Au Naturale State

From time to time, the wicked travel bug bites. When it does, like any good wanderlust filled individual, I seek out new places to see. When an opportunity came up recently to visit Arkansas, I had my reservations. I hadn’t heard much about the state prior to my visit and from what I had heard, I didn’t really see myself enjoying it. Boy was I wrong.

In full disclosure, I was in Arkansas to run a half-marathon (I know, crazy) but I wanted to see the ‘Natural State’ so badly I booked a stay in Bentonville and hit the road. The drive was about 6 hours and we went through many a playlist, road game and audiobook but alas we made it to our hub for the weekend. It was a beautiful drive and the road provides a scenic glance at every turn. We booked our stay at a boutique style hotel called 21c Hotels. They have 6 locations nationwide but Bentonville is the gem of their line.

So where do I recommend staying, playing and dining in the heart of the Ozarks? We enjoyed meals at The Hive at 21c Bentonville, Tavola Trattoria and Eleven at the Crystal Bridges museum. As far as activities? Don’t miss Walton Family Owned Crystal Bridges Museum, one of the many trails around town or a visit to Playfest happening this June! Of course, my recommendation on lodging begins and ends with the incredible 21C Bentonville that I gushed about earlier!

Its a magical city that you wouldn’t normally think of so I definitely encourage a visit!

Southern Staples

Opening the door for that special someone. Minding your manners. Knowing exactly when to say “Bless your heart”.

These are all things that we consider staples of modern society in the south. Another staple? Owning a lightweight button up and knowing how to perfectly pair it with a spring styled blazer for a classic look. Fear not dear reader, I’ve ventured to the depths of the south to bring a renaissance of sorts when it comes to pulling off the look mentioned above.

Enter Pax & Parker, the brainchild of founders Winston Parker Ley and Alari Ann Paxson. Based in Fort Worth, Texas, Pax & Parker is a collection-focused specialty store offering an elevated assortment of ready-to-wear and accessories for men and women. The store is designed to provide the ultimate shopping experience without all the noise and pretenses of a traditional big-box luxury retailer. Expertly curated, their designer labels represent the best in the industry while many are exclusive to Pax & Parker. Purposefully housed in a small-format space, they have the pleasure and capacity to personally connect with each customer to provide a truly gratifying experience. At Pax & Parker, they believe in quality textiles, classic designs, and modern silhouettes.

In working with this bright, young new store, I am bringing the styles and feel that the quintessential gent should strive to curate in his own personal wardrobe. Take for instance this light, off white blazer from Rodd & Gunn. Perfect for when the weather heats up or when the pressure is on during a business meeting or date and you need your jacket to breathe. When paired with this sharp, textured Billy Reid button down, it’s the perfect spring look to impress. I’ve chosen a more casual look with the jeans but a pair of chinos or even cords would work just fine.

Stay tuned for the next part of this series where we will be focusing more on playful prints…

Topgolf Gets the ‘First Timers Club’ Ball Rolling

This past week, I teed off the beginning of a very special and sporty relationship. Having not long ago discovered the golfing go to joint in Dallas, Topgolf, I found out what I was really made of on the green. If you aren’t familiar with Topgolf, you essentially hit golf balls containing computer microchips that track each shot’s accuracy and distance while awarding points for hitting targets on the outfield. At Topgolf, the flight path of the ball is not simulated – instead, you get to see exactly where every shot lands. Each venue offers an upscale and playful experience, featuring an impressive food and beverage menu, music, games, climate-controlled hitting bays, and hundreds of HDTVs.

Topgolf recently launched it’s ‘First Timers Club‘ program and I hosted an event courtesy of the brand to get some of my friends and fellow competitors acquainted with the fun! Topgolf created the First Timer’s Club to overcome some of the hurdles people encounter when considering their first time (at Topgolf, of course). Many people think Topgolf is only for golfers, let me be of shining example of how that is not always true. We began the evening with some delicious Topgolf beverages that loosened us up a bit and brought out our competitive spirits. We had to fuel up before teeing off so we chose some finger friendly foods to quiet our grumbling stomachs! After that, we were treated to a demo of how the game works by a team member and then it was time to get things going! There are tons of different games and difficulty levels to choose from so theres something for everyone!

Now, here is where things get really good! From now until October 31, 2015, Topgolf is inviting those who haven’t been to Topgolf before to join the #FirstTimersClub! By joining through FirstTimersClub.com, they’ll receive a free Lifetime Membership and $10 off Game Play. Yep, you can get in the game for free and experience all the amazing perks I shared with you above!

All you first timers, get to Topgolf and experience the fore! fun.

