Review: SiTea: The Spice Boutique

Last week, a friend of mine told me about an event at SiTea - Spice Boutique. In case you're wondering, SiTea is pronounced as 'city'. I'd never heard of it so I quickly Googled them and went to their website.

I admit their website (http://www.siteaspice.com/) almost discouraged me from going there because when I tried to RSVP on their events page I was unsuccessful. (Since then their website seems to have improved)

They are located in the Takoma section of DC, an area that I'm not at all familiar with. Needless to say, I ended up trusting my friend's judgment and ventured out on the Friday before Valentine's Day for their special Taste Something Sexy event. We were greeted at the door and handed name tags. The ladies introduced us to SiTea and its concept along with telling us a little bit about the evening's event.

As soon as we walked in were given some hand-made appetizers (including yoni-cookies and samosas) and told about the tea tastings they had available. Everyone was incredibly friendly and extremely knowledgeable about all of the teas and spices. The place itself had what appeared to be nearly a hundred blends of tea and spices, each one was in a canister and you were free to take a sniff. They also had several tea kettles and diffusers available for sale. Side note: I especially loved the ladies (and the one guy) who worked there and their cute red and black Burlesque outfits.

The Mandingo tea was soooo good!!! I had no less than 5 tastings of it. It was a Chai tea served steaming hot with a touch of Almond milk, it was deeee-lish. My friend purchased the Mandingo tea and I ended up purchasing "My Jamaican Boyfriend" a black tea along with a cayenne spice blend.

I absolutely loved the look and feel of SiTea. It's comfy and cozy and I could definitely see myself going back to grab a cup of tea and lounging on one of their couches for hours. I'm definitely a fan.

SiTea - The Spice Boutique
6902 4th St NW
Washington, DC 20012
202.525.5386
http://www.siteaspice.com/
@SiTeaSpice

Things to Do: Mingle at the Museum

In search of finding new and interesting thing in DC, I just came across this after hours event at the Smithsonian's Museum of Natural History. These events seem to sell out quickly and they have extremely limited tickets available at the door. Information I pulled from the museum's website is posted below.

Art and Soul of South Africa

Featuring Carolyn Malachi

Thursday, March 24 - 6:30PM to 9:00PM

Be entertained and inspired in an evening that combines traditional art with a modern spin. Enjoy Grammy-nominated artist Carolyn Malachi’s unique blend of jazz, pop, r&b, and spoken word as she performs works by some of South Africa’s soul music artists. Browse the museum galleries to view the second exhibition in the Artists in Dialogue series, in which exciting artists—including South Africa’s Sandile Zulu and Brazil’s Henrique Oliveira—are invited to an encounter in which each artist responds to the work of the other. The result is an original, site-specific work based on their encounter in the museum.

Let spontaneity of the exhibit and the music move you to create your own work of art. Then, reward your creative effort with tempting South African-style hors d’oeuvres.This evening is in collaboration with the Smithsonian African Art Museum and made possible in part by South African Tourism.

Schedule
6:30PM - 9:00PM
• Carolyn Malachi performs
• Art activity inspired by Artist Dialogue exhibit
• Stroll through the exhibition gallery
• Food service provided by Purple Onion Catering
• Cash bar featuring Heineken products

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Featured Exhibition: Artists in Dialogue II: Sandile Zulu and Henrique Oliveira
The Smithsonian's National Museum of African Art (NMAfA) is organizing the exhibition, "Artists in Dialogue: Sandile Zulu and Henrique Oliveira," as the second in a series of exhibitions in which exciting artists (at least one of whom is African) are invited to a new encounter -- one in which each artist responds to the work of the other, and resulting in original, site-specific works at the museum. The exhibition will also include a selection of works by each artist to reflect who they are coming into the encounter.
Read More About this Exhibition

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GENERAL INFORMATION

• One drink ticket included with admission.
• Additional drink tickets may be purchased with either cash or credit card.
• Must be at least 21 with a valid photo ID to attend.
• All ticket sales are final.
• All bags will be searched by security.
• Personal items can be checked in designated coat rooms or lockers at your own discretion. The museum is not responsible for any lost or stolen items.

Food Truck Review: Red Hook Lobster Truck

Let me first begin by saying, I was always a snob when it came to food trucks. Typically, when I'd see them in the past, I'd turn my nose up and say I'm not eating from somewhere where there's no sink for the people preparing my food to wash their hands or use the bathroom. Well times have changed.

A few months ago, I heard there was a new food truck coming to DC that's speciality was Maine lobster. Being that I L-O-V-E all things with shrimp and lobster, the thought of it made me drool with excitement.

