Thursday, March 1, 2007

Man Jewelry - A Definitive Stance

While I have a number of pet peeves there is one that remains a constant and that is my position on man jewelry. Man jewelry of course being defined as jewelry that is worn by a man, shockingly self-explanatory, but rather than risk any confusion I wanted to spell it out. Now it is a firm belief of mine that the ONLY exception to this firmly held policy is a watch and a wedding ring. Those are two items a man can wear and not cause my stomach to turn. To be fair, I can't quite explain exactly what it is that I find so unacceptable about man jewelry aside from the fact that it generally looks ridiculous (gold chain with some chest hair, anyone?) but it just seems as though the people that you spot wearing it are those that most definitely should not be drawing attention to those areas of their persons.
For example the only time I see those awful diamond crusted pinky rings are on the biggest sausage fingers you have ever seen, now how does that happen? Are men pulled aside by the fat-finger Mafia and told they must don the ring - these are questions that I seriously have. On the other end of the man jewelry spectrum you'll find the sensitive male, complete with some sort of hemp-like necklace or funky ring, I understand what they're trying to go for here, self-expression, the onset of metrosexualness which has made every man more aware of fashion, etc., but the end result still comes off tacky and no matter what their age makes them seem instantly younger (and not in a good way).
Finally, there are the pro-sports stars with their gigantic bling, and I'll be honest I'm mainly jealous of them (have you seen the size of those diamond studs they wear!!!) but also, how practical is it to play football wearing three carat diamond earrings or throw a 100 mph fastball with a giant gold chain on. I am somewhat the girlie girl and I never wore a necklace while playing softball, fellas if I can it off you need to too. So men, if any of you are even reading this, or the women of men who wear jewelry, stop, put that bracelet and necklace down and leave the accessories to us, we look cuter in them anyways.

Monday, February 26, 2007

Restaurant Review: Aigre Doux - 3 stars (out of 4)

This past Saturday I ventured out in the sleet and snow to try out one of Chicago's newest restaurant's, Aigre Doux, and the trip was more than worthwhile. Located in the old Pilli Pilli space right behind the Merchandise Mart, Aigre Doux's interior was clean and simple but with a few touches, specifically some gorgeous chandeliers in the front room, that gave the space a warmer feel.

We arrived a little early so there was time for a pre-dinner drink at the bar, which was also sleek and simple but with a friendly and knowledgeable bartender. Although we ended up being seated in the smaller front dining room, versus the larger and busier back room, I was ultimately okay with the choice as they put us at the table directly in the front window because obviously, as Greg (my s.o.) stated, "we are the best looking people in here and they want us to help bring in the business". While I will never argue with a statement like that - unless sitting at a table next to Gisele, we were definitely the youngest table in the restaurant by a good twenty years, which I was a little surprised at given that neither the decor, location nor menu are stuffy or outdated. I guess we can be pleasantly surprised that those fiftysomethings and older are wising up to the great dining in River North.

Speaking of the dining, let me say it was a wonderful meal. The menu itself is a little bit of everything with an emphasis on fish dishes for the main entrees so don't be fooled by the French name, these dishes I would all describe as contemporary with a mix of Italian, Asian, and even California influences of course with a little French mixed in. I started off with the risotto appetizer which was delicious but let's be honest, if a risotto is done well it's about impossible for them to ever miss the mark. However, this dish received an extra star for forming the risotto into small balls, then rolled in bread crumbs and lightly fried for a crispy exterior and savory, gooey, center, set upon a thin slice of prosciutto and served with a side of aioli the provided the perfect kick to an already flavorful bite. I also managed to snag a bite of my date's appetizer, oxtail ravioli and the chef also did a fine job with this dish, with just enough of the tasty oxtail in each bite but not so much as to overpower the dish.

