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Restaurant Review: Uovo - Santa Monica, CA
Uovo Santa Monica was a great date night restaurant! We went for some fresh Italian pasta, flown in straight from Bologna, Italy! You’d be surprised what our favorite dish was - see our review! First come, first served, no reservations.
Restaurant: Uovo
Address: 1320 2nd Street Ste. A, Santa Monica CA 90401
Menu: https://uovo.la/menu/
Price: $$
Reservations: They DO NOT take reservations. Guests will be seated on a first come, first-served basis.
Delivery: Order on Postmates if you don’t have time!
Uovo is a unique classic Italian pasta bar from the co-owners of Sugarfish. I was expecting to order at a counter and take a number but they had a better system, let me explain below! We ordered 3 pasta dishes that we loved and left satisfied.
Uovo, a new food centric restaurant serving traditional pasta dishes made with fresh pasta from our kitchen in Bologna, Italy
Uovo Santa Monica Entrance on 2nd Street
Arrival and Atmosphere
Located on 2nd street, we parked in one of the Santa Monica parking structures that had free parking for up to 90 minutes. We put our name in and they said it would be about 10-15 mins. We waited out front for about 10 mins and they called in to sit at the counter.
Inside as we were walking to our seats, we noticed there weren’t many too tables and a lot of barstools. There were probably 10 tables and a bar that surrounded the kitchen. Let’s just say I won’t be planning my next birthday here. We sat at the counter with a view of the kitchen and the bar even had hooks underneath - big points in my book. Our waitress came right away to explain some great items on the menu, they even had a few specials! We told her we were hungry and she recommended we order 3 dishes. After a quick discussion, we came to a decision, put our order in, and watched them make our dish in front of our eyes!
Cell reception was really bad in there, but that was ok, Josh and I were enjoying each others company.
Amazing PASTA!
The menu was pasta and sides. No appetizers, no bread, no dessert. We ordered 3 dishes between the 2 of us! The pasta is specially flown in from Italy everyday! The chef would come up to the counter as our pasta was ready and pour it from the pan into our bowl! We had to try the special truffle dish that night, Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe (Pecorino and black pepper – a salt forward dish), and the Tagliatelle al Ragú (bolognese). We liked all 3 but our favorite ended up being the bolognese dish, much like a meat sauce spaghetti! The noodles were soft, well cooked, and fresh. The Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe was cooked well, with cheese and pepper on top.
Tagliatelle al Ragú (bolognese)
Tagliatelle al Ragú (bolognese) Mixed!
Special Truffle Pasta Dish
Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe (Pecorino and black pepper – a salt forward dish)
To drink, we had the house Chianti Superiore which was a nice blend, went well with the pasta dishes.
We were in and out in about 30 mins (if that). I'd definitely go back!
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Ice Cream Review: Game of Cones at Wanderlust Creamery
Wanderlust Creamery is one of my favorite ice cream shops as they have successfully combined two of my favorite things, travel and ice cream! With the finale of Game of Thrones fast approaching, you must try the seasonal Game of Cones flavors, featuring inspired concoctions from Westeros and beyond!
Wanderlust Creamery - Game of Cones Seasonal Flavors
Locations in Los Angeles, CA: Tarzana, Atwater Village, Venice
Website: Wanderlust Creamery
Wanderlust Creamery is one of my favorite ice cream shops as they have successfully combined two of my favorite things, travel and ice cream! Their unique flavors represent ingredients found around the world, giving you a taste from different countries.
I don’t know if you’ve heard, but this show called Game of Thrones is wrapping up their final season in May. Wanderlust has done it again and has come out with some seasonal Game of Cones flavors, featuring inspired flavors from Westeros and beyond!
Game of Cones Flavors
Winter is Here - Oatmeal ice cream swirled with a housemade honey caramel spiked with 10 year Islay scotch.
WINTER IS HERE
Oatmeal ice cream swirled with a housemade honey caramel spiked with 10 year Islay scotch.
CRÉME OF THE POPPY
We took French coquelicot liqueur, made from wild red poppy flowers, along with grassfed dairy + a sprinkling of poppy seeds to create this "Milk of the Poppy"- inspired flavor.
GROWING STRONG
Our ode to Highgarden: lemon verbena ice cream, speckled with crystalized roses, marigolds, + candied bergamot orange.
DRAGON GLACE
A glassy sorbet of darkest chocolate + Russian imperial stout beer. Vegan & dairy free.
CANDIED PLUMS
DOTHROCKY ROAD - Alderwood smoked sea salt dark chocolate ice cream, with trails of housemade vanilla bean marshmallow creme + smoked almonds.
...from Dorne. Custard ice cream, swirled with housemade spiced plum jam.
A FLAVOR OF ICE & FIRE
An ICY, knee-bending concoction of ‘Fire & Blood’. Sorbet of DRAGONfruit, BLOOD orange, & FIREy ancho chili. Dairy free.
CHILDREN OF THE FOREST FRUITS
Mascarpone ice cream swirled with a housemade jam of blackberry wine, red currants, & wild forest berries.
DOTHROCKY ROAD
Alderwood smoked sea salt dark chocolate ice cream, with trails of housemade vanilla bean marshmallow creme + smoked almonds.
We tried all of them but our favorites were Dothrocky Road and Winter is Here.
The Dothrocky Road has an amazing light and fluffy vanilla bean marshmallow creme ribbon through it. With the sea salt dark chocolate ice cream, that salty sweet combo leaves you wanting more!
Winter is Here had a great caramel mix in with a hint of smooth scotch in the aftertaste!
Hurry in, these flavors are only available through April 1st - May 31st.
*AVAILABLE AT ATWATER VILLAGE, VENICE & TARZANA LOCATIONS. SELECT FLAVORS AVAILABLE EVERY SUNDAY AT SMORGASBURG LA*
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Sweet Review: Milk Bar - Los Angeles
Momofuku’s Milk Bar is open in Los Angeles and people are flocking from all over for these tasty treats! Cookies, cakes, and soft serve will leave you happy and full! Ice cream in LA | Dessert Menu in Los Angeles | Where to go in LA #icecream #losangeles
MILK BAR LOS ANGELES
Location: 7150 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Website: https://milkbarstore.com/
Soft Serve Ice Cream
Milk Bar LA opened on Melrose last September and Angelinos couldn’t be happier! With wait times from 30 minutes to 2.5 hours, Milk Bar treats have proven they are worth the wait! Fortunately, the wait times aren’t as detrimental these days!
