Hi, I'm flying up to surprise my boyfriend for his birthday next month, and want to take him to a really nice, very romantic restaurant (price is of secondary concern). I have researched a lot and was looking at two locations thusfar: 1789 or Citronelle. Any comments on these two or any other suggestions? He's your all-American boy, so i was leaning towards 1789, but wasn't sure. . . Thanks so much!!!

It depends on the food style and decor you want. 1789 is old-style, traditional somewhat heavier food, more heavy colonial decor, almost like something out of Williamsburg. The food is something a guy could sink his teeth into if he's that kind of guy. And it is romantic, esp. the lighting. Citronelle is nouveau and much lighter in style and decor, and very very good. The dining room is not as romantic as 1789, but IMO the food is better- again that is personal preference.
If he's an all American guy, you probably can't go wrong at 1789. It's very old style traditional D.C. and very good and filling.

I am going to I Ricchi w/my dinner club next week and can let you know about it then!

We had a wonderful, wonderful meal at Obelisk (at Dupont Circle). It is relatively small and quite intimate. Service was excellent. But more importantly, the food was just fabulous! We haven't had such a great meal for a very long time.

Obelisk
2029 P St., NW
Washington, DC
202-872-1180

for my bday last year, I had a very romantic evening with Hubby at the Equinox, an amazing restaurant about a block away from the White House - they have their own website. It was the most amazing meal I had ever eaten and was very romantic as well. Then we walked two blocks per the recommendation of the restaurant for a nightcap at the bar at the Jefferson Hotel - another amazing place. I would highly recommend both. It was one of the nicest bdays I had ever had.

We are going to 1789 for my birthday this evening. I understand you need to request the downstairs dining room for romantic...the upstairs is supposed to be pretty plain. If you decide on this restaurant book ahead as it gets very busy this time of year.

The equinox has excellent food but I don't care for the restaurant look...it was a prior burger king that they did not do much with when they converted.

Thank you all so much for all the wonderful suggestions! Obelisk is unfortunately closed for monday (when i will be surprising him). . . i think i've narrowed it down to 1789, Galileo, and Citronelle. . . thanks so much again for everything!