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Cuba Libre
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Look Restaurant Reaches Across The Aisle For Fun Times!
Who says K Street has to be Conventional?
LOOK Restaurant Lounge reaches across the aisle to bridge the gap between Socially Liberal and Tastefully Conservative. Located in the heart of the K Street Corridor, LOOK Restaurant Lounge sets out to shatter traditional stereotypes by taking the "boring" out of business lunch and the "corporate" out of corporate reception.
Enjoy world cuisine through a variety of over 30 small plates from our Executive Chef in a warm, dynamic, open setting. Our 150 seat dining room is open for lunch, dinner, private events, corporate gatherings, and any social events. The Event Director and Executive Chef will work with you to customize the perfect event experience for up to 300 seated guests or 800 standing guests.
Guests are strongly encouraged to be Socially Liberal, yet fiscally conservative in the belief that Washington needs to cut spending. With this thinking, HAPPY HOUR at LOOK starts at noon. From 12pm to 7pm, LOOK offers Absolut kocktails, House wine by the glass and our full beer selection at $5! Visit lookatkstreet.com for more information.
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Hong Kong’s Best at Full Kee
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Hola at Oyamal Cocina Mexicana
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Deutschland on H Street at the Biergarten Haus
Biergarten Haus is the only beer garden in the city! Come year round and enjoy a shaded courtyard in the summer and a heated outdoor winter wonderland in the winter! With thirty-five hundred square feet of outdoor seating, there are plenty of space for parties to enjoy plates of bratwurst, weisswurst, and even wiener schnitzel.
As you peruse through the various choices of German delicacies on the menu, don’t forget to gulp them down with pints of authentic German ale in heavy-bottomed glass mugs.
It’s like Oktoberfest year-round at the Biergarten Haus! Visit biergartenhaus.com for more information.
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Life is Always Sweet at Macaron Bee
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Ripple’s Debut of the Grilled Cheese Bar
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Rasika – Flavors of India
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The Hamilton
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Crepes at the Eastern Market
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Wholesome American Goodness at The Blue Duck Tavern
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Take Me Out To A Ball Game at Nellie’s Sports Bar
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Try Not to Make A Mess at Masa 14
Everyone knows Masa 14 at the corner of U street and 14th street. It is that busy and upbeat Asian-Latino fusion restaurant with an electrifying vibe that everyone is willing to line up for, even after a long day of work!
With an interesting concept of blending Asian and Spanish cuisines, the menu offers a wide array of choices – you are not in a mood for Chinese? That’s okay, they have Korean and Japanesy tapas dish for you to try over fancy drinks with fancy names.
A few tapas and mixed drinks in, the atmosphere at Masa 14 only gets better!
Shhh… There are unlimited brunch plates and drinks Saturdays and Sundays from 11am – 3pm for just $35!
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Flavorful Ethiopian at Etete
Looking for a new place to try exciting and exotic new flavors? Come to Etete where you are promised an authentic Ethiopian dining experience with a contemporary flare!
Located in Little Ethiopia, Etete is a family-owned restaurant where people from all walks of life come to try flavorful Ethiopian soul food and eating with their hands for the very first time. Trust me, they all came back for more.
Dishes are cooked in specially spiced Ethiopian butter and served with injera, the thin spongy sour bread unique to the Ethiopian cuisine. There are also great vegetarian specialty options that would make even the carnivores drool.
To complete the experience, don’t for get to try Etete’s unique variety of Ethiopian wine, beer and ambo!
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Sing Your Heart Out at Muzette
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DC Chillin’ at Ben’s Chili Bowl
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Cafe Montmartre for a Taste of Paris
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Domo Arigato, Mr. Yogato
We all know that frozen yogurt is healthy and delicious; however, at Mr. Yogato, it is also amusing and ridiculous! If you walk into the yogurt shop for the first time, you may be overwhelmed by their 18 non-fat yogurt flavors and 40 different toppings. However, don’t be confused by the goofy employees and the huge white board of the “Rules of Yogato.”
Follow the zany rules like singing along to Mr. Roboto, reciting the Braveheart battlefield speech with a Scottish accent, or even reenacting the Michael Jackson Thriller dance, to receive discounts up to 50% off!
Hey… don’t raise your eyebrows - yessssssh, I ordered in Sean Connery’s accent for 20% off.
