Back to Cali

We are well on our way into 2017 and I am finally getting around to wrapping up my Pacific Northwest trip from the end of last year. Portland, Seattle, Vancouver and now Orange County/Los Angeles! For the past three years, I've joined my husband on his annual trip out to Cali. This is a trip he's been taking for the past 10 years to visit his aunt, uncle, cousins and a high school buddy. Although I've been a few times already, this time, we explored a few new places. What has remained a constant on these visits is Laguna Beach. We are truly lucky to be guests at his aunt and uncle's place, where this beach is not too far of a walk. This was the most relaxing part of our trip - the perfect ending.

Ok, fine. Another constant on this trip is In-N-Out. I mean, how could one not?

We explored the Arts District which is chock-full of art installations, artwork, very cool boutiques and coffee shops. I loved this bit of sidewalk graffiti, which we found scattered about. While on our walk, I found out that there was a Blue Bottle in the area. Naturally, we had to seek it out so I could grab my New Orleans iced coffee. Trust me, it's a must.

We stopped by the Grand Central Market for lunch. So many options! But at the sight of the EggSlut neon sign, my mind was made up. And yes, the egg sandwich is as good as everyone says it is.

We also went to a Rams game! It was the perfect sunny Sunday to be a Rams fan for the day. Unfortunately, it wasn't a win for them. Oh, and that cap? Mance Media, the company founded by Dan's friend. Just representin'. After the game, Dan had the idea that he wanted to go down the Sky Slide at the Skyspace building. It's a 45 ft slide that is on the outside of the building, suspended above the city. No pictures of it, as they don't allow you to go down the slide with your phone. It was actually pretty cool, once I got over my fear of the height!

There was no way in hell I was leaving LA this time without stopping at Bottega Louie. Such a beautiful space filled with the loveliest of desserts. It was a hard decision but I went for Le Grand Macaron: vanilla cream, raspberry jam with fresh raspberries. I'm drooling just thinking about it.

One more, because dessert pictures always win!

Continuing with the dessert theme, we were introduced to Donut Friend.  You can buy already made signature donuts or you can DIY. You pick the donut, then the filling and lastly, the toppings. So, I went with a glazed donut, strawberry filling and vanilla sauce. Mmm, mmm, good. 

Do you have any Cali recommendations I should consider for our trip to Cali later this year? Please share! I'm always looking for new things to see, do, eat!