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WISH Charter School marches in theDarrell 2014 parade. This year’sat event will take place onvoted Saturday, July 4thby at 11 downin Loyola Blvd. from Bartender Lauren makes drinks Cinco. Cinco was Best Bar oura.m. readers this year’s BestWestchester Of poll. Park to LMU.
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We hope our Fifth Annual Best Of results encourage all of us to shop local and shop small when possible. If you haven’t been to some of the local gems on the list, please consider patronizing these businesses. By supporting local businesses and organizations, we help create a strong community, and allow these businesses to support local nonprofits, little league teams, school fundraisers and events the whole neighborhood can enjoy! Voting for the Best Of took place in two rounds. In our first round of voting, which took place from June 2 through June 27, our readers were invited to nominate their favorite local businesses
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The votes are in and we are proud to share the results of our 2016 Fifth Annual Best Of Readers’ Poll with you! Our neighborhood is made up of so many great restaurants, businesses and organizations, and we are honored to be able to recognize some of these outstanding community members every August in our “Best Of” issue.
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in a variety of categories. The top three vote-getters (or more if there was a tie) then went on to the final round of voting that took place from June 30 through July 17. Voting took place via a link from SurveyMonkey, and voting was limited to one vote per IP address. In the following pages you will find our “Best Of” honorees, as well as our runner-up “Favorites.” The list will include some newcomers that have never been featured before, as well as some local favorites that seem to be unbeatable. If you don’t see your favorites on the list, make sure to vote in next year’s poll and make your voice heard! While this poll is a fun way to celebrate community, it only represents a small portion of all the great things that make up our neighborhood. Thank you to all of our readers for voting. We are humbled by the support of our readers, advertisers and our community who make this publication possible! Congratulations to all of our 2016 reader voted Best Of and Favorite honorees!
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
-The Westchester/Playa HomeTown News
Best Of 2016
August 2016 • Page 9
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BEST NEW RESTAURANT LaRocco’s Pizzeria
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BEST NEW RESTAURANT LaRocco’s Pizzeria
8806 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.642.0029 or laroccospizzeria.com After much anticipation, LaRocco’s Pizzeria opened last fall and has been delighting the community ever since with its pizza that brings “a slice of New York” to Westchester. Stop in for a whole pizza or a just a slice of the craveable Paul’s Special made with a garlic and oil sauce, chopped basil, and Parmesan and mozzarella cheese with fresh sliced tomatoes on top, or the Farmers’ Market pizza topped with seasonal fresh veggies served on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Favorites: Sol Cocina
12775 W. Millennium Dr. #160, Playa Vista 424.289.0066 or solcocina.com
The Ramen Joint
6220 W. 87th St., Westchester 424.227.9328 or theramenjoint.com
BEST RESTAURANT Truxton’s American Bistro
8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com HomeTown News readers’ have voted Westchester’s Truxton’s American Bistro the Best Restaurant three years in a row. The restaurant,
which is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, is undergoing a makeover in August to help continue its reputation as an excellent dining choice for breakfast, lunch or dinner, no matter what you’re in the mood for.
Favorites: Cantalini’s Salerno Beach
193 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.821.0018 or salernobeach.com
Playa Provisions
119 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey playaprovisions.com or 310.683.5019
BEST STEAK HOUSE Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Villa Marina Marketplace Mall, 13455 Maxella Ave., Marina Del Rey 310.821.4593 or ruthschris.com Walk through this restaurant’s giant red doors and enter into steak house nirvana. Ruth’s Chris Marina del Rey takes home the best steak house honor for the second year in a row, thanks to their tantalizing steaks served on their signature 500 degree sizzling plates.
Favorites: George Petrelli’s Steakhouse
5615 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City 310.397.1438 or georgepetrellisteaks.com
Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com When you want a place to bring the whole family for breakfast, lunch or dinner, our readers love Marina del Rey’s Tony P’s. Its large menu, featuring everything from salads, pizzas, seafood, burgers and steaks, and its generous kids’ menu complete with “foo foo” drinks, ensures everyone has a good time when dining out.
Favorites: Dinah’s
6521 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.645.0456 or dinahsrestaurant.com
Truxton’s American Bistro
8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com
BEST BURGER The Shack
185 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.823.6222 or the-shacks.com HomeTown News readers can’t get enough of The Shack Burger! Voted Best Burger four years in a row, the behemoth burger features a 1/4 pound patty and a Louisiana Sausage link for good measure. If you’re feeling adventurous,
make it a double, and make sure to stick around this Playa del Rey hangout for karaoke night, or for one of your friends to walk through the door.
Favorites: Humble Potato
8321 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 323.989.2242 or humblepotato.com
Tompkins Square
8522 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1212 or t2barandgrill.com
BEST BUSINESS LUNCH SPOT Cafe del Rey
4451 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.6395 or cafedelreymarina.com Whether you’re looking to impress a new client or discuss a new marketing plan, Cafe del Rey has our readers’ vote for Best Business Lunch Spot for the second year in a row. While working on your five-year plan, enjoy the beautiful views of the Marina and dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients.
Favorites: Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
Truxton’s American Bistro
8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com
Tompkins Square Bar & Grill thanks you for voting us Best Neighborhood Bar for the 4th year in a row!
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BEST OF 2016
8522 Lincoln Blvd. 310-670-1212 t2barandgrill.com
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
THANK YOU WESTCHESTER FOR AN AMAZING
10 YEARS!!
VOTED BEST OF 2016 BEST RESTAURANT BEST AMERICAN RESTAURANT BEST CASUAL DINING BEST RESTAURANT CATERER
FAVORITE OF 2016 BEST BRUNCH BEST LUNCH SPOT BEST BUSINESS LUNCH SPOT
JOIN US AND SEE WHAT'S NEW! DINE IN • TAKEOUT • DELIVERY • CATERING • PRIVATE DINING WESTCHESTER (310) 417-8789
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WWW.TRUXTONSAMERICANBISTRO.COM Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
Best Of 2016
August 2016 • Page 11
BEST PIZZA The Good Pizza
BEST RESTAURANT Truxton’s American Bistro
7929 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.215.1883 or thegoodpizza.com 8115 W. Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.827.0500 or thegoodpizza.com Thanks to having two locations (one in Westchester and one in Playa del Rey), no matter where you are in the HomeTown News’ area, you’re never too far to grab a slice, or a whole 18-inch pizza, from this pizza joint that prides itself in using fresh ingredients and a menu that includes salads, pastas, paninis and daily specials.
Favorites: Beach Pizza
8601 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.827.2000 or eatbeachpizza.com
LaRocco’s Pizzeria
8806 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.642.0029 or laroccospizzeria.com
Page 12 • August 2016
BEST SANDWICH SHOP Mendocino Farms
4724 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.822.2300 or mendocinofarms.com With sandwiches like the Modern Tuna Melt, Vegan Banh Mi and the “Not So Fried” Chicken, there’s something on this Marina del Rey’s sandwich shop menu that is sure to pique your interest. Grab a bag of chips and browse the cold case for the perfect side-dish to round out your meal.
