In today’s newsletter: some LA musts: sunset views from the Stahl House, a show at The Greek Theatre, drinks at Chateau Marmont, and dinner at Musso & Frank. Plus, some things newsworthy.

One of the reasons I started writing Scout LA was because I was surprised by how frequently I’d be talking with a native or long-time Angeleno and realize my “bucket list” of restaurants, hikes, neighborhoods, shops, and other places to explore in the city hadn’t been experienced by them, either. My hope is that Scout LA reminds and/or spotlights for my readers the never ending wonders available to them in Los Angeles, and to never stop being a tourist in their own city.

Below are a few recent visits that were first-times for me in LA that I believe are worth experiencing by anyone living here (or not, by the way!):

The Stahl House: Case Study House #22

Of all the historical homes I’ve toured in Los Angeles (Eames, Schindler, Fitzpatrick-Leland, Mar Vista Tract), the Stahl House stands out as particularly special. After stalking the tour calendar for months and repeatedly being met with sold out dates, I eventually secured an evening tour slot (I wish I had more of a strategy to share, but honestly just checked the calendar every day until one morning I saw they had posted new tour dates).

Many are probably aware by now that Stahl House is for sale. of Zephyr Letter wrote an awesome piece detailing the history of the home and the debates and challenges surrounding listing it. Given the uncertainty that comes with a sale, I selfishly was stoked about getting in for a tour ahead of it.

Our docent had seventeen (!) years of experience providing tours of the home, and was engaging and informative. As a trained photographer, he even offered to capture an imitation of the legendary black and white Shulman photograph that made the home famous and a world-renowned symbol of mid-century modern design.

What’s so special about the evening tour is that you have a front row seat to 270- degree views of the city as the landscape changes from sunset to dusk to nighttime. Each moment is more beautiful than the next as you watch LA transform from golden hour perfection to a twinkling urban landscape. I understand why it’s one of the most celebrated views of Los Angeles, with the Stahl architectural masterpiece at the focus.

The Greek Theatre

There’s just something about seeing a show outside, on a summer evening, music playing, in the middle of a canyon. The intimate nature of a concert at The Greek makes the entire experience enjoyable: tickets are more affordable than at larger venues, there are great views from nearly every seat, and the parking shuttle is inexpensive and efficient. Importantly for the women reading, the bathrooms are also spotless.

I’m debating buying tickets to see Foster the People in September. Are any of you going?!

Chateau Marmont

Sitting for drinks in the courtyard of Chateau Marmont is about as LA as it gets. The lush, tropical plants, French inspired décor, Old Hollywood staff attire, no photo policy, and almost guaranteed celebrity sightings (I spotted David Jonsson and Lil Jon) create a vibe like none other. The downside? Drinks are $$$$ (the valet even more so), and it’s basically impossible to drop by for a drink without a meal reservation unless you’re with a guest of the hotel. That said, the experience is worth the money and effort.

Musso & Frank

No one speaks or writes on the topic of Old Hollywood without mentioning Musso & Frank. I’ve been to several other red booth, red sauce joints (Dan Tana’s, Jones, La Dolce Vita) and couldn’t wait to try the arguably most legendary of the bunch, and definitely the most historic (est. 1919).

Entering through the back entrance leads you past a parking lot, down a set of stairs, through a hallway with vintage phone booths (reportedly used by many famous industry folks) and photographs, and past dozens of red booths to the host stand at the front of the restaurant. You could just enter here, but it wouldn’t be as fun.

The restaurant is huge, much larger than the aforementioned classic establishments. It’s also full and bustling. Waiters in red tuxes dance around the dining room floor with martinis, shrimp cocktail, and filets in hand. There is a mix of large parties, families, date nights, locals, and tourists. The food’s what you would expect: good, not great, but perfect for the occasion. The juxtaposition of the old school interior with modern day Hollywood Boulevard as you step outside post-meal is jarring, to say the least.

I definitely see many more large group Musso & Frank dinners in my future for fun, special occasions.

NEWSWORTHY

• Organic Oren is popping up outside of SoCal for the first time ever at The Montauk General Store this weekend. See here if you missed my writeup on my experience trying the meal service.

• This home for sale in Faircrest Heights is calling my name…Shall we take bets on how many hundreds of thousands of dollars over the ask price this will go for?

• Spinelli Kilcollin is running a 2-day only Sample Sale in Los Angeles, and online, for two days only August 28-29.

• Star Party Silver Lake is hosting a Lunar Eclipse viewing party on Thursday with live music and ice cream. Let’s all pray for no clouds!

• Bill Esparza’s Taqueando After Dark DTLA taco and street food event lineup looks incredible.

The song stuck in my head this week:

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In today’s newsletter: a conversation with Row 7, the seed-to-table company creating unique and outstanding vegetable varieties, on their events in LA this week. Plus, some things newsworthy.

Row 7 is a seed-to-table company reinventing how we eat by reinventing how we grow. Founded by Chef Dan Barber of Blue Hill at Stone Barns, the company brings chefs, farmers and plant breeders together to co-select new vegetable varieties optimized for unique and exceptional flavor. That ground-up approach has made Row 7 a Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies honoree (2026) and a Food & Wine Game Changers award-winner (2026). Most recently, Row 7’s tinned Sweet Prince Tomatoes were named a winner in Bon Appetit’s inaugural Pantry Awards (2026).

What does Row 7 have planned over the next week in Los Angeles, and how can we participate?

Beginning August 20th, Row 7 is spending a full week cooking, tasting, and talking vegetables across Los Angeles with 25+ restaurants. You can catch the veggie truck at Clark Street Bakery, Sqirl, Beethoven Market, and Crudo e Nudo, plus a special appearance at Hollywood Farmers Market with Weiser Family Farms and Now Serving LA. For the full list of restaurants where Row 7 will be featured on menus, check out our Instagram here.

Why did you want to host a series of events here in LA? Does Row 7 have ties to the city?

Los Angeles has always been a deeply meaningful city for Row 7. Chef Dan started his culinary journey here, and LA is home to some of Row 7’s earliest chef collaborators, like Sara Kramer and Sarah Hymanson at Kismet and Nancy Silverton of Mozza Group. Beyond those personal ties, Los Angeles is fundamentally defined by its relationship to produce. It has one of the most vibrant food cultures and such a high concentration of produce-driven chefs, making it a natural hub for what we do. While Row 7 already works closely with incredible restaurant partners across the city, this event series is all about deepening those community relationships, building new ones, and continuing to expand our footprint in Southern California.

LA is known for having some of the best produce and farmers markets in the country. What makes your vegetable and fruit varieties unique and stand out over others (and warrant the higher prices)?

LA has an incredible produce culture, and we’re proud to partner with regional organic farmers in California who share our values. But what makes Row 7 different starts before the seed ever hits soil. Most vegetables are bred for yield, shelf life and uniformity. We start with flavor, working with chefs, farmers and plant breeders to develop and select entirely new varieties that are both delicious and profitable for the organic farmer. We’re trying to rewrite the entire supply chain - from seed to soil to plant - leading with flavor.

Are there any future LA collaborations you’re exploring?

We’re always on the hunt for new ways to connect with the community in LA. Local partnerships are the core of what we do. We’re long-time partners with Alex Weiser, who grows and trials our crops locally, and moving forward you can expect more chef collaborations, pop-ups and local partnerships across LA. In the meantime, we’re working to scale Row 7 organic vegetables into more kitchens through retailers and distributors. You can find Row 7 vegetables at Whole Foods, Sprouts Farmers Market, Misfits Market, Good Eggs Grocery and Erewhon. Chefs can access them via distributors like Vesta and Chefs Warehouse LA.

What are your most popular products?

Right now it’s peak Sweet Garleek, so that’s what we’re celebrating this week. It’s a first-of-its-kind garlic-by-leek hybrid that marries the sweetness of leeks with the mild, savory notes of garlic, and you can use the whole thing, tops and all - sautéed, grilled or simply raw.

Sweet Prince tomatoes are another favorite - that perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. You can eat them raw straight from the pint, but we’ve also preserved them in tin form, where they take on the jammy depth of slow-roasted tomatoes.

Where can Scout LA readers find Row 7 products, both in person this week and in general?

Please see the full list of events and participating restaurants here. You can find Row 7 vegetables at Whole Foods, Sprouts Farmers Market and Erewhon, and Row 7 tinned vegetables and seeds at row7seeds.com.

NEWSWORTHY

• Dine LA is running from August 14 - August 28. My favorite menus: Bistro Na’s, Firstborn, PADI, Rasarumah, and Sushi Note Omakase. Sarah Lewitinn of Jacaranda also makes her case for their Dine LA menu on Food Talk Central.

• Cafe Panna is popping up in Venice with Nespresso from August 21 - 23. The coconut double espresso crunch is calling my name.

• Asher Bingham’s watercolors of homes and businesses lost in the fires are worth a peruse.

• Guided tours are back at Hollyhock House, LA’s only UNESCO World Heritage site.

• I may be late to the game here, but you can now add your CA Drivers License to your mobile wallet as part of the state’s DMV Mobile Drivers License Pilot. I’m looking forward to a future where I never have to scour my bag for my ID again.

• Antico Nuovo is serving Melon ice cream as their newest seasonal flavor, thanks to Weiser Family Farms melons.

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In today’s newsletter: a languorous, delightful dinner at Da Prato

DA PRATO

The universe wasn’t on my side when planning to dine at Da Prato, the DTLA Italian popup serving Tuscan fare from chef Elisa Da Prato. Intrigued by the warm toned imagery and whimsical, poetic language adorning their website and Instagram, and, after some research, the accolades from Elisa’s previous restaurants in Tuscany and New York, I secured a reservation for a Friday evening.

Soon after, Elisa personally called me to inform me she was hosting a Spaghettata (translated to mean “spaghetti event”) on the evening I was scheduled to dine. My first thought was, “this woman is so cool” — welcoming, confident, clearly loves what she does. My second was, while enticing, I wanted to try more from the menu, so rescheduled to Sunday evening. That Sunday, the restaurant closed for the night due to plumbing issues in the kitchen.

Now that I’ve successfully dined at Da Prato (third time’s a charm), I realize how fitting these initial interactions were. A meal at Da Prato is not polished. It feels flexible and go with the flow. More so like you’re savoring a meal at your Italian cousin’s place than you’re being served by an efficiently run hospitality business. Familial and cozy. Incredibly intentional. Original. And at times, like any family function, a bit unfiltered. And if it’s not clear, I mean all of this in the most positive and refreshing way.

From the rustic and unpretentious space, conversational service, and measured pacing between courses, to the delicate and art-like preparation and plating of the dishes themselves, it’s clear how much love goes into all aspects of the Da Prato experience. Gorgeous, organic flowers welcome you at the entrance (in stark contrast to the unassuming graffitied entrance). Handwritten script menus, thick dripping candles, black linen napkins, and a thoughtful wine list await us at the table. The chef prepares dishes in view of diners, eyeballing salt and olive oil portions, picking various herbs from an apothecary-like table in the middle of the restaurant, and cutting into oozing honey frames.

All of the dishes we tried were beautifully plated, magical and delicate. The honeycomb & lemon antipasti was my favorite dish of the evening. Citrus from the lemon carpaccio alongside the sweet hexagons of honeycomb were a unique and perfect combination. Order the onion and herb focaccia, delicious in its own right, to soak up the plate. Other antipasti we tried were the chile spiced beef tartare, the kick balanced with sweetness from ripe blackberries and plums, and the well-dressed pomodoro, alongside strawberries and doused with fresh grapefruit juice for a twist on a traditional tomato salad.

I’m told the pasta is what we’re here for, and order the Nymph, flat-sheet noodles in a butter sage sauce, and the Speck and Gorgonzola shells. After enjoying the insanely decadent and delicious shells (I love a fun pasta shape), we’re told there was a mixup with the dough for the Nymph, and that they would serve the dish with linguine instead and take it off our bill. I appreciated the candid ownership of their mistake, and the hospitable problem solving. Seemingly, the snafu was meant to be, because the Nymph was my other favorite dish of the night. I wouldn’t be surprised if they start serving it with linguine instead! Both handmade pastas were served perfectly al dente, and this one’s butter-herb sauce was to die for.

We finished with lamb chops coated in a balsamic glaze and served with a bitter radicchio salad. Our glass of red wine paired well with each dish. We had no room for dessert, but the homemade chocolate bark and fresh figs with honey and crème sounded insane.

I truly loved my meal for an early Sunday date night. It was quaint, romantic, slow, and indulgent. If and when I return I’ll order the honeycomb, some pastas, and if with a group, will try the ribeye.

