Dates by Kate

Poutine Pursuits

2011-01-14T07:38:00.000-08:00

Again, being new to the Portland area, I'm learning about the local cuisine. Voodoo Donuts, Brewery Fresh Beer, and apparently Poutines. Poutines are Canadian concoctions of French Fries, Cheese Curds, and Gravy to which your nutritionist says no but my beau says HELL YES.

There are several resources for Poutine greatness (which must be derived from the French "Putain" which means something your cholesterol says to you as you're inhaling the delicioutude that the Poutine holds.) The resource I used for the following information is: Portlandpoutine.com. They know poutines and I am using their website to choose where we're going tonight (instead of the Opera).

POUTINE RULES
Best eaten hot (nothing gets mushy)
Pairs best with beer

CONDENSED POUTINE GUIDE
Your First Time: Potato Champion"The fries are excellent, and there are plenty of cheese curds plopped on top. The gravy though, is strange. It’s oniony and tart."
*Lamb Poutine: Lincoln (Happy Hour only)
"There was a lot of ultra-tender bites of meat, with hearty, well bodied, and dare I say soulful gravy. The curds appeared to be cheddar and the fries were up to snuff "
Canada Day Go To: Victory Bar
"The excellent french fries, chunks of melty cheddar. The bacon gravy rested mostly at the bottom the plate, but morsels of thick cut bacon remained atop the fries and cheddar."

*Skanky and Cheesy: Savoy Tavern and Bistro
Resembles fondue. Not for want of Cheese. "The gravy was tasty and well seasoned...fries were crispy"

NW Best Poutine: Laurelwood NW Publichouse
"The small was plenty. The french fries are a mix of sizes and crispinesses, the cheese curds are plentiful and cheddary, and the Mother Lode Golden Ale Gravy is delicious. This is one of the better poutines in town."
Best Vegetarian Gravy: Hawthorne Hophouse
Meaty and Herby without the meat
Delicious and Unorthodox: Papa Haydn
"Topped with parmesan cheese, not cheese curds. And the chicken gravy contained spinach....Kennebeck fries...The gravy, though it could have handled a bit more seasoning, had the right viscosity – it clung nicely to the fries. It also contained chunks of perfectly moist pulled chicken.
C Bar: SE Poutines
Topped with collard greens. The fries, seasoned with salt and smoked paprika (aka vegan bacon), are crisp and smoky.
Classiest: Irving Street Kitchen
Delicious "Uniform bricks of golden yellow fries, and a light, dare I say, dainty white cheese sauce...like a piece of art on a plate....The gravy had the authenticity and heft of duck fat." (Not on the regular menu) KNOTE: Also apparently they have a butterscotch pudding that looks amazing
Cheapest: Jolly Roger (East)
$3! "Damn good, The fries were the weak point of this poutine. Gravy was damn close to typical Quebec poutine sauce (sticky, brown, and salty)." Looks mostly like cheese fries but I trust these guys reviews

Cold Date Does and Don'ts

2011-01-07T17:00:00.000-08:00

Date Night!

I'm back ya'll and after a brief hiatus in France, I am actually staying in Portland, OR for a bit. Being in Portland I'm learning about "Cold Dates" which I've always theoretically liked but in practice found that I was really cold and even the warmth of my beau, I was forced to stand next to the 7-11 hotdog warmer until I could feel my hands again.

I am slowly learning how to date in this weather, so let's begin.

DON'T wear inappropriate clothing for the weather: Coats always, Pant's Probably. Your date will think you are an idiot if you didn't know it was cold in Portland....at night...in the snow.
DON'T rely on cheap stocking: They don't keep you warm when it's actually cold, only in Beverly Hills in the Summer.
DO Layer Inappropriate Clothing: For new years I wore my cute black dress with black tights, bright blue long underwear, black UnderArmour. No-One could see the difference.
DO Remove Extra Layers in the Powder Room: Learn by Doing. I would have discreetly changed out of the extra layers in the powder room if there wasn't such a line and the Waitress hadn't caught me undressing in the closet...Cold Date Faux Pas.
DO Bring an umbrella: I know it's not cool to use an umbrella in Portland. It's not cool to walk in LA. I get it. However, Umbrellas = Longterm Dryness and Warmth.
DO Bring a Layer Bag: Rookie mistake. Bring a tasteful GIANT bag to keep your stupid layers in so you don't look like such an idiot every time you walk into ANYWHERE.

Burger Dates in Portland

2011-01-07T16:43:00.000-08:00

Being new to the area, and a cheeseburger Connoisseur, I am always hot to try the burgers of the region (Bourguignon...Burgernion). Upon searching for datey options I came upon: The Portland Burger Blog. I love when blogspotters get big!

THE DATE
1. You and your date should independently review the site in advance and come together with your top three options. Kiss it out, determine the couple favorite and head over there.
2. Arrive at the location, ask the waiter for their most popular item and evaluate. (Low Fat Alternative: Have a salad and split the burger so you can both taste the goodness).
3. If you decide to do this as a regular activity, fun albeit fattening, I recommend perhaps once a week or every couple of weeks. Keep track of your favorite. Compete. Enjoy!

RomanTric: Yamashiro on le Cheap

2010-05-09T23:46:00.000-07:00

Apparently at Yamashiro, they have a complementary movie night every Wednesday. In case you're wondering, Yamashiro, is known as one of the most expensive and incredibly delicious restaurants in LA. And I'm looking at the menu and it isn't HORRIBLE, I mean $13 for awesome rolls and $30 Seared Ahi Tuna. It isn't that bad. In any case, the date:

1. Go to Yamashiro and get a couple too expensive, of course delicious rolls

2. Watch the movie in their garden. Shrek is playing May 19 and May 26 is Sex and the City.

Sounds incredible, let me know how it is, I'm going to try and make it.
More about the movies: http://www.yamashirorestaurant.com/movies.html

-Kate

Remembering Dates: Good Lovey Dovey Ideas

2010-05-06T15:16:00.000-07:00

Here's an idea, apparently you can create your own Search Story online. You put in a bunch of search questions that ultimately add up to some highly weepy conclusion. My idea for one of these is to describe the times up until the point where you decided to ask them out for real. It's a cute idea. Will totally make you cry. Go for it: http://tinyurl.com/searchstory10

Sushi Dates: Sushi Etiquette

2010-05-04T10:12:00.000-07:00

from: http://tinyurl.com/yhwaf3k

Date #24: Grilled Cheese & Anaconda Night: A Date that's Easy and Cheesy

2010-05-03T10:25:00.000-07:00

THE PROBLEM
Now I'm not complaining but there is definitely a certain amount of "Home-Ec" I missed out on in high school that has resulted in a declined capacity to...play housewife [although I play scrabble and soccer very well]. Unfortunately, we are now in this epic zeitgeist where cooking is cool: it's Bourdain, it's the cooking channel, it's something you're going to have to do on a date eventually.
THE SOLUTION
Although I do recommend learning to cook [Old Town Cooking School Date] there is an easy, albeit cheesy, romantic solution to the microwave-tv-dinner problem. So I introduce: The Grilled Cheese night.

GOOD FOR
Third dates: Perhaps a home visit.
YOU NEED
1. Stovetop/Panini Maker: You will be mocked if you use a microwave.
2. Wheat bread: No panini maker, go with sliced bread
3. Cheese: Can't go wrong with kraft singles (my mom would kill me), chevre noir is a fancy goat cheese that's cheddared I recommend it for grilled cheeses so good.
4. Butter or olive oil: use this to lubricate the bread for grilling (butter is always better)
5. Wine and beer and your favorite dessert of your youth
6. Accoutrements: there are several different ingredients that can go on grilled cheese. I like sliced tomatos, others like bacon and pickles. have several options to customize.
6. Aprons: sexiest apron, men and women, is the half apron that goes from your waist down like chefs wear, hell yeah.
7. An awful movie: I recommend Anaconda or Zombieland

THE DATE: GRILLED CHEESE NIGHT
1. Invite your date over to your home tell them to bring their favorite childhood snacks .
2. Prepare ingredients, clean up your damn house, prepare roommates, light some candles.
3. When your date arrives you already have on your apron. Pop the cork, have them sit. Ask what they would like on the sandwich (show the accoutrements) and watch you put ingredients together and grill em. Chat about the favorite foods of your youth: Gushers, Snickers, Black Licorice (ew).
4. Finish the sandwiches, and sit down by the tv giggle about burning them insensitively, pop some gummi worms and watch your awful movie. Put your hand on their leg, put your arm around their shoulders. Anaconda will take care of the rest.

