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1. Zaytinya
701 9th St NW, Pepco Building, Washington, DC 20001 · 202-638-0800
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DOWNTOWN. With its stark white walls, high ceilings and dramatic glass facade, Zaytinya has emerged as a popular after-work gathering place. Hot and cold mezze ("middle-of-the-day" meals) enrich the dining scene with contemporary Eastern Mediterranean fare – for example, lamb with hummus, and spiced sirloin with dry fruit compote. For more substantial appetites, the kebab platter or braised lamb shank with eggplant does nicely. An added perk: Their wine list focuses almost exclusively on Greek, Turkish and Lebanese selections. METRO: Gallery Place/Chinatown
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2. 2 Amys
3715 Macomb St NW, Washington, DC 20016 · 202-885-5700
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WOODLEY PARK. This pizzeria stays busy, but don't let that keep you away. While 2 Amys' wood-fired pies are topped with everything from eggplant confit to cockles, their authentic Neapolitan pizzas steal the show. Recognized by the Italian government as Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC), Neapolitan pizza is prepared using soft-grain flour, fresh yeast, fresh oregano and basil, Italian plum tomatoes and mozarella di bufala, and 2 Amys proudly displays its Verace Pizza Napoletana Association certification. Hands down, one of the best – and tastiest – deals in the capital city. METRO: Cleveland Park
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TENLEYTOWN. If the name evokes images of fried catfish and grilled bear, be prepared to think again. Despite the lodge-inspired decor, owner-chef Carole Greenwood's intimate dining spot caters to a sophisticated clientele, and her creativity in the kitchen knows few bounds. One night you might enjoy a thick, juicy sirloin with sweet potato fries; the next time out, her signature pan-roasted mussels might call to you. The wine list features a wide range of affordable European imports. METRO: Tenleytown/American University
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4. Belga Café
514 Eighth St SE, Washington, DC 20003 · 202-544-0100
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CAPITOL HILL. Occupying a renovated storefront just minutes from the Capitol, Belga delivers the gastronomical artistry and charm of a Brussels sidewalk café. Though the kitchen adds Asian splashes to their "Eurofusion" dishes, many of the menu items hold true to Belgian culinary traditions, as evidenced by delightful main courses like Flemish beef stew with Belgian fries, and mussels with white beer. As for drink, six Belgian beers are on tap, including Leffe Blonde and Brune, Hoegaarden and Stella Artois; dozens of others are available by the bottle. METRO: Eastern Market
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GEORGETOWN. Sleek and modern, this restaurant sits just a stone's throw from Washington Harbor, and the waterside location makes it a favorite haunt of Georgetown U students and faculty. Chef-owner Aulie Bunyarataphan's dumplings steal the show, with the Foie Gras N' Shrimp and Winter Squash Potstickers among the more creative selections. Tasty rice and noodle bowls make appearances, as do a handful of choices simply dubbed "Not Your Ordinary Joes" – for example, grilled five-spice filet mignon and coriander-crusted Maple Leaf Farm duck. Close proximity to the nearby Loews Cinema makes Bangkok Joe's a popular place to gather before or after catching a flick. METRO: Foggy Bottom
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6. Ceiba
701 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005 · 202-393-3983
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DOWNTOWN. The sizzling cuisines of South and Central America have invaded the nation's capital, and, thankfully, the DC dining scene will never be the same. A decor of Yucatan stone, mosaics and furniture fashioned of Brazilian wood takes traditional elements and gives them a modern slant. Ceviches, of course, lead the menu, and it's wise to go ahead and sample the yellowfin tuna or Yucatan shrimp. From there, look to such flavorful courses as Brazilian-braised pork shank with black beans and rice, Bahian-style boullabaisse, or jerk barbequed young chicken with rice, peas and sautéed callaloo. METRO: Metro Center
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7. BlackSalt
4883 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington, DC 20007 · 202-342-9101
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THE PALISADES. Founded by Jeff and Barbara Black, this market-restaurant eschews fanfare, much to the delight of the affluent neighborhood folks who deem themselves regulars. Once you've made your way past the spectacular array of fresh fish and seafood displayed on the retail end, you'll find friendly waitstaff eager to welcome you to your cozy booth or table. From there, the tough choices start: Will it be fried Ipswich clams or braised baby octopus? Mahi-mahi with polenta or French bourride? You really can't go wrong.
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8. Sake Club
2635 Connecticut Ave, Washington, DC 20008 · 202-332-2711
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WOODLEY PARK. Stylish, tasteful and refined, this restaurant gives those living on DC's north side a place where they can sport their trendiest threads while savoring upscale Japanese fare and any of the 45 imported sake selections. The dinner menu lists, of course, sashimi, maki and nigiri; however, those seeking something beyond the raw can go for grilled selections like beef, chicken or pork bulgogi barbeque and Chilean sea bass with saikyo miso kinko sauce. A delightful option for large groups is the tapas menu, whose eclectic mix of dishes includes octopus ceviche and grilled flounder fin. METRO: Woodley Park
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GEORGETOWN. Casual yet stylishly European, this restaurant-bakery manages to stay below the city's culinary radar despite its creative fare and the staff's sterling reputation. That's just fine with regulars, who pride themselves on keeping close Leopold's many joys. Fabulous main dishes like bratwurst and traditional Austrian schnitzel are more than worth the indulgence. Lighter alternatives include salads, gourmet sandwiches and hot and cold soups. Cheese strudel and other homemade pastries justifiably draw acclaim as well, thanks to perfect baking and a rich boost of fresh fruit, nuts, vanilla and caramel.
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10. Café 15
806 15th St NW, Sofitel Lafayette Square Hotel, Washington, DC 20005 · 202-730-8800
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DOWNTOWN. Not your typical French restaurant, upscale Café 15 prides itself on consistency and presentation. The contemporary menu features only the freshest seasonal ingredients for both à la carte and prix fixe options. Each is prepared and presented with tasteful panache – for example, roasted halibut with toasted gingerbread crust is accompanied by zucchini tagliatelle with white wine and pepper emulsion. The stunning dining room features brightly colored artwork set against a backdrop of rich jewel tones. The well-selected wines reflect the Café's high standards and are fairly priced, making this elegant affair one of the best deals in DC. Three-course tasting menu: $46; five-course tasting menu: $83. METRO: McPherson Square
Looking for a restaurant? We've explored the options, checked with critics, and pounded the pavement to offer only the best. Recommendations come complete with contact information and a brief description highlighting the important features of the restaurant. Fit our choices to your mood, or let us guide your tastes. You'll likely find a few places that not even locals know about.
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