Dining in DC » Reston

Taste of Reston: June 15-16

Lisa Shapiro — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 14:54:51 +0000

The 22nd Annual Taste of Reston, Northern Virginia's largest outdoor food festival, produced by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, will take place Friday, June 15 and Saturday, June 16 on Market Street at the Reston Town Center. This year's event marking their 22nd year celebration, will feature more than 30 area restaurants, a full line-up of musical entertainment, a kid’s activity tent, and for the first time this year, a chef's demonstration stage. Best of all, admission to Taste of Reston is FREE, but Taste Tickets and Carnival Tickets are necessary to sample food or take a spin on your favorite ride. Taste Tickets are $1 per ticket or $20 for a sheet of 24 tickets! Each sample ranges from 1-5 tickets. Hours: FRI 3PM-11PM; SAT 12PM-11PM; CARNIVAL ONLY SUN 10AM-8PM. Avoid the lines and buy taste tickets online here.

DC Restaurant Week Best Bets Neighborhood Guide

Lisa Shapiro — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 03:51:36 +0000

As your friendly neighborhood DC Restaurant Week expert, this week I've already posted about this year's newcomers, restaurants offering live music, a listing of participating restaurants menus and extensions (still growing), and of course, my Top 20 Picks. While most hardcore foodies know the supremo spots in the area, some don't always know the good neighborhood joints where so many people are quietly devoted. It's possible that many of your most frequented spots are not participating in DC Restaurant Week, so below is a short list of some of my "Best Bets" for DC Restaurant Week by neighborhood. Disclaimer: I admit that there are a lot of neighborhood gems that I have never visited and thereby rely on folks like yourself who will share their finds. So, feel free to chime in about your faves.

Restaurants included in the DC Restaurant Week Top 20 Picks are marked with an *

Washington, DC Adams Morgan: Perry's Restaurant {Dinner only} 1811 Columbia Rd., NW (202) 234-6218 Capitol Hill: Art and Soul * {Lunch and Dinner} 415 New Jersey Ave., NW (202) 93-7777 Capitol Hill: Johnnys Half Shell {Lunch and Dinner} 400 N. Capitol St., NW, (202) 737-0400 Capitol Hill: Sonoma Restaurant and Wine Bar {Lunch and Dinner} 223 Pennsylvania Ave., NW (202) 544-8088 Cleveland Park: Ardeo+Bardeo {Dinner only} 3309 Connecticut Ave., NW (202) 244-6550 Cleveland Park: Dino * {Brunch / Lunch / Dinner} 3435 Connecticut Ave., NW, (202) 686-2966 Downtown: Acadiana * {Lunch and Dinner} 901 New York Ave., NW (202) 408-8848 Downtown: Adour * {Dinner only} 923 16th and K St., NW (202) 509-8000 Downtown: Bibiana * {Lunch and Dinner} 1100 New York Ave., NW (202) 216-9550 Downtown: Ceiba * {Lunch and Dinner} 701 14th St., NW 202) 393-3983 Downtown: Chef Geoff's Downtown * {Lunch and Dinner} 1301 Pennsylvania Ave., NW (202) 464-4461 Downtown: J&G Steakhouse * {Lunch and Dinner} 515 15th St., NW (202) 661-2440 Dupont Circle: Urbana {Brunch / Lunch and Dinner} 2121 P St., NW (202) 956-6650 Foggy Bottom: Circle Bistro {Lunch and Dinner} 1 Washington Circle (202) 293-5390 Foggy Bottom: Notti Bianche {Dinner only} 824 New Hampshire Ave., NW (202) 298-8085 Georgetown: Bistrot Lepic and Wine Bar {Lunch and Dinner} 1736 Wisconsin Ave., NW (202) 333-0111 Georgetown: Lounge at Citronelle, The * {Dinner only} 3000 M St., NW (202) 625-2150 H Street Corridor: Smith Commons {Dinner only} 1245 H St., NE (202) 396-0038 Logan Circle: Tosca * {Dinner only} 1112 F St., NW (202) 367-1990 NoMa:Todd Grays Watershed * {Lunch and Dinner} 1225 Fist St., NE (202) 408-4870 Penn Quarter: Co Co. Sala and Lounge * {Dinner only} 929 F St., NW (202) 347-4265 Penn Quarter: Graffiato * {Lunch and Dinner} 707 6th St., NW (202) 289-3600 Penn Quarter: Poste Brasserie * {Lunch and Dinner} 700 F St., NW (202) 783-6060 Penn Quarter: Rasika * {Lunch and Dinner} 633 D St., NW (202) 637-1222 Penn Quarter: SAX Restaurant * {Dinner only} 734 11th St., NW (202) 787-0101 West End: Westend Bistro by Eric Ripert * {Lunch and Dinner} 1190 22nd St., NW (202) 974-4900

Virginia

Alexandria: Jackson 20 * {Lunch and Dinner} 480 King Street (703) 842-2790 Alexandria: Vermilion {Lunch and Dinner} 1120 King Street (703) 684-9669 Ballston: Willow Restaurant * {Lunch and Dinner} 4301 N. Fairfax Drive (703) 465-8800 Clifton: Trummer's on Main * {Dinner only} 7134 Main Street (703) 266-1623 Crystal City: Farrah Olivia by Morou {Dinner only} 2250 B Crystal Dr. (703) 445-6571 Clarendon: Tallula * {Lunch and Dinner} 2761 Washington Blvd. (703) 778-5051 Reston: PassionFish * {Lunch and Dinner} 11960 Democracy Dr. (703) 230-3474 Tysons Corner: Chef Geoff's * {Lunch and Dinner} 8045 Leesburg Pike (571) 282-6003

Maryland

Bethesda / Chevy Chase: Redwood Restaurant and Bar {Lunch and Dinner} 7121 Bethesda Lane (301) 656-5515

Dining Deals exclusively thru DC Metro Magazine. No Coupons needed! 30% off DC’s Best Restaurants.

Lisa Shapiro — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 16:07:53 +0000

Start getting big discounts at your favorite D.C. restaurants by signing up today with VillageVines, a new members-only website offering preferred pricing and reservations at exclusive restaurants in Washington, DC. If you are unfamiliar, this is how VillageVines works:

Members sign up at VillageVines.com – for free
Members access a carefully curated selection of exclusive restaurants and book their reservations online through the Web site.
For a small $10 booking fee, you secure your exclusive pricing, between 25-30% off the entire check, including alcohol for your entire party (one member recently saved $186!)
You receive an email with your reservation details. When you show up for your reservation, simply remind the host / hostess that you made your booking through VillageVines.
No need to print out anything – the exclusive discount will automatically be applied to the bill -- no coupons, no phone calls and no hassles!

