Jelynne's Journal

Entrepreneurship Class with Jelynne

2010-08-11T05:11:36Z

Saturday, August 21st
Location: LITM, Jersey City
Time: 12p-2:30p
Cost of Class: $97 per student

You may be waiting until the economy improves to start your ownbusiness, or until you have enough money or when you have years ofexperience. But if you have, at this moment, the desire to have yourown business then you have a way to make it happen.

I understand the apprehension, especially when everything around usis telling us not to do anything. When I started pursuing myrestaurant, we were going through the internet bubble recession. But Iwas so focused on having my own place that the economy didn't affect mydecision. What did touch me was the aftereffect of 9/11, and the needwe had to stay close to home.

Right now, there is an opportunity for your business to succeed inthese economic conditions. With tremendous and sudden change, comesopportunity. Your business is not a pipe dream, some frivolous ideathat won't really get anywhere. Someone needs your product orservice. Or just needs to see you step up and go after your dream toinspire him to do the same.

I invite you to start where you are and take action regardless ofyour circumstance. One day last week, I thought to myself that Ishould hold another entrepreneurship class before back to school kicksin. That same day hours later, a young chef asked me if I was going tooffer an entrepreneurship class any time soon. Your business ideaworks the same way. Someone needs it, is searching for it and waitingfor you to show up in his life. And it doesn't matter what it is- itcould be a hot dog stand with a twist or a handmade scarf or a picture- you are going to bring joy to someone's life by being there.

On Saturday, Aug 21st, I'm having an entrepreneurship class that'llget your engine started. We'll map out ways to get you started RIGHTNOW, answer your questions about starting a business, confront thefears that may get in the way (which are the same fears we allencounter ), get a business plan going and have fun fun fun doing it!!

A DJ will be playing music to help you get in the mood, food willbe served to help keep your focus and a cocktail for the heck of it.

Only advanced ticket purchase is available as I need to know howmany students to prepare for. The ticket is $97 per student and withit you'll get:

*A business plan started + a plan of action to follow.
*Your questions about starting a business answered - If I don'thave the answer on the spot, I'll ask everyone I know until I get it.
*One-on-one time with me during the class and a private follow up session with me after the class
*Music, hors d'oeuvre + a free drink ticket

PLUS.... a FREE copy of my book - Restaurant from Scratch - that isofficially being released on September 1st. (This book was supposed tocome out last fall, but I got in my own way for months. I'll share thestory in class as it relates to us all.) It's a motivational how-tobook on starting and growing your own successful restaurant or businesssince the principles are the same.

Reserve now. Your business is waiting to happen.

Jelynne Jardiniano

Watermelon-inspired menu this week

2010-07-27T09:45:00Z

Watermelon is my all-time favorite fruit dating back when I was toddler screaming for my dad to buy it for me in the market, so the story goes. This week we're having a special watermelon-inspired menu of cocktails and dinner.

Starts TODAY, Tues July. 27th and Ends Sat, July 31st

$30 Three Course Watermelon-Inspired Dinner
by Exec Chef Alexander Diaz
Royalty Rewards Members receive $5 off- show card to server

Appetizer

Pan seared crab cake with sauteed spinach + honey dew vinaigrette

Entree

Blackened ahi tuna ,grilled asparagus ,rosemary potato + watermelon pico de gallo

Dessert

Seasonal watermelon soup and salad infused with lemongrass & whipped cream

The sugar babies and yellow watermelons from NJ's Stony Hill Farms. They're
at the Grove St Farmers Market every Monday + Thursday.

Red + Yellow Watermelon-Inspired Cocktails
by head bartender Andrea Morin

$10 each
Royalty Rewards Members receive $2 off - show card to server

Watermelonade - vodka, watermelon puree + lemonade
Melonberry - stoli blue, fresh watermelon + cranberry juice
Melontini - lemon vodka, st germaine, fresh yellow watermelon
Razmelontini - vodka, raspberry liqueur, fresh watermeon puree

Reservations taken, email info@litm.com or call 201-536-5557 after 3:30pm

Lifetime Channel honors Jelynne Jardiniano as Remarkable Woman

2010-07-04T19:20:00Z

Jelynne Jardiniano
July 2, 2010

Jelynne Jardiniano; Entrepreneur
Hometown: Jersey City, NJ
Education: Cornell University
Age: 31

Jelynne was born in Manila, Philippines, and in 1984 moved with her family to the United States to make Jersey City, NJ, their hometown. She went on to Cornell University with her sights set on being a lawyer, but unhappy with her studies, Jelynne took a year off after her first year to explore other interests. She got a job as a hostess for a small seafood restaurant on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, and from that simple job came the spark for her love of restaurants. She worked for other restaurants and catering companies, working her way up as aserver. With no doubt in her mind, Jelynne went back to Cornell and switched majors to hospitality management.

