WOW Creations Oscars Gift Suite – March 8, 2024 – The Universal Hilton, Universal City, CA.

WOW Creations Salute to the OSCARS, Lifestyle Gifting Suite. Oscar Nominees, Oscar Winners, Influencers, Sport Stars, and Reality Stars. The Harris Brothers do not disappoint ever, because they make the best suite in Hollywood. They always make everyone feel so comfortable, just like part of one big happy Hollywood family. Some of the other suites are snobby and if you’re not a direct nominee they make you feel like you’re just second rate. But everyone who attends is happy and gifted with great products and lovely compliments. Here are some of the vendors that were there: Kate’s Koffee Sun Chips, Eco MD, Opt Health, Conflicting Loyalties, Aiden Gabor, IV On Call, Children’s First TV, Whey Up , Chroma Italy Shampoo, Dancing Dolphin Essences , Dr. Monica’s Natural Beauty, St. Clair,  Funtology, Shakyre Renee Jewelry, Joy Moy, Jelly Belly, and Max Dahlia.

The hotel provided a great location for their annual Oscar Gifting suite. There was lovely live music happening with a harpist setting the calming environment. Everyone was having a blast, mingling, and comparing notes of their own Oscar and award season experience. And of course, The Harris brothers greet everyone and offer a nice glass of champagne to start their gifting journey. Just loved every minute of all of it!!

http://www.wowcreationsmedia.com/

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Chicago The Musical – March 6, 2024 – Broadway In Hollywood – The Hollywood Pantages Theater – Hollywood, CA.

What can you say about this musical Institution, this show delivers, and was simply fantastic. This rendition of this incredible piece of musical history did not disappoint.

Chicago is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one showstopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen. In the whirlwind of Chicago’s Jazz Age, two of the Cook County Jail’s most notorious murderesses—vaudeville star Velma Kelly and chorus girl Roxie Hart—become fierce rivals as they compete for headlines amidst a media frenzy. Broadway’s longest-running musical has been razzle dazzling audiences for 27 years, and after more than 10,000 performances, 6 Tony Awards®, 2 Olivier Awards, and a Grammy®, with so many accolades it tough to list them all!

Lyrics by Fred Ebb, Music John Kander, Book by Fred Ebb, and Bob Fosse, original production, choreographed and directed by Bob Fosse. Starring, Kailin Brown, Katie Freiden, Connor Sullivan, Robert Quiles, J. Terrell, and Paul Armani. The ensemble was equally amazing, the dancers were so perfect, depicting all of Bob Fosses iconic moves.

They had the orchestra on risers in the middle of the stage with no real set other than them. But it just all worked so well, truly a phenonium not to be missed.

Of course, the wonderful Hollywood Pantages Theater is always something to be seen. It is Art Deco at Its finest. The Hollywood Pantages Theatre, formerly known as RKO Pantages Theatre, is located at Hollywood and Vine in the Hollywood neighborhood of Los AngelesCalifornia, United States. Designed by architect B. Marcus Priteca, it was the last theater built by the vaudeville impresario Alexander Pantages. The palatial Art Deco theater opened on June 4, 1930, as part of the Pantages Theatre Circuit.

The Pantages Theatre Circuit was part of vaudeville, and the new Hollywood theater programmed first-run movies alternating through the day with vaudeville acts for its first two years. But like other theaters during the Great Depression, it was forced to economize and thereafter operated primarily as a movie theater, though live entertainment was presented occasionally.

Alexander Pantages sold the Hollywood landmark in 1932 to Fox West Coast Theaters. In 1949, Howard Hughes acquired the Hollywood Pantages for his RKO Theatre Circuit and moved his personal offices to the building’s second floor. From 1949 through 1959, the theater hosted the American motion picture industry’s annual Academy Award Ceremonies. It continued to be a major venue for roadshow movies into the 1970s. From 1965, it was operated by Pacific Theatres. The Hollywood Pantages closed as a movie theater in January 1977, and re-opened the following month with Bubbling Brown Sugar, the first of the many stage productions that have since become its regular fare.

Now operated by an arm of the Nederlander Organization, the Hollywood Pantages is one of Los Angeles’ leading venues for live theater (the five highest-grossing weeks in L.A.’s theatrical history were all shows at the Hollywood Pantages). The theater has recently presented large-scale Broadway musicals such as Disney’s The Lion King, which ran at the theatre for over two years, and hosted the long-running Los Angeles production of the Broadway musical Wicked.

Every time I see a show that is part of Broadway in Hollywood I am entertained and always excited! It’s time to be treated to Broadway at its finest, check out this season’s great rundown now. https://www.broadwayinhollywood.com/seasonpackages

The Hollywood Pantages Theater

6233 Hollywood Boulevard
HollywoodCalifornia
90028

https://www.broadwayinhollywood.com

*Note Some content was taken of their website.

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February 7, 2024 – Message In A Bottle – The Pantages Theater – Hollywood, CA.

What an innovative concept, dancing to Stings Songbook – just something you have to see! I love hearing all of his music set to stories through dance. It’s just as simple as that. Sting is a genius and, when you couple that with dance, in all its forms it has to be a winner. Run and don’t walk to see Message in A Bottle. Based on the songs of Sting and choreography by Kate Prince, it’s an extraordinary dance show. It has a very limited run at The Pantages Theater, from February 6 – February 11, 2024.

