• food,  Gift Guide,  Los Angeles,  New York,  San Diego

    Indulge Your Mom’s Sweet Tooth with Z. Cioccolato’s Handmade Fudge

    Mother’s Day is a special occasion to honor and appreciate the incredible women who have raised us and supported us throughout our lives. If you’re looking for a unique and delicious way to celebrate your mother this year, consider giving her a Z. Cioccolato fudge gift box.

    Z. Cioccolato is a San Francisco-based company that handcrafts high-quality fudge and other chocolate confections using only the finest ingredients. Their fudge is rich, creamy, and available in a variety of flavors, including classic chocolate, peanut butter, cookies & cream, and more. With a Z. Cioccolato fudge gift box, you can treat your mother to a sweet and indulgent gift that she is sure to love.

    One of the best things about giving a Z. Cioccolato fudge gift box for Mother’s Day is that it is a unique and thoughtful gift. While flowers and cards are always appreciated, a box of artisanal fudge and other treats is a special and unexpected treat that shows your mother just how much you care. Plus, with a variety of flavors to choose from, you can customize your gift to suit your mother’s tastes and preferences.

    When you give a Z. Cioccolato fudge gift box, you’re not just giving a gift – you’re giving an experience. Each piece of fudge is carefully crafted and hand-wrapped, making every bite a moment of pure indulgence. Your mother will savor each and every flavor, and every time she enjoys a piece of fudge, she’ll think of you and the love you share.

    In conclusion, if you want to give your mother a gift that is both delicious and meaningful, consider a Z. Cioccolato fudge gift box this Mother’s Day. With its high-quality ingredients, unique flavors, and handmade craftsmanship, this gift is sure to delight and impress the special woman in your life.

    Z. Cioccolato’s S’more Fudge is my favorite! It is a delicious twist on the classic campfire treat. This handmade fudge combines the rich and creamy texture of Z. Cioccolato’s signature fudge with the sweet and gooey flavors of marshmallow and graham cracker, making for a delightful and indulgent dessert.

    The S’more Fudge is made with high-quality ingredients, including premium chocolate, butter, and cream, which are carefully blended together to create a smooth and velvety texture. The fudge is then layered with marshmallow fluff and crumbled graham crackers, giving it a sweet and crunchy texture that perfectly complements the rich chocolate.

    With each bite, you’ll experience the perfect balance of flavors and textures, as the creamy fudge melts in your mouth and blends with the sweet and crunchy toppings. Whether you’re a fan of traditional s’mores or simply love the taste of chocolate, Z.Cioccolato’s S’more Fudge is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

    Z. Cioccolato’s S’more Fudge is a unique and delicious treat that is perfect for sharing with friends and family, or indulging in all by yourself. So if you’re looking for a fun and flavorful dessert that captures the essence of summertime, be sure to try Z.Cioccolato’s S’more Fudge today.

    What else do I have in the gift box?

    Z. Cioccolato’s gift box includes a variety of delicious treats, including their caramel popcorn. This gourmet snack is the perfect addition to the box, offering a sweet and salty taste to complement the other handmade fudge flavors. The caramel popcorn is carefully crafted with premium ingredients, ensuring a delightful combination of crunch and chewiness. It’s a perfect snack to enjoy while indulging in the rich and creamy flavors of the fudge, making the Z. Cioccolato gift box a perfect treat for any occasion.

    Z. Cioccolato’s chocolate covered Oreos are a decadent and delicious addition to their gift box. These classic cookies are coated in a layer of rich and velvety chocolate, making for a satisfying and indulgent treat. The combination of the crunchy cookie and smooth chocolate creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it hard to resist just one. The chocolate covered Oreos are handmade with high-quality ingredients, ensuring that each bite is a heavenly experience. They make a perfect addition to the Z. Cioccolato gift box and a great treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.

    Z. Cioccolato’s Salt Water Taffy is a delightful treat that adds a touch of nostalgia to their gift box. This taffy is soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor. Each piece is individually wrapped, making them perfect for snacking or sharing. The gift box includes an assortment of flavors, from classic fruit to more unique and whimsical options. With its bright colors and sweet taste, Z. Cioccolato’s Salt Water Taffy is a fun and delicious addition to any occasion.

    Z. Cioccolato’s Chocolate Truffles are an indulgent addition to their gift box that are sure to impress. Made with the finest quality chocolate and expert craftsmanship, the truffles are a rich and velvety treat that melt in your mouth. Each truffle makes it a beautiful presentation and a luxurious texture. The gift box includes an two flavors, they are creamy, French-inspired granache wrapped with milk, dark and white Belgian chocolates and topped with a signature design from the chef!