Business talks by her professors and between her peers were the norm. Entrepreneurship was not only a common pursuit, but a nurtured mindset at school. From first thinking that she would become a manager of a restaurant, Jelynne changed her focus to owning her own restaurant. A year after college, she did just that.

Jelynne went back to her hometown and received a small investment from her family for her restaurant venture. In November 2003 she opened LITM , a bar and gallery that to this day hosts monthly art exhibitions by local and international artists. But her ability to grow the business was being stifled by a Jersey City ordinance that restricted bars and restaurants in the Restaurant Row district from serving alcohol past 11 pm on weekdays and midnight on weekends, while restaurants in other parts of the city were permitted to serve as late as 3 am. Jelynne set out to change that law.

Two years later, in October 2005, with over a thousand petitions in hand and a caucus-room full of supporters, Jelynne convinced the city council of Jersey City to amend the Restaurant Row restriction. Shortly after, Jelynne became an officer on the board of the Special Improvement District (SID), organization that supports local business development in downtown Jersey City. Three new restaurants opened since she changed the law, with two more opening this year.

But Jelynne still wanted to grow her bar into the restaurant she envisioned from the start, so she slowly introduced food with a café-style menu of sandwiches and salads. Within a year, she expanded the kitchen and became a full-service restaurant in 2007. Today, LITM continues to be a popular neighborhood destination that serves new American food by Executive Chef Alexander Diaz. LITM was awarded “Best Casual” restaurant in 2008 by the BEST Independent Restaurant Association.

Jelynne just completed her first book titled “Restaurant FromScratch.” The book was inspired by her patrons and friends who kept going to her for advice on starting a restaurant. Her book blends instructional how-to’s with advice on personal improvement and empowerment. It clears the excuses that get in our way of pursuing our dream and puts the focus on the resources we have within our reach. Jelynne enjoys giving classes on entrepreneurship. She actively writes about topics on restaurant startups, interviews experts in the trenches of the industry and shares it on her blog.

Jelynne is now working on multiple film projects. The first is on the current construction of two restaurants, both by different owners with opposite approaches. The documentary shows the varying yet similar challenges that someone opening a restaurant will go through. Her second film project is a food and culture travel show on horseback that highlights how people can experience more joy in their lives. Her first horseback trip was through the vineyards and beaches of Bordeaux,France. Her upcoming destination is Turkey in September 2010.

Visit Lifetime Channel site here.
Be a remarkable woman! Support United Divas in empowering women to be artistic leaders and role models.

What's next for LITM? A message to our old + new friends...

2010-07-02T08:26:00Z

{A letter that was written for our email list, but information that I'd still like to share here}

A question that you may have and one that constantly occupies mine.

From the first day we opened, what's next has been a constant question of mine. First out of necessity because we opened with what we had---if you remember our first bathroom with the red flickering light bulb-- then you know what I'm talking about. You've seen us redefine the food menu from pretzels + potato chips to the paninis and the Tokyo Express menu (remember the shrimp shumai), to Filippo's Italian, Tod's crab cakes, and now the bistro fare from Alex.

You've always been game for change from the start. It's what defines us, with the rotation in art being our true constant. Thank you for being part of it, for your enthusiasm, love and friendship that has propelled us forward. It has been a dream come true.

This November we're nearing the 7 year mark. And now that LITM has become a full-service restaurant from its humble beginning as an art bar, I can't help but to ask myself, again---what's next?

Besides getting a second bathroom (and not the secret one in the basement), I've concluded that the BIG NEXT for us is YOU!! I want to step up your experience. It's time to put the chit chat aside, and talk about what matters to you at LITM.   What do you want that you ain't getting? What are you getting that you don't want? What do you love? What do you hate? We're looking for answers and I'm calling you to get it! We're talking turkey. I've got your number, and if I don't let me know.

I'm making calls. And when it's your turn, you may be in the shower, at the gym or away on vacation. Whatever the scenario, my question is simple: what's next for LITM?

We're promoting more employees to full-time management positions. We'll have a floor manager at all times. The person in line for the position loves to serve, smile, laugh and give hugs. Sound like someone else you know here   I also have an assistant Judy, that you'll be hearing from as well. They're both Filipino--so to answer your next question--no, I didn't hire my cousins from the Philippines. But seriously...

