Art and Soul

Art and Soul is located in the Liaison Hotel on New Jersey Ave NW near Union Station in Capitol Hill. This chic restaurant offers guests a setting in which to meet and connect, while enjoying “food for the soul” – food made with love and special attention. With celebrated two-time James Beard-Award winning Chef Art Smith as chef/owner, this 221-seat dining destination serves up fresh and modern regional cuisine with southern accents. Named for its nationally renowned chef and the genuine welcoming feeling guests experience when they walk through the doors, the cuisine at this DC restaurant will be presented with southern-style hospitality. Closest Metro is Union Station.

Incanto

Incanto takes great pride in serving sustainably grown and harvested produce, meats and seafood because they "aspire to leave the world better off for future generations and because food tastes better when its ingredients are the product of thoughtful stewardship."  Located in the Noe Valley of San Francisco, Incanto offers contemporary Italian fare with a daily changing menu that almost always includes one or two dishes featuring "odd cuts" and offal because "serving these parts of the animal honors the whole animal and helps preserve an important, yet increasingly overlooked, part of our culinary heritage."

Jaleo

Jaleo is a Spanish word meaning revelry, fun, and bustle and brings alive the spirit and flavors of Spain under the direction of famed chef José Andrés.  Jaleo in Penn Quarter offers an impressive assortment of tapas, the traditional small dishes of Spain, as well as savory paellas, superb sangrias and a fine selection of Spanish wines and Sherries in a festive, casual atmosphere.  Closest Metro is Archives/Naval Memorial.

ABC Cooking Show

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VOLT

Less than 50 miles from Washington, DC, Leesburg, Annapolis and Baltimore, VOLT is located in the heart of Frederick's nationally-renowned historic district - an architectural treasure trove of 18th and 19th Century buildings which house hundreds of specialty stores, antique shops, bed & breakfasts and restaurants. Exceptional dining awaits you at VOLT, where Executive Chef Bryan Voltaggio's seasonal entreés showcase classic flavor combinations prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Bourbon Steak

Bourbon Steak is a chic and contemporary DC steakhouse restaurant located just off the lobby of the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel in Georgetown.  Featuring the exquisite culinary delights of James Beard award-winning chef and internationally renowned restaurateur Michael Mina, the restaurant features contemporary American fare with a focus on seasonal ingredients.  Bourbon Steak is an extraordinary steak and seafood restaurant that showcases corn-fed, all-natural meats and line-caught seafood available both locally and worldwide. Closest Metro is Foggy Bottom.

Oyamel

Oyamel is among the award-winning dining concepts from José Andrés, chef/owner of ThinkFoodGroup, and combines Mexico’s rich regional diversity with the modern urban atmosphere of Mexico City. The liveliness of the dining room is matched by the creativity of the menu and cocktail list, featuring antojitos - Mexican small plates - ceviches and tacos, plus unique margaritas, and an impressive array of wines and tequilas.  Originally opened in 2004 in the Crystal City neighborhood of Arlington, Oyamel moved to its current home in the Penn Quarter in March of 2007.  Closest Metro is Archives - Naval Memorial.

Graffiato

"In June 2011, Chef Mike Isabella opened Graffiato, an Italian-inspired restaurant in the Chinatown neighborhood of Washington, DC. The 130-seat spot allows Chef Isabella to interact with guests while he crafts comforting dishes from seasonal produce and locally cured hams, hand-rolled pastas and marinated vegetable accoutrements.

Bobby's Burger Palace

"Inspired by Chef Bobby Flay's travels throughout America and love of the grill, Bobby's Burger Palace presents 10 signature burgers in a convenient casual setting. Each burger can be made to order with Certified Angus Beef, ground turkey, or chicken breast and served on a sesame seed bun.

America Eats Tavern

Last date I was here: 08/10/2011 

Restaurant: America Eats Tavern (http://www.americaeatstavern.com/)

Location: Penn Quarter

Total Rating: 2.9
Food: 3, Price: 2, Service: 3, Ambience: 3, Accessibility: 5


Summary: “At AMERICA EATS TAVERN, opened July 4th 2011, José Andrés applies his innovative style to an American restaurant; his first new restaurant concept in Washington since opening in Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Named after the Works Progress Administration (WPA) writers project of the 1930s, America Eats offers a new take on American classics and celebrate native ingredients and some long forgotten dishes, from burgoo to oysters Rockefeller.” Closest Metro is Archives-Naval Memorial.

