EwingSIR | Calabasas Homes for sale | Sherman Oaks Homes | Agoura Homes | Hidden Hills Ca Homes

4 Best Tasting Rooms in Los Angeles

A isn’t quite the wine capital of California…

By: Deena Nissley

…but that hasn’t stopped more than 50 vineyards in the Santa Monica Mountains from producing delicious bottles of vino.

Malibu Family Wines
The wines featured here represent the bounty of the grapes harvested from the Semler family’s 1,000 acre estate in the SM mountains. There’s often an event here in addition to the standard tasting so whether you’re looking for a movie night or live music, make sure to check the schedule before you go.
31740 Mulholland Hwy., Malibu (818-865-0605)

Sip Malibu
At the Cielo Winebar, grab a seat at one of the shaded hillside tables and enjoy one of four wine flights for between $10 and $15. Some flights are Napa-focused, so if you want to try the local flavor, choose the reds.
2598 Sierra Creek Rd., Agoura (818-865-0440)

Rosenthal Estate Wines
Though the sprawling vineyard is closed to the general public, stop by the tasting room just off the PCH to try the estate’s wines and Surfrider wines for between $12 and $15. If you’re on your way North, make sure to snap up a bottle to prove to your NorCal buddies that SoCal can compete.
26023 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu (310-456-1392)

Cornell Winery and Tasting Room
Despite the name, there isn’t actually a winery here. Instead, they rotate the wineries they feature which gives you a reason to keep coming back. For $15, you’ll get to taste eight different wines while you browse the peacock-inhabited grounds and the gallery.
29975 Mulholland Hwy., Cornell (818-735-3542)

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Tags: 4 Best Winery's in Los Angeles, Deena Nissley

The Lifeguard Tower Project

Our Los Angeles lifeguard towers are turning into a work of art

By: Deena Nissley

Feast your eyes upon The Lifeguard Tower Project, set to dominate more than 30 miles of beach this summer.

Basically, every lifeguard tower for miles in either direction—from north of Malibu to south of Hermosa—is about to get an extreme makeover of patterns and colors so bright you’ll see them from your next flight out of LAX. (They’re doing the roofs too.)

The rails were painted over the weekend, and by mid-May the new looks will be in place through September, all thanks to the civic-minded bunch at Portraits of Hope, the same group that brightened whole fleets of NYC taxis not so long ago.

In addition to giving you something noble to discuss with your favorite lifeguard in residence (the artists are kids and volunteers), this project finally grants you the long-awaited opportunity to go to the museum… by going to the beach.

Maybe now LACMA will take a second look at your beach chair.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Tags: Deena Nissley, The Lifeguard Tower Project

How to Find Your Lunch Truck without Twitter

Mobile lunch trucks are easier to find

By: Deena Nissley

The problem with food trucks is that they’re so… mobile.

And sometimes your stomach doesn’t want to wait for you to slog through pages of Twitter, only to find out Kogi’s heading to Santa Clarita.

So I’d like to present the most important culinary invention since… the food truck. Introducing the RoadStoves GPS app, now available.

Basically, this long-overdue device doesn’t rely on (or wait for) Twitter updates from driver-chefs as they careen down Wilshire in a haze of burger smoke.

All you have to do is pull up the app, then select “Near Me,” and you’ll see the list of trucks within a few miles of you, in real time—thanks to the magic of, yes, GPS, which pulls location info from participating trucks every couple of minutes, whether or not there’s been any tweeting. Select the nearby truck that strikes your fancy, and you can easily grab driving directions, the menu and, if you want, their Twitter feed.

A couple caveats. The thing just launched, and it’s only got RoadStoves trucks—Kogi, Baby’s Badass Burgers, the Grilled Cheese Truck—for now, 21 total. But you can expect that number to rise very quickly.

Like the number of trucks did.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Tags: Deena Nissley, mobile food truck application, Roadstoves

Downtown Drinking 24 Floors Up

24 Heaven

The Lounge at WP24

By: Deena Nissley

As much as you’re enjoying Downtown’s new renaissance period, you still feel like it’s missing something.

Something classy, with sweeping views, spicy drinks and some Baby Pork Belly Bao Buns.

Good news: it’s been found. Welcome to The Lounge at WP24, now soft-open on the 24th floor of the new Ritz-Carlton at LA Live.

Hang a right out of the elevator, and the sprawling lounge will reveal itself gradually. First is the bar, where you can down an Umami Cocktail (gin, ume plum, cucumber and shiso leaf) to take the edge off the 110 traffic.

Then you’ll be ready to settle into the two-tiered modern cavern beyond. Take a seat near the giant wall of windows at a small, brightly colored tree trunk if you two are just here for the gin-enhanced view (there’s one ring for every round). Or find sanctuary in the larger semiprivate circular coves farther back if you’re gathered here for canoodling purposes or for the game on TV.

