701 Restaurant

701 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004-2608 202-393-0701

Description: DOWNTOWN. Fusions of cuisines are presented in a glamorous, upbeat atmosphere at this popular bar and restaurant, known for its vast selections of caviar and vodka. Conveniently located for a pre-theater meal, the establishment boasts an affordable fixed price menu for early crowds. The sophisticated decor has an artsy edge, as do the dishes: barbecue duck strudel, blue marlin on black bean puree, and Iowa corn and shrimp chowder with sherry and chives. Large windows offer panoramic views of Pennsylvania Avenue. METRO: Archives
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Bobby Van's Steakhouse

809 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005 202-589-0060

Description: DOWNTOWN. Amid rich colors and polished woodwork, you'll find some of DC's best steaks. Celebrated for its porterhouse, Bobby Van's attracts folks who have access to sturdy expense accounts. They come for prime cuts of meat, shipped to the restaurant and dry-aged on the premises, imparting both flavor and tenderness. Other popular options include the New York strip, short ribs, braised lamb shank, and lobster. While the company's paying, check out the substantial wine list, and take note of daily specials, which showcase a few unexpected treats.
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Butterfield 9

600 14th St, Washington, DC 20005 202-289-8810

Description: DOWNTOWN. This elegant hotspot, housed in a turn-of-the-century department store, sports clean-lined decor and a trendy clientele. Its New American cuisine takes a global approach, culling techniques and inspiration from many cultures. Pan-seared filet mignon is succulent, paired with savory crepes and roasted shallots. Squid stuffed with mushrooms and chorizo sausage creates a nice juxtaposition of flavors and textures. You'll also be intrigued by chicken with fig sauce and red snapper calzones. The wine list is superb, and dessert offerings run from baked Alaska to lemon-blueberry trifle.
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Caucus Room

401 9th St NW, Market Square North, Washington, DC 20009 202-393-1300

Description: DOWNTOWN. They may not always agree in Congress, but Democrats and Republicans find common ground at this plush establishment. The menu, steeped in the traditions of Continental cuisine, knows how to adapt to the times. It updates Lobster Thermidor with a brandy bechamel sauce, sans parmesan, and gives the rack of lamb added kick with goat cheese and garlic. Along with steaks and chops, diners find coq au vin, Dover sole, and grilled swordfish on shaved fennel. A wine list with 300-plus vintages accommodates most any request and may even lead to agreements that reach beyond dinner.
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Charlie Palmer Steak

101 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001 202-547-8100

Description: CAPITOL HILL. Large windows provide excellent views of Capitol Hill at this downtown steakhouse. The upscale restaurant features private dining areas, along with a rooftop terrace that's perfect for special functions. The menu offers a variety of meats, game, fish, and fowl. Perhaps most interesting, however, is the place's wine repository ­ it features more than 3500 bottles of American wines, hailing from every single US state. Smart casual or business dressy attire. Reservations accepted.
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Chef Geoff's

1301 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004 202-464-4461

Description: DOWNTOWN. Set across from the Warner Theatre, this New American bistro derives energy from the young professionals who frequent it. It also boasts a comfortable feel and a creative menu. Among the dishes you'll find are gourmet pizzas, almond-crusted salmon, shrimp and grits, and NY strip. Desserts deserve attention too, as proven by chocolate toffee bread pudding or autumn apple and cherry crisp. The wine list includes vintages available by the glass. Outdoor patio dining during warm weather. Three-course theatre special every day from 4pm to 6:30pm for only $25.95
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Coeur de Lion

926 Massachusetts Ave NW, Henley Park Hotel, Washington, DC 20001 202-638-5200

Description: DOWNTOWN. The Henley Park's Coeur de Lion boasts a stately dining room that meshes perfectly with the hotel's elegant atmosphere. Hundreds of gargoyles decorate the historic hotel's exterior, and the restaurant's interior is traditionally British. The restaurant offers three different venues: the main dining room serves new American cuisine, the parlor-like Wilkes Room presents an elegant afternoon tea, and the relaxed Blue Bar features small plates and drinks. Dressy attire. Reservations suggested for lunch and dinner.
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DC Coast

