Weekend Recommender: April 18-21
LAB ART at Fred Segal, Alejandro Ingelmo shoe signing, and a charity-supporting lunch.
April 18, 2013
Bethenny Frankel was one of the headlining celebs at last year's LA Times Festival of Books. See some of this year's expected big-names below.
LAB ART Gallery Opening at Fred Segal
Thursday, April 18, 7-10 pm
Luxury shopping mecca Fred Segal welcomes LA’s revered LAB ART Gallery with an opening soiree this Thursday. Guests will enjoy refreshments courtesy of Beluga Vodka, Clover Juices, and Aquahydrate, as well as bites by Umami Burger and a fun photobooth. This marks the first time Fred Segal will house a gallery space, and the location includes over 2,000 square feet of works by renowned street artists Alec Monopoly, ThankyouX, Gregory Siff, and more. 500 Broadway, Santa Monica, 310-260-1300
Alejandro Ingelmo Trunk Show at Elyse Walker
Friday, April 19, 12-5 pm
Head to the Elyse Walker boutique for the chance to meet shoe designer Alejandro Ingelmo, who will be in-store to show off his Spring/Summer 2013 collection and sign purchases. Attendees will enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, as well as the exclusive opportunity to preorder items from Ingelmo’s Fall/Winter 2013 collection. RSVP to kaitlyn@elysewalker.com to attend. 15306 Antioch St., Pacific Palisades, 310-230-8882
The LA Times Festival of Books
Saturday, April 20-21, 10 am-6 pm
Join thousands of fellow bookworms at this exciting weekend festival, which includes music, movies, and other special events/appearances. From a reading by Molly Ringwald, to a Q&A with Debbie Reynolds, to a live cooking demonstration by skater-cum-chef Brian Boitano, there is something for everyone at the fun-filled event. Visit events.latimes.com for the full schedule; tickets are only necessary for some events and can be ordered online at latimesfob.eventbrite.com. USC University Park Campus, 850 W. 37th St., 323-442-1130
“Lunch Matters” Fundraiser at The Carondelet House
Sunday, April 21, 11 am-3 pm
Renowned chefs Suzanne Goin and Alice Waters team up for an afternoon event to help build a kitchen for the Larchmont Charter School of West Hollywood. As part of Waters’ Edible Schoolyard Program, the day at The Carondelet House will feature a delicious meal comprised of local and organic farmer’s markets ingredients, as well as cookbook signings and meet-and-greets by the chefs. Tickets range from $150-$1,000 and are available at lcw.mycharterschool.org. 627 S. Carondelet, Westlake, 323-466-1835
Photography by Jerod Harris/WireImage
Ritz-Carlton’s Garden-to-Glass Cocktails
Enjoy seasonal libations straight from the hotel’s rooftop garden.
April 18, 2013
Cool off with one of the Ritz Carlton Hotel’s signature garden-to-glass cocktails.
Toast spring with a refreshing cocktail at Downtown LA’s Ritz-Carlton Hotel, where they’re bringing back their garden-fresh libations for the second season. The cocktails are especially fresh since mixologists harvest fruits, herbs, and other produce straight from the hotel’s garden on the BLUE pool deck. With 15 varieties of herbs and produce ranging from strawberries to limes and stevia to fennel readily available, the ingredient combinations are endless.
Try something summery like the Kalamansi Lemonade, which combines SKYY vodka, Kalamansi lemon puree and honey-lemongrass syrup, fresh lemon juice, and Sprite; or the Rhubarb Shiso Fizz, with freshly-picked shiso leaves, housemade rhubarb simple syrup, and Ketel Oranje. The Pinarita is a play on a margarita, taking advantage of Thai basil from the garden, and mixing it with fresh lime juice, pineapple tequila, and Luxardo Triplum. Guests can also enjoy the specialty cocktails within the hotel’s signature restaurant WP24, and at the BLUE rooftop bar. 900 W. Olympic Blvd., Downtown LA, 213-743-8800
Q&A: Pizza Expert Adam Tomei
Actor-cum-pizza chef Adam Tomei dishes on his weekly pop-up at Lexington Social House.
