LOS ANGELES
DECEMBER 2017 SOCALPULSE.COM
BECAUSE YOU’VE ARRIVED
GIFT PICKS FROM NOTABLE LOCALS DINING SPOTS WITH DAZZLING VIEWS WINTRY WONDERS ACROSS THE COUNTY
MERRY
&
BRIGHT
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE L.A. FOR THE HOLIDAYS
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HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are ©are &© ™ &Warner Bros.Bros. Entertainment HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia ™ Warner Entertainment Inc. Harry PotterPotter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s17)(s17) The Walking DeadDead © 2017 AMCAMC Film Film Holdings Inc. Harry Publishing Rights © JKR. The Walking © 2017 Holdings LLC. LLC. All Rights Reserved. ©2017 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 17-ADV-21602 All Rights Reserved. ©2017 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 17-ADV-21602
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BARBIZON & BEYOND Master paintings from the 19th Century
G A L E R I E
M I C H A E L
Open to the public and with complimentary parking 224 NORTH RODEO DRIVE | BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90210 Monday-Saturday 10-7 | Sunday 11-5 | 310 273 3377 www.galeriemichael.com | art@galeriemichael.com BORDIGNON, Noé, 1841-1920 | La primavera della vita, circa 1905 | Oil on canvas | Signed lower left Provenance: Christie's, New York, 27 January 1979, lot 152 | Literature: A. B. Pastega, 'Noé Bordignon, Il cantore del Pedemonte del grappa,' L'Illustre Bassanese, no. 135/136, January-March 2012, p. 13, illustrated, as 'Contadina che torna dai campi' Exhibition history: Florence, Associazione degli Artisti Italiani, Esposizione 1906-1907, 1 November 1906 - 30 June 1907, as either no. 36, Riposto or no. 37, Tramonto d'estate | 57 x 34 in WHERE-11-NOV-BARBIZON-v2.indd 4 01-05_TOC_WLA.indd 1
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where
los angeles December 2017 The gift guide issue
COntents
departments
the guide
5 Editor’s Note
64 Dining Notable restaurants by cuisine and neighborhood
A holiday tradition.
6 Hot Dates
76 Entertainment Special events, performing arts and sports
A handy guide to tackling the Tournament of Roses, plus our top arts and entertainment picks this month.
78 Attractions Theme parks, activities, studio tours, museums and more
96 30 Things We Love Immersive art, beautiful baubles, Italian sweets and myriad treats to delight you and yours this holiday season.
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8 Entertainment The hottest holiday happenings across the county.
86 Spas Havens for pampering and beauty
88 NIGHTLIFE Hot bars and cool clubs
Sea Level Restaurant & Lounge
90 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, getting around and getting to know Los Angeles
10 Dining Eataly L.A. at Westfield Century City and Umi by Hamasaku at the Point in El Segundo open.
City Tours
12 Beauty Spa treatments indulge your appetite for pampering.
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14 Shopping The Great pops up at Rolling Greens, Jenni Kayne takes home on the road, and L.A. Original supports local makers.
Jenni Kayne knits
34 Beverly Hills 38 Santa Monica 42 West Hollywood 46 Hollywood 50 Downtown 54 Pasadena 56 The Valley 58 South Bay
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16 Gifted and Talented Three local tastemakers—interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard, fashion designer Heidi Merrick and model-turned-pastry chef Margarita Kallas-Lee—share their picks for sure-to-please gifts this holiday season. By jennie nunn
ON THE COVER Descanso’s Enchanted: Forest of Light. Photo by Gene Faught
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22 Table With a View From Hollywood to the South Bay, restaurants both new and tried-and-true provide discerning diners with vistas as compelling as their menus. by roger grody
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Staples Center/L.A. Live/ Convention Center
South Coast Plaza/ Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Copyright © 2017
where Los Angeles
From top: courtesy shade hotel; nicki sebastian photography
where now
84 shopping The county’s major retail destinations
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THE COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA Rooted in the history of motor sports and watchmaking, the legendary chronograph that was born to race. It doesn’t just tell time. It tells history.
OYSTER PERPETUAL COSMOGR APH DAY TONA
rolex
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oyster perpetual, cosmograph and daytona are ® trademarks.
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where MAGAZINE
PUBLISHER EDITOR
Jeff Levy
Suzanne Ennis
ART DIRECTOR
Carol Wakano
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Benjamin Epstein
PRODUCTION ARTIST Diana Gonzalez CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER Heidi Schwindt ASSOCIATE EDITOR Gillian Glover COPY EDITOR Brenda Wong CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Roger Grody, Marina Kay, Jennie Nunn CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dale Berman, Brown Cannon III, Matt Hartman, Edwin Santiago SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jessica Levin Poff
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Tim Egan, Joel Gilliam, Heather Price, Brooke Knetzger, Crystal Sierra BUSINESS MANAGER
Leanne Killian Riggar
CIRCULATION / SPECIAL EVENTS MANAGER
Jennifer Salas
MARKETING/PRODUCTION MANAGER
Dawn Kiko Cheng
DIGITAL STRATEGIST
Christina Wiese ADMINISTRATION
Whitney Lauren Han, Madelyn Harris, Kamryn Stelly NATIONAL SALES
Tiffany Reinhold 714.813.6600 DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL DIGITAL SALES Bridget Cody 706.821.6663 HONORARY PRESIDENT
Ted Levy
where Los Angeles
3679 Motor Ave., Suite 300 Los Angeles, California 90034 Phone: 310.280.2880 Fax: 310.280.2890 EMAIL Editorial Suzanne.Ennis@WhereLA.com Art Art@WhereLA.com Production Ads@WhereLA.com Website Christina.Wiese@WhereLA.com Circulation Jennifer.Salas@WhereLA.com Plan for your next visit to Los Angeles. Subscribe to where: single copy $4, 12 issues $36. Contact: Jennifer Salas. Phone: 310.280.2880 Email: Jennifer.Salas@WhereLA.com © 2017 Southern California Media Group. All rights reserved. Published by Southern California Media Group. where makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited. where is a registered trademark of Morris Visitor Publications.
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welcome
LOST & FOUND
A Note From the Editor
A Holiday Tradition
Daniel Ennis
Last December, I used this space to recount L.A.’s achievements from the year prior. 2017 was a humdinger, too, so I’ve decided to start a Where Los Angeles tradition and brag my way through another holiday letter. I had hoped that our crowning glory would be a World Series win. Still, what a season for the Dodgers! See p. 78 to cheer L.A.’s Lakers, Clippers, Kings, Rams and Chargers toward another
WOMEN • MEN • KIDS • HOME
big championship for the city. On the tourism front, L.A. welcomed numerous notable hotels, including Dream Hollywood, the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills and downtown’s InterContinental and Hotel Indigo. With those openings came newsmaking dining arrivals—e.g., the Waldorf Astoria’s culinary concepts by chef JeanGeorges Vongerichten (see p. 22 to learn about some of their spectacular views). Other buzzy food debuts included Eataly L.A., the Italian food mecca’s first West Coast outpost and current talk of the town (p. 10). 2017 also saw the 100th birthday of downtown’s Grand Central Market. After exploring its stalls, you can take a ride up and down Angels Flight, which reopened with fanfare this fall. You may recall the historic funicular’s cameo in La La Land, this year’s Oscar-winning love letter to L.A. Also headline-making on this year’s culture front: Hamilton’s arrival at the Pantages (p. 76), the Getty-led Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA initiative and Yayoi Kusama’s mind-bending show at the Broad (p. 80), all of which you can still catch this month—if you can score a ticket, that is. In short, 2017 was another banner year for L.A., and, once again, I can’t wait to see what the next year holds. But in the meantime, I hope that this issue helps you enjoy all that L.A. has to offer during this holiday season. —Suzanne Ennis
In short, 2017 was another banner year for L.A., and, once again, I can’t wait to see what the next year holds.
a collection of shops
Santa Monica Hollywood 2230 Main St 6320 Yucca St.
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WHERE CALENDAR
HOT DATES December 2017
LET’S DO THIS Because we just want to have fun IN DECEMBER
Sleepless: The Music Center After Hours Dec. 1
The 10th edition of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion’s latenight event features a trio of Cuban musicians. p. 78
Los Angeles Auto Show Dec. 1-10
Head to the L.A. Convention Center to see what’s new in the world of wheels, ogle about 1,000 cars and take a test-drive. p. 76
29Rooms Dec. 7-10, 14-17
Refinery29’s Insta-friendly fun house of style, culture and technology takes over Row DTLA. Less fun: Tickets are sold out. refinery29.com
Everything’s Coming Up Roses ORIGINALLY ENVISIONED AS A WAY to broadcast Los Angeles’ sunny winter weather to the rest of the world, the Tournament of Roses’ iconic Rose Parade and the subsequent Rose Bowl Game have blossomed into a New Year’s tradition over the past 100-plus years. If you’re in L.A., head to Pasadena to welcome 2018 with rose-colored glasses. All December long, you can get a behind-the-scenes look at the parade by helping put finishing touches on the parade’s flower-covered floats. Contact float-building companies such as Phoenix Decorating Co. (phoenixdeco.com) or Paradiso Parade Floats (paradisoparadefloats.com) to volunteer. Or, from Dec. 28-30, drop by designated “decorating places” Rosemont Pavilion or Rose Float Plaza South. On Dec. 29, Equestfest, at Burbank’s Los Angeles Equestrian Center,
lets you meet the parade’s equine stars and their riders and watch them perform drills and dances. From Dec. 29-30, Pasadena City College hosts Bandfest, featuring field shows by the parade’s top-notch marching bands (see above) before they make their way down Colorado Boulevard. To see the televised parade in person the morning of Jan. 1 (the parade begins at 8 a.m.), secure a spot on the sidelines by purchasing a grandstand ticket from Sharp Seating Co. ($55-$100, sharpseating.com). The most in-demand seats are at the intersection of Orange Grove and Colorado boulevards, where TV crews line up to film the elaborate floats, equestrian units and marching bands. Free curbside viewing is possible, but spots are first-come, first-served and can be staked out as early as noon the day before the parade.
To purchase a ticket to the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Rose Bowl, which starts at 1 p.m., visit ticketmaster.com (note that tickets typically sell out well before the event). If football’s not your thing, you can head to Sierra Madre and Washington boulevards after the parade to view the floats (see below) and their incredible handiwork. The showcase continues through the afternoon of Jan. 2. See listing p. 76.
HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Check out our Weekend Roundup at socalpulse.com for up-to-the-minute lowdowns on the coolest concerts, plays, sporting events, festivals, art exhibitions and restaurants.
Cirque du Soleil: Luzia Opening Dec. 8
The modern circus company’s new show, inspired by Mexican culture, arrives at Dodger Stadium. p. 76
Lady Gaga Dec. 18
The genre-bending singer-songwriter returns to the Forum for the third time this year. p. 78
Hamilton Through Dec. 30
The curtain falls on the Hollywood Pantages’ production of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hit musical about Alexander Hamilton. p. 76
Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors Through Jan. 1
The Broad’s mega-popular exhibition continues through the end of the year. A limited number of standby tickets are available each day. p. 80
COURTESY PASADENA TOURNAMENT OF ROSES (2)
Dec. 28-Jan. 2
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WHERE NOW The best in entertainment, dining, beauty and shopping
entertainment
'Tis the Season Make merry and get into the holiday spirit with a multitude of festive events taking place across the county. By Gillian Glover
PERFORMING ARTS Is there a more quintessentially wintry work than The Nutcracker? Los Angeles Youth Ballet presents the world premiere of a production of the ballet from Dec. 22-23 at Glendale’s Alex Theatre (alextheatre.org). Joffrey Ballet principal dancers Jeraldine Mendoza and Dylan Gutierrez, pictured here, star. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Ballet performs a version of the work—set in 1912 L.A.—at the Alex, UCLA's Royce Hall, the Dolby Theatre (featuring a live orchestra) and the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center (p. 76). And, lastly, the Music Center hosts the world premiere of the new George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker by Miami City Ballet, running Dec. 7-10 at Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Set to Balanchine’s iconic choreography, the performances will include live vocals from the Los Angeles Children’s Chorus (p. 78). W
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY DESCANSO GARDENS, JAMIE PHAM (2). OPPOSITE: CHERYL MANN
Descanso Gardens’ Enchanted: Forest of Light; right, L.A. Zoo Lights
From Dec. 14-24 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, Beauty and the Beast: A Christmas Rose finds Broadway veterans and La La Land choreographer Mandy Moore putting a holiday spin on the classic fairy tale (visitpasadena.com). The Forum in Inglewood hosts three local radio stations’ star-studded holiday concerts—KIIS FM’s Jingle Ball on Dec. 1, with headliners Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran; KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas from Dec. 9-10, with Muse and Morrissey; and Power 106 Cali Christmas on Dec. 16, with Chance the Rapper and Travis Scott—as well as Barry Manilow’s A Very Barry Christmas on Dec. 20 (p. 78). The Walt Disney Concert Hall also boasts a festive lineup this month. Among the highlights: On Dec. 2 and 9, the Los Angeles Master Chorale kicks off the holiday season with its Festival of Carols; the Los Angeles Children’s Chorus performs its Sounds About Town winter concert Dec. 3; and Dec. 16’s Holiday Sing-Along invites guests to join in on holiday favorites. Then, on Dec. 17, the L.A. Master Chorale takes on Handel’s “Messiah,” followed by its 37th Annual "Messiah" Sing-Along the next night. And on Dec. 23, sing along with Bing
Crosby and his beloved 1954 film at the White Christmas SingAlong (p. 78). On Christmas Eve, the 58th annual Emmy-winning L.A. County Holiday Celebration returns to Dorothy Chandler Pavilion with a free familyfriendly show, featuring bands, choirs and dance companies that honor L.A.’s many neighborhoods and cultures (p. 78). SKATING AND SLEDDING The Queen Mary transforms into a wintry wonderland starting Dec. 13 with this year’s all-new Chill experience, which features a tribute to holiday traditions from around the world and a new Ice Adventure Park—the first in the U.S.—offering ice skating, ice bumper cars, a two-story icetubing slide and more (p. 76). At Ice at Santa Monica, you can whirl and twirl on the ice at the 8,000-square-foot outdoor skating rink, then head to the ocean just steps away, and Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square lets you skate in the shadow of downtown L.A.’s skyscrapers (p. 76). At the South Bay’s annual Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks celebration Dec. 10, before the sky lights up over the pier, the Skechers Snow Park gives kids the chance to snowball-fight, build snowmen and go sledding (p. 76).
DELIGHTFUL LIGHTS During the holiday season, L.A. Zoo Lights pays homage to its animal residents through dazzling displays. Meet real reindeer, then stroll through a disco-ball forest and glittering light tunnels (p. 78). Descanso Gardens recently got in on the holiday-lights game with Enchanted: Forest of Light, a walk-through interactive lighting experience (p. 78). For a coastal excursion, head to Burton Chace Park to watch the 55th annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade, where decorated boats set sail after a fireworks show. There’s also real snow, sledding, crafts and face painting at the park beforehand. SEASONAL SHOPPING Held at the California Market Center from Dec. 2-3, Unique L.A. Holiday Market is a one-stop shop for handmade presents from more than 400
independent makers, free DIY projects and gift wrapping (p. 76). Similarly, the biannual Echo Park Craft Fair’s holiday edition, held at Silver Lake’s Mack Sennett Studios from Dec. 9-10, attracts savvy shoppers hunting for unique gifts made by talented local artisans (p. 76). With a roster of about 250 makers, Renegade Craft Fair, also taking place Dec. 9-10, takes over Los Angeles State Historic Park with a free pop-up market, DIY workshops, food, drinks and festive music (p. 76). NEW YEAR’S EVE Ring in a lively New Year’s Eve With Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox at Walt Disney Concert Hall, set to the YouTube sensation’s genre-twisting sounds (p. 78). Nearby, Grand Park and the Music Center’s free N.Y.E.L.A. celebration offers live music, food, inflatable art and photo booths (grandparkla.org). Union Station travels back in time to the Roaring ’20s at the sixth annual Prohibition NYE, complete with burlesque, live jazz, an open bar and VIP table service (prohibitionnye.com). Offshore, Catalina Island’s elegant 45th Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration at the Casino Ballroom offers dinner, live music, dancing and Champagne (catalinachamber.com).
Los Angeles Children’s Chorus
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where NOW / December
2017
a taste of Italy
dining
East/West/South West L.A. sushi staple Hamasaku has a new South Bay outpost, and it’s conveniently situated near LAX, the beach and trendy retailers. Umi by Hamasaku, at the Point lifestyle complex in El Segundo, offers bento lunches, seasonal shared plates, traditional and modern izakaya dishes and, of course, various sushi preparations, including a small selection of the rolls
famously named after Hamasaku’s celebrity regulars. Can’t make up your mind? Opt for the omakase, which includes a starter, two sashimi courses, an eight-piece nigiri course and a hand roll. It’s only $50, so you’ll have plenty of dough left over for holiday shopping. 860 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 116, El Segundo, 310.524.9980, umibyhamasaku.com
Umi’s spicy tuna crispy rice
from top: courtesy eataly; courtesy umi by hamasaku
So hot that it created a Line-O-Meter on its Twitter account, Eataly L.A. (from founder/creator Oscar Farinetti and partners including Mario Batali and Joe and Lidia Bastianich) is a three-story, 67,000-square-foot temple of Italian gastronomy. The new Westfield Century City location is the 39th Eataly worldwide—and the West Coast’s first. But despite the brand’s international presence, its secret sauce may be its partnerships with local producers and restaurants: Providence (helmed by acclaimed chef Michael Cimarusti) and Di Stefano Cheese are just two of dozens represented here. Their artisanal products and fares, as well as top-quality Italian imports, are spread across a village’s worth of culinary offerings: a cooking school, four restaurants, nine eateries (including panini, pizza and cannoli and bomboloni counters), two cafés, two bars, five fresh-production counters and retail areas for wine, housewares, dry goods, gifts and more. Mangiamo and be merry—but be prepared for a wait! 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 213.310.8000, eataly.com
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OSKA 9693 Wilshire Boulevard Beverly Hills, CA 90212 310 271 2806 OSKA 13 Douglas Alley Pasadena, CA 91103 626 432 1729 Shop online beverlyhills.oska.com
Beverly Hills / Chicago / Minneapolis / Healdsburg / Mill Valley / New York / Pasadena / Seattle / Calgary / Vancouver London / Paris / Munich / Amsterdam / Stockholm
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where NOW / December
2017 beauty
Delicious Bliss
courtesy the ritz-carlton spa , los angeles (2)
The relaxation sanctuary and a “Wrapped in Chocolate” treatment (inset) at the Ritz-Carlton Spa, Los Angeles
The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Los Angeles is elevating pampering to a new level of decadence with help from Valerie Confections. “Wrapped in Chocolate” holiday treatments include a pedicure, facial, scrub and massage inspired by the local chocolatier’s peppermint bark, Nature Is Slow bar, Champagne truffles and Scotch & Stout truffles, and each service is bookended with a cup of hot chocolate and a sweet treat. At the Hotel Bel-Air Spa—the only L.A. spa partnered with Swiss skin care line Valmont—extracts of honey, propolis and royal jelly in the ultraluxe L’Elixir des Glaciers Essence of Bees line power anti-aging facials and body treatments. And at the new La Prairie Spa at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, a special “Caviar + Cocktails” package incorporates La Prairie’s caviar-infused products to lift, firm and brighten skin—and holiday spirits. Find details for these and more top L.A. luxury spas on pp. 86-88.
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#BOLDHOLIDAYS
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LoveBeverlyHills.com
VisitBeverlyHills
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WHERE NOW / December
2017
L.A. PROUD
SHOPPING
Home on the Road
To celebrate her new home collection, Los Angeles designer Jenni Kayne outfitted a renovated 1957 Airstream (pictured here) with her favorite pieces and sent it on a cross-country tour. This month, the mobile shop returns to L.A. County with two pop-ups: Dec. 3-10 at Platform in Culver City and Dec. 12-24 at the Grove (see p. 84). Hop aboard to shop for handwoven Peruvian alpaca pillows and color-blocked blankets, heavyweight linen travel clutches, knitted alpaca gloves and beanies, earthy candles, striped silk pajamas, shearling and suede Moroccan slippers and Tappan x Jenni Kayne photographs by SoCal native Marc Gabor. All items reflect Kayne’s warm, minimalist style and are perfect for gifting and getting. Visit jennikayne.com/airstream for additional tour stops and dates.
ALL THE TRIMMINGS Deck the halls and don gay apparel with help from home and garden store Rolling Greens and its first fashion partner, The Great (thisisthegreat.com). The vintage-Americana-inspired, L.A.-based label from Emily Current and Meritt Elliott has launched its first official pop-up in Rolling Greens’ wintry
wonderland on Beverly Boulevard, offering pieces from holiday and A/W collections (pictured left), plus exclusive styles and footwear. Reserve a spot at one of Rolling Greens’ holiday workshops to get crafty after you shop. 7505 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.934.4500, rollinggreensnursery.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: NICKI SEBASTIAN PHOTOGRAPHY; COURTESY L.A. ORIGINAL; COURTESY THE GREAT
Mayor Eric Garcetti is capitalizing on the city’s creative culture with L.A. Original, an initiative to promote local makers through a collection of L.A.branded products. Some of the area's coolest companies, including Clare V. and Pocket Square Clothing (creators of the tie below), contributed designs, proceeds from which support creative entrepreneurship in underserved L.A. communities. Shop the products at the L.A. Original pop-up in Westfield Century City (p. 86) and online at laoriginal.com.
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GET PARTY READY
THE NEW WESTFIELD CENTURY CITY. NOW OPEN.
AMC THEATRES | CHAN LUU | EATALY JAVIER’S | NORDSTROM | PENHALIGON’S westfield.com/centurycity 06-15_WhereNow_WLA.indd 15
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Gifted and Talented THREE LOS ANGELES TASTEMAKERS REVEAL THEIR FAVORITE GIFT ITEMS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, INCLUDING A COUPLE OF THEIR OWN DESIGN. HERE’S WHAT TO CHECK OFF THE LIST NOW. BY JENNIE NUNN
Spread, clockwise from above: Farrow Swivel Bar Cart by Martyn Lawrence Bullard; Goyard Paris Boeing 30 bag in gray; Monica Vinader Signature 18-karat yellow gold vermeil diamond bangle; Superior Organic Bee Venom Rich Face Treatment Cream
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Martyn Lawrence Bullard Interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard (above) has outfitted spaces for the likes of Tommy Hilfiger, Cher and Eva Mendes, and his work has graced the pages of numerous shelter magazines including Elle Décor, Architectural Digest and House Beautiful. The busy globe-trotter, who splits his time between his Hollywood Hills residence and a midcentury hideaway in the desert, recently designed the modern glam Hotel California in Santa Barbara and launched his own collection of wallpaper, furniture and indoor /outdoor fabrics. Get inspired with his favorite gift picks. » Monica Vinader Signature 18-karat yellow gold vermeil diamond bangle: “I love this piece
with its classically modern lines,” he says. “It’s so easy to wear both day and evening, with jeans or black tie. The piece is very versatile, making it the ideal sparkly gift.” $1,785; Saks Fifth Avenue, 9634 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.275.4211; monicavinader.com » Goyard Paris Boeing 30 bag: “A wonderfully versatile bag that is the perfect size for travel,” he says. “You can choose your favorite two colors to emblazon initials or a monogram on the side to add personalization and personality. This particular bag, however, is perfect with its genderless, timeless style.” $2,860; Goyard, 405 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.237.5745, goyard.com » Superior Organic Bee Venom Rich Face Treatment Cream: “The gift of beauty is always welcome, and this miracle cream is my favorite recent discovery,” he says. “The natural product is made in small batches to ensure its full potency is fresh and rich. It’s my personal favorite skin care product, especially as its formulation contains only the finest natural ingredients.” $198; Queen Bee Salon & Spa, 10182 1/2 Culver Blvd., Culver City, 310.204.2236, queenbeesalonspa.com
» Mad et Len Grand Potpourri Narcotic Tubereuse: “It’s today’s version of potpourri,” he says. “The beautifully packaged amber rocks come with a vial of ’narcotic tubereuse’ essence that can refresh when desired and fill your home with the exotic scent of heady floral with jasmine, orange and ambergris.” $550; Garde, 7418 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.424.4667, gardeshop.com » Tiffany & Co. Everyday Objects Ruler in sterling silver and American walnut: “The justreleased ruler from Tiffany & Co. is the perfect gift for a budding designer. This chic new addition to the Tiffany line is very smart, especially when engraved with a personal message or some wonderful piece of life’s advice.” $450; Tiffany & Co., 210 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.273.8880, tiffany.com » Farrow Swivel Bar Cart by Martyn Lawrence Bullard: “The bar cart has become one of the modern must-haves,” he says. “It’s not just a fashionable accessory, but also extremely useful. WHERE LOS ANGELES 17
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From pouring those evening cocktails or serving a party, [it’s] why I have designed my own version for Frontgate. The difference with my bar cart is that it has a swivel below, allowing the bottom tier to open, making the bar cart a full-on bar ... or it can even be used as a buffet server.” $1,299; frontgate.com
Heidi Merrick Designer Heidi Merrick (right), founder of an eponymous collection of clothing and home accessories, epitomizes California cool with designs spanning striped turtlenecks, velvet dresses, geometric tops, surfer-inspired tees and ikat floor pillows. The Silver Lake resident (whose dad is legendary surfboard shaper Al Merrick of Channel Island Surfboards in Santa Barbara) shares what she’s gifting this season,
including a slip-on sneaker and a surfboard shaped by her brother. » Apolis Indigo Wool Chore Jacket: “This is what I intend to get my husband,” she says. “The Apolis boys are the kings of being put together and understated.” $278; Alchemy Works, 826 E. 3rd St., downtown, 855.894.1559; apolisglobal.com » The Hammonds Sneaker by the Office of Angela Scott: “Angela [Scott] is a good friend of mine, and I love everything she makes,” Merrick says. “These are the updated version of her classic Hammonds shoe, which [shares a name with] one of my favorite local surf breaks from my hometown.” $195; The Office of Angela Scott, 7975 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.424.7796, theofficeofangelascott.com » Britt Merrick for H. Merrick 5’6” “Winter Gun” black surf-
» Hand-carved cruise boards:
board: “When in doubt, buy art,” she says. “My main thing is to buy either art or appliances for my husband so I can enjoy them, too. I’m telling you, nobody in the world would be sad to get this surfboard shaped by my brother.” Price upon request; H. Merrick of California, 115 W. 9th St., downtown, 310.424.5520, heidimerrick.com
“This is the best of Silver Lake’s eclectic style,” she says. “I walked in and didn’t hesitate a second. I saw the board, and I bought it. Could not be a cooler gift. Tiffany, the owner, told me they have one of the female forms coming out, and I’m going to buy it for my daughter for Christmas.” $165; Night Palm, 1724 Silver Lake Blvd., L.A., 213.699.9060, nightpalm.com » Botanica marinated olives and a bottle of natural wine: “The perfect hostess gift,” she says. “Seriously, anything in a jar you can buy that Botanica has made is going to make your life [and kitchen] so much tastier and chic. I live for their salsa verde. They love food and know their ingredients. I’ve learned so much from being friends with them.” Olives $12, wine from $17; Botanica
merrick and surfboards, Pura Soul Photography and Katie Durko. Previous page: bullard, Deborah Anderson. All other images this and previous spread are courtesy photos
Clockwise from left: Britt Merrick for H. Merrick surfboards; Apolis Indigo Wool Chore Jacket; The Hammonds Sneaker by the Office of Angela Scott. Opposite: Botanica Restaurant & Market
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Restaurant & Market, 1620 Silver Lake Blvd., L.A., 323.522.6106, botanicarestaurant.com » Gold Kurt slip dress: “Right now, everyone needs a slip dress, and I think for a gift you might as well double down and get it in velvet,” she says. “I made this dress inspired by a sweater I called my Kurt Cobain. This dress is a little more Courtney, but, whatever, Kurt’s the one with my heart.” $410; H. Merrick of California, 115 W. 9th St., downtown, 310.424.5520, heidimerrick.com
Margarita Kallas-Lee
Clockwise from above: Maison Louis Marie No.04 Bois de Balincourt; Baggu Basic Black Tote; Timbuk2 x Blue Bottle Coffee Weekender Travel Kit; NielsenMassey Orange Blossom Water
I just can’t get enough of,” she says. “The Bois de Balincourt scent is a perfect home scent that I could literally smell all day.” $34; Brooke Rodd, 1716 Ocean Park Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.664.1999, brookerodd.com » Timbuk2 x Blue Bottle Coffee Weekender Travel Kit: “It’s the perfect gift for a coffee drinker because it has all the necessities,” she says. “It’s great to take camping, or on picnics.” $95; bluebottlecoffee.com » Baggu Basic Black Tote: “I love Baggu,” she says. “It’s a great tote for on-the-go!” $180; baggu.com » Nielsen-Massey Orange Blossom Water: “These are my favorite extracts,” she says. “I would gift them to one of my friends who loves baking, because the orange blossom adds such a beautiful note of
flavor to any cake, pie, tart or cookie.” $7.50 for 2-ounce bottle and $12 for 4-ounce bottle; Sur La Table, 6333 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.954.9190; nielsenmassey.com » The Body Deli Melon Foaming Cleanser: “The Body Deli is hands down the best facial products; I only use their melon face wash,” she says. “Their products are made with real, raw ingredients. They’re based out of Palm Springs, but their website has all their products. I like to gift their kits because they have a little bit of everything.” $12; Alchemie Spa, 2021 Main St., Santa Monica, 310.310.8880; thebodydeli.com » KitchenAid Artisan Black Tie Limited Edition 5-Quart TiltHead Stand Mixer: “KitchenAid has this limited-edition line of gorgeous matte-black mixers,” she says. “I’m obsessed.” $999.99; kitchenaid.com
Kallas-lee, yasmin alishav. all other images courtesy photos
Latvian-born pastry chef Margarita Kallas-Lee (top left), the brainchild behind the dessert program at Scratch Restau-
rants including Scratch|Bar & Kitchen in Beverly Hills and Encino, Frankland’s Crab & Co. and Woodley Proper, snagged Zagat’s “30 Under 30” award in 2016 and was a semifinalist for Eater’s “Young Guns” that same year. The former runway model-turned-chef has also just debuted a concept ice-cream bar at the Montecito Inn (think triple-crème Camembert ice cream with sourdough breadcrumbs and wild honey and lavender sprinkles). From orange-blossom water ideal for baking to a basic black leather tote for travel, see what’s at the top of her gift list. » Maison Louis Marie No.04 Bois de Balincourt: “Maison Louis Marie makes the most incredibly scented candles that
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17-1086
Explore 5,000 years of history, culture, and art connected by ink.
