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Best Vegetarian Restaurants in California

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California’s healthy, eco-friendly mentality is so prevalent that it spreads to practically every aspect of the lives of its residents, so it’s no surprise that some of the best vegetarian restaurants in the country can be found in this sunny state. If you want your plate to be filled with healthy, meat-free options, check out these vegetarian restaurants in California.

Rutabegorz

Formed in 1970, Rutabegorz was a small “hippie joint” that only served coffee and desserts. Since then, it has grown into one of California’s most popular health-conscious restaurant chains. Now, with three locations to serve local vegetarians, vegans and health nuts, Rutabegorz serves good, fresh food at decent prices. The Orange location is quaint and cozy, in a converted old house, and the menu is massive, but locals swear by the Southwest Quinoa Bowl, chock full of fresh vegetables. Or, try the Peasant Mushrooms, a hearty creation featuring mushrooms stuffed with a vegetable medley of zucchini, bell pepper and carrots, topped with melted cheese.

Where: 264 North Glassell St., Orange, CA 92866

Elf Café

Intimate and elegant, Elf Café is perfect for a special occasion dinner for those who enjoy vegetarian cuisine. The menu is heavily influenced by Mediterranean culture, with offerings like the Vegan Shwarma Sandwich, Spicy Moroccan Kale Salad and Moroccan VegetableTagine. Make sure to make reservations in advance, as this popular spot can fill up on nights and weekends.

Where: 2135 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026

Evolution Fast Food

If you’re looking for good, healthy food fast, check out Evolution Fast Food. The concept of a gourmet fast food place may be foreign to you, but we can guarantee that you’ve probably never seen a gourmet vegetarian fast food restaurant. Evolution offers a selection of gourmet burgers, wraps, sandwiches, fries, smoothies, shakes and desserts made with no animal ingredients, refined sweeteners or artificial flavors. Additionally, the restaurant is plastic-free, as all containers and utensils are made from non-bleached paper or biodegradable food starch.

Where: 2965 5th Ave., San Diego, CA 92103

Noble Vegetarian

This little hole in the wall Asian fusion restaurant is a little out of the way for centrally located Sacramento residents, but it’s worth the drive. Primarily drawing its inspiration from Vietnamese cuisine, Noble Vegetarian is known for its faux meats in standout dishes like Orange Vegken, Roti Drumstick and Ruby Pearls. The mock chicken, beef and pork is so delicious and convincing that even those of the carnivorous persuasion sing its praises. Make to save room for a slice of their Vegan Sheese Cake – you won’t even miss the dairy.

Where: 5049 College Oak Drive, Sacramento, CA 95841

Source

Known as one of the best vegetarian restaurants in San Francisco, Source believes in serving hand-selected, quality organic food, with a menu comprised of vegan and vegetarian handcrafted sandwiches on freshly baked bread, healthful salads brimming with delicious ingredients, unique casseroles and hearty brick oven pizzas. If you’re on a raw diet, choose offerings like the Live Lettuce Taco or the Live Platter, featuring hemp tabouli, marinated mushrooms, green goddess salad, lettuce tacos and living chips.

Where: 11 Division St., San Francisco, CA 94103

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Ildi_Papp

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Guide to the Los Angeles Fashion District

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You can find just about any clothing item or accessory in the Los Angeles Fashion District, many times cheaper than retail.

The Los Angeles Fashion District spans 100 blocks, with more than 1,000 stores carrying roughly 4,500 apparel and accessory lines, and is the premier shopping destination on the West Coast. Open Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., you’ll find apparel, accessories, textiles and even flowers in this massive, cutting-edge district. Check out our guide to the LA Fashion District, including tips for first-timers, a spotlight of each notable area and how to do the District on a budget.

Know Before You Go

Navigating the LA Fashion District may seem like a daunting task, but by keeping a few things in mind before you go, you’ll be well on your way to shopping like a pro.

  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing and bring reusable bags or luggage strollers to haul away your purchases.
  • Many stores are wholesale-only, which means they are not open to the public. Look for signs describing which type of store it is.
  • Make sure to bring cash with you, as many stores don’t accept credit cards. If you forget, there are numerous ATMs throughout the District.
  • The selection of merchandise changes daily, so if something catches your eye, pick it up because it might not be there tomorrow.
  • Don’t be afraid to bargain – in fact, it’s encouraged!

