Maria’s Thursday Three: "Runway," Loteria and the Levitt

1. Holla Atcha Boy: “Project Runway” is back, and it’s been hard for me and Mike to pick a favorite just yet, but I’ve been impressed with what Terri‘s been doing so far. Meanwhile, thanks to Mike’s job, we just got a sneak peak of the first episode of “Top Design.” It’s gonna be good! Several designers who are already established in their own right, with some colorful personalities mixed in. Great casting, while Todd Oldham takes a back seat to become a mentor for the contestants (a la Tim Gunn) and India Hicks has joined as the new host. Plus, from what I can tell, future episodes feature past “Project Runway” contestants and Jeff Lewis.

2. Loteria Grill in Hollywood: We checked out the new space in Hollywood last weekend, and I love it. Going to the Farmer’s Market location always stressed me out, having to line up, wait for the food and score a place to sit. There’s something great about the wide-open space, the high ceilings, the attentive waiters, the jalapeño margaritas and the oversized Mexican folk art cards (all while Hollywood walks by) that make me want to come back to this place. The food seems to have the same price as the Farmer’s Market location, and the drinks are potent but expensive. (See photo gallery in the post below.)

3. Summer Concerts at The Levitt Pavillion: Wednesday nights you can find TKFKABT and I at the Levitt Pavillion with a picnic and some friends having fun on Children’s Night. It can get really crowded, but you can still score a decent spot if you get there before 6:30 pm. Plop down a blanket and enjoy the night. This week, the Kid grooved out to the music as acrobats performed some pretty cool stunts, as part of a circus-themed show. The concerts/events are always free at the Levitt.

Hot.

Yes, it’s crazy ass hot outside. Thankfully, the heat is supposed to subside by mid-week, with temps back to normal by then. Whew.

In the meantime, make a watermelon margarita. FromDrinksMixer.com:

16 oz seeded, blended watermelons
1/2 lime
6 oz tequila
3 oz triple sec
1 tbsp sugar

Cut up a watermelon, removing seeds. Liquify in a blender until you have about 16 oz. Add remaining ingredients, top with ice and blend until smooth. Taste and add sugar if watermelon is not sweet enough. Serve in a margarita glass with a sugar-coated rim.

Happy Labor Day!