FOOD: Restaurant Review of Present Restaurant

BY Ra Chan

Special to the Falls Church Times

April 29, 2011

Present Restaurant opened up a few years ago but I had not made the extra effort to go there until recently.  I’ve known a lot of people who have dined there, and the reviews for the restaurant have been relatively positive.  You also have to realize that I did have some pretty high expectations as I’ve been spoiled by having mother-in-law cook amazing Vietnamese cuisine at home, so I wanted to see how it compared to home cooking. The restaurant itself was not what you expect from the outside. It’s located right off Route 50 in a strip mall type location. You walk in and the decor is a combination of modern and traditional. I loved the wood work on the wall and the orchids everywhere. What I found really amusing were the names of all the entrees; I’ve never seen such naming conventions like “Fish Swimming in Spring Water” or “Blue Paradise Summer Roll” but found it very original when you compare it to the countless other Vietnamese restaurants in the area.

With expectations in check, and an appetite waiting, I ordered 2 appetizers and 2 fish entrees. When the waiter described their daily specials, he mentioned a fried rock fish that had me salivating. As for the appetizers, I ordered banh beo (steamed rice cake with dried shrimp) and cha gio (a crispy spring roll with a pork and shrimp mixture). The waiter talked me out of getting the normal cha gio and recommended their special cha gio wrapped in rice thread paper.

The presentation of the spring roll was really cool and it was recommended by the waiter to roll up the spring roll in a lettuce leaf and add a mint leaf. I love cha gio and the crispiness of it with the delicious pork and shrimp mixture on the inside. I think the version I ordered with the rice thread paper had a little too much going on; the rice paper was a little too intricate and I felt that it was taking away from the flavor of the meat mixture. Wrapping it in the lettuce with the mint leaf and dipping in the nuc mam sauce did give it some flavor, but I regretted not ordering the normal cha gio.

Next up were the banh beo. Again, I was very impressed with the presentation. It looked like the perfect appetizer to share with each rice cake in their individual shallow dish. I think however, I made the mistake of trying to compare this to the version my mother-in-law makes. It was good, but not what I was used to and it was a little difficult to eat since the rice cake was clinging to the bowl it was served in. The crispy pork fat and dried shrimp on top were both lacking in flavor. I prefer my dipping sauce to be a little bit on the spicy side, so I felt that the dish in its complete package was a little too bland.

For one of the entrees, I ordered the Fish in Shallow Water – the caramelized fish dish served in a clay pot. When it came out, the waiter warned me to not over do it with the sauce since it was salty. I love salt, so I didn’t heed his warning and scooped a lot of sauce and slathered my rice with it. And oh boy, it was salty. The fish itself was cooked very well, but the caramelized flavor was a little over powered by the saltiness of the sauce. This one I blame on myself for not heeding the waiter’s warning about the sodium overload.

The next entrée was the fried rock fish fillet with the ginger sauce dipping sauce. That entree was enough for 2 people; it was a huge fillet, fried to perfection! The chef had filleted it from tail to head and all that was left was a huge piece of delicious fish! The sauce that accompanied the dish was good as well – a a light soy sauce with ginger, onions and shallots. I think this entree was my favorite, how can you go wrong with a classic – fried fish and rice!

Overall consensus, the food was good, but I think my tastes are a little biased. The rock fish was really good and I enjoyed every bite of it. I think though that I should have perhaps tried a few different items. But all in all, I did enjoy my dinner and the prices were super reasonable. I had heard the desserts there were really good, but since I had a pretty big dinner, there wasn’t much room left for dessert. Oh well, there’s always next time!

Ra Chan grew up in Richmond, Va and moved up to Northern Virginia in 2006.  While enjoying the mecca of amazing cuisine, Ra has taken on the challenge of conquering the kitchen to learn how to cook especially taking on some intricate Cambodian and Vietnamese dishes. Ra started blogging and can be found at: http://eatingchronicles.blogspot.com/ .

