Lakegan's (unofficial) Global Foodie Guide

San Francisco Eats

2011-10-17T09:04:00.000-07:00

So...I moved to San Francisco well over a month ago from DC and am embarrassed to say that I've not written ONE blog article about all of the amazing and delicious food here in the Bay Area. What can I say? I've been too busy EATING it! LOL. New blog articles are soon on the way...stay tuned!

Foggy Bottom Farmer's Market

2011-05-26T06:50:00.000-07:00

Foggy Bottom market is in full swing! The market's season is from April 6 to Nov. 23, 2011. The market is open on Wednesdays, from 3pm to 7 pm on I (Eye) Street between New Hampshire and 24th Street, NW. Click here for a map. The nearest metro is Foggy Bottom (Blue or Orange Line). For more public transportation options, see www.wmata.com. The Foggy Bottom farmers bring their premium of fresh fruits, vegetables, vegetables, eggs, organic and grass-fed meats, handmade cheeses, breads/pastries, desserts, preserves, herbs, flowers, plants and more. Read more from Fresh Farm Market website.

Contact: foggybottom@freshfarmmarkets.org

Farmers/Producers
Atwater's Bakery, Blueberry Hill Vegetables, Bonaparte Breads, Cedar Hill Farm (NEW!), Chris' Marketplace, Gunpowder Bison & Trading , Haskins Family Farm, LynnVale Studios, People's Bao (NEW!), Pleasant Pops (NEW!), Quaker Valley Orchards, Sunnyside Farm and Orchard

(Photo: fresh tomatoes and potatoes at the Foggy Bottom Farmer's Market in NW DC; photo by Lakegan Harris)

Roasted salmon, braised chard

2011-04-30T18:57:00.000-07:00

Dinner tonight: roasted salmon, braised swiss chard with sausage and shallots.

For the braised chard, I first cut some sausage and brown it in a pan. Next, I slice a medium size shallot and add to the sausage. Then, I chop 2 cloves of garlic and add to the pan. When the garlic and shallot turn translucent (don't burn the garlic), I take a bunch of chopped chard (my bunch had about 4 or 5 leafy stems) and add to the pan. Next, I add a 1/4 cup of white wine and 1/2 cup of chicken stock. Cook on high and cover for about 3-5 mins, or until chard starts to wilt.

White bean soup with sausage and greens

2011-04-25T16:34:00.000-07:00

This one pot recipe is for a crockpot or slow cooker, but I made it in about 20 minutes in a large pan on the stove! The recipe to follow is from Real Simple magazine. I did a few substitutions and made a few modifications to the recipe. I used polish sausage instead of andouille sausage, but you can choose whatever you like. I also used canned beans instead of dried beans, which cuts the time by 7 hours and 10 minutes. I also used romaine lettuce instead of collards, which works just as well. Just toss the lettuce into the serving bowl and ladle the cooked mixture over it while it's still hot. This leaves some crunch in the lettuce and doesn't completely wilt it. I also added some garlic, about one clove of chopped garlic, and tossed in the thyme bundle about 5-10 minutes before serving at the end when the soup comes to a boil.

Ingredients

1 pound dried white beans (such as cannellini or great Northern)
1/2 pound andouille sausage links, halved lengthwise and sliced crosswise
1 large onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
4 sprigs fresh thyme
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 bunch collard greens, stems discarded and leaves cut into bite-size pieces (about 8 cups)
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
kosher salt and black pepper
olive oil and bread sticks, for serving

Shrimp with leeks and peppers over pasta

2011-03-28T18:11:00.000-07:00

Dinner: Pasta with shrimp, peppers, leeks, shallots and peas.

Lakegan's recipe:
1 leek, cleaned
1 med or large shallot, sliced or chopped
1-2 garlic cloves, chopped
1/4 cup chopped scallions
1/4 cup of peas
1/2 lemon
1/2 cup freshly chopped parsley
1/4 - 1/2 cup peppers (I used a bag of Melange a Trois from Trader Joe's)
1 TBSP red pepper flakes
1/4 cup white wine
1/2 lemon
salt, pepper to taste
1/2 lb. or lb of peeled and deveined shrimp (I used 1/2 .lb for this; if you are serving for more, use 1 .lb of shrimp and maybe double the other ingredients)
1/2 pkg spaghetti noodles

Start a pot of boiling water for the pasta. Be sure to salt the water. Once it comes to a boil, add the pasta. When the pasta has cooked al dente, drain it and reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water. This will help create the sauce.

Meanwhile, sautée the leeks, peppers and shallots in 1 TBSP olive oil. Once vegetables become softened (not mushy), add the garlic (adding it later will prevent it from burning). Add the garlic and cook until garlic begins to turn translucent (or starts to smell delicious). Once all the vegetables have cooked, in the same pan, add the white wine and deglaze the pan with the wine. You can also add a 1 TBSP butter if you desire here. Reduce until alcohol has cooked off. Next, add the squeeze of half a lemon. Cook for another minute. Then, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook until shrimp become pink. Toss in peas and stir. Then, add the pasta water and toss in the pasta. Put fresh parsley on top and red pepper flakes. Serve.

Pan-seared Cod

2011-03-26T14:36:00.001-07:00

I love making simple food at home that's packed with lots of flavor. Like this one. Pan seared cod with sautéed spinach, sausage and shallots. I rendered the sausage and reserved the fat so that I could pan sear the cod. Next, I slice a shallot, chopped some garlic, added the cooked pork, then tossed in the spinach and cooked until the spinach is wilted. I often add a 1/4 cup of white wine to the pan with the spinach mixture during the cooking so that the alcohol burns off. Add salt and pepper to taste. Next, I take cod and pat dry. It sears better when the flesh and skin are as dry as possible. Salt and pepper, then add to the hot pan of rendered pork fat. Cook until brown.

Urbana DC

2011-03-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

"Named one of Washington, DC's "Hottest Restaurant Bar Scenes," Urbana Restaurant and Wine Bar is a destination in and of itself" (quoted from the Urbana DC website). Urbana, which means little city in Italian, has certainly become a hot spot for many Washingtonians. I started eating at Urbana for brunch in 2009. The food was (and still is) very tasty, but quite honestly, I couldn't quite connect with the dinner menu. It wasn't until December of 2010, when Manager Hai Son Kien, who was then Manager at Firefly DC, told me that he would no longer be working at Firefly and that he was moving over to Urbana. Now I'm a follower of GREAT food, but I'm also a follower of good...no, GREAT...service, a wonderful and attentive staff, nice ambiance, and the overall dining experience. I knew that Hai Son's move to Urbana didn't mean that Firefly would suffer; it meant that Urbana would become a new and amazing place. BY that, I mean, Urbana was about to be reinvented. And boy, was I right! This place has literally transformed over night (Ok, so you might think I'm exaggerating a little bit, and maybe I am, but there have been some amazing changes that I think most people will appreciate.

The menu has changed. There are some amazing 'must-try' dishes, such as the pork belly with braised spare ribs, seared scallops, as well as soups, handmade pastas, casseroles, and some delicious chicken, beef and pork dishes. Oh, and let's not forget the local oysters! The new Executive Chef John Critchley, has created a new menu that incorporates "Western Mediterranean influences, emphasizing sustainable seafood with creative but simple techniques." Chef Critchley's experience and attention to food and fresh ingredients is what helps make dining at Urbana quite the experience. And let's not forget the amazing bar! The knowledgeable staff will be sure to recommend nice glass of wine or signature cocktail that's sure to get you in the "spirit"! The bar offers a wide selection of French, Italian, Spanish and American wines, "with a special focus on local and sustainable vintages."

This couldn't be a better time for Urbana. With an amazing and attentive staff, new Executive Chef, new management, new menu, great ambiance, who could ask for anything more? This has become one of my new favorite restaurants in Washington, DC and I hope Urbana continues to improve and maintain its spot in Dupont Circle as one of the hottest restaurants and bar. I, for one, am very pleased with what Urbana has become. "Check, please!"

Oh, and be sure to try the brunch! B.uild Y.our O.wn B.ellini
$16 Bottomless Beverage service for B.Y.O.B. begins at 11:00am and ends at 3:00pm
Purchase of entrée required.