Favorites: Del Rey Deli
8501 Pershing Dr. Ste 3, Playa del Rey 310.439.2256 or delreydeli.com
Olive It
6231 W 87th St., Westchester 310.242.2092 or oliveit.com
BEST OF 2016
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
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BEST JUICE BAR Rainbow Acres Washington Blvd.
BEST JUICE BAR
Rainbow Acres Washington Blvd.
13208 W. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles 310.306.8330 or rainbowacresca.com Whether you’re a “Just Greens” type of gal, or a Wheatgrass Ginger shot type of guy, Rainbow Acres Washington Blvd. is ready to juice and blend your favorite combination of fruits and veggies. If you’re on the go, check out their selection of cold-pressed juices in the deli section, including our favorite, the spicy Orange’s Revenge.
Favorites: G’s Juice
343 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.822.7733 or senorgs.com
The Mad Carrot
207 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 424.228.4180 or themadcarrot.com
BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR Tompkins Square Bar and Grill
8522 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1212 or t2barandgrill.com For four years in a row, Tompkins Square Bar and Grill has been voted Best Neighborhood Bar. Its local owners, friendly atmosphere, full bar and menu items like the beastly Monster Burger, make this the perfect spot to meet friends, old and new.
Favorites: Cinco
7241 West Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.910.0895 or cincola.com
Tower Pizza
8351 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.410.4680 or towerpizza.com
BEST RESTAURANT IN A HOTEL Salt at Marina del Rey Hotel
13534 Bali Way, Marina del Rey 424.289.8223 or pacificahotels.com/salt
Salt, located in the hip Marina del Rey Hotel, is delighting diners with its take on fresh California-inspired cuisine with dishes that rely heavily on seafood.
Favorites: Beachside at Jamaica Bay Inn
14160 Palawan Way, Marina del Rey 310.439.3033 or pacificahotels.com/jamaicabayinn/restaurant
Barbianca at Hotel MDR
13480 Maxella Ave., Marina del Rey 310.822.8555 or hotelmdr.com
BEST WINE LIST Bacari PDR
6805 S. Vista Del Mar Ln., Playa del Rey 310.439.2100 or bacaripdr.com With a ceiling covered in bottles, you know this restaurant knows a thing or two about wine. While feasting on Italian-style small plates, order a glass (or two) of wine from their curated list of small production wines.
Favorites: Cafe del Rey
4451 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.6395 or cafedelreymarina.com
Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
BEST DESSERTS SusieCakes Marina del Rey
KC’s Crepes
Lyfe Kitchen
BEST LUNCH SPOT
Urban Plates
8320 Lincoln Blvd. #101B, Westchester 310.348.9697 or kcscrepescafe.com
Del Rey Deli
8501 Pershing Dr. Ste 3, Playa del Rey 310.439.2256 or delreydeli.com Since opening in 2013, Del Rey Deli has been the go-to spot for all your lunch needs. Whether you’re craving a classic turkey, the popular DR Muffaletta, or a salad, this Playa del Rey favorite is ready to take your order.
Favorites: Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
Truxton’s American Bistro
8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com
BEST RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE Playa Provisions
119 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.683.5019 or playaprovisions.com Also voted Best Date Night Restaurant, Playa Provisions’ four unique spaces--Dockside, King Beach, Small Batch and Grain--help set the mood you want for the perfect night out.
Favorites: Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4714 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.742.2253 or susiecakes.com When you’re looking for sweet treats, SusieCakes Marina del Rey has you covered with its selection of cupcakes, cookies, bars, pies and cakes. Check back at the bakery often for its seasonal specials, like the Blueberry Pancake Breakfast Cupcake or festive sugar cookies in fun shapes.
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
Favorites: Westchester Bakery
Rainbow Acres Washington Blvd.
6216 W 87th St., Westchester 310.215.9606 or westchesterbakery.com
Truxton’s American Bistro
8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com
BEST HEALTHY DINING OPTIONS 13208 W Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, 310.306.8330 or rainbowacresca.com
Favorites:
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
Best Of 2016
12746 W. Jefferson Blvd. #2200, Playa Vista 424.353.9003 or lyfekitchen.com 12746 W. Jefferson Blvd. #3140, Playa Vista 424.256.7274 or urbanplates.com
BEST HAPPY HOUR Cinco
7241 West Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.910.0895 or cincola.com
Favorites: Tompkins Square
8522 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1212 or t2barandgrill.com
Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
BEST CASUAL DINING RESTAURANT Truxton’s American Bistro
8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com
Favorites: Dinah’s
6521 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.645.0456 or dinahsrestaurant.com
Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
BEST BEER SELECTION Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
Favorites: Cinco
7241 West Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.910.0895 or cincola.com
The Tripel
333 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.821.0333 or thetripel.com
August 2016 • Page 13
CREATE YOUR COMMUNITY Working out is better together. Find friends who move you.
VOTED “BEST NEIGHBORHOOD GYM” FOR THE 4TH YEAR IN A ROW.
WESTCHESTER FAMILY YMCA ymcaLA.org/wc
NEW LOCATION
GATEWAY TO GO! Every Tuesday 11 am to 3 pm
@ SkyView Parking Lot 6101 W. 98th Street (Avion & 98th Street)
FABULOUS FOOD ON FOUR WHEELS.
AUGUST 16
AUGUST 23
AUGUST 30
THE SURFER TACO GRILLED CHEESE TRUCK WIENERSCHNITZEL LA PANINI GRILL WISE BBQ
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CURRYWURST RICE BALLS OF FIRE THE DELI DOCTOR TAINAMITE SUMO SALAD
PRESENTED BY
AUGUST 9
* food truck participants subject to change
www.gatewayla.org
Page 14 • August 2016
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK FOR WEEKLY UPDATES
BEST OF 2016
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
BEST THAI RESTAURANT
Favorites: Dinah’s
6521 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.645.0456 or dinahsrestaurant.com
Ayara Thai Cuisine
6245 West 87th Street, Westchester 310.410.8848 or ayarathaicuisine.com When you’re in the mood for Thai, Westchester’s Ayara Thai Cuisine is the place to go for all your favorite dishes like Pad Thai, Massamun curry and Tom Yum soup. For a great deal, stop by Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for their exceptional lunch combo.
Favorites: Thai Dishes
6234 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.342.0046 or thaidishes-la.com
Thai Talay
8411 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.3055 or thethaitalay.com
4375 Glencoe Ave., Marina del Rey 310.823.2283 or jnicholskitchen.com
BEST CATERER Olive It
6231 W. 87th St., Westchester 310.242.2092 or oliveit.com Olive It can create the perfect catering menu for any occasion with its selection of sandwiches, salads and appetizers.
Favorites: New York Food Company
2320 Alaska Ave., El Segundo 310.643.6151 or newyorkfood.com
Rise and Shine
BEST BAR
6511 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.649.0906 or riseandshinecatering.com
Cinco
7241 West Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.910.0895 or cincola.com Whether you’re looking for shaken, stirred or draft cocktails, the bartenders at Westchester’s Cinco are happy to whip you up one of their signature cocktails like the Hollywood Blockbuster, Writers Workshop or the Millionaire #5. The bar and restaurant, which specializes in authentic Oaxacan-style fare, is beloved for its happy hour and takes home the Best Bar designation in our poll for the first this year.
