The Black Dress Traveler

Mango Madness in St. Lucia at Jade Mountain Resort

"On St. Lucia, each mango offers a different flavor, texture and color. Each dictates its own culinary destination."
Chef Allen Susser - author of The Great Mango Book and National Mango Board Spokesman   

Juicy, sweet, and simply irresistible, mangos always take your tastebuds on a trip to the tropics. Well, why not go right to the source in St. Lucia and indulge in some delicious mango madness at Jade Mountain Resort' s 6th Annual Mango Festival from June 7-11.

Hosted by James Beard award-winning Chef Allen Susser, the Mango Madness Festival is also known as "1001 Things To Do With Mangos Before You Die."  The festival includes an interactive mango cooking class, a Mango Madness Cocktail Party, a tasting trip with Chef Allen to sample 10 varieties of St. Lucia mangos, the Night of the 1000 Mangos -  a 5-course exotic dinner at the Jade Mountain Club, and many more mango-centric events.


A Condé Nast Gold List winner, Jade Mountain Resort rises majestically above the 600 acre beach front resort of Anse Chastanet.  The property expands upon architect & owner Nick Troubetzkoy's philosophy of building in harmony with Caribbean nature.

To learn more about Jade Mountain Resort and the Mango Madness Festival, visit their website.

Bet Your Dining Dollars on the 4th Annual LUCKYRICE Festival in NYC

image courtesy LUCKYRICE

Save the date and rev up your appetites for the 4th Annual LUCKYRICE Festival in New York City. Presented by BOMBAY SAPPHIRE^® EAST Gin and benefiting City Harvest, the Asian culinary festival returns to New York City from April 29 – May 5, 2013 before kicking off a national tour to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Miami.

image courtesy LUCKYRICE

LUCKYRICE festivities include the Night Market, Grand Feast, Cocktail Feast, and the new LUCKYRICE Parlor - a week of dinner parties helmed by chefs such as Danny Bowien (Mission Chinese Food, NY), Ivan Orkin (Ivan Ramen, Tokyo) and Saipin Chutima (Lotus of Siam, Las Vegas) at the old Bowery Station in downtown Manhattan. The LUCKYRICE Culinary Council is a veritable dream team of chefs and includes José Andrés, Daniel Boulud, Anthony Bourdain, Floyd Cardoz, David Chang, Susur Lee, Anita Lo, Masaharu Morimoto, Eric Ripert, Marcus Samuelsson, and Jean-Georges Vongerichten. 




In honor of 2013 as the Year of the Snake, all LUCKYRICE events will feature the signature Bombay Sapphire East 'Snake in the Glass Cocktail.
1.5 oz. Bombay Sapphire EAST
1/2 oz. Lemongrass Infused Snake Shochu
3/4 oz. Cinnamon infused Martini Rosso
3/4 oz. Fresh Mandarin Juice
Pinch of Mandarin spiced tea - sprinkle over lit match or flame to toast onto cocktail.
Lemongrass Stalk Garnish
Shake and serve on the rocks. (Rocks Glass)

LUCKYRICE VIP Festival Passes are $400 but many events are available a la carte for $88 (did you know 8 is considered a lucky number in many Asian cultures?)  Click here for more information on how to eat, drink and get lucky at LUCKYRICE. 

Tasty Times Await at the Albany Chefs' Food & Wine Festival

Doing something that you love is the perfect way to celebrate the start of the new year! Travel, food, and wine are my passions, so I am very excited about kicking off 2013 with a trip the Albany Chefs' Food & Wine Festival: Wine and Dine for the Arts (January 17-19). This culinary extravaganza will feature 250 global wines, spirits and craft beers, 60 chefs & restaurants, and 8 exciting events. The funds raised will benefit non-profit arts organizations in Albany, New York. A reception at City Hall, a Grand Tasting, a Slider Slam, and a Grand Gala Reception & 6-Course Dinner are a few of the great events on the schedule. There will even be two competitions: the Adirondack Appliance Signature Chef Invitational and the Barista Albany throwdown.

Chef Suvir Saran

One of my favorite chefs and all-around cool guy, the extremely talented and charming Suvir Saran, is the Festival Honorary Chef. Chef Saran will be signing copies of his James Beard Award nominated book Masala Farm at a VIP reception on Friday, January 18th. Not only has Chef Saran earned a prestigious Michelin Star, he was an absolute breakout star on season 3 of Bravo's Top Chef Masters. To support the live auction at the Grand Gala, Chef Saran has generously donated a 4 course dinner, plus dessert and wine for 8 people at his beautiful American Masala Farm in Washington County (Upstate NY).

Yours truly will be at the Albany Chefs' Food & Wine Festival and I'm really looking forward to tasting the delicious creations that the Capital City chefs will cook up! Ticket prices for the various events are quite reasonable ($35-$160) and most activities take place at the Hotel Albany. An All-Access VIP Pass is $900 and includes 2 tickets to ALL events and a copy of Chef Saran's book.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Albany Chefs' Food & Wine Festival website. Hope to see you there!

Save the Date: Rue des Beaujolais in NYC

Wine lovers around the world thirstily anticipate the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau. The first wine of the harvest, French law dictates that Beaujolais Nouveau is released at one minute past midnight on the third Thursday of November. And, when this young and fruit-forward red wine made from the Gamay grape makes her grand entrance, the celebrations begin! I have a special place in my heart for Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau - it was the first bottle of wine that my Dad gave me when I turned 18.


