Kendrick Lamar, Foo Fighters, The Lumineers, ODESZA and more! Headline Austin City Limits Music Festival 2023
The legendary Austin City Limits Music Festival returns in 2023 with an incredible lineup featuring headliners
Kendrick Lamar, Foo Fighters, Mumford & Sons, Shania Twain (Weekend One only)
The Lumineers, ODESZA, Alanis Morissette and The 1975 (Weekend Two only)
along with Hozier, Kali Uchis, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Maggie Rogers, Labrinth, Cigarettes After Sex, Niall Horan, Tove Lo, Thirty Seconds to Mars and many more.
The nine-stage, two-weekend extravaganza will take place October 6-8 and October 13-15, 2023, at Zilker Park.
3-Day Tickets for both weekends will go on sale today at 12pm CT at www.aclfestival.com.
New in 2023: No surprises at checkout – all fees and shipping costs are included upfront. Layaway Plans are available starting at only $25 down.

Kendrick Lamar, Foo Fighters, The Lumineers, ODESZA and more! Headline Austin City Limits Music Festival 2023
nine-stage, two-weekend extravaganza
Austin City Limits Music Festival’s stages are where the next generation of headliners are born, and where music fans can experience an abundance of artist discovery across the diverse and inclusive bill. 2023’s roster features 45% female performers, LGBTQ+ artists, allies and icons, multiple Latin stars including Ivan Cornejo, Kevin Kaarl, Eddie Zuko, and much more.
At the heart of Austin City Limits Fest is its Texas pride
At the heart of ACL Fest is its Texas pride, and this year the festival is proud to showcase a long list of amazing homegrown artists including Cigarettes After Sex, The Mars Volta, Tanya Tucker, Ben Kweller, d4dv, Jimmy Vaughn, Asleep At The Wheel, Penny & Sparrow, Randall King, Abraham Alexander, Angel White, BigXThaPlug, Katy Kirby and Goodnight, Texas, Calder Allen, Kathryn Legendre, Arya, Grace Sorenson, Sunrose, Blackchyl, We Don’t Ride Llamas, Jane Leo, Ellis Bullard, Rattlesnake Milk, Shooks, QUIN NFN, Caramelo Haze, Die Spitz, Nemegata, Huston-Tillotson Jazz Collective, The Moriah Sisters and The Disciples of Joy.
While taking in all that ACL Fest has to offer, be sure to slip into the shady grove and enter the world of Bonus Tracks, the biggest party on the smallest stage at Zilker Park. Programming at Bonus Tracks creates a hub of culture, connection, and positive vibes between music performances. Past appearances include beloved local Austin favorites Kate Waitzkin, dance parties with Outdoor Voices and DJ Mel, drag shows curated by Extragrams!, and a hilarious and lively swearing session with legends Brett Goldstein and Brené Brown. Stay tuned for the 2023 programming announcing later this summer.
3-Day General Admission Tickets, 3-Day GA+ Tickets, 3-Day VIP and Platinum Tickets and Hotel Packages will go on sale today at 12pm CT at www.aclfestival.com, with all fees and shipping costs included upfront. Layaway Plans are available starting at only $25 down. 1-Day General Admission Tickets, 1-Day GA+ Tickets, 1-Day Tickets will be available at a later date. Music fans ages 8 and under will be admitted free of charge. Austin Kiddie Limits programming information will be announced soon.
GA Ticket Holders will experience a new amenity this year! For the first time, premium cocktails will be available on bar menus throughout ACL Festival, not just in select areas. GA+ will include a full-service bar with preferred pricing for all beer, seltzers, wine and cocktails. VIP guests will enjoy complimentary beer, seltzers, wine and cocktails in two private lounges, which also feature viewing decks offering elevated sightlines of the two main stages. Platinum guests will receive complimentary beer, seltzers, wine and cocktails, as well as the best seats in the house with exclusive viewing at six stages. A full list of GA, GA+, VIP and Platinum amenities can be found at www.aclfestival.com/tickets.
Hulu returns as the Official Streaming Destination of ACL Festival! Catch three days of select live performances, interviews and much more during Weekend One, October 6-8! Full broadcast lineup and schedule to be announced later this summer.
Austin City Limits Music Festival is proud to call Zilker Park home.
Since 2006, ACL Festival, in partnership with Austin Parks Foundation, has generated nearly $55 million towards improvements to Zilker Park and parks across Austin. In 2022, through a percentage of ticket sales, fans of ACL Fest contributed $7.2 million to improving Austin’s public parks, trails, and green spaces.
