Save Some Money at Second Time Around

Second Time Around is a lot less expensive than most of the consignment stores around DC, but conveniently located in Georgetown. This store is filled to the brim with vintage treasures – jewelry, shoes, purses, dresses, and a lot more all carefully categorized for your convenience.

Carrying a wide selection of not only high-end designers, but also brands like BCBG or Forever21. Dig a little harder and you can definitely find the true gem that you are looking for.

You can consign easily at STA. Just make an appointment to review your items, then leave the rest to the boutique, and get ready to redeem your earnings after 90 days!

Shh… Any items that don’t sell can be reclaimed within the grace period or the boutique will donate them to the charity for you. Visit secondtimearound.net for more information.

M29 Lifestyle – a one-of-kind lifestyle

With gizmos and gadgets aplenty, M29 Lifestyle provides Washingtonians a resort style experience without leaving the capital.

Romantic flowing chiffon dresses, hand-embroidered pillow cases, mouth-blown glass decors, and even enchanted forest-themed collection of jewelry all from designers of faraway lands. These whimsical pieces are unique and definitely one of a kind.

M29 carries limited items to ensure shoppers have access to something exclusive.

This is definitely the perfect place to find a treat for yourself, something for the special him, and even gifts to surprise friends who already have everything!

Who’s Who at Hu’s Wear

Looking for high-end, fashion-forward clothing? Hu’s Wear is the place to go.

With products that are different than those sold at most District shops, Hu’s boutique garners trendy products from fashion powerhouses from all over the world and emerging international labels that are as stunning as their prices deserve. Don’t be too surprised if you come across stilettos with four-figure price tags.

But no worries, even if you are going to part with your paycheck, at least you will be swiping your credit card with an elegant flare and walking out sporting something chic and luxurious. Visit husonline.com for more information.

DC Chillin’ at Ben’s Chili Bowl

Ben’s Chili Bowl is a proud landmark of DC’s history since the 1950s, surviving through the DC riots of the late 60s and the devastating economic crisis during the 70s and 80s.

Despite all this, they have been serving what is considered as the best chili in not only DC, but in the country, bringing even the Sarkozys of France for a visit.

The thick, spicy chili that tastes even better over half smokes or a pile of cheese fries even brought DC rapper Wale and Lady Gaga to shoot their music video for “Chillin” at Ben’s.

Cafe Montmartre for a Taste of Paris

Who says that you need to be by the Seine to enjoy a taste of old Paris?

At Café Montmartre, with its exquisite interior and elegant front patio, it offers a taste of authentic Europe. Serving innovative plates of artfully prepared dishes paired with France’s finest wines, this Capitol Hill bistro is always teeming with returning customers and curious newcomers.

You may not have a view of the romantic Eiffel Tower or get to stroll by the glory of Sacre-Coeur; however, you can still discover DC’s premier Parisian cuisine at Café Montmartre.

The freshly baked baquettes, the delicacies with thick red wine reduction, and the aromatic truffle oil will keep you yearning for more.

Shoreline Sightseeing Cruises: architectural and skyline boat tours

Where did Miss O’Leary’s cow supposedly start the Chicago fire? Learn all that and so much more on Shoreline Sightseeing Cruises, which run about 45 minutes as you travel down the Chicago River. While the architectural and skyline boat tours are a big attraction for tourists, locals can get something out of this too. Enjoy a $5 beer while being regaled with historical tales of the Windy City, all the while relaxing on the boat deck. This isn’t a boring high school history lesson. The entertaining tour guide combines stories about well-known buildings with little-known facts. Architecture still not your cup of tea? Shoreline also organizes and hosts Fireworks cruises during the Summer months. Tickets typically start around $24, depending on what kind of cruise you choose.

Oleta River State Park: Explore nature on land or in water

Oleta River State Park makes perfect use of its surroundings in the most unlikeliest of places, near Biscayne Boulevard and on the way to Sunny Isles Beach. It’s Florida’s largest urban park and just for that is worth exploring for adventure seekers and lovers of the outdoors.