*Food, beverage and gameplay generously provided by Topgolf brand

Unleashing Your Inner Kid at Pinstack

We all have the urge to unleash the inner kid and blow off some steam during the week. Whether it’s putting on your favorite pair of pajamas and singing around the house, shoving a mouth full of candy into your chomper in a sitting or just having some downright fun times. Well, if the third option is your go to, I’ve got some exciting news for you. I recently went in to Pinstack, unique dining and entertainment destination, laced up my bowling shoes and ate all the snacks. The huge complex houses a 28-lane bowling alley as well as a two-level laser tag arena, a rock climbing wall and a high-ropes course suspended 20 feet above 100 of the newest video games and simulator technology. Do I have your attention?

I know what you’re thinking. You’ve been to all the bowling alleys that are smokey, draining and downright gross. My friends, I think you will have a change of mind when you visit Pinstack. Besides being super clean and friendly, Pinstack offers a modern, attractive and forward aesthetic with bold finishes, creating a one-of-a-kind experience. We bowled our way through the afternoon and even saved room for a couple of the menu highlights like the Honey Bee Pizza (Italian Sausage, Prosciutto and Honey), Wings and delish brisket sliders. Yeah, I guess you could said my inner kid is satisfied for a while but that won’t keep my from coming back again very soon.

Hotel ZaZa Announces New Location in Frisco

Well, I’ll be. Posh hotel chain Hotel ZaZa has announced it will be placing its next Dallas area location in Frisco at the brand new Wade Park Complex.

“Known for its contemporary design and upscale amenities, Hotel ZaZa will be among the highlights of Thomas Land & Development’s $1.6 billion upscale mixed-use development, taking shape at the Dallas North Tollway and Lebanon Road.

Thomas Land & Development will develop the new hotel, and it will be branded and managed by Hotel ZaZa and Z Resorts Management LLC. It is slated to open with the first phase of the development in the Fall of 2016.

The hotel also will have a 1,000-square-foot fitness center and a ZaSpa.

It will be the third Hotel ZaZa in Texas, joining locations in Uptown and Houston. Hotel ZaZa also recently broke ground on a location in downtown Austin and continues to “aggressively look for additional opportunities across the country,” the company said.

Stan Thomas, president and chief executive of Thomas Land & Development called Hotel ZaZa, “a leader in the competitive Dallas luxury hotel set,” offering a “one of a kind experience.”

Said Benji Homsey, president of brand development for Z Resorts: “The Frisco community is booming, and our resort-style hotel will meet the need by offering a unique experience, blending the best of business and leisure travel with the luxury and exclusivity of a boutique hotel unlike any other in the area.”

The new Hotel ZaZa will be positioned along the main street of Wade Park’s retail village, surrounded by 600,000 square-feet of high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment. The center also will feature 6 million square feet of office space, as well as apartments, condominiums, and single-family homes supported by “numerous luxury amenities and concierge services,” the company said.

Hotel ZaZa is the first of three hospitality venues slated for Wade Park. Plans also include a 350-room executive conference hotel along the Tollway, and an upscale limited-service hotel.

The development also is slated to include a 45,000 square-foot Whole Foods Market, iPic Theaters, and Pinstripes, which signed leases for the center earlier this year. The developer broke ground on Wade Park in early August.”

Frisco just got an early Christmas, and suddenly the suburbs are a bit more posh!

Gentlemen, Start Your Wish List: Gift Guide 2014

Now that the turkey is gone and the lights begin to glow, there’s one thing left to do. That’s right, it’s time to rev up those Montblanc ballpoints and start your holiday wish list. Through the years, we begin to evolve our holiday wants and wishes into things that seem more practical or realistic. I say this year we take a bit of that and combine it with a whole lot of ‘treat-yourself’ to form the perfect list. Being a Texas boy, I had to include some local favorites this year but fear not, there are plenty of things available by click-of-button method as well. Let’s not kid ourselves, I am an online shopper first and an crowded mall venturer last. Shall we?

I’ve shared the grooming magic of Niven Morgan with you on the blog several times so of course their ‘man made’ line is making it on my list this year. (Psst! Enter SAVE20 when checking out before December 1st to save 20% on your order)

I am absolutely in love with any knitwear that keeps my ears warm as the weather cools and this Save Khaki knit field cap from STAG Provisions provides just that.

When you travel as much as I do and you find yourself needing a new soundtrack with each trip, you’ve got to have powerful sound to go with it. These Panasonic headphones have kept me company on many a distant travel, plus their metallic finish goes with any outfit.

