GBK NYC Wine & Food Festival Official Thank You Lounge #gbkproductions #gbknycwff @GBK_Productions

 

Valerie Bertinelli

Rocco Dispirito

Marcus Samuelsson

Katie Lee

Giada De Laurentiis

Chef Josh Capon

Jessie James Decker

Neil Patrick Harris

Jonathan Cheban

Photos courtesy GBK Productions

The annual NYC Wine & Food festival is the largest gathering of the nations top chefs, wine & spirits purveyors and personalities in the culinary arts. GBK productions has hosted VIP backstage lounges for major events for years including the Grammy’s, Emmy’s and New York Fashion Week and is the official backstage host here at the two day festival.

A host of brands engage with celebrities, media, and influencers gifting them an array of products ranging from countertop ovens to luxury all inclusive vacations in the caribbean. Offering a relaxing respite from two days of networking the lounge offers snacks and drinks and even a trial run in the Kahuna chair, as seen above with Neil Patrick Harris.

Pinnertest

Prospek Glasses

Power AirFryer by Tristar Products

Spindrfit

Warthur Cutlery

The Cup Bearer

Christofle Silver

Kahuna Chair

John Boos & Co

Porto Vino

Brava Ovens

VinGarde Valise

Brand Sponsors included: Brava, Christofle Silver, John Boos & Co, Kahuna Chair, Loacker, Pinnertest, Porto Vino, Spindrfit, Prospek Glasses, The Cup Bearer, Power Air Fryer by Tristar Products, VinGarde Valise, and Warther Cutlery.

Palace Resorts gifted a 4 day 3 night stay at the luxury all inclusive Moon Palace Jamaica in Ocho Rios or the Moon Palace in Cancun.  La Corte Dell’ Astore Resort in the heart of Selva di Fasano, Italy gifted a $4500 3 night stay in a luxury suite, paragliding and sailboat experience. Anticalma in Puglia, Italy also gifted a 3 night stay with dinner,considered  by many to be the finest dining experience in the area.

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Palace Resorts Mexico: Cozumel Palace and The Grand at Moon Palace, world apart and beautifully unique @palaceresorts

 

 

Cozumel Palace is a unique resort and is a diver’s dream. A coral reef sits right beyond the property in the warm blue waters where guests can grab complimentary snorkel gear and jump right in. The fish is plentiful and there is a lifeguard that overseas snorkelers. Fun for the entire family and highly recommended. SCUBA diving excursions are available as are night dives.

 

Loft Suite

Loft Suite

The intimate resort has 169 suites, each with a double whirlpool tub and balcony. Traveling with the family as we were, we stayed in a loft suite which offers two floors with a bedroom with double beds upstairs and a full bath and a king size bed and full bath downstairs. 

 

 

The resort is truly all inclusive with top shelf liquor available throughout the resort including an ensuite bar, in our case 2 bars, one on each floor! The dining options are plentiful and the cuisine is refined, a pleasant surprise as one doesn’t always find that in an all- inclusive. MOMO, the Pan-Asian restaurant was our favorite with teppanyaki cooking and fresh sushi, the kind us New Yorkers are used to and rarely find when traveling in the caribbean. Bugambilia’s serves authentic mexican cuisine in a laid back environment and the staff can make a mean margarita. For casual dining try Turquesa for breakfast and lunch buffets and for a-la carte Italian dining. Room service is available for breakfast in bed or cozy romantic dinner on the balcony.

Mexican Show Cozumel Palace

After dinner there is nightly entertainment for the entire family. From live music, singing and dancing to authentic Mexican shows. The lobby bar is open late for a night cap and was the hot spot for drinking and mingling each evening.

The spa is there to pamper the guests, the knowledgable staff is there to plan your dream destination wedding and/or honeymoon and the concierge is there to plan your offsite excursion. Cozumel Palace is a unique and special resort for the entire family.

Getting there: Guests fly into Cancun International airport and take a 40 minute ferry to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen, resort is a 10 minute walk or a very short taxi ride away. The resort helps arrange transfers for guests.

Pool Grand Moon Palace

Unique Pool Club

Pool Moon Palace

Moon Palace in Cancun has been a mainstay as one of the grandest all-inclusives in Cancun, however with the most recent opening of the Grand at Moon Palace Cancun All-Inclusive  everything about this Palace Resort is elevated to new levels. 

The accommodations are luxe from grand swimup suites, family suites, garden view suites and the massive Presidential suites.

The dining options are endless with a fine dining middle eastern restaurant Habibi, Cielito Lindo Mexican restaurant, Tavola, an italian trattoria, Jade, a fusion asian restaurant, Le Chateau, an elegant adults only french restaurant, JC Steakhouse, a prime steakhouse requiring reservations and is highly recommended, a Tapas & Vino bar, Boulangerie, a quaint coffee shop, Caribeno, an authentic caribbean eatery, Cusco, a Peruvian restaurant along with food & drink choices at the adults only Unique Day Club, Beach club and much more.

Cusco Peruvian

Cusco Peruvian

Cusco Peruvian

The Grand section alone is a huge property with transport by open air shuttle being the most popular option, especially down to the beach club or if one wishes to venture to another section of moon palace to perhaps experience The Flowrider, a manmade surfing machine.

