An evening dining at Tablao is not just great dining it is a unique experience that will make you feel that you are in Spain.  Tablao is located on Washington Street in  South Norwalk  Ct. and is part of the exciting SONO dining and entertainment scene.   This urban chic restaurant evokes an intimate feel with its exposed brick walls, dark floors,  and the hostess stand crafted from wine barrels.  The decor creates a touch of Spain with modern  urban touches to create a comfortable dining venue.

The menu is a combination of Spanish Mediterranean influences of both land and sea offerings.  There are a nice assortment of tapas (small plates), entrees of fresh seafood and beef, as well as traditional family style paellas.   There is also a wine bar with an extensive selection of wines from around the globe with emphasis on wines from Spain and South America.  Cool cocktails and craft beers are also available.  Sangria both white and red is a favorite and can be ordered by the pitcher for your table.

I dined at Tablao on a Thursday evening and chose from a menu two starters, paella to share and a pitcher of white sangria.   I chose the white sangria which was refreshing and had delightful citrus notes.

My first starter was the Gambas ala Plancha , grilled shrimp with chickpea puree and vegetables in a subtle vinaigrette .  A mouth-watering dish that  and a pleasant presentation as well.

The next appetizer I would recommend was the Hanger Steak in a green chimichurri sauce.  A nice flavorful dish as the sauce perfectly complimented the beef.   There are so many great choices on the menu it was hard to pick just two.

The main entrée I selected was the Paella Mediterranean de Mariscos.  A large beautifully displayed dish of lobster, clams, mussels, scallops, shrimp, and fish of the day with rice.  This paella stays true to its Spanish roots and was a perfectly crafted dish with generous amounts of seafood.

For a real treat, Thursday evenings include Spanish style entertainment with an authentic Flamenco dancer and Spanish guitarist.  This performance was a wonderful addition to our evening and really infuses Tablao with a true feel of passion.  For a moment I was not in South Norwalk, but was transported to a city in Spain or in South America.  For a magical of evening of great food and entertainment, please visit Tablao.

Tablao   Wine Bar and Restaurant

86 Washington Street South Norwalk Ct

tel. 203.939.9602            website:    http://www.tablaosono.com

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The 2017 Greenwich Concours D’Elegance  held on June 3rd and 4th was a wonderful event for the automotive fan.  Since its founding in 1996 by Bruce and Genia Wennerstrom the Greenwich Concours is one of the most important automotive collector events in the country.   The 2017 edition of the Concours was a wonderful weekend filled with great cars in the perfect setting.

Saturday June 3rd featured cars from American manufactures as well as a special display of custom built cars which were very popular with the guests.  Also on the show field were classic motorcycles,  cars used in the actual Cannonball Run race back in the 1970s, and fantastic display of children’s cars.  There was something for everyone.  The setting for the Concours is right on Greenwich Harbor in Roger Sherman Baldwin Park and is the perfect backdrop for the display of fine automobiles.

Custom built cars were recognized this year for the contribution to the hobby.  There were numerous entrants including the show stopping T-Bird custom which attracted a large crowd.  Also present was a hot rod built by Steve Moal and owned by Wayne Carrini of Chasing Classic Cars and was the subject of one of the shows episodes.

Bonhams auction house also runs a wonderful  automobile auction on Sunday in the auction tent, and viewing of the cars is open to the public on Saturday.   On Sunday there were an amazing assortment of vehicles at the auction from a 1973 Volkswagen Thing, to  a Ferrari Dino to a beautiful  1971 Alfa Romeo Montreal.  There were cars in all price ranges and something for everyone in the collecting hobby, not just high end cars.

On Sunday June 4th, the cars on display are from  international manufacturers and it was indeed a fantastic display of British, Italian, French and German cars.  There was also an impressive line up of vintage Bugatti’s on display along the waterfront.  Despite the threat of rain on Sunday, the show field was filled with impressive cars and guests.   The Auction kicked off under the tent at noon and there was a full house of bidders.

The Greenwich Concours is not just a car show.  It is an event that celebrates the finest in automobiles.  There are cars on the show field that you have probably never seen outside a magazine or book.  A truly impressive gathering that should not be missed.  Americares is the charity that benefits from the proceeds of the Concours.