GRILLED CHEESE RESOURCES:
http://www.grilledcheeseacademy.com/
http://allrecipes.com/Recipes/Main-Dish/Sandwiches-and-Wraps/Grilled-Cheese-Sandwiches/ViewAll.aspx

The Grand Return: The Corsage

2010-05-02T10:36:00.001-07:00

THE CORSAGE
Although proms and 1950's dates have been the norm The Corsage is making it's way back into the dating scene. Corsages are flowers that come on elastic for your wrist (like the ones your mom made you get your girlfriend for prom). It's a great way to give a girl flowers on the cheap. They sell them at Vons and Ralphs for 4 dollars and at any Florist.

WHAT KINDS OF FLOWERS
Roses are fine. I like a single big orchid or a gardenia. Under no circumstances are you allowed to have CARNATIONS.

WHO WANTS A CORSAGE
Women that appreciate flowers, old stuff, swing dancing, vintage or who don't get romantic things very often. I think all women secretly want them. Mean girls probably don't like corsages.

WHEN TO GIVE A CORSAGE
I suggest bringing a corsage to spice up a mundane evening (3rd date?). Maybe you're just going to the movies. Maybe you're just going to Jamba Juice or a comedy show. It's a cute way to show you care and a smart way to get your girl to show you off.

Date #23: Eww Groooooosssss: A Tidepool Date

2010-04-30T09:43:00.000-07:00

TIDEPOOLS
Tidepools are rocky pools of water on ocean beaches that fill with anemones, mysterious little crabs, and beautiful shells. They are all over the coast of California.

THE DATE THEORY
If you were raised in Southern California, you were inevitably dragged to visit the tidepools by teacher/mother/stupid little sister. But as we grew up, we forgot about these incredible micro-ecological delights and just realized their romantic potential.

THE DATE
Hit up one of many tidepool locations in the SoCal area. I purposely used this kid-website because the tidepools are more approachable and probably safer than others. These stretch from LA County to Orange County. I'm a big fan of the tidepools at Strands in Orange County. But there also incredible tidepools near Paradise Cove (which also has parking).

WEAR
Your date should be prepared to get a little damp...When they inevitable stick their leg into an anemone nest. Make sure you're both prepared with sweaters and sneakers (I could never walk on the rocks in flip flops). Bring flip flops for the sand. Good bandelero purse for the ladies (or dolphins can steal your ipod)

ZIP LOCK BAGS
great idea to store your expensive phones, keys while you dip in and out of the rocky terrain.

TO DO
Walk around on the rocks, point out the grossest animals you can find. Poke some anemones (I don't know which ones bite...poison..sting..kick...be careful). Say eww gross. It's a great opportunity to see how much your date can cowboy up. Find a shell to share. Whoever finds a starfish first doesn't have to pay for gellato.

SUNSET
As the tide comes in your tidepools generally disappear. Enjoy a sunset together, hold hands, make sand castles (mine always come out dirty). Kisses by the beach are always a little saltier, but somehow a little sweeter.

So you've decided to invite your date over to your appartment

2010-04-28T11:35:00.000-07:00

There gets to be a time in a dating situation where someone goes to someone's house (apartment, dorm.) This may be because you're cooking, you want to watch a movie or..you know. This is a serious part in dating affairs and doesn't have to lead to sex, particularly the first time they come to your house.

The first time your dating interest comes to your house you want them to feel comfortable.
So take care.

1. Clean the damn place.
How your mom would clean it...FOR REAL. Dirty houses are really awful (clean couch, clean floor, clean sheets). Apparently candles are a sexy way to get rid of that smell (you know what I'm talking about).

2a. Warn your roommates (be they your best friends or your parents).
You want to let them know you're having company and set boundaries with them if you need. For instance, if you want to watch Anaconda with your beau you do not want your flouncy (often drunk) room-mate Lisa crawling all over your man. Give her 10 bucks for a movie or another cosmo. Tell her you need the living room. Tell her you need her to be scarce.
or
2b. Prepare for your beau to meet your roommates (be they best friends or parents).
If you're younger, it's appropriate for them to all meet. It's sort of a big step but it's never as weird as you think it's going to be (unless Lisa's your mom, eek).
3. Going into your room
If you live in a dorm it gets difficult. Often the only place to sit is the bed. This can feel really uncomfortable. Make an effort to get a couch that fits at least 2 people. Oh and I better not find out you didn't clean your room.

4. Clean your sheets
Doesn't matter if they're getting into them or not. Sheets smell up a room no matter what. Clean em for good measure (and good luck).

Date #22: Wurstküche (Not pronounced in a way that will offend her)

2010-04-16T11:43:00.001-07:00

Wurstküche is the hottest dog place in Los Angeles right now. They have a gorgeous GORGEOUS array of sausages from Bratwurst to Filipino Marharlika. Here's the plan:

TIMING
Definitely a Great Datey Experience for Late at Night. After a fancy show at the Walt Disney Hall it's a fun way to mix it up.

PARKING: UGLY PLACE, LOTS OF SPOTS!
Although it looks pretty terrifying near Wurstküche just park close if the area makes you nervous. The scariest people there are NoHo Hipsters with creeper mustaches, "Creepsters" if you will. In any case, it may make your date nervous (it's in the heart of the Toy District) but its pretty innocuous.

THE WAIT
Because the restaurant portion is pretty loud, the major portion of your date here will be in line. It's a good opportunity to cruise the menu, ask about Beer preferences (they have a great selection of Belgian Beers) and talk about which animals you're interested in eating today. Rattlesnake, Buffalo, Pig or Monkey**.

SAUSAGE TRIVIA
Waiting in line can be tedious for any couple, here are some little facts to get you through the standing part of the evening. Here's my Portuguese Sausage Story if you need material, leads into some good international animal name play.
• Sausages are mentioned in The Odyssey which was written by Homer more than 2,700 years ago.
• Sausages were called bangers during the Second World War because they contained so much water they exploded when fried.
• More sausages are eaten on Saturday than any other day.

THE PLACE
So delicious, bring a pen and draw on the long papered tables, write little valentines and Hot Dog wishes. The restaurant is biggest in the back and you'll probably sitting next to all kinds of people from Los Angeles.

THE TASTE
Magnificent. I adore the "Rabbit, Veal & Pork Seasoned with White Wine" but you could definitely be adventurous and show off a little. Unfortunately everything with Rattlesnake and Alligator isn't that awesome, do you want to show off at the risk of not eating your food. That's lame.* Don't miss the fries and as many of the sauces that sound good to you. I'm talking, Tzatziki, Curry Ketchup, Bleu Cheese Walnut and Bacon.
SAUSAGE LINKS
Here are some good resources if you want to know more about those little tubes of delicious...whatevers.

*Ignore anything with Alligator or Rattlesnake not very delicious.
**Seasonal...***

*** It's more of an Orangutan...****
**** Maybe it's human...*****
***** They're so like us...******
****** No monkey at Wurstküche...*******
******* ...This time of year.

Flowers: Don't buy carnations

2010-04-15T10:42:00.000-07:00

Flowers?
YES: flowers
NO: Carnations

WHAT ARE CARNATIONS
Carnations are flowers that represent death and cheapness. If you're buying flowers, buy any other one. If you're buying a bouquet, ask the florist (or a woman) if there are carnations in it. I expect you to google it on your own.

TIP: Carnations are flowers with petals with Bart Simpson Hair edges. Don't buy them

Date Idea #21: Laughgasms in Laughing Yoga

2010-04-14T12:17:00.000-07:00

DATE THEORY
Some dates can be awkward.
Laughing yoga starts awkward.
But eventually, you're having such a good time that the rush of all the laughter results in riotous making out (with your date of course). It's worth a try: perhaps as a first date if you're sick of the usual internal laughter and awkwardness.

LAUGHING YOGA
Essentially, for an hour you are forced to laugh through non-physically strenous "hee hee, haa haa" exercises. At first, it's completely awkward (knowing this in advance is key), but suddenly it actually becomes funny and you're laughing for real. The result is giggly fits of refreshing and revitalizing giggly giggles.

CAUTION
1. Dates should be told about this in advance.
2. JUMP OUT OF YOUR HEAD: Forget your every day and decide to have a good time for an hour. I noticed that closing my eyes creeped me out a little bit, opening up and watching your colleagues laugh their faces off totally helps.
3. TOUCHING: There are parts of the class where people tap you on the back and even massage (as part of an exercise). If you or your date are uncomfortable with this, feel free to step out of those exercises and continue laughing on the sidelines.

