Get your daily dose of Recent Dining
Post
Recent BeautyEvents
Post
Recent Women's FashionBeautyAccessories
Post
Recent Events
Post
Recent Dining
Post
Contributors
Become a Santana Row fan on Facebook
Follow our Santana Row Twitter feed
Valentine’s Day at Amber India Just Got Sweeter
Amber India's Coconut & Cashew Nut Chocolate Cake
Base
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
1/4 cup granulated white sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup Cashew nut, coarsely chopped
1 cup coconut (either sweetened or unsweetened)
Filling
1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
2 - 3 tablespoons milk or cream
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder or vanilla pudding powder
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar (confectioners or icing sugar )
Frosting
4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
INSTRUCTIONS
Butter (or use a cooking spray) 9 x 9 inch (23 x 23 cm) pan.
BASE: Beat the eggs with a whisk, set it aside. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the sugar and cocoa powder and then gradually whisk in the beaten egg. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (1 - 2 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and chopped nuts. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Cover and refrigerate until firm (about an hour).
FILLING: In your electric mixer cream the butter. Beat in the ingredients for the filling. If the mixture is too thick to spread, add a little more milk. Spread the filling over the bottom layer, cover, and refrigerate until firm (about 30 minutes).
FROSTING: In a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, melt the chocolate and butter. Spread over the filling and refrigerate.
TO SERVE: To prevent the chocolate from cracking, using a sharp knife, bring the squares to room temperature before cutting.
The cake would be moist if kept at room temperature at least for an hour before service.
Chef Vittal Shetty
Executive Chef
Amber India Restaurant
Amber India is also serving a five-course prix fixe dinner for $60. Dishes include Fennel-scented White Asparagus Soup and Scallop & Prawn Shammi.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
Hotel Valencia’s Martini’s & Manicures Testimonial
Manicure/Martini, which occurs the first Tuesday of each month at the Hotel Valencia, is a fantastic deal at just $20. $20 gets you a manicure, a martini and much needed “me” time for today’s busy Silicon Valley woman. Husbands, children, and all other responsibilities are temporarily set aside as we reconnect with each, get pampered, and the only decisions to be made are nail polish color and type of martini. The occasional mini-massage, perfume bar, jewelry vendor or makeup artist, if offered that month, is icing on the cake. The event is well managed by Hotel Valencia staff, the ambiance serene and the Vbar is beautiful. It is a standing date my girlfriends and I highly anticipate each month.
Esther Campbell, Los Gatos, CA
**The March 2nd Martini’s & Manicures is already sold out! Call Hotel Valencia today to make your reservation for the April 6 event! For reservations call 408-551-0010.**
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty, Events Blogs
HMM Style Watch: Got Romance?
Looking for love or just want more fun? San Jose’s most beautiful and desirable destination is Santana Row! Day or night, it’s the perfect place to fall in love, meet new singles or take your sweetheart out for a fun night! Endless shopping options and dozens of popular restaurants, make The Row the ideal place to connect and impress a loved one. Look great for your date and let love rule your style this month. We just spotted these hot fashion trends on the streets of Santana Row.
Top 5 romance inspired pieces: 1) Ruffles—wear your heart on your sleeve and pretty ruffles on your blouse or dress. 2) Animal—go wild and drive them crazy in killer leopard, zebra and exotic prints. 3) Lace— the new spice for your wardrobe—add a touch for extra allure! 4) Cashmere —sweaters are pretty in pink, yellow or blues and very touchable. 4) Cuffs —the hottest wrist accessory must have- go big and bold!
It’s easy to be sweet and effortless to look stylish. Single or not –make Santana Row your favorite destination for love and fun. Add romance to your winter holiday and take your date to Santana Row. Your sweetheart will thank you for it!
Happy Valentine’s Day! See you at The Row-
MODEL: LAUREN in white, LIANA in purple ruffles, Kristin in dress
Traci Halvorson
HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt.
www.HMMODELS.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Beauty, Accessories Blogs
Keeping Your Resolutions On Track with Borders
At the beginning of every year, many people make resolutions, and it’s about this time that you begin to hear people talking about how they have already begun to break theirs. For me it was important that I stuck with mine; to lose those last 5 pounds I had been trying for. Just 5 lbs, how hard could that be? As the month went by I found my self less interested in the gym and more interested in catching the return of my favorite TV shows (Desperate Housewives anyone?) That is when I realized I needed a little help, so I headed to Borders on Santana Row to build up my recourses.
When I walked in the door I was excited to see that they had an entire table dedicated to healthy eating and weight loss and, even more exciting, that the items were all buy one get one 50%! As a fan of The Biggest Loser I was instantly drawn to all the Jillian Michaels items. Borders had multiple workout DVD items from her collection. After looking over a couple of them I picked out her 30 Day Shred. Michaels uses an interval system, three minutes of strength training, two minutes of cardio, and a minute of abs to maximize results. The video is only twenty minutes long which definitely was part of its appeal. I knew if I couldn’t work out for twenty minutes, there was no way I was going to lose those last couple pounds. Let me tell you, after two weeks of that video I have never felt better or more toned! I am even thinking about going back and picking up her No More Trouble Zones workout.
After I selected the workout DVD, I was also interested in finding something to help me on my way to eating healthier. Borders had so many different options, I wasn’t sure which one to chose. I asked one of their staff members, Dan what he suggested. He told me that everyone was raving about the Alicia Silverstone’s The Kind Diet and he even took me upstairs to help me find it. I browsed through it and thought it looked really interesting. Luckily it was included in the 50% of deal so I added it to my selection. The recipes all looked really delicious. I especially like the Fried Udon Noodles, having always been a fan of Udon, the recipe is a great healthy adaptation of a delicious classic. The great thing about the book is that it’s not just a cookbook. Silverstone helps you understand changes that can be made for a healthier lifestyle and ways that you can make those changes. She gives suggestions on her favorite brands for the ingredients that she uses in her recipes and even has weekly meal plans.
I really liked the great selection of resources Borders had to offer, appreciated the help that their staff members were able to give me, and enjoyed the store’s atmosphere. If you haven’t been there, I must tell you that they have an amazing balcony that overlooks Santana Row; it’s a great place to read your book and have a latte from their Seattle’s Best Coffee Café (a skinny vanilla latte if you are watching the calories like I am). Most of all I was glad that at Borders I was able to get the resources I needed to help reach my goal (only three more pounds now!)
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Events Blogs
Thea Mediterranean Cuisine-Learn To Cook New Orleans Style
Stop by on Superbowl Sunday for happy hour prices at the bar throughout the game, and an all you can eat buffet.
Skirt Steak with Potato Strings, Apple Cider Caramelized Pearl Onions and Horseradish Pesto
Steak Marinade
5 Cup Vegetable Oil
1Each Garlic Bulb, Halved exposing the cloves
½ Bunch Thyme
2 each 8oz Skirt Steaks
-Combine all in a 3 quart pot with a heavy bottom.
-Set heat to Low-Med and cook about 1 hour to an hour and a half, or until garlic is golden and soft. Don’t let the oil bubble, or you will burn the garlic.
-Remove from heat, add the thyme and allow cooling to room temperature.
-Refrigerate until cool and then add the steaks for 6-12 hours.
Onions (can be cooked a day ahead)
2 Pints Peeled Pearl Onions
2 Tbsp Vegetable Oil
2 Quarts Unfiltered Apple Cider
1 Tbsp Kosher Salt
-Heat a large sauté pan on Med-High with the vegetable oil until it is lightly smoky.
-Add all of the pearl onions at once.
-Allow the onions to caramelize nicely on all sides, tossing and moving them only after they are a nice golden color.
-Add half of the cider to the onions along with the kosher salt.
-Reduce the heat and simmer on Med-Low until cider is reduced by half, then add the remaining cider.
-Simmer until cider is almost fully reduced and is almost a light caramel consistency.
-Serve while hot, or is serving later, lay on a cookie tray lined with foil and allow cooling to room temperature before placing in the refrigerator.
Potato strings
Special Equipment: -Mandolin with fine julienne setting –Frying Thermometer
1Each Russet Potato, about 1Lb, Washed but not peeled
6 Quarts Vegetable, Canola or Peanut Oil
As Needed Kosher Salt
-Heat the Oil in a tall, 10-12 quart heavy bottom pot in which the oil is 3-4 inches from the top, on Medium until it reaches a steady 37* F.
-Using a towel to protect your hand, slice fine juliennes of the potato.
-Once cut, place in water until ready to fry.
-When the oil reaches the desired temperature, drain the potatoes from the water, pat dry, and fry in small batches to avoid the oil from over flowing, and to keep the oil temperature from dropping too much. That would result in a soggy fry.
-When the small fries are lightly golden brown, about 1-2 minutes, remove using a spider or slotted spoon. Place on a towel to allow excess oil to drip off and season with the salt.
-Repeat until all of the potato is cooked.
(If frying your own fries seems a bit dangerous, store bought can be used. Use whatever form of potato you are comfortable with)
Horseradish Pesto (can be done a day ahead)
1Bunch Fresh Italian Parsley, Picked
1Bunch Fresh Oregano, Picked
½ Bunch Fresh mint, Picked
1 Each Lemon, Zest and Juice
¼ Cup Toasted Walnuts, finely ground (optional)
¼ Cup Horseradish
2Tbsp Champagne Vinegar
2Cup EVOO
1Tbsp Kosher salt
2 Tsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper
- Finely chop the herbs and zest with a pinch of the salt to draw out some of the moisture from the herbs.
-Add the herb mix to the rest of the ingredients in a bowl and whisk to combine.
-Keep in the refrigerator until ready to use.
To Complete the Dish
-Preheat grill, keeping the heat only to one side.
-Remove the steaks from the marinade and drain off excess oil.
-Season with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
-Fry the potatoes at this point. They will still be crispy when assembling later.
-Place steaks on the hot side of the grill and cook about 2 ½ minutes on each side for Medium Rare. Place on the cool side and cover with the lid if you would like it cooked more. Skirt steaks are thin so they cook quickly.
-Once cooked to desired doneness, remove from grill and allow resting for at least two minutes.
-During this time, reheat the onions in the oven at 350*F for about 4 minutes until they are hot.
-Warm two plates in the oven for about a minute to warm them.
-Place the potato strings in the center of the plate with the onions and steak on either side. Place the desired amount of pesto on the steak and serve.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
Amber India Recipe: Nalli Vindaloo Lamb Shanks
Nalli Vindaloo
Serves: four Cooking time: 4-5 hrs Prep time: 2-3 hrs
Ingredients
4 pieces Lamb shanks
3 oz Oil
2 pieces cinnamon sticks
3 pieces cloves
5 pieces peppercorns
3oz Whole ginger
2 oz Whole garlic
3 oz Red chili Powder (See note)
1tbs Salt
½ lb Chicken or lamb stock
3 oz plain vinegar
8 oz tomato puree
4 oz sliced red onions
Method of preparation
1. Make paste of ginger & garlic with little water in an blender to a smooth consistency
2. Clean the outer layers of fat of the shanks make sure the meat is still intact
3. Make a marinade of ginger garlic paste, redchilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, vinegar and salt with oil
4. Rub this over the shanks
5. Let it sit in the marinade for at least 2-3 hours
6. Pre heat the oven at 350 deg far
7. Prepare a brazing tray big enough to hold all the shanks
8. Spread the tomato puree & sliced onions
9. Heat a heavy bottom pan, add little oil
10. When the oil is hot enough add the marinated shanks, sear them to an golden color on all sides
11. Place them in the brazing tray with the onion tomato masala
12. Cover them with aluminum foil
13. Add little of chicken stock
14. Cook them in the oven for at least 3-4 hrs or until the meat separates fromthe bone
15. Serve hot with the gravy from the roasting pan
Note:
• The shanks cook better if marinated for 24 hrs
• Use local (Colorado) lamb shanks if u wants bigger shank & use an Australian or a New Zealand shank if you want a smaller piece
• This recipe will result in a hot (spicy) vindaloo; you can reduce the amount of chili powder to make it mild
• Serve it with steamed plain basmati rice or naan
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
SAP Open Wildcard Player Sebastien Grosjean to appear at Santana Row
Saturday, February 6 at 2:00 pm
The SAP Open, the premier men’s professional tennis tournament in Northern California, announced today that wildcard Sebastien Grosjean (FRA) will make a player appearance at Santana Row on Saturday, February 6 at 2:00 pm.
Grosjean will put on a demonstration in Park Valencia, located directly in front of Maggiano’s Little Italy. Following he will be available to sign autographs for fans. This is a complimentary event, open to the general public. If rain should occur, the event will be moved to the Via of Santana Heights (between Left Bank and Sino).
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Events Blogs
Celebs love Flying Lizards Designs at the Sundance Film Fest 2010
Celebrities from Paris Hilton to Samuel L. Jackson enjoyed all the beautiful jewels from Flying Lizard Designs. Check out the photos here.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories, Events Blogs
Pasta Pomodoro’s Valentine’s Day Menu
Check out Pasta Pomodoro's Valentine's Day Menu here. PLEASE NOTE: Prices and menu are subject to change.
VALENTINES DAY
$49 per couple
Start your meal with a glass of Prosecco and Zuppa di Zucca
ANTIPASTI | Choose two
Insalata di Rucola e Parmigiano shaved fennel, organic arugula & parmesan with lemon and olive oil Gnocchi Bava potato dumplings with gorgonzola and fontina
Polenta Farcita polenta broiled with fontina, spinach, brown butter and sage
Gamberi sautéed shrimp, chili flakes, light tomato and white wine sauce; grilled rustic bread
SECONDI | Choose two
Maiale Latte pork braised until fork tender, served with spinach and pan-fried polenta
Salmone Capperi grilled king salmon with caper sauce, served with a side of spinach
Risotto Agnello italian carnaroli rice, lamb & italian sausage braised in tomatoes and red wine
DOLCE (a combination of the following)
Soufflé al Cioccolato warm chocolate soufflé cake with melted chocolate center, chocolate sauce and whipped cream
Panna Cotta eggless vanilla bean custard with strawberries marinated in lemon and grappa
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
Yankee Pier: Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is a vegetable valedictorian of sorts, delicious and chock-full of health nutrients, although it is often overlooked. It's one of the many leafy green vegetables, along with kale, mustard and collard greens, categorized as 'greens,' even though it is in the same family as the garden beet, known for its edible roots. It is also related to spinach, and shares similar taste profiles to both; bitter, earthy and somewhat salty, although slightly meatier in texture.
It's also not really Swiss at all, but originated in the Mediterranean region, with some of its earliest appearances in Sicily. The word "Swiss" was added to chard (derived from a Latin word meaning 'thistle') to honor the homeland of the botanist who determined its scientific name. Written about by the likes of Aristotle as early as 4th century B.C., ancient Greeks and Romans celebrated this vegetable for its medicinal properties and in Europe it continues to be popular, while American cooks often shy away, opting for spinach instead, which is a shame because it is so¬ versatile.
Younger, sweeter leaves can be eaten raw, used for garnish or salads, while the more mature, larger leaves can be sautéed, braised or steamed, used in frittatas, stuffings, pastas and soups, or on its own as a side dish with olive oil, onion or shallot, bacon or vinaigrette. Its bitterness lightens through cooking, leaving a delicate, refined product. Although it is important to remember not to use aluminum pots or pans while cooking, as the oxalates inside react with the metal, causing the chard to discolor and take on a metallic taste.
As a rule of thumb, its stems or ribs are to be treated like asparagus while the leaves are to be treated like spinach, almost giving you two vegetables in one. Two very healthy vegetables, in fact. It contains substantial amounts of vitamin-K, which is important for maintaining bone health and just one cup of Swiss chard, although only containing 35 calories, it provides over 100% of the daily value for vitamin-A
and more than 50% of the daily value for vitamin-C. Not only is it super-high in vitamins, fiber and anti-oxidants but it is also a cruciferous vegetable, believed to possess cancer-fighting properties.
So go out and give Swiss chard a chance in place of spinach or kale in your veggie lasagna or just as a side dish, you won't be disappointed!
Eat fresh, eat local, always!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
Borders Books Pick of the Month: A Reliable Wife
Cozy Up By the Fire with A Reliable Wife
With all the wind and rain lately many of us are stuck indoors, creating the perfect opportunity to curl up on your couch with a cup of hot cocoa and a good book. The thunder and lightning pairs perfectly with an intriguing suspense novel, which is why, this month, Borders recommends A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick.