Wired Teen Club

Wired Teen Club

There is a waterpark at the Grand with thrill rides, a wave pool, a lazy river, tube rides, kids club and of course a bar serving tropical cocktails. Wired a teen club open till midnight with the newest arcade games, video games, and a snack and ice-cream bar. A disco for late night revelers, an adults only pool club with food & bar and DJ pumping music throughout the day as well as a bowling alley. Lounging by a different pool every day was no problem with 9 pools available, many with swim up bars.

Vegas Show Grand Moon Palace

Vegas Show Grand Moon Palace

 

Nightly shows are Vegas Style, rivaling many you actually see stateside in Vegas. A huge theatre with bar and snacks service offering everything from trapeze acts, contortionists, gymnasts and a Michael Jackson experience show.

The Grand offers a pampering spa, golf, conference rooms, wedding preparations, offsite excursions. Everything is grander at the Grand Moon Palace Cancun.

La Pulperia NYC: Rustic Latin Cuisine on the Upper East Side

 

On a balmy september monday evening we ventured into La Pulperia on the upper east side of Manhattan. It was quite lively with a band playing and an energetic crowd gathered around the bar and in the dining area. 

Owned and operated by chef/owner Carlos Barroz and Victor Medina, The eatery serves latin cuisine from a variety of countries with a European flair. The menu is heavily seafood based with a terrific raw bar and a crudo tasting not to be missed.

El Salmon Brûlée

Beef and Corn Empanadas

Crudo Tasting

Alaskan King Crab Legs

 

We started with a cocktail recommended by the owner himself. We are rum drinkers so we ordered the Coquito Passion, made with Don Q Silver and Coconut Rum, passion fruit puree, agave nectar and fresh mint. It was very refreshing and not too sweet.

We started our tasting with the salmon brûlée, followed by a crudo tasting, and a portion of tender Alaskan King Crab legs. My meat lover dining companion enjoyed the serving of beef and corn empanadas.

Crab Meat Black Ravioli

Hangar Steak

 

For the main course we had to try one of the house specialties, the crab meat black ravioli. The handmade pasta is filled with fresh crab meat accompanied with cherry tomatoes in a saffron clam sauce. We highly recommend this entree! 

The hangar steak is organic from uruguay and is accompanied by five cazuelitas (sides), eggplant chambota, celery root gratin, grilled broccoli rabe, spinach mac & cheese and chimichurri sauce. We had it cooked medium rare and it was very tender and perfectly seasoned.

 

 

The chef brought out two desserts to try. We loved the crepes, filled with chocolate sauce topped with bananas, powdered sugar and served with a side of ice cream. The chocolate mousse was light and not too rich, served with fresh fruit and vanilla ice cream.

La Pulperia is located at 1626 Second Avenue New York, NY 10028. (212) 960- 3176 pulperianyc.com

Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa: Unlimited Adults Only Luxury in The Dominican Republic @secretscapcana #secretscapcana

Secrets Cap Cana  is located in an exclusive gated community 15 minutes away from Punta Cana airport. A gorgeous resort on acres of property facing the Caribbean sea. Everything is included so no need to ever take out a wallet; Gourmet meals, premium liquors, non -motorized waterspouts, wifi, gratuities and if staying in the preferred section even a butler. 

Adults -only with couples and honeymooners in mind, romance is on the menu. Couples can opt for a romantic dinner on the beach or ensuite, indulge in a couples massage in the spa, or even get married with a variety of wedding packages available through a knowledgeable and creative wedding specialist on property.

Accomodations range from junior suites and go all the way up to preferred club presidential suites. Each has elegant tropical decor, flatscreen tv’s, lux bathroom amenities, in-room liquor dispensers, mini bars, and many have swimout pools.

The dining options are endless with 7 a la carte restaurants, a buffet, a late night snack bar, and of course room service. We liked how they are so convienently located in the middle of the resort and reservations are never required. Staying in the preferred section guests can dine in their own restaurant adjacent to the pool. El Patio, Himitsu, and Oceana were our favorites.

Daytime activities obviously include lounging by the pool or beach with cocktail in hand, while the more adventurous guests can venture to try many available watersports activities, water aerobics, scuba lessons and snorkeling.

Guests who want to leave the hotel and go on an excursion can purchase a tour in the main lobby or have the butler arrange it for them. Golf can also be arranged with three nearby courses including Punta Espada which is ranked #1 in Mexico and the Caribbean by Golfweek.

Nighty shows are actually quite good, our favorite was the Michael Jackson show. The Caribbean show was lots of fun with singers and dancers performing to local caribbean music.

As always Jet Blue is our go to when traveling to the Caribbean, especially the Dominican Republic. Daily nonstop flights out of the northeast and connections from the remaining United States. Good legroom, can be upgraded for a very affordable fee to even more space. Complimentary snacks, entertainment, and free wifi when available and friendly staff is why we are loyal to Jetblue.

Fascia Yoga with Ashley Black, “The Cellulite Myth (It’s not Fat its Fascia)”.

Ashley Black is considered the pre-eminent authority on the topic of Fascia. Like beauty and wellness trends before this, ala cupping and cryotherapy, Fascia blasting is the newest trend with celebs and regular folk alike.

