Gene's Grinders

Gene's has one of the most delicious meatball sandwiches in town. Easy to miss on the southern end of Old Town Monrovia. Definately a good choice for lunch in Monrovia.

Rose City Pediatrics

Dr Gokey is one of the most competent doctors that I have ever encountered. She made a really difficult diagnosis for my youngest daughter that another doctor missed. It probably saved her life. She has a great beside manner and she makes my kids feel really comfortable. On the occassion that we have had to see another doctor in the practice we have also been very pleased. They are a wonderful group and we look forward to many more years of their care.

PROS: Great doctors
CONS: Don't accept HMO

Ulta Salon and Cosmetics

This is a great one stop shop for all your beauty needs. I bought a curling iron there that I absolutely love. My friend was going to get the same brand with her salon discount and there was only a couple dollar difference. There are so many items offered there it is kind of mind boggling. They have hair products, cosmetics, and accesories and the selection is great. They also offer a card that accumulates rewards the more you spend.

Zankou Chicken

It boils down to one reason to dine at this establishment...the food. The ambiance is lacking but the chicken is melt in your mouth good. The chicken is slowly cooked in a rotisserie and then served with mouth watering garlic butter. I always make sure to ask for extra pita because it tastes the best with the pita bread. Yummy!!!!!!!!!!!

Aquarium of the Pacific

This is truly a world class aquarium. Many of the exhibits are awe inspiring. I really like the outdoor shark exhibits. The touch tanks have the rays that seem to enjoy the attention from all the kids and adults who flock around the tanks. The feeding time for the large sharks is a real unique experience. It makes you truly appreciate the power that these huge animals possess. Definately worth the drive.

Smith Park Pool

I give this pool 4 stars because of the excellent swimming lessons that they offer over the summer. I do not like the pool for their free swim. The swim instructors are excellent and they are very good with hesitant children and teach children very well. Both my children look forward to their lessons every summer. The registration process is a challenge but if you have the time it is worth it.

Kidspace Children's Museum

This newly constructed museum is a great interactive museum for children of all ages. The interior portion of the museum consists of lots of climbing towers that extend into very tall towers. There is educational material that ranges from insects to earthquakes. Outside there is a pseudo race track and a fleet of tricycles and big wheels for children to burn some energy. This is a great place for children to burn off some steam. It is a little pricey at $8 per person but is worth it.

North Figueroa Animal Hospital

This is a bare bones vet but they will take care of your animal without emptying your wallet. My dogs have had some serious procedures like corneal surgery and it only cost me $150.00. Most places would charge 4 times that much. Dr Vasquez is a real professional, but the waiting room is cramped and hot and can be extremely busy. At these prices it is no surprise and is worth the discomfort.

James Robert Salon

I went to see James on the recommendation of a good friend of mine who always has a great hair cut. First off I couldn't believe how reasonable his prices are. Only $35 for a cut, and boy does he know how to give a good cut. The salon itself is nothing fancy. It has a garage theme, and has hubcaps hung through out. I must say that James is such a down to earth person and is really easy to talk to. He is very good at reading your face and helping you find a style to fit your face. After my first visit with James I felt like a new woman. I look forward to going back soon.

Anthropologie

This store has truly outstanding clothes, but you need to have a big wallet to buy much of anything here. They do have a sales rack in the back, where you can come closer to paying reasonable prices for great fashion. They also carry interior design items and quirky things for the home. Their jewelry is gorgeous, and the material that they use for their clothing is always so beautiful. If you think nothing of spending a couple hundred on a single pair of pants this is the place for you. Every timeI wear something that I purchase there, I get numerous complements.