Miami was recently crowned with the dubious distinction of having the highest inflation rate in the country. While New York or Los Angeles might seem more likely for this title, it is no surprise that inflation is running amuck in Miami.

Combine recent trends like “pent up demand” for travel and “work from anywhere,” along with longer term trends like the great migration south and it’s no surprise that Miami has gotten pricey. More people chasing fewer goods.

Fortunately, not everything in Miami will cost you 25-50% more than it used to. You just need to know where to look. A great deal might be hiding in clear site.

Housed in the swanky SLS hotel, Japanese restaurant Katsuya is known for having some of the best sushi and Japanese fare in Miami Beach. The popular spot—with other locations in Los Angeles and New York—is not exactly a “deal” though. Perhaps not the main dining room, but hiding in clear site lies a deal. You just need to look up [stairs].

On the second level of Katsuya you’ll find the Dragon Lounge and a happy hour deal that is hard to beat. From 6-8pm, Monday – Friday, you can satiate your hunger and thirst with some of the best sushi, small bites and drinks in the area.

Enjoy classic and contemporary cocktails, beer and wine and world-class sushi, all in a hip setting that features murals by local Miami artists.

With $8 sushi rolls and other delicious eats at very reasonable prices, this is one spot worth searching for.

Currently on the Dragon Lounge happy hour menu:

Salmon Lemon Roll Scallion—scallion, asparagus, salmon, masago ($8)

Spicy Tuna Roll—tuna, cucumber, scallion, masago ($8)

Katsuya Veggie Roll— avocado, asparagus, cucumber, tofu, ponzu sauce ($8)

Asparagus Fries— tofu, yuzu aioli, sesame, furikake, togarashi ($8)

Truffle Fatty Tuna and Spicy Salmon Crispy Rice— Nikiri soy, shaved truffle, furikake spicy mayo ($19)

Short Rib Fried Rice— jidori egg, leeks, mixed veggies, cilantro ($18)

Crispy Brussel Sprouts—balsamic tsume, toasted almonds, scallions, sriracha, toasted coconut shaving ($8)

Short Rib Bao Bun—steamed bum, ponzu mayo, BBQ sauce, black sesame ($11)

Spring and fall is a perfect time to try new wine varietals. While the hot summer months can lull us into a strict diet of rose and Sancerre and the colder months beg for bigger reds to pair with our winter comfort foods, the shoulder season lends itself to virtually anything. If you have been wanting to expand your wine horizons and try new varietals, now is the time to do so.

I recently tried a varietal that I have only had a few times—Pinot Meunier. If you haven’t heard of this varietal—a cousin to Pinot Noir—don’t fret. Not many people have. Pinot Meunier can taste very similar to Pinot Noir, with classic strawberries on the nose, medium body and earthiness, however it typically has higher acid levels and can be a bit meatier.

Pinot Meunier enjoys the same cool microclimates that Pinot Noir does, thriving in the fog and limited sunshine that make areas like Burgundy and Carneros so ideal. If done right, Pinot Meunier has layers of bright red fruits, spice and an earthy elegance, yet with more savory notes than Pinot Noir.

Similar toGamay, Pinot Meunier is often overlooked by consumers. Most wine lovers are probably not even aware of the varietal, yet sommeliers are well aware of it and its versatility with food. While it has plenty of fruit, it also has savory mushroom notes that can work well with rustic chicken dishes and richer pasta dishes.

Pairs with many foods

I recently tried the Bouchaine Pinot Meunier from Carneros at a restaurant in New York with “Gnocchi di Semolino alla Romana”—a classic, simple Gnocchi with Gorgonzola cream sauce dish—and it paired beautifully. While Pinot Meunier does not have quite the tannins that Pinot Noir does, it has just as much, if not more acidity, making it a great choice for higher fat content dishes. If you like your reds with plenty of acidity but do not always yearn for a Cabernet of Bordeaux style wine, try Pinot Meunier and you may be pleasantly surprised.

Tasting Notes:

Bouchaine’s 100-acre estate vineyard lies on the southern border of Napa Valley’s Carneros district, overlooking the San Francisco Bay with the city visible in the distance on clear days. Fog, wind, and the cold night time temperatures of this unique geographical area lend a distinctive regional identity to this Pinot Meunier.

According to Bouchaine, The 2019 growing season was a “Goldilocks” vintage—not too cold, not too hot. Late rains in May and some storms threatened the vines, however sunshine eventually won that battle resulting in a very consistent growing season.

Bright red fruits—strawberries, raspberries, cranberries and even pomegranate—waft out of the glass, leading to more earthy and savory notes of mushrooms, roasted meats and leather. Light tannins and ample acidity on the palate result in a very approachable wine that can pair with many foods. The Bouchaine Pinot Meunier—with it’s bright fruit and ample acidity—will go very nicely with a rich pasta dish (cream sauce over red sauce) or a classic French Roast Chicken Jus.

