Where to Stay in Porto and Douro Valley

We stayed in the Portobay Teatro Hotel, an upscale, recently renovated building covered in a glass facade.  It is conveniently located in the center of Porto; we did a walking tour of the city that kicked off just outside our hotel! We got ready for the day over a luxurious breakfast with fresh juices, a spread of fresh fruits, eggs made to order, granola and yogurt bowls, and freshly made loaves of bread served with jams, butter, and cheeses. Plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants are also within walking distance, and you are within 90 minutes of Douro Valley, so you can do multiple days of wine-tasting day trips to the vineyards. 

What to Do

Walking tour of Porto: A walking tour of Porto is a great way to get an orientation of the city. Walk along the many alleys that showcase its stunning architectural treasures. From the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to the colorful Ribeira district, you’ll discover hidden gems and historical narratives that bus tours simply miss.

Visit the wineries in Douro Valley! Since we were staying in Porto proper, we took a tour of local wineries starting at 9:00 am because it takes over an hour to get to the wineries in the valley. Here’s where we went: 

• D’Origem: We kicked off our tour with a visit to this winery, where we were treated to a tour of the facility and learned about the Portuguese grapes and wine-making process. From there, we went to the deck where we sampled a series of wines, olive oils, honey, and bread,  all while admiring the breathtaking views of the Douro Valley. We were enamored with the rose and ordered a case for delivery back to the United States.

• Quinta do Bomfim: Next, we visited this vineyard, which specializes in Ports – the sweet, fortified wines that the Douro Vally and Porto are famous for. Dating back to the 1800s, this is one of the oldest port houses in the world. We enjoyed an informative tour, and then a fun tasting. 

Douro Valley Picnic + Boat Cruise: A great way to see Porto and Douro Valley is by water! The tour company arranged a picnic after the wine tasting for us, complete with stunning vantage points of the Douro Valley and plenty of wine, followed by a boat ride on the water, of course with more wine. It was unreal. Being surrounded by the water and the mountains and the rows and rows of grapevines – it doesn’t get much more beautiful than this. 

Where to Eat

After each day of activities, we enjoyed dinner in the city at one of the following spots:  

Jardineiro: As the name implies, this garden-inspired restaurant offers an idyllic green space for dining on exquisite fare. The cuisine is local and seasonal, and offers gems like mushroom skewers served with a bold garlic sauce, mushroom risotto, cannelloni with a tomato ragu, and, for dessert, crepes suzette with a super cool mint ice cream. Don’t skip the cocktails – the tropical gin and passion fruit concoction is perfection, and the colada punch will make sure you know you’re on vacation. 

Esencia: With dishes like Caesar salad croquettes, portobello carpaccio, and pasta in a sundried tomato pesto, we loved the innovative approach of this restaurant that serves vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Porto and Douro Valley: The Verdict

Porto and the Douro Valley offer an exceptional, immersive journey to those who love food and wine. The vibrant city of Porto, with its historic charm, seamlessly blends into the stunning, vineyard-laden landscapes of the Douro Valley. Here, world-class Port and local flavors combine with breathtaking views, creating a truly memorable Portuguese adventure. Whether you’re a wine lover or simply seeking a picturesque getaway, Porto and the Douro Valley promise a magical experience.

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Arlo Hotel opens, complete with Arrels Restaurant and a Rooftop Bar

D.C.’s oldest surviving apartment building, the 1888 Harrison Apartments, has been transformed into a glamorous new 445-room hotel, Arlo Washington D.C. The hotel’s highlights include a gorgeous rooftop bar with indoor and outdoor seating, as well as the flagship restaurant named Arrels. Helmed by Chef Pepe Moncayo, Arrels means “roots” in Catalan to honor the Chef’s Spanish heritage. Standout dishes on the menu include the crispiest patatas bravas, served in a charming cone alongside a puddle of garlicky aioli, grilled gem lettuce crowned with a snowy mountain of Manchego cheese, chewy mushroom fideos, and, of course, flaky, sugar-coated churros served with a dense chocolate sauce.

