Bela Dubby Bazaar (12/6)

Saturday, December 6th, 2008

Put it on your Saturday "to-do" list... the 4th Annual Holiday Art Bazaar at the local watering hole...aka Bela Dubby! Shop for unique gifts this season at the art bazaar featuring handmade jewelry, ceramics, hand printed tshirts, cool purses & much more. While you're there enjoy a delicious Christmas Ale or creamy cappuccino. Shopping and a drink, sounds like a nice Saturday afternoon! 10am - 5pm

Interested in coming back in the evening? Bela Dubby will feature three local bands Pale Hollow (A blend of Americana and British Pop.), The Plastic Hearts (Glassy-air Rock.) and Apostrophe Catastrophe (Straight up rock music with a 90's influence.)

For more information visit www.myspace.com/beladubby

MORE Holiday fun

Let the cheer continue! Another week and another slew of holiday dinners, specials, events and happenings upon us. Hope you are able to take advantage of some holiday fun & cheer!

Last Chance to Ditch the Relatives Night! (11/29) Enough is Enough! No More Turkey leftovers! Visit the Garage Bar for an evening of fun...they WON’T be serving Turkey ANYTHING! :) Music by DJ Blackbird. www.thegaragebar.net

Home Alone (12/06) directed by Chris Columbus will be showing at the Lakewood Library, 3pm. Free as part of the holiday festivities...Light Up Lakewood! Main Library Auditorium. Rated PG.

Sugarcoat tunes. (12/07) Spend an afternoon with Jazz vocalist Kelly Wright and keyboardist Chris Hanna as they present an hour of Jazz standards. Lakewood Main Library Auditorium. 2pm

North Coast Greyhound Connection (12/20) Stop into Smith & Hawken at Crocker Park this afternoon to meet some retired racing greyhounds looking for their new forever homes. Volunteers will be on hand to give you all the information on owning and caring for the sweet-natured dogs. 12-4pm.

a Table Feast! (11/27)

Thursday, November 26th, 2008

Not going home for the holiday? Not feeling like plowing through the grocery store and cooking for hours on end? head over to the Intercontinentals best kept restaurant secret, Table 45. The restaurant will offer their regular menu from 11am-11pm but more importantly they will be hosting Thanksgiving for only $26! Check out the tasty menu below.

1st Course
Mixed Green Salad with Poached Pears, Candied Walnuts, Dried Sour Cherries and Cranberry Vinaigrette Or Butternut Squash Soup with Toasted Hazelnuts

2nd Course
6oz of Roasted Turkey Served with Sage and Roasted Chestnut Stuffing, Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes, Buttered Brussels Sprouts, Cranberry Sauce and Turkey Gravy

3rd Course
Traditional Apple Pie with Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream Or Pumpkin Pie

sounds great...leave the cooking (and the dishes) to them! For reservations and directions visit www.tbl45.com

Let the cheer begin!

So I don’t know about everyone else...but it’s this time of year where my mailbox fills up with catalogs and invites to holiday party’s and most importantly...open houses. This year I decided try to do a post once a week that lists all of the holiday open houses and sales at local businesses around town. Check out what was in my inbox this week!

Join duoHOME TONIGHT (11/20) at LUXE for their "1 Sies Wine Event." It will be a VERY fun evening, a chance to enjoy the deliciousness (is that a word?) of LUXE and peruse some fun holiday merchandise from duoHOME. Bottle openers, wine bags, bottle jewelry and champagne buckets are just a few of the items duoHOME will be offering in the chic and comfortable setting of LUXE for this special event. Stock Up For Thanksgiving Or Gifts For The Holidays! 4- 8pm $8pp (a steal of a deal!) Thanksgiving Inspired Small Bites. rsvp today for tonight by calling 216.920.0600!

The Spa at Yellow Creek, in Bath OH, invites you to their “HIP Holiday Event,” Thursday December 11th, 6:30pm. Complimentary mini spa treatments, cocktails & hors D’oeuvres. 15% off all products, gifts and services booked. To rsvp email mvaccaro@yellowcreekspa.com

Steve Barry Buick in Lakewood. Visit this local dealership for their 6th annual customer appreciation party. Bring a non-perishable food item as a donation to the Lakewood Food bank. Thursday, December 11th, 2-8p,. While you’re there check out the new Enclave..maybe if you’ve been REALLY good this year santa will bring you one? No rsvp necessary.

