Straight up honest advice on dining and wine in Washington DC and in charm city Baltimore(and a few other places in between.) From cheap eats to gourmet classy hot spots. There is no mercy for this "wanna be" professional restaurant reviewer.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Glarus Chocolatier
644 S Exeter St
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 727-6601
Wonderful locations eludes an appeal to luxurious chocolate at elevated prices (they must pay their rest right?) Don't get me wrong, the chocolates are quite exquisite, specially the chocolate covered expresso beans. The attendant although extremely friendly in nature is quite ineducated in the art of chocolate making.
Overall: 2 stars
BangBang Mongolian Grill
2400 Boston Street
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 327-2264
What are you people thinking, tried this once, would I go back? umm no!!! Yeah yeah I read the other reviews claiming the place to be pricey, some say that you get 3 meals out of the large bowl. Some say you get free yogourt. Here is my quarrell. Why do you want to go to a PRETTY MUCH OMELETTE BAR with noodles? ...you are pretty much paying to put together your own meal and then someone to stir fry it for 5 minutes. Here is why I am so torn..OK....I like the fact I get to pick my ingredients. I am a foodie afterall, but the other problem is...that if you are not a foodie, you have the issue of some of these poor "victims" here and there wirtting reviews...you will 1. utilize too much hot spice and burn the crapp out of your tongue, or 2. mix two totally contrasting flavors and have crappy tasting food. So umm is a give and take...here...on the other note they have a gluten free menu that will help you locate ingredients that wont make you sick. I guess picking your ingredients is part of the appeal, but then so is going to a market and preparing things at home...unless you tend to burn stuff.
As far as wine choices, the are very minimal and the set up is self serve. This is no fancy swancy date choice
My rating: two stars
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Abbey Burger Bistro
1041 Marshall St
Baltimore, MD 21230
Neighborhood: Federal Hill
(443) 453-9698
This is entirely a burger joint for non foodies.
I was happy you can build your own burger.
I was unhappy at the result.
Not because my combinations sucked, but because the portion were for midgets (sorry midgets that eat a lot).
Mind you this girl doesnt eat much, but come on. One slice of pineapple?
Stingy a tad?
I had the Kangaroo burger..dont waste your money, it was dry as hiatis...if you want to knock it off your list of eaten meats...as I did then go right ahead...otherwise is like eating dirt from Australia. Kangaroos are marsupials, herbivores, they are NOT giant rats. BTW!
Service was courteous and attentive, it helps that they have a good looking crew. LOL afterall this place is practically a frat house.
And when have you know fraternities to care of what they eat? They care of what they drink...and the beer list....QUITE LONG!
Baltimore, MD 21230
Neighborhood: Federal Hill
(443) 453-9698
This is entirely a burger joint for non foodies.
I was happy you can build your own burger.
I was unhappy at the result.
Not because my combinations sucked, but because the portion were for midgets (sorry midgets that eat a lot).
Mind you this girl doesnt eat much, but come on. One slice of pineapple?
Stingy a tad?
I had the Kangaroo burger..dont waste your money, it was dry as hiatis...if you want to knock it off your list of eaten meats...as I did then go right ahead...otherwise is like eating dirt from Australia. Kangaroos are marsupials, herbivores, they are NOT giant rats. BTW!
Service was courteous and attentive, it helps that they have a good looking crew. LOL afterall this place is practically a frat house.
And when have you know fraternities to care of what they eat? They care of what they drink...and the beer list....QUITE LONG!
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Taco fiesta
618 S Exeter St
Baltimore, MD 21264
This is the worst taco place I have been in my life!
The meat was extremely insipid!!
My burrito was piled high of beans.
I must say though that the service was courtesous and they took care of such overload.
Maybe due to their location but their food is over priced.
On the good side, they do carry beer, unlike Chipotle (far higher quality of burro) or Taco Bell.
Baltimore, MD 21264
This is the worst taco place I have been in my life!
The meat was extremely insipid!!
My burrito was piled high of beans.
I must say though that the service was courtesous and they took care of such overload.
Maybe due to their location but their food is over priced.
On the good side, they do carry beer, unlike Chipotle (far higher quality of burro) or Taco Bell.