Set in a small town in the early 1900s, Goolrick spins the tale of Ralph Truitt, a lonely business man, looking for someone to share his life with. He places an advertisement in a Chicago newspaper asking for “a reliable wife” and, out of all the responses, selects a woman most dangerous for his health. Catherine Land comes with deception in mind as she plans to poison her new husband and inherit his fortune, but Ralph has other plans for this mysterious woman…
Don’t predict the end though, it was completely unexpected. Goolrick’s ability to surprise you and keep you turning the pages are what are making this the most talked about book at Borders.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Events Blogs
Hero sighting at Atelier Salon!
Greg Grunberg, star of TV's Heroes as well as the co-creator of the hot iPhone app Yowza, made a surprise visit to Atelier today with Yowza app developer August Trometer. Atelier was the first salon in the U.S. to become a Yowza merchant, and that business connection created a friendship between Atelier founder Karie Bennett and the Yowza guys. Suzanne Sawyer was the lucky guest in Karie's chair when Greg and August visited.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty Blogs
Read about Club One’s Lite N’ Up Program
Bay area fitness leader Club One is currently testing a new program that looks like a winner: Lite N' Up. Lite N' Up is a lifestyle program that deals with the reality that different people need different support systems to lose weight and get fit.
Some people need nutrition help, others want workout plans, shopping lists, meals to go, or a customized workout plan. Most everyone needs support, a knowledgeable coach and trainer, and encouragement.
Hence Lite N' Up is an a la carte approach that lets people choose the elements that will work for them, and only pay for those elements.
What makes so much sense about this program is that it's a win-win. Club One is less likely to lose people who get discouraged because coming into the club doesn't turn them into a goddess. Participants get what they need to get fit and maintain a healthy weight. Choices include:
- Peer support meetings
- Food diaries and nutritional guidance (including healthy grocery shopping trips)
- Mindful eating workshops
- Healthy meals to-go
- Circuit training (small group or one-on-one)
- Lose to Win Challenge (think “Biggest Loser”)
- Weight loss technology tools (i.e. Habit Changer, a 42-day challenge and Body Sense, a tool to help manage calories consumed and burned)
Launched in August, 09, Lite N' Up is currently available at two of Club One's 14 Bay Area locations: Citigroup Center (San Francisco) and San Jose's Santana Row. It is open to members and non-members, and begins with a complimentary 30 minute meeting/assessment at either of the two participating locations.
Full story from Examiner.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty Blogs
Treat Your Feet with a Rejuvenating Sugar Scrub
Full treatment: $50/45 minutes
Express treatment: $25/20 minutes (excludes neck massage)
Let your feet soak in a warm bath while we give you a relaxing neck massage. Then refresh your feet with an exfoliating sugar scrub followed by warm towels and a soothing foot massage.
Service Beginning Monday January 25, 2010
For more information & appointments, please contact the service desk at 408-985-5555
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty Blogs
MARDI GRAS party at Roux Louisiana Kitchen February 16th - Details Here
We may not be in New Orleans, but Roux Louisiana Kitchen is bringing a slice of The Big Easy to Santana Row with it’s big, New Orleans-style bash to celebrate MARDI GRAS!
Come join the party on Tuesday, February 16th (“Fat Tuesday”) from 6-9 p.m. Dance to the unmistakable Dixieland sound of Bug Horn Rex performing live on stage in Park Valencia, while jugglers and fire breathers put on side shows all around you. Get your face painted in the classic Mardi Gras colors—purple, green and gold—and sample some N’awlins style food and drink. Step right up to Roux’ bar to catch Mardi Gras beads being tossed to the crowd.
And while you’re inside the restaurant, order up some of Roux’ down home Creole and Cajun cuisine, like Gumbo or Jambalaya or this classic favorite, which Roux has shared just for our readers!
FRIED GREEN TOMATOES
INGREDIENTS
4 Medium sized green tomatoes sliced into ½ inch thick slices
2 cups All purpose flour
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tbsp Garlic powder
2 tbsp Corn meal
2 tbsp Kosher salt
2 tbsp Panko bread crumbs
1 tbsp Baking powder
2 cups Buttermilk
¼ cup Amber or dark beer
1 ½ tsp Kosher Salt
2 cup Canola oil
¾ cup Remoulade sauce*
5 oz Spring mix lettuce
¼ cup Herb dressing** (or store-bought herb vinaigrette)
Combine the flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, corn meal, kosher salt, bread crumbs and baking powder in a wide bowl and set aside.
Combine the buttermilk, beer and salt in a bowl and set aside.
In a pan, heat the oil at medium heat. Dust the green tomatoes in the flour mixture, then transfer them to the buttermilk marinade, and back to the flour. Place in the pan with oil and cook, flipping once, until golden on both sides. Remove from pan on napkins or paper towels to absorb excess oil.
In a bowl, toss the lettuce with the herb dressing (or salad dressing of your choice) and transfer to a plate.
Place the green tomatoes on top of the salad, drizzle Remoulade sauce over the tomatoes, and serve.
**REMOULADE SAUCE**
INGREDIENTS
1 cup Mayonnaise
1 tbsp Horseradish
½ tbsp Paprika
2 tbsp Capers, chopped
½ tsp Tabasco sauce
¼ tsp Crystal hot sauce
¼ tsp Lemon juice
½ tsp Garlic, chopped
½ tbsp Italian parsley, chopped
1 tsp Chives, chopped
2 tbsp Creole mustard (or Dijon mustard)
2 tbsp Ketchup
¼ tsp Black pepper, ground
½ tsp Kosher salt
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning and lemon juice if needed.
**Herb Dressing**
INGREDIENTS
1 tsp Fresh thyme, finely chopped
½ tsp Fresh rosemary, finely chopped
½ tsp Fresh oregano, finely chopped
1 tsp Fresh mint, finely chopped
1 tbsp Garlic, chopped
1 tbsp Shallots, chopped
½ tbsp Kosher salt
2 tbsp Coriander seeds, crushed
¼ cup White balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp Red wine vinegar
2 cups Olive oil
Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining, Events Blogs
Hot Gift Pick of the Week: Donald J Pliner “Zee” cutout sandal
New for Spring 2010 Women’s “Zee” cutout sandal in Blue and White! Avaialble at Donald J Pliner. Visit the store or call 408.260.2500
$385
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Subway on The Row: Now Serving Breakfast
Did you know Subway on The Row is now open at 7am, Monday thru Friday? I know what you’re thinking, and don’t worry, we’re not asking you to have an Italian BMT for breakfast! Your Santana Row Subway offers a complete breakfast lineup including an egg-white-only option. Plus, enjoy a FREE Seattle’s Best coffee with any purchase.
There’s a new breakfast joint in town… Subway on The Row. Try the delicious new English Muffin sandwich with coffee for just $2!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
AVEDA: New spa services await you!
We have a great feeling about 2010...and it's about you looking and feeling great!
Be inspired to feel and look great with a Happy New You at Atelier.
New spa service series promotions await you!
Waxing* services: 6 for the price of 5
Aveda signature facials: 5 for the price of 4
Perfecting Plant Peels: 4 for the price of 3
*Bikini, brazilian, brow, brow and lip waxing series available. Buy your first service and purchase a return guest series--great
NEW from Aveda
Two new Light Elements styling products--Atelier Artists are just loving these new soft tools to give hair touchable new texture!
Shaping Wax - delivers weightless texture with firm, pliable hold for all hair types. hair can be easily shaped and reshaped throughout the day.
Texturizing Cream - delivers weightless texture with light hold for all hair types. It gives hair natural definition and movement with nourishing moisture. Reduces flyaways.
Try something new in 2010!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty Blogs
HMM STYLE WATCH: Shopping Resolutions
Happy New Year and cheers to a new decade! It’s time to ring in 2010 with simple resolutions that are easy to keep. You spoiled your loved ones now treat yourself and spend those wonderful gift cards! Fashionista’s unite—look great and save money by investing wisely. The best shopping resolution this year is to experiment with colors and explore all the stores! The Row has the best solutions to all your fashion resolutions. Reso #1 Try something new- wear patterned tights to the office! Reso #2 Brighten your wardrobe with bold colors- try tops and dresses in purple, orange or fuchsia!
Reso # 3 Add shine to your ensemble- a satin blouse, sateen pants or shimmering scarves. Reso #4 Splurge on cool accessories—big purses and chunky jewelry pieces. Reso #5 invest in jeans you’ll love, try the comfort of soft denim rinse. I just got a pair at The Blues Jean Bar, cool patterned tights at H&M and a sateen shimmer scarf at Urban Outfitters. Score!
Get your style on and start a party at The Row . Happy hour here is very popular—check out the sales and meet your friends afterwards. Best happy hour spots are Blowfish, Chili’s, Consuelo’s Mexican Bistro and my favorite the Left Bank!
Good luck with your resolutions~ See you at The Row!
HMM Model: Madalina
Traci Halvorson
HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt.
www.HMMODELS.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Hot Gift Pick of the Week: Oakley JAWBONE sunglasses
Oakley JAWBONE Sunglasses
Atomic Orange
Price: $205
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Men's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Blog Hot Gift Pick of the Week: Ann Taylor Loft Sequin Sparkle Tank
Get Ready For New Years!
Ann Taylor Loft
Sequin Sparkle Tank
$59.50
As seen in InStyle Magazine
We love the way shimmery, tonal sequins transform the classic tank, adding a touch of sexiness. Tonal chiffon trim at scoop neckline and armholes. Sleeveless. Sequined front, solid back.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Hot Gift Pick of the Week: Hello Kitty PINK PATENT PVC BAG WITH EMBOSSED DETAIL
JUST RELEASED AND EXCLUSIVE TO PINK STRIPES BOUTIQUE at SANTANA ROW
Hello Kitty PINK PATENT PVC BAG WITH EMBOSSED DETAIL.
$65
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Yankee Pier: Dungeness Crab Season
Well, it's that time of year again. The northwest coast (from Alaska to Santa Cruz) is blessed with an abundance of Dungeness crab, one of the tastiest and most commercially important delicacies our shores have to offer. The cancer magister, or, master crab, is named after a city named Dungeness, Washington, where the first commercial harvesting took place.
Technically, crab season runs from mid-November to June, but eighty percent of the local crabs are snatched up by February, and more often than not, that's the kind you want. Typically the California crabs are sweeter than Oregon or Washington crabs (and less expensive too!), even though the opposite is generally thought to be true. And although this year's crabs are a little on the small side, it actually worked out better for the fishermen-as the gossip over crab size spread, the larger boats from Oregon and Washington, for the most part, stayed out of California waters, allowing the coast to make up for last year's disappointing harvest.
So maybe you've been fortunate enough to have one of these delicious creatures in your possession-now what? It's a little intimidating if you have never worked with one. If it isn't still alive, it's best that it was pretty recently killed, or precooked and frozen (in which case, all you would have to do is clean it, or steam it first if you want it warm). Some people just throw the crab in deep enough salted boiling water to submerge and let it do its thing for about 10-20 minutes, depending on how large the crab is. Others say a more humane method is freezing the crab for about a half hour beforehand so it is not conscious when it is killed.
When the crab is done, you should use rubber gloves to remove it and clean it as it will be very hot and is best served as such. Remove the back by holding the base with one hand and pulling the shell away with the other. Turn the crab over, pulling on the triangular-shaped section, removing. Gently scrape away the inedible, brownish gills on either side with your fingers or a spoon, also removing the intestine, which runs down the back. Inside the cavity, there is some mushy
yellow matter which can be thrown away or eaten (some find this a delicacy, but it is a little fishy and not for everyone). After that, it's just a matter of twisting off the legs and breaking into them with forks or mallets or anything else you may have. It can be a lot of work, but it's worth it.
Dungeness crab is one of the meatier crabs, a quarter of its weightactually being the meat. It's high in protein and minerals, low in fat, a versatile, sustainable option for seafood lovers everywhere, even featured on Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch "Best Choice" list. And as with many delicately flavored fishes, it's best to keep the preparations simple to maintain its natural sweet flavor. With melted butter and lemon is a favorite, but it's also delicious in salads, raviolis, bisques and stir-fries. But as with all fish, freshness is key.
Eat fresh, eat local, always!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
HOT GIFT PICK: Boutique Harajuku Earrings
Check out another Hot Gift Pick from Santana Row's Boutique Harajuku - Earrings, gold plated ($59) or rhodium plated ($69).
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Hot Gift Pick of the Week: InSpa Eyelash Kit
Check out InSpa's HydroPeptide Eyelash Kit. Grow your lashes in time for the holidays! Holiday price $99.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Beauty Blogs
Top 10 Tips for Healthy Holiday Eating
There’s nothing better than all the good tidings this time of year. The Lite N’ Up lifestyle coaches at Club One Fitness at Santana Row have put together the Top 10 Tips to help you make healthy eating choice this holiday season and enjoy the holidays guilt free!
1. Have a Snack: Munch on ¼ cup of almonds or a handful of carrots and hummus to keep yout metabolism strong and boost your holiday cheer!
2. Fill Up on the Lighter Fare: Steer clear of the breaded and fried temptations and make a bee-line for the shrimp cocktail, raw veggies and fresh fruit.
3. Create Barriers: With a glass in one hand and an accessory in the other, you’ll have a much harder time reaching for a snack.
4. Watch Liquid Calories: Take a half-glass of egg nog and sip slowly. Opt for a glass of still or sparkling water between cocktails.
5. Use Healthy Substitutions: When the recipe calls for a stick of butter, try modifying it with apple sauce or heart-healthy oil. A simple Internet search can save hundreds of calories!
6. Organize Group Activities: Take advantage of your Club One membership and bring your guests for a Zumba class or gather the troops outside for a brisk walk or friendly game.
7. Enjoy Favorites, in Moderation: Dish up small servings, taste every bite without guilt and remember, food tastes best in the first three bites.
8. Talk to Yourself: Look in the mirror every day to remind yourself of your priority to manage your weight and be healthy. When faced with a particular challenge ask yourself: Is your priority to lose weight, or is it to gratify a momentary impulse? Take a moment to really think about the consequences of your action and how it will affect your long-term goal.
9. Plan Daily Non-Food Rewards: Enjoy a bubble bath, take time alone for yourself or schedule a massage for adhering to your goals.
10. Arm Yourself for Success: Share your goals with friends and family and ask for their support. And remember, no one eats perfectly all the time!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty Blogs
Pick of the Week: BCBG RHINESTONE COCKTAIL RING
Check out Santana Row's Holiday Gift Pick of the Week: BCBG Rhinestone Cocktail Ring ($38)
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Shopping in a Winter Wonderland
Santana Row is Silicon Valley’s # 1 winter wonder play ground for shopping, dining and holiday cheer! So much to see and do every day of the week it’s hard for me to stay away. Tis the season to by jolly but don’t panic if you still haven’t started your shopping or found the perfect outfit for the party. The Row has so many fabulous store options- you can always find the ideal gift or gorgeous ensemble! Don’t be a Grinch and stay indoors! Party here for lunch or dinner and discover the ginormous sales (for yourself or course) and everyone on your list.
Style watch has also spotted the hottest trends to wear this holiday. Women –make it shine or sparkle by adding sequins to your wardrobe --in a top, jacket, purse, shoes or leggings. Men look ultra handsome in burgundy or dark blue sweaters, ties or scarves. Extra holiday toppings for women are animal pattern pieces, faux fur trimmed coats and yummy cashmere scarves and hats. RED, PURPLE or TEAL are the hottest colors right now—especially for your accessories and shoes. Happy shopping and don’t forget all the rainy day discounts at Santana Row.
Grab your new coat and have a very merry holiday!
See you at The Row!
HMM MODELS : Paloma, Lisa, Natasha
Traci Halvorson
HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt.
www.HMMODELS.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Learn How to Style Your Hair at Home
Style your hair like a pro!
Fee: $25
Class: Limited to 10
Four one-day sessions:
December 9
December 16
January 6
January 13
Have you ever left the salon wishing that you could do your own hair at home as nicely as your stylist does it? Now you can.
Bring your styling tools hairdryer, curling iron, flat iron, brushes, styling products<whatever you use. We¹ll shampoo and condition your hair, then our experts will teach you how to style your own hair like a pro.
We¹ll bring the music and refreshments. You bring a friend and we¹ll make it a party. Space is limited so reserve your seat now.
Please call 408.248.8953 for more information or to book your spot.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Beauty Blogs
NordicHair Extensions Party
NordicHair Extensions Party
Fee: No charge!