This is a tale of hope. The story is about the peaceful village of Bebko which is alive with joyous celebrations. Suddenly under attack, everything changes forever. Three siblings, Leto, Mati and Tana, must embark on perilous journeys in order to survive.

The cast of dancers is astounding, they are all incredible: Oliver Andrews, Lindon Barr, Deavion Brown, David Cottle, Harrison Dowzell, Nestor Garcia Gonzalez, Natasha Gooden, Lizzie Gough, Anna Halstrom, Megan Ingram, Ajani Johnson – Goffee, Charlotte Lee, Daniella May, Dylan Mayoral, Serena McCall, Lukas McFarlane, Robbie Ordona, Lara Renaud, Hannah Sandilands, Jessey Stol, Steven Thompson, Gavin Vincent, Malachi Welch.

MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE is a spectacular new dance-theatre show from five-time Olivier Award nominee, Kate Prince, inspired by and set to the iconic hits of 17-time Grammy Award-winning artist Sting, including Every Breath You Take, Roxanne, Walking On The Moon and more. With a mix of exhilarating dance styles, high energy footwork and breath-taking athleticism, MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE tells a unifying and uplifting story of humanity and hope. 

A Sadler’s Wells & Universal Music UK Production, with ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company. Co-produced with Birmingham Hippodrome and The Lowry, Salford

About The Pantages Theater:

In the heart of Hollywood, on Hollywood Boulevard, right down the block from Vine Street, stands the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. It’s a fitting location: The Pantages has become one of the greatest landmarks of Hollywood, signifying both the glorious past and adventuresome future of the world’s entertainment capital.

The Hollywood Pantages has a history as grand and diverse as the stage and screen fare which audiences have flocked to enjoy there for half a century. These days it’s one of Los Angeles’ leading homes of legitimate theatre (the five highest-grossing weeks in L.A.’s theatrical history were all shows at the Pantages) and a favorite “location” for tv shows, movies and music videos. In the past, it has been a movie house, with live vaudeville acts between features as well as the site of many gala premieres and “spectaculars.” For ten years the Hollywood Pantages Theatre was the home of the glittering Academy Awards Presentations.

While the use of the Hollywood Pantages Theatre may have changed over the years, the theatre does not appear all that different today. After several touch-ups over the years, the Hollywood Boulevard showplace was renovated at the turn of the 21st century to recapture its 1930 look and luxury. When the theatre reopened in September 2000, some 300 people had repainted nearly every inch of the theatre, restored its outer lobby and missing chandeliers, refurbished its walls and prepared it for the new century.

It’s an iconic spot for all of this great entertainment that I get to write about, so listen to me and go see this great unique show, you will be glad you did!!

 The Pantages Theater

6233 HOLLYWOOD BOULEVARD
LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA 90028

(323) 468-1770

https://www.broadwayinhollywood.com

·      Note some content was taken off of their website.

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The Aster Hotel – WOW Creations Emmy’s Gift Suite – January 12, 2024 – Hollywood, CA.

It’s always such a blast to go to the Harris Brothers gift suite. They really make you feel so at home. This year it was at a new location, The Rooftop of the Aster Hotel in Hollywood. Capitol records building in tow, the photo opps were just astounding.

I am sometimes wearing two hats, this day was no exception. I was having my three-time Grammy Client Gordon Goodwin, imbibe in everything a good Emmys gift suite has to offer. He had a blast and the conversation kept getting better.

There was a real variety of gift givers, everyone having wonderful stories about their products.

Here are all the great vendors that participated in the gift suite:

www.theasterla.com Hollywood’s Trendiest new Hotel

www.nouhaus.co.kr Luxury Classic Massage Chairs

www.rvivl.co Westside Wellness Spa

www.luxurygala.com 2024 Oscar Night Gala

www.arwin.shop Asian based biochem skincare www.milestone-brands – Tequila – Gin brand

www.barelux.com Vegan Anti Age Support oil

www.eathappygrub.com Gourmet Pancake Mix

www.thehealingtrilogy.com Hollywood psychic services

www.whimsdelights.com gourmet treats

www.centralcalicaregivers.net California CBD

www.ecomdskincare.com

www.tobinjames.com California Sparkling Wine

www.ubatubaacai.com

www.hope929.org Creating equity for historical marginalized group www.mbluelabs.com

www.lacasadelcamino.com Historic Laguna Beach Hotel

www.ungunninstitute.com

www.allthingsdrbobbi.com Luxury Toothbrushes

www.daxhaircare

www.drinkparch.com Spirits and Cocktails

www.goatmilkstuff.com

www.parsprivatereservecigars.com luxury cigars

www.brendasbotanicalstaos.com

www.helenficalora.com Charms and bracelets

www.chocolathiereve.com Gourmet chocolates www.drnaz.net Certified Hypnotherapist Stella    Singleton-Jones Sculptor – Author www.houseoforangeco.com

www.dorothymaedominga.com

www.amarraglambodyproducts.com

www.simplythecupcake.com Gourmet CupCakes www.maryfalkingham.com Luxury Floral Designs www.randysdonuts.com

Whether I am writing for my website or showing a publicity client the ropes, these suites are always the best days. Filled with love, laughter, and a really comforting feeling from Mark and Matt. Even when I talk to fellow gift recipients, they always say the same thing. This is just the best gift suite, no hassles, just love all the way around. I am happy to be an invitee at every suite the Harris brothers provide!!  Thanks so much Mark & Matt for always including me in your amazing gift suite. Ok – Oscars here we come!!!!

