Jodi Jackson’s Hollywood

This show really delivers, the cast, the music, the sets, the technology, it has great, big excitement in every turn. What I really like about Back To The Future The Musical was the way they turned a story about a time-machine, that is a DeLorean. The same car in the film into a full-blown musical. You witness their amazing technology and the ways they incorporated the historic film into this staged creation. Sitting in your seat, you just can’t believe how they did it, seeing a car doing its high-speed twist and turns and then in the finale, the car flies. What the heck? It’s so worth this amazing spectacle. About Back To The Future: Friday, November 1, 2024 – Lead producer Colin Ingram together with Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale, the creators of the Back to the Future film trilogy, and Broadway in Hollywood are thrilled to announce the 2022 Olivier Award-winning Best New Musical, BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical will make its Los Angeles premiere at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre for a limited four-week engagement, from November 5 – December 1, 2024. The Broadway and West End hit show is based on the Universal Pictures / Amblin Entertainment film. The production will return to Southern California at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa from December 26, 2024 – January 5, 2025.Tickets are now available for purchase in Los Angeles www.BroadwayInHollywood.com or www.Ticketmaster.com. BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical will feature Don Stephenson as Doc Brown and Caden Brauch as Marty McFly. Additional principal company members include Burke Swanson as George McFly, Zan Berube as Lorraine Baines, Cartreze Tucker in the dual role of Goldie Wilson / Marvin Berry, Ethan Rogers as Biff Tannen, Kiara Lee as Jennifer Parker, and Luke Antony Neville in various roles including Principal Strickland, Mayor Red Thomas, and more. Rounding out the company are Joshua Blackswan Abbott, Emily Applebaum, Tade Biesinger, Ina Black, Brittany Bohn, Luther Brooks IV, Alyssa Carol, Jenny Dalrymple, Lucas Hallauer, Laura Sky Herman, Dan Horn, Will Jewett, Dwayne P. Mitchell, Zoe Brooke Reed, Fisher Lane Stewart, and Ross Thompson. Following celebrated productions in London’s West End and on Broadway, BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical opened its tour at Playhouse Square in Cleveland, Ohio, in June 2024 and continues to destinations across North America. The tour launched less than 12 months after the show’s Broadway opening on August 3, 2023, at the Winter Garden Theatre. The critically acclaimed West End production of BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical officially opened in London on September 13, 2021, has been seen by more than 800,000 people to date, and broken multiple Adelphi Theatre box office records. The production won the Best New Musical Olivier Award as well as multiple WhatsOnStage Awards and a Broadway World Award for Best New Musical.  BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical had its world premiere at the Manchester Opera House on March 11, 2020. Marty McFly is a rock ‘n’ roll teenager who is accidentally transported back to 1955 in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his friend, Dr. Emmett Brown. But before he can return to 1985, Marty must make sure his high school-aged parents fall in love in order to save his own existence. Based on the Universal Pictures/Amblin Entertainment film, BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical has a book by Bob Gale, new music and lyrics by Emmy and Grammy Award-winning Alan Silvestri and six-time Grammy Award-winning Glen Ballard, with additional songs from the film including “The Power of Love” and “Johnny B. Goode.” Bob Gale is the co-creator and co-writer of the Back to the Future film trilogy, and Alan Silvestri composed the iconic film score for the series. BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical is directed by Tony Award® winner John Rando and features a multi-Tony and Olivier Award-winning design team that includes Tim Hatley (set and costume design), Tim Lutkin and Hugh Vanstone (lighting), Gareth Owen (sound) and Finn Ross (video), with choreography by Chris Bailey, musical supervision and arrangements by Nick Finlow, illusions by Chris Fisher, orchestrations by Ethan Popp and Bryan Crook, dance arrangements by David Chase, and casting by Tara Rubin. Bespoke Theatricals serves as General Manager.   Bob Gale said, “To paraphrase Marty McFly, you guys are ready for this, and your kids are gonna love it too! If Bob Zemeckis and I time traveled back to 1980 and told our younger selves that the script they were struggling to write would become a Broadway musical 43 years later, they’d kick us out of their office and call us crazy. Well, sometimes, crazy ideas give birth to great entertainment, and now Bob and I are eager to share our musical vision with New York audiences. The London production exceeded our original expectations on every level, and we’re certain the Broadway version, along with the fantastic songs by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard, will be even better. Regardless of whether you’ve seen the original film, BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical, with its outstanding performances and incredible stagecraft, will delight and enthrall you, your kids, your parents, and everyone you know!” Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard said, “It all began for us with the story and characters that made Back To The Future a much beloved cinematic classic. The magic of musical theater presented us with the possibility of adding new dimension and depth to our familiar Hill Valley residents. Through song and dance, their innermost thoughts, hopes, and dreams are now revealed. It’s a story first told in 1985 that traveled back to 1955 and will now be told in 2023 in New York City and, starting in 2024, across North America. We are thrilled and excited to invite you to join us on this epic journey through time.” Lead Producer Colin Ingram said, “Following London and Broadway, we are delighted to take BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical on the road. We look forward to entertaining and thrilling audiences, who have cherished this story for decades, with the moving and spectacular musical version.” The Original Cast Recording of BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical is available now from Sony Masterworks Broadway in all formats, including vinyl. (https://soundtracks.lnk.to/BTTFAlbum) A deluxe 2-disc edition of the Original Cast Recording featuring never-heard-before demos of the songs from the musical was be released by Sony Masterworks Broadway. A 240-page hardcover book, Creating Back to the Future The Musical by Michael Klastorin, the official behind-the-scenes companion to the stage musical adaptation of Back to the Future, published by Abrams Books, is available at abramsbooks.com. Back to the Future the film was released in 1985, starring Michael J. Fox as “Marty McFly” and Christopher Lloyd as “Dr. Emmett Brown.” The film grossed $360.6 million at the box office worldwide, and the total box office for all three films in the Back to the Future franchise was $936.6 million (over $1.8 billion in today’s money).   Follow BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical at @bttfbway on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. For more information visit www.BackToTheFutureMusical.com. LOS ANGELES PREMIERE ENGAGEMENT ∙ 4 WEEKS ONLY  HOLLYWOOD PANTAGES THEATRE ∙ NOV 5 – DEC 1, 2024   “DAMN FUN! IT SENDS THE CROWD OUT ON A MASSIVE HIGH.” The Hollywood Reporter   “BRINGS ALL THE MAGIC FROM THE SCREEN TO THE STAGE!” Entertainment Weekly * Note Some Content Was Taken Off Of Their Website.

