"I Do Yoga and Pilates and the Room is Full of Hotties"

Well, well, well, the Hip Chick blogs again. Didn't think it would come so soon, huh?

In my last entry, I don't think I did my trainer, Tracie Hendricks, enough justice with one shout out....apparently, neither did she. Before her nod of disapproval of my sharing that I had brown rice with dinner, she pulled me aside and told me that she didn't like how food stole her Lean Mean Fighting Machine spotlight. I explained to her that the Hip Chick blogs about food; although, now that I have her in my life, she thought I should put more emphasis on physical activities - not just food - in LA...

...and, since I love her and she is transforming my body into steel, I agreed.

As I've mentioned time and time again, I workout a lot. For those of you that go to the gym, run, hike, do yoga, yadda yadda yadda, you know there comes a point in the workout where you just have to stop; it becomes too hard. Let me tell you a little something about Tracie. The first time I trained with her, I almost puked. After 150 side/leg lifts at the end of our hour-long workout, I had to run upstairs and stick my head in the toilet. No, I didn't hurl, although I came pretty damn close. Tracie pushes me to the point of no return. In addition to reminding me to relax my face, stick in my tongue, and contract my abs, she constantly tells me that training my body is so beneficial, and she works with my strengths and challenges me in ways I never thought possible. She is very realistic, keeping the mindset that she trains her clients so she can one day set them free, applying the knowledge she has given them after the trainer/client relationship comes to an end.

Even though some may look at me and think I'm crazy for hiring a personal trainer, this is something that I am doing for my own well-being, happiness and health. Tracie teaches me to honor, worship, and listen to my body, strengthening and maintaining its health for years and years to come. She lets me take breaks but never lets me quit.

And the relationship doesn't stop when our time together is up. Tracie is always texting me, asking how I feel after a workout. She also makes me feel a bit crappy over text, telling me that if I don't feel sore after a workout then I'm just cheating myself. Tough love? I think so. And it sure as shit works. If I'm out at a restaurant and can't decide what to eat, I can shoot her a text and ask for her advice. Despite her favoritism of healthy, protein-packed meals, Tracie doesn't believe in depriving oneself of deliciously unhealthy treats; she'll just push you that much harder the next time you meet. Another benefit to working with Tracie? You get to experience her classes at Equinox where, I believe, all the beautiful people go. This morning I saw Janice Dickinson, her barely legal boyfriend, and Jackie from "Work Out."

The best thing about Tracie? She always puts a smile on my face. Whether she's yelling, "Oh Challah!" (yes, that spelling is correct) to the passing cars or laughing at me for wearing pigtails and running like a five-year old girl, she reminds me that this personal training is something that will only help me in the long run. She has also blessed me with the mantra, "Hair down, boobs up," reinforcing the fact that looking good at the gym and putting a little mascara on the eyes never hurt anyone. Personal training and improved self confidence go hand-in-hand.

Next week we're upping the ante with hikes at Fryman and...eek...running. Will I survive the intensity and be able to blog again? Only time will tell.

Again, if you want to link up with Tracie, feel free to contact me directly.

I'm in LA, Trick!

The Banana Pudding at Toast: Well worth the $6.95 and bazillion calories

One of my favorite things about living in the city is the plethora of opportunities at my fingertips. It's pretty rare if I have to get in a car to experience great food, a good workout, or a new wardrobe (hey, I can't help it if Old Navy's workout clothes are on sale). I walk everywhere and discover new and exciting things every day. Here are some of my newest LA finds:

A.O.C. 8022 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles 90048

To quote a dear friend, "A.O.C. - A.O.Amazing!" This was my second time trying A.O.C. and it had been about three or four years since the first time I tried it. I indulged here with three of my closest friends, and we - so "Sex and the City" like - chatted over wine and small plates filled with cheese, salads, vegetables, fish, and, of course, dessert. The roasted dates with parmesan and bacon were out of this world, as were the beet salad and farro and black rice with pinenuts and currants. This is a great place to go with a small group of friends or on a date, and they even have a private terrace upstairs which would be great for parties. This place is pricey, but well worth every penny. And the wine list has something to satiate everyone's palate.

