Hollen & Jen | Shireen's Favorite Things

Shireen’s Spotlight: Louie Bossi’s Ristorante Bar Pizzeria

What:

An early Sunday evening dinner in the courtyard garden of Louie Bossi on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale.

Why:

The energy inside “Louie Bossi” is infectious, the crowd vibrant and the food fantastic. The sprawling dining area, which is flanked by an open-air kitchen, gives way to a warmly-lit bar, but it’s what’s in back of the restaurant that’s truly special…

With shabby/chic decor, iron rod trimmings and ivy-drenched walls, the covered patio garden has the charm of an Italian piazza with a hint of South Florida flair. That’s where I decided to enjoy my Spotlight experience.

I started with three adult beverages: Pineapple Martini, Aperol Spritz and Bossi Beer.

The martini started sweet (with infused pineapple vodka,) but ended spicy, thanks to well-placed oil chili drops. The spritzer (said in my best Long Island accent) was smooth and refreshing with Prosecco, club soda and Aperol (which is a sweet Italian aperitif.) I also tried a glass of the light and fruity Birra Di Bossi (a basil-orange pilsner.) Hmmm…I love me a good light beer and live for a great martini, but it’s the spritzer I was gaga for — nothing like some icy goodness on a hot summer day.

Warm homemade bread, smelling divine, arrived at the table. It was so soft and good-looking, I think I was actually flirting with it. 😗

Almost everything at “Louie Bossi” is made from scratch; you can totally tell by how each delicious carb melts in your mouth (to think this started as a fashion blog!) There’s nothing like homemade bread and pasta — sorry Prada, you got nada… on this.

As of late, foodies in South Florida can’t get enough of the octopus trend and doing Spotlight means I’ve had it “every which way but loose.” That being said, “Louie Bossi’s” Spanish version, served with fingerling potatoes and cherry tomatoes, is as good as it gets. It’s grilled to perfection, with hints of wood-burning yumminess. I’m told it’s a customer favorite and I can see why.

Talk about impressive: our curated Charcuterie Board was off the charts. Not only was it awe-inspiring to look at, but mixing and matching the cheese, meats and other goodies was a taste bud awakening.

Here’s a list of some of our samplings: three different kinds of salami, Di Parma, Burrata, Pecorino, Robiola, Fontina Vale D’ Astota, figs, almonds, bread sticks and a mix of pickled red peppers, paprika peppers and corn flakes.

I tried two main entrees — the tender and flaky Grilled Bronzino (made with with parsley, chilies and capers.) It came with a side of mind-blowing cauliflower. As a writer, I’ve never used “mind-blowing” and “cauliflower” in the same sentence, but I’m not even joking. It’s crazy good, mixed in some secret pesto sauce.

If you prefer something meatier, try the Ribeye. I got the 24 ounce “sliced for two” (cooked medium.) It came with a side of Cacio E Pepe. Oh, pasta Gods, why do you do this to me? Of course, if you know me, steak and spaghetti are my two favorite foods on earth. So, I was pretty much in hog heaven. I’d be lying if I didn’t go on and on about the pasta. Tossed with pecorino Romano and cracked pepper, it’s love in a bowl. Simple and delicious (served in a heated dish.)

I started screaming: “It’s my birthday! It’s my birthday!” when dessert showed up. Technically, it’s not until next month, but with its celebratory nature, I couldn’t help myself. LOL. 😍

The gigantic plate was jammed-packed with Italian classics: Cannoli with pistachio, Tiramisu, Gelato, Budino Cioccolata (which is like custard or pudding,) cookies and, last but not least, cheesecake with a sparkler to boot. Holy sweets, Batman! The cheesecake was another level of fabulousness. I washed it all down with a Fumoso (a smoky Limoncello made with dry ice.)

When you’re a foodie, falling for “Louie Bossi” is pretty easy: it’s got it all. What I like most is the QUALITY. It’s first class and when you work hard for your money, it feels good spending it on something that’s WORTH IT and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things. Cheers!