THE DATE
1. Find a local laughing yoga group. All the Laughter Yoga Groups in LA Area
2. Take your date to the event. Stretch a little bit, say hello to the others (establish you're on a date), maybe tell some jokes.
3. Get into it. Laugh and be creeped out at first and then really start to dig it. There are a couple key points where you're told to close your eyes and laugh. I found this uncomfortable, I decided to open my eyes and watch the people around the circle laughing and it was HILARIOUS.
4. Finish the session with some high fives and head to a local burger joint and a milkshake (Johnny Rockets)

Wednesday Date: Doughnut Shoppe at Grace

2010-02-17T12:52:00.000-08:00

Grace Donuts: Made of Diamonds and Cookie Dough
Okay, for an exorbitant amount every Wednesday you can head over to Grace and grab a dozen of the best doughnuts apparently anyone has ever had. I'm talking chocolate chip cookie dough or butterscotch.

Krispy Kreme Donuts: Made of Hard Work and Cheap-Unnameable-ButWhoReallyCares-Ingredients
If this doesn't work for you, and it really shouldn't (cough, cough $18/dozen), I would hit up an old classic: Krispy Kreme. The Donuts are Divine. The Coffee is Decent. And you have a fabulous time without the fabulous price.

Grab a half dozen and sit on a rock somewhere and tell her how cute her butt is.

Girls love that stuff,
You're going down in History,
Kate

GRACE
323-934-4400
7360 Beverly Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90036-2501

KRISPY KREME LA
4034 Crenshaw Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90008-2533
(323) 291-4133

KRISPY KREME BURBANK
1521 North Victory Place
Burbank, CA 91502
(818) 955-9015

Date #20: Year of the Tiger...RAARWWWR: Chinese New Year Date

2010-02-17T12:10:00.001-08:00

This is the year of the Tiger, a strong year according to my stylist and a delicious opportunity for a date of any sort. In Los Angeles there are plenty of places to celebrate and brilliant things to do in our own China Town.

1. Head into Los Angeles China Town
You can do this either by car or by Metro (there is a stop in China Town). I recommend staying off the train at night but street parking is nonsense. China Town is good during the day.

2. Dim Sum Action
The best place in China town for some epic Dim Sum is Empress Pavillon. It's a good starting point at the most northern part of town. Watch what you grab because it can get pricey. You can decide what you're going to order in advance with Appetizers According to your Zodiac Sign. But don't limit yourself to eating like a rabbit when your tiger wants pork. Besides, it never hurts to know what you're getting in advance to look like a Dim Sum Genius. (How to Order Dim Sum).

3. Fly out the Door for Dessert
As you leave Dim Sum, go down the adjacent southern alley to Phoenix Bakery (be careful!). Phoenix Bakery is the go to for Dessert in China Town. When you arrive order a couple of pieces of the Strawberry Cake (for there or to go). It's heaven (my parents ate it at their wedding) so kiss a little off her lips for a fine dessert indeed.

4. It's not the Lay See Dao Loy, It's the Stuff
It is easy to bedazzle your beau/belle with inexpensive/traditional things around China Town. Head south to the gift stores (They're all good) for Parasols, Jade Bracelets and Tiger Things. Lots of Red. I adore my parasols (I have two) which I keep in my car for a sunny day or to appear smugger than usual. Men like Katanas and NumChucks (which are generally available regardless of Origin around town). Have fun and don't touch any of the little turtles.

Empress Pavillon
988 North Hill Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(323) 230-4522

Phoenix Bakery
969 N Broadway
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(213) 628-4642

Valentines dates 2010

2010-02-13T16:30:00.000-08:00

Here is a potential wine tour/selection of totally delightful restaurants for valentines dates in Pasadena. I know Many of you are looking for something in Los Angeles but Pasadena is romantic and delicious. Hit up Stats too for some adorable Christmas tree room make out time.

Bisoux!

Kate

VERTICAL WINE BAR

(626) 795-3999

Vertical Wine Bar is a gorgeous bar that has a slew of beautiful wine choices. It's a really sexy, oak and warm bistro. Grab a little appetizer, drink a nip and chat up your date .

CREME DE LA CREPE

36 W. Colorado Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91105

I recommended this earlier, it's got a good wine bar and James is my hero. Have some fondue it's pretty cheap and gratifying. Warning: if you drop your bread in the cheese you got to kiss your date (I will probably be there to enforce this).

RED WHITE AND BLUEZ

(626) 792-4441

Good alternate for CDLC, make your own cheese plates which I think is really cool. The owner was sort of rude to me and my mom when I was there. This is your call, I feel stupid not recommending it.

POP

626) 795-1295

Dessert and Champagne bar. Finish the evening with some bubbly and chocolate strawberries.

Email me with last minute Valentines questions and I'll try to get back to you!

Kate

Daily Date Feb 13: Nude Scavenger Hunt at the Getty

2010-02-05T20:15:00.000-08:00

WHAT: The Naked at the Getty Scavenger Hunt (Adults Only)
WHEN: Saturday, February 13 at 1:00, 4:30 pm
WHERE: The Getty Center Los Angeles
BUY TICKETS: Watson Adventures

ADDRESS
1200 Getty Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90049

My Sausage Story: Frog and Piggy

2010-02-05T12:20:00.000-08:00

Sausages are an international delight that can contain a virtual zoo of animal bits. Although it's generally best not to ask, I'm always a little curious.

My favorite sausage story came from when I was travelling in Portugal.

Upon reaching this gorgeous meaty restaurant in Porto, my friend Kimi and I were curious as to what was in the sausages. Little did we know that the following exercise was an excellent way to learn the names of animals in a foreign language.
I would draw a chicken, he would say galinha and shake his head
I would draw a horse, he would say cavalo and shake his head.
I would draw a frog, he would look at me funny, say rã and shake his head
And then I drew an octopus.
He then asked something to the effect of, "What the F kind of Sausages have you been eating in France"
I then explained, in sort of this mangled French/Latin/English/Italian, that I didn't know anything about Portugal. And what the hell else could be in the sausage?

He said merely, "carne de porco idiota"*
And I thought it was weird that I hadn't guessed pork before frog.

*In my mind, he actually couldn't have been nicer

2010-01-29T10:56:00.001-08:00

Paseo for sushi, Pasadena city hall, giggle abou at Pasadena library main branch

Pre valentines food truck festival date

2010-01-28T08:25:00.001-08:00

Date: February 13th

Event: 30+ food trucks will gather for no reason other than to celebrate cheap food at the Street Food Fest

Location: LA Center Studios downtown.

Description: it's a street food festival. The organizers promise to showcase a close-to-complete picture of street food in Los Angeles, from NoHo's longstanding Antojitos de Abuelita truck to Thai street food from the Wat Thai Temple to the shiny new kids on the block like the Flying Pig. Because this is coming from the home of Unique LA, there also will be pop-up Unique LA-esque booths, with local artists and designers selling their pre-Valentine's Day wares, if you are into that sort of thing. It's about time everyone got together for a little street party.

EDIT: Shawna tells us in the comments that there will be a donation-based cash beer and wine bar, the proceeds of which will support the Los Angeles Regional Foodbank. The event also will go to 5pm, not 4pm as originally planned. Sweet!! More time, more food!

The First Annual Street Food Fest is Saturday, February 13th from 11am to 4pm 5pm at the LA Center Studios (500 S. Beaudry Ave.). Because there's all this open air food, no doggies allowed. I know, total bummer.

From metroblog.com

Date idea tonight: Independent Movies in 3D!

2010-01-28T08:18:00.001-08:00

Last August, the L.A. 3-D Club participated in the Downtown Film Festival and presented an international program of 3-D shorts. Since then, the organization has worked on forming a partnership with the Downtown Independent Theater to provide a venue to show independent 3-D movies. Thanks to a generous silver screen donation from USC and the club's recent acquisition of a pair of large venue projectors, the theater is fully outfitted for 3-D.

Tonight, the L.A. 3-D Club's Movie Divisionis holding an "Open Screen 3-D Movie Night." Anyone is invited to bring their stereoscopic video content to add to the mix. The club will continue to curate monthly public screenings at the Downtown Independent. By the way, if you haven't checked out this theater yet, you are missing out. It's gorgeous and has a fun vibe.

LA3D Movie Division "Open Screen 3-D Movie Night" is TONIGHT!
Wednesday, January 27th, 2010, 8-11pm
Downtown Independent Theater
251 S. Main St., Los Angeles, CA 90012

Admission to the event is $10 at the theater box-office, free with USC Student ID. Paid parking is available at many lots in the area. The theater is about a 10 minute walk from the Pershing Square Red Line station.

See the event page on Facebook for details such as file formats if you'd like to submit material to screen.