The Concours is a yearly event and  one you should put on your calendar for next June.

Greenwich Concours D’Elegance

web:  http://www.greenwichconcours.com

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Sun Raven in Bedford NY is a healing and wellness center that is situated in a lovely setting that truly soothes the soul and mind.  This is a very special space for those seeking to experience, study and live a whole being vision of health and wellness.  Sun Raven is home to Slow Medicine, a holistic approach to living created and founded by Dr. Michael Finkelstein and Therapist Robin Queen Finkelstein.

The philosophy of Slow Medicine is to look at life through a whole systems approach.  Understanding that everything is interconnected in life including food, the physical body, mental, community, life purpose, work, and our relationships with others, the natural world and the divine.

Slow Medicine teaches one to relax and slow down by returning the body and mind to balance by learning about essential nutrients,connectivity to friends and spending thoughtful time in a tranquil pastoral setting that is Sun Raven.  The lovely grounds, gardens and animals such as horses, a llama and a peacock create this relaxes atmosphere.   There are interesting workshops available from farm-to-table meals featuring food grown at Sun Raven, special events, and a unique CSA (community supported agriculture)  vegetable program where you actively help maintain the vegetable crops.   Here the whole family can participate in coming together and grow their own organic food.  This is a fun an unique way to strengthen family ties and is part of the balance to the Slow Medicine approach, including food, community and connecting with others and the natural world.

Dr. Finkelstein and his wife Robin are present onsite to offer an array of services, programs, therapy and counseling.   The grounds are maintained by master gardener Xenia D’Ambrosi who educates and assists the garden and CSA members.  This special CSA is a hands-on farming experience and creates a wonderful sense of community while helping one in connecting back to the natural world.

Visit the Sun Raven website for additional information.

Sun Raven

Bedford NY      tel. 914-218-3113

web  http://slowmedicine.org

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A fun event is coming to Hilltop Hanover Farm in Yorktown Heights,NY.  Come on out for Farm Fest on Saturday June 3, 2017 !  Farm Fest is a local artisan’s fair, with food, children’s games, tractor rides, hikes, and farm tours. There will be organic seedlings for sale and the farm stand will open its doors for the season! Admission is free – but there is a suggested donation of $5/car.

Hilltop Hanover Farm is a real treasure right here in Westchester County. The Farm and Environmental Center is a nonprofit dedicated to the development and advancement of sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, community education, and accessible food systems for all.  A minimum 10% of produce grown is donated to food pantries and soup kitchens.

Hilltop Hanover Farm is a nonprofit working farm and environmental education center managed by the Friends of Hilltop Hanover Farm.   Visitors to the farm welcomed and encouraged to take advantage of fresh organically grown produce at the farmstand, our pick-your-own vegetable gardens, to visit with our farmers and animals, and attend special events and classes.  Enjoy a picnic onthe scenic property and hike the wonderful woodland trails on the other side of Hanover Street.  A really great place to visit and a fantastic resource for people looking for locally sourced and sustainable food.

See you at the Fest !

Rain Date: June 4th

Contact Info:

info@hilltophanoverfarm.org

(914)962-2368

Hilltop Hanover Farm

1271 Hanover St

Yorktown Heights, NY 10598

web  http://hilltophanoverfarm.org

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The ultimate car lovers event, The Greenwich Concours D’ Elegance returns Saturday June 3rd and Sunday June 4th to Roger Sherman Baldwin Park on the harbor in Greenwich Ct.   This is one of the premier automotive events in the nation and a must visit for car lovers.

On Saturday the Concours will feature on the show field  a fine selection of American made cars and motorcycles.  There will also be  a special Hot Rod and Custom  class of cars as well as a special display of children’s cars.

Also on Saturday, visitors will be able to tour the Bonhams Auction tent  where many fine automobiles can be inspected and viewed prior to the auction which takes place on Sunday.

On Sunday is the Concours  International featuring fabulous cars from foreign manufacturers.  There will also be a display of cars from the American Bugatti Club featuring over 20 Bugatti’s as well as a display of racecars from the Lime Rock Historic Festival.

