Now I'll be able to share my adventures in a whole new way.
Stay tuned!
Stay tuned!
Friday, August 26, 2011
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Seattle: Other Fun Stuff
I am so happy I stumbled upon Wax On Spa, not only because my eyebrows were in need of some serious attention but also because I finally got myself a copy of CRAVE seattle (which Wax On Spa is in).
It's obvious that they taking waxing seriously. I was surprised to see an array of different wax options in a number of fragrances. I also thought it was a cute touch that they offered lingerie options that are a nice little bonus to accentuate some of their wax services.
Fly Fitness, which is also included in the CRAVE guide, won me over with their FUNky style. I'm such a sucker for clever marketing, and everything about Fly Fitness' identity is (for lack of a better word) fly. From the breathtaking views that serve as a backdrop for runners to the exquisite studio, the details create nothing but an enjoyable experience for guests. I would love to go back for one of their Sporty Soirees.
Even though I was not involved in the Rain City Rock Camp, I was inspired by their "Girls Rock!" message. As I shared in my first Seattle post, my main reason for the trip was to escort my friend's niece (who we'll call Patty Schwab) on the cross-country flight. After two weeks of camp, where she enjoyed a variety of different sports, she went to Rain City Rock Camp for a week. I could not believe the transformation we saw after just the first day. When we picked her up that evening, she was so excited to share her stories that she didn't even get all the way into the car before rattling off all her favorite parts of the day. As the week progressed, we witnessed her style evolve, her confidence blossom, not to mention the singing in the bathroom. From song writing activities and band practice to lunch time performances and the big concert at the end, it seemed like an amazing experience that the girls not only enjoyed but really benefited from. I even wished I could share in the experience. You don't have to take my word for it, local publications like the Stranger and Seattle Weekly are singing their praises. I'm so proud of our little rock-stars!
Even though Sky High Sports is included in Memorable Firsts post, seemed appropriate for this one too:
Believe it or not, I had my first experience on a trampoline at Sky High Sports. (It's possible that I've been on a trampoline at some during my childhood, but I honestly don't remember. It's been on my to do list in my adult life for quite some time now.) I have to admit that I felt a bit ridiculous as one of the few adults (maybe the only adult with no children) there as groups of children ran by me. I was even a little bit intimidated at first when I saw what looked like a field of trampolines.
Watching the children, some who looked like they'd barely mastered walking, bound across the field of trampolines and bounce off the walls, it was only a matter of time before I was infected by their contagious energy. I was also inspired by the freedom I saw in a few women who were doing bouncing exercise. With all of that combined with the intensity I witnessed in the dodge-ball game in an enclosed pit, I was ready to go. I immediately realized that it was not as easy as the others made it look. Although I eventually got the hang of it, I was surprised by how much physical effort it took. I enjoyed the release and the freedom that came with each bounce. I enjoyed t so much that I'd love to develop my trampoline skills.
Not only does Sky High Sports offer a fun atmosphere, but with their dodge-ball pit and AIRobics classes, they also create a unique trampoline experience. It became clear within minutes of my experience that this is fun for all ages. I'd highly recommend it to anyone.
I found a YouTube video that shows just how cool this place is:
It's obvious that they taking waxing seriously. I was surprised to see an array of different wax options in a number of fragrances. I also thought it was a cute touch that they offered lingerie options that are a nice little bonus to accentuate some of their wax services.
Fly Fitness, which is also included in the CRAVE guide, won me over with their FUNky style. I'm such a sucker for clever marketing, and everything about Fly Fitness' identity is (for lack of a better word) fly. From the breathtaking views that serve as a backdrop for runners to the exquisite studio, the details create nothing but an enjoyable experience for guests. I would love to go back for one of their Sporty Soirees.
Even though I was not involved in the Rain City Rock Camp, I was inspired by their "Girls Rock!" message. As I shared in my first Seattle post, my main reason for the trip was to escort my friend's niece (who we'll call Patty Schwab) on the cross-country flight. After two weeks of camp, where she enjoyed a variety of different sports, she went to Rain City Rock Camp for a week. I could not believe the transformation we saw after just the first day. When we picked her up that evening, she was so excited to share her stories that she didn't even get all the way into the car before rattling off all her favorite parts of the day. As the week progressed, we witnessed her style evolve, her confidence blossom, not to mention the singing in the bathroom. From song writing activities and band practice to lunch time performances and the big concert at the end, it seemed like an amazing experience that the girls not only enjoyed but really benefited from. I even wished I could share in the experience. You don't have to take my word for it, local publications like the Stranger and Seattle Weekly are singing their praises. I'm so proud of our little rock-stars!
