Mr. Sid: Boston Winter Black Book 2015

W

BostonwinterBLACK BOOK

2015SID.hol15.cover.indd 1 11/10/15 12:03 PM

Barmakian SPREAD.indd 2 11/10/15 11:28 AM

Barmakian SPREAD.indd 3 11/10/15 11:28 AM

FEATURES

What Lies BeneathPhotographer Michael David Adams submerges himself in his craft—liter-ally. 16

Wine Cellars Raise the BarThese basement hideaways are merely functional no more. They’ve become invit-ing showplaces for family and guests. 22

That’s the Spirit!The holiday season is for good friends and good times. Here’s to looking and feeling our best. Cheers! 30

Destination: MoroccoEnchantment awaits with these must-do activities throughout

Africa’s northern treasure. 40

dEpARTmEnTS

Invitation to StyleThanks to you! 6

EssentialsTake the path less traveled to reach real holiday style. 8

food

The Charm of CheeseFor holiday entertaining, no other food category matches its easy elegance. 50

SPiriTS

Cocktails & Cure-allsHere, we offer four tempting tipples to try—even if a cure isn’t what you’re after. 54

HolidAy 2015

CO

NT

EN

TS

16

54

4 mrsid.com

30

40

SID.Hol15.toc.indd 4 11/11/15 9:48 AM

FEATURING: PRESLEY CHAIR, MOIRA PENDANT

BOSTON | NATICK | NOW OPEN: BURLINGTON | MGBWHOME.COM

Mitchell Gold RIGHT.indd 1 11/10/15 10:49 AM

sneak peeks

inv

ita

tio

n t

o s

ty

le

Travelin’ man!p. 10

Raise a glass!p. 39

1211 centre streetnewton centre, ma 02459617.969.4540 www.mrsid.comStore Hours tuesday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.wednesday & thursday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.friday & saturday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.closed sunday & monday

editor Mark DowDen

art Director stephen M. vitarbo

executive editor rita guarna

Managing editor Carol bialkowski

senior editor tiMothy kelley

editorial assistant Danielle Cookson

Contributing editorJosh sens

Contributing photographersJohn gillooly, MiChael DaviD aDaMs

publishing sTaff

publisher shae MarCus

advertising account executivesMoniCa Delli santi, MiChelle kaplan Director of production and Circulation Christine haMel

advertising services ManagerJaCquelynn fisCher

senior art Director, agency services kiJoo kiM

production/art assistant alanna giannantonio

accounting aManDa albano, agnes alves, Megan frank

published by

Chairman Carroll v. DowDen

president Mark DowDen

senior Vice presidents shae MarCus, Carl olsen

Vice presidents rita guarna, Christine haMel

mr. sid Magazine is published twice a year by Wainscot Media, 110 Summit Avenue, Montvale, NJ 07645, in association with Mr. Sid. Copyright © 2014 by Wainscot Media, LLC. All rights reserved.

Editorial Contributions: Write to Editor, Mr. Sid, 110 Summit Avenue, Montvale, NJ 07645; telephone 201.782.5730; email mark.dowden @wainscotmedia.com. The magazine is not responsible for the return or loss of unsolicited submissions.

Subscription Services: To change an address or request a subscription, write to Subscriptions, Mr. Sid Circulation department, 110 Sum-mit Avenue, Montvale,NJ 07645; telephone 201.573.5541; email [email protected]

Advertising inquiries: Contact Shae Marcus at 856.797.2227 or [email protected].

mr. sid

Barry Segel Stuart Segel

6 MrsiD.CoM

as the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, we’re giving thanks for a very successful year. our gratitude begins with you,

our loyal customers. it’s a pleasure to know you, see you, serve you and spend time with you in our newton store. we appreciate your support!

next we thank our designers and suppliers, who keep us stocked with some of the most elegant, luxurious, flattering, sexy clothing, foot-wear and accessories the world has to offer.

third—and we can never say this enough—we thank our staff. our clothing consultants chose to work at mr. sid because they have a passion for fashion, and they derive a lot of satisfaction from helping people look and feel their best. we chose them, in turn, because we love that attitude!

