​We had the pleasure of dining at Epic, a well-known beachfront restaurant located just a short walk from the Mandarin Hotel along Boracay’s lively sandy strip. Its prime location, just steps from the beach, makes it an ideal spot to enjoy both a meal and the island’s famous sunsets.
We timed our visit to coincide with sunset, and it did not disappoint. Dining with a direct view of the beach as the sun dipped below the horizon created a truly memorable atmosphere. The setting alone makes this a standout destination.
The food was exceptional across the board. The chicken wings were particularly noteworthy—flavorful and perfectly prepared. We also ordered the tomahawk steak, cooked to a precise medium, which was equally impressive in both quality and presentation. The drinks complemented the meal well, with a variety of well-crafted options available.
Service was attentive, friendly, and professional, enhancing the overall dining experience. The staff ensured that everything was handled seamlessly from start to finish.
Overall, Epic delivered an outstanding dining experience, combining excellent food, a prime beachfront setting, and exceptional service. It is a place we would gladly return to and highly recommend for either lunch or dinner while visiting Boracay.

A visit to Full Moon House in Chinatown Los Angeles offers a classic, old-school Chinese dining experience right as you come off the 110 freeway into Chinatown. It’s one of those longtime neighborhood spots that feels rooted in tradition rather than trends.
Walking in, you’re greeted by a large, open dining room with a banquet-style setup—round tables, white tablecloths, and traditional décor, including red accents and hanging elements that give the space a festive yet nostalgic feel. It has that familiar atmosphere of a place designed for family gatherings, group meals, and relaxed dining rather than anything overly modern or polished.
We started with tea, served in traditional metal pots, which immediately set the tone. The food overall was solid—very much what you’d expect from standard Chinese cuisine. Nothing really stood out as exceptional, but it was consistent and satisfying enough. We sampled a variety of dishes, and while everything was decent, it didn’t quite reach that “wow” factor that makes you want to go back for seconds.
That said, this is still a place we’d consider returning to. It may not be out of this world, but it delivers a reliable, familiar experience that fits right in with the character of Chinatown. Sometimes that’s exactly what you’re looking for—a comfortable, no-surprises meal in a setting that feels like it’s been part of the neighborhood for years.
If you’re heading into Chinatown and want a straightforward, traditional Chinese meal in a convenient location, Full Moon House is worth a stop—just go in expecting good, solid food rather than something extraordinary.

​A visit to Beachwood Cafe feels like discovering one of those hidden gems that somehow still manages to stay under the radar in Los Angeles. Tucked away in the scenic hills of Beachwood Canyon, just beneath the iconic Hollywood Sign, the setting alone makes it worth the trip.
The location has a unique charm—you’re just minutes from the city, yet it feels like a quiet escape from the usual LA hustle. The surrounding neighborhood has that classic, historic Hollywood feel, with winding streets and a laid-back atmosphere that makes the experience even more enjoyable.
What really stood out to us, though, was the food. Everything we ordered was delicious—hearty, flavorful, and generously portioned. It’s the kind of place where you leave feeling satisfied, not just because of the quality, but because they don’t hold back on portions. The menu leans toward modern American cuisine with a mix of global influences, offering everything from bold breakfast dishes to comforting lunch and dinner options.
Another big plus is the convenience. Parking, which can be a challenge in many parts of LA, is surprisingly easy here. There’s access to a shared lot behind the café, along with nearby street parking, making the visit much more stress-free. And right next door, there’s a small market—perfect if you need to grab a drink, snack, or anything extra before or after your meal.
The overall vibe is relaxed and welcoming, the kind of place where you could easily spend time lingering over coffee or a full meal. It’s no surprise that people often describe it as a peaceful escape with great food and friendly service.
If you’re looking for a spot that combines great food, generous portions, easy parking, and a unique location with real character, Beachwood Cafe checks all the boxes. It’s definitely a place we’d come back to—and one that’s worth adding to your LA list.

​A visit to Miceli’s Italian Restaurant in Hollywood feels like stepping back into a different era—one where classic red-sauce Italian dining meets old-school Hollywood charm. Tucked just off Hollywood Boulevard, it’s the kind of place that has clearly stood the test of time.
From the moment you walk in, the ambiance sets the tone. The lighting is dim, giving the restaurant a cozy, intimate feel that perfectly complements its vintage character. The walls are famously covered with thousands of signed dollar bills, each one adding to the sense of history and personality that makes this place so unique. It’s not polished or trendy—and that’s exactly the point.
The food is classic Italian comfort cuisine—hearty, generous, and satisfying. Portions are more than enough, and it’s almost expected that you’ll be taking part of your meal home. Everything leans toward that traditional, family-style cooking that fills you up and leaves you content.
But what really sets Miceli’s apart is the entertainment. Every 30 to 40 minutes, the servers gather around the piano—accompanied by a live pianist—and break into operatic songs. It’s unexpected, lively, and adds a layer of fun that you won’t find in most restaurants. It turns dinner into an experience rather than just a meal.
Its location also makes it a great stop before or after a show. With so many theaters nearby, it’s the perfect place to start or end an evening out in Hollywood.
Miceli’s isn’t about being modern or cutting-edge—it’s about tradition, atmosphere, and a dining experience that feels uniquely its own. If you’re looking for something with character, history, and a bit of entertainment along with your meal, this is definitely a spot worth visiting.

