Tipple & Brine in Sherman Oaks, CA

T-shirt by Chaser. Shorts by Levi. Belt by Hardware. Bag by Aldo. Bracelet by Armani. Shoes are vintage. 

In high school, I had a friend who lived in Sherman Oaks. He threw the best parties because there really wasn't much else to do around the area. When his parents weren't home, we would reluctantly relocate to the Bowling Alley next to Jerry's Famous Deli (o the good ol' days). As I grew older and moved away to college, I returned to a completely different world. Sherman Oaks was actually hip! 

It is no secret, for the past few years several areas of LA have been developing rapidly into trendsetting areas which offer great restaurants and shopping. Sherman Oaks is one of them!

Over the past weekend, I visited Tipple & Brine, a new seafood joint in the Sherman Oaks area. Though the farmhouse chic decor has been done five ways from Sunday, I can't fault them for trying to hold in with the pack. The atmosphere was lively and the food fresh! Though a little daring, it was perfect for my palate. My motto is try everything once! I like how many dishes involved seafood into American favorites such as sea urchin toast, and seared calamari salad. Of course they also have your typical market fish and oysters; several options are non seafood, and include delicious entrees, salads, and sides. I tried the oysters, brussels sprouts, and sea urchin toast. Everything was scrumptious! 

The service was not perfect, but luckily we were too busy enjoying ourselves to care. If you come, request to sit by the window, and enjoy your meal while you people watch. Apparently there is life over the canyon! 

Cafe Roma in Beverly Hills

T-shirt by Disney. Skirt by Highway. Shoes by Iro. Bag by KC Jagger. Ring by Guess. 

Although today is officially the beginning of October, if you reside in Los Angeles you would argue that it still feels very much like summer. Granted we don't have much of the season weather many other regions are accustomed to, I love that slight shift in the weather where you can feel the climate actually changing. It cools down a little in the evenings, and you can finally enjoy dining outside without sticking to your seat. 

One of my favorite places to enjoy the scenery as much as the food is Cafe Roma in Beverly Hills. Located on Canon Dr., this little cafe features delicious Italian food and award-winning cocktails. I'm not kidding about the "award-winning" part either, one of their cocktails actually placed first in a Tuscany contest (and those Italians know their food and drinks)! On weekend nights, they also have a DJ playing top hits to liven up their happy hour scene. Be aware the clientele is slightly more mature--many divorcee and silver fox types. 

Either way this eatery is upscale yet the atmosphere is relaxed and not too pretentious. Ask to be seated on the patio (they have a separate outdoor space for quick bites and dinner) and bask in the glory of this amazing weather. Order the "The Best" if you like gin, and breathe in that Beverly Hills air (surprisingly it's free). Don't forget to take a walk down Canon Dr. or the famous Rodeo Dr. a block away-- glimmering lights, beautiful people, it's called Tinseltown for a reason! 

Fork Restaurant on Sunset Blvd.

Top by Laila and Savannah. Skirt by Miss Me. Shoes by Jeffrey Campbell. Bag by KC Jagger. 

I am a huge fan of Mediterranean food, but unfortunately it is not a very popular cuisine on the LA scene. Most people actually shy away from the the flavors and exoticism of these dishes. Thankfully I now have a solution for these deprived souls and it's called "Fork" on Sunset Blvd., a new and tiny gem of a restaurant combining American and Mediterranean food. Fun fact-- it is owned by Roy Handler (celebrity chef and Chelsea Handler's brother). 

This new and unique eatery offers indoor rustic chic decor, as well as outdoor diner ambiance. The set up seems to be a little confusing at first, but I like the idea of being able to sit outside while ordering from the indoor bar (indoor seating is also available).  It is intimate enough for a date spot, yet open until 4AM for those late night munchies after the bars and clubs. Now on to the most important part-- the food! Le Grand Formage, Mediterranean Tacos, Baklava Cheesecake, I kid you not that my mouth is watering as I am writing this. I can also concur the dishes are as delicious as they sound! Stick a fork in that and nix the kale (for now)! 

Visiting Sawtelle Blvd. in West Los Angeles

Pantsuit by Mind Code. Shoes by Aldo. Bag by Hardware. Necklace by Melinda Maria. Watch by Guess. 

