Last week, I had the great pleasure of discovering DC’s newest concept in Japanese dining. Kushi, located on 5th and K Street in the CityVista building, brings not only a fresh new look to the growing Mt. Vernon Triangle area, but some of the freshest nigiri I’ve ever had!

Spending my last “official” night of living in the DC area, my friends and I attempted to make Kushi’s Happy Hour on a bustling Friday night.  Sadly, the rainy weather and habitual tardiness of large groups caused us to miss our 6:30pm reservation. However, after speaking with the very gracious and accommodating staff (who I later learned were the owners!) we were able to seat our complete party, and even add on a couple extra people!  This was no easy feat on a busy Friday night, but the staff truly went above and beyond to accommodate our party!

Once we were seated, we perused the menu, which offered quite a variety!  Promoting the first Japanese Izakaya-style restaurant in DC, Kushi includes a variety of grilled meats, vegetables, bar snacks and of course, fresh, fresh sushi!   The name “izakaya” is a a combination of the Japanese words “i ” (to sit) and “sakaya” (sake shop).  And to label Kushi as a “sake shop” is quite an understatement!  From sashimi to sake, Kushi definitely offers it all!  Such a huge selection of Japan’s finest, you’ll want to try every last bite!

As we were quite a large group, we opted to try a bit of everything, and were nothing short of impressed!  Though the portions can be smaller than expected, the flavors make up for it in abundance!  The idea of an izakaya is to offer a wide variety of small snacks with your choice of sake, beer or any libation!  And, since portions are smaller– so is the price!  Prepare to order in parts and gradually end up with a complete and satisfying meal!

We sampled succulent pork belly, wasabi chicken skewers, crispy chicken skin and just about every nigiri on the menu.  And, I must say, I’m a HUGE fan!   The freshest catches of the day are available from their small, but distinguished fish market– complete with lobster and fresh Kumamoto oysters!

Word to the wise, if you’re looking for creative, trendy sushi rolls, Kushi is not the place for you.   You’ll find no average sushi bar here.  Think and expect authentic, simple, delicious dishes made from the freshest ingredients!

As I mentioned before, I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting the co-owners, husband and wife team, Darren and Ari.  Hailing from New York City, this dynamic duo certainly knows how to make a guest feel welcome and taken care of!   They have managed to bring a neighborhood feel with a chic and stylish scene to DC’s up and coming Mt. Vernon Square.   If you find yourself scouring the streets of Gallery Place looking for something new, head just a few short blocks north and discover the wonder within Kushi Izakaya & Sushi!  You’ll be wondering where DC’s Japanese cuisine has been hiding!

Kushi Izakaya & Sushi

465 K Street, NW

Washington, DC 21001

202.682.3123

*Reservations highly recommended

Ten years ago, on the corner of 14th Street and K, the flagship of one of DC’s best-known restaurant groups was born. Supplanting a wealth of fresh seafood paired with it’s exquisite architecture and elegant design, DC Coast quickly became the place for power hungry fine dining. Stellar service, along with artistically crafted dishes combined to create a DC great.

Following an exciting and historic election week, we decided to go to DC Coast to celebrate my brother-in-law’s birthday. Having celebrated his birthdays here in the past, we were excited to return to, what in our minds, is a DC staple; a go-to restaurant that offers the unwavering service that we have become accustomed to.

The starters, which for the most part have become my favorite at most restaurants, were definitely the highlights.

Delicious “Poisson Cru” or tuna tartare tossed in fresh lime juice and coconut milk, served in a carved coconut with wonton crisp spoons…went over very well with my brother-in-law, who is a HUGE tartare fan.

My sister, who is always up for some raw-bar action, opted for the Iced Blue Point Oysters topped with a Champagne Sabayon and served with a side of Frozen Level Vodka. Oyster shooters, indeed! The flavor combinations and perfectly chilled temperature of the oysters (thanks to the vodka) were excellent.

As we moved on to our entrees, (which sadly, included a bit of a lull) I was disappointed to find that though each dish was beautifully plated, the newness and originality of the flavors that had been so impressive on our initial visits, seemed sub-par. I am by no means implying that the entrees were horrible. On the contrary, they were all very good….solid even, but that’s it.

