Utah goes “Hollywood” this Friday

On Friday, Utah will “go Hollywood” as the Entertainment and Choice Awards are presented in Salt Lake City.

American Idol’s David Archuleta, Matrix series co-star Daniel Bernhardt and Utah’s very own Donny Osmond are only a few of the celebrities who will illuminate the night on May 20th at the Salt Palace.

“This is a Hollywood awards show combined with the hospitality of Utah,” show producer Doug Osmond said.

Osmond, who is the nephew of Donny Osmond, came on board with awards show organizers after hearing the vision for the event.

“Utah doesn’t have anything like this and it is important for us to celebrate all that we have done and continue to do in the Arts and Entertainment industry right here in Utah,” he said.

The Entertainment and Choice Awards (ECA) sponsored by Alpine V, were created to spotlight those companies and individuals who have contributed to Utah’s entertainment and business communities. Nominees will be honored from a variety of areas including film, television, radio, community contribution and athletics.

Daniel Bernhardt, a notable actor as well as director and producer, was invited to host the event. The black tie awards event is expected to draw 1,200 attendees who share the same goal of contributing to and expanding Utah’s entertainment and business infrastructure.

“I expect this will be a lot of fun and people will enjoy themselves. It will be a great benefit to the entertainment industry for Utah and a great way to recognize people for their contributions.” Bernhardt continued, “It gives a lot of attention to Utah and will help push the local film industry as well.“

A native of Switzerland, he discussed this being his first visit to Utah.

“I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve never seen Utah except in films and television and I expect the mountains and green hills will remind me of my country. I have met people from Utah and they’re very nice and down to earth.”

Guests for the event include; college basketball star Jimmer Fredette, comedian Louie Anderson, former Governor Norm Bangerter, author Richard Paul Evans, theater and music star Debbie Gibson, So You Think You Can Dance stars, Ryan and Ashleigh DiLello, sports radio personality Melinda Prince, the Utah Jazz Bear, pro-racer Aaron Oliveraz, rap artist TJ Fredette, television news icon Dick Nourse and many more.

Osmond commented on the exposure the nominees will receive.
“It will bring recognition for all that the nominees have done for the community. The attendees will leave feeling like they have just attended a Hollywood event and will be wanting more!”

Bernhardt, a veteran presenter, commented on the celebrity lineup he will introduce.

“I’m excited to see David Archuleta. My family is a huge fan of American Idol and my daughter is excited that I will meet him. I’ve always been a fan of Debbie Gibson too. I’m excited to host and really appreciate being brought in to do this.”

When asked if there were any surprises planned for the night, he commented, “there will be jokes and a skit involving my history with the film The Matrix, but I can’t say more than that.”

Considered the “Golden Globes” of Utah, the ECA show provides a unique spotlight of recognition for Utah’s entertainment industry and everyone is invited to attend this evening of dinner, comedy, music and red carpet awards event.

In keeping with Utah’s time honored commitment to service and benefiting the community, the ECA has partnered with the medical foundation Neuroworx (www.neuroworx.org); a company dedicated toward the research of spinal cord injuries. A portion of the evening’s proceeds will go to benefit Neuroworx’s rehabilitation facility located in Sandy, Utah.

For more details about the ECA, list of nominees, presenters and celebrity attendees, visit their website: http://www.utahentertainmentawards.com.

Spring at Thanksgiving Point is a wonderful thing!

Spring is my favorite time of year for one reason alone: daffodils! I’ve been a fan since I was a kid. I love the color and smell of the trumpet-looking flowers and I was elated to find so many daffodils at Thanksgiving Point during their recent Tulip Festival. The festival draws big crowds that come to see the 100 different varieties of tulips and daffodils. I loved seeing the abundance of spring color and found my visit to be educational with markers on each variety indicating which type of flower was blooming.

Thanksgiving Point is a beautiful place and my favorite thing to do is walk through the gardens. Basking in the spring sunshine, I walked the 55-acre landscape in awe at the abundance of spring flowers. I plan to make my pilgrimage to Thanksgiving Point an annual event. I had a wonderful time walking the grounds surrounded by families and couples walking hand in hand. It was a pleasant and sunny day when I went, and despite a chill in the air, the day couldn’t have been more magical.

Not just an impressive garden, Thanksgiving Point offers much more. Situated South of Draper and North of Lehi, Thanksgiving Point has something for everyone. There is an impressive golf course and although I’ve never golfed there, I hear the course is excellent. The large theater shows Imax films and there is the Museum of Ancient Life that boasts having the world’s largest display of mounted dinosaurs. There are various child-themed activities year-round. I enjoy the small café and shops with unique home décor as well. I’ve been to various expos that have been held in the large red barn, and there’s even a farm with animals to pet along with pony and wagon rides. It’s a fun family centered place. Thanksgiving Point offers horticultural and art classes as well. On my visit to the Tulip Festival I chose to go alone and found many other people were going solo and taking photos while enjoying the scenery. I couldn’t believe the amount of tulips and daffodils that were blooming. There was a colorful tribute to the spring season in every corner of the grounds.

