property is already listed in the California Register as a contributor to the Miracle Mile Historic District, and is protected, whereas this designation will impede moving forward with building “much needed housing, including affordable housing in the project area.” City plans for a subway stop at La Brea Ave. — a mere two blocks “and 650 feet” from his block-sized property — inspired Marks, also the owner of Helms Bakery District in
Culver City, to step up his vision for the Mile. “To me, owning real estate is a privilege and not a right, and if you have property as key as this one, you have an obligation to society,” Marks added. The Mid City West Community Council approved the project in August, but opponents voiced concerns about the building’s height, traffic and parking impacts, and they raised doubts that the tower’s residents would walk to the subway. The Wilshire Courtyard, at 5700 and 5750 Wilshire Blvd., was purchased last year by Canada-based Onni Group, and a major redevelopment project is in the works for the property. Two high-rise office towers — at 35- and 41-stories tall — with connector bridges, terraces and street-level retail, (Please turn to page 4)
W ILSHIRE ESCROW C O M P A N Y
Commercial Loans 1031 Exchanges Bulk Sales Business Opportunities ABC Transfers
MIRACLE MILE 2021
Published by the Larchmont Chronicle 323-462-2241
larchmontchronicle.com
The annual edition is delivered to residents, businesses and employees in the greater Miracle Mile area. It also is delivered to residents in Hancock Park, Windsor Square, Fremont Place, Park LaBrea and Larchmont Village, bringing the total readership to 100,000.
by the Shewfelt Family since 1944 4270 Wilshire Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90010 323.935.3530 www.wilshire-escrow.com
77
YEARS OF
EXCELLENCE
Photo by Henning Witzel on Unsplash
COVER PHOTO of the construction of the Wilshire / La Brea “D” Line subway station, looking east toward the tunnel to Western Ave., is courtesy of Metro.
Owned and operated
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Larchmont Chronicle
34TH ANNUAL EDITION
CIRCA 1936. The Sontag Drug Building on the northwest corner of Wilshire and Cloverdale avenues is being considered for a Historic-Cultural Monument designation. Courtesy of Miraclemilela.com
Development
(Continued from page 3) are envisioned on the northern portion of the site by architect SCB. The new project would triple the current property’s square footage build-out to approximately three million square feet. An Initial Study of the project is under preliminary review by the city Planning Dept. The current six-story, twobuilding office property on almost nine acres was built in 1987 by the late Jerry Snyder and was remodeled recently by previous owner Tishman Speyer.
The new project would retain and renovate the southern portion of the existing buildings. The new project will include 4,650 parking spaces in seven above-grade parking levels. A hotel / residential complex is planned at 629 S. La Brea Ave., just north of the Wilshire / La Brea subway station. The eight-story, 200,000-squarefoot building is a CGI Strategies project, under applicant La Brea Bliss LLC. It includes 121 apartments plus a 125-room hotel designed by Morris Adjmi Architects, partnering with Togawa Smith Martin. Among the one-, two- and
WILSHIRE COURTYARD re-imagined includes two high-rise towers at 35 and 41 stories.
three-bedroom apartment units, 20 percent are affordable units, and there is 13,000 square feet of commercial space planned above a twolevel, 185-car parking garage. Amenities will include a rooftop lounge and pool deck. Because of its affordable housing units and its location within walking distance of a subway station, the developer received an 80-percent density bonus under the city’s transitoriented communities (TOC) program.
The project is expected to open concurrent with the subway station. The project was conditionally approved by the City Planning Dept. Jan. 21. A conditional use permit for alcoholic beverages was also approved in January. The project is pending an appeal filed with the City Planning Commission tentatively set for a hearing April 22. Unite Here Local 11 and Fix the City are among the appellants. The Town & Country on
Third St. at Fairfax Ave. is poised for a major uplift with a new, eight-story mixed-use complex of housing units over retail space, pedestrian-only walkways and bike paths. The 490,682-square-foot Regency Centers development includes 331 studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom units, new commercial space and two levels of subterranean parking. There are 996 car spots with 350 above ground. The project includes (Please turn to page 6)
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34TH ANNUAL EDITION
FOR INQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT COLLIERS AT 818.325.4139
Miracle Mile 2021 5
6 Miracle Mile 2021
HOTEL and residential complex is planned on La Brea Ave., immediately north of the subway station opening in 2023.
(Continued from page 4) a new space added to the existing Whole Foods market
LaBonge
(Continued from page 2) architectural and landscape design firm RIOS to honor the late councilman through the Tom LaBonge Memorial Forest in Griffith Park. RIOS, whose offices were located until recently on Larchmont Boulevard, will design a natural installation near the top of Mt. Hollywood, the recently re-named “Tom LaBonge Panorama.” “We’re happy to be a part of
TOWN & COUNTRY, an eight-story apartment-and-retail development on Third St. near Fairfax Ave., recently released its draft Environmental Impact Report. Comment period ends March 29.
and CVS pharmacy on the western portion of the block, which will remain open during construction. A draft Environmental Im-
pact Report for the project was released Feb. 11. Public comment on the draft EIR will be accepted through March 29 by 4 p.m. Visit plan-
ning4la.org/development-services/eir and enter ENV-20182771-EIR. Community briefing webinars are Thurs., March 4 at 6
p.m. and Sat., March 6 at 10 a.m. Visit townandcountryla. com/resources-contact to RSVP and for more information.
Tom’s legacy,” said Mark Rios, who founded the firm in 1985. Parks Foundation executive director Carolyn Ramsay (Windsor Square) added, “We’re proud and thrilled that our board member Mark Rios and his creative team will design this important project, which is close to all of our hearts.” LaBonge’s widow, Brigid, who has collaborated in designating this memorial to her late husband, said of the forest: “This memorial project will create a living tribute to
Tom and a place of respite for all. I have enjoyed working on the vision for it and look forward to working with RIOS on its realization.” She noted that the “Tom LaBonge Panorama” also recognizes that her husband and his seven brothers grew up in a house on Panorama Terrace in Silver Lake. The forest project is being developed with donations from scores of Angelenos, companies, political leaders and foundations. Ramsay said
she was grateful to the many neighbors in the Wilshire/ Larchmont area who already have supported the Tom LaBonge Memorial Fund for Griffith Park. To contribute, visit: tinyurl.com/54mn6wjp or call 310-488-6158. LaBonge served the Larchmont and Mid-Wilshire areas of Los Angeles through most of his 40-year career at City Hall, 14 years as councilman, and before that, as staffer to the late Council President John Ferraro.
