LA Eats of the Week

With as many restaurants as there are Bird scooters, we’ve decided to simplify your options of the week by dishing out the best places to grab a bite from power lunches to elegant fare.

Read below for our nosh worthy eats throughout L.A.

“Breakfast is the most important meal of the day!”

Fiona

Fiona

Location: 339 N Fairfax Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90036

Nicole Rucker’s pies have been legendary ever since she won the Good Food pie contest in 2012, but you used to have to know the former Gjusta pastry chef to get one yourself. No more: At Fiona, the cute new bakery-restaurant from Rucker and a dream team that includes the guys from Cofax, she’s serving up chess pies, chocolate pies, lemon pies, and more in the bakery case, a for-now breakfast/brunch menu with interesting toasts and omelettes, and, coming in early December, some lunch and dinner options in collaboration with the chef from Simbal.*

Amazebowls

Amazebowls

Location: 300 S Santa Fe Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90013

As one of the best acai bowl shops in town, Amazebowls has grown from a truck to a brick and mortar in Downtown L.A. (as well as a window on the Venice Boardwalk), selling their popular bowls and smoothies from the Arts District. Try the classic Amazebowl made with acai, blueberries, pineapple, banana, agave and hemp milk; or the Instagram-friendly Coconut Acai Bowl served in a chilled coconut and topped with a slew of superfoods.

Rose Café-Restaurant

Rose Cafe Venice

Location:  220 Rose Ave, Venice, CA 90291

It’s a bakery and café and bar and restaurant with multiple seating areas and patios. Inside, the bakery case gleams, the bar bustles, live plants and orb lighting hang from the ceiling on tasseled ropes. In the main dining area — a giant, covered patio — you sit on molded green and white chairs and eat off of wooden tables flanked by walls of ivy under giant wicker light shades. It all feels effortless and beautiful and so very, very Venice.

“Brunch, Lunch, 2nd Breakfast!”

Chulita

Chulita

Location:  533 Rose Ave, Venice, CA 90291

Chulita is a modern Mexican restaurant from owner Shireen Imani, opens tomorrow evening in the former Superba Snack Bar space on Rose Avenue. The incoming eatery has Alex Silva and Vanessa Salas running the menu. Overall Chulita’s menu goes for a Mexico City-style botanas y mezcales, or drinking food with spirits, in a sunny Tulum-esque ambience.

Slab

Slab

Location: 8136 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048

Burt Bakman, is the pitmaster at Slab, the most exciting new BBQ opening in LA since Maple Block. Part of the h.Wood Groups bustling line-up of restaurants(The NIce Guy, Poppy, Delilah to name a few), Slab is a “smoke-show” of a hit. Expect staples like smoked chicken and spare ribs, as well as “The Trudy Special,” a brie and brisket sandwich that’s become a fast favorite.

Pedalers Fork

Pedalers Fork

Location: 23504 Calabasas Rd., Calabasas, CA 91302

Offering local organic bites in the heart of Calabasas, Pedalers Fork is a delightful one stop shop that also serves as a full bar, café, and bike boutique all-in-one. With brunch, lunch, and dinner, there are many menu options and seating times to choose from. Stop by midday day for the Rock Shrimp Ceviche tossed in cucumber, radish, grapefruit, chili and sesame. Or venture over for an evening reprieve like their Truffle Pizza or Watkins Ranch Grass Fed Petite Filet with pomme aligot, cabernet sauce, truffle butter, and crispy shallots. Yum!

“What’s for Dinner?”

Inn Ann

Inn Ann

Location: 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Japan House is a new venue at Hollywood & Highland dedicated to all things, well, Japanese; Inn Ann is its hidden restaurant (literally, the name means “hidden retreat”), serving up a rotating menu of omakase from chefs visiting from Japan itself. The opening menu is from Chef Taro Araki, and includes a Japanese omelette with truffle and miso-marinated cheese.

