the notorious wallflower

Dinner as a Show

2011-03-22T22:43:00.029-04:00

That's what Alinea is. Edible art. The level of creativity (and some might say pretension) on display at this restaurant is next level and I'm not just talking about on the table.
lemon+luxardo bitter+amaro+grapefruit, apple+apple brandy+grenadine+thyme, cynar+carpano antica+flor de cana+squash (all very boozy one bite wonders)

Steelhead roe+dijon+rutabaga+grapefruit

fried yuba stick wrapped in shrimp and togarashi with a miso mayo

urchin encased in a vanilla, watercress and mint jelly with cilantro flower

Halibut with parsnip pure, black pepper, coffee foam and lemon (too delicious and consumed to quickly to be captured by my lens but it was an all-white dish with a variety of textures)

this while orb contains the next three dishes:
rabbit parfait with sage and butternut squash chip

crispy fried panko-coated rabbit rillette with sorrel & sage (pictured in a partially eaten state)

rabbit consomme, cinnamon stick and hot stone (stone not edible)

Wild morel and hedgehog mushrooms with pickled ramps, pine foam and sumac with jus

hot potato/cold potato: black truffle, butter (a one bite wonder)

tomato and black pepper pasta +

(clockwise from top left) smoked salt + blackberry+roasted/caramelized garlic+fermented garlic+pickled turnip+olives+red wine compote+tabacco essence+onion ribbon+tomato consumme =

beef short rib ravioli

yellowtail (hamachi) with west indian spiced (including a lit cinnamon stick), banana and ginger deep fried ball

canard a la cussy: duck breast over carmelized onions, duck rillette, foie gras, cock's crest on phyllo

Venison stead, cherry and cocoa nib under fragrant eucalyptus

black truffle explotion: romaine&parmesan

(at this point my stomach is about to explode as i have been eating not only my dishes but the remnants of the dishes of my dining companion when she has finished eating all the components she enjoys). One of the servers comes over to let us know this is the last savoury dish,
coming up: 7 dessert courses

yuzu snow frozen onto a ceramic cone

sweet potato custard, candied pecans, saffron cotton candy, bourbon crunch & pear(?) on a red cedar plant (heated and emitting strong aromas)

lemongrass liquid with cilantro, finger lime, cucmber and dragonfruit...it's a shot and requires a little suction

butterscotch+apple+thyme bacon, nutella encased in freeze-dried bread, banana + chocolate (very powdery consistency), lychee&jasmine tea sheath

finale: some of the ingredients

the final product.
chocolate & vanilla nitrous-frozen custard with milk chocolate sauce, honeyed organic milk sauce, pickled blueberries, blueberry chips, honey custard brulee (which transforms from liquid to solid before your eyes during the process) and peanut nougat

Sous chef Matt Chaseur come sauntering out and in a very pleasant but no-nonesense fashion begins painting this delicious masterpiece. Part alchemy and part chemistry it is fascinating to watch...couldn't help but sneak a peak at the artist's footwear-black leather & wooden clogs.

Hot Dog! Hot Doug!

2011-03-17T21:49:00.007-04:00

Let's play a guessing game.

Which hot dogs are pictured here (all are from the list below)

Hot Doug's, Chicago
This mecca of encased meat is located in a barren area close to Wrigleville. It's a bit of a trek but I assure you well worth it. This is a place people willingly and happily wait in line-ups that can stretch up to 3 hours long. We waited 15-20 minutes at 3:30pm on a Saturday afternoon (Hot Doug's closes at 4pm). There are many doors, which must be kept closed, things are orderly and delicious. Doug, a warm and welcoming fellow, is at the counter taking orders and directing traffic. I let my eyes and stomach do the ordering which in hindsight was probably a mistake (note to self: two hot dogs and two large fries is too much) I was also really excited about the cherry cola fountain pop.

What We Ate:
duck fat fries, lg cheese fries, 2x sml fountain pop, smoked shrimp and pork sausage, foie gras & sauternes duck sausage, spinach & mozzarella chicken sausage ($30).

An Open Letter To The NHL

2011-03-10T00:12:00.005-05:00

Dear Comissioner Bettman and Mr Campbell;

Today you have offended me and every other hockey fan. Your support of the actions of Boston Bruins Captain Zdeno Chara on the evening of Tuesday, March 8th 2011 against Montreal Canadiens forward Max Pacioretty is nothing short of disgusting. You have irreparably damaged your own credibility as well as that of the NHL and its supposed desire to protect the health and safety of its' players.

Chara's hit on Pacioretty during the second period of a heated game resulted in a broken vertebra and a severe concussion to the Canadiens player, who lay motionless on the ice for a good 5 minutes before being carried off the Bell Centre ice on a stretcher. Who knows how long Pacioretty will be out or even if he will be able to play professional hockey again. Chara was given a game misconduct for the hit but not supplementary discipline.

Let's look at the facts:
Zdeno Chara: 33 years of age, 6'9", 255lbs
Max Pacioretty: 22 years of age, 6'2", 212 lbs

Chara has a good 7 inches and some 40 plus pounds on Pacioretty-that's a lot of velocity and weight rubbing you into the boards and then shoving you into the glass. To make matters worse Chara took the bare minimum of responsibility for the clearly dirty hit and even went as far as to claim that Pacioretty "jumped into" the glass stanchion at the end of the bench, watch the replay and you will find this claim to be utter nonsense. One should expect a lot more from a Captain whose own teammate just last season suffered a devastating blow to the head which may or may not have ended his career.

By declining to suspend or fine Chara Mr. Campbell and by extension Comissioner Bettman and the NHL are condoning hits of this nature. So, listen up NHL goons if you want to "take a player's head off" or "make someone pay" just ride them into the bench and then give them an extra little shove as they come close to the glass stanchion at the end of the player's bench et voila, maximum injury with a minimum of repercussions.

Now, let us play the what if game. What if this hit had not been given by Zdeno Chara, star and captain of the Boston Bruins and instead was instigated by a team's forth line brawler? What if this hit had not been on Max Pacioretty, pretty much a no-name NHLer (at least outside of Montreal) and instead on one of the NHL's "superstars"? Would there have been supplementary discipline? My money is on hell yes. By not suspending and/or fining Chara the NHL is setting up a nasty situation in Boston on Thursday, March 24th 2011, the final regular season game between these two teams.

In a year when concussions and hits to the head are in the spotlight one would think that the NHL, by way of Mr. Campbell, would take a zero tolerance policy to hits that resulted in injuries of this sort, no matter the aggressor or the victim. Not so it seems.

Shame on you Colin Campbell and Shame on you NHL.

Disrespectfully,
a disheartened fan

Last Catwalk in Paris

2011-03-09T00:32:00.002-05:00

YSL

Stella McCartney

Chloe

Alexander McQueen

Chanel

Red Carpet Moment by Versace

2011-03-07T00:46:00.001-05:00

Oh Hey There

2011-03-07T00:31:00.004-05:00

Prada

Dries Van Noten

Isabel Marant

Lanvin

Tsumori Chisato

Haider Ackermann

Givenchy

Celine

MARNI!

2011-03-03T00:31:00.000-05:00

by the sartorialist

A mix of NYC and London Fall 2011

2011-02-22T21:11:00.002-05:00

I've been away drinking wine in the county so I haven't had much time to catch up on my shows but here's what I like so far:

marc jacobs

Jason Wu

3.1 phillip lim

Proenza Schouler

Burberry Prorsum

Christopher Kane

Not Yet Spring but Already Fall 2011

2011-02-15T23:18:00.003-05:00

Altuzarra

Alexander Wang

Doo.Ri

Monique Lhuillier

Rodarte

2011 Golden Globes Best Dressed

2011-01-17T14:02:00.003-05:00

Elisabeth Moss in Donna Karen

There was a lot of nude going on at the Golden Globes last night. Though the colour palette was much of the same (flesh-tones, pale or bright pinks, green & black) and a love for sequins heavily evident the biggest story was a return to elegant, glamorous dressing. Shout out to Angelina Jolie (in sequined green Atelier Versace), Anne Hathaway (in sequined nude Armani), Julianne Moore (in bright pink, one-shoulder Lanvin) and Sofia Vergara's golden globes but my favourites are the ones pictured here.

Kyra Sedgwick in Emilio Pucci, accessories love

Claire Danes in Calvin Klein Collection

Kidman in sequined Prada

Dianna Agron in J.Mendel, doing flesh-tone right

Miscues of the evening: Olivia Wilde's hair (dress by marchesa was gorgeous) and shoes (you paired THAT dress with sparkly, gold louboutin booties?!), Michelle Williams' dress (60s flower child by Valentino), Halle Berry (in nina ricci) looking tacky instead of sexy and Emma Stone (the Calvin Klein Collection dress was stunning and so was the oompa-loompa glow of Stone's skin).

photos courtesy of fashionologie.com and style.com

Making Movies!

2010-12-21T01:16:00.001-05:00

Things I have learned from working in the service industry

2010-12-16T01:29:00.004-05:00

1. Never try to make a reservation at 7/730, especially not on a friday or saturday
1.a) If you are making a reservation and you say your time is "flexible" then actually be flexible with your timing. A request for a reservation between "7 or 8" is NOT flexible. That's prime time at a restaurant and most likely SMACK DAB in the middle of the two seating times.

2. Be nice if you try to make a same-day reservation (same goes for 1 day in advance) and if doing so, don't expect that it will be easy to get a reservation, especially at your desired time.

