Not to be crass, but some a- hole brought donuts into work today. I really think donuts in the workplace should be illegal.
The store the donuts came from is called Donut Friend. WTF? Donuts have never been our friends, nor will they ever BE our friends. These are so freakishly delicious though, I’ve decided i’m renaming the store “Donut Frenemy”. They are literally impossible not to eat. I’m proud of myself- i only had a tiny sliver….. of six different flavors….. but hey, it still ended up only being a quarter of a donut!
The Polar Berry Club. Ridiculous. I love and hate you Donut “Friend”. An irresistibly delicious petit gateaux circulaire (maybe if I say it in french, the calories won’t count). I mean look at it! Its gorgeous.The JavaBreaker. A coffee infused cake donut with an espresso bean glaze. Both pics from Donut Friend’s website. BTW- they also, apparently, have a build your own donut. I will never visit this store- unless maybe after I run a marathon. Or……
I’m happy for you, Mr. Crew member, and delighted to celebrate your one year anniversary with the team. But next time can you please bring in a veggie tray?
xoxo
QJ
PS. Isn’t it perfect I posted this after an article about the significance of working out??
Last year I had the honor of attending a private back yard performance of La Sylphide by the La Ballet. Beautifully surreal.
These are words I’ve heard a lot in my lifetime; “But I don’t have time to work out”. I’ve heard them from my own mouth, my friends mouthes, and random other people’s mouthes. I get it. Believe me- I TOTALLY get it! But as we age, finding time to workout is so imperative to our physical AND mental health.
I recently had to nurse an injury and its interesting how we forget how much better we feel when we’re working out regularly. Its so easy to get in that rut and just be lazy. But honestly, once I started to work out again within a week I started feeling better. After two weeks I started feeling great. And now I feel younger, more awake, more mentally crisp. My friends can attest for the positive shift in my mood. You want to know the true fountain of youth? I think its exercising!
Why do we need to exercise?
Movement keeps us young and happy! No one says it better than Elle:
I’m no expert, nor do I truly understand (yet) the science behind it all, but I’ve been doing a lot of reading on aging and centenarians who have maintained amazing quality of life. One top commonality between these centenarians that differentiates them from others (and their younger counterparts who are not doing so well) is movement. And we’re not just talking scooting your chair from one side of the room to the fridge to grab a beer, but actually getting up, going outside, and going for a walk.
Exercise prevents aging. Its a real-life vampire. Actually even better. Working out slows down the process of aging without making us crave a blood cocktail. When we work out and move our bodies, we increase certain hormones that fight off inflammation, depression, and metabolic dysfunction.
There are many forms of exercise:
You hate the gym? Ok. Who cares? There are SO many ways to exercise. The key is- find something that you love to do that requires movement.
Example: I LOVE ballet. I’m practically obsessed with it. Its definitely an addiction- but its a “healthy” addiction. As long as you find something you really enjoy and look forward to doing, it becomes easier to find time to fit it in.
I wake up super early in order to make it to my 8 am pre work ballet class. As hard as it is to get up, I love ballet so much that I’m able to motivate myself to push through. Once I started back into my workouts, I immediately noticed that having ballet in my day made everything else less difficult. Things that had been putting me in a stressed out tizzy began just roll of my back. Deep breath and I figure it out. Seriously. Its amazing. (I better read this if/when I get stuck taking another break from my workouts).
Ballet class is the one time during the day when I can (oddly) relax. I allow myself to become one with the music. I shut off my mind from the rest of whats going on in my life and I meditate on dance. Even stretching is a form of exercise.
A list of some light aerobic movements you may have never considered exercise(some of these are from an article I found on Nerd Fitness):
Flying a kite has to count! Its another zen activity that could actually be considered exercise.
Hiking/Walking with a friend (this can include your four legged furry friend)– its so funny in LA people consider walking up a hill at Roy Rogers park a hike. haha. For us hiking enthusiasts we know this is just an uphill walk. But whatever – its an uphill walk. Its fun. It gets you out doors. Its exercise you may not hate.
