Costero is a California bistro and bar that provides a wide range of delectable small plates, comforting soups and flavorful main courses that will have guests coming back for more. The man to credit the delicious dishes and wine pairings is Executive Chef Collin Smelser, an East Coast native who has embraces all good things that come from California farms and vineyards.
A true hidden gem so close to LAX, Costero is perfect for locals, groups of all sizes and solo travelers alike. Speaking of those large groups, the restaurant offers two fantastic options: one semi-private room that seats up to 10, and one private room complete with AV equipment and collapsible wall for up to 25 guests (pictured below). Both spaces are complimentary to use when reserved and the menu can be pre-selected.
Photo Credit: Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles
Our resident Food + Lifestyle Editor, Ely recently had the honor of experiencing a private media dinner which showcased Chef Collin’s tack for transforming casual ingredients into gorgeously and meticulously plated must try dishes.
First Course
Bellwether Farms Ricotta & County Line Harvest Bloomsdale Spinach Tortellini Paired with: Joel Gott Sauvignon Blanc
Second Course
Smoked Brandt Beef Short RIb Paired with: Daou Cabernet Sauvignon From Paso Robles
Surprise Course!
Olive Cake With Vanilla Bean & Candied Blood Oranges Paired with: a Hefeweizen with an orange slice
Third Course
California Cheese Plate Paired with: Justin Obtuse Port-Style Wine
More About Chef Smelser
Three years prior to joining Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel, Chef Smelser was executive sous and executive chef at the luxurious Chase Park Plaza, a luxury high-rise hotel in Downtown St. Louis, Mo. Highly accomplished, Chef Smelser’s wide repertoire of cooking includes infusing casual fare with deluxe flair and designing thrilling haute cuisine masterpieces, all with a definite Southern California focus on fresh, local ingredients with bold, inviting flavors. Every day he’s is in the kitchen, a new, stunning dish is created.
“We are trying to transform people’s perception of hotel restaurants,” says Chef Smelser. “When people come to dine at Costero or to grab a bite at the bar, we want them to have an elevated experience with gourmet dishes that they wouldn’t expect at a hotel. Instead of overwhelming diners with a huge menu selection, we have taken a different approach by carefully curating an exclusive menu with options that will entice one’s taste buds.” (Originally quoted from Food Newsfeed)
Photo Credit: Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles
The Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles has recently completed a multi-million dollar renovation which included plush updates to their 802 guest rooms and suites, heated outdoor pool, 24/7 fitness center and the Sheraton Club. SPG members enjoy 24/7 access to the Sheraton Club Lounge which includes complimentary continental breakfasts, even hors d’oeuvres and panoramic views of LAX. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service to and from the Los Angeles International Airport.
So be sure to recommend at the Sheraton Gateway the next time clients want to stay close to the airport and/or you’re in the mood of a delicious dinner after landing.
Costero California Bar & Bistro located at Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel 6101 West Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045 www.sheratonlax.com
While California feels like it’s always been her home, Hawaii, San Francisco, Las Vegas and the Philippines are just a few places Ely Anne has lived thus cultivating her lifelong appetite for finding, trying and sharing new adventures, especially through food and wellness activities. She loves how food can always bring people together – anywhere, any time – and that’s what fuels her passion for public relations and marketing. Ely finds it invigorating to have a hand in seeing brands thrive in their community by using her PR, marketing and event production skills. She is also a regular Editor for SoCal Magazine and other digital publications.
Las Vegas has long been an easy, quick playground destination for Angelenos and Southern Californians alike. We love their nightlife, endless attractions, cuisine, and glamour, but mostly how the city constantly works hard at keeping things modern and ahead of the curve in offerings of entertainment. Palms Casino Resort has just about completed a $485 million revitalization plan of its property to include the new Apex Social Club and Camden Cocktail Lounge due to open in mid May 2018. These new concepts were created by Clique Hospitality’s Andy Masi, and nightlife partners Ryan Labbe and Jason “JRoc” Craig
“As we redevelop Palms from top to bottom including our most iconic spaces, it only makes sense to partner with nightlife leaders Clique Hospitality to help bring this vision to life,” said Jon Gray, General Manager of Palms Casino Resort.