This exhibition was developed and produced by the musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac in Paris.
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© musée du quai Branly — Jacques, photo Thomas Duval
KALLAS-LEE, YASMIN ALISHAV. ALL OTHER IMAGES COURTESY PHOTOS
Tickets on sale now at NHM.ORG
11/8/17 4:47 PM
TA BL E W I T H A
V IEW
With new downtown towers piercing the clouds and ocean vistas eternally alluring, ambitious local chefs are challenging established attitudes toward restaurants with a view. By ROGER GRODY
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A cocktail and octopus dish at 71Above. Opposite: The view from 71Above
noted media (2). Opposite: Frank wonho lee
I
n Los Angeles, As With most places in the world, restaurants with great views have rarely been known for delivering exceptional cuisine. But that is changing as quickly as the downtown skyline, where a pair of 71st-floor restaurants have re-energized high-rise dining. Serious view restaurants are popping up all over town, with memorable food now competing with views of the Hollywood Hills or Pacific Ocean. Dining at the top of skyscrapers in San Francisco, Chicago and New York is relatively common, but that has never been a tradition in L.A. When Wolfgang Puck opened his modern Chinese WP24 halfway up the RitzCarlton, Los Angeles tower in 2010, it was the first time in decades that serious cuisine had ascended that high. The real breakthrough, though, came last year with the opening of 71Above atop the U.S. Bank Tower, which, until recently, was the tallest building in town. 71Above’s modern design features a geometric honeycomb-like ceiling, contemporary lighting and curvilinear booths that face the windows (an advance deposit can guarantee a window table). There is a sense of formality here, but the setting is hardly the over-starched environment one might expect at these rarefied heights. 71Above offers a sophisticated prix-fixe format at relatively approachable prices: a two-course lunch menu at $35 and, at dinner, a three-course meal—there are a half-dozen choices for each course—priced at $75.
Additional courses may be added to create a more elaborate (and filling) tasting menu. A meal from chef Vartan Abgaryan, who once worked at New York’s legendary Lutèce, might begin with poached oysters presented with a light tarragon-Champagne cream, topped with uni and caviar, or a farm egg over crispy potatoes with chorizo. Those might be followed by a foie-gras terrine, an inventive pasta dish or octopus spiked with Korean gochujang. The third course could be caramelized sea scallops with chanterelles or a rib-eye with onion cream and mojo rojo. The U.S. Bank Tower just lost its first-inheight ranking to the new Wilshire Grand Center, which, thanks to a formidable spire, is now the tallest building west of Chicago. It is also home to a new 889-room InterContinental hotel with several view restaurants, most notably La Boucherie, at almost 1,000 feet above street level. There, a French-influenced steakhouse menu and sophisticated decor compete for attention with stunning downtown views framed by floor-to-ceiling windows. (Even the restrooms offer unexpectedly dramatic views.) A strong French accent permeates the appetizer page at La Boucherie, with dishes like stuffed frog legs, seared foie gras, ris de veau (sweetbreads) with chanterelles, and even veal kidneys, which are hard to find in Paris, let alone L.A. For entrées, dry-aged USDA prime beef takes center stage, along with game and fish. And for a nightcap—and
perhaps an order of uni-topped deviled eggs or s’mores—check out Spire 73 two floors above, which is reportedly the highest openair bar in the Western Hemisphere. With his global portfolio of restaurants and galaxy of Michelin stars, Jean-Georges Vongerichten is one of the most sought-after chefs in the world. The New York-based chef/ restaurateur recently arrived in Beverly Hills, introducing Jean-Georges Beverly Hills at the Waldorf Astoria, a sleek new hotel with interiors from Parisian designer Pierre-Yves Rochon. Those who crave views, however, ride the elevator to The Rooftop by JG, the chef’s more casual alfresco venue. The Rooftop’s menu, which is heavy on shareable snacks and creative cocktails, offers eggplant fritters with honey and softened Manchego cheese, tuna tartare and madai (sea bream) sashimi. Larger plates range from lobster burgers to rigatoni with basil-pistachio pesto. The decor features rich jade-green accents that mirror the landscape beyond, while seating options include umbrella-laden tables, a long mosaic bar and cushy outdoor furniture along an expansive fireplace recessed into a living green wall. The nearly 270-degree views, dominated by serene hillsides, are magical. For Angelenos of a certain age, the Chart House in Malibu was a reliable oceanfront dining spot—perfect for first dates and outof-town relatives—but the view was always more memorable than the cuisine. Thankfully, WHERE LOS ANGELES 23
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the Chart House was taken over by Mastro’s Ocean Club, which delivers the same Pacific views but serves far better (albeit pricier) food. Consider impressive platters from the raw bar and well-sourced fish, along with signature sides like lobster-studded mashed potatoes and Alaskan king crab black-truffle gnocchi. Relatively new to the South Bay is Sea Level Restaurant & Lounge, located at Shade Redondo Beach (a spinoff of chic Shade Hotel in downtown Manhattan Beach). The venue showcases soothing marina views that complement a menu featuring pork-belly baos and spicy tuna on crispy rice before moving on to deftly handled fish dishes such as pistachio-crusted cod or blackened salmon with parsnip puree and curried sweet-corn emulsion. Brunch is a true happening here, when seafood omelets, breakfast pizzas and fried chicken and waffles can be washed down with bloody marys or spiked lemonade.
Hidden in Terranea Resort, a romantic retreat perched on the picturesque Palos Verdes Peninsula, is Mar’sel, which offers spectacular views. But ocean vistas are not the only attractions at this lovely restaurant, where chef de cuisine Andrew Vaughan offers the daily catch of local fishermen with vegetables and herbs from the resort’s own garden. The results include starters like scallops with black-truffle polenta and tomato sofrito, and New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp (Vaughan previously worked with Emeril Lagasse in the Big Easy), as well as entrées such as roasted salmon with boniato and tomato-lime-brown-butter sauce. Set atop the hills 250 feet above Hollywood Boulevard, Yamashiro Hollywood provides a memorable experience on several levels, not the least of which are stunning views of Hollywood, with the downtown skyline looming in the distance. Yamashiro means “mountain palace” in Japanese, and the property is an
authentic replica of one near Kyoto, complete with an imported 600-year-old pagoda. The pan-Asian menu offers truffle-scented hamachi sashimi and duck-confit spring rolls followed by shoyu-glazed black cod or Sichuan rib-eye, while Pacific Rim cocktails enhance the mood and, by extension, the views. Another quintessential L.A. panorama— offering a splendid perspective of the entire metro area, from the Santa Monica Mountains to the sea—is found at the Restaurant at the Getty Center. Sunsets that rival the masterpieces in the building’s galleries set the backdrop for Saturday dinners. For less conventional views, consider Restaurant 917 at the Porsche Experience Center in Carson. After bread service that includes butter molded into miniature Porsche 911s, diners indulge in oysters shrouded in a liquid-nitrogen-generated cloud or Thai curried clams before tucking into a big burger or steak. The scenery includes a test track on which amateurs pay handsomely to take laps in a full-size 911 Turbo or other finely engineered Porsche products. Finally, if you have fond childhood memories of looking skyward from the end of an airport runway—practically close enough to incoming aircraft to see the expressions on the pilots’ faces—you will enjoy The Proud Bird. This recently overhauled restaurant, directly in the flight path of LAX, may never earn any Michelin stars, but the food-hall concept is pleasantly laid-back, with options like chicken and waffles, pizzas and smoked meats from Bludso’s, one of the city’s most revered names in barbecue. For those close-ups of approaching jumbo jets, be sure to grab a patio table.
Clockwise from top left: courtesy terranea resort; courtesy porsche experience center (2). next page: courtesy mastro’s ocean club
Clockwise from top left: Diners at Mar'sel at Terranea Resort; Restaurant 917 at the Porsche Experience Center; a seafood plate at Restaurant 917
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Welcome to the Neighborhood
(clockwise from top left): Wine & Design, meneSweet, The Perky Nerd, Phoebe Peacock, audrey * k boutique
This hip, retro neighborhood is truly in a world all its own. Filled with one-of-a-kind boutiques, vintage antiques, chic eateries, and something new around every corner, Magnolia Park also hosts Ladies and Gents Night Out the last Friday of every month for late night music, fun, and retail therapy.
Visit Magnolia Park Burbank
To find out more visit us online at www.visitmagnoliapark.com
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8 1 1 3
m e l r o s e
L O S
a v e n u e
A N G E L E S, C A L I F O R N I A
K R I ST E N S E N D U NO R D T R A N S I T PA R - S UC H PLEIN SUD THOMAS WYLDE CITIZENS OF HUMANITY 8 1 3 OT TO T R E D I C I Z A D I G & VO LTA I R E
Mastro’s Ocean Club
C U R R E NT / E L L I OT INHABIT B LU M A R I N E
EYE-OPENING MEALS 71Above U.S. Bank Tower, 633 W. 5th St., downtown, 213.712.2683 La Boucherie InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown, 900 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.688.7777 mar’sel Terranea Resort, 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, 310.265.2836
WWW. GLAMBOUTIQUE. COM
Mastro’s Ocean Club 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.454.4357 The Proud Bird 11022 Aviation Blvd., L.A., 310.670.3093 Restaurant 917 Porsche Experience Center, 19800 S. Main St., Carson, 310.527.0917 Restaurant at the Getty Center 1200 Getty Center Drive, L.A., 310.440.6810 The Rooftop by JG Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, 9850 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.860.6566 Sea Level Restaurant & Lounge Shade Redondo Beach, 655 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach, 310.921.8940 Spire 73 InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown, 900 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.688.7777 WP24 The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles 900 Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.743.8824
Sa 9: 9:
$1 Th
Yamashiro Hollywood 1999 N. Sycamore Ave., Hollywood, 323.466.5125
Fo
2
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LE
ICE
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December 14 thru January 7 Outdoor Ice Skating Rink
LEARN TO SKATE: $25 lessons every
Saturday, includes skate rental & 1Oam session 9:OOam - 9:25am kids (5yrs-15yrs) 9:25am - 9:5Oam adults (16yrs & older)
@ the corner of N Third St. and Orange Grove Ave. behind City Hall
Open daily 1Oam-1Opm, Friday and Saturday until 11:3Opm
$1O Admission Unlimited Skating (no - re-entry) + $6 Skate Rental + $8 Bobby/Tommy Skating Aid Rental Thursday Dec 14 - Opening Day Special $1O unlimited skating all day, FREE skate rental (Burbank Residents only)
For full session schedule and event information, please visit our website: www.DTNBUR.com
2O17-18
ICE RINK SEASON
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Ro
Win a Trip to
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Enter daily through Dec. 31 at wheretraveler.com/contest
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WESTWOOD PLAZA
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Jews for Jesus
LE CONTE AVENUE
University of California, Los Angeles LE CONTE AVENUE P
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HEALTH + BEAUTY SERVICES
11/8/17 4:45 PM
SHOPS DINING NIGHTLIFE ENTERTAINMENT Hollywood & Highland features the Dolby Theatre, home of the Academy Awards®, conveniently located on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. With world-class shopping, dining, and red carpet movie premieres, it’s the ultimate Hollywood experience.
Photo, Shawn Farrington
LOUIS VUITTON | MAC | SEPHORA PANDORA | VICTORIA’S SECRET FOREVER 21 | OHM NIGHTCLUB LUCKY STRIKE LIVE | DAVE & BUSTER’S TCL CHINESE THEATRES
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WHERE ABOUTS
arrington
3:03 PM
MARVIN BRAUDE BIKE TRAIL, PHOTO BY BROWN CANNON III/INTERSECTION PHOTOS
Los Angeles is the most populous county in the nation and among the most culturally diverse. Its 4,000 square miles encompass dozens of cities and more than 200 neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. The pages that follow will guide you through the most visited among them, pointing out starring attractions and uncovering hidden gems along the way.
CIT Y TOURS 34 38 42 46 50 54 56 58
Beverly Hills Santa Monica West Hollywood Hollywood Downtown Pasadena The Valley South Bay
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THE MANSIONS
/ RODEO DRIVE + GOLDEN TRIANGLE / THE INDUSTRY + THE ARTS / CENTURY CITY
BEVERLY HILLS It’s only 5 square miles, but Beverly Hills looms large in pop culture as a posh locale that’s home to some of the priciest mansions in L.A. County, not to mention the country’s most recognizable ZIP code. Rodeo Drive, perhaps the world’s most famous shopping street, offers virtually every luxury fashion brand.
THE MANSIONS The launch of Beverly Hills’ glamorous reputation dates to the early 20th century, when the opening of the Beverly Hills Hotel ushered in a frenzy of movie-star mansion-building in the hills north of Sunset Boulevard. Today, the population of 35,000 is more socioeconomically diverse than its depiction on TV and in movies might suggest. Nonetheless, the triumvirate of Beverly Hills, Holmby Hills and Bel-Air still attracts famous and fabulously wealthy residents. Hop on the Beverly Hills Trolley Tour, or book with Starline Tours or Star Track Tours to see notable homes in the ‘hood, along with other local landmarks packed into the city’s 5 square miles. Among the more storied and oft-filmed estates nestled in the hills is the 19th-century English Revivalstyle Greystone Mansion, whose graceful city-owned grounds are open for strolling.
RODEO DRIVE + GOLDEN TRIANGLE From Greystone, head west on Sunset Boulevard, then hang on to your wallet as you turn south onto Rodeo Drive. After passing through a tony residential neighborhood, you enter the shopping district known as the Golden Triangle, bounded by Santa Monica and Wilshire boulevards and Cañon Drive. Burberry, Balenciaga, Fendi and Gucci recently debuted new or renovated flagships on Rodeo, reminding shoppers that 90210 is still the most prestigious ZIP code in the States. Ascend the
Italian-esque side street to fineart destination Galerie Michael and Tiffany & Co., perched atop Two Rodeo. Pause for the quintessential Beverly Hills snapshot before continuing on to the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel (of Pretty Woman fame) at the south end of Rodeo Drive. Continuing west, pass Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Barneys New York, the reigning luxury retail titans along this stretch of Wilshire. At Santa Monica Boulevard, you hit the new Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, which boasts dining concepts by chef Jean-Georges
THE INDUSTRY + THE ARTS Beverly Hills isn’t all shopping sprees and gated estates: Talent agencies William Morris Endeavor and United Talent Agency are just two of the entertainment businesses based here. Rub shoulders with the powerlunchers at E. Baldi, La Scala or Wolfgang Puck’s legendary Spago on Cañon Drive. The city’s cultural treasure troves include the Paley Center for Media and the Samuel Goldwyn Theater at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, both of which hold screenings. Even more cultural programming can be found at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, which transformed the historic Beverly Hills Post Office into an entertainment destination. CENTURY CITY Heading west from Beverly Hills on Santa Monica Boulevard, you enter the 0.7-square-mile modern acropolis of Century
great find
BONJOUR, GOYARD Recently expanded beyond its shop in Neiman Marcus Beverly Hills, Goyard has a new flagship maison on Rodeo Drive. Behind its yellow façade await totes, trunks, cases and more sporting the brand’s signature Y motif, plus a second level with a VIP room and a workshop for the marquage, or personalization, of purchases. 405 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.237.5745, goyard.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: DALE BERMAN; COURTESY BEVERLY HILLS CONFERENCE AND VISITORS BUREAU; COURTESY GOYARD. OPPOSITE: MATT HARTMAN
Vongerichten, and beside it, the Beverly Hilton hotel, which rolls out 30,000 square feet of red carpet annually to host the Golden Globe Awards.
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NEW IN TOWN Bomane
Celebrity hairstylist Andrea Jaclyn and former pro boxer Sonny Henty are behind this new salon. 8668 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 424.777.0638
Reservoir L.A.
The cool multibrand boutique now shares space with Tom Dixon and Hayden at Platform. 8820 Washington Blvd., Suite 101, Culver City, 323.300.5309
Westfield Century City
The shopping center recently reopened after a $1 billion restoration, boasting new boutiques and the first West Coast Eataly. 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 310.277.3898
Storefronts along North Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Opposite, from left: Two Rodeo; a signpost at the intersection of luxury and commerce WHERE LOS ANGELES 35
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/ WESTWOOD VILLAGE / CULVER CITY
Platform in Culver City
City. ICM Partners and Creative Artists Agency are located here, as are a Fox Studios lot and countless legal, financial, entertainment and hospitality firms. But those outside the biz won’t be excluded. Past Avenue of the Stars, you hit the upscale Westfield Century City shopping center, which recently unveiled dozens of new boutiques and eateries after a dramatic redevelopment. Nearby on Constellation Boulevard, epicures are drawn to Tom Colicchio’s Craft and Hinoki & the Bird, the latter of which is in the residential complex the Century. (Candy Spelling claims the top two floors.) The Annenberg Space for Photography displays cutting-edge exhibits of digital and print photography.
UCLA A few miles northeast of Century City is the University of California, Los Angeles, one of the top public universities in the country. Visitors are welcome at several university attractions, including the Fowler Museum at UCLA and the outdoor Franklin D.
Murphy Sculpture Garden on the north campus, the planetarium on the south campus and the 7-acre Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Gardens. The free Hammer Museum is nearby and houses impressionist paintings, as well as cutting-edge contemporary exhibitions. Paid parking is available in UCLA lots and structures throughout the 419-acre campus.
WESTWOOD VILLAGE Just south of the campus, the pedestrian-friendly Westwood Village features independent shops and cafés among its Mediterranean Revival and art deco buildings, as well as two landmark movie theaters at Broxton and Weyburn avenues: the 1936 marquee-wrapped Bruin theater and the Fox theater across the street. Built circa 1931, the Fox is a favorite for movie premieres and thus is prime star-spotting territory. Another don’t-miss venue is the award-winning Geffen Playhouse, located on Le Conte Avenue in one of the oldest buildings in Westwood.
CULVER CITY Covering 5 square miles southeast of Westwood, Culver City boasts a thriving downtown with bars and restaurants including Korean-barbecue spot Hanjip and seasonal California restaurant the Wallace. The Kirk Douglas Theatre and the Ivy Substation, home to the Actors’ Gang, bookend the downtown area and stage live productions throughout the year. As you travel east on Washington Boulevard, don’t miss the Helms Bakery complex, which contains dozens of high-end furniture showrooms. Moving along Washington, the scene-y Arts District has more than 30 art galleries and exhibition spaces clustered along Washington and La Cienega boulevards. Near the intersection of Washington and National boulevards is the ultra-hip Platform lifestyle complex, plus a stop on the Expo Line, a Metro light rail that, thanks to a recent expansion, connects downtown L.A. and Santa Monica. Hollywood gets all the attention, but it’s Culver City whose city seal proclaims it “The Heart of Screenland.” In 1915, Ince/ Triangle Studios opened on Washington; in 1924, the site became Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios. Classics including Singin’ in the Rain and The Wizard of Oz would eventually be filmed on its movie lots. (News reports of the time indicate that the “Munchkins” partied hard during their stay at the Culver Hotel.) Today, Culver City’s screen culture is still going strong, and the site is home to Sony Pictures Studios, where such hits as Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! are taped. Experience Culver City’s screen heritage by taking the Sony Pictures Studio Tour.
WF O R BOLD I T E M S , S E E T H E W H E R E G U ID E . F O R A N E I G H B O R H O O D M A P, S E E PA G E 9 2 .
Will Rogers Memorial Park
insider tips
GREEN ACRES Between shopping sprees, take a breather in one of Beverly Hills’ pretty green spaces. Beverly Canon Gardens 241 N. Cañon Drive, 310.285.6830 Beverly Gardens Park North Santa Monica Boulevard and North Beverly Drive, 310.285.2537 Coldwater Canyon Park 1100 N. Beverly Drive, 310.285.6820 Greystone Mansion and Gardens 905 Loma Vista Drive, 310.285.6830 Roxbury Community Center and Memorial Park 471 S. Roxbury Drive, 310.285.6840 Virginia Robinson Gardens 1008 Elden Way, 310.550.2087 Will Rogers Memorial Park 9650 Sunset Blvd., beverlyhills.org/exploring
FROM LEFT: BENNY CHAN; COURTESY BEVERLY HILLS CONFERENCE & VISITORS BUREAU
UCLA
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The Ultimate Shopping Experience
SOUTH COAST PLAZA 250 BOUTIQUES, 30 RESTAURANTS AND SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS Apple Store · Aquazzura · Berluti · Bottega Veneta · Burberry Chanel · Christian Louboutin · Coach · COS · Dior · Dior Homme Dolce&Gabbana · Ermenegildo Zegna · Gianvito Rossi · Gucci John Lobb · John Varvatos · Kate Spade New York · Louis Vuitton Maje · Massimo Dutti · Max Mara · Rimowa · Saint Laurent Salvatore Ferragamo · Sandro · Stella McCartney · Stuart Weitzman The Webster · Tiffany & Co. · Tod’s · Valentino · Weekend Max Mara AnQi by House of An · The Capital Grille · Din Tai Fung Seasons 52 · Vaca · Water Grill Saks Fifth Avenue · Bloomingdale’s · Nordstrom · Macy’s partial listing
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THIRD STREET + THE PIER
/ MAIN STREET + MONTANA AVENUE / THE ARTS / MALIBU
SANTA MONICA THE ARTS Visitors can take in plays at Main Street’s Edgemar Center for the Arts, housed in an angular concrete structure designed by Frank Gehry. An even wider variety of entertainment is at the Broad Stage, Santa Monica College’s first-rate, 499-seat performing-arts, film, dance and theater venue. On Michigan Avenue, the Bergamot Station arts center— now a stop on the Expo Line— has emerged as a hub for L.A.’s creative community. It’s home to about 30 galleries and a café. THIRD STREET + THE PIER Third Street Promenade, three pedestrian-only blocks on 3rd Street between Broadway and Wilshire Boulevard, perpetually teems with people. Visitors can hit dozens of boutiques, watch movies at two cinemas and gawk at the myriad street artists. If they don’t refuel at the many eateries along the Promenade, visitors can venture to the surrounding blocks to The Independence or the Misfit and enjoy drinks at The Bungalow or the many pubs, such as Ye Olde King’s Head, that hint at Santa Monica’s large population of British expats. Anchoring the promenade at Broadway is Santa Monica Place, a beautiful open-air shopping center with Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, 80 boutiques, ArcLight Cinemas and the toplevel Dining Deck. Steps away is the new western terminus of the Metro Expo Line, which connects Santa Monica by light rail to downtown Los Angeles.
Santa Monica Pier, built in 1909, is at the end of Colorado Avenue and features Pacific Park, a mini amusement park with food stands and rides, including a solar-powered, LED-lit Ferris wheel.
MAIN STREET + MONTANA AVENUE Compared with the hustle and bustle of Third Street Promenade, Montana Avenue is downright tranquil. Between 6th and 17th streets are plenty of fashionable boutiques and beauty destinations, including Moondance, Clare V. and Malin +
Goetz. Father’s Office is known for its burgers, and Sweet Lady Jane is famous for its cakes. Just minutes south of downtown Santa Monica, Main Street exudes a beachy, upscale vibe. The long stretch between Pico Boulevard and Rose Avenue contains a number of galleries, pubs, coffeehouses and restaurants, plus shops such as Lost & Found and Planet Blue. The California Heritage Museum is in a transplanted Victorian-era home, as is the aptly named Victorian, adjacent to the museum, which features a cool downstairs speakeasy, Basement Tavern.
MALIBU A few miles north of Santa Monica on Pacific Coast Highway is Malibu. Formerly known as Rancho Malibu, Malibu’s land was once so coveted that May K. Rindge, who took ownership of it in 1905 after the death of her scion husband, used armed guards to defend it from trespassers. In the 1920s, Rindge’s hefty legal bills, racked up from fighting developers, forced her to invite stars to live in Malibu Colony, and the legacy of Malibu as celebrityhome central continues today.
great find
YOU GLOW, GIRL London-born brand Pixi by Petra Strand is sprinkling its beauty dust on Venice, where it recently opened its first U.S. flagship store. The full Pixi line (including its beauty-editor-beloved Glow Tonic) is available in the front of the mint-and-pink boutique, and, in the back, the company’s first Glow Spa offers Pixi-powered facials. 1308 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 424.744.8879, pixibeauty.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY SANTA MONICA PLACE; DALE BERMAN; COURTESY PIXI BEAUTY. OPPOSITE: BROWN CANNON III/INTERSECTION PHOTOS
In the 1800s, orator Tom Fitch called Santa Monica “the Zenith City by the Sunset Sea.” The 21st-century version of Santa Monica fulfills its early promise, with a bustling downtown and beach that attract millions of visitors per year. Pacific Coast Highway connects SaMo with draws such as Malibu and Marina del Rey.
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NEW IN TOWN Dialogue
You’ll need a ticket to dine at acclaimed chef Dave Beran’s 18-seat tasting-menu restaurant. 1315 Third Street Promenade, second floor, Santa Monica, dialoguerestaurant.com
Goop Lab
Gwyneth Paltrow’s lofty modern-lifestyle brand opens its first brickand-mortar store at the Brentwood Country Mart. 225 26th St., Suite 37, Santa Monica, 310.260.4072
Uovo
This casual pasta bar from a Sugarfish cofounder sources its handmade pasta from Bologna, Italy. 1320 2nd St., Suite A, Santa Monica, 310.425.0064
Santa Monica State Beach. Opposite, from left: Santa Monica Place’s Dining Deck; Abbot Kinney Boulevard WHERE LOS ANGELES 39
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/ VENICE / BRENTWOOD / MARINA DEL REY
The Getty Villa
Many of Malibu’s best destinations are visible from PCH, including renowned restaurants with ocean views, from the casual (Malibu Seafood) to the upscale (Nobu Malibu). Adjacent to the Malibu Lagoon and Bird Sanctuary, the Adamson House is filled with historic tile. The celebrity-frequented Malibu Country Mart serves as the area’s town square. Together with the adjacent Malibu Village and Malibu Lumber Yard, there are plenty of shops and restaurants for whiling away an afternoon. Inland, nearing Calabasas, is wine country, where you can sample the local vino at tasting rooms such as Malibu Wines.
