Citybuzz – A Vidicom and Christy Ferer Guide to Travel

  • Archive
  • Distribution
  • About
    • Advertise
    • Press
  • Contact
    • Editorial
    • Advertising

  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  

Los Angeles

Eat/Drink

Skip to content
  • Eat/Drink
    • Eat/Drink
    • Shop
    • Entertain
    • Stay

Read More
+
The Bazaar

The Bazaar also features vitrines curated by Murray Moss of Manhattan's (and West Hollywood's) hyper-design shop Moss, and if you see something you've just got to have -- a fabulously expensive Nymphemburg porcelain tchotchke, a gilded piglet piggy bank, a vintage model powerboat, a fetching pair of gentleman's shoes or, my favorite, a set of finger puppets depicting five or six notables (including Maharishi Mahesh Yogi) -- why, by all means break out that platinum credit card. The rest of us will just goggle.

The Bazaar has some of the same theatricality, but it's more accessible. And more fun. I don't think I've ever been to a serious restaurant (serious in the sense that each dish is a revelation) that was as engaging and playful. Yet each dish has a kind of laser precision, especially the more contemporary ones from the Blanca side of the menu.

Read More
+
The Grill

On January 31, 1984, The Grill on the Alley, located steps from Rodeo Drive in the heart of Beverly Hills, opened its doors and became an instant hit. Its continued success has earned The Grill an international reputation for quality and consistency. The three founders developed a concept that still draws fans worldwide. The Grill today continues its legendary traditions in major United States cities by offering an extensive selection of superior quality classic American food served by dedicated professionals in a sophisticated, yet warm and unpretentious atmosphere.

The Grill (as it is sometimes known) was modeled after the great grills of New York and San Francisco; the founders seeking to maintain the tradition of those fine, old establishments by offering first-rate fare, attentive service, and a familiar, dignified atmosphere. The response was tremendous, as The Grill evolved into one of the Los Angeles area’s best known, “must-do” places.

The Grill’s second location was opened in May, 1998, at The Fairmont Hotel in San Jose, California, in the heart of the Silicon Valley.

The Grill on the Alley in Chicago opened on downtown Chicago’s “Magnificent Mile” in June 2000, and is just steps from Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Marshall Field’s, Water Tower Place, and

The fourth The Grill – known as The Grill on Hollywood – opened in Hollywood’s Hollywood and Highland Entertainment Complex in November 2001. This bustling center is home to the Kodak Theater which hosts The Academy Awards year after year, and attracts locals and tourists alike.

The Grill on the Alley in Dallas, Texas opened in July 2006, and is part of the Galleria Dallas, the busiest upscale shopping destination in the city. The sixth The Grill on the Alley is located at The Promenade at Westlake, a Mediterranean-styled outdoor shopping and entertainment center featuring some of the most well respected merchants in the world. And the most recent addition is The Grill on the Alley Aventura. Located in the Aventura Mall, which is ranked as the number one shopping destination among international visitors.

Read More
+
Osteria La Buca

Osteria la Buca is located on Melrose Ave, two blocks East of Paramount Studios on the outskirts of Hollywood. We celebrate the gift that is Southern California produce and grass roots Italian cooking. We have a focused list of Italian and California wines and offer a full bar specializing in boutique spirits from around the world. We represent handmade, whole beast, long braise, and farm fresh traditions. We welcome all to gather around our tables.

Read More
+
Red O

A collaborative effort between Mike Dobson and Rick Teasta of Ma'Kai Lounge and Mexican maestro chef Rick Bayless. From top dishes representative of classic Mexican flavors, Pollo en Mole Poblano – grilled chicken, mole poblano, black beans, watercress salad — to the Carne Asada Brava – green chile-marinated Creekstone Natural ribeye, roasty salsa huevona, sweet corn tamales and grilled knob onions, the food here is amazing. The atmosphere is outstanding. Elegant, and modern, not over the top but enough to make you notice. Nothing is sparred here at Red O.

Read More
+
Hard Rock LA

Hard Rock is a haven for fans of music, food, and great times. Whether you are down for a Legendary Burger, live music, a Classic Tee, a Rock Star Suite, or the latest collectible pin, there’s something for everyone. Every Hard Rock Cafe, Hotel & Casino, or Live around the world serves up authentic experiences that rock. Since its establishment in 1971, Hard Rock has also been committed to a wide variety of philanthropic causes and activities. Love All – Serve All.

