Chris Brown (shown here at a charity event in Miami) is receiving criticism about the street art on his Hollywood Dell home.

Chris Brown has stirred up controversy recently by covering parts of his Hollywood Dell home in graffitied monster designs. LA Weekly looks at the works objectively, questioning whether they should be considered art or a violation of the neighborhood code. [LA Weekly] 

Speaking of art, The Hollywood Reporter gives us a peek at Picture Plane, likely the city’s coolest personal theater. The 12-seat screening room cost 2 million dollars and was made for collector Jarl Mohn by famed artist James Turrell. [The Hollywood Reporter]

While you’re making your way through all the Memorial Day happenings around town, check out the new Styleliner pop-up in Venice. The brand brings contemporary global accessories to town by way of a funky Quonset hut. [Racked LA]

Eric Garcetti was officially named Mayor of Los Angeles this week. While the election itself was pretty standard, the path ahead of Garcetti isn’t necessarily smooth—the Daily News looks at his greatest challenges. [Daily News]

On the subject of elections, Jonathan Gold released the 2013 edition of his respected 101 best restaurants list, and Providence, Urasawa, and Spago took the first, second, and third spots, respectively. The entire article—and an interactive map—is available to LA Times subscribers, but Los Angeles Magazine has some highlights. [LA Mag]

Chi Lin offers a modern, lantern-lit atmosphere inspired by Hong Kong’s iconic skyline.

After the successful launch of RivaBella earlier this year, Innovative Dining Group impresses again with Chi Lin. Opened May 13 in West Hollywood, the new concept brings upscale Asian cuisine to a modern interior befitting the space’s Sunset Boulevard address.

Crafted by Cecile Tang (of JOSS renown), the debut menu draws on authentic Chinese flavors from multiple regions. Starters range from classics like Cantonese shrimp and wonton soup, to the more experimental char sui Mangalitsa pork belly lettuce cups. Lighter fare includes a fresh kale and crispy shiitake mushroom salad, while hungrier patrons will want to dig into the decadent mixed dim sum platter.

Housemade hand-pulled noodles appear a few times on the menu in Chi Lin’s rendition of jia jiang-mia, which features pork, chilies, and bean paste alongside the noodles, as well as Maine lobster Cantoness served over the signature noodles with ginger and scallion. Meats include a luxuriously seared A-5 Japanese wagyu with chef’s XO sauce and coarse sea salt, and a Peking duck. 

Whatever they order, guests can expect to enjoy their fare in a Studio Collective-designed space that’s influenced by both Hong Kong’s cosmopolitan skyline and the earthy, natural elements of Chinese culture. An alluring bar and large open-air patio make the place well suited for large groups and parties. 9201 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310-278-2068

The penne funghi tartufo is one of several new brunch items on offer at Fig & Olive this weekend.

Kiehl’s Sherman Oaks Grand Opening
Thursday, May 23, 2:30-4:30 pm
Kiehl’s Since 1851 skincare has partnered with Recycle Across America to celebrate their opening in the Westfield Fashion Square Mall. The earth-friendly event will give attendees a complimentary lip balm in exchange for bringing a recyclable item, and teach them how to craft used Kiehl’s products into something new. Gifts for the first 50 guests, sweets by Cake Monkey Bakery, and complimentary skin consultations and mini facials will also be on offer. 14006 Riverside Dr., Sherman Oaks, 818-995-8793

Newport Beach Wine Festival
Friday, May 24-Sunday, May 26; times vary per event and day
Truly toast the holiday weekend with the 10th Annual Newport Beach Wine Festival at Balboa Bay Resort. The festivities kick off Friday with a wine dinner that features food pairings from guest chefs and master sommeliers Ron Mumford and Ira Harmon as hosts (6:30 pm; $195). On the 25th, afternoon wine seminars are followed by the grand tasting gala event (7 pm; $125), which will include sips from over 50 wineries alongside live jazz and cuisine by chef Josef Lageder. Close the weekend with Sunday afternoon seminars, beer and spirits events, or a shellfish happy hour. For tickets or additional information, call 949-630-4146. 1221 West Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949-645-5000

Memorial Day Brunch at Fig & Olive
Saturday, May 25-Monday, May 27; 12-3 pm (Saturday, Monday); 11 am-3 pm (Sunday)
Fig & Olive celebrates new summer menus by chef Pascal Lorange with a special Memorial Day brunch service. Indulge in a three-course prix-fixe ($28) with items like a truffle mushroom croquette, penne funghi tartufo, or crab cake eggs benedict. Pair your fare with garden-fresh mocktails such as the Spiced Orchards, a combination of cloudy apple juice, muddled Thai basil and lemon, and freshly squeezed ginger and lime juices. For those who can’t make brunch, a new dinner menu will also be unveiled over the weekend (5:30 pm, Saturday-Sunday; 6 pm Monday). Dinner guests will also enjoy a jazz accompaniment by DJ Julien Nolan. Reservations are recommended by calling the restaurant at 310-360-9100. 8490 Melrose Pl., West Hollywood

Previous Next

Luxe cabanas and daybeds combine with sweeping city views at Altitude Pool at the SLS.

