Leo & Lily

photo courtesy of mama's gotta bake

Who are Leo & Lily?  Frankly, it does not matter.  What is more important is that they know how to serve up a delicious brunch.  Consider enjoying a lazy Saturday (or Sunday) with them.

Regular cup of coffee with a mini biscotti -- very European.

Egg White Veggie Frittata -- zucchini, squash, roasted pepper, portobello mushroom, broccolini, topped with avocado and whipped goat cheese -- $11.25

Frittata d'America -- 3 organic eggs, garlic, oven-dried tomato, spinach, red onion, turkey bacon, parsley, cheddar cheese -- $11.25

B.L.T.A.E on a C -- bacon, lettuce, tomato, avocado, fried egg on a croissant with potatoes -- $10.95

At peak times, the wait may be long, which is a bummer since they don't take reservations.  Still, if you have the patience to stick around and the desire to keep your hunger at bay, you won't be disappointed in both the food and service.  This is a breakfast/ brunch gem of the Valley!






cuisine: American with Mediterranean flavors
location: Woodland Hills, CA
hours: M-Fri: 7:30am-9pm; Sat-Sun: 8am-9pm
websites: { L&L | yelp | facebook | twitter }
parking: Valet or Street
attire: Casual
avg. price: $10-$15 (for breakfast or lunch)
notes: Outdoor patio seating available; can accommodate big groups (call ahead); best for breakfast/ brunch.

Yang Chow

On plate: Slippery Shrimp; Slippery Chicken; Szechuan Beef w/ Broccoli; Sauteed Green Beans w/ Chicken; Mixed Veggies; steamed white rice

"Yang Chow's. Have you been to Yang Chow's? You gotta go to Yang Chow's."
Three months ago, I had never even heard of the restaurant, but after hearing some rave reviews from some reliable sources, I knew I had to check it out.

Today was finally Yang Chow Day. I left the ordering to the regulars who were clearly prepared with a list of go-to dishes. In short, I was not disappointed.

I'm not quite sure what is in the Slippery Shrimp (or why it's even called that), but the crunch of the batter + the sweet and tangy sauce really accentuates the flavor of the shrimp (in a good way). Order it and see for yourself! It's a lot more appetizing than it sounds.

Big portions (great for family-style dining); food isn't not too greasy or salty; good Chinese food not in SGV!



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cuisine: Chinese

location: Canoga Park, Pasadena, Chinatown
hours: Sun-Th: 11:30am - 9:45pm; Fri-Sat: 11:30am - 10:45pm

website: { YC | yelp }
good for: L, D
attire: Casual
parking: street or lot, depending on location

note: Amex accepted; reservations only made by phone; Now if only they delivered...

The Stand (Woodland Hills)

top: Spicy Polish Dog (classic spicy pork topped w/ grilled onions, diced tomatoes, and Dijon mustard)

bottom: ABC Burger (avocado, bacon cheddar w/ ample lettuce and ranch dressing)

Today, in celebration of S' last day, the externs and I ventured to The Stand, a place that's been recommended to me several times now. Also, S. Korea advanced to the "sweet 16" of the World Cup Series! Needless to say, it was not a disappointing lunch all around (minus the minor mistake to S' order, but s'all good).

The Stand is your typical to-go friendly joint: order at the counter; grab your order number, nosh on some pickle slices, and wait for the yummy food to arrive.  The menu includes hot dogs, burgers, "standwiches," and soups & salads, but they're best known for their dogs and burgs. Meat up!


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cuisine: Deli-style
location: Woodland Hills, CA (multiple locations)
website: { menu }
good for: L, D
cost: $6- $12