I always look forward to going for nature walks with my beautiful babies, Stanley and Abby. Especially when I’m stressed. It helps me cleanse my mind. I love to breathe in the beauty of my surroundings. I’m reminded there’s so much more out there than whatever it is that is worrying me that day. Stanley pictured here.
Larping – Live Action Role Playing. Might seem silly to those on the outside, but to those playing, it’s an amazing adventure that reminds us how awesome our imaginations are. Also, depending on the game, you could be wearing a heavy costume, swinging heavy weaponry, and running for your life! – this sounds fun. Uh oh. Sounds kinda fun. Should I try it??
Geocaching – Geocaching is a adventure nerd’s dream brought to life. Become a real life treasure-hunter (Lara Croft? Nathan Drake? You decide!), and get a great workout in while you’re at it.
Play a musical instrument – Did you know playing the violin for an hour burns about as many calories as walking around a track for an hour? It turns out our brains can burn boatloads of calories too. So challenge your brain!
Fly a kite– not sure this really counts but seems like it could. Walking to the area you fly it. Standing up and holding your arms up. It has to count!
The advanced students at the ballet academy in Burbank.
Want to look and feel cute for your workout??
Having workout clothes that you feel good in definitely helps motivate! To look chic but not “hi, I’m here to pick up dudes” at the gym, Danielle suggests Michiand Heroine Sportactive wear :).
I own these Michi jogging pants. I love them! They are light weight and feel like silk. They wick away moisture well and breathe comfortably during the workout too. Also, BONUS! They are super flattering to boot! (and to the bootY! hee hee).I am loving this Heroine Sport top! Time to call Danielle…. Active wear available at Saks or contact @styledbydanielleklein for purchasing help.
So, with all that being said- lets get out there and in the immortal words of Nike “Just do it!’
Emmy’s season is still so exciting for me. I love the whole process- the voting, the mixers, the awards show, the ball. Sadly I won’t be attending this year but the reason is a good one- I’ll be in Hawaii! Yay! I’m so proud to be part of such a talented team of artists, creatives, and executives. I’m also proud to be a member of the Television Academy and hope to be on the board one day! I think that would be so cool.
Necklace: Vendome Earrings: Micheal KorsI was so excited to have an event to which I could wear my favorite dress. I just love how its simultaneously so feminine and (quietly) sexy.
While Taylor Swift and Kayne West prepped for their VMA weekend, MSM and I excitedly and happily enjoyed this past Friday evening at the 2015 Emmy Nominee’s Mixer on the rooftop of the stunning Beverly Hills Montage (more about this amazing hotel another time).
The rooftop party was so lively the montage couldn’t get rid of us when it was time to shut down!Here I am with Ms Emmy herself 🙂
As per usual, this party was so much fun! Every night last week each peer group had a mixer on this rooftop. Friday night was for animation and children’s television. I loved running into and catching up with colleagues that I haven’t seen in a while, enjoying a drink with my current team (they feel like family in a good way), and meeting new friendly faces that work in our field.
I always love talking with the talented and fun Heather Crowe.Some of my fellow Regular Show Crew members holding their Emmy Nomination certificates.
Madeo:
To stick to tradition, after the mixer MSM and I enjoyed a delicious meal at Madeo. Last year we were seated at a table right next to Mick Jagger, Jimmy Fallon, and a bunch of other people. Not sure why, but that was fun. I guess since MJ is like a huge rock god from back in the day. Is he still considered a rock god? I feel like yes, maybe he is?
Food:
This year we were not let down. No celebs (I guess the rock people were all resting for the VMAs), but honestly who cares about that? As per usual, the food was AMAZING. From the delicately oiled and herbed focaccia bread to the in-house baked deserts, all the food at Madeo is fabulous. Order anything on the menu- you won’t be disappointed. This time we started with the Tricolore salad (fantastic). For our main course we shared the Veal Scallopini with a side of spaghetti Bolognese (party in the mouth good) all paired with a crisp Chardonnay. This is the kind of food that tastes so good it makes you immediately sit back and say “mmmmm” just as the first bite hits your tongue.
