OCTOBER 21ST, 2024

MONDAY’S VIBES

IT’S TIME

FOR
DODGER BASEBALL

AFTERNOON VIBES 🧢 Dodgers + LA Vibes:

• Happy Monday, LA! Welcome to an afternoon edition of CuratedLA, with today’s edition reflecting the most updated vibes throughout our favorite city. And of course, news on our Dodgers going to the World Series to face-off in a classic rivalry against the Yankees. Enjoy this afternoon edition, and I will see everyone on Wednesday! Reply to this email if you need me/want to talk about baby dolphins or celebrity surprise shows on YouTube. - Wyatt

HOV LANES

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EATS

HEADLINES

SOBRIETY 🍺 Tom Holland’s Journey Brews Up Non-Alcoholic Beer:

• The rise of mocktails and the movement toward alcohol-free lifestyles has gained traction, with celebrities like Spiderman star Tom Holland leading the charge. After sharing his decision to quit drinking for his role in The Crowded Room, Holland recently announced the launch of Bero, a non-alcoholic beer brand he co-founded with John Herman. The brews are crafted using artisanal techniques to produce a range of flavors, from the sweet and citrusy Noon Wheat to the crisp Kingston Golden Pils. Bero offers a refreshing take on the alcohol-free beverage scene, now available online and shipping across the U.S.

OPENINGS

INGLEWOOD ⚡️ Doritos Launches After Dark Restaurant at Crypto Arena:

• Crypto Arena debuts a bold new dining option with the launch of Doritos After Dark, offering fans late-night bites that elevate classic favorites. The globally inspired menu includes items like the Spicy Sweet Chili Ramen-Rito and Flamin’ Hot Nacho Veggie Dumplings, all incorporating Doritos’ signature crunch. Open exclusively to ticketholders during arena events, the restaurant channels Doritos' ‘For the Bold’ ethos, enhancing meals with unexpected flavors. Fans can also look forward to a one-night-only pop-up Doritos Night Market at L.A. LIVE on November 15th, free to the public.

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

TORRANCE 🇫🇷 A French Eatery Comes to Torrance:

• Délices Du Chef is bringing a slice of France to Torrance. After winning hearts at farmers' markets across Los Angeles, this French bistro has now opened a cozy spot on Crenshaw Boulevard. Expect gourmet classics like boeuf bourguignon, quiche Lorraine, and flaky pastries, all crafted by owners Jean-Luc and Véronique, who honed their culinary chops in Brittany, France. Open Tuesday through Sunday, the restaurant is a must-visit for breakfast or lunch, offering French elegance with a California vibe.

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

SAWTELLE 🍜 A New Ramen Hotspot in Sawtelle:

• Sawtelle’s latest ramen hotspot, Torisoba Sumiya, just opened its doors on October 6th, and it's already buzzing. Specializing in torisoba (chicken-based ramen), this cozy spot offers bowls of charcoal-grilled chicken ramen that are perfect for LA’s cooler nights. Early visitors were treated to 50% off for the first one-hundred customers, but don't worry if you missed out—their promo still runs until the end of October, featuring a free topping or noodle upgrade with a coupon. Swing by for lunch or dinner at 11301 W. Olympic Blvd and savor a unique twist on classic ramen.

  • Instagram

HERMOSA BEACH 🌮 Tacos, Beer and Comfort Food in Hermosa Beach:

• Tacos El Goloso Cantina has just landed in Hermosa Beach, bringing its birria-packed goodness to the South Bay. Known for their crispy Tacos Dorados de Birria and mulitas, this spot is already winning hearts with its savory takes on traditional Mexican fare. Beyond their famous birria tacos, you’ll find creative options like grilled octopus and ahi poke nachos for a refreshing twist. Located on Pacific Coast Highway, it’s perfect for grabbing some hearty street food while enjoying ocean breezes. Definitely a must-try for taco lovers who crave bold flavors with a coastal vibe​.

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

MARINA DEL REY 🍔 Fratelli Cafe Opens Second Location:

• Fratelli Cafe, a beloved Melrose staple, has just opened its second location in Marina del Rey on Washington Blvd. Known for its all-day breakfast and lunch menu, this casual yet upscale spot is a must-visit for locals and visitors alike. Their signature dishes, like Croissant French Toast and savory breakfast burritos, continue to shine, with plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options to keep everyone happy.

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

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EVENTS

MONDAY

TUESDAY

FIVE FUTURES

GUIDES

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ACTIVITIES

EAGLE ROCK 🎸 Unseen Portraits of System Of A Down:

• The Eye For Sound gallery in Eagle Rock is now showcasing ‘I Got Pictures On My Wall,’ a retrospective exhibit by acclaimed photographer Greg Watermann, featuring iconic and unseen portraits of System Of A Down, ongoing through October 26th. Celebrating over three decades of rock photography, Watermann’s collection highlights his unique access to the band and the energy of their live performances. Art enthusiasts can join him for immersive storytelling sessions during the week from 5:00pm - 9:00pm. Limited edition signed prints and an exclusive System Of A Down T-shirt are available for purchase, with pre-orders offering first access to RSVP for special events. For more details, visit the Eye For Sound website.

