Melrose Avenue is renowned throughout the world as one of Los Angeles’ most walkable and unique shopping, dining and entertainment destinations. Downtown Melrose encompasses the 22 blocks along Melrose Avenue that stretch from Fairfax to Highland. More than 300 alternative and independent stores offer a wide array of merchandise found nowhere else in the city.
Happening on Melrose
Our Sunny Winter Is Back And Love Is In The Air
Can you believe it’s almost Spring already? The sun is out, love is in the air, so let’s celebrate. Spring should be about enjoying the love you have in your life. We’ve put together the PERFECT gift guide because everything on it can be given to your significant other or (and this is valid) to yourself. Just head to Melrose Avenue and we’ll take care of you. COLD ROLLED ICE CREAM On these sunny wintry days, try a loving treat that makes your heart smile. Red Velvet Love is a multi-layered concoction of ½ a slice of red velvet cake, heart-shaped sprinkles, condensed milk, and whipped cream, topped with the other half slice. Make it even more special by having your sweetheart’s name spelled out with the drizzle. COLD ROLLED ICE CREAM 7266 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.452.0881 coldrolledicecream.com DOMAINE LA Can’t go wrong with a bottle of primo champagne from George Laval. This is an organic eco certified vineyard so you’re getting quality and ethics at the same time. Earthy and spicy, this is a not inexpensive but incredibly special bottle of bubbly. DOMAINE LA 6810 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90038 323.932.0280 domainela.com GROUNDLINGS The couple that laughs […]
21. Feb 2020
Best Tattoos Inked In The Melrose Arts District
It’s hard to keep up with the incredible tattoo work being done by the artists needling on Melrose Avenue, so we regularly use this space to highlight some of gorgeous new pieces. From delicate black stenciling to intricate fantasy scenes, the history of body art is revered by some, while boundaries are being completely disregarded by others – just how we like it! So, if you’re looking for traditional tattooing or have a wild idea in mind, no doubt an artist on Melrose can realize your unique vision. Enjoy doing your research and don’t forget to share your piece on IG and tag @melroseartsdistrict. BAMBOO TATTOO There’s definitely a mood at Bamboo Tattoo. These recent big cat portraits have captured the incredible movement and power of the mighty felines. And the incredible merging of blue-eyed beauty is most definitely a show piece. BAMBOO TATTOO 7664 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.348.9312 IG: @bambootattoola BLACK ANCHOR LA Black Anchor LA has a solid roster of artists. Here we’re highlighting Ricardo R17, whose pop culture and art portraits are stunning. From his weighty depiction of the god Poseidon to the vintage Monster couple and Patrick Bateman headshot, Ricardo gets all eras of […]
29. Jan 2020
Making A New Year’s Resolution? The Melrose Arts District Can Help!
According to the research, about 60% of people make New Year’s resolutions. That’s great, right? Well, only about 8% of us actually keep them. Whomp whomp. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try. Try! And to help you along in achieving your goal, the Melrose Arts District has your back. We took the top eight New Year’s resolutions and found some support right here on Melrose. BE MORE ECO FRIENDLY One of the best ways to keep clothes out of landfills and to cut the fast fashion habit is to buy second hand. American Rebel has the cutest vintage clothes – from sundresses to cowboy boots – for the whole hip family. AMERICAN REBEL 7474 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 https://www.instagram.com/americanrebelsociety/?hl=en EAT HEALTHIER Fresh, organic, and vegan – those are all qualities you want in heaping amounts on your healthy eating platter. Fala Bar is also delicious, so it’s a great choice for Middle Eastern cuisine including sandwiches, salads, and of course, falafel. FALA BAR 7751 1/2 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 https://falabar.com/ LEARN A NEW SKILL Art and science collide at the LA branch of international production school, Garnish. You can learn the art of electronic music as well as […]
10. Jan 2020
January To-Dos In The Melrose Arts District
