Carrie R.'s Profile
DateCulver City, CA 90232
Culver City Farmers Market
Category:
Farmers Market
Neighborhood: Culver City
1 Previous Review:
-
2/26/2009 ROTD 6/28/2009
I'm kind of torn on how to review this particular Farmer's Market...
I mean, I got pretty much what I needed and for an awesome price, so for that I give the place mega props.
Parking is a breeze in the structure right behind Main Street...and it's free...FREE!...on Tuesdays in honor of the FM. Also a grand thing.
The layout is ok...most of the vendors sprawl the length of Main with a few heading around the corner on Culver (most there are crafts and such).
I did find flash-frozen beef which to me, is pretty cool. Grass fed, totally organic...meat from a damn happy cow! And the prices are comparable with say, Whole Foods or Bristol Farms, but your getting a really healthy (as far as red meat goes) piece of beef. The NY steaks were about $15.95 an lb and the filet was $23...so, go figure.
While I did buy a nice piece of salmon from the fish truck guy...I still think I kind of prefer the fish dude at the La Cienega FM on Thursdays...the guy at La Cienega keeps all of his fish separate and in chilled coolers where the guy in CC has his all out in the open, touching each other, and on ice. I also think the prices may be a tad better at La Cienega but not sure. Anyway, the salmon WAS pretty good...and it came with the little fin still attached lol. This part creeped me out! I went to cook it and was like, oh HELL no, I can't have a little flipper frying in my pan! I tried to cut it off but it was sooooo difficult. And then, I made the mistake of shoving said flipper down the garbage disposal. EEEK. Sounded like I was grinding GLASS. Needless to say, I had to put on a glove and fish (no pun intended) the sucker out before my honey cam home and chastised me for being a blond and trying to grind up a body part. Sigh.
The veggies were decent...lots of wilting in certain areas where the sun was hitting...that was a bummer. The strawberries are OFF THE HOOK good...totally red thru and thru, and sweet...as are the apples. I suggest getting some of each.
Maybe it's just the season, but I couldn't find any purple onions or bell peppers which I thought odd...but other than that...they had a good assortment of local goods.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 376-8595
Nick's Laguna Beach
Categories:
American (New),
American (Traditional),
Breakfast & Brunch
Had fries on the side ...thin cut, not oily, just right. And I also ordered the skinny margarita...basically, tequila + agave + fresh lime juice. DIVINE!!
Only reason they lost a star was because we had wanted to sit at an outdoor table for four (there was 2 of us) and the hostess said there was a party of three coming in...so they seated us at a two-top at a not-so-perfect table. And then, not 5 minutes later...the SAME hostess seated a couple at the table we requested (it was the only table left on the patio). Kind of pissed me off. SO, if you REALLY want a table outside...insist upon it. :)
This hike is great...couple of choices: you can take the stairs straight on up to the top (will kick your ass going up about 400 ft above sea level in a short amount of time) or you can weave and wind your way on up via a dirt path. We like to do the stairs up and the path down...
Super easy to park along Rodeo Rd...and really, where else can you go to the top and see from downtown LA all the way to Malibu and down to Redondo Beach? Breathtaking...
Los Angeles, CA 90019
(310) 968-9380
Breakaway Bakery
Categories:
Bakeries,
Gluten-Free
LOVE the orange cranberry scones and in fact, planning on getting the mix to go so that I can bake 'em up fresh at home!
The thin mint-esque cookies are TO DIE FOR if you crave those Girl Scout Cookies that are now a gluten no no!
I'm definitely going to make it a weekly habit to check out the bakery and stock up all on things yummy....love that they have not only the freshly made items but also the aforementioned frozen goods (muffin mix, cookies, brownies, scones...HEAVEN!).
Easy to park, friendly staff, open Wed/Thurs/Fri and Sun...just hope they open on more days soon! :)
Los Angeles, CA 90019
(323) 935-0268
Paper or Plastik Cafe
Category:
Coffee & Tea
Neighborhood: West Los Angeles
They have a few sammies and salads...LOVELY bread on the sandwiches. My only gripe is that seeing i'm gluten intolerant, not a lot for me to eat hear (as much as I want to eat up everything they have as it looks divine!). Would be fabulous if they could add some stuff to perhaps a sit down menu...like eggs on Sunday or something. Their salted caramels ($2 a pop!) are DIVINE but pricey...yum yum yum.
Cool vibe to the place...industrial meets urban chic. And there's a shop upstairs hidden away so be sure to check it out.
Welcome addition to the neighborhood!
Los Angeles, CA 90035
(310) 385-5993
Elat Pastry Cafe
Categories:
Bakeries,
Coffee & Tea
Neighborhood: West Los Angeles
Right off the bat I noticed how spic and span the place was yet welcoming all the same. Comfy looking chairs (WiFi!)...especially the set in front of the window...great for people watching.
I had an iced Americano with nothing in it which is the true test of a good cup of coffee...if it can taste alright without the pomp and circumstance, it's alright in my book!
