Just Opened: Cake Monkey’s First Brick and Mortar

by jolie loebDecember 27, 2015

For years we’ve chased these beauties from café to café, delighting in the retro revelry that Cake Monkey bakes up. The once passé pop tarts and hum drum Ho-Ho’s have turned into masterpieces that rival wine and cheese in the affections of adults, while still keeping plenty of kid-appeal with sweet simplicity. There’s no business like monkey business, and cakes are finally baking in their first brick and mortar in Mid-City, so you can find them all day, any day.

At the Intersect of Memory Lane and Candy Cane Lane
That’s where you’ll find the brand new Cake Monkey. Ok, it’s actually on Beverly Boulevard, right across from CBS Studios. Easy to miss if not for its trademark pop of pink, it’s a pint sized storefront, aptly housing their diminutive delights: pies to tarts, cookies to cakewiches and knee bending breakfast pastries. With the little chocolaty swirl cherry topping a bubble gum pink blink of a building—it looks like a teensy little dollhouse smack dab in the middle of the city street.

So Many Options, Such Little Monkeys
Sized just right, since resistance is impossible. With 3” cakes being their claim to baked good fame, these miniature marvels pack a whole lotta luscious per bite. And it’s so wonderful to waste not, especially with littles in tow, whose eyes are inevitably bigger than their tummies. Cake Monkey bakes right on point for little people, which is key, because you’ll want to try one of everything. Make that two.

But, the Holidays are a Wonderful Time to Bake
In theory. In reality it’s as you load the kids into the car that you realize you were supposed to bring a box of something to the class holiday party. And that gifts for the principal and office staff never even entered your mind, until right this second. Cake Monkey to the rescue. Seasonal swoons to the tune of Peppermint Cakewiches (two slices of chocolate cake sandwiching pink mint buttercream and crushed candy canes all dunked in smothering of bittersweet chocolate) or your pink princesses personal pick: Pink Peppermint Cake. It’s pink and pepperminted on the outside, chocolate brown butter cake on the inside, and decked in holiday pearly best. Vanilla Gorilla, Almond Orangutan, go bananas. They’re all available in multiple sizes, and perfect for all occasions (including scarfed in secret in the car after the kids have reached their destination).

Eat and Run
Designed for take-out, don’t plan on sticking around. With two barstools at the window, they made just enough room for all the important stuff, but not quite enough to linger and enjoy it. Plan on perusing or calling ahead, but know it’s standing or (bouncing, once the kids get a gander at the bakery case) room only in there. Maybe leave the double strollers at home.

Plan for Parking Challenges
Located right across from CBS and near the Grove, parking comes at a premium. There’s metered parking on Beverly, but you’ll probably have better luck checking residential streets to the immediate north.

Order Up
Take note moms and dads. One visit and your little monkeys will likely identify their next birthday cake. Cake Monkey’s ready; the writing is quite literally on the wall. Magic bars to pop pies, cakewiches to rolls in the hay, they are party favor perfection and a special occasion safety net. And finally with a flagship to frequent.

Cake Monkey Bakery
7807 Beverly Boulevard
Mid-City LA
323-932-1142
Online: cakemonkey.com

If you’ve ever eaten the cakewich, you know why it’s so exciting that Cake Monkey found a permanent home. What’s your favorite retro treat in town? (The Bouchon TKO—Thomas Keller Oreo—is a close second, we humbly suggest…)

—written and photographed by Jolie Loeb

Top 10 Free (or Cheap) Things to do in the Bay Area with Kids Under 5

by Kate LowethJune 18, 2015

Want to plan a summer of fun for the little people in your life? Good news! An over-the-top summer doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg or take tons of prep work. With this list of our ten favorite things to do with kids under 5, we prove the old axiom that the best things in life FREE (or at least very cheap).

1. Get Your Hike on at Mori Point

Get out of the city and into the fresh air at Mori Point! Located just south of San Francisco in the town of Pacifica, Mori Point offers hiking trails for all ages and abilities. If you park on Mori Point Road near the Moose Lodge, you can follow a flat trail to a wooden boardwalk that takes you all the way to the ocean (perfect for that jogging stroller). More adventurous hikers can hike a windy path or a large wooden staircase up to the top to see the beautiful vista. Depending on the time of year, you may be able to see migrating whales as they swim past. Hiking got you hungry? Check out nearby Gorilla Barbecue (located in an awesome orange train car) where the kids meals are generously-sized and delicious.

