Tag: restaurants in Los Angeles

Getting Historic at The Edmon Bar

Posted on February 4, 2017February 6, 2017 by stilettocity

One thing vintage enthusiasts share is a love for the aesthetics of eras past in architecture, design and fashion. We love the quality, the attention to detail, the textures and elegant sensibilities that we just don’t see in buildings or clothing style anymore. With such a disposable culture all around us, it’s nice to find a few places that still appreciate old world charm. One of those places is the recently opened Edmon Bar.

Located inside the Hollywood Historic Hotel, built in 1927 by architect S. Charles Lee, the Edmon invites those who long for an atmosphere of sophistication. The hotel itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is worth a peek inside the red lobby. Definitely take a selfie in front of the stunning, ornate red and gold double door entry. The Edmon is the adjacent bar that was lovingly brought back to life, fully embracing its historic past but modern enough for today’s trendy crowds and studio folks who work just down the street.

I went with a pack of my vintage-loving gal pals who have been curious about the Edmon since we heard rumors of it bringing back the original Art Deco style of the building. As soon as we entered from the awe-inspiring elaborate iron door, we knew we stepped foot in heaven. From the elegant lighting of gorgeous chandeliers and sconces to the massive bar with vintage fixtures to the details design on the columns, we were wrapped in the elegance of a bygone era.

The wait staff was friendly and accommodating. While they have a generous list of signature cocktails, the bartender was happy to whip up a special drink for me when I mentioned I had a craving for something creamy and festive.

Classic jazz music played in the background at a volume suitable for conversation (thank goodness they didn’t spoil the setting with techno!)

The place is perfect for a romantic dinner date or a stop in for a classy drinking experience. The night we went, it was crowded but still comfortable to hang at the bar, where they will also serve your meal if can’t pull yourself away from the illuminated view of the wall of alcohol. You can also watch the bartender climb a ladder to reach for a special libation.

Vintage Girl Squad Drinks at the Edmon — With my girl squad

What I Wore

Out for dress-up night with the girls, meant pulling out something special. I went with creamy winter white in a brocade swing dress with belted waistline. Gold heels and a vintage gold handbag with rhinestone detail played off the golden shimmer of the brocade in my dress. A vintage red velvet wrap with tassel trim and gold silk lining completed the look.

What to Wear

With Valentine’s day coming up, I highly recommend the Edmon for a romantic dinner. While I normally don’t advise going too matchy with your outfit and accessories, it’s the one night you can truly be the lady in red and look just right. A red, off-shoulder, wiggle dress with fishtail hemline is the perfect sexy look. A heart-shaped purse is a playful touch while red and black, lace-trim heels add just the right touch of romance.

The Edmon is located at 5168 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038

Think love,
Kastle

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Tags: bars in Los Angeles, Kastle Waserman, restaurants in Los Angeles, Stiletto City, The Edmon

Tag: restaurants in Los Angeles

Lady in Red at Casa Vega

Posted on July 31, 2016August 7, 2016 by stilettocity

In the dim lighting that picks up the rosy hue of red leather booths, red tablecloths, and brick walls, everyone looks a little bit more attractive as they sit down for some traditional Mexican fare at Casa Vega. It also provides a discreetly private atmosphere for the many celebrities who frequent this restaurant that has been serving the stars and the locals since 1956. Arched doorways of traditional Spanish architecture usher you into rooms lined with Mexican paintings and tables overflowing with sizzling plates of food. The bar near the front is bustling serving a large variety of jumbo-sized signature drinks, which goes down great with hearty serving of hand-chopped guacamole and chips or a full-on plate of enchiladas.

Casa Vega has been a family-run fixture on the corner of movie studio adjacent Sherman Oaks, which might be why one of their first customers was actress Jane Fonda. George Clooney was known to bring his dates there, and celebrities continue to stream into the relaxed supper club setting. It was also the perfect place to meet a gal pal for cocktails and girl talk like I did the other night.

