Art Love Magic brings magic to the art scene

Started by three artists looking for a better way to connect with other artists, Art Love Magic is an organization in the business of connecting; connecting emerging and established artists as well as connecting viewers with the artists and their process. They host one large gallery show a month, involving both an exhibit and an event in which attendees can watch artists at work across all media, including live music, performance and spoken word. They also host Art and Coffee on the first Friday of every month, a free event with live music and art at a local coffee shop. Check their calendar for event times and locations.

The Amsterdam Bar couples a laid back atmosphere with an excellent beer selection

The Amsterdam Bar is nestled on the strip on Exposition across from Fair Park. In addition to a laid back, cozy atmosphere they also have a choice collection of craft and import beers on tap as well as a decent selection of spirits for the non-beer snobs. Artwork by local artists adorns the wall as well as a dart board, if you feel so inclined. They have a rotating door of live music on various nights, including live jazz every Monday. If the inside is feeling a little too cozy for you, check out the large patio out back. The Amsterdam Bar does not serve food aside from a few snacks, however, you can have food delivered or bring it to-go from nearby eateries.

Make a day out of shopping in the West Village

The upscale shopping in Uptown’s West Village offers a blend of boutiques and national brand stores to the tune of Ann Taylor and Banana Republic. In an afternoon of store-hopping, shoppers can come home with anything from artisan handmade accessories or a pair of cowboy boots to business attire and a bottle of wine. The West Village also has a variety of eateries to refuel after a day of hard shopping, as well as a few watering holes and the Magnolia Theater if an indie film strikes your fancy after all that shopping. A few excellent shops to stop into are Carito Caro, Cowboy Cool, Pitaya, and Club Monaco opens for Fall 2011.

Shop, eat, and catch a flick at Mockingbird Station

Mockingbird Station is a great place to shop when you’re looking for a few of those “mall” favorites but don’t want to deal with the hassle of the mall. Pick up your necessities at Bath and Body Works, Ann Taylor, The Gap or Victoria’s Secret and then find that something extra special at one of their boutiques, such as Movida or Francesca’s collections. Mockingbird Station is home to several little restaurants to get a quick bite or post-shop cocktail, as well as the Angelika Film Center, great for checking out the latest indie flicks. It’s also conveniently located just north of downtown, right on the DART Rail stop.

Give your home an exotic touch at Wisteria

Known for their extensive catalog and specializing in exotic imported furniture and decor, Wisteria has one brick and mortar in the form of an outlet store on Cedar Springs, just across from Love Field. The outlet store is a great place to look for deals and specials, or just to check out their merch in person before making a purchase. Their warehouse-esque location is a treasure trove of beautiful furniture and home furnishings from lands far away and bursts at the seams with that “world-traveler” aesthetic. From accent pieces to furniture, Wisteria is the perfect place to find that perfect piece that brings a room together. Expect exotic pieces like bone-inlaid dressers and tables from India, trunks and Buddha statues from China, and textiles from the world over.

Fine dining + diner cuisine = R+D Kitchen

R+D Kitchen has done the seemingly impossible by turning “diner” inspired cuisine into, well, fine cuisine. The restaurant offers a posh little atmosphere with quaint patio seating and a circular bar located in the center of the restaurant. The menu is short but sweet, offering home-style favorites that are taken up a notch with quality ingredients and gourmet touches. For starters, they have a handful of sushi rolls, a cold dip duo of guacamole and pimento queso, or a plate of deviled eggs to whet your palette. The mains include creative entree salads, a few fish options, a center-cut filet and a wild mushroom meatloaf that actually comes medium rare on purpose. All mains come with home-style sides such as warm potato salad or wilted spinach. They also don a special brunch menu on Saturday and Sunday mornings.

Grab an alien-free pint at the Flying Saucer

The Flying Saucer provides another watering hole for the craft beer aficionado, with hundreds of imports, micro brews and craft beers on draft as well as some specialty bottles. While most beers are always available, they regularly rotate seasonal and new kegs, with rare tapping and glass night events during the week (buy the beer, keep the glass). The Saucer’s real claim to fame is their UFO club, in which after trying 200 different beers participants are awarded a saucer with their name and a quote on it. Scores of saucers adorn the walls from former “beer knurds” that have achieved success in beer drinking. The Flying Saucer has two locations, one in Addison and one in Sundance Square in Fort Worth. It’s worth noting that the Addison location is one of the few good places in Addison that is non-smoking (except for a small room in the back). Also worth noting is the free popcorn. Just ask for it.

Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill offers up steak house favorites cooked over a flame

Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill is a Chicago-style chop house with a wood grill and impeccable service. They offer American steak house cuisine, all cooked with the rustic, smokey flavor of a wood fire. Notable starters include the wood grilled brie fondue and the Ahi tuna nachos (for something on the lighter side). In addition to the standard selection of steaks, their 16 oz pork chop is a specialty and a favorite. Kenny’s also has a great selection of surf to go with their turf, all wood grilled to perfection (try the red chili camarones or the trout). Their specials change daily and are usually creative and excellent.

Day trip it to downtown McKinney

McKinney, about 45 miles north of Dallas, has a lovely little “old town” square that makes the perfect day trip to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city on those not-so-busy weekend days. The town center has clothing and antique boutiques, some good restaurants (including a tapas place and a steak house), a few art galleries (like Laura Moore Fine Art) and a watering hole or two. They also have seasonal events year-round, like an Oktoberfest to give Germany a run for their money and an evening of art and music every second Saturday of the month in which most local businesses keep their doors open until 7 pm. Check their calendar for details and current event listings.

Bar hop on lower Greenville Avenue

Lower Greenville Avenue in Dallas is the prime spot for your typical pub crawl. Lined with clubs, bars and restaurants, it’s situated perfectly for patrons to bar hop without having drive all over the place. Get your groove on at Zubar, try your Latin dance moves at Kismet, or fill up on cheap libations and a relaxed atmosphere at Ship’s Lounge. Lower Greenville is also host to Dallas’ famous St. Patty’s Day parade, which is basically the only street party Dallas does right. As the night winds to an end, soak up the booze with a bite at late night Mexican eatery La Casita (known to locals as “Rena’s” after the beloved owner/cook/waittress). Not a night owl? Show up earlier in the evening and check out Lower Greenville’s eclectic shops and any one of their numerous restaurants.

Relax or go for a run at White Rock Lake

Located just east of downtown, White Rock Lake is Dallas’ answer to mother nature without having to stray too far from the city. White Rock Lake provides a sanctuary with bird watching, 9.33 miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing, and picnic areas. The historic Bath House Cultural Center, located right on the shore of White Rock lake, is also a destination for viewing art by local artists and artisans. The lake is also host to Dallas’ famous annual White Rock Marathon, and is just a skip, hop and a jump from the Dallas Arboretum. For those looking for physical activity or a relaxing day with scenic views and good people watching, White Rock Lake is Dallas’ closest destination to get outdoors.

Get an authentic Neapolitan pie at Brix Pizza and Wine Bar

Brought to you by Daniele Puleo of Daniele Osteria, Brix Pizza and Wine Bar in Fort Worth serves up gourmet Neapolitan pies and classic Italian entrees with an extensive wine list at reasonable prices. The atmosphere is open yet cozy, even if you’re not sitting on the quaint little patio. For starters, the bruschetta is especially special and the hell’s kitchen fries marry tabasco and gorgonzola in a mound of starchy deliciousness. The pizza menu changes a little here and there but the pies are always inventive and tasty. A few staples include the prosciutto and spinach and the classic margherita. With two Italian chefs working the kitchen, this is about as authentic as pizza gets in America.

Get a crazy strong cocktail at The Loon

The Loon, located in the heart of Uptown, plays the role of Uptown’s quintessential “dive bar.” With an old pub-like feel, The Loon is definitely as “dive-ish” as Uptown gets. The Loon’s only drink special is a scrimpy happy hour, however, their reputation of providing a heavy handed pour means every drink is always special. They have a pretty extensive menu of bar-food staples, pizza and Italian food. Nobody really knows how good the food is because nobody eats there. Or they are already too sauced to remember. Appearance of the menu at any table usually begs the question, “They serve food here?”

Wake up to an early breakfast from the Dream Cafe

The Dream Cafe is Dallas’ quirky little breakfast spot with an inventive menu, a dog-and-kid-friendly atmosphere and excellent food. Their two locations (Uptown and Addison) serve those who live in Uptown, and those who used to live in Uptown but have now moved further from the city due to job location/kids. The Dream Cafe is also one of the few places in town to get good breakfast and brunch fare before 10 am (their doors open at 7 am daily, brunch menu is available daily). The Uptown location stays open later with a pseudo-international inspired dinner menu. A few favorites include the Santa Fe omelet, cloud cakes, the global dinner and the Mystic Pasta (think pasta tossed with brie and smoked bacon).

