Find the best Los Angeles things to do for the weekend of 5.18.12

MUSIC + DANCE
Saturdays Off The 405: Dum Dum Girls
May 19. Enjoy outdoor music and evening views of the city along with summer exhibitions in a casual and spontaneous atmosphere. Kicking off the 2012 Saturdays Off the 405 series are the pop-rock darlings the Dum Dum Girls. Also performing: DJ Neil Schield, owner of Origami Vinyl spins from his impressive record collection. While you’re up there, check out the Spotlight After Dark Tours in the Herb Ritts: L.A. Style galleries. 6-9 p.m. 1200 Getty Center Drive, L.A., 310.440.7300. getty.edu

Through the Mic at LACMA
May 17. To kick off the series Through the Mic, 3MG reunites for their first performance together in more than five years. 3MG’s Murs, Eligh, and Scarub met as students at Los Angeles’s Hamilton High and released Gypsy’s Luck before joining forces with The Mystik Journeymen and The Grouch to form The Living Legends. 3MG went back to the studio in 2005 to record Grand Caravan to the End of the World and have since been on hiatus to work on solo projects. The local trio returns to the stage less than four miles from where it all began. KCRW DJ Dan Wilcox opens. Series continues Jun. 21, with Dumbfoundead with Medusa and Gizzle. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.857.6000. lacma.org

Plants and Animals
May 19. Plants and Animals’ latest release, The End of That, is palatable in both its slack-jawed poetry and innovative indie rock riffs. The album offers familiar paeans to lost youth, broken hearts and the desire to make art out your ashes. It’s some heady stuff on the page, but the music never gets bogged down in the slightest. “Well holy matrimony! / Everyone is gettin’ married or breaking up / And the stroller situation on the sidewalk is way out of control!” Kicks off the third track Crisis! a toe-tapper of life’s myriad contradictions. Their sound lands somewhere between The Rolling Stones’ Let It Bleed and Wilco’s Yankee Hotel Fox Trot. Think those are some big shoes to fill? Better catch them while you can in a small venue like The Satellite. $10-$12. 1717 Silverlake Blvd., Silver Lake. thesatellitela.com

Mozart / da Ponte Trilogy: Don Giovanni
May 18, 20, 24, 26. Gustavo Dudamel leads the Los Angeles Philharmonic in the first installment of a three-year Mozart/Da Ponte opera project at downtown’s Walt Disney Concert Hall. Its production team includes architect Frank Gehry and couture designers Kate and Laura Mulleavy of Rodarte. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 323.850.2000. laphil.com

LA Boheme
May 20. LA Opera presents Giacomo Puccini’s classic love story about four young artists living in poverty together in a Paris garret, circa 1830. The production stars Ailyn Pérez and Stephen Costello-married in real life—as young lovers Mimi and Rodolfo. 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.972.8001. laopera.com

Music Center
May 18-19. Start your weekend with live bands and DJs on downtown’s only open air dance floor at 80s night. Then continue on Saturday at a free performance and art-making workshop series that celebrates artistic traditions from around the globe. experience native Hawaiian dance and music by Halau O’ Keikiali i. Featuring dance and music linked to ancestral heritage, the company dazzles audiences with authentic footwork and mesmerizing melodies in this celebration of Hawaiian culture. 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown. musiccenter.org

EVENTS
Amgen Tour of California’s “Nissan Ride Before the Pros”
May 20. For the first time in the Amgen Tour of California’s history, cycling fans and enthusiasts have the opportunity to participate in the Amgen Tour of California by riding on the actual race course just prior to the eighth and final stage of the 750-mile, Tour de France-style competition. The ‘Nissan Ride Before the Pros’ event taking place in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday May 20, 2012 from 8-9:30 a.m., allows cyclists of all levels to ride on a 5-mile, closed-circuit course that will be part of the 2012 Amgen Tour of California’s eighth and final stage taking place that same day. Free to participants of all experience levels, the ‘Nissan Ride Before the Pros’ begins and ends at the official finish line where the professional riders competing in the 2012 Amgen Tour of California will cross to complete the 42.6-mile stage they started in Beverly Hills on Rodeo Drive earlier in the day. You must register prior to the event on the Amgen Tour of California website at amgentourofcalifornia.com/nissan. Participants must be over the age of 18 or receive permission from a parent or legal guardian.

