Food Field Trip Hawaii: Chapter 3 (Merriman's)

My favorite dining experience on Big Island (two years in a row) was not what I would have imagined; it's not a classic eatery on the coast with the sun gently setting, but instead a place located in the gateway to the mountainous (and rainy) side of the island: Merriman’s.

Peter Merriman pioneered the local sustainable food movement on Big Island a few decades ago. Pioneered is the operative word given Merriman’s location in Waimea, the home of the historic Parker Ranch, whose rustic green pastures look like they belong in the Western U.S. Back in 1988 when opening Merriman's, Peter Merriman was described as "a gourmet in cowboy country." Still true today.

Waimea is 10-15 degrees colder than the leeward coast and it rains a lot. But we were lucky enough to follow a rainbow up from the coast, and the pot of gold at the end was worth it! Merriman’s excels not only at the local sourcing of nearly its entire food menu but in ambiance, service, wine selection, and the dishes themselves.



Before you walk in, there's a an adjacent garden containing everything from bananas to tomatoes. The arched room, open kitchen, and indoor herb garden are quite soothing. There is some minimal island flair; petroglyph candles (above) adorn each table, offset by white linens and nice stemware.

The waitstaff are some of the best I have encountered anywhere. Immensely knowledgeable, helpful, enthusiastic, and yet unobtrusive. We began with the mai tai I previously reviewed. After hearing the extensive specials we decided to sample as much as possible and ordered both an appetizer and a salad to share. We also let our server select a white wine to go with the appetizer and a red for the main courses, and she chose well.



These tarot fritters were very good, but not great. They needed more of the promised jalapeno kick, but the accompanying goat cheese, beats, and goat cheese fondue really made the dish click.

Next, we devoured olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressed local tomatoes and Maui onions. This was our first taste of farm-fresh tomatoes since last fall and we savored every bit of this dish (not pictured).



Look at how beautiful this entrée is. This was one of the evening’s specials, a Hawaiian swordfish served over a pea risotto offset with plump clams and fresh tomatoes in a beurre blanc sauce. The fish was moist, tender, and wonderful. I love this particular fish and though I had a great cut at Dino a few months back, this particular preparation was the best I have ever tasted, a notch even above Dino's.

B also opted for the special, but chose to stay on land. He went with the local lamb prepared two ways: an exotic Hungarian style, and classic lamb shoulder in a rich pan sauce. The dish was accompanied by a custard. Together the elements were rich and tender and really, a fitting way to showcase the varied flavors and textures of the lamb. As a side note, a few nights earlier I was disappointed to learn--given the relatively extensive local product available--that the Jean Georges Kauai Grill sources their lamb from Australia!

This picture of dessert is underwhelming, but the taste was anything but. The quality of chocolate in this "Fallen Souffle" was incredible, and the oozing texture and classic vanilla ice cream was classic. Our waitress candidly told us that the souffle is considered 'fallen' so as not to require 30+ minutes of baking time.

This was a great experience, and one which we almost skipped owing to the 25-minute drive from the Kohala coast. If you can get to Merriman's, you will not be disappointed. Reservations are recommended if not essential. Dinner for two with a split mai tai, two glasses of wine each, appetizer, salad, two entrees, dessert, tax, and tip was $195. Merriman's also has locations on Kauai and Maui.

Food Field Trip: Chapter 2 (Tuna in Kauai)

One of my favorite parts of eating in Hawaii is the wide variety of unique, freshly-caught fish, like Ono, Walu, Opakapaka, and Hawaiian Swordfish. And I sure partook in all these options and will share the highlights in another chapter. But above all, I had my share of a myriad of tuna dishes.

Here are a few of the standouts. Mercury aside, they were all fresher than anything I've had comparable on the mainland!

Our hotel's Bar Menu -- Tuna tartare served over avocado topped with radish and floating in a wasabi soy broth. The fish was very tender and the flavors and textures co-mingled well. The dish did a little dance on my tongue.

At the hotel again, but this time the first course of the tasting menu at the recently opened restaurant on the property, Jean Georges' Kauai Grill. This was the best dish of the entire trip. Big-eye Ahi lightly crusted in what? served on what? I cannot recall (must have been one too many mai tais or the nice and reasonably priced Chilean red wines we had with dinner), which saddens me because the dish really was out of this world, in both the quality of the ingredients and their preparation. A note to the St. Regis, if anyone there (i.e. no one) is reading this: please put restaurant menus up online!

