by Dennis Richardson | Jan 15, 2024
Just in time to keep those New Year’s resolutions going strong, there’s a new expansion sure to keep you on track — no matter where you are in the U.S. If you didn’t meet them during the holiday season, now’s the next best time!
Magic Mind, a mental performance shot engineered with nootropics, adaptogens, antioxidants, and vitamins, announced today that their product is launching nationally at all Sprouts Farmers Market locations across the United States. This retail partnership is the first of many that Magic Mind plans to introduce this year.
In one shot, Magic Mind is scientifically designed to boost energy, enhance focus, create a sense of calm alertness, and increase overall productivity. Magic Mind will not only enhance your daily routine but also provide sustained energy, preventing those energy spikes and crashes, keeping you energized throughout the day – while also suitable for taking at any time of day.
A matcha-based swig, Magic Mind shots are jam-packed and infused with nootropics and adaptogens from:
- organic lion’s mane mushrooms
- organic cordyceps mushrooms
- organic ashwaganda
- bacopa monnieri
- vitamin C
- turmeric
- phosphatetidylserine
- rhodiola rosea
- vitamin D3
- vitamin B complex
- choline
- organic agave
Keto, paleo, and vegan-friendly, plus nut, gluten, and BPA-free, this concoction won’t encourage addiction, but will help provide up to 7+ hours of energy, focus, and stress management. The next best part of Magic Mind is its taste, which is a smooth and sweet mix with a barely bitter aftertaste. Easy to down, and small enough to go anywhere, Magic Mind is one of our favorite morning boosts that last through the day.
Credit: Magic Mind
With expansion into Sprouts, Magic Mind can now be found in over 400 retailers and directly on their website, MagicMind.com. Traditionally, consumers boost their energy via coffee, energy drinks or soda. Magic Mind is a different class of product that works alone or alongside your daily caffeine ritual, elevating your mental state and well being. Formulated with a doctor-validated mix of nootropics, adaptogens, antioxidants and vitamins, Magic Mind increases mental performance while decreasing stress; clearing brain fog, sharpening memory and boosting productivity without the risk of crash or withdrawal.
“We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Sprouts Farmers Market, a company that shares our ethos in empowering individuals on their journey to a more enriched and balanced life,” said William Hicks, Magic Mind CEO and Co-Founder. “With Magic Mind, we’re revolutionizing the way people access mental clarity and focus. Our unique formulation brings together the best of science and nature. This isn’t your typical sugar and caffeine boost— it’s a carefully crafted formulation designed to enhance cognitive function and mental well-being in an innovative, health-conscious way.”
Magic Mind’s mission is to help humans grow their mental wealth— the way people feel and mentally perform. The concept of mental wealth refers to the psychological assets and emotional resilience that allows individuals to effectively navigate life’s challenges, harness opportunities, and maintain a state of well-being.
Shop Magic Mind individual bottles for $4.49 or their 6-packs for $24.00 at all Sprouts locations and directly at MagicMind.com.
About Magic Mind
In one shot, Magic Mind is scientifically designed to improve cognition, enhance focus, create a sense of calm alertness, and increase overall productivity. Magic Mind enhances your daily routine by providing sustained clarity, focus and energy, throughout the day without anxiety, spikes or crashes.
About Sprouts Farmers Market, Inc.
True to its farm-stand heritage, Sprouts offers a unique grocery experience featuring an open layout with fresh produce at the heart of the store. Sprouts inspires wellness naturally with a carefully curated assortment of better-for-you products paired with purpose-driven people. The healthy grocer continues to bring the latest in wholesome, innovative products made with lifestyle-friendly ingredients such as organic, plant-based and gluten-free. Headquartered in Phoenix, and one of the largest and fastest growing specialty retailers of fresh, natural and organic food in the United States, Sprouts employs approximately 31,000 team members and operates approximately 400 stores in 23 states nationwide. To learn more about Sprouts, and the good it brings communities, visit about.sprouts.com.
by Dennis Richardson | Jan 15, 2024
Some neighborhoods have their very own gems where the locals gather, while some neighborhoods don’t have that luxury or convenience. And with those gems, may come delicious food, an atmosphere perfect for unplugging from the last week’s stresses, or just a perfect setting for your favorite people to come together and reconnect – a reminder of how a special place can work wonders for our existence.
West Hollywood is one of the places lucky to have a few of these gems, but there’s one in particular that checks all the boxes: low key and hypnotic, while buzzing with just the right amount of activity, and a consistency that those who love it can always count on. Dimly lit, yet bright enough to see your party’s faces, bouncing with infectious beats, while just loud enough to still connect with those around you, and elevated menu options still big enough to share and leave you satisfied. That place is Harlowe.
Owned by the 1933 Group, Harlowe made waves at the end of 2023 for their completely revamped bar menu, giving frequent guests something new to look forward to. In its nearly 15-year existence, Harlowe has managed to kick off 2023 on a strong foot that is bound to not only bring back regulars who may have fallen out of practice, but also attract new customers looking for delicious cuisine to match the unique time that the bar offers – ultimately turning it into a weekly checkpoint to re-up on all it offers.
And before being turned off by the idea of “bar food,” it’s important to understand that Harlowe has raise the standard of what bar food can and should be. Elevated by accomplished culinary consultant and chef, Chester Hastings, he proves that you don’t need a full and upscale kitchen army to offer a standout bar menu that appeals to the local community. What Harlowe offers is simple, unpretentious, and deliciously good. Chester’s recipe substack, his personal IG and book about cheese can help demonstrate his perspective, skill, and cucina povera ethos.
Most known for his traditional Italian specialties, chef Hastings taps into the same approach for Harlowe’s new bar menu: use fresh ingredients and do little to them. Inspired by the bar bites at Harry’s Bar in Venice and Grande Hotel et des Palmes in Palermo, he puts it simply, “small portion bar food but substantial.” This simple statement captures the very essence that he has managed to achieve with the new menu.
The new Harlowe menu caters to modern palates, keeping thing simple, yet elevated to what would be expected from shiny, fancy establishments:
- Oversized prawn shrimp cocktail, grilled with espelette and lime zest served warm on glass with a Madre mezcal-spiked cocktail sauce
- Cheese & Italian salumi plate; a brie torta with pesto, balls of fresh goat cheese rolled in bee pollen, wildflower honey, finocchiona salami, cognac mustard
- Hanger Steak Frites – long shoestrings with simple steak, finished with a mound of crispy shallots and cognac pink peppercorn butter
- Fried green tomato burger (V); cornmeal and chickpea flour batter in buttermilk, flash fried in a pan with spicy avocado crema
- Fried Calamari and Chicken tenders (GF) are battered but Gluten Free by using chickpea flour
- Vodka pasta gratinée (V) creamy and baked with pecorino, mozzarella and breadcrumbs
- Vegetable crudo platter (V) with lemon hummus, cucumber mint yogurt, pickled onion
In addition to the new menu, Taco Tuesday — a weekly staple to Harlow — is still in demand, and the tacos have been revamped with four varieties – all served on Gracias a Dios white corn tortillas and charred on an open flame. Fillings include: smashed purple potato with black bean and queso fresco; seared shrimp; citrus marinated chicken with avocado; and carne asada.
What’s a food experience without dessert? Harlowe’s irresistible sweets are made using Gelato Festival’s gelato mastery: chocolate alongside pistachio orange honey brittle, fior di latte with passionfruit honey syrup and toasted sesame, and lemon sorbet with fresh lime zest.
