Just got this message from  Michael’s Santa Monica, one of my favorite places for super delicious and romantic dinners.  The perfect, candle-lit spot for couples to ring in the New York–or to give her a ring….

Come celebrate New Year’s Eve 2009 with an awesome party at Michael’s Santa Monica. The joint will be jumping, looking more beautiful than ever. The drinks will be flowing, with Champagne included with your meal. And the kitchen, led by executive chef Mikey Stern, will be humming, producing special menus featuring our renowned fresh, seasonal, regional California cuisine. General manager Mike Nicol and sommelier Andrew Turner will provide great service and wine advice about our award-winning wine list. Take your pick of two separate seatings: First Seating (reservations available between 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm): 5 courses, $95 per person (exclusive of tax and gratuity), including one glass of Champagne. (Click Here To View Menu) Second Seating (reservations available starting at 8 pm): 6 courses, $175 per person (exclusive of tax and gratuity), including free-flowing Champagne and dancing past midnight to music from renowned jazz musician Don Allen and his band. (Click Here To View Menu) For reservations, please phone Michael’s Santa Monica at 310-451-0843. Or make your reservations through . Tables are limited, so please book quickly. We hope to see you here for a great New Year’s Eve Party!

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When I stepped into the new Miyako Hybrid Hotel it felt like I’d left LA and gone to Japan. 

 Gracious kimono-clad receptionists greeted us softly with welcome smiles. The lobby speaks the Orient and everything about the highly-stylized 208-room reflects a yin and yang serenity.

 Hard to fathom such graciousness smack amid a bustling commercial area in Torrance, California, 25-minutes from downtown Los Angeles and a stone’s throw from LAX. We actually went to the hotel to sample the much touted Gonpachi Restaurant Sushi Bar & Lounge.

 We decided to tie it in with an over-night to see exactly what a “Hybrid Hotel” was all about. The whole experience proved rather pleasant. Your basic business traveler facility, there’s no pool or recreational facilities, but a spa and fitness center are in the works, and there’s free Internet connection, two computers available to guests, and shuttle service to and from the airport.

Unless you’re doing business at one of many Japanese corporations (Toyota, Honda and the like) that line Western Avenue, or need a place to plop on a LAX layover, you might be better off just going to Miyako to sample the Japanese fusion cuisine offered at Gonpachi.

The Diva loved her room.

 Comfortable and beautifully appointed , the bed actually engulfed us into a wonderful night’s sleep.   Nice touches include  coffee makers, ultra fine linens, 46 inch flatscreen TVs,, luxurious soaking tubs in which I indulged for a long bath, heated water bidets, and a special system that shuts off electricity when you leave the room (with the exception of a special plug for cell phones etc).

The management prides itself on being “green” and makes special other efforts such as labeling trash baskets for recycling and changing sheets every three days.

 We sampled Gonpachi early in the game—it had opened only two weeks prior to our visit, December 2, 2009. We were told the menu and the wine list weren’t yet completed. Named after “Shirai Gonpachi”, the main character of a Kabuki, a form of traditional Japanese Theatre, the restaurant has an authentic edge. We ordered several items and enjoyed every attractively presented bite from the house, hand-made soba and udon noodles, to plates such as Sunomono –thinly sliced japanese cucumber in tosazu, Meiji Tofu, silken tofu with shibazuke sauce, crispy fried chicken with ponzu sauce, Gindara Saikyo Yaki–grilled miso-marinated black cod, kobe beef and mushroom cooked in hoba leaf (this was particularly fantastic), mixed seaweed : sweet sesame vinaigrette, Red Snapper Carpaccio with blueberry, garlic chips and yuzu kosho(also amazing), Kobujime–thin sliced halibut sashimi on kelp with daikon radish and red chili peppers (couldn’t get enough of this but had to save room), Flying Dragon–spicy tuna roll topped with unagi tempura and guess what? Cheese cake for dessert that was outstanding. It‘s definitely worth checking out when you get a yen for really good Japanese cuisine. And, if you’re really into all these Asian, check out the adjacent Mitsuwa Marketplace—where you can pick up anything from Japanese spices to fresh fish, takeout food, clothing and even Shiseido cosmetics. Miyako Hybrid Hotel, 21381 S. Western Avenue, Torrance, 310-212-5111, www.miyakohybridhotel.com.