Girl Next Door in Rocky River OH, Holiday Happy Hour Shopping Spree, Thursday December 20th, 5-8pm. Join the sisters of style as they bring to you the latest trends in jewelry (one of my favorite local places for a unique piece) and fashion imported from the West Coast. The store is both charming and glamorous, the perfect place to find your holiday party dress. Don’t miss out!

Eclectic Home in Lakewood (next to Borderline Café) invites you to their 2008 Holiday Celebration, Friday the 21st and Saturday the 22nd. While you shop enjoy Mimosa & muffins (8-noon), Punch & cookies (noon-4) and Wine & Cheese (4-9). Purchase $50 or more and recive a 25% off discount coupon to apply to your entire purchase during the week of 12/16-21!

Aveda Crocker Park, Westlake, OH December 1st, 2006, 6-9pm Enjoy sips and snacks while experiencing complimentary exclusive Aveda signature treatments for hair, skin & nails. I hear this is a fun gathering and is one NOT to miss! Thanks for the heads up Karen! :)

Rachel Sings (11/22)

Saturday, November 22nd, 2008

I know I have mentioned her before...but singer-songwriter Rachel Roberts will be performing this Saturday night at Prosperity Social Club in Tremont. Her tunes are mellow, musky and passionate. Her stage presence engaging. Just add perogies from the kitchen and I can't imagine a better evening!

9:00pm, Prosperity Social Club. For more information about Rachel visit www.myspace.com/rachelrobertsmusic

Tuesday FREEBIES (11/4)

Tuesday promises to be fruitful no matter your political persuasion. Here's a little roundup of the free swag you'll get just for voting:

Starbucks! Free tall coffee just for sayin' "I voted."

Ben & Jerry's! Free scoop of ice cream from 5-8 p.m.

Krispy Kreme! Free star-shaped doughnut with red, white and blue sprinkles to each customer wearing an "I Voted" sticker.

Here's how you've gotta work it. Starbucks first, because you only need to say you voted. Then Ben & Jerry's because everyone's getting free ice cream. Then save Krispy Kreme for last because they may nab your "I Voted" sticker, thereby removing any physical vestiges of your voting (just in case any other freebies, like booze, pop up).

Halloween with Nature (10/31)

No plans this Halloween Friday? Interested in the outdoors and in nature? Love to look up at the stars at night?

If you answered "yes" to both, get your ticket to this years Bones, Bugs & Dead Animals Halloween Party at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Enjoy a costume contest, live music by Abby Normal & the Detroit Lean, plenty of food, and $2 cash bar.

Tickets are $25 Nature League members, $30 nonmembers, $35 at the door. For more information visit www.cmnh.org or call the Box Office at (216) 231-1177

Thursday cocktail

It's fall. The air is chilled, the ground echos with the sound of crunchy leaves and the mixed drink menus have been tweaked from tastes of summer mango mojitos to fall ciders and pumpkin brews.

As much as I adore the "Dark & Stormy" from Luxe (www.luxecleveland.com), a mixture of ginger beer, rum and lime...over the weekend I was flipping through the pages of foodie magazines and discovered what could be my favorite fall concoction; shaken not stirred called "a perfect storm."

Hope you enjoy!

1 vanilla bean
1/2 cup super fine sugar
1 ounce ginger beer (Reeds is the best!)
1 1/2 ounces apple cider
2 ounces dark rum

Split a vanilla bean lengthwise, scrape out the inside and add it to the sugar, stir until the sugar is speckled with bits of vanilla. Dip the rim of the glass in water, then in the vanilla sugar to coat. Mix the ginger beer, cider, & rum in a cocktail shaker. Shake. Pour over ice in prepared glasses. garnish with half the vanilla bean.

Sip slowly...it is super yummy! Happy cider. Happy fall. :)

Art Night (10/28)

Tuesday, October 28th, 2008

I read about this event last week and for some reason can't get it out of my head..a MUST share.

Ever taken an art class, ever wanted too? Enjoy the smell of new crayons, colored pencils and charcoal? Like to figure draw? Ever wanted to try? Like Halloween costumes, models and as an added bonus...a drink or two? Well have I got the perfect evening out for you!

Join CIA grads Jason Tilk and Aaron Erb as they present "sketch club for art monkeys" at Beachland Ballroom this Tuesday night. You don't have to be an art fan, just willing to have fun and try something different. The evening will consist of one or two models, a DJ/host and three rounds of poses. (A warm up round of 1 & 2 minute poses, a break, some drinks, some 5 & 10 minute poses, a break, some more drinks, and a few longer poses)



There are a few rules (but nothing like art school rules).
* Dry mediums only, as in ink, markers, crayons, pencils, graphite, pastels, etc. I bought watercolor pencils that I am excited to use!
* Be respectful. That means no pawing at the models and no asking them out.
* No photography at the events.
* 21 and up. This is event is held in a bar.
* Most of all, have fun.

