Sweet & Savory delights

Moving from the Bay Area was one of the hardest moves I’ve made thus far.
Not only was it picturesque, filled with unique people + treasures, but it is also a food lovers paradise.
There’s the legendary Ferry Building’s artisan vendors and impeccable Napa Valley wines and there are more mouthwatering restaurants than you could possibly try in your lifetime. Quite frankly, it’s a dream place to live for a girl like me.

Los Angeles on the other hand has never really been renowned for their haute cuisine or “foodie” culture but in the 10 years I was away, a lot has changed. Celebrated chef’s have opened up restaurants that rival some of San Francisco’s best. Food trucks are all the rage. And there are a bunch of small, independent, handmade, artisan quality purveyors selling their treats at farmers markets and stores city wide. It’s exciting. The possibilities for L.A. are endless!

When a friend heard that I was quite the food lover {and more specifically, on the hunt for gourmet ice cream}, she recommended I try a great little spot on Melrose. As a sidenote, I’m damn lucky to have friends that know me so well and have such great taste!

A little backstory . . . at every single ice cream shop, I make note of all the flavors and if they have Salted Caramel, it’s the first thing I sample. The reason being, San Francisco is known for having some of the best ice cream on the planet. With places like Bi-Rite Creamery, Humphry Slocombe and Mr. and Mrs. Miscellaneous – the bar has been set. Really, really high. And Salted Caramel is a fan favorite in the Bay Area. I’ve tasted many replica’s of this flavor, but few shops actually get it right. Salted Caramel is the benchmark for me. If you get it right, you’re likely doing everything right.

I dropped by Neveux Artisan Creamery just before closing for a quick sugar fix. The owner, Leo, greeted me warmly and offered me a silver spoon laced with salty, caramel goodness. And oh-wow, was it was love at first taste! I took one bite and exclaimed, “HOLY Sh**! This is better than Bi-Rite.” I looked at Leo’s face light up with joy. Since Bi-Rite is considered by many to be the pinnacle of gourmet ice cream, he was pleased indeed.

Leo is an inspiring man. His interest in the culinary world began at 13, when he worked at a Greek restaurant. And while he loved food, life led him down a more traditional path – college, graduate school and eventually working in advertising. After living in L.A. for 18 years he relocated to San Francisco for a job and spent 3.5 years exploring all of the culinary delights of his neighborhood in the Mission. He witnessed the success of Bi-Rite Creamery in particular and it inspired him to start developing his own flavors at home. Soon he had created over 20 flavors and was getting an enthusiastic response from friends, family and anyone willing to taste his homemade concoctions.

Shockingly, a few weeks after signing on to a new job, Leo found out he had a brian tumor. After going through such a life altering ordeal, he was inspired to quit the 9-to-5 grind, move back to L.A. and explore opening his own ice cream shop. He jokes that “someone had to save Los Angeles from frozen yogurt!”. On September 2, 2012 Leo opened NEVEUX Artisan Creamery on Melrose Avenue. Coincidentally, in the same location of celebrated L.A. chef, Susan Feniger’s original Border Grill.
Since opening, Leo has been serving up, handmade, small batch ice cream to rave reviews. I’m so honored to have sat down and chatted with Leo and am excited for you to hear a bit more about him and his journey to living his dream. Enjoy!

What prompted you to open Neveux Artisan Creamery in LA?

Living in the Bay Area and being exposed to the sweet & savory genre of ice cream, along with an early and life-long interest in cooking. Plus, opening my own business was important to me.

What are you trying to do differently?

Organic ingredients, pairing contrasting and unexpected herbs, spices, fruit, vegetables and other culinary items not ordinarily associated with ice cream. Simplifying – avoiding complex, overloaded, “kitchen-sink” flavors. NO toppings – it’s all about the unique ice cream flavors!

I recently tried a few flavors and your ice cream is hands down the best I’ve ever tasted. Ever. It is well balanced, complex yet totally simple and has just the right amount of sweetness. What’s your secret?

I’m not sure I have any secrets, I just find something I want to work with and figure out what to pair it with and then continually work on improving it. I work on the flavor until that flavor really pops. No false advertising here – if the ice cream tag says “Pineapple Sage,” you’re going to taste pineapple and sage!

