Academy Awards weekend is Here! And we are dancing in the glitter and the glamour that Hollywood is dishing. One of our favorite events of the weekend is the Governors Ball held after the awards show at the Grand Ballroom on the top level of the Hollywood & Highland Center. Here is your exclusive preview of the food and decor of this year’s soiree.

Click HERE for More Photos

Video: Wolfgang Puck discusses the food he will serve at the Governors Ball.

Directly after the Awards, the ball will welcome 1,500 guests, who will sip Moet & Chandon Champagne and dine on a delicious menu created by Wolfgang Puck to the tune of an 18 piece all-female orchestra.

Hungry? Hors d’Oeuvres include:
• Tempura Shrimp and Lobser
• Mini Kobe Burgers with Aged Cheddar and Remoulade (we heard these were George Clooney’s favorite)
• Smoked Salmon Pizza with Caviar and Dill Creme
• Black Truffle & Ricotta Cheese Pizza
• Vegetable Spring Rolls with Sweet & Spicy Dipping Sauce
• Chicken Pot Stickers with Ginger Black Vinegar Dipping Sauce

For dinner Chef Wolfgang Puck will prepare a House Smoked Salmon, Potato Galette, Creme Fraiche and Baby Greens with Butler-passed Warm Brioche. Then guests will dive into Chicken Pot Pies with Yukon Gold Potatoes, Baby Heirloom Vegetables and Homemade Pastry Crust.

Dessert brings "L’Etoile de Oscar" a Baked Alaska with Espresso Glace, chocolate sorbet and toasted meringue.

 Decor in the ballroom will be reminiscent of the 1930s with a modern edge. charcoal iridescent taffeta with platinum and cognac matte satins will be over-layed with amethyst tulle and champagne glitter dot. Florals such as purple Lizzy-Anthus, Rothschild Orchids, aubergine rust Calla Lilies and Clearwater Roses will dress the tables.

Click here to plan your own Oscar party.

Photos by Greg Harbaugh / ©A.M.P.A.S.

Pernod Absinthe cocktails conceived and mixed to perfection by Eric Alperin at the Varnish: Our faves are the Sea Fizz (Pernod Absinthe, lemon, sugar, egg white, dash soda) • Death in the Afternoon (Pernod Absinthe, Champagne) • Remember the Maine (Rye, Heering, Dolin Rouge, Pernod Absinthe). 118 E. 6th St., downtown, 213.622.9999. www.thevarnishbar.com

Picturesque drive up PCH with a stop to hang out with the bikers and nosh oysters, fries and an Arrogant Bastard Ale at Neptune’s Net, 42505 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.457.3095. www.neptunesnet.com

Duck-Bacon-Jalapeno Sausage, Double dipped Belgian fries with Curry Ketchup and Chipotle Aioli washed down with Seasonal Spice ale at Wurstkuche 800 E. Third St., downtown 213.687.4444. www.wurstkucherestaurant.com

Hunting down the rare alienesque Romanesco cauliflower at the Sunday Hollywood Farmer’s Market. 1600 Ivar Ave., Hollywood, 323.463.3171. www.farmernet.com

Checking out a Lakers game from the new Hyde Lounge atop Staples Center. 111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.742.7326.

The Noodle Show—in which a chef hand-tosses Beijing noodles—at Mr. Chow. 344 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills, 310.278.9911.

Snacking on Salmon rillettes and the scrumptious cheese selection at Thomas Keller’s brasserie Bouchon. 235 N. Canon Dr., Beverly Hills, 310.271.9910.

Annette Bening David Arquette and Julian Sands commanding the Geffen Playhouse stage in the Female of the Species. 10886 Le Conte Ave., Westwood, 310.208.5454. www.geffenplayhouse.com

Getting pampered like a gentleman at The Shave of Beverly Hills. 310.888.2898. www.theshavebeverlyhills.com

Panoramic views from the valley, to downtown, all the way to the ocean from at the top of Dante’s Peak in Griffith Park. (Check out our Hollywood/Griffith Park City Tour)

WhereLA.com Valentine’s Day Dining Roundup

Chaya Brasserie Beverly Hills: For Uptown Lovers Recognized as the most romantic of all of the Chaya’s—Chaya Brasserie brings to mind a quaint brasserie in Paris complete with the perfect lighting, a charming atrium garden at the center of the dining room, and a menu meant for two including: Seafood Medley for two ($38) with Arare Popcorn Maine Lobster, Seared Scallop, and Ankimo Millefeuille that hit all of the right umami senses. Chaya Venice: A Romance in Venice Lovers can take a stroll along the Venice canals before heading over to Chaya Venice, the local spot in the neighborhood, where a couple can enjoy a Valentini Chocolate Martini or a Chaya Kiss followed by a menu that features Escargot en Cocotte for a match made in heaven. Chaya Downtown: For Downtown Lovers Whether catching a show at the theater downtown (Chaya Downtown offers complimentary shuttle service to and from the local downtown theaters for diners and will make all of the arrangements!) after a shared “Hot Pot” for two featuring Maine Lobster and Porcini Mushrooms for $62. www.thechaya.com

