The Best Things To Do in Los Angeles 5/17/24 – 5/19/24
Friday
Justin Timberlake Tour Comes to the Kia Forum
Calling all JT fans! Can’t stop the feeling you gotta see Justin Timberlake live? His long-awaited “The Forget Tomorrow World Tour” makes its highly anticipated stop at the Kia Forum this weekend. Get ready for an evening of singing, dancing, and some surprises… $159+; Friday – Saturday, 8:00 pm; Kia Forum – 3900 W Manchester Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90305; 310.862.6200
New Happy Hour Menu at Seafood and Steak Destination Ocean Prime Beverly Hills
Seafood and steak destination Ocean Prime Beverly Hills invites you to enjoy their new happy hour menu. Prepare to sink your teeth into Crab and Artichoke Dip with club crab, aged swiss, and crisp tortilla, Short Rib Sliders with sweet & sour slaw, provolone, horseradish aioli, and onion jus, and my favorite, the Spicy Salmon Tacos with avocado crema, pickled onion relish, wonton, and nori. These savory bites complement Ocean Prime’s lounge menu which features Parmesan Truffle Fries, Lamb Lollipops, Pork Belly Bao, Oysters on the Half Shell, sushi rolls and more – all $5 off during happy hour. You can also enjoy a variety of their signature cocktails, wines, and beers at some of the best prices in the neighborhood. $19+; Mondays – Fridays, 3 – 7:00 pm and Saturdays, 4 – 7:00 pm; 9595 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90212; 310.859.4818
Prêt A Manger Enters LA with First SoCal Shop in Westwood
Prêt A Manger, the globally recognized coffee shop and fast-casual dining concept has opened its first SoCal shop in Westwood. This opening marks the beginning of Pret’s expansion into the Golden State, with additional shops coming soon to Studio City, Beverly Hills and more bustling neighborhoods within Los Angeles. Prêt first opened in London in 1986 as pioneers for freshly made, grab-and-go food and has since expanded globally to North America, Europe, and Asia. The Westwood shop will offer a wide range of delicious and freshly made salads, soups, baguettes and sandwiches like the Spicy Chicken Caesar Wrap and Rainbow Veggie Sandwich and a selection of freshly baked goods including Prêt’s best-selling croissants and cookies that perfectly compliment their organic coffee. The menu also includes plenty of clearly marked vegan and vegetarian meal and snack options, making it the perfect option for wellness conscious Angelenos. Various prices; Mondays – Saturdays, 9:00 am – 8:00 pm and Sundays, 10:00 am – 7:00 pm; 10906 Le Conte Ave., Los Angeles. CA 90024
Waldorf Astoria’s Rooftop by JG Debuts New Spring All-Day Menu
One of my favorite rooftops in Los Angeles, the Rooftop by JG, welcomes you to dine al fresco with mouthwatering offerings from their new spring all-day menu. Highlights include the Burrata, Arugula, Asparagus & Manchego Salad, Spaghetti with Fava Beans & Pistachios, Grilled Lamb Chops, Seared King Salmon with Spring Peas, and my personal two favorites, the Warm Maine Lobster Roll and Grilled Octopus. And don’t forget to pair your meal with one of the bar’s delightful cocktails, like the Cool As a Cucumber or Ginger Margarita. $32+; Mondays – Fridays, 12 – 10:00 pm (Spring All-Day Menu); Saturdays – Sundays, 10:00 am – 10:00 pm (10:00 am – 3:00 pm – brunch); Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills – 9850 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90210; 310.860.6666
Sugar Palm Debuts New Dishes and Cocktails
Sugar Palm, the signature indoor-outdoor restaurant at iconic beachside hotel Viceroy Santa Monica has recently launched a new menu under the direction of Chef Johnny Marin. Marin previously served as sous chef at the restaurant starting in July 2021, seeing it through its opening in October 2021, and playing a large role in menu research, development, and execution over the last two and a half years prior to his appointment to executive chef. Since taking over the Sugar Palm kitchen, Chef Johnny has transitioned from daily Sunrise and Sunset menus, to daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus that celebrate the melting pot of cultures in Los Angeles, using the freshest seafood and produce from local purveyors. Every member of the kitchen contributed recipes inspired by their family, mentors, and experiences in the culinary industry. Menu highlights include Ahi Tuna Tacos, Salmon Poke, Green Papaya Salad, a Tomahawk Board featuring a 32 oz. Tomahawk steak and accoutrements, Blackened Salmon with couscous and harissa, and scratch made Chicken and Biscuits. $20+; Mondays – Sundays, 6:30 am – 10:00 pm; Viceroy – 1819 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310.260.7511
Saturday
Monster Jam at SoFi Stadium With Alice Bamford, Founder of Malibu’s One Gun Ranch