Using the same space as the former popular Café Atlantico, this American project is slated to remain open until January 2012. With mixed reviews, it is most likely a good thing that this restaurant concept is only temporary. I met up with an old friend for lunch here and we were seated right away. The décor is simple with kitschy Americana and a slight over usage of red, white, and blue. We sat on the ground floor, where supposedly the more casual tavern menu is offered, while a more refined and elegant menu is featured on the second and third floors. Not sure if it was the lunch offerings, but the menu seemed a little limiting. When my friend asked for a bread substitution on her sandwich, the server immediately denied stating “it only comes that way.” When our sandwiches arrived, I thought they were flavorful and highlighted some fresh ingredients, however, they were tiny. I was worried I would leave still hungry – and that I did. The Reuben had only slivers of meat and was covered by a deconstructed salad of some sort with shaved cheeses and vegetables. My po’ boy featured 4 tiny oysters perched upon a small piece of baguette with sorry scraps of lettuce and tomato. The mustard sauce had kick with its chunks of jalapenos. Each sandwich came with a bag of potato chips, which normally I would pass up, but this time I devoured to fill my stomach. Overall, I appreciate Chef Andres’ attempt to meld the art with food – yet I much prefer the original restaurant and cuisine over this place. *Overall score amended after initial posting to reflect more accurate rating.

What I ate:

Oyster Po’ Boy

Frontera Grill

Last date I was here: 07/29/2011

Restaurant: Frontera Grill (http://www.rickbayless.com/restaurants/grill.html/)

Location: River North - Chicago

Total Rating: 4.5
Food: 5, Price: 4, Service: 4, Ambience: 4, Accessibility: 3

Summary: Frontera Grill is one of the acclaimed chef Rick Bayless’ restaurants in Chicago that “swings casual, like an American grill. But it also rollicks with a vibrant, boisterous, Mexican rhythm. Its walls radiate sun-baked colors. The paintings and sculptures leap to your eyes and make you laugh. Together they invite you to an ever-young fiesta. Frontera Grill uses beautiful ingredients, often organic and custom-grown, to bring to you the bold flavors and immediate freshness that jump off the tongue–just as it does in Mexico.” We arrived prepared to place our name on the long list and wait at the bar – and sure enough that was the standard procedure. We waited one hour with our house Margaritas amidst the crowd before being seated near the bar. The drinks were strong and we were very hungry, yet service was fairly quick. Our server explained each of the ceviches as they arrived – boy, were they fresh and tasty! The mix of citrus and spice flavors were so aromatic and delightful. The cheese in the little turnover style quesadillas was melted perfectly and the little pockets of heaven were just divine. The mole sauce on my enchiladas was a wonderful sweet and spicy combination, executed so well that any Mexican grandmother would be proud. Keith’s steak was cooked and seasoned exceptionally. Overall, this Mexican grill offers fine recognizable cuisine with a modern edge.

What I ate:

Trio, Trio, TrioSampling of three ceviches served with crispy tortilla chips
Fronterizo: Lime-marinated Hawaiian albacore with tomatoes,
olives, cilantro, green chile; on crispy tostaditas.
Coctel de Atun Tropical: Sashimi-grade Hawaiian yellowfin tuna,
avocado-tomatillo guacamole, tangy mango-grapefruit salsa.
Yucateco: Steamed Mexican blue shrimp & calamari,
lime, orange, habanero, avocado, jcama & cilantro.

Quesadillas CapitalinasMexico City-style corn masa turnovers stuffed with Samuels
locally handcrafted Jack cheese & fresh epazote. Guacamole to daubEnchiladas de Mole PoblanoHomemade tortillas rolled around Gunthorp free-range chicken,
doused with Mexicos most famous mole. Black beans

Plus Keith ate:

Carne Asada a la OaxaquenaCreekstone Natural Black Angus rib steak (marinated in spicy red chile & wood-grilled),
black beans, sweet plantains with sour cream, guacamole

graham elliot

Last date I was here: 07/28/2011

Restaurant: graham elliot (http://grahamelliot.com/)