“through an eclectic and approachable brasserie-style menu, urbana embodies this very spirit by celebrating the culinary traditions of northern italy and provence” - john critchley, executive chef

Urbana DC
2121 P Street Northwest, located within the stunning Hotel Palomar Washington DC
Washington D.C., DC 20037
(202) 956-6650
http://www.urbanadc.com

(Photo: top left: slow cooked pork belly, juniper crusted spare ribs, celery root and braised leeks. Photo: bottom right- Eggs Any Style, rustic potatoes and country sausage, by Lakegan Harris)

Anchor Oyster Bar, San Francisco

2011-03-14T14:26:00.000-07:00

Situated in the heart of the Castro in San Francisco on Castro Street, Anchor Oyster Bar serves fresh, delicious seafood that is sure to please the palate! The menu is very simple and straightforward, and offers items from shellfish to oyster cocktails, fresh fish, chowders and San Francisco's famed Cioppino...and let's not forget the delicious garlic bread for dipping. A blackboard surrounded by fishing paraphernalia hangs over the bar and lists the daily specials, which include several main courses, chowders and seafood pasta. Anchor is small and there's always a wait. This little neighborhood gem seats about 8 at the bar, and 5 tables, each seating about 4 people. The food is so amazing though, and well worth the wait.

The chef (yes, 1 chef and 1 assistant!) is AMAZING! Cooks in a tiny kitchen that is open to the dining area. It's rather mesmerizing to watch such delicious masterpieces get cooked and plated right before your eyes!

579 Castro St
(between 18th St & 19th St)
San Francisco, CA 94114
Neighborhood: Castro

(415) 431-3990

www.anchoroysterbar.com

Thai Tanic Restaurant DC

2010-12-20T11:59:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite Thai restaurants in DC, Thai Tanic continues offer delicious food at a very reasonable price. Thai Tanic offers great service from its friendly staff, authentic Thai cuisine and fresh ingredients, and upbeat atmosphere. This place is always at the top of the list when it comes to great Thai cuisine.

Thai Tanic now has two locations and a new sushi bar, Tsunami.

1326-A 14th Street, NW, Washington DC 20005 (Near Rhode Island/Logan Circle)

3462 14th Street, NW, Washington DC 20010 (Columbia Heights)

1326 14th Street Northwest Washington D.C., DC 20005-3611 - (202) 588-5889 (Near Rhode Island/Logan Circle)

Casa Nonna

2010-11-09T06:32:00.000-08:00

Goodbye California Pizza Kitchen (or as most call it, CPK), and hello Casa Nonna! The New York-based BLT Restaurants brand has done it again in Washington. Casa Nonna joins BLT Steak downtown and the forthcoming BLT Burger (at 1317 Connecticut Ave. NW), opening this spring. Casa Nonna, which is a block south at 1250 Connecticut Ave. NW, features menu items such as antipasti, pizza and pasta. The dinner menu includes small plates, sliced meats (charcuterie) and cheeses, wood oven pizza, salads, and family-style portions of italian classics like spaghetti pomodoro, linguine with clams, fettuccine, ravioli and lasagne.

Don't want to wait for a table? Saddle up to the bar and order a cocktail and a few small plates. The risotto balls are delicious! So are the pickled beets and fried calamari.

Casa Nonna is open Mon-Thurs from 11:30am (lunch) - 11pm (dinner); Friday from 11:30a-11:30p, Saturday from 5:30p (dinner) - 11:30p, and Sunday from 4p-10p.

Posto DC

2010-08-30T10:48:00.000-07:00

Situated in the center of Logan Circle, Ristorante Posto adds Italian flare and flavor to the heart of Washington, DC. Before dinner, saddle up to the bar and order one of the many satisfying specialty drinks. Then, the menu, filled with delicious antipasti, affettati, formaggi, pizza, and main courses is certain to give your knowledge of Italian a work-out, as well as your palate! The Ippoglosso (pictured) – pan seared halibut, green pea sauce, grape tomatoes, parsley – green pea salad is AMAZINGLY delicious! Or try the Polipetti— grilled baby octopus, saffron potatoes, chickpeas, frisee salad, phyllo pastry shell for starters, and you'll think you were in Italy! And, the Ravioli— three-meat ravioli, butter thyme sauce...is sure to be a pleaser!

Ristorante Posto
1515 14th Street NW
Washington, DC 20005 (See on the map)
Tel: 202.332.8613
Fax: 202.332.8616
Email restaurant@postodc.com

Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant

2010-08-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

While in Manchester, VT, I had the pleasure of dining at the Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant. Situated in the center of Manchester, the Reluctant Panther provides a beautiful backdrop for fine dining and romantic events, with its gorgeous views of the gardens, grounds, and Equinox Mountain. Two of my best friends from Atlanta, Georgia decided to tie the knot on the grounds of the Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant, followed by a delicious meal and festive cocktails. If you ever find yourself in Manchester, Vermont, this place is great for quaint accommodations as well as delicious food. The staff were very attentive, the atmosphere very romantic, which was perfect for such a joyous occasion.

Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant
17-39 West Road
Manchester Village
Vermont 05254-0678
802-362-2568
(800) 822-2331

Pea Purée, a la Top Chef

2010-08-17T07:16:00.001-07:00

OK, we all know the story about Alex and the pea purée (check out the Power Lunch episode). Here's my version of a dish using the pea purée (this is my spin on the recipe that was recreated by Michael Voltaggio):

1 cup peas (I used frozen organic peas)
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup chopped leeks
1/2 small shallot
Olive oil

First, start by bringing the cream to a small boil (careful not to let it burn). Then add the peas. Meanwhile, in a small pan, I sautée the leeks and shallot. Only sweat the leeks and shallot. You don't want any color. Once the peas start to turn "pea green", remove from the heat. Strain off the cream, but reserve it. You'll use the cream when you purée the peas. Next, take the peas and add them to a blender (I used an immersion blender to do this), along with the shallot and leeks. Pour in the cream as you blend the peas. You might not use all of the cream to purée the peas, but eyeball it to your liking. Drizzle in some olive oil to emulsify the purée.

In the dish pictured here, I pan seared a cod fillet and made a tarragon butter sauce.

Tarragon butter sauce:
butter
tarragon
shallot
white wine
lemon juice

In a pan, I melt 4 TBSP. butter. I sweat half of a shallot in the butter (until they become soft but no color), and then add 1/4 cup of white wine. I squeeze in about half of a lemon and cook on high heat. After it begins to boil, simmer the mixture and let it reduce. Continue to stir. When the sauce starts to thicken, remove from heat. Add a tablespoon of chopped tarragon.

(Photo: Pan seared cod in tarragon a butter sauce with pea purée and sautéed spinach)

Want a Burger? Try Rogue States!

2010-04-27T13:38:00.000-07:00

There's a new burger joint in Washington DC around Dupont Circle...and IMHO (in my humble opinion) it puts Five Guys to shame. I'm not a burger connoisseur, but I was really impressed by Rogue States.
They have an amazing menu of "gourmet" selections, including:

The Rogue State, a house spice blend, chipotle, cilantro
Now & Zen, made with soy sauce, green onion, ginger, toasted sesame seeds
Curried Away, a house curry blend, onion, cilantro, hot chilies
Ciao Down, garlic, tomatoes, basil
No Burger, No Cry, house jerk blend, red onion, habanero peppers (apparently this burger is not for sissies!)
Pardon My French +3, black truffle oil, thyme (it was suggested to add brie and you'll be saying oulala!)
Square One, simply served with sea salt, fresh black pepper

All burgers are 1/4 pound and cost 7$. Additional toppings are available for a charge, and they have sweet potato fries!!! Talk about the best thing I ever ate! The Rogue State was delicious. Now I'll have to work my way down the menu.

Oh, one other thing....the owner, Raynold Mendizabal, keeps the restaurant open into the wee late hours of the morning, catering to a hungry-for-a-snack late crowd. For a change, there's food on a Friday night after a night out on the town!

Web site: http://aburgergrillingcompany.com/
1300 Connecticut Avenue Northwest
Washington, DC
(202) 296-2242

Persillade

2010-01-27T05:53:00.000-08:00

I first heard about persillade from watching an old episode of Jacques Pepin and Julia Child's cooking show, Julia and Jacques Cooking at Home. Persillade is a sauce mixture or herb condiment of parley and garlic. Some recipes add shallot as well. Persil, French for parsley, and ail, French for garlic, together make persillade. Persillade is very common in French and German cuisine, often served with potatoes, or, pommes persillade, and meats. Persillade can also be used as the base of crusts for veal and lamb, if combined with bread crumbs.

Add some lemon zest and you have a gremolata, which is traditionally used as a garnish for braised lamb shanks.

Photo courtesy of Whole Foods Market. Lamb chops with persillade and grey salt (Whole Foods Market recipe)

Source: Wikipedia: Persillade

Tortellini with peas and pancetta

2010-01-20T07:30:00.000-08:00

This was a very easy and simple recipe, with simple and flavorful ingredients. This recipe is a modified version of an alfredo sauce.

For the pasta, if you have the tools, feel free to make your own, or you can just use store-bought pasta. Trader Joe's has a variety of ravioli, tortellini, and dried pastas (you can use any pasta you'd like; just follow the cooking instructions on the package). In fact, all of the ingredients came from Trader Joe's!