What is Fascia? Ashley says “Fascia is the connective tissue in our body and it’s job is to support and protect muscles and organs. When our bodies experience any kind of injury the fascia contracts and distorts to offer support which can be painful and can also cause the appearance of cellulite”.

Fascia Yoga is a different way to stretch your entire body beyond creating flexibility in the muscles and joints. This method stretches the long lines of Fascia that runs along our entire bodies. Ashley designed a line of yoga equipment and products so that individuals can practice this at home without the expense of a doctor or a physical therapist. The FasciaYoga Ball ($25) is different than a regular stability ball because the grip of the material on the person’s skin or clothing simulates the manual stretching technique of a physical therapist.

Book

FasciaBlaster Collection $303.24

Ashley designed a line of products designed to massage the fascia to lessen the appearance of cellulite, reduce pain, improve blood flow and increase flexibility. FasciaBlaster Tools include the Fasciablaster ($89), Mini 1 & 2 ($65), Faceblaster ($65), Masterblaster ($124.99), Party Blaster ($89), Blaster Oil & After Cream ($30).

Ashley’s #1 best selling book “The Cellulite Myth, It’s not fat it’s Fascia” is available here Fasciablaster.com

To use these devices for maximum benefit warm up by :

• Do light cardio for a few minutes and take a hot shower, bath, or sauna,
• Apply blaster oil on bare clean skin.
• Choose device to use for the session and start rolling the device over the area using up and down and side to side motions
• Time to Recover: Bruises, Soreness, and Swelling are normal.

Perrine NYC: Restaurant Week must visit July 23rd – August 17th.

Perrine is a chic eatery in the legendary Pierre Hotel on the upper east side. During Restaurant week, actually a full three weeks, July 23rd through August 17th, guests can try out Chef Ashfer Biju’s culinary creations for a fraction of the cost. Lunch is $26 and Dinner is $42 monday through friday and sundays, beverages, taxes, and gratuitous not included.

crab flatbread

tuna tartare

sea bass

Chef Biju carefully sources ingredients locally from upstate farms and lamb from New Jersey delivering a farm to table experience using only the freshest in season ingredients. The restaurant week menu constantly changes but typically can include what we tasted during the preview dinner a couple weeks back. As a serious seafood lover the tuna tartare was fresh and tasty as was the black sea bass, simply prepared in a seafood broth served on a bed of fava beans. Chef Biju also brought out his famous crab flatbread which quickly became a table favorite.

coronation salad

lamb chops

The chef also brought out the Coronation salad, a true house favorite, and yes it was created for Queen Elizabeth’s coronation in the 1950’s. A perfect summer salad made with curry chicken and golden raisins. The meat lovers at the table praised the short ribs, not pictured, and the lamb chops, locally sourced from a farm in New Jersey.

warm chocolate cake

Desserts at Perrine are created by Michael Mignano, a legendary pastry chef who creates unique dishes that are visibly appealing and delicious. Our favorite was the Molten Chocolate cake served with Pistachio ice cream. For a lighter dessert option try the strawberry peach sorbet or ask the staff for the sorbet flavors of the day as they constantly change them. You won’t be dissapointed!

Perrine is located at 2 East 61st New York, NY inside the Pierre Hotel. To make a reservation call ( 212) 940-8195 or perrinenyc.com

Oscar Wilde, The Bar has opened in NYC @OscarWildeNYC #OscarWildeNYC

Photo by Simmer Group

Photo by Simmer Group

Photo by Simmer Group

 

Fans of Oscar Wilde rejoice, as a bar with his namesake and two bronze status of him has opened in NYC. The Nomad area bar pays homage to the Irish novelist and playwright with opulent decor, imported murano glass, mirrors, and loads of unique antiques.

Cocktails Photo by Simmer Group

An interesting piece of history is that, ironically the building housing the bar was once home to the city’s Prohibition Enforcement Headquarters during the 1920’s. The cocktail menu reflects both the Victorian and Prohibition era with one cocktail aptly named “Oscar Wilde’s Potent Elixir”. It is made with cognac, guinness, gin, cassis, lavender, champagne, and orange zest. And yes it is quite potent!

Buffalo Cauliflower Photo by Simmer Group

Dessert Trio Photo by Simmer Group

Oscar Wilde Burger Photo by Simmer Group

Sesame Kale Caesar Salad Photo by Simmer Group

 

On the menu at Oscar Wilde is classic bar fare with a twist. Our favorites included the buffalo cauliflower, The chicken wings with a curry dry rub, The kale caesar salad, the oscar wilde burger, and the dessert trio.

The bar is quite popular with an after work crowd and tourists alike. Loud music, lots of drinking, good food, so fun is sure to be had with a visit to Oscar Wilde.