Being the gluten intolerant that I am, can't say much about the taste of all the goodies but I CAN say...they LOOK fabulous! They have these awesome Jewish bagels that are like twice the size and super squishy...smell divine! They also have bags of pre-cut "croutons" which to me, look more like sliced baguette. These would be fab for a little bread and brie evening at home without the fuss and they come in a few flavors to boot.
Definitely going to go back and try an omelette one of these days as well...
Los Angeles, CA 90008
(323) 295-9112
Babe's & Ricky's Inn - CLOSED
Category:
Jazz & Blues
Neighborhood: Jefferson Park
For those of you who ever had the opportunity to meet Mama...I have no doubt that you feel the same...she'll be sorely, sorely missed.
I'd been going to B & R's for YEARS and only lately...since i've been married and dealing with the fast paced struggles of life, had I stopped attending the Monday night blues jams.
It was here, at this Inn, that my now husband and I went on one of our very first dates. Upon entering Babe & Ricky's, Mama would collect each patron's minimal fee for the evening (which included listening to amazing local blues artists, eating a homemade southern spread of fried chicken, corn fritter, black eyed peas and collard greens AND getting to hear the great Mickey Champion belt out tunes from the depth of her belly without a mc and whilst perusing the patrons...hands outstretched to earn a well-derserved buck or two).
It was here, that when my now husband and I had a chat with Big Mama as we paid. I first took out my money and she looked up at my man, glared disapprovingly but with a smile, and said, "Now child, you gonna let her do that?" He, shamed by Mama, reached into his wallet and paid for both of us! "You remember that from now on," she said as she shooed us into the darkened room.
It was here we sat, listening to jazz and conversing over a good three hour period..getting to know one another even better.
It was here that we ate with our fingers, not caring if we had food on our faces.
It was here we smiled in awe at Mickey and her powerful voice.
It was here that the locals from Crenshaw Blvd.. came together with the students of USC and the young Hollywood folks who knew talent and about this hidden gem. It was an amalgamation of black, white, rich, poor...all there in kinship to hear music and enjoy the soulful food. All there, greeted warmly by Laura Mae Gross.
I too called the number for the Inn and got a discontinued tone. The website offers no current calendar and there's not one article as to the fate of this last icon from the Central Avenue heyday. Open since 1964 (it moved once), Babe & Ricky's has been the home of many greats: B.B. King, T-Bone Walker, Cab Calloway, Duke Ellington, Ike Turner, Eric Clapton and John Lee Hooker to name but a few.
While i'm saddened that the final curtain most certainly has been dropped, i'm grateful that I had the opportunity to experience it and to have known Laura Mae Gross...if even for a few Mondays.
Thanks to Babe & Ricky's, I have a deep appreciation for budding Blues artists and thanks in some small part to Mama, I am now married to a Southern gentleman...
Listed in: fun things to do when in need
1 Previous Review:
-
6/20/2006
Ok...so if you are looking for something totally awesome and DIFFERENT to do in LA...head to Babe and Ricky's in Leimert Park. From the 10 frwy you go south on Crenshaw for a few miles--don't freak out, it's safe. lol MONDAYS are the BEST nights to go...open mic night. If you can play, sign up and jam if ya want to...or sing. Most people just go to listen and for the GREAT SOUTHERN COOKING. Monday nights-$8 cover which includes the blues music AND...drum roll here...Mama's home cookin and the voice of Mickey Champion. Mickey used to sing back-up for Billy Holiday among others and she belts out tunes without a mic...and she's in her 80's!!! AMAZING. Mama's cooking rolls out around 10pm so save room for the fried chicken, black-eyed peas, collared greens and corn fritters. Can't beat it for $8...and it's a cool date place at that.
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
(323) 854-0204
Vanessa-HairStylista
Category:
Hair Salons
Neighborhood: Beverly Hills
I've had my hair done by multiple people at GF and have always requested to have Vanessa blow dry my hair when possible (even though she wasn't even cutting or coloring it!). Ya know how there's just some people who can't friggin blow-dry? I've ended up with flat hair, Texas hair, weird funky hair, hair that's laden with products...but not with Vanessa. She uses just the right amount of product and she gets it perfect every time.
I was just there not too long ago getting my hair did and I brought my mum in with me...she was going to just get a blow dry with Vanessa but they ended up talking about her locks and she went for a full on trim and looked amazing! So I'd say...check her out for both.
But if you go for nothin' else...go for the fantastic blow outs!
Los Angeles, CA 90049
(818) 788-4200
Bel Air Presbyterian Church
Category:
Churches
Neighborhood: Encino
But, I digress. While yes, the people tend to be on the attractive side physically, they are also pretty spiritually hot. Meaning, people with good hearts, good souls...in addition to the lovely exteriors.
