South Beach Wine & Food Fest, 2013

For those of you who have been around for a while, you know that every February, my friend, Emily, and I shed our winter-weather gear and head to Miami for the South Beach Wine & Food Festival.  It's a weekend that I look forward to all year long.  Why?  Because, aside from the obvious (my passion for food and wine), there's just something about Miami Beach that works for me.  Clicks.  Does it.  I often say that it is the "perfect beach city," as the sea water is warm and the prettiest hue of turquoise blue - there's a strong Latin culture and flair - an abundance of fabulous shopping - world-class night life and dining - and some of the best looking people on the planet.  Oh, and temperatures in February range anywhere from 75 to 85 degrees (Fahrenheit). 

Where does the time go?  Seriously, I'm having some issues coming to grips with the fact that my 3-day food and sun-soaked weekend has passed.  However, I'm already looking in to hotel reservations for 2014!  The dates for next year's Festival, by the way, are 2/20-2/23.  So, in the meantime, please enjoy my recap from yet another fabulous visit to Miami.

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Thursday, 2/21

Just call me your personal "travel martyr."  Why?  Because I thought that I was saving a bundle by flying in to Fort Lauderdale instead of Miami.  And, technically, I was.  Until I saw my bill for the 45-minute cab ride to the hotel.  $80, folks!  Pre-tip.

This year, Emily and I decided to stay at the Fountainebleau, which is located next door to Eden Roc, where we stayed last year.  We wanted to try something different and, after having checked out Fountainebleau's hot pool scene last year, decided that we'd be better positioned to meet men.  And famous chefs. 

After checking in, the first thing Emily and I did was head down to the pools/beach.  We did not want to miss a minute of sunshine!

Fountainebleau lobbyFountainebleau's many poolsCheers! Nothing like a poolside frozen margarita to officially kick off a holiday weekend!...and fresh fruit-infused ice water when you need a break from that frozen cocktail.Prior to our 8pm dinner reservation, Emily, Josh, and I headed to the W hotel's outdoor lounge, Grove, to meet my friend, Tammi, for a cocktail.  Oh, how I wish we could have stayed there all night!  Legit, Grove was one of the coolest outdoor cocktail venues I've ever been to.  In the world.  This, fellow travelers, is a Miami *must.*

For dinner, we met up with Yasmin and Mike at Quinn's.  The five of us were seated at a prime outdoor table overlooking famous Ocean Drive. 

Per our adorable Cuban waiter's advice, I whetted my palate with a muddled-watermelon mojito. It was outstanding!The bread basket was absolutely fabulous, namely because of the freshly-baked popover, which was paired with strawberry butter. (I ate three of them over the course of the eve.)I live for stone crab claws, and this piece was the single best claw that I've had, to date!This Caribbean-inspired red snapper entree was listed on Quinn's menu as being one of their house specialties. Josh and I decided to split the dish and, while we agreed that the fish was fresh and well-seasoned, its accompaniments - grilled plantains, squash, black beans - reminded us of "conference food." Lukewarm, gummy, flavorless, and incredibly "1990s."This was the best key lime pie that, I believe, I've ever had. The tart curd/filling was not frozen - the graham-cracker crust was still a bit crunchy - and I loved the raspberry drizzle.After dinner, Emily headed to one of the Festival events, while I retired to our hotel room.

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Friday, 2/22

Because chaise lounges are such a hot commodity, I ran down to the pool before 9am (!!!) to snag two for Emily and me.  The effort!  Then, I grabbed my goggles and went for a dip in the beautiful ocean...

When I got out, I almost stepped on this...

Portuguese "man o' war"Upon my return to the pool area, I noticed a film crew and learned that Telemundo was shooting a chef's demonstration with Richard Sandoval! 

Richard Sandoval for TelemundoAs if a famous chef and a near-jelly fish-bite weren't exciting enough, the lunch I ordered, poolside, was *actually* really delicious.  Who'd have thought?  Grilled mahi-mahi fish tacos came drizzled with cilantro crema and were accompanied by cole slaw and a fantastic salsa.  Bam!