    Z. Cioccolato – from San Francisco’s beloved sweet shop featured on the Cooking Channel’s “Unique Sweets” and ranked by MSN as one of the top 25 of all shops in the U.S., Z. Cioccolato brings multi-layered gourmet fudge to the rest of the world. Made only 6-pounds at a time, Z. Cioccolato fudge showcases up to seven layers with candy legends such as Reese’s, Heath English Toffee, liquors, and beer such as Irish Coffee and Guiness, epicurean classics like Boston Cream Pie and time-proven favorites such as mint chocolate, salted caramel, peanut butter and more.

  • Las Vegas,  Los Angeles,  Miami,  New York,  San Diego

    Fun Star Wars Cocktails to Celebrate Star Wars Day: May the 4th Be With You!

    These are the drinks you’re looking for! Rock legend Sammy Hagar is celebrating Star Wars Day on May the 4th with five cocktail recipes that are simply out of this world. You won’t need a protocol droid to translate these Star Wars-themed drinks, which have been renamed in honor of the iconic film series. The drinks are a fun twist on existing recipes from his best selling cocktail book, “Sammy Hagar’s Cocktail Hits,” and all featuring his award winning brand Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum. May the 4th be with you!

    The Sith Lord

    In the times of the Old Republic, there were legions of Sith. However, that all changed when the rule of two was introduced, which stated that there may be no more than two Sith at any given time, the master and the apprentice. Luckily for you, no such rule exists when it comes to this sinfully delicious twist on the Kir Royale, now aptly named The Sith Lord. You may have as many as your heart desires! This villainous red tinctured drink is a swanky cocktail perfect for sipping from the throne room of the Death Star, or in the cockpit of an Imperial Star Destroyer as you hunt down Jedi scum. Be careful though! This champagne based drink is the pathway to such a great time, that it could be considered “unnatural.” A photo of The Sith Lord aka the Kir Royale is available for download here.

    The Sith Lord aka Kir Royale

    1 ounce Sammy’s Beach Bar Red Head Rum, divided

    4 ounces chilled champagne

    Garnish: fresh lemon twist

    Preparation: Add half the rum to a chilled champagne flute. Slowly add the chilled champagne until ½ inch from the top. Top  with the remaining rum. Garnish with a fresh lemon twist.

    The Rebel Princess

    The Rebel Princess, is an intergalactic twist on Sammy’s Coconut Mojito, and on a hot May day, this flavorful white drink may be your “only hope” for some refreshment. Like the Princess of Alderaan, this drink’s dainty and pretty outward appearance belies an inner power beyond belief! This spunky drink pairs the traditional mojito ingredients of rum, lime, mint and cane sugar with the tropical nuances of coconut.  Whether you’re sipping this drink in the hot Tatooine sun, or getting ready for a night at Mos Eisley Cantina, this drink has got you covered. A photo of the Rebel Princess aka Sammy’s Coconut Mojito is available here.

    The Rebel Princess aka Sammy’s Coconut Mojito

    6-8 fresh mint leaves

    1 ½ teaspoons brown sugar

    ½ ounce fresh lime juice

    1 ½ ounces of Sammy’s Beach Bar Platinum Rum

    2 ounces coconut water

    1 ½ ounces Cocó Lopez Cream of Coconut

    1 ounce soda water

    Rim: coconut cream and toasted coconut flakes

    Garnish: fresh mint sprig

    Preparation: Dip the rim of a rocks glass in some coconut cream then roll the moistened rim in toasted coconut flakes. In a prepared glass, add the mint leaves, brown sugar, and lime juice. Using a muddler, gently (yet firmly) muddle the ingredients. Then fill with ice and add the rum, coconut water, and coconut cream. Stir well and top with soda water. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig.

    The Jawa Roast

    Jawas, those loveable little creatures who abducted R2D2 and C3PO in the beginning of “A New Hope,” have been a long-time favorite of fans of the series. These pint-sized scavengers spend their lives traversing the desert looking for any sort of scraps of metal or droids they can sell. So what’s the secret to their infectious energy, despite spending a lifetime under the heat of two suns on the harsh desert planet? Meet The Jawa Roast, a Tatooine twist on Sammy’s Red Head Roast, this spiked coffee cocktail is the perfect drink to give you the energy to “crawl” out of the house and have a good time. We guarantee that you’ll be sucking this one up to the last drop like a Jawa who just found droids wandering the desert. A photo of the Jawa Roast aka Read Head Roast is available for download here.

