Wine With Wanda

A New York Minute: $15 Meals in the Big Apple for Anthony Bourdain

I have to thank culinary cool guy Anthony Bourdain for inspiring this blog post. Truly, I am a fan of the surly and sexy Bourdain but I don't always agree with him - he comes across like the class bully when he picks on cooks like Paula Deen and Rachael Ray that don't share his high brow palate. However, I immensely enjoy his shows and books - my Dad was a chef and when I read Kitchen Confidential it sparked great conversations between us. Bourdain's memoir really helped me to understand just how hard my Dad's job was and all of the drama that happens in the kitchen.

I just finished watching the New York episode of Bourdain's new Travel Channel show The Layover and was surprised to see that we have some fave places in common, like the swanky Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle. However, there was one moment where I screamed at the television. While ambling his admirably lanky form (how does he stay so thin?) towards the stairs leading to the High Line elevated park, two young men asked Bourdain where they could eat in NYC for $15. I know that the fellas put him on the spot, but the best Bourdain could offer up was Papaya King (hot dogs) and Shake Shack (burgers). Don't get me wrong, a Papaya King dog with mustard and onions is tubesteak perfection - especially when paired with their sweet and frosty papaya concoction. I've been eating Papaya King hotdogs since I was a little girl and even Julia Child proclaimed them the best in NYC. And, Danny Meyer's Shake Shack absolutely does put out a high quality and tasty burger but I think that Anthony could have given those guys better advice.


Bourdain chowing down on the classic Papaya King 2 dog and a drink recession special. (Image courtesy New York Magazine)

Listed below are the suggestions I would have offered those two hungry and broke young men looking to fill their empty stomachs in Manhattan. They could eat at my picks and still have money leftover for a hot dog at Papaya King!


Indian meal from Tiffin Wallah (image courtesy Yelp.com)

Indian - There is a thriving Indian restaurant scene in the East Side neighborhood of Murray Hill that has been nicknamed Curry Hill. You can find some great deals here - the food is spicy, filling, and delicious. Curry in a Hurry, Tiffin Wallah and Curry Leaf are popular choices. There is also a cheap but delicious Vietnamese restaurant called L'Annam that serves up generous portions. When dining with a friend, you can save even more money by ordering two appetizers and sharing an entree.



El Aguila Tacos (image courtesy Yelp.com)

Mexican - New York has finally caught up with the West Coast and you can find taco trucks all over the city. But for a sit down meal, try El Paso Taqueria, El Aguila or Las Delicias in East Harlem. El Aguila, is a fave of celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, and they have a deal for 2 tacos and a medium homemade drink for about $5.99. I like the tacos al pastor (pork marinated with chiles and pineapple) paired with horchata (rice drink) or agua de jamaica (hibiscus).

Bocadillo from Despaña

Despaña - Soho is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in NYC but one of my favorite places for a fabulous nosh is Despaña. Known for stocking some of the best ham, cheese, and other goodies from Spain, Despana also makes wonderful food. Head to the back of the store and order one of their hefty bocadillos (sandwiches).


Roast Chow Fun from Hop Kee (image courtesy Yelp.com)

Chinatown still offers some of the freshest and most delicious meals in NYC. Usually, my strategy is to wander around and pick a no frills looking spot that is busy with locals. However, I will let Anthony Bourdain have the last word - he once featured old school Cantonese restaurant Hop Kee on his show No Reservations. Those two hungry youngsters could each fill up on wonton soup and share some Roast Pork Chow Fun.

Take Me Away: Royal Mansour Marrakech

The winding streets and colorful  markets of Morocco have captivated travelers for centuries. Make a trip to this North African city even more magical by booking a luxurious riad at the Royal Mansour Marrakech.

Modeled on a traditional Moroccan house, Royal Mansour’s riads are available in one, two or three-bedrooms - making them perfect for a romantic escape or a family vacation. They even have a Kids Club to keep the little ones busy while you wander Marrakech or just relax. And, for extra pampering each riad comes with a butler. You can also unwind in the spa or over a cocktail in the bar or one of the lounges. Dining options include two fine dining restaurants and the menus were created by three Michelin starred chef Yannick Alléno.