Simone

Simone

Location:  449 S Hewitt St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Located right in the heart of the Arts District, Simone’s a beautiful, brick-laden, fresh-ingredient-forward spot from James Beard Rising Star Jessica Largey, who — thanks to some industry mover-and-shaker partners — has already been serving up Hollywood royalty (we were at the opening party… and so was ScarJo. No big whoop). The menu’s got all the Cali-friendly goodness you’d expect: pork collar with baby bok choy and charred peanuts, ricotta gnudi with grated tomato, and a ton of veggie dishes for the non-meat eaters of the world.

Q Sushi

Q Sushi

Location: 30770 Russell Ranch Rd, Ste. A, Westlake Village, CA 91362

Q Sushi provides a delectable seasonally influenced Japanese menu in an upscale and unparalleled setting. The Chefs showcase the true artisan of Izakaya sushi using the highest quality selections. Their precise attention to each minute detail is reflected in the bold flavoring and harmonious appearance from the freshly prepared Sushi to the Robata items and Kobe beef. The menu offerings are further completed with Q Sushi’s wide array of fine sakes, craft beers and wines from Kieu Hoang Winery in Napa Valley.

 

Out and About: DTLA

Los Angeles is full of bold history and  unparalleled attractions. The home of Tinseltown. A pinnacle point of the Gilded Age. All synonymous with Downtown LA–a creative mix of the times, both new and old.

Take an Angels Flight on LA’s only Funicular. Hear masterpieces at Disney’s Concert Hall. Spend a day in DTLA and enjoy a true piece of quintessential California.

Keeping in mind the many areas of DTLA to explore, we will focus on the highlight reel of day to night activities.

At Dawn…

To nosh!

Start your morning off the Parisian way with a trip to DTLA’s beloved Bottega Louie.

Bottega Louie

Before Laduree was kind enough to make it’s long overdue west-coast appearance, Bottega was the only place one could get a luxury Macaron collection whilst enjoying a french style brasserie. While there are more than a few shops that offer that perfect Paris treat now, Bottega Louie will always hold a special place in our Angeleno hearts. Try the delectable Beignets served with Raspberry compote or the Tuscan Farro and Eggs tossed in Rainbow Carrots, Fresh Kale, and Mushrooms. Bon Appetit!

For Arts sake!

After you finish your trip down french cuisine lane, your not too far to have your pick of art on display at The Broad or MOCA.

The Broad

While both museums offer their own range of Modern Contemporary Art, each will provide you a unique experience and proper dose of culture.

Needing a literary fix? The Los Angeles Central Library boasts stunning architecture and rare books.

Los Angeles Central Library

Satisfy your inner book worm then head over to the Grammy Museum for a different collection of art with one of a kind pieces to gander at from musics biggest legends.

The Grammy Museum
Structural Wonders

For those who have an admiration for the great architecture of LA, the Los Angeles Conservancy Walking Tours is here to assist. As they guide you through and by DTLA’s iconic facades, you’ll have your choice of style. Choose between tours of modern skyscrapers or the Historic Core, Art Deco icons or Victorian mansions. A true display of LA’s most beautiful building.

On the chance you opt out of the walking tour, you should at least add the Bradbury Building and Spring Arcade Building to your list of sites to see.

The Bradbury Building

The two are unlike one another as the Bradbury is DTLA’s oldest commercial building established in 1893. While much of the space is utilized for private office use,  movie buffs may recognize its iconic iron staircases from the climax of Bladerunner.

After this historical stop, save sometime to venture to the next one, if not only to at least pick up a mid morning reprieve. The Spring Arcade building still brims with the beauty of its 1924 structure.

Spring Arcade Building

Enter the terra cotta archway as you walk through a glass-roofed alleyway of dining options.  Stop by the Green Grotto Juice Bar and pick up a tasty beverage to go before your afternoon begins!

Upon Noon…

“Barefoot in the Park”

By this point your thinking, “I’ve done enough walking today”. Well venture over to Grand Park, not for the cardio but to take in the bright urban oasis.

Grand Park

Refurbished in 2012, the park has 12 acres of sprawling space to lounge and people watch other than the performances and gatherings it plays host to throughout the year.