Wednesday, March 07, 2012
Chopaan Kabob
Category: Mediterranean
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
Quick and fast Mediterranean cuisine. Own by a local guy that puts his heart and soul into his food. Try the shish Kabobs. They will melt in your mouth. I know this place used to get a lot of bad rep a couple of years ago, due to poor management from the previous owner and poor cooking. Well things have changed for the brighter end.
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
Quick and fast Mediterranean cuisine. Own by a local guy that puts his heart and soul into his food. Try the shish Kabobs. They will melt in your mouth. I know this place used to get a lot of bad rep a couple of years ago, due to poor management from the previous owner and poor cooking. Well things have changed for the brighter end.
Field House
Category: Sports Bars
Neighborhood: Canton/Highlandtown
2400 Boston St
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 800-4004
You might pass this place several times before you realize his is not a gym, this is not the field house of a nearby campus. I know I never paid attention to the awkwardly square building that has absolutely nothing to offer as far as aesthetics from the outside. Once you are at the door, you do realize this is an eating establishment and you do realize that there is a fairly large patio up front.
The inside is just a huge warehouse like building, that strike a certain time turns into a frat house atmosphere. Loud music and a 20 something thumping crowd. The menu is an absolute mess of American college campus classics, with a few Baltimore Classics (crab cakes). The food is nothing to write home, possibly because a couple frat kids are actually doing the cooking out back. The wine list is miserable but the booze and beer choices can make any college kid (hopefully over 21) smile. The service was friendly and fast, a little slacking on paying attention of what we really wanted...example "keep the fries" and she brought "fries". But overall the service was attentive and quick.
If I was 21 and in college; this would be my hang out place of choice. But as a foodie I would not want to be caught dead here.
Overall rating 2 stars
Neighborhood: Canton/Highlandtown
2400 Boston St
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 800-4004
You might pass this place several times before you realize his is not a gym, this is not the field house of a nearby campus. I know I never paid attention to the awkwardly square building that has absolutely nothing to offer as far as aesthetics from the outside. Once you are at the door, you do realize this is an eating establishment and you do realize that there is a fairly large patio up front.
The inside is just a huge warehouse like building, that strike a certain time turns into a frat house atmosphere. Loud music and a 20 something thumping crowd. The menu is an absolute mess of American college campus classics, with a few Baltimore Classics (crab cakes). The food is nothing to write home, possibly because a couple frat kids are actually doing the cooking out back. The wine list is miserable but the booze and beer choices can make any college kid (hopefully over 21) smile. The service was friendly and fast, a little slacking on paying attention of what we really wanted...example "keep the fries" and she brought "fries". But overall the service was attentive and quick.
If I was 21 and in college; this would be my hang out place of choice. But as a foodie I would not want to be caught dead here.
Overall rating 2 stars
Minato
1013 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 332-0332
My favorite Sushi place in Mt. Vernon., consistent food quality and great friendly service. The waiters are always willing to go the extra step to please the customer ( I was helped with Iphone charge yesterday). The places is ample and hip with a mix of old (from the original structure of the building ) and the new from the restoration. This place offers an array of weekly specials, from $1 sushi, to $3 martinis, etc etc. It is the only place in the city with decent Pho open in the evening hours. Yes you heard me right. Pho in the city!! The pho is ok, and it will fulfill the craving. As far as the sushi goes it is very fresh and the rice cooked perfectly. Their hot entrees are also to rave for. Their bar choices also quite expansive and it includes good choices of wines and sakes and let's not forget a well put together happy hour.
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 332-0332
My favorite Sushi place in Mt. Vernon., consistent food quality and great friendly service. The waiters are always willing to go the extra step to please the customer ( I was helped with Iphone charge yesterday). The places is ample and hip with a mix of old (from the original structure of the building ) and the new from the restoration. This place offers an array of weekly specials, from $1 sushi, to $3 martinis, etc etc. It is the only place in the city with decent Pho open in the evening hours. Yes you heard me right. Pho in the city!! The pho is ok, and it will fulfill the craving. As far as the sushi goes it is very fresh and the rice cooked perfectly. Their hot entrees are also to rave for. Their bar choices also quite expansive and it includes good choices of wines and sakes and let's not forget a well put together happy hour.
