Nachos in Los Angeles

Image From Pixabay

Nachos, cheese and guacamole sound pretty delicious on this Friday afternoon. We want to celebrate National Nacho Day with all of our favorite toppings on tortilla chips. Lucky for us, Los Angeles has so many great restaurants to choose from for our nacho lunch or dinner. If you don’t feel like trying one of these delicious restaurants, you can celebrate by making your own nachos while relaxing at Palazzo Westwood. 

The Lobos Truck

You might have to find the truck throughout Los Angeles, but it will be worth it. You must try their green dragon wachos. What are wachos? Nachos are waffle-fried nachos. Your wachos include sauce-tossed waffle fries, guacamole, scallions and ranch dressing. This sounds like the perfect Friday lunch treat. 

El Flamin’ Taco

This great food truck in Los Angeles has the famous carne asada nachos.  You can find them outside of the bars after closing time. These nachos are perfect for when you are hungry late at night or during the day. The carne asada nachos include refried beans, cheddar, avacado, jalapeños and sour cream. 

TLT FOOD

How do pork belly nachos sound? TLT Food is one of the only restaurants that makes this delicious unique take on nachos. You get tortilla chips with braised pork belly and more. This unique recipe is thanks to the Chef Daniel Shemtob.

Tacos Villa Corona

Tacos Villa Corona in Atwater Village will be tempting for your tastebuds. You can order the Chilaquiles. These are delicious breakfast nachos for your commute to work. This morning restaurant closes at 2pm so make sure to get there early in the day. You can even switch it up by trying their chilaquiles burrito. 

HomeState

HomeState in East Hollywood is a place we recommend for everyone to visit. What can you get at HomeState to celebrate National Nacho Day? Their specialty is Frito Pie in a bag. This recipe is Fritos topped with chile con carne or black beans, cheddar cheese, lettuce, sour cream, tomatoes, pickled jalapeños and pickled red onions. 

LA Restaurant Week

Image From Pixabay

We love exploring LA and trying all of the delicious restaurants that are around us. However, this can get really expensive throughout the year. This is why we love LA Restaurant Week. LA Restaurant Week gives you the chance to explore as many restaurants as your schedule allows for a set price. You can find new dishes or visit your favorite restaurants all week long. Check out some of these Westwood restaurant specials that are close to your home at Palazzo Westwood.



Fundamental LA

This restaurant located in the heart of Westwood is serving unique cuisine for lunch and dinner. All of the meals at Fundamental LA are made from the freshest farmers' market ingredients. Fundamental LA is open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-Close, and their happy hour is Tuesday-Saturday from 5:30pm-7pm. They have a great special for LA Restaurant week at Fundamental LA. They are offering a $15.00 lunch special as well as a $40.00 dinner special that includes four courses. You can visit Fundamental LA at 1303 Westwood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90024.

Palomino Restaurant and Bar

This upbeat city restaurant features New World cuisine made with Old Wood cooking techniques. If you are looking for a night out with friends or a simple dinner, Palomino Restaurant is the perfect place for your group. This gastropub is open from 11am-9pm Sunday-Saturday.  The bar is open extended hours throughout the week. Palomino is offering a two course lunch for $20.00 and a three course dinner for $40.00 for LA Restaurant Week. You can try this gastropub inspired food at 10877 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90024.

STK Los Angeles

The final restaurant that we are featuring is located in the W Hotel in West Beverly Hills. STK Los Angeles is a modern steakhouse that includes a chic lounge. You will always be able to enjoy a DJ at this unique and popular LA dining spot. STK is open daily from 5pm-11pm Sunday-Thursday and 5pm-1am Friday and Saturday. You can also try out their delicious happy hour all night Monday and Tuesday or from 6pm-8pm Wednesday through Saturday. STK is a must see for LA Restaurant Week. They are featuring a $50.00 multi course dinner throughout all of LA Restaurant Week.

These are just three of the hundreds of restaurants that are participating in LA Restaurant Week. You have 14 days from July 13th - July 26th to experience as many restaurants in LA as you can. Make sure to make your reservations early to beat the crowds and waits. 

Fourth of July Festivities

Image courtesy Pixabay

Tomorrow, our country celebrates its 239th birthday, and no city knows how to celebrate quite like Los Angeles does! If you want to mix up your typical Independence Day routine and get out of your apartment home at Palazzo Westwood Village, plenty of events lie in store for you! Our area has celebrations including anything from the expected fireworks spectaculars to cemetery celebrations!