Ambiance:
With the intimate but casual ambiance and the upscale but family feel of this place, we always love it at Madeo. If you ever have a chance, you have to go here. Here’s a link so you can make a reservation: Madeo
What to wear to an Emmy’s Mixer:
If I could marry a clutch, it would be this Celine. I’m obsessed! And it converts into a shoulder bag if desired. Love!
So many compliments on my shoes!! Thanks Danielle! xoxo
This is a funny story. My fashion fairy godmother sent me a dress for this mixer via next day fed ex. And apparently “next day” actually means three days to Fed Ex because the dress didn’t arrive on time. At all. In fact, it arrived Saturday night. Make note of this in case you ever rush order something for a special event. On Thursday evening, and still no dress I had a split second of freaking out. Then I reached out to one of my BFFs. Together we perused my wardrobe and decided my favorite dress – that I hardly ever get to wear- could work for this mixer! I excitedly texted it to Danielle. Me: “Can I wear this?” (pic attached) Danielle:”YES!” Me: “Whoot!”
Dress:SunoShoes:Stewart WeitzmanClutch: Celine
Just an FYI – if you want to read a great blog article about the VMAs, check out Style Domination – Dominque is hilarious and her review is right on target.
Don’t forget to watch the Creative Arts Emmy’s on Sept 12th! Best of luck to all my fellow nominees! Lets win this one!!! Whoot!
When I received this letter I thought “this ought to be interesting”. Love Alaia!
Azzedine Alaia – one of my favorite statement designers:
Lets face it, I’m a sucker for all things French, and their fashion is not exempt. I adore how they have so gracefully mastered the art of marrying simplicity and quiet elegance. Never over dressed, but never underdressed either, French women just know how to put things together.
When Danielle introduced me to my first Alaia, my reaction was “seriously? that much for a pair of shoes?” BUT….I now know better.
“Oh no, you don’t understand, this is an Alaia”. “an a whata?” “An Alaia. Its like a totally important designer!” From Clueless- one of the best movies ever!!
Azzedine Alaia was Tunisian-born, but his brand is Parisian. He started as an assistant dress maker and went on to become one of the most iconic and important designers of the 20th (and now 21st century). Whether a shoe, a handbag, or a garment- his pieces are always classy. They can make an ordinary outfit go from basic to zing just by showing up. Yes, the price is high- but the quality, fit, and longevity are there. A pair of Alaia shoes, for example, will wear like-new for many seasons (and they are surprisingly comfortable!). His handbags are always ageless and classy. Alaia pieces are sexy without being ostentatious. Don’t get me wrong, I love my YSL dress clutch, despite the the huge Y S L blatantly showing in front. But the Alaia? Its this gorgeous piece of art without saying “Hi, I’m a designer bag and I cost a fortune.” Its classic. Its elegant. Its demure. Its mysterious. LOVE!!!
Alaia sandals can dress up a casual outfit just enough to make it pop. They are well made and comfortable too!Aren’t these Alaia clutches gorgeous? For purchasing info please contact @styledbydanielleklein on Instagram.
Statement Pieces 101:
Just recently I learned there are three categories of clothing that are essential in making a complete wardrobe (I used to only own #3 and always had nothing to wear- which makes total sense to me now):
#1 Basics: tees, tanks, layering pieces
#2 Staples: jeans, blazers/jackets/cardigans
#3 Statement pieces– varies on individual choice. The piece thats thrown in the mix to make outfits pop and, well, make a statement. The “art” pieces of your wardrobe. I love my Alaia shoes as statement pieces.
