This month officially marks the two year anniversary of  Rich and I moving  to Austin from New York City. Since arriving in Austin, we have moved apartments three times, I created and opened Alexandra’s Cookie Dreams (with much of RB’s support), we’re about to have a baby girl, and we have tasted Texas life- literally!  As newbies to Texas, we wanted to experience the culture and take advantage of everything Austin and Texas offers.  We indulged in food festivals, enjoyed music and film festivals, cheered at high school football games to feel like extras on “Friday Night Lights”, danced at rodeos cowboy hats and all, and fearlessly ate and drank a lot. I feel fairly confident in saying we have tried almost every restaurant in a 30 mile radius from downtown Austin.  Clearly you can see where our priorities lie. It is well known that Austin is an incredible place to live and recently touted by Forbes as “the most relaxed” place to reside, it’s also a fabulous place to visit. We have had many friends and family visit us and everyone lets loose like they are on spring break. I thought it would be fun to put together a list of our favorite food spots in and near Austin to be used as a light guide for locals and visitors but mostly to let me relive our best moments here. As always, I encourage your feedback and suggestions.

Food

Best Sushi: Musashino Sushi Dokoro - hands down my favorite restaurant in Austin! I think the quality of the fish rivals the best sushi in the country, pretty amazing for a land-locked state. To pass your “waiting for a table time”  since they don’t take reservations and it’s always busy, you can go upstairs and order a cocktail, I love their Lychee Martini. Once at your table,  I suggest skipping the rolls and going right for the sushi. Order the seared no-vein tuna, spicy lobster, scallop, Unagi (eel), really anything that catches your eye. The rice is even exceptionally delicious, sweet and light. Also for a starter don’t miss the U Zaki (seared eel skewers).  If you don’t believe me, check out the book Sushi Economy by Sasha Issenberg  which devotes a whole chapter to the glory of Musashino.

Best BBQ: Ok so I know this is a touchy and controversial topic here in TX so I thought I would break it down by type of meat and bring in my meat-loving husband to fill in this category.

RB says ….

Brisket: Salt Lick: The Carne Negra “dark meat”. This is the burnt, sweet, non-fatty ends of the brisket that is cut off before they serve the regular brisket. When we go, we ask specifically for an entire plate of just the “burn ends”. Sometimes we are met with a raised eyebrow from our server, since this special cut is usually saved for the employees but stand strong, it’s worth it.

Chicken: Black’s Barbeque in Lockhardt. Juicy, crispy, and smoked -sweet perfection!

Sausage: Meyers and Southside Market: both located about a 45 minute drive from downtown Austin in Elgin, Texas. Enjoy the beef sausage and garlic pork sausage.

Ribs: Sam’s BBQ in Austin. You can’t get more authentic plus they’re open late-night. Smitty’s Market in Lockhardt, also don’t miss their Jalapeno Jack cheese squares and saltines.

Mexican : El Borrego De Oro: unpretentious, authentic, inexpensive and satisfying. (I couldn’t find a website for them so I linked to a great review in the Austin Chronicle by Mick Vann in 2005). If your looking for atmosphere, Fonda San Miquel is an old Austin standby open since 1975. It’s where RB and I first learned about Cielo tequila, and actually finished out their supply (over several visits!), not sure why they haven’t reordered? Also Fonda offers a festive Sunday brunch, the perfect send off your out-of-town guests.

Tex-Mex: This is a hard one for me to judge, so many great places; El Chile, Maudie’s Cafe, Chuy’s. Even the worst Tex-Mex in Austin is better then the Tex-Mex in NYC, so I’m not the most critical judge in this category.

Pizza: Home Slice: And this is coming from a New Yorker! It’s as close as I can get to my hometown favorite. Crust has a good crunch, sauce is flavorful and the cheese isn’t too greasy. I suggest ordering your pie well done. Their Greek salad and house red wine is also a nice way to start off. Be prepared to wait awhile for a table since this place is always crowded, sometimes you can grab a seat at the bar or pre-order for take out.

Burger (red meat): Casino El Camino and Houston’s Restaurant. (The Houston’s in Austin is actually locally and individually owned, go know!) I have yet to have a less than overwhelmingly satisfying experience eating the burgers at both these places. My only suggestion is asking for a “dry bun” meaning no butter to avoid any sogginess in the bread.

Turkey Burger: Galaxy Cafe: the burger is juicy, flavorful and not greasy- perfect!

Chinese: Din Ho Chinese BBQ: Seriously the best Wonton Soup I have ever had. Each wonton is like a juicy dumpling waiting to explode in your mouth. We usually eat one there (portions are family style) and bring an extra home.  I also suggest the BBQ Pork and the Roast Duck. It’s BYOB (I love BYOB!) so you can pick up some beer or sake from the market next door to complete the meal.

Italian: Vespaio: Order the Tartare Di Tonno as a starter (huge portion) and Spaghetti Pomodoro E Melanzane for an entree. Rich and I love a bottle (or two) of the Riesling Loosing Brothers - Alsace (Semi- Sweet) - you won’t be disappointed.

