Reviewing the “Swankey” Wine Tote, a “Supersized” PortoVino Wine Purse!

May 28, 2021 by evebushman

Who likes swanky purses? One that can fit up to FOUR BOTTLES OF WINE, with a liner and a spout! The “Swankey” Wine Purse is the latest from the Porto Vino Wine Purse company and I absolutely adore it! When I did this video the opened pouch on the outside of the purse looked like it was talking at me! I loved all of the different prints to pick from and chose this bright baby as I thought it would look good by my swimming pool, with nice chilled wine in the outside pouch and goodies kept cool on the inside! How does it look to you?

Come to find that the new swanky purse came with an extra-large insulated lining and pour spout, much like my first purse from this company, that is easily “hidden” from unwanted viewing. It’s convenient and a conversation piece – if I choose to share what I’ve got! Love that I can use just like a regular purse as it’s plenty roomy inside for everything I normally carry. But now I can normally carry…wine! Along with that, the insulated interior allows me to store plenty of food and drink inside the bag, while I store wine in the hidden panel outside. I am now picnic, pool and party ready!

The press release with more information is below:

PORTOVINO WINE PURSE ACQUIRES THE SWANKEY BEVERAGE TOTE BAG, THE PERFECT, BIGGER SIZE, ADDITION TO THEIR COLLECTION OF CONVENIENT AND FASHIONABLE WINE PURSES

Phoenix, ARIZONA -The time to expand the PortoVino Wine Purse collection has come. The “fashion meets functionality” company recently made a super-size addition to their already incredible collection of wine bags by acquiring the Swankey Beverage Tote Bag.

Portovino, the Wine Lover’s go-to purse brand, allows you to discreetly store and pour up to 2 bottles of wine, or your favorite drink “on the go”, and the new addition to the collection, now brings even more to the table. The Swankey Tote, or as we like to call it, the Supersized PortoVino, not only allows you to fill up the included beverage pouch with up to 4 bottles of wine or 3L of any beverage hot or cold, but you can also insert and 3L boxed wine pouch in it. This new Swankey is designed with a built-in cooler, so you can fill it up with a 6 pack of cans and all of your picnic items. It is essentially your everyday bag with a stealthy cooler attached all while adding a stylish pop of color to your outfit and making life much easier. You can bring the Swankey Tote bag with you to all kinds of events, filling it up with water for hot days, mixed drinks for festivals, or cold brew for busy moms on the go.

Much like the PortoVino, The Swankey Tote is your everyday bag but unlike your average everyday bag, it has a secret, zippered, and insulated compartment for the wine pouch that is separate from the actual bag. The Swankey’s compartment is designed like its own cooler and is big enough to store the 3-liter capacity beverage pouch that is included with each tote, or you can easily replace it with any of the smaller 750ml or 1.5L beverage pouches that PortoVino offers and have extra room for any snacks you’d like to keep cool. The Swankey can dub as a cooler for anything you would like to keep cold or hot. The value is unbeatable, and just like the rest of the PortoVino Wine purse collections, the Swankey Tote also includes a flap that covers the pouring spouts, as well as interior pockets that can hold your phone, keys, and your mask while you take a quick sip.

Not only will you now be able to choose whether you want a more formal leather purse or a fun and colorful one with an assortment of different patterns to choose from, but you will also be able to choose by capacity. Portovino allows you to choose between 1 bottle or 2 bottle pouches, and now with the amount of space in the Swankey Tote you’ll have enough wine to provide for all of your friends. Whether you decide to utilize the function of taking your wine on the go or using them as your favorite fashion accessory for everyday use, you will always create a buzz, so pick your poison and be ready to be everyone’s official favorite friend.

About PortoVino

The PortoVino purse, which notably stores and pours up to 2 bottles of wine from a secret insulated compartment, is making fast strides in the fashion industry. Since their 2017 launch, their collection has more than tripled with fashion accessories ranging from their classic vegan leather wine bags to their trendy messenger bags, to their insanely popular Double Pour Tuscany totes. There is truly something available for everyone’s personal style esthetic.

PortoVino is also socially conscious, and since 2016 has partnered with Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) organization. FMSC is a Christian based non-profit organization that coordinates the packaging and distribution of food to people in developing nations. Since 1987, it has reached out to more than 70 countries. For every PortoVino purse purchased, one meal is donated to Feed My Starving Children.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Antlers at Vail Announces New Stay and Après-ski Lodging Package Offering Complimentary In-suite Charcuterie and Spirits

January 31, 2021 by evebushman

VAIL, COLO. (PRWEB) – Après is that special time after a day on the slopes where you unbuckle the boots, kick back, have a snack and enjoy a favorite beverage while recounting the day’s highlights. The tradition has become an integral part of a Vail, Colorado, ski day and while the look may be a little different this year, the Antlers at Vail hotel is offering a new package that allows guests to create their own more intimate but equally enjoyable end-of-day scene. With the Rooms, Boards and Bottles – Stay and Après package, guests can return after a day of fun in the snow to a private après-ski experience with a chef-prepared charcuterie board and wine or local beer to enjoy in the comfort of their own spacious condominium complete with a crackling gas fireplace, flat screen TV and a private balcony to take in the fresh mountain air and views.

Located close walking distance to Vail’s Eagle Bahn Gondola, the Antlers offers a convenient and amenities-filled option for travelers to stay, play – and now après – in Vail. The individually decorated condominium suites range from studios to four-bedroom units, each featuring a fully equipped kitchen, dining area and a comfy living room space to stretch out in and relax after the best of winter outdoor activities. Antlers Stay and Après guests can enjoy the ultimate in-suite experience with Chef Barry’s fabulous complimentary après-ski charcuterie board, arrayed with a hearty assortment of cheese and meat, chicken and tuna salad, pickles, olives, vegetable crudité, hummus, gluten-free crackers and sliced baguette, all paired with a bottle of wine or six-pack of Colorado craft beer.

Forget fighting for a table or waiting for what feels like an eternity for that well-earned drink. At the Antlers, the après experience begins upon your return to the suite. And a chance to warm up and soothe sore muscles from a day of Colorado skiing is as close as the Antlers at Vail’s two creekside hot tubs accompanied by the year-round heated outdoor pool.

The new Rooms, Boards and Bottles – Stay and Après package at Antlers at Vail starts at $932 plus tax for three nights in a studio suite (and, as always, NO resort fees). The package is available in any of the Antlers condominiums from studio to four-bedroom, with additional nights available at a 15-20% discount. Note that Vail skiing is by reservation only for the 2020/21 season, with priority given to Epic Pass holders (day as well as season passes available; check here on Vail.com for info and reservations).

