Foot in the Face

Unlike this horrible piece of work, I am hoping that the Street Fighter Legend of Chun Li movie will be good. At first, I was very skeptical about Kristin Kreauk as Chun Li. I mean, all she's really know for is Lana Lang on Smallville and she doesnt seem to do that role justice. However, after looking at the trailer, I have a feeling she might be able to pull off. HADOKEN!

Happy Christmas

Happy Christmas from Stuck in the Valley!

Youre So Vain

I'm a museum junkie. Leave me in a museum and you wont see me for the next couple of hours. I figured since everyone is on break, there is a lot of spare time. Take a trip to the museum! At LACMA, there is the Vanity Fair Portraits Exhibition. The exhibition will be at LACMA till March 1, 2009 and depending on the time, admission can be free. As of now, theres plenty of time to see it, but dont get too lazy. Before you know it, exhibits come and go!

KNOW MORE:
LACMA

He's Back

The anticipation is over. The new X-Men Origins: Wolverine trailer is out! The hype for this movie is insane. I am sure that this movie will jump start the X-Men franchise after its long absence. Enjoy!

Round Two

Ready for some shopping? American Apparel is having another factory sale this Sunday, December 14th. This past summer, I went to the Flea Market Sale and it was hell. Waiting in that 100 degree weather was exhausting, I almost wanted to leave. Nevertheless, when American Apparel has a sale, they go big. Some of their expensive items are usually discounted at a more than reasonable price. In fact, if you are able to walk away from their sale with $100 dollars of merchandise than its well worth it. Dont miss out, go to this sale!

Know more:
Angelenic
American Apparel

New Spaces

Photo provided by: Flickr

Urban Outfitters is launching their new concept store Space 15 Twenty Saturday, December 20th. Admission is free.


KNOW MORE:

Space 15 Twenty
L.A. Times Article

Leave it Alone

I'm really skeptical about this adaptation. I understand that Hollywood is running out of original ideas, but did they really need to touch Dragonball? Growing up, Dragonball was my favorite cartoon. Looking at the trailer, I don't feel the same enthusiasm. If anything they should have left it alone.

The Second Coming

Dear Stuck in the Valley,

I am terribly sorry that I have neglected you. I feel like a total asshole. I am back now and I promise not to hurt you again. I will make sure to post pictures, videos, and blurbs frequently.

Yours Truly,

Patrick

I Heart Films

The L.A. Film Festival starts on June 19th through the 29th. Like the Newport Beach Film Festival, the films range from documentaries to short films. This time, however, there appears to be more commerical movies. For instance, Wanted, starring Angelina Jolie and James McAvoy is premiering on the first night. Tickets this time around are going to be a lot more competitive ad expensive, mostly because this is Los Angeles we're talking about. The festival will take place in Westwood, CA.

Post Script
Look up movies and parking on their site.

Show Me How You Do That Trick

I was reading the Arts & Music section of the L.A. Times like I usually do every weekend, and I noticed that the Cure is playing this weekend. Tickets can be purchased from their website or ticketmaster, mind you though theyre kind of pricey and they will probably sell out fast. They will be playing at the Hollywood Bowl on Saturday and the Shrine Auditorium on Sunday.

Post Script
You will most likely see me at one of this concerts.

Blockbuster Expectations

So far all the movies I've seen have lived up to the summer hype. If anything, you need to watch whatever is out in the theaters while you still can. Once they come out on DVD you'll regret not seeing them in the theaters. The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, Iron Man, Indiana Jones: Kingdom of the Crystal Skulls were all really good movies.

Post Script
I cant wait until Batman: Dark Knight comes out

So Close

Right now things have been dead. Once school is out I promise you'll read more about whats going on. With summer comes more adventures, expect to see more posts!

I Shop Therefore I Am

The Gap is currently releasing a limited edition t-shirt line entitled the "Whitney Artist T's". The line is a collaboration between the Gap and various artists such as Barbara Kruger and Jeff Koons. The t's range from v-necks to crew necks, with various graphics from artist. Although there are multiple designs, it appears the demand is high. Just now I checked Gap.com and most of the sizes are selling out. If anything buy them while your size is still around.