Sandwiches: Another category that I’m leaving to Rich. RB’s picks: Fricano’s Deli Catering for the Cajun Turkey with Jalapeno Spread, Hog Island Italian Deli for the Turkey Diablo and Little Deli & Pizzeria for the Chicken Salad Sandwich on Rye Bread.

Exotic Meats: Hudson’s On The Bend: I’m pretty sure when we went there Rich ate an entire farm. Having never seen photos of former President Bush’s Crawford Texas ranch, in my mind this restaurant is what it looks like.

Ice Cream: Blue Bell: Made in Brenham Texas since 1908, this creamy treat is really special. It’s sold all around town in markets and if your heading to Kreutz’s Market in Lockhardt save room for a scoop after your meat-fest.

Drinks

Tequila: Don Julio, Herradura, Cielo or a Mexican Martini from Trudy’s (where this drink is so strong they will only serve you two- now that’s a restaurant with a conscious!

Vodka: Loving Titos Handmade Vodka right now, made here in Austin Texas. You can pretty much order it at any restaurant or bar in Austin and any cool spot nation-wide.

Bloody Mary’s: South Congress Cafe: First they infuse the vodka with peppers and spices and then they add the tomato mix resulting in a full-bodied Mary that’s unique and awesome.

Other Fun Stuff

Atmosphere (good spot to take take out of towners):  Hula Hut: You’ve got the lake, margaritas and complimentary chips and salsa - Austin never looked so good.

Movie Theater: Alamo Drafthouse: Eat, drink and be entertained- is there a better way to spend a couple of hours?

Day Trip: Fredericksburg,  Enchanted Rock (check my blog entry on Fredericksburg and on Enchanted Rock for all the details), Lake Austin Spa with the ladies (amazing fresh guacamole).

And After All That Eating…

Best Workout: Robert Reed’s Cardio Kickboxing Class every week day at noon at Castle Hill Fitness, followed by an invigorating “Berry White” smoothie at Castle Hill Fitness Cafe.

We’re always on the hunt for something delicious, so please email me your thoughts and suggestions for other great spots worth trying. Enjoy!

Sweetly,

Alexandra

Now you can follow ACD on TWITTER:

ACD Partners With Our First Retail Location! You ask, you get! Thank you to everyone who urged ACD to join the local retail market, we listened and we are ecstatic about our new partnership with The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Now you can buy an individual ACD cookie right here in Austin! Here are some pictures from the first opening night party.

We are thrilled to announce that ACD will now be featured in our first and only retail location, at the soon-to-open Austin coffeehouse, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Opening on Saturday, on June 13th, “The Bean” will feature our full line of cookie flavors both in their bakery case and packaged for “to-go”. We couldn’t be more excited! We know you’ll love “The Bean” as much as we do. Be sure to swing by and check out their No Sugar Added Vanilla Ice Blended, at ACD we are addicted!

Just like ACD, supports public education in Austin & NYC through the organization DonorsChoose.org, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is also committed to helping our local Austin community by partnering with local non-profit organizations, Heart Gift and Blue Dog Rescue as it’s official charitable partners.

The Details: The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf 221 S Lamar Austin, TX 78704 (512) 555 -1212 http://www.coffeebeanaustin.com

Opening Saturday June 13th, 2009

Sweetly,

Alexandra

Saturday was one of my most memorable days here in Texas! Not just because of what Rich and I did, but because it gave me such a fabulous appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounds us. By now you may have realized that Rich and I are not the “outdoorsy type”, which for Austin is unheard of.  We don’t run outside, we don’t do all day bike trips and we have never participated in any sort of marathon. However, many times we have happily jumped in the car and driven and hour and half for a good meal at some obscure restaurant we have tracked down on a random food blog. Needless to say, you get our priorities! Well, Saturday expanded our repertoire. We still ate delicious food but we also included a trip to the Enchanted Rock. We even hiked in a thunderstorm, and were given the gift of seeing a rainbow on our way down. It was as if nature knew we better make this special for the city folk! Here are some of the highlights from our day.

Austin Farmer’s Market: Every Saturday right outside our apartment is the Austin Farmer’s Market on 4th Street between San Antonio and Guadalupe. The market is opened from 9 to 1 AM and filled with vendors selling organic vegetables, herbs, fruits, soaps, and meat. You get the idea. All of which are lovely, but we go for one main reason, TacoDeli! If you haven’t eaten a breakfast taco from TacoDeli, you’re missing out. I think they are the best tacos in Austin. Now I know making a statement like this is the equivalent of pasting a photo of my head on a dart board, since Tacos and Texas, is probably one of the most controversial topics in the Austin foodie world, but I like a heated debate. Please feel free to comment below, I love to hear your opinions.  Ok, back to TacoDeli. I crave the steak, onion and roasted green pepper taco and the Thunderheart Bison Buffalo taco, but you really can’t go wrong with any of the choices. They are a bit small, but for around $3.00 a taco why not get two, and don’t forget the many varying degrees of spicy sauces for dipping. If you can’t make it Saturday mornings you can always visit the two TacoDeli locations in Austin.