Date #20: See Movies for $3

2010-01-24T10:35:00.000-08:00

The Academy Six is a movie theater in Pasadena that shows movies that have recently left the mainstream. The theaters have only started filling up as the economy tanked. Great way to see that $14 movie you weren't sure about for nothing.

PRICES
Matinee: $2
Evening (After 6pm): $3

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS
See a Movie after 6pm. 2 admissions, 2 popcorns and 2 sodas for $10.00 total!

Outdoor Alternatives in Los Angeles

2010-01-24T10:26:00.000-08:00

Caltech Campus
-Easy to park (watch time restraints)
-Beautiful gardens, romantic bridge
-Cannon (like a real cannon)
-Picnic Friendly

Lacy Park
-Stunning gardens
-Easyto park
-Roses and white trellises
-Picnic Friendly
-Go through the back entrance and it's free

Huntington Gardens
-Called the best place to kiss in LA
-Rainforest, JAPANESE tea garden
-Lame tea room
-No picnics homie.

Griffith Park
-Huge hiking
-Don't know about picnics

Date #19: Cooking for your date

2010-01-24T10:03:00.000-08:00

Date #19: Cooking for your date
I have recently become interested in the concept of cooking for your date. I'm aware that the best way to a man's heart is through his stomach. Also, this is one of the finest ways to make a woman's knees buckle. There are many ways to go about this and this sort of date can serve as either an early or a later in dates date. The three major factors you have to account for: (1) The Capacity to Cook. (2) The Set Up (3) The Menu.

THE CAPACITY TO COOK
This is tricky. I am stupid enough to be the daughter of the woman who owns Old Town Cooking School without really knowing how to cook. Going to the cooking school is a great date in and of itself. That's a good way to learn how to cook. Another method would be to go to Noble Pig. Noble Pig is a great website with simple recipes. I would suggest cheaply going about this (canned soups, whipped cream, cheese, wines) but you're better than that.

THE SET UP
YOUR HOUSE
You can either start cooking before they arrive or invite them to cook with you. Before they arrive set up the table. Add tealight candles for ambience, grab some flowers from the yard (no carnations).

ALTERNATIVES
Make a picnic in a park. Or take your date to the campus of Caltech. Other outdoor alternatives for romance.

LIVE WITH YOUR PARENTS:
Go to a park with the food. Set up the table in the backyard, try mid-day when your parents are at work. Or just tell them you're trying to do something special for your date and it would be really great if they could go out for the evening. Or Old Reliable: Give 'em $20 to go see Avatar for 14 hours.

THE MENU
The menu at the least should have an entree and a dessert and wine. If you're trying to be equal have them make the dessert. See the above websites for recipes. Old Town Cooking School has the option of making you a menu, I recommend it.

Date seeking

2010-01-23T20:42:00.000-08:00

Old school, 50's diner where you get served in your car. Johnny
rockets will suffice but they get pretty pissed everytime I drive
through. Considering it's located in the mall.

Date #18: Party with the Stars at the Griffith Observatory

2010-01-20T17:20:00.000-08:00

The Griffith Observatory is a classic Los Angeles Date if you can figure out the logistics. And luckily, every month the Griffith Observatory has a "Public Star Party." At these parties you and your date share bunches of telescopes to gaze at the sun, moon, planets and the stars in eachother's eyes.The event is free and happens every month.

The Observatory has hours other than that, and generally, is a pretty romantic place to check out. What people usually do is go at night (where the hours are shifty), but going first thing in the morning for a dog run is pretty pleasant as well. I'm not certain how safe it is, so definitely bring your date along for donuts. Donuts, should always be paired with star watching...even in the morning.

UPCOMING DATES

January 23
February 20
March 20
April 24
May 22
June 19
July 17
August 14
September 18
October 16
November 13
December 11

ADDRESS
http://www.griffithobs.org/pstarparties.html
2800 East Observatory Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90027-1299
(323) 660-7827

Date #17: Wine Bars in Pasadena

2010-01-20T14:55:00.000-08:00

THE DATE BY KATE PASADENA WINE TOUR
Okay, I know I'm recommending a lot of Pasadena Joints but it's a really lovely town to hang out in and date around. So take your pretty bum and co. around to these wine bars for a slightly tossed night on the town.

VERTICAL WINE BAR
(626) 795-3999
But Vertical Wine Bar is a gorgeous bar that has a slew of beautiful wine choices. It's a really sexy, oak and warm bistro. Grab a little appetizer, drink a nip and chat up your date .

CREME DE LA CREPE
36 W. Colorado Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91105
I recommended this earlier, it's got a good wine bar and James is my hero. Have some fondue it's pretty cheap and gratifying.

RED WHITE AND BLUEZ
(626) 792-4441
Good alternate for CDLC, make your own cheese plates which I think is really cool. The owner was sort of rude to me and my mom when I was there. This is your call, I feel stupid not recommending it.

POP
626) 795-1295
Dessert and Champagne bar. Finish the evening with some bubbly and chocolate strawberries.

MENAGE
Do not go into Menage. But by the time you're done drinking too much, you should take some time off.

Date #16: Mexican Restaurant Dates

2010-01-20T13:30:00.000-08:00

1. EL METATE
For a lunch date in Pasadena, El Metate is one of the least expensive, best quality Mexican restaurants I know. The tacos always cost under $3 and the food is really delicious.

12 N Mentor Ave
Pasadena, CA 91101
(626) 229-0706
http://www.yelp.com/biz/el-metate-pasadena

2. DONA ROSA
Taco tuesdays, great ambience, outside seating. The food isn't as good as El Metate and it's a little more expensive but it makes up for it with parking and physical appeal. This is a great late night spot in Pasadena.
577 South Arroyo Parkway
Pasadena, CA 91105-2519
(626) 449-2999

UNACCEPTABLE DATE: Melting Pot

2010-01-20T13:27:00.000-08:00

Terrible food, too expensive, not enough fun.

Date #15: Creme De La Crepe

2010-01-20T13:21:00.001-08:00

Pasadena Restaurant that is my current favorite! This is a great new restaurant in Old Town that is satisfactorily delicious, romantic and inexpensive. You'll find it down Mills Alley on the right as you come from Colorado. To begin, have a couple glasses of white wine. Although this is a French restaurant, the house California is lovely. Settle down with their $14 fondue for two (which is excellent), sit in a corner and have a little Snalk (Snog + Talk) over the low tones of delightful guests, jazzy jazz jazz and eachother's bated breath.

ADDRESS
35 w. colorado boulevard pasadena ca 91105
626.844.0007

HOURS
Sun-M 8a-10p
Fri-Sat 8a-1am

Awkward

2009-12-21T10:57:00.000-08:00

"This is Awkward"
"Some of the Best Things in the World Are Awkward"
-KS

DATE BY KATE #14: Winter WonderBra, A HoliDate

2009-12-20T08:35:00.000-08:00

The Balian Mansion is owned by an Ice Cream Family in Pasadena,
they light it up so gaudy and good.
Great for watching tourists and kids wave to baby Jesuses.

This is a Classic Pasadena Date especially because it's starting to get cold, you won't look so doofy in your scarf, coat and ugg boots...which still look doofy with that mini skirt, but I digress. Here is your Winter Wonder Date, see directions at the bottom.

YOUR DATE

1. HOLIDAY NOSH AT PASEO
Start the evening with a little nosh. Something warm and cozy. Although a little pasadena odd, I would like to suggest perhaps Paseo. Tokyo Wako is great for some sushi and a sake while the Yard House is good for a beer and a skanky burger. Go with Tokyo Wako, it's usually pretty quiet, big glass window romantic while remaining not as trashy as the Yard House.

2. GOOFY CHRISTMAS MOVIE
Trust me on this one. Hop right over to the Paseo movie theater and see some totally inane Christmas movie. Giggle over some Rudolph the G-Rated Nonsense. Grab some snowcaps or a slushy to meet the frosty mood....frosty here is code for sexy and actually funny enough to get you to part three.

3. Sip STARBUCKS
Get over to Starbucks at North Allen. Treat your date to some Cider or a Hot Chocolate to go, open her door (even if she's driving) and hop over to....

4. THE BALIAN MANSION
And Behold! The most gaudily decorated Christmas Mecca in the World. That's right! This Christmas Mansion, owned by the Altadena Ice Cream Family is complete with Christmas Trees, Christmas Dinosaurs, Baby Jesuses and the cutest tourists Pasadena has to offer. So take a walk around or have a seat and listen to the kids jeer the Christmas Stegosaurus, scream and wave at the Christian Saviour like a celebrity or their best friend.

