Doggy Style

The good old Valley heat has officially arrived, so I've decided to dedicate this post to our friends in permanent fur coats.

I don't know about your dog, but my dog does not enjoy the bathing process one bit so taking her to a grooming facility is not an option for us. (She may or may not have pooped in my car more than once on her way there.)

A few years ago, I met a woman who changed our lives. Belinda the Grooming Goddess (my cheesy title- not hers) and owner of Sophistidog Grooming is my best friend's best friend.

Using eco friendly grooming products, Belinda rolls up to your home or office in a hybrid grooming van ready to make over your pooch. You choose the Silver, Gold or Platinum package and then sit back and wait for your dog to return to you smelling like heaven and sporting a super chic coif complete with a bandana or bow. Belinda even leaves your mutt with treats and an adorable report card! (She always give my dog an A when I know she really deserves and F-.)

Belinda's kind demeanor can calm even the nuttiest of dogs and she even gives discounts to rescue groups and non-profit pet organizations. My very favorite thing about her....a portion of all sales benefits homeless dogs! LOVE THAT!!!

Sophistidog Grooming
(626) 485-1589
sophistidog.com
*Serving parts of Los Angeles, Orange & San Bernardino Counties*

Texas Hold Em

Spring has officially sprung and Summer BBQ's are just around the corner. Sure you can sweat it out over your own backyard grill - but I have discovered a place so yummy that you may think twice the next time you are craving a little smokey meat.
(Gross guys... I'm talking about RIBS.)

Hidden between the car dealerships on Van Nuys Boulevard, Smoke City Market is real deal authentic Texas barbeque. So authentic, they don't even put sauce on their eats- they offer it but want you to take in the natural smokiness flavor before saucing it up.
They smoke their meats over natural oak, without the use of gas or propane to start or maintain the fires. All sides and sauces are made from scratch, using only natural (organic when possible) ingredients.

There is nothing fancy pants about this joint- you order at the counter, sit at panic tables and eat your food with your hands on butcher paper. Utensils are available for the faint of heart. (Ummm....me.)

Smoke City Market has all of your favorites: Ribs (beef & pork), Chicken, Brisket, Sausage, Chopped Beef, and Pastrami. The shining star for me was the brisket. Being a recently converted vegetarian, I'm not a giant brisket person- but this stuff was too delicious to pass up! Lean yet flavorful and full of smokey bite.

Now for the sides: Mac N Cheese, Pit Beans, Cabbage & Apple Slaw, Potato Salad (German & Creamy), Red Chili, Tomato & Cucumber Salad, etc. All fantastic and paired perfectly with the brisket that I ate solely for this damn blog.

Just a heads up: When they run out of meat, they close their doors. So if you are having a party or event, call ahead to place your order.

Smoke City Market
5242 Van Nuys Boulevard
Sherman Oaks, 91401
(818) 855-1280
www.smokecitymarket.com

The Raw Deal

I'm not gonna lie, but the first time I heard about SunPower Natural Cafe I completely wrote it off. I'm all for eating healthy, but the raw/vegan combo of this joint made me a little nervous.
But as your unofficial Valley Girl Representative, I decided I needed to check it out. (Plus, it's the new year and lord knows my badunkadunk could use a kale salad.)

I swear on the EIGHT ONE EIGHT this place is amazing!!! Truly! I stand corrected Raw/Vegan-ites: your food is fab.

My meal started out with the Sweet Kale Shake (before you gag, keep reading!) This yummy treat is packed full of vitamins and minerals (Beta Carotene, Vitamin K, Vitamin C & Calcium) and tastes like a vanilla milkshake with almost no trace of kale. For lunch I split the Kale Colossus Salad (Sunflower "sausage," marinated mushrooms, red peppers and onions, nacho "cheese," cashew cheese, sliced bananas and cranberries) and the Italian Sandwich (Sunpower "sausage" sundried marinara, cashew cheese & veggies served on a fluffy wheat bun) and it was BEYOND delicious. My fellow 818 girlfriend and I were blown away by how un- veganish it all was.

Sunpower's mission is that they "don't fry it, kill it or overcook it. All dishes are dairy-free and most are gluten free and low glycemic." They also make all of their own dressings, sauces, pizza crusts and burgers from scratch with fresh, organic ingredients that are not only taste amazing, but are nutrient dense and good for you!