The final three tuna selections came from Hanalei Dolphin, a delightful, no-reservations sushi and seafood restaurant on the Hanalei River in "downtown" Hanalei.

At lunch, the restaurant's retail shop serves massive sushi rolls. Pictured here is the Dolphin Roll, which was a combination of spicy tuna with snow crab. The tuna was the freshest I've had in sushi, which was contrasted nicely with the sweetness and texture of the snow crab; the wasabi soy dipping sauce was also excellent. I loved eating lunch watching the longboarders roll down the river. B and I shared the roll and paired it with some smoothies from a walk-up stand up the street for a perfect bite on a hot day. What I also found somewhat unbelievable--given all the rumors about the supposed outrageous prices in Hawaii--was that this massive roll was only $9.

We loved the sushi so much at lunch that we came back the next night to the restaurant for dinner. And it did not disappoint. We snagged a table on the porch, ordered a few local beers, and B dug into an tender teriyaki glazed tuna steak, the house special.

I opted to go with the sushi again and adored the spicy tuna roll. Look at the quantity and color of that gorgeous, prepared to order roll served with actual (not the common horseradish-laden manufactured) wasabi.

Tuna fix -- complete!

Food Field Trip Hawaii: Chapter 1 (Cocktails)

Aloha. After a few days back on the mainland, I figured the best place to start with any food field trip report is at the beginning of the menu--cocktails. And after my first day back in the office in two weeks I could really use a drink; if only I could enjoy one of these:

Kauai: St. Regis Princeville -- Pineapple Mojito

The view in the background is Hanalei Bay on the Kauai's Northshore; with the mountains, clouds, and gently setting sun, the setting was truly unreal and my cocktail--the first I drank upon arriving on the island-- was sublime. This take on the classic mojito mixed muddled pineapple, mint leaves, simple sugar, club soda and a splash of freshly squeezed pineapple juice. I was afraid that this combination might be cloyingly sweet, but it was indeed crisp and refreshing with just a hint of the tropical sugar. Just be ready for the $14 price tag, but remember the glass is large and the view is included!

Big Island: Merriman's -- Classic Mai Tai

What's a bigger Hawaiian cliche than Don Ho and leis... the mai tai. But this take on the Aloha's state's official cocktail includes freshly squeezed pineapple juice and Maui rum. Just as with the the food on Merriman's menu, it is locally sourced as well as tasty and potent. The one pictured above is a half portion. Yes, there is an umbrella, but the full portion is even better and is served in a giant tiki jar. This drink was an ideal finish to a day in the equatorial sun and a start to a memorable meal. A full review of Merriman's is forthcoming.

Big Island: Kona Brewing Company

If beer is more your style, the Kona Brewing Company has got you covered. For between $5 - 7 pint, you can enjoy what has come to be one of my favorite craft beers. The beer is fresh, hoppy, and frankly delicious. As evidence of how much we love these beers, our first stop before heading to the hotel was to the Brewery for a pint and a growler to go, and our last stop before a red-eye was for the beers pictured above: the Black Sand Porter and Wailua Wheat. And I have spotted Kona Brewing Company's classics--though brewed on the mainland--at some area bars.

Until the next chapter, Aloha!

Aloha

With my MBA finally complete (nearly five years since beginning it), B and I are heading to Hawaii for a week of sun, snorkeling, and--hopefully--fantastic food finds.

Last March, thanks to a work award we were fortunate to both spend a week on the Big Island. I can honestly say it was the only trip I have ever been on, including Paris, where we did not have one bad meal!




(Brown's Beach House, Big Island)



(Merriman's Big Island)

So while this blog is going into hibernation for the next week, look for a Food Field Trip posting soon--maybe a rundown of the culinary offerings on Kauai, perhaps a review of one or two favorites pictured above, or who knows what else!

Aloha!

Capital's Cape Cod?

Hank's Oyster Bar is quite the rare find here; it's small, unpretentious, and actually worth the long wait that one often encounters at the 30 seat original Dupont location. As the name implies the focus is on the sea, but carnivores will find one (yes, just one) daily special that originated on land.

I love this space and the food, especially in the spring. So on a beautiful Lenten Friday last week we stopped by for a 6:30 dinner. On this particular night, service was harried; only two servers covered the dining room and the 20 plus seats on the outdoor patio. They did their best, but it was not the best service we have received here.

On the other hand, the food was fantastic, and was everything fried seafood should be. My only complaint was we ordered too much! When you sit down you are immediately served goldfish--quirky, yes, but it works. The wine list, is small, but reasonably priced. And the oyster list changes each day; at $2 each, it is a great deal for what you're getting.

