Michael Stickle

On Tuesday, October 21, make sure to keep your eyes out for Robin Hood and his merry men, who have traded the green canopy of Sherwood Forest for the palm tree-lined streets of Los Angeles in celebration of MGM+’s romantic adventure series, which premieres on Sunday, November 2.  Why have the legendary outlaw and his band of do-gooders headed for the West Coast? Inspired by the famously generous Robin Hood of folklore, they’ll be roaming the city to spread a little unexpected joy and surprise. You can expect to see them sharing small acts of kindness all over L.A. In fact, you might even catch them buying a round of lattes for everyone in your favorite coffee shop, or picking up the tab for a table of strangers. They’ll be everywhere from West Hollywood to Culver City, but you’re most likely to catch a glimpse of the merry men in busy spots, where they’ll be spreading smiles to strangers and neighbors alike.  The idea behind this Robin Hood pop-up is simple but powerful: one generous gesture can turn an ordinary day into a reminder of just how good we can be to each other. So, on Tuesday, October 21, whether you’re grabbing coffee at Farm Cup Coffee (7748 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood) at 7:30am, Drip & Dolce (8807 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood) at 9am or Philz Coffee in Culver (9300 Culver Blvd #113, Culver City) at 11:30am, you should be prepared to be inspired by a glimpse of the legend himself. If you’re lucky enough to see Robin and his gang of merry men (pro tip

Forget Hamilton singalongs and ghost stories that rely on jump scares. Purefinder New York offers something far more provocative: walking tours rooted in the city’s most inconvenient truths. Founded on the premise that New York’s history is far stranger and darker than fiction, these offbeat tours are meticulously researched, unsanitized and not remotely concerned with whether you’re comfortable. This isn’t history with a halo. Purefinder New York’s lineup includes Central Park Scandal & Vice (spoiler: not everyone was picnicking), The Outlaws Who Built NYC (because robber barons and political fixers rarely get the Ken Burns treatment) and Twilight Tour: Death in New York, a moonlit wander through some of the city’s more creatively tragic demises. All kidding aside, these aren't your run-of-the-mill "organized crime" or "famous deaths" tours. Be prepared to learn how the city—and the country—was shaped by people and events that might not be so admirable, but were undeniably influential. These are stories where outlaws helped invent law enforcement, vice led to reform and the most shocking deaths often left behind something more interesting than just a crime scene. Each tour peels back the layers of city mythology to reveal what actually happened, using public records, archival research and a tone that gently reminds you this was never the land of moral high ground. No ghosts, no myths, no pretending everyone was just chasing the American Dream in a corset. Time Out called Pur

Thai kitchens don’t whisper, they roar: garlic sizzles, chilies pound, woks clang. And always in the background, jasmine rice steams quietly in the corner, filling the air with a soft, pandan-like perfume. For Thais, that fragrance means home. For me, that scent is steeped in nostalgia. As a child, when my head barely reached the countertop, I would watch my mother lift the lid of the rice pot, a cloud of steam rising to veil her face. Later, when the rice cooker gave its telltale ‘pop,’ my role was clear: to fluff the rice quickly, separating each grain before closing the pot again to trap its warmth and perfume. Even now, that small but important duty remains mine. That daily ritual revolves around what the world knows as jasmine rice. But its true name and official designation is Khao Hom Mali, Thailand’s most celebrated grain. First discovered in the Northeast in 1945, it is protected under Thailand’s Geographical Indication (GI) certification and can only be grown in Thai soil. The most prized fields lie in the Thung Kula Ronghai basin of Isan, where once-barren saline plains have, over generations, been transformed into fertile paddies. Here, the extremes of hot days, cool nights and mineral-rich soil coax out the rice’s signature qualities: a floral aroma, delicate sweetness and a soft, fluffy texture when cooked. Harvested just once a year in late autumn, these grains are recognized globally as the finest fragrant rice in the world. Photograph: Courtesy of Tourism Au

Keeping up with what’s cool and new in running can seem overwhelming. With all the buzz about form, foam and finish lines, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind before you even start. Luckily, Skechers is shifting the experience to feel a lot more approachable. It’s not just about chasing a faster time. It’s about finding your rhythm and maybe even your people. Because, while running might look like a solo sport, it’s often the people around you who keep you moving. That’s why we’re teaming up with Skechers to sponsor two Time Out Connect Run Club events in New York City and Los Angeles. We’re tapping into existing crews that already know the value of showing up. These meet-ups are relaxed, social and open to anyone who wants to move their own way. Peak and Pace Run Club   Photograph by Ajahnii Johnson, courtesy of Peak and Pace Run Club   Tuesday, September 16 @7:00pmSkechers 5th Avenue, 509 5th Ave, New York, NY 10017Energy meets intention at Peak and Pace, where every stride through NYC feels like a step toward something meaningful. This community-led run club welcomes all paces and backgrounds, creating space for connection on and off the pavement. There’s no pressure to hit a certain speed or style, just a shared commitment to showing up. Expect positive vibes, scenic routes and plenty of encouragement along the way. It’s movement with purpose and proof that running together can be just as powerful as running fast. West Hollywood Run Club Photograph: Courtesy o