The bike paths here are extensive and range from novice trails to more challenging ones that provide an exciting ride for even the most experienced mountain biker. The scenery makes the adventure that much more exhilarating.

Kayaking or canoeing along the river provides incredible views of mangrove forest preserves filled with native South Florida plants and wildlife. Picnics are easy here too with nine pavilions available for rent and grills and picnic tables throughout the park. They’ve also got rustic cabins available for overnight guests. A dip in their manmade beach makes the outdoor experience complete.

Oleta River State Park is located at 3400 NE 163 St., North Miami Beach, FL 305-919-1844 www.floridastateparks.org/oletariver

ISA Boutique’s latest shop to join Midtown Miami

The merchandise here, hand-picked by owner Isabel Aguiar (hence the name ISA Boutique) is all Miami chic. The store is bright with the usual funky decor that’s so popular in small unique spots like this. A zebra-print rug, strategically placed clothing and accessories that’s aesthetically pleasing and an overall airy atmosphere that gives customers plenty of room to browse.

And browse they will, what with the awesome swimwear that’s pretty much useable year-round, colorful and custom-made jewelry and the kind of light, feminine clothes by local designer RaMona La Rue who is based in the Design District along with other well known fashions. Aguiar makes sure to provide beauty products too with her own line of products — Body by Isa.

ISA Boutique is located at  3400 N. Miami Ave., Miami, FL 786-558-8027 www.isa-boutique.com

Taboon – Middle Eastern cuisine meets Mediterranean cuisine in Hell’s Kitchen

If you ask real New Yorkers where to go for the best Mediterranean food, they will probably send you to Taboon restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen. If you ask them where to go for the best Middle Eastern cuisine they will most likely send you to Taboon also. They prepare most of their exotic specialties in a wood fired oven by blending in Mediterranean flavors with the Middle Eastern cuisine. In fact, “Taboon” in the Arabic word for oven. Every dish is splendid, and comes in a beautiful presentation, staring with an appetizer of falafel. Their lamb kebabs are huge, and they taste just as good as those I had on the streets of Israel. But let’s not forget to mention the décor of Taboon: authentic, authentic, authentic.
Therefore, Taboon offers a complete, unforgettable Middle Easter experience in the heart of Manhattan.

Taboon: 773 10th Ave · New York; (212) 713-0271

Calypso – Cruise in Style

The glamour of St. Barts translated into fashion – that’s how I would describe Calypso’s designs. Founded by the French fashion guru Christiane Celle, Calypso is the intersection between chic and glamorous with comfortable and summery. The silk-beaded dresses, pants, tops, and skirts are perfect for an upscale island vacation, but great for a summer promenade in NYC, or an evening in the Hamptons as well. Calypso has a couple of Zen, beautifully decorated stores in NYC: 426 Broom St, 935 Madison Av, 191 Lafayette, 815 Madison etc. They also have leather accessories, shoes, bikinis and a gorgeous house line. My favorites are the candles and the house fragrances which can bring the scent of St. Barts into your own living room.

Anna Sui: the colorful world of Fashion

Names by Times Magazine Top 5 Fashion Icons of the decade, Anna Sui creates timeless designs. Putting on one of her flowery, colorful dresses will not only flatter your silhouette, but put you in a good mood also. Everything is vivid, brightly colored, and made of easy to wear fabrics. In addition to clothing she also sells cosmetics, fragrances, and accessories in about 50 countries around the world.  In NYC you can purchase her designs in various high-end department stores, but I highly recommend you to visit her boutique in Soho on 113 Greene St, which is in fact her original store.  The design of the store is funky, painted in black and purple (Anna Sui’s signature colors), and they will also allow you to put items on hold.  Even if Anna Sui is not necessarily your style, you should still check the store out – it will be a nice visual experience.

Publish your thoughts in McNally

Wonderful news for all the authors in you! Now you can print your own book in NYC in the charming McNally Jackson Bookstore in Soho. You can print and Self-Publish library-quality paperbacks in a blink of an eye. You can print only one copy or an entire stack at an affordable price and test the market right in their bookstore.  McNally will let you sell it on their shelves, and you will retain the rights to your work. You can also design your own cover and add images inside. McNally is becoming increasingly more popular. For instance, Cory Doctorow – influential Science Fiction writer and cultural critic published his latest work in different formats in McNally.  Your novel, memories, diaries, notes and thoughts can now come to life.

