Natalie James

My husband and I stopped by @bacetti.la for dessert and ordered the Meringa which is new on their menu. Although the meringue was a bit more dense than I’m accustomed to, the whipped cream and berries were absolutely divine. It paired lovely with @canyoncoffee espresso, Pellegrino and some funky orange wine recommended by the server. Excellent service all around and cannot wait to return for dinner.

I am excited to share that my first story for @cultured_mag is an interview with artist @lailacooks. We discuss @gohar.world, a gorgeous tableware line she launched with her sister @nadia_gohar, that bring humor and tradition to the dining table. Two of my favorites from the collection include the black satin baguette bag and apron with lace appliqué. Merci infiniment to @sarahgharrelson for the opportunity and to a stellar editor, @efazzare. 📸 Photography by @roeethridge 🖥 Story link in bio

The Cucumber Insalata at @marcopolotrattoriala is made with bottarga (cured fish row) and it’s lovely. Another al freso dining destination that feels like a vacation. . . . . . #silverlake #ladining #italianfood #larestaurants #instafood #eeeeeats #saladsofinstagram #lunchdate

An excellent lobby @thehoteljune. . . . . #travel #cntravel #hoteldesign #ahotellife #instatravel #design #chairsofinstagram #westla

Experiencing as many #JamesTurrell Skyspaces while on this Earth. Three Gems at the @deyoungmuseum (San Francisco) is a spiral of cold beauty set against brutalist grays and a captivating hue of blush.

When I decided to step foot into a dining establishment again, it had to be al fresco. The restaurant at @cara_hotel whisked me away with its romantic atmosphere of olive trees, roses, and it’s down-to-earth elegance. The Cara is perfect for coffee, wine, and a light bite to eat if you’re looking to escape the streets of Los Angeles.

Back in the Fall I was thinking about my favorite places for breakfast and @destroyer.la is one that I’ve continually returned to throughout the years. The restaurant always something new to look forward to with unique dishes that are executed so beautifully. I need to try the Winter menu before it’s gone!

My camera roll is spilling over with photos of Saif and I happy as clams throughout the past year. The first time I saw a photo of us together I thought to myself, “I’ve never looked so happy!” This person showers me with the love, affection, and respect I always envisioned from a partner.

@misterjius was one of my first forays back into the dining experience during year 2 of the global pandemic. The San Francisco @michelinguide-starred restaurant serves contemporary Chinese cuisine prepared with hyper-local California produce. The chow fun at MJ’s was especially delicious made with @stemplecreek beef. Growing up in San Gabriel, known for its superb Asian food, eating (and learning about) Chinese cuisine has played a major role in my palate development over the decades. Experiencing sophisticated flavors never gets old.

I experienced a lot of art last week and @_alfonsogonzalezjr debut solo show, There Was There, at @matthewbrownla was a personal favorite. It’s up through March 19 and I recommend you see it. I especially loved the @drakeotheruler and El Pato pieces. The opening was one of the biggest I’ve seen in LA in some time.

The Wynn made our wedding cake for 6 and it was one of the most delicious desserts I’ve ever eaten and absolutely the most special. I couldn’t have anticipated how meaningful such an intimate celebration would be.

The morning view after our wedding. From the 58th floor of @wynnlasvegas