I’m not sure how your neighborhood was this weekend, but in Dallas we got some much needed cooler weather. All this talk of how to balance the end of summer cool air with remembering the heat will be there tomorrow got me thinking. I am always struggling to find the perfect outfit that performs its chic duty, while allowing me to transition at will when the weather takes a turn. I’ve teamed up with American Eagle Outfitters to talk about some of my favorite transitional outfits that fit the end of Summer to Fall move. These folks get it! After hearing more about their styled collections and innovative new clothing, I inquired more about what it takes the complete a look. “Styling a strong outfit is sometimes like constructing a building: you have to start from the bottom.” I couldn’t agree more.

One of my favorite trends of the moment is the jogger pant. American Eagle has these style must haves in just about every fabric, color and fit. I was instantly attracted to them based on the versatility they allow the person wearing them to basically perform a ‘convertible clothing’ swap at any moment. Pairing their olive toned cargo jogger with a fun print button down and a stylish boot can really prove my theory. I found the pants breathed easy as I ran errands or arrived at an event or dinner. There are so many pairings to be made with a good dressy jogger that can be perfect for the office or after hours happenings.

My new favorite way to wear this trend is a bit sporty and more casual. The heather gray fabric jogger I am sporting above is the classy way to stay comfy when roaming about town. With a relaxed fit, drawstring waist and cuffed bottom, this is where style and comfort come together. For cooler nights as we enter a new season, a signature graphic hoodie t-shirt is the perfect combination for these pants. Don’t think twice, this comfy combo is nice.

Fall transitions are a snap, even when the weather fluctuates. American Eagle makes winning combinations that let you own your style no matter the time of year.

Leaving the fate of your meal up to someone else isn’t always the easiest thing. Surprises around every corner, unknowing line ups of plated wonder coming every few minutes. At Uchi Dallas however, giving the reigns to talented Chef Du Cuisine Nilton “Junior” Borges, Jr is the best choice you can make. They call it the ‘Omakase Tasting Menu’ and what I experience when invited in to try it out courtesy of Uchi can only be described as “the greatest hits” of Uchi’s menu and beyond. We were treated to the chef’s tasting, a multi-course chef’s daily tasting menu that included some favorites and some seasonal dishes that came upon a delicious whim.

Small starters included wellfleet oysters with cilantro mignonette, famous ‘hama chili’ composed of baby yellowtail, ponzu and thai chili and an inventive Uchi salad with hydroponic baby romaine, edamame and jalapeno dipping sauce. Light and delightful, these first course small plates were so tasty. One of my favorites was the salad which the waitress recommended we eat like chips and salsa. In!

After a brief introduction by overall Uchi/Uchiko Executive Chef Tyson Cole, we began to enjoy the next plates. A Madai (Delicate and Sweet, from the Snapper family) nigiri was prepared and enjoyed by tasting the fish first to capture a citrusy lemon flavor, so basically magic. Local Comeback Creek Farm tomatoes were paired with plum, house umeboshi and a5 lardo oil. Finally we tasted ‘Sakana Mushi’, a steamed white fish parcel with tom yum broth, tomato and mushroom. Are you getting hungry yet? The mains are not to be missed.

A third and final trio of savory dishes arrived soon after. ‘Karaage’ was a delightful take on fried marinated chicken, sweet chili, fish sauce caramel and a seasonal pickle. This ain’t your mamas fried chicken, no mam, but it is delicious and super crispy. Following, ‘Akami Te’, a bigeye tuna, watermelon and fish sauce was subtle to the palate but strong on flavor. I could eat that all day! Finally the ‘Bacon Steakie’, a hearty dish of pork belly, radish, citrus and herbs was a sumptuously composed plate that screamed ‘where’s the bacon?!’.

After your meal, order dessert. I don’t know how Uchi is able to do it so well, but seeing as they have a personal pastry chef magic is created. My favorite? An explosion of yum better known as peanut butter semifreddo with apple-miso sorbet and raisins. I’m drooling as I type this because that dessert is so good!

Uchi Dallas is everything you want it to be. A sexy dining room with understated wood accents, kitchen talent that leaves your taste buds wanting to know how they do it and a support staff of individuals who keep the show running in tip-top shape. Put this one down for must-try, trust me.