Dupont Circle Hotel’s Pembroke Sunday Suppers

In the fall of 2024, The Pembroke, the gorgeous, glass-enclosed restaurant located on the first floor of D.C.’s Dupont Circle hotel, launched a new Sunday Supper series. Each month, a different member of The Pembroke’s talented culinary team will curate a prix-fixe, family-style meal, using fresh ingredients from the market, that honors their own personal culture. Guests can choose to dine just with their party, or,  in the dinner’s spirit of gathering, sit at the community table with whomever else is there that evening.

We were lucky enough to attend the inaugural supper, which had a Sicilian theme. (And as you know, we at the Dining Traveler love all things Sicilian!) The family-style meal included sfincione, a garlicky parmesan-dusted Sicilian pizza, panelle, crunchy chickpea flour crackers, stuffed cabbage, grilled romano beans, roasted cauliflower with almonds, mint, lemon, and chilies, and hearty braised beans. Dessert was a marvel; not-too-sweet ricotta cake arrived topped with warm roasted plums and peaches, and the creamiest chocolate chip gelato was too good not to finish. This is a D.C. hotel experience you don’t want to miss!    

Hotel Heron’s Debuts New Cocktail Bar, Francis Hall

Old Town Alexandria’s Hotel Heron, right outside of D.C. just opened Francis Hall, a craft cocktail bar offering a boozy D.C. hotel experience. The menu features about 30 drinks, including gems like Frank’s Punch, a strong combination of corn whiskey, mezcal, clementine, and suze, and a Negroni that is served as a frozen sorbet with mezcal, vermouth, citrus, and chocolate, and made table-side with liquid nitrogen for an extra special experience.

The Fire Garden at Park Hyatt’s Blue Duck Tavern

Lots of local outdoor patios have closed for the winter, but if you love to enjoy the fresh air even when temperatures are low, visit the new fire garden at Blue Duck Tavern for a super seasonal D.C. hotel experience. The newly created outdoor oasis features firepits and cozy blankets on the terrace and a fun menu of seasonal cocktails like a gingerbread martini, made with vanilla vodka, Irish cream, and ginger, and a chai white Russian, featuring chai-spiced cream, spiced rum, and cinnamon. There is also a series of drinks that incorporate at least one ingredient or garnish that was sourced directly from the hotel’s rooftop garden, like the sweet potato old fashioned with rum blend, sweet potato syrup, angostura bitters, and pecan bitters, garnished with dehydrated orange and two charred meringue cubes. Also part of the series are the golden pear with pear ginger vodka, lime juice, elderflower liqueur, ginger syrup, and angostura bitters, garnished with dried pear, and the Park DC cider with apple, cinnamon- and clove-infused bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, cranberry and ginger syrup, served in a cider mug and garnished with a cinnamon stick. 

Kimpton Hotel Monaco’s Winter Chalet

Dirty Habit has transformed its outdoor patio into a cozy winter chalet with fire pits, blankets, and a snow cannon, offering a lovely festive D.C. hotel experience. Seasonal beverages include warm concoctions like hot toddies, hot chocolate, and mulled wine. Don’t forget to order some of their famous truffle frites!

Visitation Hotel Frederick is the first new hotel to open in Frederick, MD in 50 years

Visitation Hotel Frederick, the first new hotel to open in Frederick, Maryland in the last 50 years, is housed in a space that was formerly a convent and Catholic school, which has been renovated into a 65-room boutique hotel. Celebrity chef siblings Bryan and Michael Voltaggio are opening their first joint restaurant in their hometown inside the Visitation, called Wye Oak Tavern, and the venue is a great spot from which you can explore historic downtown Frederick.

