The JetSetting Fashionista

Mill Valley, California

JSFashionista — Mon, 13 May 2013 04:53:14 +0000

Town of Mill Valley - If you make it across the Golden Gate Bridge to Marin County be sure to check out Mill Valley. It’s a neighboring town to Sausalito, which I think is even cuter than Sausalito and a bit less touristy since the ferry from SF doesn’t drop off here as it does in Sausalito. It reminds me of where I grew up in Winnetka, Il. with very small quaint shops and a small-town feel to it. Mill Valley, CA.

Moss & Daughters - This is a fabulous boutique owned by Tyler Florence’s wife. It’s adorable and has some of the cutest gift cards I’ve ever seen (I bought a card for my sister) and the coolest vintage alcohol vats. 1 El Paseo Lane. Mill Valley, CA. 415-388-6677.

Tyler Florence Shop - If you like to cook or enjoy nice tableware and gadgets for your kitchen this spot is for you. It’s very well done with elegant white interior decor and even a small kitchen where Tyler frequents for cooking demos and classes (so fun I’d love to attend that!). He is also a parent, probably the cutest part of his store are all the kids products they offer. I, of course, picked up a gift for my nephew Henry and I was very impressed with their nice looking gift wrap, sticker, and ribbon. As someone who works in retail I appreciate the small touches which go a long way and make the experience that much more memorable. 59 Throckmorton Avenue Mill Valley. CA 94941. 415- 380-9200.

Lovely gift wrap. I wish every gift looked like this!

El Paseo Restaurant - I was told (by Marc, my Sausalito local expert) that this is one of the best restaurants in Mill Valley. It’s very historic and in 2010 Tyler Florence and Sammy Hagar bought the restaurant and now run it together. Everything from the architecture, interior decorating and decor, charming patios, and adorable bench nook area (that welcomes you as you arrive) it’s all fabulous. After having El Paseo on my to do list I finally made it in for a Mother’s Day Dinner. It was everything I had imagined and more. Both the food and service were excellent! We loved our waitress Samantha (what a patient, attentive, knowledgeable woman) and David (The Director of Operations) who took especially great care of us. I’d recommend starting with a salad; both the Butter Lettuce and Iceberg were great, and then if you’re like me and love meat try the Filet with some sides. We loved the Smashed Potatoes and Asparagus. As if our delicious dinner wasn’t enough, we were lucky enough to enjoy dessert outside on the patio with our friend’s Jackie and John. We all agreed the Pecan Praline was our favorite (shown). When you visit, if you have the chance have a pre-dinner cocktail on the lovely patio, or inside in the beyond adorable Bar. Wherever you dine or drink here you can’t go wrong. I’m already looking forward to visiting again soon! 17 Throckmorton Avenue. Mill Valley, CA. 94931. 415-388-0741.

Beyond gorgeous Orchids.

One of the outdoor seating areas where we enjoyed dessert.

The Pecan Praline Dessert. Delicious!

The Fire Pit. The most popular spot on the patio!

A beyond fabulous mirror

Me, my Mom, John & Jackie enjoying dessert on the Patio

Me and the Guest of honor, my Mom!

Wine & Cheese 101

JSFashionista — Mon, 06 May 2013 06:04:18 +0000

If you haven’t already realized I’m a huge Wine lover! Whenever given the chance, I’m dragging friends to a Wine Class with me, visiting Wineries, or attending Food & Wine events such as The South Beach Food & Wine (SoBe) Festival. As a result, I’ve attended my fair share of classes so thought it was only appropriate to share my experiences.

For those New York Foodie’s looking for the perfect Wine & Cheese class, how does one decide between the many excellent options? Whether you want a more formal structured class, a class taking place touring Cheese caves or a more intimate structure there’s something for everyone.

Murray’s Cheese “The Harmony of Wine & Cheese”

One of the oldest, and considered by many as the best Cheese shops in NYC offers an on premise Cheese & Wine Class. The class is co-taught by a Murray’s cheese expert and a Wine Expert (In this case it was a Christie’s Auction House Wine Expert). Those looking to learn from experts in both Cheese & Wine will appreciate this class since equal time is given to both as you sip and taste delicious pairings. After class you’re able to snag your favorite Murray’s Cheeses (at a small discount). Most agree it doesn’t get better than that.