Kudos also go to our old world tailoring staff. they love a chal-lenge, whether it’s a complicated alteration or a lightning-fast turn-around. our tailors are driven by an innate sense of pride of workman-ship. this pride is something that can’t be taught. either you have it or you don’t, and our tailors have it in spades.

Please enjoy this holiday issue as a small token of our appreciation. more than a gift guide, it’s a special issue of our regular magazine, with features on holiday travel, food and drink, as well as artful layouts on vintage fashion and home design.

do stop by the store and see us when next you’re in newton. meantime, we wish you and yours a merry christmas, happy hanukkah and a joyous holiday season.

Thanks To you!

SID.Hol15.memo.REV.indd 6 11/13/15 3:56 PM

www.msteinert.com

Boston855-219-1854

Natick855-260-5627

It Looks as Good as It Sounds.

What do world-renowned pianists and prominent interior designers have in common? Both agree that a Steinway piano creates an exquisite central focus in a well appointed home.

The legendary sound of a Steinway comes beautifully wrapped in a piano case that is hand crafted and takes a full year to finish. The result is just as pleasing to the eye as it is to the ear.

Visit our showroom in downtown Boston or our newly expanded showroom in the Natick Mall to explore our selection of world-class instruments from Steinway, Boston, Essex, and Roland.

M Steinert RIGHT.indd 1 11/10/15 10:47 AM

streetsmart

Take the path less traveled to reach real

winter style.

Most of us wore out our boots, scarves and gloves last year. This year, it’s time to look good and feel good. These cold-weather accessories will stand up to the coldest days and the harshest fashion critics. They include water-resistant suede chukka boots by Andrea Ventura, suede shearling-lined boots by Gravati, Edward Green Dainite rubber-sole dress boots, cashmere Pantherella socks, umbrella by Davek, two-tone scarves by Ermenegildo Zegna, gloves by Dent and ribbed cashmere hats by Johnstons of Elgin.

essentials

SID.hol15.essentials.indd 8 11/11/15 9:48 AM

Inte

rior

Des

ign

- Lew

is In

teri

ors

Ph

otog

rap

hy -

Eri

c R

oth

CUSTOM BUILDERSADAMS + BEASLEY ASSOCIATESCUSTOM BUILDERSADAMS + BEASLEY ASSOCIATES

adamsbeasley.com 978.254.5641FULL SERVICE RENOVATIONS

MrSid_Holiday 2015.indd 3 11/2/15 11:24 AM

Adams & Beasley RIGHT.indd 1 11/10/15 10:38 AM

No matter the look, the right accessories will complement and enhance every outfit. Look for details such as 24K-gold frames by Randolph, jasper and obsidian bracelets by Eton and sumptuous leather briefcases, bags and wallets by Ghurka. Don’t forget a Ghurka flask; its contents will keep you warm from the inside out this winter!

es

se

nt

ial

s

10 Mrsid.coM

SID.hol15.essentials.indd 10 11/10/15 12:05 PM

BOSTON’S BESTBOSTON’S BESTMATCHMAKER

How Boston’s best singles meet. All you need is an introduction!

Sophisticated matchmaking for successful professional singles who want love, commitment, and romance in the greater Boston area. Upscale exclusive quality introductions.

875.233.1388bostonsbestmatchmaker@gmail.comBostonsBestMatchmaker.com

Matchmaker RIGHT.indd 1 11/10/15 10:40 AM

Just because you’re not at work, there is no excuse for not looking your best. On a brisk New England day, nothing looks or feels better than wearing a textured sweater with five-pocket trousers. These shawl-collar sweaters by Isaia, Eidos and Mr. Sid, made in Italy, are both elegant and warm. They’re perfect when paired with these trim and soft wool flannel dress jeans by Ermenegildo Zegna, Hiltl and Corneliani.

es

se

nt

ial

s

12 Mrsid.coM

SID.hol15.essentials.indd 12 11/11/15 9:49 AM

Cliffside RIGHT.indd 1 11/10/15 10:42 AM

333 WASHINGTON STREET, SUITE 417, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02108

WWW.MOURADIAN.COM

WhereQualityMeets A rtistry

Mouradian ad_Layout 1 8/13/15 12:54 AM Page 1

Mouradian LEFT.indd 2 11/10/15 10:54 AM

Moniques Bath Showroom is very proud

to announce an exclusive relationship with

Zucchetti design, and the Savoir line of bath

fixtures. Zucchetti is Italy’s leading maker of

fine bath fixures and these exquisitely crafted

works of art are now available for viewing

in our beautiful new Zucchetti showroom

display. The Moniques staff look forward to

showing you this spectacular new addition to

our collection.

