Weekly Roundup of Things to Do in Los Angeles
Monday
Chicas Tacos Unveils New Shrimp Taco and Vegan Queso
Just when you thought Chicas Tacos couldn’t get any better, the popular taqueria adds a delicious new Shrimp Taco and Vegan Queso to the menu. Founded by James Beard nominated chef Eduardo Ruiz, Chicas is known for “Bold yet balanced tacos rooted in Mexican tradition made fresh daily with better ingredients and wrapped in love.” The Shrimp Taco starts with your choice of Non-GMO corn tortilla or Michelin Bib Gourmand Mejorado Flour Tortilla. The shrimp are marinated and grilled to perfection before being topped off by Morita Lime Aioli shaved cabbage, pickled red onion, and cilantro. Pair your taco with Chips and Plant-Based Queso. Chicas adds Abbot’s Butcher Plant Based Chorizo to their staple queso for an explosion of yummy goodness. $5.49+; Various hours and locations
Everytable Opens Chatsworth Store
Everytable opens a new store in Chatsworth. The mission-driven food company provides healthy and nutritious food that is accessible and affordable for everyone. The company sells fresh-prepared meals priced according to the neighborhood. Menu highlights include Southwest Chipotle Chicken Bowl, Trap Kitchen Curry Chicken, Homegirl Salmon Adobo, Elote Caesar Salad, and Rotini Bolognese. $8.55+; Monday – Friday, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm and Saturday, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm; 9847 N. Mason Ave., Chatsworth, CA 91311; 323.739.1464
Patio Dining for Late Summer Shenanigans at North Italia Irvine
Whether indulging in a post-work happy hour, date night, or weekend brunch, North Italia Irvine welcomes you to dine al fresco on the lush outdoor patio. Enjoy the summer breeze as you feast on Heirloom Tomato & Burrata, Cacio e Pepe Pizza, and Squid Ink Mafaldine. Complete your meal with North Italia’s array of libations, including Pomegranate Mule, Fiore Scarletto, the Ginger Blossom Margarita, and the limited-edition Smoky Sunset. $18+; Sunday – Thursday, 11:00 am – 10:00 pm and Friday – Saturday, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm; 2957 Michelson Dr., Irvine, CA 92612; 949.629.7060
Sugar Palm Launches New Menus and Luxury Beach Picnics
Sugar Palm, the indoor-outdoor coastal dining and bar concept at Viceroy Santa Monica, launches new menus and luxury beach picnics. Executive Chef Jason Francisco infuses line-caught seafood and market-fresh produce to bring you a vibrant brunch and dinner menu. New menu items include Vegan Hash, Cu-Banh Sandwich, Cauliflower Steaks, Seafood Bucatini, and Charred Octopus. Those who opt for a more intimate experience can choose the Cabana Chef Tasting Menu. The five-course meal ($100 per person, minimum of two per cabana max six) is presented by Chef Francisco in a private poolside cabana. Indulge on Watermelon Sashimi, Charred Octopus, and his signature Deconstructed Cheesecake. Available 3 – 7:00 pm. For reservations, please call the restaurant or email sp@sugarpalmoceanave.com. And for those wanting to dine on the beach, grab a fully stocked picnic basket ($95, feeds 2) of Assorted Cheeseboard, Fruit Bowl, Crudité Platter, and Virgin Bloody Mary Mix or Virgin Mojito Mix. $26+; Monday – Sunday, 6:30 am – 10:00 pm; Viceroy Santa Monica – 1819 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310.260.7511
VEA Newport Beach Reveals New Food and Beverage Experiences
Newly opened VEA Newport Beach launches its three new dining concepts from Executive Chef Andrew Arndt and Director of Food & Beverage Randy Bloomquist. Guests and locals can dine in the full-service View Restaurant & Lounge, which features a California Cuisine in a cozy but elegant setting. The Crispy Confit Chicken and Lobster Roll are a must-try. For those coffee and sweet tooth lovers, European-inspired coffee bar and patisserie Elan Café & Bar is the place for you. The Avo Toast and Housemade Fruit “Pop Tart” are delicious. If vibrant views are what you desire, terrace bar Edge Bar Pool & Bar offers picturesque views of the Newport Beach Country Club golf course and ocean while you dine poolside. The menu consists of California-inspired bites, like the Tres Tacos and Maki Sushi Rolls. Monday – Sunday, Various prices and hours; Marriott Resort & Spa – 900 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, CA 92660