Enchanted Rock: Since Rich and I moved to Austin a year and half ago, everyone said you must go to the Enchanted Rock. It’s heralded as the most scenic view in Texas, which keep in mind is a very flat state. The top of the rock reaches 425 feet above the surrounding terrain to an elevation of 1,825 above sea level (according to Wikipedia, my go-to-truthful source for everything). The Rock itself is physically like nothing I have ever seen; it’s made of pink granite “pluton”- simply amazing. The trip from downtown Austin to the Rock was estimated to take an 1:40 minutes and off we left on an exceptionally beautiful, sunny, clear, coolish (high of 89 degrees) spring day. We were about 5 minutes from the entrance to the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, and as my mother would say, “the heavens opened up”. It began to thunder and pour, and then came the lightening storm! We literally pulled off the road, and laughed. It had taken us 540 days plus 1:35 minutes to commit to this activity, and I think we were being challenged or punished for not being “out-doorsy” enough. Well challenge on! Once the rain began slightly lighten up, we continued on. Even the park-ranger was confused as she collected our $12.00 entrance fee, “so you still want to come in here?” she asked. Oh we were going in and we were hiking up to the top, even 5 months pregnant, there was no turning back for me at this point. We had something to prove. The hike was amazing, albeit wet but still invigorating, and really made Rich and I appreciate Texas’s natural beauty. The 360-degree view from the top was beautiful, even in the misty air. On our way down, nature awarded us our metal of accomplishment, a rainbow. Thanks nature!

We went back to the car, changed out of our wet clothes, and heading to the Crawish Festival in Fredericksburg. As we exited the state park the sun came out and we rolled down the windows, blasted some “CoffeeHouse” music from Satellite radio and soaked in the moment. About twenty minutes later, we arrived in Fredricksburg, a really cute German town that has managed to maintain it authenticity existing in Texas. (Check out my blog titled, Fall In Fredericksburg, to read about our trip to Fredericksburg last year). The festival was fun: live music, a chili cook-off, all the crawfish and trimmings you could eat, and a perfect end to an awesome day!

Sweetly,

Alexandra

With the warm weather quickly approaching or if you live in Texas, already here, I thought it would be fun to put together a list of my favorite warm weather things. After I wrote my list, I realized a lot of the items were under $25 dollars. Wow, I guess it is easy to save and be happy!

1.Trop 50- the newish OJ by Tropicana, 50 percent less sugar and calories and still 100%  Vitamin C. My sister, Alana, pours the juice into ice trays and freezes them to make bite size pop-sicles. Perfect for cooling down after a good workout.

Cost: $3.67 (57 FL OZ.)

2. Smashbox Blush in Radiance- adds the perfect touch of sweet-summertime glow.

Cost: $24.00

3. The Week - a magazine  published, you got it, weekly, and gives you a snippet of current events in politics, business, entertainment, food, real-estate, and sports throughout the world. Ideal sitting by the pool read.

Cost: $1.19 per issue (25 issues) or subscribe to their free daily newsletter.

4. Kindle- The latest gadget from Amazon. It’s a  wireless reading device that allows you to download  books, newspapers, magazines, and blogs, and even change the font size. We bought one for my mom for Mother’s Day and when she finally takes it out of the box, I bet it will change her world.

Cost: $359.00

5. Anything Frozen, Iced or Blended: Blizzards from Dairy Queen,  Shivers From TCBY,  Ice-Blended drinks from Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.  It’s already 95 degrees here, a girl’s got to cool off!

Cost: Each under $5.00 for a small size

6. NetFliks - Greatest invention since “On Demand” TV. Rent 1-3 movies online, get the DVD’s at home in two days, mail the movie back, repeat process endlessly. I finally got Rich to watch “Say Anything” because I agreed to rent “Rocky” in the same batch. NetFliks knows how to keep couples happy.

Cost: $19.95 per month. New members get a free trial membership.

7. La Roche-Posay- 50+ daily day sun-block for the face. It’s tinted, quick-drying, lightweight and has extreme UVA protection; what else could you want?

Cost: $47.00 (50 ml tube)

8. RichRocks Jewelry- Inexpensive but looks expensive and fabulous, especially the 36″ gold and diamond zirconia necklace perfect for layering over a summer caftan. Check out my rave review of RichRocks from September 2008 on Talk Is Sweet.

Cost: Now on sale for $60.00

9. Family & Friends- Spending extra time with people you love, relaxing, eating, & drinking, and with three long weekends in the summer (Memorial Day, July 4th and Labor Day), it just got easier!

Cost: Priceless

10. Enough about me! What’s your favorite “Warm-Weather Must-Haves”?  I can’t wait to learn what’s on your  “Hot List”! Leave your comments below- thanks!

