Spring is here! 2014 is flying by and we have been keeping busy eating and drinking our way through the winter (of course, being based on the West Coast, we...
As a fan of generally all things Italian, I was recently introduced to a new craft beer from Italy called Via dei Birrai 32 (Beer 32). Coming from Treviso, Italy, located in the Veneto region, Beer 32 is an artisan microbrewery producing Belgian-style ales. And, in typical Italian style, from the logo, to the packaging and marketing materials, Beer 32 is eye-catching and will stand out on any shelf. And, Beer 32 comes in 750ml bottles, which is equivalent to a pint and a half. Easy for one person to enjoy or for two people to share.
Where does the name come from? The name 32 has multiple meanings. 32 is the number of the class for beer according to the Nice international classification, which indicates and categorizes products and services. 32 is also the address of the brewery. And, 32 is the age of the 4 founders when they started the brewery more than a decade ago.
Through word of mouth, I was told about this new wine bar located in the "Magnolia Park" neighborhood in Burbank. I was not aware of this neighborhood, located at Hollywood Way and Magnolia Avenue, other than the way to the Burbank airport. But, I was pleasantly surprised to find this strip of small businesses and restaurants that have contributed to the resurgence of the area.
Luna Vine Wine Bar opened at the end of January, promoted by nothing more than word of mouth. Starting by the door and ending in an area with table and chairs, the bar fills up most of the length of the long, narrow space. The look is simple and sleek, with exposed rope and wire lighting, and paintings (mostly of elephants) along the opposing wall.