Holiday rates start at $2,228 for a one-bedroom riad from December 15 to January 7.

Driving Green is Red Hot: Ford Teams Up with Actor Adrian Grenier

Adrian Grenier, SHFT.com co-founder Peter Glatzer (left) and Sherif Marakby (Ford's Director of Electrification Programs) show off the feisty Focus Electric. 

Cute cars and fine fellas will always turn heads so put the two together and you have my full attention! Last week I was invited to learn more about automaker Ford's partnership with actor, filmmaker and musician Adrian Grenier. In addition to being a star, Adrian is a passionate environmentalist and is the co-founder of SHFT.com, a green lifestyle website that conveys a more sustainable approach to life through video, design, art and culture. As part of Ford’s mission to accelerate the development of more fuel-efficient and alternative-fuel vehicles, they have teamed up with SHFT.com "to put the power in the hands of millions of Americans who are interested in being more eco-conscious and saving money." As part of the collaboration, Ford will sponsor a new SHFT web series that will profile innovators and game-changers in the green movement.

One of the cool things I learned is that these Ford electric vehicles can be fueled for about the cost of a cup of coffee. I also thought the styles were pretty cute and the compact size make them great for city life. Here are a few photos of the vehicles. Please note that Adrian Grenier is NOT offered as a dealer option with these cars!



Focus Electric - With this vehicle you never have to worry about an oil change or filling the tank with gas. You can even monitor and schedule battery charging from your smartphone. The interior fabrics are also eco-friendly and made from items such as recycled plastic water bottles.



Ford C-Max Hybrid

Ford C-Max Energi Plug-In Hybrid

A Wanderlust Soundtrack: My Five Favorite Travel Tunes

Lately, I've been turning off mind-numbing "reality" TV shows and listening to music for at least an hour before going to bed. Not only does it put me in a better mood but I even get up and dance around the living room - it feels like a mini-vacation. Many of my favorite songs have a travel theme or come from a foreign country. The list is very long but here are five of my favorite tunes that conjure up feelings of wanderlust. Please share yours!

"Mexico" by James Taylor
Oh Mexico, it sounds so sweet with the sun sinking low
I simply adore James Taylor and have this ongoing daydream that he will sing at my destination wedding one day. Everything about this song is perfect - James's supple vocals, the lilting beat, and the lyrics. On my first road trip to Tijuana in college, we blasted Mexico in the car. And, when I arrived at the airport a few months ago to fly to Cancun, Mexico was actually playing over the sound system. Someone at JFK has good taste in music!
Click here to listen to a clip.

The Girl from Ipanema by Antonio Carlos Jobim
Tall and tan and young and lovely, the girl from Ipanema goes walking
And when she passes, each one passes goes -ah
The Girl from Ipanema was my introduction to Bossa Nova and the brilliant work of Jobim. This sultry song is simply timeless and puts the listener in a Brazil state of mind. Wouldn't every girl love to inspire such a masterpiece?
Click here to listen to a clip.


Love Train by the O'Jays
People all over the world
Join hands
Start a love train, love train
Whenever I am on the crowded NYC subway and look around at the sullen faces, I want to break out into this song. This classic soul jam about people all over the world joining together in peace is a brilliant blend of inspirational lyrics and a danceable beat.
Click here to listen to a clip.

Wide Open Spaces by the Dixie Chicks
She needs wide open spaces
Room to make the big mistakes
This song became my anthem when I was going through a breakup. Wide Open Spaces perfectly captures that feeling of wanting to explore the world and take a journey of self-discovery.
Click here to listen to a clip.



Carolina in My Mind by James Taylor
In my mind I'm going to Carolina
Can't you see the sunshine
Can't you just feel the moonshine
I love James Taylor so much, that he starts and ends my list of favorite travel songs. Like all JT songs, this composition really paints a portrait and captures the yearning of missing home or any place that holds special meaning for you. My late Dad was from North Carolina and this song always makes me think of him and the summers I spent down there as a little girl.
Click here to listen to a clip.

