A few weeks ago I was invited along with a few others to a dinner at Blackwall Hitch, the new seafood restaurant in Old Town Alexandria. Executive Chef Michael Wagner treated us to his Chesapeake inspired menu and I knew I was in for a treat especially when I saw my initials, BH, emblazoned throughout the restaurant. Sure the initials may stand for the name of the restaurant but I like to think it they were mine put up as a dedication to me.
Not being a foodie but I like to eat, I was more concerned about what to wear. Dining here is very casual but business attire is definitely appropriate especially if dining right after work. Being the Fashion Fool that I am, I was dressed in a suit. Since its summer, I chose a light gray suit from Theory. I like Theory suits because they can be purchased as separates and are excellent work suits. I paired with a striped shirt from Camiscissima and a red polka tie from Bull + Moose. You can generally find Carmiscissima shirts 3 for $99. I bought mine in Venice but they are also available in the U.S. Bull + Moose offers great ties and got their start here in the Washington metro area. Shoes are by J. Fitzpatrick. Check out his story on his website and follow his blog at the Shoe Snob blog. You’ll become addicted to some great looking shoes.
Even before I tasted the food, the restaurant quickly won me over with its watermelon martini. Cool and refreshing, it was a nice introduction to the establishment and as a hint of a warning, this cocktail goes down pretty quickly. Next came the dinner, the five course meal was a nice representation of what Blackwall Hitch has to offer and definitely a threat to my waistline. We started with an Antipasto Chopped Salad which was a little different for me for a seafood restaurant but I enjoyed it.
Next up were Crispy Soft Shell Crabs. Believe it or not, I’ve been in the Washington area most of my life and have never had soft shell crabs so this was a new experience for me and my friends loved them. However for me, they were overshadowed by the Diver Scallops with a Mushroom Risotto. This was by far my favorite dish. At this point, I was nearly full but happily unbuttoned my gray Theory suit to make room for the Braised Beef Short Rib and since I had come this far ate the Apple Dumpling as well. I was full and happy.
Blackwall Hitch has done an amazing job of transforming an old food court into a spacious dining experience combining open space in a compartmentalized fashion. This design offers more intimate seating and areas can be cordoned off for private functions as opposed to looking like a giant mess hall. The space is quite large. In addition, it has wonderful outdoor seating and is right alongside the water.
Details
Gray Rodolf CF jacket and matching Marlo trousers – Theory, Red striped dress shirt – Camicissima, Red polka dot bow tie – Bull + Moose, Black capped-toe oxfords – J. Fitzpatrick