Grand Central’s Downtown Miami’s newest nightspot

Grand Central is hitting the Downtown Miami scene with a bang, becoming the newest venue in the area to provide live music and a rollicking good time. Providing a place where music lovers can enjoy original bands and performers is first and foremost to the folks running Grand Central.

The line-up is non-stop and features DJ’s playing a blend of hip hop, Latin, and dance tunes. Amber Rose, model and ex girlfriend of hip hop artist Kanye West hosts a party here for her new beau Wiz Khalifa and bands like The Battles and Caramelos de Cianuro join other newcomers on the scene.

It’s a great deal too with minimal cover charges drink specials almost every night.

Grand Central is located at 697 N. Miami Ave., Miami, FL 305-377-2277 www.grandcentralmiami.com

Kayaking – Fun at No Cost

Activities such as the kayaking on the West side of Manhattan makes me appreciate this city even more. Downtown Boathouse is generously renting kayaks at NO cost in three locations: Pier 40, Pier 96 and West 72nd Street on Hudson River. They provide pretty much all you need for a nice stroll on the river: 40 kayaks, life jackets, lockers, and instructions. All you have to do is sign a waiver, and prepare for a great ride. Boathouse’s activities are made possible by a team of diligent volunteers and public donations, so free to get on board.
Tip: There is nothing more beautiful than kayaking just before sunset.
How can we not love New York City?
More info on their website: http://www.downtownboathouse.org/

Magic tricks and more at Timothy O’Toole’s

In a quiet part of the River North neighborhood, it’s somewhat surprising to discover how hopping Timothy O’Toole’s is. Tucked away at the bottom of a staircase, the spacious Irish sports bar offers more than just drink specials and pub grub. In one corner, there’s a handful of pool tables and video games. But best of all? On Saturday nights, a magician makes his rounds, showing off some card tricks and creating balloon animals for the local crowd, which isn’t made up of just Northwestern students. Even with all these entertainment options, Timothy O’Toole’s motto couldn’t be more true: “Win or lose, we came for the booze.”

Jaguar’s ceviche, and so much more…

Jaguar Ceviche Spoon Bar and Latam Grill is like a tour through Latin America and the cuisines that make each area unique. It’s what Chef Oscar del Rivero envisioned bringing to diners and he’s delivering.

Front and center is the ceviche spoon bar, a fantastic representation of unique bites representing Peru, where the dish is most popular, and some great variations. The Asian inspired ones have soy and ginger  while many others include cilantro. All of course include the freshest fish and lime which is what makes the dish what it is.

The Latam (short for Latin American) grill features a grilled organic chicken chicken breast stuffed with goat cheese and pico de gallo verde, simple grilled fish entrees and steaks like filet mignon and skirt steak or “churrasco.”

The atmosphere complements the menu perfectly with warm-colored walls, unique bamboo styled lighting and dark wood chairs at the bar.

Jaguar is located at 3067 Grand Ave., Coconut Grove 305-444-0216 www.jaguarspot.com

Touring the city with a segway

Flickr/tziralisThere’s lots of ways to get around the city, but the segway is the only one that requires a bit of balance. Even so, it’s a fun way to whiz around the city, all the while enjoying the scenery of Millennium Park, Lake Michigan, and all the skyscrapers. Before you zip down the sidewalk, your tour guide – whether its from Chicago Segway Tour or City Segway Tour – will first train you on how to ride the segway. Then hop on and take a tour of the Windy City, as your guide regales you and a small group with tales about what you’re traveling past.

Burgers take a gourmet twist at Twisted Root

Twisted Root Burger Co serves up gourmet burgers and fried hot dogs with a healthy dose of sass at six locations across the metroplex. It’s not a gourmet burger without options, and Twisted Root does not skimp on options.

