Ask Tom

Tom Talks Shop

In a city loaded with diverse restaurants, from New American chic and upscale Italian to sandwich shops and burritos on the run, finding the best places to eat can be a real puzzle. Where's the best restaurant for a first date or an anniversary? Father's Day? What's the best burger joint? Who has the best service?

Ask Tom. Tom Sietsema, The Washington Post's food critic, is on hand Wednesdays at 11 a.m. ET to answer your questions, listen to your suggestions and even entertain your complaints about Washington dining. Sietsema, a veteran food writer, has sampled the wares and worked as a critic in Washington, Seattle, San Francisco and Milwaukee, and can talk restaurants with the best of 'em. You can access his Postcards from Tom to read his recommendations for other cities, read his dining column, First Bite and the Dish or read transcripts of previous "Ask Tom" chats. Tom's Sunday magazine reviews, as well as his "Ask Tom" column, are available early on the Web.

For more restaurant chatter, join Sietsema's Table, Tom's new discussion group about dining experiences.

The transcript follows.

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Silver Spring, Md.: Tom, you may have already mentioned this somewhere, but haven't seen it in your chats lately -- Nava Thai in Wheaton is reopened! Its just as tasty as always and the space is much bigger -- although housed in an old Greek Restaurant so the decor is a little off still. Readers wanted to know when it was reopened and now it has!

washingtonpost.com: Today's First Bite: Nava Thai's New Location

Tom Sietsema: Indeed it has, and here's my take on the Thai favorite.

This just in: Chef Nicholas Steffanelli tells me he's pilling the plug on the upscale restaurant he hoped to open way up on Wisconsin Ave., Hint. He says the build-out of the space would have cost at least $2 million -- money that's hard to come by these days.

On the bright side, Stefanelli is staying at Mio downtown -- he's expected to be made a partner in the business -- and continuing to fine-tune the modern American menu there. Helping him out: Tom Wellings, the former pastry chef at the late Maestro in Tysons Corner.

Happy Wednesday, everyone. Sorry for the delayed start to our chat.

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Fairfax, Va.: Is this a live discussion? I'm confused.

Tom Sietsema: It is now! As I wrote in my intro, please excuse the slight delay today. I've got a full plate and was momentarily distracted.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Tom! Two different questions for you: 1) If you lived in D.C. and decided to venture to the suburbs for dinner one weekend night, what one or two places would you put at the top of your list right now? and 2) Can you think of a place in or near Dupont that is good for a drink but also not too loud? Thanks much!

Tom Sietsema: 1) If I were feeling flush, I'd go to 2941 in Falls Church. If I were counting my dimes, I'd head to La Canela in Rockville or Me Jana in Arlington.

2) For cocktails in Dupont Circle, try the cool Urbana on P St. or the lounge at Tabard Inn or the bar at Firefly (love those sepia tones!)

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Washington, D.C.: Good morning Tom. I'm planning to eat at Buck's Fishing and Camping soon. From what I've read and heard people either love it or loathe it, with little middle ground. Any suggestions for how I can help ensure I fall into the former category?

Tom Sietsema: Here's the recipe for dining satisfaction there: Don't ask for anything to be substituted or changed. Ask co-owner James Alefantis for wine recommendations. Be sure to order dessert, even if the options sound ordinary (because they aren't).

washingtonpost.com: 2008 Dining Guide: Buck's Fishing and Camping

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Alexandria, Va.: Apology accepted.

Tom Sietsema: Whew!

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Alexandria, Va.: Hi Tom: I am joining a friend for dinner at Marcel's this Saturday night. First time going there so I'm really looking forward to it. We're hoping to go somewhere in the same area for drinks before dinner. Any suggestions for interesting mixed drinks or decent wine lists within walking distance or a short cab ride?

Tom Sietsema: Marcels! Lucky you.

It's a completely different experience, but the bar at the nearby Founding Farmers has attracted a huge crowd since Day 1.

washingtonpost.com: First Bite: Founding Farmers

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Bethesda, Md.: Tom, in this past Sunday's restaurant review I was disappointed to see Candy cite Yelp in her write-up. I'm an avid Washington Post Magazine reader and have been since I was 10 years old. On the flip side, I'm also a Yelper and read and rate restaurants on a regular basis, but I appreciate the differences between the two outlets. Does the the Wall Street Journal quote The Onion (yeah it's a stretch but you get my point)?

