Category: Food, Wine & Hotel

Food, Glorious, Food

This weekend is the Los Angeles Times Celebration of Food & Wine to be held at Paramount Pictures studios on Sunday, September 5, 2010 from 12PM to 8PM. It’s going to be a fun filled day packed with panels and demonstrations featuring some of our city’s best chefs. We had the good fortune of getting to know three key L.A. food players who will be involved with this year’s event. Read on to learn more about chefs Suzanne Goin, Mark Peel and Jonny Shook – what they’ll be doing at the show this weekend, how they’ve become successful and how they give back to our great community.

Suzanne Goin

SUZANNE GOIN

Suzanne Goin is one very busy woman – raising three children and running three restaurants is her current life’s work. We spoke with Suzanne in anticipation of her demonstration at this weekend’s Los Angeles Times Celebration of Food & Wine. Suzanne is knee-deep in the restaurant business, because she owns three restaurants with Caroline Styne (Lucques, A.O.C, and Tavern) and she helps at her husband’s two restaurants (The Hungry Cat in Los Angeles and in Santa Barbara). But with her solid chef’s pedigree, including her two James Beard awards, she is thriving.

However, as we might expect, she does worry about balance, and has pangs of guilt about neglecting her restaurants, while raising her children. Happily, she has a ton of support. Both she and her husband have family nearby, and she even has a fish purveyor who sits with the kids.

We asked Suzanne what the key to her success has been, and she told us that from the beginning she and partner, Caroline Styne wanted “to open a restaurant that we would want to go to,” and to create a place that felt warm, comfortable and inviting. A.O.C. was created from Caroline’s love of wine, and their shared fondness for food, and especially cheese.

We talked about sourcing great food, and she said that produce is no problem in Los Angeles. It is easy to secure food that is local, organic and from a farm. There are several farms in the area, from North County San Diego to Santa Barbara, from which to choose. She gets great local chicken from Jidori Chicken, but has to go beyond the state to secure lamb from Colorado, and pork from Iowa.

Suzanne knows how much she has been blessed and is always eager to give back. She is participating in President Obama’s ‘Chefs Move to Schools’ program, and has enlisted the help of her crew of sous-chefs to meet the time commitment. They’ll be working at the Breed Street Elementary School in the Boyle Heights area of East L.A., where they’ll be helping the younger generation learn about cooking, food, flavor and how to feed themselves right.

For the event this weekend, Suzanne was paired with the McGrath Family Farms from Camarillo, CA. She has a long history with Phil McGrath, and says they have “pristine produce”. She’ll be making a raw succotash salad with raw corn and sliced summer squash, and she’ll also slow roast salmon and then top it with cherry tomato brown butter. ZOMG!! We can’t wait to try it!

MARK PEEL

Mark Peel has been in the food business for a long time. For 20 years, Mark focused on Campanile, the 2001 James Beard Foundation’s “Outstanding Restaurant of the Year.” However, to date he’s also created L.A. sandwich joint, The Point and dinner and cocktail haven, The Tar Pit. He’s also the co-founder of his former wife’s bakery business, La Brea Bakery. We caught up with him on Wednesday as he was on his way to the farmers market in Santa Monica. He’s doing a market menu where he decides what to serve based on what looks best at the market that day. From the market, Mark actually calls in the menu to the restaurant and staff types it out so it’s ready upon his return and for that night’s meal.

Mark’s an affable character with a youthful spirit. He seems to really enjoy his craft. That day at the farmers market he was looking forward to procuring peaches, nectarines and, of course, the late summer favorite – fresh tomatoes! We discussed sourcing meats and produce. Mark buys whole lambs from Sonoma, but also mentioned the benefits of buying meat at county fairs. Both Orange County and Los Angeles County have county fairs where kids in 4H clubs sell their livestock. This is truly the most loved animal you can consume – as Mark says, “they practically sleep with their livestock.”

Mark is preparing to present at this year’s Los Angeles Times Celebration of Food & Wine event. At the event, he will demonstrate how to prepare a meal using only an outdoor grill. The meal he’s planning to prepare sounds amazing. He’s grilling pork loin with pan fried potatoes with mustard greens. The potatoes will be flavored with bacon, while the mustard greens will simmer on the grill with garlic and onions.

When prompted to give his thoughts on the notion of community, Mark replies that all restaurants are local restaurants. Given that most of his business comes from the Hancock Park community – he really doesn’t expect residents of Brentwood to make their way over to his area. Rather, he thinks the best thing we can do to reach out to our neighbors in our own community is to organize a block party. He calls it an “overlooked catalyst,” a phenomena where people are drawn out of their homes and into the lives and hearts of their neighbors. Mark is also a philanthropist, and gives back to various charities including the American Cancer Society and Meals on Wheels. He also does smaller individual giving, such as working with high school students who show an interest in working with food.

Entrepreneur, businessperson, chef, innovator, good neighbor and philanthropist, Mark Peel is a true blessing on the City of Angels.

