Posts Tagged ‘2941’
From Fancy French to BOGO: 2941 Offers Lunch Special
Posted by Sally Traynham / Monday, May 7th, 2012
Photo by Stefanie Gans
Back in January 2941 relaunched with an upper-scale, a la carte Mediterranean menu. Chef Bertrand Chemel blames the decline of diners to the downward economy, of course, as well as the crippling construction on 495. Set in an office park, 2941 relies on drivers instead of foot traffic making it a frustrated experience to get to the Falls Church restaurant.
Now five month’s after the remodel, 2941 couldn’t be any further than its former persona of fine-dining and haute French cuisine with its recent BOGO (buy one lunch entree, get one entree free) coupon in the Sun Gazette.
Because 2941 “switched from [primarily] a destination restaurant to a neighborhood restaurant…the BOGO deal is a progressive marketing piece,” explains Jonathan Schuyler, manager and sommelier at 2941. “We’d thought we’d reintroduce ourselves, get the people who haven’t seen us before, be able to come in and take a sneak peak.” Previous promotions since the renovations have included half-priced wines and half-price burgers at the bar during March Madness.
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Palates Behind the Plate: Bertrand Chemel of 2941
Posted by Joey Hernandez / Thursday, March 8th, 2012
A series dedicated to the palates behind NVM’s 2011 Fifty Best Restaurants. We know what they serve, but what do they eat?
Restaurant: 2941
2011 Rank: #3
Executive Chef: Bertrand Chemel
NoVA’s best dish:
Whole Peking Duck from Peking Gourmet Inn.
Never would I ever eat:
Very fishy stew.
After work grub:
Korean pancake stuffed with vegetables.
At home cooking:
Onion quinoa with olive oil, thyme and bay leaves for the kids’ supper on Sunday.
Burger, burrito or bánh mì:
Bánh mì.
Photo: Michael Palmer
[tips for the food desk / follow @JoeyHndz]
Just In: 2941 Opens Monday, January 30th
Posted by Stefanie Gans / Wednesday, January 25th, 2012
After passing all of its inspections, 2941 will start serving its new upper-scale Mediterranean menu in the renovated space this coming Monday.
Look for more details later today (menu items!) and check out NVM’s interview with Chef Bertrand Chemel about the economy’s impact on losing its French fine dining label.
Photo by Sally Traynham
First Look at Renovated 2941: Battered Economy Led to Dismissal of Fancy French Restaurant
Posted by Stefanie Gans / Wednesday, January 18th, 2012
“The French isn’t going to die. It’s still me cooking,” Chef Bertrand Chemel says, defending his menu change at 2941. The Falls Church restaurant closed last year to renovate the kitchen and to rework the entire menu, turning from fancy French to upper-scale Mediterranean. Chemel expects 2941 to reopen next week.
“For about four years we tried to change the perception,” the French chef admits about his struggling high-end restaurant. “People come here for celebrations and at the end of it, their check was high and that was the only thing they remembered.”
The economy played a role in Chemel’s decision to temporarily shutter the restaurant, acknowledging that selling a tasting menu in this climate–and in Falls Church–wasn’t working any longer. But the dramatic act of closing also let him finally shift attitudes. “We tried to do so many different types of menus and different types of advertisements, but it never changed,” Chemel says, adding, “We do run a business and it shows over the years that the percentage of tasting menu we used to sell, to now, declined a lot.”
With his kitchen equipment starting to break about two years ago, and the battered economy impacting sales about a year ago, Chemel used the opportunity to campaign for his updated restaurant.
Although, the menu won’t reveal a complete change as Chemel has been showcasing pasta dishes for years. The new 2941 will unveil different types of pasta, including buckwheat and chickpea. Another shift stems from ingredients. Before the renovation, only 20 percent of 2941′s ingredients came from local sources. That number will now jump to 50-60 percent.
Local sourcing, however, doesn’t translate to local drinking. Chemel hasn’t warmed to Virginia wines. “It’s very hard to sell to a guest a Virginia wine that we [buy at] $40 a bottle, and after we do the mark-up, they can have another one that comes from California and the quality will be much better,” says Chemel.
Creativity still reigns in 2941′s blended Italian-Spanish-South of France-American restaurant. ”If they like the dishes I used to make on the tasting menu, I think they will enjoy it as a la carte size or appetizer size,” says Chemel, noting he’ll transfer some of his tasting menu dishes to the standing menu. “What I think those people are looking [for] is to come to a beautiful place, but still to have the same quality food.”
But that doesn’t mean white tablecloths and what New Times food critic Melissa McCart terms, “dinner prison.” “People don’t want to stay two or three hours at the table,” Chemel observes, “and that’s the thing that changed from a long time ago.” Of course though, it will all circle back. “I think food is like cosmetics and clothing,” Chemel opines, ” it’s always going to come back.”
Chemel’s not too saddened about the change though,”I try to make myself happy to make my guests happy. I will still do fine dining, but in a more casual way [with] more friendly service, not surly service…” The native French-speaking chef then quickly chimes in, “I’m not sure about the exact wording.”