Hollywood Bowl 
"King of Motown" Smokey Robinson and the Los Angeles Philharmonic will serenade audiences Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 PM. Performances will be followed by a spectacular fireworks display. Tickets are available online, and children 12 and under are half price.

If you don't want to see the concerts beforehand, but would like to view the fireworks, the Hollywood Bowl Overlook in the Santa Monica Mountains. Be sure to get there early to snag a good parking spot!

Hollywood Forever Cemetery
If watching a screening of "Top Gun" outdoors at a Hollywood cemetery sounds like your ideal Fourth of July celebration, head over to Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Watching a film in the cemetery may sound strange on the surface, but it is one of the city's most popular summer events. Make sure you get there early!

The Queen Mary
If you have friends or family in Long Beach, the July 4th celebration on The Queen Mary is the perfect excuse to go and visit! Watch the fireworks from aboard a harbor cruise, enjoy a vintage family circus, dine on some barbecue at The Aquarium of the Pacific, and more! Haute Living calls Long Beach's fireworks display one of the best in Southern California.

Grand Park
Pack a picnic, gather your pets and head downtown for a huge summer block party! The event features food trucks, live music, and more. Best of all, this event is free to attend! 

What does your holiday weekend have in store for you? Whether you're hosting a cookout, lounging by the Palazzo Westwood Village pool with friends, or are attending one of these events, we want to know! Share you plans on our Facebook and Twitter pages! Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Top Los Angeles Beaches

Image courtesy Pixabay

Definitely one of the best parts of Los Angeles living is being so close to the ocean and the sand that adorns the coastline. You can turn any weekend into a vacation just by taking a short drive to the shore! Which beaches are worth going to? While Los Angeles has many fantastic beaches, these are just a few of our favorites, all of which are less than an hour away from your home at Palazzo Westwood Village.

Surfrider Beach

Known for its appearances in movies like Gidget, Surfrider Beach in Malibu is the beach to be for, you guessed it, surfing. Walk east along the beach and you will reach the pier, which is a picnicking spot for many visitors. If you are new to the area, this is also an excellent spot to take surfing lessons. Visitors may park for free along the Pacific Coast Highway. Malibu is a little under an hour away from your apartment home.

Dockweiler State Beach

Located in Playa del Ray, Dockweiler State Beach is a wonderful location if you want space to lay out and soak up the sun. It's also a great location to get in a good workout early in the morning, as it is surrounded by beachside baths and a biking trail. Its three mile long shoreline is also home to a hangline facility, volleyball courts and an RV campground. Dockweiler Beach is about 40 minutes away by car.

Santa Monica State Beach

Santa Monica State Beach has practically everything - a Ferris wheel, boardwalk, arcades and more. Although it's usually pretty crowded, if you head there early enough, you can claim your spot in the sand. The biggest draw is the Santa Monica Pier, which is also frequently featured on the little and big screens. Visitors may also enjoy summer concerts or have their fortune told. This beach is about 30 minutes away from Palazzo.

While our country is home to more than 75 beaches, depending on what activities you would like to complete will usually help you narrow down your choices. Any of the beaches we highlighted above have a broader appeal, but if you are seeking a fishing experience, hiking, or camping, there are plenty of other beaches nearby that will suit your needs. 

Which of our area's many beaches is your absolute favorite? Share yours with us on the Palazzo Westwood Village Facebook and Twitter pages.

Additional sources consulted:

LA Weekly

Time Out Los Angeles

Beer Week is Back

Image courtesy Pixabay

Whether you have a love for all things craft beer or have just had a long, hard week at the office, relief is on the way - the 7th annual Los Angeles Beer Week is just about here! This year's LA Beer Week runs from June 20 through 28, and has a variety of events in store throughout the city during this time. Here are a few of this year's most notable events:

Kickoff Event

The LA Brewers Kickoff Event is tomorrow, June 20, on the south lawn of Exposition Park. More than 75 breweries will be in attendance, with 200 types of beer in tow. In addition to food trucks (including the Grilled Cheese Truck) and beer, there will be live entertainment for your listening pleasure. The event will be held from noon to 5 PM. Tickets are available online, but please be advised that VIP tickets for the event have already sold out.

