It's hard to be ordinary, when in fact you're extraordinary... and here's where Philippe steps "up to the plate!"
The oldest and best known restaurant in Southern California has been family owned and operated since 1908... and that's incredibly hard to beat.
Located in the heart of downtown at the crossroads of North Main, Alameda and Ord streets- a block from Union Station and walking distance to City Hall, Chinatown, Little Tokyo, and Olvera Street.
Diners come to Philippe's for the nostalgia as much as for its famous French Dip Sandwiches. Its recipe and preparation has been passed on through four generations and today it is being overseen by dynamic great-great-great grandson Andrew Binder, who is at the helm as manager/partner.
Other famous menu Dip items include, lamb, turkey, pork, ham and pastrami. Tasty sides include potato and macaroni salad, coleslaw and kosher dill pickles.
Philippe is located at 1001 N. Alameda in L.A. Phone (213)628-3781 or www.philippes.com
Open seven days a week from 6 a.m. (open for breakfast) to 10 p.m. except Thanksgiving and Christmas.. Phiippe sells about 2200 sandwiches on weekdays and 3800 on weekends, and 80 gallons of their famous hot mustard a week.
Monday, February 20, 2017
Friday, February 17, 2017
Loveblock and Wolf
What a delight to be the lunch guest of the vivacious and knowledgeable Erica Crawford, founder and CEO of Loveblock Vintners in New Zealand. created along with her husband and winemaker Kim, (both renowned veterans of the amazing New Zealand wine industry.) Along with an astonishing resume of accomplishments, they established Loveblock sustainable wines back in 2004, planting new vineyards in an untamed pasture where sheep used to graze. It brought back wonderful memories for me as I had the opportunity visit Marlborough Atwatere Valley on a recent visit to New Zealand, known for its pristine vineyards surrounded by jagged mountain peaks, brilliant blue skies, crystal clear inlets, and a long, cooling growing season.
The pairing of this wonderful experience took place at Wolf, replete with a contemporary vibe set at the eclectic crossroads of Melrose in Hollywood, an absolutely perfect venue to present a culinary adventure inspired by the energy of Owner and Executive Chef Marcel Vigneron, along with manager Sean Perman, who joined forces and created the incredible menu to enhance Loveblock and complete the delicious and delightful experience.
Chef Marcel has dedicated his life to gastronomy and honing his skills as a chef. He is an artisan who has an affinity for culinary knowledge, who uses a knife as a extension of his hand, and the kitchen as a workshop, the earth as a grocery store. He works with small, local family farms committed to sustainable agriculture, responsible production and promotion of fruits and vegetables.
We enjoyed Hamahi Crudo, nuoc cham,radish,herbs and puffed rice, along with a smooth Sauvignon Blanc; Mushroom Risotto with pine nut, sorrel, peas, pancetta accompanied by Pinto Gris;An amazing Braised Beef Cheek with jerusalem artichoke, endive, turmeric peppercorn sauce, present alongside an incredible Pinot Noir. Blueberry Souffle with quince sorbet was the "icing on the cake!"
Wolf, adjacent to a restaurant named Beefsteak is located at 7661 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90446. They are open for dinner only, phone (323)424-7735 for hours and more information.
The pairing of this wonderful experience took place at Wolf, replete with a contemporary vibe set at the eclectic crossroads of Melrose in Hollywood, an absolutely perfect venue to present a culinary adventure inspired by the energy of Owner and Executive Chef Marcel Vigneron, along with manager Sean Perman, who joined forces and created the incredible menu to enhance Loveblock and complete the delicious and delightful experience.
Chef Marcel has dedicated his life to gastronomy and honing his skills as a chef. He is an artisan who has an affinity for culinary knowledge, who uses a knife as a extension of his hand, and the kitchen as a workshop, the earth as a grocery store. He works with small, local family farms committed to sustainable agriculture, responsible production and promotion of fruits and vegetables.
We enjoyed Hamahi Crudo, nuoc cham,radish,herbs and puffed rice, along with a smooth Sauvignon Blanc; Mushroom Risotto with pine nut, sorrel, peas, pancetta accompanied by Pinto Gris;An amazing Braised Beef Cheek with jerusalem artichoke, endive, turmeric peppercorn sauce, present alongside an incredible Pinot Noir. Blueberry Souffle with quince sorbet was the "icing on the cake!"
Wolf, adjacent to a restaurant named Beefsteak is located at 7661 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90446. They are open for dinner only, phone (323)424-7735 for hours and more information.
