Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

What:

A quick trip to Tulum; where the water is the color of turquoise, the food is the stuff a New Mexican girl’s dreams are made of and the atmosphere is tropical heaven with a side of incredible hospitality. Oh, and there’s just enough internet to allow a modern day woman to rest, relax and sip on a margarita or two.

Why:

After spending some quality time in France, who knew I needed another getaway? Apparently, I DID. If you’ve ever been to Europe you know exactly what I’m talking about. It’s not a place you go to rest, per se; it’s about exploring, discovering, going off-the-beaten-path, eating, drinking and sightseeing until you can’t anymore. I know, I know, I sound crazy, but if you’re like me, when all is said and done, sometimes you need a vacation from your vacation — which is exactly how I ended up making my “Great Escape” to Mexico.

More specifically, the El Dorado Spa & Resort, which happens to be one of the crown jewels of Tulum. It’s not just awe-inspiring, snuggled into the lush greenery of Quintana Roo, it’s also perfectly perched alongside a long stretch of sandy white beaches. If I were Jimmy Buffett, I’d write a song about it called “Lazy Days, Sexy Nights.” The lyrics would go something like this: “A drink in my left hand/one in my right/a white trimmed cabana/hugging me tight/Guess I found happiness/cuz I’m feeling alright/It’s just one of those Lazy Days/Sexy Nights.” Don’t worry, I won’t quit my day job. 😂

The best part of my “Great Escape” — besides the dreamy company —was my hotel balcony, which happened to be a private infinity pool. Yes, I said my balcony was an infinity pool. Oh wait, I enjoyed the swim-up bar, too. That was in the main area of the resort, where frozen Pina Coladas come out of the blender so fast & so frothy, you’ll think you’ve died and gone to happy hour heaven, every hour of every day. Then again, I’m a big foodie and with so many mouthwatering options, I had to strategically map out my menus from meal to meal: Mexican, Italian, Asian, seafood — so many restaurants, so little time.

In full disclosure, I’ve never been big on all-inclusive resorts. I just don’t like crowds or waiting in line. Plus, feeling special when I’m on vacation is a must (because like most people, I work hard and relish my time off,) but El Dorado isn’t just any ol’ place. It’s a sophisticated tropical escape where your every whim is indulged, you’re waited on hand and foot and the biggest challenge of the day is deciding what to eat and drink #OrderOfLobster by the pool, please. I’ll take fries with that and a margarita on the rocks.

Speaking of those aforementioned lines, there were none. In fact, sometimes I felt like I was on my own private island and it doesn’t get much better than that. Sigh. The only BAD part of my “Great Escape” was it ended way too soon. So, here I am, daydreaming of another stay at El Dorado. Next time, though, I’m hoping to stay in one of their beautiful over-the-water bungalows because the only thing better than swimming with the fishies is sleeping close to them, too — that’s why vacationing in Mexico is one of my Favorite Things.

Where:

El Dorado Royale Riviera Maya
IG: @eldoradoresorts #karismaexperience
www.eldoradosparesorts.com

When:

The best time to travel to Mexico is November through March. I went off-season for a special celebration, but tracking the tropics is stressful and trip insurance is a MUST during hurricane season.

We travel
not to escape life,
but for life not to
escape us.Anonymous
James Woodley Photography
Bathing Suits: @jcrew, Monokini: @Montce_swim
Jewery: @handmademiamibeach, @lexijewlery, @liliandcar
Scarves: @camarrero,
Large sunhat: @asos, the rest are from: @SanDiegoHatCompany
Cover-up’s: @bohemeboutique, @vchicstore, @camarrero
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Oh, Mexico” Auerbach
Wednesday, October 2, 2019 Shireen's Favorite Things , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Runway with the Circus

Runway With the Circus

Runway With the Circus

Runway With the Circus

Runway With the Circus

Runway With the Circus

Runway With the Circus

Runway With the Circus

Runway With the Circus

Runway With the Circus

Runway With the Circus

What:

Highlights from an amazing night judging Design Mix 2019 — a runway show featuring art, fashion and design — hosted by The International Interior Designer Association.

Why:

When someone invites you to judge a fashion event called “Peculiarium,” with a vintage circus theme, it definitely gets your attention. Step right up! Cue the ring master and feast your eyes on one of the coolest, most creative events I’ve seen in Miami in a long time. How’s that for an introduction?

Every year, the South Florida International Interior Design Association hosts Design Mix, an amazing runway competition. It’s a great concept that pairs design companies with textile sponsors; as a team, they collaborate to create a unique, show-stopping garment. The result? An explosion of originality and innovation on the runway.

