CAAFD (Council of Aspiring American Fashion Designers) brings opportunities to fashion designers that are just starting out. The team experience gives the designers a direction to getting through the front door.
The team is stylists, designers, professionals, and artists. CAAFD presents Bajaj-Larsen, Yufash, Sania Studio, Patricia Wijaya, Mouton Blanc, Zabetta Couture, Ayni, and Thunyatorn runways for spring summer 2019 at Pier 59.
Ruth Zabetta CAAFD NYFW
Yufash CAAFD Designer Showcase
Yufash CAAFD Designer Showcase
Mouton Blanc Show CAAFD
Thunyatorn CAAFD Designer Showcase
Helen Bajaj-Larsen
Bajaj-Larsen, an emerging designer, focuses on the textile and surface design. Spring summer 2019 collection is colorful with exceptional surface textual designs. There are many regions of the world represented on the runway.
Yufash
Yufas, luxury edgy eveningwear, spring summer 2019 brings menswear to the luxury brand. The runway, filled with color and brightness. The attention to the details is seen throughout the collection. They take into account that many evening events use softer lighting or red carpet coverage. They add texture and beading to capture and bounce the light.
Sania Studio
Sania Studio creates directional feminine silhouette. The spring-summer 2019 designs with luxe fabrics cut and draping with nice prints. The fabric is light and has movement. This is an exceptionally late spring and summer collection.
Patricia Wijaya
Patricia Wijaya, brings dark blues and gold to spring summer 2019. This is a complete styling with Cava Prive’s shoes and Dale Beevers’ jewels. The use of architecture is strong in the collection. This adds a futuristic look to the collection.
Mouton Blanc
Mouton Blanc is a collections representative of designer Hakuyo Miya Japanese background and upbringing. Soft colors, light fabrics, and use lace for a hint of sexual appeal.
Zabetta Couture
Zabetta Couture brings the same bold print and large sun hats in the collection. The designs is fitting for afternoon tea in the garden and an evening events.
Ayni
Ayni, using the earth’s finest materials. The clothing is sophisticated using Peruvian materials and artistians. The sense is ethics and aesthetics with mixed prints in the styling with an elegance feel.
Thunyatorn
Thunyatorn brings a design similar to a Japanaise kumono with intricacate headpieces. The inspiration is Thailand’s culture and fashion. Silk, a traditional fabric in Thailand. It is a strong represenation of culture.
CAAFD designers inspire, motivate, and ready to enter the front door to the fashion world.
C+ Plus presents spring summer 2019 runway at New York Fashion Week (NYFW). This collection is modern, luxurious, and urban for women.
C+ Plus Creative Team
This team brings a talent that brings award-winning fashion to womenswear. This is a collaboration of designer C.T.LIU and CHABER. They bring strong lines, deconstruction, fabric development, and a very modern look to their designs. This is a clothing line that allows women to feel a beautiful, confident, and graceful.
The clothing started in Asia in 2013 where it was labeled one of the Ten Most Successful Brands in Asia. They continued to win awards during Mercedes-Benz Asia Most Potential Asian Designer. This seasons collection continues to be awestruck.
C+ Plus NYFW Runway
This season the collection brings lines. The design with these lines brings an accentuating point for women’s bodies. The bold colors and fabrics are on course with the fashion.
C+ Plus NYFW
C+ Plus NYFW
C+ Plus NYFW
The deconstruction of the clothing brings a dimension and architecture to the clothing. This provides a real art to fashion style, a theme found throughout fashion week. The depth and movement in the deconstruction clothing is inspiring. The use of traditional fashion now takes on a very modern look.
The lines and deconstruction play well on the clothing and a feminine feel. The strong layering continuing depth theme making a great start to pre-spring and early spring fashion. A strong woman is represented well with this collection.
C+ Plus NYFW
C+ Plus NYFW
The styling is simple with light makeup and sleeked back hair. The shoes are the trending sneaker that carries over from summer. The formal looks include boots. One model wears tall boots one black and one white with a black and white dress. This is a fun look.
C+Plus is a collection that carries urban, modern, and luxurious.
The Governors Ball presents an event worthy of 70 years of Emmys®. The event will be a glamours celebration on top of Los Angeles will be under the stars.
Hosting you own Emmys® Party
This is a great time to celebrate you favorite television series and actors. Invite a few friends over for an evening of star gazing and glam. Here are a few ideas for the evening.
Decorate the living room with icicle lights and small strands of starlight-inspired LED lighting
Encourage guest to dress in the Governors Ball theme colors blues, purples, silvers, and golds.
Design the invites with the same colors above and use stars or small crystals.
Create a recipe or two from the Governors Ball
Create great pieces for the table or buffet server with metallic fabrics
Use large pillows for extra sitting in the viewing room
Set up your own red carpet with a backdrop on a wall in your home
Provide fuzzy socks for guests while sitting on pillows
The 2018 Governors Ball Food & Beverage Shoot on Thursday, May 31, 2018 at Patina in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision for the Television Academy/AP Images)
Emmys® Governors Ball Menu
Chef and Founder Joachim Splichal and Patina Catering return to the Governors Ball for the 23rd year to bring an extensive menu matching the sophistication of their Michelin star restaurants.
Chef Joachim Splichal is widely recognized as the chef that made LA as a premier dining capital of the world. He is hailed as a “Legendary Chef” by Bon Appétit.
The menu is diverse for all foodies. This year includes a large variety of gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian dishes. The menu includes:
The 2018 Governors Ball Food & Beverage Shoot on Thursday, May 31, 2018 at Patina in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision for the Television Academy/AP Images)
Emmys® Governors Ball Desert
Every party needs a little something sweet. Frania Mendivil, the Executive Pastry Chef at Patina Catering, presents a decadent dessert menu including:
Mini Mason Jars ~ Harry’s Berries Strawberry shortcake Coconut chia seed tapioca GF VEGAN (see recipe below)
Mini Drumsticks
White and dark chocolate waffle cones filled with seasonal toppings Milk chocolate waffle cones filled with vanilla Chantilly
Mini Tarts Apricot almond, apple vanilla, pear chocolate
There is something for everyone’s liking. Mendivil began baking in her family’s bakery in Mexico.
Emmys® Governors Ball Spirits
The completing the celebrations is a drink just for the evening Enlightenment (see recipe below). This creation is fun and plalyful. The cocktails for the evening include:
Enlightenment The signature sip of the 70th Emmy® Awards Season – An effervescent cocktail featuring strawberry-infused Ketel One Family-Made Vodka, lime juice, honey syrup, Sencha green tea, Chareau liqueur, and yuzu & strawberry pearls that create an unexpected and complimentary pop of flavor with every sip. (signature cocktail at PNR Nominees Event only)
Radiance a familiar yet exotic mix of floral and spice.