There are many men’s clothing brands out there who claim to get it. They try to understand what it takes to make a man feel comfortable in his clothes, and fit the pieces so well that it’s as if the dressing process is a dream. I’ve come to appreciate those brands for being a part of the dapper mans wardrobe and daily routine.

​Founded in 2007, J.Hilburn is the world’s fastest-growing luxury men’s brand. Believingtruly custom menswear starts with a personal fitting, and the brand has a growing network of over 3,000 Personal Stylists who are trained and certified to help men create a more personalized wardrobe – from power suits to weekend denim and sweaters – that reflect their own style and character.

I was invited to explore their all-new fall 2015 collection and I couldn’t get enough! From custom shirt fitting to exploration of the brand, the unveiling had it all. The Fall 2015 Collection embraces the brand’s return to its heritage, excellent craftsmanship and personal style. Suits, shirts and trousers are all crafted of fabrics from the finest mills in the world, and are delivered to you at a value that is impossible for traditional retailers to match. The brand has increased their fashion offerings and continues to grow their styling program across the country. The company identified different guys to represent their everyday clothing choices. From Mr. Luxe to Mr. Classic and all iterations in between.

For a truly tailored look on life, J. Hilburn has you covered.

Admittedly, I am a food lover. Whether it’s going out, staying in or cooking with friends. If there’s one thing I hate, it’s grocery shopping. The art of perusing a store for the fresh, locally sourced produce I dream of is lost on me. Don’t be aghast to this notion, dear reader. We all have our faults and I’m asking you to still accept me through my loathing of the grocery store.

Luckily for lazy, food focused cooks and eaters like me there is a service that fits us perfectly. Artizone is an online food delivery service connecting customers in selected U.S. cities with local artisans through one website. Luckily when my stomach was rumbling (as it often does) earlier this month, I stumbled across their website. What I witnessed while checking out the page was a mecca for finding a curated collection of the very best artisans in my area. Grocers, local food business, small stores and more! The unique portal provides aggregated access to authentic, handcrafted food stuff from the finest purveyors who have carefully created high-quality products.

After becoming quickly enamored with the notion that I could have fresh groceries delivered to my front door on my time, I knew I needed to join the cult. I worked with the good, kindly folks over at Artizone to put together an incredible backyard bbq for a few of my closes friends and family. What you see above is the delicious, hard to say no to, incredible assortment of foods available on Artizone that assisted my soiree. That’s right, there was pimento cheese on crackers, tender beef brisket, broccoli salad, kale salad and wait for it … s’mores! All the ingredients arrived at my door the day of the event and I was so surprised to see all the local farms, purveyors and farmers involved in my order.

So, when you find yourself too tired or unwilling to drag yourself to the store, let the grocer come to you! Thanks Artizone!

That’s right ladies and gentlemen, when it comes to keeping all my events in one strict schedule that allows me to share with friends and know exactly what’s going on, I need a full fledged cal. Allcal creates calendars that you can share with co-workers, loved ones or members of your unique group. On the day of the event you’ll only see the most important information – where you’re going, when you need to arrive, and who will be there.

It doesn’t get much easier or streamlined than that. With my busy schedule filled with fashion, food and nightlife events around Dallas, Allcal gets how important it is to blend user friendly interfaces with sharing features.

Wanna see my favorite events coming up? Check out my public calendar here!

What are you waiting for?

1. Download the free app from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or register online through the Allcal Web App.

Without a doubt, Mexican food is one of my favorite cuisines. The rich sauces, tender tortilla wrapped delicacies and of course, the loaded libations. Introducing a new Mexican establishment in an already saturated Dallas market is not easy, but newly opened El Bolero in the Design District accepts the challenge.

El Bolero refers to the shoeshiners that are visible across the streets of Mexico and symbolizes our effort to seek to immerse Dallasites into an aspect of Mexican culture. The cousin of neighbors Oak and Pak Pao strives to be an authentic, regional Mexican concept that draws the inspiration for its food and beverage menu from the diverse regions of Mexico.  In both the beverage and food program, they use fresh, high quality ingredients to create delicious made from scratch dishes that are inspired by recipes found across Mexico.

On a blazing hot afternoon, I was invited in to see how Chef John Tesar is shaping up the new menu and adding new life to the Tex Mex style of cooking.

