by Dennis Richardson
Cowritten by Anthony Stafford
(Watch a video tour, here.)
Rated #1 by Thrillist (and rightfully so!), California is home to an often overlooked city where natural AC blows nearly year-round, an expansive shoreline and the sound of crashing waves are within earshot, and laidback seaside town vibes are endless. That city, left out of many destination conversations, is Oxnard. Sure, there are vineyards and farmlands not too far away, and many people from the area don’t have a ton of praise for the place. However Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach – part of Curio Collection by Hilton – as unfamiliar as it may sound to some, is looking to turn a new page for Oxnard’s future, reputation, and reception in the world.
Courtesy of Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach
The Golden State is no stranger to stellar resorts and hotels with plentiful views consisting of deserts, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean, but it is rare to come across an all-suite resort right on the beach. And when it comes to activities– whether in the urban sprawl of endless energy or nestled in the valley of a rural town– travelers rest assure. Zachari Dunes checks both the boxes for a unique seaside, extended vacation feel, and access to everything outdoors (and indoors!) that California is known for.
A sister property to The Pierside in Santa Monica, Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach is about an hour north of Los Angeles and just south of Santa Barbara. The resort underwent a renovation and rebranding, turning a new leaf for itself and the local community. Incredibly, Zachari Dunes captures the very essence of an adults-only resort, yet successfully caters to children with its plentiful amenities and dining offerings. During our weekend visit, we met with Zachari Dunes’ Director of Marketing, Ali Fedrau, who provided a guided tour. She gave us deep insight into the area’s and resort’s history, newest amenities and offerings, its geological significance, and why Oxnard deserves to be included in travel destination conversations moving forward.
Amenities, Activities, Accolades, and Accommodations
After its October 2022 debut, this coastal resort offers a true taste of the California lifestyle, blending spacious accommodations, gourmet dining, and immersive adventures from the beach to the mountains. The resort features 250 expansive suites – most with ocean views – a grand beachfront lobby, and modern public spaces. And space – or rather a lack of it – is one thing you will never complain about no matter where you are on the property!
Photo courtesy of Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach
Surprisingly, Zachari Dunes is Southern California’s only all-suite oceanfront resort. It offers guests a luxurious blend of comfort and coastal charm, with more than 600 square feet of living space, and view options ranging from oceanfront and beach views to garden and pool views. Accommodations vary from one king or two queen suites, featuring a separate bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, a living area with a sofa bed, a dining space, wet bar, and a second bathroom. Most suites also offer outdoor balconies or patios, ideal for taking in the stunning surroundings or sunbathing with a little privacy. For larger groups, the presidential suites can host up to six guests, boasting two bedrooms, spacious living areas, and ample outdoor space, all thoughtfully designed to mirror the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. During our visit, we learned that even during the busy season, the resort is never uncomfortably cramped – and that’s all thanks to the amount of space Zachari Dunes allows visitors to throughout the resort.
Beyond its stunning suites, Zachari Dunes offers relaxation and adventure in various forms. Tropical pathways that wind through the resort’s central courtyard plaza snake their way to the beach where there is virtually endless space to play, run, or just soak up sun. Active guests can enjoy the fitness center, tennis and basketball courts, or take advantage of the spa, Float Mandalay Beach, where rejuvenating treatments like sea stone massages and hydrating coconut milk rituals take place. For adventure seekers, Henry’s Sundries and Gear Rental provides everything from bikes and surfboards to hoverboards and GoPros, ensuring guests can fully experience the resort’s nine-acre coastal paradise however they choose. In addition to all of this, the resort is the closest in the state with access to the channel islands, making for incredibly unique escapades that you don’t have to travel much further for. On top of expeditions to the islands, sometimes it’s nice to watch them in the distance. Every inch of the property sits photogenically on display, making weddings, birthdays, business meetings, and the like that much more memorable.
Guests can enjoy the heated pool, massive hot tub, cabanas, and fire pits, as well as locally inspired dining options, including the Ox & Ocean signature restaurant, Sugar Beats, the outdoor airstream for quick bites, and DIVE offers a sports bar and gaming lounge mashup. Plus, if you’re the type that needs a bit of scheduling for motivation, the resort has a weekly calendar of activities, including yoga, beach volleyball, scavenger hunts, sand sculptures, movies, and so much more. Additional amenities include a gear rental shop for almost every imaginable outdoor activity, the luxury Float Mandalay Beach spa, and versatile event spaces for meetings and gatherings. Notably, Zachari Dunes was recognized by USA Today’s “Readers’ Choice Awards 2024” as the “#1 Best New Hotel in the U.S.,” and even more recently in the “Top 10 Resorts in Southern California” by Condé Nast.
The Joy in Dining (and Playing) at the Dunes
In celebration of these accomplishments, the resort recently launched a new dining club membership, “Dining at the Dunes.” This membership offers exclusive deals on its sustainable and locally-sourced seasonal cuisine, as well as discounts and offers on other amenities and experiences. For a $229 annual fee, the membership benefits include:
- 15% off regularly priced food and beverage at Ox & Ocean, Sugar Beats and DIVE, excluding specialty dinners
- 15% off nightly best available suite rates
- Four (4) single day pool access passes per membership
- 15% off private pool cabana rental rates
- 15% off spa services an on-site Float Luxury Spa Mandalay Beach
The entrance to signature restaurant Ox and Ocean.
Ox and Ocean offers an elevated dining experience that seamlessly brings together land and sea. Its spaces transition from indoors to outdoors, and we were even treated to live music during the summer nights. Under the leadership of Director of Food & Beverage and level three Sommelier Ricardo Cubias, the menu highlights the wide ranging and diverse bounty of California.