Artisanal Cheese ”Cheese & Wine 101″

For those Cheese lovers looking for a more formal classroom experience this is the class for you. It’s held at The Artisinal Cheese Center (Midtown West). Upon arriving, Artisinal’s delicious Fondue is served setting the tone for a fabulous cheese experience. The Wine portion was taught by a Wine distributor, not the same Wine aficionado expertise seen at Murray’s yet still quite knowledgeable in Wine.

NYC Wine Classes ”Wine 101 Night”

An intimate “Mom and Pop” class in a smaller more unique setting (On the 3^rd story of a charming walk up building) featuring Murray’s Cheese and a dozen wine tastings. For those looking for a more off the beaten path experience, you’ve found it. Also a good date spot. The class is taught by the Owner whose love for Wine is contagious while teaching some great fundamentals.

Yountville, California

JSFashionista — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 03:20:34 +0000

As I’ve been further exploring and reading about Wine Country Yountville continues to intrigue me and peak my curiosity. Between the fabulous Dining Scene; French Laundry, Ad Hoc, Bouchon (enough said) as well as their amazing Wineries it seemed like the perfect destination for a long weekend out of San Francisco. In order to plan this weekend I sought professional help (as in the amazing Concierge provided to Member’s of Ram’s Gate Winery, where I’m a member). Kudos to Lisa the concierge at Ram’s Gate for planning the perfect Wine tasting day.

Wineries to Visit -

Mai Sonry - The first stop on our wine tasting in Yountville was at Mai Sonry a fabulous tasting room (a bit of an understatement it’s a house with gorgeous gardens and patio’s all where you can enjoy the various wines they pour. We had the pleasure of visiting while there was a garden party so we saw the enjoyment of the garden’s while enjoying our tasting in one of the more intimate tasting areas upstairs. Regardless you can’t go wrong whether you’re inside tasting or outside taking in the scenic gardens! 6711 Washington St. Yountville, CA. 94599. 707-944-0889.

The spectacular Garden space

One of the tasting rooms/sitting rooms

Where to Stay -

Villagio Inn & Spa – If you’re looking for a super convenient, luxurious Hotel & Spa I highly recommend The Villagio Inn & Spa. It is in the center of downtown Yountville, across the street from Ad Hoc. The hotel has a gorgeous pool as well as a must see Spa. I was lucky enough to have a Spa Treatment, one of the best massages I’ve ever had (be sure to ask For Carol). 6481 Washington St Yountville, CA 94599. (707) 944-8877

The gorgeous trees as you enter the resort

Very large guest room with lovely terrace

What else to do -

Spa at Villagio Inn & Spa – To me, a relaxing vacation includes a visit to the Spa. Although I enjoy Spa Treatments immensely I usually save them as a treat on vacation or if I really am stressed and need them while I’m home. Needless to say, the Villagio Spa was fabulous. I have never enjoyed a massage more and even during the treatment I kept reminding myself to add Carol (the fabulous masseuse) to my contact list so when I return I can request her. Little details from the heated blanket to the aroma therapy scent I was given the choice to select, to the steam towel put on my back during my lower body treatment, no detail was forgotten. The best part was putting on my warm robe post massage and then exploring the other amenities such as the Lemon Steam Room (so refreshing I didn’t want to leave) or the Sauna and outside Women’s private hot tub. As evident from my rave reviews, this spa is now one of my most favorite’s which I plan to frequent again!! 6481 Washington St Yountville, CA 94599. (707) 944-8877.

Where to Eat -

Ad Hoc - Thanks to a friend, Jane (a fabulous food blogger) Ad Hoc was at the top of my list (of course,right behind French Laundry) and I was thrilled to experience Thomas Keller’s more relaxed YET delicious other Yountville restaurant. I went on a Sunday night and the set menu was Steak, Salad, Cheese Plate and Ice Cream Sundays. Everything was delicious and I’m already planning my visit back although next time I’m dying to experience their famous Fried Chicken (served only one night per week). 6476 Washington St. Yountville, CA. 94599. 707-944-2487.