Friday, December 30, 2016
L'Ami Restaurant
Move over comfort food,L'Ami Restaurant in Santa Monica (on the border of Brentwood) has burst onto the scene in all its splendor.
Hidden behind an original wrought iron gate covered in ivy, it's reminiscent of the grand entrance leading into a magnificent estate on the French Riviera. L'Ami boasts a unique charm and characteristic atmosphere with two beautiful outdoor terraces surrounded by a variety of lush plants, and dotted with dimly lit rooms.
The open-air terrace, arched passageways, and blue painted ceilings reveal a casual ambience for dining. The bar and lounge, a favorite with the locals, is warm and inviting with a crackling fireplace and white shearling covered bar chairs. The ambience is much like stepping in to the welcoming elegant home of a friend , setting the stage for the main attractions, the cuisine, fine wine and cocktails.
L'Ami captures Mediterranean culture, rich history, delicious intricate cuisine and regional delicacies that blend together to offer an unparalleled culinary adventure, along with impeccable service. The menu combines owner Marc-Antoine Rambaud's childhood culinary experience with the influence of French-born Chef Francis Bay, and General Manager Tropez Aubour, all born in Southern France. Chef Bey's approach and passion for introducing French cuisine continues to inspire him to combine authentic fresh ingredients with organic and seasonal dishes. His French Mediterranean menu classics are enlivened with imagination, flavor, beauty and tradition.
Bringing a taste of the Mediterranean, Bey mixes simplicity with sopsistication along with some unexpected touches in his elaborate entrees with his fresh and clean flavors. Butternut squash ravioli with Russian kale, Scottish salmon with ginger soy lemon vinaigrette, Maine lobster with black truffle farro risotto, The Mezze appetizer, Foie Gras Au Torchon are some of his amazing creations.
Specialty cocktails, beer and fine wines from across the globe will certainly quench yur thirst.
L'Ami for great Westside/LA dining is located at 246 26th Street in Santa Monica, phone: (310) 310-8064 or www.lamirestaurant.com for dining hours.
Hidden behind an original wrought iron gate covered in ivy, it's reminiscent of the grand entrance leading into a magnificent estate on the French Riviera. L'Ami boasts a unique charm and characteristic atmosphere with two beautiful outdoor terraces surrounded by a variety of lush plants, and dotted with dimly lit rooms.
The open-air terrace, arched passageways, and blue painted ceilings reveal a casual ambience for dining. The bar and lounge, a favorite with the locals, is warm and inviting with a crackling fireplace and white shearling covered bar chairs. The ambience is much like stepping in to the welcoming elegant home of a friend , setting the stage for the main attractions, the cuisine, fine wine and cocktails.
L'Ami captures Mediterranean culture, rich history, delicious intricate cuisine and regional delicacies that blend together to offer an unparalleled culinary adventure, along with impeccable service. The menu combines owner Marc-Antoine Rambaud's childhood culinary experience with the influence of French-born Chef Francis Bay, and General Manager Tropez Aubour, all born in Southern France. Chef Bey's approach and passion for introducing French cuisine continues to inspire him to combine authentic fresh ingredients with organic and seasonal dishes. His French Mediterranean menu classics are enlivened with imagination, flavor, beauty and tradition.
Bringing a taste of the Mediterranean, Bey mixes simplicity with sopsistication along with some unexpected touches in his elaborate entrees with his fresh and clean flavors. Butternut squash ravioli with Russian kale, Scottish salmon with ginger soy lemon vinaigrette, Maine lobster with black truffle farro risotto, The Mezze appetizer, Foie Gras Au Torchon are some of his amazing creations.
Specialty cocktails, beer and fine wines from across the globe will certainly quench yur thirst.
L'Ami for great Westside/LA dining is located at 246 26th Street in Santa Monica, phone: (310) 310-8064 or www.lamirestaurant.com for dining hours.
Sunday, December 11, 2016
Lomita Railroad Museum
On a day created for why we live in California, it was an unexpected treat and surprise to discover not only the city of Lomita, but the charming Lomita Railroad Museum, dedicated to the proud era of the steam engine that's the hallmark of the Museum.
The Museum, the first of its kind west of Denver, Colorado, was founded in 1967 by Mrs. Irene Lewis who commissioned the Museum in memory of her husband Martin, and bequeathed it to the City of Lomita. The Lewis' had owned "Little Engines of Lomita," a business that manufactured miniature live steam locomotives, and so Irene Lewis was most familiar with the history and operation of railroads. After researching train depots and stations nationwide, she chose to copy the Victorian architecture for her replica of a 19th century depot, the Boston & Maine's Greenwood Station in Wakefield, Massachusetts.