With the first Milk Bar location opening in 2008 under the Momofuku Restaurant chain, LA marks #14 with 9 stores in New York, and other locations including Washington, DC, San Diego, Las Vegas, and Toronto.
This award winning bakery was started by Chef Christina Tosi. You may know her as the dessert wizard from the PBS show and can also be found on Netflix, where she creates dreamy desserts along side Chef David Chang. You can even find her as a judge on Masterchef with Gordon Ramsey! She’s all over the place!
MILK BAR MENU
The menu is full of many delicious sweet options, I was kinda glad there was a 35 minute wait to figure out what I wanted.
Milk Bar is built on a world of possibility: we make our cult-favorite treats with unexpected combinations & impossible flavors. We’re on a mission to make the ordinary extraordinary – grab a cookie and come along with us!
Menu
Menu
After hearing their motto, the menu seemed to make more sense. I decided to go with some cookies and ice cream… Soft Serve Ice Cream with Birthday Dough Bites and SPRINKLES! ALWAYS GET SPRINKLES ON TOP! ;-D
Soft Serve Ice Cream
There were only 2 soft serve options: Cereal Milk or Pineapple Fo Sho’ Whip… I dare you to try the twist of those. Supposedly it’s tasty. Right around Valentine’s Day there was a Red Velvet soft serve!
Toppings
All of the cakes looked so good! You can buy a whole cake or just a slice!
We were all completely satisfied with our selections!
MILK BAR CLASSROOM
The classroom is available for individuals to sign up or a great place for a group event!
For about $95, you can make the best cake you’ll ever make in your life!
In our cake classes we’ll show you all the steps for assembling our most popular layer cake flavor combinations (an irresistible balance of cake, spread, frosting, crumbs, and crunch!), and how we transform our cake scraps and turn them into bite sized cake truffles! Or join us in making our signature item, crack pie®, from start to finish with a bonus lesson on turning cake scraps into truffles while your pie is in the oven!
At the end of class all participants take home everything they make, plus recipes and other bonus info! All ages and all levels of expertise welcome.
Classes are offered in our Logan Circle, DC Flagship and Los Angeles flagship locations as well as our Brooklyn HQ
Sign up here: https://milkbarstore.com/events/classes/
SO. MUCH. PINK!!
Don’t have time for a class? Try making treats at home:
And make them in style:
Don’t live in New York or Los Angeles? Goldbely can help and deliver these tasty treats to your door! Check it out here: Milk Bar on Goldbely
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Restaurant Review: Alameda Supper Club - Downtown Los Angeles, CA
After opening their doors in March 2019, the Alameda Supper Club should be added to your Los Angeles restaurant bucket list! Located in ROW DTLA as part of the Manufactory, Chris Bianco’s new dinner restaurant is spectacular! See our full review with menus and pictures!
Alameda Supper Club
Address: 757 ALAMEDA ST,LOS ANGELES, CA 90021
Website and Reservations: https://www.alamedasupperclub.com/
After opening their doors less than 2 weeks ago, the Alameda Supper Club should be added to your restaurant bucket list! Located in ROW DTLA as part of the Manufactory group along with Tartine, Chris Bianco’s new dinner restaurant is spectacular! Although pizza is not served here, there are plenty of appetizing dishes with an Italian flair!
Our food menu is inspired by Chef Chris Bianco's Italian origins with influences from Chef Lee Foden-Clarke's English background, combined with inspiration from the California Farmer's Market. It is is designed to be shared, emphasizing the true meaning of the word “supper”.
Location
Part of ROW DTLA near the Arts District, this trendy area has tons of warehouses, and is home to merchandisers such as Splended / Ella Moss, NationBuilder, Nasty Gal, Colony Capital, Steelcase, rhubarb studios, and Gensler. On Sundays (especially during summer), Smorgasburg LA is the place to be, filled with LA’s best food joints!
Dining Room
The dining room design is very modern, bright and I loved the wood tables in this warehouse space.
Dining Room
The Bar
We had the best table in the place, right next to the kitchen!
Our Table at the Alameda Supper Club
MENU
Alameda Supper Club - Drink Menu
Alameda Supper Club - Food Menu
Drinks at the Alameda Supper Club
SO many great cocktail options with the best names! I loved my Celine Dijon, light and refreshing complete with a huge rectangular shaped ice cube and a metal straw!
Celine Dijon - Pineapple Mostarda, tequila reposado, lilet blanc, seltzer
Apricot Sour - Apricot 4 way, hazelnut, egg white, Japanese gin
Romance Language - mole spices, mezcal, citrus, basil, finochietto, averna
Barley Legal - Fermented Barley, single malt whiskies
Appetizers at Alameda Supper Club
We tried almost all of them! Our favorite was the ham and cheese toast! Almost paste like in a crispy toast, we ordered another round!
Cheddar and Smoked Ham Toast
Grilled Country Bread and Cultured Butter
Bread and butter… always a good choice.
Pork Crackling - Smoked Paprika
The pork crackling was so different, the texture was almost like a chip. Still worth a try.
Entrees at Alameda Supper Club
Let’s start with the pasta. IT WAS ALL AMAZING! The strozzapreti and ravioli were the highlights. The strozzapreti melted in your mouth with a buttery finish and pepper after taste. We discussed how the peas in the ravioli are not your mom’s peas in a can, and so delightful.
Strozzapreti - Sheep’s milk, lemon, black pepper
Ravioli - English Peas and ricotta
The ribeye was also a great choice, the garlic butter gave off so much flavor and not too rich.
Bone-in Rib eye - garlic butter
We weren’t going to order the Fermented Pearl Barley, because it sounded so strange but our waitress, Andrea, recommended it! It was good, but we did prefer the pastas!
Fermented Pearl Barley - turnip
Desserts at Alameda Supper Club
OMG, GET THE ICE CREAM. If you know me, you know I would say that anyway, but I mean it here! So many weird things together, but it was SO good. Hazelnut, Balsamic, olive oil, orange-anise crumble, maldon.
Ice Cream - Hazelnut, Balsamic, olive oil, orange-anise crumble, maldon
Alameda Supper Club Dessert Menu
Buckwheat Cannoli - pistachios
We also enjoyed the buckwheat cannolis with pistachios. Very fitting in the Italian setting. We also ordered the Insalata di Agrumi but weren’t blown away by it, we found it very sour and tart.
Insalata di Agrumi - fresh citrus, lemon cream, tangerine granita, mint
Hope you get down to DTLA and try the latest and greatest restaurant Los Angeles has to offer!