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8 Spanish Restaurants in Washington, D.C for Every Occasion

For when you want to impress

The Bazaar

After delays, legal battles, and even a spat with a U.S. president, José Andrés was finally able to open The Bazaar in the historic Post Office Building DC in 2023. It instantly became one of the top spots for the socialites, and reservations can still be hard to get, so we knew we had to include it in our D.C. Spanish dining guide. Spread out over two floors of what’s now the Waldorf Astoria, the restaurant matches the hotel’s almost-over-the-top opulence with marble, brass, enormous ferns, and Dalí-esque art, but with a playfulness that’s also found on the plates. The food is a culinary trip down Andrés’s memory lane, with nods to his molecular-gastronomy days (try the “modern & traditional” olives for a surprise), Spanish roots (stuffed piquillo peppers with sherry reduction), and his past few decades in the U.S. (oyster po-boy). There’s even a reinvented Waldorf salad!

For that old-school authentic vibe

Taberna del Alabardero

Established in Madrid, Taberna del Alabardero opened in D.C. in 1989 and has been going strong ever since. As one of the oldest Spanish restaurants in Washington, D.C., it holds a special spot in our dining guide. Its Spanish origins are evident beyond the name (‘alabardero’ refers to the halberd-armed guards that protect the Spanish royal family), as the restaurant’s ornate interior mirrors the original, and—more importantly—in the food. Basque native Josu Zubikarai helms the kitchen, which turns out authentic Spanish dishes as well as modern takes that take advantage of the quality ingredients the Mid-Atlantic offers. Familiar tapas are available during lunch and dinner like crispy eggplant drizzled with honey and an egg and onion Spanish tortilla, but look for the dishes you may not find elsewhere in D.C., such as ajoblanco malagueño, an almond-garlic soup served cold. If you want to bring some of these flavors home, head next door to Alabardero Tienda, which stocks many of the kitchen’s ingredients; if you’re feeling particularly ambitious, get one of their paella kits).

For Seafood

Del Mar

Fabio Trabocchi’s team at Del Mar serves up sumptuous seafood and other specialties from the Spanish islands in a luxurious setting. To compete with the great views the Wharf in D.C. offers, designers and craftspeople from Spain were brought over to create the idyllic dining room. The food is no less of a feast for the eyes and palate. While the raw bar will tempt, go for the dishes that showcase more of the talents in the kitchen, such as the smoked leeks with a charcoal vinaigrette or one of the several paella preparations that are made to order. Del Mar is a popular Spanish restaurant in Washington, D.C., so be sure to make a reservation; note any special occasion, and the exceptional waitstaff will make sure the experience is extra special.

For home cooking recognized by the Michelin Guide

Casa Teresa

D.C.’s downtown restaurant scene has suffered since most office workers started logging on from home most days. As a result, there have been few exciting newcomers in the past few years, but Casa Teresa is a notable exception and one we knew we had to include in our D.C. Spanish dining guide. Teresa was chef-owner Rubén García’s abuela, and his cooking pays homage to Spanish traditional home cooking: simple dishes that let the quality of the ingredients shine, with many smaller plates meant to be passed around and several options that are served family style. Don’t let the convivial atmosphere and homey dishes fool you, though; chef Garcia takes his food very seriously, perhaps evidenced most in the pa amb tomàquet (‘pan con tomato in Catalan), which comes with written instructions on how to properly prepare the starter of Crystal bread with tomato and olive oil. Whatever happens, be sure to end your meal with the basque cheesecake. Made with goat cheese and served with a puddle of walnut praline, it is absolutely heavenly.

