THE FOOD & DRINK ISSUE!
FEATURING ALEX HYMAN OF CHX SANDWICHES
PLUS ORGANIC OREN ARRIVES IN BRENTWOOD, THE FRESHEST LOCAL FISH, THATCHER'S WINE AND MORE
September 25 - 28
Barker Hangar in Santa Monica
Artwork by Nadia Attura
Presented by
Cheers to One Year
It’s October, which means that it has officially been one year since we launched Brentwood City Lifestyle. When I set out to create this magazine, I was excited at the opportunity to draw on my longtime editorial experience to bring an elevated and highly curated community-driven publication to our beloved neighborhood. A magazine that would arrive in mailboxes monthly, filled cover to cover with hyper-local content that readers could literally step outside their front doors and use. Of course, I never could have imagined how much our community was about to change.
Three months after we launched, the fires hit, and I truly wasn’t sure what would happen. I put together most of the March issue—which was dedicated to the Palisades and featured a cover image of the Brentwood Country Mart underneath a dark cloud of smoke—while I was still under mandatory evacuation myself. And although this past year will always go down as one of the darkest moments in LA’s history, I have been so moved by the strength and resilience of all of our neighbors and the way we have come together to help our friends in the Palisades. If there is one thing we have learned through this horrible experience, it is that community cannot be taken for granted and should always be celebrated—and I have felt extremely humbled to have this magazine as a platform to help tell people’s stories and support all of the local businesses that make our hometown so special.
And still, amidst these struggles, Brentwood’s restaurant scene has persevered. Over the last year, we have welcomed some incredible culinary destinations, from Ospi’s pitch-perfect pizzas to Matū’s mouthwatering steaks to Great White’s laidback Aussie-cool vibe. For our official Food & Drink issue, I’m thrilled to feature Alex Hyman, the 20-year-old founder of CHX Sandwiches, on our cover. Hyman is a true local—he grew up in Westwood and Brentwood, his dad is a teacher at Paul Revere and he graduated from Crossroads School. Somehow, while studying hospitality at Cornell University, he managed to master the art of the perfect fried chicken and launched his successful food truck while on summer break. Although Hyman is back at school for the fall season, his truck is still going strong—found most days on San Vicente right outside of CVS. I encourage all of you to check it out.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire Brentwood community for embracing this magazine in our first year—and of course to our incredible advertising partners who made it all possible. Cheers to many, many more.
AMANDA EBERSTEIN, PUBLISHER
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Amanda Eberstein | amanda.eberstein@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Laura SanchezQuan
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Samantha Brooks, Carole Dixon
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Trish Alison, Darren Bates, Miles Diggs, Asia Dobrowner, Tim Regas, SkyQuajus Turner
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
LOS ANGELES
city scene
1: Chrissy Teigen celebrated the launch of her new Cravings by Chrissy Teigen pasta sauces with her husband, singer John Legend, and their children.
2: The private dinner was held on the back patio of Jon & Vinny’s Brentwood. 3: Producer Jamie Rabineau, photographer Mike Rosenthal and real estate agent Mica Rabineau. 4: Helen Johannesen of Helen’s Wines with Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo of Jon & Vinny’s. 5: Chef Alix Traeger and Ellen Marie Bennett of Hedley & Bennett. 6: Chef Zoya Biglary and Shirene Niksadat, head of community engagement for It’s Good, a restaurant app founded by Legend and Rosenthal. 7: Actress Natalee Linez showing off the goods.
Photography by SkyQuajus Turner
1: Alli Webb (center) flanked by fashion designers Emily Current and Meritt Elliott of the Great at the launch event for her new haircare brand Messy. 2: Webb founded Drybar, which originated in Brentwood, and her new product line is devoted to a natural rough dry method of styling hair. 3: Content creator and podcaster Caroline Baudino at the intimate lunch, held on the rooftop of Gjelina. 4: Meredith Welborn and her “messy” locks. 5: Jasmine Evans, Aja Piro-Ibrahim and Kelly Harris. 6: Signs of a good time. 7: DJ Lindsay Luv.