Restoration a revitalizing homage to the classic espresso martini made with Fair Trade cold brew.
Labyrinth a refreshing garden-centric sipper boasting notes of fresh, all-natural vegetables.
Emmy® Statues are seen during the 2018 Governors Ball Sneak Peek Press Preview for the 70th Emmy® Awards at the L.A. Live Event Deck on Thursday, September 6, 2018, in Los Angeles, CA. (Photo by Danny Moloshok/Invision for the Television Academy/AP Images)
Emmys® Governors Ball Decor
Cheryl Cecchetto of Sequoia Productions is set the decor to be a full stray night. The evening takes place at LA Life Event Deck. The decor is thousands of twinkling lights suspended overhead. It is sure to be an artful combination of glamorous, sophisticated décor and a visionary dining and entertainment experience.
Emmys® Governors Ball Fun Facts
600 different lighting instruments
28,800 individual LED lights to create the ceiling installation
Lindt Chocolate is the official chocolate confectionery of the Green Room named the Lindt Chocolate Lounge
Emmys® Governors Ball Recipes
Filipino BBQ Chicken Skewers
Makes 12 Skewers
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup banana ketchup
1/2 cup lemon juice
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp finely minced garlic
1 tsp finely minced ginger
1/2 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
4 lbs. organic chicken thigh meat, cut into small cubes
12 bamboo skewers – pre-soaked in water for 30 minutes
1/2 cup finely sliced scallions
1/2 cup additional banana ketchup for dipping (recipe and instructions below)
Combine first 9 ingredients to make a marinade. Marinade the chicken for at least 4 hours,
preferably overnight. Thread chicken onto skewers and brush with oil. Cook over a grill, turning
as needed and brushing with reserved marinade, until charred and cooked through, about 10
minutes. Transfer to serving platter and garnish with sliced scallions and additional banana
ketchup sauce alongside.
Banana Ketchup
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup chopped Vidalia onions
2 tsp finely minced garlic
1 jalape.o seeded and minced
2 tsp finely grated ginger
1/2 tsp ground turmeric
1/2 tsp ground allspice
2 cups mashed ripe bananas
1/2 cup white wine vinegar
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
Cook onions in vegetable oil over medium heat until soft, about 7 minutes. Add the garlic,
jalapen, ginger, turmeric and allspice, and cook about 1 minute. Add the tomato paste,
bananas, vinegar, honey, soy sauce and brown sugar. Continue cooking an additional 15
minutes, stirring often. Let cool and refrigerate.
Coconut Chia Tapioca
Serving Size: 12, 2.5 oz. cups
Coconut Tapioca
Ingredients
8 cups water
1 cup small pearl tapioca
3/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
2 tablespoons of sugar
1/4 chia seeds
Pinch salt
Pour 2 cups water in a sauce pan and add the . cup small pearls. Partial cover and simmer over
medium heat. Stirring occasionally, until the pearls are translucent, about 40 minutes. Stir in
the . cup unsweetened coconut milk, add 2 tablespoons of sugar and a pinch of salt. Transfer
to a bowl and let it cool down. Once cooled cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2
hours
Passion Fruit Sauce
1/2 cup passion fruit puree
1/2 cup mango puree
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon agar-agar
In a sauce pan boil the passion and mango puree. In a medium bowl add the sugar and agaragar
and stir. Once the puree is boiling add the sugar and agar-agar mix, boil for 5 to 7 minutes
until there is a firm consistency. Once firm pour into medium bowl and let chill in the
refrigerator for at least 10 minutes
Exotic Tropical Fruit Salad
1/2 cup pineapple cut in 1/4 inch pieces
1/2 cup mango cut in 1/4 inch pieces
1/2 cup kiwi cut in . inch pieces
Zest of one lime
Juice of 1/2 lime
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp rice vinegar
1/2 cup simple syrup
Cut the fruit into . inch cubes and add to large bowl. Add the rice vinegar, simple syrup, lemon
zest, lime juice and sugar and using a wooden spoon stir all ingredients until the fruit is coated
with everything
Supper Seed Brittle
1/2 cup Glucose syrup
1 cup Sugar
1/2 cup Sesame seed
1/2 cup Chia seeds
1/2 cup Flax seed
Heat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. In sauce pan heat up the glucose with the sugar over
high heat until it becomes an amber color. In a large bowl add all the seeds and lightly stir. Add
the hot syrup to the seeds and stir. On a sheet pan, place waxed paper and pour the hot syrup
mixture onto it. Cover the mixture with waxed paper and place in the oven for 5 minutes. After
5 minutes take the mixture out of the oven and use a rolling pin to flatten the mixture until it is
paper thin (make sure to keep the waxed paper on it, otherwise the mixture will stick to the
rolling pan
Additional Garnish
1 package of micro cilantro
12 marigold flowers
Assembly
In a small cup place 1 tablespoon of passion fruit sauce, then add 3 tablespoons of the coconut
tapioca and 3 tablespoons exotic tropical fruit salad. Garnish with supper seed brittle, 3 micro
cilantro leaves and 1 marigold flower.
Enlightenment
1 1/2 oz Ketel One Family-Made Vodka infused with strawberries
1 oz lime juice
3/4 oz honey syrup
1 oz Sencha green tea
1/16 oz Chareau liqueur
Carbonated
Yuzu and Strawberry pearls
Combine the first five ingredients in a shaker over ice.
Pour liquid into carbonating vessel and charge with CO2.
Pour into chilled glass over yuzu and strawberry pearls.
Tie flowering herbs to the outside of the glass to finish.
The Emmys® know how to through a party that is star worthy. What is your favorite show on television? Post your answers on social media using #4ChionStyle.
The 70th Emmy® Awards will telecast live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, Monday, September 17 (5:00 – 8:00 PM PT) on NBC. Colin Jost and Michael Che, will co-host.
Chromat, creative designer Becca McCharen-Tran, brings her architecture and urban design to the New York Fashion Week (NYFW) runway. She transforms fashion from body fitting the body to the clothing fitting the body.
Chromat The Brand
SS19 Runway Photo Credit Daniel Chimowitz
SS19 Runway Photo Credit Daniel Chimowitz
This runway is not the expected evening gowns or ready-to-wear. It is a swimwear that is fitted and designed for any woman to fill comfortable without the large baggie shirt or bulky swim cover-up.
Tran brings Chromat to all women with her strong sense of structure, lines, and design bring a design that is flattering, sexy, and comfortable for anyone to wear.
SS19 Runway Photo Credit Daniel Chimowitz
Chromat The Runway
This runway inspiration is to reimagine the whole idea of throwing a ginormous shirt over a swimsuit while at the pool, peach or boating because of embarrassment. She believes every woman should feel her beauty and pride in swimwear. This runway accomplishes and demonstrates this.
