The Gilded Bellini's Guide to the Most Instagrammable Cafes in Orange County

We all love THAT MOMENT. What moment am I referring to? The one that perfectly captures the most instagrammable scenario. A lot of people do it for the sake of instagramming it, but as someone who just particularly appreciates aesthetically pleasing and pretty things, I am always looking for the next most exciting thing to photograph for a little personal keepsake.

There are a ton of cafes nowadays that boast beautiful decor designed for snapping photos, so I figured I’d narrow down to some of my favorites in Orange County. There’s actually so many here so it’s hard to narrow down to just a few! The coffee/tea/cafe culture is such a thing down in the OC so these are some of my favorites that are simply top notch and very “gilded approved”.

Coffee Dose

Come for the neon sign “Bad Habits,” the super fun “Anti-Bitch Serum” branding on the coffee cups and cookies and the insanely amazing Bliss Balls.

Hopper and Burr

They’ve got frozen lattes and a super minimalistic, straight to the point vibe. Perfect backdrop for taking some great coffee flay lays.

Neat Coffee

Housemade seasonally-inspired syrups give Neat Coffee the upper hand among a lot of other coffee shops. The decor is artsy and inspiring.

Kit Coffee

The iced vanilla latte is to die for and Kit’s inventive, beautiful and delectable selection of avocado toasts will cure just about anything from hunger pangs, to a good flat lay craving to hangovers.

Morning Lavender

A feminine cafe with white and floral accents from the walls to the menu. This spot was made for capturing moments in a very beautiful, bright and dainty way. Known for its amazing selection of teas!

Contra Coffee & Tea

Known for its specialty coffee and tea on tap!

Honor Coffee

Obsessed with their Masala Chai (Honor’s own blend of Indian spices - seriously, it’s life changing and you can smell its aroma from a mile away!) and their yummy iced matcha latte. The decor is accented with whites, golds, marbles and woods.

The Best Mother's Day Care Package | My Must-Haves From My Segment on CBS 5 Good Morning Arizona

I had such an incredible time on Good Morning Arizona chatting with the amazing Olivia Fierro about my top picks for all the amazing moms and mom figures we know and love this Mother’s Day! I wanted to link all of the products below for easy shopping. Be sure to watch the segment above for a closer look at all the products and for some good laughs on camera!

DEEP MOISTURE FIX HYDRATING WATER CREAM BY

CARE SKINCARE

The Deep Moisture Fix Hydrating Water Cream is a textured gel cream made with Vitamins C and E to protect and nourish the skin, and caffeine to firm and brighten. All mom has to do is apply at any time of the day for an instant hydration boost. It also can be used as a deep moisture mask as well. Her skin will instantly feel refreshed. What’s even better is that during the month of May, Care Skincare will give 100 percent of sales generated every Monday from the product to highlight and support Every Mother Counts, which is a non-profit organization dedicated making pregnancy and childbirth safe for every mother everywhere. 

SALT SOAK CONCENTRATE OF THE CBD ESSENTIALS LINE BY CANNAISSEUR BRANDS

The Salt Soak Concentrate is a therapeutic blend of immune-boosting, mineral-rich sea salts, combined with premium CBD and select terpenes. It was formulated to soothe sore muscles, reduce stress, and induce relaxation. All mom has to do is run the bath, pour in the salts and soak in the benefits!

LUXE SPA BOXES BY MALIE ORGANICS

These Luxe Spa Boxes are from Malie Organics, a Hawaiian luxury spa and beauty brand. All the products in this box embody the magnificence of Hawaii and its tropical flora. This gift is really going to make mom feel like she’s on vacation! Each box comes with beauty oil which can be used on the body and on hair, body cream, body gloss and luxe cream soap.

The Plumeria box: A soft, sensualfloral with a hint of spice that is reminiscent of a fresh frangipani lei. 

The Koke’e box: it consists of dewy floral scents and crisp greens to bring the mind to the breathtaking natural beauty of Hawaii’s mountainous terrains and lush rainforests. 

Rose Quartz Facial Roller by WTHN

The face roller has been an essential of Chinese skincare for centuries! The Rose Quartz Face Roller reduces puffiness and dark circles from fatigue and increases product absorption.