Oscar Wilde 45 west 27th street New York, NY 10001 (212) 213-3066 Open Mon-Sun 11:30-2am

Summers Essentials Guide 18 #Summer2018

It Cosmetics Anti-Aging Amour SPF 50+

Cargo Swimmables Water Resistant Blush

Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo

Lasio Keratin Protector Spray

Rahua Amazon Beauty Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner

Brevena Restore & Hydrate Cream

Natura Brasil “Terra” Eau de Parfum

Speechless Off the Shoulder Dress

STS Denim Oversized Boyfriend Jacket

Vera Bradley Beach Tote

Fiil Audio Drifter Pro Ear Phones

 

• It Cosmetics Anti- Aging Armour with SPF 50+ Developed with plastic surgeons helps protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays. $38 ulta.com
• Cargo Swimmables Water Resistant Blush. Sweatproof and waterproof. $26 kohls.com
• Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo 3.2oz. One of our favorites to extend time in-between blowouts! $25 blandiproducts.com
• New from Lasio is the Keratin Protector Spray. Improves Keratin performance by 40% and protects hair from salt, chlorine and UV rays. $24 lasioinc.com
• Rahua Amazon Beauty Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner 9.3oz each $34 and $36 rahua.com
• Brevena Restore & Hydrate Overnight Cream. A formula with Macro B Complex, hyaluranic acid, shea butter, and potent antioxidants works to replenish and infuse skin with moisture. $89 brevena.com
  
• Natura Brasil Eau de Parfum 50ml. Soft woods, white flowers and vanilla mask $95 naturabrasil.com
• Speechless Savannah Embroidered Shift Dress. Perfect for a summer night out or a weekend getaway. $68 speechless.com
• STS Oversize Denim Boyfriend Jacket. When the sun sets this will keep you cozy $69 stsblue.com
• Vera Bradley Straw Beach Tote in Woven Blue. Carry everything to the beach in this colorful tote, secret pocket for valuables inside. $68 verabradley.com
• Fiil Audio Drifter Pro In-Ear Headphones. Complete wireless noise cancelling headphones with superior sound. Light weight, extended battery life, perfect for travel and all day music listening. $199 fiil.com
  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pink Luminous Breast: The At-Home monitoring assistant that lets us see what’s going on inside. #pinkluminousbreast

 

About 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. Over 40,000 will die from it this year alone. With these kind of statistics plaguing women, we look for any kind of assistance in diagnosing and treating the disease early. Everyone knows that early detection is the key to survival.

A new device just hit the market called the “Pink Luminous Breast” and it bills itself as a breast health familiarity tool. An LED device that uses transillumination, a light powerful enough to penetrate the skin and tissue of the breast. Any kind of cyst or solid mass will appear darker than the rest when the light is pressed on the skin.

Company founder Marylin Dans, who had a non-cancerous breast lump at age 17 is extremely passionate about educating women of all ages, backgrounds, and financial scenarios about the importance of breast health. She emphasizes that this tool is no way a replacement for a mammogram. It is to be used in conjunction with regular doctor visits and mammograms. The goal is to make women more aware and comfortable with their own breasts.

The Pink Luminous is approved by the FDA as a class I device, meaning it is safe and doesn’t need further regulation or restrictions. It is safe to use for women with breast implants and has no side effects.

Once again this device is a practical at-home device priced at $159, comparable price to a hair removal device, that SilkPro the parent company also sells. It is meant to encourage young women, starting at age 25 to actively invest in their breast health. When it is used in conjunction with regular screenings and check ups it can be helpful to seek out medical help if something seems off.

Rodan + Fields Go Naked Campaign in Honor of National Selfie Day June 21st #RFGoNaked

National Selfie Day is June 21 so that means makeup free selfies to help support The Rodan + Fields Prescription for Change Foundation. The 2018 goal is 1 million selfies ( 1 million dollars) with $1 dollar donated for each by Rodan + Fields tagged #RFGoNaked. The foundation serves youth with life changing empowerment programs in their communities. The goal is to boost confidence, especially in young adults and promote feeling comfortable in one’s own skin.

To prep our skin and get it ready to go make free we tested out the Rodan + Fields REDEFINE AMP MD System. The AMP- MD Derma Roller offers the highest technology to micro- exfoliate the skin. When used with the intensive renewing serum containing powerful peptides with exclusive R+F retinol MD technology, skin is plumper and firmer looking and the appearance of wrinkles and lines is greatly reduced. Use in the evening least three times week on face and neck for optimal results.#AD

The Sofitel Tony Awards Suite and VIP experience: Bucket list worthy for a true Tony’s fan.

 

NEW YORK, NY – MAY 02: General view of the Tony Awards Suite and Farver Exhibit at the SOFITEL New York Hotel on May 2, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions)

NEW YORK, NY – MAY 02: General view of the bookshelf in the Tony Awards Suite and Farver Exhibit at the SOFITEL New York Hotel on May 2, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions)

NEW YORK, NY – MAY 02: General view of terrace outside the Tony Awards Suite and Farver Exhibit at the SOFITEL New York Hotel on May 2, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions)

NEW YORK, NY – MAY 02: General view of the coffe table in the Tony Awards Suite and Farver Exhibit at the SOFITEL New York Hotel on May 2, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions)

 

The Sofitel in NYC is located in the heart of midtown only steps away from where the Tony awards are presented every June. Known as the official hotel of the Tony’s, the week leading up to the awards show, there is a whirlwind of events the hotel hosts from nominee lunches to evening cocktail parties.