The Aster Hotel

1717 Vine Street
Los Angeles, CA 90028

Phone: 323 962 1717

https://www.theasterla.com

WOW Creations

www.wowcreationsmedia.com

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January 7, 2024 – Dinner – Opal Restaurant & Bar – Santa Barbara, CA.

Back in 2021, when Covid was still a global pandemic, I went to Santa Barbara on January 11 and did a takeout from Opal Restaurant & Bar for a Birthday celebration. The food was so amazing, but there’s no experience like fine dining and sitting down at the restaurant to enjoy it in real time. The piping delicious dishes come presented from the kitchen and a fantastic meal is born. This is pretty much my latest experience at Opal Restaurant & Bar in Santa Barbara.

Here’s What I tried:

Cocktails:

Mandarin Ginger Cosmo, with hanger one mandarin vodka, ginger, triple sec, cranberry, lime juice. A nice refreshing drink, it goes down very easily.

Black Berry Jalapeno Margarita, with ghost tequila, blackberry-jalapeno puree, lime juice, cuarenta y tres. This one has a bit of a kick, but delicious just the same.

Classic Vodka Martini, with 2 olives served in a proper martini glass. They did a great job on this favorite cocktail.

Soup:

Eggplant mushroom cream soup with mushroom croutons. Very creamy and smooth, the perfect way to start my glorious meal.

Starters:

Opal Classic Caesar Salad, with fresh grated Parmigiano Reggiano and garlic croutons. The perfect amount of everything, I highly recommend.

Pan Seared Fresh Crab Cake on a sesame beurre blanc,

with tender wild red deep sea crab meat cake, a drizzle of wasabi cream, fresh mango salsa and crispy potato strings. A nice rendition of this seafood classic.

Shredded Phyllo Wrapped Tiger Prawns, flash fried served with coconut curry dipping sauce. On Napa cabbage salad with Mandarin oranges, toasted almonds, julienne vegetables, and our sesame Asian vinaigrette. This is their go-to and it is just the best.

Asian Glazed Flash-Fried Calamari, with baby arugula, and crispy Asian rice noodles. It is done in strips and is light and sweet, just heavenly.

Warm Slow Roasted Duck confit on Portobello Mushroom Ravioli,

with toasted macadamia nuts and sun-dried cherries in a Sage brown butter Sauce. I am a sucker for anything mushroom, so this dish scored high on my culinary list.

Pan Seared Fresh Sea Scallops on warm angel hair pasta.

with watercress, avocado, and a roasted red pepper

vinaigrette. This dish is remarkable, it is neither a pasta dish but more of a salad, and the sweet sauce really brings it all home for me.

Pizza:

Homemade Smoked Chicken Pizza with smoked mozzarella and a chipotle glaze, tomatoes, shaved red onions, and fresh cilantro. Their pizza oven is center stage, so you really need to try any of their pizzas.

Homemade Wild Mushroom Pizza, another fantastic pizza, with pesto, goat cheese, smoked mozzarella, caramelized onions, red tomato. arugula, watercress, and gourmet truffle sea salt.

Homemade Basil Fettuccine with sauteed tiger shrimp with homemade pesto, tomatoes, fire roasted red pepper and smoked mozzarella cream sauce. I loved the subtle flavors of the basil fettuccine and, when you add the shrimp, it’s just a real winner.

Vegetable Napoleon, with gorgonzola potato cake, wild mushrooms grilled portobello mushroom, grilled eggplant, sauteed garlic spinach, grilled polenta, roasted red peppers, roasted tomato sauce, fresh grated parmigiana, and Reggiano. This dish is a feat in itself. It is piled very high, and each layer is wonderfully put together. For the vegetarian, it’s an amazing combination for flavors.

Opal’s Paella, with bay scallops, tiger prawns, black mussels, chicken, chorizo sausage*, saffron rice, tomatoes, cilantro, and Anaheim chiles, in a garlic herb broth. The seafood is super fresh, and the flavors are divine.

Herb Grilled Filet Mignon, with whipped truffle butter, Yukon potatoes, sauteed broccoli and green beans and a port wine-Marsala and wild mushroom cream sauce. The cream sauce will make you so happy, and the tenderness of the filet will keep you coming back for more.

Grilled Australian Lamb Chops, with sauteed garlic spinach, whipped Yukon potatoes, rosemary, and sweet onion zinfandel sauce. These are large bone-in lamb chops that do not disappoint.

Dessert:

“Like water for chocolate” Surprise Hint: Belgian Callebaut Dark Chocolate and Raspberries, a delightful chocolate-forward dessert, really great with the Zinfandel.

Tahitian Vanilla bean Creme Brulee, with Rich Custard with a Caramelized Sugar Top. With Fresh Whipped Cream and a Vanilla Bean Creme Anglaise. A very rich, creamy, Brulee that really hits the spot.

Homemade Meyer lemon Tartlet, with Meyer lemon sabayon mousse with creme anglaise and fresh berries. I love anything lemon, so this was a nice way to end my remarkable meal.