Ox and Ocean’s menu features local produce and seafood sourced directly from Oxnard’s plains and coast. The cuisine celebrates American, Hispanic, and Asian influences, adding playful twists to classic dishes, and standouts include beer-battered fish tacos with chipotle aioli, a Mission-style burrito, and more inventive offerings like delicata squash with kale pesto and turmeric yogurt. In tribute to Oxnard’s famous strawberry season, the dessert menu includes an incredibly delicious signature strawberry hand pie, made with locally sourced berries, McConnell’s vanilla bean ice cream, and dulce de leche. The restaurant’s expansive indoor-outdoor bar complements the dining experience with a thoughtfully curated selection of craft cocktails, local beers, and regional wines.
For a more casual, yet quintessentially Californian experience, Sugar Beats, the resort’s outdoor Airstream trailer, serves locally roasted coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and fresh pastries in the morning to fuel the day’s adventures. Afternoons are dedicated to the venue morphing into a seafood shack, offering beachside vibes with local beers, canned wines, cocktails, adult popsicles, fresh-caught seafood, and even classic kid favorites. Guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while sampling California-inspired handheld dishes.
The DIVE lounge provides an ideal space for those seeking either entertainment or relaxation. The lounge features a fully stocked game room with a pool table, shuffleboard, and vintage arcade games, along with comfortable seating and multiple televisions broadcasting live sports. Guests can also enjoy craft cocktails, making DIVE a lively gathering spot for friendly competition and unwinding in style. Plentiful seating means there are likely many fun and eventful occasions in store for families to connect in meaningful and engaging ways. A great place for socializing and decorated beautifully, we wanted to spend even more time at DIVE just for the atmosphere alone.
A New Chapter in History
Stepping foot onto this spectacular property immediately transports guests to a time and place from long ago, with glimpses of the past. From the property’s architecture with its grand bell tower, to the story-telling photos on display in the lobby, Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach has a story to share with anyone willing to listen or look.
The history of the region is deeply woven into the lifestyle, design, and aesthetics of Zachari Dunes, including the origin of its name. The resort pays homage to Henry Oxnard, who was a prominent sugar mogul from the early 1900s. Oxnard, who had ambitious plans to cultivate and process sugar beets along California’s Central Coast, intended to name the settlement after the Greek word for sugar, “Zachari.” In recognition of his vision, the resort adopts this name, honoring the area’s rich agricultural heritage and its connection to the sugar industry.
Just as time has given way to the very dunes along Mandalay Beach and the property’s transformation over the years, a long legacy has now connected to a new and modern vision. The resort will continue its marathon of page turning to traverse an endless journey of change. While a place can undergo a massive renovation, the completion date of that work is merely a checkpoint along the path toward an even brighter future and continued improvements. Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach speaks up for a city that has remained overlooked for far too long, and its team has taken all the right steps to modernize, recalibrate, and refocus on what so many have missed out on.
Oxnard is one of California’s hidden gems, and with Zachari Dunes’ recent accolades, it’s only a matter of time until the city receives the attention it’s due. Travelers from near and far are discovering Zachari Dunes’ natural beauty, whimsical charm, and endless potential as a key destination worth exploring. Its incredible land and sea options at Ox and Ocean, Sugar Beats, and DIVE provide a familiarity that we all look for, yet a uniqueness that can’t be found just anywhere. The resort’s surplus of space garners feelings of luxury, exclusivity, and privacy in California’s only all-suite oceanfront property. And a world of activities and exploration that only California is famous for await, tucked away at Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach.
Learn more and book your stay here. Follow Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach on Instagram here. For a roundup of all events taking place through December, read on.
Bonus: Scheduled Events for the End of The Year
Along with the weekly calendar activities, here are the special events guests can look forward to participating in from October through December:
October 7th – October 13th: Wine & Dine Week
A week-long celebration of wine pairings and gourmet dishes, this event takes place at Ox and Ocean. Highlights will include wines from Napa Valley and Sonoma county, with specially crafted wine pairing menus each evening.
Every Thursday in October: Paella Night (5 pm – 9 pm)
Join Ox and Ocean every Thursday evening in October for a special Paella Night. Enjoy a variety of delicious paella dishes prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. This weekly event will offer guests a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Let me know if there are any additional details or adjustments needed!
October 31st: Halloween Party (7 pm – 11 pm)
Bring yourself and your kids in costume to receive a 15% discount on your food bill (not including alcohol). Guests can expect specially themed cocktails and appetizers at Ox and Ocean with live music and entertainment.
Every Saturday in October: Pumpkin Carving Contest @ Sugar Beats (10 am – 12 pm)
Festive, interactive, and perfect for families and friends, join the Zachari Dunes team at Sugar Beats every Saturday morning in October for a fun pumpkin carving contest. Guests can show off their creative skills and compete for a chance to win exciting prizes. Everyone is invited to enjoy breakfast and lunch while participating in the contest.
November 10th: Fall Harvest Dinner (6 pm – 9 pm)
Guests can visit Ox and Ocean for a special dinner menu featuring seasonal ingredients and dishes, including a three-course meal with optional wine pairings. Reservations are required for the Fall Harvest Dinner.
November 28th: Thanksgiving Feast (1 pm – 5 pm)
Guests can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings, taking place in The Plaza. The menu includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. With reservations required, this Thanksgiving feast can’t be missed!
November 28th – December 31: Hot Chocolate Nights
Enjoy a cozy Hot Chocolate Night in the Zachari Dunes lobby starting on Thanksgiving and continuing until December 31st. Savor a variety of gourmet hot chocolate flavors and toppings in a festive atmosphere. Available from 6 pm – 8 pm.
December 7th: Free Holiday Wine Tasting (4 pm – 6 pm)
The event will allow guests to sample a selection of festive wines perfect for the holiday season. The selection features wines from California and beyond, taking place at Ox and Ocean.
December 14th: Gingerbread House Workshop (2 pm – 4 pm)
This fun, family-friendly event will let guests decorate their own gingerbread houses, with all supplies and festive treats included! Taking place at the Zachari Dunes Plaza, this event requires reservations and is sure to be a festive cherry on top that everyone can enjoy creating (and eating)!