As for guests who wish to enjoy more than one après-ski experience in their private Antlers residence, local restaurants such as Garfinkel’s, with its traditional American pub food, and El Sabor, with authentic Mexican cuisine, will deliver their popular après offerings to the Antlers front desk. Or guests can bring their own fixings to prepare DIY après snacks and meals in the suite’s full kitchen stocked with all the cooking essentials. And share the fun with others using the #AntlersApres hashtag for a chance to win a free night’s stay at the Antlers at Vail.

The Antlers is a notoriously family-friendly hotel (pet-friendly too by advance reservation), so guests can rest assured that the whole crew is welcomed, and the staff goes above and beyond to ensure the comfort and safety of guests with an extraordinary list of amenities and with strict cleaning and safety measures in place.

About Antlers at Vail
The Antlers at Vail offers a relaxed Vail lodging experience in a fabulous mountain setting. In addition to being awarded Vail’s highest-level Platinum lodging rating, the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence and GreenLeader status, Antlers has received a wide range of media coverage, including being named a Sunset “Stellar Pet-Friendly Hotel,” a best place on the planet to “Live (for a While) as a Digital Nomad” by Outside magazine, and family travel blogger kudos as both a “Best Ski Hotel for Families” and a best “Summer Camp for Families.” With condominiums ranging from studio suites to four-bedroom penthouses, every Antlers unit enjoys a fully equipped kitchen, fireplace, balcony and complimentary Wi-Fi and covered parking. The Antlers is once more offering complimentary daily housekeeping for the winter season. For more information as well as any updates on coronavirus protocols visit http://www.antlersvail.com.

New ‘Sabores de México’ Tasting Experience Featuring Regional Mexican Cuisine and Spirits Coming January 1 to Casa Velas

December 23, 2020 by evebushman

PUERTO VALLARTA, MEXICO (PRWEB) – Beginning January 2021, travelers visiting Casa Velas in Puerto Vallarta can embark on a culinary adventure across the country with the boutique hotel’s new ‘Sabores de México’ tasting experience. Led by Executive Chef, Isaac Esparza, the new offering provides an exclusive look into culinary traditions from five regions in Mexico: Jalisco, Michoacan, Durango, Chihuahua, and Oaxaca. The curated tasting menu is available at the hotel’s Emiliano restaurant, surrounded by native fruits and vegetables in its botanical garden, or oceanfront at its luxury Beach Club. Highlights of the different dishes consist of popular Mexican ingredients such as corn, coriander, mole, and mezcal. Specialty cocktails made from lesser-known Mexican spirits such as Sotol, Charanda, and Pulque complement Mezcal and Tequila as complements to specific dishes.

The first dish served off the curated menu is tuna tlayuda with serrano pepper rings, creamy avocado, peeled orange slices, coriander leaves, and maguey salted worm paired with an Ometochtli cocktail with Pulque; Next, a citrus and fresh berries green salad with “palanqueta” peanuts, mint vinaigrette and bittersweet chocolate sauce is paired with a Raramuri Sunset cocktail with Sotol. The following dish is a corn gordita filled with octopus and pork with green sauce, avocado, fresh cilantro and cured onions served with a Sangre Cora cocktail with tequila. Then, guests will enjoy a Pastor-style salmon served over avocado mousse with grilled pineapple salad, red wine onions, and pineapple purée paired with a mezcal-based Oaxaca in the bar cocktail. Lastly for dessert, guests will be indulged with chocolate mousse with “mole” sauce and nut powder paired with Café de Olla with Charanda.

Reminiscent of a Spanish hacienda and just 5 minutes from Puerto Vallarta International Airport, the luxury all-inclusive property features 80 spacious suites, some with private pools and Jacuzzis. Nestled on the greens of Marina Vallarta’s 18-hole golf course, Casa Velas features deluxe amenities and inclusions such as:

discounted golf;
rejuvenating spa treatments at ABJA Spa;
unique wellness experiences and private workout classes;
international cuisine from one of the area’s leading chefs;
and more.

Special offerings exclusive to the resort include its handbag bar where guests can enjoy use of a “loaner” designer handbag at no extra charge, a botanical garden where guests can hand pick ingredients for cocktails and their personalized menus, among others.

Velas Resorts have received the global safety stamp of approval from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) due to its state-of-the-art safety and cleanliness protocols detailed in a 15-page Stay Safe with Velas program. Sanitizing mats and booths, touchless hand sanitizing dispensers, increased cleaning and sanitation with both EPA-chemicals and UV light, and special COVID-19 training for staff are examples of protocols being implemented by the resort collection.

The Sabores de México tasting costs $150 USD per person. Guests must book the experience at least 72 hours prior to the event. All-inclusive resort rates start at $221 per person per night based on double occupancy. At Casa Velas, luxury accommodations, gourmet meals, premium liquor and wine, 24-hour suite service, use of the fitness center facilities, WIFI, taxes, and gratuities are included in the nightly rate. With a minimum booking of 70 suites and a minimum stay of 4 nights, the nightly buyout rate is $49,420 USD per night. For more information on Casa Velas, please call 1-888-407-4869 or visit http://www.hotelcasavelas.com.

About Casa Velas
Casa Velas is a luxury all-inclusive boutique hotel with pool and Beach Club for adults only in Puerto Vallarta. Reminiscent of a Spanish hacienda, the hotel features 80 spacious suites, some with private pools and Jacuzzis. Nestled on the greens of Marina Vallarta’s 18-hole golf course, this Puerto Vallarta hotel offers guests a 25% discount on green fees. Its serene, exclusive setting provides an ideal backdrop for a Puerto Vallarta wedding ranging in size from 2 to 300. ABJA Spa encompasses treatment rooms for singles and couples, a hydrotherapy area, garden-view fitness center equipped with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, and a beauty salon. A novel service is a handbag bar where guests can enjoy use of a “loaner” designer handbag at no extra charge. Emiliano restaurant is in the hands of one of the area’s leading chefs serving Mexican and international cuisine. Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, operates Velas Resorts with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. Explore tips, recipes, lifestyle and travel trends, and the latest news about Velas Resorts on the digital mag: https://velasmagazine.com.