When to start adding a statement piece:
Like in any sport or art, its imperative to learn the fundamentals before one can have fun. Once you master putting together a basic outfit (I’m still working on this), you can start throwing statement pieces into the mix. Have fun with it and chose what you want. I think the point of the statement piece is to express who you are OR who you want to be at the time/that particular day.
Disclaimer– be careful- statement pieces can be the most fun and act as an expression of who you are or who you feel like being that particular day, but a wardrobe consisting solely and entirely of statement pieces will result in mayhem. #learnedfromexperience. (*embarrassing blush)
Outfitting the statement piece:
I need to confirm with Danielle, but it seems some people choose to wear a lot of statement pieces at once (google Iris Apfel “more is more”), and other’s prefer a single piece at a time (ex. Jackie O). The other day MSM saw this woman at the gym carrying a 2k+ Louis Vuitton bag in which laid all her stinky used gym clothes. Seems extravagant to me. But a big point of fashion is to each his own, right? Its ok to make your own rules. These are just guidelines.
Looking rock and roll chic for the Opus Orange concert in my Alaia booties.
Spend on a statement piece? Its all relative and up to you!
Its not really about the money. Statement pieces can come in all shapes and sizes. In order to prevent buying something cheaply made and over priced, though (and those pieces are definitely out there!), its wise to learn how to distinguish good craftsmanship and quality fabrics. For now, I’m protected by Danielle. But its smart to learn this on our own too.
A statement tank. I love anything French. Styled by Danielle Klein.
Quite a lens flair! It was at least 95 degrees already- and only 8:30am!
The other day MSM came up with the fantastic idea of a “before work date”. He sent me the link to an estate sale in Beverly Hills and said, “We should do this!” Having never been to an estate sale before, I was super excited. Especially since this particular sale was at the home of former Miss America (1959) and actress, Mary Ann Mobley (imagine the tiaras and handbags she must have!!!) and her actor husband, Gary Collins.
Miss America 1959 Mary Ann Mobley was the first Mississippian to be crowned Miss America. She was an active philanthropist, actress, and film maker until her death in 2014. Her husband, Gary Collins, was also an actor. They have one daughter (Mary) and one son (Guy).
Visiting the company’s website PacificEstateSales.Com prior to the sale proved to be the most interesting and helpful to me. The website included a synopsis explaining whose estate this was, a photo gallery exhibiting featured pieces that were available for sale, and contact info in case there were questions about anything. When I called to ask about an Hermes handbag (it was a knock off), Pacific Estate Sales founder/owner, Diana Nichols, suggested we get there as early as 8:30 if we wanted first dibs on things.
We woke up super early, jumped into our cars and hugged the curves along Mulholland drive until we arrived at the beautiful estate perched on its own peak in the heart of Beverly Hills. We parked below the estate (a shuttle was provided to take us up to the main house). Surprisingly by 8:30 am there were already 45 OTHER early birds hoping to catch the proverbial worm. MSM and I both wondered which items the other people were after. We were looking for LP records, books, and artwork. Also we loved a set of chairs that had been featured on the website.
The Estate:
The Mobley estate was seriously gorgeous. Up the drive to the left was a beautiful plot of land that looked like its own park. Across the drive sat the “cute” yellow home, juxtaposed with the contrasting blue water of the front yard pool, all ensconced by a white picket fence. The home and yard seemed extremely inviting, with festive lawn furniture sprinkled around the area.
I wish I had dressed a bit more 1950’s in honor of the former Miss America. Although I was over dressed as it was 😦 As Danielle says- I’m still learning 🙂 Chanel Sandals available from @styledbydanielleklein on Instagram.
All that charm aside, apparently people can be so nasty and crazy when it comes to estate sales. First of all, I felt like I was at one of those wedding gown sales you read about. You know the ones- where your smashed against the window with 50 other people until the doors open and you get trampled? Secondly, no one, and I mean NO ONE, had read the bio explaining whose house this was. I honestly don’t think they cared. For me it meant so much that I knew she was Miss America and a philanthropist who, along with her actor husband, contributed so much to making the world a better place. Everyone else? They could care less. They just wanted “cool stuff” for “cheap” – and they made that very evident.
