Luxist http://www.luxist.com Luxist http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Luxist http://www.luxist.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[<I>Travel + Leisure</I>'s Annual List of the World's 500 Best Hotels]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/20/i-travel-leisure-i-s-annual-list-of-the-worlds-500-best-ho/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/20/i-travel-leisure-i-s-annual-list-of-the-worlds-500-best-ho/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/20/i-travel-leisure-i-s-annual-list-of-the-worlds-500-best-ho/#commentsFiled under: ,

Travel + Leisure's Annual List of the World's 500 Best Hotels
On December 16, Travel + Leisure revealed its annual list of the 500 best hotels in the world. There are at least 10 properties that are new to the list this year. In addition, there are 66 properties on the 2010 T+L 500 that offer rooms for $250 a night or less. T+L editors also spotlight the 500 hotels with notable rooftop scenes, culinary excursions, and wildlife treks. You can look up hotels by region (United States as well as abroad) or get started by checking out the top 50.

Based on readers' ratings, the 2010 T+L 500 is a guide to the top places to stay in six continents and also is featured in the January 2010 issue of Travel + Leisure. Beyond the guide in the magazine, which lists each property by region and includes each hotel's score, an overall description with contact information and starting room rates, TravelandLeisure.com has added information about these top properties, including the best rooms to book, amenities, exclusive T+L 500 hotel deals, and more.

The complete 2010 T+L 500 guide is based on 2009 World's Best Awards readers' survey results. As part of the survey, T+L readers rated hotels on several characteristics including rooms/facilities, location, service, restaurants/food, and value. The complete survey methodology is available here.

The 2010 World's Best Awards readers' poll is live through March 31, 2010. Cast your vote.

LuxistTravel + Leisure's Annual List of the World's 500 Best Hotels originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 20 Dec 2009 07:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best ofhotelsjourneysmagazinet ltop 50top 500Top50Top500traveltravel and leisureTravelAndLeisureSun, 20 Dec 2009 07:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a Zappos Gift Card]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/18/win-a-zappos-gift-card/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/18/win-a-zappos-gift-card/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/18/win-a-zappos-gift-card/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Win a Zappos Gift CardWhen Zappos offered Luxist a $50 gift card, I jumped at the chance. I had a lot of fun browsing the site, which started out as a shoe mecca and now includes bags, clothing, housewares, and beauty items. The tough part was making a choice. I gave in to footwear trends and bought a pair of chocolate brown UGG boots, chipping in the rest of the price on my own, of course.

Then I thought, what about Luxist readers? So I asked Zappos if it would offer a $50 gift card to one reader, and the nice folks there agreed. Use the card to buy a gift for someone else, or for yourself. Or just save it until you need something. The card doesn't expire and doesn't incur fees.

Some other important details:
* To enter, leave a confirmed comment below.
* The comment must be left and confirmed by December 25, 2009 at 5:00PM Eastern Time.
* You may only enter once.
* One winner will be selected in a random drawing.
* One winner will receive a Zappos Gift Card valued at $50.
* Open to legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia.

See complete contest rules here.

The contest has ended. Thank you for your participation. The winner will be notified on December 28, 2009.

LuxistWin a Zappos Gift Card originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beautyclothinggift cardgift certificateGiftCardGiftCertificategiveawayhandbagsholidayshoesZapposFri, 18 Dec 2009 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[François Chocolate Bar at Mauboussin in NYC]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/17/francois-chocolate-bar-at-mauboussin-in-nyc/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/17/francois-chocolate-bar-at-mauboussin-in-nyc/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/17/francois-chocolate-bar-at-mauboussin-in-nyc/#commentsFiled under: ,

François Chocolate Bar at Mauboussin in NYCIf you live in the NYC metro area or will be visiting for the holiday season, and love chocolate, let me share with you a sweet spot I recently learned about: François Chocolate Bar. Famed pastry chef and chocolatier François Payard has teamed up with Parisian jeweler Mauboussin to open the François Chocolate Bar on the fourth floor of Mauboussin's Madison Avenue flagship boutique. Described by Payard as "a chocolate jewelry shop," the Chocolate Bar is entirely devoted to chocolate and features signature pastries from Payard as well as a new line of verrines, macaroons, and the "François Quatre Quarts" (pound cakes), along with hot chocolate, tea, coffee, and cappuccino. All the chocolate items are reasonably priced -- from $2.00 for the macaroons to $6.50 for the verrines. The Chocolate Bar also offers signature gifts.

The Chocolate Bar is running a special holiday promotion. Until December 24, customers who spend $100 or more at the store (or a bit more if ordering online) will receive a complimentary Payard signature Voyager Bag and a 15% discount at Mauboussin. One idea for how to ring up $100 is a gift basket. The Chocolate Bar's baskets range from $100 to $200, or you can customize one starting at $15. See the gallery for photos of the Chocolate Bar as well as four gift basket options.