JON SHOOK

We had heard about the guys who run Animal. We had heard that they were young, and had generated a solid buzz with their attitude and food. We got a chance to get to know Jon Shook and discuss their ascent to star chef status. Jon was quick to remind us that he and Vinny Dotolo didn’t have success overnight, and that at times they had been homeless or couch-surfed while picking up work in the 11 years they have been cooking together. Since the opening of Animal they have garnered loads of press and industry awards. They were written up in The New Yorker earlier this year, which helped introduce them to a whole different stratosphere of diner demographics. They are now on their way to opening up their – yet unnamed – second restaurant, which will not be too far away from the first at their current location on Fairfax. The new spot is located on West Third Street near Joan’s on Third in between Orlando and Sweetzer. They are hoping to be open by late October/early November.

This weekend, they’ll be speaking on a panel discussing L.A.’s New Star Chefs with Michael Voltaggio, where they will ponder who will be the next Wolfgang Puck or Nancy Silverton. Jonny insists that L.A. is one of the hottest food towns in the country right now, with industry leaders such as Thomas Keller, Tom Colicchio and Rick Bayless all opening up Los Angeles outposts. He is eager to explain his reasoning, and sums it up with two words: produce and publicity. Los Angeles has unbridled access to quality produce and with its proximity to the television networks, the city offers a simple pathway to the national stage, and has the most “Top Chef” alumni in the country.

Jonny and Vinny try to give back to the community as much as they can. They spread themselves as far and as wide as possible. Their favorite non-profit to support is the TS Alliance, and every year they participate in the Comedy for a Cure event. They also maintain tight bonds and a kinship with fellow local chefs, including their first L.A. employer, Ben Ford. They also “allow” one intern at a time to help learn the craft.

They continue to give back through their support of the local food community and by buying all-local produce. They visit the farmers’ markets throughout town, but find California a difficult place to source beef. Unfortunately, it’s too hot and land is too expensive for cattle, so they end up getting their beef from Iowa. They also encounter some pretty odd supply chain management issues considering that they go through 60lbs of pig ears each week. You can imagine the logistical nightmare of that sourcing task!

Los Angeles Times Celebration of Food & Wine
• The event takes place on Sunday, September 5th (Labor Day Weekend) on the Paramount Studios Backlot
• Tickets are $55 in advance for general admission/$65 at the door – includes a branded glass, 8 tastings from exhibitors, access to all the panels, discussions and demos, the live music concert by She & Him with Angela McCluskey opening and to the food trucks, which will be selling more food options.
• Kids 9 and under are free with each paid adult ticket
• A portion of the proceeds will benefit Share Our Strength and the Los Angeles Times Family Fund
• Tickets available on the website www.latimes.com/foodwine

Aug 30, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

Stay Here Now – Shorebreak Hotel

Shorebreak Hotel - Huntington Beach

Surfs up at the Shorebreak Hotel in Huntington Beach. The hotel has become popular with the local surfer lifestyle corporate community for business meetings and retreats. And while it is appropriate for meetings, it’s also a great place to book a room for a weekend surf excursion. Located right across the street from the beach in Huntington, the Shorebreak Hotel is a modern, beachy boutique hotel owned and managed by the Joie de Vivre hospitality group.

The rooms are average size with a long, skinny layout. Many have balconies that face the ocean and overlook the PCH. Sadly, the noise of the traffic drowns out the sounds of the ocean but the view is spectacular and includes the Huntington Pier. The décor is modern and light. The bathrooms are large and amazing and have a huge tub that you’ll want to soak in for hours.

The hotel includes a fun place to eat and drink with their restaurant called Zimzala. If you’ve spent much time partying in Huntington Beach then you know that the scene is rather “Jersey Shore”ish but the scene at Zimzala is upscale elegant where you’ll feel out of place in cut offs and bikini tops. The crowd can still get noisy but there’s a deck area to sit outside and enjoy the peaceful ocean breeze.

Since it’s so close to the Strand (just one block over) you have access to all of the bars, shops and restaurants in that area which can be fun…so much fun that you’ll appreciate having a bedroom nearby.

Aug 14, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

Restaurant Guide — Summer 2010

BEVERLY HILLS

9021Pho
Nutritious and Delicious Vietnamese Fare to Beverly Hills

Kimmy Tang, the highly praised Euro-Asian chef, opened her latest restaurant, that features delectable dishes of healthy Vietnamese cooking.

9021Pho, named after the famous Vietnamese soup, caters to the health conscious food-lover, with tasty steamed dishes enhanced by the unique and beautiful food arrangements that Kimmy is renowned for. Kimmy set out to discover traditional recipes from Greece, Hungary, Spain, Romania, France, Italy, Germany, and also from her home-country of Vietnam, allowing her to expand her Asian cooking repertoire. We love the Saigon rolls; grilled beef wrapped in vine leaf, crispy on the outside, tastes like roast beef, delivered super hot, with crispy onions. Totally delicious!

