For The Weekenders: Comfort Food Prescriptions, Glass House Dining, Whiskey Delivery

February 28, 2014 by Rego

Yeah…I know, this one’s late. But hey, look at the bright side – it’s not too late. I mean…you’re not going to be scrambling around on Friday, that’s for sure. Plus, this one’s worth the wait. I’ve got three great spots for you to check out, each and every one tailored to fit whatever mood you’re in. As long as it’s not depressed…depressed dining is a no go…but these spots will put a smile on your face.

Ready? Let’s go.

Transparency seems to be the new age trend, and while I generally like to keep a private life, the place I’m about to tell you about is worth being a little out in the open. Though secret, unknown, tucked away, and even underground lounges are far more thrilling to discover, 1826 Restaurant & Lounge is just one of those places that turn public party naysayers on the path of reconsideration.

Why? For the sheer fact it’s an architectural beauty. The place is comprised entirely of glass, meaning anyone outside can look in – but honestly, from the outside, it’s a pretty nice view to soak in. From the inside, make it to the top floor and you feel like you’re the observer to the outside world, instead of the observed.

1826 has it all. Insanely great music, clean lines, elegant bar, and a mixed menu of cocktails and food that’s bound to get anyone who’s full hungry, and anyone that’s “not drinking this weekend” having a “sip or two.” Welcoming walk-ins and taking reservations, this is a great go-to spot for when you want to impress that high maintenance date or a few friends who are looking for a place that’s swank and modern. The key here is quality, plain and simple.

So here’s the deal – book a reservation for about 9:30 or so, you know, to give yourself enough time to hit the gym, freshen up, and put on your finest (no tennis shoes and t-shirts here, please). Ring up your friends or that date and say you’ll either meet them at 1826 or be picking them up. The former always works out better. If you’re really feeling adventurous, rent a luxury car from Lou La Vie for the evening…if you don’t already have one.

Step inside and get ready for some fun. It’s always good to start out with drinks. Order a cocktail or simple drink while browsing the menu – they have options for vegetarians and steak lovers alike, and a unique way of making it known. Enjoy every bite of your meal (the tastes are explosive) then head upstairs to the lounge area to schmooze and booze the night away. This is Miami, after all.

But hang on – let’s say you don’t want a “fancy” night out (pfft, please). Let’s say you’ve been through a break up (*cough*postValentinesDaycliche*cough*) and instead just want to be forgotten by the world with a few bros or ace girls. You want that nice dinner to make you feel powerful and independent, but are perfectly comfortable in your “slumming it” attire.

Or, maybe you genuinely just fancy a night in with the lads/girls. Your pick.

What do you do? Where do you go?

In the Sack, of course….that being the name of the place – not your actual bed. No. No sexy parties. Not now.

While In The Sack does encourage you to make love, not meals, they also allow you to either take out or order-in -WAIT FOR IT- gourmet food. As in, food that looks pretty…and tastes pretty damn good. Not to mention some fine wine and spirits (beer, too).

Ergo if you’re busy with your new found habit of smoking and knocking back bourbon like it’s water or crying into a pint of ice cream and watching Sleepless in Seattle, don’t worry – these guys have you covered. Meaning no dumb decisions on whether or not you’re sober enough to drive, and no concerns of your messy hair and smeared makeup.

So go ahead, order up that grilled flank steak with a side of roasted asparagus, and Guinness chocolate chip bread pudding for dessert. Just don’t forget the whiskey, and some Irish Cream to continue satisfying that sweet tooth of yours.

Save the best for last. This next one puts a unique spin on nightlife and stay at home dining, all while carrying it out flawlessly and with perfection.

Situation: You wanna suit up, dress nice. You want nice drinks, with friends. You also want to stuff your face with comfort foods.

Solution? Now’s the time to head to Vegas and see a different doctor to get your comfort food prescription over at Rx Boiler Room. Remember that neat little underground spot I told you about a few weeks back? Well, same concept, except don’t let that stop you from reading – these guys have their own nice little spin on things.

For The Weekenders Comfort Food Prescriptions Glass House Dining Whiskey Delivery, For The Weekenders Rego's Life, Rego's Life, Rx Boiler Room, weekend activities, las vegas nightlife

Like this awesome floor piece, for starters.

It’s recommended to make a reservation, although there are a plethora of seats – you still want the best ones. Besides, it’s Vegas, baby. You deserve the best and nothing less. Aesthetics wise this place has a steampunk feel to it, something that somehow, never gets old and always seems to fascinate.

So where were we? Oh right, comfort foods. Get them here, along with epic cocktails made by mixologists who really know their shit.

Workin’ hard or hardly workin’, eh Mac?

Both their food and drink menus have been ever so affectionately renamed as well – Nourishment Charts and Libation Charts, in respective order, full of tasty and original delights from these awesome chefs. My recommendation? Get together a bunch of friends or a date who likes to eat, because you’re going to want to try everything.

