#Breakfast Burrito Santa Monica

[kafekcalifornia]

Refreshing Smoothies in Santa Monica - Fresh and Flavorful Selections

Santa Monica is known for its sunny beaches, vibrant lifestyle, and a food scene that blends health and indulgence. Whether you're a local or a visitor, one must-try option is enjoying a refreshing smoothie. With diverse flavors and nourishing ingredients, smoothies in Santa Monica have become a go-to treat for health-conscious individuals looking for a cool, satisfying option.

Fresh Ingredients and Flavors That Delight

In Santa Monica, smoothies are more than just a drink—they offer a combination of taste and nutrition. With ingredients ranging from tropical fruits like mangoes and pineapples to antioxidant-rich berries, each sip is packed with natural goodness. Popular add-ons like chia seeds, almond butter, and matcha powder not only enhance the flavor but also boost health benefits, making smoothies an excellent post-workout refreshment.

Savor Delicious Avocado Toast

While sipping on a smoothie, why not pair it with a trendy dish? Avocado Toast Santa Monica is another local favorite. Known for its creamy texture and perfectly seasoned toppings, this simple yet flavorful meal provides the ideal blend of healthy fats and energy-boosting carbs. Served with poached eggs, tomatoes, or microgreens, avocado toast offers the perfect balance of taste and nourishment.

A Dog-Friendly Patio Experience

When enjoying your food, having a comfortable space that accommodates everyone, including furry companions, can make all the difference. Many cafes and restaurants in the area offer a dog friendly patio Santa Monica, inviting pet owners to relax and dine with their pets by their side. It’s not uncommon to find dogs lounging under the tables as their owners enjoy smoothies and other treats in the outdoor seating area, enhancing the friendly and community-focused vibe of Santa Monica.

Whether you’re craving a revitalizing smoothie, delicious avocado toast, or searching for a pet-friendly spot, Santa Monica offers it all. The city’s vibrant food culture caters to every preference, blending health, taste, and a welcoming environment. For those who want to explore refreshing smoothies, nutritious meals, and enjoy a cozy, pet-friendly ambiance, Kafe K in Santa Monica is the place to visit.

[value2society]

riding that Wednesday wave into the weekend.

[solaadisa]

📝- A memory of them getting to know/meeting my muse + cricket!

"The first time Cricket and I hung out outside of school was, like, the weekend after classes started, and I just remember being so nervous. Like, we'd exchanged numbers and Instas and all of that already and I knew that I wanted to be her friend, but I was like, what if there are weird awkward gaps, what if we don't vibe like I thought we would, blah blah blah. I changed my outfit, like, three times. It was fucking ridiculous. It was like I was going on a first date.

She came over to my apartment and we ordered tacos from this place on Santa Monica Boulevard and just, like, immediately — I knew I wasn't wrong. She was gonna be my friend whether she wanted to be or not. It was kinda like we'd been friends our whole lives and we were just catching up.

We put on Love Island and played a drinking game and I literally don't remember what the rules were now because we got so fucking drunk. We fell asleep on the couch, woke up the next morning and got hangover breakfast burritos. She's been my best friend ever since."

@cricketcampbell

— more memories | open.

[icleanedthisplate]

Dine-Out Meals of October 2023, Ranked

I ranked the following based on taste alone. I made no consideration for ambiance or the general dining experience or whatever. I included meals I got to go. I included food trucks, catered meals, and fast food.

I got into burgers this month.

Should you be interested in the pictures or reading the few words I had to say about each meal, click on the home page and scroll down or see the archives.

Apolonia ‘Classics’ Tasting Menu (Yellowtail Crudo, Roasted Mussel Toast, Fiorentini al Sugo, Mediterranean Branzino, The Pistachio). Apolonia. Chicago, Illinois. 10.1.2023.

Samantha’s Steak Salad. Samantha’s Tap Room. Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.9.2023.

Signature Sweet Hot Burger w/Fries. Copper Grill. Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.10.2023.

Half Rack of Ribs, Broccoli, Baked Sweet Potato. Corner Grub House. Sulphur Springs, Texas. 10.25.2023.

Chopped Sirloin w/Mashed Pots, Creole Salad. The Faded Rose. Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.23.2023.

The Ranch Salad w/Salmon. Standard Service. Heath, Texas. 10.27.2023.

Whiskey & Aged White Cheddar Burger w/Steamed Veggies. Yard House. Irving, Texas. 10.26.2023.

Fried Chicken Livers w/Pepper Jelly (shared), Eggs Benedict. The Second Line. Memphis, Tennessee. 10.22.2023.

Baleadas Con Todo w/Carnitas. El Sur Street Food Co. Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.9.2023.

Chicken Spaghetti Lunch Special, Side Salad. Cache. Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.16.2023.

Meatloaf w/Green Beans, Baked Potato. Samantha’s Tap Room. Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.30.2023.

Veggie Sandwich w/Potatoes. Blackberry Market. North Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.17.2023.

Angry Wife Roll, Hibachi Chicken Lunch. Wasabi. Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.6.2023.

Santa Monica Cobb Salad w/Chicken. Summer House (ORD). Chicago, Illinois. 10.4.2023.

Chicken Leg Quarters, Peas, Broccoli & Cheese Casserole. Platnum BBQ (River Market). Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.18.2023.

Chicken Leg Quarters, Green Beans, Broccoli & Cheese Casserole. Platnum BBQ (River Market). Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.5.2023.

Steak Sandwich w/Steamed Veggies. Huey’s (Germantown). Germantown, Tennessee. 10.21.2023.

Noodle Bowl w/Tofu. Three Fold Noodles + Dumpling Co. Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.19.2023.

Lunch Catering (tacos, chips, etc.). Blue Coast Burrito. North Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.22.2022.

Bangkok Noodles w/Shrimp. Bangkok Thai Cuisine. Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.24.2023.

Buffalo Tempeh + Sesame Cauliflower. City Silo. Memphis, Tennessee. Germantown, Tennessee. 10.21.2023.

White Bean & Ham Soup. Cache. Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.31.2023.

Catered Buffet (buffalo chicken chimichanga? Shrimp tacos, assorted pizza, fried chicken sliders, etc). Acebounce. Chicago, Illinois. 10.2.2023.

