Where to Eat Wednesdays: Lulu's in Palm Springs

Do you like ceviche?

Oh my gosh. I am not typically a ceviche fan, but just thinking about this ceviche I had a few weeks ago is making my mouth water. If you're an LA local, you'll have to drive a few hours east out to the desert to try this dish (but why is there good seafood in the desert? I have no idea).

If you know me, you know that atmosphere is very important when going out to eat, and you can't go wrong with Lulu's in Palm Springs- the service was friendly, as was the patio dining, misters, people, and their dogs (who are welcome to dine on the patio!).

Considering the prices at this place aren't that affordable, I thought this appetizer was a steal for $6 (look at the amount!). My mom and I ate lots and had a considerable amount left over.

Enjoy!

Where to Eat Wednesdays: Curious Palate

On Memorial Day, Zac and I went to The Curious Palate for breakfast. This is a great little place on Venice Boulevard in Mar Vista. I recommend it if you like fresh ingredients, amazing coffee, and a neighborhood atmosphere.

I've been here a number of times, but my order last weekend was my favorite so far. I got the Brooklyn special: a breakfast sandwich with salmon, egg, and cream cheese on sourdough.

What do you think? Will you try it out?

(PS- this was NOT on the diet I mentioned during last week's post!)

Where To Eat Wednesday: Al Gelato

So I started a diet with Zac last week. Let's just say it hasn't been the greatest week in the world. But I'm seeing results already, so I'm encouraged to continue. Don't worry, the diet won't stop me from posting about amazing food finds in LA, and it won't stop me from being the devoted foodie that I am. So today I recommend that you check out Al Gelato if you're in the mood for some legitimate pasta.


Al Gelato was recommended to me by a friend a few months ago, so Zac and I went there for a date. It's a small, unassuming restaurant on Robertson in Beverly Hills, and I was surprised by the casual but charming ambiance. The establishment's name kind of gives away what they're known for, but the Italian ice cream wasn't what stood out to me. What I remember is the LINGUINE.

At first, I was a little disappointed when reading the menu and seeing that the pasta, although made in house, was served plain, aside from the basil that it's cooked in and the giant meatball that you can order as a side dish. I also thought the price seemed really high for pasta. But oh no. This handmade linguine is to die for, and the price was worth it given that I had about four servings of leftovers! Zac ordered a pizza, and devoured that faster than I devoured mine. So needless to say, if you're a pasta (and gelato) fan AND you're not on a carb-cycling diet like me right now, hurry on over to Al Gelato when you can!

Where to DRINK Wednesdays: Moon Juice

Recently, I've mentioned my love for natural juice mixes and the amazing energy and satisfaction they bring. So I've been meaning to check out Moon Juice in Venice- a new healthy, hippie, totally Southern California spot. Plus, it's just a short walk from my work, so in the coming weeks my team is planning on taking a healthy field trip!

I think the Beet Aid might be my go-to, but I'd also love to try the Carrot, Lime, and Coconut or the Cantaloupe Nectarine. Which would you try?

Also, would you or have you ever done a cleanse? Moon Juice offers a Rainbow or Green cleanse. I don't think I could do it- but I think you're hardcore if you do!

Where to Eat Wednesday: Lemonade

I've got a great suggestion for you today. As the name implies, Lemonade has a wonderful assortment of flavored lemonades, that I certainly suggest. But I like to go there for the "Southern Californian Soul Food" as the website describes it. Look forward to fresh, healthy mixtures such as their seasonal mission fig, arugula, blue cheese and sherry shallot or heirloom tomato, basil and fleur de sel. You can choose a few options to make a plate, so lunch ends up being an assortment of flavorful mixes. If you can't picture it, here's a little help:

If you're in the mood for something a little more hearty while you're there, Zac likes the braised beef. They've got great baked goods also, so you really can't go wrong!

If you're in the West L.A. area, I go to the one on Abbot Kinney in Venice- but it looks like new locations are popping up in places like Manhattan Beach and even LAX. I hope you can check it out!

Where to eat Wednesdays: Farmers Markets

When was the last time you went to a Farmers Market?

I've recently gone with my friend, Sasha, on our weekly walks with our babies. I really like the one in Culver City. It's every Tuesday from 3pm-7pm on Main St. It's a great way to sample seasonal fruits and goodies. Yesterday, I bought avocado hummus, persimmons, and sweet grapefruits (I didn't even know those existed!). Anyway, it's fun and I recommend the busy outdoor market to anyone- even if you work, hopefully you can make it before 7!

