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The World’s Best Pasta Sauce
We all remember those monumental days in our lives—the birth of our children, our wedding, college graduation, and for me, most recently, the discovery of what in my opinion is quite simply the world’s best pasta sauce. Yes, this discovery was that profound. Now I know that taste is subjective, but as an internationally published food writer, cookbook author and someone with over 300 restaurant reviews under my belt, I like to think that I am somewhat of an expert. More>>>
Update on Robert Galinsky's 'The Bench'
Southern Hospitality from Preux & Proper
Preux & Proper restaurant in downtown Los Angeles has now been open about 3 ½ years and a recent visit to their new upstairs dining room confirmed that Southern Hospitality is alive and well in the City of Angels. Featuring dishes from across the south, the restaurant has two chefs, Joshua Kopel and SammyMonsour, and has the added advantage of being located in a historic turn of the century flatiron wedge building. More>>>
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The Bench: Star Power Both Behind and On Stage
With names like Chris Noth (Sex and the City, The Good Wife), Barry "Shabaka" Henley (Collateral, Better Call Saul, Jitney), Jay O. Sanders (JFK, Day After Tomorrow, Sneaky Pete), and Tony-Winning Broadway Producer Terry Schnuck, all working behind the scenes to bring a show to Off-Broadway, there has to be a lot of pressure on a comparably unknown performer. If it is pressure that makes diamonds, then Robert Galinsky is a 531 carat performer. More>>>
Ron Barceló Getting Fit for Summer
Summer body ready or not, Ron Barceló comes with no judgement with its Skinny take on the Mojito – Pretty Girl.
The almost-too-beautiful-to-drink cocktail mixes fresh watermelon juice, fresh lime, agave and Barceló Gran Platinum for a result that’s refreshing and light, allowing indulgence without the guilt.
Pretty Girl
Ingredients:
1.5 ounce Barceló Gran Platinum
1.5 ounce fresh watermelon juice
.25 ounce fresh lime
.25 ounce agave
2 basil leaves ripped
Method:
Shake and double strain over ice
Collins glass top with soda or cava
Garnish with basil leaf and Nasturtium or Orchid (any edible flower)
The almost-too-beautiful-to-drink cocktail mixes fresh watermelon juice, fresh lime, agave and Barceló Gran Platinum for a result that’s refreshing and light, allowing indulgence without the guilt.
Pretty Girl
Ingredients:
1.5 ounce Barceló Gran Platinum
1.5 ounce fresh watermelon juice
.25 ounce fresh lime
.25 ounce agave
2 basil leaves ripped
Method:
Shake and double strain over ice
Collins glass top with soda or cava
Garnish with basil leaf and Nasturtium or Orchid (any edible flower)
Crowe: The Drowned Armory - Digital Hollywood Conference 2017
In an exclusive interview at Digital Hollywood Conference 2017 with The Rogue Initiative's CEO Pete Blumel and Co-Founder Cathy Twigg, they spoke about the process of the new advances of virtual reality which combines traditional storytelling with innovative gameplay in a unique virtual world. They previewed clips of the New "Crowe: The Drowned Armory."
The interactive VR experience follows a starry-eyed tribal boy who becomes the key to saving his village from alien conquistadors when he inadvertently discovers a long forgotten technology hidden and abandoned by his ancestors a thousand years ago and will learn of his true significance along the way. More>>>
The interactive VR experience follows a starry-eyed tribal boy who becomes the key to saving his village from alien conquistadors when he inadvertently discovers a long forgotten technology hidden and abandoned by his ancestors a thousand years ago and will learn of his true significance along the way. More>>>
Philadelphia's Rescue Spa Has Plans for New York
“Ever since I can remember, I was taking care of people’s skin,” Danuta Mieloch, owner of Rescue Spa, tells me. “I was constantly searching for magic recipes to help my own skin, and help others with their skin, too. And I was always in my mother’s makeup bag.”