The European Corridor

Known to bargain hunters as Rodeo Drive on a budget, the European Corridor is located on Pico Boulevard between Main and Santee Streets. Most of the merchandise you’ll find here is imported from France, Italy and other European fashion centers, which means you’re going to be spending a pretty penny on the evening gowns, dress shoes and suits you’ll find in the Corridor unless you know where to go. Stop in Fenucci Design (934 Santee St., Los Angeles, CA 90015) for elegant formal wear on the cheap.

Santee Alley

Essentially the antithesis of the European Corridor, Santee Alley is a continuously packed back alley of over 150 stores and vendors located between Maple and Santee Streets, from Olympic Boulevard to 12th Street, where adventurous bargain hunters generally go to find the most authentic knockoff designer goods, ripped DVDs and other bootleg items. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you love to bargain, Santee Alley is the place for you. Check out Pop USA (321 E. 12th St., Los Angeles, CA 90015) for authentic designer goods at rock bottom prices.

The Intersection

Named after the intersection at 9th and Los Angeles Streets, the Intersection is the name of the joint collective of wholesale showrooms and tradeshow producers in the Fashion District, with the bigger names being the California Market Center, Cooper Design Space, Gerry Building and The New Mart. These fashion industry leaders generally aren’t open to the public, but they hold sample sales on the last Friday of every month, when you might score a great piece for dirt cheap.

Menswear District

The Fashion District isn’t just about ladies clothes and accessories. Located on Los Angeles Street between 7th and 9th Streets, the Menswear District is where you can find fashion-forward suits, ties, shoes and other menswear accessories for great prices. The merchandise is often heavily discounted, and the best place to find designer Italian wool suits is at SuitFellas (756 S. Los Angeles St., Los Angeles, CA 90014), which specializes in affordable menswear.

The Flower Market

If you wander along Center Street between 7th and 8th Streets, you’ll eventually come across the LA Flower Market, the largest flower market in the United States, where you’ll find nearly every variety of cut flower plus potted plants, dried and silk flowers and floral supplies. If you’re not in the wholesale trade, the Flower Market is open to the public Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8 a.m. to noon and Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 6 a.m. to noon. There is a nominal entrance fee. Visit Kobata Growers (758 S. Maple Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90014) for the freshest and cheapest arrangements available to the public.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/aspectimages

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Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at the Best Doughnut Places Nationwide

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Celebrate National Doughnut Month at one of the best doughnut places nationwide.

A culinary medium lending itself to unique combinations, outrageous toppings and crazy shapes, the doughnut is one of the most versatile foods around. The Dutch are largely credited with inventing doughnuts in the 19th century, but you don’t have to travel to Europe to try this treat, as some of the best fried rings can be found stateside (and no, we’re not talking about Krispy Kreme). Since the month of October is National Doughnut Month, you’ll want to go ahead and start planning ahead with our list of the best doughnut places nationwide. After all, who can resist the siren call of a hot, freshly made doughnut glistening with glaze?

Sublime Doughnuts

Recently named America’s Best Bakery by Bake magazine, Sublime Doughnuts is located in an unassuming strip mall in the Atlanta neighborhood of West Midtown, just a stone’s throw from the campus of Georgia Tech. You may not think you’re in the right place, as the sign above this famed bakery merely says “Donut,” but once you see the crowd of people lined up for one of these signature treats, you’ll know you’ve made it. Chef Kamal Grant churns out favorites like the Orange Dream Star, the Chocolate Wild Berry Fritter and the Fresh Strawberry ‘N Cream. If you go on a Saturday, make sure to pick up the Maple Bacon Cheddar, a sweet and salty creation which is only available on that day.

Where: 535 Tenth St. N.W., Atlanta, GA 30318

Voodoo Doughnuts

You’ve never had a doughnut like a Voodoo doughnut. Featuring crazy flavor combinations and fresh ingredients, Voodoo Doughnuts is undoubtedly a Portland institution. People from all over flock to this funky, offbeat shop for the Bacon Maple Bar, featuring sweet and sticky maple icing topped with smoky, crispy bacon. Other favorites include the Captain My Captain, a vanilla icing doughnut topped with Captain Crunch cereal, and Grape Ape, a soft, fluffy yeast doughnut glazed with vanilla icing and dusted with grape powder and lavender sprinkles. But you can’t visit Voodoo without ordering its namesake doughnut, a chocolate glazed yeast doughnut shaped like a voodoo doll, filled with raspberry jam and stabbed with a pretzel stick.

