Savory Sister: Review of Sister’s Thai Restaurant in Alexandria, Virginia

Just a stone's throw from the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C., tucked away in the heart of the charming and historic neighborhood of Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, lies an uncharted culinary gem waiting to be discovered - Sister's Thai Restaurant. If you're in the DMV (local slang for DC, Maryland and Virginia), you've probably already heard of this or at least seen this place on Tiktok!

The Bar at Sister's Thai Restaurant in Old Alexandria, VA (Washington, DC)

This hidden haven of gastronomic delight, with its authentic Thai offerings, is nestled like a secret whispered among food connoisseurs and trendsetters. An oasis for foodies, it has gained rave reviews from satisfied patrons. With an impressive 4.5 stars on Google and Yelp from over 2,000 reviews, it's clear this place isn't just ticking boxes, it's creating a sensation.

The vibe? Think hip, cool, and eclectic, with a price range that won't break the bank but will undoubtedly make your taste buds feel like a million bucks. So, if you're in the mood to embark on an epicurean adventure, Sister's Thai Restaurant in Alexandria, Virginia, is your ticket to a tantalizing trip!

On this urban gourmet journey, I was joined by my homegirl and her kid, both ardent admirers of Southeast Asian fare. We totally gave in to splitting a dessert, which was surprising, considering she isn't usually into sweets. I think me and the kid convinced her ;) This twist made the whole thing more fun, sharing the sugar rush with my foodie friend, wrapping up our food adventure on a high note!

Red and Yellow Curries at Sister's Thai Restaurant

The Red Curry with chicken (as well as the yellow curry with shrimp that my friend got) was a harmony of flavors! Oohwee I love me some red curry with rice! The aromatic red curry paste perfectly complements the succulent chicken. Eggplants and bamboo shoots provide a delightful texture, while sweet basil and bell pepper bring a refreshing tang to the rich coconut milk base. This mouthwatering delight is an absolute must-try for any food lover, including those new to Thai cuisine. Red curry is always my go-to ;)

Strawberry Chocolate Toast Dessert at Sister's Thai Restaurant

The Strawberry Honey Toast from Sister's Thai Restaurant is truly a dessert to behold. This decadent dish is generously adorned with fresh, ripe strawberries that add a burst of natural sweetness and a vibrant pop of color. The toast itself is perfectly golden and provides a satisfying crunch, while the premium Ghirardelli chocolate drizzle lends a touch of richness that sends this dessert over the top. It is an extravagant treat that masterfully balances flavors and textures, making it a must-have for any sweet tooth.

Blue Hawaiian Magnolia Drink at Sister's Thai Restaurant

And the Blue Hawaii Magnolia Sparkle, what an exotic, refreshing little beverage! This tropical delight is bursting with fruity flavors that transport you straight to the sandy beaches of Thailand. The vibrant blue color is absolutely mesmerizing, and the fresh pineapple garnish provides a delightful tanginess that perfectly complements the sweet, refreshing drink. I admit that I had a double shot added to it **insert skull emoji here**

In essence, Sister's Thai Restaurant in Alexandria, Virginia, is an absolute must-visit for any food lover. I can't wait to return next time I'm in town. Meanwhile, make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, and Tumblr for more culinary reviews and gastronomic adventures!

Exquisite Dining Experience at Mon Ami Gabi: A French Bistro at the Paris Casino & Hotel in Las Vegas

 CHIC. BUZZING. MEMORABLE.

Mon Ami Gabi French Bistro Cafe at Paris Casino & Hotel in Las Vegas, NV

Mon Ami Gabi, a chic French bistro nestled near the front of the Paris Casino & Hotel, has truly stolen my foodie heart! With its prime location on the Las Vegas Strip, you'll be dining al fresco, basking in the glow of the iconic Bellagio fountains just a stone's throw away (technically across the street but you get the gist). This spot is an absolute must for a date night or even a stylish lunch rendezvous. Don't forget to book in advance though, this trendy spot is always buzzing!

My Review of Mon Ami Gabi:

As is my tradition when visiting any restaurant, I always begin with an appetizer and a simple glass of water to rinse the slate clean. As the main course arrives, I love to pair it with an aptly chosen cocktail or a glass of wine, which adds an extra layer of intrigue to the meal. And for dessert, another beverage selection is made to complement the sweet finale. This ritual not only spices up the dining experience but also allows for a deeper indulgence in the culinary seduction at play. Oooh la-la ;)

Appetizer.

Kicking off my culinary adventure, I indulged in the ever-so-chic escargot, named Wild Escargot de Bourgeogne, those little oven-roasted snails bathed in a decadent garlic herb butter. Alas, my foodie enthusiasm got the better of me, and I dove in before snapping a pic - but trust me, they were delicious and remain my favorite French appetizer!

Entree + Cocktail.

Next up, my main event was the divine Warm Chicken & Brie Sandwich. Think layers of succulent chicken, creamy brie, sweetly caramelized onions, and artfully thin slices of crisp green apple, all lovingly nestled between slices of crusty French bread. It was a symphony of flavors that played a beautiful sonnet on my tongue ;)

To wash it all down, I opted for the Paris Romance - a flirty cocktail that's all about the tropical vibes. It’s a heady mix of fruit juice and Malibu rum, capped off with a playful splash of bubbly. It was like sipping on a Parisian sunset - sweet, intoxicating, and oh-so memorable! I'm a rum lady, by the way, most likely due to my Caribbean heritage.

Dessert +  Drink.