TOPANGA + PACIFIC PALISADES In the 1960s, hippies and musicians such as Neil Young hid out in idyllic Topanga, accessible by Topanga Canyon Boulevard from Pacific Coast Highway. Removed from urban activity, it retains its bohemian vibe and independently owned businesses. Hiking
trails allow visitors to bask in Topanga’s woodsy beauty, and restaurants such as Inn of the Seventh Ray accommodate creekside dining. There’s more than initially meets the eye in seemingly sleepy, family-friendly Pacific Palisades, south of Topanga on PCH and accessed from Temescal Canyon Road. Hikers love the shady trails in Temescal Gateway Park, and cafés and upscale mom-and-pop shops can be found between Via de la Paz and Monument Street near Sunset Boulevard. The Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine on Sunset is a 10-acre oasis with a lush garden and koi- and swan-filled lake. The crown jewel of the Palisades is the Getty Villa. Styled as a Julius Caesar-era villa, it’s filled with Greco-Roman antiquities.
VENICE Abbot Kinney won in a coin toss the land that would become Venice. He sought to develop it as an American version of the Italian city; the canals are still
there, lined with multimilliondollar bungalows. His namesake Abbot Kinney Boulevard is Venice’s coolest section, where Gjelina, Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea and boutiques such as Bazar, Heist and Huset are the main attractions. Rose Avenue is also coming up, thanks to the emergence of hot restaurants such as reborn Rose Café-Restaurant and Café Gratitude, plus a smattering of hip shops including Parachute and new Monrow. Visitors strolling Ocean Front Walk get an eyeful, what with performers, vendors and Muscle Beach bodybuilders.
BRENTWOOD Marilyn Monroe once called this affluent enclave northeast of Santa Monica home; it remains a favorite celebrity stomping ground. San Vicente Boulevard functions as the neighborhood’s main street, with copious independent shops, bakeries, cafés and restaurants. The petite Brentwood Country Mart, a charming open-air shopping center built in 1948, keeps retail offerings upscale. The area’s biggest draw is the Getty Center, the hilltop museum that boasts J. Paul Getty’s spectacular art collection and a beautiful central garden. MARINA DEL REY Marina del Rey’s main attraction is the marina, the largest man-made small-craft harbor in the world. Restaurants such as Cast & Plow and Cafe del Rey are positioned to take advantage of the views, and at the New England-style Fisherman’s Village, boat-rental and cruise companies such as Hornblower offer visitors assorted ways to get out on the water.
WF O R BOLD I T E M S , S E E T H E W H E R E G U I D E . F O R N E I G H B O R H O O D M A P S , S E E PA G E 9 2 .
Wedding bands at Love Adorned
insider tips
BEACH & BLING Find that special sparkle at these Santa Monica jewelry stores. 23rd Street Jewelers 2319 Wilshire Blvd., 310.828.0833 Broken English Brentwood Country Mart, 225 26th St., Suite 17, 310.458.2724 Chan Luu Santa Monica Place, 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 1890, 424.313.8505 Dogeared 2909 Main St., 310.846.4444 Ele Keats Jewelry 1028 Montana Ave., 310.458.1888 Love Adorned 2923 Main St., 310.450.2227 Moondance 1530 Montana Ave., 310.395.5516 Pippa Small Jewellery Brentwood Country Mart, 225 26th St., Suite 19, 310.260.9222
FROM LEFT: COURTESY GETTY VILLA; COURTESY LOVE ADORNED
TOPANGA + PACIFIC PALISADES
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MainStr
A WORLD AWAY FROM THE ORDINARY, A BLOCK AWAY FROM THE BEACH The Happiest Hour on Main: join over 20 Main Street restaurants and bars for their featured Happy Hour deals up and down the street! 212 Pier Dolcenero Gelato Bike Shop Zumanity Bombshell Salon Circle Bar The Closet Trading Company Axiom Contemporary Ambiance Hair Studio Finn McCool’s KOKO One Life Natural Foods Accents Giant of Santa Monica 31Ten Dogtown Coffee Bareburger Mac 911 Bumble Bee Shoes Deluxe Nail Bar and Spa Groundwork Coffee Aaron Cleaners Angel City Books Amelia’s The Basement Anthony Schmitt Designs Beyond O2-Waterhouse Arts and Letters Ricks Tavern on Main Lost & Found Leon Max Miakel Bishay Salon Main Street Sunday Farmers Market Fitness
Natures Grooming & Boutique
LA Urban Pebbles
Nails & Spa Duganne Ateliers Ashland Hill Crossfit Santa Monica Bank
Greens Up
Hinterland
Santa Monica Beach Nail Spa
Aussie Pie Kitchen
Buffalo Exchange
OneWest T-Mobile California
Basement Tavern
Enterprise Fish Co.
2640 Main Street 310 396 2469 basementtavern.com
174 Kinney Street 310 392 8366 enterprisefishco.com
Heritage Museum Bubble Beach Laundry Alchemie Spa Framm & Co. La Vecchia Cucina Max Muscle Hollywood
Buster Shoe Repair
Ben & Jerrys
Hollywood Smoke Organic Nails & Spa Studio Brick + Mortar Bike Attack Electric Bryn Walker Eyes On Main hiptique Lorraine Colour Bar Bulletproof Coffee Edgemar Center for the Arts Clouds Art Luna Salon Chinois On Main Arts & Letters Urth Caffe
Main Street Bagels
Circuit Works Santa
Monica Dove Hair Design Fleurs Du Jour Holy Guacamole Manchego Thai Vegan Kyle Mathis Salon Stansbury Collection The Famous Enterprise Fish Co SM The Victorian Trendy Sunglasses Main Attraction Nails & Spa Dhaba Cuisine of India Books and Cookies Lula Tim Clarke ZJ Boarding House 3 Twins Ice Cream Sea Shore Motel Pinkies Nail Spa Sunny Blue Novel Café Blossom Love Adorned Mindfulnest Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Peet’s Muji Oeste Sisters & Gifts Glassware The Galley Fedora Primo Samosa House The Birdcage Pink Elephant
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La Vecchia Cucina 2654 Main Street 310 399 7979 lavecchiacucina.com
FOOD & DRINK BIKES SERVICES GYMS BOUTIQUES BEAUTY HOME & MORE EVENTS | MAINopoly | SOULstice Holiday Tree Lighting
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SUNSET STRIP
/ SUNSET PLAZA / MELROSE AVENUE / WEST HOLLYWOOD DESIGN DISTRICT
WEST HOLLYWOOD
SUNSET STRIP After dark, this iconic strip of Sunset Boulevard between Doheny Drive and Crescent Heights Boulevard becomes one of the hottest stretches of asphalt in L.A. County. The club scene here rocks with legendary establishments like the Roxy, the Whisky a Go Go and the Viper Room, which have a long history of hosting performances by rock ‘n’ roll’s finest. Newer nightclubs include Rock & Reilly’s and 1 OAK. The Comedy Store continues to showcase leading names and emerging stars in stand-up, and restaurants such as Estrella and BOA Steakhouse offer upscale fare. During the day, boutiques such as beloved Book Soup draw traffic. Hotels are an integral part of the Sunset Strip scene. Chateau Marmont, a glorious and notorious celebrity hangout throughout the decades, remains a discreet local getaway. At the Sunset Tower Hotel, Bugsy Siegel’s former suite has been converted
into the Tower Bar. And across the street, the property once known as “Riot Hyatt,” thanks to overzealous guests like Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones and Guns N’ Roses, is now the chic Andaz West Hollywood.
SUNSET PLAZA Sunset Plaza, between La Cienega and San Vicente boulevards on Sunset Boulevard, is a collection of tony shops and bistros with an international flavor and free parking—a novelty in this neighborhood. This is the city’s Euro Zone, where you’re apt to hear more French and Italian
than Valley Girl. For up-to-theminute fashion, check out Wildfox, Nicole Miller, Zadig & Voltaire or either of the two H. Lorenzo shops. Pamper yourself with a facial at Ole Henriksen Face/Body Spa, a blowout at Drybar or a makeover at Blushington. Then, refuel at Obicà Mozzarella Bar.
MELROSE AVENUE Melrose Avenue has become virtually synonymous with trendiness, and new expressions in fashion, art and food continue to percolate up and down this street that has mul-
tiple personalities. One part of Melrose, east of Fairfax Avenue, has a mix of indie boutiques, cafés, tattoo parlors and vintage shops. Stores such as Wasteland have wild facades and vibrant signage that add energy to the scene. Farther west, Melrose becomes très sophistiqué, showcasing upscale tastes at Assembly, Kelly Wearstler and Vivienne Westwood. Just off Melrose is the fashionable three-block stretch of Melrose Place, where Bentleys line up at chic Nine Zero One salon and cutting-edge boutiques such as Irene Neuwirth, Isabel Marant and the Apartment by the Line.
WEST HOLLYWOOD DESIGN DISTRICT Melrose Avenue’s flourishing art, fashion and design district runs along the pedestrianfriendly retail corridors of Melrose and Beverly and Robertson boulevards. Among its offerings are a Helmut Lang flagship and RH: The Gallery on Melrose Avenue. The district’s hub is the Pacific Design Center complex—monolithic blue, green and red buildings designed by celebrated architect Cesar
great find
THE THRILLS ARE REAL Near the Grove, a virtual world filled with thrills awaits at the flagship Imax VR Experience Centre, which combines VR headset technology, 360-degree sound, sophisticated room tracking and content from top filmmakers and game producers to create immersive, fiveto 15-minute single and multiplayer experiences. Suit up and see the future. 157 S. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.452.4081, imaxvr.imax.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: EDWIN SANTIAGO; COURTESY OLE HENRIKSEN; “THE WALK,” COURTESY IMAX. OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN
For a municipality measuring less than 2 square miles and with fewer than 35,000 residents, West Hollywood wields enormous influence over the L.A. lifestyle. With a number of world-class art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, nightclubs and theaters, it’s a frequent destination for locals and tourists alike.
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New In Town Fred Segal
The iconic retailer has a new global flagship that honors its heritage while ushering the brand into a new era. 8500 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.432.0560
Petite Taqueria
The H.Wood Group is behind this upscale new taco entry. 755 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.855.7223
Platt Boutique Jewelry & The Kit Vintage
These two celebfavored brands have joined forces for the ultimate vintage shopping destination. 7427 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.746.5788
The Grove. Opposite, from left: Robertson Boulevard; Ole Henriksen Face/Body Spa WHERE LOS ANGELES 43
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/ ROBERTSON BOULEVARD / FAIRFAX + MID-WILSHIRE
The Petersen Automotive Museum
Pelli—which houses more than 130 showrooms catering to professional designers and luxury-home owners and contains a satellite of downtown’s Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and a stylish Wolfgang Puck eatery, Red Seven.
BEVERLY + WEST 3RD Beverly Boulevard and West 3rd Street, major east-west streets running through West Hollywood, are filled with restaurants, design showrooms and boutiques from some of the hottest up-and-coming clothing and accessories designers. The two streets bracket the landmark eight-level Beverly Center, which is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation. Bloomingdale’s, Fendi, Gucci and Jimmy Choo boutiques are among the center’s more than 160 establishments. On West 3rd Street east of Beverly Center, you’ll find favorite boutiques such as OK for design-oriented gifts, Pyrrha for handcrafted jewelry and Wittmore for contemporary
menswear. Great dining options include Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo’s seafood spot, Son of a Gun, and Vic Casanova’s Italian restaurant Gusto. On Beverly Boulevard, you can shop for high-end home decor and accessories at Garde and fragrances at Eric Buterbaugh Florals.
ROBERTSON BOULEVARD Robertson Boulevard is no longer a paparazzi magnet, but it’s still home to shops that appeal to the modish set. Hit Chaser for vintage-inspired T-shirts, Peri.A for trend-driven looks and Kitross and Kitross Kids for L.A.-inspired gifts. A Chanel concept store and edgy multibrand boutique Curve illustrate the difference between Robertson Boulevard and more staid Rodeo Drive. For a breather between boutique-hopping, consider a cocktail with crab cakes on the picket-fenced patio of Ivy restaurant, legendary for its celebrity clientele. The District by Hannah An and Cecconi’s, popular for power lunches, are just off Robertson.
FAIRFAX + MID-WILSHIRE L.A.’s Fairfax District and neighboring Mid-Wilshire are among the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in the Mid-City/West Hollywood area. At Fairfax Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard is the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), a renowned facility with more than 100,000 works dating from the ancient period to today. Adjacent to LACMA is the famous La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, where the ice age comes alive. Additional venues on this Museum Row include the newly renovated Petersen Automotive Museum and the Craft & Folk Art Museum. South of the museums is a neighborhood known as Little Ethiopia, where traditional restaurants are located. To the museums’ east is the burgeoning District La Brea, a walkable stretch filled with dining spots like Odys + Penelope and La Brea Bakery and hip boutiques including American Rag Cie. One of the Fairfax District’s anchors is the Original Farmers Market, established in 1934, with more than 100 produce stalls, shops and eateries. There are spots to satisfy virtually any craving, including a wine bar, a taqueria and a stand with authentic Louisiana gumbo. Adjacent and connected by a vintage trolley is The Grove, an outdoor, pedestrianonly shopping center. The Grove has the character of an oldfashioned village square, with stained-glass streetlamps and a central fountain. Nordstrom, a movie theater and stores such as American Girl Place, Apple and Elizabeth and James are joined by myriad restaurants including new 189 by Dominique Ansel (inventor of the Cronut).
WFOR BOLD ITEMS, SEE THE WHERE GUIDE. FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS, SEE PAGES 92-93.
The Peppermint Club
insider tips
FACE THE MUSIC Hear live tunes around West Hollywood at these rocking venues— from the iconic to the brand-new. El Rey Theatre 5515 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.936.6400 Kibitz Room 419 N. Fairfax Ave., West Hollywood, 323.651.2030 Largo at the Coronet 366 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.855.0350 The Peppermint Club 8713 Beverly Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.335.0575 The Roxy Theatre 9009 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.9457 The Troubadour 9081 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.276.1158 The Viper Room 8852 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.358.1881 Whisky a Go Go 8901 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.652.4202
FROM LEFT: MATT HARTMAN; ELIZABETH DANIELS
BEVERLY + WEST 3RD
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Time-tested for 83 years and counting. Since 1934, The Original Farmers Market has been L . A .’s favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. This living time capsule of Los Angeles history and culture is home to over 100 artisan grocers, eclectic shops and world-class eateries. No wonder it endures as one of L.A.’s favorite places to grab a bite, find the perfect souvenir and make a memory. Open daily.
6333 W. THIRD ST. • LOS ANGELES 323.933.9211 • FARMERSMARKETLA.COM #FARMERSMARKETLA Insta
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hollywood + Highland
/ showtime / walk of fame / museums, hollywood-style / around vine
hollywood “Hollywood is a state of mind” was a popular refrain when this legendary area of Los Angeles experienced a decline not long ago. But with hot new boutiques, restaurants, hotels and condos sprouting up, it has re-emerged as a bona fide destination, where throngs of international visitors mingle with colorful locals.
Hollywood + Highland Hollywood & Highland has been a catalyst for the rebirth of Hollywood Boulevard. Its Dolby Theatre is the home of the annual Academy Awards, and the central Babylon Court frames views of the iconic Hollywood sign (built in 1923 to advertise a housing development, the 45-foot-high letters originally read “Hollywoodland”). Other draws include Ohm nightclub, dining spots and shops such as Sweet! candy store and Louis Vuitton. Next door to Hollywood & Highland is the TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre), famous for its celebrity hand- and footprints embedded in the concrete out front. Showtime Just across the street from Hollywood & Highland is the ornate, lavishly illuminated El Capitan Theatre. Masterfully restored by Disney, it offers special presentations of the
studio’s releases, combined with performances using an antique Wurlitzer pipe organ and children-pleasing stage shows. Jimmy Kimmel Live! tapes in an ABC studio next door. The Egyptian Theatre— built in 1922 around the time that King Tut’s tomb was discovered—screens eclectic artsy and classic fare. The landmark Pantages Theatre regularly stages megahit musicals (such as The Book of Mormon and Hamilton), and the Hollywood Palladium has a rich history of showcasing top-notch musicians.
Walk of Fame The sidewalks along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard (La Brea Avenue to Gower Street) and three blocks of Vine Street (Yucca Street to Sunset Boulevard) are inlaid with the legendary brass-and-terrazzo stars honoring celebrities from the entertainment industry. More than 2,400 stars are enshrined beneath tourists’ feet, but the roster is not without its quirks— Pee-wee Herman has a star, but Clint Eastwood doesn’t. Marilyn Monroe’s star is steps from Hollywood & Highland, and John Lennon’s is in front of
Museums, Hollywood-style Hollywood has museums, but don’t expect to encounter Picasso or Monet. Next to TCL Chinese Theatre is Madame Tussauds Hollywood, filled with more than 100 wax figures ranging from legends like Clark Gable to contemporary stars including Taylor Swift and Jason Derulo. You can ponder zany accomplishments at the Guinness World Record Museum, while the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium offers bizarre exhibitions. Movie buffs head to the Hollywood Museum in the historic Max Factor Building, which displays 10,000 artifacts showcasing 100 years of showbiz history, including Indiana Jones’ whip and the honeymoon dress worn by Marilyn Monroe after she married Joe DiMaggio. Around Vine The storied intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, the epicenter of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, boasted a large
great find
A TOAST TO THE LADIES Featuring nearly 200 organic, biodynamic and natural wines, Silver Lake wine boutique Vinovore offers another special selling point—it celebrates female winemakers. Gift your bestie (or yourself) with a Beast Box, filled with wine and curated items like rosegold wine openers, retro toys, Navajo-style blankets and ready-to-fill canteens. 616 N. Hoover St., L.A., 323.363.7484, vino-vore.com
clockwise from top left: edwin Santiago; matt hartman; White Oak Communications. opposite: edwin santiago
the Capitol Records Building, the landmark structure designed to resemble a stack of records.
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New In Town Creatures of Comfort
Jade Lai’s playful, celebrity-beloved brand returns to its L.A. roots with a new Silver Lake shop. 3902 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.486.7978
Sunset & Vinyl
This intimate new ‘70s-themed cocktail bar—decked out with velvet furniture and vinyl records played on a vintage phonograph— is hidden above Hollywood’s 800 Degrees pizzeria. 1521 Vine St., L.A., 424.646.3375
We Have Noodles The Smorgasburg vendor serves Asian street-style dishes like pho and ramen in Silver Lake at its first brick-and-mortar restaurant. 3827 W. Sunset Blvd., Suite C, L.A., wehavenoodlesla.com
Hollywood Pantages Theatre. Opposite, from left: Hollywood & Highland; an exhibit at the Hollywood Museum
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/ los feliz + silver lake / griffith park
The Autry Museum of the American West in Griffith Park
concentration of entertainmentindustry companies in the 1920s. It’s a different Hollywood today, but the magic of this location endures in the soaring W Hollywood Hotel & Residences and its Delphine brasserie. A Metro station is integrated into the hotel; Hollywood is particularly well served by mass transit. Across the street is boutique hotel the Redbury and its stylish Middle Eastern restaurant, Cleo, and bar, the Library. Sunset Boulevard and Vine is in transition, but dance clubs and eateries give this corner plenty of character. Serious cinephiles catch their flicks at ArcLight Cinemas, where it’s easy to spot a celeb. Close by is Amoeba Music, where music fans and collectors browse the aisles through 31,000 square feet of space packed with rare vinyl records, CDs and memorabilia. A couple of blocks west is the stylish minicomplex Space 15 Twenty, catering to shoppers well into the evening. The center is anchored by a supersize Urban Outfitters and complemented by cool boutiques.
Night crawling The revival of Hollywood has only enhanced its nightlife, and a lively bar-and-club scene permeates the district. On and around Hollywood Boulevard, you can party under the guise of literary advancement at library-themed the Study Hollywood, drink and dine at Houston Hospitality hot spot No Vacancy, and attempt to get past the velvet ropes at nightclubs like Playhouse and Project Club LA. Cahuenga Boulevard also is home to dozens of clubs and eateries, including chef Brendan Collins’ excellent Birch. Quintessentially L.A. but a galaxy removed from Hollywood Boulevard is the Hollywood Bowl, the largest outdoor amphitheater in the U.S., where the Los Angeles Philharmonic takes up residence from June to September. Picnicking under the stars here is among the most memorable experiences in L.A. Los Feliz + Silver Lake These neighborhoods are among the hippest in the county (and perhaps the country). Vermont Avenue, the main drag in Los
Feliz, presents a collection of shops and restaurants that range from bohemian to chic. Skylight Books and 24/7 diner Fred 62 are popular hangouts. Lounges such as Rockwell represent the neighborhood’s increasing sophistication. Nearby, a stretch of Hollywood Boulevard houses cult-favorite gift shop/gallery Soap Plant/Wacko and Bar Covell, and Barnsdall Art Park offers recreational opportunities including tours of Frank Lloyd Wright’s recently restored Hollyhock House. At Sunset Junction, where Sunset and Santa Monica boulevards intersect, Los Feliz transitions into Silver Lake. Foodies hang at casual Forage or the Cheese Store of Silverlake, while aspiring screenwriters hammer at their laptops and sip lattes at Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea. Farther east on Sunset Boulevard, cool beach gear at Mollusk Surf Shop and chic handbags at the Clare V. flagship beckon.
Griffith Park Among the largest urban parks in America, Griffith Park is an ideal place to hike, take a train ride, picnic, golf and more. The Charlie Turner Trailhead begins at Griffith Observatory, one of the great planetariums in the world and a frequent film location. The hike up Mount Hollywood provides views of the Hollywood sign, and the Greek Theatre, a 5,700-seat amphitheater, is a legendary music venue. Also here are the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens and the Western-heritage-oriented Autry Museum of the American West, both accessible from the Ventura (SR 134) or Golden State (I-5) freeways.
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Works by Anthony James at There-There
insider tips
art forms Hollywood houses several art galleries displaying boundary-pushing pieces by innovative artists. Gavlak 1034 N. Highland Ave., 323.467.5700 Hannah Hoffman Gallery 1010 Highland Ave., 323.450.9106 Kohn Gallery 1227 N. Highland Ave., 323.461.3311 La-La Land Gallery 6450 Santa Monica Blvd., 323.464.9964 LAXART 7000 Santa Monica Blvd., 323.871.4140 Los Angeles Contemporary Exhibitions 6522 Hollywood Blvd., 323.957.1777 Regen Projects 6750 Santa Monica Blvd., 310.276.5424 There-There Merrick Building, 4859 Fountain Ave., 323.741.8097
from left: courtesy the Autry; sean deckert
night crawling
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©2017 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 17-ADV-22905
HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s17) ©2017 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. 17-ADV-22905
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UNION STATION
/ GRAND AVENUE / BUNKER HILL / OLVERA STREET / HISTORIC DISTRICTS
DOWNTOWN With new restaurants and shops opening daily, downtown Los Angeles could not be hotter. Historic art deco structures share the streetscape with glass-clad towers, and even movie stars are snapping up lofts in century-old buildings. The arts scene roars to life here, where the laid-back image of L.A. hardly applies.
UNION STATION Union Station was the last of the grand railroad terminals built in the U.S. Its importance faded as the automobile began to dominate life in L.A., but the 77-yearold station has staged a comeback, thanks to a renovation and downtown’s new energy. From the station—the hub of the Metro system—you can board the Red Line to Hollywood and the San Fernando Valley or connect to the Blue Line to Long Beach or the Expo Line to Santa Monica. The Gold Line runs to Pasadena. Nonstop bus service to LAX is available 24/7. Metrolink commuter trains connect distant suburbs, and Amtrak trains offer coastal journeys. GRAND AVENUE The heart of L.A.’s performingarts scene and the site of its most dramatic architecture, Grand Avenue is beginning to live up to its name. On Bunker Hill, once filled with Victorian mansions, four venues make up a
formidable collection of stages at the Music Center. The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is home to L.A. Opera, and the Ahmanson Theatre and the Mark Taper Forum host theatrical productions. The flashiest venue is architect Frank Gehry’s lauded Walt Disney Concert Hall, winter home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, led by its vivacious music director, Gustavo Dudamel. Also housed at Disney Hall is REDCAT, which offers visual, performing and multimedia arts programming. After a show, take a stroll through the 12-acre Grand Park,
between Grand Avenue and Hill Street and 1st and Temple streets.
BUNKER HILL Steps from the Ahmanson is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, designed by Spanish architect José Rafael Moneo. A short walk south on Grand is the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), and across from it is The Broad museum, built by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad. Both sites house premier collections of contemporary art. The Omni Hotel and California Plaza are adjacent to MOCA.
OLVERA STREET The origin of the city of Los Angeles, dating back to 1781, is El Pueblo de Los Angeles, a collection of 27 buildings along festive pedestrian concourse Olvera Street. The city’s oldest building, Avila Adobe (circa 1818), is here, along with Mexican restaurants, mariachi bands and merchants offering arts and crafts. A few blocks away is the city’s oldest restaurant, Philippe the Original (1908), where a cup of joe is just 49 cents. HISTORIC DISTRICTS Undergoing a renaissance is the Broadway Theatre District, home to once-opulent movie palaces. Several, such as the United Artists theater (now the stylish Theatre at Ace Hotel),
great find
COLLECTION OF COOL Downtown’s mixed-use complex Row DTLA is a 30-acre urban enclave that’s home to a growing collection of cool-kid tenants including womenswear store dRA, gift shop Poketo, modern-design mecca A+R and jeweler Vrai & Oro (designer of the earrings pictured left). Sundays, outdoor food hall Smorgasburg pulsates with pop-up eats and creative vendors. 777 Alameda St., downtown, rowdtla.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: IWAN BAAN; DALE BERMAN; COURTESY VRAI & ORO. OPPOSITE: DALE BERMAN
Angels Flight, a vintage funicular (seen in La La Land) that climbs to California Plaza from Hill Street below, reopened last year after repairs. Farther down Grand, at 5th Street, the Bunker Hill Steps rise five stories at the U.S. Bank Tower, site of the OUE Skyspace L.A. attraction. Across the street is the art deco-style Central Library.
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New In Town COS
H&M’s upscale, London-based sibling brings its minimalist fashion to the historic Olympic Theatre. 313 W. 8th St., downtown, 213.271.2716
Cosa Buona
This Echo Park pizzeria from Alimento’s Zach Pollack has already attracted a following for its mozzarella sticks and leopard-spotted pepperoni pizzas. 2100 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 213.908.5211
ICA LA
The Santa Monica Museum of Art has a new name, identity and DTLA location— a renovated industrial building—where you’ll find contemporary works of art. 1717 E. 7th St., downtown, 213.928.0833
Grand Park. Opposite, from left: The Broad museum; Mark Taper Forum at the Music Center
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/ CHINATOWN / LITTLE TOKYO / L.A. LIVE / EXPOSITION PARK the sleek Japanese American National Museum. The Geffen Contemporary, a branch of MOCA, is next door. At 2nd and Main streets is the former St. Vibiana cathedral, now home to stylish Redbird restaurant. To Little Tokyo’s east is the Arts District, which boasts buzzy shops and markets; galleries including Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles; a bevy of craft breweries; and such lauded restaurants as The Factory Kitchen, Officine Brera and Bestia.
Row DTLA lifestyle complex, near the Arts District
have been revived or restored to their original grandeur. Cool shops such as Acne Studios and BNKR lend cachet to the area. The Bradbury Building, constructed in 1893 in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, was featured in the film Blade Runner. Spring Street from 4th to 7th streets is a rapidly awakening area once referred to as the “Wall Street of the West.” Steps from this historic district is a row of trendy bars on 6th Street (between Main and Los Angeles streets) that includes the Varnish.
SHOPPING DISTRICTS Downtown’s heritage as a mercantile center is still evident in its historic shopping districts. The Jewelry District draws shoppers looking for deals on diamonds; in the neighboring Fashion District, you can find designer clothing items. At Santee Alley, an open-air bargain bazaar, designer trends breed low-priced knockoffs. The Flower District offers blooms at wholesale prices. For an awesome mix of old-school
produce vendors and lunch counters and new, upscale specialty stalls, Grand Central Market, near the foot of Angels Flight, is the place to go. And the Figat7th shopping center is home to trendy boutiques and eateries.
