View Point Inn -- Panoramic Paradise

It is curious that I would blog about an Inn three thousand miles away from DC. But while this forum is dedicated to reviewing social venues in the DC area, I see no harm in writing some choice words about the View Point Inn, a small bed & breakfast just east of Portland, Oregon. Who knows, maybe some of my readers are planning a trip out west.

July 4th weekend was my first time visiting the Pacific Northwest, much less Portland, and fortunately for me my girlfriend booked us for an evening at the View Point Inn. As a west coast “newbie” my preconceived notions of Portland were very much limited to what you might read in tourist pamphlets—a big city with small town charm, an amalgam of coffee shops and hipster lifestyle. But what I was most impressed with is Portland’s surrounding countryside. It is its natural resources that provide Portland with its greatest appeal, and the View Point Inn captures this with comfort and class.

Located approximately 20 miles east of Dowtown Portland, on Interstate 84, the View Point Inn is a quick jaunt from the city, and easily accessible. We spent the day about half an hour east enjoying the handful of wineries overlooking Mt. Hood, and concluded our outing at the View Point Inn.

There are four rooms, three of which share a bathroom, and although I was reticent about sharing a bathroom, it is not as inconvenient as you might think. It is very private, and the facilities are everything that you would expect from an upscale Inn. I am less than knowledgeable regarding personal care, but my girlfriend assures me that their L’Occitane products are top notch. We stayed in “Le Petite Alcove” room that although small, is incredibly charming, and runs around $125 per night. The Roosevelt Suite, which overlooks the Columbia River Gorge is about $350 per night, and has its own private bathroom. The view alone is worth it.

The service at View Point is impeccable. If you need anything, all you have to do is ask, and you will be accommodated. They are thorough, but not intrusive, and incredibly cordial. Upon arrival we were given complementary beverages from their unique cocktail list. I chose the “New Fashioned” a concoction slightly altered from its “Old Fashioned” counterpart. Bourbon and Ginger with muddled lemons and cherries, it was strong and refreshing. If bourbon is not your poison, there are a plethora of other cocktails, all of which are good (we pretty much tried all of them).

In the evening, you can relax at the bar, which is a converted garage (and very tastefully done) or you can mingle on the patio or deck, all of which have vibrant panoramic views of the Columbia River. You can pick your spot for dinner. If the weather is rainy, you can eat inside. The weather was gorgeous during our stay so we chose to dine on the manicured lawn—a front row seat for a dynamic and brilliant Portland sunset.

Our meal was excellent. It is curious that they serve Wild ATLANTIC Salmon as I was looking for some left coast flavor, but it was exceptional. Pan Seared to perfection and a hearty helping, I was completely satisfied. The roasted fingerling potatoes were a wonderful complement, along with the grilled asparagus that comes with the entrée.

Small, quaint, comfortable, gorgeous, relaxing—these words do View Point minimal justice. You have to experience it to truly get it. And even if you don’t want to spring for a room, a dinner reservation is all that you need to enjoy the ambiance, service, and relaxing vistas that the View Point has to offer. Many of the patrons were there just to enjoy an evening of tranquility. It is conveniently close to the city, and based on the July 4th attendance, is one of the best-kept secrets in Portland.

"Ritzy" West End Bistro

West End Bistro draws its personality from the Ritz Carlton, which sits adjacent to it on 22nd Street. Most of their patrons are corporate clientele or vacationers--exactly what you would expect from a psuedo-hotel bar. Singles, dressed to impress, congregate at their upscale bar. Meanwhile, couples generally occupy the dining floor, enjoying the delectable yet limited dinner menu. Large windows encircle the restaurant providing sufficient light, as well as the opportunity to observe passer-bys. There is not the pervasive feeling of confinement that accompanies so many hotel lounges.

The menu is mostly seafood, although they offer lamb, short ribs, and a sirloin burger for those craving red meat. The Grilled Flat Iron Steak was excellent, but the portion was small. For an appetizer, I recommend their oysters, which vary by season, but have been stellar on each of my visits. On one occasion we were given complementary caramelized popcorn as an appetizer. And while popcorn does not seem like an upscale starter, I assure you it is tastefully done and worth trying. Overall, culinary expert Eric Ripert, does an excellent job. I have never been dissatisfied.

