Cocktail Corner: Bottomless Bellini Brunch at Belmond El Encanto

Posted on September 20, 2014 by lesliedinaberg

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg

It’s tough to improve upon the spectacular ocean and mountain views from the terrace at Belmond El Encanto, but the amazing Bottomless Bellini Brunch—available Sundays from 11 a.m.–2 p.m.—adds a delicious bubbly kick to what is already an embarrassment of riches. This brunch is a perfect way to treat that special someone to a meal they won’t forget.

The Bottomless Bellini and a view from the Terrace at Belmond El Encanto. Photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

The Bellini, a sparkling beverage of Prosecco and peach puree or nectar, was first created at Belmond El Encanto’s sister property Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice, Italy, and Chef Leo Andres Ayala does the tradition proud.

The brunch includes a nice assortment of locally-sourced dishes, starting with an array of appetizers served family style, including Ahi Tuna Salad, Chilled Prawns, Smoked Duck, Smoked Salmon, Marinated Berries and Charred Vegetable Salad. The meal is luxurious on its own, but its even more of a treat to have the dishes brought to you at the table, rather than having to serve yourself.

Family style appetizers at Belmond El Encanto. Photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

The feast seems to be never-ending as the Belllinis continue to flow and you choose from a tasty list of entree selections, including Brioche French Toast, Eggs Benedict, Steak and Eggs, Buttermilk Pancakes, Lobster Fritatta, Duck Confit Chilaquiles, Santa Barbara Seafood Cioppino, Roasted Salmon, Crispy Seared Branzino, Veal Scallopini, Roasted Jidori Chicken Breast, Seared Rare Ahi Tuna Sandwich or a Classic Cobb Salad. It’s hard to go wrong!

Eggs Benedict at Belmond El Encanto. Photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

We hope you saved room for something sweet. Complementing the meal, guests are invited to The Wine Room where a gorgeous selection of house-made desserts from Pastry Chef Aaron Lesch awaits. Don’t worry … you can pick more than one!

The Bellini Brunch is $75 per adult and $35 per child (12 years and younger). Belmond El Encanto is located at 800 Alvarado Pl. For more information or reservations call 805/770-3530 or visit elencanto.com.

Cheers!

Click here for more cocktail corner columns.

Leslie Dinaberg

When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons on September 19, 2014.

New Website Focuses on Local Artists

Posted on September 18, 2014 by lesliedinaberg

Santa Barbara Artist Directory, courtesy photo

“People need to know where to buy and find local art,” says Peter Otte, a Santa Barbara-based web developer who recently launched a new online directory to do just that.

The SB Artist Directory was specifically designed to help artists based in Santa Barbara County reach a wider audience by creating a simple profile and create artist portfolios, Otte explains.

“Santa Barbara has a lot of really talented artists working in the shadows. Our goal is to help artists build a better online presence,” he says.

Web Developer Peter Otte, courtesy photo

For a mere $26 annual membership fee, artists may include a short profile, links to their social media pages and may upload as many images as they wish. The site is not juried. The only requirement is that the artist resides within Santa Barbara County lines.

Paintings, drawings, photography, and sculpture are all acceptable art forms. Otte says his intent is not to evaluate the work but simply to put it out there to provide greater exposure for the artists. Among the first group of artists to sign on for the site are several well known creatives, including Nancy Gifford, David J. Diamant and Kerrie Kilpatrick Weinberg.

“Having many artists friends in the community, we became aware of the need to help artists promote themselves on the web. Artists’ minds are made for creating, not so much for promoting themselves, especially online. We decided to create an online directory where any artist from Santa Barbara County can be featured at a very low cost,” Otte says.

In addition, the site also posts local art-related news and events free of charge. For more information visit http://www.sbartistdirectory.com/.

—Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons on September 17, 2014.

Style File: Five New Skin Care Habits for Fall

Posted on September 17, 2014 by lesliedinaberg

Courtesy Sebamed

Changing seasons call for a few change-ups in our beauty routine. Dermatologist Dr. Marnie Nussbaum recommends incorporating these five habits into your daily ritual for a smooth, soft transition into fall.

1. Switch Cleansers.

Start with the basics – If you’ve been using a shine control cleanser (or skating by with a bar of soap), make the switch to a more hydrating, soap-free cleanser. Coconut oil-based cleansers like Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam are one of the most effective moisturizing and anti-aging ingredients, and act as antibacterial active ingredient that removes bacteria to prevent the formation of new pimples. (SebamedUSA.com)

Editor’s Note: Another one to try is “Kate Middleton’s favorite cleanser,” Karin Herzog Professional Cleansing, a gentle cleansing gel and makeup remover in one.