Date: Dec 9th, 7pm at W¹s Salon
Come to our hair party to see and feel the highest quality extensions in the world, and to learn how these extensions are attached and how to care for them. Our certified NordicHair specialists will be there to answer any questions you may have and to help you understand what NordicHair can do for you.
Bring a friend! Now, when you purchase one set of NordicHair at full price, the second set is free.
Whether you want your hair longer, thicker or just more glamorous, you¹ll be ready for holiday parties with your new and improved NordicHair. So come alone or bring a friend. It¹s going to be a party.
Please call 408.248.8953 if you'd like more information.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Beauty Blogs
Indulge Without the Bulge
Dining out and socializing are hard enough but the holidays make it exceptionally tempting and difficult to manage. The key is having a game plan or strategy to help you be successful.
The idea is not to deprive yourself, nor is it to starve yourself all day and then succumb to overeating because your body is craving nutrients and you are overly hungry. To put this into a more practical way, eat lighter during the day, eating more of the things you are not likely to eat at the large meal of the day. In other words, save your fats and heavier carbohydrates for the festive meal therefore balancing your day’s food allotment.
Remember planning this ahead of time, not the day of the event, will go a long way in implementing it into action. Also consider what time of day the big meal is occurring. You may want to save lunch as a dinner option if you have your big meal earlier in the day. Remember this is all part of learning maintenance skills. Building these skills now prepares you for social events the rest of your life.
SAMPLE MENU
Breakfast: It’s still the most important meal of the day! A 2 egg-white omelet made with your favorite veggies, such as mushrooms and onions, tomatoes, topped with salsa. (Those on higher calorie plans may want to add whole grain toast and a choice of fruit.)
Lunch: Large green salad with lots of lettuce and veggies. Use your favorite non-fat dressing; or try salsa with vinegar or honey mustard with non-fat Italian. Add a cup of non-fat yogurt and fruit of choice.
Dinner: Taste everything, but eat nothing! This means having small tastes, 1-2 tablespoons of the things you only, really enjoy. Avoid consuming excess food just because it’s there and it’s expected of you. Avoid putting it on your plate if you don’t even enjoy it. Take the time to actually mindfully consume your food. (If you are preparing the meal, chew gum so you aren’t tempted to “graze;” have others taste for you; also consider using our handout for cutting fat and calories without compromising taste in your holiday meal.)
Hors d’oeuvres: pick 1-2 items that you truly enjoy and savor them
Vegetables: If unbuttered or without a sauce eat as much as you like.
Dressing: tablespoon
Salad: Control dressing if possible
Gravy: tablespoon
Turkey: 3 ounces, about the size of a deck of cards.
Mashed potato: tablespoon
Roll: How necessary is it? Eat half or less.
Cranberry: tablespoon
Dessert: tablespoon or tiny portion
Alcohol: Limit this to one glass only! It weakens your overall resolve around food and contributes to fat storage more than any other food!
Go into the holidays ahead truly believing that you will be successful at managing your weight and it will become a self fulfilling prophecy!
If you would like more information please feel free to contact Lauren Walker, Club One’s Santana Row Lifestyle Coach, at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
Santana Row Hot Pick of the Week!
Santana Row has PLENTY of hot gifts to choose from. We feature several great gift ideas on our Web site. Here's one we really love this week from Cole Haan.
Check out the full list of Hot Gifts at: www.SantanaRow.com/shopping/hotgifts
Visit the blog each week for our favorite pick of the week from The Row!
Cole Haan
Wool Dog Coat
$88
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Accessories Blogs
W’s Salon Offers Studio Days Every Tuesday & Friday
We know that during this difficult financial time, every penny counts. That’s why we have expanded our Studio Day Program to include Tuesdays and Fridays, from 1PM to 6PM.
Under this program, you can have your hair cut by a licensed Junior Stylist (Laura, Eli or Joe) for $45.00 and colored for $55.00. All work is done by a licensed cosmetologist under the supervision of a Senior Stylist. The program will end on February 28, 2010.
Studio Days: Tuesdays and Fridays 1pm-6pm.
By appointment only. Please call 408.247.8953 to schedule yours.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Beauty, Accessories Blogs
Get Your Best Hair Advice
As a hairdresser, every head of hair is an opportunity. A chance for someone to look their best, but also for me to make someone feel great! I love that!
So it’s inevitable that when I meet someone new and my occupation comes up in conversation, the question will arise…”What would you do with my hair?”
Do I have to limit my answer to just ONE thing? I have lots of ideas—almost 30 years worth, since I’m only a year away from celebrating that anniversary in my vocation.
One thing I love is helping people to understand what their best hair is. So, I’d love to answer questions from the blog readers here. Please submit your hair related questions to me at: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address), and I’ll compile a FAQ page for the next blog entry. If we use your question, we’ll give you a $10 Atelier gift card!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty Blogs
Santana Row featured on the cover of the South Bay’s newest Magazine!
A sleek new magazine hits South Bay streets today…
Called ‘the Silicon Valley woman’s guide to style,’ Scene is the valley’s answer to Vogue, with articles on fashion, accessories, health & beauty, hot holiday gifts and more. Scene is produced by the hard-working, fantastic staff at the San Jose Mercury News.
What’s that on the cover of Scene, you ask? Why, it’s a chic ivory suit from Santana Row’s very own Penelope! Actually, a number of Santana Row retailers are included within Scene’s pages: Anne Fontaine, Anthropologie, Brooks Brothers, Cole Haan, Flying Lizard Designs, Pink Stripes and Footcandy to name a few. Karie Bennett and her awesomely talented staff at Atelier AVEDA Lifestyle SalonSpa did the hair and make up for the cover photo shoot and inside spread.
Get yourself a copy. It’s GAW-geous.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Beauty, Accessories Blogs
Why not treat YOURSELF to a gift or two on Black Friday this year?
All that shopping can really wear you down…Don’t let Black Friday get the best of you!
Come into W’s Salon Santana Row on Nov. 27 to pamper your holiday stress away—and get 15% off all products you purchase that day.
After buying for everyone on your list, don’t you deserve something nice for you?
Customers can take their pick from a vast array of Kérastase, Bumble and bumble, and Shu Uemura products, all of which will be eligible for the 15%-Off Black Friday Discount. Feel free to ask the stylists for recommendations and tips on how to use their favorite products.
Please call 408.247.8953 or visit www.wssaloninc.com for more information or to book an appointment.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Beauty Blogs
HMM STYLE WATCH: GOT BAUBLES?
Santana Row does! The Row is filled with magical baubles all for your viewing and shopping pleasure. As you know, I’m a shopping fashionista at Santana Row and it’s a beautiful place to be all year round, although, I admit that the holiday season is the loveliest time of all. The baubles of the season are pretty and bright---and Santana Row really comes alive at night! Here are the latest trendy baubles for your holiday season.
Make a statement with your necklace! Large and sparkling necklaces should be adorned this season day and night –not just for holiday parties. Long or short, thick or thin bright necklace bling is in! Shop and find your new favorite accessory at most Row retailers. I purchased a silver & gold twisted necklace with a huge faux ruby clasp from Beau Bijou. I love it! Other fantastic baubles are dangling earrings or cuff bracelets. So many styles, colors and designs to choose from! Most stores are filled to the brim with new winter and holiday items that make great gifts and lifelong treasures.
Baubles are everywhere this season--on your bejeweled flats, knee high boots or metal gear on your high heels. Baubles are also seen on many holiday handbags this season. Check out Gucci, Burberry, Salvatore Ferragamo and H&M-from hobo purses, canvas bags, totes and clutches.
Speaking of baubles, step into a winter wonderland at Santana Row on Nov. 17th for the Tree Lighting Ceremony. Bring your family and friends to the 8th annual Light up the Row! The tree is the brightest bauble in all of San Jose and vendors from The Row bring a good time to everyone who witnesses this exciting event. Enjoy the merriment that is displayed in every store window, restaurants and the thousands of holiday lights strung from every street corner! The Row does a magnificent job bringing the holidays to everyone who shops, dines, strolls or lives in Santana Row. I feel very thankful this season and slightly less stressed because we are dining at Santana Row this year for Thanksgiving!
Give your thanks this season and start shopping early. Everyone who is good on your list deserves a special bauble!
See you at The Row!
Traci Halvorson
HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt.
www.HMMODELS.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Hotel Valencia’s Fashiontini Thursday’s Review
It's the season for giving, and of course, holiday shopping! Hotel Valencia had their seasonal Fashiontini (fashion show + martini) last Thursday, November 5th in the Valencia ballroom to showcase holiday looks for the upcoming holidays. More importantly, raffle tickets were sold to help raise money for the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital of Stanford!
Franco Uomo, Anthropologie and Anne Fontaine were this Fashiontini's main contenders. Bold and warm colors of dark green, deep blue, maroon, velvet purple with hints of gold and silver were seen throughout the outfits. Anne Fontaine showed us that black & white will always give women the "classic" look, appropriate for any Thanksgiving or Christmas soiree. Anthropolige presented us with adorable and timeless looks that resulted in many "oohs and awes" from the audience. From sophisticated, knitted shalls, satin dresses, warm wrap-around coats, and let's not forget one-of-a-kind jewelry; Anthropologie always brings something unique to the table for any occasion. Hands down. Last but not least, Franco Uomo showcased a collection of fine tailored suits for men. Each model was paired with cufflinks, bow ties and/or handkerchiefs, all of which had impeccable detail. Franco Uomo is your one stop shop for fine tailoring for the well-groomed and handsome man.
We hope that our guests enjoyed a night of fun fashion and left with some ideas for them to look amazing at their next holiday celebration! For more pictures from the night, please visit Hotel Valencia Santana Row’s face book page.
Happy holidays everyone!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Events Blogs
Yankee Pier: Winter Squash
Now that fall is in full swing and winter is just around the corner, winter squashes are popping up in grocery stores and on menus. These are some of the tastiest, longest lasting, most versatile vegetables the season has to offer, full of vitamins and minerals, basically making them the perfect winter food.
These varieties come in many shapes and sizes, from scalloped and large to small and round, with colors ranging from pale yellow to bright reddish orange to blackish green. Most are vine-ripened fruit that are harvested only when fully mature (three months or more), and have developed tough, inedible rinds, quite a contrast from the summer squash, harvested when aren’t quite ripe yet with skins that are often eaten. Because of this, even after harvested, they can last for months in cool temperatures.
Some of the most popular winter squash varieties are acorn, butternut and spaghetti. Acorn squash is, as it sounds, small and shaped like an acorn, with ribs that run the length of its rind. Because of its convenient size (usually 1-3 lbs) and sweet, fibrous flesh, it’s very easy to slice and bake with in pies, breads or muffins. Depending on particular varietals, the color can range from greenish-black to yellow gold.
Butternut squash, probably the most popular of the winter squash, are large and vase-shaped (2-5 lbs), practically screaming autumn with its yellow skin and orange fleshy pulp. When ripe, it becomes increasingly more orange, sweeter and richer, tasting of butterscotch or nuts. Because of this, it is often roasted and featured in sweet and savory applications like soups, salads, gratins and raviolis.
Spaghetti squash, pale ivory to pale yellow and cylinder-shaped (ranging from 3-8 lbs), is easily one of the unsung heroes of the winter season. Its mild, adaptive flavor complements any food that is served alongside it, and it is very low in calories. When raw, it is dense and similar to other squashes but when cooked, its flesh falls away into strands visually similar to spaghetti (hence its name). It is utilized often as a side dish or in casseroles, sometimes with sauces as a play on actual pasta.
From plain ol' pumpkin to banana squash, acorn to spaghetti, these varieties are delicious and more than anything, really let their seasonality shine. So no matter which you choose or how you decide to use it, enjoy it, and eat fresh, eat local, always!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
W’s Salon can give you thicker, longer hair—this Wednesday!
Ever wonder what you would look like with longer or thicker hair, or with a funky color inserted into your current style? Now’s your chance to find out.
W’s Salon, Santana Row, is hosting an extensions event, November 11, at 7:00 PM.
You’ll receive an overview of extensions and a demonstration, and you’ll be eligible for 15% off service if you decide that day that you want to book an extensions appointment.
W’s Salon is San Jose’s only certified Nordic HairContrast Extensions salon. Created with luxurious natural hair, they create the most beautiful looks imaginable.
Seating is limited. Please call (408) 247-8953 to reserve your place.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Beauty Blogs
Sino’s Fashionably Early Menu
Sino's Fashionably Early Menu
Four Courses
4PM-7PM Sunday-Wednesday
Select One Item from Each Course
$30.00/Person
1st Course
Salt & Pepper Soft Shell Crab with Chili & Garlic Bits
Honey Citrus Beef & Frisee
Kung Pao Chicken Lollipop Sprinkle with Crushed Cashew
Maine Lobster Potsticker, Chin Kiang Dipping Vinegar
Steamed Shrimp Har Gow, Butter Broth
2nd Course
Seafood Hot & Sour Soup
Shrimp Wonton Soup
Yeo’s Chinese Chicken Salad
Chef’s Mix Salad with Yuzu Dressing
3rd course
Entrée come with Choice of Steamed White Rice or Steamed Brown Rice
Wok Fired Ginger Filet Medallions, Shao Xing Wine Glaze
Crispy Kumquat Chicken, Fresh Basil
Spicy Dragon Prawns, Cashew Nuts
Tangerine Beef, Szechuan Chili
Orange Honeyed Walnut Prawns, Frisee Salad
Wok Fired Steak, Ginger Garlic Broccolini
Kung Pao Hokkaido Scallop, Chili Garlic Sauce
Dessert
Banana Caramel Mousse, Almond Sponge Cake
Carrot Cake, Brandy Caramel Sauce
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining, Events Blogs
Vbar gets yummy write-up in today’s Merc!
The subject of this week's "Cocktail Chronicles" in today's issue of the Mercury News is our very own Vbar at Hotel Valencia! Sal Pizarro calls the hangout "a stylish place for a cocktail and a great place for people-watching."
Read Sal's entire article here, including his recommendations on their dee-lish menu of cocktails & apps.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining, Events Blogs
Fashionably Early Dining: Straits “Seafood Green Curry” recipe
Seafood Green Curry
Shrimp, Fish, Clams, Mussels, Jalapeno Coconut Curry
$23
Ingredients:
4 Each - P.E.I. Mussels
4 Each - Manila Clams
4 Each - 16-20 Prawns, P&D
2 Ounces - Salmon, cubed
2 Ounces - Seabass, cubed
2 Tablespoons Red Fresno Peppers, sliced
1 Cup - Chicken Stock
12 Ounces - Green Curry
1 Piece - Choy Sum, blanced
2 Sprigs - Cilantro
Method:
1. In a sauté pan, and the mussels, clams, prawns, abalone, salmon, Seabass, peppers and chicken stock. Cook until the mussels and clams start to open.
2. Add the green curry to the pan and bring to a boil while stirring occasionally.
3. Plate the green curry in a large boat.
4. Place the Choy Sum in a hot water bath and drain. Place the Choy Sum on top of the green curry.
5. Garnish the dish with the cilantro.
Click here for full details on the promotion: http://www.santanarow.com/events/item/fashionably_early_dining_at_santana_row/
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining, Events Blogs
Fashionably Early Sneak Peek from Rosie McCann’s
FASHIONABLY EARLY MENU from Rosie McCann's Irish Pub & Restaurant
Available Sunday - Wednesday
Nov. 1st to Dec. 16th, 5-7PM Fixed price: $30
Select One From Each Category:
Starters:
House Salad, Daily Soup or Clam Chowder
Crisp Fried Calamari
parmesan, fresh herbs, jalapenos, spicy aioli
Bacon Wrapped Prawns
parmesan, spicy aioli & organic greens
Entrees:
Prime New York Strip Steak
100% Natural Angus NY with a Dijon mustard cream sauce with roast garlic, scalloped potatoes& vegetables
Grilled Coriander Wild Salmon
Baby spinach, garlic mashed potatoes, jalapeno aioli
Grilled Honey-Chipotle Pork Tenderloin
Grilled boneless natural pork tenderloin in a honey-chipotle glaze with mashed potatoes & asparagus
Desserts:
Guinness-Ghirardelli Chocolate Cake
Bailey's Irish Cream Cheesecake
Bread Pudding with Frangelico cream sauce
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining, Events Blogs
Delicious Deals at Santana Row
Starting November 1st, Santana Row shoppers can get a great deal on a great meal.
To get shoppers in for dinner on the slower days of the week, Santana Row restaurants are offering early-bird specials. Between 5 and 7pm, Sunday to Wednesday, diners can get a full three course meal for $30. And the purchase of two of these “Fashionably Early” entrees comes with two tickets to a local production of The Christmas Story.