APEX Social Club, located in the space formerly known as Ghostbar, has long held the unofficial title as the best view in Las Vegas. APEX Social Club will capitalize on the unrivaled 180-degree view while reinterpreting the space and turning the 8,000-square-foot space into an open-air boutique nightclub.
Trendy, warm finishes accompanied by sounds from local and national DJ’s will greet guests upon arrival to the 55th floor venue. Guests will also be surrounded by a number of one-of-a-kind art pieces, which will serve as a focal point to the room, creating a sophisticated, upscale vibe. To complement the stunning view and venue, guests will be able to experience specialty-crafted cocktails, age-old favorites or indulge in tableside bottle service, all while capturing peering down on the city below. You know what they say; a good view never goes out of style.
Camden Cocktail Lounge, located adjacent to the main entrance, is another reimagined venue. A dynamic cocktail lounge at its core, Camden Cocktail Lounge will focus on mind-blowing cocktails, all presented in a distinctive over-the-top manner and with flair unlike anything seen before. Bartenders, all of them masters of mixology in their own right, will put their own whimsical spin on beloved classics or create new favorites for guest’s right before their very eyes.
Guests will be able to imbibe in an environment that successfully toes the line of classic and modern decor. The attention to detail inside Camden Cocktail Lounge will be second-to-none. Programming will change daily with a mixture of live music and DJ-driven sounds.
“These are legendary venues, and if the walls could talk, you would hear some amazing stories,” Craig said. “We’re going to add a few chapters to those stories.”
“A lot of people miss the heyday of Vegas when it was about the room and the energy and not just the talent,” Labbe said. “We’re bringing those days back.”
Also added to the group is Eric Hobbie, the mixologist stirring up the new signature cocktails for soon to open APEX Social Club and Camden Cocktail Lounge. He’s been tapped as the brand’s Corporate Intoxicologist where he engaged to create unique, signature cocktails that represent Clique and their respected cocktail programs across venues from Vegas to San Diego, by highlighting creativity through mixology. He is a Certified Beer Server, Certified Sommelier, CRT Tequila Specialist, Graduate of the Academy of Spirits, and is Bar smart certified, insuring Clique guests receive nothing but the best. Hobbie is thrilled to be part of the team and looks forward to making his imprint on the high-end brand.
Now taking reservations: world-class luxury and state of the art technology can now be found in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley at the Sheraton Los Angeles San Gabriel; featuring unrivaled accommodation, meeting space, catering, restaurants and bar.
Featuring 288 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, EST. Prime Steakhouse, transcending the quintessential steakhouse with top-quality, imported steaks and fresh seafood, the highly anticipated Chinese import, Ba Shu Feng, opening in spring, 24-hour fitness center with yoga space and Sheraton Club Lounge for the Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) frequent, loyal traveler. Not to mention the in-lobby Starbucks, Afternoon High Tea every Friday through Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m and additional programming to be announced.
This Sheraton will be the first in the US hotel industry to tout eight TUG robots developed by Aethon, the leading provider of autonomous mobile robots. Visitors to the 288-room stylish hotel will be greeted by Aethon’s four-foot high, friendly-looking innovative TUG robots whether looking for directions to elevators or receiving an in-room delivery. More information and photos of the in-house robotic staff will be available after the hotel’s private grand opening event on Thursday.
“Having eight robots is a first for the US hotel industry, and we know our TUG robots will be an approachable, cutting-edge addition to the world-class service guests expect at Sheraton properties,” said Wanda Chan General Manager. “Robots are the next wave of hospitality technology and we believe our overnight guests and those in the local San Gabriel community will find the robots to be intriguing and fun.”