If you are in New York City on November 15th, join in the fun by taking a stroll down Rue des Beaujolais. This day-long soiree will transform 451 Washington Street into Rue des Beaujolais and is being live streamed with the celebration in Lyon, France. Event highlights include a tasting of Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau and all 10 crus of Beaujolais, a book signing with culinary ambassador Jacques Pepin, live music by Franglais, prix-fixe meals (lunch $25, dinner $35) served buffet style by Capsouto Frères, and Franck Duboeuf (co-owner of Les Vins de Georges Duboeuf) will be in attendance.

“I am happy to transform my restaurant Capsouto Frères into a Beaujolais plaza, with street signs to all 9 cru villages and an almost life size rendition of the famous Moulin à Vent!,” said Jacques Capsouto, President of the Compagnons du Beaujolais, Devoir de NY.

Sounds like Rue Des Beaujolais is going to be quite a celebration!

UPDATE: Due to damage caused by Hurricane Sandy, the location for this event has changed to L'Express (249 Park Avenue South). Visit ruedesbeaujolais.com and compagnonsdubeaujolaisny.com for more details.

Tasty Travels: Food & Wine Events in Portland, Oregon

Portland Skyline (image courtesy Travel Portland)

Portland, Oregon has earned quite a reputation as a top-notch culinary destination. From farm-to-table restaurants to gourmet food trucks, I've heard that Portland folks are beyond passionate about their eats. If your travels take you to Portland, here are three tasty events to add to your itinerary.



 Spain's Great Match: Wine & Tapas
Monday, October 29. 6-9PM, Leftbank Annex
$40 for early-bird tickets purchased by Oct. 5, $50 after.
Enjoy a festive evening of Spanish wine, food, and music at this cool walk-around tasting. Discover the most important Spanish grapes and regions while tasting over 150 wines and noshing on signature tapas from eight acclaimed Spanish restaurants in Portland.
(There will also be a Great Match event in NYC on Wednesday, October 24th)



Great American Distillers Festival
Friday, October 19th & Saturday, October 20th. Tiffany Center
$15 for a one-day pass, $25 for a two-day pass
If you love spirits, don't miss this gathering of small distillers from across the country who come to Portland to share their products, passion and  expertise in handcrafting spirits.There will be tastings, seminars, a mixology contest for bartenders and more - sounds delicious!

Izakaya Japanese Pub Fest at the Jupiter Hotel
Friday, November 16. 5:30PM - 9PM.
$40 early-bird ticket available until November 2, prices will then go to $45.
For overnight stays, the Jupiter Hotel is offering a package with rooms starting at $76.

Marilyn Monroe watches over a room at the Jupiter Hotel

Izakaya is a true celebration of Japanese pub culture. The name itself is deeply rooted in Japanese custom; an izakaya (pronounced ee-Zah-ka-ya) is a traditional Japanese pub, where patrons go to unwind and enjoy good company, small plates, and drink. Hosted at the Jupiter Hotel, Izakaya will showcase an expansive collection of local and international saké, varieties of beer, shochu, and traditional Japanese-inspired cuisine, artists, and DJ’s. Guest experiences will range from custom visual arts and light installations, a color-coded floor plan that mimics the rail system in Japan, to individual hotel rooms converted into themed, interactive spaces. Proceeds from Izakaya will benefit the Japan-America Society of Oregon (JASO).

 

For more information about what to see, do, eat, and sip in Portland, visit the Travel Portland website.

 

 

 

 

A New York Minute: Films for Foodies & A Trilogy of Art Shows

There's always something fabulous happening in New York City. Here are some great events worth adding to your itinerary whether you live in the Big Apple or just visiting our amazing city.

Kirsten Dunst indulging in cakes, cakes, and more cakes as the title character in Sofia Coppola's film Marie Antoinette.

Cinema Tuesdays: Films for Foodies at the French Institute/Alliance Francaise
Tuesday, October 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30, 2012
$10 per film
From coq au vin to crème brulée, the French know great food. Films for Foodies! not only reflects the range of French cuisine—from the fabulous meals at Versailles during the reign of Louis XVI to the extraordinary intensity of a Michelin three-star kitchen—but also delves into cinema’s celebration of French culinary heritage. Celebrated food and travel columnist for Esquire magazine and series co-curator John Mariani will introduce each film and moderate post-screening discussions with luminaries from New York’s culinary world, including Ariane Daguin (owner of the renowned gourmet purveyor D’Artagnan Foods), pâtissier François Payard, Belgian master chocolatier Laurent Gerbaud, and James Beard award-winning chef Jean-Louis Gerin.


Contemporary Art Fair NYC, American Craft Show NYC, and Art Off the Main
October 19, 20, 21 at the Javits Center.
$14 - Three shows, one admission.
Museums aren't the only places in town to see amazing art.The Contemporary Art Fair NYC provides a major showing of independent painters, photographers, sculptors and other artists doing non-functional work. The counterpart show, The American Craft Show NYC, features the work of fine artisans working with glass, ceramic, wood, and other materials. ART OFF the MAIN is the first fair ever to showcase the combined works from Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America.