Boss Sushi 268 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills 90211

Sushi is my favorite food, by far, and Boss did no less than impress. Try the Princess Camille, Beverly Hills 90211 and Rainbow Dragon rolls. The portions are huge. The seaweed salad and green tea are great too. Parking in back or try a meter in front (free after 6p). They accept reservations, but they're not always necessary. Yet another great sushi joint in LA. You got it, Boss!

Toast Bakery Cafe 8221 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles 90048

If you try eating here anytime before 2p.m. any day of the week, don't expect to immediately snag a table. This place is PACKED! Whether it's the food, the location, or the celeb spottings (isn't that Scarlett Johansson??), there's something special that puts Toast on the edible map. I've been here a few times and always seem to order the Garden Salad: mixed greens, sun-dried tomatoes, goat cheese, pinenuts, strips of grilled garden burger, and house vinagrette dressing. I recommend the half portion, since the regular size is massive. Now don't get me started on the dessert. They have this birthday cake thing, which is vanilla cake with buttercream frosting, and I would make it walk down the aisle with me if it could. I was also introduced to the banana pudding (see pic above) the other day by my love, Liza. This pudding is to die for!! Liza and I split it and chomping through the layers was like unwrapping each of the eight Chanukah presents: the very top is Oreo cookies; the second layer is banana pudding; the third layer is Oreo crumbs; the fourth later is banana chunks; and the fifth later is all that shit mixed together. OMFG! Amazing! I had a ginormous tummy ache later that night, although the pain was well worth it. Is that a banana in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me?

Toppings Yogurt 349 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills 90211

Ma Nishma? Toppings is both a fantastic yogurt spot and a Kosher eater's delight. So many Chosen People -- I love it!! It's always nice to connect with your peeps while satisfying your belly. This place is, apparently, along the lines of Menchie's, where you serve yourself and pay by the ounce. Great yogurt selections and even better toppings. You might find it beneficial to put the toppings on the bottom and the top. Try the coconut yogurt bottomed and topped (that's what he said) with rainbow sprinkles, heath bar, cheesecake bites and chocolate chip cookie dough balls. Yeah, that's right, I put all that on my yogurt. I also really enjoy the peanut butter yogurt, my cousin's fiancee likes the mint, and my cousin and brother like the chocolate. A lot of something for everyone at a totally reasonable price. How can you complain? You fill it up yourself!

Now, I know you're probably thinking, "My lord, woman, STOP EATING!!" Well, my friends, if you are dedicated readers and have been following me from the start, you will know that I eat hard and exercise hard. Although I don't deprive myself of delicious eats, most days are spent eating vegetables, fruit, tofu, and brown rice. I also workout five-to-six days a week and have added a personal trainer to the mix. A BIG shout out to my trainer, Tracie Hendricks, who kicks my ass into shape and never lets me quit. For more information on how you can link up with Tracie, feel free to contact me directly.

If you ever wonder how I crank out all this witty jargon, I do it by sitting with my laptop in my living room or at some type of a coffee shop, pop in my earbuds, and listen to Pandora or ITunes. Try this one on for size: Dance is Dead (Tocadisco Remix) by Boosta. Enjoy!

Movin' On Up!

Lunch at FOOD+LAB in West Hollywood

Well, my friends, it has been quite some time since I've blogged. Despite my brief hiatus, I am back, and ready to take on the blogging world. Allow me to fill you in on some of my recent happenings.

The main reason for my lack of blogging is the fact that I moved. Yes, kids, I'm out of the valley and back out on my own in the City of Angels. Words can't express the amount of gratitude I feel towards my aunt and uncle for taking me into their home for the past two significant years. They gave me such huge amounts of love and support through so many life changes, that I grow teary-eyed when I think of how much I'll miss their daily presence. In the past two years, I survived grad school (What did you say? A 3.9 GPA? Yeah, that's right.), received my teaching credential in Elementary Education, landed a job for the fall at a wonderful school in the valley, ended a relationship that was masking my inner happiness, got two tattoos, went to Israel, and encountered the deaths of four of my beloved family members, one of which was my maternal grandmother and my last living grandparent. Needless to say, these past two years have been life-changing, and I would not have been able to hold my head up through most of these events, had it not been for my aunt and uncle. But, as we all know, life goes on, and it's time for me to grab the reins of life by myself once again.

