citizen smith

The majority of the reviews I've seen have focused on Citizen Smith as a dinner destination, but what a great place to grab lunch in Hollywood. They open at 11am Mon-Thurs, there's virtually no crowd giving you the choice of any booth (inside or out) you fancy, and they have a very nice, seasonal lunch menu ranging from $10 (Jalapeno Mac & Cheese) to $21 (NY Strip Steak). The seared Ahi Tuna Nicoise ($16) was perfect in every way.. and the bartender makes a mean Arnold Palmer too.

As for the dinner crowds, if you don't want to be treated like second class cattle by the doormen, make a reservation - even if it means calling in your name last minute from the valet line. The difference is vast and absolutely worthwhile.

1600 N. Cahuenga Blvd
Hollywood, CA 90028
(323) 461-5001


Photo courtesy of Kate D.

golden bridge yoga

My first experience with yoga was a kundalini class with Gurmukh (of celeb pre-natal yoga fame) about 7 years ago at the original Golden Bridge on 3rd St.

The new location in Hollywood is Gurmukh's vision of creating community realized - having evolved beyond just another yoga studio. Despite the new location's walking distance from my office, it's taken me nearly a year to make my way over, but I was glad I finally did.

With the inclusion of a natural food stop (salad bar by the pound, mung beans and rice, selected Indian food, numerous healthy sweets and a communal dining table), a large shopping area (with books, magazines, apparel, accessories and beauty items), a healing spa offering massage and a bevy of wellness services, as well as a wide variety of the yoga classes you'd expect (not just kundalini, but hatha and anusara), this really is a community center.

True to form, they host a number of events from music performances to book signings. All that considered, one of the best bets is still the old school kundalini yoga class with meditation taught by Gurmukh weekend mornings. After the class, yogi tea is served and nearly every weekend that's followed by Gurmukh opening her home to students for a communal vegetarian dinner. The experience is definitely worth the time.

Tip: Validated parking is available at the Arclight. Check out community classes in their online schedule for discounted rates at goldenbridgeyoga.com

6322 De Longpre Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 936-4172

arclight hollywood

Hands down, this is the best movie theater in LA.

I had to jump on the bandwagon here, because everyone's griped about the price of admission and no one has really talked about the free membership program. Sure you pay a dollar or two more per showing (The Grove is up to $12 and you still have to fight kids, crowds and mess for a seat), but who else is offering you points for every dollar you spend? You can redeem them for concessions, discounted companion seats and even free tickets.

Member movies (ones that have been out a few weeks) are only $11 anytime - and you're still in a comfy reserved seat, in a quality theater, without a bunch of screaming kids. Worth every penny.

Then there's the special member's events (you get notice of these when you sign up for their e-mail), like advance screenings and openings with writer and director Q&A's, and their 21+ screenings which include bar service. What's better than having a martini with your date night movie? Try the Orangesicle without the triple sec, it rocks.

We just saw a screening of Clerks II on a Friday night at 5:30 followed by a Q&A with Kevin Smith (that went on until they had to literally drag him out). Because it was before 6pm, the tickets were only $11 and the seats I got online were awesome. How can you beat that?

And the concessions - Who doesn't love a big sausage and some caramel corn? This really is some of the best caramel corn around short of making it yourself.

As for the Cineramadome.. I always loved this theater and it makes my heart smile that they've breathed some new life into it without taking away from the integrity and historic value of the structure and its features. They still do lots of classic film screenings, complete with intermissions. If anything, it's now a draw for thousands of people who never would have bothered.

What more can I say. Thank you Arclight. We love you!

Photo courtesy of Joan S.

the bowery

For quick, fresh, anytime fare, don't miss The Bowery on Sunset. I'm lucky to be able to take a quick jaunt across the street for lunch, but this is also a great pick if you're catching a flick at Arclight up the street.

The space is small - it's really a bar with a restaurant - but they somehow manage to get everyone squeezed into the black leather booths and chairs comfortably. The specials, along with the respectable by the glass beer and wine list, line a chalkboard wall which meets a coffered tin ceiling and shiny, white subways tiles which also define the street-side exterior. All in all, it's classic, chic and masculine space with a very clean, east-coast vibe.

Americana lunch standards include a juicy, customizable Burger that's nothing short of heaven with a side of their signature Sweet Potato Fries and a Spinach Salad that makes me want to clean my plate every time. Seasonal specials include a Seared Ahi Tuna dish cooked perfectly and served with a very complementary corn and black bean relish, and a stand up Gazpacho that's great given the Summer heat. For dinner, the Moules Meuniere were fresh and sweet and even got a nod of approval from The Beer, which is not an easy feat.

If you're in the hood, this stop should be on your list.

6268 Sunset Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 465-3400

zen zoo

Considering I come to this Zen Zoo at least once a week, it's only fitting that I give it a great review.

Whether you're in the mood for a delish tea boba concoction (they have a dozen or so named after the signs of the Chinese zodiac), a light meal or organic/vegan sweet treat, they've got you covered.

The staff are fabulous and always happy to give you a sample of this or that.

The hidden, little upstairs dining area is a great find and perfect for a quiet lunch with a read from Borders next door, or an impromptu business lunch.

Tip: If you're in the market for some "alternative" service, or just happen to be curious about what's going on around town, there's a little community board on the wall near the front door that's nearly always jam packed with new business cards.

1517 N Vine Street
Hollywood, CA 90068
(323) 962-9969