Even though Sky High Sports is included in Memorable Firsts post, seemed appropriate for this one too:
Believe it or not, I had my first experience on a trampoline at Sky High Sports. (It's possible that I've been on a trampoline at some during my childhood, but I honestly don't remember. It's been on my to do list in my adult life for quite some time now.) I have to admit that I felt a bit ridiculous as one of the few adults (maybe the only adult with no children) there as groups of children ran by me. I was even a little bit intimidated at first when I saw what looked like a field of trampolines.
Watching the children, some who looked like they'd barely mastered walking, bound across the field of trampolines and bounce off the walls, it was only a matter of time before I was infected by their contagious energy. I was also inspired by the freedom I saw in a few women who were doing bouncing exercise. With all of that combined with the intensity I witnessed in the dodge-ball game in an enclosed pit, I was ready to go. I immediately realized that it was not as easy as the others made it look. Although I eventually got the hang of it, I was surprised by how much physical effort it took. I enjoyed the release and the freedom that came with each bounce. I enjoyed t so much that I'd love to develop my trampoline skills.
Not only does Sky High Sports offer a fun atmosphere, but with their dodge-ball pit and AIRobics classes, they also create a unique trampoline experience. It became clear within minutes of my experience that this is fun for all ages. I'd highly recommend it to anyone.
I found a YouTube video that shows just how cool this place is:
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Seattle: Nightlife
Beyond the reggae nights (Sundays at WAIDS, Mondays at Baltic Room, Thursdays at War Room, Fridays at Afriq), we ventured out to explore more of what Seattle nightlife had to offer.
I loved the vibe of Lucid Jazz Lounge. It was my first time trying Boulettes (Haitian meatballs), which were really tasty. As I shared in my Yelp review,"It's obvious that they were well seasoned and made with authentic passion." I also tried a Manhattan, which was actually called a Brooklyn: A rye Manhattan made without bitters, instead we use maraschino liqueur and Dolin Rouge vermouth. The live band set a nice and relaxing mood for the intimate setting.
We also had a really good time at Babalu. The DJ kept the songs coming, and a local group kept the crowd on the dance floor with their version of some of the hottest party songs out right now along with some of their originals.
Republiq was the place that reminded the most of NY clubs. Maybe it was the size and the layout of the club; maybe it was the lights that filled the room; maybe it was the crowd or the music. Whatever it was, I felt right at home and had a good time there.
I loved the vibe of Lucid Jazz Lounge. It was my first time trying Boulettes (Haitian meatballs), which were really tasty. As I shared in my Yelp review,"It's obvious that they were well seasoned and made with authentic passion." I also tried a Manhattan, which was actually called a Brooklyn: A rye Manhattan made without bitters, instead we use maraschino liqueur and Dolin Rouge vermouth. The live band set a nice and relaxing mood for the intimate setting.
We also had a really good time at Babalu. The DJ kept the songs coming, and a local group kept the crowd on the dance floor with their version of some of the hottest party songs out right now along with some of their originals.
Republiq was the place that reminded the most of NY clubs. Maybe it was the size and the layout of the club; maybe it was the lights that filled the room; maybe it was the crowd or the music. Whatever it was, I felt right at home and had a good time there.
Seattle: Caribbean
Having grown up in a Trinidadian household, it is only natural that I'm a somewhat harsh critic about others' Trinidadian cuisine. However, when I first saw Pam's Kitchen on Diners, Drive-in and Dives, my interest was piqued. Not only was I surprised because Seattle is a place where I don't imagine many West Indians, but I was also excited about the fact that I actually knew someone in Seattle and had a reason to visit. We never made it during my last two visits because we had too much packed into the trip but this time we made it, and I have to say it was well worth the wait.