When your body is craving something healthy- get your booty to Sunpower Natural Cafe. If I'm wrong, there is an In & Out across the street;)

SunPower Natural Organic Cafe
3711 Cahuenga Blvd
Studio City, CA 91604
(818) 308-7420
sunpowernatural.com

Too Drool For School

Two years ago, I confessed to my husband A.K.A "Valley Guy" (let's never tell him I call him that -mmmkay?) that I had never tried Indian food. He couldn't believe this news and within minutes I was devouring an assortment of curry delights.
I LOVED it.
The flavors, the spices, the butter! I have always felt super guilty about indulging in Indian cuisine- it can't possibly taste that delicious and be good for me, right?
That was until I discovered the healthiest most amazing Indian spot- right here in the old 818!

Family owned and operated, Gangadin has been serving up mouthwatering food since 1984.
Every dish is cooked from scratch with no MSG, butter, sugar, preservatives or animal fat added. All of their sauces (green mint chutney, tamarind sauce and mango chutney) are fresh and flavorful and available for purchase every Sunday at the Studio City farmers market.
Gangadin imports Basmati rice, Basmati Brown Rice, gram flour, organic wheat flour and spices directly from India. Their samosas are handmade and I literally have no words for the warm garlic naan.

Vegans flock to this place (one hipster we spoke with comes all the way from Silverlake to get his tofu curry on) as Gangadin truly cares about your weird eating habits and does whatever they can to accommodate you.

Delivery is hassle free and speedy and they even have an iPhone app so u can order Tikka Masala on the fly.

Gangadin
12067 Ventura Place
Studio City, CA 91604
818-509-0722
gangadin.biz

Locals Only

Oh Cozy's....how un-cozy you were. I had the sheer pleasure of attending a company Christmas party there a few years ago and vowed to never return to the beer & urine scented establishment. That all changed last night, when I realized the dark and dingy venue had been gutted and flipped into an amazing new "eat pub" called The Local Peasant.

The place truly has no remanence of its former self... thank the sweet lord. The decor is clean and stylish and the vibe is warm and completely inviting. 80's tunes filled the room all night which made this Valley Girl seriously happy. Although, I will miss the drunk middle aged men taking advantage of open mic night.

The Local Peasant serves 20 California & Belgium Keg Beers as well as 6 bottled beers, but the highlight in the alcohol department in my lush opinion would be the Pre & Post Prohibition Cocktails. My favs were the Watermelon Cocktail (Fresh Watermelon, Silver rum, Lime, Simple Syrup & Mint) and the Moscow Mule (Ginger Puree, Vodka, Lime, Simple Syrup & Orange Peel.) My husband's margarita was made with the finest tequila and fresh lime juice without any icky sweet & sour mix. They only use super fresh ingredients and you won't find anything artificial in anything they serve.

Now for the food....
The Peasant Burger comes with cheese, onion and a fried egg. If you are veggie, they offer a Portobello Mushroom Burger served on a brioche bun with oven roasted tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, pesto, sprouts, avocado, and fried onions. Holy crap.
Some other delicious offerings:
Grilled Peach Salad, Blue Cheese Fried Olives, Carlsbad Mussels, Mac & Cheese with bacon & black truffle oil, Fish & Chips, Drunken Chicken, Lamb Chops, Short Ribs...drool.

The Local Peasant is in the middle of a soft opening. There is currently no sign or website. Official launch is December 1st. I would HIGHLY recommend getting in there before the word gets out.

The Local Peasant
14058 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91432
(818) 501-0234

Thinspiration

You know this story all too well--- "I will start my diet on Monday" "No more carbs starting tomorrow" "No more dairy, sugar, or gluten" "I'm giving up grapes- they are making me fat....but just the purple ones."

It's no secret that we are living in a diet obsessed culture and the 818 is not exempt from the Hollywood standard of looking like a hot piece of ass at all times.
I spent many years in the diet vortex, every week it was a different ridiculous plan. Grapefruits, juice fasts, I even did a series of the dreaded colonic. I was driving myself and my body absolutely bananas. (Gave those up as well by the way.)

