Please The Palate |

Acabar Los Angeles

Growing up in Los Angeles, Dar Maghreb was LA's premier Moroccan restaurant. I remember my parents going there on special occasions. I even remember going with them once when I was a tween and being mesmerized by the decor, the belly dancers, sitting on pillows and eating with my hands. But after 40 years, the restaurant closed and a new restaurant opened in its place last year - Acabar.

Over the past year, I have seen Acabar at various events around Los Angeles, including LA Food and Wine and LA Times Taste. At these events, Chef de Cuisine Kevin Luzande was behind the table serving up the amazingly delicious crispy lamb buns. Every time I tried one of these, I told myself that I needed to go to Acabar.

15 December, 2014

The Gin Joint, Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina is known for its history, well-preserved architecture and southern politeness. Condé Nast Traveler readers have voted Charleston the No. 1 U.S. City and the #2 in the World by Condé Nast Traveler 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards. There is a lot to see in this charming city. So, when I had only one night there, I wanted to seek out the best cocktails and found The Gin Joint.

As a Gin drinker, the name in itself drew me in. Featuring pre-Prohibition drink recipes, as well as some newer creations, The Gin Joint offers more than gin drinks, of course. But, we stuck with gin.

11 December, 2014

Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink Miami

It's been a few years since I was last in Miami and the last time I was there, I wasn't blown away by the food scene. South Beach seemed more preoccupied with the perception of a foodie scene, rather than the substance of it. But, on a recent trip to Miami for work, I went outside South Beach where I found delicious cuisine at Michael's Genuine Food & Drink. Michael's Genuine Food & Drink, located in the Design District in Miami, is owned by James Beard Award-winning chef/owner Michael Schwartz. The casual bistro focuses on fresh, local ingredients. The cocktails and wine program are fresh and creative. After a delicious Hemmingway Daiquiri, I was impressed by the eclectic wine list that included Greek wines like the Assyrtiko that we started with and the Arbois Trousseau that we finished with.

08 December, 2014