Tag Archives: top chef

Flip Burger Boutique

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Flip Burger Boutique is bringing fine dining…to burgers! Conceived by Top Chef alum Richard Blais, he’s offering up the beloved classics but also elevating the concept to a whole new level. Set inside a playful yet modern atmosphere, his unique spin on the traditional burger includes soon-to-be new faves like the pork belly and cheese. Sides range from good ‘ol fries to beer and cheddar soup! And be sure to wash it all down with the truly unique milkshakes – the burnt marshmallow is a keeper! Check out flipburgerboutique.com for more information.

Le Bernardin for Award-Winning Seafood Perfection

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A 4 star restaurant that has been named the #1 restaurant in New York by New York Magazine, New York Times and Zagat’s Guide; has won more James Beard Awards than any other restaurant; and has been awarded the highest number of Michelin stars: 3, Le Bernardin is the premier French restaurants in New York City – and arguably the world – and certainly one of the most elegant dining rooms in the country.

Picture 67The philosophy of Le Bernardin is, very simply put, the fish is the star of the plate. With the focus on seafood, Chef Eric Ripert (whose name and restaurant may sound familiar from multiple Top Chef appearances) has created an ambitious yet uncomplicated dinner menu that is broken into three courses: almost raw, barely touched and lightly cooked. Chef Eric Ripert’s favorite dishes are the Tuna made of Layers of Thinly Pounded Yellowfin with Foie Gras and Toasted Baguette; the Crab with Stuffed Zucchini Flower with Peektoe, King Crab and “Fine Herbs – Lemon” Mousseline Sauce; and the Surf and Turf of Escolar and Seared Kobe Beef with Sea Bean Salad and Eggplant Fries.

Le Bernardin is one of those restaurants that is the special occasion as it will probably be the most memorable dining experience of your entire life.

Insider’s Tip: As Le Bernardin’s reputation precedes itself throughout the globe, make sure to make a reservation well in advance and bring a heavy wallet; such perfection is priced accordingly.

Tom Colicchio Knows How to Get Craft-y

Ever since Tom Colicchio made his mark on Atlanta, Dallas and New York, it was about time that the Top Chef superstar brought Craft to the City of Stars, Los Angeles. Whether it’s lunch, dinner or dessert, Craft restaurant brings swanky, sexy, simple, sophisticated American classics together without ever missing the mark.

Featuring courses of octopus and Dry-Picture 9Aged sirloin, the food at Craft truly cannot be beat and pretty much everything off the menu is worth ordering. And that’s the point, everything comes a la carte, and sides like Shitaki mushrooms will blow your palate away as much as the cooked-to-perfection NY strip steak. Though Craft is known for its fish and meat, it is probably one of the only Los Angeles restaurants with a dessert menu long enough to act on its own. Between classic beignets and fabulous dessert combinations, you truly get the full culinary experience.

Though the food is outstanding on its own, the décor and ambiance of the restaurant truly make it an unforgettable experience. If a party is in your future, make sure to book the outdoor patio that can seat up to 80 people.

In the famous words of Bravo’s Top Chef, “Please pack your knives and go” to this restaurant!

3. NYT Art & Leisure Weekend 1/7-1/10/10

Picture 9The New York Times Art & Leisure Weekend is an incredible opportunity to learn from major stars of the film, television, culinary, and dance worlds- that are interviewed by some of the most prestigious journalists in the world from the New York Times.

Each seminar is better than the next covering all aspects of art and entertainment. Listen in as Frank Bruni interviews the stars of Top Chef, Journalist Patrick Healy interviews Natalie Portman, Journalist Bill Carter interviews Jimmy Fallon, Journalist Jason Zinoman interviews the makers of Cirque du Soleil and much more. From soap opera stars to chefs, this an incredible way to spend a glamorous New York weekend– and possibly get a few tips from the pros.

An Intoxicating Experience at Absinthe

Mix France’s passion for the art of dining, Northern Italy’s seasonal-inspired menus, and Top Chef Jamie Lauren’s cultured American influence and you have an explosion of rich flavor and buttery emotion that lingers on every taste bud long after you leave.

Absinthe Brasserie & Absinte cabinetBar in charming Hayes Valley has a vintage french wine list (Wine Spectator 2009’s Award of Excellence Winner to be fair) and assortment of fine cheeses alone that will impress even the most discerning of foodies.  Except how could anyone not be further enticed by menu items like Steak Tartare with poached quail egg and habanero or Charoula-Rubbed Lamb Loin with cucumber relish.  Feeling like a French royale? Absinthe serves Tsar Nicoulai Farm-Raised Osetra Caviar for $75 an ounce.

In addition to the fine dining, and for the upscale foodie on a budget, Absinthe has a separate Belle Epoque-inspired bar space featuring designer cocktails and cafe style small plates.  Pair the strength of Absinthe’s atmosphere with a “Sacred Heart” tequila/absinthe cocktail and this brasserie will have you seeing “la fee verte”.