Save up to 30% at any of these DC premier restaurants: Restaurant 3 (Arlington) Village Bistro (Arlington) Bistro Bis (Capitol Hill) Sabores (Cleveland Park) Spices (Cleveland Park) Mio (Downtown) Againn (Downtown) Lima (Downtown) Panache (Downtown) Teatro Goldoni (Downtown) Vidalia (Downtown) Zentan (Downtown) Agora (Dupont Circle) Cafe Dupont (Dupont Circle) Levante’s (Dupont Circle) Sushi Taro (Dupont Circle) The Prime Rib (Foggy Bottom) Cabanas (Georgetown) Fahrenheit (Georgetown) il Canale (Georgetown) Menocino Grille (Georgetown) Mie N Yu (Georgetown) Peacock Cafe (Georgetown) Ristorante Piccolo Georgetown) Tony & Joe’s (Georgetown) Co Co. Sala (Penn Quarter) PS 7’s (Penn Quarter) Zengo (Penn Quarter) Againn Tavern (Rockville) Sou’Wester (Southwest) La Sandia (Tysons Corner) Juniper (West End) New restaurants added daily. Login now: www.dcmetromagazine.com/villagevines

Your Foodie Itinerary: To Do Events

Lisa Shapiro — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 01:56:27 +0000

How about a glass of wine to help chase away the Winter Blues nearly every day of the week? As seen in the NOW Guide DC (p. 74) Enjoy Half-Price Wine Nights where DC Area restaurants offer 1/2 on bottles:

Monday: Chef Geoff’s, Evo Bistro, Veritas Wine Bar, ZOLA, Dino, Boulevard Woodgrill, Cafe Deluxe, CrÃ¨me Cafe & Lounge
Tuesday: Restaurant 3, Brasserie Beck, Heritage India, Bistrot Lepic and Wine Bar
Wednesday: Evo Bistro, McFadden’s,
Saturday: Top of the Hill
Sunday: ZOLA, Dino, Clyde’s of Georgetown, Indique, Lia’s, Sonoma Wine Bar

Not sure if you're going to dig that wine? Try a new one! Many DC wine bars offer complimentary tastings. A Wine Tasting is the perfect introduction to the world of wine or to augment your current base of knowledge. Enjoy complimentary daily wine tastings at some of D.C.’s wine bars, markets or restaurants. Check out Charlie Adler's website, "Taste DC", book, and classes or, if you're really serious, check out the Washington Wine Academy to take it a step further.

Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar: Tuesdays 6-8 pm (1736 Wisconsin Ave. NW)
Cork Wine Bar: Tues-Wed 5-6 pm (1720 14th St. NW)
Cork Market: Mon-Thurs 5-7 pm; Fri-Sat 6-8PM; Sat. 3-6PM (1805 14th St NW)
Le Chat Noir Wine Lounge: Thursdays 6-8 pm (4907 Wisconsin Ave., NW)
Planet Wine: Mon-Fri 6 p.m.; Sat 1-5 pm (2000 Mt. Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA)
Screwtop: Wed-Thurs 6-8 pm (1025 North Fillmore St. Arlington, VA)

Special Events:

Sunday January 30: Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony at Sidamo (417 H St NE) Do you appreciate a nice hot cup of Joe? How about a new coffee experience on Sunday -- one with a little shot of culture? Bring the whole family and enjoy the oldest Coffee tradition in the world. Ethiopia's coffee ceremony is an integral part of their social and cultural life. An invitation to attend a coffee ceremony is considered a mark of friendship or respect and is an excellent example of Ethiopian hospitality. At Sidamo, the weekly Ethiopian coffee ceremony lasts only half-hour, but offers a glimpse into the traditions of a culture halfway around the world. Coffee holds a sacred place in their country -just the growing and picking process of coffee involves over 12 million Ethiopians and produces over two-thirds of the country's earnings. The best Ethiopian coffee may be compared with the finest coffee in the world. Free. February 1: Sugar and Champagne - the Washington Humane Society’s 10th annual dessert and champagne reception at the Ritz-Carlton (1150 22nd St NW) hosted by Chef Todd and Ellen Gray of Equinox Restaurant honors man’s best friend against animal cruelty. The popular Sugar and Champagne annual event will treat attendees to confections and savory entrees from some of DC’s best restaurants, including, Marcel’s, Restaurant Eve, The Source, Bastille, Kushi, Cuba Libre, Trummer’s On Main and ZENTAN among many other area restaurants, along with samplings from several of the City’s gourmet food trucks, including Red Hook Lobster, DC Slices, Capmac and DC Empanadas. Three of DC’s top mixologists such as Gina Chersevani, PS7; Simo Ahmadi, Equinox Restaurant; and Todd Thrasher, Restaurant Eve will be shaking and stirring and doing what they do best. Of course, there will be doggie biscuits at the Bark Bar for the furry attendees provided by the Barkley Square Gourmet Dog Bakery and Boutique. This sweet festivity showcases the DC area’s most talented pastry chefs while enjoying the world’s finest sparkling wines. 7-9 pm Tickets: $90 February 6: Watch the Packers and the Steelers battle it out for Super Bowl XLV in style at any of DC’s sports bars and pubs. See SportsTavern.com a guide of sports bars and pubs or check out a special event. Thanks to K Street Kate for the inside scoop on this event.

Join the Lazarus Foundation for its 1st Annual Super Bowl event at 19th on Sunday, February 6th, 5-11 PM. Kate Michael says, "It's about more than ultimate bragging rights. Take advantage of the open bar, buffet eats, spectacular silent auction memorabilia (including an autographed Steelers football!), and the football game showdown you've been waiting for, all to benefit the Lazarus Foundation's educational scholarship programs." Get your tickets in advance here.

February 10-13: The four-day International Food & Wine Festival at the Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center features over 100 wineries, beer, spirits, gourmet food booths, chef demonstrations and a food pavilion. Sponsored by The Washington Post and Acura the Festival is the most popular event of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic. More than just a tasting, the Festival is a celebration of wine, cuisine and culture that shines a light on the city’s diversity and prominence as a world-class dining destination. Over 100 wineries, brewers and spirit manufacturers will be available as well as over 60 food and lifestyle participants. With food taking center stage this year, some of the area’s favorite foodies will be showing off some new recipes, skills and interacting with participants. They include: Chef Demo Stage Schedule Saturday, February 12^th 2:00pm: Mike Isabella, Graffiato 3:00pm: Carla Hall, Alchemy Caterers 4:00pm: Joe Yonan & Bonnie Benwick, The Washington Post 5:00pm: Nathan Thurston, The Sanctuary, Kiawah Resort Sunday, February 13^th 2:00pm: Ramon Narvaez, Marcels, Brasserie Beck, Mussel Bar 3:00pm: Victor Albisu, BLT Steak 4:00pm: Gina Chersevani, PS 7’s Restaurant Tickets $35 for Food Pavilion, $140 for advance 2-day ticket, $85 for one day ticket at 1-888-665-6069 www.dcwineandfood.com Other Notable Events: Cupid’s Not Stupid: Cocktails to Fall For After Hours Reception - Friday, February 11^th 8-10pm at PS7’s Restaurant IWFF Brunch to benefit DCCK – Sunday, February 13^th 11am-1pm at RIS

DC Restaurant Week Menus!