Photography by Asia Dobrowner
1: Emmanuel Acho, Holland Roden and Lewis Tan at the 5th anniversary celebration for Our Big Kitchen Los Angeles. 2: The weeklong celebration brought together locals and notable industry figures to benefit the nonprofit, dedicated to combating food insecurity by preparing and distributing nutritious meals to people in need. 3: OBKLA’s founders Yossi and Chaya Segelman. 4: A volunteer crew filled with many familiar faces! 5: Talent managers Evan Silverberg, Ashley Josephson and Alissa Vradenburg. 6: Mandana Dayani, Jamie Kantrowitz, Kelly Atterton and Ashlee Margolis, founder of the A List, which co-produced the event. 7: Actors Dani Oliveros and Shakira Ja’nai Paye.
Photography by Tim Regas
Want to be seen in the magazine? TAG
business monthly
Indya Yuill of Beacon Pointe: Your Local Private Wealth Advisor
Brentwood resident Indya Yuill and her team at Beacon Pointe Advisors deliver personalized private wealth management solutions rooted in their allWEALTH® philosophy. Offering bespoke financial planning—spanning retirement, estate and legacy strategies, tax minimization, healthcare, investments and insurance— Yuill serves some of the most discerning individuals, families, business owners and foundations. Her strategic expertise allows clients to make informed decisions about their financial future, utilizing wealth to live a great life and leave an enduring legacy. 11601 Wilshire Blvd.; Suite 1950; 310-243-6038; beaconpointe.com
Scan to read more
Redefining Healthy Food at Parakeet Café
Rooted in owners Carol and Jonathan Goldwasser’s personal journey discovering the healing powers of food, Parakeet Café—located on San Vicente by the Brentwood Country Mart—is flipping the script on “healthy” cuisine. Experience mouthwatering sandwiches that love you back and salads that make you glow—everything made fresh in-house with ingredients you can trust. No fillers, no fuss, just real food that feels good. Stop by and discover why eating well has never been this fun (or delicious). 13050 San Vicente Blvd., Suite 112; 310-746-5828; parakeetcafe.com
Scan to read more
Peter Norman Jewelers: Trusted with What’s Priceless
For more than 45 years, Peter Norman Jewelers—located in Brentwood’s Town & Country shopping center—has earned a reputation for precision, craftsmanship and care, creating exquisite custom pieces as well as original designs. After the Palisades Fire, Norman and his team were trusted to restore jewelry that held deep personal meaning. Some arrived in terrible shape—burnt, broken, nearly gone—but they were able to carefully bring them back, often to the awe of clients, restoring what was believed to be lost forever. 11640 San Vicente Blvd.; 310-820-8787; peternorman.com
Scan to read more
Want to be featured?
For the Win is Coming to Brentwood
If creating a smashburger is a form of art, then For the Win has mastered it: a perfectly blended beef patty with a nice crust but still juicy, grilled onions and the best sauce, all served on a soft potato bun. Now, this beloved burger destination—which first opened in Hollywood during the pandemic—is coming to Brentwood Village and is sure to become a neighborhood hotspot. Look for opening details in the month to come! 147 S. Barrington Ave.; forthewinla.com
Scan to read more
Contourology Brings its Signature Body Sculpting Studio to West Hollywood
After three-and-a-half years serving its devoted clientele in Brentwood, Contourology—owned by local Victoria Kseniya Simon—is expanding with a second location in West Hollywood. Now fans can enjoy the studio’s signature body sculpting treatments and services such as facials, lymphatic drainage, infrared sauna and more on both sides of the 405. To celebrate, they are offering a package of three hands-on body sculpting treatments for only $299 (regularly $750). 8314 W. 3rd St., West Hollywood and 11636 Barrington Ct., Brentwood; 213-667-0708; contourologyla.com
Scan to read more
Wilshire LED Lighting: Your Neighborhood Lighting Destination
With a 3,000-square-foot showroom on Wilshire Boulevard, Wilshire LED Lighting is the premier westside lighting destination and a resource for top designers and builders. Owned by Mike Rashidi—usually onsite providing his personal expertise—the shop offers a wide selection of indoor and outdoor lighting, controls, LED mirrors, bulbs and more for residential and commercial projects. Esteemed brands include Lutron, Halo, Modern Forms, Hammerton Studio, Visual Comfort and more. Use CODE15 for 15% off your first purchase. 11970 Wilshire Blvd.; 310-442-6000; wilshireledlighting.com
Scan to read more
Newly Built: 13164 Boca De Canon Lane
MY TOWN: THATCHER BAKER-BRIGGS
“Sweet Rose Creamery is everything I love about a neighborhood spot—seasonal, thoughtful and made from scratch. Their flavors are rooted in California produce, so every visit feels a little different, but it’s always exceptional.”
