Carmageddon Strikes Weho: Eat Locally to Avoid the Gridlock

You can almost hear the Hollywood score signalling the doom that is about to befall Los Angeles— is almost here.

That's right, Carmageddon (a.k.a. the impending 53-hour closure of the 405 freeway, the massive artery that carries some 281,000 car per day), begins at midnight on Friday, July 15. Like a Hollywood celebrity, Carmageddon even has its own Facebook page, with more than 1,000 members, and hashtag on Twitter.

Predicting widespread doom and destruction, officials across the city are urging Los Angelenos to stay home and avoid the traffic nightmare.

Though West Hollywood residents may be patting themselves on the back, this is not just a Westside problem. Even canyon roads like Laurel Canyon Boulevard, which feeds right into the heart of West Hollywood, are predicted to be gridlocked. The Los Angeles Times has published a guide of what streets to avoid, including canyon roads.

"I was invited to a party on the Westside this weekend, but I'm not going to go now," said Eastsider Ariana Mufson.

But what's a hungry Los Angeleno to do? One option is hole up in your home like a character in a Zombie apocalypse movie. But where's the fun in that? If you're feeling stir crazy, or simply worried about starving due to your lack of culinary skills, your best bet is to eat locally.

"I'm planning on staying in my neighborhood," Mufson continued. "I'm lucky that I live in a walkable area."

And so do many in West Hollywood, which plays host to some of the city's top restaurants. A few eateries like salad franchise are even offering Carmageddon-themed drink specials. On Saturday and Sunday, July 16 and 17, stop in for a glass of handcrafted beer for only $4.05.

"I think that it's a great opporunity to not use my car for the weekend," said West Hollywood resident Leanna Crowley Sellers. "There are a ton of great places in our neighborhood."

Here are a few of our picks for where to eat locally this weekend:

1.

In honor of Carmageddon, this healthy eatery is offering a drink special. Stop in on Saturday or Sunday, July 16 or 17, for a glass of handcrafted beer for only $4.05. Also, check out their array of healthy salads and sandwiches. It's a great choice for a casual lunch or dinner.

2. Lucques

Famous for their Sunday night suppers, make a reservation at this famed Weho eatery now. This weekend's menu features a sweet corn soup, either market fish or grilled country-style pork chops, and santa rosa plum coupe for dessert. The three-course fixed menu is only $45.

3.

If you're craving Mexican food, there's no need to go south of the border this weekend. This hot eatery from Top Chef Master Rick Bayless is the perfect for a spicy summer meal. Chow down on ceviche, enchiladas, and taquitos, and wash them all down with cold margaritas.

4.

Coney Dog is one of the new must try restaurants in Weho. This budget-friendly eatery features Detroit-style hot dogs, chili-cheese fries, and Faygo pop. It's the perfect place for a quick lunch or bite before hitting the Sunset Strip for a fun night out.

5.

If you're looking to eat where the foodies go, this is the restaurant for you. With an ever-changing menu of local finds and its own butcher shop, this restaurant is one of West Hollywood's best kept secrets. So beat the traffic and dine on the best local food WeHo has to to offer.

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