When DCist checked out Tallula in January, we were expecting the spot to be popular. The combination of cool decor, American comfort food, and a creative “Amuse Yourself” menu seemed a welcome addition to Clarendon. However, the steep incline in the level of the restaurant’s popularity has surprised us; diners have reported possible long waits and a noted decline in service. And after Tom Sietsema’s two-star review this Sunday, it comes as no surprise that mentions of the newcomer were all over the discussion on yesterday’s Ask Tom chat.

Chatters yesterday ran a litany of complaints about Tallula (and many other restaurants) by Sietsema. Some found the portions at Tallula far too small; others complained about lackluster service and, predictably, the lengthy waits. General Manager Dave Pressley was quick to explain the lengthy waits to be seated in the Clarendon/Lyon Park restaurant. According to Pressley, much of the seating crush at Tallula comes from “lingerers”:

those tables that finish their meals in an appropriate amount of time without being rushed, have paid their bills, and then proceed to remain at the table for another 20 minutes to an hour longer. These patrons are no longer eating or drinking, but are simply conversing with each other (which they are more than welcome to continue doing in one of our two adjoining lounge areas).

DCist certainly sees the potential problem here, especially in a smaller-sized restaurant that doesn’t accept reservations for smaller parties.