225 26th St., Suite 51; 310-260-2263; sweetrosecreamery.com
“Myodetox is my go-to for keeping my body tuned. Their approach blends precise bodywork with movement that actually sticks—it’s restorative, energizing and keeps me feeling ready for whatever the week throws at me.”
11611 San Vicente Blvd.; 925-430-6630; myodetox.com
“Baltaire is where classic dining meets a California ease. Whether it’s a long lunch on the terrace or a proper dinner inside, everything feels considered— the food, the wine list, the way they make you want to linger.”
11647 San Vicente Blvd.; 424-273-1660; baltaire.com
“Thatcher’s Wine is about connection and storytelling. Every bottle we carry—from something you reach for after work to a rare find you save for a milestone—has a narrative, point of view and personality,” says owner Thatcher Baker-Briggs. The Windsor, Canada native began his career in kitchens in Vancouver and San Francisco before becoming a master sommelier at just 22 years old. Following successful stints at renowned restaurants Takazawa in Tokyo and back in SF at Saison, he began advising on private wine collections and launched Thatcher’s Wine Consulting in 2019. The Brentwood shop—opened a little over a year ago in an inviting light-filled space on San Vicente—is a natural extension of his brand. “Brentwood has this perfect balance of sophistication and neighborhood charm,” says BakerBriggs, who lived in Brentwood for years before moving to Mar Vista. “I wanted our first shop to feel like a true local fixture, the kind of place you stop in just to see what’s new or share a glass with a friend.” When he’s not at the shop, you can find BakerBriggs around town, often at one of his favorite local spots.
Thatcher’s Wine; 11718 San Vicente Blvd.; 415-234-0046; thatcherswine.com
“When the Tu Madre taco craving hits, there’s no ignoring it. Their flavors are bold, playful and they pair surprisingly well with sparkling wine.”
11714 San Vicente Blvd.; 424-256-2945; tumadre.com
“Sunday mornings at the Brentwood Farmers’ Market are a ritual. As a former chef, I can’t help but get inspired walking the stalls—thinking about flavors, textures and how the season’s produce might pair with wines in the shop. It’s part shopping, part creative spark.”
741 S. Gretna Green Way; rawinspiration.org
“The Brentwood Country Mart has that old-California charm I love—boutiques, cafés and just enough chaos to keep it interesting. It’s the kind of place you can wander through without a plan and still have a perfect afternoon.”
225 26th St.; 310-458-6682; brentwoodcountrymart.com
“BusterPro is the best tennis shop around—my go-to for expert racket fittings, fast stringing and the best gear to keep me sharp on the court.” 11740 San Vicente Blvd., Suite 110; 310-820-6140; busterpro-la.com
Photo Credit: Miles Diggs
On a Roll
CHX food truck—founded by 20-year-old local Alex Hyman— brings elevated fried chicken sandwiches to Brentwood
ARTICLE BY CAROLE DIXON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRISH ALISON AND DARREN BATES
Alex Hyman with his CHX Sandwiches truck
If you have recently passed by the CVS drugstore on San Vicente, you might have noticed the bright blue CHX truck serving fried chicken sandwiches. If you are luckier, you may have even stopped to check it out. Quickly, you would have found that this is not your average fast food meals on wheels business.
Founder Alex Hyman is a 20-year-old Brentwood local and Crossroads School graduate, currently studying at Cornell University’s esteemed hospitality school in New York. Wise beyond his years, he spent his mid-teens working in fine dining restaurants, including Kali in Hollywood and Ospi in Venice, before switching gears to work on his good friend and Cornell fraternity big brother’s burger truck, Sunset Smash, last summer in the Palisades.