Okay, okay, I know what you're really here for, my take on LA life. So, slow your roll, and allow me to share...

FOOD+LAB 7253 Santa Monica Blvd., Trannyville, CA 90046

This place is totally hidden amongst the Russian markets and nudie bars in West Hollywood. It was introduced to me by one of my best friends, Steph, who read about it on Daily Candy, and we decided to try it one Saturday afternoon. We shared the prosciutto with ricotta, fig, and balsamic honey reduction sandwich, cucumber salad, potato salad with prosciutto (Kosher, much?), and a couscous-like salad with dried fruit. Everything was delicious. The one drawback I have is that the service was slow, but we were very happy once the food came. Few tables, parking in rear or meters on Santa Monica Blvd. Definitely a place to check out, and the food is reminiscent of Joan's on Third, another fave and my new local hotspot.

Joan's on Third 8350 West Third St., Los Angeles 90048

What can I say about Joan's on Third? It's simply delicious. From the apricot glazed ham and brie sandwich, to the baby field greens salad, to the everything cookie and the Snickers cupcake, you really can't go wrong. Apparently, the egg salad sandwich and macaroni and cheese are amazing. A bit of a steep price for a simple lunch, but the food and ambiance are well worth it. Don't expect to snag a table as soon as you get there; this place is always crowded. Great for peeping LA locals and celebs (What up, Dr. Hahn?). Parking might be tough (meters on 3rd), but if you dine with Yours Truly, it's a 2-minute walk from my apartment. Look forward to bumping into you there.

Bollywood Dance, 24 Hour Fitness 8612 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood 90046

Talk about having fun while working out. This class is AWESOME! One of my best friends, Alice, is in town from NY, so she and I decided to try this class last night. Rahul is a fantastic instructor, with a British accent to top it all off. He combines intricate footwork, hand movements, and head nods to give you a heart-racing cardiovascular workout. With or without athletic kicks, you'll be jumping and dancing your way to a newer you. Great music, great energy, and great moves. Wednesday nights at 8p.m.

Tonight, I'm seeing what these free concerts at the Santa Monica Pier have to offer. Apparently, they're great. Tomorrow night, A.O.C. Cheers!

"I'm Not Josie Grossie Anymore!"

The Buffalo burger with truffle fries at Josie

I ate at Josie the other night for my uncle's birthday. Located on Pico and 25th, you would never know that a fine dining restaurant is located amidst the old buildings in Santa Monica. When you're inside the restaurant, you feel like you're in someone's living room; cool green walls and crown moulding, comfy couch-like booths with pillows, and few tables create an intimate feel. They offer a prix fixe menu, which includes an appetizer, entree and dessert, that is well worth the $45 if you like the chosen items. I was not a fan of what the prix fixe had to offer, so I opted for the buffalo burger with truffle fries. Oh...my...goodness. Delicious! My burger was lean, juicy, and HUGE (that's what she said), topped with gruyere cheese, caramelized onions and foie gras, and neither the burger nor fries needed ketchup. As an appetizer to the appetizers, we all got a complimentary slice of a gruyere cheese, mushroom and spinach quiche that was out of this world. Everything was delicious, from the goat cheese tart and bibb salad appetizers, to the buffalo burger and Brittany Salt-Crusted Jidori Chicken Breast, to the rich chocolate bread pudding and apricot tarte tatin for dessert. Don't expect to get out cheap. With appetizers, entrees, desserts, and wine, this place will set you back about $50 per person. Josie may not be a let's-go-grab-a-bite-to-eat type of a place, but I highly recommend it for a nice night out, if you can afford it.