Favorites: Tompkins Square
8522 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1212 or t2barandgrill.com
Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT
BEST SEAFOOD Kanpai Sushi
8325 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.338.7223 or kanpai-sushi.net When you’re in the mood for sushi, look no further than Kanpai. The restaurant excels in beautifully plated dishes that highlight ingredients like tuna, yellow tail, calamari and shrimp.
Favorites: Playa Provisions
119 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.683.5019 or playaprovisions.com
Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
BEST BAKERY Westchester Bakery
Alejo’s
8343 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.6677 or alejosrestaurant.com Alejo’s takes back the top spot this year, thanks to their family-friendly atmosphere and wide-selection of pasta dishes. If you’ve never been here before, prepare to be wowed by their famous olive oil and garlic dipping sauce.
Favorites: Caffe Pinguini
This Westchester Triangle family-owned bakery has delighted customers for years with its custom cakes and wide assortment of cookies, pastries and danishes. 6216 W. 87th St., Westchester 310.215.9606 or westchesterbakery.com
Favorites: Angel Made Bakery
4542 Centinela Ave., Los Angeles 310.915.2078
SusieCakes Marina del Rey
6935 Pacific Ave., Playa del Rey 310.306.0117 or caffepinguini.com
Cantalini’s Salerno Beach
193 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.821.0018 or salernobeach.com
BEST BREAKFAST The Coffee Company
J. Nichols Kitchen
8751 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.645.7315 or laxcoffeeco.com When it comes to breakfast, The Coffee Company is king. Stop by seven days a week at this Westchester icon for Belgium Waffles with strawberries, Hawaiian bread French Toast or its abundant menu of omelets and skillets. But be prepared to wait in line, especially on the weekend, before you get to dig into these delicious dishes.
4714 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.742.2253 or susiecakes.com
BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT Paco’s Tacos
6212 Manchester Blvd., Westchester 310.645.8692 or pacoscantina.com Visit this family-friendly Westchester favorite for its generous combination plates, tacos, burritos and chimichangas, and don’t forget the margaritas!
Favorites: Benny’s Tacos
7101 Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.670.8226 or bennystacos.com
Hacienda Del Rey
8347 Lincoln Blvd.,Westchester
310.670.8588
BEST FROZEN YOGURT/ICE CREAM SHOP Yogurtland Westchester
8752 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.649.5600 or yogurt-land.com No matter the weather, Yogurtland Westchester is serving up some of the community’s tastiest frozen yogurt and premium toppings.
Favorites: Menchie’s Westchester
8815 S Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.642.8200 or menchies.com
Pinkberry Playa Vista
6020 S Seabluff Dr. #4, Playa Vista 310.862.2570 or pinkberry.com
BEST AMERICAN RESTAURANT Truxton’s American Bistro
8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com
Favorites: Dinah’s
4756 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.5373
Whole Foods Playa Vista
12746 Jefferson Blvd., Playa Vista 310.862.9900 or wholefoods.com
BEST BRUNCH The Coffee Company
8751 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.645.7315 or laxcoffeeco.com
Favorites: Truxton’s American Bistro
8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com
Playa Provisions
119 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey playaprovisions.com or 310.683.5019
BEST COFFEE SHOP Coffee Company
8751 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.645.7315 or laxcoffeeco.com
Favorites: Felicia’s Coffee Garden
8428 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey 310.305.1200 or flowersbyfeliciapdr.com
Tanner’s Coffee
6521 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.645.0456 or dinahsrestaurant.com
Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
BEST NIGHTLIFE Cinco
7241 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.910.0895 or cincola.com
Favorites: Tompkins Square
8522 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1212 or t2barandgrill.com
Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
BEST DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT Playa Provisions
119 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.683.5019 or playaprovisions.com
Favorites: Caffe Pinguini
6935 Pacific Ave., Playa del Rey 310.306.0117or caffepinguini.com
Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
BEST NATURAL/ HEALTH FOOD STORE
Rainbow Acres Washington Blvd. 13208 Washington Blvd., Los Angeles 310.306.8330 or rainbowacresca.com
Favorites: Rainbow Acres
200 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.574.2739
BEST RESTAURANT CATERER Truxton’s American Bistro
8611 Truxton Ave., Westchester 310.417.8789 or truxtonsamericanbistro.com
Favorites: Cantalini’s Salerno Beach
193 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.821.0018 or salernobeach.com
Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
BEST PIZZA SLICE The Good Pizza
7929 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.215.1883 or thegoodpizza.com 8115 W. Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.827.0500 or thegoodpizza.com
Favorites: LaRocco’s Pizzeria
8806 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.642.0029 or laroccospizzeria.com
Vinny’s Pizza
8412 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.641.8666 or vinnyspizza.com
BEST SERVICE Tony P’s Dockside Grill
4445 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4534 or tonyps.com
Favorites: Cantalini’s Salerno Beach
193 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.821.0018 or salernobeach.com
The Coffee Company
8751 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.645.7315 or laxcoffeeco.com
VOTED BEST THAI RESTAURANT AYARA THAI CUISINE - WESTCHESTER 6245 W 87TH St, Los Angeles, CA 90045
THANKS FOR VOTING FOR AYARA! ENJOY A FREE ICE CREAM ON US With purchase of $50 or more (Must present ad at time of purchase. Valid for dine-in / one time use only. Expires October 1, 2016)
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
BEST OF 2016
August 2016 • Page 15
BEST YOUTH SPORTS LEAGUE AYSO Region 7
ayso7.org AYSO has been voted Best Youth Sports League in this new category this year. Founded in 1971, the league’s six philosophies that include everyone plays, positive coaching and good sportsmanship, have helped thousands of children have fun while learning a new sport. The league is also a participant in the annual Fourth of July parade (pictured above).
Favorites: Del Rey American Little League drall.org
Westchester Little League westchesterlittleleague.com
BEST NONPROFIT
Airport Marina Counseling Service 7891 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1410 or airportmarina.org Airport Marina Counseling Service’s mission is to provide low-cost mental health services to those in need. Thanks to their programs, thousands of people have received help for relationship issues, mental illness, parenting, stress and life changes.
Favorites: Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary playasunrise.org
Westchester Lariats
8065 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.641.0669 or westchesterlariats.org
BEST FARMERS’ MARKET
Westchester Farmers’ Market
7000 W. Manchester Ave, Westchester 310.582.5850 or westchesterfarmersmarket.com The Westchester Farmers’ Market recently expanded to include two markets, one on Wednesdays at Westchester Park and one on Sundays in the Westchester Triangle. Stop by either market for your weekly veggie and fruit needs or to purchase lunch or breakfast items from the vendors who call the market home.
