LIVE EARLIER TODAY on Good Morning Washington . . . THE WINE KITCHEN IN LEESBURG - Eat, drink and be educated!

"Good Morning Washington" on local Channel 9 (WUSA) visited the WINE KITCHEN in Leesburg, VA!  

The Wine Kitchen, whose motto is "Eat, Drink, Simply" has gotten it right.  They are filled to capacity every night for dinner . . . their staff has grown and is always extremely educated and friendly.  With a more recent Happy Hour Menu , they offer samples of delectable morsels in a much more light-hearted fashion while still presenting their always inviting DC-style atmosphere.  The Wine Kitchen's great vibe brings me in to one of my all-time favorite American Bistros time-after-time.  

The Executive Chef, Tim Rowley, is a prized possession at the Wine Kitchen and his style and relaxed demeanor add to the enjoyment of the dining experience.  He listens to his patrons if they have something to share and is available.  The local meats, produce and cheeses that he incorporates into his diverse menu, equally mirror this very "real" yet relaxed and palette-discriminating food style.  It is food you can feel good about eating, simply. 

NOTE: The Wine Kitchen currently donates a portion of all our weekday lunch proceeds to Loudoun Free Clinic to help in their mission to support health care services for Loudoun County residents who would otherwise do without.

As originally posted, I try to visit every new restaurant in the area, and the Wine Kitchen is no exception.  Not only is their food and wine selection superb, but they have a willingness to educate us and add a bit of "social" to our dining experience.  I think you will just love The Wine Kitchen that has paired with local farms and others to impress your palette. 

The décor in Leesburg reminds me of a DC restaurant.  Their style though is quite unique in that they not only serve you food and wine, but you are adorned with a "descriptive wine card" paired with each glass of wine that you order.  I love this concept because it's both educational and social. 

Whether you are ordering food or wine by the glass (prices vary and are very competitive) or you are partaking in one of their "Flights," they add a unique touch by serving you one of their Wine Cards.  It adds to your dining experience as you try to decipher from your own glass of wine whatever flavors they have poetically described on this little card.  I think you will enjoy this fun, learning experience and walk away with one of those little wine cards as a special souvenir from a very special restaurant.  It's a great concept.

There are too many dishes on the menu that I love to name, but suffice it to say "everything is top-notch."  The gourmet infusion into their farm-style dishes, as well as European introductions, appeal to the most meticulous taste buds and will possibly cause you to pause.  Some of my favorite dishes (they change often) have been the scallops (however they are being offered), the Butternut Squash Soup, and the Burrata is to die for you must try.  Others I've enjoyed have been:

The Rosemary Gnocchi - sweet potato, kale, walnuts, blue cheese and pomegranate reduction

The Hanger Steak  (A FAVORITE ) celeriac walnut risotto, sautéed spinach and shallot gastrique

The Braised Short Ribs - celeriac and black garlic puree, smoked mushrooms, sweet pan soy sauce 

Each day they have a selection of wonderful cheeses they present on their blackboard and under "Cheese and Charcuterie" offering three artisanal cheeses for $13 or a Charcuterie Plate for $12.  This is one of my favorite menu items, being Italian and enjoying worldly cheeses and platters of this type.   If you want to get a glimpse before dining, they have more than one location but the  Dinner Menu noting happy hour morsels in Leesburg is wonderful.

When it comes to their wines, it goes without saying that their name says it all!  The fact that they offer numerous non-domestic wines too from all around the world, I very much appreciate.  For several years now, I have given up on US wines (unless they are produced by a local, small vineyard) because they did not agree with my head, and I learned this stems from possibly the pesticides used or added preservatives for a long-term shelf life.  I have no worry at the Wine Kitchen, regardless, and with plenty of wine varietals to choose from and the obvious success of this restaurant today, others should mirror the concept. 

What also makes the Wine Kitchen so unique, is the offering of a smaller size portion of plated food (smaller plates).  They are certainly hearty enough, and I find them to be the  ideal portion.   The Wine Kitchen in Leesburg was one of the first to offer what I deem "gourmet" food in a lighter quantity and at a reasonable price.  The best part of this concept for me, I do not go home stuffed and feeling like I spent a fortune on dinner and a glass of wine.  Nor do I feel guilty not able to finish and having to bring home food I did not need to pay for in the first place.