Saturday, February 04, 2012
Marie Louise Bistro
904 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 385-9946
Categories: American (Traditional), French, Mediterranean
Adorable French bistro inspired setting in the heart of Mt Vernon. I have tried their Coq a Vin and I was highly dissapointed. I was served stale and moldy bread that should have been discarded two days before hand. I will not even attempt to entartain you with how horrible this thick gravied chicken was, as I would not wish to mentally disturb my readers. The service is a little on the snooty side and it's a hit and miss on a good day. Now as far as desert goes, this little place is a gem. They have a vast selection of house made French pastries, including tarts and tortes of all kinds and delicious ice creams. So after dinner if you are seeking something sweet take a stroll down to Marie Louise and fill your heart with something sweet.
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 385-9946
Categories: American (Traditional), French, Mediterranean
Adorable French bistro inspired setting in the heart of Mt Vernon. I have tried their Coq a Vin and I was highly dissapointed. I was served stale and moldy bread that should have been discarded two days before hand. I will not even attempt to entartain you with how horrible this thick gravied chicken was, as I would not wish to mentally disturb my readers. The service is a little on the snooty side and it's a hit and miss on a good day. Now as far as desert goes, this little place is a gem. They have a vast selection of house made French pastries, including tarts and tortes of all kinds and delicious ice creams. So after dinner if you are seeking something sweet take a stroll down to Marie Louise and fill your heart with something sweet.
Sunday, January 01, 2012
Midnite Confection's Cupcakery
1051 S Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 727-1010
Categories: Bakeries, Desserts
Neighborhood: Federal Hill
As one of my other reviews had mentioned I am definitively not a cupcake afficionado, in fact I am the least likely to order desert at a meal. I love baking and grew up with a mom that was a superb baker and pastry maker. I definitively know great cake. The cupcake frenzy has taken over since Magnolia's in NYC. They stuff tends to be overly sweet and leaves you drinking tons of water for days. Having a cupcake should not be a diabetic hazard. I have tried a few places here in Baltimore with good cake, good topping, and not so good of both...this little bakery now...has both pat down to the T! Their toppings are to die for...I am serious, their pistacchios red velvet at formidable. These cupcakes go fast, make a cove on these babies earlier during the day, or you will be left high and dry. To me the topping can make such a difference, here you can have your cupcake custom topped with whatever frosting they have ready....isn't that fairie-liy delicious?
Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 727-1010
Categories: Bakeries, Desserts
Neighborhood: Federal Hill
As one of my other reviews had mentioned I am definitively not a cupcake afficionado, in fact I am the least likely to order desert at a meal. I love baking and grew up with a mom that was a superb baker and pastry maker. I definitively know great cake. The cupcake frenzy has taken over since Magnolia's in NYC. They stuff tends to be overly sweet and leaves you drinking tons of water for days. Having a cupcake should not be a diabetic hazard. I have tried a few places here in Baltimore with good cake, good topping, and not so good of both...this little bakery now...has both pat down to the T! Their toppings are to die for...I am serious, their pistacchios red velvet at formidable. These cupcakes go fast, make a cove on these babies earlier during the day, or you will be left high and dry. To me the topping can make such a difference, here you can have your cupcake custom topped with whatever frosting they have ready....isn't that fairie-liy delicious?
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Italia's Corner Cafe
7089 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
(410) 684-3817
Category: Italian
You tell me, where can you get a HUMONGOUS pie for $15 to feed the entire family? This pie is not only inexpensive, but also authetically Italian It's practically a gift from heaven!! I have tried their thin pizza here to go and in house and the quality is immaculately the same. The pick up is always on time and the service is always courteous. If you want great Italian style think pizza this is the place to go!
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
(410) 684-3817
Category: Italian
You tell me, where can you get a HUMONGOUS pie for $15 to feed the entire family? This pie is not only inexpensive, but also authetically Italian It's practically a gift from heaven!! I have tried their thin pizza here to go and in house and the quality is immaculately the same. The pick up is always on time and the service is always courteous. If you want great Italian style think pizza this is the place to go!