After reading their daily tweets (@LobsterTruckDC) and seeing their launch pushed further and further back, the anticipation had died down and I'd forgotten all about them. A little while ago, I just happened to see a tweet from an associate of mine who works down the street saying the truck was going to be in our area. I figured this was finally my chance.

She ended up not going but I didn't allow that to dissuade me. I walked over to McPherson Square to see what all the fuss was about. That day it was extremely cold so I figured the line couldn't be that long. Wrong!

The truck got there at 11:00 and by the time I got there around 1:00 there were still a good 20-25 people in line in front of me. I ended up chatting it up with a older Polish woman which made my 30 minute or so wait go by a little faster.

I finally got up to the window and ordered the Lobster Roll Connecticut-style, meaning it didn't have mayonnaise and was drizzled in butter instead of being creamy. I couldn't wait to get back to my office to see if it was really worth the wait. Let me tell you, it was sooo worth it. The bread was perfectly toasted and the roll had just the right amount of lobster. I'd say there were 5 or 6 large lobster claws in it. It was succulent and seasoned just right with a slight lemon and butter taste. It ate every last morsel.

In addition to the roll I ordered, they had a mayo-based one (Maine-style), Shrimp Rolls, clam chowder (I'm guessing that's just for the winter since it's not listed on their website), whoopie pies from Maine, Cape Cod chips (I love the Sea Salt & Vinegar) and Maine Root sodas.

If you have a chance to catch up to the Red Hook Lobster Truck, I say go for it. Make sure you follow them on Twitter so you'll know when they'll be in your area. Thanks to the Lobster Truck, I have to say I am no longer a food truck snob and I'm sure you will definitely not be disappointed.

Red Hook Lobster Truck
Moving Targets throughout DC
202.341.6263
http://www.redhooklobsterdc.com/

National Harbor Restaurant Week (2/15-27)

If you love Restaurant Week as much as I do, you'll jump at the opportunity to take advantage of Restaurant Week at Maryland's National Harbor.

This year's event begins today, February 15, and runs through Sunday, February 27, 2011. Like the RWs in DC, Bethesda, and Alexandria, it's $20.11 for a 3 course lunch and $35.11 for a 3 course dinner.

I believe this is their second year hosting the event and since they've added several new restaurants over the past 12 months this is the perfect time to take advantage. Some of the restaurants included are: Rosa Mexicano, National Pastime (in the Gaylord Hotel), Ketchup, and Grace's Mandarin. I'd also suggest Cadillac Ranch, not so much for the food, but for the chance to ride the bull. Yes, they have a mechanical bull and it's quite hilarious to watch people get thrown off of it. After a few drinks, you may even want to try your luck.

For more information about National Harbor Restaurant Week and to see the menus of those restaurants participating, click here.

Find Today's Daily Deal on Your City's Best Things To Do at Groupon.com!

Things to Do: Valentine's Day in DC

With Valentine's Day quickly approaching I had to share with my readers a few events and deals that I've come across. Whether you're anti-V Day or you love it, with the warmer temps (it's supposed to be in the 50s this weekend) why not go out and have some fun.

Below are some pre-Valentine's Day events that are happening this Friday (one is also on Monday). I pulled most of the events from BisNow's The Scene and wanted to share. The events are perfect for singles or couples.

Speed Dating for a Cure at Tabaq Bistro
1336 U Street NW
Friday, February 11 from 5:30 – 11:30 PM, take part in . Benefiting a great cause — The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. 12 for 12 — 12 DATES FOR ONLY $12. Cash bar, happy hour menu, and fantastic RAFFLE prizes throughout the event, for more info.

Woo at the Zoo

National Zoo, 300 Connecticut Ave NW
Friday, February 11 from 6:00 – 10:00 PM, back for another year, Woo at the Zoo open to both singles and sweethearts, a lighthearted exploration into the sexual behavior of animals at the National Zoo. $15/FONZ members or $25/nonmembers includes a complimentary red-stemmed champagne flute, hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, Valentine cookies, and free parking,

for more info.

S.O.M.E. Junior Gala (one of my favorite local charities)
Corcoran Gallery of Art, 500 17th St NW
Friday, February 11 from 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM, join SOME (So Others Might Eat) for the Eighth Annual Junior Gala. Enjoy cocktails, live music and dancing for young professionals. Tickets: $85/person or $170/couple – benefits Marguerite's Place,

for more info.