Some say that Coq au Vin dates all the way back to the times of Julius Caesar, whereas others are quick to point out that the earliest known recipe was found in a cookbook from the 1860s. This classic dish—often served during the colder months—is the very definition of French comfort food. Continue reading →

One of Italy’s most refreshing and food-friendly wines, Lambrusco is an effervescent red wine from Italy that has taken some time to catch on in the U.S. but is finally starting to creep out of obscurity. Continue reading →

In the hyper- inflationary world we live in, value has never been more important when considering your wine purchases. Value, however, does not necessarily mean “cheap.” It simply means you are getting something at a better price relative to its peer group—in this case, wines of similar quality.

Here are 8 wines we love, ranging from $12-$60, that I consider a good value.

La Forge Estate Syrah 2018 (SRP $12)

The Languedoc region is located in Southern France, along a Mediterranean coastal area known as “The Occitanie” that stretches from the Spanish border to Provence.

First-generation winemaker (fourth generation grape grower) Jean-Claude Mas is one of the leading new winemakers in this area of Southern France that is making some really exciting wines at great prices.

This wine has an intense nose, with notes of crushed flowers and blueberry combined with white pepper and licorice, supported by a hint of oak. Full-bodied with plush tannins, this Syrah has a smooth mouthful, with notes of grilled meats, tobacco, leather and blackberry current on the finish.

Chapoutier ‘Bila-Haut’ Cotes du Roussillon Blanc 2020 (SRP $15)

Chapoutier is a perfect example of “value does not necessarily mean cheap.” In fact, Chapoutier’s upper echelon wines are some of the most expensive in the Rhone Valley, yet still a good value. Their wines from the Languedoc region, however, come in at much lower points. And their ‘Bila Haut’ Cotes du Roussillon Blanc is downright cheap. Cheap and really good. You can’t find a better value than that.

A blend of Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Macabeu, Vermentino and Marsanne, this Cotes du Roussillon Blanc from world-class Rhone producer M. Chapoutier, is round and rich, yet balanced with good minerality, ample acidity and tons of bright flavors. Alluring white peach, quince and lemon zest give way to saline and limestone notes on the finish.

2019 Trivento Golden Reserve Malbec (SRP $20)

I have always liked Malbec as a plush, soft tannin, mellow alternative to bigger Bordeaux varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon. However, I have always felt there was a ceiling to its quality. That is before I met Germán di Cesare, chief winemaker at Mendoza Valley’s Bodega Trivento and tried two of their reserve Malbecs.

At $20, their “Golden Reserve” is a terrific wine and a great value. This wine reminds me of a Napa Valley red blend, with bright red fruits wafting out of the glass. The soft tannins and complex fruit-forward flavors make it a great match for a range of foods including filet of beef, hearty pasta dishes, hard cheeses and rich hors deurves.

2018 Carmel “Appellation” Cabernet Sauvignon, Galilee, Israel

Israel is one of the world’s most underappreciated wine regions and the quality of their wines is only getting better. From the Upper Galilee region, this Cabernet is fruit forward with red currents, holiday spices, anise and tobacco. The tannins are soft and plush allowing this wine to pair nicely with a lot of dishes, both simple and hearty.

2019 Benovia Sonoma Mountain Grenache ($45)

Benovia is known for their Russian River Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, which are also a relative value compared to some of the lofty prices coming out of Russian River these days. Rhone varietals often command much lower price points in Sonoma than the Burgundian varietals which the region is known for. This means they can be great values and at $45 a bottle, this Grenache is a steal.

Cherry, raspberry and crushed flowers are followed by pepper, spice, grilling meats and subtle oak notes. The soft but adequate tannins make this a nice wine to have with cheeses and passed appetizers, or as a cocktail wine.

2020 Drouhin Oregon Roserock Amity-Eola Amity Hills

If you’re into points, then this wine will definitely get your attention. With 95 points from James Suckling and 94 points from Wine Spectator (and on their Top 100 Wines list) you might think this wine would cost north of $100. It does not. At $35, with many accolades, your only problem is getting your hands on it.

Pear, white peach and lemon zest vibrate on the palate and linger for minutes. This wine is rich and opulent with great minerality and acidity making it a great match for many of your dishes this holiday season.

2016 Frank Family Blanc de Blancs (SRP $55)

Frank Family is one of the more expensive names in Napa Valley, yet they have some relative values when considering price-to-quality. Their sparkling wines are particulary good values in my opinion. Napa will never be able to compete with “Champagne,” nor do they try to. As a result, Napa producers are realistic about the demand for their sparkling wines and thus realistic on pricing. This presents an opportunity for consumers who are willing to trade vanity for value.

The 2016 Blanc de Blancs displays wonderful finesse, lightness, and elegance. A classic bouquet of lemon peel, green apple, and honeyed nuts persist to a pristinely fresh palate. Delicate beads of bubbles intermingle with hints of browned butter cut by crystalline acidity that converge with a long, tangy finish.

