What's Hot Now... |
|
From Grove to Table: Ariston Specialties’ Passion for Perfection
Monkey 47 Gin Making a Splash!
Monkey 47 gin is a unique and complex gin that has gained a reputation as one of the best gins on the market. Produced in the Black Forest region of Germany, this gin is made using 47 different botanicals, which gives it a distinct and unparalleled flavor profile. More>>>
World-Class Elegance at Connecticut's Mayflower Inn
The Mayflower Inn in Connecticut is a luxurious five-star resort that offers guests a truly memorable and relaxing experience. Located in the quaint town of Washington, the inn is set on 58 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and is surrounded by the picturesque Litchfield Hills.
Upon arriving at the inn, guests are greeted with a warm welcome and are immediately struck by the grandeur of the property. The main building is a stunning Georgian mansion that was built in the 1920s and has been impeccably restored to its former glory. The inn also has a number of charming cottages and suites that are scattered throughout the property, offering guests a sense of privacy and seclusion. More>>>
Upon arriving at the inn, guests are greeted with a warm welcome and are immediately struck by the grandeur of the property. The main building is a stunning Georgian mansion that was built in the 1920s and has been impeccably restored to its former glory. The inn also has a number of charming cottages and suites that are scattered throughout the property, offering guests a sense of privacy and seclusion. More>>>
September in West Haven brought restaurant newcomer Moby Dick’s onto the scene. Situated in the heart of downtown at 560 Campbell Avenue, they are breathing life into an area that has been begging for some fresh blood. The 630-square-foot bistro-style eatery has been updated with some thoughtful additions bringing a more cosmopolitan vibe. More>>>
Baccarat's Le Jardin Sparkles in Midtown
Since 1764, Baccarat has been making the world’s finest crystal. Receiving its first royal commission in 1823 began a significant demand by global elites and heads of state throughout the world. Their commitment to superlative quality has remained firmly intact for centuries, so it should be no surprise that their signature hotel just six blocks south of Central Park features a new, beautifully elegant, outdoor dining spot. More>>>
Gray Whale Gin and their love for the Pacific Ocean
Gray Whale is a premium California gin that is based only on only six botanicals—less than a lot of gins on the market and their progress in a short six years has been substantial. The smartly packaged gin is now number five on the market in the premium gin division, and the smooth taste coming out of their distillery in Sonoma, California is a product of hard work and foresight.
Even better, they give 1% of their gross receipts to Marine Biology research, focusing on legislation to remove the pervasive netting that happens on the USA coastlines affecting whales who get caught up in it. Since gin is all about the botanicals, we have to start with the juniper berries that can be found on trees in the Big Sur area of the rugged California coast line. The limes are grown in Temecula and are hand zested before distillation and the fir is wild foraged in Sonoma with a cool pine coastal quality that gives the gin its light and fresh appeal. More>>>
Even better, they give 1% of their gross receipts to Marine Biology research, focusing on legislation to remove the pervasive netting that happens on the USA coastlines affecting whales who get caught up in it. Since gin is all about the botanicals, we have to start with the juniper berries that can be found on trees in the Big Sur area of the rugged California coast line. The limes are grown in Temecula and are hand zested before distillation and the fir is wild foraged in Sonoma with a cool pine coastal quality that gives the gin its light and fresh appeal. More>>>
The Majesty of Southern Africa's Wilderness
Exploring the World's Finest Safari Camps
The high sand dunes on the northern tip of Namibia give an awe-inspiring view of Angola’s majestic Serra Cafema mountain range. This is one of those moments that you remember forever — one that creates an entire body smile that seems to last for weeks. It was here that my exploration of Southern Africa’s top safari camps began. More>>>
Razing the Suitcase
Now available in 25 countries, Rollink suitcases are quite literally squashing the competition. Collapsibility is the key, as all Rollink suitcases fold flat to a mere 2’’ thick. This provides the magical ability to slide it right into a clothing drawer, onto a pantry shelf, or using its unique design, hang it in a coat closet. This is a dream come true for city-based apartment dwellers who protect storage space with a voracity that only those in the know can More>>>
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 Sammy Monsour, and has the added advantage of being located in a historic turn of the century flatiron wedge building. More>>>
Number 5 Restaurant
A Shining Beacon in the Triple Cities
It was 1897 when Fire Station Number 5 was completed. The rear portion of the building housed the horses used in pulling the fire wagons and the front was for the firefighters. For 75 years they bravely and faithfully served the South Side of Binghamton, New York, but in the early 70′s, Engine House Number 5 was purchased at auction by an Ithaca developer. More>>>
The World’s Best Pasta Sauce
We all 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, award-winning cookbook author and someone with over 300 restaurant reviews under my belt, I like to think that I am somewhat of an expert. More>>>
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)
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)
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>>>
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>>>
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.
While traveling in Rio De Janiero, Cynthia was struck by the high quality temaki she found on the glamorous beachfronts of Leblom and Ipanema (for the uninitiated, temaki are hand-rolled cones filled with sushi and vegetables). Meanwhile, Chef Chris worked with Danny Meyer at Eleven Madison Park, and with Michael White at the Three-Star rated Ai Fiori. Chris’s work at Morimoto, a Japanese restaurant, was hugely inspirational in his decision to open a temaki shop. More>>>
While traveling in Rio De Janiero, Cynthia was struck by the high quality temaki she found on the glamorous beachfronts of Leblom and Ipanema (for the uninitiated, temaki are hand-rolled cones filled with sushi and vegetables). Meanwhile, Chef Chris worked with Danny Meyer at Eleven Madison Park, and with Michael White at the Three-Star rated Ai Fiori. Chris’s work at Morimoto, a Japanese restaurant, was hugely inspirational in his decision to open a temaki shop. 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>>>
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>>>
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>>>
Village Prime Delivers
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 event 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>>>
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>>>