The swimwear line started in 2010 brings architecture, fashion, innovative design, cutting-edge, the body’s performance encouraging empowerment from the garments for all bodies. The runway provides a strong diversity representing all women.
This runway does not have the Cheetos or snacks nor are they carrying pool accessories. They come down the runway just as if they have jumped out of the pool and are heading for their towels.
The swimwear is designed for those who love two piece swimsuits, one piece that even provides more coverage if you are in a cooler climate, but love to play in the water. It is a great collection full of color and print with a great use of mesh for breathability and comfort. The cover-ups are beautiful with some sex appeal with them.
Miss J Alexander and Daniel Chimowitz Photo Credit Daniel Chimowitz
Whoopi Goldeberg Photo Credit Daniel Chimowitz
Chromat Front Row
Attending the fashion show includes Whoopi Goldberg and Miss J. Alexander, just from his own runway walk for Laurence & Chico. He demonstrated just how it is done.
This is a fun collection for every woman to be sexy, beautiful, and confident. Chromat is your fashion go to for all your water fun.
Stephanie Nauli, philanthropist, musician, and model, will be attending E-Feminista Freedom Tour by Crowned for Success in New York city. She brings with her talents, service, and inspiration to this event. Nauli motto is, “look in the mirror and know you can be anything.” Get a little insight to this amazing woman.
What is the one thing you do to start each day to be successful?
I thank God for all the opportunities at hand and read my Holy Bible devotionals to get my mind and heart right for the course of the day.
As a young child what was the one thing you wanted to be as an adult?
A
star.
Being a single mother what is the one tip to scheduling and management
of a busy life you use?
Thank you for your service in the military. How has being a member of
the military benefited your current career in entertainment?
Being that I was the 1st Armored Division’s National Anthem Singer at Fort Bliss, Texas, with my face on a training site banner, I would say it was an honorable experience that better prepared me for the future.
Key to your life is philanthropy what is the one area that you see we can get motivated to participate?
We
can’t put full responsibility on the White House. They are doing their part as
our nation’s leaders. But the people are the hands and feet of the changes we
wish to see.
Health
is wealth and doing everything we can to sustain and improve the health of our
environment ensures that we ourselves can live healthier and more profitable
lives, by saving money on medical bills and capitalizing on athletic endeavors,
to name a few. Money does not flow without us and does not flow as productively
if we are not at our optimal state of health. Our well-being is reflected by
what we consume, and this includes the kind of air we breathe.
The
Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation has made such a lasting impact in my native
country, Indonesia, who now have been all about going green, improving the
overall health of their economy, and many others, to include the U.S.
Definitely, support their work and progress.
You focus on empowering people to be the best most positive life. How did you gain 1 insight or tool for your book?
If you can dream it, you can achieve it. If you can see it, you can believe it. Before anything manifests into something, it begins with an idea. That idea requires a plan of action if you want to make it happen. That is why I included a visual planning exercise in the Master Life Assessment Tool in the back of my Amazon bestseller “Master Life: 7 Powers to Living At Your Highest Potential.”
This
way your dream goes from concept to reachable opportunity.
Stephanie Nauli
E-Feminista is about creating a “laptop lifestyle” for women. How do
you interpret that in your daily living?
I
am a Regional Vice President of Crowned for Success, LLC, a sisterhood of entrepreneurial
women and online business owners who contribute a portion of our proceeds
against domestic violence and children’s education. We are all about the remote
living lifestyle because we as women of ambition, have lots we are passionate
about doing that can’t all be done in a cubicle. As an influencer and marketer,
my work is done 80% on my phone, 10% on a laptop or computer, and 10% in a
recording studio or film set. This allows me to travel where I want, when I
want, and with who, doing what I love.
What is the one moment in your life that you felt that you had made
around the corner?
When
I started my own production and marketing company, Millennial Entertainment,
LLC, that was the decision to create my own opportunities instead of waiting in
line.
Your Motto is “Look in the mirror and know you can be anything…” Do you feel you have achieved that to this time in life?
Absolutely, I always will be, because I believe in having a growth-mindset and continually learning things that better myself, my life, my performance, and my business. Every time I reach a goal, I will always want to take it to the next level. That’s just me. Complacency is a dangerous place to be.
One beauty tip you use to be the best you possible.
Staying
hydrated prevents wrinkles and keeps the skin supple, and lips plush, with the
help of a natural color lip enhancer by IT Cosmetics, Je Ne Sais Quoi
nourishing lipstick. It’s my everyday lip magic.
What are your current and upcoming projects for film, modeling, or
entertainment?
I
have an action/drama screenplay in development, it’s almost like Mr. & Mrs.
Smith meets the Goodfellas, and there are several distribution opportunities
for that as well as for brands and investors. I’ve been blessed to receive
brand ambassador opportunities that I’m considering, in athletic gear and makeup.
I also landed a supporting role in a military drama feature film, Charlie Med,
in pre-production, and I’m releasing my first EP on my 27th birthday, September
9th, that includes the cinematic pop-orchestra song, “You Can Be”, on all radio
streams.
Quentin Tarantino’s latest screenplay, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, is his new project, with a few hiccups in the beginning. This is about the Manson Family murders.
Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio star in Columbia Pictures “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”
Screenplay Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
This screenplay looks at the Mason family cult and commune formed in California in the late 1960s. The notorious killing of Sharon Tate and four others August 9, 1969. The film release is the 50-year anniversary of the murders. They were involved in several other murders, thefts, and other crimes. The film’s budget $100,000,000.
IMBD synopsis states, “A faded TV actor and his stunt double embark on an odyssey to make a name for themselves in the film industry during the Helter Skelter reign of terror in 1969 Los Angeles.”
Actors Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
This film has top list actors including:
Sharon Tate actor Margot Robbie
Rick Dalton actor Leonardo DiCaprio (took a pay cut to work with Tarantino)
Cliff Booth actor Brad Pitt (scheduling conflict prevented him from playing Rick Dalton)
Squeaky Fromme actor Dakota Fanning
Marvin Shwarz actor Al Pacino
George Spahn actor Burt Reynolds
Steve McQueen actor Damian Lewis
Kurt Russell
Margot Robbie Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
Margot Robbie as Sharon Tate in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon A Time in Hollywood.
Margot Robbie brings her talent to portray this living character as the character in this role. She took on Tony Harding in I, Tonya and brilliantly performed that role even the skating routines. The first look photos, she is Sharon Tate. You forget that this is Robbie. She presents the 1960s style in boots, mini-skirt, and black turtleneck. The blowout of the long blond hair the final touch, she looks more like Sharon Tate than herself.
Filming Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
Tarantino’s film meets a few hiccups during production. The film was set to have distribution with The Weinstein Company. This posed an issue once the charges against Harvey Weinstein. Tarantino looked for a new distributor for the film to have several offers.