A New York Minute: Art, Music, Wine, Food, and Hotel Deals

There is always something fun and fabulous happening in New York City. Whether you are a local or a visitor, get your little black dress ready for an amazing time in the Big Apple.

Save 20% at the Library Hotel
If you're looking for a lovely boutique hotel in NYC with great style and a convenient location, the Library Hotel is a fabulous option. For a limited time, you can save 20% off on hot dates, including Thanksgiving and the shopping days leading up to Christmas. To get rates as low as $199 per night, book online using the code HOLIDAY. The Library Hotel is located just blocks away from Grand Central Terminal and attractions like the New York Public Library, Times Square, Bryant Park, and Lord & Taylor. To learn more about the hotel, read the review I posted in April.

French Connection: Beaujolais Dinner at the James Beard Foundation
Friday, November 18. $170
One of my fave chefs, Jean-Stephane Poinard, will prepare an amazing feast of authentic French cuisine at the legendary James Beard House. The multi-course meal will be paired with Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau and Cru Beaujolais wines. A 5th generation chef, Chef Poinard is a member of Les Toques Blanches Lyonnaises, the ultra-exclusive fraternity of chefs led by culinary icon Paul Bocuse. Chef Poinard is also a really charming guy with so much passion for food - I had the pleasure of interviewing him when I visited his restaurant Bistro de Leon in St. Augustine, Florida.

Contemporary Art Fair and the American Craft Show
Friday, November 18 - Sunday, November 20
$16
See two great art shows under one roof  and for one affordable price at the Javits Center. The Contemporary Art Fair NYC features work from international artists in various media, and was the first major show for independent artists in metro NY. The American Craft Show NYC features fine crafts from artisans across the country. (Image: painting by Mel Smothers)

Rosie Ledet and The Zydeco Playboys
Saturday, November 19. $23
Doors open at 6:30 PM for dinner, drinks & socializing. Zydeco dance lesson at 7:30 PM. Live music 8:30 PM - midnight.
Rosie Ledet, known as the Zydeco Sweetheart, will rock the Big Apple with the authentic sounds of Louisiana. Be prepared to boogie. I have been to a few of these Zydeco dances in NYC and they are non-stop fun.

Take Me Away: Metropolitan London Unveils COMO Shambhala Urban Escape

COMO Shambhala. Doesn't that just sound exotic? Like some sort of secret password to enter a world of luxury and relaxation. Until now, you could only experience the magic of these swank spas by jetsetting to Turks & Caicos or Bali but the Metropolitan London hotel has just unveiled the new COMO Shambhala Urban Escape.

In the tradition of COMO Shambhala, the Metropolitan London will offer Asian-inspired therapies, including a resident acupuncturist. The COMO Shambhala Urban Escape is also the only spa in the U.K. to offer facials using the Dr. Perricone product line from the US. The spa is also offering COMO Shambhala PURIFY facials, suitable for men and women. Body therapies include the signature COMO Shambhala Massage, a nurturing massage using COMO Shambhala’s own blended massage oil to calm the mind and rejuvenate the body.

The Metropolitan London has a variety of room options, including rooms with stunning views of London's Royal Parks.

Once you're all relaxed and glowing, you'll be ready to explore the hustle and bustle of London. The Metropolitan London is located on Park Lane, on the borders of Mayfair and Knightsbridge. And, you don't have to travel far for a good meal, the Metropolitan London is home to an outpost of NOBU - renowned for their Michelin starred Japanese-Peruvian cuisine.

Toast Thanksgiving with Sophisticated Sips from Around the Globe

Let's be honest, Americans don't just love Thanksgiving because of the forced, albeit lovely and welcome, focus on gratitude. Turkey Day gives us carte blanche to indulge in fatty, saucy, sweet, gravy laden and carbo-filled foods that we work our hardest to avoid throughout the year.

