Disposable Income

Lisa Brown Atlanta- Closing its doors :(

2009-04-14T14:14:00.004-04:00

So sad, Lisa Brown Atlanta is such a great store- they will be missed! Make sure you visit them this week and next week to stock up on jeans, tops, dresses, etc. Everything in the store is 50% off. I would go ASAP so that you can get the best selection.
Thanks for a great store Lisa!

6301 Roswell Rd NE
Atlanta, GA 30328
(404) 255-4949

Gilly Hicks- Online Store now open!

2009-04-08T13:24:00.005-04:00

Gilly Hicks (Abercrombie's answer to Victoria's Secret and Gap Body- see past post) recently opened their e-commerce site!

Check them out and stock up on adorable unmentionables (well, I guess I did just mention them). So many cute things- I especially love their camis and the signature scent- La Perouse.

http://www.gillyhicks.com

New Consignment Shop- Labels Resale Boutique

2009-04-07T10:25:00.009-04:00

Ok, you need to check this place out! I've lived in Atlanta for over 4 years and I had yet to find a good consignment shop with decent brands up until yesterday. Labels Resale Boutique in Buckhead (by the Whole Foods and across the street from Richie Arpino Salon) is amazing. They have tons of high end brands at ridiculously low prices. On top of that, they are very good about editing what comes in, so all the items I saw were in amazing shape. Anne Fontaine tops, 7 and True Religion jeans, Monolo and Prada shoes, BCBG tops and dresses, lots of organic tees (which are brand new and $10-$15).

When I was there yesterday they had a ton of Anthropologie items that were just brought in- I got an awesome skirt for $20 that looked like it had never been worn (I heart long skirts). In addition to the skirt I got a La Rok cropped jean jacket that was only $15 (it was probably over $200 when it was new) and a kick ass snake ring. After I trading in 2 pairs of jeans and a cotton skirt, I only ended up paying $6 for all three of these items.

The store works like a regular consignment shop- you can bring in your stuff to sell on consignment, or you can bring in and trade (what I did) or you can outright sell it. As you would guess, if you sell on consignment, you can get more $ for your items, but you have to wait for them to sell. If you trade for other items in the shop you get a little less for them, but you also walk out of the store with something new. And lastly, if you take the cash, you get the least amount for you clothes, but you do get $. I personally like the trade option.

So make sure you stop by and bring any of your high-end jeans, tops, dresses, etc. that you don't wear anymore and walk out with fun new stuff! Trust me, this blows Plato's Closet or Psycho Sisters out of the water. I will be taking my mom when she comes in May for sure. I highly recommend checking Labels out.

Labels Resale Boutique
202 Paces Ferry Place
Atlanta, GA 30305
404-446-6700

(photo source- Labels website)

Salon Review (and free deal!)- Richie Arpino Salon

2009-03-26T13:36:00.003-04:00

A few weeks ago, I went to Richie Arpino salon for a deep conditioning treatment and a haircut.

(Check out this blog for an amazing FREE deal on a deep conditioning treatment plus 20% off all other services now through the end of March at Richie Arpino- Jessica Shops Atlanta. I don't want to take any credit for this offer since it is through her site, so check out the blog and support Jessica Shops. It is a great site to bookmark).

I will say that I had a really positive experience. Everyone at the salon were very friendly and it wasn't snooty or intimidating, like many salons around the city who like to think they are tragically hip. The vibe was very warm- stylists and clients were all taking about TV and current events all together. It didn't feel like a "hair factory" which many larger salon are guilty of.

I actually had Richie himself cut my hair (I felt very special). He did a great job and listened to what I wanted. He did take off a little more than I expected at first, but overall I am really happy with the haircut. I would recommend checking them out if you need a new stylist.

Richie is known all over Atlanta and has been featured in a TON of magazines as well as a stylist for the TBS show Movie and a Makeover.
I also found out that he is a talented photographer and was impressed with his work behind the camera as well as his "work" on my head :)

Salt Sunglasses

2009-03-24T10:26:00.004-04:00

OK, I am sorry I haven't posted in a while. Things have been really crazy, amongst other things, I moved (yay Toco Hills).

After wearing glasses for over twenty years (I got my first pair in kindergarten. They were blue with the Pink Panther on the sides. And yes, my mom has saved them all these years) I finally got contacts. Now, besides being totally overjoyed that I don't have to wear glasses all the time, I am also ecstatic that I can buy any pair of sunglasses I want, without having to get them made with custom lenses.

I have always wanted a pair of aviators and found the most perfect pair at Salle Opticians at Phipps. They have an amazing selection of high-end designer frames and sunglasses. Additionally, their staff actually know what they are talking about (though I will say not super friendly).

The pair I ended up getting is made by this great independent company out of California called Salt Optic. Their sunglasses are worn by all the stars and have been in tons of magazine. I have to admit, I had never heard of this brand, but am now a huge fan. Check out their site to learn about how much effort and detail go into each pair. I think they are worth the $$ for sure. I got them because I just love how they look, but after reading about the company, I am very happy to have purchased such a well-crafted pair of glasses. Now I just need to pray that no one sits on them!

CYOA at Shaun's tonight PLUS a chance to win 50% off!

2009-03-12T10:05:00.004-04:00

Do you miss those "Choose Your Own Adventure" books? Haven't you wished that you could do that in real life?

Finally, as an adult, you can! And it will be even better than you imagined because it involves wine and food from Shaun's! Take a gander:

Choose your own wine country adventure with winemakers Kate

Michaud of Covey Run and Jeff Stewart of Buena Vista.

$60 per person plus tax and gratuity, wines inclusive in pricing.

Reception at 6:30, seated at 7:00.

Appetizer

Cauliflower soup, green garlic, smoked trout, buckwheat sprouts

Covey Run Riesling

Warm brussels sprouts salad, sweetgrass dairy goat cheese, guanciale

Buena Vista Chardonnay

Intermezzo

Lemon ricotta raviolis, wild nettle pesto

Buena Vista Pinot Noir

Ricotta gnudis, wild mushroom broth, jasmine

Covey Run Gewuritztraminer

Entrée

Porchetta, sea island red peas

Covey Run Cabernet

Amish chicken, grits, turnip greens, pot likker

Buena Vista Merlot

Dessert

Parsnip cake, white miso ice cream

Reserve Semillon Ice Wine

Lemon curd, homemade graham cracker crumbs

Covey run Late Harvest Riesling

This all happens TONIGHT so don't delay in making reservations!

Don't want to among one of the common folk at dinner tonight? Would you prefer the DI treatment? Fine. The first two people who write me at Disposable Income and mention this post will get 50% of tonight's dinner for themselves and a guest!

Amazing Designer Discount Site- Gilt.com

2009-03-02T13:46:00.005-05:00

This site is fantastic! It is a members-only shopping club that gives you access to designer sales each day that are over 70% off regular price-It is like an online sample sale every day. How it works is that each day, they pick 3-4 designers to feature at 12 noon (ET). The sale continues for 36 hours or until they sell out. Here is the blurb the site gives:

Gilt Groupe provides fashion enthusiasts online access to designer fashion from top brands at sample sale prices.

You'll find apparel, accessories and jewelry for Women, Men and Children at prices up to 70% off retail.
All items are guaranteed to be authentic and sourced directly from the brand.

Just to give you an idea of the brands, here are just some of the ones coming up this week- Marc by Marc Jacobs, Kooba, Oscar de la Renta, Just Cavalli, 7 Jeans, Gryson, White and Warren ... and those are less than half of the sales that will be going on this week.
I recently bought a Me & Ro bracelet for 70% off. Yay!
Since it is members only, I am inviting you to join now for free. I promise you will be addicted. Just click on this link to register:

http://www.gilt.com/invite/annaavery

Threading and Henna at Lenox?

2009-02-26T14:16:00.004-05:00

While GrabMol and friends are having a very frugal week (that is an understatement!), I just got tricked into spending $6 on a cup of tea at Teavana. I think Grabmol spent less on food in the last 3 days than I did on that stupid drink.
Anyway.... I digress....

While drinking my overpriced beverage at Lenox, I did see that they opened a new store, Da Arches, that specializes in threading, waxing and (so excited!) henna tattoos. It looks like there are other locations around the city, but the Lenox location is across from Crate and Barrel on the lower level (behind Wolf Camera).

I have several friends in NYC that swear by threading. Basically it is a hair removal method that uses a little string to pluck out unwanted hair. Click here if you want to know more about the process. Everyone says that it hurts much less than plucking or waxing and is more precise. I must admit I haven't tried it myself, but have heard great things about the method.

I am excited to try the henna tattoos that they offer. Click here to learn more about henna. Basically it is a plant-based "dye" that is applied to the skin in an intricate pattern that last from 2-3 weeks. Henna tattoos are popular all over the Middle East, Morocco, India, Iran, especially for the wedding ceremony. I love all things Middle Eastern (take that however you want... :) ) so I have always wanted to get a henna tattoo (maybe not as elaborate as the picture above), since I would NEVER get a real tattoo (come on, I'm Yenta Girl!) The prices are really reasonable at Da Arches. I am thinking about going to get one soon, so I will make sure to report back.

$30/week Challenge - Day 1

2009-02-24T11:33:00.002-05:00

The first day seemed pretty daunting. Eating on less than $5 a day hardly seemed possible. I was nervous.

I wasn't the only one who was skeptical. One person in a meeting told me flat out, "You won't last a day." Thanks for the vote of confidence, guy!

Nevertheless, I wasn't off to a bad start.

Instead of getting ready and then grabbing a latte on the way to work, coffee was brewed at home for about 20 cents a cup.

mmm...home brewed!

It was actually quite nice to drink coffee at home. It made me feel like that time in the morning where I sit in bed and hit refresh on Facebook for 10 minutes straight ("Hello?? Where is everybody?!") wasn't wasted.

For breakfast, I ate some of the corn flakes I bought for only $2.70 for a 1 pound box! In fact, it was sooo good, I had it for lunch. (Either that or I didn't get my shit together to pack a lunch the night before.)

seriously - this box is HUGE!

When I went for seconds during lunch, I began to gaze longingly at the sliced nectarines in the picture on the corn flake box. Man, I really wanted one. (I kind of still do, actually.)

By the time the end of the day rolled around, I was so hungry. I probably need to plan better, as corn flakes don't really stave off hunger.

For dinner that night, Extraface and I cooked up some beans and rice. I was so hungry at this point, I was hovering over the stove, stealing beans from the hot pan and burning my mouth.

don't worry - I didn't let that dog get any of MY dinner!

By the time I ate the beans and rice, it felt close to the best meal I'd ever had. I was that hungry. (I'd like to point out that my hungry probably had more to do with poor food choices on my part than the amount of money spent. In fact, I'm sure Tami - who made a mushroom and spinach burrito for dinner on her Day 1 - did not experience the hunger pangs that I had. I didn't get too creative with my food.)

mmm...gotta love the beans!

Day 1 Totals

Breakfast: Coffee & corn flakes at $1.30

Lunch: Corn flakes and diet cokes at $1.32

Dinner: Beans & rice at $1.03

TOTAL: $3.65

Full disclosure: I did have some Starbursts from a coworkers candy stash and a homemade cookie for dessert that was given to me as a gift. I feel that these shouldn't count towards the total but feel free to debate within the comment section!

$30 a week Challenge

2009-02-23T07:39:00.004-05:00

When Tami of Running with Tweezers asked if anyone was interested in participating in a challenge to only spend $30 on food for a week, I was totally on board. The $30 is a small bump up from the $23 national average per person that those receiving federal assistance receive for food per week.

doesn't seem like much, does it?

This couldn't come at a better time for me as, lately, I've been spending money on food with wild abandon. A not out of the ordinary day for me can look like this:

Breakfast: Latte & oatmeal from Starbucks at about $7

Lunch: Soup and fruit from Metro Fresh at about $13

Snacks: Diet cokes and/or some cereal from the work cafeteria at about $3

Dinner: Delivery ordered from Zifty.com at about $20

TOTAL: $43

Spending like this puts me at almost 10 times my budget this week - and that doesn't even include what I would spend to eat out on the weekends. Oy.

Yesterday, Extraface (who is also participating) and I went to the grocery store for some cheap eats for this week. We got some bread, peanut butter, beans, and corn flakes.

I'll document my participation on the challenge here. Anyone have any ideas on how to keep my spending on food down this week? How about any ideas on how to get fruit and veggies in?

Food 101 Morningside & Zaca Mesa Wine Pairing Dinner

2009-02-21T16:48:00.005-05:00

I got the heads up on a really yummy wine pairing dinner that Food 101 Morningside is putting on next month:

"Food 101 Morningside is partnering with Zaca Mesa Winery & Vineyards (Santa Ynez Valley, CA) to feature a 5-course dinner paired with Zaca Mesa's award winning wines. Zaca Mesa is a Santa Ynez Valley estate winery dedicated to Rhone varieties. Since 1972, they have hand crafted wines from grapes grown in their vineyards to express their distinct character and genuine quality, offering you a unique experience to share. In 2007, Wine & Spirits named Zaca Mesa the Estate Winery of the year.

Chef Ron Eyester, Food 101, and Mike Ramsey, Zaca Mesa, will be presenting their dishes and wines. The dinner is only $65 for the 5 paired courses and is on Wednesday, March 4th at 7pm"
(Scroll down to see the menu for the night.)

I am going to be there and hope to see some Disposable Income readers there, as well!

As a thank you for coming, All DI readers (and ONLY DI readers) will be entered into a drawing for a free bottle of Zaca Mesa's Z3. Just be sure to mention that you heard about the dinner through Disposable Income when you call the restaurant (404.347.9747) to make reservations.

________

Zaca Mesa Winemaker’s Dinner at Food 101 Morningside Wednesday March 4, 2009

George’s Bank Scallops
Red Curry Aioli & Apricot Chutney

Zaca Mesa Viognier 2007

________________

Benton’s Country Ham & Goat Cheese Ravioli
Spiced Pear Butter & Ashland Farm Arugula

Zaca Mesa Chardonnay 2007

___________________

Fricassee of Duck Confit
Pearl Onions, Baby Fennel & Riverview Farm Grits

Zaca Mesa Roussanne 2006

_________________________________

Lamb Meatloaf
Sweet Potato Hash & Balsamic Mushroom Jus

Zaca Mesa Z Cuvee 2005

____________________________________________

Brioche French Toast Sandwich
Nutella, Sage & Blackberry Syrup

Zaca Mesa Syrah 2004

______________________________________________________

executive chef/partner ron eyester

$65 per person + Tax & Gratuity

Orla Kiely at Target!!!

2009-02-17T14:41:00.005-05:00

I was ecstatic to hear that Orla Kiely was going to be designing kitchen and home items for Target this spring. But my excitement pales in comparison to my dear friend LD, who is a Orla Kiely aficionado and huge fan. I invited her to review the new line and loop us in on where to find these items here in Atlanta, as the line is now available online and in stores:

As YentaGirl knows, I am a big Orla Kiely fan. Her classic handbags are cotton with PVC coating, but she has spread out to leather bags as well. Her line also includes wallets, cosmetic bags, clothing, housewares, and stationery. She's fashionably taking over the world in a big way, and her new line at Target is proof! Check out her website.

Check out a NYC blog about her new line of Target tableware. The line includes melamine and ceramic cups, plates, bowls, serving pieces, and more! Keep in mind that the melamine pieces are not microwave safe and are only dishwasher safe in the top shelf. That key piece of information led me to buy 2 apple & pear plates and hang them on my kitchen wall. They look super cute, but I'm too attached to my microwave to use them as plates. I did get a couple coffee mugs that are ceramic (hence microwave safe).

