Tag Archives: hip

Transition from Drab to Fab with Uniform

Just when men thought their wardrobe couldn’t be trendy along comes a hot little boutique shop like Uniform. Located in the South End, this popular men’s store for contemporary clothing, skincare and accessories offers those fashion forward men a sense of style. If you are looking for a new suit, head over here where the staff will size you up and fit you in the most exquisite suit you’ve ever seen. They also carry fun T-shirts, deconstructed blazers, roll sleeve button downs, slim fit chinos, and even reversible shorts.You’ll transition from work to play in no time and look fabulous in the process. Check out the website at uniformboston.com.

SoBe’s newest hotspot Mokai already attracting celebs

Since today’s reality celebrities are always lumped in with A-listers, let’s consider Kendra Wilkinson (of reality television’s “Kendra on Top” on WE TV) stopping in at SoBe’s newest nightclub Mokai for a night of partying with girlfriends, a true celeb sighting.

 The scene at Mokai is typical South Beach. Scantily clad dancers, sometimes alone but many times in pairs (or trios), set the scene for a night of revelry and debauchery like only SoBe can deliver. DJ’s pump the house music nightly, since the nightclub scene really never dies, while bottles of bubbly pop all night in the VIP section.

Weeknight parties here have kitchy names like Ransom Mondays, Relapse Wednesdays and Weekend Warrior Fridays. On Saturdays Gino G., Mike Russ, S1 spin while Weisson plays drums.

Mokai is located at 235 23 St., Miami Beach, FL, 305-673-1409, www.mokaimiami.com

Piola’s Pizzas Bring a World of Flavor to ATL

Hidden next to RA Sushi, across the street from the Loews Hotel, Piola is truly one of Atlanta’s best kept secrets. Part of a worldwide chain originating in Italy in 1986, Piola has a laid-back, fun, international vibe. Cozy and colorful, Piola is great for unwinding alone, with friends or with a special someone. The warm and inviting atmosphere just takes the edge off the day.

Grab a seat at the bar and make a request forPicture 4 the fabulous Coconut Mojito, which is not necessarily on the menu. A must try is also the Sgroppino Al Limone, or simply lemon ice cream (well gelato) and vodka; it’s a signature drink for a reason. Happy hour is from 5pm-8pm and there are always some free appetizers to sample.

Venture past the bar for more extensive dining. Pizza- thin, brick oven style – really is the thing and the Margherita is always a winner, but it’s far from the only pizza option. Piola has Featured Piola “Pizze,” like the Rio de Janeiro with chicken, catupiry cheese, parsley, tomato sauce and mozzarella; Classic Pizze, like the Margherita; and Le Pizze Bianche, or White Pizza, which is are the classic pizzas without tomato sauce. Piola is also known for its gnocchi and hosts monthly, all-you-can-eat “Gnocchi Day.” And, for dessert, you can’t go wrong with a classic tiramisu.

When it comes to having a laid-back good time, Piola truly knows what makes the world go round.

Fifty Ultra Lounge: Viceroy Hotel’s hot spot

One of Downtown Miami’s hottest hotels is surprisingly enough, a fabulous nightclub spot. The Fifty Ultra Lounge at Viceroy Miami is stiff competition for those clubs on the other side of the Causeway (meaning South Beach).

Appropriately named for its location, the view alone is unmatched by any other club because it sits on the building’s rooftop meaning unobstructed water and skyline views as far as the eye can see. The pool, which serves as the centerpiece here, is no slouch either, adding that perfect Miami touch.

FIFTY promises to bring you a “One-of-a-kind rooftop lounge with a fresh new look on Miami’s Nightlife scene.” There’s always something happening on this rooftop with Happy Hour, guest DJ’s, special Ladies’ Night events and Sunday afternoon pool parties. Celebrities are frequently spotted here so keep your eyes peeled.