The casting meets with struggles with Brad Pitt having scheduling conflicts for the original role he was too play. Pitt is co-starring with Leonardo DiCaprio for the first time will co-star together. Al Pacino’s role, Marvin Shwarz, was specifically written for him to play. This is the first collaboration between Pacino and DiCaprio.
This film with top actors, director. and writer is sure to entertain.
Traveling across the country you find a variety of traditional American food to traditions for each region. There is beautiful colors, smells, sounds, and exceptional people to meet. Here are a few of the food finds from Arizona to North Carolina.
Arizona Food
Chesapeake Bay Bistro
Chesapeake Bay Bistro
Pulling out of a local shopping plaza fish sounded good for dinner. As I Google the nearest location I did not have a clue that there was one tucked in the shopping center, Chesapeake Bay Bistro, this is was a treasure find.
The restaurant owned by James and Yolanda Brown ventured to open this location during the height of the pandemic. It was an exceptional decision.
Chef Zandra (Zantastic) Vaughn creates fish your way everyday. The menu is created to make your fish your way. The fish is homemade with fresh fish with every effort to use sustainable methods and recyclable goods. The hushpuppies are scrumptious.
The fish is fresh and crabs are live and flown in from the Chesapeake Bay in the East Coast on a daily basis. We make sure that our ingredients are of the highest quality.
The fun is adding your name to a flip flop and looking for an open space for your addition. The customer service the best. Yolanda is passionate and full of energy. The food was delicious and enough for a few meals.
Cameron Trading Post Highway 89
Cameron Trading Post
The food made from scratch daily and is a fusion of the three food cultures. This place is perfect for travelers with their lodging, restaurant, art gallery, garden with fountains, and a massive gift shop. The trading post opened in 1916 and welcomes everyone like a guest in their homes. Prior to being a trading post, the place served as an apothecary.
Breakfast:
Navajo pancake this is a blue corn pancake
Prickly pear stuffed french toast this is French toast served sandwich style with a prickly pear jam and cream cheese
Warrior Surprise is a mini-Navajo Taco topped with one egg
Lunch:
Southwest taco salad served with a prickly pear cactus fruit vinaigrette
Gunslinger ham and cheese with diced green chile to the classic ham and American cheese sandwich
Navajo burger A juicy burger patty served on Fry Bread with salsa and all the trimmings (this was a delicious choice)
Dinner:
Nakahee Becheeyeh ( means south of the border) includes a pork tamale, a meaty beef taco, and one cheese enchilada
Served with tortilla chips, our spicy homemade salsa, refried beans, rice, and your choice of red or green chile
Trout dinner with lightly breaded grilled fish
Liver and Onions Beef liver grilled with onions and bacon
served with soup or salad, a fresh mini loaf and a choice of mashed potatoes, baked potato, French fries, sautéed vegetables or rice pilaf.
Each dish enjoyed this evening brought a new experience to something familiar. We enjoyed the Navajo burger (with a vegetarian patty), club sandwich (served gluten-free) and Navajo taco (made with Blue Bird flour). Ellie enjoyed a milkshake and nibbling off everyone’s plate. Miss “Foodie” (Ellie) really recommends their fantastic french fries. The menu includes the Navajo language providing a fun conversation with the staff. We enjoyed the local flavors and expansion of cultures. The food to the ambiance provided a complete experience with cultural diversity.
Ranch House Grille
Ranch House Grille
This was a great place to meet with a high school friend and his beautiful wife. We enjoyed breakfast at Ranch House Grille. It was a very local place. Many entering the grill knew other patrons and shared stories of their families and community. It was a wonderful meal. Large portions, good café coffee, and great hash browns.
Utah Food
Ray’s Tavern
We stop in Green River just before Colorado. Lisa Sherman recommended having lunch at Ray’s Tavern. This was our first travel contest. Congrats, to Wes Hawkins at Utah Travels for knowing what city we were enjoying lunch. We ordered the chicken sandwich and a Garden Burger®. They had a Utah tradition on fry sauce, created by Don Carlos Edwards in the 1950s. It is as simple as ketchup and mayonnaise whipped together. I have seen variations with adding sour cream or buttermilk. This was a treat for sure. It was a great place. The waitress extremely friendly and the food fresh, including the fries.
Spicy Thai and Joe’s Cafe
Orem Utah Reunion Time Road Trip
Meeting up with my dear friend Lisa Sherman was like we never missed even one day, even though it had been a few decades. Lisa and I have known each other since we were three. We ran the neighborhood streets as two determined little girls could. We enjoyed breakfast at Joe’s Cafe. The food was so delish. Lisa even enjoyed the grits. A dish she was convinced she did not like. Joe said, “You will love them. Nothing comes between your lips and my grits.” It was so wonderful catching up with Lisa after all these years.
Dinner was a fabulous reunion with my bestie from high school, Brenda Anderson. She and I meet at the Spicy Thai in Orem. This was an excellent choice for the food was excellent. Their menu had a great selection of Thai food with the ability to choose your heat. The evening ended at her home where we spent time catching-up, relationships talk, and a little (very little) drinking. Her cute little dogs entertained up throughout the evening. They are both such a ball of energy.
Colorado Food
Aloha Poké Co.
Aloha Poké Co. provides a light refreshing meal with a wide choice of vegetables and rice. This is a perfect meal for this long day of road travel. Cherie and I sit outside enjoying lunch in the spring sun and looking back at the Rocky Mountains thinking a strong contrast from the last two days to the journey that lays in front of us.
Missouri Food
Sugarfire Smokehouse BBQ
Sugarfire Smokehouse BBQ St. Louis Missouri
St. Louis is known for its arch and barbecue. This being a late Sunday afternoon we realize that many locations are not open, but find one near the ball field, Sugarfire SmokeHouse BBQ! This is an award-winning restaurant under Chef Mike Johnson has studied with Myron Mixon, cooked under Emeril Lagasse and Charlie Trotter. It was a great experience of community, exceptional food (sweet potatoes the best) and BBQ pork and salmon.
Cincinnati, Hebron, and Indianapolis Food
3 Sisters Cafe
The first food stop of the trip is 3 Sisters Cafe in Indianapolis, Indiana, in business for 20 years. They serve a large choice of elegant breakfasts from sweet to savory and great lunch menu as well.
They have great beverages (no alcohol) with flair. I enjoyed the turmeric and ginger iced tea. It was a great flavor not too sweet or sugary. The brunch was perfect a great hollandaise sauce over Scottish lox, poached eggs, fresh tomato, and locally made English muffins with caviar on top. The English muffin was fresh with a nice sourdough flavor. The hollandaise sauce was perfect with just a little heat. The porridge was a new experience. It was creamy with a hint of cinnamon.
