When I heard we would be reviewing The Pie I got excited and nostalgic for memories of driving to the underground pizzeria near the U. I had no idea that there were other locations, and we met in South Jordan.

Walking in it seemed that great care was taken to replicate (or at least resemble) the ‘underground’ look of the downtown location, with the graffiti-esque décor. The other thing I noticed was that it was HOT in there. Add the fact that we sat in the area upstairs, and it made for a really warm evening. I really like the long booths; plenty of space with no crowding, even for a bigger party.

Sitting upstairs made a few things inconvenient, like having to go downstairs to pick up the food, and to refill the drinks. Speaking of drinks: this was my first experience with a Coke Freestyle machine, which is essentially a soft drink fountain with a touch screen, giving you the ability to not only choose your drink, but also add flavor, equaling over 100 flavor possibilities. Pretty great, except that The Pie only had one machine, so the wait to refill your drink was always long.

The food itself was good. I’m pretty sure The Pie is a classic and traditional favorite among many locals, but I thought the pizza was just okay. We didn’t get a cheese pull-apart, which is what everyone said is their favorite thing, so I’d like to try that sometime. Instead we had garlic/cheese bread.

Overall, I think The Pie in South Jordan is an enjoyable place for a social night out. Go with your friends, or for a family night out, and have a slice!

So what did the Sassies and guest Sassy Evonne think of The Pie Pizzeria in South Jordan? Read on to find out!
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QUESTION
What was your first impression?

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THE SCOOP

Char: It is HOT in here.
Emily: A Coca-Cola Freestyle machine? Nice! Wait, is that a wood-burning stove? Cool…but holy crap, it’s hot in here!
Evonne: Cool atmosphere. Trendy. Great location…because it is close to my house. :)
Jenny: There’s a location of The Pie in South Jordan?
Stephanie: It seemed a little small when I walked in. I wondered where we were going to sit. I was pleased to see they had a large upstairs eating area. Oh… and they have a freestyle drink machine. Raspberry Diet Coke anyone?
Vanessa: It’s hot! It’s in the middle of winter and upstairs it was just uncomfortably hot. But you know…sometimes you ignore things like that for good pizza.
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QUESTION

What did you like the most?

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Char: I love the pizza. We’re The Pie regulars. I also love the cheese pull aparts and a chef salad.
Emily: I’ve been a Pie fan ever since my college days. My fave is still their pepperoni pizza and cheese pull-apart bread, both with a side of ranch.
Evonne: I loved that they didn’t skimp on the cheese, but I am lover of cheese.
Jenny: Have you seen this drink machine? You can get, like, over 100 different flavors of pop. From one machine. I liked the veggie pizza (no olives!).
Stephanie: I really liked the barbecue chicken pizza. It didn’t have has much cheese as the other pizzas which I really like. Plus… did I mention the freestyle machine?
Vanessa: The pizza! My favorite is BBQ Cilantro Chicken, Chicken Ranch and regular pepperoni. How relaxed the feel is of the resturant; lots of times I feel like going to a place like that rather than a fancy smanchy place.
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QUESTION

What didn’t you like?

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THE SCOOP

Char: As much as I love The Pie and I love Coke Freestyle machines, I have to say that the combination of the two is disastrous. The line was 8-9 people long most of the night and if you’re sitting upstairs and need to head down for a refill, you feel like you’re missing most of the meal.
Emily: I wasn’t impressed with their cheese garlic bread or the sweltering heat upstairs. It’s kind of ridiculous to have upstairs seating without waiter/waitress service I think. I had to keep getting up and down and there was serious foot traffic back and forth. But THE WORST part of it all had to be the single Coca-Cola Freestyle machine. YES, one machine for the ENTIRE restaurant and no other way to refill your drinks! I waited a good 10 minutes to refill mine. It was ridiculous! In fact, it was so bad it will keep me from going back to that location.
Evonne: I didn’t like that they only had one drink machine and it was downstairs. The line was huge and made it hard to want a refill and miss out on good company. Oh, and it was soo hot upstairs too. Just as bad, though, is when I took Savannah back and she started reading what was on the walls. Like on the back of her plate was written something about sucking d**k. :(
Jenny: That pop machine? Only one, which meant a perpetual long line. Also, when I get garlic bread and it just looks like a slice of bread from a bag, I feel disappointed.
Stephanie: I really don’t care for the amount of cheese on some of the pizzas. It is like cheese overkill. Also, there is only one drink machine and it is on the bottom level. Most of the seating is upstairs so it is inconvenient.
Vanessa: The subs & appetizers we tried. The vegetable sub tasted like a bunch of canned, mushy, un-fresh vegetables. Also there was only ONE fountain drink machine (the kind with the touchscreen that has all the different drinks come out of the spout) for the packed restaurant, which led to a long line. And it was really in the wrong place of the resturant.
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QUESTION

Would you refer The Pie Pizzeria to a friend?

