Blu Cantina

Atlanta is such a versatile city. I found a dope "Latin American Fusion" spot by the name of Blu Cantina, I feel everyone should visit them. From the outside of the restaurant you see the lively art on the building's walls. The vibe inside is mixed with a DJ booth, some space, a bar, and booths with a few tables inside and out. The food is great and they have a sweet variety and great prices. Music may make you change from a light bounce in your seat to a sweet stand up twerk... balance.

My go to drink at Blu Cantina every single time will be the Henessey Margarita. Now I know that Margarita is associated with tequila, but this cognac in there will give you a new outlook. Ask your server about a pitcher if you are 21. 

I went to Blu Cantina a few times while in Atlanta this last trip. My official introduction was with Kirstie and we had a nice array of delicious finger food. We started off with the ultimate sampler. You can always mix up the options, but we chose some golden chicken empanadas with a light chipolte kick drizzled over top, the veggie filled southwest egg rolls and the queso to dip it all in. 

Next were the flavorful variety in tacos that we had. We had a tender brisket taco, I had a fried fish taco with some nice hints of mango in it, a grilled shrimp taco that also has some great mango slaw, Kirstie had a surf and turf taco which has brisket and shrimp in it. All of these we ate with rice and beans. I also went back a couple other times, added wings, fries and other things I stated above. All of it was so filling and flavorful.

And of course I had a few churros after dinner because a meal is not complete if desert is not present.

MAKE SURE YA'LL FOLLOW THEM ON SOCIAL MEDIA TO FIND OUT ALL THEIR NIGHTLY DEALS IG: @BluCantina_eav

I appreciate everyone that catered to me and my friends in Blu Cantina. My sister and favorite server Diamond works here and she is a gem to say the least. Everyone here from the boss Gally (G) to the cooks are all welcoming and on point. I can always appreciate black owned businesses flourishing. Hope this establishment continues to grow and kick ass everyday. As I finish typing this I wish I was able to down a Hennessy Margarita and a chicken empanada, just a quick pick me up snack is all. I hope you all enjoy this chilled restaurant lounge next time you're in the A. I am glad to be back in the writing wave, I appriciate ya'll continued support and patience. Remember to always Love and Allow to be Loved xo  Tell them Ms. Mars sent you!

H-Town, It's Goin' Down

First time in Texas, of course a road trip was in order. Taking a car sometimes saves you more money, than grabbing a plane ticket; especially if the trip is planned in little time. Hope ya'll enjoy a few fun Houston spots. Contact me if you have any extra questions.

My cousin Bebe's birthday came around, so we decided driving up to Houston would be inexpensive and a blast; boy was she right about this one... Kinda. To start off she has a kick ass, eco friendly car. So it was literally under $100 there, and under $100 back in gas. That is already less than a round trip ticket for ONE of us. So I will be honest, the drive was total sh**! Damn near 15 hours of pitch black curves, swaying truck drivers and back cramps. Now, I may just be acting like a total cry baby about it; others may love this. I will say though, this is the BEST way to go to save money.

We decided to stay with family a couple of nights for peace and modesty. Then the very exquisite Magnolia Hotel for a few long nights, and early mornings. This hotel was decked out; it was a total mom and pops luxury package. The staff was the sweetest, they were all so helpful with everything. I loved how they didn't limit themselves to their property when guiding us. They worked so quickly, professionally and all with a bright smile on their faces. I love to stay on a property where every level of staffing has great energy towards you. Want to give personal shout outs to some of Magnolia's staff; to Chantay H. because she gave me great service as soon as I called, very detailed and hands on. Reginald S. was on the night shift and acknowledged us every time we were around with a smile. I don't have much of a favorite anything, but Iris, was just super kick a**, she referred to me as Ms. Mars, offered things before we even asked, her multitasking skills blew me away. Even Carlos out front with his contagious smile, and helpful services. Thank you all for the great treatment to myself and my guests. We were placed on the 21st floor of the hotel, overlooking beautiful Downtown Houston. The city is so beautiful, the locals are so friendly and catering. We enjoyed all the amnesties at the Magnolia hotel. They had free WiFi and snacks, happy hour, room service, gym, roof top pool and more. We even had a mini photoshoot on the roof, great view. They do have $30/day parking; we just parked at a meter right across and paid $7 for the whole day though (budget life). I got a great workout in while at the Magnolia, their equipment was all new and advanced; they have a fruit, water, and towel section for guests. I want to extend my gratitude to them 20 times more. Ms. Mars will be at the Magnolia hotel next time in Houston hands down!!