 

Altitude Pool sets itself apart with upscale cuisine by chef José Andrés.

 

The private cabanas feature an array of VIP services.

 

previous

next

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, so celebrate accordingly at one of the city’s premier rooftop retreats—the Altitude Pool at the SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills. Altitude is celebrating the start of summer with a Memorial Day Pool Party on May 26 (2-6 pm), featuring a live DJ and festive cocktails.

Even if you can’t make it Monday, the upscale pool deck always exudes a lively summer vibe. Situated atop the sixth floor of the hotel and boasting impressive city views, Altitude includes VIP bottle service, DJ music, seven exclusive cabanas complete with minibars and TVs, and poolside spa treatments by Robert Vetica Wet Bar.

What really sets Altitude apart from other hotel pool experiences, though, is the high-caliber cuisine from the hotel’s resident chef José Andrés. Breakfast items like the Greek yogurt shakes sweetened with agave nectar, in flavors like coconut and ginger or berry with mint, make for a refreshing start to the day. Or, enjoy afternoon snacks like the crab cake sliders, and the SLS fresh seafood bowl brimming with king crab, lobster, sea urchin, shrimp, scallops, and oysters, alongside Andrés’ similarly gourmet cocktail creations. His riff on the Arnold Palmer—lemonade spiked with Absolut Wild Tea—is particularly refreshing.

To inquire about Monday’s event or a weekend cabana rental, contact the host team at altitudepool@sbe.com. Meanwhile, the pool is open to the public 11 am-3 pm Monday through Friday by calling 310-246-5552 for a reservation. 465 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310-247-0400

David Arquette and John Terzian rev up LA's nightlife scene.

With summer fun almost officially upon us, we thought it fitting to chat with two of the city’s nightlife experts—John Terzian and David Arquette.

Co-owners of the vaudeville-style nightclub Bootsy Bellows (9229 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310-274-7500), Terzian and Arquette told Los Angeles Confidential how they came together, and the secret to a successful Los Angeles party venue. 

How did you start working together on Bootsy Bellows?
JOHN TERZIAN: We met through mutual friends and really complemented each other—we had a similar goal to achieve with nightlife, and we stayed true to it. It has been an amazing partnership.

What is the secret to opening a successful nightspot in Los Angeles?
DAVID ARQUETTE: To make the place fun, unique, and create an atmosphere that makes people feel comfortable enough to laugh, dance, see their friends, meet people, and fall in love—yes, even at a club.
JT: I just try to have the venue be a "home" for customers so that they always feel comfortable coming. My philosophy has been to create a space that people want to visit during good times and bad times.

How do you think the LA nightlife scene is changing?
JT: There was a time when you would just enter a place and everyone would be seated and staring at everyone else in the room. [Now] it's more about people dancing, watching performers, musicians, and all other forms of live entertainment. It is a fun time in LA nightlife.

Is there a neighborhood you think is particularly hot right now?
JT: The surrounding area of Abbot Kinney in Venice.
DA: In my opinion Bootsy has the best location. There is nothing like the Sunset Strip for going out and having a crazy and wild time. 

Bootsy Bellows will be a year old in June. Any big plans?
DA: No big plans yet, but I am sure there will be a Michael Jackson celebration at some point and a birthday party that shouldn't be missed.
JT: I just plan on it being another fun night/week at Bootsy as it has been for the past year.  

What’s next for you?
JT: I am focused on the new place we are opening—formerly The Beverly—which will debut this summer.
DA: I have a show called Cleaners that will be streaming on Crackle. I am also working on a few films and finally working on expanding Bootsy Bellows to international cities around the world.

A 2013 Bentley awaits for guests booking the Pacific Grand Tour Aficionado Package with St. Regis Hotels.

The St. Regis Hotel network and Bentley are teaming up this Memorial Day weekend to launch a new travel offer perfect for locals looking for a luxe way to explore the state. The Pacific Grand Tour Aficionado Package includes plush accommodations at both the St. Regis Monarch Beach and the St. Regis San Francisco, with the opportunity to drive a Bentley along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway between them.