Poolside at the Fountainebleau: Grilled fish tacos, cole slaw, salsa After putting a serious dent in my new beach read, Why Men Love Bitches, I delved in to a little retail therapy and scored a gorgeous pair of Valentino riding boots for 50% off! 

What's a vacation w/o a sassy beach read?"You had me at 50% off." My new Valentino riding boots...Post-shopping, I met Alex and Chef Cesare Casella for a cocktail in the lobby of the hotel.

Me, Cesare Casella, and AlexMy first event of the weekend was the Amstel Light Burger Bash, which kicked off at 7:30pm on the beach at the Ritz-Carlton.    

My official media pass!Me and EmilyEntry to the 'BashFolks waiting on line for burgersChef Laurent Tourondel (right)!Look who else came out! GUY FIERI!Burgers.  Burgers.  And more BURGERS!  I was in hog heaven (or, should I say "beef heaven")...

This was, by far, one of the most delicious nights I've had in recent memory.  My favorite burger of the thirty-four was from Miami's own Burger & Beer Joint.  The "Susie Q" was composed of:  Aged sharp cheddar, smoked applewood bacon, tomato jam and spicy mayo on a brioche bun.  Crispy dill pickles and buttermilk ranch (dressing) accompanied.

My favorite burger: Burger & Beer Joint's "Susie Q"...

Saturday, 2/23

As per usual, I was up early and headed down to the pool to grab chaise lounges.  This morning, however, I had to snag 8 chairs instead of just 2.  Since Emily had befriended 4 new people and invited Yasmin and Mike to join us, I literally had to place a piece of random collateral - sunscreen bottles, water bottle, magazines - on an entire row of chairs.  Once everyone slowly started to arrive, I decided that it was time to crack open the 40oz. can of malt liquor that Emily's friend brought for me in a paper bag.  Remember, dear readers:  I put the "ass" in "class."

Damn right. This is some good stuff, believe it or not!At around 1pm, I headed back to our room to change out of my swimsuit and wander over to my next Festival event:  Whole Foods Grand Tasting Village.  Held beach-side on the sand was a literal "tent village," consisting of cooking demos, book signings, and a massive grand tasting.  While the sights were lovely and impressive, and the talent lineup was fantastic, I found the event, itself, uncomfortably crowded and hot.  I only lasted about 20-minutes, from entry to exit.  :( 

Entry to the Whole Foods Grand Tasting Village

Cooking demoChef Aaron Sanchez's cooking demoInside the preassure cooker/grand tentA bunch of tastings that, sadly, I did not sample because I was so uncomfortable...Something I did get to try, however, was a Mama's Guava Bar.  Guava, if you did not know, if my favorite fruit, and I adored these chewy bars laced with the stuff.  I don't know who "Mama" is, but I totally wanted to hug her.   

Mama's Guava BarsLike I said further above, I got the hell out of that grand tent as soon as I possibly could.  Famished, since I had not sampled much of the food, I went back to my hotel and noshed on a spicy tuna roll.

Blade at the Fountainebleau: Spicy tuna rollAfter a fabulous afternoon nap in my comfy hotel bed (I know, life is really hard), Em and I got ready and joined two of our new friends (who we met at the pool) for dinner at local favorite, Pubbelly.  Although the restaurant does not take reservations, we scored an awesome outdoor table without having to wait more than a minute!  Unfortunately, I did not have my fancy camera on me that night, so that explains the lack of photos.  Plus, I'm too embarrassed to share the shiteous shots that I actually snapped of the meal with my iPhone.  So, instead, I will just give a brief, jealousy-inducing synopsis of what we enjoyed:

• Sour Patch Kid (cocktail):  Sake, pickled pineapple, chili flakes
• Stone Crab claws
• Croquetas:  Chorizo, roasted apple aioli
• BBQ Pork Wings:  Smoked teriyaki, picked grapes slaw, bacon
• Eggplant Fries:  Housemade ketchup
• Shortrib & Corn dumplings:  Black truffle, corn soy, shiso, parmigiano
• Kimchee Fried Rice:  Porkbelly & pineapple

I would wholeheartedly recommend Pubbelly to anyone looking to try multiple, eclectic plates that are packed full of flavor and creativity.  We absolutely loved our experience!