CHINATOWN Chinatown is a great destination for sampling dim sum, dining at foodie-favorite spots like Howlin’ Ray’s and Baohaus or browsing for clothing, tea or home goods. Cultural highlights include the ornate Thien Hau Temple. Pedestrian-friendly Chung King Road and Gin Ling Way are home to hip galleries; Broadway is lined with boutiques. Dodger Stadium is a short drive away, as is San Antonio Winery, which offers tours and tastings. LITTLE TOKYO Little Tokyo’s bar scene is popping, and dining options range from traditional sushi at Japanese Village Plaza to seasonal small plates at Baldoria. Just a few steps down 1st Street is
L.A. LIVE The $2.5 billion L.A. Live project is home to Staples Center, as well as the Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers and Kings, and it hosts top pop acts, as does Microsoft Theater, which boasts state-ofthe-art acoustics. The Grammy Museum honors myriad music genres with videos, artifacts and interactive exhibits. A dozen restaurants and nightlife venues— WP24, Cleo and Lucky Strike Lanes, to name a few—face a massive urban plaza lined with LED screens. The Los Angeles Convention Center, encompassing 16-plus acres of exhibition space, is also here. EXPOSITION PARK Just south of downtown is Exposition Park, whose grounds hold major museums and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, temporary home of the L.A. Rams. The California African American Museum delves into black history, and the beauxarts-style Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers insight into prehistoric giants. The California Science Center has a 3-D Imax theater and exhibits the retired NASA space shuttle Endeavour.
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A cocktail at Mama Lion
insider tips
HIP ‘HOOD Koreatown’s nightlife scene is all abuzz with destination-worthy restaurants and bars. Art Major 636 S. Mariposa Ave., 213.221.4093 Here’s Looking at You 3901 W. 6th St., 213.568.3573 Mama Lion 601 S. Western Ave., 213.377.5277 Master Ha 1147 S. Western Ave., 323.998.0427 The Normandie Club/ The Walker Inn 3612 W. 6th St., 213.263.2709 Paper Tiger Bar 4574 Beverly Blvd., 323.844.3716 Sun Nong Dan 3470 W. 6th St., Suite 7, 213.365.0303 The Venue 3470 Wilshire Blvd., 213.221.1251
FROM LEFT: KATIE GIBBS; JAKOB LAYMAN
SHOPPING DISTRICTS
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L.A. STYLE OUTLET SAVINGS
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OLD PASADENA
/ PLAYHOUSE DISTRICT + SOUTH LAKE AVENUE / SAN MARINO + SAN GABRIEL VALLEY
PASADENA Minutes from downtown L.A. via the Arroyo Seco Parkway (Pasadena Freeway) or the Metro Gold Line commuter train is Pasadena. Its architectural pedigree is world-class, and renowned institutions including the Tournament of Roses and Caltech lend it cachet. The city’s diverse neighbors are also worth discovering.
Old Pasadena A tribute to foresighted urban planning is the 22-square-block shopping district known as Old Pasadena, roughly bounded by Walnut and Green streets, Arroyo Parkway and Pasadena Avenue. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s a collection of restored buildings filled with trendy boutiques, bistros and nightclubs. Merchants range from Tesla Motors to H&M, and eateries include Union, a top-rated Italian restaurant. Pedestrian-only alleys meander through the One Colorado project in the heart of Old Pasadena, where restaurants offer alfresco dining overlooking a sculpture-strewn square. Boutiques such as Vince and Cop. Copine draw shoppers, while iPic Theaters reimagines the moviegoing experience with state-of-the-art technology, plush seats and a bar/café. Nearby is the Norton Simon Museum, home to one of the finest art collections in the
West. The galleries are filled with works dating from the Renaissance to the 20th century, and the museum’s repertoire of impressionist masters (e.g., Monet, Cézanne, Van Gogh) is formidable. A sculpture garden features a major tribute to Degas. East of Old Pasadena is Paseo Colorado, a shopping center with an ArcLight movie theater, restaurants and shops lining garden promenades. Its open-air design frames views of Pasadena City Hall, a majestic landmark restored to its original beaux-arts grandeur.
Playhouse District + South Lake Avenue Anchored by the Mission-style Pasadena Playhouse, this district offers art-house cinema, antique shops and bookstores, as well as the famed Ice House Comedy Club, whose stage has hosted George Carlin and Jerry Seinfeld. Other cultural attractions include the Boston Court Performing Arts Center and the Pasadena Museum of California Art. East of the Playhouse District, South Lake Avenue provides a vibrant shopping environment. Inviting boutiques are set around European-style courtyards at
San Marino + San Gabriel Valley South of the Langham is San Marino and its primary attraction, The Huntington, whose library, art collections, botanical gardens and new education and visitor center occupy one of the most remarkable pieces of real estate in Southern California. Here, the Italianate mansion of railroad magnate Henry Huntington houses an extraordinary collection of 18th- and 19th-century art. A library with nearly 9 million rare books, photographs and manuscripts occupies another structure. Throughout the 200-acre property are more than a dozen distinct botanical environments, the Helen and Peter Bing Children’s Garden and a formal rose garden boasting more than 1,200 rose varieties.
great find
cruffin craVING Inventor of the cruffin (a muffin-croissant hybrid, pictured left), San Francisco import Mr. Holmes Bakehouse opened in Highland Park in 2016 and has enjoyed a local cult following ever since (a Larchmont location followed hot on its heels). Keep an eye on the bakery’s social media channels and website for seasonal flavors. 111 S. Ave. 59, L.A., 323.739.0473, mrholmesbakehouse.com
top left: dale berman; Bottom, white oak communications. opposite, from left: dale berman; courtesy ADANA
the Commons and Burlington Arcade. A drive south on Lake Avenue through one of the city’s most opulent residential neighborhoods leads to the Langham Huntington. Consider this grand, historic hotel for high tea, Japanese Kobe beef at its Royce steakhouse or pampering at its award-winning Chuan Spa.
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/ SOUTH PASADENA / EAGLE ROCK + GLENDALE
Pasadena’s Colorado Bridge. Opposite, from left: Pasadena City Hall; Huntington Gardens
Sharing Pasadena’s eastern border are the communities of Sierra Madre and Arcadia, home to Santa Anita Park, a storied thoroughbred-horse-racing venue. Arcadia is also home to the 127-acre Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden, whose natural Southern California habitat is famous for its wild peacocks. Farther east, scattered along the San Bernardino Freeway (I-10), are the communities of San Gabriel, Temple City, Monterey Park and Alhambra, which have attracted large numbers of Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants. This means the opportunity for enjoying Asian cuisine is virtually unrivaled in Southern California. Tourists passionate about history, architecture or faith can explore the 1771 San Gabriel Mission, and the rugged San Gabriel Mountains present hiking opportunities for nature lovers.
South Pasadena The scenic route to South Pasadena on Orange Grove Boulevard passes through a stretch once known as Millionaire’s Row. Some splendid homes remain, including the former Wrigley Mansion (Tournament House), which now houses the Tournament of Roses Association. North of Old Pasadena, the boulevard leads to the Gamble House. This, the most famous achievement of architects Greene and Greene, is a classic representation of the Arts and Crafts movement that left its imprint on Pasadena. South Pasadena is a tranquil community whose Craftsman homes range from bungalows to mansions, and its Mission West Historic District is lined with antique shops, art galleries, casual cafés and kid-friendly spots like Fair Oaks Pharmacy, a restored drugstore from 1915.
Eagle Rock + Glendale West of Pasadena is Eagle Rock, a quiet college town reinventing itself as a trendy L.A. neighborhood. Its main drag of Colorado Boulevard is lined with a diverse collection of restaurants including Casa Bianca, a venerable old-school pizza joint. In Eagle Rock, students from highly ranked Occidental College— where a young Barack Obama once studied—mingle with young couples who are snapping up hillside real estate. On the far side of Eagle Rock is Glendale, the third-largest city in Los Angeles County. There, office workers pour out of highrises for happy hour at The Americana at Brand, an open-air shopping, residential and entertainment development. Stylesavvy shoppers can browse in boutiques, catch a movie or recharge at the Americana’s restaurants, which include the Philippe Starck-designed Katsuya and celebrity chef Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak. Home to a large Armenian community, Glendale offers a wealth of ethnic eateries specializing in kebabs, shawarma and belly dancing. Marked by a towering neon obelisk is the Alex Theatre, a restored art deco masterpiece that hosts concerts and musicals. Steps from the Alex is the new Museum of Neon Art, dedicated to showcasing a quintessentially L.A. craft. North of Glendale is Montrose, whose main street of Honolulu Avenue is more Mayberry than L.A. Close by, in La Cañada Flintridge, is sprawling Descanso Gardens, with North America’s largest camellia collection—an awesome sight when in full bloom during January and February.
A dish at Adana
insider tips
Middle Feast Head to these restaurants for top-notch kebabs and falafel. Adana Restaurant 6918 San Fernando Road, Glendale, 818.843.6237 Carousel Restaurant 304 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale, 818.246.7775 Corner Cuisine 501 S. Central Ave., Glendale, 818.500.0304 Elena’s Greek Armenian Cuisine 1000 S. Glendale Ave., Glendale, 818.241.5730 Mediterranean Cafe 273 Shoppers Lane, Pasadena, 626.793.8844 Mini Kabob 313 ½ Vine St., Glendale, 818.244.1343 Raffi’s Place 211 E. Broadway, Glendale, 818.240.7411 Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine 2226 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.795.6900
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Universal City
/ Burbank / North Hollywood / Ventura Boulevard / deep in the valley
The Valley
Universal City A couple of Metro stops north of the heart of Hollywood is Universal City, a major entertainment-industry outpost. The highlight is Universal Studios Hollywood, which offers a behind-the-scenes peek into moviemaking, plus a theme park with high-tech virtual-reality action rides. The new Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction is all the buzz; also thrilling are the Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem attraction and the Simpsons Ride and its adjacent Springfield-themed “world.” Splurge for Universal’s VIP Experience, which pampers its guests with such perks as private tour guides, exclusive backlot access and unlimited front-of-line access in the theme park. Among the wide-ranging attractions next door at pedestrian-only Universal CityWalk are skydiving simulations at iFly Hollywood and mechanical bull riding at Saddle Ranch Chop House. Restaurants include
new Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Dongpo Kitchen, chef Ludo Lefebvre’s LudoBird and Voodoo Doughnut.
Burbank Burbank calls itself the “media capital of the world”—and with good reason. The city is home to some of the most famous players in the entertainment business, including Walt Disney Studios, Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon Animation Studio. Get a taste of the action on a Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood or as part of the studio audience at a taping of one of
your favorite programs, such as The Ellen DeGeneres Show. The media district, which encompasses most of these companies, also boasts some newer cafés and dining destinations, including Coffee Commissary and Simmzy’s, as well as the iconic Bob’s Big Boy, which hosts a classic-car show every Friday. Burbank’s entertainment industry is hardly the city’s only draw. More than 160 restaurants and shops cater to locals and visitors alike. The downtown district offers a major-mall shopping experience, movie theaters and the country’s largest Ikea,
but surrounding streets, such as historic San Fernando Boulevard, have a more homegrown feel, with shops and trendy bistros such as Granville Cafe. Another must-visit district is hip Magnolia Park, centered at Magnolia Boulevard and Hollywood Way, which offers indie cafés, antique shops and the area’s best retro and vintage boutiques (Playclothes and Pinup Girl are favorites). Always-packed Porto’s Bakery offers excellent pastries and sandwiches from Europe and the owners’ native Cuba. Do you like the outdoors? Burbank is a gateway to the Verdugo Mountains, which are crisscrossed with hiking trails. A workout here is rewarded with spectacular views of Burbank, the Hollywood Hills and downtown L.A. For golf enthusiasts, DeBell Golf Club features regulation 18-hole and par-3 courses. And during the summer, outdoor amphitheater the Starlight Bowl hosts a music series. If you’re jetting into or out of L.A., you can escape the hassles of LAX by opting for uncongested Hollywood Burbank Airport. It offers nonstop flights to many cities across the country and
great find
center peaCE “Om” is the word at The Den Meditation, an L.A. studio that recently expanded to Studio City. Founded by an ex-NBC television exec, the Den appeals to newbies and avid meditators alike. Channel your newfound calm when you find yourself seated next to one of its celebrity clients, such as Amanda Seyfried or Drew Barrymore. 12323 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.856.8033, denmeditation.com
clockwise from top left: Dale berman (2); courtesy the den meditation. Opposite, from left: Dale berman; courtesy Slone Vintage
The Valley is a sprawling collection of communities, each with its own attractions and charms. Immortalized in movies as diverse as Chinatown and Valley Girl, the area derives its name from Mission San Fernando Rey de España, the historic landmark on the Valley’s northernmost edge.
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Hogwarts Castle at Universal Studios Hollywood. Opposite, from left: Universal CityWalk; Idle Hour in North Hollywood
is centrally located, with easy access to Hollywood, downtown L.A. and the San Gabriel Valley.
North Hollywood North Hollywood wasn’t much of a tourist destination until the community transformed its commercial core into the NoHo Arts District, now filled with nearly two dozen professional theaters, including the landmark El Portal Theatre. These venues present some of the most innovative stage performances in L.A., and neighboring dance studios and art galleries contribute to the scene. With restaurants like the Federal Bar, a lively gastropub, and Idle Hour, a bar in a barrel-shaped, refurbished landmark building from the 1940s, the momentum continues for this transit-linked urban village. From NoHo’s Metro station, you can access central Holly-
wood and downtown via the Red Line subway or board the Orange Line, a sleek express bus that traverses the entire San Fernando Valley.
Ventura Boulevard This iconic, palm-lined boulevard stretches 20 miles across the San Fernando Valley. Immortalized in music by Frank Zappa and Tom Petty, the boulevard is an integral part of L.A. culture and home to a burgeoning dining scene. In Studio City, it’s lined with eateries, including entertainment-industry-favored Art’s Deli, newer favorite the Bellwether and a greater concentration of acclaimed sushi bars (such as Asanebo) than Little Tokyo claims. For shopping, there are charming boutiques and beauty retreats such as Face Haus facial bar. Hip bars and restaurants including Firefly have helped to launch a nightlife scene.
Farther west, as the boulevard winds its way through Sherman Oaks, you’ll encounter laid-back trattorias and bistros, as well as shops such as Abundance, a boutique showcasing plus-size designer fashions. Sherman Oaks is also home to Westfield Fashion Square, anchored by Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s and featuring upscale boutiques. Sherman Oaks Galleria is near the junction of the 405 and 101 freeways; draws include ArcLight Cinemas, where there’s a chance you’ll see famous faces drawn to the Valley by its family-oriented lifestyle.
Deep in the Valley Westfield Topanga shopping center is loaded with exclusive designer boutiques, including Louis Vuitton and David Yurman. The Village lifestyle destination opened recently, expanding the center’s retail and dining options. Farther west off the Ventura Freeway (U.S. 101) is Calabasas, where celebrities move for more elbow room. Upscale shopping and casual eateries live at the Commons at Calabasas, an elegant open-air destination. A few exits beyond that is Westlake Village, where locals hit the luxurious spa or do lunch at the Four Seasons. Visitors to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in neighboring Simi Valley can step aboard an actual Air Force One, visit a full-size replica of the White House Oval Office and learn all about America’s 40th president. North on the Golden State Freeway (I-5) in Valencia, coaster lovers gather at Six Flags Magic Mountain for rides too wild for Disneyland.
Slone Vintage
insider tips
retro row Burbank’s Magnolia Park is home to a plethora of shops selling vintage clothes and collectibles. Antiques on Magnolia 3412 ½ W. Magnolia Blvd., 818.331.1392 Bearded Lady Vintage & Oddities 3202 W. Magnolia Blvd., 323.696.5219 Best of Times 3401 W. Magnolia Blvd., 818.848.5851 Hubba Hubba 3220 W. Magnolia Blvd., 818.845.0636 It’s a Wrap 3315 W. Magnolia Blvd., 818.567.7366 Junk for Joy 3314 W. Magnolia Blvd., 818.569.4903 Playclothes Vintage 3100 W. Magnolia Blvd., 818.557.8447 Slone Vintage 3208 W. Magnolia Blvd., 818.861.7892
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MANHATTAN BEACH
/ HERMOSA BEACH / REDONDO BEACH
SOUTH BAY the specialty shops and eateries that line Pier Avenue. Farther east, Becker’s carries surfboards and beachwear.
MANHATTAN BEACH Nineteen miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach boasts 2 miles of beaches with sand so fine that developers exported it to Waikiki Beach in the 1920s. Laid-back Manhattan Beach is home to many professional athletes: You might spot an L.A. Kings player as you walk along the Strand, the pedestrian promenade sandwiched between multimillion-dollar homes and the beachfront bike trail. At the end of the city’s picturesque pier, the Roundhouse Aquarium delights with touch tanks. The pier features plaques commemorating winners of the Manhattan Beach Open—the South Bay is die-hard beach-volleyball country. It’s also a playground for water-sports enthusiasts, including bodyboarders and surfers. East of the pier along Manhattan Beach Boulevard and Manhattan Avenue are chic boutiques and a burgeoning dining scene, with restaurants
such as Fishing With Dynamite, Love & Salt, Little Sister and The Strand House drawing gourmets from across L.A. The Metlox center is a popular gathering place, with shops such as the Beehive and hot spots including Zinc at Shade hotel.
HERMOSA BEACH Head south on Manhattan Avenue to Pier Avenue, the heart of Hermosa Beach. Hermosa shares many characteristics with Manhattan Beach, including its own scenic stretch of beach punctuated by volleyball nets, fitness buffs weaving
along the Strand (here merged with the bike path) and a pier studded with bronze plaques commemorating surfing legends. Come late afternoon, the pedestrian plaza at the foot of the pier becomes a different kind of South Bay scene, thanks to spillover from bars and restaurants such as Hennessey’s Tavern and Playa Hermosa Fish and Oyster. Close to Pier Plaza, on Hermosa Avenue, Jay Leno still draws crowds to the Comedy & Magic Club Sunday nights. To the plaza’s east, café/boutique Gum Tree and the Hook & Plow are standouts among
REDONDO BEACH The largest of L.A. County’s beach cities, Redondo Beach is home to the 1,457-seat Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center and a recreational waterfront featuring 2 miles of sandy beaches, the popular Redondo Beach Pier and King Harbor. Sepulveda Boulevard becomes Pacific Coast Highway as it enters town; signs point west to King Harbor’s Redondo Beach Marina, one of four marinas in the harbor. Here businesses such as Redondo Sportfishing offer fishing excursions and whale-watching tours, while other local outfitters rent out kayaks, paddleboats, bicycles and wave runners. South of the harbor, the historic Redondo Beach Pier has had its ups and downs, but it keeps rising from the ashes to attract locals and visitors to quick-and-casual eateries, amusements and souvenir shops. South of the pier, the gentle waves and somewhat narrow strip of Redondo State Beach
great find
OPEN CONTAINERS Long Beach’s Bixby Knolls neighborhood has a new hangout in SteelCraft, an outdoor eatery that nods to the city’s busy port. Built from repurposed shipping containers, the complex is occupied by local vendors including Desano Pizza, Lovesome Chocolates, Smog City Brewing, Steelhead Coffee, Tajima Ramen and Waffle Love (pictured left). 3768 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach, steelcraftlb.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY L.A. COUNTY DEPT. OF BEACHES & HARBORS; COURTESY AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC; ALAN SISTO, FRESH PAGE IMAGES. OPPOSITE: EDWIN SANTIAGO
In the South Bay, the cities of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach occupy an idyllic coastal stretch known for surfing and volleyball. To the north is El Segundo; to the south are the beautiful bluffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and the bustling waterfronts of San Pedro and Long Beach.
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NEW IN TOWN Cafe Wild
This casual, pet-friendly restaurant serves up shareable plates with a beachy vibe all day long. Pair with coffee or wine. 3505 Highland Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.2444
Hi-Fi Espresso
This groovy husbandand-wife-owned coffeehouse pays homage to the cinema, fashion and vibes of the 1970s. 227 Pacific Coast Hwy., Hermosa Beach, hifiespresso.com
Umi by Hamasaku
Chef Yoya Takahashi’s stylish new seafood izakaya and sushi restaurant at the Point is an offshoot of his revered Westwood Japanese staple, Hamasaku. 860 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 116, El Segundo, 310.524.9980
The Redondo Beach Pier. Opposite, from left: The Manhattan Beach Pier; an exhibit at the Aquarium of the Pacific WHERE LOS ANGELES 59
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/ SAN PEDRO / LONG BEACH the marina, part of the Cabrillo Beach Recreational Complex. The complex also includes the Frank Gehry-designed Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and Cabrillo Beach—one of the county’s most popular windsurfing spots.
Santa Catalina Island
draw crowds during the summer, while the bike path meanders by on its way to its terminus at Torrance State Beach. One block east of the beach, the Riviera Village shopping district has a small-town feel, with restaurants and specialty boutiques such as Cami and the Catalina Cooking Store covering a six-block radius.
PALOS VERDES PENINSULA Beyond Redondo Beach rises the Palos Verdes Peninsula, a rugged 26-square-mile area known for majestic bluffs that afford sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Catalina Island. Head a few miles inland via Palos Verdes Drive North to the 87-acre South Coast Botanic Garden, a year-round attraction featuring 200,000 plants. Or hug the coast on Palos Verdes Drive West to Rancho Palos Verdes’ Point Vicente Interpretive Center, a popular graywhale-watching site. Just past the adjacent Point Vicente lighthouse is the Mediterranean-style Terranea Resort, which offers fine dining, a 50,000-square-
foot oceanfront spa and a public nine-hole golf course. Farther along is the Wayfarers Chapel, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright’s son Lloyd Wright. The impressive Swedenborgian “glass church” is a popular wedding venue.
SAN PEDRO The multicultural community of San Pedro, on the southeastern side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, was once the largest commercial fishing port in the nation. Today it’s home to the bustling 7,500-acre Port of Los Angeles, which features passenger and cargo terminals, as well as a crafts marketplace and brewery. Catalina Express operates from Berth 95, offering daily boat service to Catalina’s quaint city of Avalon and rustic village of Two Harbors. More than a million travelers pass through the World Cruise Center (Berths 91-93) annually; adjacent to the complex is the battleship-turned-museum Battleship USS Iowa. The New England-style Ports O’ Call Village offers waterfront restaurants and shops, and beyond it is
LONG BEACH In the county’s southwestern corner, Long Beach is home to a busy commercial port, an attraction-packed waterfront and more than 5 miles of beaches. A popular draw is the 1,020-foot-long Queen Mary, a historic, supposedly haunted ship-turned-hotel, dining and shopping attraction permanently moored in Long Beach Harbor. The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, the Pike Outlets, the Aquarium of the Pacific and Shoreline Village are nearby. From the village, you can follow the Shoreline pedestrian bike path 3.1 miles, past the Long Beach Museum of Art and into the Belmont Shore neighborhood. Here you’ll find shops and restaurants along 2nd Street, Bay Shore Beach, the Belmont Pier and windsurfing and kite-surfing lessons. Across a small channel is Naples, where you can take gondola rides through the canals and dine at restaurants such as Michael’s on Naples. Downtown, along 4th Street between Junipero and Cherry avenues, vintage-furniture and clothing shops make up funky “Retro Row.” In the emergent East Village Arts District, hip galleries and boutiques are sprouting where Linden Avenue meets Broadway. Farther east, an impressive collection of modern and contemporary works decks the walls of the Museum of Latin American Art.
WF O R BOLD I T E M S, S E E T HE W HE R E G UIDE . F O R A NE I GHB O R H O O D M A P, S E E PA GE 9 3.
Brouwerij West brews
insider tips
BEACH BREWS Soak up the South Bay craft-beer scene. Beachwood BBQ & Brewing 210 E. 3rd St., Long Beach, 562.436.4020 Beer Belly Long Beach 255 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach, 562.436.2337 Brouwerij West 110 E. 22nd St., San Pedro, 310.833.9330 El Segundo Brewing Co. 140 Main St., El Segundo, 310.529.3882 Los Angeles Ale Works 12918 Cerise Ave., Hawthorne, 424.456.4191 Monkish Brewing Co. 20311 S. Western Ave., Torrance, monkishbrewing.com Smog City Brewing 1901 Del Amo Blvd., Torrance, 310.320.7664 Strand Brewing Co. 2201 Dominguez St., Torrance, 310.429.4444 Yorkshire Square Brewery 1109 Van Ness Ave., Torrance, 424.376.5115
FROM LEFT: NIAZ UDDIN; CHRIS VALLE
PALOS VERDES PENINSULA
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There’s Always
More to Sea™ in Redondo Beach...
Where skies are crystal blue, and palm trees sway from cool ocean breezes is a picturesque beach community that is classic Southern California. Redondo Beach is the perfect blend of ideal coastal beauty and fun in the sun. Just seven miles south of LAX, but removed from the hustle and bustle of the big city. This is the place where you can either get away from it all or do-it all. #VisitRedondo For more information visit or call:
www.visitredondo.com 800.282.0333
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WHERE CUISINE MEETS THE L.A. SCENE
WEST HOLLYWOOD / SANTA MONICA BOASTEAK.COM
TEPPANYAKI GRILL | SUSHI BAR | OUTDOOR LOUNGE
WEST HOLLYWOOD ROKUSUNSET.COM
PASADENA / SANTA MONICA / NEWPORT BEACH SUSHIROKU.COM
WEST HOLLYWOOD KATANALA.COM
INNOVATIVE DINING GROUP
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THE GUIDE
© MUSÉE DU QUAI BRANLY-JACQUES CHIRAC, PHOTO THIERRY OLIVIER, MICHEL URTADO
WHERE
ART + CULTURE
Indelible Ink The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County makes a lasting impression on visitors with the new special exhibition Tattoo. It explores more than 5,000 years of history and culture connected to the art of marking skin as shown through paintings, silicone forms, videos of tattoo ceremonies and ancient tools of the trade. Supplementing pieces from the traveling exhibition (including a 250-year-old ink pad and the carved wood mask pictured here) are objects from the museum’s own collection that draw from Southern California’s rich ink culture. And mark this: An on-site tattoo parlor offers permanent tattoos as durable souvenirs! ($250; see nhm.org for details.) Timed tickets $11-$24 including museum admission, members and under 2 free. See listing under Museums.
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/ Dining american 71above Chef Vartan Abgaryan (Cliff’s Edge) heads up this restaurant on the 71st floor of the U.S. Bank Tower. In addition to skyline views, expect elevated modern American dishes like foie gras and a farm egg with crispy potato, chorizo, finger lime and cilantro. À la carte options are available at the bar, and prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus are offered in the main dining room and several private dining spaces. L (M-F), D (nightly). 633 W. 5th St., 71st Floor, downtown, 213.712.2683 $$$$ Map H16 ANIMAL Bare-bones eatery, from the guys known to Food Network fans as the “Two Dudes,” is a carnivore’s dream. Dishes include delectable takes on offal (such as crispy pig ear) and a bacon-chocolate-crunch bar for dessert. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 435 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.782.9225 $$$ Map I13 BIRCH Cahuenga Corridor spot from chef Brendan Collins serves a seasonally driven menu in a whitewashed, clean-lined space. D (Tu-Su), Sunday roast noon-4 pm. 1634 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, 323.960.3369 $$$ Map H13
All-Day Delish Two new downtown L.A. dining spots satisfy all-day appetites. Fundamental DTLA (750 S. Grand Ave., 213.935.8180), a casual sibling of the Westwood original, is open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. daily. Freshly baked pastries and breads (like those above) and creative takes on comfort fare (such as furikake sesame tots with Sriracha aioli) have already made this pretty spot popular with the office crowd. The Mighty (108 W. 2nd St., 213.278.0025), from Karen and Quinn Hatfield of Odys + Penelope and the Sycamore Kitchen, keeps it simple and seasonal near City Hall from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. M-F (5 p.m.11 p.m. Sa). Dine on organic salads, focaccias and housemade pastas, plus to-die-for desserts. Note: Keep an eye on fundamental-la.com and themightydtla.com for extended hours and menus.