François Chocolate Bar
714 Madison Ave. (between East 63rd and 64th Streets)
Monday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
212-759-1600

There are 11 tables of two and three seats at the bar. Save me a spot!

Gallery: Francois Chocolate Bar at Mauboussin in NYC

Francois Payard

LuxistFrançois Chocolate Bar at Mauboussin in NYC originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chocolatechocolate barChocolateBarFrancois PayardFrancoisPayardMauboussinNew YorkNew York CityNewYorkNewYorkCityNYCpayardThu, 17 Dec 2009 18:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Tips for Tipping]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/tips-for-tipping/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/tips-for-tipping/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/tips-for-tipping/#commentsFiled under: ,

It is unfortunate that holiday tipping causes so many people anxiety. We all want to be generous but need help figuring out who to tip and how much or what to give.

The golden rule seems to be that cash is king. That being said, a small gift demonstrating that you know people's likes and dislikes is a nice touch, usually best appreciated when given in addition to cash inside a card. Don't give liquor or chocolates unless you know it is a favorite item of the recipient. If you don't like to give cash there are now gift cards for everything under the sun including, Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, gas stations, local restaurants, town parking meters and more.

There are people like your nanny, housekeeper, driver or dog walker that you may depend on everyday. In this instance a holiday tip more closely resembles a corporate bonus. Depending on their length of service, cash or a gift equal to one or two weeks of salary is the minimum and can be significantly more if they are a long term employee.

Continue reading Tips for Tipping

LuxistTips for Tipping originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gift cardsGiftCardsholiday tippingHolidayTippingtipsWed, 16 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Designer Consignment at CovetShop.com]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/designer-consignment-at-covetshop-com/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/designer-consignment-at-covetshop-com/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/designer-consignment-at-covetshop-com/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Designer Consignment at CovetShop.comI've been consigning for years. I took a break for a while and tried the eBay route, but the return wasn't always worth all the work. So I'm back to consigning at a local store. They do the work, I get 50% of the sales price. No packing, no shipping, no extra fees.

Do you have designer items you want to consign? Or are you interested in buying consigned items? Try CovetShop. Hitting the main categories of clothing, shoes, bags, and accessories, the site does have high standards, such as "items will only be accepted if they are 100% authentic, seasonal, and in perfect condition" (read more here, and check out the high-end brands they "covet"), but you make 50% of the final sales price if you're a seller and are guaranteed authenticity if a buyer.

LuxistDesigner Consignment at CovetShop.com originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consignconsigningconsignmentCovetShopWed, 16 Dec 2009 07:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Holiday Shopping Tips From Grace Lockwood]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/14/holiday-shopping-tips-from-grace-lockwood/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/14/holiday-shopping-tips-from-grace-lockwood/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/14/holiday-shopping-tips-from-grace-lockwood/#commentsFiled under:

As the days tick by, Christmas is nearly upon us and many are scrambling to finish their holiday shopping. Some lucky shoppers in New York City can find help in the form of Grace Lockwood, a service which offers personalized shopping for any occasion. Grace Lockwood is directed by personal shopper and designer Kristen Coates. Coates has worked with a multitude of clients and has handled personal shopping affairs for private clients for the last five years. She created Grace Lockwood to publicly offer vendors and products she has used for years privately, showcasing the most sought-after gifts. GraceLockwood.com includes an online shop where customers have the ability to purchase gift concepts comprised of hand-selected components in various themes such as "Welcome to New York", "Decadent Delivery" and "Personal Assistant." Gifts arrive to the recipients with the finest packaging and with free delivery in the Manhattan area. They can also ship anywhere in the world via telephone or email orders. Better yet all purchases made through the online store will result in a 10 percent donation to The Global Fund for Women through the holiday months.

We asked Kristen Coates for her thoughts on creating great themed gifts like the ones that she has created for Grace Lockwood. Themed gifts show a level of personal attention and don't necessarily have to be expensive. Coates has great ideas for making even items like gift cards seem personal and special. See her tips after the jump.

Continue reading Holiday Shopping Tips From Grace Lockwood

LuxistHoliday Shopping Tips From Grace Lockwood originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>giftsgrace lockwoodGraceLockwoodholiday shopping tipsHolidayShoppingTipskristen coatesKristenCoatespersonal shoppingPersonalShoppingshoppingMon, 14 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Gizmobies Protect Your PDA in Style]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/10/gizmobies-protect-your-pda-in-style/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/10/gizmobies-protect-your-pda-in-style/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/10/gizmobies-protect-your-pda-in-style/#commentsFiled under: ,

Gizmobies Protect Your PDA in StyleWhenever I get a new cell phone, I obsess over protecting it from every scratch, but after fruitless shopping for a case that's not too bulky or too expensive or too blah, I usually just give in to the basic black leather case. Yawn. Now that I'm finally ready to join the modern era and get myself a BlackBerry, I started noticing all the cases for those and discovered ... Gizmobies. Forgive my excitement, but now NYC area residents can buy these at the Gizmobies store in Midtown or via its online store (more below).

