Entries Tagged 'Resturants' ↓

Indulgent five-course meals are easy to come by in New York City. But one that’s nutritious, delicious and under 1,000 calories? Virtually unheard of. What seems too good to be true is actually the formula behind the seasonal tasting menu that recently debuted at Michelin starred restaurant, Rouge Tomate. Executive Chef Jeremy Bearman presents a multi-course menu that features decadent ingredients (think oysters, caviar, squab, lobster), yet delivers on its low-calorie promise and also supplies 40% of your daily nutritional requirements.

By revolutionizing the multi-course dining experience, Rouge Tomate makes it possible to enjoy a substantial, flavorful meal without sacrificing nutrition. And who says you can’t have it all? - Clean Plates.com

Cafe Gratitude has become one of my favorite stomping grounds for lunches with friends. Terrifying as it might sound their food is 100% organic vegan specializing in gourmet raw and cooked cuisines, but don’t let that scare you away. Some of my favorite dishes include “I am Ecstatic” (Miso Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts)”I am Fortified” (Quinoa with Roasted Vegetables) and “I am Transformed” (Vegan Tacos). All of their cafes create gourmet dishes with organic produce from their very own farm in Vacaville, California (Be Love Farm). Cafe Gratitude honors the earth, promotes consciousness and sustainability for both our well being. I suggest arriving with patience as parking can be a headache and the wait for a table can be quite lengthy!- Taryn Cox for THE WIFE

1 Swedish chef +
2 spoiled goats +
1 fat pig +
23 fancy footed chickens +
2 rescue dogs +
small vineyard +
300 raspberry bushes +
36 fruit trees +
vegetable gardens +
28 loud peacocks +
the most beautiful beach=

Obviously: Organic. Whole wheat almost always. Lots of veggies, and whole grains. Here in the bu we raise free range, fancy, feather footed chickens, who all have names, but we still eat chicken, just really super small portions of it. Ok, we have a pig too, who is super cute, super hungry, super fat, but, shh, dont tell BOB. we still eat pork. Prosciutto, bacon, salami, that stuff is just too super delicious to give up. Grew up fishing, love seafood, but lets not deplete our treasures from the sea, our portions are small of sustainable seafood only. I dont have any cows and I dont eat read meat. But maybe just once in a blue moon, here on the farm we grill a steak for our guests.

Nothing low fat or non fat, cause nothing makes you fatter than eating fat free.This is a fact. Eat the real thing, or dont eat it at all. No fake food. Margarine, veggie butter, sugar substitues? What is that stuff? If you dont know how to make it, or where it comes from, dont eat it. Dont buy it.

Introducing Jeffery Cerciello’s FarmShop (Opened in Late 2010). Jeffrey Cerciello spent 10 years as the culinary director of Thomas Keller Restaurant Group and is the key “ingredient” to Farm Shop. “Chef Joshua Drew and pastry chef Brittney Turnquist are on board to do the menu, market offerings, and catering. Drew hails from upstate, specifically Bouchon and Ad Hoc, where he was the senior sous chef. Turnquist also comes from the Keller family, having worked with Drew at Bouchon. With Cerciello at the helm of this ship, it’s like a Keller restaurant cousin!”

Eventually, Farm Shop will feature a butcher, cured meats, larder, wine and cheese shop, fresh fruit stand, prepared food section and artesanal shops with gift items i.e kitchenwares, linens, tabletop wares. The space is family friendly with a large communal table in the center, but it is also suitable for couples and those looking for very good food. For now Farm shop is open for breakfast, lunch and a take out bakery (pastries and coffee photographed above). In the future there are plans to open for dinner with an Ad-Hoc type of menu featuring family-style dinners with wine and beer.

The key to Farm Shop is the the high-quality of the best ingredients, the excellent execution done by first class chefs, the friendly, knowledgeable service staff and an ambiance that will return the Country Mart to its glory days. I can’t think of a higher recommendation. - Chowhound

Let me introduce you to Fonuts… The most tasty doughnuts I have ever had! Four-star pastry chef Waylynn Lucas (Jose Andres’ Bazaar, Patina) and pal Nancy Truman just opened the West Hollywood doughnut shop last week with rave reviews. The fluffy confections are baked fresh daily using quality ingredients, un fried and vegan or both vegan and gluten-free. So far I have yet to try a flavor I haven’t gone weak in the knees for, but lookout for my favorites: Strawberry Buttermilk, Maple Bacon and The Hawaiian Fōnut filled with coconut custard and sprinkled with li hing mui powder. To wash it down grab a cup of organic milk or Lamill coffee, I recommend the Chai Latte. I suggest going first thing when they open at 9:00 as they’ve been selling out of most flavors before noon. - Taryn Cox for THE WIFE.