Favorites: Marina del Rey Farmers’ Market
Via Marina at Panay Way, Marina del Rey facebook.com/MDRFarmersMarket
Playa Vista Farmers’ Market 12775 W. Millennium Drive farmermark.com/playavista
Page 16 • August 2016
Photo by Glenn Marzano.
BEST YOUTH SPORTS LEAGUE, AYSO REGION 7
BEST PARKS PLAYA VISTA
BEST CHARITY/ NONPROFIT EVENT Race for Success
raceforsuccess5k.wordpress.com Next year, Race for Success will celebrate ten years of raising money for local schools through its 5k and 1k race that takes place at LMU. Participating local schools share the proceeds and a community expo after the race makes the event a perfect place to spend your Saturday.
Favorites: Jet to Jetty benefiting Airport Marina Counseling Service jettojetty.com
Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Cultural Dinner playasunrise.org
BEST NEIGHBORHOOD GEM Ballona Wetlands
The 600-acre Ballona Wetlands is a community treasure and a State Ecological Reserve with over 200 species of birds that visit or reside there every year. If you’d like to visit, consider joining a group like the Friends of Ballona Wetlands for their monthly Salt Marsh & Dunes Tour and their Freshwater Marsh Tours, or better yet, volunteer at one of their creek clean-up or volunteer days. More info, visit ballonafriends.org.
Favorites: Playa Pharmacy
8131 Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.823.4500 or playapharmacy.com
Westchester Lariats
8065 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.641.0669 or westchesterlariats.org
BEST COMMUNITY EVENT Fourth of July Parade
laxcoastal.com This year marked the parade’s 17th anniversary of celebrating community and Independence Day. Presented by the LAX Coastal Chamber, the parade brings thousands of people to Loyola Blvd. and features 50 entries that include community groups, marching bands, floats and more.
BEST OF 2016
Favorites: Race for Success benefiting local schools raceforsuccess5k.wordpress.com
Visitation School’s Food Truck Friday Nights 8740 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.645.6620 or visitationschool.org
BEST PARK
The Parks at Playa Vista
multiple locations, Playa Vista playavista.com With 27 parks, Playa Vista takes its commitment to open spaces seriously. The community’s beautifully landscaped parks include the popular Central Park with its giant bandshell, the Ballona Discovery Park with its replica of a Native American “Ki” structure and the newly opened Bluff Creek Fields with its dog park, tennis court and soccer field.
Favorites: Burton Chace Park
13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey (310) 305-9595
Westchester Park
7000 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.670.7473
BEST FOOD TRUCK EVENT Visitation Food Truck Friday Nights
8740 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.645.6620 or visitationschool.org Visitation’s Food Truck Friday Nights are the place to be once summer rolls around. May through September the school transforms their playground into a neighborhood block party with food trucks, live music and activities for the kids.
Favorites: Playa Vista Concerts/Movies in the Parks Central Park Bandshell, Concert Park, Playa Vista playavista.com
Westchester First Fridays
87th St & the Westchester Triangle, Westchester 310.670.3258
BEST FAMILY ACTIVITY
Movies & Concerts in the Park at Playa Vista
Come June, July and August, Playa Vista offers some of L.A.’s most robust concert and movie in the park programming. This month, families can enjoy a showing of Aladdin and the musicalstylings of a Stevie Wonder tribute band, Natural Wonder. Don’t forget to bring your beach blanket and your picnic basket!
Favorites: Bike riding Going to the beach
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
World, Meet FINGERTIPS A Destination in Its Own Right Playa Vista is where open space, recreation, entertainment, shopping, dining, tech and new homes all come together to reimagine your life in Silicon Beach. With a sense of connection all around and signature events always happening, it’s no wonder Playa Vista has become the Westside address of choice.
New Luxury Home Collections From the Mid $1 Millions to over $3 Million Sophisticated Apartment Homes
Begin your experience at the PL AYA VIS TA WELCOME CENTER 12700 W. Millennium Drive, Playa Vista, CA 90094 888.506.9941
Summer in Playa Vista
M OV IE S & C O N C E R T S IN T HE PA RK BE AC H S H U T T L E FA RM E RS’ M A RK E T
PlayaVista.com Plans, pricing, square footage, products, amenities and community/neighborhood information are subject to change. Model does not reflect racial preference. Homes shown do not reflect actual homesites for sale. © 2016 Playa Vista. All rights reserved. CalBRE #00991326.
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News PV007310 Playa Vista Ad | 10 x 14” | Home Town News | 8/4
BEST OF 2016
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Westchester is celebrating its 75th anniversary
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Playa del Rey remains a gem of a community that is proud of its small town beach feel. Its unpretentious vibe, places like The Shack and Tanner’s Coffee and the locals who would never dream of living anywhere else, help keep Playa del Rey a unique coastal locale.
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Since starting a private Facebook group three years ago for local moms to get advice, meet each other and share parenting tips, The Moms of Westchester/Playa del Rey Facebook group has grown to a 2,000+ strong network of women who are connecting and working to make Westchester/Playa an even better place to live. Founder Julie Zaller is proud that the group always rallies to help each other and the community, whether that is raising money to help a local man’s family after he thwarted a kidnapping, letting someone borrow a stroller or recommending babysitters. Said Zaller, “I’d like to give a shout out to all of the members who make and keep the group great. We do so much for the community within the group, but it would not be possible without all the great women who are members.”
BEST GROUP/PERSON WORKING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY Julie Zaller, Founder, Moms of Westchester/ Playa del Rey Facebook Group
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Julie Zaller, Moms of Westchester/ Playa del Rey Facebook Group
this year, and despite all the changes and development over the years, the community’s small town in a big city feel is still going strong. Westchester has been called Mayberry over the years, and thanks to neighbors helping neighbors, a large network of people working to improve the community and the fact that you run into people you know, everywhere you go, it may not be far off.
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BEST GROUP OR PERSON WORKING TO BETTER THE COMMUNITY
Playa Vista’s latest Runway development has brought new residents to the area, as well as an influx of new restaurants and shops. Places like Sol Cocina, Cinemark Playa Vista, Urban Plates, Whole Foods and Hopdoddy Burger Bar are cementing the neighborhood’s place as a destination for lunch, dinner or a date night.
Favorites: The Parks & Movies/Concerts in the Parks
Thank you to our readers for voting in this year’s poll!
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Classes Workshops seminars
save
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6700 West 83rd Street (Entrance on Dunbarton) Los Angeles, CA 90045 phone: 310-835-6700
visit our website for schedule of classes:
liveyogawellness.com
saturday, september 24th • 10a-8p WESTCHESTER ARTS & MUSIC BLOCK PARTY
Join us for a free, day-long community celebration filled with live music and dance, art, food and socializing. Come celebrate Westchester’s 75th Anniversary with us!
Visit our website for upcoming school tour dates!
westchester arts & music block party Hosted by the Emerson Avenue Community Garden
event & sponsor info: wamblockparty.org Page 18 • August 2016
BEST OF 2016
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
BEST THING ABOUT MARINA DEL REY The Marina itself Voted one of the best places to volunteer!
