Zankou Chicken: Yet another reason to move to L.A.

I posted two short sentences on Twitter the other day, and got the following responses: “You suck.” “I hate you.” “JUST STOP IT.”

What could I have tweeted that would elicit such vitriol? Here’s what I said:

“Zankou Chicken, extra garlic sauce, pickled turnips. Don’t be jealous.”

Because if you are a Zankou Chicken lover, you know this: One of the most painful things to hear is that someone else is sinking their teeth into that crispy chicken slathered in garlic sauce, and you’re not. Read More »

FREE pancakes, for a good cause.

In case you’re looking for another holiday to celebrate, Tuesday, February 28th is National Pancake Day at IHOP. The best thing about this holiday is that it requires no gifts, cards or expensive bouquets of flowers. All it requires is an appetite for pancakes. FREE pancakes. And the icing on the (pan)cake – it’s all for charity. What’s not to like? Here’s how it works: On February 28, 2012, guests from around the country are invited to enjoy a free short stack of Buttermilk pancakes at participating IHOP restaurants. In return, pancake lovers are asked to consider leaving a donation for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and other designated local charities. Did I mention FREE PANCAKES? Read More »

Komida - Best Performance By A Taco

In a few days Hollywood royalty will descend upon the Kodak Theatre* for the 84th Annual Academy Awards. They’ll arrive in their limos, hit the red carpet for a few interviews and some chatter about what they’re wearing, and then get whisked up the grand staircase of the Hollywood & Highland complex for their entrance into the theater.

But here’s what I think should happen: Right before they head through those double doors, I’m hoping they’ll veer to the left, and take a few minutes to wander down the seemingly-deserted walkway in their impossibly high heels. Because at the end of that path they’ll find Komida, and some of the best tacos they’ve ever eaten. And they’ll be glad they did, since it’ll be hours before they’ll be able to stuff their faces on hors d’oeuvres at the Governor’s Ball.

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Museum food? Getty in mah belly!

What comes to mind when you think of the Getty? For me, it’s not just about the 18th century rococo tapestries or the anatomically correct bronze sculptures. I love the Getty because of the food. And I’m not talking about a Fabergé egg.

Both the Getty Center and the Getty Villa are great places to go to satisfy your artistic soul as well as your belly. Along with spectacular views and beautiful grounds (perfect for a post-meal walk) both locations offer first-rate dining that you might not expect to find at a museum.

I love the Cafe at the Getty Center and their daily changing selections. I’ve had excellent udon from their Global Dish menu as well as a great turkey burger with homemade balsamic aioli, and their cafeteria-style setup means you can wander the different food stations and check out what’s on the menu before you decide. And of course you can’t beat their cavernous, airy dining room for a gorgeous view of the surrounding hills. I also love to end my meal with a cappuccino from the outdoor coffee cart, that I take with me while I wander the famous Central Garden.

The Getty Villa has something even more unique – Tea By The Sea, an authentic Mediterranean tea that’s inspired by the herbs, vegetables, and fruits that are grown in the Getty Villa’s own gardens. Along with a variety of teas, a nice selection of sandwiches is served (my favorite was the prosciutto and brie with fig jam) and a variety of delicious scones and breads. It’s the perfect ending to a leisurely day spent wandering the gorgeous grounds and watching the sun set over Malibu.

Getty Center
1200 Getty Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90049
(310) 440-7300

Getty Villa
17985 Pacific Coast Highway
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
(310) 440-7300

When she’s not eating a sandwich in the sculpture garden, Marsha can be found at Sweatpantsmom.com

Photo: Marsha Takeda-Morrison