If your starving Grand Central Market is the only ideal destination to appease your midday cravings.

Grand Central Market

A downtown landmark since 1917, the food hall boasts over 30 different vendors ranging in international cuisine.

Once you’ve chosen and chased away those hunger pains, Angels Flight-the worlds shortest railway is mere steps away.

Angels Flight

Thanks to the success of the Hollywood hit film Lalaland in which it was featured and enough community demand, the once stalled hillside attraction was reopened in 2017.

Shopping Essentials

We are sure by now your wondering when you will get to splurge a little. Figat7th is the next destination which offers all of your favorite fashion finds like Zara and Mac(for unique pieces the Art District does not disappoint).

Figat7th

After you’ve picked up the items you’ll quote as “necessary” brace yourself for unparalleled views at our next stop.

New Heights

Que Skyspace, locate din the US Bank building is a high-rise experience to be had for all.

Que Skyspace

Glide your way down on the 45ft glass Skyslide suspended 1000 feet in the air  to their observation deck for unobstructed views of the city of stars. A site seeing experience like no other.

The old establishment

The oldest section of the city, El Pueblo and Olvera Street were established in 1781 as a farming community.

El Pueblo and Olvera Street

Brimming with authentic Spanish style, the area boast 11 historical structures and a range of independent street vendors.

Once you’ve explored enough here make your last afternoon stop Union Station(pun intended).

Union Station

The last of the great American rail stations is just as handsome as the day it opened, with its mission style exterior and grand art deco interior touches.

When Night falls…

“Live a little!”

As the evening sets in there are a few options to keep your DTLA outing going well into the night. Stop by LA Live to catch a game at the Staples Center or experience the only 4D entertainment in LA at Regal Cinemas.

L.A. Live

Seeking a bit more of a stage based experience? Both the Music Center and Disney Concert Hall boost world-renowned performing arts engagements.

Set the stage

At the Music Center much of the shows put on are courtesy of the Centre Theatre Group.

Music Center-Ahmanson Theatre

At the north end, the Ahmanson Theatre presents pre- or post-Broadway fare, while the smaller Mark Taper Forum stages a wide range of new plays. Also part of the Music Center, the grand Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is the home base for LA Opera, as well as occasional concerts and dance events.

The Disney Concert Hall is not only a marvel of modern architecture but home to LA’s award-winning Philharmonic.

Disney Concert Hall

Hosting a plethora of concerts and shows throughout the year, it is an experience not to be missed.

“Paint the town red”

If you want a bit more high-flying views along with your evening feast, 71 Above is literal in its name of providing you just that.

71 Above

Set 950 feet from the ground level, 71 Above offers elevated modern American Cuisine with elevated views.

If you didn’t make it to the Arts District for your shopping spree, it is worthy of ending your night there. Providing some of the most unique restaurants and bars in the city of Los Angeles, the Arts District is a culinary and cultural haven.

If you know anything LA’s iconic dining scene, you’ll Bestia falls right to the top of the list. We recommend the the Spaghetti Rustichella—a small pyramid of noodles under Dungeness crab.

Bestia

Italian not quite your flavor? No fret! For savory steak frites try Church & State  a marvel of french cuisine. After dinner finish your night Everson Royce Bar-a hidden neighborhood gem.

Everson Royce Bar

 

 

 

Weekend Events: Dec. 7th-9th

Now that “Festivus”  draws near, it is no better time to explore the city’s most joyous events this December. No matter your holiday of choice, there is something for all to enjoy. So throw on your tackiest sweater, take your spiced cider to go and venture out this holiday season!

With all the hustle and bustle of our weekday routine we bring you a curated list of the weekends top activities happening throughout the city of stars.

Discover your inner Angeleno!

