get your weekend on

Bitter Beer Crawl 

Not surprisingly as the South Bay beer scene continues its growth.. with new gastropubs opening their doors all throughout downtown. It seems like it is only a matter of months before the food/drink scene becomes one of the best in the area. Tonight starting at Market Beer Co. will be a beer crawl, also featuring... 

• 1st stop: Meet at Market Beer Company at 7:00 p.m. (192 W. Saint John St., San Jose, CA)
• 2nd stop: O’Flaherty’s Irish Pub with 56 taps (25 N. San Pedro St., San Jose, CA )
• 3rd stop: The Farmers Union with 50+ taps - grand opening (151 W. Santa Clara St., San Jose, CA)
• 4th stop: The Brit with 40+ taps - free appetizers for beer crawl participants only (173 W Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA)
• Last stop: Good Karma with 18+ taps (37 S. 1st St., San Jose, CA)
• 
  

Farmers Union Grand Opening

151 W. Santa Clara St. 

• San Jose, California 95113

I am so stoked at the amount of great restaurants and bars opening up in the downtown area. This is one that I have seen since the beginning, and watched it go up. The gastropub has yummy food on the menu, the largest TV in the area and boasts an impressive  60+ beers on tap. This is sure to be a packed house every night, so if you cant make it to the grand opening, check it out on a week night. 

Blackbird Tavern Grand Opening

200 S 1st StSan Jose, CA 95113

Hours: 

closed Mon

Tues/Wed/Sun- 4:00- 11:00

Thurs/ Fri/ Sat- 4:00- 12:00

This trendy little spot brags in their flyer that there is no reason to drive to San Francisco for good food, because it is right here in San Jose. The menu looks yummy from what I have seen; Red Curry fries, salmon and the peach cobbler top my list of must try items. I had heard that one of the owners has an a association to Naglee Park Garage, but I'll find out for sure tonight.

Have a great weekend everyone!!

natural defense

When you are working out hard (especially in the summer time) it can be very draining on your body. Make sure to keep your nutrition in check with the right vitamins and antioxidants to ensure proper repair. I found this article the other day in Runner's World about all the right super foods that you should be eating to help your health and recovery. Remember; you can always click on the image for larger viewing. 

9 to 5 chic

blouse- Zara, skirt- Jcrew, heels- Jessica Simpson, bag-Lou, watch Michael Kors

Can I just say that I am pretty much convinced that dressing for work is almost as fun as dressing for play. Jcrew and Zara have the best collections for easy office fashion. Everything from jcrew pairs well together, it's almost like Jenna Lyons designs a collection like one big mix and match line, I love it!!  Their cropped trousers and stylish blazers make any outfit professional and stylish. The blouses from Zara make you feel feminine and flirty, but you can still keep an authoritative vibe. 

side note: The restaurant pictured is Nemea, it just opened a couple months ago and is already making a name for itself in the San Jose downtown dining scene. The ambiance and service is almost as remarkable as the presentation of their dishes. For a modern, upscale take on Greek dining, this may be your spot.

yep, in my white tee

I think that a white tee can be your best friend. 

Just look at all the different looks you can create with this versatile little item. grunge, classic, girly, flirty, fierce, relaxed. When you have somewhere to go and you feel like you have nothing to wear. My best style advice is to pull out old faithful and accessorize your look, then the rest of your look falls into place.. pants, shoes and bag... hawt.

get your weekend on

Dine Downtown- San Jose

June 21, 2013 5:00 pm - 
Sunday, June 30, 2013 9:30 pm
ticket prices range from $20- $80

It's restaurant week in San Jose, and the party kicks off tonight!The event extends for 10 days, allowing patrons the opportunity to try out multiple three-course prix-fixe specialty meals at great savings. Some of the locations include 19Market, Bella Mia, Billy Berk’s, Cafe Stritch, Mezcal, Paolo’s and Vino Vino. 

