lupicia tea

This shop is such a gem for tea lovers, it almost redeems the Century City mall for me. We fell in over the holidays on the hunt for gifts and ended up taking care of a good part of our list in this store alone.

They have an amazing selection of teas and an incredibly knowledgeable staff. They carry everything from a line of more than 200 loose teas - many of which are hard to find or original blends - to beautiful tea pots and accoutrement, and great gift boxes and holiday sets. The prices aren't cheap, but are reasonable for the quality. And even if you're not in the market to buy, they're very generous with the samples.

Their specialty is Japanese tea (given that they have more than 80 locations in Japan, this shouldn't come as a surprise), so if you're a fan, this place needs to go on your favorites list. The Gyukoro Green is great, as is the selection of Genmai Cha. Other favorites include the Sweet Dreams blend (cut ginger, chamomile, dried apple, fennel, bluemallow), which is a must if you find yourself sick, and one of their top-sellers, the Champagne Rose (black tea). If you like spicy, the chai selection is fantastic.

To learn more, you can check out their website which has recently been translated to Engrish.

Westfield Century City Mall
Los Angeles, CA 90067

imai sushi & kushi

I've been keeping this neighborhood joint on the dl for a long time now, but I see the word is already out.

The sushi here is reliably fresh and tasty - and the sushi chefs are even better. Add to it the wide variety of kushi (little grilled skewers of this and that they flame grill behind the sushi bar), extensive menu, pleasant service, nice atmosphere, a little bar with some interesting cocktails, (including a new Zipang sparkling sake that gets me in trouble more often than not), generally easy lot parking, reasonable prices and great specials (lunch and happy hour), and you can't go wrong.

For us, it's walking distance, which makes it even better - especially after a few sake cocktails ;)

If you're in the area, this is a relatively unknown place worth checking out.

8300 Wilshire Blvd
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
(323) 655-2253

Photo courtesy of Robert H.

chic-a-boom

Specializing in 20's - 80's collectibles and memorabilia, if you like your pop history with a splash of kitsch, you'll love all the vintage treasures at Chic-a-Boom.

This hidden Melrose haunt, just east of La Brea and best known by the big sign shooting off the roof, carries everything from vintage postcards and posters to magazines, pins and toys. The architecturally pre-war space is like a giant grown up toy store overflowing with great finds stacked and piled in every nook and cranny.

The shop's been around nearly 30 years. The owner - who used to have a second store devoted purely to rock-n-roll goodies - is a trip, and after a few minutes of easy conversation with her, it's obvious she's passionate about everything she brings in - and equally passionate about who she allows to take home a few of the more rare finds.

Despite wanting to buy half the store - and refraining from walking out the door with a life-size David Cassidy (watch out Hoff!) - the Beer talked himself into an original, untouched, 60's NY subway Connery Bond poster that's become one of our prized possessions.

Whether you're in the market for a big vintage splurge or a few fun things to spruce up your decor, this is a fun spot everyone Angeleno should check out at least once.

6817 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90038

(323) 931-7441

bread bar

In a sea of Atkins inspired protein peddlers, Breadbar is a refreshing return to what eating is supposed to be.. good, simple, comforting, food.

The space - both indoors and out on the patio - is inviting, and when you walk through the door, the sweet smell of baked goodness is hard to resist. The beautiful display of floor to ceiling bread loaves that flank the entry wall is impressive and enough to make any foodie weak at the knees. If you're in the mood for brek, the omelettes - for example, eggplant and gorgonzola (all paired with a complementary artisan bread) with fig brioche - are yummy, and if you're in the mood for a splurge, the french toast is hard to beat. For lunch, the sandwiches on a wide variety of fresh baked breads are super tasty.

Despite not coming out of the oven, the oatmeal was a great alternative if you're there on a cold morning. Same goes for the coffee, lattes and capps, which were all much better than average. The first server we had was a checked out ass, but his replacement was sweet as pie and on the ball to right what he'd wronged, so overall, no complaints on that front.

Don't forget to grab a loaf (or two) and some pastries for the road. You'll be sorry if you don't! You might think of this place as a splurge to blow the glycemic bank on, but they manage to balance things out with reasonable portions unlike what you'd expect to find.

Though this isn't a spot I'd necessarily go out of my way to frequent, as an option at the mall after harried shopping or catching a matinee flick, it doesn't get much better.

