I am a DC transplant, and I was really happy to see a restaurant like Margaux's in my neighborhood when we moved. I agree that the atmosphere is really artsy and whatnot, but it only seems impressive because this is Raleigh. Larger cities are hemorrhaging artsy spots with ironwork and actual paintings (rather than prints). What is with the giant empty fish tank? Anyway, if the food lived up to the atmosphere, I would be very happy with the restaurant. I will first say that Margaux's calamari is one of the best I have ever had. Really superb. Some of the other food is nice. Margaux's claims to serve a seasonal menu. Maybe they change it seasonally, but they don't seem to have bothered looking at a calendar. A lousy cut of tuna on polenta served with veal stock and veg that have had any life they had cooked out of them is not a summer dish. Risotto is not a summer dish. Gravy does not belong on a plate when it is 105 degrees out. I have also found the presentation and even the quality of the food lacking. Duck should be tender, not chewy. Don't derve those lousy yelowfin steaks that you have to cut 3/4 inch thick to get a 7 ounce portion- certainly don't pretend they can be cooked rare...I suppose it would be a great restaurant, if I had not been to great restaurants.
Pros: Looks nice, you can spend a lot of money on wine.....
Cons: Menu doesn't work, food quality lacking.
more