XIV Michael Mina’s L.A. outpost is romantic any night of the week, but especially for Valentine’s day they are offering an eight-course tasting menu (vegetarian options available) to the sound of live music. Find succulent samples of Michael’s Caviar Parfait, chilled Maine lobster, Nantucket Bay Scallops Tempura, and much, much more. Pick from three seatings 6 p.m., 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $135 pp. 8117 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.656.1414. xivla.com

Bistro LQ New L.A. bistro serves a three-course pre-fixe with numerous caviar selections and main courses that range from duck breast to Lamb Noisette. Two seatings are available 5:30 p.m.; 10 p.m. 8009 Beverly Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.951.1088. www.bistrolq.com

Vertical Wine Bistro Executive Chef Doug Weston and Resident “Wine Dude” David Haskell at Vertical Wine Bistro have developed a standout 5-course menu ($65 per person) Valentine’s Day diners also have the option of taking full advantage of Vertical Wine Bistro’s wine collection by adding Basic Wine Pairings for $55 per person or Deluxe wine Pairings for $135 per person. 70 N Raymond Ave, Pasadena, 626.795.3999. www.verticalwinebistro.com

Susie Cakes Bakery offers sweet specials all month long: Susie’s signature heart-shaped red velvet cake for two, Love Shack (a Gingerbread house decorated with conversation hearts, red hots, red & pink sprinkles, etc.) with personalized inscription, double crust cherry pie topped with heart cut-out, chocolate cream pie (available Feb. 12-14), chocolate-covered long stemmed strawberries (available Feb. 12-14), conversation heart sugar cookies with sayings such as “UR Cute” or “Kiss Me”, or conversation heart sugar cookie with personalized message, and “Makin’ Whoopie” Pie (available Feb. 12-14). www.susiecakesla.com

Orotolan Chef Christophe Eme offers specials all weekend long at this Michelin starred restaurant. Festivities start with Tango in Paris Friday, Valentine’s Eve dinner for two Saturday and a full brunch and dinner on Valentine’s day. Check out menus www.ortolanrestaurant.com. 8338 West 3rd St., West Hollywood, 310.653.3300.

Gordon Ramsay at the London West Hollywood Choose from two different dining experiences – both equally indulgent. Some of the menu items offered on Valentine’s Day include salad of seared bay scallops, dry aged beef tenderloin with spiced short rib jam, and Duck Consomme with foie gras tortellini, and many more luxurious options. Enjoy a five-course menu for $240 per couple from 5-7 p.m. or indulge in a seven course menu for $350 a couple from 8-10:30 p.m. 1020 N. San Vicente Blvd. West Hollywood, 310.358.7788. www.thelondonwesthollywood.com/gordon_ramsay

Napa Valley Grille Chef Joseph Gillard prepares a romantic rustic wine country-inspired pre-fixe menu ($50) featuring fresh seasonal bounty, locally-sourced produce and artisanal ingredients to make dishes such as Hearts of Palm saland, grilled asparagus soup, pan seared Lake Superior White Fish and Roasted Sonoma Rack of Lamb. (Guests can also order off the regular à la carte menu.) 1100 Glendon Ave., Westwood, 310.824.3322. www.napavalleygrille.com

HAVE A 3-WAY WITH ELEMENTS! Elements Catering, Café and Kitchen in Pasadena is offering three distinct ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year.  Whether you want to start the day with a cheerful Valentine’s brunch, have a carefree intimate and elegant meal at home, or get dressed up for a romantic evening of wining and dining, Elements has a menu for you and your special someone. www.elementskitchen.com

POURTAL’S 2-FOR-1 BUBBLY AND SECRET VALENTINES Whether you are two drinking as one or one drinking for two, Pourtal has a Valentine’s special to please both couples and singles. Santa Monica’s premiere wine bar is offering 2 for 1 glasses of bubbly on Valentine’s Day from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.  Choose from the featured selection of Marquis de Perlade Blanc de Blanc or a Kir Royale. Cupid will pass out “Secret Valentines”—guests who purchase bubbly or a tasting card will receive a free pour ranging from $2-8 on Pourtal’s Enomatic machines.  No reservations necessary.  Pourtal, 104 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.393.7693. www.pourtal.com