Opal’s interiors are very warm and welcoming, with large banquets, large bay windows for seating, beam ceilings, a Euro Asian feel alongside Art Nouveau. There are lovely ceiling fans, wood floors, an open kitchen, and the star of the show is a large pizza oven. My very smart server Shannon Kennedy told me that they cook other things besides pizza in their 500-degree pizza oven.

With a track record of over 30 years, owners Tina Takaya and Richard Yates feel the key to a successful restaurant is the passion for creating the highest quality food and service with a commitment to consistently providing that level of quality every time you dine with us. And now they have another amazing place to dine. I have not been to their sister restaurant OKU. I was invited, so you will see that review sometime soon.

What I truly love about Opal Restaurant & Bar is how they treat their customers and how they have sustained such wonderful food through all of the challenges the last years have brought to the restaurant industry. They have a very strong following, some happy eaters come in once a week, others are local, dates, families, all enjoying the fruits of Opals labor on a regular basis. Manager Matt Phar was also very accommodating, he made sure I was happy and satisfied along my delicious culinary journey at Opals. He told me about the charities that Opal supports, as well as all of the community events with their business neighbors, that they participate in.  Plus, their waitstaff is seasoned and very interested in their customers. They take great care of all customers like family. My direct neighbors, 2 couples who were completely enjoying their meals. They added just the right amount of conversation from folks that are regular customers, thank you, KellyJane, Jamie, Felipe, and Jane. Their menu is creative and unique. From the moment you walk in you are treated like family, and when their marvelous cuisine hits your taste buds you too will know that you don’t need to look any further for the complete wonderful culinary experience at Opal Restaurant in Santa Barbara, California. The true Santa Barbara gastronomic experience.

Opal Restaurant & Bar
1325 State St.
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Phone: (805) 966-9676
opalrestaurantandbar.com

* Note some content was taken off of their website.

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Lunch – December 27, 2023 – Kafe Royale – Calimesa, CA.

Nestled in the back corner of a very busy Mini Mall is a great place that you would only know about through word of mouth or if you’re a local. Kafe Royale delivers goodness that you really can’t find anywhere else.

Here’s What I Tried:

Benedicts:

Southern Benedict, Country biscuit topped with patty sausage, poached eggs & country gravy. Served with a choice of potatoes. Kafe Royale biscuits and gravy are a showstopper, what more can I say?

Omelets:

Sensational Omelet, with mushrooms, cheddar cheese, bacon, sausage, onions, ham & bell peppers, country potatoes with bell peppers & onions, and toast. A very big omelet, enough for two people easily. The sausage in the omelet is what made it for me, but the smooth cheesy goodness also shined.

Lunch:

Hot Specialty Sandwiches:

Hot Turkey Sandwich, with turkey gravy, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and served open faced. If you missed out on any part of Thanksgiving then this sandwich is for you, especially the gravy part for me.

⅓ lb. Charbroiled Burgers:

Royale Cheeseburger, served with bacon, avocado, sauteed mushrooms and American cheese. A large burger with tasty ingredients, what more could you want.

Wrap:

Fish Taco Wrap, with a flour tortilla with fried cod filet, cabbage, pico de gallo and spicy ranch sauce. These are large wraps, as well as very yummy, so share it with a friend.

Salad:

Kafe Cobb, with grilled chicken breast, bacon, avocado, hard boiled eggs, diced tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles with ranch dressing, and coleslaw. I am a big fan of a true cobb salad and this salad covered all of my bases.

Soup & Chili:

Split Pea Soup, this would be my go-to soup, love the rich creamy texture.

Beef Vegetable Soup, chalk full of all kinds of vegetables and big chucks of heart neat, a nice well-rounded soup.

Homemade Chili Cup, served with diced onions and shredded cheese, a great hearty chili.

Onion Rings, I consider myself an onion ring officiant, and these did not disappoint. Nice hard batter with super tender delicious onions on the inside.

Baby Back Rib Meals:

1/4 Rack, with sweet potato fries, fall of the bone tender, with a great home made sauce.

Dessert:

Cinnamon Swirl Buns, served warm, just the perfect way to end my wonderful breakfast.

Usually, I would pair food with wine, but it was too early in the day, and I opted not to, but they do serve beer and wine. They make all of their sauces and salsa from scratch daily. Meli comes in at 5am every day and is the backbone to these wonderful homemade treats.

They have a very large outdoor patio and 3 dining rooms. They play top 40 and eighties music. You can see families, girls lunch klatch, and regulars in their dining room. The room that I was in had large padded comfy club chairs.

The premiere family breakfast and lunch restaurant for over twenty-five years served top quality, slow smoked meats, and sides. They appreciate their customers, and make sure everyone leaves full and happy. They take the quality of their food seriously, located in the heart of Calimesa, you can pop off the freeway coming or going and enjoy a really delicious meal. They also cater, or you can rent a room for a business meeting or come with friends just to catch up over a good lunch.