Post Script
I love Barbara Kruger, but would she really approve?

Not Just Rags

I'm a believer in thrift shops. Also, a believer in cheap used cheap used clothes. I really hate it when thrift shops over price some of their clothing. I mean come on, the clothes have already been worn for who knows how long and by how many people?!

Jet rag is a vintage store in the heart of Los Angeles. The two story building has probably the biggest selection of used clothing Ive ever seen. Although its great to go during the week, I advise you to visit on a Sunday. On Sundays, Jet rag brings out bundles of clothes and lays them out in the parking lot, all for the price of one dollar a piece. Now you must be wondering, whats wrong with these clothes? The answer is, nothing. The trouble with thrift stores is knowing when to make space for more clothes. After my first time, I walked away with three blazers, for ... $3.00.


Address: Jet rag. 825 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038-3340

Departure: 20 minutes & approx 15 miles

Post Script: Go early to get ahead start on the competition.

Behind the Films

Last weekend was the start of the Newport Beach Film Festival. Sure Newport sounds pretty far away, but if you havent had a taste of a film festival, then this is your best bet. The films premiering range from documentaries to short comedies. If anything, youre bound to find something that will interest you. Not only do the films vary, but the prices as well. The one I saw on sunday was free. The event is all about finding the film that suits you.

Post Script: Make sure to have a full tank of gas before you make the trip.

Hole in the Wall

When it comes to fast food, I like the hole in the wall type of places. Something about the food is so gritty and good. Anyways, Daglas Burgers is this small fast food stand in the middle of the valley. Do not let the exterior fool you. Sure it may look sketchy but its safe, trust me. Going to Daglas is an experience that should not be taken lightly. Make sure you order a charbroiled burger.

Address: Daglas Burgers. 20036 Vanowen St, Canoga Park, CA 91306

Departure: 20 minutes & approx 10 miles

Post Script: Make sure to order a bag of fries, theyre endless!

Americana Twist

Its been a while since Ive blogged. I apoligize. Anyways, last week I went to Ketchup for my friend Jeffrey's birthday. What I love most about ketchup is the interior. Upon entering, I was immersed into an environment flooded by the color red. If anything, I felt like I was inside a ketchup bottle. From the lights to the wall art, red is the desired color. Other than that, the contrast between the white walls and seating provide a down low atmosphere.

Aside from the interior's aesthetic, the food was pretty good. When ordering, you really have to choose wisely. I ordered a sloppy joe type of garmet burger, and that turned out really good. Accompanied by the sloppy joe was a dish of fries. The fries were perhaps the best part of the meal. Coated with either parmesian cheese, or cajun spice, or maybe cooked homestyle the fries are served with a tray of five different type of ketchups. All of which were amazing. If anything, one could go crazy trying to decide which ketchup is the best.

Address: Ketchup 8590 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood CA 90069

Departure: 30 minutes & 30 miles

Post Script: Its a great date place

Why Use a SPOON?!

Diddy Riese is the home to $1 ice cream sandwiches. Enough said.

Address: Diddy Riese, 926 Broxton Ave Los Angeles, CA 90024-2802

Departure: 30 minutes and approx 15 miles.

Post Script: Go crazy with the combinations.

I Feel Infinite

So its not the best of pictures, but oh well. During spring break my friends and I went to the Griffith Observatory. I was pretty stoked to go for two reasons. One, Griffith Observatory was where Rebel Without a Cause was filmed. Two, I love to look up at the stars, especially if its accompanied by a great view.

The observatory is definitely best in the evening. There, literally the entire area is open to the public, making it a great place to explore. It is a must to roam the outside of the observatory, although some of the exhibits inside are interesting, nothing can beat all the external features.

Address: Directions can be found here.

Departure: 45 minutes and approx. 20 miles.

Post Script: Come with friends or a date.