Ingredients

1/2 large onion, chopped or diced (or substitute the onion for shallots)
1/2 or 1 cup diced pancetta (you can also use diced ham or even bacon)
1/2 or 1 cup of frozen peas
1 cup heavy cream
3 TBSP butter
1-2 cloves of garlic, minced
salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese (1/2 or 1 cup)
1 package cheese tortellini (or any pasta you prefer)

Start by sautéing the onions and garlic in butter or a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil until translucent. Then add the pancetta and cook until brown. Add the cup of heavy cream and butter to the onions and pancetta and cook until it becomes a bit thickened. Add the pasta and toss in the frozen peas. Stir and incorporate all of the ingredients. Add some parmesan cheese to the mixture and serve. You could also add some additional cheese on top.

Pancetta (definition from Wikipedia.com):

Italian pancetta (Italian pronunciation: [panˈtʃetːa]) is a type of dry cured meat, similar to bacon. It is pork belly that has been salt cured and spiced (nutmeg, pepper, fennel, dried ground hot peppers and garlic are often featured), and dried for about three months (but usually not smoked). There are many varieties, and in Italy each region produces its own type.

Café Cluny

2010-01-13T12:06:00.000-08:00

Café Cluny - This West Village gem is a must try! The dimly lit restaurant is inviting and ambient, creating a cozy and warm environment. The ingredients – fresh, the service – great! This restaurant has a wonderful atmosphere and ambiance and the food is amazing.

Cuisine: American, American (Traditional), European, French, French (Bistro)
Reservations: Suggested (OpenTable)

284 West 12th Street, New York, NY(212) 255-6900‎

"Chef for a Day" Nate Hill - Argentina

2009-12-02T05:57:00.000-08:00

Restaurant Mio continues on the success of their "Chef for a Day" series, welcoming Nate Hill.

Nate's menu will attempt to interpret the intense urbanism palpable in Buenos Aires cuisine next Saturday, December 5th, 2009, in MIO's on-going series of "Chef for a Day", which celebrates the growing influence of urban Latin American cuisine in Washington, D.C.

Enjoy 3-course signature dinner hosted by local Guest "Chef for a Day", Nate Hill.

Time: Between 5:00-9:00 PM
Cost: $40 per person ++
Go to Open Table to make a reservation!
Or RSVP 202.955.0075

MENU:

Appetizers

(Choice of one)
Choripan
**
Provoleta con Oregano
**
Empanadas Argentinas

Entrée (Choice):
Canelones de Espinacas
**
Matahambre con Ensalada Rusa
**
Milanesa de Pollo a Caballo con Papas Fritas
**
Parrilla individual

Dessert (Choice):
Alfajores
**
Helados

http://twitter.com/MioRestaurant
FACEBOOK: MIO RESTAURANT & CAFE

Cedar

2009-08-13T08:08:00.000-07:00

A good friend told me about Cedar and I decided to try it out with my friend Kenzie, who's now moving back to Atlanta next week. I had no idea Kenzie was just as much a foodie as myself, and we had a delicious dinner and great conversation about her new adventure at SCAD Atlanta, and stories about her fabulous mother.

I didn't know what to expect from Cedar, but I must say the food was delicious!
Kenzie ordered a starter, Grilled Seafood and Watermelon Salad with salsa verde. I'm not a fan of savory and sweet, especially fruit, but I must say the shrimp was quite tasty with the melon.

Next course, Kenzie ordered the Butter Poached Lobster with corn, potato puree and hen of the woods, and I ordered the Wild King Salmon with shell bean ragout, spring onions and baby carrots. The lobster was very perfectly cooked and the taste was very refined. The salmon with beans was EXCELLENT! Salmon was also perfectly cooked and very tender, and I loved the crunch and texture of the beans. Perfect pairing.

I was a bit disappointed in the desserts, however. There didn't seem to be enough variety, and the presentation was a bit...beginner. The desserts were a bit too simple and "safe", but tasted good (not GREAT). I ordered the Gateau Basque with peach preserves and white peach-rose sorbet, that was a bit heavy on the rosewater. Kenzie had the Chocolate Praline Crunch Bar with roasted banana and double chocolate ice cream. The bananas seemed more like an afterthought, scattered about the plate.

Overall, the food was fantastic and I'll definitely give it another try.

Cedar executive Chef Andy Kitko
Cedar is located at:
822 E St NW
Washington, DC 20004-2150
(202) 637-0012

Baltimore Restaurants

2009-03-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I wasn't impressed with the restaurant selections around Inner Harbor in Baltimore. If you have a car and can go a bit further out into other areas such as Fells Point, Little Italy, and some other places, you'd have much better luck with some great eats! Here are a few suggestions:

Papermoon Diner
227 W 29th St
Baltimore, MD 21211
(410) 889-4444
www.papermoondiner24.com

Joy America at the Visionary Art Museum
800 Key Hwy
Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 244-1900
http://www.avam.org/joyamerica/index.html

Sascha's 527 Café
527 N. Charles St in historic Mt. Vernon
410-539-8880
http://www.saschas.com/restaurant.html

Helmand
806 North Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21201-5308
410-752-0311
http://www.helmand.com/

Cafe Hon
1002 W 36th St.
Baltimore, MD 21211
(410) 243-1230
http://www.cafehon.com/

Golden West Cafe
1105 W. 36th Street (just around the corner from Falls Rd. on The Avenue in Hampden)
Baltimore, MD 21211
http://www.goldenwestcafe.com/

Bicycle Bistro
1444 Light St.
Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 234-1900
http://www.bicyclebistro.com/

Abacrombie
58 W Biddle St
Baltimore, MD 21201
http://www.abacrombie.net/

Brass Elephant
924 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21201
http://www.brasselephant.com/

Angelina's Restaurant
7135 Harford Rd # 35
Baltimore, MD 21234
(410) 444-5545
http://www.crabcake.com/

Not restaurants, but must-tries in Baltimore:

Dangerously Delicious Pies
Baltimore City
1036 Light St.
Baltimore, MD 21230
410-522-PIES (7437)
410-522-7437

SAVORY HOUSE
3547 Chestnut Ave. (Hampden)
Baltimore, MD 21211
http://www.dangerouspies.com/

Charm City Cakes
2936 Remington Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21211
(410) 235-9229
www.charmcitycakes.com

Dining Out for Life

2009-02-12T12:20:00.000-08:00

Dining Out for Life

STAND UP BY SITTING DOWN
Dine Out Thursday, March 5th!

Dining Out for Life supports thousands of individuals facing HIV/AIDS, cancer and other life-challenging illnesses. Thanks to proceeds from DOFL and Food & Friends, individuals will receive the daily, nutritious meals so vital to their care.

On Thursday, March 5th, more than 150 restaurants, in the Washington region, will donate 25-100% of their proceeds to Food & Friends.

Dining Out for Life is a "true expression of how a community can join forces to save the lives of their neighbors."

View a list of participating restaurants and make your reservation at Open Table's website!

(Photo from the Dining Out For Life website)

Washington, DC Restaurant Week

2009-02-12T12:12:00.000-08:00

DC Restaurant Week
February 16 - 22, 2009

Washington, DC Restaurant Week
Gourmet Prix-Fixe Menus
$20.09 Lunches & $35.09 Dinners

Check out the article from the Washington Post for a listing of participating restaurants.
Also, visit the Official Website, where you can find listings, and link to Open Table for reservations.

(photo from the Open Table website)

Paris Commune

2008-10-21T09:56:00.000-07:00

This "fashionable, stalwart French-American bistro" in the heart of trendy West Village is quite the place to add to anyone's list of foodie restos. With red and white walls, neighborhood vistas from inside, and photographs that remind ANYONE who's ever been to Paris of the beautiful city, Paris Commune is as welcoming and as cozy as any place in Paris, with delicious eggs from the brunch menu, to classical favorites such as “Steak Frites”, French Onion Soup, and American favorites with a French twist, like Lemon Chicken and Meatloaf. A definite MUST-TRY.

Dinner Menu
Brunch Menu (I hear the homemade gingerbread is to die for!)

Paris Commune
99 Bank St., New York, NY 10014
at Greenwich St.
212-929-0509

Price Range: $$$$
Cuisine: Bistro, French

Cafe Cluny

2008-09-05T11:18:00.000-07:00

Pleasant. Urban. Neighborly. Quaint. Hip. Simple. Familiar. These words are what I use to describe my experience and ambiance at Cafe Cluny. This faux-American brasserie in the heart of New York's West Village, run by Chef Lynn Wagenknecht, has done a bang-up job with the consistent yet civilized menu. From salad frisée, topped with lardons and a poached egg, to duck confit and, of course, hanger steak, served with healthful portions of Swiss chard and fingerling potatoes, Cafe Cluny is sure to please the average palate. Dessert inside or out (they have an ice cream cart from which they serve homemade ice cream), you'll leave this place wanting to come back for more.