After a long day of Christmas shopping, shoppers will definitely enjoy the chance to put their feet up and eat a great meal without breaking the bank.
Check out more details online at: http://www.santanarow.com/events/item/fashionably_early_dining_at_santana_row/
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
Tips for Making the Most out of your Farmers’ Market Trip
Planning a trip to our wonderful Sunday Farmers’ Market? Here are some tips to make it most enjoyable!
- Always bring cash. It will help if you bring small bills and change. You will be paying at each individual farmer’s stand and they usually do not accept checks or credit cards.
- Bring large cloth or net shopping bags to consolidate purchases. Old baby and toddler carts make good shopping carts. When selecting one for use, keep in mind that the market can get crowded and you want something easy to maneuver. If you use a wire folding cart, place a cardboard box with a liner in the bottom of the cart to keep your purchases from pushing through the wire squares.
- Try not to carry a purse. Fanny packs and pockets are the best way to carry money and keys.
- Dress for the weather: most markets are outdoors and not covered. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Usually there is more than one vendor selling a product and prices can vary greatly. Do make sure when comparing prices that you are taking into consideration production methods and package sizes.
- If you decide to try and bargain for a better price, it may not be well received on small quantities. Many times large quantities will get a price break. Do not be afraid to ask.
- Many consumers are curious about the various production methods used by a farmer. Don’t be afraid to ask the farmer about the production practices they use. Some farmers may include this information on their signs. See “Farmers’ Market Speak” for an explanation of different production practices and their terms.
- If you don’t know what it is – ask! The average consumer is only familiar with a handful of fruit and vegetables. To produce vegetables year round a farmer may grow 70 different crops! Expand your cooking horizons and try the new and unusual fruit and vegetables at the market. If you aren’t sure how to prepare it, ask for tips. Farmers may even have recipes available to help you out.
- Handle the produce carefully. Don’t squeeze the tomatoes or peaches with your finger tips. If you want to check for firmness, place them in your palm and flex your hand. To tell if an ear of corn is fully ripe, feel the end of the ear for fullness. If you are unsure of these techniques, ask the farmer to show you.
- Consider how busy the grower is when asking questions. If they have time, most producers are more than happy to discuss the best apple for pies or how they grow their vegetables. Remember that they are not polished sales people but are proud of their products.
- You may want to bring a cooler with a cold pack for your trip home, especially if you plan on purchasing greens, meat, dairy and/or eggs at the market.
Remember, the Santana Row Farmers' Market is every Sunday, 11-3pm, rain or shine!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Events Blogs
HMM STYLE WATCH: ROCKTOBER AT SANTANA ROW!
Have you shopped at Santana Row lately? I love October and Santana Row is rocking this month in all its autumn beauty, plus every store has a beautiful window display and big sales! This season has the best in fashion options I have seen in awhile. I can be an executive wearing neon pink and grey suit or a rock star in leather and sequins at night. I can wear a sweater dress to a luncheon or a black mini skirt with tights on a girl’s night out! I can carry a small studded clutch or an oversized metallic bag. I now have tall leather boots for one day and ankle booties for the next. I can go from a boyfriend blazer to a hip bomber jacket in seconds. You can pair these killer styles with a boot cut or skinny jeans or liquid hot leggings! The options are endless and you don’t have to look very far to get these magazine looks at a great price. It can be overwhelming with all the shopping options at Santana Row but I don’t mind being a slave to the fashion trends this season! Don’t forget your PINK wardrobe item or accessory (scarf or hat)…in baby, bright or neon pink. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month—support the campaign by “going pink” and a major bonus = Pink looks great on everyone!
Rocktober has always been my favorite month of the year, the weather is great day or night. Stroll The Row and enjoy all the outdoor festivities and sample the restaurants creative Octoberfest specials! Santana Row offers everything you could want for your fall fashion appetite.
I found my favorite fall pieces at H&M, BCBG Maxazria, The Blues Jean Bar, Pink Stripes, Urban Outfitters, Boutique Harajuku and Anthropologie. Donald Pliner has the coolest knee high boots—and Gucci has the best looking black and gold studded hobo bag! I am so tempted to splurge for my birthday month! You have to splurge on one item for your birthday---right girls? Any excuse to go shopping and Halloween is almost here! Stay tune for more fun discoveries and events at Santana Row.
PHOTO’S BY: TYLER NUGYENS
See you at The Row!
Traci Halvorson
HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt.
www.HMMODELS.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Accessories, Events Blogs
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Did you know that the pink ribbon—the symbol for breast cancer awareness--was invented in 1991 by Evelyn H. Lauder, founder & president of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and Alexandra Penney, then-editor of Self magazine?
Lauder says, "The ribbon stands for awareness”. And it inspires the worldwide community to help women and men survive - and conquer- this disease.
Let’s take it a step further and have fun with Atelier’s Pink Strands, and support this worthy cause at the same time!
During the month of October, for every set of Pink Strands purchased, Atelier will donate $5 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
These easy-to-use, clip-in, pink hair extensions are just $15 for a set of two, and we’ll even show you how to add them to your hair!
Call for your “Pink Strands” appointment today — a 15-minute demonstration by one of Atelier’s Artists.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Blogs
Great Breakfast Recipes, About 300 Calories Each
We have all heard the phrase, “breakfast is the most important meal of the day”. Yet, many of us don’t eat breakfast. A couple of our excuses are that we don’t have enough time in the morning, or that we are not hungry. Yet, one of the best ways to increase our metabolism is to eat breakfast. It is also an important way to get our brains focused for the day.
So here are some breakfast ideas for you (Adapted from Fitness Magazine, September 2007):
Each breakfast is approximately 300 calories.
Waffle
- 1 frozen whole grain waffle
- ½ cup low-fat plain yogurt or ¼ cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup fresh berries or frozen mixed berries, thawed
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
To make: Toast waffle and top with yogurt, berries and maple syrup
Oatmeal
- 1 packet plain instant oatmeal
- ½ cup skim milk
- 1 small apple, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon walnuts, chopped
To make: prepare oatmeal with milk. Microwave apple, cinnamon and brown sugar for 1 to 2 minutes. Top oatmeal with apples and walnuts.
Eggs
- 1 egg plus 2 egg whites
- ¼ cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons spicy salsa
- 2 tablespoons cheddar cheese
- 1 whole grain tortilla
To make: In a pan over medium heat, scramble all ingredients together. Fill tortilla with mixture.
Toast
- 1 slice whole grain bread
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 ounces low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup sliced peaches
To make: toast bread. Stir vanilla into cottage cheese. Top toast with cottage cheese and peaches.
Yogurt
- 5 ounces fat-free Greek Yogurt
- ¼ cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1 cup whole grain cereal
- 1 tablespoon honey
To make: top yogurt with apricots, cereal and honey.
Enjoy!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Blogs
Fall Fashion Recap #2
Fall Fashion week at Santana Row was fabulous! Did you go? The hottest ticket in San Jose was two days of four shows and 25 top HMM models working the runway at Santana Row. Red Haute Co. produced another winning show with great scenes and fantastic music. It’s not easy producing a MEGA SIZE show—with each scene requiring major model wardrobe items and props to match. The models showed off more than stylish clothes--we also saw on stage trendy shoes/boots, hats, gloves, sunglasses, purses, luggage and sporting gear!
Big thanks to everyone who helped in this year’s fall fashion show: producers + crew, Santana Row retailers, models, dancers, dressers, make-up artists, photographers all did an amazing job! Santana Row is the perfect place to shop and dine and to host a major high fashion runway show!
Tickets sold out for all shows and the food & wine served was delicious. The store vendors had a beautiful boutique spread, for a pre-show shopping extravaganza! I purchased gold earrings from Beau Bijou and a gorgeous sparkling bracelet from Pink Stripes!
The models showcased an exciting array of fall and winter fashions from Santana Row retailers. First scene was must have black & whites from Anne Fontaine to the sexy Blues Jean Bar & Foot Candy----and then preppy meets chic from Brooks Brothers. So much eye candy and colors this season ----the male models dazzled the crowds and the girls shined like stars with the glamorous audience! The models had 18 scenes of fabulous clothing, who can forget Boutique Harajuku scene with the trendy leggings and bold colors to the finale of sharp dressed men from Eli Thomas and the gorgeous gowns from Penelope.
I hope you all enjoyed the show as must as we did! Stay tune for future fashion blog updates and style watching from HMM. The winner from the Santana Row model search is Lisa Greating. Lisa has won a 1-year modeling contract with Halvorson Model Management! Thanks to everyone who participated this year!
Go shopping and enjoy the exciting fall fashions at all the fabulous retailers in Santana Row!.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
MODEL PHOTOS BY: NICK CHIGIREV
See you at The Row!
Traci Halvorson
HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt.
www.HMMODELS.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Beauty, Accessories, Events Blogs
Yankee Pier: Hawaiian Ahi Poke Recipe
When the summer dies down but the heat doesn’t necessarily, the itch for the last light, refreshing meals of the season comes. Autumn is around the corner, and with it comes heartier fare, comfort food. What better way to say goodbye to summer than a bright fish dish like ahi, seared or sashimi-style?
Yellowfin tuna is found in tropical and subtropical open waters all around the world, most notably in the Hawaiian regions. Its Hawaiian name, ‘ahi, meaning fire, was borne from its history of stirring so fiercely in canoes in that the line would start to smoke against the wood the canoes were carved from. Its English name has a much simpler explanation, its dorsal and anal fins a bright yellow hue.
The foot-ball shaped body of the fish is dark metallic blue, becoming silver on the belly. Its meat, however, is pale (smaller fish) to dark pink (larger fish), lighter than its more popular but unsustainable cousin, Blue Fin tuna, whose meat is dark red like raw beef with a slightly stronger flavor. Its meat becomes an ivory color when cooked all the way through, although this is not typically how it is served, as it loses its moisture, its juiciness and its firm, steak-like bite, the more that it is cooked.
Usually most abundant between May and September but available year-round, Yellowfin are a popular sport and game fish, prized for their both their speed and strength and culinary possibilities.
Ahi comes in different grades, definitely the most popular being sushi-grade, the highest quality, perfect for searing or sashimi-style, sliced thick and finished with ingredients like wasabi, ginger and soy. This is also the best quality of tuna for poke, a traditional Hawaiian dish made with bite-sized pieces of raw fish. For centuries, fishermen would catch the fish, cut it up and season it with whatever was available (serving as a peasant-style comfort food), as poke means “cut or small piece.” In a modern context, it has crossed these boundaries and now is seen in a more elevated light; more upscale than previously considered, and often features umami flavors such as soy sauce, green onion and sesame seeds.
Yankee Pier’s version is particularly delicious.
Ahi Poke
3 oz Yellowfin tuna, ½ inch cubes
¼ cup heirloom tomato, diced
1 tablespoon shallots, minced
1 teaspoon cilantro, chopped
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons Arame seaweed, bloomed in water and drained
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 butter lettuce leaves
1 tablespoon green onion, thinly sliced
Combine tuna, tomatoes, shallots, cilantro, red pepper flakes, sesame oil, soy sauce and seaweed in a small mixing bowl. Mix gently to combine all ingredients. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Place two medium sized butter lettuce leaves in the center of a round salad plate and flatten slightly. Place poke mixture on top of the lettuce in a nice mound. Garnish with a sprinkling of green onion.
Eat fresh, eat local, always!!!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
Santana Row Fashion Show Report: Good Clothes and Good Causes
When we parted ways last week, I was to attend a fabulous fashion show in Santana Row, andfabulous it was! As you can see from the picture above the setting was immaculate, elegant and chic! I had a desirable second row seat, and loved being up close to the action.
Upon entering the coveted roped off area, my date and I enjoyed a beverage provided by Vintage Wine Merchants. I could see the seething glare of the Real Housewives of Santana Row, behind their Gucci shades, wondering where their invite to this exclusive party was. The atmosphere was humming, the pseudo red carpet for paparazzi pictures was packed, the line for the hors d'oeuvres was long, and the beverage table boasted dozens of empty wine bottles, everyone was in good spirits!
Soon after taking my seat, a little too close to starting time- a la celebrity- the clubby music began. And out came designs from Santana Row's very own boutiques and merchants on amazonian women--and men! First up were designs from Anne Fontaine, strutting down the curvy runway to French pop!
Some of my favorites were:Y-3, Cole Haan, Anthropologie, Oakley, St. Croix, Brooks Brothers, Lucy, Boutique Harijuku, Donald J. Pliner, and obvi all the shoes!
From sizzling secretary wrap dresses at Brooks Brothers, to runner chic, sporty spandex at Y-3, everything was well styled and put together. I thoroughly enjoyed the hi-low mix of brands, the great outfit selections for women, men and children, and loved that there was a bridal segment, this show had it all!
The warm summer night beckoned me to dress the part, so I opted out of fashion black, and went with a cobalt blue cap sleeve zippered number, with a studded belt, vintage clutch, and ferociously high, five inch heels! To bad I didn't get a full outfit pic-I was kinda fierce!
The proceeds for Friday's night events went to the Hispanic Foundation of Sillicon Valley, and the show's turnout was amazing. Thanks so much to Ed Kiley and his team for allowing me to attend this memorable event (and Francisco for being my photographer)!!!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Accessories, Events Blogs
Flying Lizard Design: New Jewels at Santana Row!
If you haven’t heard yet, there is a new FABULOUS jewelry store at Santana Row called Flying Lizard Design. They are located in the middle of the block between Borders and Anthropologie. It is a true gem for Santana Row. If you’re into fun, trendy jewelry, but don’t want to spend an arm and a leg, this is the place for you! I went in there to look for some jewelry to go with my outfit for my baby shower. There was SOOO much to choose from. Definitely some was out of my price range. However, a majority was well within my range. I’m typically a Nordstrom jewelry shopper and this blows them out of the water. I found a much better selection here. The service was awesome and the woman who helped me had great recommendations.
And there’s more, they even carry reasonable handbags too! It is worth browsing through so be sure to check this new store out. You won’t be disappointed!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Santana Row W’s Salon Stylists Chosen to Create Looks for Macy’s Passport Fashion Extravaganza
Macy’s has selected W's Salon owner and visionary creative director William Soriano to style the hair fashions for their "Passport" event. Now in its 27th year, this fundraiser has generated over $28 million to support HIV/AIDS charities and research projects.
The event will take place at two venues, Sept. 16 through 17 at the Fort Mason Center in San Francisco, and Sept. 24 through 25 at the Santa Monica Air Center in Los Angeles. William will design several styles for each of the 90 personalities he and his team are charged with. The talented team of stylists will style subjects ranging from models, dancers and actors, to aerialists, an opera singer and the Harajuku girls.
Audiences in San Francisco and Los Angeles will delight in the allure of celebrities and entertainers, a runway full of the season’s hottest fashions, and the glamorous hairstyle creations of William and his team. Tickets for both locations can be purchased at www.blueroomevents.com/passport.
W's Salon is led by award-winning creative director, William Soriano, who channels the high fashion and high art of Paris, Milan and New York into a multi-faceted vision for his salon in the Bay Area's prestigious Santana Row. William's team doesn't just follow current trends but creates lasting and unique styles for discerning clientele. For more information or to book an appointment online, please visit www.wssaloninc.com.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Beauty, Events Blogs
Blues Jean Bar: The Blues Goes Green
“Socially-conscious shopping” used to mean hemp pants and tie-dye shirts, but Santana Row’s The Blues Jean Bar has given green a new style! For back to school and holiday gifts, buying green can mean choosing clothing made in the US, looking for items made with recycled materials, or buying products that donate part of their proceeds to a cause. A great gift idea for high school students are TOMS shoes. TOMS are some of the coolest shoes around right now and for each pair sold the company donates a pair to a child in need. A must have for the frequent traveler are the Matt & Nat overnight bags. Matt & Nat designs a high end line of eco-friendly handbags that stylish, well-made, and even vegan! Chaser LA and Coke have teamed up to make reusable tote bags made from recycled soda bottles, great for grocery shopping, carrying books at school, or daily use.