Oh Kaba

Provided by MTV

If you dont watch America's Best Dance Crew, then there's something is wrong with you. Ive been following the show for a while now, and I have to say, Im addicted to Kaba Modern. Its even gotten to the point where I know how to do the hand choreography. Anyways, Kaba Modern will be making an appearance in Pasadena for the First Annual Dance Awards. Tickets are $15 dollar presale and $20 at the door.

Address: John Muir High School. 1905 Lincoln Ave. Pasadena, CA 91103

Departure: 50 minutes and 50 miles

Post Script: Fysh n' Chicks are performing.

So Long Sweet Summer

Provided by Aroundtheworld

Point Dune is my favorite beach in Malibu. Last summer, I spent countless days with my friends at this beach. Just recently, I went during my spring break. I planned so that I left the valley around 4, and waited for the sun to set around 6:30 or 7:00. Watching the sun slowly sink into the horizon is sight that everyone should experience, especially if youre with someone you love.

Address: Take CPH until you hit Malibu Canyon Road. Make a right. Continue on that for a good 30 minutes. Afterwards you'll see signs directing you to make a left.

Departure: 50 miles and 45 minutes

Post Script: Bring food, camera, and blanket.

T.P.C.

Provided by Myspace

Its Tokyo Police Club time! TPC is one of the few bands that people still dont know of, but as of now Im realizing that Im giving them exposure. Whatever, I guess its a double edged sword. So TPC will be playing at the Troubadoor next Thursday, March 27 at 7:30. Tickets are 15 dollars onlone and 20 at the door. This concert is their second night playing here, only after having a sold out show for the night before.

Address: The Troubador 9081 SANTA MONICA BLVD.

Departure: 30 minutes and 20 miles

Post Script: Push forward at concerts!

Gluttonous Cupcakes

Ahh the infamous Sprinkles. We would like to think that this place is overrated, but in reality it really isnt. Instead, it is perhaps the best cupcake bakery in all of Southern California. Yea, I've been to some of the bootleggers out there, and they cannot even compete.

During this visit to Sprinkles I went with my friends Hazel and Lily. Upon arrival, we noticed that the line was really long. So long that it almost reached the end of the block. We were torn between waiting in line, or hitting up Crumbs, which is only a few minutes down Santa Monica Blvd. However, since we had a lot of catching up to do, we decided to wait. In all honesty, the wait was worth it.

Once inside, its like you step into heaven. The people working there are so friendly and nice, that theyre like angels waiting to take your order. Before even talking to the workers, all you can think about is the cupcakes that are literally right infront of you. If anything, I would want to slip my hand behind the glass screen that separates the customers from the cupcakes.

After waiting for so long, I decided to go all out and buy 6 cupcakes. (6 cupcakes=19.50) I ordered a coconut, a black and white, two red velvets, and two irish chocolate. The irish chocolate is a seasonal flavor for St. Patrick's Day. The other flavors and their corresponding days can be found here.

Address: Sprinkles 9635 Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills CA

Departure: 40 minutes and 20 miles

Post Script: Make sure if youre waiting in line for a long period of time that youre with a group of friends who know how to make the best out of the situation. Damn, I sure did.

People Call It "Sanam"

Provided by Aroundtheworld

This evening I was in the Van Nuys/Panorama City area with my friend Jeffrey. With a full tank of gas at hand, there was nothing to do but cruise along Van Nuys blvd. Along the way, we were discussing how dismal this part of the valley is. Although I was into the conversation, I had to admit, driving and talking at the same time makes me thirsty. At first, I really wanted a traditional Filipino Sago drink from the gourmet kitchen of Goldilocks. But to my surprise they closed around 9 ish. Yea it was a wtf moment. You would think that they would be open for some starving filipinos.

Jeffrey, the resourceful person that he is, knew of a Thai place that was nearby where we could hit up some boba. Upon arrival, I was really happy. I realized that I've been there before. It was none other than Sanam Luang Cafe. Sa- NAM. The previous sentence was a pronunciation key. Youre welcome. Anyways, this place has perhaps some of the best Thai food in the valley. Here they have the conventional pad thai and coconut milk soup, but there are others items to be ordered. While I was there, I only wanted something small to eat, so I merely ordered the fried wontons. To my surprise they were really good. If anything I could have just kept popping them in my mouth. Sadly, I had In-N-Out earlier so I did not have an appetite.