Moving from Central Europe to New York with her family in the 90’s, Danuta eventually made her way to Philadelphia, and opened Rescue Spa in 1994. The rigorous training she received in Europe prepared her well for her work as a skincare specialist and aesthetician. “I love what I do, and I really understand skin.” More>>>
Moving from Central Europe to New York with her family in the 90’s, Danuta eventually made her way to Philadelphia, and opened Rescue Spa in 1994. The rigorous training she received in Europe prepared her well for her work as a skincare specialist and aesthetician. “I love what I do, and I really understand skin.” More>>>
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Brazil Meets Japan in Manhattan's New Temakeria, Uma
Brought together by a shared passion for food and environmental sustainability, Chef Chris Jaeckle and Cynthia Kueppers opened UMA Temakeria. Located in the heart of Chelsea, this wonderful eatery has become a welcome addition to the city’s dining options. Combining the beauty and healthfulness of Japanese food, UMA is a delicious fast-food alternative. Brightly lit and appealing, with white floors and walls, and bright orange chairs, UMA has a modern and cheery feeling. More>>>
Andaz Hotels Announces New Locations with Fanfare
On October 4th, Andaz Hotels, Hyatt’s boutique brand, pulled off a fantastic fete at their 5th Avenue New York City location. Designed to introduce four new properties — Mayakoba (Mexico), Ottawa (Canada), Scottsdale (U.S.) and Delhi (India), it was a true multi-cultural extravaganza. More>>>
On the sun-drenched island of Capri, overlooking the gulf of Salerno, is the fabulous Villa Malaparte which was highlighted in Jean-Luc Godard’s 1963 film, “Contempt” and filmed on its famed rooftop patio. Francesco Carrozzini, the renowned film director and photographer, drew his inspiration from the Villa Malaparte, for the gorgeous program and private cocktail party for Fashion Week, combining art, design, music, and food, at the House of Peroni on the Bowery (a pop-up open from September 8-10). More>>>
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Mad. Sq. Eats Launches Its Fall Preview
Presented by Madison Square Park Conservancy and UrbanSpace, Mad. Sq. Eats brings together a wide array diverse flavors created amidst some of the city’s best restaurants and culinary entrepreneurs. Set up as a bi-annual event at Worth Square, a prime location in the heart of New York’s historic Flatiron District, some of the city’s hottest and most cutting-edge food vendors offer up their creations to the delight of many. This highly anticipated neighborhood staple draws hungry crowds of local residents, workers, and tourists who enjoy this unique opportunity to savor a wide array of offerings from buzz-worthy eateries. More>>>
EATALY - Home Of The Perfect Pasta Tre Pomodore
Pasta Spagettone Afeltra Di Gragnano Ai Tre Pomodore e Basilico, or Afetra Spaghetti Pasta with Three Tomatoes and Basil, is being cooked for us. Although it is made with relatively simple ingredients, any chef will tell you how difficult it is to get right. This signature dish has been exquisitely prepared, and we are enjoying it immensely. Executive Chef Riccardo Orfino hails from Padova, and was formerly a chef in Milan’s Il Luogo di Aimo Nadia, a 2-star Michelin restaurant. We are dining at Osteria Della Pace. With its relaxed and elegant atmosphere, it is one of several restaurants within Eataly. More>>>
Grabbing a Steak with Uncle Jack
Since November 1996, Uncle Jack's Steakhouse has been serving up a fantastic array of steakhouse fare to eager New Yorkers. Founder William Jack Degel has worked since that day to continually refine and perfect its operations and have received numerous awards and outstanding reviews in the process. More>>>
Manhattan House Offering American Style Gastropub Food
The Manhattan House restaurant in Manhattan Beach has slowly been picking up momentum since opening in July 2015 thanks to the sterling work of chef Diana Stavaridis. She is a former protégé of Neal Fraser, and although the place likes to bill itself as New York meets Manhattan Beach, there are plenty of other influences on tap here like North African and Southern style cooking. Nothing emphasizes that better then the sumptuous Fried Chicken ($18), which is Buttermilk fried and served with corn bread and chile honey butter. Almost all of the plates are perfect for sharing, prices are reasonable enough and the service is brisk and attentive. More>>>
Heating up New York at the 4th Annual NYC Hot Sauce Expo
Jimmy Carbone, owner of Jimmy’s No. 43, a restaurant in the East Village, is floating around the Brooklyn Expo Center in a pink jacket. He welcomes me, and greets me like an old friend. We are at the 4th Annual NYC Hot Sauce Expo, which took place April 23rd and 24th. Starting in 2012, Steve Seabury and Jimmy Carbone established the Expo, bringing together hot sauce makers from around the country and around the world. More>>>
Sun, Sand and the Search for Tropical Perfection - Discovering Mancora
Máncora is an idyllic small town and beach resort in the Piura Region of northwestern Peru. Located in the Talara Province, this heavenly community has it all for the seeker of unparalleled bohemian opulence and is the place to be seen along the Peruvian coast. Peru’s best beach stretches for several kilometers in the sunniest region of the country, while its bustling Main Street, which also happens to be the Pan American Highway, is rife with plenty of good seafood restaurants and international cuisine from which to choose. More>>>
Serenity at the end of the Great Ocean Road -- Logan’s Beach Spa Retreat
Oddball, a very special Maremma dog, is the star of the new movie of the same name set in Warrnambool, Victoria, three hours from Melbourne, along the Great Ocean Road. Helping save the endangered penguins on Middle Island, just off the mainland, this friendly dog has put the area into the national spotlight.
