This Weekend: Renegade Craft Fair

Starting today at 11am, the Los Angeles leg of the Renegade Craft Fair begins! I am planning to take the Metro and hopefully avoid any parking situations. Can't wait to check it out!

My New Wednesday Ritual

So a while back I posted about the Los Angeles Conservancy's "Last Remaining Seats" summer film series that they host in historic theaters on Broadway in Downtown L.A. Well..... two weeks ago I attended my first screening, and it have to say, buying the series package was a great idea and I can't recommend attending one of these nights enough! For the next month, I'll be attending these screenings, and probably eating beforehand at my new favorite restaurant!

Two Wednesdays ago I left work in Santa Monica, headed downtown, and on a whim, typed "macrobiotic" into my Yelp application. Up came Shojin which is a vegan, macrobiotic Japanese restaurant on the third floor of the Little Tokyo shopping center on Alameda. Seeing as how it was pretty close to the Los Angeles Theater, where I would be seeing "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" later, I drove over to Alameda and found a parking spot on the street. The meter was broken - bonus! (I later found out there is free parking in the shopping center lot, with validation). Anyway, I entered the mall, where I was decidedly out of place, and smiled all the way up the escalator to the 3rd floor where the huge, cheery flowers of the ceiling art glowed pinkly onto the facade of Shojin - also cheerful with its floral paintings on display. I was immediately greeted by the hostess, who later appeared to be the owner as well, and welcomed warmly. She asked if it was my first time and was very friendly. I was so happy just walking in there - as the walls were adorned with colorful paintings from a local artist and the menu depicted all sorts of yummy dishes I had only recently been introduced to (Thanks, Kind Diet!) and extolled the virtues of vegan, macrobiotic meals. I ended up ordering quite a lot, as I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I got the kukicha tea, a barbecued seitan/avocado sushi roll (half size), a vegetable soup and a really delicious ramen bowl, which ended up being huge! It had veggies and noodles and lots of broth, and I took home the leftovers, which were considerable. My food and tea was served by an adorable waitress who bowed to me whenever she placed a dish in front of me, and to whom I couldn't help but bow back! I wasn't sure which spoon I was suppose to use for what - I used the chop sticks for the seitan rolls, but that was really messy. The soup I had with a regular spoon, but I learned that the white ceramic spoon with the flat bottom is for ramen. It's a little awkward to fit in my mouth, but it worked, and my food was too good to notice. Anyway, I had to get in and out quickly so as not to miss the show, so I didn't get to try any of the delicious looking desserts. I'll report back after tomorrow!

Anyway, if you've never had a chance to visit the Los Angeles Theater on Broadway and 6th, you are missing out. This place is beyond gorgeous - it's so beautiful I would happily get married there. I realized then that that's why the venue opened up an hour before the movie started... just so people can wander around and admire the splendor of the interior. There are several levels of the theater itself, with a balcony and mezzanine. The bowels of the theater are where the bathrooms are (eww, gross, no pun intended) and these bathrooms are truly gems. I felt like a princess walking through the mirrored ante-chamber and could only imagine a bride with all her attendants getting ready for a wedding.

Once I get settled in my seat (which was nearly center - oh, the boons of sitting singly), I realized that the house was packed! Completely sold out. The director of the L.A. Conservancy spoke about the Conservancy's work and upcoming projects, mentioned the evening's sponsors, which included 213, my favorite nightlife company (I even saw Cedd Moses outside the theater when I checked in), and then introduced Matthew Weiner - the creator of Mad Men! What a thrill!

Matthew got up and spoke a bit about Mad Men, working with Robert Morse (Cooper on the show) and about the film and it's run on Broadway. Robert Morse and the film's other star - Michelle Lee - were both on hand that night, and indulged the audience with some stories of Broadway, making the film, and some singing and dancing! They were great.

Once the curtains finally parted and the lights went dim, I really had no idea what to expect. But let me tell you, "How To Succeed in Business..." is spectacular! I really don't care for most musicals, but this was smart, funny, romantic, and had choreography by Bob Fosse! I loved the '60s fashion, the storyline, the music, everything! Robert Morse was amazing - I really want to cue it up on Netflix just so I can watch it again. I really loved this movie. I believe it won a Tony, and I can only imagine seeing the original cast on New York's Broadway. I certainly came close that night on Broadway West.

The Wednesday following I did much of the same - that night the film was Hitchcock's "Strangers On a Train" and the venue was the Million Dollar Theater, at 3rd and Broadway. My dinner at Shojin ran a little long as I left work a little later, but it was amazing for a second time! It took me a while to find parking near the theater as it was later, but I made it just as the film was starting. I didn't get the chance to look around as much, but I'll get the opportunity for another showing later this month. Anyway, surprise, surprise, "Strangers" was fantastic as well! I never cease to be amazed by all the great films that have come before, and I wish I had more time to see them! What a creepy-comic film - great for this June gloomy weather we're having. The film was preceded this time by a cartoon from Warner Brothers about a bull dog who cares for a kitty cat - so funny! I missed the opening remarks, but I'm sure they were interesting, as well.