Inside you will find such treasures as the Locomotive Whistles, Locomotive Classification Light Collection, Tie Date Nails, Keeler Cooler, Link and Pin Coupler, Hand Lantern Collection, and much more.
Outside there's a Southern Pacific Railroad steam locomotive and tender in operation from 1902 to 1960. Close by is a 1910 Union Pacific caboose and a modern all-steel Santa Fe caboose. Across the way is a 1823 Union Oil tank car, and 1913 Southern Pacific,outside braced box car; and a wooden railroad water tower.
You are welcome to board the steam engine, explore the caboose, and tour the Museum gallery with over 1500 rare and historic artifacts on display.
The Museum located at 2137 Wesr 250th Street, Lomita, CA 90717 is at the corner of Woodward and 250th Street. There is an entrace fee. They are open Thursday-Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and for more information and reservations phone: (310) 326-6255 or www.lomita-rr.org
The Museum, the first of its kind west of Denver, Colorado, was founded in 1967 by Mrs. Irene Lewis who commissioned the Museum in memory of her husband Martin, and bequeathed it to the City of Lomita. The Lewis' had owned "Little Engines of Lomita," a business that manufactured miniature live steam locomotives, and so Irene Lewis was most familiar with the history and operation of railroads. After researching train depots and stations nationwide, she chose to copy the Victorian architecture for her replica of a 19th century depot, the Boston & Maine's Greenwood Station in Wakefield, Massachusetts.
Inside you will find such treasures as the Locomotive Whistles, Locomotive Classification Light Collection, Tie Date Nails, Keeler Cooler, Link and Pin Coupler, Hand Lantern Collection, and much more.
Outside there's a Southern Pacific Railroad steam locomotive and tender in operation from 1902 to 1960. Close by is a 1910 Union Pacific caboose and a modern all-steel Santa Fe caboose. Across the way is a 1823 Union Oil tank car, and 1913 Southern Pacific,outside braced box car; and a wooden railroad water tower.
You are welcome to board the steam engine, explore the caboose, and tour the Museum gallery with over 1500 rare and historic artifacts on display.
The Museum located at 2137 Wesr 250th Street, Lomita, CA 90717 is at the corner of Woodward and 250th Street. There is an entrace fee. They are open Thursday-Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and for more information and reservations phone: (310) 326-6255 or www.lomita-rr.org
Thursday, November 10, 2016
Angelo's and Vinci's Ristorante
Ablaze in festive lights, brimming with panache, and surrounded with vintage photos and memorabilia, with just one step through the door you'll have no doubt that you have entered a wonderful eclectic Italian ristorante. Bigger than life, Angelo's and Vinci's Ristorante, is set in the hidden gem of the city of Fullerton, that wondrously has been able to retain the beat of the 1950's.The old building where the ristorante is now housed, has a treasured history of being an old marketplace in the early 1900's, where local farmers brought their produce in from the fields by horse and wagon.
Angelo's and Vinci's was originally opened in 1971 by husband and wife team, Cynthia and Steven Peck (who was a Hollywood dancer and choreographer). After Steven passed 11 years ago, the personable and charming Cynthia took over the ristorante. The perfect hands-on hostess, she walks around her huge establishment, making sure all her guests are satisfied and well taken care of.
Cynthia is proud to talk about the food here. "Love of tradition, inspiration and an infinite capacity for taking pains constitutes the secret of our food! We have an extensive menu, specializing in abundant delicious dishes using the freshest ingredients and imported Italian cheeses."
There are 50 delicious pasta and stuffed pasta dishes, award winning pizzas (from all regions of Italy) with a variety of traditional toppings, and a large assortment of salads. Appetizers include Calamari fritto, Mozzarella marinara fritto, and a wide variety of Entrees that highlight seafood, chicken and grilled items, all served with soup or salad.
Of course there is always room for dessert when there's such mouthwatering offers as spumoni, Tiramisu (flown in from Italy),cheesecake with strawberry sauce, chocolate cake and Zeppoli donuts.
. The full bar is ready to enhance your dining experience with a wide variety of wines,beers, liqueurs and cocktails.
. A variety of banquet rooms can be viewed on their website.