Breakfast Catering (Bacon, Eggs, Fruit, Pastries). Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center (Catering). Grapevine, Texas. 10.26.2023.

Catered Buffet (Pasta, Pasta, Pasta, Minestrone Soup, Doughnut). Hilton Chicago (Catering). Chicago, Illinois. 10.3.2023.

Catered dinner (Steak & Chicken pieces, butternut squash, Brussels, mashed potatoes, ice cream w/toppings). The Glass Cactus (catering). Grapevine, Texas. 10.25.2023.

Tacos (Tipsy Chick, Crossroads, Mr. Orange). Torchy’s Tacos. Rogers, Arkansas. 10.12.2023.

Chef Salad w/Turkey, Pizzas (Pineapple, Sausage). Vino’s Brewpub. Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.20.2023.

Chicken Wrap (?). Unknown Caterer. Irving, Texas. 10.26.2023.

Chicken Fingers w/Side Salad. Stickyz Rock’n’Roll Chicken Shack. Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.11.2023.

Oatmeal, bacon. Residence Inn by Marriott. Germantown, Tennessee. 10.22.2023.

Turkey Bacon, Cheddar & Egg White Sandwich. Starbucks. Benton, Arkansas. 10.25.2023.

Turkey Bacon, Cheddar & Egg White Sandwich. Starbucks. Chicago, Illinois. 10.2.2023.

Turkey Bacon, Cheddar & Egg White Sandwich. Starbucks. Chicago, Illinois. 10.3.2023.

Turkey Sandwich, Pasta Salad, Cookie. McCormick Place. Chicago, Illinois. 10.2.2023.

Chicken Sandwich, Pasta Salad, Cookie. McCormick Place. Chicago, Illinois. 10.3.2023.

[the-last-concert]

Chapter Nineteen: Careful

Pepper

Two Days before the Last Concert

Pepper banged on Speedy’s door, repeatedly. They lived one block away from each other in Santa Monica. After the funeral, he was glad that Speedy was around him more. It was less of a dread to be able to get up in the morning. He had memories, ancient memories tied to his best friend. Could he still call him that? Even after … he cut communication out. He would think so. If anyone got how he was, it was him. And aside from all the people in Mystique, Speedy seemed like the only one who stuck around. 

“Yo!!” Speedy swung the door open in a hurry. He was half dressed and still had a toothbrush in his mouth. “You 5-0 or something?” 

Pepper pushed past him and walked in the house. He had big news and it couldn’t wait until they were at Zero Morale, the music advertising company they were employed at. On a whim, Pepper had no idea Speedy applied there, until he saw him in the cafeteria one day randomly. It was the best surprise he had after a long shitty week. 

“I got the gig.” Pepper told him. “The indie band I’ve been following? Well, I sent them some of my videos and.…they like it-no-loved it. I’m off to London to tour with them soon.” 

“Well, shit.” Speedy dapped him into a hug. “That’s a big deal. I understand why it couldn’t wait. But what about Zero Morale? And I thought you planned on doing grad school at UC to get your Master’s in teaching? 

“I know, I know.” Pepper said. It was eating up inside that he hasn’t shared not one detail on his plan. He pushed to tour because he needed to. While he still could. Pepper was sick. The terminal deadly kind. Cancer. And Speedy had no fucking clue about his condition.  “But this ain’t passing me by. I need to take this chance to tour while I still can. Time ain’t an option I have… at the moment.” 

Pepper hid his sickness from Speedy because it’s not like he’s been making the best choices with his health. Lately, shit has been a blur for him. He went to all-night bars, ate poorly, or nothing at all. Did every drug imaginable with fans or… band roadies. He needed to numb the pain. He needed to numb the world. He was fucking done with it. If he can be a misguided ghost for the rest of his existence, he would oblige quickly. But …. There was Speedy. Speedy has been here for him. And he sure as hell, didn’t want to think about Qwen. 

Qwendolyn Annie Tuckett. That was his mom’s maiden name. Pepper never acknowledge her re-marriage to the most vindictive man alive. Charles B. Jones.

Speedy smiled wide. “Then…we should celebrate. We got the hook-up at MiSChievous KiSS my bro got for us.” He motioned his hands in the sky to paint a movie picture. “We’re talking about free drinks…. All night.” 

“You know I ain’t passing that up.” Pepper settled on the couch, eating the rest of Speedy’s breakfast burrito. “But we got the set-up today in the Ziggy auditorium for that one artist.”

Speedy shook his head and smirked. This always meant he had been working solo, and more than likely bringing Pepper along with them. “Talked to the head of PR. Get this. There’s a secret concert happening in Madison Square for a reunion tour. And guess who’s helping out?”

“Us?” Pepper asked, half-way through chewing. 

Speedy ignored his messy eating and replied, “Naturally. We’re flying to New York tomorrow morning. And after the briefing, we got the rest of the day to ourselves.” 

“My dude!” Pepper did their secret handshake. “You always finesse the system.” 

“Aye,” Speedy’s hand went up, before taking back his plate from Pepper. He ignored that he wasn’t finished eating his breakfast burrito. Probably made from scratch, if Pepper could guess. “I’m just a man with a pretty face.” 

Speedy went into the kitchen to wash the dishes. Pepper glanced at white envelope that fell from where the plate was sitting. It was a letter. And he can only imagine who was on the receiving end.

“You invited her?” 

Pepper stood up with the letter in his hand. He wanted to crumble it up and throw it in the farthest trash he could find. It was already bad enough he has been dreaming about Moggie since the funeral. He didn’t invite her. But a small portion of his hope was crushed when she didn’t attend. He had no right to be angry at her. But…. There was resentment. And a lot of it between them.  It had to be what- 8- no 9 years since he saw her last. And little over a decade since they spoke. 

Not since that night at Rosie’s. 

Back then, he wasn’t thinking. Everything was an implosive conversation. But she didn’t realize, she broke his heart that day. She had no intention of going with them to California. How… could he ever tell her then ? How much he was in love with her? How much he would miss the way she smelled? Or her smile? The way her nose looks sunken into her face when she’s mad? He didn’t have access to any of it. And that pissed him off way more than a petty goodbye.

Speedy stopped soaping the dishes before answering,” Yeah. It'll be jank going into a city she lives in and not having a conversation. This is a good thing. You can finally clear the air.”