The burger meat/patty choices include hamburger, buffalo burger, turkey burger, spicy veggie burger, or select wild game (Venison, Elk, Ostrich, Emu, Boar, Antelope, Lamb) on availability. The toppings are numerous and creative, offering everything from guacamole to chipotle sauce. To take decision making out of the process, they have a “specialty burgers” menu with suggested combinations. This is also a good place to find out if buffalo sauce actually goes with buffalo meat. To top off the burgers they have self-serve homemade pickles in a few different flavors. If a giant gourmet burger doesn’t fill you up, follow it up with a root beer float or milkshake made with homemade ice cream.

This is one Vice that’s worth keeping

One of the newest kids on the South Beach nightclub scene is Vice Lounge located in the quieter side of Lincoln Road, the area that’s closer to the beach and not among the hustle and bustle of the pedestrian mall.

It’s all decadence in this place so best to check inhibitions at the door and the interior reflects this. Red carpeted stairs lead to the second floor, great viewing areas from here for the dance floor, multiple bars and VIP areas with bottle service galore. Singer Jon Secada has hung out here, live performances are the norm and DJ’s love playing here.

As is the norm in spots like this, they regularly  host fashion shows here as well as happy hour parties. It’s a party every night, weeknights never stop any club on the beach and Vice is no exception.

Vice is located at 330 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, FL 305-532-2667 www.facebook.com/viceloungemiami

Fancy beer meets fancy food at the Meddlesome Moth

The folks from the Flying Saucer bring Dallas its first official “gastro pub.” The Meddlesome Moth, located just west of downtown in the design district, provides a setting that brings foodies and beer snobs together. In addition to serving a variety of specialty beers, the menu serves up creative combinations of both meals and “share plates” (think elaborate tapas).

Favorite share plates include the Five Spice Pork Belly, Shrimp and Grits (with jalapeno gravy), Hawaiin “Ahi” Tuna and the collard greens. The cayenne-lime fried hominy is great if you’re just looking for a nibble.

The beer menu is a little slice of heaven for any craft beer snob. It contains all the staples plus a variety that changes seasonally. While beer suggestions change with every palette, for something truly different keep an eye out for any of the beers aged in whiskey/bourbon/brandy barrels (like Rahr’s Whiskey Warmer).

Bar plus arcade equals Barcadia

The Barcadia off Knox/Henderson is the place to indulge in both adult libations and your inner child. For the adult in you, Barcadia has a decent draught selection as well as an extensive selection of bottled imports. They also have some killer weekly specials and Sunday Brunch, complete with Mimosas and Bloody Marys.

For the kid in you, the Barcadia has over a dozen vintage arcade games, Skee Ball, and Jenga made out of giant pieces on the patio that make a loud crashing noise whenever someone loses.

The menu consists of typical greasy bar fare with a few twists thrown in for good measure, such as fried PB&J, fried deviled eggs and a falafel sandwich. For those watching their waistline the menu has six, yes, six, salad choices. Not too shabby for a menu that’s clearly geared towards soaking up alcohol.

Pizza Lounge in Expo Park serves up creative pies in a creative setting

Exposition Park’s Pizza Lounge is the kind of place you’d expect to see in the Dallas section of Lonely Planet. The interior gives off an eclectic ambiance with purposely-mismatched couches and lounge chairs around every table. Pizza Lounge is conveniently located across the street from Fair Park, is right by a DART station and it’s only a skip hop and a jump from Deep Ellum.

The menu is an entertaining read unto itself with cleverly named dishes and pies. A few good choices are the Nickel Bag/Dime Bag (small/large spinach and broccoli rabe), the Margherita (it seems like a boring choice until you realize they throw capers on there), or the Sofa King: a pie so loaded with meat it guarantees to make you “Sofa King Full.” Pizza Lounge also loves vegans as much as vegans love animals with several vegan options and substitutes conveniently labeled with a green “v” symbol. Don’t be cruel – eat tofu.