Paradise Springs Winery Valentine's Chocolate & Wine Pairing

13219 Yates Ford Rd, Clifton, VA

Friday, February 11 & Monday February 14 from 11:00 – 9:00 PM, join Paradise Springs Winery in a special Valentine's Chocolate & Wine Pairing. Each Paradise Springs Wine will be paired with a unique chocolate. Tasting of Sparkling Viognier, Apres, included: $25. Reservations not required. For more info,

www.ParadiseSpringsWinery.com

Valentine's Day Deals

Check out the Capitol Dish's website for some incredible restaurant and hotel deals for Valentine's Day. Also, make sure to sign up for their weekly updates. For more information, click here

Living Social has a promotion called Flirt Fest from today (February 8) to February 14. They are offering various adventures, good for both singles and couples. Today's offer is for a tequila tasting, mojito making demo and salsa lessons for only $29. Visit their website for more information, click here.

Spa Review: Tranquility Med Spa (Don't Do It!)

Typically, I don't post negative reviews on my blog but recently I wrote a review on Yelp about an awful experience I had at a spa in Alexandria, Virginia and I wanted to warn others about it.


While the massage itself wasn't "that" bad, the entire experience definitely left a lot to be desired.

I purchased a deal for a 60 minute Swedish massage via Living Social in December to a "med spa". A few weeks ago I called to schedule my appointment and was greeted by a voicemail. The message basically said they'd received an overwhelming response to the promotion and to book an appointment you'd have to do it online. Should've taken that as a sign of what was to come.

I booked my appointment online about 3 weeks ago but had some questions about other services that couldn't be booked through their website so I attempted to call them several times. I called in the morning, midday, and in the afternoon, still no answer just the same voicemail.

Fast forward to today. ..I arrived at 6910 Richmond Highway in Alexandria, VA around 12:10 for my 12:30 appointment. It was a 4 story office building, not at all what I was expecting but I figured since it was a med spa it would be a little different.

I walked in and circled the first floor several times trying to find Tranquility Med Spa. I finally spotted someone who worked in the building and she said she'd never heard of the place and suggested that I was at the wrong address (which I was not). Again I tried to call the spa for further directions and yet again I got the same voicemail.

Eventually, I walked back outside and was about to get into my car. I ran into someone else who worked in the building and he also said he'd never heard of it but said there was another entrance on the other side of the building.

I finally spotted a place called Whole Health and went in to inquire if they knew where Tranquility Med Spa was. They told me that they were Tranquility. Mind you, there was not one thing, no signage, no marketing materials, nothing that said anything about Tranquility Med Spa, outside or inside.

So around 12:20 the reception hands me an application to fill out then she disappears. Next thing I know she comes back to the desk with a plate of food. I know it was lunchtime, but really? Another woman with a laptop, I'm assuming was the manager, eventually said someone would be right with me. My masseuse Shayla came out to get me for my 12:30 appointment at 12:38.

I walked into the room and the first thing I noticed was how loud the overhead music was. The room was bare except for the massage table, a chair and a sink. I noticed the walls did not go up to the ceiling so I could hear everything.

I made a note to look at the clock in the room to see when my massage began because I had a feeling they were going to try to short me because they were late. My massage began at 12:42.
Like I said before the massage itself wasn't that bad, the pressure was fine unlike the previous reviewer. The main issue was how loud it was in there. For the first half of my massage I had to endure a conversation between whom I'm assuming was the manager and a salesperson having a meeting.

They had a very boisterous conversation about products, logos and websites, I could hear every word they said. I was obviously annoyed and I guess the masseuse could see the displeased look on my face so she let out this loud "Shhhhhh". The two in the room next door finally quieted down for a minute or two before they started talking loudly and laughing again.

Next thing I know the masseuse is asking me how my massage was. I looked up at the clock and it was 1:25PM on the dot. My 60 minute massage ended up being only 43 minutes. I was thinking you've got to be kidding me.

I walked out to the receptionist and immediately asked her if my massage was supposed to be 60 minutes or 45. She confirmed it was 60 minutes, just as I'd thought. I told her my massage was only 43 minutes and that it was incredibly loud because of the conversation going on in the room next door. She simply said "Oh". The manager who was also out there and heard my comment didn't say a word either. No apology, no trying to make amends, nothing. Totally unacceptable!

My massage at Tranquility Med Spa was definitely one of the worst experiences I've EVER had. I would NEVER EVER recommend that anyone else goes there. I truly feel bad for the other 2k people who purchased the deal from Living Social. Do yourself a favor and just don't go!

Here's more information about the "spa" and yes, I use that term loosely.

Tranquility Med Spa or Whole Health Medical Center
6910 Richmond Highway, Ste. 120
Alexandria, VA 22306
571.485.0208