When:

Monday-Thursday 11:30am-1am
Friday & Saturday 11:30am-2pm
Sunday 10am-1am

Where:

Louie Bossi
1032 E Las Olas Blvd.
Fort Lauderdale 33301

Be Social:
FB: Louie Bossi’s Ristorante Bar Pizzeria
IG: @louiebossi
Twitter: @LouieBossi

The only time to eat diet food is while you’re waiting for the steak to cook.Julia Child

James Woodley Photography
Producer/Styling: Jackie Kay
Body Suit: Lilac & Lilies Boutique, Skirt: Hollen & Jen Vintage,
Necklace: BCGB South Beach, Purse: Koko & Palenki Aventura
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Shabby/chic” Auerbach

Friday, July 28, 2017 Shireen's Spotlight BCBG, Cocktails, Fort Lauderdale, Hollen & Jen, James Woodley Photography, Koko & Palenki, Lilac & Lilies Boutique, Louie Bossi's

The Blossoming

flower-08

The Blossoming

What:

The Flower Bar inside Field of Flowers at 5101 S. University Drive, Davie, Florida 33328

Why:

I always feel a lot of pressure when it comes to my Valentine’s Day blog. I look for the gut-wrenching love story, one that rips the heart out, gives the spirit a healthy dose of self-reflection and leaves me (and hopefully you,) better for it. The thing is…

This year I got nothing. Zip. Zilch. Nada. Well, at least in the drama department. That’s not such a bad thing, though. If you’re a regular blog reader, you know exactly what I’m talking about. All of the bad stuff (and believe you me, it was bad) has slowly dissipated from my life. My health struggles, the ex-husband and the loss of Sydney.

I’d like to say I’m better for it (and perhaps part of me is,) but the truth is, I’m just different. I’ve learned so many things about myself over the last few years, I wanted to share what I’ve found to be the perfect kind of love (it being almost Valentine’s Day and all). Mind you…

I’d usually go off and buy an expensive pair of shoes, gorge myself with some extravagant dinner, maybe even buy myself a designer purse and then find solace in the fact I could provide it for myself. I mean, who needs a man? Right? Well, not exactly.

Love comes in all shapes and sizes (and yes, sometimes it happens to be a man or a woman,) but for me, the most powerful and perfect kind of love is self love. I know, I know, it sounds so cliche’. Love yourself and love will find you, but really, it’s not that easy.

It’s more like, if you love yourself, you need less of all that BS society fills your head with. If I take time to care for myself — mentally, physically and emotionally — I’m able to provide MYSELF with stability, fulfillment and the mothering that makes me feel, well, LOVED.

I used to think some perfect man or relationship could solve it all; make me whole, take me away, rescue me. I spent years thinking if I could only find “the one” my life would be perfect and that deep unrest, yearning and longing I’ve known for years would magically disappear, but instead — I came to realize that the love I truly needed and longed for – was and has always been — inside of myself.

“The Blossoming” is about learning how to love yourself and figuring out what that means. Of course, we’re all different and we all have different needs, but that’s part of what makes life and living it so incredibly rare and special.

A few years ago, I wrote a blog called “Flower Power” about learning to reinvent myself after being diagnosed with a major illness. Yup, I took up flower arranging as a hobby, but it was so much more than that. It was an awakening of sorts. Although it was such a simple thing (piecing together pretty flowers), it brought me a lot of happiness and I’d even go so far as saying it brought me solace.

I think it was because it was the first time I actively tried loving myself. I gave myself permission to enjoy my life and do something that truly made me happy. It wasn’t my “aha” moment, per se, but I think that’s where it began.

As I started to heal from my sickness, flower arranging became less of a priority. I’d tinker with a bouquet from Publix every now and then or even rearrange flowers from Whole Foods, but nothing like before. The lesson, however, has always stayed with me.

That’s why when I heard about the #MyFlowerBar concept, I was immediately smitten. Inside Field of Flowers in Davie they’ve built this amazing room. It looks like something out of a Nancy Meyers movie: light, airy and serene. It’s dubbed…

“The Flower Bar” and provides you with everything you need to get lost in an afternoon of sheer pleasure: a sassy apron, petite pruning shears and pretty flowers to make your own arrangement. They serve wine and even light yummy scented candles.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to be on your own; bring a friend, have a party, celebrate a bridal shower all while taking a class. Better yet, follow one of their many flower recipes (called the Renoir, Klimt, Van Gogh, just to name a few.) You can get all the info (a.k.a the recipe) on one of their nifty tablets.