Tried to grab my Caribbean roots in a meal while out in Houston. Cool Runnings, mi soon come back man. I grabbed a very classic plate; rice and peas, oxtails, cabbage and sweet plantains large plate ran about $14. All the food tasted fresh, the meat was nice and tender too. Grabbed a beef and chicken patty for the road that Marie made sure was fresh. Marie put Bebe onto their rum punch for happy hour. Two of those bad boys and you will have to dutty wine once or twice. They are always offering lunch specials under $10. These plates are big enough to eat some, and take some too. They have the cool food truck in the front that stops in different places, they offer catering for affordable prices. Met some gentlemen at the barber college next door, I am all for people bettering themselves.

The laid back, drink specials, dance all night vibe place is The Flat for sure. The Flat has themed nights whenever they're open. I love the variety in music that they offer. Any place that plays the Goonies on the wall while Madonna is playing on the table is A1 in my book. As soon as you walk up to the door the security greets you extra friendly with a kick ass studded vest. You make your way inside and already see people dancing like an OG club. I am a total dancer, so I received the perfect energy when I saw everyone in groups feeling the beat. They always have drink specials, in which case budgets are attainable for a good night out at this place. I went on a Monday night which is Maniac Monday's where Dj Fredstar kills his sets with 80's music. Dj took me in a total time machine dancing daze, must hear if you're into the type of music to get it. Maybe you're more into smooth jams, like jazz. In which case head out for Tuesdays Jazz Jam this includes live music too. Wednesday's are made for my island lovers for reggae night, Thursday's are for on calls, these days are announced as they get closer. Friday's are for for house music lovers, edm, and electronic. Drink specials are too long to list, not too many bars can say the same.

This post is dedicated out to my cousin Sharlene, her fiancé Freddy and my perfect God kids Arri and JJ!! Houston trip was made for them and Bebe's birthday, I am just blessed enough to have family that know work must be done in between the fun. Thank you to all my supporters; I appreciate the ongoing support in everything. Soon Mars Madness will have pre orders so that you all are able to have a piece of me, wherever you go. Next stop is San Diego and Los Angeles. Be on the lookout for more posts near you. Remember to always Love and allow to be loved.

Magnolia Hotel

1100 Texas Ave Houston, Tx 77002

713-221-0011

Cool Runnings

8270 W Bellfort Blvd Houston, Tx 77071

713-777-1566

Monday-Thursday 8am-10pm Friday 8am-12am Saturday 8am-230am Sunday 11am-10pm

The Flat

1701 Commonwealth St Houston, Tx 77006

713-360-7228

Daily 4pm-2am

Daily Happy Hour 4pm-7pm

Pinchos Factory

I enjoy to have my full blown cheat meal once a week. Going steady on sticking to healthier eating habits, but know I still have work that needs to be done. I went with one of my best friends, Laura to grab a bite to eat and catch up.

We went and visited Pinchos Factory, I loved this place as soon as I walked in. The total vibes were giving me eco-friendly and homey. The seating is pretty well spaced out which helps if you go to eat alone, or 6 other people. The best service we had was from a young woman named Brooklynn. She was so amicable, respectful and attentive. I noticed her as she attended to other customers and it was the same for everyone. Loved the energy she gave us, wish her nothing but love and light. They have a selection of wines and beers to enjoy with your meals. Their meat is 100% humanely raised, anti-biotic and hormone free too. 

Laura grabbed a rice and chicken bowl, chipotle style. I am a big baby for anything spicy, so I just took her word on it being hot. She had rice, chicken, jalapeno, pico de gallo, homemade chipotle mayo and she got a side of cilantro sauce. She said that the side of sauce helped subside the intense spices. It was a great portion size as well, she felt full, but not bloated. If you like you food with a kick, this may be it. $8-$9

I of course, grabbed something a little out of the ordinary. Mine was called a toston burger. They use tostones which are fried plantains, as buns. Inside it came with jack cheese, lettuce, tomatoes and their homemade cilantro sauce. The first bite was filled with great flavors. Tasted like something that we should all have at our barbecues. I also grabbed a side of sweet potato tots, with a kick ass apple butter dip. $8.49 $4.49 All their burgers are cooked at medium well, my favorite. I was fond of them being 100% fresh and natural. Also they won the 2015 Burger Bash Champion. If you're winning awards, then it definitely has to account for something.