LaBonge Scholarship And, finally (to date!) the Los Feliz Improvement Assoc. has established the Tom LaBonge Leadership Scholarship at John Marshall High School. LaBonge was a member of the Class of 1971 at Marshall, where he was a star football player. At the time of his 2015 retirement from the City Council, his colleagues dedicated the intersection in front of the school, at Tracy and St. George streets, as “Tom LaBonge Square.”
Richard Bloom
Assembly Member, 50th District California State Assembly
Proudly Serving the Miracle Mile Community
District Office (310) 450-0041 Capitol Office (916) 319-2050
Website: http://asmdc.org/members/a50/
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Development
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Larchmont Chronicle
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Construction, public safety are among MMRA’s concerns
By Suzan Filipek As usual, there’s a lot going on in Miracle Mile, though 2021 seems even busier than most years with several major developments underway. Which is why sometimes it’s the simple projects that can help put things in perspective. “I think things like a dog park go a long way to bring neighborhoods together,” said Greg Goldin, president of the Miracle Mile Residential Association (MMRA). According to Goldin, an ideal grassy spot would be in Hancock Park, (parallel to W. Sixth St. along the north side of the La Brea Tar Pits parking lot). The Tar Pits, however, has plans of its own for a major redevelopment of the site by architecture firm Weiss/Manfredi. Down Wilshire Blvd., also on the Mile’s famed Museum Row, the Academy Museum is set to open Sept. 30, 2021 at the corner of Fairfax Avenue. While there is international buzz about the new facility saluting the film capital of the world, with the MMRA there is concern about the movie museum’s parking. Original plans called for the movie museum parking to be at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art’s Spalding Ave. lot, but because of LACMA de-
velopment, that is no longer an option. “We’re concerned with this, because we don’t know how this will work with traffic,” said Goldin. (According to the City Planning Dept., the majority of the Academy Museum’s required parking will still be provided at LACMA’s Pritzker Garage (378 of 466 required spaces), and the Academy proposes to utilize the Petersen Automotive Museum or the 6100 Wilshire Building for the remaining 88 required spaces.) LACMA, for its part, is well underway with its redevelopment plans, which include building the David Geffen Galleries over Wilshire Boulevard. Neighborhood concerns include other developments, as well. Among them is the 42-story Mirabel mixed-use apartment project at Wilshire and Cochran Ave. Goldin praised its design, which includes a sleek tower so as to lessen the impact of shadows on the neighborhood. No question Mile development is intense, “but we’re not in a position to stop this juggernaut. … But we do have the right to raise our concerns,” Goldin said. Which, besides density, includes aesthetics, so that projects conform to the area’s rich
HOW I
Art Deco past, he noted. The MMRA is also determined to keep Wilshire Green Park, a pocket park on Eighth Street between Curson and
CITY
“Block organization is necessary … Moreover, it greatly improves the quality of life for our neighbors who participate in the program,” said Kari Garcia, vice president and chair of the MMRA Safety Committee/ Neighborhood Watch. “Hopefully, most people know that after the expected earthquake we will not have any city services whether it is LAPD or LAFD response for up to 72 hours, if not longer,” Garcia noted. Visit mmrala. com and miraclemilela.com/ safety-committee/ Fifth Avenue of the West Dramatic changes that would earn Wilshire Boulevard the nickname “Fifth Avenue of the West” began in 1920 when A.W. Ross purchased 18 acres along the boulevard, according to the MMRA website.
ACADEMY MUSEUM on Wllshire Boulevard at Fairfax Avenue is set to open Sept. 30, 2021.
CAN
HELP?
MIKE L.A.
PHOTOGRAPH of A. W. Ross, founder of Miracle Mile, from “National Geographic Magazine,” circa 1960. Courtesy of MMRALA.com
Masselin avenues. It’s at the block-square Wilshire Courtyard property, recently bought by Onni Group, which plans to redevelop the north half of the site and build two towers, 35and 41-stories, there. Another property — a cityowned small parking lot south of Wilshire between Cochran and Cloverdale — is being eyed as a homeless housing site. And Olympia Medical Center’s recent announcement to close at the end of this month sparked concern. Goldin hopes a deal can be reached with city leaders to extend the closure through the pandemic. Safety, and more safety Miracle Mile boasts a safety program that includes 29 captains (out of 55 blocks), a disaster preparedness plan and a neighborhood watch.
FEUER ATTORNEY
www.lacityattorney.org @cityattorneyla Paid for by Mike Feuer City Attorney Officeholder ID# 1358890 419 N. Larchmont Blvd., #37 Los Angeles, CA 90004
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Miracle Mile 2021 9
LACMA IS READY TO REOPEN * LACMA meets—and exceeds—the most current health and safety guidelines for museums provided by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and the City of Los Angeles. LACMA is committed to providing a safe environment for all visitors and staff. We will welcome you back as soon as State and County guidelines allow.