10250 Santa Monica Boulevard
Century City Mall
Century City, CA 90067

(310) 277-3770

chulada grill

Good Mexican isn't always easy to find, especially when you don't want to leave the house, but Chulada always manages to deliver - literally and figuratively.

I wouldn't go so far as to say everything here is perfect, (complaints about too dry burritos and nachos have been warranted on occasion), but the chilaquiles with verde sauce, chicken and steak (add $1 for both), hits the spot every time. Add their spiced rice pudding or flan and a beer for the perfect combo after a rough day at work. The horchata here is pretty good too.

The specialties of the house are Oaxacan and they do a mean oxtail stew that's worth a visit.

5607 San Vicente Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90019

(323) 954-7570

bohac

If Indian imports are your thing, look no further. Bohac on Melrose (which has recently trimmed down from two locations to one), is an Indian trader who carries everything from home furnishings to jewelry.

Come here for amazing textiles, pillows and cushions, a great selection of Indian jewelry (bangles, earrings, cuffs, toe rings, belts, decorative bindis, etc.), large scale furniture, carvings, doors/archways, candles, vases, art and other accessories, and one of the best selections of saris you'll find on this side of town.

If you're in the market for a beautiful sari skirt or wrap, they nearly always have a two for one special going on which makes the prices even better, especially if you're shopping with a friend. Plan to spend some time looking ... the myriad handcrafted textures, colors and designs will keep you occupied trying to decide what to take home.

If you're looking for something in particular - ask. Often they have specials - like tons of copper Indian serveware--that's in storage and needs to be sold.

7556 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 966-0096

pink's

This places gets props just for the historic kitsch factor. Being that I hadn't been here since I used to ditch junior high, I decided to stop by with the Beer's parents visiting from the UK.

Thankfully, the line moved quickly an we had our to-go order, packed and out the door, in under twenty. The chili was just as I remembered it - oily and meh. I can think of at least a dozen places with better chili BUT this is still a fine dog. No doubt in my mind there isn't a kosher dog in the house, but for cheap eats, can't really complain.

The Pastrami Reuben dog was tempting (with mustard, kraut, swiss cheese and pastrami), but I finally settled on the Martha Stewart dog (a 10" stretch dog, mustard, kraut, relish, chopped tomatoes, three slices of bacon and sour cream) and it was damn good. The folks had the polish sausages with grilled onions and mushrooms and seemed content. Next time, I'm getting the Mulholland dog. It's a bit of a mystery to me what's (not) on it, but I saw a few made, and man did they look good.

I wouldn't advocate going when the line is around the corner, but if you can catch it when it's not and you're mood for a creative, messy, piled high dog, this is the place to be.

Tip - Some people have made cracks about the line being an e-ticket to the toilet. If that's what you're in the market for, head over to OkiDog on Fairfax - they'll give you the shits (and maybe a little salmonella) every time.

709 N La Brea Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90038

(323) 931-4223

shambhala

Who knew the path to enlightenment was in Eagle Rock? This is another one of the city's little known gems. The Center offers all sorts of instruction and courses on everything from art to sex and relationships.

Obviously, the big focus here is meditation. They offer meditation instruction a couple of weeknight evenings and Sunday mornings for FREE. That's right boys and girls, no excuses. You can go here for a great group experience that's open (and suitable) for everyone from the novice to the advanced. What better way to unwind from work and life?

If you're not so sure about jumping into the meditation thing but want to check out the Center and learn a thing or two, they also offer a Thursday night public program (also FREE though donations are gratefully accepted) which focuses on different topics with various instructors (check their website for a complete schedule).

The space is great and the people at the Center are pretty wonderful too. It's a great way to get a taste of Eastern philosophy without feeling like someone may try to enlist you in a cult. If you haven't been, this should be on your "must do" list.

Check out http://la.shambhala.org for more info.

963 Colorado Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90041
(323) 255-5472

kiku sushi

Aside from the casual sidewalk seating, Kiku offers a pleasantly surprising comfy and upscale neighborhood environment for moderately priced, fresh, creative sushi.

Time and care has been spent decorating the space to transform it from being another generic box with a sushi bar, and the dim lighting, painted walls, cushy window seats and choice of jazz standards playing (at just the right volume) really enhanced the vibe.

