March 25th, 2011
Are you tired of constantly giving people your autograph? You’re in luck, because in 2012, vacations on Crystal Cruises‘ Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity will be All Inclusive, which means no more signing for complimentary fine wines and premium spirits. Crystal’s new All Inclusive plan will also include pre-paid gratuities for housekeeping, bar and dining staff, including the Penthouse butler service and service in all of Crystal’s fine specialty restaurants and sushi bar. Now you can travel like a celebrity, without being bothered like one.
The new benefits will begin with each ship’s first Trans-Atlantic cruise next year: Crystal Symphony’s “Beyond the Sea” sailing from Miami to Lisbon on March 19, 2012, and Crystal Serenity’s “New World to Norway” voyage from New York to London on May 8, 2012.
March 18th, 2011
Park Hyatt’s twenty-fifth annual Masters of Food & Wine kicks off March 31st in Mendoza, and what better location to introduce the renowned festival than the heart of Argentina’s winemaking industry and one of the great wine capitals of the world?
The ‘quaffability’ of Mendoza’s Malbecs and Tempranillo grapes come from vines planted at some of the highest altitudes in the world, at an average of 900 meters above sea level, which allows for decreased temperature, exposure to the sun’s strongest rays, and greater “thermal amplitude”—the difference between day and night temperatures. In most regions, grapes stop growing properly at around 1000 meters.
The team at Bodega Catena Zapata winery has its own Research and Development program, which investigates various aspects of high altitude viticulture on the Malbec variety of grape. The result is a more intense, robust grape with colors, aromas and taste unique to the region—which we can appreciate, even without science. It’s a good thing we have nice things to say about Mendoza Malbecs, because these grapes are notoriously thin-skinned.
March 4th, 2011
For a classic taste of Russia while looking out over the picturesque (and far removed) Dubai Creek, visit The Terrace at Park Hyatt Dubai this month. As a Happy Hour aphrodisiac, The Terrace raw bar offers a wide selection of caviar, oysters, and Balik salmon accompanied by more than 20 premium vodkas. Plates and pairings are served dialing from noon until 2 a.m.
If you’re feeling slightly more Parisian, the Terrace will also continue its Organic ZwyerCaviar and Veuve Clicquot Champagne Promotion on Fridays and Saturdays in March. Guests may enjoy two complimentary glasses of Veuve Clicquot with every purchase of a 125g tin of ZwyerCaviar. The caviar comes from Russian and Siberian sturgeon, but is harvested exclusively in Uruguay. Bon ваша пища في دبي!
March 3rd, 2011
Chefs from six of Phuket’s top resorts will battle it out in a Top Chef meets Iron Chef showdown on March 25. The result will be a six-course dinner showcasing culinary talents of all the top toques, with one chef preparing each of the courses. For added pressure, the chef must also choose the wine pairing.
Participating chefs are Justin Maiklem and Jimmy Karl of Anantara Phuket, Paresa Resort’s James Stanton, Thomas Smith of Sheraton Grande Laguna, Amanpuri’s Stefano Artosin, Silvano Amolini of Dusit Thani Laguna, and David Hamilton of Banyan Tree Phuket. The dinner will be held along the beach at Paresa Resort and tickets are $130. All the proceeds will go to The Good Shepherd Sisters to assist underprivileged women and girls in both Phuket and around Thailand. We’ll eat a second helping to that!
February 28th, 2011
We’ve been begging the new Chef Kyle Zachary at TOPPER’S at The Wauwinet to share a delicious yet not too difficult recipe with us, one that we can make in preparation for TOPPER’S seasonal opening on May 4th. Alas, here it is – delicious, classic Osso Bucco Milanese, turned elegant with the addition of saffron to the risotto. And while we’re excited to taste-test this recipe for ourselves, we know we will be even more elated to try out TOPPER’S new menu when we are on Nantucket this summer (see the photo above to understand just how magical a meal at TOPPER’S can be!) Recipe below: (more…)
February 25th, 2011
I love trying new foods, cooking them up myself, trolling specialty food shops for new ingredients, and trying out as many restaurants as I can. As the go-to for restaurant recommendations for the office, my friends, and my family, I’ve amassed a guarded list of my favorite places to go in the city. Although my cooking and eating pursuits aren’t terribly private (you can see almost everything I cook, eat, and drink on my blog, Sybil’s Spoon, or my twitter feed, @sybilbunn ) I take pride in my little collection. Only because I love our AMPR blog readers, I’ve been convinced to share my secrets. Happy restaurant hopping!
