I came in a few weeks ago with a few girlfriends to relax and catch up on old times. Our server (who seemed to be the only male server) was very knowledgeable and attentive. We were sat at an upstairs booth away from a noisy downtstairs area, which was fine for catching up with the girls. We ordered several appetizers to share amongst us and the server recommended wine flights that suited everyone's palates. While the food and wine were quite enjoyable, we soon realized that the server area upstairs was used for loud gossiping and what looked like drinking by some of the staff members. We could smell cigarette smoke pouring from what appeared to be the attic or maybe upstairs break area. Needless to say as nonsmokers this was quite untolerable as were the staff members hiding behind the serving area obviously becoming more intoxicated, as their swearing became louder. I'm not sure what the ABC laws in VA are as I'm from out of town, but I don't think a drunken staff is something that should be on display at such a pricey venue. It was later in the evening and as a former server myself I understand the pressures of the job, however my girlfriends and I were appalled by this and don't understand how the manager, which I'm guessing was one of the ""servers"" (not sure how that works) on duty would allow such behavior. I'm not one to complain,(this is actually the first time) I just think that this ruined our experience, ande I felt for our blondish male server, as he seemed embarassed by the situation as well. I will not be returning when in town again, and I believe that my girlfriends will not recommend this place to our other friends. Food was good, our server was great, but the atmosphere was ruined by the staff's lack of professionalism and obvious intoxication.
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