Betsy

Who is Betsy?  Well, it is actually the new intimate, open-air rooftop serving American fare and a cocktail program focused on all things gin atop Belga Cafe on Barracks Row. Brought to you Chef Bart Vandaele and team, Betsy is a hidden gem that serves brunch, dinner and happy hour in a lovely summer patio setting. Inspired by the chickens in Chef Bart Vandaele’s backyard, Betsy is the name of his favorite in the flock. No reservations are accepted - just walk in (entrance located in back alley behind Belga's main entrance; follow the chicken footprints!).  Closest Metro is Eastern Market.

Keith and I ate at the Betsy on a hot summer evening.  We decided to eat lightly, and just order a few of the small plates to share.  We enjoyed the Buffalo Chicken Croquettes served with blue cheese and hot sauce;  Mac & Cheese with lots of black truffle Pecorino cheese; the Deviled Eggs; and the Ocean Candies - grilled scallops with green peas & asparagus.

The food was perfect for summer and we washed it all down with a gin & tonic.  I adored the classic Hendrick's served with Fever Tree Naturally Light Tonic and sliced cucumber.  Keith liked a couple different versions - one with lemon and the other with grapefruit.

All in all we had a nice little dinner on the colorful rooftop, and could see how this small oasis would be great to dine with friends.  I hope it stays open through Fall, as I think the cooler temps would make the atmosphere a bit more tolerable.

Total Rating: 3.73
Food: 3.5, Price: 4, Service: 3.5, Ambience: 4, Accessibility: 5