The small plate concept is smart amidst a Town filled with busy, working locals, tourists on a budget venturing out, and simply people that like to go out to eat without spending a fortune . . . the Wine Kitchen has gotten it right, in my opinion, and they are filled to capacity every night for dinner because they have.

Because I originally wasn't keen on a few aesthetics of the restaurant (when they first opened up), I didn't feel compelled to return over and over if I was venturing out on a busy weekend night.  If you arrive early for your reserved table or you do not have a reservation for even one of their bar stools, you have to find a comfortable place to wait and it's not easy.  Their bar is not your typical restaurant bar, so it's too awkward to stand behind it because of those having dinner.  This leaves you in an open area amidst on-looking tables of diners and no comfortable place to lean and wait . . . this has been my only criticism of this beautiful restaurant to date.

The Wine Kitchen is a hot spot in Leesburg and you need to wait it out - your table, the food and the wine are all well worth it and your  experience will hopefully be FABULOUS.

Enjoy yourself - Mary!

The Wine Kitchen - Leesburg
7 South King Street
Leesburg, VA  20175
(703) 777-9463
The Wine Kitchen

Mary Dionisio Roberge - you can also find my blog on my Realtor web site with McEnearney Associates in Leesburg VA

Superior Nails

SUPERIOR NAILS - A RELAXING EXPERIENCE AND MORE THAN JUST NAILS.

This family-owned nail salon is by far the best in town. Paul and Terrie (Owners) treat their customers like gold.  They are obvious veterans of the business and had a salon in Sterling for many years before moving their salon to Leesburg more than 10+ years ago I believe.  They will get to know you and remember your name. My daughter loves that they are very “detailed” and do great designs that match her nail color really well!

Not only is the service excellent, it is very reasonably priced - unlike other salons, their pedicures come with paraffin wax and is not extra (check pricing though as it may vary).  Personally, I think they are the best pedi massages around - even compared to Lansdowne Spa or other hotel spas.

The environment is also very relaxing, with soothing music playing in the background.  A huge plus for me is how they allow you to truly close your eyes and relax - what I want when I go to a salon.  Many salons have lots of chatting going on and TV's blaring with news in the background - here, you will certainly catch anything important on once in a while, but music is always playing appropriate for a salon when paying to have your nails and toes done.  

This is not just a nail salon either - they also cut hair, do waxing and more. Most importantly, it is extremely clean and overall top notch.

Superior Nails is located just off Battlefield Parkway in the Exeter Shopping Center, where the new 7-11 is located.

Facebook for Superior Nails (and Hair) in Leesburg
700 Fieldstone Drive NE, Leesburg, VA 20176
(571) 918-0926

Tell Paul and Terrie that Mary sent you!

Mary's Real Estate Site

Travinia Italian Kitchen - a marvelous spot in Leesburg!

Travinia Italian Kitchen has been a great addition to Leesburg's growing restaurant scene.  With live music, outdoor seating, welcoming and fashionable decor ambiance, and great food, Travinia is sure to be one of Leesburg's hot spots this spring and summer.

First, the food: Their menu features delicious Italian comfort food and Travinia's own special dishes.  While they went through a rough patch with their food I noticed, it has been great again for the last couple of months!  Here is a sampling of  my own favorites:

• Rigatoni Bolognese: Braised Short Ribs in a red sauce with a dollop of Mascarpone (an Italian Cream Cheese that melts beautifully and in your mouth!) tops this exquisite dish, all served over a hearty bowl of Rigatoni.
• Veal Scaloppini: Simply delicious and plentiful!  I go a more Italian traditional route and have red/marinara sauce over just my Capelini instead of the veal sauce which is a lemon butter with artichokes, mushrooms and pancetta. 
• Polo Isabella: Chicken Breast (add risotto, yum!) and goat cheese with a lemon butter sauce served over a bed of spinach.  This is a favorite of many of my friends.
• Mussels: The mussels I had came in their own "nontraditional" sauce which I loved.  A wonderful treat which I highly recommend - you will not want them to take your plate if there is bread left and scooping up the sauce using your shell/spoon is a delight!
• Margherita Pizza: My daughter gets this almost every time and loves it.  Served with fresh mozzarella and plum tomatoes.  A great kid-friendly dish that adults will enjoy as well.
• I've enjoyed the Caesar, Spinach & Goat Cheese and Granny Smith Apple (not what you think) salads which are all good and plentiful.  When ordering one to accompany your own Entree, "share."
• One dish I do not recommend and commented on to a waiter for the kitchen (as did several friends who I asked not to judge them on this dish!) is the Butternut Squash Ravioli.  Why?  Simply because they are served in butter, and it is too much and does not compliment the ravioli.  Butter turns to oil too when heated for a while, so if you love Butternut Squash Ravioli as I do, ask for a sauce substitute like a "light cream."  I'd love to see them pair these with a light Sage Cream Sauce I make for my own yellow squash ravioli which would compliment it and not overpower the delicate flavor of the squash. 

Next up, ambiance: Immediately upon your entering the restaurant, you are greeted by a lovely atmosphere with plush couches and a hostess who treats everyone who arrives like gold.  I believe she has been there since the restaurant opens, and she is an incredible asset to their team.  Now that it is warm outside, you have a number of seating options:  1) indoors at gently curving rows of tables and spacious booths; 2) outdoors on the patio where there are fire pits that add charm and fun to the restaurant; or 3) the bar area, which opens up to the outdoors in the spring and summer for some wonderful breezes.  If you choose to sit indoors, you can see your food being prepared through the glass divider to the kitchen.

On the weekends, allow for a wait time, but do not be dissuaded from staying - Travinia has a spacious waiting area with plush couches and their wait times are often shorter than they say they will be.  Kids and adults alike are able to sit much more patiently than in such a relaxed environment.

The background music is lively without being loud, so it is always possible to have a conversation with your friends and family while you dine at Travinia.

And speaking of music - Travinia has live jazz every Wednesday from 7 to 10pm.  I so was pleasantly surprised to find this out when I was at dinner one evening, so we decided to stay longer to enjoy the fun duo that was performing!  And coming soon, there will be a band every Friday night from 10pm to 2am with the dining area cleared for dancing.  I can't wait for the fun to begin!

Be sure to check out this happening and delicious restaurant the next time you treat yourself to an evening out.  You will not be disappointed.

1605 Village Market Blvd SE, Suite 104, Leesburg, Virginia
http://www.traviniaitaliankitchen.com/travinia-leesburg-va.php

Los Tios Grill - Wonderful Mexican Food in Leesburg

Los Tios Grill is an authentic, family-owned Mexican restaurant and the staff is all kind, professional and very welcoming.  This cozy restaurant sits in Market Station on its main level (below Fireworks) but fills up nightly with hungry (then satisfied!) locals and visitors.  The moment you walk in, you feel the upbeat energy, as friends and family laugh and talk together, and the perfectly mixed margaritas flow.  Whether you choose to sit inside or out on the patio, you are sure to have a great time!

Atmosphere is not the only thing that makes Los Tios such a don’t-miss restaurant.  The fresh, high-quality food is incredible, and the portions more than generous!  The meal starts with warm tortilla chips and an excellent house salsa brought to your table as soon as you arrive.  Then your choices range from the usual Mexican fare like tacos, lightly fried chimichangas, sizzling fajitas, and more, to more upscale choices like their Pollo Mexicano (chicken breast topped with shrimp and a fresh cilantro sauce), and even a selection of Salvadoran dishes. 

In short, this wonderful Mexican restaurant is a cut above the rest, and will win your heart with its friendly charm and flavorfully fresh food.  Check it out the next time you have something to celebrate, or when you just want to celebrate the joys of good company and excellent food.

Don't forget to tell them Mary sent you!