For a unique fusion concept

Cranes

The only sake lounge on this list (and perhaps the only Spanish kaiseki in the country), Cranes fuses modern Catalan cooking with Japanese ingredients and techniques. If you’re looking for a Spanish restaurant in Washington, D.C., with a unique edge, Cranes is it. Chef Pepe Moncayo conceived of this concept following several turns in Spain’s highest-end restaurants and a nearly decade-long stint in Singapore. Settling in Washington D.C. in 2019, he brought kaiseki to the city’s restaurant scene. Kaiseki refers to a Japanese culinary philosophy that is hyper-local and seasonal, in which the chef presents diners with a meticulously crafted tasting menu. At Cranes, this means one day you may find oysters with espelette (pepper from Basque country), on another paella croquetas. Some of the best fusion dishes include bok choy with Manchego cheese and patatas bravas with yuzu ketchup. Desserts, with ingredients like cherry chocolate sorbet and pink peppercorn meringue are also sublime.

For the most fun

Jaleo

The José Andrés’ stalwart in Penn Quarter recently celebrated its 30th birthday. However, it’s still as popular as ever with locals and tourists alike – and thus had to be included in D.C.’s Spanish dining guide! The interior has seen several refreshes over the years, while the menu has remained true to its vision of authentic Spanish food to be shared with friends and enjoyed with good drinks and conversation. The extensive tapas menu has something for everyone. We love the mushrooms served over potato puree, the garbanzo salad with sherry dressing, and the crunchy, savory cones filled with tomato marmalade and goat cheese, but if you’re in the mood for paella, Jaleo offers several varieties that are brought to the table in the traditional pans (which serve 4-6 people easily ) tableside, too.

For that neighborhood bar feel

Atxondo

If you’re looking for a neighborhood Spanish restaurant in Washington, D.C., check out Atxondo. The lively restaurant scene on D.C.’s 14th St NW keeps expanding, and Atxondo may be the northernmost establishment (for the moment). This unassuming place serves up northern Spanish food that is anything but. Most dishes on the large menu are tapas-style, so you can sample a lot without breaking the bank. There are perennials like grilled scallions with romesco sauce (criminally underrated in the U.S.). However, don’t overlook seasonal offerings such as golden beets with goat cheese and crispy quinoa or butternut squash soup. The drinks list matches (maybe exceeds) the food menu in length and includes sherry, vermuts, and Spanish beers in addition to wines and cocktails, so take your time and enjoy.

For swanky food in swanky digs

The Saga

Seven Reasons Group built its reputation in D.C.’s dining scene on Latin-American food, but at The Saga, Chef Enrique Limardo goes back to his Spanish roots, albeit with a Latin-American twist, which is why we had to add it to this dining guide. Look for these twists in the fine print of the menu—pickled pineapple, fried green plantains, and guava are there between the patatas bravas and aceitunas marinadas. A chef’s tasting menu and various dishes that are prepared tableside allow guests to upgrade their dinner experience, but if you can’t wait that long, The Saga opens for breakfast and offers different menus throughout the day.

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Sintra for the History Buffs

Sintra, a thirty-minute drive or train trip from Portugal’s capital, is a must-see with its idyllic castles and picturesque scenery of forest and sea, started as a refuge for royalty. Sintra has an old town and a new town, and the old town is a UNESCO heritage site. We highly recommend a visit; it is easy to access, utterly charming, and full of history.

What to see in Sintra

Pena Palace: Built in the Middle Ages, this gorgeous castle is colorful and dramatic, located on the top of a hill with spectacular views of lakes, mountains, and forests. Various Portuguese royals used the palace as a summer residence, and the artifacts they left behind are a treat to peruse, as are the palace interior and the surrounding gardens of the castle. The best way to get there is to park in the historic center of Sintra and hike up the Villa Sassetti Trail, but there are also shuttles and drivers to take you to the top. The trail takes you through the Loureiros Forest, which is lush and worth a visit on its own if you’re more of a nature lover. Inside tip: Note that parking is limited, and you must arrive early to avoid lines! If you’re looking for days trips from Lisbon, a visit to Pena Palace is a must.

Castelo dos Mouros: Built between the 8th and 9th centuries, this Moorish Castle’s walls are still standing today. You can walk along them and take gorgeous pictures of the view.

