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Top chef Ris Lacoste is in top form at this formal restaurant, whose clubby ambience attracts diplomats, socialites and administration elite, who thank God they belong to this club. Chesapeake Bay crab is the thing here, soft-shelled in the spring, or as meaty crab cakes when the weather is less hospitable. And then, how do these sound: oyster and Champagne stew, rack of lamb perched happily over a heady Merlot sauce, and to finish, white chocolate and Grand Marnier parfait – enticing, eh?
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Andale is located along a stretch of 7th St. that includes art galleries, the Shakespeare Theatre, and federal and other office buildings, so you’ll see a bunch of different types here. This is authentic regional Mexican cuisine, as interpreted by chef Allison Swope. Everyone goes for the salsas, guacamole, and margaritas, naturally, but also for specialties, such as the leg of lamb roasted in avocado leaves. Swope can’t be happy that Rosa Mexicano (see review below) opened up the street from her, but so far Andale is holding its own.
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OK, this is Tex-Mex, not Mex-Mex, for all you purists. But Austin Grill does turn out some mean fajitas (especially the carne asada), enchiladas, quesadillas, in a room, whose décor of cowboy memorabilia and artwork gets the conversation going. The downtown location is just one of several Austin Grills in the area, testament to their popularity. Ask about specials, which usually include some sort of fish entrée, and it’s usually good.
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American chef Jeff Buben has created an authentic French restaurant, where you can order bouillebaisse, steak frites, seared scallops provençale, and be assured that your dish will taste of France. Situated in the Hotel George, a short walk from the halls of Congress, Bis serves senators, congresspersons, and lobbyists daily for lunch and dinner. It’s a place to see and be seen, and it’s just plain fun.
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Another bistro, this one serving the dishes of the Languedoc region in France, in sunny, brightly painted rooms on two floors. Cassoulet is a specialty, along with the pot au feu and mussels in cream sauce. Even a simple salad of haricots verts, avocado, and tomato is delicious. Bistrot D’OC is a good choice for theatre-goers, located as it is a few blocks from the National and Shakespeare theatres, and directly across from Ford’s. Weekend brunch brings out families and young singles while dinner attracts an older following.
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