December 24th: Christmas Eve Dinner (6 pm – 9 pm)
Guests are invited to Celebrate Christmas Eve with a special gourmet dinner at Ox and Ocean. This dinner features a multi-course menu with holiday favorites. Reservations are required.
December 31st New Year’s Eve Gala (8 pm – 1 am)
Ring in the New Year with a grand gala event! Guests are invited to the Zachari Dunes Plaza for a lavish dinner, live music, and a midnight champagne toast to kick off 2025. Reservations are required for this exciting evening event that can’t be missed.
by Dennis Richardson
The latest launch from BRĒZ, the premier functional beverage brand known for crafting experiences that elevate everyday life, is here—and it’s better than ever!
Introducing BRĒZ FLOW, a reformulated beverage designed to support both mind and body with a powerful blend of natural ingredients. Featuring Lion’s Mane, a renowned mushroom for cognitive support, FLOW is crafted to help you achieve a motivated, clear, and uplifted “flow state.”
Credit: BRĒZ
After listening closely to customer feedback, the BRĒZ team uncovered a key insight: while the original Lion’s Mane-infused blend was effective for many, about 60-70% of users didn’t feel its full potential. Never settling for less than perfection, the team went back to the drawing board, and the result is FLOW—a new and improved version of their best-selling beverage. Now featuring an elevated dose of Lion’s Mane, paired with black seed oil, cacao, and L-Theanine, this blend is designed to supercharge your mood, motivation, and cognitive performance.
“Find Your Flow”
FLOW is lightly sparkling with refreshing notes of Italian lemon and elderflower, and packs a powerful punch with 2200mg of Lion’s Mane fruiting bodies, carefully balanced with black seed oil, cacao, and L-Theanine for a truly uplifting experience. With just 35 calories and 8g of natural sugar, it’s perfect for a mindful boost at any time of day—no special occasion required!
You can enjoy BRĒZ FLOW starting at $24.50 per 6-pack with a subscription, or $35 per 6-pack à la carte. It’s available for direct-to-consumer delivery through DrinkBREZ.com across most U.S. states. Every BRĒZ product is made with natural ingredients and innovative adaptogens to enhance your day with purpose and efficiency.
Whether you’re looking for clarity, motivation, or just a refreshing pick-me-up, BRĒZ FLOW is here to help you find your flow!
by Dennis Richardson
Beverly Hills, CA – Contemporary menswear brand Milli Point Two debuts its RED drop; a cohesive 12-piece collection of standout silhouettes in red (and blue) leather garments, built upon the foundation laid by the inaugural ‘Day One’ collection, marking a vibrant evolution in Milli Point Two’s creative direction, and highlighting the brand’s fearless approach to design. The ‘RED’ drop is an initial step from inside the walls of the European label’s recently launched flagship on Canon Drive (Beverly Hills, CA) assembly. Despite its name, the color palette is led by color-block’ esque etchings of red and blue, symbolizing the primary colors of America. The bold palette also acts invasively as a representation of the brand’s intervention into the colder hues of 90s-inspired mise-en-scène. Designs are deliberately raunchy with a ‘rockstar meets grunge’ attitude. The RED collection will be available to shop by appointment at the brand’s flagship 333 N. Canon Dr. Beverly Hills, (CA) 90210, to make an appointment click here.
Credit: Milli Point Two
Some of the RED hero styles include the: Flocker raincoat, a luxurious take on a classic packable raincoat design, oversized and made from 100% Italian nylonide silk / Dissector jacket, a heavy premium leather trucker jacket ft. a boxy oversized shape with a prominent crop / Anthea pant, a leather streamlined bootcut pant inspired by classic boxing attire, featuring a silk waist-line insert that resembles boxing shorts that protrude from the pant waistline, the pant features elongated back pockets with removable patch, and the Netherfront leather vest, a leather heavyweight full-grain function-meets-luxury fabric, all clad in blocks of vibrant red and blue, featuring the label’s signature ‘3D’ finish, to name a few.
Credit: Milli Point Two
The accompanying RED campaign is heavily inspired by every raving and raging subculture from the 90s. For the shoot itself, the central inspirational framework was 90s Wall Street, the golden years of power suiting and office extravagance. The visuals were shot in a ‘stereotypical 90s office’ setting, with its characters hinting at a love/lust triangle scenario, that puts a lifelong friendship to the test. In the flurry of tobacco smoke, hardwood executive tables and analog printers, stand the otherworldly red-blue garments, striking through the narrative, leaving a taste as though the characters come from a parallel future, while still trying to assimilate to the frenetic life of the 90s.
“There was a lot of thinking, rethinking and (oftentimes) overthinking involved before we noticed that the true solution was right in front of our eyes. It lies in everything that we’ve done so far, just brought up to the next level considering fabrics, color finishes, and cuts, with a few surprises along the way. The RED collection symbolizes our first venture into a series of experimentational episodes on our base aesthetic, as well as a deep dive into the anatomies of our signature pieces.” –Tomislav/Tomo (Founder / Designer / Milli Point Two).
About Milli Point Two
MILLI POINT TWO is an independent advanced contemporary fashion brand founded by the Croatian-born design-duo Anthea Bebek & Tomislav Trcak, who are also at the helm of the brand’s creative efforts. MILLI POINT TWO is a menswear brand, although it emphasizes a unisex approach. It offers a variety of special-cut and highly curated garments that include Japanese denim & Italian leather outerwear & trousers, silk shirting, and t-shirts & sweatshirts of highest quality jersey cottons. The brand is heavily focused on delivering a blend of unprecedented traditional Italian manufacturing and outlandish, oversized, and eclectic silhouettes, often adorned with motifs created in collaboration with various independent artists.
The clothing itself is conceptualized to be very limited and of uncompromised quality, with a design philosophy that allows the focal pieces to truly speak for themselves in terms of their unique narrative, design, and meticulous attention to detail. Milli aims to deliver small, but highly effective collections with a strong technical foundation and a unique yet sound voice.