My family is pretty resistant (intrepret as downright hostile) to any shocking new additions to the Thanksgiving meal but I always like to have something interesting to sip. With so many different flavors and textures, pairing the Thanksgiving feast with wine is no easy task, but fret not my darlings. Thanks to my friends at Frederick Wildman & Sons (importers & wine merchants), I have information on five great wines that pair perfectly with that big juicy bird and all the fixings.

Grooner Gruner Veltliner 2010
Austria
$13
Grooner 2010, from Austria's Kremstal region, is a crisp white wine that matches well with appetizers, fresh salads, and other small bites. The 2009 Grooner was rated one of Austria's best values by Wine Spectator.

Trapiche Broquel Bonarda 2009
Argentina
$15
You can never go wrong with a selection from Trapiche, the world's leading producer of wines from Argentina, so why risk pairing your turkey with an inferior vino. Broquel means "shield" and is Trapiche's premium brand. The Bonarda grape has origins in the Piedmonte region of Northern Italy but it has been widely planted in Argentina. Expect blueberry and ripe cherry aromas, luscious sweet flavors, and plenty of thanks for bringing such an awesome wine to dinner.

Michel Torino Malbec Rose 2011
Argentina
$13
For something a little less traditional, you could pair the main course with this sassy dry rosé from the northernmost vineyards of Cafayate, Argentina. Made from 100% Malbec, this wine really captures the season with aromas of roses, honey, and crushed cherries and flavors of spice and rosemary.

Santi Moscato Montedoro 2010
Italy
$12
The ripe fruit and spicy notes of this softly sweet Santi Moscato Montedoro make it an ideal match for apple pie. Made from 100% Moscato grapes, this lovely libation is from the acclaimed wine region of Veneto.

Churchill's 10 Year Old Tawny Port
Portugal
$33
I'm a big fan of port and Churchill's is simply sublime - they are the only port producer to begin with wines produced from grapes grown in Grade A vineyards. Port wine is a fortified wine, meaning that the wine is enhanced with a grape spirit. THIS is the beverage to pair with pecan, pumpkin, and my fave, sweet potato pie. But this flavorful wine is perfect to sip all by itself - it is an elegant way to end a special meal. Wine legend Robert M. Parker, Jr. said, "unquestionably the finest Tawny I've tasted in years. What makes it profound is its complex fragrance of roasted nuts and sweet fruit. There is impeccable definition and richness, a velvety texture and a long lusty finish. It is all a Tawny should be."

 

A New York Minute: La Promenade des Anglais

With all of my daydreaming about exotic getaways, I plead absolutely guilty to taking New York City for granted. My hometown remains the number one destination in the USA for overseas travelers for very good reason - NYC has superb entertainment, eats, and energy! To make amends, I am launching a new segment on my blog called A New York Minute to highlight what's fabulous and glamorous in the Big Apple. Whether you are a tourist or a local, don't miss the chance to see and be seen in NYC!

One of my favorite chefs, the very talented Alain Allegretti, has just opened a gorgeous new restaurant in Chelsea - La Promenade des Anglais. Named after a celebrated seaside promenade in Nice, the cuisine is inspired by the French Riviera with subtle Italian influences. The menu will rotate seasonally to showcase high quality ingredients at their peak. I had lunch there yesterday and was seduced by the luxurious setting and exceptional cuisine. A welcome taste of the Mediterranean in Manhattan, I can't wait to go back to La Promenade for dinner.

 

 

 

I love the Mediterranean blue velour banquettes, ornate ceiling, and brass light fixtures in the dining room at La Promenade - very elegant yet warm and inviting.


I ate every morsel of my Trofie. The tiny little pasta spirals were perfectly prepared with heirloom tomatoes, capers, olives, and juicy ventresca tuna. Ventresca comes from the belly of the tuna and is prized for its rich flavor and velvety texture. I could easily eat this dish several times a week.


The swanky bar at La Promenade is the perfect spot to rendezvous and flirt. Ooh la la!


Zucchini Pound Cake sounds deceptively simple but Chef Allegretti's interpretation is enhanced by the addition of olive oil gelato and pine nut brittle. The moist texture of the cake meld beautifully with the smooth gelato and the crunchy brittle.

