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Washington has long benefited from a constant infusion of different cultures, making it a stellar culinary host for visitors and transplants from around the world. But recent years have made the fifth or sixth banana of American haute cuisine into a foodie town in its own right. You can find almost any cuisine here, from Salvado
Washington has long benefited from a constant infusion of different cultures, making it a stellar culinary host for visitors and transplants from around the world. But recent years have made the fifth or sixth banana of American haute cuisine into a foodie town in its o
Washington has long benefited from a constant infusion of different cultures, making it a stellar culinary host for visi
Washington has long benefited from a constant infusion of different cultures, making it a stellar culinary host for visitors and transplants from around the world. But recent years have made the fifth or sixth banana of American haute cuisine into a foodie town in its own right. You can find almost any cuisine here, from Salvadoran to Ethiopian, despite the lack of true ethnic neighborhoods in the city. You can now also sample cooking from some of the country’s hottest new chefs, find already established celebrity chefs who have just made their D.C debuts, and sip craft cocktails on par with some of the world's best.
Although most neighborhoods lack a unified culinary flavor, make no mistake: D.C. is a city of distinctive areas, each with its own style. Chinatown, for example, is known for chic small plates of various origins. You'll find Japanese noodle shops next to Mexican taquerias and Indian bistros. These spots wax and wane on the popularity scale with each passing season; it's worth taking a stroll down the street to see what's new. Downtown, you'll find many of the city's blue-chip law firms and deluxe, expense-account restaurants, as well as stylish lounges, brewpubs, and upscale eateries that have sprung up to serve the crowds that attend games at the Verizon Center.
Wherever you venture forth in the city, there are a few trends worth noting: artisanal cocktails, charcuterie-and-cheese plates, and back-to-basics new American cuisine are in vogue. You'll find tapas-style portions pervasive, whether you're at a Greek, Asian, or American restaurant. High-end restaurants in town also have begun to add bar menus with smaller plates that are much less expensive than their entrées, but created with the same finesse.
Though Italian, French, and fusion spots continue to open at a ferocious pace, Washingtonians are always hungry to try something new, whether it's Chinese smoked lobster, fiery Indian curry, or crunchy and addictive Vietnamese spring rolls.
Adventurous wine lists, stellar service, and inventive presentations that don't scrimp on the spice—this Indian kitchen is a local legend. A warm, romantic atmosphere means couples snatch up reservations weeks in advance. The menu highlights unique tandooris and grills, from lamb to chicken, and popular vegetarian dishes such as the fried spinach leaves with sweet yogurt sauce called palak chaat. Vegetarians and vegans will be pleased with their extensive veggie-forward menu. There's another location in the West End near Georgetown.
633 D St. NW, Washington, District of Columbia, 20004, USA
Rasika, an award-winning restaurant in West End, is one of the pioneers in Indian fine dining in Washington, D.C. With its sleek bar and modern dining room, Rasika is always buzzing with patrons. From popular dishes like chicken tikka masala to creative inspirations like silky glazed cod and truffled minced-lamb kebabs, chef Vikram Sunderam knows how to take diners on a virtual trip to India. A popular spot amongst the D.C. elite, don't be surprised if you run into a famous politician or journalist.
1190 New Hampshire Ave. NW, Washington, District of Columbia, 20037, USA
For a taste of Indian street food, head to Bindaas, a casual restaurant near George Washington University. Owned by the same restaurant group as Rasika, you will find high-quality Indian food in a more relaxed setting. Fans of Bindaas go for kathi rolls, made with a thin crepe-like shell and filled with classics such as chicken tikka masala and paneer (spinach and cheese stew). You can also find a wide selection of chaat (savory snacks) and pao buns with stew fillings.
2000 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, District of Columbia, 20006, USA
One block from the White House, the beautiful Bombay Club serves classic and modern Indian fare in a refined setting. On the menu are unusual seafood specialties and a variety of vegetarian dishes, but the real standouts are the aromatic curries. The bar, furnished with rattan chairs and dark wood paneling, serves hot hors d'oeuvres at cocktail hour. You can enjoy live piano music by the bar from Thursdays to Saturdays.
815 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, District of Columbia, 20006, USA
The menu at this traditional Indian restaurant features a few surprises, including an inventive shrimp and coconut masala, a local favorite. The dining room has an elegant feel, with long drapes, white tablecloths, and fine crystal. There's also an extensive Indian wine and beer list.
4909 Wisconsin Ave., Washington, District of Columbia, 20016, USA
A mix of old and new, Karma Modern Indian offers a fresh perspective on Indian cuisine. The dining room is bright, stylish, and colorful, which pairs well with its beautifully plated dishes and cocktails. Executive chef Ajay Kumar combines traditional Indian spices with nontraditional ingredients such as octopus, lobster, and quinoa for a fresh take on the long-established perception of Indian cuisine.
611 I St. NW, Washington, District of Columbia, 20001, USA
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