Viceroy Miami is located at 485 Brickell Avenue, 305-503-4417 www.viceroymiami.com

Dream: This is no la la land but it’s a dream

Yet another velvet rope nightclub has debuted in South Beach. This one’s called Dream and features all that’s come to be expected from a high energy, open ’til the wee hours hot spot in what’s known as the American Riviera.

Like most of the nightclubs in the area, this one’s on Washington Avenue, the hotbed strip for late night party hounds. Dream’s decadent interior is filled with obligatory disco balls, multi-colored flourescent lighting, comfy tufted leather booths where celebrities and other high-rollers are sure to enjoy bottle service throughout the night.

The nightly themes, like Fantasy Wednesdays, Eyecandy Saturdays and Fubar Fridays seem to have a recurring theme. It’s pure South Beach decadence for sure. It’s what’s to be expected around these parts.

Dream is located at 1532 Washington Ave., 305-674-8018, www.dreammia.com

Dolores but you can call me Lolita: Good eats, hip scene

It’s about more than just the food at Dolores but you can call me Lolita in the heart of Miami’s thriving Brickell area. This is a compound that encompasses the restaurant, lounge, private room and even the Japanese favorite Sushi Maki next door. They go for the warm glow of candlelight in the restaurant where the wall border close to the ceiling brims with quirky and inspiring sayings.

Then there’s the menu which is brimming with delicious selections like the appetizer called Maybe, the Best Serrano Ham Croquettes you ever tasted or the Caesar salad was created in Tijuana Parmesan cheese and croutons. Those wacky names doesn’t mean they don’t take food seriously here, entrees include pappardelle with a Kobe beef bolognese or baja fish tacos of tempura fish filets served with a chipotle-guava cabbage slaw.

Eat or party or do both at the restaurant or lounge, the atmosphere’s great at both.

Electric Pickle: Wynwood’s underground party

Event though it’s upstairs in it’s home building, the Electric Pickle/Bolero Room is the underground party everyone wants to be at in the Wynwood area.

Wednesday to Saturday nights, the party’s on here. DJ’s A-Train, Mr. Brown and Sire Esq. are joined by special guests on Wednesday nights as they play a mix of hip-hop, funk, soul, classics and reggae. Stop Drop ‘N Roll Thursdays DJ Gran Torino and guests play rockabilly, swing, twang, blues and dance jazz. There’s no cover this night and drink are half price.

For Disco Machine Fridays it’s deep house soul, heavy funk boogie and classic dance floor faves and also featuring live acts and DJ’s and on Saturdays live acts, international DJ’s and half-priced drinks are part of Get Some Saturdays.

Electric Pickle is located at 2826 N. Miami Ave., Miami, FL

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Pubbelly: Simply stated, it’s hog heaven

The gastropub has come to Miami, Miami Beach that is, in Pubbelly located around the quieter end of South Beach around 20th Street. Smart move, the space has the perfect non-Art Deco-looking Chelsea New York reminiscent look and feel. It fits perfectly with what the trio of young hip owners are going for.

High ceilings, brick walls, rustic but city like, it’s the antithesis of bubblegum, neon, pastel South Beach and the unique menu is the perfect complement. Asian-inspired Gastropub’s the concept here, an unusual blend for sure but one that works.

Try the spaghetti and meatballs with lemongrass, sommen noodles, tomato and peanuts best described as tangy with a surprising addicting flavor. The McBelly with porkbelly, kimchee, barbecue, pickles and shaved onions is a must as is the pubbelly ramen with porkbelly, lemongrass broth and a poached egg. Menu’s divided into small plates (the first two mentioned here) and larger ones like the ramen, as well as veggies, raw/marinated/cured options and sides. Brews, sakes and wines are great here too with a huge selection.

Pubbelly is located at 1418 20 St., Miami Beach, FL

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DASH Miami: Reality celebs Kardashians’ boutique on South Beach

They’re stars on E the Entertainment Channel with two reality shows, the focus of one being the sisters Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian’s boutique DASH Miami located on South Beach’s gritty and happening Washington Avenue.