{In the kicthen, making Strawberry Balsamic ice cream}

I notice that you pursue the best, not only in your ice cream but your coffee and tea selection as well. Why is aiming high, important to you? What is it about finding or creating “the best of the best” that appeals to you?

Folks can get mediocre stuff anywhere, if you’re not trying to the serve the best why serve it at all. People return for quality.

There has been a big movement back to artisanal food products, craftsmanship and small batch production. What interests you about creating artisanal quality ice creams from scratch?

It’s amazing how good food taste when it’s fresh, when it goes from kitchen to consumer in less than 24 hours, and doesn’t include any artificial sweeteners, food coloring, shelf-stabilizers, etc. When high-production food items are made in a factory, shipped to the manufacturer’s distribution warehouse, shipped to the retailer’s warehouse, then shipped to the store and eventually make it to your table, the food often ends-up tasting bland, the subtle flavor qualities have been lost. Our small batches are made with fresh organic ingredients, set in the freezer overnight and are served the next day.

What inspires + motivates you to keep doing what you do?

I love what I’m doing – creating new flavors, running my own shop, making people happy. It takes a lot of work but I love it.

{Leo Neveux making his delicious small batch ice creams}

I’m always fascinated by how other people balance creativity with running a business. I consider what you do to be highly creative, so I’d love to know if you struggle with this balance? And if so, how you deal with it.

It’s definitely a challenge. Sometimes I have to put creativity on hold so I can just make sure that I maintain the right level of inventory with my existing flavors to meet the demand at the retail location, the wholesale buyers, private catering gigs, etc. I’ve got a list of items that I’ve created and that have been successful but that I can’t always keep in stock because I’m too busy maintaining the standard inventory. And then there’s – pay the bills, change the light bulbs, pay the plumber and replace the kitchen faucet in the three-bay sink, provide the accountant with all the data for taxes, order the coffee, order the paper goods, submit payroll, create the employee schedule… it’s a lot.

You clearly have an entrepreneurial spirit. I share that same sense of adventure with what I do. Have you always wanted to “do your own thing”? What are the most challenging things about working for yourself? What are the most gratifying?

Yes, I’ve always wanted to do my own thing but I somehow veered off on a more traditional path. Fortunately I found my way back. One of the most challenging things about working for myself is that most everything starts and ends with me. The first few years of most new businesses are about keeping the overhead low so we can sustain ourselves until the business gets to a level where we can take on additional employees. We’re getting close but not there yet so putting in 15-16 hour days, 7 days a week – gets a little taxing.
They also say if you want to learn about yourself get in a relationship. I think that holds true for going into business for yourself and then of course, having employees!

I’m quite obsessed with beauty + aesthetics, so I’m curious, what does beauty mean to you? What do you find ‘beautiful’? And how do you strive to bring beauty to your work?

Wow, so many things but the classic designs of the Art Deco era, summertime on the coast of Maine, things with simplicity and focus, the craftsmanship of handmade flatware, gorgeous fabrics {I used to find old furniture at swap meets and then have them re-upolstered so I spent a lot of time rummaging through bolts of fabric downtown}, most anything “classic”.
As it relates to my work beauty is in the quality and simplicity of the product and the response that it elicits from the folks who eat it.

I’m assuming that you have a love of good food. What are a few of your favorite spots we should be trying right now in LA?

I literally have not stopped since I’ve been back in Los Angeles so I rarely get a chance to dine out. Years ago I used to love to eat at Chaya Brasserie on Alden off Robertson – their venison is amazing!

What would your last meal {drinks included} on earth be?

Start with braised scallops in a white wine, butter sauce topped with parmesan cheese, lobster for the surf and beef wellington for the turf, a bottle of Bordeaux and a Sacher Tort for dessert.

WHY do you do what you do?

I’ve tried a lot of other things. This is what I like, and I think I just might be good at it.

~

Enjoy this little teaser video I put together after my time at Neveux . . .

Big thanks to Leo for taking the time to chat with me.
And if you’re in Los Angeles, add this to your “Must Try” list ~ and tell Leo I sent you!

xo

The Top 5 things on my radar this week!

