burke williams, samo

Oh man, do I love me some Burke Williams...

The WeHo location may be closer, but the schlep to Santa Monica is well worth the time. The Spanish colonial styled spa is larger and better appointed, and has expanded services and communal areas, unlike other locations. Hell, it's just plain better than the other BW's around town.

Most of the massages are about $100 which also buys you unlimited entrance into the spa - lockers, showers, dressing area, dry sauna, steam room, jacuzzi (communal and 'quiet' - the latter is tucked around a corner and never as crowded), misting room, the 'quiet' reading room, communal co-ed lounge (with a great fireplace), and outdoor patio.

This is one of the few spas you can enjoy with your hunny since you can meet in one of the co-ed areas - such as the fireplace lit lounge - robe clad and all between services.

If you're having a massage you can add on one of their therapeutic baths for an extra $35. Let me tell ya, this is worth every penny.

Even if you're not a big fan of facials, the one at BW is like heaven. It's an hour long process and involves some serious massaging of the head, neck, shoulders, hands and feet. The fact that you're getting a quality facial with all of that is almost a bonus.

Don't even think about hassling with the public parking mess. It's no pleasure dropping a couple hundred bucks for serious chill only to put your blood pressure through the roof trying to find - and then escape - the public lot a few doors down. Never mind, taking your clean as the day you were born body and tender pink skin through the nasty urine scented parking lot. There's valet downstairs with a direct elevator for about $10. Trust me, with what you're gonna spend, you can afford the few extra duckets and you'll be so thankful you did.

Weekends can get crowded, especially around the holidays when everyone's cashing in their gift certificates, but weeknights here are a real treat. There's only a few people around, getting a booking (even for the sought after couples massage room) is cake, and they're open till 10p giving you plenty o' loungin time.

If you're in for relaxation or deep tissue (a bitch, but HIGHLY recommended), ask for Beck. I have yet to find anyone there who can turn you into jello like he does. If you're looking for an out of body spiritual experience with your massage, ask for Ganesh. He's an acrobat and poet as well as masseur, and it shows.

Tip: If it's your birthday and you prove it, they'll give you one of the baths for free. If you happen to be pregnant (meaning you can't enjoy most of the heated spa areas), they'll do a special low temp bath for you, also for free.

1358 4th St
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 319-9820

turquoise

Are you stylistically challenged? Does your nest look like the work of an odd bird? Not sure about those paint colors or how to make your Ikea look chic, not cheap?

Look no further than Vanessa DeVargas's new showroom in Venice - Turquoise. The girl is oozing with style and has plenty to share. She offers interior design services for projects big and small and has a gorgeous showroom you'll want to call home, filled with all sorts of custom vintage furniture and revamped mid-cent modern pieces. It's a touch Jonathan Adler, classic yet still decidedly modern, and all with an unmistakably sexy (and sensual) Angelino woman's touch.

This girl is hot and gettin' more press than Paris, so get shmoozey with her now while she can still squeeze you in between clients (and while you can still afford her)!

Check her out at www.turquoise-la.com and you'll see what I mean ; )

1641 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
(310) 314-2010

oh, the shame of it

as much as it pains me to admit this, i'm sad to see the oc go.

yeah, that's right. i tivo the oc. it's my guilty pleasure. aside from poking fun at the absurdities of teen angst and charmed life behind the orange curtain, its self-effacing wry sarcasm has some brilliant moments and you get some pretty darn good music to boot.

c'est la vie. good thing hbo's new season is starting to pick up.

speaking of things that pain me ... i put in a weenie 3-miler this week after a nearly nine month (and twenty pound) hiatus from running, and fuck me, i'm sore. i ran a marathon less than a year ago and now i'm struggling with a few miles? never mind my running shorts fit more like hot pants, even my shoes were tight. are you kidding me? my feet have gotten fat too?!

shame, shame, shame.

the parker

No matter what time of year, this is one of our fave weekend getaways.

The Adler design is evident in every inch and the villas (if you can get your grubbies on one) are utterly divine. When we're lucky enough to land one (god bless the corporate comps), we only leave to venture out to the grounds for the pools (one of which is saltwater), the Lemonade Stand (this ain't your corner stand variety - you can pretty much park yourself here for the day or stroll with your drink to play a pissed game of Petanque or Baci) and the two fantastic restaurants - Norma's for brek and lunch and Mister Parker's in the eve. Both of which are worthy of 5 stars on their own.

