The Sweet Chronicles of Mrs. Boots & Sirs

Lately

2011-09-12T00:01:00.001-04:00

1. Went to the newly opened, famous in Paris, and now famous in NY, pastry shop, Ladurée. It's on 71st & Madison and I don't care what anyone says, I loooove the upper east side. So clean! The caramel with salted butter & green apple were my favorites. The citrus and blackcurrant & violet were not.
2. My headboard adorned with my (F21 & J Crew) jewels. I don't remember where I got this strange idea. I want to say it was from Lauren Conrad. Random.
3. Echo @ Madison Square Park. Kind of looks like a hologram when you move. It seems like it's breathing...or maybe it was me.
4. Burgers for dinner because we were hungry and because my cute friend Melissa now lives in New York! Hurray!
5. Friends who stroll down Saint Nicholas and decide to buzz us just to say hi. Very cute.

911

2011-09-11T21:49:00.004-04:00

10 years ago, I was a girl with big hair and big dreams.

I love this city.

photo via

Mr. Chow

2011-09-07T23:34:00.005-04:00

I'm back from Miami & I had the best time. It was the perfect mix of home/vacation. I slept, I shopped, I ate and I got a (much needed) massage - all while spending time with my people.

On Saturday, my people and I went to Mr. Chow to celebrate my saggy behind turning 28 (sad). 30 is the new 20?

Mr. Chow...meh. I wouldn't go back...unless you're paying, then yes, definitely. & I would get the prawns with walnuts and the fiery beef.

But if I were paying? We'd go to Zuma. & I'd feed you some delicious bass.

It was my birthday!

2011-09-01T19:06:00.000-04:00

On Tuesday. & I celebrated by getting off work early, taking my Department of Health Food Protection test (& passing, woop), coming home to a room decked out in birthday decorations (and cupcakes) by Amy and a very late dinner at ABC Kitchen. I obviously don't know many people here so I was expecting to have a normal, quiet day but everyone was really sweet at work and I was surprised with a bouquet of flowers and chocolate. At the end, it's those little, unexpected surprises and all the love you get on your birthday that make it special. This weekend...Miami!

Ajna Bar

2011-08-31T21:02:00.002-04:00

I'm on 4 hours of sleep and I have to be up super early tomorrow so I'm trying to race the clock but I wanted to share my (quick) thoughts on Ajna. It's beautiful. It's huge. It's owned by that douchebag, Hung, who won Top Chef a couple of seasons ago. The food is good but you pay for ambiance as is the deal with most of these types of restaurants. & it's in the Meatpacking District. My favorite neighborhood for nighttime outings...& getting my heels stuck in cobblestone.

nevermind, I'll find someone like you

2011-08-30T00:28:00.005-04:00

Haven't we all been there?

Was really hoping I'd have a day off work

2011-08-29T00:01:00.000-04:00

Being that I've had to deal with countless hurricane warnings (& survived Hurricane Andrew which completely destroyed South Miami back in '92), I wasn't too concerned about Hurricane Irene. I planned on ignoring all the hype Saturday but with everything closing early and the MTA down, I was forced to stay in.

I took full advantage and the weekend consisted of an at-home mani/pedi, about 6 romantic comedies, quiet naps and tons of bad food. It wasn't the most productive weekend but it was far from terrible. As for the "hurricane", we got some heavy winds and rain here in Harlem throughout the evening but if anything else went down, I was blissfully unaware.

I took a walk around my neighborhood Sunday morning to assess the damage. As you can see, the only thing that suffered any devastation was my waistline.

A Train Hobos, Shenanigans & Cheap Thrills

2011-08-25T22:54:00.005-04:00

You get on the train. You smell something peculiar. "Excuse me, ladies & gentlemen"...

So polite.

There's a black dude that looks about an inch away from death. I'm concerned for him. He looks like he's about to keel over at any second. He's always barefoot and is both bald and has dreads?

A white guy who goes around asking for change and says something that sounds a lot like "shalum". Not shalom but shalum. I'm trying to figure out what this means.

There's one that sings "Can you please help the hungry and the homeless? Can you please spare change for a dolla?". He's my favorite.

Earlier this week there was a Dominican guy really upset that "women to women" can get married. "Be careful. God is not happy", he preached loudly at 7am. He was on the other side of the train and it felt like he was screaming directly into my ear. I am not a morning person. & New Yorkers are rude? Yeah, right. No one asked him to kindly shut the fuck up and it went on from when I got on at 145th until 42nd street. "Santo sea el nombre de Dios".

Don't get me wrong. The A train & I are tight.

& when you happen to be on a local train and you pull up to a station to see the GLORIOUS A train across the platform. What a rush! Will I make it?!

So far, I've always made it.

Revolving doors make me feel fancy.

2011-08-24T23:32:00.007-04:00

I felt as if I was transported into another decade. Can't you just envision Scarface slouched in a corner booth, smoking a cigar? He would have hung out at The Hurricane Club, for sure. Bartenders & waiters wear white smoking jackets & gloves. I don't even really know what a smoking jacket is but I can bet that that's what they were.

I can't be sure that my friends were happy with their choices but I was more than satisfied with both my drink and my meal.

I need to go back with pork lovers. They serve whole roasted pigs. YUM.

The soap in the bathroom smells nice.

Saturday Afternoon

2011-08-23T22:11:00.007-04:00

It was supposed to rain all weekend but luckily Saturday turned out to be an absolutely beautiful day. After an indulgent breakfast at Norma's, Boots, who was in town all weekend (!), and I headed to Central Park to unwind.

I've realized that if I'm ever having a bad day, I should head to Central Park. It has magical powers over me that never cease to amaze.

By the way, please run to Norma's. You're going to want to order the Very Berry Brioche French Toast with a side of bacon. It got Boot's silent "my mouth is too full to speak" nod of approval & I've turned him into quite the knowledgeable eater.

Weekend via Instagram

2011-08-14T20:40:00.007-04:00

1. (L) My walk to work every morning. (R) I've become one of those people. Those people who literally walk on your heels, pushing you without physically touching you, urging you to GET.THE.FUCK.OUT.OF.MY.WAY. Slow walkers irritate me. Especially on a crowded subway platform.

2. (L) The highlight of my Friday afternoons is getting home from work to see the laundry room is unoccupied. Rare occurrence around here. Happy hour does not compare to clean sheets & towels. (R) My Friday night. Really delicious bottle of $7 Riesling. Ha.

3. (L) I take myself on matinee dates regularly. Saw The Help. A little long but the ending was perfect. The book is (as always) better. (R) Shout out to Shazia from Himalayan Threading Salon on 47th & 6th for hooking up my brows.

4. (L) Skinnygirl Sangria has been found! I had to rape and pillage but it was worth it. Just as good (and strong) as her margarita. If you haven't figured it out, I am obsessed with Bethenny. I want to be her. I am her turned down about a few thousand notches. (R) Me, my nails (and my Con Edison bill) are ready for fall (military green in "sew psyched" and taupe in "mink muffs"). I am not looking forward to winter so please feel free to linger, Fall.

5. (L) Rainy Sunday through my window (R) calls for breakfast in bed. Mangu, fried eggs, fried cheese, fried salami and jugo de chinola. I'm Dominican therefore this does not gross me out. In fact, I would willingly eat it every morning.

You know your pops told you, "Watch them New York boys".

2011-08-10T21:52:00.010-04:00

After a grueling 11 hour work day, I had exhaustion written all over my face and was desperately awaiting the arrival of my train home. My hair was a hot mess, I was wearing baggy slacks and these really attractive shoes yet I still got a "God bless you, gorgeous". Well, damn...really? Today?!

New York City men always know how to make you feel beautiful. Even on your worst days.

Keep it up, gentlemen.

One Month

2011-08-08T21:46:00.011-04:00

I've been here exactly one month today! Best decision ever? Top three, for sure. Wanna hear about my daily loves? Sure you do.