“I ain’t clearing shit, Speed.” Pepper slammed the letter on the counter. “Do what you want. But there’s no way in hell I’m going now.” 

“It’s already too late.” Speedy said. He turned around from the sink and folded his arms. “Big Man signed off on it. And you know how it is there. Once the ink dries, there’s no free rides. He’s gonna expect us both to be in New York the day after tomorrow.” 

“Fine.” Pepper gritted his teeth. “Hurry up and finish getting ready. I won’t be late cause you need more time in the mirror.” 

Speedy snatched a toast that popped up and ate it halfway. “Don’t be such a baby. I’ll be down in 10.” He jogged upstairs to finish getting ready for work.

Pepper hated not having control. He was fucked. There’s no way he can face Moggie after all the pain he caused her. What if she never forgives him? What if she doesn’t remember him? That’s worse. Way worse. Instead of listening to scenarios screaming out, Pepper went into Speedy’s studio to calm down. Maybe he was losing it. Only way to cope with this was to play it out. He picked up a nearby guitar and just started playing. It was chords he was used to, but something stirred, and he started messing with major chords that cleared minor chords. It was a brand new sound. Just as fast he played it, he had the lyrics to what it was about. He started humming the melody. Then wrote some lyrics down on the back of a music stand. He never was the best at communicating. But music… music was always able for him to do the impossible. He had a way to be transparent. And maybe this time, the message for Moggie won’t get lost in translation. He had a way to talk to her. 

“You ready?” Speedy called from the living room. Pepper almost lost his sense of reality, but he came back. 

He put the guitar down and made it back upstairs. He spotted Speedy was dressed in Nike techwear with his vintage backpack from college, hanging off one shoulder. “Yeah, let’s go to work.”

They were called into a meeting right away. Big Man was his nickname, but everyone knew the CEO as Xavier Floyd Hathaway. His family? Filled with musicians…singers…songwriters and dancers. Some are even more famous than MJ. They struck gold when getting this job. Sure, it was a lot of grunt work, but they were able to network with some A level artists.

“Where we at? Speed?” Big Man questioned him. He was looking at the arrangements on the white board to pinpoint Paramore’s beginning and ending set. 

“I got the email back from Hayley. This is the revised set list that she wanted to put in.” Speedy handed him a flier and he scanned it over, before he waved at his assistant to take it from his hand.

“Tell her it’s approved.” Big Man stated. He kept looking between the board and his phone. One of his phones. “It’s missing… something. This is their last concert together. It gotta go out with a bang.”

“You’re right, Big.” Pepper said. “I may have that thing.” 

“Pep, shut up.” Speedy tried to warn his best friend for the millionth time about asking for stage time. Big Man believed in results before spotlights. Pepper has been like a sore thumb to his own work. Bugging Big Man every chance he gets about performing. 

“Nah, let him speak.” Big Man sat down and typed out something before giving Pepper the floor. “All yours, Pic. What’d you got?”

“An original song.”

“And you rehearsed it?”

“This morning.”

“And it’s all the way done? I don’t have time for anything less.”

“I promise. It’s golden.”

Big Man looked at his assistant and a few other workers before responding. But he looked….relieved ? Pepper couldn’t pinpoint his facial expression, but it got so quiet within a few silent seconds. He sniffed and leaned back in his chair, “Alright Pic. One shot. You got me? A lot is riding on this to be a success.”

Pepper clasped his hands together. “You already know.” Big Man nods and everyone is dismissed from the meeting to get ready for departure. 

“Bruh, on the real?” Speedy says. “I was scared for you. I mean-you really finished a song that fast?”

“HELL no!” Pepper said. “But I fooled him.”

“We’re fucked.” Speedy’s head dropped into his hands. 

Pepper smirked into a slight laugh. “No faith. I’m disappointed that you think we can’t pull this off.” 

“We? I ain’t lie to the most powerful man in the music industry.” Speedy pointed out. 

“Look-you got me in the mess from jump.” Pepper said. “And contacted the one person I didn’t want. You‘re helping me out with this. And ... .Imma need your studio for the rest of the night.”

“Whatever, man.” Speedy waved him off before cheesing widely. “But we’re partying first.”

MiSChievous KiSS was packed. They drove twenty minutes to downtown LA. The line wrapped around the block. Speedy and Pepper keeked at each other, knowing a celebrity had to be in there. It was the only publicity M.K. got. Other nights were deader than a lonely street walker. Pepper was crashing at Speedy’s place until they left for the airport tomorrow morning. He had no idea how he was going to finish the song, and survive the morning sunrise. The next couple days were gonna feel like actual hell. But this was the kind of break Pepper needed. At least, until he was able to get a handle on his life again.

Pepper wiped off his black leather jacket from the rainfall. He wore all black tonight. Right down to his steel toe boots.  Speedy wore a cream silk shirt that was left opened and an ivory tee underneath. He paired it with emerald denim flared pants and hi-top white Pumas. 

“Man, I hope your connection doesn’t make us wait in this long ass line.” Pepper complained. “Ain't worth it.”

Speedy gave him a will-you-trust-me look as they made it to the doorway. Pepper rolled his eyes. There was a huge bouncer, guarding the front with a female dressed in a silver dress, smacking her gum. She looked like she could be in her mid-40s. There was a clipboard she had, and a lanyard that read: MiSChievous KiSS ViP. She looked up when Speedy’s silhouette hovered over her. 

He smiled really big. “Good evening, Miss Lydia.” 

“Malachi…” She batted her long false eyelashes, before gripping the  ViP list clipboard tighter with her long false nails. “You didn’t call me back.” 

“I know. I’m a real jerk. But you know how Big Man is…..” Speedy explained, really laying on his charm thick. His hand was on top of hers, caressing it. She was like a putty in this man’s hands. “Got us running around like chickens with our heads cut off….Bloody.” 

“Boy.” Lydia busted her gum inches from Speedy’s face. Then, she smirked something sinister. “You lucky, I like you. Who’s your friend?” 

“Oh, this is Phinheas.” Speedy wrapped his arm around Pepper’s shoulder. Pepper nodded as Lydia winked at him. He had to contain the vomit that was coming up. “Basically, brothers. We grew up together.” 

