Decadent Favorites with a Healthy Twist!

August 15, 2015  /  Kelly Rizzo

Everyone loves comfort foods.  Sometimes you want all the decadence of your favorite foods but the guilt that comes with it can be crippling.  What if you could have it all.  Your favorite satisfying foods, but with a healthy twist?!  Here you go!

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese with Arugula

Mac and Cheese is a comfort food staple. But it's usually loaded with so much heavy cream and cheese that it could take a month just to work off two bites!  While I was perusing Instagram recently I came across a pic of my friend Lauren Nolan, aka The Lakeshore Lady's, Cauliflower Mac and Cheese with Arugula.  The heavy cream is replaced with roasted cauliflower puree and it's outstanding.  You do NOT feel like you're eating a healthy substitution.  Get the whole recipe here! 

Who doesn't like to end a satiating dinner with something sweet?!  But as we know, most of our favorite dessert indulgences are "a moment on the lips...a lifetime on the hips"  But what if you could actually be eating your favorite desserts but also have it be healthy?! Mind blown, right?!

Muller Dessert Inspired Yogurts * are the best of both worlds. It comes in a dual sided container (we're all familiar with these).  One side has the little crumbles and crunchies we love, and the side has the fruity goodness or creamy part of the dessert incorporated into it.  I swear it's as if you are eating the actual desserts, and the fact that you get all the flavor for under 220 calories is outstanding.

Now I am VERY picky about yogurts. I used to be naive and think that any yogurt was automatically healthy for you.  Then I realized that most of the yogurts we eat have artificial flavorings or sweeteners (which are incredibly harmful).  Muller Dessert Inspired Yogurts have NO artificial flavorings, sweeteners, or high fructose corn syrup.  They’re a good source of calcium and protein and best yet, they’re made from cows not treated with hormones.  So now it’s ok to indulge in your favorite desserts and say adios to all the guilt that comes with it.  Also, you've gotta check out this hilarious video that The Girls With Glasses made to show you how Muller Dessert Inspired yogurts are a delicious lifesaver.  Click HERE to watch.  Here’s to our sweet-tooths! #yogurtwithbenefits






*The second half of this blog (yogurt portion) was sponsored by Muller Dessert Inspired Yogurts. 

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categories / cooking, food
tags / yogurt, healthy eating, dessert, cooking, recipes, mac and cheese

A Foodie and Nutritionist walk into a...Restaurant.

August 06, 2015  /  Kelly Rizzo

Last week I had the pleasure of dining with Nutritionist and Healthy Living Concierge, Ashley Pettit. I've respected her talent and career for a long time, and even though our lines of work are quite different...we knew there had to be some way we could synergize.  We decided to have a collabo lunch at both of our favorite spot, Beatrix.  Beatrix has amazing foodie finds, and all of their food is health oriented, fresh, organic, and delicious.  Win-Win!!  Read below for Ashley's insider take on our awesome meal together!

"Lunch dates…they are a pretty common thing, especially during the work-week when you may want to catch up with a girlfriend or colleague. However, so many of my clients always tell me that when they are trying to be healthy, they don’t eat out and abstain from hanging out with friends so they can keep on track.

Get this: there is absolutely NO reason to become anti-social when you are adopting healthy eating habits. If I can do it with my friend + ridiculously awesome food, music, + travel blogger; Ms. Kelly Rizzo (aka: Eat, Travel, Rock,) then you can eat out with just about whomever, wherever you want!

I love being able to dine with all sorts of people, anytime I want. It just takes some simple consideration and a determination to eat right while being a social butterfly! I managed to maintain my composure when Kelly ordered something that came with my biggest weakness: French fries (see below- doesn’t that fry look amazing?) And sometimes I have some fries, but this lunch was not my time to indulge. Yet, in the end, I did not miss them! Here is a glimpse into our meal + the main APL tips to eating out socially."  CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

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categories / dining
tags / ashley pettit, beatrix, chicago, nutrition, healthy food, fitness, personal trainer

A Thousand Horses at The Windy City Smokeout

August 03, 2015  /  Kelly Rizzo

I had recently had a fortunate opportunity to sit down with the next huge band in country music. A Thousand Horses is the antidote for all of the "sounds the same" pop country out there that is turning a lot of people away from the genre.  Imagine if the original Lynyrd Skynyrd were to come back to life and hop on stage in 2015, I feel it would resemble A Thousand Horses.  

Here is some of my interview from the Windy City Smokeout on July 10, 2015.  

Kelly: Okay they just had a kickass performance and now I get a chance to chat with them and I have a few questions for you guys, of course. Now I know a couple of you originally met in South Carolina correct?

Hobby: Yeah 

Kelly: And some are from Georgia, could you guys tell me how like the whole dynamic started and how you guys originally formed

Hobby: Yeah Bill and I grew up together in South Carolina, Graham is his cousin 

(Kelly: OK!) so I've known Graham as long as I've known Bill (Kelly: Family!) so family connection here. And when we formed the band in 2010 is where we met Zach.