So far, the tableware line is available at Atlanta-area Targets - it's definitely at the Caroline Street location off of Moreland and on 18th Street near Atlantic Station, but they were already running low! The housewares line will include pillows, doormats, storage containers, and kitchen linens - not yet available in Atlanta.

And if you're looking for a handbag, check out Star Provisions on Howell Mill. Besides an amazing selection of housewares, cheese, desserts, charcuterie, and more, they also have an entire wall of Orla Kiely bags!

Taste Boutique giant sale!

2009-02-12T16:47:00.002-05:00

'Nuff Said. Check them out when you are at Atlantic Station using your 20% off coupon for H&M. I love this store- they have a great selection of tops, jeans and unique jewelry. Def worth checking out, especially now that they are having a fab sale.

H&M Discount!!! Yay for Coupons

2009-02-12T16:37:00.004-05:00

Even more of a reason to shop at H&M! Click here for a 20% off coupon on the bottom right of your screen. Their prices are ridiculously low, so now you have no excuse not to check them out at Atlantic Station. I think H&M is the perfect place to get a cute new outfit for a party this weekend or a Valentine's Day (night?) outfit. Now if Atlanta could get a Top Shop then we would be set.
Enjoy!

Woo Skincare and Cosmetics- New Store!

2009-02-09T12:12:00.004-05:00

I recommend you check out Woo Skincare and Cosmetics in Buckhead. They are a new make-up boutique (in the same vain as Entebello and Tracey Ewell). I was very impressed with the general knowledge of the staff and the well-edited selection of products.

If you read my post on Bobby Brown concealer, it was their staff that took the time to help me find the right shade and taught me how to apply it properly. What I think sets Woo apart from a Sephora or mall make-up counter is the personalized attention. I also like the relaxed atmosphere and they offered me a warm cup of tea right away, which was a really great plus!

As for the selection of products Woo has many of better cosmasutical lines like Skinceuticals (I got their eye balm, it is amazing), Darphin, DDF, Perricone, Peter Thomas Roth, Caudalie, etc. For cosmetics, they carry Bobby Brown (of course), YSL, Darphin, and several others. I also thought Woo had a really great selection of hair care lines.

In addition to their boutique, they also have a wonderful skin spa. I personally haven't tried any of their services, but their prices are very reasonable and they are one of the few places in town that have diamond micro-derm abrasion. Comment if you have had one of their services, I would love to hear about your experience!

Check them out:
Peachtree Battle Shopping Center
2339-A Peachtree Rd
Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 477-5000

Blow-out HELP!

2009-02-02T09:47:00.004-05:00

So on Saturday, I wanted to get my hair shampooed and blown out. Of course I could do this myself, but it NEVER looks as great as when a professional does it.
ME + Round Brush + Blow-dryer = rats nest hair. It isn't pretty and I end up just using the idiot-proof flat iron.

I called around to get general prices and most places were $35. I did find one salon that charges $65 for JUST A BLOW OUT!!! Vidal Sassoon in Lenox...are you nuts??? You are in a mall for goodness sake! I can get a haircut at Carter Barnes for less than that! Am I paying for the extra "O" in your name? What gives??
I almost laughed at the girl when she said $65. I actually called back later to double check.

Now I don't mind spending a few dollars on this, but I would love to find a place that charges less than $35. HELP! Can you all suggest some great places that charge a little less? Or throw in some kind of fun perk? Note- I'm not a huge fan of the Aveda Institute because they are always booked and their talent can be hit or miss (which I totally understand, they are a school). I would like to see if you all can come up with any other.
Can you help!?

In local coffee news

2009-02-02T04:20:00.004-05:00

Latte Deliciousness: If you haven't been to Danneman's and tried out their Salted Caramel Latte, you are missing out! Co-owner Kate Pedrick created this latte after reading that Obama loves salted caramel candies. It is super good!

mmm!

No glove, no love: Aurora Coffee is now carrying reusable coffee gloves handmade with love by friend of Disposable Income, Glue & Glitter.

the lovely little coffee glove display

The coffee glove is being sold at both the Little 5 Points and Highlands locations. I recently stopped in to the Aurora in the Highlands to pick up some for me and a bud:

cute, huh?

There is a reason why Siren songs should be ignored

2009-01-30T12:38:00.003-05:00

Typically, I'm not one to get any of the baked goods that Starbucks serves. In fact, I usually don't buy any food there, although I do enjoy their oatmeal from time to time.

This morning, however, I could not resist the siren song of the Reduced-fat Banana Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake. It looked tasty with its chocolate chips sprinkled throughout and, while I know that reduced-fat baked goods still have plenty o' fat, it was still reduced-fat. So, I couldn't feel SO horrible about it - right?

at least the latte was good

Oy. I will not be ordering it again. It was moist and cakey, as coffee cake should be. But, the overpowering fake banana taste could not be surmounted. Blech.

Don't let the siren song of chocolate chips and reduced-fatness trick you, people!

A foodie's worst fear realized

2009-01-29T23:39:00.005-05:00

Food Poisoning.

Yeah, it doesn't get much worse than that.

Over the holidays, I decided to check out one of the newish restaurants to hit Atlanta. I was excited, tried a lot of dishes, and got very, very sick later that night. So sick, in fact, that I didn't leave my bed for several days. It was miserable. (On the bright side, it did give me uninterrupted time to watch all of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia in one sitting!)

I should point out that my date also got sick that same night. Which is why I feel positive it was food poisoning from the restaurant.

a picture from the offending restaurant

Almost everyone I talked to asked me if I got in touch with the restaurant to let them know. Some even asked if I contacted the health department. It was my intention to do both but, instead, I did neither. Through the worst of it, I was just too ill to do it. Then, once I was feeling better, there was much to catch up on. Plus, the holidays were over and, with work starting, I let it go. They're all excuses but also somewhat valid, I think.

So I began to wonder what other people have done in similar situations. Have you gotten food poisioning? What did you do about it? Did you contact the restaurant or the health department? What do you think I should have done?

a scene from the happier times that fateful night

Sad News- Tracy Ewell Store Closing!

2009-01-29T11:15:00.007-05:00

I have been really happy about all the sales and great deals out there... but my tune changes when great people with a beautiful vision are forced to close their stores due to the economic times. Sadly, Tracy Ewell Cosmetics and Skincare are closing their doors very soon. Go ahead and visit them for last minute make-up tips and to stock up on some of your favorite products that are now on sale.

Tracy and Natalie- you will be greatly missed and we wish you the best of luck on your next endeavors!!!

We are offering 50-75% off the following:

Caudalie (body care)

Select FACE STOCKHOLM items

Lexi Lu Jewelry

Charles Albert Jewelry

Lamp Berger (we mostly have lamps)

Makeup Brushes

Pursekets

Makeup Bags

Purses

Better get 'em while they're still around! Closing has been the hardest thing Natalie hand I have ever done. Everyone has been so kind with their hopes and wishes for us. We want all of you to know we love you and are grateful for your undying support!

Our hours are 10-6pm Tuesday-Saturday. Call if you need to come in later

We hope to see you very soon

Tracy & Natalie

New Wave of Pricing?

2009-01-29T11:09:00.004-05:00

Check out this article.... It will be interesting if prices in the coming year really do shift.

A Glimpse of the Future of Luxury: Expect Lower Prices, Bargain Outlets, More Outsourcing

-source: Wall Street Journal, January 29, 2009

What to do this weekend- SHOP!

2009-01-22T09:47:00.005-05:00

Here are 4 great opportunities going on this weekend:

1) Don't forget about the Local Designer Trunk Show this weekend. Click here for more information. Try to stopping by to support some amazing local artists and see what they have created for spring.

NOTE! There is a venue change for this event-
It is now being held at Vino Libro in Glenwood Park:
933 Garrett Street
Atlanta, GA 30316

2) And so it begins.... the parade of Boutique Warehouse sales for the winter season kicks off this weekend. This one is being held at Atlantic Station, above Z Gallery. Over 25 local boutiques are participating and this is a great way to stock up on gorgeous items at ridiculously low prices. And although stores are starting to push out their winter merch and bring in sundresses for spring... it is still 20 degrees outside. So you will get lots of wear out of the items that are being sold at this warehouse sale.

3) Both Saks and Neimans have done their final mark-downs of the winter this past week, so swing by for some really low prices. Granted, the selection will be really, really picked through, but if you are willing to put in the time, you may find some great stuff.

4) Taste Boutique in Atlantic Station is doing "Half Store, Half Off" starting today. I believe this includes not only winter items, but their new spring merchandise. I would def check them out. They always have a really well- edited selection of premium designers.

Miracle Concealer- I kid you not!

2009-01-14T13:07:00.008-05:00

I think one of the things that bothers me about my complexion are the dark circles under my eyes. No matter how much water I drink, potions I slather on (my derm says there is nothing you can put on that can fix them) or how much sleep I get, I always have these purple circles plaguing me.
My sweet friends all say they have never noticed, but I'm not buying it. Up until this point, I have not found a concealer that does a good job of covering up the circles. They are either too cake-y, too yellow, not heavy enough, too sticky... I could go on and on.

BUT I have now found the best concealer product in the world (yes, that is a bold statement, but I am making it).
Bobby Brown Concealer kit plus Corrector. Ok, it take 2 products, but it is worth every penny and the extra 10 seconds.

I went to Woo Skincare and Cosmetics in Buckhead (more on them in a later post) and had a crash course in concealer. The lovely make-up artist explained that almost all concealers out there have a yellow base. And when you have very dark circles (blue or purple), layering on a yellow concealers just makes them drab and greenish (think back to kindergarten- yellow + blue makes green).

Bobby Brown as identified this flaw and has made a Corrector product that you put under the concealer as a base. It has more of a peach color and cancels out the blue circles.
Here is what her site says:

"For very dark circles and extra coverage Bobbi's secret is her Correctors. Designed to be layered under your regular, yellow-based concealer shade, Correctors come in Bisque and Peach shades. Bisque neutralizes pinky-blue undereye darkness and is ideal for most skin tones. Peach neutralizes purple-brown undereye darkness common in olive, golden and tan skin tones. Use the Corrector daily or just when you need extra coverage."

I am a bisque and use that under the Bobby Brown concealer. The concealers comes in a little kit with a traditional creamy concealers and then a powder to set everything. The creamy concealer goes on very easily because of the great texture and the setting powder does a good job of keeping it in place all day:

"This kit includes Creamy Concealer on top and Sheer Finish Loose Powder on bottom to set concealer for long-lasting wear. This concealer has skin conditioning ingredients like Vitamin A, which helps minimize the appearance of fine dry lines and wrinkles and Vitamin E, which moisturizes and provides antioxidant protection."

I went out last night and when I came home and looked in the mirror, my make-up still looked fresh like I just did it!

I'm sold- Check out Woo for a great experience and color match.
Peachtree Battle Shoppping Center
2339-A Peachtree Road
Atlanta, GA 30305
404.477.5000

New Tazo® Tea drinks at Starbucks + a DI Giveaway!

2009-01-13T12:51:00.002-05:00

If you've been to Starbucks lately, you've probably seen the new Tazo® Tea drinks on the menu. According to a friend at Starbucks, these drinks are super healthy for you:

"Loaded with antioxidants, which are essential to protecting the body's immune system, tea makes for the ultimate soothing and good-for-you beverage.

Most of Starbucks new tea offerings are less than 200 calories for a tall size (12 fl oz) and provide more antioxidants than an 8-ounce glass of orange juice. (Starbucks Black Tea Latte has more than three times the amount of antioxidants than orange juice!)"

If you're not sure whether these new drinks are something you would like, you can try a sample for free today at 2pm at all company-operated locations in Atlanta. (That means everything but the locations at Target, hotels, etc.)

To celebrate their new drinks, Starbucks is offering a giveaway to a few lucky Disposable Income readers: two $10 gift cards (so two readers can enjoy tea with a friend) and five one-time-use cards good for one complimentary cup of tea!

I'm gonna make this super, super easy! The first two people who write me at Disposable Income and mention this post will be the lucky recipients of the gift cards. The next five who write me at Disposable Income and mention this post will be the lucky recipients of the one-time-use cards good for one complimentary cup of tea. So write me now!

Pizza Fusion pinch hits lunch

2009-01-12T22:13:00.000-05:00

Running out for errands during the lunch hour has its perks. Like grabbing lunch from H&F Bread Co.!

There were three sandwich choices - ham, fried turkey, and roasted beets - and everyone in my lunch party (Yenta Girl, Rachel, & I) fancied the beet sandwich. To our great consternation, there was only enough roasted beets to make one sandwich and none of us were too excited by the other choices.

Can I vent for a moment here? I love Holeman & Finch and adore the baked goods that come out of H&F Bread Co. but I'm feeling dismayed by their lunch. Why don't I get those weekly lunch menus I signed up for? What is going on with their website? And out of their veggie sandwich during (what appeared to us, anyway) a slow lunch on a Monday? Lame. Okay, yes, this is sacrilege for me to be saying this about anything related to Holeman & Finch but - come on!

Alright, I'm done venting. Thanks for letting me get that off my chest. I feel better already!

Luckily for us, Pizza Fusion is now open right up the block from H&F Bread Co. So, we decided to give it a go.

Pizza Fusion is a national pizza chain in 12 states and their first location for Georgia is the one on Peachtree right up the block from the Aramore. The chain prides itself on its gluten-free offerings (pizza, brownies, and beer), as well as its earth friendly attitude. From their website:

"While you might see Pizza Fusion as a fun place to eat delicious food, we see ourselves as players in the transition to a healthier, cleaner society. It’s this desire to make a difference that lead us to deliver our food in company-owned hybrid cars, purchase renewable energy certificates to offset 100% of our power consumption and build LEED certified restaurants, among many other environmental initiatives."

the bar at Pizza Fusion

All three of us decided to take advantage of their lunch special where $9.99 buys you a personal pizza, a side salad, and a drink. And, possibly due to the small lunch crowd, the pizzas where ready in 15 minutes.

my personal pizza - a veggie with no cheese
yeah, I said no cheese. deal.

I'm happy to report that it was pretty good. It's not going to change your life but there is no denying the fresh ingredients and toppings. Yenta Girl even noted that the pineapple on her pizza was fresh and not from a can. And for those who cannot eat gluten, this pizza will be a refreshing sight. (At least when it's available.)

Pizza Fusion
2233 Peachtree Rd.
Atlanta, GA 30309
404.351.9334
www.pizzafusion.com

Sunday Bruncheon at Pura Vida

2009-01-11T20:03:00.004-05:00

In our quest to find more places that do brunch and booze, we tried out the brunch at Pura Vida this morning. Pura Vida has been serving brunch for the past few months but it still seems like a well-kept secret, as the crowd was minimal.

the only picture I got of the coveted mimosa was with my phone for twitter.
clearly, I have priorities.

I thought the brunch was fantastic, really. The tapas are a nice change of pace for the typical brunch in town. You'll still get your eggs, meat, and potatoes fix - just with a twist.

tortilla espanola "deconstructed": fried potatoes, pearl onion confit,
slow cooked eggs & pimenton de la vera

fried papitas con sofrito: potatoes, onions, peppers & garlic

And, if you're more of a sweet tooth bruncher, they have quite a few delicious options for you.