Clifton’s This kitschy downtown cafeteria, which dates to the 1930s, recently reopened after a multimilliondollar renovation. The multiple-story eatery offers oldschool cuisine, with a roast-meat-carving station and JellO for dessert, as well as a craft-beer bar and the Pacific Seas Tiki bar. L, D (Th-Su). 648 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.627.1673 $$ Map I16 CRAFT New York chef Tom Colicchio of TV’s Top Chef brings his signature concept to L.A. The restaurant delivers a contemporary American à la carte menu, with fun, shareable dishes including roasted octopus and diver scallops with vermouth butter. L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 10100 Constellation Blvd., L.A., 310.279.4180 $$$$ Map K11 Delilah This celebrity-favored restaurant/lounge from the H.Wood Group pays homage to the Roaring ‘20s and offers a menu of classic and modern American cuisine (e.g., deviled eggs, chicken tenders and funnel cake). It’s the perfect spot for drinks, dinner and dancing. Reservation-only. D (Tu-Su). 7969 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.745.0600 $$$ Map H12 freds at barneys Inside Beverly Hills retail destination Barneys New York, the first West Coast outpost of the retailer’s signature restaurant is a go-to for power lunches, shopping breaks and happy hour. Try the artisan pizza with Robiola and truffle oil or the Beverly Hills club sandwich. Balconies boast views of the Hollywood sign and Beverly Hills. L (daily). 9570 Wilshire Blvd., Fifth Floor, Beverly Hills, 310.777.5877 $$$ Map J11 Gwen Maude chef Curtis Stone and brother Luke’s restaurant—named after their maternal grandmother— features meat-centric tasting menus served in an art deco dining room, plus a European-style butcher shop in the front that offers sandwiches. D (Tu-Sa). 6600 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.946.7513 $$$ Map H14 The Independence This bright, friendly tavern in downtown Santa Monica, which pays homage to the Los Angeles & Independence Railroad, offers a great happy hour and a menu of New American cuisine that includes blistered shishito peppers and seafood stew with chorizo and shrimp broth. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 205 Broadway, Santa Monica, 310.458.2500 $$$ Map L8 ink.WELL The approachable menu at this new location of Top Chef winner Michael Voltaggio’s first restaurant, ink., incorporates menu signatures and classics from the ink. program, and the detached bar area is triple the size of the original. D (nightly). 826 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.358.9058 $$$ Map J12
guidelines
Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps in the back of this issue. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
index American........................64 Japanese........................68 Breweries/Gastropubs..66 Mediterranean...............69 British/Irish....................66 Mexican/Latin................69 California........................66 Pan-Asian.......................69 Chinese...........................66 Seafood...........................70 Eclectic/Fusion..............67 Spanish...........................70 French............................67 Steak...............................70 Italian..............................68 Thai.................................70
Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern This rusticyet-sophisticated restaurant offers creative takes on American regional classics. Try the Jimmy burger with jalapeño jam, pimento cheese and applewood-smoked bacon, followed by the “Bananageddon” sundae for dessert. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1733 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 424.292.5222 $$ Map M8 Joan’s on Third Celebrity-frequented café on busy West 3rd Street and a newer location in the Valley offer omelets, sandwiches, salads, soups and sweets, plus picnic baskets and gourmet items. B, L, D (daily). 8350 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.655.2285; 12059 Ventura Place, Studio City, 818.201.3900 $ Map I12, T18 LEDLOW/P.Y.T. At Ledlow, chef Josef Centeno, who rules downtown’s Old Bank District (Bäco Mercat, Bar Amá, Orsa & Winston), offers twists on classic bistro dishes, American favorites and diverse cultural staples. Half of the space has now been transformed into the vegetable-focused concept P.Y.T. Ledlow: L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). P.Y.T.: L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa), Br (Sa-Su). 400 S. Main St., downtown, 213.687.7015 $$ Map I17 m.b. post Chef David LeFevre serves small plates of seafood, fresh-baked breads, cured meats and more in the space of a former post office. The “Eat Your Vegetables” menu makes green beans and Brussels sprouts look tantalizing. L (F-Su), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1142 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5405 $$$ Map L13 Odys + Penelope Churrasco and grill from Karen and Quinn Hatfield features a live-fire grill and woodfired smoker. Eclectic, flavorful cuisine is accompanied by a menu of craft beer, wine and handcrafted cocktails. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options also available. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 127 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.939.1033 $$$ Map B2 Plan Check Kitchen + Bar Minichain offers contemporary takes on American classics, complemented by craft beers and premium whiskeys. Try the acclaimed Plan Check burger. L.A., downtown: L, D (daily); Br (Su). Santa Monica: L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1800 Sawtelle Blvd., L.A., 310.444.1411; 351 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.591.0094; 1111 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.403.1616; 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.857.1364 $$ Map K9, I12, H16, L8 Redbird Chef Neal Fraser’s contemporary American cuisine is offered in the rectory of the former Cathedral of St. Vibiana. Rack of red wattle pork and chicken potpie are part of an intriguing menu. An updated Spanish Baroque decor and retro-inspired cocktails complete the scene. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 114 E. 2nd St., downtown, 213.788.1191 $$$ Map H17
W Bruce Kalman, the James Beard Award-nominated chef/owner of Union in Pasadena (p. 68), stars in season 15 of Bravo’s Top Chef, premiering Dec. 7.
Wonho Frank Lee
The Guide
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DINING
CAVATINA Esteemed East Coast chef Michael Schlow’s first L.A. restaurant serves local, delicious cuisine inside the rock ‘n’ roll-steeped Sunset Marquis hotel. Don’t miss Schlow’s award-winning burger and the decadent Sunday brunch. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1200 Alta Loma Road, West Hollywood, 310.358.3759 $$$ Map H12
The garden at Vespertine (p. 67)
BREWERIES/GASTROPUBS ABIGAILE A venture of Blackhouse Hospitality (Little Sister, Steak & Whisky, Día de Campo), this funky, graffitimuraled American brasserie with a rooftop bar is lots of fun. Executive chef Tin Vuong presents escargot “poppers” washed down with house-brewed beer. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1301 Manhattan Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.798.8227 $$ Map L13 FATHER’S OFFICE Microbrew mecca; one of L.A.’s best burgers. A new downtown location is in the works. Santa Monica: L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). Culver City: L (F-Su), D (nightly). 1018 Montana Ave., Santa Monica; 3229 Helms Ave., Culver City, 310.736.2224 $$ Map L8, L11 SIMMZY’S Popular pub with locations in Manhattan Beach, Long Beach, Burbank and just off the Venice pier serves up hearty burgers (try the classic Simmzy’s), sandwiches, salads and other fresh fare. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 3000 W. Olive Ave., Burbank, 818.962.2500; 5271 E. 2nd St., Long Beach, 562.439.5590; 229 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.546.1201; 37 Washington Blvd., Venice, 424.835.6580 $ Map T20, O17, L13, N9
BRITISH/IRISH TEA ROSE GARDEN This whimsical, English-garden tearoom, an Old Pasadena fixture for 20 years, serves traditional fare including scones, finger sandwiches and salads sprinkled with flower petals. A florist and boutique selling tea trays and loose-leaf teas are also on-site. B, L, Br (daily). 70 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena, 626.578.1144 $$ Map Q20 YE OLDE KING’S HEAD Cozy pub/restaurant with traditional English fare, including acclaimed fish and chips. B, L, D (daily); high tea (M-Sa). 116 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.451.1402 $ Map L8
CALIFORNIA CUISINE 208 RODEO This gem of a café boasts a picturesque setting above Via Rodeo’s cobblestone street at luxe Two Rodeo—the perfect place to while away an afternoon and enjoy all-day California cuisine with pan-Asian and French influences. Standout dishes include wagyu burgers, seafood salad and penne arrabbiata. B, L, D (daily). Two Rodeo, 208 Via Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.275.2428 $$ Map J11 BARAN’S 2239 This South Bay restaurant from brothers Jonathan and Jason Baran serves up shareable dishes in an intimate space that belies its strip-mall setting. Chef Tyler Gugliotta (the Tasting Kitchen) incorporates produce from his family’s farm into seasonal specialties with multicultural influences, including a bistro filet with cherry demi-glace, celery-root latke and horseradish.
COMMERSON Newer neighborhood spot serves eclectic bistro fare with a French accent. Dine on menu highlights like roasted Creekstone Farms petit filet mignon with seared Rougié foie gras. The wine selection focuses on varietals from France and Italy; cocktails are fresh and simple. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 788 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.813.3000 $$ Map B2 EVELEIGH With a menu chockablock with farm-fresh veggies and meats in a country-chic space, Eveleigh projects an image of cool rusticity. The kitchen endeavors to use housemade ingredients right down to the apple gomme syrup in your cocktail and the brioche toast slices with your Jidori-chicken-liver pâté. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8752 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.239.1630 $$ Map H12 THE FRONT YARD This restaurant at the Garland hotel features fresh farm-to-table cuisine from chef Larry Greenwood. Start your meal with chive flatbread topped with chimichurri butter, then move on to entrées like Mary’s Chicken. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 4222 Vineland Ave., North Hollywood, 818.255.7290 $$ Map U19 HINOKI & THE BIRD Inside luxury residential tower the Century, taste Japanese and Southeast Asian flavors in such dishes as lobster rolls with green curry and Thai basil, and black cod scented with the smoke of the namesake hinoki wood. L (M-F), D (Tu-Sa). 10 W. Century Drive, Century City, 310.552.1200 $$$ Map J10 JEAN-GEORGES BEVERLY HILLS Michelin-rated French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s namesake restaurant at the new Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills is an opulent indoor/outdoor fine-dining destination, perfect for enjoying fresh, local cuisine. B, L, D (daily). 9850 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.860.6566 $$$ Map J11 LOVE & SALT Dine on creative Cal-Italian fare (e.g., duck-egg pizza and whole roasted pig head) in this buzzy South Bay spot. Chef de cuisine/pastry chef Rebecca Merhej’s desserts are divine. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 317 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5252 $$$ Map L13 MICHAEL’S Michael McCarty’s influential farm-to-table restaurant, opened in 1979, is refreshed and back in the spotlight. New to the kitchen is acclaimed chef Miles Thompson (Allumette, Nobu, Son of a Gun), whose menu includes such innovative, ingredient-driven dishes as duck confit with rose geranium, sweet potato and pomegranate. Ask about California cult wines in the cellar collection. D (M–Sa). 1147 3rd St., Santa Monica, 310.451.0843 $$$ Map L8 PALEY Located in historic Columbia Square, this glamorous restaurant (named after former CBS CEO William S. Paley) pays homage to the Golden Age of Hollywood. Inside a midcentury-modern dining room, dine on classic dishes with a modern twist, such as braised pork belly with applesauce, frisée and whole-grain mustard. L (M-F), D (nightly). 6115 Sunset Blvd., Suite 100, L.A., 323.544.9430 $$$ Map H14 PLANT FOOD + WINE Restaurant from Matthew Kenney takes a raw, locally sourced and plant-based approach to dining. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from an extensive organic and biodynamic selection. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1009 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1009 $$$ Map N9
RUSTIC CANYON Discover boutique wines while sampling small plates of market-driven, Mediterraneaninspired fare. Clam pozole is just one of the winners. Hide in a cozy booth or mingle at the communal table. D (nightly). 1119 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.393.7050 $$$ Map L8 SPAGO An L.A. institution, Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant features a modern dining room and a daily changing menu that may include dishes like veal “Wiener schnitzel” and spicy tuna tartare. L (TuSa), D (nightly). 176 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.385.0880 $$$$ Map I11 THE STRAND HOUSE This beachside restaurant boasts awesome ocean and pier views and a breezy, stylish bar. New executive chef Austin Cobb’s menu highlights award-winning Coastal California Cuisine. L (Tu-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.7470 $$$ Map L13 TAR & ROSES Chef Andrew Kirschner’s first restaurant focuses on small, rustic shareable plates cooked in his wood-burning oven, but with a week’s notice, he can also whip up large, lavish family-style suppers of Moroccan-spiced goat or standing rib rack. D (nightly). 602 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.587.0700 $$$ Map L8 THE TASTING KITCHEN Foodies come for the daily changing menu of innovative yet unpretentious cuisine from culinary-darling chef Casey Lane: small or large plates of cured meats, artisan cheeses, vegetables, seafood and pastas. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1633 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.392.6644 $$$ Map M9 TAVERN James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin’s third L.A. restaurant explores rustic Cal-Med fare in chic environs, including a popular sunlit indoor patio. The frequently changing menu might include “devil’s chicken” with leeks and mustard breadcrumbs. The adjacent, more casual Larder offers divine housebaked pastries. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 11648 San Vicente Blvd., L.A., 310.806.6464 $$$ Map J9 VIVIANE The menu at the Avalon Hotel Beverly Hills’ poolside restaurant features California takes on European and American dishes. 1950s-inspired seasonal cocktails complement the hotel’s midcentury-modern design by Kelly Wearstler. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 9400 W. Olympic Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.407.7791 $$$ Map J11
CHINESE BAO DIM SUM Enjoy delicious, authentic dim sum in a relaxing, lantern-lit atmosphere. Favorites include juicy pork dumplings and shrimp shumai, followed by bao milk buns for dessert. L, D (daily). 8256 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.655.6556 $$ Map I12 DIN TAI FUNG At this popular and critically acclaimed dumpling house, founded in Taiwan, foodies line up for soup dumplings with filling combinations such as pork and crab or truffle and pork. L, D (daily). 177 Caruso Ave., Glendale, 818.551.5561; 400 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, 626.446.8588 $$ Map U23, R23 MR CHOW The L.A. County editions of scene-y restaurants in New York, London, Miami, Las Vegas and Mexico City offer Imperial Beijing cuisine. Beverly Hills: L (M-F), D (nightly). Malibu: D (nightly). 344 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.278.9911; Malibu Country Mart, 3835 Cross Creek Road, 18A, Malibu, 310.456.7600 $$$ Map I11, K7 ROC At this Little Osaka dumpling house, popular menu items include a scallion pancake, three-cup chicken and made-from-scratch soup dumplings stuffed with pork and fresh crab. L, D (daily). 2049 Sawtelle Blvd., L.A., 310.235.2089; 8474 W. 3rd St., Suite 108, L.A., 323.782.8808; 12775 Millennium Drive, Suite 110, L.A., 424.835.4777 $$ Map K10, I12, 010
JEFF ELLSTONE
After your entrée, opt for a dessert-and-local-beer pairing for a memorable finale. D (Tu-Su). 502 Pacific Coast Hwy., Hermosa Beach, 424.247.8468 $$ Map L13
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2O8 RODEO
Dining
BREA K FA S T
Beverly Hills
LUNCH DI NNER
Since 1991
Yang Chow Fine Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine and an elegant atmosphere have made this restaurant a Chinatown mainstay since 1977. Don’t miss the worldfamous Slippery Shrimp, which have been featured on Food Network. Additional outposts are in the Valley and Pasadena. L, D (daily). 819 N. Broadway, downtown, 213.625.0811; 6443 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Canoga Park, 818.347.2610; 3777 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.432.6868 $$ Map G17, west of A1, Q22
Eclectic/Fusion bARoo Tucked in a homely Hollywood strip mall, this highly acclaimed restaurant from chef Kwang Uh, who was raised in Korea and staged at Noma in Copenhagen, is a celebration of experimentation and fermentation. The concise, oft-changing menu includes bibim salads, rice bowls and handmade pastas. L, D (Tu-Sa). 5706 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 323.819.4344 $$ Map H14 Cassia This bustling Southeast Asian-inspired brasserie, set inside a 1930s art deco building, finds chef Bryant Ng (The Spice Table) serving dishes like Vietnamese pot au feu, black cod with anchovy broth, and grilled pork-belly vermicelli. Sister concept Esters Wine Shop & Bar is adjacent. D (nightly). 1314 7th St., Santa Monica, 310.393.6699 $$$ Map L8
208 N. Rodeo Drive - Beverly Hills - 90210 - 310 275 2428 www.208rodeo.com
Ye Olde King’s Head
World Famous British Pub, Restaurant, Shoppe & Bakery
orsa & Winston Chef/owner Josef Centeno draws on Japanese and Italian traditions at his acclaimed third restaurant. Select a vegetable, fish or meat grain bowl for lunch; for dinner, enjoy a daily changing six-course tasting menu with nightly supplements and an optional wine pairing. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa). 122 W. 4th St., downtown, 213.687.0300 $$$$ Map I16 Vespertine Chef Jordan Kahn’s mysterious, pricey “gastronomical experiment”—which tops L.A. Times restaurant critic Jonathan Gold’s 2017 list of the city’s top 101 restaurants—is disrupting the L.A. dining scene. Expect a space-age meal of 18-plus courses, some of which look more like art than food. Reservations must be made in advance online. D (Tu-Sa). 3599 Hayden Ave., Culver City, 323.320.4023, vespertine.la $$$$ Map L12
French AVEC NOUS Contemporary French bistro inside the recently revamped Viceroy L’Ermitage hotel offers dishes inspired by the French Riviera, such as escargots with persillade butter; sea scallops with cauliflower purée, samphire and orange; and whole oven-roasted cauliflower with vadouvan curry. B, L, D (daily). Viceroy L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, 9291 Burton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.860.8660 $$$ Map J12 Café Pinot This glass box of a restaurant adjacent to Central Library offers romantic outdoor dining, skyline views—from the bottom up—and contemporary Cal-French cuisine from the Patina Group. D (M-Sa). 700 W. 5th St., downtown, 213.239.6500 $$$ Map H16
British Fare, imported beers and world famous Fish & Chips. Heated patio. Call for soccer schedule. Stop by the gift shoppe for food and collectibles from the British Isles, including bone china, teapots, souvenir items, tea, candy, wine, freshly baked goods and much more. Open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner Weekdays 9 am | Weekends 8 am Happy Hour Afternoon Tea Karaoke Trivia Live Soccer
M-F 4-7 pm Mon-Sat 11:30 am-4 pm Su 9 pm Every Wed 8 pm Check Schedule
116 Santa Monica Blvd. Santa Monica (310) 451-1402 www.yeoldekingshead.com
Kendall’s Brasserie and Bar Located at the Music Center, Kendall’s is a convenient spot for before or after a performance. In addition to dishes with a contemporary flair, all the brasserie favorites are here (e.g., moules frites). The BoardRoom, a new Parisianinspired lounge with live music, is adjacent. L (M-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.7322 $$ Map H16 LE PETIT PARIS The L.A. iteration of David and Fanny Rolland’s original Le Petit Paris in Cannes is housed in the historic El Dorado building. By day, the brasserie is bright and tranquil, serving French classics such as steak frites and bourbon-vanilla crème brûlée, and at night it transforms into an upscale lounge, complete with a DJ. The Sunday brunch buffet menu offers an egg station, a chocolate fountain and bottomless mimosas. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 418 S. Spring St., downtown, 213.217.4445 $$$ Map I17
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DINING THE LITTLE DOOR For a candlelit dinner, this is the reservation ne plus ultra. Dine on rustic FrenchMediterranean dishes under the stars or by a crackling fireplace. The restaurant’s casual extension, Little Next Door, serves modern French brasserie fare. D (nightly). 8164 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.951.1210 $$$ Map I12 MÉLISSE At Mélisse, among L.A.’s highest-rated restaurants, chef/owner Josiah Citrin executes a sophisticated, modern French menu filled with luxe ingredients. Start with lobster bolognese with truffles before superb game dishes. D (Tu-Sa). 1104 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.395.0881 $$$$ Map M8 PATINA The Walt Disney Concert Hall pairs classicalmusic offerings with fine dining, thanks to its fine inhouse restaurant. Game dishes are a frequent presence on the menu. D (Tu-Su). 141 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.3331 $$$$ Map H16 PETIT TROIS Trois Mec’s French-bar-style spinoff offers an à la carte menu of classic dishes such as confit-fried chicken leg, croque monsieur and a delectable omelet with Boursin cheese. L, D (daily). 718 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.468.8916 $$$ Map H13 RÉPUBLIQUE In a landmark once occupied by Charlie Chaplin’s studio, fine-dining veteran Walter Manzke and pastry-chef wife Margarita turn out bistro classics (e.g., escargots, duck confit and steak frites) for a trendy clientele huddling at communal tables. Café B, L (daily); Br (Sa-Su). Bistro D (nightly). 624 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 310.362.6115 $$$ Map I13 TROIS MEC The foodie trinity of Ludo Lefebvre, Vinny Dotolo and Jon Shook is behind this hot restaurant in a 26-seat former pizzeria. Diners must purchase advance tickets via the restaurant’s website to enjoy Lefebvre’s prix-fixe, five-course meal. D (M-F). 716 N. Highland Ave., L.A., troismec.com $$$$ Map H13
ITALIAN ALIMENTO Zach Pollack, who recently opened Cosa Buona in Echo Park, is behind this tiny, hip space, where a clever menu includes addictive chicken-liver crostone with quince mostarda, crudo and pastas. The tortellini in brodo features dumplings filled with a hot broth that explodes in your mouth. D (Tu-Su). 1710 Silver Lake Blvd., L.A., 323.928.2888 $$$ Map east of W23 BESTIA Multiregional Italian restaurant in the hip Arts District serves up such “beast”-focused dishes as roasted marrow bone with spinach gnocchetti, breadcrumbs and aged balsamic, and a selection of housecured meats. D (nightly). 2121 E. 7th Place, downtown, 213.514.5724 $$$ Map east of J17 BOTTEGA LOUIE This palatial Italian restaurant, decked out in white marble, is a hip, noisy hall where young professionals convene over brick-oven-cooked pizzas. There’s a gourmet market and patisserie, too. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 700 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.802.1470 $$ Map I16 CECCONI’S This London-based restaurant caters to well-heeled clients who schmooze over Bellinis and cicchetti (small plates). B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 8764 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 310.432.2000 $$$ Map I12 CULINA The Four Seasons’ acclaimed Italian restaurant boasts coastal influences and a sleek crudo bar. Adjacent is new Vinoteca, an Italian-inspired wineand espresso-bar concept. B, D (daily); L (M-Sa); Br (Su). Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, 300 S. Doheny Drive, L.A., 310.860.4000 $$$ Map J12 DELUCA TRATTORIA This rustic, inviting Tuscan trattoria serves authentic Italian dishes such as polpette al forno con mozzarella, pappardelle all’uovo all’aragosta and tortellini di formaggio al pesto. D (M-Sa). 225 Richmond St., El Segundo, 310.640.7600 $$ Map C2
DRAGO CENTRO Chef Celestino Drago’s well-executed Italian fare and extensive wine list are presented in a contemporary and handsome space. L (M-F), D (nightly). 525 S. Flower St., downtown, 213.228.8998 $$$ Map H16 THE FACTORY KITCHEN Former Valentino chef Angelo Auriana turns his attention to a casual, industrial-chic setting in the Arts District. Fresh-made pastas, beautiful cheeses and cured meats, complemented by an inventive cocktail program, contribute to a daily changing menu. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1300 Factory Place, downtown, 213.996.6000 $$$ Map J17 FELIX Chef Evan Funke’s trattoria, Felix, boasts an open kitchen, a wood-fired pizza oven, a Tuscan grill and a glass-enclosed, temperature-controlled pasta laboratorio where Funke’s masterpieces—pappardelle, tonnarelli, strascinati—take shape before diners’ eyes. D (nightly). 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 424.387.8622, $$$ Map M9 JON & VINNY’S Family-friendly diner from chefs/ owners Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo has it all—pastries, pizza, pasta (made in-house) and meat entrées. Takeout and delivery are also available. B, L, D (daily). 412 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.334.3369 $$ Map B2 LA VECCHIA CUCINA Rustic Northern Italian in a laid-back bistro. More than a dozen pastas for dinner, plus pizzas, osso buco alla Romana and other traditional favorites. L, D (daily). 2654 Main St., Santa Monica, 310.399.7979 $$ Map M8 LOCANDA DEL LAGO Northern Italian restaurant featuring organic produce from Santa Monica farmers markets. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 231 Arizona Ave., Santa Monica, 310.451.3525 $$ Map L8 MATTEO’S An old favorite of the Rat Pack endures. Classic dishes include mussels in white wine and osso buco Milanese. D (Tu-Su). 2321 Westwood Blvd., L.A., 310.475.4521 $$ Map K10 OFFICINE BRERA From the team behind the Factory Kitchen, this stylish trattoria serves a daily changing, Northern Italy-inspired menu in a rustic-meets-contemporary space. The rice dishes, spit-roasted meats and handmade pastas are superb. L (M-F), D (nightly). 1331 E. 6th St., downtown, 213.553.8006 $$$ Map J17 OSTERIA MOZZA Famed L.A.-based bread maker Nancy Silverton teamed up with affable Mario Batali on Mozza’s group of contemporary Italian restaurants. Osteria Mozza is a more sophisticated dining room in which to experience the repertoire of these great transcontinental talents. D (nightly). 6602 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.0100 $$$ Map H13 PIZZERIA MOZZA/MOZZA2GO The more relaxed sibling of Nancy Silverton and Mario Batali’s Osteria Mozza, Pizzeria Mozza features pizzas with Mediterranean ingredients, cheeses and salumi plates and rustic daily specials. Call ahead for delivery or takeout from Mozza2Go. L, D (daily). Pizzeria Mozza: 641 N. Highland Ave., L.A., 323.297.0101. Mozza2Go: 6610 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.297.1130 $$ Map H13 ROSSOBLU Chef Steve Samson (Sotto) and wife Dina recently opened this gorgeous Italian restaurant in City Market South, a new complex in the up-and-coming Fashion District, where he serves Bolognese family favorites. Pastas and salumi are made in workshops visible from the cellar wine room, which is available for private dining. D (nightly). 1124 San Julian St., downtown, 213.749.10990 $$$ Map J16 SOTTO This restaurant specializes in regionally inspired Italian cooking, including beautifully executed rustic trattoria dishes; soft, chewy Neapolitan pizzas cooked in an 8-ton wood-burning oven; and intriguing housemade pastas. D (nightly). 9575 W. Pico Blvd., L.A., 310.277.0210 $$$ Map J11
TERRONI Reliable Southern Italian cooking, including excellent thin-crust pizza, from a Toronto-based chain. Great happy-hour specials. Downtown: L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). L.A.: L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 802 S. Spring St., downtown, 213.221.7234; 7605 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.954.0300 $$ Map I16, J13 UNION James Beard Award-nominated chef Bruce Kalman (who also helms Knead & Co. pasta bar at Grand Central Market) brings tastes of Northern Italy to this intimate spot in Old Pasadena. Standout dishes include Hope Ranch mussels with guanciale and spaghetti alla chitarra enhanced with San Marzano tomatoes, garlic and a hint of Fresno chili. D (nightly). 37 E. Union St., Pasadena, 626.795.5841 $$ Map Q20 VALENTINO For more than 40 years, Piero Selvaggio has maintained his flagship’s status as a pre-eminent temple of Italian gastronomy. A telephone-book-sized wine list—often cited as America’s best—is supported by a cellar containing more than 100,000 bottles. L (F), D (Tu-Sa). 3115 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.829.4313 $$$$ Map L9
JAPANESE ISE-SHIMA Located in the Miyako Hybrid Hotel in Old Town Torrance, Ise-Shima provides fresh sushi and other exciting Japanese dishes, recalling the array of seafood and marine delicacies Japan’s Ise Shima region offers. The expansive restaurant consists of a sushi bar, lounge space, large communal table and terrace. B, L, D (daily). 21381 S. Western Ave., Torrance, 310.320.6700 $$ Map M14 KATANA Sunset Strip restaurant with sushi bar and robata-style cuisine: open-flame-grilled meat, vegetables, seafood. Stylish rooms, patio. Upscale-casual dress code. L (M-F), D (nightly). 8439 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.650.8585 $$$ Map H12 KATSUYA Sushi chef Katsuya Uechi turns out exotic delicacies in sultry spaces by designer Philippe Starck. L (varies by location), D (nightly). 11777 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, 310.207.8744; 6300 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.871.8777; 702 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.244.5900; L.A. Live, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 323.525.2400 $$$ Map K9, H14, northeast of T23, I15 MATSUHISA Superchef Nobu Matsuhisa’s relatively modest original flagship incorporates luxurious Western ingredients and Latin American spices. Monkfish liver pâté with caviar, and lamb chops with miso anticucho sauce are just a couple of his creations. L (M-F), D (nightly). 129 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.659.9639 $$$$ Map I12 MTN Chef Travis Lett (Gjelina/Gjusta) is behind this new California izakaya, pronounced “mountain,” where foodies perch on bar stools to dine on fare like charred Japanese sweet potato and slurp up bowls of housemade ramen. D (nightly). 1305 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 424.465.3313 $$ Map N9 NOBU The flagship of chef Nobu Matsuhisa offers an extensive menu of traditional and avant-garde sushi, including many dishes with beguiling Peruvian accents. West Hollywood: D (nightly). Malibu: B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 903 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.657.5711; Nobu Malibu, 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.9140 $$$$ Map H12, east of A1 Q SUSHI The omakase-only experience at this intimate sushi bar showcases the artistry and discipline of chef Hiroyuki Naruke in items like seared toro and monkfish as rich as foie gras. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa). 521 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.225.6285 $$$$ Map I16 ROBATA BAR Japanese grilling from the Sushi Roku, Katana and BOA team. Striking design by Dodd Mitchell. D (nightly). 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.458.4771 $$$ Map L8
