June is Pride celebration month and when independent craft brewery, Common Space collaborated with a-woman founded, Coolhaus – LGBTQIA led ice cream and frozen dessert brand, they create a 0ne-of-a-kind beer. Pint of Pride is part of Common Space’s Good Beer Gives Back initiative to help fund socio-economic causes each year.
This Rainbow Sherbet Ice Cream Beer was Inspired by the rainbow of the LGBTQIA and the pride flag. It has a 7.0% ABV and is packed with pleasing pure Madagascar Vanilla Extract, Tangerine, Line, Raspberry and Pineapple Purees flavors.
Starting June 5, 2021 fans can sip Pint of Pride in the Common Space taproom in Hawthorne, or order this beer online for delivery or pickup. It is also served at select locations throughout Los Angeles and Orange County.
A portion of the sales of Pint of Pride will go directly to the Los Angeles LGBTQ Center. It helps provide health, social services and housing programs, culture and education, leadership and Advocacy.
Common Space Brewery was founded in Hawthorne, CA with the belief that we are all more similar than different, and that been has the power to help us all find a COMMON SPACE.
It’s summertime, and for those who enjoy backyard BBQs and pool parties, Partake Brewing offers inclusivity in a social setting with their non-alcoholic beers. Not only do their beers offer exceptional taste, but they are very low in calories (10-35 calories per can), and vegan. Made with all-natural ingredients, they pair perfectly with every occasion for those cutting back on alcohol.
Partake is offering their new limited edition seasonal Peach Gose, a non-alcoholic craft beer that is not only refreshing, but crisp and offers a hint of tartness.
In a recent interview, Ted Fleming, Partale Brewing Founder and CEO said, “We crafted Partake to cultivate inclusivity and sociability no matter what you choose to drink and because of that, we’re so excited to provide Partake loyalists with a pre-order option of our long-awaited and highly in-demand Peach Gose.”
It’s brewed with various malts, coriander, sea salt, and natural peach flavoring that adds a fun and fruity twist to the beloved sour style. This limited-edition no alcohol beer, sold out earlier this year, because of its combination of pleasing flavors and game-changing nutrition – only 15 calories, 2g carbs and zero grams of sugar.
The award-winning Partake Brewing has become a leader in craft non-alcoholic beer in North America with distribution in major retailers across Canada and the United States. It’s known for its craft non-alcoholic Pale, IPA, Blonde, Red, Dark and the Radler limited edition. Partake is transforming the non-alcoholic beer experience.
Order a 12-can pack for $29.99. Peach Gose will be available for pre-order sale online only starting today June 2 at 2 p.m. EST at drinkpartake.com.
Summer is the time to dine al fresco, enjoy grilled proteins with a beautiful glass of wine. One of Italy’s leading wine producers Banfi makes it easy to pair wine with food. Their wines are affordable, quality wines often under $20 a bottle, and some worth the splurge.
This elegant Pinot Grigio is uniquely produced from Montalcino in southern Tuscany, with lush tropical fruit notes distinguishing San Angelo from its northern counterparts. The San Angelo Pinot Grigio displays a fresh bouquet of pear, ripe peach, and tropical fruits. Crisp on the palate with refreshing acidity, this wine is excellent as an aperitif or paired alongside light dishes such as grilled vegetables and pasta primavera, as well as a range of seafood.
Recommendation: For seaside or beach sipping, enhanced by an ocean breeze and fresh caught seafood
La Pettegola’s translation has double meaning: it refers to coastal seabirds and is also a term for a gossiper. Delightfully fresh, La Pettegola Vermentino is the talk of the town for the quality-for-value it offers. The Vermentino grapes are sourced from around Maremma, and fermentation takes place in stainless-steel tanks to preserve the purity of this wine. Fruit-forward with notes of exotic fruits, a hint of spice, and touch of salinity from the proximity to the Mediterranean coast.
BanfiRosa Regale Sparkling White, Asti DOCG (SRP: $19.99)
Recommendation: Deviate from Prosecco for weekend brunches to add a crisp hint of sweetness to savory brunch favorites like eggs benedict or avocado toast.
Newly launched in May 2021, this Sparkling White offers an abundance of aromatics and a sophisticated, balanced sweetness that is indicative of the Rosa Regale name. Banfi produces this fresh, elegant sparkling wine from 100% Moscato Bianco grown in Piedmont. The Rosa Regale Sparkling White offers intense aromas of orange blossom with hints of acacia flowers and sage and is well-balanced with fresh. acidity and hints of honey.
Recommendation: Ideal for grilling season so pair with steak fajita skewers or turkey burger sliders.
A staple of the Banfi range, the Chianti Classico Riserva is made with predominantly Sangiovese and small amounts of Canaiolo Nero and Cabernet Sauvignon and aged for at least two years, with a minimum of one year in Slavonian oak barrels and spends an additional six months in bottle. The Chianti Classico Riserva is rich with deep cherry, leather, and subtle wood notes. On the palate, it offers supple tannins, bright acidity, and a lingering finish. Pair this wine with flavorful roasts, pastas, and charcuterie boards.