Your adventure starts with a two-night stay within a spacious ocean-view suite at the St. Regis Monarch Beach, where amenities include private pool cabanas, an oceanfront championship golf course, a private bay club, a five-star spa, and cuisine by chef Michael Mina. Guests will then head north in a fully-equipped 2013 Bentley, armed with provisions for their journey, like a Grand Tourista travel tote designed by Jason Wu and a signature Bentley keychain.

Breathtaking views abound along Highway 1, from the waters of Santa Barbara to the cliffs of Big Sur, with the winding roads being no match for the Bentley’s precision mechanics. Once in San Francisco, check into a metropolitan suite, where a second two-night stay comes complete with the St. Regis’ signature butler service, as well as access to a top-of-the-line fitness center, fine dining, a luxurious spa, and more.

Guests booking the package can originate their journey from either hotel, and St. Regis concierges are on hand to help book any additional accommodations. The package begins at $6,900 and is available May 24-September 30, 2013. For reservations, contact the St. Regis San Francisco Aficionado Coordinator at 415-284-4070 or visit stregissanfrancisco.com.

Bar Marmont launches their guest chef series next week on May 30 and 31.

Bar Marmont’s kickoff to its guest chef series may not be until next week (May 30 and 31), but with Gabriel Rucker—the chief cuisinier from Portland’s Le Pigeon—as the inaugural chef, LA foodies will want to make reservations soon. This event introduces a new dining series that will bring some top cooking talents from across the nation into Bar Marmont’s kitchen.

Recently lauded as the 2013 James Beard Best Chef Northwest, Rucker is renowned for his twists on French cuisine, which he enhances with modern cooking techniques and inspired flavor combinations. For the Bar Marmont dinners, Rucker will team up with Bar Marmont chef Carolynn Spence. The pair will tour local purveyors like the Beverly Hills Cheese Shop, Lindy and Grundy butcher, and the farmer's market, to seek inspiration for their meal and find fresh ingredients. They will then put together a menu with four appetizers and four entrees to choose from, as well as a plated dessert paired with grappa.

The cost per person is $75, which doesn’t include tax or gratuity. Reservations are required and can be made by calling the Bar Marmont concierge at 323-650-0575 or by e-mailing bar@chateaumarmont.com. 8171 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood

Previous Next

Zachary Quinto, Alice Eve, Chris Pine, and Karl Urban

On May 14, 2013, the cast of Star Trek Into Darkness celebrated the film’s Los Angeles premiere at the Dolby Theatre, followed by an afterparty event at Hollywood’s AV Nightclub. The event featured surprise appearances by many of Hollywood's top talents, as well as an Xbox lounge and tunes by DJ Bizzy.

Photography by Alberto E. Rodriguez/WireImage

 

Tom Cruise and J.J. Abrams

On May 14, 2013, the cast of Star Trek Into Darkness celebrated the film’s Los Angeles premiere at the Dolby Theatre, followed by an afterparty event at Hollywood’s AV Nightclub. The event featured surprise appearances by many of Hollywood's top talents, as well as an Xbox lounge and tunes by DJ Bizzy.

Photography by Alberto E. Rodriguez/WireImage

 

Brad Grey and David Spade

On May 14, 2013, the cast of Star Trek Into Darkness celebrated the film’s Los Angeles premiere at the Dolby Theatre, followed by an afterparty event at Hollywood’s AV Nightclub. The event featured surprise appearances by many of Hollywood's top talents, as well as an Xbox lounge and tunes by DJ Bizzy.

Photography by Alberto E. Rodriguez/WireImage

 

Rob Moore and Christopher McQuarrie

On May 14, 2013, the cast of Star Trek Into Darkness celebrated the film’s Los Angeles premiere at the Dolby Theatre, followed by an afterparty event at Hollywood’s AV Nightclub. The event featured surprise appearances by many of Hollywood's top talents, as well as an Xbox lounge and tunes by DJ Bizzy.

Photography by Alberto E. Rodriguez/WireImage

 

Greg Grunberg and Jorge Garcia

On May 14, 2013, the cast of Star Trek Into Darkness celebrated the film’s Los Angeles premiere at the Dolby Theatre, followed by an afterparty event at Hollywood’s AV Nightclub. The event featured surprise appearances by many of Hollywood's top talents, as well as an Xbox lounge and tunes by DJ Bizzy.

Photography by Alberto E. Rodriguez/WireImage

 

Zoe Saldana and Kate Beckinsale

On May 14, 2013, the cast of Star Trek Into Darkness celebrated the film’s Los Angeles premiere at the Dolby Theatre, followed by an afterparty event at Hollywood’s AV Nightclub. The event featured surprise appearances by many of Hollywood's top talents, as well as an Xbox lounge and tunes by DJ Bizzy.