{Photos via sfgirlbybay | makeshift society | dailycandy}

Makeshift Society

Makeshift has been on my radar for a year now. And rightly so, it’s quite possibly the coolest co-working space ever. Leave it to two design-savvy ladies (retail veteran + business strategist Rena Tom along with Victoria Smith of sfgirlbybay fame), to create a space specifically for us creative folks. Think working alongside bloggers, architects, photographers, designers and more. The “clubhouse” looks totally gorgeous {bright, white and cozy} and they even have classes for members to learn everything from how to craft floral arrangements to the in’s and out’s of social media. Awesome, right? You can peep a little behind-the-scenes video about Makeshift here.

{Photos via b. patisserie | upout.com | matcha dipped baguette | sfgate.com}

b. patisserie

I’ve heard nothing but rave reviews about this little bakery in the lower pacific heights area of San Francisco. Pastry Chef Belinda Leong is creating masterful art with her highly coveted sweet treats. I’m dying to try her famous kouign-amann {pronounced “queen amon”}, as well as the macaroons, tarts, brioche . . . I mean, where do I even begin? Remind me to take my “gluten-ease” pill before I go.

{Photos via DailyCandy | No3}

No.3

Jenny Chung is to retail what Thomas Keller is to restaurants. The girl has some major retail cred with ACRE/SF and Acrimony, and now she’s added No.3 to the mix. The shop specializes in custom and unique jewelry, including wedding pieces. Everything from stunning black diamond rings to skull studs, plated collar necklaces and lots of rose gold {my fave}, this shop is the antithesis of the typical ring shopping experience. I can’t wait to stop in and check out not only the jewels but the shop itself. Word on the street is that the decor is super eclectic and fun. The whole place sounds right up my alley!

{Photos via Kabuki Springs | joie de vivre}

Kabuki Springs

I’m almost embarrassed to admit this. But I’ve never been to Kabuki {and I lived in the Bay for 8+ years}. Oopsy! Time to fix that pronto.
Located in Japantown, this spa is modeled after the traditional communal bath houses in Japan. You can literally spend the entire day at the communal bath for $25. There are hot and cold pools, steam room and sauna to keep you busy and of course massages, acupuncture and assorted beauty treatments if that strikes your fancy. My friends all love this spot, I think it’s time I finally take the plunge {pun intended}.

{Photos via AmericasCup.com}

America’s Cup 2013

I love being near the water. There’s something so calm and serene about watching the ocean do its thing. Yet no matter how much I love the beach and the ocean, I’m not much of a boat girl. Truth be told, being on boats makes me sea sick in a big way. That must be why I’ve always been kind of fascinated by people who love to sail. So, what perfect timing that the America’s Cup is coming to San Francisco’s Pier 27/29 this summer – starting July 4th! Not only can you watch the races and see some of the finest boats in the world, but there’s even a concert series (The Lumineers, Avett Brothers, Jason Mraz and many others) – and it goes all the way through September. Count me in!

Since I’m headed to San Francisco this weekend, I’d love to know, what’s on your radar there? Leave me a note below!

xo

The Top 5 things on my radar this week!

Portland, Oregon Edition.

{Photos via Oregonlive.com | Eater PDX.com | The Fledglings Gourmet}

Tasty n Alder

A follow-up to John Gorham’s uber popular Tasty n Sons, this downtown Portland hot spot will be my first food related stop next time I’m in town. Period. With brunch items like Korean fried chicken, Bim Bop bacon & eggs and a sinful sounding chocolate potato doughnut with creme anglaise? I mean. Come on. And that’s just brunch! Dinner looks equally off the hook. I can’t wait to try it all!
Sidenote: Gorham’s new book Toro Bravo is being released on October 15th and is tops on my holiday wish list.

{Photos via Callooh Callay | Official Mfg. Co. | Frances May on Twitter}

Frances May

This boutique has my name written all over it. From their simple website + branding to carefully curated selection of designers {think A.P.C., Mara Hoffman, Steven Alan, Dieppa Restrepo} to the fact that it’s run by a grandmother + granddaughter duo {how sweet is that?!} – it all adds up to a true dream shop. Even Lucky Magazine gave it their stamp of PDX approval. And on top of all that, there’s zero sales tax! Ummm, for real? Done and done.