Father's Day Vinyl Brunch

If you want to treat your beer-loving Dad to a nice Father's Day outing on Sunday, head to Phantom Carriage for brunch. Enjoy "Beermosas," Bloody Marys, Sangria and plenty of one-off beers as you listen to some old-school vinyl records. While some LA Beer Week events charge an admission fee, this event is free to enter and begins at 12:10 PM.

Vegan Cheese & Beer Pairings

Even if your diet does not include animal products, you can still participate in LA Beer Week. Join Golden Road Brewing at the pub for an evening of vegan cheese and beer pairings. Guests will enjoy vegan cheese from Follow Your Heart paired with some of Golden Road's favorite brews. The event takes place Monday, June 22 from 5-9 PM. 

Rarest of the Rare

Smog City Brewing's Rarest of the Rare event has taken a break for the past two years, but it will triumphantly return on Saturday, June 27. Smog City's three bars will serve retired beers, bourbon barrel-aged beers, sour beers and experimental beers. Don't feel the need to drink everything all at once - this event lasts from noon to 8 PM.

These are just a handful of the week's planned events. To view the full schedule, visit the official event website. If you have yet to come up with the perfect Father's Day gift idea, some of these events could be just the ticket! Please remember to travel safely and responsibly from your home at Palazzo Westwood Village to each of these events. Get ready to sit back, relax, and sip on a nice cold brew!

Have you attended any LA Beer Week events in the past 7 years? Which events are at the top of your list this year? Share your thoughts with us on the Palazzo Westwood Village Facebook and Twitter pages!

Additional sources consulted:

LAist

LA Pride 2015

June is National LGBT Pride Month, and this weekend Los Angeles is ready to celebrate! The 45th annual LA Pride begins today and lasts through Sunday, June 14! Get ready for three days parades and festivals in West Hollywood!

Pride Festival
The main events of the Pride Festival takes place Saturday, June 13 and Sunday, June 14 at West Hollywood Park. Hours on Saturday are noon to 1 AM, and 11 AM to 11 PM on Sunday. Both days of the festival include performances from some of music's most popular artists. While most of the pride fest activities are Saturday and Sunday, there is a festival tonight from 5 PM through midnight.

Festival experiences include the Main Stage, Art & Culture Exhibit, Country Pavilion, Erotic City, Hop-Hop Stage, Latino Carnivale, Sizzle, TranStation and Youth Space. There are also an area for food and beverages. Main Stage performers include headliners Ke$ha, Wilson Phillips (on Saturday) and Fifth Harmony (on Sunday).

Pride Parade
The Pride Parade takes place Sunday at 11 AM at the intersection of Crescent Heights and Santa Monica Boulevards. Activitsts the Rev. Troy Perry and Zoey are the parade's grand marshals, and the cast and crew of Amazon's Transparent are the community grand marshals. 

If you are interested in seeing the festivities in person, tickets can be purchased online. Ticket options range from $20 for a General Admission ticket to $115 for a Festival Door Multi-Day pass.

If you driving to the event, parking is available at the Kings Road Parking Structure, Hancock Parking Structure, La Jolla/Havenhurst Lot, La Peer Lot, Orange Grove Lot, Spaulding Lot and Pacific Design Center. If you park on the street, you do need to observe the parking regulations. "Pride Ride" will offer a continuous shuttle loop along Santa Monica Boulevard with shuttles scheduled to arrive every 15 minutes. 

Getting to LA Pride from your apartment home at Palazzo Westwood Village by car will take about 20 minutes.

Have you attended any of the previous Pride festivals? What are you looking forward to seeing this year? Share your thoughts on Palazzo's Facebook and Twitter pages!

Additional sources consulted:
Los Angeles Daily News

Celebrate National Donut Day

Whether you spell it "doughnut" or "donut," the important takeaway from this post is that today is National Donut Day! Sure, any day of the year has the potential to become a donut day, but on this day, and this day alone, you could eat donuts for breakfast, lunch and dinner and it would be socially acceptable. If you plan to indulge in these sweet, doughy pastries today, here is where you should go:

Donut Snob
As their motto states, being snobby about donuts is what Donut Snob "lives for," and for that, we are grateful! Donut Snob was featured in USA Today as one of the "tastiest donut shops in the USA" with good reason. Their donuts are from pure Madagascar bourbon vanilla and Belgian chocolate, along with other natural ingredients. Their menu is comprised of standard, seasonal and fruit donuts, including Cherry Hibiscus, Salted Caramel and The Berry Best. The closest Donut Snob location to Palazzo Westwood Village is at 7253 Santa Monica Blvd.

