West Hollywood Magazine, WHM -Summer/Staycation Guide by West Hollywood Magazine, WHM

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2 017 SU M M ER I S SU E : S TAYC AT I O N

SUMMER STAYCATION

Can’t get the week off you need to really explore New York City? Well, friends and neighbors, we suggest you do what hundreds of thousands of people from around the world do every year. Visit West Hollywood!

REKINDLING ROMANCE

West Hollywood is the perfect getaway spot for rekindling a romance, even for those of us who already live here. Just read the gossip blogs about those who travel from afar for that purpose.

AN ARTS & CULTURE ADVENTURE

A CELEBRITY CRUISE

If you’re into cruising celebrities — the Sunset Strip is the primary place to go (but not the only one).

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n o i t a c y a t S There are plenty of free and low-cost ways to vacation in your own city, such as immersing yourself in its arts and culture scene without spending big bucks.

IN THE KNOW

All Concierges hold the pulses on their cities. Being in the know and spotting trends are essential parts of being a Concierge. We Interviewed three from the most luxurious hotels in West Hollywood..

WHM WEST HOLLYWOOD MAGAZINE

s r o b h g i e n d n a s d n e i Dear fr AS A KID GROWING UP IN NORTH

By Henry E. (Hank) Scott

C A R O L I N A ( A N D AT T E N D I N G

P U B L I S H E R /E D I TO R- I N - C H I E F Henry E. (Hank) Scott henry@westhollywoodmag.net

Hank Scott is editor and publisher of WEHOville. com and West Hollywood Magazine.

T H E S A M E U N I V ER S I T Y A S A N DY

G R I F F I T H ) , I W AT C H E D T H E A N D Y G R I F F I T H S H O W A N D M AY B E R R Y

C R E AT I V E D I R EC TO R Allana Johnson allana@yokcreative.com

R F D . T H E F I C T I T I O U S M AY B E R R Y I N T H AT T E L E V I S I O N S E R I E S F E LT L I K E H O M E T O M E , O R AT L E A S T-

S A L E S & M A R K E T I N G D I R EC TO R Doug Stichler Doug@WeHoMediaCo.com B U S I N E S S D E V E LO P M E N T D I R EC TO R Owen Ward Owen@WeHoMediaCo.com A DV E R T I S I N G (323) 454-7707 advertising@westhollywoodmag.net FO L LOW U S westhollywoodmag.net facebook.com/westhollywoodmag.net instagram @westhollywoodmagazine

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LIK E WH AT I WA S R AISED TO THINK HOME SHOULD BE.

When Andy and Barney and Aunt Bee walked down the streets they constantly stopped to talk with friends and neighbors. Even Otis Campbell and Ernest T. Bass had a place in the hearts of their neighbors, who endured Bass’s crazy rock throwing and Campbell’s drunken sidewalk stumbles. Despite the inevitable tensions and disagreements, Mayberry was family. Almost six years ago I moved to West Hollywood, the eleventh city where I have lived, and what I hope will be the last one. In WeHo I have found my Mayberry -- a group of people who I consider friends and family and our own hilarious versions of Ernest T. Bass and Otis Campbell. But I also have found the sort of exotic and cosmopolitan community that made my 20 years in New York City so satisfying. West Hollywood is a city of 1.89 square miles that encompasses so many cultures. There’s that Russian-speaking world on the east side of town with shops that sell fascinating trinkets and restaurants that call to mind my time in Moscow. There is that fringe of hip and

cheap shops along the city’s southern border at Melrose Avenue that reminds me of life in the old days on Lower Broadway in New York City. There is the Design District, with a collection of stores that calls to mind the home décor shops of the Boulevard Saint Germain in Paris. And speaking of Paris, one could compare our Boystown nightlife district to the Marais. If you want to stalk the paparazzi while they stalk Hollywood celebrities, in West Hollywood there places to do that. If you lived in Mayberry you had to take time off to go fishing in the country or over to Asheville for a weekend of big city life. But given that there is so much to do in West Hollywood, and that we have roughly 200 restaurants and 18 hotels, we don’t need to leave town to take break. This issue of West Hollywood Magazine is meant to challenge the idea that your weekend getaway requires physically getting away. Just book that West Hollywood hotel room, find someone to watch the dog, leave the car at home, and create a bounce back email message that says you’re away for the weekend. That’s because you will be, in your state of mind if not in actuality. You will be in the West Hollywood that people come from around the world to explore and enjoy.

n o i t a c y a St TA K E A T H R EE- DAY W EEK EN D A N D

P H O T O ’ S C O U R T E S Y O F : S U N S E T T O W E R H O T E L , C H A T E A U M A R M O N T , L A U R E L H A R D W A R E , S O F I T E L W E S T H O L LY W O O D , C A T C H L A

E XPLORE WEHO

The end of summer is a month away and you still haven’t taken a vacation? Can’t afford that first class seat to Paris? Can’t get the week off you need to really explore New York City? Well, friends and neighbors, we suggest you do what hundreds of thousands of people from around the world do every year. Visit West Hollywood! That’s right. Take a three-day weekend and explore what the awesome Aussies, brilliant Brits and naughty New Yorkers find so wonderful about our little burg. All it takes is opening your eyes to the rich mix of style and nightlife and dining that characterize WeHo and that those of us who live here never really take time to experience.

