My Favorite Baby Prep Essentials!

With just a few weeks to go until our due date, I thought now would be a great time to share all of my favorite essentials that I’ve loved using & prepping during my countdown to Baby Ginz! I did a lot of research along the way – through mama friends, my Instagram mama community, and by reading reputable websites (like The Bump) and books. There are SO many lists out there for what you “need” during pregnancy and childbirth but I really tried to use common sense when it came to what I products I felt were necessary to have throughout these last almost ten months and in preparation for a newborn.

1. One of my best mama friends, Emi, bought me the Mama Mio Tummy Rub Butter when I first told her I was expecting and I’ve been using it ever since! The butter has a really thick lotion-like texture and I use it generously every morning. At night, I follow it up with the same brand’s Tummy Oil. So far, no stretch marks – woohoo! I know, I know – stretch marks are typically genetic but anything I can do to help, right?!

2. You know you’re in nesting mode when you get excited about filling your diaper bag! It took me a LONG time to figure out what diaper bag I wanted and I knew I had to get something that my husband wouldn’t mind toting around too. A few of my friends recommended the bags from Pottery Barn Kids and this lucky lady received the most perfect one at her baby shower. It’s almost packed and ready to go! (Thanks again, Emi!)

3. The Earth Mama Angel Baby Organics tea has helped me throughout every stage of pregnancy. In the beginning, I was gifted a variety box that included four different teas for morning sickness, heartburn, calmness & one specifically for the third trimester. I’ve given up caffeine during my pregnancy, so these have been a lifesaver (that and Starbucks decaf)! Currently I’m drinking the third trimester tea to prepare my body for labor. Any day now!

4. I had seen the Solly Baby Wrap all over Instagram even before I was pregnant – and knew I HAD to have it when the time came. I’m all for ‘baby wearing’ and can’t wait to put Baby Ginz in his wrap all snuggled up. I wanted to practice with the dog.. but my husband nixed that idea! Ugh.

5. I absolutely adore my mama community on Instagram and all the guidance they’ve given me in the short time I’ve known them. I came across the Raspberriez brand through them and it was love at first sight when I saw their baby boat shoes! Every Florida baby needs boat shoes, right?! The brand is made up of a mom & daughter duo and they homemake every single pair themselves. They also have the cutest little booties! Washing & organizing little baby clothes, shoes and socks has definitely been a favorite past time lately. It’s definitely a relaxing way to prepare for baby.

6. I jokingly call my Snoogle pregnancy pillow the “third person” in the bed because when it’s tucked under the covers when the bed is made, it totally looks like there’s someone hiding in the bed. Sleeping has been ‘complicated’ and the Snoogle has been my saving grace. The pillow is fashioned in a very long “C” shape so it wraps around your body and can be used in several different positions and configurations. Hubs doesn’t know it yet, but I might keep using it after the baby is born!

7. After reading up on all the harmful implications of BPA (Bisphenol A) in plastic and how it can harm our babies, I switched to reusable water bottles early on in pregnancy. I love the Swell bottles not only because they’re beautiful, but they keep my water or tea hot or cold for the entire day! It was a seriously hot summer here in South Florida, and having ice cold water always on hand (even after accidentally leaving the bottle in the car) was everything.

8. Acai bowls have been a constant staple item for me throughout my entire pregnancy. Luckily, they’re made with all natural and organic ingredients! My favorite comes from a local smoothie spot and I love how they layer acai, peanut butter, granola and fresh fruit for the perfect refreshing snack or breakfast. It was a LONG & HOT summer here in South Florida and I’d like to credit acai bowls for keeping me sane!

Some honorable mentions are my Athleta maternity yoga pants, my Pure Barre workouts that I was able to do before I moved and was told not to workout anymore – BOO! (HEY West Boca ladies, miss you!), and coconut water to keep me super hydrated.

Are there any items that you found as must-haves during your prep for baby? Feel free to share them in a comment below! XOXO.