Kelly: So that's when you joined

Zach: Yeah they moved to Nashville right out of high school actually all three of these guys, and they met me just wandering the streets of Atlanta.

Hobby: Yeah just asking for change, said his name was Zach Brown...

Zach: (Jokingly) Can I be in your band guys?

Hobby: Yep and he just hasn't left yet, we never even told him yes!

Kelly: So he's just still hanging around! So you guys are on one of my favorite labels of course. you signed to Big Machine Republic Nashville. and it is such a prestigious and well respected label, I mean what was it like when you got the call and they were like "hey we're going to sign you guys!"

Zach: That was beyond our wildest dreams, it was crazy, we initially set out to make the album ourselves. We scrounged together a few thousand bucks and we figure we could sell maybe 2,000 copies of this thing, we can pay for it. Then we can do that over the course of the year, So we brought it over to Republic...

Kelly: Ok so your first single Smoke went number one. that has to be such an incredible feeling, but when you guys found out it, were you like "holy shit our first single just went #1?!" tell me about it...

Hobby: I mean that is every artist's and songwriter' dream is to have a number 1. We've been dreaming about this since we started this band and every band we've been in. It was pretty incredible when we got the call, I'll never forget we were in Boston. we were playing with a bunch of buddies of ours and we got the call that it was going number one, so we all just threw a big party and celebrated. We are still pinching ourselves like holy crap we did it! we got a number one

Kelly: So surreal 

Hobby: its very surreal, its been awesome, we're pretty grateful for it, its been a long road and for what we are doing its been awesome.

Kelly: So your sound your style is so cool so unique, I mean I love the overall vibe, I want to talk about how you see yourselves as being different for other artists of country music. How would you describe your style and your sound and why do you stand out?

Zach: I think its hard to say, we've always tried to be true to ourselves and just be real and make the music that we like. you know do our thing. its hard to say exactly what makes us different. We are hoping that people come to our show and see something there. that's A Thousand Horses right there.

Kelly: It such a unique sound and it is different from anything else going on in Nashville right now. It's why a lot of people are drawn to it, its why I'm drawn to it. So you obviously have something very special going on but its nice to hear how the artist thinks his work sets him apart.

Graham: Yeah I mean we lean a little bit more to the rock side but we love the country part of it.

Hobby: We kind of do what we do. we are on the road all the time so that we can draw from music. from rock to country, RNB to Hip-hop to soul. we were raised around that stuff. so everything that we do musically I getting subconsciously more inspiration. But its just..

Kelly: Its A Thousand Horses. that's it end of story. 

Band: Yeah!


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categories / concerts, music
tags / A Thousand Horses, Big Machine Label, Nashville, Country Music, Lynyrd Skynyrd, windy city smokeout

Lollapalooza 101

July 29, 2015  /  Kelly Rizzo

Hey all!!  Lollapalooza is this weekend and if you're like me, and planning on rocking out in Grant Park for 3 days, you're gonna need some tips, tricks, and a survival guide.  Read below, and don't forget to share your favevtips and tricks with me!!

Getting Ready:

Make sure to look your best while protecting your assets.  I always use a tinted moisturizer with a bit of shimmer. (Full coverage foundation is TOO much for the heat.)  My fave is Laura Mercier Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20.  It gives you a great festival glow, a bit of coverage, and good protection so you can party in the sun!

 

Always wear some head gear.  What screams festival-goer more than some awesome cranium accessories?  PLUS, if it's windy, or the weather is inclement, it will keep your hair secure and out of your face.  Fedoras or wide brimmed hats are a NO-GO for the same reason, if it's windy you'll lose it... plus you'll annoy all the people standing behind you.  

Shoes.  For the love of God, NO heels people.  And no open toed shoes or sandals, especially flip-flops.  We all know that Lolla can get muddy, and if you're wearing flip flops they will constantly get sucked off your feet.  And your feet will look like you've been on Survivor if you wear sandals of any type.  Wear comfy boots or comfy gym shoes.  PERIOD.  Converse or combat/cowboy boots are not only going to keep you feet happy, but you'll stay clean, protected, and look stylish too.  

Bags:  Do not bring any type of bag you have to carry.  Belt bags or Cross body bags are life savers for festivals.  You want your arms free for jumping, dancing, and carrying multiple beers for you and your friends.  Belt bags are not only functional, but these Gabby Fringe bags from 84 Rockwell SCREAM festival.  My favorite cross body bag right now is my new Coach Rhyder cross body in pebble leather.  

84 Rockwell Gabby Fringe

Coach Rhyder Cross body

DURING LOLLAPALOOZA:

Lolla Cashless- Did you know you can link your Lolla wristband to your debit card/credit card?  You can pay for all of your food, booze, and merchandise just with a tap of your band. Brilliant! To activate, click here.  