We at West Hollywood Magazine have put together

three different getaway agendas. One is for those of you who are celebrity crazed, another is for those who are art fans, and finally, one is for those who need to spark new life into a relationship that’s feeling a bit rusty. But that’s not all. We’ve reached out to the concierges and front desk staffers at local hotels to get their recommentions.

PAC K L I K E YO U ’ R E H E A D I N G TO T H E B A L M Y AND

GL AMOROUS

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T E N D T O TA K E F O R G R A N T E D . M AY B E I T ’ S BOARD THE DOG AND DITCH THE C AR . NO

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G O I N G H O M E TO FEED FI D O W H I L E YO U ’ R E

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C A L L A TA X I O R L I M O S E R V I C E ( O R

U B E R O R LY F T ) T O G E T A R O U N D — Y O U ’ R E O N VA C AT I O N , R E M E M B E R , A N D Y O U D O N ’ T N E E D TO B E WO R RY I N G A B O U T FI N D I N G PA R K I N G .

DRESS OR THOSE SAD CARGO SHORTS?

On the pages that follow are our suggestions for a visit to West Hollywood that you’ll never forget.

WeHo is too expensive, you say? Think of it this way — for less than the cost of even an economy class ticket to Paris (not to mention a week’s stay in a hotel in the Marais) you can have the sort of glamorous weekend in WeHo that people cross the Atlantic for. And without having to take your shoes and belt off and go through an airport security line. But you must follow a couple of rules:

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YOUR

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T H AT

YO U ’ R E G O I N G O N VA C AT I O N , B U T D O N ’ T T E L L T H E M W H E R E . T H AT W I L L C U R B P H O N E CALLS FROM FRIENDS (AND COWORKERS) T H AT

WILL

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I T ’ S E A S Y T O H AV E A S TA R R Y- E Y E D S TAY C AY I N W E H O

C H AT E A U M A R M O N T If you’re into cruising celebrities — spotting in the flesh those folks you see on the screen at the Arclight or Regal Cinemas or on Bravo — the Sunset Strip is the primary place to go (but not the only one). One option is a weekend at the Chateau Marmont, which sits just east of the West Hollywood border on Sunset Boulevard. It’s a place where Robert Pattinson’s comings and goings are the subjects of almost-daily online gossip postings. Lindsay Lohan was temporarily banned from the Marmont after racking up a $46,000 bill that she didn’t pay. But you might run into her there now because Marmont owner Andre Balazs lifted the ban in 2012. Also keep your eyes open for the likes of Britney Spears, Colin Farrell, Elijah Wood, Matt Dillon, Christina Ricci, Tobey Maguire and Jude Law. But remember, don’t ask for autographs. You’re here to feel fabulous, and groveling for an autograph from an annoyed celeb is sure to set the Marmont staff on edge.

A Celebrity Cruise W I T H O U T L E AV I N G T O W N

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Once your limo works its way past the paparazzi and up Marmont Lane, the bellboy will escort you to your room. A standard room (about 300 square feet with a courtyard view) will cost you as little as $435 a night. But we suggest you go for the “premier one bedroom suite.” It will set you back $2,774 for two nights, including taxes. But you’ll get a kitchen and dining area and a large terrace with sweeping views of

PH OTO CO U RTE S Y O F LE PA RC S U ITE H OTE L

the city below. (On second thought, who needs a kitchen in a city with such fabulous restaurants?) That’s less expensive that an 11-hour flight to Paris, with you and your beloved crammed into an economy seat, which is costing around $2,000 at present.

THE SUNSET TOWER The Marmont restaurant is another place to celebrity cruise and dine, with entrees in the $20 to $55 range (the latter for the steak frites). But the joy of West Hollywood and its environs (which we call Greater WeHo) is that there are many other celebrity cruising options. We suggest that on Friday night you summon your limo and head to the Sunset Tower (ask the Marmont concierge for help in securing a reservation).

Dimitri, the famed maitre ‘d, will seat you in the Tower Bar, a restaurant whose food hasn’t won a James Beard prize, but Anjelica Huston, Bradley Cooper, John Mayer, Jason Reitman, Jason Sudeikis, Vince Vaughn and Barbara Davis — to name a few of the celebs likely dining near you — don’t seem to mind. Dimitri is known for his effusive welcome to celebrities and regulars and also for not suffering arrogant fools. Just ask that Arab sheik whose demand for a table because he was “royalty” sparked an invite from Dimitri to dine elsewhere. Saturday daytime? You can lounge by the Marmont pool and see what those stars look like without makeup artists at hand. Or you can take a trip down the dark side of Hollywood by signing up for a Dearly Departed tour. Consider it a way to say goodbye to celebrities you haven’t met (and never will).

