Fabulous Drinks

Sipping Santa Monica - Areal

2012-05-26T14:38:00.001-05:00

I knew from the moment we sat down that this place was going to be special because of the bowls of fresh fruit greeting us at the bar. We had passed by it several times and loved the look of the airy, open courtyard (Areal actually means space) and thought this is the perfect setting for an upscale Sunday brunch. When I caught wind that they had a daily happy hour, we were in! How else I am going to learn this town and report back on fabulousness? The happy hour menu, offered daily from 4 -7 pm, features craft cocktails ($6), Wine and Bubbles ($6) including a buttery Chardonnay from Chateau St Jean, interesting beers including a Hefeweizen from Franziskaner and a German Pilsner from North Coast Brewing Co. ($4) and small bites ($2-$4). We were in good hands with Luke Wederbrook, Spirit and Bar Operations Specialist. I selected an Original Daiquiri (note, this is not the cheesy, frozen variety found at pool bars, not that there's anything wrong with those), it simply contained white rum, fresh lime juice and a touch of sweetener served up, martini-style. My partner in crime thoroughly enjoyed his Old Fashioned, made with Bulleit Bourbon, sugar, bitters, orange and a lemon twist. He was impressed with the high-quality bourbon selection and the oversized cube of ice made in house. Another sign of a good bar is the different varieties of ice cubes used to make a drink. For instance, in a bourbon cocktail, you want the cube to be large enough so that it melts slowly and doesn't water down the drink. We snacked on Grilled Octopus served on mashed chickpeas with roasted garlic, mint and harissa ( a hot chili sauce). The cocktails, atmosphere and service were fabulous!

A Fabulous Find - Santa Barbara's Urban Wine Trail

2012-05-23T13:41:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite things about California (other than the weather) is the wine country and exploring the coast. I was more than pleasantly surprised to find out we could do both with Santa Barbara's Urban Wine Trail, a collection of a dozen wineries meant to be explored on foot in the heart of Santa Barbara. A scenic 90 mile ride up the PCH led us right into downtown. We started our day at Carr Winery with the lovely hostess Helena. Carr just received its CCOF Organic Certification. Stars of the show included, well all of them, but in particular, the Pinot Noirs and Sangiovese. We started with the Three Vineyards, pictured on the left, and proceeded onto The Kessler-Haak (pictured on the right), which had a little bit more body. Winemaker, Ryan Carr, briefly jumped behind the bar, he was young, unassuming and extremely humble.

We overheard Carr say the Sangiovese was his favorite and with reason. It had a beautiful nose, was fruit forward and had a medium body, perfect for sipping on its own or with food pairing.

Just next door we discovered the Telegraph Brewing Company, which brews award-winning beers right there in that tiny garage-looking space. Their Petit Obscura won a gold medal at the 2012 World Beer Cup. A beer tasting to break up the wines can be a pleasant pause for the guys (and gals, if you wish).

Next up was Jaffurs, a winery that produces Rhone-style wines right there in an unassuming space equipped with a tasting room tucked inside a neighborhood. Our host, Roger, was very welcoming and informative. This winery is known for their Syrah and we agreed, it is special, so much so we became winery members. It was soft and gentle with a fruit forward start and a subtle peppery finish. From there we checked into the Hotel Indigo, a new boutique hotel chain that just set up shop on State Street within walking distance to everything. Hotel Indigo offers affordable and quaint accommodations and they do their part part to be green, an added bonus! They provide just the right amount of small, little luxuries to make one feel comfortable, but is not over-the-top luxurious, i.e. the bed and pillows could be slightly more comfortable. We grabbed a quick bite around the corner (the name is escaping my mind, blame it on the wine and I could not resist a glass with lunch and selected a lovely Chardonnay from Santa Barbara Winery, which was our next stop on the trail).

We passed by a few other wineries on the way (you can't do it all, well, you can, but that balance thing comes into play), and were drawn to the lovely patio adorned with blue umbrellas. I already knew I liked the oaky, full-bodied, buttery Chardonnay and the place was buzzing. They are also known as the oldest in the county (it started in 1962) and their Reserve Chardonnay, pictured above, won two international and one consumer awards with reason!

Next up was a stop inside the most fun and lively winery on the trail, Municipal Winemakers, where Dave Potter is responsible for creating awesomeness. In fact, everything about this winery exudes awesome, including the name of their wine club, called Club Awesome! His lovely and talented wife creates the fun and artistic labels. Come here for the wine, vibe and good times, it's awesome!