    The Jawa Roast aka Red Head Roast

    1 ½ ounces Sammy’s Redhead Rum

    ½ ounce Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur

    2 ½ ounces iced coffee

    ½ ounce simple syrup

    ¾ ounce cream

    Garnish: freshly grated nutmeg and cinnamon

    Preparation: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the rum, liquor, iced coffee, simple syrup, and cream. Shake well and strain into a chilled rocks glass. Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg and cinnamon.

    Kyber Crystal Jello Shots

    Since ancient Jedi times, young padawans have traveled the galaxy in search of Kyber Crystals, the small force-attuned gemstones give lightsabers, the Jedi’s weapon of choice, their power and distinctive color. Lucky for you, they can be made right in your kitchen, no galaxy-wide quest required! These colorful gems are perfect for the on-the-go Jedi who may be hiding in the ice-covered caves of Hoth or need something that won’t spill during an attack on the Death Star. Use green lime Jell-O to follow the noble path of the Jedi, or red Sith-strawberry Jell-O to learn the secrets of the dark side. Each of these “crystals” is sure to pack a punch, the force is strong in these ones! A photo of Kyber Crystal Jello shots available for download here.

    Kyber Crystal Jello Shots

    1 package (3 ounces) Jell-O fruit flavor gelatin (lime, strawberry; your choice)

    ⅔ cup boiling water

    ⅔ cup cold water

    ⅔ cup Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum

    Preparation: In a suitable bowl, add the Jell-O gelatin. Add the boiling water and stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved, about 2 minutes. Add the cold water and Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum. Stir well to incorporate. Divide the mixture into mini plastic disposable cups (about 2 ounces each) and refrigerate until firm.

    Jabba The Hutt’s Key Lime Martini

    This green sludge-like drink may at a glance look like something that would be dripping out of the corners of everyone’s favorite intergalactic crime boss’s mouth, however we assure you that this drink is anything but that – this indulgent drink is one fit for a king! If you want to live the Jabba Life, this dessert drink is great for relaxing in a big comfy chair enjoying some premium entertainment such as a Star Wars movie marathon or a secret rancor pit in your living room. A photo of Jabba The Hutt’s Key Lime Martini is available for download here.

    Jabba The Hutt’s Key Lime Martini aka The Key Lime Martini

    ½ ounce of Sammy’s Beach Bar Platinum Rum

    1 ½ ounces of Keke Key Lime Pie Cream Liqueur

    ½ ounce of banana liqueur

    ½ Cocó Lopez Cream of Coconut

    ½ of fresh lime juice

    Rim: honey and crushed graham cracker

    Garnish: fresh lime wheel

    Preparation: Roll the rim of a chilled martini glass in some honey. Then gently roll the honey rim in crushed graham cracker and set the glass aside. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the rum, Keke Key Lime Pie Cream Liqueur, banana liqueur, cream of coconut and lime juice. Shake well and strain into a prepared glass. Garnish with a fresh lime wheel and serve.

  • food,  Los Angeles,  San Diego

    The Rise of Etto Pasta: Exploring the Versatility and Flavor of this Italian Classic

    Not all pasta is created equal. Pasta is simple and unpretentious. Yet it is also complex, nutritious, and distinct. It is amazing how something so simple can be incredibly diverse, endlessly creative, and good for you. Craft pasta like the best ones made in Italy are rare and delicious in texture, aroma and flavor. Etto brings the best of pasta to California using the best American ingredients and the best Italian craft pasta equipment, technique and style.

    Etto Pasta is a brand of artisanal pasta that is known for its high-quality ingredients, traditional techniques, and unique shapes. Founded in 2012 by chef and restaurateur Liz Matthews, Etto Pasta is based in the UK and uses only the finest, carefully-sourced ingredients, including Italian semolina flour and free-range eggs.

    Pasta is a daily food of Italy. However, its appearance across the country is far from monotonous. The great variety of pasta shapes accentuate Italy’s regional differences and draw attention to the distinctions that define local identities. Each dish can tell a story of a place, its history, its people, and a way of life. (Not to mention that Italy ranks as the healthiest nation in the world*.) Italians eat pasta by the etto (100 grams or about ¼ pound). An etto represents a sensible portion of pasta for one person, as either a primi or as part of a balanced meal.

    Etto is family-owned, sources quality ingredients, and values our customers and community. Our pasta factory is located in Tin City, an industrial area comprised of small artisanal winemakers, breweries, a creamery, distillery and more. This creative hub is in Paso Robles, California.

    You can also visit the Etto Marketplace located in Tin City. Here you will find fresh Etto pasta, local and imported specialty foods, Italian wines from Giornata  and much more!