A fun place to visit while strolling the garden is the large man made waterfall. I’ve been to concerts on the grass with the waterfall as the backdrop. It’s a beautiful venue. Walking above the waterfall, as I crossed the bridge, I noticed people were stopping to take photos. Down on a ledge was an owl sitting in a nest. It was large with one open eye peering back at us. He looked really comfortable hanging out on the side of the wall. It was fun to see. I did a lot of “people watching” too and saw a lot of diversity. I wasn’t expecting that considering I was so close to Utah County. It was nice. I spoke with some people from India who were visiting relatives in Utah. They were impressed at the beauty and architecture of the gardens.

My favorite garden is tucked away under an arbor. A wooden door opens into the small walled room. There is a flowing fountain and it’s really peaceful there. Decorated with flowers, it was very beautiful. I also like the small mound with stairs that lead to Roman columns at the top. It’s a great way to look out across the vast property. The day I was visiting, a piper was playing the bagpipes throughout the garden. It was nice to hear the music echoing through the hills.

Thanksgiving Point is a magical place to visit during the spring and summer months. If you go to the Tulip Festival next year be sure to take your camera and enter their contest. They have categories for Junior, Youth and Adult Amateurs. The winning photo will be published in the June issue of the Thanksgiving Point Gazette. If you missed the Tulip Festival this year, plan to come next year and bring a jacket as you never know what weather you’ll get!

For more information visit:

http://www.thanksgivingpoint.com/

More photos? See the link below!

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Visit Siragusa for fresh authentic Italian food!

Good Italian food seems to be my weakness and my latest temptation is a newly opened restaurant called Siragusa. Owned by Ross and April Siragusa, the Italian restaurant is a treasure in West Valley. The story of how Siragusa came to be, is as unique and original as the owners themselves.

In January, April called in to local radio station KBER Rock 101.1 and won a contest. She was invited in to the studio to compete again the following week. The weekly competition involves food, and with husband Ross’s cooking skills, she was able to impress DJ’s Mick and Allen with the authentic Italian fare. Winning for weeks on end, Mick and Allen encouraged April and Ross to open a restaurant of their own.

With Ross being out of work due to the economy, April suggested in February that they start their own business considering the response they were getting from the satisfied DJ’s and other staff at KBER. I was one of the lucky people who benefited from April coming in week after week  bringing Ross’s amazing creations. Ross was hesitant to open a restaurant but did some research and finally conceded to April’s suggestion. Six weeks later their authentic Italian restaurant, Siragusa opened to the public.

Ross is a chef with over thirty years experience who has held many jobs as a “mechanic” fixing restaurants all over the country by working in the kitchen and managing the business. He’s the Utah version of Chef Ramsey, I guess you could say.

Having worked in restaurants since he was a teenager in Chicago, Ross has learned to cook anything and everything but chose true Italian dishes for this restaurant because of his Sicilian heritage. He told me he grew up with lasagna and pizza for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.  I don’t know how much more authentically Italian you can get than that. The recipes at Siragusa are Ross’s own creations.

Ross and head chef Keith Anderson, have developed a strong synergy working together for over twenty years in various kitchens around the country.  They teamed up for this new venture but the road to opening Siragusa in six weeks was not without trials.

Ross and April found their location came with restaurant equipment included in the lease, but many things were not functioning and the building which had been a Colombian restaurant and nightclub, was dark and dingy. The Siragusa’s remodeled the space by painting walls and bringing in décor that makes the restaurant look and feel like a cozy Italian café. The checkered tablecloths and walls adorned with Italian bottles and artwork reminded me of quaint café’s I encountered in my travels to Rome and Florence.

The restaurant has large window-like frames on the walls with photos from a trip to Sicily. Once the laborious remodel was done, April spent her time decorating the restaurant after working at her day job. Ross worked on designing an authentic Italian menu. Together they were able to open the restaurant to a large crowd yesterday.  I was lucky to be invited to an open house for friends last week where I tried more of their amazing food.

Ross told me they want Siragusa’s to offer fresh, affordable and high quality food at a low price. Offering pastas, seafood, chicken and pork, salads, soup and desserts, I was in awe of the food I tried at my visit to their cozy restaurant.

Some of their signature dishes include Pork Osso Bucco which is a pork shank slow cooked for six hours accompanied by a red sauce made with red wine. The meat was sweet and tender. I loved it. Another signature dish is their Carbonara and Fettuccine Alfredo, which is made to order from scratch with the freshest ingredients. I tried the Chicken Carbonara and it was the closest to an authentic Italian dish I have tasted in Utah. It was rich and creamy and the freshness of the ingredients was apparent.

Another favorite dish of mine is the Chicken Tortellini. This blew me away. Made with a tomato cream sauce accompanied by artichokes, it was flavorful and the homemade sauce was addicting.

An excellent choice is their Chicken Parmesan. Moist chicken is covered with a crunchy breaded crust that is accompanied by a sweet red sauce. It was very good and a second helping was hard to resist. Another plus about Siragusa’s is that they bread all their foods in house, which can be rare in restaurants these days. I appreciate their commitment to quality.