Best BYOBs
La Sirène – I’m hesitant to give out the name of favorite restaurant – this is the most romantic, delicious, hole-in-the-wall. It’s kind of in the middle of nowhere in SoHo and serves up the best mussels I’ve ever tasted (the moules vignerones). Everything I’ve tried on the menu, I’ve loved, and each entrée is served with a side of roasted and pureed vegetables. Be sure to save room for dessert – the profiteroles are heavenly.
Taureau – This narrow fondue restaurant in the East Village is by the same chef who started La Sirène. The prix fixe gives you lots of food – both cheese and meat fondue with a little green salad, followed by yummy chocolate fondue for dessert.
Kuma Inn – This “Asian Tapas” place fills up super quickly, so be sure to reserve well ahead of time. There’s a small corkage fee per bottle, but it’s a great place to go with friends for a night out. Be sure to order the Chinese sausage and the wasabi shumai. And afterward, head next door to Los Feliz.
Morakote Siam – This is pretty bare bones, but great for a casual dinner. It’s right by my apartment, so I’ll often grab a bottle of wine and go with a friend. Our bill is rarely over $20 total. Be sure to try the Thai Chili Beef and the veggie spring rolls.
Most Romantic
La Ramblas – Sentiment may be why I think this place is romantic (I went on my first date with my boyfriend here) but the dim lighting and emphasis on sharing back up my opinion. The small, high tables get filled with various tapas plates like grilled octopus or truffled mushroom salad with avocados. And the sangria is sweet, delicious, and disappears quickly.
The Place – I stumbled across The Place during a snowstorm and went in for a drink. The bar was dimly lit with candles and it was extremely cozy. I went back for dinner and it was equally romantic, even in warmer weather – although I think it shines most in winter.
Recette – This restaurant is super hot right now, so be sure to make a reservation and don’t expect to be seated right away (comfortable shoes may be in order). After a rough start waiting to be seated, it turned out to be wonderful. We sat at a little table next to the big, tiled windows looking out onto West 12th street. The food was incredible, and I recommend the carpaccio wrapped buratta with tomato jelly – creamy, savory, and tart.
Lupa – Mario Batali doesn’t ever seem to put a foot wrong, and he certainly hasn’t this time either with this, his less-expensive version of Babbo. I actually find the food here better than Babbo, and the atmosphere certainly wins out. Ask to be seated in the back room in the corner booth. It’s much more cozy and romantic sitting next to your date in a corner booth than sitting across from one another. Order the buccatini all’amatriciana.
Best Indian
Ghandi Café – This narrow, little Indian place is right around the corner from my apartment. They serve up the tastiest curries and hands down the best naan I’ve ever eaten. For two people, I suggest ordering the dinner for one and an additional curry. (The dinner for one comes with this amazing crispy vegetable fritter, naan, papadam, and a curry – along with three chutneys.) That way you get to taste a few things, and there’s usually enough left over for lunch. My favorite curry so far is the dansahk, slightly spicy with spinach and lentils.
Best Chinese
Grand Sichuan Eastern – There are several outposts of this chain, but the one on 55th and 2nd is the best. Along with the American-style Chinese food staples, they have a Sichuan menu with spicy, fresh options. If you live nearby, order delivery because the place isn’t terribly charming. If not, stop by if you’re in the neighborhood. The Spicy Chicken with Chinese Broccoli is delicious, and if you like heat, also try the Spicy Wontons in Red Oil.
Best Sushi
Tomoe – This unassuming little sushi place looks pretty run-of-the-mill, but the line outside the door proves it isn’t. The décor doesn’t wow, but the sushi does. It’s incredibly fresh and noticeably better than other sushi. I don’t know how they do it, but the fish is just better. Go for rolls instead of à la carte or you’ll be in for a hefty bill.
Best Pizza
John’s – This place is conveniently located about 30 seconds from my apartment, but even if it’s a hike, it’s worth a trip. They don’t serve slices, only whole pizza’s, but it’s not hard to gobble one down even with just two people. It’s New York pizza at its best. The secret to avoiding the long lines is calling ahead for pick up, as long as you have a place to eat it!
Moustache – John’s has the best NY pizza, but Moustache has the best Turkish pizza. This cute little place has brass tables and a casual vibe, and along with the usual suspects (hummus, babaganoush, etc), they have Turkish pitzas with thin crusts and lots of flavor.
