by Ronny Green
There is a popular scenic print of New Orleans, Canal Street to be specific, taken during the hustle and bustle of a late evening with streetcars on the tracks and people caught in the moment making their way up and down the crowded street. I’ve seen this photograph in many businesses around our great state and, each time, I gaze longingly as if I can hear the sounds and smell the atmosphere of the “Big Easy.” An Alexandria transit trolley passes just as I’m rounding the corner of 3rd Street walking up to the Hotel Bentley. In its grandeur, it sits shining against the backdrop of the night, its colossal columns and rich, luxurious outdoor architecture giving me all the feelings of a convivial weekend in New Orleans.
My mission this weekend is to ensure the Hotel Bentley is staycation, baecation and “girls night out” ready. As soon as you walk into the lobby of the Bentley, you can’t help but marvel at the impressive crown molding, chandeliers and interior design work done in 1907. Inside the room, I’m met by a charming view of the Red River and the Jackson Street bridge. After we drop our bags and freshen up, it’s time for the shenanigans to commence.
A round of French 75s (gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, splash of champagne, yum!) to go with a dozen charbroiled oysters set the tone for the evening. Before we can finish those off, an impressive spread of chicken parmesan sliders makes its way to the table. These bad boys aren’t your typical sliders. This is all the full meal goodness of chicken parmesan in a handheld big size snack … delicious.
The Mirror Room is buzzing this evening as the World Series plays on the big screens and the drinks continue to flow. Next up, we’re treated to my favorite small plate option of the night . Buffalo chicken nachos, a hot sauce beurre blanc dip served with tortilla chips, backed with red onions, blackened chicken and blue cheese. Next time, I’m definitely ordering a personal batch. Finally, for dessert, extremely flavorful bananas foster cheesecake.
Whether you’re staying one night or the weekend, I highly recommend waking up early enough to open the drapes, greet the morning sunshine and head downstairs to the Bentley Room for brunch from 9-2. With the current restrictions on how bars and restaurants operate, and not having live music or bands, Manager Tim, Chef Matt and the staff have created an array of tapas, or small plates, and premium craft cocktails as a way of giving visitors to the Mirror Room a great dining experience as they enjoy the ambiance and the evening.
Consider tapas at the Mirror Room as the new happy hour and the Hotel Bentley as your next local destination for a quick, unforgettable getaway.
Visit our Website: https://www.visithotelbentley.com/
