Chocolate Savvy Opened at the Simi Valley Town Center This Past Monday

Ahhhh it's happening #ChocolateSavvy #CakeShop #SimiValley pic.twitter.com/jb4Zoj4dku

— Chocolate Savvy SV (@ChocolateSavvy) June 4, 2014

Chocolate Savvy - cakes, cupcakes and more - opened this past Monday, July 7th, at the Simi Valley Town Center, next to Wetzel's Pretzels. Looks great to me! The store can be reached at 805.582.1030.

Daytime Closures at Hampshire Road Wednesday, July 16 through Friday, July 18

Northbound US 101 On-Ramp at Hampshire Road Closed Wednesday Night, July 9 

The Hampshire Road on-ramp to the northbound US 101 freeway will be closed from 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 9 to 6 a.m. Thursday, July 10. This closure will allow the contractor to complete a concrete pour on a retaining wall that is being constructed along the ramp. Intermittent nighttime closures of this ramp will continue over the next few weeks. 

Daytime Road Closures at Hampshire Road Beginning Wednesday, July 16

As part of the US 101 bridge widening at Hampshire Road, preparations are under way to begin pile driving the week of July 14. Pile driving is a common method of constructing bridge foundations. To support the bridge foundation, steel or concrete beams (known as "piles") are driven into the ground by a large hammer mounted atop a crane, until the beams reach a hard layer of earth beneath the foundation. Please be advised, this work may be loud and disruptive due to vibration and pounding.

WHEN/WHERE: In order for the contractor to set up the pile driving crane and other equipment, Hampshire Road underneath the US 101 freeway as well as the northbound US 101 Hampshire Road on- and off-ramps will be closed, from 9 p.m. Monday, July 14 to 6 a.m. on Tuesday, July 15.

Pile driving on Hampshire Road will begin during the day on Wednesday, July 16. Hampshire Road will be closed to through traffic at the US 101 freeway, daily between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Wednesday, July 16 through Friday, July 18. The US 101 freeway on- and off-ramps on Hampshire Road will remain open, however there will be no access on the roadway underneath the freeway. To avoid delays, motorists are encouraged to avoid the area and consider using alternate routes.

For more information regarding upcoming closures scheduled on the project, visit www.toaks.org/10123.

DISCLAIMER: Please be advised, dates and times are subject to change due to unforeseen operational factors or inclement weather. Source: 101/23 Project Team.

California Kabob Kitchen Opened Last Week in Moorpark

After posting an update on the Conejo Valley Guide Facebook Page about a couple anticipated new Mediterrean eateries in Thousand Oaks, Joey C. informed us that California Kabob Kitchen opened last week in the Starbucks shopping center at 537 New Los Angeles Avenue (at Spring Road) in Moorpark. She also indicated the kabobs are fresh, the Persian stews are amazing and they sell falafel, hummus and other great stuff. <pause> (Sorry, just had to wipe slobber from the keyboard.)

No website from what I can tell but check out their Facebook page or call 805.530.3828 for more information. So far nothing but 5 star Yelp reviews, so they must be doing something right!

Hummus Brothers Greek Grill to Open Soon at The Oaks Mall in Thousand Oaks

A new eatery is coming soon to The Oaks Mall food court in the spot previously occupied by Sbarro. Hummus Brothers Greek Grill is anticipated to open in mid-July.

The Thousand Oaks Sbarro was closed along with 16 other California locations as part of 182 closures nationwide earlier this year according to the Orange County Register. There's still a Sbarro location at the Pacific View Mall in Ventura.

Back to Hummus Brothers...visit their Facebook page for updates at www.facebook.com/hummusbros.

Dog Haus to Open Location in Former Denny's Spot in Thousand Oaks

Update 1/3/15: Still in "Coming Soon" status but I'm sure it'll be worth the wait :) www.doghaus.com/locations/california/thousand-oaks-thousand-oaks-blvd.html

Update 7/6/14: Dog Haus Thousand Oaks has its own Facebook page at www.facebook.com/doghausthousandoaks for updates on grand opening date.