Dunkin Donuts
While supplies last, Dunkin Donuts is giving patrons a free donut with the purchase of a beverage. Unfortunately, the closest Dunkin Donuts location is in Santa Monica, but if you happen to be out that way, swing by and snag your free donut!

Plan Check Kitchen & Bar
You apartment home at Palazzo Westwood Village is only 8 minutes away from the Sawtelle Blvd. location of Plan Check. For today's holiday, the eatery is offering $2 donuts. At the Sawtelle location, the featured donut is Root Beer Float, which is served with vanilla bean ice cream, root beer sprinkles, root beer froth and a cookie straw, according to Los Angeles Times.

STK
Maybe you prefer your donut towards the end of the day, and with alcohol included. For your dessert donut, served with a free glass of prosecco between 6 and 8 PM, try one of STK's boozy donuts! On the menu are the Cocoa Bomb (vanilla lemon custard and hazelnut liquor), Fruity Rebel (cereal custard and raspberry liquor) and Not Your Daddy's Donut (cherry bourbon custard and orange liquor). 

You might even prefer to undertake the task of making your own donuts! If that's the case, try these recipes from The Kitchn!

Where are some of your favorite bakeries in Westwood? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook or Twitter!

Bike Week LA

Westwood Village has been making strides to become a more bicycle-friendly community throughout the past year with the addition of new bike lanes, and this week you may have noticed an increase in bicycle traffic in Westwood. The reason behind this increase is the celebration of National Bike Week in Los Angeles County. You may have had colleagues, friends, or even yourself, who participated in Bike to Work Day today. If you did not realize that today was Bike to Work Day, don't despair. There is one final opportunity to get in on the National Bike Week festivities in Los Angeles tomorrow evening at the Bike Night at Union Station.

Metro's Bike Night at Union Station begins tomorrow at 5:30 PM and lasts until 8:30 PM. Celebrate and network with other Los Angeles-area cyclists, and take advantage of the food, music, crafts, contests and more! Music will be provided by local band The Lions, and giveaways include bike reflectors, t-shirts, patch kits and tap cards. The party will take place in the Old Ticketing Room at the station.

After the party at Union Station ends, there will be an after party at Angel City Brewery. Entry into the brewery is guaranteed with a Bike Night wristband, as long as you head over between 8:30 and 9. However, once you're in, you can enjoy specials the rest of the evening, as you socialize with fellow bike enthusiasts!

From your apartment home at Palazzo Westwood Village, it is about a 34 minute commute to Union Station, without traffic. However, if you work downtown, head over to the party after the workday is over! 

In other Metro news, more information about a new bike-sharing program is reported to be released next month! According to Los Angeles Daily News, this program will make 1,090 bikes available throughout 65 stations. The project aims to launch next spring. There are also plans to expand the number of bike hubs, which act as parking lots for bikes.

Do you regularly commute to work on your bicycle? How do you think Westwood can become more bike-friendly in the future? Share you thoughts with us on the Palazzo Westwood Village Facebook and Twitter pages! 

Additional sources consulted:
Metro
Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition

Vegan Beer & Food Festival

Vegan diets have spread across the country, but many consider California the capital of the diet. For those of you who do not consume animal products, and even for those who do, there is an exciting festival coming up to celebrate vegans - the Vegan Beer & Food Festival! 2015 will be the sixth year for this event, which offers some of the best vegan bites and brews! 

This year's festival will be held on May 16 at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena. Guests of the festival will have a selection of more than 100 beers from 50 breweries, and food from more than 40 food trucks, restaurants and vendors at their fingertips! Brewers include Ace Cider, Beach City Bell's, Dr. Jekyll's, Lagunitas, New Belgium and many, many more. Food that will be on site includes Anthem Vegan, Grilled Cheese Truck, Life is Sweet Bakeshop, The Rabbit Hole Cafe and more! To view the full list of food and beer that will be available, click here.

If the food and beer selection is not enough to convince you, there is also a stellar live music lineup. Participating artists include Jamestown Revival, The White Buffalo, The Drowning Men, Petty Cash, Joel Jerome and Lucy & La Mer! 

