Say it with Style...

When saying it with Hallmark just won't do, I offer you the Lemon Tree Bungalow on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood. An uber boutique of gifts, cards, stationary, Dyptique and Illume candles, handcrafted soaps and sensual lotions with a generous helping of all things fun. With something for everyone, say it with a personal touch and go the extra mile with Lemon Tree Bungalow. This charming citrus-colored cottage is filled with beautiful gifts for the home. Brick floors and vine-framed windows create a peaceful and fanciful oasis from the bustling traffic outside.

Although famous for supplying movie studios and high-powered agents with stunning gift baskets, they can create something as large or small as you need. Tell them what's on your mind, your budget and watch them go to work. Complimentary gift-wrapping includes a frosted gift bag, colored paper, and lemon-yellow ribbon. Or for $3, you can get a custom job.Items tend to be a drop on the expensive side, but I think the extra attention, thoughtfulness, and uniqueness the gifts bring, more than outweigh any extra dollars you might spend.

Lemon Tree Bungalow - 8727 Santa Monica Blvd.
(310) 657 - 0211 - West Hollywood

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

Glitz and Glamour...Indian Style!

Looking for Vegas without the Vegas? Someplace to feel like a King on a pauper's budget? Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula is just the spot. Located 50 miles outside of LA, is this Four Diamond Resort dripping with amenities. Take your love by the hand and head to the 188,000 square foot casino with over 2,000 slot machines and video machines. Of if your prefer, stop by the one of many Casino Bars, grab yourself a martini and slide up to one of the 160 table games one can impress or embarrass, ones self with.

Much more than a Casino, Pechanga is a Resort. With 522 spacious guest rooms and suites, each is oversized with floor to ceiling windows, 4 star luxurious accommodations, 24-hour room service as well as complimentary use of the fully equipped health club, seasonal pool and sundeck with private cabana and a knowledgeable concierge service. Should a massage for two strike your fancy, Pechanga is sure to accommodate. Call ahead to the Concierge or Health Club for in-suite massage appointments. The best part of Pechanga is the value for money. Most weekends out of the year, expect to pay about $200 a night for a Deluxe Room. Rates drop significantly during the week. One splurge I highly recommend is the 1 Bedroom Suite and if your feeling extra flush, the Jacuzzi Suite. The 1 Bedroom Suite offer sitting rooms with a wet bar, separate sleeping quarters and one-and-a-half baths. Expect to pay about a $100 premium for the 1 Bedroom Suite. As for the Jacuzzi Suite, lavish in the Jacuzzi situated perfectly, overlooking the Temecula Wine Country, in the rather grand living room. For this treat, set aside an additional $200 a night above Deluxe Room rates.

Considering how much one can spoil themselves here for relatively little, a visit to Pechanga Resort and Casino can not be missed.

Pechanga Resort & Casino - Temecula

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

"And Away They Go..."

Maybe it's the excitement. Maybe it's the roar of the crowd. Maybe it's the mountains standing tall over the track as my #4 Horse hits the daily double, but I find Horse Racing at Santa Anita Race Track to be incredibly romantic. While for the most part, Horse Racing Tracks are anything but glamorous, Santa Anita stands out from the crowd with it's rich history, impeccably maintained park and it's amazing view. There are quite a few options when it comes to taking in the track, depending on your wallet and if you want to stop by for a few races and a hot dog or take in racing as only a big shot can. If you're dressed a bit on the casual side, I would recommend saddling up to your date and sliding past General Admission into the Club House. Guests of the Club House enjoy great views of the track's first turn, complete wagering services and access to the Box Seat area and dining overlooking the track. Although a few bucks more than General Admission, it is a few pounds well spent. Grab a hot dog, slide into the dining area and place your bets. Now if your trying to make an impression, I've got just the thing.

Purchase your Club House tickets and head for the 5th floor restaurant. The dress code tends to be a bit more formal in the restaurant so be prepared. It is recommended you make reservations ahead of time so call ahead to (626) 574-6366 and ask to be connected to the Fifth Floor Restaurant. If your not quite the planner, a well dressed smile with a generous tip ought to see you past the Maitre' D. Ask to sit along the railing and be prepared for a view that will truly take your breath away. Sip on a lovely glass of champagne, nibble on gorgeous treats and wager your paycheck in style.