Westside Pacific Villages Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Thank you WPV Volunteers, Members & Friends BEST THING ABOUT MARINA DEL REY The Marina itself
Whether you’re biking around it, cruising around it on the WaterBus, or enjoying the views while sitting at Tony P’s, there’s no denying that the Marina is a beautiful destination.
Favorites: Boats and the Boating Culture & the Restaurants
BEST PLACE TO VOLUNTEER WISH Charter
6550 W. 80th St., Westchester 310.642.9474 or wishcharter.org WISH Charter’s parents, teachers and supporters love volunteering their time, skills and talents to help make this school one of the most sought after in the community.
Favorites:
Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club playasunrise.org
Marina del Rey Hospital (tie)
4650 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.823.8911 or marinahospital.com
Westside Pacific Village (tie)
8939 Sepulveda Blvd. #326, Westchester 310.695.7030 or thewpv.org
BEST THING THAT COULD IMPROVE THE COMMUNITY Find Solutions for RVs/Campers Parking in Neighborhood
An influx of RVs and campers parking along Manchester and on residential streets have neighbors concerned about safety, illegal dumping, trash and neighborhood blight that they hope the council office and the city will find a solution to as soon as possible.
Favorites: Better/More School Options & Improve Westchester Park
for voting us one of the
Best Places to Volunteer for the the 4th year in a row!!
(310) 695-7030
website: www.thewpv.org email: info@thewpv.org facebook: Westchester Playa Village Carol Oike Kitabayashi Executive Director, WPV
Thank you Westchester and Playa del Rey for voting AYSO Region 7 BEST YOUTH SPORTS LEAGUE! We have been serving the youth of Westchester and the surrounding communities for many years and are grateful for the continued support of our community. Visit our website ayso7.org for more information.
We will be concluding signups shortly; please register at eayso.org! Register for Region 7 at www.eayso.org More information at www.ayso7.org Ian McCullen, ayso7rc@gmail.com • Wendy Lane, wlane723@gmail.com
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
BEST OF 2016
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My Favorite Pet Sitter
310.920.2815 or myfavoritepetsitter.com
BEST PHARMACY Playa Pharmacy
8131 W. Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.823.4500 or playapharmacy.com This family-run pharmacy specializes in professional, fast and friendly service. As a community pharmacy that places importance on superior customer service and knowing their customers by name, they also offer medication reviews, flu shots, compounding and text and email refill reminders.
8145 Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.822.9115 or playawestautomotive.com When your car needs servicing, Playa West Automotive’s trained mechanic technicians will help diagnose the problem and help get you back on the road. Owned by local resident, Andy Marozik, the auto shop has taken our Best Of title five years running.
Favorites: B&J Service Center
6551 80th St., Westchester 310.670.4272 or bandjservice.mechanicnet.com
Loyola Automotive
8314 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.0822 or loyolaautomotive.com
BEST REAL ESTATE GROUP/TEAM Stephanie Younger Group
Favorites: The Real Estate Consultants
Marina Veterinary Center
8421 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.642.8080 or marinavet.com Dr. Rachel Jones and staff understand that each pet is unique and they treat every patient with care and compassion. The clinic offers a variety of services from holistic to traditional veterinary care for dogs and cats.
Favorites: Airport Cities Animal Hospital
1120 W Manchester Blvd., Inglewood 310.641.8800 or dogmd.com
Bay Cities Veterinary Hospital-MDR Page 20 • August 2016
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Favorites: Marina del Rey Pharmacy
8930 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #103, Westchester 310.670.3463 or westchesterpharmacy.com
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444 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 424.203.1828 or stephanieyounger.com Stephanie Younger and her team of dedicated agents are committed to helping you find your dream home on the Westside.
4558 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.5311
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7151 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.642.7653 or therealestateconsultants.com
Zacha Homes
6605 W 80th St., Westchester 310.215.1981 or zachahomes.com
BEST GIFT SHOP Flowers by Felicia
8428 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey 310.305.1200 or flowersbyfeliciapdr.com
Favorites: Guilded Cage
8917 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.641.7850 or westchestermhg.org
Petals ‘N’ Wax
13432 Maxella Ave., Marina del Rey 310.305.8883 or petalsnwax.com
BEST OF 2016
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
telesproperties.com
THE STEPHANIE YOUNGER GROUP STEPHANIE YOUNGER
424.203.1828 | stephanieyounger.com
THANK YOU HOMETOWN READERS FOR VOTING THE STEPHANIE YOUNGER GROUP AS THE BEST LOCAL REAL ESTATE TEAM
Real Estate. Reimagined.
7815 Nardian Way | Westchester | 4bd 4ba | $1,995,000
Cape Cod meets California residence with sweeping Pacific views and serene mountain vistas.
7427 Henefer Avenue | Westchester | 4bd 5ba | $2,189,000
Perched high on the Kentwood Bluffs of Westchester giving sweeping views from Santa Monica Bay to the Hollywood sign.
TOGETHER
13042 W. North Icon Circle | Playa Vista | 4bd 5ba | $2,499,000 Modern Luxury in Playa Vista. Architecturally, the facade combines the beauty of natural stone with a modern aesthetic suited to the California landscape.
7826 Denrock Avenue | Westchester | 4bd 3ba | $1,499,000
Exceptionally elegant and thoughtfully maintained home in the desirable Kentwood neighborhood of Westchester.
To make a difference, we Give Together by donating a portion of the net proceeds from every home sale to the local charity of our client’s choice. Contact me for more information and for all of your real estate needs.
Stephanie Younger: CalBRE #01365696 ©2016 Teles Properties, Inc. Teles Properties is a registered trademark. Teles Properties, Inc. does not guarantee accuracy of square footage, lot size, room count, building permit status or any other information concerning the condition or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources. Buyer is advised to independently verify accuracy of the information.
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
BEST OF 2016
August 2016 • Page 21
Photo by Stacey Cochrane.
BEST PROPERTY MANAGEMENT FIRM Drollinger Properties
8929 Sepulveda Blvd., Ste 130, Westchester 310.417.8048 or drollingerproperties.com Drollinger Properties wants you to bring your business to Westchester! The Westchester business district’s largest property management firm owns and manages a variety of properties including the Drollinger Building, the Paradise Building and the Westchester Village Shopping Center.
Favorites: All County Beach Cities
8929 Sepulveda Blvd. Suite 206, Westchester 310.216.4400 or allcountybeachcities.com
Decron Properties
6222 Wilshire Blvd., #400, Los Angeles 323.556.6600 or decronproperties.com
BEST ATTORNEY/LAW FIRM David Voss, Voss, Silverman & Braybrooke LLP
4640 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.306.0515 or vsbllp.com In addition to being an award-winning attorney specializing in representing individuals, families and corporate clients, Voss dedicates his time to giving back to the community through his work with the Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary, Boys & Girls Club and the neighborhood council.