I hope everyone can grab a friend or two and make it out to Beachland. If you need art supplies, I will bring plenty to share!

For more information on the evening of "art" visit www.drsketchycleveland.com

87 West Deals!

Feeling like a little time at Crocker Park this weekend but not really into the whole shopping scene? Instead, find yourself a little nook inside Crocker's infamous wine bar; 87 West and kick back with a few friends to catch up from the week.

On Saturdays, they offer any seasonal Great Lakes Brewery on draft for $3.5 while Sundays you can cure your hangover with a $5 “Sunday Bloody Sunday” Bloody Mary.

If you can’t make it over the weekend, perhaps you can swing it some evening next week? On Tuesdays Margaritas & Sangria are only $6 a glass....while on Wednesday you can get a bottle of their house wine and a pot of cheese fondue to split for $25. A fun night out.

For more 87 West promos, visit www.87west2.com

Fashion for the Cure (10/15)

Wednesday, October 15th, 2008

This Wednesday if you are feeling charitable AND looking for a fashion fix purchase a ticket to the Key to the Cure Kickoff Party at Saks Fifth Avenue.



Cocktails, Hors d'oeuvres from 12 of Cleveland's Finest Restaurants, Balloon Raffle, and Silent Auction. Also, the limited edition t-shirt designed by Karl Lagerfeld will make it's debuts this evening.

6-9pm. Tickets are $50 per person. For more information or to purchase a ticket, please call Jaclyn Chapple at 216.445.3358 or email chapplj@ccf.org Proceeds to benefit Women's Cancer Research at the Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute.

'Bucks vs. 'Bou

If you are like me, you have your favorites when it comes to the big chains of coffee shops.

I tend to gravitate to Starbucks for the fun seasonal treats like the ultra-popular "grande" Pumpkin Spice / Gingerbread Latte but when it comes to the everyday coffee I can't pass up a "medium" from Caribou Coffee.

Starbucks is dark and super strong, Caribou is a bit smoother and less acidic. At Caribou you are welcomed by the warm glow of the rustic interiors, including complimentary fireplace while at Starbucks you can be wowed by the gorgeous promotional signage. Caribou sells the best dark-chocolate covered Graham crackers (in case you forgot to grab breakfast) while Starbucks offers adorable flaky petite vanilla scones (sold in 3's, one for you and two to share).



Unlike some of the independent coffee "peers" consistency is key; buy a double shot- skim- extra hot - americano with a shot of almond in Cleveland and in theory, it will taste the same in Boston, Chicago, LA and Paris! Like it or not, it's a formula, a small addition, a drug.

Both mega caffeine-pushers open early, stay open late and even have some morning holiday hours. They have local events, special tastings and more. Although I truly adore the Northeast Ohio Coffee Entrepreneurs, a cup of coffee from Starbucks and Caribou fits the bill any day with me.

Coffee in the City

If you are looking for a simple (but complex) morning cup of coffee, a pound or two of beans, some cheese and bread...and more...then get your morning java at City Roast coffee. The scent of fresh ground coffee fills the corner of the Westside Market nestled in the city...just close your eyes and follow your nose to the richest coffee scent around.

The team of coffee gurus can assist you in selecting a match of fresh beans to fit your palette. But move quick this retailer is open during normal market hours (Mon. Wed. Fri. & Sat) and you don't want to miss an opportunity to catch a cup of this special stuff.

For more information on City Roast coffee visit them at www.cityroastcoffee.com.

America Runs on Dunkin!

The week of coffee reports continues...

This morning I was in a hurry to get to a meeting and decided to take the "drive-through" approach...Dunkin Doughnuts here I come.

A medium hazelnut coffee, 1 splenda & milk + 2 chocolate doughnut holes. Not only was the coffee very hot with the perfect amount of milk (I wonder how the coffee fairies know how much I like?) it was a brief reminder of my days living in New England. If you have ever visited ME, MA or CT you'll find that New England runs on Dunkin though they must sprinting to the midwest because I see new locations popping up everywhere.



More affordable than the other national chains (my total bill was $1.75...a quarter back!) the bright pink, orange and chocolate brown branding makes this coffee house super-chic and even a bit sassy. Next time you are driving to a meeting and want a good cup of Hazelnut Coffee, drive through your local Dunkin Doughnuts...but good luck leaving without a doughnut! :)

For locations, drinks and specials visit www.dunkindonuts.com

Fall Coffee Week!