Now whether you’re a Texan by birth or trade, you know the affinity for tees and jeans. I recently stumbled upon Tumbleweed TexStyles and found that with a great name comes seriously comfortable shirts and accessories. “While we want our consumer to feel stylish, we also want them to be comfortable.” They offer quality shirts with comfort and style in mind; perfect for the true Texan at heart.

Through my travels, I have also been able to learn about some of the best restaurants. Recently some good friends of mine returned from Charleston and raved about a meal at Husk. Sean Brock is the mastermind behind some game-changing restaurants in the south, and as a true believer that every gentleman should have a selection of cook books in his library, I’ve included one on my list. Pick up a copy of his new book,Heritage, and get lost in recipes that include all the comfort food (think food to eat at home) and high-end restaurant food (fancier dishes when there’s more time to cook) for which he has become so well-known.’

It’s a rule in my household that no one is allowed to look pretty when unwrapping holiday gifts. The morning allows us time to spend together in our comfy clothes, enjoying each others company and prepping our stomachs for the second largest feast of the season. With that said, my favorite way to stay comfortable on that morning is to rock a pair of Bonobos‘ uber-snuggly sweatpants. We’re talking French Terry fabric that is plush and extra-soft. Solid choice for hitting the streets as well, which I love!

All about that case, bout that case. I am always dropping my phone and until recently, the folks at the genius bar knew my timeline for phones by date. I cannot get enough of this case from Spigen that holds all my cards and does it in slim fashion. For the tech-boy in your life, you can’t go wrong!

It may not be long, but my list is full of useful things that will only enhance things as we move into yet another year in dapper style. Happy shopping and make sure to spike the eggnog! (oops!)

Chicago Chic in the Windy City

As you may have noticed on Instagram, I spent this past weekend in the windy city. However, it was more of the sleet and snowy city for the majority of the weekend. This Texas boy almost didn’t know what to do with himself. Then I had a thought, if I just bounce from shop to shop on The Magnificent Mile and peek into some delicious restaurants I’ll be out of the cold weather. Perfect.

The city of Chicago was alive this weekend. If you’ve never been, I highly encourage spending 48-72 hours (or longer) hitting the pavement of this mid-western city that makes every visitor feel at home. With a flair for the bold personalities and even bolder cuisine (cue deep dish pizza and Chicago dogs), the city also has a softer side. As I perused the racks at Topshop, dined on a delicious midday lunch at RL and walked the streets of the city I never felt lost or out of my comfort zone. Chicago is the third most populous city in the United States, after New York City and Los Angeles. With 2.7 million residents, it is the most populous city in both the U.S. state of Illinois and the American Midwest. I love the people, the food and the fashion. Quite frankly, this southern boy is a mid-westerner at heart.

So take a peek at my pictures above as I documented my whirlwind trip to Chicago. Another dining recommendation? (because you know I had to) Go to PUMP Room and be enchanted by chic and deliciously hip ambiance with gourmet food and craft drinks. All outfits seen above are courtesy of TopMan at Topshop.

New Era for Hilton on The Hilltop

Lacoste Shirt / Bonobos Khakis

Over the weekend, Dallas celebrated the newest luxury hotel to hit ‘The Hilltop’. The Highland Dallas, formerly Hotel Palomar, was unveiled on Thursday, Oct. 30. In celebration of its Grand Opening, the hotel hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and champagne saber off by Celebrity Chef John Tesar. The first of its kind in Hilton Hotels new Curio Collection, The Highland is a chic escape for travelers and those who prefer to stay-cation.

The Highland is the first hotel in Hilton’s Curio Collection, a selection of one-of-a-kind properties that celebrate their individual personalities. For Dallas’ location, rustic southern touches can be seen around the property as well as Texas charm pieces like the cow photo in my king bed room. I found myself napping in the luxurious down pillow-top bed and reflecting at the amazing corner view that peered out over all of Dallas. As far as unique style goes, The Highland has it aplenty and with Knife and Exhale Spa to add to the experience the hotel is poised to raise the bar in Dallas.

The Highland Dallas

5300 E. Mockingbird Lane

Dallas, Texas 75206

Reservations: 844-442-8746

Weekend Warrior (October 3rd – October 5th)

Boots, brisk-ish weather and BBQ are the name of the game this weekend. Read up on how you can treat your senses to a 3-day getaway that’s sure to please!

Friday

Burgers & Burgundy

Sit back and relax as John Tesar leads a bevy of talented local chefs in a burger throw down. The burger tasting plates are paired with the Burgundy wine of their choosing. The best part of the whole occasion? It’s for an excellent cause. DIFFA Dallas, whose mission is to serve those affected by AIDS and HIV across North Texas, is the main benefactor. Sip, bite and carry on my friends.