3. Most restaurants have a table turn-around time. They try to fit in at least two seatings (if not three) at every table in the restaurant a night. If you have a 6 or 630 reservation and take 2.5 hours to finish a starter and main because you are lingering over your meal and conversation (and not due to slow service or food delivery) you're pretty damn rude, especially at a really really busy restaurant. Seriously, the restaurant doesn't want to kick you out, they want you to enjoy yourself but chances are they have that table booked for another seating and if no other table is freeing up chances are they are as politely as possible going to ask you to hurry it up so that they can seat their other guests. Please don't act surprised and offended. Restaurants don't normally tell guests at what time they have to be finished their meal unless the turn-around time is tight-TWO AND A HALF HOURS FOR TWO PEOPLE TO EAT DINNER IS MORE THAN ENOUGH TIME! If you wanted a 3-4 hour seating you should go to a restaurant that isn't busy, book for a late seating (ie. 9pm or later) or drink a lot of alcohol.

4. Calling and leaving a message for a time and date DOES NOT equal a reservation. It's a reservation request.

5. FYI: As crazy as it sounds (and as a diner i think it's pretty insane) 15%-20% is actually industry standard these days. If you think that you are leaving a CRAZY AMAZING tip, 20% isn't it.

5. When you are actually being gracious, accommodating, understanding and generous we notice and we appreciate it!

Javier Bardem: Acting

2010-12-08T14:45:00.001-05:00

Great Lengths

2010-11-18T19:43:00.003-05:00

I have always wanted beautiful, long eyelashes. Mine are very short, straight and barely noticeable. I curl my eyelashes and buy length "defying" and "volumizing" mascara with varying degrees of success. Today I had extensions applied to my eyelashes. The process didn't hurt (though having one's bottom lashes taped down so as to prevent them sticking to the extensions and effectively gluing one's eyes shut is a tiny bit uncomfortable) at all and took about 70 minutes for a full application. The extensions are glued on individually to your existing eyelashes. I find they definitely open up my eyes and made them look bigger and more noticeable without overpowering my face. They aren't uncomfortable like fake lashes and best of all after the initial 24 hour wait period I can work out, swim and do hot yoga with them in without fear of them falling out or clumping. Initial full application cost $60 and fills (done every 3-4 weeks cost between $15-$20).

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T17:28:00.004-04:00

my costume this year: srs bb dino

Why I Love the Hawks: A Tale of Two Teams

2010-10-20T19:29:00.007-04:00

For a year now I have been harassed and berated for my affection towards the Chicago Blackhawks. It is the burden I must endure due to the relatively new rivalry between this team and my first love, the Vancouver Canucks. In order to fully lay out the reasons why I admire the hawks and see no, real issue with doing so, I must first explain that picking favourites for me involves a combination of positive feelings towards current players, respect for coaches and management and an understanding of team history. The Blackhawks are an exciting hockey club and an original six team; they are great for the NHL and very fun to watch on the ice. The Bowman Eventuality
During one of the Canucks vs. Blackhawks playoff games in 2008-2009 the camera panned up to the Blackhawks box and who should I see sitting there but Scotty Bowman. Bowman's son, Stan, would eventually become Chicago's GM but at the time was not, nor was Bowman in any official capacity aiding the Blackhawks. A short while later, after the Blackhawks had been ousted by their rivals the Detroit Red Wings, Bowman's former team, Scotty accepted a position as Sr Advisor of Hockey Operations with the Blackhawks. This detail is significant because my entire hockey loving life I have revered Scotty Bowman. Any team he is affiliated with I automatically adore, simply for their proximity to what I view as greatness. The Toews Factor
My appreciation for the Blackhawks, like their rivalry with the Canucks, is young. It began one late June day in 2006 when then Blackhawks GM Dale Tallon selected Jonathan Toews as the 3rd pick of the NHL entry draft. Toews, had caught my eye during the 2006 U-20 World Junior Championships as Team Canada's youngest player. Toews did not enter the NHL the year after his selection in the entry draft and my next encounter with him was at the 2007 World Junior Championships where he earned the hearts of all Canadians as well as myself for his three shootout goals to help Canada defeat the USA in the semi-finals. His stellar play at this tournament earned him a spot on the all-star team and Canada the gold. I don't need to continue to list Toews' accomplishments (they include a 2007 World Championship Gold Medal, a 2010 Olympic Gold Medal-as well as being named as Best Forward for the tournament, a 2010 Conn Smythe Trophy and 2010 Stanley Cup), nor do I need to wax lyrical about his work ethic and humble demeanor. Suffice to say that he is an amazing player and that he shares the honour of my favourite current NHLer.

Aside from Toews the Blackhawks roster boasts an impressive list of players whose on-ice play and off-ice persona are worth considerable respect and admiration; Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook are one of the most formidable defensive pairings in the NHL. Patrick Sharp is a versatile player with a sense of humor. Brian Campbell, is an excellent, smooth-skating, play-making veteran NHL defenceman. Then there is Patrick Kane, love him or hate him you have to admit his ability to dangle and create something with the puck is mesmerizing. No one knows this better than the Vancouver Canucks and their supporters. To hate this kind of talent is to exhibit pure bitterness and jealousy.

Rivalry, what rivalry?
Bitterness, jealousy and being a jerk come naturally to most Canuck fans. People who claim that liking both the Blackhawks and the Canucks is utter lunacy confuse me. I mean, it's not like I'm claiming to be a Flames and a Canucks fan, or a Red Wing and a Blackhawks fan. I fully admit that if Jonathan Toews left the Blackhawks I would have to think long and hard about continuing to support the team. When did the Blackhawks becomes such a bitter rival to the Canucks anyways? The two teams are not historical rivals. During the '81-'82 season the Blackhawks lost to the Canucks in the Conference Final, 1–4 but the teams didn't meet up again in the post season until '94-'95 in the Conference Semi-Finals (won by the hawks) this was followed by another lengthy hiatus of well over a decade as it would not be until the 2008-2009 season that these two teams would meet again in the post season. By comparison the Blackhawks faced the now defunct Minnesota North Stars six times and the St Louis Blues eight times over the same period of time (less in the case of the North Stars who were moved to Dallas in 1993). The Cancuks faced the Calgary Flames six times and the LA Kings four times.

So I ask again, where did this rivalry begin? It certainly wasn't during the 2006-2007 season, the year after the Blackhawks drafted Jonathan Toews (and the year my attachment to the team began to bud). It wasn't during 2007-2008 the year Toews and Patrick Kane joined the team, the Blackhawks didn't even make the playoffs that year. I contend that this rivalry really started at the conclusion of the 2008-2009 season during the playoffs (1st picture above) when the heavily favoured Canucks met the young, upstart Blackhawks in Western Conference semi-final. This was a hard fought series, one that saw the Canucks implode during the sixth game of the series and blow three leads, including two third period leads. The Canucks defense crumbled and as a fan this was a tough, crushing loss.

The rivalry was pushed further during the 2009-2010 season when Canucks assistant captain Ryan Kesler called then Blackhawks forward Andrew Ladd a coward. The teams met again in the Conference semi-finals with the same results, only this time the loss wasn't as tough or as crushing. If you are an actual hockey fan you have to admit that that series was an utter disappointment and never for an entire game did either team play to their potential at the same time. I couldn't hate the Blackhawks after yet another defeat at their hands in the 2nd round; I was too busy hating Andrew Albert and Kevin Bieksa, wondering what had happened to Daniel Sedin and Ryan Kesler and daydreaming about what might have been had the Canucks managed to keep their composure and their defense healthy.

Enlightenment
I hid my feelings for the Blackhawks, keeping them safely stored behind an outward and very vocal loathing of Dustin Byfuglien. It wasn't until the 2010 Vancouver Olympics that my fondness for Toews and also Keith and Seabrook came spilling out. I could no longer contain it. I worried about the repercussions and the idea that after such vocal declarations I would no longer be able to keep secret my admiration of the team Toews captained. Then it dawned on me, liking the Blackhawks doesn't make me a bad Canucks fan, it makes me a better hockey fan. No hawks player had ever offended me or my fandom sensibilities. The hawks only crime was simply being a better team, playing a better game and winning when the Canucks could not. If anything I view this as a challenge to the Canucks to step up their game, to play solid defense, to never give up and to beat the Blackhawks every chance they get.

Good Eats

2010-10-12T15:22:00.002-04:00

I made thanksgiving dinner last night for 11 friends. Two roast chickens (with stuffing-one with bacon and one without), mac n cheese, leeky-potatoes, maple-glazed carrots, brussel sprout slaw, 3 different kinds of stuffing, two different kinds of pumpkin pie (maple and caramel) and caramelized bourbon pears with frangipane topping. My cousin made tagine, a friend brought pureed sweet yams and my roommate made an appetizer of ricotta with figs and honey. All in all a total success!

Want for Winter

2010-10-06T14:17:00.003-04:00

Uniqlo + J F/W 2010

for more Uniqlo + J F/W 2010 coats

Hits from Paris Spring 2011 RTW - Updated

2010-10-02T16:35:00.007-04:00

Celine
Miu Miu

Louis Vuitton

Chanel

Alexander McQueen

Hakaan

Zac posen

Balenciaga

Rick Owens

Nina Ricci

Gareth Pugh

Dries van noten

Dior

Isabel Marant

Lanvin

all pic from style.com and fashionologie

Rare Gaga

2010-09-13T16:04:00.001-04:00

Protect Your Head

2010-09-12T14:19:00.010-04:00

I've been looking for a helmet for a while.
Riding helmets are always so expensive and bike helmets are ugly.
I saw this at a yard sale for $4 AND IT FIT!