For a true VIP experience the hotel offers the $100k Tony Awards package where you will feel like a celebrity in your own right. This package includes 7 nights in a gorgeously appointed suite with of course official Tony’s memorabilia, two VIP tickets to the Tony Awards at Radio City Hall, Styling by Christian Siriano, Hair & Makeup by Nomi Beauty, After Party tickets, and two tickets to any three of the nominated plays. Sofitel also donates $50,000 to the Broadway League and The American Theatre wing when this package is purchased. 

The suite is tastefully decorated with loads of curated Tony’s memorabilia with most glorious being the 600 square foot terrace with a view of the Chrysler Building. The terrace is big enough to host your own Tony’s soiree. The suite is available year round for about 2K a night.

Gaby dining room

Gaby bar

Every Tony’s aficionado must eat, so a meal or two in Sofitel’s french brasserie Gaby is a must. The french staff is very outgoing and knowledgable about the dishes served. Our favorites during the Sunday brunch were the homemade croissants and pastries, the authentic french onion soup and the classic eggs benedict. The Steak & Eggs looked delicious, a few neighboring guests were enjoying them. A full cocktail and wine list is available. 

For more info on Sofitel New York (45 west 44th street New York, NY 10036) visit sofitel-new-york.com

Morimoto Sushi and Sake Sunset Sail on The America 2.0 Schooner @ClassicHarbor #ClassicHarbor

 

Classic Harbor Line , based out of Chelsea Piers in Manhattan, offers a multitude of cruises along New York City’s waterways on five distinctively different classic sailing yachts. There are cruises to the Statue of Liberty, sunset sails, brunch cruises as well as specialty themed cruises.

A couple of weeks ago we had the privilege of sailing on the inaugural 2018 Morimoto Sushi & Sake Sunset Sail on the America 2.0 sail boat, the top schooner in the fleet. 

 

 Iron Chef Morimoto, one of the most revered sushi chefs in the country offers guests a light dinner of 2 platings of the freshest sushi paired with 4 expertly paired sake flights. The sushi is prepared just minutes before boarding to ensure maximum freshness. We had nine pieces of sushi and a roll, all choices created by the chef himself and meant to complement the sakes offered. There is also an open bar with a choice of wines, beers, and sodas onboard.

The 2 hour sunset sail offers specatular views of the downtown Manhattan skyline and The Statue of Liberty while enjoying delicious fare on an elegant sailboat. This cruise is highly recommended for visitors and locals alike. The cruise sails every monday evening at 7 during summer months.

For more info and to book your cruise please visit: Sail-NYC.com

 

Cruising The BVI’s on the S/V Mandalay with Sail Windjammer @SailWindjammer1

The S/V Mandalay was built in 1923 for E.F. Hutton as a gift for his wife. She sailed many oceans doing work as a research vessel, patrolling waters for the coast guard before being meticulously refurbished and regaining the waters as a cruising yacht. The S/V Mandalay can accommodate 58 passengers comfortably and a crew of 24.

Based in Grenada The S/V Mandalay sails the Caribbean on 6 night or 13 night cruises year round. Captain Sly commands a crew whose main responsibility is to welcome guests into a new found family and treat them to a cruising experience unlike any other.

The Sails are raised by hand each time she sails with the sound of Amazing Grace. There are traditional sailing traditions like afternoon rum swizzles, crab races, late night deck parties under the stars. Captain Sly, a decorated Captain overseas every aspect of the cruise from safety and island talks to being the entertainment at the Passenger and Crew costume party.

Beachtime

Hammock Time

Sunset

Painkiller at Soggy’s

Crew S/V Mandalay

Our cruising adventure began in Tortola. We flew from JFK to San Juan and on to St.Thomas on JetBlue and then took a high speed ferry to Tortola. JetBlue is our favorite airline to the Caribbean with a positive and cheerful crew as well as comfortable aircraft with direct tv, free wifi, and complimentary snacks. Once in Tortola we were greeted at the dock and transported to the sailing ship by boat. Greeted by the staff with rum swizzles it was time to get kick back and relax and enjoy a week of sailing the blue waters of the British Virgin Islands.

The BVI’s were hit hard last year by hurricane Irma and are still in the midst of recovery. The locals are proud of their homes and are working hard to restore them back to their former glory and improve on them as well.

Our ports of call included Virgin Gorda, Cooper Island, Norman Island, Yost Van Dyke, Anguilla, and St. Maarten. Captain Sly likes to keep the daily itinerary a surprise until Captain Story time, and will sometimes go where the wind conditions are favorable.

Each port is a beautiful beach or cove with beach bars, restaurants, shops and activities like snorkeling, kayaking, scuba, and a tour to the Baths in Virgin Gorda. Every morning a tender brings guests to shore for beach time with tender service available throughout the day to and from the ship.

The ship itself is elegant with rich teak wood throughout and cabins outfitted with comfortable amenities. Cabin categories range from standard below deck to a suite complete with a King Sized bed. We stayed in a Admiral Suite on the main deck outfitted with a full-size bed, an upper pullman, ample storage, and central AC.

Each day the chef prepares three meals and a variety of snacks. The variety is limited, but the food quality is top notch, and he does take in allergy and vegetarian requests. There is also a daily afternoon snack hour, paired with rum swizzles of course!!!