Read More
+
Gladstones

LA's most popular restaurant's newest location is in the heart of Long Beach's new waterfront development, The Pike at Rainbow Harbor. It's located between the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, and the world-class Aquarium of the Pacific. Gladstone's Long Beach is right on the waterfront, with magnificent views of The Queen Mary and the rest of the harbor. It's just minutes away from CityPlace and the Camden Harbour View Apartments, as well as the upscale Hyatt, Westin and Renaissance hotels. Gladstone's Long Beach seats 425 guests in its 9,000 square feet of dining space. The restaurant is divided into several intimate areas and offers an expansive bar and outside patio. Its large menu offers the kind of food that has made Gladstone's the number one restaurant in Southern California, featuring large portions of fresh seafood, grilled steaks and chops, healthy salads, and eye-opening desserts.

Read More
+
Cleo

The menu is mostly small plates, but instead of an annoying sprawl of platters that don't fit on the table, the delicious spreads and dips are presented in small bowls. Who wouldn't swoon over the slurry of piquillo peppers with feta or the thick Lebanese yogurt with olive oil, lemon and dried oregano? They're wonderful spread on warm, freshly baked flatbread. The menu is fresh and appealing, the flavors big and rustic. I love the artichoke leaves, charred at the edges from cooking in the wood-burning oven. Cauliflower florets come perfumed with vaudovan (a French curry powder) and dotted with cashew nuts. And instead of the ubiquitous pizza, Cleo is serving Mediterranean flatbreads.

Read More
+
Syrup & So Much More: The Waffle

Unlike other modern breakfast places in Los Angeles, The Waffle serves both modern and classic breakfast and lunch food in a diner-style environment fit for a Brady Bunch family member. The Waffle pic This breakfast eatery has become famous for their endless breakfast options including specialty waffles such as their Blueberry Lemon Waffle as well as six versions of Hash Browns such as their Smoked Salmon with cream cheese, red onions and capers. For starters, The Waffle created fun and unique appetizers such as a Flight of Savory Waffles and Waffle Dip and Chips featuring spinach, artichoke and parmesan dip accompanied by homemade potato chips. The restaurant also serves signature lunch specials and vegetarian dishes. The Waffle has not only become popular for its food, but they have also become known as a “dog-friendly” eatery where dogs are welcome on the front patio. This eatery is also open late for those looking for breakfast after dinner, or drinks.

Read More
+
Pretty in Pink’s Hot Dogs

From Celine Dion to Snoop Dogg, everyone’s favorite hot dogs seem to be Pink. Though the actual color of the dog isn’t that pretty shade, Paul Pink who started his first hotdog stand in 1939 is the reason people wait in hour long lines for the delicious dogs. If you ever pass by Pink’s, you’ll probably notice the crowds hovering around the hotdog stand waiting to place an order. With famous options such as the Bacon Chili Cheese Dog or Chili Cheese Dog, anyone who’s anyone will tell you the line is worth the wait. Though original options definitely make a splash, offerings such as the Guacamole Hotdog or The Three Dog Night, featuring three hot dogs wrapped in a tortilla with bacon and cheese, are all becoming favorites to Angelinos. With great tasting hotdogs and prices to match, people from all over the world venture to Pink’s not only for the food but also for the experience. There is truly something about waiting in line and calling out an order that makes the experience rather than breaks it. Similar to the long lines, parking can be just as difficult. If you truly want a Pink’s experience, it wouldn’t be the same without the difficulty of parking and the long, long lines. All for a Pink.