ETK proudly displays the sweet corn masa pancakes with the citrus pilon sugar syrup

pineapple roll french toast with bananas, currants, and coco cajeta espuma

For something that you won't find at other typical Atlanta brunch spots, Pura Vida has yuca fries, shrimp ceviche, and caramelized maduros that were all quite scrumptious.

in the background is the partially devoured ceviche "a la piedra": sizzling shrimp ceviche,
yuca, onions, cilantro & cirtus aji broth
in the foreground is the churros con chocolate

yuca fries with rocoto ketchup and cotija crema

carmelized maduros with mexican cajeta, fried peanuts, and goat cheese foam

No complaints at brunch today! Only full bellies and satisfied faces.

Pura Vida
656 North Highland Ave.
Atlanta, GA 30306
404.870.9797
www.puravidatapas.com

brunch + mimosas = no other way to live

2009-01-08T22:19:00.003-05:00

My friends and I have turned one impromptu bruncheon date into a standing affair every Sunday. There are plenty of good places for brunch in town (places that do NOT have the word "biscuit" in their name) but, you see, we're a bunch of lushes. We need alcohol to have a good time and brunch is no exception.

"another mimosa, miss?"
"by now, do you even have to ask?"

I'm pretty sick of Murphy's, enjoyed Watershed, and was quite disappointed by the brunch at Solstice Cafe last Sunday.

So I ask you, lovely blog readers, what is your favorite bruncheon place in town that serves booze? We need suggestions!

30% off EVERYTHING at Loft of Syle

2009-01-08T14:40:00.004-05:00

I think the title pretty much sums it up, but every item in the store is 30% now through Saturday. It does not include their $19 bin, but everything else is 30% off.

They are a pretty cool store- very similar to Sage or Fabrik, but with more well-known brands like 3J, Hale Bop and Plenty. I feel that Loft of Style is a great place to purchase cute tops and sweet dresses. Additionally, they have a solid jewelry selection.

Loft of Style
1441 Dresden Dr
Atlanta, Georgia 30319

Sale is going on now through Saturday.

Local Designer Trunk Show- Jan. 24 & 25

2009-01-08T14:20:00.005-05:00

D.I. readers are invited to check out this fun trunk show event featuring great local Atlanta designers. Feel free to invite your friends for a preview of Spring 2009 collections and enjoy cocktails and snacks all day. GrabMol and I will be there!

The trunk show will be held
Saturday 1/24/09 1:00 - 7:00pm & Sunday 1/25/09 1:00 - 6:00pm

Location:
Glenwood Green Clubhouse
951 Glenwood Avenue
Atlanta, GA 30316
***Gate Code Access: 027***
Telephone Number: 404.254.4371

Some of our favorite designers will be there including:
Nikita Lynn Designs ~ handbags & accessories
Concrete Lace ~ letterpress & mandala coloring books
Breathless Paper Co. ~ customizable invitations
Talulah B ~ vintage jewelry & accessories
Lastnight Designs ~ one of a kind vintage jewelry
Will Randall Designs ~ handmade jewelry
Coleccion Luna ~ handbags & accessories

2 Hair Products You NEED- trust me

2009-01-07T13:33:00.005-05:00

OK, you really need to get these 2 hair products, no matter what type of hair you have. I'm serious, you will thank me.

1) Dry Hair Shampoo- This is a lifesaver product- it allows you to save your blow-outs. It also does a great job of refreshing your hair if you don't have the time to wash and style (this should live in your gym bag). I would not say that it is a substitute for real shampoo, but rather lets you go a little longer between washes (which is much healthier for your hair).

This stuff has been around forever, but up until recently, most hair powers were in shake-on containers which made application very tricky (no one wants to look like they are wearing a George Washington-inspired powdered wig). Now, lots of brands come in aerosol versions. My favorite brand out there is René Furterer; though Oscar Blandi does make a decent product.
You can get both brands at a variety of salons, or Sephora.

Bumble and bumble makes a dry shampoo line for different hair colors, which would be great for darker shades. Note- I am blond and the one that is made for blonds in the B&B line was way too dark, so you may want to try a shade lighter than you actually are.

2) Elnett Hairspray- I hate hairspray. I even hate the name- it conjures up visions of 80s prom queens, hard hair, and memories of being a bridesmaid. Well, this product changes everything. Last year I read in a few fashion magazines that this stylist favorite was going to be finally available in the US. Apparently top stylists have been using this product for years and had to bring it back in their suitcases from Europe. Now it is available at Target! (reason #403 why I love Target).

Unlike most hairspray, the mist is SUPER fine and not sticky at all (really I promise). You can run a comb through your hair even after it is sprayed. It also adds shine without weighing it down with silicone like many products. The best part is that it helps keep humidity out- I really put it through that test the last 5 days here in Atlanta. Click here to see if your Target carries it. They have an extra hold formula, but the regular one works just fine in my opinion. This shouldn't even be called "hairspray", it should get a better name (suggestions welcome!).

How would you like cook your steak?

2009-01-06T12:29:00.003-05:00

It's not food or fashion but it sure is a fun way to spend your money...

Peelander-Z is coming back to town on Friday, April 24th at The Earl!

"us laughing watching this"

If you've never been to one of their shows, you really owe it to yourself to go. They are a fucking BLAST! (Take a gander at some of the pictures I took from last April when they played The Earl with Attractive Eighties Women.)

You can preorder tickets through Ticket Alternative here,as well as at all Ticket Alternative outlets (including Fantasyland Recods, Decatur CD, and Ella Guru) and The Earl.

Store to watch- Gilly Hicks Sydney

2009-01-05T14:35:00.004-05:00

So while in Miami for New Years, I checked out Abercrombie and Fitch's new store concept called Gilly Hicks. Basically it is a women's intimates and lounge-wear store- think Victoria Secret meets Abercrombie. Now, I will not wax on about my personal feelings for Abercrombie and will not take those into consideration for the purpose of this review.

I actually do love the store. As with any of the Abercrombie brand stores, they go above and beyond to create a concept, physical store and overall shopping experience. In the spirit of Hollister and Ruehl (we don't have a Ruehl in Atlanta, but think an older version of Abercrombie, as in the Banana Republic of Abercrombie) the space is not just your average store. It is a gorgeous, dimly lit maze, filled with with dark cherry wood, small separate rooms with antique furniture, and crystal chandeliers.

Abercrombie likes to come up with a back-story or concept for all their stores. Here is the one that was conjured up for Gilly Hicks (click here for source info and complete article)

"The inspiration for Gilly Hicks came about from an Australian-themed concept two years in the making. Named after a fictional English girl named Gilly, the store’s layout and design is a reflection of her British colonial-style manor house on the shoreline of her home in Australia.

In the story, created by Abercrombie & Fitch CEO and Chairman, Michael Jeffries, the Hicks family traveled from England to Sydney in 1932. Years later, Gilly’s granddaughter returned to her grandmother Gilly’s historic manor house and opened up an underwear shop in the modern day."

In the middle of the store is their fragrance section with old apothecary-style glass jars and elaborate displays of their signature fragrances and body care products. (I purchased the house scent called Le Perouse- it has a lilac base note which I love. My friend KJF hated the scent, so to each is own... I personally can't get enough of it).

The pièce de résistance of the whole experience is their "bra library" where they have over 40 different style to choose from. Shockingly, the sales associates (A&F likes to call them "brand reps") are actually very helpful and write down all the styles and sizes you try on, so that you can remember what worked of you.

As far as quality, I think that the prices are very reasonable for the product they deliver- ranging from $10-$55. If you happen to be in the Miami area (Aventura Mall), they are having a major sale now (along with the rest of the retail world).

I personally would recommend checking them out, if for nothing else than seeing the physical store, it really is amazing. Unfortunately, you cannot order their items online yet. I heard a rumor that the e-commerce portion of the site is going to be up in Feb., but I cannot confirm that. As of now, you can either shop at one of their 13 stores or on eBay (if you dare). I will update when you can shop online.

Atlanta Web Party- Friday Night

2008-12-23T10:54:00.005-05:00

Check this out- Friday night (Dec 26) is the 1st annual Unwrapped Atlanta Web Party at Vinyl @ the CW Music Complex in Midtown. This event should be a lot of fun, as it is a chance to meet and hang out with local bloggers, designers, developers, and Facebook junkies.

Beyond being a fun thing to do on a Friday night following Christmas, the event supports a great cause- One Laptop Per Child. Their goal is to help create educational opportunities for the world’s poorest children by providing each child with a rugged, low-cost, low-power, connected laptop with content and software designed for collaborative and self-empowered learning. I saw a story about the company on 60 Minutes (yes, I do watch 60 Minutes occasionally) and it truly is a fantastic company.

Click here for the Unwrapped website for detailed information including driving directions.

And make sure you stop by and say hi to GrabMol and me- we are sponsors!

Happy Holidays!!!!

2008-12-23T10:33:00.005-05:00

We just want to take this time to thank everyone for their amazing support, kind enthusiasm and of course, snarky comments. Hope you have a wonderful holiday (Hannukah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, New Years, Chinese New Years, Shabe Yalda, Winter Solstice, etc....)

Thank You!!!

Oh, and if you need a great e-card, (or bored and want a laugh) check out this site....
someecards.com- these are awesome.

Ooh! 20% off at Kiehls!

2008-12-19T09:26:00.009-05:00

Check this out- save 20% on all your purchases in- store and online. Kiehls makes amazing products for everyone (even pets). My favorites are their ultra rich moisturizing cream and pineapple face scrub (I can't live without this scrub).

Use the code FAMILY when you checkout (both in store and online)

In Atlanta, they have a brick-and-mortar store in Lenox Square Mall (right by Mark Shale and David Yurman- I was born with map of all malls imprinted in my DNA).

30% off Shop Bop

2008-12-16T14:13:00.006-05:00

Now through Wednesday, you can save 30% on all regularly priced items at ShopBop.com.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this site. I feel that it is one of the most comprehensive shopping sites out there; in brands, type of clothes, trends, and style.
My top picks right now are their jewelry. I think these pieces would make fab gifts, and who doesn't want to save a little when they spend?

Use the code HOLIDAYLOVE when you check out.

Love this wrap bracelet- And this ring-

And this bracelet too:

La Perla- Crazy Sale at Saks!

2008-12-16T14:05:00.005-05:00

For those of you who love La Perla, heads up that they are having an AMAZING sale right now at the Saks at Phipps Plaza.

I spoke with Sak's La Perla rep and she said that the prices now are even below cost (which is nuts). I got several beautiful items for less than you would pay at Gap Body or Victoria's Secret. As in, items marked down from $350 (who spends THAT much?) to $50. I would go ASAP as their selection is dwindling.

They also have some other great brands on sale like Wolford and Natori. But why buy those when you can have La Perla!?!?!

On the 3rd floor of Saks Fifth Avenue, Phipps Plaza.

Top Chef ketchup

2008-12-13T20:59:00.005-05:00

I'm finally caught up with this season of Top Chef. Normally, I'd be all over this but, for some reason, I'd totally missed each episode up until now.

I'm not completely on the edge of my seat this season. I guess I'm rooting for Jamie and Stefan. Speaking of Stefan, why does everyone hate him so much? He doesn't seem like such a bad guy. Plus! He gives Jamie fun little gifts. So he can't be all that bad, right?

And what is with Rocco DiSpirito appearing on every slightly cooking related reality show? Go away, Rocco. And while you're at it, Top Chef execs, please bring back Anthony Bourdain. He makes the show infinitely more entertaining.

Not naming names but

2008-12-13T20:50:00.001-05:00

...methinks a certain restaurant group could use a website revamping.

Kelly's Closet Annual Holiday Party is TONIGHT

2008-12-11T15:23:00.003-05:00

I just got this information about Kelly's Closet's holiday party. I love this store and would highly suggest checking this out on your way home tonight. Kelly's Closet is a great place to find a fab and fun party dress for an upcoming holiday event! You can never have too many dresses.

This party is always a fun time and a great opportunity to get a good deal on something you have had your eye on in the boutique. This year will certainly not disappoint! We are serving up cocktails, appetizers and yummy chocolate fondue courtesy of the Melting Pot as well as special savings. During the event you can save 40% on any one, regularly priced boutique item or an additional 20% off any one, sale item. Plus you can combine these deals to get something for you and the special someone on your shopping list. Please stop by and have a cup of cheer with us!

The Event is from 6pm-9pm

Grower Champagne Dinner at The National

2008-12-08T12:31:00.005-05:00

If you know me in the very slightest, you know of my obsession with sparkling wines. So when I dined at The National in Athens recently, I was excited to see that they are having a Grower Champagne Dinner.

A terrible iPhone pic of a dinner I had at The National.
Please note my glass of prosecco to the left!

"Grower Champagne Dinner
Wednesday, December 10, 7:00pm
at The National
$95 per person

oyster soup with fideos and saffron
Pierre Peters, blanc de blancs, grand cru, Mesnil

salmon "slider" with avocado, fennel,
roasted tomato-mayo and romaine
Alain Soutiran, perle noir, blanc de noir, grand cru, Ambonnay

fried Cornish game hen, chopped watercress,
caramelized onions and apricot aioli
Gaston Chiquet, tradition, 45% meunier, 35% chardonnay,
20% pinot noir, premier cru, Hautvillers

braised pork shoulder, crispy prosciutto and sofrito
Aubry, rosé brut, 60% chardonnay, 40% pinot noir
and meunier, premier cru, Jouy les Reims

French cheeses with toasts, lavender-honey and almonds
Jean Milan, tendresse, blanc de blancs, sec, grand cru, Oger"

What is Grower Champagne, you ask? Here is a site with more information on Grower Champagne and an excerpt from that site is below:

"The biggest problem in Champagne is that there are 15,000 growers in the region who do not make their own wine. If more growers produced their own wines instead of selling their grapes to the houses and cooperatives, the power of the houses would diminish and quality would rise due to competition. But it’s very easy for the growers to sell their grapes to the houses and so the majority of the growers choose this route."

The National
232 W Hancock Ave
Athens, GA 30601
706.549.3450
www.thenationalrestaurant.com

By the way, my other obsession is taking pics in the mirrors of restaurant bathrooms. Please to behold the picture I took at The National.

What to Wear? Michelle Obama's Inaguration Gown

2008-12-04T13:26:00.004-05:00

I have to admit that I love Michelle Obama. She is the epitome of intelligence, grace and style. I was excited to read that tons of designers are clamoring for the chance to design her inauguration ball gown. Click here for a slide show of some of the submissions she has received so far courtesy of WWD. They also a slide show of dresses for Malia and Sasha Obama- I love the cute little coats!
I have to say that my favorite 2 are by Monique Lhuillier (#2 in slide show and red dress below) and Diane Von Furstenberg (#8 in slide show and white dress below).
No matter what she chooses, she will be stunning.

Madonna for Louis Vuitton!

2008-12-04T10:33:00.004-05:00

I am really excited that Madonna is going to be in the new campaign for Louis Vuitton- it is going to be amazing. Apparently this idea was randomly blurted out by Marc Jacobs during a meet and he texted Madonna to see if she would consider. According to reports, in less than 5 minutes, she wrote back "I'd love to." How cool would it be to get a text from MJ!!!
Click here to read the article in today's Women's Wear Daily.

Ugg.. I LOVE these pics! Word is that the campaign will have a very Parisian theme. I can't decide which I want more, the shoes or that bag. I'm thinking shoes...

Fun Tiffany Event-who doesn't love a blue box?

2008-12-03T15:39:00.003-05:00

Before heading over to the DI/Urban Cottage Event on Saturday, check out Tiffany at Phipps mall for some fun-

Nothing says luxury during the holidays like a gift wrapped in Tiffany blue, and while you search for holiday gifts, Tiffany & Co. is providing options to help along the way.