Recommendation: Toast to a graduate with this aptly named wine, whether you celebrate them with a fun, casual barbecue or an intimate dinner party.
Latin for “high honors,” Castello Banfi’s Magna Cum Laude combines Montalcino’s historic Sangiovese Brunello clone with international grape varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. Bottled unfiltered, this wine is full-bodied with notes of blackberries, plums, licorice, black olives, and pipe-tobacco. Its supple tannins and layered complexity makes for an ideal match for rustic bean soups such as the Tuscan classic Ribollita and grilled meats such as hangar steak.
Recommendation: A sophisticated gift for Father’s Day that dad can enjoy alongside his favorite steak to grill or age for years to come.
Castello Banfi’s Brunello di Montalcino sets the benchmark for elegance and refinement. Produced entirely from estate vineyards on the southern hills of Montalcino using select clones of Sangiovese, the 2016 vintage represents an iconic expression for both Brunello and Banfi. This wine is released after five years of aging, two of which are spent in oak barrels of various sizes, primarily French oak barriques with Slavonian oak casks. The result is a layered wine with aromas of tart cherry, spice, violets, and vanilla with hints of licorice. On the palate, this wine is full and well-structured, with velvety tannins and superb concentration.
My friends at LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad, CA invited me to come experience their new rides, attractions, restaurants, shops, in the new immersive world of THE LEGO MOVIE WORLD. The creative team has their hit movies come to life!
After a stressful week, it was so much fun to be a kid again, starting at an evening reception at SeaLife Aquarium. I watched jellyfish gracefully float in a clear tank, and walked through a clear tunnel to admire a variety of fish, sharks and rays glide by. One of my favorite exhibits was the bioluminescent tide and starry night in the Maldives.
Sipping wine and nibbling pulled pork sandwiches, Mac and Cheese, vegetable crudite and fresh baked cookies and vanilla ice cream, I enjoyed talking to Head of Public Relations North America at Merlin Entertainments, Julie Estrada tell me about the new LEGOLAND New York opening soon. Another familiar face was Senior Media Relations at Merlin Entertainments Group, Jake Gonzalez. He shared his excitement of the events that were going to take place the following day for the Grand Opening to the media in the morning and to the public in the afternoon.
Listening to LEGOLAND California Resort President Kurt Stocks share how the new The LEGO MOVIE WORLD is based on the blockbuster films The LEGO Movie and The LEGO Movie 2, piqued my interest even more.
We talked about how the unveiling of this new large land at the theme park, was put on hold in 2020, due to the pandemic. Finally the grand opening was happening on May 27, 2021. “THE LEGO MOVIE WORLD truly has something for everyone, and we are excited to welcome more guests to experience this new land which takes them from theater to theme park. It will play a key part in boosting tourism locally in Carlsbad and across Southern California,” shared Stocks.
Pink and gold streamers filled the air, as the official Grand Opening took place in The LEGO MOVIE World. The colorful land is the largest addition in the Park’s history, and features six interactive attractions, including Emmet’s Flying Adventure Ride.
Families buckle in aboard Emmet’s triple decker flying couch for a thrill-seeking adventure. The couch swivels to a full-dome virtual screen, and soon guests fill the misty vapor of flying through clouds to memorable lands such as Middle Zealand, Cloud Cuckoo Land, Pirates Cove and the Sistar System.
The Grand Opening celebration at LEGOLAND California
Fans will recognize familiar faces along the way including Sweet Mayhem, a star character from THE LEGO®MOVIE 2: The Second Part. Emmet’s Flying Adventure features cutting edge technology offering a multi-sensory experience. Feel the rush of falling from Unikitty’s Disco Drop and experiencing the many personalities of the fearless feline. The new ride drops, spins and bounces guests back down to earth with pleasing smells, thrills and lot’s of fun.
Mayor of Bricksburg with the President of LEGOLAND California Kurt Stocks
The adventure continues after the ride as young guests can climb and explore Benny’s Playship, ride Queen Watevra’s pink Carousel, create at Build Watevra You Wa’Na Build zone, and meet Emmet and all his friends in Emmet’s Super Suite.
This special area is geared for families with children between the ages of 2 and 12. Throughout LEGOLAND California, there are more than 60 rides for all ages and entertaining shows.
Fun rides for the entire family at LEGO MOVIE WORLD
Enjoy tasty themed treats such as Cloud Cuckoo Crepes, Benny’s Rocket Fuel and Everything is Ramen throughout the land.
Afterwards go ride the newer LEGO® City: Deep Sea Adventure submarine ride. Guests step inside and look out porthole windows to experience more than 2,000 real sea animals, sharks, rays and tropical fish living and swimming in the water.
SEA LIFE aquarium is home to more than 5,000 living creatures and incorporates play zones, informative fun facts and interactive quiz trails.
