A Lovely of Theatre...LA Style!

Defining romance since Shakespeare, nothing quite sets off a night more than Theatre and dinner. Los Angeles has a thriving theatre scene with a wide range of plays, musicals and comedy shows. With a wide range of theatres in Los Angeles, it's easy to find an intimate locale or one on a grand scale such as the Ahmanson or Mark Taper Forum. Although I love the magic and majesty of the large productions, to me, a small well done production can leave you as breathless as the former. The smaller productions are also a lot easier on the wallet.

I found a perfect website to easily search through all the theatre LA has to offer with some nice perks and discounts to boot. Givehttp://www.plays411.net/a go and find a show that strikes your fancy.

Do try to check out what the ACME Theatre in Los Angeles has to offer. A top notch, newly renovated theatre with a revolving cast of comedy professionals sure to tickle your funny bone. The ACME also works with outside productions that also offer great dramas from time to time. My favorite part of the ACME is Almafi Restaurant next door. It truly makes for that perfect night out... a lovely dinner, drinks and then saunter next door for some of the best theatre Los Angeles has to offer.

Also be sure to check out any promos the restaurant may doing with any given show. Very often Almafi Restaurant offers dinner and a show for two... for little more than a steal.

Plays411 - Los Angeles

Acme Theatre - Los Angeles

Almafi Restaurant - Next Door to the Acme Theatre - Los Angeles

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

Mollie's 365 @ J Lounge

The music was loud, the lights were pulsing and the sweat was spilling off my back. Cool beads of condensation rolled off the plastic cup between my fingers, splattering sugary sweet soda and vodka right between the exposed pink-polished toes peeking out of my strappy black heels.

If it wasn't for the fact that even the well drinks cost upwards of $10 a pop, I could have been back at a college party. A college party where the banquets were leather, the bars were expensive hardwood and the men were actually -- well, men. Other than the polished suits and propecia'd hairlines though, the scene at J Lounge last Saturday night was your pretty typical dance party, complete with all the fine musical stylings the Black Eyed Peas have to offer.

Of course, that's not what I was expecting when I scoped the place out beforehand. After receiving an invitation to attend a birthday party there, I did the first thing any sane person would do. I googled the place. What I found was an obnoxiously vague 'downtown chic' dress code, a cigar menu and enough slideshows of cherry wood and leather to make Gordon Gekko swoon. Add that to the fact that the place was downtown, and this strictly West Hollywood hotspot hopper was officially intimidated.

But, being a good friend (and being in need of another thing to try for my 365 Days of Different), I strapped on the big girl heels, threw together my best approximation of downtown chic (a vest, a push-up bra and a pair of nice black slacks), and made my way to the corner of Olive and 11th street.

What I found when I got there was a large line, a sprawling patio of awkwardly socializing neo-yuppies and a large flight of shady looking stairs that were clearly not designed with ladies in heels in mind. Fortunately, the pain in my pinky toes proved to be totally worth it, since it turned out that the stairs actually lead to an upper level loft with sprawling city views, a packed dance floor and plenty of perches to people watch from. From the corporate kens in their suits and ties to the slinky sistahs in minidresses and maximum height heels, it was definitely a different crowd from the more laidback west la scene I usually frequent.

If my dating desires were centered around finding me a sugar daddy, I would definitely have been in the right place. But even without any desire to climb the social ladder by climbing on top of the nearest guy in Ed Hardy, I still managed to have a good time. The DJ was pretty good for what he was, the music was just loud enough to dance to without being too loud to talk over and the bathroom line wasn't nearly as bad as it looked from the outside.

All in all, it was certainly a great place for a girls' night out, not to mention the perfect place to take a date for dancing, drinking and the requisite romantic moment in front of the sparkling city skyline. I would certainly recommend it as a nice addition to your revelry repertoire. Just don't forget to specify that you want your cocktails made with well liquor -- unless of course $20 vodka tonics are your preferred way to accessorize that downtown chic ensemble of yours.

J Restaurant & Lounge - Downtown Los Angeles

Written by: Mollie Vandor - SpeedLA Dating Resident Blogger

We Love Our Lakers!

The Los Angeles Lakers have won the Championship - Again!

We at SpeedLA Dating love our Lakers and can't wait to share our excitement with you. Sign up for any event this summer, enter LAKERS at checkout and receive $7 Off!

We are changing the Speed Dating scene and attracting a more sophisticated crowd than ever before. Some have called us Speed Dating 2.0; others just can't get enough of the fun! We are holding our Events and being invited to some of LA’s most coveted nightspots. From the ultra sexy Geisha House to the hip and trendy STK to the wonderfully theatrical, Ivan Kane's Cafe Was. Where we felt other companies lacked, we have set out to redefine. With organized, personable British hosts, Complimentary Make-Over’s for the Ladies, the absolute best venues, plate after plate of gorgeous nibbles and cash prizes, we are all things fun wrapped in a UK bow.

