INTERIOR DESIGN

Read the the Santa Cruz Sentinel review of Mimi Snowden's redesign of trendy restaurant Aqua Bleu . . .

"There's the rub about a new restaurant, especially one that opens to high expectations: consistency of quality usually must evolve and stabilize over time. In the case of Aqua Bleu, the venue's decor overseen by multitalented caterer and restaurateur Mimi Snowden is nearly flawless, placing even more pressure on the food and service."

Read about Mimi's "extreme makeover" of Santa Cruz Vida Lounge and Grill

"Teaming up with restaurant consultant Mimi Snowden, they started by remodeling the interior of the spacious building, wreaking delightful havoc on the existing floor plan and overhauling an admittedly inconsistent menu. More than a decade of habits disappeared in barely four months, replaced by a crisp, organic ambience that's a balance of sexy, earthy elements, quality staffing and a menu full of food you'll want to eat again and again."

Santa Cruz Life review of Vida Lounge and Grill . . . touting Mimi's sizzing design work

Good Times Weekly review of Vida Lounge and Grill

Other news . . . from christinawaters.com

"Aptos residents — and the rest of the county for that matter — can look forward to a new Eastern Mediterranean culinary bazaar to open in April. On the site of the former Breadstix, the new spice island will be called Zameen — decor by Mimi Snowden. Stay tuned. -- 25 Jan 2007"