Made of a thin yet durable gel-like material, Gizmobies provide superior padded protection, come in tons of colors and patterns, and are thin enough that your phone or PDA slips in and out of your pocket or purse easily, yet provide a great grip so that your device won't fall off a table or your lap. You can easily change skins without any trouble at all -- they peel right off, and don't leave any residue.

I recently chatted with Andrea Balkin, who owns the New York area Gizmobies franchise, and here's what I learned: Gizmobies were started about three years ago by a successful technology start-up team with the goal of inventing a product that allowed iPod and cell phone owners to customize and protect their device but keep it pocketable and enhance its aesthetics without adding bulk or weight.

Andrea noted, "I purchased a Gizmobie for my iPhone 1G at the beginning of 2009 and fell in love with the fact that my phone, my most used possession, now felt great in my hand, looked really cool, and had excellent protection! No more ugly bright pink rubber case, which got stuck in my pocket, collected dirt in it, and looked so very pedestrian.

"I loved my Gizmobie so much that I wanted to get another one, but found that there was no place on the East Coast to purchase them. A budding entrepreneur myself, I knew that Gizmobies would be an instant hit out east -- especially in the iPhone Apple mecca of Manhattan!" And so ...

If you're in the NYC metro area, you should stop by Andrea's kiosk in the Manhattan Mall, on 6th Avenue at West 33rd Street. It features more than 130 designs, with new ones arriving regularly, for most BlackBerry phones, Nintendo DSi and Lite gaming systems, Nokia N97 mobile phone, and the Apple suite of devices; iPhone, iTouch, iPod, and Nano ($20-$25). Gizmobies for laptops are due out before the Christmas holidays.

Gizmobies offer a lifetime guarantee that allows the customer to mail the product back to the company's headquarters in Las Vegas if anything should happen to the product. Gizmobies are made in the USA.

Check out the gallery for examples of the array of patterns available, and how Gizmobies look on some popular devices.

Gallery: Gizmobies Protect Your PDA in Style

LuxistGizmobies Protect Your PDA in Style originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BlackBerrycell phonecell phonesCellPhoneCellPhonesgiftgift ideasGiftIdeasgiftsGizmobiesholidaysiPodlaptopNintendoPDAphonephonesThu, 10 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Chocomize Custom Chocolate Bars]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/06/chocomize-custom-chocolate-bars/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/06/chocomize-custom-chocolate-bars/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/06/chocomize-custom-chocolate-bars/#commentsFiled under: ,

Chocomize Custom Chocolate BarsChocolate-lovers, brace yourselves: Chocomize lets you create custom chocolate treats. You pick the chocolate (dark, milk, or white, all premium Belgian), then select from more than 80 ingredients (nuts, fruit, herbs and spices, candies such as Gummies and marshmallows, decorations such as edible gold, or "other" -- try bacon!), then select one of three charities, to which Chocomize will donate a portion of its profits. Gift certificates are available, or you can join the Chocolate of the Month Club, and even order in bulk for weddings and parties. Check out their fun blog, too.

LuxistChocomize Custom Chocolate Bars originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>candychocolateChocomizegiftssweetsSun, 06 Dec 2009 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Readers' Choice Winners for Best in Food]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/01/readers-choice-winners-for-best-in-food/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/01/readers-choice-winners-for-best-in-food/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/01/readers-choice-winners-for-best-in-food/#commentsFiled under: ,


Votes have been cast for Best Gourmet Grocer/Food Hall, Best Online Gourmet Goods, Best Cheese Shop, Best Caviar Retailer and Best Bread Bakery. The Luxist Readers' Choice Award Winners are all leaders in their respective industries.

Dorothy Lane Market is the Readers' Choice Award Winner for Best Gourmet Grocer/Food Hall. Dorothy Lane Market, also known as DLM by its loyal customers, has several well-known gourmet supermarkets in the Dayton, Ohio area that are recognized for great food and service.

The Readers' Choice Award Winner for the Best Online Gourmet Food is Dean & DeLuca. Though the New York institution is now one of America's finest online grocers -- offering a wide array of food, wine and even kitchenware --- the company got its start well before the information superhighway received its first coat of pavement. Dean & DeLuca's staff travel the world in search of great artisan-produced foods.

The Readers' Choice Award Winner for the Best Caviar Retailer is Petrossian. New York City-based Petrossian has grown to become the premier buyer and importer of Russian caviar worldwide. Its Tsar Imperial label graces some of the finest Beluga, Ossetra and Sevruga on the market. To this day, the company insists that members of the Petrossian family personally select the best of every Russian caviar catch.