Last on our stop was Au Bon Climat. Okay, full disclosure, we popped in here on day two, we were responsible (always) and stayed another night. I had already fallen in love with Au Bon Climat's Pinot Noir and wanted to taste their Chardonnay and other creations from winemaker Jim Clendenen. It was during this tasting that we became Pinot Gris fans. The Hildegard, pictured on the left, is 73% Pinot Gris. We found this full-bodied white a lovely alternative to Chardonnay, it had the same roundness of a Chardonnay, but with a welcoming crispness. Pictured on the right is another find from Clendenen, this is a second label reserve, I know sounds like an oxymoron, second label and reserve. This was a standout Syrah with a subtle peppery finish. These two finds were coming home with us! We must make our way back to the area, for one, to pick up our shipment of Jaffurs and to hit the other wineries on the trail, including Whitcraft Winery, which we heard is another standout. Thank you Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail, you were fabulous!

Sipping Santa Monica - Brick+Mortar

2012-05-17T15:10:00.000-05:00

Photo courtesy of Brick + Mortar

And so the Sipping Santa Monica series continues. Although, this post is more about what I am learning about this fine, new place I am calling home. Above is a picture of the bar at Brick + Mortar, where bartender, Casey, has taught me a lesson or two about Santa Monica, a.k.a. the Westside. Before I get to that Brick + Mortar is a new venture from the folks behind Brosephs Restaurant Group started by "brosephs" (a Hawaiian term meaning brothers) Justin Safier and Travis Lester. They call it a gastropub, I call it fabulous. It is a true gastropub in the sense of the word, a place that serves high-end beer and food without pretension. The menu offerings here are abundant and wide ranging from tuna tartare and brussels sprouts to gourmet pizzas, burgers and fries and salmon served with lentils and kale. A large selection of craft beers, an extensive wine list and innovative cocktails are available. Ok, now back to my lessons learned about Santa Monica. If you live west, you stay west of Lincoln Blvd, a term called AWOL, meaning anything west of Lincoln. The second lesson is to be considered a local you call it Los Angeles, not LA. For the third, I need to go back and visit Casey and sample some more of those fabulous eats and drinks.

Sipping Santa Monica - Chez Jay

2012-05-07T18:57:00.000-05:00

That's the name of this series and my new column (I am willing this to happen) or at least the way I am finding my way around this town. It is also being done on foot and bike via the Marvin Braude Bike Path, and with trips to Trader Joe's for some essentials and fabulously priced California wines. Chez Jay was on the list for sure, when I heard Frank Sinatra had eaten there and they had happy hour, I was on board. I also heard it was fighting for its place within the new Palisades Garden Walk Park under construction in a news story in the Santa Monica Daily Press. So off we were to this local, old school landmark. It has been known as a celebrity dive and that it was. I guess I was expecting old-style glamour. While it was not glamourous, the calamari steak offered on happy hour was to die for, the happy hour wine, not so much. Will I be back to Chez Jay? Quite possibly, but in the meantime follow along as I sip my way through all (ok, most of) the places Santa Monica has to offer.

A Fabulous Drink at The Lobster in Santa Monica

2012-04-24T22:17:00.000-05:00

For some reason I love to call this place the lobstahh (with a weird almost old man New York accent - can you hear it?) and please know I would not steer you wrong. Full disclosure, this is at the tip of the Pier that being said it is not a tourist trap, I swear, and they have an awesome happy hour that you need to know about. Yes, the drinks are old school, but they are really good, a la my Fire and Ice, their take on a cosmo with freshly muddled jalapenos - that is not a sugared rim, it is an illusion - ha, I told you it was old school). The food items were stellar too, we dined on the PEI mussels and the couple next to us (obliviously locals) chose the sliders, truffle fries and the lobster roll, yum! Don't be dissuaded by the location and get to The Lobster soon, it's fabulous!

A Fabulous (and bittersweet) Farewell to Austin

2012-04-24T16:44:00.000-05:00

Photo Credit: Flickr Creative Commons User Juice Stains

Austin, this is my fabulous, yet bittersweet farewell. You have been very good to me and I will always hold a special place in my heart for you. I still remember the ribbon cutting of the landmark Whole Foods Market, my "kitchen" and home and away from home. Four Seasons Hotel Austin, you too, have been very good to me. At my six years there, I have met world-class colleagues and have made invaluable friendships. I am so grateful to my dear friends whom I have met over the years, each and everyone of you are so dear to me and hold a special place in my heart. To the trail, Lady Bird Lake, I have spent countless hours logging miles on you. You have been my medicine and my serenity. There is so much more to mention, but I will keep this brief as goodbyes are never easy, so for now let's just say I'll see you soon. For now, farewell, I promise to be back often. Keep following here for my fabulous West Coast finds and my travels along the way. And most importantly, stay fabulous!