Lastly for those that want to make an event out of your date, there is the Turf Club. Up until a few years ago, admission into the coveted Turf Club was strictly by membership only. Considerably more than General Admission, with only a slight increase over Club House, the Turf Club is well... The Turf Club. More formal, more glamorous and more posh than you ever imagined horse racing could be. Dine in the Turf Club with White Linen service overlooking the track all while you check your winnings on your own personal TV at your table.

Santa Anita Race Track - Arcadia

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

Good Morning, My Love!

So you've managed to get to the 'Next Day Breakfast' stage. Well, telephone the queen as we Brits say! However, a great breakfast isn't always the easiest to find in LA. Splash a bit of water in your face, give a kiss to your mate and stroll on over to Brighton Coffee Shop in Beverly Hills. A true coffee shop in every sense of the word... breakfast bar, friendly waitresses and food that you can count on to be consistently spot on. On the corner of Brighton Way & Camden Drive is perhaps one of the smallest dining rooms I've seen in LA that always seems to be full of eager diners looking for good coffee shop food and saving a pound to boot. Sidewalk service is quite nice and fun to people watch the 'tourists', watching back.


The oldest coffee shop in Beverly Hills, it's been around since 1934 serving traditional American food. This might be the best value in all of Beverly Hills. Breakfast, which is served all day, includes all the standards as well as a meatloaf & egg platter. Lunch is sandwiches, meatloaf, six varieties of baked potatoes and various meat dishes.

Brighton Coffee Shop - Beverly Hills - 9600 Brighton Way

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

Melt Her Heart..Sprinkles Style!

No better way to reach a woman's heart than through her sweet tooth. And there is no better way to reach her sweet tooth than with Sprinkles Cupcakes. If you don't know Sprinkles, pull yourself together and get informed...pronto! With locations in Beverly Hills and Newport Beach, these aren't pint-sized cakes. Cupcakes are something else entirely and Sprinkles Cupcakes are truly heaven sent.

With over 20 tantalizing flavors to drool over, Sprinkles Cupcakes are handcrafted from the finest ingredients, including sweet cream butter, bittersweet Belgian chocolate, pure Madagascar Bourbon vanilla, fresh bananas and carrots, real strawberries and natural citrus zests. Topped with Sprinkles trademark modern dots, rich chocolate sprinkles from France or seasonal sugar decorations, Sprinkles Cupcakes are a deliciously sophisticated update on an American classic.

A couple of gift suggestions sure to see your way to any girl's heart is the Favor Box andGiftbox. The first, is one singular, extraordinary Sprinkles Cupcake in their darling, Favor Box. Choose from an array of Special Decorations to customize your love cake. A present with a kiss and a great deal at $5. The latter, is the Giftbox, by Sprinkles. A lovely way to tell her you love her... 12 times over. The Giftbox is $46 and comes in a perfectly designedGiftbox meant to keep each delight safe and secure.

So go ahead and Sprinkle her with love...

Sprinkles Cupcakes - Beverly Hills / Newport Beach

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

More Cheeky? Yes, Please!

SpeedLA & NBC/Oxygen's 'Bad Girls Club' Gets Cheeky Again!

In 2009, SpeedLA Dating had the pleasure of hosting NBC/Oxygen's 'Bad Girls Club' Season 3 @ the fabulous Les Deux in Hollywood. The episode went on to become one of the most popular, fun and of course, cheekiest episodes of the season.

For 2010, the 'Bad Girls Club' is back and once again calls upon the hottest dating company for all their speed dating needs. Filmed this year at the extraordinary, Highlands @ Hollywood & Highland Center.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbKCH9R1RcE
SpeedLA Dating would like to thank the Producers, Crew and Cast for once again choosing SpeedLA and would like to say "We still love you too!"