These exhibitions await you Installed Now and All New
Still on View
Coming Spring/Summer 2021
Bill Viola: Slowly Turning Narrative
Barbara Kruger: Untitled (Shafted)
Cauleen Smith: Give It Or Leave It
Chris Burden: Metropolis II
Acting Out: Cabinet Cards and the Making of Modern Photography
NOT I: Throwing Voices (1500 BCE–2020 CE)
Do Ho Suh: 348 West 22nd Street
Yoshitomo Nara Vera Lutter: Museum in the Camera View From Here: Recent Acquisitions
Fiji: Art & Life in the Pacific Mark Bradford: 150 Portrait Tone Richard Serra: Band Robert Irwin: Metropolis II
Chinese Contemporary Art from the Yuz Collection In the Now: Gender and Nation in Europe Reinstallation of the Modern Art Collection
Always free for members and L.A. County youth 17 and under *As of February 25, 2021, indoor museums are not allowed to reopen under State of California guidelines. Exterior of BCAM and Resnick Pavilion at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, photo © Museum Associates/LACMA
Los Angeles County Museum of Art 5905 Wilshire Boulevard, near Fairfax LACMA.org | 323 857-6010
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34TH ANNUAL EDITION
LACMA exhibits are ready to open pending government okays
By Suzan Filipek Several new exhibits at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art have not yet been seen by the public, even though the exhibits were installed early last year. They had the misfortune to be readied just before the pandemic shuttered the museum’s doors last spring. LACMA officials are eagerly waiting for the governmental go-aheads to open. (Outdoor exhibits and grounds have been allowed to be open to the public for some time.) And when these shows finally open, things will be a little bit different. We’ll be wearing masks, for one, and socially distancing. One-way paths will be marked through the galleries, and doors are now equipped with touchless sensors. Here’s a look at some of what’s in store on the inside: Japanese contemporary artist Yoshitomo Nara is featured in a retrospective of 100 of his portraits, sculptures and ceramics on an entire floor in the Broad Contemporary Art Museum (BCAM). Doll-like faces gaze out from large canvases, while his phonograph record collection of folk, rock and other album covers fills one entire wall. The artist has drawn much of his inspiration from a passion
100 WORKS by Nara await visitors at a to-be-reopened LACMA.
for music and his childhood memories. It’s the first exhibit to show the influence of music on his art in the United States, and is also is the first international retrospective of the artist. Yoshitomo Nara is through July 5, 2021. A utopian society is created by Los Angeles-based African American artist Cauleen Smith in a series of videos and installations that borrow from the ideals of the Shakers and artists of the Watts Towers and other works. “Cauleen Smith: Give It Or Leave It” is in BCAM through Oct. 3, 2021. Ventriloquists, puppets and sounds and voices in various forms through the centuries are depicted in 200 objects in
GIVE IT OR LEAVE IT installation by Cauleen Smith.
a LACMA-curated show in the Resnick Pavilion. “Beethoven’s Trumpet (With Ear) Opus #131,” by artist John Baldessari plays musical phrases in this work inspired by the composer’s ear trumpet.
RECORD COLLECTION of the artist and “One Foot in the Groove” by Yoshitomo Nara await visitors at LACMA.
“LIBRARY of Unborrowed Books” in “Not I,” at LACMA
Also on display are books never read, from the Los Angeles Public Library in “The Library of Unborrowed Books.” “NOT I: Throwing Voices (1500 BCE - 2020 CE)” is through July 25, 2021. An installation of image and sound by pioneering video art-
ist Bill Viola features two projections on a large rotating screen of images showing the fullness of the human condition, in the Resnick Pavilion. “Bill Viola: Slowly Turning Narrative: is through June 27, 2021. (Please turn to page 14)
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Miracle Mile 2021 11
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12 Miracle Mile 2021
Following is a list of elected officials who serve the Miracle Mile and surrounding areas. Sen. Dianne Feinstein 11111 Santa Monica Blvd., Ste. 915, 90025 310-914-7300 feinstein.senate.gov
Larchmont Chronicle
34TH ANNUAL EDITION
Directory of Elected Officials
Sen. Alex Padilla 11845 W. Olympic Blvd., Ste. 1250W, 90064 202-224-3553 padilla.senate.gov Rep. Adam Schiff 28th District 5500 Hollywood Blvd.,
Ste. 416, 90028 323-315-5555 schiff.house.gov
Rep. Ted Lieu 33rd District 1645 Corinth Ave., Ste. 101, 90025 323-651-1040
lieu.house.gov
a50.asmdc.org
Rep. Jimmy Gomez 34th District 350 S. Bixel St., Ste. 120, 90017 213-481-1425 gomez.house.gov
Assemblymember Miguel Santiago 53rd District 320 W. 4th St., Ste. 1050, 90013 213-620-4646 a53.asmdc.org
Rep. Karen Bass 37th District 4929 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 650, 90010 323-965-1422 bass.house.gov Gov. Gavin Newsom 1303 10th St., Ste. 1173, Sacramento 95814 916-445-2841
gov.ca.gov
State Sen. María Elena Durazo 24th District 1808 W. Sunset Blvd., 90026 213-483-9300 sd24.senate.ca.gov State Sen. Ben Allen 26th District 2512 Artesia Blvd., Ste. 320, Redondo Beach 90278 310-318-6994 sd26.senate.ca.gov Assemblymember Richard Bloom 50th District 2800 28th St., Ste. 105, Santa Monica 90405 310-450-0041
County Supervisor Holly Mitchell 2nd District 500 W. Temple St., Ste. 866, 90012 213-974-2222 mitchell.lacounty.gov County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl 3rd District 500 W. Temple St., Ste. 821, 90012 213-974-3333 supervisorkuehl.com Councilmember Nithya Raman 4th District 200 N. Spring St., Rm. 415 Los Angeles 90012 213-473-7004 councildistrict4.lacity.org Councilmember Paul Koretz 5th District 200 N. Spring St., Rm. 440, 90012 213-473-7005 councilmemberpaulkoretz. com
NEIGHBORHOOD RETAIL on Fairfax Avenue is the new setting for the Larchmont Barber Shop — originally “on the Boulevard” since the 1920s.
Barber takes Larchmont to Fairfax Avenue
By John Welborne You can take the barber out of Larchmont, but you can’t take the soul of Larchmont out of his shop. Construction on his Larchmont building (he was one of the 14 shops in the former Lipson Building, now behind a construction wall) and high rents elsewhere on the street (despite the nearly 30 vacancies) forced owner Jorge Hilario to close up the 90-plus years Larchmont business in December. But the Larchmont Barber Shop lives on — now nearer to the Miracle Mile than Larchmont, but still close by — at 401 1/2 S. Fairfax Ave. (near
the corner of Fourth Street). Hilario took over the Larchmont shop in 2013, following the death of former owner Jerry Cottone, who had taken over the shop from his (Please turn to page 13)
LARCHMONT BARBER Shop found a new home on Fairfax.
