Chef R.J. Cooper to Open Rogue 24

DCist has learned that Chef R.J. Cooper will helm his own restaurant, Rogue 24. The restaurant, to be located on Blagden Alley near M and N Streets NW, is projected to open sometime in the winter of 2011. The James Beard Award winner will be exclusively offering 24-course tasting menus that will be paired with eight different beverages. The fixed menu price is $130 -- diners will have to pay $140 for with non-alcoholic beverage pairings and $170 for alcoholic beverage pairings. This model appears to be based on some of Cooper's experiments during his tenure at Vidalia.

Cooper states, "It is my vision that Rogue 24 will provide an emotional experience. That is what creates memorable meals -- more than the food, the wine, and the service, the overall culture of the restaurant must evoke emotions in its guests."

We've seen menus near this price range at local restaurants, such as CityZen ($110) and Komi ($125), but this is the most expensive without beverage pairings to come on to the scene. Do you think D.C. diners are prepared to pay $130 for a tasting menu without booze?