Start with BBQ beef spring rolls or an Inside Out French Onion Grilled Cheese, then move on to a spin of a certain fast food chain’s famous bucket experience, with crispy fried Game Hen, or some Peking Duck Lettuce Wraps. From there, take your pick from some choice sweets with Croughnuts or a bit of Pie Americana. Throw in some fun-to-say drinks like Pizzazerac and Time Traveler’s Tea, and you’ve got yourself a night out, with the palette comforts of a night in.

It’s been a while since your weekend looked and tasted this good.

As always…

Stay awesome.

– Rego

For The Weekenders: Comfort Food Prescriptions, Glass House Dining, Whiskey Delivery is a post from and first appeared on Rego’s Life

“You can’t give…

February 26, 2014 by Rego

Musings: Quote Wednesdays…

Never give up on your dreams. If you can go out and work a job to help someone else build theirs, never rob yourself of your own. You want to live a life full of “I did’s” instead of “what if’s.”

Just a little mid-week inspiration. 😉

As always…

Stay awesome.™

– Rego

Musings Episode 48: Quality vs. Quantity

February 23, 2014 by Rego

I remember when I first read a particular quote of Oscar Wilde’s from his “The Picture of Dorian Gray” book…

…and how it felt realizing that this simple quote put everything friends and I have ever spit balled about into perfect explanation.

Often people brag about how much something costs them, or the name brand it is. Yet to question whether or not that said thing is quality or not is rarely ever acted upon.

Would you rather have something that’s “okay” and cost a lot of something else, or would you rather have something that’s well made, of value, without the “big” name brand association and price tag?

Would you rather have a lot of people you know, but not many you trust, or a few people you know, all of whom you can trust?

Would you rather have a lot of acquaintances, or a few genuine friends?

A friend of mine used to love buying Ralph Lauren for women. The cuts were perfect for her, as she was of slender profile, tall. Then something changed. She visited me after shopping one day and plopped down her bags. “Look at this! Tell me if you notice the difference.”

The price was the same but the quality changed significantly. The cuts became short and wide, uneven panels, and while most of the fabric remained the same, something was different that I couldn’t put my finger on.

“Umm,” I hesitated, “well, the cuts look different,” I continued putting one shirt up to her for comparison. “They’re shorter, for one…and wider.”

“That’s what I said!” she said frustrated.

Why was she frustrated? Because here she was, a once dedicated patron of the Ralph Lauren brand, and now she was finding that the brand she put so much trust in was slowly changing.

Keep in mind, in being tall and slender finding clothing that are well fitted is a task for her. She shopped at a few, very select places that accommodated her needs, and while Ralph Lauren had made excellent cuts in trousers and the like, something had changed for their shirts and blouses.

I myself know that Ralph Lauren makes many different excellent lines, from Black Label to Blue Label and more…

…and she could’ve easily tried another line of theirs. But the particular convenience of walking into your regular Ralph Lauren store is something she very much enjoyed.

She could’ve very well shopped online or some other alternative, but what frustrated her the most was the fact that to a degree the brand’s quality factor had dropped, while the quantity factor in price remained the same.

…and this is where people are sometimes forced to choose, quality or quantity? Brand loyalty or going elsewhere to seek better?

This could be looked at in an opposite manner as well. Sometimes buying the cheapest isn’t always the best idea when you’re looking for something to last.

Being rather particular about what kinds of electronics I buy, and the shoes on my feet, the type of threads on my back and whether or not they’re made of natural resources or polyester, I’ve found myself lately getting more and more into organic cotton.

Researching an item before buying it is always a good idea. I remember a huge mistake made a while back. Usually, shopping online for sparring gear in general – isn’t a natural habit of mine. There’s a need to feel the gear, inspect the material, plus many other things.

But this was back when new to MMA and more of an avid fencer.

It occurred to me as a great idea to purchase focus mitts on the internet. Why not with all the positives. Great price – inexpensive. Huge mistake – HUGE. When they arrived, they were horrible. My sparring partner couldn’t use them properly. They were uncomfortable, hard as rocks, no proper wrist support and because of their lack of flexibility almost broke my sparring buddies elbows.

It was a purchase I regretted but had no one to blame but myself. The focus mitts were a “bargain” I thought. Like they say though, you get what you pay for sometimes.

Then there are those other times where like magic you find quality and a decent price. You find VALUE.

This is the middle ground area. This used to be what a lot of companies offered their customers – value. Not “what’s the cheapest manufacturing cost” but “what’s the best value we can give to our customers, at a great price, and superior quality?”

Knowing the value of something is much different than knowing the price – guess that explains why I never was any good at that game “The Price is Right.”

When you start talking value, great value, you start seeing things a bit differently.

This means across the board. Materialistic items, experiences, relationships, and even thoughts.

It’s good to be rather selective of what you buy. Activities you partake in. People you associate with. Thoughts you think.

By taking the time to be selective, you’ll soon start realizing the difference between the amount of things you have, people you know, experiences you engage in, and thoughts you think, and the quality, the VALUE in each one of those things.

You’ll think twice before buying those pair of mass produced shoes – and realize you can contribute back to your community by buying from your local shoe maker for the same price.

You’ll think twice before getting into certain relationships – platonic or romantic – and analyze whether or not that particular person has the same outlook on life (negative/positive) as you or not.