After visiting the Shipwreck Coast and exploring the rocky, dramatic coastline, treat yourself to a visit to Logan’s Beach Spa Retreat. Minutes from whale breeding grounds, the spa is located amongst acres of gently rolling hills. Of historical significance to the Australian Aboriginal community, there were many gatherings of clans in the area. More>>>
After visiting the Shipwreck Coast and exploring the rocky, dramatic coastline, treat yourself to a visit to Logan’s Beach Spa Retreat. Minutes from whale breeding grounds, the spa is located amongst acres of gently rolling hills. Of historical significance to the Australian Aboriginal community, there were many gatherings of clans in the area. More>>>
Secret Room Red Carpet Style and Beauty Lounge
The Secret Room Red Carpet Style and Beauty Lounge was buzzing this year at the private west-side hotel location as Hollywood's finest talent, nominees, producers and directors were gifted new and exciting products.
The Red Carpet Style and Beauty Lounge benefits the non-profit organization Omics LIVE; a non-profit student career exploration program which customizes live and remote internship experiences related to relevant fields and professions in fashion, entertainment, music, lifestyle journalism, e-commerce, website development, retail, product development, event & show production, graphic arts, communication and philanthropy.
This year guests were introduced to new exciting beauty products from Fake Bake, Dermesse and a local West Los Angeles dermatologist line of products More>>>
Chilean Wines on the Rise - Winemaker Rodrigo Soto embraces bio-dynamic farming
The perception of Chilean wines is that they are of the cheap and cheerful variety, so Chilean winemakers have been struggling with that image for at least 25 years. However that might be a situation gradually changing, and a lunch time meeting with winemaker Rodrigo Soto at AOC restaurant in West Hollywood recently gave me an insight into the future.
Soto actually spent some time in New Zealand learning his craft at the 1999 harvest at Wither Hills in Marlborough. He then moved on to California working with Ceago Vinegarden. Next he spent six years at Matetic Vineyards in the San Antonio region of Chile, building up the terroir driven Pinot Noir that is now so popular. In 2006 he returned to California as head winemaker at Benziger Family Winery, producing bio-dynamic single vineyard Pinot Noir’s. More>>>
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal at London's Mandarin Oriental
Fashionable Knightsbridge in London is the home of the swanky Mandarin Oriental Hotel and befitting such a location, Heston Blumenthal (HB) has his London showcase called ‘Dinner In the Hotel,’ and what a place it is, featuring British food from the past centuries done “Blumenthal” style. More>>>
Is Anejo Cantina & Grill in Sherman Oaks the Best in the Valley?
This is a huge new place in Sherman Oaks of over 11,000 square feet that has been open since August with a comprehensive menu featuring food from every region in Mexico. They also have an outdoor patio area with fire pits and a separate banqueting area that is fully soundproofed. This is a major operation that was formerly an Italian restaurant, whose portions are huge. However, getting information about the chef, or even meeting him, was a bit difficult, but I did discover that he is from Honduras, and his sous chef, from Mexico. More>>>
Silver Moon Bakery, A Neighborhood Staple
It’s November and New Yorkers are still flocking to sit outdoors at The Silver Moon Café and Bakery, located at the corner of 105th Street and Broadway. Owner, Judith Norell, hit a nerve in the community when she opened the café in November, 2000. It has become an integral part of life on the Upper West Side.