I started to notice a friend of mine looking really good. Like, really REALLY good. Naturally, I assumed she was starving herself and working out 6 hours a day. To my surprise she gave all the credit to her healthy diet and the woman that put it all into perspective for her- obviously I called this miracle worker for an appointment STAT.

Within minutes of meeting fellow valley girl Kim Shapira, I instantly wanted to be her best friend. Not only was she completely adorable and her energy infectious but she gave me the confidence I needed to make the changes towards a healthier me. I trusted her. I loved her approach. I was excited, dedicated, and before I knew it- 6 pounds lighter. All of this occurred with good old fashioned diet and exercise my friends- no stimulants, cleanses or baby food. Kim gave me a plan that included foods I thought I would never see again-- even bananas and purple grapes!

Kim specializes in weight loss/management, eating disorders, food allergies, diabetes, IBS, high cholesterol, and much more. I truly feel like Kim Shapira has changed my life, she ended my weight roller coaster and after almost a year of working with her she has kept me on track. Do yourself and your body a favor and call her for a consult pronto. Tell her Valley Girl sent you;)

Kim Shapira
21243 Ventura Blvd, Suite 137
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
818-715-9517
kimshapira@aol.com
kimshapira.com

Don't Mind If I Do

When's the last time you visited Magnolia Boulevard in Burbank? Think somewhere between Hollywood Way & Buena Vista. Well if its been awhile you are surely due for a trip.

This hot stretch of vintage and retail heaven is no longer littered with bad thrift stores and run down pawn shops. Over the past few years, Magnolia Park (who knew it had a name?) has grown into its own little retro village. Those thrift stores still exist but they have somehow morphed into slightly cooler more hipster-esque versions with some unbelievable finds. (Yea I'm looking at you Strawberry Shortcake lunchbox.)

Not to mention that Magnolia Boulevard is home of the Best Cupcakes: http://donthatethe818.blogspot.com/2009/12/best-cupcakes.html

But I digress...

The real reason I want you to visit this street is Mindful Nest. This store is so good I cannot wait to share it with you. Inside you will find "adornments for the home, body and soul." Which in my world translates to: I want to buy everything and anything that is inside of this place.
That includes goodies such as jewelry, pottery, prints, stationary, cards, journals, and other handmade rarities. Owners Amanda Vernon & Diane Jackson could not be nicer and are always quick and happy to help you with whatever you need. They are also devoted to supporting local artists and small American companies. Don't you just love that?

Now that I have discovered Mindful Nest, I will consider this my one stop shop for birthdays and holidays as there truly is something for everyone here. Even my husband who is highly allergic to shopping, enjoys our Sunday trips to the Nest. (That's what the kids are calling it these days.) This could have something to do with the Bug House vintage record & tape prints I got him here for his birthday. No one steps foot in our house without commenting on these.

Not only do they have incredible artwork & jewelry that you won't find anywhere else but they have a store inside the store full of sulfate and paraben free body products called Klean Spa. These products smell unbelievable and I basically own 90% of the line and can tell you it's crazy yummy.

Mindful Nest has only been open for a year and they are already opening their second location in someplace called Santa Monica. Never heard of it.

Mindful Nest
3319 W Magnolia Blvd
Burbank, CA 91505
(818) 840-0123
mindfulnest.net
kleanspa.com

That's A Wrap

I'm not gonna lie... every once in awhile, I will come across a find that I love so much- I like to keep it to myself. Call me selfish (you wouldn't be the first) but sometimes it just takes me a second to share my good fortune.

This has been the case with the Tarzana Armenian Deli. My husband and I discovered this diamond in the rough a few years ago, and we have been addicted ever since.

Tarzana Armenian Deli is the self proclaimed "Home of the Original Pita Wrap" and let me assure you, they definitely know what they are doing when it comes to wrapping. They will stuff anything in there from cajun turkey to cheesesteak to grape leaves. (More on those later.)

Each wrap comes with your choice of white or wheat pita (carbo-phobic? They will wrap it in lettuce for you!) all the veggie fixings, and my favorite part.... string cheese!! Yeah you heard me, string cheese.

They also serve a monster sized falafel plate, greek salad, baba ghanoush, hummus, tabouli, baked eggplant, and the most delicious lemon infused grape leaves I have ever tasted. Whatever you do... do not miss out on these!!

