A branch-shaded brick alleyway slopes downward, as the midday sun illuminates the large blackboard bearing the names of spices familiar and unusual. Follow the cheery yellow and orange placards with the arrows down to a calming courtyard with a fountain, then take a deep breath and prepare to enter a world of flavor and aroma. more ›

Senator Barbara Boxer, along with Foster Farms, yesterday called on the USDA to take a closer look at misleading labeling practices of chicken. These days, that "all natural" label could mean just that, or it could mean sodium-injected, a sexy practice called plumping. Chicken labeled “natural” can contain up to 500 percent more sodium than truly natural, no saltwater added, fresh chicken. Despite the trickery on the packaging, reading the nutrition label would also clue people in. more ›

When LAist stumbled upon the gorgeous 20s bungalow that houses the Society of the Spectacle eyewear boutique in Highland Park/Eagle Rock, we fell in love. LAist recently caught up with co-owner Katie O'Connell to learn about the history of the shop, tips everyone should keep in mind when selecting new eyewear, and why Highland Park is such a fantastic and "mysteriously convenient" neighborhood. more ›

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If you're anything like us and still incorporate large quantities of instant ramen noodles into your diet (is that shameful for a food writer to admit?), this morning's news might cause more than a little worry. We woke to our local news broadcasters discussing yet another American health worry: salt. Apparently Americans consume 50% too much salt in their diet, much of it locked up in processed and canned foods, and the FDA is... more ›