I have to give Pam's two thumbs up for reminding me of meals I remember from home. It was evident that care was taken in the presentation: it wasn't over the top; it was just right. The food was well seasoned, and you could tell from the tenderness of the chicken that it was cooked with love and affection. We tried a chicken roti, jerk chicken with fried rice and aloo pies. I thoroughly enjoyed it all. I especially appreciated how warm and soft the buss up shot was. I also can't resist the urge to rave about the seasoned salad that I could not get enough. When something as simple as a salad is seasoned well it is such a pleasant surprise. I can't say I was wowed by the sorrel rum punch, but it was a nice touch to rekindle the memories.
The place overall was very comfortable with island tunes playing and island reminders hung throughout. The staff was pleasant. All the details created a relaxed island vibe that made me feel at home. I would definitely love to go back and would certainly highly recommend it to anyone visiting Seattle.
Being of Caribbean descent in New York, I'm used to being surrounded by the Caribbean culture. Having been to other cities, I've also gotten used to not seeing that in other places. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the Caribbean culture is alive and well in Seattle. Not only did I get a little taste of Trinidad at Pam's, but I also went from feeling like I was at one of my family's backyard barbeques to Carnival when I went to a boat ride hosted by SOCA (Seattle's Official Caribbean Carnival Association).
Although I found comfort in the familiar reggae tunes, I found an interesting twist in Seattle. In New York, a reggae set will often include a mix from the different islands and may flow into Reggaeton. In Seattle, the Caribbean audience includes people from Africa, and the Caribbean sets segued into African music, which I really enjoyed.
After almost a month of what I like to call "nightlife research" I grew familiar with the line-up: Sundays at Waid's; Mondays at Baltic Room; Thursdays at War Room; Fridays at Afriq. I'd also recommend checking out SeattleReggaeScene.com to stay up on what's going on.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Seattle: Reasons to Return (To Do List)
It seemed that every time I accomplished one thing on my to do list, I'd discover a few more things that I really wanted to try. The list grew to the point that I realized that another trip to Seattle will be in order.
- Agua Verde is on the top of my list. This is right up my alley
- A Segway Tour is something that I once thought was silly, but now I'm curious.
- Sky City Restaurant in the Space Needle. We already know how I feel about rotating restaurants. It's not at the top of my list, but I'd like to try it for the experience.
- Savor Seattle Tour and a whole list of things in the CRAVE Seattle guide.
- Reminiscent of Coyote Ugly, I'm curious to see what Cowgirls is like.
- more seafood!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Seattle: Dessert
I am happy that Cupcake Royale is now in my life. What started off as a brief stop became a very exciting experience for me. Although I'll admit that I'd usually choose a slice of cake over a cupcake, the display at Cupcake Royale was irresistible. With so many to choose from, it was a difficult decision, but I was more than happy with my pick: the strawberry velvet. I need to go back to try as many more as I can.
The friendly man outside of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory did his job well. With a few nibbles of fudge he lured us into a place that I would have never wanted to leave. There were some of my favorites, like jumbo chocolate covered strawberries; a few things I was curious about, like chocolate covered orange peels and jalapenos; things I thought sounded like a good idea, like the chocolate covered bacon, which I wish I never tried. They didn't just have peanut buttercups, they have peanut butter buckets. I don't ever want a peanut buttercup again if there are peanut butter buckets in the world.
They also had display of chocolate covered wedding items that we so cute. Many details of my future wedding may be blurry, like the husband, the date, location and all that good stuff, but this is a detail that I'm certain I want to have.
Although Molly Moons seemed to be a popular treat, I have to admit that I didn't love it. I'm willing to go back and give it another try.
The friendly man outside of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory did his job well. With a few nibbles of fudge he lured us into a place that I would have never wanted to leave. There were some of my favorites, like jumbo chocolate covered strawberries; a few things I was curious about, like chocolate covered orange peels and jalapenos; things I thought sounded like a good idea, like the chocolate covered bacon, which I wish I never tried. They didn't just have peanut buttercups, they have peanut butter buckets. I don't ever want a peanut buttercup again if there are peanut butter buckets in the world.
They also had display of chocolate covered wedding items that we so cute. Many details of my future wedding may be blurry, like the husband, the date, location and all that good stuff, but this is a detail that I'm certain I want to have.