Now, who Da Prato is not for: anyone in a rush, maximizing for efficiency or judging on perfection in execution. This ristorante is run by people interested in the pleasure that a meal provides when enjoyed slowly, in the company of passionate chefs, delicious traditional Italian food, and friends and family.

Give it a try on a Thursday-Sunday through the end of the year. After that, you’ll have to track where Elisa is off to in the world to cook next.

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In today’s newsletter: morning, afternoon, and evening options for enjoying a day in Venice.

VENICE

Venice is one of the most polarizing neighborhoods in Los Angeles. It’s impossible to ignore the disparity that exists on its streets. There is highly visible homelessness and mental illness, and the boardwalk is overrun with aggressive vendors, drug use, and trash. Property crime rates are higher than average, and less serious but frustrating nonetheless, is the lack of parking and tourist crowds. That said, you can’t deny its charm. The quintessential California landscape fuels some of the highest priced real estate per square foot in the city: streets lined with beach bungalows, the ocean as a backyard, fresh, salty air; sun-kissed surfers, bikers, skateboarders, and generally fit people of all ages active and outside. Venice is vibrant, walkable, chill.

It’s also a great place to spend a day in the summer to escape the inner city heat. Here are some ideas for spending an active day in the Westside neighborhood.

MORNING

• Walks & Workouts

  • Venice Canals: The first time I saw the Venice Canals, I couldn’t believe it. One second I was walking down what seemed like a standard residential street, and the next I had entered a hidden network of waterfront walkways, eclectic homes, and picturesque bridges stretching through the middle of Venice. recently published a great read on the history of the Canals if you’d like to learn more before visiting.

  • Venice Walk Streets: Even more off the beaten path than the Canals are the Venice Walk Streets. I’m always surprised by how they remain under the radar. They consist of four pedestrian-only streets: Nowita Place, Marco Place, Amoroso Place and Crescent Place. You can sneak peeks at a mix of modern and bohemian homes with elaborate gardens. It’s a trip! Here’s a map I use to navigate from Ellie & Co.

  • Open: This studio has some of the best breathwork, meditation, and mindful movement classes in LA.

• Coffee

  • Flo: A coffee bar tucked away in a garage art gallery. Closed Sunday and Monday.

  • Menotti’s: The first of now three Menotti’s locations in LA, with “secret” off-menu items.

  • Hooked: I wrote about my love for Hooked here. Closed Friday & Saturday.

  • Fast Times Coffee: in the back of the Buck Mason women’s store.

• Breakfast & Brunch

  • Paisita: a laid back cafe if you’re looking for a quick bite, with delicious breakfast burritos and chilaquiles.

  • Flake: a beloved order-at-the-window breakfast spot. Try the famous croissant breakfast sandwich.

  • RVR: if you can’t snag a dinner res at RVR, it’s typically easier to get a table during weekend brunch (and you can get a lot of the same dinner menu items)!

  • Gjusta: I don’t understand why anyone’s a hater. Their food is great and their daytime vibes are some of the best in the city.

  • Gjelina: their pancakes and bacon are to die for.

AFTERNOON

Activities

• Beach: if you’re planning to spend most of the day at the beach, my favorite is Marina Peninsula Beach that, technically speaking, may or may not still be a part of Venice. Do yourself a favor and spend the day here instead of anywhere near the Venice boardwalk.

• Venice Skatepark: I love to watch the impressive skateboarders here, flying in the air against the Pacific back drop.

• Shopping:

  • Heist: while Abbot Kinney has become an overly commercialized stretch, Heist is a highly curated and splurgeworthy shop that’s fun to browse (and sprint to the sale rack).

  • General Store: cute assortment of new and vintage gifts and home items.

  • Brooklyn Charm: tons of chains and charms to create your own jewelry

  • Big Red Sun: a garden store and lifestyle boutique that also throws epic community events.

  • The Mart Collective: a giant space full of antique, vintage, and modern home goods.

• Wellness:

  • Handmade in Venice: join a monthly workshop to create ceramics, resin trays, and more.

  • Likeminded or Teddy’s Hot House: for community sauna and cold plunges.

  • Den Mother: a wellness oasis offering massages, acupuncture, sauna, cold plunge, and more in a garden like environment.

  • The Cook’s Garden: an urban farm in Venice that hosts gardening workshops, visits to their animal sanctuary, and sells farm fresh eggs.

• Snacks

  • The Canal Market: located near the Venice Canals, a neighborhood specialty market for wine, coffee, and snacks.

  • Venice Farmers Market: held on Friday mornings from 7am- 11am.

  • Bodega & Palms: staples, prepared foods, breakfast burritos, and more. Closed Sunday.

  • Gjusta Grocer: great for grab and go items, breads, flowers, and wine.

EVENING

• Dinner

  • RVR: a California inspired izakaya. A must if you’ve never been.

  • Felix: some of my favorite Italian in the city. The focaccia is insane.

  • Barrique: also Italian but in a hidden, set back, home setting.

  • Dudley Market: outstanding seafood, burgers, and wine joint located steps from the beach. Great for beach sunsets.

  • First Friday’s: a food truck event that takes over Abbott Kinney the first Friday of every month.

  • Food Shop: invite-only supper club in Venice (and elsewhere).

• Drinks

  • Force of Nature: a speakeasy overlooking The Cook’s Garden from the woman behind Crudo e Nudo.

  • The Brig: a long standing, busy bar with an outdoor patio and pool tables.

  • Penmar: Friday Sunset Sessions in the summer are a great vibe for drinks and live music. Families gather on the earlier side.

  • Scopa: a large bar at a solid Italian restaurant for a date-night vibe.

VENICE MAP

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In today’s newsletter: a Scout LA survey I’ll be very grateful if you fill out, my favorite Courage Bagel, a Damo Einspanner, Philz, Casablanca’s flour tortillas, and Surf Outpost.

FOOD, DRANK, ETC

From East to West, highlights from spots worth visiting for eats, coffee, and otherwise:

• Courage Bagels: I’ve set the summer city sidewalk scene, so on to the meal itself. Given it’s prime tomato season, I knew I wanted to try the cream cheese tomato bagel. The simplicity of the lemon, salt, pepper, and olive oil coating the most spectacular, ripe red tomato from the Santa Monica Farmers Market, set atop a perfectly crisped everything bagel with a light cream cheese spread across, was truly a mind boggling experience. Hands down one of my favorite bites of the year. It blew away the special “Roman Love Story” sandwich they’re serving during lunch (olive oil, marinated artichoke, prosciutto, mozzarella, on a plain bagel). While also delicious, it just paled in comparison. While you can’t go wrong at Courage (I’ve tried many variations over the years), I can’t quite remember any bagel as good as the uncomplicated cream cheese tomato.

• Damo: I am a pretty simple girl when it comes to coffee, and don’t typically use it as a means for eating dessert. The sweet potato, banana milk, french toast, blueberry cheesecake, whatever the f*** else lattes I’m seeing on cafe menus these days are absolutely insane. I have, however, started to enjoy a simple cream top on an iced americano as a treat once in a while. Damo is a Korean tea house with locations in Koreatown and DTLA. They’re well known for their matcha and other teas, though I opted for the black Einspanner, iced. The cream was thick and almost buttery in flavor, sprinkled with cacao powder and set atop espresso. The vanilla bean Einspanner was a bit sweeter, though I enjoyed the vanilla flavor it added to the coffee when mixed. Both are photogenic and worth trying.

• Philz: On the topic of coffee and how sugar forward a lot of menus are becoming, I’d love to see more easily customizable offerings. Even though Philz offers trendy, sweet items like Tiramisu and Peanut Butter Cup, their menu allows you to pick your creamer and sweetener level the same way you’d select the size of your drink. When ordering ahead on their app you can even add special instructions, which is a rarity these days. I find Philz to be super underrated and overshadowed by kitschy chains like LaLaLand. My favorites are a half-caf Philtered Soul Cold Brew or a decaf Mint Mojito iced, both with no sweetener and light cream. Mmmm.

• Casablanca Tortillas: You come to Casablanca for the handmade flour tortillas. The vibes fueled by the large bar and “Tequila Express” margarita cart are also a plus. But the warm tortillas with green salsa served by default instead of chips and guac are to die for. Made fresh at a station in the center of the restaurant, the tortillas are served hot and pillowy, large and floppy, and are melt-in-your-mouth yummy. Someone on Reddit described them as “crack.”

• Surf Outpost: You guys liked last week’s letter highlighting Malibu’s hidden farms, so here’s another Malibu gem for you. On my way out to Paradise Cove this weekend, I stopped at the Surf Outpost market to grab some beach snacks. Surf Outpost is an RV park and camping ground just past Malibu Seafood on PCH. Their market serves as the check-in desk and general store for those staying on property, but is absolutely open to the public. It’s expertly curated with high quality snacks, bath products, wine, merch, and more. I love the fact there’s a healthy and local bend to the assortment: Lesser Evil popcorn, Siete BBQ potato chips, Tru Fru chocolate covered raspberries, Bu Bread, and Jumbo Time Wines stock the shelves, as do cotton tampons and Thinksport mineral sunscreen if you find yourself in a pinch on the way to the beach. The views from the grounds alone are worth the detour, set atop a bluff overlooking the ocean.

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In today’s newsletter: two wholesome Malibu farms, an inconspicuous interior design gallery, and quick food takes.

MALIBU’S COMMUNITY FARM STANDS

Some of Malibu’s most hidden treasures aren’t beaches or hiking trails, but the community-run farm stands beloved by locals for their fresh, local produce. Next time you’re in the area, consider stopping by Thorne Family Farm and/or Malibu Fig Ranch for a taste (literally) of the wholesome version of Malibu.

• Thorne Family Farm: This family-run farm is set back from PCH, surrounded by stunning Malibu estates and other small farms. Gorgeous rows of flowers greet you, with bouquets for sale. A rustic wooden structure houses buckets of fresh fruit, vegetables, local eggs, homemade jams, and more. Varsity Bakers sells breads and pastries. Depending on the week, you might also find live music, reflexology, or a corn maze. Kids play at the geese pen, picnic tables, and throughout the rows of vegetables. Open seasonally on Saturdays, 9am - 1pm. No dogs allowed.

• Malibu Fig Ranch: Situated directly across from Point Dume Village, Malibu Fig Ranch is the farm of Kerry Clasby, also known as The Intuitive Forager. Kerry sources produce for some of the country’s top chefs, visiting dozens of California farms weekly to find the best (and often rarest) produce available. It’s hard to stop inhaling the farm’s natural floral and herbal scents everywhere you walk. The experience of selecting produce is a bit unique here: you actually enter a giant metal cooler where you’re greeted with a rainbow of fresh fruits and vegetables to choose from. We rang the service bell and a sun-kissed, barefoot farmer checked us out. You don’t see that every day! Open daily, 9am - 6pm.

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GALERIE 658

It’s easy to miss this by-appointment-only design showroom, situated in a charming Beverly Grove home that’s hidden behind tall hedges and entry gates. The experience of arrival is similar to that of Spencer’s: intrigue about what’s behind the mysterious doors, excitement about discovering a space that feels like a secret, confidence that you’re in for a treat.

Galerie 658 showcases a rotation of vintage and antique furniture and decor, swapped out quarterly. The walls are lined with art for sale from the founder’s own collection, and the floors are carpeted with their very own rug line that’s both design forward and functional. Exploring the gallery is like taking in a friend’s home that you’re visiting for the first time: each room feels cozy and comfortable, and anticipation draws your eyes to the various collection pieces throughout.

The Galerie 658 team is behind the design project at Boul’ange on Fairfax (which I wrote about here). Anyone who has visited knows how beautiful that space is. I was informed that their team will also be designing the speakeasy and Japanese restaurant opening next door.

Some rapid-fire food thoughts from the weekend to round out this newsletter:

• Cosetta: I’d argue this is one of the best options for eating out in Santa Monica if you’re looking for quality food and a fun, lively vibe. Lean into the comfort food on the menu: the mozzarella sticks and chicken wings were A+, and the pizza was solid. For the gluten-free among us, Cosetta has one of the most extensive and clearly marked menus I’ve seen.

• Panini Kabob Grill: I’ve had it many times before but was reminded this weekend that I could legitimately drink the dressing on the romaine avocado salad. It’s that good.

• Lily’s: Be warned that these days (aka prime Malibu summer season) a wait on the weekends is close to forty minutes, though my hot and fresh fish burrito was well worth it. Try ordering ahead.

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There has been a lot of discourse lately about what it means to be a neighborhood restaurant: see Eater, ’s recent letter, ’s take, and past notes of mine on the topic. For me, Maxine’s embodies the definition.

Warm and hospitable in both atmosphere and service. Waiters interacting with regulars. Kids and dogs welcome. Walkable and easy to park at, for those coming from close by, or across town. A place for a totally comfortable, friendly experience. Tangible love poured into the cooking and the space.