Saturday, October 01, 2011
Jack's Bistro
23 Elliott St
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 878-6542
Category: American (New)
Neighborhood: Canton/Highlandtown
Jacks atmosphere is modern and relaxed and laid back. Pub meets American Bristro urban atmostphere.
The burgers are what Jacks is well known for; specially the Blt -Beware this Its not an ordinary BLT, but a little piece of heaven. I could also call it a heart attack on a plate, but I will assume my readers are amazingly healthy and can take this blow to the heart as a treat.
So, here is the amazing concept...what bacon genius might have thought of this powerful tastebud concoction. Immagine an all bacon, no beef pattie served in between a nice brioche bun with lettuce and tomatoe...yes call it a BLT ...call it a burger.... I call it palate insanity!!! The steak burger is also extremely flavourful and moist. You know most steak tends to dry up a little when you make it in a burger...well not this one. I truly enjoyed seating next to the kitchen with my date as we had the opportunity to look forward to try all their other entrees. Their beer and wine choices are extensive and the service quite knowledgiable of the food and drinks. It's exciting how American fair can be made more exciting with Asian Flavors, something the Jack's culinary crew does a superb job at incorporating in their menu. The desert list is sinful and tempts even the most non desert lovers (AKA me). I shared the Smore desert and I think I dream of it at night.
BTW quit immagining the BLT, just go and get yourself one.
Oh and try the mac and cheese with the chocolate dusting...YUM!
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 878-6542
Category: American (New)
Neighborhood: Canton/Highlandtown
Jacks atmosphere is modern and relaxed and laid back. Pub meets American Bristro urban atmostphere.
The burgers are what Jacks is well known for; specially the Blt -Beware this Its not an ordinary BLT, but a little piece of heaven. I could also call it a heart attack on a plate, but I will assume my readers are amazingly healthy and can take this blow to the heart as a treat.
So, here is the amazing concept...what bacon genius might have thought of this powerful tastebud concoction. Immagine an all bacon, no beef pattie served in between a nice brioche bun with lettuce and tomatoe...yes call it a BLT ...call it a burger.... I call it palate insanity!!! The steak burger is also extremely flavourful and moist. You know most steak tends to dry up a little when you make it in a burger...well not this one. I truly enjoyed seating next to the kitchen with my date as we had the opportunity to look forward to try all their other entrees. Their beer and wine choices are extensive and the service quite knowledgiable of the food and drinks. It's exciting how American fair can be made more exciting with Asian Flavors, something the Jack's culinary crew does a superb job at incorporating in their menu. The desert list is sinful and tempts even the most non desert lovers (AKA me). I shared the Smore desert and I think I dream of it at night.
BTW quit immagining the BLT, just go and get yourself one.
Oh and try the mac and cheese with the chocolate dusting...YUM!
Thursday, September 01, 2011
Turp's Sports Bar & Restaurant
1317 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 347-0349
Categories: American (Traditional), Sports Bars
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
Great neighborhood hangout that offers tons of weekly specials to blow your mind and inexpensive enough to keep your money in your pocket. There is a pizza night and a burger night and a little bit of everything in between to please everyone's taste. The food , good old confort food, pub fare. No 5 star recipes here, but just good old American favorites to be shared with neighbors and friends. The best part of Turps is the reasonable prices on the fare and the beer specials. Cannot beat that! Unlike the other reviews I have read here, where the service has been predomenantly unfriendly, I have come across some pretty cool waitresses, who are always attentive and chatty. Come in early as the crowds do build up.
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 347-0349
Categories: American (Traditional), Sports Bars
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
Great neighborhood hangout that offers tons of weekly specials to blow your mind and inexpensive enough to keep your money in your pocket. There is a pizza night and a burger night and a little bit of everything in between to please everyone's taste. The food , good old confort food, pub fare. No 5 star recipes here, but just good old American favorites to be shared with neighbors and friends. The best part of Turps is the reasonable prices on the fare and the beer specials. Cannot beat that! Unlike the other reviews I have read here, where the service has been predomenantly unfriendly, I have come across some pretty cool waitresses, who are always attentive and chatty. Come in early as the crowds do build up.