BRITNEY SPEARS COLIN FARRELL ELIJAH WOOD MATT DILLON CHRISTINA RICCI TOBEY MAGUIRE AND JUDE LAW ANJELICA HUSTON BRADLEY COOPER JOHN MAYER JASON REITMAN JASON SUDEIKIS VINCE VAUGHN BARBARA DAVIS HILTON SISTERS CHELSEA HANDLER KRIS JENNER MARIAH CAREY CINDY CR AWFORD LARRY DAVID SYLVESTER STALLONE QUINCY JONES KENDALL AND KYLIE JENNER LARRY KING ARI EMANUEL CHRIS BROWN NAS JAMIE FOXX DAVID BECKHAM BOB SAGET MILLIE BOBBY BROWN PARIS HILTON HILARY DUFF MATT DAMON AL PACINO KATY PERRY KARDASHIANS TAYLOR LAUTNER JOSH HUTCHERSON

911

TH E D E A RLY D E PARTE D TO U R Driver Brian Donelly will have you laughing (not easy, considering the subject) during his two-and-a-half hour drive through Hollywood, West Hollywood and Beverly Hills. You’ll see the place on Ivar and Hollywood Boulevard where Fred Mertz collapsed on the street. You’ll see the last place where Mae West could say “come up and see me sometime.” You’ll see the actual bungalow at the Marmont where John Belushi overdosed. You’ll hear the 911 tapes of one of the Menendez brothers reporting the murder of his parents and of Joaquin Phoenix pleading for help for his brother, River, outside the Viper Room on Sunset Boulevard. It’s all poignant reminder that no matter how fabulous we are, we all end up in the same place. And if you’re into selfies, take advantage of that stop at Will Rogers Park in Beverly Hills, where your guide will urge you to get a photo taken

NT EAU MARMO R T E S Y C H AT PHOTO COU

S A R A H D A N D A S H Y/ T H E L O N D O N W E S T H O L LY W O O D

Of course, one can never totally guarantee a celeb spotting. Ultimately, you can see them anywhere, from Pavilions to Starbucks to Equinox. But when it comes to dinner there are a few places that up your odds of seeing a celeb or two. Craig’s, PUMP and Cecconi’s are always hot and a good bet for seeing a celeb.

My partner is crazy about celebrities. Is there a restaurant or club that we can get into without a month-ahead reservation to catch a glimpse of someone like Beyonce, or Justin Bieber or Kylie Jenner?

glitterati

E XPLORE C A SES LIKE MANSON, JANIS, WHITNE Y AND MICHAEL

next to the urinal where the late George Michaels got busted. Call (855) 600-DEAD to make a reservation. And consider taking a creepy tour of the museum at 5901 Santa Monica Blvd. before you hop onto the tour van. If that museum won’t make you hug one another (out of fright), what else could?

CR AIG’S WEST H O L LY W O O D

The spaghetti dish named after the late Hollywood producer, agent and actor Jerry Weintraub validates the film industry connection.

SUR

Craig Susser, who opened the

If reality TV is your passion, you can’t do worse than dinner at SUR, the set for Lisa Vanderpump’s Bravo reality show “Vanderpump Rules.”

restaurant about seven years ago, offers an American classic menu with an Italian twist Pasta carbonara, chicken parmigiana, cioppino are a few of those dishes. It also includes a selection of vegan

You’re almost certain to see at least one of the “real housewives” of Beverly Hills dining near you (after all, Vanderpump herself is one of them). But you’ll probably, PHOTO COURTESY OF SUR

I F R E A L I T Y T V I S YO U R P A S S I O N . . .

If you still have an appetite af ter t he Dearly Depar ted Tour, there are many options for a Saturday night dinner. Consider Craig’s on Melrose Avenue, where you might spot the Hilton sisters, Chelsea Handler, Kris Jenner or Mariah Carey, to name a few regulars.

dishes (remember, you’re still in Southern California!)

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F C AT C H L A

depending on your sexual orientation, want to goggle the SUR staff, whose sexual antics give “Vanderpump Rules” what plot it has. Keep an eye out for Jax Taylor and Tom Sandoval. With any luck, your hostess will be Stassi Schroeder or Kristen Doute. The food – mostly American classic — gets generally good ratings. But the food is not what SUR is about, is it? If sitting at a table SUR doesn’t satisfy your hunger for Lisa Vanderpump, you might consider walking up Robertson Boulevard to P.U.M.P., her restaurant and lounge on the corner of Santa Monica Boulevard, where she also hangs out. You also might quench that Vanderpump thirst with a cocktail at SUR made from her branded booze. The Strawberrini and SUR Cosmo both include Vanderpump Vodka.