April 17, 2013
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| Chef/actor Adam Tomei reigning over the kitchen at his weekly Lexington Social House pop-up. |
Adam Tomei wears many hats—he’s an actor known for roles in Flight and She’s Out of My League, the younger brother of actress Marisa Tomei, and the chef host of a Wednesday night pop-up pizzeria at Lexington Social House. There, Tomei’s menu changes weekly to incorporate everything from classic combinations inspired by his childhood in Brooklyn, to innovative mixes like the ode to CB with panteleo, sliced red onion, slivered almonds, rosemary, and olive oil. Below, the pizza guru dishes on his favorite pies, what he indulges in at Lexington Social House, and more.
How did you get into pizza?
ADAM TOMEI: Being an Italian-American from Brooklyn, it’s just part of my DNA.
What’s the craziest pizza combination you’ve ever made that actually worked?
AT: I tend to stick to the classics. The dessert pizza I've been experimenting with is probably the closest thing to crazy that I've tried.
From the pies you’ve served recently at your pop-up, what’s your favorite?
AT: I'm loving the smokey pazzo [with smoked mozzarella, speck, roasted red peppers, ricotta, and olive oil]. The smoky, combined with sweet and salty is too damn good.
Aside from your pizza, what’s your favorite item on the Lexington Social House menu?
AT: The fried chicken, but that would be my answer to every question if fried chicken could be an answer.
Is acting or cooking more nerve-wracking?
AT: They're pretty similar, actually. There are lots of nerves during the build-up, and then, once you're in it, you're too busy to be nervous.
Richard Serra’s ‘Double Rifts’ at Gagosian
The influential artist displays recent drawings and sculptures at the Beverly Hills space.
April 17, 2013
Double Rift #5, by Richard Serra, 2012.
An exhibit of recent drawings by renowned sculptor and artist Richard Serra is now on display at the Gagosian Gallery in Beverly Hills. Dubbed “Double Rifts,” the displayed pieces most prominently include large-scale drawings that explore the concept of rifts within space. The showcase is rounded out by sculptures like Serra’s Elevational Mass, a layered piece made of one the artist’s favorite materials to work with—steel.
Serra has long been considered one of the most groundbreaking modern artists of our time. With a focus on industrial materials and large-scale sculptures that engage the viewer and complement their surroundings, Serra has developed a following for his works in both the public and private domains. His Charlie Brown piece, housed within a courtyard in San Francisco, is a 60-foot sculpture of corten steel that was designed to honor Charlie Brown creator Charles Schulz. In addition to the Gagosian, Serra has shown at the Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, as well as multiple galleries worldwide. “Double Rifts” opens with an artist’s reception April 17 from 6-8 pm and is on view through June 1. 456 N. Camden Dr., Beverly Hills, 310-271-9400
Photography © Richard Serra. Courtesy of the artist and Gagosian Gallery
Paiche Premieres in Marina del Rey
Ricardo Zarate’s latest resto brings Peruvian/Japanese cuisine to the coast.
April 16, 2013
Prolific chef Ricardo Zarate—largely responsible for putting Peruvian cuisine on the LA radar—opened Paiche April 2 in Marina del Rey. Already known for the extremely popular Picca and Mo-Chica, Zarate’s new dining experience pays homage to the prehistoric Amazon fish that the Peruvians rescued from extinction, in both its name and its Japanese/Peruvian food influences.
Paiche is inspired by a Japanese izakaya in that it features mostly small plates specifically meant to complement the restaurant’s beverage options. The menu is divided into eight distinct sections, varying from salads to sashimi-style ceviches to vegetables and beyond, with a clear seafood theme that focuses on fresh, sustainable fish running throughout. In the appetizer section, try the lettuce wraps, which feature the namesake Amazonian fish marinated in anticucho miso. The seco de paiche, an Amazonian fish stew with cilantro black beer sauce and pallares, is equally intriguing.
Unique flavors, particularly those from the Amazon, are another big focus. The sea bass tiradito includes sacha inchi oil, which is made from the indigenous Amazon River Pracazi tree, while the tacacho is a traditional Amazonian dish that comprises muddled plantains, smoked pancetta, and jalapeno sauce. From uni shrimp toast to risotto with blood clams and sea urchin, the menu offers endless flavor combinations that warrant multiple visits.
The space itself comprises an open kitchen, chef’s tables, a saltwater tank with fresh lobsters, and an expansive patio separated by retractable glass doors. Blue tones are prominent throughout the dining area, while polished concrete floors, reclaimed wood siding, and decorative elements create a modern but warm atmosphere. 13488 Maxella Ave., Marina del Rey, 310-893-6200
A|X Neon Carnival at Coachella
Celebrities gather to celebrate Armani Exchange’s new color flash watches and sunglasses.