DIRECTIONS

TO NORTH ALLEN STARBUCKS
Directions: Leave Paseo and go east on Colorado. Take a left on Allen (heading towards the mountains). At the corner of Allen and Washington. 1390 N Allen Ave, Pasadena, CA 91104 map

TO THE BALIAN MANSION
Directions: Go north on Allen (towards the mountains), take a right at Mendocino

LOS ANGELES NEW YEARS EVE: Free Rides Home!!!

2009-12-10T07:16:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve revelers in Los Angeles County can party late and take the bus or train home for free The Metropolitan Transportation Authority says it will offer free rides on all its bus and light rail lines between 9 p.m. Thursday and 2 a.m. Friday!

A fare normally costs $1.25.

Metro says the free rides provide an option for those who want to party without worrying about driving.

DATE BY KATE #13: Sparks at the Neon Museum

2009-12-09T20:35:00.000-08:00

"I felt a spark between us"
"She was probably just warming up her tazer"

WHERE: Museum of Neon Art to the Biltmore's lobby.
YOUR DATE
Ok, I've never been to this museum...so far. I've heard really good things about it though and I think it's worth a shot...particularly because I believe most of the museum has to be in the dark. Dark Museum = Good Times. It's right near the Biltmore which has a gorgeous lobby and expensive drinks. Stick around and check out the ambassadors and movie stars. Don' t make sexy hotel jokes, a little trashy.

HOURS: Thurs-Sat 12-6, Sun 12-5
ADDRESS: Neon Museum: 136 W 4th St Los Angeles, CA 90013
PHONE: (213) 489-9918

DATE FASHION: So, it's 2am, and you can't walk

2009-12-09T02:15:00.000-08:00

Carrrrrrrrryyyyyy meeeeeee
Sigh, I see this problem all the time. Women going out at 9, in their eleven inch Jimmy Choo's and for some reason, circa, sadly ten minutes or hopefully four hours later, they're rolling around on skateboards like Roman Gypsies. Not cute.

The solution: Flats or Flipflops
Now I know neither of these shoe types make your fourteen inches taller. But if your spine is on the brink of collapse because you didn't realize that your one-size-too-small-Forever 21 Beyonce pumps weren't going to get you through the night, you listen closely.

Flats
Are luckily in. If you get a cute ballet shoe, you can roll it up in your purse with ease. I find flats usually don't give me enough back support, but it's better than paralysis.
Get your flats here

Flip Flops
The ugly, less socially acceptable cousin of the flat. So they probably won't let you into the club in these bad boys (anywhere but LA) BUT you can always stick 'em in your clutch. Again, there is the "butt doesn't look amazing" argument again but as long as you can get to your taxi or Tracy's car, it really doesn't matter what you look like. Haivana's are my go to, their a little expensive but they last forever and come in great colors.

Flats and Flip Flops on Dates: Go For It.
Even if they are not your primary shoe of the evening, you should bring these as a back up when you inevitably wish you hadn't put your car on the scary side of Griffith Park. You'd be surprised to learn that most men actually think that women are idiots for going out in high heels. That although they make your butt look fabulous, turns out, your butt looks way more fabulous if you aren't limping on a mailbox outside of stupid clubs like Menage.

DATE BY KATE #12: Saffron Ice Cream and Goofy Reliquaries

2009-12-08T18:47:00.000-08:00

1. Start at Cafe Brasil
10831 Venice Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90034-7109
You start your day with a lunch at Cafe Brasil. Have the beef plate with black beans. If you make sexy eyes at the cooks, they'll usually toss in some plaintains. Lovely atmosphere, like you're in an adorable futbal garden.

2. Next Museum of Jurassic Technology
9341 Venice Blvd Culver City, CA 90232-2621
Next head to the Museum of Jurassic Technology. It's all a major joke and if you have a good sense of humor, you'll understand just how ridiculous and fun the museum is. Hold her hand in the Russian Space Dog gallery. Kiss his cheek in the Needle Portrait Niche. Great, endless make out journey. Enjoy!

3. Mashti Malones
1525 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028-7072
Next, take a delightful northward jaunt (via car) to get some of the most epic, ethnic ice cream around. Have a seat at MM's with Orange Blossom, Saffron, Rose sorbet with Sour Cherry. I like the Lavender and the Ginger Rosewater is wicked.
Pick up an LA times and cruise some culture.
Park easily but warily because of the gross parking lot.

4. Hollywood and Highland
6801 Hollywood Blvd # 433, Los Angeles, CA 90028-6128
Hop over to Hollywood and Highland. Park for $3 at the main garage and indulge in the options. Ladies can throw on some sparkles at Sephora, Fellows can cruise goofy sunglasses for a giggle. Walk down to the main road to see Marilyn Impersonators etc (take pictures for a price) and look for the goofiest tourist trinket as a sexy souvenir of your lovely day together. TIP: Can take the metro back home if you're over it. NEARBY: Hollywood Bowl if you planned you're evening even epic-er. Good luck and Good date!
Kate

DATE BY KATE #11: CarnAmore

2009-12-07T05:00:00.000-08:00

Burger Bias
For a very long time I have been deliberating over what is the best burger in Los Angeles. I have had many, and there are many that rarely pass must...ard. But there are few that really hit the spot. These are my top three choices for a burger joint in Los Angeles.

Your Date
Say you and your date are in a meaty mood as noon rolls around and you are ready to rate the Kate Burger Choices. But you can't decide. Here is your guide.

WANT A BURGER ON A TRAIN: Carney's
This is really one of my favorite burger places ever. Carney's is ideal for (a) delicious burgers and (b) watching tourists or clubbers as they ramble on about whatever. Forget the chili, but go for the fries and a cheeseburger. Pretend to be famous on the porch of the restaurant as the posers walk by. Add a giant body guard for effect. Park for free in the back lot.

WANT A BURGER AND A MILKSHAKE: Wolfburger's
Wolfburgers. I have only been going to Wolfburgers my entire life so I am a little biased. The burgers are aight, but if you want a Milkshake in Pasadena before you hit up the Ice House I recommend it. Free Parking.

WANT A HUGE, MELTY AWESOME BURGER: Houstons
Houston's, I know it's a chain, has some of the skankiest, drippiest, deliciousest burgers in town. Grab the cheese burger it melts in your face. The place is really swanky most of the time, very mature. Right outside of pasadena. A little expensive, but go for broke if you want to go for stuffed. Free Parking.

DATE BY KATE #10: Licking Spatulas at Old Town Cooking School

2009-12-06T02:08:00.000-08:00

BACKGROUND
Ok, now I know this is a little bit biased, and I'm sure it would be fun to cook with YOUR mom, but YOUR mom probably doesn't have a COOKING SCHOOL LIKE MY MOM. But the fact is, I am recommending it because I have experienced just how much fun and romantic these classes are. And so I present, Old Town Cooking School of Pasadena.

OLD TOWN COOKING SCHOOL
Based in Pasadena, the sign-up-one-class-whenever school is owned by Deb and Deanna, two epic home cooks who teach everything for any level cook from Thai Soups, Lobster Wrangling, French Gourmet to Bachelor Basics. TONS of young people have started coming to the class and it's a great way to meet people or learn how to flambee for that dreamboat in the next cubicle.

YOUR DATE
1. Show up to the class, throw on an apron, have a glass of wine, have a chit-chat with Debbie, rant about the awesomeness of her Daughter's Date Designs. Impress your girl with wine language (My this bouquet is fat and buttery) or make up your own wine language (My, what a skanky pinot grigio).

2. Sit back and watch the masters at work, ask questions, play footsie with your neighbor, hold his hand if his question didn't make any sense, write notes to eachother on the cookbooks you get. Giggle (but don't tell my mom I said so).

3. Chow down on all the stuff you can't believe you just learned to make together. Tickle him with a lobster claw, put a spoon up your nose, let your eyes twinkle girl, I know you know how. Lick some gelato off his lips.

4. After the class, walk off the wine around Old Town. During the Summer there's music at Levitt Pavillion, and the Pasadena City Hall is just two blocks East on Holly. Kiss her quietly as she's trying to decide. Have a coffee at Coffee Bean. Enjoy the evening! Good Date!

LOGISTICS
COST: Classes from $25-$70. Discounts are available on the internet if you look for them.
CLASS TYPES: Mini classes, Hands on, Demonstration Classes
CALENDAR: Bachelor & Bride Beginner Class, Holiday Cocktails, Grilling and MANY MORE
CONTACT: email: info@oldtowncookingschool.com

DATE BY KATE #9: Getty Center Double Dates (Dec 6 & 20)

2009-12-04T20:08:00.000-08:00

WHEN: Sundays, December 6 and 20, 2009
Time: 3:30–5:30 p.m.
Location: Getty Center, Museum galleries
COST: Free; space is limited.
TO DO: Relax and engage with art at Getty Drawing Hour, a free guided drawing session for aspiring artists of all skill levels. The informal two-hour classes focus on works of art in the Museum's galleries. In July and August, the course moves outdoors to the Central Garden.