Kimmy has fully dedicated herself to her new restaurant, shopping for the freshest ingredients each morning and constantly creating inventive new dishes, sure to satisfy any food aficionado. Located at 490 N. Beverly Drive, will allow food lovers to indulge in a healthy gourmet meal without breaking the bank. Open from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m Monday thru Saturday. (310) 275-5277 • www.9021pho.com

WESTCHESTER

Melody Bar & Grill

If you’re hungry, have some time to spare, or if you’re an LAX staffer just getting off work then head over to Melody Bar & Grill. Located just offsite from the airport on Sepulveda Blvd. (across from In-N-Out Burger), you will discover amazing food, a cool atmosphere and signature cocktails. Established in 1952 and under new management for the past couple years, Melody is an interesting mix of the old and the new. Watch your favorite sports teams on giant flat screens, play billiards in the game room, relax in the mahogany lounge, and get there using the shuttle service to and from the airport. Discounts are offered to day-of-flight travelers and LAX staffers. Additionally, they have comedy and karaoke nights as well as a variety of special events including Guitarology on Wednesday nights. Get there!
(310) 670-1994 • http://www.melodylax.com

MALIBU

Terra Restaurant

Terra Restaurant is raising the bar on exceptional food and wine—as they offered an experience worth remembering. Suzanne Summers, composer Carter Larsen, and Adam Gaynor formally of Matchbox 20 are just a few who enjoy their quality American cuisine in a warm and personable atmosphere with exceptional service. Owned and operated by David Price, Executive Chef Chris Bocchino and his wife Kristine, the restaurant offers three seating areas: the main dining room with a fireplace and a bar with stained-glass windows, high-top tables, and the popular covered patio with an ocean breeze.
(310) 456-1221 • www.terrarestaurantla.com

The Sunset
The Sunset Restaurant and Beach Bar on the beach at Zuma Beach in Malibu has been a lot of different establishments over the years. It’s been a barbershop and a t-shirt shop and changed hands many times. These days the same folks who own Moonshadows — another Malibu beach-based restaurant — own it. Gil Vasquez is the executive chef and they have re-done the menu and the interior. It’s beachy upscale in the upstairs area and beachy tavern on the lower level. You can’t really escape the beachy vibe when you are literally across the street from the beach. We enjoyed a Duck Confit Sandwich with pizza crust bread and a Carrot Orange Soup with orange blossom water — the flavors were delicate and fun. The place is really known for putting on special events — how would you like to get married in front of the Pacific Ocean and then walk over and have a huge celebration at The Sunset — sounds perfect! (310) 589-1007 • www.thesunsetrestaurant.com

SANTA MONICA

Upper West
Santa Monica’s newest hot-spot destination offers a sophisticated wine collection, a long list of tantalizing specialty cocktails and American Cuisine. It has a TriBeCa loft feeling with their urban yet rustic décor and an impressive 27-foot bar, which assures another round of adult beverage for you and your crew quick. It’s a great atmosphere to grab a drink, meet someone new or watch a game.

Owners of Upper West, Elad Benisti and Eyal Raziel, are both professional mixologist and have created a drink list with signature cocktails that have been featured in magazines and won numerous awards. Happy hour (5 – 7 pm) offers cocktails for $6 and PBR for $3.

Nick Shipp, the executive chef who worked under Wolfgang Puck, specializes in creating comfort food with outside-the-box twists. He draws from flavors and tastes of cuisines all over the globe, tying them together in eclectic fusion dishes. We recommend the Burrata Caprese ($11), Chile Spiced Salmon ($20) and the 6 hour Braised Short Rib “osso bucco” style.
(310) 586-1111 • www.theupperwest.com

LAX AIRPORT

Daniels Bistro + Bar OPENING
The recently completed reconstruction project of the arrivals area in the Tom Bradley International Terminal is truly spectacular with the rotating color walls similar to the exterior pylons and the time lapse flat screens — too cool! Front and center of the redone area is Daniels Bistro + Bar, the latest endeavor for airport concession experts, CMS Hospitality. The restaurant is just as cool as it’s surroundings and features a modern design, killer coffee, healthy and delicious food and inspired cocktails. It’s a perfect place to hang out while at LAX.

“CMS Hospitality Corporation brings a unique concept to our growing selection of dining options at LAX,” said Gina Marie Lindsey, LAWA executive director. “It’s great to offer our travelers a taste of California inspired-cuisine when they arrive at our airport or for family and friends waiting for arriving travelers.”

“Daniels Bistro + Bar offers an oasis where travelers can relax, enjoy good food and drinks in a comfortable and friendly environment,” said Clarence A. Daniels Jr., CMS Hospitality Corporation president and CEO. “The Bistro is here to welcome travelers and family and friends waiting for arriving travelers.”

