Neighborhood: Hollywood

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.

When you step from Hillhurst Avenue up the garden path to the Alcove, you are entering a small Los Angeles dining adventure. But don't worry - it's a good one. Located in the colorful respite of Los Feliz in an old brick bungalow, the Alcove is true to its name, but with L.A.'s youthful energy, too.

First you walk through a well-seated grassy courtyard filled with shady umbrellas, café tables and chairs. Then, get in line, because this place is popular, and often packed. However the wait doesn't feel long, for you're too busy perusing the extensive menu of gourmet egg dishes (from the old-fashioned country breakfast to the shrimp and lobster omelette), monster salads (such as classic Cobb, Asian, or grilled vegetable), and a variety of panini sandwiches, burgers and wraps. From the colorfully illustrated giant chalkboard you pick your potion - whether it be an exotic hot coffee, ice blended, or stronger libation. As you bump along the curve of the counter towards the congested ordering area, glass windows display tantalizing tarts and pastries, fluffy iced cupcakes with sprinkles, and enormous marshmallow treats. While the Alcove prices are a bit higher than average, you'll find generous portions here.

Ah, you've made it to the front of the line. You order, you pay, you get your drink, and a number to put on your table. Now to find a place to sit: a few tables can be found inside, oddly surrounded by strange religious wall murals, artifacts, and antique photos (you get the vague feeling this was once the site of turn-of-the-century religious cult) - which might explain why the most popular seating is outside. I tend to go for more privacy, settling in the quaint side patio with its creative, antique lawn furniture (a chair made from a country door is one of my favorites). Greek statues surrounded by trees invite small birds to join you, and add to the overall calming effect in this section. But the busy front courtyard has much to offer as well. My friend and I once became so thoroughly engrossed in the Hollywood dating dramas of two women talking at the courtyard table beside us, we barely said a word to each other the entire meal. When we left, we shared commentary as though we had just been to a movie!

Once you sit, you can sip your drink, chat, and relax. You feel a little like a frat initiate who just made it through the Haze (okay, that's an exaggeration - maybe that's just the lingering cult vibe from inside); actually it's more like coming home after a hectic drive in traffic. Whatever. When the food arrives the "traffic" is quickly forgotten. You find the offerings deserving of inclusion in the local mag "best ofs," such as Angeleno's "Hot List," or Sunset's "Best Coffeehouses in LA." You eat, and you feel good that you have discovered this crazy little retreat – more accurately, that you survived a little "crazy" to get to the "retreat."

In LA I think we enjoy going through a little drama to get to something good. The Alcove dining experience is no different, for not only do you get a good meal, but a sense of accomplishment, too. Which I suppose is why, despite my complaints about the crowds, I keep going back.

Raffallo's Pizza is by far the best I've tasted on the West Coast. Philadelphia's pizza beats them all but this ain't Philly baby.

Raffallo's has amazing sandwiches too. To be completely honest, I never went there for the food. I mean don't get me wrong, the food rocks. There is this waitress who works there that I had a HUGE crush on. She had beautiful long brown hair, nice tan skin and I was taller then her. This is very important because I'm only 5'9. Can you see a trend here? Hey, I'm in my late 20's, what else am I going to think about?

I went to Raffallo's with my 2-year old niece. She's a cutie. Yes, I'm one of those guys who will use my brother's kid to pick up women. Whatever works right? Anyway, I went back, asked her out and she said "No". It's a little depressing but I ordered a large pie that lifted my spirits. After that day I was too embarrassed to go back. I only order delivery now. Speaking of which, their delivery service is top notch and VERY quick, usually under a half an hour.

I actually sent her a card. YES! I'm a huge geek. Maybe she'll read this, call the site and ask for my phone number? Probably not...but it sure won't keep me from ordering that fantastic pizza.

If you go, I recommend getting the Raffallo's Super Sub. It's awesome and very filling. I can't even finish the Super Sub myself and I eat like a horse. Raffallo's is also a great for Football Sunday. GO EAGLES!

The parking situation can be a little tough. There are only about 5 total spots so delivery is the way to go.

Located at the foot of the Hollywood Hills on Franklin Avenue, Birds is perched in the middle of a unique block between Tamarind and Bronson Streets, where Hollywood wannabes and stars alike flock to the sunny sidewalk cafes to hang out, talk industry, and see-or-be seen.

