Simply Elegant.

My editor got wind of a Tapas place down in the South End.  The reviews said the place is extremely popular and advised that the bar opens at 4:30 and seating begins at 5:30.  We showed up at 5:00 and the place was packed already, people out on the sidewalk.  The hostess told us there would probably be an hour-and-a-half wait to be seated.  No thanks.  Fortunately, a fave of ours serving "dim-sum - and then some" is a few blocks away.  We were seated immediately, welcomed by all the waiters who recognize us and we had a great meal.  Somewhere between the two restaurants I came across this beautifully restored brownstone and its lovely front door.