Alice Bamford, owner of One Gun Ranch and JCB, is the official heavy equipment partner of Monster Jam this weekend. This collaboration introduces DIGatron, a competition truck that embodies JCB’s strength and innovation. Champions will be crowned and legends made as Los Angeles becomes the 4th host city for the unrivaled Monster Jam World Finals® XXIII, featuring the largest collection of trucks and drivers ever to visit Southern California. Fans from around the globe will witness world-class drivers compete for championships in Racing, Freestyle, High Jump, and 2-Wheel Skills, highlighted by an exclusive gravity-defying stunt. The event begins with the biggest Monster Jam Pit Party fan experience of the year, where fans can meet drivers, see trucks up close, and enjoy family-friendly activities. The excitement continues on Sunday with a charity event supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Monster Jam Awards Show. Monster Jam drivers, both male and female, are trained athletes capable of executing backflips, vertical two-wheel skills, and racing at speeds up to 70 mph, pushing all limits to produce jaw-dropping action. The JCB Dancing Diggers, a hit for generations in England, will debut in California, bringing this iconic performance to a new audience. JCB’s involvement highlights our strong local presence through our esteemed dealer and the success of our Pot Hole Pro, a digger designed to fix potholes quickly. $48+; Saturday, 6:00 pm; 1001 South Stadium Drive, Inglewood, CA 90301
Last Weekend for the Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire
Hear ye, hear ye. Craving a taste of Elizabethan England without leaving LA? The Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire, renowned for its immersive historical reenactments and lively entertainment, wraps up its magical run this weekend! Don your finest garb (or a comfy t-shirt) and head to Irwindale for a final chance to joust with excitement, indulge in delicious feasts, and revel in the merriment of a bygone era. $21+; Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 7:00 pm; 15501 E. Arrow Highway, Irwindale, CA 91706; 626.969.4750
Celebrate The 35th Annual A Culinary Evening with the California Winemasters!
Cheers to Saturday, and to the 35th annual A Culinary Evening with the California Winemasters! This year’s celebration at the iconic Midwest Street Backlot at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, promises to be a culinary extravaganza like no other and is set to attract approximately 1,200 wine and food enthusiasts, all coming together to support Cystic Fibrosis research and care. The event proudly announces Glenn Salva, Estate Director for Antinori Napa Valley, and Sam Marvin, Chef & CEO of Echo & Rig Steakhouse in Sacramento, and Las Vegas, as this year’s Honorary Co-Chairmen. Their commitment to this cause adds a distinctive touch to an already illustrious event. A Culinary Evening with the California Winemasters has earned its place as a WINE SPECTATOR “Top 10 Charity Wine Auction” and a BizBash Top 100 Event. The evening will showcase the talents of over 50 Celebrated Chefs and Restaurateurs alongside 75 Award-Winning Wineries and Winemakers. With local Angeleno’s and guests from across the county in attendance, this year’s event promises an unforgettable experience for all. $400+; Saturday, 5:30 – 10:00 pm; Warner Bros. Studios – Gate 7 – Forest Lawn Drive, Burbank, CA 91522
Sunday
The 9th Annual MAINopoly: A Taste of Main Street Returns to Santa Monica
Today, the 9th Annual MAINopoly: A Taste of Main Street returns to Santa Monica to support local businesses and to raise money for the Main Street Business Improvement Association. This all-ages, pet-friendly tasting experience is an interactive twist on the classic board game Monopoly, offering a culinary walking tour of Santa Monica’s Main Street. MAINopoly allows attendees to exchange their “MAINopoly dollars” for tastings at over 20 of the street’s best restaurants, bars, and eateries. Once the players complete their official game board and make their way to every location, they can win a “Taste of Main Street” Prize Pack valued at $1,000. Other activities include “Go To Jail” Beer Garden with brews from Venice Duck Brewery, beverages from Dulce Vida Tequila and JuneShine, food from Pasjoli and Papille Gustative, DJ, lawn games, “Just Visiting” photo booth, free rides up and down the street courtesy of Green Goddess Pedicabs, pet adoption from the VCA, and more board game-inspired fun! $30 (general admission) $60 (VIP), and $20 (kids ages 5 – 12); Sunday, 1 – 5:00 pm; Main Street (5 blocks between Strand Ave. and Pier Ave.) Check-In – The Victorian / California Heritage Museum Lawn – 2640 Main St. Santa Monica, CA 90405
On Sale Now
On Sale Now (5/24 – 5/26): Memorial Day Weekend Getaway: Newport Beach Wine Festival
This Memorial Day Weekend, Balboa Bay Resort proudly kicks off the summer season with the return of the Newport Beach Wine Festival. Set against the waterfront backdrop of the luxury resort, the 19th Annual Newport Beach Wine Festival will offer an impressive lineup of premium wineries and distributors, Veuve Clicquot Champagne Brunch, Justin Winery Limited Release Wine Dinner, world-class cuisine, live music, and so much more over the three-day event. Guests reserving a room for the Wine Festival over Memorial Day Weekend will enjoy a 10% discount on guest room rates and a 10% discount on festival tickets. Balboa Bay Resort has partnered with luxury electric vehicle brand Lucid Motors to offer complimentary chauffeur rides from its Fashion Island studio. Due to limited parking, guests are encouraged to utilize this service as well as ride-sharing services. Balboa Bay Resort – 1221 West Coast Highway Newport Beach, CA 92663