We started with six oysters from Washington State and Virginia paired with a California Chardonnay. I loved the subtle, salty contrast between varieties.

For entrees, we both went with fried fare, and this is where Hank's really shines. I had the Calamari and Popcorn shrimp, the latter of which was nothing like the fast food variety; both were lightly battered, fried just right, and served with a spicy aioli. And somehow the shrimp were fried without being overcooked -- a rare feat! B opted for the fried oysters and was greeted with a mound of battered, fried, salty oysters, and hand-cut fries.

And this is where we failed -- we also got clam chowder and macaroni and cheese to share. Way too much food! But B adored the combination of cheddar and smoked gouda over the macaroni. It was a bit too oily for my liking, but it did have a rich depth of flavor.

Go early on a weekend night with a small party to avoid an ungodly wait.

Dinner for two with a bottle of Chardonnay, tax, and tip was $115.

Lunch Break: Cowgirl Creamery

Cowgirl Creamery, a California-based cheese boutique landed on F Street a few years ago and showcases a variety of artisan, aromatic, and expensive cheeses as well as a limited selection of meats, wines, and craft beers. They also sell sandwiches, the variety of which change daily.

Today we had the fourth straight day of perfect DC spring weather, so I decided to grab a sandwich and eat outdoors. I opted for the day's special, which was comprised of Cowgirl Creamery's St. Pat's cheese (similar in mouth feel and taste to a triple cream), marinated artichokes, kalamata olives, and mixed field greens. The bread texture was similar to a Parisian baguette minus the floured surface.

One bite and I immediately was transported to Napa Valley. The creaminess of the cheese contrasted with saltiness of the olives and perfectly marinated artichokes and was reminiscent of the sandwiches which we had at the Oakville Grocery during our trip to the area two falls ago. The bread was chewy but fresh-baked. It would have paired perfectly with a glass of Chardonnay, but it was a weekday and I was eating on a bench outside the restaurant (reality), so that was not an option. On the upside the people-watching was pretty good.

With tax the generous sandwich was $8.50 and I was able to finish a little over half. This is an extremely flavorful sandwich and a great way to sample some great cheese that may be too strong to eat on its own.

I knew lunch was over when a homeless man sat down beside me and the smell definitely confirmed I am in fact in DC and not Napa!

A Trusty DC Favorite

Tosca is one of my favorite restaurants in DC, yet this is the first time I am posting about it because I haven't visited in almost six months, which was prior to the inauguration of this blog. But last night my boss E was kind enough to treat my work team to a celebratory dinner.

Tosca is located in the Metro Center area and is easy to miss; its nondescript entrance is heavily curtained to ensure maximum privacy for its weeknight patrons, who consist of a bunch of self-important K Streeters and other politicos.

B and I discovered this place about three years ago during Restaurant Week; yes, despite my previous rant, Restaurant Week can have a positive outcome! Tosca actually offers a three- course special--if ordered before 7pm--every night year-round except holidays for $35 which includes most of the best items on their regular menu.

Last night was the first time I did not get the tender pillows of goodness that are the veal ravioli. This was a real departure for me, since they are one of my favorite bites in DC. But, I decided to be bold and instead started with the truffle butter seared foie gras over lentils. The dish was rich and flavorful, but I think it could have benefited from an accompaniment other than lentils which just added to its heft. I had the lobster risotto for a main course. The risotto was fabulous, cooked al dente, and included large chunks of tender lobster, a touch of saffron, and a fantastic fried parsley garnish. Both choices were very good, but I have to say, neither was as spectacular as the veal ravioli.

I started with a perfect Kir Royale and then a less than stellar (especially for the price) glass of Barbaresco. The value on bottles are slightly better than on the glass, and their list has a handful of good picks for under $50.

For dessert I am also a creature of habit; Tosca's twist on tiramisu is closer to a mousse, served up in a martini glass. Last night though I opted for the rice pudding instead with vanilla infused kumquats, which was pretty much a let down. However, I did devour the house-made apricot jellies that were served at the end of dinner. These were bursting with apricot flavor and then had the tang of a sour patch kid. How often do you get that combination?

Tosca has the best Northern Italian dishes I've yet to find in DC and the service is flawless. And the pre-7pm prix-fix deal is one of the best values at any place in the area.

Sunny Skies and Sweet Treats

The yogurt of my dreams is a whipped, rich, creamy soft-serve--much more like ice cream and lacks the tang of real yogurt.

