In recent years, the focus on modern American cuisine has taken a backseat to more globally focused menus in Washington, DC. This is good news for all of us because it means that food is more flavorful, more interesting, and more diverse. Birch and Barley, now in its 10th year, is one such restaurant that has embarked on this change.
New Executive Chef, Jarrad Silver, at Birch and Barley loves to draw on the flavors of the Mediterranean. This has inspired him to create a menu using explosive ingredients such as ras el hanout, muhammara, tahini, black garlic, and green humus. Much like the other venues in the area such as Hazel and Olivia that have taken this turn, the shift is a wild success.
Historically, there was not much in the way of vegetables at Birch and Barley. Now, there are so many vegetable-forward dishes its hard to know where to begin! I recommend ordering half a dozen small plate items and share with your friends. Top recommendations include the grilled broccolini that comes with salty Greek feta and fragrant hazelnuts and sweet sugar snaps peas laden with mint and toasted garlic.
The charred sweet potato with a curry butter is earthy and exotic and a must-try, while the flatbread, with ramp pesto, peas, tomatoes, and goat cheese, has all the flavors of spring. My favorite may have been the shaved Brussels sprouts salad, which comes drizzled in a super creamy and savory green goddess dressing and adorned with kumquat for a bright citrus note.
For an entrée, I recommend ordering the wild mushroom fricassee because of its heartiness or a whole roasted cauliflower. Another suggestion is the cacio e pepe bucatini as it’s luscious, cheesy, and uber satisfying.
Beer is the name of the game at Birch and Barley but they also have a great wine list. Prices are reasonable with small plates ranging from $8-15 and entrees around $20. It’s a great place to meet up with friends; the exposed brick and comfy booths provide a great ambiance for hours of dining, and it gets louder as the evening goes on, so you can talk and laugh at whatever you volume you want! Don’t skip dessert – the huckleberry jam filled donuts, served with tahini caramel and za’atar, are sinful but essential. Two thumbs up for the change – I can’t wait to go back.
Birch and Barley, 1337 14th St NW, Washington, DC, Website