It’s a non-descript storefront that’s easily missed with a simple DASH sign but step inside and their style, which is a blend of fun and funky, comes right through. The K sisters love to showcase their favorite fashions in the stores from simple to simply embellished t’s, cool dresses, tanks and plenty of accessories of course. They’ve also got swimwear, a line they recently debuted at Miami Fashion Week.

DASH Miami is located at 815 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL

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Cameo Theatre: Marquee’s bright lights beckon good time

The iconic Cameo Nightclub  in the heart of South Beach on gritty Washington Avenue stands out among all other clubs on this famous strip. The old-style neon movie marquee can be seen from blocks away, alerting clubgoers that inside awaits an awesome night.

Once known as the Cameo Theatre, hence the marquee, there’s something going on every night. A combination of live performances and first-rate DJs including Max Vangeli, Saeed Younan and Chocolate Puma take turns on the stage and behind the booth to excite the huge crowds that gather to dance the night away to their pulsating rhythms. Cameo is also one of the spots to catch the latest masters during the yearly Winter Music Conference.

And it wouldn’t be a club on South Beach without some specialty weeknight parties like Stars and Stilettos on Tuesdays.

Cameo is located at 1445 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL

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SkyBar: It’s a multi-sensory experience at South Beach’s Shore Club

One thing is for sure, visit a trendy hotel on South Beach and it’s very likely that they’ll use every inch of their space to provide multiple experiences for clubgoers and guests. The Shore Club is no exception where they utilize their interior and exterior space to the max, providing a nightclub experience among the palm trees as well as under the hot club lights.

The Redroom Garden surrounding the pool area is set up as an outdoor living room with Asian-style furniture and landscaped gardens filled with colorful perennials, bouganvilleas and passion flowers. It’s a true tropical oasis.

In keeping with the red theme, the interior Redroom is awash in the fiery color from the red lacquered teak floor, red walls that glow with intimate lighting and luxurious red bar stools. The comfy couches are filled with red-patterned cushions. No wonder local and national celebrities love to stop in and party here. Of course, a party on South Beach wouldn’t be complete without a DJ, they play here pretty much every night, Sunday afternoons there’s always a pool party.

SkyBar at the Shore Club is located at 1901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL

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Inkanta Design Store: A place for lovers of modern design

For a unique gift, for a friend or for yourself, skip Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma across the street and pop into Inkanta Design Store, where their goal is “to satisfy lovers of modern design so they can enjoy beautiful objects at work, at home and in everyday life.” And that goal has been met. This minimalist, clean, crisp all-white store gets its pop of color from the modern object on display for sale.

A perfect fit for Miami Beach’s Lincoln Road, the store’s inviting interior features a slew of modern silver key chains with all types of colorful ensembles, a wall displaying modern clocks in every style, shape and color, funky wristwatches, and glassware for cocktails ranging from a high ball to a martini to a nice aged scotch, all done in gradient shades of pink, green and blue. The collection includes accessories as well as objects for home and office designed mainly by Europeans hailing from France, Denmark, Italy, England, Holland and Germany with a few American designers thrown into the mix.

Inkanta Design Store is located at 1111 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach

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Toscano is Beacon Hill’s Italian Gem

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Some Bostonians may argue the best Italian food can be found in the North End, but the hidden gem known as Toscano sits prominently in Beacon Hill. Located on picturesque Charles Street where people watching here is one of the best in the city, Toscano has a knowledgeable staff who review both the food and wine menus with guests while making suggestions. The upscale restaurant is an ideal location for a special occasion or formal night on the town. This year, Toscano celebrates its 25th anniversary with new owners and a new look. The interior has been revitalized to include 80-year-old hand carved walnut hardwood floors, Italian stone walls, and individually painted chandeliers. The menu includes freshly baked pizzas, homemade breads, house made pastas like gnocchi Quattro formaggi to slow grilled meats and fresh seafood (think oven roasted monkfish). Be sure to make a reservation in advance as this place fills up to capacity quickly, especially on the weekends. When you leave here, you will truly feel their motto “Toscano – where a road in Tuscany leads to Beacon Hill” rings piercingly true. For more information, visit toscanoboston.com.