Today I treated myself to a rare afternoon snack at a self-serve yogurt shop, were you could pick from nearly twenty flavors lining one wall and massive tubs to fill. And a topping bar on the back wall that ranges from healthy fruits to peanut butter cups. My one complaint: no cookie dough! TCBY had it!

But the dearth of this topping aside, one of the best parts of this set up is that they charge by the ounce. Today I only wanted a sampling and was able to get a delightful peanut butter and cookies and cream twist with a touch of peanut butter cups for $2.12.

For what feels like the first time in years, the sun was shining brightly in DC today and temperatures hit the 60's. By no means balmy, but in my mind enough to justify a stop in at the newest downtown yogurt venture: FroZenYo.

The place first caught my eye and ear a few weeks ago with a cheesy banner for a sign and loud pop music blasting onto the sidewalk. The shop is between one of those terrifying warehouse size gift shops near Ford's Theatre and American Apparel, but the inside is ultra-modern. But the contemporary appeal stops there; unlike the fad of all-natural, not-too-sweet swath of yogurt shops sweeping D.C. and elsewhere along the East Coast, this place is the real old school-style frozen yogurt.

So does life get better in DC?! Not today, at least for those of us that like a taste of the old-school frozen yogurt. If you have a sweet tooth I recommend it. I will be back especially because it is close to my work and the metro. Dangerous.

Cristina's, at Last

Having good friends move to faraway lands is usually an incentive to explore new places. Last week, we were treated to our first glimpse at solid red sauce Italian in the DC area; since moving here from Boston some five years ago, we have been furiously searching out red sauce establishment in the area, albeit with mostly lackluster results.

Last week some good friends coaxed us to traveling across state (and DC) lines to Wheaton to try Cristina’s, a Mom-and-Pop establishment, where the latter smiled broadly at our friends, regulars there, when we all entered. While the interior is akin to a Papa Gino’s (loud Venetian fresco wall paper et al.), I was actually reassured to see this; sometimes the cheesier the better when it comes to Italian-American.

But questionable decor aside, Cristina’s really shines on the requisite Italian-American fare. I had the chicken parmesan, B the veal saltimbocca. Both were tender, perfectly pan-fried, smothered in good mozzarella and crispy pancetta respectively, and then topped with tasty red sauce for the chicken, wine reduction for the veal. Entrees (which come with a salad that's not all that impressive) are priced at $15 - $20.

But my favorite part of the meal was dessert. The four of us shared a massive cloud of creamy, rich old-school style tiramisu.

This restaurant is a little outside the bounds of my usual geographic radius, but is worth a try if you are in the area. Easily the best classic Italian-American restaurant we've discovered in the greater DC metro area.

Lunch Break: Tackle Box

So about a month ago I intended to do this segment maybe once a week or so and since then, regretfully...crickets. But my recent lunches have not warranted a write-up: Lean Cuisine is hardly even food, and the commonplace jaunt to Potbelly or Chipotle, while satisfying, seemed to fall short.

Friday I took a much needed day off. As part of this escape, I planned a stop in Georgetown at Tackle Box, one of my favorite lunch places. While I prefer company at dinner, there is something rejuvenating about taking time by myself at lunch to relax, read, and think while enjoying a good bite.

Tackle Box is owned by creators of its more upscale neighbor Hook and bills itself as DC's only lobster shack. The interior is filled with red picnic tables for communal eating with a long counter along the far side of the space perfect for solo dining. The chalkboard menu consists of the standard New England clam shack fare, but the true stars are the fish selections, prepared grilled or crispy with a choice of house-made sauces. Sides range from asparagus and broccoli to sweet potato fries.

The prices aren't cheap, and the portions aren't huge, but the food is fresh and flavorful. A Tackle Box meal with a fish, side, and sauce is $9 or for $13 the Maine meal includes an additional side.

On Friday, I had the crispy calamari with spicy marinara sauce and a side of macaroni and cheese. The calamari where thickly cut rings and tentacles served with a smattering of hot peppers. They were tender with a nice crisp too them and a lot of heat between the peppers and the marinara. I find the macaroni goes from good to great with a few shakes of the Tackle Box seasoning. I really enjoyed both while watching foot traffic along M Street from my perch in the window.

The crowd on this day was decidedly Georgetown with its mix of amazingly svelte moms and a slew of nannies and baby carriages. Mercifully all the kids were pretty well-behaved. On weekends the crowd skews older with more professionals, tourists, and a few students, and it is much more crowded.

