MAY EVENTS in Boston!

Hello Friends!
Here is big list of fun springtime events happening in Boston! Maybe i can put my dancing shoes on again before my baby bump gets too big??! LOL! Don't know how long I'll last...but a girl can always try! I so miss being able to see my feet! :P There are plenty of ideas to go around, and of course, I can always EAT! See below and let me know if anything looks good to you! xo mel


CHECK OUT THE ARTS -- OUTDOORS!

SoWa Open Market...and the SoWa Art Walk both open this weekend...
Join us as we kick off our 7th season at the SoWa Open Market! Saturday and Sunday, May 15 & 16, 10AM -5PM.
This is our biggest season opener to date, featuring 140 indie designers, crafters, artists, musicians, farmers and much more. We've moved down the block to a new location.
Now at the humongous parking lot at 460 Harrison Ave at the end of Thayer Street.
The market will be open every Sunday through October 31, 2010, excluding 3 major holiday weekends (May 30, July 4, and September 5).
Official Site: http://www.sowaopenmarket.com


SoWa Sundays
Here you will find all the details for fun arty and foodie events!
www.sowasundays.com


SoWa Art Walk
www.sowaartwalk.com
The SoWa Art Walk takes place in late May each year and is a weekend-long standing invitation to visit the artists in their studios. This year, the SoWa Art Walk will occur on Saturday and Sunday May 15+16, 2010 from 11:00am to 6:00pm. Creative stores, cafes, boutiques and some of the city’s finest restaurants take part in the SoWa Art Walk by opening their doors all weekend, hosting artists who display on their walls and offering special event discounts.


Sel de la Terre in Back Bay

Here are some fun events i found at Sel de la Terre in Back Bay, connected to the Mandarin Oriental...Sel de la Terre offers the rustic country fare of Provence & surrounding Southern France. Fresh local bounty is the motivation behind our creative, yet rustic menu, and the warm and comfortable atmosphere of Sel de la Terre makes it the ideal place to enjoy a meal no matter the occasion.

NOTE: While i'm current not in the market for any of the big dinner/wine pairing events (being prego, I can't enjoy the wine!) but the Mini Burger Mondays sounds good! Visit site for more details: http://www.seldelaterre.com

Triple crown Parties
We're celebrating a month of racing with a trio of soirees in our downstairs bar. One drink minimum to bet on a horse. Prizes are based on odds - win one of our award-winning bar bites, including arancinis, sandwiches or a famed SDLT burger!
May 1 - Kentucky Derby; 6-7pm
May 15 - Preakness Stakes; 6-7pm
June 5 - The Belmont Stakes; 5-6:30pm

Mini Burger Mondays!
$2 sliders every Monday from 5-7pm! Click here to view the menu
Cookbook Dinner Series-On the last Sunday of every month, unwind from the weekend with Chef DiBiccari as he cooks up dishes from our chefs' most influential culinary artists from around the world. Enjoy four courses with wine pairings and light commentary for $45 per person. 7pm
{ 05-30 } Wine Mondays: Simple Wine Pairings with Seasonal Menus by Frank McClelland
{ 06-27 } Bouchon by Thomas Keller
{ 07-25 } The Fat Duck by Heston Blumenthal
{ 08-29 } Momofuku by David Chang

Wine Wednesdays
Every Wednesday at 7pm.
4 courses - 4 wines - $44 Each Wednesday, guests are treated to a selection of wines inspired by changing seasons, wine regions or varietals paired with a four-course tasting menu composed of Chef DiBiccari's rustic French cuisine. Guests are seated at large tables that foster lively conversation, while Wine Director Erik Johnson leads an engaging, informal talk touching on the highlights of the evening's wines.


GET UP and DANCE!

Wolfgang, our resident DJ and man about the South End sent along these awesome dance events. I LOVE that these events are FREE! what could be better than that?!

... a few fun events coming up with DJ Francesco and friends spinning this month. hope you made it to the premiere of heartbeats last Friday? Great party at 28degrees! If you missed it - here is your chance to make up for it :) Ciao, Wolf


From DJ Francesco Spenga:

Friends, Night Crawlers, Insomniacs, Dancers, DJs, Househeads....Lots happening in May. This month I'm throwing all of my regular parties, so hopefully I may see some of those who I haven't seen in a while :) I don't have all the flyers done yet, but doesn't mean we can't start spreading the word.