What I Wore

When I think of Casa Vega, I always think of the red glow of the interior and the restaurant’s logo, so a red vintage dress was in order for the night. This sharkskin dress is one of my favorites because of the deep red hue streaked with black, and the sheen of the fabric. I always like to give it a touch of rock ‘n’ roll with a studded black leather belt, a gun metal silver vintage reproduction purse, and some spiky stilettos. I let my hair go wild after a dose of steam rollers, and did a simple sideswept pinup do.

What To Wear

Be the lady in red with this charming, short sleeve, wiggle dress paired with a matching red handbag and deceptively sexy white mary jane stilettos. Click the links to shop* this look!

Casa Vega is located at 13301 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

Adios!
Kastle

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Tags: bars in Los Angeles, Kastle Waserman, restaurants in Los Angeles, Stiletto City

Tag: restaurants in Los Angeles

Country Western Style at the Saddle Ranch Chop House

Posted on March 30, 2016March 31, 2016 by stilettocity

The Sunset Strip may be known as the home of rock ‘n’ roll debauchery, bands breaking into the big time, and fine dining between party stops, but one place that stands out among the pack – the country western stylings of the Saddle Ranch Chop House.

Just its presence on the Strip promises you’ll be in for a unique experience, looking like a larger-than-life honky tonk with feather boa-draped saloon dollies out to greet you on the balcony. Step inside the action and you’ll be seated around a mechanical bull ring where brave patrons take a wild ride for all to see.

We took a seat in a booth and longingly eyed the bigger-than-your-head cotton candy desserts served at other tables. But cocktails were more my speed to quench my sweet tooth so I ordered up one of their signature drinks – a Spike Honey Lemonade with honey whiskey (Mmmm!) peach schnapps, raspberry liqueur and lemonade with a splash of soda.

The wait staff seem to specialize in down-home hospitality as they came around to greet us, as well as other staff members offering up some memorabilia for sale. I was told the place makes a mean steak so I ordered up a slow roasted Tri-Tip and oh my, they weren’t lyin’! That was one juicy, tasty steak, cooked just right!

We were quite entertained with all the wannabe cowboys testing their luck on the mechanical bull and with the entire scene in general. While this place may be a favorite for the tourist crowd, it’s also fun for locals to experience a little something different on the Los Angeles landscape. Yeeehaw!

What I Wore

For a night at of country western stylin’ I wore my vintage-inspired square dancers T-shirt from Atomic Swag with a simple, black, pencil skirt. My trusty, old black cowboy boots adorned with a concho boot strap came out to play, and a red bandana head scarf completed the look.

Going Country Western Style
To go for retro country western style for the night, you can always grab one of the great T’s from Atomic Swag and pair it with some jeans. Or go more pinup with a cute bandana print dress, topped with a sweet hat with bandana hatband. Don’t forget your cowboys boots partner! Click the links to shop* this look!

So head out for a night on the Strip, a good steak, and ride ’em cowboy!

The Saddle Ranch Chop House is located at 8371 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Boy howdy!
Kastle

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Tags: Country Western Style, Kastle Waserman, restaurants in Los Angeles

Tag: restaurants in Los Angeles

Swing Dress Style to Heart Clifton’s Cafeteria

Posted on February 14, 2016May 2, 2016 by stilettocity

We waited for it. Word spread throughout Los Angeles a few years ago that Clifton’s Cafeteria would be undergoing a massive renovation and reopening. Finally, in the fall of last year, Clifton’s double doors ushered in a new era – and it did not disappoint! With it’s all encompassing design full of intrigue and whimsy, it’s a place to be whether you are out for a casual meal or fancy cocktails. It quickly became the largest jewel in the crown of a revitalization-in-progress in Downtown LA’s Historic Core.

Originally opening in 1935 and decorated in the style of the Brookdale Lodge, where founder Clifford Clinton spent much of his childhood, Clifton’s was known as the world’s largest cafeteria and attracted everyone from luminaries such as Walt Disney, to blue collar workers, to the depression era’s down ‘n’ out who were welcomed with the policy of, “pay as you wish.”