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Hardwood Smoky Goodness at Rocklands BBQ
Stepping into Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Company you will see a huge bucket of peanuts, a whole bookshelf of hot sauce selection, and several rolls of no-nonsense paper towels - you know this is the perfect prerequisites to a hearty meal of BBQ.
With the meat, seafood, and poultry cooked by real red oak and hickory, you can smell the woody deliciousness half a mile away! Munch through the ribs, briskets, sausage, sides, and corn bread and don’t forget to take a swig from their tasty Coolant Root Beer (refill available)!
Insider info: You can have Rocklands prepare their famous barbequed pigs, displayed whole on a decorated board for your special events!
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The Next Best Thing to Being in Greece – Zorba’s Café
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Pinker, Sweeter, Better – Georgetown Cupcakes
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Billiards, Bars and Darts at Rocket Bar
Sometimes there's nothing more fun than hanging in someone's pimped out basement, playing games, and hanging with friends. But when you're in the city, basements are few and far between. That's why many young Washingtonians head to Rocket Bar. With 17 HDTV's, 7 pool tables, 6 shuffleboards, 6 darts, 2 jukeboxes, boardgames, and 3 full bars, Rocket Bar is the ultimate house party.
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Nora’s First for Organic Eating
Usually trends are set in New York or Los Angeles, but the Nora Restaurant started one of the best culinary trends as of late: organic eating. Being the first certified organic restaurant in the United States, Nora's knows how to cook with the heart and body in mind. Not only is the food good for you, it is also really good. The Nora Restaurant was voted OpenTable.com's Diners' Choice Winner this year. At Nora's, once you go organic, you can never go back.
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Hang with Politicians at Bullfeathers
Sure, fun and politicians may not seem like they go together, but at Bullfeathers they do. Serving the House of Representatives and "friends" since 1980, Bullfeathers knows how to have a laugh. After all, it's named after the phrase President Teddy Roosevelt used to deal with "frustrating situations" and to call out other people's, well, bull...feathers.
Happy hour is always hot at the 40 foot bar and enjoy one of the best burgers in town with that beer. When the weather's nice, make sure to take advantage of the patio and relax with the savvy Washingtonian crowd.
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La Chaumiere: Relaxed, French Country Dining in the Heart of Georgetown
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, and enjoy a warm, rich meal at Georgetown’s, La Chaumiere, a hallmark of unpretentious French cuisine with a country inn atmosphere. Cozy up at a table near the central stone fireplace and make yourself at home within the rustic, stucco-covered walls of this authentic French gem. With a knack for seasonal ingredients, consistently delicious French specialties and an inviting atmosphere, La Chaumiere is the perfect spot for a romantic evening out.
Start off with a delectable pate or refreshing salad niçoise for a truly French beginning, then opt for an order of the authentic Moules Mariniere, or mussels steamed in white wine. La Chaumiere also offers a variety of house specialties, including the Quenelles de Brochet (Pike dumpling in lobster sauce), or traditional cassoulets prepared with rabbit and lamb. On Tuesdays only, the chef prepares the rich Crabe en Chemise – French crepes filled with Jumbo Lump Crab, mushrooms and a champagne cream sauce. Whatever dish you choose, La Chaumiere will certainly transport you to France with one simple bite.
Insider Tip: It’s no secret that the French know how to please a sweet tooth. Don’t request your bill until you’ve ordered the chef’s special soufflé for dessert. Offered in both Grand Marnier and Chocolate flavors, this light and fluffy treat will definitely end your fabulously French evening on the right note!
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Puck Packs Modern Asian Punch at The Source
diners overlook America’s most famous address while ogling a selection of over 300 wine labels and two distinct mouth-watering menus. Opt for a relaxed meal out and grab a seat at The Source’s ground level lounge, complete with a Izakaya-inspired menu full of sushi, sashimi, noodle and traditional Japanese “Robata” grilled options. Try the Bacon Wrapped Sea Scallops with seaweed butter and braised bamboo or the signature Kobe Sliders with cheddar and smoked onion marmalade.
For a true Wolfgang Puck dining experience, head to the upstairs dining room – connected to the lounge by an impressive (think 2,000 bottles) two-story, temperature-controlled glass wine wall. Try the Pork Belly Dumplings with Chinese black vinegar dipping sauce or the Szechuan Filet “Au Poivre” with wild mushrooms and finished with a caramelized shallot sauce. One trip to The Source, and you’ll be vying for a little more Asian minimalism.