Sweetly,

Alexandra

Please note that Alexandra’s Cookie Dreams will be closed from Tuesday April 6th until Sunday April 12th. We will re-open on Monday April 13th. Thank you!

I’m thrilled to say that last week my dear friend Lauren Sachs launched her new company and website www.SweetCityCandy.com, selling fresh and delicious retro and traditional bulk candy, chocolate and nuts at wholesale prices nation-wide. I first met Lauren when she was living in Austin, TX.  I had just moved to Austin, and a mutual friend thought we should meet. The first time we hung out, we were walking around town and decided to stop at a cookie shop for a treat. This was before I had created Alexandra’s Cookie Dreams, but always the cookie lover, it seemed like a good idea. Lauren took one look at the sugar cookie topped with multi-colored candy coated chocolate chips, and said, “You can’t get a cookie from here, they use imitation M&M’s!” I was shocked, she was right, and she knew her candy! You see, Lauren grew up in a family in the candy business and from an early age she learned what makes a quality product. Last year Lauren and her husband returned to their roots in NYC, and had a beautiful baby girl, named Ruby, as if life couldn’t get sweeter, Lauren is now using her expertise to personally oversee Sweet City Candy.

Sweet City Candy is perfect for offices, parties, promotions, or if you’re like me, an inexpensive source to keep your candy bowls filled (it’s cheaper than flowers!) Lauren also carries a full line of festive holiday treats, kosher products and even candy supplies so you can make your own sweet gifts. With baseball season upon us, I suggest ordering 5 pounds of these delicious chocolate baseballs which will for sure make game watching and little league practice a lot more fun! Check out her site, you’ll be glad you did!

On Saturday morning at 10:00 AM much to his surprise I asked Rich if he wanted to go to Snow’s BBQ for lunch that day. Well let me clarify, first off Snow’s BBQ is in Lexington Texas about 50 miles from Austin.  They are only open Saturday mornings from 8 AM until they run out of meat, which is usually by 12:00 PM. (Imagine the fabulous marketing game they have going). So when I suggested Snow’s for our Valentine’s Day lunch, I really meant breakfast, since we’d be eating at 11:00 am. In Rich’s eyes, it was most romantic gesture; brisket, sausage and ribs in the morning. Wow, I just earned some serious points. I could probably suggest seeing Confessions of a Shopaholic after with no resistance!

Ok, so now the plan was in place, but the suspense was building. Would we make it in time to Snow’s before the meat ran out and they closed for the week? Rich immediately called Snow’s for today’s estimate on closing time, and to no comfort they said between 11:00 and 12:00. It would be cutting it close, but we took “if you don’t try, you’ll never win” mantra and jumped in the car. The drive itself is an authentic Texas adventure, as you pass lots of dehydrated farms, long-horn cows, horses and even drive through the town of Elgin, known for their sausage. It would be our second back up if Snow’s was closed. Our first back up was Louie Mueller BBQ in Taylor, since we had been to Elgin before. As we turned into Lexington, a very small rural town (population 1100), only minutes away from the much-hyped famous brisket, Rich wanted to call Snow’s for an updated status. Being the gambling woman I am, I asked him to wait, building the suspense and excitement. He agreed and we turned on to Main Street, haphazardly park the car, and ran into Snow’s. Everyone looks up and was kind of confused at our aggression. As Rich looked over at the cutting board and saw mounds of meat, he released a deep sign. We made it in time!

Snow’s BBQ, which opened in 2002, is located in a small house. You enter, on the right is the meat, on the left are the picnic tables, and outside in the back is the smoker. No frills, no Blue Bell ice cream for dessert, no salad bar: it’s authentic and to the point. Snow’s was offering a sweet Valentine’s ”Dinner” Package including all the meats, coleslaw, potato salad, two drinks and two homemade chocolate covered pink treats (not really sure what was on the inside of these, clearly Snow’s is not a dessert spot). I laughed when I saw it was a “Dinner” special since they close before lunchtime. We got the brisket, ribs, sausage, and a half roasted chicken. They offered us white bread and Rich asked for crackers. Crackers are a standard at places like Smitty’s in Lockhart, but I guess Lexington does it differently. The lovely woman told Rich she would give him saltines but she didn’t approve. I respect a woman with principles!

We sat down near a couple from South Padre Island, who had planned their entire President’s Day weekend around coming to Snow’s BBQ (at least a five hour drive), a man who said as a little boy every morning at 3 AM was awoken by the memorable sweet smell of his neighbor’s smoker in action, and jovial man who seemed to know everyone who walked in by name. Clearly this place has heart!