Read More
+
Family Dinner at Dominick’s

Stuck in the heart of West Hollywood, Dominick's is one of the only places in Los Angeles made to feel as though you are dinning at your family's home for Sunday supper. Though a 2004 renovation took place at the restaurant, executive chefs and co-owners opted to keep the homey vibe by incorporating dark woods and booths to add levels of comfort and style. With Italian fare offering signature dishes such as a grilled artichoke appetizer and a flourless chocolate cake for dessert, patrons swear by the food, flavor and fun that Dominick’s promises to deliver. Along with the essentials such as homemade fettuccine and grilled chicken paillard, Dominick’s brings in families and friends on their favorite night of the week: Sunday. Sunday dinners at Dominick’s are one of the most popular nights for the restaurant due to the weekly change of menu, multiple course meal and $15.00 price per person. Offering favorites such as skirt steak and potatoes with a strawberry shortcake dessert, Sunday night supper at Dominick’s is meant for anyone with a true taste for Italian. Though the food alone is reason enough to visit this Italian stop, Dominick’s offers an extensive wine list for the true vino enthusiast. With a long list of bottles to choose from, many visitors often opt for a $10.00 bottle offered on Sunday nights. When the food is served and wine is poured, most people try to sneak a peek into the kitchen in hopes of finding an Italian grandmother doing all the cooking. Though you are likely to find chefs Ebbink and Boudet cooking away, we can always dream. Now that’s amore.

Read More
+
Tavern on the Scene: Laurel Tavern

laurel tavern pic 1

If you happen to be in the San Fernando Valley on a Saturday night looking for something to do, visit Laurel Tavern in Studio City where there are a fine selection of beers on tap as well as a fine selection of pretty faces everywhere.

laurel tavern pic 2

Though the Valley isn’t particularly known for their happening nightlife, Laurel Tavern is an exception to the rule. This rustic “pub” is the perfect place to grab after-work drinks with friends or kick back with a beer and bucket of fries any day of the week. Though they have an outdoor patio in front, finding a table inside seems to be all the rage, making it exceptionally hard to find a place to sit after a certain hour.

laurel tavern pic 3

The after-work crowd tends to pile in around 6pm or 7pm when the kitchen is still open and serving dishes such as Grilled Artichoke, Chorizo Sliders and Pork Belly Skewers.

The only downside to finding a table, chair and someone to share a beer with: you have to pay for everything at the bar.

Also, don’t be surprised if you run into a celebrity or two at a table in the back.

Read More
+
The White Way to Dine: Villa Blanca Restaurant

Whether you are looking to run into the Real Housewife of Beverly Hills herself or her precious Pomeranian Giggy, Lisa Vanderpump’s Villa Blanca in Beverly Hills combines Mediterranean and Italian cuisine with Asian touches and influences. This beautiful eatery located on Brighton Way is close to major Beverly Hills boutiques and shops and is the perfect place to grab lunch on the patio for some serious people watching.

villa blanca pic

The interior is described as “sexy and comfortable” by the designer herself and brings an element of comfort and coziness to the color white. With grandiose mirrors hanging on the walls as well as exotic and elegant flower arrangements everywhere, Villa Blanca offers brunch, lunch, dinner and a fancy bar area for all your drinking and dining needs.

The dinner menu consists of Crispy Rice & Spicy Tuna appetizers with entrees such as Sweet & Spicy Butterflied Shrimp, Chicken Milanese and Japanese Mushroom Chicken. Brunch at Villa Blanca means $10 specials including Villa Blanca’s Breakfast Pizza, Vegetarian Frittata and Prosciutto and Melon.

villa blanca pic 2

Whether it’s for the food, people watching or a quick glimpse of Lisa herself, a visit to the Villa will have everyone saying, Bravo.

Read More
+
Italian Fare That Will Make You Want to Say Cheese: Cecconi’s

Cecconis pic

If you feel like dining alongside Whitney Port, Jennifer Lopez, or Kristin Cavallari, Cecconi’s is an absolute must for some of the best Italian food Los Angeles has to offer.

Located in West Hollywood, Cecconi’s serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in one of many dining areas such as the main dining area, bar, terrace or Butterfly Room. The Butterfly Room is the restaurant’s private dining area that can be rented out for private events and parties and can seat up to 16 people.

The dinner menu is filled with Italian favorites such as Potato Gnocchi with Bolognese and Wild Mushroom Risotto. The menu also features charcoal grill and wood oven dishes such as Eggplant Parmigiana and Mary’s Farm Chicken Paillard.

Though the food and dining experience is elegant, the restaurant gears itself towards a younger crowd by offering a midnight menu offered Thursday through Saturday from 11pm to 1am.

Bring your appetites and your autograph books.

