5. Ici Urban Bistro

My wife and I walked up to this café from the street after arriving in DC not 2 hours prior. Rarely have we been treated to such an experience of good food, good service, and overall good value. The wait staff made us so welcome and comfortable. The chef provided us a complimentary salmon/goat cheese appetizer that was delicious. All of our needs were attended to and we spent about 3 hours at this restauraunt wishing the time would not end. The presentation of food stimulates the senses from the moment you see it until you savor the last bites. It is combination of visual, tactile, colors, smells, tastes, and a high degree of service that set this place apart. Maybe our night was just magical but we can't stop talking about it.

Very good food and a nice space. I would probably rank this as 4 stars except the prices are a bit in the stratosphere. But if you're dining on someone's expense account, go for it.