“Well, if he’s anything like you,” Lydia says. “Then, this should be a fun night.” Pepper hoped that she wasn’t implying Speedy’s rap sheet of nights he had with women. Multiple women. Sometimes in one night. He withheld his shudder and decided to speak up. If it meant less wait time, he could kiss ass for two seconds. 

“Nice to meet you, Lydia.” Pepper said, extending his hand. She blushed and shook his hand. “Beautiful ink you got on your arm.” 

“What? This?” She pulled away, slyly. “It was just something me and my sisters did one crazy night.”

“Could’ve fooled me.” Pepper said. “It fits you well.”

“Mal, I like him.” Lydia removes the red rope. “Y'all go in. Sego’s set should be just starting.” 

Speedy winked at Pepper, appreciating that he worked with him. They walked right in and went through the scanning security area. 

“You know of all the A-listers,” Pepper started to say after putting back on his watch from the bin. “I’m not mad at this one.” 

“Aw, you a fan of the sax?” Speedy joked as they walked in, violated with screaming girl fans. 

They saw Sego in big purple neon lights. Plants all around the stage. His band with him. He started singing already and the crowd went ballistic. Speedy motioned Pepper to follow him around the room towards the bar. Talking was absolutely pointless. They couldn’t hear each other over this crowd. He signaled in ASL.

Drink? 

Yeah. 

Alright, let’s go. 

They reached the bar when Speedy was recognized by his friend. He came around the bar, they did some crazy hand signals. Frat related. Pepper held in his eye roll. He introduces Pepper to him, and offers a free tube shot. Pepper smiled at Speedy knowing the right people. Finally, it did him some good. 

Speedy came close to Pepper’s ear. “My boy, Richie, got our VIP passes for tonight. We can chill in that section.” 

Pepper motioned him to lead the way after he downed two neon tubes of liquor. It was settling. And he wasn’t feeling quite buzzed yet. But warm? He couldn’t explain it. Just knew the crowd around him was dead. And the screaming fans weren't pissing him off so much as before. He felt lucid. What was in those shots ? He didn’t care to ask. Just followed Speedy through the sea of people again, more relaxed than ever. He noticed when they moved a couple of inches, Speedy was either hugging, greeting, or kissing a woman. He didn’t count how many. He didn’t care. But it was quite the observation. 

There was another velvet rope. This time orange. With a guy bigger than the guard from the front. Sumo size. Pepper had a thought. Who would win if this gargantuan guard took him and Speedy on? They have been fighting bigger guys since middle school. And college was no different. Pepper always liked a challenge because it meant the win was so tasteful… in the end. 

Speedy’s grin reached the top of his head, holding up two passes Richie slid him before they left. The guard looked down, almost motionless and just removed the rope for entry. Speedy side-glanced Pepper, counting another victory. 

Then, they saw everything. A buffet of-not one- but two chocolate fountains. And fruit all around it. Some were kinds of fruit that never existed in America. Then, there was another bar inside. Only serving wine. But it didn’t matter to them. There was a buffet of Caribbean cuisine, as far as their eyes can see. 

“Holy shit.” Pepper dapped up Speedy. “Is this the Motherland ?” 

“Damn near.”  Smino made a comment, stacking his plate high with wings making a plate. He looked at them and shrugged. “What can you say? Sego MAD extra. But I dig his style.”

“Smiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii.” They said in unison and pointed at him. Smino rocked his head down, but greeted them each with a dap. 

“Y’all gifted.” Smi said. “Usually he’s private about outsiders. But… he liked your sound.” 

Pepper was shocked. “Sego heard me play?” And confused. He didn’t realize what was going on. He thought they got here because of Speedy’s connection. But the whole time… whole time ….he was… the primary guest? 

Smi had a mouthful of bread, looking between the both of them. “What ? You ain’t tell him? Aye, I’m off that. Y’all enjoy.” 

Pepper folded his arms across his chest before addressing Speedy’s dumbfounded gaze. “So… when you said you had a connect-“

“-Whole time it was you?” Speedy laughed at the wind blown on Pepper’s face. They were at the buffet table, stacking food too. “Hell yeah.” 

“The fuck, Speed?” Pepper pushed him hard. “You could’ve let me in on this.” 

“You know why I didn’t? You would’ve bitched out.” Speedy explained. Then he shrugged, continuing to sample as they went. “This way you can’t. He expects you to play in his second half.” 

“You’re a fucking twat.” Pepper said.

“But you’re still performing. Aren’t you?” 

Seemed like Pepper had no choice in the matter. But he didn’t prepare anything. “I didn’t even bring Dandelion.” 

“He doesn't want you playing. He wants you singin’. It won’t matter. He knows how good you are on guitar.” 

“Fuck this, Speed.” 

“No. Your ass isn’t pulling out.”

“But-“

“-There’s a lot of fucking big wigs here. You wanted stage time? You got it. Better fucking enjoy that shit.”  

Speedy was serious. Pepper knew if he ditched him now, it would only come back to bite him in the ass. He had no choice. He had to handle his demons on stage. Speedy set it up this way. He knew that if he blows this, New York isn’t a question. Pepper had to perform tonight. His life was literally riding on it. 

Pepper sighed. “Alright. Fuck. I need another drink.” 

Jazzy tunes filled the air and Pepper was standing off to the side, waiting on his cue. What the fuck was he doing to sing? He had no clue. But it had to be original. Maybe the song that came to him before. When he thought about Moggie. Suddenly, years of memories with her resurfaced. He started to remember her laugh. Her smile. Her smell. He missed it. He missed all of her. 

Sego introduced him to the fans. “Alright, y’all like this surprise. All the way from Mystique, Wisconsin…... y’all put those hands together…….. for Pepper.” 

Pepper nodded and grabbed the mic off the stand after Sego made his exit. But not before they pound fists for luck. There was a hushed crowd. And phones started to dim down. Shit. He better start singing quickly. So he did. And had no idea where the lyrics were coming from. But he just thought of Moggie. He thought about what he would say if he stole her heart again. He thought about them being together. He wanted her. To his very end. It’s like something unlocked inside him. He hadn’t realized how hollow his heart was before. He never experienced loving someone. But if he had to…. It would be with Moggie. 