And it wouldn’t be a bar without Happy Hour, which still stands from Tuesday-Sunday, 5-7p, with many of the aforementioned dishes on offer — plus $10 mules, old fashioned, margaritas, whisky sours, long island iced teas, beers, wines and well drinks.
In a wave of menu refreshments, it’s easy to overlook bars, but Harlowe is not just any old bar. A decade of consistency and reliability in WeHo has proven its place as a gem to the neighborhood, especially in a post-COVID world. Bar bites of this magnitude are much more than snacks, but an unexpected dinner and dessert when molded by masterminds like Chester Hastings. Worth a visit even from miles out, Harlowe manages to reimagine the modern neighborhood bar experience and spark up envy in those who don’t live within its vicinity for the frequent visitor luxury, while also competing with big restaurant names we all know, love, and justify traveling long distances for. (See Harlowe’s hours of operation, here.)
About Harlowe
Inspired by a single painting of a vibrant 1930s socialite, along with an assortment of vintage portraits (often dubbed as her closest friends) donning the walls, Harlowe captures the feel of an invigorating social club from Hollywood’s Golden Era.
Harlowe’s design reflects the turn of the 19th Century: a time when European influences were prevalent in stateside culture, and revolutionaries, artists, and poets shared ideas over tipples and dance. Harlowe has the soul of an age once forgotten and the spirit of a young, vivacious neighborhood bar.
A lively list of classic and original drinks and old-meets-new dishes tickle the palate while patrons snuggle in a booth, chum it up at the bar, or scruff the dance floor on any given night.
by Dennis Richardson | Jan 12, 2024
If you’re looking for something fresh and new in Southern California, perhaps a new coffee spot will scratch that itch you’ve got. LA is no stranger to coffee brands or cafés, and with so many options to choose from, there are definitely many favorites near and dear to countless hearts.
Brewing in LA for the last 8 years, Tectonic Coffee is adding a fresh dose of caffeine to the West Hollywood area, and this will be their first flagship café despite their nearly decade-old existence. In what is bound to be the new neighborhood destination for flat whites, delicious pastries, and cozy vibes, Tectonic Café is fulfilling a long awaited dream for its loyal fans.
The new café is hosting a grand opening party on Sunday, January 14th, from 8 am to 12 pm, and will be open every day from 6:30 am – 3:30 pm, starting Monday, January 15th. Attendees can enjoy music and half-off drinks and snacks, while relaxing and getting to know the new neighbor who is bound to be a people magnet.
Tectonic Coffee’s founder, Deaton Pigot, brings a wealth of 25+ years industry experience. As a well-rounded coffee professional, he has a tested palette notably judging on multiple Cup of Excellence panels internationally in countries like Honduras, Brazil, Peru, Costa Rica and Colombia. In addition, Deaton has judged on national-level Barista Championships and has coached multiple US Regional and National Barista Champions.
He not only roasts Tectonic coffee beans in LA, but he personally travels to coffee-producing regions to collaborate with local producers and trusted importers, ensuring only the highest-quality beans make their way to America.
As if that were not enough, Tectonic Café is more than just a new place to go pick up your brew, but they also deliver straight to you! Tectonic offers a selection of brews that you can order and subscribe to, with their very own team of experts who will pick out the right variety for your tastes – or allowing you to customize your order to your liking. Subscribers are free to pause, cancel, or adjust their subscription at any time. A new neighbor and goodies delivered home? Count us in!
Tectonic Coffee Café is located at:
1040 N. Fairfax Ave.
West Hollywood, CA 90046
by Dennis Richardson | Jan 9, 2024
On Quitter’s Day (January 12), KIND Snacks is launching “Better You by Lana,” a one-day-only immersive wellness pop-up based in Los Angeles, CA, that flips the script on how to start the New Year, with actress, Lana Condor. By launching on Quitter’s Day, the day by which most Americans have quit their New Year’s resolutions, KIND and Lana are inviting consumers to shut out the noise and stress that heightens around the New Year and trust their taste buds.
Health and diet-related New Year’s resolutions rank among the highest set during the New Year. The pressure to “be better” at the start of each year is often matched with confusion. One recent study on eating habits showed that while over 70% of respondents across markets want to be healthier, half of the group found difficulty understanding what they need to do when it comes to making choices about their health. The abundance of noise and confusion creates conflicting messaging around how and what people should eat.
Through the pop-up experience and partnership with Lana, KIND invites Americans to think differently about the pressures we face when making choices about food and wellness. Through the pop-up experience and partnership with Lana, KIND invites Americans to think differently about the pressures we face when making choices about food and wellness. “It is nearly impossible to start the year without the overwhelming pressure and noise of our ‘eat this, not that’ culture that escalates each January,” said Osher Hoberman, Chief Marketing Officer at KIND. “As a continuation of KIND’s commitment to nutrition education and nourishment, we are challenging the status quo and empowering Americans to trust their taste buds to lead them to whole, recommended foods we’re not eating enough of today.”
“Each and every January, we all feel like we should be changing our daily routines to become better versions of ourselves. It’s time to ask ourselves how well these resolutions are serving us,” said Lana. “Better You by Lana certainly sounds like a wellness store in name, but the experience KIND and I teamed up to create is anything but. We will empower consumers to shut out the noise that comes with the new year.”
To visit Better You by Lana, stop by Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade on 395 Santa Monica Place, Unit 146 from 12–9 pm PT. The first 100 people in line will receive a custom gift from Lana and KIND while supplies last.
About KIND Snacks
Since 2004, KIND has been on a mission to create a kinder and healthier world – one snack and one act at a time. Its iconic KIND® bars – made with real, recognizable ingredients – sparked the growth of an entirely new healthy snacking category. Today, KIND has a family of more than 80 snacks that offer solutions for a variety of occasions. All of KIND’s products lead with a nutrient-dense first ingredient –nuts or whole grains – and do not contain genetically engineered ingredients, sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners.
Inspired by the belief that acts of kindness can be a transformative force for good, the KIND brand seeks to inspire kindness and empathy. KIND was founded by Daniel Lubetzky. To learn more about KIND, please visit www.kindsnacks.com and join us on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
1 Grimmelt, A., Moulton, J., Pandya, C., & Snezhkova, N. (2022, October 5). Hungry and confused: The winding road to conscious eating. McKinsey & Co. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/consumer-packaged-goods/our-insights/hungry-and-confused-the-winding-road-to-conscious-eating
by Dennis Richardson | Dec 15, 2023
Ruth’s Chris Steak House, famous for its unmatched dining experience and steaks served on 500-degree sizzling plates, announced the relocation of its beloved Woodland Hills restaurant to 5919 Canoga Avenue, which is now open for business.
The new Woodland Hills Ruth’s Chris restaurant brings an exquisite dining experience to the Los Angeles area with its 10,139 square-foot location that features one main dining room, one casual dining room, a luxurious bar and bar dining area, a patio with ample seating, as well as a board room and two private dining rooms that can be reserved for any special occasion. The space is thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortably elegant, warm, and welcoming dining experience for every guest. As part of the pre-opening celebration for the relocated restaurant, Ruth’s Chris hosted a special VIP dinner with community leaders, business owners and Ruth’s Chris executives where 100% of the proceeds from the evening were donated to Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.
Credit: Ruth’s Chris
“We’ve had the pleasure of serving the Los Angeles community for more than ten years, and are fortunate to continue offering our one-of-a-kind experience to guests in the area with the relocation of our Woodland Hills restaurant,” said Brad Wood, General Manager of Ruth’s Chris Steak House Woodland Hills. “We look forward to welcoming new guests, as well as those who are already familiar with and passionate about our brand.”