What are some things you should try at the event? LAist recommends Real Food Daily's "fauxnut," comparable to the cronut; Suncafe's chili fries; and Clean South's fried "chicken." To view all of their recommendations, click here. 

If you are interested in attending the event, tickets can be purchased online or the day of the event. Tickets are between $50 and $80. Please note, food is not included in the ticket price. If you are interested in buying tickets online, click here.

From Palazzo Westwood Village apartment homes to Rose Bowl Stadium, it is approximately a 45-minute drive, via the 405 and Hwy. 134 E. If you love vegan food and beer, it would make a fun day trip to take with friends!

Have you ever attended a vegan beer or food festival? What vendors do you look forward to trying at this festival? Share your thoughts on Palazzo Westwood Village's Facebook and Twitter pages!

Celebrate LACMA's 50th Anniversary

If you have never been to Los Angeles County Museum of Art (better known as LACMA), or even if you have, this weekend is your opportunity to visit this LA cultural staple for free! Take advantage of the opportunity to visit the museum's Miracle Mile campus for a day of art, culture and enjoyment!

This special event includes free admission to all of the museum's exhibits, including the new 50 for 50: Gifts on the Occasion of LACMA's Anniversary. This exhibit includes the gifts received by the museum from all over the world for its 50th anniversary. Some notable artwork that was donated to LACMA for the exhibit include Taddeo Gaddi's "Crucifixion with the Madonna and Saint John the Evangelist," Edgar Degas' "At the Cafe Concert: The Song of the Dog" and "Portrait of a Gentleman," a marble bust by Giovanni Lorenzo Bernini.

The day also includes 50 self-guided activities from various parts of the Miracle Mile campus. While you do need tickets for the 50 for 50 exhibit, tickets are still free of charge. Another aspect of the day is a concert at the Bing Theater.

If you're interested in attending, the LACMA's hours on Sunday are from 10 AM to 7 PM. Remember, as you walk through the museum, you may take pictures, but it is asked that you refrain from using flash photography. If you would like a more personalized experience, you can download the museum's app! 

LACMA is located at 5905 Wilshire Blvd. It is approximately a 25-minute from Palazzo Westwood Village apartment homes. The drive will be well worth it for the chance to see such rare works of art. 

If you have visited LACMA in the past, what are your favorite exhibits? If you have never visited the museum before, do you plan on taking advantage of this weekend's free day? Share your thoughts with us on Palazzo Westwood Village's Facebook and Twitter pages!

Sources consulted:
LACMA
LA Times
Time Out Los Angeles

Brokechella 2015

You've probably been seeing a ton of posts on social media and stories in the news about Coachella, but every year on the second weekend of the music festival, something happens a little closer to home  - Brokechella! 

Brokechella began as a community arts and culture event from cARTel, which at one point in time was held in a black box theater right here in Westwood. The festival of comedians, bands, and artists kept growing each year. When organizers realized that it kept falling on the second weekend of Coachella, they changed the name to Brokechella, as tickets were only $5! 

Brokechella 2015 takes place this Saturday, April 18, at Sante Fe Studios in downtown Los Angeles. Also known as "a music fest for the rest of us," this is the 5th year for the event. While tickets are no longer $5, it's still a very affordable event, with this year's tickets ranging between $15 and $25. Online tickets are already sold out.

Who can you look forward to seeing at one of the event's four stages? Musical acts include: OYLS, Smoke Season, Hex Cougar, Anabot, and more. Stand-up comedians performing at the festival include Even Cassidy, Kyle Shire and Myke Wright, among others. To view the full line-up of performers, click here.

You can even bring your pooch along to certain areas of the festival. Yes, that's right, Puppychella is an event! Please note, there are rules and regulations to bringing along Fido to Puppychella, including registering them with the festival. For full rules, click here.

Are you interested in volunteering at the event? People are needed to assist with set-up, event execution and clean-up throughout the weekend. If you are able to donate your time, you can sign up through the Volunteer Form.

The festival is easily accessible from Palazzo Westwood Village apartment homes by taking I-10 for about 15 miles.

Will you be among the crowd at Coachella or Brokechella this weekend? Either way, both are a great way to check out live music!

Sources consulted:
Time Out Los Angeles
Brokechella

5 Can’t-Miss Upcoming Events

The upcoming weeks are filled with exciting things to do around LA. For UCLA students who need a study break or if you just need to get out of the house, all of these events, ranging from celebrity appearances to yummy food and musical performances, will entice you. There is something here for everyone happening in Los Angeles in the next few weeks. All of these events and festivals are within 30 minutes drive of the Palazzo Westwood Village apartment homes.