Schedule an appointment to visit Milli Point Two here. Learn more about Milli Point Two at their website: https://millipointtwo.co/
by June Miller Richards
Programming will Recognize, Celebrate, and Uplift Indigeneity in the Arts
On Monday, October 14, Idyllwild Arts will celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day with a daylong special public program designed to educate and uplift the Native American community. Guest artists, scholars and performers will share a vast array of knowledge based on traditional philosophies. The overall goal is to reconcile Native American history with United States history through programming that supports calls to action for recognition and reconciliation.
The day will be headlined by the Delbert Anderson Quartet (DAQ), led by Diné jazz trumpet artist, composer, and educator Delbert Anderson. The DAQ revives the improvised sounds of Diné songs, blending them with jazz, funk and hip-hop. Anderson’s compositions are inspired by Diné Bikéyah, Navajo Nation landscapes, historical events, and the desire to preserve and educate about Diné history. His achievements have garnered recognition including multiple awards from Chamber Music America, the Cultural Capital Fellowship from the First Peoples Fund, and the Jazz Road Program at South Arts. Delbert Anderson recently performed at the Kennedy Center and has gained national recognition with recent feature coverage in The New York Times, SF Gate, and NPR, to name a few.
One of the highlights of the Indigenous Peoples Day event is the emphasis on the Idyllwild Arts community being good neighbors. Each year, Idyllwild Arts welcomes students from Sherman Indian School in Riverside, California to join the IA student body for a fun day of learning.
This phenomenal day of education and fun is made possible by generous learning partners such as the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Augustine Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Cahuilla Band of Indians and an anonymous foundation.
WHAT:
Daylong Programming
IDYLLWILD ARTS CAMPUS – 52500 Temecula Road, Idyllwild, CA 92549
9:00 am: Welcoming
The day of celebration will commence with a welcome by:
- Pamela Jordan, President, Idyllwild Arts Foundation
- Shaliyah Ben, Executive Director, Native American Arts Center
- Michael Madrigal (Mountain Cahuilla), President, Native American Land Conservancy
9:30 am – 12:00 pm: Morning Presentations
- Students, staff, faculty and the public are welcome to join two public presentations, including the Delbert Anderson Jazz Quartet.
12:00 pm: Complimentary Indigenous Foods Luncheon with Music Performance
- Outdoor luncheon will feature Indigenous foods, including crowd-favorite frybread and a high-energy DJ set by Idyllwild Arts Academy alum Kino Benally (Diné), also known as DJ Béeso.
1:30 – 4:00 pm: Glassblowing Demonstration
- Public open-studio visit with Hopi glass artists Ramson Lomatewama and Ayen Talashoma. Guests are encouraged to make their own glass flower!
- IA Indigenous Peoples Club will be selling artwork to support this year’s club activities!
HARVEY HOUSE – 54420 S. Circle Drive, Idyllwild, CA 92549
6:00 – 6:45 pm:
- Delbert Anderson Quartet “11th Note” live recording, “The Long Walk: 1674 Days.” A commemorative composition for instruments in any key to acknowledge the forced relocation of Diné people in 1864.
6:45 – 7:15 pm
- Flute Music by Randy Kemp (Choctaw, Muscogee Creek, and Euchee) of Artificial Red.
7:30 – 8:30 pm
- The Delbert Anderson Quartet.
For the full event schedule, please visit https://idyllwildarts.org/indigenous-peoples-day/
WHEN: Monday, October 14, 2024
WHERE: Idyllwild Arts Academy (52500 Temecula Road, Idyllwild CA 92549) and Harvey House in Idyllwild (54420 S. Circle Drive, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549)
by Lucy Crivelli Frey
Art has always been a source of inspiration for me, but experiencing it live in such a beautiful environment was something else entirely. Recently, I had the pleasure of attending the kickoff of Secret Walls’ “The Art of Competition” tour in Los Angeles. From the moment I arrived, I could sense the excitement as other art enthusiasts and curious newcomers got together in support of the local artist community. The space was transformed into a gallery where multiple artists, like Mr. B Baby, Blue The Great, Ashley Dreyfus, Fabez, and UPENDO created murals along the walls of the compound. The creativity, me enamoro!
For those who might be new to Secret Walls, it’s more than just live art battles, it’s a global art movement that has been empowering artists since 2006. During these “battles” artists are given a limited time to create their best work, and the audience or a panel of judges decides the winner. While it is a competition you can see the friendly rivalry but overall the mutual respect among artists.
Keeping the Creativity Flowing
Now, coming off the success of Secret Walls’ massive first tour, “Support Your Local Artist,” top artists will once again go head-to-head in front of a live audience as they battle for the winner’s crown – recently announced for their second North American tour, “The Art of Competition,” launching this fall. Sponsored by Posca + Monster Energy Ultra, this year, each battle also features surprise musical performances, DJs, limited-edition merch, workshops, and more.
While the kickoff event was just the start to “The Art of Competition” Tour, it’s taking this concept to cities across the U.S., including Los Angeles, Denver, Phoenix, New York, Chicago, and more. Each stop features a different lineup of local artists, ensuring that every event has its own unique sauce. During the tour they will host multiple activities that will make the experience a celebration of creatividad. From live performances and DJ sets to exclusive merch and Secret Walls Academy workshops, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re an artist looking to learn new techniques or excited to give your support, the tour will be something you don’t want to miss.
Attending a Secret Walls event is more than just watching art being created; it’s about being part of a vibrant community that celebrates creativity in all its forms. It’s inspiring to see how art can bring people together.
I walked away from the kickoff, feeling a new sense of admiration and motivation. It was a powerful reminder of why I love art and the impact it can have on our lives. If you’re in any of the tour cities, I highly recommend experiencing Secret Walls firsthand. It’s an event that promises not only to entertain but also to inspire and connect like minded people.