In the coming year, APF will utilize ACL Fest funds to help design and complete park improvement projects across Austin including projects at Earl J. Pomerleau Pocket Park, Rosewood Neighborhood Park, Onion Creek Metropolitan Park, and McBeth Recreation Center. For more information about Austin Parks Foundation’s work in the Austin community and how fans have contributed to Austin’s parks, please visit https://austinparks.org/acl-music-festival/.
Fans can sign up for the ACL Fest SMS and Email Lists to be the first to get new information at www.aclfestival.com and follow social media to stay in the loop on all festival announcements. Instagram || Facebook || Twitter.
Austin City Limits Music Festival 2023 thanks American Express, Honda, T-Mobile, Miller Lite, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, BMI, Karbach Brewing Co., and Hulu for their generous support.
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LA Loves “Taste of a Kiss” with World’s #1 limoncello Pallini
“Taste of a Kiss” World’s #1 limoncello Pallini Celebrates 150 Years
Pallini Limoncello, the world’s #1 limoncello, proudly announces the launch of its new global campaign, “Taste of a Kiss.” Timed to coincide with the brand’s 150th anniversary, this sensory-led campaign invites consumers to rediscover the magic of limoncello – crafted with passion, kissed by the Amalfi sun, created for both timeless enjoyment and modern mixology.
The campaign’s creative centerpiece, “What Does a Kiss Taste Like,” will run throughout 2025 and will be brought to life through digital storytelling, influencer collaborations, and curated lifestyle content that celebrates Italian passion and flavor.
Pallini, founded in 1875, remains a proudly family-owned company and is now led by CEO Micaela Pallini, a fifth-generation member of the founding family. With more than 15 years at the company, she previously served as Director and Head of Production. Micaela, who holds a Doctoral Degree in Chemistry, is the first woman to lead the company and is honored to guide Pallini through this historic milestone.
“This campaign is a love letter to our Italian roots,”
Micaela Pallini
“It reflects everything Pallini stands for – joy, beauty, togetherness, and timeless taste. Sharing our 150th anniversary as the world’s leading limoncello is both humbling and exhilarating.” The campaign was developed by Luther DSGN, a rising Rome-based agency known for its creative expertise in lifestyle branding, visual storytelling, and experiential design.
At the heart of the campaign is the Pallini Spritz—now among the top three spritz-style cocktails served in the U.S. Elegant, light, and refreshingly simple (3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Pallini, 1 part water, served over ice in a large wine glass), the cocktail is quickly becoming a seasonal favorite across bars, rooftops, and at-home occasions. Pallini is supporting this momentum with retail cross-merchandising initiatives, encouraging consumers to bring the spritz ritual home.
Pallini Limoncello is distributed across the U.S. by Lucas Bols, the Dutch spirits company known for nurturing heritage cocktail brands. “Pallini is a rare brand that blends craftsmanship, legacy, and modern appeal,” said Brett Dunne, Managing Director, USA and Canada, The Lucas Bols Company. “We’re excited to help expand its reach across the U.S., bringing the spirit of the Amalfi Coast to American consumers and bartenders.”
Pallini Limoncello is available nationwide in fine wine and spirits retailers, as well as leading bars and restaurants across the U.S.
Sports beverage LA needs, but with a kick: Vodkade the Ultimate Canned Vodka Cocktail
Tastes like a sports beverage , but with a kick: Vodkade the Ultimate Canned Vodka Cocktail
There’s a new contender in the adult beverage game, and it’s already claiming victory. Meet Vodkade, the first-of-its-kind, hand-crafted, canned vodka cocktail made for those who don’t just play — they play to win at fun.
Born from the idea of creating a cocktail that tastes like a sports beverage — but with a kick — it’s the ultimate fusion of refreshment and bold flavor. Made with a proprietary recipe using crisp, high-quality vodka and natural fruit flavors, delivering a smooth, invigorating taste experience that keeps your competitive spirit sharp and your social game even sharper.
Popularity of Cocktail in a Can
Canned cocktails have surged in popularity due to their convenience, quality, and evolving consumer preferences.
As more people seek premium, bar-quality drinks without the hassle of mixing, canned cocktails offer a ready-to-drink solution that’s portable, consistent, and often crafted with real spirits and natural ingredients. Their sleek packaging suits outdoor events, beach days, and casual gatherings—no bartending skills needed.