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St Patrick's Day Ice Cream & Events in Los Angeles
Happy St Patty’s Day! See how to celebrate with the events in Los Angeles on St Patrick’s this Sunday! Things to do on St Patrick’s Day in LA | Bars for St Patrick’s Day
HAPPY ST PATTY'S DAY! Let's celebrate with a wee bit o'ice cream!
O’Venice Sign in Venice Beach
Here are some other great events in Los Angeles to celebrate St Patricks Day in Los Angeles:
Hermosa Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade
St. Patrick’s Day 5K in Redondo Beach
Casey’s St. Patrick’s Day Street Festival Downtown LA
Rock and Reilly’s Annual St. Paddy’s Day Block Party West Hollywood
St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at the Original Farmers Market
Flogging Molly at the Hollywood Palladium, Hollywood
Time Out LA’s The best Irish pubs in Los Angeles to raise a pint
Popsicle: St Patrick's Day - Summer is here! Rick's Pool Bar @ Hotel Figueroa
Downtown LA St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl and Beer Garden!
St Patrick’s Day Ice Cream
Salt and Straw features many different unique flavors that you won't find in most ice cream shops.
Monthly, they rotate seasonal flavors relating to the season or a holiday! For instance, see the weirdest flavors we tried last November:
November Menu
The buttered mashed potatoes and gravy was interesting to say the least. For March, they have some of the best flavors I have ever tried!
The real winner here was the classic: Pots of Gold and Rainbows, which has come back every March since 2013.
Pots of Gold and Rainbows
Mixed with chunks of lucky charms, ice cream makers spend over 600 hours this month separating out the Lucky Charms marshmallows from the cereal to create this fabulous edition. They then seep the cereal in cream for the ice cream base and the marshmallows transform into perfect frozen gooey nuggets that are blended into the cereal goodness.
Stop everything that you're doing and get to the nearest Salt and Straw! Locations and local flavors can be found: HERE
The Venice Beach Sign - St Patrick’s Day
The Venice Chamber has been in the holiday spirit, adding elements to the iconic VENICE sign at Pacific St and Windward Ave! The Venice Sign Committee is responsible for the maintenance of the sign and started the Adopt-a-Bulb program.
Venice Beach Sign - O’Venice
At Christmas, there were red and green bulbs, for Valentine's Day they added a heart with purple lights. See more holidays on their website, Venice Sign Committee. For St Patrick's Day they add the "O" and green lights! So cute!
Hope you enjoy your St Patrick's day! :)
Malibu Wines and Beer Garden in West Hills - Los Angeles, CA
Malibu Wines is one of my favorite wineries in Los Angeles! They recently opened a location in the San Fernando Valley and it is perfect for wine tasting! Things to do in Los Angeles.
Malibu Wines and Beer Garden
Address: 23130 Sherman Way, West Hills, CA 91307
Hours: Open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. most nights, with an extension to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday
Website: https://www.malibuwines.com/malibu-wines-beer-garden/
I was ecstatic when I heard Malibu Wines was opening a tasting room in West Hills of the San Fernando Valley! I've been to their tasting room in Malibu and on the Wine Safari so I knew I would automatically like their new wine and beer garden.
Check out our related post: Malibu Wine Safari
The venue is a historic 1930's mission-styled mansion initially owned by 1930s-era actor Francis Lederer, and was declared a historic cultural monument in 1978. For years it has been utilized as an event space but is now licensed to serve beer and wine to the public. No reservations required!
Walking in, I was excited to see their signature WINE sign just like the one in Malibu.
The garden is full of tables and chairs with areas also to put down a blanket on the grass. Near the tasting area there are barrels with tops so that you can enjoy flights or a glass of vino. I found it so enchanting with all the lights hanging from the willow trees.
A band was setup on stage, playing live music all afternoon.
We had trouble finding a table so we posted up around one of the planters.
WINE AND BEER SELECTION
The Semler family own the garden and serve their signature Saddlerock Ranch brand as well as the Selmer branded wine from their vineyard set in the Santa Monica Mountains. Wine and beer are served as flights, by the bottle or by the glass.
Ales from local breweries such as 14 Cannons, Modern Times, Cellador Ales, and Five Threads Brewing are served on tap.
FOOD
Two Doughs food truck is located just off the entrance providing pizza and charcuterie plates for guests. They even have salads! Note they only serve Friday nights as well as all day Saturday & Sunday.
Cheers! Will definitely be back soon!
Here are our some of our favorite things:
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10 Best Brunch Los Angeles Restaurants - with map!
Where to find the best brunch spots and restaurants in Los Angeles! Looking for bottomless mimosas, views or something outside? You can find the perfect spot in my most recent brunch post. You can even have ice cream for breakfast! 10 Best Brunch Los Angeles Restaurants
Santa Monica Pier
10 Best Brunch Spots around Los Angeles - Map included!
Brunch is my favorite meal! I love meeting with my friends all over LA for some breakfast food and a couple of drinks. Let me guide you to great food, bottomless mimosas, outdoor seating, and who takes reservations! It will be the perfect weekend brunch!
Here is a map made with the Wanderlog Travel Planner, so you can follow along, add to your Google maps account, or create your own personal map! Wanderlog allows you to create great maps and guides for any vacation!
WESTSIDE BRUNCH
26 Beach
Address: 3100 Washington Blvd, Venice, CA 90292
($$) With beach umbrellas out front and a mix match of coffee mugs this is such a unique and fun restaurant! I love it because you can have ice cream for breakfast and Mom won't get mad!
Must Haves:
Polar Bear French Toast - Croissant french toast topped with ice cream and berries! Sometimes its not on their menu but you can still order it!
The Peach Melba - 2 "croissant" French toasts, caramelized peaches, vanilla ice cream, melba sauce. Melba is pureed raspberries thickened with powdered sugar.
Reese's Piece's - Stuffed with peanut butter, chopped Reese's, served with Callebaut chocolate sauce on the side
Speaking of ice cream, see our other local ice cream suggestions in our Best Ice Cream in Los Angeles post
The Details:
Outdoor Seating?: Yes and a covered patio - can get hot on warm summer days!
Parking?: Street Parking - I usually park in the residential neighborhood across the street
Takes Reservations?: Yes, Opentable
Bottomless Mimosas?: YES!
Menu: 26 Beach brunch Menu
SALT at the Marina Del Rey Hotel
Address: 13534 Bali Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
($$$) Located in the Marina on the water, this place has stunning views of boats floating by and great brunch dishes!