Zingerman's Bakehouse is the Readers' Choice Winner in the Best Bread Bakery category. The Ann Arbor, Michigan-based Bakehouse is comprised of a group of 130 dedicated foodies and skilled artisan bakers that use traditional methods to hand make all of their breads and sweets and sell to over 100 wholesale customers in addition to a growing crowd of retail shoppers.

Farmstead is the Readers' Choice Winner in the Best Cheese Shop category. A husband-and-wife team own this Providence, R.I.-based company that develops close relationships with producers and hand-select fine foodstuffs, specializing in small production, limited release cheeses. As an extension of this hands-on approach, Farmstead aims to educate its customers on the subtleties and history of cheese, offering product tastings, cooking demonstrations, and cheese and beverage pairing classes.

LuxistReaders' Choice Winners for Best in Food originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>food-awardsluxist-awardsmain-awardsTue, 01 Dec 2009 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Readers' Choice Award Nominees for Best in Food]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/30/readers-choice-award-nominees-for-best-in-food/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/30/readers-choice-award-nominees-for-best-in-food/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/30/readers-choice-award-nominees-for-best-in-food/#commentsFiled under: ,


Best Gourmet Grocer/Food Hall
The Readers Choice nominees for Best Gourmet Grocer/Food Hall include one that started out with a small store in Texas and today, has more than 270 stores in North America and the United Kingdom. An Ohio-based nominee is family-owned and operated that is recognized for its great food and service. Two nominees are New York institutions offering gourmet foods from around the world. Last, but not least, there's an opulent Food Hall in London that is known worldwide for the sheer volume and selection of its international goods all presented in breathtaking displays.

Dean & DeLuca
Dorothy Lane Market
Harrods Food Hall
Whole Foods
Zabar's

Best Online Gourmet Food
The Readers' Choice nominees for the Best Online Gourmet Food include a New York institution with a staff that travel the world in search of great artisan-produced foods. A Seattle-based nominee was launched by a group of passionate food-lovers committed to the best artisan-produced, sustainable foods while another nominee is a family-owned operation that originated from three generations of cheese importers. A Michigan-based nominee is a collection of local businesses, each with its own food specialty. Finally, the Philadelphia-based nominee celebrates the European roots of its two founders with a wide array of gourmet meats, cheeses, oils, and other goods from around the world.

ChefShop.com
Dean & DeLuca
Di Bruno Brothers
iGourmet.com
Zingerman's Mail Order

Best Caviar Retailer
The Readers' Choice nominees for Best Caviar Retailer include award-winning brands from Europe and the United States with each offering the highest of quality. Several offer some of the finest Russian caviar to be found, while one is a proponent of sustainably harvested roe with its own tank-farming system.

Caviarteria
Caviar House & Prunier
Caviar Russe
Petrossian
Tsar Nicoulai Caviar

Best Bread Bakery
The Readers' Choice nominees for Best Bread Bakery include companies that have been producing bread for decades. One opened more than 70 years ago and is now an institution in Paris, while another was launched in Belgium before expanding around the world. A Los Angeles-based nominee has developed more than 100 varieties of award-winning breads. The Philadelphia-based nominee features artisanal breads and the baked goods of the Ann Arbor-based nominee are known throughout the Midwest.

La Brea Bakery
Le Pain Quotidien
Max Poilaine
Metropolitan Bakery
Zingerman's Bakehouse

Best Cheese Shop
The Readers' Choice nominees are among the most respected shops in the world. These cheese shops, offer a full range of both international and domestic artisanal cheeses. They are the destinations for serious cheese lovers and chefs who are in search of the best.

Farmstead
Formaggio Kitchen
Murray's Cheese
Neal's Yard Dairy
Pastoral

LuxistReaders' Choice Award Nominees for Best in Food originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awards-maincaviar house pruniercaviar russeCaviarHousePrunierCaviarRussecaviarteriaChefShop.comDeanDelucadi bruno bros.DiBrunoBros.farmsteadfood-awardsformaggio kitchenFormaggioKitchenigourmet.comla brea bakeryLaBreaBakeryle pain quotidienLePainQuotidienluxist-awardsmax poilainemax poilaneMaxPoilaineMaxPoilanemetropolitan bakeryMetropolitanBakerymurrays cheeseMurraysCheeseneals yard dairyNealsYardDairypastoralpetrossiantsar nicoulai caviarTsarNicoulaiCaviarwinners-foodZingermanszingermansbakehousezingermansmailorderMon, 30 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Zappos Opens the Door to Its VIP Club, Four Days Only]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/27/zappos-opens-the-door-to-its-vip-club-four-days/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/27/zappos-opens-the-door-to-its-vip-club-four-days/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/27/zappos-opens-the-door-to-its-vip-club-four-days/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Zappos Opens the Door to Its VIP Club, Four Days OnlyShoe paradise Zappos is opening the doors to its VIP Club during a special four-day window from Black Friday, November 27, through Cyber Monday, November 30. Starting at 12:01 a.m. on Friday and lasting until midnight on Monday only, log onto to the special holiday VIP Club page and join for free, overnight shipping forever.

