| Ask Tom
Hosted by Tom Sietsema
Washington Post Food Critic
Wednesday, March 19, 2003; 11 a.m. ET 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. Tom's Sunday magazine reviews, as well as his "Ask Tom" column, are available early on the Web. The transcript follows. Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.
Arlington, Va.: Since so many restaurateurs seem to lurk here, I thought I'd share two stories of excellence in service. 1. While dining at a New York restaurant (Bay Leaf -- upscale Indian), my SO was having a hard time deciding between two dishes. She asked the waiter for a suggestion and made a choice. When the meals came, he brought along a plate with a small sample of her second choice dinner. 2. I love restaurants that provide complementary house wine to diners waiting for a table. I've seen that in other cities in my travels, but in D.C., I've only seen it at Kuna, which has been consistently excellent for food and service. These are simple gestures that cost a little, but gain a lot in repeat business (not to mention anecdotes like this one)! Tom Sietsema: A little generosity sure goes a long way, doesn't it? I'm always happy to report incidents of good service, wherever it may occur.
Good morning, all. I thought we should start today's chat on a positive note.
Washington, D.C.: Hi Tom, This is the 4th time I've submitted this question. I know you get a lot of questions or perhaps you don't think this is an issue. I and friends have stopped going to restaurants (like Ardeo, Yannis, Woodley Cafe) that allow smoking at their bars, which are in the middle of the no smoking sections. This means there is no no smoking section. I'd be fine with a restaurant that had only smoking sections (I would then be able to decide if I wanted to go there), but don't want to be seated in an area that is supposedly no smoking only to be exposed to smoke throughout the meal. Please let restaurateurs know they are losing business over this. Tom Sietsema: Restaurateurs, you hear that?
Georgetown, Washington, D.C.: Hi Tom. I hear the Inn at Glen Echo closed its doors. What happened? We always enjoyed the good food and intimate atmosphere. Tom Sietsema: It's true. Glen Echo has been sold to the owners of Four Provinces; they intend to turn it into an Irish restaurant. The owner of Glen Echo told me he was burned out and wanted to spend more time with his family. Plus, he already has two other side jobs -- one is selling exotic reptiles!
Falls Church, Va.: Recently, a reader here or in the Post commented he/she would take food business to the Auberge, where they help move cars, rather than to Greenwood, where they would not comply with a simple request for a peanut-free meal by an allergic patron. Pondering that today, I feel obliged to comment. Before taking on the liability of potential anaphylactic shock, I would imagine the kitchen would have to designate pots and pans never used with peanut oil, lest traces remain, as well as utensils. Maybe to be on the safe side, the staff should not be eating peanut butter products for a day or so, to make sure no trace of oil remains on their hands. Then, of course, all hidden components of products have to be examined to make sure "other organic ingredients" include no peanuts. Is that really such a reasonable, easy request? I think not, and I would consider a restaurant justified in not dallying with such an extremely sensitive allergy. Do you agree? Tom Sietsema: Now THAT'S a loaded question.
I see your point. But I can also understand someone not wanting to die because they unknowingly ate the wrong thing.
Part of me thinks that diners are responsible for their own comfort. If someone is, say, allergic to an ingredient, he should ask someone in a position to know the menu well if that ingredient is anywhere on the menu. A good restaurant will try to accommodate reasonable requests.
But can you imagine if a whole dining room was asking for special requests on a busy night, requests that might involve completely reworking dishes? It would really slow down the show.
Bottom line: if you are allergic to something, call ahead to get your questions answered before you venture out.
This is, of course, a complicated question that deserves more space than I can give it here.
P.S. I miss those bags of peanuts they used to serve at 30,000.
Alexandria, Va.: Tom, Are there any little things that draw you to certain dishes? For myself, if an entree is served with haricot verts or asparagus, I find myself wanting that whether it be monkfish or steak. Tom Sietsema: Good question. Regardless of what the star ingredient is, I find myself drawn to just about anything with almonds, caramel, lemon, or bacon.
Re: smoking in bars/restaurants: I miss California. All restaurants in the Bay Area were smoke-free. It was very jarring when I made my first reservation after moving here to hear the question, "Smoking or non?" My husband and I deliberately choose places that are smoke-free or thoroughly isolate the smokers so that our air and our dining experience is not polluted with smoke. Tom Sietsema: Voting with your patronage is what it's all about.
If you are really committed to change, you should let the offending restaurants know that you are taking your business elsewhere, and why. Diplomatically, of course.
Rockville, Md.: Please, Please answer my question, I've asked it 3 times. I'm going to New Orleans for my anniversary, any suggestions? If you don't answer it, I will starve the whole weekend b/c I won't know where to go, I'm so dependant on you, Tom. Tom Sietsema: Oh, the responsibilities of this job!