October 4, 2016

Motherhood + Baby

Third Trimester Bumpdate

I can’t tell if this pregnancy has flown by too quickly or dragged along too slowly, that’s a pretty weird feeling! What I do know, however, is that it has been a long hot summer here in South Florida and I’m ready for the (very) subtle shift of fall. As I type this, I’m exactly 34 weeks (WHAT?!) and starting to feel more ‘ready’ every single day. I haven’t talked about my pregnancy much, but figured now was a better time than ever to give a third trimester update for those interested!

How I’m Feeling:
Swollen! My ankles are not my best feature lately. After a brief and minor scare that left me dehydrated, I was made aware that I was having pretty strong & frequent Braxton Hicks contractions. That revelation lead my doctor to nix my Pure Barre workouts – boo! So other than feeling a little down about that, I’ve been feeling pretty good. I’m getting to the point where finding a comfortable position to lounge on the couch or sleep in is difficult, but I’m trucking along and nearing the finish line.

What I’m Missing:
Smoked fish dip has been on my mind constantly lately. You always want what you can’t have, right? All I dream about is a crunchy saltine cracker with a mound of fish dip and a slice of jalapeño on top. Who wants to volunteer to bring me some after I deliver?! I’ll also take a spicy tuna roll and a corned beef sandwich, please & thanks! I know the wine will have to wait a big longer, but it’ll be well worth the wait.

What I’m Excited For:
Besides the birth of Baby Ginz, the completion of the nursery! We just have a few more things to take care of and then it will be all set – can’t wait to share pictures. I never wanted a ‘typical’ blue boy’s nursery so we went with a gender neutral color palette of grays, taupe, ivory and mint green. I found these animal planters at Anthropologie and KNEW I needed them for the baby’s room and they fit in perfectly and gave us a ‘theme’ to work with. I’m in total nesting mode and will find myself just sitting in his room every now and then when I’m not busy washing his tiny onesies and socks!

What’s New With Baby G:
Baby Ginz (his name is top secret until he makes his debut!) is an active little guy and is measuring ahead in weight, although that’s just an estimate. He’s already head down and in position to make his way into the world, but of course we’re hoping he marinates for a few more weeks at least so that his lungs and nervous system are developed. Today, at 34 weeks, he’s about the size of a butternut squash. It’s so amazing and crazy that there’s a little human growing in my belly!

What I’m Craving:
This changes daily, but for the most part I can definitely say sugar! Dessert is always on my mind. Now that I can’t workout (besides walking), I’m trying to keep the indulgences to a minimum or make healthy swaps that feel more indulgent than they really are. I’ve been using some of Leah’s Plate’s recipes, like her Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups and those help satisfy my sweet tooth without all the extra guilt! Plus, hubby likes them too.

After an amazing baby moon spent in NYC & The Hamptons and a beautiful baby shower thrown by my friends & family (post coming soon!), I’m looking forward to taking it easy until Baby Ginz arrives. Lots of date nights, dinners with friends, and nesting before the little guy gets here and changes our world forever. Any tips from the mamas out there?

September 12, 2016

South Florida Foodies

The Dog Days of Summer with Carvel Ice Cream

Happy National Dog Day! I’m a proud fur mama of two amazingly quirky Brussels Griffons and what better way to celebrate their unconditional companionship than with their very own holiday? Life for them is certainly about to change and they have no idea what’s coming! I’m so thankful for them giving me a little taste of motherhood before the real deal heads our way in just a couple of months.

In honor of National Dog Day & this warm (understatement) Florida summer, Carvel Ice Cream (everyone’s favorite maker of real milk ice cream cakes) is hosting a “Dog Days of Summer” Dog Wash tomorrow (Saturday), August 27th in Parkland! Join Carvel, and loads of cute clean puppies, for some free deliciously refreshing ice cream cake and a free bath for your furry friends.

The deTAILS:

When: August 27th from 12-3pm
Where: Barkland Dog Park in Parkland, FL — 9245 Ranch Road
What: FREE ice cream cake & dog wash

Throughout the day, you can upload photos of your squeaky clean pup to social media for the chance to win some tasty prizes, like a custom cake with an edible photo of your pup, by using the hashtag #CarvelDogDays. See you there!