Other water adventures include LEGOLAND Water Park featuring more than seven slides, sandy beaches and the unique Build-A-Raft River plus Pirate Reef and LEGO Legends of CHIMA Water Park comprising 10 acres of water fun!
Extend your stay at LEGOLAND HOTEL or LEGOLAND Castle Hotel
LEGOLAND Hotel is the nation’s first LEGOLAND Hotel featuring 250 all themed rooms, with either a pirate, adventure, kingdom, LEGO® Friends and LEGO® NINJAGO™ decorated large family guest rooms.
North America’s first LEGOLAND Castle Hotel features Royal Princess, Knights, Magic Wizards and Dragons in their 250 rooms. There are restaurants, swimming pools and interactive activities for the entire family at both hotels.
For more information, visit http://www.LEGOLAND.com or call (760) 918-LEGO (5346).THE LEGO MOVIE WORLD is included in the price of admission to LEGOLAND California Resort. Guests can purchase tickets and reserve their spot through LEGOLAND California’s reservation system for their desired Park visit.
For more Resort information, operating schedule and to make reservations, visit: www.legoland.com/california.
Located at the former House of Blues site on the Sunset Strip, Wolfgang Puck recently opened his new all-day restaurant Ospero at the new boutique hotel, Pendry West Hollywood. The entrance is at street level, looking out to the Comedy Store, and is within blocks of his first Spago restaurant that he opened in 1982.
It’s been over 10 years since Puck, one of L.A.’s most famous chefs, has opened a restaurant. Puck became a household name for his award-season dinner parties, one-of-a-kind restaurants around the world, popular airport eateries and a line of culinary delights available at grocery stores.
Sit outside in the afternoon and watch the people and cars go by on Sunset Boulevard. In the evening, if you seek a quieter spot, ask to sit at the back of the restaurant on the al fresco dining terrace. The twinkling lights of the residences at the Pendry and views of greater Los Angeles are beautiful.
At Ospero there is a long dark blue bar and an open pizza kitchen. The low, soft leather teal-colored chairs resting on the Saltillo tile floor create an Italian trattoria feel.
Step into the lobby of the Pendry Hotel in West Hollywood and push the elevator to the 3rd floor to dine at Ospero.
We sat at a table for two at one of the coveted green velvet banquette tables and opened the dinner menu on our smartphones. Ospero features some neighborhood-friendly favorites that Puck made so popular during his days at Spago. There are iconic and innovative salads, pastas and wood-burning pizzas. Ospero also offers vegan dishes, proteins, a really good burger, breakfast favorites, grab-and-go items and a full bar.
We started with Puck’s chopped Chino Farm vegetable salad that our server had the kitchen split into two bowls. It was a generous portion of chopped lettuce with a variety of crunchy cube-shaped vegetables dressed lightly with a balsamic vinaigrette and dusting of parmesan cheese shavings. The salad was very fresh, healthy-tasting and offered layers of pleasing flavors.
Other popular salads and share dishes include a grilled tuna niçoise salad with a soft-boiled egg and meatballs al forno, bathed in a tomato, garlic and basil sauce with whipped ricotta.
Puck’s signature smoked salmon pizza with dill cream and salmon pearls is on Ospero’s menu, along with five others, including a wild mushroom pizza that we ordered and enjoyed. It arrived with Puck’s famous crust, thick and perfectly browned by the wood fire. A generous sprinkling of mushrooms topped a basil pesto spread, and chopped roasted garlic, caramelized onions and melted cheese medallions finished off the pizza.
Other pizzas include a house made lamb sausage with Calabrian chiles, mushrooms and onions; a spicy chicken with melted leeks; and a squash blossom and goat cheese pizza.
The Pendry displays one-of-a-kind art
There are four different pastas, including one named My Grandmother’s Cheese Ravioli, and fresh pappardelle with braised oxtail ragout and fava beans topped with pecorino cheese.
Those seeking grilled fish have a choice between Atlantic salmon served with a fresh arugula and fennel salad on top, or a tender wood oven cooked branzino served with a delicious gremolata and Tuscan kale.
The table next to us ordered the prime beef burger topped with melted white cheddar cheese, a slice of grilled red onion and garlic aioli spread on the bun which comes with fries.
Other proteins include a half Jidori chicken served with Tuscan potatoes and broccolini, and a grilled prime skirt steak served with rosemary and garlic fries.
Stay for dessert and order the creamy Basque cheesecake topped with a farmers market strawberry sauce and the pie of the day. Both are ethereal, rich and is sliced large enough for two to share.
Executive chef Mark Andelbrandt oversees the kitchen with Puck and has enjoyed an extensive culinary resume with the Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group. Besides being the executive chef at Spago at the Bellagio Resort & Casino, he works alongside Puck to create one-of-a-kind globally influenced fare.
