The fourth annual Sunset & Dine took place last night to celebrate some of the eclectic and innovative culinary concepts taking root near the famed intersection of Sunset and Vine – from chef-driven restaurants to well-known favorites, they were all there. Just like we mentioned in our Sunset & Dine preview, Hollywood definitely has earned itself its fair share of questionable reputations. However, most Los Angeles residents don’t realize all the development and change that has taken place in the area. Sunset & Dine showed attendees the new Hollywood, and all its great offerings.
“Sunset & Dine brings those who live, work and play in Hollywood together with local chefs, culinary professionals and musicians for a fun evening,” said Fabio Conti of Fabiolus Cucina. “The true entertainment capital of the world is transforming. There’s more than $1.8 billion in investment in the pipeline here. Special things are happening in Hollywood, and Sunset & Dine will give guests a taste of it.”
The event was organized by the Central Hollywood Coalition, the non-profit board that manages the Sunset & Vine Business Improvement District.
Food
Restaurants from around the area showed up in full force to showcase their specialties. From fast food restaurants to nicer sit down places, everyone was there. Find a list of some of the participating vendors below.
- Beso
- Blue C Sushi
- Ciabatta Bar
- Cleo at the Redbury
- Dandy Don’s Homemade Ice Cream
- Fabiolus Cucina
- The Farmer’s Belly
- Greenleaf Gourmet Chopshop
- Hollywood Farmers’ Market
- Kabuki Japanese Restaurant
- Los Balcones and Chavela
- McDonald’s
- Saint Felix
- Shophouse Southeast Asian Kitchen
- 33 Taps
- Tinhorn Flats
- Urban Masala
Attendees better have come hungry, as they were able to go from booth to booth and sample each establishment’s food. It was a great opportunity to see what tasty treats were in the area, so that next time you find yourself in Hollywood, you now will know the best places to hit up. Some of our favorites were Ciabatta Bar, The Farmer’s Belly, and Saint Felix. However, we had to sit down and decide which place was the winner in our book. Our answer. Kabuki Japanese Restaurant.
Kabuki Japanese Restaurant is located close to the intersection of Vine Street and Sunset Boulevard. Their mission is “to be the leader in the Japanese restaurant industry. We are committed to satisfying our customers completely with the best quality food, excellent service and great value while providing the most pleasant, clean ambiance.” They pride themselves on their delicious sushi and Japanese food, and taking people who have never tried that type of cuisine and turning them into “believers” who can’t get enough Japanese food! Kabuki was offering three different types of hand rolls- California, spicy tuna, and veggie. I tried the spicy tuna hand roll which was divine and melted in your mouth. I will definitely be coming back soon to have more!
Atmosphere
Not only were there tons of delectable food options to indulge in, but the atmosphere could not have been cuter. Set up in the BuzzFeed Motion Picture lot, attendees were able to walk around freely, socialize, listen to live music, layout on the grass, and more.
As it got dark outside, the place lit up with lights all over the place that contributed to the cute atmosphere. There were plenty of areas to take a seat and enjoy the company and food. One of the best parts was the live music that was curated by Amoeba Music. Attendees could relax in the grass and watch or get up and dance, both were popular options.
Everyone there seemed to be enjoying themselves including the vendors. It was truly impossible to get bored. Want a break from the food and music? Why not play a game of giant Jenga!
Overall, the event couldn’t have been any better. At no point, did it feel too crowded or rushed. Instead, attendees had plenty of time to enjoy the intimate experience. Not only did we leave will a full belly, but also a new understanding of all the great offerings in the area. I can say for sure that I will be spending more time in the Hollywood area now!
About The Sunset & Vine District
The Sunset & Vine District is a seven-year property-based Business Improvement District (BID) that spans 15 blocks along the world-renowned Sunset Boulevard, from roughly Schrader Boulevard on the west to the 101 Freeway on the east. Renewed in 2012, the SVBID is composed of approximately 138 property owners who are assessed $1.4 million annually to pay for security, maintenance services and marketing to promote the revitalization of the area. Major landmarks in the District include the Cinerama Dome, Sunset & Vine Tower, Sunset Gower Studios, The Los Angeles Film School, and the former Tribune Studios. More information on the BID is available at www.onlyinhollywood.org.