Los Angeles Weekly Roundup

Fun Things to Do in Los Angeles

This Week: July 24, 2023 – July 27, 2023

Monday

Santa Monica Proper Launches Proper Hour Happy Hour

The Santa Monica Proper has just launched a weekday happy hour in the property’s iconic lobby restaurant and lounge Palma. Taking place every Monday – Thursday, Palma’s Proper Hour will see a Classic Martini and Aperol Spritz and signature cocktails such as the Il Matadore with Casa del Sol Blanco, Aperol, grapefruit, lime, and soda, and the Prima Classe with Bulleit Bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Montenegro, and lemon for $12.00 – $14.00, large format cocktails Westside Fling with prosecco, orange liquor, and fresh grapefruit juice and Strawberry Dream with rye, strawberry, thyme, lemon, and prosecco (exclusive to the happy hour offering) for $40, and house wine and beer for $8.00 – $12.00. Pair your libations with indulgent bites such as 36-Month Aged Parmesan, Long Stem Roman Artichokes, Crispy Polenta Fries, and Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta. Alongside the new happy hour menu, guests can also enjoy live music – DJ sets and acoustic performances – on Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Various prices; Mondays – Thursdays, 4 – 6:00 pm; 700 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310.620.9990

Los Angeles Celebrates National Tequila Day

Los Angeles celebrates National Tequila Day with cocktail specials and cocktail recipes from Milagro.

• Black Angus Steakhouse is the quintessential spot to enjoy National Tequila Day with 50% off margaritas! Pick from a selection of thirst-quenching margaritas such as the Gold Strike Margarita (Sauza blue reposado 100% blue agave tequila and patrón citrónge liqueur with our fresh lime agave mix), Strawberry Rita (Sweet California strawberries are hand-shaken with camarena reposado tequila and our fresh lime agave mix topped with a float of Grand Marnier) and more, all at a discount of 50% off each. Pair your margarita with their happy hour Square Cow Menu that satisfies any cravings with mouthwatering steakhouse burgers and sandwiches, and crisp and seasonal salads. For the best value meal for two, the Square Cow Feast for Two ($68) includes one steakhouse starter, two entrees, four classic sidekicks, and one dessert. Some of the menu’s highlighted dishes include the Rodeo Ripper Burger (8 oz. Certified Angus Beef Patty, Cheddar Cheese, crispy bacon, onion rings, pickles, and house-made BBQ Sauce), Steakhouse Quesadilla (Choice of Steak, Fire-Grilled Chicken, or Fire-Grilled Shrimp, fresh pico de gallo, cheddar and Jack cheeses, served with chips, salsa & sour cream), and plenty of additional dishes to relish. Various prices, hours, and locations

• Pink Taco, the iconic Sunset Boulevard hotspot known for Mexican food, good music, and plenty of tequila invites you to celebrate this National Tequila Day! Featuring a tequila-saturated and flavor-bursting menu, Pink Taco offers house-made margaritas and killer tacos made from scratch daily. Sip on tequila-infused favorites like Something Pink, a light blend of El Jimador Blanco, prickly pear puree, and simply agave. For a spicier twist on a classic, enjoy the Spicy Margarita featuring a zesty blend of Tanteo Jalapeno tequila, jalapenos, simply agave, and hints of lime. To cool off and refresh, choose from a variety of tequila-saturated frozen margarita flavors including lime, mango con chile, and strawberry. $14+; Monday, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm; 8225 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046; 323.380.7474

• The Restaurant at The Georgian is for the tequila-lovers with an air of class and old-Hollywood romanticism. Guests can immerse themselves in a vintage-lovers dreamland and enjoy National Tequila Day in the art-deco meets Havana-inspired Dining Room and Sunset Terrace with views overlooking the Pacific Ocean. In celebration of National Tequila Day, the Restaurant at The Georgian is partnering with Ocho Tequila to shake up classic margaritas for $15 made with Ocho Blanco, lime, and agave. Guests can also choose a house favorite tequila cocktail like the Shore Thing, crafted with rosemary-infused tequila, watermelon, mint, chipotle, and lime, available for $20. $15+; Monday, 11:30 am – 2:30 pm and 5:30 – 9:00 pm; 1415 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310.395.9945