DREAM ON SUPPLEMENT BY WTHN

The Dream On Supplement’s formula is designed to help even the most wound-up people get some shuteye and wake up refreshed. It’s easy: take 1-3 tablets at bedtime with or without food.  A few key ingredients in Dream On that make this such a magical supplement  include organic ashwaghanda root which is an adaptogen for anxiety, sleep and stress, organic hops flower that calms and organic passionflower aerial tops which is a sleep aid. This will help Mom to relax and unwind, fall asleep, sleep deeper, stay asleep and feel rested.

Why The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel is Officially My New Favorite OC Staycation Spot

One thing I love more than vacationing? Staycationing. The reason being is that most of us on a daily basis focus on venturing off somewhere else without even really acknowledging that there are really unique, unparalleled experiences closer than you think.

I recently stayed at The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel in Huntington Beach and was absolutely blown away at not only how stunning the resort was, but at all of the impressive amenities, genuinely great hospitality and awesome things that the hotel had to offer in the heart of Huntington Beach! It’s a luxury hotel that effortlessly exudes that SoCal vibe we all cannot get enough of.

The resort is beach-luxe, as I’d like to describe it. The walls of the hotel are decked with surfboards, murals of banana palm leaves and the entire hotel radiates with natural sunlight. Not to mention I have a newfound obsession with Offshore 9, the latest addition to the exciting renovations that have taken place at the oceanfront resort. The Waterfront has seriously stolen my heart and is officially my new favorite OC staycation spot. Here’s why…

THE SUITE

I was so blown away when I first walked into my room - I had an oceanfront suite with a wrap around balcony! The views were to dieeeee for!!! I literally felt like I was on an island. The room was super spacious with such fun notes of the ultimate California cool vibe. From the crisp decor, colorful accents and nautical white shutters, it really makes you feel like you’re completely immersed in all the highlights of California in one space.

THE PERFECT PLACE FOR MEETINGS AND EVENTS

When walking around the hotel, I couldn’t believe how much there was on the property that is offered to guests. Not only can you stay there with friends and family, but it’s also a truly beautiful spot for meetings, events and even weddings! As someone who has a professional background in events, I absolutely loved this and immediately started envisioning all of the stunning events that could be had at the resort outside with the unparalleled view of the palm trees, sunset and the ocean. With such a large, yet intimate space it really makes for a one of a kind event location that would bring any vision come to life.

DRIFT SPA

The most relaxing experience that quite honestly “drifts” you away into a relaxing oasis. From the moment I stepped into Drift Spa, I was given a warm welcome and asked to pick out a special shell from the giant clam shell bowl that I was drawn to. I took a moment to meditate on it and set my intention for my journey at the spa - so cool! Once I was done and began my experience inside, I brought the shell with me along the way. I had the most amazing, relaxing facial.

Drift Spa’s revitalizing facials soothe and brighten tired skin, cleanse your pores, conquer fine lines, and nourishes your skin from the inside out. The spa uses marine-infused ingredients for a refreshing glow - love! To seal in the results, I spent some time in the Himalayan Sea Salt Sauna! This was a truly life changing experience. Himalayan salt has so many benefits and you really do feel lighter and more refreshed even after just one session. It was the perfect way to conclude the whole experience and set the tone for the rest of my stay. This is the first hotel I’ve been to that has a Himalayan Sea Salt Sauna (and the only one that I know of in the area) so definitely put this on your must-do list when you stay here.

OFFSHORE 9 ROOFTOP LOUNGE

Offshore 9 is located on the 9th floor atop the new Twin Dolphin Tower and boasts full panoramic views of the Orange County coastline paired with hand crafted cocktails and delicious bites. There is no doubt in my mind that this is going to be THE hotspot for the summer. The rooftop menu features coastal-inspired farm to table dishes including Seared Ahi Tuna, Seared Scallops, Cheese and Charcuterie Boards, the Offshore PB&J with Chipotle Strawberry Jelly, and more.