Technically, this could all be viewed as mere foreplay for the actual restaurant at the other end—WP stands for Wolfgang Puck, and the dining room opens soon—but watching the sun go down over asian plates of dumplings, Peking Duck Rolls and sashimi, paired with a tequila and jalapeño-spiked Dragon’s Fire… you might just stick with the foreplay.

Just this once.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Tags: Deena Nissley, Oakpointe Community, Ritz-Carlton at LA Live, The Lounge at WP24

Gotta Try it this Weekend

Get Chaya for cheap, new surf gear for half price, and Zooey Deschanel for a song.

By: Deena Nissley

New Drawers: Hurley Boardshorts Upgrade
Trade in any pair of board shorts and get Hurley’s new limited edition Phantom with Nike Flywire.
Win a surf trip: One upgrader will get a trip to the Mentawai Islands with Rob Machado.
Sat 4-6p. ZJ Boarding House, 2619 Main St., Santa Monica (310-392-5646). Nearby: The Galley; Urth Caffe; Chaya Go

See Zooey Sing: She & Him She and Him
Monster of Folk M. Ward joins with celeb chanteuse Deschanel, touring in support of their second record, the aptly named Volume Two.
Watch the video: High school-style “In The Sun” is directed by Bring It On director Peyton Reed.
Tonight 8p. El Rey, 5515 Wilshire Blvd. (323-936-6400). $23 here. Nearby: Little Bar; Frank N Hanks; Three Clubs

Cheap Eats: Chaya Pop-Up
Get all you can eat (and drink) for just $20 — from spicy tuna to edamame and sake — at this nearby pop-up while the Venice outpost is remodeled.
Sushi for a cause: Proceeds benefit C-CAP (Careers through Culinary Arts Program).
Sat thru Weds 5-10p. 245 Main St., Venice (310-396-1179). $20 per person. Nearby: Library Alehouse; Cache; Finn McCool’s

Daytime Date: The Avenues Annual Art and Design Walk
Walk to more than 90 design, fashion, and food events hosted by individual showrooms, with discounts and entertainment.
Don’t miss: Champagne, a burlesque interpretation of Alice in Wonderland, and an “Erotic Lifestyle Drawing Class” at Coco De Mer.
Fri 10a-6p; Sat 12-8p. Various WeHo locations.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Tags: Deena Nissley

Gold and Silver Trading?

By: Deena Nissley

If you’re look to get some extra cash or trade in some jewelry, I have a solution for you. I am having a Gold and Silver party at my house this coming Monday,  March 22nd 6:00-8:00 PM, where you trade in your old gold and silver jewelry, or tea servers etc., for cash! You can even leave your goodies with me beforehand if you can’t make it, and I will get you a price.

If you have anything you can come and trade.  Look forward to seeing everyone.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Tags: Deena Nissley, Gold and Silver trading

Jerry Seinfeld Live at the Saban Theatre

What’s the deal with Jerry Seinfeld for one night only?

By: Deena Nissley

You’ve been waiting for this since 1998, playing back your favorite episodes, even adding Vandalay Industries to your resume.

The wait is over, pal. Your favorite observational comic is back on stage for one night only in Jerry Seinfeld Live! hosted by George
(er, Jason Alexander).

Ticket sales support Reprise Theatre  — where Alexander is Artistic Director — and its mission to produce great musical theater.

Snag seats now fast, since tickets went on sale at 10 am Monday. Click to buy tickets here to make your dream come true. You’ll be laughing like a schoolgirl. For one night, at least.

Not that there’s anything wrong with that.

Jerry Seinfeld Live! hosted by Jason Alexander
Thursday, April 8 at 8p
Saban Theatre (formerly The Wilshire Theatre)
8440 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills (323) 655-0111
Tickets: $40-$150 here

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Tags: Deena Nissley, Jerry Seinfeld, Saban Theatre

Los Angeles Audition Tips

Your Audition’s Secret Weapon

By: Deena Nissley

Today we’re here to help you with the quintessential Los Angeles experience.

No, we don’t mean spotting Jason Priestley in line with soy milk at Ralphs—we mean totally nailing your lines at your next big audition. (And even if you don’t have a next big audition, you may want to land one after you see this app.)

Introducing Rehearsal, helping you get from the callback to the set, now available.

Basically, it’s a little like having Stella Adler in your pocket (or at least the housekeeper you normally run lines with). When your agent sends over your sides, just import them into the app and start breaking down your character, wherever you are. You can highlight your lines, black them out to see if you remember all of them, and record yourself and play it back until you get the inflection/smoldering intensity just how you want it.

