Farmers’ Market, Third Street Promenade and Santa Monica Place

Saturday was one of those toasty days in Los Angeles -- in the triple digits -- the kind that brings everyone to the coast. To avoid traffic jam we woke up early and drove to Santa Monica.  We headed to The Refinery first, then leisurely strolled at the Farmers’ Market, Third Street Promenade and Santa Monica Place.

Loteria Grill!

Loteria Grill is a modern Mexican restaurant chain that started at The Original Farmers’ Market on Third and Fairfax.

On the table...

A Cup of Cappuccino

Over the past few years my relationship with coffee has evolved into a whole new level. While growing up coffee was prohibited in our family because of its health effects, but things have changed. New studies revealed the benefits of coffee -- so coffee and I became friends :-)  I used to drink Starbucks Frap occasionally, then husband and I started brewing coffee daily at home.  More recently, we are into artisan coffee.  And, we have a plan to explore artisan coffee shops in Los Angeles.  Our first stop… The Refinery.

Don’t you love it when your coffee is adorned with art? I surely do :-)

Sun, Sand & Seagulls

 Summer has officially arrived... it's time to hit the beach!

Back Bay Bistro in Newport Beach

Saturday afternoon we met-up with Auntie Tita at Back Bay Bistro in Newport Beach.

On the table...

Seafood Pasta  for Auntie Tita
Fish and Chips for Mom
Diver Scallops with Mushroom Risotto for Hubby
Seafood Chowder and Ahi Martini for me

Ramen by Omae

Apparently, our favorite ramen shop in the Valley, Koraku, has closed its doors and was replaced by RAMEN by Omae.  

Oh my, the ramen at this new spot is perfection!!!  And that is no surprise — after all, Chef Takeshi Omae's culinary credentials are impeccable.  He is a Michellin-starred chef in Tokyo, was trained at Le Cordon Bleu and former Executive Chef of Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto.

Friday Dinner at Mastro's Steakhouse in Beverly Hills

A place that needs no introduction, Mastro’s Steakhouse is one of the best steakhouses in Los Angeles. 

On the table...

- A Seafood Tower

- Lobster Mashed Potatoes

- Steamed Asparagus
- Creamed Corn
- Creamed Spinach
- 22-oz Bone-in Ribeye for me
- Crème Brulee (shared with hubby)

Lunch Date With Hubby

Little Bundle of Joy and I drove to Westfield Topanga Mall to meet-up with hubby for lunch at La Vaca Brazilian Grill located in the dining terrace.

Here are some snapshots...