- 5/24 JUSTIN Winery Limited Release Wine Dinner: The ticketed event commences on 5/24 with a JUSTIN Winery Limited Release Wine Dinner, an exquisite four-course dinner hosted by Balboa Bay Resort’s Executive Chef Prabeen Prathapan and Master Sommelier Joseph Spellman. At this seated event, JUSTIN will reveal for the first time its new wines from outside of Paso Robles—Sonoma County Chardonnay and Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. Guests are in for a treat at this seated event within the resort’s Lighthouse Room, which offers sweeping views of Newport Harbor. $310.98
- 5/25 Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival: The Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival will showcase a Grand Tasting of over 40 of the resort’s favorite wine and spirits vendors, complemented by live music, bountiful buffet stations, and breathtaking bay views. Participating vendors include DAOU, Whispering Angel, Flecha Azul, Macallan, and more. The festival runs from 1 -5:00 pm and will unfold in the Lighthouse Room, extending onto the boardwalk and Bayfront Lawn overlooking the marina, yachts, and Lido Island. $150+
- 5/26 Veuve Clicquot Champagne Brunch: The Veuve Clicquot Champagne Brunch will conclude the weekend events. Held in the Lighthouse Room, the extravagant buffet will feature fresh seafood and caviar along with traditional brunch favorites, a carving station, an omelet station, and live music while Veuve Clicquot champagne flows. $145+
On Sale Now (6/2): Visionary Women Hosts “GenV Summit” With Leaders From APL, Forma Pilates + more!
Los Angeles’ premier social impact non-profit organization for women, Visionary Women, will host their annual “GenV Summit” open to the public to join on Sunday, 6/2 in Santa Monica. The event will include a panel discussion highlighting female founders and executives with a focus on how to start and grow a business and the role of women in philanthropy. This event will provide a space for trailblazing women in Southern California to gather for an empowering morning while learning from and networking with each other over breakfast and coffee. GenV, the younger cohort of Visionary Women, focuses on cultivating the next wave of female visionaries. Members gain access to unique social events, Visionary Women’s mentorship program, group volunteer events to better the organization’s LA community, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded women to progress personal & professional networks. Featured speakers on the panel include: Danielle Robay, Liana Levi (Forma Pilates), Natasha Moor (Natasha Moor Cosmetics), NJ Falk (APL), and Nyakio Grieco (Thirteen Lune & Relevant). Additional speakers will be announced in the coming weeks. $125; 6/2, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm; Santa Monica Proper Hotel – 700 Wilshire Boulevard Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310.620.9990
On Sale Now (6/9): Sip, Savor & Celebrate The 50th Annual AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival!
AbilityFirst proudly announces the 50th Annual AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival, coming up on Sunday, 6/9, and in celebration of this milestone, the event will take place at a new and enchanting location: The Urquhart Residence in South Pasadena! Some of this year’s AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival restaurants and desserts include Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, Alexander’s Steakhouse, Beard Papa’s, Bone Kettle, El Cholo Café, Gale’s Restaurant, Kensington Caterers, Lord Empanada, Marina, Mi Piace, Nothing Bundt Cake, Pocha LA, Porto’s Bakery, Stems: Cheese, Charcuterie & Catering, Tam O’Shanter, The George, We Olive & Wine Bar, and more. Beverages featured include cocktails and spirit tastings from 1886 at The Raymond, Dulce Vida Tequila, Empress 1908 Gin, Gerlach’s, Knox & Dobson, and Old Hillside Bourbon Company; craft beer from Golden Road Brewing, San Gabriel’s Ogopogo Brewing, along with specially curated wines from Caymus Vineyards, Navarro Vineyards, and Riboli Family of San Antonio Winery. Non-alcoholic beverages will be provided by Celsius, and PepsiCo. For 98 years, AbilityFirst has been at the forefront of providing person-centered programs to empower individuals with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. These programs guide individuals through each life transition, fostering social connections, independence, and providing essential employment preparation, training, and experience. $250+; 6/9, 5 – 8:00 pm; The Urquhart Residence – address to be disclosed upon purchase of ticket; 626.243.4852