Tom Sietsema: Media quote other media all the time. I think it was perfectly fine for Candy to refer to a Yelp review in her assessment of Honey Pig in Annandale. Not sure what about the single-sentence mention bothered you?

washingtonpost.com: This Week's Review: Candy Sagon on Honey Pig

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Two things...: 1) I have to give praise to Corduroy. I finally got around to dining there a few weeks ago and had a wonderful experience. I love examining food trends and experimenting as much as the next foodie, but I have to say that I found something refreshing in Corduroy's "let-the-ingredients-speak-for-themselves" attitude. And you were right on about the lobster carpaccio.

2) Corduroy puts on it's Web site that it prefers jackets for men and it's in almost every review. I appreciate that. Nice restaurants should encourage nice attire. However, it was unfortunate to see a group of 20-somethings (banker-types) in jeans and t-shirts at the table next to us. I'm not saying Corduroy should turn them away, but being a 20-something myself, it annoys me when I see others unable to understand appropriate attire. I mean, they couldn't even get a collared shirt? I don't care how much the t-shirt cost, it's still a t-shirt. It may sound trite, but it irks me because it only increases the prejudice to which us 20-somethings are often subjected at nice restaurants.

Tom Sietsema: I send a lot of readers and callers to Corduroy, for some of the same reasons you've detailed.

As for dress codes, I'm wondering if Corduroy has relaxed its earlier rules, given the poor economy. No matter the age of the diner, I think it's considerate to dress up a little when dining out in a "nice" restaurant. You don't have to wear a tux, but you shouldn't be in a t-shirt, either. Remember, for some of the other customers, this might be a special celebration or a rare night out. You want to fit in, to look the part, to show you respect your hosts and neighbors.

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Mmm, Cassoulet: Do you know of any restaurants in the area that regularly serve cassoulet?

Tom Sietsema: I've not noticed the French rib-sticker anywhere lately. (Could it be because of all the Italian restaurants that have opened lately?)

Chatters? Cassoulet?

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D.C.: Re: Buck's -- the service there is appalling. And that attitude emanates from the chef (who, in a Tom Sietsema chat, once compared herself to Beethoven and her cooking to a Mozart symphony) and from the arrogant co-owner James. Why would you want to spend your hard-earned money there, when you could instead have a perfectly lovely experience awaits you at a place like Palena a little bit south on Connecticut Avenue?

Tom, if you think this is one of those kooks who occasional write in to trash restaurants, I will send you an e-mail detailing how James treated me so rudely on my one and only visit to Buck's, that after he was out of earshot the bartender apologized for his boss's behavior.

In this economy, we should spend our dollars where we're going to be appreciated and not treated like dirt by a haughty cook and her surly partner.

Tom Sietsema: I'm sometimes reluctant to post anonymous gripes like this one, without hearing from both sides. But this post has an air of authenticity to it. The host at Buck's has never struck me as arrogant, but ...

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Booo! Bad call Tom!: Tom : If the restaurant seats the person and feels they are dressed properly how on Earth is it another diner's business? You go to eat and enjoy yourself not to judge the character or appropriateness of other diners.

Tom Sietsema: I KNEW I'd get feedback on the dress code post. And I welcome such. But jeans and t-shirts are simply not appropriate for Corduroy.

What do others think?

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Silver Spring: Hello Tom, just curious how come after a year of opening you have not reviewed Cafe Trope in dupont circle since you always mention Urbana

Tom Sietsema: Honestly? Because after my early experience there, I didn't think it was worth telling a million readers about in the Sunday Magazine.

washingtonpost.com: December 2007 First Bite: Cafe Trope

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Reston, Va.: Good morning, Tom. In your last discussion there were comments about what would predispose one to like a restaurant (warm greetings, warm butter, cool wine, etc). We are "seniors" and love dining, but aren't familiar with all areas of Washington where you review restaurants. Metro isn't very convenient so we drive into D.C. One factor for us is parking: valet or nearby "safe" parking. I've encountered downtown parking lots that close at 6:30 p.m., for example. I went online and looked at 3 fine restaurants' Web sites; only one described the parking situation. It would be useful to have this info without having to call them. Thanks for all your informative discussions!

Tom Sietsema: Thanks for sharing. I agree: Restaurants should post parking options on their web sites and tape them for outgoing telephone announcements.

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Downtown, WDC: Poste Brasserie serves an awesome Cassoulet. I had it the other night and left quite full and happy. Love the chats Tom.

Tom Sietsema: I'm there!

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Villa Mozart - Fairfax, Va.: Tom, Villa Mozart Restaurant here. Following up on the young man's comments about jeans attire; we had a couple walk out in the middle of their dinner not too long ago because we had let a group of 12 20-some in for dinner and they were wearing jeans... even though we sat them in the private room, the lady's eyes caught their attire and was very upset. In these days, it is hard to turn people down even though I understand my customer's feelings as they were both there to celebrate a big anniversary and they were very nicely dressed. What could we do?