BITTER, PARTY OF 1 AT CHARLIE’S MALIBU Charlie’s Malibu is celebrating the Valentine’s Day festivities all weekend long with two designated nights. On Feb. 13, Charlie’s hosts “Bitter, Party of 1” for singles (“couples welcome, but we may mock them”). On Feb. 14, the mood switches to romantic for the couples. Both nights will feature a four-course chef’s tasting menu for $75 with $20 wine pairing supplement, along with the a la carte and lounge menus. The tasting menu includes dishes such as poached pear with herbed goat cheese and candied walnuts, filet mignon and lobster tail. DJ Kid Wycked from the Hard Rock in Las Vegas will be spinning tunes for the weekend from 9 p.m. until close on Saturday and Sunday. Charlie’s, 22821 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.456.3132. www.charliesmalibu.com

A table for two at The Edison includes two Rosebud Martinis, 1/2 dozen oysters and two Absinthe chocolates for $100. Swoon to the sounds of DJ Jonny Boy and The Nu Jazz Project. reservations: 213.613.0000. edisondowntown.com

Simon LA invites you to spend a passionate evening with your special Valentine. Cherish the day with a romantic dinner inspired by celebrity chef Kerry Simon. Choose items from their exclusive menu, such as creamy crispy king crab legs, kobe style ny strip steak, crusted yellowfin tuna, and more, including a special Valentine’s Day dessert for two. Kick it up a notch by combining your dining experience with a couple’s massage at LeSpa. R8555 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.358.3979 $$$ Map I12 www.simonlarestaurant.com

Pane e Vino Ristorante is offering a special Valentine’s Day menu this Friday, Saturday and Sunday! Visit online at www.panevinola.com. Pane e Vino is located at 8265 Beverly Blvd. in Los Angeles. 8265 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 323.651.4600 $$ Map I12 www.panevinola.com

Royal/T lovebirds can come by this Valentine’s Day with a special Japanese- and French-inspired 4-course pre-fixe menu ($60pp) with additional wine pairings for $20, served by the venue’s costumed maid servers. Set against the perfect romantic/gothic backdrop, patrons will be also be able to view “The Never Ending Story: Fairytale, Fantasy, Obsession” which explores the theme of fairytales, and their contemporary expression, fantasy. Royal/T, 8910 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 310.559.6300. www.royal-t.org

O Bar & Kitchen Celebrates with a three course pre-fixe with choices of Carlsbad Oysters, BLT with crispy pork belly, roasted chicken relleno with Anaheim chilis and goat cheese, Chocolate and Raspberry mouse heart. $55pp O Bar & Kitchen inside the O Hotel, 819 South Flower St., downtown, 213.623.9904 ext:105. www.ohotelgroup.com

Battling the torrential rains Friday, we sailed down to First Fridays at the Natural History Museum, where we were met by a towering Tyrannosaurus and Triceratops, lively atmosphere, well-stocked bars every few feet, plenty of halls to explore, and a performance by one of our favorite genre-bending up-and-coming bands, Yeasayer.

First Fridays offers extended museum hours, scientific discussions and custom curatorial tours. We caught Dr. Nate Lewis’ (recently named no. 17 on Rolling Stone’s top 100 people who are changing America) chat about sustainable energy and new developments on solar energy. You can download his presentation HERE.

We were lucky to be one of the 200 people admitted into the hall where Yeasayer and local indie-fem rockers Warpaint, who opened the show, performed. On the horizon of the release of Yeasayer’s highly anticipated and already lauded sophomore album Odd Blood (to be released Feb. 9), this was their only local tour date until Coachella, Apr. 16.

Amidst a family of polar bears and elephant seals, Yeasayer took the stage with the distorted din of “The Children” off Odd Blood and jumped into a few more songs from the album before blasting off hits “Wait For The Summer,” “Sunrise” and “Germs” from All Hour Cymbals (2007), energizing their fans to crowd-surfing proportions. Yeasayer closed with the two released singles off Odd Blood: the whimsical “Ambling Alp” and “ONE.”

The event completely surpassed our expectations. Hearing a live preview of Yeasayer’s up-coming album was a definite treat, we enjoyed checking out the numerous animal habitats drinks-in-hand, loved the discussion and look forward to getting a closer look at the Dyno Lab when we return.

Special thanks to Hayden Bennett for the Yeasayer photo.

Pasadena Playhouse benefit concert for Haiti

Mon., Feb. 1, 7:30 p.m.