Brad joined Ruth’s Chris Steak House in 2001, at the San Francisco location. He was quickly recognized as a valuable Team Member, joined the Woodland Hills team as part of the opening management team and was then promoted to General Manager in 2004. He worked outside of Ruth’s Chris for a short period, but quickly realized he wanted to call the organization “home,” taking a position as General Manager of the Beverly Hills location.
Credit: Ruth’s Chris
Executive Chef Mike Marquez also joined the Ruth’s Chris Steak House team 13 years ago in Pasadena, CA as a broil cook. Since then, the team quickly recognized Mike’s talent, along with the value he brought to the organization, and he was promoted to Sous Chef. After years of dedication to the Ruth’s Chris brand, he became Executive Chef of the Beverly Hills location and was later transferred to the Woodland Hills, CA location where he has been the Executive Chef for the last 8 years.
The new location also opens with two new seasonal two new seasonal menu offerings – the Filet & Cabernet Pairing available for at the bar for $38, which includes a 6 oz. Filet topped with three large shrimp alongside a refreshing glass of DAOU Cabernet Sauvignon and a Fireside Old-Fashioned Cocktail handcrafted with Elijah Craig small batch bourbon, Demerara syrup, Amaro Averna, Angostura and chocolate bitters for $17. Ruth’s Chris Woodland Hills unbeatable Happy Hour includes mouthwatering food and full-size appetizers, hand-crafted cocktails and wine starting at only $9 from 4:00p.m. – 6:00p.m. every Sunday through Friday. Reservations are not accepted for the bar, nor required. Seating is on a first come, first served basis.
Credit: Ruth’s Chris
Ruth’s Chris is known for featuring the finest steaks, the best service, and an unmatched level of hospitality that has persevered since the first restaurant opened in New Orleans in 1965. The company’s perfected broiling method and seasoning techniques ensure each cut of USDA Prime beef arrives cooked to perfection and sizzling on a 500-degree plate. Representing the highest-quality beef, these cuts are well marbled and hand-selected for thickness and tenderness. Ruth’s Chris guests can also enjoy fresh seafood, scratch-made side dishes and desserts, craft cocktails and choice wines.
For more information, hours of operation or to make a reservation, please visit https://ruthschris.com/woodland-hills/ or call (818) 227-9505.
About Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Ruth’s Chris Steak House was founded by Ruth Fertel 58 years ago in New Orleans, Louisiana. Ruth had a recipe for everything – from how to prepare her signature sizzling steaks to how to treat her guests. This timeless formula is a testament to how one neighborhood eatery has become the largest collection of upscale steak houses in the world, with more than 150 restaurant locations around the globe. Ruth’s Chris remains true to its heritage, helping guests make their best memories on 500-degree sizzling plates.
by Dennis Richardson | Dec 15, 2023
There’s a song and phrase rooted in Hawaii that makes a yearly return: “Mele Kalikimaka!”
If you didn’t know, “Mele Kalikimaka” means “Merry Christmas,” and there’s a good reason some visitors will be saying and/or singing the song this holiday season. In what shocked many earlier this year, Maui is still recovering after the devastating fires that resulted in the loss of over 100 lives, and the majority of structures in historic Lahaina. However, it’s what can’t be seen that remains and gives hope to those who lost so much: memories, a strong collective spirit, and aloha.
As we approach the holidays, the best way travelers can show continued support for Maui after the Lahaina wildfires is to travel mindfully, respectfully, and responsibly. And there’s one hotel who will help with that mission: Wailea Beach Resort in Maui.
The resort’s “Return to Maui: Travel with Heart” package donates $100 of each stay to supporting Hawaii Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund. Hawaii Community Foundation is one of the most trusted and credible sources for updates on the latest in Maui’s recovery efforts, plus the island’s overall wellness, as it transforms lives and improves the island’s communities.
During the holidays, children can greet Kris Kringle as he arrives to the shores of Maui via canoe for the island holiday experience. Additional holiday programming and activities include some of the classics and new experiences, like an Elf Parade with milk and cookies, Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunts, wood ornament making classes, pineapple carving, sugar cookie, donut and gingerbread decorating, holiday Hula, wreath and floral lei-making workshops, holiday ukulele, a mermaid meet-and-greet, story time with Mrs. Claus, festive movie matinees and movie nights, and so much more. Adults can also get into the holiday spirit(s) with festive culinary and mixology workshops.
On top of the festive fun, visitors can enjoy some of the resort’s everyday amenities and features, like the recently unveiled “Olakino Wellness Pool Experience.” The experience features an unparalleled adults-only wellness sanctuary with personalized service from Po’e Mālamas (translated as ‘one who takes care’) and elevated wellness and culinary offerings – all included in a private poolside setting.
The resort also recently introduced a new way to luxuriate in island-style outdoor living with its new “Sundeck Garden Oasis” room category, a group of private garden oasis’ that feature expansive lanais appointed with outdoor bathtubs, lush amenities and firepit lounge areas for rest during Maui’s cool nights and further honoring the island’s famous outdoor living.
As part of the Sundeck Garden Collection, the resort is introducing the rebalancing Bath Butler Program. Each bathing ritual and treatment is designed to cater to individual needs, providing a rejuvenating and revitalizing experience like no other. Bath rituals include Air/Enliven Bath Ritual (a powerful body cleanser to reduce toxins with uplifting lemon and juniper), Fire/Replenish Bathing Ritual (a citrus soak that will relieve muscle tension, ease joint pain and detoxify the body), Water/Release Bathing Ritual (an algae-based soak to alleviate sore muscles and soothe stressed joints) and Earth/Embrace Bathing Ritual (a lavender fusion milk bath that will leave one feeling refreshed and renewed).
Additional experiences include foot conditioning treatment, reflexology, sound therapy session, frangipani hair and scalp treatment, Reiki session and in room massage.
Finally, the resort recently opened its new Makani lobby bar, inviting guests to “breeze” by in the Grand Lanai Lobby for thirst quenching libations including a selection of craft cocktails, wines, locally brewed beer, and lite bar snacks. This holiday season, guests can expect festive mixology classes and drinks at the bar. Even more, there will be new room renovations starting in March 2024!
The “Return to Maui: Travel with Heart” package includes a $100 resort credit and daily breakfast buffet for two, while also donating $100 of each stay to supporting Hawaii Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund. This turns that holiday visit into a chance to not only live in island luxury and comfort, but to also give back, learn from, and support the local small businesses and people who breathe life into the island of Maui.
About Wailea Beach Resort
At the ocean’s edge nestled between two of Maui’s golden sand crescent beaches, Wailea Beach Resort is the epitome of scenic luxury spanning 22 acres with three spectacular pool experiences including private floating cabanas and the longest water slide in Maui. Distinctive dining options showcasing locally sourced ingredients range from the signature Humble Market Kitchin by Roy Yamaguchi and private candlelit oceanfront experiences to a poolside food truck.