Brothers JT & Jim opened the original Tarzana location in 1973 and later the Studio City location in 1999. Chances are you will see one of these siblings wrapping up some goodness for you during the lunch hour rush. Don't forget to tell them that Valley Girl sent you;)

Prices are fantastic, service is speedy and they serve Tab. Do I need to say more?

Tarzana Location:
18598 Ventura Blvd
Tarzana, CA 91356
(818) 225-1854

Studio City Location:
11288 Ventura Blvd
Studio CIty, CA 91604
(818) 487-7168

www.tagdeli.com
www.facebook.com/TarzanaArmenianDeli

A Tan After My Own Heart

Remember a few weeks ago-- when you were all complaining about the July gloom? (Don't pretend like it wasn't your Facebook status at least once.) Well- be careful what you wish for kids because summer is officially here and my pasty legs clearly didn't get the memo.
Sure you can sit by the pool or haul ass to the beach, but a true 818er knows that a.) when the valley heat really kicks in, laying out isn't all that fun and b.) the beach can suck it.

Eleven months out of the year I'm Casper The Unfriendly Ghost, but something about August makes me crave that bronzy goddess hue. Due to my insane vanity and the ever present fear of aging I will never fake n bake (that is an absolute no-no) and I also refuse to walk around looking like Snookie's long lost sister, so I'm very careful when it comes to self tanning. I've tried every at home method from tan towelettes to stinky moisturizers that promise J Lo legs in 24 hours. (More like Oompa Loompa legs and two toned heels.)

Finally I have found the answer to my tanning woes. Spray tanning at its best in a Don't Hate The 818 approved hideaway.

Spray Di Sole Organic Sunless Spray Tan is natural, chemical free and completely odorless. No store front, no cheesy George Hamilton lookalike at the front desk, no pressure to buy expensive extender lotions. Just an effortless spray tan that leaves you looking like you just spent the weekend in Palm Springs. All in about 30 minutes. The tan lasts about 7-10 days and when you are done with it, simply exfoliate it off.

The Spray Di Sole team also make house calls so keep them in mind for a big event or a fun girls night!

Spray Di Sole
12240 Ventura Blvd. Suite 102
Studio City, CA 91604
(818)454-4517
spraydisole.com

Happy Feet

You know that part of a pedicure when you see the green tea scented lotion coming your way, so you put your Vogue down, give your friend the "stop talking to me look," close your eyes, and brace yourself for a banging foot massage? I love that part. I get my toes painted for that part. But most of the time, it lasts about 30 seconds per foot and always leaves me unsatisfied.

Well now you can enjoy that delightful experience for a full 30 minutes or more at a ridiculously fair price without the acetone contact high. (Although I often don't mind that part.)

Foot Inspiration in Sherman Oaks is truly an oasis in the middle of a Subway strip mall. Upon arrival, you will find a dimly lit room filled with eight reclining chairs, soothing spa music, and an aromatic scent that to my excitement was far from foot like.
The facility is immaculately clean, and each foot basin has a sanitary lining to protect you from any nasties that try to sneak in. As your feet soak in a warm wood tub, your neck, shoulders and arms are rubbed into sheer bliss. Then your feet are taken out of the tub and massaged with lotion ending with a hot towel wrap. Every therapist is certified in reflexology so you can be rest assured that you will always have a good experience.

Don't have a foot fetish? Foot Inspiration also offers full body massage and every treatment is done fully clothed (sorry lads, no happy endings here;) so it makes your stop on the relaxation train that much easier.

Wanna hear the best best BEST part??? 30 minutes is only $17 and one full hour is only $27. Money well spent if you ask me!

Foot Inspiration
14322 Ventura Blvd
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
(818) 461-9241
Monday-Sunday 10am-9pm
*Appointments Recommended*

No Dairy Queen

Every once in awhile I will be driving in the beautiful 818 and a newfound spot will catch my eye. (Note: this is very rare, because duh - I know everything.)

So when I spotted KindKreme on Ventura Boulvard the other day, I figured it was just another Pinkberry knock off. Once I took a closer look I couldn't believe my judgmental eyes... was I really seeing a vegan, raw, organic dessert shop in the Valley?! I just HAD to pull over and check this place out.

