I don’t know about you, but I really love scallops. Today let’s learn how to make amazing pan seared scallops with Chef Jason. You know what I truly think about Chef Jason’s scallops? It’s a perfect bite! Every elements just complementary ]]> Food, Travel, Lifestyle Videos — Be happy and be CiCiLicious!

 
I don’t know about you, but I really love scallops. Today let’s learn how to make amazing pan seared scallops with Chef Jason. You know what I truly think about Chef Jason’s scallops? It’s a perfect bite! Every elements just complementary with each other perfectly! Triomphe itself is a tribute to simplicity of design, with a “jewel box” atmosphere filled with quiet conversations and delicious aromas. A perfect respite from the bustling streets of the city, Triomphe lounge features expert mixologists serving one of a kind cocktails and an expertly chosen wine selections. Triomphe continues to earn high honors with a 25 for food and service in the 2012 Zagat ratings.
 
Scallop Recipe:
 
4 large u-10 diver sea scallops

4 medium porcini mushrooms sliced

1 tbs porcini butter

1 cup chicken stock

½ cup heavy cream

1 tbs chopped parsley

½ tsp truffle oil

Basil oil for drizzle

Salt & pepper to taste

½ tsp blended oil for searing
 
49 West 44th St.
NYC, NY 10036
(212) 453-4233
www.triomphe-newyork.com

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Truffle Hunting is a very exciting experience. A white truffle hunter is accompanied by….. a dog! In fact, white truffles grow under the ground, so only with dog’s sense of smell and intuition could lead us to white truffles.

12 Dos and Don’ts in Piedmont Region in Italy

It was my first ]]>

Truffle Hunting is a very exciting experience. A white truffle hunter is accompanied by….. a dog! In fact, white truffles grow under the ground, so only with dog’s sense of smell and intuition could lead us to white truffles.

12 Dos and Don’ts in Piedmont Region in Italy

It was my first trip to Italy… After not being able to sleep on the plane for 10 hours, we arrived at Turin in Italy with 6 hours of jetlag versus New York. For the first time: hearing people spoke Italian everywhere but not English; seeing Romanesque and Baroque styled building everywhere but not Skyscrapers; smelling super fresh air in the sky everywhere but not polluted air from yellow cabs.

They also say sì sì sì sì sì sì wherever I go, which sounds like I’m super popular there… CiCi CiCi CiCi! So I was no longer tired. I was so eager to discover every single detail of this region! Here are some dos and don’ts for you!

Dos:

1. 1. Bring European adaptor plug.
2. 2. Wear comfortable shoes and stylist clothing.
3. 3. Exchange dollars to euros.
4. 4. Bring Amex or Capital One cards if you have because they don’t charge exchange rate.
5. 5. Have breakfast in the hotel because most of them include breakfast.
6. 6. Go to the top of National Cinema Museum and you will see the view of the entire Turin.
7. 7. Check out the Piazza Castello, the heart of the city, where Palazzo Reale, Palazzo Madama, the Royal Library and Armoury, the Teatro Regio and the church of San Lorenzo are located.
8. 8. Drink a cup of Bicerin, a traditional hot drink for Turin, made of espresso, chocolate, and milk.
9. 9. Check out Fontanafredda, one of the most historical wine cellar in Alba.
10. 10. Join a white truffle hunting tour in Alba. It’s one of the most exciting of experiences for truffle enthusiasts. A white truffle hunter is accompanied by….. a dog! In fact, white truffles grow under the ground, so only with dog’s sense of smell and intuition could lead us to white truffles.
11. 11. Visit the International Alba White Truffle Festival. They have been celebrating the harvest of white truffles since 1929 from every early October through mid-November.
12. 12. Bring white truffles, hazelnuts, chocolates, and wines such as Barberesco and Barolo back as Souvenirs. In case you do bring white truffles back, be aware that they only last for a week.

Don’ts:

1. 1. Don’t order Cappuccino after 11am because it only serves in the morning.
2. 2. Don’t order soda with your meals because people only drink wine or water with meals.
3. 3. Don’t order Diet Coke because they only have Light Coke and it’s a girly and childish drink.
4. 4. Don’t order food to go unless is a pizza place.
5. 5. Don’t eat a salad before main course because they consider a side dish not appetizer.
6. 6. Don’t drive in Alba as they have super tiny routes and mountain routes.
7. 7. Don’t use their toilet papers too hard because most of them are harder and rougher than what we have in the US…
8. 8. Don’t go to the shops from 12:30pm to 4pm because they usually take 3 to 4 hours lunch break.
9. 9. Don’t go to the bank in the afternoon because they only open in the morning and 1 hour in the afternoon.
10. 10. Don’t give money to the baggers because then they won’t leave you alone.
11. 11. Don’t wear tank top and shorts in a Church.
12. 12. Tipping is not required. Indeed, tipping people you personally know is considered offensive.