For a night cap, the four of us headed to the uber chic and trendy SLS Hotel, where I realized that, never in my entire life, had I been surrounded by more sexy, breathtakingly gorgeous human beings.  Seriously.  Ladies:  If you want your man to *not* pay you any attention and check out other girls all night, take him here!!  On that note, the public facilities at this hotel, bars and restaurants, are no place to step foot within if you're having a "fat day" or a "bad hair day."  Trust me, you will only feel much worse!

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On Sunday morning, I caught another flight out of Fort Lauderdale and headed home.  Although I was sad to leave another outstanding weekend in Miami, I was looking forward to seeing my pup, Lucy, who turned 1 the day prior.  A belated-birthday celebration was in order!

Thanks for this, D Pet Hotels!~~~

Until we eat again,

The Lunch Belle

The (two) Weekly Eater: 2/03 - 2/17

What I loved and/or really stood out last week from the past two weeks (2/03 - 2/17) 

Yes, that's right, the title says "two weeks."  I know that you guys probably think I'm the world's biggest asshole for virtually going MIA, but things in La Vida Lunch Belle have been a bit kah-ray-zee.  I promise that, once the dust that is 'my schedule' settles, I will get right back to my daily musings & postings. 

Until then, dear readers, please enjoy...

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Superbowl Sunday  Instead of going to some raucous bar this year, my friend, Nicole, invited me and Lucy (my dog) over to her fabulous new abode.  I volunteered to bring my homemade chicken enchiladas (recipe to come, soon!) and chile con queso dip.  Nicole provided the margaritas and guacamole, and Liza was put in charge of dessert.

What is it with dogs and their obsession with lying on wee-wee pads?Liza's football cupcakes!

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Gaonnuri  You mean, what did I love aside from the ridiculous views courtesy of the restaurant's 39th floor abode?  An assortment of the best savory Korean pancakes I've ever had (...OK, so that's not saying *too* much, since I haven't had that many Korean pancakes.  But, still, they were still life-altering to this naive gringa.)

Quite the view from my seat at the tableAn assortment of savory Korean pancakes

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The "croissant'wich" breakfast sandwich from 'wichcraft   Buttery.  Salty.  Oozing with melted, gooey, aged cheddar cheese and the gently-cooked yolks of two fried eggs.  All sandwiched between a buttered, griddled croissant.  Are you drooling yet?  Thought so.  Call it what you will - ravenous hunger - a monumental hangover - or just the fact that it was legitimately delicious - this breakfast sandwich rocked and shell-shocked my otherwise-jaded world. 

P.S.  All of this tantalizing goodness only comes in at 455 calories!  That ain't much if you workout...  

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Brunch at Mesa Azteca  For our most recent NY Mexican Food Lovers' Meetup, we found ourselves in Bushwick (Brooklyn) at this fabulous little gem located within a stone's throw of the Dekalb Avenue subway stop. 

From its affordable pricing, outdoor beer garden (which I plan to visit during the warmer months), kick ass margaritas, and delicious food, Mesa Azteca is a destination-worthy winner.

A warm and inviting interior space (decked out with Valentine's Day motifs)Tamarind margaritaMexican trinity: Chips, salsa, and guacamoleChilaquiles rojos con juevos

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Valentine's Day in the Big Apple  While I will always think that this is the most redonk day of the entire calendar year, I must say that V-Day 2013 was filled with lots of laughs and, believe it or not, a first date...

BELOW:  Enjoying the free photo booth at Barry's Bootcamp!

BELOW:  Check out this incredibly cheesy, goosebump-inducing card that a friend of a friend found at Rite Aid!!

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Ewwwww! Blech!A romantical Empire State Building

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D Pet Hotels  Although I may be a "yes" person, I *hate* - I repeat, LOATHE - asking anyone to do me a favor.  So, whenever I leave town - which is often - I leave my sweet lil' Maltese, Lucy, at D Pet Hotels.  Not only does she love going in for daycare on occasion, she completely relishes in their posh boarding facilities when I travel.  And best of all?  The employees at DPH adore her.  It's a total win-win.

