June Favorites 2023

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I went on an EPIC 11 day trip to Tokyo, Japan and had an amazing time. There was so much to do and see, but here are my highlights from my epic trip on things you should bookmark. I cannot wait to go back!

$ Bargain

Egg Salad Sandwich (Lawsons): There are convenience stores basically at every corner in Tokyo; however, Lawsons had THE BEST egg salad sandwich among all the different convenience stores I visited. I think it was a little less than $2 USD and I had at least three times during my Tokyo stay. If you want something more filing, buy a piece of fried chicken there (it’s extremely juicy and tender) and put it between the two slices of bread – you’ll thank me later.

Candy Apple (Candy Apple): Candy Apple is a local Japanese chain that is quite popular among Japanese locals. I went to the storefront at the Ikspiari Shopping Mall and really enjoyed the “plain” candy apple cut. The have many other flavors to choose from but I loved that the apple was so juicy and the sugar on the exterior gave it a nice crunch. The apple was around $5 USD. Click here to read more and here to see more close up photos.

Okonomiyaki (Vanpu): My friend and I stumbled upon this Vanpu somewhat accidentally. We were recommended to try okonomiyaki and this restaurant had open seats. This was my favorite meal on the entire trip. Our seafood okonomiyaki was 1040 yen, which is roughly $7 USD. Click here to read more.

$$ Moderate

Souvenir Shopping (Mega Don Quixote): This is like a massive Target in Tokyo, Japan. This particular branch is in Shibuya and has 7 floors. It can be a sensory overload, but I bought so many snacks, and misc souvenirs here, and honestly probably would have bought more if my suitcase was bigger. Read more here.

Resort Stay (Toy Story Hotel): If you love Toy Story, you HAVE to stay at the Toy Story Resort in Tokyo, Japan. The theming from the lobby, to the parking garage, to the courtyard is straight out of the movie and a one night stay in June was around $200 USD. I also didn’t have high expectations for the breakfast buffet at Lotso Garden Cafe (Yelp Review), but I loved it. Lastly, the room was exactly how I’d imagine Andy’s room to look. Don’t believe me? See a room tour here. To get tips and more info about this stay click here to read more.

Sashimi (Tsukiji Fish Market): Visiting Tokyo wouldn’t be complete without a culinary journey to the Tsukiji Fish Market. I think this probably has turned into a tourist trap, but the raw seafood here is very fresh and and the price was very reasonable. For example you can get a plate of four salmon sashimi for 500 yen ($3.46 USD), which is unheard of! Get tips here!

Theme Park (DisneySea): What an incredible park! They really do take you under the sea with really great aquatic attractions and shows. Ariels Playground (Yelp Review) is a must for all Little Mermaid fans, and Big Band Beat was a Broadway performance (Yelp Review) in English that I adored. Want to read my reviews on all the attractions/restaurants I visited in DisneySea? Click here to read my collection!

Theme Park (Tokyo Disneyland): I’m a big Disney fan so it was a no brainer to include Tokyo Disneyland on my itinerary and I am beyond impressed with this park. Tickets were 8400 yen for an adult (Approx $62.68), which is reasonable compared to California Disney Adult ticket price which ranges from $100-$160. Everything from the merch, to the rides, to the cues was magical. The Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast (Yelp Review) was my FAVORITE ride and I did it twice. The Disney Harmony in Color Parade (Yelp Review) was the highlight of the entire day, which should speak volumes. I ate a LOT of food at this morning and the curry from Hungry Bear Cafe (Yelp Review) and the Mike Wazowski Melon Bread from Sweet Heart Cafe (Yelp Review) were delicious! If you want to read about all the Tokyo Disneyland attractions/restaurant that I visited click here to see the collection!

$$$ Splurge

Shopping (Shibuya 109): Retail therapy! If you love fashion this mall that’s dedicated to J-pop, lolita, street wear and more is the place to be. Read more here.

