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Cocktail Couture: the Smoked Sazerac!

Although 10:29pm today officially marks the start of Fall, for some reason I’ve been craving it for the past month. From drinking (way too many) Pumpkin Spice Lattes to coming up with a list of 5 Fabulous Things to Do this Fall – for some reason I can’t get this season off my mind. I recently came across a cocktail... Read More

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Cocktail Couture: the Smoked Sazerac!

Smoked Sazerac, Rye, Peychaud's bitters, absinthe, The River Bar, Cocktail Couture

Although 10:29pm today officially marks the start of Fall, for some reason I’ve been craving it for the past month. From drinking (way too many) Pumpkin Spice Lattes to coming up with a list of 5 Fabulous Things to Do this Fall – for some reason I can’t get this season off my mind. I recently came across a cocktail that’s further perpetuating my fascination with Fall, the Smoked Sazerac is a riff on the traditional Sazerac, largely considered America’s oldest cocktail, which originated in New Orleans in the 19th century. We discovered this delicious drink during a recent visit to The Cloister at Sea Island in Southeast Georgia, one of our favorite vacation spots.

Every time we visit, we have dinner at the River Bar the night we arrive. Inspired by a French brasserie, the River Bar overlooks the Black Banks River on the west side of Sea Island and makes a wonderful spot for watching the sunset…generally with cocktail in hand. This time the Smoked Sazerac caught Steve’s eye and underneath the list of ingredients was an asterisk followed by the caveat, “This cocktail requires extended time for production”…and for good reason!

Our bartender Kelly kindly took us through each step of making this fabulous drink which was worth every minute of preparation time. The traditional Sazerac ingredients of rye, absinthe, and Peychaud’s bitters are enhanced by the Fall-inspired flavors of ginger cinnamon syrup and smoke from cherry wood chips. The wood chips are ignited at the bar by flaming absinthe and the resulting smoke is captured in a chilled old-fashioned glass the drink is served from.

If you’re entertaining this season or just feel like indulging, this drink is well worth the effort and will surely put you and/or your guests in the Fall spirit(s)! I sincerely hope you enjoy our latest edition of Cocktail Couture, to see past installments of this segment, please click here.

So what’s your favorite cocktail to enjoy in the Fall? Do tell!

Cheers,

Signature

 

 

Smoked Sazerac
Makes one drink

3 ounces Bulleit Rye
1 ounce ginger syrup*
1/2 ounce of Vieux Carré Absinthe
A couple dashes of Peychaud’s bitter or to taste
Orange peel for garnish

Chill an old-fashioned glass by filling it with ice and setting is aside while you prepare the rest of the drink. In another glass add the ginger syrup and a few dashes of the Peychaud’s bitters and stir to combine. Then add the rye and a few ice cubes to the glass with the bitters and ginger syrup, stir to combine.

Place the cherrywood chips in a firesafe bowl. Fill a jigger with approximately 1/2 ounce of absinthe and using a match or kitchen torch, ignite the absinthe. Pour the flaming absinthe over the cherry wood chips to ignite. Empty the ice from the first glass and invert it over the burning wood chips, filling the glass with smoke. Once it’s filled with smoke, carefully turn it right side up and very slowly strain the rye, ginger syrup and bitters mixture into it. Place the orange peel on the burning cherry wood chips for a few seconds until the edges are lightly charred, garnish the drink with it and serve.

*Ginger Syrup
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
1 – 2″ piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
1 cinnamon stick

Heat sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat and stir until sugar is dissolved. Add the chopped ginger and cinnamon stick to the sugar mixture and bring to a boil then remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes. Strain mixture through a sieve into an airtight container and discard ginger and cinnamon. Syrup will keep for up to one month.


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Glamorous Getaways: the Inn on Fifth in Naples, Florida!