Kinfolks Soulfood Festival

The Kinfolks Soul Food Festival has has only grown since its inception in 2007. Bobby Brown, Salt and Pepa, Stephanie Mills and El Debarge will be making appearances at the festival. This year they will be holding competitions for the best soul food recipes, as well as appearances by award winning chefs, Chef Auntie Fee, Chef Robert Roberts and Chef Amadeus. Don’t miss out on this mouthwatering experience! April 11th at Exposition Park.

Mental Head Circus

Take in the modern-day Vaudeville circus show from small tables while contortionists twist themselves and aerialists perform feats so amazing that you won’t believe your own eyes. April 11th and 12th at King King in Hollywood.

Great Horror Campout Movie Night

If you didn’t have the opportunity to see this horror classic when it was in theaters, now is your chance! This screening of the Exorcist under the stars will include, prizes and giveaways, monsters, photo opportunities and merchandise available for purchase. Don’t miss out on the chance to see this classic horror flick at an old, abandoned zoo. This movie may not be suitable for children. Friday April 17th at Griffith Park Old Zoo.

Brokechella

For the 5th anniversary of Brokechella, they aren’t skimping out on the fun. With 4 stages worth of musical performances plus a comedy stage, giant Jenga, art galleries and ‘puppychella’, this is not something you want to miss. If you’re too broke for that other music festival, this is most certainly the place for you. Saturday April 18 at 590 Santa Fe Avenue.

LA Times Festival of Books

Bibliophiles rejoice! The Festival of Books has returned this year and is bigger than ever. Appearances from Billy Idol, Keegan Allen, Kate Mulgrew and musical performances by The Trojan Men, Trio Ellas and Ren Martinez. And stick around after hours for some extra events that you won’t want to miss! April 18th and 19th on the University of Southern California’s campus.

Get Melt: Celebrate Grilled Cheese Month in LA

Did you know that April is National Grilled Cheese Month? As if you needed yet another excuse to indulge in one of America's favorite nostalgia foods, you're certainly in the right city to celebrate the occasion. 

Whether grilled cheese sandwiches bring you back to your childhood or you need an excuse to check out that restaurant you've been pining to try, we thought we'd share some of the top grilled cheese spots with our residents. In fact, CBS - Los Angeles compiled a great list of some of the best grilled cheese sandwiches in the area, which we thought we'd pass along:

Food+Lab
7253 Santa Monica Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90046
(323) 851-7120
www.foodlab-la.com

Known for their three-cheese blend, Food+Lab in West Hollywood features a grilled cheese sandwich with raclette, tallegio and case gruyere.

The Melt
Various Locations
themelt.com

With two locations in LA, The Melt is perhaps the best known grilled cheese chain in the area. You can even use their website to order online. Their expansive menu features breakfast options, kids' selections, and its signature sandwich: Pepper jack and jalapeño cheeses on sourdough bread. 

Grilled Cheese Truck
(323) 522-3418
www.thegrilledcheesetruck.com

If you're looking for a down and dirty grilled cheese experience, follow mobile food truck, the Grilled Cheese Truck. However, you'll have to keep tabs on their whereabouts on social media if you want to find them! Their menu features simple grilled cheeses or more adventures combinations like the Buffalo Chicken Melt and the Cheesy Mac and Rib. And of course, don't forget your side of tater tots!

Of course, you don't necessarily need to leave your great apartment in Westwood in order to celebrate grilled cheese month. Here's a recipe for a bleu cheese and pear sandwich that our staff found -- it sounded so good, we couldn't help but share it.

From the LA Times: 

Grilled Blue Cheese and Pear Sandwich:

Love blue cheese? For a slight twist on the comforting classic, put crumbled blue cheese between slices of raisin brioche, along with thinly sliced pear. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is soft and oozing, 3 to 4 minutes on each side. If you have enough self-restraint to keep from eating the sandwich over the stove (I totally understand if you don't), plate your creation, drizzled with a little chestnut honey. Grilled cheese never looked so good.

Could you think of a better way to put your gourmet kitchen to good use?

