the Blog

You’re going to find my in-depth reviews about places I’ve traveled to, kitchen adventures (and maybe mishaps) , restaurants I’ve visited far and wide (looking at you, Dublin) and tons more behind the scenes of what happens at The Monique Story!

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REVIEWS

July 21, 2019

Must-Order Dishes at Lucky Robot

I’ve been an ambassador for Lucky Robot this year and have had the pleasure of visiting monthly to try out their delicious Japanese cuisine. One of my favourite things about them (besides their excellent cuisine) is their passion for seafood sustainability. I’ve enjoyed sooo many amazing things on the menu and I’m here to report […]

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May 8, 2019

Austin Food + Wine 2019

This was my third year in a row to attend AFW and it was one of the best times yet! I was lucky to partner with 14 Hands Winery to help spread the word about their delicious wines. They served a refreshing frosé, a smooth red blend, bubbles and rosé. Their wines also just launched […]

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March 13, 2019

Hashimoto’s Protocol: Week 10

TEN WEEKS. I can barely believe it!!! While I haven’t adhered to the AIP diet, I know I’ve made great strides in resetting my liver, adrenals and gut health. I really am SO proud I’ve made it this far- everything I’ve politely refused a free drink at a media event, every time I’ve driven past […]

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Week 9 and I’m still going… I only have three weeks left until I’m finished with my reset! I just started seeing an acupuncturist – Stephen has an integrative medicine style which I like a lot more than what I’ve experienced in the past. We had an almost 2 hour session where we talked about […]

March 8, 2019

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March 1, 2019

Hashimoto’s Protocol: Week 8

Ok so I realized I can’t give up chickpeas. They’re good in SO MANY things and in so many ways! I also haven’t knocked the nightshades or eggs yet (but am having them much less frequently). I’ve been getting 10 – 12 hours of sleep a night since I left my office job which has […]

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January 16, 2019

Hashimoto’s Protocol: Week 2

I had some really good days and some really crummy days in week two. As a reminder from week one, everything is free of gluten, dairy, soy, added sugar, grains, caffeine and alcohol. January 9: Breakfast- green juice* Lunch- falafel salad with romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, hummus and tahini Snack- cashews Dinner- vegan alfredo pasta Click […]

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December 15, 2018

Eastern European Cuisine at Brama

Get your fix of all things European at newly opened restaurant, Brama! The word “brama” means “gate” in several different languages. It’s a fitting name for this spot since there are so many unique Eastern European items on the menu.  We started out with a beet salad that was so delicious. Y’all know I love […]

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If you haven’t heard, Forthright had an unfortunate kitchen fire last month and their space has been closed. However, they’re hosting a fantastic brunch every Sunday at Trinity Hall at 311 E 5th Street! Plus their food truck is open and operational during the week at San Jacinto @ Brazos St. from 8am-2pm. In the mean […]

December 13, 2018

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December 5, 2018

Funky Fresh Asian Fusion Spot, Tanuki, Opens Downtown

I’ve been anticipating House of the Rising Tanuki-san (or Tanuki for short) arrival in Austin for MONTHS and I was soooo delighted to finally try them out last week! The name comes from Japanese folklore as a shapeshifting shinto god of mischief. It fits the restaurant perfectly because they’re a fusion of East Asian and […]

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November 30, 2018

Peri-Peri Dreams at Tio Pepe Chicken

I recently traveled to London and of course had to stop at the beloved Nando’s. I was bummed coming back to Austin knowing that we didn’t have anything like that here… and then Tio Pepe appeared and all my dreams came true!!!! I’d say the majority of people haven’t had Nando’s or even know what […]

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May 30, 2017

Restaurant Review: Forthright Cafe

This post has been a long time coming because I have been a fan of Forthright for awhile now – but for those that haven’t visited or have it on their list to check out: this post is for you! Not only is the cafe beautiful and welcoming, but there’s ample seating both inside and […]

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