Well it looks like popular neighborhood watering hole, JP’s Grill on the corner of Wilshire and 11th in Santa Monica got caught by ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Control) on the 18th of November and will remain closed down until the 2nd of December.  While I don’t know the charge, usually ABC sends out stings to catch establishments that serve liquor to minors.  I’m continuing to see a steady stream of depressed partiers wandering aimlessly around the front door, not sure what to do next…

Toddrickallen got a chance to catch up with Antonio DeCicco, who left Toscana about 7 months ago to open his own venture, Villetta in the old Chez Mimi space at the corner of 26th and San Vicente in Brentwood.  Antonio showed me around the spacious complex, which although looking like it still needs a lot of work, is slated to open soon.  The concept of Villetta is not so much a single restaurant, but a series of buildings, outdoor dining spaces (with heated radiant concrete), and lively bars (the address boasts the only 2:00am liquor license in the area).  People will be encouraged to mingle throughout the various houses and perhaps find a comfy corner or nook to relax and have a drink and a nibble.  The menu is described as “South Italian fresh market driven” and to helm the kitchen, Antonio has hired Pippa Calland, a former sous chef at the French Laundry.  Indeed, Antonio has recently returned from the Amalfi Coast to find inspiration.  And yes, there will be a pizza oven.  The reason the 3 million dollar restoration of the space has taken so long is because the old Chez Mimi buildings are designated landmarks and any change whatsoever requires permits and cutting through red tape.  But, persistence is paying off.  Look for an opening in about one month, although private parties have already booked out the first few weeks.

Mozza2Go’s “Scuola di Pizza” has announced the December dates for its pizza-making classes.  The classes are held on Sundays from 7:00pm to 10:00pm and will be on the following dates: December 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th. The classes cost $150 per person.  What a perfect gift for the Holiday season!

If you’ve been wondering what’s with all the construction at 1515 Ocean Ave. in Santa Monica, they’ve finally put up signs.  Apparently the new Shore Hotel will be opening on the spot sometime in Summer of 2011.  Not much news on the internet yet, and their website is still under construction, but it looks like it will be a hip destination hotel which means a restaurant of some kind.  I’ll keep you posted.

You can get a glimpse of what it will look like here…

Construction is underway on a new Italian sandwich shop in Manhattan Beach.  Toscana Deli, at least according to the sign, will be serving soups, salads, pastries, and sandwiches.  The new deli is located on the corner of Highland and 41st street and will be open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Jane Lockhart took time out of her busy schedule to chat briefly with a nosy Toddrickallen on Friday about the Santa Monica opening of her second location of her popular bakery Sweet Lady Jane (first reported here https://toddrickallen.com/2010/04/09/sweet-lady-jane-santa-monica/) . According to Jane, the wildly anticipated Nov. 18th opening is more than likely going to be pushed back “a few days” due to the amount of work left to be done and the massive cleanup. The walls were still being painted with swirling patterns when she showed me around.  The space is bright and airy with a fresh, welcoming feel.  With the recent bakery explosion on Montana Avenue, all eyes have been eagerly on SLJ.  It looks like we’ll have to wait a bit longer…  The good news is that all you NoMa housewives can order your Thanksgiving pies now!  SLJ has a pie and cake menu posted in its window.  Call (310) 254-9499 for details.

Even though she’s out as editor-in-chief at Bon Appetit magazine (replaced by Adam Rapaport), Barbara Fairchild isn’t exactly slowing down.  After a whirlwind tour of the Bay Area, she’ll be bringing her promotion of the new book Bon Appetit Desserts to the LA area.  Catch her book signing at Macy’s Topanga, Home Department, Level 3 on Sunday, November 14 at 1:00pm.  They’ll even be offering dessert samples and baking demos!

If you bring in your voting confirmation today, you will get a free appetizer at Susan Feniger’s Street (with the purchase of $10 or more).  This will be particularly handy if you’re “celebrating” Prop 19’s passage and happen to get the munchies…