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 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!
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.
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!
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 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,
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.
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 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!
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.
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!
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,
The post Glamorous Getaways: the Inn on Fifth & Club Level Suites – Naples, Florida! appeared first on The Glamorous Gourmet.
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
The post 5 Fabulous Things To Do This Fall! appeared first on The Glamorous Gourmet.
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,
The post 5 Fabulous Things To Do This Fall! appeared first on The Glamorous Gourmet.
“I always make ice cream when I can’t sleep, so I’m glad someone was here to eat it.” – Jane Adler, It’s Complicated Ever since I saw the movie It’s Complicated starring Meryl Streep and Alec Baldwin I’ve wanted to make Honey Lavender Ice Cream. For a movie whose primary plot involves a dysfunctional family and a love triangle, the... Read More
The post Sweet Treat: Honey Lavender Ice Cream! appeared first on The Glamorous Gourmet.
“I always make ice cream when I can’t sleep, so I’m glad someone was here to eat it.”
- Jane Adler, It’s Complicated
Ever since I saw the movie It’s Complicated starring Meryl Streep and Alec Baldwin I’ve wanted to make Honey Lavender Ice Cream. For a movie whose primary plot involves a dysfunctional family and a love triangle, the underlying theme is undoubtedly food! Streep’s character, Jane Adler, is a French culinary school graduate who spends the majority of the film baking pies for her girlfriends, whipping up pain au chocolat for her architect, roasting chicken and baking chocolate cake for her ex-husband, and cooking elaborate meals for her family. While I do love all of these things (really I do!) the dish that caught my attention was the Honey Lavender Ice Cream. So when my cooking buddy, neighbor and baker extraordinaire Dwight Langford suggested we hit the kitchen to test dessert recipes I knew I had to try this one!
After testing a few different recipes, I came up with this one which combines the best elements of each. The texture is rich and luxurious but not too heavy; the flavors are nicely balanced but not too powerful; and the ice cream is sweet but not cloyingly so. In fact, no sugar is added to the recipe, the sweetness is dictated solely by the honey and cream. The type of honey you use in this recipe also makes a big difference. Ideally you want one with a mild flavor such as acacia which has a low acid content and is very light in color. I used the Rigoni di Asiago Mielbo Organic Italian Acacia Raw Honey I found at Fresh Market which was perfect. Acacia honey comes from the black locust or false acacia tree and is light-colored with a mild taste and hints of vanilla. It is considered “raw” because it is cold-pressed and has natural antibacterial and antibiotic properties.
The only equipment needed is a candy/instant read thermometer and an ice cream maker and you are good to go! A few things to remember, (1) be sure to put the freezer bowl for the ice cream maker in the freezer the night before you make the ice cream, (2) plan to make the Honey Lavender Ice Cream the day before serving in order to allow time for it to set up in the freezer, and most importantly (3) enjoy!
Cheers,
“Honey Lavender Ice Cream”
Makes approximately 1 quart
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 cups half and half
2/3 cup mild honey such as acacia
2 Tablespoons dried edible lavender flowers plus extra for garnish
2 large eggs
1/8 teaspoon Kosher salt
Bring cream, half and half, lavender and honey just to a boil in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent mixture from burning, then remove pan from heat. Cover and let steep for 30 minutes.
Pour mixture through a sieve into a bowl and discard lavender. Clean saucepan and return mixture to it and heat over medium heat until hot.
Whisk eggs and salt together in a large bowl, then gradually add one cup of the hot cream mixture to it in a slow stream whisking constantly to prevent eggs from cooking. Once mixed, add to remaining mixture in saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of the spoon and reaches 175 degrees on the thermometer, about 5 minutes – be careful not to let mixture boil!
Pour mixture through sieve again and into a clean bowl and allow to cool completely, stirring regularly to prevent a skin from forming on the top of the mixture. Once cooled, cover with plastic wrap and chill in refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
Freeze mixture in ice cream maker according to machine directions, transfer to container and chill in the freezer to harden, preferably overnight. Garnish with dried lavender flowers and enjoy!
The post Sweet Treat: Honey Lavender Ice Cream! appeared first on The Glamorous Gourmet.
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