Artu: A Feast for the Senses

  If you are looking for a fantastic place to dine in Boston, look no further than Artu.

Located on Prince Street in Boston's historic North End, Artu offers everything in terms of pleasing everyone's palates. Whether you are looking for a vegetarian or gluten-free meal, Artu can accommodate.

Recently the restaurant served The Red Balloon an array of culinary wonders that drizzled and delighted.

For starters we feasted on:

Barbabietole: the beet salad with gorgonzola cheese and a delicious pistachio vinaigrette.

Polpette: house made meatballs made to perfection.

Pane: Grilled country bread topped with smoked mozzarella, backyard farm tomatoes, and prosciutto.

Capesante: Grilled sea scallop, cipollini puree, and oven roated cauliflower.

If that were not enough, the restaurant gave a wide array of options for the Primi and Secondi course.

The menu choices are numerous and the portions are generous. Artu has a private dining area which is a prime location to hold an event as it has a wonderful skylight, providing natural light into the space.

When you visit, the eggplant rollatini is a dish not to be missed.

For those seafood lovers, the salmone which includes buttered brussel sprouts and a potato puree is a delicious option.

As an authentic Italian restaurant, Artu served dessert consisting of the most decadent flourless chocolate cake The Red Balloon has ever tasted, a canoli, and tiramasu. 

The North End feasts may not have begun yet but Artu offers endless feasting on Prince Street.

Happy Feasting!

Year in Review: Golden Rules 2017

It is that time of year: time for the Year in Review, a timeless tradition.  As with each of The Red Balloon's Review, we need to reflect on some prior Golden Rules.

If you need to review Golden Rules 1 and 2 then go here:

http://theredballoonreport.blogspot.com/2014/01/year-in-review.html

In case you need a refresher of Golden Rules 3 and 4 then follow this link:

http://theredballoonreport.blogspot.com/2014/12/year-in-reflection-2014.html

And, if you need to, you can find Golden Rules 5, 6, and 7 here:

http://theredballoonreport.blogspot.com/2015/12/year-in-review-2015.html

Okay now that you have completed your time travel experience you are ready to return your seats to the upright position and venture to the future:

Golden Rule #8: The future is now, "Grasp your dreams as if it had handles, for you're the only one who can turn it around." Remember that dreams are essential and that you are the one to take charge and make things happen!

Golden Rule #9: "Great Spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds." Those words are not The Red Balloon's but rather Albert Einstein. He made this quote many years ago, but it is one that rings true in present-day. There are going to be barriers and obstacles in the way of dreams so as always be positive, be prepared, and be proactive...gosh that sounds like it could be another Golden Rule!

Here's to a new year, 2018, a year full of dreams taking flight!

Sincerely,

The Red Balloon   

Year in Review 2015

It's that time again. And by that time I mean "Time for the Year in Review."
Time to look back and ponticate and gesticulate and use other big words that haven't been used for at least the past 365 and a quarter days. Now for the good stuff:

In case you need a refresher of Golden Rules 3 and 4 then follow this link:
http://theredballoonreport.blogspot.com/2014/12/year-in-reflection-2014.html

If you need to review Golden Rules 1 and 2 then go here:
http://theredballoonreport.blogspot.com/2014/01/year-in-review.html

Okay...now this is beginning to feel like a choose your adventure book...
hmmm..perhaps more on that later.

Golden Rule #5: If it's 70 degrees in New England in December on the 25th
than can Winter really be called Winter? Okay we'll this may not seem 
like a rule per se it is something to pontificate. The real rule is: Remember that
it is only time that matters.

Golden Rule #6: Facere non deflate. I know you're wondering 
why this Golden Rule is written in Latin. 
Allow me to translate: Do Not Deflate. 
I don't think any further translation is necessary.

Golden Rule #7: "Even walls fall down."
And with that said, "Some days are diamonds
                                 Some days are rocks
                                 Some doors are open
                                 Some roads are blocked."

Essential Rules to live by.

So there are your Golden Rules. Go forth and Be Brillant!

 

Flywheel: Full Review

The Red Balloon was recently invited to Flywheel to be part of a Flywheel or Flybarre class. After some investigation into what each was The Red Balloon decided to join the Flywheel class.

Some months before The Red Balloon had the opportunity to take a Flywheel class but instead opted to complete a 5k instead. When a fellow participant was asked if she planned to take part in the Flywheel class she responded with, "I think I might fall off the bike." Well, let me assure you that it is actually impossible to "fall off of the bike.' Flywheel makes sure you put special shoes on which fit into the pedals of the bike thus ensuring that falling off the bike is virtually impossible. Check one!

So here are the details: Flywheel provides lockers to place all of your belongings inside (just be sure and memorize your code to get back into the locker!) The flywheel class features non-stop music throughout so there is no need to bring your headphones. Check Two! You need to switch into the provided shoes for your own safety. The lights are shut off for the class so be sure that you get there on time otherwise you need to be taken inside by someone with a flashlight (this is inside information folks!)