I haven't been to Nawlins in some time, but my food pals give the nod to Galatoire's (for the classic New Orleans experience), Herbsaint, and Peristyle among other spots.
Believe me, you won't starve down there.
Arlington, Va.: Went to RFD after listening to all the debate. Great beer, better-than-average food, absolutely HORRIBLE service. I wont be going back. Tom Sietsema: RFD, which specializes in beers for sipping and beer in the cooking, is getting really mixed reactions from diners. Early on, my meal there was memorable most for how loud the dining room was on a busy weekend.
Washington, D.C.: Tom, After reading a review of Burma in the New York Times (sorry!), we decided to try it. Apparently, we weren't the only ones who read the review because the place was mobbed. There were only two waiters, and they were completely overwhelmed. It was my worst dining out experience ever -- the waiter was rude and after two hours, we still did not get all of our entrees. We ended up leaving hungry and frustrated. Tom Sietsema: Ah, the power of the press! I always advise people to wait a month or so before visiting a place that has recently been the recipient of flattering words in the media.
Arlington, Va.: Tom -- A couple chats ago you mentioned that Washington was in the Top 10 cities in the countries for dining. Out of curiosity, what other cities make up the rest of the list? Tom Sietsema: In no particular order: New York, San Francisco, Boston, Los Angeles, Portland (yes, Portland), Chicago, Seattle, New Orleans, and maybe Las Vegas (I go back and forth on that one) in addition to the DC area.
Night out with the ladies: I'm planning an evening out in the Farragut North area with some gal pals. I normally associate the area with lunch spots for the workweek. Are there any spots in that neighborhood you or readers recommend for dinner on a Saturday night? For some it will be a night out without the kids, so a convivial atmosphere would be a plus. Thanks. Tom Sietsema: The Italian-themed Sesto Senso on Connecticut Ave. gets lively at night. For something different, you might consider the Bombay Club - Indian cooking in a romantic atmosphere. I really admire the new American cooking at Equinox, but the room probably lacks the spirit you are looking for.
Northwest Washington, D.C.: Tom, fill in the blank: DC's next food trend should be ___________________________. Tom Sietsema: Desserts that are worth eating.
(What, this has become an exam now?)
Bethesda, Md.: You promised last time to tell us about chefs who are leaving town.. so, what's the news? Tom Sietsema: Not leaving town, necessarily, but leaving good jobs.
Elysium is looking for a chef, for instance, as is the Oval Room.
Restaurateurs Acts of Kindness: As an avid foodie in downtown restaurants, I have a story to share about Olives. Six of us were having a business lunch. When asking about the menu, my colleague mentioned she was lactose-intolerant (in passing). Before our meal, the server brought us a delicious amuse - olive pasta stuffed with goat cheese, but brought my lactose-intolerant colleague a vegetable/relish dish. He didn't say anything, but it was just the small detail that impressed me immensely. Ah, the little things...Kudos to Olives. Didn't you say you had news of TWO chefs departing? Just saw one in today's Weekly Dish. Tom Sietsema: Good for Olives!
I wrote about the chef at Elysium leaving in my introduction to last week's chat.
Washington, DC: I turned on the TV yesterday and who did I see? None other than Timothy Dean, in an advertisement for lawyers, . . . something to the effect of "when I needed a lawyer, I turned to so-and-so for help . . . ." What is the deal with this story? Tom Sietsema: Are you serious?
Top Ten: Maine or Oregon? Tom Sietsema: Good point. That's Portland, OREGON.
Bethesda, Md.: The Florida Avenue Grill has been around for many years and I've been told to check it out for over 30 years -- but have hesitated to stop by that part of town. Have you been there recently and is it as great as people tell me it is? Tom Sietsema: Gosh, I haven't eaten there in years. Thanks for the reminder to check out the place again.
For Washington color, these days my destination tends to be Ben's Chili Bowl on U St. Different menu, of course, but I love soaking up the conversation, bantering with the staff and blowing my diet on one of those chili sauced half smokes now and then.
Peanuts at 30,000: Tom, just thought I ought to let you know that not serving peanuts at 30,000 feet has nothing to do with allergies and everything to do with cost. If it were indeed about allergies, airline passengers wouldn't be able to bring their own nuts on board, which is not the case, and Kenya Airways wouldn't have served me a bag of peanuts and a bag of macadamia nuts last week. Tom Sietsema: Thanks for enlightening us today.
Mt. Lebanon, Pa.: Hey, are there any good eateries over there by the tractor pull TNT nutball in the pond? We might come down, chow down, and take in the dinner show. By the way, there's a war coming. Thanks much. Tom Sietsema: Anyone out there have access to some MREs? That would be my choice for such an outing.
Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: Tom, Are you still recommending Wazuri these days? I went by the other day at lunchtime and it was practically empty (Lauriol Plaza was bursting at the seams as usual). I have enjoyed Wazuri in the past and wanted to take a couple people there, but don't know if we'll be sitting in an empty dining room. Thanks for your help--don't know what I did before these chats... Tom Sietsema: Wazuri is as good as ever. And Lauriol is as busy as ever. Go figure.
Washington, D.C.: Any word on the new restaurant in the Shirlington Hilton called Finn and Porters? Tom Sietsema: I'll be writing a bit about it next week.
A sneak preview: the menu needs work.
Easton, Md.: Any dining spots on MD's Eastern Shore that have impressed you? Tom Sietsema: Check out my review of the Inn at Easton, which serves modern Australian food. Pretty setting, well-priced Aussie wine list, friendly staff. I can't wait to venture back myself.
AO "Acronym Overload": Ok, I get SO is significant other, and TNT is a TV station that has monster truck things, but MRE..? Tom Sietsema: Meals Ready to Eat
(Military jargon)
Re: Burma: I too have eaten at Burma in Chinatown and been disappointed. However, if you want authentic, tasty Burmese cooking at a great price, try Mandalay on Route 1 in College Park! It has also received some very positive press lately but seems to be handling the increased traffic more smoothly. The staff is great & very friendly; I'd have to say it's my current favorite budget restaurant in the DC area. Tom Sietsema: I have not been, but my colleague Walter Nicholls in the Food section really likes the place. (And he's not an easy man to please.)
Somewhere, USA: Tom - I was looking for some place that would not be swamped for the Food and Friends event last week. I read your review from some time ago about Corduroy & you were right on. Great food, but it does look exactly like an airport lounge. Tom Sietsema: Yeah, I wonder when the hotel plans to do something about that blah interior. The chef really deserves something sexier.
Every time I dine there, I expect to hear a voice: "Last call for Flight 186 to Phoenix."
Alexandria/DC: I know Wazuri is African food, but I haven't a clue as to what that involves. Would you mind enlightening me? Thanks! Tom Sietsema: My review is online.
Washington, D.C.: Peanuts: Having been in the restaurant industry for 15 years, I can tell you that such a special request is easily accommodated. And if you have an avalanche of special requests, good restaurants usually will say (if it's busy) - "We'll be happy to accommodate your request, but it will take the Chef X minutes to prepare. Is that acceptable?" This way, the guest gets to decide if the special request is worth the wait, and other diners aren't affected. Sometimes, with outlandish requests, you do have to politely decline. No peanuts is not outlandish. Tom Sietsema: Thanks for your comments.
Washington, D.C.: Where can I take an out-of-town guest from a dining Mecca (San Fran) out for dinner here in DC on a Sunday night? A place with good food and good ambience? Tom Sietsema: Your friend will feel right at home if you take him or her to Greenwood, Zaytinya or Zola.
Washington, D.C.: So what sort of wine do you serve with apocalypse? Tom Sietsema: Something big and red with a high alcohol content.
Rome, Italy: PLEASE! Don't leave me hanging! Seeking a recommendation for awesome food and romantic atmosphere in the Frederick/Shenandoah area. We're having a special anniversary dinner and I need something that will knock her socks off!
Tom Sietsema: Geez, people!
I'm stumped at the moment. Readers? Can anyone help our friend in Rome?
Somewhere, USA: Hi Tom, I have an etiquette question for you. Assuming that you go to a restaurant well after peak dinner-hours, is it tacky to only order dessert and coffee? Thanks. Tom Sietsema: I'd ask at the door: "Can we get a table for dessert and coffee?"
Some restaurants are happy to honor such requests, others consider it a bother and not worth the time or expense.
I bet if you sat at the bar, provided there is one, and ate dessert there, it wouldn't be a problem at all.
Washington, D.C.: Tom - Any thoughts on RFD? Went there with some friends on Monday night and had some great beer and some pretty darn great sandwiches. I've missed out on the talk about this place and it was suggested by a friend. Also - what is your favorite patio-dining restaurant when the weather warms up? Tom Sietsema: RFD was covered here earlier.
As for patios, you'll find me heading to the ones at 701, overlooking the Navy Memorial in Penn Quarter; the outdoor seating at L'Auberge Chez Francois for an early dinner on Sunday; the rooftop at Wazuri in Dupont Circle; Ashby Inn in Paris, if I find myself in the hunt country; Two Amys if I'm near the Cathedral; the Tabard Inn on N St. if I want to escape not far from the office; the porch at Black's if I'm in Bethesda. There are lots of choices, actually.
