Feel-good Friday: it’s a blonde thing

You can’t change the world overnight but you can change your hair in an hour and the world will be a better place!

I'm feeling Blonde all over
Feeling Blonde all over

Not that I need to have more fun in my life but it doesn’t hurt to find out if it gets better 

Finally a man that understands my worth
Finally a man that understands I’m really a princess.

We women need some change now and then and what better way than to start with a new haircut or hair color.  For me it’s usually color because I prefer to keep some length. I don’t take too many chances with cuts. I took chances when I was younger and wasn’t always crazy about the results – especially the perm or the Mia Farrow pixie cut that I had no say in (at five years old, on account of my mom having to cut my very long hair short because I had a huge tangle that she couldn’t comb out.  She grabbed the scissors and started chopping). Now I understand why dogs get embarrassed when they have a shaved look.  I never forgot but I did end up forgiving her years later.

The Inside Job
The Inside Job

For color I’ve had beautiful black and brown, awesome auburn, really red and various shades of blond hair.  In the past I’ve loved my long black hair and my vibrant red (which was a pleasant surprise but very hard to keep looking fresh not to mention the expense – darn it!). It must be noted that the Brazilian hairstylists do the best highlights ever. And as it turns out the color that suits me best is a rich auburn.

Four years ago I went to my hairdresser to try blond again.  My regular hairstylist was not around and a new guy stepped in and suggested I leave it up to him and try something different and before I knew it I was a redhead.  A shocking bright redhead… and he didn’t even tell me he was doing that.  That’s how stupid trusting I was. For me it was stepping out of my comfort zone and I almost started to cry.  But then I got lots of compliments (although at first I was sure everyone was lying to make me feel better) and realized that it really did suit me in an unnaturally sexy kind of way and decided to keep up my new red facade. I even changed my makeup and clothing to match my new hair – started wearing more green (researching photos of Julianne Moore as my muse).

Then after about three weeks all my redhead dreams faded away and I was a brassy shade of reddish blondish brown and could not locate that same hairstylist fill-in again for the life of me (believe me, I really tried – these people are so transient it’s not even funny).

Synopsis: I think red hair on certain women looks dynamite and shiny black hair is very striking.  Then there are the various shades of blond.  And it’s not even that I find blonde hair makes every woman look younger.  It’s not about that. Many times it has the opposite effect. So then, why blond?

Because as strange as it sounds all women secretly want to feel what it’s like to be a blond even if they know it doesn’t really suit them, if that makes any sense (but never question it).  It’s similar to putting on a pair of high heels. The effect is more lightness (ha, ha) fun & sexy even if temporarily. The best thing about hair is that it can be changed back as quickly as a trip to the hairdresser or drugstore.  Infact this latest hair job came from a box at the drugstore and done in a hotel room by a very patient person…moi!

blonde1

I like to feel blonde all over – Marilyn Monroe

 

Fashion that will knock your socks off

SOCKS are flying off the shelves.  You can tell a lot about a person by the type of socks they wear.  20160116_135621I’m trying, I’m trying but the only socks that appeal to me are sock monkeys.  Remember I’m the one who prefers going barefoot whenever possible. I only wear socks when necessary like when I’m wearing pants with shoes that require them.  And usually it’s a black pair with black pants, grey with grey, brown with brown…you get the picture.  And they must be thin enough to wear with shoes but have just the right amount of elasticity to not fall down around the ankles (like I embarrassingly experienced with a very expensive pair of pantyhose).

Superhero Socks
Superhero Socks

20160116_135519

I wear white sport socks for running and that’s about it.  My previous sock flamboyancy came out once when I wore a pair that had colorful toe separaters (yup, one for each toe) that a friend brought me back from Japan (you know, the Japanese are so fashion forward and prone to taking risks even with their toes).  Oh; and one time I tried wearing those thin nylon short lacy ones in black with open-toed Manolos and a skirt but the look is very trendy even though I liked the idea and they were from Wolford.  It seemed so naughty school-girl – so not me (the school-girl part anyway).