We had a fantastic time exploring the islands with Sail Windjammer and look forward to trying out the Grenadine itinerary in the near future. For more info and to book your cruise visit: sailwindjammer.com

Families are welcome on the Mandalay with specialty cruises available during the summer months. We do recommend this cruise for older kids as there are no nannies or kids club aboard.

Getting There:

JetBlue serves many of the Caribbean islands with nonstop service from the New York Area, with convenient connections from the rest of the US and beyond. The clear leader in modern amenities with free Wifi, Direct TV, Complimentary movies when Direct TV is not available, and a good selection of healthy snacks, meals for purchase, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. To book your next flight visit: JetBlue.com

Mother’s Day Brunch at Trattoria Italienne @italiennenyc

 

Mother’s Day was a family affair at the richly decorated and cozy Flatiron eatery Trattoria Italienne.  Opened in 2016 by Chef Jared Sippel and General Manager James King, the cuisine is a mix of Northern Italian and Southern French and changes seasonally. 

Mother’s Day brunch offered a menu of house favorites with an option to add optional traditional bar snacks and beverages to the meal.

Home made breads/pastries

Cheeses

Meatballs

Proscuitto Platter

Bloody Mary

Tortelli Carbonara

Ocean Trout

Soft Shell Crab

We started our meal with Bloody Mary’s accompanied with an IPA beer chaser. It is a holiday after all. Mom received a complimentary glass of Rose to toast the day.

We were brought a selection of fresh breads, scones and pastries for the table with Jam to share, followed by a selection of bar snacks. The Potato Croquettes were favorites, made with yukon potato, arugula and black truffle vinaigrette. The thinly sliced prosciutto was fresh accompanied with cheeses and breadsticks.

For the next course we chose to share the Polpettini, pork meatballs with soft polenta and the tortilla carbonara. My son said the meatballs were the best he ever had!

We followed up with soft shell crab and the ocean trout since I am a seafood lover. The crab was crispy and a good portion, and the trout was flaky and cooked just right. 

For a special meal or a few cocktails stop by Trattoria Italienne. Open daily from 5:30pm to 11pm ( tuesday -thursday) and till midnight on friday & saturdays. Closes 9pm on sundays.  Brunch is served 11:30 am to 2:30pm on saturdays and sundays.

Located at 19 west 24th street New York, NY. Call (212) 600-5139 for more info and reservations. https://www.italiennenyc.com

 

Delmonico’s 150th Anniversary Ladies Luncheon @DelmonicosNYC

On Friday April 20th Delmonico’s Restaurant in downtown Manhattan celebrated 150 years of hosting a ladies only luncheon, comprised of 150 female leaders in business, media, food, and the arts. Delmonico’s was the first restaurant in the United States to serve women independently of men.

Chef Gabrielle Hamilton of PRUNE , a three time James Beard award winner headlined the luncheon exactly 150 years to the date in 1868, that celebrated this victory.

 

Trout Roe Photo: Braddock

Malakoff Photo: Braddock

Soft Shell Crab Photo: Braddock

Lamb Loin

Bruleed Rice Pudding Photo: Braddock

The original menu has similarities to the current one offered last week at the luncheon and can be seen here: original luncheon menu.  Our luncheon menu which is still available for lunch & dinner until the 28th started with Trout Roe and Shaved Radish, followed by Malakoff. Entree choices were Colorado Lamb Loin Chop or Cold Poached Mackerel. Dessert was a creamy bruleed rice pudding with strawberry merengue. 

Delmonico’s is an iconic New York institution that helped pave the way and remains diligent in maintaining this tradition. A must visit for a special dining experience.

Amparo, The Story of Havana Club Rum @RealHavanaClub #TheAmparoExperience #forevercuban

NEW YORK, NY – APRIL 03: The guava daqueri on display at an immersive theatrical experience “Amparo” presented by HAVANA CLUB Rum on April 3, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Havana Club)

A decades long battle over ownership rights to rum brand Havana Club has been recreated in Theatrical form and titled “Amparo”. A combination of storytelling, song, dance and live music. Bacardi goes the distance to explain why they are the true owners of the brand.

An immersive and interactive experience at Bill’s Townhouse in New York City, created by liquor giant Bacardi, takes the crowd through 1950’s pre-revolutionary Cuba, telling the story of the Arechabala’s family to the United States after the communist Cuban government took control of their company.

Roberto Ramirez, marketing director at Bacardi, believes the best way to convince consumers that they are in fact the authentic Havana Club, is through characters who showcase the journey.

Bacardi purchased the original recipe for the rum from the Arechabala family in 1994, However, Pernod Ricard too sells Havana Club and claims they are in fact the authentic version as it is distilled in Cuba and owns the company’s trademark. This marketing campaign by Bacardi began in Miami, came to New York, and will continue to other cities nationwide later this year.

The evening began with a cocktail reception featuring cocktails made with dark and light rums.

We were all given different color keys and divided into groups. These keys led us to veiled spirits meant to be unveiled with shots of Havana Club rum. Every group explored a different facet of the Arechabala family’s journey and struggle in communist cuba and their eventual exile to the United States. 