My neighborhood - or more so the fact that the express train is literally a 50 step walk from my front door. I have everything I need within a two block radius.
My neighbors - Everyone is so friendly and quiet. The windows in our apartment face the back so we get no outside noise. It's so serene and a nice escape from the hectic streets. We even have a "doorman" that goes by the name of Mega that assured me that "If anyone fucks with ya'll, come find me. I'll fuck them up. I gotta take care of my ladies." I should mention that he's in his mid-50's and wears a du-rag. Love.
My deli - Abdul! He greets me every time I walk through the door or down the sidewalk. I was paying for something one day and he goes "You have nose like my wife". I said "Oh no, so your wife has a big nose?". He looked a little confused. Next day I go in he takes out his phone and shows me a picture of his wife. Sure enough, I DO have her nose. & it's big. But he married her and her schnoz so I'm flattered, really.
My job - I work in the Financial District right now and I love the energy down there. & the neighboring nail salons that offer mani/pedi combos for $20. & the fruit cart guys right outside my job that greet me at 6:25am and without fail, say the exact same thing every morning "OKAY, how are you, my friend?!" while smiling, nodding and offering me some of their finest produce. They're so sweet. I have to stop myself from squeezing their cheeks and kissing the tips of their noses.

I could not have asked for a smoother transition. I get a little antsy on weekends wanting to explore every nook of this city. I have to remind myself that I live here now and I have plenty of time. I just feel that there's so much to do, see and eat and I really want to take it all in.

All in all, living here is a dream. Except for the pigeons. Will never love the pigeons.

Lately

2011-08-07T00:46:00.005-04:00

1. This is what happens when I get bored. I need friends in this city asap. Here's what's in the bag (in mustard).
2. My Saturday night. Bad ass cheesesteak from "my" deli (my man Abdul knows exactly how I like my sangwetch.), Little Debbie's and the NYC Food Handler's certificate online course. I have my Florida certificate but it doesn't transfer over and my job requires one. I can tell you all about escherichia coli and temperature danger zones. You ain't about this life!
3. I think I'm going to go around the West Village just photographing doors.There are some fancy doors in that neighborhood.
4. I'd been on a search for peonies but I guess they're spring time flowers? No idea what these are called but they make my room happy.
5. Beef, pork, veal & pecorino sliders from The Little Owl on Bedford Street. Juicy.

August Thirtieth

2011-08-03T00:01:00.002-04:00

It's that time of year where I tell you what I want to buy myself for my birthday and post pretty pictures that make me happy!

1. Clarisonic Skincare Brush
2. Hunter Rainboots
3. 9 Course dinner at Per Se. Only $295 pp. & worth every cent, so I've heard.
4. Marc Jacobs wallet
5. A variety of Sprinkles cupcakes

Last Wednesday

2011-08-02T00:01:00.000-04:00

New York City summers mean rooftop happy hours, rooftop parties, rooftop BBQ's, rooftop Bat Mitvah's and most importantly, rooftop tanning.

Red Rooster

2011-08-01T00:01:00.001-04:00

I don't really feel like doing anything right now. It's 12:30pm on a Sunday. Do you know what that means? It means it's time for a nap! So here's a quick list.

Things you should know about Red Rooster:
It's the trendiest restaurant in Harlem but you will still hear sirens throughout your meal.
Your friends will think it's expensive. It's not.
The host will tell you to order the crab cakes. I assure you you've had better crab cakes elsewhere.
But the host has a really sexy voice and dresses spiffy so you'll probably get the crab cakes anyway.
Go with the mac & cheese.

My pillow awaits.

Inner. Inner City. Inner City Pressure.

2011-07-29T03:25:00.006-04:00

Nothing makes me feel more like a scrub than putting on some heels, moisturizing my legs, spraying myself with a few splashes of Fresh's Sugar and then heading underground to catch the train. Something about that just doesn't make sense. But I like to keep my cab fund low and my restaurant fund high. Priorities.

Miami

2011-07-28T11:01:00.006-04:00

Oddly enough, this song makes me miss it. It's just so damn Miami. It's played on every station down there & it reminds me of my last weeks'. Those last weeks' where I would get teary-eyed in the most unexpected places. Like during spinning class. Have you ever seen anyone wiping tears away while pedaling furiously? The last thing it makes you want to do is grab somebody sexy and tell them "Hey!". Irony.

Lately

2011-07-27T01:24:00.004-04:00

1. I'm trying to keep myself from buying trendy/bad quality clothing but sometimes you can't resist a $19 dress, ya know?
2. Dear Neighbors, I'm not used to your windows being in such close proximity to mine. My apologies. Sincerely, Naked Girl Making Waffles
3. Pretty sure my "roommate" thinks I'm insane (although I like to believe she secretly enjoys how ~~organized~~ anal I am). All labels must face forward in the exact same angle. I like my cupboards and refrigerator to look like a grocery store. This is perfectly normal behavior, right?!
4. Picked up some summer cherry cupcakes from Sprinkles for the birthday girl and I.
5. The current state of my living room. Really missing all the storage space I had in my old apartment.

King of the hill. Top of the heap.

2011-07-25T13:15:00.002-04:00

We hit up the Meatpacking District Friday night with intentions of lounge/bar hopping. Our first stop was Top of the Standard which boasts gorgeous views of...New Jersey. Okay, New York too but mainly New Jersey. Regardless, it's lavish up there. The crowd is pretty tame but I'm old and I prefer it that way as opposed to having to walk through crowds of people grinding on each other and having drinks spilled on your freshly ironed romper. (Yes, I wore a romper. It was hot.) If the music is on but low enough where you can still hold a conversation, I'm all in.

We bumped into Buddakan on the way to Dream and couldn't resist. I considered the night a success after the edamame dumplings but it became definite when Empire State of Mind was played and although the song is so played out that it's lost most of it's meaning, it caused me to have my first "Holy shit, I live here" moment. I had been waiting for it. Goosebumps, people, goosebumps.

hot summer streets & the pavements are burning

2011-07-25T00:01:00.003-04:00

The east coast experienced scorching temperatures this weekend. I know you'd think I'm supposed to be used to it because I'm from Miami but no. NO. We are spoiled in Miami and go from central A/C to central A/C. The most heat we have to endure is the short walk to our air conditioned cars so no...NO, I'm not used to it. It's inescapable here. & the electric companies reduce voltage in order to prevent blackouts so your thermostat never quite reaches the desired temperature. All I wanted to do was stick my head in the freezer, ride the C train (best A/C!) and eat spoonfuls of passion fruit sorbet.

Blood, Bones & Butter

2011-07-21T00:21:00.003-04:00

Currently reading Gabrielle Hamilton's (owner of Prune in the East Village) chef memoir. The title caught my attention.

I believe you have to have a certain personality to be a chef - significantly jaded and considerably out of your mind. & although I haven't finished the book, this autobiography hasn't proven me wrong yet.

Lately

2011-07-20T00:01:00.003-04:00

1. My hood. Not pictured is the deli that is open 24 hours that greets you as soon as you get off the train where I happen to purchase my individually wrapped zebra cakes.
2. Having to haul your own boxes out of Ikea's warehouse is horrid and mildly life threatening.
3. Thank God for ZipCar!
4. Union Square Market for all your colorful fruit and vegetable needs.
5. I still can't believe that I have a New York City address. I secretly love filling out forms where it asks for city & state. New York, NY! If you think I'm annoying now, it's only going to get worse.

Improv Everywhere - MP3 Experiment 8

2011-07-18T22:31:00.001-04:00

I've been following Improv Everywhere and their shenanigans for a couple of years now and was always slightly bummed I couldn't participate in events like Frozen Grand Central or their annual No Pants Subway Ride (although I admit, I'd have to give myself a good pep talk before I work up the guts to go through with that one).

When I found out they were hosting their 8th Mp3 Experiment, I immediately sent the details over to Amy. She said "let's do it" and I ran around the city looking for glow sticks. Ha!

They give you a set of instructions and a list of things to bring. This year it was divided into two "tribes", black shirts (born January-June) and white shirts (July-December). We were to download a 50 minute Mp3 and bring a mask, glow stick, a flashlight, a camera with flash and an item that glows to the pier in Battery Park.