CONTINUED >
The custom food truck in CHX’s signature blue
The Valley Sando
Loaded
“Kali is a Michelin-starred restaurant so it’s very well-known,” says Hyman. “I turned 16 and I got hired to work part-time there in the kitchen.” Once Hyman was accepted to Cornell, he connected with alumni chef Jackson Kalb of Ospi—a Pacific Palisades native who attended Brentwood School and grew up working at Mélisse. “I worked there too, as a server, and got to know the front of house,” he says.
Hyman’s father is a middle school teacher at Paul Revere, and his mom is a screenwriter who also orchestrates fundraisers for political campaigns. While the young chef grew up in Westwood and Brentwood and earned his chops at some of the city’s top dining establishments, he wanted to offer an accessible option but with elevated food where his friends could afford to go. CHX was born at the end of May. “I took my last final at school in New York, and then six days later, I opened during summer break,” Hyman says. “I worked day and night, making sure the truck was ready and we had a great menu.”
Most days, you can find CHX parked side-by-side on San Vicente Boulevard with Hyman’s friends and mentors Sunset Smash and Gracias Señor Rudy. “They were in the Palisades, and now we’re all here together with three different cuisines on the same block,” he says. “They’re both amazing support systems, and we help each other out. It’s really nice to have this kind of community.”
The name CHX comes from the way kitchen restaurants label chicken. “I thought of the name first and then the brand,” Hyman says. “I decided to create this whole truck with different variations of chicken.”
“The impact that fine dining had on the food and the service is just an extra level of attention to detail. Everything we sell is fresh, organic and really good quality.”
The young entrepreneur was diagnosed with celiac disease when he was 13, so he went to work on a gluten-free version of the fried chicken sandwich with rice flour and potato starch. After sharing a few testing batches with family and friends, the feedback was positive. “They thought it was better than regular fried chicken,” he says. “It’s kind of like the Japanese way of making karaage. Our whole menu is gluten-free.”
After more recipe testing during a few free public pop-ups on both coasts, and a guest Google form for feedback, Hyman continued to evolve the concept, along with his well-received cooking videos on TikTok.
CHX: russet fries topped with popcorn chicken
“I thought there was a gap in the industry, and I wanted to offer good quality, creative food and do catering,” he says. To that end, Hyman added a few unique ingredients to his menu such as gochujang and yuzu. “I think the impact that fine dining had on the food and the service is just an extra level of attention to detail. Whether it be the Caesar dressing that we make from scratch or the brine for the chicken, we don’t cut corners. Everything we sell is fresh, organic and really good quality.”
Hyman still has a few more years in school, but the truck is continuing with his “phenomenal team” that includes cook Bryant and manager Dominique running operations now that Hyman returned to campus at the end of the summer. “Word’s been getting out and people really enjoy the food,” he says. So much so that it caught the attention of the original food truck guru Roy Choi, founder of Kogi, who started the restaurant on wheels phenomenon in Los Angeles. “He came by with his daughter to order some chicken and I told him that he inspired me so much growing up,” says Hyman. “I think there’s something special about being in a community like Brentwood, where I have regulars that come every day. Some are walking their dogs, and they stop to get a sandwich and we know each other’s names.”
But it’s not just friendly vibes that keep the regulars coming back. The sandwiches are mouthwateringly good—options include “The Venice,” with a tangy yuzu ranch sauce and “The K-Town,” featuring a sweet gochujang glaze . Other popular orders include a delicious chicken Caesar salad as well as popcorn chicken, marinated with a Taiwanese blend of ginger, garlic and tamari, then tossed with a five-spice seasoning. The French fries—which can come on their own or “loaded”-style topped with the popcorn CHX—are coated with an invisible layer of potato starch so that they stay crispier longer. “For the roasted garlic aioli—served as a side—we take five pounds of garlic, cook it low and slow in neutral oil, and then we emulsify it with that oil,” Hyman explains.
There are also cute t-shirts and other merchandise with the brand’s logo (designed by Hyman’s high school friend Jonah Manheim) in an eye-catching bright blue shade that matches the truck that Hyman had wrapped. Or why not take the entire truck to your house? CHX can be booked for private events and catering, which is a growing business for him in Brentwood.