Get social with Carvel on Facebook & Instagram
Get social with me on Instagram

This post was sponsored by Carvel Ice Cream. As always, all opinions are my own.

August 26, 2016

South Florida Foodies

Sloan’s Ice Cream

It’s no myth or secret that pregnant women crave ice cream! I’ll be the first to tell you just how true that is, especially in this crazy South Florida heat. Sloan’s Ice Cream, with locations spread around South Florida (& California for my West Coast babes!), recently invited me to try their creamy cold concoctions – and how could I ever pass that up?! That decision wasn’t hard at all, the tough decision was choosing something to indulge in off of their ahhhmazing menu.

So what did I choose? Well being that I’m a true Floridian, I opted for the Sandcastle Sundae which consists of a REAL beach sand pail and shovel filled with 5 scoops of ice cream (of your choice), hot fudge, caramel, wet walnuts, any 2 dry toppings and a chocolate chip cookie on the bottom with lots of whipped cream and cherries. I was able to choose which flavors I wanted in my bucket and I went with Fresh Strawberry (my classic!), Almond Joy, Coconut Storm, Dulce de Leche and Fluffy Road. A bucket of ice cream in itself is a pregnant woman’s dream. But add in all the other goodies like an ENTIRE chocolate chip cookie, fudge, gummy bears and a mountain of whipped cream? That definitely calmed the mood swings for a bit!

Not only does Sloan’s offer the best ice cream in town, but if you’ve never been inside a Sloan’s before – you have to see it for yourself. All Sloan’s locations standout with their iconic pink storefront and are every ice cream lovers’ wonderland with colorful whimsical chandeliers, retro candy and fresh fudge & cookies. You’ll definitely feel like a kid again!

August 17, 2016

South Florida Foodies

Dunkin’ Donuts: New Donut Flavors

It’s pretty clear by now that I’ve crowned myself the unofficial Donut Queen of South Florida. So when there’s donut news, I need to be in the know. Dunkin’ Donuts recently contacted me to let me know about three new items that I absolutely couldn’t wait to get my hands on: an OREO® & Raspberry Cheesecake Square and a Strawberry Croissant Donut. One of my silly fears during my pregnancy was that my tastebuds would change and I wouldn’t love the same things that I used to (that’s kind of a big deal for a foodie!). Donuts, thank goodness, are still my most favorite dessert & I love them more than ever! My title as Donut Queen is safe, in case you were worried. Continue Reading

May 12, 2016

Motherhood + Baby

Miles + (No More) Mimosas – I’m Pregnant!

SURPRISE! Pregnancy is by far the HARDEST secret to keep, EVER! Especially when your #1 hobby is wining & dining out with friends & fellow bloggers. Despite my new dietary restrictions, I think we did a pretty good job at keeping it under wraps until our big reveal. Thank you to my good friend Shaina, AKA Take a Bite Out of Boca, for encouraging me to write this post! Continue Reading

May 4, 2016

South Florida Foodies

Jugofresh Comes to Boca Raton!

Disclosure: I was invited to dine as a guest of Jugofresh. No monetary compensation has been received for this post. As always, all opinions are my own.

I was so excited when I heard the news that Jugofresh was coming to Whole Foods in Boca Raton! I know what you’re thinking, “ANOTHER juice bar in Boca?!” But let me be the first to tell you that Jugofresh is so unique and such a refreshing experience – and conveniently located where you can do your grocery shopping at the same time! Jugofresh has several other locations, all south of Boca in Fort Lauderdale & Miami, and has a very interesting story about how a chef & a guy with a master’s degree in sports and exercise psychology came together with a vision to produce the purest organic product with their own innovative twist (I love their motto – ‘hydrate with a purpose’ and ‘drink mad juice’). As soon as you begin tasting their menu items, you will realize how much their twist on things really sets them apart from the others.