Since I’m sure  you’re curious, “Hybrid” according to the company suggests eco-friendliness which is carried through with solar-powered electrical system, environmentally responsible and recycled construction materials. Miyako refers to “a flourishing center of business and entertainment.” Miyako Hybrid is the newest member of the well-respected Japanese hospitality chain.

The Diva, draped appropriately in silk and designer duds,  felt right at home as she walked through the extravagant entrance of the Grand Del Mar, a $300 million, and 249- deliciously comfortable room resort situated in northern San Diego County.

Although its about as opulent as it gets, there is no sense of pretentiousness evident. Highlighted by a vibrant Mediterranean-Roman pan tiled roof and finely-tuned touches such as cast stone, copper, layered light, custom woodwork, glazed tiles, the resort conveys a surprising down-to-earth ambiance.

 I usually pick up a sense of a place from the check-in experience—which moved seamlessly from arrival at the elegant entrance where the attentive valets whisked our bags and escorted us to our posh Palazzo suite–a magnificent two bedroom affair with a huge balcony overlooking the golf course and mountains.

We were welcomed with champagne and snacks set neatly on the wet bar which separated a little area with a microwave and mini-fridge. Upholstered ceilings—a décor touch new to us—hinted at the unadulterated opulence of suite. Marble counter tops, gold-colored fixtures, rich woods, Italian linens, a sumptuous sofa, comfy chairs, flat screen TV, king bed, two full bathrooms with tub, shower, big, fluffy robes, slippers and upscale spa amenities completed the leit motif.

After we unpacked we walked around the interior which was decorated like a Christmas wonderland with gorgeous Yule time trees, poinsettias and lavish decorations. Even the outside areas were decked out for the season with more Christmas trees and ornamentation. We checked out the spa, a comfortably lavish facility with men’s and women’s areas. The female side provides peace and serenity with a gorgeous fireplace warmed lounge area appointed with canopied lounges, steam, sauna, lockers, Jacuzzi and of course showers and toiletries (all complimentary for guests). The adjacent spa pool was so inviting we aborted our tour to go get our swim suits.

We took a soak in the oversized Jacuzzi, which is surrounded by cushy lounges, did laps and headed into our respective spa areas for steam baths. I picked up the extensive, uniquely-designed spa menu and must confess the prices were a bit shocking with facial therapies starting at $175 to $270 plus a 20 percent automatically-added tip. But then considering the source and the quality of the treatments you do get what you pay for. Our 90 minute massages (which we had the following day) proved among the 10 of the all time list of this spa snob-maven-diva whose indulged in pampering all over the world.

We had reservations for dinner at Amaya, the hotel’s three meal restaurant, and decided it was best to boost our appetites with workouts in the perfectly equipped fitness center. Trust me when I tell you this hotel takes attention to details seriously. This Diva isn’t easily impressed and can be known to be a tad edgy at times. Our first meal at the Grand Del Mar was dinner at Amaya—an atypical three meal a day restaurant with a sophisticated setting.

 The experience proved flawless in every way, save for a slight problem with the air conditioning over our booth that left me chilly but was quickly remedied by the manager who brought me a shawl. Our meal was fabulous starting with Richard’s perfect martini and my glass of Lewis Chard. The food portion of the evening began for me with carpaccio of Balik salmon with candied onions and crème Fraiche and Richard’s Catalan-style shrimp with chile and lime broth, followed by braised short ribs cannelloni with beech mushroom ragout and a perfectly prepared veal chop and seared sea bass. We shared a cheesecake for dessert that was well worth the caloric splurge.

