Vintage 50 - Leesburg

However, my husband and I gave it two chances, and ended up walking away each of those times. We used to be very happy regulars when the place was under prior ownership as a micro brewery named Thoroughbreds and were devastated when they closed down. As you may imagine, we looked forward to its renaissance as Vintage 50 with some anticipation. Too bad so sad ... what a letdown it turned out to be. The bar area is overcrowded and the service abyssmal. We sat outside one summer evening and, with the server standing at the next table talking to his FRIENDS, had to wait an inordinate amount of time to get our drink order in, despite trying to catch his eye. After 15 minutes of waiting for his return, we took off for Tuskies always a sure bet. On another occasion, hoping that the previous experience was a fluke, we returned and tried to find seating or even standing room in the overcrowded bar. Servers did not even acknowledge us with eye contact, let alone a smile, and it was impossible to grab the bartender long enough to order a couple of beers. Once more, we walked out and said Never again. for sure, this time.

The restaurant has to be the best kept secret in Northern Virginia. We dined in the restaurant area and the service was outstanding. The staff was swift but didn't hover and all were extremely friendly. My wife and I ordered the Grilled Swordfish “Nicoise” and Hickory Smoked Beef New York Strip with the Pan Roasted Canadian Foie Gras as an appetizer. It was outstanding!! I had the Angel's Share Ale and the 80 Shilling Anniversary Ale and they were both spectacular perfect temperature and body served in the proper glassware. I have been to L’Auberge Provencale near Winchester, VA and The Little Inn in Washington, VA and must admit that the food was as good at 1/5th the cost and the Ales that I had were beyond compare due to their freshness and brewing process on site. Our waiter was James and he was the best waiter I have ever been served by, bar none. There is no other place within 100 miles even close to Vintage 50 for the value.