I know what you are thinking. Vegan ice cream = barf. You must trust me on the deliciousness of this place! Not only does KindKreme not taste like ass, but they have some of the most incredible flavor options. (Ginger Basil, Beet Ginger Grapefruit, Loquat Carrot Lemon) The Dirty Chai instantly caught my eye (intentional rhyme) and it did not disappoint. What makes it dirty you ask? Espresso:) I truly did not miss the dairy one bit. (As you know by my previous cheese post- dairy and I are pretty tight.)

They also offer Banana Splits, Sundaes, Smoothies, Cold Pressed Coffees, Fresh Juices, and Shakes made with their house made almond milk. (I mean, house made almond milk!? Can this place get anymore amazing?)
Topping options include: Fresh Seasonal Fruit, Raw Caramel Syrup, Dagoba Chocolate Chips, Newman O's & Raw Cacao Nibs. Everything at Kindkreme is hand crafted daily in small batches in their on site kitchen.

I am so grateful to have found this non dairy frozen heaven before the valley summer heat kicks in!

KindKreme
3701 Cahuenga Blvd
Studio City, CA 91604
(818) 308-6758
kindkreme.com

Hours
Mon - Thurs: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm
Fri: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
Sat: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm
Sun: 11:00 am - 7:00 pm

New Format

The Valley is just too good--- instead of calling certain places "The Best" I'm going to just keep you in the loop and let you know what you shouldn't be missing out on. Good? Good.

Best Cheese Shop

My job as the valley's resident blogger is to bring you the hidden gems that are generally off the beaten path. We all know that Nozawa has delicious sushi, Aroma Cafe is an awesome breakfast/lunch spot, and that Casa Vega is a dark enough venue to be drunk and unrecognizable - so there really isn't any point in me blogging about them.

But I literally couldn't sleep at night knowing that I haven't given a shout out to the Artisan Cheese Gallery. I mean, this place holds such a special spot in my triple cream heart- I just can't ignore it any longer.

Proudly displayed on Ventura Boulevard, Artisan Cheese Galley is a crack den for cheese and food lovers alike. Yes, their cheese selection is extraordinary and the service could not be friendlier- but let's get serious here and talk about their insanely yummy sandwiches. Dilly Egg Salad, Prosciutto & Brie, Duck Confit, Garlic Roasted Lamb, Bacon & Cheddar....the list is endless. Although, the star of the show in my not so humble opinion is the ACG Muffaletta. This delicious creation is filled with salami, spicy capacolla, mortadella, fresh mozzarella, olive relish & dijon mustard. (Excuse me, you're drooling) Top that off with a glass of Pinot Noir (yes, they serve vino) and you are not allowed to complain about anything, ever.

If you are having a dinner party or just a people who want to eat cheese party, I highly recommend their incredible platters adorned with nuts and dried fruit. You surely can't step foot in the Hollywood Bowl this summer without a basket of goodies from The Artisan Cheese Gallery.

Artisan Cheese Gallery
12023 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604
(818) 505-0207
www.artisancheesegallery.com

**Check their website for information on monthly cheese & wine tasting events**

Best of Everything Doggie

If you know me, you are well aware of my complete and utter love of animals. I must admit, I generally like them more than most people. (I kid;)
My dog Coco is a rescue and was abused before I got her- so I can't just drop her off at any dog groomer or dog park because her social anxiety and fear truly get the best of her- so I'm extremely picky and research the heck out of a place before I make an appointment. Many of you have asked me for the best places to take your little guys, so I have decided to compile a list of my favorite doggie/cat destinations. Enjoy!

Best Vet:

Sherman Oaks Veterinary Group:
13624 Moorpark Street
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423-3792
(818) 784-9977

Excellent vet- very helpful and they truly care about your animal. They even offer acupuncture and holistic options in lieu of uncomfortable procedures. PLEASE wherever you go- at least Yelp your vet to make sure they have a good reputation.


Best Doggie Day Care & Grooming:

Sam's Play It To The Bone
11736 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, California 91604
Grooming: 818-754-0900
Day Care: 818-763-2904

Owner Sam is the nicest man on the planet and they will treat your dog like royalty.