When we finally were allowed in the estate (they only allowed 5 people in at a time) we enjoyed walking around and looking at the architecture and interior design. She had the most incredible bathroom. It was painted a dusty soft blue, highlighted with beautiful white molding and a mirrored ceiling! We peaked in each room and enjoyed taking a moment to breathe in the atmosphere and think what it must have felt like to be Mary Ann and Gary.
Mirrors in the bathroom, interesting views. Ha. But I adore the color blue she picked.
What to buy:
The library was extensive, but no books that we really wanted. The record collection was fun- and all at 2$/piece so we picked up a few of those as well as a painting set that we had both admired on the website. No tiaras or handbags of significance (obviously her daughter took those- duh!). We really wanted the chair set but a. we weren’t equip with proper transportation and b. we had to run off to work! So we wrote down the name of the chairs- Marcel Breuer/Wassily, and ventured back into our reality.
There were some great recods in here. We found an original of the first released Star Wars album in mint condition but sans poster (yes, I’m a Star Wars nerd!!!). We had to snatch that up right away. We loved this gorgeous light fixture. Its a great example of the unique things one can find at an estate sale.
During the day we both researched Marcel Breuer and the Wassily chairs. We discovered these chairs were iconic pieces of history and originals! Knowing the providence (and after speaking with my designer friend who said “we will find you a townhome to fit the chairs, GET THEM!”)- we decided they were the gem of the sale. So I called Diana and emailed her to let her know we wanted them and would pick them up ASAP. The sale was three days and Diana was gracious enough to hold the chairs for us 🙂
A word about Pacific Estate Sales:
I must take a moment to say that Diana was wonderful. She is so knowledgeable and passionate about her estate sales and the featured pieces. Going to her sale was like going back in time, and she was wonderful about supplying the historical information needed to really understand where we were standing. I also loved how honest she is (ex the Hermes was a knock off and she didn’t hide that). She was friendly, not snobby, which I really appreciate. Its funny how I’ve encountered so many stuck up self-entitled people that work with but are not actually part of the LA elite. And on the flip side- most of the LA elite I’ve met have been friendly and humble. I’m putting Diana in the latter category.
The Wassily chairs. Whoot! What a score!
In sum the estate sale was a huge success. We enjoyed an early morning date that was like taking a trip back in time and amped our energy for the rest of the day. I would definitely visit another estate sale. Its a great way to find unique pieces for your home. Personally I’ll stick to ones that seem historically interesting to me. But hey- whatever floats your boat. If getting “cool s*** for a great price” is your thing- check them out! You can look at Diana’s site (link above) or visit EstateSales.net
What to Wear to an Estate Sale:
It was HOT up in the hills! And all those people in close proximity? We were drenched in our work clothes. Dress casually (I was way over dressed). Also – no hand bags or large over coats. Cash and checks are best. Keep in mind theres a 9% sales tax on all sold items, too.
How totally exciting! My first theatrically released feature premiered last Friday at the Downtown Independent. Red carpet and all!
Where to eat in LA’s Historic District?
Prior to pre-party cocktails, my adopted brother and I met at Baco Mercat.
The Moxie from Baco Meracat.
I can’t recommend this place enough. It has kind of a hipster vibe which may or may not be for you, but the food is EXQUISITE. The ambiance is cool and breezy. There is an indoor and outdoor seating option, both cozy and relaxed. The acoustics are great in here so the talk levels are comfortable. This place is mostly known for baco, a signature flatbread sandwich developed by chef Josef Centeno. The baco is yummy, but seriously, ALL the food is SO good. Its a sharing menu kind of place- four plates/pair is perfect. This time we tried the spicy cauliflower (amazing), the brussel sprouts (amazing), the carne picada coca (amazing), and the hamachi crudo (you guessed it, amazing). They also have a great selection of specialty drinks. I sipped the Moxie; bourbon, cynar, lime juice, agave, mole bitters, which was delicious. Call for reservations or your wait will be long- however, its definitely worth the wait!