Where: 22 S.W. 3rd Ave., Portland, OR 97204

Top Pot Doughnuts

Some of the best doughnuts in the Pacific Northwest can be found at Top Pot Doughnuts. Its two-story flagship location in Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood is almost as beautiful as the hot pastry creations themselves. You won’t find any majorly crazy combinations or toppings here, because at Top Pot, simplicity is king. Instead, their old-fashioned cake doughnuts, crullers and fritters come in flavors like chocolate-peanut and Valley Girl lemon, but they’re anything but boring.

Where: 2124 5th Ave., Seattle, WA 98121

The Doughnut Plant

Mark Israel, owner of The Doughnut Plant, comes from a long line of bakers and doughnut makers, so it was only appropriate that he open up one of the best doughnut places in the nation. Located in the Lower East Side near Chinatown, The Doughnut Plant continues to come up with innovative options, like the jelly-filled signature square doughnuts, the crème brulee and the sesame seed doughnut. One of the newest additions is a glazed oatmeal cake doughnut, sprinkled with dried fruit bits, oats and seeds, but whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed a delicious, homemade treat.

Where: 379 Grand St., New York, NY 10002

Randy’s Donuts

Los Angeles is chock full of doughnut shops on just about every corner, but Randy’s Doughnuts is a legendary stop located near the Los Angeles International Airport. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you see the huge doughnut atop the building, a landmark that dates back to 1952 and plays a cameo in the movie Iron Man 2. The buttermilk and crumb raised doughnut is a must-try, as is the size-of-your-face apple fritter, featuring chunks of sweet apple-cinnamon filling and a delectable glaze.

Where: 805 West Manchester Blvd., Inglewood, CA 90301

Photo credit: iStockphoto/miflippo

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Make a Splash at One of These Southern California Water Parks

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Celebrate the end of summer at one of these Southern California water parks.

Though summertime is almost over, the weather in Southern California is still warm and calls for plenty of outdoor activities. Luckily, Southern California offers up plenty of things to do, whether you’re with your friends or family, including bike trails, fishing trips, snorkeling and beach trips, as well as water parks. Get out of your apartment and celebrate the end of summer with your friends and family at one of these Southern California water parks.

Raging Waters
Southern California’s largest water park, Raging Waters covers more than 50 acres with 36 slides and other water attractions. Not your average water slides, this water park includes several thrilling rides, including Drop Out, a seven-story drop slide. If you’re a thrill seeker, this ride is for you. It gets you to the bottom of the slide in four seconds at nearly 40 miles per hour. Another slide to check out is Dr. Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror, which includes a 40-foot drop and 360-degree spins in total darkness. For families with younger children, Splash Island is designed for kids and has 12 levels and 75 activities, including five slides, water cannons, tunnels, nets and swinging bridges.
Where: 111 Raging Waters Drive, San Dimas, CA 91773

Knott’s Soak City Water Park
With three Southern California locations (Orange County, San Diego and Palm Springs), Knott’s Soak City Water Park is a convenient spot to bring your friends and family for some summer fun. If you want to take it easy and soak up the sun, grab a tube and ride through the 600-foot lazy river. For something more adventurous, race your friends down the Tidal Wave Tower, a seven-story high speed slide. For families, the Surf Rider is the perfect activity with a 60-foot tall family raft ride. If you just want to go and hang out, you can do that here, too. Rent semi-private cabanas, which include lounge chairs, tables and a waiter/waitress service.
Where: Orange County, 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, CA 90620; San Diego, 2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista, CA 91911; Palm Springs, 1500 S. Gene Autry Tail, Palm Springs, CA 92264

DryTown Water Park
Located in the city of Palmdale, DryTown is a family-friendly park that is not overcrowded. Thrilling rides include the Devil’s Punch Bowl, Rattler’s Revenge and the Wildcatter. Your heart will be racing as you go down these slides at 30 miles per hour. For the young ones, check out the kiddie area with spouts shooting up water and smaller slides that can be enjoyed by children and adults. For a relaxing experience, float on the lazy river. Remember to bring cash for snacks and drinks.
Where: 3850 East Ave. S., Palmdale, CA 93550