I get comments like "It's not the same when you're not here." And whether it's because of service not being up to snuff, or you missing my goofy jokes or me laughing at yours. I don't want it to be that different if I'm not at LITM. I'll train the staff on how to laugh at anything if I have to.

Another question I get, more from hearsay than direct, is "Am I selling LITM?". The answer is we get approached by interested buyers. I never denied an inquiry. But it's never been worth the sell for me or my family. And while I bring up my family, they are the people sitting quietly in the background watching me live my dream while they wait to get paid back.

In 2013, it'll be 10 years since they gave me the green light and the green paper to open. I think, and ponder and imagine how I can set them free completely. And selling it doesn't sit well with me like an artist who can't let go of his art. But I understand the value in not being my own collector. You have to let your art go, in the hands of people who appreciate it as much as you do. My conclusion is: I want to make LITM employee-owned. There's nothing more I want to see happen at LITM than to have Andrea own a piece of it. I'm getting emotional. And if you ask me about this letter when we see each other, don't cuz you just may see the boss lady cry.

It's almost 4 am, and I think I've expressed all that I wanted to. My mind is blank and so I'll take this time to make a few announcements for LITM:

Friday, July 2
--We open @10am for the World Cup games. Brazil vs Netherlands, then Uruguay vs Ghana. Kitchen opens at 11am
--Groupon is promoting LITM gift certificates, get $30 worth for $15. It ends Sunday night.
--Lifetime Channel honors me as a "Remarkable Woman" and will air it for a week starting tomorrow. I haven't seen the short reel yet, but they have a lot of LITM pics. You may see yourself on it too.

Saturday, July 3rd
--We open again @10am for the Maradona vs Germany battle, then Paraguay vs Spain. Kitchen opens at 11am.

Tuesday, July 6th
--Robert Piersanti's Art Opening @7pm. Come get your "Pop Rocks" on!

Wednesday, July 7th
--Chocolate DAY!! Whether you like it white, milk brown or dark--baby we got your flavor.

So on that sweet note, I say thank you. I love you and have a good night and a joyous 4th of July holiday!

Yours truly,
Jelynne Jardiniano

Years ago~the memories in this place. [Photo: Beth Achenbach]

Adventures on Horseback

2010-06-29T00:13:00Z

Three years ago I decided to reserve one day a week to an activity unrelated to work. I chose horseback riding. It has been fulfilling from the start. A few weeks ago, I went on a horseback riding adventure to Bordeaux, France. And met a French cowboy who was inspired by Clint Eastwood's spaghetti westerns and even looked like him. I met chateau owners, restaurateurs, sommeliers and curators who all had one thing in common besides being French. Everyone loved what they did.

We galloped through vineyards, past chateaus, into the forest, crossed the Gironde river and headed west to the beaches of the Atlantic. The camera crew was part of it, so you will get to meet the people and see the places that have left me with a lot of joy in my heart. More details in the coming weeks. Hope you are enjoying your summer as well. And hope to see you soon. Love, Jelynne

With Oscar waiting to take the ferry that crossed the Gironde River.

Headed to our final destination, the beaches of the Atlantic. "Clint" leading the way!

Starting a Restaurant from Scratch

2010-06-14T21:58:00Z

In a few weeks, "Restaurant from Scratch" is coming out of press. It is my book that was conceived in 2007 and is now ready for reading. It was inspired from the people asking me for advice on how they too could open a restaurant or food-related business. I share how I started with a small budget and grew my business over time. It is filled with technical how-to's, but balanced with the human variables that every entrepreneur encounters. I get fired up on the topic of entrepreneurship because I feel it is the most rewarding journey someone can take. Starting and growing a business requires personal improvement and empowerment.

The time is always right to do what you love. Set aside what you assume is stopping you and give yourself a chance to pursue your dream. You don't need years of experience, you don't need your life's savings and you don't need the approval of others. Give yourself permission to express your creativity. And if you need help, this book will give you a lift.

Go to the official Restaurant from Scratch website , where you can buy the book, watch video interviews of people in the industry, read my latest posts and get up to speed on current events in the restaurant world.

World Cup 2010 @LITM!

2010-05-24T03:43:00Z

Another side of me comes out at about this time. Robert and I were watching the UEFA Cup yesterday and by the way I was yelling at those players, boy you'd think they at least listen to me. Four years ago Robert was adamant about showing the World Cup games happening that summer. World cup who? I still called the game soccer. But that was then.

On June 11th, the World Cup games in South Africa will be aired live at LITM . If you were with us four years ago, you may remember seeing Jelynne's crazy twin. But we can say the same for all you football fans. Join us and bring that other side of you. I'll be waiting! Go Italia!!!