Edamame and miso were brought to the table when we we were seated which is always a nice touch - especially on a cool night after a long day.The amaebi was far from the best I've had, but the menu was full of options with a wide variety of rolls and appetizers - the baked New Zealand mussels were great. All of the rolls we had were a departure from the standards we all expect and delish. One stand out is the fiery Heart Attack - a concoction of spicy tuna, crab meat and cream cheese stuffed into a halved jalapeno and baked open face. If you're in the mood for something light and fresh tasting, ask for the Kiku roll which isn't on the menu anymore - salmon and mango - yum.

From the wall of polaroids depicting regulars (including a handful of recognizable faces), we clearly weren't the only fans. Instead of being tacky, it actually lent itself to the warm, homey feel here. Last time we were here, we sat next to the Mayor. Our server was a sweetheart who confided she was a regular before becoming an employee. You may expect parking to a bear, but aside from being able to find a few open meters, even on a Saturday night, the public lot across the street is a good bet.

If you're in the mood for a relaxed evening and leisurely din in the city, don't overlook this find in quaint Larchmont. The whole street is packed with little known restaurants and shops worth checking out (including a wine shop that imports tons of British choc - woo hoo!) and a nice area to enjoy a walk after dinner.

246 N Larchmont Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90004
(323) 464-1200

Photo courtesy of Joan S.

cake & art

I got turned onto this inconspicuous bakery on Sta. Monica Blvd. in boys town years ago when I was in need of a wedding cake.

When I first got there, I looked around and thought to myself, 'this place specializes in cock cakes, are you for real?' Well, after a short time with the owner, Tom, I learned that they can bring just about anything you can imagine to life in edible art.

I was able to design my own wedding cake complete with my own hand drawn designs which were done in icing. It was nothing short of perfect. Now here's the kicker - Tom will be the first to tell you pricing cakes by the slice (even quality, artistic cakes) is hogwash. My cake which was given a $1200+ estimate everywhere else I went (anyone who's had a wedding can relate), was $300. (The estimate was actually $250 and Tom apologetically explained it was a little more work than they'd anticipated. I was hardly about to complain.) Since then, the shop has taken on a softer feel with additional cases for the many cupcakes they now do as well.

Custom is the name of the game here. They do a variety of standard cake flavors and fillings, but another little known secret is that Tom makes a mean carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. (I'm talkin' mean enough to rival my other fave baker, Sweet Lady Jane). It's THAT good and can be made with or w/out nuts - just like the cock cakes! If you have something in mind that isn't in their repertoire, bring in the recipe and they'll make it so. No kidding - they've done an amazing red velvet cake for me from a friend's recipe.

Since then I've been here for just about every occasion, including a b-day party he did a mad hatter cake for and a friend's baby shower for Beatrix Potter baby block cakes - the delicate, detailed images were screen printed in sugar - they were AMAZING and AFFORDABLE.

Tip: If you want to recreate an original design, make sure you have pictures or drawings and be very explicit in exactly what you have in mind. The one time I just described what I wanted, was the one time I wasn't completely in love with the cake. Every time I came armed with a visual, it was perfection.

Oh, and if you're in the market for a naughty cock, I mean, cake (you can choose race, size, cut, uncut, and with or w/out money shot - though this is one time I'd suggest you pass on bringing a photo) or t&a cake for a bachelor(ette) party, look no further. They do 'em like no one else!

8709 Santa Monica Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(310) 657-8694

trader vics

Oh, the memories ... and not just mine. My gran used to hit happy hour here in the 50's when she still had an office in Beverly Hills. Grandma doesn't remember much, but she does recall the Mai Tai's, which are memorable indeed!

This is mid-century Tiki at it's purest. Part of what I love about T-Vics is that not much has changed since then - including some of the bar and wait staff!

The vibe is old school and cool, the drinks are stiff, and the appetizers get tastier with every drink (pass on the sushi, everything else is good - especially if it's fried!). My poison is the Scorpion which is served up with a big gardenia floating on top. Don't be fooled by the girlish exterior- it's a sweet, smooth concoction that'll knock you on your ass. And if that's your goal, just go straight for the Scorpion bowl (it serves 2-4, depending on the crowd and who has to work in the morning).

I've had dinner here a few times and despite being a bit pricey, it's very good, even if only for the kitsch value.

This is one local spot I'll be very sorry to see go - it's slated for demo (date still TBD) to make way for condo development and a possible Waldorf-Astoria hotel. Damn shame and a big mistake if you ask me. But until then, I'll be there drinking up!