Northpark Center is upscale shopping at its finest

Northpark Center is a staple for Dallas shopping. The store directory alone has its own bragging rights with representation from top designers such as Betsy Johnson, Versace, Gucci and the list goes on. Northpark Center also dons a collection of fine art and installations throughout the building with acquisitions by Nancy A. Nasher. Northpark’s restaurants and eateries are also better-than-your-average food court. The official food court has a Paciugo, a Which Which and a Snappy Salads, and their restaurants include fancy favorites Luna De Noche, Maggiano’s and McKormick and Schmick’s Seafood. As if all that wasn’t enough, Northpark is the future home to Dallas’ first and only H&M opening later this year. Pardon me while I squeal with excitement.

The Kimbell Art Museum provides a perfect space for viewing fine art

Fort Worth’s Kimbell Art Museum houses a small but impressive permanent collection ranging from antiquity to modern times. The Kimbell consistently hosts excellent special exhibitions featuring some of history’s greatest artists, including Picasso, Gaugin and Murillo, to name drop a few from recent seasons. The museum also occasionally hosts major traveling exhibitions.

The Kimbell Art Museum itself is also a work of art. Designed by Louis Kahn and opened in 1972, the building is world-renowned for Kahn’s use of natural light to illuminate the artwork. As a result of the museum outgrowing this oft-describe “perfect space,” an annex designed by Renzo Piano is scheduled to open in 2013.

There isn’t a bad seat in the house at the Meyerson Symphony Center

Dallas’ I.M. Pei is located downtown in the Dallas Arts District and is worth a looksee even if you don’t have tickets to one of their events. Due to the world-class acoustics of the concert hall at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. The Meyerson is home to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, the Dallas Wind Symphony (DSO), the Turtle Creek Chorale and the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra. The DSO is the Meyerson’s primary tenant, presenting over 180 concerts a year. The Dallas Wind Symphony also upholds excellence in music and watching conductor Jerry Junkin is nearly as entertaining as the concerts.

Voodoo Chile is the thrift shop to end all thrift shops

This small, psychedelic thrift shop located off Greenville Ave (around the corner from the Libertine) is the place to go when you’re bored with all the other thrift shops. It’s jam-packed with curiosities galore, from artistically crazy masks to vinyl to racks of vintage clothes and anything else you would never think you needed to buy. Don’t be fooled by the small exterior; there is no lack of merchandise. You could spend hours in this place searching for objects that lurk in the shadows. The merch is also constantly changing, so each visit proves to be a new experience. It’s a true hoarder’s delight.

A View From the Washington Monument

What else stands more proudly than the Washington Monument which overlooks the entire District of Columbia?

This prominent structure marks the skyline of Washington, DC since 1884 and was built to commemorate President George Washington’s military leadership during the American Revolution.

Standing 555’5’’ feet tall, the Egyptian obelisk offers an unobstructed view of the city for over thirty miles.

For a bird-eye view glimpse of the District, reserve tickets at the National Park Service website, but reserve early since it is peak season from April to September and the tickets are very much in demand.

Shh… Free tickets for same-day visitors can be obtained on a first-come-first –serve basis from the Washington Monument Lodge at 8:30 am.

Finding Asia at the The Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery

The Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery is the Smithsonian Institute’s National Museum of Asian Arts. It features intricate Japanese screens with cranes, colorful cloisonné, and Chinese calligraphies. Other than these historical beauties, the true star of the permanent collection is the breath-taking Peacock Room.

Originally, the Peacock Room was once a lavish dining room of a wealthy British gentlemen, but was relocated for display at the Freer Gallery. Take some time to examine the intricate collection of Chinese blue-and-white porcelain bowls and vases from the Qing Dynasty.
Perching on the wall are wooden shutters and leather wall hangings of peacocks in rich, dark blue and gold, displaying their plumes in pride.

In addition to the promotion of Asian arts, the Gallery also hosts an ongoing series of public programs of concerts, films, and even special lectures.

Party Up with the DJs at Fur

You a fan of Kaskade? Tiesto? Deadmau5? Or even the renowned Pauly D from Jersey Shore? If so, Fur nightclub is the spot to watch out for.

Not only hosting special artists all over the world, Fur also features an enormous dance floor, intimate and fashionable lounges, a smoke-free balcony, theme rooms, and even a late-night espresso bar and café,

On the weekends, Fur offers at least four DJs spinning divergent music in various sections of the huge club, which is formerly a storage warehouse.

