Dining at The Cockentrice

Bourbon and Pork Belly Poppers

Cheese & Charcuterie Plate

Lamb & Potato

Crispy Pommes Macaire, Crème Fresh, Parmesan, Lamb, Carrot, Onion, Parsley Salad

Meg & I

... notice the pork belly poppers are G.O.N.E.

GM Clayton Morey & Chef Kevin Ouzts

This photo is from a tv appearance on CBS Atlanta Unplugged.

Last night, I had the pleasure of dining at The Cockentrice, located at one of Atlanta's newest hotspots, Krog Market. The Cockentrice, owned by Chef Kevin Ouzts of The Spotted Trotter - the best meat/butcher shop in town btw- is more than just a restaurant. We often hear of how chefs are like artists and cooking is their medium, well, let me tell you, that statement has never been more accurate when it comes to Chef Kevin and the fine cuisine at The Cockentrice.

A true dining experience is one that seduces all the senses. My out-of-town friend, Meg and I were seduced with cheeses, charcuterie and lamb. She had a vodka, I had a bourbon and soon after that, heaven in your mouth arrived to the table, a.ka. pork belly jalepeno poppers. They were sweet and melted at first bite. The Cockentrice is known for their charcuterie so that was an absolute must. The cheeses, meats, candied nuts, honey and oxtail pate, something new Chef Kevin brought out for us, were to die for. And finally, the main course of lamb and potato, which I am a little embarrassed to admit was eaten in under five minutes because it was just that delicious and so flavorful.

The Cockentrice, has now officially become one of my favorite restaurants in the city. The food is spectacular. Culinary masterpieces from an extremely talented artist. The space and ambiance is very welcoming - chic but not pretentious and the wait staff, first class. I highly recommend a dining experience at The Cockentrice. You will not be disappointed.

"The Cockentrice is Chef Kevin Ouzts’ celebration of charcuterie and long-awaited execution of meat cookery — melding traditional and modern cooking techniques plucked from the rich heritage of the Southern United States and beyond."

fashionado

Modern Elegance: When Experts DIY

What happens when the experts DIY? You won't find it on Pinterest, that's for sure! When designer/artist Taylor Jarson of Taylor Jarson Designs created these custom tables, not only did he flex his creative muscles but made his client extremely happy. TJD was designing a swanky yet comfy outdoor space for a client and rather than shopping at West Elm or Crate & Barrel for tables, they recycled a pine tree on the property that needed to come down. How's that for repurposing the environment?! Brilliant.

Taylor Jarson explores all possibilities of design and he pushes the envelope to create originality for his clients... so with that said, how were these tables made? I asked, he told... Taylor was very generous to share his step-by-step creation of these beautiful tables. See slideshow below:

Step 1: The Design

I drew a few renderings to send to the client to make sure we were on the same page as far as overall design. The idea was to have one shorter table and a fatter table, and one taller and skinnier (you’ll find out in the next step why that didn’t end up happening). Both on castor wheels to make moving and changing the area’s dynamic easier.

Step 2:

The tree had been cut down. I supervised the cutting to make sure to get pick of the litter. I had them cut the logs to the exact size needed. Unfortunately, the biggest log in the picture was too big and heavy to use and the thin one  had a significant amount of rot in it. The two pieces left were in perfect condition, but were the same height. There went our idea of having height variation. With any sort of natural material (dead trees that are cut down being high on the list) these sort of problems will arise.

Step 3:

Use a wire brush to knock off all of the moss and mold build up. The paint will adhere to the wood itself, not to the stuff that will end up flaking and falling off.  

Step 4:

(Photo: Before & After wire brushing) After brushing the outsides and cleaning them, I sanded down the tops and bottoms with a stripping grit sand paper to get rid of any larger imperfections from the chainsaws. Finish sanding with a fine grit to get a smooth table-top finish.

