The atmosphere at the Food Studio is very trendy and eclectic. One dines surrounded by red brick walls or at a table in the open courtyard. The silver bar and waitstaff dressed in black gives the restaurant a modern feel: a perfect match for the creative American menu. Classic American fare meets with fine dining in each dish served. I greatly enjoyed an eggplant and pine nut dish that was a delicious but light entree. The wonderful tangy tastes blended nicely with my glass of Stella Pinot Grigio. My dining companion greatly enjoyed the Ribeye steak with just the right amount of pink left in the center.

Reservations are recommended though not required at this restaurant. If you don't make them, however, be prepared for either a long wait or to have dinner at the full service bar. This is especially true on Saturday nights.

TIP: When making dinner reservations at the Food Studio, don't forget to check the schedule of plays running at Actor's Express also located in the Kings Plow Arts Center. This is a good company with an intimate space, so I greatly suggest topping a good meal off with an evening of dramatic entertainment. (www.actorsexpress.com) What could be a nicer date than dinner coupled with a play?

I am always amused by the descriptions in the menu and by the wait staff as it sounds as if they are describing art rather than my dinner. Ask for recommendations (if just to hear the descriptions) particularly from the awesome wine list. The chops and the fish are very nice. Save room for the dessert.