FEBRUARY 11TH, 2025

TUESDAY’S VIBES

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SNOW MOON +

WHITE LOTUS RETURNS

SUNDAY

HI CUITE! 👋 We Growin,’ We Growin’

• Hey CuratedLA Fam! We are kicking off 2025 strong, and it’s all thanks to you - the emails, the love, the ‘how can I help?’ If you’ve got events or content to share, hit the form and get your name in the mix - because starting today, submissions + vibes come with a shoutout, building our digitally bunkered-in community. 💌 

• Speaking of spotlights, keep an eye on Beast Games this Thursday - LA Curator Courtney Ferris, aka Player 424, might just walk away with $10m. I sat down with her recently, and our convo drops Friday.

• And remember, the CuratedLA Catfish call/txt line is open: 747-200-5740. Reply to this email, or hit me up directly as well if needed: [email protected]. See you Friday! Wyatt

ON THIS DAY ⏪️ Los Angeles History

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HOV LANES

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EATS

HEADLINES

TACO BELL 🌮 Putting Fans First in Big Game Ad 💌 

• Taco Bell’s latest Big Game commercial flips the script, putting nearly 400 real fans in the spotlight instead of celebrities. Captured through the brand’s Live Más Drive-Thru Cams, the 30-second ad features everyday moments—baby announcements, vow renewals, and late-night cravings—elevating the true essence of Taco Bell fandom. While longtime brand enthusiasts Doja Cat and LeBron James make playful cameo appearances, the real MVPs are the passionate fans who turned a routine drive-thru visit into a national moment. Directed by Grammy-winner Dave Meyers, the spot marks Taco Bell’s fan-first approach, proving that the best stories don’t need a script—they’re lived.

  • 💌 Submitted by: Curators at Edelman.

BEVERLY HILLS ❤️‍🩹 Dine for a Cause:

• Beverly Hills' top hotel restaurants are turning Valentine’s week into a time of giving. Indulge in luxury dining at The Beverly Hills Hotel, The Peninsula, Waldorf Astoria, and more, where a portion of proceeds will support wildfire relief efforts benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Malibu and Pasadena, along with the California Community Foundation Wildfire Recovery Fund. Fundraisers for Boys & Girls Club of Malibu and Pasadena runs now until Saturday.

SANTA MONICA 🎡 Outdoor Dining Fees Waived to Support Local:

• To assist businesses affected by the recent Palisades Fire, Santa Monica has waived its outdoor dining license fees for February, covering sidewalk dining, parklets, and pier deck extensions. Mayor Lana Negrete emphasized the city's commitment to recovery, urging residents to support local businesses. Since its launch during the pandemic, the city’s outdoor dining program now includes 101 businesses, offering vital relief. Economic Development Manager Jennifer Taylor highlighted the importance of this support in helping restaurants recover from the impacts of the wildfires. The city’s emergency proclamation remains in effect, extending ongoing recovery efforts.

MCDONALD’S 🍟 Big Bets on Chicken Amid Setbacks

• McDonald's is doubling down on chicken, expanding its McCrispy, Snack Wraps, chicken strips, and the Chicken Big Mac to capture more market share by 2026. The McCrispy is already in 70 markets, aiming for nearly all markets this year, while the Chicken Big Mac rolls out further. Promotions like the $5 meal deal, free fries, and the Shamrock Shake are driving traffic, but fourth-quarter earnings took a hit due to reduced consumer spending and an E. coli outbreak linked to slivered onions.

OPENINGS

NORTHRIDGE 🌮 Tacos 1986, Tijuana-style Tacos:

• Tacos 1986 is bringing its signature Tijuana-style tacos to Northridge, taking over the former Cupid’s Hot Dogs on Lindley Ave. Expected to open by late March or early April, this marks the brand’s eighth location, continuing its rapid expansion from a humble food cart in 2018. Led by Victor Manuel Delgado III and Joey Alvarez, the restaurant is known for its simple yet flavorful menu of tacos, quesadillas, and mulitas, all served with top-tier hospitality. The new spot will also feature breakfast options and catering services, ensuring Northridge gets a full taste of what makes Tacos 1986 a local favorite.

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

SANTA MONICA 🍔 Palms n’ Patties, Minimalist Burger Spot:

• Santa Monica welcomes Palms n' Patties, a minimalist burger spot on Wilshire Boulevard, offering a focused menu of organic, grass-fed beef burgers and crispy fries cooked in beef tallow. Open daily from 10:00am to 10:00pm, this neighborhood joint emphasizes quality ingredients and a commitment to cooking without seed oils. Early patrons praise the juicy, flavorful burgers and the nostalgic taste of the fries, reminiscent of classic fast-food favorites. For those seeking a straightforward yet high-quality burger experience, Palms n' Patties is a must-try addition to Santa Monica's dining scene.