Cafe Cluny
284 W. 12th St.
New York, NY 10014
at 4th St.
212-255-6900

Hours:
Mon, 8am-3pm and 5:30pm-11pm; Tue-Fri, 8am-3pm and 5:30pm-midnight; Sat, 9am-4pm and 5:30pm-midnight; Sun, 9am-4pm and 5:30pm-11pm

Nearby Subway Stops:
A, C, E at 14th St.

Prices:
$17-$38

Check out the Slide Show, from New York Times online (Photo by Shanna Ravindra)

Sakana Japanese Restaurant

2008-07-01T07:24:00.000-07:00

I'm so embarrassed. I eat at this place ALL THE TIME and hadn't bothered blogging it yet! The food is very good and fresh, and the service is great. Certainly a restaurant worth blogging!!! They do serve more than just sushi, so it's worth a try if you like Japanese food. From edamame to japanese oshinko (pickled vegetables), seeweed salad and green salads, sake and japanese beer. Surely to tempt your tastebuds!

My favorite sushi resto in DC!!!!

Sakana Japanese Restaurant
2026 P St. NW, Washington, DC 20036
202-887-0900

Check out the Washington Post City Guide

TangySweet

2008-07-01T06:57:00.000-07:00

Ok...I'll begin this posting by saying that...I do like Pinkberry. I think it's great. I love the fresh fruit and sweet frozen yogurt. Now there is something SIMILAR here in DC called TangySweet. The frozen yogurt is...well....tangy, and the fruit...sweet. I've tried the Classic and the Pomegranate flavored yogurt. My favorite is Pomegranate. It has a great, subtle flavor of pomegranate juice, but add fresh mango or kiwi, or the raspberries and blackberries and you're in for a treat!

They also have Green Tea, which looks good and seems to be a popular choice among DCists, but wasn't my favorite flavor. It's a little bitter, in my opinion. See what DCist blog has to say about TastySweet.

With its yellow walls and modern lights that change from green to red to blue, Tangy Sweet has become a popular sweet stop in Dupont Circle's P Street. It's especially good after a delicious sushi dinner at Sakana!!!

Tangysweet
2029 P Street NW
Hours: Sunday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.
Metro: Dupont Circle (Red Line)
Price range: $2.50 to $6.50

Seattle Eats!!!

2008-06-22T20:54:00.000-07:00

I tend to eat my way through most cities I visit. There's nothing better than the tasty local treats when on travel. While attending the SLA 2008 Conference in Seattle, I was able to experience some pretty good eats! Listed are a few places I tried. Others were suggestions. Enjoy my tasty travels!

Le Panier Very French Bakery - Need I say more? Check out my pics on Flickr!!
1902 Pike Pl
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 441-3669

Table 219 - This place was GREAT! Dennis and I went here for breakfast and were able to get a table right outside on the sidewalk. The weather was perfect, the food was OUTSTANDING!!! Definitely worth another trip!!!
219 Broadway Ave E
(between John St & Olive Way)
Seattle, WA 98102
(206) 328-4604

BOOM Noodle - The noodles were very tasty and full of flavor. They also serve a signature special mint mojito, which was very good.
1121 E. Pike St.
Seattle, WA 98122
(206) 701-9130
(photo courtesy of Boom Noodle blog/website)

La Spiga Osteria - This place was a great space for the big GLBT dinner. The food was good but the space and atmosphere was amazing.
1429 12th Ave
Seattle, WA 98122
(206) 323-8881

Wild Ginger - The dishes here were amazing!!! The space was great, and the desserts were stellar!!!! I thoroughly enjoyed this restaurant, even the ASPARAGUS!!!!!!
1401 3rd Ave
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 623-4450

Seattle Art Museum, TASTE - I had a nice afternoon lunch here at the Seattle Art Museum one afternoon. TASTE is a very chic, trendy restaurant with great menu selections. The croque madame was great! If you stop by the museum, you should certainly have lunch here at TASTE.
1300 1st Ave
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 903-5291

Campagne at Inn at the Market - I didn't eat here, but I stumbled upon this place while walking around. The inn is VERY cute, and the restaurant very nice and private. Next time I'm in Seattle, I'll certainly check into booking a room here, and trying this restaurant out for sure.
86 Pine St 98101
Seattle, WA
(206) 728-2800

Mourayo, Revisited

2008-06-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

I continue to go to this restaurant. It's good food, consistent, great service. I always want to eat the same thing, but realise I should try something different (LOVE the beet salad). I went there this week with my friend Bill. I'll continue to be a patron at this place. It rates pretty well on my list.

www.mourayous.com/
1732 Connecticut Ave NW # 100
Washington, DC 20009
(202) 667-2100
Menus here

North Square, NYC

2008-06-02T07:25:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago I went to Philly and NYC. While in New York, I had brunch with my friend Hal. He suggested this nice little place, over in the East Village called North Square. The food was EXCELLENT! It's a small place, adjacent to the Washington Square Hotel. Here is what yahoo Travel had to say about North Square:

"An intimate American Restaurant with plush, cozy banquettes and picture perfect views of Washington Square with a separate, hide-away speakeasy cocktail lounge."

The food was great and the atmosphere, very quaint. I would definitely recommend this gem! Thanks Hal!

View my Flickr Set for more photos of food and interior.

103 Waverly Place, New York, NY 10011 | phone, 212.254.1200 | fax, 212.260.1179
Open Hours: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner daily, Brunch Sat.-Sun.

Directions (MAP)

BY SUBWAY

A, C, E, B, D, F, or V trains to West 4th Street station
1 train to Christopher Street / Sheridan Square station
R or W trains to 8th Street station
6 train to Astor Place station
PATH train to 9th Street station

Hotel Bars

2008-05-13T07:36:00.000-07:00

I was reading on Yelp today about cool hotel bars. I've been to a couple while here in DC, and yes, there are some really nice, cool ones. Here's my list:

Kimpton Hotel Bars:

Hotel Palomar's Urbana Lounge, DC - From their website:
"Named one of Washington, DC's "Hottest Restaurant Bar Scenes," Urbana Restaurant and Wine Bar is a destination in and of itself. Centered in Washington DC's energetic Dupont Circle and transported from the vibrant wine regions of Italy and France."

Hotel Helix's Helix Lounge, DC - (also check out Bar Rouge and Topaz) - From the Helix's website:
" Paris Hilton would say, "It's hot." Elvis might think, It's cool." Stop in and find your own description for the sensational Helix Lounge, located right inside the Hotel Helix. Go with the flow."

Omni Shoreham's Marquee Bar and Lounge, DC - From the website:
"Marquee Bar and Lounge is an elegant martini bar serving the finest imported beers on tap."

To try:
Poste at the Hotel Monaco, DC - From the website:
"The bar, which offers classic cocktails and small plates, makes a popular spot after work or after theater. Named for its historic landmark location, Poste has quickly become a favorite for locals and visitors alike."

Garden Terrace at the Four Seasons in Georgetown, DC - From their website:
"A warm and intimate lounge, offering cosy accommodations for afternoon tea, cocktails or light dining. Set amidst an indoor garden of lush green bamboos and flowering plants, with a bubbling fountain and walls of floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the historic C&O Canal. Garden Terrace is one of Washington's favourite places for business or pleasure."

Le Bar at the Sofitel, DC - From their website:
"At Sofitel, we have transformed conviviality and comfort into an art form. Our restaurants and bars provide the perfect setting for relaxing and socializing and offer refined French cuisine with the latest in fusion dishes from around the world."

Domaso Trattoria Moderna (Arlington) - Washington Business Journal says:
"Waterview's new Hotel Palomar Arlington features an Italian restaurant, Domaso Trattoria Moderna, but other choices in Rosslyn are pretty much limited to paper."

Marvin

2008-04-02T07:55:00.000-07:00

Update:
I took my friend Scott there last night for his birthday. The food was great, but the restaurant was very dim (very few and not very bright lights), and very noisy once it got busy. It has a kitchen that opens into the dining room, which adds an extra layer of noise. Overall, it was good. I'd recommend getting there early to beat the crowd and the noise, and be sure to make a reservation (see link below for Opentable.com).

From Chicken and waffles to waterzooi, Belgium's classic marriage of cream and seafood, Marvin's seems to please the palate of many DCists. Blending into the strofronts along 14th ST, NW, near U Street, Marvin's, a very non-descript and hard-to spot restaurant has proven to not be a challenge for locals.