Resort Stay (Tokyo Disneyland Hotel): If you want a very luxurious Disney stay Tokyo Disneyland Hotel will certainly fit the bill. They have regular rooms, but the character themed rooms are very popular and with good reason! At around $500 USD a night, I made a reservation for the Alice in Wonderland themed room and the room was perfectly themed and incredibly comfortable. Get a room tour here and read my full review here.

Have you been to Tokyo? Did I miss something? Let me know below!

Until Next Time,

Irene

May Favorites 2023

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Come check out my May Favorites!

$ Bargain

Birdwatching & Hiking Trails (Silverwood Wildlife Sanctuary): I don’t usually gravitate to nature as I prefer the concrete jungle, but this trail in Lakeside, CA is free on Sundays and was so peaceful. It’s monitored by volunteers and you should make a reservation online here. I really enjoyed the bird watching station. Read my full review here.   

Thrift Shop (Assistance League of North Coast): This chapter of Assistance League is located in Oceanside, CA and has very reasonable prices. They’re open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday (except holidays) and I’d love to go back and see what they’ve got. Read more here.  

$$ Moderate

Pie (Julian Pie Company): This was the first time in my adult years going to Julian to try apple and trust – the hype is real! Whether you want a slice of pie for $5.25 – $5.75 or a whole frozen fruit pie ($19.95) or frozen Chicken Pot Pie ($20.95) you won’t be disappointed. Read more here. 

$$$ Splurge

Sandals (Rainbow Sandals): The best sandals in the world IMHO are rainbow sandals and while you can get them online and many shoe stores, I like getting them from the factory outlet in San Clemente, CA where you can save about $10 for each pair. Read more here.

Until Next Time,

Irene

Comparing Disney Resort Character Themed Rooms in Tokyo, Japan

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Japan is well known for themed cafes and kawaii packaging, but did you know that their Disney Resorts have themed rooms? I decided to investigate and booked two different character themed accommodations and compared them side by side. I booked an “Alice in Wonderland” themed room (Yelp Review) at the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel and a Toy Story room (Yelp Review) in the new Toy Story Hotel, they just celebrated their 1st anniversary last month!

If you’d like to see a Room Tour of each click here for the Alice in Wonderland room and here for the Toy Story one. But without further ado lets check ’em out side by side!

Price

Alice in Wonderland: A Monday Night stay for two in June was ¥58,000 ($400.81 USD) and required a ¥20,000 deposit ($138.23). This is definitely a high end luxurious stay.

Toy Story: A Tuesday Night stay for two in June was ¥30,000 ($207 USD) and required a ¥15,000 deposit ($103.66 USD). This is a more moderate priced resort experience. Between the two the availability of rooms went faster for this one (I think because it’s a newer hotel and it’s more moderately priced)

Similarities: You’ll need to make your online reservation 3 months to the day on when you’d like to stay there. Call your credit card company in advance to let them know you’re going to Japan and to allow for foreign transactions. I was so stressed when my card wouldn’t go through. Both required a deposit to secure a reservation.

Lobby

Alice in Wonderland: All are welcome to this hotel. It’s very spacious and grand. It kind of evokes a Club 33 taste to me and the ceilings are very tall. At the center of the hotel is a big fountain and since they are celebrating Disney’s 40th Anniversary there are several banners and statutes of Mickey and friends throughout the hotel lobby area. On one side of the lobby there’s a very elaborate dollhouse that is also Disney themed.

Toy Story: Only Toy Story Resort guests are allowed on property. Be sure to have proof of reservation at all access points. The lobby itself is very colorful and the ceiling of the lobby looks like a board game with Bo Peep and her sheep. There are also other details such as Colored pencils as the pillars. There are two elevator entrances depending on which side of the hotel you’re staying on. One side is space themed, and the other is cowboy themed.

Similarities: The checkin desk is near the back, and there’s ample places to rest and relax. Also, both have very clean bathrooms on the 1st floor.

