Restaurant News
Dish
Finally!
Wednesday, September 26, 2007; Page F03
After one of the longest birthings in recent memory, the Ritz-Carlton is about to deliver a restaurant inspired by Eric Ripert, the chef of the esteemed Le Bernardin in New York. Westend Bistro by Eric Ripert (1190 22nd St. NW) is expected to open its doors to the public Nov. 1, with a former sous-chef from Le Bernardin, Leonardo Marino, running the kitchen.
Ripert describes the future 120-seat restaurant as "my life story," involving "a little of Le Bernardin," his world-class seafood venue, with "a lot of my childhood," including Provence and the French Riviera. Given Westend's location, the Chesapeake Bay will also be a culinary influence, says Ripert, who will be visiting Washington "a lot" to monitor the project, which will emphasize ingredients over arrangements. ("I tell my chef he'll be cooking without safety nets.") An interior of wood floors and bare tables will reflect Westend's informality.
Adriaan Radder, the hotel's general manager, says licensing, financing and design issues delayed the launch of a replacement for The Grill at the Ritz-Carlton by more than a year. But with Marino now living in Washington -- and an empty shell soon to be outfitted with banquettes, a centerpiece oval bar and a color scheme of red, rust and gold -- the wish appears to be giving way to reality.
-- Tom Sietsema
My Son will be manager of the resturant! I'm so excited he has been working around the clock to make this happen. Check out Eric Ripert comes from France and so on.. haflinger
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