What I especially love about this place is the atmosphere that the interior creates. The inside is trimmed with neon lights that do not, in any way, make the place look tacky. For some reason, it fits right it. Accompanied by the spectacle of lights are a diverse collection of eclectic art arranged on chrome paneled walls.

Address: Sanam Luang Cafe 12980 Sherman Way North Hollywood, CA 91605-4957

Departure: Approx 10 miles and 20 minutes

Post Script: This place is perfect for any late night occasion.

Nude No More

Normally I dont like sharing clothing sources, but in this I'll make an exception. Threadless is perhaps the best source for unique graphic tees that I guarantee no one will have. What makes Threadless special is that all the shirts are designed by ordinary people. The shirts are printed on american apparel shirts and are really affordable. Every monday they come out with at least four new shirts and one reprint of an older one. Check on it daily, you might find something!

Post Script: Threadless gives out points for pics of you wearing your shirt. I havent sent the one above in yet.

Like You'll Never See Me Again, On Tour

Provided by Myspace

Alicia Keys is coming to town and its a sight that shouldnt be missed. With the hit No One under her belt, and the popular appeal of Like You'll Never See Me Again and hopefully my favorite Lesson Learned, the vocalist/pianist will surely be in popular demand when she comes to Los Angeles. She'll be performing at the Honda Center in Anaheaim, CA on 5/04/08 and at Staples Center on 5/05/08. I would write the city for Staples Center, but to think that some people dont know where that is, is a depressing thought. Alicia Keyes' opening act is Jordan Sparks. When i heard this I was surprised. You'd think she would get Common or John Legend to perform at her show. Anyways, tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster. Hurry and get yours today.

Post Script: Lately I've been forgetting to source some of my pics. I'll be mending that wrong from now on.

Dancing Gyros

A couple of weeks ago, I went to a Greek place by the name of Gyros. This place is right across from school, but sadly I've never had the chance to check it out until now. Here they serve just about everything. From lamb to beef, you'll find that any hunger can be statified. I believe the picture above is of a Beef Falafel. If anything you should try one of those. It'll surely fulfill your appetite.

Address: Sadly I cannot find the address. However, the place is located on the corner of Reseda Blvd and Victory Blvd. The place looks like a firehouse but painted blue.

Departure: Assuming 15 minutes and 10 miles.

Post Script: Vegetarians will not have fun here.

As of Now

As of now, I havent been out of the house lately, therefore the ideas of places to go have been coming in slow. Dont worry, I havent died or quit.

More Meat!

If youre really hungry, and want to go all out, then Manna Korean BBQ is the place to go. There are literally only two words that can be used to describe this place, UNLIMITED MEAT. Thats right, for only 17.99 you can have all the meat the world can offer. However, I want to advise you to go in a large group. It was only last weekend that I went here with 6 of my closest friends. At Manna, we were able to consume two whole massive plates of meat. These plates arent youre average dinner size plates, they're double, maybe triple the size. So bring youre appetite, because it will be needed.

On a side note, the atmosphere was very reminiscent to a geuine Korean BBQ bar. At each table there are grills, which are used for grilling the meat. Thats right you have to grill your own meat. The thought may seem like a turn off, but its actually fun. My friends and I really enjoyed grilling our own food. If anything, it was a benefit because we were able to control when and how we wanted our food to be prepared.

Address:
Manna Korean BBQ, 3377 W Olympic Blvd.Los Angeles, CA 90019

Departure:
An hour & 45 miles

Post Script:
Dont wear your best clothes.

Get to the Point

Reseda Point is one of those secret spots that only locals know of. Located south of Ventura Blvd, this view is worthwhile. Once at the top, you can see all of Reseda, Encino, Tarzana, and Van Nuys. When I went, I was able to catch part of the sunset, as well as, the cityscape lit up. The view of the afternoon and the evening were amazing. Like any other lookout point, I felt as if I could stay there for hours, just looking out at part of the valley. If youre a resident of one of the overlooking cities, it would be a good a idea to check out the view.