Spettacolare!

Monique's RIGHT.indd 1 11/10/15 10:52 AM

16 Mrsid.coM

soMe people iMMerse theMselves in their work.

subMerges hiMself in his craft—literally.

photographer Michael david adaMs

When he’s not busy shooting fashion and beauty features for magazines like Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue and Glamour, photographer Michael

David Adams often can be found underwater, capturing surreal, ethereal, magical images. “Shooting underwater is incredibly complicated and chal-lenging,” the New York City-based artist has said. “[But] the results, when done well, are simply astonishing. It’s very rewarding, after all the hard work of being submerged for eight hours, to see the captured images. I love it!” We do too. Take a look at the photos on the following pages and see if you agree.

SID.Hol15.art3.indd 16 11/10/15 1:29 PM

holiday 2015 17

photographer Michael DaviD aDaMs


18 Mrsid.coM


holiday 2015 19


20 Mrsid.coM


holiday 2015 21


SID.Hol15.winecellar.indd 22 11/10/15 1:31 PM

the art of wine

wh

y r

el

eg

at

e y

ou

r b

es

t b

or

de

au

x t

o t

he

b

as

em

en

t? t

ak

e a

cu

e f

ro

m t

he

se

co

ll

ec

to

rs

o

f f

ine

win

e a

nd

ma

ke

th

e o

bje

ct

of

yo

ur

pa

ss

ion

an

in

te

gr

al

pa

rt

of

yo

ur

de

co

r.

Rep

rinte

d fr

om L

ivin

g w

ith W

ine

by S

aman

tha

Nes

tor

and

Alic

e Fe

iring

. Cop

yrig

ht ©

2009

. Pub

lishe

d b

y C

lark

son

Pot

ter/

Pub

lishe

rs, a

n im

prin

t of

Pen

guin

Ran

dom

Hou

se L

LC.

holiday 2015 23



holiday 2015 25

Previous page, a dazzling “wall of wine” fashioned from recycled bottles marks the entrance to this cellar. This page, a deep, rich chocolate stain on the doors and shelving, coupled with a neutral heavy-pile rug, warm up this wine cellar and adjacent tasting room. Opposite, an original, hand-craft-ed mosaic of marble, limestone and onyx welcomes oenophiles at the entrance to another cellar.


26 Mrsid.coM


holiday 2015 27

This page, a “cathedral of wine” features soaring 12-foot ceilings, graceful plaster arches and brick-like tumbled limestone floors. Notice how the bottles are displayed horizontally to show their labels clearly. Opposite, homeowners and their guests can relax, play a game of pool or enjoy a tasting in this wine-centered “entertainment complex.”


28 Mrsid.coM

A wall of glass separates this masculine cellar from the equally handsome living room, allowing guests to gaze at the 3,500 bottles while kicking back in a comfy chair. Take note of the brick columns, the floor made of 2,000-year-old Jerusalem limestone and the koa breakfront housing a collection of whiskey and other liquor. Left, the perfect accessory for a cellar: a tall vase containing used corks rather than flowers.


holiday 2015 29


Shot on location at Boston Harbor Distillery Photography by John Gilooly

that’s thespirit

30 Mrsid.coM

SID. hol15.fashion.indd 30 11/10/15 1:36 PM

Opposite, blue sportcoat by Ermenegildo Zegna, burgundy V-neck sweater by Mr. Sid, striped shirt by Eton, tie by Brioni, pocket square by Sid Esquire and sunglasses by Randolph.