Wardrobe Inspiration at Ahab Bowen Vintage Store

This location is truly the place to go to for vintage shopping in Dallas. Besides it’s fabulous location (a greenhouse), Ahab Bowen offers something from every period in fashion. Whether you are looking for something fashionable to wear for your next Bowling tournament, want to spice up your current wardrobe with hot hip accessories, or just stack up on your 70’s disco outfits, Ahab Bowen is a wonderful source of inspiration.

Whiskey Blue Is the Place To Feel Like A Rock Star

whiskey blueThere’s no better place to feel like a rock star than Whiskey Blue. Of course the weekends are maddening but the weekdays aren’t too shabby either. Wednesday typically attracts the business crowd but there’s nothing boring about making dollars.

As a hotel guest, it’s easy to access the rooftop party from within the hotel but it might be worth entering it from the street just to ride up in elevator with the couch and cross the bridge to excitement.

The bar is a stylish slither so it’s only natural to meet people. Small bites like the yummy tuna spring rolls and lamb sausage pizza from Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Market downstairs are available until 10pm. Move past the bar and the space opens up slightly. Wood-paneled walls and yacht-club inspired furnishings create a warm and intimate vibe and then, the DJ is barely noticeable all the way in the back. There’s also seating parallel to the bar, hence the slithering gap.

Now if a city view and fresh air is a must, take the right just past the bar, through a glass door and behold a clear view of the city. To really soak in the al fresco vibe, though, go to the other side and stay awhile. Cabanas divided by a mini-garden of sorts, well shrubbery and other trappings of nature, work for all seasons thanks to heat lamps.

Drinks are seasonal and pretty standard for most bars in the Gerber Group stable. The Bubblicious, made with bubblegum vodka, is super fun. Mojitos come in multiple flavors, including strawberry, blueberry, mangomint and ginger. And, there’s lots of whiskey too.

It’s a nonstop party at Whiskey Blue. No wonder the beautiful people can’t leave it alone.

The W Buckhead Pops for Atlanta

Sexy, fun, and vibrant but definitely respectable enough to get some business done, the W Buckhead stands out from Atlanta’s other Ws while still retaining its local charm. Simultaneously retro and modern chic, the lobby has many floral details that recall the 1950s/1960swithout any hint of stuffiness though.

Rooms are typically cozy but there are eleven suites for larger ambitions. Of them, the Extreme Wow Suite is all that and more. Spacious beyond imagination, with an eclectically, stylish pop that would make Andy Warhol proud, there’s a half bath as well as a full bath designed for two. Dreamy beds are a W standard and so are the ever nice plasma screens and the uber-fab bliss products.

Staying in the room is so boring so get fit at Sweat (where cable goes well with treadmills), cool off at Wet (the adorable pool overlooking Peachtree) and dance it off at Whiskey Blue (their elevated, rooftop club). Hungry? Just dine at Market, a delicious part of the Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s culinary empire, or lounge at Living Room.

Actually, if clothes were not required, the Living Room might rival the rooms. It has plasma TVs plus comfortably oversized chairs and nice couches which help getting neighborly a breeze. Music by a jazz trio or DJ isn’t uncommon either. And, then, there are nibbles like the truffle pizza and lamb chops from Market plus great drinks like the truly fantastic ginger margarita.

It’s pop life for sure at the W Buckhead.w buckhead 1083904

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) Picture 10to 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.

This Martini’s Not Dirty, it’s Blue!

A little tamer than say South Beach and the Design District, but making a name for itself regardless, is the new party spot: Brickell Avenue. When the lawyers, blue martiniaccountants and bankers put their briefcases away and leave what’s known as Miami’s Financial District the area comes alive, and leading the nightlife pack is Blue Martini.

