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I gave up on the Washingtonian restaurant reviews several years ago after my waiter at one of DC's better restaurants pointed out the special reception the Washingtonian food editor was having. So much for anonimity. On the other hand, the front section of openings and closings of museum exhibits and theatre make it worth the $1 an issue. -Ed

Today's Wall Street Journal, Weekend Edition, has a fascinating article on Sponsored Chefs. "Some of America's most respected culinary stars are signing contracts with trade groups from raisin farmers and avocado growers to canned-good promoters--and getting cash, discounts and freebies in exchange for using their products." Some of the chefs mentioned include Rick Bayless, David Burke, Charlie Trotter, Ming Tsai and Jose Andres ! "...Jose Andres, of Washington D.C., who since signing up with the California Avocado Commission has increased the number of dishes with avocado in them on his menu to eight from two." Funther on: "'When something comes my way, when it's something I love and when it gets me a little extra money, I'll do it,' says Mr. Andres, who is currently considering marketing proposals from 20 food companies."

Enjoyed the tasting menu at City Zen last night. And if it ain't Maestro, it's awfully close. We did add the foie gras risotto which exceeded my already high expectations. Other memorable courses included perfectly cooked salmon, rockfish, herb-infused lamb loin and a bordellaise consumme with red wine sorbet that I will never forget. We had the suggested wine parings with the courses and I must say that these paring were far better than those at Labrotorio or Maestro, IMHO. The wines complemented the food and vice-versa in ways I never imagined. Service was unobtrusive and efficient. The only, minor, down note was the rising noise level from the very crowded bar. -Ed

Funny. We were there 3-4 weeks ago--had great food and the worst service I've ever experienced. I won't go into details because it's too painful. Complaining to the manager afterwards brought an "Oh Well" response. Somebody could have said that they were sorry.

Ate at the Dupont Circle location about a year ago. (Would not go back there.) No comparison.

Had dinner at Alero on U last Saturday. The space is very nice and very unusual for a DC restaurant. Since we did not have a reservation, we were happy to be seated without any wait around 9:00 p.m. The service was friendly and competent. We split the calamares appetizer. It was crisply fried, tender on the inside. I had the poblano chili stuffed with beef which was an interesting take on the old chili rellano. Quite good. We drank beer and coke so did not taste any of the fru-fru drinks. All in all, I'd go back again.

I was really impressed a couple of weeks ago when the staff opened the restaurant 20 minutes before the posted time and served us happily.

Now if they could only make a martini that didn't taste watered down it would be perfect!

Went April 21 to Le Paradou for a very special lunch. Had the following with Champagne to start and a lovely white Burgundy. Creamy Soup of Morel Roasted Scallops, Parma Ham Lobster Purse with Carrot Jus and Ginger Mediterranean Bass Stuffed with Shrimp Mousse, Roasted Scallops, Sauce Vermouth Saffron and Rosemary The room has a quiet, almost Zen-like peacefulness to it. Every course exceeded expectations with subtle combinations of flavors. The service was of a quality one would expect in such a restaurant but seldom receive. The wine steward was helpful, charming and made sure our glasses always had just enough wine in them. Nice stemware too. The $28 pre fixe at lunch for two courses of this quality is a steal! Go now before the crowds arrive. -Ed

We went to Bistro d'Oc last Saturday after a movie at the E Street Cinema. Since it was late (10:00pm) I didn't want a full meal. The French onion soup was just fine. The baked brie was tasty but the apples with it didn't really add much. Partner had the Croque Monsieur (sp?) with the really, really god french fries. Cozy atmosphere. We will definitely go back when we're in the neighborhood. -Ed

Had lunch there late one Saturday afternoon before Christmas. The restaurant was mostly empty. Unfortunately it was during the staff lunch period so service was a bit slow. I'm not a Thai food expert but each dish had an individual taste. Watch out for the hot stuff. I'd go back.

My company recently had a great dinner in the downstairs private room at DC Coast. The prices were reasonable and the service was fantastic for a group dinner on a Saturday night. -Ed

"Tasted like Fall" in a great way--warm spicy flavors, not too sweet, brought back memories of youth. Portion sizes were just fine. -Ed

Perhaps we should have a forum for entertaining quips. I actually had dinner at Ceiba on Tuesday, 9/23. Also had the empanadas of duck confit which were very tasty. The sauce did not add to the dish. Continued on with the grilled scallops--very nice. For dessert I had the Ceiba version of tarte tatin (sp?) which was made with pumpkin. It tasted like fall. Very good selection of wines by the glass from S America and Spain. Very attentive service by what seemed very young servers. -Ed

Kuna at 14th & U has been very reliable for interesting Italian. They call it "farm house" cooking. The prices are reasonable as well.