Phone chargers-  The only thing worse than having no cell service while at Lolla, is having a dead phone.  Keep that from happening with these handy little portable chargers that can fit in any pocket or purse.  Urban Outfitters 

Got lost??: Download the app Glympse. Glympse is a fast, free, and simple way to share your location in real time with the people you trust. So this way you can find the friends you were with if you get lost, or find the friends you're supposed to meet up with easily.  

GETTING HOME and POST LOLLA:

Surge Protector:  Uber is ALWAYS the way to go, but sometimes the surge pricing, especially after a huge festival or event, can be astronomical.  Surge Protector finds locations close to you with lower surge pricing, and helps call an Uber close to those spots.  Genius! 

Walk!!!  Always my choice.... thankfully I live close.  But walking home from Grant Park is usually a great way to wind down after the craziness AND get in a bit of exercise after a day filled with food and a ton of drinks.  

Hydrate:  Drink a ton of water throughout the day as well as benefit from drinks like Ginger tea and coconut water to help combat hangovers and keep you ready to rock for the next day!!

 

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categories / concerts, fashion, music
tags / lollapalooza, festival fashion, music festival, grant park, chicago, surge protector, uber, 84 rockwell, coach, cross body bag, coconut water

Travel Like A Pro

July 23, 2015  /  Kelly Rizzo

So, yeah... I travel a lot... Eat Travel Rock after all!  So it wouldn't be very courteous of me if I didn't share some of my favorite travel tips and apps.  Let's get to it...

Before Travel:

TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry:  This is a game changer, folks.  If you haven't joined TSA Pre-check yet, it's a must; especially if you travel more than a couple times per year.  I procrastinated a long while on this and finally my boyfriend, who got so tired of me not being able to go in the Pre-check line with him, thus being a gentleman and waiting in the cattle call line with me every time...made me sign up.  It's easy.  You go to your nearest State Dept building... in Chicago it's right in the loop (70 W. Madison).  You answer a few questions, fill out an app, and pay $85.  Then you wait 4-6 weeks for approval.  Then traveling becomes a breeze!!  Short lines, you don't have to remove shoes and jackets, or take anything out of your bags.  Start the process here: 

Booking.com or Booking Now apps-  These are the greatest sites to book in advance, or last minute hotels.  Great rating system, great deals, and great pics.  

 

Expert Flyer:  Did you get assigned a shitty seat on the plane?  Fret not my flying friend. This app will let you know when/if the seat you want becomes available.  A must if you're super tall or broad or just human and HATE middle seats.  

 

Seat Guru:  I LOVE this app.  It tells me all about the seat that I have chosen.  It'll let me know the size, the amenities, even whether or not it reclines.  For instance, on my upcoming flight to Italy, this (below) is my purchased seat and it gives me SO much more info that i'd ever be able to obtain on the airline's website.  

 

During Travel:

Gate Guru:  I use this is app CONSTANTLY.  Since I'm always looking for the best food an airport has to offer as well as for other amenities, Gate Guru is a lifesaver.  Based on terminal, it will let you know what restaurants, shops, and restrooms are in your immediate vicinity.  

 

Google Translate: Being multi-lingual has enriched my life.  I haven't traveled to many countries where I haven't spoken the language (I speak Italian, Spanish, and a bit of English)... but there are many countries I want to travel to where I don't speak the language, of course. Even with Spanish and Italian... I'm conversational, not fluent, so I need refreshers constantly.  Good translating apps are hard to come by, but Google's is the best i've seen.  Give it a whirl, ci vediamo and hasta luego! 



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Austin: City...Limitless

July 20, 2015  /  Kelly Rizzo

The excitement I felt when I found out my spontaneous travel destination was Austin, was palpable.  It's as if Time Out New York Magazine and Booking.com knew that Austin, Texas was my spirit animal.  If you know my brand, Eat Travel Rock, at all; you're aware that I love to combine food and music...and of course travel, in any situation.  Well this was the ultimate trifecta.  Good times were about to be had...by one.  

I have traveled solo many times...for quick work trips.  I have never traveled on a solo vacation before, and I must say... I was pumped.  No one other that myself dictating when and where to go, what to see, what to eat.  The decision making began the evening before my flight when I actually found out that Austin was my destination.  I immediately went on the Booking Now app on my iPhone and began to search.  The ease and functionality was superior to ANY travel app I'd ever used.  Since Booking Now is for travel less than 48 hrs out,  I was a bit worried that desirable accommodations might not be readily available.  Incorrect.  The most luxurious hotels in town, as well as unique and boutique hotels were easy to find...and more importantly, affordable.  Many of the hotels even had discounts that were just for Booking.com and Booking Now customers.  I booked a gorgeous room at the JW Mariott in a matter of a minute and I was all set.  Ready to wing it in Austin!

