The Early Word on Rural Society

Rural Society is Jose Garces' first foray into the D.C. market. And it's a Latin steakhouse. Will the Philadelphia chef's debut be well-received in a city that both embraces and can be skeptical of steakhouses? Here's what the first bloggers, Yelpers and others are saying about the place.

The 10 Star Rave: On Facebook, Erin writes, "I wish I could give 10 stars! From the moment we walked in the door we were welcomed and treated with probably the best service I have ever had. We ordered the chef's taster menu and we treated with amazing food that never seemed to end. The drinks we delicious and I want the pastry chef to be my new best friend! The manager and chefs all came to our table to ensure that we were enjoying the food and getting great service. I can't say enough good things about Rural Society." [FB]

The Lots of Love News: Also on Facebook, Diane writes, "It's clear that Jose Garces and his team have put love into every bite you get there. The tapas style sides along with the large proteins to share create an intimacy at your table. I loved the skirt steak- the server presented it rolled-up on the plate, unrolled it for us, and cut it into perfect, medium rare slices...The chimichurri is the best I have ever had- I have no idea what they're doing differently, but it was a great accompaniment throughout the meal....The portions were extremely generous for the price- I left super full and happy." [FB]

The Expensive News: Rural Society is currently earning 3.5 stars on Yelp with 10 reviews in. One is from Robert H., who had service issues. "The manager was apologetic about the service and recognized it. Im not even sure if he offered to do anything for us. At that point, we just wanted to get the out of there. But nothing you can do, it doesnt make $600+ later worth it for four people." [Yelp]

The Frequent Diner Rave: Also on Yelp, Ellen P. says, "I had the Noqui pasta which was Argentinian Gnocchi with cheese,  Swiss chard and mushrooms and it was rich, creamy and delicious. We eat out all the time and I would consider this experience one of our best. A definite must try!" [Yelp]

The Knowing What They're Doing News: On Yelp, Dan D. writes, "Rural Society is new but you can see there are veterans at the helm and any minor adjustments they'll make will be fun to follow.  I look forward to coming back with a group." [Yelp]

The Industry Shout-Out: The Bistro Bis staff congratulated the restaurant on Twitter, saying, "The Bis Staff went & checked out @RuralSocietyDC & it's a Winner. Service & Cuisine both phenomenal. -Sean." [Twitter]

The Twitter Rave: User @L_To writes, "The fillet was outstanding along with charred asparagus and mushrooms. Service excellent. Will be back."

The UrbanDaddy Advice: UrbanDaddy narrates, "You'll come in with a few carnivores and admire how it feels like a South American ranch: dark wood walls, vintage black-and-white photos of cows and a steer's head sculpture in the dining room that looks like a matador's worst nightmare. Then you'll sit down and start eating things that have emerged from the custom-built, hickory-and-oak-fueled grill. For example: Uruguayan tenderloins, dry-aged New York strip steaks, heritage chickens from Japan and gooey fugazza (Argentine pizzas)." [UD]

The Hot Firepit News: Cloture Club says, "The only drawback I see is seating next to the fire pits- too hot for summer! I will most certainly sweat in my business suit to get there, a 15 minute walk from my office, but I will be hitting up frequent happy hours on the Rural Society covered patio or at the bartop on humid days, not melting next to the fire embers." [CC]

The Lots of Competition News: On Yelp, Gian P. writes, "Wine list overall was good with some interesting selections and fairly priced and as mentioned, service overall was very good and considerate. Considering the pedigree of the chef however, it was a disappointing experience overall. We have better overall restaurants, better steakhouses and even a better South American steakhouse nearby. For the $150+ per person we spent, DC has a large number of better choices." [Yelp]
· All Previous Rural Society Coverage [-EDC-]