2. Don’t Stop Using Sunscreen.

Don’t be fooled by lower temperatures. Cover exposed skin with sunscreen, just as you would in the summer. UV rays are just as strong when hitting the slopes or walking in the rain as they are on the beach. Applying sunscreen daily is the easiest way to prevent sun damage, protect your skin, and not to mention – look younger. Try using products that offer Broad-Spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection, and have a SPF of 30 or greater.

Editor’s Note: Check out this post on Double Duty Sunscreen Solutions.

3. Move to a Heavier Night Cream.

Recover and restore your skin after a long summer with a heavier night cream like Sebamed Anti-Dry Night Intensive Cream which works to protect, smooth, calm and regenerate the skin without clogging pores. The intensive and rich properties of this Night Cream stimulate the skin’s own renewal process overnight for fresher skin by morning. The pH value of 5.5 promotes the skin’s own acid protective barrier against dehydration and irritants. (SebamedUSA.com)

Editor’s Note: Here’s a Total Beauty survey of the 16 Best Night Creams.

4. Exfoliate Flaky Skin.

In the summer, we don’t need to exfoliate often. As temperatures cool, practice exfoliating once a week to keep dry flaky skin from shedding around the nose and chin. Select a soft facial scrub (those made with rice bran are less rough) that also uses naturally hydrating ingredients like avocado, coconut or almond oils to avoid excessive dryness and irritation. Immediately following, moisturize with balancing night cream.

Editor’s Note: Exfoliation is key for so many skin issues. We recently tried, and really liked, the Suki Resurfacing Enzyme Peel. This resurfacing masque is effective from the inside out (it treats the source, not just the symptoms) and the outside in (it treats the surface signs like redness, acne, dryness, etc.). (sukiskincare.com)

Courtesy Uni K Wax Center

5. Maximize Moisture in the Shower.

Our skin loses water to radiator heat and dry air all day long. Replenish and balance moisture content by using a hydrating body wash and lotion every time you shower, like Sebamed Anti-Dry Derma-Soft Wash Emulsion and Hydrating Body Lotion. To prevent dry, crackly, irritated skin, pat (don’t rub) skin dry after a hot shower and apply a moisturizer within 3 minutes to seal in hydration. (SebamedUSA.com)

Editor’s Note: We also like Uni K’s Ultimate Balm made with Green Tea and Cucumber to restore hydration to thirsty skin. It’s infused with cucumbers, a natural hydrator and green tea, chock full of antioxidants to ward off environmental toxins, as well as rice extracts to help retain the skin retain moisture. (UniKWax.com)

—Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons on September 16, 2014.

Andrea Weir’s new novel “A Foolish Consistency”

Posted on September 15, 2014 by lesliedinaberg

“A Foolish Consistency” by Andrea Weir, will be available Sept. 15.

Longtime local journalist Andrea Weir Estrada has written her first novel, A Foolish Consistency, crafting a rich, compelling love story that is anything but foolish.

Weir’s complex romance for literate grown ups tells the story of long ago lovers Callie Winwood and Will Tremaine, whose chance meeting in an emergency room re-ignites a 25-year-old passion.

Of course, no one makes the journey into their 40s without carrying along some baggage, and these two are no exception. Will has devoted himself to his two young children, whose mother died tragically two years earlier. Callie’s divorce has left her vulnerable as well.

Their journey toward one another is anything but simple. Just when it seems like they’ll finally earn a happily ever after, they are forced to split when a scandal threatens to unravel their respective families.

Andrea Weir, photo by Spencer Bruttig

A Foolish Consistency is a passionate love story with depth, exploring the emotional damage that grief can cause, as well as the importance of forgiveness, and, ultimately, the joy of redemption.

The book will be available at local stores on September 15. Weir will be signing books at Tecolote Book Shop (1470 E. Valley Rd., Montecito) on September 22 from 5:30-7 p.m.

For more information visit www.andrea-weir.com.

—Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons on September 12, 2014.

Friendship Center’s 5th Annual Wine Down

Posted on September 15, 2014 by lesliedinaberg

Courtesy Friendship Center

Friendship Center, the south coast’s only nonprofit, fully licensed adult day services program, will have its 5^th Annual Wine Down, Friday, September 19 from 4-7 p.m.