Thursday, July 07, 2011
Lebanese Taverna
719 S President St
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 244-5533
Category: Mediterranean
Neighborhood: Harbor East
Possibly the most horribly overrated and most overpriced placed in Harbor East. I have had good Middle Eastern food in Washington Dc (my closest friends from college were Turkish, Lebanese, Irani and Iraqui) and unfortunately this is a tragic attempt to recreate Lebanese fare Washingtonian style (and at the same cost in Baltimore) here in Harbor East. Just because this two acres of Baltimore are ridiculous overbuilt, it doesn't mean you can charge NYC prices for flavorless dishes and a lack of view (obstruckted by the huge Legg Mason building if you are sitting outside).
At this prices, at this location, and specially flanked by neighbors like Chinghiale, Oceanaire and the Chalerston, dear Lebanese Taverna you need to step up your game! The sex appeal of the interior, and the sad attempt to transform the venue into a hot club with loud Euro trash music around midnight can only take you so far but it soon (15 minutes) gets old too quickly. The service, I must admit aims to please. My dirty martini was made to 007 standards. Unfortunately, all the booze in the world cannot save an overpriced piece of undercooked lamb that is just crying to be saved by some lovely Greek Lady that could cook it to perfection down the street...let's say at Mezze's. Now, if you like to feel "NYC" flashy and don't mind getting ripped off for a subtandard meal, this is your spot.
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 244-5533
Category: Mediterranean
Neighborhood: Harbor East
Possibly the most horribly overrated and most overpriced placed in Harbor East. I have had good Middle Eastern food in Washington Dc (my closest friends from college were Turkish, Lebanese, Irani and Iraqui) and unfortunately this is a tragic attempt to recreate Lebanese fare Washingtonian style (and at the same cost in Baltimore) here in Harbor East. Just because this two acres of Baltimore are ridiculous overbuilt, it doesn't mean you can charge NYC prices for flavorless dishes and a lack of view (obstruckted by the huge Legg Mason building if you are sitting outside).
At this prices, at this location, and specially flanked by neighbors like Chinghiale, Oceanaire and the Chalerston, dear Lebanese Taverna you need to step up your game! The sex appeal of the interior, and the sad attempt to transform the venue into a hot club with loud Euro trash music around midnight can only take you so far but it soon (15 minutes) gets old too quickly. The service, I must admit aims to please. My dirty martini was made to 007 standards. Unfortunately, all the booze in the world cannot save an overpriced piece of undercooked lamb that is just crying to be saved by some lovely Greek Lady that could cook it to perfection down the street...let's say at Mezze's. Now, if you like to feel "NYC" flashy and don't mind getting ripped off for a subtandard meal, this is your spot.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Sascha's 527 Cafe
527 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 539-8880
Category: American (New)
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
I have been living literally across the street from this place and everyone has been telling me that I need to try this place. I wasn't impressed with their cuisine.
Their atmosphere is absolutely exquisitive, refreshingly spunky and yet sophisticatly romantic. Dimly lit and adorned with splash of colorful yet intriguing art.
The service was friendly yet a little absent minded when it comes to pointing out there is a hair in the tacos. Now their food, nothing to write home about, I had a couple of things from their appertizer menu, the fish tacos and their calamari and everything was well executed specially the calamari's red sauce. As I said nothing to write home about. My date had their Thursday special, wich is their Fried Chicken special. It came with cole slaw, mash potatoes and three large pieces of chicken. She said it was delicious, and she knows her fried chicken so I will take her word of expert on this one, as I tried only a little bitty piece.
Now the cocktails were very tasty, possibly slightly too overpriced for Baltimore Standards, but rest assured that the bartender does know what he/she is doing.
Overall not a bad experience, the tacos should have been written off due to the hair, but the waitress seemed to claim amnesia when we pointed it out. We should try another nightly special to really assess this place. Wenesdays are filet mignon special night. Maybe then...
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 539-8880
Category: American (New)
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
I have been living literally across the street from this place and everyone has been telling me that I need to try this place. I wasn't impressed with their cuisine.
Their atmosphere is absolutely exquisitive, refreshingly spunky and yet sophisticatly romantic. Dimly lit and adorned with splash of colorful yet intriguing art.
