Tag Archives: valet

Prix Fixe Perfection at Marcel’s

When it comes to elegant dining, look no further than well-known chef/owner Robert Wiedmaier’s Marcel’s in popular Foggy Bottom.  With classic French training and a Belgian heritage, Wiedmaier serves decadent dishes with an authentically European flair – a refreshing nod to traditional cuisine that is hard to come by in a sea of contemporary dining establishments.

Although Chef Wiedmaier’s return to traditional French Picture 23favorites is perfect for those looking for a rich sauce to accompany a decadent cut of meat, Marcel’s does keep it fresh with modern dishes for those looking for a lighter take on the evening.  From juicy lamb medallions wrapped in phyllo with spinach and duxelles, to Hamachi crudo with pink grapefruit and cilantro puree, Marcel’s is sure to please even the most discerning palate.  The tempting prix fixe dinner menu is organized in a choice of three, four, five or seven courses (one look at the menu and you will most likely opt for seven!).  Whichever you choose, with just one bite, you’ll understand why this award-winning French gem earned The Washingtonian’s “100 Best Restaurant’s of 2010” honor.

Insider Tip: Along with its several prix fixe course selections, Marcel’s also offers a Pre-Theatre three course selection before 7 PM for just over $50.  Valet park your car at the restaurant and a sharp Mercedes will chauffeur you to the Kennedy Center for an elegant evening out.

Boyds – Dressing Philadelphia for 70 Years

Boyds is a clothing store in the heart of Rittenhouse Square that opened seventy years ago and continues to offer the finest and most exclusive clothing from around the world to its customers. Built Picture 8on a firm foundation of customer service and attention to detail, Boyds is the go-to place for the finest clothing in Philadelphia.

Inside the mood is classy, with Oriental-style rugs, high ceilings, thick Greek columns and detailed crown moldings. Boyds has a men’s and women’s department that offers the best designers available, from Catherine Malandrino to Armani, Hugo Boss and Alberta Ferretti. Accessories, Boyds has it covered, with Manolo Blahnik’s straight out of SATC and classy handbags that beat the trend, like Lanvin and Gucci.  The services department is unparalleled, offering free alterations from the best European tailors state-side.

Don’t worry about figuring out how to get there – Boyds has always offered free valet parking for store visitors. And if you get hungry while you shop, pop into Boyds’ cafe Raw for a soup and salad or some refreshing sushi. Because there is nothing wrong with a wasabi lobster roll on the side of your Ike Behar.

An Intoxicating Experience at Absinthe

Mix France’s passion for the art of dining, Northern Italy’s seasonal-inspired menus, and Top Chef Jamie Lauren’s cultured American influence and you have an explosion of rich flavor and buttery emotion that lingers on every taste bud long after you leave.

Absinthe Brasserie & Absinte cabinetBar in charming Hayes Valley has a vintage french wine list (Wine Spectator 2009’s Award of Excellence Winner to be fair) and assortment of fine cheeses alone that will impress even the most discerning of foodies.  Except how could anyone not be further enticed by menu items like Steak Tartare with poached quail egg and habanero or Charoula-Rubbed Lamb Loin with cucumber relish.  Feeling like a French royale? Absinthe serves Tsar Nicoulai Farm-Raised Osetra Caviar for $75 an ounce.

In addition to the fine dining, and for the upscale foodie on a budget, Absinthe has a separate Belle Epoque-inspired bar space featuring designer cocktails and cafe style small plates.  Pair the strength of Absinthe’s atmosphere with a “Sacred Heart” tequila/absinthe cocktail and this brasserie will have you seeing “la fee verte”.