Tip: There are some libations that have actually been pulled from the menu over the years for being too strong (I shit you not). As for my faves on that list, there are some things even I won't reveal, but if you ask real nice, one of the older waiters likely will ; )

9876 Wilshire Boulevard Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (310) 276-6345

exhale

This place offers the best of both worlds - a serious yoga workout AND a relaxing spa experience.
Specialties at this SaMo mind-body spa include the Core Fusion and (live) Music Flow Yoga classes, but I have yet to take a class there I didn't love.

The main room upstairs has big windows that open to an upper level sun deck. Downstairs, you'll find the main desk, lobby (with lots of goodies and yoga clothes to buy) and of course, the spa. The spa is as zen as everything else and just being there is calming. Don't miss all of the fabulous products they have for use. The salt scrub is awesome and something you don't often see for DIY at a spa.

The spa area isn't co-ed but they do have a separate men's area. And as previous reviewers have mentioned, unlimited spa access is only ten bucks with a yoga class. How can you beat that?

elixir

** Update ** Sad to report, the rumors are true. Elixir is officially closed. (7/12/07)

If you're looking for a little zen on the westside, than this is the place to be.

They've got more tea than you could shake a stick at (well, I guess you could shake a stick at it, but I can't imagine why you'd want to), and a beautiful little garden to sit outside and enjoy it in, by day and (torch lit) by night.

They offer a slew of "elixir" tonics - Virtual Buddha, Liquid Yoga, Chi Devil and Morning After are a few of my pics - which can be had hot, or, cold and sparkling, (they seem sweet, but fear not, no added sugar) though for me, the real draw is their amazing variety of tea which can be enjoyed by the pot. Try the Gen Mai Cha or the Bengal Chai with milk and honey - they won't disappoint.

In the market for a little splurge or to take something home? They have an amazing selection of tea and teapots for sale, though unless money is no issue, you're probably better off looking for quality ceramics in J-Town. Sage, incense and all sorts of earthy goodies are also readily available, and at far more reasonable prices than their teapots.

You'll notice they're also a complete herbal apothecary with a full line of herbal tinctures and tonics for all that ails ya, and if you're lucky the herbalist will be in to help you navigate the myriad bottles of this and that.

As others have mentioned, it's worth checking out their calendar for events and goings on. Some evenings, there's live music out on the patio facing the garden or the card readers will be out doing their thing.

Tip: The Bodhi Tree bookstore is right across the way, so it's worth checking both places out if you have time.

8612 Melrose Ave West Hollywood, CA 90069
(310) 657-9310

rayfield's ribs

By a strange turn of events, I found myself in Santa Clarita (no, I wasn't buying, selling or manufacturing methamphetamine) and happened upon the most amazing BBQ I've had outside of the south - given that I was a NoLa wife in another life, I know a thing or two about the que.

I was driving around when I got a waft of some serious BBQ. I followed my nose and the plumes of smoke rising into the sky hoping I wouldn't find myself at someones meth lab, ahem, I mean, garage. It was a purely residential area so I imagined I'd be crashing someones backyard party, but lo and behold, nestled on this little street in the middle of bum fuck nowhere was a sweet, little church, and they were cooking up some mean BBQ.

This church put me in heaven alright (and I'm a Jew!). I ordered just about everything I could (the prices were so low, they were practically giving it away - chicken, pork ribs, beef ribs, hot links, and more). The pastor was doing the cooking in steel drums you rarely see this side of the Mississippi - or a cook off. His wife was running the till, and his kids were serving up platefuls of everything BBQ you could imagine, pulling sodas out of a cooler for the diners, and all the fixins - including dirty rice done just right, mouth watering greens and mac and cheese.

Turns out this was a Sunday tradition that had gained such popularity with the locals they'd started serving up a few weeknight dinners in the fellowship hall. The pastor is from Texas and his wife is from Louisiana, so you'll find specialties from both areas on the menu, (though the style of the BBQ itself leans toward Tex).

Since then, word of mouth has taken off like a Malibu wildfire and a couple of years ago they opened up an actual full service BBQ restaurant in a little Canyon Country strip mall. Naturally, the experience isn't quite the same, but the food and the service sure as hell is. They'll tell you they've been blessed to live their own American dream. Even still, this remains one of the city's best kept secrets.

You can't get me over the hill for anything, but if you want to trek to Santa Clarita for some REAL BBQ, I'll offer to drive :)

18436 W. Sierra Hwy, Ste B
Canyon Country, CA 91351

(661) 298-3663

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