The crowd swayed and phone lights were reflecting in his face. They matched the sea of people, rocking at his pace. He missed this feeling. He loved to perform. It felt like nothing could ever touch him. After the room settled down, he was floating. Lifted in the aftermath of his reality. Everything was coming so clear for him. He had to…

He had to…

Breathe. 

Suddenly, there was no air flow. And the stage became a sudden barrier between himself and his future. His legs gave out and he crashed into the crowd. So many bodies broke his fall. But he was unconscious. 

His nose smelled a familiar scent in the air. It was sweet potato pie. He hasn’t had that since… Qwen. He remembers coming home from a football game. They just lost by two points. He was so down on himself. He was their quarterback. If there was any way to go back in time, he wouldn’t ran that last play. It was already too risky. And they had an injured wide receiver who wanted to get his way. He should have spoken up to the coach. Let someone else take Speedy’s place. But he had this look. A look he always gets when it’s prime time. It was a hunger Pepper never had, but always fucking envied from Speedy.

“My boy,” Qwen said. She just came up from the oven with a pie crust golden, between her mittens. “No use in crying over spilled milk. Now-wash up. Pie just got done.” 

Pepper nodded and did as he was told. He always did. Disappointing his mom wasn’t what he wanted. Ever. When he changed out of his gear, he saw his slice all ready to go. It was a cup of cold milk. With a note saying: 

Pepper,

The journey is on the ground. And to make root in all your mistakes. Sometimes the best way to learn is to make every mistake possible, and evenutally….learn to let them go. 

I love you son. My QB. 

-Mom

Tears ran like a circus down his face. Qwen had never said it to him, but he knew how much she loved him. And maybe that was enough. He could not expect his way for her affection. At least, this was the best kind of some small form of communication. 

“Mom!” Speedy’s voice sounded like a boombox near Pepper’s way. When Pepper’s eyes opened, they were staring at his best friend’s panicked face. They were back at Speedy’s house and Pepper was laying on the couch. “He’s awake ! He’s awake! Shit…it worked.” 

“What…. worked?” Pepper asked, but then turned to his side to see a slice of sweet potato pie, displayed on the end table. With a glass of cold milk. “Mama V? When you get here? And why-“ A sharp pain in his head silenced him. 

“Ah! My baby.” Vickie carried over a tray of more food and placed it on the table. “You did scared us all to hell. But I’m glad you’re finally awake.” 

 “Wha-” Pepper's throat went hoarse. And he started coughing so much. What was happening? His body was failing him. Did he even perform? Or was that a fever dream? He can’t remember shit. It was so frustrating. 

“Cai. Warm up the car. We need to get him checked out.” Victoria ordered. Speedy grabbed the keys from the table and threw on his coat. He was out the door. “Pepper… let me help you stand up.” 

Pepper moved to Victoria’s arm, as his legs felt like noodles underneath. He didn’t know how she knew, but apparently no ligament was at his command. She walked slowly with him as they were out the door. Speedy helped with putting him in the backseat to lay across. And they drove off into the busy LA traffic. 

“It’s cancer.” The doctor said, looking at the X-rays and comparing them to the monitors on his screen. “Stage 3.” 

“No.” Victoria gasped. “That can’t be. Check again.” 

“Ma’am-”

“Check again!” 

“Mama V.” Pepper was going to confess. He couldn’t lie to her. He hoped this would calm her down. “He’s right. He’s the one who examined me before.” 

Victoria looked betrayed. She eyes Pepper, before stepping out of the room. She was already pushing buttons on her phone before Pepper could stop her. “I’m calling Charles.” 

“Speed. Do something.” Pepper said. “I don’t need that man in my business.”

“That man is your dad.”

“Step. Dad. I ain’t spoken to him since the funeral.” 

“And whose fault is that?” 

“You know it’s his. Why you putting this on me? He’s the parent. Though, he never acted like it.”

“Cause you lied.” Speedy told him. “To me. And Vickie. Why the hell would you hide this?” 

“Like I need both of y’all pity.” Pepper spouted out in anger.

“Wow.” Speedy said, sinking more in his chair. “You really think that little of us?” 

Pepper tried to take it back, but Victoria’s return silenced him. Of course, he didn’t think that. But he didn’t want to tell them anything. Not because they shouldn’t know. But because it was the last thing Pepper wanted to deal with. 

“He’s flying in tonight.”

“That won’t work.” Pepper said. “Me and Speedy are leaving tomorrow.”

“Oh no, Phinheas.” Victoria said. “You’re in no condition for that.”

“All due respect Mama V-” Pepper started, as Victoria raised a warning look on her face. “You ain’t stopping me. I need to be on that plane tomorrow.”

 “Cai. You better talk some sense into him.” Victoria looked at her son for a co-signing moment. But Speedy normally had Pepper’s back. 

“He’s…. right. If he misses this plane, it won’t look good.” Speedy said. “Our boss will have his head… amongst other things.” 

“Doc. There’s something you need to do. He’s already been too reckless.” Victoria says. “Can’t you restrict him…. or something?”

“No ma’am.” The doctor responded, in a neutral tone. “He’s safe to travel. But I would need to prescribe him Meclizine. For the dizziness and nausea.” 

“Sounds good to me, Doc.” Pepper said. “I’ll do whatever. I just need to be on that plane.” 

“What is so important about this trip?” Victoria said. “What are y'all not saying?” 

Pepper turned his head toward the Doc’s screen, not wanting to reveal anything. The doctor remained neutral, to not appear eavesdropping. Speedy was always the one to spill everything out to his mom. 

“It’s Moggie.” Speedy spoken up. “Don’t you think she should know about Pep’s condition?”

“Moggie…as in Moggie Green? “ Victoria lingered on her name. “That’s a name I haven’t heard y’all say in awhile.” 

“Well, you know I've been in contact with her, Ma.” Speedy said. “But she hasn’t talked to him in like, 8 years.” 

“9.” Pepper corrected slowly. 

Speedy looked at him, wondering why that mattered. But he just shook it off, persuading Victoria to be on board. “Ma, he needs to see her. Don’t you think he should?” 