Having spent twenty years in Florida, Ross is well cultured in seafood dishes and Siragusa offers tilapia and shrimp scampi dishes. A unique item on their menu is the Sweet Potato Gnocci, which is a healthy alternative to regular gnocci.

Ross, April, and staff are committed to providing as Ross said, “good portions of great tasting food served by nice people in a good atmosphere.” I would have to agree that Siragusa offers all that and more.

Open during the week from 11-9pm for lunch and dinner and 11-10pm on Friday and Saturday, they also offer catering and to-go orders. This Sunday only from 11-8pm, they will be open and offering lunch and dinner for Mother’s Day. Go in for the free garlic cheese bread or bruschetta with the purchase of an entree.

Siragusa is located at 4115 South Redwood Road. I highly recommend their food and you’ll love the great service!

For more photos see the link below!

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Wiseguys WVC was the place to be with Hal Sparks in the house!

The last time I ventured into the corner of West Valley that cradles the comedy club Wiseguys, I went to see my friend and comedian Craig Gass. He appropriately nicknamed that particular Wiseguys location, “the rape corner of the strip mall”. It was true. The West Valley Wiseguys location wasn’t pretty.

I decided to give the WVC Wiseguys another chance when comedian Hal Sparks came into town last week. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the rape corner location had been nicely renovated. It was a far cry from the dingy shop it used to be.

A new façade and cleaner parking lot made this venture to Wiseguys a much better experience. I’ve always enjoyed the comedic talent that Wiseguys is able to attract. It’s impressive how many big names in comedy have walked through their doors at all three of their locations. Last Thursday’s show was the best I’ve been to yet. The newly remodeled digs made the night much more enjoyable and I got to hear some great comedy.

Starting out the night was Timm Thorn. A local comedian, his jokes were relative to the Utah culture and very original. It’s easy to make jokes about religion and liquor laws in our fine state, but Timm came from a fresh perspective and his best material involved his poor luck in dating. Everything was relatable and he was a great warm up for the large crowd.

Next was LA comedian Chris Bonno. Bonno, who tours with comedian Hal Sparks, was a fun comic. His guitar and harmonica accompanied him and it was entertaining to hear him do renditions of songs using different voices. My favorite was his Johnny Cash tribute. I’m a sucker for anything Cash, and Bonno’s performance was a treat. He then joked about women who wear Spanx lingerie and his sound effects were very entertaining as he mimicked the efforts of big girls getting into the tight fitting girdles. His take on Disneyland was hilarious. I would definitely come to one of his shows again.

The headliner was celebrity comic Hal Sparks. Famous for his time on “Queer as Folk” and VH1’s “I Love the 80’s” shows, it was exciting to have such a pro take the stage. I had met him earlier in the day when he and Bonno did a stop at KBER Rock 101.1. The radio show was one of the best I’ve witnessed. We left with our cheeks hurting from laughing so much. I had to see them perform again.

Sparks joked about everything from climate change to racial, spiritual and cultural divides. His perspective on hot topics was refreshing. Not one to shy from offense, he ventured into brave territory illuminating hypocrisy in religion and the gay culture. He talked about the controversial Prop 8 vote and verses in the bible from Leviticus. It was interesting and amusing. His most animated bit was explaining evolution and the animal kingdom. It was beyond funny as he described National Geographic and mimicked animals becoming prey. Sparks had great physical comedy and impersonations. It was a thrill to finally see his live performance.

After the show the comedians signed autographs and sold DVD’s. It was fun to meet the comics and get to know them better. When I left I noticed that for the first time since coming to Wiseguys I felt safe walking to my car. I was glad WVC is finally appreciating the gem of a comedy club they have in their neck of the woods.

Visit http://www.wiseguys.com for information on upcoming shows. Check out the remodeled West Valley location. It’s a great alternative to Trolley Square or the Ogden locations.

For more photos see the link below!

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Sundance 2011 tips and tricks!

For many filmmakers and people in the “biz of show,” Sundance is the epitome of independent filmmaking and an opportunity for networking. Being local, I have attended the renowned film festival many times.

For those that don’t know much about Sundance, it’s ten days of people from all over the world descending on the tiny town of Park City. There are venues in Ogden and Salt Lake as well for those not wanting to trek up the canyon. If you’ve never been up to Park City for Sundance this article is for you. Before you go be sure you know where to start.

First, plan on four wheel drive or chains being required up Parley’s canyon if there is snow.  Once you get into Park City there are parking options that are either free or very inexpensive. Check www.sundance.org for a map of parking and observe parking signs closely. I have seen many people get parking tickets during their time in Park City because they didn’t read all the warnings.

Another option is getting to know the locals in Park City. An inside tip from a local I know is to park at the high school on Kearns Boulevard. There are designated parking areas and the shuttle swings by there.