Must Haves:
Croque-Madame - Fra’mani ham and gruyere cheese on brioche, sunny side up farm egg, sauce morna (MOUTH IS WATERING) Morna sauce is like an aioli
Buttermilk Pancakes with Berries and Cream - reminds me of the Starburst commercial every time
The Details:
Outdoor Seating?: Yes, usually pretty sunny - bring sunscreen! Firepits are available too for those cold mornings!
Parking?: Valet parking only ($4 for 4 Hours)
Takes Reservations?: Yes, Opentable
Bottomless Mimosas?: Nope, by the glass
Menu: Click Here
Address: 417 Washington Blvd, Venice, CA 90292
($$-$$$) Jeremy Fall has concocted a special menu incorporating breakfast items into almost anything, even cocktails! The restaurant was inspired by serving breakfast to musicians after finishing their sets during the wee hours of the morning on the Sunset Strip in the 80's and 90's.
Must Haves:
Spiked Cereal Milk - I loved the Cocoa Puffs and Vanilla Vodka. Just like it sounds - cereal milk with the cereal strained out and add alcohol! Why didn't I think of that?
Benedict Fries - the only funky thing was the gruyere cheese - it smelled bad and I picked it off.
Chicken and Biscuits - the gravy is perfection, phenomenal dish
Nighthawk Breakfast Sandwich - maple bacon sausage, scrambled eggs, gruyere cheese, arugula, peppercorn mayo, champagne vinegrette, pretzel bun
Stack O'Bacon - Sweet Tapatio candied bacon! Kinda pricey for bacon.
The Details:
Outdoor Seating?: Not exactly, but there are seats by the windows that are wide open
Parking?: Valet or Street - valet would be easier
Takes Reservations?: Yes, Opentable
Bottomless Mimosas?: I don't think so. but get the Spiked Cereal Milk
Menu: Nighthawk: Breakfast Bar
Whiskey Reds
Address: 13813 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
($$) Family owned and located in Fisherman's Village in Marina Del Rey, just before the boats hit the channel! There are plenty of covered tables outdoors to enjoy the sea lions swimming and boats sailing by. On Sundays, they offer a brunch buffet.
Must Haves:
Breakfast burrito with a side of tots!
Eggs Benedict - a classic and always great
The Details:
Outdoor Seating?: Tons of outdoor seating with plenty of umbrellas and fire pits if its cold
Parking?: Valet Parking or lot next door (free with validation)
Takes Reservations?: Yes, Opentable
Bottomless Mimosas?: YES
Menu: Whiskey Reds Brunch
Killer Cafe
Address: 4213 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
($) Our favorite place to stop for a quick breakfast burrito and hash browns or to nurse a hangover. As a sister to Killer Shrimp and just next door, this has a nice cafe atmosphere complete with a long counter where coffee constantly flows to your cup!
Must Haves:
Breakfast Burrito with avocado and Hash Browns! The hash browns are sooo goood - thick slices of potatoes and a huge brick serving!
Scrambles - huge portions!
I'm not a shrimp fan, but there are a lot of Shrimp items on the menu!
Coffee is great, you can get a free cup if you check-in on Yelp!
The Details:
Outdoor Seating?: There are a few tables on the patio but they are usually in full sun in the morning
Parking?: Parking lot in front
Takes Reservations?: Nope, but you can order from Grubhub if you really can't wait!
Bottomless Mimosas?: Nope, but you can get them by the glass
Menu: Killer Cafe Brunch
Address: 1111 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90403
Must Haves:
b a c o n w a f f l e s t a c k - Bacon Waffle Batter, Topped with Two Eggs Any Style, Maple Syrup
e g g s b e n e d i c t - Two Poached Eggs, Canadian Bacon, Classic Hollandaise
The Details:
Outdoor Seating?: Nope, but beautiful Penthouse views!
Parking?: Valet Parking in the hotel or Street Parking
Takes Reservations?: Yes, Opentable
Bottomless Mimosas?: Sometimes? They didn’t offer it last time I went.
Menu: Penthouse Brunch
Address: 220 Rose Ave, Venice, CA 90291
($$) Properly named, located off Rose Ave and Main St, Rose Cafe had a major facelift a few years ago. Chef Jason Neroni (formerly of Superba) has brought back life to this cafe presenting local Southern California cuisine with an international influence from his world travels. Inside you'll find a gorgeous bar designed with a local touch from Studio UNLTD and a bakery with an impressive selection of baked goods on the front counters.
Must Haves:
Pasteries! Served in threes this is a perfect start to your meal
Classic Quiche - Leek, toma, honey nut squash, garden salad with poppyseed vinaigrette
Avocado Toast - So LA, but with a twist - Fried duck egg, pickled fresno chillies, pistachios
The Details:
Outdoor Seating?: Yes, lots, both covered in the beer garden or open air out on the front patio
Parking?: Valet Parking in the back or Street Parking
Takes Reservations?: Yes, Opentable
Bottomless Mimosas?: Nope, but you can get them by the glass or a carafe of Rosé
Menu: Rose Cafe Brunch
HOLLYWOOD Brunch Spots
Norah
Address: 8279 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046
($$$) Fancy brunch for fancy friends! Note: If you go for a birthday, they don't have dessert at brunchtime!
Must Haves:
Cast Iron Corn Bread - YUM
Breakfast Sandwich - so basic, but the combo of egg, sausage and american cheese is pure genius!
Duck Confit Hash - was very popular among the table! Yukon gold potatoes, poached eggs and chili sauce
The Details:
Outdoor Seating?: Yes, if you count a large open window creating a patio atmosphere
Parking?: Street Parking
Takes Reservations?: Yes, Opentable
Bottomless Mimosas?: Nope, but try the seasonal spritzer!
Menu: Norah Brunch
Hamburger Mary's
Address: 8288 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046
($$) Enter if you're looking to have a good time! On weekends the drag queens come out and put on a great show at this famous hamburger stand!
Must Haves:
Chocolate Chip Pancakes!
Mac 'N Cheese Hamburger
Cookies and Cream Milkshake - spectacular!
The Details:
Outdoor Seating?: Yes, there is a patio off of the street
Parking?: Street Parking or a garage across the street
Takes Reservations?: Only for large parties
Bottomless Mimosas?: Yep, the Bloody Mary's are also amazing
Menu: Hamburger Mary's Menu
($$) This spot is located at the end of the Malibu pier and has great farm to table options!
Must Haves:
Breakfast burrito - scrambled eggs, chicken sausage, black beans, cheese, peppers, onions, guacamole
Fried egg sandwich - bacon, arugula, baby potatoes, havarti, country wheat toast, lemon aioli
The Details:
Outdoor Seating?: Yes, lots of patio seating!