How to Participate
The Getty Drawing Hour is free and open to 45 participants on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign up on the day of the session beginning at 2:30 p.m. at the Information Desk in the Museum Entrance Hall.

Materials
Bring a drawing pad up to 24" x 36" and pencils.

How to Get Here
The Getty Center is located at 1200 Getty Center Drive in Los Angeles, California, approximately 12 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles. See Hours, Directions, Parking for maps and driving directions.

Event Information by E-Mail
Be the first to know about upcoming lectures, concerts, and exhibitions by signing up for e-Getty, our free monthly e-newsletter. Learn more and sign up now.

DATE BY KATE #8: Free Museum Admissions From BOFA 12/5

2009-12-03T20:59:00.000-08:00

FREE museum admissions on Bank of America

What/Why:: Any Bank of America card (one card = one admission) grants you free general admission to any of the listed museums nationwide during the **FIRST** weekend of each month! This promotion started last year and is continuing through this year all the way until January 2010. I will be editing the dates for every weekend; the next available dates to go are: DECEMBER 5-6, 2009.

Here are the museums participating in CA (for other states, please check the website):
- The California Museum for History, Women and the Arts
- Crocker Art Museum
- Explorit Science Center
- LEGION OF HONOR
- Museum of the African Diaspora
- de Young Museum
- CONTEMPORARY JEWISH MUSEUM
- San Jose Museum of Art
- Tech Museum of Innovation
- THE FRESNO METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART & SCIENCE
- L.A.C.M.A.
- Autry National Center of the American West
- Museum of Latin American Art
- MUZEO
- Discovery Science Center (no Sundays)
- Laguna Art Museum
- Riverside Art Museum (closed Sundays)
- Palm Springs Art Museum
- THE LIVING DESERT
- Birch Aquarium at Scripps
- THE NEW CHILDREN'S MUSEUM

Vanilla and Older Men...pay attention...sexy pie

2009-12-01T10:12:00.000-08:00

DATE FASHION SOURCE: SensationElle

2009-11-21T13:52:00.000-08:00

Mini pencil skirt $6, Forever 21, Shoes: from Ross $16.
And she still looks Hella Famous.

Sensation.Elle is an up and coming blog where Elle. P., an epic fashionista, let's you know where to go and what to get on the...Wise. Her goal is to save money while maintaining a look that is both Fabulous and Sensational, and Wicked if I may say so myself. In my opinion, I think her blog is really an awesome take on totally realistic and fantastical fashion which includes knock-offs, animal prints, pencil skirts and hot pink. Believe the hype and join the crowd!
Kate

DATE BY KATE #7: USC Fisher Museum of Art

2009-11-21T02:00:00.000-08:00

WHERE: USC Fisher Museum of Art
TIME: Tuesday-Friday 12-5 pm, Saturday 12-4 pm

DATE TIPS
1. Park on campus for $8
2. Grab a map because you're already lost
3. Make your way over to the museum, don't get hit by a bike

DATE BY KATE #6: Murder at the Getty Scavenger Hunt

2009-11-20T20:22:00.000-08:00

WHAT: The Murder at the Getty Museum Scavenger Hunt (Adults only)
WHEN: Saturday, December 5, 4:30 pm
WHERE: The Getty Center Los Angeles
BUY TICKETS: Watson Adventures
DESCRIPTION

A murdered curator has left behind a cryptic trail of clues connected with secrets in works at the Getty Center in Los Angeles. As your team gathers answers about the art, you begin to piece together a sordid tale about greed, lust, pride, revenge and treachery, all revolving around the museum’s planned multi-million-dollar purchase of a painting by Leonardo Da Vinci. The murder victim knew too much-and now it’s your turn to learn what he knew and discover what drove one of four suspects to commit murder. To find out, you’ll have to crack a secret code left in the victim’s appointment calendar. Can you figure out who dunnit? Be prepared for one of our most challenging hunts.

ADDRESS
1200 Getty Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90049

DATE BY KATE #5: San Antonio Winery

2009-11-20T16:03:00.000-08:00

"So...when do we get to step on these grapes..."

The San Antonio Winery

Los Angeles Winery since 1917
Right in down town LA

Activities

Three free wine samples
Wine tasting of 8 or 9 wines for like $9:
Tours by the hour: Stumble about in love
Wine Classes: Learn how to taste wine like a true snob....together ($20-$55)

Contact Information
737 Lamar St.
Los Angeles CA 90031
(323) 223-1401

Site Information

DATE BY KATE #4: Murderous Dinosaurs

2009-11-19T20:28:00.000-08:00

Hint: The velociraptor can't wait to eat you.

WHAT: The Murder at the Natural History Museum Scavenger Hunt (Adults only)
WHEN: Saturday, November 21, 2 pm
WHERE: The Getty Center Los Angeles
TICKETS: Watson Adventures

DESCRIPTION

Someone, or something, has been bumping off museum staffers involved in acquiring an ancient Aztec relic. Is it the dreaded Curse of Itlkilyu? Or is a serial killer on the loose? Your team of sleuths will have to crack a hieroglyphic code and uncover the museum’s secrets to stop the killings. This is our most challenging hunt, so the more sleuths you bring on your team, the better your chances of figuring out whodunnit.

ADDRESS
1200 Getty Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90049

DATE BY KATE #3: Wishing on Leonid's Falling Stars

2009-11-15T23:21:00.000-08:00

Your Date Starts on Monday November 16 goes until the morning of November 17

WHEN CAN I SEE THE LEONID SHOWER
Monday November 16th at midnight
1230 AM-2:30 AM Pacfic Time

LEONID METEOR SHOWER
A shower of shooting stars. The shower happens each mid-November, when Earth passes through an area of space filled with debris from a comet. That debris burns up in our atmosphere, causing the “shower” of meteors. In Los Angeles you'll be able to see about one leonid every two or three minutes.

CHOOSING A LAZY STARGAZING HOTSPOT
Tough in LA because of the ambient light. A good litmus test is if you can see the little dipper where you are standing, you are in an area dark enough. We're talking beaches, tops of mountains, deserts and forests. PLEASE choose a safe destination where both you and your date can feel safe (no deserted dumps, middle of the highway romps)

HOW TO PROPERLY STARGAZE
Lying down and looking up. Lots of people use pillows and just lie there. Make lots of wishes.

PREDATE
Tell your date to dress warmly and exactly where you intend to go. You don't want to flip them out by taking them to deserted parts of the state. Also, make sure they are prepared for a night of wishes and giggly nonsense (whatever that may entail for you and your mate)

SUPPLIES
Aim for warmth: Warm jacket, Blanket/Sleeping bag
Comfort: Two pillows
Safety: Flashlight, Glowsticks
Fun: Get ready to tickle and hold tightly

YOUR DATE
9 pm

Get your supplies together
Think of some goofy wishes you can tell your date and can't tell your date :)
Learn proper wish making protocol

10 pm

Catch some late dinner
Inform your date that the best way to watch a meteor shower is lying next to eachother and looking up

11 pm

Dunkin Donuts: grab some hot cocoa and donuts for the road*
Inform your date of proper making a wish on a star protocol
Remind your date to make wishes on the shooting stars

12 am

Arrive at your Lazy Stargazing Hotspot

12 am-2 am

Spend the time talking about the wishes you want to make and the wishes you made as a child.
Engage in again, whatever your definition of giggly nonsense may be.

*This is an inappropriate venue for spaghetti but do try if you insist.

How to Wish on a Star Properly

2009-11-15T18:57:00.000-08:00

Wish Better
Now, in this day and age, many people are turning to wishing to pay bills or get to France. Well at tonight's Leonid Meteor Shower there will be plenty of shooting stars to pay your mortgage and get you closer to that Cute Blonde in your Chem Lab...If you do it properly.

There are two methods you can choose from:
The Wikihow Method and the Kate Method (i.e. The right method for making wishes)

WikiHow's Guide to Wishing on Shooting Stars.
Wikihow has created a surprisingly elaborate method of getting your wishes met, and by golly, they're free to make, so spend a buck.