Drawing inspiration from her travels, historical literature, and art, Judith creates delicious breads, pastries, tarts, sandwiches, and much more. Passionate about what she does, Judith uses mostly wholesome ingredients. “We don’t use preservatives in our breads,” she explains. “We use butter, olive oil, whole wheat, rye, spelt, cornmeal, and all purpose flour.” More>>>
Drawing inspiration from her travels, historical literature, and art, Judith creates delicious breads, pastries, tarts, sandwiches, and much more. Passionate about what she does, Judith uses mostly wholesome ingredients. “We don’t use preservatives in our breads,” she explains. “We use butter, olive oil, whole wheat, rye, spelt, cornmeal, and all purpose flour.” More>>>
Amaro Lucano Italian Liqueur - A Nice Taste for the Holiday Season
We love Italian liqueurs and the latest one to come across our desk is Amaro Lucano, a drink dating back to 1894 in Pisticci from the founder Pasquale Vena. This versatile liqueur is available in all 50 states, and at a retail price of $29.99 Is a must for any home bar when you feel like creating a cocktail with a different taste sensation.
I started out with a simple lemonade/Amaro combination garnished with a lemon in a drink called Lucano & Gazzosa, and just loved the fresh taste of the drink which goes especially well with pasta. Amaro Lucano consists of about 30 herb varietals which are sourced from around the world, naturally dried, crushed and then placed in a hydro-alcoholic solution and left to macerate in an overnight steeping process. More>>>
I started out with a simple lemonade/Amaro combination garnished with a lemon in a drink called Lucano & Gazzosa, and just loved the fresh taste of the drink which goes especially well with pasta. Amaro Lucano consists of about 30 herb varietals which are sourced from around the world, naturally dried, crushed and then placed in a hydro-alcoholic solution and left to macerate in an overnight steeping process. More>>>
HobNob Wicked Red Blend - Limited Edition
Coined in the 18th century, the term HobNob refers to people drinking to one another, clinking glasses, rubbing elbows, and celebrating various moments and milestones. HobNob Wines capture this spirit with a collection of wines that are accessible, affordable and a great value. With a nice selection including Pinot Noir, Merlot, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Wicked Red, you will find something for every occasion. Be it paired with a great meal, or to stand on its own at a cocktail party, HobNob delivers!
Get your hands on one of their Limited Edition bottles of the Wicked Red for a great gift or a Halloween get together. www.hobnobwines.com
Get your hands on one of their Limited Edition bottles of the Wicked Red for a great gift or a Halloween get together. www.hobnobwines.com
A Taste of Ethiopia on Manhattan’s Upper West Side
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, AWASH, an Ethiopian restaurant on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, continues its tradition of offering flavorful and authentic food at affordable prices. The soft lighting gracing this space gives the atmosphere a hushed and homelike ambiance, while traditional Ethiopian music wafts through the air.
It was large portraits of the last four kings of Ethiopia adorning the walls that stood out as we started off with a glass of Enat T’eg, a sweet honey wine—a wonderful accompaniment to the bold and spicy food to come. For beer lovers, the T’ella, a dark beer made with whole wheat kernels and fermented barley also delivers a solid companion. More>>>
It was large portraits of the last four kings of Ethiopia adorning the walls that stood out as we started off with a glass of Enat T’eg, a sweet honey wine—a wonderful accompaniment to the bold and spicy food to come. For beer lovers, the T’ella, a dark beer made with whole wheat kernels and fermented barley also delivers a solid companion. More>>>
Wahlburgers—Quality Celebrity Eatery, or Overblown Hype?
My journey to Coney Island from my apartment in Manhattan was one filled with guarded skepticism as I headed to Wahlburgers, the family-born namesake restaurant of actors Mark and Donnie Wahlburg, and their less-known brother, Chef Paul Wahlburg.