Judging the event was not only awe-inspiring, it reignited my passion for fashion. Sometimes, I’m guilty of getting stuck in an artificial Instagram world, where the only mojo available is “How to Keep Up” rather than “How to discover what inspires.” At Design Mix…

They use tile, carpet, paint, drapery and other interesting textiles to create the fashion-forward, festive and even freakish — it was a circus theme, after all. The Scottish Rite Masonic Temple, in the Valley of Miami overlooking the river, was the backdrop for the stylish soiree and it didn’t disappoint. The Egyptian-inspired architecture added a sense of mystique to the already magical “Peculiarium,” theme.

Before the runway show, there was a cocktail party where circus food like hotdogs, french fries, peanuts and popcorn were on the menu, not to be outdone by a photo booth, adult beverages and carnivalesque performers. The main event opened with clowns, jugglers and the always entertaining Athena Dion, who happens to be one of the most popular drag queens in South Florida. Talk about entertainment!

Once the runway show started, the crowd was electrified, cheering for its favorite model wearing its favorite creation. Each ensemble delivered way more than just a walk down the runway, it was more like a deliberate saunter. Music, background video and choreographed steps were part of each presentation. They pouted/twirled/clawed/grimaced/smiled/danced/lunged, pretty much OWNING their respective themes. It was totally orgasmic, fashionably speaking.

I’m not gonna lie, judging Design Mix was no easy task. I don’t want to sound cliché, but seriously, everyone should have won for pushing the visual envelope. I’m sure my fellow judges (fashion tv host, Lucia Riano & fashion professor, Mario Braghierri ) would agree. There were different winners for different categories, but for overall fabulousness we could only choose one. The winner was..drum roll please…

Runway With the Circus

Edge of Architecture (EOA) was the design firm & TileBar, the sponsor and yes, tile was one of the outfit’s main themes, not an easy textile to manipulate, mold and eventually master into fashion, but WOW, what an outcome.

Congrats to everyone who worked it like the rent was due or in this case, the mortgage and thank you for inspiring me to take risks and embrace my individuality, which is what fashion is ultimately about. Design Mix 2019 is officially one of my #FavoriteThings. See you next year!

Where:

www.designmixsoflo.com

Be Social:
FB: @IIDASFC
IG: @iidasfc

Be faithful to your own taste, because nothing you really like is ever out of style.Billy Baldwin
James Woodley Photography
dress: Homer Avenue IG: @shophomeravenue www.shophomeravenue.com
earrings: @lexijewelry, clutch: @aldo, boots: @bcbg #LincolnRoad #SouthBeach
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Circus Boy” AuerbachSpecial thanks to Susset Cabrera & Peacock Public Relations
Wednesday, April 17, 2019 Shireen's Favorite Things , , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

What:

A glamorous, one-of-a-kind dinner at “Novikov Miami” — where Japanese & Chinese food fuse together beautifully.

Why:

Usually when I do #Spotlight, there’s something about the restaurant I’m featuring that’ll blow me away; sometimes it’s the food, other times it’s the incredible service or perhaps, the lively atmosphere. When it comes to “Novikov Miami” — it’s ALL of those things wrapped into one. It’s simply, #WorldClass.

My experience at the already popular eatery, which has only been open a few short months, was nothing short of sublime. In fact, I found it incredibly provocative and frankly, it surprised me. While the restaurant’s reputation is outstanding in other parts of the world (London, Dubai and Moscow, ) that doesn’t always guarantee success locally, but boy-oh-boy — “Novikov Miami” is definitely something to write home about. I’d even send a follow-up letter to get my point across. 💌

Its cuisine, which is some of the best in the Magic City, is fresh, clean and artistic and its modern decor matches, perfectly. Think “contemporary cool meets Miami sophistication.” If that weren’t enough — location, location, location. Its view has major real estate moxie; sitting on the edge of downtown close to the water (where the bay meets the river.) When I went last weekend, the sun was setting and the restaurant was bathed in a deliciously warm glow. It was heaven on earth…

Or maybe that was the “Wasabi Martini” talking. Made with vodka, purple basil, pineapple, wasabi, lemon and yuzu, you’ll be “drank” into submission. I’ve never even heard of a “Wasabi Martini,” let alone tried one. It was refreshing with a familiar kick and definitely a #MustTry. The “Apricot Margarita” is pretty special, too and if you like tequila, you’ll be in cocktail paradise (it’s made with prosecco, apricot, cardamom, clove and lemon.) If you prefer something stronger, “Kiri Old Fashioned” will get your motor running with whisky, spiced kola, applewood smoke and bitters. #ComeToMama

If you’re regular blog reader, you know how I love to cry when I eat, it’s the New Mexico girl in me and the “Scallop Jalapeño” didn’t disappoint. If you’re a little gun- shy, though, it comes with a sweet potato puree to tame the flame. The “Yuzu Salmon” topped with sesame seeds was simple & delicious. I’m a sucker for a good Yuzu sauce, especially when it’s salty & savory like Novikov’s.