Anyway, have I sold you yet?? Get your tickets for The Last Remaining Seats already! They are mostly sold out, except for the last two. Here's the link: http://www.laconservancy.org/remaining/index.php4

ReVamp Your Wardrobe

I just discovered ReVamp in Downtown Los Angeles, while on a quest to find a vintage card case. I am so excited to spend more time perusing the website, and I am definitely booking a 1930's hair and makeup how-to class for my friend and myself this summer. In the meantime, for all you vintage style lovers out there, feast your peepers on this:

Gorgeous Jewelry from Carlee Santarelli

A few months back I met Carlee Santarelli, a Los Angeles-based jewelry designer, through a mutual friend while at Royal/T Cafe. She was wearing some of her own designs, which incorporate vintage fabric and lace, and unique bits and pieces she finds downtown. Her rings, in particular, are her signature pieces, overlaying the lace and fabrics with cabochon to magnify the patterns. Each of her pieces are hand-made and unique, and available at several local boutiques. Check her website for specific locations.

Last Remaining Seats Film Series - On Sale Now

The Los Angeles Conservancy's classic film series - Last Remaining Seats - is now available for advance purchase. Conservancy members enjoy pre-sale tickets, and a discount. Support the gorgeous historic theaters that serve as venues for the screenings, and become a member today! I bought my tickets and can't wait to see some of Hollywood's classic movies in the most sumptuous movie theaters! Read my previous post for more details.

THE GRADUATE (1967) screens June 16, 2010 at the Los Angeles Theatre.

Film Noir Festival

The 12th annual Noir City film festival starts this week at the Egyptian Theater in Hollywood, presented by the American Cinematique in collaboration with The Film Noir Foundation . CRY DANGER (1951), featuring rare footage of mid-century downtown Los Angeles screens this Friday at 7:30pm, followed by TIGHT SPOT. Your $11 ticket gets you into the double feature. The film festival continues through April 18th. Don't miss out! Many of these films are not available on DVD.

Rainy Day at the Movies Part 2

An exploration of Los Angeles' film gems continues.

Gorgeous Historic Theaters

• The best way to experience these masterpieces is to subscribe to the Los Angeles Conservancy's Last Remaining Seats series, now in its 24th year, which screens classic films in the various historic theaters of Los Angeles. The preliminary schedule for this season is below. Tickets will go on sale March 31 for Conservancy members. As if the movies themselves weren't excellent enough to draw out the masses, the sheer beauty of these architectural landmarks will knock you out.

May 26           How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (1967)         Los Angeles Theatre

June 2             Strangers on a Train (1951)                                                        Million Dollar Theatre 

June 9             American Graffiti (1973)                                                             Orpheum Theatre

June 16           The Graduate (1967)                                                                   Los Angeles Theatre

June 23           Flor silvestre (Wild Flower) (1967)                                             Million Dollar Theatre

June 30           Peter Pan (1924)                                                                         Orpheum Theatre

Film Club of Note

• LACMA's Film Club, newly minted after some controversy over the suspension of the museum's film programming, has roused the support of director Martin Scorsese, among hundreds of other Los Angeles film enthusiasts and cinephiles. LACMA is promoting the Film Club this February by giving away tickets to two Clint Eastwood screenings of your choice. Screenings of The Essential Clint Eastwood series begin February 12, 2010.

Detroit, the new Brooklyn?

Now, some people compare downtown Los Angeles and even Venice Beach to various cities in Brooklyn, and I dislike the patronizing insinuation that L.A. is only a lesser version of New York. However, I can appreciate the notion that somewhat dodgy towns can re-invent themselves with the arrival of avant garde (or, perhaps more accurately - struggling artist) inhabitants. Both Downtown and Venice have been re-born in this manner, and both boast an increasinly rich variety of culinary and cultural offerings. (Of the two, I prefer Downtown).

The latest broken-down city to herald the emergence of broke, young artists is none other than Detroit, Michigan. What a tremendous boon for the city who has seen nothing but turmoil, unraveling hopes and bankruptcy the last few years. With the Kresge Foundation's grant of $450,000 to 18 visual artists, it appears a similar renaissance could be on the horizon for Motor City, as well. See Flavorwire for more info.

On a selfish level, I like to think of the young, poor and creative as the saviors of society. With little in the way of responsibility, and few materials to tinker with, these are the ones who dare to think outside the established order. Few distractions and even fewer restrictions in the presence of a burning desire to survive spark some of the world's best ideas. Desperation can also be debilitating, so keep it coming, Patrons of the Arts.

