Archive for October 2007

I love Los Angeles and one of the main reasons is because it never stops recreating itself. A city known for its shock value, it's distinctive when it comes to numerous choices of dating places. With that said, I hate the idea of a traditional "romantic date." You know the ones I mean; the soft lights, candles on the table, easy listening emanates from the restaurant's walls while the waiter shoves the menu at you which of course list the customary "lobster" as their main course.

Los Angeles is the place to shake it up when it comes to romantic dating. From the Bungalow Club complete with individual bungalows, to the very intimate Nirvana on Wilshire artfully decorated with fireplaces and canopy beds throughout.

But who says romance has to be all candles and dark lighting. I personally like the fun dates that include things like pool at places like Break Shot Billiards, (nothing like someone trying to show you how to hold a cue) miniature golf or moonlight bowling. (same principals can apply)

If you've checked out everything you can in Los Angeles, but don't want to travel far, then Long Beach is the place to be. The Pike by my opinion is still one of the best kept secrets in Southern California. Forget about the restaurants although there are a number of them to choose from, but there is also Gameworks if you're into playing things like pinball, etc., or grab a blanket and find a spot right near the historic Long Beach Light House. Plus, the city has several choices of either day or night time cruises. But what if you're on a first date and getting comfy-cozy might not be the smart thing to do, then rent some bikes and take a ride on the beach, or to really make it unique, then check out renting a couple of Segways.

So if you are having a problem finding places for a romantic date, then the problem might not be the city, the problem might just be you.

I've lived in New York most of my adult life and never even gave California a thought except when my mother spoke about her trips to San Francisco; and even then she only spoke about Fisherman's Wharf. Any thoughts or comments I had on California were based on what I saw on television, in the movies or what my musician friends would tell me when they had returned from their trips to Los Angeles. I knew that there was always some competition between NY and Cali. After all, both coasts talk big when it comes to being in the forefront of fashion, music and entertainment.

When I started giving thoughts to moving out of New York, I wanted to move to a place that was similar. After not too much consideration, I chose California. New York had been good to me and I loved the liveliness and excitement of it, but I couldn't take the weather anymore, so I decided to give California a chance.

However, there was one thing I wasn't expecting. How challenging it would be to find out where all the eligible men hung out in Los Angeles. After all, in New York City, it was easy to meet men. I was never without a date, unless I chose to be.

What made it so easy was simple. Very few people drove in the city and because of the accessible transportation (subways, metro lines and buses) you were constantly forced into social situations and because New York City is such a great place to stroll on the weekends, you'd have to be virtually invincible not to get at least one verbal greeting whether you wanted it or not. Add to the constant nightlife--how could you not meet someone?

So if I had to chose which coast is easier when it comes to meeting men, I'd have to say hands down New York. But does that mean single women should move in herds to New York to get a date—no. Yes, it is a challenge to meet men in Southern California, but is it impossible…absolutely not.

If you are new to Los Angeles, here are few places I'd suggest. First, you have to start thinking like a Californian. What are they known for? I can think of three easy answers; healthy eating, exercising and beaches. Right there you have three different destinations to meet single people; health food stores, gyms and the many, many beaches.

California is also known for its many outdoor club activities. There's bike, hiking and back packing clubs. But what if you're not into the exercise or outdoor scene? Then check out your local church and other weekend events. In other words, if you're new to Southern Cali, and if you want to have a dating life, you might just have to think outside the 'dating' box.

Hidden behind a simple black painted building is perhaps the Valley's best bar. This dimly lit lounge is the place to be if you are feeling in the mood for a Hollywood bar, but don't feel like making the trek over the hill. The decor is what you would expect to find in Hollywood. The bar is decked out with stained glass and an eclectic collection of drinks. Everything from well aged scotch to flavored vodkas lies in wait for spirit thirsty patrons.

Venture towards the back of the bar and you will find a comfortable lounge with felt-lined walls. The brown, gold and red walls have a throwback feel. It's like a dance back through time to some hip bar of the 60s. With comfortable couches, it's a perfect spot to relax with friends. If pool is your thing, an adjacent room contains a pool table. But expect to wait awhile if you want to play.

The drinks are pricier then other valley bars, but not by much. And the quality and strength of the pour more then makes up for the cost. The bartenders are attractive and good at their jobs. I have never had to wait more then a couple of minutes for a drink, even on weekends.

This bar has become a favorite of those looking to mix and mingle. The crowd here is matched by any you will find in Hollywood, with a wide range of styles and tastes. The atmosphere is friendly and lively. There is a palpable energy that fills the place, but never seems to overwhelm it.

Be warned, No Bar is considered the place to be on weekends by both locals and visitors. They get pretty crowded after ten. Groups of friends and co-workers seem drawn to the place. Make sure you get there early enough and you will be more then accommodated.

Like most bars, No Bar seems to rely heavily on street parking for its patrons. This is no problem, however as there is plenty of it.

Located in the fashionable part of the valley, Mexacali Cocina Cantina has a reputation for being a trendy spot to have lunch or diner. With that reputation comes both the good and the bad. Dark wood tables, soft lighting and tightly packed tables gives Mexacali a very comfortable feeling. Perhaps known for their very attractive waiter staff, almost all of whom are aspiring actors, and the celebrities that frequent the restaurant (Jessica Simpson most notable) as much as for there food, Mexacali continues to be a chic spot for those looking to see and be seen.

The Food

Don't come here expecting to get authentic Mexican food. The name says it all. The food is a standard mixture of everything you would find in a traditional Mexican restaurant, but done with a California sensibility. Flour over corn tortillas and esoteric spices such as saffron and cilantro are just a few of the differences. Some of the more popular dishes are the Tortilla soup, the shrimp fajitas and the Shrimp and Crab burritos. If you are looking for some drinks with your meal try their signature drink, the Margatini. It's as potent as it is tasty, packing enough licker to get most people buzzed with the first glass.

The Service

The service here is what you would expect from a trendy restaurant with an actor heavy staff. You get pleasant chit chat, your meal and a couple of refills on chips and drinks. If you come for diner expect a long wait. On some nights the wait can reach forty-five minutes as the place gets packed. Lunch is usually easier to get in without a wait or reservation.

Parking

Parking is perhaps the best I have seen at any restaurant. They share an adjacent lot with the surrounding business so there is plenty of it.