Morning at the Cloisters
The Certosa di Galuzzo is an enormous cloister dating from the 1300s located about three miles up into the hills above Florence. In other words, it is situated on one of those stereotypically picturesque Tuscan hillsides dotted with tall black Lombardy cypresses and...
Getting Shrek’d
A few weeks ago I saw the trailer for the new Shrek Forever After and found myself sucked in enough to grab a tub of popcorn and settle in for my very first Shrek. A Shrek virgin no more, after two hours of 3D antics starring the voice of Eddie Murphy (brilliant!) and...
Elixir of Love @ UCSC – June 3-6
Yes, the opera by Donizetti — sung by skilled young stars of the UCSC Opera program. I saw the dress rehearsal last night and was blown away by the gorgeous voices, polished stage direction (thanks to Brian Staufenbiel) and sheer charm of this Italian meringue of an...
More Late-breaking News
Over at Gabriella, owner Paul Cocking has already scored a new chef — Kynan Campisi— formerly of Michael Mina in San Francisco. "He's energetic, organized and intelligent," says Cocking of his latest chef. "All the things you want." Can't wait to sample the new...
Vintner’s Fest – June 12-13
21st Annual Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Association Vintners' Festival Think of it as a lively, scenic opportunity to taste rare premium wines from area wineries along with tasty finger foods from local chefs. The 21st annual event is spread over two weekends....
Inside the Flame
A book of sensory adventure: The rituals, passions and discoveries of an engaged life.