Tag Archives: classy

A Great Gatsby Gables at Grand Biltmore Hotel

The Florida of yesteryear, the 1920s to be exact, is what the Biltmore Hotel, the grand estate property of Coral Gables, represents. This place is a true escape to another era, a la Great Gatsby, with lawns and greenery as far as the eye can see, blended with Italian, Moorish and Spanish architectural influences. Picture this: statuesque columns leading to the ceiling arches are reminiscent of a grand church and a baby grand piano sits alongside floor to ceiling French windows and begs to be played.

Although leaving the lobby might be tough, there’s much more to explore here. For dining there are four excellent options, with each one better than the next: award-winning Palme d’Or, the Italian courtyard restaurant Fontana, casual al fresco Cascade Grill, and the 19th Hole that overlooks the stellar Biltmore Golf Course. The Cellar Wine Club offers 100 wines by the glass and an intimate club-like setting. The rooms and suites are adorned with European feather bedding and Egyptian cotton duvet covers, custom-designed furniture in the seating areas, tile flooring and picture perfect windows overlooking the grounds and pool.

And if that weren’t enough luxury wrapped up in the Biltmore, there’s always the spa. The airy room filled with candles, comfy lounge chairs, beds and a gorgeous tiled spa tub, is a sanctuary for facial treatments, body scrubs, wraps, manis, pedis and all important massages. Complete the spa day with a luscious brunch, a long-time favorite for locals and guests.

Sperry-Topsider Brings American Classics to Dallas

Preppy is back in a big way this year, and nothing says classic chic more than Sperry-Topsider. Since 1935, this company has been bringing comfortable, colorful footwear that is associated with those who yacht and play tennis at the club. Now, Sperry brings their high-brow value and style to Northpark Center in Dallas, it’s only Texas boutique. These kicks are no longer just the nautical fare the brand is so closely identified with. Metallics, bright colors, creative embellishments…all these fun additions make for a prepster’s fashion obsession. If you want to wear a piece of American history and also have feet that will thank you, then join the cool kids at Sperry-Topsider.

Cafeina: Wynwood’s lounge of choice for locals

Stroll down 23rd Street in the heart of Wynwood’s Arts District and an orange sign with the word Cafeina will undoubtedly stand out since it’s hanging in front of a non-descript building in the mostly warehouse-filled district.

Step in though and it’s anything but. Part lounge/restaurant/gallery, Cafeina is many things to many people. Sure it’s all three but as a lounge it is the type of place that the locals love and is a great discovery for those not in the know.

The action here happens both indoors, among dimly lit chandeliers and candlelight on comfy chairs, and outdoors where the dance floor shares space with lovely patio furniture and even hammock beds. The DJ here knows how to mix the perfect blend of club/dance music that sets the mood and matches the vibe.

Cafeina is located at 297 NW 23 St., Miami, FL 305-438-0792 www.cafeinamiami.com

Louis Vuitton: Exclusively carried by only a few

There’s something about carrying around that handbag with the LV insignia all over it. The matching keychain, wallet, luggage and other accessories make for an even bigger fashion statement.

The Louis Vuitton name still carries that element of panache and so the company likes to keep it that way. Their stores can only be found in the most exclusive of stores around Miami. Aventura Mall in the northern part of Miami, The Village of Merrick Park in Coral Gables, Dadeland Mall in the south end of Miami . The latest announcement is that LV will open a free-standing store in the hip Design District so that’s another one to look forward to. No worries either, these are not typical malls because of course LV would only be sold in very high-end shops which these are.

To find these exclusive spots where LV is sold visit www.louisvuitton.com and check the store locator section of the website.

Classic Carolina Herrera threads at Village of Merrick Park

The Village of Merrick Park in Coral Gables is a classy, upscale, chic and elegant shopping venue (this is no mall) and that’s why classic and iconic fashion designer Carolina Herrera chose the venue for her store.

Evoking the Mediterranean feel that makes the Gables unique, Merrick Park is open-air and features lushly landscaped tropical gardens and fountains throughout and is truly a shopping destination. Having the legendary Herrera choose this as the home for one of her stores is the perfect fit.

The store features both men’s and women’s fashions in what could only be described as the fashion designer’s instantly recognizable clean line and timeless look. Fashionistas who need a jolt of that in their closet will certainly find it here. Her signature CH fragrance for women is also available here.