Arriving to this iconic Brooklyn seaside community on what was a gorgeous September day was a great start. As we approached our destination, my first impression was that Wahlburgers rather boldly opened directly across the street from the world-famous Nathan’s Hot Dogs—a landmark restaurant that has been a staple of this area for many generations. It didn’t take long to realize that Wahlburgers seemingly would take a similar route. More>>>
Arriving to this iconic Brooklyn seaside community on what was a gorgeous September day was a great start. As we approached our destination, my first impression was that Wahlburgers rather boldly opened directly across the street from the world-famous Nathan’s Hot Dogs—a landmark restaurant that has been a staple of this area for many generations. It didn’t take long to realize that Wahlburgers seemingly would take a similar route. More>>>
Upper East Side's Nello Sparkles
Madison Avenue’s ultra-chic Nello restaurant is a celebrity-laden atmosphere of fine food and New York ambiance. This is clearly Manhattan’s answer to L.A.’s The Ivy when it comes to “the place to be seen,” but the albeit pricey menu, shines.
Fresh flowers enhance the brightly lit dining room that opens onto Madison Avenue and people watching is always world class. Consisting of an array of finely dressed individuals from all over the world, the scene at Nello is that of casual sophistication and one that speaks of quality. More>>>
Fresh flowers enhance the brightly lit dining room that opens onto Madison Avenue and people watching is always world class. Consisting of an array of finely dressed individuals from all over the world, the scene at Nello is that of casual sophistication and one that speaks of quality. More>>>
TBar Continues to Thrill!
TBar has turned into an Upper East Side staple for many a steak lover. Although perfectly charred, thick cuts of prime beef seem to be the choice of preference, this by no means is a one trick pony. From the Chicken Liver & Foie Gras Parfait, to the Salmon Ceviche, everything had one thing in common—beautifully fresh!
Originally opened as The Lenox Room, in 2007 its transformation into ints current iteration has proven the test of time and continues to delight its loyal patrons. The dinner menu, a mélange of high-quality steaks, grilled fish, salads and sides, is delivered with precision and a smile, making for a great experience. More>>>
Originally opened as The Lenox Room, in 2007 its transformation into ints current iteration has proven the test of time and continues to delight its loyal patrons. The dinner menu, a mélange of high-quality steaks, grilled fish, salads and sides, is delivered with precision and a smile, making for a great experience. More>>>
A Coffee Connector with a Cause
Galinsky (r) and Bloomberg Business Television's Jeffrey Hayzlett (l) presenting the keynote, "The Passion, Fashion and Wonder of Coffee" at the inaugural C-Suite Conference in Dallas Texas. (photo credit Maigen Sawyer)
Robert Galinsky has always had a lot to say and certainly doesn’t find it difficult to express himself these days. A true renaissance man, he has a voice that reaches thousands of people, both online and offline daily. He is the founder of a ground breaking social media company (Kuhoots.net) that serves successful clients like the founders of Barefoot Wine, and Bloomberg TV’s television personality and best selling business author, Jeffrey Hayzlett. His work coaching public speakers for TEDx Conferences is critically acclaimed and extends to coaching the Head Speakers at an array of TEDx events, as well as the New York Bar Association, incarcerated youths on Riker’s Island and C-level executives at Fortune 500 Companies like MetLife Insurance and Grey Advertising. More>>>
Lago Rocks Bellagio!
Lago by Julian Serrano has just opened up at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, serving small plate Italian dishes served with carefully crafted cocktails all under the watchful eye of Michelin starred chef Julian Serrano. It is a beautiful light and airy space, almost all white and silver in concept and it overlooks the Bellagio Lake and Fountains, a major tourist attraction in Las Vegas. The architecture is based on early 20th century Italian futurism which includes a stunning outside patio area. The entrance boasts a 1500 square foot mosaic of Milan. The dining room was designed by Munge Leung and features massive arched windows which helps to maximize views of the fountains. More>>>
Grimaldi Delivers Gourmet Pizza in El Segundo
El Segundo is the only California location for Grimaldi’s Coal Brick Oven Pizzeria, an upscale and fun pizza themed restaurant that has been doing some pretty solid business since its opening day. America’s love affair with pizza remains unabated, and if pizza is your thing and you have not tried the kid-friendly Grimaldi’s, then take the effort to see the place where they claim they have more celebrity sightings than some five-star restaurants—this probably includes visits by the El Segundo based superstars of the Lakers and Kings. Celebrities also highlight their menu which highlights a couple of them who famously love their pizza, but since the two mentioned are Frank Sinatra and Rudy Giuliani, they may consider gearing up for a younger and hipper crowd. More>>>
Gran Centenario's Search for Angels
On Monday May 4th, 2015 Gran Centenario, a tequila rich in history and Mexican heritage launched their Angels In Training program at Blue Plate Taco in Santa Monica. In the late afternoon, model angels gathered outside the patio of Blue Plate Taco for their eye catching announcement of their search to honor selfless Latinos within Los Angeles. At 5:30 pm, a golden angel came to life and blew her horn to summon an array of beautiful white angels, who handed out replicas of Mexico’s 1921 Centenario Gold Bullion Coin and shared details of the search for these Angels In Training with attendants and passersby.