Bigger and Better
With sounds by DJ Rareform, guests experienced live art as they entered the Secret Walls venue and were treated with food, gifts and libations by Monster Energy Ultra. The action-packed evening also included a Q&A hosted by Secret Walls podcaster and content creator Nick Major. This year’s tour promises to be Secret Walls’ biggest and best ever as the competition crisscrosses the country, entertaining and wowing audiences while connecting and inspiring artists with a range of amazing programming over two to three days in each city.
“We’re thrilled to bring back ‘The Art of Competition’ for a second edition,” says Terry Guy, Secret Walls Founder. “This tour isn’t just about the thrill of the competition; it’s about uniting artists and communities through creativity and passion. We can’t wait to see what this year’s tour brings!”
And I also can’t wait to see where the tour goes next!
To catch a Secret Walls battle near you and learn more about the “Art of Competition” tour dates and tickets, visit the Secret Walls website or follow them on social media for the latest updates. Tickets tend to sell out quickly, so be sure to secure yours early. For tickets, go to: https://secretwalls.world/pages/tour
About Secret Walls
Secret Walls is revolutionizing the art world with its exhilarating live paint battles that captivate audiences and showcase the extraordinary talent of artists from around the globe. This one-of-a-kind event brings together creativity, competition, and community in a high-energy showdown that leaves audiences awestruck. With events held worldwide, Secret Walls has become a global phenomenon, attracting established and emerging artists alike. It provides a platform for diverse talents to showcase their skills, gain recognition, and connect with a vibrant community of art enthusiasts.
About Monster Energy
Based in Corona, California, Monster Energy is the leading marketer of energy drinks and alternative beverages. Refusing to acknowledge the traditional, Monster Energy supports the scene. Whether motocross, off-road, NASCAR, MMA, BMX, surf, snowboard, ski, skateboard, eSports or the rock and roll lifestyle, Monster Energy is a brand that believes in authenticity and the core of what its sports, athletes, gamers and musicians represent. More than a drink, it’s the way of life lived by athletes, bands, believers, and fans. See more about Monster Energy including all of its drinks at www.monsterenergy.com.
by Dennis Richardson
In Partnership with The Pokémon Company International, the Festival’s Largest Event To-Date will Celebrate Creation, Collaboration, and Community.
Bigger & Better
Los Angeles, CA – Family Style Food Festival, the first-ever festival at the intersection of food and streetwear with a heavy hitting, curated lineup of the best chefs, restaurants, brands and entertainment will return on September 28th at The Los Angeles State Historic Park, joining forces with the leading convergence culture media juggernaut, Complex, for the biggest iteration of the most hyped food festival to-date.
Courtesy: Complex
Hosted by Kerwin Frost and in partnership with The Pokémon Company International, Family Style will bring together the best chefs, restaurants and brands to create limited, one-of-a-kind collaborative food and merchandise items.
This year’s line-up serves up the hottest chefs and restaurants, including: Din Tai Fung, Kuya Lord, Bacanora, baroo, Regina’s Grocery, Kato, Porto’s Bakery, LaSorted’s Pizza x Philippe The Original, Katz’s Delicatessen, Henry’s Pizza, Carmen’s Empanadas, 715 Sushi, Rocky’s Matcha, Mariscos Jalisco, Camphor, Moo’s Craft Barbecue, Camel Coffee, Villa’s Tacos, Stella, Budonoki, Howlin’ Ray’s, Broad Street Oyster Co., Burritos La Palma, Trill Burgers, Avenue 26 Tacos, Amboy Quality Meats & Delicious Burgers, Jeni’s Ice cream, Two Hommés, Lasita, Open Market, 10/10Burger., Park’s BBQ, Ggiata, Holy Basil, Wanderlust Creamery, No Free Coffee, Alma’s Place, Creaminal, Cobi’s, Big B The Chef , 27 Club Coffee, Golden Dragon, Fat Dragon, Steep LA and Clink.
More Than Food
Family Style Food Festival will also present Alfredo’s, a concept by The Alchemist and Freddie Gibbs, as well as the return of Pikachu’s Electric Cafe- a boba tea concept.
Festival attendees can shop exclusive merchandise in collaboration with the most talked about brands in streetwear, including: Nike, Converse, Awake NY, Verdy, Kids of Immigrants, Better Gift Shop, Badfriend, Billionaire Boys Club, Compton Cowboys, holiday®, New Era, AM-FM Equipment, Anti Social Social Club, Crenshaw Skate Club, Tombogo, Who Jung Woo, Dickies, Ignored Prayers, Bricks & Wood, The Hundreds, Vandy The Pink , Market, Gardens & Seeds, Paisa Boys, Carrots, ISLA Project, Ghetto Rodeo, Art Community, Diet Starts Monday, tokyovitamin, DJ Javier, Daydreamer LA and Represent.
NEXT IN LINE, the cooking competition that highlights the next wave of culinary masterminds will also return, and for the first time, exclusively feature emerging female chefs. In partnership with RE:Her, five female chefs will compete head-to-head for the chance to win $10,000 to kickstart their career.
Creation, Community, Collaboration
The upcoming festival follows the recent acquisition of Family Style by Complex, the leading convergence culture media powerhouse and marks an exciting new chapter for the brand as it enters new markets and prepares to make its debut at ComplexCon 2024 in Las Vegas this November. As Complex’s new food-focused vertical, Family Style will deliver the latest news, content, and media within the culture and food space.
Courtesy: Complex
Purchase tickets to join the festivities on September 28th for a celebration of creation, collaboration, and community. Experience the best brands, restaurants, and chefs coming together to serve up limited, exclusive food and merchandise items that you won’t find anywhere else. Tickets are on sale now at FamilyStyleFest.com.
For more information about Family Style and to stay up-to-date on the latest drops, please visit www.familystylefest.com and www.complex.com or follow on social at @FamilyStyleFest and @Complex.
About Family Style
Founded in 2019 by Ben Shenassafar and Bobby Kim of The Hundreds and Miles Canares, Family Style is a family-oriented food festival that brings people together through the collective love of food. Known for mixing food and fashion, Family Style connects the best brands and the tastiest restaurants to create limited one-of-a-kind collaborative food and merchandise items exclusively available at our events.