Victoria pursed her lips together and started to pace the room. Then, she looked at her son. Her rebellious, but mistook son. “Fine. I’ll tell Charles not to come here. But Pepper-” She came even closer to him, sitting up on the hospital bed. She wagged her finger in front of his face. “You better turn this around, you hear? No more of doing this on your own. Cai will tell me if you aren't taking your health seriously.” 

“Yes ma’am.” Pepper nodded. 

She sighed and gave him a warming embrace. She motioned Speedy to hug them, as well. The doctor finished Pepper’s examination and he was sent home with a shit ton of pills. But… 

He was clear to see her. 

He was going to see Moggie. The day after tomorrow. 

[dogtowncoffee]

Discover some of the best breakfast burritos in Santa Monica, and learn what makes them special.

[marekogien]

Zakorkowane 14 pasów w obie strony na 405, przepełnione lotnisko na el Segundo, dive bar wysypany trocinami, wypełniony głośną rockową muzyką i rożnej maści ludźmi a każdy z nich ze swoją własną agendą, fioletowo-różowy zachód słońca na plaży z głosem Stevie Nicks w tle i zimnym 805, breakfast burrito 15 razy z rzędu, mexican cola gdzieś na stacji, na krawężniku w słońcu bo tam smakuje najlepiej, hipsterskie kawy za 6$+tax na roślinnym mleku, gluten free, fat free, vegan free, organic free, bezchmurne noce pełne gwiazd na pustyni z odgłosami palącego się drewna gdzie możesz eksplorować najdalsze zakątki swojej wyobraźni, miasta pełne bezdomnych i ćpunów, którzy wypływają po zmroku niewiadoma skąd. W końcu w środku tego wszystkiego jesteś Ty, łapiesz rytm i chłoniesz ten stan przemierzając wszystkie piękne i czasem mniej przyjemne miejsca. Każdy z nas raz w życiu powinien zakochać się w Ameryce, poznać ten mix i dać mu się pochłonąć, wysłuchać brodatego wędkarza nad ranem w kawiarni mówiącego „plandemic”, zrozumieć „athleisure” patrząc na piękne i bogate dziewczyny w Santa Monica, zjeść śniadanie na pustkowiu z miłą nauczycielką, którą w życiu poraziły fale 5g i 4g, spojrzeć głęboko w oczy przy stole bilardowym wielkim lokalnym surferom na Venice, wymieszać whiskey z rumem słuchając na full Journey, Kansas i Toma Patty, iść godzinę wzdłuż autostrady po paliwo i lecieć non stop na 200 proc bo jak śpiewa Blake Shelton - this is god’s country. https://www.instagram.com/p/CXQJW3NoOey/?utm_medium=tumblr

[athousandfootsteps]

30th May 2019

It is currently Day 3 of my journey. We have been in Hollywood for 2 days now and are leaving today to go to Anaheim because tomorrow we are going to Disneyland!!

On Tuesday when we arrived, Mum and I were so tired that we went to sleep early. We caught the Flyaway bus from the airport to Hollywood and Vine and then walked to our hotel which was about a 20 minute walk. My bags are so heavy and it was so uncomfortable. Then we went to Taco Bell just down the road, but the Taco Bell didn’t live up to what I thought it would. They didn’t really have burrito bowls like Guzman y Gomez, I remember liking it a lot better last time. But then after that we had our first trip to Walgreens and bought some stuff, then we walked around Hollywood for a while, we saw the stars on the walk of fame, we saw the Chinese Theatre, we saw all the other theatres and even saw Vin Diesel and Jamie Foxx at a Star Ceremony! 

We got tired really quickly and made our way back to the hotel via Trader Joes which I really wanted to go to because people I watch on Youtube talk about going there. Trader Joes is a grocery store which sells a lot of organic products, it is a little bit expensive, but there are no other supermarkets around where we are staying so we haven’t had a choice.

For the rest of the day we just cooked and slept and then got up early for our big next day.

Yesterday, 29th of May, we got up early and had breakfast and then headed down to Hollywood because we had a sight seeing tour booked. We were early so we walked around and took some photos. I am taking mostly film photos but I am also taking some on my phone.

The tour started late because we were waiting for another group to arrive who didn’t even show up. But we left and soon realised that we had been lied to by the guy that sold us the tickets because we didn’t get out to take photos, we didn’t go to Bel Air or up close to the Hollywood sign. But we got a tour of West Hollywood, Beverly Hills residential and business district and we got to take a picture of the Hollywood sign from a distance. The bus driver made a diversion to Bel Air because Mum and I kept asking if we were going there. So I got to see the Bel Air sign and take a picture of the gate and see it, which was nice since it was the whole reason we booked the tour. 

We didn’t realise that we had to tip the driver when we booked the tour, but I tipped him $15 and Mum tipped him $11. 

After the tour, we stopped for lunch which we had prepared, I just had a sanga and Mum ate leftover food. Then we went to Madame Tussards which I had never been to before. I saw all of the wax sculptures which looked so realistic of famous people. There were only a few I did not know. I had fun pretending to pose with the famous people and especially in the horror section. Then we went on this interactive Avengers movie which I didn’t really like because my 3D glasses didn’t work properly and I didn’t like water spraying on me or things touching me.

Then after Madame Tussards we caught the train out to Santa Monica and walked along the pier for a bit which was really pretty, but I was just getting really tired and wanted to go back to the hotel to eat, cook, shower and sleep.

We also saw Jimmy Kimmel Live in Hollywood, his star is just outside the studio.

First time on a Los Angeles train!

Santa Monica pier.

It took us like 2 1/2 hours to get back from Santa Monica as we also stopped at Trader Joes and Walgreens again on the way back to pick up a couple of things. We ate, cooked and then pretty much just went to bed.

I didn’t get a good sleep again because I was woken up at 3am by the man across the hall from us talking really loudly on the phone and he was on the phone for ages. Then when I finally got back to sleep, he banged on the door and woke us up at 7am. Very annoying.

Today we are catching public transport out to Anaheim which will take around 3 hours, we don’t have anything major planned for the rest of the day, maybe I can finally buy a SIM card because I’m still living on wifi which is only at hotels.