As the first week of fall rolls into place, I would like to take this week to explore many of the yummy coffee brews in the Cleveland area. From independents hangouts (Arabica, Pheonix, Gypsy Bean, etc.) to the mega monsters (Starbucks, Caribou & Einsteins) each coffee supplier has something special to offer this fall so take a peak and enjoy the week.

This morning I was up early and after an evening of making my Mom's recipe of pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, I was craving a "grande" fall inspired cup of joe to kick off my week. Einstein Bros. usually has a great fail blend and I wondered if it was out yet...it HAD to be, it is the first official day of fall afterall.



YES! the Autumn Blend had arrived. A slight taste of chestnut intertwined with smooth cinnamon undertones made for a lovely morning coffee fix. There are many Einstein Bros. locations in the Cleveland area, track one down and try it out. (The pumpkin bagels are pretty scrumptious too!) www.einsteinbros.com (very cute website)

Come to "Your Senses" (9/28)

Sunday, September 28th, 2008

Nothing to do on a Sunday evening? Look no more! After an afternoon of Sunday football (Browns play Cincinnati @ 1:00pm) come down to Wooltex Gallery as Angrychick productions presents “An Evening of the Senses!"

Live bands stir up your eardrums, local artists amaze your eyes and Lilly Handmade Chocolates of tremont will tantalize your taste buds and have you sniffing out the chocolate goodness!! Lilly will be serving her newest concoction, Hotte Chocolate (available at this event ONLY-for the time being anyway!) Come experience bliss!

Tickets are $10 in advance and are currently available through the artists & performers. If you’d like tickets, swing by Lilly Handmade Chocolates (www.lillytremont.com) or track down one of these lovely people-Steven Carriker, Corissa Briggs, Rachel Shortt, Julie Stanley, Shawn Kranes, Krisztina Lazar or Henry F. Elliot V.

Doors open at 5:00pm. Music and Chocolate, this could be the best Sunday night ever! :) For directions to the gallery visit www.thewooltexgallery.com

an Absinthe affair (8/28)

Thursday, August 28th, 2008

Since 1912 the green elixir of darkness has been illegal to our country, but guess what? Not any more! Why? You might ask…the government never banned absinthe itself but rather thujone, the wormwood-derived compound that supposedly gives the stuff its trippy edge. However, modern chemical analysis shows that thujone survives distilling in quantities so small they are actually legal. God I LOVE science.



Don’t miss Pier W’s Absinthe tasting, where you can sample an array of once forbidden liquor...experience the "green fairy." If you aren’t in the mood to taste numerous samples of the green delight, a tall glass of bubbly with a shot of absinthe is a perfect nightcap for you. I have drank it once, in a tall champagne flute and I felt like I was right out of a 1940’s French film, super glamorous. I am definitely not going to miss this event, a glamorously-trippy evening perhaps? :)

7:00 pm $20.00 per person. For reservations call 216.228.2250 or visit www.selectrestaurants.com/pier/index.html
Remember "Absinthe makes the heart grow fonder"

Fair time. (8/05-10)

Can you believe it’s August? I can’t. I still have lots of things I need to “get in” to call it an official summer. A game of put put golf at Memphis Kiddie Park. A few more trips out on the Kayaks. Ice cream at Honey Hut and perhaps even an evening of firefly collecting (just kidding...sorta). But most of all summer in Cleveland wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the fair!

The Cuyahoga County Fair runs now until Sunday at the Berea Fairgrounds. Pack your Purell and go to oogle the baby pigs and cows, the best tasting blueberry pies, the gorgeous gladiolas grown-locally and more. General admission is $5.95 (children 3-12 yrs old $4.95) or after 9:30 pm, $3.00. If you want to take a spin on the Ferris wheel or bumper cars (my favorite) ride tickets are $.50 each (2 tickets per ride) or purchase an all-day ride band for just $12.



What could be more summer than a evening at the fair? Cotton Candy (love the sweet smell and baby pink hue) and corn on the cob. Live music and motor sports. Activities for you (flea market) the kids (bubble gum blowing contest) and your strange “uncle Eric” (the great bear show). Add it to this weekend’s list.

For fair schedule, directions and more information visit www.cuyfair.com

Christmas in July (7/25)

Friday, July 25th, 2008

Christmas in July featuring The Ohio City Singers : Every Christmas for the past 5 years The Ohio City Singers gather up friends and family to record a batch of holiday cheer. Tonight the band will perform their FIRST EVER Christmas live show at the Southside in Tremont to celebrate Christmas in July. Yes, a random excuse to be stupid!