Same great value, same level of service and same cheeky fun to every city in the SpeedUSA family.

To LA and to The Los Angeles Lakers we say "The Best of British to You!"

SpeedLA Dating - Los Angeles

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

Blown Away

It’s no surprise that many women spend an exorbitant amount of time trying to look like they didn’t spend a lot of time getting ready for a date. Whether its polished make-up, the perfect outfit – casual, but sexy enough to meet all date location attire requirements, or gorgeous tamed hair, women focus on just about every physical feature. Although there are women who don’t spend hours pining over their appearance, all women can agree that they want to look stunning and leave a lasting impression. If you are an appearance-attentive lady or you’re simply the girl who spends five minutes, there’s a hair care line introduced last summer to Los Angeles that is perfect for creating any look with minimal effort.

Blow, the New York Blow Dry Bar product line is incredible. From its replenishing shampoo to its twisting lotion, Blow is essential for the girl who won’t leave home without a dry mane. What does the line have to offer? Create that summery tousled look with Beach Blow, a texturizing mist that with a few sprays and some scrunching leaves hair looking like you’ve been on the beach all day (as the product name suggests). The leave-in conditioner, Tress Relief takes the pressure off your locks as a nourishing treatment and can cut down on detangling time in seconds. There are products for every styling need leaving your hair feeling silky and your confidence high. Plus, Blow is not tested on animals and is free of damaging sulfates and artificial fillers. Using Blow products will help reduce pre-date prepping, giving you more time to stress about wearing a hot black mini dress or tight skinny jeans with a racer back tank.

http://blowny.com/shopHairCare.html

Written by: Crista Michele - SpeedLA Dating Resident Blogger

Have a Laugh - UK Style!

Looking for something to watch... something funny... not too long... Show her you have a sense of humor with an English twist. If you haven't heard of 'Fawlty Towers' do try to extricate yourself from the rock you have been under and get ready to laugh...hard. "Fawlty Towers" is a British sitcom made by BBC and first broadcast in 1975. Now before you cry "That's before my time!", this is timeless. The setting is in a fictional hotel called Fawlty Towers, located in the seaside town of Torquay, along the "English Riviera". Written, created and performed to perfection by the great John Cleese of 'Monty Python' fame, this is one sitcom not to be missed. Considered by many to be the greatest comedy of our time, the show blends sarcasm, biting humor and wit like no other has before and since (except maybe Seinfeld... but it's a close call).

The series focuses on the exploits and misadventures of short-fused hotelier Basil Fawlty, his wife Sybil and their employees; porter and waiter Manuel, maid Polly and chef Terry. The episodes typically revolve around Basil's efforts to succeed in 'raising the tone' of his hotel and his increasing frustration at the numerous complications and mistakes, both from his own and those of others, which prevent him doing so. Much of the humour comes from Basil's overly aggressive manner, engaging in angry but witty arguments with guests, staff and in particular his formidable wife, whom he addresses (in a faux-romantic way) with insults such as "my little piranha fish" and "my little next of vipers". At the end of some episodes, Basil succeeds in annoying (or at least bemusing) the guests and frequently gets his comeuppance.

Due to the show's popularity, DVD sets of the series are a snap to find. If you are out and about, pop into 'Best Buy' or check out 'Netflix' if you can't leave the sofa. Both are sure to have plenty of copies on hand. Episodes are a half hour each and provide that perfect opportunity to snuggle up and laugh with your date while not encroaching too much on the rest of the night. And whatever do, "Don't mention the war!"

Fawlty Towers - BBC - DVD Sets & Additional Information

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

Up, Up & Away!

Looking to get away from it all? How about above it all? I offer you Los Angeles Helicopter Tours. Assuming of course, the lady didn't just have her hair done or has a skirt reminiscent of a Monroe photo shoot, this is one sure thing that will truly take her breath away. With tours starting at the Van Nuys Airport, hop aboard and see LA like never before.

Rates range from $160 per person for a half hour ride to $210 per person for a 45 minute ride or you can choose to fly in style with the R44 Luxury Helicopter with a rate of $275 per person for an hour of Trump like comfort. Their highly experienced FAA certified commercial pilots will make you very comfortable, narrate the sights, and answer questions during the flight. Fancy a go?

Los Angeles Helicopter Tours - LA/Van Nuys

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

You Down With K-Town?

Spice up your life…or at the very least your Saturday night, with a visit to LA’s Koreatown aka K-town. While most people associate K-town with Korean barbecue and karaoke (both tantalizing treats), K-town is home to a dynamic nightlife and a little Asian fusion could be the perfect remedy for those wary of yet another night of Hollywood swinging.

Whether a first date, blind date or study date, start your night off with tea and Korean ice cream (as the old saying goes, “when in K-town…eat”) at the intimate Café Mak (612 Shatto Place, Los Angeles). Did I mention there was free parking? Holler. Most K-town venues offer free parking, although a notice to all high rollers, some of the fancy schmancy places charge $2.