My view of the Colorado River from my JW Mariott room

When I arrived in Austin, and after I got settled into my glorious city center accommodations with a stunning view of the Colorado River... I got my game face on.  Fortunately, Time Out New York Magazine and Booking.com wanted me to explore the musical culture of the Live Music Capital of the World.  This was going to be fun, to say the least.  My first challenge was to "bear hug the unknown", and seek out a local record shop...one that is hidden or known only to locals.  I decided to walk down South Congress, or as the locals call it, SoCo.  I didn't let the 100 degree heat sway me from my mission.  I found a tiny little spot called Friends of Sound, and believe me, it was hidden.  First, I ventured off the main drag and down a little side street.  The sign said "entrance in alley"  So I walked down the alley...then around an old brick building... then around another corner. Finally, tucked away, was a vintage vinyl shop that was so perfectly and authentically Austin.  I shopped a bit and of course picked up some old school Country tunes like pre-outlaw Waylon Jennings and the Best of Johnny Cash.  I then cozied up to the manager to see if he had any great recs for where to see some live music.  Not just any live music, mind you... but my next challenge was to "scare myself silly"  and find a local gig that was well outside my musical comfort zone.  Well he and a fellow shopper gave me some great tips for where to find some great live shows that evening... shows that were not necessarily Eat Travel Rock friendly.  

Friend of Sound Records

Later, I ventured out for my first ever solo "night out on the town".  It was great.  Amidst the hustle and bustle of buzzing 6th street in downtown Austin, I hardly felt alone.  The vibe was electric, and music was pouring out of every doorway and corridor. I was headed toward the Red Eyed Fly and it reached me before I reached it.  The music was LOUD... and joyfully angry sounding.  I asked the door guy to fill me in and he said the Death Metal show on the outside patio was $10.  SOLD!! Now, I'm usually very non-discriminating when it comes to Rock music.  I love it all.  But death metal has always been an enigma to me.  How can you even understand what they're saying with all that grunting and barking into the mic??? Plus it just seemed...scary! Well, I let go of all that and head banged with the best of them...with a Lone Star beer in hand.  The crowd seemed friendly and no one seemed to mind that I only had 15 tattoos instead of 50.  After a while, even though the music was starting to make my head hurt, I could see why people gravitated toward the overall vibe.  Death Metal will not likely be filling my iPod soon, but it was sure fun for 30 minutes.  

Death Metal band at Red Eyed Fly

Next up, I wanted to venture even farther from 6th Street, and "abandon my compass".  I needed to find a Rock bar that was in a part of town unknown to me.  I found this tiny little run down club called Beer Land.  It was definitely off the beaten path and looked right up my alley (no pun intended).  They had a surfer-esque garage band on stage and they were totally my taste.  A cross between the Ventures and Green Day.  As I cozied up to my 2nd tall-boy of Lone Star, I sat back and realized how fortunate I was to be experiencing something so magical.  Not even 24 hrs before, I didn't even know I'd be in Austin.  Now here I am, sippin' on a cold one, and soaking up one of the coolest musical scenes on the planet.  Bless your heart Rock N' Roll.  

Surfer-rock band at Beer Land

My final challenge was to find an iconic spot in town where a part of musical history occurred.  After some research, it became clear where I needed to visit.  Arlyn Studios is a place where music history has been made; over and over again.  This recording studio is not only the home studio of Willie Nelson, but many of my all-time favorites have recorded here: Waylon Jennings, Sublime, Neil Young, Snoop Dogg, Gary Clark Jr., Phish, and Merle Haggard, just to name a few.  Their history is rich, but even more impressive is what the music is made with/on.  Arlyn Studios possesses one of the few Neve recording consoles in existence.  If you saw Dave Grohl's documentary, Sound City, you would know the level of prestige and mystique this conveys.  Not only do they have a Neve console, but it is a Neve/API hybrid and the only one like it in the world.  As the gracious owner of Arlyn, Lisa Fletcher, explained to me..."It's like the Bentley and Rolls Royce of sound boards coming together."  I was lucky enough to have Lisa give me an after hours tour of the entire studio.  I couldn't get over the musical history that was in my presence.  She even let me "play" with the Neve console.  To touch the boards where some of the most significant albums in music history were made, was surreal. I could actually feel the pulse of all the sounds that have been flowing through that studio for decades.  It was an experience that will last a lifetime.  

Me getting to touch history at Arlyn Studios

After all of my musical challenges were completed... it was time to EAT!! You didn't think I'd forget the food, did you?!  Here is a run down of some of my favorite Austin meals. Many of these recommendations came from locals as well as  Time Out Magazine Austin.  Lonesome Dove Western Bistro was first.  Wow.  Chef Tim Love's latest adventure in on point.  The menu is eclectic and represented by almost every animal species on earth... from duck to rattlesnake.  The food was outstanding, and since I was solo, they let me do a tasting of several of the dishes.  I would definitely say the best piece of fried catfish I'd ever had.  The staff was overly accommodating and friendly.  It was my happy place.  