{Photos via PDX Pop Now! | Oregon Music News | Portland Monthly Magazine}

PDX Pop Now!

A free, all-ages celebration dedicated to expanding participation in Portland’s music scene. How awesome is that? PDX Pop Now! has been around since 1998. It started out as an online listserv that organically morphed into a festival. It is put on by an all volunteer crew, who are committed to celebrating and promoting Portland’s music community. Shouldn’t all cities have something like this? I think so. This year’s summer festival is July 19th thru 21st, so if you’re in the area, stop on by for some auditory inspiration!

{Photos via Portland Monthly Magazine | Plastics Today | Frank D. Joe for The Oregonian}

Remedy Wine Bar

Remedy, a neighborhood wine bar is set to open this Friday June 21st in the North Park Blocks area of Portland. Their focus is international small brand wines and family-run wineries. With a super laid back vibe and expert wine selections {combined with a simple menu of local + seasonal dishes}, this is a wine lovers dream spot. I love that they are focusing on small labels that aren’t on your radar necessarily. It means you will likely discover something affordably amazing every time you go. Remedy, here I come!

{Photos via CJ Castillo | Sam Bowman via Chicago Weekly | Artwork by Stephen T. Leflar}

Powell’s City of Books

To say this is a book lovers paradise is a bit of an understatement. I’ve walked by Powell’s flagship, which spans a city block, more than once. It’s sheer mammoth-ness left me feeling a smidge intimidated to even go inside. I mean, there’s even a map to help you navigate! But next time, I will brave the aisles and probably end up spending the better part of a day inside their four walls. This literary wonderland has been a PDX staple since 1971 and has grown to include four full-service bookstores, two specialty stores and their famous online store. If Reading Rainbow was still around today, I’d want LeVar Burton to shoot an episode here. Just sayin’.

What are you wanting to hit up in Portland right now? Leave a note below and let me know what’s on your radar!

xo

The Top 5 things on my radar this week!

Chicago Edition.

Second City

This place needs no introduction. The Second City is a legendary training ground for up and coming actors and comedians. Their history is long and impressive.
Think: Alan Arkin, John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Gilda Radner, Martin Short, Catherine O’Hara, John Candy and Eugene Levy – just to name a few.
The performances are top-notch. The training is unlike any other.
And I would LOVE to catch a performance, in their hometown location!

Caffè Oliva

A beach? In Chicago? This newly opened hot spot at Ohio Street beach is definitely on my radar.
With a Mediterranean inspired menu, this idyllic little spot is the perfect place to grab a bite + a drink, lounge in one of the private cabanas with your friends and take in the beauty of the surroundings. Plus I hear it’s a great spot to watch the 55th annual Chicago Air and Water Show!

The Midwest Independent Film Festival

With on-going programming, this film festival looks like a great spot to check out the latest and greatest indie filmmakers {from the midwest of course}. The first Tuesday of every month they showcase a new film and usually have a fun Q+A with the filmmakers and cast afterwards. I love that the festival is ongoing and that it highlights it’s own indie filmmakers who are out there making their dreams happen. So very cool.

Broadway Antique Market

If Nate Berkus says this place is a goldmine, that’s all I need to hear. Unlike a lot of other antique markets and fairs, this spot is open to the public 7-days a week. That leaves plenty of time to rummage through their antique furniture, clothing and knick knacks. And hopefully score some great loot!

{Photo by Andrea Bauer}

Rickshaw Republic

This restaurant has my name written all over it. I’m a sucker for places that serve authentic, street-food from Asia. And so there’s no doubt that this family-owned Indonesian hot spot is a must try! The whole street food thing has become somewhat of a trend in the U.S. over the last few years. There are a ton of places in L.A. and San Francisco that I’ve tried. Some have succeeded wildly and others are a disgrace {and usually owned/operated by someone who doesn’t understand the culture}. I love that this was created by an Indonesian family, who is living out their dream of owning their own restaurant – done their way.
They say their food is, “authentic, unpretentious and delicious.”
I say, THANK YOU!

What are you loving in Chi-town right now? Leave a note below and let me know what’s on your radar!

xo

The Top 5 things on my radar this week!

Seattle Edition.