We arrived around 8:15 and spotted literally thousands of people with white & black shirts. You're supposed to act discreet until the "mission" starts but everyone was wearing headphones...pretty obvious. & hysterical.

At approximately 8:30 you're to start the Mp3 and you're then instructed (by the creepiest voice by the way - think Jigsaw from the Saw movies.) on what to do for the next 50 minutes.

It's basically a huge, hilarious game of Simon Says. The best part was when we were told to take out our glow sticks and rave like it was 1996.

I love making random memories.

The aerial shots are c/o Improv Everywhere.

Zuma

2011-07-18T00:24:00.002-04:00

I had a little going away dinner my last weekend in Miami at Zuma in the Epic Hotel. Ambiance, amazing. Dinner, amazing. Friends, amazing. & believe it or not...Miami, amazing! I will never deny that it is a beautiful place filled with beautiful people but I was in desperate need of change.

In the days prior to my move I was filled with overwhelming sadness and I was scared that maybe it was a sign that I was making a mistake. I didn't even dare express that to anyone. As my plane was taking off last Tuesday, I felt nothing. I was trying to force myself to feel something, anything. When I arrived at my apartment here in the city, the excitement settled in. I know I made the right decision. That's not to say that I won't have my "I hate New York" moments but the pros definitely outweigh the cons. It's so very different from back home yet I already feel like I've lived here for years. & I can't wait for the never-ending "I <3 New York" moments that make me positively giddy.

I live here!

2011-07-14T14:22:00.011-04:00

(L) I lugged a huge fan on/off the train and up Broadway on a very hot day. I'm used to cars and trunks. This was my reward.
(R) The robot that saved me from having to sleep on the fire escape in hopes to catch a breeze.

(L) Jesus! Get the steak, not the chicken.
(R) "Get off my stoop!"

(L,R) We got off the train to go grocery shopping and found ourselves face-to-face with Harlem Tavern. So we went, of course. & it's the new hot spot 'round here.

(L) Harlem Tavern's outside seating.
(R) Sing For Hope project features pop-up pianos all over parks in NYC.

(L) I thought those corny Get connected! For free (free)! At Ed-u-cation Con-nection! commercials were specific to Miami. Guess not! Please note I got rid of my old, white 13" TV that I had for over 14 years. Sad.
(R) Patsy's pizza. Yum.

(L) Lonely B train.
(R) Mango doughnut from The Doughnut Plant in Chelsea.

(L) I'm in love with my bathtub.
(R) But you can't win them all...NYC shopping carts. I can't get jiggy with this?

(L) Welcome home!
(R) This makes me an official New Yorker, doesn't it?

whenever i'm alone with you, you make me feel like i am home again

2011-06-27T13:36:00.008-04:00

The greatest love song ever written. Well, in my opinion. & that's what counts around here, in case you hadn't heard.

I was building furniture yesterday listening to Pandora and this song came on and I got in a romantic mood. It's been stuck in my head ever since. Don't mind me.

The High Line - Phase II

2011-06-23T23:57:00.004-04:00

I love the High Line even more with the newly extended section in place. It's brilliant. & I'm impressed with how they manage to keep it so clean.

Now someone give this girl a job

2011-06-23T00:04:00.001-04:00

Seriously, momma's got some hefty bills to pay. Dang.

The Standard Grill

2011-06-22T00:44:00.007-04:00

After I got word that we had the final approval on our apartment, I called Amy and insisted we celebrate. We walked around the newly opened section of the High Line and hopped on over to The Standard Grill.

If you follow me on the Twitters, you already know how miserable I am due to the fact that I can't chew (& that my jaw is the size of Kanye West's post-accident. We're working on a remix called "Through The Straw".) so not only could I not have a cocktail (on antibiotics) but my dinner options were limited.

Not much of a celebration, I know.

But Standard Grill gave me simple syrup to sweeten my iced tea instead of sugar packets. It's the little things.

Isn't it always the little things?

Sugar Hill Gang

2011-06-21T23:39:00.007-04:00

Great news. We got the apartment! It wasn't our first choice & it's a little more uptown than we wanted (I fell in lust with the 116th area) but it's a beauty. The kitchen isn't even the best part and trust, this is one badass kitchen for New York standards. Dare I say, even for Miami standards.

It's happening! & it's scary and exciting...and scary and exciting!

Hot Child in the City

2011-06-21T11:51:00.003-04:00

I'm back & looking forward to celebrating the first day of summer with a vanilla cone from Mister Softee. With rainbow colored sprinkles of course.

Very Lately & Not So Lately

2011-06-16T01:45:00.005-04:00

1. So there's this Uruguayan restaurant around the way that I like to frequent. What the hell is an Uruguay and what the hell do they serve in their restaurants, say you? Well, it's pretty much the same as Argentinean cuisine meaning flank steak, skirt steak, steak steak, sausage on steak, sausage on sausage - it's all very homoerotic and then there's this - the chaja. Chajoo? Layers of meringue mixed with peach slices, sponge cake bathed in peace juice and a thick layer of the best dulce de leche. I honestly come here for this and this alone. Though I don't hate the little warm breads they serve before your meal, either. I like to fill them with chimichurri. Oh gaaaw, I'm hungry.
2. Having to take a trip to Toys-R-Us to buy a friends daughter a birthday gift obviously means you have to try out all the toys yourself. You know, to make sure they're not hazardous or anything. Let's not talk about my hair. We are clearly not on the same page. & let's not talk about how the straighter my teeth get, the bigger my nose gets. Let's just not do this right now.
3. Speaking of teef, wisdom teef. Well, wisdom teeth are assholes. & the sooner you get rid of assholes making your life a living hell, the better for you. & I'll have you know I can now audition to play Alvin, Simon OR Theodore in their next big blockbuster hit and I'm sure I'd nail it.
4. I took myself on a date the last day I was in NY and went to Luke's Lobster on the UWS. Duuuuuuude. They do not skimp. Those lobster chunks were massive. I could have had three of these. & their sodas are suuuuper. & I like to pretend I don't like soda so that's saying something?
5. I like this tasty little corner of the West Village. Murray's Cheese, Keste, Grom and popbar. & this cute little "park" where you can enjoy your pistachio & hazelnut gelato while staring at weirdos (undoubtedly my favorite NYC pastime).

I want this

2011-06-09T19:40:00.000-04:00

Hanging over my bed. But it's $130. Why?

out of it

2011-06-09T02:51:00.002-04:00

The transition from college student to uh, "what the hell do I do now" has me thrown for a loop. I'm not feeling like myself and though it's only been two weeks, this not having a thing to do is already getting old. It's a lot of "hurry up & wait" lately. Some days there aren't enough hours to get everything done and others I'm just staring at my phone and refreshing my email hoping for an approval on an apartment or a call from one of the 20-something jobs I've applied for. Again, I know it's only been two weeks but I'm not known for having patience, friends. Then again, I can literally get a call tomorrow that our application was approved and things will get really chaotic - having to pack my stuff up, sell my car & a bunch of other things that I won't get into because they're sorta private. Of course this is what I wanted and I'm still very much excited but you plan things out so well in your head and well, it doesn't quite turn out the way you expect. I like having a routine and I don't have one right now. This sounds very "woe is me". Trust, it's not. Honestly, I'm just bored out of my mind and don't like not knowing what's going to happen and when! So that's what's up.

Lately: NYC Edition II

2011-06-01T00:01:00.002-04:00

1. Rooftop happy hour at Sky Room in Hells Kitchen.
2. After we found out we had to pay to get onto Long Beach, we immediately made our way to the liquor store.
3. Our broker said I had to try Jesus Taco's in Harlem. So I did. The tacos al carbon hit the spot.
4. Dear Heaven on 119th, if I do not become your tenant, I'll always remember you fondly.
5. No trip to NY is complete without a picnic in Central Park.

Won't you be my neighbor?!

2011-05-31T00:01:00.001-04:00

I can pretty much bet my life on the fact that these are the best cookies in New York City. But we already established that last summer, didn't we?