Once you’ve parked, getting around is fairly simple. The Park City transit system has done a great job over the years of not leaving people out in the cold for long while they wait for a shuttle. I always use that as a great opportunity to talk to people and hear the latest film buzz.

If you haven’t booked a room somewhere it could be hard now.  Besides sharing a condo with a bunch of people, there are homes for rent and the option of staying at a hotel in Salt Lake in the Sugarhouse area, which is close to Parley’s Canyon. Of course you would need a car to get to Park City, so weigh your options.  Craigslist has a lot of listings of vacation rentals. You could also press your luck and hope to meet someone willing to let you couch surf, but that’s risky.

In regards to tickets, there are great deals if you plan ahead. There are different levels of Festival Passes depending on the amount of films and access you want to have. Ticket packages are more economical, but limit the amount of films available to you.  Individual tickets are only $15 and really your only option if you didn’t purchase in advance. There are a variety of ways to get a ticket and two I recommend are “day of show” tickets and “wait list” tickets. Read www.sundance.org for info on the process.

One of the greatest things about seeing a Sundance film is the dialogue with the filmmakers afterwards. The Q & A is a great way to learn and get inside information on the film you’ve just seen. I’ve met everyone from Michael Stipe of the band REM talking about a film he produced, to Inception director Christopher Nolan after he commented on making Memento. It’s a great chance to meet upcoming and established filmmakers and talent.

In addition to screenings, there are many events and venues full of information and entertainment.

Most of the stores and restaurants along Main Street in Park City are rented out during Sundance to create lounges or a space to advertise. I’ve been in many where they invite the public to come in from the cold and listen to live music or hear about what they’re sponsoring.  Last year I met some people at a restaurant where we all agreed to share a table to avoid a longer wait. This was a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends. Because we had breakfast together, they invited me to a screening of their friend’s short film in a collection of shorts at a bar that was rented out for public screenings, which was separate from Sundance. I saw really good films and it was completely free.

Off of Main Street there are also private entertainment lounges.  You usually have to be on a list to get into these. The hottest list to get onto this year is the Independent Filmmaker’s Lounge sponsored by Power and Industry, Film Utah and Utah Film Locations. Their guest list is amazing. Talking Pictures and the Foreclosure Boys will be doing celeb interviews. There is swag of course and opportunities for networking.

Sundance has evolved the last few years and more music is being showcased now. This year, the tiny Star Bar will be turned into the House of Blues and big bands are expected to come. Third Eye Blind, The Wailers and The Pussy Cat Dolls are expected. This will be a tough venue to get into and the hottest ticket in town.

If you’re just looking to hob-nob then a Sundance credential pass is an option.  If purchased in advance, it gives you the ability to get into various Sundance sponsored venues such as the Filmmaker Lodge and ASCAP Music Café. This gives you great opportunities to network.

As an actress, I have been to Sundance to promote myself and always have plenty of business cards with me. Be open to meeting people and getting to genuinely know them. People can tell when someone is talking to them just to get help with their career. Make friendship the focus. It’s fun. I’ve gotten into a lot of parties by becoming someone’s new friend.

If you also want to catch a glimpse of celebrities while you’re touring the festival, besides premieres of their films you can take the chance and walk Main Street hoping for a sighting.

A lot of shops on Main are set up for entertainment interviews so just walking up and down Main gives you the chance to see celebrities.  I have been lucky to meet the band U2 outside a restaurant before they premiered their film “U23D”. I was walking up Main Street and had noticed a lot of media were camped out in front of the restaurant. I figured with the influx of people waiting, that someone famous would be stopping by. I asked a cameraman from NBC whom he expected and he said it was rumored U2 would be having dinner. Shorty thereafter four SUV’s pulled up with the band members. I was one of 4 people there to meet them. I felt fortunate.

Another way I have met celebrities is by volunteering for local sponsored events.  Three years ago, because I knew a Park City events promoter, I volunteered to assist with whatever he needed.  I spent my time walking Main Street looking for people that a local radio station could interview. Because I was at the radio’s remote location I got to know the people working for the station. I mentioned I heard Josh Groban was in town and that I wanted a photo of him for my grandmother who is a die-hard fan, but wasn’t sure how I’d ever find him during the festival. Comedian Craig Gass was in the room and mentioned he knew Josh’s bodyguard. He made a phone call and two hours later I was meeting the bodyguard who allowed me entrance to Josh’s private concert in a room at Harry O’s.  Only sixty people were allowed for the event and Sharon Stone was sitting a row away from me. It was amazing. I never met Josh, but after that I was invited to Chefdance that was taking place downstairs. I dined with Josh’s manager and friends and food prepared by an award-winning chef. It was a great experience. Later that night I went to a concert at Harry O’s and Josh happened to be in the audience. He kindly obliged when I asked for a photo. Mission accomplished. You just never know who you might run into.

For dining options during Sundance be prepared for fixed menus and difficult to get reservations. If you can be flexible, try for very early or late-night reservations at most places.  Beyond Main there are alternatives if you’re willing to travel.