At the end of the meal, when we told our waiter it was our first time, he said, “Welcome to the family.” That pretty much sums up the experience of dining at Maxine’s.

In today’s newsletter: A fantastic meal at Little Fish and lots of things newsworthy.

LITTLE FISH

I’m not going to lie, I was pretty stoked Friday morning when I received the LA Times alert that Bill Addison had published a review of Little Fish. I was even more stoked after reading it, since his notes were glowing. What timing! My reservation had been made days prior for 7:30pm that night.

Expectations were high. I’d heard and read other rave reviews about Little Fish, and though it may not be fair, I associate the Melrose Hill area with stellar meals I’ve had at Bar Etoile and Ètra. Throw a Bill Addison review into the mix, and let’s just say the bar was set.

We arrive and the restaurant is electric. The space is full, bright, energetic. People are sipping glasses of wine at the window bar. We’re led outside to enjoy wine on the sidewalk until our table is ready. The California chilled red is fantastic. It feels like summer.

Our group contemplates important decisions about what to order. The waiter scribbles the crudo special on the white paper tablecloth and shares his favorites about the menu. Eventually we recite our agreed upon selections to him: the daily crudo (yellowtail), tuna stuffed olives, a beach sandwich, seasonal melon, rockfish karaage (though on Friday it was actually cod), corn dumplings, french fries, and the half chicken.

The food is outstanding. Portions are on the smaller side, and we order just the right amount for a hungry group of four. We enjoy the beach sandwich so much that we put in a request for a second. The mussel, pepper, potato chip, and mayo layers just work on the airy ciabatta.

The cod karaage is unexpectedly light and the light fry lets you appreciate the high quality fish. With corn in season the dumplings are a buttery, sweet delight. And though it’s a fish restaurant, the chicken is absolutely killer: served with a flavorful jus, moist, deboned meat, and perfectly crisp skin.

I would order everything again except the tuna stuffed olives. They are served hot (I’m not sure why, but I was expecting them to be cold), and while I love olives and tuna, apparently I prefer them served separately. The yellowtail crudo was delicious, but it was a standard take on a popular menu item in Los Angeles.

Cheesecake for dessert was a swalty (sweet and salty) finish to an amazing meal. I would return again in a heartbeat.

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NEWSWORTHY

• If you haven’t already, check out my LA-focused takeover on We Scouted last week.

• Pizzeria Sei’s new location is using DoorDash as its reservations platform. I have yet to make a reservation through DoorDash, but apparently need to since you get $12 in DoorDash credit after dining. I’m curious if Pizzeria Sei was paid to use DoorDash over Resy, the platform their original location used. Other notable restaurants accepting reservations through DoorDash in LA include Loreto, Beethoven Market, Seline, Gjelina, and Pijja Palace.

• I’m looking forward to visiting the newly opened Bodega & Palms.

• You can preorder Wong Farms mangoes so you don’t end up greeted by a sold out sign at the Hollywood Farmers Market like I was.

• Celebrated LA facialist Andrea Ámez was featured a few weeks ago in The Cut, and shares her favorite LA wellness spots.

• In other skincare news, Violet Grey will open a second LA location at Palisades Village.

• And in other Palisades news, some trails at Temescal Park will open for the first time since the fires on Friday.

• Airmail profiled Rebecca Ressler of Hollywood Books, which is included on my gallery walk map of the area.

• While I don’t have a baby, I can relate to this woman’s feelings about the busted sidewalks of LA.

• Broome Street General opened a location at The Platform.

• Restaurants take note: Cafe Telegrama’s flyer giveaway was such a cute marketing idea and fun way to surprise and delight local customers.

• Bon Appétit partnered with Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus to highlight top food destinations in the area and how to get there by bus.

• I am not a froyo girl, but for the fans: Meadow in Venice looks pretty good. Lillie’s permanent location is opening in September. And my prediction is that many other new age froyo shops will open soon throughout the city.

• Petitgrain is partnering with popup bakers, allowing them to use the space on Mondays and Tuesdays while the bakery is closed. Genius.

• In other bakery news, the popular Venice popup, Manifold Bakery, announced plans to open a permanent location in Venice.

• The new gluten free pancakes at Hatchet Hall look incredible.

• Vanity Fair’s article about growing up at Dan Tana’s is a fun read.

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In today’s newsletter: Mish Deli’s pastrami is fire, the Virginia Robinson Gardens are beautiful, and quick, mostly positive takes on Henry’s Secret Ice Cream and the David Geffen Galleries at LACMA.

MISH DELI

La Brea is a street that makes LA feel like a true urban landscape: decrepit buildings and potholes that will ruin your tires coexist with gems ranging from République and American Rag, to Heimat and Toiro (RIP to Dr. Collectors).

New kid on the block, Mish Deli, fits right in.

It’s located on the shoppable stretch of La Brea between West 1st and West 2nd in a giant warehouse space, with high wooden rafter lined ceilings, exposed brick walls, tiled floors, and a long communal table at the center. It feels like a modern cafeteria, in a good way. The space is packed and lively, with folks in line panicking about what to order before it’s their turn at the deli counter, friends and families chatting and chowing down, and workers weaving in and out of the crowds and chairs to keep things moving. There’s true character and a community feel — that’s what Jewish food is all about!

Go with a group and order lots to share. The smoked pastrami and rosemary turkey are standouts. You can order one of their signature menu item sandwiches or build your own. I’m a New York Jew and can confirm the meats rival the best of the best Jewish delis. Pricing-wise, their $28 reuben is essentially on par with legacy LA institutions such as Langer’s ($27), Factor’s ($26), and Brent’s ($26).

Other menu items were hit or miss for me. The tuna salad had too much dill for my taste (though I liked that it wasn’t mayo forward), and while the smoked salmon was delicious, the bagel itself was just ok. Baked goods wise, the babka and hamantaschen were winners over the rugelach. I need to go back to try the latkes, black & white cookies, and the salad. It’s worth noting you can stop in and order pastries, coffee, and matcha at a separate coffee bar if you don’t want food, and that despite currently being an 8am-5pm establishment, Mish serves cocktails and wine (there are plans to open late night under the name “Bar Mitzvah”). Genius.

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VIRGINIA ROBINSON GARDENS

$800. That’s how much a plot of land in Beverly Hills cost when The Robinsons purchased their six-plus acre property that would become the first luxury estate in Beverly Hills. Once a place where British royalty and Hollywood elite would gather for parties, meals, and sporting events, today it’s on the National Register of Historic Places, and per Virginia Robinsons request upon her passing, is owned and operated by the LA County Department of Parks and Recreation.

The pool house and pavilion transport you to an Italian villa, while the main residence is Beaux-Arts style. The true stars of the property, however, are not the structures, but the various gardens throughout. There’s a great, green lawn lined with manicured cypress trees, an Italian Renaissance garden, a rose garden, a citrus garden, an herb garden, and a tropical Australian king palm forest. The property is so large and diverse that botanists, horticulturalists, and arborists consult on where certain plant species will thrive due to differences in sunlight, soil, and topography.

The lawns and gardens are truly magnificent. Terrace levels at the Italian garden afford ocean views, while the lush forest on the eastern side of the property makes you feel like you’ve left California and entered a tropical rainforest in Hawaii. Fountains, waterfalls, and lily ponds add to the peaceful environment.

As droughts and heat have plagued California in more recent times, the estate has adapted to be more sustainable, turning its front lawn into a meadow requiring less water, investing in an irrigation system to eliminate waste, and actively composting. To further support the local community, the nonprofit organization preserving the estate and gardens raises money so children from across Los Angeles can enjoy the nature, science, and history of the property.

Docent-led tours of the gardens can be booked online for $18. They sell out fast!

QUICK TAKES

Henry’s Secret Ice Cream

I finally secured a drop, and in time for the Fourth! While the logistics of obtaining a pint that sells out super quickly and needs to be picked up in a specific timeframe and location were a challenge, and spending $22 for a pint of ice cream feels absurd, it can’t be denied that the ice cream is the real deal. I’m a coffee girl and tried the Coffee Cookies & Cream flavor. The coffee ice cream itself was out of this world. While I didn’t feel the cookie component was great (soft and kind of flavorless) I would definitely try other flavors given how much I loved the main draw: the ice cream itself.

David Geffen Galleries @ LACMA

All I can say is, wow! The newly designed galleries and the permanent collection of over 2,000 works spanning 6,000 years are outstanding. The building itself is a piece of art, and the layout allows you to wander seamlessly between rooms and spaces highlighting different regions, time periods, and mediums. LA residents can visit free of charge on weekdays after 3pm!

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I hope everyone has an awesome long weekend — Happy 4th!

In today’s newsletter: the best of West Third Street.

WEST THIRD

Technically speaking, West Third Street starts in Beverly Hills and runs in a straight shot all the way to DTLA. The West Third Street described in today’s newsletter, however, is the stretch between La Cienega and Fairfax, or, as I like to describe it, the section sandwiched between the iconic Beverly Center (and Beverly Connection — I die for a deal at Marshalls, Bloomingdale’s Outlet, and Nordstrom Rack) and The Grove.

These commercial shopping landmarks bookend the often overlooked and, in my opinion, far more interesting blocks of West Third, where some of my favorite small businesses and independent shops line the sidewalks.

Unfortunately, it’s been a difficult few years for West Third Street. Soaring rents, declining foot traffic, and persistent street disorder have left dozens of storefronts vacant. At first glance, it can feel like chain brands and For Lease signs dominate the area.

But, I’m here to tell you there are still plenty of shops and eateries worth seeking out. Hidden gems on West Third worth making a trip for! It’s a great stretch to plan an afternoon around. If you’re interested in taking a ride on the new D line, both the La Cienega/Wilshire and Fairfax/Wilshire stations are only a 15-minute walk from the heart of West Third! You can pair a visit to West Third Street with a stop at the nearby redesigned LACMA! Or to The Original Farmers Market!

Anyway, here’s my guide to West Third Street:

Shop

• eggy: my go-to children’s clothing store whenever I need a baby gift. They have the cutest selection and always have a full sale rack in the back.

• Noodle Stories: eclectic and funky women’s clothing shop. It feels like a shop you’d find in the Village in NYC. If you need help picturing the vibe, Nancy Silverton shops here.

• Bead Boutique: such a fun store to go to with friends to create your own jewelry. They have hundreds of beads, charms, and chains to choose from.

• August: multi-designer fine jewelry shop with a large following. A favorite from Madeline Isaacs’ guide on Scout LA (below)!

• Douglas Fir: one of my (and my dad’s and husband’s) favorite men’s shops in Los Angeles. I buy their men’s belts for myself and have extra holes punched.

• OK: on every list of the best gift and design shops in LA. I particularly like their coffee table book and jewelry selection.

• Allan Jeffries Framing: a renowned framing shop in LA. Pricy AF, but they have an unmatched selection and do an incredible job if you have something special you want framed.

• The Hidden Rivet: curated vintage clothing.

• Les Tien: the luxury leisure ware brand’s first storefront.

Wellness

• Heated Room: a go-to heated yoga, sculpt, and mat pilates studio in the area. The space is gorgeous, and the instructors are great. There’s a reformer room in the back for small private sessions.

• Head Spas:

  • Yolu: a relaxing and immersive head spa from one of Japan’s top haircare brands.

  • Blow Me Away: a salon offering a Japanese head spa experience focused on deep cleansing (scalp cameras included for before and afters).

• Lymphatic by Siane: considered one of the best Brazilian lymphatic massages in LA.

• Natural Pilates: my favorite reformer pilates class in LA when in need of an ass kicking.

• Elev8: infrared sauna studio.

• Capsule: I wrote about Capsule in one of my first Substack posts. They’re the best modern pharmacy in LA, and if you aren’t using them to get your drugs delivered, you’re doing something wrong!

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Eat & Drink

• Neighborhood: Fittingly named, this is the neighborhood coffee spot with plenty of outdoor space to hang out with a friend or bring a laptop.

• Jones on Third: she made West Third Street famous, and continues to dominate the block. This is an LA institution, even though I’m a hater (not a fan of their menu). They recently expanded the space so there’s more seating than ever.

• Miznon: the West Third location opened earlier this year. I love the rotisserie chicken.

• Izakaya: I’m team Sushi Fumi up the block, but this is a solid option if you want somewhere that takes reservations.

• Carla Cafe: the Tuna Chop sandwich really is that good.

• Sockerbit: for your Swedish candy fix.

• Takagi: coffee and soufflé pancakes from Osaka. The lines here are insane.

• Sticky Rice: a vibey Thai spot (with Echo Park and DTLA locations) that serves wine and beer.