Four year old design of the Germany games for LITM. We had t-shirt raffles, free hot dogs,
and a whole lotta fun condensed in a month! You can expect the same this time around! Go ITALIA!!

Become a member now

2010-04-19T04:20:00Z

If you're a member of our Royalty Rewards program , you would already know that my cats are on vacation. Well, at least you know Whiskey is. Sylvester is the scaredy cat of the two, but he eventually starts doing what his curious brother does. Silly has a few places he's choosing from...check your mailbox to see where he ends up!

Can you guess where Whiskey is? If you guess right, you get a free plate of
homemade pasta (guess wrong and you still get it). This is just the tip of that huge rock
of what you get as a member of our rewards club. Join today and enjoy yourself!

Get Spring started with 3D art!

2010-04-06T04:08:00Z

I first knew of Mark Finne's 3D art when the subject was floral, and that was a few years ago. Well the time has come. We're finally exhibiting his work at LITM. For the month of April, Mark will be showing his latest three dimensional abstract paintings that were inspired by skydiving and scuba diving. So if you want to have an excuse to wear 3D goggles while sipping on a cocktail and possibly getting trippy on the art popping out at you, JOIN US!!!

"Uther Worldz" by Mark Finne opening Tues, Apr. 6th @7pm.
Complimentary finger food, free wine with postcard invitation and Jersey wine + beer on special all night. Come early to nab your free goggles!!

Table reservations available via email, click here.

LOVE is the message

2010-02-10T03:03:00Z

Let's give it up to bloggers, especially those that do it every day. I'm sending you guys a lot of love knowing the virtues it takes to get it done. My quarterly blogging is unacceptable. I know some of you who read my posts, and if I still have your attention, kisses to you!

Love is the message this week. And while we still have the time, let's plan what that message can look like. Guys, if you have an inch of inclination, go for the letter. It's at the height of the unexpected. And may get you points to last beyond this Sunday. Wink wink. And by the way, you don't have to sound like Shakespeare; just sincere.

Then there's dinner. At LITM, you can have dinner set with romantic movies to help move the conversation along, fill in the silence, or even express what you've been meaning to say. The dinner will come with a surprise free glass of sparkling wine. So don't be alarmed if we start pouring without you asking. Just pretend it was all part of the plan.

Now for the chocolate. If you live in Jersey City and think your mate will appreciate you supporting a local business, go to Lee Sims for some of the best chocolate, ever. Go for the cherry cordials, milk chocolate covered crackers and strawberries. In my opinion, you can forego the flowers if you have the chocolate.

Most of all, do what you're compelled to. There are far too many ways to express your love. And many more days to make an event out of it.

Events before the new year:

2009-12-03T18:36:00Z

We have a few events before the new year. Here are the details:

Sunday Retro Movies + Dinner Night

Sundays used to be Italian film and food night, but then we started to run out of Italian films to play. So we decided to play the movies we grew up with. Here is the line up of the films for December.

Dec 6-
6PM Peewees's Big Adventure
8PM Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure

Dec 13-
6PM Monty Python and the Holy Grail
8PM Conan the Barbarian

Dec 20-
6PM Miracle on 34th Street
8PM Muppets Christmas

Dec 27-
6PM How the Grinch Stole Christmas
8PM Charlie Brown Christmas

Jan 3-
6PM Dark Crystal
8PM Labyrinth

8PM movies played with sound. 6PM movies played with sound based on attendance.

And Dinner during the Movie...
Choice of soup or salad + entree for $20.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[99 Beer Club]
Wed, December 16th

Cider Tasting + Free Cheese Pairing

Doc's Apple Cider Company
from Warwick, NY comes to LITM for a night of cider, cheese and holiday cheer.
The founders, Jason Grizzanti and Jeremy Kidde, will be serving their apple, pear and raspberry ciders. And we're matching them with specialty cheese.

3 Flights of Seasonal Cider + Free Cheese Pairing Menu:
-Apple cider with extra sharp cheddar
-Pear cider with double cream brie
-Raspberry cider with honey lavender whipped goat cheese

$15 per person. Free teas + hats from Doc's.
Reserve your spot today, ask your server or email info@litm.com

Art lovers + future collectors

2009-09-01T00:21:00Z

Come to Lau's show where you are bound to find something, many things you want to take home. Lau's been part of our group shows throughout the year and always attracts happy owners of her art. This month will be her first solo show at LITM. Her and Andrea finished hanging today. Here's a peek of the walls... come see the rest tomorrow. DJ Hells Yeah, free snackies while they last + $3 wine. Opening starts @7pm.