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THE SCOOP

Char: Yes.
Emily: Not this location. I always tell people it’s worth the drive downtown if you want some of The Pie.
Evonne: Yes, I would. I would recommend they sit downstairs…hopefully it would resolve some of my complaints.
Jenny: Sure, if they live in South Jordan.
Stephanie: Yes. Everyone should experience The Pie at least once. It’s a Utah tradition.
Vanessa: YES! BUT…I don’t think it’s the best pizza in Utah like others do. Estes is by far the best and The Pie is trailing right behind it. And the pizza is heavy; you have to be in the mood for heavy pizza.
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QUESTION

If you could only send out one tweet about the business, what would you say?

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THE SCOOP

Char: Want to watch me eat an entire cheese pull apart? The Pie is the place it happens.
Emily: Love a pound of cheese on your pizza and a unique, original atmosphere? Check out The Pie’s original location. #utah
Evonne: Have you been to The Pie downtown? I had no idea they have other locations that are just as fab.
Jenny: Did you know that there’s a location of The Pie in South Jordan? With a cool pop machine? Don’t bother bringing your coat, it’s hot in there.
Steph: If your tastebuds delight at layers of cheese you should visit The Pie.
Vanessa: Feel like a heavy pizza in a relaxed atmosphere? Head on over to the pie & order a BBQ Cilantro Chicken or Chicken Ranch. Mmmm Mmmm.
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CHECK OUT THEM SCOOPS!

Here is the official SassyScoops.com rating for The Pie Pizzeria in South Jordan, Utah.
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Atmosphere	Family friendly	Location
Prices	Quality	Service

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Return to SassyScoops.com on Friday for our follow-up post on The Pie Pizzeria!

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If you live in Utah you likely have heard about The Pie Pizzeria. From the perfect crust to the layers of gooey cheese… it’s a legend around these parts.

The Pie is more than just a legend of delicious pizza. They have a great story:

Just a few steps off the University of Utah campus and your nose starts to tingle from the rich aromas of garlic and fresh baking Pie pizza dough. The mixed aromas pick you up, swirling you past colorful murals and old brick walls dressed in graffiti. The candle lit room filled with college students and professors seems neither crowded nor uncomfortable as people flow in and out for their Pie fix of the day. The University dine in location is open until 3:00 am on weekends, The Pie’s full motion Internet camera gives the world a peek at late night Pie junkies eating, drinking and sometimes even studying. The epitome of all college hangouts, you are now in what all Salt Lakers know as simply THE PIE!

In 1980, The Palmer family had a vision to turn the establishment into a great place for college students to relax, enjoy great food, study and listen to music. An immediate success, students came by the hundreds and The Pie grew from one location to five restaurants spanning Ogden to South Jordan and is still 100% family owned and operated today.

The Sassies recently had a chance to become part of The Pie’s rich and tasty history when we visited their new South Jordan, Utah location.

We learned The Pie is so much more than just pizza. They also have mouthwatering pasta, salad, wings, and subs on their menu.

You too can become part of The Pie’s history by visiting one of their five locations:

• The Pie Underground: 1320 E 200 S., Salt Lake City, UT 801 582-5700
• The Pie Salt Lake Delivery: 275 S. 1300 E., Salt Lake City, UT 801 582-5700
• The Pie Midvale: 7186 S. Union Park Ave., Midvale, UT 801 233-1999
• The Pie South Jordan: 10627 S. Redwood Road, South Jordan, UT 801 495-4095
• The Pie Ogden: 1225 E. Country Hills Drive, Ogden, UT 801 627-1920

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See what they are serving up on:

• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ThePiePizzeria
• Urbanspoon: http://www.facebook.com/ThePiePizzeria
• Yelp: http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-pie-pizzeria-salt-lake-city-3
• Website: http://www.thepie.com/

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Come back Wednesday to see if the Sassies and our guest Evonne succumbed to the inches of cheese at The Pie.

So what did the Sassies and guest Sassy Evonne think of One Sweet Slice in South Jordan? Read on to find out!
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QUESTION

What was your first impression?

