Friday, October 30, 2009

WE LOVE FALL: Pumpkin Spiced Cider



Living in NY, a city that actually has seasons, I have learned to embrace and enjoy them. This year, we are really into Fall. Pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin pancakes, and pumpkin curry are all on the menu. This recipe comes just in time for Halloween. If you are getting together with friends tomorrow night try making a hot pot of
PUMPKIN SPICE CIDER.

INGREDIENTS (makes 1 cup)
4 oz apple cider
1 oz simple syrup
1 oz pumpkin puree
1 cinnamon stick
1 clove
2 oz Irish Whiskey
Dash fresh ground nutmeg
Cinnamon stick (garnish)

MIXING NOTES
Pour cider into pot and add all ingredients.
Bring to a simmer and steep for 30 minutes.
Pass through a china cap and chill (if served cold).
Add simple syrup to taste.
Finish with Powers Irish Whiskey.
Serve in a short old fashioned over rocks with cinnamon stick garnish.
Wonderful served hot but also great on ice.

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Thursday, October 29, 2009

Restaurant Profile: The Veggie Grill



The newest Veggie Grill location can be found at Crescent Heights and Sunset blvd.  Although I am not a vegetarian, this place pique my interested as it boasted items like, a Crispy Chicken Sandwich and Carne Asada.  I am weary of fake meat options just because I am a meat eater and they never taste the same- but I am happy to report the chefs here have worked wonders!

The food at Veggie Grill is fresh, tasty and unexpectedly delicious. I did not believe my chicken sandwich would taste just like a chicken sandwich- but it did.  So for vegetarians and carnivores- this is a restaurant for both of you! 

If you're looking for a healthy and tasty meal- Veggie Grill is a must try!  We recommend the Santa Fe Crispy Chicken Sandwich or the Grillin' Chicken Sandwich with Sweetheart Fries.  Their Fresh Squeezed Lemonade is also delicious!

8000 Sunset - Los Angeles
8000 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 | map
Phone 323.822.7575 | hours 11am to 11pm

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Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Rachel Bilson's Madewell look-for-less breakdown!



[FrugalFashionista.com]

The lovely blogger behind Frugal Fashionista delivered a breakdown of Rachel Bilson's look from the Madewell party (which was our Look of the Week this past week!!).  We are still obsessing over it! Check out their finds on: FrugalFashionista.com

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Style Profile: Justin Timberlake



In the past, The Culturistas have only profiled our favorite female star's fashion.  But there are also tons of male celebs that have an awesome fashion sense as well.  So for our first menswear style profile, it makes sense to choose singer/actor/and clothing designer: Justin Timberlake.  Justin has come a long way since his N'Sync days. He now has such a strong sense of style and even has his own fashion line, William Rast.



Key pieces in Justin's wardrobe: A Leather Jacket, 3-piece suits, vests (sweater and woven), Fedoras, Sneakers, Cuffed Jeans, Scarves and ties.

Justin loves to accessorize! So add a fedora, scarf or tie to jazz up any outfit.  Combine your dressy and casual outfits by throwing a pair of sneakers with your suit OR wear jeans with a three piece suit on top.

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Tuesday, October 27, 2009

BEST BRUNCH SPOTS OF NYC

If there is one thing New Yorkers love more than bagels, it is eating bagels at brunch. There is no shortage of great dining digs that thrive off the vibrant NY brunch scene. Whether you are in the mood for an ethnic hole in the wall or a scenester spot, this is one city in which you will never go hungry.

CAFETERIA
119 7 Ave
New York, NY 10011
(212) 414-1717

This trendy Chelsea restaurant is an eclectic mix of new American cuisine. They offer delicious salads, sandwiches and several breakfast options. The Mac Attack and Buffalo Chicken Sandwich are strongly recommended.

MIRIAM'S RESTAURANT
79 5th Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11215
(718) 622-2250

Miriam's is a neighborhood cafe that is cozy and bustling. This Israeli themed eatery has a mix of authentic Middle Eastern dishes and brunch staple items. The Culturistas recommend Ordering the Mediteranean Crispy Dough and the Shakshuka, poached eggs with tomato and pepper sauce served with pita and hummus.