Favorites: Matthew Swanlund, Aesthetic Legal 12777 W. Jefferson Blvd., Building D #300, LA 310.486.6958 or aestheticlegal.com
Vergari & Napolitano
5777 W. Century Blvd., Suite 1580, Westchester 310.410.4014 or laxlawyers.com
BEST FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY
Cozette Vergari, Vergari & Napolitano 5777 W. Century Blvd., Suite 1580, Westchester 310.410.4014 or laxlawyers.com Since establishing her own firm in 1996,
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Vergari has focused on family issues and estate planning in a caring, efficient and organized manner. Committed to the community that she lives in, Vergari has served in leaderships roles on the Board of Trustees of the Westchester Rotary Foundation, the Neighborhood Council of Westchester/Playa and the LAX Coastal Chamber.
Favorites: David Voss, Voss, Silverman & Braybrooke LLP 4640 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.306.0515 or vsbllp.com
Schomer Law Group
Inn at Playa del Rey
435 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.574.1920 or innatplayadelrey.com Nestled on Culver Blvd. and adjacent to the Ballona Wetlands, the 22-room Inn at Playa del Rey is known for its casual elegance, superior customer service and their baked goods.
Favorites: Custom Hotel
8639 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.645.0400 or customhotel.com
Marina del Rey Hotel
8740 S Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 107, Westchester 310.337.7696 or schomerlawgroup.com
BEST OF 2016
BEST HOTEL/INN
BEST REAL ESTATE TEAM Stephanie Younger Group
13534 Bali Way, Marina del Rey 310.301.1000 or marinadelreyhotel.com
BEST FLORIST Flowers by Felicia
8428 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey 310.305.1200 or flowersbyfeliciapdr.com For 27 years, Flowers by Felicia has created beautiful arrangements fitting for any occasion. The Playa del Rey shop also has a Best Of gift shop and a coffee house.
Favorites: Playa del Rey Florist
307 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.821.0984 or playaflowers.com
Westchester Flowers
8520 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.645.6767or westchesterflowersla.com
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
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Playa West Automotive
Your Family-Owned, Friendly Neighborhood Auto Repair Shop • Service and Repair at a Price that’s Fair... Since 1962
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At Playa West Automotive, There are “No Problems - Only Solutions”
Voted Best Auto Shop in the HomeTown News Five Years in a Row! Voted Best Auto Shop in The Argonaut Four Years in a Row! Named Visitation Family of the Year 2014! Thank you for your Support!
A TRADITION OF SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY AND EVENTS! Building loyal client relationships on a foundation of honesty, integrity, reliability and customer satisfaction is the hallmark of our success. Open Monday to Saturday 8am - 6pm Closed Sundays
Complete Auto Repair and Service
Dedicated Smog Technician
Servicing all vehicles, foreign and domestic, including vintage/classic autos
No job too large or small–from engines to electronics to tires or bulbs.
Factory approved/state of the art Diagnostic Equipment Our experienced technicians are all ASE Board Certified
Please Call or Visit to Schedule an Appointment and/or Estimate • Andy Marozik, Owner/Operator 8145 W. Manchester Avenue, Playa del Rey, CA 90293 • 310.822.9115 • playawestautomotive.com Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
BEST OF 2016
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BEST OF 2016
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
BEST FINANCIAL BEST LOCAL SERVICES PROVIDER PHOTOGRAPHER Playa Vista Insurance Services
8055 W. Manchester Ave. Suite 202, Playa del Rey 800.834.2310 or playavistains.com Playa Vista Insurance Services is an employee benefits consulting firm providing new, fresh and cutting edge ideas when it comes to employee benefits, wellness, compliance and technology.
Favorites: Regatta Capital Group
2321 Rosecrans Ave. #2225, El Segundo 310.725.9102 or regattainvest.com
Sarlo Income Tax
1842 Washington Way, Venice 310.823.6363
BEST INSURANCE AGENT Peter Kohly
6320 Howard B. Drollinger Way #202, Westchester 310.641.3430 If you’re in the market for insurance for your auto, home, business and more, Westchester’s Peter Kohly can help you find the coverage to fit your needs.
Sherri Romero
8121 W Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.823.6552
Rachel Sunday
8055 W. Manchester Ave. Suite 202, Playa del Rey 800.834.2310 or playavistains.com
BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT
Stephanie Younger, Stephanie Younger Group
444 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 424.203.1828 or stephanieyounger.com
Favorites: Jane St. John, REMAX
155 Washington Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.567.5971 or westsidebeachhomes.com
Robin Zacha, Zacha Homes 6605 W 80th St., Westchester 310.215.1981 or zachahomes.com
BEST SHOPPING CENTER Waterside Marina del Rey
4700 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 818.637.8921 or shopwaterside.com The Waterside Marina del Rey continues to be our readers’ favorite shopping destination thanks to restaurants and stores like See’s Candy, Sephora, CPK, the Paper Source and Lorna Jane.
Favorites: Marina Marketplace
13450 Maxella Ave # 240, Marina del Rey 310.827.1740 or villamarinamarketplace.com
Runway at Playa Vista
Jefferson Blvd. at Runway Road, Playa Vista runwayplayavista.com
BEST PHARMACY
Playa Pharmacy
Marie Teagardin
310.283.2789 or teagardin.com When you’re looking to capture life’s most precious moments, our readers’ top pick can help you get pictures that will last a lifetime.
Favorites: Ann Abraham
annabraham.zenfolio.com
Ballerini Cooley Studios
8242 Sunnysea Dr., Playa del Rey 310.301.1576 or ballerinicooleystudios.com
BEST JEWELRY/ WATCH STORE Westchester Watch Works
630 N. Sepulveda Blvd. #12B, El Segundo 310.640.1074 or westchesterwatchworks. com This family-run business is known for its watch and timepiece expertise and specializes in the sales, service and repair of fine timepieces and jewelry.
Favorites: Blue Diamond Jewelers
8622 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.577.2211or bluediamondjeweler.com
Swiss Jewelers
4371 Glencoe Ave, Marina Del Rey 310.822.2753 or swissjewelersusa.com
BEST PET GROOMER
BEST HAIR SALON
BEST CAR WASH
4220 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.822.0700 Avenue Hair takes this year’s Best Of title for the second year in a row for making clients feel fabulous thanks to cuts, colors, highlights and styling.
8801 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.348.9677 or westchesterhandwash.com Whether you opt for the basic, deluxe or express wash, Westchester Hand Wash will leave your car sparkling.
Avenue Hair
Favorites: Head to Toe
6310 W. 89th St. A, Westchester 310.670.5853
Uncle Aaron’s
Wagz
8355 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.410.0494 or uncleaarons.com
Favorites: Petco Westchester
6205 W 87th St., Westchester 310.410.3221 With their buzzer and scissor skills, Gettin’ Faded takes our top spot in this year’s poll.
Seaside Grooming
Favorites: Francisco Barbershop
8125 W. Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.306.1090 or wagzinc.com When your pooch needs a haircut, Playa del Rey’s Wagz will have them looking great in no time.