After sanding, I bored out holes in the bottom of the stumps to flush mount the castor wheels. These castor wheels were 1 ¾ inch and can support up to 50lbs each. I used a 3¼ inch hole cutting drill bit to get my outer diameter, then used a series of different sized wood bits to get rid of the insides. Once I had a flush surface on the inside of the holes, I cut different thicknesses of plywood with the same 3 ¼ bit to get the tops of the tables level with the floor (logs cut with chainsaws will never be completely clean and level, so I had to do the leveling with the wheels).

After prep & construction:

Outsides are brushed, tops and bottoms sanded, wheels installed, and there’s a nice level surface to the tables themselves. I sealed before painting to ensure that any accidental painting of the tops or bottoms could be removed with ease. For sealing, use a clear waterproofing sealant. Also, seal the inside of the holes for the wheels, to prevent moisture, mildew, and mold from penetrating the wood and rotting it from the inside. Plus, the sealant on the tops will block UV rays and keep them looking good for years to come.

Step 5:

Before painting, make sure the sealer is completely dry and absorbed into the wood. Use an outdoor paint and primer-in-one, in a matte finish. It’s safe for all climates, so it won’t crack and peel in cold or hot temps (which means they can be left outdoors at all times). It also provides another sealant-type barrier to prevent mold and mildew build up, and to keep moisture out.

Step 6:

After the paint was completely dry, I did one final sanding to the tops to get rid of any stray paint strokes. One last coat of sealer and they were completely finished.

Taylor Jarson

The end result of this DIY project is modern and elegant. A stylish product that can't be found anywhere because they're one (two) of a kind! They are truly statement pieces. Thank you Taylor Jarson Designs for sharing your creativity, talent and skills with us all.  

fashionado

What's New & Next at The Shops Buckhead Atlanta

Tom Ford

NARS

Lindbergh

American Cut

Denim & Soul

COS

Furgeson

Dior

Urbana Spa

THE SHOPS BUCKHEAD ATLANTA ANNOUNCES WHAT’S NEW AND NEXT IN 2016

The Shops Buckhead Atlanta is proud to announce the addition of several new ultra-luxe retailers and restaurants in 2016. The success of this walkable city sanctuary continues to draw some of the world’s most desirable brands.

“By adding these unique retailers and restaurants, The Shops Buckhead Atlanta will continue to set the bar as the most sophisticated and luxurious shopping destination in the South,” says Mary Kathryn Wells, Director of Marketing for The Shops Buckhead Atlanta. “As we continue into 2016, we anticipate the announcement of more new and notable additions to our world-class space.”

Upcoming openings at The Shops Buckhead Atlanta include:

Denim & Soul NOW OPEN - Denim & Soul designs and fabricates all of their garments and accessories to offer one-of-a-kind luxury goods at direct-to-consumer prices. Denim & Soul is known for beautiful garments, bold accessories, bright colors and brilliant basics. The apparel blends modern American ideals with eternal European styling and French accents. The Shops Buckhead Atlanta is home to the first Denim & Soul boutique in Atlanta. www.denimandsoul.com

Tom Ford - Tom Ford will bring his vision of modern luxury to Atlanta. The boutique will carry the complete range of TOM FORD men’s and women’s ready-to-wear and accessories, eyewear, fragrance, beauty and fine jewelry. www.tomford.com

Dior – A brand with a long-held reputation for Parisian elegance and quality, this Dior store is the first in the market and will carry men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, perfume, and cosmetics. www.dior.com

Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, & Lighting Gallery – This gallery is a wonderland of kitchen, bath, dining, lighting styles and new solutions from top brands, beautifully displayed in a welcoming, hands-on environment.www.ferguson.com

Lindbergh - From Denmark, Lindbergh creates clothing and accessories for today’s informed man who is interested in acquiring a wardrobe that fits with every part of his life. Merchandise is divided into the “black label,” which is their preppy and classic formal collection, the “blue label,” featuring a more rugged and casual collection, and the “white label,” the more formal collection at Lindbergh consisting of shirts, suits, jackets and knits, perfect for any and every occasion. www.lindberghshop.com