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When I went to Taste of Conejo, I met John Damas, one of the partners at Crawford’s Social, and he invited me to come do a tasting. But what I didn’t know was how incredible the food is at Crawford’s Social, everything I tried was just off the charts amazing!

When you first walk in you can see this huge rustic dining room, with a wonderfully engaging bar area as well as a wraparound patio. There are lite up trees, and the whole ambiance is very inviting. The interior is sleek but comforting; you just get a cool vibe that is enhanced by all of their great menu items.

Here’s What I Tried:

Cocktails:

Traditional Martini, with blue cheese olives, done right it makes me so happy; I had a big smile on my face.

Fig Easy, with gin, fig, lime and ginger, this was a delicious cocktail, with the sweetness of the fig, the gin disappears into this drink.

Share & Socialize:

Rustic Bread with whipped butter and Maldon Sea salt. This bread is served warm and slathered in the butter; it is one for the record books.

Sweet & Spicy Shrimp, with spicy-honey aioli, frisee, and candied walnuts. This was a surprise as well, an item I did not see online, but I would order this dish every time. The spice is subtle, and the shrimps are fried, but the frisee and the candied walnuts add the right amount of crispiness and punch.

Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, with lump crab and lemon-remoulade. They give you 3 very large cakes; you can see and taste how fresh the crab is, and the remoulade will make your taste buds dance.

Crispy Lobster Tails, with aji chili aioli. This was a complete surprise; in doing my research, I never saw this on the menu online. So, when I saw another happy customer trying this, I asked, and it was delivered. I would order this every time; it was just such a treat!

Chilled:

Hamachi Crudo with jalapeño and fried caper. The yellowtail fish is succulent and fresh, the fried capers add an extra layer, so perfect.

Pasta Bolognese with pork & beef ragout and pappardelle pasta. The noodles are wide and thick, and the sauce has everything you would want in a slow cooked sauce. It’s the kind of sauce a Nonna would make!

Jumbo Diver Scallops with brown butter vinaigrette and
shaved asparagus. These scallops are huge and perfectly cooked, brown on the outside and warm and inviting on the inside. The brown butter and shaved asparagus are just the best addition. All I can say is, Oh my goodness.

Seared Chilean Sea Bass with corn and scallion vinaigrette.  Crawfords Social can do no wrong!  This menu item is rich and flavorful; the fish is delicate and buttery; truly amazing flavors with wonderful nuances.

8 oz. Filet Mignon, you do not need a knife with this filet, and they serve 3 sauces: Bordelaise, Maître d’ butter and Chimichurri. This dish should be celebrated; next time I would come and save a lot of room with a great glass of Cabernet, all I need.

Sides:

Whipped Potatoes, they come in a mini pot with a lid; they are simple and delicious.

Sautéed Baby Spinach, a perfect accompaniment with my steak.

Roasted Cauliflower, it’s a huge portion, with a delicate cheese sauce, just what the doctor ordered!

Wines:

Sandhi, Chardonnay, Central Coast, 2021. So many choices with all of the seafood options but pairing this with the lobster was my favorite.

Y3 Taureau, Bordeaux Blend, Napa Valley 2021. Of course, you would drink this complex fruit forward wine with the steak, it’s just the perfect combo. But is also paired nicely with the pasta Bolognese. They have a very extensive wine list, so have at it!

