A few weeks ago after having tea with Cambrey Thomas, The Editor of “Detroit Girls About Town” she asked me to write an article about my guide/favorite things in Los Angeles. I was nothing short of delighted to participate. Here is the Article. -THE WIFE
DGAT had a lot of fun in Los Angeles last month, so much fun that our name almost became L. A. Girls About Town. While there, we lounged on the beach, ate at hip food trucks, and spotted David Hasselhof at The Apple Pan. We even stumbled upon a charming website called Taryn Cox The Wife. The site, run by native California girl Taryn Cox, is a guide to life as a wife. Although we’re betrothed to no one as of yet, DGAT likes her clear, practical, and decidedly stylish take on the world. In fact, we could not return to Detroit without asking Miss Taryn for her top 15 must do’s in L.A for Detroit girls. So, Detroit girls, read on. And be forewarned, this may inspire lust for a weekend jaunt to the city of Angels. – Detroit Girls About Town
1. Umami Burger 850 South La Brea Los Angeles, California 323 931 3000Since being introduced to Umami Burger, it has turned into a weekly craving/obsession. What sets Umami Burger apart from the others is that they don’t grind the meat until you order it. Umami means flavor and taste in Japanese…. They certainly have accomplished both with the tastiest burger in Los Angeles. My favorite is the Truffle Burger with sweet potato fries.. Make sure to indulge in a Raspberry Monkey Cake for dessert!
2. Hucklebrry 1014 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica, California 310 451 2311Huckleberry, although on the Westside has been proven to be worth the distance for their delicious brunches and pastries that will transcend you straight to heaven! Don’t let the title fool you, but be sure to order the green eggs and ham for breakfast AND take a goodie bag full of sweet treats home for later. You definitely will not regret being over loaded with carbs and sugar.
3. Chateau Marmont 8221 Sunset Blvd Los Angeles, California 323 656 1010Ever since taking residence at this infamous hotel for six months, it has become my favorite recommendation for anyone visiting. The rooms are like mini apartments, most equipped with kitchens and living rooms so you’ll feel right at home. And the pool is perfect for lazy Sundays. Sit in the courtyard on any balmy California evening, its enchanting to enjoy dinner or drinks with friends under the warm nights sky.
4. Palihouse 8465 Hollaway Drive West Hollywood, California 323 656 4100The hotel is perfect for extended stays in Los Angeles. Even if your not staying here, it’s the perfect place to meet up with friends for cocktails in their charming lobby. Cozy sofas and a toasty fireplace make up the ambiance ( similar to Mercer Hotel lobby). Their restaurant, The Hall, is lovely for enjoying dinner under twinkling lights in the courtyard.
5. O! Burger 8593 Santa Monica Blvd West Hollywood, California 310 854 0134Not only does O! Burger have delicious burgers and fries, but what make me even more excited to eat there is that the whole restaurant is eco- friendly. Everything in the restaurant is made from renewable resources that are recyclable, compostable or bio degradable. All the ingredients are 100% certified organic! Even all the ice tea and sugar they use are all fair trade products. Good food and responsibility for the environment!
6. Joan’s on Third 8350 West 3rd Street Los Angeles, California 323 655 2285Joan’s on Third has become my go to place for coffee, tea and breakfast with friends. I call it the Los Angeles version of Dean and Deluca, with counters filled with delicious food to eat in or carry out -Sweet treats like morning buns (my personal favorite) and homemade cupcakes. It is the most “at home” place with a most welcoming staff. This is the perfect recipe to get lost in a conversation with your best friend.
7. Cecconi’s 8764 Melrose Avenue West Hollywood, California 310 432 2000Although on the pricier range of restaurants, Cecconi’s is definitely worthy of splurging on a glamorous dinner out. Get all dolled up and toast your friends with champagne while dinning out on the inviting patio. Indulge on hearty portions of Southern Italian pasta and pizzas.
8. Mozza 6602 Melrose Avenue Los Angeles, California 323 297 0100This is a do not skip restaurant in Los Angeles. Whether you dine at Pizzeria Mozza or Osteria Mozza, either will be an enjoyable feast. Call ahead as reservations book up fast. If you still do not have luck scoring a table, the bar at both restaurants is designed for walk in guests.
9. Comma Ca 8479 Melrose Avenue West Hollywood, California 323 782 1104One of my favorite french inspired restaurants in Los Angeles. The ambiance is very modern Parisian chic. A Must Order dish is the braised short ribs with pommes aligot.
10. Soho House West Hollywood 9200 Sunset Blvd West Hollywood, California 310 432 9200If you or a friend happens to have a membership, Soho House is a must for sunset dinner or drinks. With the most spectacular 360 view of Los Angeles, you’lll get lost in the twinkling lights of the city while sipping on tasty cocktails.
11. La Brea Bakery 624 South La Brea Avenue Los Angeles, California 323 939 8613If you find yourself in Los Angeles and in a rush, La brea Bakery is fantastic for a quick sandwich and chips on the go.
12. Bottega Louie 700 South Grand Avenue Los Angeles, California 213 802 1470Although located Downtown, Bottega Louie is worth the drive. The ambiance has a new york feel, with high ceilings and gorgeous male waiters serving as eye candy through out the evening. The down side is Bottega Louie does nott take reservations, but be sure to shop their market in front of the restaurant while waiting for a table. I always find great gourmet products like fig jam, macaroons and fresh flowers.
13. Milk Cafe 7290 Beverly Blvd Los Angeles, California 323 939 6455My favorite place for sweet treats like cookies, coffee and ice cream. Executive pastry chef Dave Baker has a creative knack for dreaming up unique ice cream flavors like Irish breakfast ice cream and red velvet cake batter ice cream. Also Be sure to try an Iced Chai latte, they make the chai syrup from scratch.
14. Larchmont Bungalow 107 North Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, California 323 461 1528Larchmont Bungalow is located on the charming street of Larchmont (be sure to go on Sunday’s to walk around the Farmer’s Market) Larchmont Bungalow has prided its self on their creativity for meals. Order the red velvet pancakes or tequila french toast! You cant go wrong with anything you order, even the classics are delicious!
15. The Grove/Farmers Market 189 The Grove Drive Los Angeles, California 323 900 8080On any given sunny day be sure to check out The Grove. You’ll feel like your in the happiest place on earth, as its very reminiscent of Main Street in Disneyland. Charming for catching afternoon movies or shopping at stores like J Crew or Barney’s Co-op. Be sure to Wonder over to the farmers market for your choice of any food genre under the sun. My favorite are donuts from Bob’s Coffee and Doughnuts.
Article by Taryn Cox for Detroit Girls About Town www.Girlsaboutdtown.Wordpress.Com