Originally posted 4/18/14: The Thousand Oaks Denny's at 50 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard closed its doors way back in August 2012. Dog Haus "The Absolute Würst - Gourmet Hot Dog, Burger, and Sausages" is slated to open here.  Dog Haus has three locations in the Pasadena/Alhambra are but has plans for rapid growth through franchising. Their menu includes special all-beef skinless hot dogs, gourmet sausages and freshly ground angus beef burgers.

Their menu, available at doghaus.com, includes such unique and delicious sounding choices as the "Sooo Cali" Dog (arugula, tomato, crispy onions, spicy basil aioli and avocado) and the "Scott Baioli" (carmelized onions, smoked bacon, onion rings, BBQ sauce and garlic aioli).

Additional Tenants at the "Shoppes at Westlake Village" Highlighted

Update July 5, 2014:

Additional tenants since the last update include Which Wich® Superior Sandwiches, Bowl of Heaven Acai Bowls, Kirk Jewelers, The Gallery (a gourmet restaurant specializing in fresh seafood, chops and oysters) and Figueroa Mountain Brewing as well as a Sports Clips. Target is planning to open on Sunday, July 27th.

Posted March 14, 2014:

A few months ago we noted that the 240,000 sq ft Shoppes at Westlake Village development would be home to a new Target store, In N Out Burger and Total Woman Gym & Spa in the summer of 2014.

Since then, a number of new tenants have been named for this brand new property at www.shoppesatwestlakevillage.com. Here goes:

Olio e Limone Ristorante (meaning "oil and lemon" in Italian) serves "simply sophisticated" Italian cuisine in an inviting atmosphere with European hospitality. They have been operated in Santa Barbara for nearly 15 years and their second location will be right here at the Shoppes. Learn more at www.olioelimone.com.

Next door to Olio e Limone will be Olio Pizzeria, a casual concept emphasizing simple, delicious everyday artisanal Italian food with a contemporary twist. Enjoy boutique salumi and formaggi, authentic pizza and regional wines, Italian beers and signature cocktails.

All Tressed Up BlowDry and Beauty Bar is an express luxury service salon where you can sit at a luxurious blowdry bar, sip champagne or surf on complimentary iPads while undergoing your beauty makeovers. More at getalltressedup.com.

Jeannine's Gourmet Food Hall is joining the Shoppes with its one-of-a-kind pastries and nutritious, wholesome food. Jeannine's has three locations in Santa Barbara - in Montecito, Downtown and Uptown. Family owned for 30 years! Learn more at jeannines.com. (Update: Jeannine's opened in mid-October)

BCBC Nail Spa will also be opening at the Shoppes, offering superior nail service in a relaxing atmosphere.

Hook Burger will be opening a new location at the Shoppes too! Founded by the folks with 35 years of burger experience with The Habit. Hook burgers are humanely raised, 100% USDA lean beef and chicken is fresh and hormone and antibiotic free. You can try Hook now in its Oxnard location. Learn more at hookburger.com. (Update: Hook Burger opened in early October 2014)

Last but not least for now, Tilly's, which specialized in action sports clothing, shoes and accessories, is opening a new location at the Shoppes. www.tillys.com

Learn more about the Shoppes at Westlake Village at www.shoppesatwestlakevillage.com.

Ventura County Animal Services Offers Tips to Keep Pets Safe 4th of July Weekend

Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) is bracing for what is sure to be one of their busiest weekends of the year. Each year, during the days surrounding 4^th of July, hundreds of pets become frightened by fireworks and run away from their homes and yards. These pets, lost and confused, often end up at VCAS’ animal adoption centers in Camarillo and Simi Valley.

“The sights, sounds and smells of fireworks can be terrifying for some pets,” said Tara Diller, VCAS Director. “By following some very simple safety tips, people can keep their animals safe and secure while they enjoy 4^th of July festivities.”