Bug Fair
May 19-20. Cradle a bug or two in your palms and learn about the homes and habits of a wide variety of roaming insects from Entomology Curator Dr. Brian Brown (one of the Museum’s fly experts). Experts will also be on hand to answer bug-related questions. Also find exhibitors, displaying everything from live specimens to bug-related products, such as honey, silk, and wax as well as bug-inspired artwork. 900 Exposition Blvd., downtown, 213.763.3466. nhm.org

Hudson Block Party
May 20. White Rabbits top off a stellar lineup of 25 bands and DJs showcased at the second annual block party. Other highlights include four full bars, 30 vendors and lots of eats from The Hudson and The Churchill. $10/before 2 p.m.; $15 after. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. 1114 North Crescent Heights Blvd., West Hollywood. on.fb.me/KmvLOT

Santa Monica Festival
May 19. 21st annual festival features highlights including performances by Dustbowl Revival, La Santa Cecilia, Lux Aeterna and Vaud and The Villains, fitness classes, eco-friendly workshops and a Santa Monica Farmers Market “Chef Challenge” cooking competition. Other offerings include a culinary stage with cooking demos; more than a dozen food trucks; market place and eco zone. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Clover Park, 2600 Ocean Park Blvd., Santa Monica. smgov.net/festival

Venice Art Walk & Auctions
May 19-20. The self-proclaimed “original L.A.-area art walk” celebrates creativity with studio and artist-in-residence tours, gallery shows, art auctions, artist meet-and-greets and live entertainment. Proceeds benefit the Venice Family Clinic. May 19, 6 pm. Artist studio (noon–3 pm), architecture tours (noon–4 pm), and silent auction and post-party (3–7 pm): May 20. $50–$125. theveniceartwalk.org

Apt2B Pop-Up Shop
Through May 31. Your favorite one-stop online furniture, design and housewares store celebrates their first anniversary with a pop-up shop at Alpha. This is the first time you’ll be able to see things in person that have only ever been featured online. On May 19, Broke Girl’s Guide will be hosting an afternoon of shopping, discounts, and light bites; in addition to that mobile shops: Le Fashion Truck, Bath Petals and B Sweek Mobile will be parked outside. Stop by for exclusive in-store specials and to get dibs on several new furniture pieces and other additions to the Apt2B brand. Apt2B also offers their virtual online happy hour in the pop-up space every friday from 3-7 p.m. 8654 Melrose Ave., L.A. Apt2B.com

ART
Rebel
Through Jun. 23. Exhibition—conceived by James Franco to embrace and mine the main themes and events in the original Rebel Without A Cause—reinterprets the film’s legends, people behind-the-scenes footage and more, in a new, unconventional presentation of film, video installation, photography, painting, drawing, and sculpture. The exhibition is housed in and framed by iconic, Hollywood structures. Tues.-Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 941 North Highland Ave., Hollywood. moca.org

EAT | DRINK
Smog City at The Triple
May 21. To celebrate the culmination of American Craft Beer Week, Tustin, CA-based craft brewery Smog City Brewery and The Tripel team up for a night of big brews and fantastic food. The evening kicks off with a cocktail beer hour, followed by a special four-course tasting menu featuring highlights like beet pasta with wild boar ragout, black bread with rabbit and more. Each course will be paired with a limited edition Smog City beer. $65/pp. 6:30-9 p.m. 333 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey, 310.821.0333. thetripel.com

Dominick’s Crawfish Boil
Saturdays in May. Celebrated West Hollywood Italian eatery Dominick’s brings back a festive local favorite: its annual crawfish boils. Drawing upon his New Orleans heritage, chef Brandon Boudet takes over the eatery’s patio on Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. to boil 300 pounds of Louisiana crawfish. In addition to the crawfish, available for $10.99 per pound, diners can enjoy a selection of Boudet’s Big Easy-inspired dishes, including Po’ Boy sub sandwiches, Creole boiled artichokes with remoulade and Dominick’s Dago red and white wines by the bottle. For dessert, the chef offers New Orleans Sno Balls—snow cones drizzled with house-made syrups—in multiple flavors, served with an optional shot of Old New Orleans spiced rum. Space is limited; reservations for the crawfish boils are recommended. 8715 Beverly Blvd., L.A., 310.652.2335. dominicksrestaurant.com

THEATER
Follies
Through Jun. 9. A 28-piece orchestra and a cast of 41 bring to life the Broadway production about two couples remembering their past and facing the harsher realities of the present. The show is at the Ahmanson Theatre downtown for a six-week run. Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772. centertheatregroup.org

The Heiress
Through May 20. Catherine Sloper, who stands to inherit a fortune from her ailing physician father, is a plain-looking young woman living under his malevolent scrutiny, as well as his well-meaning but cold-hearted demeanor. Dr. Sloper disapproves of Catherine’s passionate suitor Morris Townsend, certain that the penniless young man has proposed marriage to win Catherine’s inheritance. Catherine’s too much in love to consider this potential betrayal. Pasadena Playhouse, 39 S. El Molino Avenue, Pasadena, 626.356.7529. Click here: pasadenaplayhouse.org to use code HEPC10 for 10% off tickets.