The band features a crazy collective of Cleveland musicians including Chris Allen, Doug McKean, Chris Hanna, Tom Prebish, Brent Kirby and Bobby Latina of the Jack Fords, Dan Rose, Austin "Candy Cane" Charanghat, Kelly Wright and many more.

Show time is at an early 8 pm and will consist of classic cuts such as "Egg Nogg", "Real Good Christmas Time" and "White Cleveland Christmas."

For more information visit www.chrisallenmusic.com. For directions to the Southside visit www.southsidecleveland.com

Also, even though last nights Great Lakes Brewing Co. "Christmas (Ale) in July Party" was sold out...if they have any of that liquid gold left over, you may be able to grab yourself a pint or two tonight! It's never too early to celebrate the holidays!

Sip & Stroll (7/10)

Thursday, July 10th, 2008

Sip and Stroll at the Shops of Old River every Thursday night now through September. Visit the unique boutiques, including the Girl Next Door and Paper Trails (www.papertrailstoyou.com) as they stay open later for evening shopping. Sample wines and snacks from some of the area eateries including the new Tartine Bistro (www.tartinebistro.com) and the ever popular Stino da Napoli (www.stinodanapoli.com)

Swing by old river and enjoy a night out with friends!

Cottontail Concert (7/12)

Saturday, July 12th, 2008

(hum to the tune of Peter Cottontail...) Here comes Roxy Cottontail hopping down the B. Side trail hippitty hoppity concerts on it's way. Bringing every girl and boy big night full with party joy hippity hoppy roxy's on her way! :)

"Roxy Cottontail is the woman that every girl rocking Nikes and huge earrings longs to be. Roxy, who also goes by Oxy, is a streetwear fashionista, full-time hustler, and arguably one of New York's best-known promoters. She got into the business by spreading the club sound and making stars out of acts such as Spank Rock and Hollertronix. She also DJs and recently got into producing music for herself. Roxy raps over beats that are a little punk, a little funk, sample-heavy, and undeniably dance-party worthy. Imagine a mix of Peaches, the Rapture, and Gravy Train and you're almost ready for Roxy's set." - flavorpill.net



Don't miss "oxy cottontail" (www.oxycottontail.com) as she spins records at The B-Side Liquor Lounge along with Misterbradleyp - 10pm $10 For more concert info visit www.grogshop.gs

Luau on the Lake (7/12)

Saturday, July 12th, 2008

Now in its 3rd year, Luau on the Lake is a Hawaiian themed event to benefit Shoes and Clothes for Kids. Guests enjoy a feast fit for a tiki god – great food, drinks, sand volleyball, live music and fabulous views of Lake Erie – all to support a great cause! The evening event also features many give-aways and fabulous raffle prizes.



Shoes and Clothes for Kids is the only non-profit organization in Greater Cleveland providing new shoes and clothes to thousands of children in need at no charge throughout the year. Support this worthy organization and get your tickets today. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door for $50 each. The event is heald at Wendy Park at Whiskey Island (2800 Whiskey Island | Cleveland OH 44102)

For additional information visit www.luauonthelake.com

Paper Bird Tunes (7/04)

After you've had your fill, admiring the glitz and glimmer of your neighborhood fireworks, head over to Bella Dubby (Madison Ave, just west of 117th) in Lakewood for an amazing treat for your musical soul...Paper Bird.

Standing firm in no existing genre, Paper Bird's backbone is their songwriting, musicianship, and a general allergy to all limitations and trends. With seven members, and no leader, this band is pulled in every direction imaginable, but thanks to their unique instrumentation, this Denver-based group never reminds you of anyone but themselves.



The band's inception came at a cabin high in the Colorado Rocky Mountains where, the first time they played music together, four songs were written and played to their first audience (passers-by on a street corner in Breckenridge,CO) a few hours later. Within a month they had a seven song demo of all originals and a solid foot in the door of the Denver music scene. They are currently touring with Tour de Fat (www.followyourfolly.com) in a city near you!