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THE SCOOP

Char: SO CUTE! Why have I never crossed the street from Material Girls to check this place out???
Emily: Oh my gosh! Look how cute the decor is! And the cupcakes? Beautiful. Wait, what?!?! You have Italian sodas and frozen lemonade? SOLD!
Evonne: To-die-for decor and a perfect spot to take my little lady.
Jenny: I’m really impressed with the location of the store, and I’m surprised at how big the space is.
Kristina: The shop is really fun and adorable. It would be a great place for a shower or party.
Stephanie: I loved the high ceilings and whimsical decor. It has the feeling of an upscale boutique filled with the most lovely goodies. I would say it is a little on the side of fairytale like.
Vanessa: So excited to have the Sassies come try this place—I want to show it off to them! Love all the places to sit, cute decor, birthday table in the back and friendly smiles at the counter.
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QUESTION

What did you like the most?

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Char: I loved the atmosphere and the decor. I also enjoy the denseness of my raspberry chocolate cupcake.
Emily: The cake part of the cupcakes was my favorite thing ever. Super dense and super moist. The peanut butter one was delicious (I had to try this later because Steph wouldn’t share), as was the Almond Joy cupcake. The frozen lemonade was delicious too! Another favorite: hosting a birthday party there. My girls would love it!
Evonne: I loved that there was a spot all the girls could sit around and talk over a sweet treat.
Jenny: The drink options. I had the hot chocolate, and though I couldn’t finish it, I liked the idea of getting cocoa, or an Italian Soda, or lemonade. The chocolate raspberry cupcake was tasty.
Kristina: I loved the Snickerdoodle cupcake, and their French macaroons. I don’t normally like coconut, but their coconut tasted like a unicorn in my mouth.
Stephanie: I had a peanut butter cup cupcake. It was actually like eating a peanut butter cup. AMAZING. And the cake itself was truly the best cupcake I have ever eaten. I typically do not enjoy cupcakes. That cupcake changed my mind.
Vanessa: The Raspberry Chocolate cupcake; the flavors and choices of chocolate makes it a masterpiece. The brownies are yummy, the hot chocolate has ganache in it and the selection of flavors with the cupcakes is great.
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QUESTION

What didn’t you like?

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THE SCOOP

Char: I was not a fan of the cake bites, but that’s a personal (bizarre texture-related) problem.
Emily: Her version of the cake bite wasn’t my favorite. The taste and texture was just a little bit off for me.
Evonne: I personally wish I could have stayed longer to try more stuff. :)
Jenny: I had a tiny bite of a . . . what was it? Like, a cakepop without a stick . . . it was super dry.
Kristina: I really wish they sold milk. Their cupcakes were quite rich, and a nice glass of milk would have made everything better.
Stephanie: The coconut cookie thing I ate. Mostly because I don’t like coconut. It gets stuck in the back of my throat. Not my favorite.
Vanessa: The cake bites. Sweet Tooth Fairy perfected them and I don’t think any other nearby bakery should even try. The consistency was off for me with these cake bites. Also their carrot cake cupcake needs to be re-done I think.
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QUESTION

Would you refer One Sweet Slice to a friend?

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THE SCOOP

Char: Absolutely. The options for fancy and fab cupcakes in this neck of the woods are slim.
Emily: Already did. And that friend left a half dozen One Sweet Slice cupcakes on our doorstep a few days later. It was awesome.
Evonne: The cupcakes I tried, I loved…and I would most definitely send someone their way for a special occasion cake. Those cakes are off-the-chart amazing.
Jenny: Sure.
Kristina: Yes! I think their cupcakes were delicious, and they were reasonably priced. The shop is also really cute.
Stephanie: YES! I have convinced my sister-in-law that we need to take her little girls there for fun. They would love it.
Vanessa: Yes, I have many times! For cupcakes, personalized birthday cakes, to just hang out with friends and for wedding cakes. Owner is wonderful, cupcakes are moist and delectable and customer service is always perfect.
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QUESTION

If you could only send out one tweet about the business, what would you say?

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THE SCOOP

Char: Need cake in the south end of the valley? Check out @OneSweetSliceUT
Emily: Looking for a fabulous cupcakery in the south valley? @OneSweetSliceUT is the way to go, promise! #cupcake
Evonne: Planning a little girls party? Check out @OneSweetSliceUT…it is a dream.
Jenny: Have you been to @OneSweetSliceUT in South Jordan? Check out the beautiful cake decorating skills!
Steph: @OneSweetSliceUT… don’t let the name deceive you. It’s about the cupcakes.
Vanessa: @OneSweetSliceUT *IS* another cupcake shop in Utah. But guess what? THEY REALLY KNOW HOW TO MAKE THEIR CUPCAKES.
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CHECK OUT THEM SCOOPS!

