Living a tasteful life

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Tavern & Table

Last week I joined my two friends Ashley and Rachel at Tavern & Table for dinner and drinks. It's always nice to have girls' night and catch up with friends. I was excited to finally try the food for the first time. I've been before but only to enjoy cocktails and the gorgeous view on their deck. To be completely honest, I've heard mixed reviews about the place as far as the food is concerned. I am all for opinions and reading reviews, especially when I'm traveling. However, when it comes to local spots, I prefer to give them a chance at least once and see for myself.
 
I have to talk about the atmosphere of the restaurant first. The chic rustic décor inside gives off a charming vibe, complemented by the beautiful Shem Creek, depicting the epitome of a lowcountry view in Charleston.
 
 
Now to the food. I took into consideration some of the things I've been told that I just had to try before ordering. We decided to go with a few plates for the table to share. Let's just say I was not disappointed with anything we ate. Here is a little dinner break down, dish by dish.
 
 
One of my favorite things we ordered was the glazed fig and prosciutto flatbread. Hot out of the wood fired brick oven, this crispy crusted flatbread was topped with the perfect combination of sweet (from the figs) and salty (from the prosciutto). Fontina cheese, balsamic onions and wild arugula completed the package. It would have been nice to order a few of these to go.
 
 
If you're not a fan of Brussels sprouts, the smoked bacon and Parmesan cream will make you change your mind. These veggies may not have been figure-friendly, but they sure were worth every calorie.
 
 
For a little something on the lighter side, the chimichurri steak salad was a good option. It came with a little bit of everything, including couscous, sweet corn, sour cherries, toasted pumpkin seeds, oven roasted tomatoes, arugula and, wait for it...basil buttermilk dressing.
 

Last, but not least, we had to order the shishito peppers, one of the specials of the eveing. Normally I'm not a huge pepper fan because I can't handle the heat, but these peppers were perfectly charred with lots of flavor, and were not hot at all.
 
 
Oh, and I must mention another one other favorite we ordered, which was the "Burnt End" Mac+Cheese. I'm a little speechless, and photoless for that matter. It came out after the other dishes and I got so excited that I forgot to snap a pic to add to the library of many others I had already taken. Simply put, it was a bowl of cheesy goodness with a brisket bonus!
 
Since you can't take a bite out of these photos you will just have to go check the place out for yourself. I know I'm sure glad I did.
 

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Monday, April 27, 2015

Weekend Recap + Lord & Taylor Sale Picks

This past weekend was super productive around the Smith household. Hence the reason I have no pretty photos to share.  As I've mentioned before, I'm hosting a baby shower at my house for one of my dearest friends next weekend; needless to say we've been in major planning mode. Shopping, crafting and yard work were all on the agenda. However, the yard work was mostly the hubby and my sweet mom who came to help. I'm excited for next weekend!
 
When I finally had the opportunity to sit down and relax last night, I came across the Friends & Family sale at Lord & Taylor. They are offering 25% off almost everything online and in store now through April 28th. Unfortunately we don't have a store in South Carolina, so online shopping it is!  Below are a few pretties that caught my eye.
 
 
 


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Friday, April 24, 2015

News Feed Friday

 
Happy Friday and cheers to the weekend!
 
This photo was taken at Tavern & Table, a cute new restaurant on Shem Creek in Mt. Pleasant. Not only do they have a great view, but they also have delicious food. I had dinner there this week. Oh and by the way, I've entered the above photo in a current contest they have going on for the best Shem Creek sunset pictures. Feel free to vote for my photo here.
 
I came across this article 10 Common Mistakes That Every Cook Makes and I have to admit I'm guilty of a few of them.
 
You had me at avocado.....Crunchy, Creamy Avocado Fries!
 
If you live in or are visiting the Charleston area and looking for somewhere to dine outside and enjoy some this beautiful Spring weather take a look at The Hottest, New Outdoor Dining Spots in Charleston.
 
Who doesn't want great skin: 8 Foods That Improve Your Skin
 
In honor of Earth Day this past week, 27 Nature Vines That Will Immediately Calm You.
 
 
Currently loving these sunglasses, this skirt and these flats.
 
Have a great weekend!!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Simple Salad: Rotisserie Chicken & Sun Dried Tomatoes

Lately I've been on a salad kick for lunch. This is partially because bikini weather is here, and because I find it easier to throw together a salad rather than plan a meal the night before...and, well, I actually enjoy a good salad.
 
 
Today I'm sharing with you a super-simple yet satisfying salad. I typically have various salads such as this one after a weekend of gluttony, or when I know I will be having a not so healthy dinner.
 
What are some of your favorite salad recipes?
 