There’s not a “too pretty to eat” category on the sushi menu, but if there were, you’d find “A5 Wagyu topped with Foie Gras” & “Chu Toro garnished with Caviar and gold flecks”. This was my favorite of the night. I’ve always struggled developing a taste for toro, but when done right, WOW, it’s out of this world and who doesn’t like the quality of Wagyu paired with foie gras? Both are a #MustTry.

If you’re a “Peking Duck” fan you’re gonna flip over Novikov’s simple yet succulent take on it. Served with all the fixings: cucumber, spring onion, sweet sauce and pancakes to wrap it all up in. The “Black Cod Rolls” are a stand-out, too with a great outer texture, think Nabisco Shredded Wheat, that gives way to a rich, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth middle.

While good Dim Sum can be hard to find in Miami, the “Spicy Prawn Moneybags”💰💰 are changing the game. The dashing little dumplings are perfectly plump and remind me of biting into little clouds of love. I’d list every ingredient, but that’s not Novikov’s way; they leave something to the taste bud imagination. Straight from the restaurant’s Fish Market, I tried the “Portuguese Red Mullet” which was handpicked, battered & fried into delicious bite-sized pieces. I love the concept of choosing what I’m eating and having a say over how it’s prepared.

I didn’t think I could manage dessert until I laid eyes on the “Tropical Ki-iro” (made with passion fruit, white chocolate ice-cream mango, mint and basil.) Holy fabulousness, Batman. My usual flowery adjectives can’t even do it justice. The “Double Chocolate Lava Cake” with sesame crumble, and ginger ice cream was a work of art and in true Miami style, the “Quatro Leches” is a satisfying mainstay.

There are a lot of great places to eat in the Magic City, but if you’re looking for something truly spectacular with exceptional service and amazing food, “Novikov Miami” is waiting for you and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things.

Where:

Novikov Miami inside Met 1
(ground floor)
300 South Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, Florida 33131

When:

Monday – Friday Novikov opens at 12pm
Saturday & Sunday for dinner at 6pm

Be Social:
IG: @novikovmiami
FB: @NovikovMiami
Twitter: @novikovmiami

Tell me what you eat and I will tell you what you are.Anthelme Brillat-Savarin
James Woodley Photography
wardrobe by @HotMiamiStyles
jewelry: @LexiJewelry
sneaker wedges: @stevemadden
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Too Pretty To Eat” Auerbach
Friday, August 3, 2018 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

Shireen’s Spotlight: Chuy’s

What:

FINALLY, good #TexMex makes its way to South Florida —thank you, Chuy’s!

Why:

Oh, the crazy things I’ve done to get some half-decent #TexMex in Florida.

I’ve eaten at dark, dank restaurants where runny beans and large plates of unidentifiable mush have made my bowels shriek for days. I’ve flown my mother in from New Mexico and forced her to bake (in bulk) my favorite Green Chicken Chile Enchiladas and in moments of complete despair, I’ve made midnight runs to “The Bell” to buy a box of tacos to munch away my miseries. #ExtraHotSaucePlease

I miss #TexMex so much that during my last visit home I ate it for breakfast, lunch AND dinner. Even my boyfriend was impressed with my South of the Border chow-down prowess. Frankly, I treated every meal like it were my last because I knew once I was back in the Magic City, #TexMex would become an elusive enigma again. I was so traumatized by the thought of not eating it…

Before we left the #LandOfEnchantment, I insisted on arriving at the airport a few hours early so I could have ONE more bowl of green chili stew (with extra sour cream.) I wept as I gulped it down. Sure, I was sad to leave home, but it was also extra spicy. Just the way I like it. #ThereIsNoShameInMyGame

As our plane lifted off bound for Miami, my chest tightened and while it was probably heartburn, it was also the thought of never finding the food I truly loved in South Florida. Oh, and I’d miss my family, too. So, imagine my delight when the very next night, I found myself presenting a story on #DecoDriveTV about a new place called: Chuy’s.