Overall this is a great place to enjoy with family, some takeout or even a solo date. They have 7 locations and seem to continue to be growing. I can not wait to hear the feedback you guys have for this place. Hope to see some pictures of your tasty meals. Thank you all for the ongoing support you give me. Excuse my absence last week. Been hectic with graduation around the corner. Remember to always Love and allow to be loved. Xoxo 

Pinchos Factory

7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd. #102 Orlando, Fl 32819

407-275-4462

Sunday-Thursday 11am-10pm

Saturday and Sunday 11am-12am

First Timer in The Six

This an overview of my first couple of days in the beautiful Toronto. I just love the city, the people, the food. Everything from the polite and helpful locals, to the "eh's" were lovely.

First stop I made was to Miss Natalie's. Great Caribbean food, amazing service. You all know I am a down south gal, I need my spices every now and again when I pop up in a new place. I had a beef patty which did not make it to the picture, maybe next time. Just know they were great, and he has mild and spicy ones. Also had the oxtails with rice and beans. The rice and beans were nice and fluffy not hard, not mushy, but just right. Rice was soaked in all the right amount of juices from the meat. The oxtails were tender and just the right amount of spicy. I was legit just sucking it right off the bone. You can taste every flavor pouring on out. Enjoyed every bite, and even had some for lunch the next day. They serve specials ALL DAY EVERYDAY. Picture below shows some of the specials that are around all day. I had the pleasure of sitting down for a few minutes with the owner of Miss Natalies, Robert. He is currently looking to extend his business with other foods like Asian, bar food (burgers, wings) not just your typical island food. I admire Robert for his work ethic and passion. The man owned his own business at the age of 23, engineer and chef are just a couple of his titles. I want to give a huge thank you to Robert for the awesome hospitality and wisdom. May your heart stay pure so blessings will always find their way.

Next location was Toronto Island, short ferry ride away. Now at this time of the year, it is mostly just walking around and a kick ass view of the skyline. So I went to stretch my legs and to catch some awesome pictures. It is $7.25CA to get a across, and they have different restaurants, shops and even have concerts on warmer days. There are multiple islands that are connected, but I went to one only, Ward's Island. They had the cutest houses, best view of the whole city and a nice peaceful trails. When traveling you have to know that sometimes, a nice calm, place to be at is needed. Because I am traveling alone, I needed to put my self timer to take pictures of myself. LOL If you are going to Toronto in warmer weather, you have to stop by here to enjoy the island people and what they have to offer.

Aviv

This was a dope Mediterranean restaurant with great service, prices and food. I went with my friend Nick whom I met in Toronto, he had been coming to eat there for a few years. Owner Robert Chee welcomed us with open arms, our waitress Marissa was so attentive and sweet. You all know I am huge on customer service, I loved it. Nick enjoyed their curry vegetable soup. He said it has a nice mild kick to it, not too crazy and perfect for a chilly day. I ordered their Warm Hero Pressed Sandwich. It was prosciutto, salami, roasted red bell peppers, mozzarella, lettuce and tomatoes, all in between a lightly toasted house made baguette. Of course paired with one of my favorites, sweet potato fries. Color may be a little different, but it is only because these are REAL sweet potatoes. Nice smooth inside, rich sweet taste. I wanted a whole other batch. Great pizza menu also, all different kinds. They have brunch specials all weekend 11am-3pm. Everything on the menu is very inexpensive, and the food and service are awesome. They do also have an outside section to enjoy and a full bar if you want to throw back a couple.

This was my first time in Canada, and also my first time out of the country alone. I have met some amazing, successful and good spirited people. I recommend whether it be alone, or with others a trip to Toronto. They host great music festivals. lots of parties in the warmer days, and great food year around. My birthday is today, and I took this trip not only for material for you all, but also to reflect on life. If someone was to tell me I would be where I am at a year from today, I would not of believed them. I want to thank you all for the amazing support, for sticking with me every Sunday anticipating my next entry. I will work harder and smarter for my 24th year of life. Be on on the lookout for another Canada entry next week on a few other places I visited. Love you all to the moon and back. Remember to always "Love and allow to be loved". xo

Miss Natalie's

5118 Dundas St. W, Toronto, ON M9A 1C2

416-260-9444

Monday-Friday & Saturday 11am-8pm Sunday CLOSED.

Toronto Island

Bay St, on Queens Quay (for ferry)

416-392-8193

http://www1.toronto.ca/wps/portal/contentonly?vgnextoid=3690dada600f0410VgnVCM10000071d60f89RCRD for schedule.

Aviv

328 Dupont St, Toronto, ON M5R 1V9

416-922-2433

Mon 5pm-10pm Tues-Fri 1130am-10pm Sat11am-10pm Sun 11am-3pm