 
Salad with Rotisserie Chicken & Sun Dried Tomatoes
Ingredients
Spring mix
Rotisserie chicken (already prepared)
Sun dried tomatoes (I used the dried with Greek oregano, basil & garlic)
Tortilla Strips (I prefer Texas Toast Chipotle Cheddar)
Bolthouse Farms Classic Ranch Yogurt Dressing
Instructions
1.       Place desired amount of spring mix in a salad bowl.
2.       Shred the rotisserie chicken into bite size pieces and discard bones. Add a generous amount to the mix.
3.       Top with sun dried tomatoes and tortilla strips.
4.       Drizzle with dressing

 
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Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Closet Addition: Spring & Summer Skirts

I love a good skirt. It's one of those pieces that you can easily dress up or down. They can be worn to work paired with a blouse for a more a professional look, and later, paired with a crop top for a night out on the town. I've been drooling over some of the skirts I've seen on various websites and while browsing Instagram. While on my search for the next addition to my closet, I came across so many beautiful skirts, from mini and midi to skater and pencil. Since I can't purchase them all, I though the least I could do is share some of these beautiful and bright eye-catching patterns.
 
These skirts scream feminine and fun!
 
Which ones are your favorites?
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Monday, April 20, 2015

Weekend Recap: Edmund's Oast + Gardening 101


Happy Monday friends! Another weekend has come and gone. I was able to catch up with friends over dinner on Friday, as well as spend some quality time with my mom on Saturday and Sunday and I enjoyed every minute of it. Here's a little weekend synopsis through the camera lens.

 
Saturday my mom came in town and we kicked off her visit in a sea of flowers.
 
 
 
 Two things I should mentioned: 1. I know nothing about gardening, but I sure do love flowers. 2. I'm hosting a baby shower in two weeks and my pack yard needs some pretty blooms. This is where mom came to my rescue. She is great with gardening and I don't know what I would have done without her.
 
We worked up quite an appetite after all the flower shopping and headed to dinner. We went to one of my absolute favorite spots in Charleston, Edmund's Oast. (more from a previous visit here)
 
We started out with this bowl of deliciousness, compliments of the kitchen.
 

We may have gone a tad over board ordering. However, it was mom's first visit so it was necessary to sample some menu favorites like the fresh ricotta and the pickled shrimp. 

 
And the lamb meatballs....

 
Mom insisted on the little neck clams, I on the other hand went for the cast iron soft shell crab.
 
 
 Our eyes may have been bigger than our stomachs but nonetheless we enjoyed every dish. 
Side note, I recommend requesting the chef's table when dining there. It's the best seat in the house, with a front seat view of all the kitchen action.
 
Sunday morning the gardening began....began with me informing mom that I don't own any gardening tools. #fail We improvised...
 
 
Let's just say that I'm more comfortable in the kitchen than the yard. But as you can see from the photos below, the spoon worked just fine.
 

A second trip to the store for more flowers, a little rain shower and six hours later we were done.  Thank goodness for my mother! I'm working on recruiting her for round two for help with the actual garden.

 

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Friday, April 17, 2015

News Feed Friday


I'm currently researching vacation spots for the fall which is only making me want to jet set off to an island ASAP.  Until then, I  will patiently wait and live vicariously through our honeymoon photos from St. Lucia.
 
I don't know about you, but I can't wait to get my hands on one of these frappuccinos at the end of the month!!
 
What an inspiring dance performance by 8 year old Alissa Sizemore, just 9 months after her below knee amputation. #yougogirl
 
 
For all the "brides to be" out there: The Brides Guide to Bridesmaids
 
 I'm not so sure that I will ever be a fan of these.
 
 Seasons change and so does your makeup. Find some simple tips here on  How to Tweak Your Winter Foundation for Spring.
 
I'm all about cooking with Greek yogurt to save a few calories: 27 Greek Yogurt Recipes You Need to Make.  
 
Loving this two piece maxi dress and these earrings!
 
 
Have a great weekend!
 
 
 
 

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Wednesday, April 15, 2015

Candlefish Love

Back in December I had the pleasure of attending a candle making workshop along with a few other local bloggers at Candlefish. (read the full post here.) Lucky for us Charleston, SC residents, their flagship store is located right downtown. Don't live in Charleston? Don't worry! Candlefish has launched their new website so you can now shop from the comfort of your own home! Although I do recommend paying the shop a visit if you're in the area, it's beautiful inside.
 
And now for some more good news.....
 

Celebrate the launch of candlefish.com and enjoy a free travel tin candle from The Library at Candlefish with any online purchase using the code: OFFTHEHOOK
 
Here are a few of my favorites:
http://shop.candlefish.com/Candlefish-No-40-11oz
Candlefish No. 40
http://shop.candlefish.com/Candlefish-No-60-11oz
Candlefish No. 60

Rewined: Mimosa

http://shop.candlefish.com/Voyager
Mer Sea: Voyager
 
http://shop.candlefish.com/Rewined-Ros
Rewined: Rose


  
 
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Tuesday, April 14, 2015

The Perfect Nude Shoes


Shoes are my weakness!  I think it's a half blessing and half curse that I wear a size 5. Having small feet makes shoe shopping very difficult, yet for some reason I still love to shop for them.  I think it's the thrill of the chase. I always find myself in the shoe section first at every department store I go in, checking the bottoms of all the shoes on display and hoping I see the number 5. (The smallest shoe is usually on display.) And when I can't find what I'm looking for I ask an associate to search online, and if that doesn't work I ask to take a look at what other options there are in back (some stores allow me to do that.) So there is a method to my search and you better believe that when I do find shoes I love in my size, I wear them until the soles fall off.