Being healthy isn’t just about kale and cardio; it’s about living well. It’s taking a walk with friends, grabbing lunch in a new neighborhood, dancing your heart out at a concert, or heading out to the farmers market on a Sunday just because you can. At least, that’s what CityMD believes. And frankly, we agree. That’s why Time Out and CityMD are celebrating the idea that wellness starts with showing up. We’re giving one lucky winner a $500 SpaFinder gift card, good at hundreds of spas, including some seriously soothing spots across New Jersey and New York. And yes, we’re telling you to get out… so you can spend the day inside. But when “inside” means heated stone beds, herbal steam rooms and full-body massages, we think it’s worth the trip. Of course, going out also means life happens—twisted ankles, surprise fevers, mystery coughs and bumps or bruises you want to get checked out. That’s where CityMD comes in. With dozens of locations across the region, they make it easy to take care of the everyday stuff without derailing your day. Walk in, check in, get seen, get going. No appointments, no weeks of waiting, no guessing games. CityMD is designed for people who don’t have time to be sick. Their providers handle everything from minor injuries and quick tests to vaccines, physicals and urgent issues that can’t wait, and their clinics open early, stay open late and even operate on weekends. All because life doesn’t stop at 5pm, and neither should your healthcare. If you alread

Fragrant, tender and remarkably versatile, Thai Hom Mali rice is the kind of ingredient that can define a meal. Its delicate aroma fills the kitchen as it cooks, and its soft yet distinct grains adapt easily to countless dishes. It holds sauces beautifully, adds texture to stir-fries and pairs as naturally with a complex curry as it does with simply grilled vegetables or fish. For home cooks and chefs alike, it is a grain that elevates both flavor and presentation. Whether you want rice to serve as the base of a signature menu item or to complement a favorite weeknight dish, Thai Hom Mali delivers consistency and depth. It works just as well as a neutral canvas for bold flavors as it does as a standout element on its own. This balance of versatility and character is part of why it has become a staple in kitchens worldwide. Photograph: Courtesy of Department of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Commerce (Thailand) The variety was first identified in 1945 and is now recognized as one of Thailand’s most valued agricultural products. What sets it apart from other long-grain rices is how it's grown, which includes a precise mix of soil, climate and farming practices found primarily in the northeastern provinces. The Plains of Thung Kula Ronghai are particularly renowned for producing rice with a high concentration of aroma and quality. Cultivation follows a strict seasonal cycle. Thai Hom Mali rice is harvested only once a year, typically in late autumn, when the grains have reached pe

Two hundred years ago, a stretch of water changed everything. The Erie Canal cut across New York like a promise, connecting cities, fueling trade and helping shape the future of the state. And now, in a move that feels fittingly bold and celebratory, the New York Lottery is tipping its hat to that legacy and commemorating 200 years of the Erie Canal with something equally game-changing: The Million Dollar Raffle.  This isn’t your usual lottery game. It’s a first-of-its-kind raffle that offers fifteen New Yorkers a chance at one million dollars. Yes, fifteen people will walk away with one million dollars each when the raffle draws on October 26, 2025. That’s an opportunity few games can offer, and few can match the fantastic odds. With a limited number of tickets available, this raffle offers players the best odds to win a life-changing prize; no complicated rollovers, no massive jackpot chasing, just a straightforward shot at a million dollars. We all love a good “it could happen to anyone” fantasy, but there’s something even sweeter about a game that tilts the odds slightly more in your favor. But don’t wait too long. Unlike your average weekly draw game, the Million Dollar Raffle comes with a hard limit on tickets. Once they’re gone, they’re gone—no second chances, no extras waiting in the wings. It’s a one-time shot, and considering the odds (seriously, they’re that good), tickets are going faster than a cab on a green light. There’s something special about a raffle like t