My lovely server, Aubry Ryan was beautiful inside and out; she gave me much information and added to my delightful experience. She knows this area well, being from Newbury Park. Her story is bittersweet; she was one of the survivors at the Borderline mass shooting back in 2018 and has done some hard work on herself to heal. It goes a step further – she went to high school with the shooter, but she recalls the friends that she lost on that horrible day. Meeting her and talking to her, you would never know she went through such a tragedy; she was graceful and stoic, and Aubry was one of my highlights of the night. I was so taken by the food that I really didn’t get to ask my normal questions, but I do know that Crawfords Social opened late last year and has been picking up speed since it inception. I will definitely help spread the word. Their very lucky customers are locals of all ages, people celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, business meetings; you really do not need a special occasion to try this glorious fare.

About Crawford’s Social: The partnership originally conceived of the concept with the notion that Westlake Village has so many great spots for dinner but was lacking in a full-service bar/lounge offering where customers could enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner all while enjoying world class cocktails and socializing in an upscale yet casually refined environment.  With that in mind, they really wanted to embrace the Westlake/Southern California lifestyle with indoor/outdoor seating, fire pits, and comfortable lounge furniture.  Their culinary and operations team members were formerly with the Gibsons Restaurant Group in Chicago and C’s beverage director came from London where he ran the award-winning Satan’s Whiskers bar. Chef Scott Jambrosek really delivers great inventive fare with an eye for delicious, scrumptious food.  From what I could tell, Beverage Director – Ruairi Gilles has hit all of the right notes.  

The whole restaurant seats approximately 400 guests, with 65 percent of it being the patio seating. The space is 16,000 square feet, with plenty of room for all sizes of parties and private event groups. The music is wonderful, ranging from Steely Dan to Roxy music, and everything in between. The interiors have a rustic modern feel, with black and white ratan chairs and mini alcove type seating called the Sinatra booths; there are four of them throughout the restaurant, which adds a sort of private experience. Andrew Althaus (principal) 360 Architecture in Westlake Village did the architectural. Eddy Bitton (principal) from Bitton Interior Designs in Malibu made all of their design esthetics so beautiful. They have the same LED lite trees as they do at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. They really pay close attention to detail; there is a collection of first edition vintage cocktail books in the hallway near the restrooms. You can see on a beautiful fall or spring evening taking in what the patio has to offer. During balmy summer nights it could be nice, or the inside dining room is fully airconditioned. Cold winter nights, the inside dining room is also very inviting. They have a nice brunch menu, and their Happy Hour allows you to try some of their yummy signature menu items at a really great discounted price. No matter where you chose to dine there, Crawfords Social’s star of their show is their food.

There have been many celebrity sightings; Britney Spears, Jamie Foxx, Hailee Steinfeld, Josh Allen, and the Los Angeles Rams team, many singers and comedians. This whole area is the new playground for the rich and famous, so it makes perfect sense.

Crawford’s Social is a great way to spend the evening; if it’s a destination meal or you’re coming back from wine country, whatever the occasion, you should really try it.

Crawford’s Social

974 South Westlake Blvd.

Westlake Village, CA. 91361

805-510-0105

[email protected]

Hours

Mon – Thurs

11:00 am – 11:00 pm

Friday

11:00 am – 12:00 am

Saturday

10:00 am – 12:00 am

​Sunday

10:00 am – 10:00 pm

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I had come in before as a civilian to try it a so that is what I call being a regular customer, not a food reviewer, and it was amazing. So, when I got the opportunity to be a reviewer, I jumped at the chance. Anyone you ask about what’s the best local Thai food; this is always the place people say is the best.

Their customers are all kinds of people, large families, ladies’ lunches, just about every type. The interior is simple but super clean, with a flat screen TV, showing great photos of yummy menu items, very enticing.

Here’s What I tried:

Crab Fried Rice, Thai style fried rice with crab meat, eggs, onions, scallion, and tomatoes. A delicious version of this Thai staple. I just loved this rice.

Chicken Satay, with four sticks, with grilled marinated chicken on a stick served with peanut and cucumber sauce. The chicken has the most amazing flavor and is super moist and tender.

Tom Kha Soup, coconut soup with mushroom, baby corn, onion, lime leaves, galangal, and lime juice. This is not a big, heavy soup; it is a nice, light broth that just hits the spot.

 Papaya Salad, green shredded papaya, dry shrimp, carrot, tomato, and ground peanut with lime juice dressing. This is one of my favorite Thai salads; this one was more on the sweet side, which was very refreshing.

Drunken Noodles, with chicken, onions, red peppers, and basil. A great noodle dish; I would order this again for sure.

BBQ Beef, with marinated beef grilled with garlic & pepper served with crushed chili and lime juice. If you’re a beef lover, then this dish is for you.

Yellow Curry, a mild curry containing rich flavors of curry powder, coconut milk, potatoes, onions, and carrots. This curry is sweet and savory, and the shrimps are large, with a nice flavor.

Scallops and Green Beans, with a great brown sweet sauce, these are small scallops with lovely nuances.

Thia Chili was established in 2007 and is family owned with grandma’s great recipes.  General manager Alice treated me like a queen; she really took great care of me. Well, the reviews do not lie, Thai Chili is a delicious, wonderful Thai restaurant in this area, I would gladly come back as often as possible. This is a short and sweet review, because it is just that good!!

Thai Chili Restaurant

1007 Calimesa Blvd., Suite #A-B.

 Calimesa, CA 92320

(909) 795-1288.