The Flywheel workout is on a stationary bicycle which led The Red Balloon to question, "hmmm....how intense can it be?" The answer came quickly and swiftly: "extremely intense." Not only are you pedaling and standing but at one point the class focuses on the upper body and you need to retrieve two weights from the sides of your bike and start lifting them as directed by your instructor. Flywheel provides for a full body workout - towel provided. Check Three!

Sweetgreen: Now Open

Sweetgreen recently opened a new location inside the Prudential Center. It is located in the site of the old Tossed restaurant. The Red Balloon was recently invited to the Soft Opening and experienced the Earth Bowl which contains: quinoa + farro, organic arugula, tomatoes, raw corn, organic chickpeas, spicy broccoli, organic white cheddar, and roasted chicken. If you are unfamiliar with Sweetgreen, they provide a true farm to table experience. Here's a visual of what Earth Bowl actually looks like in full form:

You may recall that The Red Balloon's first trip to Sweetgreen was at the Chestnut Hill location. You can read about the full experience here: http://theredballoonreport.blogspot.com/2014/08/sweet-day-in-square.html
It was then that The Red Balloon tried the Chickpea salad. Sadly, that salad is no longer part of the menu though there is now a Hummus salad. The Chickpea salad is below:

The Red Balloon had also previously dined at the South Boston location of Sweetgreeen. It was there that the Red Balloon tried Kale, for the very first time:

There are many different options available and the portion sizes provided mean you never leave hungry!

Sweetgreen is now open in the Shops in the Prudential Center Mall.

The Round-Up: Joy and More

Movies, movies and more movies. So many to review, so little time.
So let's begin:

Joy:
The film with a trailer that basically tells the viewer absolutely nothing. One should always be wary of such trailers and such is the case with Joy. The film tells the story which is based in truth of a woman who invented over 100 products. The film for whatever reason chooses to focus on one invention: a mop. Yes, you heard it here first the film at its center is about: a mop. In case you missed it from the preview, in which Jennifer Lawrence is shooting a gun, the whole film is about: a mop. Yeah, you'd probably shot a gun too if your sole focus was on : a mop. Okay so you're probably thinking, hmmm what rhymes with mop....opps did somebody just say: flop?

Joy opens in theaters Christmas day.

Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip:
Okay silly title aside, the film actually has a few laughs and the music...well the three year old in the row in front of me was basically rocking out to all of the songs in the film. That may have been more amusing than the film itself. This one might be a good film to watch at home on a rainy day.

Alvin is currently in theaters.

The Big Short:
This film is basically bring together a bunch of stars, including Steve Carell, and tells them to drink Red Bull. Then, images flash before your eyes and you watch those stars as they are on Red Bull. This movie is based on a true story (it is not known whether or not the real-life people who were portrayed in the film drank quite as much Red Bull.)

The Big Short is currently open in limited release.

Sisters:
How I managed to watch this film is entirely unknown. The trailer is a disaster and unfortunately for Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, the film itself presents them as polar opposites, one being the extreme "good girl" and the other being the "bad" one. The film falls into the category of having great potential but being a serious disappointment in the end as we never really get any real depth of character from any of the characters in the story. And the plot line revolves around throwing one big party which is basically not enough for either of the two big stars to carry.

Sisters is now in theaters.

Til next time folks!

Exclusive Review: The Revenant

While here it is:
The Revenant starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hardy.
The film is based on the true story of Leonardo DiCaprio's character who has a very BAD DAY.
His day goes like this: first he witnesses the death of his son (while being unable to do anything about it) and subsequently he is buried while still Alive. Both of those happen at the hands of: Tom Hardy. Leonardo DiCaprio becomes WAIT FOR IT:

THE REVENANT
Yes, that is an actual word. Though, The Red Balloon initially thought it was made up for the film, the word means: "one that returns after death." Yes, that's right Victor Frankenstein may have learned something from the Revenant (as in, Victor Frankenstein may not have needed that Lazarus fork after all.)

Keep in mind that prior to being buried alive, DiCaprio witnessed his son being burned while alive and his wife and/or love of his life killed in front of him. As if the earlier stuff on said BAD DAY wasn't bad enough.

Both actors, DiCaprio and Hardy, are superb in their portrayal of their real-life counterparts. The film itself is extremely long. As in 2 hours and 36 minutes long. The Red Balloon can't deny that the 2 hours and 31 minutes of graphic scenes are worth watching for the final five minutes of the film. The Revenant has possibly the most epic ending of any movie made all year.

Ending aside, there is a memorable scene involving Leonardo DiCaprio and a stolen horse. And let's not even delve into the scene which can only be dubbed, "DiCaprio versus Bear."