April 15, 2013
The fourth annual A|X Armani Exchange Neon Carnival took place April 13, 2013 in the Coachella Valley, celebrating the launch of Armani Exchange’s new color flash watch and sunglass collections. Taking place at the Tradition Aviation Airport Hangar, the event offered a variety of signature carnival games and rides for guests to enjoy.
The fourth annual A|X Armani Exchange Neon Carnival took place April 13, 2013 in the Coachella Valley, celebrating the launch of Armani Exchange’s new color flash watch and sunglass collections. Taking place at the Tradition Aviation Airport Hangar, the event offered a variety of signature carnival games and rides for guests to enjoy.
The fourth annual A|X Armani Exchange Neon Carnival took place April 13, 2013 in the Coachella Valley, celebrating the launch of Armani Exchange’s new color flash watch and sunglass collections. Taking place at the Tradition Aviation Airport Hangar, the event offered a variety of signature carnival games and rides for guests to enjoy.
The fourth annual A|X Armani Exchange Neon Carnival took place April 13, 2013 in the Coachella Valley, celebrating the launch of Armani Exchange’s new color flash watch and sunglass collections. Taking place at the Tradition Aviation Airport Hangar, the event offered a variety of signature carnival games and rides for guests to enjoy.
The fourth annual A|X Armani Exchange Neon Carnival took place April 13, 2013 in the Coachella Valley, celebrating the launch of Armani Exchange’s new color flash watch and sunglass collections. Taking place at the Tradition Aviation Airport Hangar, the event offered a variety of signature carnival games and rides for guests to enjoy.
The fourth annual A|X Armani Exchange Neon Carnival took place April 13 in the Coachella Valley, celebrating the launch of Armani Exchange’s new color flash watch and sunglass collections. Celebrity guests like Vanessa Hudgens, Julianne Hough, Jessica Szohr, and Emma Roberts arrived wearing the brand’s designs, while some of Hollywood’s most elite actors like Clint Eastwood and Leonardo DiCaprio also made an appearance.
The brightly lit event took place at the Tradition Aviation Airport Hangar, offering a variety of signature carnival games and rides for guests to enjoy. Attendees like Kirsten Dunst and Garrett Hedlund played a dart game sponsored by A|X in order to win their own color flash watches. Meanwhile, others like Maria Menounos, Kellan Lutz, and Josh Henderson took to the bumper cars, the Ferris wheel, and the giant slide. DJ Jesse Marco, DJ JUS-SKU, and DJ Kayper spun tunes on the dance floor, while SVEDKA debuted their latest flavors—strawberry colada and orange cream pop—with a variety of specialty cocktails.
Graham Nash at Morrison Hotel Gallery
The iconic rocker reveals a photography retrospective in WeHo.
April 15, 2013
This Wednesday (April 17), the Morrison Hotel Gallery will open “Visual Harmony,” a photography retrospective by one of rock’s greatest legends—Graham Nash. Housed within The Sunset Marquis Hotel, the showcase will offer a rare opportunity to see some of the music industry’s most well-known personalities from a completely new perspective.
Nash’s work spans several decades, ranging from intimate behind-the-scenes moments on tour to more abstract pieces that demonstrate his supreme talents as a photographer. With placards explaining each photograph, the exhibit provides a glimpse at Nash’s personal history through a sojourn in Sag Harbor, but also captures epic musical collaborations between the likes of Johnny Cash and Joni Mitchell. Some of the displayed shots are being shown for the first time, though the gallery does have a selection of Nash’s more popular prints as well. Each print is numbered and signed for eager collectors to purchase.
Nash discovered photography at age 11, even before he picked up a guitar. While the triumphs of the two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Famer’s musical career are well-known, he is equally immersed in the art world. In 1990, he established Nash Editions, a printing company that has since been honored at the National Museum of American History for contributions to the digital printing world. “Visual Harmony” will remain on display at the Morrison Hotel Gallery until April 30. 1200 Alta Loma Rd., West Hollywood, 310-881-6025
Photographs ©Graham Nash/courtesy of Morrison Hotel Gallery
L.K.Bennett Opens at the Beverly Center
Luxury British brand debuts its first boutique in California.