Te Au Moana, meaning “The Ocean Tide” Luau, transports guests on a cultural journey through Hawaii’s history with song, dance, and traditional culinary fare. Immersive activities such as Outrigger canoeing, kayak turtle tours, ukulele lessons and nightly fireside s’mores and Mo’olelo (Hawaiian storytelling). For highly sophisticated accommodations, look no further than the Sundeck Collection which features luxurious indoor-outdoor living with an expansive 150 square foot private lanai for convenient access to the beach walk, lawn and pools.
by Dennis Richardson | Dec 7, 2023
It’s hard to believe that the holidays are once again upon us, and soon everyone will be scrambling to sort out the the right gifts for various people in their lives. Keeping with our tradition of providing a one-stop spot for all your gift buying needs, we’ll be providing you with a rundown of some of the hottest products of the year, along with the biggest sales and deals you can catch ahead of the holidays.
As a bonus, we’ll be publishing a holiday themed event roundup, that way you can find what to do all in one place. Stay tuned for updates up until the countdown to the new year for new additions to the roundup!
Food, Drinks, Health & Wellness
Find Balance With Remedy Organics
If you’re shopping for someone who could use some extra wellness support this holiday season (or yourself!),
Remedy Organics is the perfect gift to maintain a sense of balance through the holidays and after!
It’s no secret that the holidays can be a time of overindulgence, leaving us feeling sluggish and bloated. Luckily, Remedy Organics offers a lineup of nourishing, plant-based elixirs that are not only a treat for your taste buds, but also a remedy to reset your gut health after those festive feasts.
Crafted with finest certified organic superfoods, ayurvedics, botanical herbs, and prebiotics, Remedy Organics is a gift packed with a variety of unique functional benefits. Whether you’re looking for stocking stuffers, wellness-themed gift baskets, or a way to support your loved ones in search of a healthier holiday season, Remedy Organics has delicious solutions for everyone. Holiday favorites include:
- Remedy Reset Program ($139.99) – created by a holistic nutritionist, this program is designed to cleanse your system in a gentle and delicious way! With gut-healing wellness shakes, immunity shots, and an exclusive Remedy mindfulness journal, this is the perfect present for self-care lovers and those that prioritize clean, natural, and sustainable food choices.
- Breakfast Essentials ($69.99) – for the one looking to dip their toes into the world of functional beverages, try this variety pack that includes the 10 best-selling elixirs. Soulfully crafted by a holistic nutritionist, this pack is perfect for those with busy lifestyles looking to boost their energy, performance, and focus this holiday season and beyond.
Switch Up The Cocktail & Mocktail Game With Nixie
Know someone with a bad soda habit that needs to get kicked? Meet Nixie! Made with organic sparkling water, and without synthetic solvents, carriers or artificial preservatives, Nixie was founded by the brains behind Late July Snacks – one of the first brands to carry the USDA Organic seal. Nicole Bernard Dawes has dedicated her life to transforming the food industry by creating delicious, organic options. With Nixie, the sparkling water brand is certified USDA Organic, with zero sugar, sodium or calories.
Since launching in 2019, Nixie’s core range of flavors include Watermelon Mint, Lime Ginger, Strawberry Hibiscus, and more. Nixie is available nationwide in 24-packs on Amazon, with individual cans, 8-packs and 24-packs available in more than 7,500 retailers nationwide, including Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Ralphs.
Not only was Nixie a refreshment staple for the summer months, but they’re proving to be a savior for cocktails during the cooler month, too! Check out the recipes below for your holiday party or for the bartender in your life:
Find Wellness from Within with Kroma
The ultimate kickstarter for renewal in the new year, Kroma is dedicated to revitalizing mind, body and spirit through transformative Resets and Daily Essentials that include meticulously selected ingredients from superfoods around the world to create nourishing, and healing functional foods and beverages. Their line of products range from meal replacing broths to snacks and lattes, while keeping the following standards:
- Curate for Quality: They have scanned the world to find the most nutrient-dense, high-integrity, sustainably sourced superfood ingredients available.
- Healthy Must Taste Amazing: Healthy and delicious can and should co-exist. All of their food and beverage products are culinary-inspired, masterfully marrying function and flavor.
- Be Pure: No cane sugar. No fillers. No dairy. No gluten. No GMOs. No shortcuts or gimmicks. Their intentions are pure and so are their products.
- Live Super Empowered: They have collaborated with some of the top nutritionists, herbalists, chefs, and wellness gurus to ensure all of their products adapt to the body’s chemistry and empower inner awesomeness.
- Keep It Simple: Their instant, superfood-centric products were made to simplify their life while keeping them nourished, sustained, and thriving. Just add water or non-dairy milk. Simple.
Check out Kroma’s fan favorites:
Kroma 5-day Reset: Designed to kickstart healthy habits and combat issues like fatigue, bloating, brain fog, weight gain, and more. You won’t be hungry, tired or bored, and you will see and feel a difference in as little as 5 days. Their Reset is fully customizable, portable, nonperishable and abundant— making it easy to forget everything you know and fear about cleansing.
Kroma Daily Essentials: Packed with premium superfoods, The Kroma Daily Essentials are an effortless way to level up your breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks and give your body the essential nutrition for daily performance and long-term whole-body health.
Get The Mind Right with Magic Mind
If you or someone you know could change up their routine for the better, then meet Magic Mind.
In one shot, Magic Mind is scientifically designed to boost energy, enhance focus, create a sense of calm alertness, and increase overall productivity. Magic Mind will not only enhance your daily routine but also provide sustained energy, preventing those energy spikes and crashes, keeping you energized throughout the day – while also suitable for taking at any time of day.
A matcha-based swig, Magic Mind shots are jam-packed and infused with nootropics and adaptogens from:
- organic lion’s mane mushrooms
- organic cordyceps mushrooms
- organic ashwaganda
- bacopa monnieri
- vitamin C
- turmeric
- phosphatetidylserine
- rhodiola rosea
- vitamin D3
- vitamin B complex
- choline
- organic agave
Keto, paleo, and vegan-friendly, plus nut, gluten, and BPA-free, this concoction won’t encourage addiction, but will help provide up to 7+ hours of energy, focus, and stress management. Skip reaching for that second (or third) cup of coffee, and reach for the magic instead – here.
Step Up The Morning Brew Game with Bruvi
Bruvi just recently launched a chic new black brewer and is also offering a Holiday discount on all brewers! Their holiday deal is a hefty $120 saving off all brewers – including the new black brewer – through to 26 December with the code HOLIDEAL.
The black brewer brews just like the original, award-winning Bruvi — and it makes seven different beverages, offering remarkably tastier coffee, and eco-conscious pods. The black brewer comes in a sleek black palette with stainless steel finishes and a frosted smoke water tank. The black Bruvi brewer is retailing at just $218 with the holiday deal, so act fast!
In addition, the newness doesn’t stop there; Bruvi also launched two new pods — Triple Death Coffee (high caffeine) and Spellbinder Espresso Forte (extra dark roast). Get them while you can!
Flaviar: The Lost Art of Distillation 2023 Advent Calendar
Prepare for an extraordinary whiskey journey with Flaviar‘s 2023 The Lost Art of Distillation Advent Calendar! This year’s calendar is a whiskey lover’s dream, featuring 24 meticulously curated, 50mL glass vials of award-winning whiskeys from 8 countries.
Each day holds a thrilling surprise from the rich notes of Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey to the exceptional flavors of J.J. Corry The Hanson Whiskey and the historical allure of Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Aged Whiskey. Place your order by December 7 in order to get the best deal featuring 24 memorable whiskeys!
Clothing, Accessories, Home Goods & More
Shop Hailee Steinfield’s Small Business Gift Guide
A gift guide within a gift guide? Consider it the ultimate bonus! Academy Award-nominated actress, multi-platinum recording musician, and producer Hailee Steinfeld teamed up with Amazon Small Business to share the products she’s shopping from Amazon’s Small Business Gift Guide this holiday season.