Disclaimer:  Yes, I 100% realize that my pup lives a better life than most human beings.  What can I say?  I'm a total sucker.

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The sights, sounds, and flavors of San Antonio  I was in San Antonio this past weekend for my college friend's wedding.  And, let me tell you, it was so nice to escape the teen-degree temperatures of NYC for the gorgeous 60/70-something afternoons in Texas.  Plus, it goes without saying that the Mexican food kicked major ass...

The famous RiverwalkCheese enchiladas, rice, refritosMargarita, chips & queso

If you find yourself in San Antonio in the near future, I highly recommend checking out Restaurant Gwendolyn, a not-so-hidden downtown gem.  The menu is built using techniques and methods that only existed before 1850.  Food is cooked without modern equipment - coffee is brewed on an open flame - and Chef Michael personally meets his farmers/ranchers - bypassing the ol' Sysco-style delivery truck.  All perishable ingredients are sourced from within 150-miles of the restaurant.  Restaurant Gwendolyn is destination-worthy and, certainly, a must-visit!  

Seared amberjack, classic risotto, lemon hollandaise

I'd like to give a shout-out to all of the dear high school and college friends that I was so blessed to get to visit with in San Antonio.  I love y'all!

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Antojeria La Popular  From the name, alone, I knew that Soho's newest Mexican would be an authentic and delicious success.  Although there isn't a full bar as of yet, the sangrias are refreshing and the wine-based cocktails are creative.  Entice your palate with the eccentric "Distrito Federal" ceviche:  A blend of sirloin, shrimp, and tilapia.

I look forward to returning on a Saturday or Sunday morning when I can enjoy the $7.95 "Chilaquiles Brunch." 

White sangriaMichoacan: Chicken, mole, queso fresco, lettuce, toasted sesame, crema fresca on a corn tostadaFlan con cajeta