I was lucky enough to be invited by Jugofresh to try a few of their menu offerings – which range from juices and smoothies to acai bowls and little snacks to keep you energized (check out their menu here). We started with some juices and tasted Ashram, Mimosa Detox, Coco Mylk, P.A.M.pered Ginger, and Sueno (obviously you know which one was my favorite – Mimosa Detox!). I couldn’t help but think that the Mimosa Detox would also be great for just the opposite – with a smidge of champagne. Some of the juices offer a little kick to get your metabolism going, and some are a bit sweeter – all unlike any juices I’ve really tried before. Each bottle is labeled with the ingredients and how it helps you body, whether it fights inflammation or boosts your immunity when you’re feeling under the weather.

Oftentimes, I love to start my day with a smoothie. Smoothies are portable, healthy, and filling – the perfect trifecta when you’re on the run. When I can’t make one myself, I want to be able to pick up something that I know exactly what’s in it – and how it’s going to help start my day. Jugofresh’s smoothies are all that and more. I was able to taste the Rey Jorge and the Jugofly. The Rey Jorge was the sweeter of the two – made with almond mylk, açai berry, blueberry, banana, strawberry, honey. The Jugofly was a greener smoothie – made with coconut water, coconut meat, kale, spinach, apple, blueberry, spirulina, hemp, chorella, coconut palm nectar. I was into both and I like that they have those options for whatever I’m craving that day.

Acai bowls are the new craze – they feel indulgent but instead are packed with everything healthy! Jugofresh has several different options, and just like their smoothies, you can go sweet or not. During my tasting, I was able to try the Sunset Harbour Acai, Acai Verde and the Sana de Rana. Each bowl has a base that resembles a smoothie in a bowl, and then some delicious toppings – ranging from coconut flakes and goji berries, to kale-cacao granola (which is SO good) and a superberry coconut cashew mix. These bowls are not only gorgeous to look at, but so healthy and super tasty!

Jugofresh is a great addition to Boca Raton, I love seeing more healthy options pop up all over this city! Located inside Whole Foods, it’s easy to grab a juice or smoothie when I’m on the go, or while I’m doing my grocery shopping. The bowls at Jugofresh can appeal to even the most unhealthiest eater because they resemble dessert without all the guilt. If you haven’t been yet, stop by Whole Foods and give it a whirl, you can even sample the juices before making a purchase to be sure you’re buying what you love! If {jugo} to Jugofresh to #drinkmadjuice, let me know what you end up getting. Cheers!

Jugofresh is located inside Whole Foods on 1400 Glades Road in Boca Raton – and you can find them on Instagram here!

December 22, 2015

South Florida Foodies

Eat Local: Delray Beach

I just adore little local restaurants that put their all into serving the best quality possible with every ounce of passion and love they have. I’d choose that over a corporate chain ANY day. The first of my “Eating Local” series puts a spotlight on Delray Beach because it’s my favorite – I love the Ave. My list has been curated over the many years I’ve eaten in Delray Beach, with some newbies and veterans all mixed in and categorized by which meal of the day I crave them.

Breakfast + Brunch

Max’s Harvest // 169 NE 2nd Ave.

Nestled down in Pineapple Grove, away from the hustle + bustle of the main strip, Max’s Harvest has my favorite brunch (& dinner, just sayin’!) just about anywhere in South Florida. Chef Eric Baker clearly knows his way around the kitchen because his flavors are so on point. The menu changes from time-to-time, leaving me with that element of surprise that I can’t get enough of. Right now from their current menu (aside from their awesome Mimosa & Bloody Mary situation) I’m loving the Deviled Hen Eggs with truffle sea salt & chives, the Grilled Salami Benedict (an english muffin topped with sunny side hen eggs from Farmer Jay, whole grain mustard, braised collard greens, & roasted tomato hollandaise), and OF COURSE, the donuts! The donut flavor changes every week and I think that’s just amazing.

Subculture Coffee // 123 E Atlantic Ave.

When I need a quick pick-me-up, Subculture Coffee is where I’m heading. New to Atlantic Avenue, Subculture started their roasting roots in West Palm Beach. I’ve tried quite a few items at Subculture, but I must say that my favorites are the good old iced coffee, the latte with almond milk, and then Alchemy Juice Co.’s (which they stock in their cooler) Stinger shot & Amazeballs – my favorite little snack combination! Their little patio is the perfect place to sip + snack.

