Sassy Savvy Travel

I am happy to announce the launch of my new website and blog The Lipstick Cafe.  I have been working behind the scenes for some time now in taking my blog to the next level, with a new layout, design, and feel.  Stories about food, inspiration, and travel are still key elements in my blog. 

While I will soon close this blog, I want to thank you for reading my evolution as a writer at Sassy Savvy Travel and I hope you continue following my culinary journey at The Lipstick Cafe.  Come on by and visit. 

Many thanks to my friend Lawrence for designing the website - his work is amazing.  Holler at him at Design by Law if you want your own website makeover! 

{Fair at the Louvre, Paris, 2006}

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As I’m planning my honeymoon for this Fall, I find myself missing Europe more and more these days.  Even though we’re leaning towards visiting Australia, summer and fall always remind me of my time in Paris and Italy.  Looking at old photos and recalling the vivid colors and sounds of the cities brighten my feelings of nostalgia.  Sometimes I forget what I saw or breathed in until I browse through my pictures.  The major sites stick out to me, but it’s the little things, like this statue, that my memory glosses over. 

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I’m sure many of us travel and store thousands of digital photos tucked away in our computers, most never making it to the print world.  Like the saying of the tree falling in the forest, what happens to a photo or a memory that is never looked at again?  In addition to sharing stories, I want to use this blog as a visual space to showcase and bring life to my “lost” captured travel moments.  Perhaps it will feel like visiting Europe all over again.              

Whenever my best friend from Los Angeles comes to visit me in San Jose or I’m arranging the next monthly ladies’ get together, I always face the same dilemma.  San Jose is fondly my hometown, but it is difficult for me to think of enticing hang out spots that are appropriate for an evening catch-up session.  The components that contribute to an enjoyable ladies’ night out: not too loud surroundings (but not dead quiet) for good conversation, cool and fun ambiance to set the mood, and a variety of tasty drinks and appetizers at a good price.  We professional women cannot merely lounge just anywhere, especially when escapism from the office, family, or other potential stressors is what we seek.   

Those who reside in Silicon Valley might echo this sentiment and, like me, tire of the boisterous and scantily clad crowds in downtown San Jose clubs or the tight spaces packed in popular Santana Row lounges.  A $20 cover for Straits Lounge at night?  What is this - Las Vegas?  Can’t a gal hang out with her friends without requiring a guest list, being ogled at for just wanting to dress up, or shouting over the indoor noise to be heard?

These places are rare, but they do exist.  Over the course of many happy hours, celebrations, and female bonding time, I’ve discovered some places that range from fun and lively to the trendy and upscale and even the charming and cozy.  There is a different spot, be it a bar, restaurant, or lounge, for practically every mood.  Whether your urge is to doll up and soak in the trendy vibe or to relax casually outdoors, you can’t go wrong with these following 10 choices.  A variety of delicious cocktails and appetizers make these San Jose finds a perfect backdrop to kick off your ladies’ night out any day of the week.    
   
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Koji Sake Lounge: Spend happy hour at this small and contemporary sake lounge, with cool artwork decorating the walls.  Try the Lychee Martini, lychee infused sake, for its subtly sweet flavor or the Zengria, a sangria with sake.  Cocktails with sake go down quite easily and are enjoyable with $5 happy hour bites such as the Spam Musubi, salt and peppered Edamame beans, and the Chicken Karaage – fried chicken, Japanese style.  Happy Hour is from 6pm – 9pm, Wednesday – Friday.

48 S. First Street San Jose, CA 95113  

Mezcal: Amidst a sea of ubiquitous tacquerias in San Jose, this Oaxacan restaurant, food from Southern Mexico’s region, shines with plenty of seating in its rustic bricked patio.  Strung lights, heated lamps, and potted plants on a stairwell create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.  It shares the outdoor court with Billy Berk’s although, you’ll find the lively crowd on this festive side of the stantion.  Sip refreshing and strong $5 Mezcaleritas, their version of Margaritas using mezcal instead tequila, that complements fried calamari and Memelitas, corn tortillas with pork, black bean puree, and cheese.  If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also order the Chapulines, the fried grasshoppers.  Happy Hour is from 3pm – 7pm, Monday – Thursday and 3pm-6pm on Fridays. 
25 W San Fernando St San Jose, CA 95113 

Village California Bistro and Wine Bar: One of a few wine bars along Santana Row, you can either sit along the bar counter or tuck away into a comfortable booth.  Browse the wine list or request a recommendation from the sommelier, as this place is a bit upscale.  Wines by the glass are $6 during Happy Hour and $3 for selected cocktails, such as the Skyy Raspberry or Cherry Lemonades.  Either way, don’t miss out on ordering from their decadent dessert from the regular menu – anything from chocolate to crème brulee to rich bread pudding.  This place also offers a good selection of dessert wine to finish up the evening.  Happy Hour is daily, from 3pm – 6pm (food menu starts at 3:30pm).    
378 Santana Row, #1035, San Jose, CA 95128