The new Clifton’s retains much of the quirky charm of the original, including a forest theme featuring a five-story redwood tree sprouting right through the middle of the venue, as well as waterfalls and charming bridges, and winding, cavernous paths dotted with taxidermy wild animals – a tribute to founder Clinton’s love of hunting (though if you hold your phone over the nearby plaques, you’ll hear about wildlife conservation efforts.)

Under the carefully guided vision of its latest owner, Andrew Meieran (known for his stunning creation of the Edison Bar), the new Clifton’s has three floors to explore with a bevy of treats for the eyes and belly. The Cafeteria is located on the first floor with classic foods from pizza to pie to Jell-O. On the second floor is the Monarch Bar where you can socialize in elegant style under the giant redwood tree and take your trays of food up to the many tables and chairs and nooks and crannies to dine with your peeps. On the third floor is a Gothic Bar, which offers dramatic style. More rooms and bars are expected to open in the near future including a Tiki Bar, which my little circle of friends are quite excited about!

What I Wore

I went to meet friends for Valentine’s weekend cocktails so I felt a frothy, feminine vintage-style swing dress was in order. I’ve always considered myself a pencil skirt, wiggle dress kind of girl but with some recent purchases of a full circle skirts and dresses, I’ve been enjoying the new silhouette. Pair it with a voluminous petticoat and you have a classic ‘50s heartbreaker, such as this look I put together with a red, floral swing dress and black petticoat peeking out to accent the pattern. Some delicate, vintage-inspired earrings and black pumps completed the look – and a rose from my sweetie!

How to Have Swing Dress Style

You’ll feel like the belle of the bar in a swing dress with a fun print and a frothy petticoat underneath like this dress in hot pink with white polka dots. Add a white petticoat to compliment the print and you won’t be able to help but sway bath and forth like sweet Sandra D. in “Grease.” Some classic pumps will take you higher and balance the look with ultra girl appeal. Click the links to shop* this look.

If you’re in LA, you simply must check out Clifton’s Cafeteria, have a drink and enjoy their “cabinet of curiosities!”

Clifton’s is located at 648 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014

We heart you Clifton’s!
Kastle

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Tags: bars in Downtown LA, bars in Los Angeles, Historical Sites, Kastle Waserman, LA Nightclubs, nightclub, restaurants in Los Angeles, retro style

Tag: restaurants in Los Angeles

Senorita Style at Viva Cantina

Posted on February 8, 2016May 2, 2016 by stilettocity

Along a tree-lined boulevard in Burbank, CA, you can find homes that have horses in their backyards instead of dogs. It’s a neighborhood of equestrians and a perfect spot for a honky-tonk style watering hole that serves up some classic Mexican grub and cocktails. Viva Cantina has long been a hangout for locals and music lovers and it just felt right to put on a little Senorita style to go check out some music.

Directly adjacent to the LA Equestrian Center, you have to watch out for horses crossing the road while you look for street parking, as the tiny parking lot usually fills up early. Viva Cantina has two music rooms and two bars so you can catch an abundance of music on any given night. The place used to get packed out on the weekends with the rockabilly crowds, now it’s mostly local blues, country and jazz acts. On any given night you can catch a local act such as Jimmy Angel or on the night I went, Gary Myrick.

What I Wore

Since it was Mexican food and bluesy tunes, I felt a little Senorita style was in order. So I grabbed my ruffled top, that sits seductively on my shoulders, and a classic pencil skirt in jewel-tone purple hue. A big ol’ hair flower behind my ear adds the finishing touch.

Style Your Night

To add a little Senorita style to a night out, think ruffles or lace. This wonderful necktie top with lace trim that matches a colorful lace overlay skirt will have you looking elegant and ready to take a spin on the dance floor. Don’t forget some comfortable dancing shoes with unique detail. Add a colorful hair flower from a huge selection on eBay for a feminine touch. Click the links to shop* this look!

