Can we dial it down a notch, you two? It's okay to second guess having a chef writing a restaurant review (though, good job correcting the meanspirited dig about Savor, SEW). The choice is clearly outside the box of restaurant reviewing convention. But, for good reason, if you ask me. The Roosevelt has bowled over everyone with a blog or twitter account since it opened its doors and will likely continue to do so. Reviewers had run out of ways to praise Lee and Kendra. They've raised the bar for casual dining. It should be seen as a sign of respect that local media turned to Ellie Basch to raise the level of analysis and appreciation. If she reviews again, during her hiatus from restaurant ownership, Richmond will be better for it, just as we are for The Roosevelt's excellent contribution.
I think Cosmicmojo means well, meegwell. Sure, maybe they're playing the class card or waging culinary class warfare, but times are tight. So the economic angle should be expected whenever there are changes in the food scene, even if it is jumping to conclusions and maybe a little off-base.
I for one trumpeted Cafe Ole's arrival as a hopeful sign of things to come: more accessible food for Carytown. A big burrito you could window-shop with! I'd like to see more of that kinda thing personally. But, a Jimmy Sneed restaurant is a big deal for Richmond, and the attention it receives will likely benefit all of Carytown.
The food at this place is something special. Put your order in. Walk to the library a block over. Get a book. Read it. Then enjoy a delicious meal made with care.
Anyone wanna compare Chicken Mania's rotisserie chicken to Chicken Fiesta? My wife says it's just as good (which is really saying something). For me, it's all about the yuca and yellow sauce, and Mania's doesn't measure up to Fiesta. But, the ceviche is high on my todo list.
An owner of Cafe Gutenberg is featured in this article and she didn't blame anything on The Bottom. There's only one quote from her here and she admits not being able to elevate the biz to what it needs to be. If you've ever been one of the 800 people having brunch there on a Sunday, you know they can get you in and out. The kitchen is really talented, and their food clearly brings people back. Knowing Jen Mindell like I do, I believe there is more to this story. Hopefully, she can share some of that with you all at some point. Stay tuned. In the meantime, I suggest snatching up one of their banh mi sandwiches while you can.
Re: “Food Review: Flames 231”
This review is insightful, evocative, and it builds intrigue. Best of all, it does not give the impression that it was written by a robot. If you're reading the review, chances are you're not in the restaurant, tasting for yourself. The writing is the dish, and it delivers.