Although Molly Moons seemed to be a popular treat, I have to admit that I didn't love it. I'm willing to go back and give it another try.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Seattle: Happy Hour
I've been intrigued by Pnk Ultra Lounge since my visit in May, and seeing it in the CRAVE Seattle guide was confirmation that I needed to check it out. Because I was so determined to accomplish this one thing on my Seattle to do list, I decided to treat myself to happy hour. After much anticipation, I am happy that it lived up to my expectations.
I was immediately impressed by the oh so chic decor of white seating and pink lighting. The ceiling of the main bar area looks as if dressed with a rain-shower of crystals, which was very Vegas-esque. Because it is on the top floor of the mall, the outdoor seating overlooks downtown Seattle. With two bars and a third bar seating area, the layout is very spacious. The detail that topped it all off was the bathroom that is really more like a ladies lounge. Not only is there cute and comfy seating, but this is the first bathroom in which I have ever seen a bar.
I appreciated that the bartender used his experience from working on the Virgin Islands to make me a rum punch with Bacardi Dragonberry, which was tasty and potent. I really enjoyed the baked mac and cheese, which was super duper cheesy, and the big noodles made it pretty satisfying. I loved the sliders less than I wanted to, but I think it was the caramelized onions that were throwing it off for me.
Even if I did not consume anything during my time at Bin on the Lake, the experience would have been unforgettable. Upon walking up to it, my breath was taken away by the view surrounding the entire area. This was when I had a "I think I love Seattle" moment. Although this is a bit outside of the main Seattle area, this is the type of atmosphere that I crave and can imagine myself surrounded by on a regular basis.
Because it was a quick stop before the main CRAVE event, I just had a glass of Prosecco and a few bites of calamari, which came with a sauce that I couldn't get enough of. I've already decided that this is on my list of reasons to return. My imagination and my taste buds are tickled by the opportunity to indulge in a full dining experience.
I've found that the happy hour options seem to never end and can be a bit overwhelming. However, GoTime is a handy resource that sorts happy hours by specific criteria and keeps it as fun as it should be.
I was immediately impressed by the oh so chic decor of white seating and pink lighting. The ceiling of the main bar area looks as if dressed with a rain-shower of crystals, which was very Vegas-esque. Because it is on the top floor of the mall, the outdoor seating overlooks downtown Seattle. With two bars and a third bar seating area, the layout is very spacious. The detail that topped it all off was the bathroom that is really more like a ladies lounge. Not only is there cute and comfy seating, but this is the first bathroom in which I have ever seen a bar.
I appreciated that the bartender used his experience from working on the Virgin Islands to make me a rum punch with Bacardi Dragonberry, which was tasty and potent. I really enjoyed the baked mac and cheese, which was super duper cheesy, and the big noodles made it pretty satisfying. I loved the sliders less than I wanted to, but I think it was the caramelized onions that were throwing it off for me.
Even if I did not consume anything during my time at Bin on the Lake, the experience would have been unforgettable. Upon walking up to it, my breath was taken away by the view surrounding the entire area. This was when I had a "I think I love Seattle" moment. Although this is a bit outside of the main Seattle area, this is the type of atmosphere that I crave and can imagine myself surrounded by on a regular basis.
Because it was a quick stop before the main CRAVE event, I just had a glass of Prosecco and a few bites of calamari, which came with a sauce that I couldn't get enough of. I've already decided that this is on my list of reasons to return. My imagination and my taste buds are tickled by the opportunity to indulge in a full dining experience.
I've found that the happy hour options seem to never end and can be a bit overwhelming. However, GoTime is a handy resource that sorts happy hours by specific criteria and keeps it as fun as it should be.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Seattle: Memorable Firsts
Although this is not my first time trying sushi, I can now say that I love it. This time took my sushi experience to a whole nother level.
Blue C Sushi is a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Because I'm so easily amused, I was overjoyed by this entire experience. Sitting in a booth alongside the conveyor belt flaunting the seemingly endless variety of options in front of our face, we grabbed a few including: a Spicy Tuna roll (tuna, spicy sauce, cucumber), a California (crab salad, cucumber, avocado, masago), a Spider (fried soft shell crab, cucumber, avocado, mayo, masago), a Spinach roll (which was a ball of spinach that I was not a fan of), and cupcakes from Cupcake Royale to top it all off.