Tom Sietsema: (I love hearing from industry insiders. Thanks, VM.)

You did the best you could, it seems to me. You obviously can't please everyone. However, I can't believe the couple left because customers -- in another ROOM! -- were dressed in a manner that offended them. Geesh.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Tom. I just had a strange experience making a reservation and wanted to see if this was the norm now. I was asked for my credit card number to secure the reservation but was told the restaurant would not accept the number over the phone. They asked me to email the credit card number instead. Email is not a secure form of communication online, so I asked to just give the number over the phone instead. The restaurant said they would have to check with the manager and get back to me. Why would a restaurant want me to email my credit card info rather than just give it over the phone?

Tom Sietsema: This is the first I've heard of this form of booking a table. Frankly, it sounds dangerous to me. Can you let me know which restaurant this was, privately, via asktom@washpost.com?

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Washington, DC: Bistro Du Coin in Dupont serves delicious cassoulet!

Tom Sietsema: That makes two sources now.

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Arlington, VA: Tom, the Buck's basher is lying. Carole Greenwood never compared herself to Beethoven, the poster is probably thinking of Gillian Clark's letter to you on this chat where she compared conducting an orchestra to cooking. I've only received gracious service at Buck's, but the restaurant does seem to attract self-entitled jerks that simply want to challenge the kitchen.

Tom Sietsema: I did not check out the Beethoven remark -- something I obviously would have done if this were slated for print!

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Cassoulet: I had it a few weeks ago at Bistro Lepic

Tom Sietsema: Love that place. (So did Laura Bush.)

washingtonpost.com: Bistro Lepic

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Chevy Chase, Md.: They ask for the credit card number to be faxed because some credit card processors and/or issuing banks won't honor the charge when the person who made the reservation and then didn't show up contests the charge - IF the number was given over the phone, because then there is no proof. Whereas if the person making the reservation sends it in by fax, then there is written proof.

Tom Sietsema: Gotcha. But I still don't ike the idea of my credit card numbers floating around cyber space. And how many no-shows ever get charged for not honoring their reservations, I wonder?

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Silver Spring, Md.: So - it's my birthday next week and we have a sitter! I love wine bars, so we are planning to start at Cork, then move on to Co Co. Sala for dessert. Is Cork okay for dinner, or is it really just appetizers? We don't need a huge entree-type place - we love tapas and little plates - so if we can make a meal out of it we should be okay. Thanks!!!

Tom Sietsema: I adore Cork, but I tend to go early, because the place gets jammed quickly. The wine bar also got a lot of press from Other Media around Inauguration, which doesn't make getting a seat there any easier.

Another option: Proof in Penn Quarter. I like your idea of ending the evening at CCS, though.

washingtonpost.com: 2008 Dining Guide: Cork and 2008 Dining Guide: Proof

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Chantilly, Va.: Tom: Diners should not worry about how others are dressed. Dress nicely and you will be treated better than slobs.

Example: A few years back my brother and I had lunch at Emeril's in New Orleans. We were dressed appropriately for lunch -- polo shirts and chinos -- but compared with many if not most of our fellow diners, we were dressed like royalty. People were coming in in cut-offs, biker t-shirts, etc. All were seated graciously, BUT the slobs were seated as far from the windows as possible. It was so obvious that I was marveling at what was being done. My brother and I got a great window table and of course had a fantastic meal.

So to the OP, take a chill pill and enjoy your meal (and the show!)

Tom Sietsema: Revealing anecdote. And true, so true, according to restaurant owners I've interviewed over the years.

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Silver Spring: Re: Cafe Trope FYI I called to make a RSVP last night and I was told they would be closing their doors this week due to the economy the rent was in the higher teens and sales were not coming in to cover. However they told me they would be relocating to U St. with another name and concept in two months. The chef cooked very well though I might add. Tom you really need to try his food. Lol.

Tom Sietsema: I'm sorry to hear of a restaurant shuttering. Thanks for sharing the news.

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RE: Dress Codes: It's a losing battle. Been to the opera lately? Lots of people just don't care about dressing appropriately.

Tom Sietsema: I'm afraid you're right ...