• The Roof at the West Hollywood EDITION has some of the best views in West Hollywood and is the ideal place to celebrate National Tequila Day. The Roof’s menu offers Latin and tropical-inspired cocktails with Southern California flair. A deep list of Mezcals and Tequilas are met with fresh, vibrant, and colorful California citruses, along with wellness cocktails incorporating fresh pressed juices. For a unique tequila-based beverage, sip on a FAME GAME crafted with Casamigos Blanco, Melon Aperitif, Lime, and Peychaud’s Wasabi Salt atop a terraced deck adorned with wooden bench seating, mature trees, and terra cotta potted plants. Various prices; Monday, 11:00 am – 10:00 pm; 9040 Sunset Blvd. West Hollywood, CA 90069; 424.310.1572

• Spend National Tequila Day at Home with These Cocktail Recipes from Milagro Tequila
  • The Freshest Margarita
    • 2 Parts Milagro Silver
    • 3⁄4 Parts Agave Nectar* (* Or substitute Simple Syrup)
    • 1 Part Fresh Lime Juice
    • 1 Lime Wheel
    • Method: Pour all ingredients into a Boston shaker, add ice, shake, and strain over fresh ice into a rocks glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.
  • Paloma Select
    • 1 1⁄2 Parts Milagro Select Silver
    • 1⁄2 Part Agave Nectar* (Or substitute Simple Syrup)
    • 1 Part Pink Grapefruit Juice
    • 1⁄2 Parts Fresh Lime Juice
    • 3 Parts Sparkling Water
    • 1 Pink Grapefruit Wedge
    • Method: Pour all ingredients, except sparkling water, into a Boston shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a highball glass with fresh ice. Top with sparkling water. Garnish with speared grapefruit wedge.

Surf Clam Pop-Up at Tallula’s

Experience a sneak peek of Chef Tony Messina’s highly anticipated New England-inspired concept during his Surf Clam pop-up at Tallula’s on Monday nights. Indulge in delectable offerings like Lobster Rolls, Fresh Oysters, Dry-Aged Hamachi Crudo, Fancy Fish Sticks with caviar ranch, Fried Clams with miso tartar sauce & onion strings, Whole Fried Bass with shrimp cracker crust, and tons more. Reservations are encouraged but walk-ins are available. Monday and 7/31, 118 Entrada Dr., Santa Monica, CA 90402; 310.526.0027

Tuesday

New Taco Tuesday Specials at Chicas Tacos

It’s Taco Tuesday at Chicas Tacos! From now through Labor Day, the home of “a better taco” is offering delicious specials, like a 3 Taco Combo with a drink for $16 (+$2 for an adult beverage), 50% off all margaritas or beverages, and $3 tacos all day! Various hours at all three locations (Culver City, All Season Brewing, and Rodeo39)

Wednesday

Flights & Bites Returns to Playa Provisions This July Featuring Japanese Whisky

The July edition of the Flights & Bites tasting series at Playa Provisions returns tonight. Owned and operated by Celebrity Chef and Top Chef winner Brooke Williamson, Flights & Bites takes place at Grain Whiskey Bar, the hidden gem speakeasy tucked away within Playa Provisions. The experience is led by Bar Manager Liam Odien and features a special tasting menu, complete with 4 unique styles of Nikka Japanese Whisky paired with four courses from Chef Williamson’s kitchen. There are only 30 seats available, so book your ticket now. $90; Wednesday, 7:00 pm; Playa Provisions – 119 Culver Blvd, Playa Del Rey, CA 90293; 310.683.5019