The Jeantenders at the Blues are extremely knowledgeable about the denim lines and are always eager to show off lines made in the USA. If you’re a fan of raw denim, the BJB carries OneCulture Denim, a local company based in San Francisco. Founded by Mark Carter, the line has a 1970s inspiration and a fashionable way to shop locally! OneCulture denim is unwashed which uses less chemicals and is better for the environment. PRVCY (Pronounced Privacy) Premium Denim is all over celebrities like Rihanna, Eva Longoria, and Jennifer Lopez, and a perfect example of a socially conscious company. Not only does PRVCY design great fitting jeans, but PRVCY also gives back by donating ten percent of all sales to breast cancer awareness. Also, you also have the choice to not use a shopping bag to further help the Blues reduce, reuse, and recycle!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Hotel Valencia’s Art & Sole event
If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, then shoes come very close to second. To some shoes are a fetish, but to others, shoes are a piece of art.
Cielo, Hotel Valencia’s 7th floor roof top terrace, hosted a wonderful art & music benefit on 9.9.09 and fundraised close to $2,000 for Soles4Souls.org! The room was filled with diversity, smooth new soul music, and a unique art exhibit containing pieces of art on drawn creatively on shoes. A crowd of more than 100 guests, many who were from the HMM Modeling Agency, gathered to support fashion, music and the arts of local San Jose artists. Raffle prizes were awarded to those who donated a pair of shoes!
The “season of giving” is slowly approaching and Art & Sole was Hotel Valencia and its patron’s jumpstart way of giving back to our community. Thanks to everyone that supported this artful cause!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories, Events Blogs
Santana Row Fashion Show Preview: Here Comes the HMM Mod Squad!
Exciting events are happening this week at Santana Row! GOT YOUR RUNWAY TICKET? The hottest fashion show in the Bay Area this week: Sept. 11th and Sept 12th! Santana Row has 2 days and nights of fashion models parading down the runway. Some like it hot and some like it cool—both styles and fashions will be seen on the models, two show per day on a mega size stage. The MOD squad has arrived in San Jose--a parade of “Models On Duty” getting ready for the big fashion event.
The boys are in town and I don’t mean the SHARKS players---although, they are back in San Jose getting ready for another hockey season--wahoo! HMM’s top male models are here and will be strutting their style this Friday and Saturday—something you don’t want to miss! The hunks from last year—Josh, Lee, Hiro , Steve and Will and new hotties to keep your attention-Joshua, Andy, Gabriel and Joseph! To see more of the boys –check out their portfolio pics on http://www.HMMODELS.com
The girls have been in town and have much more preparation then the boys….what’s new! They have hair, nails and make-up that must be perfect and ready to wear. Hair this year is a slick back-trendy braid in bun. The make-up for fall fashion is a smoky eyelid with glossy pale lips. The hottest fall and winter fashions will have everyone talking, so get ready to shop—the stores will be having great deals and sales all week!
You can see plenty of models all over Santana Row shopping, eating and playing. Models should always have a fresh and healthy look. Clothing is simple and stylish and fun to wear. Get you model look on and go shopping at Santana Row! HMM will be at all 4 shows and enjoying the model parties all week at Cielo’s, V-Bar, Straights and Sino’s.
Do you have what it takes to be a model? If so, fill out an HMM agency application located at SANTANA ROW’s CONCIERGE by Sept 12th. HMM will pick a winner and sign them to a 1-year modeling contract! GOOD LUCK!
SEE YOU AT THE SHOW!
Traci Halvorson
HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt
www.HMMODELS.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Accessories, Events Blogs
Atelier AVEDA: Braids are back!
There is a small slice of summer left—plenty of time to break out another perfect relaxed summer hairstyle that will even take you into autumn.
Braids—simple or complex—can give your hair a sexy, bohemian look that can take you from pool to party or from workday to sashay! The most popular braid is the French braid. A tight version of a French braid is one where the braid lays along the scalp, incorporating hair into the braid as you go, to create a neat, controlled look. Be sure to use a product like Aveda’s Control Paste to keep the flyways down.
You can start with a middle part for a symmetrical style, or a side part for a more asymmetrical look; bangs out or worked into the braid. The long section you’re left with at the end can be wound up into a bun, or left out and braided down and secured with an elastic band. This can be worn for a day or two, and as it loosens up, the resulting softness takes this style into a bed-heady look that is a perfect complement to a bohemian outfit. If you’re not adept with French braids, consider booking a styling appointment with your favorite stylist, and have them give you a mini-lesson while they put in your French braid style. Then, practice, practice, practice!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty, Accessories Blogs
Santana Row’s HMM STYLE WATCH: SHE’S GOT THE LOOK!
Exciting events are happening at Santana Row! DAY OR NIGHT—Something hot or cool is going on…..Speaking of *HOT*, San Jose’s top model agency, HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt., has just booked 25 beautiful models to show off the hottest trends for the FALL FASHION SHOW’S on Sept. 11th & Sept 12th! Don’t miss Santana Row’s greatest show of the year! An outdoor show on a mega size stage showcasing fashions from over 20 stores! Tickets on sale now!
The female runway models are local professional models from the Bay Area---no jet planes arriving to bring in the supermodels—they exist right here in Silicon Valley! The girls are a cool mix of the classic beauty, the sexy-edgy look, and the fresh sweetheart face. Some of the stars from last year are- Zadasha, Nicole, Kristin, KatieSue and Amber and some of the new faces are—Jordan, Paloma, Julie, Janna, Anamika, Laquana and Szu. Hot new discoveries are Carly, Courtney and Kelly (see faces below) …plus a whole lot more girls then you can imagine! You can check out their model photos and stats on HMM’s website: www.hmmodels.com
This year we have two special additions to the normal model crew; Introducing Shannon and Veronica , who will be the Santana Row “sign girls” and strut their walk between each scene! We will talk about the boys on our next week’s blog—so stay tuned!
Models should always have a fresh and healthy look. Clothing is classic, trendy and always easy but stylish. Get your model look on and go shopping at Santana Row! We will be out in full force at Santana Row scouting faces and the hottest trends. SPOTTED this week: JEGGING: A jean textured legging—found at The Blues Jean Bar. Must own for fall- Hot!
Think you have what it takes to be a fashion model? It’s easy, just fill out an HMM model application located at SANTANA ROW’s concierge. Drop off form + photo by SEPT 12th. The Halvorson Model crew will look through each application and pick a lucky winner and sign them to a 1-year modeling contract! GOOD LUCK!
SEE YOU AT THE ROW!
Traci Halvorson
HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Beauty, Accessories, Events Blogs
ClubOne at Santana Row: Weight Loss Tips & Planning Ahead
One important key to losing weight and keeping it off is actually simple--plan ahead! In other words if you fail to plan, you plan to fail! It may sound like work at first but once you get to know things in your mind it only becomes easier and easier as time goes by.
Also while planning, check in with your attitude. Rather than thinking of it as a time consuming hassle and chore, look at it as something that simplifies your life and frees you up. It conserves those precious minutes in a hectic week. It saves you the burden of having to make choices (which sometimes are not always in your best interest). Mostly though, it’s helping you to achieve long term success with weight management and healthy eating!
It’s all about habit. Remember when you first started your job? You had to go through training. Think of this as a training period.
The following are some hints that can make it all work for you:
Make it a priority to plan and shop at least once a week, no matter what! Schedule it in. Keep your menus posted on the refrigerator, on your calendar, or even on your Microsoft Outlook for quick reference.
In your kitchen have a pad of paper available to write down items as you run out of them. Then, when you go to the grocery store, part of your list is made.
Make sure you purchase some vegetables/fruits that have a longer shelf life (or frozen) so you have these left at the end of the week. Eat the most perishable produce early in your week.
BBQ’ing on the weekends is a fun social event, as well as easy and healthy cooking. (Without all the beer and chips, of course!)
In your leisure time: while watching TV, on the phone, or house cleaning, make up the simple things that you can freeze:
* brown rice (use a rice steamer and bag up individual or family serving sizes)
* whole wheat pasta
* soups (watch sodium levels – bean and veggie soups freeze well)
* chicken breasts (use a George Foreman Grill)
Remember you can always buy ready to go fresh salad mixings and vegetables which are precut and washed, but use them quickly as they lose their nutrient and taste values. You can also buy a whole roasted chicken, cooked and ready to go at most grocery stores.
A quick and easy lunch or dinner would be an herb salad mix (bought at Trader Joes or other grocery store), cut up cooked chicken or salmon, diced veggies, and low fat dressing. You can also add your veggies and protein from the night before.
When cooking family meals or entertaining cook double portions and freeze the leftovers in individual/family servings for future use. The Food Saver is great for this!
Costco’s paper cups, Ziploc, Glad and Press n’ Seal make great disposable freezer containers.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty Blogs
Yankee Pier at Santana Row: Lend Me Your Ears
Perhaps more than anything else, corn is the quintessential summer food. There’s nothing like going to a barbecue and watching those kernels swell up on a grill. And since we’re approaching the end of summer, there’s no time like the present to get in on the action.
You may have heard corn referred to as maize. This is derivative of the Spanish form of the indigenous Taino word for the plant, maiz. Here it is used more in a global or agricultural context, while in culinary contexts, United States, and other English-speaking countries merely refer to it as ‘corn.’ And if we’re talking about cooking and eating, more often than not, ‘sweet corn.’
Sweet corn is a variety of maize with a higher sugar content, the result of a naturally-occurring recessive mutation in the genes which control conversion of sugar to starch inside the endosperm of the kernel itself, more or less a spontaneous mutuation. Other field corn varieties are usually picked when fully mature (when the kernels have gone dry), sweet corn is picked before this, eaten as a vegetable rather than a grain. Because of its premature harvesting, sweet corn does not store well and should be eaten or frozen within just a day or two, before the kernels become tough and too starchy.
The first recorded instance of sweet corn (called Papoon) was a gift from the Iroquois to European settlers in 1779. Many other Native American tribes grew and cherished this open-pollinated crop and it soon became popular in the southern and central United States. Sweet corn’s production from the 20th century onward changed because separate gene mutations were discovered and studied, allowing the ability to breed based on sweetness levels. Shortly thereafter, hybridization began, allowing for improved quality, uniform maturity and resistance to disease.
Nowadays we are blessed with a supercorn of sorts, a vegetable ridden with potassium and vitamin A, sweet and versatile, a staple for cuisines of all types. Simple and delicious, sweet corn is perfect merely grilled or boiled with a pat of butter and a sprinkling of salt (or lime juice and chile powder), but can be transformed into lovely chowders, muffins, even flans. The possibilities are truly endless.
I personally would recommend purchasing sweet corn at a farmer’s market (look for tight, bright green husks and golden silk) rather than a supermarket, to ensure the freshest possible, in summer months especially Brentwood corn, the cream of the crop of fresh and local corn. Corn aficionados (and fellow growers as well) head to Oakland’s Jack London Square’s farmers’ market early as possible for ears and ears of this reputable corn (it WILL sell out), picked early in the morning in the fields of Brentwood, just an hour or so northwest of San Francisco. Brentwood used to be in the middle of a thriving agricultural region, whereas now it is the last agrarian stronghold against the steady development and urbanization of the greater Bay area. If you see this label, don’t hesitate.
Eat fresh, eat local, always!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
Santana Row Fashion Show Preview: HMM’S PROJECT RUNWAY
Exciting events are coming to Santana Row! HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt. and Red Haute & Co. have teamed up and are getting ready for this year’s annual Santana Row fall fashion shows. San Jose’s largest runway project is officially underway at Santana Row! HMM has just booked 25 fabulous models for the hottest show in Northern California! Beverly of Red Haute & Co. and her crew work very hard to select the best runway talent and organize and produce a spectacular show!
Don’t wait to book your tickets for Sept. 11th & Sept 12th! Tickets go fast—regular seating w/ champagne=$40, VIP stage seating, free valet and unlimited champagne=$60. What a steal! Plus, pre-boutique shopping and so much more in these packages –it’s truly the deal of the year!
Santana Row’s runway project is a huge undertaking of designing the stage from the ground up and each year has a different style and theme. The stage is massive and will be set in front of Left Bank in Santana Row Park. The lights and angles are awesome for day or evening viewing. You can view the show from the sidelines, several restaurants or the best seats are the inner circle party around the runway stage.
After a long day of runway auditions, the models were chosen and we hope you enjoy the mix of looks and welcome them as you do each year! The fall model request is for unique and trendy mix of faces, ages and ethnicities. The HMM models earned their spot in this year’s show –the competition was fierce and the best of the bunch were selected.
We will blog more on the models as we get closer to the show! The women are a mix of classic beauty, edgy look, and the fresh sweetheart face. The men’s looks range in classic handsome, genuine studs and gossip guy babes. Hot!
Think you have what it takes to model? HMM is looking for you! Male & females ages 16-40 can pick up a model application at SANTANA ROW’s CONCIERGE! Its easy-- attach a recent photo and return the form to the concierge by Sept 12th. One winner will receive a model contract with HMM!
See you at The Row!
Traci Halvorson
HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt
www.HMMODELS.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Beauty, Events Blogs
SANTANA ROW W’s SALON STYLIST DOES HAIR FOR ARMANI COUTURE SHOW
William Soriano, Creative Director and Owner of W’s Salon at Santana Row, recently returned from the Fall 2009 Haute Couture runway show in Paris where he and a team of international stylists created trend-setting hairstyles for Giorgio Armani, Valentino and Givenchy.
This was William’s third year to be part of the team that styles the hair for Fashion Week New York, Milan, and Paris. When asked how it felt to realize his lifelong dream of working with Giorgio Armani, William said, “The whole mood of the moment seemed surreal. Being back stage with the fashion industry’s top designers, celebrities and models; seeing all the new clothes, shoes and accessories for this fall; and being part of the creative team that actually creates the look for the show. It was very inspiring”
To see these beautiful hairstyles, go to: www.style.com/fashionshows/collections/F2009CTR/
W’s Salon is located on Olin Avenue in Santana Row. The Salon is led by William Soriano, an award-winning creative director who uses his artistic energy to infuse his team of stylists and clients alike with trend-setting ideas, technical expertise and a fine eye for detail.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion Blogs
Working at The Row
One of the most rewarding experiences gained while working in Santana Row is all of the wonderful people you meet. In addition, the people who you bring to Santana Row always seem to know someone who works here as well. And I have been introduced to so many amazing friends in this manner. It never seems to fail. Walking down The Row I see familiar faces and they say hi. It is a rewarding experience to know that the people around you know who you are and have the heart to share their day with you.
I have not blogged in the past few weeks due to some hurtles I had to scale. And I am glad to say I completed my challenges. It is funny how life seems to throw you into a place where your survival mode kicks in, and next thing you know you are blossoming and transforming into a new individual. It takes an experience of this nature in life to show you how strong and how brave you really are. They are unwelcome at first, but in the end, you go from a caterpillar to a butterfly.
I am proud to be a part Santana Row, and it just keeps getting better. The Fall Fashion Shows are coming up in September, I cannot wait to see all of the smiling faces, and of course, the FASHION! Halverson Model Management always brings the most amazing, fresh, new faces to the runway. I will be there, of course, live blogging, sharing my experiences, and taking photos of the models, and the fans. So I hope you all join me, because it will be an experience to remember!
So in short, I want to thank you all for reading my blog, and hanging in there for these past few weeks that I have been M.I.A. Sean is back, and he is even better than before. I cannot wait to talk to you all again next week.
Sean
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Events Blogs
Santana Row’s Back to School Event Details
There's no such thing as a free lunch, right? Well, there is if you come to Santana Row's Back to School event next Friday! Wahoo's is giving away free tacos! That's right, you've heard all the buzz, now I've got the inside scoop of all the shopping and dining discounts you get at Santana Row just for being a student.
Hungry for more? How about a free mini cupcake at Kara's or a free extra topping at Pinkberry! Don't have a sweet tooth? Try this on for size: 20% off at Pink Stripes, 10% off at The Blues Jean Bar and 15% off at Footcandy. Don't worry, it's not just about the clothes. Santana Row is actually getting you ready to go back to school with 20% off at The Container Store and special deals on MacBooks at Best Buy.
Plus, there's tons of in-store events, like health and fitness tips at Club One (yep, students get a discount on membership too), open mic night at Borders and Irish trivia games and prizes at Rosie McCann's Irish Pub and Restaurant. That's right, I said Rosie McCann's. You can stay for lunch and dinner with all the yummy specials going on - Subway, Pluto's, Pasta Pomodoro, The Counter, Thea, and oh yea, and I already mentioned Wahoo's!
Oh, and speaking of Wahoo's, they're giving away a pair of Green Day tickets! So, be sure to stop by and enter to win when you pick up your free taco (I think I've mentioned that). What I didn't mention is that just for picking up this discount card, all students are entered to win a prize pack that includes $250 to The Container Store AND a Netbook from Best Buy, and more!