American Cut - American Cut pays homage to the original and aspirational New York dining experience, the steakhouse. LDV Hospitality and chef partner Marc Forgione, capture the nostalgic glamour of yesteryear and adapt this ambiance to today’s modern social life through this concept. www.americancutsteakhouse.com

Urbana Spa - Experience a calming oasis that feels worlds away from the stresses of everyday life. Urbana Wellness Spa offers the finest in massage therapy, spa treatments, skin treatments, energy therapies, and yoga sessions.www.urbanawellnessspa.com

NARS Cosmetics- NARS Cosmetics provides women with a full spectrum of classic and fashion colors and innovative products from which they can build their makeup wardrobe and express their individual styles. Wearable, translucent, concentrated color allows women to experiment with a full range of hues, each compressed to reach maximum density creating the rich, intense shades imagined by François NARS. NARSskin offers women a collection of products delivering the benefits of nature, utilizing exclusive technology. www.narscosmetics.com

JOIE - Since its inception in 2001, JOIE has been one of the most sought after contemporary brands catering to the savvy, fashion-minded, modern woman. Understatedly chic, JOIE’s designs are constantly inspired by the Southern California lifestyle and its casual, yet sophisticated way of life. Originally known for its signature cargos, JOIE has emerged as a lifestyle brand, a complete collection of ready-to-wear and accessories.www.joie.com

Kit & Ace – Kit & Ace is an apparel brand founded in 2014 by the former lead designer of Lululemon Athletica Inc., Shannon Wilson, and her stepson, JJ Wilson. The company is best known for producing machine-washable Technical Cashmere clothing and accessories. www.kitandace.com

FlyWheel - Created by Ruth Zukerman, legendary instructor and one of the driving forces behind the indoor cycling phenomenon, Flywheel offers an unmatched competitive outlet, technology, and results.www.flywheelsports.com

Groomed - A specialty, local and luxury Barber shop created to satisfy male client needs ranging from a hot lather shave, beard trims and haircuts.  Their quality and dedication to customer service is what places them above the rest.

COS – COS (sister company to H&M) is a fashion brand for women and men who want modern, functional, considered design.  Offering reinvented classics and wardrobe essentials, they create pieces that are made to last beyond the season. Traditional methods and new techniques merge to form timeless, understated collections.  Since launching in 2007, they have opened stores worldwide in carefully considered locations, applying an architectural design concept that preserves buildings’ original features whilst creating a modern, welcoming space. www.cosstores.com

fashionado​

KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR RIGHT WITH THE PERFECT GENTLEMAN LIVE

*This event has been cancelled!*

Men everywhere can cross one off their resolution list with The Perfect Gentleman LIVE, the U.K.’s highly acclaimed master class series, that will give them a chance to gain the gentleman's advantage in romance, business and life. Taught by leading lifestyle experts, this two-day comprehensive series of interactive seminars is guaranteed to empower and encourage them to be gentlemen in their daily lives. The Perfect Gentleman is kicking off their master class series tour in Atlanta on January 23rd, 2016. As people are starting to think about their New Year’s resolutions, we thought this would be a great fit for those thinking about brushing up on their style, grooming skills, or looking to impress that special someone with fun interactive workshops and events. The founder Zach Falconer-Garfield is known for giving great fashion tips and tricks to men all around the world.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit http://www.theperfectgentleman.tv.

fashionado

Top 10 Adventure Travel Trends for 2016

Top 2016 Adventure Travel Trends & Tips From Exodus Travels

Forecasts peg the jungles of India, Cecil the lion’s legacy, advice for workaholics & more... Exodus Travels is poised to lead the way into a new era of travel that is quickly becoming defined by an adventurous spirit, a search for locals-only experiences and a willingness to brave the unexplored. With 42 years of experience and tours in over 100 destinations around the globe, Exodus’ globetrotting experts always have their fingers on the pulse of what’s next.