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C AT C H L A Cindy Crawford, Larry David, Sylvester Stallone, Quincy Jones, Kendall and Kylie Jenner, Larry King, Ari Emanuel, Chris Brown, Nas, Jamie Foxx, David Beckham, Bob Saget, Millie Bobby Brown, Paris Hilton, Hilary Duff. So, you were looking for a celebrity menu? You’ll find it at Catch LA. The restaurant atop the roof of the building at the intersection of San Vicente Boulevard and Melrose Avenue is relatively new. But it already is so solidly booked that you’ll need to make a reservation well in advance of your staycay (or ask the agent or manager of a fabulous friend to book one for you.)

of spiced curry of Jidori chicken legs with potatoes, cucumber yogurt, cilantro and papadams. EP also offers a reasonably priced brunch menu. If you’re crazy about the Kardashians, you might dine elsewhere. The Australian website D’Marge interviewed Smillie and said he “still retains his own moral standing when it comes to celebrity endorsements. One line he will never cross is that of the Kardashians.” He has declined their multiple offers to film in his restaurant.

JUST DON’T GAWK

After dinner, you can head to Delilah on Santa Monica Boulevard near the old French Market. Don’t worry, those WeHo friends and neighbors who think you’re out of town will see you unless they’re part of the celebrity glitterati.

A mu s t i s d res s i n g l i ke a reality TV celebrity (the restaurant notes on its website that it reserves the right to turn away anyone inappropriately dressed). However, if you are a true celebrity, you’ll no doubt get away with those newly fashionable torn jeans. While you’re drooling over the celebs, don’t forget to at least take a bite of that $93 Alaskan King Crab or that $79 whole snapper. Yeah, it’s expensive. But remember you’re surrounded by stars — in the sky above and at the tables around you. Just don’t gawk.

EP & LP Another in what appears to be a growing trend of rooftop bars and restaurants is EP & LP. Located on the top of the building at 603 N. La Cienega Blvd. at Melrose, its outdoor patio is called Long Play (hence “LP”), and the restaurant on the floor below is called “EP” (extended play). Consider that one of its own-

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ers is Grant Smillie, a famous Aussie DJ. EP, LP, DJ — now it all starts to make sense. The rooftop offers views of the Hollywood Hills and features a bar where you may spot the likes of Matt Damon or Al Pacino. (Although they may be tucked away in the more reclusive rooftop section known as “Frankies.”) The bar offers Asian-Aussie influenced cocktails such as “Where Love Lives, a mix of mezcal, damiana, passion fruit, guava, Thai chili and lime, and bites like organic tofu fries and a panko breaded fish sandwich. If you’re a little afraid of heights, you also can book a table at EP downstairs, whose executive chef is the famed Louis Tikaram. This restaurant bills itself as “an Asian eating house without regional boundaries.” The food has hints of Chinese, Fijian and Vietnamese cuisine and includes fresh California produce. Grandma’s Fijian Chicken Curry is a good example, with a combination

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F C H AT E A U M A R M O N T

Delilah was opened by h.wood Group’s John Terzian and Brian Tollare last fall in the space once occupied by DBA and the somewhat infamous Voyeur, a topless club with a hint of bondage that became notorious nationally in 2010 when it was revealed that Republican National Committee reimbursed one of its members for his spending there. Delilah’s interior has a “Roaring Twenties” vibe, an atmosphere, its owners say “that attributes to the timeless charm and grace that once existed during Hollywood’s golden era.” The menu is pretty classic -- baby back ribs, filet mignon, macaroni and cheese with truffles. But if you’ve eaten elsewhere, you can enjoy Deliah for the cocktails and the atmosphere, which may well include Taylor Lautner, Katy Perry, Kendall Jenner, Shay Mitchell, Josh Hutcherson, Randy Jackson or E.J. Johnson.

P E T I T E R M I TA G E

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F P E T I T E R M I TA G E

The drink menu might require a dictionary. Specialty cocktails at Delilah include the Pink Pussycat which includes allaire rum, contratto bianco, barsol pisco, chardonnay, honey, rosehip and hibiscus tea and the Loca Loni combines banana and spice infused herradura reposado tequila, tuaca, tawny port, Frangelico and tea pot bitters and is served on a rock with a flamed cinnamon stick and banana chips. Now back to that 1,000 square foot room at the Marmont (bigger than your WeHo apartment?) for some sweet dreams about your star-spangled weekend.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUNSET TOWER

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUNSET MARQUIS

e r u t l u C t r A

E N J O Y I N G A R T & C U LT U R E ( O N A B U D G E T )

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P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F G A L L E R Y M O N TA I G N E

NO BUCKS NO PROBLEM

The Ramada Inn on Santa Monica Boulevard puts you within walking distance of everything. And, given the background of its manager and the preponderance of its customers, you just might feel for a few seconds that you are in Australia. Next door is Kitchen 24, where you might run into neighbors and friends. Across the street is Shake Shack, a popular burger joint, though it no longer has the long lines down the street that made dining there a labor of love. A room with a king bed at the Ramada will cost you about $210. An executive suite, which comes with a microwave and free movies and TV, runs around $230.

COLD WAR ESPIONAGE

Now to exploring art and culture in the Creative City. Given our small size, it’s a walkable daytime adventure.

