HOLLYWOOD—Yes, yes, Ludo Lefebvre is participating in hip new Le Fooding food festival, this is nothing new. However, yesterday Ludo's camp blasted out the following banner over right which teases "special reservation opportunities exclusively for MasterCard cardholders to Trois Mec," the chef's forthcoming restaurant with chefs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo (Animal, Son of a Gun). And, according to the MasterCard site, tables are available starting April 2. [EaterWire]
REDONDO BEACH— Smashburger is next popping a squat at 409 N. Pacific Coast Highway on April 2. [EaterWire]
HIGHLAND PARK— A gimmicky new karate-themed restaurant called Ayta Grill debuted last week on N. Figueroa Street, relays The Eastsider. Grub Street adds that owners Tony Urbina (Empire Restaurant & Market Fixtures) and Ruben Herrera (Devon Glass) are serving an inexpensive Japanese menu. Of note: A Bruce Lee-esque action figure stands on the roof. Just saying. [The Eastsider, Grub Street]