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Dining Mexican/Latin Broken Spanish The upscale sister of B.S. Taqueria, this “modern Mexican” restaurant near L.A. Live serves classically trained chef Ray Garcia’s innovative twists on traditional dishes. D (nightly). 1050 S. Flower St., Suite 102, downtown, 213.749.1460 $$$ Map I15 B.S. Taqueria The colorful setting at this Ray Garcia-helmed spot—a casual sibling of Broken Spanish, above—offers the right vibe for lemon-pepper chicken chicharrones or clam-and-lardo tacos. A B.S. Taqueria concession stand serves tacos and churros at Staples Center. L (M-F), D (nightly). 514 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.622.3744 $$ Map H15 DÍA DE CAMPO Part of Blackhouse Hospitality (Little Sister, Abigaile, Steak & Whisky), this restaurant offers innovative Mexican dishes such as chocolate-duck quesadillas, chorizo-stuffed dates and wood-grilled lobster with chili butter in a sexy surf-lodge setting. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1238 Hermosa Ave., Hermosa Beach, 310.379.1829 $$ Map L13 Gracias Madre Organic, plant-based Mexican fare is served at this beautiful restaurant (the patio’s ambiance can’t be beat) from the team behind Café Gratitude. Inventive dishes like coconut-ceviche tostadas and flautas de papas please vegans and omnivores alike. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8905 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.978.2170 $$ Map I12
ROSALINÉ Acclaimed chef Ricardo Zarate is back with a sunny new restaurant—named after his mother—that introduces the “next phase of Peruvian dining” (think lima-bean salad; aceitunas, pictured above; chicharron de paiche; and chaufa paella in vegetarian and pescatarian versions). Sip delicious Peruvian cocktails by Jeremy Lake on the beautiful, boisterous back patio, or grab a seat at the ceviche bar, where you can watch chefs prepare creative dishes that change weekly. 8479 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.297.9500 $$$ Map I12
Roku Sunset Strip hot spot from the team behind Sushi Roku presents elevated teppanyaki prepared at interactive grill tables, as well as sushi, omakase offerings and an extensive selection of Japanese whiskeys. L (M-F), D (nightly). 9201 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2060 $$$ Map H12
Mediterranean
Estérel The restaurant at the Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills features a French garden, Le Jardin, which offers alfresco seating, as well as an indoor private-party area called the Aviary, an open-plan main dining room, two private dining rooms and the adjacent Riviera 31 lounge. B, D (daily); L (M-F); Br (Sa-Su). 8555 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.358.3979 $$$ Map I12
A.O.C. Explore a Mediterranean-inspired menu at the eatery that pioneered two L.A. culinary trends—the small-plates format and the wine bar—from James Beard Award-winning chef/owner Suzanne Goin. Try the addictive bacon-wrapped, Parmesan-stuffed dates. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8700 W. 3r St., L.A., 310.859.9859 $$ Map I12
GJELINA Under the direction of talented young chef Travis Lett (also behind Gjusta and new Mtn), Cal-Med small plates and pizzas are served to chic Westsiders. It’s one of Venice’s most popular restaurants and the neighborhood’s liveliest patio. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1429 $$ Map N9
The Belvedere The Peninsula Beverly Hills’ elegant restaurant has a modernized interior, a lovely terrace and a Mediterranean menu from executive chef David Codney. The Champagne brunch is a don’t-miss. B, D (daily); L (M-Sa); Br (Su). 9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.788.2306 $$$$ Map J11
Lucques Chef/owner Suzanne Goin (A.O.C.) delivers the next generation of Cal-Med cuisine, which includes dishes such as grilled salmon wrapped in grape leaves and served with green rice, feta, labneh and caper salsa. L (Tu-Sa), D (nightly). 8474 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.655.6277 $$$ Map I13
BOWERY BUNGALOW Restaurateur George AbouDaoud honors his Middle Eastern heritage at this Silver Lake restaurant by applying Silk Road flavors to all-American concepts like Southern baby-back ribs and a Brooklyn-style Reuben sandwich. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 4156 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 323.663.1500 $$ Map south of W23
Miro Executive chef Gavin Mills oversees a pan-Mediterranean menu of shareable dishes such as wood-fired pizzas, charcuterie and pasta at this stylish Financial District restaurant. Downstairs is a glamorous whiskey lounge and an invitation-only “vault” filled with some of the world’s rarest labels. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 888 Wilshire Blvd., downtown, 213.988.8880 $$$ Map I16
Sushi Roku Nouvelle Japanese, sleek decor and a creative menu. L, D (daily). 1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.458.4771; 33 Miller Alley, Pasadena, 626.683.3000 $$$ Map L8, Q19
CARLA CHOY
Crossroads kitchen Chef/partner Tal Ronnen creates exclusively plant-based dishes, many based on nonvegan comfort-food classics. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 8284 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.782.9245 $$$ Map H12
Red o Rick Bayless, one of America’s leading authorities on Mexican cuisine, is culinary director of these sexy eateries, where creative dishes are grounded in tradition. WeHo: D (nightly). Santa Monica: L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 8155 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.655.5009; 1541 Ocean Ave., Suite 120, Santa Monica, 310.458.1600 $$$ Map I12, L8 salazar This trendy taco destination—a colorful desert oasis set in a reworked Frogtown auto-body shop—specializes in outdoor dining, grilled meats and fun drinks. Pair tasty tacos with aguas frescas and cocktails. L, D (Tu-Su); Br (Sa-Su). 2490 Fletcher Drive, L.A., salazarla.com $$ Map southeast of W23 Tallula’s At this colorful new entry from Rustic Canyon’s Zoe Nathan, Josh Loeb and chef Jeremy Fox, dine on fresh Mexican fare (think: grilled swordfish tacos, yellowtail ceviche and organic turkey enchiladas) by the beach. Pair with refreshing cocktails like the passion fruit mezcal margarita. D (nightly). 118 Entrada Drive, Santa Monica, 310.526.0027 $$$ Map L8
Pan-Asian THE DISTRICT BY HANNAH AN One of the celebrated An sisters—her family introduced Beverly Hills’ Crustacean—offers cuisine that reflects her Vietnamese heritage while incorporating California sensibilities. Dishes such as Wok Lobster with handmade noodles and Vietnamese chicken curry are enjoyed with Southeast Asia-inspired cocktails. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 8722 W. 3rd St., L.A., 310.278.2345 $$$ Map I12 little sister At these trendy spots from chef Tin Vuong, sophisticated accents are added to pan-Asian cuisine. Signatures include deep-fried Balinese meatballs with banana ketchup, Myanmar okra curry and salt-andpepper lobster. M.B.: L (F-Su), D (nightly). Downtown: B, L, D (daily). 1131 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.2096; 523 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.628.3146 $$ Map L13, I16 lukshon Sang Yoon of Father’s Office is behind this Southeast Asian eatery with a selection of craft beers and a Far East-inspired cocktail program. The crispy whole market fish is not to be missed. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa). 3239 Helms Ave., Culver City, 310.202.6808 $$$ Map K12
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Dining contemporary Hawaiian-inspired restaurants with stylish tropical decor. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 6363 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills, 818.888.4801; 641 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.356.4066 $$$ Map west of A1, Q21
Mastro’s Steakhouse Swanky “steakhouse with personality.” Bone-in filet reigns; warm butter cake melts in your mouth. Penthouse at Mastro’s is an upstairs lounge. D (nightly). 246 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.888.8782 $$$ Map J11
Son of a GUN Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, the meat-loving chefs at Animal, turn to the sea for new inspiration. They cook up small shareable plates, such as miniature lobster rolls and shrimp-toast sandwiches, in a nautically themed space. L, D (daily). 8370 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.782.9033 $$$ Map I12
Morton’s Clubby ambiance, show-and-tell menu, huge portions. Beverly Hills, Woodland Hills: D (nightly). Downtown, Burbank: L (M-F), D (nightly). 435 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.246.1501; 6250 Canoga Ave., Woodland Hills, 818.703.7272; 735 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.553.4566; The Pinnacle, 3400 W. Olive Ave., Burbank, 818.238.0424 $$$ Map I11, west of A1, I16, T20
Housemade charcuterie at Rossoblu (p. 68)
wp24 From its 24th-floor roost, WP24 proves that Wolfgang Puck, who pioneered Asian fusion, has still got the goods. Highlights include XO seafood dumplings and steamed bao filled with pork belly. Restaurant/lounge concept Nest at WP24 is adjacent. Dining room D (Tu-Sa). Nest D (nightly). The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, 900 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.743.8824 $$$$ Map I15
Seafood BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE Putting a “California twist on East Hampton summer lobster bakes,” this narrow restaurant near the Santa Monica Pier specializes in dishes such as oysters on the half shell, New England clam chowder and lobster rolls. Sit outside to take in Pacific views. L, D (daily). 355 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.576.3474 $$$ Map L8 cafe del rey Ogle impressive pleasure boats in the marina at this waterfront restaurant with plentiful fresh catch, a raw bar and prime cuts of steak. Stop in for its great nightly happy hour, too. L (M–F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 4451 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.823.6395 $$$ Map N9 Duke’s Malibu Named after the father of international surfing, Duke Kahanamoku, this oceanfront restaurant captures the spirit of aloha. Not to be outshone by the spectacular views is the cuisine, which features a daily selection of fresh fish and tropical cocktails. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.0777 $$ Map west of K7 Enterprise fish co. Established in 1979, this restaurant is a local favorite when it comes to seafood. Wild-caught fish, fresh seafood and steaks are cooked over a mesquite charcoal grill in an exhibition kitchen set in the middle of the dining room. L, D (daily). 174 Kinney St., Santa Monica, 310.392.8366 $$$ Map M9 FISHING WITH DYNAMITE Chef David LeFevre (the Arthur J, M.B. Post) loads his menu with East Coast inspirations. Among the old-school small plates in this tiny, charming restaurant are New England-style clam chowder with Nueske’s bacon and Maryland blue-crab cakes with housemade pickles and remoulade. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1148 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.893.6299 $$$ Map L13 Providence Michael Cimarusti transforms sustainable seafood into oft-changing dishes at this refined restaurant, which the Los Angeles Times rates as one of the best in the city. Outstanding cocktails complement Michelin-recognized cuisine. L (F), D (nightly). 5955 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.460.4170 $$$$ Map I14 Roy’s James Beard Award-winning chef Roy Yamaguchi, who pioneered innovative Pacific Rim cuisine in L.A. more than 30 years ago, is behind this chain of
Steak alexander’s steakhouse This ultraluxurious interpretation of the classic American steakhouse incorporates Asian influences. Certified Angus beef and domestic and imported wagyu star on the menu. Bull & Barrel bar concept offers the menu and a whiskeyforward cocktail menu. D (nightly). 111 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, 626.486.1111 $$$ Map Q20 The Arthur J This Manhattan Beach steakhouse by chef David LeFevre (M.B. Post, Fishing With Dynamite) offers a classic menu that will delight any carnivore, but the seafood dishes and sides-with-a-twist are excellent as well. D (nightly). 903 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.878.9620 $$$$ Map C2 Baltaire Helmed by executive chef Travis Strickland, this sophisticated Brentwood restaurant offers prime steaks, wines by the glass, old-school charm and sun-orstars dining on its 2,500-square-foot terrace. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 11647 San Vicente Blvd., L.A., 424.273.1660 $$$$ Map J12 Boa Steakhouse Way hip, way fine steakhouse. Steak rubs and dips; out-there cocktails on a recently revamped bar menu. New globally inspired burgers (e.g., tuna and ramen) are highlights on the lunch menu. Santa Monica: D (nightly). West Hollywood: L (M-F), D (nightly). 101 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.899.4466; 9200 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.278.2050 $$$ Map M8, H12 CUT A collaboration between Getty Center architect Richard Meier and Wolfgang Puck, Cut is the place to savor genuine wagyu beef steaks or dry-aged Nebraska beef. D (M-Sa). Beverly Wilshire Hotel, 9500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.276.8500 $$$ Map J11 THE Grill on the Alley The Grill is a venerable industry hangout, where polished waiters deliver steaks, Cobb salads and other old-school fare. Beverly Hills: L (M-Sa), D (nightly). Westlake Village: L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 9560 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.276.0615; 120 E. Promenade Way, Westlake Village, 805.418.1760 $$$ Map I11, west of A1 L.A. prime Enjoy city views and wet-aged steaks at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites’ 35th-floor restaurant. An award-winning wine list complements a surf-and-turf menu. D (nightly). The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, 404 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 310.624.1000 $$$$ Map I16 MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB At this on-the-waterfront eatery—the views are pure Malibu—starters like ahi tartare and caviar are followed by fresh fish, whole Maine lobster and expertly prepared steaks. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.454.4357 $$$$ Map west of K7
Musso & Frank Grill Hollywood’s oldest restaurant (1919). Enjoy flannel cakes, lobster Thermidor and Welsh rarebit with the martini; legend has it that this place invented the drink. B, L (Tu-Sa); D (Tu-Su). 6667 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.7788 $$ Map H13 Nick + Stef’s Bunker Hill institution Nick + Stef’s is a midcentury-modern vision whose menu includes showstopping meat dishes, as well as an expanded seafood menu. USDA prime beef is aged on-site in a glassencased aging chamber. L (M-F), D (nightly). Wells Fargo Building, 330 S. Hope St., downtown, 213.680.0330 $$$ Map H16 The Stinking Rose True to its motto, “We season our garlic with food,” this Restaurant Row mainstay offers eclectic, garlicky menu options and premium steaks. Pianist Gary Sherer performs Th-Sa evenings in the Gar Bar. L, D (daily). 55 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.652.7673 $$ Map I12 STK The One Group’s renowned steakhouse has checked into the W hotel in Westwood. Expect starters like tuna tartare with Hass avocado, soy-honey emulsion and taro chips, followed by signature steaks and seafood platters for the table. D (nightly). W Los Angeles— West Beverly Hills, 930 Hilgard Ave., L.A., 310.659.3535 $$$ Map J10
Thai jitlada Thai The wait for a table is long at this top-rated restaurant in East Hollywood’s Thai Town, but the southern Thai specialties, such as moo mae chan (grilled pork southern-style with papaya salad and sticky rice), are authentic and exceptional. L, D (Tu-Su). 5233 1/2 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.667.9809 $$ Map W22 Natalee Thai Traditional Thai dishes are served amid edgy, modern decor. Popular entrées include Nutty Chicken (a spicy combo of chicken, onion and dried chilies) and a sole filet in red curry sauce. Veggie lovers favor the spicy maha jumlong curry. L, D (daily). 10101 Venice Blvd., Culver City, 310.202.7003; 998 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.855.9380 $ Map L11, I11 Night + Market For authentic Thai food, head to either the WeHo or Silver Lake location (the latter is Night + Market Song) of this hip, celebrity-frequented spot from L.A.-born chef Kris Yenbamroong, who was named one of 2016’s best new chefs by Food & Wine. WeHo: L (Tu-Th), D (Tu-Su). Silver Lake: L (M-F), D (M-Sa). 9043 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.275.9724; 3322 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.665.5899 $$ Map I12, south of W23
where? Log on anywhere. socalpulse.com
ED ANDERSON
Spanish THE BAZAAR BY JOSé andrÉs Star chef José Andrés brings a whimsical Spanish-style dining experience to the SLS Hotel. Cuisine ranges from rustic fare to the cutting-edge creations that have made Spain a culinary leader. New concept Somni (formerly Saam) is due to debut this winter. D (nightly). 465 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.246.5555 $$$ Map H16
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RESTAURANTS CITY INDEX OUR SUPERGUIDE BY AREA, WITH CROSS REFERENCE TO LISTINGS BY CUISINE
BEVERLY HILLS
DOWNTOWN
JON & VINNY’S (Italian).................................. 68
TALLULA’S (Mexican/Latin).............................. 69
208 RODEO (California).................................... 66
71ABOVE (American)............................................. 64
ODYS + PENELOPE (American)...................64
VALENTINO (Italian)........................................... 68
AVEC NOUS (French).......................................... 67
BESTIA (Italian)..........................................................68
PLAN CHECK (American).................................64
YE OLDE KING’S HEAD (British).............. 66
THE BELVEDERE (Mediterranean).............. 69
BOTTEGA LOUIE (Italian).............................. 68
RÉPUBLIQUE (French)....................................... 68
SOUTH BAY/LONG BEACH
CULINA (Italian).................................................... 68
BROKEN SPANISH (Mexican).........................69
LA CIENEGA BOULEVARD
ABIGAILE (Brew/Pub).................................................66
CUT (Steak)............................................................... 70
B.S. TAQUERIA (Mexican).................................69
RESTAURANT ROW
THE ARTHUR J (Steak)........................................... 70
CAFÉ PINOT (French)........................................... 67
THE BAZAAR (Spanish).................................... 70
CLIFTON’S (American)......................................... 64
INK.WELL (American)........................................... 64
DRAGO CENTRO (Italian).................................68
MATSUHISA (Japanese)..................................... 68
FACTORY KITCHEN (Italian)..........................68
MORTON’S (Steak).............................................. 70
FUNDAMENTAL DTLA (American)............ 64
NOBU (Japanese)..................................................... 68
KATSUYA (Japanese)..............................................68
THE STINKING ROSE (Steak)...................... 70
KENDALL’S BRASSERIE (French).............. 67
MALIBU
L.A. PRIME (Steak)............................................. 70
DUKE’S MALIBU (Seafood)............................. 70
LE PETIT PARIS (French)................................... 67
MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB (Steak)........... 70
BEVERLY BOULEVARD
LEDLOW/P.Y.T. (American).............................. 64
MR CHOW (Chinese)............................................ 66
3RD STREET
LITTLE SISTER (Pan-Asian)............................. 69
NOBU MALIBU (Japanese)............................... 68
MELROSE AVENUE
THE MIGHTY (American).................................... 64
MARINA DEL REY
A.O.C. (Mediterranean)......................................... 69
MIRO (Mediterranean)...............................................69
CAFE DEL REY (Seafood)................................ 70
BAO DIM SUM (Chinese).................................. 66
MORTON’S (Steak).................................................70
ROC (Chinese)...............................................................66
CROSSROADS KITCHEN (Mediterranean)...
NICK + STEF’S (Steak)............................................ 70
PASADENA
69
OFFICINE BRERA (Italian)............................ 68
ALEXANDER’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak)... 70
MORTON’S (Steak).............................................. 70 ROY’S (Seafood)...................................................... 70
FREDS AT BARNEYS (American).............. 64 THE GRILL ON THE ALLEY (Steak)...... 70 JEAN-GEORGES BEVERLY HILLS (California)................................................... 66 MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE (Steak)......... 70 MORTON’S (Steak).............................................. 70 MR CHOW (Chinese)........................................... 66 NATALEE THAI (Thai)...................................... 70 SPAGO (California)................................................ 66 VIVIANE (California)............................................ 66
BARAN’S 2239 (California)....................................66 DELUCA TRATTORIA (Italian)......................... 68 DÍA DE CAMPO (Mexican).................................... 69 FISHING WITH DYNAMITE (Seafood).... 70 ISE-SHIMA (Japanese)......................................... 68 LITTLE SISTER (Pan-Asian)............................. 69 LOVE & SALT (California).................................. 66 M.B. POST (American).........................................64 SIMMZY’S (Brew/Pub)......................................... 66 THE STRAND HOUSE (California).............. 66
VALLEY THE FRONT YARD (California)..................... 66 THE GRILL ON THE ALLEY (Steak)....... 70 JOAN’S ON THIRD (American)....................64
THE DISTRICT BY HANNAH AN (Pan-
ORSA & WINSTON (Eclectic)........................ 67
DIN TAI FUNG (Chinese)................................... 66
Asian).............................................................................. 69
PATINA (French)........................................................68
KATSUYA (Japanese)........................................... 68
SIMMZY’S (Brew/Pub)......................................... 66
ESTÉREL (Mediterranean).................................. 69
PLAN CHECK (American)................................... 64
ROY’S (Seafood)...................................................... 70
YANG CHOW (Chinese)........................................ 67
GRACIAS MADRE (Mexican)........................ 69
Q SUSHI (Japanese)..................................................68
SUSHI ROKU (Japanese).................................... 69
VENICE
JOAN’S ON THIRD (American)................... 64
REDBIRD (American)............................................. 64
TEA ROSE GARDEN (British)...................... 66
FELIX (Italian).......................................................... 68
ROSSOBLU (Italian)...............................................68
UNION (Italian)........................................................ 68
GJELINA (Mediterranean)................................... 69
SALAZAR (Mexican)...............................................69
YANG CHOW (Chinese)........................................ 67
MTN (Japanese)......................................................... 68
TERRONI (Italian).....................................................68
SANTA MONICA
PLANT FOOD + WINE (California)............ 66
THE LITTLE DOOR (French)......................... 68 LUCQUES (Mediterranean)................................ 69 OSTERIA MOZZA (Italian)............................. 68 PIZZERIA MOZZA (Italian)........................... 68 PROVIDENCE (Seafood)................................... 70 RED O (Mexican).................................................... 69 ROC (Chinese).......................................................... 66 ROSALINÉ (Latin)................................................ 69 SON OF A GUN (Seafood).............................. 70 TERRONI (Italian)................................................. 68
BRENTWOOD BALTAIRE (Steak)................................................ 70 KATSUYA (Japanese)........................................... 68 TAVERN (California)............................................. 66
CENTURY CITY CRAFT (American)................................................. 64 HINOKI & THE BIRD (California)................ 66
WP24 (Pan-Asian)......................................................70
BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE (Seafood).. 70
SIMMZY’S (Brew/Pub)......................................... 66
YANG CHOW (Chinese)........................................ 67
BOA (Steak)............................................................... 70
HOLLYWOOD/EASTSIDE
THE TASTING KITCHEN (California)........ 66
CASSIA (Eclectic)................................................... 67
ALIMENTO (Italian).................................................68
ENTERPRISE FISH CO. (Seafood)............. 70
BAROO (Eclectic)....................................................... 67
FATHER’S OFFICE (Brew/Pub).................... 66
BIRCH (American)..................................................... 64
THE INDEPENDENCE (American)............... 64
BOWERY BUNGALOW (Mediterranean)...69
JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN
GWEN (American)..................................................... 64
TAVERN (American)..............................................64
JITLADA THAI (Thai)...........................................70
LA VECCHIA CUCINA (Italian)................... 68
WEST HOLLYWOOD BOA (Steak)............................................................... 70 CAVATINA (California)........................................ 66 CECCONI’S (Italian)............................................ 68 DELILAH (American)............................................64
KATSUYA (Japanese)..............................................68
LOCANDA DEL LAGO (Italian)....................68
MUSSO & FRANK GRILL (Steak).............. 70
MÉLISSE (French).................................................. 68
EVELEIGH (California)................................................66 KATANA (Japanese).............................................. 68 NIGHT + MARKET (Thai)................................ 70 ROKU (Japanese)..................................................... 69
NIGHT + MARKET SONG (Thai).................70
MICHAEL’S (California)....................................... 66
PALEY (California).....................................................66
PLAN CHECK (American).................................64
WESTSIDE
CULVER CITY
PETIT TROIS (French)........................................ 68
RED O (Mexican)..................................................... 69
MATTEO’S (Italian)............................................... 68
FATHER’S OFFICE (Brew/Pub).................. 66
TROIS MEC (French)...............................................68
ROBATA BAR (Japanese).................................. 68
PLAN CHECK (American).................................64
LUKSHON (Pan-Asian)........................................ 69
LA BREA/MID-CITY
RUSTIC CANYON (California)........................ 66
ROC (Chinese)............................................................... 67
NATALEE THAI (Thai)...................................... 70
ANIMAL (American)..............................................64
SUSHI ROKU (Japanese).................................... 69
SOTTO (Italian)....................................................... 68
VESPERTINE (Eclectic)...................................... 67
COMMERSON (California)...................................66
TAR & ROSES (California)................................. 66
STK (Steak)......................................................................... 70
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
MENU HIGHLIGHTS Starters Grilled Octopus Mussels Cataplana Scallop Crudo Lamb Kefta Duck Confit Stuffed Portobello
ESTÉREL RESTAURANT Welcome to the South of France! Located in the Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, the beautiful Provence-inspired Estérel Restaurant boasts a range of dining settings in which to enjoy Executive Chef Pete Manfredini’s seasonally driven cuisine. Taking inspiration in the traditional French Gastronomy as well as his Italian background, he takes classics and revisit them with the modernism and boldness of the unique California touch, focusing on organic and local grown ingredients. In the openplan main dining room, high-backed booths and deep blue walls create a sophisticated atmosphere, and an exhibition kitchen with a woodburning oven provides a show. Guests can sip an fresh aperitif outdoor in Le Jardin at Estérel, a Provençal garden patio with colorful seating ideal for alfresco afternoon and evening dining. The Aviary, private part of the patio, is ideal for intimate cocktail parties or sit-down dinners for 20 to 50 guests, along with two private dining rooms. And continue the night at Riviera 31, Sofitel Los Angeles’ famous bar lounge, for exclusive mixology cocktails and daily live performances! B,L,D (daily); Br (Su).
Entrees Mushroom Risotto Ciopino 1/ 2 Grilled Lobster Tuna Putanesca Filet Mignon Lamb Rack
Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, 8555 Beverly Blvd., L.A.
310.358.3979 esterelrestaurant.com
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DINE_W
SPECIAL PROMOTION
MENU HIGHLIGHTS Starters Pan-roasted bone marrow Baked Blue Point oysters Rockefeller Blue fin tuna tartare Side Dishes Crispy Brussels sprout Heirloom fingerling gratin Vermont white mac and cheese
L.A. PRIME Located on the 35th floor of the Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites, the award-winning L.A. Prime invites diners to experience a culinary adventure in a relaxed atmosphere with refined service. Known for its innovative and edgy cuisine, L.A. Prime offers Chicago stockyards wetaged prime beef steaks, as well as beautiful fresh seasonal fish and shellfish. Dishes are enhanced with local produce and paired with wines from an award-winning list recognized by Wine Spectator. Our awardwinning culinary team of chefs have created a masterful menu of artfully presented dishes made with fresh ingredients to please the palate. Stars wink through floor-to-ceiling windows as diners sit back, relax and enjoy all that downtown has to offer. D (nightly).
Steaks Bone-in Delmonico rib-eye 22 oz Primal-cut New York strip 14 oz Bone-in filet mignon 14 oz Composed Entrees 3-pound Maine lobster Double-thick-cut Niman Ranch pork chop Grilled free-range Colorado lamb chops Seared Mano de Leon jumbo scallop Pan-roasted wild king salmon Chilean sea bass SautĂŠed shrimp scampi King oyster mushroom
404 S. Figueroa St., downtown
213.624.1000
FRESH SEAFOOD AND PRIME STEAKS
thebonaventure.com
FRESH SEAFOOD AND PRIME STEAKS
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LADINING DELUCA TRATTORIA Deluca is a classic, country-style Tuscan trattoria renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine and rustic décor. Its menu is filled with traditional dishes that bring forth the true culinary spirit of Italy, such as polpette al forno con mozzarella, pappardelle all’uovo all’aragosta and tortellini di formaggio al pesto. Each dish is made to order from scratch with locally sourced ingredients, just like Nonna made and Momma makes today. Visit the restaurant in downtown El Segundo to gather with friends over a delicious meal and to immerse yourself in Florentine culture and history. For the Deluca team, bringing joy to guests through food, wine and warm hospitality is more than just rewarding—it’s truly heart-warming. D (M-Sa).
225 Richmond St., El Segundo 310.640.7600 • delucapasta.com
THE STINKING ROSE— A GARLIC RESTAURANT The Stinking Rose has been a mainstay on the dining scene since 1996. The restaurant’s latest addition is a supplemental Garlic Stake menu, which includes such premium beef specialties as the Little Devil petite filet mignon, Dracula’s Porterhouse (a carnivore’s dream of the perfectly prepared cut, with New York and filet mignon cooked separately), a bone-in filet mignon and the newest addition, a ribeye steak. The Gar Bar is the perfect setting to enjoy an evening of standards and pop songs performed by piano man Gary Sherer, who tickles the ivories Thursday through Saturday nights. Settle into a cozy booth or find a seat at the bar and enjoy an evening of fine food and pure entertainment. L, D (daily). 55 N. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills 310.652.7673 • thestinkingrose.com
MATTEO’S RESTAURANT Frequented in its early days by celebs including Frank Sinatra and the rest of the Rat Pack, Matteo’s Restaurant has redefined its look and cuisine while maintaining its status as the epitome of classic cool. Now in its 50th year, Matteo’s continues to offer unique seasonal fare in a homey and hip setting. Executive chef Antonio Orlando’s menu features sumptuous, cosmopolitan Italian fare like veal tartufato, lamb and weekly game specials. Happy hour specials Tuesday through Friday and on Sunday include half-off drinks and a $7-and-under bar menu. Gluten-free and vegetarian options also available. For lunch, visit adjacent cafe Hoboken, open weekdays. D (Tu-Su).