The Convert
Through May 19. he Center Theatre Group commissioned Obie Award-winning playwright Danai Gurira to write this powerful new play about a teenage girl in colonial southern Africa torn between family and faith. Kirk Douglas Theatre, 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 213.628.2772. centertheatregroup.org

The Bungler
Through May 27. The Bungler is comic genius. Moliere’s first romp written in verse, and one of the greatest hits of his lifetime. This rarely produced gem is a non-stop cavalcade of wily servants, dim-witted young lovers and avaricious old men on a bumbling, tumbling, tackling, wild and woolly ride. A Noise Within, 3352 East Foothill Blvd., Pasadena, 626.356.3100 x1. ANoiseWithin.org

From music to microbrews and even fun for younger music fans, Orange County’s premier beachside blues festival entertains the entire family.

Usher in summer with groovy tunes on the sandy shore at the 15^thAnnual Doheny Blues Festival May 19-20. Held at Doheny State Beach, the festival is regarded as one of the top blues music events in the nation and features two main stages plus a third stage known as The Backporch, housed in a tree-lined bowl that creates an intimate setting for music throughout the weekend. Guests can also enjoy an international food court, a wine lounge, microbrew sampling, an eclectic vendor village with more than 50 unique booths and a Kidz EcoFest with educational exhibits for the younger music fans. This year’s lineup presents performances from 20 renowned blues musicians including headliners The Steve Miller Band and Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame musician Gregg Allman. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, (949) 360-7800. omegaevents.com

Find the best San Diego things to do this weekend

SPORTS
Padres Baseball 

May 18-20. The Padres face off against the Los Angeles Angels in three home games this weekend. Friday’s game is 70s night, so come in your best disco garb. Attendees on Saturday will take home a rally towel. Games are at 7:05p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 1:05 p.m. on Sunday. Petco Park, 100 Park Blvd., downtown. 619.795.5000. padres.com


Drew Brees Celebrity Golf Championship

May 18-20. Drew Brees, Ray Romano, Darren Sproles, Trevor Hoffman, Bruce Jenner, Alan Thicke and dozens of other celebrity golfers are signed up to participate in this 14th annual tournament. The Drew Brees Celebrity Championship is comprised of a celebrity-amateur tournament on Friday and Saturday, and a 36-hole celebrity competition on Saturday and Sunday. Participants are vying for a $100,000 total purse and the coveted Drew Brees Celebrity Championship trophy. La Costa Resort and Spa, 2100 Costa Del Mar Road, Carlsbad. 858.836.0133. celebritychampionship.com



FESTIVALS
North Park Festival of the Arts 

May 20. The historic, eclectic and charming commercial district of North Park comes together for an ideal weekend adventure full of art, culture, shopping and culinary treats from some of San Diego’s hippest chefs. The juried arts area will feature more than 40 artists selling original artwork across a spectrum of mediums. The craft beer block returns to Ohio Street with craft beer and boutique wines native to Southern California. Between art viewings and beer tastings, enjoy live performances on six different stages. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The festival is free, access to the beer garden is $30. University Ave. between 30th and 32nd streets, North Park. 619.294.2501. northparkfestivalofarts.com


Sicilian Festival

May 20. Dedicated to preserving Sicilian and Italian culture and heritage, this 19th annual cultural festival highlights music, dancing and art vendors. The Sicilian Cultural Pavilion features a wide variety of artists and historians showcasing their Italian pride. Nosh on authentic Sicilian cuisine and enjoy real Italian and Sicilian entertainment on four stages offering everything from opera to comtemporary music. The festival also includes a children’s area, a Peroni beer and wine tent, a car show and a grape stomp. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. India Street, Little Italy, 619.469.2206. sicilianfesta.com

MUSIC
Peter Cetera

May 18-19. Best known as an original member and lead singer of the band Chicago, Peter Cetera will sing favorites such as “Wishing You Were Here,” “Baby, What a Big Surprise” and the worldwide smash hit, “If You Leave Me Now.” As a solo artist, Cetera has created his own string of hits including “Glory of Love,” “One Good Woman” and “You’re The Inspiration.” Hear new and old favorites in this City Lights season finale. $20-80. San Diego Symphony at Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., downtown, 619.235.0804. sandiegosymphony.org

EVENTS
Cocktails & Couture

May 25. Celebrity fashion designer Lizz Russell will be in the Westgate’s Grand Lobby during Cocktails and Couture to help you discover your own style. Special guest models will showcase her signature creations while guests enjoy live entertainment, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. $25/pp. Westgate Hotel’s Grand Lobby, 1055 2nd Avenue, San Diego. 619.238.1818. westgatehotel.com


Strawberry Jam

May 19. Bring the family out for a fun spring day on the farm and load up on some delicious fruit. Strawberry Jam is the latest in Suzie’s Farm’s U-Pick events, where farm visitors can roam the property and pick their own fruit. The Big Decisions will be performing live bluegrass music and Green Truck will be on site selling prepared meals, so bring a picnic blanket and made a day of it. Take home your bounty at $2.50/pound. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Suzie’s Farm, 1856 Saturn Boulevard, San Diego. 619.662.1780. suziesfarm.com

