Category Archives: News

Spazio Caffè Coming Soon To Montana Ave.

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More competition to the Montana Ave. coffee scene:  Renovations are underway on the old White Lilac space at 1511A Montana Ave. in Santa Monica to make room for the West Coast premier of a coffee shop by Italian specialty coffee brand Manuel, Spazio Caffè.  Based in San Vendemiano, Italy and with locations throughout the world and one US location on the East Coast, the artisan coffee purveyor will also likely offer its line of selective teas, chocolate, baked goods, and merchandise. No word on an opening date yet, but as always, I’ll keep you posted… Read more at: manuel.it/en/spaziocaffe.

Melisse’s Australian Black Truffle Tasting…

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Alas, we find ourselves woefully between truffle seasons.  But those desperate for the fabulous fungus can rejoice: Melisse in Santa Monica has procured a stash of Australian black truffles (fully in season) and is offering an 8 course truffle tasting menu for $345.  But they are also offering their signature dishes à la carte as well including: Fresh Tagliatelle (grated black truffles, parmesan brown butter truffle froth), Truffle Risotto (carnaroli rice, mascarpone, shaved black Australian truffles), Sweet White Corn Ravioli (brown butter truffle sauce, shaved black Australian truffles), or the classic Truffle Egg  with toasted brioche.  melisse.com.

Johnny Rockets Coming To Santa Monica Place

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In further mall news…  It looks like the latest contender to step into the boxing ring that is the Santa Monica Place food scene is going to be… (drumroll) Johnny Rockets.  With locations throughout the US and So Cal, the retro burger chain has begun construction on a never-occupied stall in the food court.  Best of Luck!  Until the final bell, you can check out their menu and more here: johnnyrockets.com.

 

Organic Farm Coming To West LA

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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…

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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…

Potato Corner Coming To Century City

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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

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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.