Read More
+
Surf’s Up at Duke’s

If you can’t make it to Maui this weekend, your next best bet is to head over to Duke’s. Located in Malibu and overlooking the ocean, Duke’s is the perfect dinner destination that brings Hawaiian flare without all the tourists. Locals from Malibu and Los Angeles can never seem to get enough of the fruity cocktails and signature fish tacos that Duke’s serves up for lunch and dinner. If you stick around for dinner to enjoy their fresh fish selections such as their lobster tail, make sure to grab a table near the window to enjoy ocean views and the sunset. Though they are known for their fish tacos and array of assorted seafood, diners rave over their macadamia nut ice cream and kimo wine as well. Duke’s also has designated nights for wine lovers and fruity cocktail aficionados. Wednesdays are dedicated to bottles of half-off wine while the Barefoot Bar assigns different nights to different drinks. If you are visiting the bu’, make sure to visit Duke’s. .

Read More
+
Newsroom Cafe: The Other Robertson Hotspot

The Ivy may get all the paparazzi on Robertson, but Newsroom Cafe is where you'll see the real LA locals and low-key celebs. Although it's based around healthy, vegetarian-friendly dishes, Newsroom Cafe serves up burgers and wine and alcohol like the best of them. With a perfect location- complete with a people-watching patio, it is packed for lunch and dinner and at night, it turns into a hot bar scene. Newsroom is known for its freshly made juices, Veggie Burger, and, of course, a large magazine rack and wifi. This is the perfect place to stop for a break from all the trendy boutique shopping.

Read More
+
Katsuya Hollywood: A Sushi Kraze

katsuya pic

The Katsuya kraze has officially taken over Hollywood.

Celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Miley Cyrus are frequent visitors along with anyone else who appreciates good quality sushi. With sushi favorites such as spicy albacore over crispy onion as well as spicy tuna over crispy rice, the Hollywood location is the perfect place to order off the menu or indulge in a chef’s tasting. Along with perfectly concocted dishes, Katsuya has a large list of specialty cocktails with restaurant favorites such as the Watermelon Cucumber Mojito or the Lychee Lovely with vanilla infused vodka and fresh squeezed grapefruit.

Though the beautifully decorated red and white restaurant is the perfect place for dinner or a special occasion, Katsuya has recently come up with new ways for foodies to enjoy on a budget. The Lucky Seven features seven tastings, such as tuna tacos and Kobe beef sliders, for seven dollars. Other deals include Sake Specials on Monday or Garlic Shrimp paired with a pitcher of beer for twenty bucks on select days and locations.

Reservations are recommended and valet parking is sometimes your only parking option on busy nights.

Read More
+
Luna Park: Recreational Dining

luna park

Luna Park is what you think of when you think of Los Angeles restaurants: relaxed, good food, and fun.

Whether its groups of friends huddling around a table or a business lunch, the overall attitude at Luna Park is both inviting and exciting. Though the menus are packed with typical California finds, most people come to Luna Park to drink or order dessert.

The dessert menu features fun, D-I-Y options such as making your own caramel apples or s’mores as well as deep fried apples and coconut cream pie.

The popularity of Luna Park also falls in their drink menu and cocktail selection. The Kick A** Mai Tai is definitely the most popular as well as the Luna Park Mini Bar featuring three flights of the restaurant’s signature drinks.

Since the drinks at Luna Park keep the tables and outdoor patio filled, Luna Park created happy hour weekdays from 4-7pm as well as bottomless mimosas and sangria on Saturdays and Sundays.

Beware though: Miracle Mile locals and those living adjacent to Melrose might ask you to find another park to eat at.