1) Friday May 14th, Heartbeats at 28 Degrees, One Appleton St, Boston (South End), 9pm-1am
**No Cover, No List

The opening night of Heartbeats in April was euphoric, and I'm still feeling it. Seems everything just came together that night and it's definitely one of my most memorable parties to date. You never know when you'll have one of those types of nights, but youjust learn to enjoy them once you realize they're unfolding in front of you. If the next one has half the vibe of the first, it will still be a killer party.

This night is a little different in that I can take a break from house and play a bit of funk, soul, Latin, Italian, Brazilian, and yes, even some Serbian Gypsy music...but inevitably the house music tugs at me like a crying child and I have to give in.


2) Friday May 21st, UNITY at The Good Life, 28 Kingston St, Boston, 9pm-2am
**No Cover, No List

My partner in crime Enrique Florendo and I will be spinning all night, after DJ Do JaJa (Milan Vatovec, NYC) kicks off the night around 9. Come early to chill out and here his sound (more classic funk and soul than house, if any). Then Enrique and I tag team on the decks from about 11 til 2. I love this night in that anything goes, both on the turntables and in the realm of dance moves. Some of you people are amazing the way you move. It's inspring to see from our perspective and once we get to that level in the night the symbiosis between DJ and dancer is evident.
**No Cover - No List - No Dress Code - No Dancer Left Behind - Just Deep House Grooves From Our Soul to Yours

3) Thursday May 27th, Baci & Abbracci Returns to Lucca Back Bay, 116 Huntington St, Boston, 9pm-2am, **No cover
It's been a while since Jay and I have thrown the B&A party, but it's on again on Thursday the 27th, just before Memorial Day Weekend. I'm trying to convince Lucca Back Bay to throw in some strawberries for the night - who doesn't like free strawberries? They go well dipped in house music :)
**No Cover, No List, No Dress Code, 9-2

Meatpacking District – Manhattan, NYC

A Great Neighborhood to Meet, Greet & Eat Meat!
When visiting NYC I love to go to the Meatpacking District in Manhattan... it's got this great vibe, with remnants of cobblestone streets, refurbished warehouses, and restaurants for everyone, from high-end French cuisine to BBQ from the Dirty South. For better or for worse, many high end retail stores (Barney’s, Matthew Williamson, Hugo Boss, Ports 1961) are taking over the "MePa" area (terrible abbreviation!), and rents are growing too high for some long-time bar owners. Stay tuned as the district transforms from slightly gritty to mostly posh. Although I have to say, I love a little mix of both. Here are my favorites:

Spice Market – Jean-Georges Vongerichten is the king of East meets West cuisine. He blends classic French cooking with Asian influences so perfectly, everything he touches turns to gold. You may have seen him as a judge on this season's Top Chef...good episode! I love Spice Market for many reasons, its stunning décor, ultra cool lounge and amazing cocktails. The space is huge with lots of cavernous rooms…great for people watching! Get a reservation at 9 or 10 pm, enjoy a pineapple mojito and pan-asian delights from one of the world’s great chefs. (Fun fact: My friend Jennifer and I went here one night for mojitos and met legendary E Street Band rocker “Little Steven” Van Zandt AKA Silvio Dante from The Sopranos. He was such a trip!) Reservations required. 403 W. 13th StreetNew York, NY 10014~ (212) 675-2322

Pastis is a hip and popular French bistro, with a lively atmosphere and hearty fare. It’s a Meat Packing cornerstone, a busy place for locals, tourists, and celebrity guests alike who flock to Pastis to enjoy a glass of red wine or a Le Sazerac cocktail. Go for the traditional steak frites, sea scallops Provencal, or a hearty Croque-Monsieur. Great for people watching and feeling the vibrant energy of the City. Reservations required.
9 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014 ~ (212) 929-4844

