It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood...
Skate the Coast
FORMATION OF ART
Crew sets up props for a Berkley anniversary party at the Casta Del Mar Hotel on Friday, October 16, 2009.
FREEZE FRAME
THE LOBSTER
The Lobster Restaurant - Images by fabian lewkowicz
Locals from decades past remember 'The Lobster' as a tiny shack that turned out 120 variations of seafood treats. Step back to the past and live the memories...
The original "The Lobster" opened in 1925, but it was the dreams of a dishwasher named Mateo Castillo that worked his way up to owner in 1950, that established "The Lobster" as the 'Seafood Shack' so sought popular through the 50's, 60's and 70's.
A family owned and operated venue, the modest structure only belied the strong attraction of location and real seafood. Their success was service and good food. A quality that holds true today. Rose Freeman purchased the property in the 80's. In the mid 80's, The Lobster closed its doors, leaving the property vacant for a decade.
"The Lobster" has long been an unofficial historical landmark, nearly as recognizable as the Santa Monica Pier sign. The original restaurant was built in 1923, and remained open until 1985. The 900 square foot seafood market style restaurant was very popular with the local Santa Monica residents and Pier visitors. A constant out the door was a tribute to it's popularity. The restaurant had a menu that had over 60 fresh seafood items. The seating capacity was only 30 seats, most of which were countertop seating around the outside perimeter.
The menu is classic American Seafood featuring whole live Maine lobsters. Guests can sit at any seat in the restaurant or bar area and enjoy 180 degree views of the spectacular Pacific Ocean, accented by it's breathtaking sunsets, even celebrate the sea spun sunset phenomena called the 'Green Flash'. The terrace provides fresh coastal air for those who love to dine outdoors. At night, "The Lobster" enjoys the Santa Monica Pier aglow at it's feet. "The Lobster" re-opened with wonderful reviews. Now a years later, "The Lobster" has proved to be a memorable location to enjoy.
"The Lobster" stands as a tribute to the family that built its reputation. The remaining original structure within the foundation and walls of the main entrance and footprint still stand at the corner of Ocean Ave. and the Pier. "Established in 1923", recessed in the corner stone, greets guests in the spirit and heritage that only belongs to "The Lobster".
ALL YOU CAN CARRY PUMPKIN PATCH
For a mere $5 (Yes that’s FIVE DOLLARS – Cash only) you can wade into the huge market pumpkin patch and walk away with as many pumpkins as you can carry down a 25-foot runway. Balance them on your head, in your arms or dangle them from your teeth (at your own risk). Who has more fun – onlookers or participants – it’s hard to tell, but everyone is sure to have a wonderful time at the patch, which features the most beautiful, round, bright orange, California grown pumpkins you can find. Costumes welcome!!! Wednesday, October 28 at the Downtown Farmers Market on Arizona Ave. and Second St.
WHISKY LIVE
(1) Vineenzo Marinella (left) and Michel Dozois mix drinks in the Iron Bartender challenge during Whisky Live at the Santa Monica Civic on Tuesday, October 20, 2009. (2) Vineenzo Marinella won the Iron Bartender challenge. (3) Lesley Balla, Merrill Shindler and Anthony Dias-Blue judge the Iron Bartender challenge during Whisky Live at the Santa Monica Civic. (4) (Left to right) Mary Dehoyos , Lynne Thomas and Megan Sheehy sample spirits during Whisky Live. (5) Diana Yanuarin from Taylor Cigar lounge lights David J. Castello's Padron 1926 Anniversary cigar during Whisky Live at the Santa Monica Civic on Tuesday, October 20, 2009. Whisky Live is the world's premier whisky tasting and sampling show.
BOLLYWOOD
Nisha Ali (right) from Apt. E Productions gives a free Bollywood dance lesson to Maria Isabel, 31, while filming a music video at the Third Street Promenade on Sunday, October 11, 2009.
KING OF THE PARTY
(1,2) CNN talk show host Larry and Shawn King's children present her with a one-of-a-kind custom doll made in her image to recognize her dedication to the hospital. during the 10th Annual 'Mattel Party on the Pier' at Pacific Park on Sunday, October 18, 2009. (3,4) Larry King and his wife Shawn are honored during the 10th Annual 'Mattel Party on the Pier.' (5,6) Shawn King sings a song she wrote for her husband Larry, "For the Long Run" during the party. (7) Abby, 12, pets Bender, 3, a Chocolate Labrador Retriever hospital therapy dog during the party. (8) Barbie visits Svea Peterson, 5, during the 10th Annual 'Mattel Party on the Pier' at Pacific Park on Sunday, October 18, 2009.