There is usually a wait, so I suggest making a reservation. Even with a reservation I have found myself killing time at the bar while waiting to be seated. The staff is exceptionally cordial, and generally prompt. Additionally, the crowd is always lively, especially on the weekend, making West End Bistro a great place for a date, or a meeting spot with co-workers.

Smith Point – Where everyone is cooler than the next guy

My first two experiences at Smith Point didn’t happen. Why? I am not cool enough to be on the “list.” So you can imagine my sudden feeling of self worth when I was able to gain admittance. More intense was my curiosity surrounding what differentiates the Georgetown “in-crowd” from the marginal rabble that is my cohort. The answer is simple. My middle name is not Abernathy, and I do not have a Roman numeral following my last name.

Smith Point, as a venue, has so much potential. The exposed brick and candlelight creates a feeling of underground exclusivity. The music, a blend of classic 80’s and modern pop is an ideal dance mix. Even more convenient is the bar service, which is prompt. Smith Point has all of the necessary elements for a good time. My complaint is the general pervasiveness of narcissism and entitlement. The girls come in groups for the dancing. The guys compete for their attention with exposed bravado and an attitude of superiority. I am not accustomed to other guys commenting on my clothing, especially since I was dressed appropriately. Save it for the runway, slick.

It is the patrons that spoil the experience. You can be sure that your girlfriend will be looked up and down, like a piece of meat. And you can be sure, as a newcomer, to be judged. But don’t challenge them, because the response may likely be, “Do you know who my father is?” Toward the end of the night, the shadowy corners become impromptu hotel rooms, perhaps because no matter how nice “cool guy’s” residence may be, it is still his parent’s place.

Come to Smith Point, where you can consort with DC’s elite, or at least their children. But don’t let them sense weakness. Look them in the eye, and let them know that your trust fund is just as big, and that Daddy is right around the corner.

BRABO Restaurant - Upscale and Cosmopolitan

After visiting their tasting room recently, it was mandatory that I dine at their restaurant next door. And although I enjoyed the experience, I definitely like the Tasting Room better—more for the livelier atmosphere than anything.

BRABO is everything that you would expect from an upscale restaurant. The food is delicious and the service is impeccable. From the free valet parking to the informed and punctual wait staff, BRABO delivers the lavish experience that you would demand from a chic and fashionable establishment. The menu is a bit pricey, but comparable to its upscale counterparts.

The atmosphere is ultra cosmopolitan, reminiscent of the trendy restaurants that you might find in Manhattan’s more corporate neighborhoods. This makes sense, as it is conjoined with the Lorien Hotel & Spa and thus caters to their clientele. The ambiance is subdued, and relaxing—with dim lighting complemented by spa-like sconces. The chocolate colored walls with apricot accents further a feeling of tranquility. The elongated booths and leather chairs are distinctively lounge like, but are curiously juxtaposed with light blue Windsor chairs, which seem inconsistent with the otherwise comfortable décor.

The food was excellent, albeit the portions were a bit small. The Citrus Pepper Seared Ahi Tuna was a crowd favorite among my company, and there wasn’t a complaint to be heard--fresh, delectable and cooked to perfection. I had the Jumbo Asparagus with Maltaise Sauce for a side dish. The portion was small, and I question the use of the term “jumbo” but nonetheless it tasted good. Rave reviews were also had regarding the Grilled Lamb Tenderloins and Brabo’s inventive approach to the everyday Caesar salad, as they wrap it in prosciutto. For dessert, the Lemon Tart and the Triple Chocolate Mousse Terrine were exquisite.

Overall, I give them an A. The food and service are stellar, but if I had my pick, I would rather enjoy them next door at the Tasting Room where there is more action.

Crystal City Sports Pub - Gametime Nirvana

Crystal City Sports Pub rivals ESPN Zone with its capability for hosting sporting events. From the time you enter until the time you leave it is sensory overload—perfect for the sports fanatic seeking to lose their self in a plasma fantasyland.

