Washington D.C. Best Restaurant/Best Birthday Dinner Spot?
I'm in D.C. for the summer with my boyfriend, and we're both really into great food. I want to take him somewhere spectacular for his birthday in July; any suggestions? We're not picky at all (also we do eat meat), and I'm willing to pay . Somewhere with outdoor seating or beautiful decor would be a plus, but the food and service are most important. We are living in NOVA but I'm happy to take him anywhere in the DC area, and I do have access to a car. Please help! He likes French food but appreciates almost every cuisine. I want to plan now to make a reservation, so suggestions would be much appreciated.
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12 Comments:
I'm a DC resident and anytime a foodie askes for a general recomendation I always say Dino's http://www.dino-dc.com/ it's a wine bar/rustic italina food. The food is always sublime, they have a killer wine list and outdoor seating. It's less than a block from the metro too which is good b/c parking in cleveland park is a bit tricky. I've also heard great stuff about Palena which is up the block.
missjess at 7:06PM on 05/23/09
Perhaps you don't want to eat outside in DC in July. Hot, humid, aromatic ... you get my inference.
You will have no regrets if you take your love to DC Coast. Fabulous.
Or perhaps Filomena in Georgetown? Is La Colline still up on Capitol Hill? I haven't lived there for quite some time.
smallkitchen at 7:56PM on 05/23/09
I'd recommend Zaytinya. http://www.zaytinya.com/
MaeMae at 9:21PM on 05/23/09
My vote would be for Cafe Atlantico.
annatr at 9:29PM on 05/23/09
As a Washingtonian, I would stay away from outdoor dining in July. If you are looking for high end special occasion and want to be in the city, you likely would hit the institutions like Komi, Marcel's and CIntronelle.
In NOVA, Restaurant Eve (truly special) is a great place and can give you a choice of the tasting room and bistro in Old Town. I would also recommend 2941 for its grand decor and high quality food.
These are all expensive, but both well worth it.
If you are looking for well executed, but a step down in price, I would recommend Brasserie Beck, Cafe Atlantico, or Palaena. Even if you want something on the cheap, just head up to 2 Amys for a really special pizza and simple Italian.
My wife took me a couple years ago for my 30th to Minibar. And while I'm not a big molecular gastronomy guy, it was a true pleasure to do. And I think you still in the window to make the reservation window. It's a call two months in advance for one of twelve seats a night.
Good luck, if you want any more help... let me know.
Husband at 9:48PM on 05/23/09
Cafe Atlantico is brilliant for seafood in particular.
I also always liked Les Halles, even though it's a chain. Onglette and Frites, washed down with good wine...hard to beat.
NotAmerican at 4:04AM on 05/24/09
I really like Cafe Atlantico and Citronelle.
Les Halles in DC is closed - I believe they decided not to renew their lease when it ended.
misterhee at 7:18AM on 05/24/09
Went to my BIL's 30th at Marrakesh. It was phenomenal. Delicious Moroccan cuisine, belly dancing, authentic music. Fun! No outdoor seating, though, and I think they only take cash. Call 202.393.9393, reservations required. :D
Susquehanna at 9:06PM on 05/24/09
Any of the Great American locations. Mike's, Arties, Carlyle Grande, Sweetwater Tavern. My favorite is Silverado. Hickory Grilled Chipotle Glazed Pork Chops with Basil Redskin Mashed potatoes and Brown Butter Sauce. Finish with a Warm Flourless Chocolate Waffle.
I miss living in that area just for Great American Restaurants food.
supersu75 at 12:43AM on 05/25/09
I'm from out of town but I absolutely loved Cafe Atlantico. It's my favorite nice restaurant I've been to in DC.
Sakura at 1:06PM on 05/25/09
If you two enjoy seafood, try Kinkead's in Foggy Bottom. Outstanding. Call a few weeks in advance if you want a Friday or Saturday night reservation (202.296.7700).
Susquehanna at 5:37PM on 05/25/09
P.S. Don't let the lame Muzak on the Kinkead's website deter you. The food rocks like Led Zepplin.
Susquehanna at 5:46PM on 05/25/09