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.

The song stuck in my head this week:

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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3 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:

The song stuck in my head this 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.

The song stuck in my head this week:

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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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The song stuck in my head this week:

In today’s newsletter: my new favorite dessert in LA, visits to a high end antique showroom and clothing boutique, a Larchmont gem, some food takes, and other things newsworthy.

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DESSERT

For dessert, I’m generally a coffee, chocolate, peanut butter, hazelnut, coconut, crumble, cinnamon kind of girl. Pistachio and key lime are cool, too. I am not a fruity (especially banana), whipped cream, custard, pavlova, crème brûlée, cannoli, meringue girl.

Some of my favorite desserts in LA include: Antico Nuovo gelato, Le Great Outdoor seasonal crumble pies, Bristol Farms “the cookie” (peanut butter version), anything from Dunsmoor, and now…La Provence chocolate covered coconut macaroons.

We had the macaroons for dessert on Passover and oh my god they are insaneeeeee. Chewy, rich, intensely coconuty, sticky, and dangerously addictive. Pairing a macaroon with their coffee would be heavenly. I’m still thinking about them, clearly.

BLACKMAN CRUZ & JUST ONE EYE

While visiting Blackman Cruz for the first time this weekend, I thought about how amazing the homes decorated with their antiques must be. The rare and historical objects, unique decor, and eclectic, yet curated, furniture are impressive and so unusual you really want to take in each piece on its own. I preferred it to the neighboring JF Chen, whose 30,000-square-foot showroom felt chaotic and cluttered for my pre-lunch brain.

Down the road at Just One Eye, I had similar thoughts: how amazing the closets of folks who shop here must be. A security guard unlocks the door for you to enter. There’s a floor-to-ceiling Damien Hirst painting greeting you upon hello. The art coupled with the healthy spacing between items of clothing and brands, and, unsurprisingly, the price tags, contribute to the sense that you’re experiencing both an art gallery and a curated boutique. The space screams ultra-chic luxury and transports you to another stratosphere of class.

Both are worth visits, if only for browsing.

LARCHMONT BEAUTY CENTER

Ok so now — somewhere on the opposite end of the spectrum. A place you can do more than browse. Somewhere that’s very hard to leave without making a purchase. A store where I can spend hours inspecting the surface area of each shelf and comparing baskets with other shoppers: Larchmont Beauty Center.

They’re a mom-and-pop shop that’s been in the neighborhood for over thirty years. If you’ve been reading Scout LA for a bit you may know I despise CVS and this is a far superior alternative for your skincare and beauty needs. They are a bit more expensive, but personally, I prefer the in-person discovery and product-testing experience, and supporting a local business. Plus, their selection is unmatched: they are well-stocked with your standard brands as well as European, Japanese, and Korean products that are hard to find elsewhere. I left with the Beauty of Joseon Aqua-Fresh SPF 50 I’ve been wanting to try, and a new hairbrush.

QUICK FOOD TAKES

• I tried the new Miznon on West 3rd. The rotisserie chicken plate and fluffy pita were highlights. For the prices, I was a bit disappointed by the lack of sides that came with the main dishes. They had also run out of hummus. I’ll be back in a few weeks when they’ve had a chance to perfect operations a bit.

• The wings at Mala Class are amazing. The dumplings and cukes and beancurd were also great. The mapo tofu was, surprisingly, a disappointment. The staff confirmed they like to add pork to their own tofu bowls in the back to make it more flavorful (the served dish is vegan).

• I lost my Angel’s Tijuana Tacos virginity this weekend. Though warranted for the price, the tacos were a bit loaded for my taste (hard to fold and a bit soggy). That said, the al pastor and homemade tortillas are delish. Maybe just as impressive is the skill of the trompero, catching and slicing the pineapple in one motion.

• I’m currently appreciating the Frecker Farms organic avocados, not only because they are delicious, but also for their perfectly portioned size. I rarely finish a full avocado in one sitting, so these mini guys are a game changer (see lime for size comparison).

NEWSWORTHY

The award-winning food recycler, Mill, and Little City Farm are popping up this Earth Month with local chefs (including Aaron Lindell of Quarter Sheets and Fátima Juárez of Komal) for their takes on no waste cooking. All ticket sale proceeds will benefit LA Compost.