My love for Zappos has been documented on this site, plus all my friends and family know too. I am a hazard to my budget when I get within an inch of the site. But keep watching my posts on Luxist for more from Zappos, including great holiday gift ideas -- Zappos also carries bags, clothing, housewares, beauty items, and more -- a gift card giveaway, design contests, and more about its Couture section, which is what Luxist readers really care about, right?

UPDATE: The holiday VIP promotion has ended, but you can join Zappos's VIP waiting list here.

LuxistZappos Opens the Door to Its VIP Club, Four Days Only originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apparelbeautyclothingclubshandbagsshoesVIPZapposFri, 27 Nov 2009 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Readers' Choice for Best in Food: Vote Now!]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/readers-choice-for-best-in-food-vote-now/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/readers-choice-for-best-in-food-vote-now/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/readers-choice-for-best-in-food-vote-now/#commentsFiled under: ,


Nominations have been received and vetted for the best-of-breed in gourmet grocers, online gourmet food, caviar, cheese and bread. The Luxist Readers' Choice Food Awards will be awarded based on your voting.

Each of finalists for the Readers' Choice for the Best Gourmet Grocer/Food Hall is a leader in the industry. One started out with a small store in Texas and today, it has more than 270 stores in North America and the United Kingdom. An Ohio-based nominee is family-owned and operated that is recognized for its great food and service. Two nominees are New York institutions offering gourmet foods from around the world. Last, but not least, there's an opulent Food Hall in London that is known worldwide for the sheer volume and selection of its international goods all presented in breathtaking displays.

The Readers' Choice for the Best Online Gourmet Food nominees include a New York institution with a staff that travel the world in search of great artisan-produced foods. A Seattle-based nominee was launched by a group of passionate food-lovers committed to the best artisan-produced, sustainable foods while another nominee is a family-owned operation that originated from three generations of cheese importers. A Michigan-based nominee is a collection of local businesses, each with its own food specialty. Finally, the Philadelphia-based nominee celebrates the European roots of its two founders with a wide array of gourmet meats, cheeses, oils, and other goods from around the world.

The Readers' Choice for the Best Caviar Retailer for a Luxist Award include award-winning brands from Europe and the United States with each offering the highest of quality. Several offer some of the finest Russian caviar to be found, while one is a proponent of sustainably harvested roe with its own tank-farming system.

Nominees for Readers' Choice for Best Bread Bakery include companies that have been producing bread for decades. One opened more than 70 years ago and is now an institution in Paris, while another was launched in Belgium before expanding around the world. A Los Angeles-based nominee has developed more than 100 varieties of award-winning breads. The Philadelphia-based nominee features artisanal breads and the baked goods of the Ann Arbor-based nominee are known throughout the Midwest.

Readers' Choice nominees for Best Cheese Shop include some of the most respected shops in the world. These cheese shops, offer a full range of both international and domestic artisanal cheeses. They are the destinations for serious cheese lovers and chefs who are in search of the best.

Vote now for what you believe is the best of breed for each of these categories. Readers' Choice Awards for Food will be announced on November 30th.

LuxistReaders' Choice for Best in Food: Vote Now! originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awards-mainfood-awardsluxist-awardsTue, 24 Nov 2009 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Vote Now For the Readers' Choice Best in Food Awards]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/16/vote-now-for-the-readers-choice-best-in-food-awards/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/16/vote-now-for-the-readers-choice-best-in-food-awards/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/16/vote-now-for-the-readers-choice-best-in-food-awards/#commentsFiled under: ,

Nominations have been received and vetted for the best-of-breed in gourmet grocers, online gourmet food, caviar, cheese and bread. The Luxist Readers' Choice Food Awards will be awarded based on your voting.

Each of finalists for the Readers' Choice for the Best Gourmet Grocer/Food Hall is a leader in the industry. One started out with a small store in Texas and today, it has more than 270 stores in North America and the United Kingdom. An Ohio-based nominee is family-owned and operated that is recognized for its great food and service. Two nominees are New York institutions offering gourmet foods from around the world. Last, but not least, there's an opulent Food Hall in London that is known worldwide for the sheer volume and selection of its international goods all presented in breathtaking displays.

The Readers' Choice for the Best Online Gourmet Food nominees include a New York institution with a staff that travel the world in search of great artisan-produced foods. A Seattle-based nominee was launched by a group of passionate food-lovers committed to the best artisan-produced, sustainable foods while another nominee is a family-owned operation that originated from three generations of cheese importers. A Michigan-based nominee is a collection of local businesses, each with its own food specialty. Finally, the Philadelphia-based nominee celebrates the European roots of its two founders with a wide array of gourmet meats, cheeses, oils, and other goods from around the world.