Mori Point Rd.
Pacifica, Ca
Online: parksconservancy.org

Photo: Kate Loweth

5 Habits to Save their Habitat

by Erin FeherMay 6, 2015

You think you’re having a rough day? The blue-throated macaw can’t find a safe place to nest due to habitat destruction, and at last count, there were only about 500 total birds left on the planet. Sadly, this particular macaw is just one of 1440 creatures currently on the endangered species list. But it’s not all doom and gloom. Thanks to conservation efforts, many formerly endangered populations have made robust recoveries, and you can help by adding these five easy habits to your routine. Do it for the macaws!

1. Buy Sustainable Products and RECYCLE!
Buy recycled paper, sustainable products like bamboo and Forest Stewardship Council wood products to protect forest species. Never buy furniture made from wood from rainforests. Recycle your cell phones, because a mineral used in cell phones and other electronics is mined in gorilla habitat. Minimize your use of palm oil because forests where tigers live are being cut down to plant palm plantations.

2. Fill the Yard with Native Plants
Native plants provide food and shelter for native wildlife. Attracting native insects like bees and butterflies can help pollinate your plants. The spread of non-native species has greatly impacted native populations around the world. Invasive species compete with native species for resources and habitat. They can even prey on native species directly, forcing native species towards extinction. For more information about native plants, visit http://www.plantsocieties.org.

3. Avoid Herbicides and Pesticides
They may keep yards looking nice but they are in fact hazardous pollutants that affect wildlife at many levels. Many herbicides and pesticides take a long time to degrade and build up in the soils or throughout the food chain. Predators such as hawks, owls and coyotes can be harmed if they eat poisoned animals. Some groups of animals such as amphibians are particularly vulnerable to these chemical pollutants and suffer greatly as a result of the high levels of herbicides and pesticides in their habitat. For alternatives to pesticides, visit beyondpesticides.org.

4. Make your home wildlife friendly
Secure garbage in shelters or cans with locking lids, feed pets indoors and lock pet doors at night to avoid attracting wild animals into your home. Reduce your use of water in your home and garden so that animals that live in or near water can have a better chance of survival. Disinfect bird baths often to avoid disease transmission. Place decals on windows to deter bird collisions. Millions of birds die every year because of collisions with windows. You can help reduce the number of collisions simply by placing decals on the windows in your home and office. For more information on what you can do, check out these tips from the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

5. Visit a national wildlife refuge, park or other open space
Yep, just going to say hi to the animals can help! These protected lands provide habitat to many native wildlife, birds, fish and plants. Scientists tell us the best way to protect endangered species is to protect the places where they live. Get involved by volunteering at your local nature center or wildlife refuge. Go wildlife or bird watching in nearby parks. Wildlife related recreation creates millions of jobs and supports local businesses. To find a wildlife refuge near you, visit www.fws.gov/refuges/ To find a park near you, visit http://www.nps.gov To find a zoo near you, visit www.aza.org

Want to know more? See even more ways that you can help endangered species at endangered.org

–Erin Feher

Insider’s Guide to San Diego Attractions Without the Crowds

by Brooke HausmanFebruary 4, 2015

People, people, everywhere! Have you ever wanted to go somewhere, but decided not to because you thought it would be too crowded? Living in a large city means constantly competing with others to participate. And when you have little kids with you, it makes that competition a bit more challenging. By planning ahead and using these insider tips, you can still enjoy all San Diego has to offer with fewer crowds to battle.

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is one of the most kid-friendly and fun ways to spend your days. Kids love watching the new baby gorilla, exploring the Discovery Playground in Discovery Outpost, and especially riding the Skyfari ride across the park.To steer clear of the crowds, arrive when the Zoo opens at 9 a.m. and leave the weekends and special events to tourists. October is a crowded month since admission is free for kids ages 3-11. We suggest sitting out that month, and enjoying less-crowded times like January and back-to-school September. And if your kiddo is at a "wearable" age, go for it and avoid maneuvering a stroller through the park.

2920 Zoo Dr.
San Diego, Ca 92101
619-231-1515
online: zoo.sandiegozoo.org

What are some ways you and your family avoid the crowds? Tell us your insider tips in the comments below!

— Brooke Hausman

Photography by Brooke Hausman unless otherwise noted

The California Academy of Sciences: Free and Fabulous

by rttaliapageJanuary 10, 2015

We don’t have to tell you that living within SF’s city limits has it’s perks. But you may not know that now until March 22, one of them is free admission to The California Academy of Sciences. SF residents can walk “through” the ocean, stroll around the butterfly-filled rainforest, and oggle at a gorilla without dropping a dime during “Neighborhood Free Weekends.” Here’s how to make the most of your gratis visit.

Ready, Set, Action! Ride a Rocking Snail, Pet A Sea Urchin, Experience An Earthquake
The Early Explorers Cove is a play zone for folks under five. Tiny tikes who are still in the sedentary stage can hang out on a rocking snail while the older, mobile kids get their sea legs on the H.M.S. Academy or run around in the “jungle”.