Address:

The end of Reseda Blvd.

Departure:

Approx 20 minutes and 20 miles.

Post Script:
Make sure to bring a jacket and camera.

More Than Just Produce

If youre craving something new, but indecisive of what to eat, then the Farmer's Market is the place to go. The Farmer's Market, which is adjacent to the Grove, has been around for the forever. Established in 1934, many people have served up the finest of cultural foods.




My personal favorite is the Gumbo Pot. Here, they serve genuine New Orleans style soul food. Soul food is one of my loves. Something about eating it provides a happiness. Whenever I come here, I always order a bowl of either gumbo or jambalaya. This time around i ordered a side of gumbo with a po'boy. A po'boy is essentially a sandwich, but made with a French baguette.

Donuts. Donuts are amazing. After eating at the Gumbo Pot, what better way to end a meal but to go to Bob's Coffee and Donuts. At this stand, one could go crazy. There are so many donuts to choose from, that it makes it impossible to settle on just on particular kind. Dont worry, they're cheap, so stock up!

Address: The Farmer's Market. 6333 West 3rd StreetLos Angeles, CA 90036

Departure: 45 minutes and 35 miles

Post Script: Go to the Grove after enjoying your meal.

BCAM! Pt 2

The wait was over!

Upon arriving at BCAM, I was so stoked. Even before entering the building, I was amazed by the exterior's features. The first thing that can be seen is Transformation. This installation was more than what it appeared to be. Sure it looked like rows of street lamps, but in reality it was it a new outlook for visual perspectives. After exploring Transformation, the next is a piece by Jeff Koones entitled Tulips. Tulips is... well I'll leave you to find out the nature of Tulips. All I will say is that looks are very deceiving. This piece is located in the welcoming plaza, which is essentially an open space that connects BCAM to LACMA.

Sure I was excited about seeing the art and spending time outside, but I was also couldnt wait to see the view from the third floor of the new stucture. Once on the third floor, there is a ledge where you can stand and peer at part of Hollywood. On the left is the 101 freeway, following that to the right is the Hollywood sign. The outlook is similar to what Reseda Point has to offer.

After gazing out, theres nothing left to do but to go inside. Surprisingly, the floors are rather large, so there's no rush to go through the place in one clean sweep. Instead, take your time and soak up each piece of artwork. If you keep this pace up, you will notice the cohesiveness of the art. I felt that each artwork's placement provided an optimum observing experience.

Honestly, I could spend hours writing about BCAM, but I should save some room for you guys.

Address:
LACMA 5905 Wilshire Blvd.Los Angeles CA 90036

Departure:
45 minutes & 30 miles

Post Script:
The museum's exterior is a great place for a photo opt.

It's Pronounced Kanyay

Woah! So Kanye West's megatour is coming to Los Angeles. Not once, but twice! He's scheduled to perform on the 4/21 and 4/22. If you can, you should go to ticketmaster to buy the tickets. The starting price is 54.00, assuming those are the nose bleeders. Hurry before they run out!

Post Script:
Rhianna, Lupe Fiasco, and N.E.R.D. are performing as well.

Fish Fridays. Mmmm

Fish is good. Period. For all the people out there who disagree with me, you guys needs to eat more diverse foods. Anyways, the purpose behind this post is that on fridays some people are limited to the protein they get to eat. Case being, no meat on friday. As a Catholic, I cannot eat meat on fridays as part of the Lenten season. And so, my alternative for meat is sushi. If I cant eat a nice slab of meat, I might as well eat dozens of nicely rolled sushi.

Here are two sushi places I like to eat at. The first is Kaiten Sushi in Encino. What sets this joint aside from all the other sushi palces along Ventura Blvd is that it serves their sushi on small revolving boats on the bar. The sushi is rather cheap and addicting. As soon as you eat one plate of four pieces, you want to keep grabbing more of them off the small boat infront of you.