My one complaint about this place is the temperature. In the summer this place is about ten degrees too hot and in the winter so cold that you have to keep your jacket on. My hunch is this is intentional to keep people moving, but it does take away from the overall experience.

Lunch with a perfectly carbonated fountain Diet Coke (I fancy myself a connoisseur of fountain Diet Coke) was $12.50.

American Flatbread: Pretty Good Pizza

Sunday night, our condo building experienced a power outage--due to a suicidal squirrel--so cooking the roast chicken we had planned for dinner that night was no longer viable. Not in the mood for bar-food, but not looking for anything too fancy, we decided to give American Flatbread a try.

First referenced in a post a few weeks back, American Flatbread occupies a relatively new commercial strip in the Zoso apartment building in Clarendon. The interior set up is a bit awkward, and the décor is not my favorite. The space is a mix of laminate floors, antique chandeliers hanging from a lofted ceiling with exposed ducts, a visibile dishwashing area, and an open kitchen containing a self-proclaimed "primitive" (?!) oven.

This Vermont-based chain's claim to fame is what most would describe as pizza, all of which which range from $14 - $22. You can also split any flatbread between two of the 8 or so options or create your own. A flatbread easily feeds two people, so we opted to split one, with half pepperoni and peppers, half 'Punctuated Equilibrium' (olives, red peppers, Glen Farms goat cheese, rosemary, red onions, mozzarella, and garlic). The menu also contains a a handful of salads, though we did not try any.

The standout here is the organic and local ingredients. The pepperoni was spicy and quite flavorful; the sauce on its half of the pizza also had a nice bite to it. The other half was a white pizza with intense rosemary and goat cheese flavor punctuated (hence the name I guess) by the saltiness of the olives and the sweetness of the red peppers. The crust is flavorful and chewy, with a very slight char.

I was impressed by their craft beer selection on tap and really enjoyed a $6 pint of the Flying Dog's "In Heat Wheat." B seemed to enjoy the extra-hoppy Heavy Seas Loose Cannon Hop3 Ale.

Though the ambiance leaves a lot to be desired, the flatbreads are some of the best pizza available in Arlington, the price is right, and the beer selection--though limited--is quite unique. I will be back.

Dinner for two with a shared flat bread, four pints (we were thirsty), tax, and tip was $48.

Trying Ris

(Photo: Washington Post)

It feels like ages since we've gone out and enjoyed a new restaurant. Honest! This is not for lack of places springing up all over DC, but rather our time and general tendency to gravitate to old standbys. But Saturday we broke from this pattern and tried Ris. The brainchild and namesake of former 1789 chef Ris Lacoste, the place garnered appetizing initial reviews and has reportedly been in the works since 2005.

It was worth the wait! The food was fantastic, the pacing not rushed, and the service was solid.

After a long Saturday spent working, we had a 7pm reservation, but the presence of the generally 60+ aged crowd made it feel earlier. The restaurant is located at 2275 L St., on an obscure block in the District's West End. The space is quite nice inside: candle-lit, warm, with dark brown and off-white leather furnishings, lots of booths, and a rich maroon wall paper accented by gold flowers.

The service from the start was attentive but not obtrusive, and while our waiter was stumped by the origin of the scallops and dessert wine selections, he quickly got the answers, and proposed that we sample one of the wines before opting for the glass.

We decided to start with a glass of champagne. B went for a prosecco, while I opted for a brut rose. These were the perfect elixirs to a stressful weekend, and well priced at $10 and $12. The wine list by the glass was quite good, and we both enjoyed excellent, full-bodied selections of an Italian syrah and a California petite sirah later on in the evening.

The menu offers about ten choices for starters and entrees, with a handful of nightly specials. To start, we both went with a soup, the perfect medicine for this cold DC winter. I opted one of the specials: New England Chowder. The chowder was traditional style, but adding to the richness of the cream-based soup, was a pad of butter served atop. The broth was rich and probably did not need the extra butter. But the clams were tender and succulent and their flavor tinged the celery and potatoes commingling in the broth. B went with the French onion soup, which was jam-packed with what else, but onions. It was a wonderful and authentic starter that reminded us of the soup we enjoyed at Le Nord in Lyon this past fall.

We continued to on with rich food choices when we moved to our entrees. I had the lamb shank pictured above. Until this dish, I did not think that Central's lamb shank could be topped. This succulent piece of meat changed that; the generous portion of lamb is perfectly caramelized on the outside and fork tender and juicy under the skin. Served atop chick peas, its richness is offset by mint, yogurt, pine nuts, and pomegranate seeds; the latter adds color and a literal burst of flavor. B had the cider glazed pork chop with collard greens, apple-cornbread pudding, shell-beans with bacon and bourbon sauce. The pork was tender and had a perfect sear which sealed in the juices. The sides on their own were also flavorful and well executed. This dish did not come together like the lamb, but was nonetheless, a good bet for a cold evening.

