Culturistas: la restaurants

Showing posts with label la restaurants. Show all posts

Showing posts with label la restaurants. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Two new great Sushi Happy Hours in LA!

The Culturistas love Sushi, it happens to be one of our favorite cuisines. Delicious AND figure friendly. And even more than Sushi- we love a good happy hour. So of course we were thrilled with these new finds. Both found in West Hollywood, Omi Sushi and Crazy Rock'n Sushi are fab places to get delicious sushi/sake/beer for a great price.

We love this place for their fab happy hour menu. Prices are great on the sushi and even better on the sake- A large sake is $1.75!!! Happy hour goes from 4pm to 9pm- which is great for people that have later work hours. We recommend the "Red Rock" (crispy rice with spicy tuna and jalapeno) "Crazy Tuna Roll" And "Omi Crunch Roll" Check out their happy hour menu here: http://omisushila.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/omihappyhourfinal.jpg

Omi Sushi

8163 Santa Monica Boulevard

West Hollywood, CA 90046

(323) 654-1056

I tend to judge a sushi place on the freshness of their Spicy Tuna Roll- since it happens to be my favorite basic. And at Crazy Rock'n Sushi is it soooo good and fresh. Even better- their happy hour lasts all day from 12pm-10pm. Try specialty rolls such as: The Sweet Love Roll, and Spicy Tuna Tempura- yum!

Crazy Rock'n Sushi

7100 Santa Monica Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90046

(323) 882-8247

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Dine LA Restaurant Week Oct 2010

It's that time a year again- a blissful time in Los Angeles where we can eat at many of the city's top restaurants for better prices! Lunches range from 16-28 dollars and Dinners are 26-44 dollars.

Some of our favorite restaurants included in are- Asia de Cuba, Luna Park, Campanile, Katsuya, Ketchup, and Rush Street . Other notables on the list: Jar, Bouchon, The Bazaar by Jose Andres, Nobu, and Susan Feniger's Street.

Check out the Dine LA menus: Here

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Restaurant Profile: The Westside Tavern

The Westside Tavern is found on the bottom floor of the Westside Pavillion. It's modern take on California Tavern cuisine fits perfectly in its large contemporary space. California Tavern Cuisine is basically a mash-up of the high and low, i.e. a French Dip sandwich using lamb and a rosemary au jus. The restaurant takes comfort food to a gourmet level. And complete with a blackboard on the wall announcing the specials of the day, you feel quite at home at The Westside Tavern.

The menu consists of delicious soups and salads, flat breads and amazing sandwiches, along with typical fish and meat dishes with a twist. Everything is fresh and delicious with great flavor. Enjoy their cocktail specialties and many beers on tap.

The Westside Tavern does not take reservations- however wait times usually don't take too long considering the size of the restaurant. Make it a movie night too (The Landmark theaters are upstairs!)

The Westside Tavern

10850 West Pico Boulevard

Los Angeles, California 90064

310.470.1539

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Restaurant Profile: Cafe Laurent in Culver City

Cafe Laurent serves up delicious French cuisine in its quaint Culver City location. Sunday brunch features live jazz on the patio and breakfast served all day (with no lunch). The breakfast menu has items like fluffy omlettes, gorgeous waffles, divine quiches and MUST try potato Gratin Dauphinois.

The food is so rich and tasty that even with more 'European' portions you will leave very satisfied! With its very reasonable prices and short to no waiting on seating, this neighborhood gem is a must try!

4243 Overland Ave

Culver City, CA 90230

(310) 558-8622

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Restaurant Profile: A.O.C. Los Angeles

The casual yet refined atmosphere is the setting for this wine bar/restaurant. The restaurant, A.O.C. is named after the French wine designation, "Appellation d'Origine Controlee," and is focused on their extensive wine list (by the glass/carafe or bottle) and gourmet Mediterranean style small plates. The bacon wrapped dates are worth the trip alone- though everything on the menu is unique and delicious.
Their small plates make it easy to share and taste many items on the menu. So enjoy them all with a flight of wine!

8022 W. 3rd Street

Los Angeles

323-653-6359

Monday, April 5, 2010

Umami Burger: LA Burger Scene

In the hunt for the best gourmet burger in Tinsel Town, Umami Burger is up there at the top. With crafty and delicious creations such as the Truffle Burger (made with Truffle cheese and truffle oil) or it's namesake Umami Burger (pictured above with a Parmesan crisp) as well as veggie and turkey options- there is something for everyone to try. Also try their hand cut fries and malt liquor tempura onion rings. Delish! And with several locations all over LA- it shouldn't be a problem finding one near you!