You’ll think twice before engaging in certain activities – and think to yourself how that specific activity has an impact in your life.

Everything you do will become a conscious action, and in turn you’ll genuinely be giving yourself the quality lifestyle you’ve always talked about – instead of just listening to the dictations of society.

You’ll understand that it’s not just quality vs. quantity, but value as well.

As always…

Stay awesome. 😉

– Rego

Musings Episode 48: Quality vs. Quantity is a post from and appeared first on Rego’s Life

For The Weekenders: The Casual Travel Bar 101…

February 20, 2014 by Rego

Alright so finally following up from “For The Weekenders: The Classic Travel Bar 101,” here’s another list of some pretty epic (and discreet) travel bar essentials I like to have handy when I’m looking for a more casual feel. These are great for when you’re at the beach, on a plane, backpacking, or road trips across [insert preferred country here]. Discreet and compact enough to be carried anywhere with you, and unique enough to be the perfect conversation starter, these are must haves for anyone who has a love for all things awesome. Enjoy.

1. Let’s start things off simple. Let’s mix a little bit of casual with classic.

So let’s say you’re out and about at some place in the states. As is the rule of thumb for many places that serve alcohol in America, taking your alcohol outside (even if it’s on the side exit of the building) is strictly prohibited. Public drinking in general really, is pretty taboo out there, while in other countries the laws are a little more loose.

Or let’s just say the cops know how to turn a blind eye. Your choice.

So what do you do when you feel like a quick swig? You pack a flask, naturally.

But let’s be honest – the average size flask isn’t very discreet, and unless you plan on getting sloshed during your transition from one bar, lounge, or club to the next, it doesn’t really make sense to carry out that much liquor anyway. Regular sized flask can be bulky. Obvious. And when you think about it, they were originally intended for inner coat pockets – back when drinking in public was a little more…acceptable.

So here’s something a touch more discreet.

Yeah. You’re welcome. The Izola Private Reserve 3oz Flask is the epitome of discreet. Izola’s flasks in general come in 3 or 5 oz. sizes, but what I like about this one is its aesthetic appeal. “Private Reserve” is just one of the engravings offered on this little 3 oz. flask, so each one can be a unique conversation starter.

It fits in your pocket perfectly without any bulge and if you’re ever throwing back your head in public for a swig nobody will really notice what the hell you’re doing as it fits easily in the palm of your hand. *Shrugs* if anything, people may think you’re taking meds. Take meds and no one bats an eye. Drink in public and (sometimes) all hell may just break loose.

2. Sandals – More Awesome Than You Think. Seriously. Years back I used to be sandals averse…until I saw the light. What is this light I speak of, you ask? Well. First there was the sandal that was drinking ninja level 99 – the Reef Dram. That was tragically discontinued…and from there I pledged that I wouldn’t put on another open toe piece of footwear until I found another sandal that met my thirsty needs.

Then shortly after I found the Reef Fanning and a new era was born. An era where I proudly strutted around public in sandals, outside of my “slumming it” days. Yes, it was a time where polos, walker shorts, and sandals were very much the order of the day.

Why? Because when you need a bottle opener at a party, you NEED a bottle opener. Sure, you can use the old “hang on watch this” trick and risk either chipping your tooth every time or chiseling a piece of someone’s kitchen counter top off, and maybe even using that disposable lighter as a bottle opener is a nice party trick. Key chain bottle openers work too.

But let’s say you don’t wanna chip your tooth. Or someone’s kitchen counter. Or maybe you prefer refillable lighters instead of disposable. Or maybe you don’t feel like something so bulky on your key ring. What do you do then? Let’s put it in a different scenario…

Someone to your liking just so happens to grab a beer or cider from a nearby cooler but oh no – no bottle opener. Your next move? Ever so casually grab that girl’s/guy’s bottle (they’re made for both men and women – the sandal, that is) from them without uttering a word. Pop off the cap in silence. Then turn around and begin to walk off casually. In 3…2…1, prepare to hear a “hey! Wait! That’s so cool – how’d you do that?”

Turn around slowly and smile, while you shuffle back casually saying, “Well…”

Congratulations. You’ve just learned a new party trick.

3. Save The Best For Last. What’s bulky, holds all your money, and something that goes everywhere with you?

Hopefully not your wife.

Hopefully not your husband either. (Because ladies, if your guy has man boobs. He is not a man. Get him a bra. Or a gym membership. Guys – start looking like Daniel Craig. Like, NOW).

But I’m not here to talk about marital issues. Nope. Hopefully most of you answered “wallet” to that question. If you’re wondering how on earth wallets correlate with discreet travel bar essentials (besides buying them, of course), honestly – they have everything to do with them. This one’s purely for the most organized, forward thinking, and discreet among us.

The Credit Card Size Bottle Opener is the PERFECT gift for avid party goers and globe trekkers. Because you need something to open your beer when it’s -4 celsius. Not all weather is fair for sandals. I love this bottle opener because it’s very easy for me to travel with. If there’s one thing you learn after traveling enough it’s the key ring rule – only take whatever keys are vital to you on a trip (House. Car. Gun cabinet. You know, the usual.).

