For the first time, Calistoga Ranch, Solage, and Auberge du Soleil have partnered with Food & Wine Magazine to create ” Best New Chef’s Reunion Weekend.” This event is a first-of-its-kind epicurean event filled with mouthwatering cuisine and incredible wine from the best chefs and vintners in the California region. I was fortunate to be one of the first people to enjoy this unparalleled epicurean experience in Calistoga.
My time at the Best New Chef’s Reunion Weekend started with checking in at the beautiful Calistoga Ranch property. Calistoga Ranch is a spectacular resort rooted in nature. It is tucked away in a private 157-acre canyon ideally located between St. Helena and Calistoga.
At check-in, I was warmly greeted with a crisp glass of local Chardonnay and taken to my well-appointed private cottage. My cottage came outfitted with an outdoor shower, a soaking tub, a private hot tub, a private living room, and a double fireplace. The rooms are modern and filled with everything you could need. I gladly freshened up under the outdoor shower before heading out to my first event.
The first event of the day, Chef Demonstration lunch, was held at Solage, just a short 10-minute drive from Calistoga Ranch. At this event, we had a cooking demonstration with Chef Ravi Kapu of Liholiho. Chef Ravi showed us how to create a salad made with seasonal ingredients, including squash, Brussel sprouts with an Asian inspired pesto. Participants were able to ask questions and get feedback from the chef during this intimate event.
After the lunch I retreated back to Calistoga Ranch for a little R&R starting with a soak in my private hot tub accompanied by a glass of complimentary wine and cheeseboard from in room dining. After some R&R I explored the property via the golf carts, which come with drivers and are available 24 hours a day. I went to the resort hosted wine and cheese hour where I was able to meet and chat with other hotel guests.
I had a lovely dinner at the resort’s private restaurant, The Lakehouse. It’s a wonderful restaurant overlooking the oak grove and the lake. This is a great option without having to leave the property.
After a good night’s sleep, I was ready for the second day of festival activities. I borrowed one of the Mercedes Benz house cars for the morning to explore Calistoga before heading out for a luncheon at Solage. Maria Sinskey collaborated with Chef Gustavo Rios, executive chef at Solbar. We started the lunch in the garden with beautiful table settings and amazing passed hors d’oeuvres. Maria was a great host and had the guests laughing and celebrating the fantastic lunch. The lunch consisted of unique seasonal dishes paired with Robert Sinskey wines. Guests were sent home with home-made apple cakes and coffee.
Before heading to the final event of the weekend I enjoyed time in the main sun-drenched pool at Calistoga Ranch. The last event, dinner at the newly renovated Louis Martini Winery. This was an elegant dinner hosted by Michelin starred chef Daniel Patterson of Coi restaurant. It was a pleasure to share the table with accomplished winemakers, chefs, and culinary experts, and foodies come together in one breathtaking setting. Some of the dishes presented were glazed veal sweetbreads, braised lamb with truffles, wild mushroom porridge, and a delectable curry and peanut butter dessert as a sweet ending to the wonderful weekend.
This was a great event that I recommend to all. If you are planning on attending next year I suggest you stay at Solage of Calistoga Ranch for easy access to all of the festivities.
Make sure to follow Auberge Resorts to stay up to date on their events and happening.
Last month I attended GATHER, an epicurean and wellness festival set on Isola Delle Rose, a private island that is home to the JW Marriott in Venice. For the second year, illy coffee was one of the sponsors of GATHER, and they invited me to be a guest of this fabulous event.
Each morning of the four-day festival my, day was started by sipping on a perfectly crafted espresso at the illy Café in the main festival square. The illy Café was a hot-spot for festival attendees and the visiting chefs, which included Michelin-starred and James Beard Award-winning chefs. Attendees gathered in the lounge area, and conversations were started around a cup of espresso.
At the festival, guests could select intimate cooking classes with renowned chefs like Giada DiLaurentis, Norman Love, and Ciccio Sultano. Experiential dinners gave a chance for attendees to dress up and dine on excellent pasta, wine, and even Thai food. It was at these dinners where I met some fantastic people, with whom I still keep in touch. It feels good to be around people who share your passions.
During the day, there were other food and wellness driven activities such as bocce and bubbles. If you needed a break from the food, JW Marriott set up “Secret Spots” on the island where you could rest on a hammock and enjoy views of Venice. After resting in the Secret Spot, I participated in a sound bath at JW Mindfulness House.