Parking?: Lot just before the pier
Takes Reservations?: No, you order at the registers and take a number
Bottomless Mimosas?: Nope, they only have beer and wine, the Malibu Farm Restaurant at the beginning of the pier does have a full bar.
Menu: Malibu Farm Menu
Don’t forget the brunch essentials:
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Thanks for reading!
Love and ice cream,
Kathleen
More to do in the City of Angels
Best Star Wars Themed Bar in Hollywood: Scum & Villainy Cantina
The Star Wars bar, Scum and Villainy Cantina has become a permanent fixture in Hollywood! See what to expect from this classic movie in Los Angeles! They take pride in being called a “Geek Bar!”
Scum & Villainy Cantina
Location: 6377 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, California, CA 90028
In Los Angeles there are many pop-up events to go to that are only around for a limited amount of time, such as restaurants like the Saved by the Bell - Saved by the Max, the Museum of Ice Cream and now there a Star Wars themed bar, Scum & Villainy. Now it is staying as a permanent fixture in Hollywood! We all remember the cantina scene in A New Hope, where Han shot first, right?
If not here it is:
I love the Star Wars movies, but I'm not an expert like my friends are. Although, I did rock a 40th Anniversary shirt from the GAP! Disneyland has also opened Star Wars land called Galaxy’s Edge complete with Oga’s Cantina, see more here: 10 Things to do at Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge
Everyone dresses up for the Star wars Bar, Scum and Villainy
We made reservations by buying tickets online a month in advance. Since they are now permanent in Hollywood, tickets are no longer required and its FREE to visit! Operating hours are from 6p-2am and they often have special events such as karaoke, LA Game Night, see more on their Facebook page for more info: https://www.facebook.com/scumandvillainycantina/
We had a designated check-in time at 8:30p. We arrived around 8:15p and lined up in an alley among ewoks, princesses and other charming characters. There wasn't a marking or anything on the building, just someone standing by the door checking people in. Oh and Han on the wall across from it.
Han SOlo Street Art in Hollywood
We entered the bar and were amazed how it looked!
Everyone was let in at once and we had a little over 2 hours to enjoy our time at the bar. The drink tokens were exchanged for one of their three pre-made mixed drinks (which weren't bad and pretty strong) or a beer. I don’t think this is the case anymore, it was more for their ticketed event.
Drink TOkens
I REALLY WANTED THE GLOW STICKS TO BE STRAWS!
We managed to get a booth in the corner (just like Han Solo).
I WAS REALLY EXCITED I HAD A LIGHT SABER.
There were a lot of lights and fog machines, but what really make this bar great? The patrons. Those who came in costume gave this bar its charm, feeling like you stepped into a galaxy far far away...
2 STORM TROOPERS WALK INTO A BAR...
And here's a little video to see the inside...
For bar snacks, they were served quickly and not bad for bar food. Portions were a decent size and sharable. We got a couple of orders of the AT Tots and the Carbonite Queso.
AT Tots at the Scum and Villainy Bar
Here are the menus known as “Liquids and Solids” instead of Drinks and Food. Clever.
On our way out we got some merchandise, a pint glass and a challenge coin.
I really had a great time being a Star Wars nerd for a night! May the force be with you!
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Saved By the Max - Saved by the Bell Pop-up
We LOVED the Saved by the Max restaurant pop-up in Hollywood and were blown away how it looked just like the 90’s Saved by the Bell set! The food wasn’t bad but the nostalgia for this show blew through the roof! Things to do in LA
SAVED BY THE MAX
Address: 7100 Santa Monica Blvd #185, West Hollywood, CA 90046
Website: http://www.savedbythemax.com/
Tickets: $40 per person (Come with an Appetizer and Entree!)
Limited Time Left: Hurry and get there soon preppy, the pop-up is only available until April 2019 before it moves to Vegas!
I'm sooo sooo sooo excited to tell you all about our trip to Saved by the Max! I loved and still love Saved by the Bell the series and when I saw the pop-up in Chicago, I wished it would come to LA... and it did!
OUR BOOTH!
Now, we love us some pop-ups like the Star Wars Scum and Villainy bar in Hollywood which is now a staple (see out Blog post here: Star Wars Pop-up Bar) to Hollywood Boulevard!
DINING ROOM
Saved by the Max is like stepping onto the Saved by the Bell set of the Max, it looks JUST like it! What really takes these pop-ups to another level are the customers. When everyone dresses like they are from that era or show or movie, it really gives the full effect that you have stepped into another realm. I was just waiting for Zack Morris, Kelly Kapowski, Screech, Slater, Jessie and Lisa to walk through the door!
Saved by the Max - Bar
Reservations are available until April 2019 and I heard they were moving to Las Vegas next! Tickets are $40 and include a reservation date & time with an appetizer and entree. I'll get into the food below.
Make your reservation here: SavedByTheMax.com
Get ready preppy for some fun pictures!
THE VENUE - THE MAX
You can't really just walk into this place, you have to get past the hostess first! We checked in and only waited for a few minutes since we arrived on the early side.
Immediately after stepping inside you walk along the lockers of all your beloved characters, with everything associated with that personality!
I was already in awe just by the lockers and then we stepped in the restaurant and I lost it!
I love all the 90's squiggles and designs that match the shows main title. I especially LOVED the bright colors, I fit right in!
They say you have 2 hours to stay to enjoy your meal and walk around. We were to anxious to wait until after our meal that we walked around and took a bunch of pictures before our meal! Overall I think we spent about an hour and a half there.
Mr. Beldings Office
Mr. Beldings office is designed to host larger parties or just regular tables if they don't have a big party. Soooo we went in and sat his desk of course!
No detention given today!
THE MENU & FOOD REVIEWS
The menu had more than I thought it would! It was typical diner/cafe kind of food and it wasn't terrible!
Drinks didn't come with the ticket and were paid for separately. I of course had a Mark Paul 75 because I just can't resist champagne. It was good, but boy was it sweet.
We tried to diversify our food choices to try everything between the four of us, but we doubled up on certain things. I loved the clever food names!
Appetizers
AC Sliders - Pork sliders with a mustard sauce. We weren't fans of the mustard
Mac and Screech - pretty good for noodles and cheese!
Snow White and the Seven Dorks - Wings that were devoured by the husbands... they seemed to be fans!
Entrees
Bayside Burger - Diner style with a double patty! YUM!
Preppy Pastrami - on rye bread
Beat Valley Buttermilk Pancakes - they serve brunch on weekends but why not have breakfast for dinner?