2018 Priest Ranch Brut Rose (SRP $60)

This luxurious méthode Champenoise sparkling wine is made entirely from estate-grown Syrah grapes from the Somerston Estate in the eastern hills of the Napa Valley. Aged 24 months on its lees, with an additional 24 months in bottle, this Napa Valley sparkler is smooth and complex with mouth watering flavors of tangerine and peach upfront and “strawberries and cream,” and macadamia nut on the finish.

Want to add some more flavor and pizzazz to your party using some of your red wine and champagne (or sparkling wine)?  Here is a great punch recipe—with a festive hue—from our resident mixologist, A.J. Rathbun.

Cardinal Punch

This is kind of a curious punch, at first glance, with its two liquors, two kinds of bubbles, English drawing room favorite claret (but no ascots to be found), and then (as if that weren’t enough), a curious coalescence of sweet vermouth, orange, pineapple, and a bit of simple syrup (well, maybe a touch more than a bit–a sweet bite, let’s call it). It almost seems, at that first glance, doomed to fail. But to use a metaphor that matches the title, it actually flies like a bird, with every flavor slipping here and there to the forefront (like birds in a flock as they fly, if I may be so bold), and with a serious enough undertone hiding within that it can both charm and fortify. As a bonus, it looks lovely, with a deep rich coloring. All in all, it’s so darn swell that I nominated it for Punch of the Year, 2008. And, you know what? It won. Of course, I was the only judge, but hey, that’s how the contest went.

Serves 10 to 12

12 ounces brandy

12 ounces dark rum

16 ounces claret red wine (Merlot or Cabernet will suffice)

12 ounces Simple Syrup

4 ounces sweet vermouth

1 ice round, or cracked ice

1 orange, cut into slices

5 pineapple rounds, cut into chunks

One 2-liter bottle chilled club soda

One 750-milliliter bottle brut sparkling wine

1. Pour the brandy, rum, claret, simply syrup, and vermouth into a large punch bowl. Stir slightly with a long spoon.

2. Add the ice round to the punch, or add enough cracked ice that the bowl is almost halfway full.

3. Add the orange slices and pineapple chunks, and slowly add the club soda. Stir again, but not frantically.

4. Gently add the sparkling wine and stir–but just once more. Serve in white wine glasses or punch cups.

From authentic raw bars, to rooftop dining, to the cozy confines of Grand Central’s favorite speakeasy, here are some GLR articles dedicated to fun and easy NYC spots to grab small bites and great drinks in cool places.

Raw Bar Hopping – 8 Great Oyster Bars in NYC

The most coveted oyster varieties from both North American coasts are appearing on the menus of Manhattan eateries in fresher, tastier and more robust selections than ever before. Here’s our list of top eateries in NYC shucking these delicious and ecologically powerful bivalves, and more.

A Higher End Happy Hour at These Popular NYC Restaurants

From $2 Osyters at The Standard East Village to Buratta Toast at Great Jones Distilling Co, You Can’t Go Wrong at These Top Spots

With the weather slowly cooling down, it’s about time for New Yorkers to enjoy the after-work hours, easily sipping libations with co-workers or friends. Sometimes, what you need is something exceptional, yet uncomplicated. Here are 5 of our favorite happy hours that will be sure to please:

The Campbell At Grand Central—Still A Treasure Sans The Apartment

If you travel through Grand Central Terminal every day and find yourself scratching your head right now, don’t worry—that was sort of the point. Touted as one of Grand Central’s top hidden secrets by Travel + Leisure, this opulent space has never needed trickery to retain its speakeasy status.

6 Easy Rooftop Bars in NYC

Like any good idea in New York City, once it’s out, everyone wants in. The proliferation of rooftop bars and restaurants in NYC has been a great thing, as many hotels, restaurants and building owners have realized just how valuable their rooftops really are.

The stunning 26,000-square-foot Nobu, the famed sushi empire from Michelin-starred chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa, is part of the Doha Four Seasons and floats on its own mini-island in the Qatar Gulf, rising like a coiled shell crossed with a starship from the future.

 

 

 

 

World-class Cuisine

The architectural masterpiece, designed by the NYC-based Rockwell Group, showcases the very best in fine dining, featuring Nobu’s world-famous cuisine matched by panoramic views of the alluring Arabian Gulf.

A practitioner of new-style Japanese cuisine, the Nobu menu includes innovative flavor pairings, such as yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño, lobster with wasabi pepper sauce, and perhaps Chef Matsuhisa’s most notorious recipe – the black cod miso.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nobu Doha does nothing but impress. A destination as a whole; the world’s largest Nobu is not just a restaurant, its the venue for an entire evening.

Offering a truly exclusive culinary experience, found nowhere else, the tri-level Nobu Doha boasts the largest of its kind in the world and is the only Nobu at a Four Seasons in the Middle East.

Sin City just got more decadently delicious. When in Las Vegas, make sure to hit the food jackpot by booking a table at the newest restaurants helmed by some of the most world’s most famous culinary stars.