• Regalade: a new French bistro from the same owners as Oste (next door).

• Little Door: an upscale (and expensive) Mediterranean restaurant. The interior is gorgeous and feels worlds away from Los Angeles. Perfect date night spot if you’re trying to impress.

• El Carmen: the intimate neighborhood Mexican joint with a great bar, fun vibe, and really solid food.

• Melanie Wine: my favorite restaurant in the area. A true neighborhood spot with excellent French leaning cuisine, a great wine list, easy last minute reservations (or walk-ins), and they accept inKind if you’re into restaurant rewards like I am :)

• Ecco un poco: a small batch Italian gelato shop.

Familiar Favorites

• Magnolia Bakery, Drybar, Le Labo, La La Land, Credo Beauty, Warby Parker, Verve, Sweetgreen, Sweetfin, Bacari, Bluestone Lane, Sugared & Bronzed, Bacio di Latte

Here’s a map to save for when you visit!

WEST THIRD STREET MAP

For other walks and street guides published on Scout LA, check out these letters:

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In today’s newsletter: Mingle’s Coconuts, Loreto, and The Eames House.

Mingle’s CocoLatte

Mingle’s Coconuts is a family owned & operated coconut vendor that operates at farmers markets across LA and Ventura counties. They pride themselves on their never frozen, plant-based, premium Thai coconut products. A variety of delicious items grace their stands, from freshly cut whole Thai coconuts and spirulina coconut smoothies, to coconut horchatas and chia cups with fresh coconut and fruit. None of their products contain added sugars, fillers, or artificial sweeteners.

The crème de la crème at Mingle’s, though, is their CocoLatte.

It’s a blend of organic coffee brewed with fresh coconut water and coconut meat, served cold. When shaken before drinking, it turns into a rich, naturally sweet coffee coconut smoothie unlike any you’ve tried before. The natural fats from the coconut prevent the jitters I sometimes get from coffee, something I appreciate as a mostly decaf coffee drinker.

Though enjoyable year round, these summer months are especially ideal for a refreshing CocoLatte to keep cool while shopping at the market. I catch Mingle’s Coconuts at the Hollywood or Brentwood Sunday markets, but here’s a full list of their weekly locations.

Loreto

One of the greatest privileges of living in LA is having access to seemingly endless options for experiencing new food, and good food at that. With dining out becoming a luxury, where I choose to eat out the one to two nights a week I budget for it has become even more of a thoughtful decision. The choices I make around these meals are in constant competition: should I try to snag a reservation at a new hot spot, or do I leave room to stumble spontaneously into a spot that looks great? Should I plan a day around eating somewhere a healthy distance from home that I’ve been wanting to try, or return to favorites I know consistently deliver?

Having lived in NYC and now LA, my standards, and the costs associated with dining out, are high. It takes a lot for me to return to a restaurant. The ones I do visit time and time again earn that distinction with no hesitation. They are steady in their delivery of service, quality, and vibe, making them worth the drive, cost, and planning.

Loreto is one such place for me.

I love its secluded location in Frogtown, and how quickly it transports you to a meal in Mexico, with the colorful facade, incredible mariscos, and when you sit outside, tables on dirt surrounded by impressive gardens of cacti and desert plants.

If I’m drinking, I order their michelada, a delicious clamato, citrus, salsa, and Pacifico blend. The biggest challenge for me is always saving enough room for the Pescado Zarandeado, a butterflied branzino served with beans, rice, quesadillas, avocado, and homemade salsas. It’s a must for the main course. I work backward from there.

The soft shell crab tacos are a favorite of mine (I included the dish in my first ever Substack post as one of my favorite bites of 2025!). Their take on esquites, with shrimp and lobster mayo, never fails to impress. The bang bang shrimp tostada is a sweet and spicy delight. And to start I always have either an aguachile or ceviche. Both are delicious, so choose based on your tolerance for spice. The sashimi to start is also always a good idea.

The space both inside and outside lends itself well to celebratory meals with friends or family, and I think it’s one of the greatest restaurants in the city to hold a special event. When I got engaged, we had a small, informal gathering outdoors. It would be a beautiful, intimate wedding venue.

Loreto is always on my lists of favorites in the city, and in a contest for my repeat patronage, it continues to come out on top.

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Eames

My husband grew up in the Palisades, and we spent time there almost every week before the fires. Despite passing by it probably hundreds of times, I lost my Case Study House virginity at The Eames House just a few weeks ago.

The house, which only narrowly escaped the Palisades Fire, closed for five months following the disaster to tend to the significant smoke damage it endured; no small task for a structure that has an entire foundation, community, and group of world-renowned scholars devoted to its conservation.

The home was designed, built, and completed in the 1940s as part of The Case Study House Program, launched as a solution to the lack of affordable, modern homes in high demand following World War II. Its architectural and historical significance has earned the Eames House the designation of a National Historic Landmark.

The three acre property is set back from the street and sits atop a bluff with an unobstructed Pacific Ocean backdrop. The Eameses lived and worked in the home and studio, which are built of steel and glass panels of varying colors, tints, and textures. Though we weren’t able to enter the home, peeking through the glass reveals a sanctuary stuck in time, preserved with the authentic furniture, decorations, and layout as during the husband and wife’s lifetimes.

Prices of self-guided outdoor tours have increased significantly in recent years, and an indoor tour is thousands of dollars (yes, you read that right: $2,500 for up to four people, to be exact). I hope the foundation can work to make the celebrated property more accessible for all to experience in the near future.

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In today’s newsletter: a visit to the Mar Vista Tract, a meal at San Damián, and an update on my search for the best Danish rye in LA. Plus, some things newsworthy.

MAR VISTA TRACT

In an enclave of Mar Vista that’s known for Beethoven Market more than anything else, there exists a stretch of under appreciated streets designated as the city’s first post-World War II historic district.

Around fifty mid-century modern homes in a small pocket of the neighborhood (map linked) share designs by architect Gregory Ain. Developed in the 1940s, the cohesive homes offer optimized open floor plans, indoor-outdoor living, and the ultra-modern, versatile design that Neutra and Schindler made popular around the same time. The goal of the project was to create more housing in the area for a growing number of middle class families while bringing modern design to a wider audience.

The historic designation requires any renovations be approved by a board, and for the street facing facades to be relatively unchanged. The magnolia tree lined streets further add to the district’s uniform feel, and even on a short walk around the blocks, the sense of community is evident, with kids knocking on friends’ doors to play and neighbors chatting in their yards.

Though the area feels like a hidden gem, the homes have landed profiles in premier publications such as Architectural Digest and Monocle. As I’m sure you can imagine, while the homes don’t go on sale often, when they do, they sell fast.

SAN DAMIÁN

Though summer doesn’t officially start until Sunday, the late sunsets, hot temperatures, and end of the LAUSD school year mean most have already mentally kicked off the season. It’s time to enjoy cool ocean breezes, long days at the beach, and all that the quintessential Cali lifestyle has to offer.

When it comes to an ideal summer dinner, I can’t think of anything better than some light and refreshing mariscos. Luckily, San Damián has entered the Westside’s restaurant scene just in time.

The seafood focused sister restaurant to DTLA’s Damián, and newest addition to Enrique Olvera’s Casamata group, opened on Abbott Kinney at the beginning of the month in the old Atla space.

Vibe wise, it’s a great date night spot. It’s not a casual mariscos truck or outdoor joint (which I tend to prefer). These are fancy mariscos. The interiors are simple and modern, the bar is spacious with a menu full of strong, unique cocktails, and the crowd is young and noticeably very good looking. It’s also conveniently located for other activities, like a stroll along Abbott Kinney or the beach.

Food wise, stick to the seafood. The tuna tostada was excellent, with buttery chunks of tuna complemented by sweet leeks. Another favorite was the prawns, juicy from the absolutely delicious garlic and spice sauce they are served in. For a main we tried the generously portioned grilled fish, which was flaky and simply prepared to perfection with oil, salt, citrus, and peppers. It’s worth noting that the aguachile to start was a big miss for me, which was disappointing, to say the least, at a Mexican seafood restaurant.

I’m looking forward to the opening of their daytime concept in the coming weeks, which will be an outdoor, casual complement to the elevated evening experience. I think it will be a go-to for many in the area all summer.

Danish Rye Bread

If you’ve been following along in my quest for the best Danish rye bread in LA (see more here and here), I had ranked Jyan Isaac as my current favorite, with Copenhagen Pastry as a distant second. After several unsuccessful attempts due to it selling out, I’ve now finally tried the Gjusta sprouted rye loaf and…drumroll please…Gjusta is now #1 in my rankings for a few reasons:

• I prefer how the seeds are distributed in the Gjusta loaf: dense inside, and not as seed-coated on the loaf’s crust as with Jyan Isaac’s.

• The Gjusta loaf is less wide, which I prefer since I enjoy the bread open-faced rather than as a sandwich.

• I was able to purchase a half loaf at Gjusta Grocer, which is a plus, considering their half loaf is around the same price as the Jyan Isaac full loaf. Classic.

Next on my list to try is the Sqirl version, which according to their online ordering is available to purchase and bring home in half loaf form. Oat Bakery's, though not in LA, is also on the list.

NEWSWORTHY

I’m enjoying perusing the LA Times list of dining experiences that define living in LA.

Last World Hospitality hired Kate Ludwig of as their Director of Events + Marketing. I love Last World’s restaurants and have been admiring Kate’s events and food taste from afar. Excited to see what they do together!

Palisade’s Village will reopen in August.

The Cut published Rosa Park’s (of Francis Gallery on Melrose) Guide to Museums in LA.

Jenn Harris wrote a glowing review of Echo Park’s Henrietta. I can’t wait to go for dinner (I’ve only tried their lunch).

Pizzeria Sei’s new location is officially opening June 24!

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Oh and…let’s go Knicks and USA soccer.

In today’s newsletter: Bad Roman, a hike at Topanga State Park, and my pre-virality review of Asadero (aka Tacos Entre Amigos). Plus, some things newsworthy.

BAD ROMAN

I’m not going to lie — when I was invited to dine at the newly opened LA outpost of Bad Roman, I was hesitant. My first impressions of the restaurant, from the Beverly Hills address and over the top decor, to the dishes designed for social media virality, didn’t land it high on my list.

I was quickly proven wrong.

First, the vibes are infectious. On Friday night, there wasn’t an open table or bar seat in sight. The crowd is lively and mixed in terms of age and occasion. It’s definitely not a sterile, sleepy, homogenous Beverly Hills crowd. People are having fun. I’d even say this is a restaurant that should be categorized as “a fun night out.” The music, very generous pours, and creative menu contribute to the high energy.

The second thing that stands out is the service. It’s outstanding, New York City level hospitality. The servers and staff are engaging and attentive, and the meal is paced perfectly. It’s not super often in LA I say to myself, “that was great service,” and it’s absolutely the case here.

The absolute star of the show, though, is dessert. Yes, I am skipping right to dessert. I thoroughly enjoyed the pepperoni cup appetizer with homemade ranch as well as the pastas (I’d order the lobster pasta flambéed tableside next time), but foodwise, the dessert is the standout. I ordered both the lemon cheesecake and the chocolate tart with olive oil ice cream, and both are easily among the top restaurant desserts I’ve had in LA.

If you’re only ordering one, get the lemon cheesecake. It’s one of a kind, with a white chocolate outer layer molded into the shape of a lemon, with a cheesecake filling that’s perfectly creamy, citrusy, and (obviously) addictive.

Bad Roman should come to mind for your next indulgent night out.

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MUSCH TRAIL TO EAGLE ROCK

While some may find that June gloom gets old quickly this time of year on the Westside, it’s my favorite weather for hiking, which can become unbearable in the summer sun regardless of an ocean breeze.

Last weekend, I took advantage of an overcast morning and hiked Musch Trail to Eagle Rock at Topanga State Park. It’s a loop trail that when done clockwise, takes you on a meandering natural path on the way up. You’ll pass wildflowers, have a good amount of natural tree cover, and enjoy sweeping views of the Santa Monica Mountains.

The last 15 minutes are the steepest, and you can choose to make a quick diversion from the loop to see Eagle Rock, a spectacular sandstone peak that’s worth the extra time. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb up and explore the hidden caves.

The trek back to the parking lot is along a fire road, where the scenery opens up to meadows and Pacific Ocean views at points depending on the clarity of the day. We encountered other hikers, but the trail was peaceful and quiet.

For a more comfortable experience wear long pants and hiking shoes, as some parts of Musch Trail are overgrown with brush. Round trip, the hike took about an hour and a half at a quick pace. Parking is $3 per hour, and I was quite excited about the clean bathrooms in the lot.