Walking into Café Mak feels as though you’re waltzing into “The Secret Garden” – or in 2009-speak a really swanky “Gossip Girl” set. Don’t protest, we’ve all got a little bit of Blair Waldorf in us. Every area of the wraparound Café feels like a special spot. So stake out some specialness of your own either outside on one of the several patios under a haze of white Christmas lights or inside at one of the dozens upon dozens of charming seating nooks. Follow the creaky hardwood floor maze to the seating destination of your choice and then pick a chair, any chair…there are leather chairs, upholstered chairs, wooden chairs…there are even demi sofas (what now, HGTV?) With gigantic columns and oversized, ornate mirrors lining the brick walls you feel as though you’re in someone’s really cool old house. Perhaps Professor Plum’s?

The most genius discovery is that every table features a buzzer where with a simple tap waiters come sprinting (I suspect their supersonic reaction time is a result of their stealth hiding spots in back of the demi-sofas). So grab your date or your book (ahem, “UsWeekly” counts) and enjoy a very kickback evening at your Korean home away from home, Café Mak.

Looking to kick up the K-town factor a few (thousand) notches? Go glam at Gaam (3465 W. 6^th Street, Los Angeles). The Gaam parking lot alone could be a scene from "The Fast and the Furious: K-Town”, definitely the director's cut’s edition. Exotic cars and crowds pack the lot…Paul Walker come out come out wherever you are. The hustle and bustle follows you inside Gaam (sadly, Paul Walker does not) where you’re swept up with the sky high ceilings, tables upon tables of boisterous crowds and the gigantic TV screen blaring music videos. Might I suggest sipping on the sangria (imagine an alcohol version of Capri Sun aka heaven) and splurging on the $10 French fries. My Korean is not what it once was (formerly “bad”, currently “VERY bad”) although with a simple tap of your tabletop buzzer (hey, it’s a K-town thing), kindly tell one of the hundreds of waiters that you’d like the “heap of straw French Fries.” Oh yes, the “heap” is critical. Enjoy your night on the K-town at mellow Mak or glam Gaam.

Cafe Mak - 612 Shatto Place - Koreatown

Gaam - 3465 W 6th - Korea Town

Written by: Meredith McKenna - SpeedLA Dating Resident Blogger

Lovely Bit Of Yummy!

I'm sure you have all heard of Pink Dot by now. Lovely little Volkswagen bug, decent selection and good service, albeit, a bit on the expensive/over-priced side. Well, I offer you, Yummy.com. Think of it as a Pink Dot done right. You have your date coming over for a night in, you open the fridge, only to find a pathetic mix of mustard's and Red Bull. Not only does Yummy.com have a full grocery store online, one that is very easy to use and intuitive, the deli and bakery are where Yummy.com shines.

With deliciously fresh nibbles ranging from home-made soups, fruit, sandwiches and salads, impress your date Yummystyle. They have two locations, one in West Hollywood and the other in Santa Monica. For those in between like me, we make do with Pink Dot, but truly there is no substitute for Yummy's service and incredible selection of gourmet sweets, treats and must haves.

Give their website a go and whatever you do, please don't tell Pink Dot we slagged them off, I do quite fancy their Egg Salad Sandwich.

Yummy.com - West Hollywood / Santa Monica

A Romantic Nook...

Dark and dripping in romance is the fabulous Carmine's Caffe in Westwood. A favorite haunt of mine, I find myself at this Italian love nest more often than not. From the old world ambiance, to the stage perfect lighting to the fact it is steps from my home, this is one locale very dear to my heart. Step away from the worries of the world and let owners Carmine & Kim spoil you with delightful dishes, a warm and inviting bar and all the little things that make this talian spot, irresistable.

The perfect date spot in Westside that isn't going to see you draining your 401k to leave a tip. Although not necessarily a bargain, I think you will agree, the ambiance, the food and the mood, justify the means.

Stroll in past what seems to be an Old English door to the very personable bartenders, all eager to make you feel welcome and act as though, you've just arrived home. Give a nod to bartenders, Steve and Mike and find your way into the dimly lit, romantic booths awaiting your every wish. As for appetizers you can't go wrong with any choice. The Baked Clams are lovely and the Shrimp Scampi a must have. On the entree front, I can not recommend the Filet highly enough. Cooked to perfection and laid over spinach, Pope blessed Mash Potatoes and Porcini Mushrooms, resulting in a romantic medly of their own.

Also worth mentioning is the Osso Bucco - served over Gnocci and the Chicken Pietro - layered chicken and eggplant parmesean. For after dinner, try any of their delicious, always seasonal desserts to set the night off.

You'll find me in the back corner booth, consumed in Italian heaven, fretting over how I can better serve my daters. Come over and say hello - assuming of course, I have finished my Filet.

Carmine's 2 Caffe - Westwood - (310) 441 - 4706