Very Simple at Vermilion

This week a new friend took me to a very "Stacey" restaurant in charming Old Town Alexandria.  I have been working here since October but really have not explored much more than Starbucks, the Tapas place next door and Paper Source. 

Vermilion, located five blocks from my office on King Street is charming, artsy, rustic with a contemporary edge. The bar, where I started with a great glass of Pinot Nior was warm, upscale but not pretentious. The chef prides himself on using local, fresh and the finest ingredients--- I have to say the quality of my meal reflected that. I ordered Butternut Squash Soup that was adorned with pistachios followed by a Beet Salad with hazelnut encrusted goat cheese. My friend ordered duck and though I choose not to eat things like duck and rabbit, I must admit it look DELICIOUS. They certainly understand that presentation is almost as important as the selections they serve. Great wine and beer selection and service to match. They were very concerned that my untouched soup was going to get cold as I blah, blah, blahed waiting on my dining companions food. Even a bit chilled the soup was AMAZING. I consider this my first real Old Town dining experience and I was very pleased. I think this is only the beginning of my OTA culinary tour. Next stop, Rustico (owned by the same people that own my DC favorite bar, ChurchKey).