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Area favorite: Toy Hall reopens as Miracle Mile Toys and Gifts
By Rachel Olivier Miracle Mile Toys and Gifts, 5464 Wilshire Blvd., formerly Miracle Mile Toy Hall, is not going anywhere, says new owner Christina Mullin. Known as a favorite toy store for many families in the Miracle Mile area, both Mullin and Carrie Harr, former owner of Miracle Mile Toy Hall, were quick to assure that the store will remain a fixture of the community. At the moment, the store is open with limited capacity, and also offers curbside, online and on-demand and byappointment service. Mullin, the store’s manager for many years, has watched many of the kids grow up as they visited the store. She says that much about the store remains the same — classic, interactive and non-electronic toys and gifts that have made it a popular toy store since it was opened by the first owner, Christine Johnson, in 2013.
Some of the changes will include adding some homewares eventually, and no longer renting the event space (the pandemic having made it difficult to hold events or parties, especially indoors). However, Mullin says, she hopes to revisit renting that space again in the future when the coronavirus is under control. Harr, who became partners with original owner Johnson in 2018, will be starting her own online toy and gift store, Cuckoo Clock Toys and Gifts. A good fit Mullin has been the only employee since the pandemic hit, and she often gets calls from customers who have dropped by while she was at home. Her short commute — she lives across the street — makes it easier for her to help her customers, even while she’s helping her own kids with their schooling and projects. Mullin moved to Los Angeles
from New York about 15 years ago, initially to get into casting. She worked in retail since she was 14 years old, as well as in consumer behavioral research. After having a child, and then deciding to go back to work, the nearby Miracle Mile Toys seemed like a good fit. Since then, with help from her husband and other family members, the store has become very much a family affair. As an example of that, to source some of the funds needed to get the toy store up and running after the shutdowns and the purchase, Mullin set up a GoFundMe page, which reached its initial goal in three days based on donations from customers, friends and family. Mullin says she looks forward to continuing to veer kids away from looking at screens and towards being more creative. Visit her new website at: miraclemiletoysandgifts.com.
MIRACLE MILE Toys and Gifts is open and ready for business.
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THEN: Larchmont Chronicle publisher John Welborne photographed with William LaBombard, both getting Saturday morning trims at the original shop on Larchmont in 2017.
Barber shop
(Continued from page 12) father, Vince. The Cottones ran the shop for close to 60 years.
NOW: Owner Jorge Hilario and barber Cesar Vasquez give trims in the new Larchmont Barber Shop — with many artifacts from Larchmont, but now on Fairfax Avenue — in 2021.
According to Hilario, he has been very much back in business since last month, although there may be a little fine-tuning still to come with the interior
decorating. But, during a visit there on a recent Saturday morning, the space certainly had the feel of a traditional neighborhood barber shop.
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14 Miracle Mile 2021
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
Cathedral Chapel School 755 S. Cochran Ave. Ph: 323-938-9976 Principal: Tina Kipp Grades: K to 8 cathedralchapelschool.org
Larchmont Chronicle
34TH ANNUAL EDITION
Miracle Mile School Directory
Hancock Park Elementary 408 S. Fairfax Ave. Ph: 323-935-5272 Principal: Ashley Parker Grades: TK to 5 hancockparkschool.com
♥
Wilshire Crest Elementary 5241 W. Olympic Blvd. Ph: 323-938-5291 Principal: Gayle Robinson Grades: PK to 5 wce-lausd-ca.schoolloop.com
Third St. Elementary 201 S. June St. Ph: 323-939-8337 Principal: Daniel Kim Grades: PK to 5 thirdstreetschool.com
90 Y OF M EARS IRAC IN TH LE M E ILE!
MIDDLE SCHOOLS Fusion Miracle Mile 5757 Wilshire Blvd. Promenade One Ph: 323-692-0603 Principal: Katheryn Nguyen Grades: 6 to 12 fusionacademy.com John Burroughs 600 S. McCadden Pl. Ph: 323-549-5000 Principal: Steve Martinez Grades: 6 to 8 burroughsms.org
Cathedral Chapel School
Archdiocesan & State Academic Decathlon Champions 2017!
• Kindergarten through 8th grade • Fully Accredited WASC & WCEA • Schoolwide 4G Internet Access • 36 MAC Computer Lab • Spanish Program • K-8 iPad Program • Departmentalized Junior High • Art & Music Program • Honors Math Program
Yavneh Hebrew Academy 5353 W. 3rd St. Ph: 323-931-5808 Principal: Eileen Wasserman Grades: K to 8 yha.org
• CYO Sports • Choice Lunch Program • Outreach Concern Counseling • Extended Day Care • Junior High Academic Decathlon
New Los Angeles Charter 1919 S. Burnside Ave. Ph: 323-939-6400 Principal: Gabrielle Brayton Grades: 6 to 8 newlamiddle.org
AFTER SCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS • Young Ninjas USA-Enrichment Classes • Fit & Fun Gymnastics
HIGH SCHOOLS
Girls Academic Leadership Academy (GALA) 1067 West Blvd. Ph: 323-900-4532 Principal: Elizabeth Hicks Grades: 6 to 12 galacademy.org Fairfax High, Visual Arts Magnet, Police Academy Magnet 7850 Melrose Ave. Ph: 323-370-1200 Principal: Lorraine Trollinger Grades: 9 to 12 fairfaxhs.org Los Angeles High, STEAM Magnet 4650 W. Olympic Blvd. Ph: 323-900-2700 Principal: Marguerette Gladden Grades: 9 to 12 lahigh.org Shalhevet School 910 S. Fairfax Ave. Ph: 323-930-9333 Principal: Daniel Weslow Grades: 9 to 12 shalhevet.org
Please call the school office.
Applications available online at cathedralchapelschool.org or in our school office.