I can’t wait for Disneyland, I’ve wanted to go there for a long time. However Disneyland is very expensive to buy a ticket for and so I ended up just buying a single park pass for me and Mum from Klook, a third party website, as it was a little bit cheaper. So we will only go to the traditional Disneyland and not the California theme park next door. But that’s okay. We will still have a great time :)

[badkid-madcity]

Cafés and Brunch Dates: a list of my favorite spots to check out in LA

I am writing this post with the sound of the rain outside serving as background noise and although it’s pretty peculiar for it to be raining in May, I still feel incredibly blessed to have called Los Angeles home for the past twenty years. Living here has brought so many opportunities and incredible people in my life. A series of events and actions, brought me to this exact place and moment in time and all I can do is be grateful for it all.

But let’s dive into the main purpose of this post, I’ve shared down below some of my favorite little spots. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick coffee or brunch, to get some work done or be present with company, I’m sure you’ll find the perfect place on this list.

Destroyer

3578 Hayden Ave, Culver City CA 90232

A tiny, minimalist spot where the kitchen is out in front. I really enjoyed the cozy atmosphere and they make great cappuccino.

Norah

8729 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood CA 90046

Live music, great decor and an amazing brunch menu.

Coffee For Sasquatch

7020 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles CA 90038

Hilarious name, vegan friendly and great place to get some work done.

The Butcher’s Daughter

1205 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice CA 90291

s/o to Hannah for showing me around Abbot Kinney Blvd and for taking me to some cool spots like this one.

Check out her Instagram, she’s always somewhere super cool and cute.

Copa Vida

70 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena CA 91105

The absolute best pastries ever. Chill atmosphere. A lot of room to sit.

The Rose Venice

220 Rose Ave, Venice CA 90291

Good cocktails, a really good breakfast burrito and really pretty outside sitting area.

Thank you for reading!

Have a blessed day,

Vee

[eltarascoinmarinadelrey]

Skip the line. Order online.

[kafekcalifornia]

Best Breakfast Place in Santa Monica - Start Your Day Right

Starting your day with a delightful breakfast sets the tone for a productive and enjoyable day ahead. If you're in Santa Monica and searching for the best breakfast place, look no further. Known for its inviting ambiance and innovative menu, this local spot is a favorite among residents and visitors alike.

One of the standout features of this Santa Monica gem is its commitment to catering to all dietary needs, particularly for those seeking gluten-free options. Their gluten-free sandwiches & pizza are not only a healthier alternative but also packed with flavor. These dishes are crafted with the finest ingredients, ensuring that health-conscious patrons don’t have to compromise on taste.

Whether you're in the mood for a hearty sandwich, a light and crispy pizza, or a more traditional breakfast fare, this best restaurant in Santa Monica has something to offer. The chefs here take pride in their culinary creations, with each dish prepared to perfection. Patrons can enjoy a range of options, from savory to sweet, all served in a warm and welcoming environment.

Beyond the food, the atmosphere of the cafe is relaxed and friendly, making it a perfect spot for morning meet-ups, whether it's a family breakfast, a business meeting, or a casual gathering with friends. The staff’s attention to detail and customer service enhance the dining experience, ensuring every visit is memorable. So, if you're looking for the top most breakfast place in Santa Monica that offers excellent food and a great atmosphere, head to this beloved spot. Whether you're a fan of gluten-free fare or just love a well-rounded breakfast, you'll find everything you need to start your day right.

[vintage1983]

Where’s a breakfast burrito? (at Santa Monica, California) https://www.instagram.com/p/BoMaTJYhLaA/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1yk3k0yii6n2

[lanewsline]

RESTAURANT REVIEW: Kitchen United Mix Now Open Inside Ralphs Westwood; Great Food from 11 Eateries, All in One Place

By Don Rose

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Imagine you have 11 restaurants on your "gotta try" list, and today's the day, but you can't decide where to go. You just can't settle on one. (Maybe you're with friends, which makes the choice even harder.)

Wouldn't it be great if you could go to all of them at the same time?

Well now you can, when you try Kitchen United Mix.

If you want sushi with your burger and pizza, it's the only place to go!

I just got to try out this new eatery concept, at their location inside the massive Ralphs in Westwood Village, and it proved to be an excellent experience. I chose to do pickup (they have delivery too), and the food was tasty, the order perfect, the staff friendly.

Based on my very first order, I can recommend the Haus Breakfast Burrito (from Bad-Ass Breakfast Burritos - I love saying that), the Freiburger and Impossible Burger (from Dog Haus), and the Spicy California Roll (from Wild Rice Asian Kitchen) - and I hope to try more items from their other restaurants in the coming weeks. Other eateries at the Westwood location include Fresh Brothers (pizza), Salads by Fresh Brothers, THE IMPOSSIBLE SHOP (plant-based versions of chicken, burgers, and more), SAJJ Mediterranean, bushi by JINYA (sushi, ramen, and more), JAILBIRD, Plant B, and Bad Mutha Clucka.

---

DEAL ALERT: their Facebook page says: "Happy Lunar New Year! It’s the year of the Tiger — we wish you strength, power, and prosperity. And as a tribute to the lucky number 8, get $8 off $22+ orders when you use code TIGER at checkout."

---

(The only thing keeping them from getting a perfect LA Newsline rating was that the order took longer than the estimated 15-25 minutes, but I expected that, since they've been very busy lately, and I understand that new restaurants can take a while to get everything running smoothly.)

LA Newsline rating: 9.5 out of 10.

---

Here are their LA area locations:

PASADENA:

55 S. Madison

Pasadena, CA 91101

SANTA MONICA:

1315 3rd St.

Santa Monica, CA 90401

Coming Soon – 2501 Colorado Ave.

Santa Monica, CA 90404

LOS ANGELES:

Westwood Ralphs

10850 W. Le Conte Ave.

Los Angeles, CA 90024

Coming Soon – Del Amo Fashion Center

21712 Hawthorne Blvd #156

Torrance, CA

---

WEB:

kitchenunited.com

https://linktr.ee/kitchenunitedmix

https://www.facebook.com/kitchenunitedmix

[formeryelpers]

Huckleberry Bakery & Cafe, 1014 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90401

Finally made it to Huckleberry Café and I wish I had come years ago. I could tell as soon as I stepped inside and looked at the baked goods (tarts, croissants, cookies, cakes, muffins, quiche, donuts, biscuits, cupcakes) and cold case with salads and pre-made sandwiches that I was in for a treat. They also had a menu of items you could order (all day breakfast, salads, made to order sandwiches) and a full coffee and tea menu. The coffee is from a local roaster, Café Luxxe.