Courtyard

Alice in Wonderland: This courtyard is located next to the Hotel entrance, valet side. It’s very pristine and classy. The shrubbery is all geometric shaped and the shrubbery is designed just like the card suits.

Toy Story: There are two courtyards and both are very playful. Between the RC Racer Garage and Hotel Entrance there’s a playground with giant Jessie, Buzz, and Slinky Dog’s Doghouse. Between two of the hotel towers is another courtyard with Woody and Bo Peep. Both courtyards have ample spaces for kids to run around, and there were a lot during my stay.

Hotel Restaurants & Gift Shops

Alice in Wonderland: There are two restaurants (one buffet style, and one fine dinning) inside this hotel; however, since my friend and I did not want to splurge on calories and dough we ate off the hotel property. They have one large gift shop that featured many items from Tokyo Disneyland. Sorry I forgot to take photos – opps!

Toy Story: This hotel has one buffet styled restaurant called Lotso Garden Cafe (Yelp Review), which can only be accessed by Toy Story Resort guests. I made a reservation online, but since you pay at the vending machine outside I don’t think you need to make a reservation. The cafe is only open for Breakfast and Dinner. This hotel also has a gift shop that’s on the smaller side; however, they have a couple of Toy Story Hotel exclusive items such as a handkerchief, bag, and Lotso plush.

Similarities: They both also have a convenience store so if you forgot something or would like to have a bento box for breakfast or ramen for dinner this could be an option.

Checkin/Checkout

Alice in Wonderland: This counter reminded me a lot of any high end Vegas hotels. The staff on a whole spoke very fluent English and were very proper. There were a lot more foreigners from all over the world here. A gentlemen I spoke to in the checkin line was a diplomate stationed in Greece. I believe there were 10+ cast members helping with checkin. I do believe this is a much larger hotel.

Toy Story: The counter was incredibly playful and the staff here as a whole spoke slightly more limited English, but were really friendly and kind. I saw a lot more Japanese local tourists here as well as kids. I think if memory serves me right there were maybe 4 cast members helping with checkin.

Similarities: The check-in stations were all located near the back of the hotel entrance, and you can drop off your hotel key in the box when you’re ready to checkout. A perk of staying at a Disney Resort is that they will hold your luggage/shopping bags after you checkout and play at the park, which was a BIG relief!

Room Space & Stay

Alice in Wonderland: The room very whimsical and about twice the size as the Toy Story room, and probably more similar to what you might expect at a US hotel. There’s a closet as well as a vanity for guests to do their makeup. Additionally there is a full bathtub. I believe this was also carpeted.

Toy Story: There is no closet in this room. Instead they have an area where you can hang your clothes against the wall. They have a pushpin detail which is kind of clever and the TV looks like an etch-a-sketch! In the bathroom they have a half bathtub. The floor in this room is wood.

Similarities: Both had twin size beds and were equally comfortable. They both had separate rooms for the toilet and shower/tub, and a mini fridge in the main room. The shower water pressure and temperature were the same at both resorts, which were wonderful, and both had bidets.

Amenities

Alice in Wonderland: On the table they provided two eco-friendly reusable bags with the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel design and souvenir cups. They offered slippers inside the closet and I believe there were 6 pairs. All had Mickey Mouse designs on it.

Toy Story: The house slippers all had Andy written on the bottom of the shoes – so on theme! There were three pairs of slippers here.

Similarities: Both offered nightgowns to wear (can’t take home), and house slippers. Additionally, they both had wash cloths, toothbrush/toothpaste, and cups. Both had tvs, though all the channels were in Japanese.

Theming

Alice in Wonderland: The room itself blew my socks off. It was so whimsical and I really felt like it was a luxurious getaway. I think if I wanted to only stay at the hotel I would a book a nice to pamper myself in this room.

Toy Story: Everything is Toy Story themed! and honestly I cannot think of anything to make it even more thematic. They understood the assignment!