La Promenade des Anglais is located at 461 West 23rd Street between 9th and 10th Avenues.


images courtesy of La Promenade des Anglais

Travel This & That: Hot Travel Tips and News

The world of travel moves at lightening speed - don't let the latest news pass you by! Keep reading to learn about great deals on Australia's newest luxury train, dining tips from celebrity chefs, and Bangkok's first ALOFT Hotel.

Explore Australia by Rail on The Southern Spirit

The Southern Spirit in Valla Beach near Nambucca Heads (Photo credit: Great Southern Rail)

Are you thinking of traveling Down Under in the new year? Why not do it in style! Australia’s newest luxury train, The Southern Spirit is offering an early bird promotion to launch it’s first full season. Travelers who book now through March 31, 2012 will receive 20% off their Gold Service reservation—a savings of over $800 per person. The Southern Spirit travels in luxurious style between Adelaide, South Australia and Brisbane, Queensland over six days and five nights. Exploring the path less traveled, the Southern Spirit winds through the Great Dividing Range and along Australia’s Eastern Seaboard. The Southern Spirit offers two classes of elegant accommodations (Platinum and Gold Service) with full-sized bathrooms, plush beds, a welcome reception and personalized service. Similar to cruise ship excursions, the Southern Spirit makes a number of whistle stops along the way, providing guests with the opportunity to explore coastal Australia along their journey. These whistle stop tours, along with gourmet food and beverage experiences on-board, are included in the fare.

Food Travel Month on Gogobot
Don't we all wish that we had a celebrity chef on speed dial to give us restaurant recommendations? Well, Gogobot may be the next best thing. The world's largest social travel site is featuring exclusive travel guides from well known chefs on where to eat and drink in New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris and more. Get the inside dish from Giada De Laurentiis, Sam Talbot, Marcel Vigneron and an array of Food Network stars, Iron Chef veterans, Top Chef finalists and James Beard Award winners. 

Style at a Steal at the ALOFT Hotel in Bangkok
Thailand for the holidays? Stay in style without going broke at the new ALOFT hotel. Scheduled to open December 1, 2011, the ALOFT in Bangkok-Sukhumvit is offering rates starting at $69 USD per night. With loft-inspired design, the hotel will feature 297 rooms, custom amenities by Bliss Spa, free WiFi, and an outdoor swimming pool.

Glam to Go: Win a Limited Edition Sonia Kashuk Scarlet Starlet Brush Set

I don't know how she does it, but each season makeup artist Sonia Kashuk outdoes herself with cosmetics and accessories that are chic yet affordable. Available exclusively at Target, Sonia's incredible price points make it easy to experiment with new looks and to stock up on her fantastic brushes and cases. Recently, I was invited to Sonia's studio in downtown NYC  for a sneak peek at her new holiday collection. Below are a few photos of my faves, including the Scarlet Starlet Brush Set that one lucky reader will win!

Sonia Kashuk looks oh-so-chic modeling her MADEMOISELLE bag ($24.99) from her Luxe line. I saw this faux leather bag up close and personal and well-executed details like the quilted stitching and metal studs make it look much more expensive. The Mademoiselle bag will add a touch of glam-rock to your little black dress.

Want to win this very sophisticated and travel friendly Scarlet Starlet Brush Set ? Just leave a comment below by 5pm (EST) on Thursday, November 10th for a chance to win. Winner will be selected at random. Prize can only be shipped to addresses within the United States. The limited edition set includes 4 travel sized brushes and a silver & black tweed foldover case. Retail value $14.99.


Another one of my fave items from Sonia's new collection is the Prepping for the Party Lip & Eye Palette ($19.99). This sleek case contains 6 lip glosses and 6 eye shadows that can take you from a demure daytime face to va va voom! Not sure how to get the perfect look? No worries - the palette contains pull out cards that give step-by-step tips on creating three festive faces.