The next morning we participated in thehotel’s complimentary nature hike around the adjacent Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve.  The 90-minute trek, led by a naturalist (Dylan) explores the natural wonders of one of the last remaining undeveloped coastal canyons in San Diego with its 500,000 year old soils of vernal pools to 140 million year old sedimentary rock deposits. We climbed and trekked through varying terrains lush with 500 plant species, sycamore trees, live oaks, scrub oaks, birds, brooks, and a boulder-studded waterfall with volcanic rock.

 Dylan provided captivating narratives about the various Indians (La Jollan, Kumeyaay and San Digueno) that inhabited the area 7,000 years ago.   There we are (Richard and the Diva poised on the hike)…

This tour is not to be missed. We spend much of the afternoon in the Spa where I happily succumbed to the magical movements of David who worked out my sore muscles with 90-minute Athletic enhanced with aromatherapy oils, hot towels and much TLC. It was amazing.

The evening was spent over a much anticipated, leisurely dinner at the award-winning Addison, a fitting showcase for noted chef William Bradley’s culinary skills dramatized by iron and glass doorways trimmed with 22 karat gold accent, 20 foot high pyramid ceilings, and a limestone fireplace imported from Italy.

 The restaurant receives regular raves not only from the media and pleased clientele,  but the hotel staff each who are treated to Bradley’s multi-course menu. “It’s awesome,” beamed the valet who drove us from the hotel to the Clubhouse where Addison is situated. “You are in for a treat.” And we were.

You can opt to let Chef design a 7-course personal feast or choose your own selections. We opted for the latter. It was all good from Richard’s Martini and my Lewis Chard (okay I love the stuff) to the amuse bouche—a fondue of Parmesan, champagne and cream with curried yogurt spiced with orange– and beyond. We  tasted each other’s courses: butter baked salmon, rack of lamb, Japanese Hamache, Dover Sole, and pear confit ad black fig brulee with English bitter toffee. Each serving impeccable save for one episode where my salmon tasted like it fell in the salt shaker—apologies were proffered and a replacement made.

 I should point out that seasoning is left to the chef. No condiments are on the tables. None needed as recipes are fairly fussy and well sauced. Prepare to dine well and shell out at least $100 per person for a decent sampling with wines (of which there are many with a savvy sommelier (Jesse Rodriguez) to make suggestions and do pairings.

 The Grand Del Mar sits inland just jorth of San Diego. On site  diversions include a Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course, tennis, the 21,000 square foot Renaissance-style spa, four swimming pools, and hiking, cycling and fine dining. Please check out the slide show as photos are definitely worth 1000 words. www.theGrandDelMar.com , 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, San Diego, CA. 858-314-2020.

Big Bear now sports a 5,000 square foot outdoor Ice Garden Skating Rink– the first of its kind  in Big Bear Lake since Iceland closed its doors 3 decades ago, and the first outdoor ice rink since the Spalding Big Bear Woods Ice Rink disbanded in the 1930s.

The Diva hasn’t put on a pair of skates in a long time, but just might get back on the ice since they’re also offering lessons–and I will need some.  Anyhow for those of you who can, take the kids and check it out.

 “One of the top most requested questions we get from visitors, is they want to know if there’s a place to go ice skating here in Big Bear,” said Big Bear Lake Resort Association Visitor Information Service Director Rebecca Hrabia. “The age old question has finally been answered. Yes indeed, Big Bear now has an ice rink!”

 The new ice rink gives visitors another option for winter fun. It’s an activity the entire family can enjoy together, a romantic outing for couples, excellent exercise for all ages and a therapeutic remedy for city dwellers who just want to unwind. Ice Garden Skating Rink is open for recreational skating seven days a week starting December 11 through the first week of April, weather permitting. The Rink’s open from 12 noon to 6 PM  Sunday through Thursday and 12 noon to 8 PM. Fridays and Saturdays.