Know before you go: be prepared to wait- the restaurants are on the small side.

Order your burger medium or medium well if you don't want it coming out bloody!

The burger can look small to us Americans- but its so rich you will be full!

850 S La Brea Ave

Los Angeles, CA 90036

(323) 931-3000

4655 Hollywood Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90027
(323) 669-3922

1520 N. Cahuenga Bl #7
Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 469-3100

in Fred Segal
500 Broadway
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 451-1300

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Restaurant Profile: Fred 62

Fred62 is a 24/7 365 days a week retro-kitsch diner in Los Feliz. The decor is very 1950's, with its old-fashioned counter, it's ice cream fountain and even it's car seat like booths. And if you haven't been here for some late night grub or some delicious comfort food, you are missing out!

They have all the typical breakfast staples: Eggs, French Toast, Pancakes, Waffles and even Matzo Brie. Plus they have delectable lunch and dinner options like Grilled Cheese, Hamburgers, and other Sandwiches. And the beer battered onion rings are to die for! The menu is so large, there is something for everyone. Fortunately or unfortunately, you would be hard pressed to find a healthy option on this menu. And that's really not the point of Fred62.

Know before you go: Parking can be tricky, look for neighborhood street spots. The wait isn't usually long unless you decide to go at 2 am on a Friday or Saturday night.

1850 N Vermont Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90027

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Restaurant Profile: Wurstküche in Downtown LA

Wurstküche, meaning sausage kitchen in German, resides deep in downtown Los Angeles. Seeing tons of people waiting in line for their already famous sausages, in a somewhat desolate area of downtown, only adds to its appeal. If you are picturing a cheesy German brewery, like I did, you couldn't be more wrong.

Ambiance: After you wait in line to order your food, you walk through a hall into a giant loft space to claim your seats. Unfortunately this is the tricky part. Although the space is large, there are tons of people there too! However while you wait for a table and your food you can enjoy the full bar inside (with tons of beers on tap!) and a DJ playing music.

The food: With delicious, yet safe choices like Sun Dried Tomato & Mozzarella - smoked chicken & turkey, or SantaFe Jack Cheese & Jalapeño Peppers - smoked turkey. They also have the exotic sausages like Rattlesnake & Rabbit with Jalapeño Peppers or Alligator & Pork, Smoked Andouille Sausage. So try something daring or play it safe. They even have vegetarian options! Get your sausage with an order of fries and make sure you try the whole grain mustard sitting at the table.

800 E. 3rd St

LA, CA 90013

213-687-4444

Hours: Sunday 12pm-Midnight

Mon-Sat 11am- Midnight

Monday, January 25, 2010

Dine LA Restaurant Week: Jan/Feb 2010

DineLA Restaurant week is back! From January 24th-29th and then the 31st- February 5th. For those of you that don't know: restaurant week is one of our favorite weeks in LA where we can have a set three course meal at our favorite restaurants for a fraction of the price. Each restaurant has either one, two or three dollar signs. The price list is below:

		Lunch	Dinner
$	Deluxe Dining:	$16	$26
$$	Premier Dining:	$22	$34
$$$	Fine Dining:	$28	$44

Some of the great restaurants on the list are: Asia de Cuba ($$$), Campanile ($$), Ciudad ($$), Ford's Filling Station ($$), Luna Park ($), Jiraffe ($$$), Joe's ($$), Susan Fenigar's Street ($$), and The Bazaar ($$$). Check out the rest of the list and more information about Restaurant Week: Here

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Restaurant Profile: Square One Dining LA

Square One Dining is a little restaurant in an odd section of Hollywood that you might pass right by and never know of it's epicurean delights. Except if you drove by on Saturday or Sunday mornings when a line forms out the door. And trust me it is worth the trek to East Hollywood and waiting in line to taste the food.

From Top Left: Two scrambled eggs with toast, salad and canadian Bacon. Brioche French Toast with Strawberries and Whipped Cream. Breakfast Sandwich with sausage patty or bacon, two scrambled eggs, frisee, tomato and aioli. Lunch Chicken Sandwich with portabello mushroom confit, truffled aioli, gruyere cheese, arugula and shaved red onions.

