A Night as Queen in the Queen City

Monday, August 10, 2009

If there ever was a perfect night, my birthday was it. Kris kept his plans for the evening a secret until we arrived at our first destination -- Ratcliffe on the Green. A 5-star restaurant known for using fresh local ingredients for a farm-to-the-table approach to fine dining, head chef and Mark Hibbs was recently named a semifinalist for the national and prestigious "Best Chef" award by the James Beard Foundation, which is one of the top honors that a chef can receive in the United States. Our dining experience not only confirmed this but surpassed any expectation or reputation that preceded our dinner visit.

The restaurant was once a historic flower shop dating from the 20s.

The neon sign was the first of its kind in Charlotte.

Photo Source: PhotoCharlotte.com

The more than 100-year-old restaurant was decorated richly with realist still life paintings and the original Tiffany stained glass windows of Ratcliffe's Flower Shoppe, which has been a part of Charlotte's cityscape from the 1920s on. The romantic ambiance of the restaurant is intimate and warm, and the tall spiraling pillars that flank the dining area when coupled with the old-fashioned, over-sized glowing ceiling lights make the main room appear as though it's a stage ready for a performance that's been done time and again, so much so that it's been perfected and one can expect an evening that will impress them time and time again. And really that's exactly what this room is -- a center stage for a repertoire of course after course composed of only the freshest and finest ingredients which are cooked, seasoned and arranged just so for a symphony of tastes that are perfectly in harmony.

The ambiance of Ratcliffe on the Green is like an old dinner theatre

except the food is the star in this delectable performance.

Photo Source: Flickr

While entrees are available separately as a more economical option, I recommend taking the dive and splurging on the chef's tasting menu so that you're able to sample several different dishes. For our first course, I selected the scallops, which were cooked in a white wine beurre blanc sauce over sauteed spinach while Kris sampled a trio of mini crab cakes each served with a different sauce - pico de gallo, Korean BBQ and a creamy remolade. The sea scallops were tender and savory, pan seared to perfection, and the crab cakes were heavy on the crab and light on the bread for a pure taste complimented by the series of sauces.

When our main course arrived, we were really in heaven. We both decided upon the grilled lamp chops, which were served with a blueberry port reduction over wilted spinach and baby golden potatoes. Our dish was perfectly presented on plate and in flavor as the buttery spinach and potatoes complemented the tender lamb, which once again was cooked precisely to order.

After these two magical dishes disappeared before our eyes, a third soon arrived -- dessert. My crème brulee was simply phenomenal. The sweet creamy custard was slightly cool in contrast to the warm golden brown crackling layer of caramel above. Then, amazingly our waiter divulged the Ratcliffe secret for "world-famous crème brulee" to me -- using fresh eggs that are only one to two days old.

Kris' dessert somehow rivaled my selection, his Grand Marnier Souffle was full of spoonful after spoonful of a delicious and sweet, warm bread pudding-like dessert accompanied by a warm and rich sauce flavored with fine liquor. I simply don't think our taste buds will ever be the same.

Then, to top off the evening, as we exit the restaurant hand-in-hand, a horse and carriage are waiting to take us for a ride around the city. Kris and I had the night of our lives being escorted around town by Winston, our trusty steed, and Bridger, our driver and incredibly knowledgeable tour guide who filled us in on the history of Charlotte. He even took us for a ride through the Fourth Ward, the original residential district of the city, which has colonial style homes that date back to the 1800s. We were transported back in time by the sight of the beautiful historic homes, that is until you see the skyscrapers all aglow rising stories above this tucked away part of town that started it all.

Kris and I smile for the camera after an amazing ride around Charlotte

by horse and carriage!

Photo Source: Self

It simply was an unforgettable evening that will live on as a fond memory to cherish and someday far in the future share with children and grandchildren as the night Kris and I felt like king and queen of the Queen City.

A Toast to Taylor

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Wine tastings are always fun in my opinion, but one that I attended Tuesday night was especially sweet because the proceeds went to a cause that's near and dear to my heart. A Toast to Taylor raised money for Taylor's Tale, a Charlotte-based non-profit committed to raising awareness and funds to find a cure for Batten disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects children. In particular, Taylor's Tale was founded in honor of the now almost 11-year-old Taylor King who is fighting the disease.