And that's just some of it... now you have to actually pick up the card to find out the rest. So we'll see you there - Friday, August 14 at Santana Row. Pick up your card at Oakley or the Santana Row Concierge and head back to school in style!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Dining, Beauty, Accessories, Events Blogs
Atelier Salons at Santana Row: Experiments of a Hairdresser
I've just finished reading an interesting book by the French Philosopher, Roger-Pol Droit, about experiments in the philosophy of everyday life. It encourages the reader to look at our usual activities in a new way. It opened my eyes to many possibilities. One of his experiments involves going to the hairdresser. His view was an interesting one, more esoteric than I would like, but it did make me think about what our role is in society and what possibilities there are in something as seemingly simple as a hair appointment.
It does seem fairly straightforward. You need a haircut, you make an appointment and you go get one. Someone washes your hair, cuts it, blow dries it, and off you go.
Droit muses that you might leave the salon taller or with a different eye color. Or that perhaps the hairdresser is some kind of angel, who can perform feats of divine salvation. He considers the idea that the visit is a rendezvous with your own destiny, an unparalleled transformation that is accompanied by heavenly music.
Fantasies of beauticians as magicians aside, I've seen all of that happen.
The self-confidence a new, more youthful hairstyle gives someone causes them to walk a bit straighter. Haircolor that flatters one's skin tone certainly can bring out a beautiful eye color or make a green eye even greener.
A hairstylist with a great idea for updating a look can earn gasps of, "Oh my god, you're a genius!"
If you get just the right new look, it can seem as if this is the hairstyle you've been waiting for your whole life--destiny!
And, when you style it yourself at home and it all falls into place, doesn't it sometimes seem that you hear Handel's Hallelujah chorus in your head?
At Atelier, our hair services are accompanied by complimentary "moments of wellness", little niceties like hand treatments, organic tea, makeup touchups, etc. We look at the usual hair appointment in a new and wonderful way. Ah yes, salvation exists.
At your service,
Karie Bennett
Founder, Atelier Salons
www.atelieraveda.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Beauty Blogs
Haute Summer Nights at Santana Row!
August is normally a very hot month in San Jose---hot weather, hot parties, hot entertainment and hot fashions! Hot summer nights are the best time to put on a slinky dress or jeans and cool off at Santana Row. There is so much going on every night of the week---something for everyone! Click the "EVENTS" on Santana Row's website!
It's also hot in the modeling industry--HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt. {Silicon Valley's top model agency}-has just booked 18 fabulous runway models (male and female) for Santana Row's fall fashion in the park! Mark your calendar for this special two day fashion show event: Sept. 11th and Sept. 12th. Why should you go? To experience a fun and entertaining high fashion runway show and preview the latest haute couture fall styles and trends. Who should you go with? Your BFF, your spouse and kids, your boss, mother-in law or new boyfriend! Tickets go on sale at Santana Row=AUGUST 1st-so don't miss out!
Each model has been carefully selected by Santana Row based on their look, walk and image. This year was tough competition for the models-----lots of new faces and seasoned pros auditioned! They were all required to be tall and strut their best runway walk for Santana Row. Exciting--Yes! Top Models in San Jose -you bet! We will feature the chosen runway models on this style watch blog to get you acquainted with the faces in the show! There will be several opportunities to meet HMM and the models during the event and at other Santana Row stores.
For now, it's the calm before the storm-HMM and the models will be enjoying the hot August summer nights having fun at The Row! It will be September soon and the countdown to last minute show and model preparations will begin. The gals are fierce and seriously stylish - and the guys are handsome with GQ style---sounds just like the shoppers at Santana Row!
Don't forget tickets go on sale AUGUST 1st and they go fast! Stay tuned for exciting model and style watch updates! See you at The Row!
HMM MODEL: Jordan Photo: Frank Anzalone
Traci Halvorson
HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt
www.HMMODELS.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Events Blogs
Yankee Pier: Tis the Season for Summer Squash
The English word squash is derived from a word from the Narrangansett language, akutasquash, which means a green thing eaten raw. Which although isnt always the case with squash, it is more so with the summer variety.
Although there is evidence of cultivated squash in Mesoamerica 10,000 years ago, its most remembered emergence was via Native Americans. They were responsible for growing three main indigenous plants used for agriculture purposes (the Three Sisters); squash, corn and beans, planted together, their individual components helping each other grow successfully.
In North America, squash (or marrow) are loosely subset into two groups, summer and winter, based entirely on how mature the plant is upon harvested.
The winter squash (pumpkin, butternut, etc) are harvested at full maturity, and are cured to harden the skin for eating later. The summer squash (zucchini, pattypan and yellow crookneck) are harvested during the growing season, allowing for smaller sized squash with more tender flesh and delicate flavor. Because of its soft skin the rind is edible, as opposed to winter squash, and requires little to no cooking, which allows for more versatility in dishes. However, because of their fragility, it is important when purchasing or picking to be on the lookout for bruises, which can affect their texture and taste.
Once summer squash is scrubbed and rinsed, the stem cut off and the other end scraped, youre pretty much ready to use. Only if the skin is unusually rough or gritty should you have to peel the squash before cooking or eating.
It can be served raw in crudite-type applications on vegetable platters or in salads, pureed into a soup, sauted with herbs and olive oil, deep fried, baked with cheese in a gratin, or stuffed with meat or cheese. Even the blossoms, leaves and shoots can be eaten and are often a delicious touch in soups or omelets.
No matter how you choose to cook (or eat) these sweet, flavorful squash, be sure to get them before the seasons over, and eat fresh, eat local, always!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
Love to Dine & Shop with Your Girlfriends at Santana Row?
Santana Row is running this fabulous promotion that I MUST tell you about. My girlfriends and I celebrated my 30th birthday at Santana Row last Saturday. I was bummed for this birthday because I am pregnant and felt like I can't REALLY enjoy my b-day like I've done in the past. I came across the Santana Row promotion - Love to Dine. Stay to Shop. This promotion allows you to call Concierge and set up a shopping day at your favorite store and then a dinner for your party at one of the restaurants. They coordinate everything! You just give them your preferences and they will do the rest. Plus, it was no extra charge for the shopping event or services from Concierge.
So my girlfriends and I headed to Furla (handbags & accessories) and was greeted by the fabulous host, Becky, manager of Furla. She had a FULL spread of incredible appetizers, wine and sparkling water (for the pregnant women of the group) for us to enjoy as we shop around. We all ate, drank, and browsed casually through the store trying on our favorite accessories. There was no pressure to buy at all, but Furla did extend great discounts to our group. We ALL ended up buying something. We stayed for almost 2 hours as we all tried to decide what we wanted. What a treat!
Then we headed across the street to Santana Row's newest restaurant, LB Steak. We were set up right near the front of the restaurant on a long table that was perfect for our party. Again, we enjoyed wonderful food, drinks, and dessert. The manager, Denise, was fantastic and checked in on us to make sure we were enjoying ourselves. The atmosphere there was lively, yet quaint enough for us to have great conversation. The menu was well priced and the service was fantastic. You must give it a try!
All in all, my birthday was fantastic. It was such a fun way to celebrate my birthday with friends. What woman doesn't want to shop and eat with friends! I recommend anyone who is hosting a dinner or party to try this promotion out. It was so easy to set up and made for a great day for everyone! Now its going to be a seasonal tradition with my friends!
Check out the Love To Dine. Stay to Shop Promotion on Santana Row's Web site here: http://www.santanarow.com/events/lovetodine/
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining, Accessories, Events Blogs
Yankee Pier Recipe: You Like Tomayto… I Like Tomahto
The sun is shining, the air is still, it's perfect weather for growing fruit.
Yes, the long-withstanding argument over whether a tomato is a fruit or vegetable seems laughable now, considering that the tomato, whose more specific name is lycopersicum, means "wolf-peach." Botanically, there can be no argument, as it is an ovary (with its seeds) of a flowering plant. Though not typically used in 'sweet' applications, the acidity can vary and many varieties of tomatoes can be considered so.
Heirlooms, for example. These mysterious things are special because they are open-pollinated (self-pollinating) rather than hybrids or genetically modified varieties. Because of this, it is often that they become genetically homozygous with seeds that grow to resemble parent tomatoes. Because it is nature's touch and not our own, cultivars that were commonly grown during earlier periods in human history, even over a hundred years ago, are still grown today. The early heirlooms did not change much and were kept in communities for long periods of time, earning their name in the truest sense-- taken care of and handed down from one generation to the next.
But why does that make them so special? Because they don't look like your average dull red tomatoes you'd find on your burger at McDonalds, that's why! And they certainly don't taste like them either. They can be found in an amazing variety of shapes, colors, sizes and most importantly, tastes. Orange and yellow varieties (such as Big Rainbows, Golden Jubilee and Kellog's Breakfast) can add sweetness to a dish with low acidity, whereas red, purple and black ones (Beefsteaks, Black Krims and Black Cherries) offer a lovely sweet yet tart balance. The pale to green varieties (White Wonders and Emerald Evergreens) have higher acidity and are complimented by cooking, perfect for sauces or salsas.
However, to really taste summer-ripened heirlooms in all their glory, I say eat them raw, at room temperature. You should never refrigerate heirlooms because they are so delicate. Their skins will become tough and the flavor will mellow out; in essence, they will lose their best qualities. They are certainly some of the most temperamental fruits of the bunch, even before picking as they require
consistent conditions and extra time to reach harvest, and most importantly, constant tending. Must be why they taste so good.
A good way to utilize these delicious things in their natural state is in a salad, of a mixed green variety or for something extra special, a classic Caprese like Yankee Pier's shown below.
Ingredients
4 slices heirloom tomatoes (I would prefer a variety with a balance of sweetness and acid)
4 slices fresh mozzarella
4 cherry tomatoes, sliced
handful of argula/rocket greens
3-5 basil leaves, depending on size
Balsamic Vinaigrette (shown below)
Adorn plate with greens as base. Dress heirlooms slices with vinaigrette, and stack ontop arugula, alternating mozzarella in between. Arrange cherry tomatoes around outside of plate and garnish with basil.
Balsamic Vinaigrette
Ingredients
1 C. red onion, small dice
1/2 C. fresh basil, chopped
1 T. garlic, chopped
2 T. dijion mustard
1/2 C. balsamic vinegar
1 1/2 C. extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
Add onion, basil, garlic and mustard in a medium bowl. Add balsamic vinegar to bowl and whisk together. Slowly add olive oil to mixture and blend, allowing to emulsify. Season with salt and pepper.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
Village California Bistro: SUMMER HEIRLOOMS
For me, one of the many joys of summer is the abundance of fresh, ripe fruits & vegetables. Amongst these, lye the ‘Heirloom' varieties, of which have become increasingly popular over the last decade. There is a large debate over what the true meaning of an ‘Heirloom' is. Most of the debate is over the age of the seed variety, 50 vs. 100 years or anything before the beginning of widespread hybrid use by growers and seed companies, which was roughly at the end of World War II. Others say it's determined by the action of passing one seed variety down through multiple generations but aside from needing to be open-pollinated all schools of thought basically have come to the same conclusion; They're Old!
Despite the history and glimpse at life, days long gone, for us these Heirloom varieties offer some of the best tasting, brilliant colored and various sized fruits and vegetables ever grown. Although the Heirloom Tomato is probably the most well know, other vegetables such as watermelon, corn, beans, eggplant, squash, lettuce, potatoes and beets are also highly desirable and just a few of my personal favorites! Over the years I've had the opportunity to try various heirloom varieties prepared in many different ways and have concluded that although they undoubtedly enhance the flavor and quality of any dish, simplicity is key. Since each vegetable packs such a punch of color and flavor, each different from the next, any dish in which the heirloom is the highlight will not only be pleasing to your pallet, but your eyes as well.
Not sure what to do with them? Take a look at one of my favorite summer recipes below!
Summer Heirloom Tomato Salad
Ingredients Needed:
- Sliced Heirloom Tomatoes (preferable in various colors, shapes & size's)
- Olive Oil (only if desired)
- Balsamic Vinegar
- Feta Cheese or Ricotta Salata
- Basil or Mint
Instructions:
First of all there are no quantities listed above because it's really up to your personal preference when it comes to certain ingredients. Plus this dish can be served individually or platter style as an appetizer, a great addition to any outdoor summer party! Secondly you might have noticed that there was no greens listed, that's right I didn't just ‘forget' them. The Heirlooms are have so many different levels of flavor and are so juicy that adding any sort of leafy green would almost be a crime. If you really long for something leafy though, for the platter style especially, laying a bed of Lamb's Lettuce (Butter Lettuce) down before building the rest of the dish would compliment nicely.
Once you decide how you're plating this salad, the rest is very easy. First lay your Heirlooms down in a visually pleasing manner such as placing alternating colors wheels in an overlapping manner in a row across the plate or in a circle. I have also done them stacked when serving individually and trying to impress. Next drizzle your Olive Oil and Balsamic in a zigzag motion over the track of heirlooms. Then crumble and sprinkle your feta or Ricotta Salata over the heirlooms in the same manner. Again both in quantities as so desired, I personally could go without any olive oil and a go heavy on the cheese. Lastly, finish off with a touch of chopped basil or mint, whichever you prefer. The combination of flavors from the succulent sweetness of the Heirlooms, acidity from the balsamic and saltiness of the cheese are exquisitely balanced and refreshing.
If there's a lot of negative space left on the plate or platter, sporadically drip a few drops of balsamic in that area and add a basil or mint florette for added visual appeal. That's it, Simple, Fresh & Guaranteed to Please!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
STYLE WATCH BY HMM: The Futures So Bright…
I must have huge sunglasses! I just spent three days in LA for a fashion photo-shoot event and then made my way to Rodeo Drive to "style watch" of course! I was with a few models and photographers for a photo-shoot and we couldn't help notice that everyone in LA was wearing ginormous sunglasses! We took a walk down Rodeo Drive and witnessed men, women, teens and celebrities (only saw two) - were all modeling huge, round, oversized sunglasses. No matter how ridiculous they look, I wanted a pair immediately! I shopped in many stores and enjoyed Rodeo's whimsical window displays and sunshine. However, to my dismay there are no bargains on Rodeo Drive and my Visa stayed cool. Other then huge and fabulous sunglasses--the two biggest summer looks are: The bohemian casual- (denim and flip flops) or the celebrity starlet- (jumpsuit and platforms). The hottest trend is "HOLES"-lots of ripped holes on faded or dark jeans, worn with studded tank tops. White handbags and huge circular sunglasses seem to be the VIP look of the summer.
I finally made it home to San Jose and couldn't wait to hit The Row for my continued search for ultra chic shades. All I could think of was how much I enjoy strolling Santana Row and its warm, clean and friendly ambiance. There are some fabulous similarities between Rodeo and The Row such as: beautiful window displays, hip stores, stylish trends on every corner, sunshine and plenty of gorgeous people! However, The Row has the best ‘stroll' appeal on the west coast; you can meet, eat, shop, drink, dance and sleep here. No need to go to Rodeo Drive where they charge for parking!
I made my way to OAKLEY, BEAU BIJOU, GUCCI, BURBERRY, TOD'S and H&M in search of my own celebrity shades. I found the perfect oversized, orange pair at Sunglass on The Row. I knew the moment I put them on -I was somebody with a bright future. I autographed the Visa receipt and smiled when I noticed my huge savings. I'm definitely celebrating my ridiculous new attitude this summer at Santana Row!
See you at The Row!
PHOTOS: FRANK ANZALONE MODELS: HMM
Traci Halvorson
HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Beauty Blogs
This month at Santana Row Farmers’ Market: Celebrate Summer with Veggies on the Grill!
Summer vegetables are at their peak right now. Bell peppers, eggplant, tomatoes, summer squash, corn and so much more. They're perfect for grilling because they're easy to prepare and their flavor is enhanced when they're grilled. You can cook summer vegetables directly on the grill or make "veggie packets" in aluminum foil and then place on the grill. All they need is a little salt and pepper and a bit of olive oil. You can also add some of the wonderful fresh herbs that are in abundance at the farmers' market right now. Fragrant basil, cilantro, rosemary, thyme, parsley, or chives, can all be chopped and tossed with your favorite veggies - and don't forget to add some fresh garlic! Here are some quick veggie grilling times to get you started on the road to the perfect grilled veggies, but check your own cookbook for more details:
Bell Peppers: Cook 8 to 10 minutes, turning once, until they begin to shrivel.
Corn on the Cob: Remove husks, wrap in foil. Grill for 20-30 minutes.