My Favorite Fabulous Way to "Wine" Down the Weekend with House Wine

2012-04-02T11:27:00.000-05:00

Often on a Sunday afternoon, you might find me on the spacious patio of House Wine located on Josephine Street right behind P. Terry's on South Lamar Boulevard. Each Sunday they offer half off glasses of wine from bottles opened the night before. You never know what will be offered, but the selections are varied and abundant. Yesterday we sipped a Cote de Rhone Blanc (for me) and a Spanish red varietal (for him), not sure of exact name. House Wine offers a thoughtful selection of wine-friendly snacks both sweet and savory and P. Terry's burger selections aren't a bad pairing either. They also have lovely live music. See you soon on the patio of House Wine on a lazy Sunday afternoon, it's fabulous!

More Rachael Ray SXSW Fabulous to Report On Recipes Included

2012-03-30T13:06:00.001-05:00

There were drinks!

There was live music!

There was fun had by all!

In a chill setting ... read the full article here.

Fabulous (Drinking) Finds During SXSW 2012

2012-03-28T10:47:00.000-05:00

Photo courtesy of New Amsterdam

SXSW 2012 for me was occupied by the fabulous day parties happening around town, you may have spotted me chilling at Rachael Ray's Feedback Party The Greenhouse and at Cedar Door which was welcomingly converted to the Hard Rock Hotels Sound of Your Stay Music Lounge.

Kaiser Chiefs Photo Credit: Caleb Bryant Miller

I had a chance to see the Kaiser Chiefs perform, if you didn't already know (I didn't) they are fabulous. I also experienced a new vodka and gin from New Amsterdam. Their slogan is "it's so smooth you can drink it straight." And it was! Their spririts are made to be smooth and approachable needing no more than a little vermouth or a splash of juice. Below are some recipes for the drinks they provided at SXSW. Enjoy, they are fabulous!

South By Screwdriver

Order up an Austin Au-range. Want to dress it up? Ask for a Paula’s Texas Orange floater!

1 1Ž2 oz New Amsterdam Vodka

3 1Ž2 oz either orange juice or Orangina

Optional 1Ž4 oz Paula’s Texas Orange liqueur float

Garnish with a slice of orange

Bat City Bloody Mary

Everything’s spicier in Texas. Even the vodka.

1 1Ž2 oz New Amsterdam Vodka infused with jalapenos

5 1Ž2 oz Zing Zang Bloody Mary Mixer

Garnish with olives and a lime wedge

New Amsterdam Smooth Martini

Which martini man (or woman) are you—vodka or gin?

3 oz New Amsterdam Vodka or Gin

1Ž4 oz dry vermouth

Garnish with an olive

Groovin’ Gibson

The classic cocktail, not the guitar.

3 oz New Amsterdam Vodka or Gin

1Ž4 oz dry vermouth

Garnish with a cocktail onion

A Fabulous Private Label Wine at Sullivan's Steakhouse

2012-03-21T11:25:00.002-05:00

SXSW may be over, but Sullivan's Steakhouse is keeping things interesting in downtown Austin. They just launched their new private label wine, Sullivan's Private Reserve Cabernet, and it happens to be fabulous. It is a meritage blend (77% Cabernet) from respected winemakers Robert Foley and Steve Matthiason. The thing I like about it most other than its rich, plum hue, beautiful nose and superb drinkability, is its price, $55 a bottle and $13 a glass. This is the perfect wine to order for the table while enjoying dinner with friends. It holds up to a succulent steak and has a soft roundness (sounds like I'm describing a bum) that appeals to a wide range of palettes and dishes. I would pair this with a piece of salmon or plump sea scallops. Other exciting news from Sullivan's is they are revamping their bar menu. Expect to find classics such as the Blue Cheese Chips and The Best Burger in Town with a few new delectable dishes that will pair perfectly with a glass of their private label wine. Thank you Sullivan's for keeping it fabulous!

The Fabulous Feedback Party by Rachael Ray for SXSW

2012-03-16T13:51:00.000-05:00

In its fifth year, the fabulous Rachael Ray Feedback at the Greenhouse party is in full effect! Don't fret if you didn't get invited this year, there's always next! I'll give you a sneak peek into the party.

This was the chill scene early in the day yesterday.