The future goal for Hyman is to develop a line of sauces and condiments, plus his gluten-free flour blend, in addition to opening a brick-and-mortar in LA or New York City after graduating. Wherever he ends up, Hyman wants to keep the truck. “There’s something special about hopping around with the truck and building that community in LA,” he says. “Being able to make small impacts on people’s lives by giving them a really good sandwich and remembering their order can make a big difference in someone’s day.”
CHX Sandwiches; follow on Instagram at @chxsandwiches or email chxrestaurant@gmail.com for more info.
A CHX t-shirt
NATURAL SELECTION
Organic Oren arrives in Brentwood with his deliciously clean and healthy cuisine
LA native Oren Giladi developed a passion for clean eating after witnessing the healing power of food growing up with his own family’s health challenges. After refining his skills over 12 years as a private chef, crafting meals that were as nourishing as they were delicious, he founded Organic Oren, a wildly popular weekly meal delivery service that shares the joy and benefits of fresh, clean, flavorful cooking across southern California.
“We believe food should nourish both body and spirit, leaving you feeling radiant, satisfied and energized,” says Giladi. “We craft every meal from 100% organic, nutrient-dense produce, hand-picked from local farms just days before it reaches your door.” Now, Organic Oren has opened a Brentwood pick-up—located every
Monday inside the Hudson Pacific office building on the corner of Wilshire and San Vicente—to cater to his devoted westside clientele. “If you’re new to Organic Oren, this is the easiest way to try us,” says Giladi. “No delivery fee, no minimums, no commitments. Just choose exactly what you want from our weekly menu, place your order online by Sunday, then swing by Monday for pick up. Every Monday feels like a community gathering, all centered around fresh, flavorful and healthy food.” In celebration, Giladi shared a recipe for one of his favorite fall dishes.
Organic Oren; Mondays at 11601 Wilshire Blvd.; organicoren.com
ARTICLE BY AMANDA EBERSTEIN
Oren Giladi
Photo Credit: Emmanuel Pickett
Fall Harvest Salad
INGREDIENTS:
SALAD
• 2 heads little gem lettuce, chopped
• 2 cups arugula
• 1 small head frisée, torn
• 1 small head radicchio, torn
• 1 acorn squash
• 1 (15 oz.) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 ribs celery, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• ½ cup pecans
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (plus more for pecans)
• salt & pepper, to taste
• olive oil, for roasting and tossing
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
DRESSING
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp champagne vinegar
• 1 tbsp agave nectar
• 2 tbsp shallots, finely diced
• ½ tsp oregano
• salt & pepper, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS:
3. Prepare the Beans: In a bowl, combine rinsed cannellini beans with olive oil, salt, pepper, sliced scallions, chopped dill and parsley. Set aside.
4. Prepare the Celery: Slice celery thinly and soak in ice water for five minutes for extra crispness. Drain and set aside.
1. Roast the Squash: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the acorn squash in half, scoop out seeds and cut into threeinch wedges. Halve each wedge. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, cumin, paprika and maple syrup. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 35 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Set aside to cool.
2. Maple Pecans: Lower oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss pecans with olive oil, maple syrup, salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, until bubbling and caramelized. Cool completely.
5. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, champagne vinegar, agave, diced shallots, oregano, salt and pepper until smooth. For extra creaminess, blend instead of whisking.
6. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, add little gem lettuce, frisée, arugula, roasted squash, pecans, beans and celery. Drizzle with a small amount of dressing and toss. Add radicchio and a touch more dressing, then toss lightly to keep it crisp.
7. Serve: Plate and serve immediately or refrigerate dressing separately if making ahead.
ARTICLE BY CAROLE DIXON
YOOSHI SUSHI AND HUNT & GATHER DELIVER PREMIUM FISH—AND SUPERIOR SERVICE—TO EVENTS AND HOMES IN BRENTWOOD AND BEYOND
FRESH CATCH
Farzad Youshei of Yooshi Sushi and Hunt & Gather
“WE
Whether planning an event this fall and seeking out the most delicious sushi— from intricately prepared platters to full live-action chefs—or simply striving to procure some of the freshest fish in
to professionalism and attention to detail has built strong relationships with clients and partners alike.”