During the festival, I attended the illy Master Barista Series, led by Giorgio Milos. Milos spoke about the different coffee varieties and compared coffee to wine. Just like wine, coffee has different taste and flavor profiles depending on the coffee variety and terroir. Milos also taught us how to brew the perfect pour-over at home during the master class.
When it comes to coffee, our horizons as a culture are finally expanding beyond the popular sugary drinks. A worldliness has taken hold, and it’s illy’s mission to educate the world about coffee culture. Based on this insight and illycaffè’s 80 years of experience in producing coffee, the company established the Università del Caffè in 1999. The UdC is a centre of excellence that promotes a culture of quality coffee all over the world through training, research and innovation.
If you can’t fly to Venice, you can sign up for classes at the University of Coffee at illy’s flagship San Francisco location at 220 Montgomery Street.
Make sure to follow illy on their social channels to keep up to date with more events like this as well as new illy Art Collection Cups, unique coffee recipes and more.
Palo Alto Hotels never conveyed luxury to me until I had a chance to visit the newly remodeled Nobu Hotel in Palo Alto. I fell in love with the minimal Japanese design and the attentiveness from the friendly staff. The hotel is ideally situated in downtown Palo Alto, with lots of restaurants and shopping within walking distance. The notable Nobu Restaurant is conveniently downstairs.
This 73-room Palo Alto hotel is the perfect home base if you are visiting Silicon Valley. The hotel amenities reflect the tech-mind of Silicon Valley with seamless integrations Alexa, with multiple voice commands including light and shade control, 82- inch television. My favorite is the state of the art TOTO washlet bidet.
One of my favorite amenities of the hotel was the Gym, I rarely use hotel gyms, but the gym at Nobu provides Peloton bikes with access to hundreds on online interactive classes, it was hard to leave the gym with this feature
We are all familiar with Nobu, the restaurant and I loved that all you had to do was take the elevator down and you have access to some seriously delicious eats. One perk of being a Nobu hotel guest is that you get priority reservations at the restaurant.
Beyond the beautiful decor and amenities, it is the people of Nobu that makes this such a special place. You feel at home with the warm hospitality from all of the staff. The staff recommended many wonderful things to do in the area. I particularly loved a book store one block down from the hotel.
If visiting the Bay Area, I would surely return to this special hotel Palo Alto Hotel
Please note that the hotel is still undergoing construction and most rooms are expected to be completed soon.
The very first time I made cauliflower pizza it was ad-hoc style using everything I had available in my kitchen. Fast-forward 4 months later and I embraced high-protein cauliflower pizza that tastes amazing and is guiltless.
I discovered ISOPURE® WHEY PROTEIN ISOLATE UNFLAVORED This is a premium protein that’s true to its name. ISOPURE® Unflavored Whey Protein Isolate contains 25 grams of 100% pure whey protein isolate per scoop, stripped of fat, carbs, fillers, sugars, and lactose. All with no added colors, flavors or sweeteners. It’s perfect for mixing into your favorite flavored beverages (hot or cold), soups, sauces and baked goods recipes.
I experimented with different recipes but ultimately LOVED it in my high protein cauliflower pizza recipe. I hope you love this recipe as much as I do.
PROTEIN POWDER CAULIFLOWER PIZZA
Prep time: 12 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2-4
Ingredients:
1/2 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
1 egg
Cut cauliflower and pulse in a food processor until it becomes rice-like
Microwave the grated cauliflower in a bowl for 5-8 minutes depending on your microwave. No need to add water. After microwaving, transfer cauliflower to a fine mesh strainer and drain thoroughly, gently pressing out excess water. Once drained, transfer cauliflower to a clean dish towel and wrapped the sides around the cauliflower while gently pressing out excess water. This drying process is essential!
Preheat oven to 375 and spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray
In a medium bowl, combine all crust ingredients making sure everything is well mixed, place your mixture on the baking sheet and form a round pizza shape.
Bake your dough at 375 for 15 minutes.
Remove from oven. Add sauce and your favorite toppings on the crust
Set oven to broil cook for additional 3-5 minutes
I would love to see your photos if you recreate the recipe, make sure to tag me.