The best of the entrees (three of which were fish) was a Cider Brined Pork Chop served with delicately braised Red Cabbage, Roasted Pears and topped with a slightly sweet cider jus. This was a wonderfully executed dish, but being that we generally come here for all things “coastal”, it seemed strange that the pig won the day.

So, as we fast forward to the present, it seems that while the opulence and grandeur of the dining room remains, the innovation and excitement of the menu seems to have lost a bit of it’s luster. DC Coast remains to be a crowd favorite, and is still an excellent choice for impressing clients at those power luncheons. If you are looking for beautiful ambience and impressive architecture, this is definitely the place. But, if you’ve recently dined at many of DC’s newer and upcoming establishments, you might agree that the level of service and simplicity of the menu could use a bit of a facelift.

DC Coast

1401 K Street, NW

Washington, DC

202.216.5988

www.dccoast.com

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As the bitter cold takes over any inclination I have to either grocery shop or cook, I recently went and had the pleasure of accompanying friends to one of Bethesda’s favorite Asian eateries. Raku, the sister restaurant to Dupont Circle’s more casual Asian diner, continues to be one of the more consistent establishments among the now popular Asian fusion trend. And, if my word doesn’t convince you of Raku’s popularity, try dining there any evening between 6-8pm. You’ll be lucky to find a table, let alone a seat away from the overflowing door.

Though seated before the rush, our party of three was unfortunately seated directly at the entrance amidst the growing crowds of other patrons eagerly awaiting a table themselves. This not only “graced” us with an unwelcome gust of cold air every time the door opened, but it also created an uncomfortable invasion of our personal space. All of a sudden, we became more of a dining exhibition, with other patrons looking over our shoulders and getting quite cozy at the table.

But, regardless, we pressed on and decided to order. Since it was quite chilly outside, and at the time I was struggling with a winter-variety virus, I decided to order from the Thai portion of the menu, choosing one of my favorite soups, Coconut Red Curry Noodle Soup. A beautiful combination of coconut milk, red curry, bean sprouts, snow peas, cabbage and a choice of either, beef or chicken, and udon, egg or buckwheat noodles. My choice? The beef with egg noodles-extra egg noodles.

From the moment it arrived, I was pleasantly overcome with the warmth and flavor of my red curry soup. Served in a large, overflowing bowl, it almost caused me to forget, momentarily, about my usual favorite: Vietnamese pho75 soup, #9 Regular. At first bite, I became entranced in the wonderfully spicy and sweet coconut broth, so flavorful that even my sad, dysfunctional taste buds rejoiced.

Serving everything from pad thai to sushi, Raku definitely makes the mark. It’s fun and sleek design, with giant chopsticks scattered above, creates a warm “neighborhood” feel that only Bethesda can acheive. Though the crowds can be a damper on both ambience and service, the food never fails to satiate even the pickiest lovers of true Asian cuisine. I point this out, not to diminish the quality of Raku’s dishes, but to illustrate that while many of the dishes stay true to their origin, there still exists the occasional shift toward that Asian fusion we all know and love.

Raku Bethesda

7240 Woodmont Ave

Bethesda, MD 20814

(301) 718-8680

Tis’ the season to be jolly, and comfortably fed!  As the winter and holiday season are now coming to a close, it seems fitting to write about the new addition to DC’s growing restaurant scene.  Just a few days ago, I quite surprisingly found myself engaged, and celebrating at the Founding Farmers.  Opening its doors only months ago, this soon-to-be foodie favorite is certainly earning its new found fame.  Offering a plethora of locally grown and farm raised products; this is quickly becoming a “must-try” for anyone seeking a hearty plate of comfort food. 

From fried green tomatoes to Southern-style fried chicken and waffles, it would seem impossible for one to leave hungry. 

Even for our vegetarian friends, the menu offers a delicious penne pasta, served with the season’s freshest veggie selection!

Beautifully crafted and certified as a “Green Restaurant”, Founding Farmers not only serves you “from farm-to-table”, but it also inspires diners with its noted dedication to our struggling environment.  High efficiency light bulbs, solar-generated energy and the use of recycled paper products are but a few examples of their exemplary strides in becoming the Green Restaurant of Washington, DC.