Viva Cantina is located at 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA 91506

Cha, cha cha,
Kastle

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Tags: bars in Los Angeles, Kastle Waserman, LA Nightclubs, Nightclubs, restaurants in Los Angeles, senorita style

Tag: restaurants in Los Angeles

Swingin’ with the Blues at the Smoke House

Posted on January 24, 2016May 2, 2016 by stilettocity

There aren’t many places left in Los Angeles where you can enjoy some true Hollywood history, but one little gem in Burbank is chock full of it. I slipped into a pinup style swing dress to take in some blues, great food and the old Hollywood vibe of The SmokeHouse.

Established in 1946, this vintage supper club moved to its current location in 1948. Designed by reknown architect Wayne McAllister, the building features an English Tudor style on the outside. Inside, the first thing you want to do is cozy up in one of the classic, round, red, leather booths in the dining room or check out the lively bar area where a regular roster of blues acts hit the stage. Black and white photos of some of Hollywood’s beloved glamour stars line the walls watching over the action. For those who don’t care to see and be seen, there’s discreet, private dining space in the back.

Located right across from Warner Bros. studios, it’s easy to see why this place became a favorite of actors, entertainers and industry movers and shakers who come over for lunch and dinner after a day on the stages. You just might sit in the same spot as Errol Flynn, Cary Grant, Robert Redford, Lana Turner or Brad Pitt.

You can just feel the spirit of the entertainment business here you and can’t help but do a few scans of the room to look for some star names. It’s been said pre-married George Clooney often brought his dates here and canoodled in the dark area of the bar.

And while the atmosphere is top notch, so is the food. You can dig into a prime steak, BBQ, or seafood, served in generous portions or try out their famous Sunday buffet. Don’t forget to start out with their cheesy, garlic bread, which is the stuff of legend!

What I Wore

I put on some festive, pinup style glamour for this showbiz hotspot in a royal blue, vintage reproduction, swing dress, silver metallic shoes and vintage handbag and rhinestone necklace. I love metallics because they go with everything and always add a touch of sparkle. I was ready to grab a drink at the bar and take a spin on the dance floor!

Get a Swingin’ Pinup Style Look

Since it’s time to start thinking about a Valentine’s Day outfit, I picked out something red for you. Make note, The SmokeHouse is a great choice for a special romantic dinner, hint, hint! There could be a roomful of stars and your date won’t take their eyes off you if you show up in this captivating cherry color swing dress, retro tuxedo shoes and whimsical heart-shaped purse. Black and crystal earrings add a touch of glamour without trying too hard. You’ll look as elegant across the table as you will during a lovely slow dance. Click the links to shop* this look!

The SmokeHouse is located at 4420 Lakeside Dr, Burbank, CA 91505

Now that’s hot,
Kastle

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Tags: Kastle Waserman, LA Nightclubs, Nightclubs, pinup style, restaurants in Los Angeles, where to go in Los Angeles

Tag: restaurants in Los Angeles

Going Boho Chic at Inn of the Seventh Ray

Posted on January 10, 2016January 11, 2016 by stilettocity

Nestled in the trees of Topanga Canyon, a magical place twinkles in the night. Lovely garden furniture surrounds a flower-strewn fountain. Little gazebos and nooks twist off from the main area and down alongside a bubbling creek. Offering a mix of the Canyon’s boho chic aesthetic with a hearty dose of romance , the Inn of the Seventh Ray is one of the loveliest dining spots in Los Angeles and the perfect place to rock some boho chic style.

I had long heard of this place but visited only recently. Venturing down the cobblestone steps to be seated by the fountain, I found the food to be excellent and the setting, well, what can you say, take your sweetie and just bask in the beauty of it all. Near the entrance is a gift shop where you can load up on necessities to feed your spirit or just grab a token to remember your night – from candles and crystals to incense and oils.

What I Wore

It was a particularly chilly night in Los Angeles when I went, and the Canyon tends to get a breeze through it, especially by the creek. Thank goodness the place has heat lamps and a small indoor dining space with a fireplace! I wanted to put on my best boho chic look, so I busted out a fringe-trimmed poncho, leggings and boots that kept me snuggly and warm. I paired it with a purse made of 45 vinyl records I picked up on a trip to Buenos Aires and exotic round dangle earrings.