We recently visited Gourmet Seafood Buffet in North Hollywood, and unfortunately, we weren’t very impressed. The pricing felt a bit high for what was offered, especially compared to other Asian seafood buffets we’ve been to.
The overall quality just didn’t quite measure up. We sampled a wide variety of dishes, hoping to find a few standouts, but most fell short of expectations and didn’t leave us wanting to go back for seconds. The sushi, in particular, didn’t look very appetizing, so we decided to skip it altogether.
It’s a place we had been meaning to try for a while, so it was disappointing that it didn’t live up to expectations. Hopefully, they make some improvements over time, as it has the potential to be much better. As it stands, it’s not somewhere we’d plan to return to.

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Perch – Brunch with a View in Downtown Los AngelesIn the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, just above Pershing Square, sits one of the city’s most stunning rooftop restaurants—Perch. True to its name, the restaurant is literally perched atop a building, offering panoramic views of the downtown skyline. No matter where you sit, the view is unforgettable, making it one of the best spots in LA for both dining and atmosphere.
The AtmosphereFrom the moment you step onto the rooftop, you’re greeted with a breathtaking 360° view of Los Angeles. Whether it’s brunch in the late morning or cocktails at sunset, there’s truly not a bad seat in the house. The vibe is chic but relaxed, and the energy of the city feels just within reach.
Brunch at PerchWe went for brunch and were delighted with everything from start to finish. To begin, we were served what looked like warm rolls with butter, but were actually blueberry muffin tops—a sweet and delicious surprise.
For mains:

• Philip tried the pasta with marinara sauce and shrimp, a hearty, flavorful dish he really enjoyed.
  
• I went for a unique take on eggs benedict, made with crab cakes and served with perfectly roasted potatoes. Rich, flavorful, and beautifully presented, it was a standout dish.
  

Cocktails with a ViewAfter brunch, we went one story higher to the rooftop lounge, where Perch offers cocktails with even more dramatic views of the city. Sipping a drink while looking out over the skyline was the perfect way to linger a little longer and soak it all in.
Final ThoughtsPerch is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Between the stunning views, the memorable dishes, and the chance to enjoy a cocktail high above the city, it’s a must-visit destination in Los Angeles.
We can’t wait to come back in the evening to see the city lights flicker to life across the skyline. Whether for brunch, dinner, or drinks, Perch delivers a one-of-a-kind LA dining experience.

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Lunch at The Georgian Hotel – A Timeless Santa Monica LandmarkOn a recent afternoon in Santa Monica, we had the chance to dine at one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—the Georgian Hotel. Located on Ocean Avenue, directly facing the Pacific Ocean, this historic hotel has been welcoming guests since 1931, and nearly a century later, it still carries all the charm and elegance of its early days.
A Step Back in TimeThe Georgian’s Art Deco architecture makes a striking impression from the outside, but stepping inside feels like entering another era. The lobby evokes the glamour of the 1930s, and the dining area—set just to the right as you enter—is cozy, comfortable, and full of vintage charm. Plush chairs and period-inspired décor create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and intimate.
Lunch ExperienceWe came for a light lunch and ordered tea and sandwiches, which fit the setting perfectly. Every bite was fresh and well-prepared, and paired with the classic tea service, it made for an experience that felt elegant yet relaxed. For a moment, it was as if we had been transported back in time to the Georgian’s earliest days.
ServiceThe staff added to the experience, with warm, attentive, and genuinely sweet service. They made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived and were happy to share in the hotel’s rich sense of history.
Final ThoughtsOur visit to the Georgian Hotel was more than just lunch—it was a glimpse into Santa Monica’s past, wrapped in old Hollywood elegance and oceanfront charm. With its historic setting, welcoming staff, and unique atmosphere, it’s a place we’ll definitely be returning to.
👉 If you’re in Santa Monica and want to enjoy a meal that’s as much about the setting as the food, put the Georgian Hotel on your list.

​Porto’s Bakery – A Northridge GemPorto’s Bakery has become a beloved staple in many Los Angeles neighborhoods, and we were thrilled when one recently opened in our own—Northridge. Known for its incredible variety of Cuban-inspired dishes, baked goods, and coffee, Porto’s truly has something for everyone.
The FoodOne of our go-to favorites is the ham and cheese croissant sandwich—flaky, buttery, and filled with the perfect balance of savory flavors. Porto’s also serves up a Cuban classic, ropa vieja (shredded roast beef served with rice), which is rich, hearty, and absolutely delicious.
Surprisingly, their clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl is also a standout—comforting, flavorful, and perfectly satisfying.
The BakeryThe bakery case is where Porto’s really shines. It’s impossible not to stop and stare at the rows of cakes, pastries, and cookies. Some of our favorites include:

• The Parisian chocolate cake—rich, decadent, and beautifully made.
  
• Oatmeal raisin cookies—simple, classic, and fantastic.
  
• Fruit tarts—fresh, colorful, and always changing with the seasons.
  
• And of course, their custom cakes. In fact, we loved them so much, we even bought our wedding cake from Porto’s at another location!
  

The CoffeeTo round out the experience, Porto’s offers a full coffee bar. Whether you want a classic latte, a strong Cuban coffee, or one of their seasonal specialty drinks, it’s the perfect way to finish (or start!) your visit.
Final ThoughtsBetween the savory dishes, the indulgent baked goods, and the welcoming atmosphere, Porto’s Bakery is a place you’ll want to return to again and again. We feel lucky to have one in Northridge now, and it has quickly become a neighborhood favorite.
👉 If you’re visiting for the first time, don’t miss the ropa vieja, the ham and cheese croissant sandwich, and definitely save room for something sweet from the bakery case.
Make this one of your must-visit spots—you won’t be disappointed.