 

Savor Spain in NYC: El Coto de Rioja Paella Parade

There are several words in Spanish that get me quite excited - Antonio Banderas, más vino, and paella! My love affair with paella, Spain's signature rice dish, began when I was a student in Barcelona and it has yet to wane. I'm always searching for the best paella in New York City and thanks to the organizers of the 4th Annual El Coto de Rioja Paella Parade, I don't have to look far. Produced by Frederick Wildman & Sons (wine & spirits importers), this savory celebration showcases some of the best paella making restaurants around town. The paella interpretations range from classic to modern and are served with the wonderful wines of El Coto de Rioja - the leading brand in Spain. The outdoor preparation of the paella in traditional pans really enhances the authenticity of the celebration. I've attended El Coto de Rioja Paella Parade twice before and it is one of my favorite food events.

El Coto de Rioja Paella Parade is scheduled for Monday, October 1st from 6-9pm at Beekman Beer Garden (North Side of Pier 17 at South Street Seaport). The price is $50 per person and $90 for two and includes generous sample portions of all paellas and wines from El Coto de Rioja. Participating restaurants include Lizarran, El Paso Restaurant, Solera, Sala 19, Pampano, Chelsea Market and more. Click here to order tickets.  A portion of the proceeds will benefit Action Against Hunger and New York City College of Technology, Department of Hospitality Management.

PS. I could not resist including this delicious photo of Antonio Banderas preparing paella. He won't be at El Coto de Rioja Paella Parade but a chica can dream!

Tasty Travels: Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival

   "It is always a great pleasure to be back in Newport. 
For me, it is like going to Versailles by the sea."
Jacques Pépin

Newport, Rhode Island is already one of the most fabulous places I've ever visited but the 7th Annual Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival clearly takes the wow factor to another delicious level. Presented by FOOD & WINE Magazine, the celebration is scheduled for September 21-23rd and features a full weekend of events hosted at breathtaking historical mansions. Be dazzled at demos from celebrity chefs Emeril Lagasse and Jacques & Claudine Pépin, taste exceptional wines at the Grand Tasting featuring over 100 vintners, and enjoy gourmet cuisine from fine restaurants and artisan purveyors.


Marble House is the former summer "cottage" of Mr. and Mrs. William K. Vanderbilt. The Grand Tasting will be hosted outdoors on the grounds of this stunning property. 

Highlights of the Festival include the Wine & Rosecliff gala (scenes from The Great Gatsby were filmed at Rosecliff), the two day Grand Tasting on the lawn of Marble House, and a Collectible Wine Dinner at The Elms. You can also broaden your knowledge of all things vino at wine seminars, including the Bubbles & Breakfast Champagne tasting hosted by Laura Maniec, Master Sommelier.This all sounds pretty amazing, don't you think?

To experience the entire menu of offerings, a Wine Lovers Weekend Package is available for $795. Tickets to the Grand Tasting, seminars, and other key events can also be purchased separately. For complete pricing info and additional details about the Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival, visit their website.

Will Travel for Food: Culinary Festivals & Tours

Culinary tourism is bigger than ever and planning a trip around your appetite can make your next getaway especially delicious! Skip the calorie counting and enjoy one of these fantastic food themed events.   

The Chardonnay Symposium
Santa Maria Valley, California
Friday, June 29 - Sunday, July 1. $15-$95
You're probably not too surprised to learn that Chardonnay is America's most popular wine - it appears on virtually every wine list. Learn more about California's most planted and most produced varietal at this celebration of all things Chardonnay! From a Grand Tasting featuring Chardonnays from 50 wineries to a BYOC (Bring Your Own Chardonnay) gourmet barbecue, the Chardonnay Symposium sounds like the perfect California escape. Santa Maria Valley is nestled in the foothills of Santa Barbara wine country in the heart of California's Central Coast.

St. Martin's Courtyard Global Food Festival at Covent Garden
London
Saturday, July 14. Noon-5PM
Free!
Leave the heavy duty workouts to the athletes training for the Olympics - get your workout wandering from one delicious dish to another at the St. Martin's Courtyard Global Food Festival. Paying tribute to the cultural diversity of London, Bill's, Cantina Laredo, Dishoom, Dalla Terra, Jamie's Italian and Suda restaurants, will be hosting tastings, demonstrations and activities that will transform St Martin's Courtyard into a vibrant open air street food market in the heart of London. Enjoy complimentary Lime Paloma El Jimador Tequila Cocktails, free cucumber sandwiches, and more. In between snacks, get your exercise shopping at boutiques like L.K. Bennett, Massimo Dutti, and Pretty Ballerinas.

Atlantic City Food & Wine Festival
Thursday, July 26 - Sunday, July 29.
Individual tickets $45-$149. Packages, including hotel accommodations starting at $960.
The Boardwalk, the beach and plenty of eats - the Atlantic City Food & Wine Festival has it all! Events include a Bizarre Brunch with Andrew Zimmern, Gospel Brunch with Paula Deen, Meat Loaf Live at the House of Blues, Dinner Impossible with Chef Robert Irvine, wine tastings and much more!