Mark Your Calendars (8/27): Summer Taste Series at Jean-Georges Beverly Hills
Jean-Georges Beverly Hills, the signature restaurant at the Waldorf Astoria, is hosting a second cooking class and dining experience as part of the Summer Taste Series. The intimate live demonstration showcases two signature Summer dishes, led by Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills’ executive chefs. The first dish presented will be Seared Hamachi, taught by Executive Chef, Peleg Miron. The second dish demonstration will be Ricotta Gnocchi, led by Executive Sous Chef, Alan Chang. After the cooking tutorials, dine on a decadent 3-course lunch and succulent summer cocktails. $95 (per person); Saturday (8/27), 11:00 am; Waldorf Astoria – 9850 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90210; 310.860.6666
Wednesday
Caldo Verde Presents an Evening Inspired by Gabrielle Hamilton’s Prune
Portuguese-inspired restaurant Caldo Verde welcomes you to a special evening celebrating Gabrielle Hamilton’s highly acclaimed East Village restaurant Prune and the cookbook of the same name. Helmed by James Beard Foundation Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Stynewarm, this special dinner features Deep Fried Shrimp Toasts, Pastrami Duck Breast, Roasted Rabbit, Razor Clams, Lemon Panna Cotta, and more. Prices vary; Wednesday, 5 – 10:00 pm; Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel (Ground Floor) – 1100 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015; 213.806.1023
Thursday
Corner Bakery Celebrates National Panini Day with BOGO Offer
It’s National Panini Day, and Corner Bakery is paying tribute to the delicious, warm Italian sandwich with a tasty BOGO offer. Today, those who purchase a Panini will receive a second one for free! Choose from the Anaheim or Bacon & Cheddar (breakfast), Rustic Italian, Club, or the popular Chicken Pomodori. $9.99+; Thursday, Various hours and locations
Valley Fright Nights, L.A.’s First Ever Summer Horror Event
Calling all horror fans! Halloween has come early thanks to Valley Fright Nights, L.A.’s First Ever Summer Horror Event. Get ready for 100,000 square ft. of thrills and frights, with three terrifying haunted houses, scare zones, food trucks, and horrifying fun! Please note no costume masks are allowed. $49 – $89 (use promo code FANDF “Feast & Fright” and get a $10 food truck voucher); Thursdays – Sundays (through 8/28), 8:00 pm – 12:00 am; Pierce College – 6201 Winnetka Ave., Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Friday
Celebrate Prime Video’s 30 Emmy Nominations with FYC Fest, a Weekend-Long Pop-Up Festival
Amazon invites you to celebrate Prime Video’s 30 Emmy Nominations with FYC Fest, a weekend-long pop-up festival taking place at three different locations throughout L.A. Pay homage to your favorite Amazon shows, like Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls, Lucy and Desi, and The Boys Presents: Diabolical, with a range of outdoor activations, food trucks, mini golf, creation station, photo opps, DJ, and a custom tote bag. Each day will rotate from Sherman Oaks to Santa Monica and, finally, West Hollywood. No RSVP is required, but first come, first served as space is limited. Free; Friday – Sunday, Please refer to schedule for hours and locations
Sunday
Gracias Madre’s Cookbook Launch With Afternoon Fiesta and Cocktail Demo
Love Gracias Madre’s delicious plant-based menu? Now you have the opportunity to make some of your favorite dishes at home, thanks to The Gracias Madre Cookbook. With over 125 simple, entirely plant-based recipes, including Calabaza & Onion Quesadillas, Coliflor with Cashew Nacho Cheese, and Coffee Flan, this cookbook is sure to satisfy all your cravings. To celebrate the launch, Gracias Madre is hosting an afternoon fiesta and cocktail demo. Your ticket includes a copy of the new cookbook, welcome cocktail, passed appetizers, cocktail demo, and a complimentary $25 Gracias Madre gift card which can be used the same day. $60; Sunday, 2 – 4:00 pm (Demo at 3:00 pm); 8905 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, CA 90069; 323.978.2170