John Lennon...what he said

The St Regis Hotel, is one of those hotels where any excuse to visit is a good one - A Forbes five star, AAA five Diamond luxury hotel who's first address was on Fifth Avenue, four blocks from Central Park in Manhattan. Built by one of the wealthiest men in America, John Jacob Astor (yes, you're thinking correctly-He was on the Titanic) also half owner of its sister hotel, The Waldorf Astoria - this place is synonymous with elegance, glamour, and luxury.  But what peaked my interest in this hedonistic megastructure was when I read in mid November  2011 that it was Forbes's most anticipated opening of 2012 (in all of the United States), for all its seductive amenities. After all, where else in South Florida can you have a five-star in-room dinner party excuted by your St. Regis butler?

My visit began with a change of plans really. I was headed to the Delano to try out their new Italian venture. I'd heard from a colleague that after dining there, you felt like a unicorn shitting truffles. But as fate would have it, on the way to South Beach, I brought up the St. Regis in conversation...SWITCH! In a few seconds we were headed 90 blocks north on Collins Avenue. As the great John Lennon said, "Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans."

We arrived to the hotel that's located excatly across the Bal Harbour Shops - how appropriate. After a welcoming greeting by the valet gentlemen, we slowly walked into the lobby where a giant crystal chandelier lit up interchanging walls of marble, mirrors, and crystal. The chandelier made by a reknown artist is actually called a suspended "Silver Cloud" - a lit up masterpiece of real rock crystals. You can't help but look like a little lost puppy gazing in every direction as you make your way down the long hallway toward JG Grill. 

And this brings us to the next utopia..yes JG grill at the St. Regis. Also known as "The land of milk and honey" , the "Elysian Fields", "Arcadia" , "Shangri-La" , the "Garden of Eden"  .. I don't know even know what to call this foodie-wonderland except maybe paradise- perfected. We walked into a chic, grand, dining room with floor to ceiling panoramic windows that over-look the prestine waters of the Atlantic ocean decorated with lush tropical palm trees we are blessed with in South Florida. Talk about a view! And in my opinion sceneries like that always deserve a  nice bottle of Champagne - Ruinart Blanc de Blancs happens to be my favorite. We recieved our Champagne and quickly asked the following appropriate question, "Would you by any chance, serve caviar, maybe from your dinner menu?" After a long explaination and searching for the caviar, as it turned out they only had one in stock: Osetra. Osetra caviar (Russian elite) is one of the most prized and expensive caviars in the world today. But with a view like that, Champagne that good, and company like no other, who in the right mind could deny the bon vivant moment? The caviar arrived at the table on ice with the mother-of-pearl spoon and a dish that was spectacular all its own: Poached/crispy eggs (sous vide) with buttery brioche battonettes.  This was truly an epicurean debauchery. Champagne, caviar, and.....truffles. Yes, the mindblowing trifecta...

We continued with a black truffle and fontina pizza and a burger with truffle and brie. I feel dirty even writing this. Remembering this lunch makes me feel like I'm watching porn. At one point, the truffle was dripping off the pizza and on to the truffled burger. Come on! We were actually giggling at the table saying when anyone asks us what we ate for lunch, we'd say "pizza and a burger" . Only this pizza and burger was stripped of its all American humbleness and dressed in French opulence. We finished our bottle of Champagne and ordered two more glasses to accompany dessert: Smores. Once again, not your run-of-the mill Smores and definetly not the ones we had in summer camp. This was decadent, silky, crunchy, salty, sweet....simply flawless. And so was this magnificent lunch.

To me, there is something enchanting about sharing a meal like this with someone special, it captivates us for the time being, and takes us to a place where there's a thrill in a bite, a giggle, a sip. We could have gone somewhere else for lunch and none of this would have ever happened... but hey, "Life is what happens when we're busy making other plans." 

5 O'clock

If last Monday was an episode from a slightly twisted travel reality show, it would have been in my opinion, one of the best shot - best edited episodes ever. It helped that we were in what cinematographers call a "shot rich environment" - where it seems that everywhere you point, there are bright colors, plush landscape, beaming sun, characters, beautiful things, and mainly- a beautiful person. Where the food is thought of by many to be among the best in Miami, and the Champagne thought of by me, to be top notch. I think you'll see why, the Fontainebleau and my time spent there, is the kind of place that ruined me for an ordinary life.

Nestled between South Beach and Miami Beach, big, bright and white, sits this monster hotel that seduces you and at the same time, overwhelms you of all good things and vices- an adult playground where the scenery, sounds, smells, and tastes simply invigorate you. A place where you shouldn't have to leave by a certain time, because there, time will have it's way with you.

 "Let me know when it's 4 o'clock," I said ...to be continued...................

"The happiest place on Earth isn't Disney"

It's easy to over-romaticize the unspoiled...moments taken or stolen, arrested in time, immaculate forever. Basically, unf***ed. On any given day, there's not much to say about a typical lunch ranging anywhere from fifteen minutes to two hours. Some grab a bag of chips and call it a day, while others pick and choose between salads, dressings on the side, and bottled highly marketable green teas. Thankfully, neither of those is me and thankfully ,there is way too much to say about a lunch that still has me daydreaming of that day, of that meal, in times where I shouldn't. Just yesterday, I was doing an interview for a highly acclaimed Spanish magazine, and honestly, while the lady interveiwing me was bouncing back and forth between questions I've answered a million times (how did you do all this? etc, etc,) I was completely taken by my thoughts of this lunch. All of a sudden she became mute, and I was reliving every bite- every minute. I felt like I was an awkward teenager thinking dirty thoughts, or like having a crush on my gym teacher at 14, or reading my older cousin's diary. Lingering mental pictures of this lunch pierced through any concentration I could gather up. So what is this place you might ask...

It all began in a perfect corner table with a view of the cityscape cut by the river letting out into the ocean, dotted by multi million-dollar yatchs, and two champagne glasses that meant we were toasting to everything, or without any ellaboration - just being there. After dining all around town unfettered and largely without constraint throughout the years, this place truly deserves a toast.

The servers greeted us in a friendly tone, and quickly explained new menu items, and touched on our favorites. However, as they spoke, it was as if a beautiful exotic country was speaking, as they described ingredients and how they were put together. When the dishes came out, you'd assume they came with their own theme song, atleast some fireworks. Because that is indeed what happened as we tasted dish after dish - fireworks...Another round of champagne had us gitty, but one could easily question if it was the bubbly or was it the symphony of flavors? Thrilled with the moment, we eagerly talked about each bite, making it difficult for any other kind of conversation. After the third dish came out, I was told "The happiest place on Earth isn't Disney..it's here." So what is this place you might ask...

I for one have to admit that towards the end of the meal, I was purposely eating slower because I didn't want it to end. I wanted that lunch to go on as far as I could stretch it.