The first level is the most expansive and family oriented section. And by family oriented, I mean I actually witnessed families dining there at Friday’s Happy Hour. The nuclear family was not the group that I expected to encounter at a sports pub, and true to form, that demographic dissolved over the course of the evening. In any case, the bottom floor is the most conducive to dining as it is more spacious and outfitted with larger tables. Still, you will not miss the big game if you are eating downstairs as there are a plethora of flat screens bearing down on you from every angle.

If you really want to immerse yourself in the game watching experience, walk upstairs. The second floor hosts another bar, and another series of HDTV’s as well as a state-of-the-art sound system. It can be loud at times, but you can count on witnessing every shoestring catch, every buzzer-beater, and every crunch time performance. And finally, if you seek the ultimate display of electronic splendor, visit their brand new non-smoking club level. It hosts one ten foot and two eight foot projection screen televisions, as well as numerous smaller ones for your viewing pleasure. The walls are decked out with sports memorabilia and there is sports ticker tape a la Wall Street. The accompanying scoreboards assure that you will never want for a score or gambling line, regardless of your sport of choice. The 27 foot ceilings add to club level comfort and the windows overlooking 23rd street provide light and the only connection to the outside world. Otherwise, it is a complete escape into sports utopia.

The menu is extensive, and what you would expect from a sports pub. What differentiates them from ESPN Zone is their patronage. I have found the franchise business model can often ostracize the local community in favor of a more corporate clientele. Crystal City Sports Pub has made an effort to coalesce with the surrounding environs, and it shows in the laid back and seemlingly tight knit cliques that frequent the venue.

Bugsy's Sports Bar - Upstate VA?

When I stepped into Bugsy’s Sports Bar, I was immediately transplanted from Old Town Alexandria to upstate New York—for better or worse. You would think Washington DC is a hockey town judging from this old yet cozy watering hole. If there is an ice hockey game being played, you can be sure they will be tuned in. But don’t expect to be watching it on upgraded plasma as their televisions are one step removed from necessitating a converter box. Bunny ears and tin foil anyone? Maybe this adds to the small town hockey atmosphere for some, but I enjoy actually seeing the puck go into the net.

Old sports memorabilia adorns the walls, most with local flavor. The owner is a former NHL player for the Washington Capitals (among other teams) so it makes sense that the bar would pay homage to the sport that he loves. The walls are brick and the wood flooring, barstools, and tables are all worn. There is a certain rustic charm that you cannot ignore, despite the need for electronic upgrades. The clientele? It is pretty much who you would expect to find at a Hockey game. Fans, clad in jersey’s or old t-shirts and jeans, down pitchers and smoke cigs. You don’t need to dress up, and the atmosphere is more-than-casual. The occasional late night argument between rival enforcers is not unheard of.

The food is good—standard bar fare, not expensive, but tasty. Also, you can choose to dine at the Pizza Restaurant downstairs if you so desire. The bartender is friendly, there seem to be a host of regulars, and with the Caps having their best season ever, why not?

Vapiano - Casual Dining with a Twist

Vapiano’s has discovered a way to eliminate the uncomfortable debate of how to split the check at the end of the night. Each customer receives a “chip” card that is scanned after every purchase. At the end of the evening, patrons check out at the front and cover their tab.

The result is a casual atmosphere that is remarkably fluid, as customers can sit at one of the many dining tables or linger at the bar without having to worry about closing and re-opening their tabs. It makes for a great meeting spot for co-workers and friends because people can come and go as they please without having to hastle with "settling up" before leaving.

And while the transition from one area to another is effortless, Vapiano’s has done an excellent job of delineating specialized sections for its patrons. Customers can order in the buffet style line where the cook makes your dish while you wait. Or, if you don't want to separate from the bar while your meal is prepared, they will give you a buzzer card that vibrates when it is ready. Alongside the kitchen are dining tables, ideal for larger groups. If you want a more social experience, you can congregate around the brick fireplace and dine in the lounge area at the opposite section of the restaurant. After dinner, transition seamlessly to the adjacent bar and enjoy a nightcap.