Red Velvet Love

2010-09-07T15:57:00.002-04:00

Ladd, Lord Stanley and BC

2010-07-21T10:41:00.004-04:00

These photos are beautiful. Andrew Ladd, you will be missed in Chicago!

photos via Real_ESPNLeBrun

Club Monaco Winter 2010 Preview: The Men's Onsie

2010-07-16T13:24:00.002-04:00

I don't know one straight man who would wear this outfit. Ok, maybe one but it would only be for lols. I know plenty of girls who would wear this though...

How futbol is a lot like ballet

2010-07-14T20:59:00.005-04:00

lols first, artistry 2nd...

Hello

2010-07-03T16:57:00.001-04:00

The Dolce & Gabbana boys as seen by Tommy Ton.

I love You Phoebe Philo

2010-06-15T22:22:00.003-04:00

The Celine 2011 Resort collection

The Aftermath

2010-06-10T18:49:00.010-04:00

In case you hadn't heard the Chicago Blackhawks are your 2010 Stanley Cup Champions and because I like hockey and photography and have a crush on this team I went through the AP photo gallery. Here's a look at the celebration with some of my favourite photos from the aftermath. I like watching hockey live but I love looking at sheer emotion (for the most part joy-except in the case of one photo) captured in a single moment.

So, I'll start us off with the photo above. Patrick Kane, love him or hate him, just scored the game winning goal in sudden death overtime to win his team the Stanley Cup...pretty much the happiest feeling ever...

...followed by pretty much the worst.

Bettman: Johnny Toews is the dreamiest guy in school
Toews: Hey, where's the Stanley Cup?!

"Woohoo!!!"

Respect.

2010 Stanley Cup Winners

2010-06-10T15:35:00.002-04:00

This isn't going to help quash those gay rumours but who cares, they're just expressing the team bromance that comes with winning a Stanley Cup. Congrats Blackhawks and Flyers on an exciting series and Game 6. Party in Chicago-all summer long!

2010 CFDA Awards

2010-06-09T14:02:00.002-04:00

Backstage @ the CFDA Awards

TGIF

2010-06-04T15:55:00.004-04:00

I'm going to follow this cub's lead and have a restful and relaxing weekend starting with the thorough enjoyment of Game 4 tonight!

The story behind this baby lion?

Mobbed

2010-05-31T16:07:00.003-04:00

Joanthan Toews (he's somewhere in there) is made available to the media on Sunday (on off-day) May 30th, 2010. (notice how they've taped off the area that the chief's head and Hawks emblem is in the dressing room-guess players don't want to be using up all their energy to yell at reporters and crew to step off).

Source plus pretty "awww"-inducing picture of Huet's son, Ewan, scoring on dad.

Why you should watch the 2010 Stanley Cup Finals

2010-05-28T17:39:00.005-04:00

So, your team didn't make it into the Stanley Cup Finals. Maybe, a team you hate did and so you've lost any interest you would have had in watching to see who will win Lord Stanley's Cup. If you consider yourself a hockey fan then you should be ashamed. This year's contest promises to be a doozy with storylines galore and two teams that boast solid defense corps, high-powered offensive lines, plenty of superstars who aren't named Crosby or Ovechkin and rabble-rousing fanbases (trust me I was in Chicago for Game 4 of the conference finals and if the Hawks win the cup that town might just explode from cheer joy). So, I present to you 6 reasons why you should watch the 2010 Stanley Cup Finals:

1. Jonathan Toews vs Mike Richards: Two of the best all-around centres in the league going head to head...well maybe not very often but these two young captains, both members of Canada's gold medal winning men's Olympic 2010 hockey team (they even played on a line together-as evidenced by the photo above) are both exciting players who aren't afraid to go to the dirty places to make plays. Both have been playing exceptionally well this post season and it's going to be fun watching one of these youthful leaders steer their team to victory.

2. The Flyers haven't won a Cup since 1975. The Hawks haven't won a Cup since 1961. Someone's drought ends this June.

3. The Hossa Curse.

4. The very high probability to see goals like these:

5. A great match-up. The Flyers may not be an Original 6 team but this is still a storied franchise. The Blackhawks, well, what can one say about the team that has "the best looking jersey in professional sports" that hasn't been said before. Both teams are passionate, deep and filled with players that you love, hate or love-to-hate. Fans can expect a hard fought series with plenty of heroics, turning points and, of course, chirping. While everyone is wondering about the Pronger/Byfuglien meeting infront of the net I'm more interested in what Toews and Kane will do once Philly's big, 30-minute-a-game-man is otherwise occupied. Will one young team loose its cool? Can detested players such as Hossa or Carcillo overcome their bad reputations to win it all? Will Jeff Carter brake one or both of his feet, again? Which team will rise to the challenge to lift the best trophy in pro sports?

6. Both teams are located in strong hockey markets that happen also to be populous US cities. The NHL will be happy with the ratings and interest it creates south of the 49th parallel while Canadians can take solace in the fact that these two teams combined are made up of 34 Canadian players, 17 for each team. Just knowing that The Cup will be spending a lot of time in it's rightful country this summer, no matter who wins, should be enough for those of us North of the border to stop being bitter about the lack of a "Canadian" team-just pick a Canadian player and root for him. It's a win-win for both fans and the league.

my prediction: well you know what I think... but it bares repeating, hawks in six.

Hawks Western Conference Finals 2010 Game #4 - Post Game

2010-05-25T20:48:00.004-04:00

For as much as I admire him as a hockey player the guy wearing the C, the centreman who wears #19 (just like Yzerman and Sakic) gives press conferences that leave no doubt as to why his nickname is 'Captain Serious.' Below is Toews' cliche-filled Western Conference Final 2010 Game #4 post-game. After what is a fairly humorous start in rolls the endless parade of sports cliches. In this press conference the 22 year old probably uses every major sports cliche that exists (playing 60 minutes, doing the little things, finding ways to win, character, etc.). Above is Patrick Sharp's post-game interview. You can see why Sharp is known as the prankster and locker-room clown. This interview contains the perfect amount of humor, personality, clichés and bare-bones information/critique-I wish all press conferences were this fun. Leadership, two ways. Well, three ways if you count that other guy who wears a letter for the Hawks and took a puck to the face, lost 7 teeth, numbed is mouth & stayed in the game.

btw I was at this game...video to come

L2O

2010-05-25T19:05:00.023-04:00

L2O restaurant, Chicago
Located in the ornate, regal and conservative Belden Stratford on Lincoln Park West is an oasis of modernity, simplicity and sophistication. Chef Laurent Gras' restaurant L2O is a must-stop for anyone who loves food (especially seafood) and who appreciates culinary innovation. Everything is streamlined yet elaborate, take for example the concocting of my strawberry-basil caipirinha-a cart was wheeled out, on it a silver tray with three beautiful glass beakers, a tall, slender mixing vassel, small silver orbs holding fresh strawberries and basil leaves mixed together with friendly efficiency by our attentive but never over-bearing host. Our server, Keira, went out of her way to be helpful even handwriting a descriptive menu (along with a copy of the full menu, which is written using the most sparing of language), gave a detailed description of the dessert menu and answered all of our questions with friendly professionalism. Chef Gras sources many of his ingredients from Japan, so, although he tries mostly to use seasonal ingredients he is, obviously, not a locavore. It doesn't matter, I would dine here again in a heartbeat.

What we ate:
(spring seasonal tasting menu 12 courses +2 amuse bouche and 2 sweet treats $165/person)
- medai (japanese butterfish), ume, sudachi, fried garlic (np)
continued below...

- tuna tartar, cucmber ball, dehydrated corn, salsa verde in a gelatinous corn shell
- silken tofu, ginger, white miso sauce (np)

- fluke wrapped in cucumber, green dressing, tapioca, daikon & carrot roll

- peeky-toe crab, foie gras emulsion (np)
- halibut, english peas, ramps, arugula dumping (with sundried tomato), fiddleheads in bacon butter

- salted cod, whipped fingerling potato, smoked ribbon and caviar

- shabu-shabu: hiramasa (australian-caught hamachi), mushroom, shiso, konbu boullion, seasme, fresh-grated wasabi with miso-soy sauce (the leftover bouillon from this dish is then served with noodles in the 4 course tasting menu)

- king salmon, baked in clay, dusted with cinnamon and North African spices, grits, lemon gelé dusted with dehydrated meyer lemon crumbs, caramelized date-injected daikon

- beef short rib baked and then seared, grilled ramps, spring onion, pinot blanc vinaigrette, ginger-beef consommé

- chocolate ganache, soysalt, olive oil (np-and also the 3rd dessert we had on this trip that featured olive oil)
- Raspberries with raspberry gelé pellets, yuzu, 14K gold leaf, mascarpone, crispy white chocolate tulle

- whipped kafir sorbet with pineapple and coconut (LN2 treatment)
- Grand Marnier souffle w orange marmalade & peanut butter souffle (np)

- extras: passionfruit marshmallow and strawberry & cream macaron

Deep Dish Pizza

2010-05-25T18:22:00.002-04:00

Deep Dish Pizza, Giordano's Chicago
So, I did not set out on a quest to find the best deep dish pizza in all of Chicago. Truth be told I prefer thin crust, Italian style pizza but what do you do after a hot dog lunch and a few beers at the Hawks game (game 4 vs the sharks) when your stomach starts growling? If you're me you figure you should continue your day of eating terrible yet delicious treats and indulge in the oozing and gooey mess that is a North American institution and what better place than the city of it's birth. We didn't go to some out of the way mom n pop shop where everything is lovingly handmade, locally sourced and exorbitantly priced, no, we went for the over-the-top, value loving wreck that is the famous Giordano's stuffed pizza. It's basically deep dish pizza with a tomato sauce covered dough hat. If you like deep dish pizza, you'll probably like this. I found that the dough, though crisp, tasted bland and undercooked and, as a cheese enthusiast I can't believe I'm saying this, there was too much processed cheese to the point that it tasted a bit like plastic. Basically, all the things that in my experience I've come to expect from deep dish pizza.