Vintage Eve Circa Jan 2018: Call it What Happy Hour Really Is…A Precursor For Dining in Our Old Age (With new photo of courtyard at Salt Creek Grille!)

July 14, 2020 by evebushman

I was at one of my regular Happy Hour haunts, The Social in Newhall, when I noticed that the bar was completely packed at 5pm, much like it is at Olive Terrace Bar and Grill and Salt Creek Grille when we venture over to the other side of the valley and Le Chene when we want to go even further.

And then I noticed that the people that were packing these bars weren’t 20 somethings…not even 30 somethings…they were people that have “cultivated” their palates for a couple of decades longer than that.

There are lots of great Happy Hours all over Awesometown and we used to do a round-up of their menus annually just to share what they offer. (The last one is our 2016 version you can read here.) The four that I mentioned just happen to be the ones we have been going to of late…at least the past 10 years or so.

So why do we prefer these bars over others? They aren’t particularly loud or noisy, have comfortable seating and, as drinking at 5pm is a precursor to dining at 6 or 7, it seems to work for our seasoned age group.

Of the Happy Hours we go to – the ones that specifically were full very early in the evening – they also offer small bites for free or nominal prices, and some larger plates culled from the main menu. The libations extend from beer and wine to excellently crafted cocktails; one even doesn’t offer any kind of price deal on the drinks at all, just a Happy Hour menu of food. (And that one just happens to be our favorite. Why? Well we can walk there – we’ve said this many times, and yet we never actually have walked there! It’s the neighborhood bar and we often run into people we know. The owner gives us a welcome hug, maybe a peck on the cheek, and we know some of the servers and bartenders. Maybe at a certain age we just like to feel welcome…)

So, as we dined on dishes from appetizers to pastas we noticed how nice it is to dine early, have a well-made cocktail, linger a bit, then go home and…be asleep by 9pm. (And well on our way before the young’uns took over the bars.) However many younger people do go out to Happy Hour – when we were younger these were places with deep discounts, we could get a little rowdy with pals and we would end up staying for dinner as well. (Many were/are family friendly – we weren’t really hip on the idea of bringing our daughter to a bar or winery, but to each his own.) Back in the day that meant the party was to be found at places like TGI Fridays and El Torito. (The latter, if you stayed long enough even offered dancing in the bar. Anyone else remember the Discos of SCV? LOL.)

I feel like the next step for us will be the early bird dinners at iHop, and no cocktail at all…? I hope not. I do know that older friends of mine have pulled back from wine club memberships – at least from wines that are meant to sit in our cellars for 10 years or more – because my pals in their 70s are buying more splits (half bottles), trying to drink through what they already do have and/or are looking for wine brokers to sell their wines to. They do go out…or at least join us for wine on the porch sometimes!

Life is an every changing highway. I’m hoping by the time we start dining at 4pm we’ll be in a place like Atria assisted living, where my mother has happily camped for nearly a year now, and be having cocktails by 2pm and up to two glasses of wine with dinner…now that doesn’t sound too bad does it?

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

What We’re Drinking During Coronavirus

April 17, 2020 by evebushman

Haven’t written about this yet, but it would appear that the subject won’t wait. Over the last few weeks, and possibly many more to come, our new normal has been to stay at home as it’s safer at home. While we’ve been making a small dent in our wine cellar, and an even bigger dent in our liquor cabinet, it’s made me wonder what others are doing. So I reached out to pals on social media to find out what they’ve been enjoying at home now more than ever before. (Note: Those of my friends in the industry are noted as such.)

Me, drinking and social distancing.

Joe W. “Much like you, I’ve gotten a lot of wine samples sent for review. Rose and sparkling have been personal preferences. Keep it light during these heavy times. Somehow focusing on making a variety of appetizers to eat instead of bigger meals.” (Industry)

Elana H. “We have been putting a dent in our wine cellar and liquor cabinet as well! Margaritas w/fresh squeezed Meyer lemons, Grand Marnier and tequila over ice with a salted rim. Then wine with dinner. Had a delicious 2014 Terra De Promissio Vineyard Pinot Noir from Whetstone Wine Cellars last night. During the day we have been sending out our wines to people all over the country and hosting tastings through Zoom. https://prioritywinepass.com/prime-solum-napa-valley-virtual-wine-tasting/

Michelene L. “Southern sweet tea and I have no idea why.”

Brenda R., “All the wine and spirit stores in PA have been closed since March 16. Thank God for CA wineries. Ordered some (and they) came in two days. Will have to order more.

Judi L. “Consciously unboozing limiting to, at the most, a glass of wine (whatever’s around) or one cocktail or a shot of mezcal/whiskey/rye. Oh yeah…beer…I love booze but actually not a big drinker. I’m an excellent sniffer and sipper.” (Industry)

Nelson L. “Sales and cheap shipping.”

Michael D. “We went through some great whites early on from Williams Selyem and Guy Farge that paired really well with the cheeses that we got from Lucques. Late night has been about Armagnac and Angel’s Envy Rye. I’ve also recently bottled a Brut IPA and am getting ready to brew a Belgian Tripel…(drinking) a wee bit more (than usual).

Karen B. “Finishing up the last of my 2018 Rosés to make room for the 2019s. Paul Lato 2018 in my glass right now! I was buying at cost, so helluva deal. I’m actually drinking less because we’re open just 3 days a week now and there is no social drinking or tasting with friends.” (Industry)

Nancy F. “I’m either vodka with sparkling soda, gin or vodka martini, or Negroni which are delicious and way too easy to drink! Or it’s wine. Like to switch it out as a I love all. However, the last 2 nights I started out with a fresh orange and lime juice margarita on the rocks with a salt rim…(And you may not have known that) I was a bartender for many years.

Taylor K. “Sales from local restaurants!”

Rick P. “This could be our only salvation; people are drinking all stockpiled wine. Hopefully we will see a buying surge when it’s all over. Otherwise say goodbye to a lot of small wineries.” (Industry)

Jennifer S., “Small dent in the wine cellar and a VERY large dent in the liquor cabinet. Need more scotch, whiskey and vodka. Thank goodness the liquor store is essential.”

Annette S., “Making a definite dent in the wine cellar.” (Industry)

Michael F. “Wine… Wine… & Oh Yeah; WINE! Along with some craft beers and a few fine spirits!” (Industry)

Dan C. “Old Fashioned!”