In the Holiday Village Shopping mall off of Kearns Boulevard is my favorite sandwich place called Leger’s. Also there is a Subway near there and on the corner is Squatter’s.

At Kimball Junction (off I-15 at the exit) there are really good restaurants and eateries for less. I have enjoyed meals at Good Thymes Bistro and Red Rock Brewing Company. They’re both moderately priced and very good quality food. If you want healthy fare then try the deli at Whole Foods Market.

Another aspect of the Sundance festival is the attire. Be prepared for winter weather and dress warm. Most LA types wear black so if you want to fit in I suggest you go noire.

For something outside of the hard to get films, check out New Frontier, which is a convergence of film, art and new media technologies that will be in the Miners Hospital on Park Avenue. Events are free and open to the public.

Whether you’re coming to Sundance for star-sightings, parties, networking or just to see what all the buzz is about, be sure to take the time to see a film or two.  You’ll be in the midst of one of the largest film festivals in the world, and have the opportunity to see some ground-breaking films by original storytellers. If you’re at all interested in film, this is the place to be. Are you going to go this year? 🙂

High West Distillery is a unique Park City attraction!

Whiskey doesn’t quickly come to mind when I think of dinner, but in Park City it seems anything goes and that’s true at the High West Distillery and Saloon on Park Avenue. Until recently, the building was an abandoned tribute to the Park City of old. Refurbished now but still maintaining rustic attitude, the building has become a popular restaurant and saloon specializing in distilled spirits.

The first distillery in Utah since 1870, this place is full of history and charm. Prior to its new existence, the building was the “National Garage” and I remember it fondly from drives up to Park City during my childhood—many years after the automobiles left the building. It originally began as a livery stable to service the workhorses that pulled the carts in the mines.

The garage is now attached to an adjoining house and the décor of the restaurant is quaint with bottles of whiskey creatively hung on the wall as you enter the side of the building. I sat down to a front seat view of the big screen TV on the back wall with a football game in progress.  I quickly got acclimated to the lively atmosphere. Behind me was a bar that looked authentic for the dark saloon-type establishment. I liked the mix of modern influences with the mood of nostalgia for the old west. It was fun to be eating in a saloon with an open door during the warm months. It has a mellow atmosphere and everyone seems welcome.

The chairs are metal, a sharp contrast to the wooden beams and walls. The windows looked to be original with square panes that led my eye to the chairlift outside breezing by. Situated next to the Town Lift, it’s a comfortable, down home kind of place. The sound levels are loud since the restaurant is in a large open room with high ceilings. If you want a casual hang out then this is the place, especially if you’re a sports fan.

The service was amazing. My server was very nice and knowledgeable. He seemed to know the menu inside and out. I liked that assurance. I knew I was in good hands.

I started with their signature cocktail, the High West Lemonade. This strong cocktail was made with their Rendezvous Rye whiskey and lemonade. A sprig of mint was thrown in for decoration and flavor. Not one for whiskey, I found this drink was surprisingly refreshing and tasty! At only $8, I was impressed it had so much “bang for the buck” and was economical for Park City standards.  High West creates their own small-batch, award winning whiskeys and vodkas. That’s what makes them unique.

As a starter, the server brought out the most delicious roll I think I’ve ever had. A combination plate of bread and rolls with butter, it was complimentary with the meal. The roll was crunchy on the outside and moist and dense on the inside–with an herbal kick. I asked for seconds because they were that good.

For my entree I had their house pasta. I couldn’t resist. A splash of whiskey infused in the white Gruyere sauce was a flavorful base for the pasta with roasted red tomatoes and kalamata olives. It was delicious.

My friend had the small plate of mac and cheese. I had a bite and it was very good with a smoked flavor from the white Cheddar and Gruyere cheeses.  It had a crumbly Parmesan crust. It was small, so if you’re looking for a filling meal, a small plate won’t cut it so plan to order something in addition.

Something fun to try is their pairings off the menu. Although I haven’t done it, I plan to come back and try their chocolate and whiskey pairing that my server highly recommended. I like the unusual, so I’ll definitely give that one a try.

The restaurant prides itself on offering locally grown food. Some of their vendors come from neighboring Midway and they also use the local Beehive Cheese Company.

The distillery has a gift shop full of whiskey themed gifts and décor. It’s really charming. The restaurant opens up to a large space next door in the attached house and there are rooms available for private dining and another bar on the other side of the building.

They offer tours and I plan to take one the next time I am there. I don’t know much about making whiskey so it would be a good education for me. The tour of the distillery includes the 250-gallon copper pot still where they distill their spirits. The tours are offered daily. Call to confirm the times.

The restaurant and distillery are a unique place to visit, and the food and drinks are exceptional. I highly recommended saddling up to the bar to see what a great find we have in Park City.

For more information see: http://www.highwest.com

For more photos see the link below!

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Les Madeleines has a secret treat!