April 15, 2013
L.K.Bennett, the luxury women’s line out of London, opened their first California store within West Hollywood’s Beverly Center April 2. Although best known for their stylish shoes, the brand has since expanded to include elegant collections of ready-to-wear clothing, handbags, and accessories, all of which are available at the new location. The store’s interior perfectly mirrors the brand’s subtle sophistication, embracing a ‘50s-era design with soft pink walls playing against beige woodwork, vintage-inspired furnishings, and plush wool carpeting. Custom mirrored display units house each item in the collection to allow for easy browsing.
The new location debuted with a reception April 11, hosted by style personality Elycia Rubin, author of Frumpy to Foxy in 15 Minutes. While Rubin marked her favorite items from L.K.Bennett’s collection, guests were treated to complimentary eyebrow shaping from Anastasia Beverly Hills and manicures by Creative Nail Design. Event-goers also enjoyed fresh juices and hors d’oeuvres by Paleta Catering, while taking in a casual presentation of the Spring/Summer 2013 L.K.Bennett collection. A portion of the evening’s proceeds went to Hike It Up, a charity that supports the Studio City community with innovative improvement projects. 8500 Beverly Blvd., 7th Fl., West Hollywood, 323-825-9891
photography by Brian To of Wenn Photography
What We’re Reading
Best afternoon tea services in the city, Jackie Robinson’s LA life, Janie Bryant's abode….
April 12, 2013
The movie 42 examines Jackie Robinson (pictured with Branch Rickey) as a Brooklyn Dodger, but LA Mag looks at his early years growing up in LA.
We love that LA’s art scene consistently attracts unique artistic styles. Case in point: prolific Japanese artist Takashi Murakami is in town for a new show at Culver City gallery Blum & Poe on April 13. The Daily Beast has a behind-the-scenes look at the artist, who has collaborated with Louis Vuitton and Kanye West in the past. [The Daily Beast]
If you’re still looking for something to do this weekend, Eater LA just released their favorite spots for afternoon tea in Los Angeles. We can’t stop drooling over the decadent small plates at the Hotel Bel Air…. [Eater LA]
Speaking of weekend thrills, if you’ve ever wondered how the cast of Mad Men looks so dapper all the time, it’s thanks to costume designer Janie Bryant. Elle Decor gets an inside look at her Hollywood home—but don’t expect it to be all mid-century modern furnishings. [Elle Decor]
Meanwhile, the movie 42, which examines baseball great Jackie Robinson, opens today. While early reviews have been great, we’re more intrigued by Los Angeles Magazine’s look at how Robinson’s early life in LA shaped his sports career. [LA Mag]
Speaking of legends, the Rolling Stones have set their Los Angeles tour date—sort of. May 2 is still tentative due to pending NHL and NBA playoff runs, proving that even the Rolling Stones are subject to the Staples Center’s busy schedule. [LA Times]
Photography by Curt Gunther/Keystone/Archive Photos/Getty Images
Dinner Plans: The Larchmont
High-end dining experience with a French influence comes to Larchmont Village.
April 12, 2013
Newly launched resto The Larchmont brings fine dining to Larchmont Village in the space formerly known as The Larchmont Grill. While the exterior remained intact, owners Mathew Cape, Spoon Singh, and Robert Kass refurbished the interior to create a more formal dining experience complete with whitewashed walls, white tablecloths, and a cozy fireplace. An outdoor patio remains an alluring dining option, while a new event space upstairs is promising for larger parties.
The menu was designed by executive chef Cody Diegel of LA’s own Magnolia and Caulfield’s, alongside consulting chef Don Gragg, who is known for stints at Chez Panisse and Gramercy Tavern. Food offerings progress from smaller sharable plates to more substantial entrees, with mostly French influences and a focus on fresh seasonal produce. Standout starters include a refreshing kale salad with pistachios, kabocha squash, farro, blood oranges, and grana, and a crispy yet light braised pork belly cooked with sweet onions, king oyster mushrooms, and sherry. Entrees comprise a chicken prepared “under a brick,” duck confit with lentils, and a Niman Ranch steak served with marrow butter and superb hand-cut French fries.
Complement your fare by pairing it with a glass or bottle from the wine list, which features a variety of unique French labels. The specialty drink menu—the brainchild of Nathan Oliver—also offers libations of note. 5750 Melrose Ave., Larchmont Village, 323-464-4277