The new year kicks off in the Melrose Arts District with some must-do events that illuminate the world-class creators that make us such a great destination for art and entertainment. From gallery openings to art walks, you’ll find yourself amused, excited, and inspired. And what better way to welcome in 2020? GALLERY 1988 Gallery 1988 starts 2020 much like it closed 2019, with fresh shows from the best pop-cult artists in the world. Opening January 10 are “30 Years Later” featuring artwork inspired by films from 1990, and “Memes” which is exactly that, but make them art. GALLERY 1988 7308 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 nineteeneightyeight.com GREENWAY COURT THEATRE Did you see any of the weekly “Da Poetry Lounge” shows in Greenway last year? Yes? Well, you’ll be happy to know the 2020 edition starts on Tuesday, January 7. If not, make this the year to FINALLY experience LA’s most memorable open mic night. GREENWAY COURT THEATRE 544 No. Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles 90036 greenwaycourttheatre.org MELROSE STREET ART TOUR If you think the art of Melrose is incredible to see, wait until you hear the stories behind the pieces. On January 25, spend ninety minutes with Mr. Felix, one of […]
7. Jan 2020
The Ultimate Melrose Arts District 2019 Gift Guide Part 2: Food And Entertainment
(If you’re looking for easier-to-wrap gifts, check out Part 1.) This is the experiential Melrose Arts District gift guide. If you have family and friends who like to get out and try something new, check out the places on Melrose that will surprise and delight them. 60OUT ESCAPE ROOMS For the folks on your list that can’t wait for the new escape room to open or are ripe for their first escape experience, a 60Out Gift Box is the way to go. Included in the cool box is a pass for 2-6 players, keychain, and pen for keeping notes for the win. 60OUT ESCAPE ROOMS 7270 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 310.478.4444 shop.60out.com/collections/gift-cards DOMAINE LA Hard to beat the perfection of wine paired with chocolate. Thank you, Domaine LA, for the kindness of putting these two mood-altering elixirs in one classy gift box, complete with a banded corkscrew. Who’s the lucky recipient? DOMAINE LA 6801 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90038 323.932.0280 domainela.com/shop/gifts/wine-chocolate-and-accessory-gift-package THE GROUNDLINGS + RONAN A Best of Melrose combo platter: The Groundlings and Ronan are offering two new dinner and a show packages. Food from one of Melrose’s hottest restaurants and laughs from the legendary comedy club make […]
18. Dec 2019
Community
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Melrose Action Neighborhood Watch
To sign up and become a member of Melrose Action and their Neighborhood Watch, click the link below. You’ll receive their weekly newsletter, notices and invitations to their neighbors only meetings and email alerts about serious crimes in the area. It’s free and supported by local residents and businesses.
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Fairfax to Ogden
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Alta Vista to Formosa
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Formosa to Detroit
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Detroit to La Brea
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La Brea to Sycamore
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Sycamore to Orange
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Orange to Mansfield
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Mansfield to Citrus
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Citrus to Highland
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Ogden to Genesee
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Gennesee to Spaulding
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Spaulding to Stanley
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Stanley to Curson
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Curson to Sierra Bonita
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Sierra Bonita to Gardner
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Gardner to Vista
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Vista to Martel
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Martel to Fuller
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Fuller to Pointsettia
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Pointsettia to Alta Vista
Melrose Downloadable Map
Melrose Avenue runs through the heart of West Hollywood and Hollywood. It is easily accessible by freeway (close to the 10 and the 101) and public transportation. Its sunny outdoor setting and colorful selection of shops and restaurants provides a unique, walkable experience unlike any in Los Angeles.