THEATRE
The Dirty Blonde

May 17-Jun. 17. Before Lady Gaga and before Madonna, there was Mae West. “I made myself platinum, but I was born a dirty blonde,” West once said, inspiring this Tony Award nominated show. Dirty Blonde follows Jo, an aspiring actress, who admires Mae West for her determination to beat the odds. On her annual pilgrimage to West’s gravesite, she meets Charlie, a film librarian and Mae West devotee. These two shy fans end up finding their own self-confidence and romance in their shared love of this entertainment icon. Cygnet Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525. cygnettheatre.com 

Hands on a Hardbody
Through Jun. 17. It’s been a tough year for the ten strangers competing for a new hardbody truck, but now their fate is literally in their own hands. Over the course of 144 hours they will laugh, cry and push their bodies and minds to the limits as they fight to keep at least one hand on a brand new truck. The contestant with the most nerve will drive away with the American Dream. Hands on a Hardbody features a brilliant score from Amanda Green and Trey Anastasio, along with staging by Black Swan’s Benjamin Millepied. La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla. 858.550.1010. lajollaplayhouse.org

Cirque Wings

May 19. Let your imagination run wild with this magical journey that explores the human fascination with flight from ancient times to modern days. The incredible story is told through amazing circus acts such as trapeze, aerial dance, flying on fabric, contortion, acrobatics, comedy, various styles of dance and much more. Cirque Wings features an amazing cast of former Cirque du Soleil super stars from shows including “Saltimbanco,” “O” and “La Reve.” Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Avenue, San Diego. 619.570.1100. sandiegotheatres.org

The Scottsboro Boys

Through Jun. 10. Based on the notorious 1930s Scottsboro case, this inspiring tale tells story of the nine unjustly accused African-American men whose lives would eventually spark the Civil Rights Movement. This daring and wildly entertaining new musical explores the pivotal moment in American history with arresting originality, innovative staging and a breathtaking score. Old Globe Theatre, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.23.GLOBE. oldglobe.org

For the omnivore listener in you, Montreal-based up-n-coming band, Plants and Animals, ought to whet just about all of your appetite. See them at the Satellite in Los Angeles on May 19.

Plants and Animals’ latest release, The End of That, is palatable in both its slack-jawed poetry and innovative indie rock riffs. The album offers familiar paeans to lost youth, broken hearts and the desire to make art out your ashes. It’s some heady stuff on the page, but the music never gets bogged down in the slightest. “Well holy matrimony! / Everyone is gettin’ married or breaking up / And the stroller situation on the sidewalk is way out of control!” Kicks off the 3rd track Crisis! a toe-tapper of life’s myriad contradictions. Their sound lands somewhere between The Rolling Stones’ Let It Bleed and Wilco’s Yankee Hotel Fox Trot. Think those are some big shoes to fill? Better catch them while you can in a small venue like The Satellite. $10-$12. 1717 Silverlake Blvd., Silver Lake. thesatellitela.com

The Satellite is just one of the top music venues in Los Angeles. Check out WhereLA.com’s Top 20 Venues for Live Music in Los Angeles.

Maggie Q, Photo credit: ©2011 The CW Newtowrk, LLC

The Angelina Jolie of the small screen, Maggie Q, 32, has proved that she can hold her own with the very best action stars in the genre. Check out her favorite things to do in Los Angeles.

With her starring role as a former assassin on the CW drama Nikita, plus film roles opposite Bruce Willis in Live Free or Die Hard and Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible III, Maggie Q has established herself a force to be reckoned with. The Coldwater Canyon resident teased what’s to come in the season finale of Nikita (“There will be death,” she says) and chatted about the healthy, active lifestyle that’s lent itself to her butt-kicking roles—not to mention a rocking body. —Jessica Radloff

How did the nickname Maggie Q come about?
I started my career in Asia. I’m Vietnamese, but I’m also half Irish and Polish. The Asian community couldn’t pronounce my last name [Quigley] because it’s so Irish. They named me Maggie Q in all the papers. So it began…. I had no choice in it! [Laughs.]

Do you think having a unique name has helped you be remembered in the industry?
I can’t say. I only know that my theater friends call it my porn name.

You began your acting career in Hong Kong. What made you decide to move from your native Hawaii to Hong Kong and then to L.A.?
I was a broke student with very few options. I was lucky a friend brought me with her on a trip to Asia. It was so exciting as I had barely left the island as a kid. I was [instantly] hooked. I had to explore and never thought it would have led me to entertainment. In 2005, I was cast in Mission: Impossible III, which brought me back to the States.