Fairfax Focusing on City’s Proposed Water Rate Increase

By GEORGE BROMLEY
Falls Church Times Staff

April 28, 2011

Last Monday the Falls Church City Council deferred final approval of a water rate increase until June 27.  The following day the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors authorized the Fairfax Consumer Protection Commission to undertake a comprehensive review of the City’s water rate making practices.  The measure was introduced by Supervisor Linda Smyth (Providence).  The Board’s action was preceded by two letters from Fairfax Water’s outside counsel Stuart Raphael to City Attorney John Foster, which suggested that higher rates would violate a judicial order and the City Charter.

“Needless to say, all of us who have residents who use Falls Church water are very much concerned,” said Ms. Smyth.  “We would like to get our consumer product protection folks starting to look at this to see  if it conforms to our principles of sound water rate making.”  She added that the Commission also would review the City’s water rate making study, which was prepared by an outside consultant.

Specifically, Supervisor Smyth asked the Commission to determine the basis for Falls Church’s rates, whether the City was in compliance with the rate making principles established by the Board in May 2010, the nature, location, and cost of any capital improvements made over the past five years and how those improvements were funded, and the location and cost of projected improvements.  She asked that the Commission report back to the Board by September 27.

Ms. Smyth’s motion was seconded by Supervisors Gerry Hyland (Mout Vernon) and Penny Gross (Mason), and then approved by voice vote.

Mr. Raphael’s letter of April 15 noted that the proposed rates include a 7.8% return on equity and questioned why this would not violate Judge R. Terrence Ney’s January 2010 decree and Section 13.09 of the Charter.  Mr. Foster responded that the return on equity would remain in the water fund.  However, Mr. Raphael rejected this view on April 23, maintaining that such a return could not be built into the rates and concluding that Fairfax Water was expecting to see a reduction in the City’s charges, rather than a sharp increase.

The City Council gave preliminary approval for the higher rates on March 28, calling for gradual increases over the next three years: $3.27 per 1,000 gallons in FY12, to $3.53 in FY 13, and to $3.82 in FY14.  The current rate is $3.03, which has been in effect since 2005.  Approximately 92% of the system’s customers reside in Fairfax County.  

According to City Manager Wyatt Shields, the City’s Public Service Commission met on March 23 and recommended the Council authorize the increase.  If approved at second reading, the new rate structure would take effect on July 1. 

Video of Supervisor Smyth’s complete statement is available for viewing on the County’s website (click on the meeting link and go to 3:02:35).  Fairfax Water’s letters to the City and Mr. Foster’s response are posted on the utility’s website.

Saturday, April 30: Pluckerland Band Concert at ArtSpace

 

The Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation is hosting “Prelude to the Blues Part II,” the second in a series of concerts before the Tinner Hill Blues Festival is held in June.

“Blues at the Honky Tonk” with the Pluckerland Band will be held on Saturday, April 30 from 7 to 11 pm at ArtSpace Falls Church, 410 S. Maple Avenue.  Featuring Paul Cleague, concertgoers are invited to take a step back to an earlier time, come to listen or “shake it loose” on the dance floor.

Tickets are $25 in advance and can be purchased online at www.creativecauldron.org.  Free parking for ArtSpace Falls Church is available in the garages at 410 and 400 S. Maple Avenue.

Crime Report for April 19 – 25

By FALLS CHURCH POLICE DEPARTMENT

April 27, 2011 

Smoking in a Non-Designated Area, 6795 #1E Wilson Blvd (Metro Cafe).  On Apr. 19, 11:25 p.m., officers observed a 38 year old Annandale man smoking tobacco products in the Eden Center.  He was arrested for Smoking in a Non-Designated Area. 

Trespassing and Public Drunkenness, 6757 #17 Wilson Blvd. (Hoa Vien Quan Restaurant).  On Apr. 20, 10:09 p.m., an officer observed an intoxicated man of no fixed address known to be banned from the Eden Center.  He was arrested for Trespassing and Public Drunkenness.