2321 Westwood Blvd., L.A. 310.475.4521 • matteosla.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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LADINING JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN JFAT’s family of restaurants is known for its artisanal approach to popular dishes. Certified green by the Green Restaurants Association, Jimmy’s strives to use locally raised, organic and sustainable ingredients and has partnered with the Long Beach Aquarium-based “Seafood for the Future” program. Enjoy brews, cocktails and wines before indulging in menu highlights such as buttermilk fried chicken or spicy tequila shrimp pasta, charred corn and pepitas. The new Santa Monica location is located just a few blocks from the pier. Weekly happy hour and Champagne Sunday brunch available. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1733 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica • 424.292.5222 The Village at Westfield Topanga, 6250 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Woodland Hills • 818.369.0005 j-fat.com
LOCANDA DEL LAGO Locanda del Lago blends organic produce from the Santa Monica Farmers Market and many other local purveyors with Italian ingredients to create dishes from Northern Italy’s Lombardy region. This family-run restaurant attracts celebrities, foodies, locals and travelers with its authentic and traditional recipes. Dishes feature high-quality meats and pastas such as all-natural Niman Ranch veal shank, salt baked wild sea bass, housemade ravioli and home-made buckwheat pappardelle. A full vegetarian menu is also available. Enjoy the breads, desserts and gelato, made in-house daily. The warm interior and sidewalk patio overlooking the bustling Third Street Promenade also offers a daily happy hour that features specialty cocktails and local and Italian wines. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 231 Arizona Ave., Santa Monica 310.451.3525 • lagosantamonica.com
THE DISTRICT BY HANNAH AN Hannah An—one of the celebrated An sisters whose family introduced Beverly Hills’ beloved Crustacean—celebrates her Vietnamese heritage at her sophisticated yet welcoming West 3rd Street restaurant, “where strangers become family.” The menu celebrates the five elements of Vietnamese cuisine—spicy, sour, bitter, salty and sweet—in dishes that are inspired by both street vendors and French-trained Vietnamese chefs. Standout lunch and dinner options include Wok Lobster with Hannah’s signature handmade noodles, shaken beef and oxtail pho. For brunch, the soft-shell-crab Benedict and pork-belly breakfast banh mi are must-try dishes, and cocktails infused with Southeast Asian flavors complement every meal. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su).
8722 W. 3rd St., L.A. 310.278.2345 • thedistrictbyha.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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/ ENTERTAINMENT
Beyond the Surface Pacific Standard Time: LA/ LA, a Getty-led exploration of Latin American and Latino art in dialogue with Los Angeles, comprises groundbreaking shows at dozens of participating Southern California cultural institutions. As part of the ambitious collaboration, the Skirball Cultural Center (p. 84) commissioned L.A.-based artist Ken Gonzales-Day to create a new body of work examining the rich local mural landscape. The resulting Surface Tension by Ken Gonzales-Day: Murals, Signs, and Mark-Making in L.A. features more than 140 photographs of street art and graffiti, including the above photo, Danny, of a Levi Ponce mural. The exhibition illustrates how murals portray diverse communities and how Angelenos, in turn, use murals to express their values, politics and heritage.
SPECIAL EVENTS
GUIDELINES
LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW Dec. 1-10 Test-drive nearly 100 of the auto industry’s latest models and explore 1,000 vehicles at this annual car show. Kids can enjoy video games, virtual-reality demos and play zones. Check website for hours. $5-$30, under 6 free. Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 310.444.1850, laautoshow.com Map I15
Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps in the back of this issue. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
UNIQUE L.A. HOLIDAY MARKET Dec. 2-3 Shop the wares of more than 400 independent designers and makers, who’ll be selling home goods, clothing, leather goods, bath products, gourmet edibles and more. Free drinks and snacks, DIY projects, photo-booth portraits and gift wrapping. 11 am-6 pm. Daily admission $15, VIP $35 (21+). Parking $7. California Market Center, 110 E. 9th St., Suite A727, downtown, uniqueusa.com/ markets-la Map I16
Music + Dance.............. 78 Shopping Destinations... 84
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: LUZIA Opening Dec. 8 Billed as “A Waking Dream of Mexico,” this Cirque du Soleil show consists of visual surprises and acrobatic performances (e.g., hoop diving and surrealistic animals) bringing multiple places, faces and sounds of Mexico to the stage. Check website for schedule. Tickets start at $50, under 2 free. Dodger Stadium, 1000 Vin Scully Ave., L.A., cirquedusoleil.com Map G17 MARINA DEL REY HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE Dec. 9 55th annual parade of decorated boats in Marina del Rey preceded by fireworks show. This year’s theme is “Let’s Dance for the Holidays.” Fireworks, 5:55 pm; parade, 6-8 pm. Enjoy real snow, sledding, arts and crafts, face painting, a DJ and food trucks in the park from noon-6 pm. Free. Burton Chace Park, 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, 310.670.7130, mdrboatparade.org Map 09
ECHO PARK CRAFT FAIR Dec. 9-10 This popular homegrown arts and design event showcases the wares of over 120 talented local artisans. Shop for jewelry, clothes, ceramics, perfume and more. 10 am-6 pm. One day $10; weekend pass $16. Mack Sennett Studios, 1215 Bates Ave., L.A., echoparkcraftfair.com Map W23 RENEGADE CRAFT FAIR Dec. 9-10 Back in L.A. for the ninth year, this celebration of the DIY and maker spirit features over 250 artisans selling their wares, plus food and drink, DIY workshops, music and more. 10 am-5 pm. Free. Los Angeles State Historic Park, 1245 N. Spring St., L.A., renegadecraft.com Map G17 THE NUTCRACKER Dec. 9-10, 15-17, 23-24, 29-31 The Los Angeles Ballet performs the beloved holiday tale about Clara and her Nutcracker—set in 1912 Los Angeles—at the Alex Theatre, Royce Hall at UCLA, Dolby Theatre and Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. See website for schedule and ticket information. Alex Theatre, 216 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale, 818.243.2539; Royce Hall at UCLA, 10745 Dickson Court, L.A., 310.825.4401; Dolby Theatre, Hollywood & Highland, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.308.6300; Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach, 310.318.0610, losangelesballet.org/ the-nutcracker Map T23, H13, I10, L14
INDEX Special Events.............. 76 Studio Tapings.............. 80 Theater......................... 76 Museums...................... 80 Sports........................... 78 Spas.............................. 86 Attractions.................... 78 Nightlife........................ 88 Studio Tours................. 80 Tours + Transport........ 90
first-ever Ice Adventure Park and a tribute to cultural traditions from around the world, with a global sampling of food, music and live entertainment. The 38,000-squarefoot Ice Adventure Park offers ice skating, an ice track, ice bumper cars, ice tricycles, a zip line, ice shuffleboard, a two-story ice-tubing slide and more. Check website for hours. $19.99-$29.99. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 877.342.0752, queenmary.com/chill Map O16 DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS FOLLOW YOUR HEART Dec. 14-17 Bring the kids to see their favorite Disney movies come alive on ice. The show features characters from Frozen, Inside Out, Finding Dory and Toy Story. See website for showtimes. $25-$100, under 2 free. Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 888.929.7849, disneyonice.com Map I15 TOURNAMENT OF ROSES Dec. 28-Jan. 2 Float decorating, Bandfest, Equestfest, Rose Parade (Jan. 1, 8 am), Rose Bowl Game (Jan. 1, 1 pm). Free curbside viewing of parade on first-come, first-served basis; grandstand seats for $55-$100 on sharpseating.com. Rose Bowl tickets start at $185. Check website for detailed schedule, locations and fees for other events. 626.449.4100, tournamentofroses.com
HOLIDAY ICE RINK PERSHING SQUARE All month Skate among the skyscrapers at this ice-skating rink, presented by Bai, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary at Pershing Square. See website for hours and skate-session schedule. $13 per 1-hour skate session, including skate rental. 532 S. Olive St., downtown, holidayicerinkdowntownla.com Map I16 ICE AT SANTA MONICA All month This 8,000square-foot outdoor skating rink in downtown Santa Monica brings holiday spirit to the beach. M-Th 2-10 pm; F 2 pm-midnight; Sa 10 am-midnight; Su 10 am-10 pm. Admission, including skate rental, $15. Corner of 5th Street and Arizona Avenue, Santa Monica, 310.260.1199, iceatsantamonica.com Map L8
THEATER CHASING MEM’RIES: A DIFFERENT KIND OF MUSICAL Through Dec. 17 Tyne Daly and Robert Forster star in this touching play—having its world premiere here—with songs written by legendary lyricists Alan and Marilyn Bergman. Gil Cates Theater, Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., Westwood, 310.208.5454 Map J10
MANHATTAN BEACH HOLIDAY FIREWORKS Dec. 10 The picturesque beachside city’s annual holiday celebration features a Skechers-sponsored snow park, a Santa float and live music, capped off by a fireworks show over the pier. Snow park, float, 4 pm; fireworks, 7 pm. Free (new, unwrapped toy or cash donation to benefit the YMCA Adventure Guides Toy Drive requested for snow-park admission). 2 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, mbfireworks.com Map L13
HAMILTON Through Dec. 30 The national tour of the Broadway hit brings its brilliant raps about Founding Father Alexander Hamilton (played by Michael Luwoye) to the Pantages stage. Hollywood Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.468.1770 Map H13
CHILL AT THE QUEEN MARY Opens Dec. 13 The Queen Mary’s all-new Chill experience features the U.S.’
SOMETHING ROTTEN! Through Dec. 31 This funny, irreverent ode to musicals tells the story of two brothers
W The first Tournament of Roses football game, held on Jan. 1, 1902, in Pasadena’s Tournament Park, was America’s first postseason football game.
© 2017 KEN GONZALES-DAY
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in the 1590s who try to outshine the Bard by writing the very first musical. Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772 Map H16 SPAMILTON: AN AMERICAN PARODY Continuing Can’t score tickets to Hamilton? This play, touted by the New York Post as the “next best thing to seeing Hamilton,” is a hilarious parody of the musical from the comedic force behind the long-running hit Forbidden Broadway. Kirk Douglas Theatre, 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 213.628.2772 Map L11
MUSIC + DANCE CENTER FOR THE ART OF PERFORMANCE AT UCLA Dec. 2 Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA—That Bad Donato: The L.A. Brazil Connection. Dec. 3 ONIX Ensamble. Dec. 9 John McLaughlin & Jimmy Herring: The Meeting of the Spirits. Royce Hall at UCLA, 10745 Dickson Court, Westwood, 310.825.2101, cap.ucla. edu Map J10
DOLBY THEATRE Dec. 1-2 Chris Rock. Dec. 6 Super Sako. Dec. 7 Theresa Caputo Live! Dec. 8 Intocable. Dec. 15 Carol Burnett: An Evening of Laughter and Reflection. Dec. 16 The Brian Setzer Orchestra. Dec. 23-24 The Nutcracker. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.308.6300 Map H13 DOROTHY CHANDLER PAVILION Dec. 1 Sleepless: The Music Center After Hours. Dec. 2 Malpaso Dance Company. Dec. 7-10 George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, world premiere, Miami City Ballet. Dec. 24 L.A. County Holiday Celebration. 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.7211 Map H16 THE FORUM Dec. 1 KIIS FM’s Jingle Ball. Dec. 9-10 KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas. Dec. 16 Power 106 Cali Christmas. Dec. 18 Lady Gaga. Dec. 20 Barry Manilow: A Very Barry Christmas. Dec. 21 Jay Z. Dec. 30 The Original Misfits. Dec. 31 Dave Chappelle & John Mayer: Controlled Danger. 3900 W. Manchester Blvd., Inglewood, 310.330.7300 Map O12 REDCAT Through Dec. 3 Charles Atlas, Rashaun Mitchell, Silas Riener: Tesseract. Dec. 4 Moustapha Alassane: Pioneer of the Golden Age of Nigerien Cinema. Dec. 8 Bennie Maupin Plays The Jewel in the Lotus. Dec. 9 Lou Harrison: Music of the Pacific. Dec. 10-11 Studio: Fall 2017. Dec. 15-16 CalArts Winter Dance. 631 W. 2nd St., downtown, 213.237.2800 Map H16 STAPLES CENTER Dec. 10 Stevie Wonder’s House Full of Toys Benefit Concert. 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.742.7100 Map I15 THE THEATRE AT ACE HOTEL Dec. 1-3 Tori Amos. Dec. 5 Black Violin. Dec. 6 Gregory Porter. Dec. 9 A Holiday Evening With Us the Duo. Dec. 10 Pee Cast Blast ‘17, featuring comedy podcasts Comedy Bang! Bang!, How Did This Get Made? and more. Dec. 14 CAP
UCLA presents: Ryoji Ikeda—Program I. Dec. 15 CAP UCLA presents: Ryoji Ikeda—Program II. Dec. 16 KPCC In Person presents: FilmWeek Screenings Die Hard. Dec. 17 CAP UCLA presents: Blind Boys of Alabama. Dec. 22 Christmas Queens. Dec. 31 Dita Von Teese’s New Year’s Eve Gala Show. 929 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.623.3233 Map I16 WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL Dec. 1-3 Hilary Hahn Plays Bernstein, featuring Los Angeles Philharmonic, conductor Miguel Harth-Bedoya. Dec. 2, 9 Festival of Carols, featuring Los Angeles Master Chorale, Eric Whitacre; Toyota Symphonies for Youth, featuring L.A. Philharmonic. Dec. 3 Los Angeles Children’s Chorus, featuring conductor Anne Tomlinson. Dec. 5 Bach & Mendelssohn. Dec. 7 Colburn Celebrity Recitals, featuring Calder Quartet. Dec. 8 Leslie Odom Jr. Dec. 8-10 Tchaikovsky’s First Piano Concerto, featuring L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Xian Zhang, pianist Sergio Tiempo. Dec. 10 Bach: The Six Motets, featuring L.A. Master Chorale. Dec. 14-17 Mozart & Bruckner With Mehta, featuring L.A. Philharmonic, conductor Zubin Mehta, pianist Khatia Buniatishvili. Dec. 16 Holiday Sing-Along, featuring host Melissa Peterman, conductor John Sutton, Angeles Chorale. Dec. 17 Handel’s “Messiah,” featuring L.A. Master Chorale. Dec. 18 37th Annual “Messiah” Sing-Along, featuring L.A. Master Chorale. Dec. 19 A Chanticleer Christmas. Dec. 20 Dianne Reeves—Christmas Time Is Here. Dec. 22 Naturally 7. Dec. 23 White Christmas Sing-Along. Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve With Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox. 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 323.850.2000 Map H16
SPORTS LOS ANGELES MEMORIAL COLISEUM Dec. 10 Los Angeles Rams vs. Philadelphia Eagles. Dec. 31 Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers. 3911 S. Figueroa St., Exposition Park, L.A., 213.747.7111 Map K15 STAPLES CENTER Dec. 3 Los Angeles Lakers vs. Houston Rockets. Dec. 4 WWE RAW. Dec. 5 Los Angeles Kings vs. Minnesota Wild. Dec. 6 Los Angeles Clippers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves. Dec. 7 Kings vs. Ottawa Senators. Dec. 8 Basketball Hall of Fame Classic. Dec. 9 Clippers vs. Washington Wizards; Kings vs. Carolina Hurricanes. Dec. 11 Clippers vs. Toronto Raptors. Dec. 18 Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors. Dec. 20 Clippers vs. Phoenix Suns. Dec. 21 Kings vs. Colorado Avalanche. Dec. 23 Lakers vs. Portland Trail Blazers. Dec. 25 Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves. Dec. 26 Clippers vs. Sacramento Kings. Dec. 27 Lakers vs. Memphis Grizzlies. Dec. 28 Kings vs. Las Vegas Golden Knights. Dec. 29 Lakers vs. Clippers. Dec. 31 Clippers vs. Charlotte Hornets. 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.742.7100 Map I15 STUBHUB CENTER Dec. 3 Los Angeles Chargers vs. Cleveland Browns. Dec. 10 Chargers vs. Washington Redskins. Dec. 31 Chargers vs. Oakland Raiders. 18400 Avalon Blvd., Carson, 310.630.2000 Map M15
ATTRACTIONS AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC Focus is on Pacific Ocean sea life. Touch the ocean’s predators in Shark Lagoon and the jellies in the Wonders of the Deep gallery, and meet penguins, sea otters, sea lions and 11,000 other animals. Daily 9 am-6 pm. $17.95-$29.95, under 3 free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, 562.590.3100 Map O16 BATTLESHIP USS IOWA Former battleship is permanently docked as a floating museum. Ongoing exhibit follows the ship’s history through World War II, Korean War and Cold War. Explore the missile decks, bridge, mess areas and captain’s cabin. Daily 10 am-5 pm; last ticket sold at 4 pm. $11.95-$19.95, under 5 free. Pacific Battleship Center, USS Iowa BB-61, 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro, 877.446.9261 Map O15 CATHEDRAL OF OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS Stunning contemporary cathedral opposite Music Center. M-F 6:30 am-6 pm; Sa 9 am-6 pm; Su 7 am-6 pm. 555 W. Temple St., downtown, 213.680.5200 Map H17
CENTRAL LIBRARY Downtown beaux arts-style landmark is the nation’s third-largest public library in terms of book and periodical holdings. It also holds many archival collections. M-Th 10 am-8 pm; F-Sa 9:30 am-5:30 pm; Su 1-5 pm. Free. 630 W. 5th St., downtown, 213.228.7000 Map I16 CHINATOWN Ornate architecture, dim sum, trendy eateries (Howlin’ Ray’s, Baohaus) and shops with Eastern wares surrounding a central plaza. Art and antiques on Chung King Road. Between Cesar E. Chavez Avenue and Bernard Street, Yale and Spring streets, downtown Map G17 DESCANSO GARDENS Collections include coast live oaks, roses, the Oak Woodland, the Ancient Forest, the Japanese Garden and an award-winning camellia garden. Enjoy family-friendly festivals, performances, classes and activities for children. Visit descansogardens.org for information about Enchanted: Forest of Light and Maple Restaurant. M, F-Su 9 am-5 pm; Tu-Th 9 am-8 pm. $4-$9, under 5 free. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, 818.949.4200 Map Q19 DISNEYLAND Mickey Mouse’s theme park. Attractions include Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion and updated Star Tours. Disney California Adventure is adjacent. Call for hours. $97$124, under 3 free. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, 714.781.4565 Map D6 EL CAPITAN THEATRE 1926 Spanish-style movie palace screens Disney films new and old. Musical preludes on Wurlitzer pipe organ before shows. Tours available. Call for schedule and pricing. 6838 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.7674 Map H13 EL PUEBLO DE LOS ANGELES Birthplace of Los Angeles; the site of this historical monument dates to 1781. Historic buildings, 11 of which are open to the public, include 1818 Avila Adobe, L.A.’s oldest. 125 Paseo de la Plaza, downtown, 213.628.1274 Map H17 GAMBLE HOUSE Landmark Arts and Crafts-style home. Advance tickets recommended for guided tours. See website for details. Th-Su noon-3 pm. $12.50-$15, under 12 free. 4 Westmoreland Place, Pasadena, 626.793.3334, gamblehouse.org Map Q19 GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY Iconic attraction with spectacular views of L.A. and the Hollywood sign. Hourly shows at planetarium. Tu-F noon-10 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-10 pm. Admission free; planetarium shows $3-$7, under 5 free. 2800 E. Observatory Road, Griffith Park, L.A., 213.473.0800 Map U23 IFLY HOLLYWOOD “Indoor skydiving” via a vertical wind tunnel. Check iflyworld.com/hollywood for hours. $59.95-$99.95. Universal CityWalk, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.985.4359 Map G13 L.A. LIVE Bustling entertainment center is home to the Grammy Museum, Microsoft Theater and the Novo by Microsoft (formerly Club Nokia), restaurants including new Cleo and Ford’s Filling Station, high-tech bowling lanes and nightspots such as the Conga Room. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.763.5483 Map I15 L.A. ZOO AND BOTANICAL GARDENS Home to more than 250 animal species, many of them endangered, living among immersive habitats and lush gardens. Highlights include the Rainforest of the Americas exhibit. Daily 10 am-5 pm. Ticket sales cease one hour before closing. $15-$20, under 2 free. 5333 Zoo Drive, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.644.4200 Map T23 LEGOLAND Resort features more than 60 rides, shows and attractions, Sea Life Aquarium, Legoland Water Park and Legoland Hotel. New Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens Miniland model display. See legoland.com for hours, ticket packages, hotel accommodations and discounts. Parking $17-$25. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.5346
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MADAME TUSSAUDS HOLLYWOOD World-famous museum of wax figures. Hours vary. $23.95-$30.95, under 3 free. 6933 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.798.1670 Map H13 ORIGINAL FARMERS MARKET Local landmark with 120 produce stalls, restaurants and gift shops in open-air setting. Adjacent to the Grove shopping center. 6333 W. 3rd St., L.A., 323.933.9211 Map I13 OUE SKYSPACE L.A. California’s tallest open-air observation deck, at nearly 1,000 feet above the city, boasts 360-degree views and a 45-foot-long glass “Skyslide” from the 70th to the 69th floor. 633 W. 5th St., downtown, 213.894.9000 Map I16 POINT VICENTE INTERPRETIVE CENTER Small park adjacent to the Point Vicente Lighthouse offers a whalewatching deck and an interpretive center featuring exhibits about local history and ecology. 31501 Palos Verdes Drive, Rancho Palos Verdes, 310.377.5370 Map O13 RONALD REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM Visit the Air Force One Pavilion and see a full-size replica of the White House Oval Office. Ticket prices include admission to Titanic at the Reagan Library (through Jan. 7, 2018). Daily 10 am-5 pm. $16$29, under 2 free. 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, 800.410.8354 Map northwest of A1 RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT! ODDITORIUM Three hundred displays feature curiosities gathered by traveler Robert Ripley in the 1930s. Daily 10 ammidnight. $10-$20. 6780 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.466.6335 Map H13 QUEEN MARY Historic ocean liner permanently berthed in Long Beach Harbor. Tours, shops, hotel, art deco lounge, a 4-D theater and restaurants. Check queenmary.com for hours and prices. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 877.342.0738 Map O16 SAN FERNANDO MISSION 1797 mission with museum, archives and gardens. Daily 9 am-4:30 pm. $3-$5, under 7 free. 15151 San Fernando Mission Blvd., Mission Hills, 818.361.0186 Map north of A1 SAN GABRIEL MISSION Mission includes the oldest building (1771) in Southern California. M-Sa 9 am-4:30 pm; Su 10 am-4 pm. $3-$5, under 6 free. 427 S. Junipero Serra Drive, San Gabriel, 626.457.3035 Map B4 SEAWORLD The 189-acre adventure park features thousands of marine animals including fish, reptiles and birds. New Orca Encounter show. Open daily; call for hours, ticket packages and discounts. $88.99-$94.99, under 3 free. Parking $17-$30. 500 SeaWorld Drive, San Diego, 619.222.4732 TCL CHINESE THEATRE Historic, meticulously restored Hollywood movie palace (formerly Grauman’s
Chinese Theatre) with Imax screen and walkway of stars’ handprints and footprints in the forecourt. Visit tclchinesetheatres.com or call for movie schedule. 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.461.3331 Map H13
by a parent. Day-of tickets, call before noon; advance tickets, go to ellen.warnerbros.com/tickets. Warner Bros. Studios, 3400 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank, 818.954.5929 Map U20
UNIVERSAL CITYWALK Dining, shopping and entertainment promenade includes new dining options such as Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Dongpo Kitchen, LudoBird and Voodoo Doughnut; clothing boutiques and novelty stores; a state-of-the-art Universal Cinema and Imax theater; and simulated skydiving wind tunnel iFly Hollywood. Call for hours. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.4455 Map U20
ON-CAMERA AUDIENCES Free tickets to live tapings of TV shows including America’s Got Talent, Dancing With the Stars and The Price Is Right. Minimum age 12-18, varies by show. 818.295.2700, mytvtickets.com
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD Movie-based theme park. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and The Walking Dead Attraction are popular recent additions. Other attractions include Transformers: The Ride 3-D; Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem and adjacent Super Silly Fun Land; and the Simpsons Ride and its immersive environment, Springfield. Studio Tour includes Peter Jackson’s King Kong 360 3-D, film and TV sets and the Fast & Furious—Supercharged hydraulic motion-based thrill ride. Call or check universalstudioshollywood.com for hours and prices. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 800.864.8377 Map U20
STUDIO TOURS PARAMOUNT PICTURES STUDIO TOUR Two-hour group tour of Hollywood’s longest-operating and only remaining major studio. Reservations recommended. Tours daily (except some holidays) every half-hour 9:30 am-3 pm. $58; VIP tour $178, under 10 not admitted. 2.5-hour After Dark Tour every 15 minutes F-Sa 7:30-8 pm. $78, under 12 not admitted. 5515 Melrose Ave., Hollywood, 323.956.1777 Map I14 SONY PICTURES STUDIO TOUR Two-hour walking tour of working motion-picture studio includes stages where television shows and movies including The Wizard of Oz and Spider-Man were filmed. Reservations, photo ID required. M-W, F 9:30 am-2:30 pm; Th 9:30 am-6 pm. $45, under 12 not admitted. Parking free. 10202 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.244.8687 Map L11 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD Legendary studio tour (also see listing under “Attractions”). VIP Experience includes front-of-line privileges, gourmet lunch, visits to the new Will & Grace set and other perks. For hours and prices, call or check universalstudioshollywood.com. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 818.622.3801 Map U20 WARNER BROS. STUDIO TOUR HOLLYWOOD Three-hour tour of working TV and film studio includes backlots, prop warehouse, Stage 48: Script to Screen interactive soundstage, the real Central Perk set, original Batmobiles and observation of filming (when possible). The Harry Potter & Fantastic Beasts exhibit is new. Deluxe tour available. Reservations recommended; photo ID required. Daily 8:30 am-4 pm. $55-$68, under 8 not admitted. Parking $12. 3400 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank, 877.492.8687 Map U20
STUDIO TAPINGS 1IOTA Free tickets to live tapings of TV shows including Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Late Late Show With James Corden, The Voice and The Talk, as well as special events. Minimum age 16-18, varies by show. 323.417.6550, 1iota.com AUDIENCES UNLIMITED Free tickets to live tapings of TV shows on CBS, Fox, NBC, Netflix and the CW that are produced in the L.A. area, such as The Big Bang Theory and Fuller House. Minimum age 10-18, varies by show. 818.260.0041, ext. 1, tvtickets.com THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW Free tickets to taping of comedian’s daytime talk show. Minimum age 14; minors must show photo ID and be accompanied
MUSEUMS THE ANNENBERG SPACE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY Cultural venue dedicated to digital and print photography. W-Su 11 am-6 pm. Free. Parking $3.50, $1 after 4:30 pm and all day Sa-Su. 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Century City, 213.403.3000 Map J11 AUTRY MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN WEST Museum explores the art, history and cultures of the American West. Houses one of the top U.S. collections of Native American materials. Tu-F 10 am-4 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-5 pm. $6-$14, under 3 free. 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A., 323.667.2000 Map H14 THE BROAD Museum built by philanthropists and art collectors Eli and Edythe Broad contains more than 2,000 works of contemporary art. Tu-W 11 am-5 pm; Th-F 11 am-8 pm; Sa 10 am-8 pm; Su 10 am-6 pm. See thebroad. org for special-exhibition ticket prices and extended hours. Free. Online reservations encouraged. 221 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.232.6200 Map H16 CALIFORNIA AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM Exhibits showcasing the history, culture and art of African-Americans, with an emphasis on California and the western United States. Tu-Sa 10 am-5 pm; Su 11 am-5 pm. Free. Parking $12, $15 after 5 pm. 600 State Drive, Exposition Park, L.A., 213.744.7432 Map M8 CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER Interactive exhibits for budding scientists; Imax theater. Daily 10 am-5 pm. Permanent gallery, free; admission for other exhibits and Imax varies. Parking $12. 700 Exposition Park Drive, Exposition Park, L.A., 323.724.3623 Map K15 CRAFT & FOLK ART MUSEUM International folk and contemporary craft art. Tu-F 11 am-5 pm; Sa-Su 11 am-6 pm. $5-$7; pay what you can Su, under 10 free. 5814 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.937.4230 Map J13 DISCOVERY CUBE L.A. 71,000-square-foot children’s science center offers traveling and permanent high-tech exhibits aimed at teaching science, technology, engineering, math, healthy living and environmental stewardship through hands-on activities. Daily 10 am-5 pm. $12.95-$17.95, under 3 free. 11800 Foothill Blvd., L.A., 818.686.2823, discoverycube.org/la Map north of A2 GETTY CENTER Travertine-clad hilltop facility houses collections of paintings, drawings, antiquities, photographs and decorative arts. Fabulous Central Garden and city views. Tu-F, Su 10 am-5:30 pm; Sa 10 am-9 pm. Free. Parking $15, $10 after 3 pm. 1200 Getty Center Drive, L.A., 310.440.7300 Map H9 GETTY VILLA Getty Center’s exquisite coastal counterpart features Etruscan, Roman and Greek antiquities. W-M 10 am-5 pm. Free. Parking $15, $10 after 3 pm. Advance timed tickets required for entry. 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades, 310.440.7300 Map K7 GRAMMY MUSEUM Museum on L.A. Live campus explores music, the creative and recording processes and Grammy Awards history. M-F 10:30 am-6:30 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-6:30 pm. $10.95-$12.95, under 6 free. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.765.6800 Map I15 HAMMER MUSEUM UCLA-affiliated museum presents influential traveling shows and installations alongside its permanent collection. Tu-F 11 am-8 pm; Sa-Su 11 am-5 pm. Free. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Westwood, 310.443.7000 Map J10
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‘Tis the season to celebrate at SeaWorld. Immerse yourself in more than a million lights and catch the all-new live nativity musical O Wondrous Night®. Meet Santa and his friendly elves, along with Rudolph™ and friends. Celebrate all your family holiday traditions and start new ones at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration™.
