Lizelle "edible deviant" G.'s Profile

Extremely helpful staff. I was having trouble uploading the latest iPhone software and with basic syncing. Plus, I needed an easy to remove cover, anti-glare film, and recharging system for the car. Everything was solved by a very knowledgeable, professional, and patient woman (I could kick myself that I forgot her name).  I was kind of expecting - because loads of money weren't being spent - to get quick be-on-your-merry-way service and wasn't sure if they could even help me. I walked away quite satisfied... and my babe was still fast asleep in the stroller.

Dangerous boutique that makes spending obscene amounts of money on your little ones very easy. Red flag when I saw two sweet dresses for my 3 year old wishing they were in my size - of course they from Neige and $$$. Uncluttered merchandising, lovely clothes, well designed wooden toys, and very friendly staff. Now if they could just lock the door when I walk by...

The offerings from the Boccalone artisans at Incanto are fantastic. Every other Saturday from 10am to 2pm, Salumi Society members and non-members can purchase all good things delicious from the boar and piglet. And, samples are always available (my favorite part!). The staff is friendly as our the local cured meat lovers.

We picked up our first little bag of savory treasures before the holidays and were silly with delight when we got home. Our brown box included spicy Italian sausage, Pat di Campagna, Soppressata di Calabria, and pancetta. The portions were enough for two adults and two kids - we just added pieces to many of our dishes for the following two weeks. However, the pat was too good and devoured soon after arrival.

Typically my good ol' standby when out with the kids at the park or perusing Chestnut street (mostly visiting Citi Optix getting my glass frames adjusted due to my little boy's super-power bending skills). My 3-year old is going through a picky stage, but loves beans, rice, and chicken. So, I usually split a chicken burrito, chips, and a glass of melon juice with my daughter. All good and fresh. It's  kid-friendly -  staff likes kids and the environment is relaxing. We're often sitting inside somewhere when preschool is on holiday.

UPDATE:
Went again. Food was not as fresh and flavorful as previous visit. And, my favorite dish, Mandilli al pesto, was mediocre at best. What happened to the chiffon-like pasta? Oh, I miss that. I still love the space though.

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Few dishes make me yelp with delight (rabbit rillette at Bouchon, charcuterie at Spruce, etc... okay, with one exception, every dish at Manka's), so I was pleasantly surprised when I tried Farina's Mandilli al pesto - wow, quite heavenly! Typically, I'm not a big fan of pesto - always too garlicky or too gritty or too heavy - but it was on the menu so thought I'd give it a whirl. The pesto sauce was light and formed a delicate layer around tissue-like layers of their housemade pasta. Smooth and tender. Really really nice.

The Piedmont filet mignon was delicious with a dollop of Alba white truffle butter and just the right amount of Barolo sauce. Also, I enjoyed the flavors of the rosemary Calamaretti al Pigato. And, we had a surprisingly light, not cloying tiramasu.

I like the open air - great-room like interior. Cozy in the evening. I'll be back.

With an influx of boutique and department store openings, what's a girl to do? I love the look and feel of Barney's New York, particularly Barney's CO-OP. However, I'm  not blown away - aesthetically - by our local branch - merchandising could be better, especially on the 4th floor. BUT, I am quite satisfied with their customer service - definitely one of the few ways to stand out among big hitters like Saks, Neimans, as well as small ones Metier, Canvas, etc...

When in Barney's, I tend to gravitate to the CO-OP floor (despite the fact that it does need a new up-do) since it carries some of my pretty friends 3.1 Phillip Lim, Lauren Moffat, DVF, and Mayle.  And, the folks are friendly, helpful, and jocular - at least the times I've been in.

I'm a big fan of people remembering me as well as thank cards, event invites, etc.. very old fashion but it's what keeps me coming back. Wouldn't you? So, 4 sparklers for you Barney's, for acting like you care.

Lanvin, Balenciaga, Chloe, Comme des Garcons ...
my heart going boom boom boom.

Any place that serves charcuterie, foie gras with huckleberry sauce, short ribs, and pork belly has won my heart. Food is exceptional - charcuterie was amazing with some of the best cured meats around, plus whatever was in that ramekin made my palate melt; halibut and pork belly dishes were very tasty - perfectly crispy pork belly. The veal sweetbreads were well balanced and delicious.

Moreover, my husband and I loved that they had Domaine Weinbach on their wine menu - a L'lnedit no less. Sarah, the sommelier, is a delight and quite attentive. Interior is sumptuous - leather, wood, dark cloth lined walls, warm fire, and lighting that makes everyone look good. For me, it's hard not to love this place.

Coming from an inspiring interview with Ang Lee in San Rafael, I was in a great mood and up for some good grub. I'm a huge fan of Pizzeria Picco next door (as well as Mr. Hill's Bix) so the restaurant was a logical choice. Unfortunately, we were disappointed when dishes didn't quite hit all the taste notes we've come to expect.

Both the Kona Kampachi crudo and the "slice of ice" salad  with house cured pancetta and creamy tomato-herb dressing were a bit bland tasting. I guess I'm so used to the popular power-house flavors of pairing iceberg with blue cheese dressing. And, anyone standing behind an Omnivore's Dilemma knows to order the grass-fed mini burgers. Well, I'm no chef but will honestly say that I do make tastier grass-fed beef burgers (perhaps an off-night in the kitchen?). They weren't bad, just not a wow. The lamb rack with fresh cannellini beans was a little weak on the lamb flavors that I typically love. And, the grilled tomato with herbed ricotta - pleh.

Backtracking a bit, I must comment on our server. She was really nice but a bit rough. She was like a character from the old sitcom Mel's Diner - like Flo. Anyway, that was whole other issue.

We were delighted that our dining experience didn't end with a fizzle. The lemon verbena ice-cream with fresh  huckleberry sauce was, as my husband said, "the best dish!" Yummy for tummy!

I'm not too keen on going back. Think we'll stick to our regular visits to Pizzeria Picco instead.

I am elated to have (re)found Charles. Like, where were you when my hair was flipping out in all directions? If you've read my past postings on Charles, you know he's been coiffing my hair for over 15 years. But, recently, he claimed to be playing "Find Waldo" - listen, when you are running around with two kids under the age of three and your hair has not only grown out of its once-stylish cut but roots are starting to sprout, Find Waldo is not a fun game. Mikey no likey.

Anyway, apart from the pain of searching for Mr. Artist, I finally found him and my hair is back to its sassy self. Charles only gets better and better - how does he do that??? And, I love his new Ferrari Red Mac - always ahead of the crowd. Moreover, what a beautifully modern salon atop downtown! Perfect natural lighting, great views, and relaxing environment. The staff is extremely pleasant. Ah, Mauricio, who is now adding sheen and sparkle to my hair, is a gem among colorist. I'm back to being a cool mom again... at least for now.