Here is the official SassyScoops.com rating for One Sweet Slice in South Jordan, Utah.
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Atmosphere	Family friendly	Location
Prices	Quality	Service

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Return to SassyScoops.com on Friday for our follow-up post on One Sweet Slice!

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The Sassies had a fabulous time trying all the baked goodies from Red Riding Hood’s Basket. You know you’re eating delicious, good-quality food when you are about to throw up and yet you still can’t stop eating the brownies or truffles.

We were so engulfed in eating the yummy things, we didn’t even notice when the basket caught on fire and almost burned Jen’s house down! We didn’t know hot cakes were on the menu!

I personally love to bake and would be delighted to take one of Stephanie’s baking classes. I had an opportunity to see her in her element, in her culinary kitchen, and it was very clean and well organized. I’m always a fan of seeing where people cook so I can judge for myself that good standards are being practiced. I am very judgy.

The Sassies could not get enough of the peppermint brownies. Stephanie said that her peanut butter brownies were still in the experimentation stage, but I can safely say that all the Sassies would not only give two thumbs up, but a toe and a kneecap, as well.

I also loved the fact that you could tell the items were baked with good, organic ingredients and not with preservatives. I did have that weird aftertaste that a lot of baked items leave you with.

There has been a bit of controversy over our opinions over the cookies, as you can see by the comments on our review post. Many of the customers of Red Riding Hood’s Basket love the cookies and wouldn’t buy them from anyone else. The cookies were the least favorite item in the basket, so really the only way to settle the debate is for you to try them yourselves and form your own opinion!

GIVEAWAY!!!

One (1) lucky SassyScoops.com reader is going to win a CHEESECAKE valued at $30, flavor of your choice.

The flavors are: Chocolate Midnight, Mint Panache, Original, P-Nut Butter Cup, Pumpkin, Snickers Bar, Toffee Caramel (you can see pictures here.)

Entering is super easy. Just leave a comment on this post.

You can earn EXTRA entries too:

1 entry ~ “Like” Red Riding Hood’s Baskets on Facebook and leave a comment telling us you did.

1 entry ~ “Like” SassyScoops on Facebook and leave a comment telling us you did.

1 entry ~ Tweet about this giveaway with @SassyScoops and a link to this post and leave a comment with a link to your tweet.

1 entry ~ Update your Facebook status with a link to this giveaway and leave a comment telling us you did.

Happy entering! This giveaway will end on Saturday, April 30th at midnight MST.

All SassyScoops giveaway winners are notified via email.

So what did the Sassies think of Swirly Girls Gourmet Bakery on SoDa Row in Daybreak? Read on to find out!
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QUESTION

What was your first impression?

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THE SCOOP

Camille: LOVED the bright pink and blue colored walls. It just feels high on energy and sugar. Plus, the staff is very outgoing and friendly.
Emily: So very bright and cheerful and colorful! It might be the happiest bakery I’ve ever seen!
Kristina: The bakery was cute and modern. There wasn’t a lot of inventory left, but the owners said that they couldn’t keep the baked goods from flying off the shelves!
Stephanie: I loved how absolutely adorable the decor was. Then I saw the baked goods and wanted to eat them all!
Vanessa: I loved how the bright colors just popped late at night when I drove past their place. The colors are such fun and the owners seem to be just as fun and nice.
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QUESTION

What did you like the most?

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THE SCOOP

Camille: {coming soon}
Emily: The fact that they have an exclusive European baker that makes his own pastries, croissants, etc is pretty impressive. They looked fantastic, but I didn’t get a chance to try one.
Kristina: My favorite thing was their white chocolate raspberry bars. They were like a Snuggie for my mouth. I also had the opportunity to try the Ham and Cheese croissant, which was also excellent.
Stephanie: The peanut butter chocolate brownie was so yummy. And that says a lot because I am not the biggest fan of chocolate.
Vanessa: My husband was really impressed with the cinnamon roll and cupcake. I thought the cake was so soft and airy and light! I also really liked the eclair, lemon bar and raspberry bar. Also the customer service, owners and atmosphere of the bakery, not to mention everything is priced really really well.
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QUESTION

What didn’t you like?

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THE SCOOP

Camille: I tried the white cake and cake truffles. They just didn’t jump out as anything different than something you’d find in a grocery store. I’m hoping the cupcakes boast of more flavor!
Emily: I wasn’t a fan of the cake bite truffles. They were a bit too mushy and slightly off for my taste. I tried a few flavors and wasn’t much of a fan.
Kristina: I wasn’t a fan of their cake bites. They tasted rather bland. Also the tables had attached chairs, which means that if you are more on the fluffy side, it would be very difficult to sit in them.
Stephanie: The seating. It was not suitable for someone with a more “ample” figure.
Vanessa: I don’t know if we just got a bad batch of the cake bites but they were pretty awful; I think they need to redo the recipe. I also was not super impressed with the sugar cookies, brownies and truffles. Also didn’t love the seating—not too comfy.
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QUESTION

Would you refer Swirly Girls to a friend?