Its #TexMex concept intrigued me, but could its food REALLY withstand my ‘I grew up in New Mexico’ taste test? I wasn’t sure, but a few months later (after a nice invitation from my good friend, Larry) I decided to give it a go. The restaurant, originally from Austin, has a spirited feel to it. When you walk in, it’s buzzing with excitement and its decor is a mish-mosh of surfboards, metal palm trees and twinkly lights. There’s even a hubcap ceiling, a shrine to Elvis, pictures of customers’ pets line the walls and a plethora of suspended wooden fish give off the illusion of life underwater. 🐠🐟🐠🐟🐳

I found out the reason for the eclectic nature of the place. The two guys who started it (in an abandoned barbecue joint back in the 80’s) didn’t have money for much. Eventually, though, its quirky decor became part of its charming personality. With that being said, I went for a table in the bar because I liked its funky energy and we all know, mama likes a good drink. Speaking of…

I started #Spotlight with a Swirl, which is one of Chuy’s famous “Rita’s” (margaritas). Mine was frozen and layered with flavors. The cute concoction is perfect for a piping hot summer day and, it was about 90 degrees out. I almost dumped it over my head, but instead went for an aggressive form of sipping. Hello, #BrainFreeze While I’m not a sweet drink lover, it was yummy and of course, refreshing.

If you prefer your adult beverages 305-style, try one of their hand-shaken “Mojitos” with fresh mint. Go Classic or fruity with fresh Blackberry/Strawberry. If you really wanna turn it up a notch, “The Original Texas Tini” will knock your socks off. It’s served in an 18-oz. shaker and comes with a dainty salt-rimmed martini glass. My favorite part? It’s garnished with hand-stuffed jalapeño olives. #GetInMyBelly I shook my Tini like I meant it for a maximum frustrated bartender effect, once poured it was — #WOW #OliveYou #IneedThisInMyLifeOnAweeklyBasis. Strong drinks mean you gotta eat and…

Why try one starter when you can nibble on ‘em all, literally. The “Appetizer Plate” comes with chile con queso, nachos, deluxe quesadillas, chicken flautas, guacamole & sour cream. #MyCupRunnethOver It’s definitely large and in-charge and made for the entire table. Watching your waistline? Don’t worry, they have great salads, too. I tried the “Mexi Cobb” served with fajita chicken, green chiles, cheese, avocados, tomatoes and fresh greens.

When I bit into the “Steak Burrito” (under House Specialities) a warm feeling of home came over me. The 12” roll of deliciousness isn’t just stuffed with sliced grilled steak and cheese — it’s topped with spicy HATCH Green Chili Sauce FROM NEW MEXICO. Sorry, I don’t mean to yell at you in all caps, but it was an earth-shattering moment for me. True #TexMex in South Florida!!!? 😭 My prayers had finally been answered. (The entree was served with green chili rice and charro beans.) #ThankYouFoodGods

If that weren’t enough, I went cra cra over Chuy’s sizzling Fajitas, which are marinated in a blend of bock beer, Serrano peppers, lime juice & secret spices. I got the beef and chicken combo served with all the fixings: lettuce, guacamole, sour cream, cheese & pico de gallo. It comes with Mexican rice, refried beans and fluffy handmade flour tortillas. (They make ALL of their tortillas from scratch.)

Because I don’t want to make this blog as long as the Old Testament (and it’s getting close,) you have to try the “Tres Leches” dessert. I lovingly call it “crack cake” because it’s highly addictive. One bite and your life changes forever. The fabulous staff at Chuy’s (shout-out to them for making my visit so special) also served-up “Sopapillas” — a New Mexico tradition and a great way to make a girl feel at home. Which got me to thinking…

They say home is where the heart is, but I’m pretty sure —now— a part of mine is at Chuy’s in Doral and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things. Cheers !!

Where:

Chuy’s
8001 NW 36th Street
Doral, Florida 33161
& opening soon in Kendall & Miami

When:

Sunday – Thursday: 11am-10:30pm
Friday & Saturday: 11am-11pm

www.chuys.com

Be Social:
FB: @Chuys.Restaurants
IG: @chuysrestaurant
Twitter: @ChuysRestaurant

Thank God I don’t have to hunt for my food, I don’t even know where tacos live…anonymous
James Woodley Photography
wardrobe by Vchic Boutique
jewelry by Lexi Jewelry
Hat & Boots are my own from Santa Fe
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Muy Bueno” Auerbach
Friday, July 20, 2018 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,