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ATTRACTIONS HOLLYWOOD MUSEUM In the historic Max Factor Building, steps from the Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Museum houses 10,000 authentic showbiz treasures that showcase 100 years of Hollywood’s entertainment industry. W-Su 10 am-5 pm. $5-$15. 1660 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.464.7776 Map H13 HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART COLLECTIONS, AND BOTANICAL GARDENS Art, buildings and grounds, with a dozen themed gardens; new dining concepts; a beautiful gallery and an education and visitor center. W-M 10 am-5 pm. $13-$25, under 4 free. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, 626.405.2141 Map R21
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JAPANESE AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM Promotes understanding of ethnic diversity with a focus on the Japanese-American experience. Tu-W, F-Su 11 am-5 pm; Th noon-8 pm. $6-$10, under 5 free, Th 5-8 pm and third Thursday of the month free. 100 N. Central Ave., downtown, 213.625.0414 Map H17 LA BREA TAR PITS AND MUSEUM Watch paleontologists at work uncovering ice age L.A. Among the main attractions are the ever-bubbling tar pits, which make up the world’s most famous fossil-excavation site. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. $5-$12, under 3 free. 5801 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.934.7243 Map J13 LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART The largest art museum in the western U.S., with diverse, superb collections housed on a 20-acre campus. M-Tu, Th 11 am-5 pm; F 11 am-8 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-7 pm. $10-$15, under 18 free. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6000 Map J13 LOS ANGELES MUSEUM OF THE HOLOCAUST The West Coast’s largest archive of Holocaust-era documents, relics and other primary-source materials. Interactive and audiovisual exhibits include “The World That Was” touch-screen table. Sa-Th 10 am-5 pm; F 10 am-2 pm. Free. Pan Pacific Park, 100 S. The Grove Drive, L.A., 323.651.3704 Map I12 MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART Premier contemporary-art museum housed in three facilities. GC and GA: M, W, F 11 am-6 pm; Th 11 am-8 pm; Sa-Su 11 am-5 pm. PDC: Tu-F 11 am-5 pm; Sa-Su 11 am-6 pm. GA and GC: $8-$15, under 12 free; free at PDC. MOCA Grand Avenue (GA), 250 S. Grand Ave., downtown; The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA (GC), 152 N. Central Ave., downtown; MOCA Pacific Design Center (PDC), 8687 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 213.626.6222 Map H16, H17, I12
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MUSEUM OF LATIN AMERICAN ART Leading museum of modern and contemporary Latin American art; Robert Gumbiner Sculpture Garden. W-Th, Sa-Su 11 am-5 pm; F 11 am-9 pm. $7-$10, under 12 free. 628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach, 562.437.1689 Map O6 MUSEUM OF TOLERANCE Exhibits on prejudice and discrimination, legacy of the Holocaust, humanrights issues and Anne Frank’s life and legacy. Su-F 10 am-5 pm. $11.50-$15.50, under 5 free. 9786 W. Pico Blvd., L.A., 310.553.8403 Map J11 NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY Thirty-three million objects, from dinosaur fossils to fish. The 3.5-acre Nature Gardens, interactive Nature Lab and Tyrannosaurus rex growth series exhibit are highlights. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. $5-$12, under 3 free. 900 Exposition Blvd., Exposition Park, L.A., 213.763.3466 Map K15 NORTON SIMON MUSEUM Stellar collection of Renaissance to 20th-century masterworks and sculpture garden. M, W-Th noon-5 pm; F-Sa 11 am-8 pm; Su 11 am-5 pm. $9-$12; students with photo ID, under 19 free. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626.449.6840 Map Q19 PETERSEN AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM Recently renovated museum displays about 135 vintage cars, trucks
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LIMITED TIME FOR T HE HOLIDAYS! STARTING DECEMBER 1ST
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Mention this ad at Madame Tussauds Hollywood and receive $10 off up to six (6) regular same day Adult/Child admissions. Not valid on advance and combo ticket purchase or with any other discounts. Restrictions may apply. The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds. Promo Code: WHEREMTH
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SHOPPING
D
and motorcycles in permanent and rotating exhibits. Daily 10 am-6 pm. $7-$15, under 3 free. Vault tours $20, under 10 not admitted. 6060 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.930.2277 Map J13 SKIRBALL CULTURAL CENTER Cultural venue highlights the American Jewish experience through engaging exhibitions and programs. The awardwinning Noah’s Ark attraction is great for tots. Tu-F noon-5 pm; Sa-Su 10 am-5 pm. $7-$12, under 2 free, free Thursdays. 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A., 310.440.4500 Map G9
SHOPPING DESTINATIONS THE AMERICANA AT BRAND Downtown Glendale hot spot from the creators of the Grove with a Main Street, U.S.A., atmosphere and trolley. Kate Spade and Toms are among the 90 or so stores. Dining options include Din Tai Fung and Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina. 889 Americana Way, Glendale, 818.637.8900 Map U23 BEVERLY CENTER Trendsetting mall near West Hollywood is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation. It has more than 100 boutiques (Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, True Religion concept store, Uniqlo, Cos) and is anchored by Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s. 8500 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.854.0070 Map I12 CITADEL OUTLETS Assyrian architecture south of downtown stands out along the Golden State (5) Freeway; the center offers discounted clothes from Coach, Guess, H&M, Banana Republic, Levi’s and Converse, to name just a few. 100 Citadel Drive, L.A., 323.888.1724 Map B4 THE GROVE Popular outdoor center is home to 40 shops including Apple, Brandy Melville, Nordstrom and Elizabeth and James and nine restaurants including Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill, 189 by Dominique Ansel (creator of the Cronut) and Ladurée, all in a setting that suggests a grand old downtown. Movie theater, trolley and dancing fountain are draws. Adjacent to Original Farmers Market. 189 The Grove Drive, L.A., 888.315.8883 Map I13 MALIBU COUNTRY MART Outdoor center with upscale boutiques including new Paige and Victoire including Bed/Stu, Letarte, Planet Blue and Curve, plus Cie Sparks salon and restaurants such as Taverna Tony and Mr Chow. Malibu Lumber Yard and Malibu Village are adjacent. 3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.7300 Map northwest of K7
LA ZOO LA ZOO LIGHTS N I 17 G –HJAN T L 7Y NIGHTLY NOV LIGHTS NOV 27–JAN 3
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Get your tickets today at LAZooLights.org
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Discount on online purchase only. Not valid for daytime admission. *Closed November 23, December 24, and December 25.
for WHERE Magazine readers!
10/3/2017 Los Angeles Zoo File prep: Miss Cecilia
323-336-2596
Pub: Where Magazine Color: CMYK
PMS: None
Bleed: non
Trim:
Live: W 4.625"x H 4.875"
PLATFORM Collection of cult-favorite retailers (Magasin, The Edit by Freda Salvador + Janessa Leoné, Velvet, Aesop, Tenoverten, Bird) curated by Runyon Group in Culver City’s up-and-coming Hayden Tract neighborhood. Dining and snack options include Hayden, the Cannibal, Loqui Taco and Blue Bottle Coffee; fitness destination SoulCycle is also on-site. Next to the Metro Expo Line’s Culver City station. 8850 Washington Blvd., Culver City, platformla.com Map M11 SANTA MONICA PLACE Sleek outdoor mall at south end of Third Street Promenade anchored by Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. More than 80 boutiques, including Chan Luu and Barneys New York, plus a rooftop Dining Deck and ArcLight Cinemas. 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, 310.394.1049 Map L8 SOUTH COAST PLAZA High-end center in Orange County boasts nearly 300 boutiques (Bottega Veneta, Céline, Chanel, Chloé, Gucci)) and 40 restaurants, including new Water Grill. Concierge at four locations. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 800.782.8888 Map E6 THIRD STREET PROMENADE Pedestrian-only shopping zone includes shops (Anthropologie, Converse, Cotton On, Zara), kiosks and an array of entertaining street performers. 1351 Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica, 310.393.8355 Map L8
MUSEUM OF TOLERANCE www.museumoftolerance.com
9786 west pico boulevard los angeles, ca 90035 t: 310.772.2506
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D O D G ER STADI UM TO U RS
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SPAS TWO RODEO Center with cobblestones in the heart of Beverly Hills features luxury boutiques including Jimmy Choo and Tiffany & Co., plus fine-art gallery Galerie Michael and restaurant 208 Rodeo. 9478 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.247.7040 Map J11
THE VILLAGE AT WESTFIELD TOPANGA Newer lifestyle destination across the street from Westfield Topanga shopping center (with trolley service connecting the two) offers trendy retailers (Jonathan Adler, Splendid, True Religion), restaurants, with alfresco dining, Burke Williams a spa, a yoga studio, a children’s play area and much more. 6250 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills, 818.594.8732 Map west of A1
10
TONY AWARD
®
NOMINATIONS INCLUDING
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WESTFIELD AT LAX Travelers flying out of LAX can enjoy some of L.A.’s top retail and dining options curated by Westfield (Fred Segal, MAC Cosmetics, Petrossian, Porsche Design, SeaLegs Wine Bar, Spanx) in LAX’s Tom Bradley International Terminal, as well as terminals 1, 2, 3 and 6. 380 World Way, L.A., 310.646.1770, westfieldatlax.com Map O10 WESTFIELD CENTURY CITY Open-air shopping center fresh from a $1 billion revitalization has more than 175 stores, including new Compartés Chocolatier and Equipment; a Luxe AMC multiplex with Imax screen; a food-court atrium and terrace; and the West Coast’s first Eataly. 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Century City, 310.277.3898 Map J11
SPAS BLISS SPA Hotel spa goes hip. Full-service spa also includes nail stations, expansive boutique with Bliss products. Sauna, steam showers. W Los Angeles— West Beverly Hills, 930 Hilgard Ave., Westwood, 310.443.8228; W Hollywood, 6250 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.798.1386 Map J10, H14
CIEL SPA Recently relaunched modern retreat by Pearl Wellness at the SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills offers luxurious services and product lines such as Biologique Recherche, plus full-service IGK Salon. Access to fitness center and Altitude pool deck. Herbal steam room, showers. 465 S. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.246.5560 Map I12
KATE SOMERVILLE SKIN HEALTH EXPERTS Hollywood’s favorite facials (try the DermalQuench Oxygen Treatment) are offered in a feminine salon on superexclusive Melrose Place. 8428 Melrose Place, West Hollywood, 323.655.7546 Map I12
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IN AT LEAST 400 YEARS!” –TIME OUT New York
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HOTEL BEL-AIR SPA Valmont’s signature high performance anti-aging products are spotlighted at the Hotel Bel-Air—the only California spa that offers the Swiss line. Nestled in the hotel’s tropical gardens, the spa features a couples enclave, steam rooms, marble showers, relaxation room. 701 Stone Canyon Road, L.A., 310.909.1681 Map I10
MUSICAL COMEDY NO OC VT
FACE PLACE A facial featuring an anti-aging formulation that’s aided by galvanic current is a signature of this celeb-beloved specialty studio. 8701 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.855.1150 Map H12
“BROADWAY’S FUNNIEST
OCT
DERMALOGICA The SoCal-based skin care company’s flagship store/skin center is not a full-service spa but does offers a menu of “touch therapies,” targeted mini-treatments and customized facials, all of which feature the brand’s active-ingredient-packed products s. 1022 Montana Ave., Santa Monica, 310.260.8682 Map L8
Cast of the Something Rotten! national tour. ©Jeremy Daniel.
CAUDALIE BOUTIQUE SPA In hip Venice and the new Westfield Century City shopping center, the Bordeaux, France-based skin care company’s boutique spas feature treatment rooms where trained “vinotherapists” perform divine facial and body treatments. 1416 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.3560; Westfield Century City, 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 1905, L.A., 424.313.8629 Map N9, J11
I 213.972.4400 I
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NIGHTLIFE LA PRAIRIE SPA The new Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills’ opulent, 5,000-square-foot spa offers luxurious facial, nail and body treatments using products from the renowned La Prairie skin care line. 9850 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.860.6740 Map J11 OLE HENRIKSEN FACE/BODY SPA Full-service spa to the stars specializes in face and body care and also offers nail services. Coed steam room. Sunset Plaza, 8622 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 310.854.7700 Map H12
Shop our Bachelorette Collection!
THE PENINSULA SPA Petite but lavish rooftop spa with a variety of advanced body, nail and facial treatments, including personalized facial treatments using products by French luxury skin care line Biologique Recherche. 9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 310.975.2854 Map H12 SPA AT BEVERLY WILSHIRE The spa features a delightful an aromatherapy crystal steam room; Natura Bissé, Évolué and Elemis products and services. The Nail Bar offers shellac manicures and pedicures while Pretty Woman plays on a loop. 9500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.385.7023 Map J11 THE SPA AT FOUR SEASONS HOTEL LOS ANGELES AT BEVERLY HILLS Luxury spa with Eastern- and Western-style body treatments, an adjacent Nail Suite and facials such as the DNA Facial and the custom Organic Facial by Tata Harper. 300 S. Doheny Drive, L.A., 310.273.4444 Map J11 SPA DEL REY The spa at the waterfront Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey has an extensive menu of luxurious, targeted treatments a selection of which you can enjoy in a private pool-side cabana. Spa guests enjoy access to the pool, whirlpool and eucalyptus steam room with a 60-minute service. 4375 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, 310.574.4356 Map O9
310 734 7613 9607 S. Santa Monica Blvd. between Camden & Bedford Drives 10am - 8pm daily
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SPA MONTAGE The last word in luxury spas, with OiBH_Jul17 CS6.indd 1 deluxe services including L.Raphael facials and facilities including dry redwood saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools, showers and a coed mineral pool. Also on-site are Kim Vo Salon, Gornik & Drucker barbershop and fitness facilities. 225 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.860.7840 Map J11
6/7/17 1:36 PM
THIBIANT BEVERLY HILLS Skin care doyenne Aida Thibiant founded this spa that has whipped famous faces into shape with European-style facials for nearly four decades. Steam room, steam showers. 449 N. Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.278.7565 Map I11
8315 WEST 3RD STREET LOS ANGELES 90048
TIKKUN HOLISTIC SPA Tucked underground in Santa Monica is this traditional Korean spa with contemporary style. Clay room, salt room, ice room, plus sauna, whirlpool, showers. 1460 4th St., Santa Monica, 310.319.1111 Map L8
323.424.4807 WWW.PYRRHA.COM
NIGHTLIFE 1 OAK Strikingly seductive, art-filled club from New York. 9039 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.274.2326 Map H12 THE ABBEY David Cooley’s world-famous gay bar and nightclub. Newer concept the Chapel at the Abbey is adjacent. 692 N. Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.289.8410 Map H12 ARTS DISTRICT BREWING CO. 213 Hospitality’s Arts District brewery and tasting room with classic bar games and food from Neal Fraser’s Fritzi available via a takeout window. 828 Traction Ave., downtown, 213.519.5887 Map I17 AVALON HOLLYWOOD Dance club and concert venue with a storied past: It hosted the Beatles’ first West Coast performance. More intimate club Bardot is upstairs. 1735 Vine St., Hollywood, 323.462.8900 Map H14
NATALE E T H A I
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NIGHTLIFE BASEMENT TAVERN Underground speakeasy in a Victorian abode; live music. The Victorian, 2640 Main St., Santa Monica, 310.396.2469 Map M8 BEER BELLY Tiny craft-beer bar focusing on Southern California-brewed beers. 532 S. Western Ave., Koreatown, 213.387.2337 Map B2 BIGFOOT LODGE Kitschy log-cabin-themed watering hole. 3172 Los Feliz Blvd., L.A., 323.662.9227; Bigfoot West, 10939 Venice Blvd., Culver City, 310.287.2200 Map northeast of V23, M11 BLIND BARBER Craft-cocktail-driven speakeasy hidden in the rear of a barbershop. 10797 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.841.6679 Map L11 BOOTSY BELLOWS H.Wood Group’s Nightclub with burlesque shows and other live entertainment. 9229 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.274.7500 Map H12 BREAK ROOM 86 1980s-style bar inside the Line Hotel with karaoke suites and live entertainment (Break-dancing? Moonwalking? Check and check). 630 S. Ardmore Ave., L.A., 213.368.3056 Map west of H15 THE BUNGALOW Seaside cottage-style nightspot with gourmet bites by Fig Restaurant. The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, 101 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.899.8530 Map L8 COVELL Intimate Los Feliz neighborhood wine bar. 4628 Hollywood Blvd., L.A., 323.660.4400 Map W23
WORLD PREMIERE - NOW OPEN
DOHENY ROOM Stylish art deco-style bar and lounge from the SBE Group offers a diverse menu by Cleo chef Danny Elmaleh. 9077 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.777.0266 Map H12 HARLOWE Spacious, vintage-glam restaurant and bar from the 1933 Group. 721 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.876.5839 Map H13 LA DESCARGA Cuban-inspired rum bar. Live band and dance performances. Reservations recommended. Upscale dress code. 1159 N. Western Ave., L.A., 323.466.1324 Map east of H14 LAUGH FACTORY Famed comedy nightclub. 8001 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.656.1336; 151 S. Pine Ave., Long Beach, 562.495.2844 Map H12, N16
REAL STORIES. REAL ARTIFACTS. REAL PEOPLE.
MELROSE UMBRELLA CO. Rustic-chic space with creative cocktails and inventive fare. 7465 Melrose Ave., L.A., 323.951.0709 Map I12 THE NICE GUY H.Wood Group’s reservations-only, Italian-inspired restaurant and mixology lounge. 401 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.360.9500 Map I12 NO VACANCY Gin cocktails and live entertainment in a Victorian boutique hotel. 1727 N. Hudson Ave., Hollywood, 323.465.1902 Map H14 PERCH Open-air roost in a historic building; indoor cabaret lounge Bar Thirteen is underneath. 448 S. Hill St., downtown, 213.802.1770 Map I16
First-of-its-kind exhibition not seen anywhere else before! Experience real artifacts from the Titanic and items used in the discovery of the famed ship alongside props, sets and costumes from the blockbuster movie about the RMS Titanic! Photo Courtesy of Jonas Sejr Thomsen
R E A G A N L I B R A RY. C O M / T I TA N I C 40 Presidential Dr., Simi Valley, CA 93065 • 800.410.8354
POUR VOUS Parisian-inspired Champagne and cocktail salon. Upscale dress code. 5574 Melrose Ave., Hollywood, 323.871.8699 Map I14 SEVEN GRAND Whiskey bar with tongue-in-cheek hunt-club decor. Intimate Bar Jackalope hidden in the back features more than 120 premium whiskeys. 515 W. 7th St., downtown, 213.614.0737 Map I16 THE SPARE ROOM Gaming parlor and cocktail lounge with bowling lanes and fancy drinks. Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, 7000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.769.7296 Map H13
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TOURS + TRANSPORT
Nature, Art, Culture
“The Official Museum of Hollywood”
UPSTAIRS Sip drinks and enjoy stunning city views atop Ace Hotel, in the historic United Artists Building. 929 S. Broadway, downtown, 213.623.3233 Map I16
-Hollywood’s Honorary Mayor, Johnny Grant
WHISKY A GO GO Legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Famer still rocks. 8901 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.652.4202 Map H12 IN THE HISTORIC MAX FACTOR BUILDING
TOURS + TRANSPORT AMTRAK Train and bus service within the county, along the coast and to major California locations, with nationwide connections. 800.872.7245, amtrak.com BEVERLY HILLS RENT-A-CAR Luxury and exotic rentals. 9732 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.274.6969; 6085 Venice Blvd., Hollywood, 310.659.5555; LAX, 9220 S. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A., 310.670.2020, bhrentacar.com Map K12, J11, O10 CATALINA EXPRESS Year-round boat service to Catalina Island. Up to 30 daily departures from Long Beach, Dana Point, San Pedro. Reservations recommended. Ride Free on Your Birthday program. Call or check website for hours and prices. 800.481.3470, catalinaexpress.com DODGER STADIUM TOUR Behind-the-scenes tour of the legendary stadium allows guests to visit the field and the dugout, walk through the Vin Scully Press Box and more. $15-$20, under 4 free. 1000 Vin Scully Ave., L.A., 866.363.4377 Map G17
The Huntington
Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens
HORNBLOWER CRUISES & EVENTS Dine, dance and take in beautiful harbor views aboard one of Hornblower’s cruises. Choose from dinner and Champagne brunch options. Fisherman’s Village, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, 888.467.6256, hornblower.com Map O9 METRO City bus, light rail and subway. Rail lines connect downtown, Hollywood, Pasadena, Long Beach; underground Red Line from Union Station through Hollywood to San Fernando Valley; Gold Line from Union Station to East L.A. and through Pasadena to Azusa; Blue Line from downtown to Long Beach; Green Line from Norwalk to Redondo Beach; Expo Line from Santa Monica to downtown. 323.466.3876, metro.net METROLINK Regional train system connects Los Angeles County with Ventura, Orange and San Diego counties. Six of seven Metrolink rail lines (including the Orange County lines, San Bernardino lines and Ventura County lines) begin at Union Station in downtown Los Angeles. 800.371.5465, metrolinktrains.com STARLINE TOURS Celebrity-tour company offers Movie Stars’ Homes tours throughout the day. Its large repertoire also includes tours to beaches, theme parks, San Diego and more. The CitySightseeing double-decker hop-on, hop-off tour makes more than 70 stops around L.A. Prices vary. Tours begin at TCL Chinese Theatre, 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 800.959.3131, starlinetours.com Map H13 TMZ CELEBRITY TOUR, HOLLYWOOD Two-hour bus tour highlights celebrity hot spots in Hollywood, Beverly Hills and on the Sunset Strip, brought to life with videos from TMZ’s on-air stories and the occasional star sighting. See website for pickup locations, hours and prices. 844.TMZ.TOUR (869.8687), tmztour.com
where? LOG ON ANYWHERE. SOCALPULSE.COM
626-405-2240 Pasadena-adjacent Tours@huntington.org Milton Greene Photograph, 1953 © 2013 The Hollywood Museum
SEE 10,000 AUTHENTIC SHOWBIZ TREASURES SHOWCASING 100 YEARS OF HOLLYWOOD!
The most extensive collection of costumes, props, posters, and photographs in the world!
SPECIAL EXHIBITS
Marilyn Monroe - The Exhibit 100 Years of Favorite - Films & TV Shows Real to Reel: Portrayals and Perceptions of LGBTQs in Hollywood Jean Harlow: The Original Hollywood Blonde Bombshell Celebrating the Emmys...Best of TV
Open: Wed. - Sun. 10am-5pm “#1 Hollywood Tourist Attraction” –LA Weekly “One of LA’s Top 10 Museums” –LA Tourism and Convention Board “Certificate of Excellence” –Trip Advisor 1660 North Highland Avenue at Hollywood Boulevard Hollywood, California 90028 323.464.7776 www.TheHollywoodMuseum.com
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Sightsee the City in Style! Book online and save at:
starlinetours.com 323-463-3333 @starlinetours
800-959-3131
STARLINE TOURS HOLLYWOOD TERMINAL LOCATED AT TCL CHINESE THEATRE 6925 HOLLYWOOD BOULEVARD, HOLLYWOOD 90028 SANTA MONICA TERMINAL IS AT 1434 2ND ST., SANTA MONICA 90401
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Bill Murray and cellist Jan Vogler at The Wiltern on Dec. 5. 213.388.1400
Skirball Cultural Center’s PST: LA/LA-inspired Dec. 10 Hanukkah Family Festival. p. 84
Leslie Odom Jr. performing Dec. 8 at Walt Disney Concert Hall, downtown. p. 78
Jill Burrows chic, handmadein-L.A. babouche slippers. shopjillburrows.com
Gifts for discerning hosts (like this London-inspired set) at the Tom Dixon shop at Culver City’s Platform. 424.341.0878
The world’s largest live-cut Christmas tree (and great deals) at Citadel Outlets. p. 84
Miracle on Sante Fe, Westbound’s boozy holiday wonderland in downtown’s Arts District. 213.262.9291
Holiday lights and latenight shopping in Beverly Hills. lovebeverlyhills.com/bhopenlate
The California Science Center’s new, cutting-edge Imax laser projection system. p. 80
Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Room—Love Forever (1966/1994), on view at her exhibition at The Broad. p. 80
Sparkly blazers at L’Agence on Melrose Place. 323.546.0321
Barack Obama’s selection of L.A. native Kehinde Wiley to paint his official presidential portrait. kehindewiley.com
Artist Shepard Fairey’s solo exhibition, Damaged, in downtown L.A. through midDecember. eventbrite.com
Taking Shape: Degas as Sculptor at the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena. p. 82
Freshly made cannoli and bomboloni at new Eataly L.A. at Westfield Century City. p. 10
Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, at Universal Studios Hollywood. p. 80
Attending a taping of Jimmy Kimmel Live! in Hollywood with free tickets from 1iota. p. 80
The Martín Ramírez exhibit at the new Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles downtown. p. 51
Natural wines and sour beers at Bar Bandini in Echo Park. barbandini.com
L.A. jeweler Suzanne Kalan’s dazzling Cascade Fireworks collection. suzannekalan.com
Spotting migrating gray whales on a tour with Marina del Rey Sportfishing. mdrsf.net
1
Stuart Weitzman personalized shoe clips, available from A-Z at the Beverly Hills store. 310.860.9600
Pixies at the Hollywood Palladium Dec. 13. livenation.com The Sisley Paris Black Rose Cream Mask, available at Violet Grey. 323.782.9700
where in the world
WHERE is an international network of magazines first published in 1936 and distributed in 4,000 leading hotels in more than 50 places around the world. Look for us when you visit any of the following cities, or plan ahead for your next trip by visiting us online at wheretraveler.com UNITED STATES Alaska, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Georgia, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, Minneapolis/St. Paul,
Spicy wings at Burbank’s new Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken. 747.231.3990 Copper barware at the Elyx Boutique pop-up shop at the Original Farmers Market. p. 80 Clare V. totes at L.A. Original’s Westfield Century City pop-up. p. 14 Musso & Frank’s bucketlist-worthy martinis. p. 70 The kicky Quita Calzón cocktail at Rosaliné. p. 69 The seasonal black-truffle menu at Curtis Stone’s Maude. mauderestaurant.tocktix.com
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1, COURTESY STUART WEITZMAN; 10, COURTESY TOM DIXON; 15, COURTESY SUZANNE KALAN; 18, PHOTO BY CATHY CARVER AT THE HIRSHHORN MUSEUM AND CULTURE GARDEN; 20, COURTESY EATALY; 27, COURTESY L.A. ORIGINAL
WHERE 30 THINGS WE LOVE
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World Premiere Complication in Three Dimensions Celestial Panorama: Daily and Annual Sidereal Display Hours, Minutes, Seconds and Day and Night Indications Gravitational Triple Axis Tourbillon: 60 Sec, 5 Min, 20 Min Exclusive Jacob & Co. Manufacture JCAM11 Caliber 47mm diameter, 18K Rose Gold; Limited edition: 18 Pieces
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