Get Your Boho Chic On

Let out your inner bohemian love child for a night of romance with a fringe-trimmed, sweater dress and leggings. A floppy black hat really makes the boho look as do these boots with the killer sun / moon cutouts on the toe. Punctuate the look with some feather and bead dangle earrings. Click the links to shop* this look!

Don’t miss out on a night of magical ambiance.

The Inn of the Seventh Ray is located at 128 Old Topanga Canyon Rd, Topanga, CA 90290

Peace and love,
Kastle

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Tag: restaurants in Los Angeles

Love Letter to Paris and French Style

Posted on November 15, 2015November 26, 2015 by stilettocity

The terrorist attacks on Paris hit close to home for many of us in the nightlife and music community in Los Angeles. Just a regular Friday night out on the town turned into a nightmare nobody expected. This, in the City of Lights, that I have had the pleasure of visiting twice. I fell in love with Paris for its beauty, its wealth of artistic spirit and its legendary French style. In my visits, there was nothing I enjoyed more than wondering the streets and just feeling a sense of passion for creativity among the people there. I had meals in the many lively cafes and cherished the undeniable pure romance of the scenery. When I learned of of Friday’s tragedy, my heart broke and I was sickened by the attacks on this beautiful city and its people.

Feeling helpless so many miles away, we sought solidarity in one of our favorite cafes in LA, The Figaro Bistrot in Los Feliz.

We arrived and found this little French restaurant and bar packed, many having the same idea as we did – to not cave to the fear, to go out, have dinner in a café, be among friends and neighbors and live life to fullest despite the attempts of evil-doers who try to scare us.

The restaurant had a candle-lit memorial burning outside its doors, which moved us greatly. While having a meal doesn’t make up for the many lives lost, we hoped it would make a small statement in a huge tragedy.

The Figaro Bistrot is lovely inside, which its checkered floors, cast iron chandeliers, French antiques, patisserie bar, cocktail bar and little, red, banquette booths. There is seating out on the sidewalk, as well as an intimate annex room. The place is so gorgeous that designer Marc Jacobs had Madonna photographed wearing his collection there. See the photos. And yes, the food is delicious. I indulged in red wine, Coq au Vin and coffee and sweets for dessert.

What I Wore

As my personal tribute to Paris, I wore a dress and necklace I picked up on my travels there. Wearing all black seemed appropriate on this night of mourning, but I wanted to add a pop of color as a show of hope and optimism. The A-line dress is delicate like an elegant, baby-doll nightie, detailed with romantic ruffles on the neckline, sleeves and hemline. My one, glamorous, rhinestone, bib, statement necklace was enough jewelry so I didn’t add any other pieces to prevent looking overdone. I punctuated the look with bright pink from my retro style handbag and hair flower made by my pal Nicole of NiccocoCreations. My vintage leopard coat kept me warm on this chilly fall night.

Dressing with French Style

French style has always been known for being chic and looking effortless. Classic lines and simplicity are key, with an undeniable cool factor and subtle sex appeal. A romantic, vintage style, mesh overlay dress detailed with florals and scallops will bring Parisian charm to your look, while a coat with a strong A-line silhouette and pop of color adds sophistication. Keep accessories to a minimum with just one bold statement necklace in a color that blends with the outfit rather than adding more color or complexity. And of course, an Eiffel Tower charm bracelet doesn’t hurt to show your solidarity and love for the amazing city of Paris.

Then go out, enjoy life and visit a French-inspired place near you.

If you would like to contribute to the victims, donate to The Sweet Stuff Foundation or the memorial fund for Nick Alexander, the merchandise manager for the band Eagles of Death Metal who was killed in the attack.