I fell in LOVE with the mouthwatering Duck Fat Roasted Almonds (the perfect app) and the Devil Went Down to Mexico cocktail: Serrano & basil-infused Blanco, Casamigos Mezcal, fruit rouges, lime, agave, black sea salt and tajin. I really loved how inventive everything was and how the selections were undeniably satisfying in the most delightful way.

Between the impeccably breathtaking view (at sunset it was just phenomenal), the yummy bites and my to-die-for cocktail, I was in absolute heaven. Offshore 9 really is the perfect spot to wind down and soak in the beautiful ambiance.

HENRY’S RESTAURANT

Introducing… Henry’s! The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel, finally unveils a new oceanfront fine-dining venue, Henry’s Restaurant, as the latest installment in the award-winning property’s mega-expansion. Opening soon! Henry’s Restaurant will offer a premier culinary adventure through locally-inspired farm to table creations by Chef de Cuisine Kenny Seliger. Situated steps from the sand, the new dining outlet will showcase innovative seasonal menus with a range of land and sea options, accompanied by an extensive California-centric wine selection. I was lucky enough to test out a few items from the new menu before the restaurants opening, and I can genuinely say I was so impressed. With every dish, you could just taste the creativity, passion and dedication in every mouthwatering bite.

Signature dishes will include Mussels on the Rocks with a Bok Choy Puree, Sustainable Kanpachi Bowl with Omega Blue Kanpachi Sashimi and House-made Kimchi, Burrata and Asparagus with Almond Pumpernickel Soil, New York Steak (PS - this is THE steak you need to try. It comes with 3 insanely delicious seasonings- my favorite being the Black Sea salt) or Mangalitsa Pork Chop with Fresh Wasabi Root and Black Sea Salt, and Testaroli Pasta with a Cream of Kale Sauce. End the meal with decadent desserts such as Milk Chocolate Mousse with a Caramel Filling or Pomegranate Mousse with Chocolate Crumble.

THE AREA

As if the resort isn’t incredible enough, it’s actually walking distance from the beach, the Huntington Beach Pier and Pacific City (the ultimate for waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment). There is truly nothing like the Orange County Coastline, and the resort has by far some of the best views of it I’ve ever seen. Just few moments of walking outside could land you 1,850 feet into the Pacific Ocean on the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, one of the longest recreational piers on the West Coast. Some other fun destinations in close proximity are the International Surfing Museum and the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. The options are endless!

The Waterfront Beach Resort is hands down a local gem with so many impressive aspects that culminate to one incomparable experience. The hotel offers so much more than just a place to stay, but a true escape into a SoCal utopia all in one place. The hotel incorporates the best elements of SoCal and makes it its own with luxury, beauty, California cool accents, fabulous hospitality and a true understanding of how to give its guests the ultimate stand-out SoCal stay.

Photo Credit: The Waterfront Beach Resort Hotel, a Hilton Hotel

My NYC Restaurant & Nightlife Guide 2019

It’s about time I did this!!! I constantly get asked about my recs for restaurants and nightlife in NYC. If you didn’t already know, I lived there for 5 years and now I am so happy that I’m lucky enough to go back frequently and still really be immersed in all the hotspots, the hidden gems, and just some of my all time favorite places since basically forever. I still get messages from friends, friends of friends and even people that I don’t know for recs, so it’s only right that I do this. I know I am definitely missing a million and one places, but this is a pretty decent start… it’s all the fundamentals you need for your next trip to the city!

RESTAURANTS

1803 – New Orleans-inspired spot, that I adore for brunch. The restaurant has the cutest pink and green tropical wallpaper. While you’re brunching, you’ll be just a few feet away from a live band singing all kinds of southern tunes so you really feel like you’re transported from NYC to the south. @1803nyc / 82 Reade St, New York, NY 10007

While We Were Young – So cute and instagrammable! Marble everything with pink, dainty accents. However, no reservations so whatever time you go get there early. @whilewewereyoungnyc / 183 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014

Jackson Hole Burgers – BEST BURGERS IN NYC! No I’m not kidding. There is NOTHING like a Jackson Hole Burger. Ask any local, or you can ask Jennifer Aniston, who used to work there back in the day. @jacksonholeburgersnyc / 521 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10016