If you’re like me sometimes you want to just hang out in a quiet coffee shop and read a book. Unfortunately I’ve found a lot of coffee shops in Salt Lake have bad acoustics and loud music. It can be distracting especially for students that need to study, but that’s not the case at a secret coffee shop of mine. Located South of the library downtown, Les Madeleines is a cozy little cafe on 500 South and a few shops shy of 200 East. It’s tucked away and charming. It’s a great place to go if you want a quiet environment and warm coffee.

From the outside, as you walk along the sidewalk the tiny cafe doesn’t really stand out. It’s a shop with a narrow long room and windows that face the street. Inside, the cafe is bright and a decorative display case holds various desserts and treats.

Known for their pastries, the trendy cafe has one that stands out amongst all the rest. The “Kouing Aman” is a pastry from Bretagne, France or a region commonly known as Brittany. This pastry was amazing and deserving of all praise. It was the reason I fell in love with Les Madeleines and will keep coming back.

Flaky and crunchy on the outside, the inside was soft and sweet. I tasted sugar cane crystals I think. It can best be described as a sugary croissant, but so much more. You just have to try it. It’s that good. It’s very popular and I was lucky to get one of the last few when I visited. They take phone orders so if you find yourself having a craving it might be good to call an order in. Believe me when I say it’s delicious!

For coffee I decided to try the “Mocha Madeleine.” A mocha made with imported chocolate, it was strong and the chocolate was a little on the bitter side. I liked it. It was balanced against the creamy milk. It’s not for a sweet tooth but if you like a more dark chocolate taste you would love this.

My friend had the hot chocolate made with milk chocolate. It was rich and thick. It was my kind of hot chocolate. Both drinks would really hit the spot on a cold day. Because of the imported chocolate the price is a bit steep compared to other coffee shops, but it was worth it for the fine quality.

The atmosphere of the cafe is modern and warm. Bright green booths are lined against the wall under the glow of the Les Madeleines sign on the wall. Light wooden chairs and tables are set up around the room and the walls are covered in artwork. It has a very downtown feel to it. I liked the green flowers in vases at the tables. Little details made the place seem cozy.

The menu has a lot to offer from pastries, cakes and cupcakes to breakfast and lunch items. This is the perfect small neighborhood cafe. If I lived close by I’d eat there often. The parking is the only drawback to this special place. Because it’s downtown there can be times when it’s hard to find parking. I found metered parking along 500 South. The library is a block away and has underground parking available but that would cost more. If you can, try for something along the street first.

The service at Les Madeleines is great and everyone was very friendly and helpful when I was there. They came to my rescue with my internet connection and I was camped out past their closing time, but no one seemed to mind. It’s a nice coffee shop to visit if you want to just sit and unwind. It’s a great place to people watch too.

For more information including current hours of operation visit:
http://www.les-madeleines.com.

Now that you know my secret quiet coffee shop are you going to tell your friends?

See more photos at the link below!

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New Year’s at ARTini was a blast!

Art and martini’s for New Year’s equals “ARTini”, but what’s better than your typical end of year party? I’d say it’s one that has proceeds benefit the High Road for Human Rights Campaign. A non-profit organization to end genocide, torture, human trafficking, sexual slavery and global climate change, this was the second annual New Year’s benefit party and they brought in the year with a bang.

I attended this year’s ARTini party held on New Year’s Eve. Luckily I have some great friends who were kind enough to think of me when their plans changed and they couldn’t use their tickets. I gave my extra $50 ticket to a friend and away we went to ring in the New Year!

A benefit party organized by former mayor Rocky Anderson, attendees buy a ticket for entry that includes free food and drinks along with music and art. Does it get more fun than that? This year the Disco Drippers played to the crowd. It was the first and last time, I will see my friend Kenyon Christian play in the band since the “Drippers” broke up in July. He said they came back for one more performance because they’re friends with Rocky and wanted to help him out. They were amazing playing songs everyone knew and loved.

Also helping out with the event was my friend Mandy Parrish. As a volunteer and Board member of High Road for Human Rights, she orchestrated getting the art for the show. In all, the event had local artists that donated 100 pieces of art. There were also 30 non-art auction items that were donated to the cause. There was a silent auction, and most of the profits of the art sale and all profits from ticket sales went to the Human Rights Campaign.

Local restaurants and food vendors donated food for the night. I dined on appetizers from Whole Foods Market, Indochine, Rubio’s, Rico, Gastronomy, Tony Caputo’s, Wild Grape Bistro and Red Iguana. Effen Vodka donated $1,000 worth of vodka. The peppermint martini’s were surprisingly strong too! Besides vodka there was wine available as well. Summit Ice even donated all the ice for the event. It was great to see so many local companies contributing to a good cause.

My first impression of the venue was filled with irony. Here I was at the Grand Building at the State Fairpark, nearly 20 years since my high school prom. I had hoped for a better experience than prom, and found I had a great time with friends this time around.

The atmosphere was fun with lots of smiling faces. The food was good. I had chips and a spicy guacamole, rice, beans, sautéed mushrooms, Dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), cheese and crackers and other hors d’oeuvres. The only drawback to the night was that the buffet table was nearly empty an hour after the event started, and there was no silverware in sight. Once the situation was explained to the event planners, the buffet table was re-stocked and silverware was plentiful. Everything was back on track.