We began with a signature appetizer and cocktail. Perfect for warm afternoon or evening, the Blackberry Tequila Punch combines Avión Silver 100 Percent Agave, Blackberry, Jalapeno, Pineapple, Lime and Agave for a tangy and lively drink.  Accompanied by the Tartara de Atun, Tuna Tartar, Soy, Garlic, Onion, Avocado and Mango which tasted super fresh and delicate while mixing in asian influences to a traditional Mexican item.

The plates at El Bolero are big enough to share but this guy make sure to clean every bite! Entrees included a light take on the Traditional Enchilada Verdes filled with tender pulled chicken and topped with Tomatillo Salsa, Tomatoes, Shredded Lettuce, Asadero Cheese and Roasted Corn Relish. Another winner Al Pastor Taco con Grilled Pina (Shaved Pork, Cilantro, Onion, Salsa Picante) transported me to the long lines in Mexico City where these flavors originated.

A must have and signature dish of El Bolero, Fajitas de Langosta were a home run. Deliciously savory Lobster Tail with a Lemon Butter sauce, Pico De Gallo, Asadero Cheese, Rice, Black Bean Puree and served with fresh Corn Tortillas. This dish had me begging for more in all the right ways. Rich but just enough to satisfy my taste for something new and different than your normal Tex Mex fajitas. Get these! Debating a side dish? Get the Elotes with Grilled Corn Kernels, Chili Dust, Crema Fresca and Cotija Cheese.

This hidden portal to Little Mexico in the Design District is sure to be found out soon so make your stop in and remember, Mexican meals are comfort food in every way.

Ps. El Bolero serves Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner AND Brunch! No excuses!

Hot dogs, hamburgers, lemonade and fireworks. Usually that combination about sums up your July 4th holiday, but now its time to step up your game. Growing up, I looked forward to the BBQ, outdoor fun, pool time and parades around Dallas. Now with all the patriotism in full force, I’ve moved into the time in my life when the perfect American outfit is the end goal while partaking in all the aforementioned activities.

I am giving you two looks today, because ‘Merica. If you’re more about prepping it up while manning the grill or sipping on a nice cold beverage with you’re friends, I got you. If you dare to rock a more casual look at the lake or attempting to beat the heat/humidity on a hot day, look no further.

I am such a fan of pairing bright hues of the quintessential patriotic colors with simple additions. For instance, my first look above combines my new favorite distressed-dyed shorts from J.Crew and a slim tipped polo finished with tipped detailing at the collar and sleeves, so you’ll look just as cool as the guys from the Rat Pack—the only difference is you’ll have a cell phone. Keeping it cool in shorts but allowing your prep to come through a bit is what the holiday weekend means to me.

Needing a bit more formality to match the fourth of July debauchery? These washed chinos from Bonobos cue hints of fun but have you a bit more dressed up for your fourth! Throw on a slim-fit short sleeve button up and your be sure to enjoy a breezy, buttoned-up afternoon to evening look.

I dare you to show your patriotic side without the cheesy flip flops or tank top. While those are a safe choice for the weekend, it probably won’t net you a second look from Lady Liberty.

The alarm clock rings and suddenly your day begins. A rush of thoughts from ‘Shouldn’t have had those margaritas last night!” to “Time to feed the dog!” rush through your head. For me, nowadays the one thought that comes to mind early on in the day is “How can I commit to my health without worrying about obsessing over it?” It’s not been an easy one to answer all the time, I’ll be honest, but with the help of a few tips I’ve learned along the way it seems a lot more manageable.

In my everyday regime, I look for ways to squeeze in a run on one of Dallas’ several outdoor trails or stopping in to my favorite healthy food joint to grab a quick meal. Recently, some of my favorite places to make healthy choices both on my plate and in my fitness schedule have made leaps and bounds to make my healthy commitment easier.

For instance, my favorite indoor cycling session at Flywheel Sports is offering three express #FLYTuneUp challenges before you hit your next BBQ or pool party. From July 13th- 26th, they’ll be offering a Flywheel Tune-Up, FlyBarre Tune-Up and FlyPlus Tune-Up (wheel and barre). They partner with SELF magazine contributing editors Stephanie Clarke and Willow Jarosh of C&J Nutrition, to provide you with an exclusive 14-day meal plan and nutritional support! Essentially, you commit to being there for two weeks (for starters) and they make it easier to stay on track.