(Note to L.A.'s resident billionaires - Grab a clue from Eli Broad (the man knows a thing or two about smart investments) and support your city's art scene! MOCA, LACMA & others are more than storehouses of pretty crap - they fuel dreams and inspire revolutions. Duh.)

Photograph by Yves Marchand and Romain Meffre

Continuuing the Conversation about CORKBAR

Corkbar now has a special night called "Test Kitchen Tuesdays". The chef (Albert Aviles) prepares taster-sized portions of "new, market-driven" dishes that aren't yet featured in the regular menu. Each item is $2. Been meaning to go back to check this out! (FYI, this goes on every Tuesday, starting at 5pm, until the food runs out).

I've also been meaning to check out Gjelina in Venice. Carlo Mondavi (of Mondavi winery) recommends the food. I'll also have to check out Continuum!

Corkbar

403 W. 12th Street (South Park section of DTLA)

Los Angeles, CA 90015

213-746-0050

UPDATES:

Corkbar now features jazz on Sundays from 5-9pm with great wine & beer deals AND delivers locally!

Profane Oversight!

Tony's is my new favorite bar.

While The Varnish is still my favorite place to weave glamour and subterfuge into my life, and reigning home of the best hand-crafted cocktail, I love the masculinity of Tony's and how I feel being amidst it.

It's in the Arts District downtown, though at night the surrounding area is pretty deserted. The decor, ambience, menu, music and manager are all perfect and lovely and just right. Tony's has been reclaimed by Cedd Moses and the 213 group, and I'm sure that it will be reaping the rewards of foresight sooner than later. I don't know if a downtown neighborhood saloon could get any more neighborhood-y or saloon-y.

Musings After An Evening Around Town

1. Sooo many young people live in that area where Santa Monica, L.A. and Brentwood come together... and so many of them are good-looking young guys! Whereas many young guys also live in Santa Monica, they aren't as easy to spot out and about.

2. Shockingly little traffic on the way to downtown AFTER the Laker game.... and surprisingly, not everyone downtown is even aware there is a game going on.... I predict this phenomenon won't last much longer... people are going to want to hang out in downtown after the games, and I'm sure smart restaurant and bar owners will take advantage of the opportunity.

3. Bottega Louie is GORGEOUS. It's got so much open space (above your head) and the interior is so pristinely white and gold that is just gives off a gleaming, regal quality... and the victuals! So many goodies to choose from... hand-bottled pasta sauces, premium hot chocolate powder, Irish butter, pastries..... I had a gin gimlet with cucumber and the spaghetti Bolognese..... both very good! Friendly wait-staff, as well.

4. To be continued...

L.A.= l'epicenter

SO MUCH is happening in L.A. today.... election day, another earthquake, American Idol Finale (Day 1), Dancing with the Stars finals... LAKERS in the playoffs!

Going to check out Cedd Moses' new bar and watching the LAKESHOW!!!!!!!!!

I hope nothing implodes!

Regent Theater

I keep falling even more in love with Downtown!

Went to MOCA Thursday to help with a special young alumni group initiative they're starting (ask me about special discount membership to MOCA) which began with a tour of Dan Graham's Beyond, and then the DT Art Walk.

Happy to see soo many people out and about for the walk! Only really stopped into Deborah Martin's gallery, which was packed! Even had a band playing and a bar set up. Jammed with people - it was so hot. Couple cool leather and jewelry vendors set up, too. Bumped into a guy who agrees that the Crocker Club would be amazing if only the owner would go back to West Hollywood. Then ran into the bohemian parents of one of my middle school friends... who were checking out our high school photography teacher's show at the Museum of Neon Art.

Met up with my friend at Little Radio (after managing to slip into the Regent Theater for a quick listen to some crazy dancing/drum beats). We headed over to Varnish (you're surprised?) to see our favorite bartender and have some Eastsides.... and he introduced us to the Angel Face. Though I don't remember leaving, I do know we went back to Regent to catch Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros. What a fun troupe!! My friend went to school with the accordion player, but if I hadn't known that, I could have totally believed they were a gypsy circus of players from the early 70s transported in space and time.... such a fun show! I counted I think 11 players on stage. And the Regent! How lovely it's become - gone are the concrete floors and how welcome are the red carpet draperies and the newly carpeted floor. It's by no means gorgeous, but I like that they've spruced it up. It is such a great little venue!

Ended the night with my first overnight at The Standard.... and the decision that I need to start saving for a personal chauffeur. Ha! My cab from the hotel to where my car was parked at Disney Concert Hall was $5.... if that was half a mile... what would it have cost the whole way home? Lord.