Exploring LA's Farmer's Markets

Even though it it warm here in Los Angeles year-round, now that spring is officially here, we are looking forward to exploring more of the city's fresh farmer's markets. If you have never visited a farmer's market in LA or usually go to the same one, try out some of these other markets if you have the chance. All of these farmer's markets, courtesy of Discover Los Angeles, offer a fresh fruit and veggie variety!

THE ORIGINAL FARMERS MARKET
If you only have time to visit one farmers market, this one should be it. With more than 100 restaurants, shops and food vendors, this Los Angeles institution has been offering fresh produce, specialty foods and authentic ethnic cuisine to Los Angeles visitors and locals for nearly 80 years.  Check out their interactive directory to plan your shopping list.

Third and Fairfax, www.farmersmarketla.com, Mon.–Fri.: 9 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat.: 9 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sun.: 10 a.m.– 7 p.m.

LARCHMONT FARMERS MARKET
What this quaint market lacks in size, it makes up for in quality. Fill your basket with ripe, juicy tomatoes; generous bundles of sweet basil; flavored olive oils; and fragrant, hand-poured soy candles.

209 N. Larchmont Blvd., Lot #694, Sun.: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

HOLLYWOOD FARMERS MARKET
Before heading to the Walk of Fame, experience Hollywood like a local by walking through its vibrant farmers market. Whether you’re stocking up on groceries or filling up on pre-prepared foods, this centrally located gathering has everything a hungry shopper could crave. Tip back freshly shucked oysters on the half shell, nibble on grilled sweet corn on the cob, and sip mouthwatering watermelon lemonade while meandering through the aisles of produce and meat stands.

Ivar and Selma Ave., between Hollywood and Sunset Blvd., Sundays: 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

SANTA MONICA FARMERS MARKETSHead to Santa Monica, where three days a week various farmers markets tout entertainment for the whole family, including a petting zoo, pony rides, live music and plenty of hot food stands. Take advantage of the free parking or free bike valet, and get ready for an afternoon of entertainment, picnicking and shopping near the ocean. Watch for special events like cooking demonstrations, "ask the dietician" sessions and appearances by local chefs.

City of Santa Monica Farmers Markets, Arizona Ave. & Fourth St., Wed.: 8:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.; 2200 Virginia Ave., Sat.: 8 a.m.–1 p.m.; 2640 Main St., Sun.: 9:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

BRENTWOOD VILLAGE FARMERS MARKETSure, this weekend gathering has all the hallmarks of other neighborhood farmers markets, but it also boasts an impressive selection of handmade jewelry. While you’re deciding on something sparkly to buy, munch on a treat from the Great Harvest Bread Company, or opt for a pork and cheese-filled pupusa from a mom-and-pop stand.

741 S. Gretna Green Way, Sun.: 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

VENICE FARMERS MARKETThe Friday market in Venice is on the small side, but the vendors here are known for being super friendly. Don't be surprised if you end up hearing all about the potato grower's special blend of soil or if you snag a from-memory recipe for grilled zucchini salad. The market comes with a dose of Venice's famous bohemian vibe — everything is compostable or recyclable, there's plenty of bicycle parking and it's not too hard to find a shot of wheatgrass.

Venice Blvd. & Venice Way, www.venicefarmersmarket.com, Fri.: 7 a.m.–11 a.m.

CENTURY CITY FARMERS MARKET
For a mid-week jaunt through an open-air market, head over to this outdoor event, where shoppers line up for Hawaiian barbecue chicken, made-to-order empanadas and a variety of flavored hummus and pitas.

1800 Avenue of the Stars, Thurs.: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

ECHO PARK FARMERS MARKET
This mellow market might skimp on the crafts and jewelry booths, but it has plenty of fresh produce to make up for it. Stock up on groceries for the weekend, such as flavorful heirloom tomatoes, Japanese cucumbers, massive avocados, free-range poultry and herbed goat cheese.

1125 Logan St., Fri.: 3 p.m.–7 p.m.

BEVERLY HILLS FARMERS MARKET
This mid-size market boasts easy parking, live music, a petting zoo, and plenty of ready-to-eat staples like kettle corn, made-to-order crepes, tamales and burritos. Before leaving, try the ruby-red strawberries at Harry’s Berries and the artisanal pretzels rolls from Rockenwagner Bakery.