Public Drunkenness, 917 W. Broad St. (El Zunzal).  On Apr. 20, 10:27 p.m., officers responded to the restaurant for a fight in progress.  Officers observed an intoxicated man upon arrival.  A 29 year old Falls Church man was arrested for Public Drunkenness.

Shoplifting, 1150 W. Broad St (CVS Pharmacy).  On Apr. 21, 5:49 p.m., officers responded to the area for a report of shoplifting which had just occurred.  The unknown suspect left the store with $377 worth of unpaid merchandise.

Driving Under the Influence, 100 block E. Broad St.  On Apr. 22, 12:05 a.m., a 42 year old Falls Church man was arrested for Driving Under the Influence.

Driving Under the Influence, Narcotics Violation, and Public Drunkenness, 500 block N. Washington St.  On Apr. 22, 1:50 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop for a motor vehicle violation.  The driver, a 36 year old Springfield man was arrested for Driving Under the Influence and Possession of Marijuana.  The passenger, a 39 year old McLean man, was arrested for Possession of Marijuana and Public Drunkenness.

Destruction of Property, 100 block W. Cameron Rd.  On Apr. 23, 7:58 a.m., the victim reported his window the front side of the house was smashed by a water bottle at approximately 4:00 a.m.

Narcotics Violation, 220 N. Washington St. (State Theater).  On Apr. 23, 10:21 p.m., an officer observed suspicious activity in the parking lot.  A 43 year old Bethesda, MD man was arrested for Possession of Marijuana.

Domestic Assault, 800 block W. Broad St.  On Apr. 23, 11:06 p.m., a 21 year old Sterling woman was arrested for Assaulting a Family Member.

Driving Under the Influence, 400 block Roosevelt Blvd.  On Apr. 24, 1:46 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop for a motor vehicle violation.  A 25 year old Sterling man was arrested for Driving Under the Influence.

Destruction of Property and Attempted Auto Tampering, 421 W. Broad St. (Inns of Virginia).  On Apr. 24, 2:12 a.m., the victim business reported the suspect damaged the fence to gain entry to the lot.  While the suspect was in the parking lot he attempted to enter a vehicle.  The suspect fled after being seen by a witness.  The suspect was described as an 18 year-old male wearing a blue short sleeve t-shirt with jeans and sneakers.

Public Drunkenness, 6757 #17 Wilson Blvd. (Hoa Vien Quan Restaurant).  On Apr. 24, 9:59 p.m., officers responded to the restaurant for a report of an intoxicated man causing a nuisance.  A 35 year old Silver Spring, MD man was arrested for Public Drunkenness.  He was also arrested for being wanted in Baltimore County, MD for a Probation Violation.

Narcotics Violation, 809 W. Broad St. ( Broad Falls Apartments).  On Apr. 25, 11:25, a.m., officers responded to the area for a report of females smoking marijuana.  A 20 year old Falls Church woman and a 19 year old Fort Washington, MD woman were arrested for Possession of Marijuana.

Destruction of Property, 6757 Wilson Blvd. (Eden Center).  On Apr. 25, 11:42 p.m., an officer observed a vehicle with two flat tires.  The victim later reported to the officer that his tires were slashed sometime between 9 a.m. on Apr. 23 and 4 a.m. on Apr. 24.

Plein Air Art Festival Begins on April 30

Falls Church Arts’ 2nd Annual “Scenes in the City” Plein Air Festival is open to all artists. Beginning Saturday, April 30 artists can get their surfaces stamped and draw or paint outdoors in Falls Church City throughout the month of May.

Cash prizes and other awards will be presented by Falls Church Arts at the Plein Air Show and Sale on Saturday, May 28 from 10 am to 4 pm in front of City Hall in the Harry Wells Park.  The art show will continue inside City Hall (G-level), Monday through Friday, May 30 – June 24 from 8 am to 5 pm.

For more information about the Plein Air Festival, where to get stamped, costs and entry forms, go to www.fallschurcharts.org

Divided Council Approves FY12 Budget, RE Tax Increase

By GEORGE BROMLEY
Falls Church Times Staff

April 25, 2011

The Falls Church City Council completed its marathon FY12 budget process this evening, but the members did not cross the finish line together.

