Persian Comedian doing Stand-up!

Buzzin': Shampoo Lounge

Let's be honest: Yelp reviews suck. Well, they do for finding a place to get your haircut. I went to a salon a while back (I'll withhold the name to save the owner embarrassment), and the owner admitted that she had employees posting positive reviews on her own Yelp page. I thought it was just one bad apple from the tree, but none of the experiences I've had with salons on Yelp have been positive. So, I got a recommendation from a friend that happened to be my savior The Shampoo Lounge. It's an independently owned salon that does fantastic haircuts. You walk in and are offered a nice beverage. You walk over to the shampoo station and receive a thorough head massage, full with shampoo and condition. You then tell your stylist what look you're going for (show pictures, etc.) and let him do his magic. I've gotten my hair done here on several occasions, and I've been pleased every time. They have a happy hour special from Tuesday - Friday: 15% off for new clients! At Shampoo Lounge, you'll get the treatment and service you deserve. Try them out today - you won't regret it. On the web HERE. Visit them @ 3020 Pico Boulevard in Santa Monica.

Say Stunna: Oliver Peoples' Summer Sessions

After having a late lunch at Le Petit Four in Sunset Plaza, my friends and I were intrigued to see hipster sophisticates listening to house music and drinking wine coolers outside of what appeared to be a boutique. We walked in and were delighted to discover Oliver Peoples' Summer Sessions. Every Thursday night between 6pm and 9pm, the store holds mini-kickbacks, stocked with free booze (21+ only), a cool DJ, and discounted eyewear (Mosley Tribe - $99, Oliver Peoples/Paul Smith - $119). They have prescription glasses and sunglasses, and everyone is having a good time shopping for the perfect pair of frames. Very cool vibe, and some great deals. Be sure to check them out in the month of July! On the web here.

Cluster Truck: LA Food Truck Guide

A few months ago, I was with a few friends coming back from a show at The Improv in Hollywood. As we were walking back to the car, I saw an elephantine crowd of hipsters and hooligans hovered around a small white truck. I swept my way through the thick cloud of cigarette smoke to learn that we were in front of the Grilled Cheese Truck (featured above) - one of the more popular food trucks in Los Angeles. The line was going quickly, so we decided to get some Desert Melts (popular menu item). I was surprised at how mouthwatering the food was.

We've all seen the various food trucks sprinkled around the Los Angeles area. Here's a guide to our top 5 favorites (with their twitter handles):

-@coolhaus: The perfect hand-made ice cream sandwich.
-@bordergrill: Tacos, burritos, etc. Try the cucumber drysoda... surprisingly refreshing!
-@crepenaround: Fresh made crepes. Our favorite - Strawberries and Cream.
-@kogibbq: Serves Korean BBQ in tacos, sandwiches, etc. Very unique tastes.
-@barbiesq: BBQ Ribs ftw. Yum!

What are your favorite food trucks? Let us know! Locate trucks by following them on twitter.

Ah, Refreshing: Pinkberry Summer Deals

I'll be the first to admit that I'm an impassioned Pinkberry lover. Sure, Yogurtland and Menchies are comparable (and cheaper) alternatives, but nothing beats the sweet escape of a freshly swirled Pinkberry. The fervent Pinkberry advocates will be happy to know that they no longer have to go broke to eat a Pinkberry! Here are some great deals running throughout the summer:

-Watermelon Happy Hour: Purchase any size yogurt with the new Watermelon flavor (you can mix flavors), and you'll get 1/2 off your purchase! The savings add up quickly. Runs from 5-7 pm daily.

-1/2 off Receipts: If you bring your receipt in from the previous day's purchase, you'll get 1/2 off your order! Applies all day, 24 hour deal.

-Pinkberry Punch Card: For those of you who don't know, Pinkberry offers a punch card. Buy 10 yogurts of any size, and get one free! Be sure to stamp your card each time you go.

One last tip: Try honey on your next pinkberry. It sounds a little odd, but it's incredible.

Ooh Artsy: Sketchbook Project

I really enjoy looking at an artist's sketchbook. A friend of mine, who happens to be a fantastic artist, generously allowed me to skim through her sketchbook. It gave me a general idea of the kinds of things she likes to draw - I was inspired. For all of you culturalists in LA, check out the Sketchbook Project. The concept is simple - any artist can apply for a notebook which is filled with collages, drawings, paintings, etc. all based on a common theme. All the sketchbooks are then put on display @ Art and Shelter Gallery! I'll be there, so be sure to come say hello!

The Scene: 4 Artsy Days in LA

Wondering what to do this coming weekend? For all you culturites in LA, here are some cool things to catch:

-Thursday: What's On Your Plate?
A free screening of What's On Your Plate, a film about two 11-year old girls exploring the different tastes of N.Y. They talk to farmers, storekeepers, environmentalists, and eachother to understand where the food comes from. Located @ the Hammer Museum, Westwood. Tickets available one hour before show.

-Friday: Art Focus: James Turrell
Lecture on art and themes of artwork by James Turrell. Visit to his outdoor skyspace at Claremont University. RSVP here. Location TBD.

-Saturday: Sherin Guirguis; William Cordova
Opening reception for two new exhibitions. Sculptural installations, Western Artwork, over 100 drawings as well as a video installation. Located at LAXART in Culver City. 6-9 pm.

-Sunday: Richard and Felix: Twilight in Venice
Celebrates Richard Wagner's The Ring Cycle at LA Opera. Tickets $15. Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 3pm through April 25. Located @ The Met Theatre in Hollywood.

Image from: http://www.art-gate.org/artfocus.html

Bite 'n Bounce: Zankou Chicken

I love Middle Eastern food, but don't love the hassle associated with going out for a hearty Middle Eastern meal. Thankfully, there's Zankou Chicken. In about 10 minutes, you can have a full plate of mouth-watering Shish Kabob, rice, hummus, and vegetables (and all for under about $10). If you're feeling extra adventurous, try one of their falafels (don't ask for the calorie count). Zankou is kept clean and tidy, unlike many other "fast-food" Mediterranean restaurants, and you'll leave feeling like you got bang for your buck. Plus, free valet parking in the back! Located @ 1716 S Sepulveda Blvd.

Trippin' it: Las Brisas

LA has had such nice weather in the past few days, that a friend and I decided to drive down to Laguna Beach. We stopped by at Huntington Beach just as the sun was setting - incredible weather. We then trekked over to Las Brisas Restaurant in the Laguna. We were greeted by a Hungarian waitress who spoke fluent Spanish (can you say cultural?) and were seated promptly on the patio. My eyes were drawn to the Ahi Tuna Burger, which was topped with pineapples, mango relish, wasabi mayonnaise, and chile sauce. Sounded like an odd mix, but we decided to try it. It was nothing short of delicious. I can't decide which was better; the burger or the view! If you're bored during this Spring Break, take a trip down to the Laguna. You won't regret it!

The Full 360: West Restaurant

I had just finished dinner with a few friends at Katsuya, and we were trying to determine where to go for dessert. Someone suggested we go to "West" at The Angeleno. West is a chic restaurant/lounge that offers a full panoramic view of Los Angeles. Absolutely breathtaking. We only shared a few desserts and appetizers, but I've heard that the food is exquisite. Great vibe, and an awesome place to go for drinks and appetizers. I'm sure that once you'll go, you'll want to stay for a while. On the web @ westatangeleno.com