Foie Gras Ice Cream Lollipop at Lonesome Dove 

Next up was to satisfy my taco craving.  You can't go to Texas without filling up on this Tex-mex staple.  Torchy's Tacos was ALL i'd been hearing about and it was a must.  I took an Uber to this little trailer park lot and there was Torchy's. A cute little food trailer in a dusty parking lot surrounded by red picnic tables.  I actually had a fried avocado taco...my life will NEVER be the same.  It was taco heaven...in a trailer park.  

Finally, I had my last meal at Odd Duck.  I could not hear enough about this James Beard Award nominated hot spot.  I also heard their brunch was spectacular, so that's what I went with.  Everything they serve is locally sourced and sustainable.  If you don't believe me, in the most serendipitous fashion, they sat me at the bar right next to Farmer Chris, who is actually the chicken farmer from whom they directly source their eggs.  My egg education is now on a loftier level... and the dishes I enjoyed at Odd Duck were next level.  It was one of those authentic experiences that can't be described, only felt.  I knew I was in a special place, away from the tourists and the hustle, where I could feel the true sense of this remarkable city.  My last bite and breath of Southern Texas before heading back to Chicago.  

Needless to say, traveling solo may be my new favorite thing.  Not only was I able to learn so much more about Austin, its music, and its culture, but I was able to learn more about myself.  My sense of adventure is alive and well, and people and places (and music) that once seemed foreign or intimidating, are now welcomed and appreciated.  I'm so grateful for this quick journey, and even though i'm back in Chicago, in my comfort zone...Austin is already calling me back. 

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categories / dining, concerts, entertainment, music, restaurants, travel
tags / austin, texas, time out, booking.com, live music, lonesome dove, odd duck, vinyl, records, mariott, jw mariott, travel, travel blogger, vacation, solo travel, waylon jenning, willie nelson, sublime, gary clark jr.

Austin's Underground Music Scene

July 18, 2015  /  Kelly Rizzo

I'm thrilled to get back to my music roots.  For so long, I feel I've only been writing about, and posting about food... which of course, I love.  Yet music is my truest and oldest passion.  Time Out New York Magazine and Booking.com must know this, because they wanted my Austin adventures to be centered around this fine city's musical culture.  

Since Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World, I was given some interesting challenges to fulfill.  One was to "Scare Myself Silly", and in this case, to find some live music that is very out of my comfort zone.  My comfort zone of music is basically ANYTHING 90's as well as Country, Alternative, and Classic Rock.  So when I walked past the Red Eyed Fly and heard the sweet sound of a drummer losing his mind on his kit... I knew I had to check it out.  I asked the door guy what the deal was and he said, "Well the heavy punk show on the inside is free and the "metal" show outside is a $10 cover."  I quickly responded..."I want both!!" So I paid the $10, walked in and grabbed a can of Lone Star beer. (My drink of choice the entire weekend)  Now, let me explain.  There's a lot of "metal-ish music" I don't mind.  I like Disturbed, old school Soundgarden, Filter, maybe even some Pantera.  But this was full on growling Death Metal with all the band members' long hair whipping around in circles in perfect unison.  Everyone in the small crowd was also head banging... which of course I love to do too, especially during the "rock-out" part in Bohemian Rhapsody (cue Wayne and Garth).  The music was not exactly my cup of tea (especially since the lead singer was only growling and grunting into the mic), but it was a BLAST.  Stepping out of my comfort zone is usually rewarding, and this was no exception.  

Death Metal and head banging at the Red Eyed Fly

I then was told I needed to "abandon my compass" and find a rock bar in a part of town I'm unfamiliar with.  Well that's pretty much all of Austin since this is only my second visit.  Yet I knew for this challenge, I wanted to get away from the tourist droves on 6th Street and venture off the beaten path.  I was walking up and down some darker streets and came across a little dive bar called Beer Land that was dark, old, and grimy, just how I like 'em.  I heard the familiar sounds of actual rock music... not too heavy, not too soft... it was the Goldilocks of rock.  I paid the cover to hear what the door guy called "garage rock".   After listening for a few minutes, with another Lone Star in hand of course, I would categorize it as Acid Surfer Garage Rock.  Some punk influence with heavy surfer guitar riffs.  Think The Ventures meets Green Day.  It was great, and I was in my happy place.  I think abandoning my compass will be my new thing, as that's how you discover life's most interesting finds.  

Surfer rock at Beer Land

Stay tuned for my next adventure that I'll post about tomorrow!!  



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categories / music, travel
tags / austin, music, heavy metal, death metal, pantera, disturbed, 6th street, green day, dive bar, texas, keep austin weird, time out, booking.com

A Traveler's Dream Come True

July 17, 2015  /  Kelly Rizzo

Traveling is my lifeblood.  It makes my world go 'round and 'round.  Sometimes the only thing sweeter than travel is...spontaneous travel.  Sometimes packing your bag on a whim and not even knowing where your journey will take you, is the most exciting adventure of all.

