The Ultimate 2021 Cannabis Product Gift Guide (and Review)

The Ultimate 2021 Cannabis Product Gift Guide (and Review)

by | Dec 31, 2021

Sure, this year is almost over, but an I-O-U never hurt anybody! You have just less than 24 hours to grab a gift before the ball drops, but you’re in luck. Some of these deals may be over, and some may continue into the New Year, but all of the products below are worth a purchase, with or without a deal! Peep the list below and trust, the people in your life will be filled with joy this holiday season.

Mohave Cannabis Co.

THE WHY: 

The flower inside these jars seriously live up to the beautiful packaging and design featured on the outside. Mohave dropped a special strain for this holiday season called “Santa’s Secret”.  Who knew Santa had a secret!? Well, in 2021 we are breaking down stigmas and welcoming ole Saint Nick into the Cannabis community. Read more about the strains below, and my thoughts on them.

About the Brand, From the Brand:

We are a family of gritty, hard-working, never-give-up, ready to have a good time kind of people. For over a decade we’ve worked tirelessly to perfect our craft of cultivating premium indoor cannabis. Quality genetics, optimal growing environments, and precise nutrient regiments combined with a little blood, sweat, and tears have consistently produced an award-winning flower. Our cultivation is a craft. One that meets a consistent standard, which was established before it was legal. From density to trichome coverage, appearance, nug structure, and a guaranteed 25% or higher THC test, Mohave Reserve sets the bar for top-shelf cannabis.

Strains: Santa’s Secret, Durban Poison x Gushers #2

Santa’s Secret : This strain is smoooth, to say the least. It has hints of vanilla and ginger, and is an absolute must try, so make sure you cop one to gift and one to try. You don’t want to miss out on this one. When it’s gone, it’s gone, so move quickly.

Durban Poison x Gushers #2: One of the standout strains I have tried this year is the Mohave Reserve Durban Poison x Gushers #2. I don’t want to turn this into an in-depth strain review, but I have to say you cannot go wrong with this strain.

The Cure Company

THE WHY:

The Cure Company does things differently. Their product is next level and the people behind the brand make it even better. If the person you are shopping for has never tried the Cure Company before, put them on! If they are a seasoned vet, check out some fan favorites from TCC below.

About the Brand, From the Brand:

The Cure Company has been a leading producer of premium cannabis in California for 20+ years. We operate out of multiple state-of-the-art cannabis facilities throughout Southern California and are the favorite brand of cannabis culture’s elites like Snoop Dogg, Nipsey Hussle, and more. With our headquarters in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles’ Arts District, we grow and sell California’s most sought-after and exclusive cannabis products.

BONUS: Curelatto x Packwoods pre-roll: One of the best prerolls in the game. I’d honestly put these in the canna cigar category. Curelatto won The High Times Cup for a reason and I can co-sign that one.

Holiday Promotions: TCC will be having an event all day on December 23rd, so stay tuned to their social media for the announcement.

Strains: Marathon OG, Miami Fritz

MARATHON OG: In collaboration with the Marathon Cultivation, TCC continues to bring the heat with Nipsey’s flagship strain. The marathon continues. 🏁

Miami Fritz: A bunch of new Mintz crosses dropped this year but Cure’s Miami Fritz was the one that stood out to me. The taste of Mintz is distinct in this one and it is a great “pregame” strain. Before you hit your holiday parties this year, be sure to roll up some Miami Fritz.

High90’s

THE WHY:

High90s has to be one of the coolest brands introduced this year. Their exotics are probably the most colorful flowers out there, and users rave about their wax pre-rolls. With all that feedback, we had to include them in the Holiday Gift Guide this year!

Strains: Tropical Cookies, Double Cup

Tropical Cookies: This is a mix between Girl Scout Cookies and Biscotti! It is an Indica dominant Hybrid that’s sure to get you to Paradise.

Double Cup: “Your favorite rappers drink.”

Bonus: Wax Infused Pre-rolls: The absolute perfect holiday party joint. Pick up a few and share with all your friends (:

Holiday Promotions: “Friday, 12/17, at Greenwolf LA, buy an eighth get a preroll for $1.”

Availability: Store Locator

About the Brand, From the Brand:

High 90’s wax-infused prerolls and premium exotic flower eighths are currently found in various stores in California. To find our most current store lists and to track down a store near you that carries our High 90’s products, check out the store locator that can be found on our website or search for us on Weedmaps. Check out our Instagram stories to hear updates on deals for the holiday at stores. We do Buy One, Get One Preroll for 50% off and also Buy an Eighth, Get a Preroll for a $1.

