Patrick Molloy’sdid a quick change-over in one week flat. They were able to transform themselves from what I call a “sticky bar” into a real desirable haunt. Updates are smart and well thought out. Made the bar more user friendly. Should be able to really pack ‘em in now. Things to notice: removal of stripper stage, polished concrete floor, loungey VIP couches in back. Bar itself is now a shiny green marble slab. New stools, new booth cushions, brick and mortar wall. Come check it out now, while it still has that new bar smell.
Spiaggia 14 in the space formerly held by Backburner/Eat at Joe’s/Baccio/Amigo’s Tacos (14th St. and Hermosa Ave.), opened Tuesday night. Owners Ernesto and Giovanni plan to be open weekends for pizza, pasta and other specialties until warmer weather and then, bingo, look for them 7 days/week.
David Schat’s Bakery Café, El Segundo. Happy hour Mon-Sat. 3:30-7:00 p.m. Who knew? A bakery with a happy hour! Pretty sure this is Homer Simpson’s dream come true.
Five Manhattan Beach Bakeries
I went in search of the very best pink cookie the South Bay has to offer. Research was performed on Valentine’s Day, or Hallmark Day, as my friend likes to call it.
1. MB Creamery— 1120 Manhattan Ave.
This is THE BEST frosted sugar cookie. Not only is it super fresh, but it also has a little zing. I’m guessing cream of tartar is the secret. Delicious. I never get tired of it. I allow myself to eat one each and every time I’m in the neighborhood. Try the maple bacon ice cream when they have it.
2. Cake Bakeshop— 3319 Highland Ave.
Homemade taste, brag-able quality, salty-sweet combinations. Try the brownie made with hunks of cookie dough baked inside or the 7 layer magic bar. You just can’t go wrong. Every item is yummy.
3. Susie Cakes— 3500 North Sepulveda Blvd.
Have you ever been drunk from eating too much sugar? Ever want to? Well, if you binge like I do, allow time for a 3 hour carb nap afterward. Expect a sudden craving for vegetables to come upon you. Notable lemon bars. Upscale bakery. Upscale prices.
4. Cupcakes Couture— 916 Manhattan Ave
Works of art so beautiful, you’ll think twice about eating them. When you do bite into that pretty Champagne cupcake, you’ll have the same satisfaction as seeing a pretty girl punched in the face. Ever see a girl so cute, you wanna punch her? Well, that’s what these cupcakes do to me. Less of a cupcake, more of a hand-crafted artisan dessert.
5. Beckers Bakery–1025 Manhattan Ave.
There’s a reason this place has a line. It’s yummy and everyone knows it. Plus it’s been around forever, so you know they know what they’re doing. And they make doughnuts. Bringing joy to mouths everywhere since 1942.
My Favorite Thing Week #8: Walnut Gorgonzola Salad at Fritto Misto. Made with delicate baby greens, so it’s not such a chore to eat.
Bartender of the Week: Ron Ciulei at North End Bar & Grill (aka Critters).
Really handsome guy with glittering eyes, unassuming smile and a heart of gold. Rocks a mean mustache during Movember. Ron’s the kind of guy you want to respect you, because he’s the exact opposite of a d-bag. Downright protective of his high-profile customers’ privacy. Everyone here is super nice, and treats you like family. That’s why people LOVE North End. Ask Ron to mix up a Sunrise something or other. So effective, I can’t recall the exact name.
Lots more cool stuff that just won’t fit: www.facebook.com/AnnaCoxTheNightlife anna.thenightlife@gmail.com ER