Flavors include: Glazed, Banana Chocolate*, Chocolate Hazelnut*, Peach**, Lemon**, Strawberry Buttermilk, Rosemary Olive Oil, Peanut Butter & Jelly, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Hawaiian, Chorizo Cheddar, Rum, Cinnamon Sugar (*Wheat/Gluten Free & ** Wheat/Gluten Free & Vegan)

I know there have been quite a few Bouchon postings in the last week, but this one takes the cake! In honor of Thomas Keller’s legendary Ad Hoc crispy flavorful fried chicken, Bouchon decided to try a home style Ad Hoc Fried Chicken night this past June. And with it’s huge popularity and selling out every reservation in just 90 minutes… It’s BACK…Monday, August 29th. The $36.00 per person set menu is served family style with fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, Biscuits and gravy, collard greens and berry cobbler for dessert. Since reservations book up fast, you can also make the famed Ad Hoc fried chicken from the comfort of your own home. Click Here - Taryn Cox for THE WIFE.

Just located off the Mr. C Hotel driveway is Beverly Hill’s new favored classic restaurant. Upon first walking into the beautifully decorated Mr. C I was immediately greeted by the most well dressed and charming Maitre d’, Florian. After showing us to our table under a lavish Venetian chandelier, I noticed a similar ambiance to the restaurants counterpart, Cipriani downtown in New York. The menu is also inspired by Italian classics from the Cipriani menu alongside grilled specialties and pizzas. Our waiter Marco was perfectly skilled and attentive with a friendly approach to flawless costumer service. Every suggestion made was sublime from the prosciutto di parma to the duck ragu and the famed vanilla meringue cake that left Chelsea and I speechless. Perfect for date night, so make reservations now!

Thomas Keller’s long anticipated Bouchon Bakery is set to open Wednesday in Beverly Hills. Bouchon Bakery is on the ground floor of the building that houses Bouchon Bistro. It’s an intimate spot that looks like a classic neighborhood boulangerie—though the neighborhood in question is now a bit west of Paris. The Bakery will offer traditional croissants (classic, chocolate and fruit-filled); sticky buns; muffins (banana nut or blueberry); tarts (chocolate ganache or lemon); cookies (Thomas Keller Oreo); chocolate bouchons; macarons; freshly baked bread; and sandwiches, salads and packaged goods. Bouchon Bakery is located at the first floor lobby of Bouchon Bistro in the Beverly Hills Garden Building between Beverly and Canon Drive.

Bouchon Bakery in Beverly Hills
235 North Canon Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310.271.9980

Known for French Laundry in Napa Valley, Thomas Keller is well-versed in the art of the picnic. Enter the new Bouchon Picnic Baskets to Go, which offer a variety of pre-selected delectable dishes. They are perfect to pick up for a night out at the Hollywood Bowl or a day on the beach. These baskets offer a range of sandwiches, salads, and decadent desserts. Choose from two French inspired 3 course picnic baskets for 2 people ($65.00 or $115.00) with add on all a carte options. Located in Beverly Hills, Bouchon is open daily from 11:30am - 12:00pm. - Taryn Cox for THE WIFE.

There’s coffee and there’s coffee and there is Caffe Luxxe. If your a West sider in Los Angeles chances are your very familiar with this coffee haven. Caffe Luxxe has re-introduced the art of coffee with their craftsmanship, artistic inspiration, traditional proportions and drinking temperature. They uses Northern Italian style espresso that offers rich taste that is never bitter or burnt. Their Coffee beans are ground fresh at the time of order and the final touch is the barista’s signature milk foam art. My Favorite is there Cafe Caremello… Perfect to indulge in on any given morning! - Taryn Cox for THE WIFE.

Anytime between the hours of 10:00 am and 3:00 pm on a Saturday or Sunday you should be brunching at Everleigh. Everleigh just jumped to my top 3 breakfast spots in LA… Following Huckleberry and Tavern. Whether your sitting in their enchanting front garden or their darling back patio, it’s a wonderful way to spend your morning sipping on a fresh squeezed juice or smoothie. Be sure to kick off your breakfast with banana bread with lemon and clove mascarpone and honey or the avocado toast. Other popular main dishes include the corned beef and scotch egg “bubble and squeak,” soft scrambled eggs with oak-smoked salmon and chervil hollandaise or my personal favorite the spelt pancakes with maple whipped ricotta and apricots with nutmeg maple syrup (photographed above). Literally the best pancakes I have ever had in my lifetime… I highly recommend them! Happy Brunching!. - Taryn Cox for THE WIFE.