This is about the fact that the beautiful apartment we applied for happens to be right across the street from the new Levain in Harlem. & we want it. Really bad.

Please, please, please let this cookie be ours.

Burger Joint

2011-05-29T23:47:00.002-04:00

I had heard about Burger Joint, a hole in the wall tucked inside a schmancy hotel, a couple of years ago and after a particularly long weekend of apartment hunting in the city, Amy & I found ourselves in Midtown, a block away from Le Parker Meridian. This place is hidden in a dark hallway by the concierge and the only indication you've arrived is that neon burger sign. I've heard if you don't have your order ready by the time you get to the register, they'll go New York on your ass so I was ready: cheeseburgermediumwelllettucetomatoesketchuppleaseandthankyou.

Burger was decent. Fries weren't. If you're in the area, you should stop by. If you're not, find your nearest Shake Shack and shut up.

Sprinkles Cupcakes

2011-05-27T00:01:00.001-04:00

Naturally, my first stop when I arrived in New York was a cupcake bakery, Sprinkles, which opened less than two weeks ago. I had already done my research on their flavors of the day and was set on the salty caramel, lemon coconut, orange and strawberry flavors. The strawberry was one of the best, freshest cupcakes I've had and their flavor of the month, salty caramel was so addicting!

Cupcakes just a trend? Yeah, not so much.

Lately: NYC Edition

2011-05-26T16:53:00.004-04:00

1. Amy's hallway via peephole
2. Artist Will Ryman installed huge rose sculptures along Park Avenue back in January to lift people out of the winter blues. How romantic, right? They'll be taken down at the end of this month now that it's officially spring and actual flowers are in bloom.
3. I can get used to this.
4. I never really know where I am when I wander around New York and I always get excited when I happen to "bump" into the Chrysler Building (or the Empire State Building). I love how it lights up the sky.
5. 12:30am sugar fix. Amy & I ordered McDonald's chocolate chip cookies for the train ride home from Murray Hill.

Mandarin Gourmet Donut Shoppe

2011-05-25T00:01:00.001-04:00

Never fear my beloved and old friend, Cake, you are still number one on my list. But doughnuts are a very close second in my sweet, sugary addiction.

I bought a coupon from Living Social for Mandarin Gourmet Donut Shoppe - $12 for 12 doughnuts & 12 minis. Hell yes. Except, they pick the flavors for you which is both shitty and genius on their part as there was a lemon and guava/cream cheese that didn't make it into my box that I must go back and try sooner than later.

These are really doughy. I know they're doughnuts smart ass but I personally prefer the airy Krispy Kreme type. That twisty, cinnamon one was "money" though.

Steak 954

2011-05-23T23:47:00.005-04:00

My family treated me to brunch at the very posh W Hotel after graduation. The decor was pimp, you could see the ocean across the street and service was perfect but the main courses left much to be desired. I still like this place. A jellyfish tank and short rib eggs benedict? C'mon!

& in case you're wondering (please be wondering), I've lost 10 lbs! Downside? If you thought I had small b00bs before, they're pretty much nonexistent now.

Off to sleep. NYC in the AM! Send me positive apartment & job hunting vibes!

Steak 954.

Bachelor of Science

2011-05-23T00:40:00.004-04:00

I wore the Dumbledore costume so it's officially official.

A big thank you to friends, family and the Boots for all the love and support these past 4 years.

I fucking love you guys.

All your life you've never seen a woman taken by the wind

2011-05-19T21:54:00.004-04:00

I don't watch American Idol but if I did, I'd vote for this chick. She's a badass.

(Okay, I just found out she was eliminated. So much for that.)

School's out for summer. School's out FOREVER.

2011-05-19T18:27:00.001-04:00

I'M DONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dunkee Doner

2011-05-18T00:01:00.002-04:00

The same friend who calls Shake Shack, "Shack Attack" calls Dunkin Donuts, "Dunkee Doner". In her Pakistani accent, it's hysterical. But this isn't about Dunkee Doner. This is about a far superior doner. A doner I've been depriving myself of for months.

& in about 2 minutes flat, that's what was left. The original glazed is majorly underrated. & they serve it all warm and stuff. Aw, man.

A conversation

2011-05-17T00:01:00.005-04:00

To be read in Spanish if possible.

Mom: You know, when you move to New York you have to be prepared for anything. You should carry a pair of flats in your purse "por si acaso se arma un rebulu" (a dramatic way of saying "in case an emergency occurs" in Spanish).

Me: I always carry a pair of flats in my purse but is that your discreet way of saying I should prepare myself for Osama's retaliation?

Mom: Yes. I think of everything. One should always be prepared. I even thought of buying you something for you to always have with you.

Me (loling): What, mace?

Mom: Well, yeah that too but I also wanted to buy you something you can use in case you get trapped somewhere and can't free yourself...something that people will be able to hear. I want to buy you "un pito" (a whistle). You know, some people were saved during 9/11 because they made noise and were heard. With a whistle, it'll make it easier.

Dude...how fucking nuts is she. Speaking of nuts, it gets better.

Mom: I'm even gonna buy you some small bags of peanuts so you can sustain yourself for a few days in case anything happens.

& there you have it, folks.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

2011-05-16T00:01:00.000-04:00

I took the golden apple as a sign of positive things to come.

Lately

2011-05-13T15:40:00.003-04:00

1. You're totally gonna judge me because these chocolate bars were $10 each but I couldn't pass them up! Vosges is known for their chocolate & bacon bar but I've tried the whole chocolate/bacon mix and meh, not for me. These two flavors seemed much more interesting & the peanut butter/sea salt bar was worth every cent!
2. Chicharróne & mofongo from La Tambora. It wasn't very good but I thoroughly enjoyed the Dominican accents, morir soñando and old school merengue they played throughout the meal. Merengue is my favorite genre of music by far. I realize you probably can't relate but I like to joke that I'm a 60 year old Dominican man with a love of merengue and a weird thing for Kanye West and Sade.
3. Please note that I am wearing a Miami Heat shirt in this picture. However, do not confuse me for a fan (I have a Florida Marlin shirt and I can't name a single player on the team). I just like being festive and partaking in events that involve curly fries from Hooters. I do think it's awesome that so many people are rooting for the Heat. It would just be a bit more respectable if people were always rooting for the Heat. Not only when they're in the playoffs.
4. Oh, Bahama Breeze! Are you laughing? Well, stop because you are a fool. I'm against chain restaurants for the most part but Bahama Breeze is consistently delicious. Everything on the menu is Caribbean inspired (Jamaican, Cuban, Puerto Rican, Dominican) and I've never ordered something I didn't like. I hadn't been in a long time but they have new menu items and this chicken with cilantro cream and mashed taters with roasted corn are holy shit good.
5. Blue suede shoes! I am Raquel. & I only talk about food & shoes. Stay tuned for next week when I switch things up and post pictures of me enjoying my third passion, sex. Hello, family.

To Do List

2011-05-11T01:57:00.005-04:00

I just pulled a 5 page paper out.of.my.ass.

Whenever my to-do list gets tedious and plain mind boggling, this happens. By "this" I mean, I'm wired. My mind is racing with all the things I have to check off.

In the middle of finals and final projects/powerpoints/papers/omgwtfbbq, I'm trying to find an apartment and go through an extensive application process, sell my car (anyone want a beat up Civic?), figure out how to move all my belongings about 1500 miles up north and fit them into tiny crevices of these NYC apartments, figure out who is going to take over the rent in my current apartment here in Miami. Oh, and trying to find a job that will pay my rent and actually allow me to eat once in a while. That, not eating this chocolate bar that is currently making googly eyes at me and trying to keep my house neat while two messy mofos take over my house...uuuuuh, I'm going out of my mind.

I'm not even double-checking to see if this post makes any sense. Why am I even here. I'm going to sleep.

Sra. Martinez

2011-05-08T21:20:00.004-04:00

Boots & I took his mom to Sra. Martinez for mother's day & the vibe was perfect. The space used to be an old post office and is now clad in dark woods, chocolate leather booths and red accents. Very chic.