The breakfast and lunch specialties will surely have you talking. The ingredients are fresh, the food creative and delicious and the ambiance is quaint and friendly. The prices aren't bad either! They utilize organic, local, and small farm produce when possible AND all of our meat products are hormone free. All great reasons to support this restaurant!

Tip: If you hate waiting for a table try to go a bit later in the day- don't worry breakfast is served all day.
Tip: And get a table on the back patio- it's super cute!

Square One Dining

4854 Fountain Avenue

Los Angeles, CA 90029

t 323.661.1109

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Restaurant Profile: The Veggie Grill

The newest Veggie Grill location can be found at Crescent Heights and Sunset blvd. Although I am not a vegetarian, this place pique my interested as it boasted items like, a Crispy Chicken Sandwich and Carne Asada. I am weary of fake meat options just because I am a meat eater and they never taste the same- but I am happy to report the chefs here have worked wonders!

The food at Veggie Grill is fresh, tasty and unexpectedly delicious. I did not believe my chicken sandwich would taste just like a chicken sandwich- but it did. So for vegetarians and carnivores- this is a restaurant for both of you!

If you're looking for a healthy and tasty meal- Veggie Grill is a must try! We recommend the Santa Fe Crispy Chicken Sandwich or the Grillin' Chicken Sandwich with Sweetheart Fries. Their Fresh Squeezed Lemonade is also delicious!

8000 Sunset - Los Angeles

8000 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 | map

Phone 323.822.7575 | hours 11am to 11pm

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Dine LA Restaurant week FALL 2009

The first ever DineLA restaurant week taking place in the Fall coincides with one of the toughest economic climates the US has had in decades. Is this coincidence? I think not. While I still participated in last years dineLA week- I was sorely dissapointed in the number of restaurants there were to choose from. But this year, Los Angelinos will be happy to know, that number has grown exponentially. Not only are their more restaurants on the list this year, the quality of those restaurants has me very excited. New notables to the list: Craft, Crustacean, The Bazaar by Jose Andres, Spago, and Jiraffe. So the Culturistas would love to do their part to stimulate the restaurant industry by just dining out and taking advantage of these great deals :)

Some restaurants such as Ford's Filling Station, Luna Park and Taste on Melrose participate year after year with much success. Ben Ford, Chef Owner of Ford's Filling Station (and also Harrison Ford's son) says, "dineLA Restaurant Week was a huge success and brought many new customers to us this year. The event really showcases the variety, creativity and quality of the LA restaurant scene, and we look forward to being involved again."

The Pricing is as follows:

Lunch/Dinner
Deluxe Dining ($): $16 $26
Premier Dining ($$): $22 $34
Fine Dining ($$$): $28 $44

Dine LA week starts tomorrow (Oct 4th- 9th) and then continues Oct (11th-16th). See participating restaurants and their menus here

Friday, August 21, 2009

Restaurant Profile: Spitz

Spitz is a quasi-fast food restaurant with two locations in LA, Eagle Rock and Little Tokyo. They serve "Doner Kebob" which is street food commonly found in Europe, originating in Turkey. Their sandwiches are made up of either Chicken, a combo of Lamb and Beef or Falafel. The meats are slow roasted and then shaved off to put into wraps or sandwiches. The restaurant has been attracting hungry people since 2005 when owners Bryce Rademan and Robert Wicklund opened their first location in Eagle Rock.

For a modest 9-10 dollars, you get a Doner Kebob sandwich, a drink and one of their yummy sides. The sweet potato fries and the pita strips are both GREAT choices! They also have salad options as well as a Doner Plate option. And while you technically get your food quickly and it is inexpensive- the food at Spitz is great quality- so it is far from "fast food."

They have happy hour specials from 3pm-7pm everyday of the week! $4 Sangria, $1 Pita Strips with Hummus $3 draft beer! They also have a student discount- so bring your ids!

Spitz in Eagle Rock
(323) 982-8869
2506 Colorado Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90041

Spitz in Little Tokyo
(323) 613-0101
371 E. 2nd St
Los Angeles, CA 90012

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Restaurant Profile: Ramos House Cafe

The Ramos House Cafe is in San Juan Capistrano. It's nestled in the heart of the Los Rios historical district (right at the train station). This makes for a perfect day trip from LA! The restaurant has been serving contemporary American cuisine in a building dating back to 1881. What is also interesting about the house- is it is run just like the old days (where the owner actually lives in the house, the herbs are grown on the property and the ice cream is even churned out back). The menu, American with a Southern influence, is very small, can change daily and is seasonal. But the food is excellent. Every dish is tasty, flavorful and interesting. Breakfast and Lunch are served all day during the week (Tues-Fri, closed Mon) and serve only a set course brunch on the weekends, which is 35 dollars a person.