The highlight for me was telling Rocky Anderson how much I appreciate everything he’s done to modernize Salt Lake and make the city a more live-able place for me. Without his progressive efforts, I wouldn’t have fallen in love with this town when I moved back here six years ago. I have since chosen to be a permanent resident again. He was very gracious and down to earth. It was great to meet him.

Everyone I spoke with at the party said they were having a good time and the band played well past midnight. It was a fun way to ring in 2011 and an event I recommend to catch every year. Hopefully it will grow bigger so more aid can come to High Road for Human Rights. Like any non-profit, they need all the support they can get. I had a great time and appreciate all the hard work everyone put into the night to make it a success. It’s definitely on my list of “best of” events in Utah!

Check out High Road for Human Rights!

www. highroadforhumanrights.net

More photos at the link below!

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Peruvian fare at El Inti is welcomed in Sandy!

 

Having lived in Los Angeles for a few years I became accustomed to a variety of foods. I must say, I never had the opportunity to try Peruvian food while there. My good friend Kori opened a restaurant with her family a few months ago and having eaten their Peruvian food,  I soon realized I have been missing out!

El Inti, which means “the sun god” in Quechua (one of two native languages of Peru) is the newest Peruvian restaurant in Sandy. Located on State Street and about 8500 South next to a 7-Eleven, the family owned restaurant is a dream come true for Kori’s mother Yrma Flores. Yrma (pronounced yeer-ma), is from Peru and with a thick accent and warm smile, she talked to me about opening the restaurant.

“Cooking is my passion,” she says. “I joke often that in my past life I was the cook for the Pharaoh.”

Having owned the first Peruvian restaurant in the state until changes in family ownership in 1995, El Inti is similar to the original family restaurant. In addition to Kori assisting with the family business, her brother Inti and sister Yrtiri also work there. Kori spoke of how this new restaurant is different from the family’s original restaurant opened in 1991.

“This is a different restaurant and we’re unlike other Peruvian restaurants here because we offer vegan and vegetarian options.”

Kori herself is a vegetarian and said that her mother learned how to accomodate her dietary requests and that of other family members who had health issues.

“We want everyone to come in and eat so we serve foods that aren’t just traditional Peruvian food. My mom’s artistic twist is applied to traditional recipes and she can customize dishes for dietary requests. We offer meatless dishes and other Peruvian restaurants don’t do that,” she continued, “because of my grandparent’s health problems my mom researched how to make the same Peruvian foods healthier. She’s really good at making people happy.”

Yrma, a former fashion designer, has always wanted a restaurant again. She talked about her passion for food.

“I like everything that’s creative.  I love design. Cooking for me is very creative and eating is a pleasure”.

Having developed regular customers in only a short four months since opening, El Inti offers Peruvian food from different regions of Peru with Yrma’s artistic touch. Yrma commented on the unique foods offered.

“Peruvian food is universal. It’s very interesting because we have influences from every country. We have different cultures in our history and that makes our food unique.”

Peru’s history is very vast and starts with the Incas inhabiting the land. The people from Morocco came and then from there the Spanish invaded bringing their influences. Yrma said the first Spanish women were the “conquistadores” who came to Peru with cloth covered faces as they were Muslim. This tradition lasted 1,000 years and all women draped their face regardless if they were Muslim or not. After this period, the Africans came to Peru being forced into slavery.  When the slaves were freed, the Chinese replaced them and brought their style of cooking and then the Europeans brought their influences during colonial times.  Eating duck was introduced for the first time in Peru along with Italian pastas.

El Inti’s menu has a variety of historic influences: pastas, stir-fry dishes, meats, seafood, and ceviche. The family plans to open a ceviche bar in the restaurant similar to a sushi bar. There will be seven different varieties of ceviche to choose from. I tried their “Limeno” ceviche and was pleasantly surprised by the zesty lemon juice and raw tilapia fish. I also had the house ceviche which on that night had the white fish marinated in passionfruit juice. It was mild and tangy. It was really good. Both were accompanied by a sweet potato. It was mild and I’d have it again as a chilled starter dish.

As an appetizer I tried “Papa a la Huancaina” which originated from a town in Peru. It was potatoes with a cheese sauce and aji amarillo which is a chile. It’s garnished with olives and sliced boiled eggs. I expected it to be spicy but it was very mild. The potato was warm and I can see this being a Peruvian “comfort food”. It was good.

For my main entree I had the “Tallarin Saltado”. This was a vermicelli pasta dish with green and red peppers, tomatoes and onions. I had mine with chicken. This was served hot and fresh. It was good and very light, but spicy. I loved it.

For dessert I had the most amazing treat that will keep me coming back to El Inti again and again. “Picarones” are to something to die for. A batter made of sweet potato and pumpkin flour which is then deep-fried with a fruit syrup sauce, I can see why a customer came in for a take out order of these alone. I was blown away at how good they tasted. I will be anyone’s friend if they bring me Picarones!