Best Of Melrose
The Ultimate Melrose Arts District 2019 Gift Guide Part 1: Art, Clothes, And Other Good Stuff
The shopping is always world-class in the Melrose Arts District. Indie craftspeople, artists, designers, and product curators offer things you can only find in L.A.’s most special district. So naturally, during the holidays, you’ll find dang near everything you can imagine for dang near everybody on your list. COSMO’S GLAMSQUAD Cosmo’s fashion is wearable statement art. This unisex “Assassin” hooded scarf will certainly attract attention. It will also keep your face parts nice and toasty through winter then turn into a high end accessory in warmer seasons. COSMO’S GLAMSQUAD 7367 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.951.1141 cosmosglamsquad.com GALLERY1988 Gallery1988 is one of the country’s premiere art galleries, known for curating shows and pieces that turn pop culture every which way. Original work and prints are available for sale, and there’s even some pieces perfect for kids. GALLERY1988 7308 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.937.7088 nineteeneightyeight.com GOLD TEETH LA Got a friend with bling-worthy teeth? Get them over to Gold Teeth LA for a perfectly-sized, perfectly-placed tooth gem. Options include stars, crosses, and even gems. Give ‘em something to really smile about. GOLD TEETH LA 7811 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 818.856.6986 goldteethla.shop JAPAN LA It’s hard to deal with this […]
10. Dec 2019
Making Thanksgiving Easy In The Melrose Arts District: Where To Get Food, Drinks, Host Gifts, And More For The Holiday
You might be making your plans for Thanksgiving, which is just a couple of weeks away. Are you having people over for dinner? Or maybe you’re a guest elsewhere? Or is it a pizza and Netflix night? All good. The Melrose Arts District has everything you need to make the entire day simpler, convenient, and tasty no matter what you’re doing. BLU JAM CAFÉ They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. At Blu Jam, it’s also the most delicious. If you need the energy for the full day of cooking ahead or want to prime your tummy for even more food, get your first meal on Melrose. BLU JAM CAFÉ 7371 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.951.9191 blujamcafe.com DOMAINE LA Orange wines are a fresh trend (they’re basically whites made the same way as reds). At Domaine LA, pick up the 2018 Jolie Laide Pinot Gris. It’s an organic California orange wine that will go perfectly with the flavors of Thanksgiving (or that pizza). DOMAINE LA 6801 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90038 323.932.0280 domainela.com M CAFÉ Don’t feel like cooking at all but want a healthy, organic, and massive meal without the hassle? Order meals for […]
18. Nov 2019
Best Of Halloween: Where To Go, What To Do And Things To Eat
Halloween is right around the corner, and of course, you can count on the Melrose Arts District to have all the things you need for a proper holiday celebration. From scary entertainment to themed attire, we’ve plenty of tricks and a ton of treats to make your Halloween spooktacular. 60OUT ESCAPE ROOMS Can you break the curse of the Ghost Ship and release the haunted crew (and your crew) from its spell? Round up some friends and take your best shot at this long-running fan fave escape room at 60Out. 60OUT ESCAPE ROOMS 7270 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 213.995.6890 60out.com/los-angeles/locations/melrose COLD ROLLED ICE CREAM Leave it to Cold Rolled Ice Cream to come up with a Halloween treat that looks as sweet as it tastes. The clever holiday combos are only around for a limited time, so get in line and grab the goodness. COLD ROLLED ICE CREAM 7266 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.452.0881 coldrolledicecream.com GOLDEN APPLE COMICS There are two big Halloween events at Golden Apple on Saturday, October 26: Halloween ComicFest starts at 11am, with free comics for all. FRIGHT: Indie Comic Fiesta – a Halloween-theme mini-con with free comic, creator meets, treats, music, and more […]
28. Oct 2019
Experience The Best Of Fall Flavors In The Melrose Arts District: The Drink Edition
As the temperatures start to drop, our bodies are like, “hey, either put on a sweater or get me a PSL, stat!” You can definitely get a sweater on Melrose. But why not amp up the seasonal beverage intake with something warm and rich, or icey and spicey? Here are some of the best beverages on Melrose Avenue to take advantage of fall flavors. AUBURN Auburn’s cocktail, Fig, beautifully enmeshes smoked fig, rhubarb, bonal, rye whiskey, fernet branca, lemon, and tonic with a garnish of fresh fig, honey drizzle, and black salt. AUBURN 6703 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90038 323.486.6703 auburnla.com/about BONTEA BonTea offers this delightfully accessorized cinnamon latte made from high quality, organic ingredients. Perfect for cozying up with a good book or your fave podcast. BONTEA 7275 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.207.8700 bonteacafe.com/menu DOMAINE LA Take your autumn-inspired wine home with you. This NV Vergano Moscato Chinato “Luli” at Domaine LA is infused with cinnamon, ginger, vanilla, and other aromatics. DOMAINE LA 6801 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90038 323.932.0280 domainela.com/about-us MELROSE UMBRELLA CO. Order up the Kiss Kiss Bang Bang at Melrose Umbrella Co. for a crisp fall treat: toki japanese whiskey, green apple and ginger sauvignon […]
14. Oct 2019
The Six Best Ice Cream Specials: It May Be Fall, But It’s Still Hot!