Best Mobile Groomer:

Sophistidog@yahoo.com
www.sophistidog.com

They come to your door (will travel as far as San Bernardino) and use eco friendly grooming products. Spent over an hour with Coco and she looked stunning!! (see picture if you don't believe me:)

Best Pet Supply:

Rusty's Discount Pet Center
11672 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604-2613
(818) 769-9085

Great selection, extremely helpful and you're supporting a fantastic local business instead of shopping at Petco or Pet Smart.

Best Shopping Spree:

Maxwell Dog
12336 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604-2508
(818) 505-8411

Most adorable collars, leashes, and doggie outfits. They will even make your dog a cake on their birthday!

Best Animal Rescue:
Pet Orphans of Southern California
7720 Gloria Avenue Van Nuys, CA 91406
(818) 901 - 0190
www.petorphansfund.org

Rescuing an animal will be the most rewarding thing you ever do- and they will be forever grateful to you for doing so!

Best Facial

Skin care is something I'm super passionate about-- ever since I was a little valley girl, I have been completely obsessed with beauty products and I am always searching for the latest and greatest ways to keep my mug in tip top shape.

I have been to the fanciest of estheticians and the highest of the high end spas. If you were featured in a magazine or have your own line of skin care products, you have most likely given my pores a squeeze or two.
After hundreds of wasted dollars and a medicine cabinet full of products that barely work, I have officially found my final destination in skin care.
Leave it to the good old 818 to really hook a girl up!

Founded by Kristy Swailes Konopka, KLS Skin Care in Toluca Lake is the kind of gem you want to tell all of your best girlfriends about. Seriously. Kristy's approach to skin is completely personalized and she believes that no two faces have the same needs. She will take in all of your wants and concerns and create a regimen that is best suited for you. Side note: she does all of this and throws in a wicked massage that will leave you drooling on the table.

The good news- you won't find a store front or a cranky receptionist here- the facility is completely secluded in your own private oasis. (KLS won't even give you the address until your appointment is booked.)
Another plus- Kristy has a gentle, holistic approach to skin care and only uses the best natural products that are free of toxins and nasty parabens. Each facial is customized and a 75 minute one will run you about a hundred bucks.

Best News Ever: Mention Don't Hate The 818 and Kristy will take 20% off your first treatment. Tell your friends, spread the word because before you know it- appointments will be hard to come by.

KLS Skin Care
www.klsskincare.com
Kristy@klsskincare.com
(818)647.1394

Best Sandwich

Joey Tribbiani and I have one thing in common...our complete and utter love of the sandwich. I'm not talking Subway or Quizno's, I'm talking about a real deal Italian style sandwich with delicious bread complete with a yummy array of toppings.

In my opinion, the best sandwich on earth (yea that's right- EARTH) comes from Bay Cities Italian Deli in Santa Monica. Nothing beats that place with its perfect italian market and I pray everyday for a valley location, but I digress...

Over the years, I have been on the search to find a sandwich shop in the 818 that will curb my BC craving until I travel to the other side. (Which is not often!)

Let me introduce you to DeFranko's Submarines in Van Nuys. Literally tucked away near the Van Nuys Airport, DeFranko's is very easy to miss. The entire family owned establishment is the size of a closet but what you will find inside will amaze you. Extremely large sandwiches filled with your choice of meat, cheese, pickles, tomatoes, onions, italian seasoning, italian oil, and salt/pepper- served inside a massive italian style sesame seed roll. (Trust me on this, the large is not for the faint of heart....order the small it's plenty!!!)

Another important note: this joint blows up and there is often a line out the door. There are no tables, only 5 barstools that are almost never open, so I suggest you get your order to go.

There is no replacement for the ultimate sandwich but when you don't have time to wait in an hour long line and you want to stay in the heartland, head over to DeFranko's, you can thank me later.

DeFranko's Submarines
7532 Woodley Ave
Van Nuys, CA 91406
(818) 780-9556
www.defrankos.com

Best Breakfast

I take breakfast very seriously. After all, it's the most important meal of the day!

The Valley definitely has its fair share of breaky options (Jumpin Java, Cici's, Good Neighbor) but Nat's Early Bite in Van Nuys holds the key to my greasy heart.

If you are looking for an old school hole in the wall spot with large portions and small prices- Nat is your man.