Ok so here’s our food report. Chicken was delicious, tender, juicy, not overly salty or smoky. Really perfect! (Please excuse my un-orthodox technique of eating BBQ with a fork and knife, but the bones have done a number on my teeth, and this is cheaper than orthodonture work). Brisket, honestly not our favorite, kind of fatty and little thick. I would argue that the sweet ”burnt ends” of the brisket at Salt Lick is my standard by which I judge all others. According to Rich the sausage was all right, and same for the ribs. The potato salad was awesome but how could mayonnaise and potatoes not be? The dessert was loving touch but really weird.  I think it is worth the trip once, especially if you have visitors in town, since it less commercialized than Smitty’s or Kreuz but the food wouldn’t bring us back again. We did buy a t-shirt, a tradition that has created an entire drawer of BBQ sleep shirts, and we headed back to Austin to digest. We ended up seeing Frost/Nixon (which is awesome and deserves to win an Oscar) since I’m really saving Confessions of a Shopaholic to see with my friend Jenna. It was a perfect Valentine’s Day and Rich can no longer tell me, “I’m scared of BBQ!” which is his joke since I never suggest to go for BBQ, especially for breakfast !  

Snow’s BBQ
516 Main Street
Lexington, TX 78947
Phone: (979) 773-4640 or (979) 542-8189

What’s your favorite Texas BBQ?

Sweetly,

Alexandra

Thank you to everyone who played the “First Food Love” Contest! It was so fun to read your stories and reminiscence with you.  I also want to thank our “Special Judge”, Mary Feldman (more about Mary below) for picking our winner. Mary placed all the names in a hat and  selected Alex Sehnaoui!

Congratulations Alex! You’ve won 2 Dozen Alexandra’s Cookie Dreams cookie to be gifted to you or to someone else - Enjoy!

I’m thrilled that Mary was willing to give ACD a helping hand! Mary is an exceptional woman who has made a career out of two of my favorite indulgences: food and spa products! Yup! Mary is founder and owner of the exotic aromatherapy bath and beauty product company, Bath Bloomers, and general manager of the ultra-hip and delicious NYC restaurant Allen & Delancey.

Mary founded Bath Bloomers in 1998, * “introducing a scentual line of aromatherapy bath products inspired by bathing and spa rituals from around the globe. To concoct a line like no other, Mary personally researched the pampering rituals of cultures like Turkey, Japan, ancient Greece and Rome. Then she sprinkled in the science of aromatherapy, transforming bottles of product into aromatic spa journeys”. As you can imagine with that much field research, her products are incredible. I luckily get to use them in my bath, courtesy of a generous Ms. Feldman but luckily Bath Bloomers products are sold on their site, www.BathBloomers.com. They are also used in high end, hotels resorts and spa’s, like Ritz Carlton NYC and Four Seasons Philadelphia. I suggest you try the lavender sachet salt, is a relaxing bubbling bath salt - it works for me!

Now onto the food - Allen & Delancey is an gem of a Lower East Side NYC restaurant. Opened in October 2007, it instantly became the ‘it’ spot for hipsters, fashionistas, foodies and locals. The restaurant looks like somebody’s attic that recently got a sexy face lift. Each room (there are three) is filled with relics, books, candles and photographs making you feel like your eating in somebody’s home from another era and maybe another country. Here’s my menu selection, start with the Diver Scallops, Israeli Couscous, Lemon Confit, Cauliflower and for dinner the Roast Chicken for Two, Spaetzle Stuffing, Sage, Roasted Carrot. For dessert, my personal area of interest, try the Warm Blood Orange Pudding Cake, Gianduja Panna Cotta, Salted Bittersweet Chocolate Sorbet. I truly never thought I’d like this dessert. I usually don’t care much for panna cotta (a consistency issue), and I rarely ever find sorbet that satifying, I’d just rather have ice cream. However, at Allen & Delancey they happily proved me wrong, it’s awesome!

115 Allen Street New York, NY 10002 p: 212.253.5400

Mary has a lot of style, energy and passion! Check out Bath Bloomers and if your in NYC, swing by Allen & Delancey at least for a drink…Enjoy!

Sweetly,

Alexandra

*Quoted from www.bathbloomers.com

Last Day to Play “First Food Love” And Enter to Win Free Cookies! (contest ends 2.3.09)

It takes only two minutes- here’s what to do:

In the “comments” section of this blog, please tell us about the first time you, your child or loved one tasted something delicious. What you ate, where you were and what you loved about it. All the entries will be put in a drawing to win 2 dozen Alexandra’s Cookie Dreams cookies to be gifted to you or someone else in time for Valentine’s Day. A special guest will pick the winning entry. Contest ends February 2nd, 2009. Winner will be selected February 3rd, 2009. So share a memory and taste the sweetness of life!

ACD’s Toffee Doodle Dream cookies were featured on the Rachael Ray Show, as the “Snack Of The Day”, on Monday January 12, 2008!