Love,

Anoush x

To see last year's episode of the "The Bad Girls Club" -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubgkKy-3LNU

Penny Wise

I found a lovely service recently and thought I would share with my loyal readers. A fantastic service in the best of times and an absolute necessity in the current times. Introducing, Lifebooker.com. On Lifebooker you can search, browse, and book appointments at the top health and beauty spots in Los Angeles for free. You'll not only find exclusive deals, but you'll earn rewards towards your next appointment each time you book. Lifebooker.com negotiates exclusive deals at Los Angeles' top health and beauty spots which ensure the best deals in town all while making you feel not only fabulous when you leave your appointment, but fabulous from the time you put your appointment request in. Feel like that Industry bigwig with your own personal assistant. Minus of course, any cell phone throwing. :)

Now you can book a massage, blowout, or any other service, quickly and privately. Another lovely bit of fun is is the Reward Dollars offered towards any service on their site. For example, book and rate a $100 facial for your first appointment and they'll give you $5 in rewards. Unlike other online directories, they only display ratings and reviews from clients who have actually honored appointments. Their system also records the specific service your fellow Lifebooker client received, so you'll know if a rating refers to a manicure or a haircut.

Think of it as a Travelocity for all things beauty and health. Not just for women, men can enjoy all the pampering and styling LA affords at a price, everyone can afford.

Lifebooker.com - Los Angeles/New York

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

Seduction: Salsa Style

There are few things more prevalent than Mexican food on the LA culinary scene -- except for maybe actors turned waiters who serve it. With options that run the gamut from tongue tacos served by trucks to high end fare created by culinary giants in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles offers more options for Mexican dining than the salsa bar at your favorite Baja Fresh. Of course, with so many restaurants to choose from, how does an enterprising suitor choose the best place to take a date? Simple. Think salsa.

If you're rolling in green, a la salsa verde, you can afford to go to the high end huevos and horchatas. Which means you should go directly to Frida in Beverly Hills. Do not pass go, but do collect $200, since you might need it to pay the bill. Recession aside, Frida is a fantastic date choice, with its soft lighting, bright colors and vibrant art-adorned walls giving you and your date plenty to chat about -- if, of course, the margaritas don't take care of that for you. The food is great, with beloved Mexican classics getting the requisite Beverly Hills facelift via the addition of some seriously high end touches. From pumpkin mole to salty ceviche, Frida is truly a treat for the eyes and the stomach -- if not the wallet.

If you're more into the chunky home-style salsas, then I've got one word for you: Loteria. Well, actually three words: Loteria Grill Hollywood. Sure, you could go a little more upscale and hit the one at The Grove Farmer's Market, but in my humble I-grew-up-in-LA-and-I-know-my-damn-tacos opinion, the Hollywood outpost of this Angeleno standby is where it's at. And by it, I mean the most amazing tacos, salsas, burritos and jalapeno margaritas (yes, jalapeno margaritas) this side of the taco truck. And the best part for us amorous Angelenos? It's one of the few restaurants in its part of Hollywood where you can walk right in, sandals a'blazin' and not be stopped or scorned by a burly doorman. Which makes it that much easier to clean up the tomatillo sauce you'll eventually end up spilling during the requisite foodgasm you're guaranteed at Loteria. Oh, and I've heard that whole 'honey, you can wear your basketball shorts and Rainbows to dinner' thing really gets a guy going.Of course, some people just want the classic -- spicy, savory, medium-heat salsa. Just exotic enough to tickle the tastebuds, but not too far fetched for a gringo to get their head around. That's where restaurants like El Compadre in Hollywood and Coral Beach Cantina in Malibu come in.
El Compadre's got flaming margaritas, massive take-it-to-work-for-lunch-the-next-day portions and a mariachi band to complement the whole Disneyfied "Desperado" thing it's got going on. The food is good, solid, stick to your ribs Mexicalifornian and the service is always more than solid. Just make sure you don't go on an empty stomach during peak dining hours, or you'll end up waiting at the bar while your date gives you the stink eye. Coral Beach Cantina in Malibu, on the other hand, is always worth the wait. With its lantern-lit patio and close proximity to a post-dinner walk on the beach, it's a great date option if you don't mind the drive. It also happens to be the home of the first word I ever read by myself -- 'burrito.' Even at age 3, I knew what I wanted at Coral Beach Cantina. Make sure you also try the enchiladas, smothered in sauce and sour cream, if they don't get your date to warm up to you, you're probably better off leaving him or her on PCH and going off in search of someone who really deserves to share your salsa.