The Village of Merrick Park is located at 358 San Lorenzo Ave., Coral Gables 305-448-3333 www.villageofmerrickpark.com

Christian Louboutin: Clickety clack in high fashion heels

Seems like the Miami Design District is on everyone’s radar with many high-end boutiques to furniture/accessory stores opening in the area, many of which attract celebrities, designers and fashionistas.

Now lovers of bag and shoe designer Christian Louboutin rejoice with the opening of a boutique in the heart of the area. The clickety clack of women wearing the signature shoes with the rich, red colored soles will be heard far and wide. The boutique itself is a fascinating structure with lovely, fuzzy plants and flowers growing from the top facade.

Inside, everything including flats, pumps, evening shoes, wedges, platforms and boots are available as well as a collection of day and evening bags. For day the bags are slightly larger while clutches make up a majority of the evening bag choices. And he actually does make sneakers for both men and women too.

Christian Louboutin Miami is located at 155 NE 40 Street, Miami, FL

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Five-Star Dining at Mandarin’s Azul Restaurant

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Preparing a delectable menu that fuses Asian, Mediterranean and even some New England influences, Chef Clay Conley makes dining at Azul in the five-star Mandarin Oriental an unforgettable experience. The bayviews alone from the restaurant could be considered inspiration enough, but the dishes are certainly prepared with a loving touch and passion for food that Conley’s been honing for years now.

Perfecting his culinary skills at famed chef Todd English’s restaurant, the food here is innovative, creative and of the highest quality, with many ingredients flown in fresh daily from around the globe. The variety is immense with offerings, like Nantucket Bay Scallops, Moroccan-inspired Lamb, Peruvian Style Ceviche and a catchy appetizer simply called A Study in Tuna that’s Asian-inspired.

In keeping with the classiness of the place, Azul is one of the few Miami restaurants offering diners a finishing cheese course in a variety of sizes.

Boutique Betsy Hotel’s a Classic and Eco-Friendly Charmer

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Sitting on the breezy porch of the Betsy Hotel on Miami Beach’s most famous stretch of road- Ocean Drive-this hotel is a standout structure with a colonial non-Art Deco look and an environmentally conscious green program throughout the property, something they’re proud to flaunt.

It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and this beauty deserves the recognition. While its traditional look is intact, it still has its South Beach touches. An inviting secluded courtyard pool beckons with an enclosed pool deck and plenty of amenities or there’s the rooftop retreat deck for unbeatable ocean views. Plantation style shutters, black walnut hardwood floors, walk-in showers, comfy custom built poster beds, and sunny colors make the suites and classic rooms an inviting place to relax and take in the views; staring at the swaying palm trees across the street and seeing endless ocean views is why they call this place paradise.

And when it’s time to eat, BLT Steak is where it’s at, with delectable items prepared by award-winning Chef Laurent Tourondel, whose skills have been praised by both Bon Appetit and Food and Wine Magazines.

Bistro One LR does American to Perfection

Swanky Bistro One LR at the Ritz Carlton on South Beach is doing contemporary American fare right and the food’s as beautiful as the oceanfront setting. Chef Bernardo Espinel brings his flair and passion to the creative dishes on the menu making for a delectable dining experience.

Chef Espinel’s been perfecting his culinary skills, working at several restaurants around Miami and New York, whose reputation and success earned him the present chef de cuisine status. It’s obvious he’s someone who loves to keep evolving in the kitchen as the menu is chock full of unique dishes, like Lamb Chop and Merguez Meatballs with Pear, Cardamom and Pearl Onions; Pan Seared King Crab with Green Papaya, Chilies and Lime; and Wild Scottish Salmon with Tomato Chutney, Basmati Rice and Brown Mustard. They even go the extra mile at Bistro One, suggesting wine pairings with each dish.

Insider’s Tip: On Sundays, make sure to wash away that wild Miami weekend of partying with Bistro One’s brunch, that includes a flowing champagne and Bloody Mary Bar.

Posh and Indulgent at Barclay Prime

When you order a cut of beef at most steakhouses, the server just asks, “baked potato or mashed?” but when the server at Barclay Prime also gives you a selection of German and Japanese knives in order to cut your prime beef, you know you’re getting a unique and glamorous twist on the traditional steakhouse.

Set inside the chic 1929 Barclay building in Rittenhouse Square, this new Stephen Starr masterpiece is as aged and rich as the top quality NY strip being served. Before diving in to your meal, have a martini- Mad Men style- in the mahogany, 1960’s boutique-inspired bar. After, indulge with traditional steakhouse favorites, from every cut of beef imaginable to decadent a la carte sides such as truffle mac & cheese. Yummy seafood is offered for the less carnivorous ones, along with some contemporary American treats- the Kobe Beef Sliders being a favorite. If indulgence and luxury is what you’re seeking for the evening, you will find this posh spot completely worth the trip!