Now he is managing the kitchens at both Ospero and the more exclusive Merois, which offers stellar views from the Pendry’s penthouse level, creating a fine dining menu using French techniques with an Asian spin.
The night I dined at Ospero, Merois was just opening to hotel guests and private club members. I’ll have to save that experience for another night. Puck’s son, Byron Lazaroff-Puck, oversees both of these restaurants.
Come in for breakfast at Ospero starting at 7 a.m. Lunch service begins at 11:30 a.m. The grab-and-go and pizza menus are available between lunch and dinner. Dinner is served nightly starting at 5 p.m. $$ 8430 Sunset Blvd., (323)918-3420.
World Environment Day is on June 5, 2021. It’s a day when the United Nations declared a day for encouraging worldwide awareness and action to protect our environment. Small changes can make a big impact, and the following products are made, because these companies care about our environment.
Bar None Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner – This hydrating shampoo and conditioner bars work like liquid shampoo and conditioner without any plastic! There is zero waste, just wet your hair and and Bar None Shampoo and Conditioner and apply on hair. It’s vegan and cruelty free and costs $12 a bar. It can be purchased atbar-none.co and urbanoutfitters.com.
2. HydroJug is a 1/2 a gallon container that helps in preventing 60 million plastic water bottles a year from being thrown away. The environmentally friendly HydroJug has a large opening, which is different from many with small openings, making them difficult to clean. All the BPA free bottles are translucent so you can see the contents inside and have a leakproof seal. They also make a straw that has a flexible base, so you can close it inside the HydroJug.
3. The Beeswax Company – collaborate with bees and beautiful things will happen. This premier supplier of handmade beeswax candles sourced from beekeepers in Texas, are naturally scented candles from the nectar of flowers and honey packed in the honeycomb. Beeswax is 100% natural and a renewable resource. The brand offers everything from tealight, pillars, votives, tapers, candlesticks, and seasonal and specialty creations. They are thecleanest burning candles on the market. Collaborate with bees and beautiful things happen.
4. swaggr is all about reducing the carbon footprint while making the best athletic socks made from 91% recycled plastic bottles. With a million tons of plastic waste entering our oceans each year, every $1 spent = $0.01 donated to supporting ocean conservation. What’s cool is these socks made in the U.S., is they have breathable mesh, arch support, and y-stitch heel construction for a fantastic fit. This helps eliminate toe and heel rubbing, blisters and odor. Wear with pride and a little swaggr in your step. One size fits all (from kids 2 to men’s 16 sizes). Available on Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and online with free shipping on orders over $50.
5. The Ecovessel BOULDER is a vacuum insulated water bottle that will keep your drinks hot or cold all day long. Made from premium 18/8 stainless steel, it features the signature TriMax® triple insulation and keeps drinks cold up to 60 hours and hot up to 12 hours. The BOULDER stainless steel water bottle also includes a removable strainer for tea, fruit, and ice cubes. This easy cleaning container is BPA Free, BPS Free, and Phthalate Free. Plus it is recyclable.
CAULIPOWER, the makers of America’s #1-selling cauliflower crust pizza,now debuts a delicious Cauliflower Pasta, that is available in frozen food aisles near you.
CAULIPOWER uses the power of fresh vegetables to make healthier, easier versions of the food you crave – pizza crust, pasta, tortillas, rice cauliflower, chicken tenders, and sweet potaTOASTS.
Their products taste like the food you crave, especially their new Cauliflower Pasta. My friends at the plant-forward company sent me a creative pasta box filled with everything I needed to make one of the best pasta dishes ever.
They make two varieties of pasta – Linguine and Pappardelle. Each one provides 1/3 cup of veggies per serving.
It’s a gluten-free pasta that offers the LOWEST calorie pasta at retail (dry, refrigerated, & frozen) with just 230 calories per serving. Made without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, each serving has 48% more fiber than traditional pasta, half the amount of sugar, and zero added sugar.
At $5.99, these delicious plant-based pastas feed your whole family in about three-minutes of cooking time.
Health conscious, food sensitive and vegetarians eaters can finally enjoy their favorite foods – cheesy, melty pizza, crispy chicken tenders, sweet and savory ‘toast’, soft tortillas, delicious riced cauliflower bowls, and frozen cauliflower pasta.
CAULIPOWER’s Cauliflower Pasta is available nationwide on Amazon, as well as in the freezer aisle of select retailers across the country including Shoprite, Fresh Thyme, Fresh Direct, and Jewel. The product will be also available at Walmart at the end of September, and in more than 14,000 stores including Gelson’s, Big Y, Dierbergs, and Kroger by the end of 2021.
Dr. Shica, a Doctor of Education and college professor in the educational services industry was laid off from her corporate job. She knew right then that it was time to turn her dream into a reality, and she created Dr. Shica’s Bakery online in Los Angeles. She took the risk to cheer up people during the pandemic with her delicious goodies delivered to those staying safer at home.