It is my wish that everyone take the time to experience one of these incredible lunches once in a while. Take out somebody you love, submerge yourself in their company, enjoy some champagne, allow for some of life's fireworks to happen. Exchange the bag of chips for some magnificent pork belly, trade the stiff salads with the dressing on the side for some vibrant sashimi, and sip the good bubbly instead of the plastic bottled drinks. It is these unspoiled moments that stay arrested in our memory, immaculate forever. So what is this place you might ask...

"It's not Disney, but it is the happiest place on Earth" ....I guess it is easy to over-romanticize the unspoiled.

Spain for a second

Many foodies, like poets, have a waxed philosophical point of view on the values and virtues of food and wine. For some it's about the power of principles of cooking and winemaking, molecular gastronomy and its formulas and rules; the modern vintner replacing the human palate for scientific measurements etc. But for me, food and wine is simply about joy and attraction. I savor every bite and I enjoy every drop. Every bite of food has unique flavor, as does every bottle of wine, and each tells a different story. Wine is a pleasure, a gift from nature, and a testament to a winemaker's years of hard work. As for food, a good dining experience should be an unforgettable one. The chef is the artist, the ingredients- the medium, and the plate is the canvas. At the end of a meal, the guest should have been swept away somewhere momentarily, and sublimely submerged by flavors, aromas, and textures - if not completely swept away by the company. Today's food and wine tells the story of Spain.

I love the anticipation and excitement that goes along with finding a new restaurant to check out. I hope to seek out some new and interesting flavors, and find an exotic or boutique wine, therefore, today's adventure took me to Andalucia, Spain. Andalucia is the largest region of Spain that combines mountains and beaches, known for it's historic fishing village, and amazing vinegars and oils. Sounds like a stellar combination of attributes for a perfect Spanish restaurant. And there it was - Andalus. A little piece of Andalucia in Miami.

We walked about a half mile in the summer heat through designer stores and artist blocks until we arrived at Andalus. Welcomed by a Spanish server, we were offered a crisp house Albarino - Spain's signature white wine. We opted for the dinner menu instead of the short lunch menu so that we could get a broader selection of dishes. After scrutinizing the menu, and trying to figure out what some ingredients were, (that's all part of the fun) while munching on some crusty bread with olive oil and salt - we chose chorizo simmered in cider with goat cheese, fried cuttlefish with eggs, seafood stuffed piquillo peppers, and handmade ham croquettes. The dishes arrived in pairs while traditional and modern Spanish music transpired throughout the cream colored dining room dotted with cut red velvet roses at the tables . David Bisbal, Alejandro Sanz, and Montserrat Caballe intertwined our conversation about astrological signs and the surrounding diners; making you bounce back and fourth between the melody of the songs, the flavor of the food, and the conversation. Even though we were sitting in a design district restaurant in Miami, it seemed as though we were backpacking through Spain for a second and found a quiant little place to eat lunch.

Ecstasy...I guess for some, you would need drugs to feel something this good. Today, the food and the wine told the story of Andalucia.

Crazy Good Things

Crazy. It depends what you mean by crazy. I call it independent thinking. What do you call those days where you feel wide awake and so alive? Where your soul is ringing like a bell; When you feel worn out in the best way; and you're left wondering if paradise is where you fell for just a moment. It's the feeling you get when you open your window on a cool spring afternoon, let the breeze-the sun in, and listen to cheap radio songs, it's the dangerously freeing heartbeat that tells you there's nothing holding you back or the ahhhhhhh at the end of a release of an impulse......It's all the good things. Today was filled with all the good things. Crazy good things.

From a car ride that meant listening to an angelic voice softly hum to a couple of songs I like; even some in Spanish, a melody that was left for me not to take for granted. To a wonderful French bistro that led to the conversations I love. Sitting outdoors, talking over champagne and oysters about how at 18 years old, I used to dream of my trip to France therefore, I used to research culinary tours that immersed you in their culture- waking up to pick up a latte with a warm baguette and that incredible butter they have over there... a bike ride in the lavender fields... then, lunch. Something simple and lavish at the same time. A croque monsieur would do, followed by a quick nap. Then off to prepare dinner with a local who knows "everything" about the food of France. Someone like an old, fat, grandmother type that could magically put together the best coq au vin you've ever had. Cook this, drink that... then eat something unforgettable. Doesn't everyone dream of this at 18? LOL. Ok, maybe not so much so the jokes and laughter that followed made the time even better. The background music to this conversation: no less than actual French music. Edith Piaf at her best. You had to pause from time to time just to take in the music and the sunshine. Moments like these are few and far in between where you have to ask yourself, "seriously?" Now, it was time for a glass of white wine to pair with escargot. The choice: Reisling. The result: Perfect. Food is an adventure and should be fun. I find it exciting to share ordering responsibilties. After, a perfect dessert there was a perfect car ride back...only because it had to do with a discussion about Britney's career and a fantastic impersonation of the movie, Pretty Woman--- the epic scene where Julia Roberts cracks up at the snapping jewelry box.

Julia Roberts, Edith Piaf, Reisling, the best company in the world, and dreams of France...Crazy for one afternoon? Maybe. But it depends on what you call crazy. For me, it's that opening of the window on a cool spring day. Today had me wondering if it was paradise that I fell in for just a little while. Today, paradise was France. Cheers to all the good things...the crazy good things.

" I hate when something looks better in pictures than it really is"

Priviledged is the moment where we actually listen to the things we hear; Not just hear them by the natural means of our ears, but to actually take them in - let them mingle in our minds for a bit, and let the good stuff settle in our hearts. The things that settle in our hearts are the things that touch us, and the things that touch us, change us - and that is what makes who we are today.

Today I was told , "I hate it when something looks better in pictures than it really is." (regarding everything) . I've heard that a thousand times before from many different people, even in movies, I've heard that comment over and over. But today, it resonated with me. Today, I didn't simply hear it. I listened and it made me think.

What a powerful generalization. A common concern regarding disappointment over something that should or could have been better. I'm sure you've seen this a million times: websites that show these outrageously lavish hotels, and when you get there, its a small-rinkydink-establishment that left you high and dry with false hopes. "It looked way better on the website." Or how about a television star? They look great on tv, and then one day you see them in the airport or in a restaurant, and you take a glance and realize. " Whoa! they look way better on tv." The same goes for clothes. You see the new collection online or in the catalogue but when you actually go to the store and try it on, "Ooops, this looked way better online." How many times have you seen a horrible movie? "....but the previews looked awesome." Catch my drift....

It's so true that so many things look better in every other form other than real life. And then something amazing happens- a spontaneous collision - a lighting strike - .....a special person. Someone special walks into your life and nothing after that, is ever better in pictures than it really is. In my crazy head, there are some who live in a dream world, there are some who face reality, and then if you're lucky, there's someone who turns one into the other; a dreamworld into reality.

There are hundreds of wonderful snapshots in my memory, far too wonderful to put into words, priceless moments, excessive experiences, and amazing times..........So if I were to look at the BIG Picture of my life, I could never in a million years say "it looks better in pictures than it really is." Why? Not because of the beautiful landscape in the background, not because of the fun group of friends surrounding, not because of the luxurious setting, but because there's someone brilliant who turns a dreamworld, my dreamworld into a reality...