The Readers' Choice for the Best Caviar Retailer for a Luxist Award include award-winning brands from Europe and the United States with each offering the highest of quality. Several offer some of the finest Russian caviar to be found, while one is a proponent of sustainably harvested roe with its own tank-farming system.

Nominees for Readers' Choice for Best Bread Bakery include companies that have been producing bread for decades. One opened more than 70 years ago and is now an institution in Paris, while another was launched in Belgium before expanding around the world. A Los Angeles-based nominee has developed more than 100 varieties of award-winning breads. The Philadelphia-based nominee features artisanal breads and the baked goods of the Ann Arbor-based nominee are known throughout the Midwest.

Readers' Choice nominees for Best Cheese Shop include some of the most respected shops in the world. These cheese shops, offer a full range of both international and domestic artisanal cheeses. They are the destinations for serious cheese lovers and chefs who are in search of the best.

Vote now for what you believe is the best of breed for each of these categories. Readers' Choice Awards for Food will be announced on November 30th.

LuxistVote Now For the Readers' Choice Best in Food Awards originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awards-mainfood-awardsgourmet foodGourmetFoodluxist-awardsMon, 16 Nov 2009 08:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Dean & DeLuca: Epicenters of Epicurean Excellence]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/15/dean-and-deluca-epicenters-of-epicurean-excellence/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/15/dean-and-deluca-epicenters-of-epicurean-excellence/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/15/dean-and-deluca-epicenters-of-epicurean-excellence/#commentsFiled under: ,


Dean & DeLuca is a nominee for a Luxist Award in two categories: Best Online Gourmet Food and Best Gourmet Grocer/Food Hall.

Though it's now one of America's finest online grocers -- offering a wide array of food, wine and even kitchenware --- the New York-based company got its start well before the information superhighway received its first coat of pavement.

In the 1970's, Joel Dean and Giorgio DeLuca traipsed around the world in search of artisan-produced foods that pleased their customers as well as themselves. They wanted products that fired their imaginations, challenged their tastes and turned dinner into a creative exercise.

When the partners opened the original Dean & DeLuca in Soho in September 1977, the neighborhood wasn't the hopelessly chic shopping enclave it is today; rather, it was an authentically gritty corner of the Big Apple. As such, founding partner, Jack Ceglic, designed the first store to evoke a turn-of-the-century food department. Beneath the whir of ceiling fans, high shelves brimmed with rare artisan foodstuffs from flavored salts to cured meats.

Joel and Giorgio continued to expand their operation, adding another New York shop with four times the space of the original in 1988. Boutiques throughout the city followed, as did locations in Charlotte, Kansas City and Washington, D.C. Demand for the grocer's goods even spawned a store in Tokyo.

Dean & DeLuca's wide array of gourmet offerings range from black truffle barbecue sauce, cilantro lime butter and tapas to Asian inspired delicacies such as green tea truffles, purple sweet potato vinegar and organic sushi rice. It also has an impressive selection of meats, seafood, pates, ready-to-serve appetizers, artisanal cheeses and sweets. In search of a Mediterranean sea salt? How about a Himalayan salt harvested from the beds of ancient seas? Look no further than Dean & DeLuca. The company has also launched a new wine division with knowledgeable staff who can recommend the best food and wine pairings for any event.

Today, website makes the grocer's trademark meats, fish, cheeses, herbs and spices available to those who aren't lucky enough to have a store nearby. Dean & DeLuca also markets its private label products to other retailers and wholesalers throughout the world.

Vote now for what you believe is the best of breed in Gourmet Foods. Readers' Choice Awards for Food will be announced on November 30th.

Gallery: More from Dean & DeLuca

LuxistDean & DeLuca: Epicenters of Epicurean Excellence originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awards-mainDean DeLucaDeanDelucafood-awardsgourmet foodGourmetFoodluxist-awardsSun, 15 Nov 2009 18:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Dorothy Lane Market: All in the Family]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/15/dorothy-lane-market-all-in-the-family/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/15/dorothy-lane-market-all-in-the-family/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/15/dorothy-lane-market-all-in-the-family/#commentsFiled under: ,


Family-owned Dorothy Lane Market has been nominated for a Luxist Award in the Best Gourmet Grocery/Food Hall category.

Dorothy Lane Market began as a fruit stand. In 1948 founder Calvin Mayne began selling quality fruits and vegetables in the south Dayton, Ohio area at the corner of Far Hills Avenue and Dorothy Lane (hence the name of the market, or DLM for short).

Mayne loved good food, and wanted his customers to enjoy the same. He believed the company should be unpretentious and have an inclusive atmosphere in which its customers would be welcome. Today Dorothy Lane Market is a company of well-known gourmet supermarkets in the Dayton area that are recognized for great food and service. Mayne's son, Norman, is now its chief executive officer while grandson Calvin, serves as its general manager. The Mayne family still owns and operates the company.