The Venue:
What a fun venue! Smack in the middle of the historic district of downtown LA, The Downtown Independent is known for hosting private screenings like ours, but apparently they also are available for weddings and other parties.
Story board artist, Owen, looking snazzy in his white tie. Tres chic en Vogue!
I loved hanging out and talking with everyone at the pre-screener, held in the theaters reception loby. Everyone looked super snazzy in their premiere attire. There was an open bar, including traditional movie theater candy and popcorn. Also available, non- traditional options like a “root beer” with 5% alcohol. Dangerously delicious!!
Yay Junior mints!
The concession crew was so nice and accommodating. I even got to go home with what was left of the popcorn, prepared by none other than Brazil, Indiana’s (home to Orville Redenbacher) Landon. I think he must have learned from Orville himself, because YUM. PERFECT ratio of salt to butter. Great work Landon! Interesting fact: popcorn doesn’t go stale- you can just reheat it in the oven at a low temp for a few minutes and BAM- its crunchy again!
The concession crew was super friendly and accommodating. Here’s a picture of Landon explaining how to freshen up “stale” popcorn.Is this not the biggest bag of popcorn you’ve ever seen??
The Film:
The film turned out amazing. I’m so proud of all of us. The story tracks, the graphics look incredible. I actually cried a little. Its a lot of work making a movie! I feel very proud and happy to have been a part of it. It will be a limited release at Alamo Draft House Theaters and NYC Comic Con in the fall. It will also air on Cartoon Network soon thereafter, followed by a DVD release with outtakes and fun bonus tracks. If anyones reading this- check it out!!! Meanwhile, I’m looking forward to making another movie soon.
Mordecai and Rigby silhouetted by the moonlight on the rooftop of the Downtown Independent. Even our characters got to have fun.
After Party:
Following the film there was an after party on the rooftop of the theater. Music + Aussie Pies + excited crew members. Hurrah!
What to Wear to a movie premiere:In the words of my fairy god mother, something “effortlessly chic”.
Walking the red carpet. This was much different than the Emmy’s, where your surrounded by press and a sea of celebrities. This felt more like a private party with a bunch of fun people you already know. Don’t get me wrong, the Emmys are amazing. But this party was really special. I love the details of this bag.Jaqui Aiche ear cuff available via @styledbydanielleklein. Photo: @mekaeldawson
Gown: Haute Hippie Shoes:Stewart Weitzman “The Nudist” Bag:YSL Jewelry:Designed by Jaqui Aiche Styled by: Danielle Klein
Dressing up for work can make a tough day seem more fun. Chanel wedges and Chocolate Toes. Is this not a current day mantra to replace Champagne wishes and Caviar Dreams?
Office attire. Sometimes it just feels good to dress up for work.I’m obsessed with this happy little bag.
Skirt:ALCWedges:Chanel Pair with a black tank, black silk and leather cropped jacket. I added a pop of color with my favorite Fendi hot pink handbag. For purchasing information contact @styledbydanielleklein and/or Saks
The other day I was driving home from work and, fancy that, I was cut off by a car that was crossing six lanes from the left to the right in order to get on the freeway. HOOOOONK! My thought “what the he….” was rudely interrupted by a blatant horn. I look to my right and this woman in a dilapidated Honda rolls down her window and starts talking. Now, over the years here I’ve learned rolling down your window to hear someone yell at you is a really bad idea. But, for some reason, like a naive country bumpkin from the mid west, I roll my window down. And I’m so glad I did. The woman yelling at me was not reprimanding or condescending. She was loudly asking “did you need to get on the freeway?” “Yes,” I responded “Did you see that man cut me off?” “Yes, honey. How RUDE! Go on ahead of me, I’ll let you in”.