(photo via One More Moore)

Where to Eat Wednesday: Boiling Crab

(Ok, I know it's Thursday- but apparently I just didn't know yesterday was Wednesday...)

Have you ever heard of The Boiling Crab?

A few weeks ago, Zac and I went here with our dear friends Kim and Esteban who had recommended it. The seafood (crab, of course, and other crustaceans) was amazing, and it was also fun to eat!

All and all, I'd recommend checking this place out if you like flavorful seafood. They serve it in a bag soaked in the spices of your choice, you wear a bib, and eat with your hands. Sounds fun, right?

Where to Eat Wednesday: Joans on Third

Pancakes. Such a universal Saturday morning indulgence, that makes it that much more difficult to pick a place to recommend for the sugary treat. I was never very enthusiastic about pancakes, but then I got pregnant. And my love for them has not faded with giving birth... so, luckily I've got just the place for you.

Joan's on Third is one of my favorites. Perhaps a locale you would not think to order pancakes from, considering they specialize in serving numerous freshly baked goods, and have options on their breakfast menu like a New York style sandwich, and healthy options like oatmeal and parfaits. However, their pancakes are to DIE for! I usually order them to share with someone since I don't like just pancakes for breakfast, so it allows me to order eggs too. :)

Fluffy, and with real Vermont maple syrup, these pancakes are a must. So, let me know if you ever get the chance to try them out and see for yourself!

Where to Eat Wednesday: Donuts

What better feature on Halloween, than on something sweet. Last week, my friend and I tried out Primo's, a recommended donut shop on the west side. Understated and family owned, the service was great and the product fresh.

We went to try the buttermilk donut, but I do have to say it wasn't exactly what I expected. But it was good, and buttermilk-y! I'd recommend it if you're ever in the area (near the corner of Sawtelle and National).

Happy Halloween!

Where to Eat Wednesday: Samosa House

Do you like Indian food? Well if you do, try out Samosa House. It's a great little place that's even been featured on Food Network's "Best Thing I Ever Ate". You order standing up, so it's really good for a no frills, fast option.

There are two locations- if you're looking to do some grocery shopping for authentic Indian food and spices, I'd recommend the original on Washington just west of Sawtelle. But otherwise, go to Samosa House East on Overland and Washington Blvd for better atmosphere.

Attractive to veggie lovers and otherwise- everything at Samosa House is vegetarian. I definitely recommend the jackfruit. Also, if you're looking to go into labor, I'd recommend this place, as it was the last thing I had before contractions started!

Where to Eat Wednesday: Sushi Central

Last week, Zac and I went to one of our favorite places that I don't believe I've had the pleasure of telling you about yet: Sushi Central.

Zac happened to stumble upon this place years ago while walking to a friend's house and wanting to grab a bite first. He later discovered it's one of those places where you go and can BYOB (just remember to bring one for the owner too:) Phil and Talli are the husband and wife team who run the joint. And they, along with their amazingly high quality and delicious sushi, are the reason we keep going back.

Phil is this funny Japanese dude who talks kinda like a surfer, and knows his fish. His wife is a very sweet and lovely Israeli woman who oddly enough knows her sushi as well. And together, they make an awesome team!

The other night, Zac and I went because we really just needed some time together, to talk. We hadn't gone out just the two of us in a while, and I think we were starting to feel it, and our bickering was not cool with me. Then, low and behold, just when we needed it most, Phil, stopped by our table and imparted some much needed wisdom on us. I guess it's a long story, but he basically told us exactly what we needed to hear. Something along the lines of "don't worry, be happy".. I loved the simple advice.

Has that ever happened to you? Someone unexpected just tell you the wisest thing? Or the simplest thing that put all the big things in perspective? It's so nice when that happens. Zac and I haven't fought at all since that night. Thanks, Phil.

(PS, Phil was also on Throw Down with Bobby Flay on FOOD Network. Phil won, of course. So if you like good sushi, check out their place when you get a chance, they're on Overland and Palms- closed on Sundays).

Where to Eat Wednesday: Akasha

The other night, to say thanks for helping us paint, and to celebrate being done with the almost 3 coats of primer we used to cover up our DARK paint in the soon to be babies room, Zac took me and my girlfriends out to dinner. We weren't planning on going to Akasha, but it was a delightful and fancy alternative to our previously planned dinner spot. They serve a nice mix of yummy comfort foods like mac n' cheese as well as healthy and delicious options like specially prepared green beans and kale salad.

