Cambridge Multicultural Arts Center: Visual and Performing Arts

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From gospel concerts to a music and art tribute, the Cambridge Multicultural Arts Center was recently awarded a Preservation Award from the Cambridge Historical Commission for the historic preservation work completed in the theater. The arts center located in Bulfinch Square in East Cambridge focuses on exploring diversity through visual and performing arts. Grab a drink and order up some appetizers at the jazz club or check out a destination dance performance. The center also offers family events, including their annual gospel concert honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Visit multiculturalartscenter.org for more information.

Mad Cat Theatre Company: Alternative to the traditional

Keeping theatre contemporary, fresh and original might as well be Mad Cat Theatre Company’s motto, it’s what they’ve been doing around Miami for the past decade.

Although a majority of their performances are one-time only there are a couple that have become part of their repertoire. There’s the hilarious “Shepherd’s Pie” filled with limericks and Irish humor and the hit play “Broadsword” which plays on the classic theme of the classic rock band break-up and the problems that ensue.

Made up a group of talented Carbonell-award-winning actors, this wacky and intelligent troupe seeks to provoke, entice and challenge their audiences with original plays that touch on a variety of subjects folks can relate to. At times gut-busting and always memorable, it’s always worth making time for a Mad Cat show.

The company performs at the Adrienne Arsht Center at 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Downtown Miami.

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Tavern on the Scene: Laurel Tavern

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If you happen to be in the San Fernando Valley on a Saturday night looking for something to do, visit Laurel Tavern in Studio City where there are a fine selection of beers on tap as well as a fine selection of pretty faces everywhere.

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Though the Valley isn’t particularly known for their happening nightlife, Laurel Tavern is an exception to the rule. This rustic “pub” is the perfect place to grab after-work drinks with friends or kick back with a beer and bucket of fries any day of the week. Though they have an outdoor patio in front, finding a table inside seems to be all the rage, making it exceptionally hard to find a place to sit after a certain hour.

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The after-work crowd tends to pile in around 6pm or 7pm when the kitchen is still open and serving dishes such as Grilled Artichoke, Chorizo Sliders and Pork Belly Skewers.

The only downside to finding a table, chair and someone to share a beer with: you have to pay for everything at the bar.

Also, don’t be surprised if you run into a celebrity or two at a table in the back.

No Need to Shop Elsewhere: Noni Boutique

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Located in the Larchmont shopping district, Noni Boutique definitely stands out when it comes to high-end women’s fashion and designs. Whether it is that perfect cocktail dress you are looking for or a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry, Noni only carries the best and can offer some styling guidance and advice for the girl who can’t seem to make up her mind.

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The racks at Noni are filled with big names such as Vivienne Westwood, Anna Sui and anyone else who is major in the fashion industry. Though Noni is considered to be one of the trendiest stores on the block, it also combines art and fashion to create a one-stop-shop for the fashion and art enthusiast. Many gallery viewings and art openings have occurred in the store so patrons can enjoy art and fashion in one viewing.

Even though some of the items at Noni are on the pricier side, be sure to attend their famous Semi-annual Sidewalk Sale that happens as a part of their “spring cleaning.”

Penelope’s: Shop Like a Star

sessunblackdressLocated at the border of Wicker Park and the Ukranian Village, Penelope’s is a hip boutique that celebs love to peruse when they’re in town. It’s low profile but full of sweet finds for both sexes.

Around since 2002 —  which for this ‘hood and the average life span of a trendy boutique, means it’s practically a dynasty; the brands they love that you’re sure to find here include:

  • Our Legacy
  • Sessún
  • Gitman Vintage
  • Shades of Grey
  • Spiewak

They don’t stock up on enormous amounts of size runs which means little risk of seeing your look mirrored back to you on Michigan Avenue – collections change frequently so shop often!

The White Way to Dine: Villa Blanca Restaurant

Whether you are looking to run into the Real Housewife of Beverly Hills herself or her precious Pomeranian Giggy, Lisa Vanderpump’s Villa Blanca in Beverly Hills combines Mediterranean and Italian cuisine with Asian touches and influences. This beautiful eatery located on Brighton Way is close to major Beverly Hills boutiques and shops and is the perfect place to grab lunch on the patio for some serious people watching.

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The interior is described as “sexy and comfortable” by the designer herself and brings an element of comfort and coziness to the color white. With grandiose mirrors hanging on the walls as well as exotic and elegant flower arrangements everywhere, Villa Blanca offers brunch, lunch, dinner and a fancy bar area for all your drinking and dining needs.

