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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.

​Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill – A Steakhouse FavoriteThere are plenty of Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill locations, and we’ve tried quite a few—but this one has quickly become an all-time favorite.
The FoodThe menu has a lot to offer, but for us, the ribeye steak is the star of the show. It’s always cooked exactly the way we ask, juicy, flavorful, and consistently perfect every time.
The Caesar salad deserves a mention too—fresh, crisp, and always spot on. And of course, no visit to Wood Ranch is complete without their warm bread rolls served before dinner. They’re soft, buttery, and addictive (though it’s easy to fill up on them before the main course, so pace yourself!).
The ExperienceThe restaurant itself is quite large, which usually means you don’t have to wait long for a table. For those who prefer a more casual setting, there’s also generous bar seating available.
The ServiceOne of the things that sets this location apart is the consistently excellent service. The staff is attentive, friendly, and ensures that every visit is as good as the last.
Final ThoughtsWhenever we get a hankering for a perfectly cooked steak, Wood Ranch is at the top of our list. Between the ribeye, the bread rolls, and the always-reliable service, it’s a place we look forward to coming back to again and again.