Frida - Beverly Hills

Loteria Grill - Hollywood

El Compadre - Hollywood

Coral Beach Cantina - Malibu

Written by: Mollie Vandor - SpeedLA Dating Resident Blogger

You Can't Beat The Rush

Alright girls, if mac and cheese, microbrews and buff bartenders sounds like your idea of heaven, then you need to book your next dinner date at Rush Street in Culver City. With its industrial-loft-meets-funky-flea-market-chic aesthetic and multi-tiered location in the heart of the chi chi side of Culver City, it's easy to dismiss Rush Street as just another sleek urban oasis for the post-work popped collar crowd. And, I'm not going to lie, the last few times I've been there, I have run into at least one popped collar every time. But, its brushed steel chicness belies a mind-blowing menu of updated comfort food classics that runthe gamut from luscious lamb lollipops to curried pumpkin ravioli, and of course, the aforementioned mac and cheese.

If that's not enough to lure you past the more-bark-than-bite girls at the door (who are actually sweet as pie, and have never once turned me away even when it's clear that my flip flops might be the only pair in the room), then just take a gander at the restaurant's extensive beer and liquor offerings. With a rotating selection of specialty brews on tap, a wine list that holds its own against the wine-focused Ugo across the street and bartenders that know their way around a bottle of Booker's, the bar at Rush Street is worth a visit alone.

If you can talk your way past the sentinels guarding the VIP section, I highly recommend checking out Rush Street's upstairs balcony and outdoor patio, both of which provide plenty of space to sprawl out and enjoy a plate of truffle fries or a pint of Delirium Tremens, not to mention a stripper pole tucked away in the back of the aforementioned balcony. Of course, you could also just hang out in the main restaurant area on the bottom floor, which turns into the closest thing Culver City has to a Hollywood-style see-and-be-scene club on the weekends, with DJ, dancing and all. Just make sure your date pops his collar properly first.

Rush Street - Culver City

Written by: Mollie Vandor - SpeedLA Dating Resident Blogger

Beat The Beaten Path...

Okay, so LA isn't exactly always Melrose Place or 90210. But, some stereotypes about the city of angels do have their roots in truth -- preferably well dyed roots. For example, odds are good that pretty much every waiter you'll ever have in LA is also an actor/model/writer/insert dream Hollywood job here. The paparazzi really are everywhere. And, there's nary a restaurant in sight that doesn't have a low carb option on the menu.

The stereotypes come out in even more full force when going out in Hollywood. Every bar is packed to the brim with blondes, bunnies and businessmen, and everyone's running as much professional game as personal. Of course, there are places you can go to get away from the whole stereotypical scene. But, once The Dime became a haunt on The Hills, I personally started losing my faith in the future of those out of the way watering holes. Which is why as much as I love the bars, there's also something to be said for some of LA's more unexpected singles scenes -- especially if you're looking to close a date with a real guy, not a deal with a reality producer.

If you're into the witty writer types, Book Soup is the place to pick them up. With writers from Al Gore to Sarah Vowell gracing their tiny store stage for readings, the shop attracts an eclectic event crowd. Browse the stacks and the shelves, work your way through the classics and the contemporary and maybe find your way to flirting over some fiction. Nothing makes a better pickup line than "hey, have you read this?" Plus, you can always test your potential pick up by asking him what he thinks of "Twilight."

Another bookstore with big boy finding potential is the newly opened branch of Santa Monica staple Hennessey & Ingalls. This sleek shop specializes in books about fashion, photography, art, architecture and design, and they just opened up a branch in the brand new Space 15 Twenty complex in Hollywood. The books are incredibly beautiful, inspiring and compelling, and the hunky hipsters and debonair designers that frequent the place aren't bad either. Strike up a conversation over that book about Schnabel or that coffee table Taschen tome, and then casually make your way over to Snackbar for a beer.

If grappa and grape talk are more your thing, head over to Silverlake Wines, where weekly tastings provide the perfect pairing for picking up foodies and fine diners alike. Tastings range from $12 to $20 a person, and come with a flight of wines accompanied by farmhouse cheeses, fresh breads and olives, as well as plenty of valuable vino knowledge, providing you with plenty of things to talk about and enough liquor to lubricate that whole awkward first conversation.So, bust out your sexy librarian look, brush up on your blancs and your burgundies and check out one of LA's lesser-known single scenes. Or, if you really want to get adventurous, you could try to cram all three pickup possibilities into one crazy book and booze filled singledom spree. Just make sure you pick up a moleskin at Book Soup so you can keep track of all your conquests.