A Taste of Tuscany - Culinary Tour
July 1-7, October 14-20, and December 28 - January 3.
Prices start at $4295 for double occupancy ($795 single supplement). Includes first class accommodations, all breakfasts, some lunches & dinners, land transportation during trip, cooking classes, and more.
Take your tastebuds to Tuscany and visit with a cheesemaking shepherd, take a cooking class in a farmhouse kitchen, stroll vineyards in Chianti, and taste locally pressed olive oil in Montepulciano. The tour also includes visits to legendary sites such as the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, and village streets depicted in the popular book Under the Tuscan Sun. This tour is offered by Classic Journeys - a highly regarded tour operator that was included in Travel+Leisure magazine's 2011 list of "World's Best Tour Operators." They also offer culinary tours in Provence, Amalfi, Napa, and Sonoma.

Let the Good Times Roll at FestiGals in New Orleans

New Orleans has probably appeared on The Black Dress Traveler nearly as often as my hometown of New York City. What can I say - I have a massive crush on the Big Easy!

One of my most memorable trips to NOLA happened last year when I attended the first annual FestiGals Women's Weekend. The legendary Hotel Monteleone (be sure to have a cocktail at their revolving Carousel Bar) in the French Quarter is the host hotel but the FestiGals wave their pink boas all over town!

The second annual FestiGals is scheduled for the weekend of June 22-24, 2012 and highlights include:


 Bodacious Bras for a Cause Luncheon with keynote speaker Hoda Kotb (co-host of the The Today Show). Elaborately decorated one-of-a-kind bras will be auctioned off to benefit the Cancer Association of Greater New Orleans.



Stiletto Stroll - ladies only second line parade. Marching in a New Orleans second line parade was high on my travel wish list and I will be forever grateful to the FestiGals for making that dream come true last year.





 FestiGals also features Diva Discussion Workshops with empowering female speakers, Food & Entertainment, Spa Specials at the Hotel Monteleone's Spa Aria, exclusive receptions & tours, and much more.

Take advantage of the early bird registration and book your FestiGals Ultimate package by May 1 for the best rates ($247.50 for the Ultimate Package and also reduced pricing on a la carte events.) Go ahead chère, gather together your fave girlfriends and let the good times roll at FestiGals!

Take Me Away: Savannah Music Festival

Calling all music lovers, book your trip now for the Savannah Music Festival (March 22-April 7). The largest musical arts event in the state of Georgia, the Savannah Music Festival is truly an elegantly eclectic affair featuring more than 100 performances of classical, jazz, bluegrass, zydeco, flamenco, funk, latin, and so much more.

I was recently invited to sample a taste of the music that will be performed at the Savannah Music Festival and was treated to a high energy performance from one of my favorite jazz musicians - the incredible Wynton Marsalis accompanied by the Aaron Diehl trio. Other well known artists that will perform at the Savannah Music Festival include guitarist Paco de Lucia, tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain, violinist Daniel Hope, Blazing Banjos, vocalist, singer/songwriter Abigail Washburn, pianist Marcus Roberts, trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, and many more world-class artists.




Of course, Savannah's countless charms make it an idyllic place to visit and the Savannah Music Festival takes place in venues all around town so you will really get a chance to explore this walkable city. And, don't forget the food, not only is Savannah one of the prettiest places that I've ever visited, the cuisine is beyond delicious - local favorites include Garibaldi and The Olde Pink House. Great music, great food and great times!

Click here for more information about the Savannah Music Festival.

For tips on planning your trip, check out the Visit Savannah website.

Good Morning Baltimore!

Although one of my dearest friends is from Baltimore, I must confess that everything I think I know about the city comes from watching John Waters movies and The Wire - talk about two extremes! Well, I was thrilled to hear about all of the fun and exciting things happening in Bawlmer, including new restaurants and fun festivals.

New Restaurants

Wit & Wisdom, A Tavern by Michael Mina
Four Seasons Baltimore, Harbor East
Wit & Wisdom offers a menu inspired by the cuisine of the mid-Atlantic region, focusing on the Eastern Seaboard’s culinary heritage. Keeping the area’s history in mind, the restaurant offers American cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients, prepared through classical wood-fire-grilling and hearth-cooking techniques - it sounds delicious! I would definitely pay Wit & Wisdom a visit - I had a chance to dine at Michael Mina's restaurant at the Bellagio in Las Vegas and the food was great.

Waterfront Kitchen
1419 Thames Street, Fell’s Point
Waterfront Kitchen is located on the first floor of Fell’s Point’s Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Museum. The menu, designed by long time local chef Jerry Pellegrino of Corks Restaurant, emphasizes seasonal ingredients, including those grown by participants in Living Classrooms Foundation's BUGS (Baltimore Urban Gardening with Students) program. BUGS, which serves inner-city grade school children, maintains a greenhouse and gardens just a few blocks away.

Special Events/Arts & Culture

Touch and the Enjoyment of Sculpture: Exploring the Appeal of Renaissance Statuettes
The Walters Art Museum
January 21-April 15, 2012
This groundbreaking show will explore the implications of tactile perception for enjoying sculpture by melding the research of a Johns Hopkins University neuroscientist studying how the brain reacts to tactile stimuli and a Walters’ curator interested in the increased appreciation of tactility as an aspect of European Renaissance art – a period marked by a new availability of small “collectibles” meant to be held.