On Cinco De Mayo, these angels will disperse into neighborhoods throughout “the City of Angels” in search of these AITs who will all be invited and honored at a private celeb hosted event at the Mondrian Hotel in Hollywood on Tuesday May 19th. More>>>
On Cinco De Mayo, these angels will disperse into neighborhoods throughout “the City of Angels” in search of these AITs who will all be invited and honored at a private celeb hosted event at the Mondrian Hotel in Hollywood on Tuesday May 19th. More>>>
Olukai Shoes Launch New Spring Line with Event at The Holding Co.
With the shoe business jumping right now, OLUKAI from Honolulu took advantage of the momentum and threw a big bash this week to launch their new line which ranges from the casual thong, to dress-up boots. The event was held at The Holding Co., a private underground facility in Silverlake that attracted the usual hip and trendy fashion crowd.
The new campaign is called Anywhere Aloha, and there are six people behind the brand—an explorer, an artist, a surfer and three non-Hawaiian’s, presumably businessmen. More>>>
The new campaign is called Anywhere Aloha, and there are six people behind the brand—an explorer, an artist, a surfer and three non-Hawaiian’s, presumably businessmen. More>>>
Village Prime Delivers
Photo Courtesy of ALP
Greenwich Village’s newest hotspot, Village Prime, is delivering contemporary American cuisine highlighting fresh seafood and prime steak. Twinges of a classic steakhouse fill the air, but the environment is clearly more downtown hip. The welcoming space is surrounded by walls adorned with unfinished wood and cow-hide, while leather banquette seating and wild flower arrangements give the restaurant a cozy, rustic feel which leads out to the garden seating area.
We started off with a couple of drinks from the creative cocktail menu. The Prime Collins (Hendricks gin, lime juice, fresh basil and cucumber) was a masterful creation and a kind pairing with the Tuna Tartare. The chefs use of yuzu in this dish elevated it significantly and made it rather memorable. Next we savored the Tomato Basil Burratta and the Maryland Lump Crab Cake (served with a micro green salad and bathed in a a citrus aioli)—classics done right. More>>>
We started off with a couple of drinks from the creative cocktail menu. The Prime Collins (Hendricks gin, lime juice, fresh basil and cucumber) was a masterful creation and a kind pairing with the Tuna Tartare. The chefs use of yuzu in this dish elevated it significantly and made it rather memorable. Next we savored the Tomato Basil Burratta and the Maryland Lump Crab Cake (served with a micro green salad and bathed in a a citrus aioli)—classics done right. More>>>
Asa Meza Opens in Hollywood Blending Asian and Latin Delights
ASA MEZA is a new spot in Hollywood just at the corner of Hollywood and Vine that boasts a stunning library style interior and an outdoor patio area that will become a big hit in the upcoming summer months. They opened up in early February and in the first month business was a bit spotty, but it is slowly picking up now that the word is getting out.