Credit: Cibelle Levi for Amazon (Cibelle Levi Celebrity Brand Photographer)
As a small business owner herself, Hailee curated her own holiday wish list featuring her favorite products from small businesses available in Amazon’s store. Hailee’s picks span everything from home decor and kitchenware to beauty and fashion accessories at a range of price points. See more on the featured products below and shop Hailee’s complete gift guide, here!
Featured Products from Hailee Steinfeld’s Amazon Small Business Wish List:
A Book For Creatives: “LIFE WHIMSY” By Wendy Conklin
Get the readers (and creatives) in your life a brand new book – “LiIFE WHIMSY”! Lifestyle personality Wendy Conklin is a designer, educator, artisan and “entreprenista”! Not only is this new read visually beautiful and filled with amazing photos — making it a superb coffee table book and a holiday gift — but it is also deeply intriguing while getting the reader involved.
Wendy is the Creative Director and thought leader behind the Chair Whimsy movement to live more creatively. She helps her online course students tap into and cultivate their creativity, giving them permission to “play” and upgrade their joy. Her teaching style makes the challenge of learning a new craft feel accessible and fun, while her business programming helps other artisans and makers leverage their knowledge, skills, and finished work to build and grow businesses supporting their families and providing financial and creative fulfillment.
In “LIFE WHIMSY” you will:
- Develop your creative thinking, twisting your mindset to options & solutions rather than failure & face-plants.
- Rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul through the magic of play. (Yes, adults can play!)
- Infuse creativity into your profession or business, even if you work in a deeply “uncreative” field.
“LIFE WHIMSY” is available now on
Amazon or directly through Wendy Conklin’s
website for $29.95.
LA Metro Holiday Merch
With the holiday season fast approaching, LA metro is excited to announce its new line of holiday merchandise, perfect for transit enthusiasts and anyone who loves the city of Los Angeles, and we hope you’ll consider featuring them in your gift guide. The collection features our limited-edition holiday design including:
- Snow Globe Ornaments
- Holiday Cards
These special items are also great gift ideas for Angelenos and tourists alike, the perfect holiday memorialization of the city of Los Angeles. Our Metro shop also features an array of options that make the perfect gifts for friends and family who are passionate about transit and public transportation. There’s sure to be something for everyone on your list. Some highlights include:
Protect the Eyes From the SoCal Sun & Snow Glare with COVRY
The holidays are upon us which means it’s time to start crossing things off your gifting list and what better way to do that than by shopping locally. The AAPI-founded eyewear label COVRY opened their Costa Mesa flagship earlier this year and their selection of opticals and sunglasses, available in store and online, make for an amazing gift for anyone.
COVRY was founded in 2015 in an effort to break away from the eyewear industry’s standard of one-size-fits-all. They’ve created a new standard: Elevated Fit® eyewear that actually fits. Created by using measurements from real people- not traditional industry standards, their uniquely designed, signature Elevated Fit® features longer nose pads, a reduced frame curvature and a narrowed nose bridge to elevate the frame, sitting higher on the face and away from one’s cheeks.
Some favorites from the brand include:
And highlights from the COVRY x Sanzo collection:
TUMI
During the Las Vegas Grand Prix on November 14th, F1 Driver, Lando Norris made an exclusive appearance at the TUMI store in Ceasar’s Palace to celebrate his partnership and McLaren collection with the brand! The stunning papaya colorway is an eye-catcher, and the collection boasts incredible functionality in the most stylish way.
Courtesy of Ash Bibby
The TUMI and McLaren team continue to evolve and innovate each collaboration together and alongside Lando, the collection focuses on unparalleled quality and technical design. The TUMI | McLaren Collection has proven to be a great platform reaching a large variety of consumers and collaborating with the F1 audience has been nothing short of exciting.
Since 1975, TUMI has been creating world-class business, travel, and performance luxury essentials, designed to upgrade, uncomplicate and beautify all aspects of life on the move. Blending flawless functionality with a spirit of ingenuity, we’re committed to empowering journeys as a lifelong partner to movers and makers in pursuit of their passions. For more about TUMI, visit TUMI.com
TUMI and TUMI logo are registered trademarks of Tumi, Inc. © 2023 Tumi, Inc.
Cannabis
KANHA Limited-Edition Edibles
Whether for the holiday festivities or long after, KANHA has released two new limited edition delights, that you’ll want to stick around for months to come: Sugar Plum and S’mores!
Thanks to KANHA’s fast-acting NANO technology, their new limited edition edibles pack a punch, hitting harder and quicker, taking you on a journey in as little as 15 minutes. Crafted with premium indica oil and a blend of all-natural terpenes, toasted spice and citrus notes, they’re designed to lift your spirits. Each package contains 10 pieces with 10 mg THC each.
KANHA Sugar Plum
Profile: Indica strain
Flavor: A dance of pepper and citrus derived from beta-caryophyllene, humulene and other indica terpenes.
Available Nov 13th until Dec 31 at select California and Massachusetts locations
10mg THC per piece | 100 mg per bag
KANHA S’mores
Profile: Hybrid
Flavor: The nostalgic allure of velvety chocolate, fluffy marshmallows and the irresistible crushed graham crackers. A luxurious Belgian milk chocolate infused with premium hybrid cannabis oil.
10mg THC per piece | 100 mg per bag
These exclusive flavors are available in select dispensaries in California until supplies last.
Be Their Santa For Cann-mas
Cann, the leading cannabis-infused beverage, is the perfect non-alcoholic beverage for those who are avoiding alcohol, but still looking for an uplifting buzz with a strength similar to a beer or glass of wine, sans hangover (Cann’s unique design is also an aesthetically pleasing addition to your bar cart)!
With just 35 calories, this cannabis beverage is the healthier, delicious alternative to alcohol, giving you the same buzz with half the calories and sugar of a traditional alcoholic beverage. The tonic is made for a controllable high experience (a microdose of THC + CBD) and doesn’t come with any of the negative effects of your go-to tequila, vodka, beer or wine.
You can also try recreating your favorite cocktails with Cann instead of booze. Blood Orange Cardamom and sparkling lemon water makes for an easy Winter Spritz, while Grapefruit Rosemary with agave and lime juice makes for a buzzy mocktail reminiscent of a Rosemary Infused Paloma! The possibilities are endless with Cann, but the results are all the same – buzzed but no hangover.
Cann’s also on the go with you this holiday season thanks to their ultra-portable Cann Roadies. If you want to sneak in some stress relief and stay under the radar at the holiday gathering, roadies fit in your pocket or purse and makes it easy to reach your higher self.
So whether you’re getting together with friends for a cozy, seasonal dinner or embarking on the journey of holiday family dynamics, Cann has you covered with these on-the-go packets containing 2mg THC and 4mg CBD.
Simply tear, pour, and watch the flavorful liquid mix perfectly in any drink. No powders here – simple and real ingredients to spark an enjoyable time wherever you may be headed. Not to mention, At 30 calories per sachet, the Roadie’s ingredients are as clean as they are delicious – vegan too!
Get Prepped for Dry January with Cali Sober
Spice up your Dry January with tongue tingling mocktail beverages that are anything but dry. These tantalizing THC-infused drinks will leave you on a high and a better buzz this coming year.