Guests are also invited to experience the hotel’s spa, Beverly Hills New Life Beauty & Wellness, which has four comfortable treatment rooms to enjoy treatments such as Deep Tissue Massages, Ultrasonic Facials and custom health and wellness plans to rejuvenate the senses. Creative cocktails and lightbites are available to enjoy after treatments on the second floor by the atrium.
The Sheraton Los Angeles San Gabriel is located at 303 East Valley Boulevard, San Gabriel, CA 91776. Reservations can be made at www.SheratonLASanGabriel.com or over the phone at 1-800-325-3535. For corporate packages, meetings and event, please contact Director of Sales and Marketing, Fred Kokash, at 626.607.2006 or email fkokash@sheratonlasangabriel.com.
It’s probably one of the corniest holidays in existence, because without fail, February becomes a month filled with heart-shaped balloons and candy, endless amounts of chocolate boxes and bouquets, and stereotypical nods to cheesy eroticism through red silk boxers paired with bow-ties. Seriously, give it a rest. Now, I’m not trying to be completely cynical, but when I think about Valentine’s Day and how commercially warped it is, I quickly lose interest. I want to celebrate Love everyday of the year, but if I’m going to dedicate a specific day to demonstrate it, then I’m going to do it in a very special way.
Typically, Valentine’s Day gifts are more novelty in nature: We’re talking teddy bears, rose bouquets, themed underwear, and dinner at either a too fancy or too crowded restaurant. I think it’s time we step it up and not only think smarter about these gifts but also add the element of an experience that you and your special someone can share together. (Sidebar*, Love doesn’t have to only be celebrated romantically. Your friends and family can share this day with you too.) Here’s a list of 20 experiential Valentine’s Day gifts that will help create memorable moments rather than forgettable, novelty riff-raff.
AtlasCoffee Club, is a travel-themed coffee club that explores the world of coffee and culture! From Papua New Guinea to Peru, Burundi to Brazil, each month they highlight a new country! (Retail: Gift Subscriptions starting at $60)
The Nostalgia Electrics Chocolate Waterfall creates a steady fountain of edible chocolate. Perfect to dip cakes, fruit and marshmallows. A great addition to your dessert spread for your and your valentine to enjoy together. (Retail: $49.99)
Indulge in a collection of face, bath, body and gourmet treats, made with nature’s candy – honey – an excellent source of nourishing antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. And for the guys, Lather created a survival kit for men on the go, with travel sizes of their favorite face, body, and hair care essentials. (Retail $48-$58)
Flowers and jewelry are always romantic gestures but what’s more fun, entertaining, and memorable than spending a delightful afternoon or evening with your significant other, enjoying delicious food and being immersed in stunning works of art and beach culture? Feast Laguna is a culinary/food tour operator based in the beautiful beach community of Laguna Beach, CA. They offer tasty and entertaining food tours that are expertly led by knowledgeable and friendly Laguna local guides. (Retail: $75-$79)
For the crystal lover in your life, Vitajuwel has updated their original Love Gem Water Bottle to include garnet and clear quartz. If you’re a deeply romantic soul looking to inspire love, and deepen devotion, this latest incarnation of the Love gem-water blend awaits… (Retail: $98)
As seen on season 8 of Shark Tank – BasicOutfitters‘ Create-a-Drawerallows guys to ditch their worn out attire and replenish their wardrobe with up to 17 pieces of high-quality basics in under two minutes with a collection of high quality and fashionable socks, underwear, tees, and joggers delivered right to their door for only $60 (a $120 value).