Book Soup - West Hollywood

Hennessey & Ingalls - Santa Monica

Silverlake Wines - Silverlake Area

Written by: Mollie Vandor - SpeedLA Dating Resident Blogger

Looking Good. Feeling Good.

It is important in all levels of dating to continuously look ones best. Ladies, as you know, at our Events you will receive a complimentary makeover. How great would it be to go get your hair blown out earlier on in the day? I know just the place! 'Kevin Josephson' salon in Beverly Hills for all things beautiful. There are many highly talented stylists for men also.

They make the dull, fabulous in a matter of minutes. A full service Kerastase salon, allow yourself to be pampered at a reasonable price.

Ask for David, one of our favorite Colorist/Stylists, mention SpeedLA Dating and receive 20% off your services.

Kevin Josephson - Beverly Hills

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

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

"Dating on a Dime: Driving Range Edition"

Dating on a dime (or nickel…or penny…or half cent) has never been more in…or necessary. Sure, your savings account, job outlook and 2009 BMW car loan may all be dreadful, but that doesn’t mean your golf swing has to be. Invite Sporty Spice (or Sir Sporty Spice) to hit up Los Angeles’s best kept driving range secret (well, nearly best kept secret – its monster size green mesh nets practically wave at you while sitting in traffic on the 101 North), the Majestic Golf Land (4301 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles).

The Golf Land offers a variety of deals, for instance you can rent or purchase a club for the same price of $5. Yes, allow me to repeat that you can rent or purchase a club for the same price of $5. Break me off a piece of that fuzzy math. Their golf packages start off at $6 for 80 balls before 3pm. How’s that for majestic? From 3pm – 11pm, you get 63 balls for $6. Their other specials include $12 for 160 balls, $18 for 240 and $24 for 320, however, if you’re new to the golf scene then teeing up to 80 balls for the uno time is highly recommended. How highly? Any more than 80 swings will put your hands smack dab into blister territory and there’s no scarier enemy than an angry blister. Except one thing…multiple angry blisters.

So make like Tiger and tee up on one of the three tiered levels, all offering sweeping views of the Hollywood Hills. The balls are automatically dispensed (again, oh so majestic) so there is no opportunity to “bend and snap” a la Elle Woods. Instead if you’re sans suitor and swinging solo, chat up the golfer next to you. Chances are he will probably chat you up first as unsolicited golf tips are generously offered – especially for those that can’t distinguish a seven iron from a straightening iron. Guilty! Most of the customers are men, and by “most” I mean all, so come prepared in your favorite argyle skirt (where else besides a driving range can you get away with argyle? Besides Connecticut?).

Also, what’s particularly enchanting about the Golf Land is that most of the customers are not only men but Korean men. Korean men who not only like to hit a golf ball, but to hit a golf ball while listening to Korean pop and rap music, as each tiered level has radios buzzing with Korea’s hottest hits. If that’s not simply majestic then I don’t know what is. So add some majesticness to your summer date night or strike it solo and see you at the Golf Land.

Majestic Golf Land - Wilshire Center

Written by: Meredith McKenna - SpeedLA Dating Resident Blogger

Not Too Sure? Send Teuscher!

Teuscher truffles; so good they should be the 8th sin. The most divine chocolates on the planet, hands down!

Guys, if you don't feel up to sending flowers yet, I defy you to find a woman who wouldn't love a small box of Teusher's Truffles. Zagat declares Teusher's Champagne Truffles to be "the best on the planet". If you are not feeling entirely confident on that selection, the boxes of assorted truffles are simply decadent and the signature champagne truffle is always included in the box.

Dolf Teuscher began his journey for the perfect chocolate over 70 years ago in the Swiss Alps. Their kitchen headquarters in Zurich today makes more than 100 varieties of gourmet chocolates using original recipes that have now been passed down from father to son. There are Teuscher stores all over the world and we are very happy there is one right here on our doorstep inBeverly Hills.

If you don't have time to stop in, ordering online is easy and the delivery makes it extra special. I know I would love it. So go ahead guys, order up something sweet for your sweetie.

Teuscher - 9548 Brighton Way, Beverly Hills.