Eggplant: (1" thick slices) Grill for 8 minutes.
Mushrooms, whole: Grill 7-10 minutes.
New potatoes: Cut in half, pre-cook for 10 minutes, grill for 10-12 minutes.
Onions: Slice in half, grill for 3-5 minutes directly on the grill.
Zucchini or summer squash: Slice thick, grill for 5-6 minutes.
Don't forget to check out the weekly Farmers' Market at Santana Row every Sunday from 10am to 3pm at Piazza di Valencia (near Starbucks & Maggiano's)
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining, Events Blogs
Working & Playing at The Row
I like to think of myself as a super hero sometimes. It makes the days go by more efficiently, and it can be fun at times. For instance, when I work at Federal Realty, I am Bruce Wayne, presentable, witty, and ever so intelligent.
During my break between Federal and Eli, I like to enjoy the Row as much as possible. The Row is like my Bat Cave. Here I can rest, recuperate, and take time to analyze my issues at hand. One of my favorite places to do this is Vintage Wine Bar.
If you did not know, I attended a Wine Appreciation class at San Jose State under the supervision of Seth Orvis. The class opened me up to a new world of culture I had never known before, and now I am hooked.
While relaxing at Vintage Wine Bar (AKA My Bat Cave), I like to indulge myself in their happy hour, which runs Monday - Thursday, 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM. What is so great about this place is you can get one glass of wine from any of the 24 different bottles they have available at the bar and you are not restricted to one selection. You can get your second glass free, and choose whatever you like.
Tabatha and Mark are like my Alfred. Alfred is always there to help Batman, and get him through the difficult times. They are what draw me to Vintage. Their presence is friendly, energetic, and they always take care in providing the best service possible.
When do I become Batman? I become Batman when I work at Eli Thomas. That is my night job, and therefore I put on a different uniform. The people that I work with at Eli Thomas are always so much fun to be around, and I definitely have a different persona in the retail environment.
And there you have it. My superhero persona.
You see! Putting things into superhero perspectives can be fun! And it never makes for a dull moment! Give it a go and let me know!
See you next week!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining, Events Blogs
Champagne & shopping on Cielo?
Champagne & shopping on Cielo? Enjoy an evening out with the girls at Hotel Valencia's "Rosé on the Row" event on Wednesday, June 24 from 6pm to 8pm. Guests will enjoy various champagne tastings, appetizers, and a preview of women accessories from participating Santana Row stores. The event will be held on Cielo, the hotel's beautiful 7th floor wine terrace.
Want to get fit at the same time? Best Buy will be set up a special Wii-Fit station for guests to test the exciting work out games that the Wii has to offer! Stop by for a free demonstration and discover a new way to work this summer!
Entrance to the event is $20 per person. Space is limited, please call 408.423.5405 for reservations.
See you at Cielo!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining, Events Blogs
Avoiding the Pearl
Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love herself, sprang forth from the sea on an oyster shell, forever giving the oyster the reputation of enticing love and lust. And whether or not any truth lies in its reputed aphrodisiac powers, it is safe to say that people are, indeed, passionate about them.
There are precious few foods that command appreciation historically, culinarily and monetarily, as the oyster does. As a food that has been around since Triassic times, harvested and consumed since the days of Neolithic man, and cultivated for at least two thousand years, it is an amazing feat to still be able to capture the hearts of food lovers everywhere, in almost exactly the same way. Raw.
The Celts and Greeks served them in abundance as great feasts paired with wines. The Romans sent thousands of slaves to the shores of the English channel to gather them and paid for them by their weight in gold. But their status as a delicacy, although back to that in modern times, was not consistent. Early European settlers in America discovered a plethora along the coastlines and in the bays of the colonies, which quickly turned into an easily-harvested and tasty source of protein, thus becoming less expensive and a staple of the working class, technically street food. Between overfishing and demand rising, soon foreign varieties were introduced and some of these brought disease. Between this development and the pollution from the ongoing Industrial Revolution, oyster beds were wiped out and they became rarer than ever.
Just as with wine, the tastes and even consistencies of this treat can vary depending on their regions and techniques of growth. Tastes range, for the most part, from sweet to salty to briny, while their notes can range from seaweed, mineral, hints of melon, mushrooms or even butter. As a mollusk, the oyster constantly sieves water for its food and so the water and nutrients within flow over the meat, creating a direct relationship with its taste. The terroir (environment) and microclimates impart their individual mix of temperature, salinity and minerals to the point where even identical species not all that far away from each other can still feel and taste differently (colder water will result in firmer and saltier oysters with crisper flavors). Because of their location being so key, they are usually marketed and named by where they are harvested, even if their species is the same. For example, Fanny Bay and Denman Island oysters are both cultivated not far from each other on the east coast of Vancoever Island and though having similarity in meatiness and saltiness, Fanny Bays have the slightest bit of a cucumber finish, while Denman Islands' completely different microclimate produces a fruitier, watermelon aftertaste.
There are literally over a hundred variations of oyster, some being the pearl-producing kind (which, though contrary to popular belief, are not the kind you're supposed to eat), and true oysters, the edible varieties broadly classified into three groups; the Pacific, the most widely cultured in the world, a creamier, mineral-tasting type of oyster, especially good for beginners due to their mild tastes, with varieties such as the Hama Hama or Samish Bay; the Olympia, native to the Pacific coast and found primarily in Washington's sound, a very small, full-flavored oyster; and the Atlantic or Eastern oyster, found along the Eastern seaboard and Gulf of Mexico with varying degrees of salt, much more reminiscient of seawater, with popular varieties including Blue Point and Malpeque. An oyster previously believed to be of the Pacific variety, the Kumamoto, in recent years has now been recognized as its own species altogether; originally from Japan, and now cultivated on the West Coast primarily, is one of the most approachable oysters, sweet and small, probably the best choice altogether for an oyster newbie.
Though providing information on varieties and taste profiles can be helpful, much like with wine, you really have to experiment to learn what kind of an oyster lover you're going to be. Jonathan Swift once said, "He was a bold man that first ate an oyster." But thankfully, he did it.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
CALIFORNIA DREAMING…..
On such a winters day? Okay, more like fall...this weather is not the norm if you are a Californian! I've lived here all my life and just experienced the coldest graduation ceremony-ever! Thank goodness I had my scarf/wrap for all of us to share. Last year, at a friend's graduation the seats were so hot -no one could sit down!
My point is...this June weather is not extreme-just strange for this time of year. If there is one thing you need for this surreal weather it's the all purpose scarf. In my opinion, there are three types of Scarf's you must own.
#1- The fabulous French style- worn just around the neck-perfect for that upscale evening and office look or just tie to your purse!
#2- The full neck scarf--I have a ton of these! I just bought a tie-dye design at Urban Outfitters-they have many styles. You can also find scarf's at Chico's, Ted Baker and note: BCBG is having a 30% off sale through the weekend!
These scarfs are so handy; I keep one in my car at all times. In fact, it's not just trendy it's an essential for the cool summer evenings. I've discovered, The Row carries scarf's for everyone--in every design, color, pattern , size or texture. You can wrap around your neck two times or let it hang and blow in the summer wind...
#3- The wrap/scarf - a cozy, warm shoulder ‘toss around.' I scored a gorgeous black (almost cashmere) wrap at H&M under $20! I also purchased a wrap with sleeves -great idea and so cool because it works with many of my existing wardrobe pieces.
My mission is to find a wrap in coral, pink or blue-since these are the "colors of summer!" Once I buy this hot accessory, the heat will return but that's okay since we still need scarf's for some cool summer nights.
Until then, I'm in my new white jeans and tie die scarf! Hope to see you shopping at the row...scarf or no scarf--It's still the best place to be sans summer weather. We all know that summer is coming soon...better late then never!
Traci Halvorson
HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
You Could Save a Life…
Did you know that one out of every ten people entering a hospital will need a blood transfusion?
Did you know that 60% of the U.S. Populations is eligible to donate blood but only 5% actually do?
Did you know that every three seconds someone needs blood?
Did you know that in the U.S. approximately 32,000 pints of blood are used every day?
Are you part of the elite 5%? If not...schedule an appointment for the Club One at Santana Row blood drive on June 17th!!!
http://membersforlife.org/stanford/mobilesch/cities.php?city=San%20Jose
Follow the link and then click on Club One Fitness at Santana Row.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty Blogs
Summer Fun at Santana Row
You may not know this, but Santana Row is pet-friendly! There's a over 80 stores that allow pets in and many restaurants who accommodate pets on outside seating terraces. If you have a well behaved pet this could become an enjoyable activity for the both of you - shopping and dining on the row.
Personally, you can often find mom and me having lunch in Park Valencia or along The Row, usually if it's sunny I'm napping in the sun. We also enjoy just sitting in the lounge chairs near Pinkberry, enjoying frozen yogurt (I always get to lick the cup) and people and pet watching! As the weather gets warmer, it'll be nice to get outside! Also make sure to get a Kara's Cupcake while you're there, they helped support Furry Friends Rescue with a cupcake fundraiser recently - their frosting is absolutely delicious!
Check out their new Paws on the Row materials and look for the Paws Welcome Here decals on the windows!
For a list of pet-friendly stores, click here.
Share and Enjoy:
Read more: http://www.furryfriendsrescue.org/blog/2009/06/10/summer-fun-at-santana-row/#ixzz0I8qDVsAu&C
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Dining, Events Blogs
The Simple Things in Life
There are simple things in life that may be small, but they have a huge impact on your self-esteem. Having a high value of your own self worth is vital. Certain things affect your self-esteem, and it is important to sort through your life and choose to do things that make you feel good about yourself, rather than dwell on the negative aspects of life.
I am referring to instances that happen sporadically throughout life that can cause one to get down on themselves, and lower self-esteem. It is important to stay motivated and inspired by what makes you happy, and listen to your body, even when dealing with common problems everyone face.
Recently, I had my car taken into the body shop for repairs, and have felt an overwhelming need to start working out at the gym. These are not huge issues at all, but my mind had a way of telling me that I was not in a good place because I feel out of shape and my car is broken. However, what I have done to ease the anxiety is work on the problems head on, and realize that they are only temporary, not permanent.
I notice some people dwelling on aspects of life that cause them distraction, and their vision of reality is hazed over by doubt and fear. The key to living a meaningful, successful, and creative life is to open your mind and not let little things bother you when your overall picture of life should be much greater in comparison to the negative.
Example. My car is in the shop, but I get to drive a nice rental car. Score! I feel like I need to go to the gym, so guess what, I am going, and I went to the grocery store and bought food that will help me reach my goal. Perfect. Goals are so vital in life they should be required! My personal goals got me where I am today. If you do not have any, now is the time to make some.
Sometimes it is nice just to tell yourself that you are your own unique person, and that your life is not in shambles because you have one or two things going wrong. Instead, tell yourself that your problems are what make you a stronger person, and they will teach you life lessons that apply to future aspects of your life.
I have not posted a quote in my blog series so far, so I plan to start with this one: "Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." - Dr. Seuss
Have a productive day! See you next week!
Sean
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Events Blogs
Warm weather, where are you?
"Transitional" often refers to the clothes we wear between seasons. But here it is almost summer, and we're having to dress as if it's fall in Silicon Valley. While our climate is pretty moderate year-round, we still want to make a shift in our closets that reflect the true season. Still, it seems silly--and too chilly--to wear a backless maxi sundresses when evening temperatures have been hovering in the mid-50s. There are ways, though, to infuse the feel of summer into your wardrobe while we wait for warmer weather.
* Think in terms of pieces. A lightweight skirt might seem too bare paired with just a tank or tee, but try it with a fitted jean jacket for a sporty, hip silhouette. If you're going for a more conservative look, throw a summerweight sweater over
your shoulders.
* Wear bright accessories in pastels and citrus shades or neutrals. Switch your black handbag for a taupe one. It might be too cool for shorts, but you can still wear your orange sandals with jeans.
* Long, wrap-around-your-neck gypsy scarves in cotton and silk/linen/cotton blends go a long way in keeping you warm and adding a pop of color. Stash one in your bag: around here, a sizzle of a day can quickly turn into a nippy night.
* Neutral shades of sand, eggshell and khaki are heavily endorsed this summer and work perfectly as key staples. When it's cool outside, wear them with darker shades, like fuchsia. When it's hot, add white for a crisp, cool effect.
* Denim skirts have made a comeback. Choose a mini (not too short!) or a pencil skirt for the most versatility. Wear gladiators or flats with the mini; heels with the pencil skirt. For those who dare, the cage-style stilettos look most fashion-forward.
* The maxi dress, alas, should wait for balmy temps.
For more style news, go to www.mercurynews.com/style
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Apricots Abound!
Over four hundred growers produce apricots from orchards covering 21,000 acres in the San Joaquin Valley and northern California. About 95 percent of the apricots grown in the U.S. come from California.
Many different varieties grow in California, each with special characteristics. The most prevalent varieties are the Poppys, Pattersons, Blenheims, Tiltons, and Castlebrites.
Visit www.califapricot.com for more information on the different varieties. And visit the Information Booth at the market to pick up the brochure "Stone Fruit" and gather up some great apricot recipes.
Remember the Santana Row Farmers' Market is bustling every Sunday, rain or shine, near Park Valencia from 11am-3pm year-round. Come out and visit us!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Events Blogs
I Love My Job
I am a stylist here at Atelier and I have something to admit, I LOVE my job. Every morning I walk into Santana Row and despite any hardships or obstacles in my own life, coming into a job that I adore with the amazing girls I work with always puts a smile on my face. I recently graduated from the Atelier Prote'ge' program, a year-long advanced training course and I am confident and skilled, ready to bring beauty to all of our guests.
I am so blessed to work for, not only an inspirational company (AVEDA) but also an extremely inspirational boss. Karie Bennett, the owner of Atelier, works so hard for her business making it such a pleasant experience not only for her stylists and front desk associates but also for every guest that sets foot in our door. I hope all of you out there love what you do and have an opportunity to experience the wellness that goes on here at Atelier. Always feel free to stop in for some shopping, a hand treatment or even a consultation, it always warms my heart and I assure it will do the same for you.
Sincerely,
Amber Tobin
Atelier Intern Artist
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty Blogs
What’s a Knot?
As a therapist we hear that question a lot! This is a very basic description of what creates a knot...
When the muscle contracts, cells called proprioceptors tell the brain that the muscle is contracted. From here, the proprioceptors go on cruise control and continue to contract the muscle. The brain doesn't tell them to stop, and they usually stop on their own UNLESS our posture or imbalances cause our muscles to contract all the time. It's at this time they go on cruise control and keep the muscle contracted even if we want them to stop.
So how does massage help?
Massage Therapists work with the muscle to interrupt the communication between the proprioceptors and the brain. When the signal telling the brain that the muscle is contracting is interrupted, the proprioceptors turn off and the muscle relaxes.
If you want or need more information on this, just ask your therapist or post your question here...I try to keep an eye on the goings on here...
Thanks for reading!!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty Blogs
A Rose is a Rose… Unless It’s a Peach
When summer hits, there are few things that satisfy as much as a juicy bite into a crisp, sweet piece of fruit. It is all the more satisfying in the peak of its season. And as June shyly raises her head, the sweetest season for peaches begins.
The peach, also known as the Prunus Persica, actually originated in China approximately 4,000 years ago. Belonging to the same family as the rose, the first few generations of peach were far from the fist-sized, abundant fruit we call the peach today. More pit than fruit, fuzzy, small and tart, these little gems were associated with magic, luck and immortality in Chinese folklore and are regarded as a honored birthday gift even to this day.
Traders along the Silk Road brought versions of the primitive peach to Arabian gardens, and the crop spread far from its homeland into the Western world by route of India and Persia, where it thrived and was cultivated before entering Europe. On his second and third trips to the New World, Christopher Columbus brought the crop to New Augustine, Florida, where it grew and spread throughout the entire country.
The fruit became divided into clingstones and freestones, depending on whether the flesh stuck to the stone or not; both can have either white or yellow flesh. White fleshed peaches (only making up about 15% of the total peach crop in California) typically are firmer and very sweet with a small amount of acidity, while yellow-fleshed peaches typically have an acidic tang complemented by sweetness, though this can vary, with about 200 different varieties of peach worldwide today.
In North America, although regarded as the Peach State, Georgia actually trails both California and South Carolina in production of this fruit. California produces about 65% of the nation's annual crop (and nearly 100% of the clingstone varieties). For this reason, California peaches are arguably the best of the lot.