ISlidesare the only fully customizable, sought-after slide sandal sweeping the world on the feet of athletes and celebrities like Madonna, Dwyane Wade, Justin Bieber, Kim Kardashian, Diddy, and many more. Maker of DJ Khaled‘s famous “Bless Up” and “Another One” slide sandals, ISlide fuses fashion with athletics and has partnered with Neiman Marcus, the NBA, and a number of other teams, brands, and organizations for custom designs. ISlides can be designed to match anyone’s personality with pictures, phrases, emojis and more – or choose from hundreds of pre-designed collections from French Montana, Nickelodeon, NCAA colleges and more. (Retail: $49.99)
As seen on Good Morning America, PediPocket is 6 feet of super soft microfiber fleece that has a clever foot pocket to keep your toes toasty. Use it at home, at the office or take it while traveling. Plus, it’s machine washable and dryer friendly. Perfect for cold winter days spent snuggling up on the couch with your Valentine. (Retail: $39.99)
Among all the texts and tweets, send your Valentine a meaningful handwritten message with the original line of modern photo greeting cards from Tell It WellCards! Each card is 4 x 4 square (Polaroid size) and is printed on sustainably sourced and recycled paper that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. 10% of sales go to provide small business microloans to women in poverty in the US and around the world for the Whole Planet Foundation. (Retail: $4 – $20)
Show your friends and family how much you care with the Gratitude Glass Love Jar. Fill the jar up with love notes that can be enjoyed all year long! Named “the gift that keeps on giving” by Oprah and featured among the 102 gifts of Oprah’s Favorite Things 2017 List, the Gratitude Jar from Gratitude Glass Jars has driven a movement – inspiring others to love themselves and the people around them. (Retail: $45)
During Valentine’sDay week (Feb. 10-16) we’ll be offering a special Sweetheart’s New York Strip Steak with Sweet Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts, and Blood Orange Sauce. The recipe takes only 35 minutes to make and fool-proof for even the most novice home cooks. As one of HelloFresh‘s Premium recipes, this dinner is undeniably special. With strip steak, brown sugar mashed sweet potatoes, and roasted Brussels sprouts, this dish has tenderness, sweetness, and warmth—just like any solid relationship. It’s topped off with cranberries and a sauce based on blood orange—two fruits that have a romantic red hue. (Retail: $59+ for a 3 meal box for 2 people)
Do Valentine’s Day differently this year with BOXFOX and their limited edition 2018 collection of pre-curated themed boxes. Available online until Feb. 18, each box is a thoughtful assortment of gifts that allows you to show you care on the most romantic holiday of the year. If you want to really show your creativity, you can curate your own custom BOXFOX with their BUILD A BOXFOX platform and and select whichever items your heart desires. (Retail: $30 – $200)
Customized gifts are always a great idea. Soufeel Jewelry’s personalized pieces are your easy solution. For once, you can find the perfect gift for everyone on your list without having to sacrifice meaning or thought! (Retail: $19.95 – $49.95)
14. The Mondrian Staycation
Being in love never felt so good. Celebrate your romance with this package that includes an in-room couple’s massage and dinner at the Doheny Room ($150 sbe gift card provided). Followed by a nightcap for two at Skybar. Then end it all with a turndown service including champagne and rose petals. Price point for the hotel stay plus the package is ($800)
Think Pink this year for Valentine’s Day with Barefoot Wine’s Bubbly Pink Moscato & Brut Rose selections. Everything is better with wine, and Barefoot is trusted and true for this occasion. This is one of SoCal Mag’s favorites!
The rise of vegetarian and vegan lifestyles have garnered an influx of restaurants that cater to the health-conscious and plant-based eaters all across Southern California. It’s no longer just a trend, but rather a way of life that’s altering the diet regimens of thousands of people across the world. The thing about plant-based diets though, is that they’re immediately perceived as being very limited in options; however, the steady increase of vegan & vegetarian chefs are specializing in new ways to cook food that’s not only good for you, but also extremely delicious.
