12 Hours at The Grove, Acai Bowls in Culver City, More!

MID-CITY— Curbed LA sticks around The Grove for a whole 12 hours in the height of the Christmas shopping season to see what the hubbub is all about. Among the choice observations? Skipping the long line at The Cheesecake Factory by bellying up to the bar, grabbing a gin and milk concoction at Mixoloxy 101, and having one last gin martini at La Piazza Ristorante's outdoor bar.

CULVER CITY— Toddrickallen reports than yet another açai bowl spot is headed to the Westside, this time in Culver City along Washington Blvd. No word on who's behind this concept.

DOWNTOWN— Brigham Yen checks out the soba happening at Gentaro in Financial District, saying that Ten Zaru soba with shrimp and vegetable tempura might be the highlight.