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K - 8th Grade Testing by appointment
755 South Cochran Ave., L.A. 90036 For Information (323) 938-9976 or cathedralchapelschool.org
RODIN GARDEN, I at LACMA uses camera obscura techniques. Vera Lutter, photo courtesy of the artist
Museums
(Continued from page 10) Using her camera obscura technique, New York-based artist Vera Lutter’s 44 works in the Resnick Pavilion were made when she was in residence, and they chronicle works from LACMA’s collection as well as its now demolished eastern campus. Vera Lutter: Museum in the Camera through Sept. 12, 2021. A selection of 16 newly acquired works include works by Calida Rawles and Christina Fernandez. In the Resnick Pavilion. “View From Here: Recent Acquisitions” is ongoing. While LACMA waits to reopen, there is lots to do online: “Reading Ventriloquist Scripts,” the first in a series of five readings, is Thurs., March 4 at 4 p.m. Free. “In Response — Perspec-
TOUCHLESS SENSOR for opening LACMA doors.
tives on Vera Lutter: Museum in the Camera” is Tues., March 23 at 4 p.m. Free. Conversation series with LACMA this month include: “Art Moves: Not I Throwing Voices (1500 BCE - 2020 CE) Yoga” is Sat., March 6 from 10 to 11 a.m. Members $5; general public $8. RSVP required. “The Moth Virtual StorySLAM: Nostalgia-Yoshitomo Nara” is Fri., March 12 at 7:30 p.m. Member $5; general $8. Visit LACMA.org for more information.
Larchmont Chronicle
34TH ANNUAL EDITION
Miracle Mile 2021 15
Larchmont Village
ALL AGES. ALL LEVELS. 7 DAYS A WEEK. Call or text now and start making music with us! 323-522-4888 • rhodesschoolofmusic.com 215 N. Larchmont Blvd. Unit C • Los Angeles, CA • 90004
16 Miracle Mile 2021
The following list of apartment buildings covers a major portion of the community. All are ZIP Code 90036 unless otherwise noted. If you have additions or corrections, please write to: info@larchmontchronicle.com.
Larchmont Chronicle
34TH ANNUAL EDITION
Miracle Mile Apartments
Avalon Wilshire 5115 Wilshire Blvd. 323-894-9430 avaloncommunities.com
Boulevard on Wilshire 5353 Wilshire Blvd. 866-380-1996 liveboulevard.com
Babylon Apartments 360 S. Detroit St. 323-930-2213 hpgmanagement.com
Brighton Villas 318 S. Detroit St. 323-930-2213 hpgmanagement.com
The Sycamore District is proud to support its local restaurants and essential food workers.
Broadcast Center Apartments 7660 Beverly Blvd. 424-523-5999 broadcastcenterapts.com
Oakwood Miracle Mile 5659 W. 8th St. 323-931-5659 oakwood.com
Burnside Residences 600 S. Burnside Ave. 323-497-4803 burnside-living.com
Palazzo East 348 S. Hauser Blvd. 424-532-8801 palazzo-east.com
Burnside Villas 649 S. Burnside Ave. 323-940-5443 liveatburnsidelofts.com
Palazzo West 6220 W. 3rd St. 424-532-9123 palazzo-west.com
Carthay Circle Apts. 6209-6225 Olympic Blvd., 90048 323-936-3793
Palm Court Apts. 740 S. Burnside Ave. 323-930-2564 harrison-properties.net
Cloverdale Apartments 600 S. Cloverdale Ave. 323-965-1565
Park La Brea 6200 W. 3rd St. 323-549-5400 parklabrea.com
Cloverdale Properties, LLC 660 S. Cloverdale Ave. 310-413-0209 cloverdale.optimuspropertiesllc.com
Enjoy beautiful sidewalk dining options or takeaway.
Cloverdale Towers 340 S. Cloverdale Ave. 323-936-0322 cloverdaletowers.bhprop.com Cochran Apartments 657–665 S. Cochran Ave. derekcusack.com/coc Cochran Avenue Apartments 442 S. Cochran Ave. 310-642-6556 cochranavenue.com Cochran Island Apartments 342 S. Cochran Ave. 323-932-0450 Cochran House 740 S. Cochran Ave. 310-729-0200 Curson Apartments 315-323 N. Curson Ave. 323-289-2374 cursonapts.com The Desmond 5520 Wilshire Blvd. 310-602-4202 livedesmond.com Essex at Miracle Mile 400 S. Detroit St. 323-342-5520 essexapartmenthomes.com Hauser Apartments 625 Hauser Blvd. 323-937-0930 hpgmanagement.com
Located on Sycamore Ave – just east of La Brea Ave & south of Santa Monica Blvd
Linda Manor Apartments 456 S. Cochran Ave. 310-710-9361
BARBER SHOP NEW LOCATION
Same telephone number! Come see us at our new shop at
©LC03 21
(323) 464-6659
Masselin Park West 5700 6th St. 323-617-4856 masselinparkwestapts.com Micropolitan at Urban Lights 739 S. Ogden Dr. 323-319-5844
401 1/2 S. FAIRFAX AVE., 90036. For appointments until 4 p.m., call
The Mansfield 5100 Wilshire Blvd. 323-634-0290 themansfieldapartments.com
Museum Terrace 600 S. Curson Ave. 323-745-1251 museumterraceapts.com
The Preston 630 S. Masselin Ave. 323-965-1253 theprestonapts.com Redwood Urban 345 S. Cloverdale Ave. 435 S. Detroit St. 630 Hauser Blvd. 323-938-5653 redwoodurban.com Ridgeley Apartments 756 S. Ridgeley Dr. 323-524-0553 ridgeleyapts.com Tiffany Court 616 Masselin Ave. 323-342-5516 essexapartmenthomes.com The Warwick 109 N. Sycamore Ave. No phone number available. Wilshire Embassy Apts. 5805 W. 8th St. 323-933-6020 Wilshire La Brea 5200 Wilshire Blvd. 323-342-5515 essexapartmenthomes.com Wilshire West Properties, LLC 649 S. Ridgeley Dr. 323-784-0567 x80 162/164 N. Detroit St. No phone number available. detroitla.com 328 S. Cloverdale Ave. 323-936-5071 rentcwp.com 616 S. Burnside Ave. 323-937-4359 hpgmanagement.com 632 S. Cloverdale Ave. No phone number available. 5550 Wilshire Blvd. 844-486-2213 5550wilshire.com 5600 Wilshire Blvd. 323-342-5522 essexapartmenthomes.com 5778 W. Olympic Blvd. No phone number available. 5880-5882 W. 8th St. 310-425-9070 6300 W. Olympic Blvd., 90048 No phone number available. 6526 W. Olympic Blvd., 90048 No phone number available.