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THE SCOOP

Camille: Probably, if they were out in that area, I’d suggest they stop by and check it out.
Emily: I’ve already told my sister about it, and my daughter wants to visit after seeing the fun photos. Plus Swirly Girls does custom cakes, so that’s another reason for recommending!
Kristina: I would. I don’t know if I would recommend all their items, but I liked enough of the their items to recommend them. They are also in a cute location.
Stephanie: Yes and no.
Vanessa: Yes and no. The lemon bars and raspberry bars are really delicious AND unique so I would tell them to try thos, but there are so many other things I think need tweaking and reworking, I wouldn’t recommend the bakery entirely.
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QUESTION

If you could only send out one tweet about the business, what would you say?

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THE SCOOP

Camille: Finally, Daybreak has a bakery! Satisfy your sweet cravings at the Swirly Girls bakery! #Utah
Emily: Stop by Swirly Girls bakery for a cinnamon roll, slice of cake or sweet treat to go! #daybreak #utah
Kristina: {she’s still not on the Twitter}
Stephanie: Swirly Girls in Daybreak is a fun bake shop with lots of charm and goodies galore.
Vanessa: You MUST try the lemon bars and raspberry bars at Swirly Girls, super cute bakery and those two items are unique & a must try.
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CHECK OUT THEM SCOOPS!

Here is the official SassyScoops.com rating for Swirly Girls Gourmet Bakery on SoDa Row in Daybreak.

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Atmosphere	Family friendly	Location
Prices	Quality	Service

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Return to SassyScoops.com on Friday for our follow-up post on Wabi Sabi! We will have a yummy PROMOTION & GIVEAWAY for our readers!

Disclaimer: The Sassies were given a sampling of Swirly Girls Gourmet Bakery’s menu items in exchange for a review. How could we say no to dessert?

Like Camille, this was also my first time having sushi (and while pregnant—I know, shame on me) and can I say I was nervous? But Camille and I held hands and dove into trying sushi. One thing I didn’t realize…sushi is beautiful, or maybe Wabi Sabi just really is not the norm because I felt like they were bringing out works of art!

You really do have to eat it all in one bite and every single roll is like a new adventure. The staff was really great about walking us through the rolls that would be safe for us beginners and then what would be adventurous and fun for the other three other Sassies, including SassyStud Scott, to try. Camille and I went with the California (crab and avocado), Caterpillar (unagi, cucumber, covered in cucumber and unagi sauce) and then The Don (tempura shrimp, escolar, cucumber with avocado, tuna, salmon, crab, tobiko, green onion and crunchies). Then Stephanie, Emily and our guest sassy Scott, who are sushi pros, tried everything else under the sun on the menu!

But what if sushi isn’t your thing? Or if you are married to or dating a sushi LOVER but you just can’t get into it? Or maybe you just want some really great Japanese-inspired food? WELL, let me show you…

These ribs—plus many many more things—are AMAZING and sure to please anyone. Lastly, the desserts. They have FUN with them at this place; they are so inventive, like something you would see winning a Food Network challenge! Like their “sin” cake, a deep fried cheesecake, and then this seasonal dessert called “The Great Pumpkin”— so much fun and so yummy.

Two other fun things to know:

#1 You can rent the upstairs for parties or just a fun night for friends! And depending on how many in your party, you won’t have an extra charge. You can also have a sushi chef up there just for you! They have video game machines, projector screens and karaoke up there.

#2 Live music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, and it’s GOOD music too. It complements the restaurant and your experience; it doesn’t take away from it by being too loud or distracting.

Let us give you a short tour of the place so you can see how beautiful it is inside and how the sushi is stunning (and of course tasty too). You have to watch the ending for Stephanie’s awesome closing line!

Hopefully we have talked you into trying it for yourself! Don’t forget you can learn more about Wabi Sabi from the links below:

Website: http://www.wabisabiutah.com/
Twitter: @WabiSabiUtah
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wabi-Sabi-Japanese-Fusion-Sushi/129917813687498

P.S. They are having a great Valentine’s Day Special. Here is some info from their owner:

For Valentine’s day dinner we have several options. Guests can order off our regular menu with regular pricing, or for $35 a person they can participate in our special 5-course meal.