Maryland Film Festival
Maryland Institute College of Art/The Charles Theater
May 3-6, 2012
Designed to advocate for films and filmmakers as they enter the marketplace, the Maryland Film Festival celebrates the art of film in the tradition of famous Baltimoreans like John Waters and Barry Levinson. Documentaries, short films and features are screened at several locations throughout the city.

HonFest
Hampden
June 9-10, 2012
Get out your teasing comb and Aqua Net, hon! Baltimore’s annual celebration of all things “Bawlmer” takes place along 36^th Street in Hampden and pays tribute to the neighborhoods, distinctive dialect and people of Baltimore. Enjoy live music, classic Bawlmer foods and Hampden’s eclectic merchants, and indulge your bouffant cravings and inner hon at the Glamour Lounge.


To learn more about what to see, do, and eat in Baltimore, check out the Visit Baltimore website.

Take Me Away: Gastrofestival Madrid 2012

Spending 2 years of my life studying in beautiful and vibrant Spain was such an extraordinary blessing. Really, I miss it all the time - the ambiance, the lifestyle, the music, and the food. Thanks to culinary trailblazers like Ferran Adria and restaurateurs like Jose Andres, Spanish cuisine has finally received the acclaim it deserves. Before terms like locally-sourced and organic became commonplace, menus in Spain have always been driven by what's in season and what's regional. Spaniards eat well and are extremely passionate and knowledgeable about affairs of the stomach.

From January 23rd - January 5th, Madrid (Spain's capital) will host Gastrofestival - a program celebrating gastronomy that includes special menus in Madrid's fanciest restaurants, wine and food tastings, cooking lessons, and cultural activities at the most important museums and galleries.

A traditional dish of Cocido Madrileño from the legendary La Bola Taberna - they've been in business since 1870. Actress Ava Gardner often dined here with her favorite bullfighters. 

Several hotels in Madrid are offering special deals if you book by December 31st. For example, the Urban Hotel's Gastrofestival package is 770 Euros (about $1070) and includes:

• Two nights in a double room
• Buffet breakfast for two each day.
• Special welcome cocktail for two in the Glass Bar.
• Dinner in the Europa Decó restaurant.
• Dinner for two at another restaurant participating in Gastrofestival.
• One-day Madrid Card for two people (free admission to the 40 most important museums and other discounts)
  
  Click here for information on additional hotels in Madrid that are offering special Gastrofestival promotions.

 

Flirty & Fabulous Fun at FestiGals in New Orleans

It has been more than a week since I returned from New Orleans but occasionally a stray pink boa feather pops up at my home in NYC to remind me of my fabulous FestiGals weekend.  This diva powered celebration in the Big Easy took place October 6-9 and was definitely a weekend to remember.  Thanks to FestiGals, my dream of marching in a New Orleans second line parade come true during the Stiletto Stroll down Bourbon Street, I schmoozed with the city's FINEST  firefighters at the Fire & Ice Cocktail Party, and met journalist Soledad O'Brien at a power lunch. The legendary Hotel Monteleone, conveniently located in the French Quarter, was the FestiGals headquarters but we had all of the city at our bead tossing fingertips. Truly, I was having such a good time and living in the moment that remembering to take photos was a challenge! Here are a few of my fave FestiGals memories.

I quickly learned that it isn't a party in New Orleans without boas, tutus, bright colors and beads!

Diane Lyons, Founder of FestiGals



New Orleans socialite Margarita Bergen, accompanied by her festively attired pooch Chiquita, was the Grand Diva of the FestiGals Stiletto Stroll down Bourbon Street.


Meeting Soledad O'Brien of CNN at the FestiGals luncheon at the Hotel Monteleone was a pleasure. Soledad said that you can't make real change in the world without involving or investing in women. Amen to that!


The hottest event at FestiGals was the Fire & Ice Cocktail Party featuring the firefighters pictured in the 2012 calendar. You can order your calendar at www.hotnolafirefighters.com. No need to feel guilty about your purchase - the proceeds benefit the New Orleans Firefighters Foundation. Go ahead and help these hotties out!


During a quiet moment, I slipped away to the famous Carousel Bar at the Hotel Monteleone. Aptly named, the bar actually spins around. I sipped on a delicious French 007 cocktail (champagne, pomegranate juice, and pear vodka).

Of course, the biggest star at FestiGals was the City of New Orleans. There's simply no other place like it, anywhere.  If you've never visited, what are you waiting for? Stay tuned for updates on FestiGals 2012!


View of St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square.

La Dolce Vita in New York State: Saratoga Wine & Food and Fall Ferrari Festival

Maybe you can't take Amtrak to Italy but I felt transported to bella Italia last weekend when I arrived at the Saratoga Wine & Food and Fall Ferrari Festival. Yes, the title of the event is a mouthful but that is nothing compared to the bounty of exquisite Italian wines and food that I sampled devoured all weekend. And, the Ferraris, wow! I don't drive but being surrounded by all of those gorgeous cars I couldn't help but picture myself zipping around the Amalfi Coast - or better yet, being chauffeured by a gorgeous Italiano!

