Hollywood Blog

Musso & Frank: Authentic Hollywood Grill

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Millions and millions of tourists have set foot on Hollywood and have roamed the streets to discover what this amazing city has to offer. Being one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, it is no wonder that Hollywood is home to all sorts of establishments catering to all sorts of tastes and preferences. There is one thing that will always be sought after: that authentic Hollywood feel; and if you are looking for the real deal, then you should pay Musso & Frank Grill a visit.

This is not your run-of-the-mill restaurant which tries to emulate the Hollywood in everybody’s dream. It IS part of Hollywood’s rich and colorful history. Founded in the early 1900s, this establishment was the regular haunt of many personalities – from actors to literary figures. It changed ownership in 1926, and has continued to cater to locals and visitors alike. Recently, Musso & Frank has undergone some radical changes yet again. Jordan M. Jones, a descendant of the owners, took over the reins and implemented improvements while at the same time sticking to old traditions.

It used to be that the grill was best known for its martinis. Today, they have expanded their menu to include excellent wines and other drinks. They have also started playing music late at night, which was something “unknown” in the past. Once you put your foot inside the door, however, you will not be able to deny that Musso & Frank has something that all the other establishments in Hollywood may not have. Whatever you want to call it, you’ll definitely get that feeling at this Hollywood fixture.

Originally posted on May 9, 2011 @ 8:30 am

Be Tickled Pink @ Pink Pepper

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Who loves Thai food? I sure do! I do not know if you guys have ever tried Thai food but let me tell you, it is one of the best you can have. Though Thailand is a bit too far away from Hollywood just to go there for a meal, you can actually have a taste of the real thing right in La Brea Avenue!

The restaurant is called Pink Pepper (now isn’t that name just cute? Who has ever seen a pink pepper?) and has actually been in operation for almost 20 years now. It was in 1989 when Pink Pepper was opened by Tony Boon and it was located near the west end of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Naturally, the decoration of the restaurant included golden Buddha images. The interior was infused with rose and pink – probably the origin of the name. Unsurprisingly, the restaurant became a hit. Its popularity declined a bit after several years but today, it has once again risen in popularity and is THE place to be if you want Thai food in Hollywood.

What can you expect from Pink Pepper? How about some green curry fried rice, Thai herb-crusted salmon, and green papaya salad? Of course, they have more on the menu than that. To find out more about them, visit the Pink Pepper web site.

Originally posted on November 30, 2010 @ 3:15 am

Pink’s Hotdogs

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I once heard someone ask “What is America’s national food?” A friend then replied without any hesitation, “Hotdogs!” Now I would have to say that there just might be some truth to that answer, although of course, it could be questionable. The fact is that we love hotdogs and many of us have our own favorite brand.

If you are ever in Hollywood, if there is one hotdog place that you should try, it should be Pink’s Hotdogs. This is actually one of the famous landmarks in Hollywood and in fact offers more than hotdogs today. Indeed, the Pinks have gone a long way since Paul and Betty Pink sold hotdogs in a pushcart in 1939. Back then, they did their business on the corner near La Brea and Melrose.

Today, Pink’s home is in a building found at 709 North La Brea. Their menu has also expanded to more than hotdogs – from burgers to side orders and special hotdogs, one can expect to have a LOT of choices at Pink’s. Of particular interest to many tourist are their special hotdogs which are named after Hollywood Stars. It is said that these are the hotdogs that the stars themselves have ordered in the past. Want a few samples? Well, they have The Ozzy Spicy Dog which has spicy Polish dog, Nacho cheese, American cheese, grilled onions, guacamole, and chopped tomatoes. This one goes for $5.40. There are other interesting concoctions like Rosie O’Donnell Long Island Dog, and the Martha Stewart Dog (which seems to be popular).

Pink’s is definitely a place to visit – just be sure to pack along a lot of patience with you as there is usually a long line.

Originally posted on October 29, 2010 @ 1:24 pm

Mother’s Day In Hollywood

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Today is Mother’s Day – or have you somehow overlooked that fact? We all have our moments of forgetfulness, but we know that this holiday is something that we should not forget. Never mind that not everyone celebrates Mother’s Day in a big way these days, but even the smallest of gestures will certainly be appreciated by the woman who gave you everything: your mom.

Here’s a thought: why not take mom out for lunch or dinner today? Even if you weren’t really planning on it, you can still go ahead and do it.

In Hollywood, there are lots – practically endless, actually – of choices. Here are some of the best ideas.

Lazy Dog Café
They have six branches in the Southland area so you have lots of choices. The prices are very reasonable and you can choose from American, Italian, and Asian cuisine. They also have a special treat for moms on this special day.

Patina at Descanso Gardens
More than a fine meal, your mom would certainly enjoy spending time with you strolling in the gardens. Visit them at 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge and enjoy the Mother’s Day buffet lunch. First thing this morning, give them a call at (818) 790.3663 so that you can check if they can accommodate you.

Andaz West Hollywood
For $55 (adults; $20 for children), you can have a Mother’s Day meal at the French restaurant at this hotel, which is rife with the history and culture of Los Angeles. They’re located at 8401 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood.

Alternatively, you can just go to the nearest local restaurant that can accommodate you. After all, it’s the time spent together that really counts. Happy Mother’s Day to all moms out there!

Originally posted on May 9, 2010 @ 9:06 am

The Mission Cantina: New Tequila Bar In Hollywood

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Do you love tequila? I know very few people who do not. Well here is good news for tequila lovers who are in the area of Hollywood. There is a newly opened tequila bar called the Mission Cantina. Judging by the name alone, the theme is Mexican but where does the “mission” come in?

The tequila bar somehow resembles a small church or chapel. The windows are stained glass, there is a front courtyard patio, and there are chandeliers that are reminiscent of a tiny Mexican chapel. The pride of the Mission, however, is the bar, which is made of dark oak and is hand built. The beautiful bar seats 20.

So who owns this hot new bar located at 5946 Sunset Boulevard? A man whose name many people from Hollywood would recognize – George Abou-Daoud. This man is, in fact, considered to be one of the up and coming restaurateurs in Hollywood. He is already known for his other restaurants Delancy and Bowery.

The LA Times writes of the Mission:

Mission Cantina serves food at reasonable prices for a thirtysomething crowd. On the menu? How about Mexican ceviche with Red Snapper, barbacoa tacos, fish tacos or their “mole rojas” (served with jalepeno cornbread).

Dishes like the afforementioned aside, we suspect it’s the “liquid gold” that will be the true draw for Mission Cantina well into 2009. Expect an extensive tequila list, including Casa Noble Reposado, Cazadores Reposado and of course, Patron. We also like the strawberry guava mojitos here….the perfect L.A. drink to sip on a hot summer night.

Ahh, I bet you can’t wait to pay the Mission a visit.

Originally posted on August 23, 2008 @ 6:12 am