Located at 550 N. Harbor Boulevard, Fullerton, CA 92832 phone (714 ) 879-4022
www.angelosandvincis.com
Angelo's and Vinci's was originally opened in 1971 by husband and wife team, Cynthia and Steven Peck (who was a Hollywood dancer and choreographer). After Steven passed 11 years ago, the personable and charming Cynthia took over the ristorante. The perfect hands-on hostess, she walks around her huge establishment, making sure all her guests are satisfied and well taken care of.
Cynthia is proud to talk about the food here. "Love of tradition, inspiration and an infinite capacity for taking pains constitutes the secret of our food! We have an extensive menu, specializing in abundant delicious dishes using the freshest ingredients and imported Italian cheeses."
There are 50 delicious pasta and stuffed pasta dishes, award winning pizzas (from all regions of Italy) with a variety of traditional toppings, and a large assortment of salads. Appetizers include Calamari fritto, Mozzarella marinara fritto, and a wide variety of Entrees that highlight seafood, chicken and grilled items, all served with soup or salad.
Of course there is always room for dessert when there's such mouthwatering offers as spumoni, Tiramisu (flown in from Italy),cheesecake with strawberry sauce, chocolate cake and Zeppoli donuts.
. The full bar is ready to enhance your dining experience with a wide variety of wines,beers, liqueurs and cocktails.
. A variety of banquet rooms can be viewed on their website.
Located at 550 N. Harbor Boulevard, Fullerton, CA 92832 phone (714 ) 879-4022
www.angelosandvincis.com
Saturday, October 29, 2016
The Inn at Newport Ranch
The sheer majesty of untamed natural beauty unfolds just in time to allow guests to enter into the welcoming gates of The Inn at Newport Ranch. Perched on the craggy Mendocino coast, this breathtaking hideaway is set in seclusion on a 2000 acre private preserve that was once a former lumber town known as Newport. Here amidst the stunningly varied landscape is this land of "once upon a time!"
The meticulously designed main lodge is where you begin your adventure. Right behind the stain glass doors are plenty of cozy communal areas including a well stocked library set besides a massive fireplace, 2 dining rooms (one intimate, and one that can seat 50) ,and a den with skillfully hand crafted furniture, all beckoning you to sit down, relax and enjoy. Surrounding windows overlooking the ocean are the ultimate romantic spot to view a glorious sunrise or stunning sunset. Each evening from 6 to 7 p.m.guests enjoy appetizers,and area wines from Anderson Valley and Sonoma,perfect to toast your good fortune for choosing this fantastic Inn. Also to your delight, each morning, mouthwatering made to order breakfasts are served here. By request for your dining pleasure, gourmet dinners prepared by a private chef (all including veggies and herbs from the on-site garden) can be arranged at booking.
Evan, one of the personable managers, after a short introduction, handed us our key and walked us into the closest thing to a palace and the perfect place to bed down. Furnished in rustic high-end decor that was so amazing, I knew I might never want to leave, so I set out to enjoy every moment.The door to our suite named 'The Grove,' led us into an entryway where we hung our coats. Next came a den with a crackling fireplace, rugs set out on gorgeous wood floors, perfectly placed oversize leather chairs with comfy pillows while throws to snuggle in were everywhere. The adjoining living room was a perfect area with IPod docks, WiFi and TV. The kitchen had just the right appliances, pots and pans, and matching rustic glazed dishes, mugs and glasses. and cutlery. Alongside the kitchen area was a small table and chairs, just the place to grab a snack, a hot cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Right outside the beautiful glass doors leading to the back area, were two separate decks with chairs for sunning, along with a hot tub that was welcoming as well. The beds with gorgeous carved headboards in each of the two bedrooms were dressed in the finest high thread sheets and topped with warm plump fluffy quilts. The two bathrooms were dreamy enough to delight any woman, with walk in showers, thick plush towels and robes.
A highlight here is the 2 hour ATV tour for you to survey your kingdom. Thrill at the verdant hills and meadows, cattle pasture, forest, private and oceanside trails, sea stacks, sandy beaches and the historic cemetery. Horseback riding, hiking and other activities can also be arranged.
The Inn at Newport Ranch is owned by Will Jackson, and Creighton & Cindi Smith are the Inn Managers. Located at 31502 N. Highway 1, Fort Bragg, CA 95437, phone (707) 962-4818 or www.theinnatnewportranch.com and so very well worth the gorgeous drive to get there.