Owner Juan has been recognized by the senate for his contributions to the community. Everyone who works here loves their jobs and you can feel it in the atmosphere. Juan hires people he can trust with his business, and it all seemed to work out quite nicely. Manager Teresa made my experience extra special. She has been at Kafe Royal for 3 years. She came from Sun lakes where she worked in their restaurant for 19 years, and then as a young gal she worked at Carrows. Teresa and owner Juan had that in common, he worked at CoCo’s, pretty much the reason why he hired her, and the rest is history. She is a people person and describes her employment at Kafe Royale as her happy place. Teresa says that all the food is made to order, everything is fresh, and everyone works as a team to provide the customers with the best experience possible. Teresa sees this area as what it used to be, a small town, and with the new development a lot has changed. She loves her job and enjoys working with her fellow staff as well as the amazing customers that Kafe Royale has after many years of operating.

They have seasonal specials, which I did not try, but they do a pumpkin pancake special starting at the end of September that sounded very delicious.

I would say when you’re on the 10 Freeway going East or West it’s a nice way to take a break and have some breakfast, or lunch, and be able to enjoy this delicious and very affordable food. It’s got a hometown feel, and the moment you walk in the door you will feel like family, I know I did!

Kafe Royale

1007 Calimesa Blvd. K

Calimesa, CA 92320

(909) 795-7065

https://www.kaferoyale.com/

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MJ The Musical – Dec. 21, 2023 – Broadway in Hollywood -The Pantages Theater – Hollywood, CA.

This show will really make you see what a great talent Michael Jackson was and how he changed the shape of music that we listen to now. There are so many artists that have been influenced by him, his voice, his talent, and his amazing movement. There will never be another Michael Jackson.

Actor, Roman Banks, transcends his role, just becoming Michael Jackson. His singing and his dancing are so spot on, you really think he is Michael Jackson. It’s very hard for me to say, but he became better than the man, the legend. The show is so overwhelming, covering Michael Jackson’s abusive father, Joseph and his very loving mother Catherine. There are three MJ’s through the show, all depicting the very different time frame of Michael’s career. First, his young career with his brothers, known as the Jackson Five. Young Michael, played by Josiah Benson, was terrific, his very sweet high ranges knocked it out of the park. Then we get the Michael of Off The Wall MJ, Brandon Lee Harris, who did a stellar job, and then we are off to The Dangerous album and tour. All three Michaels did an amazing job, each one with their own nuances and voices. But the real star of the show was Roman Banks. He portrayed a tortured MJ, and really nailed all of the dance moves, voice and facial expressions. He was simply amazing.

Michael Jackson was one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to Los Angeles as MJ, the multi–Tony Award®-winning new musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, begins a tour of its own. Created by Tony Award®-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, and Music Supervision orchestration and arrangements by David Holcenberg.

MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. MJ is startin’ somethin’ as it is making its California premiere at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre, which is even more reason to run out and buy tickets.

They use amazing technology, with all types of graphics that are related to each era projected on the back wall. The costumes are dead on, relating to every appearance we can remember and what Michael wore that became iconic.

This was one of my all-time favorite musicals, and I have seen so many. The full run is December 20, 2023 – January 28 2024. The Cast Album is available on Sony Music Entertainment, and it is worth the purchase. Run, don’t walk to see this astounding show.

Broadway in Hollywood

The Pantages Theater

6233 Hollywood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA. 90028

323-468-1770

https://www.broadwayinhollywood.com/events/2023-24-season-shows/mj/mj-special-offer-3
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December 8, 2023 – Lunch – Sam Hut – Yucaipa, CA.

Nestled in a strip mall very close to the freeway is a spot that you would not know about unless you happened on it, or if someone took you there. It’s a must try when you’re in this area or on your way to the desert.

Here’s what I tried:

Appetizers:

Fried Dumpling, 10 pc fried dumpling served with a sweet and sour sauce. The dumplings are cooked to perfection and the stuffing is moist and tender.

Veggie Egg Roll, 4 pc of veggie egg roll served with a sweet and sour sauce. A nice, tasty eggroll jam packed with lots of vegetables.

Vietnamese Noodle Soup-Pho:

Shrimp Noodle Soup, with rice noodle with shrimp in a broth topped with white onion, cilantro, and green onion. Served with a side of bean sprouts, basil, jalapeño, and lime. The flavor of the soup is worth the price of admission, as they say. It’s got a nice exotic herb flavor and the shrimps are big and fresh. A must have menu item.

Rice:

Combination Fried Rice, with beef, chicken, shrimp, cabbage, onions, and carrots. It is a very flavorful rice; they really pile their dishes very high!

Steamed Rice Dishes:

Orange Chicken served with steamed white rice. The chicken is crispy, and the inside is moist and tender. There is a lovely orange sauce that is poured generously over the chicken, another amazing menu item.

Beef Spicy Basil with vegetable and steamed white rice. Their beef is very thinly sliced and is very tender. The sauce and the vegetables make this dish very appealing; I would order this every time.

Coming from Cambodia, the owner is young, and hopes that his remarkable cuisine will become very popular in this area. He has been in business for 1 year and 2 months. He just told me to use the business name, and let the business speak for itself. If the food is any indication, then Sam Hut is all you really need to know.  The décor is very simple and clean, here it’s all about the food! And did I mention the prices? They too will knock your socks off. Sam Hut is extremely affordable, and you get a lot of bang for your buck. My advice, get into Sam Hut and taste their wonderful bounty!!

“Eat. Boba. Relax. Treat Yourself.

Sam Hut is the place where great cooking and fantastic vibes meet. Their food is nutritious, delicious, and affordable, and they welcome diners young and old. Try it yourself—stop by today!”