When she received a call from Oprah Magazine, because Oprah and Gayle loved her cookies, Dr. Shica’s Bakery was in the top three on Oprah’s Favorite Things out of 15,000 entries. She was then featured as a Black small business owner on GMA, and her Gourmet Dessert Boxes were featured on Tori Johnson’s ‘Deals and Steals,’ bringing a tremendous amount of visibility and recognition to Dr. Shica’s Bakery just after its inception.
With all this good fortune and success, she is now gearing up to open her first So Cal Bakery at the Westfield Culver City. Her Grand Opening is Thursday, May 20, 2021. Doors will open at 11 a.m.
Recently a dear friend sent me one of her delicious home-baked sweet box to bring some sunshine inside my home.Everyone loved her sweet and soft cookies with a just out of the oven texture. Baked to perfection, they are slightly crispy on the edge and a tiny bit gooey in the center. Her bite size cupcakes are moist and flavorful, and she makes three different types of “Almost Famous” brownies.
Dr. Shica’s is introducing red velvet cupcakes (her momma’s recipe) with delicious frosting and red sugar sprinkles.
New Lemon Drop Cookie – a bright and tangy lemon cookie, bursting with sweet lemon flavor.
Sprinkle Delight Cookie (see photo) is a celebration baked into every bite of these delectable sugar cookies with sprinkles.
Gigi’s Chocolate Chunk Cookie straight-out-of-the-oven with irresistible chocolate chunks.
Dr. Shica’s rich and fudgy Almost Famous Brownies are baked in three flavors – Original Fudge, M&M, and Southern Pecan.
Order a Pastry Party Box filled with sweet treats, a personalized card, festive napkins and decorations.
Growing up in a small town in South Carolina, Dr. Shica enjoyed baking with her grandmother. She discovered the best desserts come from using the best ingredients. Now, inside her first Dr. Shica’s Bakery location, Los Angelenos can get some of her delectable Southern-style desserts and have them delivered nationwide. Dr. Shica’s mission is to continue to consistently deliver comfort in a Bakery Box directly to people’s homes and to share her home-baked flavors and brighten anyone’s day. All treats are individually wrapped and are made with only fresh, real ingredients including cage-free eggs, organic cocoa powder, real butter, and cane sugar without any preservatives.
Known for her optimism and warm personality, Dr. Shica is so excited to open a new retail bakery at Westfield Culver City. She hopes her accomplishments inspire other women of color to work hard and aspire to their dreams. “I am proud to be a Black woman business owner. We can provide jobs to our community and we are able to inspire young women who may want to start their own businesses. Best of all, we have been able to bring desserts and smiles to people’s homes during this pandemic and now we get to introduce our new retail bakery at Westfield Culver City,” states Dr. Shica.
Dr. Shica’s Bakery will be open every Monday through Thursday from 11 am to 8 pm, and every Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 9 pm. Sunday her bakery is open from 11 am to 7 pm. For more information and to order a bakery box – www.DrShicasBakery.com.
Make a reservation on the garden patio at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele for Italian specialties including carpaccio di pesce with scallops, tuna, and swordfish; eggplant parmigiana; ravioli di ricotta with cherry tomato and fresh basil sauce; or a slow cooked Jidori chicken served with mashed potato. The full menu is also available. Reservations can be made via Open Table or by calling the restaurant directly. 1534 N. McCadden Place, Hollywood (323)366-2408.
2. Pie Hole edible flower pie holes
This Mother’s Day, instead of edible arrangements and bouquets, give mom a dozen flower pie holes to enjoy. Available at all locations, The Pie Hole is taking Mother’s Day pre-orders for edible bouquets of pie holes. They are making strawberry and blueberry pie bites topped with whipped cream and edible wild flowers for $29.95 per dozen or $2.95 per pie hole. Pre-orders can be made for in-store pick up or delivery. For the nearest location, go to www.thepieholela.com. 6314 Hollywood Blvd., (323)963-5174.
3. Cafe Gratitude’s Chocolate Box
Express gratitude for mom this Mother’s Day with a plant-based chocolate box from Cafe Gratitude. Each chocolate box is crafted with vegan ingredients and contains a variety of truffles and chocolates for $16. Inside are coconut almond truffles, Brazil nut ganaches, and almond butter squares. These special boxes are available now through May 9. Go online for locations https://cafegratitude.com. 639 N. Larchmont Blvd., (323)580-6383.
4. The Front Yard at The Garland
Celebrate mom on May 9 at The Front Yard enjoying a three-course meal on the expansive outdoor patio, paired with signature cocktails, wine or local brews. Start with a choice of beef carpaccio; sauteed shrimp or roasted tomato soup. Entree options include smoked salmon Benedict; 10 oz English cut prime rib; Chilean sea bass; lobster bolognese or fire-roasted Mary’s half chicken. Vegan and vegetarian options are available upon request. Finish with a chocolate espresso pot de creme; rum butter pound cake or peach frangipane tart. This special meal is $65 for adults and $29 for children under 12. Reservations are required via OpenTable. 4222 Vineland Ave., North Hollywood. (818)255-7290.