The service was friendly yet a little absent minded when it comes to pointing out there is a hair in the tacos. Now their food, nothing to write home about, I had a couple of things from their appertizer menu, the fish tacos and their calamari and everything was well executed specially the calamari's red sauce. As I said nothing to write home about. My date had their Thursday special, wich is their Fried Chicken special. It came with cole slaw, mash potatoes and three large pieces of chicken. She said it was delicious, and she knows her fried chicken so I will take her word of expert on this one, as I tried only a little bitty piece.
Now the cocktails were very tasty, possibly slightly too overpriced for Baltimore Standards, but rest assured that the bartender does know what he/she is doing.
Overall not a bad experience, the tacos should have been written off due to the hair, but the waitress seemed to claim amnesia when we pointed it out. We should try another nightly special to really assess this place. Wenesdays are filet mignon special night. Maybe then...
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Never On Sunday
829 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 727-7191
Category: Greek
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
Never on Sunday, as it explesitly says is never open on Sundays, and they are not kidding. Offers an array of fast food. Honestly the menu is vast but this place is entirely inept of great food, everything is barely comestible. In fact I'm of firm belief that this place has been kept alive by the neighboring bar scene. I guess drunk people want fast and oily food and they don't care much about taste.
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 727-7191
Category: Greek
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
Never on Sunday, as it explesitly says is never open on Sundays, and they are not kidding. Offers an array of fast food. Honestly the menu is vast but this place is entirely inept of great food, everything is barely comestible. In fact I'm of firm belief that this place has been kept alive by the neighboring bar scene. I guess drunk people want fast and oily food and they don't care much about taste.
Monday, November 08, 2010
Grandville Moore's
1238 H St NE
(between N 12th St & N 13th St)
Washington, DC 20002
Set in an old veterinarean office that has been stripped to the bone and made into an establishment with tons of character. This ultra casual place is totally unpretancious. From the front is kind of hard to extablis h its location as there is no large sign out front other than a non lit sign on the window.
Perfect for a friends night out, GM offers a wide selection of beers. Beers not easily found at the local liquor store. Make sure that with those beers (notice how I plurilized) you order the frites with an array of dipping sauces....the truffled one is to die for.
The wait times can be a little offputting, but it's nothing to worry about, if you come on a weeknight at around 6 or 7 you should be fine. Plus there are always the bars (one upstairs and one downstairs). Additionally, if there is a wait, the guy at the door will take your telephone number and call you when they are ready. You do not have to stay within the premises, you can in fact wonder to a nearby watering hole and enjoy some brew there if you prefer.
The main attraction of the place are the mussels, please keep in mind mussels are better during the months that end with er, such as September - December. The mussels steamed in many sauces. My favorite is the moules bleu, or bleu mussels in a blue cheese sauce. Phenomenal when soaked up by bread.
All the other food, wich I have honeslty never had, I have been informed is delicious. If you are a true foodie this is a must try place for you.
(between N 12th St & N 13th St)
Washington, DC 20002
Set in an old veterinarean office that has been stripped to the bone and made into an establishment with tons of character. This ultra casual place is totally unpretancious. From the front is kind of hard to extablis h its location as there is no large sign out front other than a non lit sign on the window.
Perfect for a friends night out, GM offers a wide selection of beers. Beers not easily found at the local liquor store. Make sure that with those beers (notice how I plurilized) you order the frites with an array of dipping sauces....the truffled one is to die for.
The wait times can be a little offputting, but it's nothing to worry about, if you come on a weeknight at around 6 or 7 you should be fine. Plus there are always the bars (one upstairs and one downstairs). Additionally, if there is a wait, the guy at the door will take your telephone number and call you when they are ready. You do not have to stay within the premises, you can in fact wonder to a nearby watering hole and enjoy some brew there if you prefer.
The main attraction of the place are the mussels, please keep in mind mussels are better during the months that end with er, such as September - December. The mussels steamed in many sauces. My favorite is the moules bleu, or bleu mussels in a blue cheese sauce. Phenomenal when soaked up by bread.
All the other food, wich I have honeslty never had, I have been informed is delicious. If you are a true foodie this is a must try place for you.