Park Tavern // 32 SE 2nd Ave.

I really enjoy Park Tavern for dinner too, but brunch always wins. Anywhere that serves pork belly for breakfast steals my heart. Park Tavern changes their menu often also, but right now I’m loving their Bahn Mi Hash, consisting of sweet chile pork belly, potatoes, shishito peppers, avocado, and fried eggs alongside Texas toast. I don’t understand why restaurants serve pork belly that isn’t crispy – Park Tavern does it right. As always, don’t skip the donuts – it would be a sin!

Lunch + Such

Rack’s Fish House + Oyster Bar // 5 SE 2nd Ave.

When I want a light (and not overly caloric) lunch, I think of Rack’s. I actually think this is the best Rack’s location, although I haven’t tried Fat Rooster yet (gasp!). I always walk into Rack’s Fish House + Oyster Bar wanting the Conch Ceviche with red onion, aji amarillo, & sweet potato, so that’s usually what I’m ordering – alongside a crisp glass of white wine.

Shaffer’s Tea Room // 14 S Swinton Ave.

Tucked away and pretty obscure from even the most seasoned Delray veteran, Shaffer’s Tea Room is truly a ‘hidden’ gem! After seeing this spot pop up on my Instagram and Facebook feeds from time to time, I knew I had to check it out since it seemed like my cup of tea (see what I did there?). Shaffer’s is located in what appears to be a colorfully decorated house right off Swinton Ave, less than a block south of Atlantic. When you walk in, you can’t help but feel like you’ve entered the pages of Alice in Wonderland. Brightly hued furniture is situated around a ‘living room’ set up, with a bar where you can order in the back (they also have some lite bites and some delicious looking baked goods!). With over 100 teas to choose from, the decision isn’t easy – but luckily you can mix and match the flavors and types of tea to get the perfect concoction customized just for you! One of my favorite combinations is the Happy Buddha mixed with the Renew over a little bit of ice – a not-too-sweet tropical flavor that helps refresh & renew you from the inside out. When the weather cools off a bit, I can’t wait to sit back & relax with a book and another Shaffer’s creation on their patio!

Dinner + Drinks

3rd + 3rd // 301 NE 3rd Ave.

I really can’t say enough amazing things about 3rd & 3rd Delray – it’s just one of those spots that you NEED to try for yourself if you haven’t already. Chef Jessie Steele changes the menu every day – YES, EVERY SINGLE DAY! And his innovative menu hits the mark every time, which I can imagine is no easy task! The atmosphere is typical Delray hangout-ish (just makin’ up words over here!) – a little dark and mysterious inside, with a big wrap-around bar. They have a stage at one end for live music (if you’re into that) and some of the friendliest staff I’ve come across – our bartender remembered my name (Anika is a tough one to remember!) and it’s the little details like that that make a difference. On our table for the night was the Warm Veggie Jar which was served with grilled bread (I’m really obsessed with grilled bread!), the Steak and Farro ‘Fried Rice’ that was served with a delicious miso cashew butter, and the Local Grouper with sweet potato baba ghanoush and grilled zucchini – HOLY MOLY. This was one of the best meals I had had in a long while. I’ve been daydreaming of that fried rice ever since.

The Grove // 187 NE 2nd Ave.

The Grove is on my list because I have a thing for restaurants that really incorporate seasonality into their menu – and then make it incredible. First of all, I think The Grove is so visually appealing – it sometimes doesn’t even look like Florida. The entire atmosphere just feels “intimate.” Of course their menu changes due to the changing of the seasons and their locally curated ingredients, so it’s hard to recommend specific dishes, but their pasta creations are fresh scrumptious perfection (if they have the Brioche Crusted Chicken, get that too!). Their dishes are special – not your typical everyday menu, and that’s what I love. If you have a sweet tooth like me, order the monkey bread – it’s heavenly, sticky, delicious, and the perfect ending to a wonderful meal.