Photo Credits: justin Hissong

Drinks were provided by Patron Tequila and Honest Tea products, this is their Honest Ade Orange Mango flavor mixed with tequila, of course!

This was the stage area they set up, the bands were awesome as well.

Then, tomorrow, open to the public (so get there early!) is the main event at Stubb's BBQ. I will be found with a fabulous drink in hand!

Fabulousness at Lucy's Fried Chicken for SXSW

2012-03-15T09:47:00.003-05:00

I finally made it over to Lucy's Fried Chicken this week for lunch with my Citysearch editor, David, who was in town for SXSW. I needed a place he had not heard of with a chill, laid back, Austin vibe. Lucy's fit the bill. I started with a Lucy Basilia - made with my favorite Dripping Springs Vodka, honey, lemon juice, basil leaves and fresh muddled blackberries, it was fabulous! We dined on the wood fired grilled Diablo Oysters, a surprisingly light, fresh and tasty Lucy's House Salad. The gents shared a basket of the famed Fried Chicken (I refrained because of a gluten intolerance, but was sure it was on the table), it looked delicious and came garnished with a dill pickle and jalapeños. We all dove into a side of the Collard Greens and scraped the bacon-infused dish clean.

I plan on experiencing more of Lucy's fabulous drinks this week during SXSW, especially the Juicy Lucy, their version of a frozen watermelon margarita - yum! I'll see you there for more fabulous drinks and this fabulous event.

Photo Credit: Lucy's Fried Chicken

A Fabulous Event to Celebrate Fabulous Women

2012-03-13T10:57:00.002-05:00

Photo courtesy of LePA Skincare

Lepa Skincare, owned by the stunning and glowing Manja (and husband, Sam) Hossa recently recognized International Women's Day, which took place on March 8. I was honored to be on the presence of Hossas and learn more about their fabulous spa.

Photo courtesy of LePA Skincare

A Fabulous and Fun Way to Win Some Cash with Citysearch During SXSW

2012-03-09T10:07:00.002-06:00

You may have noticed a new look to the trustworthy Citysearch site. They are launching a new look, new content and an overall newfound and fabulous way to find the best of the best in Austin. They are in town, right now, during SXSW, and are conducting a QR Code Scavenger Hunt where the winner takes home $5,000. Wait there's more, they are also giving away three $300 Visa cash cards. THE FUN STARTS TONIGHT AT 7PM!!! Details Here!

Fabulous Drinks at Restaurant Bars

2012-03-02T11:22:00.003-06:00

Photo Credit: Katie Lesnick

It's that time of year again, the launch of the new 2012 Austin City Guide. I am honored to be a contributor and to share with you my favorite places to have a fabulous drink and that would be at restaurants bars! Those of you who know me or who have been following this blog, know that I am a huge fan of the restaurant bar. You get good quality bar food, in a good atmosphere with equally as good service. It's also a great way to try out a new restaurant without fully committing to a full meal (and a portion of your paycheck), and there is almost always a seat at the bar no matter how packed the place may be.

First up is the newest kid on the block and that is Gusto Italian Kitchen brought to us by the fine folks of what used to be La Sombra (which is making a comeback, stay tuned here for details coming soon). Managing partner, Cameron Lockely, describes Gusto as an "everyday, neighborhood place." And the bar scene is "lively and fun, the wine flows freely." And that wine, by the way is an exceptional value, with 39 bottles priced below $39. They have a fabulous, daily happy hour with food specials and 25% off bottles of wine. They only serve beer and wine, but offer these delicious appertifs made with Italian liquors, pictured above, with equal parts liquor and club soda, garnished with a lemon twist. They tasted like cola and went down way too smoothly. Lockley describes Gusto as a funky and fun place with great price points, I describe it as fabulous!

Photo Credit: Jody Horton

Next up is an oldie, but goodie and I went here on a recent weekday night to celebrate with my girls (that celebration may have something to do with a shiny piece of jewelry on my left hand). Asti provided the perfect, eloquent, yet comfortable atmosphere that was perfect for a sophisticated night out with the ladies and equally as romantic for the tables of those seated around us on date night. On weekdays from 4-6 p.m. dine on fabulous food items, like the antipasti pictured above, flatbread pizzas pictured below and

Photo Credit: Jody Horton

select wines for just $5. Other wines by the glass are $2 off. The menu items, atmosphere and company were all fabulous!

