Piola

I have a favorite new happy hour spot - Piola in Rosslyn. Good thing it isn't a little closer to home or I probably would be there every other day. From 4 to 7pm they offer half-price house wine by the glass, and fabulous complimentary snacks. The house red is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc - may sound like a bit of an odd mix but it really works. The wine is well-balanced and fruity and perfect for a house wine. The white is a mix of Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio and is refreshing and slightly crisp. The space is open with very high ceilings and somewhat industrial decor. It manages to feel really comfortable though. The front of the space is all glass, so you are able to enjoy a bit of people watching as well. During happy hour there is a three-tier display featuring chunks of Brie, balls of Gorgonzola and sliced Parmesan. Yum. The staff brings out trays of others snacks periodically, including grilled bread with tomato sauce, ham, Gorgonzola and Mozzerella, and various varieties of pasta salad and bruschetta. Again, snacks are all free. It's pretty nice really as you can have little bites along with your libations all for little money in a relaxed setting. Not a bad way to wind down after work eh? This past Wednesday my wine club enjoyed happy hour and then decided to stay afterwards for dinner. Most folks got one of the many varieties of pizza. I shared a mixed green salad and Carbonara pizza. The pizza crust is great thanks to the wood-fired oven, and the Carbonara was nice and actually not overly rich given that the toppings include bacon, eggs and a couple of cheeses. Most folks seemed to be really happy with the food and the evening in general.

Piola

1550 Wilson Boulevard in Arlington, VA (near Rosslyn metro)

http://www.piola.it/index_en.php