27 years

Today, as good as any day.
I think I'll take a moment to celebrate my age.
The ending of 364 days, the turning of a page.
It's time to focus on where I go from here,
Lord have mercy on my next 27 years!

In my next 27 years, I'm going to have some fun,
I'm going to do a little more of those good things I've done.
Maybe now that I've conquered all those dumb adolescent fears,
I'll do it all better in my next 27 years!

In my next 27 years, I'm going to sit in the chairs I want to sit in,
With the sunshine against my back, and watch the world go by...
With a heart so full of love, it feels short on time...
So if I ever sat there, for a reason that was unclear,
I'm sure going to make it count in my next 27 years!

So if I'm ever faced with a raw piece of chicken with mushrooms,
I'm not going to sneer,
I'm going to bite the bullet and smile.
If I went on and on about how great it was, it wasn't a lie, it was love,
I'm going to wish for more moments like those in my next 27 years!

In my next 27 years,
I'm going to makes sure the fortune that I seek,
Is the fortune I need.
I'm not going to let any precious moments slide,
I'm going to treasure all those times,
That make me feel I have diamonds on the inside.
I'm going to put my heart in 5th gear,
My next 27 years!

Thank you, God for the past 27 years!

I bet you a dollar, Gregg Lederman

The economy is apparently on a steady rise and so is the motivational speaking industry. What last year seemed like a gloomy, desolate, ghost town - is now a pumping urban metropolis. Bookings for experts, authorities, and motivational speakers seem to be in great demand this year as our country slowly emerges from economic rehab; companies are in need of that caffeine jolt, that extra jump to get their focus and fervor back. For those that may not know, sometimes I trade my chef coat, for.......................? Well, whatever a motivational speaker is supposed to wear. It's only January and I have 32 bookings already for 2011! However, I am no expert and no authority on anything. I simply share my experiences and what I have learned from this roller coaster ride, I call my life, and hope that just one person-if that-in the audience is moved by it, and maybe just maybe- their life might be turned around. In the words of the great Maya Angelou, I believe it is our responsibility as human beings to learn as much as we can, love as much as we can, and accomplish as much as we can, because at our very best, we are teachers. And that is the only way for progression of the human race.

Earlier this week I had the privilege of sharing the stage with renown speaker, Gregg Lederman. He is the guy that everyone calls when they want to "take over the world", when they want their company to surpass every other company, when they want their bank accounts to quadruple. He is the author of " 10 truths you must know to increase company profits" and has branded himself as being driven by a relentless desire to help people. Upon shaking his hand on Monday morning, as we met for the first time, 5 minutes before showtime, he said, " I'm Gregg Lederman and I have made it my personal mission to dramatically improve people's lives by increasing their company's profits."

"WTF!!!???" as my stomach turned. This is exactly the prototype of public speaking I am against. Perhaps, that is why I am the black sheep of the industry? I went on to introduce myself and asked what business he owned; what made him an expert in this field? The answer I recieved was astounding as much as it was not surprising. Afterall, most "experts" answers are much like his. I couldn't blame him. The answer was "none. I have a speaking business." He went on and on about how he can make you a millionaire, how your money problems can dissappear, how having a lot of money makes you happy, etc. etc, etc. My stomach continued to turn and I just had to say something right before we went on, "Mr. Lederman, I bet you a dollar that if you tell those people out there a little bit about your life, your successes and failures, and what you have learned from everything, you might help them more than if you try to portray a profit guru. You might just say those few words that will motivate them to open up that store, to learn a foreign language, or to join that group that builds homes for the poor overseas. I bet you a dollar, Sir. Then, your relentless desire to help people might become real." I stood there on the black metal steps that led to the stage, two steps below him, and looked him straight in the eyes. I was secretly thinking, " Oh no! what did I just say to a this man who's made a career of this for 20 years?" I was getting cold sweats as I assumed my little outburst to Mr. Lederman would cost me any future bookings with FiveStar. " How could I have said this? I usually just swallow the crap people say. This isn't my first rodeo...ahhh!" I was in a silent panic. And then there was a pause.....and I realized that every single person out there deserved better than that. So if this was going to be my last booking with FiveStar, than it better be the best I've got. I took three steps more and was on stage, mic check...1....2.....3.........

I went from side to side, and then into the crowd as I entertained them with what I've earned, learned, what I've lost, the risks I've taken, the rewards I've obtained, my triumphs and failures. After all, how many people can say they've accomplished what I have? How many have been where I have been? Bad or good? How many have lost what I've lost? Losing has taught me what life may be. I've been to the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. It's a wonderful story to share, really. I find myself getting better at sharing it every time. I love my crazy roller coaster ride and I wouldn't trade it for a boring wake up every morning to make someone else money type of job, and I'll take it with all the sacrifice and extra stress it may bring. In the end, I can say I took the chance! I did it while you dreamed it!

You want to say the same? How bad do you want it?

Then, you have to be willing to lay it all down on the line. You have to go now, experience, dream, risk everything. Close your eyes and jump. Enjoy the free fall. Choose exhiliration over comfort, the unknown over predictability. Choose potential over safety. Wake up to a magical everyday life. Trust your intuition. Discover the beauty of uncertainty. Go with your gut instincts, they are always right. Know yourself fully before you make promises to anybody else. Make a million mistakes so that you will know what you really need. Know when to hold on and when to let go. Love hard and often without reservations. Seek knowledge, keep yourself open to possibilty. Keep your head high, your heart open, and your spirit free. Embrace your darkness along with your light. Be wrong every once in a while and admit it. Awaken to the brilliance of ordinary moments like seeing the sunshine when you wake up. Own your reality without apology. See goodness in the world, believe in God, and kick some ass. Be bold, fierce, and ambitious. Remember that nothing was ever written about the average normal person. Be grateful for every minute you are alive and breathing, because every minute is another chance to do something you haven't done.

And if you don't do this, the only reality you will own is one of which is one of the greatest truths ever told, " In ten years, you will regret more what you haven't done as opposed to the things you have done. " The time is Now!

I looked at the faces of the crowd, they were overwhelmed with emotion, it was amazing! I knew at that very moment someone, at least one person was walking out of there earger to do something, to make something happen, to change their current situation.

I didn't give them a formula to become rich, I didn't advise them to take over the world. But " I bet you a dollar, Gregg Lederman, someone is walking out of here rich."

Someday Syndrome ( Someday is only for kids)

" Someday, I want to be a big girl!" says a little girl.

"Someday I want to be a big boy!" says the little boy.

" Someday I want to grow up and go to college!" say the children.

Then, the children grow up and go to college and say, " Someday, I'm going to be a successful............(insert career). Then, they go to college, graduate, and say, " Now, I graduated. Someday, we're going to get married, buy that nice house, and that's it!"