Limited engagements taking place this Dec. 7th-9th

Friday, Dec. 7th

Yuletide Cinemaland

Location: Heritage Square Museum, Los Angeles

Street Food Cinema bring their signature brand of outdoor-screening magic to L.A.’s Heritage Square Museum with Yuletide Cinemaland. This festive celebration centers around a Charles Dickens-style town square.  Celebrate the nostalgia of classic holiday movies with Christmas carolers, food trucks, hot chocolate, mulled wine, craft beer and more. Explore picturesque Victorian-era homes dressed for the holidays, join piano sing-alongs and experience the Instagram-worthy Holiday Light Tunnel.  Click here for more info.

American Contemporary Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker Suite
The American Contemporary Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker Suite

Location: California Plaza, DTLA

Experience the wonder of The Nutcracker in this first person perspective showcase performed by the American Contemporary Ballet.  Witness this timeless tale  as you become the main character. Once the entertainment concludes, The Fairy will guide you to a celebration with champagne, live music and more! Click here for more info

Holiday Concerts in the Playhouse District
Holiday Concerts in the Playhouse District Presents: Little Brazil

Location: Vroman’s Courtyard-The Pasadena Playhouse, Pasadena

Enjoy the sounds of the season along with the Pasadena Playhouses’ Holiday display this Friday. Little Brazil brings their signature Brazilian flavors with holiday classics to the Vroman’s Courtyard. Complimentary coffee from The Next Chapter will also be served to all patrons. Experience a new kind of seasonal tradition! Click here for more info.

Saturday, Dec. 8th

Santa Monica Pub Crawl
Santa Monica Pub Crawl

Location: Santa Monica

What better way to jumpstart the holidays than jingling all the way to SMPC’s 10th annual holiday event. Ok, maybe no jingling but certainly a fair amount of festive fun. With over 6,000 patrons having crawled until their hearts content last year, this years event is sure to be just as memorable. The fee to take part is $15 and proceeds from the Pub Crawl will go towards the Westside Food Bank to aid those in need during the holiday season. Click here for more info.

Festival of Carols
Festival of Carols-Disney Concert Hall

Location: Disney Hall, DTLA

Whether you love a classic holiday song or just the joy of the season, the Festival of Carols is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. With over 100 classically trained carolers, this event is sure to warm the heart of even the most Grinch-iest of Grinches in your friend group. Click here for more info.

Snow Wonder
Snow Wonder

Location: Burton Chase Park

Ring in the holidays at Marina Del Rey’s annual Holiday celebration-Snow Wonder. Enjoy art, crafts, music, food and even real snow as Burton Chase Park is transformed into a Winter Wonderland. The event will also feature a fireworks display followed by the Marina’s Boat parade. Whether you chose to sled or sit in on the days fun, Snow Wonder is guaranteed to be a hit for the entire family. Click here for more info.

Sunday, Dec. 9th

Stevie Wonder’s House Full of Toys
Stevie Wonder-House Full of Toys Benefit Concert

Location: Staples Center

Stevie Wonder’s House Full of Toys returns for its 22nd year at the Staples Center in Downtown L.A. The event is hosted by the musician himself along with other special guest in order to raise funds to provide toys for thousands of children in orphanages, hospitals, and shelters. This year the show will also serve as a benefit concert for those affected by the recent California Wildfires. Concert-goers are encouraged to bring an unwrapped gift or toy. Click here for more  info.

Big Sunday’s 9th Annual Holiday Party & Sing Along
Big Sunday Annual Holiday Party and Sing Along

Location: 6111 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles 90038

Hosting their 9th annual Holiday party, Big Sunday is inviting all to join them and enjoy singing, food and fun with their guest of honor–the incredible kids from Ability First and other with disabilities large and small. In addition, volunteers are still needed to spread holiday cheer as they deck the halls and light a menorah along with loads of arts, crafts and festive treats. Click here for more info.

KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas 2018
KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas

Location: The Forum, Inglewood

Enjoy another year of KROQ’S end-of-year showcase with some of the best musical acts from around the country. Proceeds from the concert will go to benefit Para Los Niños and the Al Wooten Jr. Heritage Center.” Sundays lineup will include Florence + the Machine, Death Cab for Cutie, Billie Eilish, Chvrches and more! Click here for info.