About Complex
Complex is the definitive platform for global youth culture and music lifestyle. With a powerful media presence and a curated marketplace, Complex engages its audience through video, long-form text, and social media, reflecting and shaping the zeitgeist of convergence culture. Complex’s strategic partnership with Universal Music Group ensures unparalleled experiences and exclusive collaborations for passionate music fans.
by Dennis Richardson
If you’re still hanging on to summer and need some more party vibes before the season is long gone, there’s a block party taking place and you’re invited!
Puffco, the industry leader in high tech dabbing accessories is preparing a sunset sendoff that will surely end in a puff (or a few). On September 28th, Puffco will be hosting Puffcon, the annual block party celebration of culture, cannabis, food & music from 2-10pm in DTLA at Los Angeles Center Studios.
Courtesy: Puffco
Puffcon is open to anyone 21+ who owns a Peak Pro, Peak, or Proxy from Puffco. Attendees must enter a serial number during checkout and have the fully-assembled device upon entry to Puffcon.
On site, guests will enjoy performances from Action Bronson, Larry June, and more, as they check out the unique products & merch from 50+ vendors and glass artists. In addition, over two dozen of SoCal’s top street vendors will be onsite serving food for guests as they can learn more about the Puffco brand and the world of dabbing.
Puffcon will officially run from 2-10 pm (doors close at 9 pm), though guests are invited to arrive at any time during the day. Tickets can be purchased here. Learn more about Puffcon’s location, parking, and requirements here, and all there is to see and do for visitors to LA, here.
by Dennis Richardson
It’s the official announcement we all secretly wanted: Summer is extended! Gladstones recently declared the extension with the start of NFL and NCAA seasons, and with this announcement comes culinary excitement.
The Iconic Restaurant on the Beach Kicks-Off Extended Summer with NFL Game Day Menu, Reverse Happy Hour and other Delectable Specials
September 5, 2024– Grab your flip-flops, sunscreen and appetite because Gladstones is not ready to wave goodbye to summer. The legendary restaurant on the beach has announced that due to Southern California’s love for summer and all-around warmer climate, that summer has officially been extended until November 2024. The extended summer at Gladstones will kick-off with a new special NFL game day First & $10 menu, all night Happy Hour on Fridays, and a variety of promotions going forward throughout each week.
“Summer is a state of mind, and at Gladstones, that state of mind is here to stay,” said Jim Harris, chef partner and co-owner, Gladstones Legacy Group. “Thanks to the unbeatable SoCal weather on our side, we’re extending the summer spirit with a series of promotions, special menu items, NFL game day promos, and endless fun right on the shore.”
Courtesy: Gladstones
Today also marks the start of the NFL season. Gladstones will be featuring all the big games on 10 big TV screens across the inside and outside bar areas, creating the perfect spot for guests to enjoy game day at the beach!
The new First & $10 menu is served during game time NFL and NCAA and includes:
- Gladstones House Nachos– $10 for bean and cheese or add chicken, steak or shrimp for $10 each.
- Pyramid of the Pacific Foot High Nacho Tower – $75 (Feeds 4-6) a foot-high stacked tower featuring grilled chicken, shrimp, steak and topped with a cold-water Australian lobster tail.
- Potato Boats – $10 with bacon, cheddar, sour cream and chives.
- Chicken Wings– $10 per half dozen with multiple sauce options weekly.
- Craft beer pitchers – rotating each week – $15.
Every week, now through November, extended summer promotions include:
- Mussel Mondays – all you care to eat Clams & Mussels. $30 per person; $2 oysters after 4pm.
- Taco Tuesday – Fish or Shrimp tacos. $7 each.
- Wine Wednesday – 50% off wines by the bottle.
- Throwback Thursday – Celebrating 50 years on the coast. Your choice of a Classic Burger or Chicken Sandwich with a cold beer or glass of wine for $19.72.
- Festive Fridays Happy Hour – 3pm-close.
Since 1972, guests have flocked to Gladstone in Pacific Palisades for breathtaking sunsets and seafood-centric dishes. Today, the Gladstones Legacy Group has embarked on a new era with a California fresh approach, enhanced culinary experiences and innovative events, while maintaining its traditional charm.
For more information, please visit www.gladstones.com.
About Gladstones
Gladstones is Malibu’s historic beachside restaurant, featuring the freshest seafood, classic cocktails, and timeless California sunsets. Opened in 1972, Gladstones is a favorite destination of Los Angeles residents and visitors from around the world!
by Dennis Richardson
After a sizzling summer, Fogo De Chão isn’t turning down the heat, but rather turning it up! Just in time for fall, the famed and beloved steakhouse brand is introducing an assortment of new Fall Menu items that take advantage of the season’s bounty.
Credit: Fogo de Chão
Fogo de Chão, internationally renowned restaurant from Brazil known for its elevated churrasco dining experience, is inviting guests to experience new and seasonal menu innovations, available starting today at all U.S. locations. The new menu features the introduction of Fresh Whole Branzino, a first-ever for the brand. The Whole Branzino will be delivered fresh to all U.S. locations coast to coast and will be available Wednesday-Sunday for lunch, brunch and dinner.
The Whole Branzino can be added to any experience and is deboned then grilled on the churrasco grill over an open flame which blisters the skin, giving the fish a crisp and decadent flavor. The Branzino is then carved tableside and finished with extra virgin olive oil and sea salt. Other new menu additions include Bar Fogo small plates and fresh, seasonal soup and salads to the Market Table suited for all dietary lifestyles including pescatarian, keto, paleo, gluten-free and more.
The Season, Captured
A snapshot of the New Menu Innovations includes:
- Whole Branzino – Approximately 2lbs. fresh, mild white fish, blistered churrasco-style and served tableside with extra virgin olive oil, lemon and parsley. Serves 4 or more. Available Wednesday – Sunday.