Hurricane Harbor
Located just north of Los Angeles in Valencia, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor allows you to enjoy the sun, splash in the water and get your heart racing. If you’re ready and willing, check out the Tornado where you and three of your friends can ascend more than seven stories and then through a tunnel, which will then hurl you into a giant funnel. The funnel spins you around its 60-foot diameter. Similar to the other parks, Hurricane Harbor features a lazy river, as well as a wave pool, which is a relaxing way to spend your day if the lines for the rides are too long. For the 21 and up crowd, stop by Pirate’s Paradise, a tropical retreat serving up cold beverages.
Where: 26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia, CA 91355

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/slopedesign

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Best Model Railroads in the Country

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Model train set

The best model train sets feature mountains, rivers and towns to scale.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/onfilm

Long after trains were introduced and helped propel the United States into the Industrial Age, model train sets appeared on the scene and appealed to children as toys. According to www.modeltrainstoday.com, the Marklin company produced the first circular (“clockwork”) train sets in the 1890s, which typically were placed under Christmas trees, and soon realized that adults might want to build more elaborate model railways based on real trains and historical locations. From there, Marklin and like-minded companies’ marketing efforts shifted to an older crowd, and people adopted building model railroads as a full-fledged hobby.

In honor of National Model Railroad Month in November, visit some of the biggest and most elaborate model trains in the country. You’ll be astounded at the attention to detail and lifelike appearance of some of the trains, people, landscaping and architecture. The best and coolest are listed below.

Northlandz
What: With a track spanning more than eight miles, Northlandz in New Jersey is the longest model railroad on the list. And it’s not just lengthy, it’s tall, too – the tallest mountain is 30 feet (or 6,000 scale feet) high. More than 100 trains run over 40-foot steel bridges set over tall canyons and rivers, through caves and unique villages and along steep ravines. Bring your binoculars to see all the details on this jaw-dropping model railroad.
Where: 495 U.S. 202, Flemington, NJ 08822

Sierra Pacific Lines
What: Operated by the Pasadena Model Railroad Club, the Sierra Pacific Lines cover about 5,000 square feet, have more than 30,000 feet of hand-laid steel rail and allow for operation of multiple 60-car-long trains, according to the Pasadena Model Railroad Club site. From end to end, it takes a train one hour to complete the whole route, which features Diablo Canyon and the Diablo Canyon Bridge, 1800s California coal country and Alhambra, with deserts, mountains and industrial parks.
Where: Pasadena Model Railroad Club, 5458 Alhambra Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90032

Chattanooga Choo Choo Model Railroad Museum
What: Begun in 1973 as a joint venture between the Chattanooga Area Model Railroad Club and the Chattanooga Choo Choo, the Model Railroad Museum is a 1:87 scale replica of the city of Chattanooga and the Cumberland Mountain country. Worth nearly $1 million, the model railroad is 174 feet long and 33 feet wide, featuring more than 3,000 feet of track, 320 structures, 150 switches, 120 locomotives, 1,000 freight cars and 80 passenger cars, according to the Model Railroad Museum site. This exhibit is one of the largest in the world open to the public.
Where: Chattanooga Choo Choo, 1400 Market St., Chattanooga, TN 37402

Carnegie Science Center’s Miniature Railroad & Village
What: As one of the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, there’s already a ton to do and see at the Carnegie Science Center. One of the highlights is the Miniature Railroad & Village, which offers a walking tour of a scaled-down version of western Pennsylvania. Created in 1920 as a local resident’s holiday display, this model railroad features hundreds of animated scenes that showcase regional life from the 1880s to the 1930s. In addition to a mini-replica of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater, the model features Forbes Field, Punxsutawney Phil at Gobbler’s Knob, Luna Park, Sharon Steel Mill and Monongahela Incline, plus more than 250,000 trees, 105 animations, 60 trucks, 14 aircraft, 85 cars and 23,000 fans in Forbes Field.
Where: 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Clemenceau Heritage Museum
What: Offered to the public for free, Clemenceau Heritage Museum’s Model Train Room shows the nine railroads in the Verde Valley at the peak of their use, when everyone mined, smelted or worked on a cattle ranch. Built to scale from old photographs of the landscape, buildings and railroads, the model train shows Jerome, Jerome Junction (now Chino Valley), Clarkdale, Hopewell Junction, Clemenceau, Old Town Cottonwood and the surrounding ranches, according to www.clemenceaumuseum.org.
Where: 1 N. Willard, Cottonwood, AZ 86326