The well known restaurant, Orso, has been replaced with Seth MacPherson’s phenomenal creation il Covo! I first ventured to the newly re-constructed restaurant two weeks ago for Father’s day dinner. Chef, Roberto Maggioni, has created the most exquisite cuisine to rival the Italian favorite, Giorgio Baldi. Look for sensational specials like seasonal truffles, as well as specialty grilled meats, Ossobuco and delicate seafood dishes like grilled Branzino complimented by a wonderful regional wine list. A must order for dessert is the Panna Cotta with Aged Balsamic Syrup… My favorite! When calling for a reservation be sure to book on the private patio. - Taryn Cox for THE WIFE.

I was thrilled when Thedailymeal.Com interviewed me on my top favorite restaurants in Los Angeles.

“Everything from tips on where to dine and drink in Los Angeles by Taryn Cox, lifestyle expert and blogger. Taryn is a domestic expert based in LA, who has spent recent years as a lifestyle consultant refining and furnishing the lives of many A-list celebrities and she is also the founder of THE WIFE, a blog to reawaken the soul and romanticism of ‘The Wife.’”

Los Angeles has a reputation for fantastic weather and an epic spread of land, but rarely do you get to experience the two unadulterated while nursing a cocktail. At the Yamashiro Farmers Market, however, every Thursday atop a peak in the Hollywood Hills, visitors can take in Los Angeles on a hot night with sweeping views of the sparkling grid, along with a few other California specialties: fresh produce and artisanal prepared foods, plus our greatest export alongside Hollywood — wine.

Set in the parking lot outside Yamashiro, the majestic CalAsian restaurant, patrons can stroll from booth to booth, sampling everything from Nicholas Family Farms’ fresh juices such as mandarin and grapefruit, to buying ripe roses from Eufloria, a sixth-generation flower-farming business. There are also food trucks, Last week was the Cool Haus and Heirloom Catering Trucks. You can purchase your own wine (in moderation, please) from a variety California vineyards (along with some French and Italian pours).

But maybe most popular of all is the Yamashiro Grill stand, which hawks street tacos spilling over with braised short ribs, hoisin duck confit (My Favorite) or miso-sake-marinated black cod, with sides such as wasabi guacamole and ginger salsa.

Yamashiro Farmers Market started back in March 2010 and has been a hit ever since with the locals. So next Thursday evening grab the family and come enjoy the sweeping city views, shop for your weekly produce and grab dinner while enjoying some music! - LA Times

When you first walk into Hatfield’s on any given evening immediately you see a window into every restaurants soul… It’s kitchen. Where every cook is diligently tending to their task. I attended dinner here for Easter Supper and was completely blown away, it was one of the best meals I’ve had in LA since Fig and Olive. Everything we order is an explosion of perfection and excitment. Although this restaurant can get pricey…It’s worth every penny spent! I opt for their Tasting Menu Starting at $59.00, Perfect for Date night with your Husband. Favorites of mine from their market fresh menu were: The beet and endive salad, The seared diver scallops, and The pan roasted duck breast. Don’t forget to order dessert! - Taryn Cox for THE WIFE.

PRESSED JUICERY was born out of the idea that in order to find fulfillment and balance each day, modern people need to be armed with a fresh set of tools that are simple, convenient, and tailored to their hectic schedules. We believe that everyone is entitled to live their best lives, but in order for this to happen, we need to get back to our roots. While the benefits of juicing are endless, we aim to cut through the confusion and condescension of so many health trends and get to the point: our bodies require vital nutrients to function at their optimal levels, and the quickest and most natural way to get them is through fresh juice.

At PRESSED their organic juices are pressed daily, and personalized to your lifestyle, providing you with the option to hop online and order individual bottles. They are a great way to keep nutritious food on hand for your family or as post-workout fuel. Or Try Pressed Juicery’s signature cleanse designed to help you detox in a simple, streamlined manner that won’t get in the way of your everyday life. Cleanses consist of 6 fresh juices that are delivered to your doorstep each morning and will sustain you throughout the day in place of meals. Have time to stop for Juice? Visit their new store front in Brentwood. (Perfect after a class at Bar Method or Maha Yoga)

The Ramos House Café is situated in the heart of the Los Rios Historical District in San Juan Capistrano. It is the oldest remaining residential street in California, Los Rios dates back to 1794 when about 40 adobe structures were constructed to house soldiers and workers overseeing construction of the Mission. The Ramos House, built in 1881, is representative of the board and batten homes built during this time. Originally built by the Aguilar Family, the house was the long time residence of the Ramos Family, one of San Juan Capistrano’s oldest families.

The idea of the Ramos House Café is simple. As in the old days, the owner lives and works at the house. The wines are kept in the cellar, the herbs are grown in the garden and the ice cream is turned out back. The menu is seasonal and can change daily.

The Ramos House specializes in Contemporary American Cuisine with an obvious tilt toward the South. Current specialties include: Potato, Corn & Buttermilk Crab Cakes w/ Field Greens & Smoked Chili Remoulade; Mac ‘n Cheese w/ Smoked Chicken & Asparagus; Southern Fried Chicken Salad w/ Buttermilk Dressing; Scotch Quail Eggs; and Warm Rock Shrimp Bread Pudding. Dessert selections include Warm Banana Berry Shortcake, Buttermilk Pie and a variety of Home Turned Ice Creams.

On Saturday & Sunday, the Café offers a $35.00 per person brunch that is fantastic! The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday from 8:30AM to 3:00PM. Seating is ONLY outside on the patio, so it is suggested to go on a warm sunny day, If your feeling adventurous they do have plenty of heaters and offer individual blankets.

The Ramos House Cafe
31752 Los Rios Street,
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

www.RamosHouse.Com

Book dinner at Fig & Olive a sprawling new European villa on Melrose place. You’ll find 8,000 square feet of branzino, scallops and olive oil (it’s used instead of butter), so this is where you’ll want to book your next dinner party for up to 300 of your favorite expats. (New Yorkers have been doing this for years. There are three Figs in Manhattan, but this is the first one outside New York State.)

Upon entering, you’ll see a long marble bar disappearing into the horizon—start here with a bite of Zucchini Carpaccio and a Custom Dirty Martini, with three types of olives and brines to choose from. (Also: vodka.) Then you’re ready feast at the 50-foot communal table. Or under the olive tree in the towering stucco dining room. Or out on the enclosed patio, scented with rosemary plants (and covered by a magically disappearing ceiling). Once dinner’s wrapping up head to the balcony champagne bar. That’s where your nightcap could entail a Piscine (iced bubbly with strawberries) or a Fig Mojito. - UrbanDaddy.Com

Any WIFE who runs a house, raises children and tries to make time for herself must be spinning like a top. With grocery shopping always on the to do list and an empty stomach to feed on the go, I’ve recently discovered the Juice Bar at Whole Foods Market. I’ve been extremely fond of the “Sweet Green Garden” smoothie. It’s a mix blend of Spinach, Kale, Bananas, Strawberries, Ice and Agave, which sounds gross but tastes pleasantly sweet. So next time you find your energy running low while picking up ingredients for tonight’s dinner be sure to pick up a cup of healthy goodness. 20 Ounce Smoothie $6.99

At the moment I’m trying to find a way to San Francisco just to feed my craving for my favorite food…Donuts! Dynamo Donuts serves up the most creative flavors like: Meyer Lemon Huckleberry, Molasses Guinness Pear, Banana De Leche, Chocolate Rose Geranium Hazelnut, Strawberry Earl Grey, Pumpkin Chocolate Chip, Caramel De Sel, Candied Orange Blossom and their famous Bacon Maple Apple

Dynamo uses Clover Organic Milk for it’s coffee and donuts. Each donut utilizes organic, sustainable, and local ingredients whenever possible. They are always handmade daily by Sara and her dedicated staff. We offer a rotating selection of 7 to 10 donut flavors per day so quality and freshness of ingredients can be guaranteed. EVERYDAY is Bacon Donut Day!!!

2760 24th Street
San Francisco, CA 94110
(415) 920-1978
7am - 5pm Tuesday – Saturday
9am - 4pm Sundays
CLOSED MONDAYS

www.DynamoDonut.com

I recently Discovered Beverly Hills Juice Company through a friend and have been going daily for the most delicious fresh pressed juice. I’m addicted to “The Big Ten” (Carrot, Beet, Celery, Kale, Spinach and Parsley) but since recently getting sick have been getting Apple Lemon Double Ginger, which was a terrific remedy. A bottle of juice will run you around 5.00 and is worth every penny.

In his quest to make the most nutritionally beneficial juice, David Otto became versed in the advantages of juicing with a hydraulic press. To press juice, fruits or vegetables are first ground into a fine pulp, wrapped in cloth bags, and then squeezed at a very high pressure by the hydraulic press. Compared to other methods of juice extraction, pressed juice has a higher nutritional content: more vitamins, more minerals, and more amino acids. Additionally, pressed juice is exposed to a minimal amount of oxidation, and therefore maintains a shelf life of a few days instead of minutes. Beverly Hills Juice presses and bottles batches of juice every morning, making pressed juice available for customers to pickup each day.

Beverly Hills Juice supports local, organic agriculture. They adapt their menu to the seasons and source most of their ingredients from local farms. They purchase the majority of our produce at farmer’s markets, where the average farmer travels 150 miles to bring her crop to market. Coconuts, bananas, ginger and cinnamon are not typically grown in California, and are sourced from organic suppliers.

Since 1975, Beverly Hills Juice has operated under a strong ethical code that promotes a healthy and balanced way of life. Their appreciation and gratitude for the earth is reflected in everything that they do. Beverly Hills Juice continually searches for the best practices that will limit their environmental impact, decrease their use of petroleum-based products, and contribute to the regeneration of the earth’s polluted resources. Some of their sustainable business practices include: Cups and Straws made from Sugar Cane Fiber, They do use bags to encourage customers to bring their own, all deliveries are made with a volkswagen TDI clean diesel car, all paper used is 100 recycled processed chlorine free and all waste generated is commercially composted.

All our food comes straight from our farms: our meat and poultry, fruit and veg from our market garden, bread from our bakery: and cheese, milk and yoghurt from our creamery. To make our soups and meals, our chefs use only the freshest ingredients, combined with simple techniques to bring out the natural flavours of our seasonal, organic produce.

When we don’t make a product on our farm, we source from artisan suppliers who share our commitment to quality and sustainability and who produce items to our recipes. We are fully transparent in that you can visit our farm to see for yourself how our animals are kept, where our vegetables are grown and how our food is produced.

Organic farming means that food is produced the way nature intended; free from GM, artificial additives, fertilisers, growth promotors and herdicides. At Daylesford, we firmly believe that organic farming is better for our health, our animals and the environment - and it always tastes better.

Our farmshop and café on Westbourne Grove is located at the heart of the Notting Hill community. The first thing you’ll notice is the fresh, seasonal produce delivered daily from our farms market garden, artisan cheese and breads from our creamery and bakery, organic meats from our animals - serviced by a real butcher; everything you need for a good value, fresh weekly shop. Our organic café is a place to eat, drink and relax with friends and family or take-away for lunch or to take home as part of your, good, fresh weekly shop.

Farmshop & Café, Pimlico
44B Pimlico Road, London SW1W 8LP
Telephone 020 7881 8060

Farmshop & Café, Notting Hill
208-212 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill, London W11 2RH
Telephone 020 7313 8050

www.DaylesfordOrganic.Com

Everyday I receive countless emails, flyers and the like devoted to nothing but things for kids to do in New York City. I have been to the cat circus, a bubble extravaganza, a number of “favorite tv character” come to life revues and anything within a ten mile radius that you can put a li’l in front of. All well intentioned, some entertaining, a few just plain out there. I realized that all this activity was a search to connect with my kids and maybe that was simpler than I realized. Our best moments always seemed borne of slowing down, of interaction, of noticing them.

Moomah was created to give parents, children and caregivers that opportunity. We wanted the space to be inviting and to nurture creative stimulation not over-stimulation. The color palette was inspired by nature and the seasons. You won’t find wacky clowns with oversized eyes and primary colors and you won’t be forced to listen to “kids music”. Moomah is a space where both parents and kids can bond over a great song, a fun project or new treat. A place where you can just be together.

It’s time, finally, to pause, slow down and lower the volume. And remember that in a quiet moment, a child can discover a world of delight. It’s in your smile, a word of praise, a quirky little rhyme, a silly song, their own personal fairy tale. At Moomah our serene space, the music we play, our games and classes, the food we prepare, indeed everything we do is designed to bring you and your child closer together. To encourage conversation, reflection, sharing and careful attention. And to understand that years from now, you will cherish this intimate moment.

Toys and craft kits, all informed by the palette of patterns, forms, hues and elements found in nature, will delight and intrigue them. Exploring earth-born objects – pebbles, feathers, seashells, wool, tree bark, sand – they’ll question the why and how and where did they come from, learning of an unbroken cycle that connects each object to them, to their place on the planet, to you and to everyone they meet. Puzzles and storybooks, filled with imagery of exotic menageries, farm and woodland animals, intriguing objects, and antique curiosities, help them to daydream and discover. They can take a safari deep into their imagination, or learn something new about a favorite pet.

Moomah serves it up yummy and wholesome, for kids and grown-ups. Delicious pastries, fair trade coffee and teas, savory meals, snacks, sweet treats and finger food, all made from the finest natural ingredients and sourced from local and organic farms, delight the senses and encourage little ones to taste something new. And we’ll even show them how proud we are of them for trying.

At Moomah, art materials and projects illuminate universal themes: the five senses, the seasons, the animal kingdom, the body, mythical creatures. Your child is given the freedom to explore, to trust their impulses and admire the beauty of their expression. You learn the full sum of how their feelings and thoughts were brought to shape, and brought to life in their artwork. In this way, their artwork becomes the story of their emerging self and development, a document of that particular moment, and a treasured keepsake. You and your child can create a world filled with promise and possibility.

I just discovered this gem of a restaurant in Brentwood Monday evening. After the most delicious 3 courses, I highly recommend this for weekend brunches and cozy dinner dates. When making your reservation request to sit in the atrium, Its the most beautifully decorated dinning room (You’ll feel as if you just stepped into a Nancy Meyers film) Other bonuses to look forward to at Tarven: Live jazz music on the last Monday of every month and Pre -packed picnic boxes (See Below) for a romantic afternoon or evening out at the Hollywood Bowl or Cinespa. - Taryn Cox for THE WIFE.

Tavern Restaurant and Larder

11648 San Vicente Boulevard

Brentwood, California 90049

TarvernLa.Com

Enjoy cupcakes brings the bakery to your party, wedding, bridal shower, baby shower, holiday gala, retreat, or corporate event! Guest will ENJOY treats served out of an adorable restored vintage Shasta trailer…twinkling lights, a festive canopy & a wafting sweet smell will make your event unique & unforgettable. Or they can make & deliver desserts without the trailer! Give them a call to discuss your special day.

Do you have a favorite flavor, color, scent, theme, or drink? Let them incorporate that into custom desserts especially for you & your guests - or choose from our extensive menu. Their catering trailer services the entire Santa Ynez Valley & Santa Barbara County! If you dont live in the area Enjoy Cupcakes can ship overnight a tastey selection of treats.

Chocolate Blackberry Syrah

Chocolate, syrah infused cake, filled with dark chocolate Belgium fudge, topped with blackberry frosting and a wine soaked blackberry that’s rolled in sugar crystals

Tart Ginger Lime Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake layered with buttery, ginger crust, filled with lime curd, topped with chardonnay frosting, & sugared lime zest

Citrus Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc soaked cake, with fresh grapefruit, lemon curd center and frosted with a wine, cream cheese frosting that’s speckled with citrus zest and topped with wine soaked sugar crystals

Cherry Vanilla Merlot

Merlot vanilla cake, soaked with cherry puree, vanilla cream filling, topped with vanilla frosting and a merlot soaked cherry

Pomegranate Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake with a meyer lemon pudding filling, cream cheese frosting, topped with pomegranate seeds, lemon zest & candy pink pearls

Caramel Pinot

Pinot cocoa cake with a gooey caramel filling, topped with a swirled caramel cream cheese frosting

Blueberry Lemon Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake, with a creamy meyer lemon filling, topped with blueberry cream cheese frosting and a wine soaked blueberry

Olallie Berry Rosé

Rosé infused cake, with a creamy olallie berry core, topped with fresh olallie berry frosting

Pomegranate Mango Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake, with a pomegranate filling, topped with mango frosting & pom seeds

Grapefruit Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake, filled with grapefruit curd, topped with grapefruit chardonnay frosting and a puddle of honey & fresh squeezed grapefruit juice

Vanilla Mascarpone Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake filled with a vanilla mascarpone mousse, topped with vanilla frosting

Raspberry Nectarine Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake soaked with raspberry puree, filling with vanilla pastry cream, topped with nectarine frosting and a raspberry

Pink Verveine Champagne

Bubbly champagne cake, filled with verveine infused pastry cream, topped with fresh raspberry frosting

Citrus Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake, filled with grapefruit curd, topped with mandarin orange, lemon frosting & sugared citrus zest. Finished off with a puddle of fresh lime juice

Pear Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake, with a pear filling, topped with pear frosting and pear infused sugar crystal

Cranberry Orange Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake, filled with cranberry curd, topped with blood orange frosting, a fresh cranberry & sugared orange zest

Sweet Tart Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake, with a sweet tart filling (pineapple guava curd, which tastes just like sweet tarts), topped with tart citrus frosting

Pomegranate Orange Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake, filled with pastry cream and pomegranate seeds, topped with orange frosting, more pom seeds & sugared orange zest

Pineapple Guava Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake filled with a pineapple/guava fruit wedge! Topped with a pineapple/guava frosting

Mimosa

Champagne cake, filled with orange curd, topped with champagne orange frosting & sugared orange zest

Meyer Lemon Pomegranate Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake, filled with pomegranate seeds & meyer lemon curd, topped with lemon frosting and pom seeds

Bubbly Strawberry Champagne

Champagne cake, filled with strawberry curd & topped with fresh strawberry frosting and secret surprise

Meyer Lemon Chardonnay

Chardonnay cake, filled with meyer lemon curd, topped with lemon frosting and sugared lemon zest

Raspberry Sherbet Champagne

Champagne cake, filled with meyer lemon curd, topped with vibrant pink raspberry frosting and a filled raspberry

Cadillac

Chardonnay cake, filled with lime curd, topped with grand marnier frosting and sweet & salty lime zest

Chocolate Mint Fusion

Rich chocolate cake, with a fresh mint chocolate core, topped with a fluffy cream cheese frosting, a chocolate covered mint leaf and chopped chocolate enhanced with mint and rosemary

Chocolate Caramel

Moist chocolate cupcake with gooey caramel core and topped with a lightly salted cream cheese caramel frosting and drizzled caramel

Dark & White Mocha

Rich, espresso enhanced chocolate cake with a whippy white mocha filling, topped with a creamy chocolate frosting, a dollop of white mocha cream and a dark chocolate covered espresso bean

Serious Peanut Butter Cup

Chocolate cake, filled with a creamy peanut concoction, topped with chocolate frosting & chopped salted peanuts and chocolate sauce

Chocolate, Salted Peanut Buttery, Caramel Crunch

Chocolate cake with an oozing, creamy peanut core, topped with a salted caramel frosting and finished off with chopped peanuts, Hawaiian coral sea salt and drizzled caramel

Chocolate Ginger Fusion

Rich chocolate cake, with a fresh ginger chocolate core, topped with a chocolate ginger infused frosting, ginger soaked sugar crystals and drizzled chocolate

Black & White Cheesecake

Rich chocolate cake, filled with vanilla mascarpone cheesecake, topped with chocolate frosting, & white chocolate shavings

Chocolate Boston Cream Cupcake

Chocolate cake, filled with decadent pastry cream, topped with dark chocolate glaze

Smores

Chocolate cake, layered with buttery graham cracker crumbs & dark chocolate chunks, topped with marshmallow frosting and roasted marshmallows

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Last Monday, in honor of the celebrated Gossip Girl Monday, I had friend Nicole over for dinner. Lucky me when she showed up with my newly discovered favorite cupcakes! I’ve never really been much of a cupcake girl… I not one to turn them down, but would never go out of my way to go get one. But these Chocolate decadent wonders are another story. They taste and have the consistency of real homemade cupcakes with gooey frosting. And another delightful surprise….There’s even chocolate chips in the cupcake batter! These delicious treats can be found at Froma on Melrose. They only sell chocolate chocolate chip cupcakes with chocolate or vanilla frosting. Vanilla Cupcakes are available for special order. $3.50 Each.

A few weeks ago after having tea with Cambrey Thomas, The Editor of “Detroit Girls About Town” she asked me to write an article about my guide/favorite things in Los Angeles. I was nothing short of delighted to participate. Here is the Article. -THE WIFE

DGAT had a lot of fun in Los Angeles last month, so much fun that our name almost became L. A. Girls About Town. While there, we lounged on the beach, ate at hip food trucks, and spotted David Hasselhof at The Apple Pan. We even stumbled upon a charming website called Taryn Cox The Wife. The site, run by native California girl Taryn Cox, is a guide to life as a wife. Although we’re betrothed to no one as of yet, DGAT likes her clear, practical, and decidedly stylish take on the world. In fact, we could not return to Detroit without asking Miss Taryn for her top 15 must do’s in L.A for Detroit girls. So, Detroit girls, read on. And be forewarned, this may inspire lust for a weekend jaunt to the city of Angels. - Detroit Girls About Town

Since being introduced to Umami Burger, it has turned into a weekly craving/obsession. What sets Umami Burger apart from the others is that they don’t grind the meat until you order it. Umami means flavor and taste in Japanese…. They certainly have accomplished both with the tastiest burger in Los Angeles. My favorite is the Truffle Burger with sweet potato fries.. Make sure to indulge in a Raspberry Monkey Cake for dessert!

Huckleberry, although on the Westside has been proven to be worth the distance for their delicious brunches and pastries that will transcend you straight to heaven! Don’t let the title fool you, but be sure to order the green eggs and ham for breakfast AND take a goodie bag full of sweet treats home for later. You definitely will not regret being over loaded with carbs and sugar.