Bouchon Bakery – I was lucky enough to have a lovely breakfast here on my last morning in town and it was perfection. I was up early enjoying the peacefulness of Yountville (by early I mean 8am, before the line was out the door) and it was lovely. Their coffee, breakfast pastries and sweets are divine. Be prepared for a long wait as every time I passed the Bakery (besides 8am when I went) the line was out the door and down the block.6528 Washington St Yountville, CA 94599. (707) 944-2253.

Bouchon Bistro- I’ve been told this is a must try so it’s on my to do list for next time! 6534 Washington St. Yountville, CA. 94599. 707-944-8037.

Rutherford, California

JSFashionista — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 00:50:57 +0000

Swanson Vineyards - This is another very small charming vineyard with really cool interior decor and exterior. One of the rooms was designed by guest designer Kate Spade. It’s lovely to sit outside on the picnic tables and enjoy their delicious wines. I recently learned on a second visit back that they have the most DELICIOUS Clarke’s Chocolate Bark. Be careful, you’ll get hooked (as I am). 1271 Manley Ln, Rutherford, CA. (707) 967-3500.

The lovely exterior and entrance

The ladies enjoying a tasting in the gorgeous Kate Spade decorated room

The “Sip Shoppe”

Honig Winery – Another great intimate Winery close to Swanson is Honig. This was one of the first stops during my FIRST trip to Wine Country so it will always have a place in my heart. we had a lovely tasting guide Anne lead us through their wines and I went on a Monday so it wasn’t too crowded and we were given great individual attention and T.L.C. If it’s nice out try to sit outside there’s an adorable patio and ask for Anne. 850 Rutherford Road. Rutherford, CA. 94573. 707-963-5618.

The lovely patio

The ladies toasting to our first stop on our Wine Tour

Even Honigs water jug and grapes are adorably presented!

Interior Tasting Bar

The lovely Anne;

a wonderful attentive hostess with excellent wine knowledge

Round Pond - I kept hearing Round Pond was a great spot to visit so I, probably like you envisioned there to be gorgeous gardens filled with ponds. I was surprised to learn there is no Round Pond (ironic, right?) although the Winery is still lovely to visit and something I’d recommend. They have a very large building with the tasting room upstairs and the Wine Making tours on the lower level. I visited on a PERFECT day! Temperature was high 60′s and we enjoyed our Food Pairing & Tasting (which I highly recommend vs. the Wine pairing food less) on the patio taking in the lovely weather and gorgeous views. The interior bar looks very inviting as do the large tasting tables (see pictures below). If I return on a cooler day I’d definitely take advantage of the great inside seating and areas to hang with your group. 875 Rutherford Road. Rutherford, CA. 94573. 707-302-2575.

Perfect sized table for a large group enjoying a tasting

overlooking the outdoor terrace

Fire Pit overlooking the Vineyard

The AMAZING scenic views!!

My favorite part; The Wine AND Cheese/Sandwich pairing

Sonoma, California

JSFashionista — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 18:51:41 +0000

Now that I’m officially a Californian I’m enjoying the regular perks of living less than an hour from Wine Country. I head to the area as frequently as possible and I’ve already found a few favorites I’ve returned back to and will continue to visit. Within Sonoma (the closest area to San Francisco) my favorites are below.

Scribe Winery - If you’re like me and prefer an off-the-beaten path, charming, unique winery vs. a large estate (the kind where you’ll see tour buses) this is the spot for you! It’s very intimate with about five picnic tables and, when the weather permits, wine tastings on picnic blankets on their grass yard. For each of my visits I’ve had a lovely taster walk us through their delicious wines. The Scribe team is very approachable, accommodating, talkative and the type you see yourself wanting to have another drink or cup of coffee with. Talk about a one-of-a-kind visit, this is it! 2300 Napa Road Sonoma, CA 95476. (707) 939-1858.