Are there any action stars you’d like to work with?
Maybe Zoe Saldana. I think she’s beautiful and smart, and such a wonderful actress—very believable. She’s an example of [someone who is] furthering females in the genre, too.

You won the title of “Best Bod” in your senior year of high school. How do you stay active?
Ha! Well, I suppose in high school having a little boy body is what was in, because I was just an athlete! Definitely not hot at all! It makes me laugh. I really only do yoga. And I take advantage of all the hiking in L.A.

Who do you see for your beauty needs?
Louise Deschamps and Cristina Radu [for facials]. You would be lucky to know them, but good luck getting an appointment!

You’re a vegetarian and an animal-rights activist. Does that inform where you like to eat?
I do choose restaurants based on where they source and a variety of vegetarian options. Cru in Silver Lake is great. I also like RFD (Real Food Daily), Cafe Gratitude, Madeleine Bistro in Encino, Sun Cafe, The Vegan Plate and Vegan World in Studio City. These are all perfect examples of compassionate, natural, sustainable, incredibly delicious eating!

You’re also an animal lover. You’ve rescued dogs, right?
I have three rescues, named Lady, Pedro and Cesar. Two are 14, and one is 10.

Do you have any favorite pet boutiques?
Maxwell Dog in Studio City is the best dog store on the planet. And even better is Jillian who works there. I want to squeeze her every time I go there!

DETAILS
Cafe Gratitude 639 N. Larchmont Blvd., L.A., 323.580.6383 Cristina Radu European Skincare 8712 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.855.0888 Cru 1521 Griffith Park Blvd., Silver Lake, 323.667.1551 Madeleine Bistro 18621 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana, 818.758.6971 Maxwell Dog 12336 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.505.8411 Real Food Daily 414 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.289.9910 Sun Cafe 3711 Cahuenga Blvd., Studio City, 818.308.7420 The Vegan Plate 11943 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.506.9015 Vegan World 11044 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.985.9544

Mixologists at the best Orange County cocktail destinations reveal what turns them on—and off— when it comes to cocktails.

By Benjamin Epstein

How do mixologists come up with their cocktails? What on others’ lists irks them? And what’s on the horizon? We ponder these questions while sipping such concoctions as Flower Power and Belly of the Beast at our favored five cocktail destinations; their mixologists provide the answers. First, alphabetically by venue, some background.

Andrei’s Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails in Irvine offers striking decor, conscientiously created American fare by French chef Yves Fournier and globally inspired cocktails. Cocktail picks: Algerian Boulevard, with Absolut citron vodka, blackberries, lemon juice, basil leaves, agave nectar, ginger ale splash; Chilean Spice, with spicy citrus-infused vodka, muddled orange, agave nectar, lime, homemade sweet ‘n’ sour.

Chef Amar Santana has opened Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach, offering sophisticated American fare and two cocktail menus: house and classic. Picks: Sergio Leone No. 2, with Bulleit rye whiskey, Luxardo morlacco, Averna amaro, mesquite smoke infused and sage-leaf garnish; Hops and Gin, with Dutch-style, Gran Classico bitters, grapefruit and lemon juices, agave nectar, IPA and grapefruit-peel garnish.

Chapter One, a library-themed spot in Santa Ana, presents novel American cuisine and an eclectically inspired Culinary Cocktails list. Picks: Belly of the Beast, with house-made bacon bourbon, Luxardo cherry liqueur, Dolin vermouth and Kampot peppercorn tincture; Ridin’ the Night Train, with Aviation gin, blackberry liqueur, allspice dram and velvet falernum.

Chic and stylish Charlie Palmer at Bloomingdale’s South Coast Plaza offers exceptional modern American dishes by chef Sea Kyeong Kim and elegant cocktails to match. Picks: Vino Fresco, with Grey Goose vodka, basil, grapes and lime; Blood Orange Mojito, with Bacardi rum, lime, blood orange, mint and soda.

Stellar Cal-French cuisine by Chef Craig Strong at Studio, at the Montage Resort & Spa in Laguna Beach, deserves stellar cocktails; many are made with fruits, vegetables and herbs from the garden that is steps from the door. Picks: Spicy Ginger, with Bols genever, ginger beer, crushed jalapeños, velvet falernum and sparkling water; Kentucky Reserve, with Woodford Reserve bourbon, kumquats, tarragon, raw sugar and a splash of ginger ale.

THE MIXOLOGISTS
Andrei’s owner Natalia Olenicoff
Broadway Gabrielle Dion, Ricky Yarnell
Chapter One owner Jeff Hall, chef Ryan Velilla
Studio Tashina Bross

Where does a new cocktail begin?
Olenicoff/Andrei’s: Travel. Many of of our drinks are named for places where I’ve been inspired by the flavors and spices. It starts with one ingredient I’m struck by. The fun part is finding what complements it, trying different concoctions. Our new Flower Power uses Buzz Buttons, tiny edible flowers that create a tingling sensation in the mouth, like Pop Rocks–a real conversation starter on a date! It’s like cooking–we look at dynamic flavors and use them in unexpected ways.

