Turns Out $250 Isn’t Enough to Experience Vespertine, and More A.M. Intel

The whole shebang costs a bit more than $250 a person

Vespertine, which opened last night to its first official dinner service from the mind of Jordan Kahn, has an interesting little “offer” for diners that make a reservation. When purchasing tickets online, the $250 meal, which doesn’t include any beverages, tax, or service charges, does offer a postprandial session of coffee, tea, and after-dinner drinks for the small price of $30 per person. The kicker? The website states: “We ask that all guests participate.” It’s like when tasting menus offer a truffle supplement but say, “we ask that all guests order the supplement.” The add-on, which is dubbed “Addilantis,” is only offered if weather permits. Vespertine is mostly booked for the month of July but there are plenty of tables still available for August.

Grab and go Soylent

Soylent, the all-in-one nutritional beverage that could replace one’s entire diet, was previously only available via delivery (or a wonderful powder). Starting July 10, the LA-based company will stock three flavors, chai, cacao, and coffee, in eighteen 7-11 stores around the LA area. Most of the locations will be on the Westside of town.

Bring on the Chronic

Chronic Tacos, which has 25 outlets across Southern California, is opening their first LA-area location in Burbank (they’ve had one in Long Beach). The grand opening takes place July 8 with a slew of giveaways for their first customers. The fast-casual franchise does an expansive take on Mexican classics, like carne asada, al pastor, fish tacos, and tortas.

The Rose is the place to be during the day

Kat Odell, former Eater LA editor, is promoting her book Day Drinking at The Rose in Venice on July 16. The event starts at 2 p.m. and comes with a signed copy of the book, small dishes from chef Jason Neroni, and of course cocktail tastings. Grab a ticket, which costs $48, here.

On the subject of competitive eating

Two food writers named Josh (Josh Lurie, who contributes to Eater LA, and Josh Scherer), debate the subject of competitive eating. The Twitter conversation, recorded here, ponders the purpose of things like the Nathan’s hot dog-eating competition.

Wonderful $2 corkage at this beloved French chain

Cafe Bizou, which has been preparing approachable and reasonably priced prix fixe French food for decades in the Valley, with locations in Pasadena and Sherman Oaks, has opened a location in Agoura Hills. It takes over the former Cafe 14 along Canwood Street, and offers one of the sweetest corkage deals in town: just $2.