Taylor really is an inspiration to all those around her. Even though Batten disease has robbed her of her vision among other things, she continues to participate in Girls on the Run, completing two recent 5Ks with the help of a running buddy (read a post by the founder of Girls on the Run about Taylor here). And she still dreams of growing up and becoming a fashion designer or pop singer - depending on what day of the week you happen to ask her.

Taylor and her sister, Laura, after Taylor finished the Jingle Jog 5K

in Charlotte this December.

Photo Source: Taylor's Tale

A Toast to Taylor is just one of many events that Taylor's Tale has put on in recent memory to fuel the fight against Batten disease with others including a group exercise class, a poolside BBQ and a springtime celebration. The planning of future fundraising events is in the works, so be sure to check the calendar of events on www.TaylorsTale.com soon! You could also become a fan of Taylor's Tale on Facebook or follow Taylor's sister's blog to find out about upcoming events and initiatives. Or, if you're interesting in supporting the charity financially, you can make a donation by clicking here. Cheers to the supporters of Taylor and Taylor's Tale!

Wine Tasting and Tapas Notes

Tuesday's wine tasting benefit was held at Las Ramblas, a delicious Spanish tapas bar in Charlotte. The five wines selected were a nice sampling with each of the blends carrying a very distinct and unique flavor. The line up was as follows:

1. Kenwood Pinot Gris

2. Angoves Viognier

3. Hess Chardonnay

4. Robertson Merlot

5. Natura Cabernet Sauvignon

My favorites were definitely the Pinot Gris and, above all, the Cabernet. The Cabernet tasted of chocolate and cherries; the wine had a very smooth, full-bodied flavor. It definitely would be great paired with a chocolate dessert. The Pinot Gris was lighter, carrying notes of tartness along with a citrus flavor. Even the Chardonnay was good; instead of the traditional oaky, buttery taste, it held hints of green apple, vanilla and peach.

Enjoying a Toast to Taylor with friends!

Photo Source: Self

As for the tapas, the Las Ramblas Sliders (skewered marinated lamb with a mint yogurt sauce) and the Crab Stuffed Picollo Peppers were standouts with the Queso de Cabra Frita, fried goat cheese with almonds, roasted garlic and quince honey, as another notable dish. The paella wasn't quite as good as I'd hoped, but the dessert more than made up for this shortcoming. Testing out my recent infatuation with Tres Leches Cake first experienced at the Jazz Corner in Hilton Head, the dessert passed the test a second time. The sweet, caramel soaked cake was too-good-to-be true although it could have done without the mile-high layer of icing. I also nibbled on a piece of Tosta de Chocolate, a tasty and unlikely pairing of chocolate, salt and baguette, which turned out to be quite good and disappeared right before our eyes!

The honey, almond and garlic sauce that accompanied

Queso de Cabra Frita added balance and gave the dish a unique flavor.

Photo Source: Self

Verdict: Las Ramblas has a fun, laid-back atmosphere that's perfect for post-work drinks and appetizers. While the food is an Americanized version of real Spanish tapas, the variety of options, and above all, the company make it well worth the while. Be sure to save room for dessert!

A Day in the Life of a CakeSpy Gumshoe

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

I'm excited to announce that I've joined a team of CakeSpy Gumshoes, a network of food writers and lovers of baked goodies and treats of all types who to seek out sweetness in every day life! My first CakeSpy post was on Amelie's French Bakery & Cafe, a sweet spot in the heart of NoDa in Charlotte that offers tempting desserts around the clock as a 24/7 bakery.

CakeSpy is a blog that has a great recipes, bakery reviews, and more!

It's pretty much guaranteed to add sweetness to your day.

Photo Source: CakeSpy

It seems that Charlotteans agree with me that Amelie's is a delicious and even divine experience, not to mention its chic decor. Amelie's is the recent winner of the "Best Dessert Award" at the 2009 Taste of Charlotte and has been recognized by the Charlotte Observer for offering one of food editor Kathleen Purvis' favorite Charlotte foods -- a salted caramel brownie (and yes it is as delicious and decadent as it sounds).