You don’t want to be somewhere in Europe/Asia tagging all your keys with you everywhere – and getting them out to open a bottle is pretty dumb – that’s like getting out your passport to use it as a coaster. Nope, you want something simple, easy to carry, and if anything so thin it slides into your pocket with you not even realizing it’s there. At only 1.5 mm thick making it easy to fit in your wallet (or by itself), and pure stainless steel, this is one accessory I think everyone should have.

Jack Threads has one that’s even cooler than the one above, but hurry, because the sale ends soon.

Sometimes, it’s the little things in life that count. 😉

As always…

Stay awesome.

– Rego

For The Weekenders: The Casual Travel Bar 101… is a post from and first appeared on Rego’s Life

“I realized that…

February 19, 2014 by Rego

Musings: Quote Wednesdays…

Just a little mid-week inspiration… 😉

As always…

Stay awesome.

– Rego

Musings Episode 47: Drugs…

February 16, 2014 by Rego

Yeah….we’re gonna go there today.

While there are a lot of “highs” you can get in life – from extreme sports, to drinking (which, technically is also a drug), to exercise, to driving – one in particular is something that’s constantly in the news, on the internet, and on TV. There have been entire television shows (Breaking Bad or Weeds anyone?) made about it – drugs.

While I’m one for a drink every now and then, one thing I won’t touch are drugs.

Hang on – this isn’t gonna be some rant or lashing about “drugs are bad, you’re going to hell, blah blah blah,” no. I’d just like to share my opinion (and have you share yours by commenting/sharing below) on drugs.

Marijuana‘s slowly getting legalized – congrats to all those who were rooting for it.

While I don’t give a rats arse either way, I am curious about one thing – why do it? Drugs I mean – not zeroing in on one specific narcotic directly.

I know, this is a touchy subject, but there are times when I meet people in my life and they ask “so do you wanna get high?”

…and this has included people who are both well off and not-so-well off alike.

The responses are usually “are you serious? EVERYONE gets high these days!” or “oh…you’re not into that – alright well…what I mean do you just not like it or…?”

Or my favorite “OOH damn, alright. I won’t say anything more.”

The curious look on their faces when I say “no thanks, I’m not into that stuff” is a look as if I’ve been living under a rock…

…and maybe I have been living under one in that aspect. But I like it under my little drug-free rock, if that’s what you’d like to call it…and find my solace in other things – travel, experiences, hookah, and yes, the occasional nightcap. I’ve even tried Kava at one point – though I’d say that just “cleanses” the stomach more than anything (vomit alert in 3…2…). There may have been once where in my travels I journeyed to Amsterdam and “gave it a go” – but it just wasn’t my thing.

I don’t care if other people do drugs – that’s their deal, I’m not going to shove a lecture down their throat. To each their own, this is why humans are given free will.

Enough of the back story though. What I really want to discuss is – why? Why do it? If you do it now and there are some reasons why, comment below letting me know.

More importantly, albeit things like pot being legalized in certain countries and states, when it isn’t legal why stick your neck out for it?

If you’ve studied psychology, one reason can be that usually what is inaccessible and restricted, is in return more desirable and sought after. So there’s one possibility.

But even getting hooked on pharmaceutical drugs (the biggest seller in the USA) has to be questioned.

The other possibility is according to science it enhances certain feelings and “unlocks” certain parts of the brain.

Another still could be people may just plain like that way drugs feel.

That’s not what irks me. What irks me is the addiction side of it. Addictions in general irk me – they show a sign of weakness and a belief a person has of themselves that they are unable to control certain aspects of him or herself – meaning they have given away a certain part of their free will voluntarily. I’m not just talking about drugs here either.

Drug addictions, alcohol addictions, shopping addictions, smoking addictions, the list could go on forever.

In my opinion addictions don’t exist but are in fact illusions and laziness on the person’s part in taking the time to control their thoughts, because quite honestly, there are literally hundreds if not thousands of ways to acquire the good FEELING in life.

Feel free to agree to disagree with me.

By controlling your thoughts you can control your feelings, thus controlling your mood. One must find happiness within themselves before they truly know the meaning of it. The minute you understand this, is the minute you no longer look to outside sources to be in that constant state of “feel good” – and instead those outside sources just become an awesome accessory or enhancer.

Travel becomes more fun.

The simplest things you take appreciation in.

Hell, even just getting up in the morning and making coffee can turn enjoyable. It starts within, then exudes outward.

This is why I ask why do drugs. While many have told me they take you to another place or lower your inhibitions (alcohol can do the same thing), or even allow someone to see things differently, they can also separate two things – spirit from body. No, I’m not talking about death, so chill out.

I’m talking about disallowing your spirit to “drive” or interact with your body at full functionality. Basically lose control – the good kind of control. It’s the same way drinking too much can allow you to do that.

Why would someone want to cause that separation? Why would someone want to “escape” the very temple they’ve been given to guard and take care of?

More importantly, why risk it all for a high? Risking it all could mean for both the people in financially well off positions and not so well off positions.