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And tomorrow, dear readers, I'm off to the South Beach Wine & Food Festival in Miami!  As per usual, I promise to go text/picture crazy on Twitter, Instagram, Foursquare, and Facebook in an effort to keep all of you abreast of everything that's happening.  So if you're not already following me on every goddamn social media outlet on the planet, do so now!  I promise to keep you *very* entertained. 

~~~

Until we eat again,

The Lunch Belle

The Weekly Eater: 1/27 - 2/03

Since I'm transitioning in to a new-ish role at work, my schedule is kind of all over the place.  That, paired with the fact that I've just begun a month-long "academy" at Barry's Bootcamp (which is a 5x/week commitment - every weekday morning at 6am).  Needless to say, I'm exhausted.  But I'm also really excited about the new challenges ahead.

So, because I'm a bit pressed for time, I thought that, at least until I get in to a routine, I will start posting a summary of my favorite eats/drinks/activities/etc. from the week prior.  Hopefully, every Monday or Tuesday...

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What I loved and/or really stood out last week (1/27 - 2/03)

Jamba Juice's "Brown Sugar Crumble" Oatmeal

I remember reading somewhere that Jamba Juice's oatmeal was" really good and way better than Starbucks" which, to be honest, didn't really mean anything to me.  I typically hate oatmeal.  And I think that the food at Starbucks - minus the cake pops - is sub par. 

Sick of my usual routine - which included a Nature Valley granola bar - I decided to give Jamba Juice's oatmeal a shot.  Unbeknownst to me, it happened to be "$1 oatmeal day" on the morning that I stopped in the store (which, by the way, happens *every* Wednesday!).  What an incentive, right?  I mean, what did I really have to lose for $1?

I chose the "Brown Sugar Crumble" because it was the lowest-calorie of the trio (registering at 220 calories/single serving), which also includes Blueberry/Blackberry and Fresh Banana.  Upon opening the container, my first observation was how scrumptiously attractive the oatmeal appeared.  By that, I mean it didn't look like a grey glop.  Beneath a crust of fresh brown sugar was a heaping helping of oatmeal.  I liked how visibly textured it appeared - you know, dispersed with tons of tiny lumpy-bits. 

Warm and comforting, just like that favorite blanket on your sofa, this transcendent bowl of slow-cooked porridge did not disappoint.  Since that first bite nearly 6-weeks ago, I eat this delicious oatmeal every single morning.  It's actually what I look forward to when I wake up! 

Now THAT is some sexy oatmeal!

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Soul Cycle

"Spin is in."  And I have always bled Flywheel's black and blue.  However, in anticipation of a friend's upcoming birthday at Soul Cycle, I figured that I should take one class to familiarize myself prior to her event.

I wanted to hate it.  So bad.  I wanted to walk out of the studio post-class - roll my eyes - and feel reassured that Flywheel reigned supreme.  Well, that didn't happen.  I found Soul Cycle to be very different, but in a really refreshing and positive way.  Without a calibrated number on your bike, you don't feel like you're battling yourself or competing against the girl next to you.  Because, at Flywheel, you're only as good as your last number.  Period.  And, at least when I spin, I just want to lose myself in the rhythm of the music and enjoy the dark serenity surrounding me.  Additionally, at Soul Cycle, other body parts are incorporated in to the exercise beyond just your legs.  It's a winning formula.

This does not mean that I'm a convert, it just means that I appreciate and respect the differences between Soul Cycle and Flywheel. 

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Millesime

$1 oysters every weekday from 5:30pm-8pm at Millesime's Oyster Bar

Spicy Tuna Tartare  If you love the contents of a well made spicy tuna roll, then this appetizer is for you:  A rectangular mold of lightly-bound tuna tartare is topped with a crunchy slaw and fried wonton strips for texture, and finished with an agave-soy jus.  Absolute decadence and sheer perfection.

Cherry/Chocolate Croissant Pudding  This was, without a doubt, one of the most memorable desserts I've had of late.  Imagine, if you will, a ramekin filled with warm, gooey, intensely-rich "bread pudding."  Only, instead of day-old bread, Millesime's version is made with chocolate/cherry croissant scraps.  And is crowned with a scoop of chocolate ice cream that nearly liquefies when placed atop the warm pudding.  Heavenly...

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7-11's "Vermont Blueberry" coffee  I know, I know.  This sounds completely asinine, gnarly and, in all honesty, makes absolutely no sense.  Blueberry coffee?  Trust me, I was so geeked out when I saw this flavor at the 7-11 on 7th Avenue...that I had to taste it!  And guess what?  It's actually *really* good!  Seriously, if you see this wacky blend at your local 7-11, give it a try and please let me know what you think! 

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A Taste of Modern Luxury: Celebrity Cruises Pops Up in New York City   Of any "pop up" that I've ever attended, this was, by far, the best.  Held at The Kitchen, the team from Celebrity Cruises "came to land," if you will, to showcase cocktails from resident mixologist, Junior Merino, and culinary creations prepared by Chef John Suley.

Tasteful and lovely decor in the "Molecular Bar" area of the space. 

Junior Merino pours one of his signature cocktails.

My first cocktail of the evening was the "El Angel," which was a concoction of:  Dehydrated Hibiscus, citrus, Dainzu Gomme, tequila blanco, mezcal joven, and Junior Merino's Aleppo Pepper Lime Rimmer

After finishing my first cocktail within minutes, I chose to proceed with "Coming Up Roses," a concoction made of:  Bacardi Razz, lime, Dainzu Rose Essence, rose petals, champagne, and Junior Merino's Rasberry Rose Foam.

About 3/4 of the way finished with my second cocktail, Michelle and I were whisked to our table for dinner.  Let me just say that if the three courses we enjoyed are anything akin to what is served onboard, I am confident that a Celebrity Cruise will be in my *very* near future...

Bread & salted butter for the tableJerusalem Artichoke Veloute: Iberico ham, black trumpet mushrooms, sourdough croutons, marscaponeHandmade Ricotta Cavatelli: Wild mushroom fricassee, mach, parmigiano reggiano, shaved black truffles (look at those truffles!!!)Five Spice Crusted Cervena Venison Loin: Celery root fondant, wilted spinach, red cabbage marmalade, lingonberry sauceSeared Halibut (this was my favorite dish of the evening): Salsify, beef oxtail marmalade, Brussels sprouts, parmesan emulsion

Pork and "Beans": Tenderloin, cheek, tarbals beans, collard greens, heirloom carrots, cider jus

Strawberry Fields and CustardsWarm Pineapple Tart Tatin: Coconut rum ice cream, lime confit, passion fruitValrhona Cocoa Cake: Chocolate mousse, peanut butter creme brulee, salted caramel ice cream

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Needless to say, it was a very delicious and eventfull week! 

Thank you all, in advance, for your patience as I transition in to my new schedule. 