The beloved NY-based yoga studio, SKY TING, is popping up at Santa Monica Proper later this month.

Layla Bagels launching a one-week only pizza bagel at their Beverly Hills location…during Passover… is a hilarious choice of timing and venue.

Are real people (not Alix Earle or other celebs / influencers) actually paying for the Reserve PS experience at LAX?

Blackbird launched on the Eastside.

On Sunday, 4/12, the Santa Monica Conservancy is running a tour of historic Adelaide Drive estates.

The song stuck in my head this week:

I’m craving a major reset and reintegration into my routine, and a spring-cleaning haul is one way I plan to do that. Cooking at home, leaning into movement, and prioritizing rest are others. Plus meditating (I work for Calm).

I’ve rounded up some of my LA saving graces (all below $100, except for the facial) for when I’m in need of some self-care. I’d love to hear about some of yours around the city — leave a comment below!

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COOKING

Given my frequent takes on the food scene in LA, you may be surprised to hear that 80% of my meals are cooked at home, and that I’m a Certified Health Coach. Balance, baby!

Btwn Meals by Mia Rigden was my first paid subscription on Substack. Mia is an LA-based nutritionist, chef, and author who creates weekly menu PDFs with quick, healthy, and delicious recipes to make at home. Each week she also includes a PDF grocery list for the recipes that makes market runs seamless.

In addition to weekly menus and grocery lists, Mia sends newsletters about health topics such as the benefits of creatine, feeling good when traveling, and more. I highly recommend subscribing if you find yourself cooking the same thing every week or struggling to motivate yourself to cook at all.

MOVEMENT

Most have great intro offers and are also on ClassPass.

PILATES

• Silver Springs (Heated): Worth the hype. Stunning studio, great instructors, fun music…and they clean up your mat and props for you.

• Natural Pilates (Traditional Reformer): The hardest traditional reformer class in my opinion. Every instructor is great, and they have multiple locations.

• Folm (Mat): I wrote a review about this cycle-syncing studio a few months ago. See below!

STRENGTH

• Studeo: The best community and trainers. You will get your ass kicked and feel and look amazing. I went here for my wedding training.

YOGA, BREATH, & SOUND

• Open: gorgeous space and incredible classes, with a focus on breathwork, meditation, and nervous system regulation.

HIKES

I write about Tuna Canyon, Sullivan Canyon, and my favorite stair hikes in LA in my three Substack posts linked below:

REHAB: BODY & SKIN

ACUPUNCTURE

Contemporary Alternative Medicine, Inc.

Next to the very random Birkenstock shop on West 3rd sits this inconspicuous, no-frills wellness center offering acupuncture, cupping, and moxibustion. The owner, Emily, came recommended by a doctor of mine. She’s helped me regulate my cycle, calm nerve pain from an injury, and relax deeply when I needed it most. The clarity and zen I feel after a session are unmatched. And the best part? They accept insurance!!

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Jason Ferine

I’ve been to many physical therapists and Jason is hands down the most effective. He’s focused on pain relief, but more importantly on the root cause of injuries and symptoms. Care is dedicated and each session is different, which keeps things interesting. As someone who exercises and works at a desk, I appreciate his focus on form and posture. He also accepts insurance!!

MASSAGE

Massage Company West Hollywood

I’ve briefly mentioned MCWH before. This is my go-to, clean, but no-frills, deep tissue massage spot. Every masseuse is amazing. The prices for the quality are fabulous. They accept last minute appointments. You’ll feel younger when you leave. What more can you ask for?

FACIAL

Bradley Beauty

Heather of Bradley Beauty keeps things simple. She doesn’t offer laser options, try to convince you to do PRF, a salmon DNA facial, or a ten-step skincare routine. She finishes her signature facial ($175) with a homemade mask that feels amazing and leaves you glowing, with no downtime.

SPA

S.P.A by Courtney Wittich is a great resource for your spa needs in Los Angeles (and beyond), and a helpful reminder that you don’t need to be on vacation to go to the spa!