To purchase the cozy woven High 90’s blanket in the Tropical Punch blue shade, High Nineties-High There socks, and High-deas Notebook can all be purchased on our website.

Cream of the Crop

THE WHY:

Cream of the Crop is a friends and family team that takes small-batch exclusives to the next level. Seeing their growth and progress this past year is incredible. Their packaging and strains were already some of the best available in California, but trust me, you’re gonna want to try these new strains in their new black jars.

About the Brand, From the Brand:

Cream of the Crop is a collection of California’s most exotic, exclusive, highest quality, connoisseur flowers, and smokables. Cultivated by passionate people who care deeply about the essence of exceptional cannabis, with a shared mission of producing the best expression of each cultivar – fragrant terpenes, unmatched flavor, and always a clean, smooth finish.

Holiday Gift Box

For a limited holiday release, Cream of the Crop’s gift box features an eighth of ultra-premium, small-batch flower, a limited release Diamond Barrel, gold Zippo lighter, black rolling papers, and a COTC grinder. Each box is individually numbered to create the ultimate limited edition gift for your favorite cannabis consumer.

Availability: Store Locator

The Diamond Barrel

Cream of the Crop seeks to push the boundaries of quality in every product and the Diamond Barrel is no exception. Cream of the Crop’s ultra-premium flowers are hand-rolled and infused with 1.2 grams of flower and 0.2g of strain-specific THC-A diamonds, combined to create exceptional flavor profiles with an experience unlike any other, and finished with a black obsidian stone tip that stays cool so you can smoke every last bit of your Diamond Barrel.

Viola x Iverson: ’96

THE WHY:

Allen Iverson teams up with Al Harrington’s Viola for what has to be the cannabis collab of the year! The first strain from a beautiful partnership, ‘96 was built & cultivated to taste like a glass of Don P. It’s hints of grape pull this off beautifully and it’s something you have to try to believe. Read more about it below.

About the Brand, From the Brand:

“(Allen Iverson) gave everybody the courage to be who they are. And when I think about what we’re doing in cannabis, it’s the same thing. We’re stepping out there for the people that are a little afraid, and giving them a glimpse of what it would look like if they did it, too.” -Al Harrington

The Iverson 96 strain is a cross between Secret Kush Mints and Grape Stomper. Iverson 96 is an indica dominant hybrid. Iverson 96 name came from NBA Hall of Fame player Allen Iverson who was drafted in 1996.

Iverson 96 cannabis strain was first bred by legacy growers, Green Dragon, and brought to the world by Viola Brands. The Iverson 96 cannabis strain has a complex flavor profile combining a robust grape candy-like aroma, coupled with notes of pine and mint. Like its namesake, the Iverson 96 effects are audacious, leaving you speechless with its euphoric, mood-elevating, and sedative effects. It is coated with multiple hues of vivid & forest greens, interlaced with specs of light and dark purple, encrusted crystal trichomes. Iverson ‘96 has a smooth cool mint flavor profile with subtle notes of grape.

Availability: Store Locator

Pine Park

THE WHY:

From the jump, Pine Park has dropped some amazing flowers of the year, and if you or your loved ones haven’t tried it yet, what are you waiting for!? Founded by the multi-industry legend H3CZ, Pine Park shows us the potential and the start of what can happen when you break ground in multiple industries. Pine Park is bringing back the OG strains and it’s like the Cannabis God’s have heard our prayers!

About the Brand, From the Brand:

A lot of people know me as a digital content pioneer, an entrepreneur, or as the founder and CEO of one of the most successful esports franchises in history, OpTic Gaming. Cannabis has been a central part of my life, and throughout my endeavors, I’ve built an incredible community that I’m excited to bring along for this next journey.

Pine Park refers to the place in Chicago I used to sneak out to when I was a teenager and smoke weed. Now that cannabis legalizing nationally and consumption is becoming normalized, I’m thrilled to be pursuing a lifelong dream of working with cannabis and to have the opportunity to educate myself and my community on how to responsibly be a part of and grow this industry.

Strains: Chem Reserve, Chem Driver

Chem Reserve: This OG strain is a Sativa hybrid cross of Chemdawg and Stardawg. A smooth smoke that takes me back to the flower I love most. A classic.

Chem Driver: Perfect for your favorite gamer! This is an Indica strain cross of Chemdawg and Sundae Driver. It’s my go-to when I’m ready to lock in some W’s on Fortnite.