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

KOREATOWN 🇰🇷 Boiler, Korean-Dishes:

• Koreatown's culinary scene welcomes its latest addition, Boiler, located on South Western Avenue. This new eatery specializes in traditional Korean dishes, featuring a 72-hour simmered seolleongtang—a rich beef bone soup known for its restorative qualities. Meat enthusiasweewe3sts can indulge in premium beef steaks and spicy grilled pork ribs, each marinated and cooked to perfection. For those seeking a fiery kick, the spicy beef soup offers tender beef infused with authentic Korean spices. Experience the true taste of Korea at Boiler, now open in the heart of Los Angeles.

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

GLENDALE 🍍 Bangkok Bay, Thai Cuisine:

• Glendale's culinary scene welcomes Bangkok Bay, a new virtual kitchen on San Fernando Road, offering authentic Thai cuisine exclusively for pickup and delivery. Open daily from 11:30am to 3:00am, Bangkok Bay caters to late-night cravings with a diverse menu featuring dishes like Cashew Nut Chicken, Tom Yum Soup, and Mango Sticky Rice. Early patrons praise the generous portions and authentic flavors, with one reviewer noting, ‘Good flavor, authentic, generous portions, this place satisfied my Thai cravings.’

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

SAN FERNANDO 🧆 The Grill Stories, Mediterranean:

• San Fernando's culinary scene welcomes The Grill Stories, a new Mediterranean eatery on Maclay Ave, Suite A. Open daily from 11:00am, with extended hours until 10:00pm on Fridays and Saturdays, this restaurant offers a menu inspired by the diverse grilling traditions of the Mediterranean. Diners can expect dishes that blend authentic recipes with modern twists, all crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you're stopping by for a casual lunch or a lively dinner with friends, The Grill Stories provides a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates the joy of good food and great company.

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

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EVENTS

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FIVE FUTURES

GUIDES

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ACTIVITIES

VARIOUS LOCATIONS 🍕 Trivia Nights, Starting Tonight:

• Pizzana is bringing the heat with two themed trivia nights this week. Tonight, Marina del Rey hosts ‘90s Trivia Night, complete with cosmos, pizza, and TRL anthems, while raising funds for the California Fire Foundation. Then, on Thursday, the Silver Lake location gets rom-com ready for Galentine’s Trivia Night, hosted by Jeopardy! champ Brendan Sargent, featuring heart-shaped pizzas and a stellar soundtrack. Grab your crew, brush up on your '90s hits and iconic movie quotes, and make your reservations on Resy.

LINCOLN HEIGHTS 🍺 Sketch Party, Tonight 💸 🙈:

• Join Sketch Party for a laid-back drawing and drinking session at Benny Boy Brewing tonight from 7:00pm to 11:00pm. Grab sketch supplies, sip on craft beers and ciders, and get creative, whether you’re a seasoned artist or just doodling for fun. Jay’s Tacos will be there to keep you fueled. This free, 21+ event is the perfect way to unwind and mingle while enjoying a unique night out.

MACARTHUR PARK 🎤 Stupid Cupid, Tomorrow:

• Celebrate love (or lack thereof) at Stupid Cupid - A Valentine's Day Cabaret tomorrow at Dynasty Typewriter. Featuring Chrissa Sparkles, Sarah Hester Ross, and special guests, this comedy show is perfect for the single, the in-love-with-themselves, and everyone in between. Expect dating horror stories, women empowerment, sex toys, and plenty of laughs. Whether you're out with your girlfriends or your partner, it’s a night of hilarious musical comedy that’s anything but romantic. Doors open at 6:30pm for this 18+ event. General admission tickets are $20 in advance, $25 day-of.

GRIFFITH PARK ✏️ After Hours Stenciling on Thursday:

• The Autry’s after-hours cultural series continues this Thursday with multimedia street artist Siyowin, who will share insights into her artistic practice and lead a stencil art workshop. Guests will have the chance to create their own pieces inspired by personal passions and experiences. Admission is $18, and the event runs from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.