ON MY LIST

• A visit to Peace Labyrinth: the gardens reopen later this year

• This grounding incense workshop with Hyungi Park

• I’m told I need to try YOLO Foot Spa

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Gourmet magazine threw some shade at NY-based Caper Media in yesterday’s issue, regarding the Taix closure date:

“The new and very New York food publication Caper tried to go bicoastal this weekend, posting on their Instagram that L.A. institution Taix “had their last service on Friday.” We know the time difference can get a little confusing, but the beloved French restaurant was, in fact, open until Sunday.”

Coachella’s food lineup was announced.

Camphor’s Michelin starred burger popup, Le Burger, is staying close by in the Coachella Valley after their appearance at Indian Wells. And Villa’s Tacos? First stop Super Bowl, second stop Coachella..next stop: the Olympics??

L.A. Taco is rebranding to IE (Inland Empire) Taco. April Fools.

Pizzeria Sei’s last day of dine-in service on Pico is April 6th in anticipation of their relocation to Overland.

Speaking of new locations, the beloved Palisades Cafe Vida will reopen in The Highlands.

If, unlike me, you actually understand directions in this city, here’s the location list of LA’s 125 new speeding camera locations. It reminds me of the Californians SNL skit. Godspeed to all.

Or, if you have a gas car, maybe just stop driving so you don’t go broke. Gas prices hit $6 in LA.

A $4.3B loan was secured to complete One Beverly Hills. Nadine Chao of The Stanza writes “when lenders commit $4.3B despite the current environment, that’s a strong signal on where institutional conviction is concentrating.” Meanwhile, many in Hollywood are doing what it takes to survive.

There will be a Pink Moon tonight in LA at 7:13 pm. A good reminder and excuse to look up!

The Olympic ticket pre-sale runs tomorrow through April 6 for locals that pre-registered and were selected for a slot. May the odds be ever in your favor.

The song stuck in my head this week:

If you live in or are visiting LA, care about its food scene, and have the means, a meal at Dunsmoor is non-negotiable. Yes, it’s hard to get into. No, it’s not centrally located. I’m telling you, put the effort into making it happen. The service, food, and ambiance are beyond worth it.

This go-around, we ordered:

• Baby Albacore: lightly seared, crusted, and doused in an incredible shallot ginger root sauce. Absolutely incredible — a favorite.

• Dandelion & Treviso Salad: fresh and bitter greens were balanced by creamy gouda and a sweet and salty date and anchovy vinaigrette.

• Beef Ribeye: just sick. Cooked to perfection: rich, salty, tender. I prefer the ribeye to the pork chop, but both are great.

• Grilled Asparagus: the fat, juicy, seasonal vegetable of the moment.

• Chocolate Molt Pie & Sticky Date Pudding: dessert put me over the edge, but was well worth it. I always order multiple at Dunsmoor. The cold chocolate molt pie was covered in crunchies and cream, and the sticky date pudding was served hot in a mini cast iron with a scoop of ice cream on top.

Other favorites on the menu we didn’t order this meal are the cornbread and chili stew. As both types of side potatoes were prepared in front of us, we decided we’d get them next time.

On the way out, owner and head chef Brian Dunsmoor asked us about our experience, and I asked him about his pool game in return. He’s a humble dude. A total treat!

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When it comes to strolling the streets of the Beverly Grove, Fairfax, and WeHo neighborhoods, Beverly Boulevard is often overshadowed by its more popular and parallel counterparts, West Third and Melrose. And for the most part, it’s for good reason.

Aside from some gems like Beverly Hills Juice and King’s Road, it’s a bit of an undesirable stretch in comparison. However, there are a few blocks starting at North Stanley heading east toward La Brea with quite a few shops and food options worthy of exploring.

From west to east, starting on the north side of the street:

• Andante: grab a coffee at this corner cafe to kick off your stroll

• RLT: for the gals. A curated assortment of vintage denim, tees, jewelry, and belts mixed in with their private label basics line. Their tees and tanks have become staples in my closet.

• Dopolavoro: an easy to miss, mini Italian market and wine shop for your charcuterie, fresh pasta, and natural wine needs.

• Heath Ceramics: the renowned shop boasts a rainbow of dinnerware, tile, and ceramic accessories that inevitably gets you thinking about replacing what you have at home.

• Bitter Root Pottery: I’ve heard great things about this nearby community and membership forward pottery studio. They have an outdoor penthouse studio with views of Hollywood and DTLA. A great gift idea.