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

Love & Romance...LA Style!

Sensing love on the horizon... Well, no need to look farther than the horizon from the breaktaking Surf & Sand Resort in Laguna Beach. In a relationship or tying to turn a lovely time into a relationship, then it might be time to seal the deal with a weekend away. Set the navigation for the sea and watch your 'Impress' factor soar off the charts as you pull into the Surf & Sand. Stroll in the wonderfully chic lobby and ask for the Corner Rooms in the Original Building or if you have the means, The Penthouse Corner. This building literally hangs over the water with the surf crashing below. Reserve ahead for spectacular deals on this slice of heaven or try your luck same day when the resort is out of season. Rated by Travel & Leisure as one of the World's Best Hotels - this gem is sure to set any relationship on the right course. Luxurious amenities, a private balcony and a view that never ends... is the Surf & Sand Resort.

For that special night in on the balcony a phone call to room service is the perfect start. A lovely bit of bubbly, candles set to perfection and a menu that is sure to satisfy all cravings. While we usually suggest certain dishes, we can't begin to pick our favorites. From fresh sea food to meats you can slice with a butter knife, they are all dreamy and all fabulously fabulous. So go on.. Surf's up.

Surf and Sand Resort - Laguna Beach

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

Fancy a Banger?

We British are rather fond of you Yanks. If that feeling is mutual, than you might enjoy some flavour from back home. In Los Angeles there are two English restaurants well worth a mention. For you in the valley there is the Piccadilly British Shop & Restaurant on Burbank Boulevard near Victory. Although the locale isn't exactly UK posh, it does have all the charm of the pubs back home. Some of my favourite's on the menu are the Banger's & Mash (Sausage and Mash Potato), Shepard's Pie (Mince meat covered in Mash Potato) and the Sunday Roast (Roast Beef) is always good.

For those by the water, Ye Olde King's Head in Santa Monica is the spot for all things British in the city. On Santa Monica Boulevard, about a block from the Ocean, is this UK oasis. A must try is the Traditional English Breakfast. With variations ranging from Queen size to King size, this breakfast sizzled in perfection has all the necessary British ingredients. Choice of fried bread or toast, 2 eggs, 2 lovely slices of bacon, 1 banger (sausage for you yanks), sauteed mushrooms, English Baked Beans, Grilled Tomatoes and Breakfast potato's - all for a very reasonable, $10.95. After the meal, both restaurants have their 'must stop by' shops next door.

If you are a sweets lover, there is no substitute for British Sweets. Reasonably priced, considering the boat ride over, are delicious treats from Cadbury's and Rowntree. From melt in the mouth chocolate's, wine gums and fruit pastilles - you cannot leave without at least one of these English goodies. Show your date your worldly, have a pint and whatever you do, don't cry out 'Cheerio!'. We don't really say that.

Ye Old King's Head - Santa Monica

Piccadilly British Shop & Restaurant - Burbank - (818) 842 - 2324

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

Date My Space

Alright ladies, it's date 4 and you've decided that the guy you're seeing isn't a serial killer.

It's time to stop meeting in crowded public places, and let the dude pick you up from your apartment. If things go well, you might even invite him back up for a nightcap -- or a SportsCenter recap, either way. But, before you start planning your whole 'would you like to come up' line, there are a few things you need to make sure you've got handy in that humble abode. Think of it like the dating version of baby-proofing -- instead of covering outlets, you're making sure you're covered when it comes to the necessary apartment accoutrement required to maintain that whole sassy, successful single lady thing you've been selling since date one.

First of all, there are few truisms that are...well, truer, than that whole way-to-a-man's-heart thing. We all know there are certain organs that guys tend to defer to in times of need, and one of them really is their stomach. So, a well stocked fridge is a must. I'm not saying you need to have homemade cookies and pot roast chilling on your shelves. Hell, you don't even need a real kitchen. But, you do need to have cold water, cold beer and a decent bottle of wine on hand. Depending on the type of guy you're going after, a nice bottle of whiskey couldn't hurt either. I've found that you can get a lot of bang for your buck out of Firestone Double Barrel Ale on the beer front, Barefoot Pinot Noir in the wine rack and Maker's Mark on the liquor shelf -- most guys love all three brands, and none of them will cost you more than a twenty. Have some chips and salsa in your cabinets -- if unopened, they keep forever -- and you're all set for a lovely post-date rendezvous on your couch.