Councilwoman Johannah Barry and Councilman Ira Kaylin voted against adoption of the $65 million budget.  Earlier in the evening, Councilwoman Robin Gardner cast the sole vote against a three cent increase in the property tax rate, which was approved as $1.27 for every $100 of assessed value.  The tax rate ordinance also authorizes a personal property tax rate increase from $4.71 to $4.84.

The Council unanimously approved the FY12-16 Capital Improvements Program, which includes $5.9 million for construction at Thomas Jefferson School and $1 million for renovations at City Hall.  It also approved an increase in vehicle license fees from $25 to $33.  The Council deferred action on a water service rate increase to June 27 and on a proposed solid waste fee schedule until May 23.

Before the budget vote Mr. Kaylin moved, seconded by Ms. Barry, to reduce the amount of the School transfer by $390,000, a sum equal to the pay increase for School employees.  After their motion was defeated 5-2, both members joined again in opposing the FY12 budget.

Mr. Kaylin said that he was prepared to support bonuses for the employees but not salary increases, which he said would create stress on the FY13 budget.  He also questioned the equity of increasing School salaries while limiting City workers to one time, $1,800 bonuses.  Mr. Kaylin characterized his vote as a “symbolic gesture”, adding that a “yes” vote would constitute “no gesture at all.” 

Ms. Barry said she seconded her colleague’s comments regarding equit,y but that she also saw the issue as one of “sustainability” and that to create a significant, pensionable event (i.e., salary increases) would be irresponsible.  “We have to consider the drivers that are moving the City to a higher and higher tax rate” she said.

Prior to the vote on the budget members differed on how Falls Church had arrived at its current financial state.  Vice Mayor Dave Snyder said that the blame did not lie with the Council.  He regarded it as the result of “a perfect storm” due to the housing crash and subsequent recession, the water system litigation, and the imposition of state and federal mandates.  Mr. Kaylin disagreed, maintaining that the City was “structurally imbalanced” in 2008 and that the seeds of the problem already were present.  Ms. Barry agreed, stating that “little was unknown.”

Tax Rate Discussion  -   Members declined to approve the $1.28 rate recommended by City Manager Wyatt Shields, who had called for a rate of $1.25 during his March 14 budget presentation.  Councilman Lawrence Webb said he regretted that the $1.28 proposal had not been presented earlier and that citizens hadn’t had enough time to voice their opinions on the higher rate. 

Councilman Ron Peppe observed that he was not “A big fan of taxes, but we’ve reached a point where if you make further cuts you eviscerate the core values of the community.  We can’t just rely on hope.”

Ms. Gardner said she was willing to go to a $1.26 tax rate, but not higher as she believed the fund balance was being sufficiently rebuilt.  Mr. Snyder stated he first wanted to vote for $1.26 but decided to go higher in order to fund essential improvements to City Hall.

Mayor Nader Baroukh noted that restoration of the fund balance was critical for the financial health of the City, but stressed that ultimately economic development was essential in order to hold the line on taxes.   On this point, all members concurred.

More Traffic Lights  -  After completing the budget process the Council approved a measure that would secure funds for the installation of traffic signals at W. Broad and Pennsylvania and at Maple and S. Washington.

CITY MEETINGS: April 25 – 29

Click on [Read More] to access links.

Monday 4/22: City Council Meeting.  Council Chamber, 7:30 pm.  Agenda and documents.

Tuesday 4/23: Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Traffic Calming Committee.  Field visit, 6:30 pm.  Training Room, 7:30 pm.

School Board Work Session.  Council Chamber, 7:00 pm.

Regular School Board Meeting.  Council Chamber, 8:00 pm.

Wednesday 4/27: ESOL Advisory Committee.  800 W. Broad St., Suite 203, 6:30 pm.  

Thursday 4/28:  Joint Meeting.  Family Life Education Committee and School Health Advisory Board.  Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School, 7:30 pm.