A couple years go by and nothing happens but you still hear, " Someday."

Now you have this young couple recently married, with a new house, a mortgage, and says " Someday, when we're doing better finiancially, we will........ (insert dreams)."

A couple of years later and a couple of kids later, now that couple says, " Well, when the kids get older and get this place paid off, we will..... (insert dreams)" The kids get older, and then, "Well, now the kids have to go to college and that's expensive so I guess, when the kids move out and go to college, we will..... (insert dreams)"

By this time, the couple that once had the world in their hands and a lifetime ahead of them, is now saying, " Someday, when we retire, we're going to buy that motorhome and travel the US. We're going to see all those places we've wanted to see."

And then one sad day, on their way to the grave, they place their hand over their forehead and say, "My gosh, we've spent our whole life planning for Someday and forgot about today. We forgot to live while life was here."

You see, someday only sounds good when children say it full of hope. As adults, someday, is full of fear, procrastination, and inaction.

There is not one person that has a contract that garauntees they will have tomorrow. There's not one person that can bring back yesterday. What we have is today.

ARE YOU PLANNING FOR SOMEDAY? OR Are you taking the right steps, surrounding yourself with the right people, and making the right choices? so that your Today is nothing less than amazing.

Catch the rest tomorrow January 10, 2011 at University of Miami

One in Millions but One in a million

'Tis the season to................ It's Christmas everyone! If you haven't noticed the change of weather, the big sale storefront signs, and the decorations everywhere, 'tis the season to be grateful for what you have and show that special someone that they're the reason you work so hard all year round to give them all their heart desires.

To the teller at the bank, they're just another checking account. To plumber or the guy that fixes the air conditoning, they're just another house. To the waiter at the fancy restaurant, they're just another tip. While that might seem like one in millions, that person is one in a million to me. And I consider myself the luckiest person in the world to have spent a year trying to show a very special person they are one in a million to me.

Speaking of one in a million, this reminds me of my junior year of high school, I took A.P. Economics, and my teacher opened a class by saying, " Almost any man can learn to earn money, but one in a million knows how to spend it." Back then, it didn't resonate with me. It really didn't make a difference. I simply remembered it because of how I tried to make sense of it . Back then, I wondered if it meant proper investing, wise monetary choices, buying stocks, etc. These days it makes complete sense and it has nothing to do with buying stocks. It has to do with your heart. That day, my teacher closed the class by saying, "A racehorse that consistently runs just a few seconds faster than another is worth millions of dollars more. Being willing to give that extra effort is what separates the winner from the one in second place."

Almost ten years later, that class lingers in my mind, and I'm glad it has. You see, it doesn't matter if you make one dollar or you make a million dollars. What matters, is if you spend what you can, from your heart. Give it a backbone, give it some deep rooted meaning. For most of us, we get a pay check, we go to the mall, and we buy Christmas gifts. My hope for this holiday season is that we all give our "one-in-a-million" that extra effort. I hope that we don't go for the Big Sale storefront signs and the long lines, don't narrow down the giving to Christmas Day. A flower doesn't cost much, and a wild flower doesn't cost anything, leave a little note on the refrigerator. And if you want to break the bank on them, do it. Buy the diamond. Afterall, they are the reason you work so hard day in and day out.

The places I've visited today, and the decorations I've seen everywhere, have all made me think it's Christmas time! But more so, it reminds me how much I have to thank God, for my "one-in-a-million" And that's why, I will do my best to make this Christmas... "One-in-a million." 'Tis the season to MAKE IT COUNT.

Birds and Thanksgiving

It's Thanksgiving...literally, the day of Thanksgiving and it's been about a month or so that all we hear about is the bird (in regards to the turkey). The bird in the stores, the bird on tv, the bird on front covers of consumer magazines; making us obsess over making the perfect bird, or craving that perfect bird. Bird! Bird! Bird!

In retrospect, that got me thinking about birds in general. There's so much to say about birds; a little bird told me, birds of prey, birds of paradise, giving someone the bird, that's for the birds, the birds and the bees, birds eye view, birds of a feather flock together, early bird catches the worm, and my favorite from the movie - The Notebook - "If you're a bird, I'm a bird."

Speaking of movies, I do a live segment on Los Angeles's KIIS 102.7 fm where we feature a movie, combine it with a life lesson, and allow callers to tell us all about how they relate. It's just a way of getting out a positive message to younger listeners. One of the upcoming movies is the movie Restless by Gus Van Sant. There's this amazing scene about this beautiful songbird who thinks its going to die every sundown and in consequence, wakes up singing this magnificent song because its so grateful to still be alive. Bird lovers across the globe know this bird to sing the most beautiful song of all humming birds or songbirds. Something about this scene really struck a note in me. Gratitude is instilled even in birds, and that's what Thanksgiving is all about. Gratitude, thankfulness for the abundance we have in our lives.

Today, I don't want to be simply thankful for my family, our health, my friends, etc. I'm thankful for the wonderful things that have happened to me, and I'm also thankful for the horrible things that have happened to me, because they have made me the person I am today. I'm grateful for all the doors that have closed because each time, a window with a better opportunity has opened; for uncertainty and trying times, because it has given me fortitude and deliverance of faith; for hard work because it has given me endurance and dedication; for the things that have fallen apart beyond my control, because better ones have come together; for meeting all kinds of people, even bad ones, because that has made me feel lucky to meet the right ones; for every healthy day because it has given me priority and possibility; for the appreciation of art, because it has given me whimsical understanding; for serendipity because it has given me the assurance that there's no such thing as coincidence; for those days when things go wrong, because it has made me ecstatic when they go right.

Its Thursday, literally the day of Thanksgiving, November 25, 2010, and I feel like that songbird every morning when I wake up. Perhaps it's because I'm the luckiest person in the world to be able to say it in my heart, "If you're a bird, I'm a bird."

Thou shall not wear Khaki Pants...ever!

There are some days where you ask yourself, " Does it get any better than this?" and then, if you're lucky, there are days where you just know that it doesn't.

I still don't know how my head hasn't exploded from an overdose of all things astoundingly beautiful. I'm talking about a day where everything just falls together effortlessly, simple, undemanding, and yet the end result is a masterpiece. This day was in fact a masterpiece.

It began midday with a light patio lunch on the 15th floor, overlooking the prestine biscayne bay. We sat sandwiched between a couple of other gorgeous high rises, nestled in a small marble table sipping on some Purple haze, as we discussed menu items and why I was wearing khaki pants.

Yes, we were debating my fashion sense and how I looked like a billboard for GAP, as I sat there in my black tshirt from Banana Republic and my Khaki cotton pants. Clothes never make me feel self-conscious but debating my fashion sense definetely gets a good laugh out of me, I do admit to overstepping the boundaries of boring and common sometimes - hence the GAP comparison. After a few bites of great guacamole, a shortrib tostada, and an incredible sushi roll, substituting my unexciting khaki pants seemed like the only logical thing to do....actually, substituting my entire outfit seemed like the only logical thing to do. Off to the mall we were! We had a couple of hours to kill before dinner reservations at a well sought out restaurant.