Hosted indoors and outdoors on the beautiful campus of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) and presented by the Italian Trade Commission and in partnership with the Saratoga Automobile Museum, the Festival was an elegant, entertaining, and eclectic 3 day celebration of Italy and Saratoga. This was my first trip to Saratoga and beyond its worldwide reputation for thoroughbred horse racing, I knew very little about this picturesque town north of New York City. Well, the horses may stop racing in September but Saratoga is still buzzing and the Saratoga Wine & Food and Fall Ferrari Festival is the perfect time to visit. Not only are hotels more affordable when the racing season has ended (I stayed at the Hilton in City Center) but the Festival allows visitors who love the foods and wines of Italy the rare opportunity to experience authentic Italian flavors in a quintessentially American city - it is an unlikely yet magical pairing. The Festival is an annual event, so I encourage you to follow the Saratoga Performing Arts Center to get updates on next year's extravaganza - it is the perfect romantic weekend or girlfriend getaway. Not convinced? I think the following pictures will persuade you!

   The perfect risotto. So few ingredients, such big flavor.


One of the many highlights of the weekend was watching Celebrity Chef Marcus Samuelsson (owner of the very hot Red Rooster restaurant in Harlem, winner of Top Chef Masters, Season Two) teach kids how to prepare a healthy pasta meal. The surprise ingredient in his meatballs? A dash of honey! Who knew? Chef Samuelsson was also honored at the opening night gala and presented with a donation to support his ongoing efforts to alleviate famine in the Horn of Africa.



I couldn't resist taking a photo with Chef Samuelsson. Of course, I had to tell him that I've eaten at Red Rooster three times.



This is the fantastic pizza that we all enjoyed after Chef Samuelsson's talk. The vibrant colors prove his point that you can't go wrong when you eat minimally processed food that is in season - the very essence of Italian cooking.


I learned plenty of new things at the Saratoga Wine & Food and Fall Ferrari Festival. First of all, I learned about sommelier Joe Campanale. Joe is the owner and beverage director of dell'anima, L'Artusi, and Anfora restaurants in New York City. Did I mention he is only 27 years old? The Festival included an amazing opportunity to taste Anfora wines with Joe. Anfora wines, you ask?



Joe taught us that Anfora wines are made using the ancient technique of fermenting the grapes in large terracotta vessels (amphorae). Do you see how orange that first glass of wine is? White Anfora wines are actually called orange wines because the skins of the grapes are not discarded and impart varying hues of orange to the wine. Unlike wooden barrels, the wine does not absorb the flavor of the anfora so the flavor of the wine comes through 100%. Joe said most people love or hate Anfora wines, there is no middle ground. The taste is definitely distinct. I suggest giving them a try. Interesting fact: white Anfora wines should be served at the same cellar temperature as the red, around 55 degrees.




The word authentic is completely overused but what could be more appealingly primitive than a succulent hunk of meat roasting over an open fire? We spent hours waiting for this Porchetta (boneless whole pig) to roast. It was sheer torture. Finally, when the moon appeared in the sky, the crowd gathered around to nibble on the perfectly juicy meat and the crispy skin. It was so worth the wait. And what did we do to pass the time?



We oohed and aahed over the beautiful Ferraris.


Legendary wine educator Kevin Zraly kept us very entertained, and I'm not just saying that because we sampled 8 glasses of wine (Well, I think it was 8. Surely, you understand if my memory is a tad foggy.) Zraly's Windows on the World Wine School has graduated almost 20,000 students and was named the Best Wine School in NYC by New York Magazine. Presented with the prestigious James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011, Zraly is not only a wine expert but one of the most engaging speakers on the planet. His one hour survey of Italian wine was so informative and laugh out loud funny. If you see me in an Italian restaurant, randomly throwing my arms in the air and shouting "Sangiovese!" (a red Italian wine), blame Kevin -he told us to do that! 


Meet Marco. He was at the opening night gala and I noticed many ladies making their way towards his Birra Moretti table. Hmmmmmm.


You know it is a great food event when celebrity chefs attend. I was so excited to run into my buddy, the incredibly talented Chef Suvir Saran, at the opening night gala which was held on the stage of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center - yes, ON the stage. Suvir is the Executive Chef at Devi, the only U.S. Indian restaurant to earn a Michelin star.


 
The Saratoga Food & Wine Fall Ferrari Festival ended with a jazz brunch at the Saratoga National Golf Club. Inside our tent were tables laden with Italian meats, cheeses, wines and pastries. Delizioso! It was the perfect finale to my dolce vita weekend!

              

 

 

A warm thank you to the Italian Trade Commission and the Saratoga Performing Arts Center for their hospitality! Grazie!

 

 

Travel This & That: Hot Travel Tips & News

The world of travel moves at lightening speed - don't let the latest news pass you by! Keep reading to learn about a hip new hotel in NYC's Nolita neighborhood, a jazz festival in Mexico, a great website for female business travelers, and more!

Wouldn't you love to win a trip to New Orleans? In celebration of their 125th anniversary, the legendary Hotel Monteleone is giving away a grand prize that includes includes two round-trip tickets to New Orleans from any location in the continental United States, a two-night stay in one of their suites, a signed copy of the Hotel’s 125^th Anniversary history book, and a set of limited edition 125^th Anniversary Mignon Faget cocktail glasses.