Antique furniture and cozy oversized armchairs are

a part of Amelie's fun environment that's a haven

for Charlotteans of all callings.

Photo Source: Self

I recommend dropping in at Amelie's whether to sample a croissant or colossal muffin for breakfast, a tartine or cup of hot soup for lunch or dinner or for a late-night pastry, fruit tart or torte. If you live in the SouthPark area, a Slice of Amelie's, a smaller albeit still delicious version of the beloved bakery, has opened in Cafe Monte Bistro near Phillips Place.

And as for CakeSpy, those with a sweet tooth should be sure to surf around their site as they offer a wealth of resources on bakeries across the country in addition to fun cupcake art and cartoons, delicious recipes and more! I myself have drooled over many a CakeSpy post, including the following Cookie Cake Pie recipe that I made recently for my fiance's birthday. It was a tasty and indulgent treat combining the best aspects of cookie, cake and pie!

Cookie Cake Pie is just one example of a creative and

delicious CakeSpy dessert!

Photo Source: CakeSpy

Here Comes the Bachelorette

Sunday, May 17, 2009

Bachelorette parties are one of those milestone celebrations in a woman's life. It's a time to remember and cherish; one last night out with the girl's before becoming a "Mrs."

But there are so many of the bachelorette cliches. From male strippers to penis paraphernalia, it truly is amazing what a Google search of "bachelorette party" will unearth. Is a pole dancing class my idea of a fun night out on the town? Do I really want strange men eating candy necklace pieces off of me or worse? Not so much. 

That's not to say I wouldn't mind throwing a few martinis back with my bestests, but I think there's a level of class that should be maintained, and I also think that some of the tired themes can be done away with or remade anew.

Throw a bachelorette party that's tasteful in more ways than one

with this super cute and colorful cake!

Source: Cake Central

Bachelorette Party, Prep School Style

For example, I stumbled across one creative and fun idea on the MyRecipes blog, a Bachelorette Bar Golf Classic. Suddenly that sweater vest you thought you'd never wear again may be a cute addition to an argyle ensemble. The bachelorette party featured on the post included a dinner of fish and chips complete with frosty mugs at an Irish pub followed by a night out on the town. 

This bride scored better than par when her friend threw a 

golf-themed bachelorette party for her!

Photo Source: MyRecipes.com Blog

Red Carpet Not Included

Is going to a bar not your idea of a fun night with the girls? What about a dinner and dessert crawl? Sample several restaurants by choosing one for appetizers, one for dinner (or more appetizers) and then another for dessert. You'll get to sample a range of tasty entrees all in one eclectic evening! Dress it up and ride in style with a stretch limosine as your transportation for the evening. Be sure to have a toast of bubbly to the bride-to-be en route! Give her a tiara to wear and she'll really feel like queen for the evening. 

This bubble-gum pink bachelorette crown by Gabriela Delworth 

is a fun royal accessory for the bride-to-be.

Photo Source: Gabriela Delworth

Get Away Before Going to the Chapel

Or, why not make a weekend of it? Round up your closest gal pals for a road trip to a fun destination. Whether you pack up and head to the beach for a weekend in the sun, the mountains for a camping and hiking wilderness trip or to the city for shopping and wining and dining. Or, if you and you're friends have money in the cash cow, hop a plane or train to a destination of your choice. If I suddenly hit the lottery tomorrow, I think the ladies and I would be headed to California for a weekend of wine country. 

For more road trip inspiration, check out Roadside America, a site that has a cross-country list of wild and wacky road side attractions that will make for an unforgettable weekend trip.

A destination is optional and a car full of friends is a must for 

a pre-wedding girls getaway!

Photo Source: www.RawStyle.com 

Jack and Jill: A Co-Ed Option

Many couples today are opting to do a "Jack and Jill" party over the more traditional and separate bachelor and bachelorette parties. Essentially the idea is that the wed-to-be couple invites friends and family to a joint party where members of both sexes are invited. Obviously the activities will need to be ones that satisfy the interests of both groups if you go this route, so don't plan to offer spa activities or a cigar tasting unless this is something that all of your friends like to do. A Jack and Jill party may be a money-saving option for some, and it's also a good solution if you and your future hubby have a small close group of the same friends who may want to celebrate together. Pick a fun theme like Greek gods and goddesses so that your friends can don old-school style togas with wreaths of leaves and enjoy wine and tasty Mediterranean finger food. The bride, of course, will enjoy being the celebrated Goddess of Love for the evening! 