Shake it up with kids over three at the popular Earthquake exhibit. Strollers aren’t allowed in the Earthquake house, but you’ll find parking just outside.

The Discovery Tidepool is fun for all ages. We heard squeals of delight from adults and toddlers alike who ventured to plunge their hands in the tank to pet an invertebrate.

Lunch and a Show
When you’ve had your fill of interactive activities and running around, head to The Terrace for a bite and a drink. Kids can refuel with an organic PB&J while while parents relax with a glass of wine or beer. (The second glass is free during Happy Hour from 2-4 p.m.). Proceed to the Morrison Planetarium to sit back and enjoy a show featuring more stars than any of the Hollywood movies.

Organizing Your Trip
Paying for standard entry for a family of four is more than $100, so taking advantage of your neighborhood’s free weekend is well worth it! (The standard entry cost is $35 for adults, $30 for teens aged 17 and under, and $25 for kids aged 4-11.) Adults can bring up to six kids each during the free weekends. Be sure to visit during the days allocated to your zip code.

Neighborhoods: Bernal Heights, Castro, Cole Valley, Glen Park, Haight, Lake Merced, Mission, Noe Valley, St. Francis Wood
Zip codes: 94110, 94114, 94117, 94127, 94131, 94132
Spring 2015 Free Days: Feb. 27, 28, Mar. 1

Neighborhoods: Parkside, Sunset
Zip codes: 94116, 94122
Spring 2015 Free Days: Mar. 6, 7, 8

Neighborhoods: Chinatown, Marina, Nob Hill, North Beach, Presidio, Richmond, Russian Hill, Seacliff, Telegraph Hill, Western Addition
Zip codes: 94108, 94109, 94115, 94118, 94121, 94123, 94126, 94129, 94133
Spring 2015 Free Days: Mar. 13, 14, 15

Neighborhoods: Bayview-Hunters Point, Downtown, Hayes Valley, Ingelside-Excelsior, Mission Bay, Potrero Hill, SoMa, Tenderloin, Treasure Island, Visitacion Valley
Zip codes: 94102, 94103, 94104, 94105, 94107, 94111, 94112, 94124, 94130, 94134, 94158
Spring 2015 Free Days: Mar. 20, 21, 22

For more info, including i.d requirements and other fine print, visit this page before your visit.
Golden Gate Park
55 Music Concourse Dr.
San Francisco, Ca
415-379-8000
Online: calacademy.org
Hours: Mon.–Sat. 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun.11 a.m.–5 p.m.

—Talia Page

Are you planning on attending your neighborhood free weekend?

Explore the 5 Senses at the San Diego Zoo

by Cherie GoughJuly 1, 2014

The San Diego Zoo is one of the city’s best spots to visit. But if you find yourself a bit bored by constantly visiting the lions, tigers and bears (oh my!), explore the Zoo in a new way. Plan your next trip as a way to teach your kiddos about connecting with their five senses and observing nature. We’ve got your insider’s guide on what to see, hear, eat, touch and smell at the Zoo.

Photo Credit: Jayme J via TripAdvisor

Do You See What I See?
The Reptile House is the perfect place to slow down and look carefully to spot that snake or lizard that looks just like a log. Watching the flamingos over the seasons offers a great learning experience. In spring, see the males run and wildly flap wings, while females begin to sit on nests. See if you can spot the fuzzy gray chicks, and on your next visit, notice how those chicks begin to change color as they develop.

Does your kiddo need a break from the stroller? Do your feet need a rest? Stop and sit right next to the glass at an enclosure. Taking a wait-and-see approach for just a few minutes can lead to a exciting close encounter with an animal. Talk about the color and texture of the animal’s skin, feathers or fur.

Photo credit: Ashley via TripAdvisor

Listen Carefully!
What can you hear by listening to the beautiful waterfalls abound in many areas of the Zoo? You can find them in Gorilla Tropics, Terrace Lagoon, Scripps Aviary, and the tapir exhibit. Listening to the rushing water is thrill enough for many kids even if the animals aren’t active. At various times each day, “rain” falls around the perimeter of Scripps Aviary. (Don’t worry – you won’t get wet!) Birds and kiddos will love experiencing this awesome rainforest experience.

Encourage kiddos the listen carefully as you can often hear the bells ringing at The Museum of Man’s Bell Tower throughout your visit to the Zoo. If it’s the top of the hour, count the bells together.