Photo courtesy of Coal Vines

Lastly, and yes this is a Dallas home-grown, but I'm happy to welcome them to Austin because they got on the bandwagon quickly offering a weekday happy hour, smart Coal Vines, smart. Their happy hour is from 3-6 p.m. with six wines at $6 a glass, there aren't any food specials, but their price points are a great value. Entrees are all under $20 and the appetizer offerings are large enough to share. I'm in love with the smoked salmon tartar. They are known for their coal oven fired pizzas which are equally as good. If you miss happy hour don't panic, saddle up to the bar and let Cat take care of you, he's a character, in a good way, and a fabulous host. There are also wines available at value prices both on the blackboards above the bar and on the printed menu. Go there now, it's fabulous.

There you have, some of my favorite restaurant bars to have fabulous eats and drinks. I hope you saddle up to one with me soon, that would be fabulous!

A Fabulous and First Ever - Fête du Cuvée Fine Wine Auction

2012-02-27T20:53:00.001-06:00

I said before and am reconfirming that the Austin/San Antonio tie is becoming stronger than ever. Just last week, I attended the StarChefs.com Rising Stars Awards where chefs and mentors representing both markets were presented. Then, just last month, the inaugural San Antonio Cocktail Conference hit the streets of the Alamo City with Austin all stars highly representing. And now there's yet another event taking place in Austin's sister city causing a stir, the inaugural Fête du Cuvée Fine Wine Auction. Yes, it's taking place in San Antonio but is similar to the fabulously successful (the proof, it's in its 27th year), Rare & Fine Wine Auction presented by The Wine & Food Foundation at the Four Seasons Hotel Austin. At the Fête du Cuvée, the best of the best will be present including Executive Chef James Moore, who has Austin ties, of Max's Wine Dive and Steven McHugh of the beloved Luke San Antonio. Oh yeah, and the wine and auction items! Did I mention it's black tie too! Get in the car, head south, sip and savor -this is going to be fabulous!

A Fabulous Drink to Celebrate National Margarita Day

2012-02-21T11:26:00.000-06:00

Wednesday, February 22 marks this year's National Margarita Day! There is much debate in this great town of Austin, Texas and nearby, sister city, San Antonio, on who shakes up the best margarita and whether to order it frozen or on the rocks, with salt or without. I had conducted my own personal challenge of the best frozen earlier this summer, read more here. I also have my own opinion of who I think shakes up the best on-the-rocks version here and then again here. In honor of this fabulous day, I provide you with a few other bests with recipes included. Here you go and cheers!

First up is La Gloria's Morenita. This is Chef Johnny Hernandez’s twist on this classic. He combines tamarindo, fresh orange juice, Herradura Reposado tequila, and Cointreau and finishes with a chile-tamarind rim. We enjoyed this on recent, lazy Sunday afternoon while strolling the North end of the Riverwalk. Grab one to-go and enjoy it on the sprawling, green lawn overlooking the river.

2oz Herradura Reposado
2oz Cointreau
3oz Tamarindo Puree
2oz Orange Juice
1oz Simple Syrup

Mix all ingredients in a shaker and shake well. Pour over ice in a glass with a chile chamoy rim. Garnish with an Orange Wedge.

Next, try Nate Wale's Margarita Classica at La Condesa. I like to sit outside on the side patio (which I call the VIP area) and watch the traffic and downtown Austin scene go by.

1.5 oz Cazadores Blanco

.5 oz Damiana

1 oz Fresh lime juice

.5 oz Fresh pineapple juice

.25 Agave Nectar

.75 oz Water

There are many others to comment on, but this is one of my old favorites, the Ranch Water at Ranch 616. This is the perfect aperitif or summertime sipper.

1/3 Hornitos Reposado

1/3 Fresh lime,

1/3 Patron Citronge

Top with a splash of Topo Chico, garnish with a lime slice and serve with the remainder of the bottle on the side.

There you have it, some fabulous ways to enjoy this year's National Margarita Day. I'll be toasting with you tomorrow.

A Fabulous Foodie Event

2012-02-16T10:46:00.001-06:00

There has been a strong connection between the food/beverage worlds of Austin and San Antonio lately including the first-ever San Antonio Cocktail Conference, which I reported on via CultureMap.com. I'm liking this Austin-San Antonio collaboration! San Antonio is proving to be a fabulous weekend getaway equipped with hip and luxurious accommodations, the new Museum Reach on the north end of the River Walk and fabulous cocktail lounges and dining options.