Chef Jerry Yu had a concept in mind when creating his restaurant Vegetable. He thought that if the ingredients in his recipes were all home-grown and always fresh, than he’d be able to guarantee great, flavorful cuisine. Sure enough, he put that concept to fruition and created the beautifully designed and operated, Vegetable in Studio City, CA. This gem really makes an exquisite dining experience by its concept, “built from the ground-up as a showcase of the restaurant’s namesake: Vegetable.” More importantly, Vegetable is completely organic and there are NO meat-substitutes on the menu; no easy “go-to” soy-protein or reworked versions of meat-centric dishes.
I experienced a wonderful dining session at Vegetable and was thoroughly impressed with the way Chef Yu constructs his deliciously crafted meals. From the Charred Brussels Sprout to the Sweet Potato Pie with Peanut Butter Ice Cream, everything was delightful and well prepared. My favorite dish was the Butternut Squash Toast, which is made with roasted garlic & butternut squash butter, heirloom tomatoes, and a balsamic reduction all on top of grilled rustic ciabatta. The entire menu offering really makes for a meal that is consciously satisfying.
Everything was truly a chef’s masterpiece. To learn more about Vegetable, visit www.vegetablela.com and follow them on Instagram at @vegetable.la
Platform LA seems to have it all going on, and for good reason, with one of its highlight restaurants — Hayden. Hayden, a modern Los Angeles restaurant and wine bar, is helmed by chef and partner, Ari Kolender. Aptly named for the creative community of the Hayden Tract, the restaurant will highlight local California ingredients with European influences set in a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere. Hayden will offer a new wine program and Golden Hour, from 5 pm to 7pm, which will offer $1.50 oysters and $8 glasses of wines with special tastings with Beverage Director Anthony Cailan on Saturdays.
In addition, the exquisite restaurant continues to offer its can’t-miss light morning menu, including Chef Kolender’s signature waffles, Vittoria coffee, plus a menu of tartines, salads, and sandwiches throughout the day. During afternoons and evenings, diners can expect oysters, European canned seafood, and an extensive selection of new California wines, which will also be available throughout the day in Hayden’s wine shop.
About Anthony Cailan
Anthony Cailan, Hayden’s Beverage Director, focuses especially on natural California wines in the shop, and is one of the few sommeliers who chill red wine by the glass. With an extensive culinary background in some of the most popular and successful businesses and events across California and the country, Cailan lends his expertise to Hayden to create a rare and unforgettable experience for diners.
About Ari Kolender
Chef Kolender has cooked in some of the best kitchens in Los Angeles, including Providence and Red Medicine. Before opening Hayden, he worked at The Ordinary and Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop in Charleston, where he was nominated for the James Beard Rising Star Chef award.
The design of the restaurant reflects the spirit of Kolender’s cooking. This focus on simple high-quality materials can be seen in the custom woodwork, handmade ceramic flatware, and an Italian marble bar. The Hayden team also collaborated with their neighbor, British designer Tom Dixon, on the lighting and furniture in the space.
Kolender summarized the spirit of the project: “Hayden was inspired by the neighborhood. From gallery owners to music producers to fashion designers, the Hayden Tract is full of entrepreneurs as well as up and coming artists. I want to create a gathering space for all of these people to come together and enjoy a great meal and an incredible bottle of wine any time of day. The food we cook at Hayden will be inspired by and reflect the diverse and elegant city in which we live.”
Location: 8820 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232 Hours: 12 pm – 9 pm daily Phone: (310) 593-4777
Photo Credit: Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles
While California feels like it’s always been her home, Hawaii, San Francisco, Las Vegas and the Philippines are just a few places Ely Anne has lived thus cultivating her lifelong appetite for finding, trying and sharing new adventures, especially through food and wellness activities. She loves how food can always bring people together – anywhere, any time – and that’s what fuels her passion for public relations and marketing. Ely finds it invigorating to have a hand in seeing brands thrive in their community by using her PR, marketing and event production skills. She is also a regular Editor for SoCal Magazine and other digital publications.
