And yes, for a while I realized that this little pastime of mine wasn’t doing justice to my waistline. So I gave it a rest. But old habits die hard and now I’m back to my fiendish ways.

I’m not the first to discover or write a raving good review about Frosty Palace. It’s been rated as one of Lebanon’s best burgers. I’m here to confirm that truth. I was there and I saw it too. The rumors don’t lie. That is one brave burger. Its warm fresh buttered bun grabs the little beast inside it with all its gloriousness and almost voluntarily takes the plunge into your mouth.

But before we all climax together let me tell you about this little treasure nestled away in Mar Mikhael’s inner streets. It’s named after the malt shop in the hit musical Grease, except instead of running into Sandy and Danny, the place looks like Audrey Hepburn would be seated at the bar. The décor is delightfully chic and simple. The huge crystal chandelier brings that paradoxical touch of glamour to the setting. Brilliant.

The place is teeny tiny, in a very intimate way. The menu is minimal. My man and I didn’t think twice before ordering the burger on the menu, fine freshly ground Australian beef. Jackpot. Our waiter announced that the mayonnaise and tomato relish (ketchup) were homemade. That got our attention.

We both prefer our burgers the classic way nothing too complicated, so we added some cheddar cheese and ordered them with a side of fries.

As soon as the waiter brought the little beauty out we knew. It sat alone on the plate, but it commanded the table. The patty was at that perfect level of thickness, more on the chunky side of things, just the way I like it. It rest on a bed of lettuce, tomato and some pickles and topped with some of that golden cheddar.

And though I like a generous portion of cheese on my burger which didn’t seem evident, it didn’t matter at that point. Because there was something in the beef that put an end to all those doubts as soon as I locked my fangs into it. It was like finding a long lost love after years of abstinence. I looked over at my man, who had already fallen under its spell and into a coma. Nothing could take him out of it, not even my giant glare signaling him to take it down a notch. Everyone could hear his moans and I was worried they wouldn’t believe this was really about the burger. We wolfed them down in less than ten. We contemplated seconds, but quickly dismissed the urge.

At that point we had completely forgotten about the wide chunky fries.  They had just the right amount of crisp in the bite and softness in the core.  We dipped them in the homemade ketchup and mayo until we scrapped our plates clean.

For dessert I went for the brownie with pecan nuts and caramel topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The brownie was nothing special, but the ice cream was delectable. I plan on going especially for a shake next time I’m in the neighborhood.

So go ahead, treat yourself to a gourmet burger this weekend, but prepare to splurge, a meal for two (burger fries and a soft drink will cost you around 25-30$ per person. It may not be a filet but trust me, this is not your average burger.

What’s your favorite burger in Beirut?

Check out more Burger Reviews in Beirut below

Albergo’s Rooftop

Classic Burger Joint

Casper and Gambini’s.

Cello

Burger Nation (closed shop)

Fuddruckers (closed shop)

Ivy’s Homemade Burger

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That was until my mother insisted I try out the Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief moisturizer. I was already a big fan of Clinque’s 3 step system since my late teens, having used their Liquid Facial Soap and Clarifying Lotion almost daily. So I brought my first jar of this award winning Moisture surge two years ago and have been hooked ever since.

I instantly fell in love with the texture, which is actually more like a gel than a cream, hands down, it’s one of the softest pink sheer formulas I’ve ever touched and it spreads perfectly onto skin and gets absorbed instantly, like it was never there. But it’s there alright, because it will leave your face feeling super baby soft and refreshed, almost plumped. The best part is that’s its actually oil-free.

It’s now a fundamental part of my daily regimen and even managed to get my makeup to blend much better. Although it doesn’t come cheap (around $60 for 75ml in Lebanon) it will last for 3 months easy since you really need a very small amount to comfortably spread it all over.

Try it out and let me know what you think.

Enjoyed this beauty review? Check out some more below

Too-Faced Lip Injection Gloss

Bassam Fattouh’s Blush Tint and Lip Tint

The Body Shop Leona Lewis Collection

Fiber Lash Brush On Fake Lashes

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Last Saturday night I attended Amethyste Lounge annual pool party at the Intercontinental Phoenicia.

