Author Archives: toddrickallen

Organic Farm Coming To West LA

Posted on by
Reply

I noticed this bright, sunny new storefront at 12211 Wilshire Blvd. in West LA (next door to Bar Food, and Amandine Cafe) promising a new venture, Organic Farm is moving into the space.  I couldn’t get much more information other than what’s posted in the window stating that they offer the finest organic products: snacks, juices, and other items that are “earth grown, 100% natural”.  You will, however, notice the little green cross and references to two medical marijuana bills in small print at the bottom of the paper.  Hmmm…  Look for a Summer 2012 opening. 

 

It’s Official… Tudor House To Close July 22nd

Posted on by
2

As I reported earlier (toddrickallen.com/tudor-house), after 50 years, Anglophile institution Tudor House, the store, restaurant, tearoom, and bakery at 1403 Second Street in Santa Monica is to close.  According to the paper posted on the window, it looks like they now have an official date, Sunday July 22nd.  To commemorate the sad news, they will be giving out complimentary glasses of champagne to all customers who come in on Saturday or Sunday of their last weekend to wish them goodbye.  Read their farewell letter here: thetudorhouse.com.  I was told by an employee that a new “Spanish” restaurant will be taking over the space.  I’ll keep you posted…

Update:  EaterLA is reporting that the restaurant moving into the Tudor House space will be a paella and tapas venture by Lazy Ox restaurateur Michael Cardenas.  The new restaurant is to be named Taberna Arros y Vi.  Read more at: la.eater.com.

La Focacceria Tra Di Noi Now Closed In the Evenings For Renovations

Posted on by
Reply

Some restaurants can go a gazillion years before attempting a renovation (think Spago), but not plucky little La Focacceria Tra Di Noi at 362 N. Camden in Beverly Hills, that only just opened in May of last year.  As you can see from the notice posted in the window, as of this week, they are closed for dinner as they undergo a re-do.  According to the sign, they will still be open for lunch.  To get invited to the grand re-opening, email them at Lafocatradinoibh@gmail.com.

Westside Tavern’s Bonny Doon Wine Event

Posted on by
2

Westside Tavern, in the Westside Pavillion, is hosting a special event with Randall Grahm, the “winemaker and philosopher king” of Bonny Doon vineyard on Thursday, July 12th at 7:00pm.  The special five course Chef’s dinner will be paired with, you guessed it, various Bonny Doon wines.  For more information, contact Lori Theis at (310) 470-1539 or events@westsidetavernla.com. 

 

La Gourmandise’s Petite Pantry Opens This Week In Santa Monica Place

Posted on by
Reply

The culinary school in The Market atop Santa Monica Place, La Gourmandise School, will open its offshoot, Petite Pantry this week in the old space where Aurelie’s Cookies was, next door to the school.  They will be offering various baking supplies such as chocolates, specialty flours, and spices.  And if you miss Aurelie’s Cookies, they will be available on the weekends. 

 

Ta Ta For Now, Spago…

Posted on by
Reply

Say what you will about Spago in Beverly Hills, but in terms of quantifiable memories, it tops my list of LA restaurants.  Spago closes for a much-needed and anticipated re-do on Sunday and won’t re-appear until mid September.  Here’s what I’ve been able to glean from friends who work there:  The beloved patio stays, but the fountain is out and will be replaced with a fireplace.  The booth in the first photo is going and in its stead will be a champagne cellar and a wine cellar.  The menu will be updated and changed as will the entire kitchen, but many of the staff will be returning.  And bye-bye salmon pizza.  We eagerly look forward to the unveiling and until then, here a few memories…

M Café’s Build Your Own Burger Bash

Posted on by
Reply

Looking for a vegan, macrobiotic option for your Fourth of July barbeque party this year?  Look no further than M Café.  They’ve neatly wrapped up an impressive party package to help you create your backyard burger bar.  Available to serve either 4-6 ($80) or 8-10 ($160), each deal comes with Big Macro Patties, Soy Mozzarella Cheese, Special Sauce, Whole Wheat Buns, all the fixin’s, and two deli salads such as Kale with Spicy Peanut Dressing, Creamy Cole Slaw, or Scarlet Quinoa.  Just throw those burgers on the barbie and your set.  Get more info at: mcafedechaya.com.

 

Potato Corner Coming To Century City

Posted on by
2

A new venture, Potato Corner appears to be building a free-standing shop on the first floor of the Westfield Century City Shopping Center.  With locations at various malls throughout LA and the US, this is their first foray into the Westside.  As you can guess, their specialty is potatoes in an array of forms and flavors.  Check out their menu here: http://potatocornerusa.com/menu/.

Sweet Crush Ice Bar Coming To Brentwood

Posted on by
3

Construction is underway on an “Asian” shaved ice shop in Brentwood.  Sweet Crush Ice Bar is moving into the space at 11761 San Vicente Blvd, near Whole Foods.  As you can see from the photo, it looks like they have a way to go, but I’m told the icy treats should begin rolling out sometime in July.  Check out their Facebook page here: facebook.com/pages/Sweet-Crush-Ice-Bar.

Native Foods Café’s Big Daddy Dagwood Sandwich…

Posted on by
1

Native Foods Café rolls out their Big Daddy Dagwood Special Meal in time for Father’s Day.  Consisting of “warm thinly sliced original seitan, caramelized onions, vegan cheddar, avocado, tomatoes, pickles, mustard, mayo and creamy horseradish sauce on grilled marble rye” and served with special fresh garlic fries. Cost is a cool $9.95.  But you can only get it this weekend only, June 15th through the 17th.  Read more at nativefoods.com.

 

Summer Taste Wine Series At Santa Monica Place

Posted on by
Reply

While we’re on the subject of Santa Monica Place, starting tonight and running the entire summer on the second Wednesday of every month through October, you can advance your oenophilic knowledge at the Learn About Wine Summer Series at Santa Monica Place.  Tonight’s lesson, “Que Syrah – A Night for Rhones” commences at 7:00pm and goes until 9:00pm.  Cost is $60 at the door.  Read more at learnaboutwine.com.

M Café Celebrates Its 7th Anniversary June 15th With Deals

Posted on by
1

 M Café will be celebrating its 7th anniversary with a “Lucky No. 7” celebration on Friday, June 15th.  From 7pm until closing, you can get any of the following items for $7 each: Big Macro Burger (w/ side), Tofu Teriyaki Rice Bowl, M Chopped Salad, Tuna Wrap (w/ side), 16 oz Juice: Refresher or Pick Me Up, Two cupcakes (M Café patisserie only), or Two-Salad Deli Combo.  Offer good at both locations, read more at: mcafedechaya.com.