CJ Jacobsen Chefs Girasol, Rita's Italian Ice Freebie, More

STUDIO CITY— Studio City continues to welcome in better dining. The previously mentioned Girasol (formerly 8 1/2 Taverna) — which was "coming soon" last August, and then was supposed to open in January — will be cheffed by CJ Jacobsen who is presently spending time in Mercantile's kitchen. [LA Confidential via Grub Street]

VENICE— A home at 1033 Abbot Kinney was demolished a year ago to make room for a proposed new hotel, but approvals and such could take a while. So, in the meantime, the site will become "The Chef's Garden." According to Yo! Venice!, those at Home Grown Edible Landscapes will offer "custom growing subscriptions to chefs." [Yo! Venice!]

REDONDO BEACH— Rita's Italian Ice out of Philly opens its inaugural California shop on April 8. Those who stop by on April 8 or 9 receive freebie Italian ice. In other news, a Santa Monica location is coming soon. [LAist]

[Photo: Jean-Claude Fhal]