Washington Post review:
"There's no flashy sign announcing what's inside 2007 14th St. NW. Instead, discreet stenciling on the door and a bucket of champagne in the window suggest that the owners want to keep things low-key..."..."Marvin gives off a warm vibe. The dining room, dressed with framed chalkboards listing wines by the glass and naked light bulbs plunging from the ceiling, looks as if it had been imported from Brussels, and the tunes are a soulful mix of funk, jazz and even (Jamaican) ska. In a city whose restaurants sometimes fail to reflect the existence of Washington's large African American population, Marvin is a happy exception, although the clientèle represents a rainbow coalition of faces and ages."

For dessert, Scott and I shared this delicious chocolate dessert with homemade ice cream....was very nice!

Be sure and make a reservation!

2007 14th St. NW,
Washington, DC 20009
202-797-7171

Hours: Sun-Thu 5:30 to 11 p.m., Fri-Sat 5:30-midnight; Brunch Sat-Sun 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Price: $$ (Average entree $11-$20)
Atmosphere Type: Bar, Lounge, Patio/Rooftop
Cuisine: Bistro, Belgian, Southern/Soul
Neighborhood: U Street/Cardozo
Nearest Metro: U Street/African-American Civil War Memorial/Cardozo (Green and Yellow lines)

Café Tropé

2007-12-20T12:42:00.000-08:00

(Photo courtesy of Cafe Trope website)
Coming soon (old location of 21 P Restaurant), a new French-Caribbean restaurant called Café Tropé, owned by Chef Howsoon Cham of Red Ginger.

(Quoted from Chowhound.com's website):
Chef/Owner Howsoon Cham will open the doors on December 28th for dinner service, Sunday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Signature dishes include Foie Gras with Coconut French Toast and Cranberry Jam; Jamaican Jerk Chicken Lollipops with Fried Cabbage, Potatoes and Vidalia Onion Hash; Rum and Apple Cider Cured Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potato Puree and Rum Sauce, and Crabmeat Stuffed King Head-On Prawns with Nantua Sauce. A choice of any two courses will be available for $24, any three courses for $34, any four courses for $46 and any five courses for $55.

For additional information, please call (202) 223-9335 or visit the website at: www.cafetropedc.com.

Zola

2007-11-19T05:24:00.000-08:00

(Image courtesy of Zoladc.com)

This American-themed restaurant, located in the historic Penn Quarter in the vintage Le Droit building, keeps with the theme of the Spy Museum, which is situated just beside the restaurant. Zola, with its modern style and rather tasteful "spy" theme, amuses our palates with dishes like Tuna Tartar with spicy lime vinaigrette, cucumber salad, and whipped lemon cream, or the "No Fuss Mussels", made with Smithfield Ham, tomatoes, arugula, Lemon, Garlic, Crisp Potatoes (very good and very salty!), and Grilled Flat Bread proscuitto, fresh figs, foie gras butter, mascarpone and balsamic drizzle.

I had the pleasure of eating there with my friend Jim, after seeing Paula Deen at the Convention Center a few weeks ago. We had a nice time. The food was good, great atmosphere, although I'm sure during events around the MCI Center and National Portrait Gallery, it can get rather busy there, and probably noisy. I'm not sure what the dinner would be like; we only shared a couple of appetizers.

Gallery Place - Chinatown (green, yellow and red lines) at 7th St & F St, NW (0.05 miles away)

Phone: 202-654-0999
Fax: 202-654-0998

Hours
* Sun. 5-10PM
* Mon.-Fri. 11:30AM-midnight
* Sat. 5PM-midnight

Restaurant
* American

Price
* $$ (moderate)
* $7-$24

Sorriso

2007-11-15T10:24:00.000-08:00

Sorriso, located at the Cleveland Park metro, is an "authentic, family-run" Italian restaurant. The menu ranges from homemade pizza with fresh ingredients, to calzoni, and daily specials like soups, grilled sardines, and risotto.

My buddy Michael loves this place. He says:

"It's my favorite Italian/Pizza place in the tri-state area.........it's a little small but has a very "family" atmosphere..... the owners always hug and kiss the patrons.........and the bartender is a total hoot!! all in all.. a very fun and friendly environment........with great food.. I give it a 9.5 on a 10 point scale.."
I'll have to try it and see for myself!

Sorriso Ristorante is located at 3518 Connecticut Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20008

Get a map for this location.
Only the finest local and imported meat, fish and produce. Open: Mon: (5:30-10:30 pm)
Tues-Fri (12:00-2:30 pm & 5:30-10:30 p.m.)
Sat (12:00-10:30 pm)
Sun. (5:00-10:00 p.m.)

Westend Bistro

2007-11-14T10:17:00.000-08:00

(photo courtesy of Westend Bistro website)

Westend Bistro is becoming all the rage for DC locals. It's a new, stylish restaurant in the West End of Washington, DC on M Street, inside of the Ritz Carlton hotel. Here's what Eric Ripert, Culinary Director, reports in the Zagat about the new bistro:

One-Week Countdown to DC's Westend Bistro by Eric Ripert

DC foodies, who have been counting down the hours to the November 8th debut of The Ritz-Carlton's Westend Bistro by Eric Ripert, will rejoice that they have only one more week to go until they can taste Ripert's (of NYC's acclaimed Le Bernardin) take on classic French and American fare (think fish burgers with saffron aïoli and roast stuffed chicken). While the food – prepared by Le Bernardin's former sous-chef Leonardo Marino – is clearly the draw here, the bistro's sleek environs glowing with gold leaf and seductive lighting ensure it's a feast for all senses (1190 22nd St. NW; 202-974-4900).

I'm looking forward to trying this one out. The menu sounds fantastic, with a theme of American cuisine, and prices ranging from $31 to $50.

Email: info@westendbistrodc.com
Phone: (202) 974-4900
Hours of Operation:
Dinner: Sunday-Thursday 5:30-10:00PM
Friday & Saturday 5:30-11:00PM Bar: 5:30-11:00PM- (Cocktails and Bar Menu) (December 2007)Lunch: Monday-Saturday 11:30-2:30PM (December 2007)Sunday Brunch: 11:30-2:30PM
CLOSED FOR HOLIDAYS

Public Transit: Foggy Bottom/GWU & Dupont Circle
Parking: Valet

Black Salt

2007-11-07T10:55:00.000-08:00

(photo courtesy of Blacksaltrestaurant.com)

I've heard numerous times about this fish market and seafood restaurant called Black Salt, and am dying to try it out.
From their website:
"Washington’s premier seafood restaurant, is wholly committed to the sustainability of fish and shellfish stocks worldwide. Located at 4883 MacArthur Blvd. in Washington, DC, Black Salt has been reviewed as one of the top 100 restaurants in DC.

Paired with fine wines, the food at Black Salt (so I hear) is amazing and fresh. Well worth a trip!

4883 MacArthur Blvd
Washington, DC 20007
Phone: 202-342-9101
Fax: 202-342-9100
Get Map

Lunch Monday - Saturday
11:30am to 2:30pm
Brunch Sunday
11:00am to 2:00pm

Dinner Monday - Thursday
5:30pm to 9:30pm
Friday 5:30pm to 11:00pm

Saturday 5:00pm to 11:00pm
Sunday 5:00pm to 9:00pm

Fish Market Hours
Monday - Thursday 10:00am - 9:00pm

Friday - Saturday 10:00am - 10:00pm
Sunday 11:00am to 9:00pm

Other restaurants include:
Addie's Restaurant New American cuisine. Rockville, MD
Black's Bar & Kitchen Modern American Seafood. Bethesda, MD
Black Market Bistro New American cuisine. Garrett Park, MD
BlackSalt Fish Market & Restaurant Contemporary American Seafood. Washington, DC.

(Image from the black salt website)

Grillfish

2007-10-10T12:51:00.000-07:00

(photo from the Grillfish website)

The dinner here is fantastic! Great fresh fish (the grilled Mahi Mahi is fantastic), and delicious sauteed spinach! YUM!

Grillfish can get a bit noisy, but the food is well worth it.

From their website:

"Grillfish…the concept...is a casual, moderately-priced restaurant, specializing in fresh, grilled seafood and deliciously-sauced pasta. The restaurant is dominated by its “signature” oversized, floor-to-ceiling, erotic mural extending the entire wall behind the large stone bar. A definite conversation piece. The bar is ornately decorated with massive mirrors, large columns and a multitude of glowing candles. These, along with the open kitchen where flames leap from the grill, create a warmth and intimacy in a casual atmosphere."

Grillfish

Grillfish Washington D.C.
1200 New Hampshire Ave. NW
Washington D.C.
In Dupont Circle/West End

Lunch served Monday through Friday
12 Noon to 4 PM
Dinner served: Sunday 5:00-10
Mon-Thur 4-10 | Friday 4-11
Saturday 5:00-11

Happy Hour 4pm to 7pm Mon.-Fri.
and 5pm to 7pm Sat. and Sun.

