Archive for the ‘Local Reviews’ Category
My Favorites: Best Restaurants on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica — Part 1
by John Hathorn on November 1, 2011Montana Avenue in Santa Monica is one of L.A.’s most upscale shopping districts. But, did you know that it also offers some of the best…Read more »
Cool Down in Santa Monica: DiDio’s Italian Ice on Montana Avenue
by John Hathorn on July 27, 2011For the past 15 years, DiDio’s Italian has been the perfect place to stop by for a cool treat on a hot day. With 16 different flavors of Italian ice, gelato and a wide assortment of candy, they have a little bit of something for everyone with a sweet tooth.
Duck Blind Liquor in Santa Monica: Fine Variety of Domestic and Imported Wines on Montana Avenue
by John Hathorn on July 8, 2011Duck Blind Liquor has been a staple on Montana Avenue for over 35 years. The current owner has been running the store for over 1 ½ years.
Jewelry for All Prices and Occasions: Tala Jewelers on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica
by John Hathorn on June 22, 2011Located at 1302 Montana Avenue, Tala Jewelry is owned by designer Arto Atmajian. His creations are available only at his store and he specializes in interpretations of classic designs.
Ranging from classic to contemporary he works with everything from white, yellow and black diamonds as well as rubies emeralds, topaz and sapphires.
Babalu on Montana Avenue: Caribbean Asian Fusion Cuisine in Santa Monica
by Francis Vergel de Dios on June 9, 2011My family and I were strolling up Montana Ave. from 9th St. when we saw a bright and colorful bamboo shack. The name on top of the front door “Babalu” intrigued us since the word “Babalu” in our native language translated to “long chin.” The kind of word that you wouldn’t want anywhere in your College year book profile.
The Insider’s Scoop to the Twilight Dance Series at the Santa Monica Pier
by Shann Silver on June 2, 2011Now that summer is here, it’s time to bring out the bathing suits & sunscreen and enjoy the sunshine. One of my favorites events in Santa Monica during the summer is the Twilight Dance Series @ the Pier.
Limonaia on Montana Avenue: Unique Gifts and Handcrafted Items from Around the World
by John Hathorn on May 31, 2011Since our move three blocks west on Montana Avenue we have been making our rounds to meet the neighboring businesses. Montana has truly become a street for one stop shopping!
Limonaia is owned by Jessica Goldfarb who relocated from San Francisco to Los Angeles in 2010 to share her love of handcrafted items from around the world. The name of the shop comes from Jessica’s visits to her family home in Italy. Located there is an area called a Limonaia, it is a warm and sunny room where lemon trees are stored during the winter.
The Hangover II: The Wolfpack is Back in Movie Theaters This Week
by John Hathorn on May 24, 2011The sequel to the hugely popular movie The Hangover is opening this week. This is one of those movies that I will make a point of trying to see opening week.
The Hangover I was solid comedic insanity with not one ounce of sentimentality; I found it to be very original and imaginative. I really hope the sequel lives up to its predecessor, but won’t be surprised if it does not. A friend of mine put it this way: “We had no expectations and had no idea what the 1st Hangover would be like. Part 2 of course has to live up to, and hopefully exceed, part 1 and that will be tough.”
Movie Review: Bridesmaids Delivers Laughs to Men and Women Thanks to Kristin Wiig
by John Hathorn on May 19, 2011Ok, so I am writing this on a dare from my wife. She says I would be too embarrassed to admit that I liked Bridesmaids. To be perfectly honest: she didn’t have to twist my arm too hard to see it last Saturday. The reason being, I think Kristen Wiig is super talented based just on what I see of her on Saturday Night Live each week.
Eco-Friendly Skin Care Products: Palmetto Serves Montana Ave Area for Years
by John Hathorn on May 6, 2011Palmetto has been serving the Montana Avenue neighborhood in skin and body care for over 25 years.
Carrying natural and organic skin care, bath, aromatherapy, candles, make-up, accessories, perfume and cards, Palmetto is perfect for those that are looking for natural products as well as unique gifts. Free gift wrapping and basket arrangements are also available.



