It's a small, intimate restaurant, and it tends to heat up pretty good in there--we shed our layers rather quickly, even when it's cold outside. The staff is always very friendly, and was accomodating of our little guy (not quite a year old) when we recently took him with us.

Of course, it's all about the food. It seems to have a soul. Often a sense of whimsy. The menu's constantly changing. New flavors integrated into old favorites. The wife still pines nostalgiac for the "Fried Chicken Of Your Dreams" she had last summer (the menu warned that only people ordering the whole dish can get the amazing biscuit -- nobody else!). On one December visit, there was an appetizer of potato latkes -- just the perfect bit of nostalgia for this Jewish boy, who hadn't had such a thing in years. Last Sunday, we had the duck breast--perfectly pink, on collard greens with a surprising--and delicious--spicy kick. Little cracklins' of duck skin were sprinkled over the dish. Black-eyed peas. Yum. One of the desserts we shared included a buttermilk ice cream on the side. It was amazing (the apple crisp it accompanied wasn't bad either).

There are always vegetarian options; we're pretty sure there's always fish too. The wine list has plenty of options but isn't intimidating -- and the staff is helpful should you need some advice.
It can get pricey, sure--but like we said, it's a special occasion place. The obvious care that goes into the food, and the execution behind it, minus the pretention you often see in a nice restaurant is so, so compelling.

Check out the Web site; you should give 'em a call for a reservation if you want to try it out.

And, hey -- should it prove addictive, don't say we didn't warn you.