Additionally, the rise of health-conscious drinking has led to options with lower sugar, fewer calories, and clean labels. With innovative flavors and better branding, canned cocktails meet the modern demand for ease, taste, and lifestyle alignment—all in a pop-top can.
Whether you’re rallying on the court, soaking up the sun, or locked in a heated game night, this canned cocktail is here to match your energy.
Vodkade is available in four fan-favorite flavors:Fruit Punch, Lemon-Lime, Orange, and Berry Cherry
Available in four fan-favorite flavors (Fruit Punch, Lemon-Lime, Orange, and Berry Cherry), each sip brings a cool wave of nostalgia with a grown-up twist. Sold in a convenient four-pack and the Victory Pack, an eight-pack variety featuring two cans of each flavor.
Vodka in a can?
Vodka is ideal for canned cocktails because of its clean, neutral flavor, which makes it incredibly versatile and mixable.
It acts as a blank canvas, allowing other ingredients—like fruit juices, herbs, or sparkling mixers—to shine without clashing. This neutrality also ensures a smooth, consistent taste across a wide range of flavor profiles, from citrusy spritzes to bold berry blends.
Vodka’s light body and high mixability appeal to a broad audience, making it a go-to base for refreshing, easy-to-enjoy drinks. Plus, it’s shelf-stable and blends well with carbonated elements, making it perfect for the convenience and portability of a can.
Now available at liquor stores and major retailers across the Midwest in Illinois, Missouri, and Iowa, with plans to expand into other United States markets in summer 2025.
Currently distributed across Missouri, Illinois, and Iowa by distribution partners including Grey Eagle Distributors, Krey Distributing Company, H.W. Herrell Distributing Company, Lohr Distributing Company, Donnewald Distributing Company, Doll Distributing, Kabrick Distributing, and Fahr Distributing.
Learn more at www.vodkade.com or on socials at @Vodkade_cocktails on Instagram and @Vodkade on Facebook.
About Vodkade
Vodkade is a canned cocktail beverage made with a proprietary blend of vodka and natural fruit flavors.
Designed for those who live to play and play to win, Vodkade combines the bold refreshment of a sports drink with a kick.
Vodkade is distributed across Missouri, Illinois, and Iowa by distribution partners including Grey Eagle Distributors, Krey Distributing Company, H.W. Herrell Distributing Company, Lohr Distributing Company, Donnewald Distributing Company, Doll Distributing, Kabrick Distributing, and Fahr Distributing.
It’s crafted for champions of good times everywhere. More information can be found at www.vodkade.com.
Vodkade encourages fun seekers to drink responsibly.
City of Angels Food Wine: A World-Class Culinary Celebration at Vibiana in Downtown Los Angeles Featuring 36 All-Star Chefs, Coming July 2025
City of Angels Food Wine: A World-Class Culinary Celebration at Vibiana in Downtown Los Angeles Featuring 36 All-Star Chefs, Coming July 2025
Southern California is poised for a landmark moment as Event Founder Shelby Russell and Culinary Host & Partner Neal Fraser proudly present L.A.’s newest world-class culinary festival, the inaugural City of Angels Food & Wine featuring an exceptional lineup of 36 Best Chefs taking place at the historic Vibiana in Downtown Los Angeles!

Franklin Becker, Photo Credit: Courtesy of City of Angels Food & Wine
Opening Night on Friday, July 25, 2025
Grand Tasting on Saturday, July 26, 2025
Set in Downtown L.A., home to some of the country’s most innovative dining experiences, a spectacular two-night strolling festival with Opening Night on Friday, July 25, 2025, and the Grand Tasting on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and 1,000 culinary and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 18 Top Chefs and restaurants, spectacular wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.

Chef Lindsay Autry; Courtesy of City of Angels Food & Wine
City of Angels Food & Wine will take place at Vibiana in Downtown Los Angeles, a vibrant, diverse culinary hub renowned for its cutting-edge cuisine and cultural richness.
Housed in a magnificently restored 19th-century cathedral, Vibiana is one of the city’s most iconic event venues, blending historic grandeur with modern sophistication.
As one of the nation’s most dynamic food destinations, Downtown Los Angeles offers the perfect backdrop for Southern California’s premier world-class culinary festival, where innovation, tradition, and flavor converge in an unforgettable celebration.

Chef Jonathon Sawyer; Courtesy of City of Angels Food & Wine

City Of Angels Chefs, Courtesy of City of Angels Food & Wine
The inaugural City of Angels Food & Wine will feature an extraordinary lineup of 36 of the Best Chefs representing Los Angeles, Anaheim, Pasadena, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, Chicago, Palm Beach, New York, and Mexico. This exemplary event promises to be a spectacular showcase of culinary excellence.