Address:

Kaiten Sushi 17302 Ventura Blvd, Encino, CA 91316

Departure:
Assuming 20 minutes & 15 miles.

The second is the Sushi Inn in Canoga Park. It's a hole in the wall type of place surrounded by fast food places. Once inside, the atmosphere is pretty dim and authentic. It reminds me of an okiya's interior. Whats good here is that they have a unique menu. Items differ from the typical sushi bar. My personal favorite is the crispy salmon skin roll. Mmmm.

Address:
Sushi Inn 8242 De Soto Ave, Canoga Park, CA

Departure:
Assuming 20 minutes & 10 miles

Post Script:
Sushi beats Fish Filet at McDee's

BCAM! Pt 1

So from 2/16/08 to 2/18/08, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art , or LACMA, is having a special unveiling of their new building BCAM and Transformation Phase 1. This new structure is all about the atmospheric experience and the new direction that LACMA is moving towards.

The building will house a new collection of pieces from artists such as Andy Warhol, Barbara Kruger, and Jean-Michel Basquet. As a whole, these featured works will bring out the vibe that BCAM embodies. With the opening soon approaching, the event has become something that should not be missed.

I didn't mention that the tickets were free did I? Well believe it! Go on LACMA's site now to reserve your free tickets. Yesterday I reserved three for 2/18/08. Reserve your tickets now!

Address:
LACMA 5905 Wilshire Blvd.Los Angeles CA 90036

Departure:

30 minutes & 30 miles

Post Script:

The tickets are free, why not go?

Do Not Underestimate the Swedish

I Heart the Swedish. Everytime I walk into IKEA, I am amazed by the funky ingenuity that is IKEA furniture. The sensibility and uniqueness is addicting and affordable. Maybe too affordable. I own an IKEA bed, and some of the laminate has chipped off. Oh well.

This visit to IKEA was not about the furniture however, it was about the food. Yes IKEA food. Dont underestimate the quality of IKEA food. Surprisingly its really good. Like their furniture, IKEA food is rather cheap but good in quality. Their menu consists of open faced sandwiches, salads, fruit tarts, pasta, and of course, SWEDISH MEATBALLS. Honestly, its a given.

That is why I ordered the number 1 combo, which consisted of those tubey pasta, swedish meatballs, topped with marinara sauce, and accompanied with a slice of garlic bread. I have to say, it was really good. Although the meal seemed simple, it tasted of something more. It fulfilled the lack of sustanance in my body. Even now I yearn for the combo.

Walking through the store alone builds up an appetite, I'm pretty sure this is why they place the cafeteria right in the middle of the showroom. When you get the chance, hit up the nearest IKEA and endulge at the cafeteria. I'm sure you will be satisfied.

Address:
600 N. San Fernando Blvd.Burbank, CA 91502

Departure:
20 minutes & 26 miles

Nearby:
Barnes & Noble, Macy's, and apparently a newly opened Steve & Barry's.

Post Script:
After the checkout, there are hotdogs, softcones, and cinnamon rolls waiting.

Join the Fight

So as I was reading the new H&M magazine, and I noticed what was probably the highlight of that issue. This of course was none other than the Fashion Against AIDS line.

The Fashion Against AIDS collection is comprised of uniquely designed t-shirts . The cause is apparent. In collaboration with Designers Against AIDS, H&M hopes to spread AIDS awareness and safety. Many artists, ranging from Timberland to good Charlotte, have shown their support by designing the t-shirt designs. The line is very affordable and 25 percent of the proceeds are going to towards AIDS research and awareness.

Shortly after reading the article, I called my local H&M. To my surprise they only carried the womens collection. Aftering hearing this I had a WTF moment. However, I soon realized that this set back only made me even more determined to buy a piece of this collection.

Address:
Nearest H&M

Departure:
Assuming 15-45 minutes & 15-60 miles.

Post Script:
Do your part and join the fight against AIDS. Go out to your nearest H&M!

Hey, Hey You, Do You Want to Feel So Energetic?