Visit them today in Leesburg Los Tios Grill in Leesburg

Mary's Real Estate Site

Want to visit Leesburg for New Year's Eve? Read on . . . the latest press release!

Special "New Years Downtown" Plans Announced for
Leesburg, VA (December 22, 2011) –

The program will showcase some of the best improvisational comedy, live music and other performers in the region. Performances will take place in both auditoriums at the Tally Ho Theatre and on the Town Green. Confirmed performers include:

• Last Ham Standing
• The Amazing Nocheaux
• Swami Yohmami, the Original Sideshow Geek
• Bob’s Magic Show
• Andy Hawk & the Train Wreck Endings

The evening will end with a New Year’s countdown on the Town Green.
Tickets are $15 per person for adults and $5 for children under 12. For more information, please call 703-967-1326 or visit www.tallyholeesburg.com. In the wake of the cancellation of Bluemont Concert Series’ First Night celebration for 2011, the Tally Ho Theatre has organized a special New Year’s Eve program of family entertainment for downtown Leesburg. The festivities will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 31, 2011.
Historic Downtown Leesburg

PUCCIO's - One great New York-Style Deli here in Leesburg

Whether you are on the run on a lunch break or you want to sit and catch up with a local or two, Puccios Deli in Historic Leesburg is sure to please. The atmosphere is warm and friendly as you are usually greeted by the Owner, Eva Olah. She cares about her customers as well as their appetites. Her deli is a favorite to many for her authentic deli-style sandwiches.  Puccio's Menu

The selections are freshly-made and include Breakfast Sandwiches, Omelets, Deli-Style Sandwiches, Salads and Yummy Desserts. When you enter, you are greeted by a few cozy tables, a coffee bar (help yourself), and there is additional seating inside as well somewhat enclosed. You can enjoy a few outdoor tables situated on a beautiful front porch curb-side (as passersby enjoy their stroll on Leesburg’s sidewalks through Town) if you are lucky enough to snag one!

So let's talk about ... Food!

The sandwich selections are posted on a large New York style board on the wall with everything from home-made chicken salad (yum!) to belly-buster submarines on fresh bread that is by far one of its big appeals. Great bread! You see most of the items named after NY cities and points of interest there like the

Broadway, Prosciutto and (fresh!) mozzarella cheese, topped with lettuce, mayo, tomatoes, onions, hot or roasted peppers, Italian dressing & seasonings served on a toasted sub roll.

The Soho, my daughter's favorite, Roasted Turkey & Mozzarella Cheese (fresh!), lettuce, tomatoes, onions, peppers, mayonnaise, Italian dressing, seasonings served on a toasted sub roll. Gyro, lamb and beef, topped with cucumber dressing, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, served on Pita bread. The list goes on, including many deli meats for subs and sandwiches: Pastrami, Corned Beef, Salami, Mortadella, Meatball, more. Nine other side salads include a big favorite of mine, Mozzarella and Tomato. Wraps, more plated salads and finally Desserts complete the menu – try the NY Style Cheesecake, a Cannoli, or another fresh dessert!

Be prepared during lunch time to wait in a small line - they are busy and it’s easier to wait in line than to call during lunch. They are located on Loudoun Street, SE, Leesburg, VA 20175 - visit Puccio's Deli in Leesburg, VA.  Check hours and they are closed on Sundays.

Puccios delivers around Town and caters offering assorted trays and platters for events per person and builds a 2’ to 6' sub for events. Finally, they also offer a catered Continental Breakfast but menu options change to be sure to inquire.

Do not miss out on the best sandwiches in Town . . . you will keep going back for more as I have!  Don't forget to tell them MARY SENT YOU!

 Puccio's Deli in Leesburg, VA

Mary's Real Estate Site 

What's worth visiting in Leesburg . . . read on!

Palio of Leesburg . . . an Italian Restaurant in Leesburg’s beautiful downtown (2 W. Market Street) at the corner of King & Market is one to dine in regularly. Read the history behind the horses and Palio's name for more fascination behind the scenes.