Think of all the things that you want to wish for. Think of the things that you don't have, like a million dollars, a house, a jumbo sized vanilla shake. It could be anything!
Close your eyes and wish for things that you can't live without, or that you deeply want, or things that you could actually have that seem impossible to get, like a penny minted during this calendar year, a date to the prom or to find a best friend.
Narrow down your wishes, to be maybe just one or two special ones. Keep eliminating wishes, and find just two that are most important, and that really think could come true. You may feel that they are equally important, and if so, then wish for the both or them, or just one.
Look up at the sky, and look for a bright star, if you cannot find a shooting star. Close your eyes, and make your wish. To be safe, make the same wish when you go to the mall and see the water fountain. Close your eyes, make your wish and toss a penny into the water.
Write down your wish on paper, then tape it or rubber band it to a 1/2 dollar coin. Throw this into the nearest body of water, and wait for your wish to come true.

The Kate Method of Wishing on Stars
AKA The right way to wish on stars

PREGAME: Think of one thing you want a lot (a person's health, trip to some French country, a beau's return)
GAME ON: Spot a shooting star, or even a bright star (Twinkle Twinkle Methodology), shut your eyes and wish quietly for this thing as hard as you can.
POST GAME: Don't tell anyone what you wished for, it will ruin everything.

Now that you know how to wish on stars, get out there and get a date with that someone you keep wishing for!

Kate

Date By Kate #2: A Pie Contest Date, not Kobayashi style

2009-11-13T19:22:00.000-08:00

The Food: Pie
The Price: Free
You and Your Homeboy: There.

Your Date
KCRW presents the first annual Pie Contest where 150 contestants will be submitting their pies for tasting...by you...for free. While I wouldn't necessarily suggest a pie/pizza/hotdog/kimchi eating contest for a date, everyone loves free food, and even more, everyone loves pie. Registration is closed but you can absolutely get your pie on if you show up!

Date: November 14
Place: Canyon Atrium at Westfield Topanga
Time: 2-4PM

Great Dates in History: Universal Studios Lot Circa 1973

2009-11-09T20:20:00.000-08:00

YOUR DATE
1. TO DO
Hot wire a golf cart with a paper clip and drive your date around the Universal Backlot

2. LOCATIONS
Illuminated only by moonlight, hit up Western Street. New York Street. Mexican Village

3. BEWARE
Beware of the rotating Ice Tunnel because it makes you throw up and swerve to the side with embarassing results.

4. BEST TIME TO DO IT
1973, after 9pm

Date By Kate #1: Proper Hollywood Bowl Date

2009-11-08T18:28:00.000-08:00

The other night I saw a presentation of the music of Bernstein at the Hollywood Bowl! For those of you who dont know, the HB is a classic pain but its really evolved in terms of want-to-go-and-we-actually-can-go-ed-ness. For instance, instead of parking in the fire hazard of a maze they call the staggered parking lot, you can meet up a shuttle at a location near you. Another option is you can metro or drive for and park for $3 into the Hollywood and highland stop. As for the ungodly tickets, I just found out that you can get tix between $1 and $8. So
youre far from the bowl, but the acoustics aren't any better than the 10th row, you dont have to sit near snobs, you can cupcake like crazy, see the landscape above the bowl and move down when no one is looking. Over enormous sandwiches, diet cokes and milano cookies on a silver platter (were not heathens) we delighted in the sounds of Candide and On the waterfront. Be aware that it gets Hella cold but it's a wonderful Los Angeles delight that's more convenient and accessible than ever.

Dating and Contagious Diseases: No More French Kissing

2009-11-08T16:56:00.000-08:00

"Swine flu has put an end to a beloved French custom, at least for now," said Sherryl Connelly in the New York Daily News. The French health ministry has issued a warning that the air kiss, or "la bise," could spread the swine flu, or H1N1 virus. The "bise ban" got its start when the mayor of the town of Guilvenec in Brittany told school teachers and students to drop the traditional greeting.The kissing ban has not become a national law, yet, said Henry Samuel in Britain's Daily Telegraph, but big companies such as insurer AXA have told workers to abandon the bise and the handshake, and some offices are even demanding a one-yard person-to-person buffer zone. And an outright national ban could be one of the emergency measures France takes in the winter flu season to fight a possible H1N1 pandemic.With what shall we replace the kiss on the cheek and the handshake? asked Sandrine Blanchard in France's Le Monde. A slap on the back? If that's the way you go, be gentle. If you slap too hard you might make your friend cough or spit—and that's been banned, too.

FROM: http://www.theweek.com/article/index/100271/Swine_flu_and_Frances_kissing_ban

The Pursuit of Cheap, Ecstatic and Fulfilling Love

2009-11-08T13:54:00.000-08:00

Recently I've been speaking with many of my friends about first crushes. Although I will not reveal the identity of the crushes and the crushees, I will say that many of them took place between first and third grade and all of them had incredibly perfect first crush names like Nancy Conti, Perry Como, Danielle, Tanner, Gary and Andre Many of the crushees told me that they had loved these individuals because of their blonde hair and blue eyes, their exotic dark skin or their intoxicating scents. Mind you, intoxicating was often defined as orange-cicles, strawberry short cake dresses or "Trix."

And I invite you to consider your first crush. Can you recall that useless hair twisting, nail biting, last name binder drawing dreaming love that made you a giggly wreck and a glittery fool?

Are you justifying your love because they had hair that smelled like cotton candy and looked like gold? Eyes like green and blue Gushers? Are you falling back on the, "made me feel dizzy" or "couldn't stop looking at her over my lunchable" excuse?

Are you shivering or giggling just thinking about him or her?

Well I invite you to consider that maybe you got it.

Maybe you got what many of us are looking for.

Before we started to filling out score cards as soon as they sat down at the bad restaurant chosen by them on your inevitably awful first, and last date. Before they starte failing questions like, "Do you prefer asian girls," "How many degrees do you have?" "How much do you make" "what's your 401K like?"

When sex started being part of the occasion, what was lost?

Maybe a serious relationship is the problem. Not Serious Love.

Nothing was more serious than my love for Mitchell in Arizona. He had a totally sweet Alligator pool raft which I saved him with because home boy couldn't swim. Cause he was four. We were meant to be. There was no conversation or birth control conversations.

Just useless, blind and hysterically content amour.

Look for it. Be less discerning and more adventurous. Fall into it, go nuts.

Maybe you need it.

Maybe that's all you need.

Next up:
The Pursuit of Cheap, Ecstatic and Fulfilling Individuality

Love for All

2009-11-08T13:50:00.000-08:00

Dating Kate

2009-11-08T13:33:00.000-08:00

"If dating me is as expensive as being me,
one of us better get a job."
KS

MATES BY KATE: Steps along the way

2009-11-08T12:06:00.000-08:00

FIRST STEP
Stop looking. This is the best tactic. Just put yourself in new places and have a good time, you'll see that you enjoy yourself more and maybe others will too. Worst Case Scenario, good solo-time for you!

SECOND STEP
Ladies, bring a back up buddy when you go sharking. If you actually want to date someone do not go home with them or kiss them as soon as you meet them. Bring a Wing Woman. Have fun, but safely you twit.

MATES BY KATE #1: Losing the Training Wheels

2009-11-08T11:55:00.000-08:00

WARNING
Ladies, bring a back up buddy. I haven't been to these locations, and until I am fully confident in the skeeze factor, Do not go alone, bring a girlfriend, or a "wing woman"

HOW TO FIND A DATE IN LA #1
I Recommend: Cicle.org
This website, dedicated to the biking few in Los Angeles, has a bunches of events where bicylists can play with their toys, show off and socialize. The event that caught my attention was The Tweed, Moxie & Mustache Ride which is unfortunately over but they have the

Bike Oven Community Bike Repair

Community bike repair space Bike Oven is a repair space and a social space for hangint out with fellow riders.

LOCATION
Bike Oven Community Bike Repair

Tuesday, December 8, 2009, 7 – 10pm

3706 N. Figueroa St.
Los Angeles, CA 90065

and learn to fix a bike in five minutes flat at

DIY Repair Coop!

MATES BY KATE: How to find a Date in LA

2009-11-08T11:30:00.000-08:00

WHAT HAPPENED TO JUST DATES?!
Okay, so a lot of my single friends have been on my case that I have this website for making dates. But they don't have people to take on my fabulous dates and are therefore unable to go on my brilliant dates and review my dates.
This makes me Livid.

So I am going to tell you WHERE to find people to date in Los Angeles through the new series "Mates By Kate" I am going to give a disclaimer however that all of my, "where to find dates" feature isn't necessarily about finding someone new to go out with, but perhaps going out there and doing something on your own. Making new friends, new "mates." Finding friends in Los Angeles is nearly as difficult as finding romantic partners. Especially if you're not from here, and especially if you're not fluent in Los Angeles.