1401 K St NW, Tower Building, Washington, DC 20005-3401 202-216-5988

Description: DOWNTOWN. Into people-watching? DC Coast's wall of windows overlooks busy 14th Street. As the name suggests, seafood is the specialty. Chef Jeff Tunks is famous for his Chinese-style smoked lobster, and pan-roasted rockfish with polenta cake and lobster corn broth. Popular terrene dishes include grilled NY strip with andouille hash, and marinated free-range chicken with roasted fingerling potatoes and grilled ramps. Portions are sizable, and the ambience is bright and lively. As for finding the place: Keep an eye out for the mermaid marking the entrance to this Beaux Arts-style dining room. METRO: McPherson Square
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District ChopHouse & Brewery

509 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004 202-347-3434

Description: DOWNTOWN. Housed in a refurbished warehouse, this old-fashioned steak house serves all sorts of steaks ­ Delmonico, NY strip, porterhouse, and sirloin among them. The savory cuts are accompanied by such sides as creamy mashed potatoes and sweet cornbread. Desserts are delicious, too, as Key lime pie and mountain berry flan demonstrate. The steak house is also a microbrewery, and from vats on the upper level come a variety of excellent house brews. Near the MCI Center. Casual dress.
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Dubliner

520 N Capitol St NW, Phoenix Park Hotel, Washington, DC 20001 202-737-3773

Description: Probably the city's favorite Irish pub, this long-standing institution has a legion of faithful followers. Part of the reason they return to the cozy restaurant, with its dark wood and stained glass, is the live Irish music and energetic atmosphere. The other is the food. For a taste of the Isles, try the Irish country breakfast with eggs, sausage, potatoes, tomatoes and soda bread. For something a little lighter, opt for French toast, omelets, eggs Benedict, waffles, or eggs and bacon. You also have the choice of soups, salads, appetizers (try the spinach-artichoke dip!), fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and a list of desserts. With all these choices, there's no reason you should go away hungry.
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Georgia Brown's

950 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005 202-393-4499

Description: DOWNTOWN. This upscale restaurant attracts a wide mix of politicos and world citizens longing for South Carolina's Lowcountry cooking. Barbecued salmon fillet, shrimp and grits, Frogmore stew (seafood, no frogs) and Southern fried chicken are menu classics that come with cornbread, biscuits and lots of animated conversation. Vegetarians find warm embrace in meatless dishes like sautéed black-eyed pea cakes. Fried catfish, biscuit-battered French toast, country ham with gravy and other brunch delights also gain wide approval. Some say that this type of food is a bit heavy ­ others simply nod and butter another biscuit. METRO: McPherson Square
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Johnny's Half Shell

400 N Capitol St NW, Washington, DC 20001 202-737-0400

Description: DUPONT CIRCLE. Inspired by New Orleans' down-home, spicy cooking, this restaurant features fantastic seafood dishes innovatively fashioned by chef Ann Cashion. Pristine shellfish from nearby waters are specialties, as evidenced by Chesapeake seafood stew, brimming with seafood, spices, and savory broth. Fresh crab is also tops, served simply and unadorned with a side dish of corn pudding. Great for lunch as well as dinner, the menu features everything from sophisticated salmon dishes to gourmet hot dogs and oyster po'boys. The charming dining room provides a fitting backdrop for flavorful all-American cuisine.
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Morrison-Clark Historic Hotel & Restaurant

1015 L St NW, Washington, DC 20001 202-898-1200

Description: DOWNTOWN. This luxurious hotel, converted from two circa-1864 townhouses, offers exquisite service and genteel ambience. Along with laundry service and valet parking, guests can expect a restaurant, concierge, fitness center, and business services. Individual rooms are quiet and elegant, boasting antiques and soothing color schemes. They also feature television, dataport, climate control, mini-bar, hair dryer, and iron. Robes and turndown service are available as well. For a rewarding dining experience, try the inn's celebrated restaurant, which has received numerous national and local awards. 53 rooms. Parking $25/day.
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Oceanaire Seafood Room