 I was fortunate enough to be chosen by Time Out New York Magazine and Booking.com to be one of their travel bloggers who will Wing It and jet out the door on a moment's notice to a destination that was unknown until about 12 hours before my departure.  All I had to arm myself with was my Booking.com app and my Booking Now app.  The excitement of it all thrilled me, and once I saw how incredibly easy it was to book a luxury hotel for a great price the day before my trip, any tiny feelings of uncertainty were immediately gone.  

Using the Booking Now app (for travel within 48 hrs) was a piece of cake.  Here I am, less than 24 hours later, in my gorgeous hotel room at the JW Mariott in downtown Austin.  I chose this location because it's very close to all of the neighborhoods that make up Austin's hot and bustling music scene.  I'm here to find the best, the quirkiest, the most historic, and the most authentic parts of Austin's lifeblood... music.  

On the plane just a few hours after I found out I was going to Austin

The view of the Colorado River from my JW Mariott room I booked with Booking Now

So impressed with my spontaneous hotel room!

Immediately after checking in, I walked on down Congress to South Congress... or SoCo as the locals call it.  I found a tiny little record shop off the main drag, called Friends Of Sound, that was only accessible by the alley and then it was even tucked around behind a building.  I was mesmerized by all the vintage and used vinyl... I immediately went to the country section to see if they had any of the good stuff... did they ever?!  I picked up The Best of Johnny Cash, some pre-outlaw Waylon Jennings, and some Boston for good rock n' roll measure.  I starting talking to the manager and a local musician who happened to be shopping for some Miles Davis, and they gave me some great recs for some local live music.  Some of it is definitely outside of my comfort zone ( which is rock, alternative, country) but I figured... when in Austin, do as the locals do.  

Luckily I was able to find it!!

Inside the awesome Friends Of Sound Vinyl Shop

I'm about to head out on the town in search of some unique live music in the Live Music Capital of the World.  Check back tomorrow, because I can't wait to share the vibes and rhythms of Austin with you.  


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categories / travel, music
tags / travel, austin, texas, live music, booking.com, time out, new york, JW Mariott, SoCo, vinyl, record shop, keep austin weird

HP Instant Ink helps me to #NeverRunOut

June 30, 2015  /  Kelly Rizzo

A day in the life of my brand, Eat Travel Rock can get pretty crazy.  Also, many people don’t know I’ve also been a Realtor for fifteen years!  So I am ALWAYS on the go.  A typical day can include real estate showings in the morning, filming for my show, Eat Travel Rock TV, in the afternoon, and then dining at a brand new hot restaurant in the evening.  No two days are ever alike and I never know what each 24 hour period may hold.  

My morning routine

Recently, I had the opportunity to sign up for HP Instant Ink * and i’ve come to realize that it’s a major game changer.  Because I’m so busy, I just don’t have time to always run out to purchase ink.  And because I can’t always predict how much I’ll need to print due to my schedule, I need someone to do the guesswork for me.  HP handles it all!  When you sign up for HP Instant Ink you pick a plan that works for you.  The plans start at $2.99 per month and go up to $9.99 per month.  I chose the $4.99 plan as I never really know how much I’ll need to print.  One day I may need to print out scripts for my show episodes for my entire production team, and other days I may be taking a client out on 10 showings and need to print out all the listing sheets.  

Yay HP Instant Ink!

Just to give you an idea of how this works and how much you save… When you run low on ink, HP Instant Ink will  reorder you the ink you need (through compatible HP Wi-Fi printers) and the ink will magically show up at your door.  No need EVER to have to think about it, or go out to buy ink.  To put it in perspective, my $4.99 plan allows me to print 100 pages, or even 100 photos (comes in handy with food blogging!) Where can you ever print 100 photos for $4.99?!?!  (This saves me about $200 per year!)

I’ve also been playing with HP Social Media Snapshots…. this is SO FUN!!  A big chunk of my Eat Travel Rock career revolves around social media, it’s incredibly important to me and a lot of time and effort go into taking the perfect picture.  Now I can actually print those pics out on HP Social Media Snapshots paper and use them to stick the actual photos to proposals, media kits, or just have them for fun!

HP Social Media Snapshots

Bottom line is, like most business owners, it can be rough staying on top of all the things you need to do on a daily basis.  HP Instant Ink allows me to think about one less thing and keep me focused on my real estate career and Eating, Traveling, and Rocking out!  You can get HP Instant Ink now too! Not only will you be able to save up to 50% on Ink but you can get 3 months of FREE ink-when you purchase an eligible printer,  and sign up for HP Instant Ink online.  Click HERE to enroll!! #neverrunout

 

*This post is sponsored by HP Instant Ink

 

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Upcoming Summer Concerts

June 23, 2015  /  Kelly Rizzo

Lots to talk about folks!!!  I did a segment on WCIU You and Me This Morning today and I chatted about some summer concerts and music festivals that are coming up in the near future (See full segment here)... but in this blog, I'm also going to include several other that I wasn't able to mention on air.  Who's ready to rock?!?!