Known for events that range from intimate soirees to large scale affairs—
FOCUS ON FRESH, PREMIUM FISH, HIGHLY TRAINED CHEFS AND PERSONALIZED SERVICE THAT MAKES EACH EVENT MEMORABLE.”
town for your next dinner party or family meal, look no further than Yooshi Sushi Catering and Hunt & Gather.
Farzad Youshei, the enterprising founder of both businesses, began his career managing a sushi bar in Encino that his restaurateur family took over and eventually parlayed it into his own successful catering and event business. For the past dozen years, Youshei has focused on Yooshi Sushi—a clever play on his own last name—with 25 percent of his business landing in Brentwood and on the westside.
Youshei, who lives in Tarzana with his wife and children, attributes the success of his catering business to an unwavering commitment to quality, consistency and an exceptional guest experience. “We focus on fresh, premium fish, highly trained chefs and personalized service that makes each event memorable,” he says. “Our dedication
be it dinner parties, real estate open houses or bar mitzvahs and weddings— Yooshi Sushi can add theatrical flair with chefs slicing and searing the fish and making the rolls right in front of guests. Most of the fish is sourced from a combination of Japan, Baja California and top purveyors in the US—depending on the season and availability. “We focus on premium quality and consistency, so we work with trusted vendors who specialize in sourcing from the best waters worldwide,” says Youshei. On site, talented chefs will create beautiful specialty rolls, sashimi, nigiri and even live tempura, seared albacore and white tuna, all made from the freshest ingredients and complemented with crispy onions and other delicious garnishes. “These items consistently draw excitement and engagement from guests, while also showcasing the quality and artistry we’re known for,” he adds.
CONTINUED >
Youshei is also no stranger to fullscale extravaganzas and pulling off the unexpected or seemingly impossible. He recalls an annual wine festival at the Petersen Automotive Museum with 2,000 people and a VIP area where they filleted a whole tuna in front of guests. “Being able to pull that event off while making sure that everyone was fed and had a good time was one of the most challenging things we have ever done,” he says.
A similar scenario came into play when Youshei and his team did an event for a local school where they ordered food for 200 people and 750 attendees showed up. “We had a much larger turnout than expected, but we were able to pivot quickly and make sure everyone was taken care of, and it turned into a really memorable experience,” he says. “Events are unpredictable, and you never know what may go wrong but you have to be able to keep the faith, pull through and make it happen.”
Now, Youshei is expanding his culinary reach with Hunt & Gather, a concierge-like service that delivers fresh fish from top local markets—many of which are the same trusted sources that Youshei has garnered over the years from his sushi business—direct to doorsteps throughout LA. No more anticipation at the grocery store fish counter of what they will have that day, but rather a guaranteed order coming directly to your home on a specific day. “We offer a weekly dock-todoor fish delivery service to ensure customers get the freshest selections right to their homes,” he says.
A talented Yooshi Sushi chef
Fresh fish from Hunt & Gather
“OUR TRUSTED VENDORS SPECIALIZE IN SOURCING FROM THE BEST WATERS WORLDWIDE.”
The curated menu rotates weekly and is subject to the season and availability. According to Youshei, the most requested fish are whole or filleted salmon, bluefin tuna and branzino, followed closely by specialty items like hamachi and trout. “These tend to be staples for home chefs and clients who want restaurant-quality fish at home,” he explains. Orders are prepared and packaged to customers’ specifications, and the Hunt & Gather team will also offer recipes, suggested wine pairings, treats and more.
The two businesses also complement each other well: Yooshi Sushi Catering focuses on event experiences with live chef interaction and beautiful presentation, while Hunt & Gather provides top-quality fresh fish directly to customers for home use. “Together, they allow me to serve both event clients and individuals seeking premium fish with convenience and reliability,” Youshei explains.