Asadero (aka Tacos Entre Amigos)

Back in February, I wrote about my stellar experience dining at Tacos Entre Amigos. Fast forward to today: a glowing Infatuation review calling Asadero “LA’s most exciting new taco stand,” along with spots in their 25 Best Tacos in LA, The Hit List, and The Best Things we Ate in May lists, helped turn the taco stand into a viral sensation. I’m resurfacing my February review to (re)share my take on the now trending spot.

One thing about me is I really dislike ordering in. I’d almost always rather cook, sit somewhere, or pick up food nearby. Expensive, cold, soggy food is not worth the long wait for delivery — especially when I’m hungry. And if it’s the weekend, I like to get out. So when Saturday night rolled around and our plans were cancelled, it was the perfect occasion for some last minute street tacos.

To Tacos Entre Amigos we went. The LA Food Podcast has mentioned the stand several times, and it’s rated five stars on Google, so I figured we were in for a treat. We pulled up to what looked like a typical taco stand setup in a large Pavilions parking lot off a busy street. But not much else was typical.

We were greeted by the co-owner, Oliver, who gave us first-timers a rundown of the menu: The flank steaks are fresh (never frozen), cooked in fat (never seed oils), and seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika only (never industrial seasonings). The blue corn tortillas are made from scratch, and gluten free.

I laughed to myself, wondering if he used the same pitch on everyone or if he was profiling me as a basic, health conscious, white girl. Either way, I didn’t care. He was charming, clearly passionate, and judging by the happy diners around us, the high-quality ingredients weren’t sacrificing flavor. In addition to the carne asada, we put in orders for al pastor.

The flank steak was thrown on a charcoal grill, made to order. We sat at their ample table space and waited, thankful that we had beat the rush as a line started to form. Despite cooking the meat live, our food was ready quickly. The toppings and salsa selections were fresh and varied.

To no one’s surprise, the food was drool-worthy. The steak was tender, flavorful, and smoky from the open flame. The al pastor was perfectly salted and charred. The fluffy blue corn tortillas rival any you’d get in Mexico City.

My husband was still hungry (you’re likely noticing a trend if you’ve been reading Scout LA) and opted for a “dessert” steak quesadilla, in which they layered cheese on top of the steak and pressed it into a white tortilla. The result: hot, cheesy, crispy, perfection (you know what I’ll be craving during my next hangover).

You come here for the steak tacos, though.

Next time you’re down to try an exceptional taco spot, head to Tacos Entre Amigos. You don’t even need to scramble for cash — they accept Apple Pay. Like I said, not your typical street-side taco stand.

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NEWSWORTHY

• Did you know you can stay in Case Study House 26? Located in Marin County, it’s an ideal Northern California getaway for architecture and design lovers.

• I’m a wagyu snob after coming back from Japan. No, I don’t need a new $99 Petit Trois “wagyu” burger—The Big Mec is already perfect. I also don’t need a wagyu cheesesteak from Sonny’s. I’ll stick to their insane pizza.

• Goodboybob will take over coffee operations at the Deus Ex Machina Cafe in Venice.

• I enjoyed reading about Alpine Courtyard’s collaborative business model. The culinary focused development project houses top restaurants such as Perilla and Baby Bistro and supports them with programs that enable lower startup costs. LA needs more landlords invested in the success of their tenants and surrounding communities.

• Serious question: would you join a members club for their shower head? My answer is…no.

• Wilde’s continues to brilliantly execute their partnerships strategy.

The song stuck in my head this week:

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I’m back in LA after an incredible two and a half week honeymoon in Japan. Though we covered a lot of ground, it felt like we only scratched the surface of all there is to experience.

The culture. The food. The shopping. The nature. The toilets that open, flush, and play privacy bird noises for you. Japan is truly special.

There are endless recommendations and guides on Japan right now. Planning can be really overwhelming. I’m not going to pretend to be an expert — this was my first trip to Japan. That said, if you generally trust my takes and taste, there’s good stuff in here.

In today’s newsletter, I’ll detail only the highlights of our journey, from food, temples and shopping, to hotels and art, as well as tips I wish I’d known going in.

TOKYO

Vibes: a huge (but easy to navigate), clean, efficient, and modern mega-city, with amazing food, shopping, street style, and culture.

STAY

Trunk Hotel (Yoyogi Park)

The rooms are small but efficient, the rooftop pool and hot tub are game changers for when you’re exhausted or jet-lagged in the late afternoons, there’s a subway stop nearby, and Tomigaya was one of my favorite neighborhoods in all of Tokyo.

AREAS

West

• Tomigaya: boutiques, cafes, restaurants, bars, awesome young vibe.

• Nishihara: cafes and shops, residential feel.

• Daikanyama: great higher-end boutiques.

• Nakameguro: great shopping and cafes along the Meguro River.

• Ebisu: local eateries and bars, quiet backstreets.

• Aoyama: branches off the main Omotesando avenue into a more secretive, upscale vibe.

• Harajuku: Cat St and surrounding streets have some cute boutiques and vintage.

• Shimokitazawa: up and coming feel, lots of secondhand stores.

East

• Asakusa: home to Sensoji Temple, Kappabashi “Kitchen Town” (a street of specialty kitchen supply shops), and Kuramae (a hip, artsy neighborhood).

• Ginza: suggest visiting at nighttime once the stores are lit up.

• Jimbocho: used book store town, didn’t make it here but wanted to.

FOOD

I’m only listing my absolute top recommendations!

Coffee

• Les Jeux Grenier: smoking indoors, cash only

• Cafe Rostro

• Nadoya No Katte

Breakfast

• Path

Bakery

• Le Ressort

Lunch

• Tsukiji Market: specifically, Seagen

• Honkaku Mapo Tofu Kakan

Dinner

• Tatemichiya: smoking indoors, order the special pork and chicken skewers. Top three meal of our whole trip.

• Seirenkan: simple, perfect pizza for when you’re sick of Japanese food.

Dessert

• Cafe Rostra: coffee soft serve

• Cremia: any soft serve

Snacks

• Takashimaya food hall: grapes, tuna nigiri, roast chicken

• Convenience Stores

Drinks

• These

• Ginza Music Bar

• Fresh lemon sours were our drink of the trip (Tatemichiya, recommended for dinner above, has the best ones).

SHOPPING

Below are some favorites from our time bopping around Tokyo. I gravitated towards boutiques with items crafted in Japan. This article is great for an overview of shopping vibes throughout Tokyo. There’s some overlap in our lists, but not a lot.

Clothing

• H Beauty & Youth

• Beams

• Dover Street Market

• Coverchord

• 1LDK

• Visvim

• The Library

• Kapital

• The North Face Purple Label

• Nigel Cabourn

• Kagure

• Nanamica

• Steps

• Ragtag (secondhand designer)

• Jam (vintage and consignment)

Men’s Only (a lot of things in Japan can be unisex, but these had no women’s section or sizing)

• Style Department

• Okura

• Best Packing Store

• Front 11201

• Ciota

• Seven by Seven

• Lost and Found

Home

• Pejite

• APFR

• Reload

• Vacant

Knives

• Tsubaya

• Musashi

Books & General Stores

• Shibuya Publishing

• T-Site

• Monocle Shop

• Travelers Notebook

• UNBY General Store

Discount Chain Store

• Don Quijote

CULTURE AND ACTIVITIES

Stroll, eat, & drink

• Shibuya Crossing at night

• Yoyogi Park

• Meiji Jingu

• Imperial Palace

• Sensoji Temple

• Tsukiji Fish Market

• Jimbocho Book Town

• Kappabashi Kitchen Town

• Nonbei Yokocho “Drunkard’s Alley” or Golden Gai

Art & Architecture:

• Nezu Museum

• Art Aquarium Museum: I didn’t make it here, but a local told me it’s better and less crowded than teamLab.

• Prada Aoyama

• Tiffany & Hermes Ginza (at night)

• In general, notice the buildings around you. Tokyo is an amazing city for architecture!

MAP HERE

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KISO VALLEY

Vibes: A slow and rural escape with stunning nature and history. Think mountains, rivers, waterfalls, gorges, preserved Edo-period architecture, and traditional ryokan stays with onsens.

STAY

Nagataki

For an authentic and traditional ryokan experience. You’ll sleep on a futon with a buckwheat pillow and try traditional, high quality Japanese kaiseki meals. The owners are amazing hosts, the bungalows are private and surrounded by serene nature, and the onsen looks out into the forest.

Byaku Narai

For a luxury ryokan experience in a converted sake brewery in Narai, a post town along the Nakasendo Trail. The stay, town, and food are favorites of the trip. This place is special.

AREAS

These are post towns on the Nakasendo trail.

• Narai

• Tsumago

• Magome

FOOD

All have very local, farm-to-table ingredients sourced from the Kiso Valley.

• Otokichi: great tempura

• Hataage Soba Genji: unbelievable soba noodles, which the area is known for

• Kura: restaurant at Byaku Narai, top three meal of our trip.

CULTURE

• Nakasendo Trail: we hiked Magome to Tsumago

  • Odaki and Medaki waterfalls are seen along the hike

• Kakizore and Atera Gorges: gorgeous emerald water

• Lacquerware: the area is globally renowned for its lacquerware and multigenerational craftsmen.

MAP HERE

KYOTO

Vibes: a smaller, more manageable city than Tokyo, divided by the Kamo River, with shrines and temples seemingly around every corner, great food and shopping, and noticeably more tourists and crowds at sights than in Tokyo.

STAY

The Celestine Hotel

We used credit card points to book this hotel. The rooms are comfortable and spacious and the staff is helpful. It’s located in Higashiyama, convenient to many temples, restaurants, and historical streets. It’s not too far from the Kamo River, which made exploring the city pretty easy.

AREAS

You’ll likely spend most of your time in Higashiyama and Downtown Kyoto.

• Higashiyama (East): historical feel, lantern-lit streets, geisha, traditional machiya townhouses, sightseeing.

• Downtown (Central): bustling at night with many bars and restaurants, and home to the most shopping, from malls to aesthetic boutiques.

• Arashiyama (Northwest): located at the base of the mountains and famous for the bamboo grove, river cruises, and temples in the trees. Best for a day trip versus a base.

Other areas with specific sightseeing stops:

• South: the Fushimi Inari gates are here. Go early.

• North: home to the picturesque Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) temple. Go early.

FOOD

Coffee

• Cité

• Coffee Base Nashinoki

Tea

• Yugen

• Toka

Bakery

• Aman Dacotan

Snacks

• Pickle on a stick

Breakfast

• Curry&Tempura Koisus

Lunch

• Hikiniku to Come: in the top three meals of the trip.

• Men-ya Inoichi Hanare

• Nishiki Market

Dinner

• Gyoza Hohei

• Hitomi

SHOPPING

Home & General

• Arts & Science

• Wakabaya

• Kungyokudo

• POJ Studio

• Maana Living

• Pottery Tanuki

• Kyo Amahare

• Yugen Gallery

• D&Department

Boutiques

• Sumer

• Nest Robe

• T.T

• Otsu Kei (Men’s)

• Y&Sons (Men’s)

• Edwin (Men’s)

• Graphpaper (Men’s)

CULTURE

I honestly hated the experience of visiting the touristy sights in Kyoto. They are beyond crowded and unenjoyable in my opinion. I only listed ones I thought were worth it (but only during off hours).

Temples

• Otagi Nenbatsuji: my favorite temple. Thousands of carved buddha statues.

• Ryosokuin: I signed up to do a self-guided zazen (meditation) before the temple opens to the public. I loved this experience.

• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Temple): go early to line up before opening.

• Fushimi Inari: crack of dawn or after dark to avoid crowds.

Places to Stroll

• Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka: cobblestone pedestrian streets. Go early to avoid unbearable crowds.

• Philosophers Path: peaceful walk along a canal.

• Kamo River: Kyoto’s main river, with paths for running, reading, eating, and enjoying the sunset.

• Takase River: a smaller river with a more secluded pathway in Central Kyoto with cute cafes and a calmer atmosphere.

• Saga Torimoto: historic street to walk in Arashiyama.

• Hanamikoji St: cobblestone street lined with traditional homes in Gion.

• Suirokaku Aqueduct: an awesome structure on the grounds of Nanzenji temple.

• Nishiki Market: food market in Central Kyoto where you can wander from stand to stand trying different foods.

• Kyoto National Garden: beautiful park and gardens surrounding the Imperial Palace.

Architecture

• Kawai Kanjiro’s House: a must visit for architecture and design lovers.

• Face House: a playful facade that’s fun to pass by.

MAP HERE

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SETO ISLANDS

STAY

Benesse House

We stayed here when we spent a night in Naoshima, an island known for its contemporary art museums. It books far in advance given limited accommodations on the island, prime ocean views, and exclusive access to view the Benesse Museum and partner galleries at night after typical viewing hours.