This Saturday, Dec. 6, Tiffany & Co. Phipps Plaza will host a Holiday Open House, offering customers complimentary machine engraving (for up to three letters), and providing treats such as Tiffany blue candy canes and pettifours for anyone who browses through the Atlanta store. From Dec. 3 – 7, Tiffany is offering complimentary ground shipping on new purchases in all U.S. stores, including Atlanta's location in Phipps Plaza.

And of course, Tiffany & Co. can help customers select the perfect gift – right in their price range – by showcasing gifts at various price points throughout the store.

Why not...tay

2008-12-03T10:05:00.004-05:00

This morning, I was in a HUGE rush to get to work. I completely overslept and it was not a pretty sight.

Bedhead, exhibit a.

On mornings like these, coffee is particularly important. But I can't just run out and grab it - I'm already late. And, generally, I am not a fan of prepackaged coffee drinks. They are usually too sweet and have too many calories for my taste.

Fortunately, Yenta Girl and I were lucky enough to be invited to try out Atlanta's own, Whynatte Latte a few weeks ago and it changed my perceptions of ready-to-drink coffee drinks.

the cans are pretty cool, right?

It isn't sickeningly sweet, it only has 100 calories a can, and it is sweetened with beet and cane sugar - no high fructose corn syrup for this latte!

The most interesting thing about the Whynatte is that it actually started as a mixer - like a Red Bull and vodka except not disgusting. I've been told that if you go to Front Page news and ask for a Whynatte, they'll know exactly what you want and serve up tasty, alcoholic and coffee beverage!

In fact, the Whynatte Latte is available at quite a few places around town like Alon's, Parish Market, Fox Bros BBQ, Danneman's Coffee Shop, with many more to follow. So, you can pick up a few cans and be ready for slow mornings like I had today. Or, just try it as a mixer. (There are a few recipes below for you at home bartender types.)

Check out their site for more info on the Whynatte Latte and for a complete list on where to pick up your own can to try.

And, if you want to try a can for free, cans of Whynatte Lattes will be included in the 50 gift bags at the Urban Cottage & Disposable Income event this Saturday. So be sure to get there early!!

Whynatte Recipes

Classic Whynatte
1 shot Jagermeister® herbal liqueur
6 oz Whynatte Latte
Pour 6 oz Whynatte Latte into a pint glass. Drop the shot of Jagermeister into the pint glass (shot glass and all) and pound.

Southern Espresso
2 oz espresso flavored vodka
2 oz Whynatte Latte
Pour vodka and Whynatte Latte over ice cubes in an old-fashioned glass.

The Cunningham
1 oz vodka
1 oz Kahlua® coffee liqueur
1 splash Whynatte Latte
1 splash Coca-Cola®
Mix ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker. Strain into a shot glass, and serve.

Slim Mint
1.5oz vanilla vodka,
.5oz Whynatte Latte
.5oz crème de coco
.5 oz light crème de menthe
Pour ingredients into a stainless steel shaker over ice, and shake until completely cold. Strain into a chilled, stemmed or rocks glass filled with ice.

Vanilla Ice
2 oz vanilla vodka
2 oz Whynatte Latte
Pour vodka and Whynatte Latte over ice cubes in an old-fashioned glass.

Nutty Latte
.5 oz Frangelico hazelnut liqueur
.5 oz raspberry vodka
2 oz Whynatte Latte
Pour ingredients into a stainless steel shaker over ice, and shake until completely cold. Strain into a chilled, stemmed or rocks glass filled with ice.

We love our Google Map- Check it out!

2008-12-02T11:27:00.003-05:00

In case you never noticed the Google Map link on the right side of our page, I highly recommend checking it out. This map has all the locations we have blogged about plus others that we think are great spots. All stores are in pink and all restaurants are in purple. It is a great way to see what stores/restaurants are in a particular area of Atlanta. Use it to plan your holiday shopping!

Let us know if you have a spot we should add to the map.

Countdown to Urban Cottage + DI Event!!!

2008-12-02T11:11:00.010-05:00

Only 4 days until the Urban Cottage and Disposable Income Event! We are so excited if you couldn't tell.

Last night we went over to Urban Cottage and picked out our favorite things. On Saturday, you can check out what we love and get a discount on those items. I already ended up buying an amazing long cotton sweater coat (and trust me, there are at least 10 other things that I am going to get on Saturday).

The store is all decorated for the holidays and looks so great (this coming from someone who doesn't even celebrate Christmas).

We are also gearing up for the gift bags for the first 50 people. Each day we keep getting more items added to the bags. Some of the highlights include gift cards provided by Fifth Group Restaurants, a CD, and Whynatte Latte samples (A dedicated post with more info on Whynatte Latte is to come - but we LOVE them).

Make sure you bring all your friends. There will be yummy snacks from Aurora Coffee, Woodfire Grill, Bella Cucina and more.

Saturday, Dec. 6 from 6pm-??
See you there!

Drink Coffee and Give Back (Plus a DI Giveaway!)

2008-12-01T10:56:00.008-05:00

Unless you've been living under a rock, you are probably well aware of the (RED) campaign. (If happen not to know, (RED)'s primary objective is to engage the private sector in raising awareness and money for the Global Fund to help eliminate AIDS in Africa.)

Now Starbucks is joining companies such as GAP, Apple, and Hallmark to help the Global Fund fight AIDS in Africa through some exciting initiatives:

Today Starbucks will donate $.05 from every beverage purchased at participating stores nationally.

Here in Atlanta, Starbucks is having their (RED) event at the Dunwoody Village store (5561 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd, Dunwoody, GA 30338) from 2-4 p.m. today with giveaways, free samples and an opportunity to learn more about Starbucks partnership with (RED).

And, from now until Friday, January 2nd, if you purchase any Starbucks RED Exclusive beverage - Espresso Truffle, Peppermint Mocha Twist or Gingersnap Latte - Starbucks will donate $.05 to The Global Fund to help save lives in Africa. (For more information, visit joinred.com.)

To celebrate their partnership with (RED), Starbucks is giving Disposable Income readers the opportunity to win their new Starbucks Gold card (more info about that card is below) or one of their new espresso drinks (Espresso Truffle, Peppermint Mocha Twist or Gingersnap Latte).

So, I'm making this really easy on you guys. The first five people who write me at Disposable Income and can correctly tell me when and where the first ever Disposable Income event is (hint: scroll down) will when either the new Starbucks Gold Card (the first 2 people to correctly answer) or a free espresso drink (the next 3 people to correctly answer).

Starbucks Gold, Starbucks new membership program, is a card for people who visit Starbucks so frequently, the baristas can guess their order before they place it. The annual membership fee is $25 and, in return, members receive 10 percent off on most purchases at participating Starbucks – from espresso beverages to espresso machines. And after registering at StarbucksGold.com, members will receive:

* Complimentary beverage on one’s birthday
* Exclusive offers and discounts
* Free Wi-Fi access for 2 hours each day
* Members-only website

Black Friday

2008-11-26T18:49:00.005-05:00

Well, it is almost that time again. I personally was never one to get up early to go shop, but I do love going to the mall (at a reasonable hour) to shop on Black Friday, there is just something fun about it for me. I do know that many people rather gouge their eyes out with a stiletto than go to the mall on the busiest shopping day of the year, but not me.

As you may have noticed if you have watched the news in, oh I don't know, the last 3 months, the economy is, well, not in a great place. As a result, store are offering even deeper discounts this holiday season and I encourage everyone to take advantage! Think of it as your duty as an American. Below are 2 sites that have details on store hours and discount for Black Friday. Sadly, they don't include any of my favorite stores, but none the less, still a good resource. I am also a big fan of shopping the day after Christmas. Saks, Neiman's usually have great sales on Dec. 26.

Black Friday 2008

Black-Friday.net

Don't forget that some of the best deals online can be found the Monday after Thanksgiving, now being called "Cyber Monday". Not sure if it has the same ring. Make sure you check out your favorite websites on Monday to see what kind of deals you can find. Feel free to post in the comments section any good deals that you know of!

Disposable Income + Urban Cottage Event!!!!!!!

2008-11-24T13:55:00.010-05:00

We are SO excited that we are having out FIRST EVER Disposable Income event.

We are pairing with one of our favorite stores, Urban Cottage for an amazing shopping event.
From Sat Dec. 6 from 6-10 PM we will be having drinks and food from local restaurants, coffee from Aurora, music, free gift bags (first 50 people- trust me they are amazing and have awesome stuff. I really want one!), plus there will be Tarot card readings, and Breathless Paper will be on hand. AND you will see our DI picks for top holiday gifts with special pricing for DI readers! (I think that could be my favorite part)
Please pass this on to everyone you know! More details to follow...
See you there!

Big Angel Blowout- Holiday Shopping Event

2008-11-20T14:46:00.004-05:00

This weekend is the 15th (and last) Big Angel Blowout. Each year, the Inman Park gallery, Whitespace has hosted this holiday shopping event. I have never attended and am excited to go this year. The event features all kinds of local artists and is a great place to find amazing gifts and support local artists. It starts tonight and goes through Sunday.

Whitespace Gallery
814 Edgewood Ave, Atlanta 30307
Nov. 20-23

Sweetgrass Spa- Appreciation Day Today!

2008-11-19T13:58:00.003-05:00

Check this out- if you have time this afternoon/ evening- check out Sweetgrass Spa in L5P for some really great deals on services and FREE stuff today only until 7pm!

- 20% off ALL Services
-20% off ALL Aveda Products
- 15% off Gift Certificate Purchases
- Free Bang Trim
- Free Chair Massage
- Free Hand Massage
- Free Make-up Application

Click on the image below for Sweetgrass's website and location details. Enjoy!
(Thanks Carla K. for pointing this great deal out!)

ICE Show this weekend- Sat. Nov 15

2008-11-14T10:42:00.003-05:00

I highly recommend checking out the Indie Craft Experience (ICE) show this weekend.

It is a collection of crafters from around the southeast who come together to sell their homemade items. Here is a good description from Public Broadcasting Atlanta (I give credit where credit it due!).

You won’t find any macramé wall hangings at the Indie Craft Experience. Well, maybe you will, but chances are the person who made them find them as amusing as you do.

The Indie Craft Experience isn’t your grandmother’s kind of craft fair. The crafts at ICE might have a hipper edge or an ironic playfulness that one doesn’t usually associate with traditional crafts. They might incorporate vintage fabrics, goofy graphics, or re-purposed material into designs that feature skulls, superheroes, or robots; it’s punk rock played with needle and thread.

It’s not just the crafts on sale that set ICE apart.Co-founders Christy Petterson, Shannon Mulkey and Susan Voelker envisioned the Indie Craft Experience as more than just a craft market. It offers crafting workshops, vegan baked goods, and a clothing swap benefiting local charities. And what other craft fair has live bands?

If you go, make sure you stop by Concrete Lace's booth (#35)- that is our friend Katie K.! We love her hand- letterpressed postcards!

Saturday, November 15, 11-6 p.m.
Admission $5 (proceeds go to Hagar House and Handmade Nation)

Located at 585 Wells St. SW * Atlanta, GA 30312 (check out the website for more details)

Sales Sales Sales!

2008-11-13T15:03:00.005-05:00

Now that the economy is not doing so hot (understatement of the year), retailers are feeling the pinch and are offer lots of sales. Now is a great time to shop if you have income to blow (or just feel like doing your part to stimulate the economy).
This is one reason why I choose to tie up my assets in shoes :)
Check some of these deals out:

Singer22:

Kate Spade: I recommend checking out the shoe selection.

Shop Bop:

Fun Shopping Event- Shop and help others at the same time!

2008-11-11T13:08:00.006-05:00

Join Nest Atlanta for a girls night out and Holiday Stroll Friday November 21st from 6-10pm

Loction- “The corner” of Virginia and North Highland Avenues. Enjoy coffee from Aurora and Sweet Treats from LuLu Blue and have your Tarot read by Madame Mandela!

Feel good about your purchases! A % will be donated to Nest Atlanta whose vision is to assist women in developing countries begin or maintain an art or craft based business using microfinance loans. www.buildanest.org

If you don't know much about mircoloans or microfinancing, check out the above website for Nest or go to http://www.kiva.org

Begins at 6pm at Urban Cottage
Wine & hors d’oeuvres
will be served throughout the stroll.

participating boutiques:
Urban Cottage
Bella Cucina
Mitzi & Romano
Mitz’s Shoebox
Festivity
Eco Bella
Denise Disharoon
Coleccion Luna & Dialogue
Concrete Lace

Come on out!- Friday November 21st from 6-10pm

A peek at Taqueria del Sol in Athens

2008-11-09T19:24:00.004-05:00

I was in Athens this weekend and stopped by The Grit for brunch this morning. On the way over we passed by the newest Taqueria del Sol that looks to be opening soon in Athens.

If only they had thought to build this Taqueria four years earlier when I lived on Childs Street. Instead, there was just an old car repair shop that hadn't been repairing cars in years.

The new TDS is at the corner of Prince and Childs Streets,
just up the street from The Grit!

Dang, man! I'm totally jealous.

Krafty Crafters at Kraftwork!

2008-11-07T00:23:00.002-05:00

I stopped into Young Blood Gallery last night to visit two talented and crafty ladies, Lori and Becky, at Kraftwork, a monthly indie craft market. Not only were Lori & Becky's booths filled with delightful handmade finds but the rest of the booths were filled with fun stuff, too. Plus, you can't beat $2 bottles of Stella unless you were drinking a six-pack on your couch!

Here are some pictures from the night:

the kraftwork market!

felted owl ornaments by glue & glitter

more owls plus aprons by glue & glitter

awesome note cards by loriming

jewelry from the fireball collective

jewelry by mamie ruth designs

If you didn't make it out to this show, don't miss it next month!

Kraftwork
The first Thursday of every month from 7-10 p.m
Young Blood Gallery & Boutique
636 N. Highland Ave
Atlanta, GA 30306
More details here

Who doesn't want to ride dirty?!

2008-11-06T15:13:00.002-05:00

...especially when riding dirty means that you challenge some of the best Atlanta restaurants to compete for the tastiest wine and food pairings under $25.

This is what makes the man behind the blog, Dirty South Wine, brilliant and the rest of us mere food mortals. Check it out:

"Dirty South Wine, Atlanta’s top wine blog, has announced
the 2008 “Riding Dirty” Atlanta Wine Pairing Challenge. Fifteen of Atlanta’s top
restaurants will prepare a wine and food pairing to be served at their bar for
under $25. The goal of the challenge is to showcase the restaurant’s skill and
creativity in wine pairing, while presenting incredible, affordable combinations for
the Atlanta dining public.

Restaurants must choose a glass of wine from their current list of by-the-glass
wines, and the food may be either a small plate or appetizer from their standard
menu. The pairings will be served to the judges at the participating restaurants
and will be evaluated based on three criteria: taste, creativity and value.

The judges are:
1. Matt Richardson (aka Rowdy Food)
2. Broderick Smylie (ATL photographer http://broderickphoto.wordpress.com/)
3. Hardy Wallace (publisher of www.dirtysouthwine.com).

All pairings will be chronicled and written up on Dirty South Wine. At the end of
the challenge, an overall winner will be named, and the 2008 “Riding Dirty” award
presented. Along with the overall winner, several subcategories will be
announced as well.