Most people are familiar with Chinatown and Koreatown in Los Angeles, but very few are aware that down Olympic Blvd is a little known secret called Sawtelle Blvd. bringing together a mecca of Japanese culture and inspiration. Growing up in Los Angeles I was lucky enough to witness the growth of this area from just a few cafes and stores to a multitude of of trendy eateries, grocery stores, and boutiques, just to name a few. Bear in mind this strip only extends from Santa Monica Blvd. to Olympic Blvd. meaning (for the non LA locals) it's only about 6 blocks or so. Condensed, however, doesn't indicate overcrowded and overwhelming (although parking can be rough). It still remains a bit of a hidden gem which many LA natives keep to themselves. 

Although offering mainly Japanese cuisine, a few of the restaurants do have Korean and Chinese food influences. The shopping here is also rather unique. Many of the store carry very cultural (yet contemporary) and one of a kind items, which you will probably never need but can't help yourself to buy! One of my favorite stores is "Tokyo Japanese Outlet" which has an enormous supply of various knick knacks and trinkets. They also have fabulous skin care masks and products. It's no secret the Japanese have amazing skin! Make sure to also check out the "$1.50" store across the street, the Japanese version of the "Dollar Store." While you're on your shopping high, pop in to "Beard Papa" for a cream puff to get a sugar high. Although the typical Japenese dessert is shaved ice, don't worry, that's only a block away! You can possibly spend hours exploring, and the irony is it's only one street! 

Exploring Larchmont Village in Silverlake, Los Angeles

Top by Converse. Leather Skirt by Sanctuary. Boots by Not Rated. Bag by KC Jagger. Belt by Hardware. 

Although I love Los Angeles and all it has to offer, I also appreciate areas of the city which make you think you are no longer in LA. The irony is beyond my grasp of understanding! The funny thing is there are many places which make you forget you are in one of the biggest cities in the world. Larchmont Village is one of them!

This little area in the heart of Silvelake is so cozy and dainty, it feels like you were teleported to some small town in Vermont (I also want to make it a point that I have never visited Vermont). This is my imagination at work! Dainty cafes and boutiques fill the street, while people actually walk and sip on coffee and snack on gluten-free scones (yes, we are steered back to the LA mentality). 

I recently read this quote on Instagram which said "I like to hang out with people that make me forget to look at my phone," this is true, but "I like to turn my 1-hour brunch into a 3-hour excursion with laughs and selfies." I may have just created the motto for my generation (kidding, I won't accept this much credit). Regardless, Larchmont Village really is a place where time is not of the essence. It's relaxing, serene, and most importantly just a short drive from central Los Angeles. The next time you're wanting to toss something at the guy that cut you off in traffic, just redirect yourself here! Buy yourself a decaf, non-fat latte and chill. Free therapy (well almost free, if you count that latte)!!! 

AOC Wine Bar and Restaurant

Top by Lush. jeans by Forever 21. Shoes by Tracey Ross. Bag by Marciano.

As a neurotically punctual person I really hate to admit that I am super late to the AOC party. This wine bar/restaurant has been around for over 10 years and sadly this is my first visit! Granted when it first opened it's modern small plates and farm to table approach didn't receive the same praise as it does now. I guess I will use the excuse that 10 years ago I wasn't 21, and certainly culturally clueless. Fast forward to today, no stranger to tapas and a bit of a wine enthusiasts, I am happy I stumbled upon this place when searching for a parking space. O the joys of discovering LA, seriously do people come across restaurants like this in other cities? 

I noticed there to be a slightly more mature crowd, meaning late 30's and up, not to mention well dressed; even the hostess looked like she should be dining at this spot. Hence they also close earlier than similar counterparts-- we arrived around 10PM and by 11 they were winding down and many patrons had left. They have a fabulous selection of wines (not to the state the obvious) and various cheeses. My boyfriend also ordered the market fish which was delicious! My only con was service was a tad bit slower than usual, although very attentive. Make sure you're not in a rush when choosing to dine here! An old friend once told me slower service is synonymous with the LA culture-- and this place very much has that LA vibe, a mix of farmhouse chic and tinseltown glamour. Ask to sit in the garden if available, it will enhance the experience! 

Dinner and Drinks in Santa Monica (Yet, Again)

Faux Leather Leotard by American Apparel. Skirt by Young Fabolous & Broke. Button Down by Theory. Shoes by Zigi Soho. Bag by KC Jagger. 