Half priced appetizers and NEW
Half priced drink specials
Friday Happy Hour - Standing Room Only

Vapiano

2007-10-10T11:39:00.000-07:00

(photo courtesy of Vapiano.com)
My friend John ate at this place and really liked it. It's on my "to-do" list.

From their website:

"Vapiano is a fast casual restaurant with a twist - customers use a "chip card" to personally order their food or drinks from the bar or from the individual fresh pizza, pasta or salad stations. With this new innovative technology, Vapiano is going to change the way restaurants do business!"

Vapiano M Street
1800 M Street N.W.
Washington DC
P.202-640-1868
F. 202-640-1869

Hours
Mon.-Thurs. 11:00- 11.00
Fri. 11:00-12:00
Sat. 12:00-11:00
Sun. 12:00-10:00

Brasserie Beck

2007-10-10T11:32:00.001-07:00

(photo courtesy of Brasserie Beck website)
My friend David raves about this place, and from the looks of things, I'll be going there soon to check it out myself! Stay tuned for my review of the Becks!

Brasserie Beck
1101 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 408-1717

Details (see DC Foodies for more information):
Dress Code: Casual
Parking: Valet is $7 but has a tendency to back up. Street parking is NOT plentiful, but sometimes you're lucky enough to find a spot.
Smoking: Not Allowed.
Closest Metro: Metro Center, McPherson Square, Mt. Vernon Square
Reservations: Taken and recommended.

Bar Pilar

2007-08-09T12:21:00.000-07:00

Next to Saint Ex is Bar Pilar, a restaurant and bar that "blends distinct local character with true international flavor."

I've never been, but my friend Laura has a few times and really likes it. I think there is a connection with Saint Ex and Bar Pilar. Worth checking out for sure!

Bar Pilar is located in downtown Washington, DC on 14th Street NW, between S and T Streets.

* * *

Our street address is:

Bar Pilar
1833 14th Street NW
Washington, DC 20009
Bar Pilar is located only two blocks from the U-Street Cardozo Metro Stop on the Green line. We encourage you to ride Metro. Last trains depart the U-Street station at 11:48pm on weekdays and 3:21am on Friday and Saturday nights.

Saint-Ex

2007-08-09T12:14:00.000-07:00

In the 14th and U Street Corridors, Café Saint-Ex is a charming restaurant and lounge that integrates a classic bistro-café ambiance with vintage aviation and travel motifs from the art deco era, with inspiration from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the aviator-author of the classic children's fantasy 'The Little Prince.'

"GATE 54", the downstairs lounge at Café Saint-Ex, is a destination on its own, offering a vibrant yet relaxing atmosphere. Libations flow, as the Saint-Ex DJs spin a diverse variety of grooves in a comfortable art deco inspired hangar-lounge setting.

I've eaten here maybe twice. The food is good and it's a charming restaurant, but can get crowded and could take a bit of a wait if you don't have reservations.

Also Serving Saturday and Sunday Brunch
• Brunch menu served 11am - 4pm
• Dinner service starting at 5pm daily.

Hours of Operation
• Sunday: 11:00am - 1:30 am
• Monday: 5:00pm - 1:30 am
• Tuesday - Thursday: 11:00am - 1:30 am
• Friday - Saturday: 11:00 am - 2:30 am

Café Saint-Ex
1847 14th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20009
Tel: 202.265.STEX (7839)

info@saint-ex.com

Mourayo

2007-08-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

My friend Jody took me to this place a few weeks ago. It was great. The food was good, there wasn't a crowd of people (on a Friday night), the drinks were fabulous and the atmosphere, Greek. This place is DEFINITELY on my list for another try!!!

Mourayo
General Information
1732 Connecticut Ave NW (Between R and S streets).
Washington, DC 20009
Metro: Dupont Circle Red Line
Phone: (202) 667-2100
Fax: (202) 667-4273
Email Address: mourayo@mourayous.com
Website: http://www.mourayous.com

Hours of Operation:
Lunch - Monday thru Friday:
11:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
(see also: DC Greeks)

Dinner - Monday thru Thursday and Sunday:
5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Dinner - Friday and Saturday:
5:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

The Diner, Meatpacking District in New York City

2007-07-30T12:54:00.001-07:00

If you're looking for a good diner near the Meatpacking District near Chelsea, The Diner is the place to go. The burgers are good (I had the sliders, and my friend Hal had a burger). It's a nice place to sit and people-watch in the summertime when they have the windows open.
The Diner....Meatpacking District
Sun 10am-2am
Mon 11am-2am
Tues 11am -3am
Wed-Thurs 11am-5am
Fri 11am-6am
Sat 10am-6am
44 9th Ave. at W 14th
212.627.2230

Taka Restaurant

2007-07-30T12:47:00.000-07:00

Taka..."Fine Japanese Contemporary
Cuisine........is more than Sushi"

Talk about a diamond in the rough! Taka seems to be the best thing that has happened to Asbury Park! This restaurant is BEAUTIFUL, and the food is FANTASTIC! Described by the Zagat Review as "beautiful, sophisticated and sleek", this Japanese restaurant has definitely proven itself to be the best food along the Jersey Shore!

Taka Restaurant, Asbury Park, NJ
632 Mattison Ave.
(Main St.)
Asbury Park, NJ 07712
732-775-1020

Dukem Ethiopian Cuisine

2007-07-27T08:32:00.000-07:00

My new friend Martín introduced me to Ethiopian food this week. We went to Dukem Restaurant on U St. NW. Martín and I shared Combination #24 and the food was GREAT! It was PLENTY of food for 2! The atmosphere was nice, although they do live performances in the restaurant and it can get rather loud (too loud if you're trying to talk to your friends). All in all, it was a great dining experience and I'd love to try it again!!! Thanks, Martín!!!!
(Check out the photos on Flickr!)

Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant
1114 - 1118 U Street (12th Street NW)
Washington D.C. 20009
Tel: 202-667-8735 Fax: 202-667-2498
and
Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant # 2
1100 Maryland Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21201
Tel: 410-385-0318

DIRECTIONS
(Corner of 12 St. & U St. NW)
Located next to the Cordoza U Street metro station.

Follow link on map for Driving Directions from your home, office or starting location.

Giada De Laurentiis' Weekend Getaway to Washington, DC!

2007-07-27T08:03:00.001-07:00

From the looks of things, you'd think I haven't been eating out. Truth is...I HAVE!
Giada De Laurentiis was on tv Monday night (her show, Giada's Weekend Getaways). She was in Washington, DC (..and no one told me!) for a weekend of fun and food!
Giada hit some tourist places during her weekend visit, and found some great dining venues that are right under my nose!

For Food:
Citronelle
Chocolate Decadence @ The Ritz Carlton
The Dancing Crab
Cafe Atlantico
Zola (Finally went here with my friend Jim and the food was fantastic! They also have excellent cocktails, and the views from the cocktail bar are great too! You can also get to Madame Toussaud's Wax Museum, which is close by! Go say hi to Whoopi!)
Dupont Circle Market

For fun:
The White House
The Capitol building
Washington Monument
Jefferson Memorial
Lincoln Memorial
City Segway Tours of Washington DC
International Spy Museum

You can catch Giada on the Food Network's website

NOTE: Chocolate Decadence
Every Friday from February 2nd - April 27th 7 - 10pm

Indulge in a sinful gourmet chocolate buffet! Chocolate Decadence, a chocoholic's dream come true, is presented every Friday in our Lobby Lounge. For a mouth-watering taste of the decadence in store, imagine cooking stations for individual chocolate-raspberry tarts, milk chocolate-banana-passion fruit macaroons, chocolate napoleons, chocolate éclairs, triple chocolate cakes, opera cakes, Black Forest cakes, and chocolate waffles served with a rum ice cream. And that’s just for starters.

(photo courtesy of the Food Network's website)

Firefly

2007-04-05T07:49:00.000-07:00

Firefly is a nice little restaurant adjacent to the Hotel Madera, near Dupont Circle. With its contemporary flare, floor-to-ceiling "firefly tree", hung with lanterns and lit by candles, Firefly offers casual yet sophisticated dining with a a nice relaxing ambiance. The food is good, though the restaurant can be a bit noisy with the flat surfaces and hardwood flooring, but well worth the dining experience.

Address:
1310 New Hampshire Avenue, NW (Dupont Metro, Red Line, South exit below Dupont Circle)
Washington, DC 20036
Tel: 202.861.1310
Fax: 202.293.2476

Breakfast:
Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Saturday & Sunday, 8 a.m. - 10 a.m.

Brunch:
Sunday, 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Lunch:
Monday - Friday, 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Dinner:
Monday - Thursday, 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday, 5:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday, 5 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Firefly accepts all major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and Discover.