Bross/Studio: Passion! Desire! The right ingredients! The Studio garden is 20 feet from my bar, so I always have fresh herbs and fruits and vegetables to inspire me. I love to see what others are doing. The presentations–a copper mug from the 1930s, a sugar cube and flame, the edible pansy. People say, “Whoa, what is that, what are those people drinking?” I recently saw a Moscow Mule at Broadway in a copper mug, and I said, “All right, let me have one!”

Whorley/Charlie Palmer: Fresh ingredients. A mental picture– sitting on a patio, being on a beach. That might lead to citrus and cucumber, light and refreshing. Very different pictures for the late-night cocktails–dark liquors, brandied cherries, burnt oranges, actually lighting the orange zest….

Velilla/Chapter One: A new ingredient, the season, something I smell in the kitchen. Sometimes nothing more than a play on words and I flip into creative mode.

Where do you go from there?
Hall/Chapter One: We want every drink to have a three-part complexity, to drink like a wine. You’ve got your initial flavor, a middle where it develops, and a great lingering finish. That concept helps us when a cocktail is not quite there yet–it might start out great, but the finish is blah. It’s our litmus test in determining when it’s ready to be one of our Culinary Cocktails.

What are your pet peeves on others’ lists?
Velilla: Simple syrup is in every drink. Fruity-beachy-omigosh-this-is-undrinkable drinks. No natural ingredients. You want raspberry? Bam, raspberry syrup! That bothers me.

Hall: I want the bar to up to the level of the bar list. they offer classic Prohibition cocktails, then they slam them together and dump them out like a factory. I love that the [Prohibition-cocktail] movement is permeating the corporate chains. I don’t love that the drinks end up being kiddie-frou-frou. If you don’t have the right tools, or respect, or right glass for that cocktail, why bother?

Whorley: They don’t use brandied cherries for a Manhattan, just maraschino cherries like a Shirley Temple. Or just doing the standard, citrus and liquor and nothing else.

Bross: The same thing all the time. Lemon drop, Red Bull and vodka–same ingredients, different name. You don’t need to be a bartender to put those together!

Gabrielle Dion/Broadway: The pointless mixing of base spirits. There has to be meaning behind it–not because it sounds cool.

What trends are you embracing?
Dion: We hand-juice every single day. That’s a corner a lot of places cut–some places juice at the beginning of the week and use it all week!

Ricky Yarnell/Broadway: Cocktails on draft. Carbonate it, put it in a stainless-steall keg, dispense it from a tap. Ours is the first in Orange County for sure.

El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles.

No matter how obscure your musical preferences, you can find your groove in one of the diverse Los Angeles live-music venues. Here are our top 20 Los Angeles live-music music destinations, in no particular order.

 By Katie McCarthy

HOLLYWOOD BOWL
There might not be any concert-going experience so quintessentially L.A. as a night at the Hollywood Bowl. Whether the evening’s program includes a headlining rock band or the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Playboy Jazz Festival or the KCRW World Festival, the Bowl becomes a gathering place hours before showtime when attendees swarm the grounds for picnicking. 2301 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.850.2000. HollywoodBowl.com

EL REY THEATRE
A stone’s throw from Museum Row on the Miracle Mile, the art deco El Rey Theatre is a stunner, from its nostalgic neon signage to the grand chandelier-lighted ballroom. El Rey has a knack for booking artists on the cusp of mainstream stardom, giving fans the chance to see artists such as Lana Del Rey in a relatively small setting before they graduate to bigger venues. 5515 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.936.6400. theelrey.com

VIBRATO GRILL JAZZ
Herb Alpert’s Bel Air supper club projects the kind of retro classiness that might fool you into thinking it’s been here for decades. Live jazz performances, Tuesday through Sunday, are accompanied by an upscale American menu of steaks, seafood and nostalgic sides such as creamed spinach. More famous performers may mean a nominal cover charge. 2930 Beverly Glen Circle, Bel Air, 310.474.9400. vibratogrilljazz.com

STAPLES CENTER
When the Lady Gaga and Justin Beiber-types of the music industry perform in Los Angeles, they do it at the Staples Center downtown, one of the biggest arenas in town with 20,000 seats. And if your ideal concert includes pyrotechnics, costume changes, dancers and/or earth-shaking volume, you won’t be disappointed if you buy a ticket to a show here. 1111 S. Figueroa St., downtown, 213.742.7326. staplescenter.com

THE SATELLITE
The erstwhile Spaceland in Silver Lake has begun a second act as the Satellite. Despite the name change, this dive is still a fixture of the Eastside music community. (It helped launch the careers of Elliott Smith and Beck, among others.) The Satellite books acts popular with the Pitchfork-reading set, such as Magic Wands and Gauntlet Hair. (Most shows are for patrons 21 and older.) 1717 Silverlake Blvd., Silver Lake, 323.661.4380. thesatellitela.com

