Local resident and star of stage and screen, Chazz Palminteri will be appearing at the Saw Mill Club in Mt Kisco February 2nd from 7-9pm for a very special evening.  Chazz will be telling his own tale about his career and his talk will be followed by an audience Q & A as well as a meet and greet following the talk.    Wine and refreshments will be available.

Chazz Palminteri has starred  in numerous motion pictures including Bronx Tale, Analyze This, Yonkers Joe, Bullets over Broadway, and many more.  He has also had numerous roles in television over his career.   His play Bronx Tale was made into a movie starring himself and Robert DeNiro.  Bronx Tale has recently opened as a musical on Broadway.

The evening is  a benefit for the renovation of the Bedford Playhouse in Bedford New York which will reopen as a theater and a focal point for the community.

For tickets to this event and more information:

http://www.bedfordplayhouse.org/events/

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Room 112 is the latest edition to the growing and vibrant nightlife scene on Washington Street in Norwalk.  This new SoNo lounge joins the cool landscape of SoNo’s restaurants, bars and art galleries.

Isaac Patrick Camoro is the owner and visionary  behind this new hot spot and he brings his 20 years of expertise in blending unique and exciting cocktails and is considered by many to be on the cutting edge of the cocktail craft.

The bar is a real hip urban space and there is a blend of styles.  The soft lighting, pool table, eclectic mix of soft couches, and faux fire place  give the atmosphere of underground lounge converging with a cool rock influenced decor including posters of Mick Jagger and Prince on the exposed brick walls.There is a swirling light show, a dj booth and a raised stage(more like a perch)  for live music.  The bar is interesting and custom made and is bathed in violet light which creates a special ambiance.

Downstairs is a separate party space with another bar, seating area, games and darts.  It can be rented out for special parties.

The mixologists and the cocktails are the star of the show with some fascinating concoctions which blend top liquors, aromatics, mixers and herbs.   The results are quite remarkable and visually interesting.    Some of our favorites were the Pinacita, the Havana and the Casa de Amor.  Check out their website for all the ingredients that go into their special cocktails.  They will even blend a cocktail of your own choosing if you cannot find one on the menu.

Small plates will be available through Room 112s partners Harbor Harvest.  If you are looking for a fun and unique place to hang with friends or a date and sip great cocktails, check out Room 112 in SoNo.

Room 112

112 Washington St  Norwalk ,Ct.   tel> 203.939.1347

web: room112sono.com

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5 Spices Tea House and Restaurant is a new Asian fusion restaurant that has just opened in Mt. Kisco and features a menu featuring cuisine from China, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. The eatery also features a wide range of teas that compliment the menu. The interior is modern with Asian design influences.

Starters:  We sampled a few of the items from the Starters menu including some of the soups.   We ordered the Udon Noodle Soup with chicken which is quite large and could be a meal in itself or shared.  The broth was light and not salty like so many  Asian soups.  The dish was filled with chicken and noodles and was quite satisfying.  It is also available in Wonton and Shrimp.

Another starter we tried was Satay Chicken and Satay Beef which is a Malaysian dish that features grilled meat cooked on a wood skewer. It was cooked to perfection and was very tasty. A nice portion that again can be enjoyed alone or shared.

Our last starter was a light and delicious choice of the Lettuce Wrap with Chicken.  The fresh crisp lettuce leaf  cradles the tasty soft chicken to create a nice light appetizer.  The dish also can be ordered with Roast Pork or Duck.

Lettuce Wrap with Chicken

Main Course:  To get a feel for the menu we sampled a variety of items from Chinese classics to some items we have never had before.    The Pad Thai Noodles with Chicken was a great choice with soft spicy noodles, veggies and a slice of fresh lime.  This was an interesting interpretation of the classic Thai dish that was pleasantly not too spicy, so feel free to indulge.

Pad Thai Noodles

Another interesting choice was the Tofu Clay Pot  with fried tofu and mixed veggies that is cooked and served in a clay pot.  The dish was bubbling and quite hot as it was placed on the table.  It was delicious with the tofu being mild yet flavorful and soft with a light crispy edge.

Tofu Clay Pot

As a seafood lover I could not resist trying the Seafood Delight a wonderful dish of fresh scallops, prawns,squid and stir fried with asparagus, green beans, mushrooms and carrots.  A nice healthy dish that will satisfy the seafood lover.

Seafood Delight.

For the traditional Chinese cuisine lover, many of your favorites are here including Sesame Chicken served in a brown sauce with broccoli and LoMein.   LoMein, Fried Rice and Stir Fried Udon is all available with a choice of veggies, chicken, beef, or shrimp.

I would be remiss if I did not mention the wonderful selection of teas available.  We sampled the Jasmine green tea with a soft bouquet and smooth healthy taste.  We also tried the Mango green tea which was sweet and flavorful and did not require a sweetener. There is a variety of wonderful teas and juices on the menu to sample.