WEST HOLLYWOOD 📚️ Spooky Fun, Wellness Clinics + Creative Events:

• The West Hollywood Library is offering a range of events for all ages this week, from movie screenings to spooky-themed kids' activities and wellness clinics. Today, adults can catch The Contender, while kids dive into monster crafts on Tuesday. Early literacy gets a boost with toddler-friendly storytime, and teens can flex their trivia skills on Wednesday. Adults can also unwind with a coloring session on Friday or celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month with a special screening on Saturday. The library remains a hub for creativity and learning across generations.

ARTS DISTRICT 🎤 The Moth’s GrandSLAM tonight at 7:00pm:

• Looking for some serious story vibes tonight? The Moth's GrandSLAM is bringing ten of LA's best storytellers to battle it out for the storytelling crown. The theme? FIGHT OR FLIGHT. Expect tales of high-stakes decisions, those heart-pounding ‘stay or go’ moments, and stories that’ll have you questioning what you would do. Doors at 7:00pm, show at 8:00pm — get there early because it's general admission, and you don’t wanna miss these champs in action.

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COMMUNITY

UCLA 🧪 Researcher Wins Awards for Groundbreaking Innovations:

• Yuzhang Li, a chemical and biomolecular engineering professor at UCLA Samueli, has earned two prestigious early career awards, securing $1.76m in funding over the next three years. His electrified cryogenic electron microscopy technique, supported by a $1.4m NIH Director’s New Innovator Award, opens new avenues in understanding biological systems at a molecular level, potentially aiding neurostimulation treatments. Li’s $360,000 Army Research Office Young Investigator Award backs his pioneering work in ‘beyond-lithium’ batteries, positioning his research to contribute significantly to renewable energy and sustainability efforts.

DOWNEY 🚭️ Restricting Tobacco Retailers Near Schools + Parks:

• In a bid to protect minors, Downey’s Planning Commission approved a proposal to prevent new tobacco retailers from operating within 1,000 feet of schools, parks, and day care centers. The ordinance, aimed at businesses with over 50% of sales in tobacco products, still requires City Council approval. Existing retailers will be grandfathered in but could lose that status if they relocate or close for more than 180 days. This measure follows a City Council discussion from earlier this year and seeks to balance public health concerns with business operations in the community.

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DEVELOPMENT

SANTA MONICA 🏗️ Santa Monica’s Skyline Set to Evolve:

• The LA City Planning Commission just greenlit two new apartment projects, adding over sixty units to Glassell Park and Mid-City. In Glassell Park, KAS Verdugo, LLC will replace a church on Verdugo Road with a three-story building offering fourteen apartments and ground-floor commercial space. Meanwhile, P.D. Development, LLC plans to bring 52 new apartments to Venice Blvd in Mid-City, with a five-story structure featuring a two-level parking garage. Both projects utilize density bonus incentives, with a portion of units set aside for affordable housing.

SAWTELLE 🏡 Sawtelle Blvd Set for New Six-Story:

• A new mixed-use residential development is in the works for Sawtelle Boulevard, bringing contemporary housing and retail to the area. Developer Kayvan Naimi, known for similar projects in Sawtelle, has filed plans for a six-story building at 1770 Sawtelle Blvd. Designed by Plus Architects, the project will feature 32 apartments, including four affordable units, along with ground-floor commercial space and parking for 26 vehicles. The building will also offer amenities such as a gym and rooftop terrace. This follows a wave of similar developments in the neighborhood, spurred by recent state housing laws.

LONG BEACH 🏨 Fairmont Breakers Revives Long Beach Landmark:

• The Fairmont Breakers, a century-old Long Beach landmark, is set to open its doors once again following a multi-year restoration. Located on East Ocean Boulevard, the fourteen-story building, originally built in 1926, has been transformed into a luxury hotel featuring 185 guest rooms, 22 suites, and a two-story spa. Operated by Pacific6, the hotel blends its historic Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture with modern amenities like a live jazz club and rooftop pool deck. The inauguration is scheduled for November 7th following a $122.2m financing boost, including C-PACE funds.

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BUSINESS

DISNEY 🐭 Disney Delays CEO Succession, New Chairman Named:

• Walt Disney Co. announced plans to name a successor for CEO Bob Iger in early 2026, later than expected, as part of its leadership transition strategy. James P. Gorman, executive chairman of Morgan Stanley, has been appointed chairman of Disney's board, replacing Mark G. Parker in January. Gorman, leading the succession planning committee, emphasized the importance of allowing sufficient time for a smooth transition. The search for Iger’s replacement follows ongoing leadership reshuffling since Iger returned in 2022 to replace former CEO Bob Chapek.

