The service was wonderful, and everyone was really kind and attentive without being overbearing -- with the exception of the over-used "pardon my reach" phrase. There were many times during our dinner when we were engaged in conversation, and the "pardon my reach" phrase interrupted us, especially when we likely would not have even noticed the "reach" (i.e. just placing things on the table without actually reaching in front of anyone.)
Unfortunately, the food was not remarkable. Oysters with a frozen granny apple gremolata sounded amazing in theory. But the quantity and acidity of the gremolata overpowered the flavor of the oysters and the frozen gremolata made the oysters freeze as well so the texture was unpleasant. Placing the gremolata in a center bowl would give the diner the option of how much to utilize on their own, and have prevented the oysters from freezing. Two different steaks which were both cooked perfectly but completely under seasoned and the sauce --which had a fantastic description-- was unfortunately a bit flavorless and did not live up to the description we received. The standout dish was an appetizer of farmers cheese on a rustic bread with carrots and lavender honey. Really delicious. Hummingbird cake for dessert was tasty but the presentation didn't feel quite right for the upscale image they're trying to maintain - a slice from a large cake sprinkled with edible flowers where I would have expected a dainty mini cake, or even something maybe slightly deconstructed. The slice felt like something you would get from a corner deli in Brooklyn, not a refined dining experience. Overall we had fun but, definitely did not feel on par with the prices and atmosphere they're trying to attain.
Lastly, and this is minor but worth noting as it took away from the "fine dining" experience -- staff placed chargers under our main entree plate, which cause our entree plates to slide unsteadily when trying to cut our steaks. I appreciate what they were trying to achieve, and it was easily remedied by removing the chargers, but it added to the impression that no one had actually tested the execution of this practice, and took away from the "fine...
Read moreI recently celebrated my husband's birthday at the Hunton, and it was a truly wonderful experience from start to finish. The restaurant clearly puts a great deal of thought into every detail of the dining experience, and it shows. As soon as we were seated, our server presented my husband with a birthday card, a small but incredibly thoughtful touch that set the tone for the entire evening. The service throughout the night was absolutely impeccable. Our servers were so attentive and anticipated our needs so well that we joked they must have mind-reading powers! The menu was a highlight, with inventive and delicious dishes that showcased a clear culinary vision. We especially loved the beef tartare, the ash-roasted beets, and the unique Black Alaska. The attention to detail extends beyond the food to the drinks and decor. The martini service was a fun and sophisticated touch, and the smoked old fashioned was fantastic. The decor was also perfectly cohesive with the Hunton's theme, creating an elegant and immersive atmosphere. Overall, the Hunton is an excellent choice for anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a sophisticated and elegant dining experience. It's clear that they've perfected the art of hospitality and...
Read moreFor a new restaurant, this was shockingly amazing. The staff were all very knowledgeable, giving little stories about each dish instead of just listing ingredients. The hospitality was overall very good. It is plain to see that they all really like working there and have been putting in the effort.
The food though, was incredible. The little foie tart thing stole the show for me. The tuna tartare (which in my opinion is usually a throwaway dish on a menu) was so unique and spectacular. If you get a steak, the Hunton sauce was my favorite. The duck taco was really unexpected. Overall, it was one of the tastiest meals I've had in the DMV area in the past few years.
And then dessert came out. Get the Black Alaska. It's out of this world. The other desserts were great, but the Alaska is a reason to go to the restaurant all on its own.
I think they've been open for about a month. Our meal at the Hunton was already better than most of the Michelin 1 star restaurants in DC. I can't wait to see how it evolves over the next year or two. It was easily worth the drive out there and I'm already planning to go...
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