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Porterhouse Fit for a Prez at Bobby Van’s Steakhouse
elebrity favorite. Let’s just say the steaks are so good, President Obama even celebrated his first day in office with a meal at this exclusive downtown favorite.
Outfitted in rich wood paneling with appropriately masculine accents, Bobby Van’s simple design and crisp white tablecloths allow the food to steal the spotlight. Start off with a refreshing Raw Bar Selection or a decadent taste or two of the traditional Escargot, prepared with butter, lemon, pernod, garlic and fresh herbs .
Select from a variety of hearty cuts of prime beef, from which Bobby Van’s gets its claim to fame. Pair your luscious cut with a few family-style sides like the Creamed Spinach, Cottage Fries or Prosciutto Mac & Cheese. For those looking for a beef alternative, indulge in the Colorado Lamb Chops or the Sesame Crusted Tuna with wasabi mashed potatoes, pickled ginger and Miso vinaigrette. Whatever you choose, be prepared to spend –after all, there’s a reason why the President himself decided to celebrate with a Bobby Van’s meal.
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Travel to The City of Lights at Cafe Bonaparte
Breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner, Café Bonaparte is equally delicious with a wide variety of traditional French favorites mixed with a few creative twists on classics. Try a sinful savory or sweet crepe, or opt for a creative omelet to satisfy your morning cravings.
For an evening out, start off with the crispy Crepe Chips topped with apples and brie before losing yourself in rich, French specialties: Beef Bourguignon, Steak Frites and Duck Confit with Orange Demi Glace. With limited seating in a cozy, upscale bistro atmosphere, Bonaparte is the perfect spot for an intimate, yet relaxed meal – and a tiny piece of Paris hidden in our very own Capital.
Insider Tip: In true Parisian style, Café Bonaparte offers equally alluring cocktails. Take advantage of the Café’s half price cocktails every Monday. The Café Couture (Grey Goose pear, cardamom, fresh lemon juice and honey) is an exotic concoction that will have you speaking the romance language by the end of the evening.
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“SEI” Hello to a First Lady Favorite
much so that she had SEI cater a White House gathering), it's safe to say that SEI’s inventive cuisine is sure to please even the most prestigious politico’s palate. Pair a tangy Japanese Whisky Sour (egg white, fresh lemon, 5 spice-infused syrup) with a humor-infused roll or two – sushi favorites include the Fish & Chips roll (flounder, malt vinegar, French fries, wasabi tartar sauce) or the Let Us Roll (romaine, carrots, Caesar dressing). For those looking for a more substantial dish, try the Mini Kobe Sliders with tomato jam and tempura onion rings. For a sweet finish, dig into some Miso Orange Bread Pudding with soy ice cream.
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Prix Fixe Perfection at Marcel’s
favorites is perfect for those looking for a rich sauce to accompany a decadent cut of meat, Marcel’s does keep it fresh with modern dishes for those looking for a lighter take on the evening. From juicy lamb medallions wrapped in phyllo with spinach and duxelles, to Hamachi crudo with pink grapefruit and cilantro puree, Marcel’s is sure to please even the most discerning palate. The tempting prix fixe dinner menu is organized in a choice of three, four, five or seven courses (one look at the menu and you will most likely opt for seven!). Whichever you choose, with just one bite, you’ll understand why this award-winning French gem earned The Washingtonian’s “100 Best Restaurant’s of 2010” honor.
Insider Tip: Along with its several prix fixe course selections, Marcel’s also offers a Pre-Theatre three course selection before 7 PM for just over $50. Valet park your car at the restaurant and a sharp Mercedes will chauffeur you to the Kennedy Center for an elegant evening out.
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Prime Dining at BLT Steak
Power diners and wanna-be politicos are in for a treat with Chef Laurent Tourondel’s Washingtonian edition of his well-known BLT Steak – the self-proclaimed “Modern American Steakhouse” with locations in culinary hotspots such as New York, LA, Miami and Hong Kong.
Located near the District’s most celebrated residence, BLT Steak exudes Washingtonian sophistication at its finest with its nod to a traditional French bistro combined with an updated, urban American finesse. With rich hardwood accents, an intimate glow, and an all-around sleek appeal, BLT Steak is the restaurant of choice for Washington’s movers and shakers.