1201 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004 202-347-2277

Description: DOWNTOWN. This large dining room feels like a masculine, clubby steakhouse, but it's really a seafood restaurant. The interior boasts red leather booths, curving architectural details, and globe lamps. The menu is packed with all manner of treats ­ salmon, haddock, sea bass, rockfish, oysters, tuna, and more. Knowledgeable servers can advise you about the day's specials, which can be grilled, broiled, or Cajun-spiced. Smart casual dress. Reservations recommended.
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Old Ebbitt Grill

675 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005 202-347-4800

Description: DOWNTOWN. Since 1856, this landmark bar and restaurant has served DC's power class. Rich with furnishings, including Teddy Roosevelt's hunt trophies, the place never fails to satisfy. Known for its American cuisine, the saloon has a fantastic raw bar with seven types of oysters. It also makes a terrific burger, along with reuben sandwiches, chicken wings, and a more complete dinner menu featuring homemade pastas, fresh steaks, seafood (including the signature trout parmesan) and seasonal vegetables. Moderate prices. METRO: Metro Center
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Posh

730 11th St, Washington, DC 20001 202-393-0975

Description: DOWNTOWN. While the design of this restaurant and lounge may recall the glory of days-gone-by, the kitchen turns out surprisingly modern eats like "lamb lollipops" and grilled sesame teriyaki swordfish.
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PS 7's

777 I St NW, Washington, DC 2001 202-742-8550

Description: DOWNTOWN. A stone cocktail bar and a color scheme of bright blue and chocolate brown characterize the stylish interior of this fun restaurant. The intriguing menu features creations such as the trio of veal and sautéed monkfish medallions. Desserts come in two sizes ­ little sins and bigger sins ­ and range from mini doughnut with dipping sauce to everything apples (apple French toast, ice cream and apple Julienne). Wine available by the half-glass, glass or bottle.
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Restaurant at The Morrison-Clark Inn

1015 L St NW, Washington, DC 20001 202-898-1200

Description: DOWNTOWN. The golden interior of this inn's dining room is punctuated with soft-hued floral arrangements and gilt mirrors. Elegant details extend to the food as well. Influenced by Southern comfort cooking, the seasonal menu features only the best ingredients and options. Among the entrees you may find are pan-seared grouper accompanied by crawfish pierogi, and country ham or beef pot pie with mushrooms and red wine sauce. When the weather is mild, you'll want to dine on the brick-paved terrace amid the sunshine and potted plants.
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The Capital Grille

601 Pennsylvania Ave NW, at 6th St, Washington, DC 20004 202-737-6200

Description: DOWNTOWN. At The Capital Grille you'll find superb food in a dramatic dining room where you can sink into a burnished leather chair, order a Manhattan and interact with the powerful Washington elite. The discreet service is flawless, the menu is as impressive as the atmosphere, and the dry-aged steaks are considered some of the best in the city. The 22-oz. Delmonico is flavorful and cooked to your specification, and for those whose palates lean more to the sea, fresh seared salmon with mustard sauce just might do the trick. The wine list has collected Wine Spectator's coveted "Best of" award. METRO: National Gallery
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Willard Room

1401 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Willard Inter-Continental Hotel, Washington, DC 20004 202-637-7440

Description: DOWNTOWN. A superb hotel restaurant, the Willard Room features exquisite Nouveau American and French cuisine. Characterized by complex flavor combinations and delightful presentation, the seasonal menu features only the freshest ingredients. Notable dishes include chilled tomato soup and grilled halibut. The dining room's elegant ambiance is enhanced by a bi-level design and warm oak paneling. Dressy attire. METRO: Metro Center
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