Giving the task to someone to dress you while you watch them choose all the different articles, could be a pretty entertaining thing. It's funny to see the things they'd choose for you, things you'd never choose on your own. I think this shopping process shed some light on my fashion sense. I was able to see that I was attracted to exactly the same type of clothes all around...black, grey, dark green...no ruffles, no strange patterns, no wild colors. It's not that I don't like them, it's just that I'm simply more quickly drawn to those other colors rather than something bright or vivid. After a really good time people watching, trying on clothes, and picking just the right outfit for dinner (afterall "khakis were a big no-no) , there was only one thing left to do before our reservaton. Change our clothes in the car! I felt like a couple of outlaws, a scene from a Life Less Ordinary, or something just as sketchy but exhilirating at the same time. We were all set for a fabulous dinner but had no idea what was in store...

One of my favorite parts of a dining experience anywhere is the element of surprise. Some places you know exactly what to expect. You know what you're going to get and how you're going to get it. Most places fail to deliver the WOW factor and even though I am always eagerly searching for it, I rarely find it. This time would prove to be one of those rare occassions.

Stepping into this restaurant, you are immediately fascinated by its nautical design - it almost has a Hamptons, northeastern feel to it. Being ten minutes early for our reservation, the hostess politely guided us to the bar and suggested a couple of cocktails before our table would be ready. One strawberry-candy like drink and a mojito. I love watching bartenders make drinks that actually require real fruit and extracting flavors by muddling, squeezing, and stirring - not just pouring and mixing. As the bartending was slicing berries and sqeezing lemons and limes, I was tasting the drink in my head. A couple of sips, and I was a happy camper. The hostess quickly took us to our outdoor table...and there it was....the WOW factor. A corner table at the very edge of the terrace of the hotel overlooking the ocean as the sunset approached. There is something eminently magical about a sunset. Maybe its the way it outlines the tall palm trees, maybe its the way it makes the ocean sparkle, or maybe its the way it signifies the day is ending; ending with hopes that you did it right, with hopes that this day was great. Maybe it the closing of a day, but the beginning of so much more that lay ahead. I tell you...something about those sunsets.

As for the meal, have you ever had a meal where sparks fly? I find it difficult to put into words how amazing this meal was. Luscious, creamy burratta Mozzarella, crusty bread with eggplant capponata, mascarpone butter, and a rustic Italian olive oil. Exuberantly, I awaited the next dishes hoping they'd be better but thinking that wouldn't be possible as this first course held its awesome status. The next dish was delicate and astounding beef tartare with a quail egg and shaved Alba white truffles. The Excutive Chef himself came out to our table to shave the white truffles onto our tartare dish. It was a jaw dropping experience as the aroma from the white truffles perfumed the ocean breeze. It was at that very moment as I sat there while the truffles glided through the air onto the plate ever so graceful, with my glass of wine, in this picturesque setting, and I thought to myself, "I really don't know how my head hasn't exploded from experiencing these outrageous larger than life moments. Sometimes I feel like I'm on ecstasy." Next, was this polenta that was cooked for 8 hours in milk that deserved a standing ovation. I didn't know if I was eating a creamy cheese or a corn product. It was silky, indulgent, and most definetely the kind of food you close your eyes to catch yourself for a moment....Or maybe you need a cigarette after (kidding I don't smoke). Each and every dish that followed was just as wonerful keeping my state of bliss at a steady nirvana. Speaking of bliss, after a couple of handcrafted pasta dishes, we couldn't skip dessert. I never order dessert but how could we skip dessert at a place that exceeded all expectations? A semi frozen pannacotta with a guava soup. Refreshing. Perfect. Soothing. Just what you need after meal made for kings and queens.

As the night concluded with a happy stomach and a good buzz, I realized a couple of brilliant things. Thou shall not wear khaki pants! and the other thing is to be grateful for those days that turn out to be masterpieces...Those days where you ask yourself, "Does it get any better than this? " and then, if you're lucky, there are those days where you just know that it doesn't." Cheers to the masterpieces!

In the words of the Veronica's

So they say that Lyon and Rome have a couple of things in common. One of which is that they are both full of temperamental gourmets eternally engaged with the never-ending search of that imaginary, perfect, unknown, little backstreet bistro where one can dine in the style of Louis the XIV. While I don't consider myself a temperamental gourmet, I have to admit I am fully fascinated by the idea of sharing a bottle of wine, a couple of impeccable dishes, and just sitting there enjoying the company. I've taken my share of mediocre-poorly made dishes with a grain of salt so I find it perfectly natural that I would get uber-excited over a fantastic meal.

Today, it all began by a meandering car ride, to a place I had already been to, and well, I couldn't remember I was there once, much less what I ate when I visited, so that speaks for itself. However, that mistake or blissful indifference lead me to ponder something, I asked myself one of the most common thought-of questions ever---- "What's for lunch?" And after a long list of "been there, done that" places, one restaurant stood out above the rest. This is a place where you can order a few, exquisite dishes, a superb wine, and enjoy an eclectic artsy atmosphere. Don't go for people watching, it seems as though the people that were there forgot their personalities at home, they seemed blase, apathetic almost. Were they just bored of lunch, or bored of life? Okay, so forget people watching; make sure you go with someone who mirrors your passion for food, and you'll be sure to be in a foodie-paradise.

I don't know about you, but one of my favorite foods in the world is a very high quality mozzarella called Burratta. A rich, creamy indulgently smooth cheese, idealy paired with a dense balsamic reduction, throw in some braised red onions, fresh tomatoes, a housemade pesto, and you're in heaven. I paired this with a glass of Lagaria, an Italian reisling, and this combination was a gourmet hyperbole all around. You couldn't help but smile from the first bite, the first sip. The two together was definetely love at first bite. A couple of other dishes consisted of swordfish carpaccio, scallops with preserved lemons, marinated artichokes, and few slices of artisan Italian bread accompanied by a fruity and pungeant olive oil with a light sprinkle of sea salt. Simple, fresh, clean food , a delicious wine, and the company of someone who cracks you up.... really....does it get better than this? I love visting places that grant me the priviledge to say "The best I ever had." In this case, this restaurant allowed me to have the best mozzarella I have ever had anywhere. I guess I can scratch that off my bucket list.

Next time, you're thinking of heading to your local chain restaurant to fill up your belly, take time to think about where you're going. Make it special because dining, is one of the best things that we share as human beings. It should be a wonderful time of sharing, getting to know people, and getting to know yourself. You'll discover new things you like, things you might obsess over for a little while, and things you'll never want to taste again. Take time to actually enjoy sitting in your chair, embrace the atmosphere, and stare at the person across from you, take a mental picture, because in the grand scheme of things - it is a blessing that they are sitting there with you. Pay attention to what they enjoy, their reactions to certain things, and simply take in the dining experience. You'll get to know them a little bit better each time, something I believe my generation lacks of. We often fail to dedicate ourselves to getting to know someone, really. Real conversations, real meals, real time. After all, Bacchus had something right, " In a lot of good food, and good wine, there's a lot of truth."