~~~

Until we eat again (next week),

The Lunch Belle

Bringing "sexy" back to the salad

Do you hate to eat salads because the sheer act of doing so is messy, awkward, and unattractive?  Have you noticed that, unless you have the luxury of ordering/preparing it "chopped," each forkful is too big for your mouth (see photo of Mike Tyson, below)?  Well, I have the perfect solution:  Chopsticks.  Obviously, you're not going to bring a pair with you to a restaurant, but keep some disposable sets in your desk at work and your kitchen at home.  Doing so will make feasting on your daily greens much easier and incredibly more enjoyable.  And, not to mention, way sexier for the poor fools who, god forbid, have to watch you eat.  

Trust me, put this practice to use and you'll thank me later. 

So. Not. Cute.~~~

Until we eat again,

The Lunch Belle

Reviewed: Gilbert Gottfried's "The Diet Show"

For someone who has the attention span of a fruit fly, you can only imagine how well I do at theater productions, movies, concerts, etc.  After about 15-minutes, I get bored and antsy.  Restless leg syndrome sets in and I find myself anxiously taking turns glancing between the exit door and my watch... 

Toward the end of 2012, I was invited to view "The Diet Show," Gilbert Gottfried, Sean Pomper, and Karen Katz's comedy production starring past winners, finalists and contestants of the hit TV show, The Biggest Loser.  Now, under any other circumstance, I wouldn't have even opened this email pitch had the word "Diet" not caught my eye.  After reading the press release, however, I did something very out of character:  I RSVP'd with a whole-hearted "YES!"  Because, aside from the fact that I'm obsessed with the digital number on the scale, for much of my life, I've not-so-proudly worn the "diet whore" crown.  So it's without even saying that I have a soft spot for anyone who struggles with their weight and appearance.

On Saturday night, I met my friend, Nicole, at Stage 72 for the 7pm performance of The Diet Show.  The first thing that stood out was the small, intimate theater space - located above a Turkish restaurant - that boasted ornate detail and dark, gothic colors (think red, black, gold). 

Photo by Stage 72As we filed in to the theater, an employee noted that there was a 2-drink minimum per person.  While that "rule" may annoy some, I was thrilled to hear that a) there was alcohol, and b) there was table-service! 

Nicole and I scored a great front-row seat.  Just as we received our cocktails - some chocolate-y martini thing for her, and a margarita for me - the lights began to dim.  Show time!

The production was incredibly entertaining, hysterical, and tear-jerking.  All at the same time.  Imagine, if you will, eleven personal, heartfelt monologues given by former winners and contestants of The Biggest Loser.  Not once did I look down at my watch...or yawn.  Instead, I laughed.  I nodded my head many times, both in agreement and in that sympathetic "I've been there before, too."  And I bawled.  The cast spoke about everything from food addiction, working out, and looking death in the eye to always making it a point to poke fun at themselves before anyone else could have the opportunity.  Pretty heavy stuff.  Especially when you, too, have been there.

I would recommend this show to anyone who appreciates a solid comedy routine and, on the serious side of things, has ever struggled with weight, dieting, poor self esteem, food addiction, etc.  Hey, isn't that almost all of us?  