After you’re done arranging, take a photo on their social media camera, post it and take your bouquet home in its frilly recipe box. Whether you’re gifting your bouquet or keeping it for yourself, it’s sure to add a special energy to any room. In the meantime, that “loving yourself” thing…

It’s hard freaking work. At least it has been for me.. especially as I’ve aged, changed, evolved and grown. Sometimes, things become clearer as I become more seasoned in life, while others become more of a mystery. My mom always says to me: “The older I get, the less I know.” Now, I get it.

I guess the important thing is to accept it all. The good, the bad, the beautiful and yes, even the ugly. I definitely don’t have it all figured out (yet) but I do know “The Blossoming” is the kind of love that’s given me a sense of self-acceptance and that’s the kind of romance I’ve always longed for. Happy Valentine’s Day! xo

When:

Open 7 days a week! Monday-Saturday 8:30am-7pm, Sunday 10am-5pm.

Where:

The Flower Bar is inside Field of Flowers in Davie. It’s a straight shot if you’re coming from Miami and you hit the turnpike. It’s in a busy little shopping plaza with plenty of parking. Also, if you’re not up for arranging, FOF has an open flower market that’s awe-inspiring. Just make sure to stop and smell the roses (and all the other flowers, too).

www.fieldofflowers.com
Twitter: @FieldoFlowers
Instagram: @fl_fieldofflowers
Facebook: Field of Flowers

Wardrobe provided by in order of appearance (IG) @hollenandjen @HotMiamiStyles @tikiboutique

Love is the flower of life, and blossoms unexpectedly and without law, and must be plucked where it is found, and enjoyed for the brief hour of its duration.D.H. Lawrence

Photographer & Videographer: James Woodley
Styling: Jackie Kay & Shireen Sandoval
Hair, MUA: Odett Hernandez
Editor: Matthew Auerbach

Wednesday, February 10, 2016 Shireen's Favorite Things Field of Flowers, Flower Bar, Hollen & Jen, Hot Miami Styles, James Woodley Photography, Tiki Boutique

Animal Instincts with Jungle Island

What:

Jungle Island, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, Florida 33132

Why:

I’m obsessed with three things in life: shoes, vodka and flamingos (not necessarily in that order. ) So imagine my delight when I got wind of Jungle Island’s new brainchild: yummy hamburgers and my favorite fabulous pink, feathery friends. The food and flamingo shenanigans are all about highlighting the parks new cafe, Island Burger. The gist: eat food and watch flamingos.

With one of my favorite Deco Drive producers, I hightailed it over to Island Burger (which is right in front of Jungle Island) last week to enjoy an incredibly delicious Cuban Burger (there are 12 mouth-watering beef patties to choose from,) all whilst watching pink flamingos saunter about the park’s lush greenery.

It was nothing short of magical; with beautiful So-Flo winter temperatures, great food and a chance to escape a dark television studio while eating with a good friend. The entire situation gave me a major moment of jungle love (“oh-we oh-we-oh.”) My stop at the ever-so-famous park didn’t end there, though; the park offered me a tour of its featured attractions, allowing me to pair-up my favorite fall fashions with some of its exotic animals.

The flamingos were a no-brainer, fashionably speaking. We wanted to showcase the whimsical side of Florida fashion, which is always on display year around because of our sub tropical temps. Dominique’s Boutique hooked us up with everything pink! Fluffy, frilly and beyond girly was the goal. It’s not everyday a fashionista gets to hang out with her favorite feathery friends. The birds were delicate, dashing and oh-so dainty. They scare easily, so we had to be extra diligent when it came to movement while shooting pictures. The slower, the better. The result: everyone was pretty in pink.

Up next: my new best friend, Manny, the fluffy and friendly Lemur (who hails from Madagascar.) Manny’s rich and beautiful deep dark colors allowed us to really get into the textures of fall. A chic animal print dress, paired with strong accessories and a crocheted beanie cap helped set the mood. Honestly, though, Manny stole the show without even trying. I mean, look at those eyes! Our ode to the jungle outfit was also head-to-toe Dominique Boutique.

Birds of a feather flock together (at least at Jungle Island, they do!) I’ve always loved the beautiful and vivacious colors of tropical birds. Showcasing their vibrancy was easy in a bright green jumper from Hollen & Jen’s Vintage Showroom. It’s actually a piece I collected some time ago, but it’s hard to wear green on television due to the green screen, so instead, I waited for the perfect fashion moment to debut the vintage onesie and well, this seemed to be it. Added bonus: it has sleeves and having a parrot perched on your shoulders is a better experience with a little material under its talons.