The food is fresh and distinctively Italian as most of their entrees are either pizza or pasta. Vapiano’s lacks intimacy, and might not be the best place to have a conventional first date, but it facilitates group congregation. Don't lose your card as you will be charged $100, and don't forget to leave a tip! Located at M and 18th street, Vapiano’s has revolutionized the casual dining and drinking experience.

O'Connell's - Alexandria's Authentic Irish Pub

Everybody loves an Irish Pub, especially when it is authentic, and this is exactly what O’Connell’s offers --authenticity. The wait staff and bartenders are predominantly Irish, and the décor is charmingly antiquated. Their vintage bars are over two hundred years old and there is endless antique paraphernalia adorning the walls, such as a turn-of-the century cigarette dispenser usptairs. Even the cupboard that stores the liquor bottles was recovered from an old Irish pharmacy. These relics must have cost a small fortune, but they augment the old fashioned Irish atmosphere. Three wood burning fireplaces complement the dark mahogany and exposed brick prevalent throughout.

O’Connell’s is located on King Street two blocks from Old Town’s waterfront. The colonial brick exterior belies its dimensions. From the outside O’Connell’s appears to be quite cozy, but upon entering, you’ll find a labyrinth of bars, dining rooms, and corridors. It almost feels as though you are navigating through an ancient castle. There are four bars, situated throughout restaurant, interspersed among the dining rooms. The main dining rooms are located upstairs and connected by an open corridor that overlooks the bar below. On fair-weathered days you can eat outside on the sidewalk, or enjoy a few cocktails on the patio overlooking King Street.

I have not eaten at O’Connell’s but their dining area is always bustling. The menu looks a bit expensive for Irish Pub fare, but again, this is personally unsubstantiated. For a drinking venue, O’Connell’s is excellent. There is always a lively crowd, and with four bars it is never overly cramped and always convenient for throwing back a few Guinness pints while watching your favorite football team on the tele.

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.

Town Hall -- Glover Park Convenience

So I found where everyone in Georgetown goes to pre-game for the Gin & Tonic late night dance scene, Town Hall. It too is located on Wisconsin Avenue, just a few blocks south. I am starting to realize what both of these establishments have in common, convenience.

Like Gin & Tonic, Town Hall doesn’t offer anything outlandish in terms of ambiance or theme; it is your general run-of-the-mill tavern. However, it is just far enough from Georgetown to avoid the weekend commotion, yet still accessible to young professionals who work in the city, many of whom live in Glover Park. On the weekends, it fills up to capacity, shortly after 10pm, and stays that way until close—providing for a lively atmosphere.

Town Hall is clean and organized, two important qualities that cater to its young professional patronage. Unlike Gin & Tonic, there is no dancing and drinks are easier to acquire, as it is far less crowded. If there was one episode last Saturday that illustrates the distinction between these two venues, it would be the group who ordered five Irish Coffee’s at the bar. This would never fly at Gin & Tonic. Not only would the bartenders be ill-equipped to handle such an order, but the chances of not spilling them are slim to none.

I have never eaten at Town Hall, but their menu is standard American cuisine. Dinner entrees like Dijon chicken, shrimp, and scallops go beyond your typical bar fare. This is a differentiating characteristic of Town Hall as it is more swanky than your typical pub. If you dine before 7pm during the week you will receive 15% off of your meal. And on Tuesdays they have half price wine night. But why settle for half price wine, when you can visit Bistro Lepic down the street for a free wine tasting?

As an outsider looking in, I have failed (until now) to grasp the appeal of the Glover Park social scene. But, like Gin & Tonic, Town Hall has something intangible for its visitors, convenience. They cater to the sizeable demographic that live in the area and who are actively searching for a central locale to meet up with friends. This is why they have a consistent following of regulars who visit time and again.

Firefly -- Caught in a Bottle

Walk southwest from Dupont Circle along New Hampshire Avenue, and you will find a small restaurant on your right called Firefly. The décor is comparable to that of a high school theatre set. As you enter, an overly large tree trunk greets you, serving as a centerpiece for the dining floor. It is large and unwieldy. Seemingly, its sole purpose is to accommodate the lanterns that hang from its branches, from which Firefly derives its name.