Also on Sunday the Bonhams auction will take place under the auction tent.  A separate fee is required to attend the auction.  If you plan to bid at the auction you will need to make arrangements with Bonhams in advance.

Both days will feature  a display of new cars from Lincoln, BMW , Tesla, Jaguar, Ferrari, Pagani, Alfa Romeo, Mc Laren, Maserati and more!

The Greenwich Concours is one of the premier automotive events in the country and this year is the same weekend as the fantastic Greenwich International Film Festival so there will be plenty to do and see that weekend.  See you at the Concours !

Tickets in advance: $30 (ONE DAY)  $50 (BOTH DAYS)   Prices higher at the door.  VIP tickets available, see website for details

Greenwich Concours D’Elegance

Roger Sherman Baldwin Park,  Greenwich Ct

For tickets and information :      http://www.greenwichconcours.com

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The Greenwich International Film Festival returns again to our area on June 1st to June 4th 2017 in Greenwich Ct.  The festival now in its third year brings to our area a wonderful slate of over 50 films, panel discussions, and parties.  There is something for everyone in this year’s festival including documentaries, feature films narrative short films, Connecticut short films and children’s features.  The Greenwich International Film Festival has received national attention for its quality of programming and emphasis on social impact and bringing awareness to important subjects. There are also discussions after some of the films with some of the writers and directors of the features.

Greenwich International Film Festival (GIFF) is a non-profit organization that hosts a world class film festival each June, and supporting events throughout the year. It was founded to bridge the worlds of film, finance, and philanthropy. The Festival’s mission is to provide filmmakers with the opportunity to showcase their work with the goal of finding financing for future projects. Additionally, GIFF harnesses the power of film to serve the greater good by supporting charity partners with festival proceeds.

The 3rd annual Changemaker Gala will take place on Thursday, June 1, 2017.  The Changemaker Awards honor artists who have used their public platform and the power of film to further positive social change.  This year,  Renee Zellweger and Christy Turlington Burns will be honored for their charity work. . The June 1^st Changemaker event, presented by CuisinArt Resorts & Residences and ALS FindingACure, will include a cocktail reception at Betteridge followed by a black tie dinner at L’Escale in Greenwich,CT.

Actress, Activist and Humanitarian, Sophia Bush will present the Best Social Impact Film Award at Opening Night Party on Friday June 2^nd. This prize will be awarded to one film across all categories that promotes social change.

Also on Friday night June 3rd, the following  the Opening Night Film Premiere, enjoy a fantastic party featuring a concert by Flo Rida, film awards, cocktails and more, at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich.  This is a great event not to miss.

We are so fortunate to live so close to a world class festival such as the Greenwich International Film Festival. This is a great opportunity to take advantage of great films, panel discussions, and parties that emphasize social impact and awareness of issues that concern our world.

For a list of all the films and events as well as ticket information please go to the website below.   See you at the Movies !!

Greenwich International Film Festival

web:  http://www.greenwichfilm.org                          tel:  203.717.1800

GIFF Box Office is now open at
22 Railroad Avenue.
Monday- Saturday- 11AM-6PM
Sunday- 12PM-4:00PM

 

 

 

 

The annual Taste of Ridge Hill is returning for a its second year!.  On Thursday  May 18th 2017 from 6pm to 9pm, attendees will be able to visit 9 of Ridge Hill’s restaurants and sample foods from each eatery.  A really fun evening.

Restaurants that will be participating in this event are El Balón, Angelo’s Family Style Italian, Lefteris Gyro, Elevation Burger, Texas de Brazil, Yard House, Little Buddha, The Cheesecake Factory and Havana Central.  This year attendees will enjoy wine and spirit samples from HB Liquors and all guests will receive a swag bag from Whole Food Markets.

Attendees will move from restaurant to restaurant during the evening enjoying great food samples.  Of course there is all the great shopping for which Ridge Hill is known.

Tickets to the event must be purchased in advance!  Tickets are $34.95 per person and each ticket entitles the bearer to food and beverage served at each of the participating eateries.  Guests must be age 21 or older.   A portion of sales will go to benefit the Yonkers YMCA

Purchase your tickets here: : www.ridgehill.com/info/tasteofrh

 

Check-in and complimentary valet parking located in Town Square near Angelo’s restaurant. Guests who would like to come early and shop before the event may self-park and receive validation at check-in.