Cali Sober, the pioneers of THC-infused mocktails that provide good vibes for better lives, have developed three special flavors for consumers seeking a refreshing twist on traditional beverages. Meticulously crafted and boasting all-natural ingredients, Cali Sober’s signature mocktails are designed to elevate your senses without the hangover. Each can delivers a perfect 5 mg THC per serving, ensuring a controlled and enjoyable high. Indulge in three refreshing flavors: Berry Ginger Fizz, Ranch Water and Paloma Spritz. Cali Sober 4-pack retails for $28 and is available at select retailers nationwide or delivered directly to your home.
Las Vegas-based dispensary, The Source has partnered up with premium cannabis line, High Heads and leading manufacturer of gourmet beverages and food garnishes, Dress The Drink to concoct the ultimate non-alcoholic beverages whose flavors may have you extending Dry January beyond the end of the month. Hand-crafted by expert mixologists, the High Heads Puff Punch line was used to create three mind-altering flavors: Puff’s Tropical Nectar using Mango Madness, Puff’s Black Tea Tango using Orange Whip and Puff’s Berry Citrus Fizz using Trippy Berry.
Each pouch holds approximately 100mg of hybrid cannabinoids. All three flavors retail for $10 for an 85 ml pouch and are available at The Source dispensary in Nevada. Pre-order and curbside pick up available.
Look Out For The Fur Babies With Bailey’s CBD For Pets
Bailey’s CBD for Pets is not just another pet shop. It is a family-owned and operated business passionate about your furry friend’s well-being. They understand that your pets are integral to your family and deserve the best. That’s why they are dedicated to providing the highest-quality CBD products to enhance your pets’ lives.
Courtesy Bailey’s CBD
Bailey’s CBD products are crafted with the expertise of veterinarians who understand your pets’ unique needs and offer full-spectrum CBD oil products, harnessing the power of the entire hemp plant. This ensures your pets receive a comprehensive range of beneficial compounds, working synergistically to support their overall health.
The company believes in the purity of nature and their hemp extract is organically grown and single-sourced, providing the highest quality of products. To learn more about the brand, please visit their website.
by Dennis Richardson | Dec 1, 2023
Fogo de Chão, the internationally-renowned restaurant from Brazil that allows guests to make culinary discoveries at every turn, opened its newest restaurant in Brea on Monday, December 4th. Located directly across from the Brea Mall at 311 S. State College Blvd, this new location marks the third Fogo de Chão restaurant in Orange County and the 10th location in Southern California. As part of their introduction to the Brea community, Fogo will donate a portion of its first week of sales to Pathways of Hope, a local charity dedicated to alleviating homelessness, poverty, and food insecurity in the area.
Designed in partnership with global design agency Innovation & Design in Architecture, the new restaurant features an expansive dining room centered around an open churrasco grill. Here, guests can dine while watching gaucho chefs demonstrate the Culinary Art of Churrasco as they butcher, prepare, and grill different cuts of protein over an open flame. The Brea restaurant also showcases an outdoor dining patio, soaring wine cases, a marble seasonal Market Table, dry-aged meat lockers for in-house aging, a lively indoor Bar Fogo area ideal for all-day happy hour, and private dining spaces available for guests to reserve for any occasion.
“At Fogo, our commitment to crafting memorable dining experiences for guests encompasses more than just our restaurants; it includes supporting our neighbors in the communities we serve. We’re honored to collaborate with Pathways of Hope, an organization making a big impact in the Brea community and beyond,” said Barry McGowan, Chief Executive Officer of Fogo de Chão. “Brea is an exceptional community for us to introduce our experiential dining concept to both new and returning guests, and we’re excited to continue our continued growth in the greater Los Angeles area.”
Leading the Brea team is General Manager Mari Chacon, who began her journey with Fogo four years ago as a Bartender in Pittsburgh, PA. During her tenure, Mari has ascended through various leadership roles, including Customer Service Representative and Assistant Manager. Mari and her team look forward to becoming part of the Brea community and providing over 100 local jobs for talented individuals committed to delivering an exceptional experience to all guests.
Fire-roasted meats, the core of Fogo’s experience, include guest favorites such as Bone-In Ribeye, Lamb Chops, and the house specialty, Picanha —the prime part of the top sirloin. Fogo Brea offers a range of menu selections and prices to fit guests’ needs for lunch and dinner, including:
• Full Churrasco Experience – The signature prix-fixe menu selection that includes all premium and classic cuts, plus the fresh and seasonal Market Table & Feijoada Bar and authentic Brazilian side dishes.
• Indulgent Cuts – Guests can enhance their experience with a 20 oz. Wagyu New York Strip that is carved tableside on a Himalayan salt block to complement the cut’s intense marbling and buttery texture. A decadent, dry-aged 32 oz. Long Bone Tomahawk Ribeye or 24 oz. Wagyu Ribeye is also available to order for the table.
In addition to these options, the menu also includes the following:
• Select Cuts starting at $38 – For a lighter meal, dinner guests can opt for continuous service of one fire-roasted cut in addition to the Market Table and Brazilian side dishes.
• Weekday Lunch – Includes the seasonal Market Table & Feijoada Bar, plus family-style service of Brazilian side dishes for $18 per person. Guests may choose to add a single cut of fire-roasted meat or have the Full Churrasco Experience.
• Weekend Brazilian Brunch – Includes the Full Churrasco Experience combined with Brazilian-inspired brunch items like Braised Beef Rib Hash and made-to-order waffle and omelet stations.
• All-Day Happy Hour – Guests can enjoy $10 Brazilian-inspired cocktails, $8 glasses of South American wines, and $5 Beer all-day every day, in the dining room, patio and bar.Additionally, all bottles of South American wines under $130 are half priced all day every day.
• Bar Fogo – The Brea bar offers an elevated experience with a warm, timeless design and dedicated bar staff designed to allow guests to linger while enjoying smaller, shareable plates like a Picanha Burger or Lobster & Shrimp Tacos.
• Inclusive Menu Options — Guests can discover options for all dietary tribes from vegan to pescatarian and more. These nutrient-dense dishes include entrée alternatives to the Churrasco experience like Chilean Sea Bass, Seared Tofu & Black Bean Pasta and Cauliflower Steak, or indulgent appetizer options like jumbo shrimp cocktail and Seafood Tower.
• Fogo To-Go & Catering — Bring the Fogo experience home with individual churrasco entrees, à la carte offerings, full-service catered events with on-site grilling and ready-to-eat or ready-to-grill options.
• Group and Private Dining — Whether celebrating a special birthday or hosting a corporate meeting, the Brea location has a dedicated sales manager and offers customizable menus, beautiful private and semi-private dining spaces, and complimentary A/V equipment.
by Dennis Richardson | Dec 1, 2023
Exciting news for the tea and boba lovers!
It’s Tea Time at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf®, the Southern California favorite serving premium coffee and tea for the past 60 years. Today, December 1st, the iconic specialty coffee and tea brand has launched the World of Tea pilot program, an exciting new tea collection that aims to fuel American consumers’ increased interest and consumption of tea beverages.
Over the past few years, the popularity of tea has grown steadily in the U.S. fueled by the increasing variety of tea options and the expanding popularity of matcha and bubble tea.
“The rise in specialty teas and new flavors is an emerging trend in the U.S. and around the world. Our new World of Tea collection is a natural evolution for The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf®,” said Sanjiv Razdan, President, Americas & India, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf®. “We have long been regarded as tea experts and are now taking our guests on a deeper, more transformative journey. We invite everyone to discover our World of Tea, where the highest quality teas are blended with invigorating fruits, spices, boba, brown sugar and salted caramel.”