Like most conventional steakhouses, BLT offers a variety of prime steaks (USDA Prime, Certified Black Angus, American and Japanese Kobe Beef), paired with decadent condiments and sauces, as well as rich, tempting side dishes, served in Staub cast iron cocottes, that are intended to share. The chef’s warm, fluffy popovers are an inviting start to a filling meal at one of the best spots in town. BLT is also known for a great raw bar, as well as other main courses including lamb, chicken and fresh fish options.
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Modern Italian at Bibiana
A product of well-known restauranteur Ashok Bajaj, Bibiana is led by executive chef Nicholas Stefanelli, who brings a light, updated Italian menu full of traditional classics like decadent pastas and crisp pizzas, as well as unique main courses that modernize the Southern European cuisine.
Start off with the gorgeous Datteri, or Mejool dates stuffed with ricotta salata, salty pancetta and sprinkled with slivered almonds. For a decadent entrée, try the Anatra, or roasted Muscovy duck breast with creamy celery root puree, dried cherries and rich red wine sauce. For the adventurous diner, Stefanelli offers veal sweetbreads with rutabaga, and candied oranges, dusted with fennel pollen.
Insider Tip: For a more low-key evening, grab a seat in Bibiana’s mod lounge area and sample the small plate menu, available from 2:30-5:30 PM on most weekdays.
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Pan Asian Perfection at Zentan
oversized pillar candles. Loosen up with a punchy Spicy Thai Martini, spiked with thai chili-infused vodka, nigori unfiltered sake and St. Germain, and finished with a splash of cran for an Asian-fusion-inspired libation.
Tease your palate with a starter of Zentan’s signature Singapore Slaw – a crunchy concoction of over 19 (yes, way too many to list!) ingredients, including a to-die-for salted plum dressing. Don’t pass up the Crudo Platter – a sampling of fresh yellowtail, salmon, charred scallop, and big eye tuna, each presented with unique flavor profiles. The chef recommends savoring from left to right for a gradual, yet increased savory experience – and one that you will definitely not regret. Sushi lovers will forever crave the Fire Dragon roll after one bite – a colorful spool of spicy tuna, barbeque eel, avocado and tobiko.
Insider Tip: For the best of both worlds in the warmer months, enjoy a selection of Zentan’s small plates at the Donovan House’s rooftop lounge, ADC (“Above DC”). Breathtaking views of DC, exceptional Asian cuisine, and a swanky venue – what’s not to love?!
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Hand-Pick Your Own Catch of the Day at Kellari
water, Kellari features a gorgeous fresh fish display, showcasing fifteen varieties of seafood, ranging from the native seas of Greece, Spain and Portugal, to the more familiar waters of the Atlantic.
Forget you’re in DC for a bit and start off with a bottle of authentic Greek wine and a few generously-portioned “mezedes,” or Greek small plates intended for sharing. The crispy eggplant and zucchini Kellari Chips serve for a great beginning: coated in a decadent, golden batter, fried until crisp and served with a rich tzatziki dipping sauce.
Once you’ve had a bite to eat and settled into one of the warm, inviting booths, take a trip up to the impressive fish display. Knowledgeable servers will provide ample information on each species’ native origins, textures and flavors, and corresponding preparation methods to help you make the best decision for a memorable dining experience. Savor your hand-picked gorgeous masterpiece, grilled whole and served simply with olive oil, fresh lemon wedges and dusted with fragrant herbs – a truly unique rustic treat, and one that will take you all the way to the Mediterranean, even if just for a night.
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Small Plates Pack Big Flavor at Masa 14
ks huge flavor into a variety of tantalizing Latin and Asian-inspired small plates - delectable little morsels that will definitely leave you wanting “just one more bite.” That's good news – with reasonable prices and ideal tasting portions, you can have plenty of bites from a mouth-watering menu selection that's perfect for sharing.
While you wait for a table at the industrial, yet organically chic establishment, grab a seat at the longest bar in DC. Masa 14 boasts a 65-foot bar with extensive tequila, sake and cocktail selections. For a refreshing start to the evening, order some spicy edamame and have one of the trendy, European bartenders concoct you a “Strawberry Lemonade” to cool off – a perfectly tart blend of vodka, fresh strawberry puree and fresh lemon juice for an extra kick.
Insider Tip: Stick around for some after-hours fun, because Masa 14 features a DJ on most weekend nights. Pair that with a couple of cocktails and a seat at the central communal table, and you’ll be sure to leave with more friends than you came in with.