Location: River North - Chicago

Total Rating: 4.1
Food: 4, Price: 4, Service: 5, Ambience: 4, Accessibility: 4

Summary: Specializing in whimsical reinterpretations of classical entrees, Chef Graham Elliot Bowles’ restaurant in Chicago offers diners four star “flare” while dining in a more casual and laid back atmosphere. No suits and ties here – rather hipsters with tattoos, faux-hawks, colorful spectacles, and/or Tom’s shoes man the floor. Eagerly and warmly greeting patrons as they arrive, the staff was excellent and always took time to explain each menu item or answer any questions. Offering items a la carte, or a choice between a 5 course, 10 course, or 15 course sampling. Since Chef Bowles is more popular these days with his current stint on tv’s “Masterchef” next to Chef Gordon Ramsay, we expected the place to be a bit more buzzing. However, it was kind of empty on this Thursday evening. We munched on some popcorn as we perused the menu and quickly decided on the 5 course tasting. Our server, Nancy, was superb and confirmed that the chef was able to substitute the meat items for me. As each course arrived on its artfully decorated plate, we were given an explanation and then allowed our eyes guide us through the science of the chef’s creation. The food was fun and incorporated fresh seasonal ingredients, yet I expected just a tad bit more on the innovation. For non-foodies, this would be a great introduction into trying more daring food – yet I was left wanting to see something a bit more out there other than a traditional Caesar salad or Jidori chicken. Nevertheless, we had an excellent meal and overall experience at graham elliot’s. We were even given the opportunity for a mini tour of the back kitchen - It was amazing! It was definitely clear that Chef Bowles prides his staff to treat the customers best – regardless if you are a foodie or not. I think other celebrity chefs should take a tip or two from this restaurant in terms of service.

What I ate:

Popcorn
with truffle butter, black pepper, and parmesan fluff

Consommé
compressed watermelon with mint leaf and jalapeno oil

Caesar Salad
gem lettuce, brioche twinkie, and white anchovy

Sweet Corn Soup
with spiny lobster, toasted coquito, and vanilla marshmallow

Canapé
sautéed calamari with brussel kimchi and red curry

Alaskan Halibut
with leek brandade, orange gel, and haricot vert

Jidori Chicken
served with fried okra, kohlrabi slaw, and country pate

Intermezzo
grape juice soda spritzer

Chocolate Cake
with root beer, port cherry, and birch caramel

Raspberry Shortbread Cookies

Plus Keith ate:

Bison steak
With baked beans, Texas onion, and chili salsa

Westend Bistro

Last date I was here: 08/21/2010

Restaurant: Westend Bistro (http://www.westendbistrodc.com/)

Location: Foggy Bottom

Total Rating: 4.45
Food: 5, Price: 4, Service: 4, Ambience: 3, Accessibility: 4


Summary: Located in the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, the Westend Bistro is superstar Chef Eric Ripert's first casual neighborhood American bistro. Open since 2007, the Westend Bistro provides a wonderful mix of culinary flavors of the Chesapeake, Provence and the French Riviera. Closest Metro Station is Foggy Bottom - GWU.


Our second experience for this summer's Restaurant Week, we had semi-high expectations to try Chef Ripert's food, especially with his current stint as judge on Top Chef DC. The restaurant itself is decorated modernly with deep red and brown tones, yet has the same boring personality of the typical hotel restaurant. Our server only assumed we were there for the RW tasting menu, and did her best to push extra drinks and appetizers on us. We did try the RW chardonnay, which was very buttery and paired well with my meal. The service was what was to be expected of a restaurant such as this, and the menu had an interesting mix of choices. Ingredients were fresh and the flavors were very strong and alive - of which I very much appreciated and enjoyed. Portions were just right and the overall evening was very nice. There were some other seafood items on the menu that caught our eyes, such as the grilled octopus and of course, the mussels. The food would bring me back, but the location not so much.  Make easy reservations to Westend Bistro on CityEats.


What I ate:

Tomato Consumme

with fresh heirloom tomatoes, feta and basil

Shrimp and Grits

with chorizo, garlic, scallion, and aleppo pepper

Vanilla Creme Brulee

Plus Keith ate:

Beef Tartare

with quail egg and hungarian relish, served with toasted bread

Flat Iron Steak

with a red wine bearnaise and truffled french fries

Profiteroles

cream puffs with a dark chocolate sauce