Flee to 100 King

It's a brave soul indeed who is willing to forge through the throngs of Midwesterners that make up Old Town Alexandria's main population. They bounce ponderously up King street and down to gape at the balloon sellers of the waterfront, their army son-in-laws looming out of the humid haze. Yes, it's a veritable corn- fed amoeba, polyester-clad and sweating, waving maps and strollers and frappuchinos and canvas tote bags at the embarrassed scenery.

Which is why it's so bizarre to come across 100 King . In a sea of restaurants that offer menus in three languages and Ruby Tuesday food, 100 King is shockingly acceptable. And no surprise, they are owned by the same family that bestowed upon us the Lebanese Taverna restaurants. This is a family that knows their hummus.

Decor is Helix Lounge meets Creme: fashionable and industrial, with just enough empty space to remind of a hotel bar. But that's alright, because the food, oh the food. I'd suggest just skipping the mains and ordering your way down the appetizers/ tapas menu. The zucchini cakes are delicious and crunchy, the crab meat perfectly fishy and fresh. I shall be salivating for the polenta soufflé with blue cheese and mushroom sauce for days.

I can't, in good conscience, suggest this restaurant as a destination. But for those who find themselves in the area, flee to this sane, tasty, pretty restaurant like it was the last bastion of culture in a very touristy world.

100 King St
Alexandria, VA