From country comebacks to blockbuster jet-setting, here are Exodus’ top 10 adventure travel trends & tips for 2016:

1. The Cecil Effect - African Conservation Safaris

Last year’s global outcry over the killing of Cecil the lion has put the fate of wildlife tourism under the microscope. Exodus anticipates Botswana will see a rise in bookings, with safari-seekers choosing to spend their tourism dollars in this southern African country, which has made a serious commitment to wildlife and environmental preservation. If a chance to spot the Big 5 wasn’t reason enough to go, Botswana celebrates 50 years of Independence in 2016.

2. Jet-Setting – The Jungle Book

From Indiana Jones to the Hobbit, the biggest Hollywood hits always motivate travelers to jet-set to exotic new locales. India’s jungles and animals will steal the show in 2016 with the release of a new adaption of Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. With a star-studded cast of Bill Murray, Idris Elba, Scarlett Johansson, Christopher Walken and Lupita Nyong’o, India’s tiger and safari parks are destined to be one of the year’s travel blockbusters.

3. Unveiling The Treasures Of Iran

With Mahmoud Ahmadinejad out of the political picture and travel sanctions lifted in 2015, Iran has recaptured the attention of globetrotters who’ve been waiting to tick it off their bucket list. The world’s finest Persian architecture and historic sites, bustling bazaars, artistic masterpieces, mind-blowing cuisine and hospitality steeped in ancient traditions promise an extraordinary adventure.

4. Extreme Wellness Holidays – Not For Wimps

Forget about yoga, spa and wellness retreats, 2016’s travellers are asking for rigorous, physically demanding and mentally challenging adventures that focus on extreme biking and trekking. Exodus has seen a huge spike in bookings that take the ‘wellness concept’ to a whole new level with full force adrenaline expeditions, such as biking in remote Madagascar and the Alpine Cols of the Tour de France or climbing volcanoes’ in Indonesia and the Three Peaks of Ladakh.

5. Time Off For Travel = ROI

Workaholics, listen up. Studies show that employees who regularly take overseas vacations are more energized, creative and ultimately more productive in the workplace. Some companies, like LinkedIn, are even offering unlimited vacation policies as a way of encouraging its passport-ready staff to seek new challenges, find inspiration and reduce burnout.

6. Cuba Calling

In 1961, the U.S. severed its relationship with Cuba and pursued a covert operation to overthrow the Castro regime. Fast forward 54 years later and the two nations have agreed to normalize ties. Remember there’s more to this Caribbean archipelago than palm fringed beaches, colonial architecture, classic cars, and mojitos. In 2016, Exodus draws the curtain back with new experiences like staying with local families, Hemingway haunts, the limestone karsts of Vinales Valley and caves linked to the 1962 Missile Crisis.

7. Eastern Europe’s Road Less Traveled

Europe buffs are moving further east to uncover a welcome refuge from the well-trodden paths of Italy, France, Croatia and Switzerland and to immerse themselves in a collision of ‘east meets west’ cultures. Cycle through Romania’s rolling hills, gaze wide-eyed at Bosnian architecture or test the waters in Slovenia with a week of whitewater rafting, canyoning and mountain biking on the banks of the Soca River.

8. Rise of the FST (Female Solo Traveler)

Women travelers have tipped the tourism scales in the last couple years and Exodus saw a huge 40% increase in their number of female solo travelers in 2015, a trend that is gaining momentum in 2016 because of social media and the added safety provided by experiential group travel. P.S. Exodus’ solo tours do not have a single supplement and upgrades to private rooms are available for as little as $20 a night.

9. Self-Guided + Stress-Free

With so much to absorb whilst seeing the world, it’s sometimes best to take it all at your own stride. Independent travelers can now have it all: the seamlessness of an organized tour combined with the privacy, freedom and flexibility of a self-guided trip. Set your own agenda while someone else worries about the bag transfers, where to sleep and the always important 24/7 support. Exodus has seen a spike in bookings that combine the carefree ease of guided group travel with the independence of going it alone.

