Barcelona Nights

I recently saw Woody Allen's most recent film, Vicky Cristina Barcelona, which tells the story of two American tourists in their mid-twenties spending the summer of a lifetime in one of Spain's most dynamic and intriguing cities. Throw in a dashing Spaniard and his off-centered ex-wife, and you have a recipe for a love story Woody Allen could only tell, as evidenced by the film's trailer.

While this was not one of my favorite Woody Allen films (personally I think Match Point was his last big moment of genius). I am enchanted by the Catalan charms of Barcelona, and am reminded of my trip there nearly four years ago. The movie highlighted some of Barcelona's most famous attractions: Sagrada Familia, La Rambla, Gaudi's Home, and of course the rich nightlife and restaurant culture. I yearn to go back. I have to go back. If not for the patatas bravas, spanish wine, and serrano ham.


Although it may be a little bit before I can venture back to Spain, I am fortunate enough to be able to indulge in some delicious Spanish cuisine at La Paella, a restaurant that has been a staple of Los Angeles for many years, but I only recently discovered it a few months ago.

From the minute you enter La Paella, it's as if you have stepped back in time to Old World Spain. There are lace curtains on the windows, the restaurant is cozy and intimate, and the food is as authentic as you can get. I recommend the spanish omlette and patatas bravas as tapas starters, the paella for an entree, and a delicious pear soaked in red wine for dessert. And of course, we can't forget the Sangria.


Until we meet again dear Barcelona, I will settle good Spanish cooking right around the corner at La Paella.

Presidents Past and Present

This picture is all sorts of interesting. Not only do we have a father and a son, but we have our first elected black president, a president who was a peanut farmer, and a president who was known for playing the sax (among other things of course).


Now, everyone looks like they are having a good time, Barack looks professional and ready to take the reins. But little George W. Bush, why oh why must you look so confused? You had this look throughout your very lengthy presidency, and even in the last few days in office, you still haven't figured it out yet.


Change is good. I'm glad change is here.

A little taste of Mexico in the heart of LA

I haven't been to Mexico, unless you count Cabo San Lucas.  Mexico has been high on my list of places to visit, and considering it's not that far away from California, it's a wonder why I haven't been there already.  But I digress.

There are tons of wonderful Mexican restaurants in the LA/OC area - Taco Mesa, El Cholo, Viva Fresh...but when you want a kitschy bar with the best tequila in town, head over to El Carmen.

El Carmen is hard to miss, with it's bright neon sign illuminating 3rd Street.  Enter the bar and you are greeted by posters of vintage mexican comics, luchadores, and bamboo fans.  It's a little escape from the hustle and bustle that is the daily grind.

One thing that El Carmen is most famous for is their extensive tequila collection.  Now, I'm not a big tequila fan myself, but their blood orange margaritas and tequila infused shrimp are to die for.

But don't take my word for it - make your way over to El Carmen to experience it for yourself.

Who Needs a Movie?

This seriously made my day..

ONLY in France. This is why I love the French people. Who else would think to scale a wall for pure enjoyment and the adrenaline rush? Sure, it's been done in America, but this guy is known as Spiderman.

It's Friday

And I want one of these. Car seat not included.

Allergy Free Dining in LA

For many (including myself) finding an appropriate place to eat if you have a food allergy can be quite daunting. And for us allergy sufferers who cannot find an appropriate place, we spend our time annoying waiters and chefs by interrogating them on every last ingredient that goes into our respective meal.

Enter Manis. A safe haven for allergy suffers. Not only do they use fresh organic ingredients, they also cater to gluten, dairy, soy, and corn allergies- just to name a few. They also use natural sugars such as agave nectar and pure cane sugar to sweeten foods, instead of preservatives. And the best part of all- it tastes good!


I have eaten at Mani's a few times now, and while I have not yet tried their desserts, I was quite impressed with the sandwich and salad selection. I hope to venture one day up Fairfax in the morning for a delicious breakfast treat and a nice cup of tea (all corn syrup free!!)

For those interested in some wholesome goodness, check out the link below:

http://www.manisbakery.com/