8801 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.645.7198 or petco.com
Westchester Hand Wash
Favorites: Playa Vista Car Wash
6900 S. Centinela Ave., Los Angeles 310.915.0303 or Playavistacarwash.com
Handy J’s Car Wash
12681 Washington Blvd., Los Angeles 310.398.6211
CAR BEST BARBER SHOP BEST DEALERSHIP Gettin’ Faded Marina del Rey Toyota
4636 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.821.8979 or marinadelreytoyota.com Marina del Rey Toyota works to make buying and leasing cars easy thanks to its customer service and its knowledgeable staff.
318 Culver Blvd # C, Playa del Rey 310.823.7798
8901 Sepulveda Eastway, Westchester 310.215.3246 or franciscobarber.com/
Favorites: Airport Marina Honda
BEST NAIL SALON
6233 W 87th St., Westchester 310.337.1617 or jagsbarbershop.com
Lexus Santa Monica
Green Nails Spa
8801 S Sepulveda Blvd. # C, Westchester 310.641.4123 For all your nail care needs, head to Westchester’s Green Nails Spa. Whether you need a polish change, manicure or gel nails, they’ll leave your nails looking beautifully polished.
Favorites: Diane’s Nail and Spa
8135 Manchester Ave., Playa Del Rey 310.821.9056
CCK Nails
4726 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.821.6030
Jag’s Barbershop
BEST MOVIE THEATER Cinemark Playa Vista
12746 W Jefferson Blvd #3190, Playa Vista 310.862.5668 or cinemark.com This theater’s stadium seating and reserve-level luxury seats make it an easy choice for our readers’ favorite movie theater.
Favorites: Cinemark Howard Hughes 6081 Center Drive, Westchester 310.568.3394 or Cinemark.com
AMC Marina Dine-In
13455 Maxella Ave #270, Marina del Rey 310.827.7955 or dinein.amctheatres.com
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
5850 Centinela Ave., Westchester 888.381.0444 or airportmarinahonda.com 1501 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica 424.231.6601 or lexussantamonica.com
BEST CLEANERS Spring Cleaners
8636-D S Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.8867 Customer service, competitive pricing and a job well done put this Westchester dry cleaners at the top of our 2016 Best Of list.
Favorites: Triangle Cleaners
6242 W. 87th St., Westchester 310.670.9351
Sparkling Cleaners
8123 Manchester Ave., Playa del Rey 310.821.6251
BEST OF 2016
August 2016 • Page 25
6020 S. Seabluff Dr., Playa Vista 310.862.0400 or pvmedcenter.com For five years in a row, Playa Vista Medical Center has taken home our Best Urgent Care title. When you’re looking to treat an ear ache, get a physical, or need an x-ray, the center’s goal is to provide you with high-quality advanced urgent care.
Favorites: Marina del Rey Hospital ER
4650 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.823.8911 or marinahospital.com
Playa Vista Medical Plaza
5450 Lincoln Blvd., Playa Vista 310.305.9200 or playamedical.com
BEST NEIGHBORHOOD GYM Westchester Family YMCA
8015 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.4316 or ymcala.org/westchester The Westchester Family YMCA takes home the Best Neighborhood Gym four years running due to its commitment to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Whether you’re looking to get fit, join an exercise class or try camping for the first time, the YMCA has a program to fit your needs.
BEST SPECIALTY FITNESS STUDIO Playa Pilates
Del Rey Optometry
8511 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey 310.577.6401 or delreyoptometry.com When it comes to your eye care needs, Del Rey Optometry is committed to providing excellent and comprehensive service. Whether you need an eye exam, a new contact lenses prescription or are looking for a stylish pair of glasses, Del Rey Optometry is ready to give each patient exceptional care.
Favorites: Dr. Harold Ashcraft at Family Eyecare Center of Optometry
Photo by Chloe Moore Photography.
BEST URGENT CARE BEST OPTOMETRIST/ Playa Vista Medical Center OPTOMETRY OFFICE
8735 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.670.4411 or drashcraft.com
Dr. Jeff Marshak
390 Sepulveda Blvd. #1100, El Segundo 310.641.1700
BEST SPECIALTY FITNESS STUDIO Playa Pilates
6020 Seabluff Dr. #6, Playa Vista 310.862.0499 or playapilates.com This boutique Pilates studio in Playa Vista offers private and group classes with the aim of strengthening your core and improving posture and flexibility.
Favorites: L.A. Fitness Westchester
Favorites: Physical Therapy Care
Paradiso Crossfit
Seaside Shotokan
8601 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.846.0070 or lafitness.com
6214 Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.348.8464 or ptcare.com
4113 Redwood Ave., Marina del Rey 310.823.1383 or paradisocrossfit.com
177 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey 310.578.1789 or seasideshotokan.com
BEST YOGA STUDIO
YogaWorks Playa Vista
12746 W Jefferson Blvd #3120 424.228.8899 or yogaworks.com/location/ playa-vista YogaWorks Playa Vista is a brand new 7,500+ square-foot studio located in the community’s Runway development. The studio offers a wide-variety of classes from Gentle Yoga, Hatha and Vinyassa flow for both yoga newbies and seasoned pros.
Favorites: LiveYoga Wellness
6700 W. 83rd St., Westchester 310.835.6700 or liveyogawellness.com
Body & Brain Yoga
8801 Sepulveda Blvd #F, Westchester 310. 642.9642 or bodynbrain.com/ westchester-CA
BEST PERSONAL TRAINER
Jeff Blair at SoCal Sports and Fitness
8939 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #111, Westchester 310.497.0863 or jeffblairfitness.com Jeff Blair and his team at Westchester’s SoCal Sports and Fitness are ready to help you achieve your fitness and weight-loss goals. The team’s encouraging attitude and fitness expertise has their clients making big strides when it comes to health and wellness.
Favorites: Adrianne Pelt at Urban Athletes urbanathletela.com
Jackie Tadych @ Paradiso Crossfit 4113 Redwood Ave., Marina del Rey paradisocrossfit.com/bio/jackie-tadych
BEST DENTIST
Dr. Christie Burnett, Westchester Pediatric Dentistry
8540 S. Sepulveda Blvd #710, Westchester 310.216.5754 or smilewestchester.com Westchester Pediatric Dentistry’s Dr. Christie Burnett helps prepare her patients for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
BEST HOSPITAL St. Johns Medical Center
2121 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica 310.829.5511 or california.providence.org/ saint-johns Since 1942, St. John’s Health Center has been serving the Westside. The 266-bed awardwinning hospital known for its patient care tops our 2016 list for the second year in a row.
Favorites: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center 8700 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles 310.423.3277 or cedars-sinai.edu
Marina del Rey Hospital
4650 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.823.8911 or marinahospital.com
BEST DOCTOR OFFICE Westchester Pediatrics
8725 La Tijera Blvd., Westchester 310.670.1455 or westchesterpeds.com
Favorites: Playa Vista Medical Center
6020 S. Seabluff Dr., Playa Vista 310.862.0400 or pvmedcenter.com
Manchester Medical Group
6222 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.670.1840 or manchester-medical.com
BEST SPA
Spa del Rey at the Ritz Carlton MDR 4375 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.574.4356 or ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ california/marina-del-rey/spa Relax in luxury at the spa inside of the Ritz Carlton Marina del Rey. Enjoy the serenity of the 7,000 square foot spa for an array of treatments including facials, massages, body treatments and more.
