Bistro Italiano

Last date I was here: 09/09/2010

Restaurant: Bistro Italiano

Location: Capitol Hill

Total Rating: 3.25
Food: 3, Price: 4, Service: 3, Ambience: 3, Accessibility: 4

Summary: Located near Union Station in a row-house, Bistro Italiano offers the neighborhood classic Italian dishes such as lasagna and linguine with clams as well as fresh pizzas and sub sandwiches. Closest Metro is Union Station.

Keith and I went to dinner here after hearing many raves about it's food and low prices. We were seated by the window in the almost empty dining room. Most of the business came from people stopping by to either place an order to pick up or pick up one they had already called ahead for. And what were they all picking up? Pizza! Every single customer that came in to pick up, had ordered pizza. Should have been the red flag to us, but we opted for a more traditional meal. We ordered an odd appetizer to share - with a French flair, the baked brie with roasted garlic was gooey and creamy. Our server was quiet but attentive. Our entrees were the perfect size, not too big nor too small. Although I did not care for mine as much - the flavors were just a little off - Keith seemed to enjoy his. We should have gotten something with their red sauce. The overall verdict - we appreciate the attempt and the low prices but would only come back to try the lasagna and pizza.

What I ate:

Baked Brie with Roasted Garlic Bulb

served with fresh sliced warm Italian bread

Clams Vongole

served in a garlic white wine sauce over linguine

Plus Keith ate:

Fettuccine Florentine with Chicken Picata

boneless breast of chicken in an Alfredo sauce with spinach