Lisa Shapiro — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 03:41:23 +0000

It's that time again! It's a lot of work but every year (twice a year) I compile (as many as I can) the DC's Restaurant Week Menus! As you know, the 2011 Winter Restaurant Week is January 17-23. I have posted some listings and descriptions of participating restaurants and their menus but you should continously look on the large Button on the right column of the website. It is the page where the menus are uploaded and updated -- hourly. Prices have increased just one penny to reflect the year, 2011. Lunch (3 courses $20.11); Dinner (3 courses $35.11). For more information: RW Tips and how to get the most bang for your buck and previous Top Ten Restaurant Week picks. The official RW is just 7 days but many DC restaurants extend their promotions an extra week or sometimes an entire month. See below for a listing of those extensions. Remember: Restaurants that offer their full menu are considered the best deal. The restaurants that already offer prix fixe menus or pre-theatre menus all year-long, such as Oya or Cafe Atlantico, you can take advantage of anytime. In addition, restaurants that offers any small-plates/tapas/mezze, are all great, but already generally offer good deals year-round. Some restaurants offer only limited selections, or include various surcharges (sometimes called supplemental fees) for some of their better dishes – these should be avoided. Some of the hottest new restaurants are participating this winter. See http://washington.org/restaurantwk/ for the RW official page to see participating restaurants, and to make reservations.

DC Restaurant Week Menus:

14K Restaurant: (Lunch / Dinner) Located at the corner of 14th and K Streets, NW in the historic Hamilton Crowne Plaza Hotel, a Washington DC landmark since the 1920?s; just blocks from the White House, the Washington DC Convention Center and many of the Nation’s Monuments and Museums.

15 Ria: (Lunch / Dinner) 1905 Bistro & Bar: (Dinner only) 2941 Restaurant: (Lunch only) 2941 will be offering the Restaurant Week three-course lunch early from January 10th and extending their promotion until January 31st. In addition to the Restaurant Week lunch menu, Sommelier Matthew Carroll will also offer specials on wines by the glass available only during the month of January.

Photo by Powers & Crewe Photography

701 Restaurant: (Lunch /Dinner) Chef Ed Witt’s special 3-course Lunch and Dinner Restaurant Week menus are posted on their web site. It’s flash so click on Events and then Restaurant Week. Their lunch menu features a seasonal Chestnut and Mushroom Soup and Duck Confit. For Dinner options include a Beef Cheek appetizer with Truffled Sweet Potatoes and Caramelized Apple. Acadiana: (Lunch / Dinner) As always, all Passion Food Group restaurants embrace Restaurant Week by allowing diners the opportunity to experience their restaurants as if it were just any other week. At Acadiana and all of their other sister restaurants, Ceiba, DC Coast, PassionFish and TenPenh diners will enjoy a three-course meal of their choosing. Guests will have a variety of appetizers and desserts to choose from, and Acadiana is proud to continue their tradition of offering any entree on their regular lunch or dinner menu as second course. Adour at St. Regis Washington, DC: (Dinner only) Situated inside the elegant and luxurious St. Regis Washington, D.C., Adour offers Washingtonians a glimpse into legendary Chef Alain Ducasse’s culinary mastery. Since it’s opening in September 2008, the restaurant was nominated by the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Area of Washington as the ’Best New Open Restaurant’. Although they offer a pre-theatre menu for $49, the RW offering is just $35.11 with no surcharges! It’s an excellent value at one of DC’s most romantic restaurants. In addition, Adour has extended the promotion in the past and may announce their extension so stay tuned! Againn DC: (Lunch / Dinner) The new British Gastropub will shock you, this is not your usual British fare. Executive Chef Wes Morton, joins Againn after having worked at some of the fine kitchens of Washington DC such as Citronelle and CityZen. The restaurant is new but you won’t be able to tell – the kitchen is in sync and the beverage program is well-developed. I recommend trying out Againn especially for RW lunch.

Agora's falafel--photo by Lisa Shapiro

Agora: (Lunch / Dinner) The newly opened Mediterranean eatery Agora in Dupont Circle offers a healthy and delicious lunch menu with authentic starters such as the cacik, a yogurt-based dip with fresh cucumber, dill, garlic and homemade olive oil imported from the owner’s family farm in Foca, Turkey. The restaurant’s bread is so light and fluffy you’re tempted to fill up on the dip and olive oil alone. As for that Mediterranean staple falafel, it came smothered in tahini and served in a pita–an enormous portion that could easily be shared with a friend. Amid all of Agora’s deliciously authentic dishes, my favorite dish was the Ottoman rice with slivered almonds, saffron, black currant, pine nuts and dried apricots, topped with fried shallots and dates. More review w/Photos A La Lucia: (Lunch / Dinner) A La Lucia is participating in both DC Restaurant Week and Alexandria’s Winter Restaurant Week January 21-30th with the same menu so you have over two weeks to get a great bargain. Argia’s Italian Restaurant: (Lunch / Dinner) There is always something happening at Argia’s. Get 1/2 Priced Bottles of Wine on Mondays; Tuesday is Kids Night: Free kids meal with a purchase of pasta or entree; on Wednesday Evenings enjoy Mussel Madness Solo Mussels $6.95/over pasta $13.95. Also any day of the week enjoy their Theater Discount – 10% off your food bill when you present your tickets to that evenings show at the State Theater. Art & Soul: (Lunch / Dinner) The new Chef is offering many of Chef Art Smith’s down-home favorites that are available on the regular lunch and dinner menu, including one of my favorites, the Country Cesar Salad and their acclaimed fried chicken. This is an excellent way to sample their extraordinary cuisine at an exceptional value. Busy the actual week of RW? Not to worry! Art and Soul is extending the promotion until the 30th. Asia Nine Bar & Lounge: (Lunch / Dinner) Assaggi Osteria (McLean, VA): (Lunch / Dinner) For lunch, choose 2 courses from their special RW menu for $12. Bangkok Joe’s: (Lunch / Dinner) Barcode: (Lunch / Dinner) Offering the full menu a la carte, 4-course dinner plus a free glass of wine for guests. Bastille: (Lunch / Dinner) Belga Cafe: (Lunch / Dinner) (Thru Jan 22nd) Bistro Bis: (Lunch / Dinner) Menus are posted on their website: http://www.bistrobis.com/ under Menus and ’Other Menus’ (Note: There are many upcharges.’ Bistro FranÃ§ais: (Lunch / Dinner) Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar: (Lunch / Dinner) This quaint and charming French bistro celebrated its 15th anniversary in April 2010 as Owner/Chef Bruno Fortin brought an authentic piece of Paris to Georgetown in 1995. The 20-seat Wine Bar opened in 2002 and is a friendly intimate and inviting gathering place. Executive Chef Simon Ndjiki-Nya’s restaurant week menu is an excellent sampling of his fine cooking with No Upcharges! Hooray! Blacksalt: (Lunch only) Bobby Van’s Grill: (Lunch / Dinner) Bourbon Steak (DC): (Lunch only) Under Menus click Restaurant Week 2011. Buddha Bar DC: (Lunch only) This menu offers a choice Appetizer: Miso Soup, Salt and Pepper Calamari, Vietnamese Spring Rolls, or California Roll; Main Course: Korean BBQ Sandwich, Kobe Beef Sliders, Japanese Sea Bass Tacos, or Mass Roll; and for dessert, Chocolate Sesame Bars. The regular Ã la carte menu will also be available, along with an assortment of beverages charged based on consumption. Cafe Berlin: (Lunch / Dinner) Cafe Milano: (Lunch only) Cafe Promenade: (Lunch / Dinner) Casa Oaxaca: (Dinner only) Caucas Room (The): (Lunch / Dinner) Ceiba: (Lunch / Dinner) As always, all Passion Food Group restaurants embrace Restaurant Week by allowing diners the opportunity to experience their restaurants as if it were just any other week. At Ceiba, and all of their other sister restaurants, Acadiana, DC Coast, PassionFish and TenPenh diners will enjoy a three-course meal of their choosing. Guests will have a variety of appetizers and desserts to choose from, and Ceiba is proud to continue their tradition of offering any entree on their regular lunch or dinner menu as second course. Charlie Palmer Steak (DC): (Lunch / Dinner) Chef Geoff’s: (Georgetown; Downtown; Tysons Corner) (Lunch / Dinner) For DC Restaurant Week, Chef Geoff’s offers the WHOLE menu, with no upcharges. Guests may choose any soup salad or starter followed by any entree followed by any dessert.