9300 Block of Civic Center Dr., Beverly Hills, Sun.: 9 a.m.–1 p.m., http://www.beverlyhills.org/exploring/farmersmarket/

STUDIO CITY FARMERS MARKET
This Sunday market is a favorite among the toddler set — it offers pony rides, a petting zoo, a train ride and a bouncy slide, in addition to plenty of locally farmed produce. Epicureans won't be disappointed, either. Vendors sell homemade sauces, pastries and preserves, and one will even sharpen your favorite kitchen knives.

Ventura Place between Laurel Canyon Blvd. and Radford Ave., Studio City, Sun.: 8 a.m.–2 p.m.,www.studiocityfarmersmarket.com

ENCINO FARMERS MARKET
During peak summer months, dozens of regional growers converge at this farmers market in the Valley, where you'll find everything from locally made honey to local eggs, meat and cheese. Oh, and endless piles of colorful, fragrant fruits and vegetables.

17400 Victory Blvd, Encino, Sun.: 8 a.m.–1 p.m., www.localharvest.org

DOWNTOWN LA FARMERS MARKETBecause this market features just as much delicious, ready-to-eat street food as it does produce, it's a favorite among Downtown workers, who fill up for lunch on Thai barbecue chicken, falafal wraps, roasted nuts and authentic tamales, and then take home local veggies and artisan bread for dinner.

Bank of America Plaza, 333 S. Hope St., Fri.: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Can't Miss Spring Events in LA

As of today, spring is officially here! While we get to enjoy milder weather year round, this may not be that big of a deal, but there is still a lot to look forward to - from UCLA commencement to plenty of area events! If you're not staying in to watch the #MarchMadness this weekend, make some plans to attend these must-attend spring events, courtesy of Thrillist: 

MARCH 22
LACMA
Nowruz Festival
This free (FREE!) Persian New Year fest will have great food & an outdoor concert from a "groundbreaking Iranian rock band." Also, not sure if we mentioned this but... FREE!!!!!!

MARCH 25
Colony Palms
Micah Wexler @ Colony Palms
The crazy-lauded chef behind Wexler's Deli is popping up at one of Palm Springs' best hotels for a gin-paired dinner. Epic road trip, anyone?

MAR 28-29
Santa Anita
Ramen Championship
Noodlers from all over the place have a competition. No matter what, you win.

MARCH 29
5919 Franklin Ave.
UCB Search History
People combing through your search history? Total nightmare. The Upright Citizens Brigade basing an improv show off of strangers’ search histories? A damn funny Sunday, plus a rotating A-list cast member or two.

APRIL 1
Ace Hotel
The Music of David Lynch
Your favorite ultra-weirdo collabs with other weirdos like The Flaming Lips on a one-off performance of music from his movies/TV (including the Twin Peaks theme song, the Angelo Badalamenti score to Blue Velvet, andMulholland Drive's "Llorando").

APRIL 4
LA Center Studios
LA Beerfest
Unlimited pours. $40. You need no more info than this.

APRIL 6
Dodgers Stadium
Dodgers opening day
You're my boys, Blue!

APR 11-13
Empire Polo Field
Coachella Weekend 1
At this point, you're either going, or you're pissed you're not.

APRIL 18
Santa Fe Studios
Brokechella
50 bands, $15.

Park Plaza
LA Cocktail Classic
AYCD hooch from some classy cocktailers, for $65. Yup.

MAY 2
Literally everywhere
Pacquiao vs. Mayweather
You're watching this, somewhere -- a friend's house, a bar, a betting hall. You're watching this.

MAY 16
4900 Alhambra Ave.
Derby Dolls' first bout in their new venue
LA's premiere ladies on skates found a new spot. Help them devirginize it.

MAY 22-24
All over Las Vegas
Punk Rock Bowling & Music Festival
Rancid. Bosstones. Bowling. Vegas. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.

MAY 23
Regent Theater
Bootie Prom
The annual dress-up-and-dance-to-mash-ups-and-be-super-fun event returns.

JUNE 6-7
The Reef LA
CatCon
"It's like ComicCon -- for cat people." Seriously! That's how they describe it!

JUN 12-14
Ink N Iron
Queen Mary
"It's like ComicCon! For tattooed people!" Seriously. That's how we describe it.

JUNE 20
Hollywood Bowl
Opening Night at the Hollywood Bowl
Journey is playing with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. And fireworks. Yep. Happening.

JUN 20-28
All over the city
LA Beer Week
It's June instead of September this year. Mark your calendars.