Sunday, November 07, 2010
Capital City Diner
1050 Bladensburg Rd NE
(between N K St & N Oates St)
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 396-3467
www.capitalcitydiner.com
Have you ever seen an actual old skool diner in the city? Well now you can!! You cannot help it, but love the nostalgic feeling of the "Classic American Diner" that is often characterized by glimmering stainless steel exterior --a feature unique to diner architecture. It's nice to see the prototypical "rail car" style diner circa 1930s adorn Bladensburg road in D.C. Classic!
The staff is extremely friendly and the service is quick and immaculate. I have been to several diners up in the New York, Jersey area and I always find that there is a certain sence of uncleanliness that can come across, well this place doesn't. This place is kept clean. The kitchen area is extremely busy as the pace of customers in an out this joint on a busy day is insane. This place can get packed, and this is an understatement. The cliente is eclectic, youg families, seniors and urbanites of the such.
Try hitting Sunday brunch a little bit earlier than expected or you will end up waiting for a little while. I am not saying hours as the service is very fast. All I am saying is, if you are hungry go early. The food is American diner style, burgers, fries, breakfast. A must have are the waffle fries. DELICIOUS!
There are many weekly specials featured on the menu, and needless to say the prices are to die for.
(between N K St & N Oates St)
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 396-3467
www.capitalcitydiner.com
Have you ever seen an actual old skool diner in the city? Well now you can!! You cannot help it, but love the nostalgic feeling of the "Classic American Diner" that is often characterized by glimmering stainless steel exterior --a feature unique to diner architecture. It's nice to see the prototypical "rail car" style diner circa 1930s adorn Bladensburg road in D.C. Classic!
The staff is extremely friendly and the service is quick and immaculate. I have been to several diners up in the New York, Jersey area and I always find that there is a certain sence of uncleanliness that can come across, well this place doesn't. This place is kept clean. The kitchen area is extremely busy as the pace of customers in an out this joint on a busy day is insane. This place can get packed, and this is an understatement. The cliente is eclectic, youg families, seniors and urbanites of the such.
Try hitting Sunday brunch a little bit earlier than expected or you will end up waiting for a little while. I am not saying hours as the service is very fast. All I am saying is, if you are hungry go early. The food is American diner style, burgers, fries, breakfast. A must have are the waffle fries. DELICIOUS!
There are many weekly specials featured on the menu, and needless to say the prices are to die for.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Ping Pong
Gallery Pl – Chinatown
900 7th St NW (b/t N I St & N Massachusetts Ave) Washington, DC 20001
www.pingpongdimsum.us/
This is no ordinary dim sum house. If you want to experience dim sum for dinner this is the place to go. The place is huge, elegant and bold, with notes of dark wood and smashingling contemporary.It is definitively an attractive establishment that does an excellent job of luring “innocent” urbinites into its premises. Needless to say the place is sexy, but loud as loud can get. The acoustics in this place are desperately aggravating. You can barely hear the person next to you or across from you. I felt like I needed a microphone in this place in order to converse with anyone. This is definitively not the place for a first date or a romantic date at all, as you won’t get any conversation done.
Another downfall is the lack of valet parking. It is one of the most obvious things I expect when you are in a location that is so overtrafficked and supposedly to an above than avarage stablishment. So, I highly recommend taking a cab in.
Reservations are merely a suggestion as we were seated approximately 1 hour or more after our reservation. So, if you are a timely person, expect to chill at the bar for a good while. (who knows if this is a sale scheme.)
I must say that even thoug the food is delicious, it cannot remotely compare to the authentic flavors of a dim sum house where the dim sum is brought to you in carts. Technically the idea behind Ping Pong is turning dim sum into tapas and overcharge for it. Additionally the portions are so small that I can guarantee you that by the end of the night you will be starving again.
Regarding the impressevely stocked bar. I must insist that we are not in NYC and that paying comparable NYC prices in Washington Dc is absurd, unless you are in one of the best restaurants in town, or you just don’t care to be robben blindly.
Now if you are into overspending, flashiness and loud places where you just want to look good and not really care about the conversation….this is the place for you.