 

Rodeo Realty’s Randi Feilich feat. on HGTV’s House Hunters

Rodeo Realty Calabasas agent Randi Feilich featured on  HGTV’s House Hunters

HGTV House Hunters

Rodeo Realty’s Randi Feilich recently appeared on HGTV’s season 154 episode 8 of House Hunters.

The episode titled “California Dreaming in San Diego” and recently aired on HGTV network. The segment focused on Randi assisting a Utah married couple, Cassia and Brian for the perfect SD home on  a $900,000 budget.  Through the course of the episode Randi shows the prospective buyers, a range of homes from oceanside to inland. Although the couple had many wishlist features, Randi still excelled in providing them listing options that met the couple’s Real Estate goals.

Randi Feilich on Season 154 Ep. 8 of HGTV’s House Hunters

To view Randi’s current listings click here:  https://randifeilich.rodeore.com/

Watch the Full Video Here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTWIZR0DiOQ 

Randi is a 2008 Executive MBA Graduate from Pepperdine University’s Graziadio School of Business and Management, and a licensed Real Estate Agent with Rodeo Realty, Beverly Hills and Calabasas. Randi will be featured this fall on HGTV’s HOUSE HUNTERS.
Randi’s early Real Estate experience began in 1988, personally managing her Real Estate investments, as a landlord and property manager. From her MBA schooling at Pepperdine, Randi integrated her studies of logic and analysis into her Real Estate career. Prior to that, Randi was an Executive Vice President and Partner in a large advertising firm. This extensive marketing background has proven both beneficial and crucial to developing her client’s marketing initiatives and plans.
In addition to Real Estate, Randi volunteers her time as a District Leader for Humane Society United States, and Southern California Representative for Project Coyote, a non-profit wildlife advocacy group. In doing so, Randi has appeared on Fox , KCET, ABC and NBC News and
featured in the Los Angeles Times, Daily News, Associated Press and hundreds of newspaper syndicates.

 

Randi strives to protect her client’s interests first, and in doing so, has proven successful in reaching her client’s goals.

Out and About: Abbot Kinney Edition

Everyone’s favorite hipster neighborhood is your new go to spot. Or at least it will be for delicious fare, specialized shops, and a proper daily dose of art after your read below. Spend your day in Abbot Kinney and…

Take some time to step outside your neck of the woods.

In the morning…

Gjelina

If you are lucky enough to snag a primetime reservation, we recommend starting your morning or early afternoon off at Gjelina. The Venice hotspot is constantly buzzing and the food is other worldly.

The Beach Life

Venice, CA

After you have fully food charged make your way over to the famed Venice Boardwalk. From colorful locals to unique speciality shops, and designer residences. You’ll find everything you need from sites, sounds, and a true feast for the senses.

Go Surf LA

Always wanted to try surfing? Go Surf LA provides year round lessons at the pier with wetsuit and board rental available starting at $80 per lesson.

During your afternoon…

“Shopper’s paradise”

Abbot Kinney Shops

Once you have filled up on seaside fun head back over to AK’s boutique paradise. Named by GQ’s “Style Bible” as “The Coolest Block in America”, Abbot Kinney Blvd is teaming with a vibrant collection of shops from vintage wear to modern designers. Stop at Tina Wakino’s Bazar, a mix of classic and expertly chosen pieces. The shop as been a Venice staple for more than 15 years with finds like Indigo-dyed textiles, furniture, jewelry, and other antique objets d’art.

Warby Parker

Need a new pair of shades? Warby Parker’s West Coast flagship store is a beachy eyewear haven. The interior of the boutique is the perfect coastal ambience you’d expect in a Venice shop with artwork by Geoff McFetridge. What’s better about this optical option over the rest is that with each purchase of eyewear , Warby Parker donates a pair of glasses to charity.