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Woodbridge, Va.: Hello Mr. Sietsema,

Read your chats like clockwork. Truly enjoy them. Well, I recently have been diagnosed with cancer and that has caused me to have a different view (better mostly) of the big and little things in life, including food and food establishments. I have eaten many a dish you have recommended! "Two Amys" pizza was marvelous!!! Matchbox was delightful. I was extremely nervous about eating alone, however, most of the establishments treated me very well. I don't have the kind of money to eat at Citronelle or Palena, but who knows! I have learned to take one day at a time. Reading your column every Weds. puts a kick in my step and my taste buds! REALLY! I don't take a glass of water for "granted" anymore. I truly TASTE it now! I thank you for that. I am not a picky eater -- I enjoy almost everything (NO SUSHI). My question is -- You do not mention Virginia eating places that much-unless I missed it. Do you have a favorite eating establishment in Va. where you are able to recommend a favorite dish? If not Va.A, something via metro? Thank-you for taking my question. Writing your column(s)is your livelihood and there is no doubt in my mind that you enjoy and respect what you do; to me, your column is and always will be a God send. God Bless You.

Tom Sietsema: Your email just made my day. Thanks for taking the time to share such kind words and remind all of us to enjoy being in the moment more. It's not always easy. I admire your philosophy.

I'm not ignoring Virginia intentionally; indeed, I really enjoy keeping chefs on the chefs there. Because menus change with the season, however, and the last time I ate in some of my recommendations was late summer or early fall, I'll simply point you to restaurants I'm eager to eat in again.

They include Vermilion in Old Town, 2941 in Falls Church, Four Sisters in Falls Church, Ray's Hell-Burger in Arlington, Me Jana in Arlington, Meaza Ethiopian Cuisne in Falls Church ... how's that for a start?

washingtonpost.com: Vermilion , 2941, Four Sisters, Ray's Hell-Burger, Me Jana, Meaza Ethiopian Cuisine

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Springfield, Mass.: Hi,Tom:

Reading Sietsma's Table the other day, I'm surprised that no one mentioned what to me (the English major) is the ultimate compliment to a server: a letter or e-mail.

While a mention to a manager is lovely, a hard copy can to into a server's personnel file and used for other job prospects.

Tom Sietsema: Of course! Thanks for weighing in, Teach.

washingtonpost.com: Sietsema's Table: Ways to Thank Your Server

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Marvin, D.C.: Hi Tom: Love the chats. Yes, yes, I'm submitting this question super early. Heading to Marvin tonight with some friends to celebrate their engagement. Really looking forward to trying this place! (Particularly the chicken and waffles) What MUST we order?? Thank you!

Tom Sietsema: In addition to the chicken and waffles, I'd probably try to convince my table mates to order the moules frites, duck confit and scallops on sauteed leeks. And don't forget to bring your ear plugs; the joint is l-o-u-d.

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Buck's: Can we all just get along? - can't we say the poster was mistaken instead of lying - Jeez!

Tom Sietsema: Civility rules!

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Washington, D.C.: Recently went to Himalayan Heritage for weekday lunch, mouth watering for some of the particular Nepalese food mentioned in your 1/4/09 review. I was quite disappointed to learn after arrival that they only do a buffet for lunch, with no possibility of a la carte ordering; sigh! I've had a similar experience at other restaurants (e.g. Indique Heights during weekend brunch hours). In preparing your reviews, I think it would be helpful for you to inquire about and provide such information.

By the way, the buffet was fairly standard, not bad, but not worth a special trip.

Tom Sietsema: That's strange, because when I tried it out at lunch, I was offered both a menu and the buffet. The change must have occured after my review came out. Thanks for the update.

washingtonpost.com: 2009 Review: Himalayan Heritage (Note from the online producer: I'll get the official word from the restaurant and update the online review in the Going Out Guide accordingly! Thanks!)

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Capitol Hill: Hey Tom, I recently had a great experience at Oyamel and I was wondering if you have any other recommendations for new additions to the D.C. scene that are moderately priced. Thanks!

Tom Sietsema: How new is "new?" I'm definitely a fan of Nando's Peri-Peri in Chinatown, the relocated Four Sisters in Falls Church, Burma Road in Gaithersburg and (parts of) Shanghai Tea House in Glover Park. Among other places.

washingtonpost.com: First Bite: Burma Road

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Los Angeles, Calif.: Dear Tom,

I've been reading your chat for a couple of years now, I guess due to your charm as I don't usually travel to D.C. My husband and I attended the inauguration. Knowing what restaurants to aim for made for a very pleasant dining week. I didn't do any advance planning as we weren't sure what our hosts' schedule was. Still I was able to get same day (!) reservations at Restaurant Eve's tasting room, 1789 and Rasika and we were not disappointed (omg, that crispy spinach.) We were giddily happy anyway due to the occasion but such fine meals were a much appreciated element of an unforgettable trip. So thank you Tom for all your guidance, and thank you D.C. for doing such a great job at holding the world's biggest party.