Food-Related Thoughts

Picked up a short stack of peanut butter cookies at Malibu Kitchen today... almost $6! They were good, but for some reason, I always leave MK a little unsettled. Not the best customer experience... Everything in there is overpriced. It has the potential to be a nice spot, but for whatever reason, the management doesn't really work to promote an atmosphere conducive for hanging out... I always just want to get in and out and not linger on the patio area.

Before this, I had a grilled cheese and tomato sandwich at Coogies (having abandoned my plan to attend the Grilled Cheese Invitational). It was good, but reinforced my position on sourdough bread - Somehow or other, sourdough deviates from the typical bread experience... it's not yummy and I would never eat it in a bread basket. My waitress was nice, though, and I read "Still Life With Woodpecker" while I waited. It's windy and a little chilly today, though, so I didn't linger long there, either.

Thursday I had "Sunny Toast" at Banquette Cafe on Main St. downtown before going to the Nokia Theater. It was cozy and surprisingly bustling. And, they serve breakfast food all day!

400 South Main Street Los Angeles, CA 90013-1314 - (213) 626-2768

I did end up going to CorkBar, and while my wine was good (I got something red from Justin) and the mac n cheese was terrific, I didn't really like the neighborhood. It's in the generic part of downtown right by Staples and it's mostly surrounded with faceless newer buildings and men overzealously directing you to their $7 parking lot. I prefer the areas from Spring to Main and 5th to 7th.

Little Radio is planning to have regular programming in the theater on Main and talk of opening a cafe is in the works. I think that would be really cool! Hope it goes through.

I'm Putting A Cork In It

Corkbar is the really AWESOME looking wine bar that just opened up Downtown. It features all California wines and their menu (which is very reasonably priced) looks fantastic!

I can't wait to get down there!! They have a happy hour during the week that is from 4-7 Monday through Friday. $4 pints (oh yeah, they also have artisanal beer) and half-off appetizers!

Cheap Eats; or, My New Favorite Restaurant/Bars That I Would Still Go To No Matter The Cost

Santa Monica

• Anisette - great food, wine, cocktails, but I love it for the decor and the nice feeling of sipping a glass of wine at the bar. Cute waiters, too.
• Bodega - $20 bottle of wine Tuesdays, and they just added a beet salad to the menu that I LOVE. Relaxed, unpretentious.

Downtown

• Cole's - even though it's a little far from Malibu, my friend and I are now regulars at Varnish, the speakeasy in the back. Cole's, though, should not be overlooked as a bar in its own right. Yes, everyone knows about the French Dip, but did you know about their extensive collection of gins and lagers? Further, there is nothing better anywhere than the baked mac and cheese and it's super cheap... like $3. Usually good music playing, too. And none of that West Hollywood riff raff. (Except maybe on Saturday's... but I don't go out then anyway anymore)

Silver Lake

• Malo - $1 tacos on Mondays, fantastic margaritas (not so cheap), and the CHEWY CHIPS!!!! ahhhhhh! More of a hipster crowd, I guess, but nobody's keeping track.

Eastern Revelry

So Tuesday night I went to the opening party at Barbarella Bar in Silver Lake. The vibe was sort of industrial glam... a giant crystal chandelier hanging next to exposed ventilation ducts. Good food, interesting scene.

Later, a short drive to Cole's to experience the wonder of The Varnish... shh! This new speakeasy from Cedd Moses's 213 Group boasts a cocktail list prepared by some of the country's best mixologists.

"This place certainly reeks of hospitality and good cheer, or maybe it's this cheese."

(Quote in honor of Jean Harlow's birthday today)

Tonight I'll be checking out some new places in Silver Lake and downtown, so my reviews will be forthcoming!

Also, I'm a bum and missed LACMA's "Vanity Fair" exhibit, so to make up for it I'm planning to check out "Art of Two Germanys" soon!

[This post was kind of lame, but I liked the quote and the picture so I went with it anyway. Tscha! -I.M.]

Downtown? Check this out

MOCA's Dan Graham: Beyond is a great show worth checking out. It's Graham's first American retrospective and really quite expansive.

I attended the opening on Valentine's Day and it was a great turnout! Lots of people came out to see the art, see Sonic Youth's Kim Gordon and Thurston Moore perfom with Mirror/Dash and mingle with the beauties who came out to celebrate a break in the rain!

It was so packed that my friend and I want to go back to actually see more of the show. Graham's art placements in magazines were hilarious and I loved his translucent mirror pieces.

While you're downtown, snag a seat at Cole's for their famous French dip or else slide into a red leather booth at HMS Bounty - if only to play Lionel Ritchie's "All Night Long" on the jukebox.

-MOCA Grand Avenue-