900 7th St NW (b/t N I St & N Massachusetts Ave) Washington, DC 20001
www.pingpongdimsum.us/
This is no ordinary dim sum house. If you want to experience dim sum for dinner this is the place to go. The place is huge, elegant and bold, with notes of dark wood and smashingling contemporary.It is definitively an attractive establishment that does an excellent job of luring “innocent” urbinites into its premises. Needless to say the place is sexy, but loud as loud can get. The acoustics in this place are desperately aggravating. You can barely hear the person next to you or across from you. I felt like I needed a microphone in this place in order to converse with anyone. This is definitively not the place for a first date or a romantic date at all, as you won’t get any conversation done.
Another downfall is the lack of valet parking. It is one of the most obvious things I expect when you are in a location that is so overtrafficked and supposedly to an above than avarage stablishment. So, I highly recommend taking a cab in.
Reservations are merely a suggestion as we were seated approximately 1 hour or more after our reservation. So, if you are a timely person, expect to chill at the bar for a good while. (who knows if this is a sale scheme.)
I must say that even thoug the food is delicious, it cannot remotely compare to the authentic flavors of a dim sum house where the dim sum is brought to you in carts. Technically the idea behind Ping Pong is turning dim sum into tapas and overcharge for it. Additionally the portions are so small that I can guarantee you that by the end of the night you will be starving again.
Regarding the impressevely stocked bar. I must insist that we are not in NYC and that paying comparable NYC prices in Washington Dc is absurd, unless you are in one of the best restaurants in town, or you just don’t care to be robben blindly.
Now if you are into overspending, flashiness and loud places where you just want to look good and not really care about the conversation….this is the place for you.
Pho 75
1721 Wilson Blvd
Arlington, VA 22209
(703) 525-7355
One of the first Pho places in the area, has been in business for over 20 something years…and this is why…
The only thing sold here is Pho….the specialty is PHO, the menu is comprised of only PHO!
This is a no bullshit Pho place, PHO PHO PHO and nothing else, well drinks…(you have to drink right?)
The Pho is delivious and the service is prompt . Always packed this place creates lines..
Only negative its they do not have hot chili sauce.
Otherwise close to perfection.
Arlington, VA 22209
(703) 525-7355
One of the first Pho places in the area, has been in business for over 20 something years…and this is why…
The only thing sold here is Pho….the specialty is PHO, the menu is comprised of only PHO!
This is a no bullshit Pho place, PHO PHO PHO and nothing else, well drinks…(you have to drink right?)
The Pho is delivious and the service is prompt . Always packed this place creates lines..
Only negative its they do not have hot chili sauce.
Otherwise close to perfection.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Biergarten Haus
1355 H St NE
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 388-4053
Have you ever been to place where you feel you are in a different country? Well!!!! Welcome to Germany BABY!! The front bar is stunningly constructed with old mohogany that gives you an instantaneous feeling of being in a bar in a small town in Germany where you go get a couple pints. Now, there is more.... the outside patio is where the action is. A huge tent covers the main patio just in case of torrential rains, 'cause you know we have so many of those...*wink*...I think is more for keeping from the sun and not scorching while you are indeed enjoying that pint. Large screen TVs surround the walls and give you an opportunity to catch your favorite game at any time. The bier comes in different sizes... Up to a litre...well at least that is what I have. Their main specialties are german biers and the do offer a large variate of that.....and superb authentic German food and of course outstandingly thoughtful service!!!
Definitively a must visit!
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 388-4053
Have you ever been to place where you feel you are in a different country? Well!!!! Welcome to Germany BABY!! The front bar is stunningly constructed with old mohogany that gives you an instantaneous feeling of being in a bar in a small town in Germany where you go get a couple pints. Now, there is more.... the outside patio is where the action is. A huge tent covers the main patio just in case of torrential rains, 'cause you know we have so many of those...*wink*...I think is more for keeping from the sun and not scorching while you are indeed enjoying that pint. Large screen TVs surround the walls and give you an opportunity to catch your favorite game at any time. The bier comes in different sizes... Up to a litre...well at least that is what I have. Their main specialties are german biers and the do offer a large variate of that.....and superb authentic German food and of course outstandingly thoughtful service!!!
Definitively a must visit!
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