El Jardin Tequila Bar & Restaurant: This outdoor bar and patio is right in the middle of Santana Row and is the spot to be when warm weather beckons.  Shaded by a large California Oak Tree, with festive lights, and plush seating on wicker chaise lounges recalls lazy afternoons or a fun backyard party.  You can enjoy evening live music, such as Mariachi, from Wednesday – Sundays over sangria and fresh ceviche with tostadas.  Happy Hour is weekdays from 2-5pm.
368 Santana Row, Suites 1050, 1060, 1070, San Jose, CA 95128 

The 2nd Floor Motif: Love the club atmosphere in downtown without the actual crowds?  Stop by pre-clubbing time for happy hour on Motif’s 2nd floor.  The hostess at the front door leads you to the VIP and private booths without the hassle of bottle service.  Drinks are between $3 - $5 and appetizers, such as the Garlic Parmesan wings, sweet potato fries, and Stuffed Mushrooms are filling for under $5.  Happy Hour is from 5 – 7Pm, Thursday – Saturday.
389 S. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113    

San Pedro Square Bistro & Wine Bar: A charming and serene spot tucked in the middle of busy downtown San Jose.  The best seating is outdoors in their enclosed and cozy patio area, complete with umbrella stands over etched stone tables, a running fountain, and surrounding vines.  Enjoy Happy Hour in this relaxing atmosphere with a $6 wine glass, such as a crisp Sparkling Rose or heavier red, while nibbling on savory and gourmet bites.  The Wild Mushrooms Crostini, Bruschetta, and Spicy Chicken Wings, glazed in their special sauce, are all delicious choices for under $6. Happy Hour is weekdays from 5pm – 7pm.     
20 N. Almaden Ave. San Jose, CA 95112 

Hukilau: You’ll find a lively Islands atmosphere at this Hawaiian restaurant with tasty tropical drinks like strong Mai Tais here. Flip-flop attire is completely appropriate here in this upbeat place, right in the heart of Japantown.  Various specials start on Two for One Tuesdays and Wahine Wednesdays (Ladies’ Night), but the best night is Tiki Thursday where drinks and food items are 50% off.  Hearty appetizers, known as Pupus, consist of the popular Spam Musubi, Garlic Fries, and Kalua Pork Cheese Quesadillas.  Live Hawaiian musical performances are at 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays.  Don a flower in your hair and say Aloha to good times with the girls.  Weekly specials last all night, starting 5pm – 9:15pm (10pm on Thursdays).
230 Jackson St, San Jose, CA 95112 

Kaama Lounge & Restaurant:  If frantically searching for parking at Santana Row is driving you to frustration, head across the street to Kaama for their happy hour.  This sleek and trendy Asian fusion lounge has its own parking lot (although prepare for $4 valet on Friday and Saturday) with plenty of booths indoors, along with a spacious bar and dance floor.  Happy Hour’s $5 cocktail specials include interesting mixes such as the Ginger Peach Tea, Thai Basil vodka Mojito, and the Orange Creamsicle.  Appetizers are bite-sized; ranging from $3 - $6, you can enjoy Rosemary Parmesan Popcorn, Pigs In a Blanket, and Three Cheese Spinach Ravioli.  Happy Hour is from 4pm – 7pm, Tuesday – Saturday.     
385 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose CA 95128

Picasso’s Tapas Restaurant:  Step into Spain at this trendy, vibrant South Bay tapas restaurant.  The candle lit ambiance, large windows, and warm colors are a great backdrop for deep conversations with a friend or two.  While there is no happy hour, you can indulge in a pitcher of delicious Sangria and a few tapas for a light meal.  Some flavorful ones to share: Pimiento de Piquillo, stuffed red peppers in a creamy lobster sauce, Almejas en Salsa Verde, sautéed clams with garlic and dry sherry, and the Croquetas de Pollo Jamon, baked chicken and chorizo with aioli sauce.  Of course, don’t forget to split the dessert, especially the indulgent sweet coconut flan.   
62 W. Santa Clara Street, San Jose, CA 95113

SingleBarrel:  San Jose’s very own speakeasy – secret entrance and all.  Around the corner from Agenda Lounge, when you spot the Barrel above a door, you’re at the right place.  Step into a world where the Prohibition era comes alive - bartenders in suspenders and page boy caps, dim lit booths, and cocktails from the 1920s.  Like Mojitos?  Try the Gin Gin Mule, ginger beer for the fizz, gin, and hints of lime and spearmint for a kick.  Bartenders create a drink for you based on your taste preferences and use fresh squeezed juices for the strong, tasty concoctions.  No Cosmopolitans here and don’t bother asking for a menu; all drinks are stored in each skilled bartenders’ repertoire.  Ordering a drink was never so exciting and personalized.     
43 West San Salvador Street, San Jose, CA 95113

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This post was created for M Magazine Bay Area, the premier lifestyle magazine for Bay Area Moms. 