Sra. Martinez (the very famous Michelle Bernstein) herself was there and the service was friendly and attentive. From what I saw, I would recommend going for brunch as the tapas portions that are commonly served for dinner were really tiny and not so reasonably priced.

We shared the huevos rancheros, banana stuffed french toast and pork belly eggs benedict and everything was super delicious. & in case you're wondering why eggs benedict makes an appearance in every brunch post, it's because Raul is an addict.

Hope your day was special!

M. Dukes

2011-05-08T18:00:00.003-04:00

My biggest support & my best friend.

& she's pretty hot for being 63.

Happy Mother's Day to all you baby mommas!

Skinnygirl Margarita Cupcakes

2011-05-05T21:24:00.002-04:00

I figured since I wasn't going to partake in the tradition of getting wasted this Cinco de Mayo, I'd give myself a treat. A Skinnygirl Margarita cupcake is a bit of an oxymoron as the only thing skinny about this is the alcohol in it but I almost convinced myself these were guilt-free...had it not been for that damn buttercream.

I was hoping they'd turn out shitty so I wouldn't be tempted to eat more than one but they were (are) really good. Here's the recipe.

Cupcakes:
1 c flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 stick room temp. butter
3/4 c sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla
zest of one lime
1/4 c milk
6 tbsp Skinnygirl Margarita (if you want a stronger flavor, add a few more tbsp's)

- Preheat oven to 350
- In bowl, combine first 3 ingredients. Set aside.
- Cream butter & sugar until fluffy. Add egg, vanilla & lime zest mix until combined.
- Add 1/3 of the dry ingredients followed by the wet ingredients (milk & Skinnygirl Margarita). Incorporate well after each addition. Continue adding dry and wet mixtures until everything is combined together. Do not over beat the mixture.
- Divide batter into cupcake pan lined with baking cups filling them 2/3 of the way.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 15 minutes.

Lime Buttercream:
1 stick room temp. butter
2 c powdered sugar
juice of one lime

- Cream butter & sugar until smooth.
- Add lime juice until combined.
- Add more sugar if necessary.
- Frost those cupcakes and enjoy skinny bitches!

OMG DO WANT NAO

2011-05-05T12:32:00.001-04:00

They're Nine West and not out 'til "pre-Fall".

Nikki Beach

2011-05-04T13:17:00.006-04:00

I usually hang out with my mom Saturday mornings/afternoons and since my brother Chris(tian), was off from work, we decided to get a little shmancy with it.

My mom doesn't go out of her comfort zone much and usually sticks to places near her house (she's terrified of driving) so whenever we take her to the beach, she gets really giddy. Cute. A little pathetic too considering she only lives 20 minutes away, but cute nonetheless.

My brother suggested Nikki Beach and oddly enough, I had never been. I always thought it was super exclusive but turns out, it isn't! It's right on the beach and it's the perfect pre or post suntanning spot. Drinks are good, food is good and the ambiance is awesome. There's a DJ playing the obligatory "unz, unz, unz" music which I've become a big fan of (it's mandatory in Miami or you get kicked out).

Overpriced? Sure. A little touristy? Of course! But I'm a sucker for lounge beds located directly on the sand and a good mojito.

Lately

2011-05-03T00:34:00.005-04:00

1. Amy was in town this weekend and we got an early start to our morning on Friday with peach & mascarpone stuffed french toast from Icebox Cafe. We then walked on the beach for two hours and I got the gnarliest tan/sunburn in all of my 27 years. It hurts even if my hair falls on it.
2. 3 weeks, 3 weeks, 3 weeks and I'm officially done. I'm so done that I wanted to skip graduation altogether but when I picked up my cap and gown (& that crazy looking sash that makes me feel like Harry Potter), I got a little excited. 3 weeks!
3. Girls night out + sushi at Ra + Scream4. I have a thing for "scary" movies.
4. My new bright orange blazer from Zara. All I need is some big, plastic Chanel earrings and boom, I'm Samantha Jones.
5. All I really want is Krispy Kreme.

Heavenly

2011-04-27T22:37:00.001-04:00

Blue Heaven is the most popular place to go to for breakfast in Key West. & with menu items like lobster eggs benedict with key lime hollandaise (!), surf & turf benedict (filet & lobster) and that amazing, uh-mazing banana bread, I can see why so many people love this cozy place. If I lived in Key West, I'd be a regular here. The atmosphere is so relaxing and...country.

Can you tell I'm completely enamored with Key West? I'm already planning the next trip because I have no more pictures to share with you and I know you're all bummed about that. Or maybe because I heard Blue Heaven's key lime pie is one of the best...

Sloppy Joe's

2011-04-26T23:27:00.001-04:00

Sloppy Joe's is a must. It's been around for over 74 years and the atmosphere is classic Key West. Usually, shorts and flip flops will make you stand out as a tourist but it's the universal uniform here.

Its Duval Street location and live band performances make it the perfect rest stop to escape the Florida sun for a cold drink and of course, a sloppy joe!

Key Lime Pie Crawl

2011-04-26T00:01:00.001-04:00

1. Key Lime Pie Co.
2. Kermit's
3. Key Lime-N-More

Finding the best key lime pie in Key West was a priority for me this weekend. It's my favorite and Blond Giraffe had my heart but not only did they close their Miami store, they've permanently closed the rest of their shops.

I visited three places and they were so similar that I'll spare you all the details. Kermit's was my "favorite". Key Lime Pie Co. and Key Lime-N-More had pretty much the same mediocre pie. It's pie so I'll eat it but these places are definitely no Blond Giraffe.

I'll continue my hunt but if you find yourself in Key West, just go to Mattheessen's and get yourself one of their massive chocolate chip cookies. They're chewy, warm and have the perfect ratio of chip to dough. & if you still have a key lime craving just go to any Publix and get their key lime cheesecake in the bakery section. It's good stuff.

Key West

2011-04-25T12:28:00.006-04:00

I really love Key West. Although it's just three hours away, I've only been a handful of times.

Key West is known for it's lazy atmosphere, infamous Duval Street bar crawls, beachy houses with cute porches and free-roaming chickens and roosters.

The only things on the agenda for the weekend were relaxation, lots of seafood, key lime pie and sun sun sun.

Lately

2011-04-19T00:10:00.000-04:00

1. Chilean Sea Bass Nanbanzuke at Doraku on a rainy Friday night. So good it didn't need carbs.
2. Finally found a bottle of Skinnygirl Margarita. & it was only $11. I'm going to stock my fridge with these babies.
3. They don't look it but these shoes are so damn tall my hamstrings and calves have been sore since Saturday.
4. Friends and I went on a frozen yogurt run. I don't care for frozen yogurt but I had a craving for shutin shweet so I satisfied it with free samples. Score.
5. Cuties and studying for an ecotourism midterm in bed. Zzzz.

Arbetter

2011-04-18T11:03:00.004-04:00

I attended kindergarten through third grade in Passaic, New Jersey. Mario J. Drago #3 school.

Everytime the cafeteria served hot dogs, one of the gym teachers would go up on stage (the cafeteria was also the gym/auditorium - lols) and chant "Hot dogs, hot dogs, wow, wow, wow! Eat 'em up, eat 'em up, chow, chow, chow!" I'm not even kidding. Sometimes students and lunch ladies joined in on the festivities. It's true when they say that the education system in the north is better than the south. When I started 4th grade here in Miami, well, you can imagine my disappointment when hot dog day came around and no one sang me that soothing lullaby throughout my meal.

Complete bullshit.

Anyway. Arbetter's on Bird Rd. has been around for almost 40 years. Do they have the best hot dogs? Fuck no, but this place is a Miami institution. Just look at that radioactive cheese!

Think of me in the depths of your despair.

2011-04-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

I'm in love with this song. You should hear me murder those high notes.

My reputation precedes me

2011-04-13T00:01:00.009-04:00

I very often get asked for restaurant recommendations. I even get asked about restaurants in New York by...people who live there. I find it extremely flattering that people trust me with their mouths.