The forest theme is consistent, as the back wall is adorned with large imitation stones—clearly fake. The bar is polished wood, and less of an eyesore, but inconveniently placed near the encroaching tree. The entire room feels cramped, and dark. The lighting is a plaque-like yellow, complemented by the kitchen window, which is also tinted. There is a distinct lack of crispness. They are trying to create a refreshing sensation of a Summer evening, but they fall short. The theme is overly contrived and a bit suffocating. I felt more like I was in an amateur rehearsal of A Midsummer Night’s Dream than an upscale restaurant.

The food is decent but way overpriced. The hamburger I ordered was fine, but 17 dollars is a bit much. My friends tried the seared sea scallops and the roasted organic chicken (both dishes cost more than 25$) and while there were no complaints, I didn’t sense any substantial enthusiasm. Their beer menu is rather limited as well--although I did try a Troegs Dreamweaver Wheat and thoroughly enjoyed this Pennsylvanian ale.

All in all, Firefly just doesn't live up to the upscale experience that it markets itself as. The ambiance is confined but not intimate, and sometimes claustrophobic. And the food, while good, is not worth the price tag. I have to acknowledge, despite my grievances, that there is frequently a wait to be seated; perhaps evidencing that there is a multitude that will take exception with my critique.

Bistro Lepic -- A Social Wine Bar

I was nervous when I walked into Bistro Lepic to partake in their free wine tasting. Since I do not have the most exacting palette, nor am I educated about French wine, I was naturally uncomfortable. Specifically, I was worried that there would be an element of “cultured pretension” that sometimes accompanies upscale wine bars. However, I was delightfully surprised with the welcoming demeanor of the bartender and its patrons. The bartender (sommelier is a more accurate description) was engaging and pleased to answer all of my questions, regardless of how elementary they were. There were times during the evening when I felt like I was in an upscale version of Cheers. A host of regulars converge on the bar during happy hour. Familiar with the establishment and each other, they help create a cordial and relaxing environment. The ease of stimulating conversation and abundance of attentive faces made for a delightful evening.

Bistro Lepic is located off Wisconsin Avenue in northern Georgetown, and its unassuming facade mirrors its general aura of acceptance. On the ground floor is the restaurant, where I have not yet had the privilege to dine. The upstairs wine bar conveys a confluence of decor styles--here East meets West. The walls are adorned with full murals, distinctively European, while Asian style wall lamps line the perimeter. Meanwhile, low wicker chairs enhance a lounge type atmosphere. Dim lighting and relaxing music make it an ideal setting to converse over a light meal, and the food is excellent. I can personally vouch for the sautéed sea scallops with ginger broccoli mousse and light ginger butter. Their selection of cheeses complement their extensive wine list. Ask the sommelier what goes well with what—his recommendations are insightful and accurate.

Drop in between six and eight on Tuesdays to participate in a free wine tasting. It is a great marketing device as Bistro Lepic sells itself. Not only will you have a wonderful evening, but like me, you will be eager to return.

Pizzeria Paradiso -- Their Name Says it All

I am not a pizza connoisseur. I tend to enjoy it anyway it is served—hot, cold, thin crust or deep dish. That being said, I can appreciate a good pie when I have one, and that is exactly what Pizzeria Paradiso delivers.

What differentiates the pizza here is the crust. They cook all of their pizza in a wood-burning stone oven, visible to all in the front of the restaurant. It is their crispy-on-the outside, warm-on-the-inside brick oven taste, complemented by an array of fresh toppings that makes their pizza so good. I ordered the Margherita 12 inch, adding some red peppers and black olives. It was excellent. To drink, they have an ample selection of wines and an extensive collection of imported bottled beer. They also have beer on tap if you are so inclined.

They have two locations, in Georgetown on M Street and in Dupont Circle on P Street. I dined at the Dupont Circle location, which will be moving next door to a larger venue still under construction.