Another way I am committing to fit is through my meal choices. I recently discovered Blue Apron, a meal delivery service that provides you with all the ingredients that you need to make a delicious meal in exactly the right proportions. The service just started delivering to the DFW area! That’s right, they ship you fresh ingredients in exactly the right amounts and you get to learn new, healthy recipes that are sure to fit the bill for your health. I’ve been obsessed with everything they have sent so far from salmon burgers to chicken meatballs and even steak! Great for busy weeknight meals and to shake up your normal routine.

Two easy ways to win back your health and commit to fit.

Eats & Drinks

As you begin to think of gifts for good ol’ Dad, keep in mind a father as rare as yours deserves whiskey equally as unique. Go with a libation that’s sure to say “Thanks, Dad!” while he sips away the start of his day. The Old Fashioned or Whiskey Smash are great cocktails to whip up in honor of this monumental occasion with America’s native spirit.

Going out? Eureka! in Uptown is featuring a cocktail special for Father’s Day starting on Thursday, June 18 through Sunday, June 21. The “Go Ask Your Mother” Old Fashioned features Old Overholt Rye Whiskey, Corsair Triple Smoke, a house-made Stone Smoked Porter simple syrup, bitters, and orange ($12).

Chances are he’s hungry after a bout of beverages so do what I do and carb up. With tacos, that is.

Head to La Ventana, with  locations in both Addison and Dallas, tell them I sent you and order Dad a trio of loaded tacos he isn’t soon to forget. My favorites? Bistek, Carnitas and Pastor. Please and Gracias.

Another great joint to grab a bite with your old man, Table 13. This old-school style steakhouse is offering a $40 3-course meal for Father’s Day that includes an 18 oz Porterhouse and Surf & Turf. Deal of the day!

Every Dad loves a good grooming session, it’s a fact. The Boardroom is one of my favorite places to meet my grooming needs. Deck Dad out with a trifecta of services the salon is setting up for his special day. They include:

• The Benchmark ($55) — Boardroom’s signature service that includes a tailored cut, rejuvenating paraffin hand dip, energizing shampoo and conditioning, scalp and hand massage, pressure-point facial massage, steamed towel and more.
• Traditional Hot Lather Shave ($55) — Classic straight razor shave that includes pre-shave balm, followed with a steamed towel, facial massage and an aftershave treatment.
• Fountain of Youth ($45) — Coloring service that targets just the gray hairs for a very natural salt & pepper look. The process takes only 15 minutes!

And there you have it. Drinking, Dining and a grooming session. Just what every Dad wants!

I come to you bearing good news. It’s officially patio season and with that comes a fresh take on food that will keep you nourished through the heatwave of Summer. Savor, Klyde Warren Park’s main restaurant, is a modern gastropub located in the 5.2-acre deck park. Chef John Coleman has thoughtfully constructed a new menu for the warmest season of the year filled with a fresh bounty of delicious dishes to sample whether on the patio or safely cool inside.

I was invited in to sample the forthcoming food and I certainly found myself satisfied with the veteran chefs presentation. The Crispy Shrimp & Calamari “Fritto Misto” would pair perfectly with a glass of Rosé. The starter includes Baby Gulf Shrimp & Point Judith Calamari, Haricot Vert, Chili Glaze topped with Fresh Herbs. A great way to begin a plentiful plated journey through the Summer season. Need a salad starter? Go with the Compressed Watermelon with Burrata Cheese, Watercress, Balsamic Syrup. It was executed with perfection while not being overly dressed or sweet.

Next came a few main course samples. Pan Roasted Sea Scallops pay homage to Chef Coleman’s wifes southern routes by pairing them with Maque Choux, Pickled Rhubarb and a Bourbon Bacon Jam. Deliciously meaty and tender scallops were a great match for its other elements. A well prepared Blackened Gulf Red Snapper with Jalapeno Cheddar Grits, Lemon Butter and Arugula Salad was another winner. Light and fresh components met spice from the pepper and arugula. Lastly the simple Rotisserie Chicken atop Israeli Couscous, Baby Artichokes and Roasted Garlic Aioli was classically done with middle eastern influence.

I found myself extremely excited about many of the items we tasted and had trouble saving room for dessert this time. But never fear, when the swimsuits are put away and beaches aren’t a factor, the sweets shall rise again.