Here's a list of my favorite non-shitty restaurants with some added must go to spots* if it's your first time in Miami (meaning, if you're from Miami, don't bother. You probably eat this stuff or something similar on a regular basis).

Breakfast/Brunch:
Morgan's - Everything I've had here has made me do the "mmm, mmm" hand on your stomach, eyes closed, happy dance. Get the raspberry pancakes. The french toast and fries are really good too. Expect a wait.
Icebox Cafe - Tiny spot off Lincoln Road popular amongst the gays. Don't come here and get anything traditional. They have really decadent menu items like guava & cream cheese stuffed french toast. I've heard their desserts are all great but I wouldn't know. Sad.
Green Street Cafe - Casual place filled with locals in Coconut Grove. Simple items but they're executed really, really well. Great place to people watch.

Lunch:
Shake Shack - Shack burger. Fries. Key Lime Pie, Oh My concrete. Do it.
Andiamo - Awesome pizza in North Miami. Brooklyn Special (pepperoni/sweet peppers) is my favorite.
El Rey De Las Fritas* - I'll give this place a shoutout for being very true to ~~Cuba~~ Miami. If you're a tourist, go here.
El Palacio De Los Jugos* - or here. Try one of the natural juices.
Latin House Grill - My favorite food truck. Their "muffin tops" (sliders) are the best. If they have their Balls To The Walls (deep fried brownie topped with condensed milk), dude, you're in for a treat. & diarrhea but I promise it's so worth it.

Dinner:
Sustain - I just like this place.
Paquito's - Best Mexican food I've had in Miami. I'm partial to the enchiladas verde.
Pubbelly - This place reminds me of something you'd see in NY. Their menu centers around pork. I dig the dumplings.
Meat Market /Prime 112 /STK - All amazing steakhouses at the beach. Take your pick. Try the lobster and crab cakes at Meat Market, the peanut butter smore's at Prime 112 and the lil big mac's at STK.
Sushi Samba - Loooove this place. Put on your slut shoes and order the tuna tiradito and the red snapper with coconut rice. It's on Lincoln Road but sit inside.
Doraku - Sushi Samba's easy little sister. Cheaper, just as delicious but not as sexy.
Barton G - Not necessarily for the food but for the experience. Their presentations are over the top. Lobster pop-tarts served in a toaster. Martini's smoking with liquid nitrogen. This place is fun and one of a kind.

Dessert!:
Churromania - You can't come to Miami and not have a churro. The street vendors are more authentic but this place lets you fill and drizzle with nutella, guava, caramel, etc. so they win.
Buttercream Cupcakes - My favorite cupcakes in Miami. Vanilla with chocolate frosting or guava.
Karla Bakery* - Cuban bakery. Try my beloved pastelitos de guayaba. You should probably get a croquetta too. Acere.
Cakes by Edda* - Local bakery. They sell their famous wedding cakes by the slice. & they're good. & I want one.

[picture of Morgan's brioche french toast with the lightest, creamiest butter I ever did have]

Lately

2011-04-12T00:01:00.001-04:00

1. An organized house keeps me sane. My latest obsessions are drawer organizers and those skinny, velvet hangers. They help clear up so much space in your closet and everything hangs at the same length! (!!!)
2. Bikes rented by the hour on Lincoln Road. This is now on my to do list.
3. I went to see the Vagina Monologues (in Spanish). It was hysterical. Although, I don't know if I'd recommend you go see it with your mother. Actresses faking orgasms can get awkward. Cringe.
4. To say I'm addicted to Starbuck's mini chocolate/peanut butter cupcakes would be a major, major understatement. I have to talk myself out of turning into every Starbucks I see. I'm not very persuasive on weekends.
5. I gave in to the controversialy ugly Toms. I see them as an investment for the days I have to run (walk...a lot) errands in the city. Exclamation point.

SHACK ATTACK!

2011-04-11T00:01:00.001-04:00

My friend's second language is English. No matter what she's told, she really believes Shake Shack is called "Shack Attack". I find this very fitting.

My Shake Shack cravings come suddenly and must be handled with utmost urgency. So I had a burger and fries for breakfast on Saturday morning...and nobody got hurt.

Apartment Hunting

2011-04-07T01:19:00.007-04:00

I've barely just really started searching and I'm already stressed. It seems almost impossible to find an apartment in a nice area for a decent price. & Craigslist (hello, no fees) should not allow people to make eleventybillion posts of the same apartment. I swear everytime I click on new listings, it's the same crusty apartment over and over again.

Annoying.

All I ask for is a clean kitchen and bathroom and no checkered tiles!

& maybe a walk-in closet

& a washer/dryer

exposed brick (I'm a fan) would be swell

& a freaking doorman would be sweeeet

It's begun. Are you ready?

Lately

2011-04-05T23:58:00.003-04:00

1. Creepy, very tall statue overlooking the dinner table at Wynwood Kitchen & Bar
2. Spent Sunday in the park BBQing, frisbeeing and chocolate caking.
3. Lindt makes really good hazelnut chocolate. Better than Godiva. Sh.
4. Early & relaxing breakfast in Coral Gables at Norman's 180. It was nice to be up and out earlier than the masses and see a different, serene side of this usually busy neighborhood.
5. I've been obsessed with Zara ever since I found out their pants fit me. I'm a midget so it's hard for me to find pants that I can't sweep floors with. These are green. What's up.

The day I eated a butter.

2011-04-04T23:35:00.010-04:00

Yes. Deep fried butter! & a deep fried Snickers.

I turned down the pork parfait, though.

Joey's

2011-03-30T04:39:00.003-04:00

In a momentary lapse of judgment and a little guilt, I lent someone my camera. It's in great hands but I want it back because iPhone pictures are t3h suck. Anyway.

I've become quite the restaurant picking nazi. Luckily, my friends don't mind as long as they know in advance how many "monies" it is.

$ under 15
$$ 15-30
$$$ 30-45
$$$$ 45-65
$$$$$ 65-you did this to yourself you gluttonous fool

I just made that up but that seems about right.

This place is two monies. Except that that prosciutto and mozzarella appetizer was $16. Major ripoff and not nearly as good as Mai Tardi's. Our bill was $45 so you do the math.

Service was awesome and Italian which I appreciated since this is an Italian restaurant. The waiter thought my veal tortelloni took too long so we got free tiramisu. How romantical. Especially since I didn't think the food took long at all. Would I come back here? No.

& I'm afraid no margherita pizza will ever beat Keste's in NYC.

Fort Lauderdale Beach

2011-03-28T01:22:00.006-04:00

Very high temperatures forced many into (onto?) the beach this weekend. We chose to go to Fort Lauderdale to avoid the Ultra Music Festival crowds and traffic at South Beach. My skin is now a more acceptable shade of green due to the much needed vitamin d.

I have an addiction, sir!

2011-03-27T01:38:00.006-04:00

1. I obviously choose wines based on their labels.
2. Fire roasted shrimp. Super delicious, if I do say so myself.
3. Why I probably shouldn't be your gardener.
4. New sheets from West Elm waiting to be spruced up with some throw pillows.
5. Mini peanut butter cupcakes from Starbucks. The frosting is the best consistency and tastes just like diabetes. Highly addictive.

The pictures on the post below were taken with my old Canon. Dude, what a difference! This makes me happy. I'm off to brunch. Have a happy Sunday!

La Sandwicherie

2011-03-22T01:11:00.007-04:00

I either got the wrong menu item or played it all wrong by going to La Sandwicherie while sober. I had the chicken salad on a croissant with a Miami Sunset smoothie. Meh, not enough chicken, too much salad. I made the mistake of getting their French vinaigrette which I'm pretty sure has horseradish in it. I don't think there is a flavor in this world that I hate more than horseradish.

The sandwich was good and the ingredients were really fresh but it wasn't 5 stars on Yelp good. Maybe 2.5. I would say I'd give La Sandwicherie another shot because it's a huge local favorite in Miami Beach but with Shake Shack a few blocks away, I highly doubt that.

