Personal Review - 04 January 20001
XandO is an interesting little coffee bar right around the
corner from the new Ruby Tuesday at 31st and Charles which also provides
grilled sandwiches, appetizers, salads, desserts, etc. Many people
seem confused by the name which has the 'x' and 'o' bold faced.
It has a double meaning. The primary meaning stands for the 'x'
and 'o' generations, but we were also told the x, n and d are the
initials of the owners.
XandO is a long, narrow cafe with counter space for sitting (the smoking area) and ordering. Adjacent is a so-called non-smoking area with couches and small tables for casual relaxing and conversation. There is also a downstairs area (which we didn't see but was told is also non-smoking). Although we enjoyed sitting and talking while having coffee/teas and some light faire, there was definitely the intrusion of smoke in the non-smoking area. It was so noticeable in my clothes after leaving and returning to my office I had to take off my coat and sweater to avoid getting sick. Horrible stench. Perhaps downstairs is better. We certainly won't sit upstairs again.
The food I ordered was the Grilled Chicken with Smoked Mozzarella which also contained tomato, pesto and spices + chips. It didn't seem like much at first impression, but it was very tasty and reasonably filling. Prices are very reasonable ranging from $4-6 for sandwiches. Teas and coffees were in the range of $1.50 - $3.00. Aside from the smoke, a very pleasant respit with friends.