Go Greek goddess Mama Mia-style for a fun party theme. 

Photo Source: About.com 

If you're still stumped, The Everything Bachelorette Party Book is like the Bible of bachelorette party planning, so it may be wise to invest in a copy if you anticipate being a repeat maid-of-honor or designated party planner. 

Or, to know what not to do, read The Bachelorette Party by Karen McCullah Lutz (co-author of the screenplay for How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days). It's a fun read of a seemingly tame bachelorette party gone wrong. Whether you're already hitched, getting married in 10 months or 10 years, it's a book that every girl will enjoy.

Ten Triangle Favorites

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

As promised here is a list of ten of my favorite Triangle-area restaurants! Being the foodie that I am, I've grazed in all parts of Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Cary, Apex and Morrisville during my time at UNC and before my college days when I lived in Cary.

While it was very hard to narrow the list down to the top ten since there really are so many great restaurants in the area. My list includes elegant to casual and everything in between. You'll see a bit of diversity in the types of food, and I'm a sushi-holic so I apologize if that's not your thing (I'm already lamenting the thought of not eating sushi for nine months while I'm pregnant and that is still many, many years away).

It's not in favorite to least-favorite order or anything like that; these all just are really great places to eat! Bon appetit!

Penang, Chapel Hill

With a combination of Thai and Malaysian cuisine, the menu at Penang is full of colorful and flavorful dishes including traditional curry and satay-based dishes along with a sushi bar. I recommend the Thai Pineapple Fried Rice, which is served hot in a halved pineapple or the Rendang, which is a delicious combination of cinnamon, cloves, lemongrass and coconut milk along with your choice of chicken or beef. 

The food at Penang ranges from spicy to sweet with options for 

vegetarians and meat lovers alike!

Photo Source: Self

Mediterranean Deli, Chapel Hill

A purveyor of Middle-Eastern and Greek cuisine, Mediterranean Deli, also known as "Med Deli" by the locals, is fresh and tasty. Order the sampler platter so that you can try two to four different dishes. Some of my favorites include tabouli, falafel, and hummus with pita bread. Now that I have a new found love for moussaka, I'll have to try that next! The Franklin Street deli also has an olive bar and fresh-baked desserts. 

Top of the Hill, Chapel Hill

Simply put, if you are a Chapel Hill-first timer, you have to have a meal at Top of the Hill. Known for their award-winning beer and elegant Southern cuisine, Top of the Hill or "Top O" is a great place to experience Chapel Hill nightlife or to enjoy the view overlooking the heart of Franklin Street. While the menu changes, one favorite is their Chicken Parmesan. Even if it's not on the menu, they'll make it for you with their heavenly Buttermilk Fried Chicken atop a heap of hot noodles and a sweet tomato sauce. If you're sampling their brews, I recommend the Old Well White.

Carrburritos, Carrboro

My fiance and I love many Mexican restaurants and burrito spots, but Carrburitos certainly has our hearts. The variety of tasty fresh salsas and the colorful upbeat atmosphere of the restaurant makes this place a standout. Tip: there is limited outdoor seating tucked away on the side of the building.

Weaver Street Market, Carrboro

This is a favorite breakfast spot for Kris and I. We love hitting up the hot breakfast bar on Sunday mornings, which includes favorites such as dill biscuits, eggs with peppers and corn tortillas and, my favorite, mediterranean strata. The laid-back atmosphere of eating at outdoor picnic tables is enjoyable, and often there is a musician or two playing the guitar, which can be nice. Beware that it's a popular place on the weekends and during nice weather, so it can be difficult but well worth it to find a seat. 

Breakfast Bar $5.99/lb

Hours: 7:30 - 10:30 a.m., Monday - Friday

Saturday, 8 a.m.- noon

Sunday, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

You won't ever find Weaver Street this empty on a Sunday morning 

during their brunch buffet!

