A quick check on the Internets revealed an enticing 25$ after 22hr special that brought us to the door. The idea of a fixed priced menu at a late night hour along with being in close proximity to a college, where a money pinched student can take a date, sounds effective. All the while having a clean cut and somewhat intimate setting, it certainly can be.
As we seat ourselves, the expected rush of college-aged patrons appears, standing out in black pea coats with white shell top sneakers and the like. Table service is typical of any French bistro; we sampled a mid-ranged Syrah blend that suited us. There was a crab cake that was much different than any variant found around the Chesapeake, a patty consisting of pulverized crabmeat and bits of vegetables, decent but incomparable and thus forgetful. The escargot and tube pasta ragoût, that came lukewarm, had a mild combination of snail and portabella flavor. A dish that still feels light even with a butter-basil sauce.
I noticed that there is a porch outside, for those reading during warmer months. Hanger steak is noticeably tougher than the more darling cuts from the loin; however, the temperature was spot on for what was asked. Flanked by perfect fries and topped with garlic butter, the steak was properly lubed, nearly as supple as those fancy cuts. A leg of duck, with skin so crispy, was tender and robust.
For dessert, a simple crème brûlée was shared; cracking through the sugar crust like applauds for the simple yet well cooked entrees. You won't lose any brownie points here, that's for sure.