Dancin' on the Avenue- Willow Glen

June 22, 2013 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm 

One of the most mellow street festivals in the area and takes place in cute downtown Willow Glen. There will be four stages of music plus all the usual suspects; beer/wine, food trucks, art, edible goods, home design, and craft items. 

12th Annual San Francisco Film Festival

June 21, 2013 7:00 pm - 
Sunday, June 23, 2013 11:00 pm
tickets

 SF Indiefest is a year-round, non-profit organization that has been operating since 1998.  The SF Independent Film Festival draws crowds of over 11,000 and continues to support and celebrate maverick filmmakers and their work. 

Stanford Jazz Festival

June 22, 2013 5:00 pm - 
Friday, August 9, 2013 8:00 pm

The Stanford Jazz Festival 2013 presents 32 exciting concerts this summer, involving more than 100 artists, including living legends, rising stars, trail blazers, and world jazz sensations. The Festival opens with a blockbuster weekend, beginning Saturday, June 22nd with a living icon of modern music, Herbie Hancock. 

Paleo Brownies

These scrumptious little babies danced on my taste buds yesterday, and boy do they know how to tango.

  They are definitely more moist and more dense than your typical brownie, which I liked. It made for a chewy- gooey texture and it didn't crumble. My friend also said that you could substitute apple sauce for half of the banana, but I'm also wondering if you could replace some of the avocado too. (like the cake box recipes that allow you to substitute apple sauce for vegetable oil) I'll have to look into that. The recipe that my friend used is below... but I found some other options here here and here, if you're interested. 

Ingredients

2 1/2 cup almond butter
1 1/4 cup honey
2 lg ripe bananas
2 lg avocados
3 eggs
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 tbsp. vanilla
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder

Instructions

Mix the honey and almond butter in a large bowl
Beat the eggs, banana, vanilla, cocoa powder and avocado until you get a mousse-like consistency in a blender
Add baking soda and baking powder.
Spoon in almond butter to complete the batter
Pour into 8 x 8 baking pan or you can make them into bite size brownies by using a mini-muffin pan.
Bake at 350, 15-18 minutes

fun tip- add 1 tsp red pepper to your mixture for a little kick, or walnuts for a little crunch!!

Steal or Splurge

I was having a conversation the other night about how crazy girls are. We spend on purses and shoes what some spend on house payments!? I don't know why that happens, it might be that we are hypnotized by the pretty designer labels.. I pulled a few of my favorite things and some great less expensive look-a-likes (not knock-offs!! mama don't play those games) So next time your lusting over a new Rag and Bone blazer, just know that there may be a in-expensive similar style just waiting to be discovered.

happy shopping xo

Celine Bag $2400

Coach Bag $348

Forever 21 geo print dress $16

Missoni geo print dress $1195

Karen Walker glasses $250

Vince Camuto glasses  $65

young san francisco

I feel like I am finally appreciating all the things that San Francisco has to offer. The drive from San Jose is quite pleasant and that first peak of the skyline as you make that last turn, always gets my excitement up. Lately the City has been such a fun place to go and explore. I feel like going to explore the city from a tourist perspective is completely different than if you were to go with a local. I do love yelp, but it can only get you so far before you start craving more diversity. I have met some really cool cats who live up there. And I have started to see the city with new eyes. I have been to a few spots that I will want to check out again. My photos were captured on a surprisingly sunny day in The City. But, hopefully now that Summer is here, I will get to enjoy many more days like this. xo

On my list of places I want to go are:

Foreign Cinema- They are featuring The Artist, which is a movie I have been wanting to see since it was in theaters last year. The concept of this restaurant is very whimsical, being that you get to dine and catch a flick at the same time. 

Chantal Guillon Macarons- These petite sandwich cookies are the talk of the town right now. They are available in a wide range of flavors and are gluten free (win //win) 

Previous favs have been; basil + strawberry, salted caramel and vanilla + rose.. I'll have to see how this little shop stacks up!