We recently kicked off our Glamorous Getaways segment which featured Tampa's new food and wine-centric Epicurean Hotel. This week, we're heading to the newly renovated Inn on Fifth in Naples, Florida, a boutique hotel whose newest incarnation is arguably the gem in the crown of downtown's tony Fifth Avenue.inn-on-fifth-lobby-2Inn-on-fifth-hotel-room-bedsA recent $20 million renovation and expansion of the Inn on Fifth added the Club Level Suites, located directly across the street from the hotel proper. The new three-story building features 32 beautifully appointed suites, adding an air of exclusivity to an already elegant establishment. The Club Level rooms feature large floor plans ranging from 500 to 1,160 square feet and amenities of the Club Level include a 24-hour Concierge, separate check-in, private rooftop hot tub and sunbathing area. Club Level guests are also treated to complimentary breakfast, snacks and beverages throughout the day, and evening cocktails and appetizers - everything you'd expect from one of our Glamorous Getaways!inn-on-fifth-naples-collage-1In keeping with the luxurious feel of the newly added Club Level Suites, the renovation of the existing hotel was also beautifully executed with a similar attention to detail and commitment to elegance. The contemporary décor features a palate of warm grays, creamy whites, crisp black and bold splashes of red, and guest rooms offer custom furniture and artwork, crown molding, and a variety of views showcasing the Inn's pool, tropical interior courtyard, and fabulous Fifth Avenue. Standard amenities include luxurious French terry bathrobes, in-room refrigerator, iPod alarm clock/docking station, complimentary valet parking and my personal favorite, free Wi-Fi! Formerly a Fifth Avenue bank building this boutique hotel is located in the center of Fifth Avenue and is surrounded by upscale boutiques, antique shops and art galleries and is just a short stroll from the beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Mexico.The Inn on Fifth was recently included as one of just 46 Recommended Hotels in the world to be showcased in the Forbes Travel Guide, and has once again been awarded AAA Four Diamond status. It was also the recipient of a 2014 Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor. This prestigious award recognizes businesses that consistently earn top ratings from TripAdvisor travelers.inn-on-fifth-avenue5-collage-1For the culinarily inclined, there is the addition of a fabulous new restaurant, Avenue5. Taking the place of McCabe's Irish Pub and Cafe on the hotel's ground floor this beautiful new restaurant, designed by world-renowned designer Jeffrey Beers, serves lunch and dinner daily in a distinctively glamorous atmosphere. The décor features an inviting island bar in the restaurant's center that seats 19 while nearby is the Chef's Table which can accommodate up to eight for an exclusive culinary experience created by Executive Chef John Welch (pictured above). Phil McCabe, owner of Avenue5 and the Inn on Fifth and Club Level Suites, comments, "Countless hours of planning and hard work have gone into the design and opening of Avenue5, but it has all paid off." After a recent visit to the hotel, at the invitation of its marketing group, I definitely agree!inn-on-fifth-avenue5-collage-2Upon arriving I checked into a beautiful second floor suite in the main building with a fabulous view of Fifth Avenue. After the quick two hour drive from Florida's east coast, I had just enough time to change and pop downstairs for dinner at the Chef's Table at Avenue5. The seven course Chef's Table menu, prepared by Chef Welch, a native New Englander who has trained under James Beard Award-winning and Certified Master Chefs, featured creative and inspired dishes beautifully executed and expertly paired with wines from around the globe.Some of my favorite courses and pairings included King Salmon Gravlax, Rock Shrimp, Lemon Grass, Ginger, Asian Greens and Tamarind Vinaigrette paired with the 2011 St. Supery Dollarhide Ranch Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc; the Blue Diamond Shrimp, Florida Corn Two Ways, Cotija Cheese, Ancho Chili Sauce & Cilantro paired with the 2012 Frank Family Carneros Chardonnay; Masami Skirt Steak, Roasted Cauliflower, Salt Cured Potato, Enoki Mushrooms and Gravy paired with the 2009 Numanthia Toro from Spain; and a dessert of Blueberry Potato Cake, Blueberry Caramel, Berries and White Chocolate Mousse paired with Taylor Fladgate 20 yr. Tawny Port. The restaurant's focus plays to Chef's passions which include Maine lobster, Florida's bounty of savory seafood, as well as mouthwatering steaks. The restaurant also features an impressive selection of 300 wines by the glass and by the bottle including American favorites, European classics, and select specialties from South America and Australia. Guests can also enjoy popular craft beers, premium liquors, and signature cocktails such as barrel aged cocktails and herb-based drinks. Avenue5 features deliciously creative food and sophisticated drinks served in an aesthetically appealing "Vintage Glam" ambiance which makes a wonderful addition to the hotel and the Fifth Avenue culinary scene.The next morning, after a leisurely stroll across the street for a cup of coffee at Starbucks (located about a half block away), it was time for a massage at the Spa on Fifth. Located on the third floor of the Inn's main building, this is the only part of the hotel which has yet to be renovated. Its Balinese-inspired, bamboo adorned décor is in stark contrast to the elegant feel of the rest of the hotel but a renovation of the spa is planned for later this year. Despite the décor the 60-minute Signature Massage I received was wonderful and thoroughly relaxing, I look forward to returning to check out the new facility.The Inn on Fifth is another fabulous Florida Glamorous Getaways location. Whether you're looking for a relaxing weekend reading a book at the beach, enjoying a gourmet experience at Avenue5, sunbathing on the rooftop deck of the Club Level Suites, or pampering yourself at the Spa on Fifth, Naples' Inn on Fifth definitely has a little something for everyone.The Inn on Fifth & Club Level Suites 699 5th Avenue South Naples, Florida 34102 Phone: 239.403.7170 www.avenue5naples.comCheers,Signature

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Glamorous Getaways: the Inn on Fifth in Naples, Florida!