Read More
+
Morels Steakhouse: Drink Up

In a city full of bleach blonde hair and fast food, Morel’s Steakhouse brings an element of Parisian flare that Los Angeles has desperately been craving. Located at The Grove, Morel’s is the dream steakhouse and bistro combination for those who love a good steak with a hearty onion soup. Perfectly situated next to The Grove’s famous fountain with hourly shows, Morel’s is the perfect first date, anniversary or just because restaurant to enjoy a great meal and free show. Though the red awnings are home to delicious dishes such as dessert fondue and filet mignon, Morel’s gained a reputation for being THE place to get your drink on. From crazy mojito concoctions to never ending wine lists, Morel’s is the perfect dinner and a drink location. And in true Paris form, Morel’s offers diners patio seating to enjoy live jazz music and the ambiance of those passing by. Thanks to its perfect location, wine list and food, Morel’s definitely brings a bit of Paris to a whole other city. morels cimg1337-500x375

Read More
+
Nick & Stef’s: A Steakhouse with a Twist

Though any Los Angeles Foodie will tell you that they adore any restaurant that is apart of the Patina Group, Nick & Stef’s may hold a special place for steak lovers and happy hour goers in L.A. Located Downtown, this steakhouse is the epitome of elegant dining with a splash of trendy followers and those who simply love a good drink deal. The menu is stocked with amazing items but everyone is always raving about the dry-aged steaks that vary in cut and size. Though anything on the menu is order worthy, Nick & Stef’s offers diners programs and specials that other restaurants seem to forget. Weekdays at Nick & Stef’s means happy hours filled with $5 mixed drinks and mini bar bites. Along with their proclaimed happy hour, Nick & Stef’s offers lunch steals such as their $12 burger and other lunch favorites. In a restaurant filled with dark wood tables and chairs with bright white ceilings, you might not expect such exciting things to happen at a steakhouse. With changing happy hours, lunch specials and other daily events, you might want to be on a first name basis with your good ole pals, Nick & Stef. nick 7284

Read More
+
Real Food Daily: RFD for Real Friggin’ Delicious?

Whatever you think RFD really stands for, this restaurant devoted to Vegan cuisine is one of L.A’s only restaurants that keep vegan and non-vegans coming back for more. Thanks to Ann Gentry and her devotion to organic produce and homegrown essentials, Real Food Daily has become a popular lunch and dinner hangout for those looking for healthy meals and dishes to satisfy any appetite. With vegan signatures such as Fettuccini Alfredo and “the TV Dinner”, comprised of vegetable meatloaf with mashed potatoes and veggies, dinner goers and lunch loungers all agree that they look forward to any dish that RFD is serving. If you think going vegan means skipping dessert, you won’t believe your eyes when you take a look at the dessert menu. Filled with heavenly treats such as Dream Chocolate Pudding and Coconut White Cake, you really can have your cake and eat it too. Though the food at RFD is consistent and exceptional, they are always trying new ways to spruce up the menu and keep newcomers and regulars on their toes. Summer months at RFD mean changing dessert menus that alternate weekly and picnic baskets packed with fresh produce and summer dishes made ready to order. With locations in Santa Monica and West Hollywood open seven days a week, every Angelino can indulge in some real food, daily. Real Food Daily Pic

Read More
+
OMG at AOC

The letters “AOC” on a bottle of wine explain the origins of that particular bottle. In terms of the origins of this fantastic wine and cheese bar, you would have to thank Caroline Styne and Suzanne Goin for their take on a French restaurant, combining a selection of various wines with equally perfect dinner pairings. Located on one of L.A’s Picture 36most happening streets, AOC originated as a true culinary competitor. And thanks to its atmosphere, menus and unbelievable catering, they remain undefeated. Though AOC is only open for dinner hours, there are still many ways to enjoy what's on the menu. Whether you are looking for a wine and cheese tasting or an actual sit down dinner with dishes such as Clams with Wild Mushrooms or Halibut with Carrot Puree, the end result has many diners becoming regulars. If you can’t make it during dinner hours, not to worry: AOC can cater any party or event. And if you are looking for a little more than just a meal, AOC offers “Flight & Bite” night every Monday offering two flights of wine and bite size portions for you to enjoy. Insider's Tip: With such rave reviews, you may want to round up the troops and head right over, but the truth is, AOC is perfect for a slighter older crowd consisting of Hollywood types and couples.

