L.A. Eats.

Memorable meals from my trip to L.A. included a "New York breakfast sandwich" from Joan's on Third (still one of my all-time favorite L.A. eateries), a baked Meyer lemon custard pancake from Canelé (many thanks to Kathy for the recommendation), and tacos from Loteria at the Grove. 

I also paid a visit to the much talked-about Sprinkles Cupcake ATM, which didn't disappoint. Did you know it sings?

But of course, home-cooked meals were the highlight. One night during my stay, I asked my mom to teach me how to make a Japanese chicken and egg dish called oyako-don, which is one of my favorites. As I've mentioned before, she's an amazing cook who makes everything look effortless. I did my best, but I'm not sure I'll be able to recreate it quite as well on my own!

Anyhow, it was fun to help. The dogs enjoyed my lesson, too. 

Thank you again to those of you who so kindly offered recommendations for my trip! I didn't have time to do everything, but I'm keeping a list for next time. On my future agenda: Huckleberry Cafe, Tavern, Chego, Proof Bakery, Sweet Rose Creamery, and Bottega Louie. Can't wait to visit again soon!

Laurel Canyon Love.

I'm minutes away from boarding a red-eye flight back to New York City, but in honor of a wonderful week home in Los Angeles, I thought I'd share one of my brother Max's recent projects - it's one of my very favorites to date. It's a home tour on the fabulous website Freunde von Freunden (if you haven't checked it out, do!), and it profiles the beautiful Laurel Canyon abode of creative couple Ai and Cedric Bihr - who are pretty easy on the eyes themselves.

The images capture so many things I love about LA - the light, the greenery, the easygoing lifestyle. I've pasted a few of my favorite shots below, but you can see the full post - complete with interview by Aya Muto - on Freunde von Freunden, here. Enjoy!

Photos by Max Wanger. Via Freunde von Freunden.