Hebron Grille
The evening meal was a quaint place in Hebron Kentucky called Hebron Grille. The waitress, Brenda, was so friendly and informative. She provides insight into the southern menu. I decide on the Catfish Grand Bayou. This was a meal for two. It was perfect for a later time as well.
The fish was perfectly cooked with Cajun spice, white wine, lemon, capers, diced tomatoes, grilled shrimp, crawfish, angel hair pasta, and grilled asparagus. The capers brought an exceptional flavor and salt to the dish. The crawfish is a wonderful additional treat.
Abby Girl Sweets Cupcakes
Saturday afternoon in Cincinnati Ohio, my niece and I stop by Abby Girl Sweets Cupcakes. This was a delightful find in the lobby of the Hilton Netherlands Hotel lobby. This little shop has a variety of sweet and moist cupcakes. We enjoyed the coconut, black raspberry chip, red velvet, and peanut butter cup. They were perfect after a long of competition at the USA Gymnastics event.
This business is owned and operated by Nathan & Andrea Thompson (husband and wife). The name comes from their daughter, Abby Girl, she is the top taster for the cupcakes. The cupcakes are sweet and well-flavored.
Champaign Illinois Food
The Midwest food is all American. The area settled by Europeans including Germans, British, Italian, Hungarians, and Scandinavians. The simple hearty foods with strong Christian influences continue today. The fusion food trend is not found here as much. You will find that true honest food as it was from the beginning.
This town is a place you find all American food. It is a place worth stopping and checking out the food scene. This area is in Central Illinois about 2.5 hours south of Chicago. The area surrounded by small farm and dairy communities. It is known for farmers markets, fresh dairy (yes you can buy fresh milk at the farm), ethnic foods, and the classic American food.
Sleepy Creek Vineyard Road Trip
Sleepy Creek Vineyards
Driving in from St. Louis, you take exit 206 from I-74. The winery is a great location to come for many events. Weekly they have local musicians, wieners and wine, and Winery Mary Bar Every Sunday. The winery has great yearly events from Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and more.
The wine is sweet not a real full-bodied wine. They have a jalapeño red wine they substitute with vodka in the bloody Mary served on Sunday. The place is beautiful and serene setting. Locals bring their picnic lunches, you can buy cheese and crackers, or at times, a food truck might be here. The day we were there they had a band playing in the large barn, a strong community presence sitting outside by the creek overlooking the vineyard.
The Courier Café Urbana
The Courier Café brings Champaign history and old Victorian styling in the decor. The main dining room has:
A large palace chandelier from the Opera House in Erie Pennsylvania
The cash register is the first electric cash register
The courier clock pendulum filled with mercury makes the time keeping right
The stained glass comes from a Danville church predating the Civil War
The Pullman lamps light the aisle for passengers on the Pullman railroad cars
The brass chimes a gift from George Malford, a Nickelodeon Maker, they are steamed powered
The Café’s name is for the Courier newspaper that operated for decades in the building. The building was almost lost to fire and remained empty for decades. In 1980, the current owners began remodeling and opened for business on November 10, 1980. They are a farm to table restaurant with the garden and bees on the property for the freshest ingredients.
The menu is a hearty all American menu with breakfast served daily until 11 AM then lunch and dinner menu until closing. The breakfast is traditional eggs, omelets, fantastic pancakes, and hash browns. Their coffee is fresh ground daily and they have special blends. The lunch/dinner menu is hearty with a ribeye sandwich, fries, soups, and steak. The food has that home cooked look and feel. They do have a few items for vegetarians including breakfast sausage. They do have one special treat “Courier water that is sparkling water from deep below the café. It is a great place for large parties and a sense of the community in Champaign.
Amaravati Indian Royal Cuisine Champaign
Amaravati Indian Royal Cuisine primarily brings Southern Indian cuisine to Champaign. Southern Indian cuisine based around rice, lentils, and stews. Dishes The authenticity found in the menu. The waitress knowledge of the menu and very helpful with the dishes.
Enjoying Paneer Tikka Masala with cubes of fresh cottage cheese cooked with green peas in an onion, tomato & cashew based sauce. Garnished with Kasturi methi and cashew pieces. The flavors linger on your pallet. The rice is perfectly cooked. Dessert is rasamalai it is juice and cream. It is a sweet and good amount of heat. This dish has a history of being created in Britain by a Bangladeshi chef.
Champaign Food Road Trip
Core Life Eatery Champaign
Entering the eatery, you hear a local band on an early Saturday morning. The eatery is a location of freshness and wholesome. The food is GMO, grass-fed steak, all-natural chicken, and no GMOs. The broths are center to the soups. You pick your ingredients from a fresh selection that looks like a produce stand.
The soup is heavy in a great vegetable broth the Sriracha soaked bean sprouts make a nice substitute for noodles and Sriracha brings heat to the soup. The kale and Napa cabbage are barely cooked by the hot broth this brings a freshness and crunch to the flavor. The shiitake mushrooms add texture to the soup. It is refreshing with flavors that linger on the plate.
Chicago Food
Chicago sits in the Midwest has a history of all American food. This history is changing to one of sophistication and elegance. The dining experience is one set for the various neighborhoods in Chicago. The traditional American and deep dish pizza is found in each area, but the elegance is found with 25 Michelin-starred restaurants. Chicago is known for their yearly Taste of Chicago a food and entertainment weekend usually held the second week of July. There is a covering deep dish pizza this is a bucket list trip with deep dish pizza on the list.
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria Road Trip
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
This was a fantastic place to take a crowd for lunch. There was a little bit of a wait but well worth the wait. They do allow you to order ahead of time. The entire party pizza enjoyed the pizza. They had great selections with gluten-free and vegetarian options. The gluten-free crust was one of the best. They have a real family feeling to the pizzeria.
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria is a local favorite. The first restaurant opened by Lou, an Italian, opened a pizzeria in a Jewish neighborhood on an Irish holiday in 1971. They are always busy at all 51 locations in the Chicago area. Each pizza is hand created to each patron’s desire.
Pequod Pizza Chicago
Pequod Pizza, 25 years in business, is a popular place in Lincoln Park. We arrive with the dreams of deep crust pizza and watch the Cubs play ball. Arriving we realize that the wait is down the street. Heading into the small hostess station they tell us, “there is an hour for a table about another hour for service from seating.” We walk around the block and decide to find a place with appetizers to wait out the hour seating time. We find a great place called Distilled Chicago.
New York City mayor’s press secretary Eric Phillips has put in his vote on Twitter for the best pizza “Chicago pizza is the best pizza in America, and it’s not even close.” The tweet has a photo of Chicago-style deep dish pizza from Pequod’s. We return for our pizza as our buzzer for the table goes off.