View the photos here.
Photos by Sally Traynham
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Where Will the Obama Family Eat in 2012?
Posted by Stefanie Gans / Wednesday, January 4th, 2012
The Obamas flew back from Hawaii yesterday and now it’s Game On for where the First Family will dine in 2012. Being an election year, the Os will probably not find much time to eat in their home city, which will make an appearance all that more special.
I’m thinking they’ll want to try the re-vamped 2941, the eat-in-only cheesy, porky and salty calzone from Pupatella, or ribs from Pork Barrel BBQ.
Any other guesses?
More in Barackulars after the jump.
Photo by Andrew Harrer / Getty Images via Mrs. O
Stop Action Viewing From the Kitchen Renovations of 2941
Posted by Stefanie Gans / Wednesday, January 4th, 2012
When there’s a construction crew remodeling your kitchen, it can feel like you haven’t cooked a meal in months. The progress seems slooooow and frustration builds with each costly hour.
Want to watch an even slower renovation process? Check out the Construction Cam placed in the kitchen of 2941. The Falls Church high-end restaurant closed its doors at the beginning of this year to retool the menu (bye bye fancy French, hello more-casual Mediterranean) and update the kitchen and dining room.
The camera only updates once a minute, appearing as if nothing is happening. Maybe we should get some Pixar designers over there to stage some entertaining – and faster – hammer on metal action.
Photo screenshot of 2941.
2941 Global Flavors Menu — Egypt
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Thursday, December 1st, 2011
All turkeyed out?
Image: nicepictures/Shutterstock
Me, too. Good thing Restaurant 2941 is still spicing things up with their Global Flavors series — special prix-fixe menus inspired by different places around the globe.
For the next two weeks, 2941 will serve their three-course prix-fixe menu of Egyptian food, featuring:
Shourbet Ads
red lentils soup, tamiya, coriander
Stuffed Quail
grilled over charcoal, stuffed with bulgur, wrapped in grape leaves, tahina, whole wheat bread
Om Ali
phyllo custard, pistachio ice cream, orange blossom foam
The prix-fixe menu is $42 per person for dinner only and last through Friday, December 9.
For reservations, call 703-270-1500.
2941 Restaurant is located at 2941 Fairview Park Drive in Falls Church.
-Julia Harbo
Celebrate Thanksgiving at 2941
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, November 21st, 2011
Well folks, it’s official: the holidays are upon us. We tried to deny it, but we can do so no longer.
And if you still don’t have your Thanksgiving plans set, well then don’t despair; 2941 invites you and yours to dine with them this Thursday for an elegant Thanksgiving meal. They can offer wonderful food, beautiful views and graceful service.
Check out their decadent Turkey day menu:
Appetizers
BUTTERNUT SQUASH VELOUTÉ, cinnamon marshmallow, celery leaves
TUNA TARTARE, truffle-nut vinaigrette, shaved celery, watermelon radishes
CAESAR SALAD, Parmesan dressing, brioche crostini, romaine hearts
HUDSON VALLEY FOIE GRAS, quince confit, spinach, corn bread (supp. $12)
LOBSTER BISQUE, butter poached lobster, fennel, white truffle bun
MEYER LEMON CRAB CAKE, jumbo lump & sweet crab, fine herbs, crunchy fennel salad
Main Courses
SEA BASS, celery root purée, roasted parsnip, chive émulsion
MAPLE LAWN FARM’S TURKEY BREAST, chestnut & mushroom stuffing, sweet potato, cranberry jam, gravy
BUTTERNUT SQUASH RAVIOLI, ricotta, almond biscotti, chestnuts
BEEF DUO, braised short ribs, rib eye, pomme purée, Savoy cabbage, baby turnips (supp. $10)
Desserts
2941 APPLE PIE, baked in a bag, served with vanilla ice cream
CRANBERRY PUDDING, pain d’ epice croutons, apple cider sorbet
PUMPKIN SPICED FRENCH TOAST, toasted pumpkin seeds, chocolate ice cream
PEAR SOUFFLÉ, crispy nougat meringue, chestnut crème anglaise (supp. $5)
Thanksgiving dinner at 2941:
Thursday, November 24th
Seating from 11 am – 8 pm
Three-Course Prix Fixe Thanksgiving Dinner: $65/ $25 children’s menu
And it’s not just for Thanksgiving; 2941 is the perfect place to celebrate the holidays.
See all that they have to offer online at www.2941.com
– Jennie Whistler
Posted by Warren Rojas / Wednesday, June 29th, 2011
(Image: Facebook)
Executive chef Barry Koslow will close out his tenure at Tallula on Tuesday, July 5.
“I’ve decided it’s time to move on,” Koslow shared in an email.
Koslow’s imminent departure signals a very real changing of the guard at the Neighborhood Restaurant Group‘s fine dining/gastropub hybrid, a shift that began last year when EatBar chef Joey Alvarez split to join forces with Peter Pastan.