DOMINIQUE ANSEL LAS VEGAS at CAESARS PALACE

Creative confectionaries, decadent desserts and, of course, the original Cronut have arrived at Dominique Ansel Las Vegas at Caesars Palace. James Beard Award-winning pastry chef Ansel has opened his bake shop and introduced his only-in-Vegas “Lucky 7” collection, Cookie Shots, Frozen S’mores, baked-to-order Mini Madeleines, the best-selling DKA (Dominique’s Kouign Amann), and the Cronut flavor of the month which never repeats. The first featured flavor is November’s Lucky Cherry Chambord and Caramelia Cronut filled with cherry Chambord jam and Valrhona Caramelia (caramelized milk chocolate) ganache. Treats are baked fresh daily, made with Beurre d’Isigny butter and Les Grands Moulins des Paris flour imported from France.

“I’m so thrilled to finally have a home here at Caesars Palace,” said Ansel. “For each of our shops, we strive to make each menu unique, and we hope our ‘Lucky 7’ pastry collection will bring some good fortune to everyone here. I can’t wait to share what we have planned for our future menu creations.”

The cafe-style bakery has seating for 20 people and is located next to Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill near the Caesars Palace Forum.

VETRI CUCINA at PALMS CASINO RESORT

The return of the beloved Vetri Cucina at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas is official, with the Palms Ivory Tower elevator now whisking guests to the 56^th floor for panoramic city views and award-winning Italian cuisine by Chef Marc Vetri, Philadelphia’s shining culinary star for the past 25 years.

“I’m very excited and honored to be open in this amazing space and location once again,” says owner/chef Marc Vetri. “This space is magical and one that can only be found here at Palms. We love creating memories for our guests and simply celebrating life.”

Vetri Cucina’s menu features many of the favorite dishes and wines that first brought it acclaim, as well as new menu items. Highlights include Foie Gras Pastrami with Toasted Brioche and Mostarda, Sweet Onion Crepe with White Truffle Fondue, Spinach Gnocchi with Ricotta Salata and Brown Butter, Smoked Baby Goat with Fresh Milled Polenta au Jus.

The new Palms Casino Resort is making history as the first resort in Las Vegas fully owned and operated by a Native American Tribe. The off-Strip property features two towers with 766 hotel rooms and suites, a variety of bars, restaurants, and live entertainment venues across a 95,000-square-foot reimagined casino.

BEDFORD BY MARTHA STEWART at PARIS LAS VEGAS

An authentic, immersive experience awaits at The Bedford by Martha Stewart, a replica of Martha’s 1925 farmhouse with culinary inspiration drawn from her legendary gardens and love of French cooking. Locally sourced ingredients round out a menu of Martha’s most celebrated dishes.

Developed by Martha and her team, The Bedford’s menu features flavorful dishes from fresh ingredients sourced as locally as possible. Transporting guests to an authentic dining experience at Martha Stewart’s famed country farmhouse, the restaurant boasts French-inspired cuisine and a combination of Martha’s favorite recipes for Oysters Rockefeller, Salmon en Croûte, Martha’s $30 Square Burger, a Whole Roast Chicken carved tableside, and, of course, a Martha-tini made with Zubrówka bison grass vodka.

RAMSAY’S KITCHEN BY GORDON RAMSAY at HARRAH’S LAS VEGAS

With so many restaurants in Sin City – including Gordon Ramsay’s Steak, Pub & Grill, Fish & Chips, Burger, and Hell’s Kitchen – the world’s favorite potty-mouthed Michelin-starred chef is the unofficial culinary king of Las Vegas. Well, make room in your tummy for Ramsay’s sixth Vegas restaurant: Harrah’s Las Vegas has just opened Ramsay’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay. Foodies can tuck into many of Gordon’s classic dishes such as Beef Wellington and his irresistible Sticky Toffee Pudding, plus “new dishes not yet served anywhere else,” says Ramsay.

The 240-seat restaurant has a seven-seat seafood counter, a private booth, and a private dining room. This marks the iconic chef’s second Ramsay’s Kitchen location – the original Ramsay’s Kitchen first opened in Boston’s vibrant Back Bay neighborhood and features an expansive menu including a raw bar, soups, salads, sandwiches, and signature mains.

“I’ve had an amazing 10 years with Caesars Entertainment, and I couldn’t be more excited to expand the partnership in Las Vegas,” said Gordon Ramsay. “I’m really looking forward to introducing Ramsay’s Kitchen to the millions of guests that visit Harrah’s each year.”

It’s no secret that Manhattan—and the thirsty masses who live in and travel to it day in and day out—love a good speakeasy. After all, potent drinks, exclusivity and Gatsby-esque charm will take you far in a city renowned for not sleeping and its endless waitlists.

Continue reading →

Fall is Butternut Squash Season

It’s often described as a “foodie Disneyland,” and inside you’ll find pizza, pasta, pastries, cheese, gelato, lavazza coffee, salami, seafood, meat and quality ingredients imported from Italy.