Co Co. Sala's "Bites" Trio

Co Co. Sala: (Brunch / Dinner) Warm up your winter with hot co co. followed by three more courses priced at $35.11 per person. In addition to the Manchego & Baby Arugula or Tomato & Burrata Salad starter, guests are welcome to choose two signature Co Co. Bites such as the Tandoori Chicken Slider, Bacon Mac & Cheese, or Crispy Creole Crabcake with a Chipotle Chocolate Tomato Glaze. The sweet Sticky Situation or their hocolate Onyx Dessert are the perfect ending for this wonderful winter deal! (Closed Sunday evenings). Brunch is offered 11am-2:30pm during Restaurant Week on Saturday & Sunday, Jan 22nd & 23rd and experience their 3-course Prix Fixe for $25.11! Indulge in their decadent brunch incuding beautiful desserts, creative entrees, and refreshing champagne cocktails. Executive Chef Santosh Tiptur serves delectable dishes such as our popular French Toast S’mores, Breakfast Flatbread and Grown-up Grilled Cheese with Truffle Brioche. They will also be offering their regular brunch menu which features both a la carte and prix fixe on Saturday and Sunday, Jan 29 & 30 11am- 2:30pm.

Firehouse Burger. Photo by L. Shapiro

Columbia Firehouse (The): (Brunch / Lunch / Dinner) Extending until January 30, they are also offering Sunday Brunch. For Lunch, diners may choose any first course selection (with the exception of the raw bar), any sandwich, entree salad followed by any any dessert for $20.11. Meat lovers will devour Columbia Firehouse’s burger, made with only the best pasture-raised Angus beef from Chef Nathan Anda’s Red Apron Butchery (see photo on right). For Dinner, guests may choose any first course selection (with the exception of the raw bar), cheese and charcuterie, any sandwich, entree salad or entree followed by any any dessert for $35.11. See Dining in DC’s Review from Restaurant Week 2009 (Week of opening). Cuba Libre DC: (Brunch / Lunch) Darlington House: (Lunch / Dinner) DC Coast: (Lunch / Dinner) As always, all Passion Food Group restaurants embrace Restaurant Week by allowing diners the opportunity to experience their restaurants as if it were just any other week. At DC Coast and all of their other sister restaurants, Acadiana, Ceiba, PassionFish and TenPenh diners will enjoy a three-course meal of their choosing. Guests will have a variety of appetizers and desserts to choose from, and DC Coast a is proud to continue their tradition of offering any entree on their regular lunch or dinner menu as second course. Dino: (Brunch/ Dinner) Not many restaurants celebrate Restaurant Week like Dino. Not only will they extend the promotion until January 31st, but Dino will offer their FULL Dinner menu for restaurant week. Choose 3 courses from their entire Dinner menu {a few items may have an up-charge} and plus wines $50 are 33% off. {Gluten Free}: Dishes indicated with an r at the end of the description contain gluten but can be made gluten free. Ask your server. Sunday brunch offered on 1/23 and 1/30 at Restaurant week pricing $20.12 for 3 courses! District Chophouse (The): (Lunch / Dinner) Domaso Trattiria Modera: ( Lunch/ Dinner) Domaso is offering four courses instead of three at dinner. Located on the 4th floor of the Hotel Palomar Arlington in Rosslyn, VA, their menu showcases modern interpretations of Northern Italian cuisine using only fresh, organic and seasonal ingredients to create a wide variety of seafood, beef, pork, pasta and vegetarian dishes. Eatonville: (Lunch / Dinner) El Manantial: (Lunch / Dinner) Eola: (Dinner only) Evening Star Cafe (Del Ray): (Dinner only) Extra Virgin (Shirlington): (Lunch / Dinner) Farmers & Fishers: (Brunch / Lunch/ Dinner) Both menus run Jan 17-30. Also Sunday Brunch is offered at a special price ($20.11). Farrah Olivia by Morou: (Dinner only) Morou is offering his Ivory Coast inspired menu in the private dining room at Kora in Crystal City, VA. Firefly: (Lunch / Dinner) The dinner menu offers their full selection of dinner entrees with minor up-charges on only 3 items. Floriana Restaurant: (Dinner only) Floriana is offering their entire regular dinner menu to diners to create their own 3-course menu. Diners will have a choice of any Soup, Salad or appetizer for first course; for second course, choose and Pasta; and any Dessert. To see their menu click menu. Fourth Estate Restaurant at the National Press Club: (Lunch / Dinner) Georgia Brown: (Dinner only) Offering a Restaurant Week dinner menu of its home-cooking including dishes such as Heirloom Tomatoes with Country Ham decorated with Rosemary Fig Vinaigrette and Slow Braised Pork Shank with Deep Fried Brussels Sprouts. Guests are encouraged to end the evening with Georgia Brown’s melt-in-your mouth classic, the Peach Cobbler. Granville Moore: (Lunch / Dinner) Participating in H Street Eats the same time as restaurant week. They’re doing a special all week – choice of any moules, an order of small frites (with 1 dipping sauce) and a slice of Cheesecake for $20.11. Promo runs from 17th thru the 23rd. The Grille at Morrison House: (Dinner only) The Grille is also participating in Alexandria’s Winter Restaurant Week (the week following DC Restaurant Week) with the same menu. Harry’s Tap Room (Clarendon, VA): (Lunch / Dinner) Their 3-course Restaurant Week menu features organic and natural ingredients sourced from local farms. Ask the Sommelier for a wine pairing from their expertly selected All-American wine list. Hudson Restaurant: (Sunday Brunch /Lunch / Dinner) Enjoy some of Chef Demetrio Zavala’s newest creations. The Short Ribs are to die for! iCi Urban Bistro: (Lunch / Dinner) Ici Urban Bistro offers a fresh and contemporary twist on traditional French cuisine. Executive Chef, Olivier Perret, a native of Burgundy, France, has captivated DC diners with his innovative and contemporary approach to traditional French cooking. Chef Perret uses fresh and local ingredients while adhering to his classical training. Indique: (Dinner only) Indique Heights: (Dinner only) Jackson 20: (Brunch / Lunch / Dinner) Jackson 20 will offer their entire menu at all meal periods, and their beverage specials will be available during RW, including bottomless mimosas for brunch, Wine Down Mondays and their 20/20 wine list (20 wines for $20). Jackson 20 is also participating in Alexandria Restaurant Week (the week following DC Restaurant Week) with the same menus. Jaleo: (Lunch / Dinner) Extended Thru Jan 30th J&G Steakhouse: (Lunch) Inside the swanky W Hotel, J&G Steakhouse by acclaimed French Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten normally falls into the expense account slash special occasion only category; however, by participating in DC Restaurant Week and extending one full week until Friday, January 28th, J&G Steakhouse gives locals a chance to dine like those living the good life. Juniper at the Fairmont: (Lunch / Dinner) Kellari Taverna: (Lunch / Dinner) They’re starting early offering their 3 course menus January 10th! Kinkead’s, An American Brasserie: (Lunch / Dinner) For lunch only, Kinkead’s is offering their special 3-course DC Restaurant Week menu each weekday during the month of January beginning January 3rd and ending January 28th.) For Dinner, Kinkead’s is offering their dinner menu Jan 17-23rd. Their menus are posted to their website http://www.kinkead.com under Menus and Promotional. Kushi Izakaya, is not only participating in Restaurant Week for the first time during lunch and dinner, but also extending the restaurant week promotional pricing for an additional week. Kushi’s Restaurant Week Menu allows diners to taste several of Kushi’s much talked-about dishes in a four-course progression including the pork belly and duck sausage kushiyaki, wood-grilled maitake mushrooms and the famed sea salt gelato. La Bergerie: (Lunch / Dinner) La Bergerie will extend their special 3-course DC Restaurant Week menus until January 30th. La Chaumiere: (Lunch / Dinner) Legal Seafoods (DC 7th St, NW): (Dinner only) Lima: (Dinner only) Lima is extending until January 30th and is offering their entire regular dinner menu. Diners will enjoy a three-course meal of their choosing. Masa 14: (Lunch / Dinner) Chef Richard Sandoval, who brought us his marriage of Latin-Asian flavors, Zengo partnered with Chef Kaz Okochi of Kaz Sushi Bistro to bring us Masa 14 - serving Latin and Asian small plates. Me Jana: (Lunch / Dinner) Melrose Hotel (DC): (Lunch / Dinner) ** Not listed on Opentable’s list! The Landmark Restaurant in the Melrose Hotel situated on Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, in Washington DC’s fashionable West End, offers a modern American Menu.