The following Atlanta restaurants have agreed to participate:
Holeman & Finch
Joel
ARIA
ENO
Woodfire Grill
Toulouse
VITA
Repast
La Tavola
Top FLR
VINE
Canoe
Dogwood
ONE. Midtown kitchen
And the ISAW charity (International Society of Africans in Wine)

The tastings will occur throughout the month of November, and winners
announced on December 3, 2008. Progress in the “Riding Dirty” Challenge can
be followed at www.dirtysouthwine.com, and updates and news can be followed
on Twitter under #dty (for Dirty)."

Snaps, people! I am drooling over this restaurant list. Why didn't I think of this first, damnit?!

If you want to participate, twitter your thoughts with a #dty tag. (My first tweet will either be, "drool #dty" or "completely jealous #dty" - maybe both.)

Yenta Girl Meets Christian Louboutin!

2008-10-27T15:14:00.003-04:00

My life is now complete, I met my shoe idol.

Myself and about 100 or so Buckhead-Betty types (which I may or may not be one of now that I moved) battled the rain to have a chance to meet Christian Louboutin at Jeffrey Atlanta.

I arrived an hour early, not knowing what the crowd would be like. Well, there weren't that many people at noon and a line wasn't forming at this point, so I did a little window shopping and got some tea. When I went about 50 minutes later, there still wasn't a line, but it was much more crowded. They were passing out champagne, which is always a plus in my book. After a few minutes of trying to look busy and preoccupied, I struck of a conversation with a girl that had on the most AMAZING pair of Louboutin's- bright pink satin with a giant bow and 5 inch heals. They really were breathtaking. We started comparing shoes (I had on my pair of CL's- peep-toe midnight blue patterned with 5 inch heals) and talking about how much we love his Spring line.

When it approached 1pm, we all made our way into a line (of course myself and Ms. Pink Shoes made sure we were in the front).

I must say that Christian Louboutain was the face of "cool". He looks so effortlessly chic, with faded jeans, a houndstooth blazer and green Converses (at least that is what I think they were).

I had brought with me an article from this month's issue of InStyle that featured an article all about him for Christian to sign (as I was NOT in the market to buy a new pair of his $800 shoes). If you haven't seen the article, I highly recommend it. It talks about him (of course) and gives you a beautiful tour of his home in France (October issue).

After about 20 minutes it was finally my turn to approach the table where he was signing (see photo from my phone- yes it was stanchioned off like he was a rockstar). Turns out he is so unassuming, warm and charismatics. He took the time to show me some of the highlights of the article and when I pointed out that I loved one of his end tables (it looks like a little boar- don't ask, it is odd and quirky, but really cool) he laughed and said that he loved that table as well.

What impressed me the most is that he took the time to talk to me and instead of just signing his name on my page (which I was expecting him to do- and would have been more than happy with), he actually drew a little picture and a note next to the boar photo and singed his name. Not only did he draw a picture, but he colored it in and decorated it. I could see from the line that he decorated everything he signed, including shoes.

It really was a great experience, one that I will never forget. Now I just need to go buy a frame.

Parish Market with Babs

2008-10-26T21:18:00.004-04:00

My friend Jim (who prefers to be called by his internet handle, Babs) has a knack for giving critiques. It's a gift, really. A gift that I am frequently honored by receiving, particularly when it comes to this blog. Who else would tell me when Yenta Girl has been posting more than me and I better get at it? And no one but Babs would tell me that my restaurant entries are a little soft and I need to be more demanding in my assessments.

So, in light of his paramount taste, I offered him the chance (of a lifetime) to give a guest review. He finally took me up on this offer when we went to Parish Market on Friday. (I've written about Parish Restaurant in the past. Parish Market is located just downstairs of the restaurant.)

the market

Here are Jim's thoughts that he emailed me later that same afternoon:

"So I suppose when you order a Meatloaf Sandwich, you are not expecting
something delicate. What you are expecting is something meaty, savory,
heavy and probably a little bit greasy. Particularly if said sandwich also
has bacon and cheddar on it.

In that way, I was satisfied. It was not the biggest sandwich I have ever
eaten. But, 4 hours later, I am still pretty much stuffed. That's good,
right?

The taste? Above average - hitting all the spots you'd expect - a little
spice, a little smoke (bacon) and a lot of meat. Good half-pickle.

I also ordered the "tea of the day" which was not tea as much as it was a
blueberry-lemonade.

Molly tried my sandwich and drink. She may have a different report. I was
not offered any of hers.

The environs are nice in an art-directed sort of way. I suppose you could
buy a candle or a card of a coffee table book if you wanted to. Molly and I
ate at the communal table and I have to assume that ours was the most
interesting conversation going on. Laid back crowd of the kind of people
who want to eat a $10 sandwich in Inman Park on a rainy Friday.

the eat'n space

I debated getting the shrimp po' boy, which I have had before. I'd probably
get that next time.

Oh yeah, and it ain't cheap. I netted out at more than 13 bucks, chips,
sandwich and drink, pre-tip."

The sandwich that I did not offer Jim was pretty awesome.

It was a seared chicken breast topped with creole spiced cabbage slaw and sliced green tomato. It is simple but so good. I wouldn't call it a light sandwich considering that the bun is toasted with butter. But, it certainly isn't as heavy as the meatloaf sandwich, if that is too much for you.

In lieu of my regular standby, Diet Coke, I had a bottle of Martinelli's Sparkling Apple Juice.

Mmm...tastes like old times

Parish Market also offers some grab and go salads, breakfast items, desserts, and a full espresso bar. I definitely recommend that you give it a try.

Parish Market
240 N. Highland Avenue
Atlanta, GA 30307
404.681.4434
www.parishatl.com

Good food for a good cause

2008-10-23T09:37:00.003-04:00

The great thing about our city is that there always seems to be some delicious event going on where one can try amazing wines, mingle with talented local chefs, and eat unbelievably good food.

This coming Monday, October 27th, you can do all of the above all while helping out a great cause!

The Atlanta Community Food Bank's Atlanta's Table is holding one of their Simple Abundance Cooking Classes with Chef Tim Magee of Parish Foods & Goods at the midtown location of The Cook's Warehouse.

"The Creole and Cajun cuisines that blend delicious French, Spanish, French Caribbean and African flavors is what New Orleans food is all about. Chef Magee brings his high level of commitment and passion to New Orleans style cooking to Simple Abundance with a menu of Sunflower salad with Bibb lettuce, sunchokes and baby corn vinaigrette; Andouille crusted catfish with julienne vegetables, chive aoli and crystal butter; and Pecan-peach bread pudding with caramel anglaise. Evening includes wine tastings sponsored by National Distributor's and a chance to win tasty door prizes provided by Atlanta Beverage, Bella Cucina Artful Foods, Cabot Cheese and Via Elisa Authentic Fresh Pasta."

The cost is only $50 and 100% of the proceeds will go to Atlanta's Table to feed the hungry using perishable food from the local hospitality industry. (Click here for more info on Atlanta's Table.)

This is an incredible deal for an incredible cause. Please consider attending!

Simple Abundance Cooking Class benefiting Atlanta's Table
Monday, October 27, 7pm to 9pm
Chef Tim Magee of Parish Foods & Goods
The Cook's Warehouse - Midtown
549-1 Amsterdam Avenue
Atlanta GA 30306
($50, Demonstration & Tasting)

Taking The Original El Taco for a spin

2008-10-22T22:58:00.001-04:00

Yenta Girl and I were thrilled to be invited to one of the preview nights at Shaun Doty's and the Fifth Group Restaurants new partnership, The Original El Taco.

The Original El Taco occupies the space of The Fifth Group's Sala, which closed back in July. The decor of El Taco seemed more festive and casual than Sala was.

We had quite a wait before our table was ready. Luckily, we were able to grab some sangrias at the bar. While we were there, one of the bartenders spun a big wheel on the wall behind the bar. If the number it landed on corresponded to the number on the token you were given on the way in, you got something free. And what do you know? I was a winner!

oh yeah - free tequila for me

The spinner was fun that night but I'm not sure how well it would work on a regular basis. (And, I'm not even sure if it is a regular thing. I could be wrong.)

I think due to the crowd of the preview night, Yenta Girl and I had to be seated with another couple - the delightful owners of the San Francisco Coffee Roasting Company. Unfortunately, I was too self conscious to take as many pictures I would have liked of the food. I quickly snapped what I could so as not to ruin their dinner. So, I was unable to get (good) pictures of everything we had.

Taco Basket with a fried chicken taco, red chili steak taco, and a Mexican chorizo taco

The tacos were really good. They ran out of the talapia taco before we could try it. But, the fried chicken taco was a good substitute. The only thing that would have given these tacos an A+ would have been homemade corn tortillas. The flour ones were unremarkable.

There was a nice garnish bar for the tacos at the back of the restaurant. Unfortunately, I wasn't aware of it until after I gobbled up my tacos. Next time, I'm hitting up the garnishes hardcore!

don't make my mistake - garnish away!

Chili Cheese Enchiladas - I have nothing to say about these because I didn't
order them. I was told they were good, though!

Items ordered that I didn't get a great picture of were the Durango "Truck Stop" Sliders (spicy BBQ chicken, chipotle mayo, and banana pepper pickles), Queso Royale (melted Mexican cheese with jalapenos and sides of Mexican chorizo, chili rajas, charred onions, and lime salted corn chips), and shrimp ceviche. I would definitely get the sliders and queso royale again. The shrimp ceviche wasn't my thing but, if you like ceviche, I wouldn't warn against it.

For dessert, we ordered the flan and the Mexican Coke Float. The float was Mexican because it was served with a giant Coke from Mexico, which contains real sugar and not high fructose corn syrup.

GIANT Coke!

Overall, I enjoyed my experience at El Taco. I want to go back and see what it is like on a regular night and maybe even try that talapia!

The Original El Taco
1186 N. Highland Avenue NE
Atlanta, GA 30306
404.873.4656
www.eltaco-atlanta.com

Tracy Ewell- THE BEST!

2008-10-21T11:19:00.005-04:00

So I went to my make-up consultation last week and it was (of course) AMAZING! Natalie and Tracy did such a great job. Not only did my make-up look flawless, but the three of us had a great time. I never feel like they are trying to sell me a bunch of stuff, but the products they do use they really and truly believe in.

I ended up getting eyeliner. Every eyeliner I have tried- power, pencil, liquid always runs, no matter what I do or what the product claims. I am not sure if it because I wear glasses, or the way my skin is, but no matter what I try, it always ends up halfway down my checks and makes me look like I have a black eye. Not attractive.

The girls recommended Face Stockholm's Gel Eyeliner in black and I couldn't be happier with the results. It does NOT move. I wore it to dance class and it still did not run. It is such a great product. I would not plug something if it didn't work. I have a very high standard for eyeliners, so I can promise you that this one is really the best out there.

In addition to the magic eyeliner, I got an eyeliner brush and a bunch of fun gifts with purchase. I especially love the Caudalie scrub sample I got. I am going to go back and get that next time I am there.

Now, go visit Tracy Ewell and tell them Disposable Income sent you!

Tracy Ewell
775 Lake Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307
...the space with the big red door.

Kelly's Closet- Boutique Party and Bridal Sample Sale

2008-10-21T11:07:00.004-04:00

Kelly's Closet is one of my favorite boutiques in the city. Everything in the store is really unique. Kelly travels all over the world to find her clothes and carries many up-and-coming designers. One of my favorite finds is this great pale pink dress from Australia I purchased last Boutique Warehouse Sale. I have been hooked on this store ever since.

This Friday, she is having a big store event that includes food, drinks and great discounts.

This Friday, October 24th, we are hosting our big bash. From 5pm till 8pm, we will be partying down, with plenty to eat and drink. Just for walking through the door, you get $25 closet bucks! (The free money expires on Friday, so make sure you use those puppies.) As most of you know, you can probably do some digging in my baskets and get something for free. Free drinks, free food, and a free goody from the treasure chest. Talk about a win, win, win. All we ask is that you give our birthday boy Aslan a birthday hug. Pretty darn easy, yes?

For those of you wanting to do a little more shopping, we are happy to print more bucks for you! You get $50 closet bucks when you spend $250 and $75 closet bucks when you spend $500 or more. Happy shopping! I would assume you know that you should probably give Aslan a few extra hugs when getting the extra bucks! All of the incentives (and free money) expire that evening, so you have to use your credit before you leave us. But, the hugs go on and on!

Kelly's Closet is also having a huge bridal samples sale. In case you haven't been to the store, half is a boutique and the other half of the store is a bridal salon. They just spend the weekend in New York at a bridal market and now have tons of samples in stock. I would make your appointment ASAP as these dresses will go fast.

Kelly's Closet
1649 McLendon Avenue NE
Atlanta, Georgia 30307
(404) 377-9923 phone

Eat'n with the Bloggers

2008-10-20T21:13:00.003-04:00

Cathy over at Live to Nibble had a great idea a few weeks ago to get all the food bloggers together to eat, drink, and be merry!

We chose to eat at Cuerno and we ate well. I can't even remember everything we ordered (perhaps it was the glasses of sangria I had?) but I will brag that we ordered the Paella de Conejo y Caracoles (that is, the rabbit and snail paella).

yeah, there are snails in that paella

Usually what helps with a foggy memory is my camera. But seeing as how I had never met these other delightful food bloggers, I didn't want to creep them out with my incessant picture taking. So the only other decent picture that I got was of the Tabla de Embutidos, a selection of spanish charcuterie and cheeses served with tomato-garlic bread. Yum!

tomato-garlic bread = genius!

We plan to have more food blogger dinners in our future. Hopefully, they'll remember my charming anecdotes from this evening and forgive my photographic indiscretions.

Cuerno
905 Juniper Street
Atlanta, GA 30309
678.904.4584
www.cuernorestaurant.com

Vintage Jeans at Blue Jeans- Get $$ for your old Denim

2008-10-17T11:03:00.006-04:00

Blue Genes is now buying back your used premium denim (think 7s, True Religion, Paige, Joe's) and will give you $30 in Blue Genes Bucks toward the purchase of a new pair of premium denim. Granted, their new jeans usually cost about $200 on average, but this should help a little.

The denim you sell, along with other used jeans, will be sold in the store in the new "Vintage Section" where prices starts at just $29 (price range is $29 - $100). I know that the definition of "vintage" is really being used loosely here, but I don't care what they want to call it if that means I can get a pair of jeans for $30.

I am checking them out today and hopefully selling back 4 pairs of jeans. I will update this post with details on my visit next week.

Blue Genes
3400 Around Lenox Drive N.E.
Suite 214
Atlanta, GA 30326

Christian Louboutin COMING TO ATLANTA!

2008-10-17T09:47:00.005-04:00

I really cannot contain myself or express to you how excited I am. I may pass out before I finish this post.

While at Phipps last night I saw that Christian Louboutin is coming to Jeffrey Atlanta on October 24 from 1-4pm. I just about pounced on a nice sales associate and demanded details. She wasn't sure of too many specifics but he will be signing shoes (only unworn ones) and may be taking pics (that isn't confirmed). You bet I will be there!

Jeffrey Atlanta
3500 Peachtree Rd NE
Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 237-9000

20% off at Saks- Friends and Family Discount

2008-10-14T11:07:00.005-04:00

You are welcome....
For online shopping, use code SAKSFF2. Print for in-store discount.

New Boutique- Paper Source Is Open!

2008-10-14T10:55:00.005-04:00

Atlanta finally has a Paper Source! To say that it is a paper and card store is really not doing it justice. They sell everything from fine paper from all over the world, gorgeous books, cards, wrapping paper and much more. Handwriting notes is just such a lost art- Paper Source is the kind of place that makes you want to put down the mouse and pick up a pen.

