One look at these Mayer v Food videos, and it’s not hard to tell that Mayer Hawthorne is an aspiring food personality. The guy clearly a) likes to eat and b) knows what he’s talking about. But that’s not the only reason we asked for a Friday Fives from the LA resident. While we are all about supporting fellow food-expert music friends, we’re actually far more interested in making sure that you know that Mayer Hawthorne is one of the most talented artists we’ve come across recently. Want some proof? We’ve had him in heavy rotation on our “Soul Music Sunday” Spotify playlist, and Mayer’s music stands up to some of the most classic of songs from the era, without sounding the least bit contrived. Listen to “The Walk” and tell us that doesn’t make you feel good.
Mayer’s new album How Do You Do, came out this week and is available for $7.99 at iTunes. Check out his go-to spots in LA, and brag about the fact that you are officially the cool person in your crew that knows about this guy.
Mayer’s “Perfect For” Picks
Dining Solo
The Apple Pan (10801 West Pico Boulevard / Los Angeles, CA 90064) – “Apple Pan looks like it hasn’t changed a thing since it opened in 1947. The U-shaped counter is first-come, first-served, so don’t bring your whole entourage. The burgers are on point and the fries are always crispy, but save room for the real gem: the pie. Surprisingly, even the employees (who also haven’t changed since ’47) will tell you the apple is the worst. Go for the banana creme and change your life forever.”
“Open late, but CLOSED MONDAYS!”
Date Night
Dan Tana’s (9071 Santa Monica Blvd / Los Angeles, CA 90069) – “Another oldie, but goodie – Dan Tana’s is the ultimate place to take your boo in West Hollywood. Simple, old-fashioned, Italian food, great service, and mad character. The portions are huge and everything comes with spaghetti, so split the chicken parm and get a nice bottle of wine. Bon appetit.”
Vegetarians
Samosa House (11510 West Washington Blvd / Los Angeles, CA 90066) – “If you’ve watched my web series “Mayer v Food,” you know I am NOT a vegetarian. I don’t frequent many vegetarian joints, but Samosa House is quickly becoming one of my favorite spots. This ain’t your noni’s traditional Indian restaurant – it’s new school and very LA – but one bite of their “veggie chicken” will squash any skepticism. I’m serious. The food is fresh, colorful and bursting with flavor and their mango lassi is off the hook. West siiiide.”
Late Night Eats
Tacos Leo (Corner of La Brea Blvd & Venice Blvd / Los Angeles, CA 90019) – “Los Angeles is a Spanish word. Let’s be real, LA is basically Mexico. I’m hesitant to give up my favorite taco truck because the line is long enough already – but for the late night hype, I head down La Brea to Leo. Go on the weekends when they grill the al pastor out front and the pineapple juice drips down into the sweet BBQ pork. Did I mention that the tacos are $1? And the mulitas… ohhhh the mulitas… dios mio mi amigo.”
Neighborhood Hang
Umami Burger (850 S La Brea Ave / Los Angeles, CA 90036) – “When I’m on tour for weeks at a time, this is the one I miss most. Designer, California hamburgers crafted with Japanese precision and style. Their menu of specials changes daily, the ingredients are always fresh and the flavors are explosive. I usually go for the “Hatch” – a beef patty (ground fresh) with their house American cheese and 4 types of green chilis. Partner that with some cheesy-tots (ask about ‘em, they’re not on the menu) and you’ll be jammin’ like the MC5. Hallelujah holla back.”
Bonus
Meals on Wheels
South Philly Experience “Food trucks are all the rage and most come and go in a matter of days, but South Philly is in the house y’all. I’ve been all over Philly and I’ve had the best – Jim’s, Ishkabibble’s, Tony Luke’s… word to Wanamaker, this steak is legit. Gimme a wiz wit.”
Mayer’s Twitter People
@Chromeo – current tour mates – dates on Facebook.
@AndrewWK – tips on partying from the authority. Also happens to be from my home town.
@pbwolf – President of Stones Throw Records & Tapes and the only dude who can spend more time in a record store than me.
@GhostfaceKillah – The World according to Pretty Tony.
@DJKurse – my brother from another – Flint-town’s finest.
