bilrus

That's kinda where I was headed. Of course, Bud really does sell the most.

It is the #1 selling beer in the world. When you hold an election the most qualified person doesn't always the winner - its the one with the most votes (trying hard not to make snide, off topic, political comments here).

We were seated promptly and the waiter was efficient and friendly, if maybe a little more casual than you might expect in a place like this. He claimed that they were having a bad night and brought us two extra glasses of wine to make up for it, but we hadn't noticed any problems. Their Visa computer (I don't really know how the system works) was down, so it took a while to get our check back and we had a gift certificate from Open Table that he forgot to credit at first. But all in all I thought the service was fine. But I'd take overly friendly to overly formal any day. Edit: In thinking about this post I realized that I was maybe wrong in what I said. I would take PLEASANTLY friendly over ARROGNANTLY formal. Simple formality IS much better than the sit down at the table, flair wearing, "hey, how's it going" style you see all too often.

Finally made it to Palena last night and nearly everything was very good (those same gnocchi Malawry descibes and the late summer salad with a dressing that included truffles and almonds) to excellent (the trio of pork - tenderloin, house-made bacon and a garlicky sausage was very satisfying and the sweet corn raviolini improved on the taste of the best summer corn on the cob I have ever had). The only real miss was the tomato and bread soup which tasted mostly of salt. And the caramels that come with the cookie plate could turn me off forever to mass made caramel. Looking forward to going back to try the bar menu soon.

I'm in. I told myself I (and my wife) would call for 1/2 hour. Finally made it through at 1:29 eastern). Got the last table for two at 9:30. Thanks for the advice and tips (and offers to take bribes).

In the Virginia neck of the woods - 2941 is very good and would be about in the price range you are looking for.

I'm glad you say that. I am embarrased to admit that I was at first a little intimidated by the menu. But all the raves encourage me to just get over it - soon.

It is probably overrated, but it is also worth going. This is coming from someone who has only been to the upstairs cafe once, so take it for what it is worth. I enjoyed that meal enough that I am planning on going back in November to try the dinner downstairs.

That lobster Pad Thai puts every other version of Pad Thai to shame.

OK - I was confused. That was the one that I was thinking was going in Rosslyn. Oh well - its been a long day.

I guess people are figuring out that there is a severe lack of good Mexican food in the area. Jeff Tunks is opening something Rosslyn and isn't there another Mexican place opening up somehwere (I may be confused though)?

More info please - what, where, etc?

Also in the Celveland Park area is the very good Indique (updated Indian) and Spices (casual pan-Asian). In Old Town I have had good meals both times I have been to Majestic Cafe and being a large guy am particularly sensitive to tables being too close together and didn't get that sense. And although I haven't been, Vermillion there has gotten some good mentions on other threads.

Stone - that's what I like to hear - encouragement. If I got in FL and played 18 at Pebble or Spyglass, that would make for a pretty good trip, don't you think?

I thought that the FL is closing at the beginning of the year for several months, so that Keller can open his New York restaurant. My guess is that reservations are much easier to get when the restaurant is closed. Less useful, though. Bruce This is an old thread I resurrected. That reference was to February of 2003. I am going in November. Originally that was going to be the hiatus, much to my chagrin. But now it is after the first of the year - 2004.

Are you planning on doing some trading at the local penitentiary?

Unfortunately, I am staying in San Francisco, as I am tagging along while my wife attends a convention. We have three evenings and Saturday lunch when we have the time to make the drive up to Yountville - so four opportunities to get in.

I am interested in a clarification that is probably a stupid question, but I am going to ask it anyway (because I want to make sure i get my reservation). When they say two months in advance - they do mean two months to the day, right? In other words if I want a reservation on November 12th I should be calling on the morning of September 12th - right?

If you look at the Smoking Gun this isn't really the type of stuff most rock stars demand. More along the lines of Cereal and Fruit Juices.

I know I am in for the Indique event. I'd probably be up for whatever the next Whim is as well. But I guess that is what makes it a whim.

Last night I made fresh pasta with my new pasta roller attachments (granted not fast, but I froze a batch for later use). I then tossed it in browned butter with some fresh sage, salt and pepper and a little grated Parm. Very good and took about five minutes from fridge to plate.

I am the exact opposite. I can deal with Dark as part of a dessert, but absolutely hate it in a candy bar.

The part of chocolate that I like the most is the creaminess. I don't get that with really dark bitter chocolate. I also like a little sweetness (but not too cloying). I can't vouch for whether you are a freak or not though.

But has there been a decrease in business?

Its on.