The store just opened in Virginia Highlands right by Mitzi and Romano and Bella Cucina in a huge space- over 3,000 sq. feet. When you go in, make sure you say hi to our friend Carla K.

Next week they are having a huge launch event. Click on the below invitation to visit the website for more information-

Paper Source
Virginia Highlands
1052-54 N. Highland Avenue
Atlanta, GA 30306

Soup's On with rogueApron!

2008-10-12T22:30:00.001-04:00

It's been a crazy couple of weeks; lines of cars waiting hours just to get a few gallons of gas, the worst week in the history of Wall Street, all in the midst of a heated presidential election.

So, with the economy in the dumps and the world in a tailspin, Lady Rogue wanted to bring everyone together to share a warm bowl of tasty soup and good conversation on a Saturday afternoon in the park.

As she put it on her site:

"I’m not an economist. I can’t understand or fix the problems. But what we can do is come together as a community to share a meal. It’s a simple act, but it shatters preconceptions. We can change what we do. We can change how we act. We can connect with each other on a local level, and come up with solutions to make the lives of our neighbors fundamentally better."

I'm no economist, either, but I can certainly enjoy good soup and invigorating conversation!

To get to the park with the pots of soup warm and ready, we had to to walk a bit down a clandestine pathway.

to the right of the sign

down the stairs

through the underpass

head right toward the swings

down the path to rogueApron!

At the registration table, we were greeted with a pumpkin spice infused vodka. It was good and, as usual, super strong!

don't be a hero and try to have more than one, it's more potent than you think!

There were four endless soup options: Organic butternut sqaush, Pancetta, Porcini, & Pistou Minestrone, Mama's Portuguese Vegetable Stew, and Lemongrass & Corn soup.

(left to right) minestrone, butternut squash, vegetable stew, and lemongrass corn

We tried everything but the lemongrass soup only due to time constraints. (We had to get back to the Halloweenie so that Katie could participate in the race!)

the delicious bread was perfect for sopping up the soup remnants!

The winner of the most creative soup bowl was awarded postcards created by Katie Kaiser.
(But, anyone can pick them up at Urban Cottage!)

For dessert, Lenox Cupcakes donated some delicious treats for the guests to partake in.

There was a good crowd at the event. Lady Rogue told us that around 100 people RSVPed! Even dogs were invited to join the fun.

Katie mingles with Extraface's dogs, Toofis & Max

B. told me that, after we left, people broke out the bean bags and began playing corn hole. Ugh, if only I could be in two places at once.

If you'd like to attend the next rogueApron event, go to the website and sign up for the mailing list. And don't sit on the email when you get it - sign up immediately. Lady Rogue told me that past events have sold out in just 15 minutes!

(Curious about the previous events? Click here for my post on the last rogueApron event, here for my post on the fourth event or here for my post on the third event. I've also got pictures from the second event here and Extraface's pictures from rogueApron's debut are here.)

H+F Bread Co., a first taste

2008-10-11T18:00:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, Yenta Girl, Tony, and I decided to give Metro Fresh a rest and headed over to H&F Bread Co. to try it out.

The first thing that hit me when we walked into H&F Bread Co. is the smell; the warm scent of baking breads that makes me want to break out a cot and make myself at home there forever.

I'll take a loaf of bread to gnaw on during the car ride back to work

I had been told of how bare bones it was in there but I was surprised by how cute it ended up being. (Perhaps they spruced it up some since B. got me all those wonderful pastries for me on my birthday?)

Each weekday, H&F Bread Co. cooks up one soup and two sandwiches. Yesterday, they had two soups, chicken noodle and gumbo, and two sandwiches, a roasted veggie and goat cheese pita and a ham baguette.

Gumbo & Veggie Sammy that the gentleman ahead of me ordered

My veggie pita and ginger scone

Yenta Girl's Chicken noodle soup and chocolate croissant

Tony's ham baguette and ginger scone

Pecan cookies that we all shared

I think I can speak for the three of us when I say that we really enjoyed our lunches. All the breads were all delicious and soy free. (Since many breads are made with soy, this is important to note for those with a soy allergy.) The ginger scone was buttery and flaky, with little bits of crystallized ginger.

In addition to their breads, pastries and lunch items, H&F Bread Co. sells jams, olive oil, canned Italian tuna, and other such items.

My only gripe would be with the prices, as it is a tad expensive for a grab and go spot. My sandwich, scone, and diet coke totaled up to about $14 - ouch! But, I can only imagine how H&F feels the pinch on the other side.

As we left, I picked up a menu and found out about their Entertaining Menu, which includes the H&F Burger Kit. For $35, you get 1 lb. of Will Harris' White Oak Pasture Ground Beef, 4 brioche buns, half pint each of ketchup, yellow mustard, bread and butter pickles, 1 pint of caramelized onions, and a 1/4 lb. of cheddar cheese. All this and you don't have to wait until 10pm to eat wait one of their fabulous burgers.

I'm looking forward to trying some of their other soups (like the White Bean soup they serve on Tuesdays!) and picking up a loaf of bread to enjoy at home.

H&F Bread Co.
2255 Peachtree Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
404.350.8877
www.hfbreadco.com

25% Criminal Records this weekend!

2008-10-10T16:21:00.004-04:00

Fashion and music have gone hand in hand since, like, forever. So, I was psyched to get a tip from Lillian at Criminal Records that they are having a 25% sale this weekend to make way for their big move:

"As you may already know, Criminal Records will be moving about a tenth of a mile around the corner onto Euclid Ave. We're not going far at all, but we've got A LOT of stuff to haul over to our new and much bigger space (yay!).

In order to lighten our load, we're having a BIG 25% OFF SALE this weekend until we close on Sunday, October 12th (btw, we'll be closing early around 4 or 5PM that day). The moving sale discount applies to almost everything in the store, with just a few exceptions like tickets, gift cards, special orders, consignment items, etc.

Come on in this weekend and take advantage of this awesome deal. Pick up some great new releases (or great old ones, too), fill in the holes in your Criterion DVD collection, or treat your friends to some cute Breakfast Yummy keychains -- all for 25% less."

Criminal Records
466 Moreland Ave NE
(soon it will be 1154-A Euclid Avenue NE)
Atlanta, GA 30307
404.215.9511
http://www.criminal.com

J-Crew Private Sale (not so private anymore)

2008-10-10T15:45:00.002-04:00

20% off everything in store and online is pretty decent. Stock up on great cashmere sweaters, cute jewelry (still loving the bug pin) and fall jackets.

Festivals Galore!

2008-10-10T13:55:00.007-04:00

This weekend the festival stars must be aligned because there are at least 5 festivals going on.
If you can think of another one, please let us know!

I am def checking out Candler Park Festival with my festival partner in crime (LD).
We are hard-core attendees steeped in ritual (involves proper footwear, cash quantities, etc.- not for the faint of heart).

Click on the links for parking info, times, pet policies, and general info.

1) Candler Park Festival- One of my favorites (up there with Inman Park Festival and Highland Festival). Should be a big turnout with a lot of vendors. Keep a lookout for great handmade jewelry, fine art, home decor...
http://www.candlerparkfallfest.org

2) Brookhaven Arts Festival- This one is smaller than the above event, but has more of a neighborhood, family feel. There were some good vendors last year so I would say it is worth the hour and a half it takes to walk through.
http://www.brookhavenartsalliance.com

3) Oakhurst Arts and Music Festival- Not one of my favorites, if we are being honest with each other. I attended about 3 years ago and was disappointed. From an arts perspective, there are not that many vendors. From a community event perspective, it is a little better. May be a good choice if you have kids, as I remember them having a whole children's area.
http://www.decatur-ga.com

4) Taste of Atlanta- This one is always a crowd pleaser. For the past 2 years it has been at Atlantic Station. I had a nice time last year (though I am a bad judge, as I couldn't eat 75% of what was offered). It is a little pricey. You can buy tickets online (or a several stores in Atlanta like Cook's Warehouse) or at the event. I suggest getting tickets ahead of time because the lines are out of control.
http://tasteofatlanta.net

5) Howl-O-Weenie 2008- This annual dachshund festival is taking place in Cabbage town this year. Come out to see the dachshund costume contest, several races and face-kissing contest (I don't make these things up, folks). I would like to say that DI is throwing our support behind Katie (see pic) and wish her best of luck in the costume contest (going as a chicken nugget) and the race.
http://www.dreamdachsierescue.com/HowlOWeenie

Happy Festival-ing!

Lunch at H+F Bread Co.

2008-10-07T13:55:00.001-04:00

I just received an email that made my day and, quite possibly, my week: H&F Bread Co. is now serving soups and sandwiches daily from 11am to 3pm.

"In addition to our Hearth Baked Breads and Artisan Pastries, H&F Bread Co. is pleased to announce our Soup and Sandwich menu.

Each day, Monday-Friday 11-3, Chef Linton Hopkins and his team prepare a fresh soup and two sandwiches, savory scones and focaccia breads.

On Saturday and Sunday enjoy a soup or quiche of the day, savory scones and focaccia breads.

The Menu This Week Includes:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tuesday, October 7
Soup:
White Bean and Kale

Sandwich: Chicken Salad on Country French Loaf
Pita with Arugula, Roast Eggplant and Grilled Peppers and Goat Cheese

Wednesday, Oct 8
Soup:
Old Fashioned Tomato and Basil

Sandwiches:
Cucumber and Cream Cheese on toasted Rye
Pita with Arugula, Roast Eggplant and Grilled Peppers and Goat Cheese

Thursday, Oct 9
Soup: Shrimp & Corn Chowder

Sandwiches: Olive Oil Poached Tuna, Baby Romaine, Chopped Egg and Anchovy on Grilled Country French
Pita with Arugula, Roast Eggplant and Grilled Peppers and Goat Cheese

Friday, Oct 10
Soup:
Butternut Squash Soup OR new Orleans Gumbo

Sandwiches:
Toasted Baguette with New Orleans Ham, Butter and Pickled Red Onion
Pita with Arugula, Roast Eggplant and Grilled Peppers and Goat Cheese

Saturday and Sunday, Oct 11 and 12
Soup:
Split Pea Soup

Quiche:
Quiche Lorraine"

H&F Bread Co.
2255 Peachtree Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
404.350.8822
www.hfbreadco.com

Black Lip Gloss from YSL

2008-10-07T11:23:00.005-04:00

As you may know, one of the hot new trends in beauty this fall is black lip gloss. I have been seeing this trend since the A/W runway shows in the spring and decided to hold off on establishing an opinion until I tried it myself. Of course everything looks innovative and fresh on the runway, but real life can be another store.

The 2 major purveyors of black lip gloss currently are YSL and Lancome. Lancome created a limited edition sparkly gloss that is only available in select locations- and they only released 450 tubes. Clearly, I was not going to get my hands on that.

I was able to track down a tube of the YSL black gloss at the Phipps Saks Fifth Avenue. I was assuming that something made for consumers would be more on the shear side, not as dramatic and opaque as what was sent down the runway. I was very mistaken.

It is black as night and almost totally opaque. The gloss has really more of lip lacquer feel to it as it is very sticky, like Mac's Lipglass or Napoleon Perdis's gloss. I was thinking it should be more of a balm texture, as that may help with blending. This really felt (and looked) like tar. It is almost completely solid in color. I can see how the black gloss may look good on top of a deep vamp red, as I had seen it in the YSL look book. I stand firm that changing the consistency could make this more versatile. I am happy that YLS did have the guts to put out something this different and didn't "water it down" for mass markets.

Sadly, I do not have the complexion for this trend- blond hair, fair skin and green eyes. I could see how someone with really dark hair and eyes may be able to pull this off. On me, I looked like an 8th grader trying to become Goth. Or someone who ate a blueberry pie and didn't have a napkin handy. Sadly (or rather good for me), I did not take a picture of this beauty experiment.

If you have embraced the trend, send me a pic- I applaud you!
I think Saks still has a few tubes left, but I would hurry (you can't order online- at least I couldn't find anyone who stocked it).

I'm an Elitist

2008-10-05T21:25:00.007-04:00

A few months ago, I was intrigued by my friend, B.'s constant remarks of how he was "yelping" about this restaurant or that restaurant. He did it so often, that I finally signed up for a Yelp account of my own. I had one original goal: to post more reviews than B. While that hasn't happened yet (B. didn't even know about this competition!), I did become somewhat of a Yelp addict.

And then, as if they sensed my addiction and wanted to enable it, I was invited by Yelp to become part of their Yelp Elite Squad! Yelp describes this bevy of critics as, "...a way of recognizing the most passionate yelpers that makes our community so funny, useful and cool! Yelp Elites get a nifty annual badge on their Yelp profiles, and have the opportunity to get invited to exclusive local events and parties hosted by Yelp, where you can meet fellow yelpers."

Last Tuesday, Yelp hosted a party for members of their Elite squad (and their plus ones) at Woodfire Grill. Since I was eager to try it out now that Michael Touhy has moved back to California, I was thrilled at the choice of locale.

C-Dub was the plus one of crazy eyes on the left

Wow, wow, wow. It was so good.

smoked trout and apple profitertole with Georgia caviar

grilled culotte with Vietnamese herbs, pickled vegetables, and chili sauce

in the front: pate de campagne with grilled bread, spicy mustard, and watermelon pickles
in the back: foie gras mouse on pecan raisin toast

corn meal fried sweet pepper stuffed with cheese grits

blackberry bramble made of plymouth gin, fresh muddled blackberry, fresh lime juice,
and imported crème de cassis to wash it all down

In addition to the great food and drinks, there was a little photo booth were Yelpers could take pictures that represent the Seven Deadly Sins, to be included in an exhibition of the same name at the Granite Room during Atlanta Celebrates Photography.

Can you guess the sin we represent?

Brown Bag'n It: Kashi Pocket Bread Sandwich

2008-10-04T09:44:00.003-04:00

On this past Monday, all the cool foodie kids attended Amuse Cochon, a benefit for Slow Food Atlanta. A description of the event on the Atlanta Taste Network's site details the night as, "Amuse Cochon is a friendly competition and fundraiser for Slow Food Atlanta. The chef can prepare their 60 pound heritage pig with any device and sauces, as they believe necessary to win the title...Chefs include: Todd Mussman of Muss & Turners, Jay Swift of 4th and Swift, Allan Benton of Benton Smoky Country Hams, and Kevin Rathbun of Rathbun's Restaurants and the 5 Season's Brewing Team."

Who wouldn't want to go, right? Certainly not me! I wanted to be there to support the slow food movement and see all those fantastic chefs in action.

But, a series of recent events (an out of town wedding, an unscheduled doggy surgery, the ECONOMY), have left me a little low in the funds. And, knowing that I wanted to treat my mom to a delicious dinner on her birthday, I decided not to attend.

In keeping with this "Let's Build Back up the ole Bank Account" theme, I decided to bring my lunch into work this week*. So C-Dub and I headed out to Publix to load up on foods we could bring into work for lunch.

Now, I wish I could be like other friends of mine who actually put lunches and dinners together. But, sadly, I am not. (I'm still working on this. I'm just not there, yet!) So, when I came across this yummy looking frozen Kashi pocket bread sandwich, it seemed just perfect for a lunch at my desk.

I wanted to try the veggie medley sandwich above. But there was only one box left at Publix and it looked like someone had tried to pry it open. So, I went with the next one available - the Turkey Fiesta pocket sandwich.

The first good sign about this frozen sammy was when I walked into the break room to retrieve it from the microwave and a coworker remarked at how delicious it smelled. Excellent! No scary Lean Cuisine or Smart Ones smells were emitted from the microwave that day. (Or at least at that moment.)