Availability: Store Locator

Glass House Farms

THE WHY:

Last year, I was able to visit Glass House Farm’s 500,000 sq. ft. HQ in Santa Barbra, and since then I’ve fallen in love with their flowers, their team, and their passion for innovation. GHF is one of the most affordable premium cannabis brands around. Do not be fooled by the size of their farm! GHF won the 2021 sustainable Leadership award for their Glass House, which is designed to remove pollutants from the soil, and after harvest be used for food, fuel, or fiber. Their strains do not disappoint, and they truly have a product for everyone.

Strains: Sugar Tarts, Hellfire

Sugar Tarts: “Happy Heaviness for the mind and body.” An Indica dominant strain that’ll help you relax and clear your mind during the holidays.

HellFire: This lemony, earthy flower is the perfect hitter before you pull up to your holiday family parties. Trust me, your tía won’t seem as annoying this year!

Availability: Store Locator

About the Brand, From the Brand:

We believe the future of cannabis grows in a greenhouse, where high-quality plants can be grown sustainably and sold at an accessible price. We also believe cannabis should be a force for good – improving the lives of our consumers, our employees, our communities, and our planet.

Union Electric

THE WHY: 

Union Electric has been a go-to brand this year, not only for their prices, but also for their quality. UE goes beyond just the flower, and one of the best things about the brand is that they are advocating for fair regulation and leading the conversation around Legal Cannabis. Earlier this year, their Crowd Funding Campaign raised over 1,100% of their goal! If you’re balling on a tight budget this year, UE’s OZ bags are one of the best values in the game.

About the Brand, From the Brand:

At Union Electric, it’s straightforward: premium flower, fairly priced. From California’s top cultivators straight to the dispensary door, we’re committed to bringing you the freshest flower at great prices every single day. We give 2% of our profits back to the local communities that have embraced the legal cannabis industry. We support the hardworking people that have entrusted us to steward the social, economic, and medical opportunities created by cannabis.

Strains: Papaya Punch, Mother’s Milk

Papaya Punch: This Indica-dominant strain is a cross between Papaya and Purple Punch with a tropical berry flavor and scent The perfect strain to make you feel like you’re on holiday at home.

Mother’s Milk: Don’t let the name scare you! This cross between Nepali OG and Appalachia is the perfect pairing to a backwood & hot chocolate this holiday season. This is one of my favorite Sativa’s, and that says a lot because I typically prefer Indicas. But that alone is why it leaves you feeling relaxed, yet focused.

Availability: Store Locator

Say Treees

THE WHY:

There just aren’t enough good things to say about Say Treees. The team is incredible and they are truly building something special. The people behind the brand put care and love into what they grow. Say Treees is a brand to watch this holiday season, and in 2022.

Strain: Vanilla Runtz #1

Vanilla Runtz #1: An extremely potent strain with hints of sweet that will mellow you out, so you can sleep like a baby on Christmas Eve.

About the Brand, From the Brand:

Say Treees is a black-owned brand founded by Jahni Denver a lifelong cannabis lover and ten-year vet in the industry. “We went to Mendocino and learned from the Ogs and built 14 greenhouses this year and through their guidance and our dedication we grew some fire testing at 29% THC our debut Strain is called Vanilla Runtz #1 and we will debut it at both Greenwolf locations in Los Angeles and Bellflower just before Christmas.”
–@jahnidenver

Availability: Greenwolf

Ted’s Budz

THE WHY:

Ted’s Budz have lived up to the dope designs on their packaging, and these strains are definitely for seasoned smokers, or those looking for high potency from their flower.

From the brand, by the brand:

“Based in Los Angeles, Ted’s Budz is the leading distributor of the finest exotic cannabis flower statewide. Ted’s Budz has collaborated with some of the finest growers in the state, such as Wizard Trees, Dubz Garden, Hi Tech, and many others.”

Strains: Big Squid, Uni

Big Squid: Teds Budz and Hi Tech combine for this flavorful exotic. It has a creamy inhale with sweet cherry notes on the exhale. This Indica dominant hybrid brings a cerebral high and is the perfect party strain.

Uni: by Teds Buds and Hi Tech is a cross between Zkittlez x White Runtz x Gelato 41. This strain stood out as far as the nose (smell), the bud structure, and the taste. I rolled Uni up in a backwood before bed and I was out like a light. This is truly a sedative strain so hold off on mixing this one with the holiday punch.

Availability: Cookies, Backpack Boyz, Calma, and more.

Stocking Stuffers

Does anyone use stockings anymore? Probably not, but here’s a collection of stocking stuffers that will bring the holiday vibes to you and yours.

Shmoke Apparel

Shmoke has dope pieces and smoking accessories, but their trucker hat has to be my all-time favorite! Don’t I look handsome!?