Building on its robust range of core teas, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf®’s World of Tea collection puts exciting twists on classics to bring new flavors and experiences to its guests. This is also the first time The Coffee Bea & Tea Leaf® is introducing boba.
The World of Tea Collection, which will be exclusively available at nine locations during the pilot program, includes:
- Ceylon Milk Tea with Brown Sugar Boba – A delightful fusion of flavors and textures, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s signature fragrant Ceylon Black Tea is infused with caramelized brown sugar, creating a symphony of sweetness and complexity. Chewy brown sugar pearls add a delightful burst of texture, making each sip a refreshing experience.
- • Japanese Matcha Cream Strawberry Latte – The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s premium Japanese Matcha is skillfully layered with strawberry puree, creamy whole milk, then topped with a decadent Matcha cream cap for a treat that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Oolong Tea with Strawberry and Cream Cap – The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s rich Oolong tea blend is perfectly complemented by the vibrant fruity flavors of a summer berry puree and freeze-dried strawberries. Topped with a luscious cream cap, this perfect pick-me-up will instantly refresh your tastebuds and your day.
- Chai with Salted Caramel Cream Cap – The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s signature Chai latte, crafted with a full-bodied black tea and an aromatic blend of cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, is comfort in a cup. A Salted Caramel cream cap and brown sugar waterfall completes the treat with a perfect balance of salty, spice and sweetness.
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® takes their teas as seriously as they do their coffee, meticulously sourcing the youngest and freshest leaves from the top five percent of the world’s tea and botanicals to craft bold and flavorful teas, starting with hand-plucked, single origin whole tea leaves.
The World of Tea Collection will be available at nine select locations in Southern California and Arizona.
Visit www.coffeebean.com/its-tea-time to find your local World of Tea!
by Dennis Richardson | Nov 9, 2023
Cowritten by Anthony Stafford
The Ingredients Of An Icon
There are some landmark hotels that are known in and outside of the state of California for their posh, chic, and luxurious experiences, from nightlife and dining to bustling with celebrities. And somehow there’s still room for yet another that has all the right ingredients for the “icon” status—and even more.
In the heart of Culver City’s Arts District, there’s a new promising icon on the block, The Shay Hotel. Opened officially in October 2021, this “Destination by Hyatt” hotel has swiftly become a mainstay, offering travelers and locals an enticing blend of posh accommodations, eclectic shopping experiences, and a dining scene that’s nothing short of extraordinary. Now, just coming off their second-year anniversary, this new gem has a strong presence that tells us it will be around for years to come, while hopefully becoming an LA icon known for generations.
We were invited for a weekend stay to experience all that the hotel and its conglomerate of small businesses had to offer during their Mercado y Más event and Art Walk & Roll Festival, and we’re providing all the details on why The Shay should be your next “Shay-cation” stay. In addition, you’ll find a sampling of small businesses you should support this upcoming Small Business Saturday (November 25, 2023).
Home Away From Home In A Prime Location
The Shay Hotel is more than just a luxurious retreat. Nestled in the Culver City Arts District, it’s perfectly positioned for exploration. The hotel is a stone’s throw away from some of the city’s hottest bars, the best restaurants, and a treasure trove of globally inspired art galleries and museums. As you explore the surrounding area, you’ll find yourself immersed in the vibrant cultural tapestry that defines Culver City. The hotel has even seen some incredible parties this year thanks to the presence of Taylor Swift and Beyoncé bringing their incredible summer concerts to Los Angeles.
Credit: The Shay Hotel
With the highly acclaimed etta anchored at its core and the glitzy Canopy Club as its crown, The Shay manages to purposefully and successfully integrate some of the community’s undiscovered and uniquely gifted businesses and artists throughout the inner workings of a hotel that feels more like a home, from the lobby’s gallery hall, which features the work of over a dozen artists and vendors, to the artfully adorned walls throughout the property. Some of these same artists and small businesses would grace the streets of Culver City and The Shay’s outdoor courtyard during our stay. The lobby isn’t your traditional kind, with a desk set front and center. Instead, you’re embraced by plentiful seating around a fireplace, a bar, a game room, a library/study, and the infatuating etta restaurant tucked subtly away, while the front desk is cleverly and stylishly hidden behind a wooden partition wall.
One of The Shay‘s standout features is its rooftop pool, an exclusive gem in the neighborhood. Guests can bask in the California sun and soak in breathtaking views while enjoying a refreshing swim, only steps from a decadent bite or refreshing sip from the enthralling Canopy Club. This idyllic setting adds to the allure of The Shay, making it a beacon for those seeking relaxation and luxury, or those who just want a delicious meal with fresh air and views.
When it comes to accommodations, the hotel offers 148 spacious rooms, including 19 suites, all designed with the utmost comfort in mind. The decor is sleek, modern, and functional, making each room a home away from home. The Shay’s commitment to guest comfort is evident in every detail, from the plush bedding to the thoughtfully designed interiors.
One historical tidbit about the hotel’s name and design worth knowing is that many of its decorations and furnishings present wooden and metallic surfaces, clean lines, and backlit circles. These touches are all reminiscent of the railroad industry and a particularly famous and successful steam locomotive’s creator, Ephraim Shay, from which its name is borrowed. We challenge you to find the trains throughout the lobby and the railroad-themed design references from the ground floor to the rooftop pool and everywhere in between!
Home-Cooked At The Hotel
When it comes to dining, The Shay shines brightly with its impressive on-property offerings. Award-winning chef Dan Perretta leads the way at “etta,” located at the lobby level. Here, guests can savor culinary delights that blend the best of local and global flavors. etta effortlessly delivers a gastronomic experience that rivals other hard-trying Michelin-starred restaurants—and it shows! etta was packed and lively, while making it quite clear that if you’re taking anyone out for an outstanding meal, this is the place to go. Creative and thought-provoking, it’s difficult to summarize the experience etta provides to anything less than a destination that every traveler and local should add to their bucket list of restaurants to try at least once.
And for those seeking another kind of elevated experience, the party-esque “Canopy Club by Mosaic” awaits on the rooftop. This is where culinary craftsmanship meets stunning panoramic views, creating a dining experience to remember. Our breakfast on the roof was nothing short of dazzling, as we enjoyed reimagined dishes under the October solar eclipse. Canopy Club’s version of French toast is by far superior to the thick-cut style we all think we love, while omelettes and even traditional breakfasts possess their own unique flair. Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s are a staple in LA, and you’d commit a crime by thinking Canopy Club doesn’t know any better.
The best part about both restaurants is knowing that they are merely steps away if you’re staying at The Shay!
It Begins and Ends With Community
We stopped by Mercado y Más during the sunset of Latin and Hispanic Heritage Month, where we discovered just over a dozen noteworthy small Latin and Hispanic-owned businesses practically having a party in the outdoor courtyard. Complete with music and food, everyone welcomed visitors with samples, smiles, and answers to their questions. Each small business had a captain at the helm, bursting with passion, purpose, and a story worth knowing. We invite you to explore the small businesses we encountered at Mercado y Más and all that they have to offer as we approach Small Business Saturday on November 25:
While visiting Atabey Coffee, we learned the subtle and meaningful differences between each of their blends’ flavor profiles and preparation, along with the stark contrasts of color and natural flavor. Best enjoyed without the addition of sugar or cream, we found each of these coffee blends to be sharp, rich, smooth, and easy to drink—comparable to sitting down and enjoying a favorite tea.