We really loved the Espresso beverages and the California Cobb Salad, however the Proscuitto Pizza was delicious as well featuring Proscuitto, grapes, goat cheese and arugula.
310-215-4215 • www.danielsbistroandbar.com

WESTWOOD

The Glendon
The Glendon Bar & Kitchen is an upscale lounge-bar-restaurant, heavy on sophistication but without the velvet rope attitude located in the heart of Westwood is now open for business.

The décor and ambience epitomize laid back sexy with custom-made chairs and couches (designed by high-end furniture designer Jecco), vaulted ceilings displaying the original wood exposed in an artsy argyle pattern, and dimly lit crystal chandeliers.

The philosophy in creating The Glendon is simple. The founders, three young (and good looking) professionals with restaurant and nightlife backgrounds, kept searching in vain for the perfect “go to” Westside spot — a place to get a drink, take a date, or drop in late night. No problem — they opened it themselves.

The menu consists of California comfort staples with low calorie alternatives. We highly recommend the spicy California Crab Cakes ($12) served with avocado citrus puree, the fresh Prosciutto Asparagus ($12), and the delicious beef Slider Duo ($10) as appetizers. Individually, these appetizers are lite but ordering any two together could easily make a meal. The most unique item on the menu is the Coffee Crusted Seared Ahi served with spinach artichoke puree, Crimini mushrooms and a bed of greens. Again, this is a lite meal… but this means there is plenty of room in your belly for dessert.

Pastry chef Renee Faris of TLC’s “Cake Boss” fame signed on to create sugary confections that have Angelenos drooling. Try the Apple Currant Cobbler or the Flourless Chocolate Cake with rum infused whipped cream. YUM!

HOURS: 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM. Double nightly happy hours (at 4:00PM-7:00PM and 11:00PM). Lunch hours will be added.
(310) 208.2023 • www.theglendonla.com

Jun 16, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

Sam’s By The Beach — a little piece of dining heaven!

Sam Elias, owner of Sam’s By the Beach, in Santa Monica is one of the nicest and most hospitable restaurant owners that you’ll ever meet. He opened the restaurant in July 2000 as a neighborhood bistro and ten years later he has cultivated a strong loyal following. His restaurant is known by California insiders as a destination dining spot due to its’ hospitable ambiance coupled with the delectable recipes that he meticulously creates daily. He calls his food “true Mediterranean” and credits many of his recipes to his heritage, having grown up in Damascus. His menu consists of everything from Grilled Atlantic Salmon with braised Swiss Chard and roasted Jerusalem artichoke ($26.95) to Wild Mushrooms Salad served with watercress and fresh mozzarella cheese in lemon basil ($13.95) to Oven Roasted Cornish Hen that is marinated Turkish style in mustard and garlic and served with couscous and a lemon herb sauce ($25.95); all of them bursting with flavor. Sam greets each guest personally and truly embodies an old-school type customer service as he helps guests make their dinner choices and encourages them to relax, take their time and enjoy their dining experience. He says, “I try to develop a relationship with each client, going as far as to know them all by name. Service is all about knowing all of your clients and being able to cater to their needs.”

Sam Elias owner of Sam's By the Beach

Using only high quality ingredients is extremely important to Sam, and he goes to L.A.’s Central Market, which is open from 2 a.m. to 10 a.m., early each morning to get the freshest fares available for that evening’s meals. He knows most of the workers personally, and greets them by name. At the produce market he selects from colorful displays of fresh fruit and vegetables of every kind imaginable. The market has the most incredible variation of every type of produce available, from a plethora of various exotic mushrooms; to fresh berries; to pineapples from South Africa known for their candy-like taste; to heirloom tomatoes; to Persian cucumbers. He then usually heads to his personal favorite market, the fish market, where he selects various seafood such as fresh Tuna or live Maine lobster that he will use as ingredients for that evening’s meal. Very similarly, when he was a young boy in Damascus, he has fond memories of getting on a horse or donkey with his grandfather in the wee hours of the morning and riding around to visit all of the local farmers to see what they had for that day. His grandfather would put in an order of all sorts of items, and then they would go and have breakfast before riding back to pick up their orders so they could take them back to his grandmother who would use them to make delicious meals.

Sam’s By The Beach is located at 108 West Channel Road in Santa Monica, just East of Pacific Coast Highway. Reservations are suggested. Please call 310.230.9100. Sam’s is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday 5:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. and Sunday from 5:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m. Brunch is available on special holidays. If you are in Los Angeles, you absolutely MUST spend an evening at Sam’s By The Beach and enjoy the food and personal dining experience that will make you feel like you are a guest in a friend’s home. It is bound to be a dining experience that will keep you coming back for more.

Grilled Filet Mignon with Wild Mushroom fresh Herbs and Red wine Sauce

Jun 16, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

Enjoy a 1940’s Manhattan in 2010 Los Angeles

Considered the grand dame of Los Angeles hotels for nearly a century, the Millennium Biltmore Hotel is paying homage to its rich history by reinventing their long-famous Biltmore Cocktail menu from the 1940’s – a time when the hotel actually manufactured and bottled its own Kentucky Bourbon.

