Uncommon Shopping and Dining in Calabasas

The Commons Shopping Complex in Calabasas is anything but common. From the beautifully designed outdoor landscape, complete with Tuscan style statuary and fountains, to the largest Rolex clock in the world situated in the bell tower at the center of the complex. This is one mall that throws out all the conventional wisdom about what a mall should be.

Built in the late nineties by Caruso Development, the mall faced an uphill battle from anti-growth groups in the small, yet environmentally conscious Los Angeles suburb of Calabasas. The city is situated in a physically pristine pocket twenty miles north of downtown Los Angeles, and is also known as one of the first municipalities in the nation to ban all smoking outdoors. With close proximity to all the wonders of LA, yet isolated from the drawbacks, Calabasas is an upscale town with plenty of open space mingling with stunning mansions behind gates. All that was missing was a shopping and dining area for the locals.

Developer, Rick Caruso had a different plan for the Calabasas shopping complex. Gone were the days of the big box stores and enclosed Galleria style malls. This upscale mall utilizes the outdoor space as part of the experience, hence the fountains, gardens and fish ponds dotted along the landscape. The Commons is based on the mixed use theory, which allows for the combination of businesses. Along with the gourmet dining and designer shopping, there is also a supermarket, a dry cleaner and a pharmacy. This combination has worked wonders and the Commons is the hot spot not only in Calabasas, but in the entire western San Fernando Valley.

The anchor restaurant in the area is Kings Fish Market. A rousing, cavernous structure, it is most always packed. Reservations are taken only for large parties, but alas, when you give your name to the host you will be given a pager to alert you when your table is ready. This gives you more time to wander the pathways of the Commons and peek in the shops. It's a win-win situation. Once you've been seated, the fresh fish specials are usually the best way to go. Seafood isn't the only delight on the menu however. The restaurant has wonderful steaks, salads and pasta dishes. On temperate nights, sit on the patio and enjoy the charming water features and walking paths outside the restaurant.

If you're not in the mood for seafood, don't despair. The Commons also features a variety of restaurants, both fast food and elegant sit down. The Corner Bakery, for breakfast and delightful pastry. The cinnamon coffee cake is mouth watering and is sold by the slice or entire cake. The Marmalade Café, for tried and true delicious home cooked style food has a superb roasted lemon chicken entrée. Don't forget MiPiace, a truly sublime, Italian restaurant with subdued décor, and an incredible wine menu.

Don't feel like schlepping the kids to a fancy dinner? That's okay, as the The Commons is also a great family destination for dinner and entertainment. With plenty of great food at a good price, the kid friendly restaurants include Johnny Rockets, La Salsa, and Pick up Stix. Kids will enjoy the outdoor pond complete with Koi fish and turtles swimming happily in this faux natural habitat. There are always plenty of events for kids scheduled through out the year, especially during the holidiays, when the annual lighting of the Menorah during the eight days of Hannuakah sets off the season. The twenty foot Christmas tree in the middle of a large square is the highlight of the mall's holiday events. The Commons also boasts The Palace Cinema, which is modeled after those grand old theaters of yesteryear, with mosaic floors, vaulted ceilings and roomy seats. Behind the old style façade however are six theaters playing first run movies with state of the art equipment for a great movie experience

There is a little something for everyone at the Commons, so if you're thinking of doing a lunch with girlfriends, consider Calabasas. Start your lunch a Damian and Pythias, a delicious blend of healthy salads, pastas and pastries, where you can eat inside or outdoors on the rose garden courtyard. There is great people watching as well. After lunch, step inside the fabulous Polacheck Jewelers and pick out your holiday gift to yourself. Beautiful jewelry and watches abound at this opulent store.

Next stroll over to the Beauty Collection, an incredible shop, similar to Sephora, where you are able to test the cache of beauty products before you buy. Ask for a consultant to do your make-up and walk out of the store looking fabulous! You'll want to look great as you checkout the next shop, Belle Grey, owned by celebrity Lisa Rinna. Lisa's store is stock full of the latest fashions, beautiful cocktail dresses along with everyday wear, Lisa's taste is impeccable and it shows in her collection of clothes at Belle Grey. Other outstanding clothing stores include, m.Frederick for Women and Men, Chicos, Black and White, Gary's Island Store and Theodore.

Last but not least, pop over to Barnes and Noble order a latte, sit back and catch up on your reading and relaxing. This Barnes and Noble is a great place to unwind and meet friends, listen to music and have a cup of coffee and desert. Students, moms with babies and couples hang out at the Starbucks café all while enjoying the best of the Commons at Calabasas.

The above destinations are only highlights and there is so much more to do at this little pocket of luxury in Calabasas. Take your time and enjoy this lovely shopping enclave with family and friends. You'll be glad you did and you'll keep coming back for more.

The Commons is located at 4799 Commons Way, Calabasas, California

For more information log on to www.shopthecommons.com