PSYC (Palm Springs Yacht Club), aka the spa, is a grown up fantasy land as are all of the specialty services. If you're there in summertime, the Goldfinger is a must - they polish and bronze you - it's luscious. And don't forget your iPod - you're invited to enjoy whatever you like during your treatments. (But if you do forget, they have a menu of music choices that'll delight even the pickiest listener). Even the yoga classes every morning are worth sauntering over to, hangover and all.

This is one place we love to make an annual mecca to and one of the few hotel properties in the world I'd actually give a sixth star to if I could. Every element is impeccable and geared to the 30-45 crowd without being wanky.

All you need to pack is a swimsuit, light sweater and a couple of wrap dresses. Otherwise, you can sunbathe nude on your patio and lounge around half nekkie, and pretty much not leave the grounds all weekend. (That is, if you even want to make it out of the amazing beds). This is truly a little bit of heaven not to be missed.

4200 E Palm Canyon
Palm Springs, CA 92264
(760) 770-5000

el carmen

Hands down, this remains one of my favorite watering holes in town.

I'm a tequila drinker and this is one of my favorite places to enjoy it. The lucha libre theme, the Mezcal Margaritas, the Dune-esque paper lanterns, the velvet wall paintings, the jukebox, the Mezcal Margaritas, the weeknight dj's, the red leather bar chairs, the Mezcal Margaritas, the fact that it's dark enough for me not to care how nasty the little girl's room is and close enough for me stumble home.

Did I mention the Mezcal Margaritas?

All that AND I can get a fish taco?

Love it!

8138 W 3rd St
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 852-1552

ummba grill

** Update** If you happen to be at the mall on the weekend, check out Brazilian Sundays. Live music and dancing from 5-8p starting this month. (4/8/07)

Another addition to the new AMC theatre and food court at the Century City Mall, this is a poor man's Foga de Chao - except that at an average of $20-$25/person, it ain't that cheap.

If you don't have time for a sit down meal but don't want to deal with crowds and families in the food court, this is a nice option. The Brazilian churrascaria grilled meats are sliced to order while the myriad selection of hot and cold side dishes are offered up buffet style.

Food is weighed and purchased by the pound - which can make for a great deal if you load up on the grilled meats, fish and shrimp and salad. You have the option of going entirely self-service and taking a table (which is great if you're in a hurry to catch a flick) or you can be seated and have a server make your plate.

One of the greater appeals is the interesting set-up with indoor or lounge style outdoor seating, as well as a full service bar - complete with a flat screen for catching sports scores - with seating both in and out.

Service was pleasant enough though some of the food was over salted which speaks to inconsistencies in the kitchen, but for something other than being stuck with the food court, this is a great pick.

10250 Santa Monica Blvd
Century City, CA 90067
(310) 552-2014

red pearl kitchen

After all the mixed reviews, I had to check out this new addition to our neighborhood .. We headed over for a pre-holiday weeknight dinner (sans reservation) and we loved it.

Beautiful interior - the red works and with some of the modern touches (the kitchen is behind one red-tinted glass wall of the dining room, and from the right angle, you can actually watch them cook), it doesn't feel chintzy or bordello-like. The dining room was stunning - complete with red-lit xmas tree - as was the lounge area and brand new pool table - a great alternative to waiting for a table in the dining room or trying to eat in the bar, which is also an option.

The drink list is creative and impressive (the Ju-Ju I had was perfect and not too sweet as is usually the case with signature cocktails). The menu has plenty of options for every palate and everything we tried - Lamb Meatballs, fiery hot Five Spice Chicken Wings, Pineapple Kobe Beef Skewers, Giant Prawn Skewers, Foie Gras ShuMai - were excellent and beautifully presented.

Our waitress (who was obviously stoned - no joke) was attentive and we had great, albeit entertaining, service. My only complaint may have been the tres tacky pseudo Chinois ensemble they're all forced to wear. Come to think of it, I'd have to be high to wear that every night too.

No, it's not authentic Chinese dim sum. If that's what you're looking for, head over to San Gabriel or Monterey Park and hit a real dim sum restaurant. But if you're looking for a great new spot on this side of town to have a tasty dinner and drinks with some beautiful decor, Red Pearl is worth adding to your list.

Interesting twist on valet - all the drivers were women in little red fur trimmed hooded parkas. As an added touch, when our car was returned, the valet girls had left a little package of Red Pearl almond cookies on the center console. Nice ending to a great evening.