For the next course I went with the salmon, and at this point in the meal my only complaint (also echoed by everyone else at my table) was the server's reluctance to specifically recommend a few top dishes. I know you're trying to represent your new employer well and all but honestly if there are a few favorites we appreciate the tip - so get specific! So, without a word from our waitress I went ahead with the herbed salmon that was accompanied by a parsnip puree and some braised endive. Side note: can I just say how much I love parsnips - I think they are a highly underrated food - Chicago chefs, please serve them more! My dish was beautifully plated, the salmon itself actually came rolled up and within each layer were the herbs which were the highlight of the dish, everything was done well, and overall I was happy with my dish but then I made the mistake of sampling Greg's skate wing and was immediately hit with orderer's remorse for his dish was waaaaaaaaaay tastier than mine! Delicate yet very flavorful the skate wing almost melted when you took a bite - I will definitely be back to order that item. Fish was theme at the majority of the table as the others ordered the turbot which was also deemed to be quite good and the lone red meat outlier of steak and frites was thoroughly enjoyed as well.

When it came time for dessert I already knew what I wanted, after reading several other reviews of Aigre Doux I had heard that the sticky toffee pudding was not to be missed, and while I can't say that I've ever had sticky toffee pudding before I felt that it was a must this time around. So let me stick with the pack and re-emphasize that the pudding is fabulous, and actually not pudding at all but more a spongy cake soaked in a caramel-like sauce. However, the sauce was nice and light, not overpowering the pudding with a sickly sweet flavor as caramel can sometimes do, then to top off the dish it was served with a scoop of Devonshire cream sorbet, which I quickly tried to lay full claim to even though I was "sharing" the dessert, the sorbet was good enough to be eaten alone, which I did, but I also made a point to pair some of the pudding with a few of the orange slices on the plate and the result was heaven, and this is from someone who does not consider the flavor orange to be a dessert one. The other dessert our table ordered was the chocolate malted which looked like a contemporary version of pots de creme and although I did not sample it for myself I was assured that it too was also delicious.

So fully sated and satisfied we sat and savored dessert and a few after dinner drinks until the restaurant was about closed, and without any complaint or comment from the staff, which can sometimes be rare, especially in a new and popular establishment, so it appears that Aigre Doux is committed to creating a an inviting space to sit and enjoy a leisurely dinner. With only being open a month, I was more than impressed with the service and food and will definitely be back in the future!

The Dresses - The Real Winners

Last evenings Oscars were somewhat boring and way too long, but after sitting through four hours of what I like to refer to as the 'female Superbowl', I've decided that the best thing about the show were the dresses worn by all the actresses.
There were no major surprises, other than Eddie Murphy not winning, which although I did indicate that he would win in an earlier post, I'm actually quite fine with the fact that he didn't. My personal opinion is that he's probably thought of as a jerk around Hollywood and the Academy members could not bring themselves to vote for anyone was starring in Norbit.
I probably could have just watched the pre-show red carpet events (thought those reporters on E! have reached new heights of annoyingness) and been happy enough to call it an evening. There really were no huge fashion mishaps, which is good and bad - good to see everyone looking fabulous but bad in the sense that we don't have a classic Bjork and the swan dress moment to add to the list of fashion don'ts.
Some of my favorites from the evening were Penelope Cruz, thought she looked like a princess in the Versace couture, not everyone could pull the skirt and train of that dress off but she did it with ease. I also loved Nicole Kidman, I don't care what all the fashion critics are saying that bow was elegant, she is nothing but elegant and the line and color of that dress were perfect for her. Cate Blanchett was on the cutting edge of fashion as always, wearing this year's latest metallic trend and making what had to be a massively heavy dress look effortless. A few other winners, Reese Witherspoon, Kate Winslet, Helen Mirren, and Cameron Diaz. And above all my favorite fashion moment of the evening - those huge sparkling bracelets featured on nearly every actress - they are fabulous and I want one - don't be surprised to see me rockin' some serious CZ bracelets in the near future!
And the night would not be complete without a few fashion misfits: Jessica Biel (first of all why was she even there ?) and while I love the color this dress was just not Oscar-caliber, she should have put in the closet and waited to wear it to some movie premiere. I thought Jennifer Lopez also missed the mark, she has gorgeous hair, why insist on teasing it up into a 1950s bouffant? The skirt of her dress was too voluminous for me - it was almost Grecian but instead bordered more on maternity meets bedsheet.