Midday cravings

Salt Air

Now that you’ve seen a little and shopped a little, it’s time for an afternoon bite! It wouldn’t quite be a day by the sea without some oceanic cuisine. Salt Air has you covered. With their Connecticut-style lobster roll or perfectly poached flaky salmon you’ll feel refined and refreshed at the same time. Pair these menu pick’s along with a serving of summery shelling beans and charred shisito peppers and we will need a new word to describe ourselves other than stuffed.

So much time for activities!…

With appetites accommodated and shopping goals met, it’s time for a midday stroll to work off that Lobster Roll. The Venice Canals serve as the quintessential afternoon reprieve.

Venice Canals

Built in 1905 by the Abbot Kinney himself as part of his “Venice of America” plan, once wondered all the way through Venice Blvd. Registered as a Historic landmark in 1982, the canals reach is a bit shorter but the journey through is just as wonderful. Stroll along visitor friendly pathways of the luxury homes that line this Venice staple.

Beyond Baroque

Before your evening begins, a trip to Beyond Baroque is almost entirely necessary. The Arts Center is considered one of the most famous literary incubators in the country. Founded by George Dury in 1968, the center is housed in the former Venice City Hall building. The nonprofit public space is used to cultivate  and expand the public’s knowledge of newfound literary art. They do so through poetry, fiction, literature and art through cultural events and community interaction.

As the sun sets…

Scopa

If your tuckered out on activities, consider your evening guide a much needed rest. Abbot Kinney is known for many things, and its cuisine truly pushes the threshold of being number one. From aforementioned go-to’s like Gjelina to celebrity hotspots like Scopa and The Butchers Daughter, your palette can do no wrong. We recommend stepping outside the norm and into the vegetable box to be exact.

Plant Food and Wine

Plant Food & Wine from Chef Matthew Kenney is a sleek vegan restaurant on the quit end of AK. And while you might say your no Vegan, to that we say it all depends on what you get. From the kimchi dumplings being almost too pretty to eat to the carrot soup being almost too good to not order three more rounds, you’ll leave plant-based satisfied.

Salt & Straw

Finish up on a sweet note at craft creamery Salt & Straw. The artisanal ice cream shop is a Portland transplant with an extensive menu boosting flavors both sinful and curious. Try the Almond brittle and Slated Ganache or go for true Cali style  with a scoop of Avocado Strawberry Sherbet. Can’t decide on just one? For $10 guest can have an ice cream flight of four flavors from the classic and seasonal menus.

Your Holiday Travel Guide

The best part of the holidays other than quality family time is the time to get away. While we love the sites and scenes in the city of stars, sometimes it’s nice to spend the festive season abroad. With that in mind we have rounded together the top destinations to jet off to between Hanukkah and the New Year, so pack your bags for the great Winter escape!

 

Mexico’s Pacific Coast

While Puerto Vallarta is always a guaranteed great time south of the border, the beach town of Sayulita delivers its own level of style. Just 20 miles south from the major resort area, this is plentiful of vintage board shops and hammock strung guest homes. Feel like splurging? In between beach shack margaritas and local bites are NYC and Parisian designers tucked into brightly painted boutiques. Your winter getaway awaits!!

Tbilisi, Georgia

While this destination may seem an unlikely choice for a winter get-away, it is an ideal spot for those looking to find a different skiing scene. While places like Aspen and Switzerland never disappoint, the same can be said for Tbilisi. With its jumble of colorful balconies, Art Nouveau facades and picturesque flea markets, its the perfect combination of Eurasian wonder.

Botswana

It’s the place where HRH Prince Harry swept nor HRH Duchess Megan off her feet. It is also one of the most extraordinary safari experiences you can find in this region of the South African Nation. The Okavango delta is overflowing in wildlife found throughout the areas protected park and game reserve. With the area’s new found press, Wilderness Safaris was lucky to open it’s new luxury tented suites; Oorokwe Camp at the right time. With bleached timbers and private deck , these accommodations along the border of Moremi Game Reserve is fit for any Royal or visitor alike.

