WOODLAND HILLS

In the rolling foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains lies the upscale community of Woodland Hills. Summers mean warm Mediterranean weather, and winters mean the return of the outdoor skating rink, courtesy of the L.A. Kings. In case any inexperienced skaters get a boo-boo, Kaiser Permanente, ranked the highest in all of the valley, is on De Soto Avenue.

There’s no lack of activity choices here. Shoppers will surely skip the skates in exchange for the 300+ stores of the Westfield Topanga and The Village. Nature lovers will opt for the popular Top of Topanga Overlook, a great place to unplug to do sun salutations in the day, and soak up the

city lights at night. Foodies can take their pick from gastropubs, Asian fusion, and straight up sushi bars. Swing by the Valley Cultural Center for free concerts from June to August, and free movies on the green on Saturday nights. And if you are really into green, then get yourself a membership to the Woodland Hills Country Club for both tee time, and tea time.

GRV LOCAL EATS

JOEY WOODLAND HILLS (6344 TOPANGA CANYON BLVD, Ste 1010)

If you didn't see this recommendation coming, then lunch is on me. This is Woodland Hills dining with a whole range of foods in a sleek, upscale restaurant/bar. It's one strobe light away from a nightclub... a nightclub with fantastic New American food.

MAGGIANO'S LITTLE ITALY (6100 TOPANGA CANYON BLVD)

Anyone that works in Woodland Hills likely works at the Warner Center. This is walking distance, which is good because you shouldn't be driving after eating this delicious food. It's a classic piece of Italian history.

FLEMING'S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR (6373 TOPANGA CANYON BLVD)

You've been driving by this place for years. Now try it! The ridiculous decor is built into the price of the steaks - but who cares when you can have Mastro's-level food without the drive?

VERDICT

It's the corner of the Valley. A commercial powerhouse combined with beautiful houses deep in the hills make this worthy of your hard-earned dollar... as long as you have enough of those.