We had so much fun! Trish and I want to go back any day, any time!
GOOOOOO BAYSIDE!
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Christmas in Los Angeles - Lights in the Venice Canals 2022 Update
Discover some of the best Christmas light displays in Los Angeles! Don’t miss the boat parade in the Venice Canals and see their annual competition of beautiful houses decorated with gorgeous presentations. Check out the houses, bridges, and boats involved! #losangeles #venice #christmaslights #california
California Christmas - Celebrate the holidays at the beach!
Venice Canals Holiday Boat Parade (December 3, 2022)
Another great way to enjoy Venice Canals Christmas lights is to attend its long-running and popular boat parade. It usually runs on the first Saturday of December. The Annual Venice Canals Holiday Boat Parade has been held since 1983. It starts at 3:30 pm at the intersection of Eastern and Carroll Canals. Watch the brightly decorated boats from one of the bridges or bring your own festive vessel and join the parade!
KICK OFF THE HOLIDAYS AT THE 11TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY LIGHTING OF THE VENICE SIGN ON DEC. 3RD This year’s sign lighting is presented by Fat Sal’s!
Saturday, Dec 3, 2022
6:15 – 10:00 p.m.
For all Dec. 3rd event details: VeniceChamber.net
Related: Marina del Rey, CA - Marina Lights Boat Parade December 10, 2022
On the second Saturday of December, join the Marina del Rey community for their most festive celebration of the year. The fun begins at noon with the family-friendly Burton Chace Park. At 5:55, fireworks precede the parade, which begins at 6 PM and runs until 8 PM. More info here.
We discovered a new area filled with Christmas cheer, the Venice Canals! I start my hour long commute most mornings through the Venice Canals and love watching the ducks and boats float in the water as I drive by. I noticed last year that a few houses looked decorated during the day, but never really saw them in all their glory lit up at night. After dinner one night, we decided to walk through the canals to check out the Christmas spirit and we were pleasantly surprised to find there is a light competition among the houses for the best in show!
Venice Canals CHristmas Lights
History of the Venice Canals (per Wikipedia)
The Venice Canal Historic District is a district in the Venice section of Los Angeles, California. The district is noteworthy for its man-made canals built in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney as part of his Venice of America plan. Kinney sought to recreate the appearance and feel of Venice, Italy, in Southern California.
The canals are roughly bounded by Eastern Court on the east, Court A on the south, Strongs Drive on the west, and Court E on the north. There are four east-west canals (Carroll Canal, Linnie Canal, Howland Canal, and Sherman Canal) and two north-south canals (Eastern Canal and Grand Canal). The lit canals with gondoliers and arched bridges drew widespread publicity and helped sell lots in the development.
Celebrities such as Lenny Kravitz have lived in the Venice Canals.
Location & Parking for the Venice Canals
There is a parking lot located at the end of Venice Blvd (just before Pacific Ave). If you walk southwest you can enter on the walking paths on the sides of the canals off of Canal Street.
Venice Canals Association - Best Dressed Homes Contest
Apparently there is an annual contest among the homes in the neighborhood for “Best Dressed.” All the homes are very different in design, color and shape, and so are their holiday decorations. This house was the first place winner of 2018, second year in a row!
Venice Canals Christmas Lights
Yup, that was all on one house! My personal favorite was the house with the flags that matched the bridge with the Eiffel Tower:
Venice Canals Holiday Lights
Venice Canals Paris Eiffel Tower
We found the third place winner around the corner with a lovely bright display!
Venice Canals Christmas Lights
We fell in love with so many of these charming homes!
Bridges in the Venice Canals
Most of the bridges had a specific theme to them, Peace, Wish, Flags, all relating to the overall theme of “It’s a Small World” and “Peace on Earth.”
Boats with Christmas Decorations
There were a couple of the paddle boats decorated but I like the big boats in Marina Del Rey better!
Even the ducks decorated the boat! How cute! I’ve see the neighborhood library book exchanges where you take a book/leave a book but I’ve never seen it on a boat with a bench to enjoy your book on:
Venice Canals Book Exchange
There is also an annual Venice Canals Boat Parade, which had a theme this year of “It’s a Small World” see more here.
Other great places to go see Christmas displays in Los Angeles:
Descanso Garden’s Enchanted Forest of Light
We first went to this beautiful display 2 years ago and it has definitely become more popular! Waltz through the one-mile garden and enjoy the fabulous lights! 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge. Tickets $30. See more in our post: 5 Reasons to Visit Descanso Gardens: Forest of Light
El Segundo Candy Cane Lane
Candy Cane Lane lights up on the second Saturday in December and has been known to have the flashiest neighborhood displays in SoCal. El Segundo police have been known to block off the street during prime times to create a safe, pedestrian-only viewing experience, and you may even spot Santa posing for photos with kids. East Acacia Avenue and California Street, El Segundo
Woodland Hills Candy Cane Lane
Going strong since 1952, the home-owners of this Woodland Hills neighborhood are known for going crazy with Christmas decor! I used to go every night during the holidays as a kid. Nowadays there can be tons of traffic as visitors are encouraged to drive slowly and safely through the area. Lubao Street and Oxnard Street, Woodland Hills
Or there is ALWAYS Disneyland! :)
Disneyland Christmas Castle Lights
Here are some more posts about Los Angeles:
Christmas in Los Angeles - Descanso Gardens Enchanted Forest of Light
5 Things you must see at the DESCANSO GARDENS ENCHANTED FOREST OF LIGHT! This is the best way to get into the Christmas spirit in Los Angeles! Things to do in LA, Christmas Lights in Los Angeles #christmas #losangeles
5 Things You Must See at Descanso Gardens Enchanted Forest of Light
Descanso Gardens: 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
I LOVE Christmas! I mean LOVVEEEEEEE Christmas! We went to Descanso Gardens to see their holiday lights, although it wasn't quite Disneyland spectacular, it was an enchanting evening and a perfect night out with friends! We went December 2016 so there may be some slightly newer enhancements this year!
General Admission is $30 or save $5 if you are already a member. Buy tickets here.
Parking was free and there were plenty of spots. Don't forget your coat though, it was pretty chilly for Los Angeles!
Here are the 5 gardens you CANNOT miss this Holiday season!
Color Changing Tulip Garden
There were little food stands and bars throughout so you could sit and have cocoa or wine or wine cocoa! There is also a restaurant called Maple but all reservations were booked up the week we were going, so plan ahead!
It was about a mile walk all the way around. It was a few more steps if you were circling around trees and jumping on lights! :)
2. Hanging Lights on Trees
The colors of the reflected lights added extra enchantment here. This was my favorite part!
