cmbesosa

There are so many Thai restaurants in this area but each has a unique dynamic. I have now been to Sugar Palm five times and they seem to be doing everything right! The brand new space is small but the feeling created by the wall of windows and high ceilings helps to offset the size. Decor is modern, the color scheme cheerful. The staff is friendly and very accomodating; I've even been able to get several things that weren't on the menu...quite impressive! Everything I've tried there has been very tasty from appetizers to entrees to the sticky rice w/mango finale! The chef just seems to have a special touch. They change the menu periodically and have additional specials on weekends. Happy Hour (4-6) at their little eight-stool bar includes discounted potables as well as their bar menu...the $3 "Thai Tapas" as I call them. My pick from wine list: Crossings Sauvignon Blanc. I have been to Sugar Palm as a party of 1, 2, 4 & 7. Loved it every time! As a matter of fact, returning tomorrow with a party of 5.

I am a regular at Food Matters. What a fun place! The friendly atmosphere is such that by the time you leave you are likely to be on a first-name-basis with owners, the other patrons and the staff. A rare characteristic inside the beltway! I like the fact that they post the daily menu on their website: (www.foodmattersva.com), and offer a creative variety of options using the freshest of ingredients. The fresh seafood dishes are among my favorites. Love the bacon-cheeseburger with fries! Soups seem to be the perfect consistancy. On Wednesdays, the all-you-can-eat pasta offering seems to fill the place up in a hurry. The wine tastings are unique, educational, and entertaining, and include some wonderful high-end munchies from the kitchen. Their private dining room holds about 16 people and is an excellent venu for your own personel, customized function! In warmer weather, the outdoor patio gives you a view of the Brenman Park Lake on one side, and sunset on the other. It's tucked away, off the beaten path, so I hope folks find it; it's a great discovery!