Menotti’s

Hands down my favorite artisan coffee shop in Los Angeles. The owner and head barista, who goes by Nicely, is the 2010, 2011, & 2012 Coffee Fest World Latte Art Champion.  Located steps from Venice Beach, Menotti’s serves Four Barrel Coffee and spins vinyl, which makes it the perfect respite from the tacky tourist traps nearby. You might get lucky and have Derek make your coffee when he’s not on tour as Bank’s drummer.

56 Windward Ave in Venice Beach, CA

Wolvesmouth Dinner @ The Wolvesden












Last night I dined with the wolves. Twenty people, an NBA player included, were picked at random to experience Chef Craig Thorton’s invitation only dinner party, Wolvesmouth. Apparently it’s rare to receive an invitation through the emailing list on the first try, but it is possible. The 9 course meal is prepped and served in Thorton’s personal loft that is filled with numerous taxidermy and a small, living dog. Food was exceptional tasting and visually stunning, service prompt and impeccable. At the end of the meal, small red Chinese envelopes were given to each guest and you pay what the meal is worth to you.

It was a great experience and I highly recommend trying to get on the list. The dishes change seasonally based on local produce and continue to evolve over time so it is possible to go another time and have a totally different experience than the first.