• The Kit Vintage & Platt Boutique Jewelry: celebrities shop the vintage bridal, event pieces, and antique jewelry in the shared space.

• TURTLE AND COY POND: look out for this surprise in front of Claire Pettibone’s boutique.

• Scent Bar: it’s hard to smell anything in here, but the niche selection and categorization of perfumes is great. Come prepared to describe what you’re looking for and they can help make a match. I recently purchased Molecule’s Patchouli scent (admittedly, on Mercari) after spraying it here and having people stop me to ask what I was wearing.

• +COOP: at this point, you’ve crossed to the south side of the street. Admittedly, +Coop is not a favorite shop of mine, but it’s a crowd pleaser for gifts and home decor.

• Household by Nicky Kehoe: I prefer the household side of the store to the design side. Beautifully curated household supplies.

• Jonathan Wright & Co: a custom stationery, invitation, and greeting card design studio and print shop that you can also stop into for a unique card and/or gift wrap.

• FOOD: Terroni, Angelini Osteria, Tacos 1986, El Coyote, and Escuela are all great eats in the vicinity, depending on time of day and mood. Shaky Alibi claims to have been voted the best waffles in America — I can’t yet confirm or deny. If you can’t resist, I will also make it known that you’ll end your walk at Erewhon The Grove.

Here’s a Google Map of the above, plus more, for your explorations!

GOOGLE MAP

As a cat mom, I wholeheartedly agree with Kelly Loudenberg’s logical conclusion in her Air Mail article on the co-owners of Horses: “Would I leave my cats alone with either of these two? No.”

Love the debate started by LA Material: how many cars should make a left after the light turns yellow (or red)? No less than three, in my humble.

Tasbeeh Herwees of No Bad Days is organizing a list of eats in LA for under $10. Here’s the ongoing list and where you can submit new entries.

Chan Luu Sample Sale: March 27 from 9am-3pm. Cooper Building, Unit 315. I’ve been before and it’s a great selection of highly discounted jewelry, ready to wear, and more.

The song stuck in my head this week:

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• Ahead of dinner, I enjoyed reading about head chef and owner Brian Dunsmoor’s impressive pool game.

• Outstanding in the Field 2026 tour ticket sales launched this morning. I had an incredible experience at the Xanabu Farms, Malibu dinner in 2024. One of the best gifts I’ve ever received.

• The LA Home Farm baskets are also a great gift idea.

• There are multiple spring sales and markets on my radar this weekend:

  • Rich Stapleton, Rosalia Park, and Lindsey Chan are hosting a vintage, home goods, furniture, and art sale from 10-5pm, 3/21 at Francis Gallery.

  • Surf Canyon is hosting their Spring Equinox Market on 3/21 from 4pm-7pm. There will be live music, food & drinks, and shopping. I love their community of local small businesses.

  • Gift of Garb’s designer blowout sale is also on 3/21, from 10-4, with a portion of proceeds donated to CHIRLA. Prices from $35-$125.

  • The Elder Statesman sample sale runs through the weekend at 260 Sample Sale in Beverly Hills.

• The City of Santa Monica debuted a Framework for the Santa Monica Airport Conversion Project. The community has opinions: check out the discourse in the comments.

• Per the Eastside Rag, Loreto is opening a sister restaurant. I can’t fucking wait.

• The Brig needs support in getting their upgraded alfresco patio approved by the city. Speaking of patios, Casa Vega opened theirs earlier this month.

• Justin Bieber made a surprise performance at The Bird Streets.

• I’m going to need to try this walk in only bar burger from Majordomo.

• Bucatini is reopening the back of their shop.

• Cedars-Sinai bought Beverly Connection. As a resident of the neighborhood, I would much prefer my local Marshall’s than another Cedars building.

• Love these old-school sketches on iconic LA hotel notepads.

• Crudo e Nudo celebrates five years with a week-long visiting chef series starting April 13. The lineup includes Little Fish, The Dutchess, and Betsy.

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The song stuck in my head this week:

Imagine my excitement when, on my first weekend on a family trip to Aspen, we got eight inches of snow. It melted a few days later, but luckily, there’s a lot to do in Aspen whether or not you ski.