Overall I’m sad to report that I’m a predictable and boring sock person. There are new boutiques specializing only socks and even some of the upscale stores are featuring ones meant to be seen (why else would you buy flamingo socks if not to show them off?) and something for every type of person – I’m still not on board. But I must admit they’re a shoe-in for attention.  Never say never!

Leopard is a neutral now
Leopard is a neutral 

How about you – what kind of sock person are you?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How about you – are you the crazy sock type?

Goodbye Glenn – there’s gonna be a heartache tonight

Vaguery is the primary tool of songwriters” – Glenn Freyhotelcalifornia2Oh; there’s been too many losses in the entertainment industry in such a short time span.  Talented British actor Alan Rickman passed away less than a week ago (days after I watched a new movie he’s in that’s not even released yet), and only four days after David Bowie.  On that very same day, Celine Dion’s extremely smart manager husband René Angélil passed. Now Glenn Frey. This news came just days after I took a photo of “Hotel California” which I instagrammed with the captioned “some dance to remember, some dance to forget – with no alibis”.  Strange, right? And like Bowie, so unexpected.

my photo
my photo

I get this feeling I may know you

As a lover (I wished) and a friend
But this voice keeps whispering in my other ear
Tells me I may never see you again

‘Cause I get a peaceful easy feeling
And I know you won’t let me down
‘Cause I’m already standing on the ground.

What can I say about Glenn Frey that hasn’t been said before? Not too much.  Except that my BFF and I met Glenn Frey and Don Henley at an after party following their Hotel California concert performance in Montreal at the height of their career that they personally invited us to.  They were very pleasant and probably a bit tired after the exceptional show.  Jimmy Buffett was the opening act at the Montreal Forum that night.  I remember totally ignoring him.  At the time Hotel California was my favourite album and I had a big crush on Glenn Frey.  I must say once again, we were not groupies (only because we were very young, they were very famous and a lot of girls would have done anything to even be in the same room).  Anyway, it must also be noted that it didn’t seem like they were all that interested either.  We were not easy targets although like I said, I was crushing on Glenn because he was not only good looking and talented but there was also something naturally down home & unaffected about him which made him all that more attractive.  And he spent a chunk of time talking to us like we were already friends (“but Glenn, can’t I be your girlfriend? – move out of my way Jimmy”).  Sigh!hotelcalifornia4

These guys were the first ones to get my mind Tiffany-twisted, and wanting a Mercedes Benz.

Oh; yeah there’s more….

The Eagles were one of the great forces of 1970’s rock.  Frey co-wrote and sang most of the Eagles hits, including Life in the Fast Lane, Desperado, Take It Easy, Tequila Sunrise, Lyin’ Eyes, Heartache Tonight and of course the infamous Hotel California.  He was the Lennon to Don Henley’s McCartney.

One of the most famous Album Covers of all timie
One of the most famous Album Covers of all time

Hotel California is ostensibly about a luxury hotel visit that crosses over to the dark side – but it is really an allegory about the hedonistic lifestyle the musicians enjoyed in the 1970s.   Some of the wilder interpretations of that song have been amazing. It was really about the excesses of American culture and certain girls they knew (not us, I think). But it was also about the uneasy balance between art and commerce.  And a bunch of other stuff.

So Glenn… thanks for the memories, the music and giving us food for thought:hotelcalifornia3

Don’t let the sound of your own wheels
drive you crazy
Lighten up while you still can
don’t even try to understand
Just find a place to make your stand
and take it easy.

Maybe order another tequila sunrise

And always make music

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers

Here is a fast, easy, healthy recipe that most people will enjoy as a side dish or something different to take to a potluck.  quionoa3When I’ve made these on occasion, people really seem to enjoy them (unless everyone is lying which can happen). For vegetarians, just omit the meat.  You can use black beans and corn to turn it into something more southwestern and melt cheese overtop.  Use your imagination – they’re pretty foolproof.

