Mimi's hits a sour note
1. The tables in the front are too tightly arranged, and more suited for a bar. Not enough room for appetizers, main courses, drinks, cocktails. The whole set up was claustraphobic, with waiters not able to navigate between tables and other patrons elbowing me.

2. I was looking forward to singing, spoken word and background artists, but was disappointed to have a loud band play throughout my dinner, prohibiting me from having conversations with my co-workers. I understand they were there because of a "party", but you forgot the consideration of the rest of the crowd. I witnessed several large tables turn over quickly after not being able to enjoy their meal over the music. I had spoken to my staff enthusiastically about the singers, and wait staff and how talented they were; what a shame to be overshadowed by a so-so, loud band; perhaps consider acoustic, or turning the volume way down was an option that of course no one considered, because the 'party' that booked the band payed more $$ ?

3. Train the staff better; my waiter, although very well intentioned, opened our two bottles of wine, and sat them on the table, never offering me a taste and pouring the table theirs. This is SOP (standard operating procedure) for any fine food establishment. This happened twice. TGI Fridays wait staff knows better than this.

Also, half the wines on the menu were out! It's not like there aren't liquor stores in the area!!-- Who's in charge of ordering supplies there? Also, re: the dessert menu: No prices for the dessert drinks, but prices for the desserts? Confusing.

I asked for a sharp knife after getting my meat dish and the server looked at me blankly and gave me a rolled set of silver ware from the next table; classy move!

Servers took forks away with finished courses, but no replacement tableware came; we had to ask, while our food chilled.

4. Food: for premium prices, you need to have better and larger portions. The duck was a little dry, and everyone's portions looked tiny.

If they're trying to be in the same league as DC Coast, they need to work on the room, training the staff better, better treatment of non party guests, and fine tune the entrees.    [31 Dec 2003 11:21:33]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: Maybe the Duck

     ­Jonesy, Washington, DC