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34TH ANNUAL EDITION
Spring comes to Farmers Market with fresh produce, menu ideas By Rachel Olivier Spring has sprung, and with it the lifting of some health guideline restrictions. People are bursting to take advantage of outdoor shopping and dining in the fine weather, especially at the Original Farmers Market, 6333 W. Third St. When we asked Ilysha Buss, director of marketing at Farmers Market, how the Market was doing, she said that while it was at limited
capacity because of the health department guidelines, there also has been a bustling feel to the market — upbeat and vigorous — a sign of spring and hope renewed. Rick’s Produce New at the market is Rick’s Produce. Opened last month across from Marconda’s Puritan Poultry and T&Y Bakery, the produce stand sells eggs, strawberries, avocados and a variety of citrus and vegeta-
Sidecar pulls up at Third and Fairfax
There is a new tenant next to the Trader Joe’s across from the Original Farmers Market. Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee opened its fifth Southern California location last month. Established in 2012, the shop has developed a devoted following for handcrafted doughnuts, “made fresh daily, from scratch, using the finest ingredients available” according to the owners. Their doughnuts are fried in small batches every hour, ensuring that each customer receives a fresh, warm doughnut. Their flavors include Huckleberry, Butter & Salt, and Maple Bacon, and they also offer a rotating monthly menu of seasonal flavors. Stan Savage, executive vice president of landlord A. F. Gilm-
FLAVORS that can fill a sixdoughnut box include maple bacon, vegan chocolate truffle, huckleberry and more.
ore Company, says, “They are a terrific addition to the offerings at Gilmore Station and we know they’ll be warmly received by the local community and visitors seeking a delicious treat and a great cup of coffee.” In addition to Trader Joe’s, the two other tenants are Mendocino Farms and Paper Source.
bles, as well as handmade salsas, guacamole, juices, jams, smoothies and sandwiches. Owner Rick Dominguez brings his sustainably grown produce from his farm in Fallbrook, as well as from other family farms in the area. He began his business by selling avocados at local weekly farmers’ markets, and then expanded his produce selection. In 2014, he purchased his own farmland. Currently, he operates a small location in Silver Lake, but the stand at the Original Farmers Market has become his flagship store. Home cooking videos For customers who want to take a little bit of Farmers Market home with them, the Market also has recipes for several menu favorites on “Market Buzz.” The blog highlights dishes made by several Farmers Market vendors. Videos posted include instructions on how to
PERSIMMONS, lemons, limes and other in-season fruits and vegetables are available at Rick’s Produce.
make: Roxy & Jo’s lobster roll with French fries, Phil’s Deli’s pastrami and Swiss omelette, Singapore Banana Leaf’s mee goring, Patsy D’Amore’s “Pat-
sy’s Special” pizza and the French Crepe Company’s La Normandie crepe. The recipes can be found at farmersmarketla.com/market-buzz.
Solid Partners … preparing for the future.
AT NEW SIDECAR Doughnuts & Coffee location at Gilmore Station (next to Trader Joe’s and across from the Original Farmers Market), new batches are made every hour.
Always at the Ready.
In Miracle Mile
Imagination in the Spirit of Cooperation for the Love of Miracle Mile
Exquisite Floral Arrangements & Plants for Every Occasion!
5310 West 8th Street www.urbanflorist.net
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323-937-7100
(323) 933-8164
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(310) 204-1865
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Larchmont Chronicle
34TH ANNUAL EDITION
All Season Brewing Co. replaces all season tires All Season Brewing Company is open for business at the former Firestone Tire and Rubber Co. building at 800 S. La Brea Ave. While the company brews 15 beers onsite, it also offers classic and draft cocktails, wine and house-made ginger beer. Food is provided by Chica’s Tacos with choices that range from slow-braised steak tacos to plant-based nachos and chipotle barbecue chicken pizza. The blurred indoor-outdoor space complements current health department protocols for outside dining. Besides the mask-wearing requirement, tables are set eight feet apart, and no groups larger than six people are allowed to sit together. Hours are Sunday to Thursday, 3 to 10 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays, 3 p.m. to midnight, with the facility becoming ages 21 and over after 8:30 p.m. every night. The historic Machine Age Streamline Moderne design of the building was considered ultra modern when Firestone built it in 1938 to sell tires, and it now is a City of Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument. For more information, visit allseasonbrewing.com, or follow it on Instagram or Facebook.
HISTORIC FIRESTONE Tire and Rubber Co. on La Brea Ave. is now the site of the All Season Brewing Company.
Children can play, swim, make art at Park La Brea
By Jane Gilman It’s not unusual to see moms pushing strollers in Park La Brea as families take their young children on walks along the lushly planted landscape. The younger set has many ways to enjoy living at Park La Brea, the 4422-unit apartment village in Miracle Mile. Destinations of those strolls might be the large Alandele Circle where replicas of dinosaurs make great climbing fun, or it might be the Halloween extravaganza at the
Together, Let’s Save
Save Energy. Save Water. Repeat. As you’re staying safe at home, we have lots of ways to help you stay comfortable and save on your electricity and water costs. ladwp.com/save. Save Energy Generous rebates and instant savings on smart thermostats, advanced power strips, window A/C’s and more! Set thermostat at 78°. Close blinds or curtains. Run major appliances at night.
Save Water Free showerheads and faucet aerators, and cash back on water-saving devices and appliances. Take 5 minute showers. Run full loads of laundry. Check and fix leaks.