Washington, D.C.: I need your expert help! I want to get a gift certificate as a thank you for a group of 4 (2 couples). I want to spend $500 total. Can you give me a recommendation or two - I want it to be nice as they did something very, very nice for me! Please help! Tom Sietsema: They will thank you again and again should you treat them to meals at Maestro in the Ritz-Carlton in McLean or the beautiful 2941 in Falls Church.
Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: Tom, I'm just back from Amsterdam, where I had one of the best meals of my life at Puri Mas, an Indonesian restaurant. Now I've got an insane craving for Indonesian food. Any recommendations, especially in the city? Thanks! Tom Sietsema: Thanks for the dining tip (I'm going to Amsterdam early next month myself). One good turn deserves another: Try the underground Malaysia Kopitiam on M St. downtown.
Washington, DC: Hi Tom, I stopped in to check out Burma one lunchtime after reading your interesting review, and my impression was that the restaurant was quite shabby ('barebones' was how I think you described it). But to me, it verged on dirty, and the stale-smelling air of the place didn't help. The food still sounds interesting, but I couldn't get past the atmosphere. Does this sort of thing not bother you when you visit the area's less grand establishments? Tom Sietsema: Sure it does. But Burma wasn't stale-smelling or dirty when I was in, or I would have pointed that out.
You'd be surprised, by the way, at all the faded wall paper and ripped carpets -- and unkempt bathrooms -- that I see in a number of supposedly upscale restaurants here.
Washington, D.C.: RE: an evening in Farragut North. My husband and I had a really nice meal at Spezie on L St. just a few weeks ago. Tom Sietsema: Another option. But it's not as delicious as it was when it opened, in my opinion.
Bartender: Bars are for drinking! Aaaagghhh, I hate it when I need to go make-check on a dessert when I have a full bar. Tom Sietsema: Okay. But what if you aren't busy? And what's so difficult about asking a customer if he's enjoying his creme brulee sted his rum and Coke?
Downtown Washington, D.C.: Dear Tom: I'm in desperate need of your advice and counsel to whittle down a list of places for a birthday celebration dinner on a Friday night involving 8-12 people, including some non-carnivores. We'd like to keep the grand total for dinner to under $175, if possible, and I'd like to remain in the District. I'm considering: Melting Pot, Indique, Gabriel, Vivo, Circle Bistro, Jaleo, Penang, and Lebanese Taverna. What would you suggest, whether or not on that list? Thanks! Tom Sietsema: Does that $175 cover booze, tax and tip?
Having just dined there, Lebanese Taverna on Connecticut Ave. gets my vote: the Lebanese restaurant has an extensive menu and knows how to accommodate large parties. Plus, it's an attractive space.
The other places you mention (in no particular order) are either closed, don't take reservations, in transition, over your budget or not very delicious right now.
Above Olive's: Tom, you seem cranky today. Allergies? Just concerned. Tom Sietsema: Cranky? Me?
No, but I didn't have my Wheaties and I'm starving right now.
Plus, there seem to be more than a few whiners here today (you should see the stuff I'm NOT posting...)
Patio dining: I always loved the Iron Gate but how's the food there these days (don't remember it ever being that great). Tom Sietsema: At least it's consistent: it's still "not that great."
Washington, D.C.: When will you be reviewing Cleveland Park's new Indique restaurant? washingtonpost.com: Eve's review from last week is here. Tom Sietsema: There you go.
Washington, D.C.: Happy (almost) Spring! I have a question concerning a matter of utmost importance...do you know if there are any bakeries in DC or Northern VA that make a good brioche? I've looked high and low to no avail. I'd appreciate your help. Tom Sietsema: Don't shoot me for my answer: BreadLine on Pennsylvania Ave. sells a first-rate 2.5-pound loaf for $5.25.
Looking for something new: Tom - An old friend and I get together every couple of months over dinner, and try to pick new and interesting foreign foods to try at the same time. We've done Ethiopian and Afghan food and I LOVED both! Can you suggest a place for our next dinner, nothing American/French/Mexican/Italian (done to death)? We're looking in northern Virginia (or, I suppose, around Bethesda if need be), $10-$16 main courses, khakis or jeans type places. Thanks! Tom Sietsema: The area brims with possibilities.
High on my list would be Bacchus, with Lebanese menus in both Washington and Bethesda; Costa Verde, the homey Peruvian joint in Arlington (try the whole fried trout and anything made with potatoes); and Han Sung Oak for good Korean cooking in Falls Church.
That wraps up today's show. Thanks for tuning in. I promise to eat something BEFORE I log on next Wednesday, OK?
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