For me: Local deals from local and Paso wineries including Byron Blatty, Parhelion Cellars, Hoi Polloi, Pagter Brothers, Opolo, Thacher Winery, Hammersky…deals on wine and cocktails-to-go from The Press Room, Egg Plantation, Wolf Creek Brewery and Restaurant, Route 66 Classic Grill, Salt Creek Grille, Dario’s…Zoom tastings with our Napa friends…curbside pick-ups, free shipping and one dollar shipping incentives also. It’s all good during a very trying time.

L.A. Restaurants Introduce Baked Goods, Barbecue, Bread, Danish HYGGE, Italian, New American, Southern Soul Food, Sushi, Cocktails/Wine/Beer/ Spirits for Takeout/Delivery For Delectable Dining/Drinking at Home!

April 15, 2020 by evebushman

Drago Bakery (Culver City):

Owner and Executive Chef Celestino Drago has created a special Takeout Menu at Drago Bakery in Culver City that will feature freshly baked and freezable essentials that guests can pick-up and prepare at home. Chef Drago and the Drago Bakery team will be offering the following Takeout Menu every Monday though Friday for pick-up from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm – Fresh Pasta Package ($55) which will include a choice of Lasagna Bolognese, Chicken and Mushroom Lasagna, or Vegetarian Lasagna that will serve up to 10 guests and be packaged cold. Main Proteins such as the Chicken Breast with Marsala and Mushrooms ($80), and a Beef Stew with Red Wine & Spices ($95), will also be packed cold and serve up to 10 guests. Side Orders will feature 2-pound containers of Assorted Roasted Vegetables, Roasted Potatoes, and Brussels Sprouts with Ginger & Shallots ($18 each). Fresh Soups include a choice of Minestrone, Pumpkin, and Lentil, and will be packaged in 32-ounce deli-cups and offered cold or frozen ($12 each). Executive Chef Celestino Drago will also have plenty of Bakery Goods available such as Breads featuring a Ciabatta Loaf (1 ½ lbs., $3.50), Pagnotta Sourdough (2 ½ lbs., $5), Rustic Baguette ($2.50), and Whole Wheat Harvest (2 lbs., $5). The Cakes will include a Cheesecake ($28), and a Chocolate Flourless Cake ($28). Lastly, a selection of Fresh Breakfast Pastries will include Plain Croissants ($2.25 each), Chocolate Croissants ($3.00 each), Almond Croissants ($3.75 each), Ham & Cheese Croissants ($3.75 each), and Coffee Muffins, Banana Muffins, Walnut Muffins, and Blueberry Muffins ($3 each). To place a special Takeout Order please call Drago Bakery directly at 310.280.6004 or stop by Drago Bakery anytime Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Drago Bakery will be offering Takeout Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; 3828 Willat Avenue, Culver City, CA 90232; 310.280.6004; www.DragoBakery.com

Georgia’s Restaurant (Long Beach):

Grab a delicious bucket of savory Southern Fried Chicken for the family or any savory Southern dish from Georgia’s Restaurant at the Long Beach Exchange. Georgia’s Long Beach is offering Curbside Pickup all day and delivery through Grubhub. They are also offering incredible Family Packages featuring a Family Feast Take-Out Special with 8 Pieces of (dark meat) Fried Chicken(guests can add 2 white meat chicken breasts and 4 wings for $10); 6 Pieces of Fried Catfish, 4 Large Soulful Sides, 1 House Salad with a Romaine mix, and 6 Cornbread ($50), a Family Size Jambalaya Special featuring a ½ Pan of Gretchen’s Jambalaya with Garlic Rice that feeds up to five guests ($35); Family Bucket Special served with 8 Pieces of (dark meat) Fried Chicken, 2 Large Soulful Sides, and 6 Cornbread ($20), or the Feast for 2 Special which includes 2 Entrees with a choice of two of the following – Fried Chicken, Grilled Tilapia, Fried Catfish, Smothered Pork Chops,Blackened Chicken Pasta or Jambalaya, 4 Soulful Sides, 1 House Salad, and 4 Cornbread ($30). If guests prefer to order off the Georgia’s Restaurant Traditional Menu offering their Small Bites, Po Boys, Salads, Bowls, Sandwiches, Plate-Ups, Specialties, Soulful Sides, and Desserts, guests can never go wrong with the St. Louis BBQ Ribs, a half-rack of slow-roasted pork ribs in Georgia’s Restaurant signature house-made BBQ sauce, and a tasty Soulful Side such as the Collard Greens, Baked Beans, Mac & Cheese, Nana Gretchen’s famous Cornbread served with house-made honey butter, or her fresh Peach Cobbler for the perfect finish.

Georgia’s Restaurant is also now offering Wine and Beer for Takeout and Delivery. Wines by the Bottle feature two White Wines including the Prophecy Pinot Grigio ($18) and the Athena Chardonnay ($21). Red Wines by the Bottle include the Carnivor Cabernet Sauvignon ($21) and the Rabble Red Blend ($24). Beer is also now offered including LC Tangerine ($3.50), Scrimshaw ($3.50), LC IPA ($3.50), LC Great White ($3.50) or the LC Hazy IPA ($3.50).

Georgia’s Restaurant at the Long Beach Exchange offers Takeout and Delivery Monday through Sunday from 11:30 am to 6:00 pm; 4101 McGowen Street, Suite 115, Long Beach, CA 92630; 714.906.1900; www.Georgias-Restaurant.com

Gus’s Barbecue (South Pasadena):

Gus’s Barbecue in South Pasadena offers Takeout at all locations and online ordering through their website for both Lunch and Dinner. Gus’s Barbecue in South Pasadena offers Delivery through Postmates. Gus’s Barbecue has a special Takeout Menu at each location that can be found at www.GussBBQ.com. Guests can order some incredible BBQ for the entire family with Gus’s Real Pit BBQfeaturing Memphis Baby Back Ribs, BBQ Brick Chicken, Texas Beef Brisket, St. Louis Spare Ribs, Peppercorn Crusted Tri-Tip, Smoked Sausage and the Carolina Style Pulled Pork, each seasoned overnight and then smoked low and slow for up to fourteen hours over whole pecan logs in order to create Gus’s signature smoke flavor. Do not forget Gus’s Barbecue’s Cast Iron Cornbreadserved with jalapeño jelly and honey butter, or their Smokehouse Chili prepared with Nebraska ground beef, cheddar cheese, red onion and pickled jalapeños.