Sing it with me... "IIIIIIIIII wannnna swingggg from the chandelierrrrrr"
It’s hard to see, but these beautiful shimmery lights looked like millions of colored stars!
3. Lights you can step or JUMP on
Ok, sometimes the lights were too bright, but these did make fun sounds when you stepped on them!
These lights were even better! The lights lit up as you stepped (or jumped) on them!
4. Japanese Garden
Next up was the Japanese garden filled with glowing red lanterns.
5. Enchanted Forest of Light Garden
My favorite part was the Enchanted Forest with the pretty trees lit to look like fairies or some kind of majestic creature lived there!
Don’t miss out, buy your tickets today! General Admission is $30 or save $5 if you are already a member. Buy tickets here.
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Stumped what to get that special someone? See our holiday gift giving guide here!
See other LA related Posts here:
5 Reasons to Visit Fa La Land Christmas Pop-up in Los Angeles, CA
Fa La Land is the most magical Christmas Pop-up Museum in Los Angeles, CA! Located in ROW DTLA, Fa La Land is great for all ages and the whole family! Jump in ball pits, dance like no one is watching on a stage, and MEET SANTA! #falaland #christmas #losangeles
My sister and I went to the MOST WONDERFUL place of the year! We went to Fa La Land, a Christmas Pop-up in Downtown LA! This place was overboard festive filled with everything Christmas from elves on shelves to ball pits to SANTA! It was like the Museum of Ice Cream but filled with CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS instead!
GET TICKETS HERE: https://www.falaland.com/
Here are 5 reasons why you must visit FA LA LAND ASAP:
VISIT MRS. CLAUS
As you enter and pass the colorful swirly twirly gumdrops you enter Santa Land and meet Mrs. Claus! She helps you write a letter to Santa and put it in the mailbox. If you ask nicely, she’ll even take a selfie with you!
You must choose your fate… Naughty… or Nice…
Once you enter the room, you are greeted by a very friendly elf and have a golden ticket stamped with 1, 2 or 3… we’ll get to what that means in the end. Then you spin the Naughty or Nice wheel which definitely says everything about your behavior. Trish and I both got “Nice.” Wahoo!
2. SPIN THE NAUGHTY OR NICE WHEEL
Other items in the room included a countdown to Christmas, oversized Nutcrackers and a wall of Elves on Shelves!
Next you enter the forest of bright colors filled with creatures!
After we hopped on through the Christmas tree room, we entered Candyfornia which reminded me of Candyland and jumped into the gum drop ball pit!
3. JUMP IN A CANDY BALL PIT
Next, we had a dance party at Fa La Fest… it was better than Coachella!
4. DANCE LIKE NO ONE IS WATCHING
Last but not least, we met the big man himself! SANTA! I KNOW HIM! Side note, ELF is the best Christmas movie EVER! I could quote it all day.
5. MEET SANTA CLAUS
He asked what we wanted for Christmas and took pictures and selfies with us then gave us gifts! Santa is the best! The ticket we received from the first room indicated which box our present would come out of!
We left smiling and our cheeks hurting from smiling so much! You MUST visit Fa La Land before it leaves LA!
GET TICKETS HERE: https://www.falaland.com/
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Indulge in the Hidden Delights of the Museum of Ice Cream: A Sweet Wonderland of Art, History, and Unforgettable Experiences - Los Angeles, California
The Museum of Ice Cream came to LA as a pop-up museum in April of 2017, check out our tour and see what each room looked like! My favorite was the Sprinkle POOL! Museum of Ice Cream Los Angeles | Best Museums in LA | Most instagrammable places in LA #icecream #losangles #sprinkles
Update: Please note as of January 2025, the only locations open are in Austin, Boston, Chicago, New York, and Singapore. The location in Los Angeles, California, is no longer open and closed in 2018.
Check out the official Museum of Ice Cream website for current locations and tickets.
We went to my happy place, aka the Museum of Ice Cream, on April 30th, 2017. I loved everything about it since it was slathered in pink and involved ice cream and other sweet novelties. It's an Instagram haven, a social media dream, and a place to play in plastic sprinkles. Did you miss your chance to purchase tickets? I'll give you the grand tour!
Also, check out the best ice cream in Los Angeles ranked with a map: Best Ice Cream in LA
Welcome to the Museum of Ice Cream, where art, history, and unforgettable experiences swirl together in a sweet wonderland. Indulge your senses and embark on a whimsical journey through this delightful institution that celebrates the iconic frozen treat. With its vibrant and interactive exhibits, the Museum of Ice Cream invites visitors of all ages to dive headfirst into a world of pure imagination. Step inside and be greeted by a sensory explosion of colors, flavors, and textures. From a magical candyland, a sprinkle pool filled with joy awaits you, offering the ultimate Instagram-worthy moment. Explore rooms inspired by ice cream flavors like mint chocolate chip, strawberry, and vanilla, each one carefully curated to immerse you in the essence of these tasty treats. Gain a deeper understanding of the history and cultural significance of ice cream through fascinating exhibits that showcase its evolution over the years. Whether you're a die-hard ice cream fan or simply looking for a unique and interactive museum experience, the Museum of Ice Cream promises to deliver a memorable and delightful adventure. Come, indulge your senses, and let the magic of ice cream transport you to a world of pure sugary bliss.
Last summer I saw the Museum of Ice Cream in New York and thought, "I MUST GO, would it be unreasonable to buy a plane ticket just for it?" I didn't end up going and I'm SO GLAD it came out here. I started seeing rumblings on Facebook and my dear friends from all over tagged me in the Museum of Ice Cream post is coming to LA. My next question was, "WHEN/HOW DO I GET TICKETS?!" Luckily, we are platinum American express card holders and I was able to purchase my tickets on presale for $29! I ended up purchasing tickets a month in advance and for the next month anytime someone tagged me in a Museum of Ice Cream post, I simply let them know they were not to worry, tickets were sold out, but I was all set.
Hot Pink Telephones
I sat with my sister the night before picking out the perfect outfit to represent my love and affection for ice cream, saying, "the shirt with popsicles, strawberries, or plain bubblegum pink?" The big decision was the ice cream backpack or my Kate Spade ice cream purse. I feel like I chose wisely.
NOW ENTERING THE MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM!
There was a long line outside, which went relatively fast since they would let 12 people in at a time. You have a guide for the first 2 rooms and then you are on your own. There is a guide in every room to give samples, information, and make sure people are flowing from room to room. The only thing was, once you enter a new room, you can't go back.