The menu is full of fresh, healthy choices including salads, steamed veggies, and of course a full menu of classic dishes from various areas of Asia.   5 Spices is a nice addition to the dining scene in downtown Mt. Kisco.

5 Spice Tea House and Restaurant

11A South Moger Avenue  Mount Kisco, New York

tel; 914-666-8883

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The Greenwich Ct. Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 100th Anniversary and is hosting a very special Centennial Cocktail Celebration.  The party will be held on Thursday January 26th from 5:30 to 8:00 pm at Betteridge located at 239 Greenwich Avenue.

This will be a red carpet event with food provided by Plum, wine by Val’s and vintage cocktails provided by the mixologists at The National.   There will be live throwback music and you can even mingle with local celebrities.  This is an event not to miss!

Space is limited for this event.   Tickets are $100

See you there!

To register :

greenwichchamber.com

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There’s a new restaurant in Mt.Kisco that really has been getting quite the buzz.  Kisco River Eatery is a classic American restaurant with an Italian twist.

This warm and comfortable restaurant features lovely traditional fixtures, a stone fireplace with timber mantle, vintage photos and prints, and a dark wood bar.  The lighting is soft and gentle and casts a warm and comfortable glow which helps sets the mood for the evening.  The bar is a great place for a pre dinner drink or just to gather with friends.  There are some interesting cocktails available.

First course: There is a perfect selection of appetizers to try.  A standout is the Eggplant Stack, with fresh mozzarella, plum tomatoes, arugula, shaved parmesan, aged balsamic glaze and extra virgin olive oil.  This dish is a delightful blend of crispy eggplant, fresh soft cheese, and spices.  This appetizer is perfect for one or makes a nice option to share.   This dish is a hit and should be sampled.

Eggplant Stack

If soup is something you enjoy, a wonderful choice is the Montauk Fish Soup.  The presentation of this dish delightful with a large bowl of fresh clams, shrimp, halibut, and mussels on top of a very tasty saffron cream broth.  I absolutely loved this dish, and if you love seafood, you will as well.

Montauk Fish Soup

Main Course:  There are some excellent entree selections on the menu.  I opted for the Sea Scallops, pan seared in a white wine butter sauce with sauteed spinach and mashed potatoes.  I really enjoyed the delicate taste of fresh scallops complimented by the velvety sauce.

Pan Seared Sea Scallops

I also tasted the pan seared Halibut with Quinoa and apple salad served over a butternut squash puree.  The fish is as fresh as it gets with and the mild taste of halibut is enhanced by the interesting blend of  other ingredients in the entire dish.  A great selection and again a nice presentation.  There is something for every taste on the menu including seafood, steaks,ribs, chicken and Italian favorites.

Halibut over Butternut Squash

Desserts:  The desserts are all homemade and there are some of the usual favorites, including Cheese Cake, Tiramisu, Apple Blueberry Cobbler, Molten Chocolate Cake and Creme Brulee.    I was able to sample some of these dishes including a Strawberry Crepe  and all the desserts are a great way to round up your meal.

Kisco River Eatery is a great new edition to the dining scene in Northern Westchester.  It is the kind of restaurant where you feel instantly comfortable.  With its combination of great food,cocktails, reasonable prices and comfy atmosphere,  you will want to return again and again.

Kisco River Eatery

222 East Main Street Mt Kisco NY                 tel  914.218.3877

web: http://kiscoriver.com

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Nestled in the scenic beauty that is the Hudson Valley Highlands, there is a lovely restaurant that is a real hidden gem.  Valley Restaurant located at the Garrison in Garrison New York is a real hidden gem waiting to be discovered.  This beautiful golf club, inn and dining venue is surrounded by the lush landscape and views  of the Hudson River Valley.

The Valley Restaurant has its own kitchen gardens on the property and the gardeners work with Executive Chef Vin Mocarski who has crafted a menu of American contemporary cuisine which changes seasonally.

The interior space reflects a casual country elegance that feels instantly comfortable.  In warmer weather there is a deck for outside dining which takes advantage of the views of the river and the mountains.  Inside seating is available in both the World’s End Bar and the main dining room.

Dining selections consist of small plates, raw bar, local cheese boards, and main entrees.

The following are the menu items we had the pleasure to sample:

Though considered a small plate, the Maine Lobster Sliders with salad (or fries) is a healthy, fresh portion of delicious lobster and is great for one or can be shared.  A tasty way to start a meal.

Lobster Sliders

For seafood lovers, try the Spanish Octopus with yogurt, Piquillo, and chick peas.  This is amazing appetizer that is beautifully prepared and presented.

Spanish Octopus

Another starter to order is the baby beets with ricotta cheese and bagel chips.  A fresh veggie dish which is has a pleasing presentation.

Baby Beets

Main Course: my main entree was the American Red Snapper ala Plancha.  What a delicious plate with spaghetti squash, concord grapes and baby herb salad. Again as with the first course, it was beautifully presented and I really enjoyed the fusion of the ingredients.

