Monday, November 21, 2011

Culinary Tour of Washington, DC

Do you have a trip planned to our Nation’s Capitol?  Besides visiting all the famous monuments and museums, Washington, DC should not be overlooked for its food.  With its location in the mid-Atlantic, DC offers a diverse melting pot of cultures and cuisine.  Top chefs such as Jose Andres and Eric Ripert have a large culinary presence here and the restaurant scene is continuously booming. 
I am often asked by people visiting DC where to eat.  I was recently asked by a fellow blogger to write a guest post for her travel blog, Maiden ExpeditionMaiden Expedition endeavors to bring together women across the world by providing information on various getaways for girls, travel alone tips and real life experiences.

Below are a few places I usually suggest not only for their great food and service, but also for their proximity to main attractions and the ambience that the city has to offer.
Only 3 blocks from the White House and across the street from the Warner Theatre, Chef Geoff's Downtown happily serves delicious contemporary American Cuisine in the heart of the city.  Enjoy lunch here after touring all the monuments. 
B. Smith's features a combination of Cajun, Creole and Southern cuisine. Located in Washington, DC's Historic Union Station, B. Smith's grand Beaux Arts style dining room with its 30-foot ceilings, period chandeliers and turn of the century elegance, has been called one of the most beautiful dining rooms in America.  They also offer a brunch menu that is a pleasant option.
After you visit the zoo, try a meal at Dino in Cleveland Park.  This rustic Italian restaurant has been rated one of the best in DC and features a remarkable wine list.  Service is top notch in a casual dining environment. They also offer cheese platters, wine pairings and nightly corking specials.  Save room for dessert!
Tony and Joe's Seafood is located at the Georgetown Waterfront and serves tempting dishes such as Maryland crab cakes, fresh lobster and shrimp scampi. With spectacular views of the Potomac River, Kennedy Center, Washington Monument, Roosevelt Island, and the Key Bridge, Tony and Joe's is an excellent place to grab a drink and have appetizers on a nice summer day.  I like to sit out on the patio and watch all the boats come into the marina.
For a trendy and fun night out, try Zaytinya near Gallery Place.  Serving Mediterranean mezzes (small dishes – like tapas) and various Greek and Turkish wines, Zaytinya is a fun alternative, but reservations are recommended as it tends to get crowded quickly.  Inside dining is great for a group of friends, family or a romantic dinner for two.  They also offer patio seating during the summer months.
Located in the Hotel Monaco, Poste Moderne Brasserie is a testament to exquisite foods, prepared amidst a backdrop of United States history. Set in the original 1841 General Post Office, Poste has become a modern-day favorite dining destination of local foodies and a leader in sustainable and eco-friendly practices.  Nearby the Spy Museum and Portrait Gallery, Poste is a great place for a celebration dinner or large groups.
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