Missy Higgins, Hotel Cafe on Cahuenga

After watching the Huell Howser episode on Spam last week, I was ready to check out this year's annual spam competition at the LA County Fair on Wednesday night.

But I didn't.

Mostly because I couldn't seem to find a willing partner in crime to tag along with me. And traffic alone during rush hour made me think twice about my Spam plan. But in the end, there was someone else who got me more excited for that Wednesday night.

And her name was Missy Higgins.

She was performing that very same night in LA at the Hotel Cafe on Cahuenga. This musical venue was one that I've undoubtably passed a thousand times before but never noticed - something I love about the city. It's like... feeling like you've been let in on a huge secret that only a select few get a chance to know about. And I was in the "IN" crowd.

After a late night at work, it was nice to get out on the town. Thanks to my high school friend GT and cousin, we got there just in time to catch Brandi Shearer sing the last couple of songs in her set. With my Grey Goose tonic in hand, it was easy to get intoxicated by her deep soulful voice that oozed sexiness.

Next up was Missy. And as we waited for her to take the stage, I ordered the cafe's Chicken Quesadilla for about $8 with plenty of cheese goodness and meat. After two slices, I was happy and full.

With another GG tonic, I was ready for Missy. She brushed me with an "Excuse Me" as she made her way to the corner platform. That's how small and intimate the space was - that I got a chance to mix and mingle with her and her cadre of Australian friends. As she tuned the guitar, she flirted with her Hollywood audience with her friendly demeanor and carefree spirit as she shared with us that she's "been Hollywooding it up."

GT writes a great review of the night, and writes it best... "the audience is in love" with Missy Higgins. Her sweet, melodic voice is full of fun and passion. And as you listen to her voice, you soon forget about the small space and the few occupied chairs... you forget about how your feet in those cute black stiletto shoes hurt after standing for hours... and you forget about work is just a few hours away.

Missy Higgins in Los Angeles, definitely worth my Wednesday night and one who makes it so much fun finding the best of LA.

Hotel Cafe
street: 1623 1/2 n. cahuenga blvd | los angeles, ca 90028
web: www.hotelcafe.com