Metro - Roanoke, VA Review

Metro is Chicago in Roanoke for me;  when I walk in, I feel like I'm back in the city.  The decor is mod, and the feel is trendy cosmopolitan, while its food is delectable, and it's wait staff efficient and personable (i.e., I ask for either Ben or "Petite Sarah").  Lets not forget about the big projection screen that always has old classic movies playing, or the upstairs "people watching" secondary bar.  You can also watch the cooks prepare all your food (if you're sitting in the right spot) while sipping on one of the seemingly 100 different martinis.

MENU:  All of the basics are present on the menu, as well as sushi/sashimi, lamb, duck, and other (don't laugh) more exotic foods for the average Roanoker.  The sushi/sashimi samplers are huge, and well worth it, but they don't compare to the gargantuan prime rib - it literally falls off your plate!  On the lighter side, the salmon is great and so is the crab cappuccino.  Metro offers a 5 and 7 course dinner (price fixe), and you can pair wines to the courses as well.  Though we haven't tried the 7, the 5 has been fantastic every time (about 10x, and expect to spend $100/person).  Typically you pick your main entree, and the chef chooses the rest, inclusive of a chef's palate cleanser to start, and a dessert sampler at the end.

POTABLES:   Although martinis abound, you can find a nice selection of most liquors, inclusive of (isn't this standard now?) Grey Goose and Hendrick's.  They need to get Pravda, and it probably won't be long before they do.  Bottom line is, there's something here for everyone, from rail brands to gold medal winners.  Personally, I go for a Belvedere martini or Hendrick's and tonic.  As far as wine goes, there's a nice wine cellar that's right in the front of the restaurant, and even the most discerning Napa aficionado is quickly pleased by what's available.

OVERALL:  cool atmosphere, not for everyone.  Make a reservation, ask for Ben or Sarah to be your server, and remember that the 5 course meal with wine pairings is the way to go!  That said, don't eat much all day, and be prepared... you might need a taxi to get home!