All-Star Chef Lineup includes:
Event Host Chef Neal Fraser: Redbird, Vibiana – Downtown Los Angeles, CA
Chef Vartan Abgaryan: Momed – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Govind Armstrong: Post & Beam, The Lobster, 8 oz. Burger Bar – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Lindsay Autry: Honeybelle – Palm Beach, FL
Chef Franklin Becker: Point Seven – New York, NY
Chef Giberto Cetina: Holbox, Chichen Itza – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Josiah Citrin: Mélisse, Citrin, Charcoal Venice, Dear John’s, Openair, Augie’s on Main – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Tolu Eros: ILE LA – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Ben Ford: Ford’s Filling Station, Galerie – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Jeffray Gardner: Marsatta Chocolate – Old Town Torrance, CA
Chef Joel Hammond: Uchi West Hollywood – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Katianna Hong & Chef John Hong: Yangban – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Jessica Koslow: Sqirl – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Vivian Ku: Pine & Crane, Joy – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Donnie Masterton: The Restaurant @ Sollano 16 – San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Lord Maynard Llera: Kuya Lord – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Raphael Lunetta: Lunetta – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Sergio Ortego: Bontanica – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Dylan Patel: avec – Chicago, IL
Chef Michael Reed: Poppy & Seed, Poppy + Rose – Anaheim, Los Angeles, CA
Chef Andreas Roller: Jonathan Club – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Steve Samson: Rossoblu, Superfine – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Jonathon Sawyer: Kindling – Chicago, IL
Chef Warren Schwartz: Magpies Softserve – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Shannon Swindle: Funke, Felix Trattoria – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Jimmy Shaw: Loteria Grill – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Kris Tominaga: Manuela – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Bret Thompson: Pez Coastal Kitchen – Pasadena, CA
Chef Niki Vahle & Anna Sonenshein: Little Fish – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Marcel Vigneron: Lemon Grove – Los Angeles, CA

City of Angeles Food Wine
This year’s City of Angels Food & Wine event beneficiary is St. Vincent Meals on Wheels, whose mission is to prepare and deliver nutritious meals to homebound seniors and other vulnerable residents across Los Angeles, regardless of age, illness, disability, race, religion, or ability to pay. St. Vincent Meals on Wheelsdelivers over 100,000 meals each month to seniors at risk of hunger and stands on the front lines for the homebound and vulnerable throughout L.A. County, especially during emergencies like the recent Los Angeles wildfires, providing nutritious meals, shelf-stable food, wellness checks, and even pet food. More than 250,000 seniors in Los Angeles face food insecurity, and many of them are isolated and homebound. For these individuals, St. Vincent Meals on Wheels is a lifeline.
This year’s Partners include Delta Air Lines as the official Airline, Chef Works as the official Hospitality Apparel, IceBulb as the official Ice Supplier, Waterboy as the official Hydration, and Vibiana as the official Event Venue.
Ticket Information: The Inaugural City of Angels Food & Wine will take place on Friday, July 25th, 2025, and Saturday, July 26th, 2025, and this is a 21+ event. A DELTA VIP Early Entry Pass will be held from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm and Regular Admission will be from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Tickets are on sale starting Wednesday, May 14, 2025. For more information on the City of Angels Food & Wine, please visit www.CityofAngelsFW.com.
Transportation and Parking: Guests are strongly encouraged to utilize professional car services, such as Lyft, as alcoholic beverages will be served at the event. Self-parking is conveniently available in a Joe’s Parking Structure across the street from Vibiana.
Follow City of Angels Food & Wine for the latest updates on:
Facebook: @cityofangelsfoodandwine
Instagram: @cityofangels_foodandwine
City of Angels Food & Wine
Vibiana
214 Main St.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
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LA’s Tracie May Shines Global Spotlight on Asian Flavor as Vietnamese Publicist and Foodie
LA’s Tracie May Vietnamese Publicist and Foodie Shines Global Spotlight on Asian Flavor
Tracie May made a name for herself in Los Angeles for 25 years as a luxury publicist and event planner leading hundreds of Opening Night parties, events and red carpets.
Then in an “Eat, Pray, Love” – inspired move, she decided to take a leap and move across the world.
In 2020, she relocated to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and became the Senior Editor of Epicure Vietnam Magazine, the most prestigious culinary and hospitality publication in Asia.