The present finds them functioning more as a family than a band. Listen to their music, they will make you happy. Check out the show, they will make you their friend. www.myspace.com/paperthebird

Beer Guy (6/28)

Saturday, June 28th, 2008

Do you know, the beer-delivery man in the Miller High Life commercials? You know, the guy who plays the "Beer Everyman" as part of Miller's campaign to market the once-blue-collar-brewski into a retro-cool elixir. The one who barges into a cafe and proclaims, "$11.50 for a hamburger - ya'll must be crazy!" Or struts into an upscale grocery and barks, "Eight-dollar candy bar - it's prices like these that's keeping folks from living the high life." Or scoffs at some trendy club charging a $20 cover charge - "There's no cover charge for the High Life."

If you think you see the High Life Guy from those Miller ads on television around town Saturday, you're right. Windell Middlebrooks, will be here sharin’ the love around Cleveland, so don't miss him!



The pitchman, who got his start doing skits on Comedy Central and "The Bernie Mac Show," will roam around bars in the Gateway District from 4 to 7 p.m. Then he'll be serving beer at Progressive Field from 7 to 10 p.m., while the Indians take on the Cincinnati Reds. Then, from 10 to midnight, he'll be barhopping on West Sixth Street in the Warehouse District.

A Dinner Date

Fridays through August

"Date Night In the District" is the special promotion that's running in Cleveland's historic Warehouse District every Friday night through August. Restaurants - including Blue Point Grille, Brasa Grill, Cleveland Chophouse & Brewery, Crop Bistro & Bar (fresh & yummy!), D'Vine Wine Bar, Johnny's Downtown (fun & fancy!), John Q's Steakhouse, Mallorca, Nauti Mermaid (when you are feeling like a sailor), Sushi Rock, Waterstreet Grill and XO Prime Steaks -are each offering prix-fixe dinner-for-two promos.



Participating restaurants will offer at least one three-course prix-fixe menu throughout the promotion. Prices will range between $39 and $99 per couple. Number of courses and other details may differ, and prices typically will not include tax and tip. Find most of the menus and complete details on www.datenightinthedistrict.org

FREE Tea drink (6/21)

Saturday, June 21st from 3-4pm

After a long run, bike ride or walk around the block, head to your neighborhood Caribou Coffee for CoolFest 2008. To celebrate the first day of summer Caribou is offering a FREE 12 oz. Fruit Tea drink for anyone who stops by. Not available through the drive thru. No purchase necessary.



Find a participating Caribou Coffee http://view.cariboucoffee-email.com/?j=fe8811707d6c067472&m=fef010797c640d&ls=fdf215797162007d71137877

www.cariboucoffee.com

Straight Up! (6/19)

Thursday June 19th, 2008

Happy National Martini Day Cleveland!

This evening head to your favorite chic bar and sip to the tune of your favorite martini. Whether it be Gin, Vodka or Cosmo, they are all tasty. Enjoy the recipe below! Although this martini will certainly qualify as a standard martini, you'll often find that every bartender will create the drink with a slight (or perhaps not so slight) variation.



Vodka Martini Ingredients (because in my opinion gin tastes like perfume)

3 ounces of freezing Absolut or Grey Goose vodka.
1 teaspoon of vermouth.
3 Big olives stuffed with crumbled bleu cheese.
1 fancy schmancy toothpick.

Combine Vodka & vermoth. Stir. Strain your freezing vodka into your glass. Spear your olives and gently slide them into the glass. Have a seat in your favorite chair. Sip and relax.

Run, Crawl (6/21)

Saturday June 21, 2008

Runners throughout greater Cleveland will be pleased to know that the Cleveland area's most unique urban running event will return to the 2008 summer race calendar. The Ohio City Run & Crawl, an evening 5K run through the streets of Cleveland's historic Ohio City neighborhood followed by a pub and restaurant crawl featuring dozens of local establishments.



The Run & Crawl continues to grow in popularity, with last year's event marking a substantial growth from the inaugural edition in 2006. Hundreds of runners are expected this year to fill the Ohio City streets and take in the sights, sounds and suds of the neighborhood. This year promises to be even bigger, with more establishments offering specials for participating runners, live music in Market Square Park, post-race refreshments, a goody bag for runners, a short-sleeved race t-shirt, and awards for the top finishers in various age groups and categories.

To pre-register for the run, visit www.hermescleveland.com or call 216.623.9933.

Luxe on Detroit

As we approached the Marlin Kaplan's newest restaurant; Luxe, we could feel we were in for a treat. The warm glow from opulent indoor chandeliers reflected onto the street sidewalks and the smell of good food wafted out the front door.



We were seated in the main dining room (you can eat in the bar too...next time) near the old bank vault that had been converted into a wine cellar and the kitchen's glass doors put the chefs and cooks in our full view. The eclectic use of mismatched vintage plates, glasses and silver wear were a pleasant surprise...just like eating at home.