Brulé Bistro // 200 NE 2nd Ave. #108

Brulé Bistro is a local favorite and a long-standing front runner of mine. Situated in Pineapple Grove, Brulé is off the beaten path, but never not full of happy winers & diners! Brulé is open for lunch, happy hour, and dinner, with seating both inside and outside and an awesome menu that’ll leave you wanting to try one of everything. This is one of those spots that perfect for date night or GNO (hello cocktail menu!). Some of my favorites are the Seared Tuna Poke with basil oil and toasted macadamias, the Prince Edward Island Mussels with red curry, & the Seared Diver Scallops topped with a fried quail egg. Find an adventurous friend and share a bunch of dishes – that way you can try a little of everything!

Delray Beach has such a well-rounded food scene, gone are the days where you HAD to drive an hour to Miami for a decent meal. Stayed tuned as I continue my “Eat Local” series, who knows where I’ll end up next! Now that you’ve had a chance to read about my local favorites – what are some of yours?

C H E E R S // M + M

August 3, 2015

Travel

Noshing in NOLA

If you’ve ever been to New Orleans, you’ll understand when I say that it’s not just a location, but truly a way of life. Bursting at its seams with a cultural past, bright and whimsical architecture, harmonious jazz at every corner, and of course some of the country’s (maybe even the world’s!) best dishes, New Orleans is a must for all of your bucket lists. ‘The Big Easy’ is eclectic, vibrant, and almost never silent – making it one of the least boring places I’ve ever visited. Follow along for my foodie guide of New Orleans…

Breakfast + Brunch

District Donuts, Sliders, & Brew // 2209 Magazine Street

If you know me at all, even if it’s just from my Instagram page, you know donuts are my jam. No matter where I am in the world, I WILL find the best donut that location has to offer. In New Orleans, that title goes hands-down to District. Not only are their donuts absolutely delicious, but their flavors change every single day – and who doesn’t love that element of surprise?! If you’re feeling savory, try some of their other breakfast items – I had a pork belly breakfast taco that was ahhh-maze-ing.

After you’re done chowing down your donuts (yes plural because you won’t be able to choose just one), walk, browse, & shop along Magazine Street. Home to some of the cutest boutiques and antique shops all clustered conveniently together, you won’t want to miss it.

Atchafalaya // 901 Louisiana Avenue

if you’re looking for more of a brunchy (that’s a word, isn’t it?) atmosphere, head to Atchafalaya. While it’s definitely a cab ride away from the French Quarter, it’s worth it just to get away from the chaos for a little bit – especially for a great meal. Their brunch menu is full of Louisiana inspired items, but most have their own interesting twist. I would highly recommend the ‘Duck Hash,’ which consists of poached eggs, duck confit, blackberries, & mango, smothered in hollandaise & bacon vinaigrette (what’s a diet?). Savory & sweet – the perfect combination. Don’t skip the coffee – it’s GOOD.

Lunch

Killer Po’Boys // 811 Conti Street {Erin Rose Bar}

You will get lost finding this place. Don’t give up. It is worth every mile walked, every corner turned, every frustrating feeling you have towards your iPhone map. Killer Po’Boys is such a MUST when visiting New Orleans, I can’t reiterate that enough. It’s location is strange – in the wayyy back of a bar in a small square dark room. Their menu is small and consists only of about five different po’boy sandwiches. I had the Seared Gulf Shrimp Po’Boy and I wish I would’ve savored every bite a little bit longer. It was served banh mi style and the flavors were so on point. This place should be on every foodie’s list!

Acme Oyster House // 724 Iberville Street

Normally I don’t recommend overly-touristy spots, because well, they usually suck to be honest. But when you have a hankering for oysters in a city that’s really well known for their oysters, you just have to go for it. Acme Oyster House proved my theory wrong! Despite the line out front, the oysters were phenom. And fresh. They’re known for their chargrilled oysters, but I had to go for the steamed and chilled – it was super hot outside. Go for either, or both.

