Science suggests people normally feel less hungry in hot weather, but we’d beg to differ — especially after a long day at the beach. These carefree hours are made for backyard barbecues, a bounty of ripe farmers-market produce, piled-high ice cream cones, picnics and poolside snacking, ice-laden cocktails sipped on shady patios and elegant evenings in dim, cool supper clubs. That’s why we’ve been obsessed with packing this issue full of delicious local flavors to whet your appetite for this sunny season or anytime.
In Toluca Lake, we’re certainly lucky to be located smack in the middle of a foodie wonderland. In addition to the beloved community cornerstones of our very own restaurant row, we’re within easy reach of the bustling dining districts in Studio City, North Hollywood, Burbank and beyond … and new restaurants are opening all the time. Our summer dining guide highlights seven standout local favorites and some of the fresh fare they have in store for the season. We’re also taking you bar hopping — ice-cream-bar hopping, that is, with a tour of nine nearby scoop shops and the fantastic frozen desserts that will not only refresh you through the sweltering days ahead but make you feel like a kid again, too. Several of our staff members have already set a goal of sampling a treat from each spot before Labor Day, and you might feel inspired to do the same! Just don’t hold us liable for any resulting brain freeze.
But if your idea of summer fun is more along the lines of curling up in air-conditioned comfort with absorbing tales of a bygone era, we’ve got you covered with some local history straight from the golden age of Old Hollywood. Remember the late Doris Day with our story of her time in Toluca Lake in the 1950s, then read about one of the neighborhood’s oldest and most famous houses, which has been home to a parade of stars — and some accompanying drama in their personal lives.
Meanwhile, in neighborhood news, we’re introducing you to LAPD Senior Lead Officer Kurtis Delbar, the new liaison between residents and the police officers working to keep Toluca Lake safe. Central to the effort of connecting cops and community is National Night Out, the annual event that builds positive partnerships to enhance public safety for all. Toluca Lake’s celebration is scheduled for August 6, and it’s a great opportunity to meet your neighbors, civic organizations and local first responders. Be sure to stop by the Toluca Lake Magazine table and say hello!
As always, I welcome you to connect with us on social media to share your thoughts, catch up on local happenings and see more of what we love about Toluca Lake every day. You can also explore TolucaLake.com for bonus articles, a business directory and our event calendar. And above all, I hope you and your family relish every delectable moment of this summer. Bon appétit!