Busara Thai Cuisine

2007-02-23T11:05:00.000-08:00

Talk about good Thai food!!! This restaurant is consistently FANTASTIC! They have 3 locations in the metro DC area. I've eaten at the Reston location a number of times, and I imagine the other locations are just as good. Definitely at the top of my list of great Thai restaurants in town. The food is reasonable, fast, and flavorful!
They seem to all be consistently GOOD! I haven't been disappointed at this restaurant yet.

BUSARA, DC
2340 Wisconsin Ave. NW
Wasington D.C. 20007
Phone: 202-337-2340
Email: dc@busara.com

BUSARA, TYSONS
8142 Watson Street
McLean, VA 22102
Phone: 703-356-2288
Fax: 703-356-0056
tysons@busara.com

BUSARA, RESTON
11964 Market Street
Reston, VA 20190
Phone: 703-435-4188
Fax: 703-435-4008
reston@busara.com
(image courtesy of busara.com)

Café Henri, NYC

2007-02-21T07:26:00.000-08:00

OK, how could I have forgotten this place!?!?!!?
Visited when I was in NYC for New Years 2006. This little cafe, tucked away in the West Village, definitely is a great spot in the city.

Small and quaint, and "très charmant", Café Henri definitely was the answer to my chocolat chaud search on a cold December evening.

Manhattan/West Village
27 Bedford St
(at Carmine St & Downing St)
New York, NY 10014
(212) 243-2845
(photo courtesy of http://www.5sl.com/)

Mama Ayesha's

2007-02-20T20:29:00.000-08:00

Mama Ayesha's on Calvert Street. Talk about a GEM! This place is fantastic! Great atmosphere and the food is delicious!

The Washington Post City Guide says:

Mama Ayesha started to develop a following as a chef at the Syrian Embassy when she first came to the country; now the restaurant belongs to her nephew. In many ways, it's like dining in a private home.
Mama Ayesha offers many of the best Middle Eastern specialities, from shish kebab, to kifta kebab, couscous, rice and stuffed grape leaves.

This is a MUST TRY!!!!!!! (Thanks David!)

Mama Ayesha’s Restaurant
1967 Calvert Street, NW
Washington, DC 20009
(202)232-5431
(photo courtesy of mamaayeshas.com)

Matchbox Pizza

2007-02-13T19:02:00.000-08:00

Last night I went to the most delicious pizzeria in town - Matchbox.

The cocktails were good, and they have this appetizer called 3.6.9 mini burgers. They are also known as sliders.

Lots of flavor and quite tasty (not as good as PoP Burger in New York, though!)
The pizza was DELICIOUS! Cooked in a wood-fire oven, this delicious pizza literally melts in your mouth it's so good!!! Matchbox is located in a "vintage urban building 15 feet wide and three stories tall" in the heart of Chinatown. This is a must-eat! I'd suggest making a reservation ahead of time. It was PACKED and took about 45 minutes to get a table, but well worth the wait.
They also have what they call Quittin' Time Cocktails, which is Happy Hour from 5-7 pm Monday through Friday. The following drinks are on special during Quittin' Time:

$2.75 Yuengling Lager pints
$1 off all other drafts except for Belgian Beers
$4 infused matchbox martinis
$2 off small pizzas at the bar only

Matchbox is located at:
713 H St NW,
Washington, D.C. 20001-3733
202.289.4441 phone
202.289.1947 fax
Open Monday through Friday,
11:00 AM - Close
Weekends, 12:00 PM - Close

Blue Duck Tavern

2007-01-16T11:06:00.000-08:00

Nestled in a quaint yet open space inside of the Hyatt on M Street, NW, Blue Duck Tavern

"welcomes you with wholesome American fare prepared through simple, time-honored cooking methods such as roasting, braising, preserving and smoking"

Designed by Tony Chi, Blue Duck Tavern gives the look and feel of an open, country yet contemporary kitchen with a wood burning oven, and wood furniture and finishes, including a 29-foot long Windsor bench!!

The menu offers a variety of regional delicasies, made with the freshest ingredients.
The service is great and the food is fantastic (..yes, Frog's legs DO taste like chicken)!

Chef Brian McBride
To contact or to make a reservation
OpenTable.com for reservations online
24 & M Streets, Northwest
1201 24th St. NW
Washington, D.C.
20037
T {202} 419 6755
(directions)

(photos courtesy of blueducktavern.com)

Thailand Royal ST.

2007-01-11T09:37:00.000-08:00

Thailand Royal Street in Old Town Alexandria has a great ambiance and the food is excellent. Was a recommendation from my Dreamweaver instructor who went there yesterday for lunch. Service was fast and the food was very fresh. You'd definitely love this place. I would definitely recommend this one!

Map, directions and hours

New York Dining - Yaffa Cafe

2007-01-03T08:42:00.000-08:00

I spent the New Year's weekend in New York visitng my friend Corey Craig. Corey lives in Manhattan, and dj's on the side at Brite and Vlada. I had a fantastic weekend, and was able to see some of the city and enjoy some great food. I met with a friend, Raym, who took me down to the Lower East Side, where we had lunch at Yaffa Cafe. They serve this very interesting carrot salad dressing, which was amazing! Yaffa is supposedly known for vegan/vegetarian/healthy food, with a dash of goth. Goth? Hmm...jury's still out, but the food was fantastic!
Raym had a very nice spicy chicken sandwich, and I enjoyed a nice dijon chicken dish with mushrooms and artichokes. The food was very good and reasonably priced.
(Click here for other reviews and images of Yaffa Cafe)

Yaffa Cafe
97 St. Marks Pl. (Between 1st & A)
NYC, NY
(212) 674-9302

Montmartre, Eastern Market

2006-12-21T06:56:00.000-08:00

OMG...I ate here last night with my friend Scott, and the food was FANTASTIC! We started off with a warm potato salad as an appetizer, and Scott had a nice soup that was very tasty. For the entree, I had the delicious hanger steak, which was very nice and succulent. Cooked to perfection with sauteed and fingerling potatoes....YUMMY! Scott had veal over a bed of navy beans, which was very hearty. I was very impressed with the food and the ambiance there and hope to go back again. If you ever go, make sure you make a reservation, though Scott and I ate at the bar, which was just as nice.

Montmartre
(their official website is: Montmartre, but there is no information about the restaurant at this link)
327 7th St. SE
Washington, DC 20003
(202/544-1244)
Capitol Hill

Alcione Vinet's Park Cafe, Capitol Hill

2006-12-18T08:46:00.000-08:00

Alcione Vinet's Park Cafe
If you're ever on Capitol Hill and looking for a nice, quaint, romantic place, this is it. It's small and very cozy. The food is excellent, and the ambiance is fantastic!

Directions
The Park Cafe is located at the eastern end of Capitol Hill's Lincoln Park at 106 13th Street, SE in Washington DC.

(Photo and details courtesy of The Park Cafe)

Bistrot du Coin

2006-12-13T10:06:00.000-08:00

Bistrot du Coin, located on the upper end of Dupont Circle on Connecticut, is a great neighborhood resto in the heart of Washington, DC. Their motto is "French, Fun and Friendly, with "good food at a fair price."

Quoted from their website:

The origin of Bistrot is Russian. In Russian Bistrot means "Quick". That's why a guest can expect to get fast service. The color of a real Bistrot is pale yellow to brown (otherwise known as Bistre) because in French cafes the walls get dirty quickly from nicotine. Bistrot du Coin means a neighborhood Bistrot.

Bistrot Du Coin
1738 Connecticut Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20009
Tél: 202 234 6969 - Fax: 202 234 6965
Bistrot is open 7 days a week, 364 days a year, only closed on Labor Day, the 1st Monday of September.
(Image courtesy of Bistrotducoin.com)

Zaytinya

2006-12-13T08:47:00.000-08:00

Greek tapas, also called Mezze or Meze, which "is a selection of appetisers or small dishes taken with alcohol, similar to tapas of Spain (Turkish Meze from Arabic: مزة; Greek Μεζές, pl. Μεζέδες; Bulgarian, Serbian, Macedonian мезе, Montenegrin Meza, Russian Закуска‎), in eastern Mediterranean, Bulgarian and Turkish cuisine"
The food here is...in a word....DELICIOUS. The atmosphere is great (though can be a little noisy), but well worth the trip. If you visit, you should definitely make a reservation. Reservations can be made by calling (202) 638-0800 or using Open Table. You can either eat at the bar, which is just as good as getting a table. I HIGHLY recommend this place!
(image courtesy of http://www.zaytinya.com)

Zaytinya
corner of 9th and G Streets, NW
701 9th Street NW
Washington, DC 20004
tel (202) 638-0800
fax (202) 638-6969

Jorge Chicas, Head Chef and Restaurant Director
Sandy Lewis, General Manager

Lauriol Plaza

2006-10-04T08:57:00.000-07:00

Lauriol Plaza was the first restaurant I found in DC. I met my friend Laura there the day I came for an interview (she lives around the corner...how convenient!).
The food there is great, and so is the lively atmosphere. They have refreshing mojitos and margaritas, and a whole menu of alcoholic beverages to choose from! This place is a jewel, found in the middle of Dupont near Adams Morgan. Whether it's lunch, brunch, or dinner, you're sure to find something to curb your appetite for mexican fare!