HOLLYWOOD 💼 Dolby Theatre Under New Ownership, Plans for Expansion:

• Hollywood's iconic Dolby Theatre, home of the Oscars, has been acquired by a private syndicate under JEBS Hollywood Entertainment. Led by producer Elie Samaha, with former Sony president Jeff Sagansky and a UAE royal family member, the group plans to expand live performances, introducing more international and Latin acts to the venue. The sale includes two nearby parking lots and is estimated at $70m. Samaha, known for revitalizing Hollywood landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theatre, aims to apply similar success strategies to the 3,400-seat venue.

BEVERLY HILLS 🍔 FAT Brands Expands with New Global Openings:

• FAT Brands Inc. continues to grow its global footprint with a series of key announcements. The Beverly Hills-based restaurant chain owner is bringing five Fazoli’s locations to Utah, with the first set to open in Saratoga Springs next year. The company is also expanding its co-branded Great American Cookies and Marble Slab Creamery locations in Georgia, adding four new stores. FAT Brands also launched its first co-branded Fatburger and Buffalo’s Express in Puerto Rico, the first of ten planned for the island. These moves highlight the company's strategic growth across diverse markets.

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ENTERTAINMENT

MUSIC 🎸 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees:

• The 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was a night to remember, filled with iconic performances and heartfelt speeches. Cher, at 78, and Dua Lipa opened the night, leading a star-studded lineup that celebrated legends like the Dave Matthews Band, Kool & the Gang, Dionne Warwick, and Mary J. Blige. The mix of pop, rock, hip-hop, and soul was honored with tributes to Jimmy Buffett and A Tribe Called Quest, while surprise guest performances from Kelly Clarkson, Demi Lovato, and Lou Gramm added to the unforgettable energy.

PRIME ⚡️ A-List Voices in New Animated, ‘Secret Level’

• Prime Video’s Secret Level dives into original tales set within iconic video game worlds. The adult-animated anthology, from Love, Death & Robots creator Tim Miller, boasts a stellar voice cast including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Kevin Hart, and Keanu Reeves. Unveiled at New York Comic Con, the series promises two weekly episode drops, blending A-list talent with fan-favorite gaming lore. Created by Miller and executive-produced with Dave Wilson, Secret Level is poised to be an immersive fusion of animation and gaming culture. 💌 

FERRARI 🏎️ Introducing the Ferrari F80:

• Ferrari’s new F80 hypercar brings cutting-edge technology with a twin-turbo V-6 engine from its Le Mans-winning race car, paired with three electric motors. But while this hybrid setup boosts performance, the sound leaves something to be desired for enthusiasts. Showcased at Imola, the F80 lacks the signature high-revving shriek of Ferrari's V-12 predecessors, a letdown for purists. Despite the underwhelming exhaust note, the $4m hypercar sold all 799 units, proving that the future of Ferrari might be more about innovation than nostalgic roars.

PODCASTS 🎧️ Apple TV+ Releases Trailer for Extrasensory

• Apple TV+ dives into the uncanny with its upcoming Apple Original Podcast ‘Extrasensory,’ premiering next Monday, October 28th. Hosted by BAFTA and SAG Award winner Will Sharpe, the eight-episode series explores the chilling 1950s tale of John Pollock, a milkman who claimed his deceased daughters would be reborn—only for twin girls to be born with startling resemblances to them. As scientists take interest, the podcast peels back layers of reincarnation theories and psychological mysteries. Apple TV+ subscribers can access all episodes on launch, with two available to non-subscribers. 💌 

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SPORTS

DODGERS 🧢 Dodgers/Yankees: A Classic Rivalry Renewed

• The stage is set for a historic World Series showdown between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Yankees, marking their first meeting since 1981. The Dodgers secured the National League pennant with a victory over the New York Mets, while the Yankees clinched the American League pennant by defeating the Cleveland Guardians. As these iconic teams prepare for Game 1 this Friday, the Dodgers hold home-field advantage, having posted a better regular season record (98-64) than the Yankees (94-68). Expect a clash of titans as Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge headline this anticipated series.

CHARGERS ⚡️ Chargers Banking on the Ground Game:

• As the Los Angeles Chargers quietly move to 3-2, their success has been largely thanks to JK Dobbins and the ground game. With Justin Herbert expected to stay conservative in the air, the Chargers head to Arizona to face Kyler Murray and a Cardinals team desperate for a win. Rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. is set to play, but his limited effectiveness and recent concussion suggest low expectations for tonight. The focus remains on Dobbins' rushing attack, as the Cardinals' defense presents a tough challenge for both teams.

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CU WEDNESDAY, LA!

🤙 Have a wonderful start to the week, Los Angeles!

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