Ingredients:

4-6 large red (or variety of colors) bell peppers

1 Tbsp. olive oil

½ large white onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed

1 lb. ground turkey

1 tsp. red pepper flakes

1 Tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped

1 cup cooked tricolor quinoa

2 cups tomato and basil pasta sauce

Directions:

  • Cup the tops off the peppers and remove all seeds. Set aside.
  • Heat large saucepan on medium heat. Drizzle olive oil in the pan, toss in diced onions, cook until onions start to turn clear (about 1 minute).  Add garlic, and stir.  Let onions and garlic simmer for 30 seconds before adding ground turkey.  Season with salt and pepper to taste.  Sprinkle in red pepper flakes and half the parsley; stir occasionally.  Save remaining parsley for garnish.
  • Once turkey is no longer pink, turn off the heat and drain excess liquid. Add 1 cup cooled quinoa and 2 cups pasta sauce, stir to incorporate.
  • Stuff each pepper with the filling (add a bit of cheese to melt overtop if you want) then place peppers upright in a small baking dish filled with a little water. Cover with tinfoil and bake in 350 degree oven for about 5 minutes until peppers are  slightly soft.  Some people prefer using a microwave to steam the peppers covered in plastic for 5 minutes.
  • Either way, cautiously remove them and plate the peppers individually. Garnish with parsley.

Serves 4 – 6

A few health benefits for Bell Peppers, Ground Turkey & Quinoa:

Peppers: the highest amount of Vitamin C in a bell pepper is concentrated in the red variety. Red bell peppers contain several phytochemicals and carotenoids, particularly beta-carotene, which lavish you with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. The capsaicin in bell peppers has multiple health benefits. They contain plenty of vitamin C, which powers up your immune system and keeps skin youthful.

Turkey: when you compare ground turkey with its beef counterpart, they’re relatively even. But ground turkey comes in a fat-free version that could be the best option for your heart. It’s a food low in both sodium and saturated fat, making it a great choice in general—and especially solid for those watching their blood pressure or cholesterol. Turkey also packs a nutritional punch with a healthy dose of B-complex vitamins, which help regulate cholesterol levels and promote healthy blood circulation.  Just make sure the packaging specifies ground turkey breast and that it’s labled at least 90% lean. (If not, there’s probably dark meat and skin mixed in, adding unwanted calories and fat.)

Quinoa: in comparison to cereal grasses like wheat, quinoa is higher in fat content and can provide valuable amounts of heart-healthy fats like monounsaturated fat (in the form of oleic acid). Quinoa can also provide small amounts of the omega-3 fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Given this higher fat content, researchers initially assumed that quinoa would be more susceptible to oxidation and resulting nutrient damage. However, recent studies have shown that quinoa does not get oxidized as rapidly as might be expected given its higher fat content. This finding is great news from a nutritional standpoint. The processes of boiling, simmering, and steaming quinoa do not appear to significantly compromise the quality of quinoa’s fatty acids, allowing us to enjoy its cooked texture and flavor while maintaining this nutrient benefit. Food scientists have speculated that it is the diverse array of antioxidants found in quinoa—including various members of the vitamin E family like alpha-, beta-, gamma- and delta-tocopherol as well as flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol—that contribute to this oxidative protection.

Source: let’s eat – OC Family

Let me know if you like this recipe

Lifestyle: Laguna Living

LAGUNA BEACH IS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S PREMIER COASTAL DESTINATION IF YOU LOVE SURF, ART, HEALTHY FOOD AND A LAID-BACK NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL ATMOSPHERE.laguna13

It’s where I met Aristotle, a handsome 34 year old native New Yorker who blurted out “I love you” within a minute of meeting me.  I immediately fell for him but he was living with someone else. Then, when I left hesitatingly he said “later baby.” Such is life. I saved his photo for last.laguna10laguna11

This seven-mile stretch of sand and surf is located midway between Los Angeles and San Diego.  It offers a year-round retreat for art lovers, nature enthusiasts and beachgoers. 