Continue reading →

Move over Maine lobsters. An even more revered, more sought after New England shellfish has stolen the culinary spotlight for a few fleeting months. Fresh-caught Nantucket Bay scallops – arguably the best and most coveted seafood in America – are now arriving at select restaurants and seafood shops throughout the country, and they won’t be here for long. Continue reading →

Don’t be fooled (and don’t, for gosh sakes, lose your head over it) by the fact that the first two items in this ingredient list are fresh products and not spirited liquids, or by the fact that the ingredient directly following them is a sweetening device. The hefty helping of gin in this drink does indeed give it quite a kick. Continue reading →

If dining at a Keller establishment is a must, two other options exist in Yountville. Ad Hoc is much less expensive than the Laundry but still gets stellar reviews for its four-course menu of ever-changing selections featuring local ingredients.

Keller opened Ad Hoc in 2006 as a casual dining venue to showcase the American comfort food of his childhood. The name Ad Hoc literally means “for this purpose,” and derives from Keller’s original purpose for the restaurant—to temporarily fill a space while his team developed a different restaurant concept. Yet from the start, Ad Hoc was loved so much by the locals and visitors to the wine country alike that it stuck around and is now one of the most popular restaurants in the valley.

The daily-changing four-course menu, featuring classic American dishes like fried chicken, pot roast and barbeque, is handwritten nightly on chalkboards throughout the restaurant. All courses are served family-style to increase both the conviviality of the Ad Hoc experience and to further recreate the casual comfort of home. The wine list also features many of the local vintners—many of whom can be seen frequently dining at the low key restaurant.

Ad Hoc
6476 Washington St.
Yountville, Calif. 94599
(707) 944-2487

If you’ve lived in California then you probably know how much the Pacific Ocean affects the air temperature. Coastal towns and cities can experience temperatures that are routinely 15-20 degrees cooler than locations just a few miles inland, and this juxtaposition is at its starkest in the summer. [Top Photo: Cathleen Evangelista]

Continue reading →

Speakeasies. They are, by definition, a little anachronistic. Although Prohibition ended long ago, drinking in secretive elegance will never really go out of style. Continue reading →

Looking to explore your favorite restaurant from a new vantage point, or maybe ease your way into a spot you’d like to try? Pull up a bar stool and experience all the atmosphere has to offer with a delicious drink in hand. Whether you’re ordering cocktails, snacks or going all out with a full meal, these beautiful bars are a great spot to take a seat and enjoy. Continue reading →

“Thanksgiving Wines” has become an annual favorite of mine to write. I enjoy the challenge of trying to find wines that pair well with a Thanksgiving meal—not as easy of a task as one might think.

I definitely favor white wines over red wines for this once-a-year meal, but the type of white wine you choose is key. The amount of oak is always something I wrestle with. On the one hand, the wine needs to be “big” enough to stand up to the richer aspects of the meal. Dark meat turkey, gravy and even a green bean caserole all call for bigger style whites. This usually means white wines with ample oak that have gone through some malolactic fermentation. As such, California Chardonnays can be a wonderful pairing for this meal, however I lean towards the less oaky ones with ample acidity to cut through the fattiness of the meal. For 2022, I have two Chardonnays listed (both from California).

Versatility and minerality are equally if not more important. Thanksgiving is a motley group of foods with a lot of different dishes serving as supporting cast to the main actor, turkey with gravy. This means you need a wine that can go with myriad flavors (sweet, salty, savory), with plenty of minerality and acidity to pair with the fattier apsects of the meal.

Alas, here are my 2022 “Thanksgiving Wines” selections, with a variety of price points (ordered by least – most expensive) from a variety of regions.

Chapoutier ‘Bila-Haut’ Cotes du Roussillon Blanc 2020 (SRP $15)

A blend of Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Macabeu, Vermentino and Marsanne, this Cotes du Roussillon Blanc from world-class Rhone Valley producer M. Chapoutier, is round and rich, yet balanced with good minerality, ample acidity and tons of bright flavors. Alluring white peach, quince and lemon zest give way to saline and limestone notes on the finish.

A versatile wine for food pairing, you can serve this with your Thanksgiving meal or with hors d’oeuvres before. With an average SRP of $15 (even lower at some discount stores) this is also a wine you should consider buying a case of for Thanksgiving and the Holiday season.

 2021 Garofoli Supèra Verdicchio Di Matelica DOC (SRP $16)

Dating back to 1871, Garofoli is the oldest family-owned winery in the Marche region of Italy. While Garofoli may be an old winery, the Supèra is relatively new and the winery’s first foray into Verdicchio di Matelica.

The grapes for this Verdicchio are from the higher elevation Matelica Valley where the Garofoli family is working with a young and innovative grape grower. Referred to as a “mountain wine” by Garofoli, this Verdicchio teams bright and tangy notes of lemon peel and tangerine with mellower notes of pine nuts and bread pudding.

