Hello dear readers!!
Jilly Bites has returned. Yay!!!
Upon request, in addition to filling you in on the yummiest places to eat, I will also give you the heads up on where to find the best adult libations. Starting with … (drumroll please)
(Yes, that Dresden from the iconic 90s movie, Swingers. And yes, Marty and Elayne are still there!! But more on them in a minute.)
The Dresden is classic, full-on retro Hollywood. The decor appears to have not changed since it opened in 1954. Upon entering The Dresden, there is a Continental restaurant to your left, complete with deep, white leather booths and art deco candelabras; it looks just like something my grandparents would have frequented back in the day (side note, while my grandparents were dating, they kept a scrapbook filled with the cocktail napkins of different LA restaurants they frequented with their friends, I wonder if The Dresden made it into their book? I’ll have to look and get back to you). But I have not eaten at The Dresden’s restaurant, I’ve only been to their lounge, which is adjacent to the restaurant. I will just have to eat there and do a write up next time! All I know is that it looks and smells fabulous and you feel as if you were transported into another era. *Sigh*
Anywho! Back to the lounge.
Dimly lit, jazzy art on the exposed stone walls, small round tables with deep bucket chairs and the tunes of Marty and Elayne create the picture of a perfect night out at The Dresden. A full bar with one of those special bartenders who really understands the art and science of a great drink. Order a Hendrick’s gin Gibson, a glass of cabernet or just a bottle of beer to sip, listen to the evening’s performers and chat intimately with your friends. Not being a big drinker myself but knowing lots of bartenders, I have been given their happy stamp of approval for The Dresden! It is not trendy, scene-y, stuffy, or snooty. It is fabulous and warmly welcomes you like an old friend. Come to The Dresden and leave the drama of Hollywood behind.
1760 N. Vermont Ave., Hollywood, CA 90027
**Jill asks that you please drink responsibly and don’t drink and drive. Thank you!**
Neighborhood Hollywood Glamour
When I first came across the dear Cafe Audrey, I giggled in delight that there was a coffee destination such as this one in my neighborhood! Delicious sandwiches, soups, salads, pastries, and beverages are served here from extremely friendly staff amidst beautiful black and white decor; all an homage to the exquisite Audrey Hepburn. With Ms. Hepburn as inspiration, how could you go wrong? (Hint**You can’t!!)
First off, the coffee is robust, nutty and smooth. Then, if you’re hungry, pick one of their many options; I love the Roasted Bell Pepper and Goat Cheese Panini (it’s goat cheese! My favorite!), the Curry Tuna Melt, or the Turkey and Swiss Panini (hold the onions and tomatoes for me, please!), and almost everything on their breakfast menu. Many of the breakfast items are made with croissants, what a yummy way to start the day! And according to their website, Cafe Audrey offers a happy hour from 3-6 where for $2 you can buy a cookie and their house coffee with free refills! Recessionista, am I! (=
Cafe Audrey also offers free WiFi (YES!) and incredibly comfy tables and chairs, in the classy black and white style (with accents of red thrown in) that are filled with patrons. In addition to being a divine hot spot, Cafe Audrey supports local musicians by hosting live music events. Cafe Audrey is more than just a scrumptious cafe, it’s part of the community. In a city as large and superficial as Hollywood, it’s a refreshing mini-vacation to relax in a welcoming niche like Cafe Audrey.
**Note from me! I couldn’t help but also be reminded of my dear grandma while here at Cafe Audrey. My grandma’s name was also Audrey and she loved coffee like I love coffee. Must have gotten it from her. She was beautiful, feisty and classy. I’ll hunt down a photo and post it so you can see. (-:
