Cafe Cubano Just Around The Corner
September 1, 2008
This is great; I move from Miami and at apparently the same time so does this gentlemen around the corner. Even better, he opens up a little shop and calls it “Cafe Cubano” and you guessed it, serves the most wonderful cafe cubanos and all the traditional Cuban cuisine to go with it. Yum!
My fiance loves the coffees, but only once in a while for him. He instead has found delicious enjoyment in the Malta from Hatvey- oooh, this is a good one.
They have a couple different Malta’s, I think this one is the best by far- it has the most flavor, strong and distinct which I like in a beverage. Just the smell alone is fantastic. This is a must try if you ever come across it- let me know when you do.
Okay, back to the cafe cubano- or in my case, cortadito con leche evaporado. There is nothing like a nice strong espresso brewed with sugar and then topped off with steamed evaporated milk- just a little of course, and talk about heavenly! Oh I love this drink, and finally I can begin having them again and just around the corner from where I live- how lovely is that?
He makes my favorite little pastry to have with a coffee, too- the guava and cheese pastels. It compliments it perfectly.
I would love to see walk up Cuban Cafes start spreading like the Wine Bars have been, maybe this will be the next thing. What a treat that would be. People need to love coffee again (actual coffee- don’t get me started).
Alright, I am off for a cortadito and guava and cheese. Ciao.
Ooh- a little PS, Here’s a little look of some of the other fun sodas they offer. I’m told the IronBeer tastes similar to a fruity Dr. Pepper, but I don’t know- we’ll see. We bought them to try later, I’ll let you know how it goes.
Because Who Doesn’t Love Champagne
August 12, 2008
I love the bubbly, and the Veuve Clicquot is certainly one of my favorites. I would drink it all the time when out and about at night in Miami, not to mention at home as well.
I have Veuve on my mind and a bottle being chilled. Mmm… I love it on its own as a toast to… simply having it or me- who honestly needs an excuse? It is something I like to enjoy for the sake of enjoying. And the Veuve Clicquot Rose is especially special.
Although creating an occasion is always just as delightful.
Marlene Dietrich had it right- and I like to follow in her example on the subject. One of her favorite meals was:
hot dogs and champagne
I LOVE it- simply marvelous.
And that is just it, too- you make it marvelous. And no judgment or false snobbery- it is all about finding what you like and embracing it.
Who cares what other people think? We all have our own tastes. Certainly there are rules to abide but with in those rules are so many possibilities for creativity and uniqueness. Make it your own and make it Glamorous.
Yummy Yummy And On The GO
August 2, 2008
So the other day I found myself in an unfamiliar part of town at an early hour of the day with an appetite. My Fiance and I had attended a meeting in this area (about an hour or so away from our home) and decided some food was now in order.
Then we saw the Super Target and couldn’t resist but make a little stop. If anything we could replenish some grocery items and make something when we returned home.
Then there was the display of freshly baked and still warm bread- yes, the fogged plastic and heavenly aroma.
There was no way I was going to last until home. The lovely thing was they had a demi version of the baguette- just the right amount for the two of us and a bit easier to handle than the full sized version.
A few slices of hard salami and gruyere cheese and it was the perfect yummy meal we were looking for. I’ve always loved this for breakfast, but forget about it from time to time.
When I lived in Bay Harbor Islands there was a neighborhood French Bakery that actually offered it on the menu, and I would relax at a table either alone or with a friend sipping some coffee, enjoying my meal, and watching people pass by.
Now I can do the same but on the go. I usually prefer to sit and relax but sometimes things need to be done and it can be nice to have a little bite as you walk. Kind of makes me think of Breakfast At Tiffany’s, and all the more reason to enjoy it.
The Instinct, Samsung’s Newest Beauty
June 25, 2008
Adore it, adore it, adore it. I was anxious for the phone to arrive and now that it has- it is grander than I imagined or could have hoped for.
I’ve been playing with it now for a few days (since the Thursday just before it was released), and am simply delighted with the Instinct. It works quickly and smoothly, very easy to handle and adjustable touch sensitivity settings. The GPS works so wonderfully that I returned my tomtom device- I truly think something was wrong with at least the one I had purchased. The instinct’s GPS does everything I need it to, and as an added bonus speaks the street names to you.
Internet is great, not to mention much faster than the edge network. Sprint always has had the fastest network, and it is nice to see it in well use. It notifies me of my emails along with my missed calls and other messages. The controls are simple and make it easier to navigate throughout the screen.
Now, on mine I have added a pink rubber cover for protection and for a bit of a better grip. The phone itself is very slender and a comfortable size. In my home, our black granite counter tops and nearly black wood furniture make for a quick disappearing act for any blending object- so for me it serves an extra purpose. The phone does actually comes with a black leather case which is fitted nicely and easy to use.
One of the nicest features is quite understated though: visual voicemail. What that means is you can see who called, choose what order you wish to listen to your messages- skip some entirely, pause, rewind and fast forward, or save it for later use. All done simply by the touch of the screen.
Now, it is not a smart phone so the techies may complain a bit, but its not for them. Its for everyone and its fun and functional. I am finding it to be just the luxury item I needed- not to mention making everything simpler and more enjoyable as well.
Delightfully Timeless Tiffany & Co
May 22, 2008
Its the little blue box that is always cheering me up and keeping me happy. Forever classic and beautiful, the name Tiffany & Co. brings a sparkle to the eye.
From the simple charming and cute pieces to the elaborate and significant occasion collections, every item with the name is treasured.
Maybe you have only one piece, or are nearing on your first- its that connection that is so charming and delightful. Tiffany’s has pieces that are forever treasured in history, having the smallest of pieces for yourself connects you to the greatness of the past and excites you to a greater future.
There is just something special about them that is untouchable. Its pure and loved and warm. Its quite difficult not to smile when thinking of the name alone.
Yes, I think everyone should have at least one piece from Tiffany & Co. Something to keep as a little luxury for themselves.
Even if it is just one little piece.
Glamorous Dining At Home
May 14, 2008
Fine Dining consists of simple statements defined and glamorized. Set rules and expectations, that extra care and attention to detail-being comfortable and achieving a vision.
Why cannot the same be said of the home. Maybe not every night, but once in a while its nice to recreate the dining room and set the stage for a special occasion- even if the occasion is simply the desire of making it one.
Set the table, light some candles, maybe bring in some flowers and some music to set the tone. Design a course to complete your vision and taste- and for that of your friends and loved ones.
Want something really special-set a night for yourself. That’s right- set the table for one, design a beautiful course and display it as you would expect it given to you. Laugh if you like, but its quite fun and a wonderful treat as well as an escape from the hectic noise of the day. Follow it with a bath or movie if you like even.
Including friends and loved ones makes it magical, and is a great reason to get them involved and enjoy each others company. Create a few simple appetizers and an easy and delicious entree with some glamorous sides- what makes it glamorous is up to you. Maybe its the colors you use in your vegetables and fruits, maybe its the distinct herbs or cheeses you like. Make it your own, make it beautiful, and make it enjoyable. It will give a whole new meaning to the cleaning up the house chore if its for something you are creating. That’s always a nice little extra.
And don’t ever forget the dessert. A small little taste is never a bad thing, particularly as I myself take as many tastes as possible.
Have a little fun with your meals.
Cheese In Gourmet Luxury
May 11, 2008
Is there anything grander than cheese- I think not. It plays nicely with wines and fruits, not to mention quite well on its own. Local cheese shops are a gem if you have one available. The busier the better- as the cheese does not sit and is constantly receiving new orders.
But then what do you do when that option is not available? Packaged and processed cheese doesn’t have to be the answer- all those chemicals and preservatives aren’t cheese after all. Believe it or not, there is an alternative- and a GREAT one at that.
Take a look over at Venissimo.com. A world quality selection at your fingertips and soon to be at your door.
As a reference alone, their information is incredibly valuable. Everything from tasting notes to what to pair your cheese with. It is all there for you.
Lost and confused of where to start- select a category or type and you are on your way. When I saw the category of “stinky cheeses” I knew I was in the right place. Mmmmm… I am hungry just thinking about it now.
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Luxury and food, they know each other so well.
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Candy on the Chic
May 7, 2008
Pure divine fruit preserved in the traditional way of Southern France, still today is within grasp in a delicious way. Of my travels, Nice has such a wonderful feel that can really be noticed at the Confiserie Florian through their creations. Keeping true to history and tradition, the factory is more than happy to guide you through the process- samples along the way a delight to enjoy.
A favorite of mine is the ostrich eggs- a velvety smooth chocolate wrapped in a fragile candy coating. Its all the right textures and balances that melt in just the right way- impossible to ignore or save for later, I devour them in an instant.
Fruit and Chocolate is grand- however do not miss the selection of candied flowers and liquors. Rose and Violet have always been a favorite of mine as a child- simply beautiful and delicate.
Nice alone is quite beautiful, and the Confiserie Florian is a direct reflection. Visit their site www.confiserieflorian.com and you can have them delivered to your home- such a convenience especially when the flight is so long.
Candy lovers everywhere, this is one to indulge and adore.
Luxury of Spa V
April 27, 2008
Living in a world where luxury knows no bounds, a true gem and loving favorite of mine remains in Spa V of the Hotel Victor Miami. It is an underground world of serene luxury. Indulge in the eucalyptus steam room or simply melt away in the appropriately titled cool down room. STRETCH ME is a particular favorite of mine, consisting of a mix of anything from Thai massage to deep tissue- they construct the massage to your needs and desires. It is a must, not to mention the many treatments they offer to combine with it.
Pool and parking is complimentary to guests of the Spa and Hotel and are to be taken advantage of, especially as the beaches can become quite crowded and parking on a sunny day impossible.
Another indulgence I would recommend is having a bite or drink from the Vix- service is welcomed in the cool down room for a bite before or afterwards, meaning you need not move an inch for luxury. They’re menu is as beautiful as it is delicious; with so many playful drinks it is hard to decide. Though I must admit, when detoxing after a massage- drink plenty of water and avoid the tempting alcohol.
Make a day of it instead- arrive early and enjoy the pool with some lunch and a drink. Unwind in the cool down room and prepare yourself by relaxing in the steam room. It is a beautiful way to end the massage as well.
Find a time earlier in the day or week and you will often find the spa to yourself- another luxury.