Day trip to Scribe from SF with pal Amanda

Scribe’s delicious assorted snacks

(the shortbread cookies are my favorite although they’re not always on the menu)

Brought NYC visitor Katherine to Scribe for a tasting (she fell in love….)

Rams Gate Winery – As a newbie to SF I’ve been asking around for wine country suggestions and every list includes this new (about a year and a half old) winery on the edge of wine country (the closest winery I know to the city, about 45 minutes away). After being greeted by charming and handsome ‘welcome greeter’ Connor we were seated at a table in the main dining room/tasting area. Not only is the winery gorgeous, imagine a grander versions of a Restoration Hardware store, that serves amazing wine. Win-win. My favorite part are all the cool rooms within the winery including a fun outdoor fire pit, a member’s only living room lounge area, and the long bar (in the main area) with scenic views. Definitely visit Ram’s Gate during any Wine Country visit and you will not be disappointed. 28700 Arnold Dr, Sonoma, CA. (707) 721-8700 .

The very grand bar with scenic pond & vineyard views

The Member’s Private Library

Picturesque views from the tasting/dining area

The Member’s outdoor Fire Pit

Where to Eat:

Fremont Diner- For delicious Southern comfort food this is the perfect spot. This came recommended by a Sonoma local, my friend Camille, and also from Scribe Winery. The atmosphere was charming with such delicious food I keep returning back for more. This is a MUST SEE during any trip to Wine Country. 2698 Fremont Dr, Sonoma, CA. (707) 938-7370.

Norway: Mandal & Sogne (Southern Coast)

JSFashionista — Sun, 26 Aug 2012 08:54:32 +0000

I was fortunate to spend a week in Norway during August 2012. If my calculations are correct this would be my tenth visit to Norway to see family. This trip was special for a couple of reasons. First, because it had been more than seven years since my last visit, and second because my brother-in-law Andy was going for the first time. During this trip we spent a weekend along the Southern Coast at my family’s hytte (summer home). While in Mandal be sure to experience the below.

Welcome to Norway (in Norwegian)

Where to Eat:

Provianten - For a typical Norwegian meal this is a MUST-try. The owner (shown below) was very attentive, knowledgeable, and hands on. We arrived just past the lunch-time rush so we agreed, in order for our group of 14 to stay together, to eat outside (On a picturesque deck although we were covered with an umbrella to shield us from the rain!) The meal was amazing, one of my favorites in Norway. Starting with their home-made breads (focaccia, Danish sour bread “rugbrod,” to the French bread) everything was delicious. For entrees we selected their famous “Fish Soup” and a house-made pasta with Chicken Alfredo. For a non-brave fish eater I couldn’t have been more impressed with the fish soup. It was rich and creamy but lacked the fishy taste I usually detest. I loved it! Store Elvegate 45A 4514 Mandal, Norway. 482 78 888.

The fabulous owner we loved!

The MUST-TRY Fish Soup (with a Beer of course!)

Redaktoren - This is a pub/restaurant in town. I didn’t try it this visit but it comes highly recommended by my family as a great spot for a drink and a casual bite. Store Elvegate 25, 4514 Mandal, Norway. 47 38 27 15 30.

Siv (our host), my mom, Lise (my sister), Jan Halvard and Sisdel

Andy and I enjoying beers on a rainy afternoon

Jonas - If you want good pizza (they are known for their pizza) or a beer this is the spot to try. We stopped by for a quick beer post shopping and it’s very quaint with nice outside seating on the deck. Store Elvegate 25, 4514 Mandal, Norway. 47 38 27 15 00.

What else to do:

Boat - Most of my memories of Norway involve some kind of boat. As a kid it was mostly sailboats or rowboats however this trip during our visit to Mandal we were lucky enough to experience motor boating. My motor boating was courtesy of Jan Halvard (shown below), his wife Sisdel, and his fearless co-captain Noa.