Resort Perks

Alice in Wonderland: Happy Entry for either parks (Disneyland or DisneySea). It’s directly across from Disneyland and they have a separate entry to in essence cut in front of the general public line.

Toy Story: Happy Entry for Tokyo Disneyland only. You can take the monorail to both parks as it’s directly across from the hotel.

Similarities: Buying Disney park tickets is a pain because it’s all in Japanese. If you stay at the resort all of the staff can help you purchase a ticket and depending on which park you want to visit you can earn a “Happy Entry” voucher which entitles you an extra 15 minutes head start in front of general admission, which doesn’t’ sound like a lot, but it makes a HUGE difference.

Summary: I really enjoyed both stays, but I had the biggest smile across my face when I went to the Toy Story Resort since everything was the same theme. At the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel I felt that it was somewhat disjointed since the theme wasn’t consistent across the resort, but it did feel a lot more luxurious. If you can only stay at one I’d recommend the Toy Story Resort, since it really brought a magical element that made you feel like a kid again. But if you want all the bells and whistles Tokyo Disneyland Hotel has three different themed rooms: Alice in Wonderland, Beauty and the Beast, and Pixie Hollow – and I wouldn’t mind staying there either!

Which stay would you prefer? Tokyo Disneyland Hotel or Toy Story? Let me know!

Until Next Time,

Irene

April Favorites 2023

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I know we’re already in July and these are April Favorites, but I know you’ll love these finds! I also now have a moment to actually publish these drafts so enjoy!

$ Bargain

Non this month, but maybe next month!

Left to Right: Bespoke (Corn Hash Charshu) top first column and 2nd photo in the 2nd column; Gam Ja Tang House (Black Goat Stew) last photo in 2nd column and 2nd/3rd photo in the 3rd column; Sweet Rice (Kao Soi Curry Noodle) 1st phone in the 3rd column and 2nd/3rd photo in the last column.

$$ Moderate

Kao Soi Curry Noodles (Sweet Rice): If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful soupy meal, The Kao Soi Curry Noodle bowl in Gardena will surely fit the bill! My bowl was $15.99 and I devoured it. Read the full review here!

Corn Hash Charshu (Bespoke All Day Cafe): Bespoke is located in a more suburban part of Las Vegas, NV. I came here with my family and we each ordered a dish. I loved the Corn Hash Charshu ($15) and in essence licked my plate clean; however, I took a bite from everyone’s dish and enjoyed everything. I also loved the restaurant interior as it was very peaceful and calm. Read a more thorough review here.

Black Goat Stew (Gam Ja Tang House): If you like authentic Korean food you should hit up Gam Ja Tang House in Garden Grove, CA. They have individual portion as well as small (for 2) and large (3+). The goat is extremely tender and it’s not too spicy Read more here.

$$$ Splurge

Character Cotton Candy (Polar Playground): This is a Tik Tok famous shop in Huntington Beach, CA that handcrafts Cotton Candy to a wide variety of characters. $20 a pop may see, pricey for candy, but I’m really impressed with the artistry. See more here.

Until Next Time,

Irene

March Favorites 2023

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The hours for my seasonal part-time job ramped up so I equally if not even more so busy than usual. My grandma also passed away this month so I had more responsibilities on my plate than usual. Regardless, I was able to enjoy a few indulgences to help me get through the month. Check ’em out!

Blooms at Diamond Valley Lake

$ Bargain

The Blooms (Diamond Valley Lake): See a sea of beautiful wildflowers in the city of Hemet. Vehicle is $11 and $4 per person to see the blooms. It does get busy so plan to come early! Get more tips here!

Wondercon and Brisker Sandwich (bottom two)

$$ Moderate

Convention (Wondercon): Wondercon is one of my favorite conventions as there’s a great assortment of vendors, cosplays, and panels. It’s the baby brother of SDCC but for $35-$55 a day (or 3 day early bird for $120), it’s affordable and you don’t have to fight over getting a ticket. Learn more here.