Breathtaking Bay Views at Mandarin Oriental Miami

Using the available waterfront in Miami is always a plus and the Mandarin Oriental is one spot where ocean views are put to perfect use. Built alongside Biscayne Bay and with rooms, suites, dining and amenities (it’s got the city’s only five-star spa) to make other hotels envious, this place has it all…and more.

Filled with floor to ceiling windows along the lobby floor, the bay views are unbeatable and breathtaking. They’re visible from just about any vantage point. Head upstairs to the room floors and find luxurious suites that feature fully furnished living rooms with hardwood floors, area rugs and a city view visible through sliding glass doors that lead to a sprawling balcony. The spa suite has a spa tub that towers over the hardwood floors, and is perfectly named the Spa Serenity Room.

For great grub, grab a bite indoors or out at the casual Cafe Sambal or something fancier at the signature Azul Restaurant. For a bit of relaxation, swing on a hammock by the resort’s private beach and nearby Brickell offers all the nightlife necessary with bars and nightclubs everywhere.

Diverse Drama & Dance at Deco Colony Theater

Whether it’s laughing the night away at a comic’s jokes or watching dancers soar and leap across the stage, Colony Theater is the place to catch a wealth of diverse entertainment. The calendar is packed with something for everyone with groups like Miami Lyric Opera, Miami Contemporary Dance Company and New World School of the Arts Music Department presenting world-class performances. The venue has also become a hot bed for controversial plays and shows by Latin American artists, making headlines in the past year with attention-grabbing presentations.

Watching a show here is like stepping back in time. The marquee and Colony Theater lettering are in Art Deco style and the look continues inside throughout the foyer with a multi-patterned terrazo floor, vintage chandeliers and a grand stage framed in Deco-inspired moldings. The theater may be inspired by the roaring 20s, but what’s showing inside is fresh, new and in the moment.

French Riviera Glamour at Award-Winning Palme d’Or

Mention the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables to anyone in the greater Miami area and the words classic, elegant, sophisticated and swanky will undoubtedly be repeated. So it’s fitting that the French restaurant Palme d’Or would be the hotel’s signature eatery. Featuring a menu brimming with French nouvelle creations by chef Philippe Ruiz, the cuisine is #1 with Zagat (it swept the Top Food, Decor and Service honors in the 2010 guide) and the Miami Herald critics have twice ranked it “exceptional.”

Stated clearly on the menu is the chef’s recommendation of at least three to four courses. Suggested options include sauteed Maine scallop, grilled duck foie gras, wild mushroom cassolette, seven-hour braised beef effilochee, and for dessert, a new twist on the strawberry shortcake.

Palme D’Or also has a wide selection of vegetarian dishes, an enviable wine list and a theater menu available only from 6-7 pm for those catching a show in the area. And how fitting since that’s what the entire Biltmore experience recalls, the glamorous Cannes Film Festival, where this restaurant deserves its own Palme d’Or for best restaurant experience.

Fillmore at Jackie Gleason Theater is South Beach’s Gem

The gem of South Beach performance spaces, the Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater, has had several name changes, but the quality of performers and the elegant, commanding presence of the space is everlasting. The grandiose theater is treasured by locals and the many performers who grace its stage.

So beloved is the Fillmore, it recently underwent a massive renovation to restore it to its original beauty, and added some modern touches that brought it into the 21st century. The exterior is all Art Deco, with geometric lines and blue pastel coloring. The interior, though, is a cross between 1920’s elegance and a modern club scene, like the ornate grand crystal chandeliers that are hued with purple lighting.

Any artist would want to grace such a majestic stage, and they do, from all genres and eras. Where else does legendary singer Stephen Stills of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, indie rockers Arctic Monkeys, and comedian Chelsea Handler of the “Chelsea Lately” late night talk show appear in the same venue? It all comes together at the Fillmore Miami Beach.

Glitz and Grammy’s for The San Francisco Symphony

For the Vivian and Edward in all of us (Pretty Woman fans?), your romantic evening awaits at the San Francisco Symphony. With eleven Grammy wins, this ensemble features the most talented musicians in the world and is appropriately situated in the magnificent Davies Symphony Hall, which neighbors the Opera House and Capitol Buildings of the Civic Center.