Single skate session prices are $8 for adults and $6 for children 13 years of age and under. Skate rentals are $4 per person. The pond style outdoor rink offers skating lessons for all skill levels and holds special events, skating exhibitioIce Garden Skating Rink is the newest winter attraction in Big Bear Lake this winter. The 5,000 square foot outdoor ice rink located in the heart of Big Bear Village opens tomorrow Friday, December 11. It is the first ice rink in Big Bear Lake since Iceland closed its doors 3 decades ago, and the first outdoor ice rink since the Spalding Big Bear Woods Ice Rink disbanded in the 1930s.

For more Big Bear Lake information check out www.bigbear.com or call 1-800-4-BIG-BEAR (1-800-424-4232). ns, hockey clinics and 3 on 3 pond hockey tournaments. To get all the details on planning a winter getaway to Big Bear Lake and to book reservations online, log onto www.bigbear.com or call 1-800-4-BIG-BEAR (1-800-424-4232).

With its open, airy design and mid-century vibe, RH at Andaz West Hollywood provides a whimsical yet  sophisticated setting. So relaxed and yet urbane, it offers a fun place to sit back and enjoy some creative cuisine with friends or family.   Executive Chef Sebastien Archambault, master of  market-to-table menus has concocted some festive meals to enjoy during the yuletide season…

 Christmas Eve – Thursday, December 24, served 3 to 11 p.m.

RH will offer a festive four-course menu featuring Chef Archambault’s own family recipes using California’s ingredients. Price is $65 per person (tax and gratuity not included).

Aperitif:  Foie Gras Crostini, plum and fig chutney, pineau des charentes

1^st Course:  Boothbay Harbor Lobster Parmentier, garlic, sea beans and salmon roe

2^nd Course:  Seared Santa Barbara Halibut, artichoke hearts, gold chanterelles, baby spinach

3^rd Course:  Foie Gras-Stuffed Petaluma Chicken Breast, butternut squash,

chestnut and chicken jus

Dessert:  Bûche de Noël

Christmas Day – Friday, December 25, served 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Christmas Brunch will be served along with a festive menu of “spirit-filled” cocktails. RH’s customary brunch items will be offered, including favorites like French-style Scrambled Eggs with smoked salmon and dill; Breakfast Salad; Homemade Crispy Duck Confit; and Gary’s Artisan Pork Sausage. (The restaurant will also be open for dinner with its customary menu.)

New Year’s Eve – Thursday, December 31

• 1^st Seating: 5 p.m.
• 2^nd Seating: 8 p.m.

Bid farewell to 2009 by indulging in Chef Archambault’s celebratory four-course New Year’s Eve menu. Reservations required. Price for the 1^st Seating is $70 per person; 2^nd Seating is $110 per person, which includes Champagne toast at midnight. Tax and gratuity not included.

Aperitif:  Poached Fanny Bay Oyster, smoked salmon, tiger lemon jelly

1^st Course:  Hudson Valley Foie Gras Terrine, plum and fig chutney, warm homemade brioche 

2^nd Course: Seared Diver Scallops, butternut squash, chestnut and celery,

chicken jus, black truffle

3^rd Course:  Roasted Petaluma Duck Breast, porcini, gold chanterelles,

sautéed baby heirloom potatoes, garlic and parsley, pineau des charentes sauce

Dessert: Homemade Dillon Rum Baba, bourbon vanilla whipped cream

 Happy New Year…forgetabout football and head out to the RH at Andaz between 10 AM and 5 PM for some good eats…

Enjoy  brunch chased down by some  detox cocktails  such as a green smoothie, mint berry juice and fresh limonatta, or more adult beverages like RH BloodyMarys, Margaritas, Martinis or screwdrivers.