Bon Appetit!!!
xo,
Teresa
This is a sponsored blog post, but all opinions are my own
Lexus LS, LC & LX, California Photo: James Lipman / jameslipman.com
In Japan, there is a deep-rooted culture called omotenashi, used to describe what the Japanese believe to be a unique approach to hospitality, meaning to look after guests wholeheartedly. Lexus values omotenashi as a means of ensuring that their vehicles exceed expectations. The aim is to create a refined luxury interior which places customers at the center of the Lexus experience.
I was lucky enough to experience omotenashi first hand while driving the all-New Lexus LC 500 (part of Lexus’ Flagship collection) through Napa Valley for three days. Shady Oaks and world-class vineyards set the stage for the perfect driving experience. The Napa Valley roadways dip and curve along the beautiful foothills and offer gorgeous views of the vineyard and mountains, making the LC’s engine come to life. Napa Valley is the perfect place to experience the LC 500 in all its glory. I drove the LC500 in mostly Sports+ mode and loved hearing the roar from the 471 HP, V8 engine.
Now, on to the interior! Stepping into the LC 500 makes you feel like you’ve checked into a five-star luxury resort. Lexus has crafted a sophisticated cabin with obsessive attention to detail, such as hand-stitched features that are almost too beautiful to touch. Some of my favorite cabin features are the glass roof, ambient lighting, and the heated leather-trimmed steering wheel.
I can’t talk about Lexus and not touch on the safety features of LC 500. It comes with standard safety features including eight airbag system, pre-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, front and rear parking sensors, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and a backup camera.
While driving this beauty, I noticed just how much it commands attention and sparks conversation with those who see it. Wherever it was parked, a cluster of bystanders gathered to admire and ask me questions about it. I drive a lot every day and sometimes dread driving, but I didn’t want to stop driving the LC 500. I can’t think of another car I’d rather take a road trip in. This is the car you want to buy to get the emotional response you would expect from your dream car. My experience with the LC 500 defined omotenashi for me, leaving me with a lingering feeling of leisure and luxury.
Visit your local Lexus Dealer to take a test drive the LC 500 or the other vehicles in their Flagship line. If you already own a Lexus, I would love to hear your thoughts and see your photos.
Lexus LC 500
LC 500 FEATURES AT A GLANCE:
354HORSEPOWER
10-SPEEDMULTISTAGE TRANSMISSION
35HWY MPG RATING
V8ENGINE
4.7-SECOND 0-TO-60 TIME
NAVIGATION SYSTEM WITH 10.3-INCH SPLIT SCREEN MULTIMEDIA DISPLAY
Provides immediate, simultaneous access to audio or climate controls and various systems including Navigation. It displays the current speed limit and can automatically identify nearby gas stations if you begin to run low on fuel.
ILLUMINATED ENTRY SYSTEM
As you approach, exterior lights illuminate to help prevent you from stepping in puddles or other potential hazards. And, to welcome you inside, the interior features white LED illumination.
STANDARD ON: LC 500, LC 500h
12-SPEAKER LEXUS PREMIUM SOUND SYSTEM
This 12-speaker Lexus Premium Sound System offers an immersive surround-sound experience courtesy of optimized speaker placement throughout the cabin, including a front-center speaker and a woofer in the rear.
BACKUP CAMERA
The available backup camera uses an inconspicuous lens mounted above the license plate to enable the driver to view more objects in the vehicle’s path when driving in reverse.
STANDARD ON: LC 500, LC 500h
10-AIRBAG SYSTEM
The front passenger seat is designed to detect whether the seat is occupied by an adult or a child, or is vacant. In case the system detects a child or empty passenger seat, the system prevents the passenger’s front, side and knee airbags from being deployed. The front passenger’s airbag features two chambers, creating an indentation in the center impact area that helps to provide occupant protection in a severe frontal collision.
PRE-COLLISION SYSTEM* WITH PEDESTRIAN DETECTION
The Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection is engineered to detect vehicles in the path of your Lexus under certain conditions. Should the system detect a pedestrian or determine a frontal collision is imminent, it’s designed to automatically prepare Brake Assist* for increased brake force and is even designed to automatically begin braking before impact.
STANDARD ON: LC 500, LC 500h
HEATED LEATHER-TRIMMED STEERING WHEEL
Combining exquisite craftsmanship with exceptional comfort, the interior features a leather-trimmed shift knob and steering wheel trimmed in hand-selected leather. For added indulgence, the steering wheel also includes a heating element that covers the entire diameter of the leather-trimmed steering wheel, warming the driver’s hands regardless of their placement. The system also continually monitors and adjusts the heating level to maintain a set temperature.