Thursday, February 22, 2007

And the Oscar goes to...

Since I am a big moviegoer and fan of celebrity I feel that I am more than qualified to play movie critic and provide my picks for this year's Oscars.

I will preface my picks my saying that these are no rash decisions, I actually make an attempt to see all major movies that are nominated so I do actually know what I'm talking about - so feel free to confidently place your money on these bets.


Best Supporting Actress: Jennifer Hudson in Dreamgirls
This of course is no shocker as she has won every other award this season, but she did give a solid performance, although I don't know if this is because she's a promising actress or that the rest of her cast was weak - I can't decide. I've yet to see Notes on a Scandal but I have no doubt that Cate Blanchett could/should be a real contender for this one.

Best Supporting Actor: Eddie Murphy in Dreamgirls
Again, he's won everything thus far and while it was refreshing to see him in something other than a character that required a fat suit, I truly don't believe this was an Oscar-worthy performance. It was fine but predictable - I think he played a drug addicted has been so well because in some ways that's what he is, hopefully he'll continue the trend and take on more serious roles but I'm not holding my breath.

Best Actress - Helen Mirren in The Queen
Now this pick is all due to Mirren's ability and not based on what other awards shows have already led us to believe. I saw this movie and thought she WAS the queen, I felt like I knew her even though she portrayed an unknowable person. She became the queen and made you sympathize and still want to shake her all at the same time. If you're an Anglophile you definitely need to see this movie.

Best Actor - Forest Whitaker in The Last King of Scotland
While I'd love to see the Academy break form and give it to O'Toole or Gosling, this one is going to Whitaker and deservedly so, similarly to Mirren he was Idi Amin - totally terrifying, yet realistic in showing how these African war lords rise to power only to be consumed and destroyed by it. I was a bit skeptical about liking a story set in 1970s Uganda but it was a compelling story and throuhg Whitaker you could feel Amin's magnetic pull.

Best Director - Martin Scorcese for The Departed
Finally, somebody give this poor little guy an Oscar already! After being the ultimate gracious loser it is finally Scorcese's time. While deep down I don't believe it's his best movie ever it is the best time ever for him to have a shot at winning. The Departed was entertaining through and through - I enjoyed it so much I even downloaded the song played as Jack and Leo are headed off to the big shootout (Dropkick Murphys, Shipping off to Boston). The Academy wants to finally give it to this guy and his movie was well received enough to merit the award.

Best Movie - Little Miss Sunshine
All the other critics are hedging about picking a winner but I am putting it out there and saying this great, little indie pic should win it all. It provides one of the best examples of the dysfunctional American family I've seen in a long time, funny, poignant, painful - it's a beautiful movie - you must see if only for Olive's Little Miss Sunshine number at the end. I want this over any other film - it's not trying to be a winner but yet it still is - which is the exact point of the film.

As for the other awards let's not pretend like we care about them.

Wednesday, February 21, 2007

And the Blogging Continues......

So far I'm loving this blogging thing! I've had rave reviews from you (thanks for humoring me) and I'm probably not annoying family and friends as much as I now have another outlet for everything that comes into my mind.
Which brings to mind my need to confess my latest obssession. My name is Kimberly and I'm addicted to Law & Order. I'm not quite sure how this happened and I'm fairly certain I somehow was the last person in the free world to realize that it's a good show and on tv EVERYDAY! This is what I love and simultaneously hate about this show. If you want to watch it's on, if you want to get things done, you can't, it's on. A few weeks ago I was home for several days recovering from a little foot surgery (sexy, I know) and I felt compelled to watch any and every episode of L&O that was on - I couldn't stop even if I wanted to. I'm hoping this is just a phase and soon I'll grow tired of it (it's actually on in the background right now and you bet your pants that I'm watching it as soon as I finish this up) but I worry that the phase will last while because there are something like 800 episodes and I don't even think I've reached the 100 mark yet. I'll keep you posted on this and hopefully I'll kick the habit soon. In meantime............ dun dun dun duuuuuuuun........ dun, dun .......... dun, dun, dun, duuuuuuuuuuuuun.