 RH Restaurant & Bar at the Andaz West Hollywood,  8401 W. Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA,    reservations: 323-785-6090, web:    www.andaz.com

 The Diva Did McKenna’s in Long Beach

At the suggestion of my friend Bob from Long Beach a group of friends and I went to lunch at McKenna’s on the Bay in Long Beach. We wanted a spot on the water. It was our first time and we were delightfully surprised by chef Arthur Gonzalez’s creative cuisine. And even more taken aback when my husband asked our waiter if he could have a seared Ahi sandwich (which wasn’t on the menu) and the chef fixed one perfectly. I had halibut fish and chips and asked if they could substitute the sweet potato fries for the chips and they did without a second thought. The Cole Slaw slide was as good as I make it, and that’s saying a lot. One friend had sushi rolls, another the Ahi salad, and everyone was happy with their choices. The prices are moderate, my meal was $16, not sure what the perfect cappuccino cost though because another friend treated and I never looked it up. We all skipped desert, but now I wish I hadn’t. Anyhow I highly recommend the place with its great views of the Bay and assorted sail boats, catamarans and boats plying the McKenna’s on the Bay, 190 Marina Drive, Long Beach, 562-342-9411. www.mckennasonthebay.com. close friends and I spent one of the best New Year’s Eve at the Island Hotel years ago when it was a Four Seasons. W The Diva Did McKenna’s in Long Beach At the suggestion of my friend Bob from Long Beach a group of friends and I went to lunch at McKenna’s on the Bay in Long Beach. We wanted a spot on the water. It was our first time and we were delightfully surprised by chef Arthur Gonzalez’s creative cuisine. And even more taken aback when my husband asked our waiter if he could have a seared Ahi sandwich (which wasn’t on the menu) and the chef fixed one perfectly. I had halibut fish and chips and asked if they could substitute the sweet potato fries for the chips and they did without a second thought. The Cole Slaw slide was as good as I make it, and that’s saying a lot. One friend had sushi rolls, another the Ahi salad, and everyone was happy with their choices. The prices are moderate, my meal was $16, not sure what the perfect cappuccino cost though because another friend treated and I never looked it up. We all skipped desert, but now I wish I hadn’t. Anyhow I highly recommend the place with its great views of the Bay and assorted sail boats, catamarans and boats plying the McKenna’s on the Bay, 190 Marina Drive, Long Beach, 562-342-9411. www.mckennasonthebay.com. e booked suites and partied all night because no one had to drive home The hotel changed names and management soon after, but retained its elegance and charm. The food under chef Bill Bracken is still fantastic. Spa treatments are top notch, the fitness center fits the bill, the swimming pool and deck area is divine and well it’s all good. So if you feel like ringing in 2010 in style check this out: For New Year’s Eve the Island Hotel will feature performances by Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. beginning with a cocktail reception from 8 to 9 PM featuring Asian delights like made-to-order Sushi, sashimi, California rolls, Peking duck, pot stickers and dim sum and that some. Super chef Bill Bracken (one of my favorite chefs) will also be fixing his famous Mac and Cheese Times Three–Classic, with Laughing Bird Shrimp and Crispy Sweetbreads. Don’t fill up, because that’s not all folks. Dinner’s served from 9 to 10:30 PM A feast of: Panko-Crusted Dungeness Crab Cake with Baby Beets, Shaved Persimmons, Blood Orange Vinaigrette Duet of Pan-Roasted Veal Chop & Roasted Maine Lobster with Yukon Gold Potatoes and Forest Mushrooms Trio of Decadent Chocolate and Mignardises Then settle back for a night of dancing and reveling with Grammy Award-winners Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr. followed by a midnight champagne toast. Price is $795 per couple plus tax and tip. Add $100 for premier seating and $200 to spend the night. Island Hotel Newport Beach, 690 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, California 92660-6431, 888-321-4752. www.theislandhotel.com

I treated Richard to a two night stay in a villa at Grand Champions in Indian Wells, California, for his birthday, complete with spa treatments and a World Series win by the New York Yankees. Well, it just happened that the last game was played on his birthday eve and we ordered room service so we didn’t miss an at bat. Glad we opened a bottle of fine champagne, too, because it was an apt celebration to our team’s victory and the beginning or myhusband’s birthday bash.

I booked him a “Gentlemen’s”  facial and deep tissue  massage at the hotel’s  Aqua Serena Spa (www.aquaserenaspa.com)  and while at it an Anti-aging ritual and deep tissue rub for myself, especially since anyone celebrating a birthday gets a free 50 minute treatment when accompanied by a companion who purchases one (so it’s half price essentially, and all were well worth it.