Bird's diverse and delicious menu is a one of the draws that keeps the locals landing. The featured entrée is rotisserie chicken, glazed in an original marinade and served with your choice of sides (steamed veggies, BBQ beans, roasted potatoes, cole slaw, Spanish rice, etc.). But if you're not a big eater, they also have lighter fare in the form of California fusion "roll-up" sandwiches, chicken tacos, and their famous curly Q fries. Beef lovers will enjoy the old-fashioned burgers and sloppy joes. For even lighter eaters, salads come in half order sizes, (Caesar, Chinese Chicken, Mediterranean, etc.) and even these are meal-size portions.

While the other restaurants and shops on this block exude a young Hollywood vibe, Birds is hip retro: it's name an homage to Alfred Hitchcock's famous horror film "The Birds," with decor that features giant photos and posters of the suspense master showing off his whimsical reserve and portly charm. Like the cinematic world of Hitchcock, the atmosphere inside Birds is dark, but only in terms of the lighting. The music is upbeat and the friendly wait staff provides excellent service.

After dining at Birds, there is plenty to see or do in just one short block. The Daily Planet newsstand and novelty shop, the Bourgeois Pig Café, the Tamarind Theatre (featuring the Upright Citizens Brigade), Harmony Gallery, and Counterpoint Records and Books are among the cool places here to check out.

Whether you want the "comfort food" of a full on BBQ chicken meal, or fresh lavash "roll-up" sandwiches with a California spin, Birds of Hollywood offers an affordable selection for a variety of tastes, in a breezy, off-the-beaten path locale.

Spanning across 4,107 acres, Griffith Park is the largest city park in the United States. In fact, the infamous Hollywood sign is actually located within the perimeters of Griffith Park.

There are numerous activities to engage in while visiting Griffith Park. The park is not only home to the Hollywood sign, but also houses the Gene Autry Museum of Western Heritage, Greek Theater, the Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles Zoo, the Travel Town Museum, the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round, the Griffith Park Southern Railroad, and Pony Rides. Additionally, Griffith Park also features plentiful horseback riding, hiking trails, and bicycle rentals to enjoy the beautiful scenery first hand.

California’s rugged landscaping provides for a fantastic hiking experience. As you traverse through Griffith Park, you'll encounter many of the native California animals, such as quail, deer, and coyotes. Caution is advised however, since you may also cross paths with some rattlesnakes. In total, there are over 53 miles of trails and paths that are perfect for enjoying a short brisk walk, or a more strenuous hike. The trails are open from dawn until dusk and you can pick up trail maps at the Ranger Station.

In addition to hiking, many people enjoy horseback riding at Griffith Park. There are also pony rides available so families of all ages may enjoy the fun. There are specially designated trails for the riders, however, if riders choose to dismount, they must stay on the designated trails. Pony rides are available from Tuesday until Sunday between the hours of 10:00 A.M. until 4:00 P.M. There are also covered wagon rides that provide wonderful entertainment for young children. Whether you are on a date or enjoying the park with your family, you'll find plenty of activities to choose from while visiting Griffith Park.

Located in the heart of Los Angeles is a wonderful resource that helps foster an appreciation and deeper understanding of art, Barnsdall Art Park. The Barnsdall Art Park features international art displays and exhibits, as well as resources to strengthen the community's knowledge of art, and also houses the famous Hollyhock House, which was designed for Aline Barnsdall by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Things To See

When visiting Barnsdall Art Park there are four major features that you will want to enjoy. First, is the unique view of Hollywood, including a fantastic view of the landmark Hollywood sign. The Park is located on Olive Hill and is situated at the intersection of Hollywood and Vermont.

The second site is the Hollyhock House that was built between 1919 and 1923 by Frank Lloyd Wright for Aline Barnsdall. There are scheduled times that you may take guided tours of the home. For parties larger than ten people, reservations are recommended. Tours are available from Wednesday through Sunday at 12:30, 1:30, and 3:30 Pacific Times. Tickets for students and seniors cost $3.00 and adults cost $7.00. Children twelve years and under are free. It should also be mentioned that there is no photography allowed throughout the tours.

During your visit, you'll also want to see the Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery and the Barnsdall Gallery Theater. The Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery features many works of art by both local and international artists. The Barnsdall Gallery Theater features a number of theater groups and showcases live performances.

Classes & Art Workshops

The Barnsdall Art Pak is operated by the Community Arts Division of the Cultural Affairs Department. They also offer many art programs as well as workshops. In addition to these regular classes, the Junior Arts Center provides community art resources for children and youth. For more information or to find out the current list of workshops, visit: http://www.barnsdallart.com