The 5-course meal features a choice of 1) pistachio, panko, asiago crusted Rack of Lamb with fig and Asian pear chutney, or 2) a Mangosteen glazed pork chop, or 3) wild rice stuffed chicken breast. The courses are a salad, two chef’s choice aperitifs (light, scrumptious and delightful), choice of main course, and choice of dessert (decadent chocolate cake, lemon buttercream or blueberry cheesecake).

We recommend making reservations immediately and make sure to RSVP if you would like the 5-course meal specifically, as it will only be available to those who make advance reservations.

We are offering a $10 off gift certificate per couple for those reserving a 5-course meal for two. You can redeem the certificate and prepay over the phone if you want to avoid getting a guest check at the restaurant that night, or you can pay at the end of your meal as usual.

As an additional bonus, we can also arrange to have a dozen lovely roses (wrapped by the florist next door) delivered to the table at the end of the meal for additional $40 ($15 off the regular pricing) if an advance reservation is made.

Call (801) 253-5700 between 5-9pm to make your reservation.

…

NOW for the part you have been waiting for . . . the GIVEAWAY!

One (1) lucky SassyScoops.com reader is going to win a $25 gift card to Wabi Sabi!

Entering is super easy. Just leave a comment on this post for your chance to win.

You can earn EXTRA entries too:

1 entry ~ “Like” Sassy Scoops on Facebook and leave a comment telling us you did.

1 entry ~ Tweet about this giveaway and leave a comment with a link to your tweet.

1 entry ~ Facebook about this giveaway and leave a comment telling us you did.

3 entries ~ Blog about this giveaway and include a link to your post.

Happy entering! This giveaway will end on Friday, February 11th at midnight MST.

All Sassy Scoop giveaway winners are notified via email.

Remember how much we love Oopsie Daisy in Daybreak? And the gelato at San Gelato Cafe? Now we have another reason to love SoDa Row in Daybreak: Wabi Sabi.

First a little bit about Wabi Sabi:

Wabi Sabi offers a collection of Japanese inspired meals that share a common thread of being healthy, flavorful, and different. Our New York trained executive chef artfully creates food that delights the customer in both taste and presentation. All of our sauces and menu items are house-made using fresh, all-natural, and organic ingredients.

Are you drooling yet? Just wait until you hear what’s on the menu.

How about mouth-watering wings with a creamy cilantro dipping sauce? Or Kobe-style beef sliders with caramelized onion straws and a side of seasonal root chips (delicious, might I add)? If you’re in the mood for seafood you could go for the wild salmon with tempura asparagus and Okinawa sweet potato. Salad more your thing? Try the Haru salad, which offers a spring leaf mix, avocado, cucumber, shredded beets and a light organic ginger dressing.

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And don’t get me started on the sushi rolls.

You’ll find everything from the beautiful Caterpillar (how do they slice that avocado so thin?) to the tantalizing Polar Bear to the Shrieking Eel. Don’t worry, those who prefer their rolls on the spicy side have options as well. (Rebel Roll, anyone?) The menu wouldn’t be complete without nigiri and sashimi, which you’ll find at Wabi Sabi as well.

For lunch you’ll find similar items but some great little combos and specials as well. I love their “Lunch Box,” which offers your choice of chicken, grilled salmon, tofu steak or beef with a California roll, veggie karage and gyoza with miso soup or house salad all for under $10. I know, I know…let’s meet there tomorrow!

I didn’t even get started on the seasonal desserts, but trust me, they will make your mouth water and your tastebuds dreaming of things like deep-fried cheesecake with a creamy, pureed strawberry sauce.

The Sassies can’t wait to tell you what they thought of Wabi Sabi, especially Camille who was a sushi virgin until our visit. You’ll hear her take (and ours) on this Japanese fusion and sushi restaurant on Wednesday! In the meantime you can check out Wabi Sabi on their website, Facebook and Twitter.

Aveda—high class but with a warm and friendly staff. Prices that represent the cleanliness, professionalism, high level of quality and all the wonderful products they use. You need to book a service at Aveda Life Salon and Spa to treat yourself this busy holiday season. Aveda Life Salon and Spa is giving SassyScoops.com readers 15% off when you book your appointment and mention you love SassyScoops! They can take care of ALL your salon and spa needs!

But first we wanted to show you a very important side of Aveda: how Aveda gives back to charities, the environment and wonderful causes. They do many things throughout the year but this one goes perfectly with your holiday shopping!

Aveda’s alliance with indigenous people and women artisans in Colombia helps support BETTER FUTURES FOR 400 FAMILIES and helps PRESERVE 400 RAINFOREST ACRES.