WESTCHESTER 👩‍🎨 Paint Your Date, Thursday from 7:00pm - 9:00pm:

• The Casual Creative and TOMAT bring a playful twist to date night with Paint Your Date, a lighthearted portrait-painting event in Playa del Rey. On Thursday, February 13th from 7:00pm - 9:00pm, guests will sit across from their partner, best friend, or date to create fun, imperfect, and personality-filled paintings—no experience needed. With wine flowing and music setting the vibe, the night promises creativity and laughs, ending with a big portrait reveal. A portion of proceeds supports LA fire relief. Tickets include all art materials and a drink of choice.

  • 💌 Submitted by a Curator: Ana of The Casual Creative.

HOLLYWOOD 🎻 Steve Tyrell, Valentine’s Day + Saturday Night 💌 

• Grammy Award winner and two-time Emmy nominee Steve Tyrell returns to Catalina Jazz Club for a special two-night engagement on Friday and Saturday, marking over thirty years of performances at the iconic venue. Known for his rich storytelling and distinctive voice, Tyrell will perform a mix of holiday classics, favorites from the Great American Songbook, and songs from his latest album Shades of Ray: The Songs of Ray Charles. Following his recovery from a stroke in 2022, this Valentine’s Day celebration promises an unforgettable evening of music, dining, and memories. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a jazz legend live. 💌 

  • Submitted by PR Curators at Sharp & Associates PR.

CULVER CITY ❤️ Valentine’s Night Market, Friday 💸 🎈 

• The Ivy Station Night Market is celebrating Valentine's Day with a special edition of the monthly event. From 5:00pm to 10:00pm., explore over 25 local vendors offering handmade and artisan goods, along with food trucks, craft beer, games, and live music. Admission is free, making it a perfect evening out for all ages.

WEST HOLLYWOOD 🪩 ‘Rare,’ Selena Gomez Pop-Up, Friday - Sunday:

• Selena Gomez is celebrating the fifth anniversary of Rare with a three-day pop-up at Complex LA this Friday - Sunday, 11:00am to 7:00pm. Originally delayed due to wildfires, the event will feature exclusive merch, music, and a limited-edition Rare Beauty blush. While RSVPs are encouraged, entry isn't guaranteed, so early arrival is advised. All proceeds, after fees and taxes, will support Direct Relief’s wildfire recovery efforts. Released in 2020, Rare debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, inspiring Gomez’s beauty brand, which has since become a fan favorite.

WESTWOOD ❤️‍🩹 Palisades Symphony’s Fire Relief Concert, Sunday:

• The Palisades Symphony Orchestra hosts a Fire Recovery Benefit Concert on Sunday at 7:30pm at Westwood United Methodist Church, aiding musicians and community members affected by recent wildfires. With their usual venue under repair, the orchestra performs Mykola Lysenko’s Overture to Taras Bulba, Edvard Grieg’s Piano Concerto in A Minor featuring Alexander Wasserman, and César Franck’s Symphony in D Minor. Wasserman donates his performance, and Kawai provides a grand piano. Admission is free, but donations will support those impacted. Contributions can be made via QR code or online. Free parking available at 10497 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles.

GLENDALE 🛍️ Wallflower Market LA Pop-Up, next Saturday - 2pm - 8pm:

• The Artsakh Creative Retail Accelerator Program is hosting Wallflower on Artsakh next Saturday the 22nd, from 2:00pm to 8:00pm at Artsakh Paseo. Curated by Kat Hanegraaf, founder of Wallflower Market LA, the event brings together local makers offering piercings, tarot readings, mini photo shoots, live portraits, ceramics, candles, baked goods, and jewelry. Ten percent of sales will support the Dog Coalition, a nonprofit matching shelter dogs with their ideal humans. Now in its fifth phase, the Artsakh Creative Retail Program continues to help small businesses transition into brick-and-mortar spaces with six months of free rent in city-owned units.

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COMMUNITY

ANAHEIM ⚾️ Angels Stay in Anaheim Through 2032

• The Los Angeles Angels have extended their lease at Angel Stadium, ensuring the team remains in Anaheim through at least 2032. Originally set to expire in 2029, the extension is the first of three optional renewals under the current agreement. The ballpark, the fourth-oldest in MLB, was nearly sold to the team in 2019, but the deal collapsed amid an FBI investigation into former Anaheim mayor Harry Sidhu. With no major renovations in nearly thirty years, the future of the stadium remains uncertain, but for now, the Angels are staying put.

FORECAST ☔️ SoCal Braces for a Rainy Valentine’s Week:

• Keep the rainboots handy—another storm is set to drench Southern California, potentially bringing more rain than last week. The system arrives Wednesday, with the heaviest rainfall expected Thursday night into Friday morning. While no warnings are in place yet, meteorologists warn of possible mud and debris flows. The prolonged showers could help ease the region’s rainfall deficit, and for a winter twist, mountain peaks above 5,000 feet may see snow. Valentine’s Day may be a washout, but the much-needed rain could be a gift for the drought-prone region.