{Photo via Stumptown Coffee Roasters}

Stumptown Coffee Roasters

With my well known obsession of chai latte’s, it’s unacceptable of me not to try this city’s best coffee shops in search of killer chai. I mean, if Seattle is known for it’s coffee, surely someone there is known for some badass chai. I tried Stumptown while I was in Portland. And even though I know the Seattle location is likely similar, I will be paying their Seattle digs a visit when I get there. Just in case. Chalk it up to “chai research”.

{Photo via The Edgewater Hotel}

The Edgwater Hotel

You don’t get much more “waterfront” than The Edgewater. Resting atop Pier 67 on Seattle’s picturesque Elliott Bay, this four story beauty has an illustrious history. It was originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair and has seen it’s fair share or rock ‘n roll royalty over the years (think The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, REM and many others). And apparently, you can cast a line and try your hand at fishing, right out of their windows! Is this true? It goes without saying, this place has my name all over it.

{Photo via The Calf & Kid}

The Calf & Kid

Cheese. First class customer service. Artisnal locally sourced prodcut, from the Pacific Northwest. Located in the gorgeous Melrose Market in Capitol Hill (which is filled with amazing edible treats). Anthony Bourdain is a fan. There’s really nothing more to say. I am going.

{Photo via The Hansel Blog}

The Underground Tour

Ok. I’m gonna come clean here. I’m not a huge fan of creepy stuff, ghosts, enclosed spaces, extreme heights or big crowds. The idea of tooling around in someone’s former home, in the bowels of a city that was nearly destroyed by a massive fire . . . less than thrilling. Yet, I’m oddly intrigued and fascinated by the Seattle Underground Tour. Imagine: a leisurely stroll beneath Seattle’s streets. Subterranean passages, preserved saloon’s circa the 1800′s, a forgotten town that is now a historic landmark. So creepy, yet so cool.

{Photo via Canlis}

Canlis

One of the few jacket-required, fancy-schmancy restaurants in a predominately dressed down kinda city. So of course, I want to try it! Canlis has been serving up elegant eats for more than 60 years. 60 YEARS!? In the culinary world, that feels like something of an anomaly. They describe their style of cooking as “Comfort Geek” (’cause there’s nothing more chic than a geek, right?). What is Comfort Geek? According to Canlis, it’s easy-to-like, delicious food prepared and presented in contemporary ways. They utilize modern techniques without alienating diners (i.e. they’re judicious with their use of foams and liquid nitrogen). I can’t wait to dig in!

What are your go-to hot spots in Seattle? Leave a comment below and let me know what’s on your radar!

xo

The Top 5 things on my radar this week!

NorCal Wine Country Edition.

{Photo via Remodelista}

Hydeaway House in Sonoma

I posted this in Miscellany a few weeks back, but it’s so beautiful that I had to post again. I simply MUST stay here during my next Sonoma visit. It’s a prefab dream come true. A modern take on a wine country retreat {which you can rent for short term stays}. I’m such a fan of the clean, modern yet rustic design. And the indoor/outdoor style living. The massive windows. The spaciousness. It’s my idea of a dream house!

{Photo via Shed}

Shed

A modern day culinary emporium in the heart of wine country. This couldn’t be a better idea. The building itself is gorgeous, a whopping 10,000 square feet of space made of recycled steel panels, with huge windows and garage doors that create a stunning indoor/outdoor effect for shoppers. It’s genius and I can’t wait to visit!

{Photo via Bardessono}

Bardessono

Technically I’ve already been to this luxurious hotel in the heart of wine country. I visited when I was producing events and weddings in the Bay Area and again when they launched their Shop, which my good friend helped bring together. But I haven’t yet stayed in their rooms. Or visited their spa. And it’s long overdue. Bardessono is one of only three LEED Platinum certified hotels in the U.S. Meaning, they’re extremely eco-friendly and employ environmentally sound practices across not only their building materials but in their business practices as well. It’s something I deeply admire, hence my excitement to go stay and experience their brand of wine country elegance in person.

{Photo via Kadist}

Ben Kinmont Bookseller

It seems fitting that a store specializing in super-duper antique books, on all things gastronomy, would relocate to one of the richest culinary regions in the United States. I recently heard about this famed NYC bookshop, which is now located in Sebastopol (near wine countries best) and have been thinking about visiting ever since. Though it’s by appointment only, I still dream of dropping in and perusing the shelves of 15th and 16th century books on food, wine, perfume and all things related to taste. Hope I get to visit this treasure trove soon.

{Photo via Simply Salted}

The Culinary Institute of America

I’ve written about the pride I take in being a well-rounded foodie. And yet, I haven’t taken any proper cooking classes to speak of. Lately I’ve been eyeballing CIA’s classes, and specifically their Boot Camps. How fun would it be to learn some knife skills, learn how to make the perfect bread and become a master of sauces? My dream vacations are always about good food. These classes would just take it to the next level. Sign me up!

Have you been up to NorCal wine country lately? I’d love to hear what’s on YOUR radar!
Do let me know, in the comments below.

xo

The Top 5 things on my radar this week!

Sayulita, Mexico Edition.

{Photo via Flow Hood River}

Haramara Resort

My friend recommended this spot to me, the last time I was visiting Sayulita. Sadly we didn’t get a chance to stop by, but I’m hoping we can go check it out in June while we’re there. Famed yoga teacher Rodney Yee calls Haramara, “a sanctuary for the soul”. Between the outdoor yoga, fresh food, pristine beaches and lush tropical landscape . . . I’d say Rodney might be spot on.

{Source: Luster}

Pacha Mama

I spent a teensy bit of time {ok, maybe a little bit more than that}, at this chic little store that is owned by the famous Mignot Sisters. Their family story is the stuff of movies – think being raised on a wooden boat all over the world, many lovers and children, traveling around to the best surf towns in the world. Bohemian living at its’ finest. They’re famous for their Tahitian pearl necklaces. I bought one the last time I was in town – but this time I want to check out their gorgeous handmade wraps and dresses.

{Source: childwithavision.com}

Choco Banana

Lately I’ve been craving bananas. But I’m admittedly not a huge fan of them. I think it’s the combo of sweetness + texture that just throws me off. However. A chocolate covered banana dipped in sprinkles? Yes please! This little Sayulita dining spot is legendary, not just for their bananas. It’s for sure a must try on my visit.

{Source: Sayulitalife.com}

Amor Ocean and Jungle Spa

Care for a massage? You don’t have to ask me twice. I’m such a fan of getting body work. But doing it overlooking lush flowers and greenery? That’s just over the top. This spot has rave reviews and looks like a little slice of tropical heaven. Can’t wait to get my butt on that massage table, asap!

{Source: Can Go Mexico}

Petit Hotel Hafa

Looking for a super chic, laid-back hotel to rest your sun drenched body while in Sayulita? This family owned hotel is your spot. I will be stopping by to check out their fabulous looking digs while I’m in town next. Too bad we already have our house booked or I’d be here in a heartbeat. So gorgeous!
Psst ~ ’tis owned and operated by the family who runs Pacha Mama. So you KNOW it’s gonna be all kinds of fabulous.

Have you made the trek to beautiful Sayulita? I’d love to know what’s on your radar there!
Let me know what’s up in the comments!

xo

The Top 5 things on my radar this week!

St. Louis Edition.

{Source: National Poster Retrospecticus}

The National Poster Retrospecticus

I love this! A showcase of some of the best printmakers who go the extra mile in creating beautiful, creative posters and fliers. I’ve always been a lover of well designed posters ever since my high school days. Well, I guess NKOTB posters don’t count, but we’ll just bypass that blip on my otherwise curated radar. *wink*

{Source: The Baseball Travelers}

Cardinals Baseball

Baseball season is beginning. I haven’t been to a game at Busch Stadium in years. 7 years to be exact. There’s something about Cardinals baseball. The beer. The hotdogs. The familiarity of red and white. And Fred Bird. If you’ve never experienced STL baseball, it’s a must.

{Source: Somewhere in St. Louis}

The CWEA House Tour

I lived way out in the burbs growing up in St. Louis. And rarely made it downtown. The Central West End was always a favorite spot whenever we did head down. The old brick historic homes are majorly lust-worthy. Today many of them have been bought and restored. When I’m back I always wish I could just go and check them out. And now, I can!

{Source: Tumblr}

The City Museum

This place has been on my radar for over 4 years now. Every single time I’m back home I think about going and then time gets away from me. It looks way too fun. A wild and crazy outdoor installation / urban jungle gym? My inner kiddo says, “Yes please!”.

{Source: St. Louis Magazine}

3rd Annual Food Wine Design

Culinary Week in Missouri almost sounds like an oxymoron. However, I’d really like to check out this event. I know that the culinary scene has really picked up in recent years and I’m interested to meet some local chefs and mixologists and see + taste for myself.

What’s on your radar STL friends?
Anything I should check out next time I’m in town?
Let me know what’s up in the comments below!

xo

The Top 5 things on my radar this week!

Salt Lake City Edition.

{Source: The Copper Onion}

The Copper Onion

Voted Best Restaurant by Salt Lake City Magazine this year, The Copper Onion is without a doubt on my must-eat list. The CIA trained chef and owner, Ryan Lowder, is creating some of the freshest and inspired new American cuisine in the city. The guy’s cooked at 3-Star Michelin restaurants. Let’s hope he knows what’s up!

Salt Lake City Farmers Market – Downtown

I love a good farmers market. I find there’s no better way to get to know a town, than to stroll the local farmers market meeting locals and sampling fresh produce. It may still be chilly in Salt Lake, but I love that people still brave the cold once a month, during the winter, for the Downtown Winter Market. Sadly, the next one isn’t until April 13th, but for whoever will be in the area then, please check it out on my behalf!

Wiseguys Comedy Club

I’m headed to SLC to see family, specifically my ailing grandmother. It won’t be an easy trip and my heart will be heavy. So a trip to Wiseguys Comedy might just be what I need. Nothing like some belly laughs to keep things light and keep me and my family laughing! Plus, this weekend Michael Yo is performing. He describes himself as a “Half-Black Brother with a Korean Mother”. Yeah. Must get tickets!

{Source: eatingsaltlake.blogspot.com}

Chow Food Truck

I love a good food truck. So I’m excited to see that SLC has gotten hip to the food truck scene. I’m most excited to try Chow. It’s created + run by some true restaurant pro’s – let’s hope they know their Asian food, because I’ve got a hankering for some coconut-lemongrass chicken tacos. Yummm!

{Source: Trip Advisor}

Washington School House Hotel

Though not technically in Salt Lake, I had to include Washington School House Hotel. I know I wrote about this spot before in Miscellany for your Weekend. But it’s so beautiful, that it’s for sure on my radar as I head off to SLC this weekend.
Not sure if I’ll need to stay there, but I most definitely hope to swing up to Park City to check this place out. The exterior is uber charming and the interiors, luxurious and comfy. My kinda place!

What’s on your Salt Lake City radar?
Anything I should check out this weekend while I’m there?
Let me know in the comments below!

xo

The Top 5 things on my radar this week!

San Francisco Edition.

{Source: The Architect’s Newspaper Blog}

Aether

I’m not even a woodsy, outdoorsy kinda girl {my idea of “roughing it” is a Motel 6}, but Aether’s San Francisco outpost, filled with plenty of quality wears for the outdoor enthusiast, is definitely on my must-see list. Mostly for the obvious reason. It’s made of three shipping containers! Peep the cool video below . . .

{Source: The Bold Italic}

Ramen Shop

Ok. I’m cheating.
This one’s in Oakland, but I just had to include it. It’s Ramen. In my old ‘hood (Oakland).
A worthy reason to pull me across the bridge if there ever was one!

{Source: Aesop}

Aesop

Aesop has hit my old stomping grounds on Fillmore Street. This Australian brand is among my top favorite skin + body care lines.
Clean. Luxurious. Perfectly scented. I highly recommend trying out their products. I’ve only seen them in boutiques and major luxury retailers, so I’m super excited to check out their new west coast digs.

{Source: Alt Summit}

Altitude Summit SF

I have such awesome blogger friends. They alert me to new blogs I should check out and most especially events like this one {thank you Rubies & Ribbon}. If I can make it happen, you bet your sweet cheeks, you’ll see me at Alt SF.
UPDATE :: I just saw tickets are already sold out. Sign me up for the waitlist por favor.

What’s on your San Francisco radar?
Anything I should check out this weekend while I’m in the Bay?
Let me know in the comments below!

xo