What we ate:

- small (and I use this term loosely) stuffed pizza with sausage, green pepper, mushrooms, onions & mozzarella
- large house salad

Charlie Trotters

2010-05-25T17:44:00.009-04:00

Charlie Trotter's, Chicago
Wildly and frequently praised as one of the best restaurants in the world Charlie Trotter's in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighbourhood is located in an inconspicuous yet large house. We had a 9:30 reservation on our first night in the city and although the food was good our server left a less than desirable taste in the mouth. Kind of like that one dessert (pretty to look at, terrible taste, can you guess which one I'm talking about-it's pictured here). Bad service can ruin a decent meal and when you're sitting at a world renowned table for a 3 hour, 8 course $165/person ($135 for the veggie) menu you come to expect a certain amount of professionalism, courtesy and knowledge. The rest of the service staff seemed very pleasant and accommodating, ours must just have been having a bad day. Too bad, because I won't go back and I don't suggest you do either. There are too many wonderful restaurants in this city.

What we ate (one of us had the meat and the other the vegetarian menu):
- marinated zucchini w fennel pollen & ricotta (not pictured)
- razor clams w fava bean & green almond (np)
- soft shell crab tempura w green papaya & lemon verbena (np)
- white asparagus w miner's lettuce & blackberries
- j. eggplant soufflé w curry & green peppercorn (above)
continued below...

- steamed tasmanian ocean trout w green tea & coriander dusted garbanzo beans
- poached squab breast w black sesame, annatto & radish (np)
- Oaxacan mole w spinach & roasted cashews (np)
- whole roasted porcini w rosemary & caramelized cippolini onions (np)
continued below...

- salt-crusted veal loin w toasted brioche, morel, burnt oak & creme fraiche

- lavender custard w honeycomb & black tea

- meyer lemon sorbet w lemon basil & creamed olive oil (bottom)
- muscat grape sorbet w caray (above)

- meiwa kumquats w frozen meringue & cured black olives
- condensed cinnamon milk ice cream w lime & pequin peppers (np)
-milk chocolate-praline semifreddo w pistachios & mint (np)

The Purple Pig, Chicago

2010-05-25T17:19:00.003-04:00

The Purple Pig-Chicago
This was a delicious pork filled meal. This casual European-style bistro is very popular so be prepared to wait (about 20 minutes during the lunch rush). The dishes are priced reasonably ($5-$18) and easy to share. I definitely recommend stopping by for a pre or post mag mile meal.

What we ate:
- arancini with ricotta, mint and spring peas
- Serrano ham
- crispy strips of pig's ear with a fried egg and deep fried seaweed
- milk braised pork shoulder with mashed potatoes

Why I Love the Bowtie

2010-05-17T20:15:00.002-04:00

Oh my god, look, a post that's not about hockey and the Stanley Cup playoffs! It's been rare these days, I know. I love Lanvin and I adore Alber Elbaz, Lanvin's bowtie wearing creative director and head designer. In a recent interview he gave as part of Style.com's Future of Fashion series he said the follow in regards to celebrity fashion lines:

I feel that some celebrities think that because they are famous, they can do fashion. Imagine if I want to be now a dancer. Trust me, I can’t. I can’t jump. I can’t even limp from one point to another. I feel that there is this kind of confusion.

I totally agree.

Conference Finals

2010-05-16T14:09:00.003-04:00

and then there were four.

The East
Philadelphia v Montreal: Who would have guessed that the number 7 and 8 seeds would be in a showdown to represent the East? Both of these teams had to go through grueling 7 game series in the 2nd round to get to this point, but the Habs also had a lengthy 7 game series in the first round. I've bet against them every time (figuratively, not physically) and they won each time. Traditionally I cheer for the Habs and cannot really stand the Flyers. However, I have been really impressed by the play of Jeff Carter this season and though he is injured and out have to admit that I am impressed with the way this club stepped up after going down 3-0 to Boston (getting Gange back into the lineup was quite the shot in the arm). The Habs, well, despite playing disciplined, defence first hockey and potentially getting Markov back into the lineup, I'm a bit worried. Most of their offence has pretty much come from one guy and they've won most of their games on the one-two-three punch of defence, Halak & Cammalleri...and after two straight 7 game series, how long can this keep going? I'm not sure who I want to win this one, because if the Habs go to the finals their already insufferable fans are just going to make me angrier and more dissappointed in les Quebcois and if the Flyers win, well, just two words: Dan Carcillo, I mean, really, who wants to see that guy succeed? However, I've picked against them twice and both times they've shown their will to win, so, I'll go with the Habs in 7.

The West
San Jose v Chicago: Here, on the polar opposite side, are the number 1 & 2 seeds in the Western conference. If you have read my other posts you know I've picked Chicago to go all the way, so, no sense in stopping now. I hope that this series can bring the edge-of-your-seat excitement I was expecting from the Hawks v Nucks series. Thorton, Marleau and Heatley have played well, especially in the last two games of the Detroit series but really it's been the Sharks secod line of Pavelski, Clowe and Setoguchi that have powered SJ to their first Conference Final since 2003-2004. Dan Boyle has been great but I feel like Rob Blake, though still playing big minutes, is a bit of a geriatric and who are the other SJ defensive pairings again? On the flip side there's Kane and Toews who have combined for 35 points (20 for Toews who has been dominant against the Sharks and 15 for Mr Mullet) in 12 games. The NHL 2010 bromance of the year, Keith and Seabrook, did a great job shutting down the Sedins and I look for them to frustrate the hell out of the Sharks big three. We'll see if Hjarlmarsson and Campbell can be equally successful against SJ's second line. I can see the Sharks winning but really, Hawks in 6.

Disgruntled Sports Musings

2010-05-11T15:33:00.006-04:00

Things I don't like that I've noticed during the 2nd round of the NHL playoffs:
1. That Habs fans feel the need to boo the opposing side's best players. Happened to Ovechkin in the first round and now it's happening to Sidney Crosby and (to a lesser degree) Evgeni Malkin. I'm all for chirping opposing players but every time Crosby or Ovechkin touched the puck in le centre bell it was accompanied by a large chorus of boos. What makes this booing so pathetic is that it's happening not because Crosby has been a particular thorn in the Habs side (because he really hasn't) or because he hassled them to the press (god forbid) or because he made a dirty hit that took one of the Habs players out but just because he's Sidney Crosby. What's even worse is that one can be sure that every single one of those booing assholes were cheering and weeping like little girls when Crosby scored that OT goal on February 28th, 2010 in Vancouver. Lame sauce.

2. You know what else is lame sauce, the fact that Habs fans sing that Olé Olé Olé song at all points in a game. We hear it when: the Habs are down but just scored a goal, when the game is tied and then if the Habs are winning. The ONLY appropriate time to hear that song is when a team is running away with the lead or at the end of a match when your team is winning.

3. NHL conspiracy theories. Detroit lost because they were outplayed and out of gas. They took stupid penalties and although there were plenty of phantom and missed calls every team is a victim of these things. Trust me, I'm a Vancouver fan, we love to make up bullshit conspiracy theories as an excuse for our team's poor play.

4. Inconsistent officiating. Referees are human and so, much to the chagrin of fans everywhere, they make mistakes. What I don't understand is when you call a penalty, say slashing (especially the much-used slashing the hands), and then 10 minutes later it happens, in front of you and you don't call it. Or, when a blatant infraction happens 3 feet away from the referee but because they missed a call on the opposing team earlier in the game it goes uncalled. Also, when a play is an infraction for a notorious player, like Burrows or Byfuglien, but not for players of good reputation, like Toews or Bergeron.

5. Towel Power in cities other than Vancouver. Find another way to get your fans engaged and Get off our jock. (note: If your city participates in this but the towels aren't white then I guess you're off the hook).

6. That the Chicago Blackhawks arrived in Vancouver for Game 6 with their bags already packed for San Jose. Hawks fans will call it practical planning and to be sure it is but for a team that claims not to be looking ahead and to be taking things one-game-at-a-time as Captain Jonathan Toews has asserted many times in this and the Nashville series this move reeks of arrogance. This makes the possibility of extending the series to it's maximum all the more sweet for the Canucks and their fans.

7. Press scrums with players. Conferences with NHL coaches can usually produce some smirk-inducing quotes and occasional glimmers of insight but interviews with players are about as mundane and cliché-filled as they come. That's maybe why I like Cabbie on the Street-his interviews are usually a little more revealing and the players seem a lot more relaxed and willing to show some personality.

photo via emptynetters.