It may be fall, but the heat doesn’t look to be leaving any time soon. While we most definitely endorse ice cream any time of the year, there’s something about cooling down with a cold dessert that makes it feel like summertime all year round. We found six ice cream specials that are guaranteed to deliciously take the edge off even the hottest L.A. days. COLD ROLLED ICE CREAM The artisanal menu choices at Cold Rolled Ice Cream are not only IG-worthy, they are exceptionally delicious. In particular, White Chocolate Rose with its rose water base, white chocolate drizzle, and dried rose buds, is the most exquisite example of the create-your-combo Thai rolled ice cream system. COLD ROLLED ICE CREAM 7266 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 (323) 452-0881 coldrolledicecream.com LN2 It might be a challenge to save some room for dessert after seeing the pizza menu at LN2, but trust us: save some room for dessert. It’s a build your own sundae opportunity with nth level ingredients. If you are a strawberry fan, try the strawberry chamomile ice cream with whipped cream and a fresh berry. LN2 7212 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.917.5178 ln2restaurant.com MILK All hail Christina Tosi, […]
6. Oct 2019
After Hours Eats
Best known for its lively daytime crowds and sun-kissed shopping strolls, you may not think of the Melrose Arts District as a nighttime destination. Historically the neighborhood has closed its doors around 11pm, however, with a new generation of restaurants and bars, things have changed. If you are looking for late night eats, there are a myriad of options ranging from outstanding bar food to delicious Asian and Italian cuisine. Here’s the round-up. FRANKIE’S Sometimes you just need to have an old-school experience. I mean Rat Pack throwback, real Italian food with stiff cocktails, classic service, and good friends. The kind of meal where you eat till you fall out of your chair, then order some cannolis. Lucky for you, Frankie’s is open late (midnight) and is no doubt the right choice. Where else can you get Osso Bucco and cannolis good as Brooklyn? FRANKIE’S 7228 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles 90046 323.655.3331 frankiesonmelrose.com HOT WINGS CAFE ` Famous for their wings which come in over 5 styles, Hot Wings Cafe makes for a perfect late night pairing with sports and drinking. You can dine-in or make it to-go which seems to be popular for this establishment. They also serve beer […]
30. Sep 2019
Savings, Specials, And Secrets: The 12 Best Melrose Arts District Lists To Be On
There’s so much happening on Melrose every day – from pop ups and events to seasonal sales and daily specials – how the heck are you supposed to make sure you don’t miss out? Easy answer: get on the lists! Give these Melrose businesses your email and get the scoop on all your favorite places before anybody else. 2nd STREET With the amount of one-of-a-kind, high-end merch coming into 2nd Street on the reg, you really have to stay on it. New subscribers to the stores mailing list get 10% off as well. 2nd STREET 7560 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 424.433.5997 2ndstreetusa.com/find-a-store 60OUT ESCAPE ROOMS Learn about cool new 60Out experiences, get first word on promos, and keep the brain in action with puzzle challenges when you sign up. 60OUT ESCAPE ROOMS 7270 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 (213) 995-6890 60out.com/los-angeles/locations ALTIVO TIMEPIECES Altivo Timepieces makes you a VIP with exclusive updates, new arrivals 411, and insider-only discounts. ALTIVO TIMEPIECES 7221 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.933.1460 altivo.com BLU JAM CAFÉ Get all the good news from Blu Jam: events, specials, and more. Check out what coupons you can use while you’re waiting for your table. BLU JAM CAFÉ […]
24. Sep 2019
Five Melrose Avenue Restaurant Dishes That Celebrate Fall
