The Nation's Capital Gets New Restaurants Added to Michelin Guide
The Nation's Capital Gets New Restaurants Added to Michelin Guide
2023's Top Dining Destinations in D.C.
Washington, D.C., known for its iconic monuments and political prowess, is rapidly becoming a culinary powerhouse in its own right. The city's ever-evolving dining scene has recently seen some exciting newcomers, and we're thrilled to introduce you to the latest additions to the 2023 MICHELIN Guide Washington, D.C. Let's embark on a gastronomic journey through these remarkable restaurants, set against the backdrop of late October's crisp weather.
Beloved BBQ - Japanese
Nestled in Capitol Crossing, Beloved BBQ is a Japanese steakhouse that redefines the art of barbecue. With dark walls, a neon hallway, and spacious tables featuring central circular grills, this restaurant offers an immersive dining experience. Chefs Makoto Okuwa and Takeshi Omae bring the authentic flavors of Japanese barbecue to the forefront. Start your meal with icy cold oysters enhanced with chili koji, setting the stage for dishes like A5 Wagyu fried rice served in a steaming hot pot. Meat enthusiasts will delight in prime short rib, Wagyu New York strip, and aged beef tongue. Each dish showcases the artistry and precision of Japanese cuisine.
Dear Sushi at Love, Makoto - Sushi
At Love, Makoto, Chef Makoto Okuwa invites you to embark on a culinary adventure with three unique concepts under one roof. Among them, Dear Sushi stands out as a winner. Offering omakase without the steep price tag, this experience is a symphony of flavors and textures. From opening snacks to handrolls and nigiri prepared in innovative ways, each bite is a revelation. Don't miss the Tokoroten noodles in tomato water or the Ichigo (strawberry) dessert that seals the deal.
Chang Chang - Chinese
Dupont Circle is now home to Chang Chang, named after owner and renowned local chef Peter Chang. The restaurant boasts a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that complements its elevated take on classic Chinese dishes. Highlights include plump walnut prawns drizzled with honey mayo, perfect pork soup dumplings, and snow pea shoots with garlic. Make sure to savor the crispy, juicy Beijing duck, and don't forget to indulge in a dessert from Chef Pichet Ong.
Grazie Nonna - Italian-American
Grazie Nonna, helmed by Chef Gerald Addison and Casey Patten, channels the spirit of Italian-American classics with a modern twist. Dive into dishes like clams casino, creative pizzas, and macaroni with a garlic-spiked cream sauce. Chicken Vesuvio is a must-try, and the restaurant's buzzy bar always promises a vibrant atmosphere.
Kappo - Japanese
Located a few steps below street level, Kappo, under Chef Minoru Ogawa's guidance, offers a minimalist decor and a focus on Wagyu woven with seafood. The eight-course Kappo-style tasting menu is a culinary journey through Japan's flavors. The precision in flavors is matched by approachability, making this experience unforgettable. Be sure to try the Wagyu sukiyaki and savor the sashimi trio.
Little Vietnam - Vietnamese
Petworth's culinary scene welcomes Little Vietnam, where a group of friends has come together to deliver bold flavors from Vietnam and beyond. The menu features cumin lamb dumplings, duck fat rice, and lemongrass red curry, all packed with fiery punches. The restaurant's tiny, open space ensures an intimate and immersive dining experience, with no reservations required—a true culinary adventure.
Petite Cerise - French
Petite Cerise brings classic French bistro fare back into the limelight. This spacious restaurant offers a view into the open kitchen and boasts a menu that balances tradition and innovation. From foie gras beignets to cornmeal-crusted soft-shell crab, each dish is a celebration of French culinary heritage. Dessert lovers will find solace in a single profiterole with a delicious chocolate ganache sauce.
Rania - Indian
Rania, which translates to "queen" in Hindi and Sanskrit, offers a fine dining experience fit for royalty. Chef Chetan Shetty's inventive three- and four-course prix fixe menu features contemporary twists on Indian classics. Dishes like shiso leaf chaat and ghee-roasted lamb showcase a playful spirit with elegant overtones. End your meal with the delightful Shrikhand mousse.
The Saga - Spanish
Enrique Limardo's latest venture, The Saga, offers minimalist elegance and a fusion of Spanish classics with Latin American influences. The menu features reimagined tapas, arroz dishes, and meat-forward main courses. The arroz morada, made with a salt-baked beet purée, is a must-try, as is the lamb shoulder.
Yellow - Middle Eastern
Yellow, a Levantine café in Georgetown, celebrates Levantine cooking with a wood-burning oven. From pastries to pita sandwiches and fluffy pitas filled with mouthwatering ingredients, this daytime casual concept has it all. Be sure to try the batata tots and finish your meal with a brown butter and cinnamon cookie or Turkish coffee brownie.
As we embrace the changing seasons and the vibrant flavors they bring, these new additions to the Michelin Guide 2023 promise to elevate Washington, D.C.'s culinary scene to new heights. Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visitor to the capital, these restaurants offer a delightful journey through diverse cuisines and culinary creativity. Washington, D.C., continues to be a culinary destination worth exploring, even as the late October weather sets in with its crisp, invigorating coolness.
Did you see the new additions to the 2023 MICHELIN Guide New York? You can find the 15 newly listed recommendations here.
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