And if there’s something you want to use for motivation at a particular turn—a lazing palm tree, a plastic bag dancing in the wind, a mirror—you can capture a quick photo or video, and attach it to the relevant bit of dialogue.

We’d say you’re a lock for Pedestrian #3.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Tags: Audition's Secret Weapon, Deena Nissley, how to nail an audition

Valentine’s in Los Angeles

The best gifts for Valentine’s Day

By: Deena Nissley

Dinner reservation: check. Now cover all your gifting bases, from trinkets to trips.

The Surprise
Lingerie from Wundervoll has a touch of Berlin kink, yet remains wearable. Their silk bras and matching bottoms have ’70s soundtrack-style names like Rock ‘n’ Roll, Percussion, and Boom-Chick-A-Boom.
$55 and up here or at Sugar Lilie Dessous Prives, 8024 W. Third St. (323-655-0795) and Ten Over Six, 7427 Beverly Blvd. (323-330-9355).

The Shine
In silver or gold, Italian-made Dodo charms allow you to give a bracelet with a message. Each animal-shaped piece has a specific meaning (the rocking horse is “let’s play together,” while the shark says “I can take care of myself”), letting you express simple, complex, or completely contradictory sentiments.
$140 (comes with waxed cotton bracelet) here, or at Bloomingdale’s, 10250 Santa Monica Blvd. (310-772-2100‎).

The Shoe
UGG alum Ruthie Davis turned a sheepskin boot into a fashion phenomenon. Her own line is equal parts high-tech, high-glamour, and high-priced: Beyoncé wears a pair in Video Phone. Her spring line was inspired by Barbie, like the studded metallic Cindy sandal ($895) and the strappy patent pump Sushi ($795).
Available here or at Neiman Marcus, 9700 Wilshire Blvd. (310-975-4350).

The Scene
Pack a toothbrush and head to the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs for their February 13th “Doo Wop in the Desert” party. The special package includes room, a $50 credit at the onsite spa, and two tickets to the bash, which features a live band, photo booth, cupcakes and cocktails.
From $439. Sat Feb 13 9p to 2a. Book online with the rate code “Valentine” here. 701 E. Palm Canyon (760-325-9900).

The Scent
British fashion designer Stella McCartney (she’s Paul’s daughter) expands her fragrance line with Stella Nude Linen Mist. It’ll leave a whiff of Moroccan rose, grapefruit, pepper and Ugandan vanilla on her (and hopefully your) pillow.
$59 here or at Sephora

The Snacks
One-stop Deaan and Doluca peddles all varieties of sugar-highs, from hand-iced XO-shaped cookies from Eleni’s (18 cookies, $50) to hand-painted hearts from Chocolat Moderne (12 pieces, $36) and alcohol-infused bonbons from Bond Street chocolates (6 pieces, $28).
Available here.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Tags: Ace Hotel, Deena Nissley, Dodo, Ruthie Davis, Stella McCartney, Valentine's Day, Valentine's in Los Angeles, Wundervoll

SuperBowl Sidebets: Properly preparing for Sunday

By: Deena Nissley

SuperBowl Side bets to make the Big Game more watchable

The biggest bets might be on the winner, but Sunday’s most intriguing action goes down well before the fourth quarter. Here are our party favorites (complete betting lines here).

Oh Say Can You See
How long will it take Carrie Underwood to sing the national anthem? Over/under = 1 minute 42 seconds. (Last year, Jennifer Hudson was timed at 2 minutes 3 seconds.)

Touchdown Antics
The first endzone celebration will be:
Ball spike: 2 to 1
Flex bicep: 4 to 1
Slam dunk football: 5 to 1
Punch goalpost: 15 to 1
Take out Sharpie and sign ball: 20 to 1
Group celebration: 20 to 1
Heisman Trophy pose: 25 to 1
“Ickey” Shuffle: 100 to 1

The Big Easy
How many times will CBS show Bourbon Street during the game? Over/under = 2
How many times will CBS announcers mention Hurricane Katrina during the game? Over/under = 2

Who’s Better, Who’s Better, Who’s Bets
How many times will Pete Townshend do his legendary windmill move? (Windmill move must be a full 360 degree revolution and be shown on TV to be counted.)
If any member of The Who smashes their guitar, what does the guitar hit first?
Floor
Speaker
Microphone
Drummer
Fan

I Like Big Butts and I Cannot Lie
Number of times we see Kim Kardashian: Over/under = 3
What color top will she be wearing? Black, white, other

Big Ups
Who will the Super Bowl MVP thank first?
God
Family
Teammates
Coach
Does not thank anyone

Early Adopters
Will they show clothing apparel proclaiming the Super Bowl Champion before the final whistle?

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Tags: Deena Nissley