Clean and Clear

2010-05-05T16:34:00.002-04:00

Stylehog.com's Best Cleansers

The Ball of Boring

2010-05-04T12:41:00.008-04:00

Gisele (in Alexander Wang) & Tom are here simply because they're so hot

MIA in Alexander Wang (for the GAP but really this isn't going to be in any GAP stores)

The Met Gala was last night and for a crowd that was filled with fashion's biggest names (and many of Hollywood's as well) the outfits were Yawn-inducing. Sure, there were plenty of very pretty red carpet worthy picks but they all seemed tired and done before. Anne Hathaway in a glittery, nude ballgown that I could have sworn I'd seen her in 100 times before, Gwen Stefani in a gauzy white backless column dress with black bustier peeking through that was feminine but with the right amount of rocker "edgy" and Melissa George in a ruffled mustard dress that hinted at the glamour Diane Kruger and Michelle Williams displayed in dresses of that same hue at the Golden Globes this year and Oscars years ago. Even perennial favourtes failed to inspire Kruger, with her freshly signed Calvin Klein contract, was in a conservative, body-hugging all-white Costa creation and Marion Cotillard in bejeweled, old-Hollywood Dior both brought their regular brand of sophisticated fashion but no risks were taken and thus no rewards to be had.

If there were ever a time to go out on a limb and wear something that might never be able to be worn out in public on any other occasion save for potentially losing one's mind (but in a good way) this is it! Where was the texture, the trends, the interest?! Gisele had all this but I wasn't crazy about the look still (but she and Tom are at the top simply because I love them so much). Some wore couture but not enough...or maybe it's just that couture wasn't as outlandish this year? Some took it to the extreme-I'm looking at you Rosario Dawson and Maggie Gyllenhaal, who looked like a massacre in purple ruffle gone wrong and a black tie-dyed denim trash bag respectively. Many tried too hard: Kristen Stewart looking monstrous and upset in what I think was Chanel, Blake Lively's skin looking like an oompa-loompa, January Jones-there are no words and Emmy Rossum's desperate look-at-me eyes but most just seemed like they weren't trying at all. It was like the majority of the crowd got dressed on automatic while in the dark and the results were boring. boring. BORING.

So, here's who didn't bore me to near tears or make me want to scratch my eyes out:

Tom Ford in what I can only assume is Tom Ford (love the blush dinner jacket)

Jamie Bochert in Rodarte (scary looking face-lovely dress)

Hilary Rhoda in Prabal Gurung

Amber Valleta in RM by Roland Mouret (conservative choice but it's so lovely I forgive the lack of interest)

Karolina Kurkova in Altuzarra

Naomi Watts in Lanvin

Coco Rocha in Zac Posen

Chloe Sevigny in Proenza Schouler

Thanks Fashionology for the pics

Cinderella & Sidney

2010-04-29T12:07:00.010-04:00

After last night's 2-1 victory, the Habs pulled off what everyone thought would be impossible and eliminated many people's Stanley Cup favorite's, Alexander Ovechkin and his Washington Capitals. Next, they take on Ovechkin's rival Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins. Can Halak frustrate Crosby, Malkin, Staal, et al? Crosby and Halak (the Hab's stellar goaltender and biggest reason why they are in this position) are hands down the current Conn Smythe favorites. Round 2 of the NHL playoffs starts tonight in San Jose, so, let's see break it down:

The West:
San Jose v Detroit: Thanks to some bad bounces and some great goaltending from Craig Anderson the Sharks barely got past the upstart Colorado Avalanche. They're in tough with a team that has been red hot since the Olympic break. The Wings had a hard fought series against the Coyotes and as most expected they prevailed. Unfortunately for the Sharks and whoever makes it through to the conference finals the Wings are going to win this one too (in 6 or 7). The Wings might be a little tired and sore from playing a series that took them to the limit -with an average age of 31.8 these men aren't exactly spring chicken's anymore and they've played into June for 2 straight years- but they are just too resilient and have a bounty of experience all of which they can draw on to win. The Sharks, well, they're the Sharks. To even consider getting past Detroit the Sharks need Thorton to show up and Nabokov's going to have to best Howard. On a side note this series will start tonight and then resume on Sunday because the Eagles are playing in SJ.

Chicago v Vancouver: Oh good god. Why did this match-up have to happen in the 2nd round, again?! I wanted this to be the conference final, but I guess better early than never, right? As a person who picked the Hawks to win the cup but who is also a lifelong Canucks fan (yes, we have a bad rep but not all of us are riot-happy douche bags-tyvm) I'm sort of inbetween a rock and a hard place here-it's what I imagine it's like when choosing between one's own children. I'll try to be as objective as possible.
After looking more than a little shaky at times against Nashville the Hawks finally committed to their changed game plan and disposed of their worthy opponents. Neimi had two shutouts in the series. In these games he faced 23 and 33 shots respectively and has a better saver percentage and goals against than Luongo but Lu made the key saves when he needed too and usually in highlight reel fashion (except in game 3) , so, I'm going to say that in goal the teams are even. Mr Mullet, Patrick Kane played very well throughout the series and after a slow start Hossa and Toews picked it up. Campbell's back and Byfuglien will be up front crashing into Luongo. The Hawks took a lot more penalties in this series than they normally do-I expect this trend to continue in Vancouver as there is a lot more animosity between these two teams. I think Game 6 a year ago will be a big motivating factor for the Canucks and especially Luongo. He's starting to get his confidence back and I expect him to be a lot stronger in this series than against LA-same thing for the PK. Seabrook and Keith will be playing against the twins and Samuelsson this will definitely slow the line down but it won't stop them. This means that Kesler, Burrows and Raymond have got to step it up. Steve Bernier and Alex Edler had a great series against LA-they'll need to continue they're fine play. These teams are very evenly matched. The difference right now is really in special teams (Hawks PK is 3rd, Vancouver's is last: Vancouver's PP is tied for 5th, Hawks are 11th) and on defense. The Canucks are really going to start feeling the loss of Willie Mitchell in this series. If the D (I'm looking at you Bieksa-don't even get me started on Alberts or whoever they're planning on throwing in there) doesn't play a tough and above all Smart series the Hawks will make them pay. This matchup should provide some highly entertaining games and, in the end, I see the winner going on to hoist Lord Stanley's Cup.

The East:
Bruins v Flyers: Bruising series, expect a ton of hitting and after-the-whistle scrums. Marc Savard better keep his head up at all times because Matt Cooke is 5'11", 205 lbs while Chris Pronger is 6'6"& 220 lbs and was named by his peers to be the dirtiest player in the NHL. Bruins definitely have the advantage here in goal. Simon Gangne and Jeff Carter will be sorely missed by Philly; Gange's out for at least 2 more weeks and I'll be shocked and awed if Carter is back for this series at all. I want the Flyers to win but it won't be easy and unless they find a way to fill those two giant offensive holes it'll be the Bruins that prevail.

Penguins v Canadiens: As I stated before, this is a contest between the hottest goaltender in the NHL playoffs and the offensive powerhouse that is Sidney Crosby (current points leader and co-owner of this year's Rocket Richard trophy). After their game 1 loss to Ottawa it was obvious that Crosby decided to put his team on his back and almost singlehandedly win the series. Malkin's looking strong and Pascal Dupuis has been playing really well. The Pens will have to show a lot of patience. Aside from solving Jaroslav Halak , a man who stopped Ovechkin, Semin, Backstrom & Green and who consistently faced over 40 shots per game and turned in a 53 save performance to force a Game 7, they'll have stop Mike Cammalleri and face down the pressure of being the overwhelming favorite. Montreal will have confidence and a lot of momentum coming in off the Washington series. I love a good Cinderella story and nothing would please me more than for the Habs to pull off another surprise but Crosby's not Ovechkin-he actually shows up when it counts.

Winter Boots

2010-04-27T22:49:00.001-04:00

It's not even summer yet and I'm already looking at boots for Winter 2010. These are from Nicole Richie's House of Harlow 1960 F/W 2010 collection.

Game 1

2010-04-16T10:32:00.006-04:00

So, yes, the first game does not a playoff series make but with all but one Game 1 out of the way let's take a look at what's going now that it's all begun.

Starting in the East:
Ottawa v. Pittsburgh: The Pens haven't been the same since the return from the Olympic break. Malkin has struggled with injuries this year but he seemed to pick it up in Game 1. The Sens need to play a complete game every game, keep their foot on the gas and leave it all out there every night because I can't shake the feeling that the Pens are about to shift into another gear-playoff gear. Ottawa fans should be wary. However, the switch better go on tonight or the Pens won't be defending their title for long.
Buffalo v. Boston: Otherwise known as 'there will be blood'. Chara is giant. Every time I see him that's the first thing I think. This was a crazy, ugly, hard, gritty game. I give the Sabres the edge because of Miller (though Rask's obviously no slouch) and the reappearance of Vanek along with Ruff's defensive coaching style. If Game 1 was any indication this is going to be a bruising series (I think it's also going 7 games) and the victor might be worse for wear after it's all said and done.