Continuing this trend, StarChefs.com, an online magazine for the culinary folks, is holding their first ever Austin-San Antonio Rising Stars Awards this coming Tuesday, February 21 at the Driskill Hotel. Rising Stars recognizes not only chefs, but also those in the spirits, craft beer and wine categories. Just announced are the brewer finalists for this year's event. Finalists up for an award include local Austin craft brewers: Kevin Brand, 512 Brewing Company, 512brewingcompany.com; Will Golden, Austin Beerworks, austinbeerworks.com; Scott Metzger, Freetail Brewing Co., freetailbrewing.com; Brian Peters, Uncle Billy’s Brew & Que, unclebillys.com; Jeffrey Stuffings, Jester King Craft Brewery, jesterkingbrewery.com and Jeff Young, Black Star Co-op, blackstar.coop. Tickets for the event can be found here.

Now, if only we had some kind of light rail between the two cities, that would be fabulous!

Fall in Love with These Fabulous Valentine's Day Ideas in Austin

2012-02-13T10:35:00.001-06:00

You already know I love this Hallmark holiday and Valentine's Day celebrated in Austin couldn't be better this year! There's already something to do every night of the week in this terrific town we live in and Valentine's on Tuesday night is no exception. Here is a round up of fabulous finds to celebrate your Valentine.

Trace at the W Hotel for dinner.

Travaasa Austin is offering Travaasa for Lovers throughout the month with romance-inspired classes. Packages include overnight accommodations, meals, spa credit and classes for foodies, for the focused and for the free-spirited. Visit their site for more information.

Photo Courtesy of Travaasa

My new favorite spa, Hiatus, is offering specially themed treatments such as the Lover's Trio, Be My Spa Valentine and Love Thyself. Trust me on this one and book now!

Photo by Ryann Ford

Another favorite (and often forgotten) spa is Viva Day Spa, also offering fabulous Valentine's-themed treatments such as the Delicious Duet and the Chocolate Spa Package.

Photo Courtesy of Viva Day Spa

Jezebel's Chef Parind Vora is hosting an intimate four-course dinner on Valentine's Day in his private home. Check out their site for details.

Eddie V's is featuring Valentine's Day Cocktails. Mix up these fabulous drinks for your favorite Valentine!

ETERNAL BLISS

YIELD: 1 cocktail

INGREDIENTS:

2 oz of Hendrick’s Gin

1 oz. of St. Germain elderflower

.75 oz. of Fresh lemon juice

.25 oz of Simple syrup

Float Rose sparkling wine

2 strawberries, muddled

Garnish: Mint and ½ of a strawberry, sliced

METHOD:

Build this cocktail in a shaker tin, except the rose sparkling wine
Muddle Strawberries
Add all other ingredients except the sparkling wine
Shake and pour into a rocks glass
Float Rose Sparkling Wine
Garnish with FRESH sprig of mint and FRESH cut ½ strawberry

VALENTINI

YIELD: 1 martini

INGREDIENTS:

2 oz. of Karma Silver Tequila

1 oz of Grand Marnier

.25 oz. of Fresh Lime Juice

1 oz of cranberry juice

.25 oz. of Agave Nectar

Garnish: Twist of lemon

METHOD:

In a shaker, mix all ingredients
Shake until chilled
Serve in a martini glass with a lime wedge

LOVE POTION #9

YIELD: 30 martinis

(Recommended to prepare this one week in advance)

INGREDIENTS:

2 bottles of absolute mango

2 pineapples

2 lbs. of strawberries

Cambro or Jar

Garnish: Lime Wheel

METHOD:

Cut Pineapple and Strawberries and layer them in a jar or cambro
Pour both bottles of Absolute Mango on top of the fruit, then cover
Let the vodka infuse over a 7-day period. Store in a dark place at room temp for best results
After 7 days pull out the vodka and squeeze out the fruit. Make sure to strain out all of the bits of pineapple and strawberry
Pour the concoction into Store & Pours
To serve, pour 3 oz into shaker with ice to chill, then pour into a martini glass

One of my new favorite restaurants, Bistrot Mirabelle, formerly Mirabelle is doing it up this Valentine's Day French-style. Enjoy a three-course dinner with Champagne for just $37.95.

Sullivan's Steakhouse is offering a special three-course dinner offered now through Valentine's Day with suggested wine pairings.

Foreign & Domestic is also serving up a four-course meal to share with your sweetie. Two seating times are available.

Bring your sweetheart in for a Valentine’s Day treat!
Ned and Jodi will prepare a lovely 4-course meal with wine pairings. We will have two seatings, at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Seating is limited, so call us to reserve your seats now!