Tom Sietsema: Good morning, L.A. I'm amazed you got into those three top restaurants without advance reservations, but I'm pleased to hear you liked your meals there.

Don't be a stranger; we have more good food to show off.

I'll be out your way next month. Where do you suggest I dine?

washingtonpost.com: 2009 Review: 1789

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Arlington: What are your favorite places to eat near the National Harbor?

Tom Sietsema: Right now? I think Old Hickory does a solid job. And the views!

washingtonpost.com: First Bite: Old Hickory Steakhouse

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Cassoulet: Central's is amazing!!

Tom Sietsema: That makes three spots for cassoulet. Thanks, chatters.

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U Street, D.C.: Hi Tom,

Is Ben's Next Door on your "to do" review list? I went over the weekend for dinner for the first time, and was more impressed with the food than I thought I'd be. That former Hell's Kitchen winner is doing a good job cooking tasty soul food. And their crab cakes: they're the best I've had in a while, if not ever.

Tom Sietsema: Stay tuned. I'll be previewing the new neighbor to Ben's Chili Bowl next week, in my First Bite column in the Food section.

washingtonpost.com: Jane Black on Ben's Next Door and its celeb chef

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D.C.: Oh dear. I just read in the NY Times today that Fiamma closed last month. Any update on Fabio Trabocchi's future plans?

washingtonpost.com: Food Flash: Got Work for Fabio Trabocchi?

Tom Sietsema: I don't have any update to share, but I hope Trabocchi keeps his Washington audience informed of any change in his employment status.

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American Restaurant Chain -- What Bugs Me: Hey Tom, You and I are fans of the American Restaurant chain. I love the atmosphere and the menu in general. But you know what irks me? -- The kids menu. It's not all that great. Not only do they have Grouper fingers instead of chicken strips, but the rest of their items come pre-made and with add-ins that aren't necessarily welcomed by all children. The mac and cheese has a breadcrumb top and ham. And since they're pre-made, you can't get it without the ham. The kids selections are few... someone should tell them that. We'll still go there - but not with our kids. They don't like the menu.

Tom Sietsema: Have you let the restaurant in question know how you feel? GAR is very responsive to its patrons, I've discovered.

I actually like the idea of grouper fingers for kids. And I applaud the inclusion of sides like unsweetened applesauce and carrots for pint-sized diners. But I'm not sure why the kitchen can't make a few mac and cheeses sans ham topping for kids or vegetarians or anyone who might not like the addition of meat to the comfort food.

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Celebratory Dinner: Hi Tom,

We're meeting two friends from out of town for dinner on Friday 2/13. They're a couple, graduating from law school, and we want to help them celebrate. I want to make reservations at Sei, but I'm concerned that it might be too expensive. We want to buy their dinner as a gift. Do you think that dinner will be less than $150 not including drinks? Will we be able to talk and linger? We don't get to see each other very often. Thanks for your input! If you don't recommend sei, is there somewhere else where we can take them that's got great food (no specific type is needed or avoided), reasonable prices, with a good atmosphere for celebrating?

Tom Sietsema: When I checked out the Asian-themed Sei for First Bite last month, the bill was about $85 a head with (expensive) cocktails, tax and tip.

You might consider as an alternative the aforementioned Mio downtown or the redesigned Bombay Club near the White House, which includes thalis, or sampler plates, on its new Indian menu.

washingtonpost.com: First Bite: Sei

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Wondering about that full plate: What is on that full plate? Is is something edible? :-)

Tom Sietsema: Unfortunately, I was referring to my own deadlines! lol

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Too late: I'm afraid Cafe Trope has "for lease" signs out. I had not been, but I hate to see a restaurant go under.

Tom Sietsema: Me too.

And the news on the street, especially concerning high-end places, is getting scarier by the week.

washingtonpost.com: Today's Dish: Signs of the Times

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Shepherd Park, DC: In response to your question about proper attire, I fall on the side of dressing appropriately for the place you're going: if it's a nicer restaurant, especially one with a stated dress code, dress up. If it's a casual place, by all means wear your jeans.

And while I can't dispute the treatment the Buck's poster claimed, I have to say that we have always been treated with complete respect by the staff at Buck's, including James, and the service, with the occasional glitch, has been acceptable. Everyone has a bad day once in a while, and who knows whether it was the poster or the restaurateur.

Tom Sietsema: Amen.

And so concludes another chat. See you all next week.

Chow for now!

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