MON – FRI 11:00AM – 8:00PM. SAT – SUN 12:00PM – 8:00PM. DINE IN CLOSES AT 7:45 PM.

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thaichilicalimesa.com

I just love this area; it’s a bedroom community that is far enough away from the city that you do feel like you could be anywhere in America. Many people in the entertainment industry choose to live out here because it’s away from all of the bright lightsa nd big city vibes, but just a 45-minute drive on the 101 South. So, you feel like you’re out in the country but close enough to LA to be part of all of the action. What Conejo offers in the culinary world is new and exciting food that is innovative, lively, and contemporary. So many of these restaurants that had their amazing treats have asked me to come in and do tastings in their individual. restaurants.

The 2024 Taste of Conejo featured food and drinks from over 50 restaurants, breweries, and wineries in the Conejo Valley. Some of the restaurants and wineries participating in the event include: Baxter Ridge Vineyards, Boisset Collection Wines, California Fish Grill, Crawford’s Social, Dusty Nabor Wines, El Sancho Loco Cantina, Fork and Thyme Catering, Giessinger Winery and Cidery, Grabbagreen, Harvest Kitchen & Bar, Heaven’s Hill Estate Vineyard, Kaufman Wine, Lion’s Peak Winery and Tasting Room, M on High Restaurant, Made In Italy, Magnavino Cellars, Mizel Estate Wines, Mouthful Eatery, Nectar of the Dogs Wines, Newberry Candy, Opolo Wines, Pinstripes, Fogo De Chao, Smokin Steve’s BBQ Catering, Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream, Sunland Vintage Winery, Tarantula Hill Brewing Company, and Ubatuba Acai. Café Ficelle, Fogo De Chao, Marcello, Neighborly, Rori’s, Selvin’s, Slice House, Denino’s Pizzeria and Café, Leone’s Italian Ice, Modern Kitchen, and Sunrose California Eatery.

“We’re excited for the community to experience the vibrant food and beverage scene in the Conejo Valley at this all-inclusive tasting event,” said Danielle Borja, president/CEO of the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Experience an evening of exceptional food, wine, beer, and spirit tastings from more than 50 of the Conejo Valley’s most exciting and innovative food and beverage establishments in one luxurious setting with live entertainment, custom wine glass engraving, and interactive displays throughout the evening.

A real chance to see and taste what this region is all about. With so many lovely vendors, it really showed me that there are culinary happenings in Los Angeles, as well as outer lying areas that are really terrifically inspired and everyone can be a part of. I will be coming every year!

Join local food and wine enthusiasts at the 13th Annual Taste of Conejo at the Hyatt Regency Westlake with exceptional tastings from more than 50 of the Conejo Valley’s local food and beverage establishments in one luxurious setting. 

Event 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM VIP: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM General: 6:00 PM – 8:00 P

Hyatt Regency Westlake

880 S Westlake Blvd, Westlake Village

Grand Plaza Ballroom

https://tasteofconejo.com/

*Note Some Content Was Taken Off of Their Website.

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Kimberly Akimbo is a wonderful uplifting story, with great sets and wonderful songs; it is guaranteed to make you want to come back for more.

Kimberly Akimbo, the winner of five 2023 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and the most critically acclaimed musical of its season, made its Los Angeles premiere at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre for a limited three-week engagement, from October 15 – November 3, 2024. The production will return to Southern California at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa from January 21 – February 2, 2025.

Three-time Tony Award nominee Carolee Carmello stars as Kimberly in this national touring production. Joining Carolee on stage will be Miguel Gil (Original Broadway Company of KIMBERLY AKIMBO), Jim Hogan (Original Broadway Company of KIMBERLY AKIMBO), Emily Koch (Wicked, Waitress), Dana Steingold (Beetlejuice, The 25th Annual Putnum County Spelling Bee), Grace Capeless (Disney’s The Lion King), Skye Alyssa Friedman (Original Broadway Company of KIMBERLY AKIMBO), Darron Hayes (Original Broadway Company of KIMBERLY AKIMBO) and Pierce Wheeler (Dear Evan Hansen National Tour). Sarah Lynn Marion, Regene Seven Odon, Marcus Phillips, Bailey Ryon, and Brandon Springman are the the understudies, and Valerie Wright is the Kimberly standby.

Kimberly is about to turn 16 and recently moved with her family to a new town in suburban New Jersey. In this “howlingly funny heartbreaker of a show” (The New Yorker), Kim is forced to navigate family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush…and possible felony charges. Ever the optimist, she is determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure.

Named Best Musical by the Tony Awards, New York Drama Critics Circle, The Drama Desk Awards, The Lucille Lortel Awards, and The Outer Critics Circle Awards, KIMBERLY AKIMBO is also the winner of 4 additional Tony Awards: Best Score (David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori), Best Book (David Lindsay-Abaire), Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical and Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical, with her win for KIMBERLY AKIMBO, Jeanine Tesori made history as the first female composer to win two Tony Awards for Best Score.