But then again, The Red Balloon, as always does not want to provide any spoilers. Leonardo DiCaprio does partake in what can only be termed the original "farm to table" experience for most of the film. As in, he grabs a fish out of the water and well - eats it - head first. And this continues with many, many more wildlife. The film is dark and at times, it seems to be at such extremes that you almost want them to flash on the screen the words, "This is entirely as it occurred in real-life." But, there have been a few embellishments to the film to say the very least. You can see it for yourself later this month.

The Revenant opens Christmas Day in limited release and January 8th nationwide.

The Round-Up

A look at some films:

The Good Dinosaur: It's rare to see a film that anyone can enjoy. Of course, there was Hotel Transylvania 2 which if you haven't yet seen you should catch (even if you didn't watch the first one.) The Good Dinosaur is a beautiful story with a heartwarming message.

Spotlight: There is no denying that this is one well written film. The acting is exceptional as well and it is worthy to watch just to see Mark Ruffalo's performance alone.

Brooklyn: This is an love story at the crux and the main character falls in love with a boy from Brooklyn. The boy happens to have a little brother who basically steals every scene he is in with his witty antics.

The Martian: It felt like this film hadn't been edited. Beyond that, there is never a genuine sentiment on the part of the Martian himself that makes the audience believe that he thinks he won't be found. That lack of emotion really comes across the screen. This film is no Gravity, which is superb. If you haven't seen Gravity, be sure to catch that film.

Spectre: This was a Spectre. It failed to achieve the same level as Skyfall and seemed to disappoint rather than bring itself to the level of more recent Bond films.

Stay tuned to The Red Balloon which will feature a full review of The Revenant opening Christmas Day, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hardy (who stars in the film Locke, a truly amazing film.) The Red Balloon will be reviewing the film next week after attending the press screening.

Pinkberry: Powerbowl Review

Pinkberry, most famously known for their exquisite frozen yogurt concoctions, has now expanded their menu. They've added four additional Breakfast Powerbowls. These new menu options are: Quinoa, Oatmeal, Greek Yogurt, and Steel-Cut Oatmeal.  Each is available for purchase all day with the exception of one, the oatmeal, which is available until 3 pm. 

The four Powerbowls are pictured below:

Each of the new menu options allow you to add any of the Pinkberry toppings. I recently tried the Greek Yogurt and I have to say that it was nice to have so many options for toppings. The Powerbowls are designed as a healthy alternative for breakfast at any time of the day. When searching for a healthy option for breakfast or an any time of the day snack, it's nice to know that Pinkberry has a variety of options to choose from as well as a variety of toppings to personalize each bowl and make it your very own.

As you can tell from my bowl, I added some fruits: blueberries, strawberries, pineapple, and mango. I also couldn't resist adding mini peanut butter cups and cookie dough bites. It made for a nice addition to the yogurt.

The next time you are at Pinkberry, I suggest you try one of the Powerbowls. The additional toppings are up to you!


Disclaimer: As a member of the reviewing press, this pinkberry powerbowl was provided to me at no cost, however, my opinions are, as always, entirely my own.

Have you been Whiplashed?

The Marketing team behind this film probably is responsible for one omission which falls in the "Epic Marketing Fails" of the last 6 months category. Allow me to explain.

I just saw the film Whiplash. It is an interesting picture to say the very least. The film hits all of the "high notes" in a matter of many, many ways. I must also add that the music throughout the film is also phenomenal. J.K. Simmons plays a music teacher who is over the top in his teaching methods (I won't give the whole film away, you'll just have to see the picture for yourself.)

Okay so back to my main point as pertains to the: "Epic Marketing Fail." No, seriously, I did have a point here. Everyone who saw the film during opening weekend should have walked out of the theater to find a parting gift which was: a "I just got WHIPLASHED" T-shirt. Seriously, that would have been a great T-shirt and if that wouldn't have promoted a great film to even greater proportions and grander "scales" well I don't know what would have.

So if you're reading this and you have yet to be "WHIPLASHED" well then what are you waiting for? An invitation?
A T-shirt?
Well, perhaps this blog will take the place of both of those.
Onward and Upward folks!

Don't take this "Trip to Italy"

A new film called "The Trip to Italy" features beautiful scenes: rolling hillsides and vast expanses of luxurious lands all over Italia. The film appeared at first glance to have much promise. That was of course until I actually watched the film. What the film does have in the beauty of the landscape, it still fails to make up for in terms of plot, dialogue, script, and basically ever other matter essential to good filmmaking.

The movie stars Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon who overdo most every scene they're in and well...they're in pretty much every scene of the film. The film starts out okay and then gets really bad really quickly. The pair manage to talk so much that the viewer is literally in pain. I mean...it appears that the two mean well..but the jokes do not come across to the viewer as jokes instead it's almost as if the two are really trying too hard and end up being so over the top that the viewer can feel no connection with the characters. And there you have it: right at the heart of the film, the two actors have alienated the viewer. The duo are on the trip alone.

I'm writing about this film for the sole purpose of trying to save others from taking this trip. Trust me when I say: this is one 'Trip to Italy' you don't want to take!