Today we catch up with Tracie to talk about life in Vietnam. The people, the culture, and of course the food.
Publicist Tracie May Indulges in Delicious at her role with Epicure Vietnam Magazine
Joe Winger:
What’s the most important thing that you want to share during this conversation?
Tracie May:
Don’t be afraid to take the leap of faith. Honestly, I took a massive leap of faith, uprooting my entire life.
I had a big life in LA. I was there for 25 years, and to take that leap of faith to relocate to Vietnam. It was never even on my radar.
People thought that I was insane when I said I was doing this. It was not supposed to be for the long term. But the whole point is, you never know where opportunity is going to come. You don’t know what your future looks like, until you write your own story.
I am proof positive that anything is possible if you just take a risk for yourself and your happiness, because the energy or the universe will provide for you if you’re truthful, connected and really get specific about what you want.
Tracie May with Chef Eden Daus of Lesung, holding Epicure Vietnam Magazine
Joe Winger:
You are now the senior editor of Epicure Vietnam Magazine. Tell me a bit about the magazine and your role.
Tracie May:
It’s a really beautiful, glossy print publication. They also have online and social [media presence].
It’s available in every VIP lounge, every business lounge at every major hotel, airline and club lounge. It has a lot of subscribers.
Focuses on culinary, luxury travel, hospitality, wine, chef profiles. [Food and beverage] business profiles as well as features on certain resort properties.
I was really lucky to [connect with] the publisher. I sent her a bunch of my writing samples. I joined the magazine about 17 months ago.
My main focuses are editing content, making sure the English is perfect, and dealing with editorial and the marketing teams.
But my favorite part is running the news section. [It’s] basically my curation of what’s hot in [food & beverage] in Saigon and all over the world.
I get to eat the best food all the time.
The majority of the restaurants that we cover are very high-end, gorgeous, [food and beverage] in town. So I get to eat a lot of amazing food which is awesome.
The food in Vietnam is extraordinary.
Joe Winger:
As a USA foodie, what’s a lesson you’ve learned about Vietnamese cuisine that you want the world to know about?
Tracie May:
The biggest lesson that I’ve learned, and it is evident in my extreme weight loss of 75 pounds in 2 ½ years, is it’s whole real food.
They are not jacking up their cows and their pigs with hormones. Organic is actually a thing here. The quality of the food, it’s not processed crap in a box that is run by Monsanto.
Because of the climate here, Dalat, which is the region in Vietnam where most of the produce is grown, some of the most unbelievable tasting produce is grown there.
The fruit is unlike anything you’ve ever tasted.
A watermelon is the sweetest, juiciest, delicious thing you’ve ever put in your mouth; and it’s available from every little fruit stand that is on Quốc Hương.
I walk to my local [stores] because I like to support locals here and have my little bag and pull my produce and all of it is grown on their farm,
It’s just that’s how people eat here. There is no Kraft macaroni and cheese. There is no processed, boxed chemicals here.
Because of that, the quality of the flavor profiles is so superior.
So that is the biggest difference.
The reason why there’s such an obesity problem in the U.S. is the abundance of processed food.
[Here in Vietnam], even fast food. We’ve got McDonald’s and Popeye’s and KFC. But the taste of a Big Mac or a Whopper with cheese is far different than anything you can get in the States because of the quality of the meat that they use.
That is the biggest difference of why Vietnam is so globally recognized as such a foodie hub.
Joe Winger:
You’re doing a lot to bring attention to Vietnam as a foodie hub.
Tracie May:
I was the guest judge on Top Chef Vietnam, and I was the guest judge on the finale of this show called Super Cake, Banh Xeo, which was basically, Build a beautiful cake. And these Vietnamese national TV, reality shows which showcase culinary.
So that was fun.
Joe Winger:
If somebody from the United States comes to Vietnam for a few days, from a food point of view, what must we try?
Tracie May:
Saigon is incredibly vibrant and there’s too much to do. For the best Vietnamese food hands down It is in district one, which is basically the city.
Mạ Quán
It’s gorgeous. A restaurant with Vietnamese cuisine that focuses on historical dishes from the imperial city of Huế to the north and in Hanoi to the Mekong Delta and is visually stunning.
The flavors are unbelievable. For sure if you want to eat an extraordinary Vietnamese meal, that’s a place, hands down, highly recommended.
Lesung
In the last 3 months I was introduced to Malaysian cuisine. Spicy, sambal based, chili based. The chef / owner is a fine dining chef, who’s a celebrity chef here. He wanted to get back to his roots and he opened this restaurant that’s very reasonably priced. Fine dining, but in a casual setting, not expensive and truly authentic Malaysian cuisine. All of his grandmother’s recipes and it’s home cooking at its best. That is a must go.