Lyon and Rome can play host to those in search of the of the perfect, imaginary, little, unknown backstreet bistro where one can dine in the style of Louis the XIV. As for me, today, I consider myself priviledged and lucky to have found a place where I dined in the style of Louis XIV. Next time you go out to eat, I encourage you to find a place that offers a special exquisite item, check out for yourself if its the best you've ever had, order a glass of Lagaria if its available, take a mental picture of who's across from you, enjoy their company to the fullest, and take in the experience. I garauntee you'll be saying in the words of the Veronica's " I could get used to this."

A rock and a hard place

People (including myself) are often unreasonable, irrational, self-centered; forgive them ANYWAY. If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish ulterior motives. Be kind ANYWAY. What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create ANYWAY. If you find happiness, others may be jealous. Be happy ANYWAY. The good you do today may often be forgotten, do good ANYWAY. Give the best you have and it may never be enough. Give your best ANYWAY. In the end, it was between you and God; it was never between you and them ANYWAY.

While I am used to my erradic, fast-paced lifestyle, there has been few weeks in my lifetime as uncomposed, spontaneous, and poignant as this week. I've been put in all types of positions where I've had to use my judgement, my conscience, and my heart. I've even been asked to play Dr. Phil or cupid by a suprise person. It's been a week of fantastic news, bad news, realizations, and what I like to call U-turns. The funny thing is that in all this sentiment, I've never had more interviews, photoshoots, charity conferences, radio segments, and television shoots all in one week while the restuarant has been off-the-charts busy. Don't get me wrong, I am not complaining because I consider myself priviledged to be doing my work, its just been fabulously chaotic.

I am sure you've all heard of the saying " a rock and a hard place." Well, maybe that would be the theme of this week. I believe we are put through tests in life, and its how we react, and overcome them, that makes us the people we are today. I also believe in fate- and that you can't cheat fate so it's up to us to make the right choices along the way, to make it a good journey. We'll arrive to where we are supposed to the easy way or the hard way so we must make the best of it.

Imagine for a second that you have a strong dislike for chocolate (hypothetically), through the years, you and chocolate have nothing in common, in fact, you don't see eye to eye on alot of things. You don't like all that chocolate stands for and what chocolate consumes its time with. You don't even like the few conversations you've had with chocolate. All of sudden, chocolate comes to you for help. What do you do? Do you turn your back on him? Or do you swallow your pride and lend a helping hand? Do you advise him exactly as you would yourself (from the heart) or do you keep it simple and brush it off?

Imagine for a second that a person who made your life miserable in high school, now crosses paths with you professionally, and their job depends solely on your decision to be part of a business organization or not... do you go with "eye for an eye" or do you turn the other cheek, and take on the business opportunity just to salvage their job?

Imagine for a second, there's a lady selling sunflowers on the corner of a busy intersection in the sweltering hot summer heat every single day. You see her day in and day out covered in sweat, holding her sunflowers trying to make an honest living. You reach for your pocket to buy the flowers...you take out a $20. Do you insist on the change that you'll blow on something stupid or do you opt for giving the small gift that might put a meal on her dinner table?

That was just a little bit of the chaos...lol. So in a time where it's easy to brush off someone, turn the other cheek, or seek and eye for an eye, or just use the excuse that we are too busy to help someone. This is what I found to be utimately true and what I live by everyday, even when you are between a rock and a hard place: " People (including myslef) are often unreasonable, irrational, self-centered. Forgive them anyway. If you are kind people may accuse you of selfish ulterior motives. Be kind anyway. What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway. If you find happiness, other may be jealous. Be happy anyway. The good you do today may often be forgotten. Do good anyway. Give the best you have and it may never be enough. Give your best anyway. In the end, it is between you and God, it is never between you and them anyway.

And if you're curious about the choices I made....I helped out the chocolate as best as I could. I took on the business opportunity, and I didn't ask for the change.

Afterall, to me, it's about making it count....

Shangri- La

Shangri La.... the mystical earthly paradise of the Orient, the Hymalayan utopia, and the fictional permanent happy place in Tibetan scriptures that depicts a beautiful azalea garden. The Garden of Eden, if you will, hidden from and treasured by modern man. But Shangri-La was not oceans nor continents away from me on this exquisite dinner. Shangri-La was situated at Hakkasan at the Fountainbleau for this uber-perfect dinner....or gastronomic journey...whichever.

Few things intrigue me and excite me as much as the fuse between cuisine and culture. It's that spark that allows me to travel to a foreign place via its food and tradition and I don't mean to sound cliche or like all those travel channel guys - But there is truth to this amazing taste trek.

Hakkasan is voted as one of the top 50 restaurants in the world, rated AAA four diamond, and I was there to see if it would live up to the hype? Come on, let's face it, most restaurants nowadays are let downs but this one, would prove this theory wrong...........finally.

This unforgettable meal started with these bold, slightly daring, exotic martinis called the Hakka and Lost Heaven laced with flavors of lychee, passion fruit, nashi pear, guava, coconut milk, tequila, and Russian standard Vodka. They made Cosmos look like babies in their diapers. A few sips of these bad boys and you knew you were in some kind of Shangri La for sure. All I could do was sit there in awe of the decor and ambience trying not to be swept away by its aura.

"Here's the dim sum platter, " the server softly voiced over the contemporary Asian music. On the menu it simply reads "Dim Sum Platter" therefore you do not know what's in store. Is it pork? Is it crab? Or is it vegetables? What it should read is " Ridiculously, Insanely, Amazing Dim Sum" I can say this because I have been priviledged enough to eat at the dim sum capitals in the country, New York City, San Franscisco, and Los Angeles, not to mention my little stint at the Mandarin Oriental where I was surrounded by dim sum on the daily. However, this Dim Sum was in a catergory all its own. The pungeant flavors, the precision in the density of the steamed wrapper, the freshness of the ingredients, were all factors in making this the best dim sum I've ever had.

Corn-fed Chicken and Jellyfish....WTF??? Yes, Jellyfish and guess what? It was delicious! I'll admit, I was bit apprehensive at first, being a jellyfish virgin and all, but with a little open mindness and strong curiosity, this attested the notion of "don't knock it, till you try it." The texture and flavor is similar to seaweed so imagine having a seaweed salad or something similar. Next, I enjoyed a fried softshell crab with Chili and Curry leaf which turned out to be perfectly fried crispy, not greasy, and full of flavor. Now remember, inbetween bites and dishes were the sips of the Hakka and Lost Heaven elevating the experience more and more. I felt like I was about to ....???? Kidding, but I do confess that I had to brace myself for the star of the evening - Ostrich! Yes, I'm talking about the huge bird with the long neck that's super awkward and kinda funny even just to look at. Boy, is ostrich delicious. It tasted just like beef tenderloin. Following the orgasmic overload of deliciousness, was a crispy duck roll. Truthfully, I am not a fan of Chinese five-spice because I don't "usually" enjoy cinnamon and other strong spices in my food, but I use the term "usually" because this time, Hakkasan made me enjoy Chinese five spice. The duck was moist and crispy; and oxymoron by nature and the wrapper was delicate and crunchy.