According to an NRG spokeswoman, the cooking duties at Tallula will be spread amongst in-network talent. ”
While we are in a transitional phase we are being supported by the great depth both at Tallula and the other restaurants, especially by some of our up and coming chefs that have shown a lot of promise,” she stated, adding, “There’s no immediate executive chef taking the spot.”
The spokeswoman also indicated that chef Brian Wilson, who has logged time in several high profile kitchens (2941, Eola, New Heights, Palena), has been behind the EatBar burners for several months now. *Updated: 6/29 @ 3 p.m.* Brian Wilson decamped from EatBar earlier this month.
Although he expressed a desire to decompress for a spell and reconnect with his budding family (he has a 10-month old baby girl), Koslow did leave the door open to returning to the hospitality game.
“I have many options to sort through while I take my first brake [sic] from the kitchen in 12 years,” Koslow suggested. No word, yet, if said “options” include tackling that nouveau deli concept he floated earlier this month.
–Warren
Posted by ryan / Friday, May 6th, 2011
What to do? What to do? This Sunday is your chance to show her how much you appreciate her role in your upbringing. Breakfast in bed isn’t a bad idea. Honestly though, who wakes up earlier more often than not? That’s why I would recommend an afternoon visit to one of the many classy restaurants in the area. I’m just guessing, but she’ll probably like that idea a bit more.
2941
Voted one of the best restaurants in the region, taking your mother here would certainly be an elegant way of showing your gratitude. A three-course prix-fixe meal featuring an array of artisan cheeses, pasta, and seafood is available for $68 per person. Reservations strongly recommended. 2941 Fairview Park Drive, Falls Church; 703-270-1500
Bistrot Lafayette
Treat your Mom to a delectable French meal by reserving your table now. A three-course prix-fixe lunch runs from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm. A three-course dinner starts at 4:30 pm, and runs just past 9 pm. The cost is $35 and $48 respectively per person. Make your reservation now for what’s sure to be a memorable Mother’s Day Meal! 1118 King Street, Alexandria; 703-548-2525
Bogati Bodega & Vineyard
This Argentina-inspired winery provides an escape from the hustle and bustle. It’s only forty minutes away from the District though! All mothers will receive a rose at the wine tasting. Booking this event online will ensure that she does. The afternoon starts promptly at noon, and should last around five hours. Make memories that will last a lifetime! 35246 Harry Byrd Highway, Round Hill; 540-338-1144
The Grille at Morrison House
Executive chef Dennis Marron is offering a three–course meal for $49, which includes a choice of mimosa or freshly squeezed fruit juice. Notable options include a first course offering of Virginia Crab Cakes with cherry tomatoes, brioche and sauce gribiche, Vidalia Onion Pie with mixed greens and honey mustard, Waldorf Salad of bibb lettuce, apples, grapes, and walnuts in a celery aioli or Coquille St. Jacques: bay scallops, mushrooms, parmesan gratin and grilled bread Entrée options include a Croquet Madame on brioche bread with sliced ham, gruyere, béchamel and a fried egg. You can also expect lamb and eggs with rosemary sauce. Dessert options include Chocolate Pot de Crème with vanilla whipped cream, Profiteroles served with a trio of ice creams and warm chocolate sauce and Assorted Sorbets. 116 S. Alfred St., Alexandria; 703-838-8000
Lansdowne
Celebrate the mother in your life with the time-honored tradition of brunch at the Lansdowne Restort. The menu includes a variety of house-made soups, terrines, cured meats, an impressive seafood display, made-to-order omelets, waffles, and amazing desserts. Adults will receive a complimentary glass of Champagne. The cost is $65 per person, but only $20 for children under the age of 12. 44050 Woodridge Parkway, Leesburg; 703-729-8400
The Melting Pot
Why not surprise Mom this year with something a little out of the ordinary? Treat her to a meal that she’ll want to tell all her friends about. The Melting Pot—with locations in Arlington and Reston—is a culinary experience like no other. Fondue is a fun, easy, and delicious! Cheese and chocolate fondues are paired perfectly with bread and fruit. You can also cook your own succulent pieces of meat in between. She will not be disappointed!
Open Kitchen
If you really want to cook her something, this may be the perfect thing to do. Dads and kids can learn how to cook a gourmet meal for that special woman in their lives. Chef Jackson Yordon will teach you how to make the perfect three-course meal, after which you can eat it! The cost is $179 for two parents and one child. Each additional child is $25. The fun begins at 10:30 am. . 7115 Leesburg Pike # 107, Falls Church; 703-942-8148
Ritz-Carlton - McLean
Enjoy an extravagant brunch in the Old Dominion Room featuring omelets, carved meats, organic salads and celebratory champagne. The cost is $120 per person, unless you have children under the age of twelve. Their meal will only cost $40 (not including tax and gratuity). Another option is an Afternoon Tea with a scrumptious variety of sweets from the Pastry Shop. Reservations are recommended. 1700 Tysons Blvd., McLean; 703-506-4300
For a more comprehensive list, click here.
As far as gifts are concerned. I can only suggest you learn from their mistakes.
-Ryan Robertson