514-C South Van Dorn Street, ALexandria, VA 22304 (703) 751-3133

I was fortunate enough to be invited for sushi with Neil in Northern Virginia on Sunday. The restaurant is relatively non-descript in a strip mall, next to a kebob shop. We were seated in front of the bar where we could see the sushi, sashimi, and rolls being prepared to order.

Both of us ordered the Salmon sampler ($15.95). The sampler came with a bowl of what I think was miso soup (slightly different from what you get at Japanese Steakhouses, as this had tofu in it), as well as an iceberg lettuce salad with ginger dressing. The soup was hot and tasty, and the salad had a nice crunch to it. The server also brought us a small bowl of edamame, and two small fried wonton like pieces filled with cream cheese.

I’ll admit it was a bit of a challenge to not look like a novice, with chopsticks being the only utensils provided, but I managed. Neil, having eaten there frequently, is the chopstick expert, even though I managed to hide my ineptitude.

The platters arrived, almost overflowing with wonderful delicacies (sake [norimaki], nigiri, and temaki) . The salmon was fresh and firm. The rice was just sticky enough. The nori, however, was more than just a bit tough, which made eating the temaki rather difficult. The platter was finished with a serving of wasabi and ginger, along with a daikon salad.

The dining was an experience that was nice on a Sunday evening. When I’m next in the area, they’re sure to be on my list!

Food: (4.25)
Service: (4.75)
Price: (4.25)
Overall: (4.5)

4108 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23508

Perhaps the worst experience I’ve ever had. Blue Shirted employee took order (2 double cheeseburgers, large fries, medium drink). Line continued behind me. She left the line to go box fries; kept telling her employees “please pick fries from left to right, front to back so everyone gets hot fries”. Problem was fries were not hot. Took over 8 minutes to get my double cheeseburgers, which were so cold the cheese didn’t even partially melt. Fries were at room temperature. Customers behind me wondered where she went as she didn’t say “Line is closed”, “I’ll be right back” or anything. Customers were forced over to the remaining open line (at 11:45 AM! ONE LINE OPEN!) where they were subjected to a longer wait than should have been. No explaination, no apology, nothing.

The lobby tables were FILTHY, and it was quite evident that they had not been wiped down in some time, with food debris, spilled drinks, etc. on them. Regardless of the fact that this is the closest restaurant to campus where I work, I doubt if I will be making a return visit. After today’s experience, I certainly can’t recommend anyone else eat there either.

Food: (0)
Service: (0)
Price: (0) [What price can you put on cold, tasteless food?]
Overall: (0)

Went with some friends to the Isle of Capri Italian Restaurant, located atop the Holiday Inn Sunspree on Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach VA.
The atmosphere makes dining a pleasure. I ordered the veal marsala ($18.95), while Randy ordered the Chicken Milanese ($15.95), and Nellie & Louise both ordered the veal chop ($27.95).

Most things on the menu are a la carte where there are bountiful appetizers and salads (the Caesar salad is prepared tableside and is $6.95 per person (minimum 2 persons)).

Since it was Louise’s 85th birthday, she indulged in a bottle of White Zinfandel ($20) which she found crisp and delicious. The servers kept our glasses full, the bread plate replenished, and we never wanted for anything.

Our server even surprised Louise with a special piece of birthday cake that was served with a raspberry reduction.

The cost for the dining experience for 4 was (after tip) $160, but it was a night to remember.

Food: (4.75)
Service: (5)
Price: (4.25)
Overall: (4.5)