Photo Source: Infrastructure of Milk Blog

Milltown, Carrboro

Milltown has delicious Belgian-style food and a variety of beer from around the world. The grilled chicken sandwich with gorgonzola cheese and grilled pear is my all-time favorite, and I'm always torn between pairing it with their salad, which is delicious and healthy or their skinny French fries, which are possibly more delicious but are certainly a calorie killer. Their grilled cheese with avocado and tomato (I've dubbed this dish "sexy grilled cheese") is also awesome. Milltown hands down has the best selection of beer in Carrboro with 100+ choices on their menu.

Shiki Sushi, Durham

As a self-appointed sushi connoisseur, I've eaten my way around quite a few sushi digs. Of all of those, Shiki Sushi is my all-time favorite. I would probably eat their daily if it wouldn't break my budget and if I still lived in the area. Their unique and ecclectic rolls such as the Sumo Roll with tuna, yellowtail, salmon, white fish, spicy mayo tempura top with mixed roes, crab stick, conch, sprinkle eel & cream sauce is fantastic. Shiki is the only place where I've ever had conch on sushi, and the sweet buttery meat is a fantastic addition. Other favorites include the Atlantic Lover, which has snow crab meat, cream cheese inside out with four kinds of fish and three kinds of roe on top and North Carolina Sunset, a roll with spicy tuna, salmon, cream cheese and spicy mayo inside out with flying fish roe. Tip: one of the best parts of eating at Shiki is that all sushi is buy one get one free - always.

518 West Italian Cafe, Raleigh

Three words on 518 West for you - delicious Italian food. A perfect date restaurant, 518 has great ambiance in addition to a wonderful menu. Notable entrees include The Crab, which is red pepper papardelle pasta tossed with a dill cream sauce and a saute of wild mushrooms, scallions and bacon topped with fresh crab meat and Lemon Linguine Pasta, which is a delicious combination of shrimp, scallops, roasted tomatoes, garlic and scallions in white wine with lobster butter sauce.

518 West Italian Cafe has ambiance, charm and decadently delicious Italian cuisine.

Photo Source: Technimo

Daniel's, Apex

A long-time family favorite, Daniel's is another great Italian restaurant in the area. While it's less romantic than 518 West, Daniel's is a restaurant that's good for a family outing or a date. Try out the Penne alla Vodka, which is pasta in a yummy pink vodka sauce. For dessert? Sample a slice of Oh, My God, Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie.

Sweet Tomatoes, Cary and Raleigh

While Sweet Tomatoes is a chain restaurant, I truly love this place! Named one of America's Healthiest Restaurants by Health Magazine, Sweet Tomatoes is famous for their healthy and affordable seasonal soups, salads, bakery delights and pastas. Some favorites are available year round, such as the Big Chunk Chicken Noodle, which is a yummy version of Chicken Noodle Soup that has big fat dumpling-like noodles. Tip: for dessert try the Chocolate Brownie Muffin with Vanilla Soft Serve for a healthy and delicious treat!

Wake Me Up Before You Go Go

Sunday, February 8, 2009

Is your morning meal routine in need of some color and flavor? With more than 20 tasty flavors and dozens more just waiting to be dreamed up by hungry customers, donuts from Fractured Prune may be just the fix you need. 

An assortment of delicious and colorful Fractured Prune donuts

Photo Source: Gazette.net

Blueberry Hill, Creamsicle, Strawberry Shortcake, French Toast, Reese Cup and Peppermint Patty are just a few of the fun and even outlandish flavors are true tastebud pleasers. These melt-in-your-mouth concoctions are custom-made treats so that they're served piping hot and freshly glazed just the way you like them. 

If you're feeling creative or are craving an item not on the menu, you can pick from the following glazes, toppings and sugars to make your own flavor:

Glazes

Honey, Banana, Chocolate, Maple, Strawberry, Raspberry, Peanut Butter, Mocha, Mint, Cherry, Lemon, Orange, Blueberry, Mixed Berry, Caramel

Toppings

Rainbow Sprinkles, Chocolate Jimmies, Coconut, Peanuts, Oreo® Cookie, Mini Chocolate Chips, Graham Cracker Crumbs

Sugars

Powdered, Granulated, Cinnamon Sugar

And in case you're wondering, Oreos are delicious on donuts! 