Anyone remember Michael Vick? Former Atlanta Falcons quarterback? SNL did a “Really” section on him some years back…

While he wasn’t arrested for the incident and police claim no real evidence was found regarding the incident at the airport, though later in his career was charged with dog fighting and tested positive for drug use.

Now hang on – I’m not bashing anyone here but serious question – why fuck everything up when you’ve got good money in the bank? I could’ve given any example but I wanted one that has impact and a clear point of logic.

Why, with all that cash, would you A) potentially try to smuggle your stash in a plane when you have enough money to buy more and B) do crazy shit like dog fighting?

Why fuck up a lifestyle that you made for yourself at all? All that money could buy or allow you to experience so much more in life. Doing that type of stuff is completely counter intuitive and backwards.

While many aspiring football players would figuratively kill for Vick’s previous fame and fortune, the guy showed complete lack of appreciation for the accomplishments and success he had gained…and for what? There’s so much more he could’ve constructively accomplished.

This just goes to show that the mentality, the thought process was already within him. His way of thinking was there, even if subconsciously, the whole time. He chose to accept it.

This is what I mean when I say many still look for an outside experience to acquire that good feeling.

I’m not taking a shot at the financially successful either – the same goes for people who aren’t so well off and blow all their money on alcohol or drugs, then complain about how they’re always broke.

Why man?

That’s just dropping the ball on maintaining a steady lifestyle.

…and saying someone does it to get away from the stresses of life or hardships is a blatant cop-out. Don’t like your life? Change it.

People don’t change because they’re under any sort of threat or duress. They change because they see something that shows them their life is valuable and deserving enough to move forward and create a life that’s really worth living.

The same way people change their lives to accommodate the expense of drugs, alcohol, or even pharmaceutical addiction, is the same way they can change their lives to accommodate the expense of thinking up, creating, and investing in a better life of meeting new people, seeing new places, taking part in new (sober) activities – could even be painting or some shit.

Maybe this is what stems overdoses, chasing after that good feeling. I don’t know…but I do know that there are many more things to get high on. You shouldn’t have to chase. You can get high on life, if you know how to align your thoughts a certain way. The main thing is, you’re ALIVE, man.

So many people take that for granted. Living. Breathing. Seeing. Hearing. Tasting. Being warm. Eating. Driving. Being able to exercise. Being educated. Playing on a team. Having hot water. Having proper sewage systems. Having A/C. Going to restaurants. Having a passport. Having clean drinking water. Having quality clothing on your back. Having decent shoes.

…and you choose to get high???

There’s so much to be thankful for in everyday life, yet many don’t even really think of it because it’s always been there. Many don’t get high on LIFE, because they take it for granted.

Funnily enough, one of my many favorite movies is Scarface.

Not because the guy rose to the top due of blood money and drugs. In fact it pissed me off when he touched what he sold. But I like the film because of one thing the character believed in…

All you’ve gotta do is realize it, then get to work on creating your own life.

Happiness doesn’t come from external sources – external sources are mere enhancers. Experiences are momentary and memorable. Happiness starts within – and no, I don’t believe that bullshit mantra of being happy and poor. It’s a fucking sin in my book.

I also don’t believe that bullshit mantra of praying/hoping/wishing for something yet taking no action towards acquiring it. The 1%ers you see today did not sit around waiting for their fortune to plop into their lap…they went after it, and made sure to not destroy it once acquiring it.

There is something that Emo Phillips also said but credit has been given to Al Pacino. That’s not the point though. The point is the meaning you can draw from it.

…he wasn’t saying go out and steal, but instead go after what you want. Don’t get distracted by all the bullshit. Why? Because…

The world is yours.

As always…

Stay awesome.

– Rego

Musings Episode 47: Drugs… is a post from and first appeared on Rego’s Life

For The Weekenders: Valentine’s Day Ideas – Rego Style.

February 13, 2014 by Rego

Valentine’s Day: A day that represents love, love of money, flighty holiday flings, and commercialism. Basically just a whole lot of definitions. Usually, there’s about 3 kinds of people up and about on this day – the lovers, the players, and the anti-valentiners (yes, I just invented a word.). Figured I’d put a spin on this For The Weekenders, and share with all three of those categories some excellent Valentine’s Day ideas – whether you love it, loathe it, or just plain don’t care about it. Enjoy. 😉

Valentine’s Day Ideas. Rego Style.

For The Anti-Valentiner. I remember one of my anti-Valentine years. It was the year Chinese New Year fell on the same date (take a guess). A handful of my friends and I were single that year, and we decided to rock it unconventional. Before Valentine’s Night began (and things got…crazy) I hit the town during the day with a friend of mine, and we decided to go for Chinese buffet – in celebration of Chinese New Year, and a big fuck you to Valentine’s Day.

It went alright.

Besides the stares.

In retrospect, I now understand why there were so many older dudes looking on with mouths agape…considering we were in a restaurant. Eating family style. Sharing food. An interesting day indeed.