I am a firm believer that one cannot have "Us-ness" without "Me-ness," be your own best beau. Do something nice for yourself, be safe, and have fun.

Right in Time for The Holidays: Custom Dates!

2009-08-21T00:38:00.000-07:00

FOR YOUR GIFT CERTIFICATE
contact: swartzkhs@gmail.com

YOUR GIFT
Have you been searching for the perfect first date? Love the excitement, cringe at the awkwardness? Kate's Dates are for you! This gift will entitle the recipient one Kate consultation and the creation of a beautiful/unique/EPIC adventure of a date tailored to your desires!

WHY
Because it would be fun and organizing dates is complicated.

KINDS OF DATE
-First Date
-Any Day Date
-Need some more adventure in our love date!
-Holiday Date
-Special Event Date

THE CONTENT
Designed for the consultee! Believe in an adventure, some place new with someone special. After a brief consult, Kate will create a custom Dates by Kate Date as a gift or as a little something something for someone someone. I've become an ace in Los Angeles and I've got a million adventures I can't wait for you to take on.

THE COST
$10, which is mad cheap.

FOR WHOM
married friends
new couples
single friends
old friends
parents
kids

INTERESTED?
Email Kate at swartzkhs@gmail.com

HURRY NOW BEFORE SUPPLIES RUN OUT...MY IMAGINATION...JUST HURRY!

What Every Woman Needs to Know Before She Goes On A Date

2009-08-13T08:39:00.000-07:00

1. If you don't know him yet, don't get in his car.
Getting into a stranger's car is dangerous. Many terrifying, very serious crimes begin with a woman getting into a car with a man they don't know. The biggest reason: he has complete control over where you end up going as soon as you get in. For the Smallest reason: he may be a seriously bad driver. So do me, and yourself, and your poor mother a favor before you go out Drive yourself and meet him somewhere.

2. Tell someone/leave a note that details everything you know about your date
Classic and Imperative College-Girl Trick. If you're going on a date with someone you've never been out with before (new guy, internet, set up) you must leave a note with the information for someone. Your roommate, your best friend, your dad, ANYONE. Your parents won't come to "find you" in the middle of the night, but if something happens to you, they know where to look. This is a very basic safety precaution that maintains safety and social support.
It is totally normal, and you should be okay with leaving your date's:

HIS name
HIS phone number
address if you have it
job
where you're going.

3. Load your debit card/stash $20 for cabride outta anywhere
Before you go out for the night, load a bunch of cab companies onto your phone. I have a rule that has never failed me: If you are uncomfortable: bail. You've got nothing to lose.
LA Taxi: http://www.taxicabsla.org/

4. How to fight back
If you ever get into a physical altercation with a dude on a date. If for, whatever reason, he grabs your wrist or touches you in a way you are not comfortable with. Tell him:
(a) "you are not allowed to touch me like that." And if that doesn't work.
(b) grab & squeeze just one testicle, a move that will paralyze homeboy in pain, AND RUN.
*I recommend this because although kneeing is really effective, you can actually miss, I say this because I have missed before*

SELF DEFENSE CLASSES
ADVICE: http://www.43things.com/how_i_did_it/view/2246/how-to-kick-a-guy-in-the-nuts
ADVICE: Join a self defense class http://www.impactpersonalsafety.com/Register.html

DC DECISIONS: Should I get with a cast member of the Real World DC?

2009-08-08T13:51:00.000-07:00

Before you read this post:
Ugh, before you read this post, you need to understand that the biggest recommendation I can give you is: DO NOT TRY AND GET WITH THE GUYS FROM THE REAL WORLD

Why you shouldn't
(1) DISEASE: They've made out with every intern this side of the Mississippi.
(2) IVY LEAGUE FUTURE: Inevitably you're going to try to go to Harvard, and Harvard does not think that's okay. Mainly because Harvard had big plans with the cute blonde one and you ruined everything.
(3) REINFORCING BAD BEHAVIOR: Look, they're running around DC chewing on anything in seersucker panties. Pull it together and pull 'em up ladies. Just say no.
(4) YOU ARE NOT ALONE: You call it love, they call it Episode 2. It's a manipulation of people just trying to be happy in this city, and it's not fair.

Why You Should
Well, free air time and promotion for your blog

New location for Old Town Cooking School Classes this Summer

2009-05-23T09:54:00.000-07:00

Best Chili Cheese Fries in Orange County

2009-05-18T00:26:00.000-07:00

So here are the top 10 Chili Cheese Fry locations in Orange County (where my beau resides). Although there are several brand names included here, I recommend going some place that isn't all over CA (like Tommy's which ps, eughh).

1. Original Tommy’s World Famous Hamburgers (I do not endorse Tommy's)
Price: $2.90

2. Pacific Coast Hot Dogs
Address: 300 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach; 3438 E. Chapman Ave., Orange
Hours: Huntington Beach, 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Orange, 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
Phone: Huntington Beach, 714.969.8799; Orange, 714.744.1415
Price: $3.18

3. Volcano Burgers
Address: 3652 Cerritos Ave., Los Alamitos
Hours: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Phone: 562.430.6004
Price: $3.69

4. The Hat
Address: 23641 Rockfield Blvd., Lake Forest
Hours: Sunday through Thursday 10 a.m-11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-1 a.m.
Phone: 949.586.9200
Web: thehat.com
Price: $5.69

5. Tommy Pastrami New York Delicatessen
Address: Multiple locations throughout O.C.
Hours: Vary by location
Web: tommypastraminydeli.com
Price: $4.95 for small, $6.95 for large

6. Varsity Burger
Address: 600 W. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim
Hours: Monday through Friday 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m.-10 p.m.
Phone: 714.956.2772
Web: varsityburgers.com
Price $3.87

7. Native Foods
Address: 2937 Bristol St., Costa Mesa; 26705 Aliso Creek Road, Aliso Viejo
Hours: Costa Mesa 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Aliso Viejo, Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Phone: Costa Mesa, 714.751.2151; Aliso Viejo, 949.831.1926
Web: nativefoods.com
Price: $7.50

8. Fatburger
Address: Multiple locations throughout O.C.
Hours: Vary by location
Web: fatburger.com
Price: $4.95

9. PK Burgers
Address: 3320 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea
Hours: Monday through Saturday 7 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday 7 a.m.-4 p.m.
Phone: 714.528.0141
Price: $3.83

10. George’s Hamburgers
Address: 815 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton
Hours: Monday through Saturday 6:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; closed Sundays
Phone: 714.870.9960
Price: $3.70

2009-02-14T13:53:00.000-08:00

While writing the previous blog entry, I came across the worst possible valentines in the world. Apparently, There was an entire generation of absolutely racist, violent and totally frontal valentines which you gotta see.

Valentines Celebrated a Love of....

Stabbing

Meat Products

Onion Violence

Car Art

Venereal Disease

Visual Jewish Insults

Asian Culture

Guns

Saw Fish

It Was a Simpler Time

Which I would've promptly crushed and thrown in the bin
-K

NEW YORK NEW YEARS: Free Rides from Puff Daddy

2008-12-31T07:30:00.000-08:00

When it comes to drunkards making it home safe this New Year’s Eve, consider Diddy a designated driver.

After a successful run last year, the music mogul has teamed up with Ciroc Vodka for another Safe Rides program, which provides transportation in New York for those hammered after celebrating New Years Eve. For the first time, the program is being offered in Las Vegas.

According to Ciroc reps, Diddy and crew is planning to issue $15 pre-paid taxi cards to individuals, and a one-way $2.25 MTA cards. The cards will be distributed between 8:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. In Las Vegas, taxi cards will be handed out outside major clubs and intersections.

“As the 'Official Vodka of New Year's Eve,' we made a huge impact last year helping New York get home safely,” Diddy said. “So I'm proud to announce that we're bringing Safe Rides back in an even bigger way. By bringing this program to both of these great cities we will continue to show the rest of the country that a sophisticated holiday celebration doesn't end when the ball drops, but when everyone gets home safely." --Linda Hobbs

SAN DIEGO NEW YEARS EVE: Free Rides for All

2008-12-10T07:13:00.000-08:00

SAN DIEGO -- The Metropolitan Transit System will provide free rides on all San Diego buses and trolleys Thursday night for New Year's Eve revelers.Free bus and trolley rides will begin at 9 p.m., according to MTS.The MTS also plans extended all-night service on trolleys and on bus routes 7, 11 and 901. Other bus routes will end service at their normally scheduled times Kumeyaay Nation and Mothers Against Drunk Driving.