Brisket Sandwich (Destination Smokehouse & Eatery): If you love meat you’ll love the BBQ at Destination Smokehouse in Hemet, CA. The Brisket & Cheddar ($14.50) Sando is where it’s at! Drool more here.

Fairytale Facials

$$$ Splurge

Disney themed facial (Fairytale Facials): If you love Disney and you want/need a few hours of pampering this woman owned business in Garden Grove, CA is for you. Treatment ranges from $150-$165 and I liked it so much that I already booked my next appointment. Read more here and see the video here.

Until Next Time,

Irene

February Favorites 2023

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2023 sure has been a wild year. I took on a seasonal part-time job (in addition to my full time day job) so I’ve been more occupied than usual to try new places; however, these were my favorites for this month and I hope you’ll check ’em out! Also, better late than never, am I right? lol

$ Boba drink (Taty’s)

$ Bargain

Boba Drink (Taty’s Speciality Coffee & Tea): I met up with a friend from out of town and Taty’s in Westminster, CA was a goof half-way point. The environment inside was very conducive to hanging out with friends, and/or working on a laptop with white noise. Boba drinks are roughly $4-$6 and there’s a range of fruity teas, lattes, and smoothie options. My go-to is Brown Sugar and their boba’s had the perfect texture. Read more here.

Octopus Fried Rice (Gaenali Bon Ha Korean Restaurant)

$$ Moderate

Hot Stone w/ Octopus, Vegetable & Spicy Sauce – Fried Rice (Gaenali Bon Ga Korean Restaurant): Read more here. I wouldn’t usually order fried rice at a restaurant, but this hole-in-the-wall mom n’ pop shop in Garden Grove, does a legit job and there are nice chunks of octopus in this one. This dish is $22 and definitely one I recommend to share. Read more here.

Bossom (Jong To Shul Lung Tang)

$$$ Splurge

Bossom (Jong Ro Shul Lung Tang): Garden Grove, CA has some amazing Korean food and the Bossom at Jong Ro Shul Lung Tang is no exception. If you want essentially yummy Korean tacos (Bossom) this is a good spot to enjoy ’em. For roughly $40 this is a great appetizer or meal. Full review here.

Until Next Time,

Irene

January Favorites 2023

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I know this is the most late I have ever been with a monthly favorite (especially since this is more than a month late!). 2023 has definitely been kicking my butt, but I didn’t want these finds to not get their spotlight. I hope you still enjoy these recommendations and stay tuned for for Feb Favs!

$ Bargain

Black Madonna & Monastery (Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey): Europe is rich with history, and I love seeing historic sites because it’s like you’re stepping back into the past. On my Barcelona trip my favorite attraction was actually an hour outside the city and located on a beautiful mountain top. Visiting the monastery and Black Madonna are free and while it’s a little out of the way I highly recommend visiting it. Click here to read more.

$$ Moderate

Convention (Anime Impulse, Asian American Expo, etc): I enjoy this Pomona, CA convention event since you can attend 4 different themed conventions for the price of one. Admission is $20 for adults. Read more here.

Calcots & Paella (Taverna El Glop): Everything I tried at Taverna El Glop in Barcelona, Spain was delicious, so much so that I went back three times in one week! One of the highlights was the calcots, which are Catalanian green onions that are blackened and enjoyed during the winter months (late December – February). I also really loved the paella and the black squid ink while it may look strange, was my favorite as it was super flavorful and rich. The rabbit and snail paella was also yummy, but honestly all of paellas are incredible since they’re all made to order. Read in greater detail about my amazing meals here.

$$$ Splurge

Facial (Facial Lounge) : I rarely pamper myself but after a long flight from Barcelona, Spain I decided to try out a custom vegan facial at the Facial Lounge in Costa Mesa. Their original location is in Newport Beach, but parking is more abundant at their second location. A custom vegan facial will set you back around $150 plus tip (so this is definitely a splurge), but my skin felts so hydrated and relaxed. Read about my entire experience here.