Check Shmoke out here

STSHBX

I take this thing everywhere with me. I feel official when I carry around my STSHBX — and if you see me with it in public, just know that I’m ready to roll at any moment — so, we rolling or what? This is a must have kit for that person in your life that is ready to take their cannabis organization to the next level.

About the Brand, From the Brand:

“We want the brand to break the stereotype of the “lazy, couch-locked stoner” and instead represent the young professionals, hustlers, and creatives that enjoy cannabis socially. It’s a box intentionally designed for portability and discrete sessions (that happens to look good too). Smell-proof, water-resistant, with enough room for half a zip we want to build a community around smoking socially.

Availability: Available to ship nationwide now. Based in LA, we offer free shipping so you can start enjoying your box within 5 business days.

Holiday promo: Promo code: Holidaze for $60 and will include a STSHBX case (retail $80) and a free included ashtray (retail $15). Available until the end of the year.

High90s WOVEN BLANKET

It doesn’t matter if you’re hitting the beach or you’re outside smoking on a chilly night. Either way, the High90s blanket has you covered.

“It’s cozy season, cuddle up and have a sesh with our machine washable soft woven blanket.”

PURCHASE HERE

HOj Klip

My favorite grinder of all time. Design-wise they are unbeatable, the sleek matte black brushed metal finish not only looks good, but it feels good in hand.

PURCHASE HERE

DaVinci Vaporizer

On the days when I don’t feel like rolling up woods, I find myself loving the DaVinci Vaporizer. Perfect for the light smoker in your life.

“DaVinci promises to build with only the cleanest componentry. Our Clean First™ ethos means that no metals or plastics are used in our sealed zirconia/glass airpath, providing purity to the connoisseur. Terpenes never tasted so good.”

PURCHASE HERE

Holiday-Hit Cocktail Recipes from Dahlia & El Silencio

Holiday-Hit Cocktail Recipes from Dahlia & El Silencio

by | Dec 22, 2021

It’s officially winter and the holidays are at our front doors! If you’re still in a scramble to figure out how you’ll be a hit this holiday, we’ve got the recipes  everyone is sure to love, courtesy of Dahlia and Silencio. If you missed out on the plethora from the Fall-focused recipes, check them out!

Whether for Mr. and Mrs. Claus, who duly need it, or the adults at your holiday dinner, the folks over at Dahlia and El Silencio are the experts, and you can consider them passing along their expert knowledge for free! Dahlia launched in February with its sights set on a new wave of tequila aficionados, offering an enchanting, modern and masterful Cristalino expression that can be sipped or mixed, day or night – holiday or not.

Made in Jalisco, Dahlia is the vision of Fausto Zapata and Vicente Cisneros — the Mexican-American entrepreneurs behind the largest independent Mezcal Brands in the World — known as El Silencio. As is the case with their award-winning mezcal, there is no famous face of the brand – the star of this show is in the bottle. The same can be said for El Silencio. Read on for a list of some Holiday Recipes showcasing both Dahlia and El Silencio as the stars of these seasonal cocktails.

Dahlia’s Holiday Recipes

Dahlia Hot Chocolate Ingredients:

2 oz Dahlia
1 oz Rumchata
5 oz hot chocolate
Whipped Cream, Nutmeg, Cinnamon

Method:
Combine all ingredients in a mug.
Stir to blend.
Top with whipped cream.
Garnish with grated nutmeg and cinnamon.
Gracias Hopper Ingredients:

2 Oz Tequila Dahlia
.75 Oz Mint Liqueur
1 Oz Unsweetened Coconut Cream
1 Oz Coconut Water
.5 Oz Lime Juice
Mint Garnish

Method:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker tin with ice.
Shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
Double strain to serve over crushed pebble ice.
Garnish with mint.

Mezcal Eggnog Ingredients:

1.5oz Vanilla Infused Mezcal El Silencio Espadin***
3oz Eggnog
1 Cinnamon stick

***Vanilla Infused Mezcal El Silencio Espadin:
Cut 5-10 Tahitian Vanilla Beans in half (longways) and drop into a 750ml Bottle of Mezcal El Silencio Espadin.
Let the bottle sit for 3-5 days to infuse.
Strain the Infused Silencio and rebottle.