We ended the meal with a unique creation: German chocolate mousse cake with roasted banana sauce. While the dessert was dense, it was a fantastic mix of flavor and textures.

I really like this restaurant. In a city with few regaled female chefs, Ris gives the boys a run for their money. I look forward to heading back. Dinner for two with multiple glasses of wine, two starters, two entrees, a shared dessert, tax and tip was $175.

Does the 1000 Block of North Fillmore Have Promise?

For the past four years this block in the center of Clarendon wavered between luxury condo and luxury apartment construction. But two years ago, the tanking housing market 'converted' condo high rises into luxury apartments, finally open now. Thanks to the zoning system in North Arlington, the ground floor of these buildings is reserved for retail, which is filling up with some interesting eating and drinking options.

I am most excited that Artisan Confections opened its new location in this spot. This small-batch chocolate shop opened a few years ago on Lee Highway. Unlike its original location, which was adjacent to an Indian grocer, in its new home location all you can smell is the chocolate. And trust me, this is a much better smell. There's also a large viewing window so you can see the chocolates being freshly made before your very eyes.

Their chocolates are both beautiful and fantastic tasting. Combinations include bourbon, salted caramel, and champagne. The quality of the cacao is top-notch, the presentation is gorgeous, and the price matches at about $2 per piece. They are worth it though and make a great gift.

Located a few doors down is another confection incubator, Bakeshop. While this shop seems like it could have potential, my initial impressions raise some troubling questions. When we walked in today at 1:30pm, the only thing that was available other than coffee was about a dozen lemon poppy seed cookies. The cupcakes would not be ready for a few hours. Seriously? A cupcake shop without cupcakes? Why even open? Since they are close I will likely swing by in a few weeks and give it another try. But in talking to the owner it sounds like he needs to get his stuff together. I can't imagine the rent is all that cheap; I am by no means an expert at food retail but my MBA-student sense tells me that opening a store with not much to sell does not make much marketing sense to me.

This block also offers the savory; Screwtop is a wine bar/retail shop that opened a few weeks ago. The initial reviews are not overly promising; the space layout reportedly leaves much to be desired, and scoring a table on a crowded night is apparently an experience straight out of The Lord of the Flies. As a side note, this is also the approach EatBar takes, a gastropub a few blocks up the street. Having to fight for a table amid hungry and like Type-A Washingtonians saps away a great deal if not all of the relaxation out of my dining experience, even if the food is out of this world. When I stopped in Screwtop today just to check out their retail area, I thought the wine selection was unique if kind of pricey; however, they were offering free tastings in real glasses! They also have a selection of artisan cheeses, meats, and craft beer. But if the cost of, say, the Abita Purple Haze ($11.99 for a six pack!) is any indication of value, I'd rather skip this and go with Mark Slater's trusty selections from Ray's retail. And, seriously, don't insult my intelligence as a consumer, Screwtop--the same beer is available one block away at either Best Cellars or Wholefoods for $8.99 max, and less at Total Wine. The layout needs some work, but I just might try out the food at least before I completely write it off.

Rounding out this new corner is Amercian Flatbread, a micro-chain with locations in Virginia, Oregon, and Vermont. The interior looks like a chain, so I am in no rush to head there for dinner, but their six taps look promising with Bells, Dogfish Head, and other craft beers. They have happy hour week nights in the bar with $4 pints until 7:30pm. And a sign boasted of a so-called Ladies' Night on Thursdays with unnamed specials?

So my bottom culinary line on this block at this point: not the best combination of places, but not bad either. More to come from me once they are all up and running.

Mardi Gras Gris-Gris

If you are looking for ways to celebrate Fat Tuesday here in DC, Central is reportedly hosting a special party with live music. While last minute reservations are probably no doubt impossible to come by, there is usually ample space at the bar. Lower key celebrations not requiring reservations include Ragtime's annual celebration, with music, beads, and of course, Abita Beer.

We hosted our own (second) annual Mardi Gras party this weekend, complete with the to-die for (read: containing more butter than anyone person should ever eat) New Orleans BBQ Shrimp (above) and melt-in-your-mouth macaroons shipped in from the fantastic Uptown New Orleans bakery Sucre (below).

Happy Mardi Gras!