The Figaro Bistrot is located at 1802 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

We love you Paris. Stay strong.
Kastle

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Tag: restaurants in Los Angeles

Dress like a Boss in Pinup Style for Drinks at Little Dom’s

Posted on November 8, 2015November 30, 2015 by stilettocity

There aren’t many places you can walk around in Los Angeles because it’s so spread out, which is why I love the Los Feliz area. Lots of cafes, bars and shops to make the district your runway to show off some pinup style while out in the action.

My BFF and I recently popped into Lil’ Doms for a drink. This Italian restaurant has a New York City feel, bustling with hipsters seated in railroad booths taking in the sumptuous Italian grub, while we hung by the vintage wooden bar. Upstairs, the dining room looks like a place the Rat Pack might have held court with circular booths and retro touches of black and white photos on the walls. Lil Dom’s owner also owns the 101 Coffee Shop and Dominick’s, which have similar classic Hollywood vibes.

What I Wore

I was feeling very much like an Italian gangster’s moll in my pinup style wiggle dress and fascinator hat. To soften the look, I added a delicate, black beaded necklace. When the evening got chilly, I pulled on a little short sweater that ties in front. I just happened to come across a cool, classic car to pose in front of. I think this ride goes nicely with my outfit – wish I could’ve taken it home with me!

Dressing in Sexy Pinup Style for Cocktails

Dressing pinup style shows the world you’re in charge and can you can rock the retro look in a fierce red wiggle dress with flirty peplum detail. A hat always commands attention and this cocktail hat with net overlay is no exception. Add some ladylike charm with a dainty beaded necklace and we all know red lipstick means business, so why not carry a tube as your purse with this fun novelty bag! Click the links to shop* this look!

So reach for some pinup style next time you want to feel in charge and head out on the town. Everyone will know who’s boss!

Little Dom’s is located at 2128 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Wear it like you mean it,
Kastle

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Tag: restaurants in Los Angeles

Exploring Lakeside Cafe: How to Dress in Pinup Style

Posted on July 18, 2015October 5, 2015 by stilettocity

There are so many hidden gems around Los Angeles it’s almost impossible to know them all. That’s one of the many reasons I enjoy being part of the Art Deco Society and their monthly Cocktails in Historic Places. Not only is it a good excuse to dress up vintage and pinup style, but I get to discover some of the city’s best kept secrets.

The latest gathering took place at The Lakeside Cafe, a newly opened restaurant in Encino located adjacent to the charming grounds of Los Encinos State Historic Park. A little gateway leads you out to a path to explore one of Southern California’s most historic sites.

The exceptionally nice park ranger on duty took us on tour along the beautiful natural spring and duck pond and into the newly-refurbished De la Ossa Adobe, where displays showed how the families lived here in the late 1800s. We were able to get a peek at the decorative, French country-inspired, hand-painted finish on the walls, revealed through severe damage suffered in the Northridge earthquake. Learn more in this little film on the restoration.

In the 1920s, the bunkhouse became a restaurant where locals were able to sip wine with their meals away from the watchful eyes of prohibition agents, that is until they were caught!

The Rancho remained vacant until 1944, when it was saved from developers by the Encino community and turned into this lovely café and grounds.

What I Wore

For the evening I wore my Tatyana Megan dress. I waited FOREVER for this dress to come back in stock and it was so worth it. This slim-fitting retro shift dress comes with to-die-for details of a little keyhole in front and surprise of flaps revealing a low cut back. I paired the monochrome look with black and white heels from Pinup Girl Clothing and a Tiki-print, bamboo handled bag from Viva Dulce Marina.

What To Wear for Pinup Style

If you happen to make it out to Lakeside Cafe or any other romantically set restaurant in Los Angeles, here’s an idea of what to wear* with a little pinup style. You’ll turn heads in this emerald green retro dress with gorgeous details. Some cherry earrings are classic 1950s style. A pair of nude retro shoes with a high heel will put some elegance in your step, as will a cream-colored, vintage-style purse. (Click the links to shop* the look!)

Make history,
Kastle

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Tags: bars in Los Angeles, Kastle Waserman, pinup style, restaurants in Los Angeles, retro style, things to do in Los Angeles