- Roasted Bone Marrow – Center cut marrow served with crispy toasts and chimichurri.
- Caviar Brioche – Brioche toast topped with egg salad, Tobiko black roe and parsley.
- Roasted Apple & Butternut Squash Salad – Roasted butternut squash and Fuji apples drizzled with honey and topped with lime zest.
- Seasonal Fall Hummus – Fresh hummus blended with beets and tahini and topped with orange zest, pumpkin and sesame seeds and fresh herbs.
- Carrot Ginger Soup – Fresh carrots and ginger blended with coconut milk and fresh herbs. Vegan.
Fogo remains dedicated to giving back to its communities and helping to eliminate childhood hunger in America through its 10-year relationship with No Kid Hungry. Guests dining in-restaurant or those placing online to-go orders will have the opportunity to donate to No Kid Hungry. As a gesture of appreciation, for every $5 donation Fogo will offer guests a Dining Card valid for $25 off two Full Churrasco Dinners on their next visit.* (*Dining Cards valid Tuesday, September 24, 2024 through Saturday, November 16, 2024. $1 can help provide up to 10 meals for kids in need. Learn more athttp://www.nokidhungry.org/onedollar.)
With every $5 donated through this promotion, No Kid Hungry is able to provide 50 meals to children in need of nutritious meals. Additionally, Barry McGowan, Chief Executive Officer of Fogo de Chão, has joined No Kid Hungry’s CEO pledge to end summer hunger and increase the number of children receiving summer meals from 2.8 million to 30 million nationwide.
About Fogo de Chão
Fogo de Chão (fogo-dee-shown) is an internationally renowned restaurant from Brazil that elevates the culinary art of churrasco – the art of roasting high-quality cuts of meat over an open flame – into a cultural dining experience. Fogo is famed for its prix fixe Full Churrasco Experience that offers a continuous selection of premium cuts butchered daily by gaucho chefs, simply seasoned and grilled to create a craveable salty bark, then carved tableside. The naturally gluten-free Market Table offers a selection of seasonal salads, charcuterie, decadent fruit, superfoods and more. From celebratory to everyday occasions, Fogo provides selections for every daypart, including All-Day Happy Hour at Bar Fogo, Weekday Lunch, Dinner, and Weekend Brazilian Brunch. Guests can enhance their experience with offerings ranging from a shareable Wagyu New York Strip, South American wines, and more. For locations and to book a reservation to experience the fire of Fogo, visit fogo.com.
by Dennis Richardson
Kicking your feet up, watching the sun set, and sipping the finest wines probably sounds like a dream. Fortunately, it’s also a reality that’s within reach!
Temecula Winegrowers have geared up for one of the most exciting times of the year—California Wine Month, taking place this September. The much-anticipated harvest season is here, and they couldn’t be more excited to welcome visitors to Temecula Valley for a taste of the best wines Southern California has to offer. The month is filled with fantastic events and celebrations, and while CRUSH has come and gone, there is still even more on the horizon:
Photo Courtesy: Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association
CRUSH 2024 – The annual wine and culinary showcase of Temecula Valley Wineries
September 7 – 7:30 – 10pm
Hosted by Monte de Oro Winery, guests enjoyed culinary creations from 30+ participating Temecula wineries and local restaurants and caterers. It was a great opportunity to mix and mingle with winery owners and winemakers at this anticipated display of culinary delights and award-winning Temecula wines! This outdoor event included live entertainment with Jack French on acoustic guitar while guests enjoyed a walk-about tasting. CRUSH set the stage for what’s to come for the rest of September!
3rd Annual Great Taste of Europa Wine & Food Festival
September 15 – 11am – 4pm – purchase tickets
HERE | $149 per person
From the vineyards of Italy to the shores of Greece, immerse yourself in a world of flavor where every sip and bite tells a story. With over 50 exquisite European wines, a dedicated beer and spirits garden, and the opportunity to support local culinary talent, this is not just a festival—it’s a celebration of culture, community, and the finer things in life.
Photo Courtesy: Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association
22nd Annual Ponte Winery Grape Stomp
September 22 – 4-9pm – purchase tickets
HERE | $160 per person
Experience a spectacular harvest-Italian-themed dinner, music, dancing, and the Grape Stomp competition. Of course this means stomping grapes from our vineyard in a barrel with bare feet in a race while your partner fills up a wine bottle with the freshly squished juice.
In addition, Temecula Wine’s SIP Passport just got an upgrade! Guests can now purchase the SIP Reserve Wine Tasting Passport ($100 per person) which is good for 3 visits to any Reserve SIP participating wineries for a reserve wine tasting Monday-Friday (excluding holidays), and the current hours of pick-up are 11:00am – 5:00pm at Avensole Winery. Our classic SIP Passport is still available for purchase ($75 per person) and is good for 5 visits to any SIP participating wineries for a standard wine tasting Monday-Friday (excluding holidays), and the current hours of pick-up are 10:00am – 5:00pm at Fazeli Cellars.
If you’re a fan of the classic experience, the original *SIP Passport* is still available for $75 per person, offering five visits to SIP participating wineries for standard wine tastings, and also available Monday through Friday (excluding holidays). Pick-up is from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm at Fazeli Cellars. The full list of participating wineries for both SIP Passports can be viewed here.
Come sip, savor, and celebrate with in Temecula Valley this September with a farewell to Summer!
by Dennis Richardson
[Updated 9/12: Weekend times have been updated, moved from 11 am to 12 noon.]
Summer leaves us, but food comes to us in a decadent trend growing in popularity: food truck tours.
Coming soon to Los Angeles is the opportunity to indulge on the creations of a dynamic team, featuring some of the very best of Korea. Celebrated content creator and viral private chef, Rob Li (@broccoliRaab), is teaming up with two of the world’s leading Korean food brands, Jongga and O’Food, for a three day food truck pop up across Los Angeles.