A re-cap of my second visit to Laguna Beach and certainly not my last.20160111_151324
laguna5

Some Abstract
Some Abstract
Sign Posts
Artful Sign Posts
Sapphire's fine coffees, cheeses, wines & prepared foods.
Sapphire’s globally inspired fine coffees, cheeses, wines & prepared foods. They cater too.
Surfer dude. My drawing from a from photo I took.
Surfer dude. My drawing from a photo I took.

SHOP LAGUNA

The main shopping street
The main shopping street
Design mixed with surf and upscale boutiques
Design stores mixed with surf and upscale boutiques.  Lots of ART Galleries.laguna1

20160111_15342920160111_162715

The best salads, rice bowls & gelatos
The best salads, rice bowls & frozen yogurt.
This is Michael. He's the friendly official "unoffcial" greeter of Laguna.
This is Michael. He is the friendly official “unoffcial” greeter of Laguna.
Aristotle
This is Aristotle, my 34-year-old looker that talks back!

 

20160111_153535

Photos: d. king

Health – on the seedy side

CHIA vs FLAX?  I don’t know if one is better than the other so I use both.

Chia Seeds
Chia Seeds

Both are considered super-seeds. At least Flax was spared the humility of being sold as a pet.  Let’s focus on chia seeds for now.

Not so long ago chia seeds were most well known for being spread onto terracotta pottery so that they would grow fur to resemble some kind of animal.  I never had one of those and thought them to be in the same category as the useless pet rock.

But then we found out that the seeds are much more useful than for making novelty items; they’re incredibly beneficial for your health.  So to be on the healthy safe side I put a handful into my vitamix to add to smoothies and top granola and oatmeal with the potent little seeds that have similar benefits to Flax except they don’t have to be ground prior to consumption, and they don’t go rancid as quickly either.

Chia seeds, along with mint, were a prized food to the ancient Aztecs and Mayans. “Chia” is the ancient Mayan word for strength, and the tiny seeds were valued for their energy-boosting properties.

A Rich Source of Healthy Fats and Nutrients

Chia seeds are a quick and easy-to-use source of protein, healthy fats, dietary fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, all rolled into one neat package. That’s a lot to boast about.

20160112_100741In addition, chia seeds contain a number of additional phytochemicals, each with its own unique benefits. This includes myricetin, quercetin, and kaempferol, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties, and caffeic acid.

As it goes with the latest “IT” health boosters, you can buy it in other forms like the “Mamma Chia” energy drink shown here which has other added health benefits like spinach, kale, mint & spirulina and tastes similar to bubble tea.

Do you use Chia?

 

Meters that Matter

Buddy, can you spare a dime?20160111_150522 - Copy

Say NO to panhandling
Say NO to panhandling

What a great idea to pimp up old parking meters that will accept any change to benefit the homeless. They’re found scattered around Laguna Beach, California but I think more cities should have them. Now these are meters that I don’t mind putting quarters in!

Use change to make a change20160111_150609

“At the end of life we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, how many great things we have done. We will be judged by ‘I was hungry and you gave me to eat, I was naked and you clothed me, I was homeless and you took me in.’ Hungry not only for bread — but hungry for love. Naked not only for clothing — but naked for human dignity and respect. Homeless not only for want of a room of bricks — but homeless because of rejection.” ~ Mother Teresa


20160111_151003

Remember, “No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted” (Aesop)

 

Photos: d. king

Style ICON – David BOWIE

We all know the various ch ch ch changes that David Bowie went through over his vast successful career and since he was the man of style I had to dedicate a whole post to him because:

This shows his unkempt elegant side. KMazur/WireImage
I love this photo – it shows his unkempt, sexy, elegant side.
Photo: KMazur/WireImage
  1. can’t believe he is no longer among us
  2. he was the original man of style
  3. his was one of the first concerts I went to see at the Montreal Forum
  4. I have four friends who got up close and personal with him – in a professional sense
  5. He was one of a kind and the first and best person at re-inventing himself.  Surely that’s where performers like Madonna & Lady Gaga got the idea from.
  6. out of countless crazy, fun and fashionable images these are my personal favorites
    The Thin White Duke as a swashbuckler, with scarf and full, flowing shirt, Jorgen Angel/Redferns
    A swashbuckler, with scarf and white shirt.  Photo: 
    Jorgen Angel/Redferns
    Things were looking peachy with "Let's Dance" Photo: Paul Natkin/WireImage
    Things were looking peachy with “Let’s Dance” Photo: Paul Natkin/WireImage
    Guess I love a well-dressed bowie best. Photo: Richard E. Aaron/Redferns
    Guess I love a well-dressed Bowie best.  Photo: Richard E. Aaron/Redferns
    Bowie's most normal look of the 70's Photo: Steve Morley/Redferns
    Bowie’s most normal look of the 70’s. Photo: Steve Morley/Redferns
    Handsomely dressed down. Photo: Frank Micelotta/ImageDirect
    Handsomely dressed down. Photo: Frank Micelotta/ImageDirect

    He can really rock a suit KMazur/WireImage
    He can really rock a suit.
    Photo: KMazur/WireImage

 

RIP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tipping his hat to Sinatra Photo: Michael Putland/Getty Images
Tipping his hat to Sinatra.
Photo: Michael Putland/Getty Images
Looking for a part with "Interview with a Vampire?" He was also an actor. Photo: Hayley Madden/Redferns
He brought Baroque back.  Photo: Hayley Madden/Redferns
Bohemian fashion crossroad? Photo: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
Bohemian fashion crossroad?
Photo: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
I too would cover my lets with a trench coat if meeting Tina. Wise idea. Photo: Dave Hogan/Getty Images
I too would cover my legs with a trench coat if meeting Tina Turner. Any wise woman would. Photo: Dave Hogan/Getty Images

 

In '97 with his longtime wife IMAN on his 50th birthday - Jan/9 Photo: KMazur/WireImage
With his longtime wife IMAN on his 50th birthday – Jan/9/1997
Photo: KMazur/WireImage

 

 

My friend Dee Lippingwell took this photo among many many others.
Rock Photographer & friend Dee Lippingwell took this photo among many many other great ones of Bowie.
S T Y L E
S T Y L E

Source: Billboard & Dee Lippingwell

He will be missed!

Style: the MEN

The Most Stylish Men in Fashion

Last week marked the beginning of the Fall 2016 men’s season, and along with it feedback from some of the fashion experts at Vogue.  It was the first time that Vogue Runway covered the men’s shows.  To whet your appetite, editors weighed in on the best well-dressed dudes.

Here, my paired down version of the most stylish guys in fashion.  I narrowed it down from 30, Starting with…

Franck Chevalier

now if he lost the cigarette it would be even better - he has a cool-guy vibe. Photo: Courtesy of Franck Chevalier
For me he could lose the cigarette, but it’s all part of his Clint Eastwood/Marlboro man rugged appeal.  Photo: Courtesy of Franck Chevalier

Jean Paul Gaultier protégé and stylist to some of the greatest musicians of all time, Chevalier’s own look is a brilliant combination of vintage, streetwear, and original pieces he designs for himself.

Maurice Mullen

Photo: David M. Benett / Getty Images
Photo: David M. Benett / Getty Images

“To me, it’s Maurice Mullen of the London Evening Standard, who I always look forward to seeing at the London shows. I have never been able to comprehend the number of immaculate Savile Row suits he must have, nor his ability to deploy the loudest patterns and colors and the killer clashing pocket handkerchief—and plaid trousers on occasion!—while being the most gentlemanly and wickedly insightful neighbor to sit next to at a show.” —Sarah Mower, Vogue.com Chief Critic