No reservations for dinner?  Hit the late night happy hour at 10:30pm at this crowded, popular spot.  That’s what my friend and I were forced to do when we were met with a 1 1/2 hour waiting time during Barbuzzo’s dinner crowd at 7.  The hostess also informed us that all of the open seating is posted on OpenTable, so early reservations are recommended for dinner.  I observed that many of the Philadelphia trendy eats use OpenTable.  I earned the most points through these online reservations from eating in Philadelphia for one week than I ever did for the past 3 years having opened the account!

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I loved this amazing find so much that I ate here twice during my trip.

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On two different occasions, I enjoyed the following dishes:

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Seared Gnocchi: This entree is not available at the Happy Hour price, but is worth the experience.  The Barbuzzo pancetta and chanterelle mushrooms are blended with the smooth and subtle flavors of caramelized apple and truffle butter. 

Margherita Pizza: From the late night menu, this $10 dish comes on a thin crust with san marzanos, house stretched fior di latte, basil,  and cooked with extra virgin olive oil.  Pizza condiments include dried herbs and chili oil. 
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Sangria: I like my sangrias balanced with fruit and wine, so Barbuzzo’s version felt more like drinking a glass of iced red wine because the fruit flavor was so subtle.  The happy hour glass is only $4.

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Blood Orange Sorbet: Rich and explosive with citrus flavor. 

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Dim lit and with a simple and modern design, this place doesn’t need to be flashy because the food is delicious.

Barbuzzo is located in a trendy block on 13 Street, between Chestnut and Sansom.  It rests confidently amongst other crowded hot spots restaurants like Lolita and Bindi, a gourmet grocery store called Grocery (what else?) and the cutest gift shop supporting Philadelphia apparel and knick knacks.  I was surprised to learn that this entire 13th Street block is owned and was transformed by two female entrepreneurs: Chef Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran.  Two impressive and savvy women who love Philadelphia as much as 13th Street. 

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Barbuzzo
Center City District
110 South 13th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107-4532
(215) 546-9300

{Ruth Reichl, via Stanford University}

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I was one of the lucky ones (maybe nerd would be a more appropriate word) who nabbed a seat at the auditorium third row to hear Ruth Reichl speak.  She visited Stanford University to give a brief lecture on “The Intersection on Food, Culture, and History”, which was generously open to the public to attend.  Ruth could have delivered a talk on “How to Microwave Gourmet Leftovers” and I still would have shown up 2 hours early as I did this afternoon.

It was a great hour of her interpretation of food writing’s history and how you can tell a lot about its society through its use of food and writing.  In today’s day and age of reality food tv, food blogs (ahem, like yours truly), community reviews, explosion of cook books, taco truck twitter fever, and the organic obsession, people are more interested in food than ever before.  She points out “It’s funny that as soon as Americans stop cooking, they start to buy more cookbooks.”  We are a nation that is obsessed with reading about food and the idea of food, more than we enjoy creating it at home.  She also mentions a research that shows people cook an average of two recipes for every cookbook they purchase.  I suppose they make more of a nice shelf display.   

It was an excellent talk and from where I sat, I could see every expression on her face.  I saw the pride when discussing the success of Gourmet magazine, despite its close in 2009, and the exasperation with the Food Network.

The benefit of arriving early and sitting near the stage?  I got to see Ruth, with her voluminous frizzed hair and her warm smile, greet me as she walked down the aisle towards the podium.  Like a star-struck groupie, I let out a girlish whisper-scream “Hiii Ruth!” and waved enthusiastically at her.  The second benefit was that I got to intercept her as she was led out the auditorium to the lobby area for her books signing.   

“Hi Ruth, I just had a question for you” I said as I noticed she looked quite distracted and semi-claustrophic with the rush of people heading towards her.
“Here, I can walk with you out,” I offered with a gesture, figuring that if I wanted my 10 seconds with this food critic star, I should go towards where she needed to be.  Acting stalkerish never won over any fans. 

Walking side by side with Ruth, I finally got to blurt out my question.  It was one of three questions that I scribbled out onto my notepad in anticipation for Q&A time.  Since I was there 2 hours early, I had the mental energy and time to spare.  I wanted to make sure it was a good question; I hate it when people ask lame ones. 

“Aside from being hungry,” I started, referencing her talk’s opening quote by M.F.K. Fisher, “what do you feel are the traits needed to be a successful food writer?” 

She paused.  I held my breath as she thought for a second, waiting for the profound words to sink in.

“Be a GOOD writer!” she said emphatically. 

And then she laughed heartily, as if she’s heard this question a million times and is amused every time she hears it from a young writer. 

And then I laughed along with her, realizing that my question was pretty obvious, too.  Food and writing, what else could there be? 

There you have it my friends, spoken from the talented, successful Los Angeles Times and New York Times food critic, former Gourmet editor-in-chief, and bestselling author - be a good writer… and be hungry. 

If it got you to where you are today, Ruth, that advice is definitely not a bad place to start.  I hope that my words will someday be as meaningful and delicious as yours.