Rue Dumaine slipping? [Centerville (Dayton) Ohio]

[Longing for Italy]

I've been a frequent diner at the Rue from its opening; but the most recent meal was a bad experience all around--service and food. In fairness, the problems were acknowledged a one meal was comped. Nonetheless, something was "off" with everything except dessert. If that had been my first experience there, I would never return (it's been 4 months, and I haven't returned yet).

In the past year, I'd noticed what I thought was a decline--a couple of other semi-regulars have had similar views.

Just wondering if other CH's experiences have been different? Mine just a quirk, or a trend?

[Niki in Dayton]

We were there in Dec, for a birthday dinner, and it was great. However, we are far from regulars, only visiting a couple of times a year.

[Niki in Dayton]

Some news about Rue Domaine in Mark Fisher's blog from the Dayton Daily News. They will be moving to the new Austin Landing in 2013, and opening a sister restaurant, Alligator Annie's, which will serve lunch and dinner 7 days a week and be a more casual eatery. Personally, that probably means we'll get there even less, as Austin Landing is farther away, but it will allow them to capitalize on a location closer to Cincinnati.

[Longing for Italy]

The announcement helps explain why Anne hasn't been in the kitchen very much lately--nor that visible in the house. Seems like she's been busy planning the move and expansion. I agree on the apparent motive to move to Dayton's newest hot spot--and to be closer to Cincy. Opening another restaurant and expanding the hours of the original will be a management challenge; the Rue's food has always surpassed the service, so Tom will have his work cut out for him.

For us as well, the extra distance will certainly mean fewer visits. But, I wish them well.