Blue Martini is a cool place to see and be seen after the 9-5, whether it’s for happy hour or late-night. Located inside Mary Brickell Village, it’s easy to start or end the night at Martini thanks to the surrounding restaurants and shops. It’s a seven-day affair when it comes to specials here, with a daily happy hour 4-8 p.m. featuring 1/2 off drinks, live jazz Tuesdays, Latin live entertainment on Thursdays and Three Olives Ladies Night on Wednesdays. Check it out to find out what that means!

It’s a Creative Whirlwind of Exposure at 111 Minna Gallery

Ask anyone where the latest in San Francisco cuisine, music, performance, Picture 11and most importantly art resides and they will tell you at the famously dynamic 111 Minna Gallery in SOMA.  Gallery by day and dance floor by night, this gallery changes every six weeks to embrace the latest in local, national, and international urban art.

With gallery space that easily converts itself into spaces for as little as 50 and up to 500 people, including the bar and dance floor, 111 Minna is the cities go-to for the hottest events.  And they’re here to showcase anything and everything in the world of art.  With Emily the Strange creator Rob Reiner’s exhibit, San Francisco’s Poet Laureate Diane DePrima readings, World-Renowned DJ Vinroc, and even the EAT street food pop-up restaurant every Monday night, nothing is off topic, too outlandish, or out of range for 111 Minna’s creative initiative.

Spice Up the Abode with Sleek Beau Living

For most people, sprucing up their home’s interior and exterior is a welcome change, and with the sleek furnishings offered at Beau Living, it almost becomes an art form.Picture 5 The large showroom located on Miami’s up and coming Biscayne Boulevard, houses a massive amount of furnishings- sofas to pillows to artwork- for every room in the home.

The mission of the Sebaaly family, owners of the store, is to work directly with the manufacturers to provide the latest styles their customers are seeking out. The featured designs are streamlined and clean and run the gamut to include funky yet functional chaise lounge chairs, chairs and ottomans, as well as  sofas and sectionals with unconventional designs. For the exterior, the cool daybeds, seating sets, and sofas are reminiscent of what’s found around a hip, cool lounging area surrounding a South Beach hotel pool. They also sell artwork and accessories for the home.

Aloft Hotel: Loft-Inspired Luxury

If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to live in a downtown loft, a stay at the Aloft Hotel just might satisfy your curiosity. Nine foot tall ceilings and exposed original columns in the historic building give off an urban feel, but with a major dose of luxury; Bliss spa products, dreamy platform beds, and 42 inch televisions roPicture 6und out the rooms.

If you’d like to get your sweat or swim on, a fully-equipped fitness center and salt water heated pool are at your disposal. If exploring downtown Dallas is on your to-do list, simply walk out the front doors and you’re on your way. The hotel is literally steps from City Hall, the Dallas Convention Center, and numerous bars and restaurants.

Staying inside the hotel can prove to be just as exciting with the WXYZ bar located in the center of the modern-chic lobby. With rooms starting below $110 per night, you can experience the big city life at its finest with only a small dent in your pocketbook.

Transform Yourself at Metamorphosis

A fresh hairstyle can transform your spirit and give you a positive outlook, even if you change it monthly.  If you have an elaborate vision for your hairstyle or need a salon that will creatively design one for you, Metamorphosis in Hayes Valley is the salon that will exceed your expectations.  With over a decade in the international beautPicture 4y industry, owner and head stylist Stas Mikhailov lives by the motto “Beauty is Power!” and will have you chanting with him by the end of your session.

The salon itself is modern, charming, and feminine, with enthusiastic stylists providing the best in customer service.  Have some white wine while the self-proclaimed “Agents of Transformation” bring out your unique beauty through style, highlights, updos, or even professional fashion consulting.  From the friendly reminder call to the next-day follow up, your personalized experience at Metamorphosis will have you coming back for a new look as often as Madonna changes her wardrobe.