Shot on location at Boston Harbor Distillery Photography by John Gilooly

’tis the season for good friends and good times. here’s to looking and feeling our best. Cheers!

that’s thespirit

holiday 2015 31

SID. hol15.fashion.indd 31 11/11/15 9:50 AM

32 Mrsid.coM


This page, brown vest by Ermenegildo Zegna, green sweater by Eidos, checked shirt by Isaia, sunglasses by Randolph, pants by PT01 and shoes by Paraboot. Opposite, plaid sportcoat by Isaia, grey sweater and striped shirt by Ermenegildo Zegna, pocket square by Isaia and beaded bracelets by Eton.

holiday 2015 33


This page, blue cardigan by Eidos, plaid shirt by Sid Esquire, burgundy corduroy pants by Hiltl, shoes by Gravati and bag by Ghurka. Opposite, navy coat by Corneliani, charcoal grey plaid suit and striped shirt by Alessandro Gherardi, tie by Brioni, scarf by Ermenegildo Zegna and bracelet by Eton.

34 Mrsid.coM


holiday 2015 35


This page, suede jacket by Corneliani, navy sweater by Mr. Sid, blue plaid shirt by Corneliani, sunglasses by Randolph, windowpane pants by PT01 and shoes by Andrea Ventura. Opposite, checked sportcoat by Samuelsohn, tan sweater by Gran Sasso, blue shirt by Van Laack, jeans by Joe’s and shoes by Andrea Ventura.

36 Mrsid.coM


holiday 2015 37


This page, coat and vest by Waterville, grey sweater by Mr. Sid, checked shirt by Ermenegildo Zegna and bag by Ghurka. Opposite, three-piece suit by Corneliani and plaid shirt, burgundy tie and pocket square by Isaia.

38 Mrsid.coM


holiday 2015 39


destination:morocco

10 can’t-miss adventures

it’s little wonder the name morocco comes from the Berber word for “Land of God.” From the sahara’s golden dunes to the high peaks of the atlas mountains, this north african country’s

magnificent beauty and exotic culture—a blend of Berber, european and arab

influences—seem touched by the divine.

40 mrsid.com

enchantment awaits with these must-do activities throughout africa’s northern treasure.

SID.Hol15.travel.indd 40 11/10/15 2:49 PM

holiday 2015 41

This page: A woman and small child stroll the streets of Chefchaouen, a city in northwest Morocco known for its buildings in shades of blue. Opposite: The thread-like red stigmas of the crocus sativus flower are known by another name: saffron.


Morocco is a bit bigger than California, so visiting its high spots requires several hours’ travel. Fortunately, trains here are efficient, comfortable and cheap.

For a Moroccan vacation you’ll never forget, squeeze in as many of these 10 experiences as you possibly can:

1Browse the markets. Herbal potions, colorful fabrics, pungent spices—you’ll find them all and more in the country’s souks, or

urban markets. Though these bazaars are found in many Moroccan

cities, the most expansive ones are in the northern city of Fez, and Marrakech in the southwest. You’ll find narrow, winding streets and alleys lined with vendors—set up much as they were in centuries past. A few tips for your shopping excursion: Don’t be shy about bargaining with the vendors, beware of pick-pockets and make sure you have plenty of dirham, Morocco’s official currency.

2 Climb the Atlas Mountains. Hardy travelers should pack comfy walking shoes

to ascend this range, which winds through Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. The main trekking season runs from April, when the mountain snow begins to melt, until October. Those in good physical condition might try reaching Jbel Toubkal, North Africa’s highest point at about 13,670 feet. The hike is

challenging, but the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the vast Sahara beyond are well worth the effort.

3Tour the palaces. To explore Morocco’s imperial past, stop by some of its grand palaces. In Marrakech, check out the El Badi Palace,

a lavish creation of the Saadian dynasty built in the 16th century, and the Bahia Palace from the late 19th century. In the northern town of Meknès, visit Dar Jamai, a former private residence that is now part of

42 Mrsid.coM

This page, from top: Should you decide to stay at the luxurious Royal Mansour Marrakech, the solicitous staff will be happy to arrange exclusive excursions beyond the walled city, such as luxury camping in the desert. The hotel’s magnificent reception building offers a glimpse of the opulence that awaits. Opposite: At the heart of the Royal Mansour Spa is a dramatic white wrought iron atrium, evocative of an elaborate bird cage. In the cool alcoves of this structure spa guests receive their initial consultation with a staff member.


holiday 2015 43


44 Mrsid.coM

This page: a color-ful alleyway in the Imperial City of Meknès. Opposite, from top: a traditional Moroccan spice market; teapots and other wares for sale at a souk in Essaouira.


holiday 2015 45

Dar Jamai Museum, exhibiting local arts. Channel your own royal roots by lodging in one of Morocco’s riads, palaces converted into charming hotels in the historic centers of major cities.