When it comes to Broadway shows that stop you in your tracks, MJ the Musical delivers a singular kind of electricity. Named one of our top picks for the season by Time Out theater editor Adam Feldman, this production brings the unmistakable magic of Michael Jackson that hits on all fronts: music, movement and style. From the very first beat, the show pulls you into Jackson’s orbit with hit after hit—“Beat It,” “Bad,” “Smooth Criminal,” “Man in the Mirror”—songs you know by heart and maybe a few forgotten loves. But this isn’t just a concert disguised as theater. The story uses the 1992 Dangerous World Tour rehearsals as its frame, flashing back through Jackson’s childhood and career to explore the moments that shaped his artistry and ambition. It’s structured less like a linear biography and more like a dynamic memory sequence, one that’s constantly in motion. Photograph: Courtesy of MJ the Musical That movement is no accident. The choreography, created by Christopher Wheeldon, who also directs the show, includes many of Jackson’s original steps and sequences. Wheeldon—best known for An American in Paris—goes beyond imitation. He preserves Jackson’s signature style while enhancing it through the language of Broadway, creating a vocabulary that combines theatrical finesse with emotional and physical rigor. The result is choreography that feels both rooted in legacy and freshly alive. You’ll see the toe stand, the glove pop and, of course, the moonwalk. But you’ll also see ex

Perched atop The Aster in Hollywood, Lemon Grove manages the rare feat of being both in the thick of things and slightly above it all, literally and metaphorically. This rooftop restaurant and bar offers sweeping views of L.A. framed by tropical foliage and a curated crowd that somehow always looks like they just came from the set. The space is airy and elegant without trying too hard, ideal for those who like their brunch with a side of skyline or prefer their sunsets served with a signature cocktail. Whether you're plotting date night or simply trying to impress a visiting friend who thinks they’ve “done L.A.,” this is your power move. In the kitchen: Executive Chef Daniel Pfeifer-Kotz's menu celebrates California’s seasonal ingredients with global perspective. Translation: fresh, colorful and deeply considered, right down to the char on the wood-fired mains and the citrus-spiked cocktails that lean more inventive than obligatory. Lemon Grove also leans into L.A.'s creative energy, hosting rotating art shows and music programming that make dinner feel like part of a bigger scene. It’s an elevated experience with a cultural edge, minus the velvet rope energy. Brunch is relaxed. Dinner is polished. And golden hour? That’s when the whole thing hums. Reservations recommended. Open for weekend brunch, dinner and rooftop drinks. Book now Website: Lemon Grove Phone: 323-962-1717 Hours   Tuesday 5–10pm Wednesday 5–10pm Thursday 5–10pm Friday 5–11pm Saturday 10am–3pm,

Cooking directly over fire is undoubtedly one of the most powerful ways we can connect with the thousands of generations that came before us; it’s one of the few things we continue to do today that replicates a function that people were doing long before we came along. The power and celebration at the heart of “live-fire” cooking inspired Heritage Fire to once again traverse the nation to share the practice that brings together local restaurants, talented chefs and food lovers for an all-inclusive walk-around feast celebrating community and bold flavors. Select cities will collaborate with Whiskies of the World, a companion tasting event showcasing rare and award-winning expressions from around the globe. The 2025 Heritage Fire Tour kicks off in Austin on June 8, followed by Savannah (June 29), Asheville (July 13), San Diego (July 20), Snowmass (August 2), Napa (August 17), Willamette Valley (September 7), Atlanta (September 13), San Jose (September 28), Pebble Beach (November 1), Los Angeles (November 8), Charleston (November 16) and Miami (December 14). Each of the all-inclusive outdoor destinations features tastes from 18+ top local chefs who will compete for the title of their city’s Heritage Hero. In Austin, San Diego, Atlanta and all cities after, Heritage Fire will be paired with Whiskies of the World for Whiskey and Fire, a two-in-one event featuring chef demos, local purveyors, 50+ whiskey partners and a fusion of fire, flavor and fine spirits. Each of the all-inclus

A national calendar is coming soon! It's going to round up the best Time Out Connect events across the country, from low-key hangouts to lively dance nights. These gatherings are designed to help you meet new people without the awkward small talk. Whether you’ve just moved to a new city or just want to shake up your routine, this will be a great way to connect. Want to be the first to know when the full calendar goes live? Sign up for email updates and we’ll send the details straight to your inbox.