This club definitely won’t disappoint the people who want to dance the night away till the wee hours of the morning. Check out the website at furnightclub.com .

Insider Tip: It’s worth it to arrive early on nights with special DJ appearances since lines do get kind of long..

Tobacconists Unite at Georgetown Tobacco

Georgetown Tobacco completes the lifestyle of tobacco enthusiasts.

With two walk-in humidors filled with regular or flavored and infused cigars, this tobacco shop offers a great selection, in fact, too many for your own good. Either it be cigars or pipes, this unique shop offers a wide array of styles and prices.

Other than smokes, Georgetown Tobacco also sells an eclectic collection of goods such as Venetian carnival masks, cuff-links, and even carved wooden decorations,

Don’t be shy at the store. Any questions you have about tobacco or any of the neat merchandises the shop carries, feel free to ask.

Just walk around, buy a cigar, light up, and enjoy the pleasant visit. Visit gttobacco.com for more information.

A Healthier Option: Foggy Bottom Farmer’s Market

Looking to be a healthier eater in Washington, DC?

The Foggy Bottom Market is conveniently located by the Foggy Bottom Metro Station. Open from 2 – 7 pm, don’t forget to visit the market on your way home from work or from class.

Foggy Bottom farmers bring their prized premium pickings of field fruits, fresh vegetables, organic and grass-fed meat, gourmet bread and handmade cheeses, flowers, dips, organic apple cider, and even freshly made Taiwanese pulled-pork buns to tickle your taste buds.

Shh… The market is seasonal and only opens on Wednesdays, April to November! Click here for more information.

Order your usual at The Usual

Have you ever wanted to try an Old Fashioned? The Usual off Magnolia offers up prohibition-era cocktails in a slick venue with uber mod design. Drinks to check out include the Jimador (a spicy tequila concoction), the Old Fashioned (naturally) and their Aviation (three words: creme de violette). Drink prices are a little high starting at $6, but everything is top shelf so it’s actually a steal. The venue is also non-smoking, a breath of fresh air compared to most of Fort Worth’s watering holes. You can even order food at neighboring Nonna Tata’s and ask them to bring it to you at The Usual, a welcome relief from Nonna Tata’s extraordinarily small space. Please bring a sober driver; those prohibitionists didn’t mess around.

Peacock Garden Cafe: Garden setting evokes Grove feel

It’s great to see a place like Peacock Garden Cafe open up in Coconut Grove especially nestled in a beautiful garden next to the historic Coconut Grove library on McFarlane Road. The claw-footed tub filled with dirt and used as an herb garden and colorful dangling orchids and potted plants make for a memorable entrance.

They’ve set the mood for what’s to come, an outdoor patio bursting with more foliage that surrounds the old-style furniture and umbrellas galore providing even more shade. Inside’s just as charming with mix and match tables and chairs, oversized windows providing plenty of sunshine and antique white glass chandeliers.

The atmosphere perfectly complements the menu. There’s a daily soup including fresh corn, potato-leek or fennel. A number of fresh salads like pear and bleu cheese or classic Nicoise salad and grilled items featuring roasted chicken, large shrimp or Atlantic salmon which come paired choice of salad or side dish.

The Peacock Garden Cafe is located at 2889 McFarlane Road, Coconut Grove 305-774-3332, www.peacockspot.com Open everday at 11:30 a.m., close at 10 p.m. Sun-Wed and 11:30 p.m. Thurs-Sat

String a Strand in the Southport Corridor

The Southport corridor isn’t just about clothing boutiques. String A Strand joined the neighborhood this Spring and offers a variety of beads, gems, and stones to make–as the store’s name implies–a strand of jewelry. The store first opened on Wells Street in Old Town, and the owners were approached about opening another store on Southport. They jumped at the chance, and now both locations offer individual beads as well as pre-grouped ones for those who want some help making their own. All of the beads come in all shape and sizes, as well as different colors at only 25 cents a piece. String a Strand also sells already-made jewelry.