Gus’s Barbecue is now offering Southern Sangria, their Gus’s Old Fashioned and Gus’s Private Reserve Single Barrel Old Forester Kentucky Bourbon for Takeout and Delivery. Gus’s Barbecue will be offering their signature 16 oz. Southern Sangria ($16 each), their 12 oz. Gus’s Old Fashioned ($16 each), and Gus’s Private Reserve Single Barrel Old Forester Kentucky Bourbon by the bottle ($45).

Gus’s Barbecue South Pasadena offers Takeout and Delivery Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, Friday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, Saturday from 8:30 am to 11:00 pm, and Sunday from 8:30 am to 10:00 pm; 808 Fair Oaks Ave, South Pasadena; 626.799.3251; www.GussBBQ.com

Mi Piace (Pasadena):

Mi Piace, Old Town Pasadena’s neighborhood favorite known for its Italian cuisine is offering Takeout and Delivery every Tuesday through Sunday from 12:00 Noon to 7:00 pm, starting Tuesday, March 31^st, 2020. Guests can call the restaurant directly and come pickup, or they can order Delivery through DoorDash, Grubhub, and Postmates. Mi Piace will not disappoint as they have created a full menu offering many of their classic favorites such as the Calamari Fritti, Caprese Burrata and Bruschetta in the Primi Piatte section. The Insalate section offers the Insalata Mi PIace, a Caesar, and Baby Kale salad, while the Pasta section of the menu offers twelve delectable options including Mi Piace’s Pappardelle Bolognese, Ravioli Della Casa, Linguine Pesto, Fettuccine Alfredo Tartufo, and more. The Carne e Pollo section surprises with savory selections such as the Pollo Al Sesamo, Piccata Di Pollo, and Bistecca, while seafood lovers will rejoice with the Scampi, Fra Diavolo, and theFiletto Di Salmone in the Pesce section. Families can enjoy their favorite Pizza featuring the Margherita, Classica, and Old Town Speciale, or a marinated chicken, New York pastrami, or handmade meatball Panino. Finally, for those craving some decadent comfort, the Mi Piace Black Label Burger will also be offered and is prepared with a special prime rib eye and brisket “exclusive” mix.

Mi Piace is also offering Wine, Beer, Spirits and Cocktails for Takeout and Delivery. Mi Piace will offer Wines by the Bottle that will rotate “daily” and will include a Red Wine, White Wine and a Rosé. Beers will be offered individually ($4 each) or by the Six Pack ($15) including Heineken, Modelo, Amstel Light or a rotating IPA. Mi Piace is also offering Cocktails ($10 each) featuring Mi Piace’s signature Old Forester Barrel Aged Manhattan, Tito’s Handmade Vodka & Q Soda, and Hendrick’s Gin & Q Tonic. Mi Piace will also be offering Spirits by the Bottle featuring Hendrick’s Gin ($45), Tito’s Handmade Vodka ($32), and Old Forester Bourbon ($22). Also, for every Bottle or Cocktail made of Hendrck’s Gin, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, or Old Forester Bourbon purchased, Mi Piace will donate one meal to the Boys & Girls of West San Gabriel Valley.

Mi Piace will offer Takeout and Delivery Tuesday through Sunday from 12:00 Noon to 7:00 pm; 25 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91105; 626.795.3131; www.MiPiace.com

Open Face Food Shop (Los Angeles):

Open Face Food Shop’s fresh, healthy, Danish-inspired dishes will be available for Takeout for Lunch and Dinner every Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, and on Saturday from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. Open Face Food Shop will be offering Executive Chef Lene Houck’s Traditional Lunch Menu and an expanded HYGGE-TO-GO Menu which features new dinner items and boxes of fresh, organic Farmer’s Market produce. Associated with comfort, conviviality, contentment and well-being, Hygge is a quality that has long been considered a part of the Danish national character. Guests can enjoy delicious items such as Danish Open Face Sandwich Box #3: Egg Salad/Pork that offers one sandwich made with curried egg salad, leeks, and optional pickled herring, paired with another sandwich with prepared with pork loin, apple, braised cabbage, and pickles. Meat lovers are in luck with the Hakke Bøf, a Danish-style open-faced burger made with grass-fed beef, caramelized onions, shaved Brussels sprouts, and quick-pickled cucumber on top of Nathan’s 3-day Sourdough. For something sweet, Chef Lene’s Almond Cake is scrumptious and served with labneh and house-made berry jam. Open Face Food Shop will soon be offering Online Ordering and will have updates at www.OpenFaceFoodShop.com when this is available. Since quantities may be limited, Open Face Food Shop asks that guests who are interested in Dinner call 855.676.3223 by 4:00 pm for same day pickup between 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm.

Open Face Food Shop offers Takeout Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, and on Saturday from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm; 5577 West Adams Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90016; 855.676.3223; www.OpenFaceFoodShop.com

SHU – Sushi House Unico (Bel Air):

SHU Sushi House Unico will be offering Takeout every Monday through Sunday from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm to support their community and guests’ in-home dining needs. SHU will be offering a slightly reduced Takeout Menu, but guests will still be able to order many of their favorite Japanese-Italian fusion dishes. To place a Takeout Order directly, please call SHU at 310.474.2740.

SHU Sushi House Unico will be offering Takeout Monday through Sunday from 4:14 pm to 8:40 pm; 2932 ½ Beverly Glen Circle, Bel Air, CA 90077; 310.474.2740; www.ShuSushi.com

The Original Top’s (Pasadena):

The Original Top’s, a classic Pasadena institution and long-standing restaurant has been serving comforting and approachable scratch made food since 1952 and they are now offering Takeout and Drive-Thru to help feed families during this time. The Original Top’s offers Breakfast Takeout until 11:00 am which includes selections such as the Steak & Egg Burrito made with Carne Asada, scrambled eggs, homestyle potatoes, jack and cheddar cheese, and for Lunch Takeout, guests can opt for the Famous Pastrami with a slowly marinated special au jus, piled high on a French Roll mustard and pickles. For something warm and hearty, guests can order the Chili Bowl made with The Original Top’s signature chili and diced onions, Zucchini Sticks or French Fries. For something sweet, save room and order a vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry Old Fashioned Shake.