Gaudi Exhibit (La Pedrera – Casa Mila) Adult admission was €35 for this Gaudi exhibit in Barcelona, Spain. It’s a bit steep as I think patrons would spend about an hour herel; but it is a really well designed whimsical building. It was one of my favorite Gaudi Exhitis on this trip! Read more here.

Mascarpone & Raspberry Croissant (Pasteleria Hofmann): I enjoy eating croissants, but the mascarpone croissants and raspberry croissants at Pasteleria Hofmann in Barcelona, Spain were out of this world. I went back twice (actually three times but they were closed on New Years Day) and each time there was a line out the door for these baked good. I think it was €7 for one which may seem steep for a croissant but it’s so worth it! Hofmann’s won Best Pastry of Catalonia in 2020, 2021, 2022 and it’s lived up to it’s hype. Read more here.

Until Next Time,

Irene

Best of 2022 – Bargains and Splurges List!

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After months of exploring locally and across the pond I’ve compiled my absolute favorite finds from 2022! Be sure to bookmark these spots for 2023!

$ Bargain

Thrift (Cats Protection – Newcastle upon Tyne Charity Shop): I’ve been to my fair share of thrift shops and among the many shops I visited in the UK, Cats Protection had the best selection of ready to wear apparel at very reasonable prices. I bought my new favorite black wool coat (£10), 2 dresses (1 for £4 and the other £8), a necklace (I think £4), and a Pusheen bag (£2.5). All proceeds benefit cat rescue, education, and protection. Read more here.

Thrift (Veteran’s Thrift): I was looking for a few basic items for an upcoming costume and found several very fair priced items at the Veteran’s Thrift Shop in Chula Vista, CA (San Diego). You’ll need to dig, but there were gems to be found! Read more here.  

Dragonfruit lemonade (Healthy Juice): I’ve walked past this fruit cart several times when I visited LA Chinatown and thought to try them out. They allow guests to sample their beverages and mix them up! I decided on a dragon fruit and lemonade/chia seed concoction and it was so refreshing! I think regular was $4 and large was $5 – which is a steal considering they use all fresh fruit! You can check out their IG here.

Mochi (Shuei-Do Manju Shop): Authentic Japanese confectionary treats are always a fav of mine and the Butter Mochi at Shuei-Do Manju Shop in San Jose, CA was a star treat! A piece is $2 and most people will get a tray of at least 4, 6, 8 (or more). Check out my full review here.

$$ Moderate

Thrift (Save The Children Charity Shop): One of the nicest looking thrift shops I’ve ever visited is this mid-sized store in Clifton Village (Bristol), UK. They carry many designer and mid-high range items and honestly, you’d never know that you were at a charity shop. All proceeds benefits Save The Children, which is a cause I can stand behind. I bought this fuchsia pink dress for £20 and I absolutely love it! Read more here.

Baked Catfish Springrolls (Nam Giao Restaurant): Everyone inside this Garden Grove, CA restaurant was Vietnamese so I figured this was a local favorite. My friend and I shared a Medium Catfish (which I think was $40ish), though we probably could have gotten away with a Small, carved the flesh and plopped it into our Vietnamese burrito. Read full review here.

Harry Potter Backstage Tour (Warner Brothers Studio Tour London): Tickets for the WB Studio Tour London were a nightmare to get (and I’m not sure if it’s because they limited the number of timed tickets or if everyone just wants to go on vacation – probably a combination of both), but it was worth it (!!!) since it was my favorite memory on my entire London trip. There were a couple of interactive experiences, and I just loved reading about the details about the sets and seeing props/costumes etc. On my visit they opened up a new Mandrakes Greenhouse Exhibit which had great photo/video opportunities. Tickets were £49.50 (Roughly 60ish USD with tax for a single adult) If you’re a Potterhead you HAVE to come visit – but I recommend if you’re able to making those reservations at least 6 months out. See full review here.