The New York Chocolate Show is the largest show completely dedicated to chocolate in the United States. Considered the chocolate hub of North America, this show will bring together more than 65 fine chocolate companies who will present a diverse array ]]> Food, Travel, Lifestyle Videos — Be happy and be CiCiLicious!

The New York Chocolate Show is the largest show completely dedicated to chocolate in the United States. Considered the chocolate hub of North America, this show will bring together more than 65 fine chocolate companies who will present a diverse array of fine chocolates and chocolate-inspired products that tantalize the senses! This year’s Chocolate Show features book signings by award-winning authors; cooking demonstrations in two culinary theaters featuring renowned chocolatiers and pastry chefs who will share secrets of the trade; a Kids Zone dedicated to fun-filled activities for young chocolate lovers and more!

All the beauties of Piedmont are summarized and celebrated in its regional capital. Roman (the Porte Palatine remind its origins), then Romanesque, Baroque and up to modern days architecture. There aremore than 40museums hosting precious things, which are often unique specimens ]]> Food, Travel, Lifestyle Videos — Be happy and be CiCiLicious!

All the beauties of Piedmont are summarized and celebrated in its regional capital. Roman (the Porte Palatine remind its origins), then Romanesque, Baroque and up to modern days architecture. There aremore than 40museums hosting precious things, which are often unique specimens in Italy and abroad. The EgyptianMuseumis the second most important museum in the world after the one in Cairo. The Museo Nazionale del Cinema [NationalMuseumof Cinema] is one of a kind, with a vertical structure (3,200 sq. metres on 5 floors) in themagical setting of theMole Antonelliana that, with its “audacious” 167-metre height, is the symbol of this city in the world.

Turin is the European capital of Baroque, which marked the city’s cultural flourishing (Palazzo Carignano, Piazza San Carlo – the city’smeeting point, the San Lorenzo and San Filippo churches) and characterizes its surroundings (the Royal Residences, the Reggia di Venaria, the Castello di Rivoli…); but the city is also Art Nouveau, the floral style that embellishes the city’s elegant districts the villas under the hills and, above all, the cafés where the high life has been enjoyed since the 1800s. It was the capital of Italy, and today it is the city of contemporary art and design, where themost important architects in the world create cutting edge urban projects.

The Savoy monarchy was mainly “warlike”, but the use ofweaponswas alwaysmatched by a passion for art, theatre,music, parks and gardens. The court hosted architects, painters and people of letters; it organized superb parties and hunting events: exclusive leisure activities that became a point of reference for European aristocrats. There are 15 Savoy Residences -UNESCO WorldHeritage Sites – and they represent an important cultural route: five of themare in the city (Palazzo Reale, PalazzoMadama, Palazzo Carignano, Castello del Valentino and Villa della Regina), the others are in the surroundings, (e.g., the StupinigiHunting Lodge, the castles of Rivoli – hosting the importantMuseumof Contemporary Art, Moncalieri, Agliè and, of course, the Reggia di Venaria). The residences were completed around themiddle 18th Century and are also known as the “delightful crown” as they surround Turin like a ring.

There aremany facets that are the ingredients of its charm. Turin means museums, music, cinema, culture, art and spirit; but also antiques, bibliophily, and shopping. But Turin is also sweet – with its chocolate, pastries andmany other unique delicacies such as “bicerin”, cakes and candies – as well as savoury, with the traditional aperitif “rite” and typical recipes. The local cuisine has become a worldwide famous feature. The research for often unique ingredients, always natural, the creativity and ability of cooks, confectioners and chocolate makers are the basis of the local culture and passion for good food, which is represented by the many trattorias as well as luxury restaurants.

Let’s learn how to cook perfect porterhouse steak at Empire Steakhouse with Jack today!  “At Empire Steakhouse, our passionate commitment to  serving great steaks is matched only by our dedication to providing the highest-quality service.

Founded by Jeff Sinanaj, along with his ]]> Food, Travel, Lifestyle Videos — Be happy and be CiCiLicious!

Let’s learn how to cook perfect porterhouse steak at Empire Steakhouse with Jack today!  “At Empire Steakhouse, our passionate commitment to  serving great steaks is matched only by our dedication to providing the highest-quality service.

Founded by Jeff Sinanaj, along with his brothers-owners of the storied Ben and Jack’s Steakhouse – Empire Steakhouse proudly brings the time honored tradition of quality steaks to Midtown West. With a combined experience of over 25 years as former Peter Luger Waiters, the Sinanaj Brothers are experts at providing the finest dining experience.