4View the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Once ruled by the great Roman Empire, Morocco contains some

impressive Roman ruins from the 2nd and 3rd centuries in Volubilis, an ancient city-turned-archaeological site that’s an easy trip from Meknès. The spot is open to visitors from morning to sunset for a fee of about 20 dirham ($5.45).

5Hit the beach. With coastlines on its northern and western sides, Morocco features a host of beautiful

beaches. On the Atlantic coast, check out the ancient seaside town of Essaouira. Inhabited since prehistoric times, its powerful trade winds now make it a famous windsurfing spot. Asilah is also a must-see on the western shore, with sandy beaches, whitewashed houses and a lively festival held each August. If you’re heading north, check out the picturesque sands of Tangier, a seaside town on the Strait of Gibraltar.

6Visit Casablanca’s modern mosque. While Morocco as a whole may evoke images of ancient, exotic cultures, Casablanca most

often calls to mind 1940s Hollywood. But this historic locale is actually

a vibrant, modern city that boasts the country’s largest mosque. Opened in the early 1990s to commemorate the 60th birthday of a former king, the Hassan II Mosque overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and can hold some 25,000 worshippers—plus another 80,000 in its courtyard. The structure features a retractable roof, a 689-foot minaret that shines a laser beam toward Mecca at night and a vastly ornate

CONTINUED...


46 Mrsid.coM

prayer hall adorned with woodcarving, tile work and stucco molding.

7Experience the Djemma el-Fna at night. When dusk falls on Marrakech, Djemma el-Fna—the city’s large center square—

transforms into a fantastical world of acrobats, dancers, storytellers, musicians and jugglers. When hunger strikes, grab a meal at one of the outdoor food stalls or enjoy a relaxing repast in one of the cafés overlooking the hustle and bustle.

8 Ride a camel. While trains and taxis might be the best mode of transportation to most of Morocco’s

attractions, there’s no better way to see the Sahara’s dunes than on camelback. You can arrange your trek with various tour companies located in cities bordering the desert, including Merzouga, M’Hamid and Zagora. Beginners are advised to try a day trip first (long journeys can leave you tired and sore); adventurers might opt for a two or three-day excursion.

9Try Moroccan mint tea. Amble the streets long enough and you’ll undoubtedly be offered this

trademark brew—especially by shop owners hoping you’ll stop to browse their wares. Mint tea is Morocco’s national drink, and it’s regarded as a way to welcome visitors and relax with family and friends. Served in small crystal tumblers that resemble shot glasses, the tea has earned the nickname “Moroccan whiskey.”

10Rock the kasbahs. Drive through the Dades Valley (between the High Atlas Mountains and the Jebel Sahro mountain range) to

behold breathtaking views of lush oasis towns and red cliffs lined with kasbahs—ancient North African forts. Indeed, the sheer multitude of these structures makes it clear why the area is known as “The Valley of One Thousand Kasbahs.” For an authentic experience, try lodging in one of the many kasbahs that have been converted into hotels.

This page, from top: bright blue fisherman’s boats in the port city of Essaouira; navigating narrow Medina Street in the northern city of Fez. Opposite: Morocco’s trademark brew, mint tea.


holiday 2015 47


Zanella LEFT.indd 2 11/10/15 2:35 PM

Luxury Properties - Prestigious Neighborhoods - Real Estate Professionals You Can Trust

95 Union Street, Newton Centre, MA 02459

www.mbassociatesre.com

Maxine Burtman [email protected]

Mitchel Bernstein 617.645.1360

[email protected]

William Raveis RIGHT.indd 1 11/10/15 11:20 AM

For holiday entertaining, nothing equals it For easy elegance. in

minutes you can create an imaginative grouping From diFFerent lands,

ranging From mild to tangy, From a hard block to a glorious goo.