Pasadena Playhouse is putting on a benefit concert for Haiti starring your favorite voices from productions such as Baby It’s You, Wicked, Sister Act, Camelot, Ray, and more. Also find raffles, prizes and refreshments. Festivities begin at 6 p.m, concert at 7:30 p.m. Pasadena Playhouse, 600 North Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena, 626.792.8672. www.pasadenaplayhouse.org

JACKIE CHAN, INTERNATIONAL FILM ICON, UNVEILS HIS WAX FIGURE LIKENESS IN PERSON

Mon., Jan. 11, 10 a.m.

Madame Tussauds Hollywood adds another stellar personality to its stable of stars immortalized in wax. Chan, star of star of “Rush Hour” and the upcoming “Little Big Soldier,” among other popular worldwide films, helps kicks off a month-long Chinese New Year’s Celebration as he unveils his figure in the courtyard on Hollywood Boulevard.

Chan, who’s fluent in multiple languages including Cantonese and Mandarin Chinese and will appear in person at Madame Tussauds Hollywood, joins the ranks of Alfred Hitchcock, Paul Newman and Humphrey Bogart, among many other film legends.

Madame Tussauds Hollywood salute to the Chinese New Year’s begins with the Jackie Chan event and culminates with the unveiling in February of a wax likeness of the late martial arts exponent and film star, Bruce Lee. 6933 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.798.1670 www.madametussauds.com/hollywood

Tiffany at Upright Cabaret
Oct. 27, 2009
Upright Cabaret presents an intimate evening with 80’s pop icon Tiffany. After years of chart topping success from her #1 smash hits “I Think We’re Alone Now” and “Could’ve Been” to her feel good dance singles like “Higher,” Pop Music Icon Tiffany presents a “back to the basics” intimate acoustic concert of Broadway Songs and Power Ballads. In addition to inventive cabaret, a welcoming staff dishes out charm, class and California cuisine. Table minimums apply. Upright Cabaret on Vermont, 1714 N. Vermont Ave., L.A. 310.652.5252. For more info, show times & tickets: www.uprightcabaret.com/events

PICASSO CERAMICS (1947-1969)
Oct. 9-Dec. 12

The Andrew Weiss Gallery presents this unprecedented exhibition of more than 50 rare ceramic works.

This exhibition represents one of the largest and comprehensive collections of Picasso ceramics to be offered by a private gallery. The collection spans over 20 years of ceramic works, from his first platters in 1947 to his last engraved plaques in 1969.

With these pieces, Picasso redefines the meaning of ceramics, and the very definition of art itself. The exhibition which includes drawings, etchings and lithographs exemplifies Picasso’s passion and life-long pursuit to explore and master all mediums. In addition, the exhibition will include important works by other 20th century masters, Salvador Dali, Joan Miro, Marc Chagall, and Henri Matisse.

Andrew Weiss Gallery, 179 South Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills. Mon-Sat. 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. or by appt. For more information call 310.246.9333 or e-mail info@andrewweiss.com.

Reserve Your Seat
Attend the live simulcast of Gustavo Dudamel’s Inaugural Concert on the Music Center Plaza

The Music Center celebrates the arrival of Gustavo Dudamel, incoming Music Director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, with a live simulcast of his Inaugural Concert, the opening of the 2009-10 LA Phil Season.

Gustavo Dudamel’s inaugural concert as Music Director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic is one of the great events in the history of the Music Center," said Stephen D. Rountree, President of the Music Center. "Rarely have we seen an arts figure as universally embraced as Gustavo and we are thrilled to work in partnership with the LA Phil to extend this wonderful celebration beyond the Walt Disney Concert Hall to an even larger community."

This simulcast takes place Thursday, Oct. 8, at 7 p.m. on the Music Center Plaza. Admission for this event is free, and reservation requests will be taken through the Music Center website: musiccenter.org, through Oct. 5 at 6 p.m. Reservation confirmations will be distributed through an e-mail public lottery, distributed via email on Tuesday, October 6. For more information, call 213.972.7211.

Pourtal offers free dog walking
Saturday, Aug. 15;
noon-3 p.m.
There’s never a better time to sip summer wines than on a Saturday afternoon, but it’s tough leaving Fido at home. Now you don’t have to when you grab a glass at Pourtal. Withany purchase, Pourtal offers to walk your dog for free. You can also always enjoy their dog-friendly patio and drink wine with your best friend at any time.

There’s plenty to taste right now too. This month Pourtal features a Bonny Doon Vineyards tasting tour. The first tour features three Bonny Doon Vineyard whites and one rose as well as four other whites from around the world; the second tour offer five Bonny Doon Vineyard reds and three other reds from Southern Rhone. Pourtal wine tasting bar, 104 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.393.7693. www.pourtal.com