The Hog Pit - If you are tired of the long lines, pretentious doormen and Sex and the City wannabes, head on over to The Hog Pit in the Meat Packing District. My friends and I wandered into this roadhouse and right up to the bar for some tequila shots and cheap beer. Bikers, Willie Nelson (yes, he’s a fan) and everyone in between have a great time here. The BBQ ribs, pulled pork and mini corn dogs are finger-licking good, and the low prices can’t be beat. Besides, you might catch Keanu Reeves or Johnny Knoxville playing pool, so check it out. (NOTE: Sadly, due to increased rent, The Hog Pit will be closing on Jan. 1, 2009, so go now to say goodbye.)
22 Ninth Avenue at 13th Street, New York, New York 10014 ~ (212) 604-0092

Markt – Having lived in Amsterdam, I had the opportunity to visit Belgium a few times. So, finding Markt while wandering from the Meat Packing district to Chelsea was great luck. It takes me back to the lively grand cafes of Brussels or Antwerp. I recommend sitting at the bar, ordering an icy cold Hoegaarden white beer, tomato soup, steamed mussels -- offered 6 different ways, and a side of crispy Belgian frites with mayo. Prost! (Cheers!) And, it is even open for breakfast. 676 Sixth Avenue, NY, NY ~ (212) 727-3314

Question: Has anyone been to 5 Ninth ?? I’ve heard it's a cool place that is located in an unmarked rowhouse…it's hip, serving American-Asian fusion in a rustic atmosphere. Many say it a great brunch spot. And a romantic dinner spot at night serving red snapper, chicken and short ribs in the Asian style. Many people recommend hitting the upstairs bar as it has a cool scene in the Meatpacking District, for a “Gansevoort Fizz” with Jamaican run, Drambuie, and lemon juice. In the warm weather there is a sizable garden/deck for dining. 5 Ninth Ave., New York, NY, 10014 nr. Gansevoort St. 212-929-9460

Happy Thanksgiving - Gobble Gobble!

As a Boston native, I thought I would share some ideas for Thanksgiving in my beloved home state of Massachusetts, and beyond. Happy Thanksgiving!

Plimouth Plantation: You just can't get any more "Thanksgiving" than Plymouth, MA! Why not take a lovely autumn drive to see where the the Pilgrims and Native Americans shared their very first Thanksgiving dinner. They ate turkey, potatoes, squash, corn, and even seafood and lobster at this first of many Thanksgiving meals. You can even make reservations to eat your turkey dinner at Plimouth Plantation! (One of these days we've got to do that...I hear you have to reserve months in advance though.) Visit the authentic village and Wampanoag Home Site to see traditional Native American Wampanoag and Colonial Englishmen and women "actors" living as they did back in the 17th century. A wonderful, historical place for adults and children of all ages.

Cook some great Thanksgiving recipes: I posted a few recipes earlier, but I suggest you go to Epicurious.com to find all the best recipes from Bon Appetit, Gourmet and many others.

Go out for Dinner: Not in the mood to cook this year? I don't blame you! Visit OpenTable.com to find restaurants hosting seatings on Thanksgiving Day!

Volunteer in a Soup Kitchen: While many of us are warm and comfortable at home eating turkey, sadly, there are many people who go without. Volunteer serving dinner at Rosie's Place or the Pine Street Inn. Or, help packing and preparing meals for those who are sick or hungry.

Buy a Pie for Charity: One of my favorite charitable organizations is Community Servings in Jamaica Plain, which delivers weekly meals to those suffering from AIDS or other life-threatening diseases. Every year their "Pie in the Sky" program sells pies online via their donated from hundreds of restaurants, bakeries and hotel to generate funds for the program. I have helped behind the scenes putting together boxes and delivering pies with this group for many years. In addition, you can contact them to bring a group of friends or co-workers to lend a hand during the week or on weekends to prepare and package meals. It is a great way to give back to the community.

Watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade! Always a tradition in our house, watching those gigantic floats and balloons in the sky coming down Broadway in New York City. My favorites include Snoopy, Tom the Turkey and of course, Santa Claus!