Ever since taking residence at this infamous hotel for six months, it has become my favorite recommendation for anyone visiting. The rooms are like mini apartments, most equipped with kitchens and living rooms so you’ll feel right at home. And the pool is perfect for lazy Sundays. Sit in the courtyard on any balmy California evening, its enchanting to enjoy dinner or drinks with friends under the warm nights sky.

The hotel is perfect for extended stays in Los Angeles. Even if your not staying here, it’s the perfect place to meet up with friends for cocktails in their charming lobby. Cozy sofas and a toasty fireplace make up the ambiance ( similar to Mercer Hotel lobby). Their restaurant, The Hall, is lovely for enjoying dinner under twinkling lights in the courtyard.

Not only does O! Burger have delicious burgers and fries, but what make me even more excited to eat there is that the whole restaurant is eco- friendly. Everything in the restaurant is made from renewable resources that are recyclable, compostable or bio degradable. All the ingredients are 100% certified organic! Even all the ice tea and sugar they use are all fair trade products. Good food and responsibility for the environment!

Joan’s on Third has become my go to place for coffee, tea and breakfast with friends. I call it the Los Angeles version of Dean and Deluca, with counters filled with delicious food to eat in or carry out -Sweet treats like morning buns (my personal favorite) and homemade cupcakes. It is the most “at home” place with a most welcoming staff. This is the perfect recipe to get lost in a conversation with your best friend.

Although on the pricier range of restaurants, Cecconi’s is definitely worthy of splurging on a glamorous dinner out. Get all dolled up and toast your friends with champagne while dinning out on the inviting patio. Indulge on hearty portions of Southern Italian pasta and pizzas.

This is a do not skip restaurant in Los Angeles. Whether you dine at Pizzeria Mozza or Osteria Mozza, either will be an enjoyable feast. Call ahead as reservations book up fast. If you still do not have luck scoring a table, the bar at both restaurants is designed for walk in guests.

One of my favorite french inspired restaurants in Los Angeles. The ambiance is very modern Parisian chic. A Must Order dish is the braised short ribs with pommes aligot.

If you or a friend happens to have a membership, Soho House is a must for sunset dinner or drinks. With the most spectacular 360 view of Los Angeles, you’lll get lost in the twinkling lights of the city while sipping on tasty cocktails.

If you find yourself in Los Angeles and in a rush, La brea Bakery is fantastic for a quick sandwich and chips on the go.

Although located Downtown, Bottega Louie is worth the drive. The ambiance has a new york feel, with high ceilings and gorgeous male waiters serving as eye candy through out the evening. The down side is Bottega Louie does nott take reservations, but be sure to shop their market in front of the restaurant while waiting for a table. I always find great gourmet products like fig jam, macaroons and fresh flowers.

My favorite place for sweet treats like cookies, coffee and ice cream. Executive pastry chef Dave Baker has a creative knack for dreaming up unique ice cream flavors like Irish breakfast ice cream and red velvet cake batter ice cream. Also Be sure to try an Iced Chai latte, they make the chai syrup from scratch.

Larchmont Bungalow is located on the charming street of Larchmont (be sure to go on Sunday’s to walk around the Farmer’s Market) Larchmont Bungalow has prided its self on their creativity for meals. Order the red velvet pancakes or tequila french toast! You cant go wrong with anything you order, even the classics are delicious!

On any given sunny day be sure to check out The Grove. You’ll feel like your in the happiest place on earth, as its very reminiscent of Main Street in Disneyland. Charming for catching afternoon movies or shopping at stores like J Crew or Barney’s Co-op. Be sure to Wonder over to the farmers market for your choice of any food genre under the sun. My favorite are donuts from Bob’s Coffee and Doughnuts.

We’ve all visited Laduree and oh’d and ah’d over the gorgeously packed pastel macaroons, but what always sold me was the packaging not the taste. My favorite macaroons have always been from Yauatcha in London and the local patisserie ‘Paulette’ in Beverly Hills. Paulette Koumetz, the celebrated French pastry chef, that has a passion for reinventing the classic almond cookie infused with tastey ganache. Stroll into her shop just off Beverly Drive and the vivid hues of macaroons with have your mouth watering. Just one bite of my favorite Rose or Sweet Wedding Almond Macaroon and and you’ll be hooked! - THE WIFE

I discovered Larchmont Larder last year and ever since have been in love with their selection of home-style comfort foods. The larder has a similar feel to Joan’s on Third, counter tops lined with food to dine in or take out. It’s literally the perfect pantry for THE WIFE who in a panic for dinner and needs a night off from cooking. Make sure to try the meatloaf with wild mushroom gravy and the beet salad with apples and goat cheese. For those with a sweet tooth, take home a container of the vanilla bean apple sauce for dessert! - THE WIFE