My exploration of Santa Monica continues... The prior week while in the area we stumbled upon a sign for Salsa dancing lessons at Ma'kai on Ocean Ave. We set a plan to return the following week (I even put together a steamy dancing outfit). Having been to Ma'Kai in years prior I was familiar with the space and excited to revisit. Unfortunately and to my surprise, the restaurant/lounge has really dwindled. The clientele and ambiance reminded me of a college bar invaded by frat brothers. We didn't have a chance to order drinks before glasses started to break on the floor. Nothing was organized, it was crowded, and the music was rap, NOT SALSA! Lesson learned! 

We decided to walk (literally) across the street to Seasons 52 for dinner. Although I recently found out this restaurant is actually a chain I was pleasantly surprised at the sophistication and tastefulness of the decor. The food was also very fresh and and beautifully presented. The dessert display was my favorite! My boyfriend and I shared the "Lump Crab, Roasted Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms" appetizer, I had the "Maui Tuna Crunch" entree salad, while he had the steak. We also shared a pecan pie mousse for dessert. With dinner, I had a glass of rose while my boyfriend sipped on the "Pomegranate Margarita Martini." Everything was to our liking. The service was also very attentive! Apparently they are known for their flatbread, but sadly I cannot comment on this as we did not order any. 

Before heading home, we popped into The Bungalow Lounge down the street. Similarly to Ma'Kai, The Bungalow has been open for years but never seems lose to its cool and popularity. Without fail there is always a line on weekend nights, but because this was a Wednesday evening, there was no waiting involved. Ironically the place was pretty lively inside but not over crowded. I have always been a fan of their hippy and beachy decor, making Santa Monica the perfect home for this fun lounge; I really couldn't think of a better location! Having frequented this place on both a weeknight and weekend night, I suggest the first as weekends tend to attract a younger crowd and the best of luck waiting in line. Despite the possible (overdone) hype, I still enjoy this place and find it a great lounge in not only Santa Monica but LA in general. 

Dinner at La Dolce Vita (Dessert at the Peninsula Hotel) in Beverly Hills

Playsuit by Bebe. Shoes by Dune London. Bag by Marciano. Scarf is Vintage Cartier. Hat purchased at a Third Street Promenade (in Santa Monica) kiosk. 

This past weekend I decided to channel my inner French femme and take a leisurely pre dinner stroll around Beverly Hills. Mostly I was excited to wear my Cartier scarf which was gifted to me probably 10 years ago. When I started noticing the mini scarf around the neck trend coming alive, I immediately brought this cute accessory out to play! I had also recently purchased this fabulous hat, so it seemed only natural to combine the two for a very European look. 

Our friends recommended for us to try "La Dolce Vita" on Little Santa Monica Blvd. for delicious Italian food in a darling, intimate setting. First off, you can sneeze and walk by this place it's so hidden; of course this is also part of the appeal. The location on Wilshire Blvd. and Santa Monica Blvd. is not the most ideal, but in a strange way entering the restaurant kind of makes you feel "in the know" because it resembles a somewhat speak easy front. The inside is absolutely divine, reminiscent of an old-school Italian (or New York) hang out for the ridiculously important mobsters. We ordered the Vongole Oreganata (breaded baked clams), La Dolce Vita Famous Chopped Salad, and the Polpette Di Vitello (meatballs and spaghetti recommended by the waiter). We also tried a few of their specialty tequila cocktails. The food and drinks were good, but did not blow our socks off. The ambiance surely surpasses the cooking. Normally I would say we may have ordered the wrong thing, but considering the waiter recommended one of the dishes, I am inclined to say that is not the case. We decided to skip the dessert and walk a couple of blocks over to the Peninsula Hotel for a nightcap and some sweets. 

As luck would have it there was a piano player in the "Living Room," one of the dining areas of the hotel. We nestled ourselves right next to the entertainment and ordered Coffee with Baileys and their 15 layer Godiva chocolate cake (just thinking about it makes me salivate). Of course we were not disappointed! I don't have to stress the fact that the Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hill is absolutely beautiful in both decor and dining. Normally when one thinks upon "hotel food" there is a negative connotation, however, the Peninsula with a doubt break this stereotype. I have visited this location for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks, and I have never been disappointed!