 2021 La Valentina Pecorino Colline Pescaresi IGT (SRP $18)

Established in 1990, La Valentina is a good example of the modern winemaking renaissance happening in Abruzzo, a region long undervalued for its quality wine production. A true believer in sustainability, the winery avoids the use of artificial or chemical products and estate vineyards are farmed organically (or in transition towards organic).

The Pecorino grape thrives in the rocky slopes and maritime climate of Abruzzo—the areas clay, limestone, and gravel soils and microclimates a great mix for a grape that is known for being difficult. but more than worth the effort.

The light hue of this wine (very pale yellow) is misleading. Citrus, stone fruits, minerals and acidity literally explode out of the glass, with very little oak presence—which I love. Like the ‘Bila-Haut,’ this is a versatile wine that will match with your smorgasbord of Thanksgiving spoils, but can also be served as a cocktail wine beforehand.

2020 Trivento Golden Reserve Malbec (SRP $20)

I have always liked Malbec as a plush, soft tannin, mellow alternative to bigger Bordeaux varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon. However, I have always felt there was a ceiling to its quality. That is before I met Germán di Cesare, chief winemaker at Bodega Trivento—one of Argentina’s top Malbec producers, in the foothills of the Andes Mountains. Both of the reserve Malbecs I tried were extrememly approachable, complex and paired beautifully with our lunch at mid-town Manhattan’s L’ Amico restaurant.

Their Eolo Malbec is the best Malbec I have ever tried, but at $100 it is very expensive for a Malbec—especially for Americans who typically think of Malbec as a relative value. At $20 though, their “Golden Reserve” is VERY good and a great value. This wine reminds me of a Napa Valley Boardeaux-style blend, with dark red fruits, anise, tobacco and spice box wafting out of the glass. This wine is very structured for a Malbec, with soft, yet prevalent tannins and complex flavors shaping it the whole way through.

2020 Inama “Carbonare” Soave DOC Classico (SRP $30)

Inama’s vineyards cover 70 acres throughout Soave Classico, mainly on and around the dormant Monte Foscarino volcano.

The region’s soil owes its characteristic to a stream of water that flows underground in the region. According to Inama, “the basalt, which characterizes the ground in most of the Soave Classico area, has great chromatic complexity…the strong character of the vineyard is evident in the grapes.”

Aromas of citrus and fresh cut flowers greet you with this Soave, followed by effervescent acidity, strong minerality and a little bit of limestone salinity on the finish—which I love! This Soave can easily stand up to your turkey and gravy while also complimenting your sides, from sweet potatoes to green bean casserole.

2021 Frank Family Carneros Chardonnay (SRP $40)

I’ve written about Frank Family wines before and for good reason—they are very good, VERY consistent and generally available Napa Valley wines at reasonable prices.

The grapes for this wine were sourced from some very reputable vineyards—primarily their estate Lewis Vineyard as well as neighboring Beckstoffer Vineyards (Napa-Carneros) and Sangiacomo Vineyards (Sonoma-Carneros).

This wine has a rich bouquet of baking spices, apple pie and Meyer lemon upfront. While only seeing partial malolactic fermentation, this prototypical Carneros chardonnay is full bodied, with pineapple, peach, and brioche bread notes upfront. Plenty of bright acidity and subtle hints of oak are revealed on the long finish. Frank Family’s “Lewis Vineyard” Chardonnay is also worth seeking out if you can find it and don’t mind the higher price point. Pineapple, pear, tangerine and vanilla custard notes are shaped by impeccable structure, ample acidity and a super long finish.  This is one of the better California Chardonnays I have tried but you might need to order it directly from the winery.

 Fiddlehead “Oldsville” Willamette Valley Pinot Noir (SRP $54)

Founded in 1989 by winemaker Kathy Joseph, Fiddlehead Cellars stands out as one of California’s pioneering producers dedicated to terror-driven and age-worthy wines tied to great vineyard sites. Running the winery 30-plus years, Kathy is one of Santa Barbara County’s first leading female winemakers to own both her own winery and vineyard, with a hands-on role in the farming, winemaking, and other aspects of the business.

While Fiddlehead is famous for their Santa Barbra County wines, they have also been producing outstanding Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley for nearly 30 years. Their Oldsville Pinot Noir is indicative of Kathy’s attention to making wines that are an expression of their vineyard sites—in this case terrior driven, Burgundian-style Willamette Valley Pinot Noir.

This classic Willamette Valley Pinot is packed full of blueberries and pomegranates with undercurrents of strawberries and lavender and complimented by earth, leather and smoked meat notes. The wine finishes with tobacco, spice box and just a hint of vanilla oak—with great structure and a long, lingering finish. This Pinot Noir is a perfect match for lamb chops but will also work well with your Thanksgiving feast.