Now that brings us to the grande finale, and my head feels like it's about to explode from epicurean euphoria (something I am proudly addicted to), a white chocolate mousse with a passion fruit sorbet. If you read that sentence over again, atleast the part of white chocolate mousse with passion fruit sorbet, it sounds so modest and noble. NOT! This dessert deserved a standing ovation. The rich velvetty white chocolate mousse, with a delectable brown sugar crust complemented the sweet and sour passion fruit sorbet. The passion fruit sorbet was so vibrant and fresh, it felt like a firework in my mouth. Actually, it was like 4th of July in there. I was very close to getting out of my chair and giving it a round of applause before I realized that would have been categorized as wierd by other diners. Honestly, at that point, I didn't care what was wierd or not. I had just experienced what few ever get to even dream of experiencing. The food, the ambience, or the smile across from me...I don't know which one it was that had me high but the fact remains, I was high. As my quest through Asia came to an end, I realized few meals are as wonderful as this...I had experienced my very own version of the paradise of the Orient, the Hymalayan utopia, the permanent happy place in Tibetan scriptures. With every bite, every sip, and every look, Shangri La was at Hakkasan on this day, and now as I look back on it, it was a Lost Heaven....or just heaven...whichever.

I hope that's me

There's a few times where special things happen that most of would like to say at some point, " I hope that's me." At 6 years old, we see a superhero or princess on tv or in a storybook, and we say " I hope that's me" with an innocent aspiration that one day, we will fly above the earth or wave a wond and wear a crown. At 13, we see our first crush with someone else during lunchtime, and we think, " I hope that's me." From 15-17 years old, we watch movies like Fast and the Furious or Can't Hardly Wait, and say " I hope that's me" in anticipation of that car, or that guy; the new mustang, being popular, and wearing the right clothes has your head spining. As highschool comes to a close, you begin to think about your future, what you'll be, what will make your parents proud, and what will give you the life you've always dreamed about. Even though you'll think about those things, its not until voting for your prom king and queen that'll have you wishing, " I hope that's me." Before you know it, you're like Asher Roth and you love college, and road trips to Daytona and endless games of beer pong have you saying, " I hope that's me."

Then one day, all of a sudden you're stuck in an early morning class getting over last night's festivities, and the beaming sunlight through the classroom window reminds you of the days when you were little, and you splashed around having fun in an inflatable pool full of dad's hot air, and it made you think how much he loved you to fill up that pool with his breath, and that made you think " I hope that's me" one day.

At 23, you're graduated and it's the first day of your first job as what you studied to be, and you look at your boss and you plan in a few years, " I hope that's me." Now you're 25 and head over heals with enough sense about life, and they get a cold, someone's got to run and get them nyquil and soup, you say to yourself, " I hope that's me. " Now, every Valentine's Day comes around, and someone's got to get all dressed up for an unforgettable night and your heart says, " I hope that's me." Now, you go to your first wedding as an adult, and you look at the happy couple starring into eachother's eyes as they say I do, and all the moments flash in your mind, how you met, the magic that lays between the both of you, and as he lifts her vail the world stops for a second, your soul says, " I hope that's me."

A few years ago, when I went to my first Chef's Congress in New York City, I was merely 21 years old, I remember seeing all the star chefs representing their restaurants. They were proud, shining of their craft, it was something that made them stand out from the masses. I remember walking and tasting all of their dishes, and wondering, how much work and effort did they undergo to get there? I remember standing there as an outsider, as a fan, as a student, and thinking that my admiration at that point was a testament to their passion, and I stood inspired for the rest of my life. They were successful at the riskiest business in the country, and I thought that day at 21 years old, " I hope that's me."

I am so grateful for all I have seen and done in my life up to now, and excited for what's to come, but that only leaves one thing to hope for. When I am old and gray, sitting on a front porch on a swinging bench, remeniscing of all the crazy wonderful stories my life allowed me to experience, laughing to tears at some of them, holding a Pellegrino water bottle in one hand, and looking at the person who allowed me to share the most beautiful lifetime possible, the person who gave me a reason to be better, the person who gave a definition to the things we hope for. As we swing, as we'll remember everything, I'm thinking now, " I hope that's you."

Sublime Wavelength

I'll never forget the first time I didn't eat with you. Yes, I said I "didn't" eat. I think it was nachos....

Have you ever stopped to think about the sublime moments in life, the ones that seem too good to be true, 10 feet off the ground, or you have to pinch yourself to make sure you're not dreaming? Being a chef, of course some of these moments revolve around food in some form. Nonetheless, to me, food cannot be completely spectacular without someone great to share it with. Something I like to call a sublime wavelength. There is something remarkable about the euphoric suspense of experiencing a new restaurant, a new dish, something foreign or strange, an exalted wine, or something noble and close to home that everyone is raving about. You know that feeling...you know what I am talking about.

I love all kinds of foods; I'm into all types of Asian cuisine, I consider myself a hotdog conisseur, and well, if it's Mexican, it's got me all over it. Like a little kid at Christmas, I anticipate a great meal, like a child anticipates Santa Clause. While this might spell out nerd for many people, for me, its quite brilliant to spend a couple of hours with someone and get one-on-one time. It's usually around a table, sharing something good, that great conversations rise. Some famous philosopher once said that you'll get to know a person's best qualities sitting around a dinner table - and well, I agree. Around a dinner table, you'll see if someone is daring, you'll see if they are conscientious, if they are well mannered, if they have a sense of humor, if they're cultured, and if you're sharing a bottle of wine, you'll see their views on anything from politics to love and everything in between.

Going to an exotic or interesting place can mean traveling without leaving your seat. I know I am not the only one that imagines themselves in Japan, while they're in a great Japanese place or in Italy when they're eating a rustic Italian dish. All jokes aside, sharing a great dining experience with someone special can be phenomenal and unforgettable. I remember one time we sat outdoors in this small but highly reccommended posh-posh restaurant, the sun was beaming off the blue sky making it warm on a winter day, we ordered Japanese oysters and a lobster po'boy. No oysters have ever been that good, but I still don't know if it was the setting, the company, or the oysters? But I sure feel lucky to ask myself that question. Another time, we were oceanfront in a cantina, eating the best chicken wings on earth, I'm at a loss for words here. And I can't forget the time, we picked up stone crabs and champange to eat at the very edge of Key Biscayne. See what I mean about a sublime wavelength? Grab someone who's on the same wavelength as you, go out there and enjoy the great restaurants your city has to offer, taste things you've never tasted before, don't be afraid to get to know your server just a little (you might learn something - atleast about the menu - if not, they'll entertain you somewhat.)