10. Winter Travel

As mercury levels drop and the snow starts falling, travelers are opting out of fly and flop beach vacations and, instead, taking advantage of the smaller crowds, cheaper rates and unique thrill-seeking activities, like snowshoeing, northern lights, ski touring and dogsledding, that the winter season offers.

fashionado

Happy New Year 2016!

I have a pretty optimistic approach to life. Always have. That feeling is always magnified this time of year. "Letting Go" will be my mantra in 2016. I've been embracing the concept for a long while but after turning fifty last November, I decided it's time to put into practice the act of letting go. It's a mindset, that's all.

 This is not a New Year's resolution nor is it meant to foster negativity. Instead, it's all about personal happiness, fulfillment and quality of life. Sure, there will always be some level of stress surrounding us, i.e. work, traffic... but we are the architects of our lives and we're in control of how much influence others have on it. We often try to make others "happy" at the expense of our's. It's OKAY to say "NO."

So I've just shared something personal. But it is something that is within my reach and will make me a happier, better person. What will make you happy? How will you attain it? Make. It. Happen.

[Professionally] I've been laying the groundwork for exciting projects and events in 2016. Expect more content on fashionado this year in fashion, music, art and personal opinion. I'm loving my job as an adjunct professor in fashion at the Art Institute of Atlanta and I'm eager to see where this takes me - for sure NYFW and Charleston Fashion Week! And finally, but certainly not least, Doggies on the Catwalk 2016! Last year's event set the tone with our upscale move to The Shops Buckhead and this year's event, slated for early June, promises to be even more fabulous!

I wish everyone a very happy, healthy and loving new year!

fashionado

Best of 2015

2015 was a fabulously busy year for fashionado. From travel to Cuba to designer runways to epic music festivals, we were in the thick of it and loving it. I went through more than 300 posts to select my top ten. It wasn't easy! After the slideshow below, there are ten links to my 2015 faves. Thank you to all for the loving support. Happy New Year! xo

Doggies on the Catwalk

Havana, Cuba

Raf Simons Dior and I

Jeffrey Fashion Cares

Libby Langdon's Last Minute Holiday Decorating

John Galliano Margiela

Interview: Iris van Herpen High Museum

Erik Rosete's Mister Triple X

Pitti Uomo

Armin van Buuren TomorrowWorld

We moved on up to Buckhead, The Shops Buckhead to be exact! This was a major year for Doggies on the Catwalk: new upscale venue, amazing designers and a huge audience. Our collective efforts raised more than $37,000 for the Atlanta Pet Rescue. DOGGIES ON THE CATWALK

While Cuba continues to be in the news, on a more personal level, I've travelled to Cuba twice now to visit with my elderly father. We spent 43 years apart. CUBA

This was a big year for Jeffrey Kalinsky. As a celebration of twenty-five years at Phipps Plaza, Jeffrey Fashion Cares held their annual bash and runway show at Phipps. The fashion was behind amazing! JEFFREY FASHION CARES

The third annual TomorrowWorld got to a rainy start and only got worse, but hey, we made the best of it. When we couldn't get to the festival grounds on Sunday, we met up with Armin van Buuren in his hotel suite for an interview. Not too shabby! ARMIN VAN BUUREN AT TOMORROWWORLD

This is one of the best fashion films I have seen. Beautifully shot and a good story told. Inspiring and moving.  DIOR AND I / RAF SIMONS

In big fashion news, we saw the "return" of Galliano. JOHN GALLIANO FOR MAISON MARGIELA

One of my most popular features... designer Libby Langdon shared last minute decorating ideas for the home. LAST MINUTE HOLIDAY

New York, LA, Miami... Erik Rosete's Mister Triple X is a fashion powerhouse that is making its mark on the industry with stellar runway shows. I hope to catch up with them in 2016 at NYFW. MISTER TRIPLE X

The first ever fashion exhibit at the High Museum of Art. I had the privilege of interviewing the curator of this groundbreaking show. The show is stunning. IRIS VAN HERPEN AT THE HIGH

The way men should dress. See for yourself. THE BEST OF PITTI UOMO

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