5. Take Mom to dine at the beach at Hotel Casa del Mar
Treat mom to a beachside brunch or dinner overlooking the ocean on May 9 at Terrazza Restaurant inside Hotel Casa del Mar. The three-course specialty prix-fixe brunch menu is served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Menu highlights include fresh oysters, crab cake eggs Benedict, heirloom tomato and burrata from Puglia, grilled local bass, and fresh tagliatelle. Desserts include a pecan and walnut chocolate brownie, coconut panna cotta, or poached pear with cactus coulis. The restaurant offers a children’s menu that includes beef sliders, chicken fingers, and cheese pizza. This three-course brunch starts at $85 per person. A special dinner menu is $95 per person from 5 to 9 p.m. 1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica (310)581-5533.
6. Huckleberry
Order today, May 6 before 3 p.m., a variety of fun and easy brunch kits for mom on Mother’s Day. Choose from huevos rancheros, avocado toast or country breakfast kits. There are also delicious heat and serve items, such as market veggie frittatas, roasted Yukon Gold breakfast potatoes, chocolate cherry croissant bread pudding, blueberry cornmeal cake, and a Mother’s Day cookie decorating kit. Add a mimosa kit, grapefruit spritzer kit, or coffee and tea boxes. Order online through Tock or calling from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Orders are available for pickup on Sunday, May 9 starting at 9 a.m. Due to limited availability, some items may sell out. 1014 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica (310)451-2311.
7. Mom will enjoy Ospero at Pendry West Hollywood
Chef Wolfgang Puck is back on the Sunset Strip at Pendry West Hollywood. His new casual luxe Ospero restaurant offers breakfast staples, a full bar, Farmers Market salads, wood burning pizzas, pastas, vegan dishes, seafood specialities and spectacular desserts. Dine overlooking the lively Sunset Strip and the Comedy Store or on the intimate outdoor terrace overlooking Pendry Residences and Los Angeles beyond. For a much-needed rejuvenating Mother’s Day gift, give mom a facial and massage from the newly-opened Spa Pendry. Reserve a 60-minute massage and facial, and mom will receive a complimentary gift. Afterwards, moms can to Bar Pendry to enjoy a special La Chamomile cocktail, specially curated for the occasion with gin, chamomile tea, fresh lime, and french herbs. 8430 Sunset Blvd., (323)918-3420.
8. Conservatory re-opens for dinner and Mother’s Day brunch
Enjoy dinner and weekend brunch outdoors with a reservations on the Conservatory website or Resy. The dinner menu includes charred maple honey nut squash; popcorn chicken; Bolognese pappardelle with Beyond Meat ragu; Cali turkey wrap; Nicoise salad; Conservatory burger; breakfast burrito; tres leches french toast, and Conservatory brunch bowl with eggs your way, bacon or lox, aged cheddar, and tater tots. Beverage Director Lisa Beaumont’s specialty cocktail menu includes rose’ sangria carafes and mimosa kits for four people, plus some refreshing mocktails. 8289 Santa Monica Blvd., (323)654-0020.
9. Roses and Rosé for Mother’s Day at STK Steakhouse
Make Mother’s Day sparkle with specialty brunch items like lobster and eggs Benedict or cinnamon french toast. Mom’s can enjoy $9.99 rosé wine specials featuring Whispering Angel and Chandon Sparkling Rosé during both brunch and dinner on May 9. For those staying home, there is a Mother’s Day Surf, Turf and Vine basket available for take out and delivery for $129. Pre-order today two filets with grilled prawns, cheesecake and a bottle or Whispering Angel Rosé. A red or white wine alternative is also available. Reservations and pre-orders can be made at https://stksteakhouse.com/mothers-day. 930 Hilgard Ave., Westwood (310)659-3535.
This article was featured in the Beverly Press on May 6, 2021.
If you can make a good margarita at home, go for it! Or go to the grocery store or Target and pick up a 4-pack of Cutwater Tequila Margarita. It’s the next best thing! It doesn’t have artificial sweeteners, an aftertaste or tastes to sugary. I love it’s floral aroma with a smooth finish. CUTWATER makes a house-made mix of tart lime juice, a pinch of pure cane sugar, and a hint of orange.
Have your Cinco de Mayo celebration at home, the beach or nearby park with Gracias Madre’s new Cinco de Mayo party kit. Inside are four canned margaritas, guacamole, salsa and chips, deconstructed Jackfruit taco kit, esquites (corn off the cob), and a mini bottle of mezcal. The cost of this kit is $100 (a $240 value), and pre-orders are available today for this organic, plant-based fiesta. Go online. 8905 Melrose Ave., (323)978-2170.
The May 5 fiesta is decorated for guests to enjoy Mexican food classics, tasty margaritas, and great music. Drink options include a Cadillac margarita, frozen mango margarita and shots of Casamigos or Patrón. Seating is available on the extended outdoor patios and in the cantina a lively dining experience. 8225 Sunset Blvd., (323)380-7474.