Bless this woman’s heart. What a great reminder that there are truly some good people in this world and some of them DO live in Los Angeles. Maybe there’s a lot more angels here in the City Of Angels than we know. I think its time to start focusing more on good people, and stop wasting our time donating even one more ounce of energy to the negative ones. In the words of a wise friend:
LA can feel like a tough city. So much commotion. Bottleneck traffic. Everyone in a hurry to get nowhere and do nothing. Delusions of grandeur and self entitlement all around. Its not like the south. When I lived in Austin everyone was legitimately friendly. Here in LA no one thinks your crazy if you smile at them, but its certainly hard to find people that show their real selves above the 7th layer of their epidermis.
On the flip side, LA is an amazing land of opportunity. One can re-invent themselves as often as they like. The city is so disjointed that if you get sick of one area you can move to another and its tabula rasa. The weather is incredible. There is so much to do, indoors and out. Its a polyglot community full of vast cultures and sensitivities and yes, somewhere in the dark (or not so dark) corner of someplace, each and every one of us Angeleans eventually find some wonderful friends. If your new here- don’t give up!
Sunset over Abbott Kinney, Venice Beach.Why not? This girl is reinventing herself. LA is for all types.
I guess one can find angels anywhere, often in the most unlikely places and in all shapes and sizes. Sometimes YOUR “angel” may be someone else’s “crazy”, and that’s ok. Here’s a collage of photos of two of my favorite Angels:
xoxo
QJ
PS. I’m so excited I’ve discovered the way to change text colors! Advancement in blogging. Yay!
My last blog was a lot of food talk. And on that note…… last Tuesday a group of us went out to celebrate my friend’s birthday at the new location of Red O in Santa Monica. I’ve eaten at the one in Hollywood on Melrose (its fabulous) so was excited to try out the its new sister in SaMo. Lets compare…..
What to wear:
Ok so for this SaMo location I was totally over dressed. The location in Hollywood is sexy, dark, boudoir-y meets Casablanca. Cocktail attire is a bit much but could pass if you want to be one of those “I always over-dress” people. The SaMo location, however, is totally chill. Not sexy at all. Much more casually elegant. Business casual would have been great.
I wore my clover canyon pencil skirt with a black tank, thin leather jacket and black strappy heels. It would have been much more appropriate if I had dressed like my friends in jeans and a nice top.
I was definitely overdressed. Jeans and a tank would have been better.
What to order:
The wine is AMAZING at both locations. I had a fantastic Malbec. And the serving sizes are generous. The price wasn’t too high either. The cocktails looked pretty at the SaMo location but I was sticking with wine. The cocktails at the Hollywood/Melrose location were fantastic- and generous like the wine was here.
Appetizers at both locations are out of this world. Honestly, in my opinion, stick to the appetizers and your going to love both places. The guac is fantastic as are both salsas. The chips are thin and crispy, perfectly salted and not too greasy. At the Hollywood location I adored the mushroom tacos. At SaMo we all loved the Ahi taquitos.
Main course. I have to sadly say I was a little underwhelmed with my main course at the Red O in SaMo. In their defense I DID change the plate with substitutions. I ordered the scallops, but instead of pasta I had them put them on a bed of their asparagus. The asparagus was good, but nothing to write home about. Same with the scallops. They were sweet and the texture was perfect but the flavor was a bit bland. The lamb and the lobster enchiladas looked amazing and my friends seemed happy with them. The beans and rice- fantastic. The dinners I have had at the Melrose location were all fantastic. So maybe the trick here is to not substitute and when you eat here figure its a “Titanic day”.
Delicious.
Dessert. Churros y Chocolate. Um. YUM. Ok so you can’t really beat the ones at Disneyland – so I thought. These looked ridiculous on the plate but they were FANTASTIC. The churros themselves were decent. Not too greasy and the cinnamon sugar was perfectly balanced. They came with a Kahlua and a spicy chocolate dipping sauce. Not gonna lie- I do feel the churro was just a vehicle for the chocolate and Kahlua. I was tempted to pick up a spoon and just eat the sauces by themselves. Hee hee. And maybe I did 😉 I haven’t had dessert at the Red O on Melrose, but my guess is its spectacular.