THE WILTERN
Named for its cross streets, Wilshire Boulevard and Western Avenue, the Wiltern was built in the glamorous art deco style, and headliners such as Wilco and the White Stripes’ Jack White stop here. Vertically challenged concertgoers appreciate the balcony seating and multiple levels of standing room, making a view of the stage possible even from the back of the theater. 3790 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 213.388.1400. livenation.com

LARGO AT THE CORONET
Largo at the Coronet in midtown has a charmingly informal vibe; it only recently began to offer a formal ticketing system. Certain local performers treat the Largo as their second home; Jon Brion plays monthly, occasionally bringing collaborator Fiona Apple with him. Comedians such as Russell Brand appear frequently, too. 366 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.855.0350. largo-la.com

THE ORPHEUM THEATRE
In the mid-20th century, the Broadway Theater District downtown boasted the grandest movie palaces in the city. One of the few that have been restored is the Orpheum. The theater’s Wurlitzer pipe organ is still operational, but these days you’re more likely to find entertainment in the form of film screenings or pop concerts. 842 S. Broadway, downtown, 877.677.4386. laorpheum.com

HOLLYWOOD PALLADIUM
When the Hollywood Palladium opened its doors, the first act to appear was Frank Sinatra; it reopened in 2008 with a Jay-Z show. Music trends may have changed in the past 50 years, but the Palladium’s retro-glam good looks and ability to attract top-notch performers haven’t. 6215 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, 323.962.7600. livenation.com

AVALON HOLLYWOOD
For house-music aficionados, Avalon Hollywood is dance and DJ central Thursday through Saturday. Upstairs from the main venue is Bardot, a hip French-inspired bar and lounge with its own free shows featuring DJs and rock bands. Monday’s regular “School Night” is a winner; recent performers have included A Fine Frenzy and Kimbra. 1735 N. Vine St., Hollywood, 323.462.8900. avalonhollywood.com

WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL
L.A.’s most iconic music hall opened in 2003, its design (by architect Frank Gehry) inspired by a sailing ship, and its acoustics nonpareil. It’s a fitting home for the Los Angeles Philharmonic, one of the most innovative orchestras in the world. The hall is also used for pop and rock concerts to inspiring effect; past collaborations have included Death Cab for Cutie sharing the stage with members from Magik*Magik Orchestra. 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 323.850.2000. laphil.com

HOUSE OF BLUES
The House of Blues isn’t unique to Los Angeles County, but West Hollywood’s Sunset Strip music scene wouldn’t be the same without this faux-ramshackle venue. One night might bring a head-banging metal band, followed by a rafter-raising Gospel Brunch the next morning. 8430 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.848.5100. houseofblues.com

CLUB NOKIA
If the mammoth Staples Center at the L.A. Live entertainment center downtown doesn’t appeal, look to Club Nokia a few steps away—comparatively tiny with its 2,300-person capacity, but with similar pop-radio players you’d see at Staples. Three bars and a sleek lounge create inviting environments to cool your heels between sets. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.765.7000. clubnokia.com

TROUBADOUR
Myriad musicians have recorded live albums at the Troubadour—including three who named their albums Live at the Troubadour. It’s a favorite stop for musicians who live in L.A. and even those who don’t; arena headliners such as as Prince and Coldplay have come here to preview new material. Small enough to lend intimacy to the ballads of a singer-songwriter, but big enough for a raucous rock show, the Troubadour is a treasure. 9081 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, 877.435.9849. troubadour.com

THE ECHO / ECHOPLEX
The Echo and its downstairs counterpart, Echoplex, compete with the Satellite to book the hottest super-indie bands of the moment. Hipsters abound, but they’re not too cool to dance at the regular “Bootie L.A.” nights, featuring DJs spinning rock and pop mash-ups. 1822 Sunset Blvd.; 1154 Glendale Blvd., Silver Lake. 213.413.8200. attheecho.com

CANTER’S KIBITZ ROOM
Like your matzo ball soup with a side of indie rock? Then visit the music lounge attached to 80-year-old Canter’s Deli, the Kibitz Room—the divey-est, strangest little club and bar in town. It has a history with rock ‘n’ roll royalty: The Doors, Frank Zappa and Joni Mitchell kibbitzed and jammed here. These days, neighborhood bands and karaoke nights are the main attractions. 419 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.651.2030. cantersdeli.com

GREEK THEATRE
The Greek Theatre has many of the Hollywood Bowl’s stellar qualities: an outdoor amphitheatre with excellent natural acoustics in a beautiful setting. The Greek’s size (fewer than 6,000 seats) is far from overwhelming, and amid the towering pine trees of Griffith Park, the venue is even a little romantic. 2700 N. Vermont Ave., Griffith Park, 323.665.5857. greektheatrela.com