Dorothy Lane partners with food artisans and others passionate about food. This is evident when browsing its aisles and viewing the impressive selection of gourmet food products from around the world that stock its shelves. They offer an extensive selection of cheese, wine, and chocolate. Its oil selection is impressive, and includes walnut oil from Provence, macadamia oil, and olive oils from all over the world. They feature hard to find premium products in season. In seafood for example, they carry Copper River King Salmon and fresh Alaskan King Red Crab from family co-ops. Produce features golden Aurora apples, long stem artichokes, and jumbo size honeydew melons. The meat department's products are entirely natural, lifetime free of added hormones and antibiotics. Their meats include well marbled pork, free range chicken, and DLM Natural Beef, which almost always grades out as USDA prime.

The company's passion for great food is also reflected in what it manufactures in the store. Their in-store kitchens make staples including chicken salad from free range chicken and lasagna featuring their DLM Natural Beef. They also offer trendier fare such as cous-cous and lentil salads, cedar planked salmon, and asiago encrusted chicken breast. Dorothy Lane Market also employs several artisan bakers who daily bake traditional breads such as sourdough and baguettes entirely from scratch, which they sell in-store as well as online. Their bakery is famous as well for its Killer Brownie(R) which is sold to other fine food retailers and online at www.shopdlm.com.

Vote now for what you believe is the best of breed in Gourmet Foods. Readers' Choice Awards for Food will be announced on November 30th.

Gallery: More from Dorothy Lane Market


LuxistDorothy Lane Market: All in the Family originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awards-maindorothy lane marketDorothyLaneMarketfood-awardsgourmet foodGourmetFoodluxist-awardsSun, 15 Nov 2009 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ensuring a Safe Manicure and Pedicure]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/ensuring-a-safe-manicure-and-pedicure/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/ensuring-a-safe-manicure-and-pedicure/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/ensuring-a-safe-manicure-and-pedicure/#commentsFiled under: ,

manicureMillions of women (and a few men) visit nail salons regularly to have their nails done. Unfortunately, occasionally the result of having manicures or pedicures is developing nail fungus or bacterial infections that can not only look bad, but also may also feel even worse. A few simple steps before your next salon service can significantly lower your risk of developing a painful nail infection or fungus, or worse, a more serious disease.

Check out the salon for cleanliness and safety precautions. Don't be afraid to ask for a quick tour if you are considering a new salon, or asking the owner or manager of your current salon what steps they take to ensure safety. And take a look around. Does the salon look clean and sanitary? Is the trash container properly bagged and covered? Is the floor clean? Are the manicure tables kept neat and tidy? Is there good light? Look at the disinfectant containers and make sure that they are clear, clean, and free of debris.

Next, check the station where your service will take place. Ask if all instruments are cleaned and disinfected (even better: autoclaved) after each use, and if you need proof, have the technician show you the cleaning area or solution. Does he or she use fresh, clean instruments on each client? Make sure all files, buffers, and anything else that touches you is freshly clean before you allow the technician to begin. Also, the technician should wash his or her hands before and after each client, or wear fresh gloves. Clean towels should be used for every client.

Avoid having your cuticles cut. Cuticles serve a purpose -- they protect the nail bed from allowing infection to enter. If you like how your nails look with them pushed back, ask for cuticle softener, rather than cuticle scissors. After the cuticles are softened, the technician can wipe away, or gently scrape away, the excess with a fresh orangewood stick.

Pedicures can be a bit riskier because of the hot water and tub. Make sure the tub is thoroughly drained, cleaned, and disinfected between clients. The steps where clients typically step with bare feet also should be cleaned and disinfected between clients.

One way to avoid many of these concerns is to buy your own manicure or pedicure kit and bring it with you. Make sure you clean and disinfect your kit after each use, even if you are the only one using it. You also can bring your own nail polish, base coat, and top coat. Remove your old nail polish at home, or bring nail polish remover with you.

The salon and technician should both be licensed by their state governing board, usually the board of cosmetology. The licenses should be clearly displayed.

If sanitary precautions are not being taken at your salon, politely but firmly tell the owner what needs to change and what you expect. Contact your state cosmetology board if you develop a nail infection, fungus, or other condition as a result of visiting a salon, or if you see unsanitary practices.