Gene Krell

Photo: Courtesy of Nao Krell / @inagakikrell
Photo: Courtesy of Nao Krell

“Style is but one of Gene Krell’s admirable qualities, and he has it in spades. Born in Brooklyn, Krell was part of the London scene as hippie segued into punk. And then he brought Vogue to Asia. His street style look is built on tailoring, with British and Italian touches. And the man has range: Krell can work a tattooed surf look with as much ease as a toggle coat and brown suede shoes.” —Laird Borrelli-Persson, Vogue.com Archive Editor

Ian Bradley

Photo: Madison McGaw / BFA.com
Photo: Madison McGaw / BFA.com

“No one does the retro-hipster-nerd look better! With Ian you know it’s super-authentic, and every time I see him it makes me smile.” —Kelly Connor

Yohji Yamamoto

Photographed by Tommy Ton
Photographed by Tommy Ton

Yohji gets my vote. His is the gold standard by which all other designer uniforms must be judged. Consistent, pragmatic, and elegant, there’s nothing not to love about his look.” —Kristin Anderson, Vogue.com Fashion News Writer

Raf Simons

Photo: Francois Guillot / Getty Images
Photo: Francois Guillot / Getty Images

 

Former Dior Designer “Raf Simons is the greatest of all time. The end.” —Steff Yotka, Vogue.com Fashion News Writer

John Nollet

Photo: Kristy Sparrow / Getty Images
Photo: Kristy Sparrow / Getty Images

“French hairstylist to chic women like Nicole Kidman and Vanessa Paradis, John Nollet has his own signature style worth noting: white shirt, sharp jacket, trimmed beard, and artfully messy, shoulder-length hair. Sometimes he ties it back in a knot or braids it with one of his own couture feathered hairpieces, which he designs with Maison Lemarié; that contrast between his natty clothes and wild, bohemian hair is so cool—and so French. Bonus: He’s incredibly charming (and handsome)!” —Emily Farra

Karl Lagerfeld

Photo: David M. Bennett / Getty Images
Photo: David M. Bennett / Getty Images

“Kaiser Karl is a cluster of contradictory style statements, clashed together like a game of sartorial Consequences: Edwardian collar and stickpin with streamlined hypermodern suiting, biker gloves and goth rings, 18th-century powdered pigtail—like a Prussian general—and Terminator sunglasses. It shouldn’t work, but it always does. Lagerfeld has crafted an instantly identifiable image: He’s the most recognizable designer of our times and, I’d argue, the most stylish man on the planet. There aren’t many fashion designers people dress up as for Halloween, and there aren’t many people for whom formal dress is for life, not just the red carpet.” —Alexander Fury

Stefano Pilati

Photo: Joe Schildhorn / BFA.com
Photo: Joe Schildhorn / BFA.com

“The Zegna designer has my vote. Why? To me, he is the epitome of fearless, intuitive elegance: always intensely masculine, but those cuts, those fabrics, the tattoos, the jewelry . . .” —Sally Singer, Vogue Creative Digital Director

Mystery Manmen

Don’t know who he is, but I think he deserves to be included.

Any other favorites?

 

Food – Palm Springs Perfect

I’ve been coming to Palm Springs for one or two months every year for several years. Not to escape the snow but to escape the Vancouver damp and cold.  Not a snowbird exactly, more of a wet bird.

with other wet rainbirds
with other rain birds – at Woody’s

The sunshine is a big draw although this time it rained heavily for a few days and a medium strength earthquake shook me out of bed one morning. I enjoy a good shake in the morning but mostly after a workout.

There are a lot of things to enjoy in and around Palm Springs. I get to swim almost every day and pick fresh grapefruit and lemons for my good morning start. I love the food here.

Oh, speaking of food…for this post, let’s focus on the Food.

Chilean Sea Bass at LuLu
Chilean Sea Bass at LuLu

There is unbelievably good cuisine to be found in and around Palm Springs.  Of course, I haven’t been to every single restaurant but I can recommend a fair share of superb and varied places. So here are my pics with a short review and I’m certain many of them are considered to be the Pride (no pun intendedof Palm Springs.