Earning money from gathering tagua nuts that naturally fall to the ground, Awa Indians in the foothills of the Andes and Afro-Colombians of the Pacific Coastal rainforest grow stronger. And help keep 400 rainforest acres standing.

Creating accessories from tagua nuts, women artisans—400 miles away in Bogota—earn income that provides for better health and education choices. In all, 400 families benefit—because you give a limited-edition Gift of Hope set with handcrafted tagua nut accessory inside.

Aveda’s tagua nut purchase for Holiday 2010 is the largest fair trade, sustainably harvested rainforest product export in Colombia’s history*—helping improve lives. When you give an Aveda gift set, you make a difference—with GIFTS BRIGHT WITH HOPE.

Here are the beautiful holiday gift packs they are referring to that help this beautiful cause AND they are available at Aveda Life Salon and Spa in South Jordan, Utah for you to buy!

Ritual of Relief (pictured above) perfect for those to whom you want to give some hand and foot relief!

Great kit to help anyone smooth and soften their hair during the dry Winter season.

“In the Colombian rainforest, indigenous women say they must ‘become as strong trees’ to protect life itself because the rainforest—and local wisdom—are disappearing.” Isn’t that beautiful? And you can help this cause with your holiday shopping this year.

NOW for the part you have been waiting for . . . the HUGE GIVEAWAY!

The giveaway that Aveda is offering is called a Life Journey package, which is basically a salon and spa sampler.

One (1) lucky SassyScoops.com reader is going to win a 30-minute massage, 30-minute facial, haircut and simple style and makeup application with eyebrow sculpting!

Entering is super easy. Just leave a comment on this post for your chance to win.

You can earn EXTRA entries too:

1 entry ~ “Like” Aveda on Facebook and leave a comment telling us you did.

1 entry ~ Tweet about this giveaway and leave a comment with a link to your tweet.

1 entry ~ Facebook about this giveaway and leave a comment telling us you did.

3 entries ~ Blog about this giveaway and include a link to your post.

Happy entering! This giveaway will end on Friday, December 10th at midnight MST.

All Sassy Scoop giveaway winners are notified via email.

So what did the Sassies think of Life Salon and Spa at The District? Read on to find out!
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QUESTION

What was your first impression?

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THE SCOOP

Camille: {coming soon}
Emily: Love the modern look and feel and the location. The staff was very welcoming—and very chic. This salon has a great vibe!
Evonne: Totally high-end . . . a place to be truly pampered!
Kalli: Love the modern and clean salon, and it smells so freaking good.
Kristina: The salon was very modern and chic. It seems like the kind of upscale place Justin Beiber goes to get his hair Bieberfied.
Michelle: I was happy it was at The District, which is really close to my house. Walking in, it felt really trendy with the girls all dressed in black. They were all really friendly and excited to get started. Olivia, the owner, did my style and glitter toes. She is so down to earth and loves what she does.
Quinn: Swanky place! Loved the atmosphere and how classy everything was.
Stephanie: The reception area was beautiful, open, bright, and had inviting displays. Oh, and I loved how close it was to my house.
Vanessa: Beautiful salon, very trendy and modern BUT with a staff that is warm and friendly, make you feel at ease. Everything is very clean, organized and professional.
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QUESTION

What did you like the most?

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THE SCOOP

Camille: {coming soon}
Emily: Again, the location is great. You could spend the entire day at The District after a cut, color and pedi. I also loved learning more about Aveda products. It’s been forever since I last used them and it was a good reminder of how naturally fabulous they are. But perhaps my most favorite thing was not a thing but a someone: Mandy, the resident massage therapist. She was amazing!
Evonne: They really do give you amazing service, from the scalp massage to the best hair cut!
Kalli: Getting my hair shampooed and the scalp and shoulder massage before and during. Seriously. I almost fell asleep.
Kristina: The staff were very friendly, and they laughed at everything that came out of my mouth. I plan to make them a part of my entourage.
Michelle: I loved that my style came with a scalp and neck massage. It felt wonderful! The frozen grapes were also nice treat. I like that the glitter toes last so long. Being 39 weeks pregnant I could not reach my toes and now they will look fun and sparkly for weeks while I neglect them while taking care of my newborn.
Quinn: My massage therapist was FABULOUS. When you get a massage at Life Salon and Spa, request Mandy! She gave a really awesome massage and was incredibly friendly, making everything so comfortable and enjoyable. Loved it!
Stephanie: I really liked my mini moisturizing facial. It’s the season when my skin starts to dry out and it was nice to have some hydration. And the staff. They were all so cheerful and friendly. They were so much fun and we giggled all night.
Vanessa: The quality of the service. Listen, sometimes in life you need to pay more for a higher quality. When it comes to your hair color, nails, cut of your hair, always go with better . . . even if it costs a bit more! To get a high quality cut or color that will last long and look superb, this is the place to go.
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QUESTION

What didn’t you like?