Philadelphia v. New Jersey: I'm going to be honest, out of all the teams in the post-season I've seen the least of these two. The Flyers, despite the question mark in goal, are always dangerous and they've owned the Devils this year but it's the Devils. Brodeur might be getting older and may have lost his Olympic starting job this season but he's still "Martin Brodeur" and the Devils have plenty of offensive weapons with which to frustrate the Flyers...total toss up.
Washington v. Montreal: The Habs are another team that can ill-afford to take their foot off the gas. They played an incredible game last night-a remarkable team effort. Can they do this four times against the Caps? Sure. But they can't stop Ovi, Semin, Backstrom and Green (not to mention the secondary scoring) forever. The Caps have major defensive issues, more than any other team. In the post-season teams need to be well-rounded, they need solid defense to last-the caps rely on their offense and puck possession skills too much and their defensemen like to take too many defensive risks in the hopes of offensive glory. This worked well in the regular season but the playoffs are a different beast. A team that can play stifling, smart defense and has enough offensive weapons to keep pace will beat them. I think they'll get by Montreal (even though the Habs would make an awesome Cinderella story) but I highly doubt they'll be hoisting the Cup. Also, Ovi might be hurt and that cannot be a good thing.

The West:
Colorado v. San Jose: I feel like the Avs are an unknown quantity. They're young, inexperienced, looked spent closing out the season but found life enough to deal the always under-achieving Sharks a Game 1 blow. The Sharks are a one-line wonder (with the addition of a goaltender that has the ability to get hot and steal a few games in Nabokov). It's a hell of a line, but this strategy hasn't worked for them in the past and it won't work now. Neither of these teams is getting past the second round.
Phoenix v. Detroit: Part of me wants to say that the NHL is conspiring to make the Coyotes team this year's Cinderella story but Bryzgalov has been unreal and frustrating (if you aren't a Coyote fan), so, I have to give credit to Phoenix. having said this, they're playing Detroit. Aside from starting a rookie goaltender (but rookie goalies do sometimes end up a Conn Smythe winner, so...) this is a well-oiled, experienced team who is finally healthy and knows how to win. Hell, even if the series were 3-0 in favour of the Coyotes I STILL wouldn't guarantee a series win. I doubt Babcock, Lidstrom, Zetterberg, Datsyuk, et al are even shaken. Expect a much-improved penalty kill and a tightening up on the defensive end as a whole and a series win by the Wings.
Vancouver v. Los Angeles: At 1am I was still a little drunk, eyes closed and falling asleep in bed before OT began-by 1 minute in I was sitting bolt upright staring intently at my computer screen. Quick was tested often and rose to the challenge-he was by far LA's best player. The Canucks played a solid defensive game and aside from a terrible hit (Alberts, you're Out) that put them down a man for 5 minutes and cost them a goal they played a smart game with few mistakes. The Sedins, for the time being, are living up to expectation. Adding the ability to score off the rush to their grinding, cycling game was exactly what the playoff doctor ordered and is obviously a large reason as to why Hank won the Art Ross and is a contender for the Hart. Samuelsson has been a marvelous addition-he had such a hot hand during the second half of the season before getting injured-it's great to see he's in fine form. Edler was the best player on the ice for the 'Nucks (the hit on Doughty was spectacular) and Lu made a key goal-line save in OT. It won't be easy and it won't be a sweep but Vancouver's going to win this. LA is too young right now and they need a little something more up-front, it'll happen for them just not this season.
Chicago v. Nashville: The only Game 1 yet to be played. The Hawks are my pick to win it all this year-despite the Hossa curse. Shea Weber and company are hungry for their first ever post-season series win. The Preds are a defensively solid team but shutting down Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews is one thing, shutting down Marian Hossa and Patrick Sharp as well is something else. Add to this the fact that the Hawks forth line have been the ones scoring the timely goals to finish off the season and the solid puck-controlling (yet, like Vancouver, depleted) defensive corps who with Keith, Hjarmalsson and Byfuglien can jump up into the rush and the Hawks are a formidable foe. This team can adjust faster than any other team in the NHL, in a seven game series this is crucial. Their one weakness is in goal-which is where the Preds one over-riding advantage lies. Still, the Preds are a team with one (injured-but likely to play in Game 1) 30 goal scorer and one 20 goal scorer this season-it's all good to hold the Hawks off the board but to win you have to put a few pucks in the back of the net too. Niemi has had flashes of brilliance coming down the stretch-we'll see if he can make the key saves his team will need.

As for the picture above I have this to ask: It's all good to let games flow and players play but how is something like this (though unintentional) NOT a penalty? It's called high-sticking, it wasn't on a follow-through shot, and it was never so obvious as it is here-I mean Sedin is about 1/2 inch away from loosing his eye. (Not to mention the non-call on Lidstrom getting clipped in the lip in the Det v. Phoe game).

Covet by Jessica Biffi

2010-04-15T18:48:00.003-04:00

The Wild West

2010-04-11T00:53:00.007-04:00

Well, it looks like the Canucks are destined to get the ultimate 1st round challenge in the Detroit Red Wings. If they get past this opponent the chances of going past the second round are excellent but first things first...

edit: It looks like I spoke too soon. Phoenix gets the Wings and it'll be Canucks v Kings (a matchup that ESPN has decided will be the upset in the West).

Chain Smoking

2010-04-09T11:05:00.002-04:00

We all know that smoking kills, but this mantra doesn't apply to robots (obviously).
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention's smoking robot has twenty Teflon mouths puffing two packs and hour to analyze the compounds contained in all ciggie brands.

photo courtesy of gizmodo.

All Hail

2010-04-06T15:21:00.002-04:00

The Best Stems (and bod) in the business!

Fashion Flyby

2010-04-06T15:05:00.006-04:00

A few images that have caught my eye over the last little while, enjoy!
Claude Simonon as a young Elvis in Vogue Homme International.

Architectural footwear.

Daria in V64.

Baptiste Giabiconi as David Bowie for L'Officiel Hommes China

Atelier Versace 2010

2010-03-21T23:08:00.004-04:00

Versace has always been favored by starlets striving to look slick and sexy on the red carpet. These two dresses from the 2010 couture collection are stunners.
The rest of the Atelier Versace collection as modeled by Kasia Struss...

Regular folk

2010-03-15T19:20:00.002-04:00

So, after an interview (for the April 2010 cover story) with Gisele Bundchen, Joan Julia Buck-Vogue contributing editor-didn't have to worry about grabbing a cab on a dark, cold and rainy winter's evening. No, Tom Brady drove her back to her hotel.

Crazy About Conan

2010-03-11T13:06:00.001-05:00

The rumors are TRUE! Conan's going on tour! YAY!
Mostly dates in the US but there are 3 Canadian dates-get tickets here.

My Best Dressed: Oscars 2009

2010-03-08T09:21:00.008-05:00

Maggie G in Dries van Noten.

Despite the fact that I didn't want her to win-she did have the Best Speech of the night. One can't help but have a little bit of a girlcrush on Sandra Bullock-who also bucked the trend of strapless (with a pouffy or ruffles bottom half) and looked gorgeous in Marchesa. Hair and makeup were also on point.

I am so pleased the Hollywood chose honesty over hype this year. The Hurt Locker deserved best picture and Kathryn Bigelow deserved best director. The show, however, lacked some fun and panache. Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin were pretty funny but I missed Hugh Jackman. The way the show began was boring (bringing out the best actor nominees was dull) and the show should have started at 8pm instead of 830. Also, too many long vinegnettes and long introductions/montages that no one cares about-horror movies, explaining certain categories, showing a montage of scenes for best supporting actor/actress instead of one key scene...it all made the show drag.

Rachel McAdams in Ellie Saab couture

Meryl Streep in Chris March. She doesn't normally get it right but this simple and elegant tuxedo front dress was spot on and the terrific Ms Streep looked radiant.

After getting in right in red Valentino two years ago and getting it horribly wrong in some ugly wannabe prom outfit last year Miley Cyrus was a golden girl this year in Jenny Packham. One of the only strapless, with voluminous bottom dresses I actually liked. hair and makeup were elegant as well.

The Oscars What were you thinking award?! SJP, Zoe Saldana & Charlize Theron (really, swirly roses on your boobs, really?!)
The Oscars It could have been great award, except for: Cameron Diaz: lipstick, Tina Fey: hair, Carey Mulligan: the length of the front of the dress-should have been either shorter or longer.

thanks style.com for the photos

Lust

2010-02-24T16:16:00.003-05:00

I want these boots. Actually, I want the entire Burberry Fall/Winter 2010 collection, especially these boots and the multitude of over-size collared, military-inspired jackets.
Too bad I don't have thousands of GBPs lying around to shop their pre-order selections, yes, that's right you can (for a limited time only) get Burberry Fall/Winter 2010 pieces straight off the runway.

Team Canada 2010

2010-02-22T16:27:00.004-05:00

I watched last night and though I was bitterly disappointed with the result I maintain that Team Canada 2010 is a great team, well thought out and despite the ability to debate team selection I maintain that every player on the squad deserved a position. Last night's game was exciting and Canada was by far the better team (last half of the 1st period, most of the second period-up until the last few minutes and for bursts in the 3rd). Three consecutive penalties to end the 2nd and start the third, face-off tanning, two puck mis-handlings by Brodeur in the opening half of the game and the stellar play of Ryan Miller (which was to be expected and could have been overcome had it not been for the three things mentioned above) were the differences.