Ravinia Festival-  June 26th and 27th Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett.  This normally isn't up my alley but this is such a great pairing of old school and new school talent.  Tix are still available on Stubhub and other ticket sites.   Also, coming up this summer:  ETR Picks of course

The Doobie Brothers June 30

Blondie and Melissa Etheridge July 2

Rob Thomas July 18

Bluegill Music Festival-  July 4th.  Rend Lake Dam in Benton, IL -  If you don't have plans yet for 4th of July... NOW YOU DO!!  Come to Bluegill Fest and see me and 20 amazing country artists get down and dirty at the dam.  I'm the official Bluegill correspondent and I'll be mingling on the 4th with the headliner, Eli Young Band, as well as other amazing artists like Lo Cash, and my good friends, Clayton Anderson and Stella James Band.  General Admission tix are only $30 and VIP are $60.  Yee Haw!!!

The Beach Boys with Kool and the Gang- Montrose Beach June 26th-  This is huge folks... you get to see the Beach Boys ON the Beach!!!  I saw them in 1995 in Las Vegas and I was BLOWN away.  They are some of the major pioneers of pop-rock and i've always loved them.  They're still killin' it!  If you haven't seen them yet, now is your chance.  

The Windy City SmokeOut- River North at Grand Ave-  July 10-12.  My FAVORITE event of the year.  The 3rd annual Smokeout and I'm an ambassador this year!  Woo!  Some of my favorite artists and friends will be playing this year such as Lee Brice, Chris Young, Kacey Musgraves, A Thousand Horses, and Sundy Best.  PLUS some of the greatest pit masters in the country will be showing off their BBQ skills alongside host, Bub City.  

And NO, I'm not forgetting about Lollapalooza or Riot Fest... those will get their own very special dedicated posts as the dates draw nearer.... (as Metallicaaaaaaa is whispered in the background)

 

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categories / concerts
tags / lady gaga, tony bennett, ravinia, windy city smokeout, chris young, kacey musgraves, sundy best, lee brice, bub city, BBQ, beach boys, kool and the gang, montrose beach, bluegill music festival, eli young band, stella james band, clayton anderson, lo cash, doobie brothers, blondie, melissa etheridge, rob thomas

A New & Healthy Way To Get Your Morning Caffeine Fix

June 17, 2015  /  Kelly Rizzo

Want a new way to down your morning cup o' Joe?!  Or better yet, want to summer-ize your traditional coffee and add some great health benefits?!  This recipe uses my obsession, Trader Joe's Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate, it's like rocket fuel and a little goes a LONG way.  I made this in my Vitamix, as that is the ideal hardware for this recipe, but a regular blender should suffice.  Enjoy, caffeine lovers!!

 

Banana-Nut Butter Coffee Smoothie

1/2 cup Coconut milk

1/4 Trader Joe's Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate

1 frozen banana

1 tablespoon cashew or almond butter

Directions:  Pour coconut milk in Vitamix... enough to cover blades.  Add coffee, frozen banana, and nut butter.  Blend on high for 30 secs or until smooth.  Add a bit more coconut milk if you'd like it to be a bit more liquid-y.  Enjoy the buzz!! 

 

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categories / cooking
tags / nut butter, coffee, cold brew coffee, healthy smoothie, caffeine, trader joe's, banana, cashew butter, almond butter, vitamix, recipes, healthy eating, healthy recipes

Summer Beauty Faves!!

June 10, 2015  /  Kelly Rizzo

Here are some of my must have summer beauty items that keep me ready to Eat, Travel, and Rock out.... join me!!

First is the Essentials line from Rodan + Fields.  I love ALL of their products, I also use the entire Redefine line for anti-aging.  But this line is perfect for Summer because it all has SPF and keeps you protected.  Plus it doesn't have that yucky sunscreen smell.  The Foaming Sunless Tanner is incredible and doesn't streak or turn you orange... ain't nobody got time for that!! Plus the lip balm is my favorite lip balm of all time!  Click here to check out the line from my personal R+F consultant, Amy Wolff.  

I've had Keratosis Pilaris (red bumps on the back of my arms) since I was 20.  I heard they were supposed to go away by the time I was 30, but that was NOT the case.  I hate them and they drive me nuts, and since it doesn't look like they're going away on their own, I have to manage them.  I exfoliate all the time, and I've recently found this product, Gold Bond Ulitmate for Rough and Bumpy Skin.  It really works and helps my icky arm bumps almost disappear.  This is mandatory for summer when you want your arms smooth and silky for tank tops and bikinis!!!  Works for guys too ;) 

I am OBSESSED with this new light and silky foundation from Dior called Dior Nude Air.  It's more like a serum and is applied with that silver dropper.  It soaks right into your skin and almost disappears.  It is so lightweight and buildable.  It's a bit pricey at $53.00 at Sephora but very worth it.  It also has SPF 20.  Love it for Summer as it's so light you don't even feel like you have foundation on. 