Celebrated chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken invite local Los Angelenos to celebrate Cinco de May by offering $5 tacos, $5 beers, and cocktail specials and Mexican wines ranging from $8 to $10 all day. This fiesta special is for dine-in only. The regular menu will also be available for dine-in, takeout and delivery. Lunch is available at the walk-in counter service. Dinner reservations are available for indoor and outdoor patio seating from 4 to 8 p.m. 1920 Santa Monica Blvd., (310)451-1655.
Chef Brad Long is cooking up Cinco de Mayo specials that include Linda’s classic taco platters made with grass-fed ground beef in hard shell tacos; poblano chile rellenos and seasonal ceviche. Drink specials include prickly pear margaritas, mini margarita flights and mezcal flights. For those staying at home, pick up the ‘Ultimate Party Pack’ for $185. It’s a heat and serve package that feeds 4 to 6 people and includes nachos; Linda’s classic taco kit, half dozen organic chicken enchiladas, family-size Caesar salad, organic rice pudding and a large bottle of margaritas. There are some à la carte options too, like chips, guacamole and salsa, large bottles of hibiscus margaritas or spicy mezcal margaritas. The deadline to pre-order is Monday, May 3 at 5:00 p.m. Curbside pickup available on May 5 from 12 to 4 p.m. There are limited to-go orders placed on Cinco De Mayo. Tallula’s is only accepting direct phone orders or online takeout/delivery through the Rustic Canyon Family app and ChowNow. E-mail events@tallulasrestaurant.com. Make a reservation to enjoy indoor and outdoor dining at Tallula’s from 4 to 10 p.m. 118 Entrada Drive, (310)526-0027.
El Torito’s founder, Larry Cano was a pioneer in delivering Mexican cuisine to Southern California. He always celebrates Cinco de Mayo by serving delicious Mexican food, and El Torito’s famous margaritas and imported bottled beer, along with live mariachi bands and DJs (where county guidelines permit). On May 5, El Torito is offering a build-your-own taco bar where guests are served by El Torito staff. The party starts at 3 p.m., and seating is available indoors and outdoors. Margarita and taco stations are set up for guests to order their preferred beverages and tacos conveniently. 13715 Fiji Way, (310)823-8941 and 3360 Ocean Park Blvd., (310)450-8665.
Celebrate on May 5, all day at Nueva with chefs Vartan Abgaryan and Mesraim Llanez, as they present their cantina menu with south-of-border cocktails and agaves. The fiesta begins at 12 p.m. to 11 p.m., with a variety of frozen margaritas including cilantro and nasturtium, and pineapple-infused Aperol. There is also a rotating selection of sparkling, rosé, white and red wines from Mexico, and non-alcoholic beverages. Select one of the many ceviches, including a seafood coctel or vegan ceviche. Nueva’s tacos include roasted heirloom carrot; falafel tacos; tempura sea bass; Mediterranean octopus; chicken tinga; and a pork belly chicharron taco. Salads include a smokey Caesar and a colorful street cart salad with mango, pineapple, jicama, cucumber, radish, and lime. Larger plates include yellow corn mole (vegan) with roast squash; wood-grilled branzino; Mary’s free range roasted half chicken; and a grilled 16oz bone-in prime rib eye with roasted vegetables. Neuva also offers a children’s menu. Sit out on two outdoor dining patios or inside the dining room. Takeout and curbside pick-up is available. Delivery is through Doordash. 822 Washington Blvd., (310)747-6050.
The Baja-inspired restaurant is offering an exclusive menu just for Cinco de Mayo that is available for dine-in only from 3 p.m. to close. Menu highlights include guacamole; chorizo and mushroom con queso; taco “vampiro” asada made with double tortilla stuffed with carne asada, melted cheese, serrano chiles, scallions, guacamole, pico de gallo, chipotle sauce, and topped with cotixa. Taco plates offer a choice of two sides, including black beans, red rice, quinoa salad, or spicy slaw. Enjoy with SOL’s specialty margaritas made with fresh citrus juice, along with bottled Mexican beer and tequila shots. To-go orders can be placed over the phone. Online ordering will not be available during the day. 12775 Millennium Dr #160, (424)289-0066.
On May 5, enjoy all-you-can-eat street tacos and two Cazadores cocktails for $20. Starting from 4 to 9:30 p.m., Lanea’s signature tacos include lamb wrapped in agave leaves and pit-roasted underground for 36 hours. There is also grilled steak and chicken; shrimp topped with mango, green and red peppers and avocado; a spinach and mushroom taco; and a vegan Beyond Meat taco. All tacos are handmade to order on 100% gluten-free corn tortillas and most are served with guacamole, cilantro, and onion. This special meal has a 60-minute table limit. For those who don’t select this special, sip an $11 margarita and a la carte taco starting at $2.50. 217 Broadway, (424)265-7437.