6703 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90038
(323) 525-1415

kokomo cafe

Hidden away on the backside of the Farmer's Market, this place is a gem for brek - especially in the absence of DuPar's. They've got all sorts of yummy stuff like Pumpkin Pancakes and Catfish and Eggs along with great standards like French Toast and a tasty Eggs Benedict. For those who're inclined, they do Mimosa's by the pitcher.

Another plus is the great 80's music that's usually playing via satellite radio and the choice of sitting where you can people watch inside the Farmer's Market at a table or the bar, or in their patio area which is surprisingly hidden away for being tucked in between the bustling market and the parking lot.

If you're not in the mood for the fuss and crowds at places like Toast and Doughboys, this is a great (and affordable) low-pro neighborhood alternative.

6333 W 3rd St Ste 120
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 933-0773

Photo courtesy of Nate F.

galco's soda pop stop

When I was a kid, this is where we'd go to pick-up old school Italian style deli sandwiches and treats. Hell, come to think of it, this is where my parents went when THEY were kids. Back then, mom and pop Galco were still behind the counter making everything to order. Nowadays, their son has taken up the cause, maximizing on their unbelievable selection of hard to find sodas and brews. (Yes, they sell beer from around the world, too, in the back by the deli counter).

They have every beverage you can imagine here and more. The small batch Mint Julep Soda will get me to schlep across town any day. On my last visit, Beer challenged me to pick up some Dandelion & Burdock soda he hadn't had since he was a kid in the UK. A shock to him, but no surprise to me, they had it! - along with Shandy, Victorian Lemonade and Ginger Beer all from the same 100+ year old bottler, Fentiman's. Every month or two, they bring in something new - this month, it's Nesbitt's California Strawberry Soda - and they're always happy to fill a special request when they can.

If you can't make it out to lovely Beagle Cock (ooops, did I say that?), they've got a great website which will show you what's in stock, new arrivals, complete product lists, online orders, and even classic drink recipes (ever wonder how to make a Purple Cow or a Muddy River?) at www.sodapopstop.com

Even if you've never heard of Eagle Rock, you'll want to break out your Thomas Guide to get to Galco's. This place has been around in the same location for a lot longer than I've been around (you do the math.. that's a hell of a long time).

Tip: Buy a case. They'll give you a nice discount when you do. Don't miss their classic candy selection. And, if you're in the store, make sure you grab one of their amazing dip sandwiches while you're browsing around. They still have the old deli counter in the back of store and the prices are as old school as everything else here.

5702 York Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90042
(323) 255-7115

diane von furstenberg

DVF immortalized the wrap dress that looks uber amazing on virtually anyone, from skinny to curvy, from the office to cocktails. Sure, you can pick up her dresses and separates at Bloomie's and the like, but why go department store when you can cut out the middle(wo)man and head directly to their flagship LA store?

Located in a great ivy covered brownstone space off Melrose Place, it's like heading into the mothership. And do I mean, mother. Variety, selection, and AMAZING sales. Not to mention, a little shopping love every girl desires and deserves. The dressing rooms are large and luxe and the sales girls are surprisingly genuine and helpful. (When they offer you a glass of champagne while you shop, don't think twice, just say yes). If you're looking for something particular, something special, or a hard to find style or size, they'll make sure they get it in for you - and it'll be done before you can bat an eye and guzzle those bubbles.

You'll also find things you won't at a department store, meaning the entire line - couture, select styles, swimwear, wraps, accessories and fragrance. New deliveries of colors and prints come in at least once a month.

Once you've been, seen, and conquered, they'll add you to their mailing list, which means advance notice for special events and sales (read: fabulous shopping and more champagne) and personal hand written notes thanking you when you make a purchase. I dunno about you, but I always feel like once I've spent a few hundred dollars on a garment, a thank you is in order.

The kind of treatment generally reserved for indulgences upwards of $5k can be yours just for dropping in to spend a few hundred on a dress - or two - which range mostly from $325-$495 with a few upwards of $700 (for the suede and ornate numbers). Jackets run about the same and separates can be had for $198 (blouses) to $255 (skirts and pants). Mind you, during a sale, you can subtract anywhere from 25%-75% from those rates.

They have some gorgeous wool felt pieces right now for Fall - the Marple skirt is DIVINE - so get your champagne knickers on and get shopping!