While we're on the topic of booze, nothing is worse than pulling off the perfect wine purchase only to find yourself struggling with the cork while trying to maintain that whole smooth seductress vibe. So, make sure you invest in a decent wine opener and a bottle opener to boot. If you've got $30 to blow, check out The Rabbit (http://www.amazon.com/Metrokane-6004-Rabbit-Corkscrew-Black/dp/B00004SQ0K/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1254602887&sr=8-2). Like the famous fun-time toy that shares its name, it's the Cadillac of its class of gadgets. But, if you'd rather save your cash for the wine, you can do just as well with a model like this onehttp://www.amazon.com/Pedrini-Wine-Pocket-Waiters-Corkscrew/dp/B0002AKKYO/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1254602860&sr=8-12, which basically relies on leverage to get the job done. It's what I have, and let me tell you, it's a boon for babes who don't want to spend the whole night fighting with a stubborn cork when they could be spending the time with a good syrah.

Of course, once you've got the food and booze covered, what else could a guy possibly want? Well, depending on how much wine you've downed, or how late your little post-date party went, there's a very good chance he'll want a cup of coffee. You know how that old book goes. If you give a mouse a cookie, he'll want a glass of milk. If you give a guy enough booze, he'll probably need a cup of coffee. The easy solution to becoming your own barrista, impressing your date and saving the seven bucks you'd spend at Starbucks? My new favorite toy -- the Melitta one cup coffee brewer, which has all the cool science experiment appeal of a french press without any of the expense. In fact, I got mine for less than $10 at the Ralphs on Sunset. You can also buy them for $8 and change on Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Melitta-Coffee-Maker-Ready-Black/dp/B001OBY37U/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1254603163&sr=8-5). It's also a great single girl accessory that saves you the counter space, expense and cleaning of a real coffee maker and actually makes a better cup of joe than any electric coffee maker I've ever had.

So, now you've got the food, the booze and the caffeine all taken care of. All you have left to do now is hide those stuffed animals on your bed (save 'em for the fifth date), change the channel to ESPN and make sure you've got your shoe pyramid tucked away in a closet (save all hints of potential high maintenance-ness for the fifth date too). Then, it's time to find the last and possibly most important apartment accessory for us gals dating in LA -- a parking space for your man. Because nothing says 'I'm committed to seeing where this relationship goes' quite like 'I just fought that angry guy in the convertible so you would have a convenient place to put your Prius.'

Written by: Mollie Vandor - SpeedLA Dating Resident Blogger

Simply the Best...

With a tag line of "Not Your Daddy's Steakhouse...", you know you're in for something a little sexier, a little more daring and a lot more fun, SpeedLA presents our cheekiest venue, STK on La Cienega in West Hollywood. Quickly becoming the epicenter of premiere L.A. dining, is this feast for the senses, the body and everything in between. It is sexy without trying to be, whimsy in spirit while being theatrical at heart. For a place so sought after by the Hollywood set, it is completely devoid of Hollywood attitude. The staff is excited to be in on the fun, the fellow patrons amongst friends and for a second, it can feel as tho' the TMZ cameras outside might just be there for you.The dimly lit walkway to the entrance is striking with its running water sculptures/fountains, along with a fire pit beckoning you to step inside. The elevated dining room is a study in black and white, with white brick walls, an art installation of tusks, and half moon booths. Step through the fringe into the atrium bar, where the music is pumping and the full dinner menu is also available. You might start with light novelties like foie gras French toast or shrimp rice krispies. There’s plenty of seafood, but the steaks pull rank here. Cuts range from 6 to 26 oz. and couple elegantly with sauces like blue butter or herb béarnaise and sides like sweet corn pudding and Parmesan truffle fries ($8), one of the restaurant's signature creations an absolute must.

For less carnivorous diners, there are also several non-steak main courses like the luscious big-eye tuna with porcini potato puree and a mushroom bordelaise. After dinner, don't forget to please your sweet tooth. Desserts are new twists on classics, like the PB&J Sundae whose ice cream scoops are, appropriately, peanut butter and jelly, topped withnutella, grape preserves and a caramelized banana.