Jungle Island is one of my favorite things because it’s the kind of place where you can lose yourself in the beauty of nature; recharging the mind, body and spirit. Besides, sometimes a fashionista just needs a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city and it doesn’t get much better than a “Cheeseburger in Paradise.”

Where:

The park is located in the heart of the Magic City; just off the MacArthur Causeway (I-395) in between Downtown Miami and South Beach. Island Burger is conveniently placed at the front of Jungle Island and accessible without entering the park. There’s plenty of parking for both venues; with a roomy garage that validates your ticket if you’re just breezing through to pick-up lunch.

When:

Jungle Island is open 365 days a year! Usual hours are Monday-Sunday 10am-5pm.
Island Burger is open Monday-Friday 11am-3pm & Saturday-Sunday 11am-5pm.

She is pure Alice in Wonderland and her appearance and demeanor are a nicely judged mix of the Red Queen and a Flamingo.Truman Capote

For ticket information check-out www.JungleIsland.com
Twitter, IG & FB: @jungleisland

Wardrobe & accessories provided by Dominique Boutique
www.DominiqueCoralGables.com

Green Jumper courtesy of www.hollenandjenshowroom.com

Editor: Matthew Auerbach
Photographer: James Woodley
Stylist/Field Producer: Jackie Kay
Hair/MUA: Tabitha Rey

Wednesday, October 28, 2015 Shireen's Favorite Things Dominique Boutique, Dominique Coral Gables, Hollen & Jen, James Woodley Photography, Jungle Island

Shireen’s Spotlight: Bistro Cassis

Shireen's Spotlight: Bistro Cassis

What:

Bistro Cassis, 118 Buena Vista Boulevard, Miami, Florida 33137

Why:

I’ll never forget my first trip to Paris. I fell in love with absolutely everything: the elegant charm of the city, the spectacular historic architecture and the wealth of lively street cafes that seemed to be everywhere, serving fab French food and glasses upon glasses of hearty red wine. Finding that same kind of amazing ambiance in Miami hasn’t always been easy for me, but thanks to “Bistro Cassis,” it’s now possible.

From the moment I hit the front door, the lively French cafe transported me back to “the City of Lights.” With its tiled floors, comfy red booths and incredibly knowledgeable wait staff, I was defintely “se sentir heureux” (feeling happy.) The night started out as a celebration of sorts, with three unique cocktails: the “Isabelle” (made with vodka, cantaloupe, flower cordial and lavender,) the “Emerald Club” (made with gin, mint, green tea syrup, club soda, lime oils) and the “Just Ryte” (with rye whiskey, sage, lemon, bitters and ginger beer.)

I loved the smoothness of the “Isabelle,” the fashionable green brightness of the “Emerald Club” and the unique blending of the “Just Ryte.” Choosing my appetizers was tough, but I went with the suggested “Escargots Persille” (baked snails, garlic herb butter,) Steak Tartare (traditional chopped beef) and the “Mussels Mariniere” (white wine, fresh herbs.) The escargot were buttery and baked to perfection. The tartare (my fave) had just the right blend of spices and the mussels were tender, succulent and left me soaking my bread in its leftover broth and devouring each drenched bite.

Dinner was the best kind of French meal you could ask for: “Steak Frites” (New York strip steak, maitre d’hotel butter, French fries) with a side of mushroom risotto and a glass of “Estancia Merlot” (from Central Coast, California.) The steak was cooked to perfection, the fries were light and crispy and the risotto was exempliare! Dessert was a flaming good time with the “Crepes Suzette” (which are French pancakes with Grand Marnier sauce and vanilla bean ice cream.) I loved the vibe, food and company of this cafe. Who needs Paris when you have Bistro Cassis and thats why it’s one of my favorite things.

Where:

The bistro is snuggled into Midtown Miami (the city’s urban district) and is the perfect destination to enjoy a day of shopping and an evening of dining. Street parking can be tough in this busy area, but there are plenty of garages or why not cab/Uber it and walk to Bistro Cassis like a true Parisian pedestrian.