If you love sushi, Noriboi is an extraordinary omakase restaurant in Thảo Điền, in the town where I live. 12 to 18 tastings of caviar, and the best uni flown in from Japan, and extraordinary toro, and you can’t imagine how good, it’s insane.
Joe Winger:
You took a very dramatic pivot a few years ago and it turned out so well.
Tracie May:
I knew that I had to make a change. I knew that I was unhappy. Even though I had great friends and a great life and did really cool stuff in LA, I felt like I was just trapped in a hamster wheel.
I was bit by the “Eat Pray Love” bug.
Decided that, life’s too short to be unhappy.
There is a big, wide, beautiful world out there. Why not explore it while I have the chance?
I happen to have family who live in Saigon, and we conspired together.
I sold my car, put everything in storage, all the paperwork, packed my two dogs and three suitcases and got on a plane.
The original plan was to hang out in Southeast Asia for three months.
Leave my stuff with my family, get a backpack and travel throughout Southeast Asia and go pray with some Buddhist monks. Have my Tomb Raider moment in Angkor Wat in Cambodia and go do a lot of scuba diving. Then three months later, go home [to the United States] and face the music.
But COVID happened, my life shifted. So I stayed.
I couldn’t have imagined a more incredible life that I’ve been able to curate for myself than I have been able to in Saigon.
Tracie May at Tet Lunar New Year 2024 party
Joe Winger:
Your background is a world class publicist in North America. Because of the pandemic, you went from a publicist to a “stay at home mom” figure.
Tracie May:
I did, but I still had to pay my bills, right?
So I had a free place to stay because my family was paying the rent. When [my family] got stuck in the US during COVID, when Vietnam closed their borders, they got locked out for 10 months.
Suddenly I’m a mother to 2 kids in an international school. I’ve got to take care of their three dogs, my two dogs, their villa, all their stuff, in a country that I didn’t know and a language that I didn’t speak.
It was all about pivoting.
At the time I had hot pink hair. All the expat moms, they’ve got kids and they live in a compound because their husbands run Nike or Adidas or…[some huge company]
There’s me, this newbie from LA with my fuchsia hair riding my family’s electric bike with the kids on the back taking them to school.
The [expat Moms are] like, who and what is this?
Originally I became the talk of the town.
I live in a bubble, a little enclave within the city, it’s expat land.
I really think in the beginning I made friends out of total pity. Suddenly they were like, “Let’s take you to lunch.” So there were several luncheons introducing me to society and I created my clan.
The one thing that’s hard about here is that the expat life is very rotational because a lot of the families are on contract.
If you work at the consulate, you’ve got a 2-3 year contract.
Once the contract is done, you’re back home. I don’t want to leave.
So one of the hardest things about making really close friends here is that they leave. So it’s a lot of continual rotation.
I have friends who’ve been here for 14 years up to 35 years who felt the bug like me and decided no, this is where you want to be right now. This is a good place to be, but yeah, that’s basically how it happened.
Joe Winger:
A minute ago, you used the phrase “talk of the town.” Let’s dive deeper.
You’re getting huge growth on social media. Food and dining, lifestyle, travel in this genre. Your face is everywhere. Your voice is everywhere. Your name is everywhere.
What’s it like living your life, when someone sees your face, name and recognizes you?
Tracie May:
It is bizarre.
I have no idea how it happened, especially in Vietnam. Local Vietnamese don’t speak a word of English.
There’ve been so many times that I’m walking my dogs up my street or [I’m] on the back of a “Grab” bike, which is our version of Uber and they see me, look at my picture before and say:
“Sorry, Madame. Are you Madam Tracy?”
And show me a picture of myself.
I’m sure it’s due to doing TV appearances on Top Chef Vietnam and other major, national primetime TV shows here with millions of Vietnamese watching.
It’s bizarre, especially coming from Hollywood where all my focus has always been the promotion of others and the promotion of brands.
Suddenly I’m the [one being] promoted and I just find it really funny. But I’m grateful.
Joe Winger:
How has publicity changed from LA to Vietnam?
Tracie May:
I wear a lot of hats here [in Vietnam]. I’ve become the “go to” event producer.
I was a pretty major event producer in the States and produced [around] 250 fashion shows in three continents around the world, a bunch of parties in LA, and red carpets.
