Eataly - New York

I am so excited to finally share my experience at this amazing place in New York City called Eataly. I feel that this place is a little taste of what Italy would be like. Eataly has Markets with imported cheeses, meats, fresh fish, wine, pasta, you name it, they have it. They also have 7 sit down Italian restaurants and 2 counters to purchase small bites as well as a cooking school.

 

I know what you’re thinking, its heaven right?  I would have liked to dine at one of their amazing restaurants but we did not have reservations and the wait was over an hour. We decided to eat at La Piazza which is the only first come first serve restaurant in Eataly and is standing tables only. They serve mostly small appetizer type dishes so keep that in mind. Eataly has an incredible atmosphere and is a must if you’re in New York. If you get a chance I hear that Birreria, their roof top restaurant, is great!

 

Sinatra at the Encore - Las Vegas

As 2012 comes to an end, my husband Jorge and I decided to end the year with a bang in none other than Sin City. Las Vegas is one of my favorite cities to dine in and our first night there Jorge wanted to surprise me with dinner. I had no idea where we were going and as soon as we walked in and I saw the name Sinatra, I had the biggest smile on my face and just about fell to the floor. I had no idea there was a restaurant dedicated in memory of Frank Sinatra, who, if you haven’t already noticed, is my absolute favorite (thanks to my mom). When you walk in you’re surrounded by pictures and memorabilia of Ol’ Blue eyes and the sweet sound of his voice is playing during your entire dining experience. The service was nothing short of wonderful and the food was just the same. For an appetizer we decided on the Carpaccio. Thinly sliced beef tenderloin, salsa verde, wild arugula with shaved parmesan and croutons. This was my first time having croutons on carpaccio and it was a fantastic change. For dinner our server recommended the Ossobuco “My Way” which is braised veal ossobucco with risotto milanese and gremolata; he mentioned they braise it for hours so I was excited to try it. The flavors were amazing and the meat so tender and delicate. Jorge can never say no to a filet so when the server mentioned the specials he decided on the 10oz Filet Mignon which was accompanied with asparagus and mashed potatoes. He was a happy and full man that evening. At the end of our meal we received a CD of Steve Wynn’s (the owner of Encore and the Wynn in Las Vegas) favorite Sinatra songs; it was a pleasant touch at the end of the evening. Sinatra is definitely on the pricey side but if you are a fan of Frankie or even if you’re not and want to go to a beautiful restaurant this is the place.