Dinner

August // 301 Tchoupitoulas Street

This was one of the best meals I’ve EVER had. John Besh has quite the reputation in New Orleans, and for very good reason – his food is to die for. Restaurant August is situated on a street that I still can’t quite pronounce, outside of the hustle & bustle of the quarter. Definitely make a reservation in advance because I would hate to see you miss it. August offers a degustation menu (with optional wine pairing) or you can order a la carte. I wasn’t starving, so we ordered off the menu. What to order, you ask?

Start with the salad of brûléed goat cheese and strawberry and prepare to be mesmerized. It’s crazy to think that just a salad can mesmerize you, but trust me and you’ll see.
For your next course, order the handmade potato gnocchi tossed with blue crab and black truffle – what couldn’t be amazing about that?
As your main dish, go for the Wagyu hangar steak with sesame, kimchi, & cured yard egg – WOW, just wow.
As stuffed as you are, you better save a teensy bit of room for dessert – the lemon soufflé. You’re welcome.

The pictures don’t do August justice – it’s very romantic and dark inside!

Cochon // 930 Tchoupitoulas Street

Cochon was recommended to me by so many people when I said I was visiting New Orleans, that I knew I had to go or I would regret it. Cochon has an awesome vibe, and a menu to match. Their cocktail menu is pretty enticing – I would recommend imbibing in the ‘hey, jack’ (chinaco tequila, pama liqueur, jalapeno, tarragon, lime juice, & ginger beer) or a bourbon flight if you’re feeling adventurous. Speaking of adventurous, this is where we decided to go all out and try some interesting flavors and textures we’re not used to.

We started with the fried alligator with chili garlic mayonnaise. If you’ve never tried alligator, there might not be a better place to try it. Alligator has the texture of calamari and the flavor of chicken, a very cool combination!
Next up – the mixed green salad with fried cheese, hard boiled egg & pickled radish. Pickled anything usually sells me.
For the main course, the rabbit & dumplings won the vote. This dish is served similar to a pot-pie of sorts – stewy, hot, and topped with biscuit-y goodness. Southern comfort in all its glory.

We decided to keep the night going with some true New Orleans pralines from the French Quarter. I may have taken a bunch home, and they may all be gone now – just saying!

New Orleans has it all – incredible food, interesting people, & a lot to explore. It isn’t all raging drunken fools throwing beads on Bourbon Street (although that is GREAT people watching) – it’s so much more. I hope one day you enjoy New Orleans as much as I did! Cheers!

May 26, 2015

Travel

Georgia on My Mind: Atlanta

Last weekend I traveled to Atlanta, Georgia and was blown away by its beauty (Atlanta goes from city to woodsy in a heartbeat!) and mostly by the utter fact that i didn’t have a single bad, or even mediocre, meal! Georgia is a new foodie favorite for me and I’m excited to share my Atlanta hall of fame with you. Continue Reading

February 7, 2015

Travel

New York City

New York City is the ConcrEAT Jungle.

The city that never sleeps is what foodie dreams are made of. Any type of food you could ever possibly imagine is available in the ‘Big Apple.’ From Soho to Midtown and through the villages, you can pretty much find anything you want, anytime of the day. Next time you’re in NYC, add the following five foodie havens to your list. Be sure to come with an empty stomach and a full wallet – and don’t blame me if you leave with the opposite!

January 16, 2015

Travel

The Epcot International Food + Wine [+ Waiting in Line!] Festival

Let’s just be honest here.. Epcot is Disney World for grown-ups.

When I was a kid, a trip to Epcot was almost as bad as a trip to the pediatrician. I much preferred the bewitchment of the Magic Kingdom and the retro streets of the park formerly known as MGM, even though I was too small for the best rides. Epcot was just “too boring” and “too educational” to have fun for my seven-year old self.
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November 10, 2014

Travel

Whirlwind Through the Windy City

Chicago in a day. A nearly impossible task. With some determination and a big appetite, I made it happen.

Since time was of the essence, location was key. The Park Hyatt Chicago on the Magnificent Mile (Michigan Ave.) was our home for the weekend and I couldn’t have asked for more. Perfection! The view was everything. Our room was large with a bench at the window that overlooked the city and Lake Michigan. And any hotel that offers mid-day snacks and water, tea, and coffee is good in my book!
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October 26, 2014