Need help paying your bill?
Visit LADWP.com/financialassistance or call 1-800-DIAL-DWP.
equally large Burnside Circle with rides, pumpkin decorating and a costume parade. If it’s a Saturday afternoon, there is likely to be a G-rated movie showing at the theater at the centrally located Activities Center. At one of the two swimming pools, some children are getting their first aquatic lessons. In the Activity Center’s main room, there is space for more programs for boys and girls to participate in after school and weekends. One of these is “Debi’s Doodles,” a twice-
monthly program where boys and girls participate in arts and crafts projects. The program is run by Deborah Gillman, coordinator of the Activities Center. She leads the children in projects such as decorating backpacks, making masks and painting. The artwork is on exhibit at the Center every November, and the children’s recycling efforts are displayed on Earth Day. “We love ‘Debi Doodles’ classes,” said one mother. “Our children meet their neighbors and make new friends.”
CHILDREN’S CREATIVITY flourishes at “Debi Doodles” classes at Park La Brea.
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Larchmont Chronicle
34TH ANNUAL EDITION
First foray back to in-person dining yields dreamy results It’s not often that I wake up thinking about a meal from the night before, but my first foray back to in-person dining since last March yielded such deliciousness that every tasty morsel lingered in my mind well into the next morning. I was nervous about venturing into the eating world again, albeit outside with socially distanced tables. My husband and I made an especially early dinner reservation in the hopes that we would beat the rush. We masked up, tucked hand sanitizer into my purse and drove to one of our favorite places, Angelini Osteria. We were offered a choice of tables along the sidewalk or on the courtyard patio. Although there were ample heaters, it was a chilly and breezy evening so we opted for the more protected patio. There was a plastic canopy installed above us, probably due to the recent rains, so we worried briefly that we were perilously close to an indoor dining model not yet approved, but our early hour, mid-week strategy rewarded us with a nearly empty space for the first half of our meal. Once seated we were told to read the rules about always wearing a mask when
On the Menu by
Helene Seifer approached by waitstaff and limiting the meal to 90 minutes, then pointed toward the QR code displayed on our table. When our phone camera focused on the little square code a menu opened, eliminating the need for touching paper. We felt completely safe. We recently had food delivered from Angelini Osteria and especially enjoyed their delicate green lasagna, but takeout just isn’t the same as an in-situ experience, no matter how great the restaurant. To savor our night out, we lingered over $13 glasses of Sicilian red while heaping spoonfuls of an amuse-bouche of peas, peppers, and parsley onto savory crispy flat bread triangles while pondering our eating options. We usually share everything for double the tastes, and this night was no exception. We ordered the refreshing thin-sliced red beet, burrata,
From Breakfast
walnut and arugula salad, $18. Anything with beets and burrata automatically calls to me, and this combination, with the peppery greens, sweet, creamy cheese, earthy nuts and beets in a simple citrus dressing, was a perfect starter and a great lead-in to our pasta and main. After so many months at home, we rewarded ourselves with an indulgently rich and pricey pasta, the $55 house made spaghetti chitarra. Thick chewy pasta strands are made by pushing dough through wires strung on a special cutting box, much like a guitar (“chitarra” means guitar in Italian). Tossed with crumbled sausage and grated parmesan and showered in shaved black truffles, the spaghetti was worth every penny. I was instantly transported to two years ago, when I went on a truffle hunt in Tuscany followed by a three-course meal prepared by the third-generation truffle hunter’s sister. This pasta was even better than the one served at the source. Is there anything more glorious than the perfume of a truffle? Its heady nose, the way it turns any food it touches into heaven-on-a-plate? This might have to join my list of
… to Lunch
must-have dishes. Salt-crusted branzino is one of the mains I’ve always loved at the osteria, but this time we tried halibut with sauteed spinach, $40. The meaty fish was bathed in a light sauce of chopped tomatoes and minced onions and chives. Its fresh and delicate taste balanced the earthy pasta. We left before having dessert and coffee since, by that time, the patio and sidewalk were completely filled with chatting
diners, and it seemed a good time to seek the more-open space provided by a brisk short walk to our car. I had wondered if I could be comfortable going back to the old ways once the scientists tell us all is well. Judging by the experience of dipping my toe into the outdoor dining scene, the answer is “Yes! Resoundingly, yes!” That day can’t come soon enough. Angelini Osteria, 7313 Beverly Blvd., 323-297-0070.
El Coyote celebrates 90 years
By Rachel Olivier Celebrate El Coyote Mexican Café’s 90th anniversary with a shredded beef or shredded chicken taco with rice and beans, or a cheese enchilada — for 90 cents — on Fri., March 5 from noon to 9 p.m. Limit is one special per person for dine-in only at 7312 Beverly Blvd. Continue the celebration throughout the weekend and partake of the El Coyote pizza — for 90 cents, one pizza per dine-in only — Sat., March 6 and Sun., March 7, noon to 9 p.m. El Coyote, first opened by George and Blanche March in 1931 on First Street and La Brea Avenue, is a Los Angeles
landmark, known for the colorful décor, Hollywood charm, brightly costumed servers and margaritas. A family operation, Blanche March left El Coyote to her brother and his wife, parents of the current owners, sisters Margie and Barbara. Margie’s son and his wife, Wayne and Rose Christoffersen, help run the day-to-day operation. El Coyote is open for takeout and outdoor dining Wednesday to Sunday, noon to 9 p.m. While reservations are not taken, the café uses Yelp Waitlist to track parties waiting for a table. Visit elcoyotecafe.com or follow the restaurant on Instagram (@elcoyotecafe) and Facebook (@ElCoyoteLA).
… to Dinner
… Fresh Ingredients is the Key! YOU CAN COUNT ON DU-PAR’S TO TREAT YOU WELL!
Take our bakery goods home to enjoy! In the Original Farmers Market Open Sunday-Thursday 7 am - 6 pm, Friday & Saturday 7 am - 7:30 pm
3rd and Fairfax •
(323) 933-8446
Larchmont Chronicle
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Miracle Mile 2021 21
Thank You,
Larchmont Neighbors For Supporting Our Family-Owned Businesses.