The expectation heaped on all of the Canadian athletes at this Olympics is silly and stupid. The viewing public and media should concentrate on the task ahead not just the gold medal-we are distracting our own athletes. This is a great team that Stevie Y put together but so are all the rest of the teams. This tournament is not the NHL and the media and our collective hockey obsession has raised our expectations such that we can't even face reality. Having said this though, the performance by the team has been spotty-they don't seem to be able to keep sustained pressure, Crosby/Nash have yet to get on a roll (I mean one shootout goal after he failed on the first and one regular goal aren't going to cut it Crosby), Martin has looked a little shaky (still good but not hot and we need a hot goaltender to win).

I've loved the way Toews has played this whole tournament. He's so plucky and has been creating a bevy of chances-I look to him to get rewarded soon for his play. I like him on every line Babcock puts him on. I also like the Staal/Getzlaf/Perry line though all three of them took dumbass penalties last night (how terrible do you think Perry felt after Kessler out-hustled him on the empty netter) they're intensity is great but they have to play a far more disciplined game. Scott Niedermayer really stepped up last night and Drew Doughty played well after a lackluster first two games (Weber has been good too but needs to shoot the puck more). Also, enough with the complaining about Babcock's line juggling-you knew this was going to happen-it's his style and some of our best offensive chances came from his unorthodox line pairings-it also happens that the 3rd American goal seemed to come at the expense of a sloppy line change due to siad juggling but I digress.

The men's hockey team has quite the hill to climb. Good luck against Germany I (and just about the entire nation) fully expect you to go through to the quarter-finals where Russia awaits you. Adversity is good-it will make the gold taste that much sweeter. Play 60 minutes of smart, solid hockey like we all know you are capable of and nothing and no one will stop you.

Competition

2010-02-18T09:25:00.002-05:00

At Torino I saw this kid and was like, who the hell does this ginger think he is. The answer? Shaun White. After watching him ride and hearing him speak all that skepticism melted away and I couldn't help but love him. Watching him win gold yesterday was something special. He didn't need to even do his 2nd run-he'd already won but instead he lay down a double McTwist (you could hear him telling the guys at the top he wanted to do it) and some giant airs-much to the delight of the crowd and scored a 48.4. It's crazy to watching someone so dominant. He isn't competing against the other boarders, he's competing against himself. The only way he'll loose in the pipe is if he fails himself and falls and even then that doesn't guarantee someone else victory.

Super bowl Musings

2010-02-08T09:05:00.003-05:00

I am so happy for the New Orleans Saints and the city of New Orleans. They played an incredible game, made some really ballsy calls, kept the ball out of Peyton Manning's hands for 3/4 of the game and came up huge on Sunday night. Congratulations!

Also, for a man who has been considered a lock on the Hall of Fame pretty much since his introduction into the NFL Peyton Manning is 9-9 in the playoffs with the same percentage in Super bowls (1 for 2). This may be kicking a man when he's down (and not to down play his truly incredible regular season stats) but where is he when it counts? Also, suck it Caldwell-this game doesn't reward those who don't play with guts.

Thanks for the picture!

2010-02-06T14:54:00.003-05:00

I've mused on this topic before but hearing this on the French channel was perfectly acceptable. Boy, licensing is a funny thing.

Disgust Day

2010-02-05T10:34:00.002-05:00

"I think every day should be a day of romance. Then, on Valentine's Day, you should get to tell whoever you hate that you cannot stand them. There would be one day of hating, and 364 days of love."

– Valentine's Day star Ashton Kutcher, on how he'd rework the holiday, to Parade magazine

(I can't believe I'm quoting Ashton freaking Kutcher, but there you go-I can't help but agree with him on this). Thanks mediabistro.com for the pic!

Sushi!

2010-02-01T21:25:00.002-05:00

I love sushi. I mean I really, really, really love sushi. I would go as far as to call myself a sushi snob-a label I wear with a certain amount of pride. So, it was with gusto that I consumed the creamy, fresh, local uni (left) before savoring a seasonal delicacy and personal favorite ankimo (salt-rubbed, sake-rinsed, steamed then chilled monk fish liver served with chili-dyed grated daikon, green onions and ponzu sauce-delicious!) at my favorite Japanese spot in Vancouver, Fuji Sushi. I had a second helping of ankimo later on-while it's around it's far too good to pass up!! nom nom nom!

If you can't make it out to Burquitlam to eat at Fuji then try Sushimart on Robson (it is owned by the same family and has a lower price point). If you go to Fuji be sure to eat at the counter and ask the chef about the daily specials (they're only written out on a small white board in Japanese).

Moar Boots

2010-01-31T18:25:00.004-05:00

So, I bought shoes. Boots to be exact. At Gravity Pope (because I need a new pair of boots and because GP is the best and they are having a crazy sale right now). Above GP nappa desert boots and below les lolitas almond toe soft leather boots. (I wanted to get thigh-highs but the ones I want were proving just too difficult to find, alas, maybe next year).

the Photographer and the Surgeon

2010-01-31T17:52:00.003-05:00

While back in Vancouver for a couple of days I was fortunate enough to go to the opening of the Geoffrey Farmer show, 'The Photographer and the Surgeon' at the Catriona Jeffries Gallery. The gallery is in an alley just east of main and north of first. Its only distinguishing detail is one of several new text-based, public art pieces in the city. It reads, "stay away from lonely places."

Inspired by Aby Warburg’s Memory Atlas Geoffrey Farmer has created 365 (one for every day of a year) puppets/sculptures using material and magazine cut outs. Each figure can be viewed from multiple angles, giving a different interpretation and look each time. I took pictures of two of the figures from either side to give an idea of the differences (and similarities) within one piece.

2010 Golden Globes Favorites

2010-01-18T14:18:00.007-05:00

So, the 2010 Golden Globes were last night. While I wish that the Hurt Locker would have won either director or best picture over Avatar I recognize that Hollywood's going to go with the crap, flash-bang, obvious choice. At this point I've given up hope that award shows will consistently recognize the best films. Acting prizes usually go to actors for a body of work (same for directors) and Best Picture is usually kind of a joke (Avatar like Titanic is a visually stunning movie but as far as script and storyline go-extremely corny).

So, let's concentrate on something Hollywood usually gets right, the fashion! Red carpet season has arrived and with it comes many a pretty frock.
At the 2010 Golden Globes I saw a lot of colour this year (yay!) and also a lot of one-shoulder dresses. Let's hope the ladies continue to pick interesting outfits...can't wait to see what some of them will be wearing to the Oscars!
Just one more thing: In case you don't know who the ladies who appear in this post are (from top to bottom) Marion Cotillard, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Dianna Agron (of Glee) & Diane Kruger.

(remember this dress? It's Christian Lacroix couture, a previous red carpet suggestion made by yours truly ;o)

As for the dress I didn't like, this year I really didn't like Tina Fey's dress or Drew Barrymore's despite Stylehog naming her best dressed (why did it need to have that bejeweled pouf on her hip-it looked like a gem-encrusted puss ball/adnormal growth-yuck!)

Thanks for the photos

Mid-season hockey musings

2010-01-08T10:34:00.003-05:00

I love the Canucks. I've been especially impressed with the way they have been playing as of late. It seems that ever since Vingault took over they have been slowly improving at playing a full 60 minutes of hockey, not sitting on leads (and not giving up when they're playing terribly) and playing with grit and determination no matter what the score. After Mitchell clipped Salo with his stick they were down to three D-men while on the penalty kill and still they did not give up, did not make any stupid plays. However, I think it's a little ridiculous to assume that based on the way they are playing that we will win the cup. I'll reserve my playoff predictions until I see the way they play on their upcoming epic road odyssey.

Also, as I've said for the last 2 years, the Blackhawks are looking mighty fine.

Infectious Pop Music

2010-01-04T22:56:00.002-05:00

Annie - I Know Ur Girlfriend Hates Me [New]
by elpolemico

I've loved Annie for a long time but I have been listening to Don't Stop a lot lately (along with CFCF's Continental). Forget Ke~dollarsign~sha and the like and listen to Annie.

Other notable songs are the mellow When the Night, super catchy I Can't Let Go and the Madonna-esque Song Reminds Me of You.

Grey Leather Boots

2010-01-03T20:36:00.001-05:00

I love you.
but seriously, $725?! I don't think so.

It's Over!

2009-12-28T15:19:00.003-05:00

Yessssss!
Tyra Banks has announced that this year will be the last for The Tyra Show! That's right, no more terrible interviewing and mellow dramatic day-time bs. It's over! I was sad about Oprah (although after 25 years and more money and power than God I agree that it was time to leave) but I'm ecstatic about this!

I've posted a video of Dave Salmoni on the Tyra Show (seriously, he-while dressed up as Tarzan-is the only person who could make me sit through an entire Trya interview) for eye candy.

Sunday Sports Musings

2009-12-27T18:34:00.004-05:00

Just a little while ago I had my sports hate eyes opened. I used to like the Yankees but after Joe Torre left my liking diminished. Everything clicked for them this year and I couldn't begrudge them this year's World Series. Their bats were hot and ever since the 2nd game of their series with the Angels I couldn't help but feel like there was no stopping them this year. The Colts and Peyton Manning on the other hand, I have always sports hated them, but with Manning having a monster year and that endearing Christmas commercial on permanent repeat, against all my instincts, I was starting to thaw.

Now, I'm sitting here watching the 14-0 Colts play the Jets. I don't want them to go undefeated. I switched from the Eagles v Broncs game just because I noticed that the lead in the game had recently sung in the Jets favor (and that it was a much closer game than the other) and what do I see...Manning (along Wayne and Clark) sitting on the sidelines. Their own fans are booing them and chanting, "We want Peyton!" I understand why you're resting your stars but the level of "compete" is just pathetic. It's a close game, they're losing (by 3 at the beginning the 4th quarter) and most of the O-line starters and D-starters are still playing...why not chase a perfect season?