Method:
Pour Vanilla Infused Silencio and Eggnog into shaker tin filled with ice
Shake vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds
Strain into a coupe glass
Garnish with freshly grated cinnamon and full cinnamon stick

Mezcal Milk Punch Ingredients:

(Makes 8-10 Cocktails)
***1 1/2 cups Poblano Infused Mezcal El Silencio
2 cups milk
1/4 cup good quality Nocino (Walnut Liquor)
1/4 cup Amontillado Sherry
1 1/2 cups Quality Amaretto
3/4oz Walnut Oil
1/2 cup Fresh Lemon Juice

***Poblano Infused Mezcal El Silencio:
Add one seeded and stemmed poblano pepper and one 750ml bottle of Mezcal El Silencio Espadin to a blender.
Blend on high and then fine strain the liquid before rebottling. Use within a few days, just as you would produce.

Method:

Add the Milk to the container you will make the punch in FIRST.
Then stir in the rest of the ingredients AFTER the milk.
***This slows the PH change and ensures your milk punch will come out perfectly.

The liquid should curdle due to the alcohol and citrus.
Strain the punch after an hour or add sliced poblano peppers and spices and let the punch sit overnight for a stronger flavor.
Strain the liquid through a coffee filter or cheesecloth.
The milk makes a “raft” that filters out the solids. What is left is the milk punch.
Optional: Add fresh pomegranate seeds to your serving vessel and pour the Milk Punch over them.
Garnish with a lemon twist and freshly grated cinnamon.

Travel Ideas For The Holidays: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Travel Ideas For The Holidays: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

by | Dec 22, 2021

It’s that time of year when the kids are out of school and families are taking a break from work to decide their holiday festivities. If you’re among them and looking for something to do, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood is the perfect family activity for those who love the magic of movies and TV, from classics and nostalgia for adults, to newly launched and beloved series for kids and teens.

The revamped Studio Tour features an all-new Welcome Center, a Studio Store with exclusive merch, expanded Central Perk Café and Friends Boutique, a new Storytellers Showcase, and an interactive grand finale with major highlights from the DC Universe and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Fantastic Beasts. The Studio Tour is also constantly introducing new and exciting elements and has just recently added the Batmobile to the tour. Southern California residents can purchase tickets online at a discounted rate of $57 for weekday and weekend visits through December 24.

Additionally, the new Studio Store at Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood offers the only in-person shopping experience with exclusive merchandise from legendary Warner Bros. films and TV shows. Those who can’t make it to the store in-person can now also purchase the exclusive merchandise on the tour’s website – https://store.wbstudiotour.com/.

Myodetox Opens New Location in Studio City

Myodetox Opens New Location in Studio City

by | Dec 21, 2021

Here we are at the end of another year, and you’re probably feeling your age right about now. Lucky for you, Myodetox, the boutique physical therapy clinic opened their latest location in Studio City, last month!

Fittingly located in the new Sportsmen’s Lodge complex, Myodetox joins a group of sought after health/wellness-driven retailers — including Next Health, Vuori, Free People Movement, and Erewhon. The new Studio City opening marks Myodetox’s 3rd US location, following West Hollywood and Brentwood. 

The modern, sleek, spa-like clinic offers a fresh approach to physical therapy built on the belief that physical therapy should be a preventative (rather than reactive) part of your wellness routine. Why wait until something is wrong to seek relief?

Myodetox is making optimizing your physical health an integral part of your journey, and they start by looking at the global picture of how your body is ordered and balanced, how your body moves, and how one issue can lead to problems elsewhere. Everything is connected! Looking strategically at the root cause of any pain or dysfunction — and not just treating the pain, but “future-proofing” your body — Myodetox wants to help you move better to make sure this pain never comes back. 

About Myodetox

When you experience an injury or pain or want to move better, it’s not easy to understand who you should see. Vinh Pham, a physical therapist, and Scott Marcaccio, his patient, understood this frustration many people shared. Knowing there was a better alternative, they started Myodetox in 2015 – a clinic with a team of expert therapists that provide hands-on therapy and corrective exercises to help people get out of pain and keep the pain away longer so you can squeeze as much from life as possible. Myodetox now has 12 locations throughout Los Angeles, Toronto, Vancouver and is leading today’s conversation on why taking care of your body is essential to your daily life.

Myodetox is a leading provider of cutting-edge, hands-on therapy for people looking to get the most from their body. Provided by Doctors of Physical Therapy and Doctors of Chiropractic, Myodetox helps you get out of pain, recover from injuries faster and keep the pain away longer so you can squeeze as much from life as possible.

About Vinh Pham

Vinh Pham has been a licensed physical therapist for over a decade, graduating from McGill University in Montreal, Canada. Vinh is the Founder of Myodetox, a group of design-forward manual therapy clinics reimagining the traditional therapy and rehab experience.  His unique hands-on therapy approach is widely viewed as an effective solution to get you moving and feeling better. Throughout the years, his style of therapy has attracted athletes, celebrities, entrepreneurs, and industry-leading health and wellness brands.  He has one of the largest Instagram followings in the healthcare space on his @vinnierehab account. He posts daily educational videos to over half a million followers on effectively taking care of their bodies.