[The menu booklet at the Ramos House Cafe]

It's a beautiful restaurant that really makes you feel part of American history when you visit. If you decide to take a day trip dont forget to check out what San Juan Capistrano has to offer:

The Mission- founded in 1776
Self-guided walking tour of the historical district

The Ramos House Cafe
ramoshouse.com
31752 Los Rios St
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

(949) 443-1342

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Restaurant Profile: Joe's

Joe's is a comfortable yet elegant restaurant in Venice that serves up delicious gourmet cuisine. It sits on Abbot Kinney Road which is a great beach-y area to walk around and enjoy the surrounding shops. Therefore you can't expect the restaurant to be too formal, judging by the inhabitants of the Venice community. This fact makes Joe's even more charming. The restaurant is far from pretentious but yet serves the same type of delicious and innovative food. Executive chef and owner, Joe Miller, even goes around to the tables to say hi and greet guests. Great touch.

Now lets get to the good part: The food!! Although the menu is small it seems that every dish is a winner. I was able to try the tuna tartar (fresh and mouthwatering!), the burrata appetizer (very creamy mozzarella and heirloom tomatoes), and the mushroom ravioli (exqusite!). The prime sirloin steak was also delicious (served on a bed of mashed potatoes and cripsy artichoke). The Jidori chicken was so tender and very subtle in its flavor.

Tips:
Parking is scarce so i'd probably splurge on the $5 dollar valet.
Make sure to get a table on the terrace/back garden
Skip dessert and take a walk on Abbot Kinney for ice cream.
Corkage is $20 per bottle but it still could be worth it to bring your own

Joe's

1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd
Venice, CA 90291
(310) 399-5811

www.joesrestaurant.com

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

FREE BURRITOS AT BAJA FRESH TONIGHT!

Hey LA friends! Tonight until 9:00 PM you get a FREE burrito with the purchase of any regular size drink and the promotional code is facebook. Take your hungry little butts over to Baja Fresh and eat some burritos for those of us on the East Coast that are deprived of good cheap Mexican food! Bon Appetit!

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Ice Pan: the newest dessert with options!

A friend to vegans and dieters alike, Ice Pan is the ice cream shop in the Santa Monica and La brea target center. If you haven't been inside- Ice Pan offers a new way to eat ice cream. First you choose your flavor- Vanilla, Chocolate, strawberry, green tea, kiwi, banana, yogurt, lemon, coffee, and mango. Then you decide what type of milk: whole, non-fat, low fat or soy. Finally you choose your toppings/mix ins- 15 different types like strawberries, chocolate chips and granola. There are two sizes: 7 oz for $4.95 and 9 oz for $5.95.

Then the magic happens- they make the ice cream from scratch right in front of you! To watch how its made check it out here. The ice cream is also all natural and uses fructoligosaccharide (sweetener derived from fruits and vegetables) instead of cane sugar or syrup. I had the non-fat vanilla ice cream with strawberries mixed in. I must say- for being from non-fat milk it was really creamy and delicious. I liked the vanilla flavoring- but next time i'd try something new.

To find out more about Ice Pan, go to their website here: icepanusa.com

Ice Pan
7100 Santa Monica Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90046
(323) 883-0267

Monday, July 6, 2009

Recession Friendly Eats: LA Edition

In this economy, some people might be having trouble eating out as much as they used to. But us Culturistas love dining out. From a hole in the wall treasure to the latest gourmet restaurant in the city, finding new restaurants and tasting different cuisines is one of our favorite things to do. So if you are looking for a good deal but also some good eats- try these restaurants in LA! Check out our other happy hour features: Here

Rush Street
“Rush Hour Premium Happy Hour”: Premium liquor and draft beer for $5 from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday (well drinks are $3). DJ upstairs.
9546 Washington Blvd., Culver City, (310) 837-9546, www.rushstreetculvercity.com.