Antonio (Nino) Pino greeted me upon my first visit to a new Italian Restaurant I couldn’t wait to try . . . his greeting was not only gracious but genuine. He exudes hospitality and has been in the food business for years it showing. Nino proceeded to greet everyone in this similar manner showing me that Palio is a restaurant here to stay.

The Chef is Gianna Piazza and wonderful. Having had many a meal created by Chef Roberto Donna (whose food I enjoyed when frequenting Galileo’s in Washington, DC working there many years) and having friends in the food business, I had a good opinion of what satisfying Italian food for me should be . . . what I wanted in Leesburg. I had briefly worked as a Client Relations & Marketing Director for a “Foo Foo” DC Catering Company (loving food that much), and I feel the food at Palio is authentic Italian . . . the atmosphere is also inviting.

I was very pleased also with the service I received (chatting in Italian myself studying for my father while in College and he being born in the States), and the selections and most importantly the pricing I feel are quite satisfying.

If you haven’t been to Palio in Leesburg, you must see for yourself (they experienced a few growing pains early on customers pouring in). There's a crowd every Friday and Saturday, so expect a short wait for a table. They had to expand almost immediately and added yet a beautiful 3rd dining area with a beautiful bar that rumor has it may soon be filled with music and dining! It’s bustling with new people every weekend - so be patient and enjoy. In my opinion, the fresh pastas and versatile offerings (eat very cheaply or not!) are plentiful while you enjoy Italian wines if you'd like that also they do switch up on occasion.

The lower tapas bar area offers a nice variety while waiting or casually dining on all fresh creations. I'm a huge fan of the meat and real cheeses they will serve in combination. For me this is a true authentic delicacy before a meal. A few patrons shared early on with me that their only complaint was the pasta was a bit sticky a time or two - not the case since! The Ossobuco (made with lamb) melts in your mouth with its creamy risotto I ordered frequently. The Veal Marsala is excellent, and my Italian father raved about it upon his very first visit. Palio serves a red (bolognese meat) sauce which is a standard for me (pastas all made freshly). The gnocchi many a friend have commented . . . melt in your mouth!

Palio is here to stay - many in a growing Leesburg have complained that they wanted more restaurants of a high quality – well, we have one. I’ll be the first to promote it and to spread the word. They have wonderful Italian Wines and again, the service and hospitality can’t be matched. Both owners of this restaurant are doing all the right things . . . it’s up to the public/Leesburg now to enjoy it! (703) 779-0060 and tell them "Maria sent you".

ROUGE BOUTIQUE & SPA on 17 S. King Street in Leesburg, VA. Also on my TOP 10 LIST. You have no idea what you’ve been missing if you have not popped in. Please visit them and tell them Mary sent you for a discount! It's owned by Anita Henry, and her style and customer service can't be matched. Her lovely daughter you will also find often in her place, and they both will greet you with warmth and smiles.

Whether you are looking for a unique gift for your wife, girlfriend, mother, sister, daughter, nieces and more . . . there is something at Rouge for them for you to feel special giving it and they receiving (while not breaking your bank!). For about 10 years I have been a loyal customer because of what one finds within the store . . . beautiful lotions, scrumptuous candles, skin-care products, fun stocking stuffers for all ages, gifts for the difficult man to please, and more. If you are seeking to give a gift of luxury to yourself or your significant other, the spa will take you away . . . massages, facials, manicures and pedicures await.

Ask Anita about where their products are from and why they recommend a certain yummy lotion or soap . . . they choose products manufactured in the USA for a reason, and their knowledge or why they only offer this or that makes the experience all the more pleasureable.

NEXT UP . . . DOGGY DO RIGHT is a professional dog training and day care facility also located in downtown Leesburg (209 E. Market Street at 703-777-8221). A sure answer to any dog training need or care need, Nancy Dryden the Owner has a wealth of experience. Very few dog owners that I have met in Leesburg (when their dog had been trained) had not been trained by Nancy to my surprise. She knows her stuff, and she is unique in that she holds a College Degree in Canine Training. I will post more to come in the next month. And until then, have fun shopping in Leesburg!


Mary Dionisio Roberge