DEBBIE’s baker’s DOZEN (in no particular order):

Woody’s Burgers: 317 N. Indian Canyon Drive – 760.230.0188

Music & Burger Heaven
Music & Burger Heaven

From the outside it looks like a typical 1950’s diner but once inside you realize it is not your typical diner.  That’s what I love about Woody’s.  In short, they have excellent burgers but the real draw is when you step into the back room.  There you’ll find a blue dining room complete with a stage, professional sound system and great live music.  This former bus station is the place where top jazz and blues artists perform every night of the week.  It’s where I bumped into my friend Michelle from Vancouver with her family and some friends sitting at a nearby table (photo above).  Then for sure I knew it was a cool spot. Bonus: no cover charge, but reservations are recommended.

Copley’s of Palm Canyon: 621 N. Palm Canyon Drive – 760.327.9555

Magical at night
Magical especially at night

I wanted to go here based on the fact that it was formerly Cary Grant’s estate. Built in the 1920’s, this inside/outside restaurant has kept the flavour of the original Spanish architecture with its red-tile roofs, fountains and tile patios.  It has consistently been rated among the top restaurants in the valley by Zagat’s and New York Times.  A welcoming atmosphere with inspiring food and fire pits best describes this romantic spot.  The only thing that would have made it perfect is if I had been sitting across from Cary Grant instead of my friend Colleen (but don’t tell her that).

PHO533: 1775 E. Palm Canyon Drive 760.778.6595  20151230_204428

In short, this is PHO sure the best Vietnamese (fusion) food I’ve had to date.  They are noted for their Vietnamese Crepe but I ordered the summer mango rolls, chicken lemongrass meatballs & slow roasted Pho (broth) with rice stick noodles, herbs, spices and kaffir lime. Satisfaction guaranteed!

TRIO: 707 N. Palm Canyon Drive – 760.864.8746

Bread Pudding - TRIO
TRIO Bread Pudding
LuLu - chocolate ganache & coffee crème brûlée
LULU – chocolate ganache & coffee crème brûlée

Trio is a treat.  It’s casual but cool and has classic comfort food like Mac’ n 5 Cheese, St. Louis Ribs and an original vegetarian ceviche.  Oh; you don’t consider ceviche to be in the comfort category? You should try it!  This is where I stole the recipe.

Sherman’s Deli & Bakery: 401 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way – 760.325.1199

Sherman's Summer Salad
Sherman’s Summer Salad

After leaving your name with the host you’ll have a relatively short wait but it’s worth it. Focus is on very casual, unbeatable platters, sandwiches, soups and salads.  Everything you want in a deli.  Bring a hearty appetite and give the chefs a chance to show off – as the menu states. You will not be disappointed! Also, this is the place where my friend Cher and I made national news (twice in one day) when we were questioned re the vibe surrounding Palm Springs at the International Film Festival.  Didn’t you see it?  We were awesome!

Lulu California Bistro: 200 S. Palm Canyon Drive – 760.327.5858

Lulu Ahi Tuna Tower
Lulu Ahi Tuna Tower

One of my all-time favourite hangouts when in P.S.  It’s located in the former space of a major art gallery.  A lively atmosphere with an extensive, value-priced menu celebrating California casual cuisine.  It’s just a memorable place with very good food.  One of my favourites is the tuna tower.  I spent New Year’s Eve here twice.

Tropicale: 330 E. Amado Rd. – 760.866.1952tropicale1A chic and sophisticated décor  with “world class” cuisine.  The Coral Seas Lounge, a hip mid-century style bar is lined with sexy black leather bar-stools and is reminiscent of the upbeat lounges of old Palm Springs. It wraps around the dining room and leads outside to a lush, tropical, 2000 square foot dining patio where a variety of specialty cocktails and old-school favorites are mixed – an ideal place where friends gather and martinis are sipped under the starlit desert sky. How could that not be attractive?

