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Vermilion - Alexandria Reviews List

Vermilion - Alexandria

Vermilion features Chef Anthony Chittum menu of Contemporary American cuisine. Complimenting Chef Chittum menu is Vermilion's wine list, named one of the top wine lists in the country by Restaurant Hospitality magazine. Combining a charming location in Old town Alexandria with stylized design and atmosphere, Vermilion represents a bit of downtown sophistication. From the exposed brick in the upstairs dining room to the overstuffed pillows in the lounge downstairs, Vermilion holds something for all tastes.
See more Vermilion - Alexandria details
357 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
(357 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 357 reviews
5 stars
(170)
4 stars
(150)
3 stars
(24)
2 stars
(11)
1 star
(2)
Food 
4.4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.4 / 5
Service 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Ambiance 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Noise Level
1.9 / 3
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • fit for foodies(244)
  • special occasion(186)
  • neighborhood gem(174)
  • romantic(141)
  • notable wine list(96)
  • great for brunch(57)
Vermilion - Alexandria Reviews List
Review 1 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"I dine here whenever I have an opportunity to be in Alexandria, several times a year. The meals have always been delicious, the ingredients intriguing, fresh and beautifully combined, and the service cordial, helpful, patient and prompt. Moreover, while the meals are elegant, and regally presented, one is able to feel at home at Vermilion, whether one is in jeans or tuxedo, alone, a couple or part of a group. This is a very special place. Thank you for creating and maintaining it. Or to adapt a line favored there, with compliments to the chef."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 2 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I chose to take my cousin from Chicago to Vermillion because it was in the neighborhood. The restaurant accommodated a change in our reservation. The food was extraordinary, beet salad, risotto with wild mushrooms, fresh pea pasta. It was quiet and low key. Service was excellent. Highly recommend it.
We loved the local fresh vegetables, from farm to table really made a difference."
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 3 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Anniversary Dinner

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 3/29/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My husband & I spent our 38th year wedding anniversary at Vermilion. We had the perfect table, perfect wine, dinner, waiter and ambiance! I won't wait a whole year before going back!"
Dined on 3/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 4 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great Food, Accomodating Service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/16/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Had a catching-up dinner with girlfriends here. Vermilion has excellent food, though it's a bit on the pricey side. I opted for the beet sald, which was just divine. Both friends had steak and raved about the plate. Dessert - Nutella Cheesecake - was good, though I regret not ordering the S'more Brownie Sundae. Next time, perhaps. The waiter was very nice, took great care of us, even letting me order a glass of the wine from the tasting menu (and yes, it did pair beautifully with the beet salad)."
Dined on 4/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 5 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Entertaining for the wrong reasons

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Very smarmy waiter, extremely long waits between courses (and it was not a busy night.) The food was fair to good (especially a grouper dish), but the presentation was overly fussy. I'd hate to be a dishwasher in this restaurant, as most plates had some kind of dry or burnt-on accent. An unintentional saving grace - our fellow diners all were loud lawyer types trying to impress their younger and attractive dining companions (and seemed failing, to our amusement.) Two tables away, almost shouted: "I have two tickets to Paris that expire in August - you should come with me!" Maybe that worked later...
Needlessly expensive- and I don't mind splurging on interesting small fare. And the mint juleps...Faulkner weeps in his grave."
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 6 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Poorly trained receptionist. So-so service. Bar loud. Wine list long but not very interesting"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 7 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Vegetarian Friendly

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Went to Vermilion on a Friday night with two friends. I had forgotten they were vegetarian. There was only one veggie main dish on the menu, but several apps, and a pasta dish that could be turned into a main. The waiter came back after my friend had ordered an appetizer salad for her main and said the chef could make something vegetarian for her. What came out was a beautiful presetnation of quinoa nad mixed vegetables on sweet potato puree. Brussels sprouts, mushrooms, lots of variety. She was VERY pleased with the dish."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 8 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

New Chef...Much Better Results

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Gone is Chef Tony Chittum and in with Chef Will Morris. Vermilion is still taking the locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients approach to heart, but I like what the new guy is doing much better. Skip the cocktails, though, they're overpriced for what you get."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 9 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Consistent

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/30/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I've been to Vermillion quite a few times and love everything. Food (last visit 'checked out' the new chef and found him fabulous.) The service is perfect: gracious yet professional. Vermillion is a First Choice for me!"
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 10 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Overall a good experience.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Overall a good experience. My wife, who is more discerning, felt her choices were not as good. Also the desserts were all on the heavy side, with no lighter ones available. This was disappointing to our dining companions and no dessert was ordered."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 11 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A restaurant worth going back to...