Nepal and Bhutan

As we promised, this is a list of destinations perfect to visit during the winter months, and the area of Nepal and Bhutan holds true to that promise. Stay at the famed Dwarika Hotel–an oasis of architectural charm and traditional luxury, one of many luxury hotel options in the area. Then take your exploring to new heights by enjoying a helicopter ride to the top of The Taktsang Monastery. There you will enjoy a picnic lunch above the clouds followed by a hike down to tour the Monastery. When do we leave?

India

While India almost speaks for itself as a travel choice, this year marks a historic opportunity to visit. This year the country celebrates  150 years since the birth of Gandhi. Also while there one can see the wonder of Nagaland and the Kaziranga National Park-home to asiatic rhinos and some of Asia’s last surviving former-headhunting tribes.

Tohoku, Japan

Japan has always served as a fascinating and unique destination full of culturally exquisite finds. With so many area’s to chose from to explore, why not venture off the beaten path? Tohoku, 90 minutes north-east of Tokyo offers incredible natural landscapes. Perfect for hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter, it is a year round escape. Wander through the village of Kakunodate, home to Samurai legends and artisan workshops, reminiscent of the Edo period.

Mackenzie Country, Otago, New Zealand

We all know New Zealand as the land of Hobbiton(or Lord of the Rings fans know this), but the island nation is more than fantasy in it splendor. With it’s glacial highlands and sunken valleys, visitors are recommended to enjoy the country’s Alp region for hiking, biking and luxury accommodations.

Nusa Penida, Indonesia

 

While Bali and the Gili Islands already serve as world renowned vacation spots, the island of Nusa Penida is just as breathtaking. Located just of the south east coast of Bali, Nusa Penida offers untouched landscapes. Amongst the beauty is a chance to soak in the natural wonder of the Giri Putri Cave or Angel’s Billabong. Stay at the Kabeh Jati Garden Villa for a perfect nights rest.

Panama

While 2019 will be a celebration off Panama City’s 500 year history, mid-December begins it’s season of the best time to travel to the region. While the country is small in size, it offers vast options of exploration. From it’s white sand beaches and  indigenous culture and it’s to tropical rainforest and misty highlands, your adventure awaits.

Palomino, Columbia

With it’s beautiful; Caribbean beaches and and stunning wildlife, Palomina is the ideal holiday escape. Enjoy surfing or floating via tub down the Palomino River and its natural beauty. With it’s amazing range of seafood and luxury stay options, this Columbian destination awaits your well deserved visit.

 

 

Your Thanksgiving Cocktail Guide

Maybe you enjoy avoiding(or barring through) deep conversations about your life with your Aunt Esther… Or simply love the holiday occasion to indulge, we’ve rounded up the best beverage recipes this season. So take a seat and a sip, because this Top 10 list is sure to make you the Thanksgiving MVP.

Pecan Pie Martini

Pecan Pie Martini
INGREDIENTS
  • 6 oz. Rumchata
  • creme de cocoa
  • bourbon
  • Ice
FOR GARNISH
  • 3 tbsp. caramel, microwaved until pourable
  • 1/4 c. toasted chopped pecans
  • Cool whip, for garnish
  • whole pecans, for garnish
  • Sprinkle of cinnamon, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
  1. Place caramel and toasted chopped pecans on separate small shallow plates. Dip the rim of each glass first into caramel and then into chopped pecans to coat.
  2. Combine Rumchata, creme de cocoa, and bourbon in a large cocktail shaker. Fill with ice and shake until cold, 30 seconds. Pour into martini glasses and top with a dollop of whipped cream, a whole pecan, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Apple Cider Mimosas

Apple Cider Mimosa
INGREDIENTS
  • 2 tbsp. sugar
  • 1 tbsp. ground cinnamon
  • 1 c. apple cider
  • (750-ml.) bottle bubbly
DIRECTIONS
  1. On a small plate, combine sugar and cinnamon. Dip champagne flutes in water to wet the rims, then dip in cinnamon sugar mixture.
  2. Fill champagne flutes 1/4 full with apple cider, then top off with champagne.