The Great Train Story
What: With more than 30 trains running along 1,400 feet of track, the Great Train Story tells the history of the railroad journey between Chicago and Seattle and passes through the Midwest, Plains States, Rockies, Cascades, Seattle Harbor and Lake Michigan and over the Chicago River and Calumet River. according to the Museum of Science and Industry site. Plus, this model railroad is interactive – help build a mountain tunnel, raise or lower a drawbridge and load lumber on a train car.
Where: Museum of Science + Industry, 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60637

San Diego Model Railroad Museum
What: Lots of different model railroads claim to be the biggest, or one of the biggest, in the world, but there’s no denying the size of the San Diego Model Railroad Museum. At 27,000 square feet, it is at least one of the world’s largest indoor model rail road exhibits. The museum features five different layouts: a 2,700 square foot O scale layout showing the route from San Diego to Sacramento; a 1,200 square foot N scale layout based on a railway that was surveyed but never built; a 4,500 square foot HO scale layout based on the prototype San Diego and Arizona Eastern Railway; the two-level HO scale layouts showing the route from Bakersfield to Mojave in the 1950; and the three-rail O gauge layout Toy Train Gallery.
Where: Balboa Park, 1649 El Prado Suite 4, San Diego, CA 92101

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Best Brunch Spots in the U.S.

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Brunch meal

Indulge in brunch for a weekend treat.

Brunch is the ultimate weekend luxury. You can sleep in, amble up to the table at your favorite spot, down a few mimosas and take your time while you indulge in not-quite-breakfast, not-quite-lunch fare. You probably already have a favorite local spot you love, but what about if you’re visiting other cities?
In no particular order, here’s a guide to the best brunch spots in the country. Afternoon nap optional, but highly recommended.

Baby Barnaby’s
What: Green eggs (without ham) are all the rage here, which are two eggs scrambled with spinach, artichoke hearts and Monterey Jack cheese. Other menu standouts include the buttermilk waffle topped with powdered sugar, fresh berries and banana slices and the bottomless glass of orange juice. You may have to stand in line on the weekends to try them, but Baby Barnaby’s has umbrellas, fans and free water available while you wait.
Where: 602 Fairview St., Houston, TX 77006

Birchwood Kitchen
What: If you’re vegetarian, you’ll love the Croque Vert, which is grilled sourdough bread topped with grilled market vegetables, gruyere, Dijon mustard and sunny side-up eggs, and the roasted garlic polenta with mushroom ragout and poached eggs. If you’re more meat-inclined, order the equally lovely Croque Madame made with gruyere and country ham for an unexpected salty kick.
Where: 2211 W North Ave., Chicago, IL 60647

Mike & Patty’s
What: It’s all about the “Bacon and Egg, Fancy” at Mike & Patty’s. This dish brings together fried eggs, bacon (substitute tomato if you like), cheddar, red onions, avocado and house mayo for the ultimate breakfast sandwich – the secret’s in the garlicky sauce. If you’re craving something spicy to help heal that hangover, try the migas – eggs scrambled with salsa, cheese, tostadas, roasted poblanos, guacamole and refried beans – or the breakfast torta, which includes all of the migas’ ingredients plus sweet potato.
Where: 12 Church St., Boston, MA 02116

The Café at the Ritz-Carlton
What: It’ll cost you, but it’s worth it for the more than 50 selections chosen to suit all ages. The brunch here is out-of-the-ordinary with seafood on ice (crab claws, King Crab legs, oysters and Gulf shrimp), various smoked fish and blinis, antipasti, salads, carving stations and pasta. The selection pays homage to tradition with a made-to-order omelet station, Eggs Benedict, Belgian waffles and fresh fruit.
Where: 3434 Peachtree Road N.E., Atlanta, Georgia 30326

Beast
What: Don’t let the name fool you – this place is quite relaxing and unbelievably luxurious. The four-course brunch menu is by reservation only, and it constantly changes. Indulge in dishes like rich short rib, wild onion and morel hash with asparagus, turnips, green garlic, poached farm eggs and hollandaise, a cheese course and yes, even brunch dessert. The menu is based on ingredients available at the market the day before, so you can be sure they’re mostly local and all fresh.
Where: 5425 NE 30th Ave., Portland, OR 97211