To honor this time period, the Millennium Mixologists have created the “Manhattan Menu,” consisting of six variations on the traditional cocktail, each with unique ingredients and a different type of bourbon. Visiting guests and locals alike can stop by the hotel’s Gallery Bar to sample the updated menu, and to visit the vintage cognacs and liqueurs from the hotel’s early days, including original samples of Biltmore Bourbon, a specially-made house blend from the 1940’s.

“We enjoy paying homage to our storied history with these kinds of touches,” noted Leslie Guettler, Marketing Manager. “The ‘40’s were a great time for the Biltmore. The Oscar ceremony was hosted here, and you saw everyone from Katharine Hepburn to Henry Fonda to Louis B. Mayer wandering the halls.”

Open nightly, The Gallery Bar serves specialty house martinis, vintage ports and cognacs, fine wine, beer and cocktails, with live jazz every weekend. And that deja vu you’re experiencing? You may have seen the Gallery Bar in silver screen hits The Italian Job, Rumor Has It and Blow, among others.

Millennium Biltmore Hotel
506 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90071
(213) 624 1011

Jun 16, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

W Hollywood — Luxurious, Swanky and Comfortable

It was just a matter of time before it happened and now it’s here. There is a W Hotel compound in the center of Hollywood. Finally, you can crash out somewhere comfortable, trendy and in the heart of it all. Finally, you can stumble out after a long night of partying and walk to a delicious and healthy breakfast at Café 24. Finally, you can take the subway to an A-list destination. Of course, this is a fairly swanky hotel that has a heavy emphasis on looking good and being cool so you’ll probably want to take the Panamera to show off in valet. Don’t forget to go on calorie restrictions for a week, and put on your best sexy face if you want to fit in, because this is the new hot-spot to see and be seen — Hollywood style.

Located at the corner of Hollywood and Vine and the largest LEED-compliant property in L.A., W Hollywood combines eco-conscious construction with stylish design, luxury finishes, dramatic views, modern art and premium services. And then there are the beds! Those W beds certainly leave you wondering how to create that level of comfort in your own home with a feather-top mattress, 350 thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets and goose down comforters. When you can pull yourself out of the bed, you can go down and people-watch in the ground-floor lounge or enjoy the outdoor terrace.

Although located in the heart of Hollywood with plenty to do and see, the W Hollywood has a lot to experience and explore within the property. There is the pool called WET which offers a place to relax, enjoy the sun and even pamper yourself with spa treatments conducted poolside. There is a state-of-the-art workout facility, SWEAT® where guests go to rejuvenate the mind and body and a BLISS spa offering luxurious spa treatments with the BLISS signature line of products. Love the lemon + sage body butter!

The hotel also has a nightclub called Drai’s Hollywood, which is owned and managed by Victor Drai — the same Drai of the after-hours scene in Las Vegas. The club is rather hot right now hosting a variety of Hollywood-type parties, but we’ve also heard that it gets a bit B & T on the weekend. We popped our head into the Sunday Pool Party and found it was full of jaw-dropping, good-looking Hollywood types.
So whether you are looking to party with the beautiful people, work-out and spa-out or just enjoy a really comfortable bed in the heart of Hollywood, the W Hollywood can cater to your every need — as long as it’s legal.

Jun 16, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

The London Hotel West Hollywood

The London Hotel in West Hollywood is a remarkable property. In a city where razzle and dazzle often trump classic style and substance, The London is built on class. They are not interested in becoming this season’s hot spot but they will offer you an oasis of sublime tranquility and proper English-style service in a city that can often be short on both. Located in the heart of West Hollywood just near the intersection of Sunset and San Vicente, the hotel boasts the best view of the city, from all angles, from its rooftop pool area. There’s fine or casual dining provided by internationally acclaimed Chef Gordon Ramsey. The rooms are spacious and inviting.

Designed by Waterworks, the bathrooms are incredibly large and feature mosaic tile from floor to ceiling, a large soaking tub and a shower area with two perfectly angled showerheads. There are tile covered columns and a large vanity area. Between the living area of the room and the bathroom is a wardrobe/dressing area that includes a sit-down vanity with an adorable oval shaped mirror. The bed is rich, yet comfortable and classic. Plush cotton bedding by Fili D’Oro of Italy embraces you in luxury. The living area boasts custom-designed furnishings, an embossed leather L-shaped couch, LCD flat-screen television, working area with complimentary Wi-Fi and a veined marble desk top, kitchenette and dining area. Each room has it’s own balcony, with amazing views of the city. This provides an area to simply chill out and enjoy the “perch”.

David Collins Studio is responsible for the exquisite décor throughout the property. David Collins is the Tom Ford of the designing world and has an impressive resume and reputation. Based in NY, David Collins Studios did The London in NYC, a sister property to The London West Hollywood. Says David, “Our vision is to challenge design and strive for innovation…creating spaces which comfort and stimulate through their beauty and simplicity”.

