So, tonight was Blacks Bar and Grill in Bethesda. They had closed some time ago for renovations, and I had not been back since. What we found inside was amazing, a very sheik, wood and glass space, very L.A. (though I haven't been) feel, and food to match! We started perusing the menu, noticing that the sections are a little different, tapas style plates (we ordered, but waitress forgot), Salads and Appetizers, "Composed" plates (protein, starch and vegetable), and an A la Carte Section which housed Meats & Seafood, along with side dishes and SAUCES, each about $4-6 for sides and sauces. Entree prices ranged from $16 up to $37 I believe, and the selection was smaller, but a rich selection. Each dish has great accompaniments, and the menu leans a bit towards seafood, although meats are well represented. Pork, Lamb, Braised Short Ribs (sans bone), a really nice selection Style of cooking is a nice mix of American classics touched by ethnic influences. My wife and my Dad had the Short Ribs, my Mom had Salmon with some sort of Lentil Cake, and I had Duck with a Cherry Demi Glace, Herb Spaetzle and Duck Confit (oh yes, very good). We had started with Tuna Carpaccio, Steamed Mussels in Aromatic Broth (my description) and my wife had the Roasted Thai Tomato Soup with Baby Shrimp. All excellent, arfully presented, and tasty! (part 2 will follow with wine, dessert, and what got me all wet!) http://digg.com/submit?phase=2&URL="