La Ferme
It’s not sleek or trendy, but La Ferme totally nails warm and charming. Originally built in 1920 as a private school for girls, the Chevy Chase property was reincarnated as the Brook Farm restaurant in the ’30s, then as the Brook Farm Inn of Magic in the early ’80s, before French chef Alain Roussel bought it in 1985. The décor was in a constant state of evolution, but in 1998, Arlington, Va.-based decorator Tito Piccolo overhauled the interior with colors, fabrics and knickknacks inspired by Provence. With Piccolo’s guidance, Roussel refreshed the look again last winter, plunking down $150,000 for new paint, paneling, carpet, lampshades, window dressings, upholstery and wall hangings. With its comfortably elegant setting, La Ferme remains a go-to spot for quiet lunches, romantic dinners and private celebrations.
7101 Brookville Road, Chevy Chase, 301-986-5255, www.lafermerestaurant.com