In addition to all the yummy food, I also had a variety of drinks to choose from. I had their coffee, which is organic and imported from Peru. I also tried an “Inca Cola” which is a soft drink that can best be described as a lemongrass cream soda. It was good. My favorite drink was the smoothie I had. A choice between a variety of fruits including guava, passionfruit, cactus, and guanabanana (from Mexico or Colombia), I instead decided to try the recommended “lulo” (or naranjilla originating in Colombia) fruit. Frothy and sweet like candy, it was any sweet tooth’s choice of drink. I could taste the sugar cane crystals. I loved it and it was very unusual tasting with a sweet aftertaste.

A tribute to healthier choices, El Inti serves only filtered drinking water, natural organic fruits and vegetables and hormone free meat. There is also the option of replacing white flour with wheat flour. There is no msg in any of the dishes.

Kori talked of her mother’s dedication to the art of food.

“She’s doing something she really loves and helps people through her cooking. She likes making people feel good. It’s her gift. I’m happy to see her so happy.”

This Tuesday (1/4) El Inti is being celebrated by the Sandy Chamber of Commerce. There is a red ribbon cutting ceremony at noon. There will be free beverages and light refreshments. Give El Inti a visit and see what piece of Peru the South end of the valley has to offer!

For more information visit:

http://www.elinticuisine.com

For more photos click the link below!

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Tuscany is a treat for the holidays!

By far one of the most beautiful restaurants in Utah is Tuscany. Owned by former Jazz player Mark Eaton, it is a treasure found in the forested neighborhood of Holladay. I’ve been there a few times and it’s one of my favorite locations for that special occasion dinner.

I recently went back to Tuscany during the holidays. It’s a magical time of year and Tuscany reflects that mood well.  The exterior of the building was robed in holiday lights illuminating the sweet country style house that’s now a top-rated local restaurant.

Inside the foyer, the impressive medusa-looking crystal chandelier was dancing in colorful holiday lights and the restaurant was festively decorated with Christmas trees and poinsettias in every room. The bar area was warmed by a wood-burning fireplace and the faux tree branching out of the wall was also decorated in Christmas lights. The atmosphere is unique and enchanting.

The ambience of Tuscany is always romantic and there is a sense of intimacy at every table. The lighting is dim and the music is soft. Separate rooms offer a feel of either a relaxed country inn setting or a Mediterranean opulence found in the rooms upstairs. It’s always a comfortable and welcoming place to visit.

The service I’ve had there has always been top-notch. Knowledgeable with an eagerness to please, the wait staff has always treated me well. Something I haven’t found elsewhere in Utah is the menu that lights up once opened. It’s very impressive. Offering a variety of meats and pastas of Northern Italian inspiration along with tempting desserts, Tuscany is deserving of their fine dining status. Rated as one of the nation’s top restaurants by Zagat and receiving praise from Bon Appetit Magazine, the Italian villa offers elegance and amazing food.

On my recent visit I started with a familiar appetizer. I have this every time I eat at Tuscany. The “Chef’s Special Bruschetta” is on my list of the best appetizers I’ve found in Utah. Traditional bruschetta made of basil and tomatoes is countered with a sweet bruschetta made of goat cheese and chopped zucchini. The two contrast nicely and the sweet bruschetta is a twist on the ordinary.

A fan of their risottos, I chose the pan seared chicken picatta. It was very good. Placed on top of olive oil mashed potatoes accompanied by asparagus in a light caper butter sauce, it was full of flavors and a bit on the salty side thanks to the capers. I didn’t mind the salt infusion, but if you’re not a fan of sodium this dish won’t be for you.

I asked our server what the most popular dish was on the menu. My friend had the recommended pork chop. The cured double-center cut pork chop is cooked in the wood-burning stove. Place on scallion mashed potatoes with balsamic roasted red onions, a port reduction sauce completes the meal. This was a new favorite of mine. The meat was the most tender pork chop I have ever tasted. The port sauce was sweet and brought out savory flavors in the meat. The mashed potatoes complimented the intense flavors of the meat and sauce. I will probably have this again the next time I’m there. It was divine.

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To finish the meal I had the banana cream pie. The cream mixture placed in a coconut tart shell and then topped with chocolate and caramel sauce. There was also a crunchy and sweet brulee topping. This dessert was very mild. I recommend it if you’ve had a heavy meal and want something slightly sweet. It was delicious and rather large. It would be plenty to share between two people.

I love Tuscany for many reasons. I have fond memories of meals I’ve eaten there and the company I have enjoyed. It’s a great place to dine if you’re looking for a quiet and secluded meal or if you want a cozy family dinner at a big table by the fire. I’ve been there for many business meals and Tuscany is one of those places that can’t go wrong.

Before you go be sure to have cash on hand as only valet parking is available. Tuscany is open for lunch and dinner. Call for reservations. They cater to weddings on the impressive patio during the summer.

For more information see www.tuscanyslc.com.

If you’ve been to Tuscany, what was your favorite meal?

See more photos at the link below!

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