Daily dispatches on the Washington, DC area's food, restaurant and dining scene.

Euro-Chain Vapiano Makes Its Debut

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By Emily Brown   Published Friday, April 27, 2007

How hip can Ballston be? Don't get me wrong, I love the place. It's my neighborhood and I appreciate its urban/suburban mixture. But when models in tiny black dresses greeted me at the opening of Vapiano on the corner of Glebe Road Wednesday night, it was hard not to roll my eyes.

The first area outpost of the Germany-based pasta franchise is trying to set the tone for a  trendy, yet casual dining experience. There are 20 Vapianos around the world--with stores in Istanbul, Vienna, Dubai and Budapest--and they’re making their US debut with three DC locations, here in Ballston, near Dupont Circle (18th and M streets) and in Chinatown (623 H St., NW). The downtown spots are scheduled to open in May and June, respectively.

Comments

Went one of the first few days Vapiano was open. Cool vibe and surprisingly affordable eats. Pasta was excellent, good place to meet friends or for business lunches

Posted by: Kris,

Ate at the Vapiano yesterday...I enjoyed the food, and the place adds a unique concept to Ballston.

Posted by: Andrew B,

We tried it on April 30th and weren't impressed. The pasta dishes were fairly bland, the hostess who oriented us spoke with such a heavy accent that it was difficult to understand her (it's an unconventional food ordering/paying experience, so you need to be oriented the first time), the $8 glass of wine was not a generous pour, and the club music was way too loud. While it may be a good place to go with a bunch of friends if you can take over a whole table, we'd hate to go in a small group when it's crowded, since there are no small tables indoors and you have to cozy up with strangers. That said, the salads were fresh and the staff was friendly and attentive. We'll probably try it again when they've gotten through their growing pains, but for now, it seemed to be more image than substance. For nouveau Italian, the food quality and selection, not to mention ambiance, are much better at Pinzimini next door in the Westin.

Posted by: Lisa,

We loved it but can easily see how it could be very confusing for first timers. I recommend going for lunch on a Sunday...they open at 11. Very laid back and easy to figure out with no crowd. The food was fresh and delicious, kind of like an Italian Chipotle with more selections. Definitely a different dining experience. Truely reminded me of my months spend in Europe. I look forward to working my way through the menu.

Posted by: scott, Jun 11, 2007 12:58:12 PM

I love Vapiano. It is fresh food!!
I can watch the chefs, which gives me a convenient feeling about hygiene. I can also determine, how much salt, garlic I want or which ingredient I'm allergic to, so they leave it out.
The ambience is open, modern and easy. No waiter bothering me to leave "his" table by passing me the check inconspicuously. The perfect place to meet new people.
Americans, wake up! I haven't seen so many obese people in Europe. Maybe it is time to change eating habits?!

Posted by: T.N., May 04, 2007 05:28:11 PM

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