Ambiance:
As I said, the Melrose location feels like a vacation to Morocco or just somewhere that’s NOT LA. Its a little Oasis of foreign in a huge sea of Los Angeles, a nice little escape. The lighting is moody. Big plants and planters all around. Nicely dressed people. It feels very sexy. Areas are compartmentalized at this location, which adds to the mystery vibe of the place and also helps contain the volume of talking to a decent level. No issues hearing the people with whom you are eating.
The SaMo location is very relaxed. The layout is nice and cozy. Theres a huge window in the front, displaying a fantastic view of Palisades Park and the Ocean. The seats are very comfortable. The booth seats are adorned with lush pillows that are very cozy. Its fairly loud at the SaMo location- which means you have to sit closer to your date. This is great if you really like who your with. Otherwise, learn sign language before you come here.
The interior of Red O SaMo is casual and relaxed.
Overall I like the ambiance and main courses better at the Red O in Hollywood/Melrose. But if you live close to SaMo, the Red O Santa Monica is a casual, fun spot with yummy drinks, appetizers and dessert, and a great view of the ocean.
Nothing like a home cooked meal straight from the kitchen of The Balboa Bay Beach Club. Ha ha. Why does food always taste best when you don’t cook it yourself?
All week I have been craving comfort food. Spaghetti with meat balls, macaroni and cheese, oatmeal raisin cookies. Yum! It made me think for a minute. I mean when we’re younger we are able to just eat whatever we want- add a little more cardio and BAM those extra calories are just gone. It seems (and unfortunately is scientifically proven) that once we hit about 35, shifts in hormones cause our metabolism to slow down. All of a sudden one extra macaroni noodle can add an ounce of fat onto each thigh. Not to worry my young padawans, I’m going to share a list I’ve created over the week that may help curb the cravings.
Sip hot tea or coffee.
Visit a friend in a near- by cubicle. Tell them you need a little break, ask them how they are doing and just listen to them. Sometimes getting your mind off of the craving (or whatever is causing it- see #4) miraculously causes it to disappear.
Most cliche but smart- keep healthy snacks by your desk at work. Nuts are great. I know, I know- eating a serving of nuts (like five nuts) is almost pointless to satiate an appetite. BUT, I promise you- eat them slowly and add a few apple slices and its like apple pie. Heat the apple up in the microwave and chop the nuts over it. Yum. Eat it slowly and really enjoy it- don’t just eat it while reading something on line. I think speed and paying attention/enjoying the food is key.
Probably the most important; therapist Caroline Madden, MFT suggests asking yourself “what is the root of the craving? Is it hormonal? Is it psychological?” I can see an advantage to thinking about the root here. Don’t over think it. “If its two days before that time of the month” Caroline says, “then it makes sense your craving chocolate.” If its psychological, #2 will work well for you. If you haven’t eaten in five hours, and your last meal was a piece of lettuce you may actually just be hungry- in which case #1 and/or #3 can help to hold you over until you can eat a real meal.
On the flip side, life is short. In the words of my adorable mother (who I believe was misquoting Erma Bombeck) “The women on the titanic should have had dessert”. Moderation is really the key here. Have some chocolate or cookies or pasta. Just don’t do it every day and don’t eat two pounds of it. If you are craving something that badly, decide if this is the day you want to have that bite. If it is, savor it and enjoy it. Seize the day!
Sprinkles Cupcakes!!Worth it.
PS According to my trainer, Josh Landis, working out regularly can slow down hormonal shifts and help us stay in shape as we age. He’s great- feel free to refer to his blog for articles and workout ideas- Landismovementsystems
If anyone is reading this and has other suggestions- please share. 🙂
Quintessential Jill 