Bill’s Pizza: 119 South Indian Canyon Drive (they don’t take reservations)20160105_193953Two of the best pizzas I’ve ever tasted – that’s all!

aldenteAl Dente: 491 N Palm Canyon Dr. – (760) 325-1160

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

This relaxed trattoria with a cozy patio and European atmosphere serves Italian classics. Everything is homemade using the freshest ingredients.  It was one of the first places I dined at when visiting Palm Springs.

Sammy G’s Tuscan Grille: 265 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs – (760) 320-8041sammygs

Casual yet elegant vibe, traditional Italian mixed with updated classics are on the menu.  I really loved sitting outside under the heat lamps while being serenaded by the guitarist.  Thursday through Saturday night the lounge becomes energetic where you can dance the night away to live music and enjoy some signature cocktails.

Morton’s (Palm Desert): 74-880 Country Club Dr, Palm Desert – (760) 340-6865mortonsSo this is really in Palm Desert but it had to be included. Aside from offering some of the best steaks in the world, this steakhouse has one of the best happy hour menus ever. We enjoyed filet 3 ways (bearnaise, bleu cheese & chipotle), beef short rib tacos, tuna tacos, crab sliders and parmesan/truffle string fries. Very reasonably priced happy hour too.

Melvyn’s: 200 West Ramon Road – 760.325.232320160109_105422

My friend Colleen told me that this restaurant which is located at the Ingleside Inn (an historic landmark) and is very “Old Hollywood” is really old.  She said she went for drinks and there were lots of lushes hanging out but the Inn itself was very interesting. Hmmm….it piqued my curiosity so I had to check it out. After all, the brochure claims it “One of the World’s 10 Best.” The smaller print under that says…according to “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.”  But that show is waaay before my time. So I went for brunch.  I see what Colleen means; it’s living in the past but to be fair it has a somewhat elegant atmosphere and the brunch was very good.

In the piano bar
In the piano bar – some alumni photos
The lovely pond view
The lovely pond view at Melvyn’s

I had prime rib hash with a poached egg over top and scalloped potatoes.  Did I mention the endless champagne?  I say it’s worth checking out because it’s been here for more than 40 years and the b+w who’s who photos lining the wall with everyone from Frank Sinatra to Heidi Klum is glamorous memorabilia and fun to look at.  At least a drink at the piano bar in the evening would be worth it. p.s. when strolling the property I stole oranges off the tree.

Elmer's "looking for sun" omelette, blueberry buttermilk pancakes & potato pancakes.
Elmer’s “looking for sun” omelette, blueberry buttermilk pancakes & potato pancakes.

BEST in BREAKFAST: Elmer’s hands down: 1030 E. Palm Canyon Drive  – 760.327.8419

A family-style restaurant offering exceptional American-style breakfasts.  Memorable food & gracious service make this a must. *Their German pancakes look awesome.

Additional: 

p.s. I’m told by some very reliable sources (Michele & her mom Vicki) that restaurant & lounge Eight4Nine (west coast modern cuisine) located at 849 (no kidding?) N. Palm Canyon Drive is excellent.  760.325.8490  *I haven’t been yet – the decor does not appeal to me but I intend to try it.

Oh; I cannot forget my all-time favourite flan (after my friend Rosa’s) is from JJ’s Oasis Latino

My second favorite flan
My second favorite flan

located at 1550 N. Palm Canyon Dr.  This family run Mexican restaurant which has been here for ages has the greatest coconut flan…..ever!  Trust me, I know.

I know, I know…those in the know will say she missed Spencer’s but really there is only so much I can eat and as you can see…I’m doing a pretty good job of it so far (but I have to run and swim more on account of it).  As I write this I’m looking at the bougainvillea room at Spencer’s (their stunning outdoor patio allows dogs so you know what that means.  It means more working out).  It never ends….

Spencer’s Restaurant:  701 W. Baristo Road – 760.327.3446

Photos: d. king  (Tropicale and Morton’s – google images)

Now for the Detox