About Scott Marcaccio

Scott Marcaccio is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Myodetox, a lifestyle physical therapy brand operating multiple locations across Los Angeles, Vancouver, and Toronto. Through the power of their brand-first approach and industry-leading social media strategy, Scott has led Myodetox to forge ongoing partnerships with global brands, including Nike, Equinox, and Lululemon.

Before joining Myodetox, Scott was an International Correspondent working for the South China Morning Post, tasked with creating macroeconomic reports on key European trading partners in Asia. He later joined Baltronic Group, a Scandinavian telecommunications company, to successfully lead their business into the Canadian market in a Director of Sales role.

Scott graduated from Western University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and frequently speaks on entrepreneurship, employee engagement, branding and company culture.

Sugar Taco Partners with Outstanding Foods to Launch Limited Time Meal

Sugar Taco Partners with Outstanding Foods to Launch Limited Time Meal

by | Dec 14, 2021

Updated: 12/16/2021 – We had the opportunity to visit the Sherman Oaks location and try out The Outstanding Tostada, along with additional menu items. We have provided insight into our experience at the restaurant, along with the other menu items.
[Contributing Writer: Anthony C. Stafford]

Holiday food bogging you down? Why not treat yourself to something a little less…festive?

The options are limitless, but the perfect opportunity exists, and it’s meat-free! Plant-based food company, Outstanding Foods, has teamed up with Los Angeles-based vegan Mexican restaurant, Sugar Taco, to create a limited-edition menu item! Feast your eyes on this: 

Throughout the month of December, Sugar Taco’s menu will have a new plant-based dish highlighting Outstanding Foods’ versatility and flavor profile: 

  • The Outstanding Tostada: a crisp corn tortilla topped with guacamole, chicharrones in salsa verde made with Outstanding Foods PigOut Pigless Pork Rinds & plant-based crema. 

Co-founded and created by Dave Anderson (the genius behind Beyond Burger) and Bill Glaser, Outstanding Foods is revolutionizing the plant-based food space and innovating familiar classics. Their products are flavorful, high in protein and nutrients, sustainable, cruelty-free, and always plant-based!

Better for you, animals, and the world! Name a better combo. In fact, there are some combos completely on par with The Outstanding Tostada, and they’re offered by none other than Sugar Taco!

A Sugar Taco Feast

We had the opportunity to stop by Sugar Taco’s Sherman Oaks location where we were greeted and treated with warm and festive hospitality and cheer from not just the restaurant staff, but also other patrons who stopped by to give the small restaurant a try. This vegan Mexican hot spot features bright, vibrant and alluring colors with a classic street feel. Chalkboard menus pop off the walls and grab the attention of visitors with their hand-drawn art and ordering options.

With its warm feel, we were seemingly transported to a street scene as we took our seats and noticed a string of lights zig-zagging across the ceiling — accompanied by hanging potted plants, wall planter boxes, and painted cans of colorful flowers beautifying the dining area. The vibrant pops of color continue as a theme throughout the restaurant, and there is even a play area for kids in a corner. The kind owner and chef, Alan, got busy almost immediately after our arrival, creating masterful meals that we were soon to enjoy.

No more than 5 to 10 minutes after taking a seat, we were surprised with the most deceiving quesadilla in existence — tortillas glued together by an ooey, gooey, flavorful cheese made from what’s possibly the least expected food out there: chickpeas. Better than a dairy-based quesadilla, this fan favorite comes with house-made creamy (and smoky) chipotle sauce, a peppery red salsa, and a soothing guacamole. What quickly followed this introduction was a plate covered in ten tacos – two of every type – a heaping pile of nachos, and the star of this story, a couple of Outstanding Tostadas!

What do you get when you combine a mountain of chips, meat-less meat, vegan nacho cheese, crema, black beans, and salsa? A full stomach that still has to try out other dishes. All of the dishes following the quesadillas differed in intricate ways, but those were only ways that made each dish shine in its own light. Sure a lot of Mexican cuisine may share the same ingredients, making it incredibly versatile (and similar), but Sugar Taco goes the extra mile so that their tacos and nachos have completely separate flavor profiles and textures.

