California Dreamin'

A few days into my most recent Los Angeles excursion, and I felt I'd say a little something about the Entertainment Capital of the World. It's more legendary than actuality. We've all heard the stories, about the grime and grit, the flash and show, the fake boobies, and of course, the fake boobies. Well it's all true and false, all at the same glorious time.

Hollywood has a certain appeal to the rest of the world, and this appeal makes it even more magical in person, especially to the uninitiated, but it takes a certain perspective to really appreciate the fun times of this big city. Studio City and its Hollywood neighbors are great places for the 20-something and 30s crowd, brimming with bars and hot spots. Rocco's Tavern on Ventura Boulevard is a great example of a Los Angeles sports bar, designed like a warehouse with all four vehicle bay doors wide open, and a plethora of HD widescreens peppering the brick walls. Downsides include way too loud selection of music, and an obsession with 80s pop rock, but what can you do?

Another little gem I've discovered in Studio City is Hugo's Tacos, a little unassuming stand that serves three dollar trifectas of tacos with any kind of sauce you could want, and it's quite delicious for a great value. It's located just off The 405 and Coldwater Canyon.

More on my delightful adventures through food and pleasure in the City of Angels will include a very generic touristy exploration of Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard naturally. But that might just go into my scrapbook. I really want to talk and discuss the reality of Los Angeles, not the HD panoramic pictures that everyone shows off at birthday parties and shindigs.

And on a real person note, In-And-Out Burger is quite possibly the best fast food in America, and it's all over this city. Hit it up if you've never had the chance. Simple and elegant.