The Original Top’s offers Takeout and Drive-Thru from 6:30 am to 11:00 pm; 3838 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91107; 626.449.4412; www.TheOriginalTops.com

The Raymond 1886 (Pasadena):

1886 Cocktails

The Raymond 1886, Pasadena’s beloved Craftsman Cottage is offering Takeout and Delivery for families to share at home Tuesday through Sunday. They are offering a 10% discount on all Takeout Orders when guests call the restaurant directly along with easy Curbside Pickup. The Raymond 1886 will also offer Delivery through DoorDash, Grubhub, and Postmates as well. The Raymond 1886’s Takeout Menu can be found at www.TheRaymond.com. For some tasty comfort guests can order Starters ($12), Sides ($7), Sandwiches ($16) like The Cuban Sandwich prepared with pork belly, Black Forest ham, Dijon, mojo sauce, Swiss cheese, and pickles, served on Cuban bread with Parmesan fries; Pastas ($20) featuring he Bolognaise made with veal, pork belly, beef, rigatoni, pomodoro, Grana Padano and crispy sage, Mains ($28) including the Steak and Frites, Mary’s Chicken, and New Zealand Salmon; The Kids ($12) section includes favorites like Chicken Tenders, Grilled Cheese, and Pasta. The Raymond 1886 also knows how to feed a family and they are offering a Family Meal for 2 ($55) including 1 Starter, 1 Side, choice of 2 Mains or Pastas, or the Family Meal for 4 ($75) including 2 Starters, 2 Sides, choice of 4 Mains or Pastas, as another top Takeout choice for a delicious meal that feels homemade without all the fuss.

The Raymond 1886 is also now offering Wine, Beer and Pre-Made Cocktails for Takeout and Delivery. Wines by the Bottle ($18.86 each) feature two White Wines including the Altamonte, Pinot Grigio, Alto Adige, 2018 and the Bonny Doon “Gravitas” Blend, Santa Cruz, 2015. Red Wines by the Bottle include the Condado de Haza, Tempranillo, Ribera del Duero, 2015 and the El Esteco, Malbec, Calchaqui Valley, 2017. Beer is offered by the Six Pack ($12.50 each) including Day Beer Lager-Brewed with Czech Sass, Hallertauer Mittlefruch Hops, 4.5% ABV or the Stone Delicious IPA with Lemondrop & El Dorado Hops, 7.7% ABV. Lastly, The Raymond 1886 is also featuring handcrafted COCKTAILS-TO-GO (4 Servings – $45) created by the 1886 Bar Team and prepared in Mason Jars. The three Cocktails offered are the 1886 Negroni prepared with gin, Carpano Antica Vermouth, Campari, and orange oil, the Little Italy comprised of rye whiskey, Carpano Antica Vermouth, and Cynar, or the Fair & Warmer, a blend of rums, Dolin Sweet Vermouth, house curacao, and lemon oil.

The Raymond 1886 offers Takeout and Delivery every Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm; 1250 South Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105; 626.441.3136; www.TheRaymond.com

Via Alloro (Beverly Hills):

Via Alloro will be offering Takeout for both for Lunch and Dinner every Monday through Sunday from 12:30 pm to 7:30 pm to support the community and their guests in-home dining needs. Via Alloro will be offering a slightly reduced version of their Traditional Takeout Menu featuring Appetizers, Pizzas, Pastas, Mains, and Desserts, long with their New Signature Family Menus featuring Family of 6 Menus, Vegetarian Family Menu, and Pescatarian Family Menu, Pasta, Pasta Sauce, Drago Olive Oil, Balsamic, Sicilian Salt, Bread, and much, much more!

Via Alloro is now offering a special selection of Wines by the Bottle from their Award-Winning Wine List for Takeout and Delivery every Monday through Sunday from 12:30 pm to 7:30 pm to support the community and their guests’ in-home needs. Via Alloro will also be offering 25% OFF ALL WINE ORDERS to all guests that call the restaurant to order directly. To place a Takeout Order, please call Via Alloro at 310.275.2900 and the restaurant also offers Curbside Pickup. Guests can also order from Postmates if they prefer delivery. To place a Takeout Order directly, please call Via Alloro at 310.275.2900 and the restaurant will also be offering Curbside Pickup. Guests can also order from Postmates if they prefer delivery.

Via Alloro offers Takeout and Delivery every Monday through Sunday from 12:30 pm to 7:30 pm; 310 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210; 310.275.2900; www.ViaAlloro.com

Top L.A. Restaurants & Bars Now Offering Cocktails, Wine, Beer, Sangria and Spirits for Takeout/ Delivery For Delicious Dining and Drinking at Home

April 5, 2020 by evebushman

Georgia’s Restaurant (Long Beach): Georgia’s Restaurant is also now offering Wine and Beer for Takeout and Delivery. Wines by the Bottle feature two White Wines including the Prophecy Pinot Grigio ($18) and the Athena Chardonnay ($21). Red Wines by the Bottle include the Carnivor Cabernet Sauvignon ($21) and the Rabble Red Blend ($24). Beer is also now offered including LC Tangerine ($3.50), Scrimshaw ($3.50), LC IPA ($3.50), LC Great White ($3.50) or the LC Hazy IPA ($3.50).

Photo courtesy of Georgia’s Restaurant.

Georgia’s Restaurant at the Long Beach Exchange now offers Wines by the Bottle and Beer for Takeout and Delivery Monday through Sunday from 11:30 am to 6:00 pm; 4101 McGowen Street, Suite 115, Long Beach, CA 92630; 714.906.1900; www.Georgias-Restaurant.com

Gus’s Barbecue (South Pasadena): Gus’s Barbecue is now offering Southern Sangria, their Gus’s Old Fashioned and Gus’s Private Reserve Single Barrel Old Forester Kentucky Bourbon for Takeout and Delivery. Gus’s Barbecue will be offering their signature 16 oz. Southern Sangria ($16 each), their 12 oz. Gus’s Old Fashioned ($16 each), and Gus’s Private Reserve Single Barrel Old Forester Kentucky Bourbon by the bottle ($45).