We take the pizza back to the Air BNB for snacking and dinner on Saturday evening. It is a fabulous bucket list experience. Normally a thin crust pizza lover this was a true experience. The crust is caramelized and not as heavy as expected. The cheese strings as you take a bite making it a true cheese pizza. The sauce is the best to date. It is loud and excitable as the patrons are enjoying the final innings of the Cubs game.
Distilled Chicago
Distilled Chicago was a fantastic find just down the street from Pequod Pizza in West Lincoln Park. We sit at the bar. The decor is black and gold with an early 19th century feel. The Cub’s are playing on the TV. It is neighborhood experience as locals enter to enjoy the local menu with a modern twist on bar favorites. We enjoy a glass of wine and a beer. It is best known for being a whiskey bar with our 100 varieties. These are paired with the menu items.
The food is fabulous. We order the mac ‘n’ cheese bits, sliders with fries, and Italian beef egg rolls. The Italian beef rolls turn out to be a delightful surprise with the Au Jus Sauce. This fusion of Asian and Italian together well and our the favorite of the night. The mac ‘n’ cheese bits are crispy and tasty. The dipping sauce is house ranch. There is a good textual experience. The fries are crispy and the bacon jam brings the classic slider to a unique experience the arugula brings a fresh peppery flavor, caramelized onions, and the top quality Angus beef takes a bar classic to elegance. This became dinner. It is a great place to enjoy a ball game, the community, and an American classic menu with an elevation.
Scone City
Scone City located in Wicker Park is wonderful for a morning after bar hopping or late night in Chicago. Jessica and Tim Canning along with chef Laurie McNamara took on the endeavor in a specialized sweet and savory scone menu. This place was perfect stop as my sister Cherie is heading to the airport to return to her family in Idaho. It was so wonderful sharing this experience with here. Seeing places and enjoying the cross-country journey. I truly miss her every day. She enjoyed a sweet blueberry w/ lemon glaze scone she says, “It was delicious!! Sweet. Soft. Perfection!!! Soooo tasty.” They have savory scones as well. I enjoyed a hot Vanilla Bean Latte with the house-made vanilla syrup. It is a perfect start to a day of exploring Chicago.
Bangers and Lace
Bangers and Lace, a local bar in Wicker Park, has a rustic lodge atmosphere and is a great place for a good drink and great company. The patrons are friendly. The bartender for the evening was an instant win with a Big Lebowski shirt. The best feature is the is the classic beer tap handles. The restaurant’s name is Bangers for the British term for sausage and Lace for Brussels Lace, the intricate veil of beer foam that clings to the glass side. This was a great evening spot near the Air BNB for cocktails and a glass of wine. They have a menu of sausages, English beans, vegetarian option, and Belgian fries.
The atmosphere is friendly, fun, and did get crowded as the night went on. It is a great place for sports, conversation, and good drinks. What a fun experience.
Kanela Chicago Road Trip
The last morning of the road trip in the Midwest is brunch at Kanela, the Greek name for Cinnamon. This restaurant place is Wicker Park neighborhood on a street with many older shops. It is a great place, voted best in Chicago by USA Today, for a Sunday morning brunch. The coffee tops and wonderful after an evening at Bangers and Lace.
Brunch includes California Benedict and Fried Egg Sandwich this was an exceptional meal. The hollandaise sauce perfection with a nice touch of heat, the poach egg picture perfect. The sandwich was fabulous with the chili aioli brings the flavors together. The seasoned potatoes nicely cooked not too soft or undercooked. It was a nice brunch with my sister. We do agree that this is a great place for brunch.
New York City Food
Wild Ginger NYC
Wild Ginger NYC
This quaint Asian Fusion restaurant is next door to my hotel, Pod 51, in Midtown New York. Thankful for this find after being delayed at the airport. The restaurant is full of large parties enjoying an order your favorite roll and share mine. I can hear them discussing what they like about each other’s choices. That is a fun way to enjoy a menu. The decor is transforming, and fitting for the theme. The menu filled with a variety of traditional Asian and fusion dishes like Singapore thin rice noodles. Enjoyed steamed veggie dumplings, salmon roll, and mermaid roll. The sauce on the plate is sweet, sour, and a little heat. The food is fresh and elegant.
Milk Bar NYC
Milk Bar NYC
Super excited to try crack pie and coffee for breakfast. This is a planned find in NYC. Watching Chef’s Table on Netflix. I knew I needed to try Milk Bar. This is Christine Tosi’s and is part of the Manhattan-based Momofuku restaurant. This is my first stop in the morning. The little shop has great cookies, cakes, pies, and bagel bombs. I order an iced coffee, bagel bomb with spinach, and crack pie. The bagel bomb warm and filled with spinach and cheese. It is a nice bite for the start of touring NYC. I save the crack pie for a little later, but it is delicious. The filling is something like a custard, but buttery. The oat crust is light and flaky. This is a must stop and see.
Pizza NYC
$1 Pizza NYC
The little find during the day is Market Pizza. It is a small little shop off 6th ave. It is $2.99 for two slices of pizza and soda. This is a great place for a traditional New York pizza. It is good, friendly, and always ready. They have a variety of pizzas. There is a small communal area to sit to eat your pizza before heading back on my NYC adventure. Always fun to explore these great places.
Pescatore NYC
Pescatore NYC
Walking Midtown after a day of exploring and the fashion event it is overwhelming with the choices near the hotel. The restaurants’ selection vast and enticing aromas. The dilemma is decided as rain begins to fall. I wonder into Pescatore. It is a traditional setting with the seasonal tulips on each table. My waiter is Bryan Royas. He is very informative about the menu and attentive.
It is a really amazing experience to see spaghetti Carbonaro done tableside. This dish is pancetta, onions, pecorino cheese & egg mixed in a Parmigiano wheel. The family sitting near me order this dish. There is something about seeing the food prepared tableside. The smells, sounds, and visual bring anticipation.
I enjoy pasta ripiena, warm bread, with Bousquet Mendoza Argentina Malbec, and dessert. The staff that brings me zeppoles with fruit dipped in brandy. The ripiena is homemade pasta sheet stuffed with fresh spinach, ricotta, topped with tomato sauce and crispy parmigiana. The homemade pasta is delectable and the tomato sauce fresh. The dessert is light and sweet the vanilla, chocolate, and raspberry sauces. The raspberry sauce is my favorite brings a little tart to the sweet. The fruit with the brandy is scrumptious.
Wilmington North Carolina Food
Kilwins Chocolate Wilmington NC
This is a must stop when visiting Wilmington You can smell the sweetness down the street. This is just the start of the sensory experience provided. When entering the story your eyes are drawn to all the beautiful handcrafted chocolates and sweets. Located in the Historic Downtown. Ice cream is a popular treat in Wilmington. Kilwins makes bomb waffle cones, exceptional chocolates, and it is worth the wait.