Date: Tuesday, February 14
Time: 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Pricing: Dinner is $50 per person including wine pairings (Tax and tip NOT included)
To reserve: Call us at (512) 459-1010; a credit card number will be required to hold the reservation.

We hope to see you there!

Choice of one

Winter Cabbage Trifle with Black Radish, Uni, and Whipped Dashi
or
Arugula with Pickled Beets, Candied Nuts, and Buttermilk (Vegetarian)
or
Ricotta Toast with Squid, Chorizo, and Frilly Mustard

Wine Pairing

2010 Cedrus le Blanc
or
Francois Montand Blanc de Blancs NV

Choice of one

Gratin of Potato Gnocchi and Emmenthaler with Pistachio Sabayon (Vegetarian)
or
Roasted Chanterelle Soup with Chestnuts and Salted Grapes
or
Smothered Beef Tongue with Onions, Fish Sauce, and Pickled Peppers

Wine Pairing

2010 Anna Amie Cuvée a Müller Thurgau, Willamette Valley (OR)
or
2008 Chåteau La Croix Moniduc, Bordeaux (FR)

Choice of one

Roasted Scallops with Blood Sausage, Brussels Sprouts, and Blood Orange
or
Braised Wagyu Beef with Potato Gratin and Beef Heart Ragu
or
Duck Fried Rice with Fennel Kimchi, Pickled Tongues, and Confit
or
Polenta Parmentier with Cheese Fondue, Root Vegetables, and Lime (Vegetarian)

Wine Pairing

2009 Daedalus Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley(OR)
or
2008 Teira Zinfandel, Sonoma County (CA)

Choice of one

Rice Pudding with Grape Caramel, Blood Orange Sorbet, and Candied Pistachios
or
Chocolate-Cherry Cheesecake with Biscotti, Cherry Ice, and Coffee Cream

Wine Pairing

Champagne

Substitutions Politely Declined

All Courses paired with wine

Tax and Tip not included in ticket price

Don't celebrate Valentine's Day at Contigo!

One of my personal favorites is Aviary Lounge. There's a discreet yet thoughtful winebar housed inside this unassuming furniture store. Treat your sweetie to something unassuming this Valentine's Day!

AVIARY PRESENTS “INTERCOURSES” AN EVENING OF APHRODISIACS WITH PERFORMANCE BY BLUE LAPIS LIGHT

Aviary hosts a special Valentine event with menu prepared by Verde Supper Club.

Aviary invites you to enjoy a six course aphrodisiac-influenced menu paired with wines. Each oyster and every morsel of chocolate will be paired with the expertise of Aviary's wine list. Before dessert, Blue Lapis Light, a dance company that uses aerial techniques along with classical and modern dance, will be exploring innovative forms of expression during a body-balancing act. The entire evening will remind you what a night out on the town is all about: seductive, delicious, and unpredictable. Tickets are $90 per person, wine included.

1. Smoked Duck with Cabernet-Red Currant Glaze and Dry Cherries

2. Fried Oyster with Passion Fruit Salsa

3. Reconstructed Waldorf Salad: Bibb Lettuce, Julienned Apples, Celery Leaves, Crispy Sweet Walnuts and Apple Cider Vinaigrette

4. Seared Sea Scallop with Tarragon Butter on Lavender, Orange and Honey Braised Endive

5. Braised Beef Short Ribs with Roasted Pearl Onions, Potato Puree and Horseradish Crème Frâiche

6. Chocolate Terrine with Crème Anglaise and Pistachios

Tuesday, Feb. 14, from 7pm until 10pm.

Aviary is located at 2110 South Lamar, Austin.

For more information please call (512) 916-4445, or go online to www.aviarylounge.com. Reservations required, please go to www.verdesupperclub.com.

And lastly, you can't go wrong with a little sushi from Piranha Killer Sushi! Tease you lover with speciality rolls named the Marry Me Roll and Love At First Sight and order her a Sexyitini adored with an edible orchid. This Valentine's Day they are presenting a specially-themed menu and reservations are accepted.

Fabulousness is Coming and Gents It Involves Beer

2012-02-08T10:53:00.000-06:00

Coming soon, cans, from Hops and Grain. Stay tuned ...