    Etto Pasta offers a wide range of pasta shapes, from classic option like Creste di Gallo to more unusual shapes like Casarecce, Conchigliette and Figaro. Each shape is crafted using time-honored methods and the best ingredients, resulting in a pasta that is both flavorful and texturally superior to mass-produced options. Etto Pasta also offers a range of sauces and pestos to complement their pasta, making it easy to create delicious and authentic Italian meals at home.

    Herbed Chicken and Tomato Pasta with Etto Pasta

     Recipe for Rosemary and Thyme Chicken Thighs with Sliced Tomato and Etto Pasta

    Ingredients:

    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
    • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
    • 2 large tomatoes, sliced
    • 1/2 pound Etto Pasta (penne, fusilli or spaghetti)
    • Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
    2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
    3. Heat olive oil and butter in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
    4. Add minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    5. Arrange sliced tomatoes around the chicken thighs in the skillet.
    6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are tender.
    7. While the chicken is baking, cook the Etto Pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
    8. Serve the Rosemary and Thyme Chicken Thighs with Sliced Tomato and Etto Pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).

    Enjoy your delicious and flavorful meal featuring Etto Pasta!

  • Fashion,  Gift Guide,  Las Vegas,  Los Angeles,  New York,  San Diego

    Elevate Mom’s Wardrobe with Joseph Katz’s Chic Bag Selection for Mother’s Day

    Mother’s Day is a special occasion to celebrate and appreciate the most important woman in your life – your mother. If you’re looking for a special gift that she will love, consider the Joseph Katz bag collection. Here are two options to consider:

    If your mom is someone who likes to keep it simple and elegant, then a classic tote bag from Joseph Katz is a great option. The Power collection offers a range of colors to choose from, including neutrals like black, and sand color or brighter options like pink or orange. The tote bags are made from high-quality leather, and feature a spacious interior with plenty of room for all her essentials. Infuse every day with Beverly Hills style when your mom carries the luxe leather Power satchel from celebrity stylist Joseph Katz’s signature collection. The three inner compartments and four pockets keep everything she needs at the finger tips.

    Power Item Details
    • 12″ x 4.75″ x 9″
    • Handle: Drop 5″
    • Removable, adjustable shoulder strap: with a 26″ to 28″ strap drop.
    • Tab lock closure, double handles, adjustable removable strap, outside slip pocket, metal logo, four feet.
    • Lined interior, front wall inner slip pocket, back wall slip pocket and back wall.
    • Zip pocket.
    • Three inner compartments: one with a double-zipper closure.

    Included
    • Logo designed dust cover bag.
    • Heavy cotton dust bag.
    • Crossbody strap.

    If your mom is always on the go, then a crossbody bag from Joseph Katz Brave Collection is a practical yet stylish gift. These bags feature an adjustable strap, allowing her to wear it comfortably over her shoulder or across her body. The collection offers a range of colors to choose from, so you can find the perfect one to suit your mom’s needs.

    Joseph Katz is a designer brand that offers a range of high-quality products, including handbags, clutches, and purses. Their collections often feature a mix of classic and contemporary designs, with a focus on quality materials and attention to detail. Their Crossbody Bag collection is designed for women who are always on the go and need a practical yet stylish bag to keep their essentials organized.

    The Crossbody Bag from the Brave collection by Joseph Katz is a versatile and stylish bag that is perfect for everyday use. This bag features a sleek and minimalist design, with a fold-over flap to keep your belongings secure. It also features a beautiful chain and leather shoulder strap that can be worn across the body for hands-free convenience.

    The Brave Crossbody Bag is made from high-quality materials, and comes in a range of colors to suit your personal style. The bag has multiple compartments and pockets, making it easy to organize your essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, and makeup. Bring Beverly Hills style to your days and nights when you carry the quilted leather Brave crossbody from celebrity stylist Joseph Katz’s signature collection. The chain and leather shoulder strap can be worn either single or double-looped, giving you lots of styling options.

    Brave Item Details
    • Measures approximately 10″ x 2.75″ x 5.5″ with a 12″ to 22″ strap drop.
    • Flap lock closure, metal chain and leather strap, outside slip pocketwith hidden magnetic closure, metal logo.

    Included
    • Logo designed dust cover bag.
    • heavy cotton dust bag.

    Composition
    • 100% cowhide leather.
    • Silver hardware.
    • Signature jacquard logo lining

    Overall, the Brave Crossbody Bag from Joseph Katz is a great choice for women who want a practical yet stylish bag that can be worn every day. It is versatile, durable, and designed with attention to detail, making it a great addition to any wardrobe.

