The Soup Dumpling Facial...Take That Spa Week!!

New York's Spa Week in is just around the corner. For those not familiar with this epic week, Spa Week is when many spas offer their treatments for only $50. This allows women to pamper themselves at New York’s finest spas for a fraction of the price. Such treatments include spa pedicures, massages and facials. Now, normally I participate in this awesome week of indulgence, but this year, I decided to pinch a few pennies. And, in the honor of Spa Week and the horrible economy, I’ve decided to let you all in my new-found SUPER CHEAP SECRET – the “Joe Shanghai’s Soup Dumpling Facial".

Now, one can argue what makes someone a true "New Yorker". But the real telltale sign is if you’ve experienced the infamous Joe Shanghai Soup Dumplings. Tucked away in the dirty crowded streets in Chinatown, is the gem known as Joe Shanghai’s. Without exaggeration, people line-up for hours to taste these savory little miracles known as the soup dumplings. I, however, line up for the dumpling facial. As soon as you sit down, the waiter asks “dumplings?” You’re response should always be – “Hell Yes!” Forget beverages, they are secondary to the dumplings and for pansies.

The Soup Dumpling path from the kitchen to the table is a hot one. The waiters swerve through the tables to get the dumplings to their customers as fast as possible. This creates what’s known as the “danger zone”. As soon as the waiter plops these delectable treats on the table, I hope and pray the steam comes my way. I hover (slightly) over the basket of dumplings and let the steam saturate my face. I’ve always thought, a sign of a good facial is – does your facial smell good enough to eat? In this case – definitely!

So for those who are hungry, want to pinch a few pennies and participate in Spa Week 2009, try the “Joe Shanghai’s Soup Dumpling Facial”. I promise your tummy, wallet and face – you won’t regret it.

Joe Shanghai’s
9 Pell Street
New York, NY 10013
www.joeshanghairestaurants.com

Spa Week 2009
http://www.spaweek.com/

Wednesday's Outfit

Sweater: Zara

Shirt: Tommy Hilfiger
Skirt: Banana Republic Shoes: BCBG