Hi...a group of three ladies (20's-early 30's) will be visiting D.C. this weekend and staying at the Hotel Madera in Dupont Circle.

We are celebrating a birthday during this trip and would like some dining and nightlife advice.

First, the birthday girl loves Asian food. We'd love to treat her to dinner at a great place. Can anyone recommend an upscale Asian restaurant for us? Mid-range price would be best.

Second, what are some of the best cafes and coffeeshops in the Dupont/Foggy Bottom area? We'd love to be able to find one where we can sit out on a patio or sidewalk and do some people watching with our lattes.

Finally, we plan on hitting some martini bars/lounges during our stay. The problem is that none of us are interested in the velvet rope and giant cover charge scene. We are not so much looking for dance clubs - we'd prefer a quieter place where we can chill to music that we can talk over and enjoy some martinis and mojitos, but with a hip decor and menu. Anything out there fit our bill?

Thanks in advance...any opinions will be greatly appreciated.

Hi Elizabeth! Some ideas for Asian:

Raku, at 1900 Q St. is a Washingtonian magazine "100 best", see www.washingtonian.com for reviews. I also like Mie N Yu in Georgetown - good food and a fun decor.

For martini bars/lounges, Adams Morgan has lots of fun places. Close to Dupont, the 18th St Lounge is a fun hang out place, with an outdoor deck and couches to sit on. It doesn't have a sign, but don't let that discourage you. It's address is 1212 18th St. On the weekends it might have a cover, I usually go for happy hour. Look for the non-descript door to the left of Mattress Discounters, the door leads up a flight of stairs to the bar.

Some places I like near Dupont (or not too far) to just go hang out with friends include the Topaz Bar on N St NW, Le Bar in the Sofitel Hotel on 15th St NW, and Firefly on NH Ave. In Georgetown, I like Cafe Milano, or if you like wine, try Mendocino Grille and Wine Bar.

Are you looking for anything specific with regards to Asian food?? Chinese? Japanese?? Korean? Thai??

Elizabeth,

Dinner at Rice: http://www.simplyhomedc.com/profile.html

There are a lot of coffee shops. One place for people watching is Kramerbooks. The best coffee, IMO, is at Java Green http://www.javagreen.net/
or at KARMA (19TH&I ST.).

Karma would also be a great place for evening drinks: laid back, great music, great martinis and the best mojitos in town. http://www.karmadc.com/

Hey everyone, thanks for the very helpful replies...they all sound like exactly what we are looking for.

Oh, and to answer BigJim's question....I guess we'd probably be looking more towards Chinese and Thai menus..or even a "fusion" type spot that offers all the different types.

Thanks...keep the great ideas coming.

Try Penang, just south of Dupont Circle

Steer clear of Raku for food in Dupont - a coworker had a roach in his soup.


A really unique bar is the one in Zola restaurant. Next to the Spy Museum the interior is right out of James Bond - very 60's. I would recommend it for people that want room to talk and not feel drowned out by music. (this is at the Gallery Place Metro - three stops from Dupont).

Another great bar that is only 4 blocks from Dupont is Bar Rouge at 16th and P. Cool interior.

A cool place to get drinks is Mie n Yu in Georgetown (check out the site). Very cool place.

designchica is right - I can't believe I forgot Zola's! I love that place. Zaytinya's is good also. And as far as my Raku suggestion, I've never had any insects in my food. LOL

Hi all...just wanted to report back and say "thanks" for all the expert advice.

We had a great weekend in D.C. and were able to try out some of your recommendations.

We absolutely loved Zola...the restaurant AND the bar! It had such a great atmosphere, and the food and drinks (especially the "Passion" - were fabulous!). I will definitely be back there next trip.

Just as a side note, the Hotel Madera was a really good choice - nice decor, friendly service (once they got to know you a bit!), and a good location. Also ate at Firefly for lunch and came back down for Happy Hour - some pretty unique drinks!

Thanks again.