Rioja
What: Three words: Goat cheese biscuits. At Rioja, order the Rioja Benedict – bacon, spinach, tomato, poached eggs and parmesan sauce – served on a goat cheese biscuit, the pulled pork croquette, hand-made mozzarella wrapped in smoked prosciutto, white miso soup with steamed mussels or artichoke tortelloni. Choices for a brunch buzz include a chocolate and coffee liqueur espresso, grapefruit granita, and the usual mimosa and Bloody Mary suspects, though the house-made limoncello and gin drink is worth a second look.
Where: 1431 Larimer St., Denver, CO 80202

The Village Bakery and Cafe
What: Stop here for brunch if you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere, where you can sit at the wrought-iron tables on the patio and sip coffee for a few hours while people-watching. Since it’s a bakery primarily, its specialties are on the baked-goods side, such as the lemon rosemary almond olive oil cake, house made granola and the donut muffin. For a protein boost, try the grilled polenta cake with parmesan, scrambled eggs, spinach, tomato and applewood smoked bacon.
Where: 3119 Los Feliz Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90039

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/edoneil

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Best Pizza in the U.S.

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Cheesy pizza

Each American eats 46 slices of pizza per year. Discover where the best places in the U.S. to grab a slice are.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/ShyMan

Hot, cheesy, gooey and satisfying, pizza is the ultimate comfort food, even though pizza patrons are divided on which style is the best. Whether you like New York-style, deep-dish, Neapolitan, thick or thin crust, you don’t have to visit Italy to find amazing pizza. In fact, no matter where you are in the U.S., you’re probably close to one of the best places to down a slice (or a whole pie) of crispy, chewy, delicious pizza. See below for our picks for the best pizza in the U.S.

Antico Pizza
Why: Inspired by a visit to the owner’s grandmother’s native village just outside of Naples, Antico Pizza features true Neapolitan pizza. Antico Pizza is crafted from ingredients imported from Napoli and Campania, such as buffalo mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes and Italian extra virgin olive oil. The pizza, which comes in one size, is cooked at 900 degrees in stone ovens, which leave the crust with the perfect amount of char. Favorites include the San Gennaro, with roasted red peppers, cipollini onions and sausage; the Margherita, the classic combination of tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, basil and garlic; and the spicy Diavola, with pepperoni, spicy red peppers and mozzarella.
Where: 1093 Hemphill Ave. NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

Rosario’s Deli
Why: Both an Italian market and deli, Rosario’s has pizza by the slice. Lines may be long, but they’re worth it for the handmade, house-made mozzarella and salami. Owner Rosario often claims that the pizza is so good because he makes what he likes to eat, and it shows. Order anything with sausage, salami, prosciutto and/or roasted red peppers, as they make them all in the back of the store. Take home some of the ingredients used in the pizza from the market, and if you have any questions about anything Italian food-related, ask Rosario – he’s an expert.
Where: 2255 31st St., Astoria, NY 11105

De Lorenzo’s Tomato Pies
Why: Pizza joints are a dime a dozen in New Jersey, but De Lorenzo’s has a welcoming, family feel, in addition to fantastic pizzas. Open only Thursday through Sunday, De Lorenzo’s Italian-style thin crust and BYOB policy has patrons lining up outside the door. Since the crust is thin, the toppings aren’t heavy or excessive; rather, the pizza shines in its simple, fresh ingredients. Try the sausage, pepper and onion combination, or for something different, try the clam pie, either white or red (though the red is the local favorite of the two).
Where: 530 Hudson St., Trenton, NJ 08611

Palermo Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria
Why: Could it be that the best pizza in Chicago isn’t deep-dish? The answer is yes and at Palermo Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria. Thin-crust pies rule at Palermo, and the secret’s in the slightly sweet sauce. Go for the in-house made sausage and mushroom pizza – and like the other options, it will be piled high with melted cheese.  If you’re from out of town and want to take some home, order your favorite pizza half-baked and freeze it. Palermo’s also serves deep-dish, Chicago-style pizzas (called “stuffed pies” here), though the thin crust receives higher accolades.
Where: 3751 W. 63rd St., Chicago, IL 60629