Whether an anniversary, Valentine’s Day, or birthday, the San Francisco Symphony continues to excite and lure even the most jaded of guests to fall in love with classical music year-round. The Symphony’s passion for music and award-winning Chorus & Youth Orchestra will inspire you to not just listen to the music, but emotionally become part of the experience.

Davies Symphony Hall even offers a free after-hours party for some of its concerts, allowing you to enjoy popular bay area music in a nightclub atmosphere. The folks at SFS really know music, from classical to contemporary, and hope to inspire the same appreciation in their guests, even if it requires drinks and socializing from the balconies that offer spectacular views of City Hall.

Chic France Meets Exotic Vietnam Nights at Le Colonial

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For San Francisco’s diverse crowd, there’s nothing better than a nightclub that fuses culture as well as it mixes drinks. At Le Colonial in Union Square, romantic France meets exotic Vietnam. As evenings go in this city, rarely sticking to the conventional, you’ll fall in love even as you enter from an alley that sparkles with fairy lights and soft neon signs. Relax in the palm and glass-canopied veranda while you wait for your party, or head inside to the downstairs lounge and order yourself an Emerald Buddha: Ciroc Vodka, House Lemongrass sour, and Barritt’s ginger beer on the rocks.

Le Colonial presents local DJ’s on Friday nights and the very popular Lotus Party on Saturdays. Spinning remixes from every generation until 2am with a “for the classy and chic only” dress code, there are no excuse to be a wallflower.

Avenue of the Arts: A Stretch of Culture Across Philly

The Avenue of the Arts runs through the heart of Philadelphia on Broad Street, the city’s widest and busiest street. To say that this area is saturated with culture is an understatement- museums, theaters, restaurants, performing arts venues, universities, you name it, it’s there. The Avenue is a great place to visit because it’s easy to get to (lots of parking garages on the Avenue as well as accessible public transportation) and is always bustling with foot traffic.

The busiest and most affluent area of the Avenue is on South Broad, starting from Philly’s beautiful City Hall to Lombard Street, where you will find many of the city’s major theaters like the Academy of Music, Merriam Theatre, and Wilma Theater. When meandering down the Avenue, you can stop along the way and catch the building tours at many of the venues. Be sure to look on the Avenue of the Arts website for a listing of all the shows happening at all venues!

Take advantage of all that there is to do- and see- on this beautiful Avenue in the heart of Philadelphia.

Swanky in the Museum at Art After 5

If you’re from Philadelphia, you’ve been to Art After 5. On Fridays the Philadelphia Museum of Art in all its splendor keeps its doors open later than usual (till 8:45pm) for food and drink specials, dancing, music, and gallery browsing.

If you’re there for the music, make sure to get there close to 5pm to snag a good seat in the Great Stair Hall, which might be one of the coolest rooms you’ve ever seen.

If you’re there for the gallery, grab your cocktail and get ready to view some of Philadelphia’s finest with a fraction of the crowd, and great background music to boot. If you’d like to know more about the art with a guide, tours are offered throughout the evening for no additional charge.

Whether you’ve been to the Art Museum or not, Art After 5 is a fantastic way to see the museum in a relaxing and stylish way.

Definition for Fine Dining at Four Seasons Restaurant

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Other restaurants have incredible statues, but the Four Seasons has a bubbling pool as its centerpiece, one example of how this fine dining landmark establishment stands out above the rest. Complete with stand-by jackets for those who come unprepared for the formal dress code, the Four Seasons is home to celebrity clientele and the who’s who of power New Yorkers.

Known as the go-to “Power Lunch” hotspot in Manhattan, at night the elegant crowd dines on award-winning American cuisine that – true to its name- is prepared from the freshest seasonal ingredients. The Four Seasons is the ultimate upscale New York experience, and so beloved by its regular patrons, that it was awarded the “Favorite Restaurant in the World” by Town & Country Magazine.

Nobody Does it Like Noir

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If you’re looking for a sexy spot to grab a drink then head over to the sultry lounge known as Noir at The Charles Hotel in Cambridge’s Harvard Square. The red and black interior accents reflect the decadent atmosphere of 1940s nightlife. Noir has been named best bar and lounge by Boston Magazine and has also been featured in Food & Wine. One of the most popular drinks is “Noir’s Boudoir,” a creamy mix of vanilla, chocolate and coffee liquors. In the summer months, the bar opens up its patio where guests can be seen sipping on fruity concoctions from the “Film Noir” section such as the LA Confidential, a blend of Stoli Vanila, Cointreau, peach nectar and champagne. Order up some light snacks like the marinated olives or flatbread to complement the fabulous drinks. Visit noir-bar.com for more information.