Now that the New Year is upon us and those dreary, cold winter days loom around the corner, it’s good to know that we can retreat to the doors of our Founding Farmers for a warm and comforting home-style meal. 

Founding Farmers

1924 Pennsylvania Ave, NW

Washington, DC 20006

202.822.TRUE

www.wearefoundingfarmers.com

As a homegrown Texan, one of the biggest hurdles I leapt when I moved to our nation’s capital was finding worthy replacements for my BBQ and Tex-Mex cravings.  Now, as I find myself on the brink of becoming “half-New Englander”, it is comforting to know that those from the northeast who are seeking fried clams and lobster rolls can find refuge right among the streets of Georgetown.  

Tackle Box, the neighbor and sister restaurant to the fancier, Hook Restaurant, offers a wonderful seafood selection of New England favorites.  Though located amidst the hustle and bustle of M Street’s endless pubs and boutiques, Tackle Box is able to capture the feel of a beachfront eatery, complete with fishing nets and wooden picnic tables.  Our order(s) of the day?  We started off with a Clam Strip Roll, served with a hefty side of homemade fries.  They also offer the ever famous Lobster roll, but we wanted to have some variety (and save a few bucks).

Next, we moved onto the Fisherman’s Maine Meal, complete with Speckled Trout and our choice of two sides.  We chose the classic mac n’ cheese and coleslaw.  This daily combo comes with your choice fish, prepared to order with your choice of sauce and two sides for the bargain price of $13.99!  I know it’s sacrilege as a foodie to claim Kraft as my favorite mac n’cheese, but I must admit– this was pretty delicious!

 And, of course, last, but certainly not least, we come to dessert.  Cited as one of DC’s Best Blueberry Pie, this was another great call.  Though I’m not a huge fan of Maine’s popular harvest, this blueberry pie packs in such fresh and natural blueberry flavor, it’s hard to resist!  And for those blueberry lovers out there- check out this pic!!  How many pies have you seen pack in that many berries??  

So, as for all you New England fans out there who are searching for your Lobster fix,look no further!  Tackle Box is the one and only LobsterShack in DC and serves everything your Northeastern heart could ever desire!! Foodies, keep a look out for this one–its definitely here to stay!

Word to the wise:  At the present time, liquor is still pending, so as unfortunate as it is that you can’t enjoy a nice Otter Creek with your oyster roll, it is still worth the trip!

Tackle Box

3245 M St NW

Washington, DC 20007

(202) 337-8269

www.tacklebox-dc.com

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Only days away from our country’s most historical Presidential Inauguration and the entire District of Columbia is coming out to celebrate. Still searching for the perfect way to celebrate this weekend?  Look no further!!  Below is a brief compilation of just a few of the biggest and best events taking place in our nation’s capital.

Sunday, January 18, 2009
We Are One: Opening Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial
Featuring an unending list of huge stars, including Beyonce, U2 and Mary J. Blige!
Doors open: 8:00 AM
Event Begins: 2:30 PM
Location: The Lincoln Memorial, between Constitution Avenue NW and Independence Avenue SW on 23rd Street
This event is free and open to the public 

Monday, January 19, 2009
Kid’s Inaugural: We Are the Future
Concert for America’s Children
Doors Open: 5:00 PM
Event Begins 7:00 PM
Location: Verizon Center
Please visit www.pic2009.org for more information about the event.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Inauguration of the 44th President of the United States: Barack Obama
Swearing-In Ceremony and Inaugural Address
Gates open: 8:00 AM
Location: US Capitol, West Front

If you’re able to get into town, (and you’ll only be able to by chartered bus or train), get down to DC and witness history!  Just be sure to look up security measures, metro and bridge closures and bundle up–it’s cold out there!!

In the midst of DC’s Penn Quarter, the creators of Oya bring us yet another upcoming hot spot to satiate our Asian cravings!  Sei, the newest addition to my sushi favorites hits the DC scene offering a huge array of modern Asian cuisine.  Hiding in between DC’s Landsburgh Theatre and the stomping grounds of Jaleo, Sei opens it’s doors with the same sleek and chic style as it’s nearby sibling.  Offering intimate seating and a comfy sushi bar, Sei’s dimly lit corners and glamorous white leather seating will surely welcome its guests for years to come.  