KIMBERLY AKIMBO features scenic design by Tony Award winner David Zinn, costume design by Sarah Laux, lighting design by Jeanette Oi-Suk Yew, sound design by Tony Award winner Kai Harada, projection design by Lucy MacKinnon, and wig, hair, and make-up design by J. Jared Janas. The production’s music supervisor is Chris Fenwick, and the music director is Leigh Delano. KIMBERLY AKIMBO features orchestrations by Tony Award nominee John Clancy, with additional orchestrations by Macy Schmidt. The production supervisor is Arabella Powell, the production stage manager is Shawn Pennington and casting is by The Telsey Office, Craig Burns, CSA.

The National Tour of KIMBERLY AKIMBO is produced by David Stone, The Atlantic Theater Company, James L. Nederlander, LaChanze, John Gore, Patrick Catullo, and Aaron Glick.

KIMBERLY AKIMBO opened on Broadway to unanimous rave reviews on November 10, 2022, following its world premiere at the Atlantic Theater Company in November 2021. Upon closing on Broadway, KIMBERLY AKIMBO played 32 previews and 612 performances on Broadway.

Another must-see from Broadway in Hollywood show, get your tickets now!

For more information, please visit www.KimberlyAkimboTheMusical.com.Please follow @akimbomusical on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), YouTube, and TikTok.

The Hollywood Pantages Theater

6233 Hollywood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA. 90028

*Note Some Content Was Taken Off Of Their Website.

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When I did my hotel stay at Hotel Erwin this past month, my contact Todd Metzner told me that the owners of both Hotel Erwin and Belle’s Beach House were great friends, so I asked if I could do a tasting there, and he set it up. Well, I am here to tell you that the food is really off the charts. Just incredible in every way possible.

You really feel like you could be anywhere in the South Pacific, with its wonderful tropical interiors. Seeing that you are a half of block from the Venice Beach, it is so perfect. There are tiki touches; and surfboards as well as Hawaiian posters; it’s all very lively and comforting at the same time.

Here’s What I Tried:

Cocktail:

High Tide, vodka, lime, blueberry, Salers, shiso, and coconut. This was so thirst-quenching, truly remarkable. I also loved the little shreds of coconut on the top of this brilliant cocktail.

Starters:

Crispy Rock Shrimp, spicy aioli, chives, and scallions. The sauce is what this dish is all about; for sure, a must have.

Spicy Cucumbers, garlic dressing, chili oil, shiso, and sesame. These are refreshing in a spicy way, and the micro shiso puts this dish over the top.

Salad:

The Tiki Chop, iceberg, nori chips, wasabi peas, tomato, shiitake bacon, mint, and sesame ranch. This is just the best salad ever, the additions of the shitake bacon and the nori chips is just everything you would want added to any salad; it’s just that terrific.

Noodles:

Garlic Butter Noodle, chili crunch, garlic butter, scallions, shiitake mushrooms, and kalbi short rib. I would eat anything with kalbi short ribs, but these noodles add an extra mellowness that you would never get at a traditional Korean restaurant. So amazing!!

Sushi & Sashimi:

Shrimp Tempura, cucumber, yuzu kosho, asparagus, avocado, and baby shiso. A delicate sushi, and the asparagus rounds out all of the flavor profiles.

Yellowtail Sashimi, ponzu, serrano, and shiso. This fish was super fresh and flavorful, a real winner.

Sides:

Miso Eggplant, with den miso, and chive. Another delicious menu item; you really cannot go wrong with anything here.

Check on their website for all of their happenings each month; there are some very fun things going on at Belle’s Beach House.

Belles Beach House, owned by seasoned restauranteur Nick Mathers and Wish You Were Here Group, aims to transport guests from Los Angeles to a tropical destination whilst staying in the heart of Venice Beach. The venue boasts an impressive outdoor covered patio bar, indoor restaurant, as well as an additional alfresco dining area. The menu features Hawaiian-inspired bites with Japanese influence, vibrant craft Tiki cocktails, and a thoughtful wine list.

Wish You Were Here Group is focused on hospitality and creating unforgettable dining experiences inspired by travel. The group’s multi-concept portfolio is responsible for some of the most beloved restaurants, cafes and bars across the country which aim to transport guests to other parts of the world. Each property has its own unique vibe influenced by different cultures and cuisines, while delivering delicious food and cocktails alongside exceptional service in thoughtfully designed spaces.

Wish You Were Here Group’s restaurants, bars and lounges are currently in destinations including Los Angeles, Las Vegas and New York City with many more to come.

Belles Beach House is worth the drive from anywhere in Los Angeles, or beyond. Next time you’re in the mood for Asian style fusion, and sushi, and a wonderful beachy vibe try it, like me you will be so happy you did. It’s just the best retro tiki spot in Socal!

Belles Beach House

24 Windward Ave.

Venice, CA. 90291

(424) 722-8476

https://www.bellesbeachhouse.com/

Note: Some Content Was Taken Off Of Their Website.

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Karla Roque, general manager of Le Parc, is just a lovely lady who made all of my dreams come true. I do book many friends, family, business associates there, so this stay was two blocks from me and just a great little respite from my crazy life.