Courtesy of Rob Li (@broccoliRaab)
Beginning on Friday, September 20th at Santa Monica’s 3rd Street Promenade the “JO’Bunsik” food truck will serve a variety of Korean street food-inspired dishes created by Chef Rob, exclusively for the pop-up using Jongga and O’Food products. Afterwards, the food truck will make its way to Westwood throughout the weekend.
This month, globally recognized Korean food brands, Jongga (the number one Kimchi Brand in Korea since 1987) and O’Food (pioneers of Korean food and flavor), will take to the streets of Los Angeles with a food truck tour that celebrates K-street food culture and their most beloved products. With weekend-long stops in Los Angeles (9/20-9/22) and New York City (9/27-9/29), the “JO’Bunsik” truck will give city dwellers a taste of authentic Korean snack culture with unexpected twists. Each day, guests can indulge in a delectable menu of Korean-inspired dishes, featuring recipes developed by Rob Li exclusively for this experience.
A proudly self-taught cook who has been regarded as “the internet’s favorite private chef,” Rob has taken social media by storm with his inventive and delicious recipes. He’ll now bring this inventive talent to the JO’Bunsik truck, where he’s curated a menu of unique, yet accessible Korean comfort food crafted with Jongga and O’Food’s top products that are available in the U.S. Guests can expect fun takes on street food classics such as shrimp pancakes with Jongga’s white kimchi, Jongga’s cheesy tteokbokki with corn and bacon, fried rice with Jongga’s Napa kimchi, and more!
In addition to Rob’s creations, which will be complimentary and available on a first come-first serve basis, guests can enjoy free samples of some of Jongga’s and O’Food’s most popular products, exciting merch giveaways and other special surprises. Join in on the culinary journey celebrating Korean culture and cuisine—while supplies last!
See the full weekend schedule for LA and the upcoming New York dates below:
- Friday, September 20th – Rob Li on-site this day only!
- Saturday, September 21st
- Time: 12pm – while supplies last
- Location: Westwood Village (900 Broxton Ave)
- Sunday, September 22nd
*Following their debut in Los Angeles, the JO’Bunsik truck will head to the Big Apple from Friday, September 27th – Sunday, September 29th.
Courtesy of O’Food and Jongga
About Jongga
Regarded as the number one producer of authentic kimchi in Korea since 1987, Jongga is credited as the first brand to commercialize packaged kimchi globally, as well as the leading Korean kimchi brand in the U.S. Jongga Kimchi products are made with quality ingredients, are plant-forward, gluten-free, probiotic-rich, and are available across the world. For more information, visit www.jonggausa.com and follow on Instagram @jongga_usa.
About O’Food
O’Food is a leading Korean food company that is committed to making people’s lives and food more enjoyable by adding a Korean twist to surprise the senses. As its gochujang and tteokbokki products currently hold the number one spots in their respective categories on Amazon in the U.S., O’Food’s popularity continues to rise in the market, with no signs of slowing down. For more information, visit www.ofoodusa.com and follow on Instagram @ofoodusa.
About Daesang Corporation
Founded in 1956, Daesang Corporation has been one of the world’s largest producers of fermented food products for over 60 years and has grown to be the global leading Korean based food company by operating global brands such as Jongga, and O’Food which provides sauce, ready-to-eat meals, and many more products. Headquartered in South Korea, the company has also manufacturing subsidiaries in Poland, United States, China, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Visit www.daesang.com/enfor more information.
by Dennis Richardson
On August 28th, TIP celebrated the 4-year anniversary of their agency in true style, surrounded by family, friends, and collaborators who have been part of their incredible journey. Hosted at Damian DTLA, the evening was nothing short of special, with every detail, from the food to the ambiance, perfectly crafted to create an unforgettable night.
A Venue That Sets the Bar
Damian DTLA not only provided a beautiful backdrop for the celebration, but elevated the entire experience with their hospitality and service. Whether it was the thoughtful décor or the seamless flow of the evening, Damian DTLA proved to be the ideal location for an anniversary dinner. For anyone looking to host their own event or corporate gathering, the venue offers a sophisticated space that brings people together. Plus, their catering service with CASA MATA, is a must-try for larger events or business functions.
With a culinary experience nothing short of delicious, Damian DTLA delivered a menu that captured the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine with modern finesse. Each course reflected their dedication to quality and innovation, leaving guests impressed. From savory starters to decadent desserts, every bite told a story of the passion and creativity behind their kitchen. The food wasn’t just sustenance, it was an experience that tied the night together.
A Toast to the Future
What’s a celebration without a toast? Thanks to Altos Tequila, the guests enjoyed two signature cocktails crafted especially for the evening: the ‘No Hay Mañana Margarita’ made with Altos’ own recipe, and the ‘Hazlo Hoy,’ a refreshing Pineapple + Tequila cocktail. Both drinks perfectly complemented the spirit of the night; bold, refreshing, and full of life that served as reminders that Tomorrow Isn’t Promised and we must dream and do today!
Photo Credit: @jayanyse @tip.supply
Altos helped elevate the cocktail bar and brought their ‘Olmeca Altos® Plata Tequila’ to the table. As the night unfolded, it was clear that this was more than just an anniversary; it was a celebration of resilience, passion, and community. From heartfelt toasts to spontaneous laughter, the energy in the room was undeniable.
“The TIP team is beyond grateful to everyone who joined, especially the sponsors, Damian DTLA and Altos Tequila, for helping make this night a success. As we move forward into the next chapter, we carry the same values that have guided us through the past four years: community, creativity, and a commitment to building something meaningful. We are excited for the future and look forward to continuing this journey with all of you by our side,” said TIP founders Geza and Lucy Frey.
Interested in Hosting Your Own Event?
If you’re looking for the perfect venue or top-tier catering services for your next event, look no further than one of LA’s most iconic and beloved, Damian DTLA. Their team, setting, and intricate attention to detail make them the ideal choice for any special occasion. And if you’re in need of exceptional and smooth tequila to impress your guests, Altos Tequila is the way to go.
Photo Credit: @jayanyse @tip.supply