The Empty Suitcase Blues

Be it a plane, train, or automobile - get me out of here! I'm ready to pack my little black dress and hit the road. Don't get me wrong, I love my hometown but lately I have the blues. Maybe it is the change in the seasons (I detest even a hint of a chill in the air) or not knowing when or where my next trip will be. Also, I just read another depressing article that basically said I have a better chance of being adopted by Brad and Angelina than ever getting married (I'm not even sure I want to get married, but geez, don't count me out.)

I read travel books and magazines the way some ladies immerse themselves in bridal magazines. Instead of picturing myself in that perfect white dress, I see myself strolling down sandy beaches and dining in exotic locales, and flirting (just a little bit) with handsome locals. Kind of my own honeymoon, minus the groom.

Yours truly in Dublin (2002) and completely blissed out on vacation endorphins!

I don't know if there is any scientific evidence to support this claim, but I am 100% convinced that the better the vacation, the more endorphins your body releases. The best vacations give you such a high, such boundless bliss, that the feeling lingers when you return home. Until, it doesn't. One day you are still on cloud nine from your perfect vacation and then suddenly you have to restrain yourself from saying not-such-ladylike things to the rude person who basically tackled you to get to an empty seat on the subway. Reality checks can be so cruel.

Yes, I live in Manhattan amidst fine dining and world-class arts & entertainment. And, most importantly, many of the people that I love and treasure most in the world share this crazy island with me. But that's the thing about the blues - they don't have to make sense but they are real. I know there are more trips on my horizon and, even if I never travel again, I know I am blessed to have had the opportunity to experience some truly amazing places. But sometimes a girl just has to acknowledge when she is feeling down. I bet you, at this very moment, there is a lady in Paris, Barcelona, or London, who feels exactly the same way. I look forward to meeting her on my next trip.

Travel in Style: Fashionable Finds for Jetsetters

Fraas Ruffle Scarf
$66
I never travel without a wrap but the key is to stay warm without compromising style. This versatile wrap from Fraas will add a dash of elegance to any outfit and keep you cozy. I love the ruffle detail on this wrap because it is very subtle - the hem has a lovely flow as opposed to a bulky attached ruffle. Not too overwhelming in size, this wrap also can be worn as a scarf to keep your neck warm. Available in black, dark red, magenta, blue grape, and peacock; this travel-friendly beauty is made of a luxuriously soft acrylic that is hand washable in cold water.
 

Freshwater Cultured Pearl Rope
$85 at Fortunoff
The epitome of chic, pearls will never go out of style. Don't just save them for your little black dresses, I love the contrast of classic pearls with jeans and a fitted t-shirt. A generous 80 inches long, this strand of pearls can be worn knotted, wrapped, or even as a belt. Available in white, gray and black.

Kushyfoot Snakeprint Flats to Go
$9.99
I'm amazed when I see ladies tottering around the airport in stilettos. If you want to make it to the gate without breaking your ankle, slip on a pair of KushyFoot Flats to Go. Packed in their own foldable pouch, these flexible flats slip easily into your purse. Available in many colors and patterns.

Take Me Away: Le Pavillon des Lettres Hotel (Paris)

Le Pavillon des Lettres Hotel
Paris
Rates start at $345 per night.

The City of Lights for the holidays sounds oh-so-nice! Le Pavillon des Lettres opened last September and is housed in a classic Haussmann townhouse in the chic 8^th arrondissement on the Right Bank. Each of the hotel's 26 rooms is devoted to a letter of the alphabet and a writer corresponding to that letter. Shakespeare, Baudelaire and Woolf are among the authors whose quotes are elegantly scrawled on the walls en Français. Keeping with the literary theme, you can curl up by the fireplace with a good book in the hotel library.



Although inspired by the great literature of the past, Le Pavillon des Lettres offers thoroughly modern amenities such as an Ipad in all rooms, WiFi, and flat screen televisions. Talk about a great location, Le Pavillon des Lettres is located just steps away from the Champs-Elysee, Place de la Concorde, and the Grand Palais. I'm ready to pack my little black dress and go!