Almost next door is Book Soup, 8818 W. Sunset Blvd., which may well have an author event when you stop by. On July 27, for example, Paul Vidich and Richard Lange will be signing cop-

You might start at Mystery Pier Books, the hidden gem at 8826 W. Sunset Blvd. at Holloway that is a must-see for zealous readers. Browse first editions (often signed)

There are plenty of places in West Hollywood where you can plan a lavish “staycation.” But there also are free and low-cost ways to vacation in your own city, such as immersing yourself in its arts and culture scene without spending big bucks. Let’s start with the hotels. One worth your consider-

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ation is the Best Western on Sunset Boulevard, which one visitor cited for its vending machine in the hall and its resident squirrel around the pool as well as its luxurious beds. As of publication, a single king goes for $309 a night and a suite with a balcony and a city view is about $500. There’s no restaurant on site, but Saddle Ranch will deliver from across the street.

IN CUBA. A CON MAN AND A HOOKER IN LOVE AND LOOKING FOR HIDDEN MILLIONS. WHAT COULD BE A BETTER WAY TO TAKE YOUR FOCUS OFF THE DAILY NEWS? The shop’s usual hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday, but calling ahead is recommended. (The store is a celebrity favorite, so you’ll be out of luck if you turn up at the same time Michael Caine has a private appointment to browse). Call (310) 657-5557 to schedule a time to visit.

ies of their respective novels “The Good Assassin” and “The Smack” at 7 p.m. Cold War espionage in Cuba. A con man and a hooker in love and looking for hidden millions. What could be a better way to take your focus off the daily news? Then walk south. If you haven’t done it yet, and so many haven’t, you should tour West Hollywood Library, 625 N. San Vicente Blvd. between Santa Monica and Melrose. The library offers more than books and magazines and a way to escape the noise. There are frequent art exhibitions and events. For example, on the first Thursday of every month it screens (for free) a classic film (“Citizen Kane” on Aug. 4 and “An American in Paris on Sept. 7). The library is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays.

Now you have only a fewmore blocks to go to check out the visual art scene.

written by celebrated authors such as Agatha Christie, Raymond Chandler, Jane Austen and Noel Coward. Other shoppers have included Johnny Depp, Bono, Daniel Craig, Jude Law, Cameron Diaz, Nicole Kidman, John Malkovich and Oprah. Harvey Jason and his son, Louis M. Jason, own and operate Mystery Pier books.

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First, stop at the Museum of Contemporary Art at the Pacific Design Center, 8687 Melrose Ave. between Santa Monica and Melrose. (Directly across the street from the library). The current exhibit, “Naked Is the Best Disguise,” features the work of L.A. artist Peter Shire and is up until Ju ly 2. You’l l see fasci nat i ng tables, lamps and chairs—including Shire’s celebrated Bel Air Chair (1981). There also will be more than 20 of the teapots whose design Shire is famous for. Admission is free, and MOCA is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays. Less than a mile away from MOCA at PDC, you’ll find an important architectural landmark that surely you’ve heard of, even if you haven’t seen it. It’s the Schindler House at the MAK

Center for Art and Architecture, 835 N. Kings Rd. at Willoughby. Schindler House is one of L.A.’s most beloved architectural and cultural landmarks. Built in 1922, the house was designed by Austrian architect Rudolph Schindler. It revolutionized residential architect as it didn’t have the conventional living room or dining room or bedrooms. It was shared for a time by Schindler and his wife, Pauline, with their friends, Clyde and Marian Chace, and then with competitor Richard Neutra and his wife Dione and son Frank. It also has been home to famous novelist Theodore Dreiser and composer John Cage. The MAK Center is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. Admission is $10, or $7 for students and seniors.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MAK CENTER FOR ART AND ARCHITECTURE

PHOTO COURTESY OF TRIGG ISON FINE ART

#ADVENTUREISOUTTHERE

PHOTO COURTESY OF MAK CENTER FOR ART AND ARCHITECTURE

PHOTO COURTESY OF M+B

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F G A L L E R Y M O N TA I G N E

A C U LT U R A L D E S T I N AT I O N

Now walk back west along Melrose Avenue to check out West Hollywood’s largest cluster art galleries, including Galerie Montaigne, George Stern Fine Arts and Louis Stern Fine Art. There are a few other galleries off that beaten path. For example, there’s Daniel Clayton Gallery at 513 N. Robertson Blvd., Denenberg at 417 San Vicente Blvd., M+B at 612 N. Almont Dr., the 8727 Gallery at 8727 Beverly Blvd. and Trigg Ison Fine Art at 9009 Beverly. There is a cluster of galleries in the Pacific Design Center, but most require appointments to visit.

? t u O s I t h g i L e Th H E R E â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S W H E R E A N D H O W T O R E K I N D L E T H AT L O V E .

R E M E M B E R C A LV I N K L E I N H O O K I N G U P

WITH E S TR ANG ED BOY TOY NICK G RUBER AT T H E C H AT E A U M A R M O N T A N D S E L E N A GOMEZ AND JUSTIN BIEBER LOOKING FOR LOVE IN ALL THE WRONG WEHO PL ACES?