To avoid any friendly outings turning into *ahem* “misunderstandings,” I recommend bringing two or three friends to this next place I’m going to suggest. Which is also a place that both houses and serves my second two favorite things – donuts and alcohol. Everyone loves donuts. My first? Gummie bears and alcohol. Side note – is it gummy bears, or gummie bears? I’ve lost track over the years… Anyway, cue Glazed Donut Bistro. Donuts for Grown-ups – which is conveniently their slogan.

What can I say about this place – it’s awesome.

Their menu? One of a kind.

Their donuts? Artisan quality – no, scratch that – Artisan. If you’re on the road to fitness cover your eyes – food porn alert in 3..2…

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Yeah. Three I recommend? Bourbon Pecan Pie, Tres Tres Leches, and S’more Please.

As for their alcohol options…heaven sent. So this is my suggestion:

For starters, order up the 24 donut hole special with 6 sauces – y’know. to get the palette ready. Wash that down with a bit of Almond Iced Coffee or Craft Hot Chocolate. Savor this while waiting for the main course…

Fried Chicken Beignets; lightly sweetened boneless (win) chicken with a maple dip. Salty and savory in one explosive flavor. Proceed to then cleanse that from the palette with your choice of red or white wine – or if you’re really feeling fancy, some Dom Perignon, then bask in that bliss for about 5-10 minutes.

It’s not over yet.

Proceed to dessert – because now’s the time to ready that half full stomach of yours with various donuts of your choice – shoot for the Cherry Amaretto and a dessert wine, if it suits your fancy. After all – it’s anti-Valentine’s Day – you have a right to be anti-something-healthy. Ask for the check with pride and strut out not entirely sober and readying yourself for the dentist next week.

For The Lovers. For those of you who aren’t anti-Valentine’s Day this year, you’re probably going to want to pull away from the norm of things. You know – chocolates. Typical dinner at that favorite place your S.O. always likes. Heart shaped balloons or dust collecting animals. *shrugs* Meh. Typical. Could be better. Could be worse.

Let’s shoot for better though. Here’s a way to look adventurous without suggesting sky diving and champagne. Unless you’re into that. In which case by all means – go for it. If not, how about making this Valentine’s Day….intimate.

The place? The Place.

No that…that’s the name of the restaurant. The Place. Christ. Keep up.

All jokes aside though – unless you purely suck at the art of seduction, you seriously can’t go wrong here. It’s a great spot to go when things are getting serious, when things already are serious, and when you want to try your hand at things getting serious.

Unlike most sterile looking “hot spot romantic restaurants” it has an aesthetic appeal that pulls you in, during any time of the day – but especially at night – and is sure to make both you and your S.O. feel like you’re in a world all your own.

Plus they’ve got great wine. *nods* if all else fails, wine prevails. The food menu is diverse enough where you can choose to eat light, or if you and your S.O. have been in it for the long haul these past [insert any number greater than 2] years you can both stuff your faces.

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Although to be fair…I’ve always been pro-stuffed face. Either with food or alcohol

The best part? It’s all organic. Meaning a truly different and non-run-of-the-mill dining experience. I recommend making a reservation now, in case you’re still running around trying to figure something out last minute.

Life lesson: Never leave things last minute when it comes to things in relationships. Apparently a Hershey’s Bar and Valentine’s Day meme is not considered funny. Plus….no one wants to be this person:

For The Players. It’s a New Year. Meaning it’s time for a new kind of fun. Living the single life has many glorious, un-punishable benefits – like, I don’t know, not having to “remember” to tell your S.O. that you’re having a night out on the town with friends.

You answer to no one. You needn’t worry about pleasing anyone. You do whatever you want, when you want, how you want.

It’s basically awesome. Plus – it has the obvious financial benefits.

Though this Valentine’s Day, if you really wanna treat yourself to something special, you may not be saving all that much money…but the experience ahead? Well worth it.

I won’t lie – I like awesome experiences. And traveling. And more awesome experiences. And great, tucked away, hidden spots that no one else knows about. And awesome experiences. And crazy unique parties.

But mostly awesome experiences. On which note I’d like to say Miami never ceases to deliver. The place? E11even Miami. A place where you can safely order drinks that are on fire, without being ridiculed (Cocktail Factory memories.). It also reminds me of Ageha.

If Dionysis (Greek God) started a Nightclub, he would’ve named it this.

What makes E11even Miami so special? Oh you know, nothing to big, except it’s open 24/7. Literally. As in, it never closes.

What is E11even Miami? Well…

Let the video speak for itself. During the day it’s a day club – bars, cool mechanical roofs, unique food, a very loungesque (yes, I invented another word) feel to it. You can eat. Drink. Zone out with the big TVs. Be merry.

During the evening? Wear your high roller outfit – you’re about to step into another world. Think DJs and center stage what looks to be hydraulic platforms, cabaret girls and contortionists twirling around on something similar to your last penthouse’s drapes. You can drink. Zone out with good music. Be on Mary (see what I did there? Yeah.)

The place is massive – 25,000 square feet massive. They don’t just serve you drinks, but put on a show while they’re at it. This is a place you want to go to really enjoy.

Is there beauty? Yes.

Is there a certain vibe of exoticism? Yes.

Is there near borderline nudity? Find out for yourself.