Sam Hut

34080 ½ County Line Rd.

Yucaipa, CA 92399

909-795-8834

Mon-Sat 11am-8pm Sunday Closed.

https://samhutyucaipa.wixsite.com/sam-hut
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Redlands Oyster Cult – R-O-C -Dinner – November 8, 2023 – Redlands, CA.

This is such a fun hipster restaurant in the heart of downtown Redlands. It’s off the beaten path on The Orange Alley which is adorned by umbrellas in the sky.  It is festive and the best part – the food is just spectacular.

Redlands Oyster Cult opened its door in 2019, to a bustling audience of like-minded young Redlands folks. Owner Emanuel Jacobsen, haling for Turkey, has really created quite the phenomenon. His customers know a good thing when they taste his super fresh seafood dishes. His oysters get flown in every day.

Here’s What I tried:

Cocktails:

Calypso, with tequila, pineapple, orange, and lime. A nice fun cocktail that hit all of the right notes.

Sea Hag with dark rum, cacao, pineapple, orange, and coconut. For the tropical drink lover, that would be me, this one is for you.

Part time love, vodka, Aperaol, elderflower, sparking. A nice effervescent cocktail, with some great rounded out flavors.

Cult Shooter, oyster in a half shell, vodka, and spicytomato with essence of clam. Now this is my kind of shooter, the oyster is so fresh and the small shot is just wonderful.

Oysters on a Half Shell, Aphrodite  – broccolini cheese goddess, Blue Pool – lemon burst, and Dunbar – prosciutto 
mignonette and cocktail sauce. I really have never tasted oysters so fresh and delightful.

Oyster R-O-C, grilled with spinach, shallot, cream, Parmesan Reggiano, panko and Pernod. This is an oysters Rockefeller type baked oyster dish, and it is heavenly.

Oyster Butter Bomb, grilled with miso shallot with seaweed butter atop house bread.  They’re really spectacular, the butter coats your palate and the rest is history.

R-O-C Clam Stew with clams, cream broth, potato, celery, onion, parsley, house bread. This is a clam chowder type stew at its best, one of my many favorite menu items.

Aguachile, chilled jumbo scallops, jalapeno,avocado, radish, citrus juice, and herb oil. The scallops are cut super thin and are sweet and tangy, just a terrific combination of flavors.

Shrimp Cocktail, with jumbo wild Mexican shrimp, and house cocktail sauce. These are huge shrimps; the presentation alone is enough to order these little lovelies.

Chipotle Shrimp Linguini withjumbo wild Mexican shrimp, and cherry tomato on linguine with chipotle cream sauce. The tomatoes are the best part, they pop in your mouth with a candy sweetness that you just can’t get enough of.

Hen of the Woods Mushroom with Polenta, Parmesan Reggiano, miso butter, and thyme with parmesan tuile. A nice rich hearty dish that will make you want to come back for more.

Spring Sea Bass, with asparagus, chimichurri, and tomato. This is by far the best Sea bass I have ever tried, it’s flaky and moist, just an amazing rendition of this very popular fish dish.

Steak Frites, 10 oz. New York strip steak, with compound herb butter, and shoestring fries. The steak is medium rare, I didn’t even have to ask, it just came that way, and is super tasty with the perfect grill marks.  Their fries are also very delicious.

Dessert: 

Pecan Tart with bourbon and honey whipped cream, this dessert is the perfect way to end my extremely wonderful experience.

Wine :

Chardonnay, Deux Roches, Macon Villages, France. This wine went so great with any of the seafood dishes.

Cabernet Sauvignon, Tyros, Silenus, Napa. You must pair this wine with the steak, it’s a perfect combination.

With Chef Hector Bueno at the helm, everything that came out of the kitchen was delicious.  Their oysters are farmed oysters and shipped overnight; their lettuce comes from local farmers as well. My server Jesus was very accommodating. Its focused Turkish flavors at its best.

The design is timeless, its neoclassical style reflects that era. Painted ceiling, a kind of time capsule. The vibe is very cool. The décor gives off a chill study-chique vibe, as if the consumer was in 1920s New England instead of modern-day Southern California, but a fun nightlife spot in Redlands.  At approximately 1,000 square feet, there are brick walls, gold light fixtures, marble countertops, and brown leather seats that offer a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. Redlands Oyster Cult’s horseshoe-shaped bar makes for excellent conversation over Jacobson’s inspiring liquor menu, creating a more personal feel than the average head-down, eyes-up, bar. The space used to be a dance studio.  There are 36 seats total in the restaurant.

Owner Eman Jacobson is a truth seeker. During COVID he didn’t buy into all of the closures and stayed open, he attracted like-minded people. He calls himself an anarchist meaning, no master’s, no rules – choose right over wrong and only the truth. His philosophy is that his results are tried and true, He comes from t right place. Afraid of nothing, Eman is a truth seeker.

First-time restaurant owner Emanuel Jacobson is bringing fresh seafood from around the world to the Inland Empire’s quaint little town. After working for his family business Ozell Jewelers, also on State Street, Jacobson says he wanted to create a place where he could have unique cocktails paired with stimulating food. “We are trying to capture what the whole world is doing, like a worldwide scene with what is happening with wine.” Jacobson says his menu will not be extensive but will instead be made up of six or so items that may evolve and change as the months go on. A night at the Redlands Oyster Cult is as much about a fulfilling dining experience, as it is with a fulfilling human experience.