My room had a balcony, a very comfortable bed, a separate bedroom from the living room. A great bathroom and dressing area. You really feel like you could be anywhere when you’re at Le Parc; it’s very quiet and its very cozy. Not like a typical hotel room, it’s a very large suite and all of the rooms are suites.  Curl up by your private fireplace, sip cocktails on your balcony, and indulge in a movie on your flat-screen TV. You have entered a world of ultimate comfort, where your every need is overseen by Le Parc’s enthusiastic and expert staff. Complete with a step-up sleeping area and a fully equipped kitchenette with Keurig coffee makers.

Set on a tree-lined residential street, this relaxed, all-suite hotel is 2 miles from The Grove outdoor mall and 3 miles from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Plush, studio-style suites feature free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, plus balconies, minibars, and separate living areas with fireplaces and pull-out sofas. The 1-bedroom suites add kitchenettes. Room service is available. Amenities include free local shuttle service and a fitness center. The intimate hotel bistro and lounge features a seasonal menu served indoors or on the sundeck beside the heated pool and cabanas. There’s also a lighted rooftop tennis court. A day at La Parc is the chill Hollywood experience you’ve been craving!

Here’s what I tried:

Cocktail:

Traditional Martin with Three Olives, it’s a very large martini glass, but the shaken not stirred is the way to go; it’s icy cold and lasted throughout my dinner, so good.

Entrees:

Fettucine Alfredo with Shrimp is a must have menu item; its succulent and so delicious, I would do this dish every time.

Filet Mignon with mashed potatoes and vegetables; it’s a very large filet, cooked medium rare but more on the rare side; with great flavor, and the accompaniments were also terrific.

Dessert:

Carrot Cake, served with French vanilla ice cream, is a huge slice of cake with amazing frosting.

The pool area is wonderful; there is full food and beverage service, with a pretty happening happy hour and social hour event. The social hour has free wine; who wouldn’t want that? The pool is small but heated nicely, and the view is just spectacular. It’s the perfect spot for a bridal shower, ladies’ day, family fun day, guys day out, anything that requires drinks and relaxation. You can also enjoy rooftop pickleball, tennis, a rooftop pool, spacious suites, chic accommodations, and personalized service. Some of the best views of Los Angeles from the Skydeck. Sit back and relax in a lounge chair and sip cocktails poolside. For groups and gatherings, book a private cabana, which includes plush sofa seating and extra amenities.

A real staycation is just a phone call away, so what the heck are you waiting for?

Le Parc Hotel

733 N West Knoll Dr.

West Hollywood, California 90069

www.leparcsuites.com

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I already knew that Jakes is an amazing sports bar, and the Dodgers were playing their do-or-die game to get them closer to the World Series. So, I called Jake and asked if I could come back and try new menu items as well as some dishes I never tried back in May, when I did my first tasting. Well, the Dodgers won and have now moved on, but what was so great is that Jake turned all the screens on with the game, and the customers were all in blue, doing all of the Dodger chants. It was so much fun!

This trip Jake’s Italian Bistro & Brew was all decked out with Halloween décor, but it still has the same charm that it had on my last visit. Jake’s mom, Janie Dakan, redecorated the interior 2 years ago; she really spruced everything up. The bar has some great sports heroes adorning the walls, as well as many classic rock posters. It goes along with the great music they play while dining. They also have live music on most Saturdays.

Jake’s Italian Bistro & Brew is just one of Yucaipa’s best sports bars; everyone knows everyone and you are made to feel super comfortable there. My server, Gisselle Munoz, has been at Jake’s Italian Bistro & Brew for three years; she was fun and knowledgeable. And Jake’s lovely wife Rachel is always very welcoming; it’s like you have known her your whole life; she is beautiful inside and out.

Here’s What I Tried:

Cocktails:

Traditional Vodka Martini with three olives, put into my favorite martini glass with ice chards, just perfection.

Blueberry Sour, with Stolichnaya Blueberry Vodka, sour mix, club soda, and blueberry puree, garnished with lemon. A very refreshing cocktail, a bit sweet, but it went down very easy.

Chili Mango Margarita, with 1800 Silver Tequila, triple sec, lime juice, sweet and sour mix. This has a kick to it and is very sweet, for the tequila lover, it’s a true winner.

New Appetizer Items:

Mussels, with a nice tomato cream sauce, these little darlings do not disappoint. With a rich and creamy sauce, and the mussels are super fresh.

Brussel Sprouts, crispy and crunchy with balsamic and ricotta cheese. These Brussels sprouts are just incredible, caramelized, and sweet, with the creaminess of the cheese – just stupendous.

Buffalo Cauliflower, with great buffalo dipping sauce, for the vegetarian craving chicken wings,  it is a delicious substitution.

Salads:

Caesar salad, with crispy romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, shredded parmesan and fresh Roma tomatoes. Delicious, robust, with their super light and flavorful croutons, just great.

Side Salad, with mixed greens, carrots, red onion, shredded parmesan, and tomatoes. It is a very fresh and crisp salad, with their great ranch dressing, a real winner.

Sandwiches:

French Beef Dip Sandwich, with ½ lb. grilled and seasoned steak and a deliciously thick dipping sauce. But the bread – their house French roll is just the best thing possible.