I recommend bringing a few friends along – unless you really want to fly solo…but really, this place is so massive your group can split, fly solo, then meet up again if you get bored. Which I highly doubt you will but still – it pays to have figurative insurance policy.

The main thing here is this is one experience you don’t want to pass up, if you’re currently rocking the single life. I’m all about aesthetics…and why shouldn’t I be? There’s so much beauty and sexiness in this world it deserves to be admired. Come to E11even Miami and you’ll get just that.

Sometimes it’s nice to slow down and really enjoy the moment.

As always…

Stay awesome.

– Rego

For The Weekenders: Valentine’s Day Ideas – Rego Style. is a post from and appeared first on Rego’s Life

“When you believe…

February 12, 2014 by Rego

Musings: Quote Wednesdays…

A little mid-week inspiration. If you’re day after day doing something you believe in, whether it’s a sport, you’re business, a project, a piece of art, photography, or a new invention…believe in it 100% – and when you feel like quitting, remember why you started.

Believing in something partially, or doubting it, will only set you back tremendously. Start believing in yourself, and you can start believing in what you’re doing at any given moment – without fear, without hesitation, and without doubt.

As always…

Stay awesome.

– Rego

P.S. Quick side note – I’m gonna be posting a special today – a little Valentine’s “surprise” for this week only – fill out this form and start following my official site and get 20% off kick starting your online business with any one of the Silver, Gold, or Platinum website creation packages I offer, plus a free course on how to monetize your site efficiently. New and more innovative stuff coming up in the shop real soon…look out for it by the end of this week. 😉

Musings Episode 46: The Art of Discipline…

February 9, 2014 by Rego

A few episodic musings back I talked on and shared thoughts about strength training and how it’s not just a physical thing, but a mental one too.

I’d like to elaborate a bit more on that and discuss the additional benefits of the disciplinary aspect.

There’s a great audio I’ve been listening to by Abraham Hicks this past week and I must say, it really addresses the subject of human beings and how we deserve the life we desire.

The problem is so many people are caught up on their current realities they don’t take the time and effort to think up and really work towards getting a “new reality.” Many lack the mental discipline.

While Abraham notates on a consistent basis it’s not about “making” anything happen or “ramming” things into place, they do make clear that in order to change your current (or any given) situation, you absolutely MUST take control of your thoughts – albeit many people think they have no control over such things, and that in fact their thoughts can control them.

Truth is, people DO have control over their thoughts, contrary to what society teaches. It just takes a bit of will power.

The same way someone wants their business to succeed is the same way you should have a desire to have control over your thoughts…because thoughts can be dangerous.

They can trigger emotion, and if focused on too long can turn your entire day upside down. This is what makes movies, television shows, and songs so powerful. It’s a thought one can relate to that evokes an emotion…sometimes this can be used for good, like a good comedy or action film…and other times it can just clutter your mind with junk, like horror films (sorry horror movie enthusiasts).

The same way I question why people focus on negativity, is the same way I question why people would possibly want to take things in their ear and eye gates that leave them with nothing but negative feelings, including but not limited to fear, paranoia, sadness, anger, loneliness, etc…the list continues.

If it’s something that doesn’t help you in adding to that good feeling vibe or positive state of mind, it’s a waste of time and not helping you in any way.

The key to changing your current reality is discipline in the sense that you have to make it your business to keep yourself on a “high flying disc,” and shy away from negativity. Things like arguments, work gossip, and idle talk are huge distractions, and only accomplish one thing – setting your mental state out of whack and getting your mind off more important things.

Focusing on negativity only breeds more negativity, the same way hate breeds hate and talking about sickness attracts sickness.

Everyday, you want to make the conscious decision to engage as much as possible in things that make YOU feel good. It could be listening to a song you like, reading a good book, seeing a good movie, or interacting with other people who exude that positive vibe you’re constantly after.

The same way it’s not your job to save the world, it’s not your job to make everyone else happy. You can be considerate and caring for your fellow man/woman, but you must still make it a priority to be in pursuit of your own happiness as well.

Will Smith‘s movie “The Pursuit of Happyness” portrays this perfectly, as throughout the film you constantly see Smith’s character doing his utmost to keep himself from going into a state of panic and dismay in his given situation.

It starts with a thought. Then that thought leads to a feeling…and that feeling leads to an action. Pick which thoughts you want to think and you can pick which feelings you want to have. Pick which feelings you want to feel and you can pick which actions you want to take. Pick which actions you want to take and you can start turning your current “NOW” into whatever you will it to be.

This is why they say thoughts are like seeds.

Depending on how much you water them, they can grow or they can wilter and die. Choose which thoughts you want to grow – and your success will grow in direct and parallel fashion.

All it takes is discipline. The same way you discipline yourself to get up and go to that job everyday. Or take care of those kids you have. Or pay those bills you have. If you can do this for everyday actions, why not do this for everyday thoughts – which in fact control your everyday actions? Food for thought…

As always…

Stay awesome.

– Rego

Musings Episode 46: The Art of Discipline… is a post from and appeared first on Rego’s Life

For The Weekenders: The Classic Travel Bar 101…

February 6, 2014 by Rego

Writing last week’s post on some great spots to visit got me thinking…in the past I’ve shared other great tips and ideas such as travel essentials…but there’s one essential I forgot to mention.

