Norfolk Restaurants, Hotels, Nightclubs, Caterers & Banquet Halls

When Tom and Rog fantasized about what this place would be like. They knew they wanted it to be casual. Yet they also wanted elegance. The kind of place that you could go dressed to the nines for a night at the Opera or just hang out at in a pair of jeans. The kind of place you could drink or savor the most complex cabernet. Oh, and the music had to be cool and the food had to be totally and completely fabulous. WAS THAT TOO MUCH TOO ASK? Not at all. Not for these guys, anyway

And so, it seems, the dream is real. They've pulled it off. And what's more: You like us! You really like us! In less than 5 years The 219 has become a presence on the restaurant scene in Hampton Roads.

Winning Golden Fork and Crystal Stem Awards each year they've been open is no small accomplishment. These days Chef Marilyn is solo in heading up a totally fabulous kitchen staff. So, swing by and check it out. Don't forget to ask if the crabcake is on special, because it could quite possibly be the best you've ever had. Yeah, yeah, we know everyone says that, but you'll just have to taste for yourself.

The friendly wait staff, dressed in black, glides in and out silently and offers attentive and knowledgeable service.

The only jarring note was a schizophrenic sound track of world music that thankfully quieted down as the evening progressed. Co-owner and chef Chad Martin, a familiar Peninsula personality at restaurants such as 99 Main and the former Aria Fifty One and, took over the kitchen here more than three years ago.

His intoxicating menu mixes exotic items such as venison and foie gras with traditional favorites. Prices are high, but portions are generous. A basic martini made with Bombay Sapphire gin came with a hefty $12 price, but the drink was larger than you'll get in most restaurants. There's an extensive wine list and several wines by the glass, though the restaurant should offer half bottles as well. From a compact but enticing list of starters, we chose one appetizer and one salad. Louisiana oysters ($7) were beautifully fried and served with a spicy tomato sauce. The oysters were sitting on a bed of shaved celery and slices of tart apple, which complemented the dish nicely.