Thompson Hollywood Presents: Wind Down Wednesday Featuring The Healer’s Ranch

The Thompson Hollywood welcomes you to Wine Down Wednesday, in partnership with The Healer’s Ranch. Every Wednesday, guests can enjoy a soothing sound bath on the breathtaking rooftop of Thompson led by Reiki Master and Sound Healer, Angelyn Bernardino. It’s the perfect way to de-stress after work and escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. These one-hour sessions allow participants to immerse themselves in the serene ambiance and majestic views during sunset. Guests will enjoy unobstructed vistas of the iconic Hollywood Hills, including the renowned Hollywood sign. The aim is to provide a sanctuary of sound healing and tranquility amidst the vibrant hustle and bustle of Hollywood. During the sessions, guests will experience the profound benefits of sound healing—a powerful tool that induces deep relaxation, reduces stress, and alleviates anxiety. The resonating vibrations produced by the healing bowls release tension throughout the body, promoting a profound sense of physical and mental relaxation, even at a cellular level. This practice has been shown to enhance sleep quality, fortify the immune system, and support overall physical well-being. Following the sound bath, guests are encouraged to attend Bar Lis’ Wednesday programming, Piano Nights. Here, guests can sing their hearts out to timeless melodies from classic stars such as Elton John, David Bowie, and Billy Joel, as well as modern favorites from The Killers, Kings of Leon, and Coldplay. To make reservations, please contact reservations@barlisla.com. The sound bath is open to the public and bookings will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, as space is limited. Hotel guests are kindly requested to secure their spot directly with the front desk. Free with RSVP; Wednesdays, 7 – 8:00 pm; Thompson Hollywood, 1541 Wilcox Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028; 323.465.1234

Thursday

Esters x Tóp Tép

The James Beard semifinalist wine bar welcomes Tóp Tép Co-Founders Thao Pham and Nam Nguyen to take over the “little kitchen that could” for one night only. Their LA-based pop-up series celebrates the style of Vietnamese cuisine they grew up eating in Hanoi, with some fun, modern twists on classic dishes. The à la carte menu includes Banh Mi, Beef Tartare, Tuna Crudo, Dry Chicken Pho, and fresh, seasonal ice cream, while the Esters team pairs crisp wines and signature cocktails for the evening. These regular guest chef pop-ups tend to draw a crowd, so reservations are strongly recommended, but they’ll accept some walk-ins too. Stay tuned for more guest chef pop-ups in August! Various prices; Thursday, 5 – 9:30 pm; 1314 Seventh St., Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310.899.6900

Free Jazz Nights at the Hammer Museum

Throughout July, you can enjoy free live jazz concerts in the Hammer’s courtyard every Thursday. Additionally, relish the company of KCRW DJs, savor happy hour specials, and take advantage of extended gallery hours for a perfect evening of entertainment and art. Free with RSVP; Thursday, 7:30 pm; 10899 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024; 310.443.7000

Coming Soon

(7/30): Benny Boy Brewing x Zef BBQ Eat & Greet

Zef BBQ pitmasters Chef Logan Sandoval, Michelle Lundstrom, and Ed Gonzalez return to the backyard beer & cider garden at Benny Boy Brewing to serve up some of their favorite dishes from competing on Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown season 2. The menu includes Chef Logan’s “wannabe BBQ” Glazed Beef Cheek, Money Michelle’s Pit Smoked Ribs with Dad’s Sawce, Cali Boy Ed’s Famous Tri Tip & Chimichurri, Pit Roasted Chicken Drummy, and a variety of barbeque sides. 21+ only; valet parking is available. $60 (food and beer) – $75 (food, beer, meet & greet); 7/30, 5:30 – 10:00 pm; 1821 Daly St, Los Angeles, CA 90031

(8/1): A.O.C. Presents Caroline & Friends – An Evening of Wine and Food with Four California Winemakers

A.O.C., the Los Angeles ground-breaking small plates restaurant at the forefront of the city’s best dining since 2002, presents an extraordinary evening celebrating the wines of four independent Central Coast winemakers. Caroline Styne is so happy to introduce four of her friends (Amy Christine, Peter Hunken, Jeff Fischer, and Jim Knight) who have become excellent winemakers, with a fabulous four-course dinner on 8/1. The menu includes Summer fruit, Speck, Saba, Dandelion & crushed hazelnuts, Grilled Duck Breast, Corn Pudding, Nectarine salsa & Santa Barbara pistachios, Ricotta Cheesecake – cherry-port compote, pistachio praline & vanilla whipped cream, and more. Guests dining à la carte can experience a flight of wines to pair with their dinner selections. $150 (must be paid in advance); 8/1, 5 – 10:00 pm; 8700 W. 3^rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90048 310.859.9859

*For fun things to do in Los Angeles this weekend, check back on Friday!*