The Love behind the “First Food Love” Contest

Last week Rich and I went to Paris basically to eat! Rich had never been there before and in celebration of our anniversary, we thought it was time. The city was lit up for the holidays and it was romantic and breath-taking. The branches of the trees lining the Champs-Elysees were decorated with pale blue lights in the shape of champagne flutes. The weather was cold, but being true northerners we loved it! The people were lovely, welcoming and helpful. We visited the Mona Lisa; we took a ferris wheel ride at dusk; we ate lunch in the Eiffel Tower, and we drank delicious wine! (More about the restaurants after the contest rules)

Ok so now onto the contest, titled, “First Food Love.” Below is a picture of Rich enjoying his first Parisian Nutella Banana Crepe. Watching him bite into that heavenly dough and seeing the smile that arose from his face was fabulous! It instantly reminded me of my first crepe in Paris.

I was 15, wearing a motorcycle jacket and a new scarf I just bought on the street, and I remember that first gooey sweet bite of warm chocolate hitting my lips. I knew I had just tasted perfection!

In honor of Valentine’s Day and all the reasons to love in this world, Alexandra’s Cookie Dreams is proud to launch “First Food Love Contest.” Here are the details:

In the “comments” section of this blog, please tell us about the first time you, your child or loved one tasted something delicious. What you ate, where you were and what you loved about it. All the entries will be put in a drawing to win 2 dozen Alexandra’s Cookie Dreams cookies to be gifted to you or someone else in time for Valentine’s Day. (We will be launching a new Valentine’s Day cookie flavor soon). A special guest will pick the winning entry. Contest ends February 2nd, 2009. Winner will be selected February 3rd, 2009. So share a memory and taste the sweetness of life!

Paris Hit List:

Now, back to Paris. While there is so much to do, see, and eat in Paris, we only had four days so here’s my must hit list.

L’Ami Louis: This famous Parisian brasserie has been around since the 1930’s but it is the quaint size and “those who know” attitude that make it legendary, as well as incredibly hard to get into. That being said, I knew my friend, Insatiable Critic, Gael Greene has been writing about this restaurant for decades, check out her reviews,  Winter Travel: Paris Review (October 2003) & Eating Up Paris (September 2004). Even though our concierge at our hotel didn’t have enough clout, I thought Ms. Greene probably did.  I was correct, Louis told Ms. Greene to have us come that night. Pouf, we were in! I already felt like a celebrity just to have a table. Upon our entering, Louis (photo above) continued our fantasy of being important foodies by greeting us with a hug, a kiss and two glasses of champagne. I knew I liked it there. We ordered oysters, foie gras (it was the first time I ever ate it and I didn’t stop eating it for three days) the much talked about roasted chicken, potatoes, and a delicious red wine. The crowd was a mix of fashionable international jet setters and local Parisian couples. It was such a memorable night, I completely understand why it is coveted as a must go!

32 Rue du Vert-Bois, 3e

01-48-87-77-48

Le Table de Joel Robuchon: This is Joel Robuchon’s second more modern restaurant in Paris. Upon entering I felt like I stumbled upon a 1980’s hotel lobby, perhaps owned by Trump. Everything is black and shiny gold, with basically no windows to view the cozy Parisian street. It felt a bit stiff for Rich and I. However once I got passed the unexpected ambiance, and settled into our seats with a lovely wine (I know nothing about wine, nor will I pretend to, so lovely means it tasted good) the food was outrageous. We had three dishes from the shared dish menu, which included perfectly cooked scallops resting on a cushion of truffle penne. What could be bad! We decided to skip dessert there, although the waiter brought us sublime caramel infused chocolates, and we headed for drinks at the George V Hotel. Probably one of the most famous fancy hotels in Paris, and she knows it. The staff has the “we know your touristy type” and “I guess we must tolerate it” attitude. Regardless, the bar was crowded and I had my first Parisian Pastis. A licorice tasting drink (contains star anise) with alcohol, sugar and some spices, that is served with a carafe of water, to be mixed in. I felt sophisticated and festive ordering it, but later it just kind of made me nauseous.

16, Avenue Bugeaud

01-56-28-16-16

Jules Verne: Alain Ducasse’s restaurant in the Eiffel Tower more than 400 feet above ground. Obviously the views are spectacular, and we were lucky to have lunch there on a very clear day. The experience of entering the Eiffel Tower through a private entrance and taking a quiet elevator up to the restaurant was exciting and built the anticipation of the forthcoming experience. Our concierge recommended that we dress up for this lunch, so I wore a skirt and blouse and Rich wore a suit. Clearly, he was wrong. Most people were in sneakers and jeans, and we felt slightly ridiculous. But on to the food, as expected the lunch was decadent, filled with show stopping presentations and superb service. We opted for the chef’s tasting menu and we were thrilled. Rich and I started with foie gras (again!) and then I had the sea bass and Rich had the Special Of The Day, rabbit. Everything was cooked and presented perfectly. The only disappointment was dessert, an area that I personally scrutinize at every restaurant; field research you know? We had the vanilla souffle, a rum coated cake (I don’t know the fancy name for it) and some ice cream. All of which were a bit over done for my taste, too many ingredients, but I’m a simple dessert lover.