Jacobson says he wants his restaurant to compete with the best oyster bars around the world. “If you go to an oyster bar in Japan, I want us to be at that level. If you go to South Africa or New York, I want this to be up there.”

Whatever the occasion, Redlands Oyster Cult provides a totally new take on fresh seafood, dishes that are well thought out and delightful, I highly recommend this fun experience.

Redlands Oyster Cult

16 E State St.

Redlands, CA 92373

https://redlandsoystercult.com/

Hours:

WEDNESDAY – SATURDAY 
5:00PM – 10:00PM

NO RESERVATIONS

  • Note Some Content was taken off of their website.
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November 7, 2023 – Lunch – Martha Green The Eating Room-Redlands, CA.

I just love the time that I spend in the Inland Empire – IE, so when I met Martha Green in the parking lot of Redlands favorite local market, Albertsons, I was just so happy to find out about her restaurant. She was so sweet, she was taking her groceries to her car, and I noticed how stylish she was, so we struck up a conversation. She told me that she was a chef and had to make a quick market run. She then proceeded to tell me a little bit about her business and invited me and my friend to come in for a tasting. Well, honestly, I had no idea of her well-established celebrity in Redlands. She is known as the Martha Stewart of Redlands. After going to her very popular restaurant, I got it. She has these old school cooking skills and wants everything to be just right. You can feel her goodness in every bite. From all of the wonderful baked goods, down to her spectacular dressings, it’s all in a hard day’s work from Martha Green. But that’s not all, she told me that she would be going on a very large cruise, but her daughter in-law would be taking very good care of me. So, when I called them to let me know when I would be coming in no – nonsense Kayte took it from there. Martha sent me an email saying that I would be treated like royalty in their gracious Southern hospitality style. She did not disappoint, and everything I was interested in on their menu I was able to try.

My big takeaway from this wonderful tasting, is that family is everything, and all of their staff at Martha Green’s The Eating Room are made to feel like family. All of the waitresses have known each other for a while and they’re more like gal pals than co-workers. Kayte was so sweet to me, she tells it like it is, but has a very keen sense of what works, she has been taught by the best. She tells me that when she has the opportunity to work side by side with Martha, Martha will gently tell her the way she wants things done. It obviously has worked because Martha Green has been in business for since 1996 when the bakery opened and then the opened in 2001.

The overall design is rustic, farmhouse style, with a large back room for special events, with a sign saying gathering on the wall. There are high ceilings, an original brick wall, it was a JC Penney warehouse built in the 1900’s.

Here’s What I Tried:

Dough’Lectibles, fresh baked hot out of the oven.

Bear Claw, a really great pastry, with fresh slivered almonds, words cannot describe.

Danish Pastry, blueberry filling, just luscious.

Breakfast:

Eggs Benedict – Make it a Bomb Benedict – fresh spinach and avocado and tomato. Poached Eggs atop Ham and English Muffins with a fine Hollandaise Sauce. This is a great rendition of their most popular men item, just terrific. Butter and syrup, this is a heaven sent, with the sugar and cinnamon combination. It’s a dessert and breakfast item all at the same time.

From The Griddle:

Cinnamon French Toast homemade right from their bakery, French baked toast dipped in an egg batter, served hot with

Homemade Biscuits and gravy. The gravy is country style with little bits if sausage, the most subtle flavor, and of course the biscuits and the gravy are house made.

Appetizers:

Fried Zucchini, the batter on these wonderful sticks is everything, light and flaky, just marvelous.

Soup:

Cup of Soup, and side salad. The soup was cream of broccoli, which had lots of cream and cheese, and the salad was a terrific broccoli salad with bacon, both are very worthy of all the fantastic things this establishment has to offer.

Salads:

Cranberry Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad, with mixed Greens, Candied Pecans, Green Onions, and Celery.  One of their most popular salads, and for good reason, it’s the best Chinese style chicken salad that I have had in a long time.  

Three Mound Salad Your choice of: Tuna, Chicken, Egg Salad on a Bed of Greens. This is a salad I would always order when I went to a coffee shop or a diner, it’s great protein and will fill you up without all the calories. Dressings: Martha’s Cranberry Vinaigrette, Oriental Vinaigrette, Caesar, Bleu Cheese, Ranch, Thousand Island, Nik’s Special Dressing, and Italian. All their dressings are home made.

Their Famous Sandwiches:

Classic Reuben, Corn Beef, Sauerkraut and Thousand Island Dressing on our own Marbled Rye.

They make their own bread and this one happened to be marble rye, what a wonderful sandwich.

A Few of Their Lunch Favorites:

BBQ Burger, with Fried Onion Rings, Cheddar Cheese, Bacon, and BBQ Sauce. This burger will make you so happy, I would have to order this one every time.

Asian Wrap, with Assorted Greens, Teriyaki Chicken, Curried Cream Cheese, Pineapple, Wontons, and Cashews with Honey Mustard Dressing. It’s the mustard dressing that really makes you want to order this one every time as well.

Their Famous Sides:

Frips, homemade potato chips. Crispy and delicate, just what the doctor ordered.