The service is excellent, and the restaurant is popular enough that there is often a wait for a table. Still, they have good turnover, and despite not having a table, and being fourth in line, my girlfriend and I were seated in no more than ten minutes. The excellent pizza, selection of drink, and reasonable prices make Pizzeria Paradiso a great place to meet friends, or for a casual date.

Layla's Lowly Lebanese Restaurant

Hungry and cold, my girlfriend and I wandered east on King Street looking for a restaurant where we could recharge and dine. We happened upon Layla’s, a Lebanese restaurant on the corner of King and Alfred. Having never eaten Lebanese food, and my girlfriend being an advocate, I decided to give it a go. Big Mistake.

The red neon sign reading “open” should have been a harbinger. It is the type of marketing practiced by gas stations aimed at getting the attention of night-weary passer-bys. Little did I know, that by the end of my meal, I would be craving a pre-made sandwich from the Exxon station. Layla’s was THAT satisfying. Please don't mistake my negativity for naivete. Because although it was my first Lebanese experience, my girlfriend assured me that it was also the worst meal she has ever tasted.

As you walk into Layla’s, there is a small bar to the right--besieged by putrid yellow pastel walls. Since my visit I have made it a point to glance in when I pass (because I am dumbfounded as to why anyone eats there) and the bar is usually occupied by one or two unkempt patrons watching television and chain-smoking. The walls are complemented by the tacky purple curtains separating the bar area from the dining room (whose walls are decorated in a slightly more tolerable orange).

The décor isn’t even the problem at Layla’s—it’s the food. We ate only an appetizer, unable to stomach the thought of an entrée. We ordered “Layla’s Special Appetizer Platter” thinking it would provide enough of a variety to enable me to learn more about Lebanese food. The platter consisted of Hommos (dip made from chickpeas), Baba Ghannouj (dip made from eggplant), Tabouleh (chopped parsley, crushed wheat, tomatoes and onions), Grape Leaves (vine leaves stuffed with rice and parsley), Spinach Pies (bread dough turnovers with chopped spinach leaves), and Falafel (deep-fried chickpea patties).

The platter looked and tasted as though it had been sitting out for a week. The Falafel was so dry that it had the consistency of hockey pucks. The Grape Leaves had no taste whatsoever and looked like they had been rolled on the floor. The Hommos, a dipping paste that I usually enjoy, had a soupy consistency and was bland. The Spinach Pies were not terrible, but after having tried the other “un-appetizers” I couldn’t even eat them. My girlfriend and I, embarrassed at not even denting the stale mess in front of us, took to hiding the appetizers in the Baba Ghannouj so as to make it appear to the waitress that we had eaten.

I hope that our visit was an anomaly, and that the waitress accidentally served a platter from the prior evening. Perhaps their entrees are better than their appetizers. And maybe I am giving Layla’s an unfair rap. But I won't get the chance to find out as I will never eat there again.

Clarendon Grill – Bring Your Hard Hat

The decorative scheme at Clarendon Grill is obvious. From the scaffolding on the ceiling to the embedded nails, hammers, nuts, and bolts at the bar, patrons are reminded that they are in a construction site. I understand what they were going for, I just can’t figure out why. Do young professionals secretly yearn to toil nine hour days in the piping heat, after which, they can crack open a few cold ones with their worker buddies? Is Clarendon Grill this fantasy realized?

Despite the odd choice of décor, Clarendon Grill is an ideal venue for entertainment. As you walk in, there is a lower level to the right where various bands set up. The floor is expansive enough to enable dancing and mingling without too much discomfort. Gonzo’s Nose, an 80’s and 90’s cover band, was playing on my last visit. They were extremely entertaining and managed to sound surprisingly like the original artists they mimic—from Duran Duran, to Everclear, to Gwen Stefani. The list is an extensive one. Fans can even visit their website to purchase the must-have of all fanatic attire, the Gonzo’s Nose women’s thong. I digress.