Consistently Delicious: Guajillo

This week in the DC area has been anything but normal. With another foot and a half of snow expected today on top of the 2 feet that is already on the ground, the region is at a virtual stand still. Because of the Federal government closures, B has been off, and I have been working from home. The result is that by the end of the day we are both itching to get out and are lucky enough to be able to walk to some great places.

Last night we headed to one of our standbys: Guajillo. While we visit often, I do not think I have given this place its due on my blog. The food is great, really authentic, and consistent. The service is also excellent, and the atmosphere is fun with brightly painted walls, comfortable stretched leather chairs, and a small bar up back.

I started with an excellent house margarita. Their drinks are strong, the sour mix is homemade (i.e., not fluorescent green) and the tequila selection is pretty decent. After a sip I momentarily forgot that we had to trudge back up a snow laden hill after dinner. B had the Dos Equis Amber, the one draft beer selection. And a fresh basket of chips with a spicy salsa soon arrived to compliment the drinks.

Last night was not a typical night at Guajillo due to the snow and some of the busboys were stepping up as waiters. While our busboy-turned-waiter's English was not the best, he had a great attitude and was knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the food. He also let us know Guajillo serves brunch, so now we are looking forward to a Sunday of huevos rancheros soon.

Last night there was a new option on the menu, a sampler of five tacos: roasted pork with pickled red onion, fish with cream sauce, lamb, pork with pineapple, and steak, all served on homemade corn tortillas with both red and green salsa on the side. I opted for this dish because I like everything I have ever tried at Guajillo and this allowed me the best of all worlds. It was fabulous. The fish was fresh and offset by red cabbage, the pork tender, and the lamb succulent. All five offered rich, varied flavors and I wish I had my camera with me, because the presentation was stellar. B opted for the beef enchiladas which were served with refried beans and rice.

It was a great meal and a tremendous value. The total with tax and tip was $52.

And an interesting note, while Guajillo was packed, Ray's Hellburger next door was almost empty. I think it is indicative of the fact that since Obama visited, patrons that drive in must predominate, and neighborhood folks might have given up due to the crowds. I am hoping the bigger Hellburger location solves this issue.

I was very happy with the our dinner and had enough energy to trudge back up the hill and stop into our local pub to meet fellow snowed-in neighbors for a nightcap.

Eating Around Blizzard 2010 Edition

I just ventured outside and was quite surprised by how much is actually open today. Very few cars, lots and lots of people, and almost every bar is open.

Here is the rundown:

Our go-to neighborhood bar is open. While their food has gone downhill as of late, this month's featured micro beer is Abita Turbo Dog which sounds pretty good on a day like this.

Despite massive snow drifts, both the Starbucks in Courthouse and Clarendon are open.

And this should not surprise anyone, but Ray's is open. And no, we are not headed there tonight, but if you have a hankering for a steak, I am guessing you can get a reservation.

And this one surprised me: Boccato Gelato, a fabulous Argentinaian-influenced gelateria was open and full of people swilling down hot beverages. This month they are paying homage to my childhood and showcasing Thin Mint and Samoa flavored gelati; we got a scoop of each in a pint to-go for dessert this evening.

Whole Foods was most certainly not open, so if you need groceries, the only option is Walgreens or CVS. No organic produce today!

Hopefully everyone stocked up before the snow. If not, plenty of beer awaits if you are brave enough to venture out (read: walk, driving is all but impossible). Stay warm.

Dino Revisited with a Verdict of Delightful

So you may recall that B and I visited Dino in December. While he was blown away, I was less than impressed. We went back last night, and I must say, my opinion has changed. Dino is very much a neighborhood restaurant, and after last night is coming really close to making my top five list. Why has my opinion changed? Two words: Hawaiian Swordfish.

But let me back up a bit first. At B's request, we headed back last night, a Tuesday. Our last visit was on a Friday night, which meant we missed the amazing deals Dino offers during the week. These include no corkage fee from Monday-Wednesday, which allowed us to enjoy the last bottle of wine we brought back from our 2007 trip to Tuscany. I actually give us a lot of credit; we have never been able to save a wine for more than two years. We thought we should enjoy this wine with rustic and authentic Italian food.

Also during the week, they offer a $37 three course meal that covers the entire menu and includes a glass of house made grappa, lemoncello, or muscato with dessert. They also offer a cheaper early bird option if you order by 7:00, which does not include the dessert beverage and is more restrictive with the entree choices.