Mie N Yu's exclusive VIP table, "The Birdcage"

Mie N Yu (Georgetown): (Dinner only) Enjoy FOUR courses with Mie N Yu’s Restaurant Week Menu instead of three. Also, wine and cocktail specials will be featured! Mio: (Lunch /Dinner ) Extending the entire month of January and featuring a new special 3-course menu each week. Monocle on Capitol Hill: (Lunch / Dinner) Morton’s Steakhouse (Reston): (Lunch / Dinner) Morton’s Steakhouse (Tysons Corner): (Dinner only) Morton’s Steakhouse (Arlington): (Dinner only) Nage Restaurant DC: (Lunch / Dinner) Believing that one week is just not enough time, Nage Bistro in Scott Circle will be extending the Restaurant Week pricing for the entire month of January. Executive Chef Glenn Babcock adds creative flair to his American menu and guests can relax in a comfortable dining atmosphere and nosh on dishes such as Smoked Chesapeake Perch Salad, Ricotta Gnocchi with Buffalo Mozzarella, and rich Doubleshot Espresso Tiramisu to complete the night. Neyla Restaurant: (Dinner only) A Mediterranean Grill inspired by the architecture of beautiful Romanesque Mediterranean villas, will offer a Restaurant Week dinner menu featuring flavorful dishes such as a Mediterranean Salad with Roasted Bell Pepper and Feta Cheese with a Sherry Vinegar, Shrimp Kabob marinated in Oregano and Olive Oil, and Osmaliya, a shredded crispy Phyllo Dough topped with Honey Syrup and Pistachio for dessert. Occidental Seafood Room DC: (Lunch / Dinner) Odeon Cafe: (Lunch / Dinner) Oya: (Dinner only) Oyamel: (Lunch / Dinner) Paolo’s Ristorante: (Dinner only) An iconic Georgetown dining spot will be offering a Restaurant Week dinner menu and will offer diners authentic Italian dinner dishes including Roasted Sage Chicken Ravioli en Brodo, Mortadella Tortelloni with Spinach, Risotto Crab Cake, and Chocolate Panna Cotta with Raspberry Vacherins and sweet Hazelnut Brittle. PassionFish: (Lunch / Dinner) Enjoy a three-course meal at PassionFish in Reston Town Center, the newest fun-loving sister of the Passion Food Group, or any of their restaurants for lunch or dinner during Restaurant Week. You’ll have a variety of appetizers and desserts to choose from. If you have children, they’ll love it here. The kids menu is top notch! Perry’s: (Dinner only) Extending until January 31st. Policy DC: (Dinner only) Three courses plus Dessert or three courses and a optional course. Restaurant 3: (Lunch / Dinner) 3 in Clarendon will be extending Restaurant Week thru Saturday, January 29th for and will offer guests a complimentary glass of house wine or draft beer during dinner. During lunch, diners can enjoy courses such as Southern-style Savannah Wings or the Cuban Sandwich with Slow Roasted Pork, Tasso Ham and Fontina Cheese. With a dinner reservation, guests can indulge in satisfying dishes like Fried Green Tomatoes with Goat Cheese, Green Tomato Relish, and Creole Remoulade, 16 ounce Bone-In Rib Eye with Mashed Potatoes, and end the night with 3’s favorite Chocolate Bread Pudding with warm white chocolate sauce. Ris: (Lunch / Dinner) This upscale neighborhood cafe by former 1789 chef Ris Lacoste offers a creative 3-course DC Restaurant Week menu with fare such as gnudi – ricotta dumplings on a bed of tomatoes with spinach and prosciutto – as well as a dinner-only cider-glazed, grilled pork chop with collard greens and corn-bread pudding in a bacon and bourbon sauce. Smith Commons: (Dinner only) Extending until Jan 30th and offering a complimentary Beer to each guest over 21. Sonoma Restaurant + Wine Bar: (Lunch/ Dinner) Sou’Wester: (Lunch / Dinner) The casual Southern restaurant by CityZen’s Executive Chef Eric Ziebold on DC’s Southwest waterfront is offering a terrific menu for restaurant week, executed by Chef de Cuisine Rachael Harriman. the new Southern-inspired menu features American comfort food, inspired by products of the mid-Atlantic region, including the Maryland Blue Crab Bisque, Marinated Chesapeake Bay Rockfish Carparccio, and Shoat Rillettes with Pickled Green Tomatoes. Taberna del Alaberdero: (Lunch / Dinner) Tallula: (Dinner only) Tallula will be offering their entire menu, as usual; however, Chef Kaslow continuously updates his menu seasonally. The current menu on the website (attached) is a pretty good representation of the final menu which will be offered during Restaurant Week. If you don’t make it for Restaurant Week, don’t fret. Tallula offers Neighborhood Nosh, a special 3-course dinner for only $35 all night Sunday and Monday and Tuesday through Thursday, 5:30 – 6:30. TenPenh: (Lunch / Dinner) TenPenh just celebrated their 10th Anniversary in August! As always, all Passion Food Group restaurants embrace Restaurant Week by allowing diners the opportunity to experience their restaurants as if it were just any other week. At TenPenh and all of their other sister restaurants including Acadiana, Ceiba, DC Coast, and PassionFish, diners will enjoy a three-course meal of their choosing. Guests will have a variety of appetizers and desserts to choose from, and TenPenh is proud to continue their tradition of offering any entree on their regular lunch or dinner menu as second course. Tosca Ristorante: (Dinner only) Chef Massimo Fabri is offering the entire regular dinner menu to diners to create their own 3-course menu. Diners will have a choice of any appetizer for first course; for second course, choose an entree and to finish any Dessert. Executive Chef Massimo Fabbri has earned a superior reputation for making some of the best pasta in the city, which is house-made fresh daily, Tosca ranked within the top 25 of Washingtonian’s Very Best list two years in a row earning three stars out of four. In addition, Tosca has a wonderful pre-theatre dinner for $35 with wonderful choices. *Note: Closed Sundays. Vermilion: (Lunch / Dinner)