As far as complaints go there was some discussion about the size of the flat screen — it wasn’t entirely sports-watching appropriate and the gym was ordinary. While the pool area was absolutely sublime — especially in the early dawn, the gym did not inspire. Perhaps they could install a few treadmills in the pool area where guests could plan their day while overlooking their domain!

CUISINE

The food at The London Hotel is under the direction of chef Gordon Ramsay. This includes the fine dining room called Gordon Ramsay at The London West Hollywood, Boxwood Café, poolside dining and in-suite dining. Gordon Ramsey at The London West Hollywood is a Michelin-starred, upscale dining restaurant that features nouveau California inspired food.

“I’ve spent a lot of time in Los Angeles and have always enjoyed it, particularly its pace and energy,” says Gordon Ramsey. “I’m particularly excited to work with the produce that’s available on the West Coast — the quality is absolutely fantastic and perfect for our menu. I think the California approach to food is quite similar to mine: fresh ingredients… cooked simply and therefore packed with flavor.”

In addition, the dining room and bar are also styled by David Collins Studio. They’ve paired modern glossy elements with neutral materials, which allows for a beachy nouveau French vibe. Richly-stained wood and deep brown velvet compliment pastel pink and blue accents, while bright metallic shine against rustic woods and exposed brick barrel ceilings. It’s really quite brilliant.

THE POOL
The rooftop pool is really where it’s “going on” at The London Hotel. At the crack of dawn, a dip in the pool is most inviting. Complimentary coffee, fruit and muffins are set out for guests to enjoy. Again, styled by super guru, David Collins, it’s set up to emulate a traditional English garden and it does not disappoint. The panoramic rooftop sun deck with dazzling views of the Los Angeles skyline is mesmerizing. There are cabanas or lounge chairs placed around the pool. The deck is made of darkly-stained Brazilian Manguaruse wood. There’s a beautiful and soothing water wall that runs along the side of the pool.

A work of art, it’s made of tile and features delicate dancing lights. There’s also a fire pit and a “step-on” shower that shoots water upward with the press of your foot.
After work hours, the pool becomes an influential meeting spot where Beverly Hills and West Hollywood business people collide to forget about that proposal that’s due in the morning. Lifting a glass of bubbly at the end of a busy day is a great way to honor the successes of the day while stepping off the corporate grid for a moment. The setting is perfect for relaxing and toasting achievements — large or small. Overall, The London West Hollywood is a fantastic place to make your home, even just for a night, while in Los Angeles. Your stay will be most delightful, relaxing
and inspiring.

Jun 16, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

Beyond L.A. — South Bay Area

The delightful view of Cavallo Point

Can a former army barracks really be turned into an eco-friendly resort? Unbelievably, the Cavallo Point (www.cavallopoint.com) resort located on the grounds of the former Fort Baker, delivers green-conscious luxury right on the edge of San Francisco Bay. The U.S. Army liked the area so much it built a complex in order to strengthen the defense of the North side of the Golden Gate Bridge in the early 1900s and, thanks to the Golden Gate National Park system, visitors can now enjoy this spectacular location.

Guests can choose between historic, contemporary and main lodge accommodations — all are nice, but take my advice and get one of the restored historic King bedrooms facing the expansive grassy parade grounds and the skyline of San Francisco. These rooms have tons of period charm with fully modern amenities and bathrooms. When we stayed there, we spent comfortable hours in the Adirondack chairs in front of the former officer quarters relaxing and watching the numerous passing container ships and tugboats.

The resort features a Michelin-star restaurant and a comfortable bar. On a sunny day, get a table outside on the lodge verandah and enjoy Belgian beers and small plates. Make sure to book a dinner reservation at the main restaurant, Murray Circle — we are still talking about the duck main course.

The spa offers a “Zen-like” vibe at its quiet meditation pool (the staff will politely enforce using “your two-inch voice”) and treatments including “the best massage I have ever had” (actual quote from two of our party). Put Cavallo Point on your lodging list for San Francisco, especially for those of you who want to enjoy the Bay Area from a different vantage point.

Jun 16, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

Beyond L.A. — Southern Oregon Revealed

Crater Lake

“I can’t wait to see Crater Lake, Nic!” Mac exclaimed. I had mentioned several times to her that Crater Lake was often regarded as the eighth natural wonder of the world, and she was determined to see it for herself.

Noted in the journal of science (February, 1886), “the beauty and majesty of the scene at Crater Lake are indescribable.” This statement holds true today. Imagine a stunningly deep blue lake, securely held by nearly 2,000-foot cliffs, surrounded by incredible mountainous wilderness. What one sees is raw, simple, stunning beauty that cannot be captured by photograph or replicated on palette; it’s a sight worthy of personal witness.