7A CAFE
109 Ave A
New York, NY 10009
(212) 475-9001

Aside from having a wide variety of epicurean delights, the best part of 7A Cafe is the ambiance and outdoor seating. It makes for some of the best East Village people watching yet. Whatever you order, we strongly suggest the basket fries and a fountain soda. They are pro-refills!

SARABETH'S
23 Amsterdam Avenue
New York, N.Y. 10024
Phone: 212-496-6280

Sarabeth's is one of the Upper West Side's most popular lunch and brunch spots. Expect a wait of 40 minutes to an hour when going on the weekends. It is a warm environment encouraging of hot chocolate in warm booths. The Culturistas suggest ordering the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes and the Red Omelette.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. Let us know if there are any other places that should be on our list! Bon appetit!

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Monday, October 26, 2009

Look for Less: Zachary Quinto



We've already profiled Zachary Quinto as one of our Looks of the Week because we love his style. It's just so effortlessly cool.  Last night he attended the U2/Black Eyed Peas concert wearing this laid back hip look- dark jeans, a plaid shirt, a cardigan, beanie and converse.  You can find each piece for under 50 bucks if you know where to shop!  Target, Heritage, H&M, American Eagle and American Apparel are all great places to go!

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Cirque Du Soleil 's Kooza- PLAYING NOW!



For most, the name Cirque Du Soleil conjures up images of extraordinary performances, death defying stunts, and great entertainment. I am happy to report, KOOZA is no exception.  This show goes back to its roots as a big top circus, returning to circus traditions of acrobatic performance and the art of clowning.  But it is just as breathtaking and original as any Cirque Du Soleil show you have ever seen.  From expert jugglers and tight rope walkers to frighteningly fabulous contortionists, the show is beautiful, engaging and exciting.


Cirque is at it's best with Kooza when transporting the audience into their imaginary world.  From the moment you walk into the Big Top at the Santa Monica Pier, cast members talk amongst each other and interact with the audience, giving you a mini show to watch before the performance starts.  The hysterical cast members, "The King" and his sidekick clowns deliver many laughs as they include the audience in their gags.

Two of my favorite acts were a two-man acrobatic act on the "Wheel of Death" (pictured left) and an incredible contortionist trio.  The acts were flawlessly choreographed and executed.  In the 'Wheel of Death' act, the two men power the wheels themselves while they jump, flip, fall weightlessly and hold on to each wheel from death-defying heights.  The audience watches with baited breath as it looks like the men could fall to the ground at any moment.  But of course, they don't.  Similarly the contortionist trio has the most incredible act.  The three seamlessly balance on each other to create incredible shapes with the human form.  They contort their bodies in ways unimaginable to the viewer.  (Pictured below)



Cirque Du Soliel is really in a category of its own.  The performances are always incredible, from the sets and costumes to the music and acrobatics, Kooza really is a must see show!  It is fun for the whole family OR would make a fabulous date night :)  Go early and get dinner by the beach!  For all you Angelinos, Kooza is playing at the Santa Monica Pier until November 29th when it will move to Irvine. Shows are 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays; 4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $60 to $135 for adults. Running time: 2 hours, 30 minutes.   
Buy your tickets: Here

Photo Credits: Cirquedusoleil.com

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Sunday, October 25, 2009

Look of the Week: Rachel Bilson



Rachel Bilson attended the Madewell and Lucky Magazine Denim Event held at Chateau Marmont’s Bar Marmont this past week.  She wore a Madewell polka dot tank with a Juicy Couture sweater, Myne skirt, Phillip Lim 3.1 bag, stockings and vintage boots.  She kept her hair/makeup/accessories simple, deciding on an updo and no jewelry.  Rachel mixed and matched different fabrics and patterns to create a super cool look. We love this look! Not to mention the fact that we love her style in general!

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