La Jolla learns to Cook, Wine and Dine from Chefs at the Marine Room

Posted on October 11, 2013 by lajollabluebook

This week, I attended a cooking demonstration and 3-course dinner plated and created by the famous chefs of the Marine Room. The landmark restaurant sits on La Jolla’s sandy beach, inviting the tides to lick its windows. Wednesday night had a dramatic backdrop of storm clouds behind a group of almost 50 guests seated and swirling complimentary glasses of Sauvignon Blanc.

I was able to talk with Chef Bernard Guillas before the demonstration. Like an artist, he described the canvas (a white plate) he and Chef Ron Oliver would be painting (filling with food). The meal’s theme was “Hunting Games” celebrating the hunting season and the season of comfort food. The appropriately named sommelier, Lisa Redwine, worked with Guillas to hand-pick a selection of red wines to pair with each course.

It was not a hands-on cooking class, but the chefs threw out a wealth of information. Every person in the room could watch the chefs slice, saute and spice the food easily in the angled mirrors on the ceiling. Like a well-rehearsed comedy act, they interacted with the audience well, playing up their contrasting personalities. Charismatic Chef Bernard bantered and winked while the soft-spoken Chef Ron quipped back with dry humor.

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TNT: Chromatic @ MCASD

Posted on July 10, 2013 by lajollabluebook

This July 11th the MCASD Downtown will hold its signature event TNT: Chromatic (Thursday Night Thing), showcasing an array of its permanent art collection, as well as new work. A portion of the permanent collection will be on display, from floor to ceiling, which will mark the most artwork the museum has ever had on display at one time.

Some of the new work includes a sculpture by artist Liza Lou, entitled “Color Field.” Lou’s piece was a collaborative effort, assembled in San Diego by everyday people, using beads made in Japan.

To coincide with its chromatic theme, an interactive sculpture will allow visitors to build their own LED stickies, place them on a 10×10 foot sheet of metal, and collectively create a color field.

Live music, drinks and food will also be available for purchase. For information and tickets visit the event page on the MCASD website.

A Special Thanks to Education Intern Eva DeLeon for showing us around the museum.

Celebrate a Special Event at a Luxury Hotel in La Jolla

Posted on December 19, 2012 by lajollabluebook

With ten local beaches, an upscale downtown district, and some of the area’s most popular restaurants, it is no surprise that La Jolla is one of the most frequented vacation destinations in California. Whether in town to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or a romantic weekend getaway, there are several award winning, luxury hotels in La Jolla that each offer unique features and amenities to make any occasion one to remember.

A favorite among vacationers is La Valencia Hotel. Situated along the coastline, the hotel is within walking distance to world-class museums, galleries, shopping and restaurants in La Jolla. Offering the perfect blend of location and recreation, the oceanfront hotel is ideal for those who are not only interested in relaxing, but exploring the surrounding area. The elegant, but historic hotel also boasts Mediterranean influenced architecture and décor, highlighting its old world charm.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines provides an all inclusive resort experience. Featuring natural colors, sandstone exteriors, brick masonry and natural stone surfaces, the Lodge at Torrey Pines was designed to look and feel like an authentic Craftsman style residential home. In addition to beautifully crafted accommodations, the hotel provides guests with a view of the Pacific Ocean as well as the Torrey Pines Golf Course. The Lodge, located along the 18^th fairway of the course, provides its guests with an exclusive guaranteed tee time program and special rates.

Hotel Parisi is another option for luxury hotels in La Jolla. Offering a distinctive layout created using concepts of Feng Shui, the holistic inspired and eco-friendly boutique hotel refers to its accommodations as a sanctuary. The Zen retreat features 29 suites and also offers spa and wellness treatments that are performed in the privacy of your room. For vacationers looking for a well deserved retreat, the Hotel Parisi provides an extremely relaxing and calming environment.

While the above hotels may be some of the more popular options for luxury hotels in La Jolla, there are many other upscale and boutique accommodations to choose from. Depending on your budget and what amenities and services you are looking for, there are smaller inns, as well as bed and breakfasts that also offer beautiful views of the water. Use our directory of La Jolla hotels for assistance in choosing the perfect hotel for your upcoming vacation or special event.