When three gold prospectors, John Wesley Hillman, Henry Klippel, and Isaac Skeeters went charging across the landscape of southern Oregon in 1853, they couldn’t have felt any less astounded than we were upon seeing Crater Lake for the first time. Beyond hyperbole, Crater Lake is larger, bluer, more majestic, than can be described here. The experience of Crater Lake is as complex and layered as the composite volcano from which it was formed.

Crater Lake is named for the small crater at the top of Wizard Island, a large island near the west rim of the caldera. The lake was created when, about 7900 years ago, a vent arc opened up nearly 5,000 feet beneath Mount Mazama’s summit. Then 200 years later the violent eruptions began, many times stronger than Mount St. Helens. Wind blew clouds of dust, smoke and ash as far away as Montana. The massive Mount Mazama, which previously dwarfed all surrounding peaks, collapsed inward on itself. The molten debris and rocky fragments in the caldera, which then took decades to fill with rainwater, eventually came to equilibrium at the current depth. The lake is nearly 2,000 feet deep and reaches 6.25 miles in diameter. Today, you can now see further into the lake than anywhere else in the world, and it serves as a clear-lake barometer to study global impacts on other pristine environments.
Mount Mazama, and now Crater Lake, has always been a spiritual place for the people living nearby. In the Klamath and Tule tribes, it’s tradition to regularly seek spiritual growth through visits to the mountain. It is truly a special place, rich with Klamath lore of the mythical battle between Llao, Chief of the Underworld, and Skell, Chief of the Aboveworld. It’s always been a sacred spot and remains so today, thanks to the efforts of James Sutton, William Steel and, ultimately, Theodore Roosevelt who, on May 22, 1902, endorsed Crater Lake as a national park. Shortly thereafter, the Crater Lake Lodge was built — it was no longer necessary to carry six weeks worth of provisions to reach this stunning landscape.

Originally opened in 1915, the lodge withstood several renovations, the most recent in early 1990. Amid great fanfare, Crater Lake Lodge reopened to the public in 1995. Today, the lodge is well-managed and staffed by Xanterra Parks and Resorts where the genuine staff members come from across the globe to enjoy the stunning surroundings and provide first-class customer service.

Visitors may stay in either in a room at the historic Crater Lake Lodge or in a quiet and quaint cabin or campground at Mazama Village (a short drive from the rim). Either way, an atmosphere unique to the rustic northwest will surround guests. From enjoying coffee on the gigantic patio overlook, to touring the lake by boat (delighting in lunch on mysterious Wizard Island!) to winding around the rim road exploring over twenty lake lookouts, you will find activities to satisfy all curiosity levels.

On the website, Xanterra Parks and Resorts claims “Life is short. The world is large. And your vacation time is too precious to waste on the commonplace.” It’s so true! Driving up the side of the former Mount Mazama, on a clear late summer day and peering out over the arresting lake for the first time, you’ll understand why Crater Lake is anything but commonplace. Eighth natural wonder of the world? Check! www.xanterra.com

Wolf Creek Inn

We had been traveling down the valley after leaving Crater Lake, truck loaded with our hiking gear and flip-flops. The roller coaster hills leading into the valley were leaving us ready for a break, so having a nice place to kick back was just what we needed.

Looking for the perfect break from the Interstate? Just 123 miles east of Crater Lake, just north of Grant’s Pass, is Wolf Creek. If you’ve spent a good deal of time in Oregon, you might have seen Mt. Hood, the Columbia Gorge, or the north coast. This part of Oregon, although it is less traveled (which is actually a blessing), is a secret ready to be revealed. Nestled between steep green mountains patch-worked with orchards and vineyards, the Wolf Creek Inn is a bit of history preserved. Don’t miss this piece of history on your trip through southern Oregon.

Whether stopping in for a wholesome, home-cooked meal, or resting your eyes for a night or two, the Wolf Creek Inn is a perfect respite from the Interstate doldrums. Originally built by pioneer merchant Henry Smith, the Wolf Creek Inn has been welcoming weary travelers since 1883, including Jack London, Mary Pickford, Clark Gable, Robert Redford and Sir Anthony Hopkins.

The warm light spilling from the two-story building draws you in. Original paintings discovered in the Inn’s basement cover the walls, each offering a bit of Wolf Creek history. Yet even more charming than the authentic 100-year-old spur marks on the old oak floor is the family managing the longest running inn in the Pacific Northwest, Mark and Margaret Quist.

When they heard the inn might close, the Quists moved from Sacramento to Wolf Creek saving the historical icon for future generations. Now a family business, the innkeepers maintain the historical building and the quaint, comfortable rooms beautifully. Not only do they welcome you to the historic inn, you’ll also be treated like a member of the family.

A testament to its quality, the restaurant is a special occasion for locals looking for a delightful meal. Proud that no one will go home hungry, you will find generous portions of delicious local favorites, including a divine apple pie made from 125-year-old apple trees right outside the Wolf Creek Inn restaurant dining room window.