Pub and Kitchen: Where Food Dreams Begin!

Pub & Kitchen has figured out the formula for restaurant success and it’s absolutely taking Philadelphia by storm. From music- fantastic classic rock playing at just the right level for conversation, but conducive enough for sing-alongs-  to seating -you’re welcome to chit-chat with your neighboring table, or cozy up in a booth with friends- to the bar -gorgeous, and they’re making their own wine now, PuRestaurants--Americanb & Kitchen is doing gastro pub in style without even acknowledging food yet.

And the FOOD! Dreams will be had of the hand-cut skinny french fries with truffle dijonnaise sauce. Their entrees cover the spectrum of comfort food featuring a citywide known burger (if you’re smart, you’ll put the truffle dijonnaise on that too), fish & chips with mushy peas, and fantastic gnocchi. The menu changes often and continues to delight its patrons with fresh approaches to classic dishes, like the English version of French onion soup that sneaks some pulled pork and bacon into the dish.

You will not be disappointed with your visit to this hip, yet classic joint.

Vintage Wine Bar – Much More than Fine Wine

Malbecs and Beaujolais and Viogniers, oh my! Just as a fine wine has its particular nuances that sometimes you can’t seem to put your finger on, Vintage Wine Bar and Bistro has that charm that keeps you coming back for more.

Picture 6It is certainly helpful that Vintage is constantly changing their menu, but the one great consistency is that there’s over 60 wines by the glass at all times. The menu is crafted to enhance the wine, and features French-inspired bistro food like steak frites and escargots for fantastic prices. For those that prefer a different fermentation, Vintage also features a plethora of specialty brews from all nooks of the world, like Dogfish Head from Delaware and Sagres from Portugal.

If you’re searching for an evening with some extra oomph, the staff offers personalized food and wine pairings and would be happy to work with any group. Order a flight with some recommendations from the wait staff and settle in for a great evening in this enticing and sophisticated atmosphere.

Prêt-à-Porter at Movida Boutique

Movida Boutique is where Dallas ladies go for boutique items at affordable prices. Located just underneath the Angelika Film Center, this trendy yet eclectic boutique has great deals and pairings to those in need of some eye-candy or some serious shopping.

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Whether you’re a true shopper and like to dig or prefer the full-service route, the girls here are laid back and ready to help when and where you need. You can find everything  from jewelry to purses to shoes for nights out or a sassy work number that has yet to go mainstream.

Let the fashionable staff help put together your next ensemble. Movida is spacious and tends to be less crowded than other boutiques at Mockingbird Station.

Throwback Fun at Lucky Strike

PHIluckystrikeLucky Strike is the perfect blend between lane and lounge…and yes, we’re talking bowling lanes here. It’s easy to let your hair down and visit your inner-child at this swanky alley. Whether you’re a serious bowler or a seriously bad one, you are bound to have a blast.

Cocktail waitresses channel a retro roller-girl look while you hang with friends, dance, bowl, and pig out like you’re 13 again (loaded potato chips are a must). Make sure you remember to reserve your lane, because it gets busy as the music turns up after 10pm. And don’t be shy, no one will think twice about you shakin’ your booty while you bowl! Even if you do not go for the lanes, there’s great seating for a late-night dinner with friends or to catch the game on the big screens behind the bar.

Dress to impress, as recommended in the dress code, but make sure your outfit will match those sweet bowling shoes.

Dallas Does Art… Finally!

DSC00913adjustedThe long anticipated and well publicized Dallas Arts District is finally open! As one of the largest- if not THE largest- urban arts districts in the nation, it has put the Big D on the map as a major player in the art scene. The new Dallas Arts District in downtown Dallas is a sprawling 68-acre, 19-block area of performing and visual art utopia that brings an imaginative world of art this city has craved for for decades.