AQ- Women tend to choose a bottle of wine based on the label, I think a restaurant should be no different. First, you should know that I am a sucker for anything with exposed brick. That paired with the views of the interior and the dishes people have instagramed, only heightens my need to go there. 

vintage.. come to mama

new Kate Spade watch.
 I have been on the hunt for a gold with black face for close to 4 months now. 

Who doesn't love a Ouija board? 

Susie Cakes... need I say more?

Top 10 foods to always buy organic- even if you're on a budget

Do you know what your putting in your mouth? Most people will eat conventional produce and not even bat an eye. It's because they are not educated on the harmful pesticides and additives that their food contains. Take a look at my quick guide to clean eating and see for yourself why you may want to pay the extra twenty cents for that Organic basket of strawberries. check out this site for my information.

1. Grains
Conventional grains are known to contain 15 pesticide residues according to the USDA Pesticide Program. They have even been known to carry carcinogens and neurotoxins that are linked to many health problems. Why buy them organic? Organic whole grains can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, stroke and heart disease.


2. Soy, Tofu Edamame

Please be aware that 90 percent of soybeans sold in the United States are genetically-modified. 

According to Dr. Joseph Mercola of the Natural Health Center, “Since the introduction of genetically engineered foods in 1996, we've had an upsurge in low birth weight babies, infertility, and other problems in the U.S., and animal studies have shown devastating effects from genetically engineered soy including allergies, sterility, birth defects, and offspring death rates up to five times higher than normal.” 

Always buying organic soy will ensure that you avoid genetically modified crops as well as neurotoxins such as Chlorpyrifos and Malathion.

3. Milk

If you consume dairy, it’s important to be aware that 20 percent of the milk in the U.S. comes from cows who have received a genetically-engineered hormone called Recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone (rBGH). 

4. Beef

If you eat meat, it’s important to be aware that conventional meat contains hormones, antibiotics, and pesticides. There are pesticides found in meats and poultry because cows and other animals eat feed grown using synthetic fetilizers and herbicides, But the main reason that studies and most experts say you should buy organic meat is because of the dangers of hormones, antibiotics and additives which have been linked to cancer and other harmful heath effects.


5. Apples

They were ranked highest on the list of pesticides in produce. According to Pesticide Action Network’s website  88 percent of conventional apples contain residues of Thiabendazole, a possible carcinogen. Even after a good wash, a conventional apple still contains traces of toxic chemicals. You can avoid these by buying organic apples.

6. Cherries

The USDA Pesticide Data Program found 42 pesticide residues on cherries including carcinogens and neurotoxins that can cause nervous tissue damage. But don’t give up yet! Cherries are a good source of fiber and vitamin C, and they are also full of potassium. Just be sure to check whether your cherries are organic before purchasing them.

7. Peaches

These furry fruits may be tasty, but conventional peaches can contain 62 chemicals that are carcinogens, suspected hormone disruptors, neurotoxins and developmental or reproductive toxins! That’s more than most fruits and veggies! Be sure to make sure your peaches are organic. Craving something sweet but can’t find or afford organic peaches at your store? Buy a conventional cantaloupe. It’s less likely to contain nasty pesticide residue.

8. Potatoes

conventional potatoes often contain neurotoxin chemicals that can cause mental and emotional changes, vision loss and weakness or numbness in arms and legs. Maybe switch to sweet potatoes instead. They are full of antioxidants and are considered a clean vegetable, free of toxic residues.

9. Spinach and Kale

this superfood also tests positive for a whopping 48 pesticide residues found by the USDA Pesticide Data Program. They found that spinach contains carcinogens, neurotoxins and developmental or reproductive toxins.

10. Strawberries

Conventional strawberries can contain many types of pesticide residue including Captan, a probable human carcinogen that causes rats to develop tumors.

Read more

Summer Salads

I wish I had a backyard. 