• Havana Club Anejo Blanco is distilled and aged for 1 year in oak barrels in Puerto Rico, blended then aged for a few more months. It is a medium bodied rum perfect for cocktail making.
• Havana Club Anejo Clásico is distilled and aged for 1 to 3 years then blended and aged some more. Can be mixed in cocktails yet smooth enough to drink neat or on the rocks.

    therealhavanaclub.com

Come Celebrate a Night of Great Food and Drink to Benefit No Kid Hungry: Taste of The Nation Wednesday April 18th @NoKidHungryNY @NoKidHungry #NoKidHungry

On Wednesday April 18th New York City’s Culinary Community will once again come together for a great cause: Taste of the Nation, for The No Kid Hungry Campaign from Share Our Strength.

More than 30 top chefs, restaurateurs and mixologists will descend upon the Brooklyn Expo Center( 72 Noble Street, Brooklyn, NY) for a night of great food and drink.

Taste of The Nation, now in it’s 29th year is focused on ensuring that all children in America have access to healthy food every day of the year. 100 percent of all proceeds raised from the event benefit No Kid Hungry’s work to end childhood hunger in America.

General Admission Tickets are $250, guests can enter at 7pm, $400 VIP tickets allow early access at 6pm. Cabanas are available for purchase and can seat 10, for $10,000. Visit: www.nokidhungry.org/newyork to purchase tickets now.

Participating Restaurants include: American Cut, Baar Baar, Bessou, BKLN Larder, Blue Smoke, Claro, Colonie, CUT, Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, Kung Fu Tea, Dough Nation, Pizza Loves Emily, Fausto, Ferris, High Street on Hudson, La Newyorkina, Little Tong Noodle Shop, Mokbar, Restaurant Marc Forgione, Restaurant Norman, Samesa, Shuka, Sunday in Brooklyn, Talde Temple Court, The Doughnut Project, Underwest Donuts, Vic’s and Walter’s Hot Dogs.

Full Coverage of the event will follow! Looking forward to seeing everyone in Brooklyn on Wednesday.

 

Fragrance Foundation Finalists Luncheon #TFFAwards

Romee Strijd and Greg Unis Photo by Casey Kelbaugh

Emily Bond and Ann Gottlieb Photo by Casey Kelbaugh

Jerry Vittorio and Linda G. Levy Photo by Casey Kelbaugh

Donna Kalajian and Carly Cardellino

 

The Fragrance Foundation held it’s annual finalists luncheon in NYC. Finalists were announced in several “best in fragrance” categories with winners announced on June 12th at the Fragrance Foundation awards June 12th hosted by Jane Krakowski at Lincoln Center, Tully Hall.

 

The Fragrance Foundation Announces:

• Ann Gottlieb, Hall of Fame Honoree
• Oliver Cresp, Lifetime Achievement Perfumer
• Romee Strijd, Face of the Year
• Winners for Editorial Excellence in Fragrance Coverage, Social Media Campaign, 360 Degree Marketing.
• Top Five Fragrance Foundation Awards Finalists.

The top five finalists for The Fragrance Foundation Awards and winners in Editorial Excellence, Social Media  Campaign, and 360 Degree Media campaign were unveiled.

Ann Gottlieb, celebrated perfume strategist and founder of Ann Gottlieb Associates, was announced as the 2018 Hall of Fame Honoree. Ms. Gottlieb is widely recognized in the fragrance industry for her masterful ability to translate brands and personalities into fragrances that are both captivating and enduring. Ms. Gottlieb, whose work spans across every fragrance and market category, helped create iconic fragrances such as Daisy Marc Jacobs, Christian Dior J’Adore, Calving Klein Eternity and countless others.

“I adore fragrance,” said Ms. Gottlieb. “I love this industry and the people in it. So I am thrilled to be honored by my peers for my life’s work, which has brought me so much joy and fulfillment.”

Olivier Cresp, Master Perfumer at Firmenich, was announced as the recipient of the Lifetime Perfumer Achievement Perfumer award. Both Ms. Gottlieb and Mr. Cresp will be honored by the fragrance industry at The Fragrance Foundation Awards.

“The Foundation’s mission is to inspire the world to discover the artistry and passion of fragrance,” said The Fragrance Foundation president Linda G. Levy. “Every single winner, finalist and honoree announced today has played a central role in helping to achieve this mission, and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to recognize their contributions.

” Victoria’s Secret Angel and IMG model, Romee Strijd was awarded The Fragrance Foundation’s Face of the Year, presented byGreg Unis, CEO of Victoria’s Secret Beauty.

Editorial Excellence in Fragrance Coverage awards were presented for three categories including Article, Online, and Feature. ELLE Magazine won both the Article and Feature categories with “Dream Catchers” and “This Is Your Brain on Vetiver,” respectively, both written by April Long. The Cut won the Online category for “It Took 150 Tries for Dior to Make Their Next Hit Perfume for Millennials” written by Kathleen Hou.

Parfums Christian Dior’s campaign for Miss Dior Eau De Parfum won the award for the best Social Media Campaign, while Gucci Bloom by Coty was voted as best 360- Degree Marketing Campaign.