ABC7 📰 Ellen Leyva Bids Farewell After 29 Years:

• After nearly three decades at ABC7, Ellen Leyva is retiring, marking the end of an era in Los Angeles broadcasting. Since joining in 1995, Leyva has been a trusted presence on Eyewitness News, co-anchoring alongside David Ono and covering everything from health reporting to red carpet events. Raised in a bilingual household in Tucson, her connection to LA’s Hispanic communities has been a defining strength in her journalism. Honored by the National Hispanic Media Coalition and inducted into ASU’s Cronkite Hall of Fame, she now looks ahead to her next chapter while continuing to support nonprofit causes. She’ll remain on-air for a few more months, ensuring a heartfelt farewell to colleagues and viewers alike.

WAYMO 🚕 Waymo Expansion Steers Riders Toward Public Transit:

• Waymo is taking an unexpected route in LA, launching a pilot transit credit program that nudges riders toward public transportation en route to LAX. Now through April 1st, passengers who take a Waymo to one of eight eligible transit stations will receive a $3 credit on future rides, a move reinforcing the company’s push for a multimodal transit system.

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DEVELOPMENT

PASADENA 🌹 Green Street Makeover Moves Forward:

• Jade Enterprises is moving ahead with a mixed-use development on Green Street, with new renderings presented to the Pasadena Design Commission. The project, designed by MVE + Partners, features 263 apartments, office space, and a subterranean parking garage, leveraging density bonus incentives to include 41 affordable units. A contemporary design with New Formalism elements integrates courtyards, rooftop decks, and a public-accessible pocket park with seating and exercise areas. With a staff report recommending approval, Jade Enterprises continues expanding beyond Downtown into Pasadena, Hollywood, and Beverly Grove.

SANTA MONICA 🎡 A New High-Rise for Downtown Santa Monica:

• Madison Realty Capital has unveiled plans for an eighteen-story residential high-rise at 1437 6th Street in Downtown Santa Monica. Designed by Ottinger Architects, the project features 173 units—including 26 deed-restricted affordable homes—spread across a sleek, dual-formed tower with contrasting glass and white plaster elements. Taking advantage of state density bonuses, the development aims to blend contemporary design with increased housing supply. Formerly controlled by NMS Properties, the site is part of Madison's broader push for high-rise developments in the area, including projects at 601 Colorado and 1435 5th Street.

SHERMAN OAKS 🏡 Tuscan-Inspired Living at Via Avanti:

• Rising southeast of the I-405/US-101 interchange, Via Avanti is bringing 325 new apartments and 40,000 square feet of retail to Sherman Oaks. Developed by IMT Residential, the six-story Tuscan-style complex at 4815-4827 N. Sepulveda Blvd. will feature a landscaped plaza, private and public open spaces, and upscale amenities like a pool, fitness center, dog park, and community garden. Originally envisioned as a larger project, the development has been in the works for twenty years. IMT is also behind a nearby 249-unit complex that will house a new Trader Joe’s.

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BUSINESS

RIVIAN 🔌 Rivian Expands Electric Van Sales Beyond Amazon:

• Irvine-based Rivian is opening its electric van sales to all commercial fleets after ending its exclusive partnership with Amazon. The automaker, known for its electric trucks and SUVs, has already delivered 20,000 vans to Amazon and plans to sell 80,000 more by 2030. With two models priced at $79,900 and $83,900, Rivian aims to boost profitability as it rebounds from supply chain setbacks. Recent fleet trials, including a partnership with AT&T, have paved the way for mass-market availability, positioning Rivian as a growing force in commercial EVs across SoCal and beyond.

BYD 🏎️ BYD’s Self-Driving Leap Puts Pressure on Tesla:

• BYD shares hit a record high in Hong Kong, jumping 4% as the company pushes into self-driving technology across 21 vehicle models. With AI integration from DeepSeek, Goldman Sachs sees BYD pulling ahead of most OEMs. The stock is up 15% this week and 27% YTD, driven by the debut of new smart-driving models—some priced below $10k with standard ‘God’s Eye’ autopilot. While BYD doesn’t sell cars in the U.S., its rapid innovation challenges Tesla globally. Notably, BYD has a production plant in Palmdale.