Head chef is Joey Lopez and his brigade includes Crudo Chef Rui Mateo and Pastry Chef
David Rodriguez. The head mixologist is Justin Kim who has created a signature list of cocktails mostly priced around $12 and focusing on the areas such as Chile, Venezuela, Mexico and Peru. There are eleven bottled beers all priced at $7 including Dark Truth Stout, Hopnosh IPA and Bitburger, and six beers on draft including Dos Equis, Kirin and Goose Island. More>>>
Head chef is Joey Lopez and his brigade includes Crudo Chef Rui Mateo and Pastry Chef
David Rodriguez. The head mixologist is Justin Kim who has created a signature list of cocktails mostly priced around $12 and focusing on the areas such as Chile, Venezuela, Mexico and Peru. There are eleven bottled beers all priced at $7 including Dark Truth Stout, Hopnosh IPA and Bitburger, and six beers on draft including Dos Equis, Kirin and Goose Island. More>>>
L.A.'s Cassel's Hamburger Joint at the Hotel Normandie - A Throwback to 1948
The Hotel Normandie in Koreatown is now host to Cassell’s Restaurant—a hamburger joint that has been around since 1948. It opened in this location in December 2014 and brings a touch of new to the Hotel Normandie (despite all of the old signs on the wall brought from the previous location). The atmosphere is very lively, albeit a bit noisy since the tables are very close together, but the staff couldn’t be more welcoming and I for one look forward to returning.
The menu is fairly simple and straightforward, and if you go for a simple hamburger or cheeseburger, you will be extremely satisfied. The beef comes from Aspen and yes, it is grass fed and is Angus chuck—and the buns from La Brea Bakery really nail it. More>>>
The menu is fairly simple and straightforward, and if you go for a simple hamburger or cheeseburger, you will be extremely satisfied. The beef comes from Aspen and yes, it is grass fed and is Angus chuck—and the buns from La Brea Bakery really nail it. More>>>
Wild About Wild!
Wild opened its doors in NYC in 2013, offering people quite simply the best pizza made with organic, gluten-free flours and tomato sauces, and hormone-free cheeses and meats. Fast forward to today and they now have three locations including Las Vegas and Williamsburg that share this memorable nom de plume and are leading the charge in an alternative, healthful eating style that sacrifices nothing and simply put, delivers a flavor-filled punch with every dish. It is no wonder that celebrities like Susan Sarandon, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kiefer Sutherland have crossed More>>>
Authentic Italian Food at Century City's Obica
Obica Italian Restaurant in Century City smacks with authenticity and I believe it wishes to be known as a Mozzarella destination. Of course the famous cheese is an important part of the mix, but with chef Simone Santpietro running the show, there is a lot more to stimulate the palate.
The Milan chef has been in America about six years and simply loves it here in Los Angeles. Since the restaurant is located right in a shopping mall, it is a perfect spot for a touch of pasta, or a light bite before or after shopping. There are wide array of pasta dishes including a few of them that are gluten free. Additionally, the risottos are quite noteworthy. Go for the Risotto Gamberie Asparagi ($20), Shrimp with asparagus or the lovely Prosecco Risotto that only a chef from Milan could come up with. More>>>
The Milan chef has been in America about six years and simply loves it here in Los Angeles. Since the restaurant is located right in a shopping mall, it is a perfect spot for a touch of pasta, or a light bite before or after shopping. There are wide array of pasta dishes including a few of them that are gluten free. Additionally, the risottos are quite noteworthy. Go for the Risotto Gamberie Asparagi ($20), Shrimp with asparagus or the lovely Prosecco Risotto that only a chef from Milan could come up with. More>>>
The Magic of Mugaritz
My travels have led me to some amazing dinner tables, but from the moment I sat down to dine at Mugaritz in Rentería, Guipúzcoa (Spain), I knew this was something completely unique. Hidden away from the main city, about a twenty minute drive through the beautiful scenery of San Sebastian, lays a restaurant like no other. The name means “the oak at the frontier.” More>>>
Lillet Debuts Its 2010 Reserve De Jean Lillet at Ace Hotel
Maison Lillet recently launched its Jean de Lillet 2010 Reserve at a trendy
Invitation only at the Ace Hotel in downtown Los Angeles and Metropolitan
Report was there to check it out. Brand ambassador Claire Needham was on hand mixing up the cocktails as a band were playing Hot Club De Paris music - Django Reinhart style to the fifty or so guests in attendance at the rooftop bar.
Lillet is a French liqueur that is produced in Podensac, France, and the history of the company dates back to 1872 when it was formed by wine merchants Paul and Raymond Lillet in Podensac, which is stuck right in the middle of Bordeaux wine country. More>>>
Invitation only at the Ace Hotel in downtown Los Angeles and Metropolitan
Report was there to check it out. Brand ambassador Claire Needham was on hand mixing up the cocktails as a band were playing Hot Club De Paris music - Django Reinhart style to the fifty or so guests in attendance at the rooftop bar.