Our fearless Captain Jan Halvard

His Co-Captain Noa

Where to Stay:

Mandal - I was lucky enough to stay at my cousin Siv and Asbjorn’s hytte. It was perfect with gorgeous ocean views and my cousin Ase and her two kids were there which added to the fun. We spent one night in Mandal having a fabulous home-cooked dinner with the family and the second night in Sogne. Mandal, Norway.

Ocean views from Siv and Osbjorn’s hitta

A typical Norwegian boat house along the water

Sogne - If you make it to Sogne (about 30 minutes south of Mandal) and are lucky enough to visit our cousin Cigurd’s home you’re in store for a one-of-a-kind hytte. See some highlights of this fabulous lake home below. Sogne, Norway.

Our fabulous Host Cigurd

Sausalito, California

JSFashionista — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 03:27:15 +0000

Sausalito - Just across the water from San Francisco in Marin County lies this wonderfully charming town. You may wonder– what’s the best way to get there? There are only two routes; the ferry from SF or by car. I’ve taken both and although there is no thrill like driving across the Golden Gate Bridge and looking up enjoying the amazing architecture, I have to say the ferry is my favorite. I’ve taken the ferry both ways; into the city from Sausalito and from SF to Sausalito. The best part is on a nice day sitting on the top of the ferry and enjoying the amazing views and great weather (seen below during a perfectly sunny 70+ degree SF afternoon!).

Marc, my local Sausalito guide and me

Cupita - This is a very new Mexican restaurant in Sausalito. The interior is very cute and it’s on the main drag of town (Bridgeway Road) however our experience had mixed reviews. The service wasn’t so great and although the food was pretty good, sometimes, bad service can ruin a restaurant even if they have potential. That was the case here. I’d give it another try, however I’m not sure if the rest of my dining party is as forgiving. 739 Bridgeway Road. Sausalito, CA. 94965. 415-331-7400.

Cibo (coffee shop) - During each of my two visits to Sausalito I’ve been here. It’s great. A very cool coffee shop that also serves delicious desserts and fabulous ice cream shots. I love the interior decor and the fabulous outdoor area in front of the building. 1201 Bridgeway Road. Sausalito, CA 94965. 415-331-CIBO (2426).

The Lighthouse Coffee Shop - Great local diner for breakfast. Marc and I went one weekday (his routine before work) and had tasty omelets sitting at the counter. Very fun, tasty, local casual spot. 1311 Bridgeway Road. Sausalito, CA. 415-331-3034.

The Taco Shop - If you want an authentic Mexican joint this is it. I ventured in for an afternoon snack (for me you can never have too much Mexican so chips and salsa is what I expected to try). Upon seeing all the other options I ended up trying the salsa (delicious, very authentic) and a few tacos. The guys who worked there were total sweethearts (see below). I can’t wait to return! 1115 Bridgeway Road. Sausalito, CA. 415-331-5595.

Sushi Ran - This is considered by most SF locals as the best sushi in the city. Sadly I haven’t been yet but it’s on my must-try list for next time. I was supposed to go two visits ago but my flight was delayed so I didn’t make dinner that night. 107 Caledonia Street Sausalito, CA 94965. 415-332-3620.

Park City, Utah

JSFashionista — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:04:50 +0000

For our second annual R U Reddy Ski Trip the destination was Park City, Utah. I was thrilled to visit a new city and add another great Ski Town to both my travel destinations and my list of West Coast skiing (which is now Park City & Aspen, limited I know!). There was a group of 10, 5 ladies and 5 guys referred to as the R U Reddy Ski Trip Gang (Two of our organizer’s are Reddy’s so it was named in their honor). I highly recommend Park City for anyone who hasn’t yet been. The skiing is great (about 6 mountains within 30-45 minutes) to ski as well as a very charming, cute town with very nice friendly people and a nice cozy ski scene and fabulous dining and fun night-life.

Where to stay - We rented a house through VRBO which was AMAZING. It was below the mountain, literally between the Ski Lift and Town. It was a perfect layout as well as couldn’t have been more ideal within walking distance to town and the Park City Ski Lift (both 1 minute). VRBO Park City Rental House.