Citizen Smith
This popular after hours eatery and bar features 50% off lunches and dinners on Mondays! The Southern-style comfort food is served up gourmet for it's posh LA audience.
1600 N Cahuenga Blvd, Hollywood (310) 461-5001

South
“Recession Thursdays”: On Thursdays from 5 p.m. to midnight, $1 grilled cheese sandwiches (with potato chips), $2 pulled pork, chicken or beef brisket sandwiches (with chips). Happy hour ’til midnight includes $2 “mystery shots.”
All-you-can-eat ribs: Mondays from 5 to 10 p.m., for $12, all-you-can-eat ribs.
3001 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, (310) 828-9988, www.southsantamonica.com.

Craftbar at Craft
Chef Matt Accarrino opened a new bar at Craft where everything on the menu is 9 dollars or less! Sure they are small portions, but they promise to be satisfying. Check out the menu here: Craftbar Menu
10100 Constellation Blvd., Century City, 310-279-4180

Luna Park
Sun-Thursday nights: Blue Plate Special! Items from 10-12 dollars and drinks at 5 dollars. Follow them on twitter for even more discounts (like 50% off your meal!) Luna Park Twitter
672 S. La Brea, Los Angeles 323-934-2110

The Bazaar by José Andrés at the SLS Hotel
The restaurant has extended its DineLA Restaurant Week offer indefinitely: four courses for $45 per person. First course: jamón serrano with “Catalan style” toasted bread with tomato and olive oil or “organized Caesar salad” with quail eggs and Parmesan cheese; second course: “croquetas” (chicken and bechamel fritters) or “not your everyday Caprese salad” (cherry tomatoes and liquid mozzarella); third course: sautéed shrimp with garlic and guindilla pepper or hanger steak with piquillo pepper confit; fourth course: traditional Spanish flan with fresh cheese and fruit or assorted bonbons.
465 S. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, (310) 247-0400, www.thebazaar.com

Ketchup
While their usual menu can get quite pricey they are offering 50% off Sundays. Try the mac and cheese, it is to die for!
8590 Sunset Blvd in West Hollywood (in the Sunset Mall). 310.289.8590

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Poketo Pop-up shop at Royal T Cafe: LA

“Poketo Pop-Up Shop”

Poketo is a designer of limited edition art products, accessories, apparel, and decor. Founded by Ted Vadakan and Angie Myung, Poketo promotes the work of top international artists by showcasing original artwork through their fun and accessible wares. Affordable Art!! The Culturistas love that!

Shop Duration: From June 27th to July 18th 2009

Events
Opening day celebration and sale: June 27th, Saturday 11 - 4 PM
Poketo Karaoke Dance Party: July 10th, Friday 9 PM - 1 AM

At Royal/T: 8910 Washington Blvd. Culver City, CA 90232

Royal/T is a playful collision of spaces—café/shop/art space. An eclectic mix of retail and contemporary art re-imagined in the surrounds of LA's first Japanese-style cosplay café. The perfect place for this type of event!

The opening day celebration on Saturday, June 27th will include:

• A storewide sale of 25% off on all Poketo items.
• First 50 guests to arrive will receive a free gift bag.
• A special artmaking workshop with James Gulliver Hancock and APAK.
• Launch of APAK wallets, t-shirt, and cafe mug. And a new shirt by James Gulliver Hancock.
• Poketo curated menu for the Royal/T cafe inspired by Japanese street foods.

For more info, visit: www.poketo.com or www.royal-t.org

Branch Earrings, $40/ Feather Tote $30

The Middeltons Plate Set, $40

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Luna Park

Luna Park is an intimate and sexy restaurant with bohemian decor, a lively bar scene, and delicious cuisine. The menu, is very eclectic- with French, Italian, American and Asian dishes- anyone could find something appealing to them. You cant really go wrong with any choice here- but some standouts are the Pizzas, the Hangar Steak, and the amazing desserts. Try the 'make-your- own-s'mores' or the fried apple pie--amazing and perfect to share. They also have great signature drinks like the mojito or white sangria.

It's a great place to come with friends--enjoy their specialty drinks and loud atmosphere. But if you plan on having intimate conversation- request one of their curtained booths.

Parking: It's usually not a problem to find street parking on La Brea (free after 7). But Luna Park does have a valet for $4.50 as well.

Discounts: This weekend I was able to get 50% off my bill at Luna Park by following them on Twitter or Facebook. So take advantage!

Luna Park
672 S. La Brea (near Wilshire)
Los Angeles, CA 90036
tel: 323.934.2110

Luna Park
694 Valencia Street (near 18th)
San Francisco, CA, 94110
415.553.8584

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