Dispatch from -. Street

As mentioned in blogposts passim, Sheena has been been lusting for a committed relationship with the Kimpton Hotel chain for several years. Alas, geography, market distribution and the annoyances of an apartment of my own have interfered in what could truly be a stellar pairing.

Back to the scene of my first time: the The Topaz near Dupont Circle in Bush Gardens. Din-dins in the lounge. Crab spring rolls with spicy cold noodle salad and peanut sauce on the side. Washed down with the Lavender Karma martini (vodka, lavender-infused syrup, sour mix, candied lemon twist garnish... nice floral flavour, but a little sweet. Colder might be better. I'll ask for side of ice if I ever order it again).

The place seems a tad more restrained than the last time I spent time here. While the totem/worry rocks are firmly ensconced in the bed, the big round cushion/couch from the middle of the floor upon which an ex-brit gal pal attempted to convert an urban studies policy wonk who played exclusively for the other side is now gone from the room. Times change, I guess. Those were the Clinton years, now that I think about it....

Onwards and upwards to the Blue Nirvana: Citrus vodka, blue curacao, sparkling wine and a touch of sour. This is more like it, though I hate it when the barwenches shake up a bubbly based martini-style drink. Grr.. wastes the bubbles.

Front desk staff aren't wearing their caftans tonight which is rather disappointing. I thinks I'll ask for a discount as compensation for the unmet expectations.