The Po Boy at the French Restaurant, A Review of Vermilion

I have always wanted to go to Vermilion and finally took the plunge one spring afternoon.  I am something of a French fanatic, and Vermilion happens to be one of the best restaurants in Greater Washington, not to mention the best French bistro in Old Town Alexandria.  Needless to say, Vermilion had me as curious as a cat.  I am happy to report my curiosity was well rewarded.   

A colleague of mine decided we would take in Vermilion together.  He had undertaken the 45 minute drive from Columbia, Maryland, to attend meetings in Old Town; so, as is our custom, we have lunch or an earlier dinner at a restaurant neither of us has visited before.  At first glance, Vermilion was smaller than I imagined.  The ambiance seems to have been designed to set an atmosphere conducive for romance rather than a mid-day “lunch-capade”.  Vermilion offers an ambiance that could rival the most romantic restaurant setting anywhere in the DMV.  In fact, I will become an instant super hero the moment I take my wife there for a night away from the children.  Actually, I did not intend to return to the office after lunch; so, the rich Mediterranean style seating, cushions and wall décor felt very relaxing to me.  The service was everything I would expect from a French restaurant, just short of amazing, but the food certainly exceeded all my expectations. 

My colleague and I each chowed down on a shrimp po boy.  I was ultimately surprised to see a po boy on the menu at a French restaurant of Vermilion’s caliber.   Though sharing common ancestry and inspiration, French and Louisiana Creole cuisine are very different.  Notwithstanding, this sandwich was simply fantastic!  The Creole potato salad was a bit tangy but nonetheless a nice compliment.  The price fits the meal and the reputation, but the experience is well worth every penny.

Vermilion

1120 King Street

Alexandria, Virginia 22314

(703) 684-9669

www.vermilionrestaurant.com

Amir Clayton Powell is an advocate, author, entrepreneur, father, husband, servant of God, and warrior.  By the by, he also happens to be the Publisher of The Old School Journal™ (TOSJ) as well as the Founder & Chairman of A C Powell & Co. LLC.  Find A C on Twitter:  @AClaytonPowell.   Follow TOSJ on Facebook & Twitter.  Find books and other essays written by Amir Clayton Powell by following this link.

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