But most importantly, next time you're out somewhere, it could be at a burger joint or a 5-star place, don't forget to pay attention to who's sitting right across from you. Pay attention to their stories, their reactions to the foods, what they pick off the menu, if they smile at the server, because there is something magical about sharing a meal, trust me. In a fast paced world where our minds are on everything but what actually matters, there's one thing we can keep slow and special, Baucchus and Robert Mondavi both couldn't be wrong about the finest things in life.

A million bites later, a thousand stories ago, and hundreds of restaurants under our belts, I still remember the first time I "didn't" eat with you. I think it was nachos....and it was the beggining of foodie oddessy....a sublime wavelength.

"Whatever you're on, I would like some too?...please share!"

Fortunate, lucky, priviledged...all of the above. It was a day out of a movie, a novel, a song, whichever. It seemed like a good choice to start the day by basking around in a zero-edge rooftop pool in between sunbeams and clouds with a cold beer; something that should be somewhat illegal for a Monday.....followed by an enchanting nap in the sand- oceanside with the sounds of the waves, birds, far away conversations, and the salty air embrassing your skin. And here come the cinematic effects: we were only awakened by flawless, unspoiled ocean rain moving in.

Mondays don't mean the typical "back in the grind" begining of the work week, I hate life, shoot me I'm going to work, Monday. While most of the country's population dreads mondays, to me they mean rendezvous, tryst, bliss therefore, this dinner would not fall short of any of these. Let me tell you about this dinner...

It could have been the zen mood from the perfect beachside siesta, the anticipation of a four star meal, or the decor of the gothic cathedral meets modern luxury. I don't know what it was, but we were on such a natural high that the server came up to our table and closely whispered, " whatever you're on, I would like some too. Please share. " . As we made our way around a bottle of Champagne, three appetizers, one soup, two special entrees, dessert, and 20 year old Port, I couldn't help myself, the smiles and giggles were abundant and superflous. It was obvious to our server that we were having a wonderful time, so much that it was contagious to him as well. Steak Tartare, Lamb Spare Ribs, White bean Dim Sum, Lobster Bisque, Soft shell Crab, Indonesian Prawns, Basil Mashed Potatoes, Ginger-candied Carrots, pickled Green Onions, Marbled Chocolate and Grand Marnier Soufle, all of this entwined with conversations of flavors, greek philosophers, and one of my all time favorite activities ---- people watching. As we looked around, no one in the dining room seemed as happy as we were to be there. You could easily say the party was definetely at our table. Some of the customers even looked dreary and upset to be dining at a beautiful four star restuarant. Some, I guess need a makeover- a life makeover that is. As for me, I was sipping that last bit of Port extremely slow because I didn't want the magnificent dinner to end.

Fortunate, lucky, priviledged? Yes. Blessed, thankful, grateful? Even more. I felt so blessed because for that moment, for that span of time, during that dinner, we were feeling so happy/so good that it poured right out of us and became infectious to others. Almost envied. That's why we were asked, "whatever you're on, I would like some too." The way I see it, life is to be lived that way, enjoyed that way, and shared with someone that way...so that others might ask you what it is that you're on?

Greenstreet, Serendipity, and Airplanes

I do not know if it was the steamy sunshine of the morning, the red velvet antique couches, the sparkling mimosas, or the idea of it being a holiday and everyone's carefree attitude that attributed to all the serendipity in the air. Maybe its one of these or its all of these that made breakfast, brilliant at Greenstreet Cafe this morning. Incredible, starving, insatiable, magical adorned the place and reflected how I felt upon entering.

A twenty minute wait meant going to the whimsical bar decorated with tiny white clay men doing some type of ballet or gymnastic excerise (pretty interesting if you ask me) to order mimosas. They were simple and perfect consisting of the "just rite" juice to champagne ratio. As I looked around, while the drinks were being made, I couldn't help but think that this is an ideal place for those who have lost touch with their sense of wonder. Was I in a scene from Alice in Wonderland? except this scene had omlettes and pancakes in it?.....

Now, fifteen minutes to kill meant sitting on the antique red velvet couches with mimosas in hand, an experience all its own, but this one would be different because instead of people watching, it seemed as if we were yorkie watching. Yes, you read correctly...yorkie watching. Almost everyone had a miniature yorkie by their side. Someone even had three. When the fifteen minutes were up, we were escorted to our petite, wrought iron table, outdoors, reminiscent of those somewhere crossed between central park and Paris. There, we sat surrounded by bustling servers, vacant conversations, and great food.

Hmmmmm, what to order? Honestly, I couldn't even pay attention to the menu because all my other senses were so occupied. The final verdict - a goat cheese and tomato omlette accompanied with a bagel and the best cream cheese I've ever had. The food took quite a bit but that didn't matter, it could have taken all day if it were up to me, that moment spelled out "happy to be here" in every form, and in every language. There are many moments in life that go unnoticed, ignored, or taken for granted but this one was just one of those that couldn't go in that direction. Breakfast was taken to completely new level, unexpectedly. After devouring the delicious omlette and bagel, we were off to whatever the rest of the day would bring us.

All of a sudden, B.O.B's new song "Airplanes" comes on the radio during the ride home..." Can we pretend that airplanes in the night sky are like shooting stars, I could really use a wish right now, a wish right now, a wish right now. " As the song went on and on, I asked myself, " Could I use a wish right now?" the answer that rushed to my head as I looked to my right, "no."

I do not know if it was the steamy sunshine of the morning, the red velvet antique couches, the sparkling mimosas, or the idea of it being a holiday and everyone's carefree attitude that attributed to all the serendipity in the air. Maybe it was one of these or maybe it was all of these that made breakfast, Brilliant.

Wafel, not Waffle!

These days, I find myself craving a Belgium Wafel. The real kind if you know what I mean, fairly odd-shaped, crispy top, and perfectly decadent. The American waffle can be sort of limp, dense, and too sweet; the Beligium wafel prances around between airy, crisp, and it finds the precise balance between sweet and salty, making the maple syrup (its partner in crime, it's Bonnie) stand out impeccably.

There's something nostalgically pleasing about a warm, buttery Belgium wafel drizzled with pure maple syrup, and homemade whipped cream, and maybe, just maybe some fresh ripened strawberries.

For the sake of novelty, Belgium wafels translate into sitting in a picturesque outdoor cafe in Brussels, in wrought-iron chairs, a glass of good Champagne, the somewhat cool/somwhat caressingly, warm Belgium breeze, and those fabulous wafels. But for those not on that side of the globe and Brussels might seem like a far shot, tomorrow is Sunday.... some celebrate daylight on Sundays with a big breakfast --- Belgium Wafels sound like a great idea to me! Ok, if I could only find my waffle iron.....I might just be Crate and Barrels first customer tomorrow morning. LOL.