Lau Gallico Klohe, solo art show opening Tuesday, Sept. 1st, 7-10pm.
LITM 140 Newark Ave, Downtown Jersey City, NJ 201-536-5557

Peachy Day on Fox 5 Morning Show

2009-08-25T04:53:00Z

Last Thursday we got a cooking + cocktail demo spot on the Good Day Cafe Show on Fox 5. Just a few days before, one of our kitchen refrigerators broke, our ice machine needed repair and the basement got flooded. The week may not have started out peachy keen, but it ended on a more glamorous note. Knowing that there'll be another day, even after repairing the one before, is what it's all about. So when life gave us peaches, we made peach tart tatin.

Peach Party at the Grove Street Farmers Market, Jersey City
Thursday, August 20th

On location with weatherman, Mike Woods. See video here.

Chef Todd Villani....too sexy for his peaches.

Getting ready...

The Grove St Path station behind with Fox 5 crew.

Chef Villani caramelizing sugar to pour over the cooked peaches. The
key to boiling the sugar is to start out by making it look like "wet sand".

Mike Woods enthusiastically moving the demo along. R ecipe for Peach
Tart Tatin.

Andrea supplied the peach cocktail. A fun time was had by all. Mike Woods
should have his own show, as his fans passionately said.

Right after the demo.

Pegi (left), from the NJ Peach Council, made this possible.
All photos above by Jason Bartholomew.

Had to include this to show the Peach Queen.

The crowd, and Jason with his camera on the left.

Back at LITM serving Andrea's Peach Pick-me-Up

Love in courses

2009-05-28T03:26:00Z

I recently saw the movies Love in the time of Cholera and Purple Violets. Two different settings with one common theme: follow the love. I love sappy movies. If you've seen one lately, tell me about it. I look for that kind of stuff.

In May I was in LA and had a chance to eat at Valentino's and meet an industry legend, Piero Selvaggio. Having been in business for over 30 years, Pierro has certainly followed the love. I'm wrapping up my book - Restaurant From Scratch - and will be interviewing Piero for the final chapter. He started with $4500 at age 26 and created a multi-million dollar business. Just the kind of story befitting for the book. My final manuscript is due at the end of this month, but I'm having an entrepreneurship class just before. If you have a love for this business or a retail concept, and want to learn how to get started, join me on Saturday, June 27th.

Here's a picture of me and Robert with Piero. Robert and Pierro became friends when Robert was in LA in the 80's pursuing his acting career. We had a 7 course meal of Sicilian love. Mille grazie!

Rain, a life lesson

2009-04-04T01:21:00Z

In seventh grade I attempted to learn a word a day by randomly choosing a page in the dictionary and pointing my finger on it. My first try got me the word soporific. I quizzed my friends and to my delight no one knew it except for me. I don't recall how many times I did this, but I do know that that's the only word I remember from doing that exercise...

With all the bad rap that rain gets, I do enjoy its soporific quality. But even more so, I am most inspired to write when it rains.

I spent all of last week in Vegas for a personal development (or more like unfoldment) seminar. It's interesting how separatist our mind works. Did I really think I would be the only one there? With my reaction you would think so. I was amazed at how many entrepreneurs showed up. LITM has taught me many life lessons. And for years, I bought into business isn't personal. But time and again, when I forced myself to push through business frustrations, I felt the residual effects personally. As it turns out, the two go hand in hand...

Looking at the recent tumultuous change that's occurred in our world, I still can't help but be optimistic. The only thing that's constant is change. And when a business resists - it's forced to. So now that our banks have to reinvent themselves, how about they start listening to the people they're meant to change for? What if the next wave of banks were run like your favorite neighborhood restaurant? Why not? Banks are all about money and who doesn't like money? So imagine, you're greeted at the bank doors by a hostess (or even the owner), and you can either make a simple transaction at the bar, or be seated for a full-course money matter. And what if the guests were as well versed in financial terms like they are about exotic food ingredients. And instead of the banks spending money on marketing, they instead spend it on complimentary food and drinks for their customers. Mondays can be Monopoly Night.

If this appeals to you, and you want to start a bank, give me a buzz. But all banking aside, it's really about what we're passionate about. Soporific should describe rain, not what we do with our lives. Although, evidently, rain can be inspirational. It all depends how we choose to use it.

In love and service,
Jelynne

12th Year Reunion

2009-03-10T04:03:00Z

I've been holding my breath every time I'm alerted of a tagged photo in facebook. My high school class is having our 12th year reunion at LITM. And as you can imagine, pictures from the past are popping up. We're ok as long as we avoid freshman and sophomore year. But in all honesty, I'm having a blast. We were the last graduating class of McNair Academic when it was still on Bentley Ave. A small and tight bunch, especially towards the end.