Red Snapper

The Nantucket Bay Scallops is a wonderful dish with celery root, pomegranate and brussel sprouts.  The chef really knocked the presentation out of the park with this dish.  The combination of flavors really stood out and enhanced the fresh scallops.

Nantucket Bay Scallops

For meat lovers, the Filet of Beef with Leeks and potato confit in a black truffled demi jus surely aims to please. A nice portion of beef and potato that was very satisfying.

Filet of Beef

Do not leave Valley Restaurant before checking out the homemade desserts by specialty pastry chef, Kirstie Castellano.  It was challenging to choose from the nice selection but we sampled the Fried Cheesecake with peanut butter ganache, bananas,  and chocolate bacon. An eclectic and fun dessert. The Pear Tart Tatin with red wine caramel, rosemary ice cream and creme fraiche is a delightful infusion of flavors.

Fried Cheescake (top) and Eggnog Panna Cotta (below)

The Eggnog Panna Cotta prepared with nutmeg, candied ginger and a Gingerbread cookie was a comforting, seasonal selection and we really enjoyed its fresh creamy texture.

Also available are coffee from Irving Farm Roasters (Dutchess County and NYC) , a selection of teas, a large choice of Single Malt Scotch, Brandy, Port and Dessert wines to round out your dining experience.

The Valley Restaurant was a real find.  The combination of a comfortable dining room, fine service, and outstanding dishes make this restaurant a must dine destination.

Valley Restaurant at the Garrison

2015 Route 9  Garrison, New York           

tel:845.424.3604                                      

web:  http://www.thegarrison.com

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For a divine culinary adventure, you can experience the tastes of the Mediterranean coast at Mediterraneo of White Plains.  This newly opened restaurant is the seventh venture for the Z Hospitality Group and it joins its fellow restaurants also named Mediterraneo located in Greenwich and in Norwalk.  Albert DeAngelis is the Executive Chef at Z Hospitality and he has brought his extensive skills and culinary magic to produce an innovative and delicious menu to this cutting edge dining destination. The cuisine is described as “Coastal Mediterranean”.

The restaurant is located in on the corner of Main Street and Renaissance Square in downtown White Plains in a modern building. The unique interior makes the most of the interesting modern space and includes a wood burning oven, bar, open kitchen, three floor glass elevator, and  separate dining spaces on all three floors.  The feel is open, contemporary with strong European design influence.

The building is wrapped in windows and an unusual cross hatch pattern which is visually interesting and makes the space bright in the day, and allows it to be part of the city scene during the evening. The large two story high ombre mural and marine colored glass lends to the Mediterranean feel. The look is further enhance by custom lighting, Italian made furniture and nautical inspired wood floors. See slideshow below of interior photos.

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The main draw to this new restaurant is the top quality fresh food and delicious pairing of ingredients combined with a beautiful presentation.

Cocktails: a top mixologist has produced some interesting and refreshing cocktails that were just right and not overpowered by odd combinations of ingredients. They really complimented the meal and set the mood for the evening.  We sample the excellent Sangria de Madrid (white wine), The Don Johnson, a blend of Tito’s vodka, grapefruit juice lime and muddled mint, and The Havana 1960 a refreshing version of the mojito.

Sangria de Madrid

Don Johnson

Here are some of the great dishes I sampled:  The Shrimp Chowder with andouille sausage is a creamy soup with a slight smoky finish with chunks of shrimp.  A real soothing and comforting taste especially on the cold December night I visited.

Shrimp Chowder

The charred Spanish Octopus is an appetizer not to miss.  Combining octopus, dried chorizo sofrito, lemon, and sliced potatoes was nicely prepared and soft, not chewy.  A real Mediterranean delight.

Charred Spanish Octopus

The crispy Potato Gnocchi Salad shows off the homemade pasta taste with a plate of goat cheese, frisee greens and red grapes. I am not usually a fan of gnocchi but this dish was delicious and the pasta melted in your mouth.

Potato Gnocchi Salad

If you are a ravioli lover, try the Lobster Ravioli with butternut squash, tomato and lobster chunks. Each ravioli was stuffed and full of flavor in each bite.  An amazing dish and very satisfying.

Lobster Ravioli

The signature dish is the Parmesan Crusted Halibut with roasted cauliflower in a tomato-chive beurre blanc sauce.  This was absolute perfection! All the seafood is fresh delivered that day and you taste the difference.  I cannot wait to have this dish again it was so good.

Parmesan Crusted Halibut

The desserts are made in house and are fantastic.  I sampled the chocolate Peanut Butter Cake, Pistachio Cake, Tiramisu and the Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce.   All were great, but the Peanut Butter Cake and the Cheesecake were real standouts.

If you are looking for a new dining experience, with a fresh innovative menu and located in an unique modern dining environment, put Mediterraneo of White Plains on your dining list.

photo credit:Z Hospitality

Mediterraneo  White Plains

189 Main Street White Plains New York

tel: 914-448-8800

web:  http://www.zhospitalitygroup.com/mediterraneowhiteplains

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