The second good sign was the look of it. It actually looked like something I wanted to eat! Before I cut into it, it looked like a warm, oversized wheat roll.

These signs were not misleading - it was actually tasty. No scary dark meat here, just recognizable, lean turkey with red peppers, onions, and black beans. I would definitely have this again. And since it is only $3.50, it isn't too bad of a price for a daily lunch.

Next time around, I'd like to try the veggie sandwich! And, for all my vegan friends, the box states that the veggie sandwich is vegan. So, you can partake in this frozen delight on a day when you don't feel like whipping up something from scratch.

*I was only successful in avoiding the siren song of MetroFresh for one day. I'm sure I'll try to do better next week!

This one's for the guys!- Sale

2008-10-03T13:56:00.005-04:00

I've gotten several requests for more posts about men's fashion. I would love some suggestions. In the meantime go out and embrace your inner Tim Gunn (or James Bond?) and visit Barney's for some great discounts. You can shop online or at the Atlanta Co-op (at Phipps). My recommendations are button-downs by Trovata (shout-out to JAL) and anything Loomstate.

(and yes, the Blue Man Group-like forms are freaking me out).

Birthday Cakes and Ale

2008-10-03T00:19:00.001-04:00

from the inside, looking out

One of the fun things about my Mom's birthday is that she lets me take her out to dinner - my choice! It's almost as if it's my birthday all over again. Last year, I chose Bacchanalia for her and, of course, we had a great time. She was a little concerned about the prix-fixe meal but, after convincing her to reconsider, she was happy to indulge!

This year, I picked out Cakes & Ale. My friend, Julie, and I went went there on my birthday and it was so, so good. And, I happily discovered, they serve the same sparkling rosé as the one I love at Holeman & Finch!

on the corner of Ponce and Ponce Place

This dinner might have been better than our dinner at Bacchanalia. No, I'm not saying I think Cakes & Ale is better than Bacchanalia. But, I was able to run straight from work and meet C-Dub and my mom there without the worry that I was going to be sitting next to a man in a suit. Also, we sat in the booth right next to the front door, surrounded by windows. Hello? Perfect picture taking light!

'ello, Mum!

what to choose, what to choose...

I would say that it is not an overstatement to describe our meal as amazing. The food was just flawless and amazing. As Rachel Zoe would say, "I die!" It was that good.

Oh, and I'm not going to waste your time with words. I'm just going to show you the pics and then say, "Get thyself to Cakes & Ale with haste."

these were good and I was starving when I arrived

my sparkling rosé - Michlits Rose Frizzante Burgenland

Heirloom tomato salad with goat cheese
(veggies from the Cakes & Ale farm)

toast pocket stuffed with zucchini salad & mint
(perfectly toasted!)

Fried okra with ranch dressing - a dream!

Braised chicken leg & thigh with roasted okra, potatoes, eggplant & tomatoes

Pork tenderloin with whipped sweet potatoes, green beans with corn & pepper relish

cheeseburger & fries!

Hazelnut brownie pie with orange creamsicle ice cream
(who would've thought all those flavors would go together!)

Local apple strudel with dried cherries & softly whipped cream
(my mom's choice)

Yay birthday!

Cakes & Ale
254 W Ponce de Leon Ave
Decatur, GA 30030
404.377.7994
www.cakesandalerestaurant.com

Shecky's Girls Night Out- Oct. 29-30

2008-10-02T13:13:00.004-04:00

Shecky's is this national shopping party/event that travels around to different cities. There are lots of jewelry, purse, clothing, accessory, etc. designers who come out for the event and offer their items at really great discounted rates. On top of that, lots of national brands are there with drinks and appetizers. Think of it as a giant sample sale with sponsors.

One of the big draws to the Shecky events are their goodie bags. Supposedly each person who signs up in advance will receive a goodie bag with $100 worth of "cool stuff". I wasn't overly impressed with mine last time, but I've heard they have gotten better over the last year. And who doesn't like free stuff? It is $25 to sign up, but you get a buy-one-get-one free admission. So either invite a friend, or split the fee.

Click on the graphic for more information and to sign up. I think it's worth the time and $$$. I got a really great necklace last time around.

Tracy Ewell- Makeover Event!

2008-10-01T13:46:00.005-04:00

Tracy and Natalie are having an amazing event coming up in October.

The Fall Makeover will be October 16th, Thursday from 10-6pm

We have limited appointments available so you should call to book yours today. We will be introducing you to some of our favorite items and have a special gift with purchase! Makeovers are free and the perfect excuse for that new look you've been wanting. We are also announcing the new line Blinc! We sold Blinc mascara in New Orleans and now back by popular demand, we will be featuring Kiss Me Mascara. This unique mascara lengthens builds volume and stays on like waterproof without the damage or the need for a special remover!

I highly suggest taking advantage of this offer. As I've spoken about before, they are AMAZING with make-up and to get a free session with them is a really awesome opportunity. I already booked my appointment and have a feeling they will go fast, so call them ASAP.

Tracy Ewell Cosmetics & Skincare

775 Lake Ave NE

Atlanta, GA 30307

www.tracyewell.com

404-588-9151

10Ten Nail Spa

2008-10-01T13:20:00.003-04:00

For a while, if you wanted to get your nails done, you had 2 options. 1) Go to the cheap places in strip malls and pray that you didn't get some crazy fungus OR 2) Pay a ridiculous amount of money and go to a spa.

Luckily, in the past several years, the concept of "Nail Bars" have been cropping up all over. They are a solid mid-priced solution- giving you a great treatment, at a decent price and of course, pretty nails.

I believe that Sugarcoat on Pharr Road in Buckhead was the first of its kind here in Atlanta. I love them and they will always have a place in my heart (nail bed?) for them.

With that said, I have gone several times to 10Ten Nail Bar and have had a great experience each time. They are owned by Natural Body Spa and up until recently, only had 2 locations- one in Virginia Highlands and one in Snellville. 2 weeks ago, they opened their 3rd location in Brookhaven (and wouldn't you know it- just 2 minutes from my new place).

I checked them out this weekend and was not disappointed! I was pleased to get a same-day appointment, as that is nearly impossible at their VH location. I am sure that as they gain popularity, that luxury will be gone. My nail technician was really nice and even though it was their last appointment on a Sunday, she didn't make me feel rushed at all.

10Ten lets you customize your experience by letting you choose scrubs, soaks and lotions that are all related to the different elements- wood, air, fire, water, and metal. They are all proprietary blends that they mix in-house from natural ingredients, like brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon oil, lavender. Click here to see what is included in each "element". (I got fire this time and loved the cinnamon lotion!).

Another fun perk is that you can relax with an eye mask and a heated shoulder pillow while you are getting your treatment. They also use Opi nail polish- I choose jet black this time.

I highly recommend 10Ten. Their website has not been updated with the Brookhaven contact information.

10Ten Nail Bar
The Avenues, Virginia Highlands and Brookhaven

A Bhojanic Alternative

2008-10-01T06:00:00.000-04:00

Inspired by a writeup by the Blissful Glutton; my friend, Rachel, and I headed over to Panahar last Monday to partake in some delicious Bangladeshi delights. Here's a tip for anyone headed out to eat on Monday - be sure to check the restaurants hours before you do so, as many restaurants are closed on Mondays. This is something we did not do and were unpleasantly greeted by a big, fat CLOSED sign on Panahar's door. What now?

We talked about going to Desta, as we knew we could always have a good meal there. But, we were just in the mood for something different - food seasoned with a different kind of spice. So, I suggested we try Bhojanic. Bhojanic is an Indian restaurant that I figured might cure our spice craving. While Bangladeshi food is most akin to northern Indian cuisine and Bhojanic serves southern Indian cuisine, it might be a good alternative for us. (By the way - if I have the regions all mixed up, please pipe in. I'm no expert on Indian cuisine and would definitely appreciate the correction.)

It had been about two years or so since I'd last been to Bhojanic and I didn't realize that they had expanded their dining room, giving them quite a bit more of space.

The expanded dining room

Everything looks good when you're ravenous!

Perusing the menu, we really didn't know what we wanted. Our waitress suggested we try the thalis, the traditional Indian combination platters. Okay, that was sounding good to us because the platters came with a lot of food - all thalis are served with Rice Pullao, Chapati (whole wheat flat bread), Raita (cucumber yogurt sauce), Indian pickle, Papadam (crispy lentil cracker), and a small salad - and we were ready to chow down.

Look at all the food!

I got the shakhahari (pure vegetarian platter) and Rachel ordered the bhojanic, which was one meat and two veggies. Sadly, I did not take the specials menu with me and I can't remember exactly what we ordered. I do remember I got the chole (in the picture above, it is the top middle dish in the bottom platter - make sense?), which is most like a chana masala, a chickpea dish. I also got baby eggplants and potatoes (in the picture above, it is to the left of the chole), which was really tasty.

I believe Rachel's meat entree was a chicken stewed in a sauce made with coconut milk. She also ordered the chole, along with a different eggplant dish as her second veggie.

We still want to get back to Panahar on a night when they are actually open. But we were very pleased with our meal from Bhojanic and left rubbing our stomachs, feeling very full and satisfied.

Please take a moment to admire Rachel's hair, as she just had it cut.
Just lovely, right?

Bhojanic
1363 Clairmont Road
Decatur, GA 30033
404.633.9233
www.bhojanic.com

Maru Sushi, long overdue

2008-09-30T05:44:00.008-04:00

When I first moved out to God's Country, as B. lovingly calls the area where I live (It's within the city limits, though!), I had no clue what good restaurants were nearby. Coming from the Highlands, I regularly ate at places in my neighborhood or Little Five Points or in East Atlanta. The Westside was totally foreign to me.

One evening, C-Dub and I decided to drive around and look for a place to eat. We drove for (what seemed like, at the time) forever, not seeing much that interested us. Then, we saw it in bright neon: SUSHI. Oh yeah, we're sushi fiends. We love MF Sushi but we'll put up with Rusan's for a hit, even if we normally regret it. Trying out an unknown sushi restaurant can be hit or miss - and we were willing to take that risk.

Thankfully, we were rewarded with perfectly vinegared sushi rice (a pet peeve of C-Dub's), fresh fish, a great value, and - best of all - a dedicated husband and wife owner team with courteous and professional staff.

I say best of all because Sonhee and Joe quickly become friends with everyone who walks in through their door. If something is not to your liking, Sonhee will quickly rush it away and return with a new dish. I've seen Sonhee handle even the most obnoxious customer with ease, making it hard for that person to leave with a grudge. Having been to places where it seems like no one cares about their restaurant or return business, their devotion and enthusiasm for what they do is refreshing.

Writing about Maru has been long, long overdue. So, C-Dub and I went there last week to grab some food and take some pics.

We decided to get our usual: chirashi, futomaki, and wakame salad.

C-Dub pretending he doesn't have the menu memorized

I love their wakame salad. Maru puts a ponzu sauce (a citrus-based sauce) on top of their seaweed salad but I usually ask for it on the side. (Yeah, they put up with that crap from me. So, you can see why I keep going back.)

Looks good, right?

Futomaki!

Their chirashi has got to be one of the best values around. For under $20, you get a huge mound of sushi rice with the chef's choice of fresh sashimi on top. Plus, your order comes with a salad topped with ginger dressing - it's not that mayo-y grossness that some restaurants give you! - and a warm bowl of miso soup.

See? Not a drop of mayo in this ginger dressing!

Doesn't this look fresh?

To mix things up, C-Dub ordered a salmon skin hand roll to round out the meal.

Salmon skin hand roll

This hand roll makes me think of their lunch buffet. Okay, stop right there. I know you're going, "Lunch buffet? Ugh, no thanks!" and I hear you. But, stop thinking of the awful buffet that Rusan's serves and start thinking of a delicious plethora of choices that include the expected (california rolls) but also has the unanticipated, like hand rolls and inari. And, of course, you get that yummy miso soup and ginger salad - all for under $15!

Sadly, I don't work close enough to Maru to eat lunch there on a regular basis. But, when I've got a weekday off, you can bet I am in Maru loading up a plate!

Maru Sushi
4454 South Cobb Dr
Smyrna, GA 30080
770.863.9236
Maru's profile on Facebook

Souper Jenny's 10th Anniversary

2008-09-29T16:26:00.004-04:00

Next week marks the 10th anniversary of a favorite Atlanta lunch spot, Souper Jenny. To celebrate, they have events planned for every day of the week:

"Monday, October 6
Elisa Gambino from Via Elisa, Linton Hopkins from Restaurant Eugene and Gerry Klaskala from Aria will join Jenny and her Dad (yes, the one of My Dad's Turkey Chili fame) in the kitchen as they each make their favorite soup for the lunch service.

Tuesday, October 7
Free cupcake decorating and balloon fun for the kids and the kid in you! Cupcakes provided by The Little Cake Bakery.

Wednesday, October 8
Live music with Rouzbeh on the patio during lunch and free slices of Breadwinner sweet breads!

Thursday, October 9
Free 30 minute readings with Jenny's favorite psychic. First 10 people to request an appointment by email at souperjennys@aol.com will receive a confirmation email with a specific time.

Grilled Cheese Night, October 9
100% of our sales will be donated to Bert's Big Adventure. Visit www.allthehitsq100.com/bertshow and click on the Bert's Big Adventure button on the right side of the screen to see what this amazing charity is all about!

Friday, October 10
Big Blowout Party... wine, beer and food. Begins at 7:00pm and everyone is invited!!"

I'm most looking forward to Monday, October 6th. I can't wait to see what Linton Hopkins' favorite soup might be!

Souper Jenny's super sammies

Souper Jenny
56 East Andrews Drive
Atlanta, GA 30305
404.237.7687
www.souperjennyatl.com

National Pancake Day?

2008-09-26T09:51:00.004-04:00

According to Hungry Girl, today is National Pancake Day. Now while I can't find anything online to back this up (IHOP gives away free pancakes on February 12, the day they call National Pancake Day), I'm willing to dedicate two days out of the year to pancakes. I love pancakes a lot.

My favorite places for pancakes? I'm glad you asked! I love the pancakes at Ria's Bluebird and World Peace Cafe. And, while I am not a fan of IHOP's pancakes, I do really like the pancakes at The Original Pancake House. (I guess that is why they are the original.)

The pancakes at Ria's Bluebird...yum!

I normally go for the plain stuff but the cranberries and oranges in
World Peace Cafe's Vegan Cranberry-Orange Pancakes are sooo good!

What are your favorite places for pancakes?

Ria's Bluebird
421 Memorial Drive SE
Atlanta, GA 30312
404.521.3737
www.riasbluebird.com

World Peace Cafe
220 Hammond Drive
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
404.256.2100
www.worldpeacecafeatlanta.com

The Original Pancake House
2321 Cheshire Bridge Road
Atlanta, Georgia 30324
404.633.5677
www.originalpancakehouse.com

Urban Cottage Website Launch

2008-09-24T11:18:00.003-04:00

One of DI's favorite stores has just launched its website. Although it is not set up for e-commerce, you can take a look at all the cool items they have for sale. I especially love the pinch pots and other unique handmade pottery by Carla Kaiser. She is a great local artist that does amazing claywork.

You should also check out the Invitations section to see the unique wedding and baby invites by Matt Berinato exclusively available at Urban Cottage. It almost makes me want to get married.

www.urbancottageatlanta.com

Finally, Urban Cottage is having a huge fall event this weekend.