Hip Chick WV

And this was just the rehearsal dinner

Hi, y'all! I'm back from the east coast, currently detoxing from a week filled with biscuits, beer, Moon Pies, Buttery Nipples, red velvet cake, Moonshine, cornbread muffins, and a whole lot of humidity and bug bites. I'm pretty sure I went into culture shock in Hurricane, WV, the minute we stopped off at Taco Bell for our first meal. Little did I know that Taco Bell is in the heart of Putnam County, WV, backed by an Arby's, KFC, and the largest Walmart I've ever seen in my life (did you know that they sell produce?!). As you drive down the street, everyone waves to you, no one honks, and the lush green acres house big, beautiful homes for less than half the price of a two-bedroom house in the San Fernando Valley. Let me tell you, though, as much as I am a city girl, being in the country for a week truly made me feel like I was on vacation. I was surrounded by wonderful people, soaked up the sun, ate like there was no tomorrow, and remembered the importance of taking a deep breath and appreciating the simple things in life. Allow me to share with you some of the trip's delectable highlights:

The Runion-Hayes House:

Talk about your southern hospitality! I stayed with the groom's parents for half of the time, then moved to the happy couple's abode for the latter half of my trip. Never once did I feel like I was on someone else's territory, for these people truly defined mi casa es su casa. A fridge filled with fresh meats, cheeses, and an abundance of leftovers, dinners and brunches decked out with breakfast pastries, mac 'n' cheese, mashed potatoes, baked beans, and massive hunks of steak, and a variety of cheesecakes that would reward a hefty chunk of change if sold at a bakery. If all people were as hospitable as southern folk, we wouldn't have to spend so much on alternate accommodations. Many thanks again to all members of the Runion, Hayes, and Runyon-Hayes families!

Tudor's Biscuit World

Wow. These biscuits are probably baked in butter. Salty, dense, filling, and totally worth the calories...well, only if you indulge once a week. I had mine after a late night out and, even though my friend spilled water on the table and on my biscuit, I still ate it. A must-try when on the east coast.

Famous Dave's

Hands down the best cornbread muffin I've ever had. Sweet, scrumptions, and tasty with or without butter. Kudos to Scott for introducing me to these bad boys, and I just learned that this restaurant is dispersed throughout southern California. Who'da thunk?

Cracker Barrel

Apparently this restaurant is famous in the south. I went to brunch here with some new and old friends and was really hoping for a healthy breakfast option. Oh how excited was I to see oatmeal on the menu! When Flo walked over, she burst not only my healthy bubble but also my friend's vegetarian bubble by telling us that neither oatmeal nor veggie griddles were continued at the Cracker Barrel. WHAT?! I had to settle for a salad with iceberg lettuce...ugh. Whoop dee doo. Everyone else's meals looked like delicious heart attacks on plates, which I would have devoured instantaneously had I not been so gluttonous the previous four days.

Taste of Asia

We ate here with the newlyweds on our last night in WV. When you walk into the restaurant, you have your choice of hibachi on the right and regular dining on the left. This place truly gives you a taste of Asia: Thai, Chinese, Japanese, oh my! A little bit of something for everyone. I was pleasantly surprised with this restaurant, and my Panang curry was sweet, creamy, and loaded with chicken and veggies. Thumbs-up, Hurricane! I'll be seeing you during my next visit, fo' shizz.

What else can I say about West Virginia? If you can't stand the humidity, get out of the forest.

"Go Shorty, it's ya birthday."

Dear Hot's,

I'll take the mussels and ahi tuna appetizers, followed by one salmon teriyaki taco and one unagi taco. Yeah...that sounds about right.

*Images are much smaller than they appear in real life.

I apologize, for it's been a while since my last blog. When it rains, it pours, and I've been blessed with an influx of sub and assistant work through the end of this school year, followed by a summer job at CSUN's summer enrichment program. Needless to say, I've been busy, although it's all good things that have come my way. Despite my hectic schedule, the Hip Chick still lives, and I come bearing reviews of restaurants and classes of new and old:

As some of you know, I turned 27 on June 8. I am so fortunate to have so many loving friends and family who made my birthday so special, filled with laughter, love, good food, buttercream-topped cakes, and a buttload of birthday wishes. As a part of the birthday festivities, one of my best friends planned a dinner for my nearest and dearest at Kung Pao Kitty, located on Hollywood Blvd., just west of Cahuenga.