THE FIRST-EVER LEXUS MULTISTAGE HYBRID (LC 500h Model )
Experience the breakthrough that recasts the entire concept of hybrid performance. Beyond efficient, the LC 500h is our most responsive, fastest and highest-performance hybrid yet. This is innovation you can feel.
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LEXUS FLAGSHIP EXPERIENCE IN NAPA VALLEY
Discover the finest hotels, restaurants, and wineries to re-create my tour through the Napa Valley.
I recently had the pleasure of staying at The Wigwam Resort, located near Phoenix Arizona. The Wigwam was exactly what I needed to escape the cold and wind in San Francisco. With a quick 2 hour flight, it’s the perfect getaway to a desert oasis. It is conveniently located near the Phoenix airport and is perfect for a family getaway or staycation.
I was lucky enough to visit during their 100-year anniversary of this long-standing Arizona Historic Landmark. My first impression of the resort was to say WOW. The resort is huge but manages to provide an intimate and charming feel. The Wigwam is a true gem.
With so many activities on the 40 acre property and happy faces in the resort, you won’t want to leave. Here are some of the highlight and favorite activities during my stay.
POOLS
The Oasis pool
Balcony overlooking Oasis Pool
Oasis Pool
Oasis Pool
Perfect for a morning swim, sunbathing or taking some time to simply relax. During the summer months, it becomes an adult-only pool with a bar and DJ included. My room overlooked the Oasis pool and I loved having my morning coffee on the balcony overlooking the Oasis pool.
Oasis Pool
The Tower Pool
The tower pool is a family friendly pool with a kids fun zone and two waterslides. You can also book private cabanas, where you will have fruit, drinks and other delicious food options. We enjoyed the cabanas and feasted on piña coladas, fresh fruit, and margaritas. Christine was a fabulous cabana host and we could tell how much she was loved by the locals visiting the pool.
Spa Pool
This was my favorite pool, it was small and intimate and perfect for a post or pre-massage swim and relaxation. It’s an adult only pool which I appreciated.
SPA
If you’re looking to feel relaxed and pampered make sure to book a treatment at the beautiful Spa at the Wigwam. I was treated to a fantastic facial which made my skin feel new again. I think I fell asleep in the VERY comfortable spa bed (I’ve been raving about this bed). When visiting the spa you get full use of the amenities, including, the steam room, relaxation room, the private clothing optional jacuzzi and the adult only pool. You can also enjoy lunch by the pool at the spa. I could spend all day here!
GOLF
The golf course at The Wigwam is Arizona’s only 54 hole championship golf course. It has state of the art golf club rental. The course itself is beautiful, with a lot of trees for shade and glistening ponds. This golf course also offers FOOT GOLF.
I am not a golfer but I am so happy that I discovered foot gold at the Wigwam, it’s SO MUCH FUN. You can rent all the gear at the golf shop. I would go back just to play it.
DINING
As you may know I am a big foodie so naturally, I am very discerning when it comes to food. We dined at multiple restaurants within the Wigwam and everything I had was delicious. These are some of the dining options at the Wigwam.
Red’s Bar and Grill
The avocado hummus was amazing
Red’s is a casual family-friendly restaurant with a nice patio that overlooks the golf course. They have an ingenious kid’s room to keep the kids happy and entertained.
Wigwam Bar
The wigwam bar is centrally located near the lobby and is where I had my coffee and delicious breakfast ( the avocado bake is a must-try). The European vibes on the patio are perfect for enjoying live music and enjoying a glass of wine.
Litchfield’s
Litchfield’s Restaurant
Where to begin, this was my favorite restaurant and enjoyed the most delicious farm:table dinner here. Litchfield’s pays a tribute to the local farming community by sourcing only the best and freshest ingredients. It was a treat to see the chefs cook over an open fire. I wanted everything on the menu but ordered the seabass and lamb chops, which were the best lamb chops I’ve had. The drinks are also outstanding. This is the perfect place for a special occasion.
Litchfield’s Restaurant
Litchfield’s Patio
Litchfield’s Restaurant
Litchfield’s Restaurant
Litchfield’s Patio
Chef plating lamb chops
Wood fired roasted Lamb chops
Wood fired roasted Lamb chops
Chef plating lamb chops
GARDENS
From the palm trees to the cacti gardens, if you are a nature lover you will fall in love with this place. I couldn’t go from one place to another at the Wigwam without stopping and smelling the roses (literally). The gardens are beautifully maintained and there are a lot see. I took an afternoon and did a self-guided tour of the property’s wonderful plant life.