Insider’s Tip: Stop by Monday through Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. to sample the 5-4-3-2-1-0 menu, which includes $5 flatbreads, $4 sandwiches, $3 snacks, $2 salads, $1 sweets and $0 nuts. (There is a $6 minimum beverage purchase per guest).

Start The Weekend Right At Friday LIVE

Food and drink specials? Check. Gorgeous venue? Check. Fantastic free live music? Check! The Kimmel Center’s Friday LIVE series has all that and more Friday evenings on its Commonwealth Plaza stage (that’s in the spectacular main lobby, which is worth the visit in itself).

The Philadelphia music scene is huge, and the Kimmel Center showcases these local talents from 5:30-7:15pm every Friday throughout its season. Rock, funk, classical, straight-away jazz – you name it- they’ve got it. Friday LIVE is a great way to see this beautiful venue, built in 2001 on the Avenue of the Arts, without committing to purchasing a ticket.

The bar serves drink specials and appetizers, ideal for a happy hour visit before going out to eat at one of the many restaurants in walking distance. Supporting local arts is always a good thing, so you may as well do it in this fabulous performing arts center. If you want to check out the performances before you go, they’re all listed on the website.

See & Be Seen at Parc

One of the newest editions to Stephen Starr’s empire- of Buddakan and Morimoto fame- is Parc. This chic restaurant allows a bit of escape while still soaking in the beauty and bustle of Rittenhouse Square. Parc pays homage to the brasseries of Paris, doing so with its own charm and style.

In the upcoming winter, warm up at the large zinc bar inside with one of their signature and delicious cocktails. When the weather starts to warm, you’ll be lucky to snag a seat at the outdoor bistro tables that are prime for people watching.

Parc serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week, and with everything from a delicious brioche french toast with apples and hazelnut butter to a classic steak frites, there’s not much you can go wrong with on this all-star menu.

No matter what time or what season, there’s no reason to miss out on this popular, chic café. Vive la France!

Chef Kent Rathbun Brings Global Cuisine to Abacus Restaurant

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If it’s fine dining you’re after, look no further than Abacus Restaurant. This Texas gem boasts award-winning chef Kent Rathbun’s contemporary global cuisine. As you bask in the glow of the softly lit dining room with its rich textural finishes, you can choose between plates big and small. Or head over to the bar and still sample some delicious dishes while also enjoying a bit of the Dallas nightlife. Those in the know kick off their meal with Abacus’ famous lobster shooters. A place this good is no secret, so reservations are strongly recommended.

Westin Chicago North Shore

Located just sixteen miles north of O’Hare International Airport in the prestigious North Shore district, The Westin Chicago North Shore in Wheeling, Illinois blends style and elegance with the convenience of a full-service hotel. A total of 35,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space makes Westin the perfect choice for weddings, conferences, and banquets. In addition to the 14,825-square foot Ravinia Grand Ballroom, the largest on the North Shore, our hotel boasts three junior ballrooms, each measuring approximately 5,000 square feet. Complimentary self-parking is also available for all guests.

Millenium Hotel

Step into Modern Luxury in the Heart of Times Square. The Premier Hotel offers travelers an upscale retreat within walking distance to the best of Broadway, Fifth Avenue shopping, midtown business destinations and fine dining. Enjoy skyline views from 125 smart, sophisticated rooms that showcase clean-lined architecture and an elegant muted color palette. With just seven rooms per floor, The Premier Hotel features studio-like accommodations including oversized bathrooms equipped with large vanities, European soaking tubs and separate showers.

Gem Hotel SoHo

This New York City boutique hotel is conveniently located in the neighborhood of SoHo. This trendy Manhattan neighborhood is filled with chic art galleries, night club hotspots, world-famous restaurants, shopping and more. Spend an afternoon strolling the local neighborhoods and attractions such as Nolita, Chinatown, Little Italy, Canal Street and New York University (NYU). You can admire the art galleries and upscale boutiques within SoHo, or enjoy the East Village’s excellent cafes and restaurants. The Lower East Side, once a first stop for poor immigrants and crammed with crowded tenements, small shops and warehouses, is now home to chic restaurants and boutiques, and some of the city’s coolest night clubs, bars and music venues. Just a short subway ride, you will enjoy easy access to Wall Street, Battery Park City, South Street Seaport, Chelsea, the West Village, Tribeca and the Broadway Theatre District.