Say Uncle Nicks for casual New York Greek food

Uncle Nick’s is a crazy little space in Hell’s Kitchen that’s vibrant with patrons and with an energetic staff.  The place consistently puts out unpretentious good Greek food. Whether visiting as a couple or a group, sharing appetizers is a must at Uncle Nick’s.  Some can’t-miss options are the saganaki, or flamed Greek cheese, the […]

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Drinkless in Salt Lake City

So, I’m in Salt Lake City for a conference (nice town by the way).  It’s my first stay in Salt Lake City and I’m here for two days, working hard and playing…very little.  As I picked up my registration packet upon arriving at the venue, the beautiful Grand America, I immediately noticed some interesting information […]

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Casual Indian food at its best at Cinnamon in Morris Plains

Incredible!  One word that describes the aroma as patrons enter Cinnamon Indian Restaurant in Morris Plains, NJ.  The vibrant smell of cloves, cardamom, and yes, cinnamon, permeates the air at this casual restaurant in Morris County to the delight of Indian food fanatics. First, the staff is friendly, helpful and willing to educate Indian food […]

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Wine-Around-the-World Party

Enjoy sampling a variety of wines? Like trying an array of different foods? Hosting a wine-around-the-world party could be the answer. I try to host two such parties every year: one in the Summer and one in the Winter.  The concept is simple: 1) Put together a small group of friends who enjoy wine and […]

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Periyali for good Greek food in an intimate Manhattan setting

Periyali is intimate with its white-draped ceiling, white painted walls and casual tables and chairs. It’s reminiscent of Greece in its looks, the fresh ingredients it uses and the casual demeanor of its staff. The restaurant features French doors at its entrance which can be opened to let some of the patrons dine al fresco. […]

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Mosel Landhaus – The perfect inn for a Mosel River Region wine vacation

Mosel Landhaus – The perfect inn for a Mosel River Region wine vacation

My husband and I are wine lovers and selected Briedern and Mosel Landhaus as a central place to tour the Mosel River Region. What a pleasant surprise it was to arrive at this riverside inn with its welcoming facade. The hosts, Dutch-business-people-turned-inn-keepers, treated us and the other guests like family. They couldn’t have done more […]

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Picture perfect Maine stay at Cabot Cove Cottages

The Cottages at Cabot Cove has been refurbished to a beautiful and comfortable haven on the outskirts of quaint Kennebunkport, Maine.  The cottages are adorable and feature front porches where you can sit, lakeside, and take in all that Maine has to offer. The staff at this property is friendly and warm, and guests are […]

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Opa state of mind and innovative Greek food at Michael Psilakis’ Kefi

The space at this trendy Upper West Side neighborhood spot co-owned by celebrity chef Michael Psilakis features washed wood, bleached walls and a casual feel. The front of the house offers a popular bar area ideal for before-dinner drinks and appetizers. The bar staff is personable and eagerly recommends Greek beers such as Mythos or specialty […]

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Israeli wine anyone? Count me in

Last night, I had the pleasure of sharing a bottle of Israeli Cabernet Sauvignon with some guests at my home.  What was neat about the wine, is that: It was my first taste of Israeli wine – definitely not my last The bottle was recommended by Avi, a wine communications consultant from Ranaana who I […]

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Potluck Sourdough Sandwich

Condiment Salad: Artichoke hearts 6 ounce jar of pimentos 1 cup black olives 1/2 cup green olives 2 garlic cloves Sandwich: Loaf of round sourdough bread Swiss cheese sliced American cheese sliced Boiled ham Salami Provolone Pastrami For salad: Puree the mixture in blender until well incorporated.  Transfer to a bowl and coat with olive […]

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