September 8, 2009

Hotel Erwin Los Angeles

Move over, Lords of Dogtown. Venice Beach has a new king: Part beach house, part art gallery, the latest boutique lodge from design-conscious Joie de Vivre offers travelers a comfy place to crash with fresh, seasonal American fare and cocktails from Hash restaurant and spectactular views from rooftop bar High.

  Venice, Food & Drink, Beachy, Great View

September 8, 2009

The Tasting Kitchen Los Angeles

When life hands you lemons (or a shell of a restaurant that’s been abruptly vacated due to irreconcilable culinary differences), make lemonade (as in a new chef and team creating a special test menu that changes its offerings, wines, and cocktails every week until things setttle down).

  Venice, Food & Drink, Neighborhood Gem

September 8, 2009

Cora's Coffee Shop Los Angeles

  Downtown Santa Monica, Food & Drink, Alfresco, Breakfast

September 8, 2009

Fountain Coffee Room Los Angeles

  Beverly Hills, Food & Drink, Breakfast, Lunch Spot

September 8, 2009

Essex Public House Los Angeles

What’s the brew-haha all about? Could it be Essex Public House in Hollywood with more than 40 specialty beers from which to choose? Twenty wines by the glass? Chicken and biscuits with sweet English peas and gravy? Or maybe the modern British pub reinvisioned for California digs? Yeah, that’s it.

  Boulevard Heights, Food & Drink, Bar Menu, Beer

September 8, 2009

The Griddle Cafe Los Angeles

Pancakes take the cake with coffee and bacon following close behind.

  Center City, Food & Drink, Breakfast, Brunch

December 15, 2008

Nickel Diner Los Angeles

Home of the bacon doughnut. (There’s so much more to say about the unassumingly darling diner, but let that be reason enough to trek to Skid Row.)

  Central City East, Food & Drink, Lunch Spot