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THE SCOOP

Camille: {coming soon}
Emily: I didn’t really love the aftereffects of the foot treatment. Though it felt good while getting it, later that night the product sort of rubbed off like eraser shavings. It got everywhere. And though the massage pricing seemed spot on, the other treatments seemed a bit higher priced than what I’d normally pay even for a “spa” atmosphere.
Evonne: I guess I am just cheap; I have a hard time spending that much money on myself for most anything.
Kalli: That I couldn’t afford to buy every single product in there. Did I mention I love Aveda products?
Kristina: The prices were a bit on the high side. I got a glossing treatment and really couldn’t see or feel a difference the next day.
Michelle: I was not a big fan of the full length mirrors in front of the chairs the salon. Maybe I was self-conscious being 9 months pregnant, but I just need to see my hair, not my whole body.
Quinn: I flt a little jipped the pedicure I received didn’t include having anything done with my toenails, like painting or shaping. For the price, I would expect that. However, the pedicurist was lovely and I enjoyed the pedicure.
Stephanie: My foot treatment. My heels were still a little rough afterward, and the product they put on my legs peeled off. But the girl who gave me the treatment was just wonderful. It’s probably more the product that didn’t work.
Vanessa: Nothing. I have gone to Chelsey at Aveda for a couple of years and I wouldn’t keep on coming back if there were things I didn’t like!
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QUESTION

Would you refer Life Salon and Spa to a friend?

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THE SCOOP

Camille: {coming soon}
Emily: That’s a tough one. The staff does a fantastic job and the products are wonderful. If someone is in the area and is looking for an awesome massage therapist or Aveda-specific salon, then definitely yes. I’m sure they’re the best in the business. The same goes if someone is ooking to purchase Aveda products. But otherwise, I’d probably recommend my stylist (she’s half the price and does a great job) or the local nail salon (one-hour pedicure, massage and all, for half the price as well). Of course, they don’t use Aveda products and it doesn’t have a spa feel, but neither does my budget!
Evonne: Everyone loved my glitter toes, and I am definitely going to be doing a mother/daughter date for some fun at Aveda!
Kalli: Yes, yes I would. In fact I’ll probably be back myself.
Kristina: It depends. The prices were higher than the salon I go to, so I’m not sure. But if they lived in the area, and were willing to pay that price, definitely.
Michelle: Yes, it would make a great gift for someone or for yourself. Everyone can use a little pampering.
Quinn: I would recommend it to anyone looking to bundle treatments into one appointment, like a cut, color and massage. It’s the perfect location for that type of setup.
Stephanie: Yes. I love facials and they carry the soap my husband loves. Who doesn’t need a facial and soap?
Vanessa: Yes ,yes, yes. The price point is a bit more but not too far out there. The care that Aveda puts into every detail, especially the products they use (how earth-friendly and chemical-free they are) is worth the price!
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QUESTION

If you could only send out one tweet about the business, what would you say?

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THE SCOOP

Camille: {coming soon}
Emily: Looking for a fabulous Aveda-friendly salon? Life Salon and Spa @ The District is THE place to go. Best Aveda salon around!
Evonne: I don’t think that I have ever felt so amazing after a salon visit as I did with @Aveda at Life Salon and Spa.
Kalli: In need of some #Aveda treatments? Hit up Life Salon and Spa for a much needed beauty retreat!
Kristina: If you want to be one of the Joneses, and make your neighbors jealous, go to the Aveda Life Salon.
Michelle: Aveda Life Salon & Spa has the menu to satisfy your appetite for pampering. Indulge and feel the marriage of beauty and well-being.
Quinn: Check out Life Aveda at The District for a swanky day of pampering and styling in #slc South Jordan #utah! So fabulous!
Stephanie: Friendly and fun service and product galore. Aveda life salon is amazing.
Vanessa: Aveda Life Salon and Spa will meet ALL of your beauty needs at top notch quality and professionalism. Treat yourself!
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CHECK OUT THEM SCOOPS!

Here is the official SassyScoops.com rating for Life Salon and Spa.

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Atmosphere	Family friendly	Location
Prices	Quality	Service

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Return to SassyScoops.com on Friday for our follow-up post on Life Salon and Spa! We will have a yummy GIVEAWAY for our readers!

Disclaimer: The Sassies were given a sampling of the salon’s services in exchange for a review. Though the pampering was fabulous, we remained, aromatherapy oils and all.