West Hollywood is the perfect getaway spot for rekindling a romance, even for those of us who already live here. Just read the gossip blogs about those who travel from afar for that purpose

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Before you embark on this honeymoon, take a few steps to increase its likelihood of success. The first step is to make sure you and your partner agree that this weekend will be about you and your partner. Set up a bounce back email that tells

Now, where to stay? If you’re going to devote 48 hours to rekindling a romance, you might consider the Chateau Marmont, which a few years ago made NBC News.com’s list of top 10 places where celebrities go to hookup. If it works for them, why not for you? A list from Trip Advisor, the online travel booking website, lists The London, the Chamberlain, the Mondrian, Petit Ermitage, Le Parc Suite, Le Montrose, Sunset Tower, the Grafton on Sunset, the Sunset Marquis and Sofitel as WeHo’s most romantic hotels. But let’s face it, all of West Hollywood’s hotels are about romance, whether it be for a day or for a lifetime. If you’re a sugar daddy or sugar momma you might consider the $25,000 a night

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GR AFTON ON SUNSET

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F T H E L O N D O N W E S T H O L LY W O O D T H E R E D S U I T E B Y J O N A T H A N A D L E R : P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F A N D A Z ® W E S T H O L LY W O O D

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Please D O N OT DISTURB

You love her (or him) dearly. But let’s face it, after seven years, or 10, or 20, the spark no longer appears as quickly as it does on a good gas stove.

your friends and business associates that you’ll get back to them once the weekend is over. And don’t answer those text messages or telephone calls. In fact, record a new voice mail message that explains you are too far away to respond to calls this weekend. While that might not literally be true, you will be far away in your mind, because that’s what this staycay is all about.

suite designed by Vivienne Westwood at the London. The two-level penthouse is so expensive that it made TheStreet.com’s list of “Top 10 Most Expensive Hotel Suites in the World.” That is pricey, but consider that No. 1 on The Street’s list is the Royal Penthouse suite at the Hotel President Wilson in Geneva, priced at $67,000 a night (not clear whether 11 a.m. is a firm checkout time for that suite). If you think you’ll be spending all your time in that Vivienne Westwood bed wondering how you’ll pay for it, there are cheaper romantic options at the London and elsewhere. For example, the Andaz offers the visually stimulating Red Suite, styled by noted designer Jonathan Adler. Located on the 12th floor, it offers a great view south of West Hollywood and Greater L.A. You’ll not only feel comfortable because of the view and the design (Adler has described the bedroom as a “floaty, dreamlike space”), you’ll also feel good because 30% of the rate charged for your room goes to (RED), the organization established by Bono and Bobby Shriver’s AIDS organization. Once you’ve booked your hotel, consider dining in the restaurant there or in a restaurant at another hotel. That makes it less likely that you’ll encounter a neighbor or local friend who will drag you back into your day-to-day life and out of the romantic cloud that this staycation is all about. 43

34. Your house, containing everything you own, catches fire. After saving your loved ones and pets, you have time to safely make a final dash to save any one item. What would it be? Why?

18. W hat is your most terrible memory? 19. If you knew that in one year you would die suddenly, would you change anything about the way you are now living? Why?

35. Of all the people in your family, whose death would you find most disturbing? Why?

20. What does friendship mean to you? 21. W hat roles do love and affection play in your life?

As to how to rekindle that relationship, there are several options, one of which you can do without leaving your room. Mandy Len Catron explains it in “To Fall in Love with Anyone, Do This,” an article by her published in The New York Times in 2015 and now available as a podcast.

The concept is for two people, whether new acquaintances or long-time lovers, to face one another and take turns asking three sets of 36 questions or requests designed to increase the level of intimacy. After that, you look into one another’s eyes for four solid minutes, and you’re in love!

THE QUESTIONS? SET ONE 1. Given the choice of anyone in the world, whom would you want as a dinner guest? 2. Would you like to be famous? In what way? 3. Before making a telephone call, do

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23. How close and warm is your family? Do you feel your childhood was happier than most other people’s? 24. How do you feel about your relationship with your mother?

SET THREE you ever rehearse what you are going to say? Why? 4. W hat would constitute a “perfect” day for you? 5. W hen did you last sing to yourself? To someone else? 6. If you were able to live to the age of 90 and retain either the mind or body of a 30-year-old for the last 60 years of your life, which would you want? 7. Do you have a secret hunch about how you will die? 8. Name three things you and your partner appear to have in common. 9. For what in your life do you feel most grateful? 10. I f you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be? 11. Take four minutes and tell your partner your life story in as much detail as possible.

12. I f you could wake up tomorrow having gained any one quality or ability, what would it be?

SET TWO 13. I f a crystal ball could tell you the truth about yourself, your life, the future or anything else, what would you want to know? 14. I s there something that you’ve dreamed of doing for a long time? Why haven’t you done it? 15. W hat is the greatest accomplishment of your life? 16. W hat do you value most in a friendship? 17. W hat is your most treasured memory?

