Author Archives: Julie Petrarca

  • Fine Dining >> Tasty Tuesdays

    Modern Mexican Dining at Empellón Taquería

    Given my affection for tacos, when I saw that Empellón had been receiving high praises from just about every NYC publication for their take on the dish, I knew it was time for a visit. Boasting what are arguably some of the best in city, this taquería definitely puts the Mexican staple in high culinary regards. You’ll not only find the usual offering of steak, chicken, and fish, but lobster, scallop and even tongue tacos to name a few, and just as they are in no short supply of taco options, their salsa choices are nothing to laugh at. Their … (read more).

  • Music Mondays

    Spotlight On: Big Deal

    The latest band to pique my interest, Big Deal, is the UK guitar playing duo Kacey Underwood and Alice Costelloe. Bringing an edgy feel to folk music, Underwood’s deeper voice plays off of Costelloe’s angelic vocals, making for a sound that is modern, yet pleasantly familiar. After signing to Mute records, joining the ranks of many established indie artists, the band released their debut album Lights Out just last fall. Now, after more single and music video releases, including their take on the classic Jesus and Mary chain song Sometimes Always which came out just last week, they’ve begun generating … (read more).

  • Home Decor >> Interior Design

    Diane Von Furstenberg’s NYC Penthouse

    One of our favorite ladies of fashion, Diane von Furstenberg, not only showed her NYFW Fall 2012 collection earlier this week, but also had her fabulously furnished penthouse featured in the March issue of Architectural Digest. Acting as both a workspace and a home, her iconic style shines through in the form of bold colors, prints, and patterns. Floral accents coupled with this table’s tree pedestal and zebra print vintage chairs, give the space a natural feel, while the bold rug and Andy Warhol portrait add a punch of modernity. Her master bedroom is dramatic to say the least, and … (read more).

  • Home Decor >> Bath

    Introducing Parisian’s New Colors

    Parisian towels have arrived at CassaDecor and they have a new look for Spring 2012. These gorgeous matelassé towels are available in all new colors like cameo blue, dove, and pearl, but not to worry if you loved the original Parisian palette – all of the classics are still available! So if you aren’t already inspired by Parisian chic, take a look at our Parisian bath accessories – C’est Magnifique!

  • Music Mondays

    And the Grammys go to . . . Adele

    Despite the slightly somber note of the Grammys last night, due to the untimely death of pop sensation, Whitney Houston and the loss of the great Etta James just a few weeks prior, the show brought joy to some repeat winners including pop-soul singer Adele. After winning two Grammys back in 2009 for her single, “Chasing Pavements,” she once again garnered attention with the release of her sophomore album, 21. Upon its debut she was propelled into the spotlight as listeners were drawn to her heartfelt, candid lyrics and emotionally charged vocal range. Now, after snagging 5 Grammys last night … (read more).

  • Home Decor >> Bath

    CassaDecor’s Valentine’s Day Sale!

    CassaDecor is excited to announce our gift to you and your special someone, just in time for Valentine’s Day- if you buy one robe you’ll get one for 30% off! You can snuggle up in a variety of robes like the cozy hooded Contempo, soft Supima cotton, stylish Hotel Waffle Terry, and for those enjoying slightly warmer weather – the lightweight Kassanilo! Our sale ends on February 13th, so shop now to make sure you get your robes in time for the holiday!    

  • Home Decor >> Interior Design

    Valentine’s Day, Everyday!

    Valentine’s Day only happens once a year, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t be inspired by it in our everyday home decorating! We found some really cute prints on Etsy that are sure to help share the love even after February 14th. We also stumbled on this Jennifer Brouwer designed home on Coco+Kelley, and we love the Queen of Hearts vibe of the red, white, and black color scheme.   We had to include the playful dining room that she created as well. Even though we probably won’t be  decking our homes out in full pink anytime soon, the … (read more).

  • Home Decor >> Bath

    Pick of the Week: Garden Party

    We’ve gotten a little excited about florals lately, but who can blame us with Valentine’s Day almost here and spring just a month away? So, we focused on another floral motif for our pick of the week, but this time we’ve got something for the kids. We chose Garden Party since it’s been one of our favorite kids’ accessories collections for a while now. We love the bright colors and cheery flowers! This collection is not only cute, but the bath accessories are resin (much harder to break than other materials) and the shower curtain is cotton (easy to wash). … (read more).

  • Fine Dining >> Tasty Tuesdays

    The Chocolate Room

    Valentine’s Day is next week, and in our search for some of NYC’s best spots to celebrate the holiday, we ended up in Park Slope, Brooklyn to enjoy some delicious treats from The Chocolate Room. Famous for its Chocolate Layer Cake that’s been praised by Oprah, this spot is small, but if you get in before 7:00pm you’ll miss the after dinner rush. Ready for Valentine’s Day on a regular basis, each of their ‘signatures’ come with drink suggestions, and for the end of your chocolate meal you can choose from their variety of deliciously aromatic, flavorful teas and café … (read more).