Read More
+
Taverna Tony is Mykonos in Malibu

Skip the 16 hour flight, because Malibu’s got the beach and Taverna Tony is the perfect Greek escape. Complete with host Tony, this home-style experience feels like a pampered invite into a hillside Mykonian kitcPicture 93hen. Taverna Tony is the local secret loved by celebs, including Sienna Miller, Jessica Alba, Jerry Bruckheimer and Salma Hayek. It's located in the trendy Malibu Country Mart where high-end shopping and dining are a common beach detour. If feeling romantic sit outside on the exotic garden patio, or for a little more spice enjoy the live music and belly dancer inside. The perfect stop for a post beach party, bring friends because portions are plentiful and the menu needs lots of sampling. For a pair of dips, Taramosalata is a wonderful salty compliment to the earthy eggplant Melintzanosalata. Spanakopita or Tiropita are musts, because everyone loves a little fluffy filo. And Moussaka enthusiasts, this one is not to be missed.

Read More
+
Tom Colicchio Knows How to Get Craft-y

Ever since Tom Colicchio made his mark on Atlanta, Dallas and New York, it was about time that the Top Chef superstar brought Craft to the City of Stars, Los Angeles. Whether it’s lunch, dinner or dessert, Craft restaurant brings swanky, sexy, simple, sophisticated American classics together without ever missing the mark. Featuring courses of octopus and Dry-Picture 9Aged sirloin, the food at Craft truly cannot be beat and pretty much everything off the menu is worth ordering. And that's the point, everything comes a la carte, and sides like Shitaki mushrooms will blow your palate away as much as the cooked-to-perfection NY strip steak. Though Craft is known for its fish and meat, it is probably one of the only Los Angeles restaurants with a dessert menu long enough to act on its own. Between classic beignets and fabulous dessert combinations, you truly get the full culinary experience. Though the food is outstanding on its own, the décor and ambiance of the restaurant truly make it an unforgettable experience. If a party is in your future, make sure to book the outdoor patio that can seat up to 80 people. In the famous words of Bravo's Top Chef, “Please pack your knives and go” to this restaurant!

Read More
+
Decadestwo’s Christos Garkinos Eats at Tere’s Mexican Grill

Decadestwo co-owner Christos Garkinos, who is the self-proclaimed "Robin Hood of Fashion," has access to some of Hollywood's best closets, like Charlize Theron, Rachel Zoe and Selma Blair. When he's not shmoozing with the rich and fabulous and filling his store with high-end consignment items at killer prices, Christos is at Tere's Mexican Grill. "It's the best Mexican food in the city," ChristosPicture 15 told citybuzz. At Melrose and Cahuenga, this popular and humble Mexican joint is just steps from his home, which as he explains is "a huge LA bonus." The easy-to-miss restaurant may have tennis ball-footed chairs and orders are only taken at the bar, but who needs pizazz when the food does all the talking? Delicious handmade tortillas wrap the overflowing burritos and tasty enchiladas. A favorite meal is the Carne Asada Nachos that's washed down with a fresh, traditional Horchata drink. The sunny, earthy interior as well as sidewalk seating make this a perfect spot to enjoy the LA sunshine, while chowing down on some of the best Mexican food North of the Border. *** Christos Garkinos is the co-owner of the popular LA consignment boutique, Decadestwo, that has been featured on Bravo's The Rachel Zoe Project. Decadestwo has high-end designer clothing, shoes and accessories from some of Hollywood's most fashionable closets. Christos is also owner of LA's Alpha, an all-encompassing men's store, which GQ named as one of the top 100 men's stores in the country.

Read More
+
Terroni is Terrific for Pizza and Pasta

This hot little Hollywood Italian spot will win your taste buds like it has won the locals. Terroni is the perfect weeknight place when craving some good carbs. Named after the region of the Picture 8restaurant's imported olive oil and hot peppers, Terroni is the real Southern Italy where simplicity reigns as much as the ingredients. At Terroni, it's best to always prepare for a little wait as the restaurant doesn't take reservations, but there's no better place than to start at the bar! A glass of the Montepulciano is the perfect pairing for all authentic antipasti, pizza or pasta fare. The pizza has that thin crust, burnt richness that can only be had when right out of the brick oven.  If you can take the heat, ask for the hot peppers. You’ll leave carrying out jars of the stuff! Besides the amazing pizza, Terroni is the perfect spot for a first or blind date; its sweet decor is just romantic enough, but the tables are close enough to spark up a conversation to your left or right if your date is a dud.