There’s tons of talent in Vietnam. So now I’m doing it for major Western companies who want a sprinkle of American or they want a real Western perspective for [their event], I’m the girl they call.
One of the events I produced was the 25th anniversary of the Sofitel Saigon Plaza Hotel.
That was a huge event inviting every government official, major CEO, all of their massive VIPs.
Tracie May with Artist Jerome Peschard
I’m actually about to produce another event with Sofitel for one of my clients. One of the most talented people I’ve ever met in my entire life, Jerome Peschard.
He’s a French artist with the same story as me, except he got here, fell in love with Saigon and just never left . He met his wife and has a bunch of kids. He has become the most collected artist in Asia globally, for specifically pop art related to historic, historic Vietnamese French and machine and pop art and he does it all. Composite art.
I brokered a deal with Sofitel on June 21 in celebration of the 60 year anniversary of the Sofitel Hotels and Resorts global brand, their Diamond Jubilee.
We are doing a two month installation, exclusive installation of his works being some are 2.6 meters x 1. 5 meters – large scale, which are going to be in the lobby as an installation in collaboration with the hotel.
It’s a massive thing, and they called me, so I’m really honored.
I get to work with him every day and he’s a total rock star.
Tracie May living her best life in Vietnam
Joe Winger:
What’s the theme at this point in your life?
Tracie May:
The moral of the story is “Don’t be afraid to take the leap of faith.”
Joe Winger:
It sounds like you crossed your fingers, closed your eyes and took the jump.
Was there a big concern before taking that jump? How did that big concern work out for you?
Tracie May:
It’s very personal.
The concern wasn’t about work. I knew that I could work internationally. I knew I could do PR online and still service clients abroad. No matter where you are in the world, the cream rises to the top and you will figure it out.
On a personal level in the sense that I have always been a serial monogamist. I had a really petrified, paralyzing fear of being alone.
The idea of being 50 and alone again, scared me. Having to start over again, scared me.
What I’ve learned from that is, I have no problems dating. I have no issue being alone. I actually revel in it because my life is so public now. When I get to be in my underpants, watching Netflix with my two dogs, eating a ham and cheese on freshly baked sourdough baguette with some tomatoes and lettuce; and some truffle aioli from my friend’s company. That’s my happy place.
That has been the biggest lesson that being alone is okay. Being alone is actually a good thing.
I don’t need to have a partner or a marriage to justify and qualify who I am. I’m just fine on my own.
Joe Winger:
What are the ways to find you and follow you online? How do you want people to find you?
Tracie May:
It’s all about the gram, right? My Instagram is @_TracieMay_
Or you can find me as Tracie May on LinkedIn.
My blog is here, but I rarely update it because I never have time.
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Your St. Patrick’s Day Starts with a stiff Irish Coffee, from Volcanica Coffee
Kick off St. Patrick’s Day with a stiff Irish Coffee and keep the celebration going late night with an Irish Espresso Martini.
Volcanica Coffee recipes are below that will give the good luck of the Irish!
Volcanica Coffee St Pattys Day has suggestions
VOLCANICA COFFEE’S IRISH ESPRESSO MARTINI RECIPE
1.5 oz of Irish Whiskey
½ oz of coffee liqueur
½ oz of Bailey’s Irish Cream
2 oz of cooled espresso using Volcanica Coffee’s Café Cubano Miami Espresso Blend
- In a shaker glass, pour in your ingredients. Fill with ice and shake until shaker is frosty.
- Strain into martini glass.
VOLCANICA COFFEE’S IRISH COFFEE RECIPE
1½ to 2 oz (45 to 60ml) Irish whiskey, to taste
4 oz (120ml) fresh-brewed Dark Roast Costa Rica Nespresso Coffee Pods
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 oz (60ml) heavy cream, very cold
Unsweetened cocoa powder, for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill the cups with hot water to warm them up.
- Whip the cold cream until thick, but not stiff; it should still be able to run off of a spoon. Set aside. Tip: The key to success for whipped cream is to keep it very cold, so put your whisk and a stainless steel bowl in the freezer for 10 minutes before.
- Pour the warm water out of the coffee mugs. Fill ¾ full with coffee, add the brown sugar and stir well until dissolved. Add a few drops of coffee into the whipped cream and stir to combine.
- Add the whiskey into coffee and stir to combine.
- Hold a spoon upside down over the coffee, the tip touching the glass edge and the surface of coffee. Gently pour the cream over the back of the spoon, allowing it to gently pool on top of the coffee; filling to the top of the mug. Do not stir. You should obtain a lovely layering that looks like a pint of Guiness!