: Vidalia’s Shrimp & Grits. Photo by L. Shapiro

Vidalia: (Lunch / Dinner) Menus are posted on their website: http://www.bistrobis.com/ under Menus and ’Other Menus’ (Note: There are a few upcharges.’) See Dining in DC’s Review for 2009 RW. I’ve had the Shrimp and Grits more than once – I don’t recall there ever being an upcharge for them before. Vinifera Wine Bar & Bistro (Reston, VA): (Lunch / Dinner) Westend Bistro by Eric Ripert: (Lunch / Dinner) Wildfire: (Tysons Corner, VA) (Lunch / Dinner) The Wildfire menus include your choice of soup or salad, a Wildfire Signature main course with a choice of a side, and dessert for $20.11* at lunch and $35.11* for dinner per person. Willow: (Lunch / Dinner) One of Top Picks for DC Restaurant Week, no question! Willow’s cuisine style is described as modern continental and Chef Tracy O’Grady prides herself on using the freshest ingredients featuring local produce, meat, and grains while incorporating classic French and Italian influences. See Dining in DC’s raving review of Willow from Summer 2010 RW. Willow is extending their promotion until Jan 29th! Zaytinya: (Lunch / Dinner) Extending DC Restaurant Week until January 30th. ZENTAN: (Dinner only) I have really grown to love ZENTAN, Susur Lee’s Washington, DC restaurant located in the Donovan Hotel house. Ever since Chef Lee has been on Top Chef Masters, the restaurant has received critical acclaim. For appetizers, the Singapore Slaw, one of Susur’s signature dishes is my favorite all time dish. Zentan has the freshest cuts of fish and their selections is designed to showcase the authentic tradition of the cuisine. The crudo plate is sure to please. Also on the RW menu is the Cantonese Marinated Skirt Steak which is tender, juicy, and very flavorful. Zest American Bistro: (Lunch / Dinner) This Capitol Hill neighborhood gem serves up deliciously satisfying food at reasonable prices. Their dishes are both nostalgic and familiar but often have a creative touch. A November 2010 Hilly Runner Up Award – Best New Business.

DC Restaurant Week Extensions:

The following restaurants have extended their restaurant week promotions. See below for list of Winter 2011 RW Extensions:

2941:

Jan 10-31st

Art and Soul:

Thru Jan 30th

Cafe Atlantico:

Thru Jan 3oth

Casa Oaxaca: Thru Jan 30th Co Co. Sala: Thru Jan 29 Columbia Firehouse: Thru Jan 30th Dino:

Thru Jan 31st

Farmers & Fishers

: Thru Jan 30th

Jaleo: Thru Jan 30th J&G Steakhouse: Thru Jan 28th La Bergerie: Thru Jan 3oth

Mio: Entire month of JanuaryNage: Entire month of JanuaryPerry’s: Thru Jan 31st Restaurant 3: Thru Sat. Jan 29 Smith Commons: Thru Jan 30th Tuscana West: Thru Jan 30th Willow: Thru Jan 29th Zaytinya: Thru Jan 30th

Click here to see DC Restaurant Week Winter 2010 Menus; Summer 2010 DC Restaurant Week menus or Summer 2009 DC Restaurant Week menus.

This menu offers a choice Appetizer: Miso Soup, Salt and Pepper Calamari, Vietnamese Spring Rolls, or California Roll; Main Course: Korean BBQ Sandwich, Kobe Beef Sliders, Japanese Sea Bass Tacos, or Mass Roll; and for dessert, Chocolate Sesame Bars. The regular Ã la carte menu will also be available, along with an assortment of beverages charged based on consumption.

PassionFish – Take Two!

Lisa Shapiro — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 23:55:37 +0000

FOOD: FOR KIDS: COST:

PassionFish 11960 Democracy Dr., Reston

Click for Restaurant website March is a big birthday month in my extended family. My husband's grandmother turned 87 on the 17th. My father-in-law had his birthday on the 19th and even more exciting my son, Alexander, turned five on the 21st. My father-in-law cooks for most of my husband’s family birthday celebrations, so for his own we decided to go out. I was given the honor to choose where we went to dinner. This posed a logistical challenge for a number of reasons. First of all, there were nine of us. We had a wheelchair and needed easy access to the front door and dining room. We also had two small children in our party, so it needed to be as kids-friendly as possible. A lot to consider, but I had an idea! Seafood is a favorite of everyone in the family, and I had recently been to PassionFish, in Reston Town Center, for Restaurant Week. I knew that the front of the restaurant could be accessed right from the sidewalk. I knew that there was a large dining room on the main level and I could test out their self-proclaimed kids menu. With all these things being considered, PassionFish was an easy choice. I was lucky enough to score a reservation on a Friday night at our ideal time of 7 p.m., and for nine people at that. I contacted the restaurant via e-mail to ask them if they were able to accommodate our large party in the dining room on the main level. (See photo of Main Dining Room for view of the Mezzanine level above staircase). Grandma is in a wheelchair and can't go up stairs. They reassured me that they were able to accommodate our large group, including the wheel chair and high chair that we needed. When they called to confirm, I asked again, just to be doubly sure. When we arrived at the restaurant, General Manager Michael Yarger graciously greeted us at the door. The table was ready when we arrived and we were able to be seated right away. We had a little bit of trouble re-arranging the chairs in order to fit grandma's wheelchair but the highchair was already at the table in place for us. Once we were settled into our seats our server came over to the table. I recognized Phillip right away from the last time that I dined at PassionFish. He told us that Halibut was the "Poisson du Jour" (or the Fish of the Day for the non-French speaking). My husband and I decided to split some sushi for our appetizer, so we ordered a simple California Roll with Jumbo Lump crab meat, Avocado, and Cucumber. I thought that it was okay, but I’m not nearly the sushi lover that my husband is. For the main course, I ordered the Monkfish Osso Bucco Amatriciana. (See picture on the right). Through some online research, I learned that "Osso Bucco" is Italian for 'hole bone'. Considered a classic dish in Milan, Italy, veal shanks are cut across the bone into slices using the bone marrow as part of the appeal of the dish. The veal is usually sprinkled with gremolata, a mixture of parsley, garlic and lemon peel, and served with risotto. PassionFish has done an excellent job recreating this Milanese classic; however, with fish. Presenting the fish "Amatriciana" with zesty pancetta and tomato sauce so named after the Italian town of Amatrice, is quite flavorful and zesty. If it were any spicier, I would not have been able to eat it. The menu description includes the "gremolata"; however, to be perfectly honest, I think it would be nearly impossible to notice a mixture of parsley, garlic and lemon peel with the pancetta as spicy as it was. The fish was served atop creamy Parmesan Polenta. I really like the polenta. It's delicious and is a better accompaniment than mashed potatoes. The Passion Hospitality Food Group doesn't have an Italian themed restaurant, but if they were to open one, I think this would be an excellent signature dish for them (but using the Veal, perhaps, as it is more traditionally Italian). My husband ordered the Whole Crispy Flounder. This has not really happened before in my experience, perhaps it's rare for PassionFish also, but my husband's meal did not come out with the rest of the main courses. His flounder arrived 5-10 minutes later. It was indeed the whole fish! It was quite spectacular (see photo to the right). I tried one bite that my husband fed to me and it contained 4 very long bones! He apologized that the bite that he gave me had so many bones in it. With that being said, I wasn't able to really get an idea of how the fish tasted. When asked, my husband said his fish was very good but was more than he needed. He mentioned that Tamarind Chili Garlic Nam Pla Prik, with his fish (served in a side dish) was very good, spicy without being over-powering. I did not try it. I don't do peppers, as I am allergic. He did not care much for the vinegar dressing that came with the Sunumona Salad. As for the kids menu at PassionFish, I will say that my son's Beach Bucket of Chicken tenders and French Fries did arrive in a jaunty nautical blue & white tin bucket, just as the menu described. The chicken tenders were crispy and delicious. The fry batter was well-seasoned, yet not too salty. The fries, although sprinkled just lightly with Old Bay, were too spicy for my five year old's taste; however, he ate all three of the chicken tenders. He also enjoyed coloring on the nautical themed placemat and he occupied himself by playing with the "Wikki Sticks" that were provided to him. The server was very tolerant of the fact that we had kids. He was very patient, polite, and professional. He asked me if I wanted the kids meal to come out before the adult entrees. I told him that if we had his meal arrive beforehand that he would finish eating before we got our meals and we would be disturbed while trying to enjoy our dinners. My son's meal did come out a few minutes before every one else's meal, but not too far in advance that it was a problem. I consider PassionFish to be pretty kids-friendly, although I was surprised to discover that neither the Ladies nor the Men's room was equipped with a changing station. We were at the restaurant at least two hours. My daughter, who is one needed a diaper change, but we were unable to do so because there were no facilities to do so. This was part of my consideration but I still gave PassionFish my highest kids-friendly rating thus far: 3 pacifiers (or as my husband calls it "sucks"). I'm looking forward to returning and I will certainly recommend it to anyone looking for a family friendly restaurant with excellent food!

Back to PassionFish with a group of Nine including Kids & Elders.

Lisa Shapiro — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 00:09:00 +0000

FOOD:

FOR KIDS:

COST:

PassionFish
11960 Democracy Dr., Reston

Tel: 703.230.FISH [3474] <--- cute isn't it?
Restaurant Website
March is a big birthday month in my extended family. My husband's grandmother turned 87 on the 17th. My father-in-law had his birthday on the 19th and even more exciting my son, Alexander, turned five on the 21st. My father-in-law cooks for most of my husband’s family birthday celebrations, so for his own we decided to go out. I was given the honor to choose where we went to dinner. This posed a logistical challenge for a number of reasons. First of all, there were nine of us. We had a wheelchair and needed easy access to the front door and dining room. We also had two small children in our party, so it needed to be as kids-friendly as possible. A lot to consider, but I had an idea! Seafood is a favorite of everyone in the family, and I had recently been to PassionFish, in Reston Town Center, for Restaurant Week. I knew that the front of the restaurant could be accessed right from the sidewalk. I knew that there was a large dining room on the main level and I could test out their self-proclaimed kids menu. With all these things being considered, PassionFish was an easy choice. I was lucky enough to score a reservation on a Friday night at our ideal time of 7 p.m., and for nine people at that. I contacted the restaurant via e-mail to ask them if they were able to accommodate our large party in the dining room on the main level. (See photo of Main Dining Room for view of the Mezzanine level above staircase). Grandma is in a wheelchair and can't go up stairs. They reassured me that they were able to accommodate our large group, including the wheel chair and high chair that we needed. When they called to confirm, I asked again, just to be doubly sure.
When we arrived at the restaurant, General Manager Michael Yarger graciously greeted us at the door. The table was ready when we arrived and we were able to be seated right away. We had a little bit of trouble re-arranging the chairs in order to fit grandma's wheelchair but the highchair was already at the table in place for us. Once we were settled into our seats our server came over to the table. I recognized Phillip right away from the last time that I dined at PassionFish. He told us that Halibut was the "Poisson du Jour" (or the Fish of the Day for the non-French speaking). My husband and I decided to split some sushi for our appetizer, so we ordered a simple California Roll with Jumbo Lump crab meat, Avocado, and Cucumber. I thought that it was okay, but I’m not nearly the sushi lover that my husband is. For the main course, I ordered the Monkfish Osso Bucco Amatriciana. (See picture on the right). Through some online research, I learned that "Osso Bucco" is Italian for 'hole bone'. Considered a classic dish in Milan, Italy, veal shanks are cut across the bone into slices using the bone marrow as part of the appeal of the dish. The veal is usually sprinkled with gremolata, a mixture of parsley, garlic and lemon peel, and served with risotto. PassionFish has done an excellent job recreating this Milanese classic; however, with fish. Presenting the fish "Amatriciana" with zesty pancetta and tomato sauce so named after the Italian town of Amatrice, is quite flavorful and zesty. If it were any spicier, I would not have been able to eat it. The menu description includes the "gremolata"; however, to be perfectly honest, I think it would be nearly impossible to notice a mixture of parsley, garlic and lemon peel with the pancetta as spicy as it was. The fish was served atop creamy Parmesan Polenta. I really like the polenta. It's delicious and is a better accompaniment than mashed potatoes. The Passion Hospitality Food Group doesn't have an Italian themed restaurant, but if they were to open one, I think this would be an excellent signature dish for them (but using the Veal, perhaps, as it is more traditionally Italian). My husband ordered the Whole Crispy Flounder. This has not really happened before in my experience, perhaps it's rare for PassionFish also, but my husband's meal did not come out with the rest of the main courses. His flounder arrived 5-10 minutes later. It was indeed the whole fish! It was quite spectacular (see photo to the right). I tried one bite that my husband fed to me and it contained 4 very long bones! He apologized that the bite that he gave me had so many bones in it. With that being said, I wasn't able to really get an idea of how the fish tasted. When asked, my husband said his fish was very good but was more than he needed. He mentioned that Tamarind Chili Garlic Nam Pla Prik, with his fish (served in a side dish) was very good, spicy without being over-powering. I did not try it. I don't do peppers, as I am allergic. He did not care much for the vinegar dressing that came with the Sunumona Salad.
As for the kids menu at PassionFish, I will say that my son's Beach Bucket of Chicken tenders and French Fries did arrive in a jaunty nautical blue & white tin bucket, just as the menu described. The chicken tenders were crispy and delicious. The fry batter was well-seasoned, yet not too salty. The fries, although sprinkled just lightly with Old Bay, were too spicy for my five year old's taste; however, he ate all three of the chicken tenders. He also enjoyed coloring on the nautical themed placemat and he occupied himself by playing with the "Wikki Sticks" that were provided to him. The server was very tolerant of the fact that we had kids. He was very patient, polite, and professional. He asked me if I wanted the kids meal to come out before the adult entrees. I told him that if we had his meal arrive beforehand that he would finish eating before we got our meals and we would be disturbed while trying to enjoy our dinners. My son's meal did come out a few minutes before every one else's meal, but not too far in advance that it was a problem. I consider PassionFish to be pretty kids-friendly, although I was surprised to discover that neither the Ladies nor the Men's room was equipped with a changing station. We were at the restaurant at least two hours. My daughter, who is one needed a diaper change, but we were unable to do so because there were no facilities to do so. This was part of my consideration but I still gave PassionFish my highest kids-friendly rating thus far: 3 pacifiers (or as my husband calls it "sucks"). I'm looking forward to returning and I will certainly recommend i t to anyone looking for a family friendly restaurant with excellent food!

PassionFish – Jeff Tunks goes to Reston

Lisa Shapiro — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:58:00 +0000

FOOD: FOR KIDS: COST:

PassionFish 11960 Democracy Dr., Reston

I have reviewed three other Passion Food Hospitality (PFH) Group restaurants before such as Ceiba, DC Coast, and Acadiana. Each restaurant has their own expertise. Ceiba is Neuvo Latina cuisine, DC Coast is local seafood, Acadiana is what the name suggests, Cajun Southern cooking. I was anxious to visit their newest sister, PassionFish in Reston, VA. The website mentions that the restaurant focuses on "Global" seafood. The dining room decor and design resembles the other Passion Food restaurants. It's open, clean, crisp, and modern except because this space was newly built, probably just for them it is much larger than the other restaurants. I'm not sure about the exact table count. Hmm... I could look into this. This dining space like the others offer diners remarkable views of the kitchen at work. This seems to be a signature of their establishments. I loved that I could see from my table Mike Yarger, General Manager checking each plate before it goes out. The floating glass chandeliers are gorgeous and the glass staircase is remarkable (see photo to the left). It's also the little things, the small touches that makes a restaurant it's own. PassionFish continues their central theme to the table top with flatware with fish tails and hugging Koi salt-n-pepper shakers. I took a lot more pictures, but I can't include them all here. (see photo to the right). My good longtime friend Rick and I were seated on the upper level at the top of the floating glass staircase. The view of the large dining room was quite impressive. I was surprised and pleased to learn that the Restaurant Week menu offered all of their regular menu entrees with the exception of the lobster and there was a small surcharge. First course offerings included two kinds of Ceviche, a mixed green salad; Caesar salad; Louisiana seafood gumbo; lobster-and-roasted-butternut-squash bisque; blue-crab-and-corn chowder; Peruvian-style ceviche; Yucatan shrimp ceviche cocktail; and trio of nigiri with tuna, salmon, and hamachi. I was able to sample the ceviche cocktail and lobster bisque. The ceviche was a deliciously thick and chunky shrimp salsa served with tortilla chips. The server was very thoughtful and brought an extra spoon for us to share. The bisque had some lobster chunks and was deliciously creamy. I've had the bisque at other PFH restaurants. It was as good as I remembered. The portion was plentiful ... certainly enough for two persons to share. For the main course, I ordered the Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes with Chipotle Remoulade (see photo on left). The crab cakes were pretty good; certainly not the best that I have ever had. Some bites were crunchier than others; I found a few shells, it's bound to happen. I would have also preferred to have the sauce on the side. Rick ordered the salmon colored Poached Icelandic Arctic Char. It looked exactly like salmon, coloring, texture except that it tasted like a white fish. I would have been pleased if I had ordered the Char as my entree. It is on the regular menu so I of course could order it at my next visit. For desserts I sampled the Salted-caramel crÃ¨me brulee with hazelnut biscotti and the molten chocolate cake with vanilla-malt ice cream. I don't ever order chocolate desserts so I enjoy being able to taste someone else's. Rick said that he thought the chocolate cake was the best dessert that he had ever had in his whole entire life. I didn't share his enthusiasm, but it was flavorful. I have to mention that I was very pleased to find out that there is a substantial children's menu and at a bargain with entrees just $6 [including a drink], and desserts and sides $3 each. Kids also get an adorable Menu place-mat with a number of nautical word games. Menu items include a trio of Mini Burger Sliders, a "Beach Bucket" choices of Fish, Shrimp, or Chicken and Fries which arrives in a jaunty nautical blue & white tin bucket, fish Tacos, grilled Cheese, and even PassionFish's own "Beginner Sushi Roll" which features cucumber, avocado, and fresh crab meat that comes with soy sauce in a seashell-shaped bowl. There are a few side dishes as well. I didn't see any children in the restaurant when I was there so I don't know if kids will dig what's on the menu.