Image Credit: Cherie Gough

What’s that Smell?
Whew! Those camels sure are stinky. Challenge your kids to use their noses to find other smelly creatures on your next Zoo visit. If animal smells just aren’t your thing, then check out the abundant herb garden just across the street from the camels. You will enjoy the tasty smells of thyme, rosemary and other herbs and flowers planted along the wall.

Image Credit: Cherie Gough

Hands On!
What kid doesn’t love putting their hands on everything they see? The petting zoo is must-visit for those who only want to touch the animals. After petting the baby goats, ask your little one how an animal’s fur feels and compare it to pets at home. Stop by the bronze gorillas in Gorilla Tropics for a fun experience. Kids can compare their hand to a life-sized gorilla’s paw.For added fun, count the gorilla’s digits and your little one’s too. Be sure to snap a photo of your rugrat climbing on the gorilla.

Image Credit: Cassie N. via Yelp

Let’s Eat!
If you visit the Zoo in the morning, you may find orangutans and gorillas romping and leaping toward their snack. Ask your kids if they can find animals eating foods that are similar to their own snacks. For a real “taste” of how the animals eat, kids can feed a giraffe on the weekends from 12 – 1 p.m. for $10. Little ones will love watching these amazing creatures with long necks and tongues reach so close to them for a snack. The giraffe-feeding can get quite crowded, so be prepared to wait in a long line. But it’s worth it!

San Diego Zoo
2920 Zoo Dr.
San Diego, Ca
619-231-1515
Online: sandiegozoo.org

– Cherie Gough

Now Open: Legends of Chima Water Park at LEGOLAND California

by Tonya StaabJune 10, 2014

If your kiddos are as obsessed with LEGO Chima as we think they are, you definitely want to add a trip to the new LEGO Legends of Chima Water Park to your summer fun list. Your family will splash into the mystical land of Chima, and join the animal tribes as they battle for CHI, at LEGOLAND California.

The Main Attraction
The highlight of the new LEGO Chima Water Park is the Lion Temple Wave Pool. Kids will make their way under the LEGO lion archway into the interactive wave pool. Lifeguards are stationed at the waters edge waiting to measure your little swimmer, and free life jackets are available for those who need them. The Lion Temple Wave Pool releases 400 gallons of water every minute into the pool. The lion also takes “potty breaks” every so often and this is the perfect opportunity to explore one of the many other things to do.

Eglor, Wolves and Explorers
Kids can also design and build boats at Eglor’s Build-A-Boat and then race it down the rapids. You’ll also want to check out Explorers Forest, a tropical forest where you’l be greeted by none other than Gorzan the Gorilla in his 15-foot mech suit. Little speed racers should check out Speedorz Arena, an interactive play area that lets you race your Speedorz through unique obstacles.

Cragger’s Swamp
Don’t forget to head to Cragger’s Swamp too, which has more than 50 interactive water features including slides, water canons and jets. There’s even a slide that takes kids through the head of a massive crocodile. The best part is the water play areas are only one-foot deep – perfect for little ones and kids who are not pro swimmers.

Forever Rock is featured just outside Cragger’s Swamp. The iconic rock contains a smaller rock acting as chalk board for your kids to tally their achievements just as Cragger and Laval did.

Tips for Water Park Fun
Relaxing for Parents – If you’re craving some relaxation and a break from the heat, head to Rhino Beach for a sand-filled oasis with lots of shade and places to sit poolside in one of the many swimmer chairs. If you’re feeling like treating yourself to a relaxing day while the kids splash, you can reserve one of the 12 new cabanas, which start at $150 for a half day rental. The price includes lots of fun stuff, including a table with DUPLO bricks for playing.

Don’t Forget Your Camera – You’ll want to take pictures of your kids with characters from each of the eight animal tribes that are located throughout the water park.

Shopping – There’s no need to leave the Chima Water Park if you find yourself without a few things. There’s shopping available by the Lion Temple Wave Pool. So if you have forgotten to bring a towel or sunscreen, or your kid has broken their goggles, don’t worry, they are sure to have what you need.

Dining – After all of that splashing and battling, kids are bound to work up an appetite. Head to the Wolves’ Den for burgers, hot dogs, chili cheese fries, salads, and other assorted snacks and beverages to feed the tribe.

Tickets – Admission to the Chima Water Park is included with your LEGOLAND Water Park ticket. Purchase tickets online or at the entrance.

Hours – Be sure to check the calendar for opening hours as they do vary.

LEGOLAND California
One LEGOLAND Drive
Carlsbad, Cq 92008
760-918-5346
Online: california.legoland.com

Will you visit the new Legends of Chima Water Park at LEGOLAND California? Tell us in the comments and be sure to come back and let us know what you thought!

Written and photographed by Tonya Staab

ML Interest Tag: gorilla

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