Carolyn J.

Academy 6 Theaters

When I was a kid, my dad took a second job in a movie theatre. I loved going to work with him, running up and down the aisles between shows, and hiding in the velvet curtains. The Academy 6 reminds me of those days. One gets a great movie, often independant or foreign films, at a discount price without all the noise at a traditional theatre. There are no annoying ads before the show or crummy music. It is always clean, and the popcorn actually tastes like popcorn.

PROS: Good prices, no crowds, no annoying advertising
CONS: small staff, ticket person usually sells the snacks

Russell's

I love a good basic breakfast. Ata Russels one can get some great foods in a lovely location, served by very wonderful servers! The prices are very reasonable and even if they weren't, I don't mind paying for good food and service. They even have pepper and salt mills on the table, which is what I use at home!!

PROS: Great Everything!
CONS:

Glendale Costumes

We used Glendale Costumes to rent some costumes for our wedding. They were able to alter my costume on the spot so that it fit perfectly. We had a non-themed costume wedding meaning guests could wear whatever they felt like. We had such a great time and many of the guests used Glendale Costumes!

PROS: Easy access to 134. Cool costumes. Custom fitting available.
CONS:

Mucho Mas

The decor is cheezy. I think it used to be a pizza joint, it still has a mural of a fat guy removing a pizza from an oven, and those glass grape light fixtures that grandma used to have on her coffee table in the 70's.

However.... they have the absolutely best salsa I've ever had. Not that fake crap from Chevy's, or watery stuff from el torrito. Their salsa has the best flavor and perfect spicyness imaginable. The food is always great, and served in a timely manner. The Hornito Margarita is really good!

PROS: best salsa ever!
CONS: divey location

El Cid Show Restaurant

The food here is great, but it also includes a great flamenco show. The dancers are top notch and they even have a male flamenco. The musicians are incredible and remind me of Gipsy Kings.

The venue is in a classic old theatre and it stands on a hill. Getting down the hill can feel slightly treacherous. Don't get yourself too drunk! (smile)

PROS: Great Food, Great show!
CONS: Dangerous hillside entry

Del Mar Auto Svc

We have taken our cars to Del Mar and are very satisfied. They are fair and get the work done fast. It's so difficult to find a good mechanic who won't rip you off, but Hutch at Del Mar is great!!

PROS: Fast, fair, and good work
CONS: can't really think of any

La Luna Negra

I enjoy La Luna Negra because it offers a bit of everything one want's in an evening out. It's very cool location with great vibrant color. The food is excellent, my favorite is actually their escargo appetizer. They have fun entertainment with live flamenco dancers and musicians. The entertainment is not as top notch as El Cid, but the location makes up for it.

PROS: Location and excellent food!
CONS: slightly less on the dancers, but only slightly

Porto's Bakery

I love portos! I don't go there alot, because I might get too fat, however, they have great food, and baked goods. I love the light frosting and fresh fruit they use in some of their cakes. It can get crowded however. Best to order cakes in advance, just in case. I've been there when the lines are out the door!

PROS: Excellent Quality food!!
CONS: Can get overcrowded and confusing.

Akkbar

Watch out for the spice ratings!! Akkbar is a lovely space to eat with rich dark colored decor and cool light fixtures. The portions are not big, but the food is tasty. I once ordered something 'spicy' and my friend and I couldn't even finish it. We just kept drinking the wine... hoping to numb our tastebuds! Ha... it was quite funny. So, definitely come here, but don't get the food too spicy. They don't mess around!

PROS: Beautiful place to dine, excellent food
CONS: Sometimes hard to get in, small portions

All India Cafe

This space has good food, but not the prettiest location. The service does tend to be slow, but if you're dining and not in a rush it can be an enjoyable meal to share with friends. It is close to Colorado so if one wants to cruise around and go shopping it's in a great location for that.

PROS: Good Food
CONS: Not so stylish, slow service