Each taco allowed its meat-less meat to be the star, whether it was the barbecue-esque pulled pork flavor and texture of the jackfruit taco, or the crispy fried fish appeal of the fried tofu taco. All the while, each star was backed by its toppings, varying from lettuce and tomato to cilantro and house-made sauces. Each offering felt so oddly familiar, yet so different — and in a good way! Finally, the Outstanding Tostada set a stage for both Outstanding Foods and Sugar Taco to put on an incredible tastebud show. Pops of flavor from pig-less chicharrones provided a dynamism that we never thought a tostada needed, and it was a perfect pairing with not just a tortilla delivering the role of crunch and structure.

Smoky, chewy, spicy, or crunchy, Sugar Taco has achieved what some popular high-end vegan restaurants around LA are known for, but at a fraction of the cost for the diner. The best part being that the meals are all vegan, nut-free, and bringing a wide variety of gluten-free options. Stop in while you can, as the collaborative beauty that is the Outstanding Tostada will only be available through the month of December, and we’re already halfway done!

About Sugar Taco

At Sugar Taco, we believe great food and great ethics go hand in hand. Our menu stays true to authentic Mexican flavours without any of the icky stuff that comes from animal products (like the deforestation, the heart disease, the killing animals, you know). We are proud tree huggers and we source our produce from local organic farmers.

Sherman Oaks Location:
15025 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403

West Hollywood Location:
7257 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90046

About Outstanding Foods

People want to eat mindfully but without sacrificing taste or texture. That’s why Chef Dave carefully crafts our foods to give you the flavor and crunch you crave, but with tons of nutrition and no animal ingredients! We believe in creating food that is just plain delicious — whether you love “traditional” pork rinds or have never tried them, we know you’ll find our PigOut Pigless Pork Rinds to be tasty as hell!

“Cann in a Bottle” Launches Ahead of the Holidays

“Cann in a Bottle” Launches Ahead of the Holidays

by | Dec 7, 2021

2021 has been the year of Cann, and in their own classic style, the company is ending this year with a bang!
Along with their recently released limited-edition winter flavor, Cranberry Sage, Cann has now done the unthinkable. As of December 6th, Cann has introduced their first ever “Cann in a Bottle” — a hefty 750ML — complete with 30 servings and 60mg THC & 120mg CBD. Think wine in a can, but instead, this is Cann in a wine bottle (aka the key to making you the hit of any holiday gathering)!

With all the buzz they’ve had this year, if you haven’t heard, here’s the deal:

Cann’s social tonics gained traction not only from their extensive list of celebrity fans, but also for their buzzy, better-for-you benefits. Not a stoner? Neither is Cann.

These social tonics were specifically designed to deliver a refreshing, energetic feeling that will allow you to socialize freely without ever losing control— and since Cann is a beverage, your body absorbs the cannabis right away (much faster than solid edibles) and the effects subside in about an hour. No more uncontrollable holiday parties!

At $60, this “Cann in a Bottle” is poised to set a new standard for holiday drinking and makes a great gift for any canna-curious friends or family on your gifting list this year. If interested, get first dibs when the bottle goes live by joining the waitlist!

10 Ways to Throw a Killer Dinner Party

10 Ways to Throw a Killer Dinner Party

by | Dec 6, 2021

There’s nothing quite like the rush of hosting a successful dinner party. Creating an environment for conversations and laughter is an art form with practicing. If you want to invite your loved ones over for a meal but don’t know where to start, read about these simple ways to throw a killer dinner party. Hosting will come naturally to you after using this guide to plan a fantastic event.

1. Give Yourself Time

It isn’t wise to announce a dinner party just a few days before it occurs. People need time to work the event into their schedules and you’ll need to plan every detail. Give yourself at least two weeks to prepare everything you’ll need to transform a meal into a party.

2. Pick a Theme

Seasonal holidays are a classic reason to invite people over, but you don’t have to wait for them to find a reason to celebrate. Think about popular themes for people of all ages, like DIY pizza night or a sushi extravaganza. Themes dictate everything from ingredients to decorations, so find one that excites you and start planning.

3. Pair Drinks With Food

Dinner parties always have fun drinks for guests. Create a menu with beverages that go well with your main meal. If you want to host a charcuterie board party, you could serve sake in small glasses. The traditional Japanese drink pairs well with most cheeses and has many different types. Don’t forget to offer alcohol-free beverage alternatives if you want to invite guests who prefer a non-alcoholic drink.

4. Plan for Allergies

Your dinner party will come to an unfortunate end if one of your guests can’t eat with everyone. Request allergen information when you decide to invite people so you can get food that’s safe for the entire group to eat. Eliminate allergens from appetizers, entrees and desserts and label everything for clarity during the party.

