Haute Holidays Happenings

With days off around the holidays, how are you going to pass time in the winter wonderland? Here are some suggestions to get pampered, enjoy time with your loved ones, sip and share some cheer.

Miracle on Walton: Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh Facial

This whimsical take on timeless holiday ingredients combines cleansing, toning, exfoliating and massage.  A 24-karat-gold mask is applied to firm and illuminate the skin. The facial is followed with an exfoliating hand and foot treatment, utilizing a warm Frankincense scrub and Myrrh essential oils.The Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh Facial is 90 minutes and is $250, offered through December 31, 2010.

ELYSIAN, 11 E. Walton. 708.204.9031. www.elysianhotels.com

Quartino Wine Bash 2010 All-Stars

Now in its third year, Quartino continues its wildly successful Monthly Wine Bash on the last Wednesday of every month showcasing wine from a particular region or style.  The evening includes tastings paired with menu samplings like Quartino’s Signature Pizza, Italian Meats and Cheeses and more. The December All-Stars edition brings 2010 to a close with an array of wines celebrating the best selections include reds, whites, rosés and sparklings from all over the world and are paired with festive bites by Quartino Executive Chef John Coletta.

Quartino Ristorante, Pizzeria & Wine Bar. 626 N. State. 312.698.5000. www.quartinochicago.com

KOI Winter Wonderland Frozen Martini Class

Koi’s Martini Team will lead this special class on frozen wintery martinis as participants will learn to make some of Koi’s signature frozen martinis along with some special new creations perfect for this frigid season.  Participants will learn while enjoying samples and hors d’oeuvres. Martinis to be featured include Frozen Mango-tini, Icy Strawberry, Raspberry, Peach, Frozen Godiva Martini and “Students’ Choice.”

KOI. 624 Davis Street, Evanston, 60201. 847.866.6969.  www.koievanston.com

Holiday Cocktails and Candy Cane Cocoa
deca bar makes spirits warm and bright with a festive menu of seasonal sippings – perfect for pairing with delicious appetizers such as fresh oysters which are available this season 10 for $10. Holiday cocktails, available now through the January 1, 2011, are $14 and include:

deca the Halls Bombay Sapphire, Lemon Juice, St. German Liqueur, Orange Juice, Blood Orange Puree
Mistletoe Mojito Bacardi Superior Rum, Fresh Apple, Fresh Pear, Mint leaves, Lime Juice
Ginger Spice  Bacardi Lemon, Ginger Liqueur, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup
Vinter’s Wonderland Martini Grey Goose Pear, St. German Liqueur, White Grape Juice, Lemon Juice
Cool Yule Ketel One Orange, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup, Orange Juice, Peppermint Schnapps
Frost Bite Martini Grey Goose Vodka, Crème de Cocoa White, Peppermint Schnapps, Cream, Served in a candy cane rimmed Martini glass
Caramel Crème  Grey Goose, Baileys, Butterscotch
Scrooge Scotch Dewars Scotch, Lemon juice, Grenadine

Candy Cane Cocoa- Executive Pastry Chef Eric Estrella combines mint flavors with rich decadent hot chocolate and homemade peppermint marshmallows for a refreshing and warm seasonal treat. Available now through the winter season.

deca, The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, a Four Seasons Hotel. 120 E. Delaware Pl. 312.573.5160. www.decarestaurant.com/