Back to the swordfish. I opted for the more expensive tasting menu because of this dish and I was so glad I did. It was bursting with freshness and flavor, as if it had just swum over onto the grill. The filet was tender and the richness of the swordfish was enhanced by a homemade, winter hunter-green pesto, and offset by the citrus salad. It was quite simply one of the best fish dishes I have ever tasted.

Dean Gold, the owner, is constantly walking around the place, and I got to compliment him on this menu item. He explained that he only serves this dish in the winter, as that is when this fish has the best texture owing to its seasonal diet. His knowledge and zeal for his menu definitely added to the experience.

We also enjoyed cured meats, a delicious imported Burata mozzarella complete with curds flown in bi-weekly from Italy, as well as a rich brownie cake and poached pear desserts. B adores the grappa and I really enjoy the muscato, so the meal was rounded out nicely.

All this in an environment that is relaxed and friendly. My one complaint was our sever, who was attentive yet a tad indifferent and uncurious about the menu, which contrasted greatly with Dean's approach to his restaurant.

The bill with tax and tip (remember no corkage fees), three courses each and dessert drinks was just over $100. I can now say that we will be back.

Ray's The Expansion

On my metro ride to work this morning I was treated to an update on all things Ray's...

For any other Ray's fanatics, check out the newest happening on the link above. I am especially excited about this:

Landrum's evolution will certainly be on display at Ray's the Glass in the same building as Ray's: The Steaks. It was conceived as a wine bar and lounge; hence the name. But Landrum and sommelier Mark Slater, formerly of Citronelle, are launching a version of the kind of restaurant that Landrum loves to hate. Ray's: The Glass will offer reservations and private dining rooms where diners can order one of several "ambitious" set menus created with wine in mind.

While I love a good steak, lately it has been the wine that has drawn me back to Ray's the Steaks way more than I should (read: every other week for the past two months), so I am looking forward to other food options to go with that wine.

The Ultimate DC Cupcake: Georgetown Cupcake or Baked and Wired?

Baked and Wired Cupcake,

Photo Courtesy of the Washington Post

DC is home to a number of followers in the latest food trends; in the last few years, several gourmet cupcake bakeries have sprung up akin to the New York City leaders in the craft. They range from the terrible to the divine. In the latter category, two local shops really stand out: Georgetown Cupcake and Baked and Wired.

Yesterday afternoon, after B's and my respective Sunday morning rituals, we stopped by Georgetown Cupcake for the first time in almost a year. The reason for this hiatus was not the cupcakes, but the inevitable frustration of the old locale's cramped space and inefficient management of their ridiculously long lines. Georgetown Cupcake recently moved to a new location on M Street which is much bigger and better designed, if only slightly more efficient. The issue with the new space is that the street entrance forces customers to cut through the line to get in line, but, unlike in the old storefront, customers order and pay the cashier first, and then you wait for their cupcakes.

These treats are $2.75 each and the flavors rotate daily with some staples making a constant appearance: vanilla, chocolate, red velvet etc. The cupcakes are on the smaller side, but make up for their size with rich and genuine flavor. They are also cute. Actually the entire concept is cute from the pink boxes to the sugar adornments. Yesterday B had the vanilla squared while I opted for the chocolate mint. The frosting on both was a rich, whipped buttercream, and the cake was moist and flavorful.

The cupcakes are delicious, this chain is getting national attention, and we will be back and love purchasing these treats as gifts due to both the taste and packaging; but I think the true standout cupcake star is deeper into the bowels of Georgetown: Baked and Wired.

Baked and Wired is a much less-hyped--even though it has gained some pretty cool press--half coffee shop, half bakery. This place is a bit hard to locate, behind the C&O Canal but before you hit the Potomac on Thomas Jefferson Street. You will not find a line stretching out the door, or an annoying gaggle of college-aged tourists, but the shop is marked by a telltale hot pink painted bicycle out front. This is a much crunchier operation, leaning more toward the attitude for which places like these is often known. Their website is not flashy and in fact, and true to form, cuts off some key details, like the description of each cupcake.

The cupcakes are heavenly; they are more like individual cakes than a cupcake and are about twice the size of their Georgetown brethren. This is the moistest cupcake I have ever tasted, topped with a very generous portion of rich frosting that is denser than the butter cream used by Georgetown. These cupcakes run $3.50 apiece and are definitely sharable. My favorite is Teresa's Birthday Cake, but I have never tried one that I would not indulge in again.

If I had to choose (glad I don't) my vote would go to Baked and Wired over Georgetown Cupcake, but I have no doubt that we will continue to patronize both in the future.