Fractured Prune also sells bagels, breakfast sandwiches and a decadent dessert known as "Hole in One," a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream served on the donut of your choice.

While the Raleigh store that I had previously been to recently closed it's doors, there are a number of other locations including one in Concord, NC.

A Treasure Map for Winos

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

If you're a wine lover (AKA wino), then it's time you meet Dr. Vino. Also known as Tyler Colman, Dr. Vino pretty much has the coolest job in the world; he teaches, talks about and tastes wine for a living. As a professor at NYU and the University of Chicago, he tastes about 2,000 wines a year (an average of almost 6 wines per day)!

But what makes Dr. Vino especially cool isn't just the fact that he's authored two books about wine and has been featured in the New York Times. What truly makes him fabulous in my opinion is that he shares his wealth of knowledge as a wine expert on his blog that's choc full of fabulous wine tips, featured picks and, to my particular delight, wine maps!

A treasure map for winos and travel enthusiasts alike, Dr. Vino's wine maps unlock a realm of delicious possibilities just waiting to be discovered! While the maps are made with Google Maps, don't be fooled by their seemingly simple appearance.

A Parisian Wine Map

Take note of the different colors for each destination. Red points of interest are favorite bars while purple ones are wine bars that also sell bottles to go. The green points of interest are new destinations that bear some attention while the blues are "tried-and-trues."

If you click on each of the dozens of pushpins featured on each wine map, the name and address will pop up in addition to colorful facts, Web sites and phone numbers. With major metropolises such as New York City, Chicago, Paris and LA currently featured on Dr. Vino's list of wine maps, I'm hopeful that this list will continue to grow! Until then, Dr. Vino has plenty of "study material" for me to peruse on his blog. 

Crazy for Cava

Monday, January 26, 2009

From my travel experiences, some of the best finds are often off the beaten path, tucked away like hidden diamonds in the rough. Such was the case with Can Paixano in Barcelona, Spain. Although unmarked from the street, this wild and locally-loved cava bar is easy to find if you let your ears lead the way. 

The scene inside Can Paixano is always bustling.

Known as "The Champagne Bar" (cava is Spanish for champagne), Can Paixano is a small, rustic bar decorated in true Spanish style with large dried ham hocks hanging from the ceiling and towers of cava stocked on the shelves along with other assorted ingredients and goods.   

Located in the old fisherman district near some of the city's most popular public beaches, Can Paixano is just a short distance from the Barceloneta metro stop. Plan to arrive early in the evening, as the bar tends to fill up by 7 p.m. leaving little room for standing, let alone squeezing your way to the counter to place your order. Being elbow-to-elbow with strangers in this rambunctious atmosphere is just half of the fun.  And the other half? Two words: cheap champagne. 

Can Paixano Cava comes in five varieties.

With the most expensive bottle ringing in at a little more than five euros, Can Paixano cava is easy on the wallet but not lacking in taste. Unlike many cheap American champagnes that can carry sickly sweet intonations, their cava is dry and delicious coming in several varieties to choose from including selecto (select), rosado (pink), cava extra (semi-dry), brut (dry) and brut nature (dry natural). 

Don't expect to buy by the glass either. Their cava is most-often sold by the bottle, and it's compulsory that you purchase two sandwiches with each bottle of cava that you order. My Spanish equivalent of a ham and cheese sandwich turned out to be quite tasty, although be forewarned their cheese selection includes a few fragrant ones, in case this isn't your preference. If you find yourself on a second bottle of cava, I recommend trying out one of their desserts. 

In other words of wisdom to be shared with all who intend to make an evening visit to Can Paixano, remember the following:

• Politeness doesn't pay. Be prepared to use elbows to make your way through the crowd to the prized counter spots near the bar. If you're able to snag this space, be prepared to fight to keep your spot. 

• Use the restroom before entering the bar.

• Stay close to whoever you're with so that you don't get separated in the mob. 