Loriol Plaza
1835 18th ST. NW
Washington, DC
202-387-0035
http://www.lauriolplaza.com/aboutus.html
Restaurant Hours
Sun – Thu: 11:30am – 11:00pm
Fri – Sat: 11:30am – 12:00am

Kafe Leopold's, Georgetown

2006-09-28T07:39:00.000-07:00

Kafe Leopold's...This place is AWESOME! Very European flair, and the food is WONDERFUL! The Brathend, or roasted chicken, is to DIE FOR! VERY filling and tangy, with a delicious mustard sauce and escarole and fingerling potatoes. The atmosphere is very nice and European, and the desserts are more than worth the trip! You can sit outside near the fountain on the plaza, or inside next the to the dessert showcase.....YUM!!!! YOU HAVE TO Try the Sachertorte (pictured below)!

Kafe Leopold's
3318 M St. NW (Georgetown)
(On Cady's Alley)
Washington, DC 20007

Belga Café, Capitol Hill

2006-09-25T10:26:00.000-07:00

(photo courtesy of Opentable.com)

Belga Café, Capitol Hill
514 8th Street, SE
Washington, DC 20003

This restaurant is WONDERFUL! Chef Bart Vandaele does a fantastic job at bringing delicious specialities of Belgium to the Nation's Capitol. You can find one of Belgium's well-known dishes - mussels and frites - right on the menu! They also serve a delicious Waterzooi van vis (I tried this for the first time and LOVED IT!). Belga is a MUST-DO! Take the Orange or Blue Line Metro to Eastern Market and head to 514 8th ST, NE.

Belga Café writes...

"Belga café is a great place to eat typical Belgian and Euro-Fusion cuisine. Combining an intriguing atmosphere with excellent, light and healthy interesting food. Belga Café is a little bit of Brussels on the Hill, with an open kitchen and a sidewalk café."

Dining Style: Casual Elegant
Cuisine: European
Neighborhood: DC - Capitol Hill
Cross Street: Pennsylvania Ave.
Price: $30 and under
Website: www.belgacafe.com
Email: info@belgacafe.com
Phone: (202) 544-0100

Hours of Operation:
Lunch: Monday - Friday 11:30pm - 3:00pm
Dinner: Monday - Thursday 5:30pm - 10:00pm Friday & Saturday: 5:30pm - 11:00pm Sunday: 5:00pm - 9:30pm
Brunch: Saturday & Sunday 11:00am - 3:30pm.
Restaurant is now OPEN on Mondays.
Payment Options:
AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Additional information:
Executive Chef: Bart M. Vandaele
Dress Code: Casual Dress
Accepts Walk-Ins: Yes
Offers: Bar Dining, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cafe, Chef's Table, Full Bar, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Personal wines welcome (corkage fee applies), Smoking Area, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
Public Transit: Eastern Market Metro stop on the Orange and Blue line
Parking: Street Parking

Sunday Brunch @ La Tavola

2006-07-31T15:58:00.000-07:00

I was invited to brunch at La Tavola by my friends Steve and Ben. I had no idea they served brunch, and it was really very good! I had the Chicken Sausage, which was served over potato-leek hash with poached eggs and a spicy cherry pepper chutney, and it was VERY good! I'd love to go back for dinner, but my time in Atlanta is winding down (I'm moving to Washington, DC in a couple of weeks).

Contact:
La Tavola Trattoria
992 Virginia Ave, NE
Atlanta, Georgia 30306
telephone - 404.873.5430

Back Inn Cafe, Chattanooga

2006-07-08T09:26:00.000-07:00

(photo courtesy of Virtual Cities website)
Back Inn Café
Located in historic Bluff View Inn's Martin House, Back Inn Café offers upscale global cuisine with an extensive wine list. Indoor and outdoor terrace seating with spectacular river views make this one of Chattanooga's most scenic and unique restaurants. Reservations suggested but not required. Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner.

My friends Omar, David, and Joss from Switzerland went to the Back Inn Cafe and had some fantastic desserts.

Back Inn Cafe
Phone: (423) 265-5033 ext. 1
Summer Hours: 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Sunday though Thursday, 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday
Winter Hours: 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. Tuesday though Thursday, 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Sunday

Bab's Midtown Atlanta

2006-07-08T09:11:00.000-07:00

Bab's in Atlanta has become a fantastic place for brunch or lunch. My friend Omar podcasted live from Bab's in Midtown Atlanta with his guests David Jett, Jeff Keesee, and myself (check out The Other O Show online). The sweet potato fries with curry dipping sauce are great as a side item or just by themselves, and the roast beef sandwich is to die for, as well as the Juniper Street wrap, and the chicken and brie panini. You can check out the menu at Bab's.

New Orleans weekend

2006-07-02T14:06:00.000-07:00

Sun Ray Grill

Locations
Ken and I, along with some other librarian colleagues and friends went to a birthday celebration at this delicious restaurant. We all had a variety of entrees and apps. The ambiance was excellent, though noisy, but the food was very good!

Juan's Flying Burrito

This place was a cool dive. The food wasn't THAT great, but it was cheap and the people were cool.

Another fantastic place Ken and I had the pleasure of enjoying was VooDoo BBQ and Grill.

The food was SOOO GOOD! They have fantastic side items like Gris Gris greens, (Click here to find out what Gris Gris means) potato salad that tastes like a loaded baked potato, according to Ken, and corn pudding, not to mention the macaroni and cheese (YUM!) and ribs and sausage that was to DIE FOR! Ken and I must have gainied 20 pounds from those meals!!!

Click for locations

Dinner at Ma Li

2006-06-18T12:13:00.000-07:00

Ma Li. This has to be THE BEST Thai and sushi restaurant in town! I LOVE this place! The atmosphere, the food, the service. I couldn't ask for anything better. There are a few things on the menu that I just LOVE:
SUSHI, of course!
Seafood in Claypot is FANTASTIC!
Nua Num Tok is EXTRA spicy!!! Juicy pieces of beef in a spicy sauce and well-seasoned
Lemongrass Chicken Grilled Char-grilled chicken marinated in lemongrass and searved with vegetables and a delicious red sauce!
The owner, Joy, is the nicest person you'll ever meet! She's very friendly (and so is the staff) and she makes sure you're being taken care of!
Thanks, Joy! truly an Atlanta treasure!

961 Amsterdam Ave NE
Atlanta, GA 30306
Phone : (404) 874 -1411
joy@malirestaurant.com

Sushi Avenue, Atlanta (Decatur)

2006-06-15T17:53:00.000-07:00

One of my FAVORITE sushi restaurants in town (I STILL think Ma Li has the best sushi in town). Sushi Avenue is a great little restaurant in Decatur (there are two locations, both in Decatur). My favorite thing on the menu is the pork Gyoza (dumplings), which are pan fried. Also, the bento box is REALLY good and cheap! Comes with a soup and salad. With the Teriyaki lunch special, you get a California Roll, chicken or beef teriyaki, rice, and a little pice of chicken that looks like a chiken tender that sits in a red chili sauce....SO GOOD!!!!! My friend Miles LOVES to get the Avocado roll along with his teriyaki lunch special, and we usually share the Gyoza.
You can sit at the sushi bar, or at a table or booth.

Very cozy, quaint, good food, service is pretty fast (if they're not too busy, which they usually aren't during lunch), and the bento box is $7...can't beat that!

Sushi Avenue Japanese Restaurant
308 W Ponce De Leon Ave Ste C
Decatur, GA 30030-2435
(404) 378-8448
Map and Directions

Babette's Cafe, Atlanta

2006-06-14T12:55:00.000-07:00

Last night, I had the pleasure of having dinner with a friend at Babette's Cafe. The food was fantasic! As a starter, I had the Keftethes, which are mint seasoned meatballs with yogurt sauce (VERY tasty!). For the entree, I enjoyed the delicious Grilled Flat Iron Steak Salad
(with olives, melted peppers, tomatoes, french green beans and cucumbers with a lemon vinaigrette). Even though it was a salad, it was rather tasty, and the lemon vinaigrette was very light and complimented the other ingredients of the salad very well. I'd definitely go back!
They also have Sunday Brunch. See Menu

Meager Beginnings

2006-06-14T12:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know, I eat out WAY too much, but that's about all there is to do here in Atlanta (besides shopping). I've decided to compile a list of my favorite restaurants here in the city (and from my travels too!) and give my humble $.02 about how I think the food is, and also to be able to make suggestions about what to eat and what NOT to eat there.