Garcia’s serves freshest seafood with a Miami waterview

Situated along the Miami River on the winding road called NW N River Drive is Garcia’s Seafood Grille and the location is perfect for a place that serves fresh fish they catch from their own fleet of boats.

See Garcia’s is both restaurant and marketplace so diners here know that they can’t get food that’s any fresher than here. Their smoked fish dip, which is complimentary and brought out immediately for folks to snack on is delectable. Probably best though not to load up on this since there are so many incredible options to choose from off the menu.

Try their dolphin (mahi mahi) or grouper, one of the many fish choices they serve up grilled, blackened, sauteed as either a sandwich or meal. Crab cakes make great appetizers and the conch fritters are quite tasty too. Their shrimp dishes and of course stone crabs make for a good choice too. They’re really spot on with their menu here. 

Garcia’s Seafood Grill and Market is located at 398 NW N River Dr. 305-375-0765, www.garciasseafoodgrill.com

http://garciasseafoodgrill.com/

Lizzie McNeill’s: Not just for St. Patrick’s Day

Lizzie McNeill’s may be a decidedly Irish bar, but it’s location along the Chicago river makes it the perfect spot to hang out in the warmer Chicago months, too. Escape the hubbub of Navy Pier and relax with a local or imported beer on not one, but two patios right on the river. The patios, in fact, just about double the size of the lively night spot that’s actually open at 11:00 a.m. every day of the week. When not enjoying the sunshine, Lizzie McNeill’s offers all the sports games indoors on TV, as well as shuffleboard and board games.

5 and Diamond Restaurant with Ereka Vetrini

This Harlem Restaurant is upscale casual with large windows, sexy lighting, vibrant floral arrangements and soft jazzy music in the background. Dine alone at the intimate bar, or enjoy a drink or meal while watching your favorite sports event. Come with friends and family to celebrate, or have a romantic dinner for two. Just remember to leave enough room for the decadent desserts, all made in-house.

Milk

Milk in Meatpacking District is the place where magic happens. Some of the most important magazines such as Vogue, GQ, Cosmopolitan, Esquire, or Rollin Stones and the most influential ad campaigns are all shot in there. Milk is a factory for beauty, fashion, coolness. During the spring and fall fashion week, Milk hosts many fashion shows, followed by hip after-parties, attended by celebrities, and the industry’s most influential figures. The first floor’s spacious gallery exhibits almost weekly today’s most sought after artists and photographers. The opening night of these exhibits is a place where New Yorkers gather to have cocktails, and put on a show.
Milk is located at 450 West 15th Street.

Clic is Chic

With locations in the most high-end places on Earth: Soho NY, East Hampton, St.Barts and Cannes, Clic is a charming gallery mostly focused on photography. Their location on Broom Street New York exhibits some of the most sought after photographers, and hosts hip events, attended by New York’s elite. Clic was in fact founded in 2008 by the fashion Guru – Christiane Celle. They also sell a large variety of art books, photo books, and rare autographed copies, turning Clic into a classy bookstore in addition to the respected art gallery. In Clic you will be able to see legendary photographs by Patrick Demarchelier or Elliot Erwitt. So, if you love photography, art, or beauty in general, make a stop at Clic.

Ink48: drinks, fun people, and a view

The 16th floor of the hotel Ink48 offers a spectacular surprise: a glamorous bar with unbelievable Manhattan and Hudson River views. The lounge is glass-enclosed for a full visual experience of the city, and they also have an enormous deck with outdoor seating, and comfy chairs. You can pick from a variety of wines, crafted cocktails, and delicious nibbles. The crowd is mixed: hotel guests, business men, plus hip and fun New Yorkers. So forget about the Empire State Building, I can assure you that New York City can’t look any better than from the top of the classy Ink48 Hotel.
Ink 48 is located at 653 Eleven avenue.

The Ace Hotel

I want to invite you to a very unique…lobby, because that’s what this bar slash restaurant slash coffee place slash library is – the lobby of the Ace Hotel. This place is great at any time of the day. In the afternoon you can bring your computer (free wireless internet) and work over a great cup of coffee, you can also grab a snack with friends and relax in their wingback chairs or leather loveseats, and at night put most hip clothes one, because the Ace turns into a popular bar with a tight door. They also have a fun photo boot – I already have an impressive collection of photos (just $5 each). And if you are on the go, just get a coffee at the Stumptown (located in their lobby as well).