OG Pastrami Sandwich, with grilled and seasoned pastrami and melted mozzarella, served on a house French roll. Who doesn’t love pastrami, and once again, the French roll really steals the show.

Pizza:

Jakes Pizza, with grilled chicken, roasted garlic, roasted tomatoes, mozzarella and parmesan cheese, and Alfredo sauce. Filled with lots of yummy garlic, the flavors are just off the charts.

Burger:

Teriyaki Burger, ½ lb. Angus Burger, with smothered teriyaki sauce, topped with grilled pineapple, mozzarella cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onion, and pickles. A sweet, happy burger, the teriyaki sauce makes it all happen.

Wake N’ bacon, ½ lb. Angus beef, with applewood smoked bacon, fired egg, gouda cheese, and jalapeno, with house made Thousand Island dressing. This breakfast sandwich is all about the applewood smoked bacon; it just sets the flavor profile for everything around it.

Pasta:

Baked Ziti, with 3 cheese sauce, penne noodles, baked with mozzarella cheese.  The pasta is baked, so it’s got that old world Italian nuance – that I just love.

Entrées:

8oz. Flame Broiled steak, served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a side salad. The steak was cooked to perfection, with wonderful cross hatch grill marks, a truly amazing steak.

Dessert:

Chocolate Cake with Ice Cream, just the best cake ever!

This is a great neighborhood place to come, let your hair down, and relax. The ambiance is casual, but what makes Jake’s so great is how the staff makes you feel like you are at home. And the food, well, it’s just great! Part Italian, part American, but whatever you order is guaranteed to be tasty, fresh, and just fantastic.

Owner, Jake Litras, comes from a culinary family background. His father owned Two Guys Pasta and Pizza, so Jake really has a handle on what makes an eating establishment successful. From my tasting, he delivered delicious food, at great prices, in a cozy neighborhood atmosphere; what more could you want?

They have 15 flat-screen TVs, so lots of these regulars are coming in for a variety of sporting events. As well as their nightly specials, they have a burger night, a wing night, and a steak night, all highly discounted meals.

Jake’s Italian Bistro & Brew is just the best neighborhood bar and restaurant; it’s a must try when you’re in the Inland Empire.

Jake’s Italian Bistro & Brew

12170 4th St.

Yucaipa, CA 92399

909-790-8750

(Corner 4th and Yucaipa)

Monday 11:30 am to 8:30 pm

Tuesday 11:30 am to 8:30 pm

Wednesday 11:30 am to 9:30 pm

Thursday 11:30 am to 9:30 pm

Friday 11:30 am to 9:30 pm

Saturday 11:30 am to 9:30 pm

Sunday 11:30 am to 8:30 pm

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I was walking on the strand when a handsome young gentleman asked me if I wanted a sample of food from the restaurant down the small street Wangs n Thangs, but he was out of samples in his tray. His name is Seven, and he said follow me and I will get you a sample. After a long wait, he handed me a piece of BBQ chicken and a breaded shrimp, that was just incredible. So, I told him that I am a food writer, and he immediately had me speak to his cousin Atrayu’s wife, Cynthia Moore. She offered me to come back the next day to do an official tasting for my website, I was very excited.

The thing about Wangs N Thangs is that it is a beach stall, with no real dining room. So, they got creative; they have some tables and chairs on the street, which is a walk-up street, and added a large flat-screen TV, and they play some great urban music, and videos. That really adds to the overall vibe. The other thing about Wangs N Thangs is that the food is their real star of their show. It really doesn’t matter if there’s no official indoor dining room, because by the time you get your food you’re just going to dig in no matter where or how you eat it; it’s just that good!

They opened in January of this year, their first time owning a restaurant. Before this, they dabbled in other businesses but never a restaurant. Atruya is from Mississippi, so it made perfect sense to bring his memories into his food here in Venice Beach. He started by watching his dad cook and then took his dad’s recipes and experimented on his own. You will see him in the kitchen and Cynthia taking the orders in the window. I asked her if there were plans to open another Wangs N Thangs, and she said they love the beach vibe and would like to open another one in Miami. She also said she would be so happy to open one that had a proper dining room. I see a lot of growth potential for them soon.

Drinks:

Homemade Lemonade, the perfect sweet pink lemonade, they really don’t limit the sweetness.

Food:

Onion Flower Thang, a big, huge yellow onion that gets opened and fried in their special batter. Forget Outback Steakhouse; this version is the bomb, served with Thousand Island sauce.  I was just speechless!

Fried Shrimp, served with their honey garlic sauce, truly a real winner. The breading is crispy panko, and the shrimp is super fresh, it’s just the perfect fried shrimp ever.

Fried Oyster Mushrooms, they almost look like real oysters, but they are fragrant and succulent, delicious mushrooms.

6 Piece Wangs, they do a BBQ buffalo type sauce that is spicy and delicious, and the chicken is tender and so flavorful.

Fried Corn, well, I never!!!  Yes, that’s right, breaded fried corn, so unique and wonderful.

Mushroom Thang Poor Boy. It’s got tomatoes, onion, lettuce, pickles, with a great Thousand Island type sauce, and the mushroom is pure heaven.