“Get away” from Uptown without actually leaving Uptown at the Quarter Bar

The Quarter Bar in Uptown in one of the best places to grab a pint without feeling like you’re in “Uptown.” Next door (and attached) to Breadwinners, the Quarter Bar serves the dual purpose of a waiting area for Breadwinners during their rushes. Even if you’re not waiting for a table at the neighboring bistro, the Quarter Bar has a robust beer selection at reasonable prices in a cozy, pub-like atmosphere. They also don a limited Breadwinners “bar” menu. The upstairs bar area has pool tables and video games and the rooftop patio offers a lovely view of McKinney Avenue and is also pooch friendly.

Get ‘yer western gear at the Fort Worth Stockyards

Whether you are just visiting or live in the area, spending time in DFW often warrants a need for those western, Texas-themed goods, be it leather coasters for a souvenir, over sized wooden furniture for a man cave, or Texas-shaped anything. The best cluster of western stores and boutique style shops can be found around the Fort Worth Stockyards. The various shopping establishments at the Stockyards offer western goods such as Wranglers, western antiques, furniture, boots and even saddles. While some of the merch falls into the “Texas kitsch” category, that’s kind of the point. For your more typical souvenirs, check out the giant, obvious-placed assortment of souvenir shops. For something a little more unique (like leather coasters made by a real Texas inmate), check the side roads for consignment stores and boutiques.

Ssahm BBQ: Asian fusion on wheels

Food trucks are starting to populate the streets of Dallas, and one of the first on the scene is Asian fusion truck Ssahm BBQ. Ssahm puts Korean favorites in Mexican clothing with Korean inspired tacos, burritos and quesadillas. Pick your Korean marinated meat (or tofu), pick your style (taco, burrito, or quesadilla), and they add caramelized Kimchee and fixin’s. Also available are the ever popular Kimchee fries topped with cheese. The Ssahm truck may seem elusive at first, moving locations every day for lunch and dinner, however, they have a schedule posted on their website or you can follow them on Facebook for more specifics. Come get SSahm!

Have a run at the Katy Trail

Living in the city often means you’re stuck running on sidewalks, and concrete is oh-so-hard on the knees. If you find your self Uptown, or downtown for that matter, check out the Katy Trail’s 3.5 mile track that runs from Victory Park to Airline Drive. The Katy Trail is like a tiny version of Central Park, with a tree-lined trail running right through the city offering a little sanctuary from, yet still within, the hustle and bustle of town. The Katy Trail also hosts numerous races and events through the year, check their calendar for details. Not a runner? Not a problem. Walkers, cyclers, strollers, and pets-on-leashes are all welcome to enjoy an afternoon at the Katy Trail.

Get up to 24 hours of R&R at King Spa & Sauna

King Spa and Sauna isn’t your ordinary spa. It’s a Korean style spa (aka, a spa on steroids) complete with 11 spa and sauna rooms, including an oxygen room, an ice room, and an aroma room to purify your body and rid it of toxins. Admission is $20 for a full 24 hours of sweating, soaking, and relaxation. They even offer a $3 discount for “happy hour,” 6 am – 2 pm Monday through Thursday. King Spa also offers body scrubs and massages for an extra fee. In addition to the spa rooms, their facilities include computer rooms with wifi access, pools and even a food court serving traditional Korean specialties. If you’re planning on showing up in the wee hours of the morning, check their website or call ahead as some of their facilities close during the night for cleaning and maintenance. Also note that men and women spa separately.

Chill like an expat at the Londoner

The Londoner in Addison is DFW’s go-to place for a UK style sesh. Even the outside of the building screams, “Pub!” The draft selection has UK favorites as well as a few local-ish choices for good measure and they even have a decent selection of Scotch. Their menu offers traditional English fare, including Chicken Tikki Masala, shepherd’s pie and bangers and mash. The Londoner also shows all the European soccer matches (at least all the ones that have available coverage) that area expats congregate to like flies to… well you get it. Their patio is ample and dog friendly. Who wants a pint?

Put on something vintage at Puttin’ on the Ritz

Every vintage-clothing connoisseur goes through the same weary task of rifling through racks at vintage stores in hopes of finding that one little upscale gem that’s been overlooked. This treasure hunt can be frustrating and (pun intended) wearing. Look no further, my friends. Puttin’ on the Ritz in Snider Plaza specializes in vintage collections up to a hundred years old including 20th century wedding dresses and even some classic designer labels from collections of decades passed. This is no second hand store of hand-me-downs, Puttin’ on the Ritz brings you vintage shopping at its finest. While the vintage designer clothing can cost into the thousands, you can still find some good buys in the $20 and up range to give your wardrobe a nod to those fashion trends that keep resurfacing through the test of time.