This Laura Mercier Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20 is also amazing.  I use this on days when I'm going to be outside all day and it's going to be hot.  You don't usually want to have a full face of foundation on for those days and this is perfect because you can mix it with a light BB Cream or a light foundation and it gives you the perfect amount of shimmer and coverage. Once again, a bit pricey at $44.00 but worth it because a tiny bit goes a long way. SO great for all your festival looks!!

 

 

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categories / beauty
tags / rodan and fields, rodan + fields, keratosis pilaris, arm bumps, gold bond ultimate, sunscreen, summer beauty, Dior nude air, laura mercier, tinted moisturizer, illuminator

Healthy Menu Picks From Your Fave Chicago Restaurants

April 13, 2015  /  Kelly Rizzo

In case you haven't noticed, I'm mid- health kick.  Which isn't a diet (hate that word) because I thoroughly love and enjoy all the delicious foods i'm eating, and I'm never hungry, nor do I deprive myself.  I've just been staying away from all meat except seafood, making smarter and healthier choices, especially when out at restaurants,  and working out a ton.  Piece of cake really... mmmmmm cake.  

You might think it's impossible to go out to dinner and still eat well.  It's NOT!  Even if you're veggie and/or seafood focused. Here are my fave picks from my/ Chicago's fave restaurants. I've included a ton of neighborhoods, and cuisine types.  Please share with me your favorite healthy dishes, I'd love to discover even more!

Eataly Chicago- the grilled octopus (polpo alla griglia) at Il Pesce restaurant inside Eataly.  Cooked to perfection, not rubbery AT ALL.  The great kick from the chili flakes and chili peppers will also jump start your metabolism! 

Bub City- Bub City is known for their succulent BBQ.  But if you're not eating meat, or trying to eat light.. there aren't too many options on their menu.  It has almost discouraged me from going until I discovered, in the very bottom right corner of their menu is one seafood item.  The blackened or BBQ grilled salmon.  They're both INSANELY delicious, but if you're trying to cut sugar, get it blackened.  

Pearl Tavern-  They are oyster and seafood focused, so there are a few great options like the ceviche and oysters of course.  But their Salmon burger with shredded butternut squash and house made giardinera is quite possibly the tastiest sandwich, and dare I say, burger, I've had in a LONG time. 

La Sirena Clandestina-  There's really no way to go wrong at this spot since all their food is to-die-for.  But if you're keeping it healthy, check out the Head On Prawns with charred Serrano Salsa.  

Maude's Liquor Bar-  The oysters are to die for in this romantic and intimate setting.  I love the way they're served too.  Makes you feel like it's more of a meal vs. an appetizer. 

Osteria Langhe- Love the unique Italian fare at this Logan Square spot.  The Cauliflower with salted cod and sunchoke puree with house pickled veggies is a great meatless and lighter choice. 

MFK- This Lakeview spot has some of the best ceviche I've had.  But their Boquerones are fab too.  An anchovy is perched atop piquillo peppers and fennel, all of which is resting on a piece of crusty Italian bread.

GT Fish and Oyster- always my fave.  Their Thai Coconut soup is light yet filling.  So yummy with chunks of fish and shrimp in it.  Also their mussels in a spicy red marinara is outstanding. 

Beatrix- Love everything on this menu, but the standouts for my fave healthy fare would be the Mushroom and Quinoa Burger with swiss, baby kale, and sriracha aioli.  It's one of the best, if not THE best veggie burger I've ever had.  

RPM Steak-  Do you ever feel like you "just can't even" go to a steak house if you're not eating meat, or trying to eat healthy.  Well ya can.  RPM Steak has a ton of amazing salads, but 2 items I have literally dreamed about are the Coal Roasted King Crab legs with lime and coriander, and the Atlantic Scallops.  Trust me, you will NOT feel left out while your fellow diners are gnawing on Flintstone's sized Tomahawk bones.  

Sushi Dokku-  Now sushi can be pretty healthy overall... especially if you're not getting mayo rolls deep fried in sweet and crunchy tempura batter.  When you hit up this outstanding West Loop venue, try the Uni but order it in a cucumber cup and compliment it with the Tako (octopus) sashimi.  

Greek Islands-  If you love Greek Town as much as I do, you never want to have to give up the yummy food just because you're eating healthy.  Fortunately, I can OD on taramosalata and grilled octopus and this spot has the best of both.  If you're cutting carbs too, or gluten conscious, order the taramo with veggies for dipping instead of bread/pita. 

India House-  Indian food is known for having a ton of vegetarian options.  Even though they're fried I cannot eat Indian food without getting the veggie samosas.  Also, order the tandoori shrimp which is very light and comes with veggies on the side.  I love to mash up the samosas and mix it with the sauces and all the tandoori and veggies too!









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categories / dining
tags / rpm steak, king crab, maude's chicago, la sirena clandestina, osteria langhe, logan square restaurants, mfk, pearl tavern, salmon burger, bub city, eataly chicago, greek islands, vegetarian, healthy eating, seafood diet, river north, west loop, oysters, octopus