Kylie’s Chicago Pizza
Why: Chicago-style pizza in Seattle? Believe it. Kylie’s piles the toppings high but evenly on the crunchy-chewy crust, and then tops that with a mound of tomato sauce. Order the 63 Bacon, with sausage, bacon, onions and jalapenos, or the Carnivore, with pepperoni, sausage, ham, bacon and chicken. If you’re vegetarian-inclined, the Mediterranean is full of flavor with artichoke hearts, red bell peppers, green olives, onions and feta.
Where: 3601 Fremont Ave. N, Seattle, WA 98103

9th Street Pizza
Why: Find New York-style pizza at this West Coast location that serves up hand-tossed dough-turned-crisp, thin, slightly chewy crust. Go traditional here and order the plain cheese, garlic-tomato-basil with cheese or pepperoni – the idea is not to pile the toppings too high so you can master the perfect New York-style fold. The slices are big, floppy and cheap here, served on parchment paper set on top of a paper plate, so if you’re a native New Yorker, 9th Street Pizza may feel like home.
Where: 231 E 9th St., Los Angeles, CA 90015

Little Deli and Pizzeria
Why: Serving up super-fresh ingredients, Little Deli and Pizzeria rules for New Jersey-style pizza in Austin. The crust is traditional hand-tossed, which turns into crispy, ever-so-slightly charred air pockets when baked on two-inch stone hearths. Order the pepperoni and cheese if you’re feeling nostalgic for the New Jersey days of the 1960s, and if you’re feeling adventurous, go for the white pizza, loaded with spinach, artichokes, roasted garlic, olive oil, mozzarella and ricotta, or the Bacon Blue pie – which needs no explanation. Little Deli is pet-friendly and has a BYOB policy.
Where: 7101-A Woodrow Ave., Suite K, Austin, TX 78757

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Top 6 Cities to Reinvent Yourself

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woman climbing rock

Known for its residents' active lifestyle, Boulder, Colo., is a great place to reinvent your fitness routine.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/epicurean

From bad breakups to a dead-end job market or even just a change of lifestyle, the reasons that people have for wanting to ditch their “old life” and start a new one are endless. Whether you just graduated college and are looking to begin a career or you just want a fresh start in a new town, here are some great cities that are conducive to the art of self-reinvention that will fit your next stage of life.

Best City for Single Men
New York
If you have ever complained that there are no single women to date in your town, maybe you should consider moving to New York.  According to a recent singles map of the United States from the Boston Globe, the best cities for single men are large metro areas located on the East Coast and Midwest. The best city for single men is New York City, where single women outnumber single men by more than 210,000.

Best City for Single Women
Los Angeles
Ladies, if you are tired of dating hand-me-down men in a market ruled by women, move west where the odds are stacked in your favor of finding “Mr. Right.” According to the latest data by the US Census Bureau, Los Angeles has 90,000 more single men than women. If you are looking to reinvent your love life, you can certainly reposition yourself in Los Angeles as a hot commodity.

Best City for Starting a Family
Virginia Beach, Va.
Perhaps you are looking to reinvent your life with a family in mind. In this case, a low crime rate, good schools, many parks and fun activities are key attractions. According to US News and World Report, Virginia Beach is just the place you are looking for. The city has the most playgrounds of any city in the United States and has 14 miles of free beaches to let your kids run wild. Your kids can explore an impressive ecosystem of species in the 9,000-acre Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which includes bald eagles and loggerhead sea turtles.

Best City for Starting a Career
Houston
According to Forbes Magazine, Houston is among the nation’s best cities to begin a career. Home to some of America’s strongest big and small companies, Houston attracts the country’s most talented professionals in the nation. Yahoo Hot Jobs ranks Houston as a top job city because it is considered a leader in the oil and gas industry, and a major health services center. Not only is Houston a good city to reinvent yourself for a new career, but it is also a good place to shop, eat out and enjoy a quality lifestyle that is for the most part, affordable.

Best City for Staying Active and Healthy
Boulder, Colo.
If you are turning over a new leaf and want to reinvent yourself as a health nut, consider moving to Boulder for maintaining a happy and healthy lifestyle. According to a recent Gallup poll of more than 353,000 Americans, Boulder ranks as the as the “happiest and healthiest” city in America. Western cities have long been ranked as healthy in terms of active adults and healthy lifestyle, but Boulder seems to take the cake this year based on key factors such as health status, nutrition and exercise, mental health and life balance.