I can't wait to see you guys.

In physics class showing off our snacks......?

Almost certain this was freshman year.

This picture reminds me of the show Saved by the Bell.

Senior cut day. Went to a lake in upstate NY.

Ms. Felton's team. City champs 3 out of 4 years.

A February filled with love.

2009-02-06T05:00:00Z

If you're on our email list, you'd already know that I've been spending a lot of time in my bathroom. Our apartment is freezing. So with my laptop and space heater, I've managed to turn our toilette into a warm working paradise. February is certainly a bitter sweet month. Chilly days, cupid and chocolate aren't such a bad combination. But mainly because of the chocolate.

We're having our first Chocolate + Wine Pairing event on Tues, Feb. 10th. This one strikes sweet memories for me as we feature Jersey City's fine chocolate maker, Lee Sims. My first job was brushing and boxing chocolate for Valerie at Lee Sims. Eating them also came with the job. So from first hand tasting, I can't rave enough about the chocolate covered caramarsh, raspberry jelly, apricot, pretzels.... Ladies, need I convince you more? (If by chance you can't make it, you can order chocolate from their online store. My fave is the milk chocolate covered crackers!) Our chocolate and wine pairings can be pre-ordered online, Click here.

For the cupids who are earnestly planning for the 14th, our Valentine's Day dinner menu has been decided. And here it is...

Valentines Day 2009

Chefs Amuse Bouche

****

Butternut Squash Gnoccci with Cocoa Cardona Cheese cream sauce

***

Organic Greens, Mocha Walnut Vinaigrette

***

Grilled Rack of Lamb rubbed with Juniper Berry & Cocoa Bean

Braised Leek and endive Barlotto, Mint Lamb Jus

Jersey Day Boat Scallops dusted with Cocoa & Saffron

Sweet Potato Confit, Sautéed Rainbow Swiss Chard, Blood Orange Beurre Blanc

***

Warm Valrhona Chocolate Tart

Fresh Berries and creme anglaise

This menu is $45 per person, rose petals included at Love is the Message. Make your reservations today, 201-536-5557 or email Leah@litm.com .

This may be a short month, but we definitely didn't skimp on the number of activities for you to choose from. So if I still have your attention, here are some more sugar and spice...

On Wed, Feb. 18th we're taking a chartered bus to Fairfield, NJ's Cricket Hill Brewery. You may have noticed by now that I've got some Jersey pride going on. Rick Reed is the master brewer and he's been so generous to give LITM's 99 Beer Club a private tasting and tour that night. For $36 you'll get 5 beers, a boxed dinner, free ride on the beer bus and entertainment from the "Awesome" Rick Reed. Tickets are available online or at LITM.

On the 21st, which is a Saturday...we have "Mastering Martinis", the second LITM bartending class with Andrea. There is so much information to share about this one, so click onto Brown Paper Tickets or read below...

That Sat. evening on the 21st, we have the fabulous, the fantastic and the funky Cate Musiq Group! Performing again and again and again...Their set starts @ 9:00 PM.

And lastly, you won't believe this but the bathroom story comes full circle with our final event of the month. Are you ready for this one?? LITM is going to put in a 2nd BATHROOM!!!! Yes, it's been a long time coming and you've been a long time waiting for your chance at the toilet. So we're cutting the line, finally! We are having a TIDY BOWL FUNDRAISER PARTY!!! And tidy bowl shots are just the beginning... this his happening on Thursday, Feb. 26th. Stay in line for the rest of the details. Are you as excited as I am?!!

Tidy Bowl Fundraiser Party!!

xoxoxoxoxoxo jelynne

Hello New Year

2009-01-27T03:46:00Z

Hey there! Can't believe it's been over a month since I last wrote here. First off, happy new year. I hope you had a fulfilling holiday season...making the best of what matters most in life. I feel like I've been watching the days pass by since the end of December til now. But I may have just discovered a pattern of mine. By the end of December I usually come to a halt at the realization that the year is about to come to a close. And then spend the beginning of January realizing it's already a new year.

So let's catch up from last time. Robert and I went to Vegas for New Year's Eve for two reasons- my 30th and Chef Theo Schoenegger at Encore. Theo is a dear friend of Robert's from when they worked in the kitchen of Andrea da Murano at Palio NYC, 1986. Foodies may know the name. Chef Andrea is an intriguing story of a culinary genius ahead of his time. Ask Robert about Andrea, the stories are captivating. Theo was Andrea's protege, and in a short time received 3 stars from the NY Times for San Domenico and then a Michelin star. Fast forward to today (after some more touting in LA) and Theo is the Executive Chef at Sinatra's in the new Encore by Steve Wynn. What a place...