Guntu

This was the splurge of a lifetime and worth every penny. Guntu is a floating, luxury ryokan that cruises the Seto Inland Sea. The experience is unparalleled, from the design and onsen that offer sweeping sea views from every angle, to the fresh caught fish delivered to the boat each day by local fishermen, and every detail in between.

FOOD

• Kinosaki Udon: Naoshima sits in the Kagawa Prefecture, well known for its udon. Get the garlic broth. The noodles are chewy and delicious.

• Guntu Omakase: best sushi I’ve ever had, hands down.

CULTURE

I’m listing only the favorite museums and points of interest on Naoshima. It was fun to rent electric bikes at the port and explore the island, bouncing between museums and art installations.

• Chichu Museum: my favorite. Reserve in advance.

• Lee Ufan

• Valley Gallery

• Benesse:

  • Pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama

  • Seaside Gallery

  • Benesse House Museum

• Red Pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama

• Art House Project: Minamidera. Need to reserve in advance.

MAP HERE

GENERAL TIPS

• Add a Suica pass to your Apple Wallet and pre-load it with a few thousand yen.

  • You can use this for public transportation and purchases from convenience stores and vending machines.

• Take out cash from a convenience store ATM.

  • 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart all have ATMs and have locations everywhere (literally) throughout the city.

• Pack light, and bring an empty suitcase.

  • The shopping is incredible. Our empty carry-on was full for our return.

• Carry your passport when shopping around.

  • A lot of stores offer a 10% tax exemption for tourists on eligible purchases.

• Wear sneakers.

  • You are going to walk a lot. Comfortable shoes are key.

• Download Google Translate.

  • English is limited, even in major cities.

• Read up on etiquette and cultural norms.

  • The Japanese are reserved, orderly, and polite. Be self-aware. Line up when getting onto the subway. Take your shoes off in dressing rooms. Learn how to say a few common phrases. Etc.

• Pack or purchase snacks to keep on hand.

  • For early morning starts, train rides, or when you’re bonking out from your step count.

• Have a high level plan.

  • In the cities, I liked having a rough outline of areas I wanted to visit each day, with some points of interest at each. This ensured a stress-free start to the morning: we woke up with an idea of where to go and how to get there.

• But let your plans be flexible.

  • Exploring slowly versus rushing from place to place, especially in Tokyo. Don’t smush too many things into one day.

• Lots of cafes and shops open later.

  • Most cafes don’t open until 9am or 10am. Most shops don’t open until 11am-12pm. Plan your mornings accordingly.

• Give yourself time to rest.

  • A long lunch. Chill time before dinner. Onsen time. Whatever it is, you’ll need it.

• Ask a local for their recommendations.

  • Some of our favorite spots were ones recommended by waiters, shop owners, and other locals we met along the way. The social media algorithm is enticing, but locals know best.

• Pack a portable charger.

  • Between Google Maps, Google Translate, and taking photos, your battery drains fast.

• Try something different.

  • Vending machine coffee and orange juice, bright and colorful street-side pachinkos and claw machine game centers, conveyer belt sushi… raw meat and eggs. Get out of your comfort zone!

The song stuck in my head this week:

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Madeline Isaacs is a Los Angeles based stylist with a background assisting Dani Michelle, alongside experience working with other stylists across celebrity, editorial, and brand projects. Now independently represented by The Wall Group, she focuses on event dressing, everyday street style, and building elevated capsule wardrobes. Her approach is rooted in creating looks that feel intentional, effortless, and personal.

You didn’t start out in your career as a stylist. How did you come to the decision to shift careers?

I’ve always been interested in fashion and clothing, but I was equally drawn to film, television, and entertainment. My very first job out of college was working as a costume assistant on a TV show because, at the time, it felt like the perfect combination of both worlds. I quickly realized it wasn’t for me, though, and I thought I wanted something a bit more structured professionally. I continued pursuing film because I didn’t want the degree and experience I had gained to go to waste.

It wasn’t until the height of COVID that I realized I wasn’t interested in continuing to grow within the film industry. Fashion was always a huge part of my life. I loved putting outfits together and thought a lot about clothing. Most of my days were spent online shopping for friends and family, pulling looks together.

I had followed stylists on Instagram for years, and one day it just clicked that this was what I should be doing. I started cold emailing and DMing stylists I admired in both LA and New York, and that’s ultimately how I got my foot in the door.

How did you meet Dani and what was it like working for her to start out?

One of the very first people I emailed was Dani Michelle. She posted that she was looking for a new assistant to join her team, and I immediately reached out. I actually didn’t hear back from her for about six months, and during that time I started freelancing and assisting other stylists, which ended up being really valuable experience for me early on.

Eventually, I heard back from Dani and I went to trial with her. She offered me a full-time position on her team, which was a huge turning point for me. Working for her in the beginning was incredibly fast paced and demanding in the best way possible. I learned very quickly how much work goes into making styling look effortless. It really gave me a strong foundation and shaped the way I approach styling today.

What are the pros and cons of being an LA-based stylist as opposed to being based elsewhere?

To me, a major benefit of being a stylist in LA is having a car. My car is filled to the brim almost every day with pickups, returns, and clothing racks, so I genuinely can’t imagine doing this job here without one. The logistics are such a huge part of the work, especially in a city as spread out as Los Angeles. Also, for any last minute crisis, having my car is a lifesaver.

That being said, I’m in New York a lot because I have clients there, and you just make it work. The workflow naturally becomes more messenger-based, and I have a NY-based assistant to support.

A lot of fashion business still happens in New York, especially because so many brands are headquartered either there or in Europe, so there’s a strong industry presence and access point in NYC.

At the same time, great clothing exists everywhere. A huge part of my job is sourcing from all over the world, whether that’s through showrooms, vintage dealers, archives, independent designers, or online.

How would you describe people’s styles in LA compared to NY?

LA tends to feel a bit more relaxed and effortless compared to New York. People in LA generally dress with more ease because of the lifestyle and weather, whereas New York fashion can feel more polished and trend-driven. Neither is better. They just have very different energies.

If someone reading this is interested in becoming a stylist, what advice would you give? What are some of the unsexy parts of the job to be aware of?

The best advice I could give is to assist a stylist. Spend a day, a week, or a month really seeing how it all works and shadowing a team before deciding if it’s for you. From the outside, styling can look incredibly glamorous, but the reality is that so much of the job is logistical, physical, and happening behind the scenes.

There are many unsexy parts of the job: working long hours, managing returns, carrying garment bags, organizing racks, tracking samples, spending hours on end with UPS and FedEx customer service, steaming clothes, packing suitcases, lugging trunks through the airport, problem solving under pressure, and figuring out last-minute changes, to name a few :)

Tell us about a nightmare styling scenario.

A huge part of the job is being adaptable and staying calm when things inevitably don’t go according to plan. You can do 1,000,000 things right and one thing wrong, and it can feel like the end of the world.

I was overnight shipping a dress to a client who was supposed to wear it that night in New York. The plan had originally been for her to still be in Miami before heading to NYC, but what I had completely missed in a text exchange with her team was that they had actually left Miami early.

Instead of shipping the dress to their hotel in New York, I accidentally shipped it to Miami. By the time I realized what had happened, it was already too late — the package was out for delivery to a hotel they were no longer staying at, while the client was already in New York getting ready for the event that same night.

We basically had to go into full crisis mode and scramble to find a completely new look at the last minute. In hindsight, everything worked out fine, but in the moment it felt catastrophic.

Where can we find you?

Instagram:

@madelineisaacs

ShopMy:

https://shopmy.us/shop/misaacs

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Madeline’s Guide to Shopping in LA

VINTAGE:

Apparel

• Scout

• Recess

• What Goes Around Comes Around

• Resurrection (appointment only)

• Timeless Vixen

• The Kit Vintage

• The Dig

• Taste Studio

• The RealReal

• Aralda Vintage (appointment only)

• 194

• Varsity

Bridal

• Saturn Bridal by Transplant Vintage

• Happy Isles (appointment only)

• Tab Vintage (appointment only)

• Lily Et Cie

• Paper Bag Princess

NON-VINTAGE:

Basics:

• RLT

Clothing Boutiques:

• Mohawk General Store

• Teller

• Elyse Walker (Pacific Palisades) … when it re-opens soon

• Heist

• Capitol

Jeans:

• RLT (vintage and new)

• Denim by Orlee

• With love, lenny

Jewelry:

• Broken English

• August

• XIV Karats

• Platt Boutique

More LA based brands and stores Madeline loves:

• Claudent

• Made Some Sportswear

• Gil Rodriguez

Here is a Google Map of these locations for future reference <3

GOOGLE MAP

The song stuck in my head this week:

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In today’s newsletter: two nut butters I’ve been gatekeeping and maybe the best coffee I’ve had in LA.

NUT BUTTERS

Magee’s

My love for peanut butter comes from my mom. For as long as I can remember, her day has started with a cup of coffee, a banana, and peanut butter. All are taken very seriously.

If, at 9pm, she notices there isn’t enough half and half for her coffee the next morning, she drives to 7-Eleven to get it.

If there is only one banana left, she hides it the night before so no one can get to it in the morning before her (savage, I know).

If you use the peanut butter, it needs to go right back in the fridge. The PB should only have one ingredient, peanuts. Maybe salt, too.

Clearly, there’s no Skippy or Jif in the house. Before the plethora of healthy peanut butter brands infiltrated the grocery aisles, my mom was bringing home the fresh roasted peanut butter (peanuts she’d put through the machine herself) from the health food store in town.

All this to say, I was raised to have high standards for peanut butter.

So when I moved to LA, walking distance from The Original Farmers Market at The Grove, I was immediately intrigued by Magee’s.

Magee’s opened its original location alongside the opening of Grand Central Market over a century ago. It went on to become the first non-farmers market stand at The Grove, and is the longest standing tenant there today.

I knew it was legit as soon as I saw the setup at their stand: a giant steel contraption (that’s apparently as old as Magee’s) churning peanuts live, with rows of their creations to choose from, including a two pound tub size option if you so choose (which, obviously, I do). They also encourage taste testing of the made-fresh-daily nut butters as if you’re at an ice cream shop, and dole out spoonfuls from peanut and cashew to pistachio and macadamia.

Their Krunchy Peanut Butter is my favorite. You can sense the difference in taste and consistency to a store bought (even single ingredient) peanut butter. It’s thick, rich, and intensely peanutty.

Obviously, it’s mom approved.

Arnett Farms

While, like my mom, I’m a peanut butter girl, I make an exception for the Arnett Farms almond butters. If my appreciation for Magee’s stems from its tradition and simplicity, with Arnett Farms, it’s the seasonal and creative flavor combinations that keep me coming back for more.

My all time favorite that I make sure to purchase before I run out is the jar of Cacao & Espresso almond butter. While not single ingredient, there are only a few: toasted almonds from the farm (stone ground by a granite wheel), unsweetened cacao nibs, fair trade espresso, and a bit of unrefined organic cane sugar (2g/serving).

The result is a delicious spoonful that’s perfect for when you’re craving a little something sweet. My go-to is adding it to Greek yogurt in the morning with some cinnamon, blueberries, and chia seeds.

I’ve also tried the coconut which, though lower in sugar, tastes richer and sweeter. Next on my list to try are the cinnamon and rosemary & vanilla. Look out for seasonal options like gingerbread around the holidays.

I purchase mine at the Hollywood Farmers’ Market. Find the flavor of your choosing at a farmers market near you.

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COFFEE

Hooked Venice

It’s not often I find myself in Venice between 8am-1pm Sunday through Thursday, so it took a bit of time for me to try Hooked Venice, the natural coffee concept operated within Dudley Market by Christopher “Nicely” Alameda.

Boy, am I glad I finally made it.

This is not your typical coffee shop experience. No wifi. No laptops allowed. A menu of $10+ drinks. Don’t let any of this scare you: This coffee is special. Meant to be enjoyed slowly and in the moment. It’s priceless.

Nicely takes his craft seriously. He’s an expert in the coffee space (serving coffee since 16, founder of the coffee program at Menotti’s, a latte art world champion) with an experimental approach to coffee unlike anything I’ve seen.

In a city with coffee on every corner, Hooked stands out in a major way. It’s an experience. Your drink will likely make you raise your eyebrows in awe when you take your first sip. If you’re lucky, you can learn a bit from Nicely in the process, too. His passion is palpable.

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The song stuck in my head this week:

In today’s newsletter: two grocery stores, Millard Canyon Falls, the Langham spa, and Betsy.