This casual yet festive event will feature local vintners pouring their wines for tasting, delicious Asian-inspired hors d’oeuvres by Spices N Rice and live music by Montecito Jazz Project. Held al fresco in the courtyard of the lovely center in Montecito, this Friday after-work gathering will give guests a chance to enjoy a lovely late-summer evening and “wine down“ from the cares of the week. A small silent auction will offer carefully selected gift baskets featuring high-quality wine and wine-related items.

Participating wineries include: Andrew Murray Vineyards, Buttonwood Farm Winery & Vineyard, Consilience & Tre Anelli, Cottonwood Canyon Winery, Demetria, Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard, Pali Wine Co., Palmina, Santa Barbara Winery, Tower 15 Winery, and Vinemark Cellars. Beer from Surf Brewery will also be featured.

The Friendship Center is located at 89 Eucalyptus Lane in Montecito. To purchase tickets click here.

—Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons on September 13, 2014.

Cocktail Corner: Vintage American Cocktails (and Beer!) at American Ale

Posted on September 12, 2014 by lesliedinaberg

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg

Burgers and beer are a classic pairing for good reason, but even if you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous in your glass, American Ale (14 E. Cota St.) is a great place for drinks.

The name alone was enough to sell me on the Hummingbird Feeder. Made with De Luze Alfred Cognac, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, Cointreau Noir, Carpano Antica Sweet Vermouth, Cherry Heering, Orange Bitters and Orange Zest, this sweet yet sophisticated concoction is the perfect treat to get your buzz on.

Also worth trying is the Cat Daddy’s Daiquiri, made with CatDaddy Carolina Moonshine, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, Fresh Ruby Grapefruit and Fresh Lime Juice. Delicious and refreshing!

The Mary Pickford is another equally fun libation. Made with Montanya Platino Colorado Rum, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, Fresh Pineapple Juice, Trader Vic’s Grenadine and Peychaud’s Bitters, this cocktail’s so tasty it’s hard to stay silent about it.

On the slightly more traditional side, American Ale offers The Original Sazerac, a nod to the famous Trader Vic’s with the Trader Victoriaia, The Very Old Fashioned, The Manhattan, Tennessee Sweet Tea (made with Everclear!), an American Mule, a Luxardo Cognac Old Fashioned and a minty fresh Kentucky Derby Julep.

There’s no shortage of fresh ingredients at the bar at American Ale. Photo courtesy https://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Ale/172053636278700

This is all in addition to a yummy menu of signature burgers (all fresh ground), like the amazing and decadent Make’N Bacon Burger (with maple bacon jam, bacon, Italian Bacon, Canadian Bacon and American cheese) and the awesomely adventurous PB & J Burger (with crispy bacon, chunky peanut butter and grape jelly). American Ale also has healthier fare like an Argula Chicken Burger and a Lentil Burger, as well as a great Chopped Ice House Salad and a few different soups.

Some tasty moonshine from American Ale, photo by Leslie Dinaberg

In addition to the vintage cocktails, American Ale has a variety of moonshine offerings, as well as a rotating assortment of 24 American craft beers and ciders on draft. For example, on the taps at press time are: Allagash Odyssey, a dark wheat, wood-aged beer from Portland, ME; Stone IPA, Stone Reason Be Damned Abbey Ale Aged In Red Wine Barrels, Stone Unapologetic IPA and the big, boozy Arrogant Bastard Ale, from Stone Brewing Co. in Escondido; Avery Ellie’s Brown Ale from Boulder, CO; Ballast Point Sculpin IPA from San Diego; the fruity and flavorful Figueroa Mountain – Lizards Mouth, the big dark Figueroa Mountain Grendel and the Figueroa Mountain Saison from right here in Buellton.

Other nearly local selections are the Firestone Walker 805 Blonde Ale and Firestone Walker Agrestic American Wild Red Sour out of Paso Robles.

In addition, American Ale now offers: Fox Barrel Blackberry Pear , a fruit cider from Colfax, CA; Great Divide Oatmeal Yeti Imperial Stout from Denver, CO; another local beer, Island King Tide , and imperial IPA from Island Brewing Company in Carpinteria; Knee Deep Hopotoligist IPA from Knee Deep Brewing in Lincoln, CA; Lightning Thunderweizen a Weizen/Weissbier out of Poway; and the Belgian dark strong ale Lost Abbey Cuvee De Tomme from San Marcos, CA.

