negroni

i gather you've been and have had a good experience? i tried the laboratorio a little over a year ago and frankly was very disappointed. for the money, palena is a much better deal all around. the intimacy of laboratorio's setting notwithstanding, i found roberto and the wait staff cold, disengaged and a bit arrogant. i expected roberto to say a few words during the meal (say, about what we were eating, etc.), but we didn't even get a "hello" or "thank you." when i pointed out that the first course's recommended wine was corked, the waiter looked at me like i couldn't possibly know what i was talking about, then appeared very inconvenienced by having to open a new bottle. (he wisely let me taste the subsequent wines first, but clearly wasn't very happy about it.) the food was good, but not particularly memorable. in fact, out of the 12 or so courses, the only one i do remember is a mushroom risotto that was well-paired with a very nice italian chardonnay. but, that's a pretty pathetic report for a nearly $900 dinner for four.

sheesh. and i thought i was a big palena fan. i'm new to this forum...glad to know my all-time favorite place (on all counts) has such a loyal following. i get there almost once a week (frequently solo), and always hate for the evening to end. the service has always, always, always been excellent (since my very first visit, i think in september 2001) and the food...well, you all know about that. the staff really seems to have come together over the last 6 months or so. it's true they're all young, but they carry themselves very professionally. and, if ever there's been a glitch (there has been, once or twice), kelli has been quick to respond, also very professionally and responsibly. i've tried, but can't find another place in town i'd rather go.

i'll never stray from schneider's on capitol hill. knowledgeable staff (especially ron) and great deals.