Read More
+
The Buzz Around Cafe Bizou

With three locations and endless rave reviews, it's no wonder that Café Bizou is popular all over Los Angeles, from Pasadena to Sherman Oaks to Santa Monica. This French bistro is the perfect birthday, anniversPicture 15ary or first date location. Though elegant and intimate, it’s doubtful you can show up on a Friday night without spotting a sweet sixteen to your right and a newly engaged couple to your left. If mood lighting and a quiet atmosphere is your thing, then this place probably isn’t. The Santa Monica location may be beautiful, but with that beauty comes a whole lot of people. Thanks to its two dollar corkage fee and prix fixe menus, the long wait you will experience without a reservation is most definitely worth it. Diners who swear by this café leave raving about the flourless chocolate cake and the Steak au Poivre as a few of their favorites. Café Bizou truly takes French food to a whole other level, leaving the ritzy feeling behind and bringing family and friends together. With great food and great prices, don’t be surprised to find another location coming to a city near you.

Read More
+
The Finest are Flocking to Birds

Whether they're pet lovers at heart or realize Los Angeles hipsters flock there regularly, Birds is the secret gem to going out in L.A. for a guaranteed good time. The laid back atmosphere still manages to bring in a cool crowd full of wannabe writers and Hollywood hipsters. Picture 9The three best times to visit Birds are for your birthday, an amazing happy hour, and when you are single on Valentine’s Day. For birthdays, the lovely employees of Birds will decorate the “birdcage” for the special event and fill it with balloons, drinks and utter humiliation from the guy with the microphone. If you are lucky enough to venture to the bar within the hours of 4pm-6pm, you might find yourself at your happiest. And finally, if you find yourself without a Valentine on the 14th, Birds has devoted an “anti-Valentine” themed gathering to draw in local singles to celebrate the anti-love. Other than fun birthdays and an even better atmosphere, the food and drinks are equally as appealing. With a great martini list and even better food menu, there is no reason why you should be missing out on such a great experience in Hollywood.

Read More
+
Ravaging The Food World Like An Animal

With pig ears onAnimal Pic the menu and bacon chocolate for dessert, it’s no wonder this place is called Animal. The absurd combinations may have customers questioning, but it all turns to delight when they find themselves licking the bowl clean. Powerhouse chefs Vinny Dotolo and Jon Shook took their friendship out of the culinary classroom and onto one of the busiest streets in Los Angeles. The two chefs who have taken the culinary world by storm delivering dishes full of ethnic flare and out of this world creations.  Eaters will vouch that everything is good on the menu and you truthfully cannot go wrong. What makes this dining experience unlike the rest is that you find yourself in a trendy location with terrific food. Unlike happening spots with not so happening food, the ambiance and food go hand and hand and make this dining trip worth venturing to again.

Read More
+
Pizzeria Mozza: The People Will Tell You It’s Amazing

The pizza is fabulous, the caprese salad is mouthwatering, and the olive oil ice cream is to die for. Owned by Italian culinary heavyweights Mario Batali and Joseph Bastianich (son of Lidia Bastianich), don't be surprised to see that every patron walLAmozzaking out of Pizzeria Mozza raves about every single dish on the menu. The portions, ideally shared family style, bring the best Italian food to Los Angeles from some of the most talented chefs in the world. The collaboration that is Pizzeria Mozza is far more casual than it's sister Osteria, but the food is in no way sacrificed. If you plan on making reservations the day before, think again. Though you might find yourself eating at the bar, the food is that good that you might not even care. This Hollywood hotspot brings fancy food to a casual setting, and that my friends is "Amore!"

Read More
+
Nothing to Toi About

Toi pictureEven though there are countless Thai restaurants spread all over Los Angeles, nothing compares to Toi on Sunset. Half Rock ‘n Roll café and half amazing food, this place is the ultimate stop for great veggie Thai food with even better service. Some must haves include their amazing Pad Thai and even more amazing vegetarian dishes such as the dried chili cashews and the eggplant, pumpkin and tofu. Other than the food, what makes this place so great is the atmosphere; the décor is wild and the walls are filled with rock royalty paraphernalia and posters galore. While you may find other restaurants shutting their doors earlier than eleven, this place shuts down at 4am, making this a great after hours spot for drinks and dining. And don’t worry about what days this place is open; they are open seven days a week until 4am each night! With fabulous food and a killer vibe, the only downfall would be the horrendous parking situation on the weekends; try to find a spot on Sunset or take the time to search for parking, because after all, it is open until 4am.