Also on tap are: Modern Times Black House , an oatmeal stout made in San Diego; Oskar Blues Dale’s Pale Ale from Lyons, CO; Port Mongo IPA from San Marcos, CA; Saint Archer White Ale out of San Diego; and Strand Beach House Amber straight outa Torrance!

Cheers!

Click here for more cocktail corner columns.

Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons on September 12, 2014.

Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café’s Bien Nacido Winemakers’ Dinner

Posted on September 12, 2014 by lesliedinaberg

Los Olivos Cafe Chef Chef Joslyn, courtesy photo

Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café (2879 Grand Ave., Los Olivos) hosts its first-ever “Rock Steady” Bien Nacido Winemakers’ Dinner on September 18 at 6 p.m. Three of Santa Barbara County’s winemaking elite—Jim Clendenen of Au Bon Climat, Bob Lindquist of Qupe and Trey Fletcher of Bien Nacido Estate—will be pouring their specially paired Bien Nacido vineyard-designate wines with a six-course meal created by Café Chef Chris Joslyn.

The six-course gourmet menu (subject to change based upon new inspirations) includes an appetizer of Scallop & Lobster Terrine, Trout Roe and Herb Salad; a delicious blend of Heirloom Tomatoes, Cucumber, Ricotta Salata and Beet Gazpacho; a course with Seared Barramundi, Potato-Cauliflower Risotto and Leek Coulis; entrees of Seared Duck Breast, Farro, Duck Confit, Red Cabbage & Cranberry Duck Jus and Roasted Filet Mignon, “Sheppard’s Pie” Braised Short Ribs, Crisp Mashed Potatoes, Broccolini topped with Bordelaise followed by a Fresh Artisan Cheese course accompanied by Pistachio-Currant Paste, Fruits and Crostini.

Bien Nacido vineyard traces its roots back to the year 1837 when a Spanish land grant of some two square leagues was made to Tomas Olivera by Juan Bautista Alvarado, then Governor of Alta California, covering nearly 9,000 acres ranging upward to the San Rafael Mountains from the Santa Maria Mesa, which bordered the Sisquoc and Cuyama Rivers.

“We will learn the soul of the soil of Bien Nacido vineyard from the men who have captured it in their bottles,” remarked Los Olivos Wine Merchant wine director and sommelier, Matt Williams, “Our chef Chris Joslyn has created an amazing menu to complement this first-ever event.”

For reservations call 805/688-7265 ext. 203 or click here.

—Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons on September 11, 2014.

Don’t Miss MichaelKate Interiors & Art Gallery’s Big Art Party

Posted on September 12, 2014 by lesliedinaberg

Untitled, by Dug Uyesaka, courtesy MichaelKate Interiors & Art Gallery

Brad Nack, one of the key figures in the Funk Zone art scene, is moving on from his position as curator at MichaelKate Interiors and Art Gallery to become Executive Director of The Santa Barbara Arts Fund, right across the street. In typical Nack fashion, he’s going out with a splash.

Ian Putnam, “The reconstruction,” courtesy MichaelKate Interiors & Art Gallery

The gallery is throwing a big art party this Friday night, September 12, from 5-8 p.m., featuring DJ Zac Pike and moderator Ted Mills, along with an impressive line-up of artists whose work the gallery has shown during Nack’s tenure.

The event is free and the artists include:

“BARCELONA,” by Christine Lyones, courtesy MichaelKate Interiors & Art Gallery

Carly Andrews

Christine Lyons

“Bird on a Field of Mixed Greens” by Philip Koplin, courtesy MichaelKate Interiors & Art Gallery

Brad Nack

Tony Askew

Dan Levin

Monika Molnar-Metzenthin

Wayne Hoffman and more!

MichaelKate Interiors & Art Gallery is located at 132 Santa Barbara St., 805/963-1411.

—Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons on September 11, 2014.

Maxine Helfman at Wall Space Gallery

Posted on September 12, 2014 by lesliedinaberg

Maxine Helfman at Wall Space Gallery

Wall Space Gallery features the first solo exhibition of artist Maxine Helfman this week, including two special events: an Artist Reception on Friday September 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. and an Artist Talk – During the Funk Zone Art Walk Saturday September 13, from 2 to 3.30 p.m. The show is titled “Confounding Expectation.”