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ENTERTAINMENT

LIVE FROM NEW YORK 🎤 SNL’s 50th Anniversary Bash:

• Saturday Night Live marks its 50th season with a star-studded celebration this Sunday at 5:00pm on NBC and Peacock. The three-hour special brings together past and present cast members like Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, Will Ferrell, and Kristen Wiig, alongside A-listers such as Paul McCartney, Pedro Pascal, and Scarlett Johansson. Adding to the festivities, Jimmy Fallon hosts a Valentine’s Day concert at Radio City Music Hall featuring Arcade Fire, Lady Gaga, The B-52s, and more, streaming on Peacock. Expect laughs, music, and enough nostalgia to make even Stefon speechless.

BOX OFFICE 🍿 Mickey 17 Eyes a Modest Box Office Start:

• Following multiple delays, Bong Joon-ho’s Mickey 17 finally lands in theaters on March 7th, with projections placing its domestic opening between $15m – $20m. Starring Robert Pattinson as a cloned worker in a dystopian sci-fi world, the film marks Bong’s first major studio release under Warner Bros., which is giving it a wider debut than any of his past projects. While its offbeat nature may limit mainstream appeal, a lack of competition post-Captain America: Brave New World could help boost its legs. Still, without a built-in fanbase, Mickey 17 faces an uphill battle compared to Warner’s past March hits.

FRAN BILL 💯 Lifetime Achievement at 3rd Annual Children & Family Emmys 💌 

• Emmy Award-winning performer Fran Brill will be celebrated with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 3rd Annual Children’s & Family Emmy Awards on March 15th in LA. A pioneering Muppeteer, Brill was one of the first female performers hired by Jim Henson, with lasting contributions to Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, and Saturday Night Live. Alongside Brill, the ceremony will honor 2025 Gold and Silver Circle inductees, including Charlie Adler, Hedda B. Sharapan, and Halle Stanford. Brill’s iconic career spans acting, voice work, and puppetry, leaving an indelible mark on children's entertainment ℹ️ 💌 

  • 💌 Submitted by PR Curators at SMITHHOUSE Strategy.

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SPORTS

DONČIĆ’S DONATION ❤️‍🩹 Luka Donates $500k to Wildfire Recovery Efforts:

• Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Dončić is stepping up to help with the aftermath of the recent Los Angeles wildfires, donating $500,000 through his foundation. Expressing his heartbreak over the destruction, Dončić shared his concern for the children who lost homes, schools, and play areas. The wildfires, which claimed at least 29 lives, resulted in economic losses estimated between $250bn and $275bn. Even as recovery efforts begin, the risk of landslides and debris flows remains, with heavy rain looming. This comes on the heels of Lakers head coach JJ Redick’s own personal loss, as the Pacific Palisades home he and his family rented was destroyed.

GENESIS ⛳️ SoCal Golf Scene Shifts to Torrey Pines for 2025 Invitational:

• The 2025 Genesis Invitational moves from Riviera to Torrey Pines due to Los Angeles wildfires, drawing top-tier talent like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Southern California native Collin Morikawa. Defending champion Hideki Matsuyama looks to hold his title, while Rickie Fowler, a Murrieta product, and Max Homa, a Valencia native, aim to make a local impact. Scheffler leads the odds at +350, but SportsLine’s predictive model suggests he won’t top the leaderboard. Instead, longshot Shane Lowry (+4000) emerges as a potential surprise contender.

CLIPPERS 🏀 Clippers Add Ben Simmons on Buyout Market:

• After a busy NBA trade deadline, the LA Clippers have secured veteran forward Ben Simmons for the remainder of the season. Following his buyout agreement with the Brooklyn Nets, Simmons, a three-time NBA All-Star and 2017-18 Rookie of the Year, joins the Clippers to provide depth at power forward and small-ball center. Known for his defensive prowess and playmaking ability, Simmons will focus on defense, rebounding, and fast breaks, supporting stars like Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. Despite ongoing concerns about his durability and shooting hesitancy, the Clippers are counting on Simmons to add valuable versatility.

THE OPEN 🏆️ LIV Golf Players Receive Pathway to 2025 Open Championship:

• The R&A has announced a new qualifying pathway for LIV Golf players into the 2025 Open Championship at Royal Portrush. Starting this year, the leading LIV player, not already exempt, in the top five of the LIV Golf standings after the LIV Golf Dallas event (June 27th-29th) will earn a spot in the field. Following this announcement, the USGA revealed a similar path for LIV players to qualify for the U.S. Open, though the PGA of America and Augusta National have yet to formalize such pathways.

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SEE YOU FRIDAY, LA!

🤙 Continue this week strong, Los Angeles,
and I will see everyone in your inbox on Friday!

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