Wednesday, August 5, 2009

A nice summer dinner at Chez Max

Chez Max is one of the closest restaurants to us and one we have a tendency to take for granted. Classic French food is often thought of as "old school" but I don't believe that is the case. It's a comforting cuisine that leaves one satisfied without the feeling of overindulgence other comfort foods often bring.

Last Friday, Bob and I had a great meal at Chez Max. One thing I love about Chez Max is they take reservations and even if it's last minute and they are busy, they will do all they can to fit you in.

We arrived and Annie (one of the owners and the hostess) welcomed us with the familiarity of seeing an old friend.

We were seated and each ordered a glass of the house Brut ($8.95) while reviewing the menu. Our server, Rollin, apprised us of the specials and we decided to share a bowl of the She Crab Soup ($7.95) and the Warm Vermont Goat Cheese and Portabello Mushrooms with Shallots and Red Wine Vinaigrette ($9.95). The soup was creamy and full of crab and had a touch of sherry. The goat cheese was tangy and the mushrooms and dressing cut the richness of the cheese to make for a very good appetizer.

For entrees, Bob chose one of favorite dishes, the Veal Tenderloin sautéed with mushrooms served with a Cognac Cream sauce ($26.95). I stepped out of my usual box (I've been doing that a lot lately and it's working well for me) and ordered the Grilled Lamb Chops with garlic, thyme, rosemary served with a Merlot sauce ($28.95). All of the entrees come with a simple but terrific mixed green salad with house dressing and are served with the chef's starch and vegetable (mashed potatoes and sauteed green beans). We also ordered a bottle of Chateau Ferrande 2005 Red Bordeaux ($48) to have with the meal.

Bob's veal was it's usual terrific self....tender and richly flavored. My lamb chops were great. Four lollipop chops, cut thickly, well seasoned and cooked to a perfect medium rare.

As always, Chez Max served a wonderful meal with terrific service in a welcoming atmosphere. Chez Max is located at 10622 Patterson Avenue, just west of Pump Road. They are open Tuesday through Saturday for dinner. http://chezmaxva.com/home.htm.

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