8407 Melrose Avenue
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(323) 951-1947
www.dvf.com

asakuma

Even with a recent change of hands, Asakuma is still one of the best places in LA to find great sushi without costing an arm and a leg. Everything is consistently fresh and delish, there's a full bar and easy, inexpensive valet parking (which belies it's upstairs mini-mall location).

Though there is a full service restaurant and dining room, if you're up for sushi, this is one place you'll definitely have a better experience sitting at the sushi bar. The specials menu is a great start, but be sure to ask one of their seasoned chefs for the day's recommendations and go from there.

If you like sake, they have a nice selection and the presentation is great - in large test tubes. If you're in the mood for something on the light side, or dropping in for lunch, try the Seared Ahi Salad. The Seared Bluefin Sushi is one of my personal faves along with their amaebi (sweet shrimp). Make sure you request the heads fried - despite their alien appearance, they're beyond good and you'll earn a little respect for munching down antennae with a beer and some gusto. As for basics, they make a mean Spicy Tuna and the house special, grilled Black Cod is not to be missed.

Tip: They have a special delivery only location on Robertson, east of Wilshire, that's just as good. You can even order online at www.asakuma.com

11701 Wilshire Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90025
(310) 826-0013

wok on fire

Wok on Fire should be on everyone's delivery auto-dial. If you're craving Asian but can't put your finger on what, these are the guys to call.

They do Chinese, sushi and a couple of Thai basics (Pad Thai and Thai Tea) and miraculously manage to do it all well. They're routinely fast, fresh and friendly. No waiting an hour when you're starving after work for mediocre lukewarm food. Even the packaging is well thought out - it's secure, recyclable and reusable. You'll never find hot items in the same bag as the cool items, nor leaky dishes, soaked thru paper containers and spilled drinks.

Rarely can you find delivery sushi that's good, fresh and trustworthy, but they've nailed it. Their special rolls are great and they have an ample list. The yellowtail and halibut sushi along with the shrimp handrolls are also good picks.

If you're in the mood for Chinese, it's all good. Really. If you're in the mood for small plates, their Lettuce Chicken Cups are fantastic as are the Shu Mai, Spicy Garlic Chicken Wings and Crab Rangoon (if you want a little something fried and naughty).

In the mood for soup? Both the Won Ton and the Hot and Sour are simple and perfect.

We've ordered from these guys at least a couple of times a month for the last few years and have yet to get something we didn't love. If you find yourself with something you don't dig, call me and I'll take it off your hands ;)

As for sweets, they've got you covered. Every delivery comes with an obscene number of colorfully foil wrapped, white chocolate dipped fortune cookies.

Tip: There are a few tables inside, but this really is a delivery place. Some of the usuals like the Garlic Sauteed Green Beans, Spicy Eggplant, MaPo Tofu and Fried Rice can be too oily for the diet conscious. Just ask for light oil and they'll be happy to accommodate. Everything is so flavorful, you'll never even miss it.

1447 S La Cienega Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90035
(310) 289-5168

Photo courtesy of Kampy

gyu kaku

I love meat, I love fire and I love Gyu Kaku. Indeed, it's one of the few neighborhood places Beer and I both agree on and never seem to grow tired of.

This has become a favorite because it's reliable across the board - the food is always good, the service is friendly and efficient, the location is great, there's enough variety to satisfy virtually any craving, the valet isn't absurdly priced (sometimes you even get lucky and score a street spot), they treat their regulars well (meaning, they'll find you a table with a smile no matter how crazy it may be), you can work around any diet you may be on, or you can FEAST without gagging on your wallet in the process, all in a great looking environment. Really, what more can you ask for?

There's something very warm and cozy about the modern, minimalist Japanese interior. Despite being very open - with slatted wood between seating areas, sealed concrete floors and subdued lighting (I love the paper lanterns), and a large communal dining area in the main room - the styling makes every booth, large or small, feel private.

Their house specials like the hirami miso (thin sliced marinated beef), the garlic shrimp, the house salad (inexpensive, big, fresh and tasty), and the bibimba (seasoned hot rice bowls mixed at the table) are always flavorful and fresh. If you want something a little different, try the tongue (thin sliced and perfectly seasoned, it's delish, I swear) or one of the little Japanese sausages (this makes me giggle just typing it, heheh). There's a variety of little foil packed fresh veggies to steam on the grill, all of which are good, but I'd suggest the mushrooms, asparagus and garlic spinach.