Shrimp Thang Poor Boy, they do the same fixings as they do the mushroom thang poor boy and the sauce, and it’s really good.

Crab Legs, super spicy and they serve a great sage butter sauce with it. I just fell in love with this dish before I even got approved for my tasting, I saw their photo of this menu item, and really wanted to try this; it did not disappoint.

Because they do not have a dining room, they make do, but in the rainy season this whole area rolls up and closes, depending on the amount of rain each day, so be warned. Cynthia says they make allowances financially for those days that they have to close. She has 2 kids and 1 on the way, so her business is very important, she’s got to keep her kids fed, and her husband happy.

It goes without saying that Venice Beach is a staple in the Los Angeles community. It has cultivated LA beach culture among surfers, skaters, entertainers, and workout enthusiasts, and is a prime destination for tourists and locals alike. That’s why Wangs N Thangs is honored to bring their cuisine to the oceanside. Famous for their chicken “wangs” and chicken sandwiches, and they have an array of other “thangs” to make your taste buds happy.

They are always busy, tourists, locals, and everyone in-between. Word has gotten out about Wangs N Thangs; it’s just the perfect Cajun, southern, type of beach cuisine in Venice Beach. It is remarkable, delicious, affordable food. Next time you’re at the beach, try Wangs n Thangs; you will be so happy you did!

Wangs N Thangs

1425 Ocean Front Walk

Venice, CA 90291

https://www.wangsatvenice.com/

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I am the luckiest lady in the world. To be able to do a wonderful staycation a half hour away from my home in Los Angeles, glorious, fantastic, I feel like I was on a real vacation.

You know the cheers song, “Sometimes you wanna go, where everybody knows your name, and they’re always glad you came, you wanna be where you can see, our troubles are all the same, you wanna be where everybody knows your name.” Well, that is how I felt at Hotel Erwin – pretty much the best VIP treatment ever! But it really wasn’t too much, it was such a treat to have every staff member treat me like I was important, all of them knowing my name and saying that I am the VIP staying in room 613. Ok, and about my room. Pretty much at the west edge of the building with an ocean view and up on the highest floor besides the roof top bar High; we will get to that later. My room had a super comfy bed and a huge walk-in shower. Every amenity is covered, from the mini bar to the gorgeous view right outside my window and the incredible balcony with 2 chairs and a table. It’s very sublime, but oh, so amazing. They have a delightful breakfast, my new friend staff member Jeanne added so much extra, to my breakfast. She made me a latte, with luscious cream, and fudge sauce, plus a very spicy but good bloody Mary. The breakfast served every day is not basic. It’s got delicious homemade coffee cake, homemade yogurt and granola, fresh fruit, eggs and sauce, and every kind of toast and topping you can imagine. Plus, fresh juices and strong, perfect coffee. They also offer a water bottle and a water station area on every floor. As part of your stay, you can get beach amenities or use a beach bike cruiser, as well as be able to use their gym.

Hotel Irwin has many dining options, so for sunset I went to High Rooftop Lounge, which is their rooftop bar. They offer a nice happy hour, but I was late for that. I did manage to get a proper vodka martini and their super delicious fried calamari. This was the start of my culinary adventure. High Rooftop Lounge was voted #9 from Timeout for Best Rooftop Bar. Then on the first floor there is a lobby restaurant called Barlo Kitchen. I had their delicious, roasted cremini mushrooms with butter and chives, then on to their scrumptious linguini with clam garlic sauce. They were so generous with their clams, 25 clams cooked to perfection in their shells, a great, tasty dish. Off to their main event, 3 luscious lamb chops with garlic, and mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts. Everything was simply cooked to perfection and was thoroughly enjoyed by yours truly. The next day I had a great lunch at the High Rooftop Lounge to-go, lobster roll, super delicious.

A landmark in and of itself, Hotel Erwin is a love letter to the ever-changing spirit of Venice Beach. Located along the iconic Pacific Avenue, they distill the best parts of our culture, creativity, and community, so you can discover Venice in all its forms, the way it was meant to be experienced. With rooms and suites featuring balconies and sweeping ocean views, three on-property restaurants—including LA’s best oceanside rooftop bar—and all the usual hotel frills, Hotel Erwin is the perfect choice for those looking to experience the vibrant energy of Venice Beach. Their rooms and suites are designed to offer a relaxed, yet elevated environment with everything you need to explore at your own pace. Each room features a private balcony, offering stunning ocean views that make for a perfect morning coffee or evening sunset. Inside, you’ll find spacious interiors with contemporary décor, plush bedding, and all the amenities needed for a relaxing stay. Whether you choose a cozy room or an expansive suite, meet each day with beachside views and immerse yourself in the laidback luxury of our coastal hotel, where the only thing they overlook is the ocean.

I was gone for a total of 24 hours, but it felt like a week. I came back super refreshed and relaxed, just the perfect staycation. Next time you’re in need of the perfect getaway book into Hotel Erwin and check out this beach staple. Maybe you too will see new things on Venice Beach, that you never saw before.

Hotel Erwin is a – Pacific State of Mind.

Hotel Erwin
1697 Pacific Ave, Venice, CA 90291

(310) 452-1111

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