25. Make three true “we” statements each. For instance, “We are both in this room feeling ... ”

problem you have chosen.

26. Complete this sentence: “I wish I had someone with whom I could share ...” 27. I f you were going to become a close friend with your partner, please share what would be important for him or her to know. 28. Tell your partner what you like about them; be very honest this time, saying things that you might not say to someone you’ve just met. 29. Share with your partner an embarrassing moment in your life. 30. W hen did you last cry in front of another person? By yourself? 31. Tell your partner something that you like about them already. 32. W hat, if anything, is too serious to be joked about? 33. If you were to die this evening with no opportunity to communicate with anyone, what would you most regret not having told someone? Why haven’t you told them yet?

P H OTO G R A P H Y: B R O O K L A R K

s n o i t s e u The Q

36. Share a personal problem and ask your partner’s advice on how he or she might handle it. Also, ask your partner to reflect back to you how you seem to be feeling about the

22. A lternate sharing something you consider a positive characteristic of your partner. Share a total of five items.

Larry Flynt’s Hustler Hollywood, still open on the corner of Sunset and Hilldale but moving at some point, is an open and airy emporium that includes a cafe when you’re ready to take a break from exploring the vibrators and lubricants and adult videos that might take your relationship into previously unexplored territory. The Pleasure Chest, on Santa Monica Boulevard near Genesee, is stocked with a similar array of products. Perhaps you and your partner spend some time in bed in your hotel reading aloud from “The Little Black Book of Kama Sutra,” which Pleasure Chest offers for $9.95. Hustler and Pleasure Chest both offer a variety of toys for adults to play with, some covered in glittering gold.

THE PLEASURE CHEST

If this staycation is to entertain a boyfriend or girlfriend visiting from far away, you might consider trying out Pleasure Chest’s “We Vibe Sync,” a couples vibrator that can be activated from anywhere in the world (with a Wi-Fi connection). As one user noted: “Great for long distance relationships I got this for my girlfriend. She lives in New York, I’m in Chicago. It took our Skype game to the next level ... I can control her orgasms from thousands of miles away. Pretty dope.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PLEASURE CHEST

I N YO U R H E A R T B U T N OT E X P R E S S I N G I T I N B ED?

W H AT D O Y O U D O I F Y O U ’ R E F E E L I N G T H E L O V E D E E P

stimulate

designed to

There are two West Hollywood stores that can help with that both of which offer a variety of accoutrements designed to stimulate your, uh, imagination.

Just remember, hard as it is to do, turn that cell phone off for the duration of your stay. Why pursue virtual relationships, no matter how briefly stimulating, when the one you love is in bed beside you?

in the know A SK A CONCIERGE

She not only can tell you where to go and what to do in WeHo, you can count on Sarah for advice for that next vacation elsewhere. Taking her profession and passion beyond the desk, she also hosts an online travel series called “Ask A Concierge” (http://askaconcierge.tv/ ), where she shares weekly travel tip videos on where to eat, what to see and where to go in Los Angeles… and around the world. Q. What restaurant would you recommend for a romantic dinner? Sarah: Our restaurant, Boxwood on the Roof! There’s no better way to enjoy the balmy summer evenings than at our rooftop restaurant. Noteworthy cuisine overlooking views of the city is the perfect date night destination. But if you are seeking a restaurant outside of a hotel, Gracias Madre has a beautiful patio and delicious, healthy cuisine.

SA R A H DA NDA SH Y C A N GUIDE YOU A ROUND WEHO, A ND A ROUND THE WOR LD

Q. What restaurant would you recommend for my dinner with the family? Sarah: Taste on Melrose is a perfect family spot. It’s a nice midrange restaurant with a fun scene.

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Q. My partner is crazy about celebrities. Is there a restaurant or club that we can get into without a month-ahead reservation to catch a glimpse of someone like Beyonce, or Justin Bieber or Kylie Jenner? Sarah: Of course, one can never totally guarantee a celeb spotting. Ultimately, you can see them anywhere, from Pavilions to Starbucks to Equinox. But when it comes to dinner there are a few places that up your odds of seeing a celeb or two. Craig’s, PUMP and Cecconi’s are always hot and a good bet for seeing a celeb. Q. We want to dance! Where should we go if we’re gay? If we’re straight? Sarah: The Abbey is the cornerstone of West Hollywood—gay, straight, curious, it’s a dance spot that welcomes all! Otherwise, Micky’s is great for the gay scene and The Doheny Room is popular if you’re looking for a straight lounge.