We recently kicked off our Glamorous Getaways segment which featured Tampa’s new food and wine-centric Epicurean Hotel. This week, we’re heading to the newly renovated Inn on Fifth in Naples, Florida, a boutique hotel whose newest incarnation is arguably the gem in the crown of downtown’s tony Fifth Avenue. A recent $20 million renovation and expansion of the Inn on... Read More

The post Glamorous Getaways: the Inn on Fifth in Naples, Florida! appeared first on The Glamorous Gourmet.

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Glamorous Getaways: the Inn on Fifth & Club Level Suites – Naples, Florida!

Inn on Fifth Lobby, Naples, Florida

We recently kicked off our Glamorous Getaways segment which featured Tampa’s new food and wine-centric Epicurean Hotel. This week, we’re heading to the newly renovated Inn on Fifth in Naples, Florida, a boutique hotel whose newest incarnation is arguably the gem in the crown of downtown’s tony Fifth Avenue.

Inn on Fifth Collage, Naples, Florida, Club Level Suites

A recent $20 million renovation and expansion of the Inn on Fifth added the Club Level Suites, located directly across the street from the hotel proper. The new three-story building features 32 beautifully appointed suites, adding an air of exclusivity to an already elegant establishment. The Club Level rooms feature large floor plans ranging from 500 to 1,160 square feet and amenities of the Club Level include a 24-hour Concierge, separate check-in, private rooftop hot tub and sunbathing area. Club Level guests are also treated to complimentary breakfast, snacks and beverages throughout the day, and evening cocktails and appetizers – everything you need to set the stage for a Glamorous Getaway!

Inn on Fifth, Naples, Florida

In keeping with the luxurious feel of the newly added Club Level Suites, the renovation of the existing hotel was also beautifully executed with a similar attention to detail and commitment to elegance. The contemporary décor features a palate of warm grays, creamy whites, crisp black and bold splashes of red, and guest rooms offer custom furniture and artwork, crown molding, and a variety of views showcasing the Inn’s pool, tropical interior courtyard, and fabulous Fifth Avenue. Standard amenities include luxurious French terry bathrobes, in-room refrigerator, iPod alarm clock/docking station, complimentary valet parking and my personal favorite, free Wi-Fi! Formerly a Fifth Avenue bank building this boutique hotel is located in the center of Fifth Avenue and is surrounded by upscale boutiques, antique shops and art galleries and is just a short stroll from the beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Mexico.

The Inn on Fifth was recently included as one of just 46 Recommended Hotels in the world to be showcased in the Forbes Travel Guide, and has once again been awarded AAA Four Diamond status. It was also the recipient of a 2014 Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor. This prestigious award recognizes businesses that consistently earn top ratings from TripAdvisor travelers.

Avenue5 Restaurant, Inn on Fifth, Naples, Florida

For the culinarily inclined, there is the addition of a fabulous new restaurant, Avenue5. Taking the place of McCabe’s Irish Pub and Cafe on the hotel’s ground floor this beautiful new restaurant, designed by world-renowned designer Jeffrey Beers, serves lunch and dinner daily in a distinctively glamorous atmosphere. The décor features an inviting island bar in the restaurant’s center that seats 19 while nearby is the Chef’s Table which can accommodate up to eight for an exclusive culinary experience created by Executive Chef John Welch (pictured above). Phil McCabe, owner of Avenue5 and the Inn on Fifth and Club Level Suites, comments, “Countless hours of planning and hard work have gone into the design and opening of Avenue5, but it has all paid off.” After a recent visit to the hotel, at the invitation of its marketing group, I definitely agree!

Avenue5 Collage, Restaurant, Inn on Fifth, Naples, Florida

Upon arriving I checked into a beautiful second floor suite in the main building with a fabulous view of Fifth Avenue. After the quick two hour drive from Florida’s east coast, I had just enough time to change and pop downstairs for dinner at the Chef’s Table at Avenue5. The seven course Chef’s Table menu, prepared by Chef Welch, a native New Englander who has trained under James Beard Award-winning and Certified Master Chefs, featured creative and inspired dishes beautifully executed and expertly paired with wines from around the globe.