Ginger Teacake ($5.50): A thick slice of moist gingerbread with a caramelized sugar topping – not too sweet, made with molasses and fresh ginger, absolutely delicious

Quiche ($8.50): A smaller slice but tall and one of the best quiches I’ve ever had. The egg filling was super creamy and tender like a delicate custard and it was made with some type of sweet squash. The shell was crispy and buttery.

Americano ($3.75): Pretty decent

The food is expensive (e.g., $15.50 for avocado toast, $16 for a turkey sandwich, $16.50 for a breakfast burrito) but high quality. They care about their ingredients and support independent local farmers that they know and trust. The baked goods are made with organic flour. They avoid ingredients with GMOs. The café also sold some giftable items like their mixes, nuts, hot sauce, wine, etc.

A 4% charge is added for employee health care. Service was very courteous.

5 out of 5 stars

By Lolia S.

[alice-bag]

Canterbury Tales - The Redbull Interview - Unedited

Excerpts of this interview were used in an article on the Canterbury (link). Here’s my original unedited interview, since I very much dislike being edited.

Canterbury Interview for Paula Mejía

Q: How did you come to live at the Canterbury? What made you want to? Alice: The news of these cheap apartments travelled fast among the punk community. The thing that initially attracted me was the price. I had moved in with my boyfriend (who was the drummer for the Weirdos) and he had a tiny bachelor apartment off Santa Monica Blvd. It was too small and not in a great area. The Canterbury was only a block away from the Masque, which was sort of the epicenter of punk in L.A.

We also heard that manager of the Canterbury was not super strict about verifying employment and if you said you were an artist or musician or freelance something or other he'd give you a pass. Q: Who owned the apartments? What was the landlord/owner like? Alice: I don't know who owned it. A man who called himself The Reverend managed it. He was a warm, funny guy. I actually had a job and pay stubs when my boyfriend Nickey and I went in to try to rent an apartment. I think the Reverend was impressed that I had a regular job. He seemed solicitous and eager to rent to us. Q: What was your impression of the Canterbury the first time you went there? Alice: It was run down and dirty with faint echoes of a glamorous past. It definitely had an old Hollywood, film noir vibe to it though it had obviously fallen on hard times. It was perfect in my eyes.

Q: What did it look like physically? Walk me through the space. Alice: It was a U-shaped, 4 story building. When you walked in off the street there was a garden path that split off on either side of a large, tiered stone fountain. As you entered the foyer, the floors were tiled and you could walk straight into the manager's office. When the manager was there, the door would usually be open. 

There were four staircases on every floor but if you were adventurous you could take a ride in one of the two tiny elevators that were on either side of the building. They were probably big enough for 3 people. They had the old fashioned steel cages that you would have to pull closed before the elevator door would slowly creep shut. The cables and motor made terrible groaning sounds as they struggled to pull you up, like old, overworked mules. Every now and then a broken cable would peek out from the roof of the elevator cab, that's when I stopped using them. Luckily it was around the same time that I broke up with my boyfriend and moved in with a friend to a first floor apartment!

The apartments themselves were very spacious. We were shown a 4th floor apartment that was next to the fire escape. I liked being able to climb out the window onto the fire escape landing to look at the Hollywood Hills or to climb onto the roof of the building. Hanging out on the roof of the Canterbury was fun. We had the city spread out before us. I remember someone projecting movies from the roof onto the side of the building one evening. There were no rules and the punks liked it that way. It was the way we lived our lives.

Q: Did the apartments fill a particular role that was missing? Was it hard to find cheap apartments around there? Alice: You have to understand that most of us looked very weird. The general population hadn't even heard of punk rock, they just thought we were kooks and not many places were eager to rent to us, so yeah, this place was in a great location, the owner seemed very open to punks and the apartments were large. A lot has been said about how worn and seedy this place was but I grew up poor and to me it didn't seem that bad. Where other people saw vermin and chipped paint, I saw freedom. Q: Where in Hollywood was it exactly? What was special about that area (if anything) compared to other places in the city? Alice: The building was on Cherokee, between a little street called Yucca and Hollywood Blvd in a building that has since been revamped and now goes by the name Artiste apartments. (1746 Cherokee). It felt like we were right in the middle of everything, it was right off Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame. You were constantly reminded of all the old movie stars. Just across Hollywood Boulevard and also on Cherokee was the Masque.

What else was around the Canterbury? Next door? (Were there problems with neighbors?) Alice: It was on the corner of Yucca and Cherokee so there was a street on one side, a parking lot on the other side, and I don't remember what was in the back. It was a residential neighborhood just a block north of Hollywood Blvd. There was a Two Guys From Italy pizza stand and a cheap burrito joint within walking distance. You could get a slice of pizza for a dollar, that and a pint of rum was my regular breakfast.

Who lived there when you moved in? Who else moved in during that time? Alice: I think we only knew one other person. A friend named Rod Donahue.

What was your apartment like? Who did you live with, who were your neighbors (punks and not)? Alice: I moved in with my boyfriend (Nickey Beat - Weirdos) into a fourth floor apartment but when we broke up I moved in with a friend (Shannon Wilhelm, later formed Castration Squad) who lived on the first floor. Not all our neighbors were punks but most were what I'd consider "fringe-dwellers," people who wanted to be left alone and who would usually leave you alone.

What about the space made it amenable to meeting people? Was there a courtyard, a place where people convened? Did people have an open door policy? Alice: No, we didn't convene there. We basically just went to each other's apartments. It seemed like there was always something happening somewhere in the building. Sometimes there were formal parties but most often we'd just hang out with each other. It felt like we were one big family and if you got bored in your apartment, you could always drop by and visit your punk neighbors.

Q: Was there a space where people practiced? In their living rooms? Alice: The manager allowed us to clean up and convert the basement into rehearsal studios and we were all pretty good about pitching in to help. We shared the space. Q: Can you talk about three songs that remind you of the Canterbury? Why does each one remind you of the space? Alice: Mostly I just think of the Go-Go's; they had a song called Living at The Canterbury (fighting off the roaches).