Ridge Hill Shopping Center

I Ridge Hill Blvd  Yonkers NY    tel.  914.207.2900

web http://www.ridgehill.com/info/tasteofrh

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The river towns of the Hudson Valley have been undergoing a renaissance in the last decade.  New energy, art galleries, craft brew pubs ,distilleries,  and great restaurants are helping lead the way.  Embracing the natural scenic beauty of the river and the great architecture found in these towns, the revival of  places such as Peekskill, Beacon, Hudson and Newburgh is great for visitors and especially for foodies.

With its waterfront location on the Hudson River and panoramic views of the Hudson Highlands, Newburgh is part of the dining revival in the region.  Front Street has attracted many fans with its numerous restaurants, bars and river walk.   Just one block up the hill from the river is an excellent recent entry into the restaurant scene, the Liberty Street Bistro.   Situated in a historic 19th century brick building, Liberty Street Bistro could easily be in a  hip neighborhood in Brooklyn.   Across the street is a park and is the site of Washington’s Headquarters.

Liberty Street Bistro takes you on a culinary journey with its blend of new  American cuisine with hints of French and Italian influences.  Local Hudson Valley products are sourced when possible.   The restaurant which opened in 2016 features clean modern decor, neutral color palette, Edison bulb lighting, exposed brick walls  and dark leather seating.

The Chef/Owner Michael Kelly brings years of experience to the restaurant including his training at the Culinary Institute of America, and stints at top New York City eateries.

The dinner menu offers diners the choice of a 2,3 or 4 courses selected from the unique menu.  All the food is made fresh in house, with a lovely presentation on interesting dishes and pottery.

We started off the meal with some cocktails from the bar and enjoyed the Mango Margarita and the Liberty Street Mule, which is  a variation of the Mule and uses blueberry puree and topped with fresh blueberry.  A nice twist on the Mule.

Starters: We sampled two items including the Pemaquid Point Oysters from Maine (delicious) and the Chilled Carrot Soup with Tarragon oil, which was an interesting dish.

To get a feel for the whole menu we  continued with Course 1 from the four course menu.   The Roasted Beet Salad was excellent with fresh beets, mache, creme fraische, and candied walnuts.    The other selection was the Crab and Asparagus, a soft crab served breaded, with asparagus and a poached egg.  A creative combination of ingredients.  The crab is small so it will not fill you up.

Course 2:  Chorizo Imbarcazioni which is light pasta boats filled with chorizo and accompanied by marscarpone cheese, tomato foam and  Nasturtium flowers.  A really great pasta dish that is not filling, and the unique combination of ingredients make this dish one of my favorites of the evening.  We also tasted the Wild Mushroom Risotto with 3 types of mushrooms (maitake,oyster and brown beech) and it was bursting with flavor.

Course 3:  for the main course we ordered the Taglatella al Frutti di Mare,  pasta with octopus, mussels, clams with broccoli rabe .  It was served in a unique black oval bowl.  Though not a overly large portion, the Italian influence was evident and the seafood was fresh and delish .   We also ordered the Triple Seared Beef with a Yukon potato gratin, roasted veggies in an au jus gravy.    A well presented and filling dish.

Course 4.   If you opt for dessert (and you should!) there are some nice items including the Pear Tart with pear  sorbet, almonds, and pistachio .  A lovely dessert and with an appealing presentation.  We also sampled the Profiteroles, a delicate and soft blend of mint creme  anglaise and chocolate ice cream.  So good !

The food is inventive, fresh and tasty with small plates so you can enjoy many of the great tastes that each course offers.  Liberty Street Bistro is a fine addition to the river towns dining scene in the Hudson Valley and you should put in on your dining list.

PRICES:  2 COURSES: $36,  3 COURSES: $49 4 COURSES: $61   COCKTAILS:  $13-15  WINE BY THE GLASS $8-13

LIBERTY STREET BISTRO

97 LIBERTY STREET  NEWBURGH NY     tel  845.562.3900

web; http://libertystreetbistro.com

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