Yooshi Sushi Catering; 818-481-1297; yooshisushi.com Hunt & Gather; 323-653-6333; myhuntandgather.com
Delicious sushi on display
Yooshi Sushi chefs at an event
Hunt & Gather delivers “from dock to door” throughout LA
Power Surge
At Fred Fitness, Artificial Intelligence makes the workout experience all the more gratifying
Whether it’s the intimidation factor of going into a jock-filled weight room, being bored with your typical workout routine or just not knowing where to start, there are countless reasons why people put off going to the gym. But imagine a workout environment where everything was done specifically just for you. Programming, outlining a path to meet your fitness goals, adjusting each piece of equipment, monitoring how much rest to take in between sets, when to increase weight—and all without having to coordinate with (or pay for) a personal trainer.
At Fred Fitness, which opened earlier this year in a striking 11,500-square-foot space on 4th Street in Santa Monica (previously the home of the Patagonia store), the team uses AI technology to not only craft a custom program for each client, but to help coach through the experience every step of the way.
While Fred Fitness may be LA’s first AI-powered gym, its roots go back to Germany, where CEO Andre Enzensberger is originally from. Here, his brother, Alfred “Fred” Enzensberger, founded Clever Fit—a massively successful chain of gyms that launched in 1999 and now has over 570 clubs across Europe. In 2023, Alfred joined forces with the CEO of fellow German-based smart fitness brand EGYM to create a full AI gym in Munich. Andre rightly thought that it would be a great idea to bring a similar concept to LA.
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA BROOKS
The process at Fred Fitness begins with a rubber wristband that stores your personal info. A staff member will help you get registered before leading you through an assessment that gauges your BioAge, which reflects your current health and fitness based on key values for strength, flexibility, metabolism and cardio. Next, answer questions about fitness goals, desired length of workouts and number of days a week you’d like to work out, and a full program is drafted. (Human trainers are also on hand to further customize your plan, as well as provide extra support and answer questions.)
However, Fred Fitness utilizes AI for much more than just programming. Each of the EGYM strength and resistance machines— which are beautiful in addition to being cutting-edge—use a digital interface to guide workouts. Simply scan your wristband and the machine adjusts specifically for you to your height. Begin the workout, and not only does it count and log your reps, but also tracks your pace and length of movement so that your form is perfect.
AI-powered equipment at Fred Fitness
Each machine will add more weight as strength increases (or back off should you be having a slow day).
All planning is done through the gym’s app, which allows you to be private or part of its community. Opt in to show your results and see how you compare to other members. Feeling competitive and want to connect? You can send messages through the app too.
On the gym’s upper floor, a range of new Matrix cardio machines (so new in fact that Fred Fitness is the only gym in Los Angeles to have them) feature larger screens and greater capabilities than typical equipment. A lower level features stretching mats and foam rollers to promote recovery. Window seats at the front of the gym offer lounge spaces with Theragun compression pants.
Should members wish to deviate from the app’s programming, there is a strength circuit designed to give full-body workouts in just 20 minutes, and a handful of group fitness classes are offered each week for mat Pilates and stretching.
And because fitness is only one aspect of healthy living, the gym will soon offer blood analysis with a device that can be administered by anyone and painlessly attaches to the back of your arm, drawing a vial in three minutes. The sample is then sent to a lab at MIT for analysis of 27 biomarkers, and based on that, supplements and nutritional tweaking are recommended.
But of course, like most things in life—there is no magic pill. While AI can help get you started, what you give is ultimately what you’ll get.
Fred Fitness, 1344 4th St., Santa Monica; 310-394-3733; fredfitness.com. Call now and mention Brentwood City Lifestyle to set up a free consultation.
Fred Fitness CEO Andre Enzensberger
The striking warehouse-like space in Santa Monica
RADIANCE IV INFUSION
Boost energy, glow brighter, and recover faster with our nutrient-rich infusion powered by Infuvite.
Perfect pre-trip, post-trip, or anytime you want to feel your best Inquire with a member of the VH Skincare Team
"I love living and working in Brentwood and meeting new neighbors while designing their gardens and outdoor spaces. If you are in need of some local help and insight, please do not hesitate to reach out."