Though I’ve been to this usually laid-back venue with its roman pillars draped in ethereal voiles amidst a magnificent pool for dinner and drinks last year, the place transformed into what felt like the Carnaval in Rio that night.

People were decked out in their most floral designer summer gear and over-sized colorful straw hats as they sipped on champagne and cocktails. Live performances played in the background while people feasted on the BBQ stations as the hotel’s five star chefs prepared a mouth-watering selection international cuisine including shawarma, Chinese food, Sushi and mini-burgers.

It was the perfect inauguration to a very eventful series of Beirut-y summer nights ahead of us.

Whether you enjoy tanning with a great cocktail in hand or a light dinner with drinks, check out this seasonal exotic hotspot.

Right: Mona Abou Hamze attends the ‘Cleopatra’ premiere at Cannes Film Festival this week also in this tiered lace Elie Saab gown and Chopard Jewelry.

Mona most definitely wore this better thanks to the way her feminine figure playfully hugs this dress in all the right places and because she wasn’t afraid to wear this dress the way it was designed.

Amanda did not do the intricate design on the dress any justice by wearing it a size too large, layering it with a cream sheath underneath and the red lips were total overkill.

What do you say?

Also check out Mona’s Separated at Birth

I also got the chance to review my first BB (Beauty Blemish) Cream, the latest sensation to take the beauty world by storm.

First things first, I was invited to the summer opening of one of Beirut’s hotspots this weekend and complemented my look with the Shimmer Palette in Bronze from the range, which works perfectly as a blush or bronzer for contouring.

I loved how well the colour transferred onto my skin and was a breeze to blend, a problem I usually face with most blushers. I even used some of the crème shimmer as a base on my eyelids and I must say the shade worked so well with the rest of my face. It’s one of those palettes that matches all skin tones to give you this subtle sun-kissed glow without looking over-the-top shiny or plastic.

I paired my look with the Honey Bronze Lip Nectar which really felt like I dabbed actual honey on my lips, the gold tint in it really livened up my look and reflected so perfectly with the Shimmer palette.

The formula is pretty viscous, so I suggest you give it a slight squeeze when applying and blend it really well with a brush to avoid unevenness. I’m not big on sticky glosses so I dabbed some powder from the shimmer palette on top to reduce it. I also tried and really liked the bright and fabulous shimmer-free Deelicious Fuchsia shade which I also paired with the Shimmer palette for a brunch the next day.

But before I applied all that makeup I used the Vitamin E Cool BB Crème which basically works as a (light coverage) moisturizer and all over hydrator.

If you’re not yet familiar with BB creams, they serve two purposes; skin care and makeup in one- sort of like applying a really good moisturizer on your face with a tint that will not only even out your skin tone but also lightly cover up your flaws.

And if you’re like me and wear foundation occasionally, then this is for you. It doesn’t mean that it’s a substitute for foundation, but the light coverage when applied solo will give you a naturally radiant look perfect for those light makeup-free days.

It also serves as a base right before your foundation. Vitamin E Cool BB Cream comes off matte, very sheer with a light coverage and shine. If you have oily skin this one’s for you but if your skin is on the drier side of things than you may want something slightly more luminous with higher coverage like their All-In-One BB Cream.

This new limited edition collection is available at The Body Shop stores across Lebanon but supplies are limited.

Enjoyed this beauty review? Click here for more reviews

As you set foot on the deck the 360° spectacular view of the marina, city, and surrounding mountains impose themselves on you. And just when you’ve held your breath long enough to absorb it, you begin to take in the place’s lavishness. The design is brilliant in a dangerously meticulous way, the perfect balance between effortless chic and poised as you’d expect from this 5 star powerhouse.

The lounge-y laid back atmosphere and beats synchronized with the customized projector make it the ideal venue for professional after-work drinks (doors open at 7pm) ,the absolute predrink spot before hitting a club or my personal favorite, date night with the man, a chance to sport a sexy pair of stilettos and sip on some of the finest cocktails in the city.

On Saturday night we headed over to The Roof for some quality time, literally. Our waiter was more than happy to walk us through the signature cocktails prepared by the finest mixologist and we were even happier to oblige.