Tasty Dulzuras indulged us with the unique cultural twist of their incredible arepa/torta (cornmeal and coconut cake) and dulce de leche cake. Moist, fulfilling, and full of fun texture, these Dominican cakes are the perfect desserts with a cultural twist for parties and events to broaden the horizons of what many think of when it comes to cakes.
We found a new love at Maya’s Brigadeiro—handmade Brazilian sweets that could replace our favorite candies with no complaints. Bite-sized and in their very own lane of sweets, we appreciate this Latina-owned business for coming to Los Angeles and exposing us to a cultural gift that more should know about. Now, we’ve picked up new vocabulary, and a new craving has been unlocked.
Finally, VAVICA, helmed by sisters Valentina, Victoria, and Camila, impressed us with their line of skin and body care products. The Único Hand + Body Wash, Oil Spray, and Hand + Body Lotion smell amazing and absorb quickly into the skin, leaving it deeply moisturized, soft, and glowing to last throughout the day.
In its short existence, The Shay has already witnessed remarkable events. With Taylor Swift and Beyoncé gracing the stage at nearby SoFi Stadium for unforgettable summer concerts, the hotel has become a multipurpose hub of entertainment, attracting diverse crowds and further solidifying its status as a cultural epicenter.
The Shay Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it’s a multifaceted experience that beautifully encapsulates the essence of Culver City. Whether you’re a traveler looking for a memorable vacation, a shopper in search of unique finds, or a food enthusiast ready to embark on a culinary journey, The Shay offers an all-encompassing destination that caters to your every desire. As it continues to flourish in the Culver City community, The Shay’s future as an LA icon for generations to come seems brighter than ever.
by Dennis Richardson | Nov 3, 2023
In the whirlwind of life’s chaos, sometimes all it takes is the perfect melody to whisk us away into a world where time stands still, and joy knows no bounds. Goldie Heart, the gifted singer-songwriter and performer, offers us just that with her anthemic debut single, “Golden.” This song is not just another tune in the vast ocean of music; it’s an invitation to step into Goldie Heart’s world, where the only thing that matters is dancing and celebrating the present moment.
“Golden” is a serendipitous celebration of dance, friendship, and the transformative power of music. Drawing inspiration from the iconic era of 90’s pop, the infectious groove of disco, and the smooth R&B vibes of the 2000s, Goldie Heart’s single is a sonic journey through time and an ode to the timeless joy found in letting go of inhibitions and embracing the here and now.
The song’s upbeat tempo, pulsating beats, and irresistible melodies make it impossible not to move to the rhythm. Goldie Heart’s sultry vocals infuse the track with an undeniable charisma that captivates the listener from the first note. It’s a reminder that music, at its core, is a vessel for emotions, and in this case, the emotion is pure, unadulterated bliss.
In the words of the artist herself, “This song is about living in the moment, enjoying life, and being present with the people you hold dear. Time seems like it is moving faster and faster these days, and with so much going on in the world, I really wanted to write a fun, joyful, uplifting song that inspires people to dance, and to celebrate the NOW.” It’s a testament to the incredible power of music to uplift spirits, inspire movement, and create unforgettable memories. With every beat, Goldie Heart invites us to revel in the beauty of the present, to connect with others through the universal language of dance, and to cherish every fleeting moment.
The seamless fusion of past and present in “Golden” is a reminder that joy is a timeless and universal language, understood by all who are fortunate enough to hear it. “Golden” is more than a song; it’s an experience. It’s an invitation to step onto the dance floor of life and savor every beat. So, let go of your inhibitions, surrender to the music, and celebrate the now with Goldie Heart. It’s her world, and we’re all dancing in it.
https://www.youtube.com/@iamgoldieheart
by Dennis Richardson | Oct 24, 2023
At Langers, the legacy of joie de vivre and longevity intertwines with the brand’s second-generation family-owned heritage. Founded by Nathan Langer, a man whose life was dedicated to purpose, community, and a deep connection to the earth, Langers transcends the realm of providing pure fruit juices to American households. Instead, it embodies the lifestyle practices of the world’s healthiest and longest-living people in the renowned Blue Zones, or longevity hotspots. These practices include moving naturally, discovering one’s purpose, relishing an abundance of fruits and vegetables, and indulging in the age-old tradition of tea. In celebration of these unique regions, Langers proudly introduces two exceptional unsweetened teas: Bergamot Black and Green & Jasmine. These teas are infused with nourishing ingredients historically enjoyed by the centenarians of Ikaria, Greece, and Okinawa, Japan, two of the world’s Blue Zones.
Credit: Langers
Bruce Langer, the President of Langers, encapsulates the brand’s essence, stating “Langers Juice is a family brand, and it’s always been about just that: family and juice.” He goes on to explain the family’s unwavering commitment to crafting more than just juices; they are cultivating a legacy, a journey through flavors and traditions that extends beyond pure fruit juices. Langers embodies a dedication to moving naturally, knowing one’s purpose, savoring fruits, and sipping tea. These beverages reflect the vitality of centenarians in the Blue Zones, offering a sip of life’s most precious moments from nature’s finest gifts.
This exciting launch of Langers Blue Zones-inspired products coincides with the release of the Netflix docuseries, “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones,” hosted by National Geographic Explorer and Blue Zones founder Dan Buettner. The series identifies the world’s healthiest, longest-living populations in various Blue Zones, including Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California, where the Langer family’s farms and headquarters are located.
Langers’ latest venture represents a flavorful odyssey with no added sugars or sweeteners, epitomizing longevity and vitality. Each sip transports you to the extraordinary regions of the Blue Zones, inviting you to explore and savor their culinary secrets.
Easy To Drink Teas With Blue Zones-Inspired Ingredients
Green & Jasmine Tea inspired by Okinawa, Japan: Inspired by Okinawans’ practice of enjoying anti-inflammatory green tea with jasmine flowers and turmeric called “shan-pien,” Langers’ tea infuses real juices such as pineapple, mango, ginger, and dragon fruit. With the addition of turmeric, this tea offers a gentle lift in energy and mood restoration.
Credit: Langers
Bergamot Black Tea inspired by Ikaria, Greece: Bergamot, a fragrant citrus fruit that thrives in Ikaria, is at the heart of this antioxidant-rich blend. Combined with the juices of stone fruits, watermelon, and strawberry, this tea is designed to restore and renew.
For more information on Langers’ Blue Zones-inspired teas, visit their website and follow @langersjuice on Instagram.
To learn more about Blue Zones and the proven ways to increase longevity, visit the Blue Zones official website and watch “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones” on Netflix.
Langers’ Blue Zones Teas are available now at WinCo Foods, shoplangers.com, and Amazon.
About Blue Zones®
Blue Zones employs evidence-based ways to help people live better, longer. The company’s work is rooted in explorations and research done by National Geographic Fellow Dan Buettner in blue zones regions around the world, where people live extraordinarily long and/or happy lives. The original research and findings were released in Buettner’s bestselling books The Blue Zones Solution, The Blue Zones of Happiness, The Blue Zones, Thrive, Blue Zones Kitchen, Blue Zones American Kitchen, and the Blue Zones Challenge – all published by National Geographic books. Using original Blue Zones research, Blue Zones works with individuals, organizations, cities, counties, regions, and states to make healthy choices easier through permanent and semi-permanent changes to our human-made surroundings. Participating communities have experienced double-digit drops in obesity and tobacco use and have saved millions of dollars in health care costs. For more information, visit bluezones.com.