For more information or to buy tickets, click here.

~~~

Until we eat again,

The Lunch Belle

What happens in Vegas...

"What happens in Vegas" doesn't necessarily have to stay in Vegas.  In fact, I'm going to share my recent jaunt that included: An incredibly delicious brunch in Paris - a steal of a haute hotel room - a walk down the isle - and a couple of other shenanigans.

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Did you know, if you go to Vegas around Christmas time, that hotel rooms are incredibly affordable and restaurant/lounge reservations are a breeze to snag?  It's the low season and, in laymen's terms, all that really means is that you can't swim outdoors.  Now, while that may be a total bust to you sun goddesses, I can't imagine a more miserable situation than roasting in 115-degree dry, summer heat.  I'll take the winter, thank you very much.

One of my best friends from college, Erin, decided that she wanted to get married on the weekend before Christmas.  In Vegas.  With scheduled plans to visit my family in California for the holidays, Vegas was all too conveniently on my way.  While most of the guests had plans to stay at the Wynn, I chose The Four Seasons.  Why?  Because I had Lucy, my lil' pup, in tow.  And the Wynn is not dog-friendly.   And neither are too many other properties.

Lucy gets some fresh air on our way to JFK...and passed out like a log in-flight.The Four Seasons is connected-ish to Mandalay Bay which, aside from being inconvenient to most of the other casinos, is located alllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll the way at the beginning of the Strip.  However, if it's tranquility (there is not a casino in the hotel), outstanding service, updated guest rooms, and a pet-friendly environment you're after, look no further than The Four Seasons. 

Looking up from the pool at The Four SeasonsSince checkin wasn't until 3pm, I began to panic.  What would I do with Lucy while I hosted Erin's bridesmaid's bruncheon at 10:30am?  Luckily, the hotel's concierge was quick to reassure me and arranged for a pet sitter to watch my lil' girl while I was entertaining.

I hosted Erin's bridesmaid's bruncheon at Mon Ami Gabi, a French brasserie, in the Paris Hotel.  This particular venue was chosen because: 

• French food is romantic.  So is getting married.
• It received very high rankings on Zagat.
• They offer a $25, 2-course, prix-fixe menu.
• Working with onsite event planner, Rebecca, was seamless.

In order to sass things up a bit, I quickly decorated the table with plastic "gems" (from Party City) and placed a salted-caramel macaron at each lady's coffee saucer (I purchased a dozen from Macaron Parlour here in NYC.  Transporting them was simple, as Macaron Parlour has indestructible packaging!).

Erin and, on her left, the maid of honor and, to her right, the flower girl.

Le menu

First course:  Fruit salad and fresh croissant

Second course:  Entree.  I chose the traditional Eggs Benedict.

After brunch, I went back to The Four Seasons to fetch Lucy and check in.  

I scored a room with two double beds and a killer view for only $179/night.  Beat that, bitches! 

The hotel gifted Lucy with an adorable stuffed animal that looked just like her!

The Four Seasons provided a doggie bed, a place mat topped with a food and water bowl, and homemade doggie treats!  FYI:  Those two green cups in the center of the mat were ones that I brought from home.

After relaxing for a few hours, it was already time to head to the Wynn for Erin's ceremony.

My sweet friend made the most beautiful bride.

Post nuptials, we clinked glasses of bubbly and enjoyed some outstanding hors d'oeuvre at the property's stunning Lakeside Restaurant.  

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On Sunday, Lucy and I spent the day shopping at The Forum Shoppes and Barney's, where I did some serious retail damage on the sale racks.  Ultimately, with the dough that I saved on marked-down items, I caved and bought this lil' number:

For dinner, I met Erin and her husband for a 'meat and potatoes' fix at Gallagher's Steakhouse in New York, New York (...obviously not my choice of venue, since I live in "New York, New York"). 

For a night cap, we decided to grab another round at Bar at Times Square, where we caught an unbelievably entertaining "dueling pianos" performance...

...and the fans go wild!

"Ooooooooooooooooooooooooh oh!"

"We're half way theeeeeeeeeeeeeeere!"

"Ooooooooooooooooooooooooooh oh!  Livin' on a praaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayer!" 

I don't know who that woman was, but what a total bad ass for rocking out like "no one was watching!" 

On Christmas Eve, Lucy and I bid Vegas adieu and caught a 1pm flight to San Diego. 

Do you have any favorite Las Vegas venues or money-saving tips? 

~~~

Until we eat again,

The Lunch Belle