As we inhaled our salads, gnocchi and steak we enjoyed the interesting array of guests that surrounded our table. the people watching was just as yummy as the food itself. The prices were super reasonable and the portions perfect. Next time you are in the mood for trying something new, head downtown to Luxe.

6605 Detroit Ave. Cleveland, OH. For reservation call 216.920.0600 or visit www.luxecleveland.blogspot.com

On the Rise!

As you enter this bright and cheery bakery your senses will immediately come to life. The warm sweet smells, the soft sounds of mixers and the visual delights all laid out and ready for you to explore.



I have enjoyed every muffin, cookie, scone and bread I have ever bought at On the Rise Bakery in Cleveland Heights a tiny and quaint neighborhood bakery. They offer delicious treats including scones, cookies, fruit brownies, rustic tarts, croissants and granola as well as a plethora of house baked bread options. On the list is everything from rustic Italian breads like Pave to classic French baguettes. For something a little more adventurous, try the olive loaf or the sunflower shaped loaf crusted with sesame seeds. They also serve coffees and have a few tables for sitting. This summer, perhaps early on a Sunday morning, grab your paper or favorite book and head East to On The Rise!

3471 Fairmount Blvd Cleveland, OH 44118 216.320.9923

Rachel Roberts (5/24)

Saturday, May 24th 2008

A little bit of rock and roll...a little bit of funk, all rolled into one chic package. That's what you get when you hear Rachel Roberts sing her heart out this weekend at Brother's Lounge on the mainstage.

Rachel has a full summer schedule including performing at the Lakewood Arts Festival (Aug. 2nd); she is a deffinate "one-to-watch." Plus if you have not had a chance to visit "brothers," this would be a great opportunity!

Show kicks off around 10pm on the Musica Hall Main Stage; $5

art FUR animals (5/23)

Friday, May 23rd, 2008

The Friends of the City of Cleveland Kennel is a group of volunteers dedicated to providing the necessary medical & general care for the animals at the Cleveland Kennel in the hopes of giving them a second chance at a good life. Their mission is to provide the necessary medical & general care to the dogs & cats who need it; no animal should be denied that chance because of a lack of funds or help. As well as to raise awareness in the community by providing affordable training & other education to Cleveland residents.

Join them at The Galleria at Erieview (located at 1301 E 9‏th St # 3333, downtown) for an evening art auction and gala to celebrate Cleveland's pets! Tickets $12 in advance, $15 at the door.

Limited edition custom designed ceramic dogs will also be for sale designed by over 20 talented Cleveland artists. Dozens of gallery quality art work up for bid in silent and live auctions. Delicious food & drinks. Music performances from Martini 5-0 & DJ Neil Chastain!



www.friendsofclevelandkennel.com

Silver Spoons (5/15)

Thursday, May 15th, 2008

Don't miss one of Cleveland’s most premier and highly anticipated events, the 14th Annual Cleveland Magazine Silver Spoon Awards Party, featuring over 20 of Northeast Ohio's Silver Spoon award-winning restaurants. Proceeds will benefit the Arthritis Foundation of Northeast Ohio.

> Sample cuisine from over 20 Silver Spoon award-winning restaurants, as featured in the May issue of Cleveland Magazine.
> International vintners pour several of the most delicious wines in the world.
> Spectacular silent auction items, including a hot air ballon ride for two and a stay in a 10,000 sq/ft tropical Mexican Villa that sleeps 12 and includes a pool and full servant service.
> The Private VIP Martini Lounge will be separate from the main event with a unique “see and be seen” vibe. The swanky space will feature signature Ketel One pomegranate and espresso martinis, live jazz entertainment and exclusive cuisine, all of which can be experienced only in this area of the party.

6-9 p.m. InterContinental Hotel 9801 Carnegie Ave., Downtown Cleveland.
For more information visit www.clevelandmagazine.com/ME2/Sites/Default.asp

Free ICED coffee! (5/15)

Thursday, May 15th 2008

Tomorrow is free iced coffee day at Dunkin Donuts, although it may be a bit chilly for "iced," (hi of 60 this weekend) wear your sweater and don't miss out!

Between 10-10. Enjoy! www.dunkindonuts.com

Sushi in the Garden (5/14)

Wednesday, May 14th, 2008

“Zensai” means “entry garden.” In this spirit of welcoming, we invite you to bask in the sophistication and pristine beauty of Japanese horticulture when Cleveland Botanical Garden presents Zensai: The Horticulture of Japan through June 29.