Pet Safety Tips:

1. Do not take your pet to fireworks displays.
2. Do not leave your pet alone in the car - Pets can suffer serious health effects, even death, in a few short minutes when left in a hot car. Unfortunately, partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they can provide an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.
3. Make sure your pets are properly licensed and wearing identification tags, so that if they become lost, they can be returned promptly. Make sure that tags have current phone numbers and VCAS has current owner contact information on file.
4. Get your pet microchipped or, if it already is, make sure the microchip company has your current contact information.
5. Animals found running at-large should be taken to a VCAS animal adoption center, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.
6. Keep your pets in a comfortable and quiet area during Fourth of July festivities. If your pet is crate trained, then their crate is a great choice.
7. Be sure that you remove any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep your pet company if you won't be home.
8. If your pet seeks comfort in a bath tub, under a bed or other small space, let them. Do not try to lure them out. If the space is safe and it makes them feel more secure, leave them there.
9. Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.
10. If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder or fireworks, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays.

Those who do lose a pet can search for it on VCAS’ website at www.vcas.us or by using their free iPhone/Android mobile pet adoption apps at  bit.ly/1nXm3jK (Apple iTunes) or http://bit.ly/V3LEAz (Google Play).

In addition, VCAS posts photos of all lost animals brought into their adoption centers on the VCLostPets Twitter account at twitter.com/VCLostPets.

Mediterranean Pita Grill to Open June 30, 2014 in Westlake Village

In January, Conejo Valley Guide Facebook follower Lauren R tipped us off that Mediterranean Pita Grill would be opening soon in Westlake Village, next to Tikka Grill at 5790 Lindero Canyon Road (near the corner of E. Thousand Oaks Blvd.).

Today we heard that the eatery will be opening on Monday, June 30th.

Mediterranean Pita Grill has been in business nearly three years at 26527 Agoura Road in Calabasas, serving up shawerma, falafel, kabob and other fine Mediterranean delicacies. Based on its Yelp reviews, it looks to be a great addition to Westlake Village.

Learn more at www.mediterraneanpitagrill.com.

Mother's Day Visit to The Grill on the Alley in Westlake Village

A guest post about a visit to The Grill on the Alley at The Promenade at Westlake.

Last month I took my mom out for a Mother's Day dinner experience at The Grill on the Alley in Westlake Village. 

The Grill is a classic steakhouse. Had it been here in the 1960s, I envision the Rat Pack stopping by, enjoying The Grill's "hand crafted" martinis or classic highballs.

The Red Velvet Martini, Side Car Martini and other cocktails sounded great, but mom and I chose a glass of wine and a Bloody Mary to start our evening. Both drinks were perfect.

Next came the appetizers. I had the special, the Tuna Steak Tartare, and mom had a beautiful, crisp fresh salad. Again, nothing short of perfect.

My main course was the Filet Mignon with truffle butter, along with a side of braised brussels sprouts to share.  Mom had one of The Grill's specials - calf's liver with onions and bacon. Everything melted in our mouths; it was so tender our knives were rarely needed.

For dessert we enjoyed coffee, creme brûlée and the best key lime pie I can ever remember. Ever.

We enjoyed the evening from start to finish. The service was impecabble, with waiters donning white coats like it was a special event (which it was, but of course).

We are looking forward to our next visit, and are determined not to wait until next Mother's Day to do so. Next time I may try the oysters on the half shell with mignonette sauce, crab cocktail and the filet steak salad, or the pan seared salmon with shittake mushroom beurre blanc sauce and the grilled asparagus, along with the Ruby Red Lemon Drop Martini!

And perhaps if I bring my boys, they will opt for the American Kobe Burger with black and white truffle mayonnaise, served with jumbo onion rings. My husband, who is not a big red meat eater, will undoubtedly enjoy the pan-seared salmon and will splurge on the Lobster Mashed Potatoes.

The Grill, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, offers catering, meeting and conference space, wireless internet, indoor/outdoor seating and valet parking.  There is a traditional prime rib dinner offered Sundays after 5 pm.  Open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 am to 10 pm,  Friday open until 11 pm, Saturday 11 am to 11 pm and Sunday 11 am to 9:30 pm.  For reservations, call (805) 418-1760 or book your table online at thegrill.com/locations/the-grill-westlake-village-california.

Some recent additions to The Grill's menu includes Seared Ahi Sashimi, Braised Brussels Sprouts and Cauliflower Gratin. Looking forward to our next visit.