Incorporating over a dozen venues, the Dallas Arts District crosses all genres and functions to create a city within a city. From One Arts Plaza, where you’ll find a dynamic mix of corporate, residential, and retail space featuring some of Dallas’ hippest restaurants and bars to the Nasher Sculpture Center, highly regarded as one of the foremost collections of modern and contemporary sculptures in the world to the internationally renowned Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, where some of the world’s finest acts have performed. With a massive collection of new and old, classic and modern, the buildings themselves are masterful works of art.

And don’t forget the new ‘kids’ on the art block, the Margot & Bill Winspear Opera House and the Dee & Charles Wyly Theater, as they don’t mess around… unless, of course, it’s comedy.

SOFA Chicago 2009

CHsofaThe critically acclaimed Sculpture Objects and Function Art Fair, or SOFA, is debuting its 16th annual collection at Navy Pier. It’s with an incredible array of top international galleries and dealers from 10 countries, 5 special exhibitions, and 33 lecture presentations. This year, SOFA is debuting SOLO at SOFA, galleries that spotlight cutting-edge works by individual artists and object groupings.

Funky, Trendy & a Museum? Only at New Museum

Not many buildings sport a rainbow “Hell Yes” on their facade, let alone an art museum. “New Art, New Ideas;” that’s the motto for the aptly named New Museum in the hip Lower East Side. Unlike most contemporary art galleries, the art here is so new that it includes YouTube videos(!) and art that’s a social commentary on current political hot topics like the Iraq War.

Not only is the art inside super hip and new, so is the building, that is like a modern Goliath among the aging downtown buildings. It’s actually the first art museum ever to be constructed from the ground up in downtown Manhattan.

Fitting to its artsy Bowery locale, the crowd here is more likely to be sporting Converses and Aviators than suits and ties. Before leaving, check out the seventh floor Skyroom that has a spectacular panoramic view of Manhattan from the Financial District to the Midtown skyscrapers.

InterContinental Chicago

InterContinental Chicago is a lot like the city itself: historic but hip, refined but relaxed, cultured but comfortable. A member of Michigan Avenue’s architectural elite since 1929, our hotel is within easy reach of Chicago’s incomparable museums, stores, theatres and restaurants. Navy Pier, Shedd Aquarium and Oak Street Beach are minutes away.

Hammerstein Ballroom

Musicians from the world of pop, rock and electronica all find their home in a seemingly unconventionPicture 51al setting: A vintage opera house that can holds up to 3,000. Hidden by a conventional midtown office-building, you would never know that some of the most significant groups of our time have orchestrated blow-out events, making the Hammerstein anything but an ordinary music venue in Manhattan. The ballroom opened in 1906 as a classical opera house. Then in 1910 it turned into a variety show house… followed by a conversion into a movie palace. During the Depression, it became a Freemason’s temple, and was then abandoned in the 70’s. Now, the Hammerstein is seat-free, allowing mobs in for general admission seating/standing.

Patio Perfection at Cafe Pinot

As a member of L.A.’s infamous Patina Restaurant Group, Café Pinot is the perfect culmination of dining outdoors with American and French Californian cuisine.

Centrally located downtown, Café Pinot is that restaurant that your parents are probably going to before they see Elton John play in concert or where your roommate is taking his girlfriend for their anniversary before he drags her to the Lakers game. But if you choose to embark on downtown activities such as a nice little visit to the Staples Center, some patrons swear that the only thing that should truly never be missed at Patina is the desserts. With classic favorites such as chocolate lava cake and apple crumble, those can enjoy everything Patina has to offer either before or after the first basket.

And in true Los Angeles fashion, Patina encourages patrons to enjoy the outdoor patio seating where it is most important to be seen. Though other restaurants may offer dining outdoors, no one truly does it like this restaurant.

Though you might have to dress up and keep the kids at home, Café Pinot is the perfect addition to everything downtown L.A. has to offer and added that little extra that it was missing.