Best Bar Food
Blind Tiger – This craft beer bar has a surprisingly good menu. It’s a fun and unexpected place to grab lunch on the weekend. Along with your Allagash White or Rogue Brutal Bitter, nosh on amazingly flavorful and juicy bahn mi minis, chili, or savory BLTs.
Rye House – The bar snacks here have a southern bent with things like fried pickles (frickles!) and boiled peanuts. A great place to grab drinks with a boy, especially one who enjoys bourbon.
Best Mexican
La Palapa West – The salsa they give you to start is so good you can eat it with a spoon – and embarrassingly enough, I’ve been known to scoop a few bites before the chips arrive. The tacos are great too, especially the chipotle chicken.
Best Trucks
Bistro Truck – Just down the street from AMPR, I love running here for a quick lunch like salad niçoise loaded with potatoes, tuna, tomatoes, and other goodies or chicken cigars - crispy, tasty, and cheap. Also, the Portobello burger is tangy and delicious with roasted red peppers, goat cheese, and balsamic.
Seafood
Fish – If you like oysters, this is the place to go. For $8 you get 6 Blue Point oysters (or clams) and your choice of house red or white wine or PBR on tap. If you sit at the bar, you can also snack on the big marble bowls of peanuts.
Milos – This can be a little pricey, but the fish is amazing and fresh and it’s just like a restaurant in Greece – you get to choose your own fish. I definitely recommend getting a whole fish because it’s fun to pick it out, and they’re flakey and served simply with lemon and olive oil. Really authentic and light.
Best Cupcakes
Sweet Revenge – You may know this place from its appearance on Chase commercials. It’s a great place for an afternoon snack or after dinner dessert. The cupcakes come in several varieties with two daily specials. Plus, they do wine and beer pairings, so you may be recommended a sparkling framboise to drink with your red velvet cupcake. If you like salty and sweet, try the fleur de sel cupcake – it’s amazing.
Baked by Melissa – These tiny little cupcakes are perfect for a snack with fun flavors like oreo and cookie dough and they won’t leave you feeling guilty. I can’t claim credit for discovering this – thank you Sarah Winters for getting these for the office!
Best Pork Buns
Fatty Crab – While the pork buns at Momofuku are savory and delicious, Fatty Crab’s win in my book. With the same basic set up – a fluffy, sweet steamed bun, a fatty, caramelized slice of pork belly, Hoisin sauce – Fatty Crab goes the extra mile with its spicy cilantro salad to stuff into the bun and its bulls eye of Sriracha in the bowl of Hoisin dipping sauce. Be careful – once you stop eating you really start to feel the burn. The slices of hardboiled egg on the plate help a little.
February 22nd, 2011
Curry connoisseurs and amateur cooks alike are invited to Park Hyatt Goa’s cooking classes every Thursday (at 3:30pm) at the hotel. The hotel’s chef will lead participants in cooking lessons for various appetizers including Pork Vindalho and Caldo Verde, entrees like Lamb Xacuti and Pomfret Recheiado, and classic Bebinca and Dodol desserts. Chefs-in-training will also get lessons on the hotel’s signature dish, Goan Prawn Curry.
Participants will also receive a customized apron and signature cookbook to continue the practice in their own kitchens. To wash it all down, the sommelier recommends pairing spicy Goan cuisine with a local Sauvignon Blanc or Cabernet Sauvignon from Sula Vineyards, in India’s largest grape growing region, Nashik, located 180 kilometers northeast of Mumbai.
Rajeev Suresh Samant, Founder and CEO of Sula Vineyards, established the vineyards in 1999. It was a pioneering effort and today the area is considered India’s wine capital with 35 wineries. Sula Vineyards is known as the leader and India’s premier wine producer. Mr. Samant was the first to introduce varietals such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Zinfandel and Riesling to India.
February 10th, 2011
On February 19th Jakes farm dinner in Treasure Beach, Jamaica is for the bees. New York Times-featured bee keeper, Cerise Mayo, is teaming up with local bee keepers from the parish of St. Elizabeth (a parish is to Jamaica as a state is to America) to craft a honey-inspired menu that is sure to lure any sweet tooth. The four-course dinner with wine pairings will start with cocktails at 5pm and take place in a working field on a local farm. As if the warm night air isn’t enough – guests get to enjoy their honeyed entrees under a full moon!