I started the things off with one of the best (if not the best) Lychee Martini I’ve had in a very long time, and for someone who truly appreciates this fruit I was beyond marveled by the harmonious collaboration between the vodka and juice. I drank it a little too fast and our super-attentive waiter was quick to notice my PDA with it, because he quickly recommended I try the Kiwi Cucumber Martini. It hit the spot.

My man being the eternal classic (though he denies it) ordered a traditional favorite Mojito which I was also eager to taste. They say you can really judge a bartender by the Mojito he makes and this one had a great balance of mint and brown sugar.

I’ve heard rave reviews about the place’s Asian Fusion Tapas menu and was eager to see what the fuss was about. We wanted to keep things light so we started things off with a succulent cold starter, marinated fresh shrimps in pineapple and jalapeños, an unlikely combo that totally seduced our taste buds.

Next we had the fried chicken wontons which also came in a traditional bamboo basket, they were as good as most wontons I’ve had.

But the highlight was the main dish we shared, the Kung Pao Chicken, stir fried chicken and peanuts in soy-sesame sauce with hot chili paste. Now let me warn you this is not for the faint of heart, this dish has a real kick to it so if you can’t handle spicy steer clear. I loved how authentically Chinese it tasted but there was a point where it felt like my mouth was on fire.

Finally, the waiter offered us hands down one of the best fat-free vanilla/chocolate ice creams I’ve had with a side of get this: fudge brownies, chocolate chip cookies and cranberries. My heart skipped a beat with every bite.

We couldn’t get ourselves to leave but we were headed to Stereo Club Nights and were running late. I will definitely be making this a regular on my list of Beirut’s hot spots this summer.

Price Range: Average $60 per person (drinks and tapas)

Verdict: The best quality cocktails/venue/view money can buy

Also Try the Four Season’s The Grill Room, read my review here

Follow Ivy on Instagram

Christina Ricci looked perfect in plaid in this creation by quirky Vivienne Westwood, I loved the way the strapless gown flapped on her chest and the strappy heels. I also loved that she completed her look with orange lips rather than the typical red. She killed it last year in her bow tie dress and this year too!

My Grandma has been calling all morning demanding Kristen Stewart return her curtains. I kid. Dressed by Stella McCartney this burgundy satin pantsuit adorned in lace is actually very chic but I would have preferred it on someone slightly taller. Yes she is skinny, but pantsuits are for models. I LOVED the hair but didn’t appreciate the matchy-matchy smokey eye makeup.

Anne Hathway goes platinum this year and looks every bit the punk in this see-through vintage Valentino dress. A good comeback from the Oscar fail this year I loved seeing this usually goodie two–shoes in something more risqué and dramatic, but I’m not a big fan of mid- side-boob.

Another star that took the theme way too seriously was Miley Cyrus ( why was she even there?) in this long Marc Jacobs fishnet gown that looks like something she picked up from a stripper joint and the awful hair that is way too long for to spike up. To be fair though she looks like she’s rocking an amazing figure from that silhouette!

No she didn’t make a statement in Givenchy, Beyonce tried way too hard in this way-too-much-going-on dress. And I’m all for over-the-top couture and art but the thigh-high slit, matching boots and matching gloves made this one big mess to look at. Add that waist belt in to the mix and you got yourself something that looks like she took the title of the “Gala PUNK: Chaos to Couture’ way too literally. This looks like it was made by the House of Deron not Givenchy, just like last year when she looked like an ostrich. No matter how many people call her the Queen, even she can’t get away with this fashion crime.

Super Model Gisele Bundchen pulled a cheap shot on everyone at the gala. She wore an itsy bitsy little Anthony Vacarello  mini-dress that only women with radically tall legs can pull off- and she looked stunning!

Holy Grandma! Madonna raided her teenage daughter’s closet. We get it punk means studs fishnets and plaid but all three of those together is nauseating and don’t get me started on that wig.  And enough with the excessive show of butt, your over 50 and super fit. WE GET IT! She may be the queen of pop but she is definitely NOT the queen of style. And Givenchy? Come on!