- Teryl Ciarlo, Founder of Teryl Designs
Book Your Free Fitness Assessment
Financial & Retirement Planning • Estate Planning & Asset Protection • Healthcare & Medicare Planning • Strategic Tax Planning • Coordinated Investment Plans • Education Planning • Charitable Endeavors
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
Palisades Charter Elementary’s Annual
Brentwood Science Magnet Elementary; 740 S. Gretna Green Way
This annual celebration benefiting Palisades Charter Elementary takes on special meaning this year, bringing together neighbors, friends and supporters for a honky tonk-themed day at the school’s temporary location at Brentwood Science Magnet. Offerings include carnival games, food trucks, hands-on activities, a silent auction and live music—including a headlining performance by Fitz and the Tantrums. yeehawpali.com
OCTOBER 29TH-30TH
High Sport Trunk Show at Capitol Brentwood
Capitol, 225 26th St., Suite 38A 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best known for their kick-flare pant, but beloved for their effortlessly refined style, High Sport is showing their latest collection at Capitol at the Brentwood Country Mart. Now is your opportunity to try on these coveted pieces in person and gain premier access to their newest styles, while also perusing Capitol’s exquisitely curated shop-capitol.com
Brentwood Country Mart
Halloween Spectacular
Brentwood Country Mart, 225 26th St. | 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Make your way to the Mart for trick-ortreating, costume contests and a special Halloween-themed movie night in the courtyard. It’s an evening for candy buckets, camera rolls and memories made the old-fashioned way as the community joins together for this beloved annual trabrentwoodcountrymart.com
Brentwood City Lifesty
2025 PHASE ONE ANNUAL GALA
OCTOBER 9TH | THE BROADSTAGE 1310 11TH ST., SANTA MONICA PHASEONEFOUNDATION.COM
Local Flavor
Since 1999, Phase One Foundation—founded by longtime Brentwood residents Alberto and Stacy Valner—has raised more than $23 million to support groundbreaking clinical cancer trials, treatments and research in Los Angeles and beyond. The annual Phase One Gala is always one of the most highly anticipated events of the year—and also a true foodie destination, with a culinary experience curated by Michael Kassar (owner and operating manager of Organic Oren, Sua, Bar di Bello and Wexler’s Smokehouse) and featuring some of the city’s top restaurants and chefs. “I love getting to see how the food and local communities come together,” says Kassar. “It’s an incredible event with so many different restaurants from so many walks of life uniting to raise money for an incredible cause.” Now, as the gala returns to the BroadStage in Santa Monica, Kassar reveals some of his top foodie fixations to look for during this special night.
BAR DI BELLO
“I am extremely excited for my new Italian restaurant opening up in Silverlake called Bar di Bello. A much-needed restaurant that features the tantalizing tastes of Italy up and down the boot. You have to try the pastas, antipastos, wine and cocktails—you will not be disappointed.” 3300 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles; bardibello.la
JITLADA
“Jitlada is one of the most important Thai restaurants in America. The legend Jazz Singsanong has a limitless flavor range, and even though she is very sweet, she has some of the spiciest food in town. There is no other restaurant like it.” 5233 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles; 323-667-9809; jitladala.com
BADMAASH
“This is quite possibly the best Indian food in Los Angeles—amazing traditional flavors but with a fun and modern flare. It’s always finding the way to people’s hearts, easily through their stomachs.” 418 Fairfax Ave., Los Angeles; 213-281-5185; badmaashla.com
LORENZO CALIFORNIA
“There has been a surge of focaccia restaurants in LA, but none are better than Lorenzo California. The owners are front and center every day to make sure their sandwiches are perfect, and let’s not forget their weekly specials sure to dazzle your taste buds.” 9529 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills; 424-332-2949; lorenzocalifornia.com
BRIDGETOWN ROTI
“Good Caribbean food has often been underrepresented in Los Angeles. That is no longer a problem with Bridgetown Roti. It is refreshing to have Rashida and Malique bring these vibes and flavors to the forefront of LA’s culinary scene.” 818 N. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles; 747-221-9026; bridgetownroti.com
Michael Kassar
Our approach is intentional and personal. Each residence is designed around the people who will live there, while respecting the spirit, scale, and character of the Pacific Palisades.