Soon we'll catch up on what's coming up at LITM...

This was at Switch Restaurant in Encore. Where the decorative walls switch
every 20 minutes.

The restaurant has 3 stylish portraits of Sinatra. Here's 2 of them.

With Sinatra's Executive Chef, Theo Schoenegger

Sinatra's Pastry Chef, Kevin Cauldwell. He's from NJ!

Sinatra's dining room. The 3rd portrait is in the back between the 2 vases.

XS club in Encore. Grand opening night was New Year's Eve.

Back in Jersey City, President Obama stopped to say hello.

Yes We Can...Drink Beer

2008-12-16T02:51:00Z

Ladies, we need to give beer a chance. There's a whole world we're leaving untapped. Now I know I can't speak of every gal, but the majority of us dismiss it. I sure did. For years I was glued to my favorite glass of red wine (partly because of the health benefits) and the nobility of the grape.

But then came the rise of craft beer. And before I knew it, we were carrying sixty beers, some of which were fruity and exotic, with a collection of cool mugs. Could beer be really that exciting? My curiosity kicked in...

Knowing that the best way to drink beer is with other beer lovers, we formed a club. And soon enough, I began proclaiming Heck yeah beer's exciting. It's got so much going for it that I wish my tolerance could keep up.

These days I've traded the pinot for porter. And will be talking it up with you ladies until you too believe that yes, we can drink beer.

This was our 3rd beer club event with NJ's River Horse Brew Master introducing
his seasonal brews.

Christian Ryan, the master brewer of River Horse with Andrea and Nancy from
Hunterdon Brewing Company.

The beer club experiencing a flight of six totally different beers.

Christian and his wife, who is now a beer drinker herself.

Christian's brews...thanks to our beer for beginners class, I finally understand
the hoppy bitterness and malty sweetness lingo. The Hop-A-Lot-Amus was
my favorite.

16 Days and counting....

2008-12-09T18:41:00Z

We're buying our Christmas tree today. Which means I'll be going to Target to buy the decorations as well. Every Spring I get an urge to purge and wound up throwing out just about anything that I haven't used in months. Unfortunately, holiday decorations get tossed too. I doubt keeping them will be on my list of resolutions.

One resolution that is surfacing is being 2 months ahead with our events. From conception to execution, every event needs about a six to eight week lead time to get the logistics, details and marketing completed and effective. We're fine tuning the events remaining in December and the ones coming up in January.

All this information will soon be under the Events section on our website. But I have the details now, so why wait to give you a heads up...

Take your iPhone or if you're still a paper lover like me, your planner out and mark your calendar. Something is bound to catch your interest.

::::::: DECEMBER HOLIDAY TREATS ::::::::

Wed, Dec. 10th
Schmooze with Master Brewer Christian Ryan
[99 Beer Club Exclusive Event]

NJ's River Horse Brew Master, Christian Ryan, lives in Jersey City, and....
is giving us a formal introduction to his seasonal brews:

6 Flights of Seasonal Brews for Only $10 -

Lager - Non pasteurized Irish lager
Hop-A-Lot-Amus (tap) - Double IPA
Double White (tap) - Belgian style wheat beer
Special Ale - Extra special bitter
Belgian Freeze - Amber winter ale
Oatmeal Milk Stout - Brewer's reserve, limited edition

PLUS...

FREE River Horse Mug
One-on-One Talk with Master Brewer, Christian Ryan!
15% off all River Horse Beers for 99 Beer Club Members

This is a 99 Beer Club Exclusive Event. Become a member today, it's free to join.
Reserve Your Seat Today! Email Leah

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Sat, Dec. 13th
Chillfest Film Screening at 2:30pm
"Were the World Mine"

Only bar service available. No food.

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Sat, Dec. 20th
"Become A Master Mixologist"
Bartending Class

Ever wondered what goes into the drinks that you order? From Manhattans to Cosmopolitans, learn how to make ONE and you'll know how to make them ALL!

Andrea, LITM's head bartender, will teach you the "Bartending Basics"...

* Learn To Use Bar Tools, Glasses & Bar Lingo
* Hands-On Training & Mixing
* Make& Taste Your Own Cocktails - 4 Drinks Included
* Holiday Cocktail Recipes: shot, hiball, martini & punch
* FREE Mixologist Kit - shaker, wine key, glasses & recipe cards
* PLUS... A Bonus DVD of the Class If You *Enroll By Dec. 11th*

Class begins 12pm sharp.