GROCERY STORES

My first thought walking into Laurel Supply is: this looks familiar. The hot, juice, and coffee bars, the nuts and candy in mason jars, the brands offered in the grocery aisles, the expensive skincare and supplement departments. I’m not sure it’s possible to have a first impression of the new high-end market on Santa Monica Blvd. in WeHo without comparing it to Erewhon (which, by the way, has a location three minutes down the road).

Laurel Supply is beautiful: the layout and design are superior to Erewhon. Open and spacious, with beautiful woodworking, including the ample outdoor booth seating that is still covered in sawdust on opening day. Brand spanking new. The dedicated above-ground parking is a plus, too.

As of week one, the prepared food portions are smaller and the options are less varied than at Erewhon. That said, everything I try is great: the salmon, coffee, juice, and chocolate chip cookie exceed my expectations.

There are murmurings of prices being slightly less at Laurel Supply than Erewhon, to which I say: at the end of the day, these are both luxury grocers that will cost you an arm and a leg to shop and eat at. Anyone expecting differently will be disappointed.

At this point, you probably have an idea of what the Laurel Supply scene (and it is a scene) is like. I wish they had leaned into being more unique.

Which brings me to another grocery store — my favorite — LA Grocery & Cafe. This is where I choose to spend the morning of my birthday.

LA Grocery is not a grocery chain or full service market, but rather part gourmet grocer, part local produce shop, part deli and cafe. It feels intimate, community forward, and mindful. Less focused on being fancy or Instagrammable, and more focused on well-sourced, high quality goods. Though it leans upscale, LA Grocery does strive to have a range of price points in the store.

The deli and cafe assortments are fresh, homemade, healthy, and thoughtful. It never feels like a mad rush to order. In general, the place just feels low key, calm, and special compared to a typical market experience.

So, Saturday morning, on my thirty-first birthday, I order the hazelnut coffee shake (banana, espresso, flaxseed, hazelnut, cacao nibs, Maldon salt, cinnamon, coconut milk, house made sprouted California almond milk), and am in heaven.

This is what my kind of market feels like.

MILLARD CANYON FALLS

Fueled up for the next stop on the birthday itinerary, we make our way to Altadena for a hike at Millard Canyon Falls.

The drive leads us through areas heavily impacted by the January 2025 Eaton Fire, and while jarring, it’s heartwarming to see many hope filled love letters to Altadena on signs hung throughout the community.

It’s worth noting that Chaney Trail Road, which usually leads to parking at the trailhead, is still closed following the fire. This adds a steep and sunny twenty-five minutes (each way). I welcome this, as the Millard Canyon Falls hike itself isn’t strenuous, and the added distance keeps the trail quiet. Start to finish, it takes about an hour and forty-five minutes.

The hike itself is a shaded, peaceful journey along a creek that requires frequent crossings. We are in sneakers and somehow avoid getting wet by hopping across on stones and logs. Definitely part of the fun, but also a hike that would benefit from a good waterproof shoe. The trail isn’t steep, but it is rocky and requires climbing and maneuvering at certain points.

It all culminates at a beautiful, strong waterfall and a perfect resting spot to plop down, cool off, snack up, and enjoy the view.

On the way down, minutes from the car, I notice gorgeous wild sunflowers, blooming once again.

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CHUAN SPA

Now it’s time to chill. The Langham in Pasadena is the perfect stop between our hike and dinner to unwind and wash up. Their day pass is a great option if, like us, you don’t want to pony up for a service. It grants access to a steam room, sauna, and hot tub to cycle between. Cold eucalyptus towels and fruit water are available to cool down. While the decor and design are a bit dated, I find everything to be clean and comfortable.

The day pass also gives access to the large and well equipped gym next to the spa. It does not give you access to the pools at the hotel, but we sneak in and they aren’t worth it anyway (lots of children, not very relaxing or aesthetic).

It’s worth taking a drive through the surrounding streets of The Langham. The Pasadena estates are dreamy, to say the least.

BETSY

And then there is Betsy. Altadena currently feels a bit eerie at night, dark and quiet, with much of the neighborhood still displaced.

But in the middle of the quiet rises a bustling sidewalk, a community center of sorts, keeping things lively amid the destruction.

This bustling sidewalk is home to Bar Betsy and Betsy, neighbors and sister concepts from Tyler Wells of All Time.

We’re a bit early for our dinner reservation at Betsy, so we start with some wine next door. Bar Betsy is a walk-in only wine bar (and cafe by day). My chilled red is delicious, the service is fantastic, and while we don’t eat, the food (burger, burrata salad, crudo, charcuterie) looks absolutely incredible. I will definitely be back during the day to try the raved about cinnamon buns and carrot tahini sandwich.

Dinner at Betsy is cozy and unrushed. The live-fire cooking and menu feel familiar to Dunsmoor, though Betsy is a little more relaxed and neighborhoody. The service is homey and attentive.

The yellowtail crudo to start is good, dressed with an olive oil, citrus, and tajin mixture. My favorite starter is a seasonal shaved snap pea salad, with peanuts, peppers, and parmesan tossed in a light vinaigrette. Delicious.

For mains we have the pork chop and the gnocchi. The meat is tender and flavorful from the fire. I love it. The gnocchi is interesting, with a crispy texture from the flames and served in a lemon poppy sauce. I can’t shake the feeling that I’m eating a lemon poppy muffin, and would prefer a different sauce, but I’m glad we try it.

We also order the cabbage to pair with our mains, and the simplicity of the charred flavor is wonderful.

I really love that the meal isn’t too heavy and the portions aren’t overkill. Until we order dessert. That puts us both over the edge, but is well worth it. The cobbler and the chocolate pot de crème are excellent.

A sweet ending to my birthday adventure.

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The song stuck in my head this week:

PSA #1: The recently opened Bristol Farms next to the Hollywood Farmers Market is both stunning and has 75-minute free parking with a purchase. Next time you’re circling the market for parking, remember reading this, buy The Cookie or something else you can’t get at the farmers market (cottage cheese?), and keep your Sunday stress free.

PSA #2: I guess you can’t cross post a co-authored newsletter on Substack, or maybe you can and I just can’t figure it out and Substack support won’t answer me. Either way, I want to make sure y’all don’t miss out on the post Juliette Sibley of Rare Medium and I worked on. We traded notes on the trends defining LA and NYC dining today. Have a read!

Rare Medium

The Trends Defining New York and LA Dining Right Now

People love to compare New York and Los Angeles dining scenes. It’s a bit overdone, often redundant (everyone knows Mexican food is better on the west coast), and usually misses the point. But, it’s also kind of fun because there are always small aspects that are ever-changing…

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4 months ago · 23 likes · Juliette Sibley and Scout Ziegler

In today’s (Westside leaning) newsletter: a great place for gifts and some recent casual eats. Plus, a few things newsworthy.

Scout LA

Scout LA encourages the exploration of places and spaces in Los Angeles and beyond.

By Scout Ziegler

TORTOISE GENERAL STORE

I wouldn’t say gifts are my love language, but I am a sucker for picking out presents, especially at unique shops sprinkled throughout the city. This weekend I picked out a birthday gift for a friend at Tortoise General Store. The store is full of very aesthetic versions of everyday items, most if not all of Japanese origin. Meticulously merchandised, thoughtfully curated, and sneakily large, this hidden gem showcases some truly unique pieces of art, jewelry, stationery, kitchenware, and more. There’s also a full sake fridge! It’s meant to be a slow shopping experience, where you can take your time perusing the shelves full of design-forward items. A welcome change from the one click online ordering we’re so used to today.

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EATS

• Petramale Pizza:

This NY style pizzeria operates out of the Venice Church parking lot on Friday’s only, 12-7. The plain pizza was really solid. Thin and crispy, just how I like it. I also tried the meatball and Greek pies, but personally felt simple is best here. The owner, Steve Petramale, started making pizza when his boxing gym shut down during COVID, and I love how he incorporates his past life into conveying the general information on their website. You can call in your order, which I respect — most pop-ups these days keep you waiting forever in line. Steve’s clearly a guy who looks out for his community.

Check out my thoughts on other East Coast style pizzerias, Sonny’s and Secret Pizza, below:

• Maple Block BBQ:

I was pleasantly surprised by the food at Maple Block in Culver City. If you’ve had actual Texas BBQ, this ain’t that, but it’s a great option on the Westside. The chicken and ribs were my favorite meats, though I do prefer them a bit saucier than they were served. When it comes to sides, the beans had a kick and ample flavor and the mac and cheese was rich, cheesy, and addictive. But the star? The cornbread, which, dare I say, rivals Hatchet Hall’s and Dunsmoor’s. I really enjoyed its crispy edges and the corn kernels throughout. The butter don’t hurt, either.

• Heavy Handed Soft Serve:

It’s just sick. What else can I say? I’m an ice cream hound and their creamy, perfect swirls are a treat. They offer chocolate, vanilla, or a swirl, and a variety of dip options including chocolate, butterscotch, funfetti, or cookies and cream. Add it to your list for the next time you’re craving a cone or cup.

• Very Thai:

My mall growing up was nothing like Century City mall. It was indoors (because, NY), with low-mid-tier brands, and the food options were chains like Panera Bread and TGI Fridays. Whether or not you enjoy spending time there, it’s hard to argue with the fact that Century City is elite when it comes to overall mall experiences.

Eating at Century City is never my first choice, but it has its time and place: work dinners, pre or post movie bites, a quick meal in between shopping, meeting up with a friend (or in my case, husband) who works in one of the towers. And now more than ever, there are a variety of great options to fit your mood. As of six weeks ago, that includes Thai.

Last week, before a movie, I tried Very Thai, a Taiwan-based chain founded by a Pasadena native who saw a gap in the Thai food market in Taiwan. It’s the first US location.

The restaurant is beautiful, vast, painted a bold red, and displays a backlit bar. Though CPK was the space’s former tenant, it’s now unrecognizable. The service was amazing despite the fact the place was mobbed, which created a lively environment.

My favorite dishes were the papaya salad and the fried fish. For dessert, they have AWAN plant-based ice cream. The vanilla coconut is a must. The Thai tea also may have well been on the dessert menu.

If you’re in the mood for Thai food and find yourself at Century City, it’s a solid option. Give it a go.

NEWSWORTHY

• I received my primary ballot in the mail today. If you’re in LA, make sure to look out for yours, and VOTE on or before June 2!

• The LA Tuna Melt parodies culture in LA and is a must-follow on Instagram.

• Barnsdall Friday Wine Night tickets are now on sale.

• Jitlada was closed last week due to a vermin infestation. I was planning to celebrate my birthday with family there on Thursday and had a change of heart before even hearing this news. Phew.

• Wi Spa is opening a head spa.

• I’m very excited for Enrique Olvera’s (of Pujol, Damián, and Cosme) new mariscos spot, San Damián, to debut in Venice this summer.

• La Azteca Tortilleria is opening a new location in the Arts District. I wrote about their burrito last week:

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In other news, dinner and vibes at RVR on Saturday night were great. It’s fun to go with a large group so you can try a lot of dishes. My favorites were the tonkatsu and shrimp dumplings, and the coffee ice cream for dessert was sick. On the other end of the spectrum, as confirmed after several visits, their raw fish always leaves me wanting — I’m not a huge fan of their sashimi or hand rolls. I’d go as far as to say the raw fish dishes are the most underwhelming on the menu.

In today’s newsletter: a burrito, a hike, a mentalist, and some things newsworthy.

La Azteca Tortilleria

Sundays with no plans are the best. Sleep in. Pay an unrushed visit to the farmers market. Pick a spot for lunch that would normally take you an hour to get to, but takes half the time on a Sunday with no traffic. Golden.

This Sunday’s lunch spot is the beloved La Azteca Tortilleria. Opened over fifty years ago at its original Cesar Chavez location, its chile relleno burrito was named a top-five burrito in Los Angeles by the late Jonathan Gold.

A community staple, many were upset when La Azteca was forced to move last summer after its building was sold and the rent increased. The new location can be found in a strip mall on the corner of Atlantic and Beverly, right next to Atlantic Station.

Unassuming until you see the line, you can sense the anticipation from everyone waiting for their burrito. The place seems to be a mix of regulars and newbies. I even spot an intimate food tour. While the chile relleno burrito is what they’re known for, I also see many people with quesadillas.

I order the chile relleno burrito with carne asada, and take a seat. The wait isn’t long considering that somehow, the line continues to grow.

This burrito is FAT. Once I get over the sheer size of the thing, I unwrap the paper and, as expected given the name of the place, the tortilla looks drool worthy.

Once the burrito is cut, I notice the cheese. It seems to be stuffed inside (and oozing out of) the roasted pepper at the center, with the steak, beans, tomato, and onion forming the outer layer. I love the fact that there’s no rice.