Grotta Azzura – One of my favorites in Little Italy! Great chicken parm and is legit Italian. @grottaazzurrany / 177 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013 

Ferrara Bakery & Café - Iconic café in Little Italy! Get espresso, biscotti, rainbow cookies and pignoli cookies. All homemade. @ferrarabakery / 195 Grand St, New York, NY 10013

Sant Ambroeus – Great for breakfast. Super cute + Parisian. Their West Village location is adorable and in a very Sex and The City area. @santambroeus / 259 West 4th Street, New York, NY 10014

Artichoke Pizza – A must. Not your average pizza. Get the artichoke pizza. It’s super rich so definitely share but it’s necessary! @artichokepizza / 321 E 14th St, New York, NY 10003

Bagatelle – The ULTIMATE party brunch! A must if you have time. Saturdays are better but Sundays are good too. Make a reservation - the later the better. Between 1:30 and 2 pm is ideal but the party starts at 3. They close all the blinds and it becomes a club basically with people dancing on tables @bagatellenyc / 1 Little W 12th St, New York, NY 10014

Lil Frankie’s – Yummy Italian in the East Village.. Super intimate atomosphere, cozy, dark + cash only. Their pasta is bomb! @lilfrankies / 19 1st Avenue, New York, NY 10003

Sel Rrose - It’s that spot off Bowery with the big pink door! Such an cute little spot for French-inspired food/cocktails and sitting alfresco during the warmer weather, and inside it’s a rustic, flowery little hideaway. Obsessed. @selrrose / 1 Delancey St, New York, NY 10002

CATCH - I mean… need I say more? Classic for good seafood, a bustling crowd and an extremely fun club atmosphere on the roof. Celeb hotspot. Make reservations. They’re strict. / @catch 21 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014

Epistrophy – Moody, cozy spot in Nolita! Great for drinks and dinner or a date. @epistrophynyc / 200 Mott St, New York, NY 10012

Felice 83– One of my favorite Italian spots on the upper east side. Used to go to this location all the time when I lived uptown! Not too far from the Met. So fab and romantic for a date. @felicewinebar / 1593 1st Avenue, New York, NY 10028

Bluestone Lane– Bomb coffee and mouthwatering avocado toast, heavy on the avocado. There’s one near Bryant park which is convenient but there are multiple locations. @bluestonelane /  1114 6th Ave, New York, NY 10036

Mayahuel – Super intimate Mexican spot! Forever one of my favorites they have a really unique cocktail menu and great food. Always a good meal. Truly a hidden gem. @mayahuelny / 304 E 6th St, New York, NY 10003

Famous Ben’s Pizza– Also iconic, but for regular pizza! @famousbenspizzaofsoho / 177 Spring St, New York, NY 10012

NIGHTLIFE

Death & Company– BOMB cocktails. A true mixology bar/speakeasy. Super New York. @deathandcompany / 433 E 6th St, New York, NY 10009

TAO Downtown - The club is honestly so fun. Come for dinner first and then stay for the dancing and bottles with sparklers. It gets GOOD. @taodowntown / 369 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011

Paul’s Cocktail Lounge - Located at the Tribeca Grand Hotel. Late 20s crowd with all the music all us late 20s people know and love. All around good venue, but they could be tough at the door. 2 6th Ave, New York, NY 10013

Ophelia - Panoramic views of the east side! Rooftop lounge at the Beekman Tower. Strong, creative cocktails pair well with a view of the East River. @opheliany / 3 Mitchell Pl 26th floor, New York, NY 10017

Brass Monkey – Fun bar for a Friday or Saturday night but get there kind of early, like 10 pm to avoid a line. It’s 3 levels and is roomy which I always like. @brassmonkeynyc / 1304, 55 Little W 12th St, New York, NY 10014

Mr. Purple - Fun, bustling rooftop with a pool at Hotel Indigo. Great views. @mrpurplenyc / 180 Orchard St 15th floor, New York, NY 10002

The Tippler – Good for a Friday or Saturday night, it’s underground, underneath Chelsea Market. It can get a little post-college-y, but not going to lie it’s a good spot. Guaranteed to be popping whenever you go.  @thetippler / 425 W 15th St, New York, NY 10011 