Fabulous February Events to Celebrate Valentine's Day

2012-02-06T10:27:00.001-06:00

Photo courtesy of Four Seasons

I said before and I'll say it again, I love this holiday! The cheesy heart-shaped boxes of chocolates, the sugar-laiden candy hearts with sweet nothings on them, and the not-so-green, paper-wasting boxes of Valentine cards young children give out to express their innocent crushes. Up until the 14th, I'll be reporting on how you can begin the celebration of this lovely holiday. Up first is the Four Seasons' wine and chocolate truffle pairing this Tuesday, February 7 from 5pm-7pm in the Lobby Lounge. Join sommelier Mark Sayre and Nicole Patel of Delysia Chocolatier as they take you through up to six pairings that include Champagne, cigar and coffee bark truffles paired with Champagne, Bordeaux and Syrah. No reservations are needed and I hope to see you there. It will be fabulous! Stay tuned for more ways to celebrate this fabulous holiday ...

Fabulous Events Happening This Week and Next

2012-01-27T10:53:00.001-06:00

While I'll be busy reporting on fabulousness on the first ever San Antonio Cocktail Conference there is a ton of fabulous events happening all over town. One of which is the Prohibition Party taking place at Sullivan Steakhouse.

There will be cocktails, costumes, door prizes and fun to be had by all! Come dressed in your finest get up for the costume contest that takes place at 9pm.

Next up, enjoy "Fancy Fridays" at Houndstooth Coffee.

Instead of casual Fridays, the fine folks of Houndstooth Coffee get fancy, which in my opinion is fabulous! The fun starts in February from 8am-5pm where the Baristas sport bow ties, fedoras and such. A new pop-up vintage shop offering fabulous finds for men and women is present too. Fancy=Fabulous!

Next Saturday, join in the fabulous in the parking lot of Jo's Coffee on South Congress for the 6th Annual Chili Cook Off.

This year your attendance is especially appreciated as the beneficiary will be a young woman diagnosed with breast cancer, see more here:

The benefactor is our dear friend Lila Tenenbown of the SIMS Foundation, who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer at age 32. Help join us raise proceeds for her Recovery Fund and enjoy some amazing chili as this year’s competition has a record-breaking 15 entries. Winner gets their chili featured on Frank’s menu. In addition, there will be live music and a two-stepping competition.

I hope to see you out and about partaking in one or all of these fabulous events!

Fabulous Drinks Reports: Easy Tiger is Open for Business

2012-01-23T16:35:00.001-06:00

After a much anticipated and long wait Easy Tiger has finally opened it's doors to the public. Last Wednesday marked a preview for close friends and family of Easy and a soft opening took place over the weekend. They unlocked their doors at 7 a.m. this morning for their official grand opening and were pleasantly surprised to find much of their bakery items sold out.

When you walk in, you are greeted by a panoramic view of the open bakery with see-through windows acting as menu displays. Abundant varieties of breads and soft pretzels line the walls and pastries are attainably laid out on the counter to entice you.

Friendly management welcomes you in and asks if you'd like to order at the counter to take your goods to-go or make your way down to the beer garden to stay awhile.

Being that it was lunchtime and in the high 60s with abundant sunshine, we opted to stay awhile and made our way to the outdoor beer garden. We snacked on vegetarian sausage, the Italian Easy Board, which included both country chicken and classic Italian sausage, and an abundance of sides available including braised red cabbage, potato salad, cole slaw and more.

Photo credit Justin Hissong

The service, quality, atmosphere and the company were none other than fabulous!

A Fabulous New Spa Experience -There Will Be Cocktails!

2012-01-16T04:34:00.000-06:00

photo credit: Ryann Ford

Come out this Tuesday, January 17 for a fabulous introduction to an even more fabulous new spa in town. Hiatus Spa is an Aveda-concept spa that offers high-qulaity, affordable spa treatments. They believe that taking care of yourself, often, is the key to good health and that it shouldn't cost a fortune. They are hosting an open house for the public on Tuesday. I couldn't wait and visited this past weekend, my experience was none other than fabulous. I hope to see you on Tuesday, as stated above, there will be cocktails to be had (delicious Treaty Oak Gin to be specific) and it will surely be fabulous!

Rescheduled: A Fabulous First (For Me) - A Torrid Affair Supper Club

2012-01-14T17:34:00.002-06:00

Photo Credit Nom Nom PR

Update: This event has been rescheduled for a later date, please stay tuned. Monday, January 16 will mark this year's first A Torrid Affair's supper club event benefitting The Sustainable Food Center and Dell Children's Medical Center. A six-course dinner and cocktail pairing will be held at Springdale Farm. When I heard that Chef Bryce Gilmore of Barley Swine and mixologist Dwayne Allen Clark of Peche were teaming up to present January's Supper Club event I was on board. I have yet to experience a professional supper club and am excited to attend. I already know it will be fabulous and will be sure to report back on that fabulousness for you.