Saturday September 27th 11-9 & Sunday September 28th 11-6 Snacks, Sangria, Music, Tarot card readings and coloring books by Carla Kaiser, new fall merchandise from Coleccion Luna, Dialog (activism you can wear), Handmade jewelry by Heather Curtis, invitations and stationary by Matt Berinato and Katie Kaiser: fun, fun, fun!

(image- Urban Cottage)

Tobi.com- 25% off Everything!

2008-09-18T11:37:00.014-04:00

Tobi.com is a website with tons of trendy, high-end brands, just like Singer22.com or ShopBop.com. If you are in need of fun, fall clothes I would take advantage of this offer- 25% off is pretty good. They have stylists you can instant message if you have a question about their products, which is a nice feature. I contacted a stylist once to ask a question about a top, but they never got back to me. Oh well.
Enjoy!

Movin' Day!

2008-09-18T11:37:00.009-04:00

I am excited to say that I am finally moving to my new place this weekend. While packing is a NIGHTMARE, it has been fun trying to figure out how to design my new space. I am on a "shopping diet" so I really want to work with what I currently own. With that being said, a girl has to live a little.

Here are some of my favorite new finds. I am going with the design aesthetic of "Things I Like". It is similar to when I was little and I dressed myself. I would really like a shirt, let's say stripes- and then I would pick out shorts that were let's say, polka dots. Since I really like the shirt and I really liked the shorts, then that must mean the outfit would be amazing! My poor mother did not want to stunt my creativity and therefore sent me to preschool in whatever crazy outfit I picked out. I think she must have prayed that people didn't think she was the one dressing me.

Anyway, I am going to just fill my apartment with pretty things I like and hope that in a quirky way, they work- think Shabby Chic/Anthropologie. No color scheme, no theme, just cool stuff.
Here is a not so great image of my new little rug I am planning on putting in my bedroom. It is small, only 2x3, but will be perfect in front of the bed. If you want to check out the detailing, go to anthropologie.com.

I am also very excited about my dish towels (hey, I'm excited!), also from Anthropologie. All of my kitchen accessories, like my Kitchen Aid stand mixer are pink, so I think these should be a nice addition. They should work with what I currently have, but not make the kitchen overly pink and girly.

Top Chef Tour in Atlanta

2008-09-18T08:59:00.003-04:00

I got a tip (thanks Ryan!) that pre-registration for tickets to the Top Chef Tour in Atlanta on Saturday, Sept. 27th opened yesterday. But, by 8:30am, all times were sold out. Now, the tickets are are on a first-come, first-served basis the day of the tour. (For those that don't know, the chefs will be Atlanta's own Richard Blais and Casey Thompson from Season 3.)

Did anyone manage to pre-register? If so, count me as jealous!

Dia De Los Muertos en Las Provisiones de la Estrella

2008-09-17T22:02:00.001-04:00

Yenta Girl and I were killing time at Star Provisions yesterday before we met some friends for happy hour drinks at the upstairs bar at JCT. I was just telling her how much I loved their Halloween decorations when we came upon a display that took our breath away:

Day of the Dead paraphernalia! How cool is this? It was (possibly, just slightly) better than the Halloween decorations! We were practically drooling all over the display, exploring each little knick and knack.

And just when we thought it couldn't get any better, we turned the corner into the bakery and, wow! Sugar skulls, chocolate skulls, and skeleton cakes, oh my!

I implore you to go check it out!

Star Provisions
1198 Howell Mill Road
Atlanta, GA 30318
404.365.0410
www.starprovisions.com

Movies and Rogue'n under the stars

2008-09-15T22:19:00.007-04:00

Lady Rogue is full of ideas. Just ask her - she is busting at the seams keeping it in so she can surprise us at each rogueApron. All she'll really say is how excited she is about the impending event.

Well, her excitement is totally justified; each event is so much fun and creatively planned. (Curious about the previous events? Click here for my post on the fourth rogueApron event or here for my post on the third event. I've also got pictures from the second event here.)

So, when I got the invite to attend this past Sunday evening, I had to go even though I was only going to be back in town from Milwaukee just a few hours prior. Plus, it sounded awesome! Night at the movies - how was that going to work?

We later found out that it meant burgers on pretzel rolls grilled under the stars at the Starlight Six Drive-In!

A couple of rogue volunteers!

There were two homemade burgers - handmade beef patties seasoned with sea salt and cracked pepper or southwestern veggie/vegan burgers. Each burger was served on a fresh, homemade pretzel bun with a side of yummy, homemade chips. And, to top off your burgers, there was homemade mustard and ketchup, both mixed with East Atlanta Brewery Mother Of All Porters for a kick! (Tired of me using the word, "homemade"? Too bad! Everything - and I do mean everything - is made from scratch at rogueApron events. duh.)

A burger out of the dark

mother of all!!

Spicy...but sweet!

rogue attendees putting together their burgers

Before (or after the burgers, if you're like me), there was delicious, spiced popcorn to nosh on.

popcorn by candle light

the popcorn lined up before the movie watchers

To wash it all down, we had three East Atlanta Brewery choices to pick from: Dave's Pale Ale, Nutmeg Whitbier, or Double Agent Orange.

the EAB menu

Oh, you thought that was it? You thought wrong! Lady Rogue doesn't skimp on dessert - not when there is chocolate-covered-lucky-charms-sprinkled Twinkies to be had! (If you're wrinkling your nose right now, it's only because you've never had one.)

...on a stick, no less!

movie watchers and rogue eaters

If you'd like to attend the next Rogue Apron event, go to their website and sign up for the mailing list. And don't sit on the email when you get it - sign up immediately. Lady Rogue's events are the talk of the town and fill up within hours of her pressing "send"!

White After Labor Day? The Truth Revealed!

2008-09-11T15:03:00.008-04:00

So lately I have had several people ask me about the old "You can't wear white after Labor Day" adage. And as the resident fashionista on this blog, I am here to clear a few things up.
I had this same conversation with my dear friend LD last year. And we came to the conclusion that it IS OK and actually very in vouge to wear white after Labor Day. BUT you must check the weight, length and type of fabric first.

Here are some examples of what I mean:

1) White pants- go ahead and wear them, but the fabric must be heavy- like a wool or cool weather fabric. Linen would not be OK, as that is a summer fabric. They also need to be trouser length- not capris, as capri pants are for summer or spring. I think a cream colored jean would be alright, but not a bright white.

2) White Skirts- same as pants. They need to be a heavier fabric, but I am saying no to white jean skirts. Again, no linen, light-weight silk or any kind of summery fabric. I also believe the skirt needs to be on the longer side, a length that could be worn with boots or booties.

3) White shoes- I personally think white shoes are the devil. I have not found a pair of white shoes I like. I don't even really like them for weddings (I think a pair of light baby blue heels would be fab!). I don't like them even on Easter (but as you have probably guessed, Yenta Girl doesn't celebrate Easter- but even if I did, I would not wear white shoes). I digress... Anyway, I would stay away from white shoes after Labor Day for sure. If you HAD to wear white shoes, they have to be winter appropriate. That means leather and closed toe, not a strappy sandal.

4) White purses- These are fine. Just make sure that it is a sturdy bag and leather. It would be great if it had some strong metal-work (think buckle, etc) to make it seem heavier. I want to clarify I mean heavier in silhouette, not in actual weight.

You can always increase the appropriateness of your white by wearing other cool-weather clothes to make the outfit work for the season.

Please feel free to ask any "White after Labor Day" questions... I will be sure to write back!

Napoleon Perdis for Target- Stay Away!

2008-09-10T11:58:00.003-04:00

I am a major fan of Napoleon Perdis's make-up line. One of his best known products (and the one that I think put him on the map) is his pre-foundation primer- his tag line is "Not to Prime is a Crime". I never saw the purpose of primer until I tried his. It did make my skin wonderfully smooth and provided the perfect canvas for my foundation. It isn't something I would use everyday, but it is worth the extra time and effort to apply primer for special occasions/night out/hot date, etc. I also am a major fan of his lip glosses. They are VERY sticky and stay put. If you like the feeling of Mac's Lip Glass, you will love his glosses.

When Target announced that Napoleon Perdis was coming out with a line for their store I was ecstatic. The Target line is called NP Set. All the productions are named after destinations- like Sweden, Venezuela, Russia.... I spent about half an hour staring at the display contemplating what to get. I'm sure everyone that passed by thought I was crazy, but I didn't care. I finally settled on a white eyeliner called Montreal (if you line the inside of your lower eyelid with white, it is a great trick for making your eyes look bright and open) and the primer. Since the regular primer is so awesome, I assumed this one would be just as great. How can you go wrong with Target?

Well my cyber- friends, I was sadly mistaken. Both products were terrible. The eyeliner did not go on smoothly at all; it had a chalky consistency and the primer was a waste of time and money. I was so disappointed that I returned them the very same day. I would also like to point out that the line is NOT cheap. The primer was $29 and the eyeliner was $20! You can get almost any brand eyeliner at Sephora, the mall, etc. for $20. As for the primer- I would recommend spending the extra $10 and get the real Napoleon Perdis primer (it is sold at Sephora as well as my favorite make-up spot, Entebello) .

Starbucks' Perfect Oatmeal?

2008-09-08T22:46:00.003-04:00

The other day, I hit up my local Starbucks for a frap-frap (yeah, I've got a nickname for Frappucinos) and saw that they are now selling oatmeal. Or, I should say, Perfect Oatmeal. I'm a sucker for new things - especially if they are supposed to be better for you. So, I decided to grab a bowl to go.

I had three choices of accompaniments for my oatmeal: dried fruit, brown sugar, or a nut medley. I chose the dried fruit, you know, to give the oatmeal some color.

oatmeal, unfettered

oatmeal, post dried fruit topping

Now, I'm not sure I would go so far as to say perfect. But, for a place that is essentially serving food fast (read: fast food), it is pretty damn good. I've had clumpy, congealy oatmeal from fast food places before and this is not that. Yeah, I'd eat it again.

Plus, it's nice to see a snack on the Starbucks menu that isn't crazy high in calories. The plain outmeal has 140 calories and 2.5 grams of fat. Compare that to a Starbucks blueberry muffin that has 360 calories and 10 grams of fat or a cinnamon scone, which has 500 calories and 19 grams of fat.

Okay, that isn't totally fair to compare oatmeal to a delicious, delicious scone. I mean, if I had my druthers, I would totally scarf up a cinnamon scone and then burp heartily. But, you got to eat responsibly most days, right?

Hanil Kwan, revisted

2008-09-07T23:17:00.006-04:00

My friends Carol, Jim (who prefers to be called by his internet handle, Babs), and I have been talking about getting some Korean barbecue for a long time. But, since Babs has been so busy at work to spend time with his friends, we've had to reschedule many, many, many times.

After many reschedules, Carol and I finally decided to just go ahead and grab dinner at the place with "the grazing cows on the sign"with or without Jim. Little did I know that I had already been to the Korean restaurant Carol was thinking of, Hanil Kwan, once before.

grazing cows

The time C-Dub and I went there, we had bulgogi (marinated beef) and dahk galbi (marinated chicken). I wasn't crazy about the chicken because it was all dark meat. But, I was happy to give Hanil Kwan another try!

This time around, we got two dishes that we had never tried before at Hanil Kwan: short ribs and shrimp.

The waitress prepares the meat!

shrimp on top, short ribs near the bottom

It was really delicious! My only wish would have been to have a little bit more spice to the shrimp marinade. Other than that, the beef (which I rarely eat) was quite tasty and the banchan (all those side dishes to the Korean barbecue) were delectable. It was a very good deal for the amount of food we got.

After our dinner, we drove up the street to Mozart Bakery, a Korean and Japanese bakery, to grab some pastries.

bright & clean!

C-Dub ordered cream-filled crumb bread and Carol and I shared some daifuku (glutinous rice cake filled with sweetened red bean paste made from azuki beans).

Creamy and cakey

before the eating

chewy chomp!

I enjoyed the daifuku and I am pretty sure C-Dub enjoyed his pastry, even though he described the cream as tasting like straight up whipped butter.

I thought this was a great little bakery. There were a lot of treats to choose including my favorite, anpan (a sweet bun filled with sweet adzuki beans)Mmm! Plus, it was big, bright, and very clean.

Ooh, and if you are a fan of bubble tea (or any other type of tea, for that matter), Mozart Bakery has plenty of flavors to choose from.

Hanil Kwan
5458 Buford Hwy NE
Doraville, GA 30340
404.724.0151

Mozart Bakery
5301 Buford Hwy NE
Doraville, GA 30340
770.936.8726

Domokun at Target!

2008-09-07T12:18:00.005-04:00

Okay, I know this doesn't have to do with fashion or food (unless Halloween candy counts) but it does have to do with spending your money. So, I figured I would go ahead and post it.

Domokun at Target!!!!

That is all.

Luxe- Sample Sale

2008-09-04T14:21:00.004-04:00

This weekend only, Luxe is having a huge sample sale with amazing top designer pieces and piece that were worn on movie sets!-

This is the Largest LUXE - Atlanta event for Fall and for the first time ever we will be introducing a special collection of wardrobe pieces from a NYC stock house WARDROBE-NYC featuring high end designer items worn on the set of your favorite movies including Devil Wears Prada, Nanny Diaries and this years favorite SEX and the CITY! There is a limited amount of this inventory.
Designers represented will include: Zac Posen, Prada, Temperley, Lanvin, Peter som, Project ALabama , Norsah, Rami Kashou, Ecoskin, AKA New York, IZAAK, Verdier Jewelry and many more will be added!!

I recommend checking Luxe out if you haven't already. They are basically a sample sale store that carries top designer lines (tops, jeans, dresses, jewelry) at a significant discount. Much of their merch. is bought from other stores in NYC, LA. I was told by someone who works there that often they buy the clothes in "lots" on speculation- therefore they never quite know what they will have until the shipment comes in. Luxe also puts together shopping events and has designers come in to show off their collections and allow you to order ahead of season. I've had some great finds at Luxe, the most notable being a pair of Chloe jeans for only $40. (too bad they don't fit me anymore, but that's not Luxe's fault).

LUXE - Atlanta
1000 Marietta Street
Atlanta, GA 30018
404.815.7470

A tale of two soups

2008-09-03T22:40:00.004-04:00

This past weekend, C-Dub and I ended up over at Alon's a couple of times to grab lunch. (Really, it was just an excuse to go to my new obsession afterwards - Yoforia. God, I love that place.)

Pomegranate yogurt with mochi...heaven in a cup!

I ordered a sandwich and a small cup of tomato basil soup. When I got the soup, I was a little crestfallen. It was orange! Ugh, why didn't they just call it tomato bisque? I gave it a shot and took a taste. Hmm...I think I know the recipe: heavy cream with a splash of tomato. Seriously? I could hardly taste the tomato in that soup. I remember telling C-Dub that I've been spoiled after the soups at Metro Fresh. The tomato soup at Metro actually tastes like tomato and doesn't weigh you down or make you feel piggish.

Luckily for me, I was able to make up for my soup sins at Metro Fresh today. They served a delicious tomato, roasted red pepper, and basil soup. Now this is how you do it!

Heaven in a...bowl?

That soup was truly amazing. It was super flavorful and the roasted red peppers added a nice twist to an old favorite. I gotta say, that soup seriously kicked some Alon's ass. It started me thinking that I would much prefer to go to Metro Fresh over Alon's any day.

On top of that, Metro Fresh now recycles their bottles and cans, something I don't think Alon's does.

Yay!

Am I the only one who is disenchanted with Alon's?

Metro Fresh
931 Monroe Drive
Atlanta, GA 30308
404.724.0151
www.metrofreshatl.com