It’s easy to enter - visit the Hotel Monteleone’s Facebook Page and click “Like” if you are not already a fan. Next, click contest on the Left sidebar. Then enter your first and last name, state and email address. That’s it. The Hotel Monteleone will randomly select a winner at the end of the contest period on November 4 and will announce the winner on November 9 through Facebook. Good luck!

No more naked feet at the airport! Could we finally be spared the frustration and humiliation of removing our shoes at the security gate? This week Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said, "we are moving towards an intelligence and risk-based approach to how we screen, I think one of the first things you will see over time is the ability to keep your shoes on. One of the last things you will [see] is the reduction or limitation on liquids." I'm happy about the shoes but if she could speed up on lifting the restrictions on lotions and potions, I'll do a cartwheel down the tarmac at JFK!

New York's Nolita Neighborhood Finally Has a Hotel! The hip Nolita (North of Little Italy) is always buzzing with tourists but has never had a great place for folks to actually stay. Finally, the wait is over - the 55 room Nolitan Hotel opened in August at the corner of Kenmare and Elizabeth Streets. Boasting a great location and luxurious amenities, each reservation is followed up on with an email asking guests to complete a personal profile. From the right pillow type, to arranging for organic groceries in your room, or even booking a bath for your dog, the Nolitan is focused on making every guest feel at home. Another great perk - the standard check-out time is 1pm, giving you more time to enjoy New York.

Have a jazzy time in Cancun! Oasis Hotels & Resorts is bringing back the Cancun International Jazz Festival - the Oasis Jazz U Festival will take place May 17-26, 2012 at the Grand Oasis Cancun - an all-inclusive entertainment resort. The all star lineup includes Dianne Reeves, Trombone Shorty, Maceo Parker, Diego "El Cigala" and many other world renowned artists.


I enjoy reading other travel websites designed by women for women, we each fill a different niche and add a unique perspective to the topic. ViaHerWorld.com  is a great resource for women business travelers. Founded in 2008 by corporate executive and frequent flyer Marie Lotode Chandra, ViaHerWorld.com offers women guidance on travel, business etiquette, safety, interviews with female executives and much more!

The New York Times Tackles Female Travel. One of the reasons I started The Black Dress Traveler is because I believe that women do experience travel differently - when I've traveled alone I've benefitted from perks but I've often had to pay special attention to safety. The NY Times article, "The Gender Gap in Travel: Myths and Revelations" is columnist Seth Kugel's response to women readers who think that many of the solo adventures he partakes in, such as dining in the homes of strangers or going alone to a nightclub, would not be wise choices for women traveling alone. What do you think?

Save the Date: First Annual Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine & Food Festival

Spring breakers consider yourself warned - foodies will descend upon and devour Cancun in 2012 for the First Annual Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine & Food Festival. Scheduled for March 15-18th, this gourmet extravaganza will bring together chefs and wine & spirit producers from around the world.

These days the term celebrity chef gets tossed around more than bad pizza dough but this festival is the real deal and will feature a dinner tribute to world famous Catalan chef Ferran Adrià. The creator of molecular gastronomy, Adrià's world famous El Bulli restaurant in Spain was widely considered to be the best restaurant in the world and gourmands have been in mourning since it closed this July.

In addition to Adrià, chefs from the Americas will participate, including the United States, Mexico, Canada, Argentina, and Brazil. Names you may recognize include Ingrid Hoffman (pictured), Jacques Pepin, and Marcela Valladolid. Activities include cooking demonstrations, a celebrity chef & winemaker yacht cruise followed by a private beach club lunch, and the American Express Gourmet Tasting Village.

Plan ahead - tickets to the Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine & Food Festival will be available to the general public starting October 1. American Express card members can access an exclusive pre-sale from September 15-October 1. Feeling lucky? Enter for your chance to win two tickets!

I had a blast when I went to Cancun last year - the beaches are stunning and the ambiance is absolutely seductive. Although the food at the resorts is plentiful and delicious, I think that the Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine & Food Festival is long overdue. By creating an opportunity for visitors to uniquely experience the extraordinary culinary traditions of Mexico and the latest trends in gastronomy from throughout the Americas, visitors will develop a deeper connection to the region. Muy bien!

 

Let the Good Times Roll at FestiGals: Women's Weekend Getaway in New Orleans

Summer is winding down but don't fret mon cher, now is the perfect time to plan your fall trip to FestiGals in New Orleans! Scheduled for October 6-9, 2011, FestiGals is a unique opportunity for women to unwind and connect in one of America's most magical cities. Long time readers know that I absolutely adore New Orleans: the people, food, history, music, and resilience simply captivate me. I'm really looking forward to being in New Orleans with women from all over the country in a celebration of friendship, food, fashion and fun.

Highlights of the FestiGals weekend include a luncheon with a special keynote delivered by Soledad O'Brien (CNN, Anchor & Special Correspondent), a Diva Dine tasting tour of NOLA's finest restaurants, the Fire & Ice Cocktail Party featuring the 2012 New Orleans Fire Fighters "Look Hot" Calendar Launch, and a sassy Stiletto Stroll - an authentic New Orleans second-line parade featuring several women’s marching groups, bands, horse-drawn carriages, convertibles, and more. The FestiGals Ultimate Package is $225 and includes access to 10 events over 4 days and select FestiGals events are available at a la carte pricing.

