Outside The South Bay

By Michael • January 20th, 2012

It’s interesting to see how different passions can cross over, comingle, and complement each other perfectly. I was able to experience this first hand when Buick partnered with Food+Wine magazine for a test drive event at the swank St. Regis Monarch Hotel in Dana Point, CA.

August 2011 marks the first “birthday” of the remodeled Santa Monica place shopping center.  If you recall the old Santa Monica place and have seen it since the remodel, then you know they literally tore the roof of the mutha!  Read on to hear how they’re celebrating.

Before you groan about taking the 110 Freeway all the way to Pasadena, read these tips on beating the traffic and making the most of this event.

The Catalina Island Conservancy is offering a different view of Catalina by combining volunteerism with tourism.  The result is an unforgettable experience on one of Southern California’s most accessible and beautiful islands.

You may have been to Hollywood many times and feel like you know it inside and out.  If you’re ready for a fresh look — with some tasty food along the way — considering taking Hollywood one site and one bite at a time.

Thirsting for a rare ale?  You don’t have to go all Indiana Jones, around LA on ropes and vines!  The Yard in Santa Monica is making it easy for you to find elusive brews with their Beer Freek series of rare beer tastings.

Recently I had the opportunity to take a deep dive into the menu at Joe’s Restaurant.  Holding down the North end of Venice’s trendy Abbot Kinney Blvd since 1991, Executive Chef and owner Joe Miller attributes his longevity to a mix of “formal French techniques with Asian and California-influenced esthetics”.

LA isn’t the only town that has food trucks rolling out to feed hungry folks on the go.  Recently, I had the opportunity to check out one of San Francisco’s premiere gourmet trucks, Chairman Bao.

For Nicole’s birthday, we set off on an amazing race across LA.  The finish line involved getting Thai food in Culver City!

LA is a great city for experiencing the World Cup and all the revelry that goes with it. With the multitude of cultures that thrive in this melting pot, just about everyone has a country or team in the tournament that they can connect with.  Its no surprise then, that restaurants are showing their team spirit by backing the teams that match their menus.

In this report, Annalise takes a look back at the San Diego Spirits Festival.  She shares her thoughts on vodka, scotch, and even a liqueur made from coca leaves!

Old Town Pasadena is kicking of its first restaurant week today, Tuesday June 1.  Running until June 8, the seven day event features deals at 25 restaurants around the swank and historic Old Town area.

This weekend is full of events that will please foodies all over town.  From LA, to the South Bay, to OC, there’s something for everyone!

While many restaurants come and go, there are a few that stand the test — and tastes! — of time.  The Chaya chain of restaurants is one that has built its staying power on a reputation of good food and good service. To celebrate 20 years of business at its Venice location and 10 years [...]