Some of my favorite courses and pairings included King Salmon Gravlax, Rock Shrimp, Lemon Grass, Ginger, Asian Greens and Tamarind Vinaigrette paired with the 2011 St. Supery Dollarhide Ranch Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc; the Blue Diamond Shrimp, Florida Corn Two Ways, Cotija Cheese, Ancho Chili Sauce & Cilantro paired with the 2012 Frank Family Carneros Chardonnay; Masami Skirt Steak, Roasted Cauliflower, Salt Cured Potato, Enoki Mushrooms and Gravy paired with the 2009 Numanthia Toro from Spain; and a dessert of Blueberry Potato Cake, Blueberry Caramel, Berries and White Chocolate Mousse paired with Taylor Fladgate 20 yr. Tawny Port. The restaurant’s focus plays to Chef’s passions which include Maine lobster, Florida’s bounty of savory seafood, as well as mouthwatering steaks. The restaurant also features an impressive selection of 300 wines by the glass and by the bottle including American favorites, European classics, and select specialties from South America and Australia. Guests can also enjoy popular craft beers, premium liquors, and signature cocktails such as barrel aged cocktails and herb-based drinks. Avenue5 features deliciously creative food and sophisticated drinks served in an aesthetically appealing “Vintage Glam” ambiance which makes a wonderful addition to the hotel and the Fifth Avenue culinary scene.

The next morning, after a leisurely stroll across the street for a cup of coffee at Starbucks (located about a half block away), it was time for a massage at the Spa on Fifth. Located on the third floor of the Inn’s main building, this is the only part of the hotel which has yet to be renovated. Its Balinese-inspired, bamboo adorned décor is in stark contrast to the elegant feel of the rest of the hotel but a renovation of the spa is planned for later this year. Despite the décor the 60-minute Signature Massage I received was wonderful and thoroughly relaxing, I look forward to returning to check out the new facility.

The Inn on Fifth is another fabulous Florida Glamorous Getaway location. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend reading a book at the beach, enjoying a gourmet experience at Avenue5, sunbathing on the rooftop deck of the Club Level Suites, or pampering yourself at the Spa on Fifth, Naples’ Inn on Fifth definitely has a little something for everyone.

The Inn on Fifth & Club Level Suites
699 5th Avenue South
Naples, Florida 34102
Phone: 239.403.7170
www.avenue5naples.com

Cheers,

Signature

 

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5 Fabulous Things To Do This Fall!

Labor Day has come and gone and those lazy Summer days have magically transformed into the countdown to Christmas! In many parts of the country the arrival of Fall is heralded by the changing of the leaves and a refreshing dip in the temperature. Here in sunny South Florida, however, the change of season is not as discernible. For all... Read More

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5 Fabulous Things To Do This Fall!

PUMPKIN PATCH, Fall, Autumn

Labor Day has come and gone and those lazy Summer days have magically transformed into the countdown to Christmas! In many parts of the country the arrival of Fall is heralded by the changing of the leaves and a refreshing dip in the temperature. Here in sunny South Florida, however, the change of season is not as discernible. For all you fellow fans of Fall, here are 5 Fabulous Things you can do to usher in the season:

1.) Master a recipe featuring one of your favorite Fall ingredients: Butternut Squash Lasagna, Porcini Mushroom & Barley Soup and Pumpkin Pie Trifle are just a few recipes that beautifully showcase some of our favorite flavors of Fall. Simply pick a recipe based on one of your favorite flavors and practice up. By the time the holidays roll around you’ll be ready to bring a delicious side dish or dessert and who knows, you might even feel like hosting a holiday meal yourself!

2.) Drink those Rosés: Rosé is the quintessential Summer wine and since 99% of rosé produced is best consumed upon release, now is the time to drink up! Maybe an “End of Summer Rosé Soirée” is the way to go depending on how much you have left, but in addition to drinking that rosé while it’s fresh and delicious you also need to make room for those wines best suited for Fall including Viognier, Pinot Noir, and many more (for suggestions, please click here).

3.) Plan a Leaf Peeping Trip: There’s nothing like witnessing the changing of the leaves from vibrant green to magnificent shades of red, gold and brown to put you in the mood for Fall. A great region for leaf peeping might be a quick road trip away so pack your sweater and boots and head to one of the many US regions known for fabulous Fall foliage. Some of our favorites include Boston, Massachusetts; Cashiers, North Carolina; and Boulder, Colorado (for more information, please click here).

4.) Plan a Halloween Party: Do you still like to dress up for Halloween but usually find yourself procrastinating and throwing together a makeshift costume at the last minute? Well throw away that ratty old witch’s hat and plan your own Halloween Costume party this year! Put the word out now so guests will be sure to “save the date” and have fun planning your costume in addition to all the party details while getting in the Halloween spirit.

5.) Listen to the Music: Perhaps one of my favorite things about this time of year is the music. Whether you’re driving in the car, making dinner in the kitchen, or taking a brisk walk be sure to keep your favorite Fall playlist on the ready. Some of our favorite songs for the season include Lady Gaga’s “Orange Colored Sky”; Vince Guaraldi’s “Great Pumpkin Waltz”; and “Autumn in New York” by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong.

I hope these suggestions help make your transition into Fall more enjoyable. What are some of your favorite things that put you in an Autumn state of mind?

Cheers,

Signature


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