Lynmar 2018 Quail Hill Vineyard Chardonnay (SRP $63)

At the heart of Lynmar Estate is its original site, the 47-acre Quail Hill Vineyard, one of the foremost vineyard sites within the Russian River Valley. Planted in 1974, proprietor Lynn Fritz acquired the site in 1980 as a rural retreat from running an international corporation in San Francisco. Upon tasting some of the original wines sourced from Quail Hill, made by Merry Edwards at Matanzas Creek and Tony Soter at Étude, Lynn began to fully understand the site’s rare qualities. Today it remains one of the top vineyards in Russian River for world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

This wine is quintessential, top-tier, Russian River Chardonnay. Tropical and citrus fruits give way to peach, pear and crème brulee, with bright acidity and limestone minerality on the finish.

If you’re spending a getaway on the cliffs of Big Sur, watching the sunset as you enjoy the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, chances are you’re probably thinking you’ve done pretty well for yourself. And if, in the back of your mind, you’re thinking that nothing could be better than this, we’d have to tell you—you’re wrong. Continue reading →

With the weather slowly cooling down, it’s about time for New Yorkers to enjoy the after-work hours, easily sipping libations with co-workers or friends. Sometimes, what you need is something exceptional, yet uncomplicated. Here are 5 of our favorite happy hours that will be sure to please:

ALDAMA

Mexican hot spot Aldama is the perfect place to sip perfectly crafted cocktails, made under partner and beverage director Christopher Reyes (formerly of Employees Only and Cosme).  Aldama is offering happy hour every day of the week from 5 pm to 7 pm, with refreshing, $8 cocktail creations like the Citrus Fizz and the staple Margarita, and snacks like tacos, guacamole, and ceviche tostada available for $10.

BUBBY’S

A Tribeca staple for over 30 years, Bubby’s is well-known for its family-friendly brunch, but a happy hour at Bubby’s shouldn’t be missed. Grab a seat at the bar, and choose from a selection of wine, beer, or classic cocktails (Margarita, Negroni, Pickled Martini, Rye Manhattan) available for $10, and hearty snacks include nachos, mac and cheese balls, chicken wings, and deviled eggs for only $7.

THE STANDARD EAST VILLAGE 

KATANA KITTEN 

Great Jones Distilling Co.

You will want to check out Great Jones Distilling Co.’s very own happy hour, dubbed “Prohibition Hour” where all cocktails (like the Hangar One NY Vodka Fruit Cobbler) and light bites, such as local burrata toast, smoked bacon croquettes, and BBQ chicken wings are $11 from Tuesday-Friday from 4-7 pm.

Founded in Monterey, Mexico in 1895 Topo Chico’s uber-bubbly mineral water is now a world-wide brand. The story of this seemingly innocuous sparkling water that was born in Mexico, raised in Texas and is now flourishing on multiple continents—thanks in part to its acquisition by Coca Cola in 2017—dates back over 125 years.

History of production and relationship with Coca-Cola

Speaking of its parent company Coca Cola, Topo Chico and Coca Cola have a relationship that dates back about 100 years. In fact, long before Coke acquired Topo Chico, Topo Chico actually acquired the licensing rights to bottle Coke in Mexico, roughly 100 years ago. Needless to say, they have been working with Coke for many years so it’s not a big surprise that Coke decided to acquire them.

When Topo Chico was founded in 1895, it sourced and bottled the water from a spring near a small mole-shaped hill that it was named after. “Topo” means “mole” in Spanish and “chico” means “small.” 127 years later, it still sources water from the very same “Cerro del Topo Chico” spring. 

The minerals matter

Topo Chico is not just ordinary sparkling water, like seltzer or club soda. It is actual mineral water, containing naturally occurring minerals and electrolytes like Sodium, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium and Manganese. For comparison sake, “La Croix” sparkling water (another popular brand) is simply seltzer and does not contain any minerals. So what’s so special about these minerals? Sodium is needed for blood regulation (absence can cause serious impairment of bodily functions), regulates bodily fluids and transmits electrical impulses in the body; Calcium is an important nutrient and major component for bones and teeth; Magnesium aids in digestion, helps muscles recover and promotes a sense of calm; Potassium provides fuel for the heart and promotes kidney and nervous system function; Manganese is an antioxidant that benefits your bones and increases collagen production (healthy looking skin).

I’m not saying drinking Topo Chico everyday will solve any of your health problems but it certainly won’t hurt and the extra mineral intake could have some positive effects—if nothing else the electrolyte-laiden water will help keep you hydrated.

It now comes in 3 flavors but you may like the original

In addition to their original unflavored version, TC also comes in three litely flavored mineral waters; Twist of Lime, Twist of Grapefruit and Twist of Tangerine—all zero calorie. 

While Topo Chico’s flavored versions are quite popular, their original unflavored water tastes quite good too. The naturally occuring carbonation, while plenty effervescent (more on this in a sec), has a softer mouthfeel than other sparkling waters, as if the bubbles are smaller but greater in quantity, leading to a texture that is mellow and inviting. Also, despite the minerals, TC also has a very mild, neutral aftertaste, if any at all—something I would imagine most people want in a sparkling water. I know I do. Less is more when it comes to a water’s taste.

