for the tykes

as often is the case, there are many activites and places that i don't explore unless i have visitors in town. . . but that's how i found myself having tea at the american girl's salon monday afternoon. it was an interesting concept- little girls dress in their finest outfits with their american girl doll(s) in hand. the room is girly but chic- lots of black, white and pink. there is even an attachable seat for your american girl to sit right beside you.

the menu: scones, tea sandwiches (chicken salad, turkey & brie, and ham & cheddar), delicate cookies, banana bread, mini cinnamon buns, brownies, chocolate mousse and orange slice shaped jello wedges.

while the food was nothing to write home about- the experience was clearly delightful for the american girl fans. after stuffing ourselves with more sugar than i can handle, we explored the collection of american girl dolls and memoriabilia on sale. bless her sweet soul- my poor niece was simply overwhelmed, agonizing for a good while over the assortment- wanting the prettiest and best pieces but not wanting to spend too much of her parents money. after consulting with her mom- she picked out a nellie doll, a new gown for samantha, some school supplies, and a coat for nellie.

then it was time to meet up with the boys who were biding their time at fao schwartz just up the road. we brought their booty back to the hotel and rested for a bit before heading to dinner at blue ribbon sushi bar & grill. compared to blue ribbon sushi on sullivan- i couldn't help but be disappointed. while the dishes were well executed, the sushi fresh, and the service adequately attentive- the experience was . . . dare i say it, unremarkable and boring.