We go tot he 11am service and it's something I actually look forward to each week now...something I guess I kind of needed. Music is definitely uplifting...not stuffy, none of that up down up down, cross this, cross that, feel like you need to recite things that everyone but you seems to know. Nope, none of that. Hip, young musicians...they utilize a big screen that's pops up the words and I guarantee...after you hear a song or two, you'll be compelled to sing along. NO pressure, just happens.
The sermons are always great with wonderful meanings...taking sections of the bible and making it relatable. Wonderful sense of community and after hearing the Pastor or the guest speaker speak, you feel like you "get it." Not preachy at all...just very welcoming.
And like Diana said, you'll end up grinning to those relatable sermons without becoming distracted as can often happen in church. I always find myself eating up everything that's said rather than finding my eyes wandering and staring at the clock hoping it'll end soon.
The location is stunning whether in the rain or sun (although, the view is breathtaking on a clear day!). Highly recommend checking it out as well as the various programs available through the church for young marrieds, entertainment professionals and 20-somethings.
Went today, on a Sunday...neighborhood is just "ok" and we ended up having to park a good distance away (no biggy, just sayin'). We got inside and were blanketed with a smoky scent...at first an mmm mmm good smell and then about 10 minutes later, a little overpowering like I don't know, maybe open a vent? Regardless, it's BBQ I get it...all good on the smokiness. What really irked me was that there were all of TWO people in front of us and it took almost a half hour for the young lady behind the counter to take out order! THIRTY MINUTES!!! And in that time, no kidding, 3 different people came and went in frustration...choosing to go elsewhere for lunch. They were vastly understaffed...bless the guy doing all the meat cutting cuz he was trying to pitch in here and there and was even kind enough to tell us that the ribs were large today and we should consider going with 2 instead of 3 to keep the cost down. THAT was nice. All in all...2 corn on the cobs, 2 beef ribs (large!), a small side of tomatoes/cucumbers, and 2 slices (small) of the moist brisket (the best thing we ate...I recommend that if you go) and 2 drinks...$56 for lunch. So it's pricey, be prepared....but for not a lot of Texas BBQ in the hood, Smoke City is at least worth a try...
I've already given it my one visit however.
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Los Angeles, CA
Yelping SinceJune 2006
Find Me InLA 90035
My HometownDana Point, CA
When I'm Not Yelping...when am I NOT Yelping?
Why You Should Read My Reviewscuz I know where you live...kidding. Just kidding.
The Last Great Book I ReadAfter grad school, i'm kind of now into pop-ups and picture books
My First ConcertHeart...oh yeah baby
My Favorite MovieBetter Off Dead
My Last Meal On Earthcan't choose just one
However, I do not appreciate relatives of vendors emailing me "bitchy" notes, akin to harassment, regarding my reviews.
If you READ my review...I said I PREFER the fish at the La Cienega market but in no way did I say the fish here was bad. In FACT, I go on to say that "the salmon was pretty good." And I stand by that!
Here is the email I received from said relative (who has not written a single review might I add) and my responses:
yelp user:
Just so you now for the near future, fish needs to breath, not be sealed. You mentioned that the La Cienega guy keeps his seafood in coolers.. Were does the water drain from??? I bought fish from La Cienega man and his fish smells. I also have been to the man in Culver Citys warehouse , who by the way his name is pete. He is an italian from Chicago who knows his fish. So your complaint is inaccurate. Also some advice, do not purchase seafood if you dont know how to prepare it. The complaining about how shitty you cook was amusing.. Furthermore, I'm from Seattle, we know good fish........
My response:
Omg...are you serious? The review from over 2yrs ago of the farmers market? If you really read the review, I said I preferred the La Cienega fish guy...but that I liked the fish I purchased at culver.
It wasn't a compliant...was just a preference. No need to be a bitch about it.
As for my cooking...you know nothing about me nor about my culinary skills then or now. If you want to give your own opinion about Pete's fish...which was FINE...why don't you write your own gloating review. I'm sure he'd appreciate it.
And FYI...I've purchased from there MANY TIMES over the past two plus yrs...
Yelp user:
Well your complaint did not sound like a preference. You were mocking the way pete cut his fish..... and obviously your culinary skills aren't good if you do not know how to prepare fish..( the most easiest thing).. Also I'll let Pete know you called me a bitch, I'm his daughter. :) Have a great day!
My response:
Again...please read my review. I never mocked the way Pete cut his fish...I was mocking the way I...ME...was cutting the fish. And I said it was a personal preference but that the salmon was good!
You really shouldn't send people nasty, unwarranted notes...and I stand by the bitchiness as you come off that way in your tone.
Tell your dad that his fish was tasty but that his daughter has unfortunately served him an injustice by turning off good, paying customers...I for one won't be a continuing patron which is sad as I've frequented the farmers market and purchased plenty of tasty fish from there over the past few years.
And feel free to tell him what you like...he's welcome to read my updated review. All the best.
***just because I won't be buying my fish here doesn't mean you shouldn't try it for yourself! Fish was tasty...unfortunately the above Yelper put a bad taste in my mouth and has thusly turned me off.