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Video FeedBack: Art and Soul

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By Kate Nerenberg   Published Thursday, October 23, 2008

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My friend Lisa and I were there the first night they were open to the public last Friday. The atmosphere is nice but the location is a bit out of the way unless you live on the Hill. Many service kinks need to be worked out, mainly in the timing department. We waited a long time for service and when it arrived it was a bit rushed and a bit pushy on particular menu items. We were in no hurry but felt like the server was. The gaps were long enough to make us feel neglected, but then when it was on, it was on full-bore. The G.M. came to check on us and made amends with some free glasses of wine and free dessert to cap the meal, and she was very apologetic. When we heard it was only their second night, the first after the grand opening, we understood some of the issues. By any description, the standout was the food--well presented and in interesting combinations. The oysters were top-notch, perfectly chilled and with a well-matched relish. I had the steak and the meat was fantastic in quality and cooked perfectly. My companion’s fish dish was interesting in its flavors, but the combination was a little unexpected so less successful than other items we had. In all, not blow-your-mind inventive, but solid, crowd-pleasing food in the now generally standard "locally sourced" tradition. I think with improved service--which wouldn’t take much, perhaps a bit more staff--this place would come recommended to those looking for an introduction to high-end Southern/Chesapeake cuisine.

Posted by: Adrian, Oct 23, 2008 01:08:47 PM

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