Just be careful, you might fall in love with it too and extend your stay! We knew it was a great place to visit, now we know why Mark and Margaret stayed. If you’re looking for rest and restoration, this enchanting historical inn, coupled with genuine warmth and hospitality will deliver. Have we mentioned the fresh coffee and homemade pastries waiting for you in the morning? Sweet dreams! www.wolfcreeklodge.com

Jun 16, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

Atlanta

When you think about Atlanta you think about a city steeped in historic American culture. Atlanta has seen it all — from land thievery of the Cherokee Nation nearly 200 years ago through the civil war and Gone With The Wind to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. From the civil rights movement to Jimmy Carter to the Olympics, Atlanta is about as American as you can get. But what is modern day Atlanta? It still has the busiest airport in the world, a ton of corporate headquarters and a lot of land but what is the soul of Atlanta all about? We went to explore.

Tourist Attractions

World of Coke
One big experiential advertisement for Coca-Cola and if you were not buying it before then you will be at the end. Cola-Cola is a major part of American history and it’s roots and operations are in Atlanta. The World of Coke is a Coke museum where you can learn all about the history of Coke, their charitable contributions, the secret formula and sample various flavors that are marketed around the world. At the end of the tour, you exit through a Coke memorabilia store where you’ll be eager to buy a shirt to show your newfound Coke pride.

Georgia Aquarium
Right next door to World of Coke is the Georgia Aquarium which is by far the most talked about tourist attraction in Atlanta and it’s really cool and reminded us a lot of the Long Beach Aquarium but perhaps a bit newer and shinier. The Georgia Aquarium is the world’s largest aquarium with more than eight million gallons of water and more aquatic life than any other aquarium. The five distinct galleries within the Georgia Aquarium depict five different habitats, ranging from arctic to tropical. Unlike most aquariums, the Georgia Aquarium does not follow a linear layout, instead allowing guests to decide their own path and the order in which they visit each gallery. The whole family will love it and every body will learn something new. A pleasant surprise at the Aquarium was the on-site eatery by Wolfgang Puck Catering.

W Atlanta Downtown Livingroom

W Atlanta Downtown Drinkshop

W Atlanta Downtown WET

Hotels
W Atlanta Downtown
Located in the heart of downtown, near the Olympic Village is the W Atlanta Downtown, which is in a big modern sky rise. It’s swanky and the best part of the hotel is the hip drinking establishment, DRINKSHOP. Energized by W style music and it’s modern decor, your eyes will travel along the really long table that runs nearly the entire lenght of the room. The drinks are what make the place special. They use the best ingredients and make their mixes from scratch. The ice that they use is just a single sphere of ice that fits in the glass, there is less surface area and therefore less water drainage into the cocktail. The rooms are typical W style with super comfortable beds and Bliss amenities.

Hotel Indigo
Dog friendly, this establishment embraces all with warm hospitality from every member of the gracious staff. Located in midtown, it was an old gentleman’s club in 1923 so the building is remarkable. In 2004 they gutted it, redecorated and created the first Hotel Indigo. The consultants they hired to help develop the concept had a retail background instead of a hospitality background so you’ll notice the lobby is more like a shop than a typical hotel lobby. The set up encourages guest interaction. The dog service at this hotel is unparalleled. They offer dog beds, dog treats, vegan and diabetic dog food options and canine cocktails. They are so pet-friendly, even Dr. Jane Goodall stays there.

Hilton Atlanta
The Hilton Atlanta has recently undergone a beautiful renovation. The hotel is located in the heart of downtown and is known for their incredibly comfortable rooms. They are the type of rooms where you can spend a night, a day or a week and you can focus on getting work done, attending a convention or relaxing in the Hilton Serenity® Bed and slipping off to the hospitality floor for breakfast and light snacks through out the day. The newly renovated guest rooms with warm neutral accents and dark wood furnishings feature all the expected amenities of a large corporate hotel.

Cuisine
The restaurant scene in Atlanta can be urban upscale or down home experience. We wanted to try “Southern Cooking” style food so we headed to Mary Mac’s Tea Room and we were treated to a feast! If you’ve never been there before then they automatically bring you out some soup and corn bread. The corn bread has actual chunks of pig fat in it. It’s really delicious and you feel like your heart is going to explode. They bring out three types of bread before dinner including cinnamon buns. Yes, you are allowed to eat dessert before your salad. Some other highlights of the menu are fried okra, fried green tomatoes — typical Southern fare. Great experience but way too much food.

Other restaurants include The Varsity as an Atlanta fixture. We heard that it was possible to see the Mayor there but when we tried to stop by for lunch it was madness. It’s a bar hop burger joint that had a line that was at least twenty people deep. We decided to go somewhere else. Vortex is a good place for burgers and beers — it’s “very Atlanta”. Engine 11 is a fire station pub with a fun atmosphere. The rapper, Ludacris, has a restaurant called Straits, where they serve upscale southern food.

Jun 16, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

Category: Food, Wine & Hotel

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