- Using a stenciled shamrock, sprinkle cocoa powder over the cream to make a beautiful drawing.
Volcanica Coffee is a specialty coffee roaster
Volcanica Coffee is a specialty coffee roaster that imports 150+ exotic coffees from volcanic regions around the world. The mineral-rich soil from volcanic regions produces coffee that is aromatic and remarkable in taste. The company carries a broad line of estate, peaberry, decaf and flavored coffees.
Volcanica Coffee’s website offers subscription and individual purchases. For more information, visit www.VolcanicaCoffee.com
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Venice’s THE BRIG celebrates its 70th anniversary on Sun Oct 22
Venice’s THE BRIG celebrates its 70th anniversary on Sun October 22 with a night of fun and specials
THE BRIG celebrates its 70th anniversary on Sunday, October 23, 2022, with 70-cent well drinks from 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Complimentary Brig Tattoos; Limited Edition Hats & Tee Shirt; All-Day/All-Night Bands & DJs
Venice’s THE BRIG celebrates its 70th anniversary on Sun Oct 22
THE BRIG, with longtime owners Dave and Patti Reiss (Reiss Co – Nueva, The Alibi Room & Vito’s Pizza); and Jared Meisler (Nueva, Roger Room, Bar Lubitsch, The Friend & The Little Friend)
In addition, THE BRIG will offer all guests complimentary BRIG tattoos by a local tattoo artist, and limited edition hats and tee shirts (as supply lasts).
As is expected at THE BRIG, guests can listen to the sounds from local bands and DJs, all day and all night, including THE BRIG Band; DJ Dred Foxx; DJ Illa; and DJ Jayvon. A portion of all proceeds from the Anniversary Party will benefit St. Joseph Center.
THE BRIG has been instrumental in the Los Angeles food truck explosion in the early 2000s with its parking lot serving as the launching space for several well known trucks. In commemoration of the anniversary, THE BRIG has organized food trucks operation from day to night, including the world-famous Kogi Truck.
Venice’s THE BRIG celebrates its 70th anniversary on Sun Oct 22
Babe Brandelli’s original THE BRIG, established in 1952, boasts a bohemian charm and charisma reflecting the neighborhood’s diverse spirit.
The iconic bar serves as the gateway to Los Angeles’ premier dining and shopping mecca in Venice, California. When travelers first glimpse THE BRIG’s iconic sign above the illustration of renowned Golden Globes boxer and former owner, “Babe” Brandelli, they know they have arrived in the heart of the Abbot Kinney district.
Once through the weathered door, guests are greeted by a refreshed mid-century interior, influenced by the popular modern stylings during the early years of “Babe” Brandelli’s Brig. At the rear of the bar is the entrance to an expansive patio, flanked by the famed Art Mortimer mural-with-in-a mural.
Venice’s THE BRIG celebrates its 70th anniversary on Sun Oct 22
THE BRIG is known for its popular MOJITOS menu, including SPICY with Havana Club Rum, Mint, Lime & Thai Bird Chili; MEZCAL with Mal Bien Mezcal, Mint & Lime; ABSINTHE with Pernod Absinthe, Mint & Lime.
HOUSE COCKTAILS include BANTAMWEIGHT with Passion Fruit, Aperol & Prosecco; KNOCK OUT with Vodka, Cucumber, Mint, Ginger & Crushed Ice; D0WN BY LAW with Rye Whisky, Fernet Branca & Angostura Bitters, Stirred and Served Up; SOUTHPAW with Reposado Tequila, Hibiscus, Mandarin, Averna, Served Tall & Over Ice; MAIN EVENT with Blanco Tequila, Ancho Chili, Pineapple, Lime, Served Tall & Over Ice; and SLUGGER with Bourbon, Baronjager Honey Liqueur, Lemon, Habanero Bitters, Stirred & Served on the Rocks.
Try the SHOT & BEER menu including “BABE” BRANDELLI with Bourbon + Rolling Rock Bottle; JULIO “EL CESAR” CHAVEZ with Tequila + Carta Blanca Bottle; RAY “BOOM BOOM” MANCINI with Ferrari (Half Fernet/Half Campari) + Peroni Bottle; JAMES “LIGHTS OUT” TOMEY with Elijah Craig + IPA Can; and “MARVELOUS” MARVIN HAGLER with Mezcal + Grapefruit Radler Can. (for a complete list, please visit THE BRIG’s online drink and spirits menu)
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