I've been hitting the town hard, getting all kinds of great scoop to report- with all the new wine bars and the grand opening of Palate (created by the 2nd-in-command of the Patina Group, Octavio Becerra) no one can deny Glendale has become one of the hottest spots to live, eat and play (Yes, Dodger Stadium is only 4.2 miles away- you could ride your bike to a game-  but this section is food and wine).

I actually went to Palate on Monday night and all the tables were completely booked (we made reservations early in the day, but they told us it would be "iffy" if we got a table)...but luckily I went with a restaurateur who knew Octavio, so not only did we get the royal rug put out, but a tour of the wine vault, and soon to be opening tasting room.

This is amazing space (and old 1928 Bekins warehouse) and the drive from The Hudson took 3 minutes! I forgot my glasses, but my friend told me nothing on the menu was over 18 bucks (although all the wines we tasted broke the bank). Read more from the LA Times.

Palate also promises to have one of the finest cheese shops on the entire west coast. Based on the cheese plate we had for dessert, I'd bet on that horse any day of the week!