Photography by Alberto E. Rodriguez/WireImage

 

previous

next

Last week, the cast of Star Trek Into Darkness celebrated the film’s Los Angeles premiere at the Dolby Theatre, followed by an afterparty event at Hollywood’s AV Nightclub. The movie’s cast—which includes the likes of Zoe Saldana, Zachary Quinto, Karl Urban, Alice Eve, and Chris Pine—partied well into the evening.

Given the pedigree of director J.J. Abrams, the fête drew Hollywood talent in addition to those directly involved with the movie. Tom Cruise made a surprise appearance to congratulate Abrams and mingle with Paramount Pictures executives Brad Grey and Rob Moore. David Spade and Kate Beckinsdale were also in attendance, while some of Abrams’ Lost cast members like Jorge Garcia swung by to show their continued support of the director.  

The club was enhanced by décor befitting the theme, including a giant Starfleet insignia arch that guests traveled under to enter the event. The main room was embellished with purple and ivory carpets, tufted couches, silver cocktail tables, and an oversized modern chandelier. Once inside, event-goers could take to the dance floor and enjoy DJ Bizzy’s tunes, or check out the new Star Trek Xbox game in a designated Xbox lounge area.

Previous Next

Joie's new location boasts the feel of a Parisian apartment with vintage rugs set against a crisp, modern design scheme.

 

Decorative inset shelving plays off a beautiful armoire to showcase Joie accessories.

 

The effortless vibe of the clothing extends to the store’s décor.

 

This location sells the brand's new fragrance—Folle de Joie.

 

previous

next

Last month, California style brand Joie celebrated the opening of its seventh US retail location on Pasadena’s famed Colorado Boulevard. The Parisian-inspired store showcases Joie’s complete collection, including Joie Soft, Joie Shoes, Joie Handbags, and the recently-launched fragrance, Folle de Joie.

Designed with Joie’s effortlessly chic customer in mind, the Pasadena space has the feel of a bright city apartment, furnished with vintage accents to play off the crisp modern interior. Antique Parisian rugs dot the clean washed herringbone floors, while clothing and accessories are showcased on chrome racks and lit inset shelves that surround a beautiful armoire with carved songbirds at its peak. Even the store’s exterior hints at the shopping experience inside via intricately carved wrought-iron accents and a polished white-stone border.

With its corporate headquarters located in a Downtown LA loft, Joie offers quintessential California clothing, boasting airy silk and soft cotton fashions that allow the wearer to be simultaneously sophisticated and comfortable. This boutique coincides with a wave of expansion, which also includes their first location in Connecticut, and a new online boutique at joie.com. 47 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626-243-5704

The National, Cyndi Lauper, and the Steve Miller Band are among some of the exciting acts at The Greek this summer.

The Greek Theatre’s 2013 season kicked off Cinco de Mayo weekend, but some must-see concerts are still to come. With a lineup featuring contemporary headliners like Fun, Carly Rae Jepsen, and The National, the 5,900-seat outdoor theater is sure to see a packed house all season long, but we’ve picked our top eight. 2700 N. Vermont Ave., Griffith Park, 323-665-5857

For ‘80s lovers: Whether you gravitate toward poppy dance hits, slow love ballads, or rock tunes, there’s a throwback performance for you. Cyndi Lauper (June 13, 8 pm, $25-$85) is celebrating the 30th anniversary of her debut album with her She’s So Unusual tour, and some tickets include a VIP meet-and-greet with the artist. Collaborations between Pat Benatar, Neil Giraldo, and Cheap Trick (June 8, 7 pm, $35-$75), as well as ‘80s staple Heart alongside Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Experience (August 22-23, 7:30 pm, $36-$81), also promise to be pure fun.

For a chance to see concert legends: Don’t miss your opportunity to see some classic bands that might not continue to perform together much longer. The Steve Miller Band will take the stage with special guest The Doobie Brothers; both bands will pair their signature rock anthems with some newer releases (June 20, 7:30 pm, $40-$125). We also suggest snagging tickets now to see Brian Wilson reunite with original Beach Boys members Al Jardine and David Marks this fall (October 20, 7:30 pm, $35-$75). 

For something completely different: The Greek is just as legendary for its headlining performers as it is for bringing new and unique sounds to LA. Check out a live production of Garrison Keillor’s esteemed radio show, “A Prairie Home Companion,” with special guests Lily Tomlin, Paula Poundstone, and Jearlyn and Jevetta Steele (June 7, 7:30 pm, $46-$99). Or, catch The Greek debut of the Jerry Garcia Symphonic Celebration with Warren Haynes, which features orchestral interpretations of Jerry Garcia and the Grateful Dead’s classic rock sounds (August 4, 8 pm, $40-$100). If you like classical music—with a side of contemporary pop—check out the talented vocals from The Tenors (June 1, 8 pm, $35-50).