View from the Mountain of Town, overlooking rental house

Stein Eriksen Lodge (Hotel) - This is one of the Hotel’s at Deer Valley. It’s at the bottom of the slopes, amazing location with a fabulous Apres Ski (so we were told, although we thought it was a bit older and mellow) on their outdoor terrace. I also learned the lodge is named after a famous Norwegian Olympic skier Stein Eriksen who is the Head Ski Instructor at Deer Valley. 7700 Stein Way. Park City, UT. 84060. 435-649-3700.

The girl’s and Ben (the horse) pre Sleigh Ride

Where to Eat/Drink:

After speaking to many friend’s who had visited Park City I had a great list of restaurants and bars to check out. Unfortunately in a four-day trip there isn’t enough time to see/try everything but here’s a list of what I’d recommend checking out during your trip.

High West Distillery & Saloon - This is by far the coolest Bar (distillery)/Restaurant in town. It’s very new so it’s a HOT spot. We went our first night around happy hour and by the time happy hour wrapped up there was a line to get in and the restaurant was full for dinner. Plan ahead and make a reservation BEFORE arriving in town. Very cool spot!! 703 Park Avenue. Park City, UT. 84060. 435-649-8300.

Grappa- This came recommended from everyone. It’s supposed to have great Italian.151 Main Street. Park City, UT. 84060. 435-645-0636.

Chimayo – Same owner’s as Grappa supposed to be great! 368 Main Street. Park City, UT. 84060. 435-649-6222.

Zoom – This is owned by Robert Redford. Everyone recommends trying it and it’s right in the middle of town, very charming. I was able to pop in and see the restaurant although we didn’t get to eat during this visit. Definitely next time!! 660 Main Street. Park City, UT. 84060. 435-649-9108.

Davanza’s Old Town - This was a super casual convenient spot right in town (across from the Distillery). We ended up having a few casual bites here. Great pizza and tasty tacos too. 690 Park Ave. Park City, UT. 84060. 435-649-2222.

Bars:

No Name Saloon - This is where everyone goes, day or night. In the 4 nights we went out we spent 3 at No Name Saloon. After visiting you’ll understand why it has a Cheers, local neighborhood feel to it and is where everyone goes. 447 Main Street. Park City, UT. 84060. 435-649-6667.

The Spur Bar & Grill - This was on my list to try as it has great bands and is supposed to be chill. Sadly I didn’t get to visit but I’d still check it out if I were in Park City. 352 Main Street. Park City, UT. 84060. 435-615-1618

Sky Blue Rooftop Lounge - This is a more upscale outdoor lounge in the Sky Blue Hotel. It sounds very cool and I’ve heard great things about it. 201 Heber Avenue. Park City, UT. 84068. 800-231-7428.

Flanagan’s – This was another fun bar we went to. The basement was super fun with a live band and a good scene. 438 Main Street. Park City. UT. 84060. 435-649-8600.

Miami/South Beach, Florida

JSFashionista — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 22:21:03 +0000

During my most recent visit to Miami, February 2012, I went from being a hater to thinking Miami’s definitely a great city — especially for long weekend from NYC (only a 2-hour flight!). Between its fabulous weather (How can you not fall in love when it’s in the 30s back in NYC and in the 80s here in February) the amazing restaurants to its various cultures, South Florida grew on me. I’m happy to say I’m now a big fan and will be returning annually for its South Beach Food & Wine (SoBe) festival. SoBe is what brought me and my dear friend Lindsay a.k.a. thelunchbelle.com thelunchbelle.com to Miami in the first place.

Where to Stay:

Eden Roc - Although we would have loved to stay in South Beach we ended up a bit further away at the Eden Roc Hotel (next to Fontainebleau Hotel). This worked out perfectly as a lot of the SoBe events took place at these two hotels. The Eden Roc was huge with two towers (be sure to request the newer one), three pools (we of course found the adults’ pool day one and loved the peace and quiet of no children) and a beach front location. 4525 Collins Avenue. Miami Beach, Florida. 33140. 305-531-0000.