The Chang Family
The Jadidy Family
The Puente Family
The Thompson Family
Bryan’s Pit Barbecue
By Candlelight
Farm Fresh Produce
The Kipper Family
Kip’s Toyland
The Min Family
Light mY Fire
Littlejohn’s English Toffee House
The Wood Family
The DeRosa Family
The Zou Family
The Brelaz & Carvalho Family
Roxy & Jo’s Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar
Marconda’s Meats
The Brown Family
The Salad Bar
The Weiss Family
WEiss Jewelry
The Graves Family
Peking Kitchen
Phil’s Deli & Grill
The Gazal Family
The Coffey Family
Singapore’s Banana Leaf
Sporte Fashion
Local Ice
The Strouk Family
The Kraft Family
Sticker PLanet
•
6333 W. THIRD ST. LOS ANGELES 323.933.9211 FARMERSMARKETLA.COM @ FARMERSMARKETLA
•
The Gumbo Pot
The Kashi Family
Zia Valentina
22 Miracle Mile 2021
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Toast St. Patrick’s Day at Bergin’s, Cat & Fiddle, Farmers Market
By Rachel Olivier Tom Bergin’s is back and open for business! With a tent ready to welcome patrons to enjoy an outdoor, socially distant pint in the 8,000-square foot parking lot, the public house at 840 S. Fairfax Ave. is ready just in time for St.
Patrick’s Day. Protocols are in place per health department guidelines, says David Castagnetti who operates Bergin’s with brother Fran Castagnetti. Last year, just as St. Patrick’s Day arrived, Bergin’s and other restaurants and bars across the city ended up sitting out
one of the most profitable days of the year because of the coronavirus, he said. Since then, places such as Tom Bergin’s, Cat and Fiddle and Market Tavern at the Farmers Market have had to perform a complicated dance between complete shutdowns,
Dine al fresco on our outdoor patios!
Enjoy brunch, lunch and dinner daily. Call us or find us on Bentobox, Caviar, Doordash, Grubhub, Postmates and UberEats.
Mention this ad for a special treat!
7313 – 7317 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles,|90036 | 323.297.0070 7313-7321 Beverly Blvd 323.297.0070 www.angelinirestaurantgroup.com www.angelinirestaurantgroup.com
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Daily takeout available 11am - 8pm
Open for Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner – Catering
Thanks, L.A., for 90 Terrific Years!
partial closures and cautious re-openings, and back again. Some local bars, such as Little Bar or Molly Malone’s, have shut down completely, and they are waiting until inside service can begin again. However, Bergin’s has combined takeout and delivery with outdoor dining (when an option), to keep the historic pub available to the public. “We’re not going anywhere. We’re in this for the long haul,” says Castagnetti, who adds that he and his brother Fran see Bergin’s as a vital part of the community. He says he views his brother and himself as “custodians” of the public house, and that it truly is a “public” house where people come to share good times and bad. While this year may see a more subdued St. Patrick’s Day celebration, with reservations required and only limited space for patrons, Castagnetti says he takes the long view. He prefers to be cautious now so that by next year, or so, patrons can come back to enjoy Tom Bergin’s the way it’s supposed to be enjoyed. Keep up with news about Bergin’s via Instagram, @ TomBergins1936. You can view their takeout menu options at tombergins.com. Cat and Fiddle Other restaurants and pubs are also offering cautious ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. The Cat and Fiddle Pub and Restaurant at 742 N. Highland Ave. is planning on “corned beef and cabbage and Guinness for sure,” says Ashlee Gardner, who helps with the marketing and accounting side of “The Cat.” This is on top of the other British dishes offered at the pub. While there is a patio for outside dining, it will be by reservation only to ensure social distancing. And customers are required to wear masks when not eating or drinking. Takeaway, curbside and delivery options are also available. Visit thecatandfiddle.com. Farmers Market At the Original Farmers Market, 6333 W. Third St.,
TOM BERGIN’S Public House is open for business.
OUTDOOR SEATING and other protocols have been set up at Bergin’s in preparation of welcoming customers.
Market Tavern serves contemporary British fare on the patio, and it will be open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. for those who want to raise a pint on St. Patrick’s Day. Wear a mask, and prepare for your temperature to be taken upon entering. Delivery and takeout options are also available. Visit markettavernla.com. Magee’s Kitchen will be serving up its traditional corned beef, parsley potato and cabbage special all day long. If cooking at home, Huntington Meats and Marconda’s have pre-brined corned beef. Pick up fresh cabbage, carrots and potatoes at Rick’s, Farm Boy or Farm Fresh produce markets. Visit farmersmarketla.com. Sláinte!
Celebrate Our 90th Anniversary
on March 5th
with 90¢ Special Dishes!
www.elcoyotecafe.com 7312 Beverly Blvd. 323-939-2255
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Follow Us On CORNED BEEF, potatoes and cabbage will be offered by Magee’s at the Original Farmers Market on St. Patrick’s Day.
Larchmont Chronicle
Miracle Mile 2021 23
34TH ANNUAL EDITION
An 81-year Miracle on La Brea salutes its great neighbor, Wilshire Boulevard’s
Miracle Mile
PINK’S – The Little Hot Dog Stand That Could!
We serve more than 40 varieties of delicious, mouth-watering Hot Dogs and more than 12 varieties of colossal Hamburgers … be sure to try our awesome Fries & Onion Rings
Dine in our Patio or Take it to go — We are practicing all the proper protocols! Sun – Thurs 9:30 am – 10 pm • Fri & Sat Until Midnight At "Pink's Square" — the corner of La Brea & Melrose Visit us at: WWW.PINKSHOLLYWOOD.COM
The Pink Family
@theofficialpinkshotdogs
@pinkshotdogs
#pinkshotdogs
@ pinkshotdogs
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Follow us!
24 Miracle Mile 2021
34TH ANNUAL EDITION
Larchmont Chronicle
At Wilshire & Fairfax