With that being said, it's always a good idea to invest in a pair of shoes that can be worn with multiple outfits to a variety of functions.  Which is why you just can't go wrong with a classic nude shoe.  I have my three go to pairs: a ballet flat, a wedge and a closed pointed toe strappy shoe. I believe every woman should own at least one good pair of them. I've rounded up a few of my favorites with everything from high heels to flats at all different price points. So do yourself a favor and make some room in your closet for a nice little pair or two of nude shoes.
 
Side note, some of the shoes listed below are pictured in a different color, but they are available in nude.

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Monday, April 13, 2015

Weekend Recap: Good Eats

5 o'clock couldn't come soon enough last Friday. Whit and I had planned a very much needed night out, and by planned I mean we "planned" on going somewhere but didn't have any specifics. Side note, restaurant reservations are usually a good idea when trying to dine in Charleston, and making them a day or so in advance is an even better idea. Needless to say, we have been wanting to check out The Obstinate Daughter for a while now but we just can't seem to plan far enough ahead to get a reservation. So we decided to stick with a place we know and love. A little Italian hidden gem called Pane e Vino. This place has some amazing pasta and a super cute outdoor patio. If you live in Charleston and haven't checked it out yet, I highly recommend doing so.
 
 
There was a jazz band playing outside on the patio, but unfortunately there were no available tables. It's a great spot when the weather is nice out. The inside of the restaurant is small with a rustic Italian flare. The romantic dim lit dining area is cozy with a handful of tables and bottle after bottle of wine lining the wall at the bar in the back. 
 
I had the gnocchi all sorrentina, which consists of homemade potato dumplings in a Bolognese sauce with buffalo mozzarella. It may not have been the best dish to photograph but it sure did taste good.
 


Whit had one of the specials of the evening which was a slow roasted lamb pappardelle.
 
 
We had just enough room after dinner for a cocktail before we headed home.
 
https://instagram.com/p/1Ud0Krx-6z/?taken-by=apolishedpalate
 
We stopped in Union Provisions for a little nightcap. Random side note... Kenny Powers, the main character from the HBO series Eastbound & Down was there. However, we decided not to be "those people" and bother him for a picture. Apparently a new series he's in is being shot in Charleston. Moving along...
 
We had a pretty busy lineup on Saturday, but managed to do a little shopping for the house. We were on the search for some picture frames. Which by the way, we ended up finding some great ones at Michaels. I never really go in there unless is for something crafty, but there were actually some decorative items that caught my eye. FYI..there are some good sales going on right now. Everything we purchased was 50% off.
 
Sunday was supposed to be spent on the boat with friends, however the weather wasn't cooperating. We ended up spending our Sunday Funday at Taco Boy on Folly Beach.
 
https://instagram.com/p/1Y2B8Gx-6Q/?taken-by=apolishedpalate
 
I went with the chorizo nachos and a Dos Equis to wash it all down.
 
We were intrigued by the frozen yogurt shop across the street that had a sign that read "nutella frozen yogurt" so we headed there for a little dessert.
 
 
A sweet end to the weekend! 


 
 

 
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Friday, April 10, 2015

News Feed Friday


http://cereusart.com/weekend-musings-sunshine/
 
 
How cute are these whimsical little dessert plates!?
 
An interesting approach to a dining discount.
 
 
 30 different ways to celebrate National Grilled Cheese Day on Sunday.
 
Looking forward to getting my hands on some of these ice cream bars!!
 
My DVR is set to record this highly anticipated interview.
 
11 Trader Joe's Facts You Probably Don't Know...even more reasons I'm a fan of this place.
 
 
15 Movies to See This Spring, I'm particularly looking forward to #1, #5, and #10. 
 
I love this sentimental use of your wedding date.
 
 
 
Happy Friday!!
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Thursday, April 9, 2015

Shades of Spring: Pastel Nails

Shown here Essie: Splash of Grenadine

Spring is finally here and it's time to ditch the dark winter nail polish and opt for something fresh and new. What can I say, I am a sucker for new nail polish. Maybe it's because I typically do my nails myself versus go to the salon. Don't get me wrong, I love a good manicure but when you change your polish as often as I do, sometimes it's worth it to just do it yourself.
 
Many brands have introduced their new Spring collections with everything from bold brights to classic pastels and I'm loving the all. I have been particularly drawn to the pastels though. I've put together a list of some of my favorites below.
 
Pastels

 

                                                                        
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