5. Think About Decor

Decorations turn a meal into an event. Consider where you’ll host your party to determine which decorations will work in the space. You could hang fairy lights around your kitchen if you live in an apartment and create floral arrangements for centerpieces if you have a long dining room table. Decorations will also complement your party around the outside of your house or down the driveway.

6. Announce a Dress Code

Do you want people showing up to your party in fancy clothes or sweatpants? What they wear will set the tone for the evening, so announce your dress code once you find one that fits with your theme. You could ask everyone to dress up in black-tie clothes or arrive in their funkiest costumes. Having fun with a dress code is one of the easiest ways to throw a killer dinner party.

7. Include the Kids

Remember that some of your guests may bring their kids. Children don’t care for fancy adult food and typically want to sit away from boring grown-up conversations. Set up a kids’ table at your party and fill it with hassle-free foods that will please the pickiest eaters. Mac and cheese, chicken nuggets and cubed fruits are just a few ideas to start your menu started.

8. Save the Perfect Playlist

Background music sets the tone for your party as your guests walk in. If only two or three guests arrive and they don’t already know each other, the resulting awkward silence can start a party off on the wrong note. Find a playlist with music that fits your party’s theme. It can start playing softly in the background before your guests arrive so no one feels pressured to fill any silence.

9. Send Desserts Home With Guests

Most dinner parties end with leftovers. If your friends work nearby, you can always send them home with the remaining desserts and other foods in small bags or cardboard boxes. They could even match your party’s theme or have a message painted across the top. People will love taking a snack home, especially if your food was a big hit.

10. Get Extra Household Supplies

Your guests won’t only need something to eat and drink. They’ll also need napkins during the meal and a bathroom stocked with toilet paper throughout the night. Get extra household supplies and set everything up before people arrive. Add helpful items to your next grocery list, like:

  • Toilet paper
  • Paper towels
  • Handsoap

If everything’s in place before your party starts, you won’t need to step away from your guests to get what they need while you’re in mid-conversation or sitting down to eat.

Throw a Killer Dinner Party

You’re about to become the best host in your friend group now that you’ve read a few ways to throw a killer dinner party. No matter where you live or what you want to serve, your guests will have a great time because you planned every detail.

Getting Back

Getting Back

by | Dec 1, 2021

Recently, the world was treated to nearly eight hours to of a kind of Beatlemania—in the form of Peter Jackson’s The Beatles: Get Back.  Whilenot for everyone, it will appeal to  those interested in the Beatles as a group, and as personalties. It is as Peter Jackson said, a “documentary about a documentary.” It lived in a previous life was “Let it Be”, a documentary by Michael Lindsay-Hogg back in 1970. In that documentary, one was left with a bad feeling—they would break up months after filming, yes, there was animosity and they didn’t like each other for a long time. This documentary makes it clear that none of those things are  quite true. Yes, they break up, yes, there were some bad feelings in the end, but that is expected as this is nothing less than a love story about a group of friends who came together to make music, and changed the world.
Here is the review:
At once sad, poignant, nerve-wracking and compelling, it is really a love story and yes it ends in divorce. The Lennon-McCartney connection was intense—they read each other, conspired to reach the heights of silliness, waste time and when the moment came, to turn it out. Harrison fought for his rightful place, he was up against giants, but he managed—and—his songs were just as good—Lennon was funny and clever in ways we hadn’t been shown before. Yoko, oye—while not a nuisance, she was a huge distraction. She sat there for hours and you wondered why she didn’t have better things to do. McCartney, astrology can explain him— A Gemini with Virgo rising—music just flows from this man and what is evident is, he loves it. Gifted with a voice that could be soothing to do raunchy without strain, to watch as he evolves some of his classic songs, was a gift unto itself, and I think we can safely say, the man never looked better. But back to Lennon—a much better guitar player than expected—in one scene, he suddenly plays the theme from the classic film, The Third Man—brilliant. And then there is Ringo—beautifully tailored, always good natured, more witness though as always his drumming is a thing of perfection. Billy Preston arrives just in time to add another layer to the music and a much needed so-called fifth Beatle position to keep them on their toes.
What was the conclusion? They evolved, they became individuals who wanted to play their own music—their break-up was inevitable, though so sad. Unknown hero—Glyn Johns, who would go on to produce every great act in music. In the studio, his choices, his advice is always spot on. And as for George Martin? His debonair looks were about all he could offer as this was a striped down version of the Beatles—not the musically complex version that he so helped to create.
Sad. John Lennon assassinated. George Harrison dies of cancer as does Linda Eastman. One is reminded of the fragile nature of friendship, of collaborations, of creating something from nothing, of time. Odd that after nearly eight hours, you are left wanting a little more—what happened after the rooftop?