The tortilla is flaky, buttery (apparently lard is the secret ingredient), perfectly crisped (yet chewy), and obviously handmade. It does its job both in taste and function, holding the dense fillings perfectly.

The combo of tortilla, meat, cheese, and pepper is delicious. It’s decadent. It’s everything I want in a burrito and more.

I’m glad I save the second half to enjoy it all again, later.

Fryman Canyon

This time of year, in anticipation of increasingly hot summer weather, I try to fit in lots of hikes before I deem them unenjoyable.

A go-to for me is Fryman Canyon. It’s accessible with a parking lot, paved start, and steady but not too steep climb. The second half of the route I like to take is mostly downhill, passing TreePeople (where there are benches and bathrooms if you need a break) and looping back to the parking lot via Studio City neighborhood streets.

The homes in the hills and in the Fryman Estates neighborhood are stunning, as are the views of the valley and mountains. Depending on the season, there is also an abundance of wildflowers to enjoy along the way.

It takes me 45-50 minutes start-to-finish. Fuel up at Aroma before or after.

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Magic as Medium

I am skeptical about attending Siegfried Tieber’s Magic as Medium show in LA until ten minutes into the performance. The initial skepticism stems from intense targeted paid social advertisements urging me to purchase tickets.

Obviously, I fold.

The second bout comes from the venue. A conference room at W Hollywood is a wack choice of venue for almost any event unless it’s work-related, and even after the glowing review I’m about to write, I stand by that. The performance is held in a way-too-bright, carpeted room. Zero atmosphere.

That is, until Siegfried comes onto the stage. Which, by the way, is when I have my third and final round of skepticism — or, at this point, “regret” is probably more fitting.

He’s very theatrical. He tells strange stories. Makes weird body movements. Picks people out of the crowd to come onto the stage. All this behavior is jarring in a bright room full of strangers. I think to myself, this better be good.

Well, Siegfried’s performance wasn’t good. It wasn’t great. It was absolutely mind boggling.

He performs a variety of acts (many, as noted, with audience participation). Of course, there’s a deck of cards. There are also Rubik’s Cubes, envelopes, books, and…the minds of the audience.

Which he somehow can read.

The tricks build from seemingly simple or “seen that before” acts of magic, then twist and turn via memorization, magic, and mentalism until you’re met with a reveal you never thought possible. I’m still questioning the possibility of the entire performance. I mean, throughout the show he has guests make their own choices!! Decide things randomly!!

At the end of the show, as you’re processing all that went down, there’s another surprise. Siegfried can send you a four person guest pass to the world renowned Magic Castle, notoriously exclusive and impossible to visit unless invited by a member.

The next Magic as Medium performances in LA are on May 23 and May 24. Sales open May 9. Unlock access for a fun night out.

NEWSWORTHY

• The man behind Antico Nuovo’s insane ice cream (I’ve written about it here and here) started his own business, Henry’s Secret Ice Cream, that drops limited flavors each Wednesday at noon.

• Leora is opening a second location in Brentwood.

• Handled Estate Sales is opening the doors to Oscar-nominated actress Samantha Eggar’s Sherman Oaks estate this weekend. The vintage clothing looks awesome.

• LA Bakery Walk is hosting their third 13.1-mile walk, this time in central LA.

• Friday is May 1! Celebrate with the kickoff of jazz at LACMA, First Friday on Abbott Kinney, or Sunset Sessions at Penmar.

• The D line opens next week, with a strong event calendar to kick things off.

• Sqirl dinner made it into The New Yorker. Read about my dinner experience here.

• A list of LA’s 25 best restaurants made it into The New York Times.

• And Bill Esparza updated his picks for best tacos in LA on Eater.

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In today’s newsletter: my takes on Organic Oren’s LA meal service, La Dolce Vita, and Budonoki, plus some things newsworthy.

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Organic Oren

It’s a luxury to have someone prepare a meal for you: a family holiday celebration, your partner cheffing it up for date night, or a friend inviting you over for weekend dinner plans. Food just tastes better when you can feel the love and care that went into its preparation.

But what about those days and nights that aren’t special occasions? When you’re exhausted, getting home late from travel or work with no time to go to the market. When you’re behind on your to-do list with zero brainpower to decide what to make or order for dinner. Sick of everything in your fridge, on DoorDash, and at your local market’s hot bar.

Organic Oren solves for these all too common scenarios while maintaining the quality, flavor, warmth, and convenience of someone cooking you a homemade meal. In their words, they offer a “chef-prepared, a-la-carte service that feels like a private chef at home.” All of the menu items are organic, local, gluten-free, and seed oil-free. Most meals are also dairy-free, and there are many vegan and vegetarian options.

The prices reflect the high caliber ingredients and service, and are similar to the cost of a hot bar plate from Erewhon or an order from Goop Kitchen.

After following their Instagram for a while and hearing rave reviews from friends, I decided to give it a go. I live five minutes from a pickup location, and my order was brought right up to my car. Seamless. A great start.

Everything I ordered was delicious and fresh. The chicken burger lettuce wraps were a highlight, served with caramelized onions, pickles, and a chipotle sauce. The vegan curried chickpeas and sweet potatoes with spinach are hearty and flavorful. The tuna salad and curried chicken salad are perfect for easy, work from home lunches. And the shredded chicken on the southwest chicken tostada salad was incredible.

Organic Oren is an A+ experience. The cost and order planning are worth the peace of mind and convenience of having delicious and healthy chef-prepared meals during particularly hectic weeks. I will definitely be a repeat customer, and I’m excited to try more items on their rotating menu.

How it works:

Orders open Mondays on the Organic Oren website for pickup or delivery the following Monday. There’s no membership or weekly commitment required — just choose from the week’s menu, add to your cart, and check out. It’s that simple.

Delivery is available in most of LA (though at a cost), while free pickup is offered in WeHo, Brentwood, Calabasas, Montecito, and Newport.

La Dolce Vita

La Dolce Vita, the old-school Italian restaurant in Beverly Hills, has a glitzy history. Originally opened in the ‘60s and frequented by legends such as Frank Sinatra, the Reagens, and Jimmy Stewart, it survived decades, consistently hosting new generations of celebrities, until it shuttered during the pandemic. Fortunately, it reopened under new leadership in 2023 after a three-year closure.

Red leather booths with white tablecloths line the dimly lit and surprisingly small restaurant. The carpet is cheetah print. A sexy, intimate bar boasts a drink menu with a variety of negronis, martinis, and house cocktails. Food is served family style. The crowd is glamorous and great for people watching. And prices are outrageous, though expected, at a Beverly Hills establishment (I’ve eaten here several times now, always on work’s dime).

I’ve had great experiences with the food. The veal parmigiano is my favorite. It’s crispy, tender, and HUGE. Caesar salads are made tableside and are also a must, and I like the shrimp fra diavola as another appetizer option. Bucatini al limoni and baked manicotti are two great pastas, and usually there’s a special worth ordering, too.

Overall, I prefer the atmosphere and experience at La Dolce Vita to nearby Funke. Pro Tip: seating is most comfortable with four or five people, as the booths can get tight.

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Budonoki

I finally made it to Budonoki for the first time last night and can confidently say that if I lived closer, it would become a go-to. I’m going to RVR for dinner on Saturday, and it will be interesting to compare the two back to back. Based on previous experiences at RVR, I found both Budonoki’s menu and vibe to lean more fun. While RVR focuses on ingredient quality (with a strong California influence) and a Venice- cool energy, Budonoki leans into playfulness with illustrative graphics on the menu, amusing dish names such as the “budo-gnocchi,” and a night-out feel.

Both serve their place and both have great food.

My favorite dishes at Budonoki were the negima skewers and yakisoba noodles. The wagyu was also delicious. DIY tuna hand rolls were good, and so were the sweet potatoes, though if we’re comparing, versions of these dishes are better at RVR.

Budonoki is a great choice for a fun night out with friends, with something for everyone on the made-for-sharing menu.

NEWSWORTHY

Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus is offering free rides today in honor of Earth Day.

Maggie’s is teasing its grand opening as the first nice gas station in LA. Gas, coffee, soft serve, wine, and clean bathrooms are a few of the items advertised as available for purchase.

Wilde’s has opened its café window for coffee and pastries.

Peads and Barnetts, the beloved farm raising open pasture hogs and offering the best pork at LA restaurants and farmers markets, is opening a shop called Good Things. It will sell meat, flowers, and a mix of goods for the kitchen, home, and garden. They will also host events. Doors open May 7.

A Current Affair’s vintage market is popping up in LA May 2 and May 3 on Melrose.

Merit LA, the vintage furniture gallery, is selling the original LA Times newspaper sign.

Tocaya is offering $10 bowls and salads online and in-store with code BDAYBOWL on April 26 for its 10 year anniversary.

The new Karen Lord Pilates location on Melrose opens for classes starting Saturday, April 25.

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In today’s newsletter: The Weisman Art Foundation, Dreamy Coffee Co., and some things newsworthy.

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Weisman Art Foundation

Approaching the Weisman Art Foundation is equal parts mysterious, exciting, and intimidating. The instructions on my ticket say to park inside the gates of the home with a bronze statue out front. The neighborhood is quiet and lined with the busy landscapers responsible for the neatly manicured hedges. As I wind up Carolwood Drive, I start to understand that the “house museum” I’m about to tour is a full on compound. I learn later that the Weisman estate is nearly three acres.

I park, am told to keep my bag in the car, and join the rest of the group. Visiting the Weisman Art Foundation is by appointment only, with two tours a day on weekdays, and currently booking a few months out. I’m not really a tour gal, but that’s the only way to view this collection. And so the tour begins.

Frederick R. Weisman was a successful businessman, leading Hunt Foods by age 31 and owning dozens of Toyota dealerships throughout his career. As he gained wealth he took to art collecting and philanthropy: funding arts education, supporting museums, donating art to hospitals, and ultimately, sharing his collection with the public in LA and by lending pieces to museums and galleries worldwide.

The 1920s Mediterranean style villa, recently reopened after a year-long renovation, boasts Weisman’s personal collection of over 500 works of 20th century art. The estate was purchased with the intent of creating a living museum, and that it is.

Sculptures line the lawn, pool, entryways, and patios. Art pieces decorate walls, ceilings, fountains, tables, and floors. The guide leads you from the front yard and entry, through the downstairs and upstairs of the house, to the back pool and grounds, and finally, to a separate annex that was built later on to accommodate Weisman’s growing collection and larger pieces.

Picasso. Miro. Warhol. Sezane. Lichtenstein. Haring. I commend the docent who guides us on all she has memorized. She peeks at her cheat sheet a few times.

I don’t love all the pieces. Weisman was a bit self-obsessed, with multiple paintings of himself throughout the home. There are strange realistic human figures creepily placed in various rooms. The furnishings haven’t been touched since the home was purchased, and it definitely gives horror movie upstairs.

But there are many more pieces I love than don’t. The experience is intimate and unique. It makes me want to start a less impressive version of an art collection. Though it wasn’t disclosed how much the collection is worth, it must be in the hundreds of millions of dollars. And it is all available for you to experience, completely free. Just how Weisman wanted.

Here’s where to book a tour.

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Dreamy Coffee Co

I first tried Dreamy Coffee at Sylvester & Co. Modern General in Sag Harbor, NY. When I sipped the brewed coconut flavor, I died and went to heaven. The coffee bar in the back of the store, and the shop itself, were always a must visit when out East. Last year, the store closed after a 35 year run. Little did I know the reason was so owner Lynda Sylvester could focus on her coffee business.

So imagine my surprise, as I’m paying for my Cinnabanana slice at Gone Bananas Bread in Brentwood, (really good but $$$; I’m excited for the Cinnies collab they are teasing will launch permanently), that there are bags of Modern General Dreamy Coffee Co. behind the counter both for ordering and for purchase.

The coffee pairs perfectly with the banana bread. While you can only order the unflavored coffee, you can buy the bags of beans (including the coconut and their signature Dreamy roast!) to make at home. The only other place in LA that sells the coffee is Bravo Toast in WeHo, which sells the Dreamy Cold Brew as a menu item.

Newsworthy

Erewhon is opening at LACMA. IMHO, their rapid expansion is quickly plunging the brand from exclusive to mainstream and cheugy. It’s no longer cool to post your Erewhon smoothie. Enjoy your tofu sticks in private (I can’t, and won’t, give those up).

Celebrate Songkran, Thai New Year, at Wat Thai Temple this weekend. Their weekend food court is raved about for authentic and affordable Thai eats.

You can enjoy a sound bath in LA on an $800k mattress.

Bar Betsy is now open. Has anyone eaten at Betsy? I’m thinking of going for my birthday in a few weeks.

Superiority Burger is coming to LA May 4th.

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