Hello folks, this might only be my third or fourth post after having lurked on this board for the better part of 4 or 5 years (thank you all for your pictures, rants, raves...I've learned a lot). I am proud to say that upon arriving at M last evening for a date with the future in-laws, and chatting with the loquacious and talented bartender, I learned that Philly and the internets are really a small world. When I mentioned the egullet thread to the bartender (is there not a better word for her?), as if I was telling her something new, she simply said her name was Katie and being the egullet stalker that I am, I gasped, "YOU'RE KATIE LOEB???" Enough gushing. on to the goods. First the Red ____ viognier was delightful and simple, just my style. Once we got to talking, Katie proffered a superb concoction, a rum and Falerno (sp?) and mint mix (the name of which escapes me). Give me the courtyard and 75 degrees and sun, and I am there at happy hour just for that drink. Or else for the "Taylor Made" which is a Bourbon based drink, mixed with brown simple syrup, grapefruit and something else...and falerno. I think I'll have one - or two - of each next time. (special note: falerno's scent in the bottle , but its taste more so when mixed, lends a gingery aroma ,hinted with other spices, that reminded me of the scent of some asian markets...weird, yes, but I really mean it - and in a good way). The service was excellent. The lobster amuse bouche was delightful with a hint of ...mango I believe and vanilla too. My scallop starter was tender, perfectly cooked and pretty (with red watercress?) The pork belly starter across the table, on mashed rutabaga, was a new first for me (why oh why , pork belly, have I missed you?!?!?!?) and the two that ordered it were in heaven. I had the poussin with roasted sweet garlic bread pudding, and brussel sprouts with pancetta. I have to admit I have never ...ever...(at least not in the past 12 yrs) ordererd any sort of fowl at a restaurant, preferring the fish or meat entrees, and I did it on a lark (mmmm lark....fowl...maybe I AM converted). the poussin was delicately seasoned /brined and so very tasty. Major major love for the bread pudding. I had a pinot grigio - not sure of the name - at the start of dinner and found it sort of dull or tart - please note that I am hardly the one you go to for wine recs. My palate is untrained and simplistic...and likes the sweeter side. So i had one more glass of the viognier and was pleased. All in all, I found M to be the best in my book, with great thanks to the server, Manager, and our friendly neighborhood Ms Katie. merci beaucoup!