If you’re unable to join us in February, upcoming Farm Dinner dates include March 19, April 16, May 14 and June 11. Rates for the dinner are US$95/person including transfers. Guests can reserve their spot by calling Jakes at (876) 965.3000.
February 9th, 2011
Sick of streets that resemble grimy gray Slushees? Concerned about those shimmering icicles that looked so dainty in December but now look like sinister samurai swords? You’re in luck because the doctor is in, and he prescribes a healthy dose of something tropical. More specifically, a dose of Jamaica. Even more specifically? You need to partake in the celebration of the opening of GoldenEye’s Bizot Bar.
Set on the western arm of Low Cay Beach, this new hot spot is named for Jean-François Bizot, the journalist, musical taste-maker, and founder of Paris-based world music radio station, Radio Nova. Bizot was a great friend of Island Outpost owner Chris Blackwell and was a frequent guest at GoldenEye.
In honor of the bar’s namesake, Radio Nova will be broadcasting the party live from noon to 6pm. Live interviews with Jamaican and world music stars (such as Grace Jones) will run throughout the event. But wait, will it be in French or English? The answer is: both. Moderator extraordinaire, Paul Holdengraber, Director of Public Programs at the New York Public Library, will be the bilingual host with the most.
Admission is free to guests of GoldenEye, and for non-guests tickets go for US$100. To stay at GoldenEye or to reserve tickets call 876-622-9007 or email goldeneye@cwjamaica.com
But, if getting down to Jamaica isn’t in the stars for you, simply recreate the party at home…
Step 1: Tune into novaplanet.com for the broadcast
Step 2: Turn up the heat and invite some friends over
Step 3: Make a big batch of rum punch
Step 4 (Optional): Fill your apartment with sand and palm trees
February 9th, 2011
Escape to the south of France this spring and relax into the easy-going Provençal lifestyle; taste the sun-drenched cuisine, sip Rhône wines at local vineyards, and bicycle among the olive groves. Hotel Crillon le Brave, one of France’s most notable boutique hotels, is offering culinary and wine packages that combine the spectacular culture and cuisine of the region.
Truffle & Wine Weekends
Learn: Join a morning truffle hunting excursion with an expert truffler in the woods near Mont Ventoux and see how dogs sniff for the black diamonds. Back at the hotel, head into the kitchen for a cooking demonstration featuring your fresh truffles.
Tour and Explore: Taste wines at Château La Nerthe, an 800-year old estate; visit Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Provence’s antique capital; and visit local colorful outdoor markets with fresh produce on offer.
Saveur: Beef tenderloin drizzled with truffle puree, salmon stuffed with scallops and truffles and foie gras topped with truffles
Details: The three-night all-inclusive package is offered March 3-6 and March 17-20 with prices starting at €1,130 for two guests ($1,534 at time of release). Includes accommodations, above activities, and all meals (except lunch following truffle excursion). Wine with meals and transportation is an additional cost.
Cooking Program
Learn: In groups of up to eight, guests participate in five intensive half-day cooking classes with recipes for complete menus to take home.
Tour and Explore: Excursions to meet with local truffle hunters, winemakers, and cheese makers; visits to Carpentras Market (which has been in existence since 1155); wine tastings at Chateau Pesquié and, cheese sampling at a local artisanal.
Saveur: Leg of lamb, sweet onion soup, poached quail eggs, crusted sea bass, and fresh legumes
Details: The six night all-inclusive program is offered April 3-9 and April 10-16 and costs €2,900 per person. Non-cooking companions cost €1,900 per person ($1,615 at time of release). Includes accommodations, above activities, ground transportation, all meals (including wine), and welcome cocktails.
50% Savings Offer
Details: Room nights start at €125 per night ($169 at time of release), March 2 -April 28 with 50% savings offer. Crillon le Brave is open Wednesday through Saturday nights in March, and seven days a week in April. Blackout dates include April 22-24 and cannot be combined with any other offer.
To make a reservation, call +33 (0)4 90 65 61 61 or email reservations@crillonlebrave.com.
About Hotel Crillon le Brave
A relaxed haven of simple sophistication, the five-star property consists of seven beautifully restored stone houses, dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, that are linked by bridges, cobblestone walkways and hidden courtyards. The authentic Provençal accommodations include 23 rooms, seven suites and a two-bedroom house, each decorated with a mix of contemporary furnishings and shabby-chic accents.