Vienna's Maplewood Grill brings French-American fare to music lovers, by Joana Suleiman, Special to the Washington Examiner, May 12, 2010. If you crave an evening of excellent food, delicious cocktails and live piano music, head over to Maplewood Grill in Vienna. Formerly known as French restaurant Le Canard, Maplewood Grill now offers classic and creative American fare at low prices... Read on
MAPLEWOOD GRILL - Le Canard went out with a bang on New Year’s Eve, and two months later, transformed into a contemporary cuisine and jazz venue with regular patrons. What started out as a venue for a couple of pianists to play for an appreciative restaurant audience has turned into a jamming-jazz joint. Other musicians come out to play with the pianist and local folks, from Vienna, grab the microphone and belt out Sinatra and Sinatra-style tunes. Owners Marcel Kuchler and his son and head chef, Paul, saved a few of Le Canard’s most popular dishes, such as Wiener schnitzel and classic onion soup, and added some new Gunther favorites, from pulled pork sandwiches to grilled steaks. Some nights after Wolf Trap concerts, Maplewood Grill fills up with theater-goers grabbing a snack and an opportunity to listen to a live pianist. On a recent night, after the Tony Bennett concert, Maplewood was packed with jazz lovers. The restaurant also has a small dance floor. To learn more, call 703-281-0070 or visit www.maplewoodgrill.com. ~ Reprinted from Vienna Connection, July 22-28, 2009.
A Vienna institution looks to reinvent itself this winter with the unveiling of the Maplewood Grill, a reimaging of the venerable Le Canard.
"We decided that it was time for a facelift," executive chef/co-owner Paul Kuchler stated. In deference to their regulars, Kuchler said certain Le Canard standards will remain, including: French onion soup, wiener schnitzel and the Bailey's bread pudding. Kuchler said he'll also do duck breasts on a semi-regular basis, though the preparations will likely change. updates include: a New England-style lobster roll, gourmet burgers and a variety of steak, chicken and seafood specials. So, why not keep the orignal name? "We wanted a name that wouldn't scare people away . . . like a French restaurant would right now," he suggested. Open for lunch and dinner. ~ Reprinted from the March, 2009 issue of Northern Virginia Magazine.
My roommate raves about this place, so we went out last night to check it out! had a few appetizers (scallops with mushrooms and baked brie); everything was excellent- although not traditional french cuisine anymore, there are still some parts that remain very french-- the sauces are lighter and less creamy than traditional american or italian and some of the food is saltier (although not too salty).
It was hard to decide what to eat--everything looked great. i had the lobster ravoili with crab and asparagus- delicious! very different than i had expected it to be like. it was in a very light tomato sauce with roasted cherry tomatoes, peppers, and asparagus with large chunks of crab and lobster. excellent without being too "seafood-y." my roommate got the mahi special served spanish style. she thought it was excellent as well.
As mentioned before, they do have some great beers in bottles and on tap. they had several interesting cocktails, as well.
The waitstaff were very nice and not overbearing. the chef came out to see how we were enjoying ourselves.
Will defintiely be back! ~ Rachel P, Richmond, VA
The New Maplewood Grill is Fanatstic.. Upscale American menu and decor..
Food is Outstanding at a reasonable ~ More...
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