The adult pool with beach views and delicious margaritas (my favorite in Miami)

Bed’s almost as comfortable as Westin’s heavenly bed!

Recently renovated rooms with great bathrooms

Hotel Fontainebleau - This was next door to the Eden Roc and there were a ton of SoBe events hosted here. The pool was also a great hotspot during the day – we spent a day laying out here. It reminded me of the pool scene in Vegas; very lively with gorgeous waitresses and pool staffers – quite a hotspot. It also has a branch of one of my favorite NYC Italian restaurants, Scarpetta (see below in where to eat). 4441 Collins Avenue. Miami Beach. Florida. 33140. 800-548-8886.

Where to have Drinks & Eat (some spots are also Hotels):

Joe’s Stone Crab - As everyone knows Joe’s is a must see/eat in Miami. Lindsay (thelunchbelle.com) and I made sure to hit it up during our visit. As expected, we loved it! Note the restaurant isn’t open on Sundays during lunch but it has a great-take away cafe that is (with the SAME menu) so that’s the route to go. Also if you’re lucky enough to snag a stool at the bar you can order food and drinks there vs. the self-serve area where you order then sit at a table. 11 Washington Avenue. Miami Beach, FL. 33139. 305.673.0365.

Photo courtesy of thelunchbelle.com

J.S.F. and thelunchebelle.com

Scarpetta - This is in the Hotel Fontainebleau and we dropped in to see/compare it with the one I’ve eaten at in NYC. It’s GORGEOUS. The interior is very nautical with lots of windows, rope decor…. One of my favorite most memorable restaurant decors I’ve seen. Even if you don’t get a chance to eat here, definitely visit and sip a drink at the fabulous bar. 4441 Collins Avenue. Miami Beach. Florida. 33140. 800-548-8886.

Delano South Beach - As you’ve probably heard, a must-see in Miami is the Delano South Beach. I had no idea what to expect but the gorgeous interior lobby with a Rose Bar and Umi Sake & Sushi Bar (the white restaurant pictured below) immediately impressed me. For anyone who’s been to the Rose Bar in NYC (at The Gramercy Park Hotel) and is familiar with the amazing fresh smelling wood, it smells exactly the same in Miami. Crazy! Little did I know the best part was the gorgeous pool and landscaping behind the hotel. 1685 Collins Avenue. Miami Beach, FL. 33139. 305-672-2000.

Photo courtesy of thelunchbelle.com

Umi Sushi & Sake Bar

The Shore Club - Another great spot for drinks in South Beach. It has one of the coolest outdoor bar areas I’ve ever seen. It’s romantically lit with candlelight and a great scene. We arrived pre Sunset and a few drinks later the sun had set and the candles were gorgeous. Definitely another spot on my must see Miami list! 1901 Collins Avenue. Miami Beach, FL. 33139. 305-695-3100.

The Setai Hotel - This is a gorgeous hotel with a spectacular lobby (interior and exterior). I was lucky enough to visit and have a bite in The Grill Restaurant. Overall I was very impressed with the hotel’s architecture, decor and the restaurant. Although the restaurant wasn’t too crowded when I ate (around 9 p.m.) the service wasn’t as spectacular as I’d expected. However, I will never forget the gimlet I was served, which was to die for. The habanero pepper (see picture below) was a fabulous and unique touch. I’d still suggest you try the restaurant; hopefully I was there on an off night. 2001 Collins Avenue. South Beach, Florida. 33139. 305.520.6000

Beyond gorgeous!!

The most memorable Gimlet I’ve ever had.

St Michel, France

JSFashionista — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 14:27:30 +0000

St. Michel - This is a great site to see. It’s a 4-hour trip from Paris and has a ton of history and is along the English Channel. It offers gorgeous views while there and also provides a wonderful opportunity to take in the French countryside during the drive from Paris.

Views from St. Michel looking out to the Beach/Water area

(Beach if low tide, water if high)

Adorable small streets, very narrow stairways.

Couldn’t be more charming!