Not matter what the temperature says, autumn has officially arrived. While it may not feel like it, it can certainly taste like it. Melrose Avenue restaurants are the place to go if you’re into seasonal ingredients, clever flavor combos, and a total sense of satisfaction after a meal. Check out these offerings that celebrate the flavors of the season. AUBURN Eggplant is a ridiculously flexible fruit (yes, fruit) with a distinct flavor and texture that is exploited to its rustic fullest in this dish at Auburn. The eggplant is charred in the hearth and served with puffed grains, black garlic, almonds, and onion essence. AUBURN 6703 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90038 323.486.6703 auburnla.com/menu COLD ROLLED ICE CREAM No way we’re skipping dessert. If you like your fall flavors frozen, take a look at Cold Rolled’s monument to cool fall nights. S’more Tonight has a s’more base, chocolate drizzle, crushed graham cracker, and a for-real toasted marshmallow. COLD ROLLED ICE CREAM 7266 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.452.0881 coldrolledicecream.com LA CHOUQUETTE This is most definitely apple season. A simple, elegant, and dizzingly delicious way to enjoy the fall fruit is at La Chouquette. This tarte aux pommes has a perfectly crisp, […]
20. Sep 2019
Melrose Spotlite
Back To the Future of Melrose
Great Scott! It’s Back To The Future Day on October 21, and where we’re going, we don’t need roads…well only one—Melrose Avenue. We’re going down the history of what’s now known as the Melrose Arts District. What used to be the punk rock epicenter of the 80’s has morphed into a millennial shopping hub. Through it all Melrose has always been a road you walk, in a city full of driving. As we stroll down memory lane you’ll notice that although Melrose has been through changes, it’s maintained its charm and heart and if you look closely, you’ll recognize some famous spots from its illustrious past. Then: Aardvarks Now: American Vintage What used to be the hotspot for edgy vintage is now a hotspot for, well, edgy vintage, only with a different company. This can be seen in the pictures above with the storefront art remaining virtually the same. Aardvarks specialized in Levis and leather, organizing racks by decades, though it was clear they were focused on the 60s and 70s. It has since closed and moved to Redondo Beach. American Vintage has taken its place and it doesn’t disappoint. On their website, they describe themselves as “a boutique selling […]
22. Oct 2019
Pretty, Funny Women on Melrose
On Melrose, there’s no shortage of restaurants, shops and nail salons, but sometimes, particularly these days, you just a need a laugh. With the exception of The Groundlings and Sal’s Comedy Hole, there haven’t been many places to see and perform comedy on our stretch of Melrose— until now. Lisa Sundstedt, a comedian, actress and renowned “Madam of Comedy” is changing all that with her new Pretty, Funny Women studio at 7456 Melrose Ave. Pretty, Funny Women Studio opened in the former Zephyr Theatre lobby at the end of May and is the new hot spot for all things comedy. The studio provides classes, specialty workshops, shows, space rental, and open mic opportunities. Pretty, Funny Women began as an industry showcase of the same name in 1995 that ran at the Hollywood Improv for more than ten years. In 2005, Lisa started teaching stand up, and was able to mentor thousands of women through her classes—even helping to manage some of their careers. Opening a brick and mortar studio was the natural next step. According to Lisa, the name Pretty, Funny Women came from an incredibly unhelpful man telling her that, “pretty women can’t be funny.” She says many people, […]
7. Jun 2019
Debut of SUCKER PUNCH at Tiger Boxing Gym, Where The Gentleman’s Sport Meets The Arts
On Tuesday, June 4th, Coeurage Theatre Company will debut SUCKER PUNCH by Roy Williams at Tiger Boxing Gym (708 N Gardner St, 90046). The play, which is set in a boxing gym, focuses on such powerful issues as class, race and identity. Tiger Boxing Gym provides the perfect, intimate setting (27 seats), bringing the audience into the action. Tiger Boxing Gym is owned by Charles Nwokolo, known as “Young Dick Tiger,” a fierce young fighter who won 84 of 91 amateur fights, and represented his country in the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. His wife, Elizabeth Wilson, is a classical violinist. When she was approached by Coeurage with the idea of staging a live theatre production in the gym, she jumped at the opportunity. “I love the idea of the unexpected co-mingling and collaborative efforts between our gym and the Arts,” said Wilson. “Last spring we held a chamber music concert inside the boxing ring and it was wonderful! My husband and his son are training the actors and helping to choreograph the fights. It’s shaping up to be a very exciting and super intimate production.” About Sucker Punch In the red corner: Leon Davidson – Black British champ […]