Though the style of the cooking is definitely Korean and you will find kimchee making an appearance on the menu, this is distinctly Japanese BBQ.

They've recently added a bunch of new items to the menu, like a lobster tail that was succulent and worth every (reasonably priced) penny. There's also the addition of a list of ramen soup dishes if you're in the mood for something different.

Start your meal off with a Shochu Grapefruit (Korean grain alcohol with fresh grapefruit made at your table - the latest way to get around lack of a liquor license). Ask for the pulp and get your daily serving of fruit in while you get your drink on.

Dessert on the grill is another don't miss. They have fantastic DIY S'Mores to warm the hearts of all, and these amazing bananas you grill in foil and pour, steaming hot, over ice cream. Talk about comfort food. Save a little room and at least split an order.

I was recently saddened to discover there are no more frequent flyer cards (they used to get you free food orders, culminating in a $50 gift certificate when you used them up), and to see our favorite manager, Mai, leave to open their Sherman Oaks location, but, c'est la vie, the show must go on.

I'd recommend this place without reservation, even to those who don't necessarily love Japanese food or bbq. It'll please even the pickiest of groups - from your meat lovin' bf to your vegetarian gf and everyone in between.

This is a fun place for parties. There's a private room behind shoji screens just off the main room. Add a little candlelight, and it's perfect.

Tip: They have GREAT happy hour specials here on food and drinks. Ask about the frequent diner card at the Pico location, where I heard from Mai, they still use them. Check out the restrooms - they have everything you need apres Q, including mouthwash!

163 N La Cienega Blvd
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
(310) 659-5760

Photo courtesy of Joan S.

grub

One word sums this place up - BACON.

Sure, they serve up all sorts of good stuff, but what brings me back every time is their bacon. They start with the applewood smoked variety we all know and love, and then take it up a notch by glazing it in some sort of wonderfully sticky, but not overly sweet, maple-based syrup and top it off with some finely chopped fresh herbs. This bacon is so good, I've had vegetarian friends break not only to have a bite, but to order their own side! It's THAT good.

Bacon aside, Grub serves up a nice variety of brekkie and lunch in a homey, cheery, Hollywood locale (it's a converted bungalow in a residential hood). They're open from 11a-3p every day of the week.

The crowd is very casual and consists of primarily locals and behind-the-scenes, industry production types walking over from the local studios. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and you'll likely be seated by one of the owners.

They serve up all sorts of comfort food, and make a mean grilled cheese accompanied by homemade tomato soup called the After School Special. A great lunch or snack is the (very) GARLICKY Mt. Olympus - a wild mushroom couscous salad, with olive tapenade, hummus and artichoke hearts, served with pita triangles. The homemade GingerAle is spicy and yum and a nice way to wash down your garlic or bacon.

Oh, and the french toast is friggin' amazing!

Tip: This place is nestled next to the studios and it seems to be a magnet for B-list celebs, so if you have visitors in tow, it's a great low-key stop for a satisfying bite to eat and a little people watching. The front patio is also small pet friendly, so if you're looking for a place to brunch and read the paper where you can bring Fido along, this could be it.

911 Seward St
Los Angeles, CA 90038
(323) 461-3663

jay and silent bob's secret stash

If you're a geek, love a geek or just happen to be a fan of Kevin Smith and his films, this is the joint for you.

Great selection of comics, from the new stuff to the classics. They had Charles Schultz' Complete Peanuts in addition to a well-stocked new arrivals section. More Smith movie memorabilia and collectables than you could shake a stick at - most of which has been signed by the man himself.

If you're looking for a hard to find Mooby or Gay & Silent Bob t-shirt, they'll have it - very cleverly displayed and stored in a wall of pull-out file drawers that would make Martha Stewart proud.

Don't miss the collection of bobbleheads. My personal pick is Buddy Christ :)

To their credit, prices were reasonable, there was lots of fun stuff to check out (even if you're not an enthusiast), and they've done an amazing job having fun with the space. Only complaint - the staff. This is the kind of place for fans that you'd expect to be run by fans. The guy behind the counter was lackluster and humorless, and when queried on out of stock product, just nodded his head in agreement and didn't even offer an arrival date. Made me think of a college kid working a job he had no interest in because he really needed the money. He got two thumbs down - from Beer and Buddy Christ.

Secret Stash
1045 Westwood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90024
(310) 824-1373