When a Fran Gets Engaged...First Down!

Well everyone, the first of the Frans is engaged to be married! This is what it looks like when you find out one of your best friends is engaged to an awesome man you almost love as much as your friend...almost.

We never need a reason to celebrate one another, but a proper engagement celebration was a must for Bryan and Hannah. We decided to throw the festivities at the very trendy Hudson Hotel. Located just south of Columbus Circle, the Hudson Hotel is a popular spot to grab a drink, watch a game and even go dancing. They have numerous distinct spots to stop for a drink and nibble throughout the hotel, each has a unique personality and ambiance.  Our evening began at Tequila Park - this outdoor Taqueria themed spot was packed with people. Just a warning, it is all self-serve, but you can reserve a table if you are a party of 6 or more. 

We settled into our table amongst the crowds and got right to the celebration with a pitcher of margaritas.  

We then moved onto guacamole (duh) and a variety of their tacos. We feasted on the Chipotle Lime Chicken, Pineapple Glazed Skirt Steak, Crispy Pork Carnitas and Mahi Mahi Taco of the Week. 

Finishing off the last of the margarita, I attempted to "smoothly" transition our party to the "surprise" part of the evening. We walked over to Henry Liquor Bar where about 30 of Bryan and Hannah's friends had gathered to celebrate their engagement. The couple was super surprised, just what I wanted!

Please notice the #photobomb.

I loved these people. Hannah and Bryan, I pray you feel SO loved and celebrated during this engagement season. Super excited for all that is to come! 

xoxo

Gig Shack & Channing Daughters - Montauk Part 2

Here comes Part 2 of my Montauk adventure. We went out to a proper sit down dinner once during our trip out east. We decided to visit 668 the GigShack upon Mer's suggestion. It did not disappoint, the food was delicious. 

The GigShack is located off Montauk Highway in the center of town. It has indoor and outdoor seating options and turns into a packed bar during the late night hours. The menu is full of fresh fish and rich meat options. 

Starving, we shared the Spicy Tuna Tartar Taquitos to start.

This is the Tossed Herbed Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken.

Here we have the Spicy Thai Mussels in a coconut milk, white wine sauce. Needless to say we all had a dip.

Sesame Seed Seared Tuna Steak.

My friends know how to eat! Housed Smoke Hawaiian Style Baby-Back Ribs.

I decided on the Slow Poached Shrimp Scampi. The Shrimp was cooked perfectly.

Fast-forward to The Fourth of July. It rained all day. Not just drizzle rain...downpour, sideways, torrential hurricane rain.

Because the pool and beach were not an option, we went with the next best thing as a back up plan...Wine Tasting.

Enter Channing Daughters Winery.

Located in Bridgehampton, it is my favorite winery out in the Hamptons. The wines are so unique and flavorful. Tastings are just $10 and you truly get an experience. If you visit when it is nice out you can bring a picnic and lounge out near the vineyards.

Needless to say we had a wonderful time and went home with a lot of wine. I even joined their Wine Club! I've been toying with idea with each visit but decdied to finally commit this time around. Every two months they ship two bottles of winemakers select wines to my apartemtn in NYC. This way I get to stay connect to my faovirte winery and taste their latest creations.

Can't wait to go back again. Happy Summer everyone!

xoxo