MICHELIN Guide’s Point Of View

Polished and professional with an upscale setting made for brokering deals, Fiola is just what the politician ordered. Its central location near the Archives makes it a go-to for the power crowd, and the bar is perfect for blowing off steam after a busy day of debating. Thanks to truly sophisticated cuisine, the somewhat stiff environs and overly scripted service staff are soon forgiven. And despite its traditional demeanor, the menu actually allows for flexibility with the ability to craft your own four- and five-course meals in addition to a grand tasting menu. The chef’s cooking style is both ultra-luxurious and Italian-influenced, with a highly stylized bent to boot. Meals may begin with a single jumbo stalk of white asparagus, dressed with black truffle vinaigrette and caviar, before moving on to hay-smoked potato gnocchi, presented with flair under a glass cloche. Wild turbot with chunks of razor clams and fava beans is also shielded within a glass cloche, though this excellent dish impresses with its rich flavors alone. As for the wine list? As one would expect, it's showy, littered with big names and curated for those with sizeable expense accounts and companions to impress.