2e étage de la Tour Eiffel

01-45-55-61-44 Hotel Fouguet’s Barriere: All I can say is if I ever live in Paris, I hope my home looks like our room! This hotel was built two years ago on the corner of Champs-Elysees and Avenue George V. It is an incredible mix of modern amenities (flat screens in the bedroom and bathroom, computer charger attached to the inside of the safe) and old world Parisian charm (high ceilings, three sets of double doors that open onto a terrace overlooking the Champs-Elysees). The service was impeccable and every detail was considered. They even have a sexy zen spa & fitness center, with a swimming pool and a relaxation pool on the basement level, perfect after walking around for 8 hours in the freezing cold.

46, Avenue George v

01-40-69-60-00 

Oh and the pastries and bread! I’m leaving you with this final thought, chocolate brioche! It is definitely time for me to hit the gym!

Don’t forget to share a “First Food Love” right here on this blog’s comments page and enter to win 2 dozen free Alexandra’s Cookie Dreams cookies in time for Valentine’s Day for you or for someone else. (Details above).

Thanks for letting me relive my Paris trip with you!

Sweetly,

Alexandra

As you all know by now the Phillies won the World Series! Rich is ecstatic, Philly was dangerously overjoyed and my chic flick movie watching run has therefore come to end. To celebrate the end of two weeks of intense sports/movie viewing, we decided to get out of the apartment and take a day trip from Austin to visit a Texas Hill Country Winery and Fredericksburg. I have to say, it was a lot of fun and I highly recommend it for those who haven’t been there yet.

We got a late start and didn’t arrive to our first (any only) vineyard stop until 3:30. The trip took about 1 hour from downtown Austin, and the drive is pretty scenic. The northerner in me was hoping for much more fall foliage but honestly, seeing that its still 75 degrees here, I was satisfied with light shade of green leaf on the cusp of turning yellow.

Becker Vineyards: The winery looks like  a cozy stone and wood cabin in the middle of nowhere. They sell tons of lavender bath products and some wine too. We did the six wine tasting, only reds. As I gotten older mixing red and white wine just gives me a headache, I guess sommelier isn’t in my future. Rich loved the Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ‘06 and I enjoyed the Malbec ‘06, otherwise the highlight was beating Rich (as I usually do) in a few rounds of gin rummy. Napa Valley it isn’t but a fun activity it is, now onto Fredericksburg…

Fredericksburg: Is a charming town, settled in 1864 by German immigrant families and the town retains the style of traditional Germany. To keep its authenticity the stores use the words “Haus” instead of “House” and “Garten” for “Garden”. Usually I find this sort of historic re-creation irritating, phony and slightly creepy (ala Williamsburg VA and Disney World Epcot Center) however, in Fredericksburg I really enjoyed it. I think it is because the shopkeepers and restaurant owners are all modern, awesome and normal, and not sporting German hats, clogs and beer mugs. Rich and I parked the car on “Main Street” (obviously) and wondered the few blocks of town. There are tons of boutiques, each carrying very specific merchandise, like the candle only store, the scrap booking store, and of course the five ice cream and fudge parlors. There also a handful trendy clothing shops and antique stores.

Below is my Best of Fredericksburg ‘08:

Rustlin’ Rob’s: This a gourmet food shop specializing in unique sauces, jellies, dips, rubs, glazes (you get picture). It is awesome! You walk in and all the products they sell are out and ready for you to taste. Rich and I basically had lunch there. They offer pretzels and crackers to dip into everything! We loved the Pumpkin Butter, Jalapeno Honey Mustard, and Sugar Free Pecan Honey Butter (well I loved it, Rich doesn’t do “sugar-free“.) Oh, and did I mention they have a whole room devoted to “hot sauce”- brilliant Texans! If you can’t make it to their store (and I think it is worth the trip to F-burg alone) you can order on line at www.rustlinrob.com. I’m thinking about experimenting with their Jalapeno Peanut Butter in Alexandra’s Cookie Dreams Peanut Buttery Bliss…

Lone Star Candy: A retro candy shop filled with all the expected kitch. Homemade-ice creams, fudge, soda fountain and of course an Elvis coin-operated musical gimmick. Lone Star Candy was exactly what I wanted it to be…

House. Wine.: I love this store! It is a combination of perfectly edited home furnishings paired with a sleek wine bar in the back. Best of two worlds on one spot, great time management! And I found something at House.Wine that thrilled me; The All Nighter! No, not the ACD cookie flavor, but a candle version by Aromatherapy Interventions. Of course I had to buy it and it smells delicious, unfortunately not like chocolate espresso with a cayenne punch but like citrus bergamia and cananga tree to “stimulate and energize the spirit.” I like to think that both All Nighters have that effect !