Empire’s famous porterhouse for two is a standout. Equally impressive are the succulent seafood dishes, superb side dishes, and knockout desserts. The food is complemented by a wine list that is expansive, yet highly selective – and features many of California’s most sought-after vintages. The room at Empire is also a highlight. A temple of glass and steel, large windows and ample light abound. The overall feeling is bright, warm and inviting… all perfect accompaniments to the delicious cuisine. ”

Empire Steak House
36 West 52nd Street
New York, NY 10019
212.582.6900

Did you know that Long Beach Island is 20 mile long, located in New Jersey? Today I’m taking you to a fabulous getaway and checking out the top 5 must visit locations in Long Beach Island!

1. Viking Village It’s a commercial fishing ]]> Food, Travel, Lifestyle Videos — Be happy and be CiCiLicious!

Did you know that Long Beach Island is 20 mile long, located in New Jersey? Today I’m taking you to a fabulous getaway and checking out the top 5 must visit locations in Long Beach Island!

1. Viking Village
It’s a commercial fishing village that ships seafood internationally. This place is also in many famous movies, including “The Perfect Storm” by George Clooney.

2. Off the Hook take-out restaurant
They serve fresh seafood from Viking Village.

3. Barnegat Light Beach
Beautiful beach wave, beach fossils, and ocean sounds!

4. Minerva
It’s a special bed and breakfast, Minerva! Did you know that Minerva was a mythical ancient Roman goddess? It sounds very beautiful!

5. Barnegat Lighthouse
Climb the 217 steps to the top of state’s iconic red and white Barnegat Lighthouse for a magnificent view!

Cool Videos! Let’s learn how to make caviar from basil seeds for vegan today at Koppert Cress with Nicolas Mazard! “Koppert Cress BV started on July 1, 2002 in the Netherlands, after being purchased by Rob Baan. In 1993 and 2001 ]]> Food, Travel, Lifestyle Videos — Be happy and be CiCiLicious!

Cool Videos! Let’s learn how to make caviar from basil seeds for vegan today at Koppert Cress with Nicolas Mazard! “Koppert Cress BV started on July 1, 2002 in the Netherlands, after being purchased by Rob Baan. In 1993 and 2001 their company received the prestigious AGF Innovation Award. This biannual award was the perfect stimulant to spark further developments.

Koppert Cress has since grown to be one of the leading horticultural businesses in the world. In October, 2006, they proudly launched their first franchise in the United States. Their 30,000 square foot greenhouse is located in Long Island, New York. This strategically positioned location guarantees fresh supply across the United States.

To maintain accurate market prices, major investments in automation and modernization took place over the years. Their state-of-the-art greenhouse facilities and ongoing expansion reflects the demand for fresh, clean and outstanding flavored Micro-Greens, Micro-Vegetables and Specialties.” http://usa.koppertcress.com

Watch this cool video on how to select a fabulous bottle of champagne! Get some advices from Sparkling Pointe sword master Gilles Martin. Sparkling Pointe Winery is the only exclusive Sparkling Wine Vineyard in Long Island, NY! Located on the beautiful ]]> Food, Travel, Lifestyle Videos — Be happy and be CiCiLicious!

Watch this cool video on how to select a fabulous bottle of champagne! Get some advices from Sparkling Pointe sword master Gilles Martin. Sparkling Pointe Winery is the only exclusive Sparkling Wine Vineyard in Long Island, NY! Located on the beautiful North Fork of Long Island approximately 2 hours east of Manhattan, they currently offer four different sparkling wines all made using the traditional French Methode Champenoise. Enjoy!

Sparkling Pointe
39750 County Road 48
Southold NY 11971
631-765-0200
www.sparklingpointe.com

Did you know that Atlantic City in New Jersey has everything from shopping, entertainment, casino, fine dining, and magnificent hotels? Today I’m going to take you to the top 5 must visit spots in AC.

1. Quarter in Tropicana

At the Quarter at ]]> Food, Travel, Lifestyle Videos — Be happy and be CiCiLicious!

Did you know that Atlantic City in New Jersey has everything from shopping, entertainment, casino, fine dining, and magnificent hotels? Today I’m going to take you to the top 5 must visit spots in AC.

1. Quarter in Tropicana

At the Quarter at Tropicana, you are bound to find just what you are looking for with over 30 Atlantic City shops under one roof.

2. Fin Restaurant in Tropicana

It overlooks the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk and Atlantic Ocean. And it features locally grown food and wine from New Jersey fishermen, farmers and vintners. It’s one of the the only seafood restaurants in Atlantic City with outdoor, oceanfront seating, and you may get a glimpse of a little mermaid.

3. Resorts Casino

It’s the first casino in Atlantic City!

4. Teplitzky’s

It’s a hot spot for comfort foods. You can order hot apple pancakes at the counter, enjoy a club sandwich in the dining room, or hang out in the hide-away lounge for cocktails and snacks.

5. Sheraton Hotel

They offer luxurious rooms and a unique display of Miss America’s dresses and crown!