Q. Is there a quiet and romantic bar you would recommend where the two of us can hold hands and talk? If we’re gay? If we’re straight? Sarah: Zinque on Melrose is a gay/ straight friendly wine bar and a perfect place to catch up over a glass of vino. Q. I want to buy an anniversar y present for my spouse? Any places you would recommend? Sarah: Westime is great if there are watch lovers in the family. Otherwise, Restoration Hardware is the perfect for those looking to enhance the home with their unique and comfortable designs and homewares. A bonus, they have rooftop park thats worth a visit! Q. Shhh, keep this a secret! But I’m planning to propose marriage to my partner this weekend. Is there a cool place you’d recommend where I could do that? Sarah: Our rooftop restaurant is perfect for a proposal! Make a staycation out of the celebration or pop the surprise over a romantic dinner.

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F C AT C H L A

Sarah Dandashy is The London West Hollywood’s lead concierge. With over 12 years of concierge experience in the Beverly Hills area, she is a recognized member of Les Clefs d’Or, the professional organization of concierges. In 2015, Les Clefs d’Or even named her “World’s Best Young Concierge.”

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F T H E L O N D O N W E S T H O L LY W O O D

THE LONDON

where to go

TH E M O N D RI A N With 20+ years on the job, the Mondrian’s Greg Hall, assisted by Tara Goldsborough, know where to go (and what’s gone) Beach Nation has closed (and we still don’t know what’s replacing it). Yes, V Cheese Shoppe also has closed, but its sister, V Wine Bar, is still hidden away around the corner. And you’ll be able to find falafel before long on Santa Monica Boulevard at the Halal Guys where Champagne French Bakery used to be. As a resident, you no doubt know that West Hollywood is a constantly evolving city. Who should you turn to keep up to date? That would be Greg Hall, who moved to Los Angeles from Atlanta and has worked as a concierge at the Mondrian for almost two decades. With the help of fellow concierge Tara Goldsborough, a singer-songwriter, actor and musician originally from Missouri, we got answers to these questions:

Greg and Tara: Ivory on Sunset- table 75, the “R & J” table. Mr. Montague and Ms. Capulet would approve. There’s also Perch L.A. and The Little Door. Q. What restaurantwould a glimpse of someone like Beyonce, or Justin Bieber or Kylie Jenner? Greg & Tara: Craig’s, Catch L.A., Jones on 3rd.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MONDRIAN

Q. What restaurant would you recommend for a romantic dinner?

Q. We want to dance! Where should we go if we’re gay? If we’re straight? Greg & Tara: If you’re just the right amount of gay, you’ll dance almost anywhere, but sure bets are “Bears in Space” at Akbar and Precinct DTLA. General interest dance-offs: Nightingale and 1OAK. Q. Is there a quiet and romantic bar you wou ld recom mend where t he t wo of us can hold hands and talk? If we’re gay? If we’re straight?

Q. Shhh, keep this a secret! But I’m planning to propose marriage to my partner this weekend. Is there a cool place you’d recommend where I could do that? Greg & Tara: Cliffside above El Matador Beach or brave the trail down and cross through the rocky arch at low tide to the more secluded El Pescador. Mondrian guest rooms are a popular choice and can be appointed with rose petals, flowers, champagne and more. Many have chosen the south-facing window seats at Skybar -- twilight is best.

Greg & Tara: EP & LP, Pearls Liquor Bar, the Harlowe. Q. I want to buy an anniversary present for my spouse? Any places you would recommend? Greg & Tara: First year paper: Soolip. Third year/leather: 665 West Hollywood or Exhibit at The Mondrian for one-of-a-kind collectibles.

Q. What restaurant would you recommend for a romantic dinner? James: The Little Door Q. What restaurant would you recommend for my dinner with the family? James: Connie and Teds, Riot House Restaurant and Bar

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P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F L E P A R C S U I T E S : P H O T O O F A N D A Z W E S T H O L LY W O O D

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUR

Luther James is an assistant front office manager at the Andaz who was born in

PHOTO COU RTE SY O F L AU RE L HARDWARE

TH E A N DA Z

Vicenza, Italy, and traveled through Europe often as a child which contributed to his affinity for the hospitality industry. James has been with Hyatt since February 2014 and at Andaz West Hollywood for about a year. In his free time he enjoys hiking in Malibu, trying out new brunch spots and traveling. His favorite vacation spots include San Diego, San Francisco and Colorado.

Q. We want to dance! Where should we go if we’re gay? If we’re straight?

Q. My partner is crazy about celebrities. Is there a restaurant or club that we can get into without a monthahead reservation to catch a glimpse of someone like Beyonce, or Justin Bieber or Kylie Jenner?

James: The Abbey, Argyle

James: SUR and PUMP

James: Laurel Hardware

Q. Is there a quiet and romantic bar you would recommend where the two of us can hold hands and talk? If we’re gay? If we’re straight?

Q. I want to buy an anniversary present for my spouse? Any places you would recommend?

James: Sunset Plaza shops, Melrose Avenue Q. Shhh, keep this a secret! But I’m planning to propose marriage to my partner this weekend. Is there a cool place you’d recommend where I could do that? James: Consider going sky high to pop the question to your partner. The Andaz West Hollywood rooftop. The building’s height and its placement mean is higher above sea level than any other WeHo place, and both the proposal and views are likely to be breathtaking. 53

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