When:

Open 7 days a week !
Monday through Saturday 11:30am-11:00pm
Sunday Brunch 11:00am-5:00pm, Dinner 5:00pm-11:00pm

Life is an onion and one cries while peeling it.French Proverb

Website: www.cassismiami.com
Twitter: @CassisMiami
Instagram: @Bistro_Cassis_Miami
Facebook: Bistro Cassis Miami French Restaurant

Editor: Matthew Auerbach
Photographer: James Woodley
Writer: Shireen Sandoval
Producer: Jessie Rosario

A special thank you to Brustman Carrino Public Relations

Wardrobe by Hollen & Jen Vintage Showroom
www.hollenandjenshoroom.com
Twitter: @HollenandJen
Instagram: @hollenandjen
Facebook: Hollen & Jen Showroom

Friday, June 26, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight Bistro Cassis, Cocktails, French, French Bistro, Hollen & Jen, James Woodley Photography, Restaurant

Shireen’s Weekend: Kid Idol

I had an amazing weekend filled with such excitement and inspiration, I wanted to share it in lieu of my usual “Shireen’s Top 3.” In honor of the American Idol finale (which is being held this Tuesday and Wednesday on WSVN,) I spent Saturday afternoon at Gulfstream Park judging #KidIdol (sponsored by Joe Dimaggio Children’s Hospital) alongside Channel 7 Meteorologist, Karlene Chavis and Shelby Rushin a.k.a the Midday Chic on 99 Jamz.

The event showcased seven of South Florida’s brightest young stars who shared their voices and great personalities, in hopes of winning a free trip to Los Angeles, California, to watch the Idol finale live in person! By the way, I’m totally jealous and wish I could go along for the ride, as I’ve been to the singing extravaganza a handful of times and it does NOT disappoint.

The contestants sang songs from artists like Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Adele and Sam Smith. At first, I thought it would be a fun afternoon of complimenting kids, but boy, was I wrong. These youngsters were so gifted, interesting and talented, I could barely contain my enthusiasm. What a gift it is to be able to sing and share it with the world! Or at least friends, family and patrons of the shopping center. Hey, everyone has to start somewhere.

As each youngster performed, I couldn’t help but be swept away by the beauty of youth. Not so much aesthetically speaking, although that’s always nice, too; but mainly the sheer hope, bewilderment and joy that a young spirit brings. I wasn’t just impressed by their poise, but also by their promising futures. Unfortunately, at the end of the contest, only one could come out on top, although, really, they’re all winners to me. The cute and undeniably sassy Joanna Martinez, who sang “I’m On The Edge of Glory” by Lady Gaga, took home the #KidIdol trophy. Congrats to everyone who participated and keep on singing and sharing your talents!

For the latest and greatest on all things Idol check-out www.WSVN.com or www.AmericanIdol.com. (Scroll down to my second event.)

Shireen’s Weekend: One Split Second

On a hot and steamy Saturday night, the movers and shakers of the Magic City gathered in downtown Miami at the Grand Central to celebrate #OneSplitSecond, an event benefiting the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation. I was honored to host the fun, high-spirited gathering alongside Alan T. Brown and Alan Roth to raise money to find a cure for spinal cord injuries,

This event is very near and dear to my heart, as I suffered a spinal cord injury four years ago. Not in the traditional sense; mine was a virus that devoured my body (more specifically, my spine.) Because of the courage and forethought of Mr. Reeve, I was able to receive a life-saving drug called Intravenous Immunoglobulin. I eventually recovered and healed. The fight continues, though, to help educate, rehabilitate and cure those who are not as lucky as myself.

Along with an art auction, raffle tickets, great food and drinks, “Nahko and Medicine For The People” performed. Being around so many people who care and have the same charitable interests isn’t just powerful, it can be life-changing, as well. I’m always so honored to be included among this generous and loving group of people. For more information on how you can help, please visitwww.christopherreeve.org.

“Raise your words, not your voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.” – Rumi

Editor: Matthew Auerbach
Writer: Shireen Sandoval
Photographer: James Woodley

Kid Idol wardrobe: Hollen & Jen Vintage Showroom
One Split Second wardrobe: Kore Boutique

Twitter: @ShireenSandoval
IG: @ShireenSandoval
ssandoval@wsvn.com
www.shireensandoval.com

Monday, May 11, 2015 Blog American Idol, Hollen & Jen, James Woodley Photography, Kore Boutique

Shireen's Favorite Things

Shireen’s Spotlight: Louie Bossi’s Ristorante Bar Pizzeria

The Blossoming

Animal Instincts with Jungle Island

Shireen’s Spotlight: Bistro Cassis

Shireen’s Weekend: Kid Idol

Shireen’s Weekend: One Split Second

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