We were given our first ice cream tasting of the day, and I was excited it was McConnell's ice cream. The flavor was earl gray and biscuit, it wasn't amazing and kinda disappointing.
There were many rooms, here is a collection of those rooms to get the coolvibe:
VEN-ICE CREAM... I GET IT!
THIS ROOM IS BANANAS.
The next room had banana wallpaper that was banana scented and cute swings!
Hanging yellow and pink Bananas at the Museum of Ice Cream art sculpture
Ice Cream CONE textured WALLpaper TO MATCH MY sweet Ice cream BACKPACK.
Next up, the mint chip room, where they are literally growing mint chip. “A fresh start is always an option. This room is for you.” So true! Also start fresh with the mochi! YUM!
This room had a fun house mirror and an arcade game with sun block. Didn't seem ice cream enough to me but it had lots of PINK!
The Popsicle and Gummy Bear Room
MELTING POPSICLES art exhibit at the Museum of Ice Cream
Trying to pull a popsicle off the wall
I WANT A PINK ONE!
Giant Gummy Bear sculpture Art
MY NEW FRIEND!
In the Gummy Bear Room, there were giant gummy bears, and they give you a sample of gummies! They lady running the room had 3 fun trivia facts about Gummy Bears, and Josh knew the answers to all three questions! When was the Gummy Bear invented? Where? What flavor is the green gummy bear?
IF YOU PRESS THE BUTTON THE LIGHTS ALONG THE WALLS OF THE ROOM CHANGE COLORS RAPIDLY.
RELATED POST: Check out the best ice cream in Los Angeles ranked with a map: Best Ice Cream in LA
Charcoal Ice Cream Exhibit Room
Black Charcoal Ice Cream Sculpture by Abel Bentin
Peruvian Artist Abel Bentin designed this room, expressing the corruption of the world. Pretty dark and depressing for an ice cream museum if you ask me.
Black Charcoal Ice Cream Sculpture by Abel Bentin
In this room, they served cones with charcoal cookie dough. It didn't taste very good. It was warm and the consistency was weird.
THE SPRINKLE POOL
There was about a 10-minute wait for the sprinkle pool, which they let you in 8 at a time. Upon entering the room, you take off your shoes and put your belongings into their lockers on the side. You then have about 3 minutes in the sprinkle pool. They are made of plastic and aren't actual sprinkles!
Sprinkle Pool - PLASTIC SPRINKLE filled pool at the Museum of Ice Cream
Finally we made it to the last room where they serve ice cream sandwiches. Instead of cookies they used pancakes and put vanilla ice cream in between - I Scream for Breakfast.
There was a gift shop at the end that had a few things, but nothing worth buying really. I was hoping for a spot to buy ice cream or a cone, but that didn't exist either. We took pictures of the merchandise instead.
I think I need an Ice Cream Sandwich swing for my porch!
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RELATED POST: Check out the best ice cream in Los Angeles ranked with a map: Best Ice Cream in LA
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Malibu Wine Safari - Things to do in Los Angeles, California
Wine tasting safari in Malibu? Yup, it exists. Check out our unusual LA excursion visiting and feeding animals with wine tasting in between at Malibu Wine Safari! Things to do in Los Angeles | Best things to do in LA #losangeles #winetasting #wine
Malibu Wine Safari – Malibu, California
Location: Malibu Wines | Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, 32111 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Website: https://www.lasafaris.com/#home
Hidden in the hills of Malibu are miraculous creatures that you wouldn't expect to run into, especially while wine tasting!
Stanley the giraffe!
For my best friend's birthday, we decided to go on a safari, a wine safari that is! After all, it IS her birthday, so wine not! Haha. The price of the ticket was $65 but we had a special deal on Groupon. The jeeps held about 9 people so it was perfect for our group of 8. There are also bigger jeeps for transporting larger parties.
Malibu Wine Safaris is part of Malibu Wines and just up the street in a parking lot on the right. We checked in and were picked up in a jeep safari vehicle and ventured through the 1,000 acres of Saddle Rock Ranch.
ANIMALS AT MALIBU WINES
The safari started by rolling through the property among the vineyards and getting acquainted with the animals. We were able to get up close and personal with them! Not only did we pet the animals but we also fed them! Animals included zebras, camels, alpacas, bison, water buffalo, yaks, and even Stanley the Giraffe!
Our guide was awesome! He let us take tons of pictures and showed us how to feed the animals or care for them with a sweet pet. We fed most of them carrots and boy were they excited to see us! An alpaca smelled my hair and I touched a Zebra, I couldn't believe it.
Look at the baby zebra!
Baby Zebra at Malibu Wines Safaris
We spent a lot of time with Stanley the giraffe! He loves lettuce and is not afraid to invade your personal space to get it! His tongue is rough and slimy as expected. He fur is coarse, but he has the best eyelashes you’ve ever seen! Fun fact: Stanley is named after Marvel’s Stan Lee!
Isn’t he the cutest?!
WINE TASTING AT MALIBU WINES
We tried their 6 different wines (mainly Saddlerock wines) in 2 locations across the ranch and even gallivanted through the vineyard.
Chardonnay and vineyards
My favorites were the Sauvignon Blanc and the Sangiovese, Alexander Valley (but I would also never say no to Rose bubbles). At the second tasting location there was a cheese pairing along with the wine and they had a really good gouda.
The grounds were gorgeous and had many different setups for weddings and events. If I hadn't already planned my wedding at the time, this place would have been a candidate!
Afterwards, we celebrated my friend’s birthday and enjoyed more wine at Malibu Wines where they have a lovely outdoor area with picnic tables and tasting bars. On weekends, they even have live music! Malibu Wines does not serve food but there is usually a food truck around. I recommend bringing your own food (don’t forget cookies or cupcakes)!
UPDATE: Malibu Wines tasting room burned down in the 2018 fires and haven’t reopened yet! But they do have another tasting room in West Hills: Malibu Wine and Beer Garden
Malibu Wines is the perfect place for any occasion: Birthday parties, Bachelorette parties, bridal showers, brunch, and friends gatherings.
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Malibu Wine Safaris Review - Los Angeles
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July is national ice cream month and National Ice Cream Day is Sunday, July 20th, 2025! See where you can celebrate with FREE ice cream and deals at a scoop shop near you or even free delivery! We’ll update this post all month, so keep coming back! Find deals for national ice cream day at your favorite places like Baskin-Robbins, Dairy Queen, Jeni’s, and Coldstone! Hooray for Ice cream deals on National Ice Cream Day!