Ah, the crème brûlée! This quintessential French dessert and I shared a delightful rendezvous at Mon Ami Gabi. It was a gastronomic waltz of creamy delight beneath a crisp and caramelized sugar roof. My friend and I, united in our sweet-toothed adventure, found ourselves swooning over this blissful dessert, as it transported us to the charming cobbled streets of Paris.

The espresso, an unassuming yet powerful beverage, was the perfect partner to our crème brûlée. It was no fanciful showstopper but rather a reliable, comforting presence - an agreeable accompaniment to our saccharine journey. It's hard to err with such a classic pairing, and Mon Ami Gabi indeed hit all the right notes.

Sidenote.

Let's be honest, Las Vegas may be known for many things, but an abundance of French cuisine isn't one. Amid the city's gastronomic landscape, Mon Ami Gabi emerges as a welcomed oasis of French culinary delight, especially for those dipping their toes into the world of French cuisine for the first time. It's a little pocket of Paris in the heart of Vegas, and it's totally worth your time.

As for my French restaurant résumé, it's a bit extensive, due to antebellum New Orleans being a former special interest and living in Houston for over a year and a half. Currently, Brasserie du Parc (review coming soon) in downtown Houston is holding the top spot with its ambience and exquisite offerings! However, Mon Ami Gabi isn't far behind with its charming allure and tantalizing menu. It certainly outshines Left Bank in Menlo Park, CA which, let's just say, won't be receiving any future reservations from me. In comparison, Mon Ami Gabi is like a breath of fresh Parisian air, and I wholeheartedly recommend giving it a try when you're in Vegas!

My Final Review.

Service, cuisine, and vistas – a tantalizing trifecta that had me head over heels! The culinary fare was nothing short of star-studded, deserving a standing ovation of five glittering stars. The service? Flawless, seamless, and utterly charming, another round of five stars. And the view, oh the view! A dazzling spectacle worth every one of its five stars. As a former Vegas resident, this place has me yearning for those neon lights and endless nights. When I reclaim my Vegas vibes, Mon Ami Gabi will be my first port of call for a post-revelry brunch. It's the perfect antidote to a night of Sin City shenanigans. Wink wink, nudge nudge ;)

So, about a year ago or so I started hearing all this buzz about "Emily in Paris" on Netflix. I haven't got around to watching it yet though and writing this review reminded me of it for some reason. I've got mixed signals from folks - some saying it's a fun, funny, cute, light-hearted ride; others, well, not so much. They say it's really kind of corny and a bit too clichéd to be enjoyable, at least, for any French culture lovers. I wouldn't describe myself as such but I'm still curious: What do you ladies (and gents) think? Is it worth giving it a shot or should I just pass?

Tweet me and let me know! Also, check out my first blog post and restaurant review here.

Ciao, 

Sateona ♡

Stunning Skyline Views and Unforgettable Dining: A Review of Upstairs at The Gwen in Downtown Chicago

 RELAXING. CAREFREE. ELEGANT. 

Upstairs At The Gwen - Chicago, IL

Upstairs At The Gwen, a cherished gem nestled in the heart of the Magnificent Mile, Downtown Chicago, offers a unique experience that is not to be missed! This rooftop lounge, part of the Gwen Hotel, presents a captivating mix of refined small plate offerings and crafted cocktails. With its relaxed, yet sophisticated atmosphere, it effortlessly combines modern and art-deco elements in its design. As the sun sets, the scene is further illuminated by twinkling lights, making the stunning skyline view an awe-inspiring backdrop to your casual dining experience.

On my first adventure to Upstairs at The Gwen, I had a few hours to spare before my flight, so I let Google Maps be my guide. This rooftop spot popped up, and I thought, "Why not?" Best spontaneous decision ever! I wish I could show you more of the amazing food and drinks I had, but you'll just have to take my word for it ;)

It was a feast for the eyes and the palate!

On to the REVIEW:

Unfortunately, the culinary marvels that graced my palate during my visit seem to have taken a bow from the menu, but allow me to paint a picture for you anyway!

The meatballs - unseen in my photos yet forever imprinted in my taste memory. As a self-declared meatball maven, I can tell you, these were the real deal. I devoured them with abandon, decorum be damned!

Next up, the mussels in a spicy tomato sauce - an absolute revelation. Traditionally, I'm a mussels-in-white-wine-sauce kind of gal, but I decided to venture off the beaten path and boy, did it pay off! The Gwen needs to usher these beauties back onto the menu, stat. The sauce was a masterclass in balance - spicy, but not overwhelmingly so, with a creamy undertone that had me longing for a pen and paper to jot down the recipe.

Sipping on a spicy margarita and an enigmatic cocktail (the name escapes me now), I was in libation heaven.

To sweetly cap off my epicurean journey, I indulged in the mini churros - a symphony of textures with a crunch that gave way to a soft, chocolate-laden center. One bite in, and I was echoing a resounding chef's kiss to the Chicago skyline.

In conclusion, Upstairs At The Gwen is an ideal place to spend time in a posh lounge, conveniently located near ORD airport. It offers not just a meal, but a sensory experience that leaves a lasting impression. This place has everything a sophisticated traveler needs. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this rooftop lounge is a must-visit in Chicago. You can expect a delightful mix of tantalizing dishes, crafted cocktails, and an ambiance that is unparalleled.

For more reviews, check out the tags on this blog as well as my YELP profile. And of course, I’m always on Tumblr, Instagram and Twitter.

Ciao!