Leave it to Gwyneth Paltrow to make a statement in the most effortless manner. While most stars were decked in 80’s memorabilia she threw on this satin long-sleeved bubblegum pink Valentino with a sheer panel cutting right across her upper chest. And although I the simplicity of the dress I don’t think it did much justice to her midsection. I would have preferred it to be slightly more form fitting on her.

Nicole Richie makes sure she gets noticed this year in a shocking grey frock and an amazing embroidered Topshop gown which I just loved! She pulls this off without looking too punkish and still keeping her poise and elegance. One of my best dressed looks of the night!

Finally Jennifer Lopes in a long-sleeve full length gown without the excessive cleavage or thighs! She must be reading my blog!  Ok prolly not.But she wore a curve–hugging Michael Kors feline patterned dress with an amazing punk-inspired combed back hair do which I’m going to print out and show my hairdresser this weekend.

No to matching your shoes and dress. And how does a floral print gown from head-to-toe have anything to do with the punk theme? Pregnant  Kim Kardashian managed to find yet another super unflattering look for herself in this form-fitting Givenchy gown by Riccardo Tisci.  Besides the fact that she looks like wallpaper the worst part of the dress is that it comes with attached gloves in the same pattern. JUST AWFUL!

Rooney Mara was one my of best dressed of the night with this stunning crème laced Givenchy gown (finally something decent from the fashion house) she went super light on the foundation, minimal on the haired and finished her look with oxblood bold lips. Perfection

Sarah Jessica Parker revived her Sex and The City Character in this crazy head piece by Philip Treacy and Giles Deacon gown and paired them with Louis Vuitton plaid boots. Do not attempt to try this look unless you’re Carrie Bradshaw.

An unexpected and very pleasant fashion risk from Kirsten Dunst who wore this ravishing gown by Louis Vuitton, I love every bit of it from the plunging neck line to the patterned halter to the olive green feathered bottom. One of my best dressed of the night!

Always a winner, Kate Beckinsale looked beautiful in this Alberta Ferretti dress with an asymmetrical hem that she paired with the perfect earrings and the perfect heels. A little too safe perhaps?

But before I dish about my latest beauty secret, let me tell you a little bit about Bassam Fattouh Cosmetics. As the name suggests, makeup artist extraordinaire and image confidant to a long list of celebrities including Haifa Wehbe, Elissa and Mona Abu Hamze recently launched his re-branded beauty line, collaborating with the likes of international fashion illustrator Liselotte Watkins and renowned graphic designer Rana Salam. The collection boasts an amazing selection of creative makeup tools with a twist from creamy eyeliners named Leyl and Feyruz, dreamy Orient liquid liners dubbed Sharm and Mikonos and a full range of velvety and matte lipstick and blush shades which are this season’s hottest beauty trends.

I prefer to keep things light when I don’t have to paint my face. Other days, I just want to keep my face makeup-free but still need a quick pick-me-up, especially if I’m late to a meeting or off to the gym. That’s precisely what both Blush Tint and Lip Tint are; the perfect remedy to some quick color without looking like you just swiped a ton of blush or lipstick on. But make no mistake; both can be used as base or touch-up with full makeup.

The Tint line is made of a water-based gel works line a stain on your skin giving them a natural flushed look like you’ve just ran a mile. Lip Tint actually gives me the exact same result as applying on red lipstick and then wiping it off with a tissue (which I do A LOT.) minus the actual mess that comes with it. The best part is that it literally lasts all day. The challenging part is trying not to lick it off your lips, this stuff tastes like candy.

Although Blush Tint comes with a sponge applicator, I found that it works much better when you remove it and instead use your hands to dab it on your face.

As for Lip Tint you can control the amount my twisting the bottom, just make sure you move it around fast on your lips as it could blotch if you keep it in one place for too long!

I totally recommend you go for both products which will quickly become beauty staples in your bag. You can find Bassam Fattouh Cosmetics in department stores across the Middle East and Lebanon.

Curious about more beauty products? Let me know what you’d like me to review.

Also see

Too-Faced Lip Injection Gloss

Fiber Lash Brush On Fake Lashes