AMOEBA MUSIC
The flailing music industry hasn’t seemed to affect Amoeba Music, the independent record store in Hollywood where you can find gaggles of scenesters picking through rare vinyl from morning to night. A stage in the back of the store hosts free concerts from nationally known acts (Otis Clay and the aforementioned Lana Del Rey) as well as some local musicians and DJs on the rise. 6400 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, 323.245.6400. amoeba.com

HARVELLE’S
“Intimate” is the word at Harvelle’s, downtown Santa Monica’s gem of a jazz club. In a petite, narrow space with a bar and a smattering of tables, jazz, blues and soul bands play to respectfully hushed crowds. Another branch of Harvelle’s opened last year in Long Beach. 1432 4th St., Santa Monica, 310.395.1676; 201 E. Broadway, Long Beach, 562.239.3700. harvelles.com

HOTEL CAFE
Every L.A. singer-songwriter worth mentioning has probably paid her dues playing at Hotel Cafe in Hollywood. Although it helps to do your research about the performers, many play here so regularly that if you do stumble upon a local favorite, chances are he may just be back within the week. Rachael Yamagata played here in her early solo career. (Note: All shows are for people 21 and older.) 1623 1/2 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, 323.461.2040. hotelcafe.com

Tired of the traditional Gaslamp nightclub? Ginger’s is changing the downtown lounge experience.

Get away from the Gaslamp by going underneath it. Escape to Ginger’s, a classic martini bar now open below Barleymash in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter. Ginger’s is a sophisticated underground lounge that offers classic libations in a cozy, welcoming environment. Bring a friend for great conversation, or make some new ones among the diverse crowd and friendly bartenders. Built around the idea that nothing beats a martini, gin and vodka cocktails shine at this intimate venue. Whether you prefer a traditional dirty martini or something a bit more exotic, Ginger’s menu has something to tickle your tastebuds. DJs set the mood throughout the week. Located below Barleymash, 600 5th Avenue, San Diego. 619.255.7373. gingersgaslamp.com

Taking a page from traditional London gastropubs, Neighborhood serves up traditional pub fare with an upscale twist.

Inspired by the classic gastropubs of London, Neighborhood caters to the casual connoisseur. The straightforward menu mixes contemporary cooking techniques with traditional American dishes, while using only the freshest and boldest ingredients. From creative appetizers like popcorn with truffle butter and Parmesan cheese to mouthwatering burgers and other savory comfort foods, each dish is bursting with flavor. Don’t bother asking for ketchup — not only does Neighborhood not keep any on hand, you won’t need it. The selection of house-made sauces covers everything from raspberry aioli to smoked chipotle puree. Neighborhood also touts 27 craft microbrews on tap including a vast selection of locally brewed libations and an impressive array of whisky. 777 G Street, San Diego. 619.446.0002. neighborhoodsd.com‎

Enjoy premium salads and sandwiches in the fast-casual restaurant’s rustic-chic dining room or large, shady patio.

Greenleaf Gourmet Chopshop, a gourmet salad eatery from Los Angeles, opened to rave reviews at its first Orange County location on Costa Mesa’s bustling 17^th Street. Greenleaf’s menu features a wide variety of organic soups, salads, sandwiches, pizzas and entrees that pack in both nutrition and flavor. Enjoy the Zorra the Great, a Mediterranean-inspired salad filled with romaine and baby arugula, tomatoes, cucumber, feta, olives, red onion, fresh herbs, marinated artichokes and pita chips dressed with garlic herb vinaigrette with a generous serving of hummus at the bottom of the salad. For something more exotic, order the Lemongrass Chicken made with grilled chicken with mango, grilled pineapple, jicama, toasted coconut, cashews, Thai chili and Thai basil served over a bed of mixed greens and dressed with a light and flavorful lemongrass lychee vinaigrette. As for sandwiches, try the Turkey Melt, which was voted “Team Green Favorite.” Made with carved turkey, wilted greens, caramelized onions and Gruyere cheese melted between two soft pieces of pretzel bread, the kitchen is serious about this tasty creation and does not allow modifications! Compliment your meal with a tapped beer or a glass of wine from Greenleaf’s wine bar. The bartenders also sling soju cocktails such as the Sangria-licious, a refreshing concoction of grapes, apples, celery, mint, lemon and soju served in a charming Mason jar. Start your day at Greenleaf with nourishing grab-and-go options, fresh-pressed juices or specialty omelets and griddle items. Shop the adjoining marketplace for a selection gourmet goods, fresh produce and take out items to help maintain a healthy lifestyle on the go. 234 E. 17^th St., Costa Mesa, 949.200.3950. greenleafchopshop.com