The dinner menu consists of Crispy Rice & Spicy Tuna appetizers with entrees such as Sweet & Spicy Butterflied Shrimp, Chicken Milanese and Japanese Mushroom Chicken. Brunch at Villa Blanca means $10 specials including Villa Blanca’s Breakfast Pizza, Vegetarian Frittata and Prosciutto and Melon.

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Whether it’s for the food, people watching or a quick glimpse of Lisa herself, a visit to the Villa will have everyone saying, Bravo.

NV Penthouse Lounge: Don’t Be Jealous

e15296image1OK so we admit, NV Penthouse Lounge has a point: we’re envious. Who wouldn’t be of their 600 square foot terrace on the penthouse floor over looking the entire city of Chicago? Thankfully this place is open to the public so we can all go in and soak up the scene and pretend just for a night, that we own the place.

The green light emanating from this sexy club (if you ever get yourself off the terrace to actually spend time in it) is probably a play on being green with jealousy, we get it. But just check it at the door so there’s no hating and you can dance amongst all the beautiful people without stirring up too much trouble. This place is one to see and be seen but do it with love people.

Noguchi Museum

The Noguchi Museum, chartered as The Isamu Noguchi Foundation and Garden Museum, was designed and created by the Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi in 1985 to preserve and display his sculptures, architectural models, stage designs, drawings, and furniture designs. It is a two story museum with an outdoor sculpture garden. It is located in the Long Island City section of Queens, one block from the Socrates Sculpture Park. In 2004, a major renovation allowed the museum to remain open year round.

Mel’s Burger Bar

At Mel’s Burger Bar they do exactly what their name suggests, they offer a solid selection of massive burgers, frosty shakes, comfort food classics and a killer bar experience. They “meat” and exceed your expectations by offering high quality fun and food options matched with a lively, laid back atmosphere. The 140 seat restaurant features three-dimensional exposed brick, black and white checkered tile floors, custom wood ceiling beams and six flat screen televisions for your viewing pleasure. If you forget where you are, an illuminated six-foot Mel’s sign will remind that you that this vintage burger shack has everything you need.

The Frick Collection

The Frick Collection includes some of the best-known paintings by the greatest European artists, major works of sculpture (among them one of the finest groups of small bronzes in the world), superb eighteenth-century French furniture and porcelains, Limoges enamels, Oriental rugs, and other works of remarkable quality.

Piece: Eat Your Pizza in Peace

pizzaandbeerWhen you think Chicago and pizza, the image of a 100 pound deep dish usually conjures. Not the case at Piece Pizzeria and Brewery in Wicker Park. Nope. Here slices of just about anything you want can be made and the most popular is actually the “New Haven” style.

From clams to sauteed mushrooms, the topping selections means no one goes home hungry. And the beer? What other perfect accoutrement could one need? With its seven barrel brewery, Piece produces award winning micro brews thanks to brewer John Cutler who was even named top brewmaster at the World Beer Cup Champion as was this small brewpub. Prost!

IO Theater: SNL Loves Them So You Should Too

thumb_ccsc_slideYes Chi-town is a funny freaking city. Ever stop to think how many native Chicagoans star on SNL and are the comedic stars of the big screen? And when SNL is ready for new cast members, guess where they recruit? Yep, Chicago. Not just Second City either, in the Lakeview neighborhood, just a hop skip and a jump away from Wrigely Field is the IO Theater – the best of the city’s improv.

Spectators are oohed and ahhed over the skills of these actor slash comedians as they whip up entire musicals based on words provided by the audience. From cabaret to the just plain bizarre one thing is sure here – you won’t leave without a side ache.

Time Treasures: Back to the Future

In a time when it’s hip to be old school (what with the economy and all), it’s better to preserve your classics and opt for long standing treasures in lieu of trends du jour. Alas, Chicagoans who do so invest in antiques or reupholster their current furniture when they want a new look.

Time Treasures may be a bit off the beaten path (at Irving and Austin) but it is the spot to get inspired by European antiques and amazing mirrors and accessories (many which end up in the hippest restaurants in the city). They specialize in pieces from the 1800s to 1940s and yet can reupholster any piece you currently own to a brand new look!

Half the fun of visiting this store is interacting with the colorful owners – Jacek Kafel Sr. who was a rock star in his hey day in hometown Krakow, Poland and Creative Director, Anna Phillips – his daughter is known for becoming instant friends with her customers for her charm can not be beat!84

Ontourage: The Club Not the Show

lSexy, hip and in your face, Ontourage splashed on the Chi-town scene in a big way with its super techy sound from the future. The only club in the US to use JBL “Custom Shop Dance 3” audio system – guests beware. This is serious stuff: 10,000 square feet of sensory satisfaction.