Took him to dinner at Sirocco Restaurant at the Renaissance Esmeralda, next door to Grand Champions) on his birthday and again we lucked out with a price fixed $35 tasting menu that was superb from appetizers to desserts with a glass of wine each thrown in plus yummy desserts. 

I had proscuitto and melon, we both had pastas, risotto,  Mahi Mahi) and an amazing creamy dessert with fresh fruit .We splurged on a big uttery bottle of Rombauer Chard which made a perfect accompaniment.  Also sat on the fireplace warmed patio prior to dinner where he enjoyed a perfect martini an me a so so glass of wine. The pre-dinner drinks and dinner set  me back  about $200 but he’s worth it.

And what’s more we stopped at Morongo Casino Resort & Spa on the way back to LA where I’m a slot machine member and I actually won. The casino gives you credit for play and I had enough for the lunch buffet, which is quite an amazing spread for $11 per person. We rode home happy.

For more info go to www.hyattgrandchampionscom;  www.renaissanceesmeralda.com.

 

My husband Richard and I have stayed at Hilton Waikoloa Village many times and love  the spacious accommodations with their luscious lanais overlooking the blue Pacific.   Your  pamper-pursuing Diva however really digs the spa with a fully-equipped fitness center and salubrious treatments. Once we splurged on romantic seaside rub which took place in a quaint thatched roof hut overlooking the sea.  The sweetly scented plumeria and other tropical blossoms filled the  balmy air and set the mood for the theraputic/relaxing massages. We could hardly walk back to our suite after.  

We also like walking around the  nearby shops and sampling all the fun restaurants like the Water’s Edge,  Imari, Lagoon Grill and Boat Landing Pavilion, Orchid
Marketplace, Roy’s and more.  
As is common with specials  Restrictions Apply:

Illustration by Mona Safer Edwards

The Divaonthego is off to sample the year old Spa Luce at the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel & Spa. I’ve booked 80 minute couple’s massages for my husband Richard and I. I will be reviewing the spa so come back on Tuesday for a full report.

It does sound devine, 6400 square feet of  luxury with  ”celebrity-inspired”  treatments and top quality creams and elixirs from Sonya Dakar Skincare, Somme Institute and Red Flower. 

They also have a Red Carpet Spa Package designed for you know who..that includes an overnight in deluxe view room, wine and truffles on arrivl, 80 minute anit gravity facial, mani, pedi, two Martinis, breakfast for two and valet parking. 

A la carte pampering possibilities include a 5-part Japan Ritual massage which employs therapeutic flower oils, furit essences and minerals from earth and sea.  Apparently you’re purified with yuzu mimosa sea algae, deeply scrubbed with gingergrass, polished with nutrient rich rice bran and hydrated with rose, camellia and plum. My goodness it sounds exotic and yummy.  The grand finale is a shiats rub with kinmoxei wild lime silk oil that wakens you back up.

If you need cleansing the Hammam Ritual is another 5 part session which starts with a cleansing of Moroccan mint tea nd silt, then a vigorous scrubbing with coffee, oile stones and fresh lemons and a wrap in rich rhassoul clay. Hmmmm. Then you get a Turkish massage of cardamon, jasmine,bergamot, amber and cloves. What will they think of next.  Sound pretty herbacious to me.

Hey I’ve been spa trekking for years and pretty much have had everything done to me, tried on me and explained to me.  So I am really looking forward to a simple 80 minutes of salubrious massage side by side with my honey. I think they throw in a Martini and a whirlpool. Not sure. I’ll let you know.

The Renaissance Hollywood Hotel & Spa at Hollywood and Highland Center, 1755 N. Highland Avenue, 323-856-1200, www.renaissancehollywood.com.

Check out my column at:  http://www.examiner.com/x-23074-LA-Insider-Travel-Examiner~y2009m10d2-Halloween-WeHo-Stylethink-stilettos-boas-men-in-drag