ALL for ONLY $57 per student. Buy your ticket online.
P.S...Looking for a great holiday gift? Buy your loved one a ticket to this class and we GUARANTEE he or she will love you for it! Or your money back!

P.S.S....The second class will cover "Advanced Martini Making" and the 3rd Class will be on "Getting Creative - Using Seasonal Ingredients in Your Drinks". Build your foundation with this first class so that you'll be knowledgeable for the rest.
NOTE: No one under 21 years old will be admitted.

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Sat, Dec. 20th
Cate grooves his "After Party" live music with a Christmas touch*

Experience the energy and soul. $5 cover. Begins 9pm

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Thurs, Dec. 25th
~CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY~

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Wed, Dec. 31st
"New Year's Eve Hollywood Dinner "

Enjoy cocktails inspired by memorable movie characters, as well as a 6-course dinner inspired by some of the greatest directors.

*No Cover Charge, but Reservations Are A Must*
Buy Tickets Online

Seatings are 5:30p, 8:00p and 10:30p. If you'd like to watch the ball drop while having dinner, we recommend the 10:30p seating. You are welcome to stay at the bar after dinner.

Dinner Menu
$89 per person with Glass of Rose Champagne

Roasted Chestnut Soup with Apple Julienne
-Gus Van Sant. Good Will Hunting "How 'bout them apples?"

Beef Tartar, Avocado, Mache, Truffle, Crispy Shallot
-Quentin Tarantino, Reservoir Dogs "Mr. White cuts off policeman's ear leaving it raw."

Chopped Asian Salad, Bean Sprouts, Snap Peas, Julienne Carrots, Sweet & Spicy Peanut Sauce
-Ang Lee, Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon

Lemon Verbena Broiled Lobster Tail, Lump Crab Risotto, Oven Roasted Tomatoes, Beurre Blanc
-Steven Spielberg, Jaws

Slow Braised Short Rib, Porcini Mushroom, Foie Gras, Asparagus Spears, Tornado Whipped Ramp & Potato Puree
-Victor Flemming, Wizard of Oz

Chocolate Ganache with Rose Champagne Center
Tim Burton, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Favorite Hollywood Character Cocktails

James Bond - A classic vodka martini, medium dry with a lemon twist and of course: shaken not stirred $11

Holly GoLightly - This one is purely divine, dahling! Rose champagne spiked with cherries & elderflower liqueur $9

Scarlett O'Hara - A stiff but refreshing mix of fine bourbon, peach liqueur & peach juice. Perfect for a high-spirited Southern belle $9

Captain Jack Sparrow - Beware ye scurvy landlubbers! This concoction of golden rum and lime may seem like a treasure, but it'll put a piratical swagger in your walk! $9

Willy Wonka - This delectable treat of blueberries and chocolate will take you straight to Wonka's factory! $10

Yoda Shots - It's small. It's green. And the force is with it. $5

::::::::: THE START OF 2009 - JANUARY::::::::::::::::::

Tues, Jan. 6th
January Art Show Opening 7-10pm
Free hors d'oeuvre & $3 glasses of wine

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Wed, Jan. 14th
Rare & Exotic Winter Brews!
[99 Beer Club Event]

A special preview of our winter menu available for 99 members.
Become a member today! It's free to join, email leah@litm.com

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Thurs, Jan. 15th
WINTER FOOD & COCKTAIL MENU UNVEILED!

Be the first to try our new dishes and cocktails off our seasonal winter menu.

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Sat, Jan. 17th
Cooking Class with Chef Todd Villani
"Soups, Stocks & Sauces"

Learn the foundation of cooking and expand your culinary abilities. Chef Todd will give you an in-depth lesson on butchering a whole chicken, cutting the breast, using the carcass for stock and the legs & thighs for soup.

You'll Get -

One-on-One Training by Chef Todd Villani
Pan Seared Chicken Breast with a Roasted Garlic Sauce, Sauteed Greens & Mashed Potatoes for Lunch
Free Glass of Wine
Recipe Cards
FREE DVD of the Class for future reference
FREE Tote Bag of goodies if Enrolled by Jan 1st, 2009.

Class begins 12:00pm Sharp.

All for ONLY $65 per student. 15% off for Alumni
Tickets available online -or- at LITM

WATCH A CLIP OF CHEF TODD'S FIRST CLASS AT LITM - CLICK HERE

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Tues, Jan. 20th
Inauguration Party

Celebrate our new President with Obama's favorite food and drinks! We'll screen the CEREMONY on the Big Screen all night.