• There's probably an 80 percent chance you'll have to shout your order. Even if you only have a very basic knowledge of Spanish, you should be able to communicate your order (i.e., Necessito una botella cava selecto con dos bocadillos de jambon y camembert por favor.) If all else fails, just make a drinking motion and point to the cava (expect to be laughed at if it comes to this). 

• The Spanish word for toast is Salud! Quite literally this means "health" or drinking to your health.

• While Can Paixano closes at 10:30 p.m., plenty of beach bars and clubs are close by so you can continue your festivities unfettered. At 10 or 11 p.m., many people in the city are just finishing their dinner and are starting the night, which means that it's not uncommon for Spanish clubs to stay open until 5 a.m. or even 8 a.m. before partiers head home from the fiesta in hopes of catching a later siesta.

For Whom the Bellini Tolls

Thursday, January 8, 2009

If you ever want to spend a night feeling like royalty, just go to the Hemingway Bar. Tucked away inside Paris' exclusive Ritz Carlton, this gem was a highlight of mine and Kris's nightlife while in Paris. Although I wouldn't count out Sacra Couer or an evening stroll along the Seine, other musts if you're planning a trip to this French coup d'état, the Hemingway Bar is an unforgettable experience.

The Hemingway Bar, named for one of it's most famous patrons, is very quiet; you won't find any rowdy patrons here. Although the bar has a delicious and divine drink selection, be forewarned that these tasty treats don't come cheap. The bar is actually listed in the Guiness Book of World Records as the seller of the World's Most Expensive Commercially Sold Cocktail known as the Ritz Sidecar with a pricetag of $515. The drink is made with an 1834 Cognac that's so rare that German soldiers tried to steal it during WWII.

The Hemingway Bar is decorated like an old library filled with relics of the famed author. We were seated next to an old black typewriter, but his books, photos and other items were scattered throughout the bar. People watching was quite fun here because there truly was an interesting mix. Because of the small size of the bar and the intimacy that comes with that, it was quite easy to overhear other's conversations. 

While Colin Field, named World's Best Barman in 2001, mixes up drinks there today, the former Hemingway hangout has always had a history of making memorable cocktails. Take the Bloody Mary for example. The drink was created specially for Hemingway because his fourth wife, Mary Welsh, became very tired of him coming home smelling like whisky every night. The Ritz barman at the time mixed up a special tomato concoction for Hemingway that would disguise the smell of alcohol on his breath. The next time Hemingway saw his bar tending friend he commented that "Bloody Mary hadn't smelled a thing," and so the Bloody Mary was born. 

While I skipped out on the high-end Ritz Sidecar and the standard Bloody Mary, I settled for a smooth, luscious melontini. My drink was sweet nectar fit for the gods. It truly tasted as though I was drinking a deliciously ripe cantaloupe! Kris and I nursed our drinks while snacking on smoked almonds and delightful homemade potato crisps and just took in the scene around us. 

I would recommend dressing up if you decide to venture over to the Hemingway Bar. I donned a cocktail dress while Kris sported a sports jacket and tie. We dined in Champs Elysees before our after hours drinks, which I would recommend because of the close vicinity of this part of town that has some very nice restaurants along the strip. I recommend Chez Clement, which was a divine dining experience on all counts. The oysters from Brittany were unforgettable, and their crème brulee was the best I've ever had.

Another word of advice is to have a plan on how you'll be getting home in the evening. Kris and I stayed out until it was quite late, not realizing that the metro had already stopped running. While we eventually did find a cab driver who got us back safely, it's very difficult to get a night cab in Paris, particularly in Place de la Concorde. Our driver spoke very little English and we spoke very little French, so it was a bit of a challenge to communicate. Have a business card on hand with your hotel's address information to avoid any confusion if you are able to catch a cab home.

However you spend your evenings in Paris, Hemingway himself describes the way the city always stays with you, even after you leave it.

"If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast." 

Cheers, cherie! 

Spotlight on the Lantern

Monday, January 5, 2009

If you've tasted the divine Asian concoctions and drinks at Chapel Hill's elegant and eclectic restaurant, the Lantern, then you may have discovered a bit of nirvana on earth. Recognized by Gourmet Magazine as one of "America's Top 50 Restaurants," the Lantern is a local favorite that's a perfect choice for a romantic date or a night out with the girls. 