    GET TO KNOW JOE
    “Over the years, Joseph Katz has worked with top clients from around the world. Shopping the boutiques of Beverly Hills, He introduced them to the most sought after luxury brands and styled them from head to toe from every day looks to special events and galas, weddings you name it. Throughout his career he has been able to see and touch some of the most beautiful well-crafted clothing, shoes and bags. As Joseph Katz styled clients, he saw how powerful it was to accessorize with a great handbag and he thought this is what he wants to bring to everyone.

    One accessory that can make or break an outfit is the handbag. The great thing about a handbag is that it fits everyone, no matter your size.
    Joseph Katz  collection of bags are constructed to last, have timeless style and are absolutely worth the investment. These are designs that will work with everything. He sets out to capture all of the elements and details of the fabulous bags that he selected from Rodeo Drive when creating the Joseph Katz Collection. But he didn’t stop there. He wanted his bags to not only look good but inspire you as you wear them. He chose a word as he created each one that will inspire you, every day no matter what the day brings you.”

    The bags can be purchase at QVC or on Joseph Katz site www.Josephkatzcollection.com with a 10% discount code. When you use the discount link the discount shows up in the checkout window.

     

  • Art,  San Diego

    ArtReach San Diego Open House This Friday – Preview the art on bicycles one week early!

    Preview the bicycles one week early!

    ArtReach San Diego is hosting an open house at ArtReach HQ! Stop by our office in Bankers Hill for a VIP preview of the bicycles up close one week before ArtWalk. You won’t want to miss this chance to talk to the team, and learn more about the auction and about ArtReach. And don’t worry – if you see something you like, you can place a bid with ArtReach right then and there.

    🏠Open House at ArtReach HQ
    Friday, April 21st from 4-7 pm
    2399 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
    *snacks and drinks will be provided*

    💻Online Auction
    Bid now through April 30th
    🔗link in bio: charityauction.bid/artreachauction

    ↪Want to skip the line? Find your favorite artists’ work and “buy it now!”

    ↪Not in the market for a bicycle or bicycle accessories? Donate to help ArtReach reach the goal of $21,000 by April 30th

    🎨Mission Fed ArtWalk
    Saturday, April 29th and Sunday, April 30th
    All art will be on display in the Piazza della Famiglia in Little Italy

    Thanks to Electra Bicycle for supporting the ArtReach mission and partnering with them for this fundraiser! Proceeds from this Charity Art Auction directly benefit ArtReach free programs for youth that do not otherwise have access to visual arts opportunities. Thank you for your support!

    Lulu Yueming Qu’s artwork on Electra Bicycle‘s helmet and bell.

  • Eco,  Fashion,  Gift Guide,  Los Angeles,  New York,  San Diego

    Feel Good Inside and Out with Kindly Underwear’s Sustainable and Ethical Products

    If you’re in the market for sustainable and ethical underwear, look no further than Kindly Yours Women’s Cotton Hipster Panties. Made from organic cotton and produced with fair labor practices, these panties are not only comfortable but also good for the environment and the people who make them. I recently tried out a pair and was impressed with the softness and breathability of the cotton, as well as the comfortable waistband and tagless design. But what really sets Kindly Yours apart is its commitment to sustainability and ethics, making them a great choice for anyone who wants to feel good about their purchases.

    At the heart of the brand’s ethos is the belief that fashion should not come at the cost of the environment or human rights. With this in mind, Kindly Yours uses only organic cotton in its products. Organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides and fertilizers, which is not only better for the planet but also for the health of the people who grow and harvest it.

    In addition to using sustainable materials, Kindly Yours also takes care to ensure that its products are made in a way that is ethical and fair to all involved. The brand works with factories that pay fair wages, provide safe working conditions, and prioritize the well-being of their employees. By prioritizing ethical production, Kindly Yours is able to ensure that its products are not only good for the planet but also good for the people who make them.

    As a customer who has tried Kindly Yours Women’s Cotton Hipster Panties, I have to say that I am impressed. The cotton material is incredibly soft and breathable, making them ideal for all-day wear. I also appreciate that they are tagless and feature a comfortable waistband that stays in place without digging in.

    But what really stands out to me about Kindly Yours’ hipster panties is the brand’s commitment to sustainability and ethical production practices. Knowing that my underwear was made in a way that is good for people as well as the planet makes me feel even better.

    In conclusion, Kindly Yours Women’s Cotton Hipster Panties are a comfortable and eco-friendly choice for anyone who wants to feel good inside and out. The brand’s commitment to sustainability and ethical production practices sets them apart in the fashion industry, and I would highly recommend their products to anyone looking for high-quality, comfortable, and ethically-made underwear.