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Tasting menu very well thought out. Speaks volume about the chef's knowledge of contemplatary cuisine. The Chef definitely has a good grasp of the subtleties involved in preparing tasty food that is not rich; an element that is sometimes overlooked in many of the restaurants I have frequented. The wine pairing was more than adequate."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2004
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Review 12 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We loved our dinner. But

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We loved our dinner. But why didn't we get Open Table points. It seems like the high end restaurants that we are fond of never permit Open Table points. Is this the restaurant's fault, or Open Table's?"
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2009
0points
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Review 13 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Not to be missed

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My husband and I first ate here two years ago when we were in the DC area, and liked it so well we came back a second time on the same trip. We especially enjoyed the bar -sociable, knowledgeable bartenders, great gin selection (found a new favorite - Bluecoat), and well mixed drinks. The restaurant was busy, and seemed to host a lot of locals. We had difficulty getting reservations both nights, but ran into others who were also back for a second helping.
On this trip, I brought a group of friends, and was reassured that everything I liked the first time was still in place. My friends agreed it totally lived up to my recommendation. The food was lovely.
"
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 14 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Meeting High Expectations

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was very well prepared, beautiful presentation and flavorful. The wait staff was very informative about wine selections and pairing with the meals."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
0points
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Review 15 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We went to Vermillion for

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We went to Vermillion for our first anniversary. The staff gave us a great table upstairs by the window. They treated us so well. We loved it. Will definitely be back."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 16 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Just a couple of weeks after

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Just a couple of weeks after a long-delayed first visit to Vermilion, we were back again because we were so impressed by it.
The menu nearly always has at least a few new seasonal offerings .. on this occasion for example one of our guests was bowled over by the pasta involving three forms of fresh green peas, which he pronounced "the best pasta dish he'd ever had." But everything we had was quite good.
Another highlight is desserts - Vermilion's offerings are original and well thought out, not at all the "same ol', same ol' stuff that too many restaurants - even some quite "fancy" ones - settle for. Here, even folks who aren't "dessert people" will be tempted.
The wine list, knowledgeable service, and quiet room complete the pic"
Dined on 04/22/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 17 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A wonderful restaurant--consistentl

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"A wonderful restaurant--consistently."
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
0points
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Review 18 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Magnificent Restaurant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Magnificent Restaurant with Outstanding Service
The service is great even during peak hours.  The wait staff appears to work well together.  If you arrive early I would recommend sitting in the lounge/bar for a snack or some interesting drinks.  Try the frickles!  The fried sour pickles are delicious.
The tasting menu is a great option for exploring a wide variety of items on the menu.  A wine pairing is offered with the tasting menu as is a beer pairing (if you ask for it).
Recently had dinner and had the tasting menu consisting of the following:
Salmon Tartar on baguette. Fresh but nothing unique.  A good starter
Baby beet salad with goat cheese, arugula, fennel and walnut vinaigrette.  The sweet yellow beets were a great contrast to
"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 19 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Can't wait to return

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This is one of our favorite spots in Alexandria. The food is fresh and prepared in innovative ways. The service is always top notch. The grilled octopus appitizer was tasty and tender. The pork roast was delicious and done to medium rare as asked. The salmon was also wonderful."
Dined on 04/22/2013
 2009
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 20 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

This is a lovely place. We

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This is a lovely place. We were seated upstairs and it felt quite close. Downstairs looked more inviting and comfortable. Conversation was difficult. In spite of that, the service was outstanding. Each course was carefully prepared and explained. The wine list has a lot to offer for every budget. Our server (and all of the staff) was outstanding. Try the scallop appetizer. It was delicious."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 21 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

