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  • Dover sole with beurre blanc at La Monique Santa Monica, next to mini French onion grilled cheese
    Dining

    La Monique Santa Monica Review: 5 Dishes Worth the Splurge

    October 2, 2026 - By Ginger Graham

    We gave La Monique, the 14-table French brasserie at the Oceana in Santa Monica, a second chance after Valentine's Day. Here's what to order, from escargot poppers to the chocolate soufflé.

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  • A gourmet plate featuring a Filet Mignon Kabob on a black metal skewer with a side of white creamy sauce and a roasted tomato slice at Perse in Brentwood.
    Dining

    A New Lens on Persian Fine Dining: Our Evening at Perse

    March 23, 2026 - By Ginger Graham

    The Westside has never been short on great Italian, modern American, or sushi, but a serious Persian restaurant had been missing from the Brentwood/Santa Monica rotation. That changed when Perse opened, tucked into Brentwood Gardens at 11677 San Vicente Blvd. Brad, our two daughters, and I went this past weekend to see if it held up to the buzz. The Room Fills Up Fast We had a 5:30 reservation at Perse and walked into a calm, architecturally clean room. By the time we left around 6:45, it was completely packed and lively. The outdoor patio is lovely, but it gets…

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  • Calvados Old Fashioned and a Mezcalita D’Ananas garnished with jalapeño on the table at Massilia in Santa Monica
    Dining

    Massilia Santa Monica: French Dining That Will Surprise You

    December 9, 2025 - By Ginger Graham

    What began as an app-fueled dinner date turned into an eye-opening lesson in how quickly kids can acquire a taste for the finer things.

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  • High-angle view of Terranea coastal resort with white buildings and red-tile roofs overlooking the ocean under a cloudy sky.
    Travel

    Terranea Resort Spa: Why I Go Every Year Before Mother’s Day

    August 29, 2025 - By Ginger Graham

    Why I book a solo spa day at Terranea Resort Spa every year before Mother's Day: what the massage costs, what's worth adding, and how far ahead to plan.

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  • The 108 Muse sign beside the terracotta front door of Muse restaurant in Santa Monica
    Dining

    Restaurants Without Kids: Where We Actually Go for Date Night

    August 28, 2025 - By Ginger Graham

    The five restaurants my husband and I save for date nights without our kids: Michelin stars, a $350 tableside duck, and why they're worth a babysitter.

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  • Alaia dinner menu entrees and prices at Turtle Bay
    Dining

    Alaia at Turtle Bay: Breakfast and Dinner (Kahuku, Oahu)

    July 4, 2025 - By Ginger Graham

    Our honest review of Alaia at the Ritz-Carlton Turtle Bay: what we ordered at dinner, the breakfast buffet vs. à la carte, prices, and tips for families.

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