Eat fresh, eat local, always!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
5 Basic Rules for Pet Etiquette
Most pets always want to be with you and whenever possible, it can be great fun to bring your pet along, especially when it comes to shopping, outdoor dining, sitting at a cafe and walking around a park. This is also good for dogs especially as it helps socialize us to different environements, smells, people and pets. However, there are general rules of etiquette everyone should try to follow to ensure a safe and happy time to be had by all!
1) Be aware of where your pet is and what they are doing. Especially when shopping or pet friendly shopping areas or walking by outdoor restaurants, you don't want your dog urinating on someone's leg or merchandise! Also keep in mind, not everyone likes animals and some are afraid.
2) Keep your pet leashed or contained. In areas where there is a lot of foot traffic, use a non-retractable leash for better control and safety, cats also often like being in strollers for safety reasons.
3) Clean up after your pet. No one wants to step in dog poop or see it on the street. Help keep places clean and ensure they stay dog-friendly, pick up after your dog. Respect the hard work of gardeners and try to keep your pets out of planters and flower beds. Try to "empty"out your pet before heading into shopping or dining areas.
4) Ask before the Sniff! You never know how animals or people will react to each other, be polite and respectful. Just as people should ask before petting a strange dog or cat, one should ask if it's okay to let dogs greet each other.
5) Know when it's best to leave your pet at home. Some situations might be more stressful for your pet or they may not be ready for a loud and noisy area. Instead of being stressed with your pet, leave him or her at home, go have a good time and come back to a happy and rested pet.
Following these simple rules can help ensure that everyone, including you and your pet having an enjoyable outing!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Events Blogs
Hard Work = Time to Have Fun & De-Stress
Hello Everyone!
Last week was such an event-filled experience for me. I had a lot to do and so little time to do it! However, no matter how hard I work I always find time to have some fun and de-stress. The numerous restaurants and nightlife hotspots around Santana Row make working here even more fun because you get to have some quality time to hang out with your coworkers after your shift is up, and you get to know them on a more personal level.
When you work with someone, you tend to get into a pattern of saying hello and goodbye every morning and evening, and throwing around tasks here and there without even thinking of the way it may or may not affect one another. When you sit down after work, have some drinks, and just have some fun, you tend to personify with the ones you work with and realize there is a lot more to your work life than just work.
I feel like both of my jobs at Santana Row include me in a "Corporate Family", if you will. My coworkers from Eli Thomas and those from Federal Realty have connections with one another, and there are so many familiar faces and personalities to recognize and build professional relationships with.
One dear coworker recently left Federal Realty in order to travel the world and experience new destinations and gain new memories. Her name is Pat Henger, and she was our Legal Consultant here at Federal. She was always smiling, and had something quirky to say. She brightened every ones day in the office, and we are so proud to see her get out and experience everything she has planned in the coming year. Good luck Pat!
As for myself, I have realized that work is not just something you do, it is something you must learn to grow with and view as a functional way of creating a meaningful life. I for one can say I love my jobs, and I now realize why people are always striving for something they love to do, because it makes it that much better to get up in the morning, have your coffee, see some familiar faces, and do work that makes you feel good!
Have a productive week! See you next time!
Sean
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining Blogs
Summer Handbags from Furla!
Right now it's so hard to find quality handbags that are affordable and accessible. Summer colors like bright red, funky purple, and rich coffee are splashed all over the magazines, but where is the best place to find them? Furla!
The accessories brand not only handcrafts bags from beautiful Italian leather, they are so well-designed with pockets and zippers in all the right places. Also, many styles from the Spring Summer collection are now 30% - 50% off! If you like patent leather, check out the bright colors of the Magnolia bag. It was originally $565 and now its $395.50! Would you prefer a creamy chocolate leather shoulder bag? The Amaranto is now $322.50 from $645. Luxury and a great sale? Now that's a summer bag worth shopping for.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Pretty Things All at The Row
HMM STYLE WATCH:
Now my pretty---look no further then Santana Row to find the hottest looks for your Memorial weekend parties! Two must have styles: A JERSEY DRESS AND WHITE DENIM SHORTS OR JEANS! Here is where you can score the latest styles and trends at The Row. Shorts rule this season and they come in all colors of the rainbow. However, white is HOT and it's the summer scene stealer! If you are looking to stand out at any event or party--wear white to match that big smile you have from finding GREAT deals at The Row!
First stop: Check out The Blues JEAN BAR to find your perfect style and fit-they have the denim you need and flirty ruffle tops to match. You can also locate white shorts, jeans, or skirts at Ann Taylor Loft, Ted Baker, Diesel, Chico's and Tommy Bahama Women.
Got curves? Grab a Jersey dress-a clingy-cotton/blend, colorful dress that hugs and drapes (front or back) to your figure. Plenty of summer styles to select from at The Row. Jersey dresses are a sexier dress then last year bubble style-and much prettier! Almost every store at The Row carries their unique version of the Jersey dress. If you don't prefer the sexy shorter length-the next ‘go-to' style is the MAXI DRESS. I found many feminine styles and patterned options at Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Pink Stripes and H&M.
My day was also full of food: A perfect lunch at Pasta Pomodoro with Frank Anzalone, a contributing marketing photographer to Santana Row, then happy hour with a few models at Consuelo. One of our models claimed that Conseulo had the best salsa and margaritas ever and she was right-Yum! I also bought a pretty hostess gift at Z Gallerie-a sparkling pineapple sorbet candle. It smells so good; I'm tempted to keep it for myself!
If you don't have a BBQ to attend this weekend-party at THE ROW. It has everything you need for weekend fun: FOOD, DRINKS, ART, SHOPS, GIFTS, and plenty of STYLE!
Enjoy the holiday weekend-see you at The Row!
Photos from Frank Anzalone - MAY 2nd Fashion Show.
Traci Halvorson
HMM/Halvorson Model Mgmt.
www.HMMODELS.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Prom Season is in Full Swing at Santana Row
Prom season is in full swing at Santana Row. There were over 100 tuxedos rented from Eli Thomas last weekend, and the store was thriving with energy! Dressed up students were walking around the row for all to see, and they were! We received compliments on our tuxedos from customers in the store and were asked about the styles and combinations seen around the area.
Many of the guys renting tuxedos were attending their second prom this season, and informed me of their intent to attend additional proms as well! They are truly little party animals. Of course, I attended three proms in my high school years, so I know how addicting they are.
In other news, Memorial Day weekend is here! Santana Row is extending their weekend activities through Monday, so be sure to come lay out in Park Valencia and spend that well earned money on some hot dogs and Kara's Cupcakes! I know I am going to have a blast, so you should as well!
See you next week!
Sean
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion Blogs
When I was in High School
When I was in high school, getting lucky meant I didn't have to endure the terrible acne years. It wasn't until I hit my twenties that acne struck. My dermatologist will tell you I tried everything. Antibiotics, Sea Breeze, Clearasil, as well as the doctor's-office-only regimes. For years, I always had a blemish spot on my face. Then, thank goodness, Aveda came out with a line of skin care for acne-prone skin types, called Outer Peace. I used it faithfully till the acne cleared up and now have graduated to Aveda's skin care system for anti-aging. But nothing makes me feel better than looking at my skin and feeling confident about it.
I think that must be the hardest thing about being a teenager with acne. Not having the confidence to put their best face forward. They don't have to live with it. You'd do anything for your kids-you help them deal with their schoolwork-now help them with their "skinwork". Mention this online blog before May 31st and get $20 off an Outer Peace Acne Therapy facial at Atelier AVEDA Salon & Spa, and 10% off the Outer Peace home care system. Let them put their best face forward as they go into the next school year!
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty Blogs
A New Style Guide for Men
Most of my fashion focus is on women's clothing, accessories and beauty finds but men, too,
need attention.
While it may seem as if guys have it easier-- how difficult can it be to wear pants and a
shirt every day?--it's much more complicated than it looks.
A new book written by trend expert Tom Julian breaks it down so that the most diehard jeans
and T-shirt guy can feel confident when he has to dress up for a fancy event, job interview or
business meeting. In Silicon Valley, casual rules, but there are times when jackets and
formalwear are mandatory.
Tom's book, "Nordstrom Guide to Men's Style'' ($19.95, Chronicle Books) is out Friday, in
time to browse for a fashionable Father's Day present or give as a hint that dad needs a
wardrobe makeover. It was written in partnership with the department store and available at
the retailer but it is also sold in bookstores, including Borders.
I've known the author professionally for a couple of decades--he was the former fashion
director for the Men's Fashion Association and has been a frequent source for my consumer and
fashion stories. He's also the red carpet guy for Oscar.com and there were many an Academy
Award night that he helped me identify the labels the stars were wearing on their way into the
Shrine Auditorium in L.A.
The how-to tome is essentially a reference tool to help men identify the personal look they
want to achieve and then teaches them how to go about dressing the part: luxury, classic,
contemporary or trend. It also takes into account your body type.
It's an easy read and full of diagrams and helpful information that will make shopping less
daunting for the casual guy and informs the women who shop with and for them.
Even a fashion professional like me has trouble sometimes figuring out the difference
between a point collar and a spread collar or the proper way to wear a cummberbund. (It's
pleats open toward the face, as if ready to catch crumbs, the author says.) The information is
all in the book, along with photos. For those guys who don't dress up enough to remember how
to knot a tie or a make a bowtie, the directions are here, too, with diagrams.
I'm keeping my copy handy as a fashion dictionary for work and because I can now
authoratatively answer the questions I get from readers and friends.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Men's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
El Jardin: It’s like a Beach Side Mexican Resort
Welcome back to another week here at Santana Row! And one thing that is on my mind this morning is food! The best thing about working on The Row is all of the restaurants I get to choose to eat at between jobs, or at lunch!
Last week I tried El Jardin for the first time, and I was very impressed. Their quesadillas are amazing, and paired with their Jardin margarita you cannot go wrong! The atmosphere is light and refreshing, and very reminiscent of a beach side Mexican resort. I love dining outside when the weather is lovely, and El Jardin relaxed my senses and prepared me for the rest of my day working on The Row.
My server's name was Gino, and he has been working for the company that owns El Jardin, Consuelo's, and Thea for the past three years. He says he likes working at El Jardin because of the live entertainment at night, and the outdoor environment. But one thing that interested me was the fact that the employees from all three different restaurants tend to shift around where help is needed, and you could end up working at a different place on any given day. That is intense!
Do me a favor and visit Gino at El Jardin. You will not be disappointed!
It is going to be a very busy week for me at Eli Thomas with all of the prom tuxedos going out this weekend. You can be sure there will be a lot of new and exciting events and promotions to come since school is getting ready to unleash the young masses into their summer escapades. And be sure to check out the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation event this weekend on Saturday the 16th! There will be a walk around the property and tables set up by stores offering samples and services. It is for a good cause, and it should be lots of fun!
Talk to you next week!
Sean
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Men's Fashion, Dining Blogs
Arm Candy
Well last Sunday I was strolling down Santana Row (Well, it was more of a mad rush from store to store) purchasing as many things as I could hold. Its my little secret tradition to delicately glide into Footcandy and stare, mouth slightly agape, at the Manolos and Jimmy Choo's, knowing that not even in my wildest dreams could I convince my mother to pass over the American Express just for one "necessary" purchase. But even though I usually enter to worship the shoes, I found something else worth salivating over, a Valentino Handbag. 
Ever since I've seen it, I've been digging through the archives of Valentino shows, my most recent favorite was one of their Spring/Summer 09 collections, specifically the draped dresses, but back to the purse. It is a unique design, for now anyway. Each blue rose is an individually coiled length of taffeta, which makes it look more like a florist's bridal masterpiece rather than a designer purse. Available in blue and pink, I was completely torn between which to crave more. My quickly snapped picture, which had just been texted to three of my most fashionable friends, was greeted by the oohs, ahhs and ohmigods of Valentino envy. Sadly, at the rate my money disappears in other stores, my monthly allowance is going to have to go up a little before I can even consider saving up
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Women's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
It’s Wedding Season!
Jelena Milicevic & Vince Knoss savored a delectable food tasting experience at Hotel Valencia's Citrus restaurant, located on the 3rd floor. Hotel Valencia's wedding tastings allow couples to sample a few hors d'oeuvres, salads, and entrees from Citrus restaurant. "We loved the artichoke parcel pastry, mini brie en croute with pear chutney, and the delicious Maine lobster tail!" Their wedding reception will take place in October in the Courtyard followed by dancing in the Valencia Ballroom. They will offer their loved ones filet mignon and Maine lobster tail entrees for dinner. Best wishes to the bride & groom!
Come in and schedule a site tour for your future wedding today! For information, please call our Catering Department at 408.423.5436.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Dining, Events Blogs
What is Sports Massage?
Sports massage is a Western based style with roots in Swedish Massage. Sports Massage helps athletes prepare for optimal performance, recover after an event, and maximize training results. Sports massage can be beneficial to those with injuries, chronic pain, and/or restricted range of motion.
In essence there are four major types of sports massage;
- Pre-Event is classified as anywhere from 15 mins - 45 mins before an event and focused on the muscles that will be utilized.
- Post-Event is done within 1-2 hours after the event to balance the tissues.
- Restorative is performed during training. It allows harder training with a goal of reducing injury and shortening recovery time.
- Rehabilitative helps the body recovery from injury and imbalance returning the body to high performance.
Sports massage can be received in a spa setting and is generally used to recover from injuries and chronic issues.
Ultimately, let your therapist know what you want out of your session, and they will tailor the session to your needs...
Phil Okazaki
South Bay Regional Massage Director
Club One Fitness
3055 Olin Avenue Suite 3000
San Jose, CA 95128
408-985-5555
www.clubone.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty Blogs
What is Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage uses similar strokes to Swedish massage. While Swedish is a very surface oriented style; deep tissue aims for the deeper muscles and connective tissue, often referred to as fascia. Many of the techniques are similar to Swedish, however, the pressure will tend to be more intense and focused. Therapists specializing in Deep Tissue focus on releasing chronic muscle tension and knots.
While deep tissue shouldn't hurt, it will definitely be slight uncomfortable compared to a Swedish massage. As mentioned in a previous post; don't be afraid to tell your therapist if they are pressing too hard.
Many clients feel the deeper the pressure the faster the results. This is an unrealistic expectation. Releasing chronic knots and tension accumulated over a long period of time is best achieved when an integrated program including exercise, postural awareness, relaxation/meditation techniques, and a regular massage program are combined to achieve total body wellness.
Phil Okazaki
South Bay Regional Massage Director
Club One Fitness
3055 Olin Avenue Suite 3000
San Jose, CA 95128
408-985-5555
www.clubone.com
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Beauty Blogs
Classic Style of FROGSKINS
Limited Edition 4-Legged FROGSKINS Sunglasses
In 2009, we're taking the classic style of FROGSKINS a step further and introducing the Limited Edition 4-Legged FROGSKINS.
The Limited Edition 4-Legged FROGSKINS, starting at $120.00, come with an extra pair of stems in a coordinating color, giving you the opportunity to make one of the original classics that much more original.
Just like its two-legged sibling, each color combination of this coveted style is produced in limited quantities and the opportunity to own a rare retro classic is yours for a short period of time.
Back to Santana Row Blog Home View All Men's Fashion, Accessories Blogs
Produce Pick of the Month: Cherries!
SANTANA ROW FARMERS' MARKET EVERY SUNDAY, 11am-3pm
Luscious California sweet cherries have arrived! They will be at the market through late June - such a short time to enjoy their wonderful flavor and antioxidant benefits. Our producers offer many varieties, from the dark red Bing and Burlat to colorful red and yellow Rainiers.
California is home to over 600 cherry growers, farming over 26,000 acres from the Santa Clara Valley to the San Joaquin Valley. Most are grown on small farms of 10 to 40 acres. The weather has been good so there will be an abundance this year.
When selecting cherries, choose those that are heavy for their size and still have their stems attached. Avoid those that are small and hard because they have been picked before they were ripe.
Cherries should be stored, unwashed, in the coldest part of the refrigerator to help protect their texture and flavor. If you can't use all your cherries within five or six days, it is best to freeze them. Wash and drain them dry, place in a single layer on a flat tray and freeze. When frozen solid, transfer to freezer bags. They will last for up to a year.
RANIER CHERRY LAPIN CHERRY
© 2009 Santana Row All Right Reserved | www.federalrealty.com | Partnerships
3055 OLIN AVENUE SUITE 2100, SAN JOSE, CA 95128 | TEL 408.551.4611
Site designed by Coakley Heagerty