In today’s letter: the culture, food, outdoors, and to-do’s of Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is notorious for its wealthy visitors and residents. With one of the highest concentrations of billionaires in the world, it’s hard to completely avoid the signs of opulence: take the rows of private planes at the airport, designer stores in town, and price tags on any “for sale” real estate, to name a few.

There are pros and cons to this, of course. On the one hand, the streets are immaculate. The bus system is free. The open spaces, trails, and ski amenities are plentiful.

On the other hand, there’s a severe affordable housing crisis, an increasingly transient culture (most billionaires’ homes in Aspen are second, third, or fourth homes), and the replacement of small businesses with high-end retail and restaurants. There’s also a lot of traffic.

As a return visitor to Aspen, and like with any place, really, I’ve found the town is what you make of it. There are numerous local, charming gems that maintain the character of the historic silver mining town if you’re looking for them. There’s great food. Stunning nature. A vibrant mountain town feel.

I mean, let’s be real, billionaires have high standards. Aspen is fucking magical.

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GETTING THERE

If you’re flying into or out of Aspen airport, assume that something will go wrong. Due to its high elevation, low visibility, and unpredictable weather and winds, flights are very frequently cancelled and delayed.

The good news is the airport is small, easy to navigate, and only 15 minutes from town.

Coming from LA, I take my chances. Vail’s Eagle airport is an alternative for those coming from the East Coast.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Skiing

Aspen is one of my favorite mountain towns to visit, largely due to the accessibility and varied terrain of four ski mountains in close proximity to town:

Buttermilk, Snowmass, Aspen (Ajax), and Highlands (listed from least to most advanced).

The free bus system easily gets you to all of these.

Unfortunately, that’s about all that’s free when it comes to skiing at Aspen. The mountains are on the Ikon pass, with limitations. The base Ikon pass doesn’t allow you to ski Aspen, the Ikon Base Plus pass gets you five days with blackout dates, and the full Ikon gets you seven days. Anything more, you need to buy the Aspen-specific ski pass.

I tend to mooch off my friends and family with season passes, since they get discounted day-pass tickets to share :)

The views from the mountains are surreal.

Hiking

There are trails galore in and around Aspen.

• Smuggler’s: think of this trail as the Runyon of Aspen. A “go-to” accessible hike on a gravel trail. Steep on the way up but not too long, with breathtaking views of the valley below.

• Rio Grande Trail: this 42-mile, mostly paved walking / running / biking trail runs along the Roaring Fork and connects Aspen to Glenwood Springs. Gorgeous homes, cute puppies, and stunning views surround you.

• Maroon Bells: the most photographed peaks in North America are less than a 30-minute drive from Aspen. The road to access them is closed in winter, so I’ve never had the privilege of visiting. These are high on my list!

Fly Fishing:

• Taylor Creek Fly Shop: For me, fly fishing is one of the most meditative and relaxing experiences there is. I had an amazing experience fly fishing with the Taylor Creek outfit out of Basalt. It was my third time fly fishing (have gone in Santa Fe and Park City), and the Frying Pan River did not disappoint. We caught a ton of fish and even spotted a golden eagle! For lunch, we ate next door at The Tipsy Trout.

FOOD & DRANK

There are a lot of places to eat in Aspen. I’m highlighting my favorites.

• Petit Trois: yes, the same one as in Los Angeles. To my pleasant surprise, all of my favorites were not only on the menu, but just as good as back home. The escargot, trout almondine, bucatini, and Big Mec are musts. There is really nothing like dipping the perfect baguette in the escargot’s garlic-butter-parsley sauce or the perfect French fries in the burger’s bourdelaise sauce. Most of the menu items are a few dollars more expensive in Aspen. Fun fact: the burger sauce in Aspen includes the foie gras that was part of the original recipe, but was later removed from the menu in LA due to California’s ban on the product.

• Hickory House: the town’s casual BBQ joint. The smoked wings are the standout. There’s also nothing wrong with their ribs, mac and cheese, or milkshakes. Is it as good as Texas or Tennessee BBQ? No. Is it still worth it? Yes. Pro tip: I’ve heard Slow Groovin’ BBQ in Marble, CO is the best in the region if you’re down for a bit of a road trip. It’s open seasonally late spring to fall.

