Before the Date…
The components of a cheeseboard seem simple enough. A board, a few cheeses, some cold cuts and you’re home free, right? Well when you team up with an artist of the board like @cheeseboardandchill these simple items become a canvas and edible paint. Throw some wine and a polo match in the mix and you’ve got yourself and incredible afternoon of creation.
So reach out to your cheese enthusiast friends and head out on the tastiest scavenger hunt imagineable.
St0p #1: 12:15pm
THE
WINE
What to Know
This old school wine shop doesn’t have the best curb appeal but man they have a wine selection that has attracted a loyal following.
If you can find Toni or one of the “sommeliers” working there do it. They will dive into the weeds on matching your cheese and meats with wonderful enthusiasm.
For next time: In the back is a wine bar which hosts a popular night called 20 for $20. It’s simple: 20 tastes for $20.
St0p #2: 12:35pm
THE
MEAT
What to Know
The parking can be a contentious on the street but first try scoring one of the few spots in the back.
Their deli selection is in the fridge to the right. Really a quarter pound of a couple cuts are going to be good enough for a few people. The house made bresaola was a 5/10. The house made pastrami a 9/10. The people that work here are extremely helpful so try away.
There is lots of love put into everything here. It may take a little bit of time for everything so prepare for a slight wait.
If you’re having a hard time choosing a full board they will set up a picnic basket for you with two menu items, meats, and fruit for $48.
St0p #3: 12:15pm
THE
CHEESE
What to Know
Driving north on Lincoln Ave. catch the parking lot to the left behind the shops before you hit Montana Ave.
If Andrew is there you’re in for a treat. He is the perfect combination of a cheese snob, your brother’s college friend from New Jersey and that guy who is the friendliest person at the party. You can’t help but want to be friends with him.
Remember what wine Toni set you up with that you’re going to be drinking, Andrew will match them then give you a little 4×6 card explaining the cheese. So smart, so needed.
If you’re in need of chocolates, crackers, olives, and other accoutrements Andrew’s has all of that.
St0p #4: 2pm
THE
CHEESEBOARD
What to Know
By LA terms this polo field is ancient as it was created in the 1920’s by Will Rogers himself. In fact it was where he and his family lived from 1928 to 1935.
Will Rogers was a fascinating man. Born in Indian Territory of Oklahoma in 1879 his massive personality and horse riding skills would lead him to Hollywood glory.
There is really only one place to park and that’s inside the state park, right next to the polo field. Parking costs $12.
The matches begin at 2pm and run until 5pm. Arrive any time between these hours it’s just a matter of how long you’d like to hang.
Polo as a game and it’s rules are fascinating once you dig into it. Break this out while you’re watching the match to understand what the heck is going on.