Around October or November of last year, Jamba Juice released yet another drink to their secret menu, the 3G Energizer. The drink is composed of Green Tea, Ginsang, and Guarana. This concoction is Jamaba Juice's natural contender against all those other bull testosterone enhanced drinks.

In case you didnt know, the secret menu at Jamnba Juice is pretty trippy. It consists of sweet-tooth inspired flavors such as, Sour Patch, Starburst, Skittles, Push Pops, Fruity Pebbles, Strawberry Shortcake, and White or Red Gummy Bear. Personally, I've only tried the White and Red Gummy Bear flavors. Both were really sweet, this is probably why these flavors remain a secret. Having these flavors displayed on their menu would only clash with the healthy nature of Jamba Juice.

Address:
Local

Departure:
Assuming 15 minutes & 5 miles away

Post Script:
These unconventional flavors might be a little more costly then the average Jamba Juice.

After Five Minutes...

For the past week, its been raining in the valley like crazy. Therefore, it didnt provide much motivation to go out. However, last night I decided to venture with my sister and brother in law to the Beverly Connection in Los Angeles to check out the newly opened Steve and Barry's.

Steve and Barry's originally opened its doors on the east coast. Currently its look is being revamped due to celebrity involvement. For instance, Sarah Jessica Parker was on Bravo's Project Runway to ask the designers to create a look for her clothing line BITTEN which is featured at Steve and Barry's.

Going into the story, it only took me five minutes to thoroughly observe the location and its inventory. I expected the clothing and the atmosphere to resemble H&M, but sadly I was disappointed. It was only the women's side that had the more eclectic range of clothing, while the men's section was something out of KMART.

Overall, the experience is only worth while for the ladies.

Address:
8487 West Third St. Los Angeles,CA 90048

Departure:
30 minute drive & 22 miles away

Nearby:
The Beverly Center & Robertson Blvd.

Post Script:
Check out Heritage at the Beverly Center, in case Steve and Barry's didnt fulfill your needs. It sure didnt for me.

Dipped and Ready

So last night I went to Union Station to pick up my friend Jessie who came home for the long weekend from college. If you havent been to Union Station, you should. It was my first time actually stepping into the place, and my initial reaction was on the lines of amazement. Union Station's interior is reminiscient of those old black and white movies that feature a man and woman bidding a long farewell. Truely, from the the ceiling to the chairs, the place is nice.

After picking her up, we went to Philippe's. Philippe's is one of those old Los Angeles landmark's that still remains true to their roots. On the outside, there are multiple signs that display the delicatessans signature logo, while the interior has a long stretch of rooms for dining, as well as, fully functional phone booths. They're the kind you can imagine Superman changing in.

The food here is so good. Their menu ranges from breakfast, which is served at anytime, to their famous french dipped sandwiches. Upon ordering the sandwich at the counter, the person assembles it in front of you. The service is fast, and the price is cheap. Plus, the atmosphere provides a homey quality.

Address:
Philippe The Original 1001 N. Alameda St. Los Angeles CA. 90012

Departure:

30 minute drive & 23 miles away

Nearby:
Other places to hit up that are in the area are Olvera St, Chinatown, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. In case youre wondering.

Post Script:
Make sure to order the lemonade at Philippe's. It's cheap and thirst quenching.

Welcome to the Valley... great

To the Youths of the Valley: We all know that living in the San Fernando Valley sucks. It could possibly be the most anti-climactic, dull, and tiresome part of Los Angeles. Damn, as far as im concerned, "the valley" should not even be considered in any relative connection to places such as Los Angeles and Santa Monica. So that is why I'm here. What it do. I'm Patrick, and I want to present you with Stuck in the Valley. This blog is a lovechild from my adventures of last summer and the adventures that are yet to come, but also a resolution to all of you out there who want to do more than just hangout at the mall or movies. These alternative ideas keep myself from succumbing to the valley's gravitational pull, and will surely provide some good times. These ideas range from local to commericial attractions that will catch your attention. I want to report to the youth of the valley of attractions, events, and anything else inbetween that might spark an interest, motivate exploration, and of course prevent someone from possibly impaling themself from the boredom that is "the valley".