Gus’s Barbecue in South Pasadena now offers Southern Sangria, their Gus’s Old Fashioned, and Gus’s Private Reserve Single Barrel Old Forester Kentucky Bourbon for Takeout and Delivery Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, Friday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, Saturday from 8:30 am to 11:00 pm, and Sunday from 8:30 am to 10:00 pm; 808 Fair Oaks Ave, South Pasadena; 626.799.3251; www.GussBBQ.com

The Raymond 1886 (Pasadena): The Raymond 1886 is now offering Wine, Beer and 1886 Pre-Made Cocktails for Takeout and Delivery. Wines by the Bottle ($18.86 each) feature two White Wines including the Altamonte, Pinot Grigio, Alto Adige, 2018 and the Bonny Doon “Gravitas” Blend, Santa Cruz, 2015. Red Wines by the Bottle include the Condado de Haza, Tempranillo, Ribera del Duero, 2015 and the El Esteco, Malbec, Calchaqui Valley, 2017. Beer is offered by the Six Pack ($12.50 each) including Day Beer Lager-Brewed with Czech Sass, Hallertauer Mittlefruch Hops, 4.5% ABV or the Stone Delicious IPA with Lemondrop & El Dorado Hops, 7.7% ABV. Lastly, The Raymond 1886 is also featuring handcrafted COCKTAILS-TO-GO (4 Servings – $45) created by the 1886 Bar Team and prepared in Mason Jars. The three Cocktails offered are the 1886 Negroni prepared with gin, Carpano Antica Vermouth, Campari, and orange oil, the Little Italy comprised of rye whiskey, Carpano Antica Vermouth, and Cynar, or the Fair & Warmer, a blend of rums, Dolin Sweet Vermouth, house curacao, and lemon oil.

The Raymond 1886 now offers Wine, Beer and 1886 Pre-Made Cocktails for Takeout and Delivery every Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm; 1250 South Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105; 626.441.3136; www.TheRaymond.com

Via Alloro (Beverly Hills): Via Alloro is now offering a special selection of Wines by the Bottle from their Award-Winning Wine List for Takeout and Delivery every Monday through Sunday from 12:30 pm to 7:30 pm to support the community and their guests’ in-home needs. Via Alloro will also be offering 25% OFF ALL WINE ORDERS to all guests that call the restaurant to order directly. To place a Takeout Order, please call Via Alloro at 310.275.2900 and the restaurant also offers Curbside Pickup. Guests can also order from Postmates if they prefer delivery.

Via Alloro now offers Wines by the Bottle for Takeout and Delivery every Monday through Sunday from 12:30 pm to 7:30 pm; 310 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210; 310.275.2900; www.ViaAlloro.com

Vinotemp VinCave Underground Wine Cellar Honored among 30 Most Innovative Products for 2020

March 16, 2020 by evebushman

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CALIF. (PRWEB) – Vinotemp®, the leading wine storage solutions and appliance provider, today announced the VinCave™ Wine Cellar 200 has been recognized as one of Meredith Corporation’s Beautiful Kitchens & Baths magazine’s 30 Most Innovative Products for 2020. Selected by the editors of the Luxury Home Design Group, the products featured in the coveted list were chosen for their ability to combine clever function, sophisticated style, and cutting-edge technology—the VinCave was selected for its unique, modular design and ability to efficiently cellar up to 200 bottles of wine underground.

“The smartest products are the ones that make the most sense for the way we live, work, and entertain in our homes,” says Samantha Hart, Executive Editor, Luxury Home Design Group. “Our winning products simplify tasks and deliver beauty and functionality where it’s needed most.”

Engineered to utilize the cooler, consistent temperatures found underground to properly cellar over sixteen cases of wine without coolants and without sacrificing floor space, the stainless-steel VinCave Wine Cellar 200 features a walk-over glass covering and a push-button elevation function which raises the wine collection above ground for easy access. This environmentally-friendly, efficiently-engineered design requires the cellar be installed on a flat floor surface at either ground or basement level.

“It’s an honor to be recognized among the 30 Most Innovative Products for 2020 because it highlights Vinotemp’s commitment to offering products that enhance the design aesthetic and functionality of wine storage,” states India Hynes, CEO of Vinotemp. “From cellar capacity to technology and visual aesthetics, we are dedicated to pushing the envelope in wine storage design and the VinCave Wine Cellar 200 is a perfect example of this.”

The 30 Most Innovative Products for 2020 will be featured in the spring issue of Beautiful Kitchens & Baths magazine and in the summer issue of Traditional Home magazine. Visit Vinotemp’s new Henderson, Nevada showroom to experience the VinCave Wine Cellar 200, and visit vinotemp.com to learn more.

About Vinotemp®
Since 1985 close attention to market demand and non-standard ideas have made Vinotemp® the leading provider of diversified wine storage solutions utilized worldwide residentially and by renowned resorts, restaurants, hotels, and the yachting industry. In 2019 Vinotemp expanded its product offering to include residential kitchen appliances. Find more information about Vinotemp by calling 800-777-VINO (8466) or visiting vinotemp.com.

Find Vinotemp on Facebook.com/Vinotemp, Instagram @Vinotemp, and Twitter @Vinotemp.

About Meredith Corporation
Meredith Corporation has been committed to service journalism for 117 years. Meredith uses multiple distribution platforms—including broadcast television, print, digital, mobile and video—to provide consumers with content they desire and to deliver the messages of its advertising and marketing partners. Meredith’s National Media Group reaches over 180 million unduplicated American consumers every month, including nearly 90 percent of U.S. Millennial women. Meredith is the No. 1 magazine operator in the U.S. and owner of the largest premium content digital network for American consumers. Meredith’s Local Media Group includes 17 television stations, reaching 11 percent of U.S. households.

THE 2020 NIGHTCLUB & BAR SHOW ANNOUNCES SPONSORS AND SHOW FLOOR ACTIVATIONS

February 2, 2020 by evebushman

Las Vegas— The 2020 Nightclub & Bar Show announces the highly anticipated list of show floor sponsors and activations, on the heels of Jenny McCarthy’s announcement to cut the ribbon and open the show (March 30 – April 1). During the 35th edition of the largest and most influential gathering of bar, restaurant and beverage professionals, over 500 of the industry’s most critically acclaimed brands will be present and on display throughout the three-day show. Attendees will experience sponsorship activations that show-off the newest creative offerings in the food and beverage industry.

Jenny McCarthy with Blondies ready-to-drink vodka

The 2020 Nightclub & Bar Show will feature an all new-expo floor zone – NxT– where guests will experience the next phase of the food and beverage industry showcasing the coolest creations, trends and developments in a non-traditional environment. This area will serve as the ultimate destination for any owner or operator seeking to grow their business in a whole new way. The sponsorships of the NxT area will include Heineken, Truly Hard Seltzer (with their Truly brand), American Nightlife Association in partnership with Intel, who will be bringing 40 cutting-edge hospitality startups as part of an “Innovation Pavilion,” and more.

