Robin Baron Design

I woke up this morning and realized that though it’s Wednesday, I’m still thinking about my anniversary dinner from Saturday night at Daniel in NYC.  It was truly one of my favorite dining experiences…and I’ve had quite a few!  This newly renovated restaurant was elegant and beautiful with a contemporary flair.  Instead of eating in the main dining room, we ate in the upstairs bar area which was a bit more private and romantic.  I always love eating in the areas that are a little bit different like at the bar or in a lounge.

I expected great food, but I didn’t expect an entire vegetarian menu (I mean, literally, a separate menu handed to you in addition to their regular menu) that had the same option for a full three, or seven, course tasting!  That’s impressive for an upscale, fine-dining establishment, something I certainly couldn’t find when I was really strictly veggie!

The best part was, of course, dessert (not pictured because I was too busy enjoying it!). They had an entire section, one half of the dessert menu, with chocolate options…and they didn’t even have to hire me to consult on that!  One of them was a variation of warm chocolate cake, my absolute favorite.  As if that wasn’t enough, though, there were two more dessert courses that followed as part of their “normal” dinner presentation.  Can you blame a chocoholic like me for loving this restaurant so much?

I can go on and on, but suffice it to say, if you ever have a special occasion…and I do mean special…this is the place to go!

Last night I went to see one of my favorite performers, Chris Isaak, at the newly renovated and refurbished Beacon Theater in New York City.  He was fabulous!  He really puts on a terrific show–very warm and entertaining.  He gives so much back to his audience.  He even walked into the crowd with his guitar, up to the balcony and all!

I could go on and on about him, but I want to tell you how beautiful the newly renovated Beacon Theater was.  It’s always been a great venue for music, smaller, and more intimate than large concert settings, but the sheer beauty that has been brought out by the new work is breathtaking!  The attention to detail brings out a luxurious feel of days gone by.  I can only think of a few theaters remaining today that have every detail right…from the decorative painting to the fabulous (and “correct”) light fixtures.  Beautifully designed venue and a great concert…who can ask for anything more???

photos via my blackberry!