LuxistEnsuring a Safe Manicure and Pedicure originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beauty-pediacadillac-pediamain-pediamanicurepedicuresalonsalonsThu, 05 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Claridge's Debuts Exclusive Dior Dressing Table]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/29/claridges-debuts-exclusive-dior-dressing-table/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/29/claridges-debuts-exclusive-dior-dressing-table/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/29/claridges-debuts-exclusive-dior-dressing-table/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Famed French fashion house Dior has created a bespoke, Art Deco-inspired dressing table service for guests of Claridge's, the landmark London hotel (above) whose devotees include Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Nicole Kidman, Kate Moss, Mick Jagger, Madonna and Victoria Beckham. Designed as the ultimate luxury amenity for glamorous occupants of the hotel's Viscount David Linley-designed suites, the service offers all the essentials necessary for a glamorous night out on the town. The Dior Dressing Table includes a carefully curated range of timeless accessories, including an elegant silk Claridge's dressing gown and slippers; a cashmere eye mask; a selection of classic Dior fragrances and beauty products; cocktails from a special 1930s menu; and era-appropriate books and music for entertainment.

[via JustLuxe]

LuxistClaridge's Debuts Exclusive Dior Dressing Table originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Angelina JolieAngelinaJolieArt DecoArtDecobeautyChristian DiorChristianDiorClaridgesDavid LinleyDavidLinleyDiorhotelLondonThu, 29 Oct 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[LuxGoddess.com Hops on the Discount Shopping Site Bandwagon, Donates to Charity]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/27/luxgoddess-com-hops-on-the-discount-shopping-site-bandwagon-don/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/27/luxgoddess-com-hops-on-the-discount-shopping-site-bandwagon-don/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/27/luxgoddess-com-hops-on-the-discount-shopping-site-bandwagon-don/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LuxGoddess.com Hops on the Discount Shopping Site Bandwagon, Donates to CharityDo only the very wealthy pay retail these days? Seems like it. With so many discount shopping sites that sell high-end items, mere mortals can get said high-end items at low(er)-end prices. But is is there room for yet one more of these sites? LuxGoddess.com is hoping so. It recently joined the likes of Bluefly, ShopBop, and Gilt to offer upscale items at reduced prices. Here's what makes LuxGoddess different, however: It donates 10% of its proceeds to Bright Pink, a national nonprofit that provides education and support to young women who are at high risk for breast and ovarian cancer.

Calling itself "the premier site for today's fashion trendsetters looking for great deals on their favorite designer brands," the site carries well-known brands, with a number of items pulled from online stores, and covers the standard categories of apparel, shoes, beauty, and accessories. There's also a sale rack, which is a user's personal sale rack, based on her size and brand preferences.

LuxistLuxGoddess.com Hops on the Discount Shopping Site Bandwagon, Donates to Charity originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 06:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breast cancerBreastCancercancercharitydiscount shoppingDiscountShoppingluxgoddessovarian cancerOvarianCancershoppingTue, 27 Oct 2009 06:01:00 EST<![CDATA[BidOnTheCity.com: Buy Manhattan Real Estate at Auction]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/22/bidonthecity-com-buy-manhattan-real-estate-at-auction/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/22/bidonthecity-com-buy-manhattan-real-estate-at-auction/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/22/bidonthecity-com-buy-manhattan-real-estate-at-auction/#commentsFiled under: ,

BidOnTheCity.com: Buy Manhattan Real Estate at AuctionIf you can survive buying or selling real estate in New York City, you can survive the process anywhere (well, maybe London and Tokyo would be rough). I've bought twice and sold once in NYC, and am pretty sure some of my gray hair arrived during those months. Recently I heard about BidOnTheCity.com, "eBay for Manhattan real estate." Intriguing! You can buy or sell, but unlike most other auction sites, you can only bid at a certain time, in person or online, Sundays at noon. Even brokers can get involved. Here's how it works. Read some press coverage here.

LuxistBidOnTheCity.com: Buy Manhattan Real Estate at Auction originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apartmentsauctionbid on the cityBidOnTheCitynew yorknew york cityNewYorkNewYorkCityreal estateRealEstateThu, 22 Oct 2009 15:03:00 EST<![CDATA[<I>Platinum Babies</I> on WeTV]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/21/i-platinum-babies-i-on-wetv/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/21/i-platinum-babies-i-on-wetv/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/21/i-platinum-babies-i-on-wetv/#commentsFiled under: , ,

<I>Platinum Babies</I> on WeTVWe all know that youth will always have an edge in pop culture and consumerism. But now even babies in utero are in on the commercialized luxe life. A new show on WeTV, Platinum Babies, debuting on Friday, November 6, will highlight wealthy parents-to-be who are sparing no expense when it comes to getting ready for their little one's arrival. In the first two episodes you'll meet Victoria and Tom, and Tara and Andrew, and watch along as they shop, shop, shop, par-tay (celebs on hand, natch), get massages, et cetera. I don't think I'll be DVRing this show, as I feel a little bit icky thinking about what I assume will be baby exploitation and massive, blatant product placement.

LuxistPlatinum Babies on WeTV originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>babiesbabychildrenkidsplatinumTVWeTVWed, 21 Oct 2009 21:01:00 EST