Lillet is a French liqueur that is produced in Podensac, France, and the history of the company dates back to 1872 when it was formed by wine merchants Paul and Raymond Lillet in Podensac, which is stuck right in the middle of Bordeaux wine country. More>>>
Tequila Herradura Unveils Limited Edition Coleccion De La Casa
Metropolitan Report had feet on the ground in Mexico to be one of the first to taste the latest release from Tequila giant, Herradura. The tasting of the Coleccion De La Casa with a Scotch cask finish was held in the distillery’s Executive Tasting Room along with six other prominent spirit writers and the company’s Master Distiller, Teresa Lara and Master Taster, Ruben Aceve. More>>>
Lime Leaves and Bedbugs—Dinner and Theater on New York’s Upper West Side
Friday night’s adventure started off as a quest for fine food and a bit of off-Broadway entertainment and that’s exactly what we found! We jumped in a taxi and headed over to the west side on the recommendation from a friend to try an Indian-owned Thai restaurant named Lime Leaf. Upon entering this fresh-feeling, unassuming dining establishment, we were warmly greeted and seated for what turned out to be an exquisite meal. Owner Sudhir Bhat has assembled a staff of Thai food experts that help make Lime Leaf's cuisine some of the most delectable and authentic in the city. More>>>
Moonshine Hits the Mainstream
Moonshine has now been legal for about 4 ½ years and of the handful of companies selling it right now, Ole Smoky out of Gatlinburg, Tennessee seems to have the upper hand. About 750,000 cases are now being shipped annually in the USA, and the international market is about to open up as the perception of what moonshine is, becomes clearer. To simplify, it is essentially unaged whisky with the prime ingredient being Tennessee corn and the higher quality Indiana corn. The new deal with Southern Wine & Spirits takes their product into eleven new states which according to CEO John Cochran took about four months of intense negotiations to secure—California being the biggest market for Moonshine. More>>>
Perfect Skin Today - M2 Skin Care Products from Arizona
These days in order to get some kind of edge or marketing angle in this crowded field you have to have a secret or patented ingredient. In the case of M2 Products out of Scottsdale, Arizona, that ingredient is mandelic and malic alpha hydroxyl acids. These are called AHAs in the skin care trade which have the ability to resurface the skin, eliminate acne, soften wrinkles, and lighten scars and hyperpigmentation. They also kill bacteria, fight free radicals, exfoliate and soften the skin, tighten the pores, stimulate collagen and calm down redness.
To go into more specific details, Mandelic Acid absorbs and controls oils to prevent the occurrence of new blemishes and it also serves to stop irritation. Malic Acid happens to be a natural humectants, something that draws water out of the dermis into the epidermis, which in English means it hydrates without getting oily. More>>>
To go into more specific details, Mandelic Acid absorbs and controls oils to prevent the occurrence of new blemishes and it also serves to stop irritation. Malic Acid happens to be a natural humectants, something that draws water out of the dermis into the epidermis, which in English means it hydrates without getting oily. More>>>
Briggs & Riley Effectively Changed My Travel Experience
As a travel writer (a great gig if you can get it), the hardest part is the laborious task and the downside of travel, getting there! This seems to be a common denominator—something that everyone at one time or another has experienced. Packing, getting in and out of cabs, through the airport, not to mention immigration and customs, can be trying for even the most patient of people—which by the way, I am not! Never did I think that upgrading my luggage could have such a profound impact on this, the hardest part of travel.
There was quite a bit of thought that went into this decision, as there are innumerable choices. The clincher… their service center is located in the U.S. and will repair, or if necessary, replace any piece of luggage bearing their nom de plume. Broken zippers, damaged wheels, no problem—tremendously appealing and a dream come true for an avid traveler, or for that matter, anyone looking for quality. More>>>
There was quite a bit of thought that went into this decision, as there are innumerable choices. The clincher… their service center is located in the U.S. and will repair, or if necessary, replace any piece of luggage bearing their nom de plume. Broken zippers, damaged wheels, no problem—tremendously appealing and a dream come true for an avid traveler, or for that matter, anyone looking for quality. More>>>