Kung Pao Kitty 6445 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028

Located in the heart of Hollywood, Kung Pao Kitty boasts an old world vibe with a modern twist, dark red lights and a full bar. You can find all of your favorite Chinese eats, topped off with a basket of fortune cookies to be passed around the table at the end of your meal. There were about 15 of us and we ordered family style. Really, everything we ordered was awesome. Since I didn't do the ordering, I can't list the massive amount of items we consumed, but I remember the cashew and sesame chicken being excellent, as well as the fried tofu, cream cheese wontons, and salt 'n' pepper prawns. We also ordered "adult" beverages and the total bill, evenly split, including tip (and the birthday girl's meal) came to $25 per person. Me likey. The one complaint we had was that the "adult" beverages were quite weak for their stiff Hollywood price tag.

*Word of advice: DO NOT PARK ON THE STREET!! Well worth it to pay $8 for valet over the risk of getting not one, but TWO parking tickets (sorry, Stepha).

Hot's Cantina In the shopping center at Devonshire and Reseda, Northridge

All this talk about Hot's and I still had yet to try it. Although I'm partial to the city, my weeks are spent deep in the San Fernando Valley. If any of you recall that episode of Entourage where it's the opening of "Aquaman" and the boys go to Northridge to watch it, you may recall, at the end of the episode, that Johnny Drama says the valley "isn't that bad" (despite the excessive heat and rolling blackouts). I do love the valley (c'mon, I was born and raised here!) and one of my favorite new things about the SFV is Hot's Cantina. This restaurant, with its blacked-out windows in the middle of a strip mall, is truly the definition of a hidden gem. Come expecting tasty appetizers, exotic tacos, a full bar, and a happy tummy when you're stuffed to the brim. Although the tacos aren't cheap, running $6-$12 a pop, they're HUGE and one or two should fill you up sufficiently. This spot is great for groups and a great place to watch sports -- they even have tv's in front of the restaurant if you decide to eat outside. A must try if you brave to drive over the hill.

Lola's Home of the BEST apple martini, 945 N. Fairfax Ave., WeHo

Lola's is a great spot for drinks, as well as an awesome date spot. Young professionals, deliciously fruity martinis (apple, pear, cantaloupe, yadda yadda yadda), and a very laid-back, loungey and classy feel. The food is GREAT, yet very pricey, so if you have the money go balls out, or else save the food for a special occasion. Oh, they do have "Wine and Dine" Sundays and Mondays, happy hour, and this AWESOME deal on Wednesday nights where for $23 you get a martini, an appetizer, and an entree (limited menu with good options). Count...me...IN!

Astroburger 7475 Santa Monica Blvd., WeHo

What more can I say about Astroburger? I think they need to put my picture up on the wall. The best late night dining spot. I bring friends, I run into friends, I make new friends. The grilled cheese is amazing (so simple...yet so delicious) and their chocolate shake is not to be missed. Cash only. Call me after you try it and tell me how much you love me for introducing you to it. Don't worry, I won't let it go to my head.

West Hollywood 24 Hour Fitness 8612 Santa Monica Blvd., WeHo

Now I've definitely ripped the Friday Turbo Kick instructor, Anthony B., a new a-hole in past blogs. He runs his mouth about rotator cuff surgery, the "correct" way to punch, and says the word "test" into his mic every five minutes in annoyingly OCD fashion. So you might expect that I wasn't too thrilled about my decision to try his class yet again on Friday night. I had no motivation to hop on a treadmill, so I figured I'd give his class another shot. Friends, let me tell you, Anthony B. redeemed himself! Hallelujah! My ass burned at least 800 calories in that cardio-packed hour. It was a regular kickboxing class that night, not Turbo Kick, and he gave us drills that would send many people straight to the Gay Pride-ridden streets. Squats that burn out your thighs, speed bags to make your shoulders go numb, and running sprints that make you question if your legs are still attached to your body. He still gave his rotator cuff and punching shpiel, topped with incessant "test test tests," but an instructor who says: "Follow her, she's really good," to the big buff man behind me and refers to me as sexy as the puddles of sweat drip down my speed-bagging arms, can't be all that bad.