Friday 4/29: City Council Economic Development Committee. Oak Room, 7:30 am.

Meeting notices are obtained from the City and School Board on-line calendars and from the notice board at the east entrance of City Hall. Meetings may be subject to re-scheduling or cancellation. Meetings are held in City Hall, 300 Park Avenue, unless otherwise indicated.

FOOD: Chef Interview with Willow’s Tracy O’Grady and Kate Jensen

BY Kathleen Nixon

Falls Church Times Staff

April 22, 2011

As part of the Falls Church Farmers Market Chef series this year, we will be interviewing the chefs prior to their demonstrations and sharing this with our readers. Gives you a chance to get to know the chefs before you meet them in person at the demonstrations.

This Saturday April 23^rd kicks off the third year of the Falls Church Farmers Market Chef demonstrations with a favorite – Willow Restaurant from Ballston featuring Tracy O’Grady and Kate Jensen with Maeve Curtin an apprentice at the restaurant assisting.

Tell us a little bit about you and your background: Tracy O’Gray is a native of Buffalo, New York  and Kate hails from Iowa.  We met at an Italian Restaurant many years ago and have been friends since.  Kate went on to co-found Firehook Bakeries and Tracy worked for Kinkead’s for 10 years. While working at Kinkead’s Tracy met her future husband Brian Wolken.  Tracy represented the U.S in the Bocuse d’Or which was the precursor to the present day live chef competitions.  In 2005, Tracy and Kate opened Willow on the same day as Brian and Tracey;s wedding in the restaurant.  The whole Willow team has been intensely involved with local community events ever since.

Tell us a little about your restaurant, your staff and how you incorporate local producers into your restaurant purchasing?

Our restaurant is located in Arlington.  Kate lives in Alexandria and I in Falls Church.  We love owning a neighborhood restaurant that is very close to where we live.  We try to us as many local ingredients as possible and love cooking at the local farmers markets to be part of our community and help people use local ingredients in unique ways.

You work with many of the local producers? Who do you work with?

We purchase from Polyface Farms, Westmoreland Farms, Toigo Orchards, Davoncrest Farms, Irwin Mushrooms, and Baxter Softshell Crab. We also purchase locally sourced pork and ground beef from Capital Meats, and Gonzales Farms. Our crab meat is only domestic produced crab meat and our other fish we buy is local rockfish when permitted. When looking at ingredients we try to purchase only sustainable raised seafood products.

As a customer, what changes have you seen in the local food landscape?

I’ve seen more farmers willing to work with restaurants on a wholesale level as opposed to a retail level.  I’ve also noticed customers are demanding more local produce for themselves and from their restaurants.

When did you start using local ingredients in creating your menu and recipes?

Since I began cooking.

What ingredients has been the most challenging to work with?

From a local level I would say meat because many local farmers want to sell us the whole animal, which we cannot always use.

Do you think your customers understand and appreciate your incorporation of local food into your menus?

Some do and some do not, but more people in general are having a growing appreciation for local food.

What local ingredients are not yet available to the local economy that you would like to incorporate into your menu?

Fresh chick peas, artichokes, citrus

How long have you been part of the Farmers Market Chef series?

We started cooking at farmers markets 10 years ago and have been part of the Falls Church Farmers Market Chef series from the beginning.

What do you like best about the Farmers Market Chef series? Any challenges or surprises?

When cooking in a restaurant, you rarely get a chance to interact with the customers as you are taking care of some many meals at one time. At the demonstrations,  many of our customers come to see what we are preparing and to have an opportunity to meet us.  Many of our long time customers come to the demonstrations just to share how much they like the restaurant and the special meals that they have had their.

What will you be preparing for your demonstration?

Warm young potatoes with spring peas, goat cheese, pea greens and lemon vinaigrette.

As with all Falls Church Farmers Market Demonstrations, recipes and tasting will be available from 9am to 11am. Recipes can also be found at http://www.fallschurchfarmersmarketchef.com/

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