Date #23: Eww Groooooosssss: A Tidepool Date

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.

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

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.

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

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

Daily Date Feb 13: Nude Scavenger Hunt at the Getty

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

DATE BY KATE #14: Winter WonderBra, A HoliDate

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

DATE BY KATE #13: Sparks at the Neon Museum

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

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

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 #6: Murder at the Getty Scavenger Hunt

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 #4: Murderous Dinosaurs

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

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.

MATES BY KATE #1: Losing the Training Wheels

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!