10. Crack open a “MACHETE” CERVEZA. Actor and humanitarian Danny Trejo now has a new distinctive black and gold Mexican style lager. Trejo’s Cerveza was only available in the Los Angeles area through retailers including Bevmo, Whole Foods, Ralphs and Total Wine. Now all over California and AZ, It’s bold, cool, and distinctive taste can be enjoyed at home to pair with mild to spicy food, and in a Michelada. Per Trejo and Burbank’s Lincoln Beer Company, the hops have been dialed back to make the beer smoother and less bitter than most Mexican style lagers. Lincoln Beer Company was established in 2016. As an innovator and producer of fine ales and lagers, the brewery strives to match groundbreaking flavor with flawless execution.
“I’m excited to share the taste of Trejo’s Cerveza with Californians everywhere,” said the Trejo’s Tacos Founder. “We’ve been working on increasing our production capacity and it’s been enjoyed all over LA. But the time has come and we’re ready for so many more people to give it a try.”
Wine Warehouse carries it in 16 oz, 4 pack cans. It is also available in Arizona by Arizona Beer & Cider.
Celebrity Cruises President and CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo unveiled the company’s third Edge Series ship, Celebrity Beyond. These ships take cruise travel to a new realm of luxury.
Lutoff-Perlo assembled a dream team of modern lifestyle icons to create a spectacular travel adventure. Celebrity Beyond design talents include award-winning British designer Kelly Hoppen CBE; American designer Nate Berkus; and Paris-based design firm Jouin Manku and British architect Tom Wright.
Celebrity’s Culinary Ambassador is Michelin-starred chef, Daniel Boulud. Le Voyage is his first restaurant at sea and his world-class menu matches the restaurant’s ambiance with intimate cacoon seating. Diners are surrounded by luminous portals highlighting the themes of journey and travel. ‘Glass Flutes’ provide light and texture to the enchanting environment. Chef Daniel prepares a customized sweet wishing guests ‘au revoir’ at the conclusion of their meal.
Spacious Suites on Celebrity Beyond
Onboard are 30 distinct restaurants, bars and lounges, including the Nate Berkus-designed Sunset Bar incorporating his favorite travel spots in the design elements. “When a good designer thinks about how something should look, they’re thinking about how people should feel. I took inspiration from some of my favorite places in the world – the best parts of Mexico, the best parts of Greece, the best parts of Uruguay with the best parts of California. I wanted this space to represent aspiration. I wanted it to represent relaxation, in an upmarket way.” said Berkus.
The multi-level, multi-terraced Sunset Bar is 180% larger than other Edge Class ships and redefines the ship’s aft.
Nick Berkus designed Sunset Bar
Celebrity Beyond offers a resort-within-a-resort at The Retreat. The exclusive lounge and sundeck area also has a private restaurant Luminae, and a dedicated team of buttlers, attendants and concierge available 24/7.
The tennis court sized Magic Carpet offers endless views cantilevering 15 decks above the sea. Enjoy a drink, dine or relax on one of the most unique design innovations on a cruise ship.
Ride the Magic Carpet
The ship offers 1,646 staterooms and modern two-story villas transforming the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. These villas offer a private plunge pool and veranda offering glorious ocean views, plus direct access to The Retreat Sundeck.
Two story staterooms with plunge pools
Be one of the first to depart on Celebrity Beyond’s maiden voyage on April 27, 2022. Departures are from Southampton, England, on a 10-night Western Europe cruise visiting Boudeaux, France; Lisbon, Portugal; and Seville, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona, Spain. The ship will sail on a variety of Mediterranean adventures including nine-night Italian Riviera and French itineraries, and 10-night Greek Isles itineraries through early October. Afterward, the Celebrity Beyond heads to the Caribbean.
This weekend Beyond Meat is unveiling their newest Beyond Burger® at The Beyond Burger Mobile Pop-Up in Los Angeles and five other cities (Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Miami, and New York) on Saturday, May 1 and Sunday, May 2 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Exclusive Taste of the new and healthier Beyond Burger
Fans throughout the country can get a sneak peek to taste the new Beyond Burger for FREE before it enters grocery stores coast to coast during the week on May 3. Visit one of the exclusive mobile pop-ups on Saturday, May 1st and Sunday, May 2nd from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m, while supplies last at:
● Los Angeles (The Brig, 1525 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291)
● Chicago (Pioneer Court, 401 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611)
● New York City (Barclay’s Center, 620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217)
The new Beyond Meat is meatier, juicier, and more sustainable. The vegan patty contains fewer calories and 35% less fat and saturated fat compared to traditional 80/20 beef, yet is still full of flavor.
Beyond Meat’s brand new Beyond Burger will be sold in a 2-pack, the brand’s first-ever value 4-pack (MSRP: $9.99) and in a 1lb. Beyond Beef pack.
Dine, Travel & Entertainment 