OFFICIAL RULES FOR Fanatics Fest and Time Out Sweepstakes (“Sweepstakes”)   THESE SWEEPSTAKES ARE ORGANISED BY… Time Out:(the Sponsor) Time Out America LLC 211 East 43rd Street, Suite 1901, New York, NY 10017, United States of America In association with:(the Prize Provider) Fanatics Events, LLC 95 MORTON STREET                                                           NEW YORK, NY 10014 WHAT’S THE PRIZE? There will be three (3) winners who will each win two (2) tickets to the Fanatics Festival for either Friday June 20th, Saturday June 21st or Sunday June 22nd (“Prize”). The Prize is approximately valued at USD $69.22. The winners will not be able to select date of attendance.    👉  There are a few additional conditions from the Prize Provider which apply to this Sweepstakes and the Prize:   The Prize can be redeemed only between Friday June 20th, Saturday June 21st or Sunday June 22nd between 10:00AM - 7:00PM  Entrants must be able to get to and from the prize collection point to collect the Prize: Jacob Javits Convention Center New York, NY Day passes will be selected at random Winner wil notl be able to select date of attendance   WHEN CAN I ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES? Start Date: 12:00 am [EST] on June 11th, 2025 End Date: 11:59 pm [EST] on June 16th, 2025 HOW DO I ENTER? Step 1: Follow timeout.usa on Instagram;  Step 2: Comment on the instagram post; and  Step 3: That’s it! Just make sure you complete the above steps  before the End Date.    👉 By uploadin

Yellow Door Taqueria is Boston’s idea of summer on repeat. The menu is built around tacos, each one detailed and colorful enough to stand on its own. Handmade tortillas are the foundation, soft but sturdy, and the fillings shift between vegetables, seafood and meat with equal attention to balance and flavor. Cauliflower with salsa macha hits the smoky side, fish tacos come dressed with avocado crema, and al pastor brings a sweet-savory punch. The plates arrive quickly, which suits the energy of the room. This is not a slow, drawn-out dinner. People are here to eat, drink and talk over music that leans loud enough to set the pace without drowning out conversation. Margaritas are strong, tequila lists are long and service is tuned to keep tables moving at a steady clip. Décor adds to the mood without pushing too hard. Patterned tile, neon signs and tropical details make the space feel more like a neighborhood party than a themed restaurant. Regulars show up in groups, often staying longer than they planned, while newcomers are drawn in by the look and end up staying for the food. Yellow Door works because it does not spread itself too thin. It knows tacos and cocktails are enough. The kitchen nails the former, the bar manages the latter and the overall effect is a restaurant that feels confident in its lane. PEPSI™ Special Yellow Door Taqueria's special Carne Asada Burrito features grilled steak marinated in PEPSI with black beans, bacon and onion jam, blistered peppers, haban

HCK brings Nashville‑style hot chicken to Fort Worth with no fuss and full flavor. The menu keeps focus: chicken sandwiches scored by heat level, loaded “phat wraps,” tenders and wings that are fried fresh, never underdone. It’s unapologetically about heat that builds alongside crisp texture. Light tipping: the Nashville model is intact. Each sandwich comes balanced with pickles, white bread or bun, enough heat to sting but built to be eaten. Sauces are clearly labeled; you know what you’re getting—an experience, not a guessing game. Extras like mac ‘n’ cheese, slaw, fries or spicy tots are low fuss, solid options. The setup is quick‑serve but feels more culinary than cafeteria. Order up front or scan QR codes, then grab a seat or takeout bag if heading home. The dining room is compact without feeling cramped, and walls are unapologetically branded with their motto and nods to hot chicken culture. Service feels practiced. Staff call out names and heat levels as though they’ve done it a thousand times. The kitchen backs that up, delivering sandwiches hot—spiced through the last bite—and fries crisp. What holds HCK together is consistency. If you want juicy chicken with rising heat and vinegar tang, every visit delivers. There's a confidence in repetition that’s hard to pull off without being overly slick. At HCK it lands as simple pleasure.

The Sour Boule builds its daily rhythm on sourdough breads, toasts, bagels and pastries that taste earnest, not overdesigned. Dough is fermented long enough for chew and tang to develop. Breakfast is solid. Bagel sandwiches—like the Bacon, Egg & Cheese or sausage version—land simple and hot. Sourdough slices with avocado or cheese—plus optional eggs or greens—flex between classic and creative. The bakery cases stack cinnamon buns, kouign-amann or daily sourdough specials that rotate. Sandwiches shine. The “Boule Royalty” stacks roast beef, onions and cheese. The “Sour Boule” sandwich layers chicken, slaw and tomato on sourdough. Other builds—like turkey-cranberry or bacon-spinach—show range without fluff. Sips stay thoughtful—pour-overs, chai, cold brew, fruity lattes or just good coffee. The space is clean, daylight bright through windows. Tables are small but sturdy; most people sit for a moment, not commit hours. What clicks is the clarity: whether you want morning coffee and pastry or an avocado toast mid-day, the kitchen has you covered. It’s not staging a moment. It’s serving bread as bread should be.  