One of my favorites

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Love the tasting menu and wine pairings! The combination of flavors is amazing. Both the food and service are consistently outstanding"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2007
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 22 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This restaurant has not lost

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This restaurant has not lost a beat with their new chef. The squid and sweetbread appetizers were delicious as were the beef and lamb entrees. We sat upstairs where the noise was moderate. There is quite a bar scene downstairs and I would recommend that anyone who wants an evening out with friends to avoid that downstairs."
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 23 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

My party of 4 included two

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"My party of 4 included two friends from NYC who consider themselves demanding restaurant critics and a vegetarian who is herself a fabulous cook; they were all very pleased. A thoughtful menu, which is seasonally adjusted and locally sourced. Organics emphasized. The service was knowledgable and engaged well with the group. A very nice evening."
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 24 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

We've been a couple times

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We've been a couple times before and had great experiences, but this must have been an off night."
Dined on 04/16/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
0points
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Review 25 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Amazing dinner. Knowledgeable

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Amazing dinner. Knowledgeable waitstaff and sexy atmosphere. Definitely recommend for anniversaries and other special events!"
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
0points
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Review 26 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Delicious. We went for brunch.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Delicious. We went for brunch. My salmon was petfect. My husbands omlet was very good."
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 27 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

splurge that's worth it

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Terrific food and conversation with old friends...pricey but worth it for celebrating a beautiful warm night on the town. Lovely presentation of all plates, good wine, nice servers. Need more vegetarian/vegan options."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 28 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Absolutely delicious meal,

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Absolutely delicious meal, and the staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome and special for our anniversary dinner. They gave us our choice of tables, provided us each with a comped glass of champagne, and brought out an amuse bouche for us, as well. The wine we selected was phenomenal, and reasonably priced ($40). We thought it was a great value for the generous portions of high-end food and overall experience. We definitely hope to celebrate another special occasion at Vermilion, and also hope to check out the bar/lounge next time. The bar area looked so charming and the drinks sounded very interesting."
Dined on 04/09/2013
 2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 29 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food and ambiance were

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food and ambiance were amazing. Our bartender acted like we were imposing on her even though we were the first to sit down. She was not totally underwhelming."
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2011
0points
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Review 30 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We went for our 34th anniversary

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We went for our 34th anniversary and it was awesome! We'd never been there before but had always wanted to try it. It surpassed our expectation. They found out it was our anniversary and made a big deal about it. The tasting menu was superb. Wine list was short but very well thought out with good quality choices. Atmosphere was great and it ended up being the perfect choice for our special occasion! Would love to go again soon."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
0points
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Review 31 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Truly appreciated the care

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Truly appreciated the care and attention by the wait staff as we celebrated a special occasion. Each cour"
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, kid-friendly, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 32 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Cozy candlelight dining, great food

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I went to Vermilion with a friend on a week night. She had the vegetarian tasting menu with the wines, and I had the regular tasting menu with the wines. It was absolutely delicious. The presentation was elegant. The wines were excellent accompaniments to the dishes. The service was excellent and unobtrusive, which I particularly appreciate -- I was there to talk with my friend, and the wait staff did their job without interrupting the flow of our conversation, which is hard to find these days. One note - the lighting is firelight and candlelight, not bright and cheerful, so if your preference is for bright rather than cozy, this is not your place. I loved it."
Dined on 04/04/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 33 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Why even THINK about going back?

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The restaurant has nothing special to recommend it when compared with others in with a la carte menus and entrees around $30. Not only that, it is noisy. The staff, while polite and efficient, are cold and confident they work in the best restaurant that has ever been. This is the second time there. Both visits were the same. And both times it appears to be a place to take a date to impress the date with price etc."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2012
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Review 34 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

There is nothing bad to say

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"There is nothing bad to say about this restaurant and its staff. We were treated to a spectacular meal served courteously and professionally. The staff went out of their way to ensure our anniversary was memorable. The food was spectacular and presented beautifully. I would go back anytime and recommend it to anyone I know."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 35 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Overpriced

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Once again a decent but way overpriced dinner at Vermillion"
Dined on 04/02/2013
 2010
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Review 36 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great experience at Vermilion