Well, friends, I'm off to West Virginia. Imma gonna be a bridesmaid in one of my best friend's weddings; the first wedding I've ever been in! Will the Hip Chick return with West Virginian adventures? Do adventures even exist in West Virginia?? I sure hope so...

I Don't Date (818)

This past weekend was one of my rare weekends spent in the San Fernando Valley.  My weekends are usually dedicated to time with my brother and friends in the city, since it offers much more excitement than lil' old suburbia.   There's just something special about making that trip over the hill (a.k.a. Laurel Canyon): the Sunset Strip, the crowds, the city lights, honking at S.A.M.F.'s (ask my dad for the definition) who can't comprehend LA driving.  I love it, and soak it up as much as possible.

Last Saturday night, after the decision to remain in my valley home (Aunt Sherry and Uncle Lloyd's), my friend and I grabbed some dinner at Senor Fred, in between Sherman Oaks and Studio City, before heading out for another friend's party at the Copper Bucket.  I had heard bits and pieces about Senor Fred, "It's good but expensive," or "There's a lively bar crowd."   Regardless of having to pay for a pricey dinner on a substitute's salary, I believe it's well worth it to spend hard-earned cash on a damn good meal.  To my dismay, my chicken mole enchiladas were rather nasty.  The chicken was oh-so-dry, the tortillas were corn (ick) - not flour, and the pinto beans were bland.  I should have sent the plate back, although sometimes I am nice and keep to myself and figured I'd save the smack talk for the blog.  My meal (w/tip) was $19, and I would MUCH rather have paid $3 more for the five-course authentic Mexican deliciousness over at the Gardens of Taxco.  Shame on you, Senor Fred.  The bar was pretty crowded, although only fun if you root for Team Cougar.  No amount of alcohol could make me bat for the olds.  I'm about to turn 27, not 72.  I'd like to still maintain my dignity and non-gold-digging image, even if I'm the one paying for my drinks.

After dinner, we hopped on the 101N (well, west, technically), exited at White Oak, and hung a Louie onto beautiful Vanowen, landing us at ye ol' Copper Bucket.  Now I don't consider myself a bar snob...eh, well, not completely?  I tend to bitch if I'm outside of my city bubble on a weekend night and I find it inconvenient to drive 20 minutes to a bar ("Everywhere in LA takes twen-ty minutes!"  Anyone?) when I can hop in a cab or walk down the street to a local WeHo favorite.  

I avoid Hollyweird at all costs, hate lines, and hate the D-bags that move to LA to look cool while standing in these lines.  So even though the bars I frequent aren't necessarily "dive" bars, they're populated with many laid back locals who also avoid the "scene."  I was intrigued to check out this Copper Bucket place, especially because the birthday girl, Marisa, is the only person I let manipulate my hair and by far one of the coolest chicks I know.  The Copper Bucket, in my opinion, is more rust than copper.  Definitely a local crowd, some of which look a bit shady (according to my friend, the elderly gentleman behind her was feeling himself up when she caught a glance of him).  I will hand it to this place, though -- no hassle getting in, personalized mini pitchers of beer, shuffle board, darts, pool, and head-bashing music blaring on the Juke Box.  This is definitely not my scene, although I know many people who would appreciate the Bucket's aura.  There's just something that sets me off from a bar whose lights are brighter than those in my bedroom.  Drinking or not, I don't want to see those bright lights until last call sends me to Astro or Mel's.  

Speaking of Mel's, did I tell you who I saw there?  Mr. Ron Jeremy and his friend Dennis from the Bunny Ranch.  G-d help me if I knew who this Dennis man was, and I recognized RJ from other LA sightings (sorry, friends, I haven't seen his work) and my one-and-only Plus One who pointed him out.  Even though these men are rather scuzzy and RJ looks a lot like the Penguin from Batman Returns, they did give us a good laugh.  People kept going up to their table trying to talk to them and Dennis flashed us (yes, us) his girlfriend's tushie on the walk out.  

...gotta love this city...