Tonight we had many reasons to celebrate. For one, it was Restaurant Week, so we got to eat a five-star meal for two-star prices. Secondly, it was International Women’s Day, and I was out with a group of beautiful ladies, dressed to the nines, and ready to have some fun. Third, and most importantly, it was my dear friend Amy’s birthday!
Me, Melissa, and Amy- the birthday girl!
Anna and Linnea
Dinner tonight was at The Grand Brasserie in the Waldorf Astoria Hotel located on the historic and beautiful Bund in Shanghai (whew…that’s a mouthful!). Upon entering the Waldorf I was taken into another world, a place too posh, lavish, and decadent for little ole me, but I loved it, if just for a night! Decked out in marble, crystal chandeliers, grand staircases, and 10 foot flower bouquets, it was a place fit for a queen (or 8 queens!). Our meal consisted of three courses, each one lovely and full of flavor. My favorite courses were the crab cake and the dessert, but the salmon was nice, too. I would definitely go back to The Grand Brasserie again.
First Course- Crab Cake
Second Course- Grilled Salmon with Polenta, Artichokes, and Fennel
Third Course- Warm Chocolate Cake and Strawberries and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Following dinner, we headed out to have a few drinks on Yong Kang Lu, a street lined with bars and restaurants that is frequented by expats. Everywhere was packed! We weren’t sure if it was because it was Women’s Day or because it was a relatively nice night (i.e. not raining and not too cold). Regardless, we found a spot in the back of the Taphouse, where we staked our claim. A few other friends joined us for the festivities, and we had a good time conversing with one another and laughing at the 21-year-olds who were obviously wasted by 9:00PM. As women in our 30’s (or nearly there), we can’t imagine acting that way now. 😉
Me and Michelle
Linnea and Me
Tired of being cramped and hot, we moved the party to an Irish pub across the street, seeking some solace from the throngs of party-goers out and about, hoping for a chill place to sit and relax. The Irish pub, we found, was just as crowded as the Taphouse. The Ireland vs. Italy rugby game was on, so finding a spot to sit was impossible. Nonetheless, we settled in, had a drink (or two), mingled with the usuals, and tried to one-up one another with our dirty jokes. As a spectator in the joke-telling contest, most just made me laugh! As the night wound down, we all had a yummy birthday apple cheesecake cupcake courtesy of the lovely Melissa. Hope you had a fabulous birthday Amy! Love you! 🙂
my heart is happiest when i travel. read. write. connect. 