I had an amazing getaway at the Wigwam and made many memories that I will cherish forever. If you want to visit during the Centennial Celebration click here to get some amazing discounts and packages.
The Wigwam 300 East Wigwam Blvd. Litchfield Park, Arizona 85340 Phone: 623.935.3811
Waterfront boutique hotel in downtown San Francisco. Location is central to fisherman’s wharf and walking distance to a lot of visitor attractions. perfect for family, couples of business travel. The hotel has modern decor and feels fun and hip. I
I needed time away from reality and checked in for a memorable staycation. Can’t wait to go back
Nested at the top of its own private road in North Lake Tahoe, the Ritz-Carlton feels like you’ve been transported to a castle in the Alps. Ritz- Carlton is the best place to stay if you want to re-charge over a long weekend or take a full week of skiing and frolicking in the snow.
I was lucky enough to visit The Ritz after a strong storm left fresh powder in the area. From the moment we drove up to the front, from the time we checked out, their staff was phenomenal. Friendly, informative, & detail-oriented.
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With endless activities on the property you never have to leave the property, so I leave you with my :
7 Must- Do’s at the Ritz Carlton- Lake Tahoe
1. Snowboarding lessons
I am a novice when it comes to winter sports, so getting out of my comfort zone any signing up for a snowboarding class what nerve wrecking to say the least. All I could imagine was falling over and over. I pushed through my fears and signed up for the private classes at the Burton Academy. The entire process was easy and convenient. A day before my class I got fitted for my snowboard boot and helmet at True North.
The day of the class my instructor was waiting for me to take me to the Burton Academy via a snowmobile. The instructor was VERY patient with me I fell about 100 times and he would not let me give up. I ended the lesson feeling proud of myself and with 1000% more snowboarding knowledge than when I began. THANK goodness for the magic carpet which made going back up the bunny slopes a breeze.
2. Apres Ski, at the Living Room
Nothing better after a long day on the slopes than to relax with friends, delicious bites and exquisite drinks. The Living Room at the lobby level of the Ritz offers a relaxed place to enjoy the warmth of the fireplaces, the sweeping views and delicious food and drinks.
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3. Dinner at Manzanita Bar
Top notch dinner service in an upscale setting. We ordered family style and portions were generous and beautifully presented. Go in there before your reservation to enjoy a cocktail at the bar.
4. Marshmology
Bring out the kids or bring out the kid in you to the Ritz’s Marshology, a fun hands-on experience where you get to roast marshmallows on a stick and get sticky while devouring your creations. The program takes place nightly by the fire pits and free for all Ritz Carlton guests.
5. Lake Club
The stunning lakeside property is only a year old and is opened year round. In the winter for small private events, and in the summer for a fun vacation house vibe. During the summer expect to enjoy water sports, BBQ drinks and a lot of relaxation. The sunsets from the club are some of the most beautiful I’ve seen in Lake Tahoe.
lake house terrace
lake house terrace
Ritz lake house
ritz lake house
ritz lake house
ritz lake house
6. Gondola Ride
Make sure to take the free ride on the gondolas that connect the Ritz to the village. The view on the gondolas is breathtaking so get your cameras and phones ready to snap the perfect scenic photo. The village offers shopping and some additional dining options.
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7. Spa
The perfect way to rejuvenate yourself after a long day on the slopes, the Spa offers many treatments and massage that make you feel pampered. Make sure to arrive earlier than your appointment to take advantage of the spa amenities, such as their eucalyptus steam room and heated lap pool with incredible. view of the slopes. I opted for the 1 hr relaxation massage. My massage therapist, Michael was great and would highly recommend him.
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There are way too many amenities at the Ritz to even mention, but whatever you decide to do I am sure you will have a great time, even if it’s just relaxing and taking in the views. Everyone from the valets to the masseuse and housekeeper is genuinely dedicated to making your stay unforgettable. I can’t wait to visit again!!
mesh strainer and drain thoroughly, gently pressing out excess water. Once drained, transfer cauliflower to a clean dish towel and wrapped the sides around the cauliflower while gently pressing out excess water. This drying process is essential!