Having said all this, the only team to have an undefeated regular season as of late maintained their starters and a genuine effort (sometimes to the point of opposition players and fans accusing the team of unsportsman-like conduct for NOT pulling their starters) for almost every game. In 2007 after their 10th week 'bye' this team had 3 games that ended in 3 point victories. The starters, unless injured in the game, played until the end of those games. Of course this team lost the Superbowl (and thus did not complete an undefeated season), so, maybe the Colts are just trying to learn from their rival's mistakes. Either that or they're a little softer and a lot more banged up and indifferent then their fans want to believe.

If Manning is going to be known as the best ever; then he should be in the game now, leading his team to victory and a step closer to a true, undefeated season. He should have enough confidence to know that he can win this game and all of the games afterwards, his coach should leave that decision up to him (if he's healthy). They already have a first round playoff bye; they should be going for 19-0. I can't respect you or your team as you sit on the sidelines and watch your lead slip away and your team lose.

There are 4 minutes left in the 4th and since Manning was taken out the Jets have scored 19 unanswered points. Yeah, exactly. The Colts just gave up-pathetic!

I always had the NY Rangers (sorry, Chris Drury but 'the team that defeated my team in game 7 of the Stanley Cup playoffs'+'Avery' are pretty much automatic sports hate fodder) but my football sports hate has returned.

2009-12-16T22:57:00.003-05:00

Does anyone else find it strange to hear the Hockey Night in Canada theme while watching hockey on TSN? I don't know if I'll ever get used to that, I don't think I should have to.-

Three of My Favorites

2009-11-26T22:08:00.001-05:00

This is an oldie but a goodie. Natalia, Daria and Gisele from Vogue Paris.

Funny because it's true

2009-11-24T08:44:00.001-05:00

Knocking My Socks Off

2009-11-11T11:51:00.002-05:00

No, I do not have babies on the brain-so don't even go there please and thank you-but I do have a penchant for amusing and appealing socks.
These are adorable (and awesome) socks for kids-I wish they made them in adult sizes.

i heart momofuku

2009-11-05T12:55:00.002-05:00

Coming out to play ball

2009-10-18T00:15:00.001-04:00

uh oh Angels. Look who has finally got over his post-season ghost-y-ness...

Tsumori Chisato Spring 2010

2009-10-06T23:40:00.001-04:00

I want almost everything in this collection (as usual).

Love Stella

2009-10-06T19:07:00.002-04:00

I've really enjoyed the collections this season. I have to say that I'm in love with the dress that Sasha P wore at the Stella McCartney show. In the 2nd pic you can see the back detailing on what seems like such a simple, luxurious, degraded racer-back dress <3

2 of my favorite things

2009-10-04T20:55:00.001-04:00

Glee and Heart

Just sayin'...

2009-10-01T21:53:00.003-04:00

The Vancouver film industry has been booming lately. What's currently being filmed there...The A-Team, Twillight (yuck, but still), life and death of charlie st cloud, night at the museum 2,
psych, supernatural, smallville and fringe...

Yowza!

2009-08-11T13:33:00.002-04:00

Well we knew that his face was intact and on September 14th we'll see about that knee.

2009-08-10T14:06:00.000-04:00

In and around the village of Bloomfield

2009-08-04T19:34:00.011-04:00

my favorite photo (that I took)

the parents of these adorable girls suggested that kk and samer adopt some of their own

Drop-crotch Pant Crew

Bloomfield's Best Restaurant and Inn, Angeline's

August Editorials

2009-07-17T13:53:00.004-04:00

Sneak Peek at eds from Elle and Vogue China's August Issues...

photos from fashion gone rogue and ru_glamour

!!!

2009-07-07T21:08:00.000-04:00

GIVENCHY COUTURE FALL 2009: AMAZING. STUNNING. MAGNIFICENT

Newly Purchased

2009-06-18T16:42:00.004-04:00

I bought these two items from the Alexander Wang-CFDA + GAP collaboration on tuesday.
I'm quite happy with both the pieces but I have to say that the sizing at the GAP is increasingly ridiculous.
I had to buy the jacket in an x-small, I was swimming in the small. I am by no means a large person but at 5'3" and 117lbs I am by no means the smallest. My shopping companion tried on and bought a VenaCava-CFDA+Gap dress in a size zero and while she is not curvy she does not possess the typical size zero body-type either.

Sizing in general has lately become a hot button topic for me. I don't understand why companies, especially North American ones (I have not noticed such a drastic change in sizing/fit with European brands), insist on pandering to our unhealthy obsession with weight and body image. They are just helping to entrench the practice of basing ones self-worth on a little number on the back of our clothing. The fashion industry should be trying to get people to accept themselves for what and who they are, to love the bodies they have. The north american fashion industry has instead decided to help propogate society's delusions.

We need to stop believing that we are something that we are not (smaller and skinnier). It isn't about the number on the back of our clothes but how those clothes look and fit on our bodies and how they make us feel when we are wearing them. There is no shame in being an actual extra large or having a 34 waist or being a size 8 just as there is no shame in being a true size zero or having a natural (meaning not dues to illness) 23 inch waist. Due to advances in technology, farming and health we, as a population and as a species are growing- not only increasing in numbers but increasing in individual size and strength. There is no reason for a company such as the GAP to have seperate sizing for North Americans that excludes petite, slim figures and sells white-lies to larger, more volumptuous ones.

2009-06-05T13:21:00.001-04:00

Ladies day at Epsom racecourse.

Pretty dresses

2009-06-03T14:08:00.003-04:00

oscar de la renta resort 2010

Wu-wow

2009-06-02T12:46:00.002-04:00

Jason Wu in a flowing evening gown, Alexander Wang in ripped up cotton jersey, ripped up denim and oversized leather and marc jacobs wearing those bunny ears.... it's all in this year's CFDA Journal (photographed by Craig McDean).

Not pictured at the link are 18 of the 21 other CFDA winners and nominees such as Lazaro and Jack of Proenza Schouler.

Glee

2009-05-27T14:47:00.000-04:00

I watched the preview first episode and I can't wait for the fall tv schedule to start!

Lunch in a Thermos

2009-05-05T17:15:00.003-04:00

I'm not referring to those girls who keep their svelte figures by adhering to the liquid only diet.
This is the Zojirushi Ms. Bento Vacuum Thermos.
It comes with three different interlocking tops that fit into the thermos.
Spork and bag included.

available at amazon

Balenciaga Fall 2009

2009-05-05T12:27:00.002-04:00

hypebeast.com

Bubbles and Baubbles

2009-05-01T17:03:00.002-04:00

Amber beads, brass accessories.

Bowman

2009-04-30T23:46:00.002-04:00

For the last two years I have been waiting for the Chicago Blackhawks. While everyone else was (rightfully) yapping about the Penguins and the Capitals (mostly for Ovechkin but shout out to Green and Semin) the team to watch -for me- was Chicago. I knew that they were re-emerging as a hockey power house and as someone who has always paid attention to hockey from the West Coast I have been excited to watch this team come into its own.

While watching the game tonight who did I spy in the team box but one of the greatest hockey masterminds, perhaps the greatest living today. Many teams owe a debt of gratitude to this man (Habs and Wings You know the awesomeness of this man). I knew that he had to have had a hand in the excitiment that is brewing in the windy city.

Too bad they are playing my team this round.

It's a case of new, exciting and hungry against older, experienced and starving.

(I don't have tv and I rely on cbc.ca live streaming, espn highlights and print media from both of these outlets and a few others for my hockey information and games and this is my excuse as to not have had confirmation that Mr Bowman was involved in the program in Chicago).

Mark

2009-04-23T22:34:00.005-04:00

So, with the revival of the 90's supermodel, let us revisit a few other supermodels of yore. These ones didn't get quite the attention or cause quite the stir but I definately recognize the faces. In a world where photoshop, botox and plastic surgery are taking over it's kind of refreshing to see a few supermodels attain a certain level of rugged masculinity that has helped them to age gorgeously (and gracefully).

ru_glamour as more!

Kass

2009-04-23T22:25:00.001-04:00

Carmen Kass is just getting better (and hotter) with age.

Gilt Meet Outnet

2009-04-16T18:15:00.003-04:00

Gilt.com has some competition in the form of net-a-porter.com's cheaper sister, outnet.com.

The difference? Outnet is only for the gals, while gilt.com is more inclusive (guys, gals and kids) and I still find that Gilt offers better deals but Outnet has a great selection of designer labels.

Marni peep-toe ankle boots $460 (that's 50% off the regular price) at outnet.com

More from Vogue May 2009

2009-04-15T17:49:00.002-04:00

I can't get enough of the model centric May 2009 Vogue. For as much flak as I (an many people) give Anna Wintour's publication for catering to the celebrity obsessed market I forgive them with every turn of the page of this issue.

Models!

2009-04-12T22:43:00.001-04:00

Fuzzy Feet

2009-04-07T21:52:00.002-04:00

Yes, the impossible is possible.

Behold, the Christian Louboutin leopard print, pony skin sneaker. Sneakerheads everywhere (who are we kidding, even victoria beckam is going to want these) can only pray these go into production for A/W 2009

source