cheese is bound to please!

the charm

oF cheese

50 mrsid.com

SID.Hol15.cheeseplate.indd 50 11/10/15 2:52 PM

A warm, soft cheese is a sensuous pleasure on the tongue—and deliciously simple to prepare. Bake a round of Camembert (you can leave it in the box) and serve with toasted slices of French bread, sliced pears or grapes and an assortment of nuts. Almonds and walnuts are good choices. What to drink? Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine such as Beaujolais.

holiday 2015 51


Parmigiano-Reggiano, the “king of cheeses,” is a must on any cheese board. Nutty and creamy, it pairs particularly well with pears, figs, walnuts, hazelnuts, olives, balsamic vinegar and, of course, warm crusty bread. A glass of bubbly Prosecco is the perfect accompaniment. But if you prefer red wine, Barbera and Lambrusco are outstanding options.

52 Mrsid.coM


When assembling your cheese board, aim for a variety of textures and flavors—soft to firm, creamy to crumbly, sweet to pungent, sharp to mellow. Some tried-and-true suggestions: cheddar or gouda, Brie or Camembert, Parmigiano-Reggiano or Manchego, Gorgonzola or Roquefort. It’s a good idea to vary texture and taste among the carbs too—sliced baguette, bread sticks, and “neutral” crackers. (Flavored crackers can overwhelm the flavors fo the cheeses.) Thinly sliced fresh fruit, figs, apricots, almonds, walnuts, jams and chutneys all make excellent accompaniments.

holiday 2015 53


CoCktails & Cure-alls

before there was alka-seltZer or aspiriN or aMbieN, folks feeliNg uNder the weather relied oN restorative reMedies whipped up by loCal pharMaCists. here, we offer 4 teMptiNg tipples to try—eveN if a “Cure” isN’t what you’re after.

54 Mrsid.CoM

SID.Hol15.drinks8pps.indd 54 11/10/15 2:58 PM

Corpse Reviver

n 3 ounces cognac n 2 ounces calvadosn 1 ounce ginn 1 ounce sweet vermouthn 1 ounce falernum n Ice

Fill a Boston shaker three-quarters with ice. Gently pour the cognac, calvados, gin, vermouth and falernum over the ice, and shake briskly for 30 seconds.

Toss a few ice cubes into a short rocks glass. Strain the mixture into the glass, sit back and slowly sip that hangover away.

True to its name, a Corpse Reviver is meant to re-animate the dead—or, at least, the vividly hung-over. A hearty dose of cognac soothes the pain of the night before, while the fragrant falernum rejuvenates all five aching senses. Falernum gets its name from an ancient Roman wine called falernian, which, legend has it, was so high in alcohol it could be set on fire.

CoCktails & Cure-alls

Rec

ipes

rep

rinte

d w

ith p

erm

issi

on fr

om A

pot

heca

ry C

ockt

ails

by

War

ren

Bob

row

. © 2

013

Fair

Win

ds

Pre

ss, a

n im

prin

t of

Qua

rto

Pub

lishi

ng G

roup

holiday 2015 55

c/o Fair Winds Press, an imprint of Quarto Publishing Group


56 Mrsid.coM


holiday 2015 57

Absinthe Frappé

n 2 ounces absinthen ½ ounce simple syrupn 10 fresh mint leaves (plus extra for garnish)n 3 ounces seltzer watern Crushed, pebble-sized ice

Combine the absinthe, simple syrup and mint leaves in a large martini glass. Add the ice a spoonful at a time as you stir the absinthe mix-ture gently with a bar spoon, so that the glass becomes frosty. When the glass is nearly full, top with the seltzer water and stir gently. Tear a few mint leaves and strew them over the top of the drink. When nothing else will shift that truly dogged headache, this icy concoc-tion can help.

These days, when we think of frappés, we usually imagine high-octane, sugar-laden, iced-coffee drinks. Traditionally, though, a frappé is simply a liqueur poured over shaved ice. This take on the frappé features absinthe, which has a reputation for alleviating aches due to its high alcohol level. Ab-sinthe frappés have their roots in New Orleans, where these cooling potions could be enjoyed all year.


