The Knitting Factory is many things. On one hand it is a first rate concert facility stocked with three stages (all of which have their own sound and bars). On the other, it is a little small and barely manages to hold all of its occupants. Yet overall, the Knitting Factory is a fine place to spend an evening with friends and catch Hollywood’s finest local talent.
Being a musician myself, I’d like to begin by saying that playing the Knitting Factory has always been a pleasant and enjoyable experience. That being said, the quality of the music that graces the stages is usually as good as it gets. Because of the Knitting Factory’s relatively small size, most people get full view of everything that’s happening on stage. This intimate atmosphere adds major points to the appeal of the Knitting Factory.
Once you enter through the front door your eyes will be greeted by some very comfortable plush couches, and the first of three bars. Treat yourself first to one of many over priced drinks, that is if you can squeeze your way through the mob of people. If you make a right you’ll see the second stage. This is where the lesser bands, and touring indie bands play. This stage is nice, but there is not a lot of room to stand and it can get annoying if you find yourself in the path of traffic from the other rooms to the bars.
Next I would recommend making a quick stop by the Alterknit Lounge. This small little room is a haven for local singer songwriters looking to get their talent out there. If you need to, you can make your way to the second bar in the back of this room. Though it’s not as stocked as the one up front, you can still get an overpriced beer or two. This room doesn’t usually have as many people in it and is a nice place to get away and still enjoy the music.
If you leave this room, the only other place to go is the main stage. This is obviously where the larger bands come to play. The room is smaller than the House of Blues, but holds the same atmosphere. The visibility is pretty clear from all angles, and offers the same intimate feeling that the rest of the club has. Also, as with all the other rooms, the main stage room has a fully stocked bar. I would not recommend going to this bar due to the loud noise from the stage. It’s a lot easier to get what you want from the front room.
The Knitting Factory is even smoker friendly with the convenient exits in back of the room. Overall, I would say that the Knitting factory offers a good concert going experience, as well as just an old fashioned good time for everybody.
Located along 4th Street in Santa Monica (next door to Benihana), Border Grill is an upbeat and trendy Mexican restaurant with a fantastic vibe. Originally a taco stand along Melrose Ave, Border Grill was relocated to its Santa Monica location in 1990 by owners/chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken. For those of you who used to watch the Food Network in the mid to late 90’s, you may remember them from their show, “Cooking With Too Hot Tamales”. Ok, maybe I was the only one who watched that show; anyhow, let’s start with the ambiance.
The Ambiance
One of the first things you’ll notice as you step inside Border Grill is the vibrant colors; there is definitely no shortage of red, blue, and yellow. A little too bold for some, I think it transitions perfectly into the second thing you’ll notice – the noise. Although it’s bearable, I would suggest going elsewhere if you’re looking for something romantic. But when you combine the vibrant colors and acoustics, what you get is a setting that perfectly complements the food you’re about to enjoy.
The Food
I have frequented Border Grill on quite a few occasions and have always found the food to be full of flavor and consistently good. The cuisine is Contemporary Mexican, which in my interpretation and understanding, is a twist on traditional Mexican fare.
For your appetizer, I would recommend the Green Corn Tamales...they are always flavorful and come out just right. The Tortilla Soup is usually pretty good, but it was a little too salty the last time I had it. For your entrée, the Grilled Skirt Steak is a favorite; it’s infused with garlic, cilantro, and lime and served with a handmade flour tortilla (I’m actually getting a little hungry while writing this).
If you still have room left for desert, go for the Tres Leches cake; it’s served with passion fruit and topped with a sweet pear sauce. The Pastel Ruffians is also a great choice. It’s a fluffy layered pastry with cream cheese and fresh berries.
If you happen to be at Border Grill during Happy Hour, make sure to try the Margaritas or the Sangrias…they’re not always the strongest, but good nonetheless. Happy Hour is from 4pm to 7pm on the weekdays and most drinks can be had for about $3.
Cost & Reservations
Expect to spend about $5-$10 on appetizers and anywhere from $15 to $30 for the main course. It does get busy in the evenings, especially on the weekends, so I suggest that you call ahead to make reservations.
The Knitting Factory is many things. On one hand it is a first rate concert facility stocked with three stages (all of which have their own sound and bars). On the other, it is a little small and barely manages to hold all of its occupants. Yet overall, the Knitting Factory is a fine place to spend an evening with friends and catch Hollywood’s finest local talent.