More than just a party, FestiGals also includes the S.H.E. series of seminars featuring dynamic guests speaking on a variety of topics dedicated to Self, Heart and Empowerment. FestiGals is truly a party you can feel good about - a portion of the net proceeds will benefit Dress for Success and Women for Women International.

The legendary Hotel Monteleone in the French Quarter is the headquarters for FestiGals and they are offering a fantastic rate of $159 per night.

For more information and to register, visit the FestiGals website. I hope to see you in New Orleans! Of course, I'm already thinking about which dresses I will bring!

Save the Date: The Jekyll Island Wild Georgia Shrimp & Grits Festival

Yes, you can wear a little black dress and still indulge in grits! Growing up with two Southern parents, a hot side of creamy butter drenched grits were a regular part of breakfast. Now, I always have a box of old-fashioned (NEVER Quick) grits in the cupboard. Each forkful is like a taste of my childhood and my heritage. (And, grits aren't just for breakfast - add some fresh parmesan for an amazing savory side.)

Shrimp & grits go together like biscuits & butter and you can indulge in this oh-so-very Southern dish at the Jekyll Island Wild Georgia Shrimp and Grits Festival - just off the coast of Georgia midway between Savannah, GA and Jacksonville, Florida. This weekend festival is scheduled for September 16-18 and features amazing food, live music, fine arts & crafts, and a variety of entertainment.

 

 

The Jekyll Island Club Hotel

The main event of the Shrimp & Grits Festival takes place right in front of the Jekyll Island Club Hotel and they are offering a great package for festival attendees. For $255 per night (double occupancy, two night minimum, taxes and resort fee extra) you get clubhouse or traditional accommodations, breakfast buffet each morning, festival t-shirts and official poster, and, of course, some yummy shrimp and grits! For an extra $35 per person, guests can participate in a Chef's Demonstration that includes generous tasting portions and a glass of wine.

Even if you are not a fan of grits (I'll try not to hold that against you), you should consider a getaway to the Jekyll Island Club Hotel. Rated among the top 500 resorts in the world by Travel & Leisure, it is Jekyll Island’s only four star resort and National Historic Landmark. Welcoming guests since 1888, Jekyll Island Club Hotel was created as an exclusive hunting retreat for J.P. Morgan, William Rockefeller, Joseph Pulitzer and their hoity toity friends.  Now you and your fabulous friends can enjoy their casual and fine dining, nine miles of beach, bicycling, 63 holes of golf, tennis, historic tours, horseback riding, and much more. They offer a wide variety of affordable packages, including the Romantic Fantasy Package, Girlfriends Getaway, Cooking at the Club and many more!

 

Never Too Much New Orleans: Plan Your Fall Getaway to the Big Easy

I've only been to New Orleans twice but it has secured a place in my heart. Long time readers know that I love destinations with delicious food and charming gentleman and NOLA has both in abundance. A city of resilient people with big hearts, New Orleans ALWAYS moves forward - even in her darkest hour. After all, this is the city where jazz was born and NOLA's soundtrack is sultry, swinging, and strong.

Recently, I was chatting with some friends who have never been to New Orleans and we are thinking of visiting as a group in the fall. I'm still in the early stages of planning our excursion but I have some pretty cool suggestions. Let the good times roll!

Where to Stay


Do the Big Easy in style and rest your head where literary giants Tennessee Williams and Truman Capote stayed - the legendary Hotel Monteleone. The largest hotel in the French Quarter, Hotel Monteleone is celebrating their 125th anniversary this year and is in the midst of an impressive $15,000,000 upgrade to their restaurants and other public areas. Ideally located just a block away from the bustle of Bourbon Street, Hotel Monteleone puts you in the perfect spot to explore NOLA's restaurants, shops, and clubs. Within the hotel, pamper yourself with a spa treatment at the Spa Aria or a refreshing dip in the rooftop pool. Dining options at Hotel Monteleone include The Hunt Room Grill and Le Cafe. Order a classic Vieux Carre cocktail at their revolving Carousel Piano Bar and Lounge - the only bar in New Orleans that revolves around the room. The bar always revolves at the same speed but after a few cocktails you may think the pace has picked up!

Festivals

Everybody knows that New Orleans knows how to party! Mardi Gras may be the best known, but the Crescent City hosts many festivals throughout the year. Here are a few happening in the fall months that celebrate the city's love for food, music and the arts.

New Orleans Seafood Festival (September 9-11)

  Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival (October 14-16)

New Orleans Film Festival (October 14-20)


Where to Eat
Cochon Restaurant
Chef/Co-Owner Stephen Stryjewski won the prestigious James Beard Award for "Best Chef South" in 2011. Known for authentic Cajun cuisine, as the name implies, pig reigns supreme at Cochon. The restaurant receives whole pigs and oversees an in-house Boucherie, creating tasty boudin, andouille, smoked bacon, and head cheese. The menu also features handmade crawfish pies, rabbit and dumplings, and spoon bread with okra & tomatoes. No calorie counting allowed!

Live Music
You can't visit New Orleans and not head over to Frenchmen Street to hear some live music. I'm a big fan of HBO's Treme and each week they feature real New Orleans musicians doing their thing! I would love to see Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers on my next trip. All aboard!

 

For more tips on planning your autumn or anytime vacation to New Orleans, visit www.neworleanscvb.com.