And then Thomas Keller said, “Let there be Food”

My affair with Thomas Keller began years ago in a San Francisco bookstore where I sat in awe flipping through the pages of his French Laundry masterpiece cookbook. What inspired me the most was how he began learning how to cook. Just this year, I’ve had the splendid opportunity to experience three of his award winning establishments: Bouchon Vegas, Bouchon Bakery and most recently, a fabulous 5-course chef’s tasting and wine pairing at Per Se for Sunday lunch.

Out of curiousity, I managed to find us lunch reservations just a couple days in advance. Given the economy, one has to wonder if this was being too extravagant. Was it worth it? Absolutely. As we were close to finishing our fifth tasting, we began to wish we’d opted for the 9-course tasting. Each dish was an extraordinary journey on the palette.

Of course, it would be remiss of me to not mention the exceptional wine accompaniment. For the Riesling, we were presented with two different vintages from 2006 and 1992. Just by color alone and then by taste, we experienced how wine truly ages to perfection. Our favorite of the pairings was the 2006 Vaona Amarone Riserva. We enjoyed it so much that we both had a second glass on the side.

Culinary Explorer’s Tips:

1. Go early for a leisurely Sunday lunch – plan on 2-4 hours for the complete experience
2. For dinner reservations – try Mondays when there is more availability
3. Jackets for men, bien sur – the church goers know their fashion

P.S. Ever since brunching at Thomas Keller’s Bouchon in Vegas, the Mister has been on an ultimate quest for the best Bloody Mary (without horse radish please) in New York. It’s not surprising that the closest contender is none other than Thomas Keller’s version at Per Se.

Three Years in New York

:: home in chelsea ::

I gave myself two years to love or leave New York.
It’s three years later and New York finally feels like “home.”

*****

Thank you all for being here with me.

Today’s Fortune Cookie

I read a good fortune cookie recently and saved the note:

“Define yourself before your detractors do [in bed].”

LOL

One Word Resolution of 2009

“For 2009, the goal is simple: BRANDIFICATION.”

Each new year, I come up with a single word theme for my resolution. For 2009, it’s about personal BRANDIFICATION – letting my best attributes stand out in every aspect.

New Year’s Eve Reminder

On New Year’s Eve, I met a wise and wildly Italian woman who reminded me of an early life lesson learned.

She looked me straight in the eyes and implored, “It’s like that everywhere and in anyone you might meet. Do you understand what I mean?”

I nodded.

It’s been a while now, but I still believe in signs.

Friends call him ‘Big,’ I call him ‘Babe’

:: ciesta time in mexico ::

Early in the movie Sex and the City, there’s a scene where Carrie and Big are in bed together. They’re reading and sharing reading glasses. It’s a portrait of sweetness that embraces age and intimacy.

One of my many favorite moments with Babe, is laying next to him reading. Sometimes I’ll have a book of my own. Most of the times, I just enjoy laying next to him with my head on his chest. When you’re that close and comfortable with someone, it’s truly special.

Reason#46 to leave New York: DECEMBER BLUES

gansevoort south beachfront, miami

Unless there’s snow, ski slopes, and a fireplace involved, winter is just not one of my favorite seasons. So to escape the nineteen degree December blues in New York, I treated my seasonal affective disorder (SAD) with a weekend of natural sunlight in Miami. We evolved under the sun, and it’s only natural that some fresh sunlight, air and ocean can make any day better.

Reason #45 to leave New York: THANKSGIVING IN DALLAS

flying grins & giggles

There are two incredible feelings in the world: 1) being greeted at the airport by a gangful of grins & giggles, and 2) jumping carefree off the grown ups’ bed. My trip was a shorter visit than usual, but worth every stretch of the miles.

Every night should be this sweet

Just after we turn off the lights and crawl under the covers…

“Goodnight Jada, I love you,” I whisper.

“I love you more,” she says.

“I love you always,” I respond.

Every night should be this sweet.

Traveling on Thanksgiving

thanksgiving travelers, ohare airport

There are many thoughts that can cross your mind when traveling on Thanksgiving. I’m sitting here at a bar in the Chicago O’Hare airport, waiting for my connecting flight to Dallas. With the waves of travelers passing by, I wonder, what’s everyone’s story? Where have they been and are they headed?

I’m feeling nostalgic and pensive about the holidays. If I could replay my life through Thanksgiving memories, it would be a montage of traveling from one point to another between then and now.

Movement. Isn’t that what life’s about?

Perfect moments can be fleeting. But finding the right momentum can propel you in all the right directions. So this year, I give special thanks to all the lovely family, friends and forces for helping me arrive.