California Love - Frans Hit Los Angeles

Me and my Fran girl gang, headed to Los Angeles to celebrate the nuptials of an original Fran. We could not wait to soak up some sun and LA vibes. As soon as we hit Cali soil we bolted to the pool. The Ace Hotel Downtown became OUR spot. I'm not going to share the number of times we visited the Ace during our trip but it was close to our hotel and offered outdoor space, quality cocktails and an awesome atmosphere. 

What's a trip to Cali without going to the beach? Who can resist! We ventured to Venice for some sun and surf. So picturesque. 

If you are in Venice you have to check out the Venice Whaler. Located right on the beach before the boardwalk, this bar & grill is so much more than you think. The food is classic bar food kicked up a notch.

Cocktails!!!!

Our meal started with the Tuna Poke Bowl. Definitely not your typical beach bar food. 

The main dishes included the Grilled Cod Tacos, Buffalo Wings (that were free-range and basically a full chicken) and the Venice Burger with Sweet Potato Fries. This burger was covered with blue cheese, arugula and caramelized onions...come on!

Do not miss this spot. Executive Chef Nick Liberato is a genius and a great guy. His menu is creatively crafted and absolutely delicious. 

More to come in this California adventure...

naturally ginger

California - Malibu and Venice

With crystal clear blue skies everyday, how could I resist a trip to the beach during my California adventure?! Jenny suggested we head to Malibu for the day. The best part of Malibu beaches are the canyons you drive through to get to there. Canyon valley views, vineyards on hilltops, cliff side mansions, I was glad Jenny was driving cause I couldn't keep my eyes off the scenery. 

Before heading to the airport my last evening, we stop off in Venice. I learned Venice has many different parts. The colorful quirky beachfront is just a small portion of what this area has to offer. We stuck to the shops and restaurants on Abbot Kinney Blvd with a bit of wandering to the Venice Canal Historical District.

We decided on happy hour at Zinque. 

Located on the corner of Venice Blvd and Abbot Kinney Blvd, this coffee/wine bar has a lovely outdoor patio and inside that is bathed in natural sunlight.

Wanting to soak up all the sun I could, we perched outside and ordered a couple glasses of Rose.

The cheese board is not on the happy hour menu, but how could I resist. We also noshed on olives and mini sausage (both on the happy hour menu for about $3 each).

After we strolled over to the Venice Canals. The canals will originally constructed to help with water flow, but due to poor original construction they were deemed unusable. Over the years, the City of Venice has worked to reinforce the structure and clean up the canal waters. Now, as you stroll along the bridges and pathways, you are transported to another time and place. The area is picturesque and makes you forget you are in the middle of a major metropolitan city.

(Dress: ASOS / Sunglasses & Bag: Kate Spade New York / Necklace: Loft / Shoes: Top Shop)

Bon Voyage for now California. I'll miss your ocean breeze and sunshine. Back to the Concrete Jungle where dreams are made. 

xoxo