And the food was so good! We ended up ordering a little too much because we thought their "small plates" would be small, but they weren't! Not only is it a fancy place, but their serving sizes are reasonable, and everything was delicious.

Zac's favorite was the tandori chicken wings, and I really liked my beet salad, and of course, the Salty Chocolate Peanut Bar dessert! Glorious.

Have you ever been here? If not, I recommend trying it out, it's located in downtown Culver City, which is a fun area to hang out in anyway. We like it because it's so close to our apartment. They also serve Intelligentsia coffee, which if you're a coffee person, I highly recommend. Plus, the ambiance is great!

(P.S. They make affagato too! You've really gotta try it now!)

Where to Eat Wednesday???

Today, I thought I'd ask YOU where to eat. Last night, my mom and I ordered Thai food from a place I had never tried, Swanya Thai, and let me tell you, I won't be ordering from them again. It wasn't that bad, but definitely nothing to write home (or a blog) about.

So here's the thing, I judge Thai places based off of my favorite dish, Mee Krob (pictured above). The problem is that not all Thai places even serve Mee Krob. It's usually on the appetizer section, and basically it's a crispy, sweet noodle, usually with yummy things like pork, chicken, shrimp and/or tofu in it. Have you ever tried it?

I remember hearing once that L.A. has the largest ratio of Thai food restaurants in any metropolitan area, so I'm thinking there are LOTS of places that I am missing out on. So please, let me know if you have any suggestions for Where to Eat this Wednesday!

(photo from EZ Thai Cooking)

Where to Eat Wednesdays: Bottega Louie

So as promised, I tried somewhere new and exciting for dinner on my birthday, Bottega Louie, in downtown LA. I had heard a lot of good things about this place, and since I'm always keen on Italian food when I get to pick the place (because Zac NEVER wants to go out for Italian), I thought this was the perfect choice.

Bottega Louie is kind of known for their dessert bar/ bakery, and particularly their "macarons" (double "o" intentionially left out, Italian thing? not sure). And as you can see below, they come in many flavors and are delicious if you're into macarons.

I might have the biggest sweet tooth known to man, so I was particularly smitten by their butterscotch dessert that was ridiculously good, with just the right amount of salt to give that balance of decadence.

Overall, the place was a lot of fun. We did have to wait (over an hour!) for our table, but they don't take reservations, and we had a large party, so I wasn't too surprised. BUT, we got to hang out by their fun bar and mingle which really is all I wanted to do anyway. The ambiance was nice, and the restaurant is in a beautiful old building downtown which made the high ceilings and big windows that much more impressive. It was noisy, but who cares? We were there to talk anyway!

So cheers to birthdays! This one was pretty awesome.

Where to Eat Wednesday: Fritto Misto

This week, let's go for some Italian with a fun little spot in Santa Monica called Fritto Misto. It seems like everyone who lives in Santa Monica already knows about this place, but in case you're new, or like me, and never heard of it, but have only driven passed it- check it out!

Fritto Misto means "fried mix" in Italian, I think. And although we didn't order their signature appetizer, it sounds delicious, as it's just a mix of fried goodies like calamari and such.

The restaurant is casual and affordably priced, which is a big plus. They don't have a website, but you can check out their yelp reviews here.

Overall, the food is really enjoyable. Everyone in my party really liked what they ordered, and even their bread was noteworthy. It's always disappointing to go to an Italian place with less than impressive bread, isn't it? That's usually my favorite part! Another plus is that you can bring your own wine, with a service charge of $2 per person.. not bad!
Enjoy!

(tip: go early or on a weeknight to avoid long waits on the weekend)

Where to eat Wednesday: Waterloo and City

Do you have a favorite restaurant?

Today I thought I'd share one of my favorite places with you. I think "favorite" for me depends on what genre, but this one is the go-to for a good drink and fancy food in a chic and almost rustic environment in Culver City, called Waterloo and City. They converted this restaurant a few years ago from an old diner or something similar, and we went last year for my birthday dinner, it was DELISH.

I'd recommend going here for a splurge, and trying one of their charcuterie plates. I'd never tried that before, and everything was so delectable. And don't worry, if you don't really know what charcuterie is, I didn't know either. Just go and try it out, call it an adventure!

Who said British food is bland? This place is giving that old stereotype a run for its money! Hope you get the chance to try it out!