Onion Rings. Everyone knows my love of onion rings, and these were top notch.

Sweet Potato Waffle Fries. Another heavenly side, it would go with my sandwich, or with their marvelous ranch dressing on its own.

Drinks:

Lavender Mimosa, this drink is so special, it will make you rethink your brunch cocktail choices. I am sure this one is very addicting, but in a good way.

Regular Mimosa, with orange juice, good, but I would go the lavender route from now on.

About Martha Green, the Creator:

Learning to cook at the knees of her mother, Martha Green is often called the Inland Empire’s Martha Stewart.

She is renowned for her muss-free techniques and unique flavor profiles. You won’t catch her recommending spun sugar or 25-step recipes. While she’s not afraid of food, she is an advocate for keeping things simple and letting each ingredient shine. A Southern gal at heart, Martha moved from South Carolina to the

Redlands area in 1970. She has self-published two books, Martha Green’s Cooking Things and Martha Green’s Cooking Things 2. She has served as the food editor for the Redlands Daily Facts. And she owned and operated cooking schools and kitchen stores in Redlands, Las Vegas, and San Bernardino. She’s hosted local food-focused radio shows, regularly cooked for fundraising events, and taught cooking classes.

Martha spent time studying food in China and attended culinary schools in both Virginia and New York. Graduating from Le Cordon Bleu, she gained an appreciation for how the minor details make a big impact. Combining her French techniques with her Southern roots, Martha’s been known to infuse cooked cabbage with cream and potatoes with scallions and plain yogurt.

Instilling her son JR with a similar love for cooking and food, they joined forces in 1996. Opening Dough’Lectibles, Redland’s first scratch bakery, the mother-son pair made French delectables a favorite for many residents. Since the bakery took off, they’ve expanded their offerings with the addition of The Eating Room and Martha Green’s Rustic Tea. She’s also a longtime real estate agent, but it’s her status as a local celebrity chef that has earned her many accolades, including being named the Redlands Woman of the Year in 2005. Over the years, she has hosted dozens of fundraising events, some for the Y’s annual home tour. She grew up in Greenville, S.C. In 1974 she began teaching microwave cooking classes in the back of her husband’s mattress store in San Bernardino. In 1978 she opened a cooking equipment store in Redlands and expanded her classes to include all forms of food preparation. At the same time, she opened “UNDERPINNINGS LINGERIE SHOP.” And, because that wasn’t enough to keep her busy Martha became a Realtor in 1986. It was at that time she closed all her businesses and jumped in with all fours into real estate.

Martha opened Dough’Lectibles Bakery in 1996 and then The Eating Room in 2001– both in Downtown Redlands. In 2008 she expanded the bakery to include the cake department. “I was insane at the time I decided to open a business…..period!!!!” Martha laughs, “Don’t get me wrong, it has its wonderful sides, but boy is its hard work. It makes me very happy to feed people and see them enjoy the restaurant and bakery. Guess it’s my southern roots coming out in me.”

Acclaimed for her wit and cooking wizardry, Martha now simmers and stews before audiences at an estimated 30 fundraising cooking classes annually. For the past 27 years, she has hosted the annual Bonnes Meres auction benefiting the Children’s Fund. Martha has helped raise over 2 million dollars for local charities.

She is the author of two cookbooks Martha Green’s Cooking Things I and II. When she’s not writing or cooking Martha loves cycling and has been doing it for 6 years. She also loves to travel and adores entertaining guests.

Martha’s place for everyone to try if you are a local then you know it well. There are many that do a pitstop on their way to the desert, because they know how good it is!! And the bakery will truly blow your hair back. Their cakes are so wonderful, I was able to try some sample slices. The chocolate cake was so rich and creamy, and the orange cake was like diving into a big puffy cloud, oh my!  So good! The display case of the bakery makes you want to just eat those luscious treats 24/7, but I too have to watch it now and then. The chocolate cake I froze, so now I can imbibe at a later date.

Kayte tells me that during all the shutdowns during covid they turned their restaurant into a grocery store and did many deliveries to local people. She tells me that they have so much passion for customers and treat them like family. Typical lunch they serve 300-500 meals, and most popular time is weekend breakfasts.  Kayle had a real deep-seated love for Martha and considers Martha her mom.

My wonderful server Chelsa Johnson is a San Bernardino native; she is part of this gal pal employee club here that is just so fun. You can feel how close all the staff is. Customers adore them as well, they give them presents, once a necklace and earrings, and another they got very large tips from Trible locals to the tune of $2,000.

I just had to meet Mr. Morris; you can tell he just holds this place down. Mr. Morris has been in Redlands for 22 years, working at San Manuel Casino, now Yamava. He prides himself on doing a good job and takes care of his beloved wife. He is a great addition to the staff.

Whatever your pleasure is Martha Green The Eating Room is where you can find delicious fare and genuine hearts to go with it. It’s truly a feast for your eyes and your soul.

Martha Green The Eating Room

107 E Citrus Ave.

Redlands, CA 92373

(909) 792-5400

Restaurant Hours

Monday – Friday 7:00am-2:30pm

Saturday & Sunday 8:00am – 2:30 pm

Bakery Hours

Monday -Friday 7:00 am -6:00pm

Saturday 8:00am- 4pm 

Sunday 8:00am-3:00pm

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