Go see a movie: Every Thanksgiving, great movies come out. I am looking forward to the vampire book turned movie "Twilight" and "Australia" with Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman. Come Christmas time, we can't wait to see "Marley & Me" starring Jennifer Aniston, Owen Wilson and the beloved yellow lab Marley. If you love dogs, you must read the book and see this movie!

Go Shopping! Shopaholics know that "Black Friday" is the kick-off for the holiday shopping season. If you are a bargain hunter and thrive on chaotic department stores and long lines, go for it! If you fear the mall (like I do!), then stay away on Friday, November 28th! You have been warned!

The Liberty Hotel - Escape to Boston's Newest Hotel

The Liberty Hotel is Boston’s newest luxury boutique hotel which opened its doors in the fall of 2007. The space occupies what was once the historic Charles Street Jail, built in 1851, and is a prime example of “Boston Granite Style” of architecture. I'm an events planner for a large Boston financial services company, and am in the midst of planning our annual two-day team conference at The Liberty Hotel, so I’m pleased to be able to share my review. Interestingly, my paternal grandfather worked as a deputy sheriff at the jail and my dad remembers going to visit his father at work as a young boy and being jokingly locked in a cell as a reminder to behave…or else!

As Boston has grown in popularity as a destination for some of Hollywood’s most popular films, The Liberty Hotel has become the hotel of choice for many of Hollywood’s A-list celebrities. Recent guests have included Meg Ryan and her daughter who stayed here during the filming of “The Women” and Morgan Freeman, who ate quietly each night in CLINK while in town filming “The Lonely Maiden”. The lobby is truly grand, formerly the "The Yard" where inmates worked out or socialized. As soon you ride up the escalator, you gaze up to see a gigantic cathedral ceiling with a multi-leveled catwalk and hanging wrought iron chandeliers. The walls are partially covered in rich floral wallpaper while the rest of the lobby is exposed brick. The guest rooms are decorated with subtle shades of tan and gray, the bathrooms are very Zen and luxurious. Every room is outfitted with cutting edge technology from ordering room service to web access, and is considered to be the most technologically advanced hotel in Boston. Overnight rates can run upwards of $475-675 night, so be sure to bring your platinum card (or a wealthy relative!)

CLINK is the hotel's restaurant located in the main lobby with tables nestled between original jail cells. Menu items include a fresh selection of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, a nod to Buzzy’s famous roast beef sandwich, warm lobster roll, grilled chicken salad, pan seared sea scallops, and short ribs.

In spring '08, celebrity chef Lydia Shire opened the modern Italian concept, Scampo. The decor is handsome and cool, with exposed brick, a great rectangular bar covered in copper and a huge outdoor patio. Her modern Italian fare is delicious, inventive, rustic food. My favorites include mozzarella with peach & pistachio pesto, beef carpaccio, spaghetti bolognese, white clam and bacon pizza fired in a brick oven, fried calamari, tagliata of prime sirloin, and a ricotta-parsley tortellaci (tortellini). The bartenders and waitstaff are professional, friendly and attentive. The wine and cocktail selection is great...be sure to order a robust Italian red wine or the house Bellini with peach nectar. Scampo is also a great place for a private party or corporate event...the service and food are top notch, and you will feel like a celebrity yourself! Scampo is a great spot for a lunch meeting, dinner with friends, or an after work cocktail. Buon appetito!

The Liberty is the happening place to be any night of the week, but especially Thursday through Saturday nights, with lines wrapping around the building to get into hotspot Alibi or the lobby bar. Guests vie for a chance to get past the velvet ropes and into the much-hyped lobby bar scene, complete with the Veuve Clicquot “La Grande Dame Bar.” Alibi is the cavernous bar located in the former “drunk tank” of the jail, appropriately decorated with infamous mug shots of Mick Jagger, Hugh Grant, Frank Sinatra, and Paris Hilton, to name a few. Light bar fare is served, and the drink list is unusual and pricey. Furthering the "Hollywood Hipster” vibe, Paris herself stayed here in February '08 after receiving her award from the Harvard Lampoon. So, if feel like getting “locked up” (without the criminal record) and are looking for an “escape,” The Liberty Hotel is the place for you.