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We're out-of-towners and had been unable to get a reservation at Vermilion on a previous trip. Friends in Alexandria highly recommended it. This time, a reservation was made, though only a time a bit later than preferred was available. Our party of four arrived 20 minutes early, as parking posed no problem, and despite the early arrival we were promptly seated upstairs. It's a lovely, intimate restaurant.
The food, all of it, was fabulous. My Maryland fluke was excellent, our scallop appetizer just right. Our friends ate every bite of their choices, and we were all happy. Excellent service, too.
We had just eaten at Frank Stitt's Highlands Bar and Grill in Birmingham three nights previously, and Vermilion came close to equaling it."
Dined on 04/02/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 37 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Our first visit. Vermilion

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Our first visit. Vermilion has a good reputation and lived up to it."
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2013
Special Features: notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 38 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We had a great time, loved

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had a great time, loved the appetizers entrees and desserts. I got to try two other appetizers and two entrees since we were in a group and I'd have any of them. The waiter knew his stuff."
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 39 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Elegant food preparations.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The meal was superb. The wait staff were polished and helpful in recommendations. the atmosphere was great.with the busy bar downstairs the upstairs restaurant was quiet and pleasant."
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 40 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food is excellent. The

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food is excellent. The service was just a bit slow, but acceptable. The decor is not special but very comfortable."
Dined on 03/26/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 41 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

A little disappointing, given

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"A little disappointing, given reviews I'd seen. Given the focus on local produce, the flavors of the produce and meats seemed buried under the seasoning. Service was good."
Dined on 03/26/2013
 2008
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Review 42 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

The tomato-baked eggs with

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The tomato-baked eggs with fennel sausage were wonderful. The service was adequate--server was quiet and efficient, but not enthusiastic. Interior lighting is largely dependent on north-facing street window, so diner on one side of table is backlit, while the other is blinded by light from window. In general, interior is a bit dark."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2011
Special Features: great for brunch
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Review 43 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

As good as the reviews

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Fantastic food, elegant and charming place, excellent service ... and POTUS took FLOTUS here for Valentine's Day - how cool is that? Definitely coming back here."
Dined on 03/24/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 44 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

After hearing so much about

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"After hearing so much about Vermilion, my wife and I finally went on a Saturday night. The hostess seated us promptly and said our waitress would be right over.
Things quickly went downhill from there.
Now, I must say, the food was excellent. Certain dishes (Grilled squid starter, Rockfish special) were spectacular. Others were well above average.
However, when you pay these kinds of prices, you are paying for a total experience, and I must say, the waitress simply was not up to snuff. She was standoffish. She only addressed me, and pretty much ignored my wife. She seemed sort of put off by the fact that she was actually working and had to, like, take our orders and what not. It made things sort of uncomfortable."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2001
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 45 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The best casual elequant restaurant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The best casual elequant restaurant in Alexandria. You can't beat the blend of excellent and inventive food, service and ambiance."
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2004
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 46 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The best and most unpretentious

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The best and most unpretentious place to go for lunch or dinner. Consider it casual eloquent."
Dined on 03/21/2013
 2004
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Review 47 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Wonderful meal! Wonderful

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Wonderful meal! Wonderful service! Having recently moved from Monterey, CA to northern VA, this is the best dining out experience we have had here. We will return!"
Dined on 03/20/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 48 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Very good food and the service was excellent."
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic
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Review 49 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 50 for Vermilion - Alexandria
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Went here to celebrate my

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Went here to celebrate my wife's birthday. We have been here a few times and she has enjoyed it. We were seated upstairs along the window overlooking King Street. Great view and ambiance. Our waiter Forrest was very good when interacted with us, but he must have had a big section becauses we waited a while for him to take our order and to bring our check. His review of the nutella cheesecake was spot on (disappointing)- not much cheesecake or nutella.
We both opted for a starter and an entree instead of the tasting menu. We weren't high on the beet salad or the dessert offered, but the fluke and the flank steak looked great. I had the baby carrotts and the sirloin. My wife had the scallops and the sirloin. The food was outstanding."
Dined on 03/17/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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