Best City for Retiring
Las Cruces, N.M.
Retirement is the perfect opportunity to reinvent yourself. Take your hard-earned savings and start a new life to enjoy your golden years. Located in balmy southern New Mexico, Las Cruces is the perfect town to do just that. Who says retirement has to be boring? Many retirees consider this college town the perfect blend of activity and leisure. This city is for active adults who like living in a dry climate with very picturesque scenery. Plus, affordable housing means you can stretch your retirement dollars for years to come.  There are plenty of cultural events to keep you busy and if you are interested in working during your retirement years, you can always pick up a part-time job.

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Where to Find Nice, Cheap Furniture in Los Angeles

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Modern living room

Find nice furniture to fit your budget when you're ready to outfit your L.A. home.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/phototropic

While the cost of living may be pricey in the land of Hollywood dreams, great furniture doesn’t have to be. In fact, Los Angeles boasts several unique and affordable stores, where you can find everything from a bed to lighting to bathroom décor. Check out the following places, located all around the city, for a varied and inexpensive selection of furniture sure to accommodate any design or space need.

Revival Furniture – Lincoln Heights
What: Revival is owned by two sisters and features refurbished pieces of furniture. The store is small, but the turnover is very high, with the selection changing weekly. So if you see something you love, grab it while you can. Prices are moderate to cheap, and customers are urged to visit on a biweekly-to-monthly basis to see the most selection. Additionally, Revival is full of art, knick-knacks and a dollar basket filled with vintage jewelry.
Where: 181 N Avenue 21, Los Angeles, CA 90031

The Sofa Company – Pasadena
What: With a motto of, “You design it, we built it,” The Sofa Company is indeed the best place to go for your personalized and custom-made sofa. After browsing the showroom, you pick from more than 75 styles, going over frames, wood bases, features and measurements. Everything is customizable, and you can combine styles or features from any of the available pieces. Then, you choose a fabric from the equally large selection, and in four to six weeks, you’re specially-built furniture is delivered. If you’re at a total loss for where to start, the company also offers home consultations, and in addition to sofas, the company sells lounge chairs, love seats, accent chairs, dining chairs, bed frames and coffee tables. Although almost all selections are affordable, you can save even more money by purchasing one of the floor samples or a closeout fabric.
Where: 100 W Green Street, Pasadena, CA 91105

Sweet Dream – Koreatown
What: The showroom may be small, but the quality therein is unparalleled, and customers are encouraged to explore and order from their extensive catalog. In addition to a wide selection of contemporary beds, dining tables and chairs and furniture sets, Sweet Dream also carries rugs, accent pieces, fabric and accessories. The store will usually match the lowest price of another store, and free delivery and assembly are available.
Where: 909 S Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90006

Loft Appeal – Downtown
What: As its name indicates, Loft Appeal caters to the needs of loft residents and specializes in getting the most out of a small space. Just some of the items available include lamps, curtains, mugs, bookcase, canvas prints, futons, Murphy beds, dining sets, bar tables and chairs, stools, cocktail tables, sofas, entertainment centers, bedding, vases, bedroom sets, reclining chairs and outdoor seating. The store offers a range of prices on the pieces in its eclectic collection, and discounts may be available on floor models. If you feel overwhelmed with the task of decorating your rental loft or condo, the store even offers in-house design consultations.
Where: 903 S Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015

PJs Sleep Company – Mid-City West, West Hollywood
What: If you’re looking for an easy, straight-forward and comfortable bed-purchasing experience, PJs is your place. In addition to excellent customer service not curbed by commissions or haggling, the associates at PJs offer you all the information and patience necessary to find the perfect bed to suit your sleeping needs. You can also purchase furniture to compliment your bed, and best of all, immediate delivery is available for all items.
Where: 415 N Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90048

Spitfire Interiors – Whittier
What: Spitfire lives up to its name with furniture and accessories reflecting vintage rock and roll, punk and gothic styles. The store features local artists’ work and specializes in unique, edgy pieces. Along with dressers, paintings and bathroom décor, you can find pinstriped furniture, gag gifts and purses in this out-of-the-box store located just outside L.A.
Where: 12909 Philadelphia Street, Whittier, CA 90601

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