Sunday, February 18, 2007

For Those of You Too Lazy to Read

In 2005 I started a book club and it has become one of my favorite things. It combines several favorite activities, reading, drinking wine and testing out new appetizers - all things I consider myself a pro at. And while I do love my bookclub it does have the tendency to become more a drinking, snacking, gossiping night than a high-brow literary event - which I must confess can tend to get on my nerves since I'm a bit of a nerd, that coupled with my bossy nature, and I was not satisfied with the discussion time we were giving the books in our club, so one my friends had the fabulous suggestion of using this blog to provide a mini review of our books (I'm sure she's also thankful that this will hush up my complaining about our discussion quality as well). So here's a review of the most recent book we've read, An Unfinished Season by Ward Just.

In a nutshell the book tells a story of Wils Ravan a 19 year old boy living in what's now northwest suburban Chicago in the 1950s. The story focuses on his summer between finishing high scool and attending college. Wils' family is fairly well off but his father is a brusque man who's fight against the local labor unions and anti-communist views make a figure of some contempt. There is also the typical story of Wils parents who seem to be growing apart and living in entirely different worlds, although in a surprising twist later in the book several life changing events end up bringing them back together and they take that dream trip to Havana they always dreamed about.
In the meantime Wils spends the majority of his summer working essentially as a gopher at a local paper in Chicago, a view that most of his North Shore society friends find to be a vulgar job - that is - finding out the truth and printing uncomfortable stories that don't neatly compartmentalize into their privileged lives. Wils of course has a coming-of-age summer romance with Aurora Brule, a unique girl that he encounters at one of the endless debutante parties that summer. They spend an idyllic, if somewhat, exaggeratedly intellectual summer together, planning their futures, until Aurora's mysterious father, Jack Brule, commits suicide and the summer season abruptly ends.
Overall, I liked this book primarily for the tone that Just manages to create, especially when writing on Wils musings about, life, work, Chicago, music - I felt that it really captured the essence of what he was likely experiencing at the time. Although, not being a 19 yr. old boy in mid - 1950's suburban Chicago, this is admittedly a bit of a stretch. Being a native of the area myself, I also enjoyed the mentions of the North Shore and Chicago, envisioning what has changed and what's remained the same over the past fifty some years.
However, I'm guessing that the majority of my book club members will say that they've found this book a bit boring and difficult to get through. The story is not anything extraordinary but that's part of the point. Those looking for some epic story with a message will ultimately be disappointed.

Check back to hear what group's consensus was on the book!

Thursday, January 11, 2007

The Birth of A Beauteous Thing

So I've decided to start a blog.
Why do you ask ? I'm not entirely sure but I think it's a combination of several things 1) I am insanely bored right now and need a fun new project 2) I have been talking about it forever, to the point that some of you are asking to see this thing so I figure I better put my words where my mouth is3) it's the first logical step in my quest for world domination (or maybe just the vehicle to launch my dream job as restaurant and travel critic).

Any at rate, I'm here, and for those of you that have the honor and privilege of knowing me, you're well aware that I love to provide my opinion on pretty much anything and everything and now I'm just finally getting organized about it! So I'll plan to share with you whatever is top of mind as well as some things you might actually find to be of use (restaurant reviews, movie reviews, book reviews, quicks links to all my favorite gossip sites - you know the important stuff!)

So read, enjoy and let me know what you think!

KB