Falafel Bowl (Sababa Falafel Shop): Anaheim, CA is known for Mediterranean food and Sababa Falafel Shop was a fantastic find. $10.99 bowl of misc veggies, seasoned rice, and sauces, (hummus + $1) plus falafel was a perfect way to end the day. Read my entire review here.

Duck Banh Mi (Cafe Bunn Mi): I’ve eaten a lot of banh mi’s in my lifetime, but the Duck Banh Mi at Cafe Bunn Mi definitely wins for elevated comfort food. Located in the heart of San Francisco, this hipster joint serves up made to order banh mi’s. For $13.04 it’s pricey, but the duck meat is just so incredibly juicy and succulent, and paired with the fluffy baguette and tangy slaw it was a masterpiece. *Chefs Kiss* Read more yelp reviews here.

$$$ Splurge

Sashimi (Sushi Ota): This San Diego, CA sushi bar has been on my bookmarks for a long time and finally I got to cross it off! I did a omakase ($130), and while everything was tasty, the sashimi was to die for! The raw seafood is definitely worth a visit. Read about my entire experience here and tips here!

Theater Performance (Harry Potter & The Cursed Child): Watching Harry Potter and the Cursed Child was a huge splurge as tickets were £199 (roughly 241.75 USD) for Orchestra 12 rows back; however, you must know that you’re watching two shows (so it’s an all day event). The special effects and the way they utilized the stage was really cool, and I enjoyed the storyline. Read all my tips here.

Tea Time (The Ritz London): If you want to experience the glitz and glamor of high society book yourself a tea time at the Ritz London. It’s hard to convey into words how regal and exquisite the experience is but I definitely think it’s worth checking out. Tea time was £67 per person (roughly 95 USD). Read full review here.

2 Michelin Star Dinner (Da Terra): My friend and I decided that we were going to treat ourselves to a really extravagant meal in London to celebrate our survival of the school year. After extensive research I picked Da Terra and this restaurant gave me the best meal of my life. At £189 per person, this omakase experience is not cheap; however, considering the four hour experience and over 30 unique items presented (all of which I loved) and the fact that I did not leave hungry makes this a more than worthy awardee for my June favorites. I wrote more extensively about my experience here on yelp and posted many photos (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3) on IG. Maybe one day I’ll do a dedicated post on the dishes Chef Rafael presented in a future post.

Until Next Time,

Irene

December Favorites 2022

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These are a few of my favorite things… Enjoy!

$ Bargain

Free Nativity Scene Exhibit (The Creche): I believe this is an annual event, but I was made aware of this free exhibit in Fountain Valley, CA. It’s free to enter and in the auditorium they have a 100 or so nativity scenes as expressed by different countries in the world (including a galaxy far far away). I really enjoyed seeing all the different materials used and the creativity at work. They also have local high schools and organizations perform as well. This year it was held during the first weekend of December. Check out their instagram page for more info.

$$ Moderate

Thai Food (Ruen Pair):  Great inexpensive and authentic Thai food in the heart of Thai town (Los Angeles, CA) is a winner in my book. The portions are generous so come in a small group (four is ideal) so that you can try many different dishes. The papaya salad, Tom Yum soup, and pineapple fried rice are bomb and roughly $15 a plate. Pad See Ew is also a solid choice! Read more here!

Comic Convention (Los Angeles Comic Con): If you’re looking to experience a San Diego Comic Con kind of convention but haven’t successfully secured your tickets through their lottery system, Los Angeles Comic Con (in Los Angeles, CA) is a great alternative and you don’t have to fight over tickets. They always a great range of celebrity guests on year they got Amy Jo Johnson (Pink Ranger from MMPR), Simu Liu (Shang Chi), and many more. Additionally, they have a lot of cool panels, vendors, artists, and exhibitors. This convention had historically been in October, but it looks like moving forward it’ll be a December convention. Single day starts at $35 + fees for adults and $95 +fees for a three day.  