It all about the bubbles

While less may be more on the aftertaste, more is more when it comes to carbonation. Yes, Topo Chico’s secret weapon—you guessed it—is in its bubbles. Simply put, the naturally occering carbonation in Topo Chico is more explosive and lasts longer than other brand I have tried. No wonder it is a cult-favorite for consumers and bartenders alike who like a vibrant Vodka Soda or Tom Collins with ferocious fizz that doesn’t go flat.

Leave an open bottle of TC out overnight and the next day it will taste like you just opened it. And while all mineral waters naturally contain sodium—which can be off-putting to some people—the sodium level in TC is fairly low and provides a thirst-busting sensation (Gatorade’s secret thirst busting recipe has ample sodium for a reason).

What is Ranch Water?

You cannot make an authentic Ranch Water cocktail without Topo Chico. What is a Ranch Water you ask. It’s simply a tequila and soda with lime—a popular drink these days due to its low calorie, low hangover appeal. It is only a Ranch Water though if you use Topo Chico. It is also the unofficial cocktail of Texas—which is the unofficial home-away-from-home of Topo Chico. Yes, Texans love their Topo Chico and likely have played a big part in TC’s meteroic rise in popularity over the past decade.

Photo Courtesy: Valerie’s Kitchen

In March of 2021 Topo Chico released a lineup of Hard Seltzers onto the market—hardly a surprise in today’s hard seltzer crazed world. The flavors include: Tangy Lemon Lime, Exotic Pineapple, Strawberry Guava and Tropical Mango. Almost a year later TC released a new lineup of hard seltzer “Margaritas” (with salt, lime and tequila flavors) in four tropical flavors including Signature Margarita, Tropical Pineapple, Strawberry Hibiscus, and Prickly Pear. Seperately, during the same launch campaign, TC released their highly anticipated “Ranch Water” Hard Seltzer. Inspired by the taste of the popular cocktail recipe made famous by Texas bartenders, Topo Chico Ranch Water Hard Seltzer features real lime juice and a refreshing, crisp taste.

While the space inside this East Village eatery may be small, Upstate offers one of the largest assortments of east and west coast oysters available in NYC. From the Long Island Sound to the Puget Sound, Upstate’s friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to guide you through their vast medley of shelled delicacies. Whether you prefer briny, coppery, milky, or floral – or haven’t the faintest idea what any of that means – they’ll help you mix and match over 20 oyster varieties with their similarly impressive selection of craft beers. Come during Happy Hour, and $12 will get you a pint and six oysters. And if that’s not enough to entice you, Shane Covey, Upstate’s genial and gracious owner, will swing by at the end of your meal and give you a piece of whiskey cake made by his wife.

95 1st Ave
New York, NY 10003

A Higher End Happy Hour at These Popular NYC Restaurants

From $2 Osyters at The Standard East Village to Buratta Toast at Great Jones Distilling Co, You Can’t Go Wrong at These Top Spots

With the weather slowly cooling down, it’s about time for New Yorkers to enjoy the after-work hours, easily sipping libations with co-workers or friends. Sometimes, what you need is something exceptional, yet uncomplicated. Here are 5 of our favorite happy hours that will be sure to please:

The Campbell At Grand Central—Still A Treasure Sans The Apartment

If you travel through Grand Central Terminal every day and find yourself scratching your head right now, don’t worry—that was sort of the point. Touted as one of Grand Central’s top hidden secrets by Travel + Leisure, this opulent space has never needed trickery to retain its speakeasy status.

Raw Bar Hopping – 8 Great Oyster Bars in NYC

The most coveted oyster varieties from both North American coasts are appearing on the menus of Manhattan eateries in fresher, tastier and more robust selections than ever before. Here’s our list of top eateries in NYC shucking these delicious and ecologically powerful bivalves, and more.

6 Easy Rooftop Bars in NYC

Like any good idea in New York City, once it’s out, everyone wants in. The proliferation of rooftop bars and restaurants in NYC has been a great thing, as many hotels, restaurants and building owners have realized just how valuable their rooftops really are.

A resurgence of the “classics” continues to percolate through US cocktail lounges and I am fully onboard with this trend. Continue reading →

Rooftop Bars have been all the rage of late in big cities, from New York to L.A. and everywhere in between. And while this trend shows no sign of stopping, with more and more watering holes opening up atop dormant rooftops, most are suited for drinks and appetizers and are not true outdoor dining destinations. Continue reading →

Lobster and bread are two of our favorite foods on their own. But what happens when you put them together, like the restaurant Perry’s of Milford, Connecticut did for the first time in 1929? You get an even tastier treat—the lobster sandwich (aka lobster roll). Continue reading →

Classic, old fashioned cocktails are back in vogue. And their simplicity is what makes them so timeless—and good. Don’t overthink your mixology psychology this summer. Impress your guests with these easy to make, refreshing, summer classics.

Continue reading →