4. Jun 2019
Spartina LA: So, You’re Addicted to Pasta
So, you’re addicted to pasta– it’s ok. The first step is admitting you have a problem. The good news is, there’s help. I have personally struggled with a pasta addiction all my life. I remember a time when my father found me freebasing cold, sauce-less penne into my mouth out of a strainer in the kitchen (I was seven, and they were dark times). I’ve grown a lot since then, and I’m here to impart that wisdom upon you. The best pasta on Melrose is served at chef and culinary wizard Stephen Kalt’s Spartina. The original Spartina opened in New York and was named top 5 on Food & Wines neighborhood restaurants. They mix rustic decor and place settings with fine dining cuisine. The pasta is made in-house, so it has the consistency of an angel’s wing, and the menu is ever changing to support the use of local in-season ingredients. I suggest going on Mondays as they have happy hour all night with pasta at $15 dollars and wines for $8. Because pasta is meant to be eaten with wine, or beer, or soda—or maybe it’s just meant to be eaten, period. The short rib tortelloni with brown butter […]
26. Feb 2019
Martin Diller Brings The Best Music In L.A. To Melrose Trading Post
The Melrose Trading Post has become one of the greatest success stories of the LA Unified School District raising over $7 million for Fairfax High organizations since 1997, growing to attract 5-8K thousand visitors every Sunday. Even if you are unfamiliar with the Melrose area, you have probably witnessed the bustling bazaar it all its glory while driving past the iconic Fairfax High on any given Sunday. What you probably haven’t heard about is the Trading Post’s concert series. It is easy to miss the live music stage among the vast selection of vendors and top-notch people watching complete with star-studded appearances by celebrities like Taylor Swift, Kendall Jenner, Lana Del Rey, Matt Bellamy of Muse, band members from the Chainsmokers, Tyler the Creator, Willow & Jaden Smith and Kehlani. Upon entering the food court, you will be greeted by the Greenway Arts Main Stage resting underneath a shady tree, inviting those with tired legs and a plate of food to chill and check out the local talent. FYI, the food court is filled with intoxicating fragrances from delicious foods like crepes, tacos, acai bowls, infused teas or just about anything you would want. In most situations, local talent refers […]
19. Feb 2019
Severance: A Fondue And Fine Wine Hot Spot On Melrose
Just three and a half months new, Severance is a welcome new food and wine hot spot on Melrose Ave. According to owner Evan Charest, “We’re a wine bar with extensive food, and we focus on cheese fondues, dessert fondues, and flat breads.” Charest says the flat breads use dough made in house and are cooked on their wood-fired grill. “And when it comes to beverages, we offer a wide variety of wines, as well as large format punch drinks made from sherry and champagne,” he adds. Charest’s background includes running the beverage program for Patina on the west coast. Severance is his first solo project. Why focus on the absolutely delicious creamy fondue in his menu? “I have a huge passionate love for fondue. It is easy to make and hard to master,” he laughs. “We have done a lot of R & D on it, and created something wonderful.” Additionally, he adds “It has that great après-ski vibe, and of course the whole communal food aspect. Food to share and fun drinks, those are the things we wanted here. We wanted shareable.” Charest describes his most popular item as his Emmentaler & Gruyere cheese fondue, made with carmelized […]
19. Dec 2018