Cranberry Mules

Cranberry Mules
INGREDIENTS
  • 2 oz. cranberry juice
  • 2 oz. vodka
  • 1/4 c. lime juice, plus extra for garnish
  • 3 oz. ginger beer
  • Handful fresh or frozen cranberries
DIRECTIONS
  1. Combine cranberry juice, vodka and lime in a glass filled with ice. Top with ginger beer, whole cranberries and garnish with a lime wedge.

Caramel Apple Spritzers

Caramel Apple Spritzer
INGREDIENTS
  • apples
  • Lemon wedges (to prevent apples from browning)
  • 1/2 c. Caramel
  • 1/4 c. cinnamon-sugar
  • 750-ml bottle moscato, chilled
  • 1 c. green apple vodka, chilled
  • 1 c. Sprite, chilled
DIRECTIONS
  1. Make apple cups: Slice off the top of each apple. Use an apple corer to remove the inside of the apple until you’re about 1/2″ from the bottom of the apple. Squeeze lemon juice inside the apple cups to prevent apples from browning.
  2. Dip the rims of the apple cups in caramel then coat in cinnamon-sugar.
  3. Make spritzer: In a large pitcher, combine moscato, green apple vodka and Sprite and stir. Pour spritzer into apple cups and serve immediately.

Pumpkin Spice Oreo Spiked Milkshake

Pumpkin Spice Oreo Milkshake
INGREDIENTS
  • 1 1/2 oz. vodka
  • pumpkin spice Oreos, plus more for garnish
  • scoops of vanilla ice cream
  • 1/2 c. milk
  • Salted caramel, for drizzling
DIRECTIONS
  1. Place vodka, pumpkin spice Oreos, vanilla ice cream, and milk in a blender.
  2. Pour mixture into serving glass and drizzle with salted caramel sauce.

Maple Bourbon Cocktail

Maple Bourbon
INGREDIENTS
  • 2 ounces bourbon (I used Makers 46)
  • 1 ounce fresh squeezed orange juice
  • 1/2 ounce pure maple syrup
  • 1-2 dashes of angostura bitters
  • orange peel + maraschino cherry for garnish
DIRECTIONS

Add ingredients to an ice filled cocktail shaker and shake until chilled. Strain into ice filled glass. Garnish with orange peel and cherry. Serve and enjoy!

Apple, Pumpkin Beer Cocktails

Apple Pumpkin Beer
Ingredients
  • 8 ounces good-quality bourbon
  • 9 ounces apple cider
  • 2 1/2 ounces lemon juice
  • 12 ounces pumpkin ale
  • ice
  • Cinnamon sticks and cranberries for garnish
Directions
  1. In a cocktail shaker, shake together the bourbon, apple cider and lemon juice. Pour into 4 glasses filled with ice.
  2. Pour the beer evenly into each glass.
  3. Garnish with cinnamon sticks and cranberries. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pear and Thyme Fizz

Pear and Thyme Fizz
Ingredients:
  • 2 cups good-quality apple juice
  • 1 ripe but firm pear, very thinly sliced
  • 12 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1/4 cup orange-flavored liqueur (I like grand marnier)
  • 1 bottle sparkling wine (champagne, prosecco, cava, etc.)
Directions

1. In a pitcher, combine apple juice, pears, thyme and liqueur. Stir together, then refrigerate for 2 – 4 hours to allow the pears and thyme to infuse the juice with flavor.

2. Divide between 6 champagne flutes, discarding thyme, then fill remainder of each glass with champagne. Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh thyme. Bottoms up!

Cava and Pomegranate Cocktail

Cava and Pomegranate
Directions
  1. Fill 12 flutes with cava.
  2. Add 1 teaspoon of the pomegranate juice to each flute
  3. garnish with pomegranate seeds and serve.

Hard Cider Sangria

Hard Cider Sangria
Directions
  1. In a pitcher, combine the apples with the orange, apple juice, lemon juice and brandy.
  2. Just before serving, add the hard cider(Angry Orchard, Stella Artois, etc..).
  3. Serve in tall glasses over ice.