Pop Person (Funko Hollywood): I’m lucky enough to get to attend premieres and sometimes get autographs from the celebrities in that feature. One of my favorite ways to commemorate the meeting is by purchasing a Funko Pop of that actor’s character and getting his/her signature. Well now we also can customize ourselves and get our very own Funko Pop with our own qualities. For roughly $25 I designed myself at the Funko Store in Hollywood, CA and thought it was so meta. Read about my entire experience here.

$$$ Splurge

Boodle Fight (Lola’s by MFK): Curious about eating with your hands? In traditional Filipino culture a Kamayan feast (or a boodle fight) is where an assortment of food is spread across banana leaves. This communal gathering does not allow for utensils and Lola’s by MFK in Anaheim, CA has a lot of protein options. On my visit our party of 10 paid about $55 each (including tip), which does lean on the more expensive side, but it’s a fun experience to try at least once. Read more here.

Hotel Stay (Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel): I came here with my family for my mom’s birthday. At $500 a night this was definitely a splurge, but the shower and bath robes felt very luxurious. Read more here.

I do want to note that while I did/am traveling to Barcelona, Spain this month I will hold those favorites in January so that I can get a better grasp on which of those are indeed the best finds. Happy holidays!

Until Next Time,

Irene

November Favorites 2022

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Here are my November favorites!

$ Bargain

Kimbap (Sodam): If you’re looking for an inexpensive, light snack the Fishcake Kimbap at Sodam in Dublin, CA will fit the bill. A tray of the homemade rolls go for around $7.50. Read about my entire experience here.

$$ Moderate

Baked Catfish Springrolls (Nam Giao Restaurant): Everyone inside this Garden Grove, CA restaurant was Vietnamese so I figured this was a local favorite. My friend and I shared a Medium Catfish (which I think was $40ish), though we probably could have gotten away with a Small, carved the flesh and plopped it into our Vietnamese burrito. Read full review here.

Fried Fish & Clam Chowder (The Codfather): My favorite find during my last minute Vegas trip is The Codfather in Henderson, NV. I ordered the Haddock for $12.50 and it was probably the best fried fish I’ve ever had. The meat was so buttery and the fried exterior has a nice crisp taste to it. Chowder was awesome as well. Read all about it here.

$$$ Splurge

Mediterranean Food (Desert Moon Grill): If you want truly authentic Middle Eastern Food, Desert Moon Grill in Anaheim is some of socal’s best. I ordered a Mix plate which has a little bit of everything for $29.99 and it was devine. Read my full review here.

Blossam (Jangmo): If you want authentic and tasty Korean food, that’s not bbq and tofu, Jangmo in La Palma has some really great traditional comfort dishes. My favorite was the Blossam, which is pork belly and veggies. You eat them like a korean burrito. They’re meant to be an appetizer and shared, but I ate that as my meal lol. I think it’s around $30 for the plate. My full writeup is here.

Hotel (Madonna Inn): I’ve driven by the Madonna Inn sign several times on past roadtrips and decided to spend a night there to check it out. I picked the Wilhelm Tell Room, which has an apple motif and a rock waterfall shower (very very cool). It was $407.47 a night including all the fees. Read all about my experience here.

Smoked Tea Duck (Z & Y Restaurant): Located in SF Chinatown this Michielin recognized Szechuan restaurant has a fabulous duck that you have to try. The bird itself was $28.95 plus an extra $10 for the wrap and condiments. So worth it. See what other things I tried there as well here!

Strawberry Shortcake (Bakery 101): $55 for a 8 inch cake is on the high side for me, but if you’re looking for that not too sweet classy dessert to serve your Asian family and/or friends this will not disappoint. Located in Santa Ana (it’s very closer to South Coast Plaza actually), this Japanese French style bakery has some amazing cake! See my full writeup here.

Until Next Time,

Irene