Mabel’s brings West African cooking to Plano with clarity and depth. There is no attempt to simplify the menu—dishes like Egusi stew, goat pepper soup, jollof rice and plantain or yam porridge arrive with confidence. Flavors are assertive yet balanced, capturing the essence of Nigerian comfort food without any of the fluff. Starters like meat pies and akara set the tone: they are hearty, not fussy, and hint that this menu invites sharing. Jollof rice with chicken and fried plantains is a weekend standout; it's tomato-rich and brightly spiced. The Egusi, thick with melon seed, meat and greens, comes with your choice of swallow—either poundo yam, amala, semovita, eba or white rice—so you can eat with hands or utensils, your pick. Vegetarian and pescatarian diners will find options too. Efo Riro Royale includes leafy greens and your choice of meat or fish in a rich stew, while the fried yam and plantain combo is a skillful side that mixes sweet, soft, and savory. If you’ve had ado before—soft-swallowed meals—that work well when paired with small bowls of stews and sides, this is a place where that format thrives. Service never lets you forget you’re dining in a spot that values community. Plates land in the middle of the table. Portions are generous and prices are straightforward considering the cooking labor involved. The interior feels bright but grounded—textured walls, soft lighting, a sense of purpose without pretension. Mabel’s also works evenings with a bar and playlist

Tacos Y Mas at Arapaho is the definition of dependable street-taco service: fast line, clear menu, salsa bar with range, and a staff that knows how to keep orders moving. Breakfast starts early, then the menu shifts into an all-day rhythm of tacos, burritos, tortas, quesadillas, bowls, and combo platters. Prices are posted plainly and the portions make quick work of a lunch break or a late run. The Street Taco Platter is a good read on the kitchen: three tacos with rice and beans, built on soft corn tortillas and handed over as soon as they clear the flat-top. If you want something bigger, the Burrito Combo adds a crispy taco on the side. Birria shows up as a platter with consomé when you want a richer route. Signature tacos lean into house builds like pastor, barbacoa, bistec, pollo asado, and more. Seafood options rotate in with shrimp or fish, and there are breakfast tacos from open to close if you keep that schedule. Combos simplify decisions for groups, while a six-pack of street tacos is the office hero move when everyone is “fine with anything.” The salsa bar is part of the brand’s identity, with a range that moves from mild to dare-you heat, and the team encourages people to customize without slowing down the line. The room is casual and bright with quick-serve seating. Most orders are dine-and-dash or takeout, though you will see families park a tray and split a platter. Late on weekends, hours stretch well past dinner, which makes this location a reliable stop after

Richardson East runs the same playbook with a neighborhood feel. The menu covers street tacos, signature builds, crispy tacos, burritos, tortas, quesadillas, nachos, bowls, breakfast staples, and family-friendly combo platters. Ordering is simple: pick your format, pick your protein, add rice and beans if you want the full plate. The line moves quickly and the staff is comfortable answering first-timer questions without slowing things down. There is a proper salsa bar here too, so the mild crowd and the heat chasers both leave happy. Street tacos on corn tortillas are the core. Pastor, barbacoa, bistec, pollo, and carnitas rotate as steady sellers, while fish or shrimp fill the seafood lane. A six-pack of street tacos travels well and is the safe order for a group. Breakfast tacos start early and stick around through the day, which suits commuters and weekend errands. The enchilada platter is a sleeper option when you want a knife-and-fork plate without breaking stride. Portions are sensible for lunch and generous enough for dinner, and the price point fits repeat visits. The dining room keeps a low-stress pace. Tables turn often at lunch, then the room settles into a steady evening flow. Families show up for combo platters, solo diners finish a quick three-taco set and head out, and the takeout counter handles a constant stream of online orders. Staff keeps the salsa bar stocked and the queue moving during peak hours. If you want a basic roadmap, start with pastor or barbaco

SoDough Square in Orlando’s SODO district keeps its focus tight: Detroit-style pizza baked in steel pans until the edges crisp and caramelize. The dough is soft inside, crunchy at the edges, and every pie comes finished with sauce ladled on top. Pepperoni cups curl into flavor bombs, veggie mixes get the same respect, and the occasional specialty pie rotates in for variety. The space is casual but deliberate. Orders move quickly, pies come out hot, and the staff is practiced at keeping things flowing during the inevitable dinner rush. People show up in groups, but solo diners are just as common, eating slices at the counter before heading back out. Sides and salads provide balance, but pizza is the main event. Portions are generous enough that one pie can work for two if you are not ravenous, but most people order their own. The crust is what defines SoDough: airy, structured, and sturdy enough to hold the toppings without losing its bite. Regulars know the drill—show up hungry, grab a pie, adjust your toppings as needed, and finish with the last square that’s always a little more satisfying than you planned.