28

2011-03-21T01:28:00.006-04:00

Celebrated Boots birthday with wonderful friends, steak and delicious cake from Edda's at Hillstone, the restaurant formerly known as Houstons.

I was a lot annoyed that after an hour and a half wait, we were told our party wouldn't be seated together but Boots had a great time and that's all that really mattered.

First & First Southern Baking Co.

2011-03-17T23:56:00.007-04:00

This is a cute breakfast/lunch spot if you happen to find yourself in downtown because you suddenly realized you need to buy gold by the pound or you know, if you work there or whatever.

If the Eau de Hobo won't make you lose your appetite, sit outside. You're sure to see some characters.

& wishing a big happy birthday to my Boots! Can't wait to celebrate with you and a big Hawaiian rib-eye tonight.

1st&1st is located on 1st & 1st. Isn't that something?

mai tardi

2011-03-17T00:01:00.004-04:00

It was late Sunday night and I had spent about 6 hours helping Raul pack up his belongings (he's leaving Brickell and heading to Doral). I use the term "helping" loosely since it was more like laying on the couch and taking advantage of his wifi while occasionally looking up to aggressively suggest he throw out old clothes he'd been hoarding since high school. He may have even had a pair of these lying around too. Shit is serious. We needed a break from the ugly and were hungry so we ventured to Mai Tardi.

I decided I liked this place upon arrival. It's in the sleek Design District and the outside seating is romantic without really trying to be. Service blew but I'm oddly patient with waiters. Waiters and old people. That's it.

We had:
Caipiwi - I like bubbles and I like kiwi.
Prosciutto e Mozzarella - You can't screw this up if you tried.
Gnocchi al Ragu de Ossobucco - Very filling. Nice taste but I wouldn't order it again.
Bistecchina alla Griglia - Not the best skirt steak but I think I've begun to accept polenta now.

Great location, delicious drinks, decent pricing and $3 valet.

Word.

El Rey De Las Fritas

2011-03-16T00:01:00.010-04:00

I've lived here 17 years and only recently thought to myself, "What proper South Miami resident has never had a Cuban frita?"

I'm not gonna lie, I was a little put off by the meat being such a bright red but I told myself to stop being a jackass and enjoy it. It was good and I loved the crunch from the potato sticks and the fact that they use toasty Cuban bread but it was nothing out of this world. However, the mango shake was the perfect accompaniment and hit the spot.

I prefer the Dominican version of the burger over the Cuban one. I also prefer a Dominican man over a Cuban one but that's a whole other story.

I do love pastelitos de guayaba though.

El Rey De Las Fritas

Morgan's: Revisited

2011-03-15T00:01:00.004-04:00

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day but either I'm up way too early and the mere thought of eating at 5:30am makes me want to barf or I'm stuck at school with shitty options like pizza flavored Combos and decide to skip it altogether.

Enter the weekends where it's totally acceptable if not highly encouraged to sleep in and drag your lazy ass to brunch. God bless America!

I ordered the smoked salmon eggs benedict this time around and we got an order of raspberry flatcakes for the table. Smartest thing we did. If you saw us eating, you'd think we weren't taught any manners. We attacked those things like savages (savages, savages, barely even human!). Please order these, text me, don't call me - I hate talking on the phone, and tell me you're in love with them too. It'll make my day.

A whole lotta nothing

2011-03-14T00:01:00.003-04:00

Can you believe that after 8 days of not having internet/cable, when I finally got it back I got a virus? & now that that is taken care of, my router decided to die? If it's not one thing it's another!

I haven't really been up to much though. My weekdays revolve around school, starving myself and scouring Craigslist for decent apartments in the upper west and upper east side. My weekends are usually limited to not starving myself, crossing things off my "To do in Miami" list (mainly food related, of course) and spending time with my loves. My days are very predictable but I'm enjoying it. I'm trying to soak up as much Miami before I give it the ol' boot. That's right, New York City is less than 3 months away! It's surreal and scary and exciting and...scary and exciting.

Jimmy'z Kitchen

2011-03-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

What better way to celebrate Dominican Republic's independence day than by going for some mofongo at a Puerto Rican restaurant?!

I'll tell you what, going to my mom's. Her mofongo beats all. She uses the perfect amount of garlic. But she didn't make any. So Jimmy'z it was. & had it not been for that guava cheesecake, my tastebuddies and I would have been very annoyed. My friend said their churrasco was "bomb" though.

South Beach Wine & Food Festival: Best Thing I Ever Ate @ The Beach

2011-02-28T00:49:00.008-05:00

Picture overload, I know, but I didn't want to spare you any fabulous detail. No pictures or words can describe but I'll try so let's continue on to the highlights/lowlights segment of the show, shall we?

Highlights

+ Hosted at the Ritz-Carlton on South Beach. Literally, on the beach. Now as a born and somewhat raised South Miami-an, I know the truth...sand is your enemy, not your friend but with the perfect ocean breeze flowing through the tents, you couldn't help but appreciate the whimsical effect it had.
+ I think everyone was drunk or on drugs. Everyone was so smiley and friendly. A conga line was started. It was all very hippy-ish.
+ Godiva upon arrival. Unlimited. All night long. Hello.
+ KC & The Sunshine Band. I had no idea all those 70's hits belonged to them! They definitely brought their A game.
+ Iron Chef Marc Forgione's pierced nipple flirting with Angie.
+ Beautiful people everywhere. & then there was Anne Burrell. Yikes.

My Faves

+ Claire Robinson's chocolate & peanut butter s'mores from Prime 112. Holy shit, these were amazing. I had about 4 and had I brought a larger purse, I'd be having one right now.
+ db bistro moderne's croque monsieurs. Melted cheese. I was done for.
+ Ceviche with Pop Rocks. POP ROCKS!
+ Some sort of creamy ravioli from Casa d'Angelo.
+ Guess what, Skinnygirl Margarita's are actually really, really good!
+ Cake pops from Joelle's Desserts.

Lowlights

+ Champagne ran out. That's shitty.
+ I didn't get to meet Bethenny Frankel. I can no longer go on living.

Angie and I had a delicious time. Who's joining us for the wine & food fest in NY in October?

I'm tired. Goodnight.

Intuition

2011-02-26T01:06:00.002-05:00

A map is more unreal
Than where you've been
Or how you feel
And it's impossible to tell
How important someone was
And what you might have missed out on
And how it might have changed it all

And did I, did I...
And did I, did I miss out on you?

-- Feist, Intuition

Spartacus: Blood and Sand

2011-02-23T00:17:00.003-05:00

The weather in Miami has been pretty much perfect for the past couple of days but I've been holed up watching this awesome show. I'm usually not into series about historical anything and Gladiator was 3 hours of my life I want back but man, I'm obsessed with this show. It has a lot of nudity and unnecessary, excessive use of the word "cock", which makes me really uncomfortable but that aside, the writing is genius. You can watch it on Netflix's Instant Play. Give it until episode 3 to pass judgment. I promise you it's so good.

& um, is that not the most beautiful human being? I'm pretty sure it is.

Por Fin

2011-02-22T00:01:00.003-05:00

Por Fin is spanish for "a Groupon popped up and I finally had an excuse to visit".

We ordered all the things people have raved about like the huevos por fin, pa am tomaquet, costilla de res and Chilean sea bass but were disappointed.

For what it's worth, it's a beautiful restaurant, the service was on point and their white sangria was deliciously refreshing.

My cousins are the best.

2011-02-21T00:01:00.002-05:00

My cousin Rosanna and her husband, Manny baptized their son, Andres (the little yummy one) and had a "little" afterparty at their amazing new home in their equally amazing backyard. My cousin Sixto Jose joked that all we needed were some hammocks and Sade playing in the background. See where I get it from? Fun fact: Rosanna is the one who got me into Sade. I was like 10 and she'd play Cherish The Day repeatedly.

& by "little" I mean they had nice, happy people serving coconut shrimp, cod fritters, tostones rellenos, paella and Dominican cake all night. That's what I'm talking about.