• Private Sushi Chef: DM me for an amazing local sushi chef with years of experience working for Nobu in Aspen and in Tokyo. Great for gifting hosts or for celebrating special occasions.

• Mawa Kitchen: The only Black-owned restaurant in Aspen. Located outside of town near the Aspen airport, their cozy and packed brunch is worth the drive. Their pancakes and jerk chicken are insane. Dinner is prix fixe.

• Clark’s Oyster Bar: Happy hour at Clark’s never misses. $10 martinis, $12 burgers, $.50 off oysters…perfection. I can’t wait to try the new Malibu location.

• Bangkok Happy Bowl: for Thai takeout. I love their green curry.

• Bear Den: a go-to for brunch. It’s cozy inside, and outside on their mini porch if weather permits.

• Spring Cafe: organic, vegetarian-forward breakfast and lunch. I love their sweet potato white bean burger.

• Swedish Hill: eat a healthy, fresh lunch on the roof of the Aspen Art Museum. Great views of the mountain.

• Big Wrap: the locals’ lunch spot. $7 smoothies and $12 wraps or salads.

• Butcher’s Block: my favorite sandwiches in town.

• Eats on the Mountain: Ajax Tavern (tomato soup & grilled cheese or a burger) or Bonnie’s (famous pancakes) at Aspen Mountain; Sam’s (Italian) at Snowmass.

• Paradise Bakery: my favorite coffee in town. You can smell their delicious baked goods as you stroll around. There are long lines for their homemade gelato on a nice day.

• Felix & Saint Ambrose Coffee Bar are also great coffee spots.

• Little Nell: try their world famous hot chocolate. Rich and topped with whipped cream, homemade marshmallows, chocolate shavings…and liquor if you so choose.

Honorable Mentions:

• Dinners: Jing or Las Montanas for fun group dinners, Rubirosa for some NYC pizza

• Lunch: Public House, White House Tavern, Meat & Cheese

On my list:

• Angelo’s, Woody Creek Tavern, Poppycock’s, Louis Swiss Bakery

DRANK:

• Après: Ajax Tavern, Jade Room / Snow Lodge, Cloud Nine

• Cocktail: Hotel Jerome (Bad Harriet or the bar off their restaurant, Prospect), Il Baretto (Saint Ambrose Restaurant’s cocktail bar), Hooch

• Bar: Silver City, J-Bar, Aspen Brewing Company

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THINGS TO DO

Stores:

I’m all about the independent shops, and below are my favorites:

• Aspen Thrift: dig for treasures in this well-stocked thrift shop. There are ski clothes, used books, and lots more. I bought a necklace I wore on my wedding weekend here!

• Alderfer’s Antiques: the best eclectic antique store in town. They have great art, jewelry, and knickknacks.

• Pitkin County Dry Goods: the oldest clothing shop in Aspen. They have a wide assortment of contemporary labels; I prefer the men’s selection.

• Incline Ski & Board Shop: locally owned with great prices.

• Carl’s Pharmacy: serves as the town’s independent pharmacy and general store. I’m a CVS hater so enjoy strolling their aisles.

• Explore Books: owned by a non-profit, this sweet, independent bookstore is a stop I make whenever I’m in town. The cafe upstairs is a great place to work or get coffee.

Exercise

If skiing and hiking don’t have your legs crumbling, or an indoor workout is more your speed:

• Ajax Fitness: a well-equipped gym with a community feel, plus a sauna and cold plunge.

• O2 Aspen: heated mat classes or traditional reformer Pilates with a cult clientele.

Relax

• A1 Oriental Foot Massage: a no-frills, deep pressure foot and calf massage. A dream. Cash only.

• Hot Tub: if you’re staying somewhere without a hot tub, the W’s rooftop is free to access.

• Spa: if you are looking to ball out on a spa experience, the St. Regis gym and spa is insane.

Art

• Belly Up: an intimate music venue in town with great lineups.

• Wheeler Opera House: this historic venue hosts comedy, film, music, plays, and more.

• Aspen Art Museum: a contemporary art museum with rotating exhibitions in the center of town.

• Galleries: there are a lot of galleries throughout town. None of them appeal to me.

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MAP

As always, here’s a map highlighting all of the above, plus hotels and more.

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The song stuck in my head this week: