fête à fête

It's truly a blessing to be living so close to one of the world's best wine regions. There are so many great wineries and things to check out. When you're all tired from the Bacchanalial pleasures, you can relax and recharge your energy at a nearby luxury resort.

Of all the resorts I'd pick, Meadowood in St. Helena would be a superb choice. Located near the north end of the Silverado Trail, the elegant estate is tucked away in a secluded valley that stretches across 250 acres of trees, lush hills, lawns, and hiking trails.

The estate seems like a paradise that's far away from reality. Your mind will stop obsessing about the fifty emails that you need to deal with, and the concept of relaxation is at the forefront of your mind. If you're a nature lover, you'd be thrilled to see so many different types of trees on the property. You can spot tons of Redwoods, Oaks, Big Leaf Maples, Douglas Firs, California Buckeyes, Madrones and Bay Laurels.

There are 85 cottages, suites and lodges within the resort. All of them are tucked into the hillside, so you get the utmost privacy. We stayed in one of the spacious Treeline Cottages - the wood-burning fireplace was so warm that we didn't need to turn up the heat. There are two TVs so you can literally laze about all day if you really wanted to. Since it was raining, that's what we did!

Naturally, the property has a two-starred Michelin restaurant. Under the leadership of Chef Christopher Kostow, The Restaurant at Meadowood is a culinary destination for those seeking a world-class dining option.

The Molten Parmesan Tortellini was beyond delicious. We both picked the extremely tender Giant Humboldt Squid entree; the cheese tasting was also one of the best we've seen. For dessert, we were wowed by the rich White Chocolate and Foie Gras Ganache and the interesting combination of Beets, Rose, and Cocoa. As if that wasn't enough, soft snickerdoodle financiers were set upon the table as a finishing touch.

Meadowood is not just all about relaxing - there's a big emphasis on health and wellness. Tennis courts, an executive golf course, croquet lawns, and swimming pools all surround the property. If you need pointers, a resident professional for tennis, croquet, and golf can help you improve your game. If that's not enough, they even have aerobics, pilates, and yoga classes, along with an on-site personal trainer.

I also got to visit their spa and tried their signature Meadowood Harvest Wrap. A detoxing dry brushing started the treatment, followed by a tea tree exfoliation. A hydrating masque is then applied and you get a sleep-inducing scalp massage as you're wrapped in warm towels. To finish the buffing, a Jurlique anti-oxidant lotion is smoothed over the entire body. With this body wrap, you'll end up with soft-as-butter skin.

There are lots of events going on at Meadowood. From their upcoming Valentine's Day dinner to their summer charity wine auction, this Napa Valley destination is not to be missed. If I had my way, I'd love to get hitched at this gorgeous locale.

www.meadowood.com

For editorial consideration, a press visit was provided for this review.

Tagged as: food, Lifestyle, Luxury, restaurant, spa, travel, wine country

Posted by Tami Yu at 9:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

While Spring and Summer are the best seasons to enjoy Northern California's wine country, I think Winter is a great time to take advantage of the region without all the tourists flocking to the area. It's considered to be a low season so hotel packages are more appealing and a bit easier on the wallet.

To start your new year off to a bright and healthy start, Hotel Healdsburg has an extremely relaxing Winter Cleansing Spa Package to rejuvenate your body and soul. The road to bliss starts with a gentle dry brushing to increase the body's circulation. A detoxifying seaweed body wrap is then applied.

To enhance the purification process you get a nice soak in the spa tub. Using detoxifying massage oils, a full body massage follows (so relaxing I almost fell asleep at this point). To end things on a beautiful note, a custom Eminence Organics facial will revive fatigued skin. The facial also includes a refining glycolic acid or a gentle enzyme peel to ensure a radiant visage.

The hotel itself has a light modern feel without being cold. The entire staff is very warm and accommodating, so you're in great hands. Upon entering our room we were greeted with a cheese plate and chilled white wine. The bathtub is really deep so you can also take a nice long soak while enjoying a glass of wine.

The adjoining restaurant, Charlie Palmer's Dry Creek Kitchen, is just as inviting. We started off with a citrusy Fennel Crusted Flash Seared Hamachi appetizer and the Dungeness Crab Tempura. The Crispy Veal Sweetbreads + Chicken Confit Agnolotti was also delicious. The killer entree for the evening, however, was the Crispy Skin Local Black Cod with a lemongrass and ginger consomme. The flesh was so milky and soft. If I could buy bottles of the consomme I'd use it on all my cooking.

The desserts were also nothing short of amazing. We had the famous Chocolate + Peanut Butter Bar and the Valrhona Chocolate Budino with Guiness Ice Cream (yes, beer-flavored ice cream).

Sommelier Drew Munro is really knowledgeable about the local wineries and he did a great wine pairing for our dinner. We're now fans of the Lime Stone 2008 Sauvignon Blanc and the Williamson 2007 Chardonnay.

If you can't make it to Hotel Healdsburg this month, not to worry. They have a great Valentine's Day weekend package that includes a two nights in a Deluxe King room, spa treatments for two, and a decadent six-course dinner. Dry Creek Kitchen also has an exciting food celebrity-studded Pigs & Pinot culinary weekend coming up in late March. For more info, go to www.hotelhealdsburg.com.

For editorial consideration, a press visit was provided for this review.

Tagged as: food, gourmet, hotel, Lifestyle, Luxury, spa, travel, wine, wine country

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Things might still be tight with the economy, but that doesn't mean you can't have some well-deserved relaxation and fun. If you're craving for a little wine country getaway, The Lodge at Sonoma is a great idea to sneak in a weekend break and do some wine tasting. The wineries are sending out their siren call, so why the heck not?

The hotel is a gorgeous-looking property located close to downtown Sonoma. Their gardens are lush and tranquil, and the pool is quite beautiful and inviting. Most importantly, it's darn affordable, especially during low season.

As a Renaissance resort it has a lot of amenities. There's plenty to do to keep yourself busy - shopping areas, biking trails, and golf courses are close by. Most importantly, there's tons of wineries to visit.

The cottage rooms are so spacious that you can relax inside it for hours if you wanted to. The bathtub has a wall with built-in wooden shutters, so you can open them up and actually watch TV as you soak in a bubble bath. Don't forget to sip on a glass of wine while you're at it. Afterward, if you've had a bit too much to drink and eat, you can nap it off on the comfy leather sofa, conveniently located near the warm fireplace.

The hotel's restaurant, the Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar, has a seriously fantastic menu. Chef de Cuisine Janine Falvo has an inimitable talent with her food - every dish is so flavorful that your taste buds are left singing for hours afterward.

We started with the seared foie gras and the Taco Three Bites, and proceeded to dive into the duck confit. I especially loved the braised lamb and feta orzotto - who knew lamb and feta could be so heavenly together? The rich maitake mushroom mac & cheese will ruin your diet, but that's OK - it's totally worth it. For a sweet ending, we had the Coffee Pot de Creme & Carneros Coffee Cake and the Fall Pie Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream.

Don't forget to schedule a treatment at the Raindance Spa. I tried the invigorating Grape Seed Body Polish, which is perfect for sloughing off dry winter skin. The beautiful lounge has plenty of plush divans so you can relax and chat with your girlfriends.

For the ultimate romantic treat with your sweetheart, the signature Raindance Suite lets you experience a special couple's spa treatment. The luxurious suite is complete with a private fireplace, monsoon shower, and a couple's hydrotherapy tub.

In honor of Valentine's Day, lovebirds can also take advantage of The “Buena Vista Carneros Valentine’s Package” for the entire month of February. It includes accommodations for two nights, spa treatments for two, a three-course dinner paired with wines at Buena Vista Carneros, and a choice of a guided bike or Segway tour.

www.thelodgeatsonoma.com

For editorial consideration, a press visit was provided for this review.

Tagged as: hotel, restaurant, Sonoma, spa, travel, wine country

Posted by Tami Yu at 9:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

I thought I've seen it all with the latest skin care trends, but the gorgeous SenSpa had something truly unique to offer in terms of skin exfoliation and renewal. I recently tried the amazing Super Hydrating Facial, one of the most popular services at SenSpa. I didn't really know what the hype was all about, but I can now attest to amazing results from this treatment.

The facial features a patented HydraFacial machine that performs a really efficient surface exfoliation. The HydraPeel tip planes off the dead skin cells, revealing brighter and softer "baby" cells (don't worry, it won't hurt at all). The tip also flushes your skin with a special blend of antioxidant-infused fruit acids. A custom mask and additional protective serums are then applied, ensuring all pigmentation and anti-aging issues are addressed.

I haven't seen this type of exfoliating machine anywhere else, so I think they're the only ones that have this special treatment in the Bay Area. I couldn't believe how butter soft my skin is. This is as close to baby skin as I'm going to get!

This day spa is really a zen oasis sitting on the edge of the Presidio. They really emphasize wellness and holistic treatments to heal your body and soul. They even have a wellness coach to help you address your personal needs. How cool is that?

There is a special skin care package going on right now at SenSpa. The first 50 folks to book the new Polarity Peel will receive a free full-size bottle of the new SkinCeuticals Retexturizing Activator ($70 value). What a deal.

Another promotion, called the SenSpa Road to Recovery, is another sweet deal to think about. From now through September 30, when you enjoy 4 treatments (valued at a minimum of $110 each), you'll receive a SenSpa gift card worth $115. You don't need to pay for all 4 treatments up front - just pay as you go.

They're also hosting a Stella & Dot trunk show on Tuesday, September 29th from 6:30-8:30pm. Try on gorgeous costume jewelry and enjoy light refreshments in the spa’s serene Presidio setting. BONUS: book any SenSpa treatment while at the event and you’re automatically entered into a drawing for Stella & Dot gift certificates!

SenSpa
1161 Gorgas Avenue
San Francisco, CA
415.441.1777

www.senspa.com

Tagged as: beauty, Lifestyle, Luxury, San Francisco, skin care, special events, travel

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

When thinking about weekend trips in Wine Country, most folks think of Napa or Sonoma. If you've already been to those areas, Paso Robles might be a great new option. This 'undiscovered' wine region boasts more than 200 wineries, so you'll be very busy tasting as many wines as you can. Hearst Castle is also close by, if you want to stretch out your stay.

If you do go there, the downtown area is a good home base. The lovely Hotel Cheval is the perfect spot for some well-deserved R&R. This intimate boutique hotel is a mini oasis that's just off the historic downtown area. Their airy and spacious rooms are well-appointed; I loved the high vaulted ceilings and cozy window seating area. Each of these stylish rooms also feature luxurious California King beds (so so comfy), soft down comforters, 400-thread count sheets, and flat-screen televisions.

The hotel also provides in-room spa treatments (massages, body scrubs, reflexology and facials). All you have to do is throw on a robe, sit back and enjoy the pampering treatment. There's no need to walk to any spa treatment room outside. I got the Cheval Signature Massage and it was so relaxing I caught myself drifting off to dreamland.

The concierge was really accommodating. We arrived right before the huge dinner rush and she was able to score us last-minute reservations at the totally awesome Artisan Restaurant. And, to transport you to your dinner in grand style, Chester the adorable Red Belgian Draft horse will carry you off on a fun carriage ride to and from the restaurant.

There's a few great packages currently available for your getaway. If you're a wine lover, there's a personalized Wine Tasting package that includes a detailed wine tour led by a certified Sommelier. A private picnic lunch will also be served at one of the wineries.

For a romantic rendezvous, The Couples/Elopement package includes a complimentary bottle of champagne for you to toast your beloved. Afterwards, both of you can enjoy a sensual Candlelit Couples Massage together in the privacy of your own room. If you do decide to get hitched, their gorgeous outdoor courtyard can hold up to 50 guests.

For more info and to book your package, go to www.hotelcheval.com.

Tagged as: hotel, Lifestyle, Luxury, travel, vacation, wine country

Posted by Tami Yu at 9:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

I couldn't ask for a lovelier holiday weekend. I went to the 30th Annual Showcase: Taste of Sonoma (part of Sonoma Wine Country Weekend) in Healdsburg, and the drive to MacMurray Ranch was just plain gorgeous.

With over 160 wineries offering the best regional wines, this is one of the largest epicurean events in Northern CA. You can also spend hours tasting local food from 60 restaurants. Let's just say your belly will be quite full by the time it's over.

Pulled Duck & Pork Belly Sandwich from Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar

If you had too much to eat and drink, there was plenty of chef action at the Gourmet Kitchen demos. Chef Douglas Keane of Cyrus (looove that place) was one of the judges at a Steel Chef Competition.

Being a total sweet tooth, I had to try these delish Mini Chocolate S'mores Tarts from El Dorado Kitchen. To really seal the deal, these were paired with Valrhona Chocolate Cookies topped with sea salt and white chocolate chips. Needless to say, I went home a happy camper.

Tagged as: food, gourmet, Lifestyle, special events, travel, wine, wine country, wine tasting

Posted by Tami Yu at 1:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

With George Morrone at the helm, Sutro's at the Cliff House is now a worthy destination for both natives and tourists. With grand sweeping views of the ocean, you can dine in style with Morrone's well-executed menu. Of course, having a background from Aqua and Fifth Floor certainly helped boost expectations.

Duo of Corn Soup

We started with the Duo of Corn Soup, which was a natural hit. The piquillo pepper corn relish added a nice zippy kick to the satisfying and refreshingly sweet starter, setting the stage for more culinary excitement. Another fun app to order, if you haven't yet had it elsewhere, is the Ahi Tuna Tartare. It's Morrone's original famous recipe, and it's prepared tableside as you look on with anticipation. Unlike others, this version lets the fish shine, and it's not overwhelmed by the sesame oil.

For the main course, you have to get the Seared Day Boat Scallops. Paired with a “classic scampi sauce” and poached laughing bird shrimp, we were totally blown away by how perfect the scallops were. It's perfectly done, tender and succulent. We also liked the moist Garlic and Ginger Pork Tenderloin, but the scallops stole the show.

Jumbo Asparagus Salad

The portions are fairly sizeable, so we only had room to split a dessert. The Frozen Lemon Souffle with balsamic and blueberries is a nice touch for an otherwise perfect meal. I heard the Butterscotch Pot de Creme is supposed to be great, so I need to go back and try it!

www.cliffhouse.com

Tagged as: chef, dining, dinner, food, gourmet, Lifestyle, restaurant, San Francisco, travel

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

When I was in Paris last month I popped by the chic Hotel des Academies et des Arts in the 6th arrondissment to try their afternoon tea at Chez Charlotte. Tucked away from the busy Montparnasse/Jardin du Luxembourg area, this intimate spot is a cozy way to fill up on delish macarons and catch your breath before heading out for more sightseeing.

Named after owner Charlotte Inchauspé, the gourmet tearoom serves FABULOUS and world-famous Pierre Hermé macarons and fragrant teas from Le Palais des Thés (I actually stood 20+ minutes in line for these macarons at Hermé's Saint-Germain store). This artsy hotel is the only hotel in Paris to serve his macarons.

If you get the chance to stay at this luxury boutique hotel, I totally recommend it. The public areas and rooms are filled with hip and ultra-modern art and decor. There's even a neat wall art you can view from the glass partitioned section of the elevator. Plus, the manager Henri is super cool. He's very helpful in helping you with any questions you might have.

hoteldesacademies.com

Tagged as: drink, food, France, gourmet, Lifestyle, Paris, travel

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBacks (0)

While staying in Paris, we had the most fortunate luck to visit friends living in the gorgeous Île d'Oléron. The TGV is only three hours away, so it was literally a hop and a skip down to beautiful La Rochelle. From there it's about an hour's drive to the island.

At the oyster farm.

The day before, we were keeling over from eating the best langoustines and crevettes ever for lunch (prepared by Anne's loving hands). The seafood ecstasy was extended further into the next day.

Oyster planks covered by algae to keep them insulated during high tide.

That morning we got to go on a special fishing expedition with Papi Guy. We saw lightning flashing across the horizon earlier that morning, but fortunately it cleared up by the time we neared the oyster beds.

Papi Guy looking for oysters.

We had to wait til the tide was low enough to disembark. Then we got down and raked for Palourde clams and cockles while Papi Guy hunted for wild oysters. It was such great fun roaming around the rows of oysters, digging for clams with our fingers.

Our bountiful harvesting of cockles...

At lunch, we got to try the amazing clams and delicately sweet cockles. The wild oysters were so briny it was like tasting the ocean. Papi Guy then shared his precious stash of home made Pineau, the local aperitif made of grape must and Cognac. As we all did drink a substantial amount, I'm quite happy to see the alcohol didn't make anyone too tipsy...otherwise we'd all have to swim home!

Eating lunch and oysters while waiting for the tide to return.

Tagged as: drink, food, France, seafood, travel

Posted by Tami Yu at 4:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Ah, glorious Paris...the most visited city in the world. I haven't been back in eons and my heart warmed so much when the cab dropped us off to the lovely apartment where we had stayed (Merci Amelie et Delphine!!). It was an amazingly inspiring experience. There were hundreds of photos taken but here's a sampling of some of the beautiful memories:

Wandering around Montmartre...I know everyone has seen the Sacre Coeur and other touristy parts but I'm more in love with how light and shadow fall along the walls of the buildings and alleys.

The Metro saved our butts. I wish we had it here! So so so so convenient. Much better than the slow-as-molasses Muni.

Visiting Monet's home and gardens at Giverny. Everything is so gorgeous there. I can spend days upon days and discover new angles to capture these trees and flowers.

Spring blossoms at Giverny:

Tagged as: France, international, travel

Posted by Tami Yu at 10:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Round Pond's hand-harvested olive oils are so rich in flavor. The award-winning family mill offers four fantastic varietals, and each one is unique. The Italian varietal is a robust blend of five Italian varietals (Leccino, Pendolino, Maurino, Frantoio and Coratina). Its bright green notes of green tomatoes, grass, and black pepper makes it ideal for cooking, dipping and salads. Harvested from 100-year-old Spanish trees, the slightly lighter Spanish Varietal is ideal for baking and sautéing.

Buttery and spicy, the popular (sold out each year) and aromatic Blood Orange Olive Oil is made from the sweet juice and rind oils of fresh blood oranges. You can use it in sauces and marinades, but it's so beautiful I just like to dip with it to enjoy the pure flavor. The Meyer Lemon oil is just as nice, blending organic Meyer lemons with the finest Frantoio and Coratina olives. Highly fragrant, it leaves a velvety finish and crisp taste. These are all outstanding oils, but the Meyer Lemon is my fave.

Using estate-grown grapes, their two red-wine vinegars are made from the 200-year-old Orleans technique. I haven't had such robust vinegars in a while, and they match their oils nicely. They're aged ten months in French oak barrels, and bottled in individual lots. The Sangiovese, Nebbiolo & Petit Verdot blend packs a punch, while the nuanced Cabernet & Merlot has a dry, dark fruit finish.

If you're in the area, try to catch their Saturday tasting tours and lunch, then head over to their winery for some more tasting!

www.roundpond.com

Tagged as: artisan, condiments, cooking, cooking techniques, food, food & drink, gourmet, olive oil, travel, vinegar, wine, wine country

Posted by Tami Yu at 6:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I still can't believe that today has come. Welcome, Mr. President Obama! Watch him take his oath of office and deliver his inaugural speech (video below). It's very moving, filling the heart with grace, hope, and perseverance. GObama!

Barack Obama, with his wife Michelle, takes the oath of office as the 44th President of the United States. (Ron Edmonds / AP)

For the fashion divas, Michelle Obama is wearing a golden yellow ensemble by Cuban-born American designer Isabel Toledo.

It's time for us to chose hope over fear.

Full text of his speech: www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/01/20/president-obamas-inaugura_n_159370.html

For other inauguration videos, go here: www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27721638/

Tagged as: Current Affairs, inauguration, Obama, politics, special events, travel, U.S.

Posted by Tami Yu at 9:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Looking for a fancy & cozy weekend in wine country this winter? Michelin heavyweights Farmhouse Inn & Restaurant, and Cyrus Restaurant just launched the Two Night, Three Star package for discriminating gourmet foodies. Guests will enjoy two exquisite gourmet meals and luxe accommodations at Farmhouse Inn.

Recently named one of the “Top 10 Culinary Inns In America” by Bon Appetit, this rustic country retreat is understated and romantic.

The Two Night, Three-Star Package includes:

· Two nights at Farmhouse Inn in a luxury cottage with queen-sized bed, wood-burning fireplace, sauna, jetted tub and two-course breakfast.

· Five-course dinner for two at Farmhouse Restaurant featuring their signature seasonal specialties prepared by Chef Steve Litke (w/ optional add-on wine pairing by Master Sommelier Geoff Kruth).

· Five-course tasting menu for two at Cyrus Restaurant (w/ optional add-on wine pairing selected by Cyrus Sommelier Jim Rollston).

* $750 per couple; beverages, taxes and gratuities not included. Package available January 18 – February 28. Reservations: 800-464-6642

www.farmhouseinn.com
www.cyrusrestaurant.com

Tagged as: dinner, food & drink, gourmet, Lifestyle, Luxury, restaurant, Sonoma, travel, wine, wine country

Posted by Tami Yu at 7:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

The Kenwood Inn & Spa made me feel like I was living in a Tuscan villa. Well, it's the closest thing in the Bay Area/Wine Country. I was very lucky to have the chance to spend a weekend in this tranquil paradise, and the luxe accommodations are worth every penny.

(Credit:Tom Barwick)

There are plenty of reasons why they've been recently named the top resort in the US by Condé Nast Traveler. Each of the 29 rooms and suites have private entrances, and the secluded 2.5 acres are so beautifully landscaped. Each nook and cranny was abundantly draped in ivy, plants, and flowers. The courtyards, pool, gardens, jacuzzis were gorgeous.

(Credit:Tom Barwick)

I could have stayed inside my suite all day, and that's what I did (It was cold and raining anyway). It was so big I can waltz around the entire room. Mine had a jacuzzi tub, fireplace (a real one!), and the most comfy featherbed on earth. I couldn't seem to get up in the morning from the deep slumber.

(Credit:Tom Barwick)

The gracious staff really went above and beyond, catering to my every need. The private restaurant is only open to guests, where Italian chef Renzo Veronese spoils you with fresh house-made pasta and other delectable entrees. I totally loved my Ravioli di Vitello alla Aurora (roasted veal in tomato cream sauce). The Sogliola alla Dorata (Petrale sole with lemon, white wine, and butter) was also really delicious. It was the best Petrale I've had in recent memory.

Don't forget to book a spa treatment when you visit. The award-winning spa offers luxurious body facials that feature Arcona, the LA-based skin care line used by celebrities (Diane Lane, Katherine Heigl, etc.). I tried the awesome Organic Enzyme facial, and my face looked so much better when I was done. The fruit enzymes totally buffed off the dull visage.

All in all, this is the ultimate romantic getaway. A definite must-go for you and your sweetheart on your next anniversary, honeymoon, or special occasion.

www.kenwoodinn.com

Tagged as: bay area, chef, dinner, food, gourmet, Lifestyle, Luxury, organic ingredients, resort, skin care, Sonoma, spa, travel, wine country

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBacks (0)

Travelers to Northern California won't need to go far for a divine epicurean experience. With the 'Dining with the Stars' program, choose your romantic getaway from not one, but three Michelin two-star restaurants: MICHAEL MINA, Cyrus, and The Restaurant at Meadowood.

In celebration of the prestigious 2009 awards, each includes a seasonal tasting menu to match with a decadent overnight stay. SF diners at MICHAEL MINA will have luxurious accommodations at The Westin St. Francis, while Cyrus offers an intimate setting at the Healdsburg Inn. Caviar and bubbly, anyone?

For those lucky enough to dine at The Restaurant at Meadowood, you'll enjoy a cozy cottage and warm fire. Itineraries are customizable and will also feature special in-room amenities. How fun is that?

Dining with the Stars is available Monday-Thursday, January 15, 2009 through April 15, 2009. Reservations can be made by calling Meadowood Napa Valley at (707) 963-3646 or contacting reservations@meadowood.com.

