Jaleo

My friend's and my family went there for dinner after reading good reviews on the internet. I was driving and I dropped them off at the restaurant and went look for a parking lot. Finding a parking lot there wasn't easy and took me almost 15 minutes. I expected them to order drinks and some appetizer by the time I got there. However, when I went back, my friend and my families were not seated and stand waiting for the table even though our table was available because the waiter said until everyone is accounted for, they will not be seat us. My wife pleaded number of times to the waiter that because of the little children, it was difficult to stand and wait. The waiter continued to say that it is the rule of the restaurant to not to seat guests until everyone is there to maximize number of customers served. The waiter was arrogant and not respectful. Our two children were waiting like poor puppies in an area where dozens of people were coming in and out every minute. My wife was very infuriated and she wanted to leave the restaurant just as I got there. In order to reconcile this matter, I spoke again to the waiter. I hoped that he would give at least a slight hint of apology so we can bring it to a closure. However, he continued to defend this incomprehensible rule. We lost our appetites and left the restaurant to have dinner at a restaurant across the street. One of the reasons why we went there was because the reviews said this place had welcoming atmosphere for families with children. Well, I was dead wrong. If you reserved a table for six, make sure that all six people are there. I do not recommend this place for family with children. Single people may enjoy this place but not those with children.

There are 3 Jaleos in the DC area- [the original DC location- the best IMO, Bethesda & the newest in Crystal City, VA -- of which btw, Chef Andres recently went up against Bobby Flay on Iron Chef and WON!] nothing compares to the being in Spain, but Jaleo comes very close. My favorite tapas is the endives w/ oranges, almonds & chevre - my mouth's watering as I even write these words. The rest of my top five are 2) the chicken w/ green sauce; 3) patatas bravas [of course]; 4) lamb w/ rosemary & aioli; and 5) the tortilla [omelet] classic! yummy! the only drawback regarding the Sevillana dancers that perform Wednesday & Monday evenings while patrons eat is that they use piped in music - no live guitarist in DC or Bethesda- gotta have some duende! I'll have to see what's going on at Crystal City tho [Sundays there for the dancers]... bottom line? excellent food! Great service! Fun atmosphere! Jaleo rules!