Sietsema's Spot On

My husband and I recently returned to 2941 for a Mother's Day dinner and while the food was perfectly executed as usual, the entire experience lacked the personal touches that made 2941 our favorite restaurant in DC. Sietsema's review of 2941's makeover is spot on. It's not about the economic costs of running a high caliber restaurant. Frankly, the prices are the same but the personal attention to the client and the avant garde nuances of each dish were no longer there. We loved 2941 because it was a formal dining experience that was never really formal but very personal. Now, it is like "eating filet mignon on a paper plate," as Sietsema put it. And honestly, I will take umbrage at that.

Review of Sietsema's Review of 2941

I have waited to see if my initial reaction to Sietsema's review would change. It has not. I wrote to him on March 25 and he quickly replied "Your thoughtful, detailed (and civil!) missive merits more of a response than I can respond to right now." My complete review (not enough room here) is on urbanspoon under 2941. This is the gist: "Tom, I think you missed the point. To turn a phrase attributed to James Carville, 'It’s the economy, stupid.' Do not take umbrage at that, but rather help us better understand the bottom line of your review. Should we go to 2941 or not? And of course, the answer in my humble opinion is a screaming YES!” I agree with other reviewers - a fresh perspective as critic may re-establish the Post's credibility.

Wonderful Food, Wine & Service to Share

Tom Sietsma's review of the revamped 2941 reflects so many of our generation who have difficulty adapting to change. The real question is whether his tastes and opinions still reflect those of restaurant patrons in the DC area - young AND old. I found the 2941 service, food and atmosphere to be fresh and vibrant, without the interference of layers of formality. The menu's humor and variety offers ample opportunity for interaction with meal companions while deciding on multiple dishes to pair with fabulous wines. Reviewing only a month after 2941 has reopened does a disservice to a new kitchen and adapting staff. Tom should adapt and consider DC restaurants as we do: Places to relax &/or network over a meal, not complain about a missed past.

Siestma misses the point.

Tom Siestma's recent negative review of 2941 is uncalled for. He is obviously more concernced about the absence of linen than he is about the quality of the food, which has not changed. The Post should think seriously about finding a food critic who actually knows something about food. Siestma is the guy who gives multiple stars to the Minibar (a half-dozen stools) yet complains about a picture at the new 2941, Siestma is the guy who tells you that community goat or pig meat at Komi somehow makes that the "best restaurant." Sorry, but I thin Siestma is a "trendy," who wouldn't know a decent dish of food if someone threw it in his face. Get real, Post, and get a decent food critic.

Love The New 2941!

My wife and I went there recently and had a great experience. The food was very good, just not as expensive as it used to be. The bar was much more lively. Service was fine.

Delighted with the “New” 2941!

We visited the re-imagined 2941 last week and had a fantastic dinner. Starting at the bar--livelier than we’d ever seen it--we had a delicious signature cocktail, a Green and Tonic, some blue point oysters and our favorite tuna tartare. In the dining room we enjoyed the less formal atmosphere. We tried two pastas—Forest Delicacy and Raviolini--which we shared with greedy delight. All our entrees were scrumptious and elegant. Our server, Jessica, was helpful, charming and always available without being stiff or intrusive, and the Sommelier, Jonathan, graciously helped us select two perfect wines. For dessert we shared a beautiful fruit and meringue confection. The evening lived up to our expectations, and we’re eager to visit again!

Not What It Used To Be

My wife and I loved coming here when this place was under the helm of Jonathan Krinn. Since he left, the place has gotten increasingly less pleasant. On my last visit, the food was mediocre at best - - prosaic salad, a tasteless dish of ravioli swimming in butter, and a less than satisfying dessert. We will not be going back.

Outstanding private dining experience

Had a special birthday celebration with discerning guests who ALL raved about the 2941 experience. Room (Tasting Room) was very nice; every dish was excellent, service very attentive and anticipated virtually every need. Portions plenty large; after reading previous reviews I asked and was told they increased them awhile ago. No issues with children or with guide-dog-in-training. I did go there in advance and then sent VERY specific directions from Route 50 with invite, including specifics to get to valet and for parking in garage for those who prefer not to valet. This helped alot. Prices are not cheap, but do compare favorably with going into DC for a comparable venue.

Loved the food...

...the service, not so much. My wife and I used to go here all the time when we lived in Arlington. Our first trip back in 6 years, the food did not disappoint at all. I had a venison sausage that was as tasty as anything I'd eaten in 3 years. My wife's dessert was likewise incredible. But the service, which I remembered as being warm and relaxed while remaining professional and efficient, was as stiff as a board. We were absolutely ignored for the first 7 minutes or so after being seated, and throughout our waiter clearly made more priority for other tables. It wasn't jaw droppingly bad, by any means. It just wasn't what I remembered or expected for those prices. But the food will certainly compel us to try it again, I'm sure.