For more info: www.meadowood.com, www.michaelmina.net, and www.cyrusrestaurant.com.

Tagged as: chef, cooking, dinner, food, food & drink, Luxury, napa, restaurant, San Francisco, travel, wine, wine country

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I'm totally in love with this Tampico Bebop bag from Via Maris. Lightweight and chic, it's the great classic bag for travel. Whether you're heading to the beach resort in the Maldives or going on a whirlwind shopping tour, this roomy and butter-soft bag will take you places.

Made by a notable French family business (since the 1920's!), this is a high quality accessory for a fab price. I'm definitely gonna put this on my wish list...

www.viamarisnyc.com

Tagged as: Accessories, bag, fashion, french, international, leather, patent leather, purse, shopping, Style

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

For all you Francophiles, here's a cute little travel book about the City of Light. Famed food blogger (Chocolate & Zucchini) Clotilde Dusoulier's new book, Clotilde's Edible Adventures in Paris, is a fun reference guide too all things decadent and delicious in Paris. Follow the native foodie as she picks her favorite wine shops, bakeries, restaurants, and markets in each arrondissement. Easy to follow, Clotilde's infectious warmth shows on each page.

fête à fête recently caught up with Clotilde about her new book:

If you had all the time in the world, what would be the ultimate edible adventure for you?

CD: I am inordinately curious about all things Japanese, and for many years now, I have been wanting to go to Japan and taste its cuisine in context. It looks like I may finally have a chance to go this year, and I am beside myself with excitement.

What was the process in determining the top places for your book? Did you have a systemic rating system, or was it purely based on personal preferences?

CD: I started with a list of personal favorites, then worked my way through long lists of places -- old and new -- I'd heard good things about. I paid those restaurants and food shops a visit, sampled their offerings, and ultimately decided whether I liked them enough to include them. I didn't have a rating system, but rather trusted my instinct, asking myself this simple question: would I send a friend there?

Any particular dish you've been meaning to try, or perfect on its technique?

CD: Baba au rhum (a sponge-like yeast cake doused with rum) is all the rage in Paris these days, and I've been meaning to try and make my own -- I've already purchased the aged rum, and now I'm just waiting for the opportunity to serve this grownup dessert to friends.

So there you have it! Visit www.chocolateandzucchini.com/edibleadventures

Bon Appétit!

Tami

Tagged as: book, culinary, food & drink, France, international, interview, Paris, Shopping, travel, Trends

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (1)

Here's your last chance to win a trip for two to Mexico! Play the Meet Me in Mexico contest - head on over to Glam.com and guess the destination in the photo for your chance to win!

The correct answer will enter you in a pool, and a winner will be chosen at random. So what are you waiting for? Good luck!!



-Tami

Tagged as: contest, international, special events, travel, vacation

Posted by Tami Yu at 10:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Want to win a trip for two to Mexico? We know you do! Play the Meet Me in Mexico contest - head on over to Glam.com and guess the destination in the photo for your chance to win! Then return next week where a new photo will be posted for an additional chance to win.

Each correct answer from both weeks will enter you in a pool, and a winner will be chosen at random at the end of the contest. So what are you waiting for? Good luck!!



-Tami

Tagged as: contest, international, travel, vacation

Posted by Tami Yu at 7:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Want to win a trip for two to Mexico? Play the Meet Me in Mexico contest - head on over to Glam.com and guess the destination in the photo for your chance to win! Then return each week where a new photo will be posted for additional chances to win.

Each correct answer from every week will enter you in a pool, and a winner will be chosen at random at the end of the contest. So what are you waiting for? Good luck!!



-Tami

Tagged as: contest, holiday, travel, vacation

Posted by Tami Yu at 9:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Want to win a trip for two to Mexico? Of course you do! Play the Meet Me in Mexico contest - head on over to Glam.com and guess the destination in the photo for your chance to win! Then return each week where a new photo will be posted for additional chances to win.

Each correct answer from every week will enter you in a pool, and a winner will be chosen at random at the end of the contest. The contest starts right now, so what are you waiting for? Good luck!!



-Tami

Tagged as: contest, holiday, travel, vacation

Posted by Tami Yu at 12:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)