“In today’s climate of changing cultural and societal shifts, expected norms and ideals are all turned on their head with this extensive body of work challenging us to expand our boundaries of understanding,” says gallery owner Crista Dix. “Maxine Helfman’s work reinterprets classic portraiture, traditional ideas of esthetics and substance. In a collision of the unexpected, these images require the viewer to linger a little longer, to contemplate the ideas behind the work more deeply and question our sensibilities and presumptions of beauty, of our convictions and assumptions of gender, race and class.”

The exhibit, on view through October 26, showcases four unique series:

–Fabrication discusses gender roles and identity. Boys between the ages of 8-12 wearing dresses, in an open display of their unique connection to the frock of their choice.

–Historical Correction takes classic Flemish Portraits and connects us to race, class and gender.

–Geisha talks of expectation, of subservience, where assumptions are made, questioned and left for us to answer.

-The newest series, Summertime, reminds us of the lush southern landscape through incorporated object, yet her portraits engage us in the power and grace inherent of the women who are comfortable in their skin.

Helfman is self-taught, late bloomer. After spending years as a stylist and art director, Helfman realized her vision by getting behind the camera. She has since been shooting commercially for advertising and editorial clients, while pursuing personal projects. Her work has been recognized in PX3, IPA, Foto DC, Flash Forward Boston, Critical Mass, British Journal of Photography, Photo News, as well as the permanent collection of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and the Museum of Fine Art Houston.

Wall Space Gallery is located at 116 E. Yananoli St. upstairs above AVA Winery.

—Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons on September 11, 2014.

Style File: Affordable Decadence With Gemstone Inspired Beauty for Fall

Posted on September 9, 2014 by lesliedinaberg

Courtesy Jane Iredale

Autumn is the season for freshening your look with updated beauty products. Some of the most exciting ingredients are gemstones and precious metals like diamonds, gold and pearls. Just as these indulgences set off skin’s glow when worn as jewelry, they also add just the right amount of shimmer when used in creams, eye shadows, nail polishes and highlight powders.

Think of it as affordable decadence. Here a few new products to try when you want to feel like a gem :

Diamond Dust, in Golden Shimmer Face & Body Lotion

Diamond Dust is a unique pigment derived from mica that delivers shimmer to the skin. As your summer glow starts to fade, this versatile lotion will warm and smooth the skin for an irresistible golden glow. (janeiredale.com)

Sparkling Nail Powders Set

This limited-edition, numbered set from Dior, sold exclusively at Nordstrom, features two sparkling powders—in black and luminous gold—and a special adhesive base coat. Create a jewel-like manicure, whether applied to one nail as an accent or as a complete manicure. (shop.nordstrom.com)

Courtesy Nordstrom

Gold Leaf, in 24 Karat Gold Dust

For just the right amount of shimmer, Jane Iredale 24 Karat Gold Dust uses 24 Karat gold leaf to lend a delicate highlight to eyelids, cheeks, lips, nails, hair and body in every shade from gold to silver, bronze and rose gold. (janeiredale.com)

Platinum Pigment

Metallic makeup was all over the fashion runways this season. To recreate that look, Mac Cosmetics has a platinum pigment you can use to create a subtle wash of color or a more intense effect for a night on the town. (maccosmetics.com)

Mary Kay Emerald Noir Eye Color Palette

Inspired by the world’s most precious jewels, each palette includes five easy-to-apply buildable shades, from matte to high-shimmer. (marykay.com)

Courtesy Jane Iredale

Pearl, in Limited Edition Celebrate Eye Shadow Trio

For a minimal yet illuminating look, the Jane Iredale Limited Edition Celebrate Eye Trio features mist, a matte pearl shade perfect for a subtle base color. The other colors are port, a shimmery port wine color and toast, a toasted caramel for a complete eye look in one palette. (janeiredale.com)

—Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons on September 8, 2014.

LeslieDinaberg.com

Leslie Dinaberg Editor & Writer

Category Archives: Blog Posts

Cocktail Corner: Bottomless Bellini Brunch at Belmond El Encanto

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg

New Website Focuses on Local Artists

Style File: Five New Skin Care Habits for Fall

Andrea Weir’s new novel “A Foolish Consistency”

Friendship Center’s 5th Annual Wine Down

Cocktail Corner: Vintage American Cocktails (and Beer!) at American Ale

Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café’s Bien Nacido Winemakers’ Dinner

Don’t Miss MichaelKate Interiors & Art Gallery’s Big Art Party

Maxine Helfman at Wall Space Gallery

Style File: Affordable Decadence With Gemstone Inspired Beauty for Fall

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg

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