Using many local and organic ingredients, owner and chef Andrea Reusing creates her interpretation of Asia's best. With mouthwatering standout entrees like Coconut braised Niman Ranch pork shank with fresh galangal, crispy shallots, spicy green papaya salad and jasmine rice, the menu changes seasonally but always has a good variety of hot and spicy dishes to the more tame, yet always flavorful ones. A mix of seafood, meat-based and vegetarian cuinspirations typically dominate the nightly menu.

The Lantern's bar, tucked away at the back of the building, can be accessed by a side alley door after dining hours. While most might miss this windowless hole-in-the-wall, the bar is far more vibrant than the restaurant itself. While I'd liken the atmosphere of the restaurant to a soothing candle-lit sanctuary, the bar area is more along the lines of royalty in its décor and styling. The cozy one-room after-hours haven has an exclusive ambiance that's a far cry from many of Chapel Hill's smoky, undergraduate-dominated scenes. 

With delicious, funky cocktails such as Red Geisha, made of muddled fresh organic strawberries with lime, ginger and vodka or Yo La Mango, a mix of mango puree, lemongrass, sake and vodka, you'll fit in with the hip, posh crowd that dominates the night scene at this hot spot no matter what your drink selection may be. My personal favorite is the Junebug, a delicious blend of Pimm's, fresh ginger and lemon, soda and cucumber that is reminiscent of a London favorite with a citrusy fresh burst akin to a South Pacific breeze. 

                      The Junebug

Visit the restaurant's Web site for daily specials, one of Chef Reusing's famed recipes and a fortune. Visit the Lantern in person for an intimate dining experience or night out on the town. 

Getting into the Holiday "Spirit"

Monday, December 15, 2008

Are cookie trading parties a bit too tame for you? Why not try your mixing skills at a few of this delectable holiday drinks?

 

The Sweetest: Godiva Peppermint Martini

Meet your mate under the mistletoe after sipping on this minty treat!

 

1 1/2 oz. Godiva chocolate liqueur

1/2 oz. Peppermint liqueur

 

Stir over ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

Source: www.DrinksMixer.com

 

The Most Festive: Gingerbread Margaritas

Decide whether you'll be naughty or nice this Christmas while sipping on this drink is full of sugar and spice.

 

9 oz. Tequila

6 oz. Ginger liqueur

6 oz. Fresh lime juice

6 oz. Coconut cream

3 oz. Triple sec

6 oz. Sour mix

6 Maraschino cherries

 

Combine first six ingredients in a blender for one minute at medium speed. Pour into margarita glasses and garnish with a stemmed maraschino cherry. This recipe makes six drinks.

Source: "Holiday Cocktails" by Minka Gantenbein

Most Likely to Make You Melt: The Jack Frost

You won't tell this drink to "Hit the Road Jack".

 

12 oz. Whiskey

6 oz. Peppermint schnapps

1 1/2 oz. Sweet vermouth

6 Small candy canes or peppermint sticks

Ice

 

Combine first three ingredients in a large pitcher and mix well. Pour into cocktail glasses filled with ice and garnish with a small candy cane or peppermint stick. This recipe makes six drinks.

Source: "Holiday Cocktails" by Minka Gantenbein 

The Holiday Favorite: Eggnog

Love it or hate it, this holiday staple is here to stay.

 

Eggnog can be made a number of different ways but it has several key ingredients including  milk or cream, eggs, sugar, nutmeg and  a type of liquor, typically either rum or whiskey. ThatsTheSpirit.com has almost a dozen different variations, but best of all is their tip for serving eggnog at parties.

 

"To keep the eggnog cold, place a pint of vanilla ice cream in the punch bowl. It will melt slowly and we haven't heard anyone complain about the flavor."

-ThatsTheSpirit.com

 

Most Unique: The Grinch

Now here's a drink that gives even the Grinch something to smile about.

 

2 oz. Midori

1/2 oz. Fresh lemon juice

1 tsp. Sugar syrup

 

Mix all ingredients with ice in a shaker. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a red cherry.

Source: ThatsTheSpirit.com