Fall 2012 Fashion Week Wrap N2K

For Fall Fashion 2012, the looks are structured and elegant. Donna Karan shows strong shoulders and belted waists. Coats ruled the runway. Her DKNY collection brings sophisticated jackets and skirts for the working woman. Sexy is back, with see-thru, body hugging dresses from Catherine Malandrino. And at Ralph Lauren, dapper menswear, with plaid jodhpurs, houndstooth coats and Fair Isle sweaters for day, and ultra-luxe satin gowns for evening.

The Woodshed will smoke almost anything

Fort Worth’s beloved Tim Love recently opened his newest venture, The Woodshed: a smokehouse right on the Trinity River with an ample patio and laid back atmosphere. While the menu dons some of the regular smokehouse expectations, what takes The Woodshed to the next level is A) a few interesting proteins (to the tune of rabbit and rattlesnake sausage or “game bird”) and B) Tim Love will smoke anything. They will throw anything in that smoker at The Woodshed, like artichoke or a whole head of cauliflower in addition to all the meats, means fantastic sides or even a vegetarian’s delight. Wait, a smokehouse? With yummy things for vegetarians? But the meat stuff is also awesome? Really? No seriously, really? Yes, my good friends. Everybody leaves happy.

Sweet Samba Spa

Sweet Samba is a hip lifestyle boutique & spa with an authentic vibe and most importantly a clean, professional environment where you can relax and unwind while enjoying the highest quality spa services. Whether you enjoy shopping the boutique, enjoying a signature Organic Facial or experiencing our award winning Brazilian waxing, Sweet Samba offers an innovative and rejuvenating experience.

Sweet Samba Spa has four locations:

Athens: 121 W. Washington St. Athens, GA 30601, Telephone: 706.543.0099

Buckhead: 3167 Peachtree Road Ste. E. Atlanta, GA 30305, Telephone: 404.869.8888

Vinings: 4600 West Village Place Suite 3001 Smyrna, GA 30080, Telephone: 770.435.5505

Midtown: 884 Monroe Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30308, Telephone: 404.347.5211

Visit sweetsamba.com for more information.

Sweetwater Brewery

Grab a few friends and join us at the brewery. Tours run about thirty minutes beginning after the doors open so that leaves plenty of time for sampling and merch shopping – just be 21 and able to prove it. A designated driver is always the smartest bet. See you there!!
The tours are free, but $10 gets you a souvenir SweetWater pint glass, with 6 sample tickets for 5.5oz samples of SweetWater’s brews.

Tex’s Tacos

Affectionately dubbed the ‘Antonio Banderas’ of food trucks, Tex’s Tacos is nothing short of suavé – a fully equipped kitchen & restaurant on wheels. Serving-up a delicious array of ‘Nueva Texicana’ eats with style and grace, we keep the good times rolling…literally. Spice up your day and embark on a friendly adventure to our taco trough. What’s there not to love about eating deliciously fresh tacos, quesadillas, & lime fries out of a truck!?!? See texstacos.com for more information and locations.

The Beehive

The beehive is a boutique collective comprised of independent designers with a focus on the local entrepreneur. Their product selection includes apparel, housewares, accessories and jewelry for everyone.

Designer owned and run, Beehive strives to provide a platform whereby new and established designers and artists may increase their brand visibility through sales, community outreach, and the ability to engage with a network of like-minded entrepreneurs.

Introducing stylish, locally designed products in a chic modern boutique setting. The beehive boasts the area’s best handmade goods, and provides customers the opportunity to directly interact and engage with the artists who made their products. Visit thebeehiveatl.com for more information.

Hyatt Regency Woodfield

To put it simply, this hotel has it all. For the business minded, take advantage of over 30,000 square feet of event space, on-site meeting planners, and A-V techs. For those who consider shopping a sport, ride the complimentary shuttle to Woodfield Shopping Center. Local attractions like Arlington Racecourse and Long Grove Historical Village are always an adventure, and the 24-hour Stay Fit Gym and seasonal outdoor whirlpool never get old. Oh, the possibilities!

Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock is a 3-tiered observation deck on the 67th, 69th, and 70th floors of Rockefeller Centre (the upper decks 260 m above the street level you get an unobstructed, 360 degree view of New York City). Enter on 50th Street between 5th and 6th Avenue.
Once up to the viewing decks, the first two levels have a low wall with large Glass screens which enable you to get great views and photographs, there are reasonable sized gaps between the screens to enable cameras to get clear shots.
The top viewing deck has no screens, just the wall and a fantastic view of Manhattan .