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off the beaten path

L.A.’S BURGERS: BIG JO’S

Saturday, August 11th, 2007

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The web designer at my office is obsessed with Big Jo’s.  It’s basically a large, converted garage at Broadway Ave. and 20th in Santa Monica, a hop and skip from business row on Colorado.  I was curious what the hooplah was about so I went with him and ordered exactly what he ordered (except I got the diet version of his Pepsi).  It was the best chili cheese burger and fries I have ever had. 

The thick, wavy cut fries come in their own bag so you can take the special Big Jo’s seasoning salt and shake it up with the fries.  It was so delicious it instantly transported me to the days at Wild Waves Water Park in Federal Way, Washington where my grandmother would take me during the summers.   Between water slides and the wave pool I’d nosh on seasoned fries and caramel apples and listen to the weird sounds my jaw would make when I’d chew with my ears clogged with water.

The chili cheese burgers at Big Jo’s were exactly what I imagine a chili cheese burger should be: big flavor and a whole lot of mess!  I had basically wolfed down the last bite before I even realized I was done, but not before I had gone through about six napkins from the chili getting all over my hands and face.  

After lunch I stumbled back to the office in a chili cheesy food daze.  It’ll be hard to spend my lunch hour at Quiznos now that I’ve discovered Big Jo’s.   

THE GRASSHOPPER

Wednesday, July 25th, 2007

The Grasshopper is the bar version of a run away hair — it disgusts and mesmerizes.  From the ‘absolutely no drugs allowed’ sign next to the cash register to the skeevy bathrooms, The ‘Hopper is not for the faint of heart.  For those who appreciate a good dive bar, however, this little hideout is an absolute treasure.  The owner is a very generous Hispanic gentleman who will frequently treat a group of newcomers to a free round of beers.  There’s plenty of room to sit, a decent jukebox and a pool table available for those brave enough to mix it up with the locals.  If you’re lucky, the fortune teller lady may be around to tell you her life story, and if she’s not too drunk she may even tell you your fortune. 

 The Grasshopper, 5100 Fountain Ave, Hollywood. 

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