BRABO Tasting Room -- Bravo for BRABO

From the man who brought you Brasserie Beck and Marcel’s, Robert Wiedmaier now presents BRABO in Old Town Alexandria, and he delivers once again. Specifically BRABO Tasting Room, adjacent to main dining room, is a perfect place for congregating with friends.

As you enter the tasting room you cannot help but notice that everything is brand new. A pristine stainless steel and brick oven greets you upon entering. The walls are painted pure white, contrasted by the black nautical decorations—simple yet sleek. There is nothing superfluous about BRABO. It’s brick flooring combined with the unadorned décor create the perfect balance of contemporary and rustic. I felt as though I was being entertained in a magnificent Tribeca loft as the ambiance and service are that personal.

Situated in the middle of the tasting room is an elongated table at which patrons stand, eat, imbibe and socialize with friends. Private booths offer a bit more seclusion and look out onto King Street. But don’t visit the tasting room if you are seeking quiet conversation. The atmosphere here is electric, and at times a bit noisy. But this only accentuates the tasting room’s purpose--a casual and lively dining experience with friends. Those looking for a more romantic evening can visit the main dining floor next door.

The service is impeccable; formal and considerate but also friendly and engaging. Our meal was brought out in a timely fashion and we actually enjoyed our dialogue with the waiter. It is a rare experience to be served not only a delicious meal, but meaningful discourse. For an appetizer we split the signature mussels, steamed in a classic white wine garlic, shallots, and parsley sauce. It was a meal in itself, and the perfect social food for those who are just as interested in conversing as eating. For my entrée I had the Five Onion soup and the Oven Roasted Chicken sandwich. Both were amazing, and so filling that I opted out of desert. To drink I had a Westmalle Trapist Tripel, a thick-headed Belgian beer. I must have enjoyed it, as I ordered three.

I look forward to dining at BRABO, in their main dining room. But for a social get-together with friends, the atmosphere, the service, and the food at BRABO Tasting Room are all A+. It is a must visit.