Read More
+
Bringing Back the Milk Moustache at Milk Shop

Whether you go sweet or savory, the Milk Shop features some of the best sandwiches, sodas,LAmilk and sweets an L.A. restaurant could offer. Though breakfast and lunch are the most popular times to visit the shop, most people stop by for a quick slice of blue velvet cake or a Shirley Temple float. If you think blue cake and whimsical ice cream floats sound more childish than chic, you won’t believe how elegant the décor is and how its fashioned similar to an upscale New York eatery. This place is a perfect first date spot where you are encouraged to create your own malts or split a pear and almond tart for two. With first daters, young couples, and anyone who loves good food, it wasn’t long until the ladies from MTV’s The Hills made their debut on the show eating a casual late afternoon lunch here. If you are going for lunch, do how the Hills girls do; snag a table outside on the street to get front row seating for people watching.

Read More
+
Glitz, Glam and Geoffrey’s

When you think of Malibu dining, you think of oceanfront seating and impeccable seafood. If you are in the mood for the Malibu dining experience, there is no better place than Geoffrey’s. Situated right on the water, the laidback and ambient environment makes this restaurant the perfect first date place spot or a place to celebrate an occasion. With gorgeous waterfront views and the sights of Malibu, the food definitely matches up to the ambiance and décor. With favorites such as baked brie and caramelized pears for an appetizer and a selection of seafood such as paella and lobster, the seafood extraordinaire is always tastefully satisfied. If you are thinking that good food in a beautiful setting will bring in the glam and glitz, you are right. Celebrities such as a Dick Clark swear by Geoffrey’s and visiting this restaurant is always a chance for a nice photo opp. If you can’t make it out for dinner, brunch at Geoffrey’s is still something that shouldn’t be missed. Dishes such as Sautéed Day Boat Sea Scallops with a Foie Gras Risotto keep brunch at Geoffrey’s in a league of its own. Who needs a man who looks good, can cook and treats you like a queen: you’ll always have Geoffrey.

Read More
+
Spitz – Home of the Doner Kebab

When their saying is “Home of the doner kebab,” you know they must be doing something right. Thanks to two college students that dreamed of distributing the classic and fresh food to the streets of Los Angeles, Spitz became a getaway for those craving the Spanish food but couldn’t seem to get away to Madrid in time to get it. With two locations offering dishes such as “The Chicken Doner” where you are encouraged to pick a bread, style and sauce to accompany the chicken and other vegetables offered with the dish, people seem to be craving kebab more than ever. Along with the classic doner meals, Spitz offers wraps and salads for those craving the kebab with fewer calories. Though the food is definitely all the rage at Spitz, the clever college men included a full bar and even a happy hour full of hummus strips and sangria to bring back an element of college life. Though spit comes from the device in which the meat is cooked vertically, patrons and kebab lovers do anything but spit out anything Spitz is serving.

Read More
+
Patio Perfection at Cafe Pinot

As a member of L.A.’s infamous Patina Restaurant Group, Café Pinot is the perfect culmination of dining outdoors with American and French Californian cuisine. Centrally located downtown, Café Pinot is that restaurant that your parents are probably going to before they see Elton John play in concert or where your roommate is taking his girlfriend for their anniversary before he drags her to the Lakers game. But if you choose to embark on downtown activities such as a nice little visit to the Staples Center, some patrons swear that the only thing that should truly never be missed at Patina is the desserts. With classic favorites such as chocolate lava cake and apple crumble, those can enjoy everything Patina has to offer either before or after the first basket. And in true Los Angeles fashion, Patina encourages patrons to enjoy the outdoor patio seating where it is most important to be seen. Though other restaurants may offer dining outdoors, no one truly does it like this restaurant. Though you might have to dress up and keep the kids at home, Café Pinot is the perfect addition to everything downtown L.A. has to offer and added that little extra that it was missing.
Next →
Prev →
  • © 2017 CITYBUZZ
  • VIDEOPUMP.tv
  • VIDICOM.com
  • Affiliates