Get Your Roar On!

I’ll admit it, I’ve got a soft spot for careless pop music that makes your feel good. Last night, I took in what can only be describe as a fantastic assault on all senses as Katy Perry brought her Prismatic Tour to Dallas for a two-night engagement. A mix of pyrotechnics, vocalizations and terrible cat puns made for an enjoyable evening for the masses. The songstress noted the stop was ‘sold out’ but I managed to find you a couple last minute tickets to impress the KP lover in your life.

Saturday

Where There’s Smoke

With wrecking balls removed from Downtown Dallas, folks are heading into the city center for an all star lineup of Texas’ best pitmasters, chefs and bands serving heapin’ helpings of ear candy and good grub. The BBQ tasting ticket includes BBQ tastings from 2–5pm. Step right up and they’ll hand you a basket of smoked goodness. VIP ticket holders can get the party started an hour early at 1pm, plus admission into the VIP area through out the concert. The bands hit the stage starting at 2:30 and continue until 10pm. BBQ vendors will be selling their smoked goodness after 5pm. Concert tickets are ONLY $22 and get you in the gate at 5pm.

Howdy, Folks

Have those pictures of fried goodness been wreaking havoc on your state of mind this week? Fret no more. The State Fair of Texas is the perfect Saturday staple with hundreds of daily shows, a nightly parade, evening dancing water and laser show, 15 interactive and educational kid’s activities, the largest new car auto show in the Southwest and daily concerts on the Chevy Main Stage. Speaking of, Kool & The Gang plays on Saturday for free! Yep!

Sunday

Soulful Brunching

What’s that? You feel like you’ve been a bit sinful over the weekend. I’ve got just the cure for those feelings. Start your fall season with GRAMMY®-Award winning star Kirk Franklin and House of Blues as part of its’ year-long 20th Anniversary Celebration to producing a dazzling transformation of Gospel Brunch, the club’s legendary dining and live music show. Unfamiliar with how Gospel Brunch goes down? Before and during the show treat yourself to an amazing all-you-can-eat buffet featuring breakfast favorites plus tender carving stations, southern specialties and mouth-watering desserts. Don’t miss the signature chicken and waffles! And if you’re in the mood you just might end up on stage waiving a napkin and dancing off some of that delicious cuisine! You’re welcome!

Summer Days Drifting Away

With Mother Nature turning a side eye to the last weekend of Summer, we’ve got a rainy weekend ahead. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t some amazing ways to “soak” in the last few moments of the season.

If the weather does in fact turn for the wetter this weekend, here’s my guide to staying cozy, calm and cool while dodging rain clouds.

Comfort Eats

Pop in to one of my favorite cafes at lunch, Toulouse, for a Crispy Soft Shell Crab Sandwich that’s sure to please with glass of bubbly bliss. Because when it rains, I pour.

Car services will be surging this weekend with the cloudy skies, so opt for an early dinner and post meal drink at the booming Trinity Groves district. The ‘drunken noodles’ are a house favorite at Chino Chinatown, then pop next door under the awning to newly opened Kate Weiser Chocolates.

Brunch is better in the rain and Meddlesome Moth in the Design District is serving up a  mean one! My go to choices here? Mother and Child Reunion (peppered grits topped with a fried chicken breast, two eggs, and jalapeño gravy) and East Texas Jelly Flight with Biscuits. Yum!

 

Toulouse

Meddlesome Moth

Meddlesome Moth

Chino Chinatown

Dry Inside

Even been a tourist in your own city? Rain filled weekends provide the perfect opportunity to do so.

Sure the forecast calls for grey skies, but ‘Til Midnight at the Nasher will be in full swing for arts lovers. Peruse the works of ‘Provocations: The Architecture and Design of Heatherwick Studio’ who has been called the “Leonardo da Vinci of our times.”

Book it over to the Granada Theater to watch native Texas Charlie Robison tear up the stage. Known for playing classic rock covers during his live shows, his set will make you forget about the dreary clouds outside.

Drip, drip, drop … shop! When all else fails, head to the mall. NorthPark Center holds a treasure trove of things to do when the weather turns. Just opened Pirch holds free demo cooking classes every day at 6:00pm and Ted Baker London is offering 20% off full priced product for the duration of the month with a valid student ID. Donate $10 to St. Luke Foundation, Help USA or Sundance and receive 20% off your purchase at Kenneth Cole.

See? You’ve already forgotten about the wicked weather change. Eat, play and be merry this ‘goodbye to summer’ weekend!