58 Mrsid.coM


holiday 2015 59

Aperol Fizz

n 2 ounces Aperoln Ice cubesn 6 ounces sparkling natural mineral water (preferably one with a strong mineral flavor)n 2 shakes Angostura bittersn Lemon zest twist or lemon slice

Add the Aperol to a Boston shaker and fill the shaker three-quarters with ice cubes. Shake vigorously for 20 seconds. Add a few cubes of ice to a Collins glass; then strain the mixture slowly over the ice. Top the chilled Aperol with the sparkling mineral water; add bitters; gar-nish with the lemon zest twist; and prepare to be transported to an outdoor café in Italy. The Aperol Fizz is so light and re-freshing, you have permission to go ahead and have another!

Historically, the citrusy Italian aperitif Aperol has been enjoyed before, during and after lengthy meals to perk up appetites and ease digestion. It gently raises the spirits too, especially when combined with aromatic bitters and fizzy water. Plus, since it’s relatively low in alcohol, the Aperol Fizz is a sensible drink, so you’ll be less likely to overindulge.


60 Mrsid.coM


holiday 2015 61

Mexican Sleep Cure

n 3 ounces mezcaln 1 cup Mexican “spicy” hot chocolate (see below)n ½ tsp. vanilla extractn Dark brown sugar, to taste

Mexican “spicy” hot chocolaten Combine ¾ cup whole milk with ¼ cup heavy cream.n Add ¼ pound grated bittersweet chocolate.n Heat slowly, do not boil, and whisk constantly until smooth.n Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, and sugar to taste.

Prepare the hot chocolate. Preheat a mug by pouring boiling water into it; discard the water after a few seconds. Add the mezcal to the mug, followed by the hot chocolate, and then doctor it with the vanilla extract and sugar. Sip, and sleep is sure to follow.

Alcohol-driven sedatives were originally created to treat individuals who were overwrought with stress. These sedatives relaxed the body and calmed the mind through the combination of hot, strong liquids and even stronger liquors. Here, mezcal—a smoky, agave-based Mexican spirit—is added to a cup of spicy Mexican hot chocolate, and it’s very effective when it comes to chasing the sandman.


62 mrsid.com


holiday 2015 63

Coconut Cooler

n 1 large coconut, chilled n 6 ounces Rhum Agricole

Chill the coconut by keeping it on ice overnight, or by storing it in the refrigerator. Using a drill, puncture three holes in the coconut. (But don’t discard the precious water inside!) In the islands, a machete is often used to punch holes in coconuts. Some people who use machetes are missing their fingertips. Don’t be one of them.

Add the Rhum Agricole through one of the holes, using a funnel if necessary. Stick a straw into each of the holes, and sip the contents while cheek-to-cheek with a close friend. Serves 2.

In the Caribbean, pharmacists of days gone by might have been called on to help patients counter the effects of too much sun. Their “prescription” was probably a simple one—potassium-packed coconut water for hydration (it has more potassium than two bananas) and local rum to ease the sufferer’s body and mind. The best part is, there’s no glass to clean afterward.


Proudly Offering

FENCING

RAILINGS

PERGOLAS

ARBORS

ARCHITECTURALMETALWORK

ACCESSORIES

FURNISHINGS

www.perfectionfence.com I 1-800-537-2900 I info@perfec tionfence.com

Call for our free catalog or to arrange for an in-home consultation

Serving Massachusetts [including MVY+ ACK], Rhode Island, & Connecticut

ou’ll feel right at home with usY

Perfection Fence RIGHT.indd 1 11/10/15 11:02 AM

First Commons Bank — where changing banksmakes common sense.

We’re the local bank that the Boston Business Journal referred to as — “the antithesis of big banks.” We just call it common sense banking. It reflects our desire to provide superior customer service and to always exceed customer expectations.

161 Linden Street, Wellesley (in Linden Square next to Massage Envy)

718 Beacon Street, Newton Centre (next to the post office)

www.firstcommonsbank.com • 617.243.4400

1583034 MrSid Mag Ad.pdf 1 8/10/15 2:05 PM

First Common Bank LEFT.indd 2 11/10/15 10:44 AM

Documents

Mr. Sid: Boston Winter Black Book 2015