Break open the menu, and one will find an endless selection of sake as well as both creative and traditional sushi rolls, nigiri and entrees.  As I tend to indulge more in sushi rice than that in sake, I chose a sampling of sushi rolls.  Want to start your sushi with a little salad?  Try the Caesar Roll.  This playful take on the traditional Caesar salad is a delightful (and vegetarian) option for those who find themselves a bit queasy at the sight of all things raw.  Want to be adventurous?  Start with the Fish n’ Chips.  This delectable creation is the perfect combination of….well, actually, I don’t know what– but, I’ll be honest– it is exactly what you would imagine fish n’ chips to taste like in one, perfect bite. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for this one!

Want to add a little more protein to your sushi diet?  Try the Kobe Tataki.  Thinly sliced Kobe, topping a spicy cucumber salmon roll with Cilantro Wasabi.  In the words of Hillshire Farm, GO Meat! (Sorry, I coudn’t resist– I absolutely LOVE those commercials)  But, I digress.   The picture may not do it justice, but if that doesn’t convince you– we chose this as our dessert.  What can I say, those sushi rolls just keep calling my name!

Moving on from the sushi menu, the drink menu is not sake-exclusive.  On the contrary, there is a solid selection of creative cocktails and beers to choose from. Our libation choices of the evening?  Asian Pear Mojito and Japan’s own microbrew, Hitachino White Ale.  Who said the Belgian’s were the only ones who knew how to brew?

And so, if you feel like you’ve tried all that Penn Quarter has to offer, or you just can’t seem to get that reservation into Oya, walk on over to Sei.  It’s the smaller and cuter version of it’s older counterpart, yet offers the same creative culinary edge and sophisticated, intimate style.  The sake is flowing and the sushi is rolling, so get out of your comfort zone and try DC’s newest fusion sanctuary!!

Sei Restaurant and Lounge

444 7th Street NW

Washington, DC 20004

(202) 783-7007

www.seirestaurant.com

It’s that time of year again!  All of the heart-shaped boxes and schmoopy cards and the like are in full swing!  Want a little candlelight and romance?  Need a last minute reservation for those romantic dinners?  Check out opentable.com and see what they have available for a late night rendevous!

 http://www.opentable.com/promo.aspx?m=9&ref=2138&pid=102

Or, are you tired of all the Valentine’s fuss and want to simplify things?  Join me on a DC Cupcake tour and indulge in some of the city’s best!  From Baked and Wired, to Georgetown Cupcake, there are more than enough cupcake shops to satisfy even the biggest sweet tooth!   Check out these links and grab some mini sweets to brighten your day!

www.georgetowncupcake.com

www.bakedandwired.com

www.hellocupcakeonline.com

Whether you’re happy with cupid or not, there’s always room for cupcakes!  Enjoy and Happy Valentine’s Day!!

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So, if you are like me and countless others, last week may have been a bit of a blur; and the current state of our economy may have prevented you from venturing out on the town to celebrate in DC’s long awaited Restaurant Week. And, if this does apply to you, you may realize that this past Sunday was the last day of such a celebrated, discounted-foodie-time. Alas, fear not! There are select groups of DC’s best that have decided to save us, and prolong this blessed time. For further details, or to make your reservations, go to www.opentable.com!

Choose from the list below and sample a tasting of their delectable menus for half the price!

1789

701
Adour
Agraria
Ardeo
BlackSalt
Bombay Club
Cafe Atlantico
Cafe BonaparteCircle Bistro
Dino
Domaso
Farrah Olivia

Georgia Brown’s

Hook
Il Mulino
IndeBleu
Jackson 20
Jaleo – Bethesda, Crystal City, Downtown
La Tomate
Nage (Extending until March 1st)
New Heights (2 weeks)
Oval Room
Overwood

Oyamel

Perry’s
Petit Plats
Prime Rib
PS7′s
Rasika
Urbana
Vermillion
Willow
Zaytinya
Zola