Picture this:

You’re leaving the airport and grab a cab/take the metro/hire a car to reach your place of stay. Could be a hotel, home stay, or perhaps a small flat you’re renting out for the next few weeks. You get everything unpacked, then decide to take a walk around town, maybe wind down with some of the local spirits. You pick up a small bottle of local spirits you’ve never tried before and grab some mixers to go with it. Everything’s all fine and good, until you get back to your place. Then it hits you –

…you have no real way to create a proper drink. Depending on what kind of accommodation you picked, you may not even have the proper glassware to make yourself a decent drink. Not to mention, the place you traveled to may not exactly have ice you can trust to chill said drink.

What now?

….cue this For The Weekenders post. I’m going to share with you the travel bar essentials I take with me on every trip. They’re useful for if you want to feel like bringing a small part of your home bar with you – and they take up just about as much space as a pair of trousers does in your carry on. I’ll start with the “classic” items for this For The Weekenders, and in a follow-up posts share with you more “casual” travel bar essentials that are great for the beach or when you’re backpacking. Check out the photos below each item – they’re actual shots of my personal collection. Pretty soon I’ll be adding this entire kit as a regular item to the shop for sale. Look out for it…and enjoy.

1. The Travel Bar Set by Mundi Westport Group. – There’s travel bar sets, then there’s travel bar sets. While there are many sets out there that feature much more storage space, the key here is you want to keep things compact. Discreet. Simple. The Travel Bar Set by Mundi Westport Group helps you accomplish just that. It’s perfect for two (or one), and comes with a slender zippered carrying case, 3 storage pockets for your choice of travel size spirits, waiter’s corkscrew, 2 compact (collapsible) tumblers, one stirrer, and a pair of ice/olive tongs.

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I like it because it’s discreet enough to pass through customs and none of the objects can be deemed “sharp” for when I’m traveling through more Western countries. The tumblers are great, they expand and retract with ease and are easy to clean, just be sure to dry them off, and you’ve gotta give a gentle but firm “tug and twist” when expanding them – once you do though your drink is good to go with no risk of spillage. The key is to not throw it around like melamine dishware – the same way you wouldn’t throw around your better lowball glasses.

2. What Good is a Travel Bar Set Without a Cocktail Shaker? – Is what one of my friends asked me a while back when I bought this. Getting a proper cocktail shaker is an easy fix – I’ve had a single serve one from Oggi for about 6 years now, meaning it is old as fuck and a little bruised and battered…but it still hasn’t let me down. 18/8 stainless steel with a kind of soft rubber grip exterior and a rubber seal on the inside of the top, it’s excellent for when you need that drink shaken, not stirred. The one in the link above doesn’t have the soft grip exterior, but if you can find it, I highly recommend it.

This thing has ZERO spillage, and in fact it seals so well it occasionally becomes a task getting both the top and strainer off…but if you’re looking to get an ICE COLD shaken drink without freezing your fingers off, try finding the one with the soft grip exterior.

3. Even With All That, You Can’t Forget the Ice. – Lastly, the solution to all your ice problems. You’ve got two choices here – stainless steel or soapstone? That’s right, I’m talking about whiskey rocks. When it comes to keeping your drinks cool, it really boils down to (pun intended) just how cold you want them. If you’re like me and prefer to actually taste your drink, go with soapstone whiskey cubes. If you like your drinks a bit cooler, go with stainless steel whiskey cubes.

Wait…whiskey what? Yeah, some people aren’t familiar with these bad boys…now’s the time to get acquainted. The process is simple – wash off your new set THOROUGHLY, taking care not to use any harsh soap (so it doesn’t get absorbed) and dry accordingly. Pop them in the freezer for a few hours (I keep mine in the freezer all the time), drop them into your glass (or retractable tumbler in this case, I recommend just 1 or 2 for the tumbler), and that’s it. Your drink can stay cool without the need of ice or the inconvenience of ice drowning it.

Word of advice: If you’re going to use these rocks in the cocktail shaker, make sure you ONLY use the stainless steel type.

I’d hate to see a good drink wasted on account of chipped soapstone.

Plus I’d feel pretty bad for the soapstone in general.

As always…

Stay Awesome.

– Rego

For The Weekenders: The Classic Travel Bar 101… is a post from and first appeared on Rego’s Life

Rego's Life

Episodic Musings of a Quintessential Entrepreneur

Monthly Archives: February 2014

For The Weekenders: Comfort Food Prescriptions, Glass House Dining, Whiskey Delivery

“You can’t give…

Musings Episode 48: Quality vs. Quantity

For The Weekenders: The Casual Travel Bar 101…

“I realized that…

Musings Episode 47: Drugs…

Yeah….we’re gonna go there today.

The world is yours.

For The Weekenders: Valentine’s Day Ideas – Rego Style.

Valentine’s Day Ideas. Rego Style.

“When you believe…

Musings Episode 46: The Art of Discipline…

For The Weekenders: The Classic Travel Bar 101…

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