They make their own ice cream from their original recipe with 40 premium, unique and delicious flavors including Mackinac Island Fudge. They use local farms for ingredients. The chocolate creations are amazing.
Mission BBQ Wilmington NC
Mission BBQ Wilmington NC
Always looking for good BBQ traveling across the country. Each area has their own special BBQ. Wilmington’s Mission BBQ is American and traditional to the area. This place brings the flavors of the region to dinner. Enjoying collard greens made with tomatoes, mac-n-cheese, and green beans with bacon, brisket and NC Style pulled pork with the vinegar BBQ (this food tradition is from original settlers, African slaves on plantations and modern ones). This is an Eastern-style sauce that is vinegar and pepper, no tomatoes. Bar-b-que is serious here making it all the way to state Congress to declare the official barbeque.
Mission BBQ opened 09/11/11 ten years after 911. There is a tradition in the 52 restaurants stops at noon on Fridays to honor the military members and stars and stripes. The decor follows this continued theme with a patriotic dining room full of tributes to those who make our country great. There is really nothing more American than a barbeque.
Wilmington North Carolina is history, fabulous food, sea, beaches, and boardwalks. The town is celebrating 275 years of rich history of food and life in America. One of the most southeastern cities in the US is a great escape for a beautiful vacation.
Explorations
Battleship North Carolina Wilmington NC
Battleship North Carolina Wilmington NC
This ship begs visitors to come aboard. It is visible from downtown. In 1960 the ship commissioned to honor the men that served and keep the ship’s history.
Battleship North Carolina was the first to be constructed in sixteen years in New York in 1937. The history during wartime is 144 commissioned officers and 2,195 enlisted men, including about 100 Marines. This ship participated in every major naval offensive in the Pacific and saving the carrier Enterprise. The ship earned 15 battle stars. They only lost ten men in action and 67 injuries.
Exploring the ship you get a sense of daily life and a feel for battle. It is cramped and you do have to go up and down stairs to see the ship so proper footwear is important. It makes you think about being out to sea for months on end with the same people, cramped quarters, and war around you. This is a must see when coming to town.
Cape Fear River Wilmington NC
Cape Fear River Wilmington NC
This river is the connection to the Atlantic Ocean. This river brings ships from all over the world to Wilmington. There are many restaurants that have great views of the river and sunsets. It is a fun place to enjoy a good pub crawl, but most bars in the area do not have happy hours.
For centuries this port has brought Europeans to America. Cape Fear River was often used for fleeing slaves to escape slavery. Orange Street is where 22 slaves escaped to freedom by way of the Cape Fear River. Orange Street place designated in 2005 by the National Park Service as part of its National Underground Railroad Network (click link to read about the Levi home) to Freedom Program. The National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program is to preserve and commemorate the history of the Underground Railroad.
There is plenty to see and do in Wilmington for families, history buffs, and couples from:
This is a must stop when visiting Wilmington You can smell the sweetness down the street. This is just the start of the sensory experience provided. When entering the story your eyes are drawn to all the beautiful handcrafted chocolates and sweets. Located in the Historic Downtown. Ice cream is a popular treat in Wilmington. Kilwins makes bomb waffle cones, exceptional chocolates, and it is worth the wait.
They make their own ice cream from their original recipe with 40 premium, unique and delicious flavors including Mackinac Island Fudge. They use local farms for ingredients. The chocolate creations are amazing.
Mission BBQ Wilmington NC
Mission BBQ Wilmington NC
Always looking for good BBQ traveling across the country. Each area has their own special BBQ. Wilmington’s Mission BBQ is American and traditional to the area. This place brings the flavors of the region to dinner. Enjoying collard greens made with tomatoes, mac-n-cheese, and green beans with bacon, brisket and NC Style pulled pork with the vinegar BBQ (this food tradition is from original settlers, African slaves on plantations and modern ones). This is an Eastern-style sauce that is vinegar and pepper, no tomatoes. Bar-b-que is serious here making it all the way to state Congress to declare the official bar-b-q.
Mission BBQ opened 09/11/11 ten years after 911. There is a tradition in the 52 restaurants stops at noon on Fridays to honor the military members and stars and stripes. The decor follows this continued theme with a patriotic dining room full of tributes to those who make our country great. There is really nothing more American than a barbeque.
The staff is exceptional and give a lot of insight to the food and history. The food is a delicious find.
@4ChionLifestyle
Photo credit and travel collaboration Raymond L. Forchion Jr.
Miami Swim Week is exceptional beautiful fashion, people, and place. Art Hearts Fashion Week celebrating 10 years presents a wonderful fashion week.
The party starts before the runway gets underway with a model party and a yacht ride to work. The fashion designers present collections perfect for your swim adventure with swimwear, resort wear, formal wear for the evening, and menswear.
Mister Triple X Miami Swim Week
Mr. Triple X Miami Swim Week
Creative director Erik Rosete (director of Art Hearts Fashion Week). This collection presents a modern 1940s vintage look. The styling continues the designs with 1940s victory rolls in hair paired with a modern edge. The makeup is a vintage red/orange lips with a sleek winged liner a truly vintage look.
Mr. Triple X fashion line is high-end streetwear that embraces their inner rock star. This swim collection continues with the lines bold prints and neutral softer color tones. This brings the inner rock star style to any beach.
Bob Hale Miami Swim Week
Hale Bob Miami Swim Week
Hale Bob collection continues with the confident women who enjoy femininity, comfort, and prints for the summertime fun. This collection brings silk to the evening and ready-wear. Silk provides a sensual look with a nice cool fabric for summer. The great prints for summer with the season trend orange. The entire line from print to completion is developed in their own shop.
The collection has a real chic sexy look from the prints to the designs. The designs capture movement and transformation. The collection is perfect for your resort getaway to any beach, boat, or poolside. The scarfs are nice styling touch for summer after a day in the water. The collection is great for mixing prints and creating a personal style.
Trina Turk and Mr. Turk Miami Swim Week
Trina Turk and Mr. Turk Miami Swim Week
Trina Turk presents Mr. Turk on the Miami Swim Week runway. The men’s swimwear includes bold print swimwear and open tops. The laid-back stand out styling is perfect for any boating or riding a Ski-Doo.
The women’s swimwear line is continuing that stand out fashion. The inspiration is a multicultural mix, creativity, craftsmanship, architecture, and colorful aesthetic. The summer line includes stripes, bright colors, and bold prints. The cover-ups match the swimsuit or you can mix and match for a personal approach.
The makeup and hair is an effortless look. Simplicity in both the makeup and hair. Makeup light dusting of cheek color as well as lip color to give a fresh sun-kissed glow. Minimal beach waves in hair for that just fresh from a stroll on the beach look. The continues the carefree glamour.