Food aside, it was one of the far and few times we got to get together as a family aside of major holidays/birthdays and it was the best time. My stomach literally hurt from laughing so hard.

We're already planning the next cousins gathering.

And, uh, we demand we have waiters at every family function from now on.

Pictures #1 & 7 via aanaizphotography.

Cupid

2011-02-17T00:23:00.005-05:00

For Valentine's Day, I bought my dad a heart shaped box filled with Snickers from CVS.

Around 9:30pm, he shows up at my door, holding that bouquet.

He's cute.

I was without internets for over a week but it's back and that doesn't suck.

STK

2011-02-15T00:01:00.003-05:00

Celebrated Valentine's day this Saturday at STK at the Gansevoort Hotel. They had a badass DJ playing everything from These Boots Were Made For Walkin' to Soldier Of Love. My kind of party!

We had wagyu burgers with truffles, 5 mac & cheese, parmesan truffle fries, filet with bordelaise sauce and pink elegance cocktails. It was a fun night. I request a repeat.

Labor of Love

2011-02-14T11:32:00.005-05:00

I'm talking French macarons, people! I've been wanting to make these for a while but knew they were a task. What better reason to make them than for my valentines (plural, mhm)?

They're not the prettiest macarons but they were tasty.

Happy 14th, lovers! Do something nice for someone who deserves it! & call your mother!

Morgan's

2011-02-08T00:01:00.002-05:00

Did I make you hungry? 'Cause I made me hungry.

Before heading to my cousins baptism, Amy (whom, I'm sorry if I've confused you but does not live in Miami. She just flies down for work almost twice a month) & I played catch up over brunch.

Morgan's was fantastic. Pastries & danishes to start, raspberry flat cakes, turkey sausage, "voluptuous" grilled cheese and apple pie for dessert. Everything was so fresh. This place beat's Balans and Michael's Genuine, for surrrre. Can't wait to go back for the smoked salmon eggs benedict & beignets.

XLV

2011-02-07T17:21:00.005-05:00

Not pictured:

Me winning my first sports bet ever (my nails look black but they are green!). I haven't collected yet but I will. I WILL.

The impressive amount of ritz cracker/pepperoni/swiss cheese little sammiches and chips/french onion dip I ate. Yay, football!

The lol's that were had because of this commercial:

I lose it at 0:37 & 0:53.

I had such a great weekend. I hope you did.

Good Stuff

2011-02-05T00:26:00.004-05:00

1. I had a very tense week. I had a huge project due that I was stressing over buuuut it's done and now I can breathe. I bought these tulips mid-week to try to make myself feel better (I wasn't just stressed - I was freaking the f out). It didn't really work but at least they're nice to wake up to.
2. Cookbooks I unfortunately haven't had the time to look through. Amy got me The Good Stuff Eatery cookbook (because she witnessed my Spike crush-induced shaky hands at the NY Wine & Food Fest and because she wants burgers) and the other two I won through twitter because I like raspberry jam. Literally, I tweeted "I like raspberry jam" and BOOM, two cookbooks arrived at my door. I'm telling you, you need to hop on that twitter train, fools.
3. My dad told me he loves cinnamon rolls so I made him some. I didn't eat not one. I didn't even lick the icing off the spoon. I'm very proud of myself.
4. My step-father (Whoa. Weird.) celebrated a birthday and is a fan of my cranberry cake (you'll have to take my word and trust me when I say it's delicious although I realize it's quite ugly) so I surprised him at dinner. Now the waiters at Macaroni Grill (it's his favorite? and I dig their bread and crayons) are fans as well. Yes, I definitely bake my way into people's hearts. It works.

Have a nice weekend! I'm looking forward to a relaxing lunch date, some extended family time and rooting for the Packers simply because I like their name.

Sometimes I get tired of talking about myself.

2011-02-01T20:27:00.008-05:00

Some pictures from my weekend.

& Happy February! Will you be my valentine? xo

"You look like a pumpkin, bitch."

2011-01-25T11:14:00.005-05:00

Green Monster Update:

It's been a week since I started drinking this daily. The good news is, I only taste banana now. No funk. & I crave it.

My skin is definitely smoother and softer. But, the above may be helping as well. Why didn't anyone tell me facial sponges are so effective?! In case no one has told you, I'm telling you! They instantly make your skin so soft & they're dirt cheap.

As far as energy, I really never lacked energy to begin with so I haven't noticed a big difference. But I do feel better overall.

So I'll continue drinking this until...I don't. & I'll continue to update you on any changes.

*The above quote is possibly the most random yet most hilarious comeback I've heard.

Year of the Burger

2011-01-25T00:55:00.003-05:00

I was hoping to make 2011 year of the champagne but burgers are once again in the lead.

Burger & Beer Joint is good. Really good. So good I waited 2 hours for this turkey burger and didn't even punch myself in the face.

Go. But not when a Heat game is on. People like to sit and shoot the shit after they're done with their meals and pretend they don't see you giving them dirty looks and growling at them.

January is almost over. Hooray.

2011-01-24T16:18:00.006-05:00

1. I used to read a lot once upon a time before the internets ruined my life. So I've made it a goal to read at least one book a month. I spent Friday night in bed with Water for Elephants. I finished it. I loved it. & the guy who is going to play August in the movie (watch the trailer now) is gonna nail that role. He was a badass in Inglourious Basterds.
2. Delicious churrasco from an awesome Colombian place [Al Carbon] on Coral Way. Their burgers are one of my personal favorites.
3. Went back and forth between liking this nail color (it's Essie Turquoise & Caicos) and really hating it.
4. Checked out a new cupcake bakery in Coconut Grove called House of Frost with Angeliki after our movie date. I got the guava & cream cheese. Meh.
5. Going through a phase where I don't care to brush my hair, much less take the time to straighten it.

Heat vs. Hawks

2011-01-20T00:01:00.003-05:00

I had plans to go to the gym last night when Boots called and said he had tickets to the Heat game. Cardio or live game? Couscous or greasy chicken tenders with french fries? Boots or gym weirdos that moan passionately while they workout? It was a tough decision.

I kind of want to be Lebron James. I want groupies. But the Heat lost by 4 points and I won a free taco from Taco Bell due to a missed free throw. So I guess the joke is on him, really.

Kobe!

Yeah, baby, I like it raw.

2011-01-19T00:23:00.007-05:00

That's right. I've joined the green monster movement. & as you can see, Homer isn't happy about it. If you have no idea what I'm talking about go here.

If you're like me and don't like clicking links, this is basically a smoothie with a buttload of health benefits. The main ones that stood out for me were increased energy, cancer & cardiovascular disease prevention & (hello) glowing skin. There are tons of different recipes but the one I used is as follows:

1 c vanilla almond milk
2 c raw organic spinach
1 banana
1 tbsp flax seeds
ice

Now here's my honest opinion. I like spinach but I usually prefer it drowned in vinaigrette so I was very skeptical. I thought it would give me the runs. It didn't. I thought I'd have flax seeds stuck in my teeth. I did. That being said, I don't think it's a delicious smoothie but you really can't taste the spinach at all. It tastes like bananas mixed with a little funk. But that funk is what makes it so darn good for you so I'm forcing myself to get used to it and incorporate it into my daily routine (along with trying to drink 72oz of water).

I just started today so obviously I don't feel any drastic changes but I had it for breakfast and I'm usually staaaarving way before lunchtime and this kept me nice and full all morning. I'll keep you guys posted!

Nirala Sweet House

2011-01-17T22:17:00.006-05:00

My friend Shamsa (whom is from Pakistan and whom is hilarious) invited me to lunch with her to her favorite Pakistani restaurant in Plantation. I figured since I had never had Pakistani food in my 27 years, it was due time. They're known for their sweets but I fancied the chicken tikka masala and garlic naan bread. I could eat naan all day.

Nirala.

I've got the January blues

2011-01-07T00:01:00.009-05:00

Insert sad face here ------>

Oh, well! On to bigger and better things, dears.

Hopefully, these ornaments will see their first real snowfall this December.