Lincoln St. Wine and Cigar Bar: We ended our Fredericksburg trip a new wine bar that is dimly lit and sleek on the inside, with a comforting patio featuring live Americana music outside. We got a couple glasses of delicious Mondavi Solaire Cabernet Sauvignon ‘06 and I continued to beat Rich at many hands of gin rummy. Perfect way to end the day! (phone 830.997.8463)

The ACD Cookie Scoop just got prettier!  Special cookie flavors, insider discounts and cookie news. Sign up and spread the word to your family and friends. Here’s an example of a previous ACD Cookie Scoop newsletter October 20th edition) so you can see what you’ve been missing.

With Halloween behind us, the Holidays are closer than you think. Check out ACD Holiday Collection 2008 for decadent, memorable and easy holiday gifting.

Sweetly,

Alexandra

We are thrilled to launch Alexandra’s Cookie Dreams Holiday 2008!  Our festive holiday Cookie Packages and Packets are the ideal way to celebrate, indulge and have fun. Wrapped in our festive seasonal packaging they are the ultimate holiday cookie gift! We have made holiday gifting delicious, easy and worth celebrating. Check out our  Holiday Collection 2008 on Our Shop, and on our Corporate Orders/Large Orders page. We are also excited to offer our Cookie Holi-Day Break package (cookie trays) for customers in and around Austin. We are ready to get you in the holiday spirit!

Talk Is Sweet now has a live blog feed on Facebook. So check us out and become a fan! You’ll also receive a special discount offer only for Facebook users and viewers.

The Vegas…

I love Vegas. My husband and I go to Vegas about 4 times a year with different groups of friends, we even got married at A Little White Wedding Chapel, classy like Britney Spears. So it was really was not much of a surprise that we were going to Vegas for my “surprise birthday trip”, especially considering Rich’s non-misleading hints, “someplace warm, known for their nightlife.” When we arrived at the airport I feigned surprise and three hours later we happily arrived at The Wynn. For those of you who think Vegas is cheesy, over-rated, or been done, you can go enjoy Croatia, but I’m staying stateside until this recession ends. The Wynn is my favorite hotel in Vegas, an awesome mix of elegant and flash, think recessed mirrored ceilings encased in crown moldings. They have the most luxurious beds, decadent spa, mind awakening waterfall light show, and did I mention the topless Euro style pool with outdoor poker tables, simply brilliant! As it turns out, l have to change my “I -have -never -been -surprised- in -my- life” mantra because the first night my parents, sister Alana and her boyfriend Aaron (who live in NYC) surprised me at SW Steakhouse. I was overwhelmed, thoroughly shocked, and I couldn’t have been happier. We enjoyed 3 days of Vegas fun with a bit of an edited version for my parents, and it was the best b-day I ever had. Here are some of the highlights;

Tryst: The perpetually fun night club at The Wynn, a smallish lounge (for Vegas standards) with an indoor/outdoor space where the DJ plays snippets of all your favorite songs. The only thing I’d change is removing the stripper pole that seems to be a magnet for drunk bachelorette girls (and not in a good way).

Cirque Du Soleil: Love: In all my dozens of trips to Vegas, I have never seen a show. Truthfully, I always thought its timing would interfere with my disco nap or bore me to the point that I wouldn’t be able to go out after. Well, I guess I’m maturing now, I am a year older. The show was incredible (it’s set to the Beatles music ) and actually kept my attention. Healthy fun for the whole family. However earlier that evening we had an inedible and irritating dinner at Stack, the new restaurant at the Mirage. Music was ridiculously loud, even for the young folk, the service oddly rude and the food a mess. Here’s one many examples, chilean sea bass lettuce wraps ripped right off of Nobu’s menu, arrived tasting fishy and immersed in soy sauce, Nobu would cry!

Joe’s Stone Crab: Our Vegas Saturday lunch ritual was even more outstanding by the arrival of my third surprise, our dear LA friends Ashley & Adam. It made for the perfect celebration, as we feasted on stone crabs and Bloody Mary’s. I also suggest the fried chicken which is often overlooked but a welcome addition “for the table.”

Shopping: Vegas has the best shopping in the country (except for maybe Dallas) Every designer is represented, and each shop showcases their most outrageous, one of a kind creation. I had been hunting down these silver Louboutin heels since I saw them in a Look Book back in July. Every salesperson I stalked told me that I wasn’t going to find them anywhere…well, you see them, their mine. Persistence pays off!

Lavo: Saturday night we dined and partied at the new hot spot Lavo, from the owners of TAO. It touts itself as Mediterranean inspired, but besides the two naked girls sponge bathing each other in a bathtub in the middle of the dining room, I’m not sure I felt transported to an exotic land. However, the food was terrific. They smartly kept it simple; pizza, pasta, fish and knish (really!). Upstairs the club is intimate, sexy and fabulous. We spent the night in traditional Vegas revelry, dancing, sweating and celebrating. What a b-day!

In-N-Out Burger: You can’t leave Vegas with out a stop for a vanilla milk shake, fries and a burger. Keep your cab driver happy while he waits to take you to the airport by ordering him lunch too, and then happily head home and recover.

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Sweetly,

Alexandra