The Food & Beverage Innovation Center, known as the go-to spot for the restaurant industry’s latest collection of innovative ingredients, technology, equipment, and beverage trends, will be sponsored by Hormel Foodservice. In addition, the Wine Café, serving as the must-see picnic themed spot for the latest wine products, will be sponsored by Wineemotion. Guests can sample the latest and coolest wine products – red, white or champagne in a glass or can and learn how these trending products can expand sales for any bar or restaurant.

White Claw Hard Seltzer, an alcoholic seltzer water beverage owned by Mark Anthony Brands, which also owns Mike’s Hard Lemonade, will also be a sponsor of the 2020 Nightclub & Bar Show.

Additional Nightclub & Bar Show sponsors include:

Dominance Sponsors:

White Claw Hard Seltzer
American Nightlife Association

Heineken
Intel
LA Fund
Truly Hard Seltzer
Experience Sponsors:

• The Middleby Corporation

Presence Sponsors:

• Blondies

In The Mix Magazine
Tequila Exotico
Open Water
Sammy’s Beach Bar & Grill
For a full list of sponsors and additional information about the 2020 Nightclub & Bar Show or more information go here.

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About Nightclub & Bar Show

Nightclub & Bar Show is owned by Questex and is the go-to resource for the bar and restaurant industry. Mirroring the fast-paced, trend-setting nature of the hospitality industry, Nightclub & Bar has been providing the specific tools bar and restaurant owners, operators and managers need to grow their businesses, compete, and succeed in this hyper-competitive and dynamic industry. Nightclub & Bar Show is part of the Bar & Restaurant Group, a division of the Questex Hospitality Group which also produces VIBE Conference, Nightclub & Bar Awards, and daily content on www.nightclub.com.

About Questex

At Questex, we are passionate about driving business outcomes. We connect buyers and sellers and help both achieve their goals. We are online, on devices and live with experiential engagements. We understand the buyer’s behavior and evolving needs and connect them with the seller through continual touchpoints. From discovery through purchase and purchase through advocacy, we supply unmatched access, insight, engagement and turnkey solutions all in one place.

Luxury, High End Finishes among Top 6 Trends in Restaurant Construction in 2020

January 15, 2020 by evebushman

PHILADELPHIA (PRWEB) – Restaurant construction is booming in the U.S. as dining establishments and eateries seek to become more relevant in the ultra-competitive hospitality and culinary world. So what will be making news in the new year? Maxim Parkhomchuk, VP of Construction & Executive Project Manager at LOTT Restaurant Construction in Philadelphia, shares his insights on some of the top trends he’s predicting will continue into 2020. Parkhomchuk gained his expertise from managing the construction of many notable restaurants including B2 Bluefin (Bala Cynwyd), Andiario (West Chester), and coming in 2020…Steak48 (Philadelphia). The LOTT team has collectively built over 400 restaurants throughout the United States since 1992. Here’s what Parkhomchuk is seeing right now in restaurant design and construction in the U.S.:

Photo from Lott Restaurant Construction’s Facebook page.

The Return of Luxury
High-end finishes, grandiose designs and exclusive materials will be making a comeback. The new 12,000-square foot Steak 48 concept currently under construction at 260 S. Broad Street in the historic Atlantic building in Philadelphia is a prime example of the swing to a luxury dining experience, says Parkhomchuk. The $7 million project he is overseeing for one of the country’s most recognized names in steakhouse culture — Michael and Jeffrey Mastro — is loaded with custom materials from abroad. “We’re talking handmade tiles from Mexico and custom mirrors from overseas. The palette of bold, rich colors and details such as gold, brass, stone and metal trims in abundance.” He says, “Companies are no longer seeking to cut corners or skimp; when it comes to the ‘show’ or overall patron experience.” In the same vein, look for textured wall coverings, materials you want to touch, and innovative materials such as acoustical fabric ceilings and highly-decorative industrial grade flooring.

Private Dining Suites
Primarily earmarked for large parties, expect to see more private dining rooms for smaller groups designed with a lot of thought. These rooms increase revenue for owners, allowing them to offer different menu options and also serve as overflow dining spaces on busy nights. Many private rooms are equipped with audio visual equipment for meetings or to display photos for parties, but the technology is so well integrated into the design that when not in use, they disappear from view. Private rooms designed as “swing spaces” with roll away doors or glass walls gives the restaurant versatility in usage.

Visible Kitchens
Open kitchens continue to be popular allowing diners to be closer to the action. Steak 48 will feature a one-of-a-kind 1,500-square foot expo kitchen with ceiling-to-floor glass wall surrounds, including adjacent booth seating peering directly into the expo kitchen. Aside from being incredibly clean and well organized due to all of the “transparency,” open kitchen concepts allow the customers to get intimate with the action and provide wonderful modes of observation.

High-tech Communication Tools
Whether it’s utilizing ProCore or EarthCam, a high-tech framework/platform for effective team collaboration on complex projects; Revit or BIM software which uses 3D modeling in every phase of the project, from concept to visualization; or high definition photo and video scanning, there’s no denying the expanding role of technology. Virtual reality is now!

Bringing the Outdoors In
This trend will continue to get better with the use of higher tech products such as retractable roofs, accordion doors, outdoor fireplaces and all-weather heaters, and all weather rooftops. Restaurants that don’t have access to outdoor space are bringing the outdoors in using greenery, large glass windows, glass walls and oversized garage doors that can remain open in nice weather.

Fashionable and Functional Wine Storage
High-tech wine cases are becoming increasingly more visually stunning design statements in U.S. restaurants. No longer relegated to the cellar, restaurant wine collections are on full display in gorgeous glass cases in the bar or dining room. It’s often a challenge to incorporate an elaborate wine storage unit into front of the house designs, and construction teams need to coordinate multiple sophisticated engineering systems – refrigeration, lighting and HVAC controls — into an esthetically pleasing and functional design. Between the orchestration of material deliveries, the coordination of trades people, and the challenges of existing space fit-outs (as opposed to new construction), the creation of fashionable and functional wine storage can be quite tricky, but the LOTT team agrees that the visual and capital benefits for operators make it well worth the aggravation.

LOTT Restaurant Construction is a full-service construction management firm specializing in restaurant development and design. LOTT thrives on bringing complex projects to completion in record time and maintaining strict cost controls. The company has opened more than 400 restaurant locations in more than 15 states nationwide. As Frank Lott says, “We equate the construction of a restaurant to that of a fine watch. It must be precise, exact, consistent and on time. That’s what we do at LOTT. That’s the only way we know.” To learn more, please visit http://www.restaurantsontime.com/.