Fernando Alberto Atelier Miami Swim Week
Fernando Alberto Atelier Miami Swim Week
Alberto carries on the family tradition (3rd generation) of elegant fashion with his summer swimwear. He brings sophistication and luxury to the poolside. The accessories create a real personal statement while at the pool. The large wicker purses perfect for sunscreen, towels, and favorite fashion magazine.
Willfredo Gerardo Miami Swim Week Art Hearts
Willfredo Gerardo Miami Swim Week
Gerardo uses lines to bring dimension to the swimwear. The play with lines from prints to the layout of the swimwear brings fun and flirty. The styling for this runway continues the theme with glowing skin with nude lips. Pops of gold and violet on eyes. Sleek back wet look to hair. This is a great look for your beach trip.
Summer Beauty Trends
Summer beauty trends from Miami Swim Week from April Love-Medrano, stylist for swim week, says this summer, “makeup trends this season is definitely glowing skin. This is achieved by adding illuminating drops to your favorite liquid foundation and set with a light dusting of a pearlized powder. For eyes, pops of gold and purples and very natural wispy lashes.
Summer is just underway. What is your favorite summertime beach? Post your answers here #4ChionStyle.
Taking on Midtown Manhattan NYC is a wonderful whirlwind of fun explorations. The time here is brief but full of beautiful fashion, food, and fun.
Exploring Midtown NYC
Empire State Building
Empire State Building NYC
The building that I had seen in films comes to life today. Entering the lobby I see the beauty of the original interior. This lobby is a historic landmark by the Landmarks Preservation Commission. The lobby’s recent restoration took 18 months to complete. It is an art deco design resembling the original design. The interior is marble, 24-karat gold and aluminum leaf with a large clock, gears, regional map, and a replication of the Empire State Building. There is a rush of people following through the lobby please stop a moment to look around at the details.
Moving through the process to get to the 86th floor you explore the history, the details about the building’s sustainability, and the 80th floor a Dare to Dream exhibit. This is a great experience. Walking the last few flights of stairs to the 86th floor was a lot of fun.
Reaching the 86th floor I am breathless, from climbing the stairs and looking over NYC. It is crowded and people are speaking many languages.
It is amazing to finally be here and see the vastness of the land, water, and buildings. You can see the city below and really don’t hear the commotion. The beauty above is amazing as you look up to see the rest of the building and the blue sky with clouds. It is an experience to not miss while in Midtown NYC.
Midtown NYC
Midtown is the history, fashion, and food of NYC. It is such a wonderful place to explore. The top tourist attraction is within walking distance. The LOVE statue is one of many found around the world. This was first created for print by Robert Indiana.
The love of community is found as I stroll the streets. The beautiful churches, Central Park, and shopping bring NYC home. The families pushing their strollers, skateboarders, and tourist head to Central Park. The park has statues, the Great Lawn (the world-famous lawn), and vendors. It is a wonderful place in the center of town.
There is so much in this area from Radio City Hall, Rockefeller Center, and fashion. It is like a fashion runway down Madison Ave. You find the top fashion designer shops with exceptional windows displaying the latest fashion. I venture in an Uber through Time Square. It is fun seeing the hustle and bustle that is Time Square from the car.
Afterwards exploring Midtown it is time for fashion. Uber takes me to FDC Young Designer Fashion show at The Paul Hotel. This is a quaint fashion event.
The evening concludes watching the full moon rise over the high rises. It is a wonderful experience to be on the rooftop of the hotel and just be still for 20 minutes. It is a perfect trip.
NYC Fashion
Food NYC
Wild Ginger NYC
Wild Ginger NYC
This quaint Asian Fusion restaurant is next door to my hotel, Pod 51, in Midtown New York. This is the first food stop in Manhattan. Thankful for this find after being delayed at the airport. The restaurant is full of large parties enjoying an order your favorite roll and share mine. I can hear them discussing what they like about each other’s choices. That is a fun way to enjoy a menu. The decor is transforming, and fitting for the theme. The menu is filled with a variety of traditional Asian and fusion dishes like Singapore thin rice noodles. Enjoyed steamed veggie dumplings, salmon roll, and mermaid roll. The sauce on the plate is sweet, sour, and a little heat. The food is fresh and elegant.
Milk Bar NYC
Milk Bar NYC
I am excited to try crack pie and coffee for breakfast. This is a planned find in NYC. Watching Chef’s Table on Netflix. I knew I needed to try Milk Bar. This is Christine Tosi’s bakery and is part of the Manhattan-based Momofuku restaurant.
This is my first stop in the morning. The little shop has great cookies, cakes, pies, and bagel bombs. I order an iced coffee, bagel bomb with spinach, and crack pie. The bagel bomb warm and filled with spinach and cheese. It is a nice bite for the start of touring NYC.
I save the crack pie for a little later, but it is delicious. The filling is something like a custard, but buttery. The oat crust is light and flaky. This is a must stop and see.
Pizza NYC
$1 Pizza NYC
The little find during the day is Market Pizza. It is a small little shop off 6th ave. It is $2.99 for two slices of pizza and soda. This is a great place for a traditional New York pizza. It is good, friendly, and always ready. They have a variety of pizzas. There is a small communal area to sit and eat your pizza before heading back on my NYC adventure. Always fun to explore these great places.
Pescatore NYC
Pescatore NYC
Walking Midtown after a day of exploring and the fashion event I am overwhelmed with the choices near the hotel. The restaurants’ selection vast and enticing aromas. This is the last stop for food in New York City. The dilemma is decided as rain begins to fall. I wonder into Pescatore. It is a traditional setting with the seasonal tulips on each table. My waiter is Bryan Royas. He is very informative about the menu and attentive.
It is a really amazing experience to see spaghetti Carbonaro prepared tableside. This dish is pancetta, onions, pecorino cheese & egg mixed in a Parmigiano wheel. The family sitting near me order this dish. There is something about seeing the food prepared tableside. The smells, sounds, and visual bring anticipation.
I enjoy pasta ripiena, warm bread, with Bousquet Mendoza Argentina Malbec, and dessert. The staff that brings me zeppoles with fruit dipped in brandy. The ripiena is homemade pasta sheet stuffed with fresh spinach, ricotta, topped with tomato sauce and crispy parmigiana.
The homemade pasta is delectable and the tomato sauce fresh. The dessert is light and sweet the vanilla, chocolate, and raspberry sauces. The raspberry sauce is my favorite brings a little tart to the sweet. The fruit with the brandy is scrumptious.
Loved the 48 hours in Midtown and look forward to returning. It is a wonderful exploration. What are your favorite places in Midtown? Post your answer and photo #4ChionStyle here.
@4ChionLifestyle
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