With two dance floors, four bars and seven VIP areas, this multi-million dollar club and its fancy sound and Inlaid Color Kinetics System should keep the chicest of club snobs happy.

House and hip hop fans: unite to the sound while VIP folks – sip your Perignon and be merry.

Your New Favorite Spot: My Studio Nightclub

Though you probably remember it as Mood Nightclub, My Studio on Hollywood Boulevard has completed transformed their space to create a lounge environment with a wall filled with books, a piano in the corner and plush sofas for endless amounts of seating.

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The popular nightclub is bringing all types of people in, from those looking to enjoy a night out to those looking to celebrate a birthday or special event. Since the popularity of the spot is continually growing, your name on the guest list is essential unless you are looking forward to a long wait on line. And the fact that celebrity visitors include Karissa Shannon, Seth MacFarlane and Lauren Conrad, the hopes of getting past the velvet rope continue to grow as the weekends approach.

Along with celebrity followers, My Studio has also become popular thanks to their special events that are constantly being thrown and are constantly changing. Events include special guest performances, DJ visits and other appropriately themed parties such as their Post Memorial Day Party and celebrity birthdays.

Drumsticks & Draft Beer: Dillion’s Irish Pub

Where in Los Angeles can you enjoy a 3 dollar beer while playing a free game of pool in Hollywood? Meet Dillon’s, your new favorite hangout for after work drinks, sporting events and any reason to get out of the house to get to the bar.

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With comfort food, endless beers on tap and waitresses running around in green and white school girl outfits, the vibe at Dillon’s is always changing, from a mellow Tuesday night with a pitcher of beer to a packed bar on the weekends.

Though most people visit Dillon’s for the cheap beer, Dillon’s large menu offers classic comfort food and game day treats such as Crisp Fried Calamari, Fried Onion Rings and Avocado Fries, slices of avocado fried to perfection served with chipotle and lemon aioli on the side.

Thanks to comfort food, inexpensive beer and an always popular bar and seating area, this Irish pub is becoming as popular as the bars and night clubs that share the same street.

Fashion Forward in Studio City: Dari Boutique

For anyone living in Studio City who cares about fashion and the latest trends in over-the-knee boots, eclectic jewelry and the like, know to visit Dari Boutique for all their fashion, jewelry and accessory needs.

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Though other stores have come and gone, Dari Boutique caters to those craving high-end brands, unusual jewelry finds and anything else you could possibly imagine. Ever since their opening, Dari has treated their loyal clients like family, knowing them by name as well as their likes and dislikes as soon as they walk through the door.

Even though the store has a Zen vibe, some of the items that fill the racks may force you to break the bank. If you love Dari but can’t always afford to spend big, the big blowout sale has some amazing deals on designer finds and expensive accessories.

If you are looking for your “go-to” store or just looking to find that “go-to” dress, the lovely women at Dari Boutique are always ready to lend a fashionable hand.

Best Day of the Week: First Friday at Abbot Kinney

If the streets of Venice weren’t crowded enough, First Fridays at Abbot Kinney are bringing in hoards of people to take their wine and food truck finds to the streets of Venice as businesses stay open late for this particular occasion.

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First Fridays at Abbot Kinney have become a popular event that occurs every first Friday of the month. From 6pm-10pm, merchants, vendors and small businesses alike open their doors to pedestrians who along with strolling the streets, can listen to live music, visit various gourmet food trucks and mingle with Venice locals and visitors.

Not only has First Friday become a Venice tradition, it has become a way for local merchants and vendors to gain support and a following from those looking to have a fun Friday night out. From great food to great art, First Fridays at Abbot Kinney have everyone saying, T-G-I-F!

Brazil in Chicago: é ótimo!

DSCN0339With Brazil in the spotlight for its booming economy and upcoming major events: World Cup 2014 and Summer Olympics 2016, there’s never been a better time to tap into your inner Brazilian. Plus it makes you super sexy of course.

Nestled in a cozy home in the German ‘hood of Lincoln Square is the oh-so Brazilian abode of Brazil in Chicago. Here Windy City residents can tap into their inner Brazilian by taking Portuguese lessons which are even offered for native French and Spanish speakers and kid’s classes. In addition, cooking classes and dancing lessons (samba anyone) are available. Muito obrigada to Marcelo Jarmendia, the brains behind this recently booming school.