With innovative twists that appear like clockwork but are never rushed, whether for dinner or devine drinks, your libido will be in over drive wondering what the next surprise is. Fantastic for a first date and better for the third date and beyond, you can feel welcome here for a drink or that unforgettable dinner.

Also well worth a mention is STK's 'Bite While It's Light' menu offering from 6pm to 8pm - Thursday and Friday. A lovely opportunity to sample the heavenly menu with 'Lighter Bites' of their Shrimp Salad, Shrimp Cocktail and Tuna Sashimi to name a few, at a price of $10, which allows for that extra signature cocktail. Speaking of Signature Cocktails, sip and sway like a rockstar, for $10. Looking for a full meal? Settle into their Petite Short Rib or Skirt Steak with Garden Salad for a very reasonable, $15.

We at SpeedLA are quite chuffed to be invited some of the very best L.A. has to offer. Bypass the velvet rope and let SpeedLA roll out the red carpet to the spot no one can get into - because everyone wants to.

Enter STK at checkout for a lovely discount to boot!

Ready for a bit of fun?

http://www.speedladating.com/

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

STK - West Hollywood

It's how you say 'Cheeky' in Japanese...

I'm sure you have all heard of or even been to the fabulously fabulous, Geisha House in Hollywood. For those that haven't or haven't a clue what Geisha House is, remove yourself from under the rock you have been under and get ready to tantalizeyour senses. While most sushi restaurants tend to ignore or hide from Japan's rich sexual history...Geisha House embraces it. A feast for the eyes, the soul and of course, your taste buds. Brought to you by the famed Dolce Group comes this sensual hot spot that has both the stars and those who set the trend for the stars, in a Japanese tizzy.

Many find our events at Geisha House a lovely opportunity to bypass the front desk, any Hollywood attitude and enjoy the best the venue has to offer and oh yeah... find love while their at it. We consider ourselves quite fortunate to be invited to Geisha House to host our events and truly can not say enough wonderful things... but I'll try anyway.

Starting downstairs you enter through a red-painted wood hallway, arriving at a full-length mirror--a not-so-subtle hint at the see-and-be-seen posing to come. Inside, the prominent main bar's white-grid-enclosed plasma screens are a focal point from every vantage point. Further back, a three-tiered fireplace anchors the main dining room, which is lined with kimono-like swatches and a twig-enclosed private booth. My personal favorite part of the restaurant is upstairs in the Moon Room. Dreamy in the summer months and wintertime chic, relaxing under the heaters, the rest of the year. Although considering it's always LA summertime, I think you'll find it equally stunning any time of year.

I typically like to mention a few of my menu favorites, but quite honestly I can't pick a favorite. Their sushi is always in top form, their entree's as good as you would expect and the drinks... ahh... the drinks... are always just what the doctor ordered. The Shikomi cocktail is like a decadent spa beverage, with sake, midori, lemon and cucumber. Too many of those, and I assure you, the reflection in the above mentioned mirror will be quite different.
The valet can be a bit pricey on busy nights--save a few dollars by using the lot directly across the street on Cherokee.

Geisha House - Hollywood

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

Do You Have a Brit Connection?

This one comes straight from the heart - as anyone’s enthusiasm other than my own, simply would not do justice. Admittedly, I am partial – I love all things English, what can I say?

More so than usual, this time of year drifts me back home ; Christmas pudding, Mince pies, Quality Street, Christmas Crackers (no you don’t eat them!) and so many other favorites, really too many to mention…

For those of you that have not experienced the delight of British sundries; be it Christmas or the middle of Summer it’s always a good time for a cup of Tetley’s and a Penguin. What does all this mean I hear you cry!? For those of you that don’t know – ok the majority of people reading - that would be a cup of the best Tea in the world accompanied by an old favorite; chocolate Penguin bars! Please do take a look for yourself and allow me to introduce your one stop shop for fabulous British fare; The Brit Connection can be found athttp://www.thebritconnection.com/

Pamela and Michael are the lovely owners of this delightful shop – If there is something you want and don’t see it on the website – let them know! They will do their best to accommodate your request.

This Holiday Season, Speed USA Group would like to thank the Brit Connection for bringing us a little piece of home, from far across the pond.

Cheers!

The Brit Connection - Torrance

Written by: SpeedLA Dating