As a former server at Notti Bianche, I just want to let the current management know how disgusted it made me to see your advertisement in the latest issue of The Washingtonian. First, I find it misleading, if not deceitful, to still claim three stars, especially since NB has not appeared in any of Tom Sietsema’s Seasonal Dining Guides since the departure of Chef Tony Chittum. Second, to claim that NB made Washingtonian’s “Top 100 Restaurants,” in the same issue where it is listed as an “Outgoing” Top 100 Restaurant, is totally repugnant and utterly asinine.
Having watched Notti Bianche go to hell in a hand bag over the last two years has been a sad affair indeed. I was there when former manager, Danny Boylen, received his Rammy, and I was there when The Washington Post awarded Chef Chittum three well-deserved stars. Since I left in 2007, I have seen how subsequent managers and chefs have eroded NB’s sterling reputation. Accordingly, I just wanted to take the opportunity to remind the current management that NB is no longer Chef Chittum’s baby; nor is it the same restaurant managed by Mr. Boylen (and that’s not saying much).
Don’t forget that Notti Bianche is the third restaurant in five years to occupy that dank, parking garage on New Hampshire Avenue. With what I’ve seen, I’m sure it won’t be the last.