I love that each plate only comes with a few sushi pieces. I get a bit overwhelmed by entire sushi rolls, but this way it's easy to try a wider variety of rolls. I also loved that they incorporated some of Seattle's favorite desserts from Cupcake Royale and Mighty O Donuts, bringing an unexpected bonus to an already great experience.
I can't say that bubble tea is my new favorite thing, but I'm happy that I tried it. The flavor of the actual drink was tasty, and the tapioca balls were interesting for the first few sips, but it wasn't too long before I had enough of them. I hear that Ambrosia Cafe is among when it comes to best bubble tea, so I'm glad that I experienced it there.
I'm happy to have finally tried dim sum at Jade Garden. Similarly to Blue C, the serving style of lots of little dishes makes for a more fun and varied experience. We tried a number of things including pork buns, sticky rice and even tripe (which I have to admit wasn't as awful as I would've thought).
I'm making it a habit to try a local beer whenever I visit a new place. In Seattle, it was Ridgetop Silverycity Red Ale. Being the non beer drinker that I am, I think it tasted like most other beer that I've tried. I neither loved nor hated it.
It may be surprising that I did something other than eating during my trip. Believe it or not, I had my first experience on a trampoline at Sky High Sports. (It's possible that I've been on a trampoline at some during my childhood, but I honestly don't remember. It's been on my to do list in my adult life for quite some time now.) I have to admit that I felt a bit ridiculous as one of the few adults (maybe the only adult with no children) there as groups of children ran by me. I was even a little bit intimidated at first when I saw what looked like a field of trampolines.
Watching the children, some who looked like they'd barely mastered walking, bound across the field of trampolines and bounce off the walls, it was only a matter of time before I was infected by their contagious energy. I was also inspired by the freedom I saw in a few women who were doing bouncing exercise. With all of that combined with the intensity I witnessed in the dodge-ball game in an enclosed pit, I was ready to go. I immediately realized that it was not as easy as the others made it look. Although I eventually got the hang of it, I was surprised by how much physical effort it took. I enjoyed the release and the freedom that came with each bounce. I enjoyed t so much that I'd love to develop my trampoline skills.
Not only does Sky High Sports offer a fun atmosphere, but with their dodge-ball pit and AIRobics classes, they also create a unique trampoline experience. It became clear within minutes of my experience that this is fun for all ages. I'd highly recommend it to anyone.
I found a YouTube video that shows just how cool this place is:
Monday, August 1, 2011
Seattle: Brunch
Coastal KitchenI'm so happy that I listened to my friend about going to this place. I'm also happy that I was able to go on a weekday to avoid the infamous lines that happen at this popular spot.
My choice of the Dungeness Crab Cake breakfast was the best decision I made that day. I can't remember if I've ever had poached eggs before, but no previous experience even matters before this one. These were good enough to make me obsessed. The contrast of the texture over the crispy crab cake topped with the mornay sauce created a happy sensation in my mouth. I liked the idea of the spicy hash browns more than I actually enjoyed them, but with some black pepper, hot sauce and ketchup they were good too. The fruit topped the meal off nicely. I was seriously sad and genuinely disappointed when it was over. I also enjoyed the orange/pineapple mate (a tea-like drink) that I tried.
I went a second time for Hazelnut Cinnamon pancakes, which were a dream come true. In my dream, it was actually waffles but they definitely did the trick.
The staff was very friendly, and I enjoyed the Argentina inspired theme that created a cozy ambiance. The funny, witty menu was a nice touch.
The Crumpet ShopThis cheap treat definitely delivered a bang for my buck. It was so cute to see the operation happening right behind the counter. I was impressed by how the order taker memorized the list of orders and switched into crumpet making mode. Even though I was a bit overwhelmed by the options, torn between the different combinations of meats, cheeses and jams, I am so happy with my choice of green eggs (eggs with pesto) and ham. My crumpet was warm and fresh and buttered, and I savored every bite of my yummy little treat.
CJ's Eatery
The Country Fried Steak was just what the doctor ordered after a night out. The breading was well seasoned, which left a nice after taste. I can't say that I loved the entire meal or the entire experience, but it certainly did the trick for the moment.
Julia'sI didn't love Julia's but I enjoyed it. Check out my Yelp review to see what I thought.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)