Somewhere to grow what I want and enjoy planting flowers, to just relax and enjoy life. Summertime always makes me miss having a backyard, because I live for the outdoor dinner parties and sitting under the stars with a cup of tea. I used to have the most beautiful backyard- complete with tomato garden and aloe vera plants. Even though I was only renting the space, I chose to spend the money and upgrade the backyard area .. knowing that when I moved, it would all have to come down.. But the memories are worth it to me. And it is a positive feeling I can relate to from my childhood. Because in California, you can dine under the stars almost all year round and my family was big on that. 

I wanted to share some of my favorite salad recipes, that just scream summer. They are the perfect addition to any outdoor meal and are especially nice when it's too hot to cook! The watermelon one is a new crush of mine. It is perfect for a hot day, when all you want is something refreshing and easy! I highly suggest you put that on your must try list. 

+ Raw Kale and Brussels Sprouts Salad with Tahini-Maple Dressing

Ingredients

• 1 bunch of curly green kale
• 12 brussels sprouts (about 2 big handfuls’ worth)
• 3 tablespoons sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan (use a vegetable peeler to shave the cheese into little strips)
• dash of sea salt

Tahini-maple dressing

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons white miso
• 2 teaspoons maple syrup
• pinch of red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Use a chef’s knife to cut out the ribs of the kale leaves. Chop the kale into small, bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle a dash of sea salt over the kale and use your hands to massage the kale by lightly scrunching handfuls of kale in your hands. Release and repeat until the kale becomes darker in color and more fragrant. Transfer the kale to a medium serving bowl.
2. Chop off and discard the stem end of the brussels sprouts and any discolored outer leaves. Slice the sprouts as thin as possible, then use your fingers to break up any clumps. Add the sprouts to the bowl.
3. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the tahini, vinegar, miso, maple syrup and red pepper flakes. Whisk in the water until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour the dressing over the kale and sprouts and mix well.
4. In a small pan over medium heat, toast the almond slivers, stirring frequently, until fragrant and turning golden (this will take less than five minutes so watch carefully). Add the toasted almonds and parmesan shavings to the salad and toss. Serve immediately.

+ Watermelon and Feta Salad

Ingredients

For the vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 lemons)
• 1/4 cup minced shallots (1 large)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 cup good olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 6 cups baby arugula, washed and spun dry
• 1/8th seedless watermelon, rind removed, and cut in 1-inch cubes
• 12 ounces good feta cheese, 1/2-inch diced
• 1 cup (4 ounces) whole fresh mint leaves, julienned

Instructions

Whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, shallots, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly pour in the olive oil, whisking constantly, to form an emulsion. If not using within an hour, store the vinaigrette covered in the refrigerator.

Place the arugula, watermelon, feta, and mint in a large bowl. Drizzle with enough vinaigrette to coat the greens lightly and toss well. Taste for seasonings and serve immediately

+ Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds small golden beets 
• Cooking spray 
• 1/4 cup orange juice 
• 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 4 cups mixed salad greens 
• 3 cups chopped beet greens (about 3 ounces)
• 1 1/2 cups tangerine or orange sections, halved crosswise (about 8 tangerines)
• 2 tablespoons shaved fresh Parmesan cheese 
• 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped walnuts, toasted

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°.
2. Leave root and 1-inch stem on beets; scrub with a brush. Place beets on a jelly-roll pan coated with cooking spray. Lightly coat beets with cooking spray. Bake at 400° for 45 minutes or until tender. Cool beets slightly. Trim off beet roots; rub off skins. Cut beets in half.
3. Combine orange juice and next 6 ingredients (through garlic) in a medium bowl, stirring with a whisk. Add beets, tossing gently to coat. Remove beets with a slotted spoon, and set aside, reserving orange juice mixture in bowl. Add salad greens and beet greens to bowl; toss well. Place about 1 cup greens mixture on each of 6 salad plates; top each with about 1 1/2 cups beets, 1/4 cup tangerine sections, 1 teaspoon cheese, and 1/2 teaspoon nuts. Serve immediately.