Nat's menu has all of the usual breakfast suspects- omelets, scrambles, pancakes, french toast, waffles, biscuits & gravy etc...but what sets this neighborhood goodie apart from the impostors? Everything at Nat's is homemade- including their delicious baked goods and fresh fruit jams. Another plus- the coffee is strong (and my cup is always full) which in my humble opinion, is the key to a perfect breakfast experience. They even have vanilla coffee creamer- I mean, come on!

Some of you (me) are going to complain about the parking and the long wait on the weekends because yes it sucks. So let's just know that going in-- get there early and take some deep breaths.

Nat's Early Bite Coffee Shop
14115 Burbank Blvd
Van Nuys, CA 91497
(818) 781-3040

Best Gourmet Cafe

Yes you read that right, the 818 has its very own take out/eat in gourmet cafe. (Take that Joan's on 3rd!)

I must admit, after checking out the menu online (i.e. drooling all over my keyboard) this foodie had some very high expectations for Sweetsalt Food Shop in Toulca Lake.

Upon arrival, I was instantly greeted by owners and adorable husband and wife team Alex Eusebio & Sara Mann and before I knew it- I was sipping on daily soup samples. (Roasted Fennel with Truffle & Wild Mushroom)

As I approached the counter to order my lunch, my palms began to sweat...what do I order? So many delicious options to choose from...

Do I go with the Roasted Vegetable Salad with Goat Cheese & Pulled Herbs, the Sweetsalt BLT made with roasted pears & chevre, the Grilled Cheese Panini with cheddar, gruyere & manchego (what??!!?) or the Short Rib Roll complete with onion confit, goat cheese, roasted garlic & arugula on a brioche bun??? Clearly they weren't kidding around with the whole gourmet thing.
I decided on the Organic Grain Salad (quinoa, couscous, haricot vert, roasted fennel & parsley) although my inner fat girl just wanted the Charcuterie Plate (3 cheeses, choice of protein, fig paste, and baguette) & Chocolate Carmel Bread Pudding.
My flavorful salad did not disappoint and I'm sure it was just as satisfying as the Croque Monsieur. (ok maybe not- but it was super delicious!)

All of the dishes are reasonably priced and the portions are just right. I would suggest checking this place out before a line out the door starts to form!!

SweetSalt Food Shop
10218 1/2 Riverside Drive
Toluca Lake, CA 91602
(818) 509-7790
www.sweetsaltfood.com
*Closed on Sundays*

Best Auto Body/ Repair Shop

I must admit, this Valley Girl is not the best driver. In fact, in the past 2 years- I have had 3 MAJOR run ins with inanimate objects. (Where the hell did that pole come from??) Sometimes I even amaze myself with this talent of constantly having my passenger door replaced. (Twice, thank you very much)

Enter Gerado of Shakas Auto Body in Van Nuys. In my humble opinion, Gerado is truly the valley's best kept secret. He has done some of the most amazing work I've ever seen and for a third of the price of most body shops.

Gerado is a total sweetheart and even picked my best friend up at the scene of her accident and drove her to the rental car place. No job too big or small, he really does it all and in a timely fashion so you don't waste hundreds of dollars on a rental. He wants you to get the best deal so you keep coming back and refer your friends.

Gerado - Shakas Auto Body
7004 Van Nuys Blvd
Van Nuys, CA 91405
(818) 782-0821
Cell: (310) 597-6194

Best Brazilian Blowout

"Life Changing," "Best money I ever spent," "How did I ever live without this?" ... these are just some of the statements people are making about the Brazilian Blowout. (No, not THAT kind of brazilian silly;)

If you have frizzy, processed or damaged hair- this beauty indulgence is a must but it comes with a hefty price tag. Depending on the length of your hair, a Brazilian will cost you anywhere between $350-$600. Not exactly a recessionista bargain.

Sabrina Silvers at Bree Salon in Studio City is your new best friend forever ladies.
Not only is she beyond adorable with an infectious loveliness to her, but she will give you the best most thorough Brazilian Blowout and won't charge you Beverly Hills prices. A Brazilian with Sabrina (formaldehyde free- which is the ONLY kind you should be getting) will run you about $250 and results will last 4-6 months.

Now you don't have to deal with those snobby over the hill prices or attitudes. Did I just say that?

Sabrina Silvers
Bree Salon
12180 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604-2517
(818) 508-4500