In no way is Japan's rich heritage more evident than its horticulture, and no time is better than spring to admire the Japanese horticultural tradition in all its splendor. Among the beautiful and serene expressions of Japanese horticulture on display will be the Garden’s own permanent Japanese Garden, a Cleveland treasure since 1975 (as old as I am!).

This week, visit the gardens as the Marchetti Company will offer tastings of sake and plum wine from Japan and California along with an assortment of Sushi to choose from.



Cleveland Botanical Garden in University Circle : 11030 East Boulevard Cleveland, Ohio 44106 For more information about this event call 216.721.1600 or visit www.cbgarden.org

Celebrate Cinco (5/05)

Monday, May 5th, 2008

Olé! Happy Cinco de Mayo! (Spanish for "5th of May") The holiday commemorates an initial victory of Mexican forces led by General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín over French forces in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The date is observed in the United States and other locations around the world as a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride. A common misconception is that Cinco de Mayo is Mexico's Independence Day; Mexico's Independence Day is actually September 16 (dieciséis de septiembre in Spanish), which is the most important national patriotic holiday in Mexico.

Although today is THE day to celebrate...there are so many great Mexican food choices around town, you should take the week and celebrate.



Nuevo Acapulco (www.nuevoacapulco.com)
Winner of the 2003 Best Margaritas by Citysearch of Cleveland, this local watering hole will be open late tonight to handle the festivities. With specials on drinks, including the Mango Scarlet Orange Margarita, it is sure to be a wild fiesta. Personally, I love the classic Mexican breakfast, Huevos Rancheros! Get there early, happy hour is from 4-7pm.

Villa y Zapata (www.villayzapata.com)
Looking to explore the heart of the city, visit this authentic family-owned eatery. The margaritas are bright green and the salsa is hot! Scene Magazine has voted them Best Chiles Rellenos in town, so go and try. There might be a line, but the parking lot is always buzzing with folks, great for people watching!

Luchitas (www.luchita.com)
In 1981, Luchita Galindo decided to follow her dream of opening her own business. After years of hard work and perseverance, she and her son Jorge Galindo opened the doors to a small Mexican restaurant on the Westside of Cleveland; their restaurant is Luchita’s Mexican Restaurant. Now with multiple locations around Northeast Ohio, this Mexican favorite will be hopping all week.

El Tango Taqueria
Hungry people, looking to celebrate take note- the food here is tasty, affordable and authentic. Large flour-tortilla burritos are stuffed with choice of meat, chicken, pork, fish or veggies. There's delicious tamale pie con pollo, a daily soup and specials. The wholesome chicken-lime-veggie soup is a meal in itself. BYOB! Located next door to Lakewood High School Field on Madison Ave.

Paladar Kitchen (www.paladarlatinkitchen.com)
The happy hour is offered from 4-7pm in the bar area. Choose from $5 Mojitos & Margaritas, $3 Latin Beer Specials and happy hour portions for under $5. Viva Paladar!

Chipoltle (www.chipotle.com)
For those of us on the run, pull up to your local Chipotle for chips, guac and a corona, or two!

If you have a favorite that I have missed, please feel free to post and spread the word.

Farmers Ball (4/28)

Monday, April 28th, 2008

All are welcome at tonight's North Union Farmers Market Let's Get Fresh Spring Benefit. The North Union Farmers Market is a non-profit community organization that operates and promotes farmers' markets in the greater Cleveland area. The markets sell only food and products grown and produced by local farmers and artisans.

The benefit hosted by ETON Chagrin Boulevard (West Entrance) will feature a feast from dozens of top local chefs, wine and beer stations, musical entertainment by Grupo Brazil and a silent auction. Festivities kick off at 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets start at $80



For more Information call (216) 751-7695 or visit www.NorthUnionFarmersMarket.org

Twilight Tunes (4/25)

Friday, April 25th, 2008

If you went to this years Cleveland Film Festival you probably found yourself humming the catchy tune from the festival's intro trailer written and performed by The Twilight, called "I've Got Love." To check out their other tunes visit www.myspace.com/thetwilightcleveland

This Friday this Cleveland-native band will be performing in at the opening of Matinee Cleveland. The Matinee was started in Akron as a side project, but has evolved in a short amount of time into a main alternative hangout. We are excited to see what they have in store for us!

The Matinee (Cleveland) is located in the historic area of Tremont/Ohio City. The address is 2527 West 25th Street - Cleveland, OH 44113. Show starts at 9pm. For more information visit www.thematinee.net/cleveland/