The Bar is set above the dance floor, and albeit by only a few feet, it offers a great perspective for not only watching the band, but for scrutinizing the often overly-intoxicated crowd on the dance floor. Perhaps the greatest feature of Clarendon Grill is the patio. It allows for a much needed escape to those whose ears are ringing, or to those with a nagging cigarette craving. When the weather is nice, the patio is a place to relax with friends--especially now, since they have used some of the construction paraphernalia inside to renovate it.

Clarendon Grill is comfortably expansive, thoroughly entertaining, and well worth the 7$ band cover. So bring your hard hat, and enjoy whatever weekend entertainment they have on tap.

Bilbo Baggins -- A cozy Bar for Beer and Buddies

There is a comfy local restaurant in Alexandria that lies off King Street’s beaten path. Walk north to Queen Street and follow it towards the Potomac. On your right, you will find a warm and cozy watering hole named Bilbo Baggins.

The atmosphere inside is incredibly warm—worn wooden tables complement the fireplace and the delightful demeanor of the wait staff. I would liken the ambiance to that of a ski-lodge. Patrons come in tight knit groups to enjoy each other and an ample selection of wine and beer. Bilbo Baggins boasts a selection of over 150 wines and a number of micro-brewed imports. Personally, I am always drawn to the Belgian Ales-- Chimay, Duvel, and Delirium Nocturnum. They are relatively expensive, but after you taste them and feel them, you will know where that money went.

Bibo Baggins is great for a group of friends, old or new. The atmosphere is not conducive nor does it cater to the local singles scene. It is a cozy place to “catch up” and if the conversation wanes, look no further than the Trivial Pursuit cards stacked in rocks glasses at the bar.

Filomena - A Great Value In Georgetown

Perched off of Wisconsin Avenue, Filomena's in the heart of Georgetown. My experience with Georgetown Restaurants has been that they are usually good but overpriced. The food at Filomena's is excellent, and although the price tag is comparable to other local restaurants, the portions are massive making it an exceptional value.

Filomena's has an array of appetizers. I can personally vouch for the "Bruschette Con Pomodoro" and the "Scampi alla Zia Katie" both of which were excellent. For an entree, the "Pollo alla Parmigiana" is outstanding. The chicken is tender, served breaded and piping hot under a salty tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. The serving is so large, I could only try the side of penne pasta--also very good.

They have a relatively extensive list of Italian wines--especially red. Personally, I enjoy their Chianti and Sangiovese based selections. And after dinner, you can look forward to a complementary carafe of Sambuca and Amaretto complete with coffee beans. And if you have any room left in your stomach their desert list looks amazing. I have yet to try one.

The atmosphere at Filomena's is quite festive. The small unassuming entryway belies the open and grandiose interior. Situated to the right of the entrance is a small room where their "Pasta Mama's" handmake the pasta--adding to the Italian flavor. Their dining floor decor borders on intrusive but adheres to the current Holiday theme and is jovial. Currently they are decked out for Valentines Day. My only complaint, politics aside, is that the stuffed donkey at the entrance overshadows the hospitable maitre de. But I suspect they will take it down after the novelty of the new administration diminishes.

Overall, Filomena's is an excellent venue for a date, a business meeting, or a get-together with friends. Your experience will justify why it has been voted DC's best Italian restaurant three years running.

Bookbinder's - Steak Heaven

5. Wolfgang's 4. Bobby Van's 3. Smith & Wollensky's 2. Peter Luger's and the number one place to order a filet mignon, medium rare.........Bookbinder's. That's right, I still can't believe I am ranking an Alexandria Steakhouse above the Mighty New York Four--but I am. Bookbinders' filet is the best I have ever had; crispy and sweet on the outside, tender and succulent on the inside--cooked to perfection.

Bookbinder's of Old Town delivers in all aspects. Their steaks and lobster are top notch, and their steamed asparagus, al dente, with Hollandaise, is excellent. And as good as the food is, the ambiance is even better. The exposed brick, spiral staircase, and iron chandeliers are all charming. A small outside alcove is perfectly romantic. Shaded by a large tree and saturated with potted ivy, there is a distinctive garden feel. It peeks out onto St. Asaph Street, one of the quaintest streets in Old Town, famous for its colonial flavor.

Bookbinder's is a great place to take family, friends, or that special someone.