Ladybird – Actually a vegan restaurant, but cute for drinks. Inventive cocktail menu. @ladybird_nyc / 111 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009

Jimmy at The James Hotel – Great drinks and breathtaking views of downtown. Elevated, refined, luxe vibe - you’re in the middle of it all. It’s honestly one of my favorite spots of all time. @jimmyatthejames / 27 Grand St, New York, NY 10013 

Dear Irving Gramercy – Fun for a weeknight drink. So cool because it’s a time-traveling theme! @deariving / 55 Irving Pl, New York, NY 10003

Goldbar - Iconic lounge. Come for the music and the gold skulls on the walls. It’s been there forever and it’s stuck around, which says a lot. @goldbarnewyork / 389 Broome St, New York, NY 10013

Employees Only - This was one of my first speakeasies I ever went to. Prohibition-style bar that’s dark and intimate. @employeesonlyny / 510 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014

Spring Lounge - Classic (but cool) dive bar. It’s a fave of John Mayer’s, just FYI. 48 Spring St, New York, NY 10012

Bounce Sporting Club– A fool-proof going-to-have-fun spot. Great for a Thursday night or happy hour. Also good for meeting people. Everyone’s in a party mood here. Locals won’t admit they secretly love it. @bouncesportingclub / 55 W 21st St, New York, NY 10010

Photo by: Kiera Wood

Edits by: Yrene Ramirez

Intoxicating Beauty: The Skincare Cocktails That I'm Seriously Obsessed With

Ever heard of skincare products that are not only clean, non-toxic, and cruelty free but are also formulated with wine, spirits, sake and craft brew? Well if you haven’t, you need to know about Intoxicating Beauty, a truly unique skincare line that is actually all of that!

I recently discovered it and was so intrigued - I am automatically drawn to things that resonate with The Gilded Bellini, and Intoxicating Beauty really could not be any more on point! If you thought that wine, spirits, sake and craft brew were only enjoyable to drink, you are pleasantly mistaken (and I was too!). They actually have healing qualities that when formulated together with Intoxicating Beauty ingredients, nourish and heal even the most sensitive skin while respecting the beauty of the environment. Intoxicating Beauty, created by beauty mixologist Tessa Norvell provides powerful skincare solutions for everyone, no matter their skin type.

The two products I’ve been obsessed with? Body Rinse on the Rocks and Salt Emollient Twist!

Body Rinse on the Rocks - Hand & body wash made of… VODKA!

I love cleansing with this and warm water, followed by a quick rinse of cold water to help close the pores. Just like a blast of cold water is good for your hair, it’s the same for your skin.

According to Intoxicating Beauty, “Vodka has been revered for centuries as a natural antiseptic and astringent. It is known for its purifying and beautifying properties. This refreshing, organic vodka-infused formula is enriched in aloe leaf juice and lime oil. It is loaded with hydration and oils to help leave your skin soft, conditioned, and supple after cleansing. It is infused with our intoxicating, signature Lime Vodka Tonic natural fragrance.” To my surprise, vodka is actually a natural antiseptic and astringent. It also helps to purify, balance and tone the skin while simultaneously controlling oil production. As someone who has always struggled with oily skin, this is seriously the coolest news to me. Guess if I’m ever low on toner, I can confidently use vodka as a back up option!

Salt Emollient Twist - An amazing face and body salt polish. I personally LOVE a great body polish. It really makes you feel like a new person once your skin gets that super smooth feel. This luxurious formula uses the power of organic vodka, a beautiful blend of nourishing oils, shea butter and ultra-fine salt crystals to delicately buff away dry, dead skin cells. This moisturizing polish will help promote skin renewal, overall skin hydration and will leave your skin with a healthy glow. Not only does this polish make my skin feel incredibly smooth, but it really leaves such a gorgeous, fresh scent behind on the skin that’s super relaxing. It makes me forget that it’s made of vodka!

I love that these products have an awesome story and concoction behind them, more importantly that they are truly good quality and have been such a treat to my skin. I can’t wait to try the rest of the line. Which Intoxicating Beauty products do you want to try??!

Photography by: Rebecca Gnasso