Favorites: Blue Diamond Spa
8622 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.577.2211 or bluediamondspa.com
Spa Soleil
4728 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey 310.822.4200 or spasoleilmassage.com
Favorites: Dr. Kaz Tomimatsu
8930 S. Sepulveda Blvd Ste. 211, Westchester 310. 641.4074
McClintock Dental
6020 S Seabluff Dr. #5, Playa Vista 310.496.6000
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BEST OF 2016
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
BEST OF 2016
August 2016 • Page 27
8740 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.645.6620 or visitationschool.org
St. Bernard High School
9100 Falmouth Ave., Playa del Rey 310.823.4651 or stbernardhs.org
BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL St. Bernard High School
9100 Falmouth Ave., Playa del Rey 310.823.4651 or stbernardhs.org St. Bernard High School makes its first appearance on our Best Of list this year. The high school offers single-gender STEM classes, and its 2016 graduating class received more than $1.6 million in grants and scholarships.
Favorites: St. Anastasia School
7390 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.645.8816 or school.st-anastasia.org
Visitation Catholic School
8740 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.645.6620 or visitationschool.org
BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL WISH Charter School
WISH Charter School 6550 80th St., Westchester 310.642.9474 or wishcharter.org
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BEST CHARTER SCHOOL WISH Charter
8401 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.670.8977 or kentwoodes.org
Paseo del Rey Elementary School
Photo by Glenn Marzano.
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Favorites: Visitation Catholic School
Favorites: Kentwood Elementary School
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7390 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester 310.645.8816 or school.st-anastasia.org For more than fifty years, St. Anastasia Catholic School has promoted life long learning for its Junior Kindergarten through eighth grade students.
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St. Anastasia School
WISH Charter retains the title of Best Public and Charter School in this year’s poll. At WISH, the goal is to maximize every scholar’s learning potential within an atmosphere of caring and belonging.
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7751 Paseo Del Rey, Playa del Rey 310.823.2356 or paseomagnet-lausd-ca. schoolloop.com
BEST CHARTER SCHOOL WISH Charter School
6550 80th St., Westchester 310.642.9474 or wishcharter.org
Favorites: Open Magnet Charter
5540 W. 77th St., Westchester 310.568.0735 or opencharter.org
Westchester Secondary Charter 7001 So. St. Andrews Place, Los Angeles 310. 216.6800 or westchestercharter.org
BEST UNIVERSITY/ COLLEGE Loyola Marymount University
1 LMU Drive, Westchester 310.338.2700 or lmu.edu LMU’s beautiful campus, its top ranking as a university in the west and numerous community programs make it our readers’ top pick for local university in this year’s poll.
Favorites: Otis College of Art and Design 9045 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.665.6800 or Otis.edu
BEST OF 2016
BEST SUMMER CAMP
BEST PRESCHOOL
1 LMU Drive, Westchester 310.258.8873 or lmulions.com/camps/loyocamps.html LMU’s generous summer camp and clinic program that includes basketball, cheer, tennis, aquatics and soccer, helps campers hone their skills, teaches good sportsmanship, and most importantly, how to have fun while playing.
6323 W 80th St., Westchester 310.670.5758 or covla.org Covenant Preschool is located on the campus of Covenant Presbyterian Church and since 1963 has provided high-quality half-day preschool programs.
LMU Sports Camps
Favorites: Camp Galileo
9100 Falmouth Ave., Playa del Rey 1.800.854.3684 or galileo-camps.com
Visitation Day Camps
Covenant Preschool
Favorites: Children of Our Savior Preschool
6705 W. 77th St., Westchester 310.215.3166 or oursaviorwestchester.com/preschool
Westchester Lutheran Preschool 7831 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester 310.670.5422 or wlcs.org
8740 Emerson Ave., Westchester 310.645.6620 or visitationschool.org
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
St. Anastasia CATHOLIC SCHOOL
Voted BEST Private Religious School!
Science Fair
Gateway to Art
s ing Art m r o f r e P
Festival Renaissance
Proud to be Voted “Best” Pride Panthers ! tor’s Cup YO Direc C 6 -1 5 1 ll in 20 3rd Overa
THANK YOU to all the Hometown News readers who voted for St. Anastasia Catholic School as the “Best Private Religious School” for 2016 — for the 4th year running! Grounded in our Catholic tradition, we have been helping shape young lives in the Westchester/ Playa del Rey community for more than 60 years. Special thanks go to our many community supporters: LMU Family of Schools LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce Scholar Ath William H. Hannon Foundation letes Msgr. Royale Vadakin Arts & Education Fund 2015-16 st udents who earned top while playin grades g at least one St. A’s Parishioners, Consultative School Board, sport per se Wyatt N., Ti ason: erney S., An volunteers PTO, and amazing school parents & volun Owen H., K na Z., iern an H., Paige G., Ian K., Lily K., Con ner F., and Andrea K.
Congratulations to our 2016 Graduat es!
St. Anastasia Catholic School 8631 S. Stanmoor Drive Los Angeles, CA 90045 310.645.8816 http://school.st-anastasia.org
Serving the Westchester/Playa del Rey Community since 1955 Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
BEST OF 2016
August 2016 • Page 29
BEST FAMILY ACTIVITY
Movies and Concerts in the Park at Playa Vista
BEST FAMILY ACTIVITY
Movies & Concerts in the Park at Playa Vista
Come June, July and August, Playa Vista offers some of L.A.’s most robust concert and movie in the park programming. This month, families can enjoy a showing of Aladdin and the musical-stylings of a Stevie Wonder tribute band, Natural Wonder. Don’t forget to bring your beach blanket and your picnic basket!
Favorites: Bike riding Going to the beach
BEST CHILDCARE PROVIDER Covenant Preschool
6323 W 80th St., Westchester 310.670.5758 or covla.org
Favorites:
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Carousel School
8333 Airport Blvd., Westchester 310.216.6641 or carouselschool.com
Children of Our Savior Preschool
6705 W. 77th St., Westchester 310.215.3166 or oursaviorwestchester.com/preschool
BEST PLACE FOR A KID’S BIRTHDAY Scooter’s Jungle
606 Hawaii St., El Segundo 888.516.1983 or scootersjungle.com Leave the birthday party planning to El Segundo’s Scooter’s Jungle. Choose between the Ultimate or the Village Arena both with indoor slides, zip-line and play yard for an unforgettable birthday experience.
Favorites: Bowlero Westchester
8731 Lincoln Blvd., Westchester 310.670.0688 or bowlero.com
Dave & Buster’s Westchester
6081 Center Dr., Westchester 310.846.9950 or daveandbusters.com
BEST OF 2016
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News
BEST OF 2016
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Westchester • Playa del Rey • Marina del Rey • Playa Vista HomeTown News