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Journalist Maureen Orth Seas BlackSalt is Best
One part fish market, one part restaurant, BlackSalt is your one stop gourmet shop for everything seafood. Rated one of the best restaurants in D.C. by Washingtonian Magazine, Chef Jeff Black makes each seafood item shine- from mussels to shrimp to lobster and grouper. Pairing the perfectly seasoned and cooked dishes with a crisp Chardonnay brings the experience to a whole 'nother level.
The Fish Market is based on Chef Jeff Black's desire to provide chefs-in-the-making at home with the best seafood possible. So whatever you choose is guaranteed to be delicious, but if you're unsure of what to take and how to prepare it, Fishmonger Keith Slepper's always there to lead you in the right direction.
Dine in or take out, Maureen Orth can attest to the fact that this is the place for seafood in D.C.
*** Maureen Orth is an award-winning journalist who started her career at the prestigious Newsweek Magazine and is a special correspondent for Vanity Fair and the founder of the K12 Wired Foundation.
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Splurge at Bourbon Steak
Outfitted in warm, modern neutrals, Bourbon Steak exudes a cool masculinity fitting for a Mad Men-worthy steakhouse, with a menu that reflects the same sensibility. Start off with a classic cocktail with an updated twist paired with the Ahi Tuna Tartare that's prepared tableside with Ancho Chile, toasted sesame oil, fresh mint and crunchy Asian pear. The perfectly aged cuts of meat, locally sourced and poached in butter, will change your life, while classic American sides prepared with a gourmet hand only enhance the meat with a decadent simplicity. Be sure to try the Black Truffle Mac & Cheese or Wood-Roasted “Magical” Mushrooms.
The new hotspot on the DC restaurant scene, Bourbon Steak, has definitely shown patrons such as Reese Witherspoon and Owen Wilson exceptional American cuisine.
Insider Tip: For a real splurge, try Michael’s lobster pot pie (enough to feed two) at $85 a pop. Be sure to ask Executive Chef, Dave Varley, his wine recommendation as well – aside from executing a flawless menu, Varley has extensive wine knowledge.
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A Brussels-Inspired Brunch at Belga Cafe
odern, Belgian cuisine and extensive beer list, Belga offers a delectable, Eurofusion-inspired menu with traditonal offerings such as light and fluffy Brussels style waffles, dusted with sugar and topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, or mussels with white beer and delicate frites. With an "everyone is family" attitude, Belga exudes a warm and cozy neighborhood feel with its quaint sidewalk cafe and bustling indoor bistro.
For a truly feel-good meal, visit Belga for brunch. Sounds of laughter and the clinking of mimosas echo from the energetic, local clientele. The delicious aroma of fresh waffle batter exuding from the open kitchen will keep you glued to your seat for hours. For an unexpected savory version of the popular Belgian street food, try the warm goat cheese waffle with roasted tomatoes, red pepper coulis and a fresh herb salad.
Insider Tip: Be sure to start your morning off right with Belga's to-die-for Bloody Mary with celery foam that puts a gourmet twist on the classic! For an unexpected kick, try the beer cocktail version, made with Belga Pils and Bloody Mary mix.
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Washington Meets Wonka at Co Co. Sala
y booths sipping sinful libations to the pulse of hip, Latin beats. The light, unique cocktails, like the Strawberry Basil Martini with Balsamic Drizzle, balance the richness of creative savory small plates (all with a subtle hint of chocolate, of course). Be sure to try the Four Cheese Orecchiette with Chocolate Covered Bacon for a to-die-for twist on traditional mac and cheese. To finish off the evening, let the bubbles of a colorful champagne flight tickle your nose as a pairing to a decadent four course dessert tasting.
Insider tip: For a great date spot, be sure to sit at Co Co. Sala's glass-enclosed "chocolate bar." Watch as accomplished pastry chefs create one-of-a-kind chocolate sculptures while you and that special someone savor your own chocolate treats.
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Sophisticated CityZen at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel
American cuisine at this elegant D.C. restaurant. With three menus to choose from – a three-course prix fixe, a six-course tasting menu or a vegetarian tasting menu – patrons have the opportunity to sample a wide array of what the menu has to offer.
In order to incorporate only the freshest ingredients into his dishes, Chef Ziebold changes the menu frequently. So come back for seconds and you're likely to find new dishes for your sampling pleasure. High ceilings, an open kitchen, a warm color scheme and decorative lighting work together to create this sophisticated and chic top-tier restaurant.
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DC’s Morning Must: The Bean Counter