The meticulously designed main lodge is where you begin your adventure. Right behind the stain glass doors are plenty of cozy communal areas including a well stocked library set besides a massive fireplace, 2 dining rooms (one intimate, and one that can seat 50) ,and a den with skillfully hand crafted furniture, all beckoning you to sit down, relax and enjoy. Surrounding windows overlooking the ocean are the ultimate romantic spot to view a glorious sunrise or stunning sunset. Each evening from 6 to 7 p.m.guests enjoy appetizers,and area wines from Anderson Valley and Sonoma,perfect to toast your good fortune for choosing this fantastic Inn. Also to your delight, each morning, mouthwatering made to order breakfasts are served here. By request for your dining pleasure, gourmet dinners prepared by a private chef (all including veggies and herbs from the on-site garden) can be arranged at booking.
Evan, one of the personable managers, after a short introduction, handed us our key and walked us into the closest thing to a palace and the perfect place to bed down. Furnished in rustic high-end decor that was so amazing, I knew I might never want to leave, so I set out to enjoy every moment.The door to our suite named 'The Grove,' led us into an entryway where we hung our coats. Next came a den with a crackling fireplace, rugs set out on gorgeous wood floors, perfectly placed oversize leather chairs with comfy pillows while throws to snuggle in were everywhere. The adjoining living room was a perfect area with IPod docks, WiFi and TV. The kitchen had just the right appliances, pots and pans, and matching rustic glazed dishes, mugs and glasses. and cutlery. Alongside the kitchen area was a small table and chairs, just the place to grab a snack, a hot cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Right outside the beautiful glass doors leading to the back area, were two separate decks with chairs for sunning, along with a hot tub that was welcoming as well. The beds with gorgeous carved headboards in each of the two bedrooms were dressed in the finest high thread sheets and topped with warm plump fluffy quilts. The two bathrooms were dreamy enough to delight any woman, with walk in showers, thick plush towels and robes.
A highlight here is the 2 hour ATV tour for you to survey your kingdom. Thrill at the verdant hills and meadows, cattle pasture, forest, private and oceanside trails, sea stacks, sandy beaches and the historic cemetery. Horseback riding, hiking and other activities can also be arranged.
The Inn at Newport Ranch is owned by Will Jackson, and Creighton & Cindi Smith are the Inn Managers. Located at 31502 N. Highway 1, Fort Bragg, CA 95437, phone (707) 962-4818 or www.theinnatnewportranch.com and so very well worth the gorgeous drive to get there.
Sunday, October 9, 2016
Costero California Bar + Bistro
Making waves as the newest restaurant near LAX, Costero California Bar + Bistro offers a contemporary and engaging environment that serves modern California dining and local craft beer/
Serving up a variety of classics with a California twist, Costero is an all aroud venue, a hotspot for locals and visitors. "Costero is the perfect blend of upscale casual dining with a convenient yet inviting environment," said Bill Sinclair, Vice President of Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel, the hotel in which Costero is located. "This fresh from California approach not only provides guests with a new on-site dining option, but a place where they can get together with friends and family, or even make new connections.
Representing an exciting combination of tradition and innovation Executive Chef Orazio Parisi brings his Cordon Bleu skills and Sicilian sensibility to the creation of a menu that emphasizes fresh, seasonal flavors, and a California coastal take on time-honored American cuisine.
You will enjoy a wide range of delectable small plates, savory soups, Neopolitan pizzas, artisinal salads, fresh tacos, sandwiches, large entrees, vegetarian/vegan options, and decadent desserts. Simply put, no matter what you're craving, Costero will have a culinary creation for you.
Located inside the Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel, 6101 West Century Blvd, Los Angeles 90045, phone (310) 642-4820 www.sheratonlax.com
Serving up a variety of classics with a California twist, Costero is an all aroud venue, a hotspot for locals and visitors. "Costero is the perfect blend of upscale casual dining with a convenient yet inviting environment," said Bill Sinclair, Vice President of Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel, the hotel in which Costero is located. "This fresh from California approach not only provides guests with a new on-site dining option, but a place where they can get together with friends and family, or even make new connections.
Representing an exciting combination of tradition and innovation Executive Chef Orazio Parisi brings his Cordon Bleu skills and Sicilian sensibility to the creation of a menu that emphasizes fresh, seasonal flavors, and a California coastal take on time-honored American cuisine.
You will enjoy a wide range of delectable small plates, savory soups, Neopolitan pizzas, artisinal salads, fresh tacos, sandwiches, large entrees, vegetarian/vegan options, and decadent desserts. Simply put, no matter what you're craving, Costero will have a culinary creation for you.
Located inside the Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel, 6101 West Century Blvd, Los Angeles 90045, phone (310) 642-4820 www.sheratonlax.com
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