Bocca di Bacco

This charming Italian venue, called Bocca di Bacco, manages to stand even in the competitive restaurant scene of Hell’s Kitchen. Even though they call themselves a wine bar, explained by the generous selection of 40 wines by the glass and around 500 by the bottle, I personally consider Bocca di Bocca a fabulous restaurant, with an amazing Northern Italian cuisine. The space is stunning.  Mostly made of wood, with brick walls, and dimmed light, this is one of Hell’s Kitchen’s most romantic spots. If you pass by Eights avenue and 54th street, you are probably not going to miss it. Their majestic wooden door made me walk in Bocca di Bacco for the first time.

The Dutch

I would like to introduce you all to this new Soho gem: The Dutch restaurant. Located in the old Cub Room space on Sullivan and Prince, Dutch is charming, welcoming, and their dishes are fabulous. The fairly large restaurant is decorated with giant globe lights, vintage mirrors, wood, and an unique eight-stool oyster bar. The best part is the back room with a working fireplace, and a private dinning room in the basement (reservation are required). On the Dutch’s generous menu you will find seasonal green market salads, good steaks, delicious sandwiches, a great fried chicken, seafood, and amazing pies. The Dutch is great for dinner, but lunch and late nights also.

Christian Louboutin – because your feet are worth it!

It is said that every woman needs a little black dress. True! However, I would like to add: every woman needs a pair of Louboutin…or more. Christian Loubutin – the God of all shoes and spoiled legs, no longer needs my modest introduction. This is simply an anthem for the high-heels which can make even my legs look fabulous. Being recognized as the high-end shoe designer who brought stilettos back into fashion, Christian Loubutin is probably one of those brands which will never die. Therefore, despite their outrageous price, every pair of Louboutins can be seen as a smart investment. In New York City, there are two stores – one on Madison, and a very chic one at 59 Horatio, in the West Village. At both locations you will find a friendly staff, and a variety of perfect stilettos.

West End Cinema – Where Stories Are Told

The West End Cinema is a quiet sanctuary for unique movie lovers for non-mainstream type of films. Doesn’t matter if you prefer to watch the current blockbusters, venture into foreign films such as Kurosawa’s black-and-white samurai epics, or reminisce the beauty of Audrey Hepburn, this independent art house cinema constantly provides new genres for your choosing.

Not only exposing Washingtonians to a more eclectic selection of art house films, West End Cinema also pampers by offering a full bar and a wide range of concessions, from popcorn to confectionaries, to even gourmet sandwiches.

Come and Take your pick – whatever s tickle your fancy.

Start the summer in style with Cynthia Rowley

If you are strolling around the West Village one of these hot days, don’t hesitate to stop by one of my favorite stores in New York City: Cynthia Rowley, for a refreshing shopping experience.  This charming store is located in the West Village, on Bleecker and Perry.  What I found impressing when visiting Cynthia Rowley for the first time is that they are manufacturing some of their clothing in a unit just above the store.  Cynthia’s dresses (what she mostly focuses on) are vibrantly colored, summery, fun, and made out of easy, comfortable fabrics.  You can also find a wide selection of hip, colorful accessories.  In a couple of words: everything you need to start this summer in style.

Girl & the Goat: as good as everyone says it is

To get a reservation in the famed Stephanie Izard restaurant, Girl and the Goat, it’s true: you’ll need to call ahead by at least four months. Even for an outdoor alfresco table. But, the wait is worthwhile for this award-winning gourmet food experience.

While Izard’s style is all about fusion cooking, there’s definitely a focus on meat and seafood pairings. And really when Izard mixes two ingredients? Eat them at the same time, because there’s a reason she paired them together. They’re good separate, but amazing together.

Insider’s Tip: That pig face on the menu? It’s incredibly tasty, but don’t expect a swine to be looking at you from across the table.