Locals know it as "The UBG," but the Universal Bar & Grill is one of the area's most popular neighborhood dive bars and pubs. It's located two blocks from the Universal Entertainment Studios so it's a big hangout for many of those who work "in the industry." It's not surprising to see a show's television star throwing darts with the guy who holds the camera cables. There's an outside smoking patio, pool table and of course plasma televisions throughout the building. It's a popular place for private parties and location shoots. The food menu is pub comfort food all served with a smile.
The Fireside Lounge's newly revamped taproom is a far cry from it's original self, which was built in 1942. But throwing history out the door and boldly remodeling for the future is perhaps the lounge's most distinguishable quality. And to match this vigor for change, the Fireside lounge features a comprehensive calendar of events and specials, like $3 dollar wine tastings, a month devoted to a half priced cocktail and... well, you'll have to read about all the events on their calendar which is updated monthly.
The beer connoisseur will be pleased to find ten craft beers on tap and approximately one-hundred bottles of beer on the wall. This place has got it all... truly this is the bar of the future.
This well-kept and friendly pub serves reputable food and around 100 kinds of beer. Dishes include deep-fried "Dixie" dill pickles, a roast beef and brie sandwich and beer-battered salmon fish and chips. The pub consists of one long, rectangular room with barrel tables lining one side. Happy hour halves the cost of appetizers and brings drafts to $3, and runs 4- 6pm during the week, 11pm - midnight on Saturdays and all day Sunday. At night, the pub is dimly lit and often has live music.
The Mojo Lounge is a bar featuring an array of entertainment. Every Thursday night, local bands jam and karoake is held on Wednesdays. The Mojo Lounge also serves sandwiches, burgers, fries and other menu selections.
Largo at the Coronet is an art venue and bar located in West Hollywood. The venue offers patrons a wide array of performances, including plays and musical guests. A full calendar of events is available online as are tickets. Tickets may also be purchased at the Largo box office or over the phone. The theater also features a bar where patrons can purchase drinks before any performance. For further inquiries, phone Largo at the Coronet.
Hopmonk Tavern is a restaurant and pub located in Sonoma. The restaurant offers an array of lunch and dinner options to patrons, specializing in food that pairs well with beer. Much of the food served comes from locally-produced ingredients. Dishes include fried calamari, pumpkin squash soup, pulled pork sandwich, mussels and stuffed chicken. The tavern also features a full bar with a wide selection of beers. For further inquiries or to make a reservation, phone Hopmonk Tavern.
Brio Tuscany Grill is a chic, sophisticated, friendly neighborhood restaurant with a great wine list and a good variety of wine-by-the-glass. Brio features contemporary Italian cuisine, a full bar, and live entertainment in addition to both fine Italian and California wines. The menu is Italian and highlights include the wonderful pasta in a light wihite wine sauce and fresh garden salad, and mussels in flavored butter sauce with homemade bread. The food is perfectly prepared and the service is great. Wine tastings are available along with the appropriate food pairings.
La Peña Cultural Center is a nonprofit performing arts and culture center in Berkeley. The center hosts classes, cultural exhibitions and public events relating to Latin American culture and a variety of other cultures from around the world. The center also sells Latin, homestyle food from its in-house restaurant, Café Valparaíso.
Coyote Bar and Grill, located just steps from the beach in downtown Carlsbad, is a restaurant by day and a bar by night. Customers can eat inside or on the patio. The lunch and dinner menu offers soups, salads, sandwiches and entrees such as chicken, fajitas, grilled snapper, ribs and more.
Located at the end of Torrance Boulevard, the Redondo Beach Pier was originally built in 1889, and today the pier and neighboring international boardwalk and marina feature more than 50 dining, entertainment and shopping choices. The Pier is a great place to explore with friends and family.
The Pier has excellent sea food that is fresh from the ocean. During the daytime you can stoll the pier looking through the shops and possibly do some fishing while basking in the sun. At night, venues like The Brixton provide live music from local and national touring artists.
The Redondo Pier Association is committed to bringing free community events to the pier throughout the year for everyone to enjoy.
In search of a fantastic music lounge to listen to some great jazz? Then look no further than the Baked Potato in Studio City. The Baked Potato has been around since the 1970s and continues to offer the same great music and atmosphere that made it famous. It has a full bar as well as a full dinner menu that is made up primarily of variations on the classic baked potato. There is a two-drink minimum, however, but no cover charge. Reservations are accepted, and it might be a good idea for a large group. Check out the Baked Potato's full calendar lineup of artists available on its Web site.
Located in downtown San Mateo, B Street & Vine offers an extensive wine and beer list as well as a full menu of small plates. The restaurant is warm and inviting with indoor and patio seating. Live jazz is provided Wednesdays through Sundays and wine flights are available on Monday nights.
Honda Center is one of Orange County's most important entertainment hubs. The centrally located venue is relatively easy for OC residents to get to, whether they're coming for a concert or to cheer on its main tenant, the National Hockey League's Anaheim Ducks. Equipped with good seating and pretty eclectic food, it's an ideal locale for sports and music fans alike.
Honda Center Parking
Parking at the stadium is pricey, especially for concerts. There are plenty of lots around the stadium that offer discounted rates if you don't mind walking. If you do park here, Lot 4 gives you with the easiest exit route.
Hotels near Honda Center
There are plenty of budget hotels within a few blocks. Since Disneyland Resort is less than 5 miles away, you'll also have the opportunity to stay at upscale versions of chain hotels like Marriott or Hilton.
Seating at Honda Center
Honda Center's sight lines are great for sports regardless of where you're sitting. Sections 411, 412, 433, and 434 are terrific family-friendly options that put you at the arena's center.
Food at Honda Center
You'll find classic stadium fare like hot dogs and nachos throughout the arena. The 200 section has the best selections, including local restaurant options like Wahoo's Fish Taco. The sit-down venue Standing 'O' serves up gastropub fare before, during, and after games.
Beer at Honda Center
Beer at concession stands run about $8 to $10. Generally, the shortest lines are away from the main entrance. The arena's seven bars feature a better beer selection, including several local craft brews.
Parking alternatives at Honda Center
If you're staying in a nearby hotel, you can purchase a day pass to catch a bus ride with the Anaheim Resort Transportation. There is also a Metrolink station across the street.
What to bring to Honda Center
You'll want to bring an extra layer of clothing if you're attending a Ducks game. The arena is a little cooler for hockey games to help preserve the ice.
Insider tip for Honda Center
The industrial park west of Honda Center is home to Noble Ale Works, a local craft brewery. You can park in their lot for free, but it's common courtesy to stop in and enjoy a pre-game pint.
Author's bio: Rich Manning is a freelance writer based in Orange County, CA. He's been writing about food, drink, and lifestyle in Southern California for over ten years.