 The Fragrance Foundation Awards 2018 Winners:

FACE OF THE YEAR: Romee Strijd

SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN OF THE YEAR: Winner: Miss Dior Eau de Parfum- Parfums Christian Dior

360-Degree Marketing Campaign of the Year: Gucci Bloom-Coty, Inc.

Editorial Excellence in Fragrance Coverage: 

Feature: Winner: Elle Magazine- This is Your Brain on Vetiver

Article: Winner: Elle Magazine-Dream Catchers

Online: Winner: THECUT.COM It took 150 tries for Dior to Make Their Next Hit for Millennials.

The Fragrance Foundation Awards Finalists were announced in the following categories: Fragrance of the Year ( women’s & men’s) in women’s luxury, men’s luxury, women’s prestige, men’s prestige, popular, perfume extraordinaire of the year, breakout star, indie fragrance of the year, packaging of the year ( women’s & men’s), home collection of the year, bath & body line of the year, home holiday/seasonal scent of the year, fragrance blog of the year, and fragrance hall of fame.

Look for Full Coverage as winners are announced on June 12th. Stay Tuned!

 

 

 

Elio Filippino Winery celebrates their 50th anniversary at San Carlo Osteria Piemonte @SanCarloNYC #ElioFilippino

Piedmont, A region of Italy that borders France and Switzerland, sits at the foot of the Alps. Turin, the capital is known for sophisticated architecture, cuisine and wine, particularly Barolo and Barbaresco. The Piemonte wine region produces arguably the best wines in all of Italy.

A few nights ago a group of wine and food writers were invited to celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Elio Filippino winery with a paired dinner at San Carlo Osterio Piemonte, one of the few NYC eateries specializing in Piemonte cuisine.

The chef creates dishes that symbolize the area. Piemonte cuisine is quiet different than other Italian fare. A very strong focus on antipasto, with tarte vegetables and rolled meats served with fresh tuna mayonnaise. The second coarse was the buckwheat gnocchi served in a light cheese sauce with locally sourced herbs and the ravioli, filled with beef, pork, and veal. The main course choices were the Arctic char, light, flaky, and very healthy and for meat eaters The beef cheeks with chickpeas.

The wine flowed throughout the evening. Some of the wines we tasted included the 2012 Barolo, the 2012 Barbaresco, The 2014 Langhe Nebbiolo and the 2016 Dolcetto.

Our favorite pairing came at the end of the evening with The pairing of The Moscato d’ Asti 2015. The dessert wine is sweet enough, but not too sweet and was paired with the traditional Piedmontese flan. Chocolate flavor, caramel, and cookie crumbs create the perfect texture and taste. A light and creamy Tiramisu was also a big hit with the guests.

For more info on the Elio Filippino winery visit ElioFilippino.com and to make a reservation at San Carlo Osterio Piemonte (90 Thompson Street) visit SanCarloNYC.com

New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 18 #NYFW18 #NewYorkFashionWeek

 

 

Front Row Christian Siriano Laverne Cox, Whoopi Goldberg, Meg Ryan, Cardi B

The Blonds

Every season in the last few years everyone in the industry speculates what the upcoming Fashion Week will be like. Will more designers drop out or relocate their shows elsewhere? Will new designers take their place? Will it be shortened or lengthened ? Will the dates and seasons be changed? Where will it be held? What does Fashion Week even mean to the industry anymore?

All those are relevant questions to an every changing global industry and with social media making a tremendous impact with the way editors and consumers are viewing fashion without the months buyers and editors previously had to view and contemplate the collections. 

That being said, Fashion Week will find a way to adjust. It does bring in close to $900 million dollars annually to the New York City economy and while different each season there are loads of shows, presentations, parties, beauty launches, gifting suites, and recharge lounges to get fashionistas, editors, influencers, and celebrities excited about the bi- annual event.

Christian Siriano

Jeremy Scott

The Red Dress Collection

Zimmermann

Bibhu Mohapatra

Vivienne Tam

The Blonds

Tory Burch

Fashion Hong Kong

Fashion Hong Kong

The Asia Collection

With so many shows running around can get exhausting. On February 12th and 13th Illumination PR held their annual NYFW FW 18 Celebrity Gifting Lounge. Guests sipped on champagne and received back massages courtesy of The Skin Spa. Some of the brands gifting influencers and celebrities included George The Jeweler, Palace Resorts, Jersey Shore Cosmetics, Its a 10, Pretty Little Thing, BooHoo Man, Marin Bee, Erno Laszlo, and many more.

Masika Kalysha (Love and Hip Hop)

Bethany Mota

Michael Copon

On the last day of Fashion Week Cygalle Dias of The Cygalle Dias Healing Spa held her editor sanctuary at Casita in the west village. A true believer in holistic healing guests received vegan manicures, massages, reiki healing treatments, spiritual readings, and hair extensions. 

One of our favorite events during Fashion Week was the WWD Style Dimension party at the Samsung 837 store. Michael Todd Beauty showcased his latest skincare devices, Mamonde and Amore Pacific showed off the latest and greatest Korean skincare for 2018, and OGX Hair did touchups for guests.

 

To kick off Fashion Week in a big way Ferragamo Fragrances held a swanky soiree at the west 56th street Townhouse once occupied by Elizabeth Taylor to launch their newest scent Amo Ferragamo

See you in September!!!!