travel area: Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island

Jumat, 16 September 2016

Coast | Where I'm Eating

A scenic drive and a short ferry ride away from our home in Jacksonville Beach, sits the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island . It's easy to assume the Ritz-Carlton is simply an exclusive retreat for those looking for a top notch getaway. You may be surprised to learn, however, that there are many luxurious amenities open the public. One of those treasures is it's new restaurant Coast. Serving up Modern American Coastal cuisine for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, Coast's casual sense of style and fresh local catch will please the eye and the palate and once. Here's what to look forward to when you visit.

deviled eggs, and shrimp fritters from Coast at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

On the Menu:

Starters

Deviled Eggs, Shrimp Fritters, Poblano Chicken Flatbread

Fresh Local Ingredients

with an Emphasis on Seafood

Look for a great selection of coastal themed dishes. The freshest local seafood finds a place on your plate alongside a strong presence of traditionally Southern creations. We started with crunchy shrimp fritters, seasoned to perfection in just the right amount of breading. Deviled eggs were given an elevation oscar style with blue crab, a combination that is executed with perfection. A never fail set of flatbreads appear on the menu in the form of Truffle Mushroom, and Poblano Chicken (complete with pork belly and pimento cheese). We tried the Poblano Chicken flatbread as well and I must say the flavors were perfectly balanced and distinct.

On the Menu:
Burrata Caprese with Shrimp

For our mains we moved on to sandwiches (Swordfish, and Burger) and my lighter choice, a Burrata Caprese with wild caught shrimp. The flavors in my salad were overwhelmingly delicious. I'm always looking out for a destination salad, and this one certainly delivered.

On the Menu:
Swordfish O.L.T. Sandwich

The sandwiches held their own as well with hearty portions and perfectly cooked proteins.

On the Menu:
Bistro Burger
with Pork Belly

How do you make a burger even better? Add pork belly!

On the Menu:
Bistro Burger

Dessert at Coast

Casual Elegance

At our meal's conclusion we enjoyed perfectly portioned confections created by the Ritz-Carlton's in house pastry chef. These delightful small bites were each a masterpiece in their own right. The best part is you didn't have to choose just one. We grabbed one of each and passed them around the table for a guilt free tasting. (Everyone knows small desserts are calorie free right?)

Enjoy a bite of dessert at Coast

We couldn't get enough of each decadent dish. I look forward to returning for breakfast and dinner, after all the journey is just as enjoyable as the destination.

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

Enjoy selections from a full coffee bar at Coast

Jumat, 19 Juni 2015

Best Spas on the First Coast | Amy West on The Chat

Craving a spa day? There are many reasons to set your sights on the First Coast as a destination to getaway to, one of which are her many fantastic spas. I recently reported to 10best on Jacksonville's Top 10 Spas. Today I'm highlighting the top 5, as seen on my recent appearance on The Chat.

1. The Ritz-Carlton Spa

(Amelia Island)

This destination has a unique relationship with salt. Located seaside, they are famous for their restaurant Salt and have a genius way of incorporating the surrounding region into their menu. You will see that influence mirrored in the Spa with Himalayan Sea Salt Scrubs and Bath Soaks. Himalayan Sea Salts are known to have healing and calming qualities and are great for detox.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa is full service, so you'll find face, body, hair, and nail treatments.

Try: The Zero Gravity Heaven in a Hammock Massage

2.The Ponte Vedra Spa

( Ponte Vedra)

The Ponte Vedra Spa happens to be the regions largest facility of it's kinda rounding out at 30,000 sq ft. Featuring over 100 beauty and pampering services they do everything from hair, makeup, nails, and body treatments. The Ponte Vedra Spa is perfect escape for special occasions, pre-wedding preparations, or just a day to yourself to renew your mind and spirit.

Try: Zen Scalp Ritual

3. The Spa at One Ocean

(Atlantic Beach)

The Spa at One Ocean is the ultimate tranquil escape. Oceanview treatment rooms and relaxation rooms where you can watch Dolphin's frolicking in the surf.

Try: The Seashell Massage ( like a hot stone massage but with special seashells)

Natural Body Spa and Shop in Jacksonville

4. Natural Body Spa and Shop

(St. Johns Town Center)

Natural Body Spa and Shop is well known for their commitment to the use of the most natural body and skin products. Ideally located in the center of the city at St. Johns Town Center shopping mall, it's a fabulous "go-to" destination for monthly treatments or daily skincare and body products.

Try: Men's and Women's Specialty facial treatments.

5. The Spa and Salon at Amelia Island Plantation

(Amelia Island)

The Spa and Salon at Amelia Island Plantation is committed to protecting the environment and supporting the local economy with fair trade organic products. As a full service spa the Spa and Salon at Amelia Island Plantation proudly offers facial, body, hair, and nail treatments

Try: The Seaside Sensory Journey

A combo of massage, exfoliation,and energy balancing

Extra Tip: With most of these spas, whether you book one service or a full day of pampering you have access all day to the relaxation, pool, and fitness facilities available within the spa.

Find out who else made the list here

Have a secret spa escape you love? Tell me about it in the comments below!

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

Watch as I discuss these Best Spas on The Chat