Quinta da Regaleira: This 20th-century mansion is known for its neo-gothic architecture, gardens, and grotto. Its romantic and mysterious atmosphere begs for exploration.

Where to Eat in Sintra

Take a break from all your sightseeing to grab a bite at a small cafe in the historical center of Sintra. You really can’t go wrong, but don’t forget to try a ‘pasteis de nata.’ Portugal’s egg custard pasty is famous for a reason!

Medival Sights at Óbidos

About an hour’s drive from Lisbon, slightly farther north than Sintra, lies the medieval walled town of Obidos. The town was originally gifted to Queen Isabel of Portugal in 1282. This is a must for those looking for scenic day trips from Lisbon. Built on a hill, it is truly a delight to wander through the winding cobblestone streets within the walled city. Admire the traditional homes, visit the picturesque church, the Igreja de Santa Maria, sample local goods at the small shops like the local cherry liquor called ‘Ginjinha,’ and marvel at the Castelo de Óbidos.

Estoril and Cascais for the Beach Bums

These two glorious beach towns exist in a part of Portugal known as the Portuguese Riviera. Located just a thirty-minute drive or train trip from Lisbon, they offer the perfect opportunity to visit Portugal’s stunning beaches. The convenience can’t be beat. Hop on a train to spend the day in Cascais or Estoril, then return to your base in Lisbon without ever having to pack or change hotels.

What to See

Start off by arriving in Cascais and walk along the town streets. Delight in the unique architecture of Cascais and its homes. Then, choose from one of the many Cascais beaches. You can rent a few beach chairs and towels at the beach. Be sure to do so with Aperol spritz in your hand and take in the view! The water is clear, the sand is perfectly soft, and the vibe is one of relaxation and indulgence. When the sun starts going down, walk along the boardwalk that connects Cascais and Estoril. You will marvel at the beachfront properties in this resort town and should test your luck at Estoril’s famous casino.

Take in the Surf at Nazare

Two hours north of Lisbon is a former fishing town called Nazare. Small and sweet, this town has gorgeous beaches and is one of Europe’s most famous surfing spots. The North Beach is world-renowned for its stunning waves, which are supposed to be the largest on the planet that can actually be surfed. In fact, one can spend a whole day here just watching the surfers.

FOR FOODIES :
After your exciting day trips, return to Lisbon to dine at one of these spectacular destinations:

Arkhe: The small, charming dining room at Arkhe is as delightful as the food and service. The incredibly creative and seasonal menu offers dishes like a kimchi cannelloni served with a mushroom terrine and drizzled with a duo of carrot sauces: one with cream and turmeric and the other with orange. Beautifully presented, each dish has sublime textures and flavors.

Encanto: For the most divine vegetarian dining experience, visit Encanto. The restaurant is cozy and warm, and the plant-based cuisine is just irresistible. We relished the mushroom rice with a mushroom “scallop,” inhaled the hummus with dried flowers, marveled at the vegetable stew, and nearly cried over the summer tomatoes. This was our best dining experience in Portugal.

Afterwards, head to Lisbon’s famous pink street for a post-dinner drink (or drinks). All the bars that line Calle Rosa de Lisboa are full of fun and energy.

The Verdict

Make sure to add some day trips from Lisbon to your Portugal adventure! There is something for everyone to enjoy and indulge in, whether you’re an amateur archeologist or a professional beach bum. Be sure to give yourself enough time to soak it all in!

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The History of Susafa

This family-owned estate, which once served as a village, has hotel rooms, gardens, a fully functional farm, and a farmhouse that serves as a kitchen and restaurant. Located in the Sicilian countryside, Susafa is the most beautiful retreat for guests visiting the area. Fun fact: Domineco Dolce, of Dolce & Gabbana, hails from Polizzi Generosa.

The Hotel

With just a handful of rooms, guests can choose from standard rooms to suites. Each one includes comfy beds, a spacious shower, and an outdoor area complete with patio chairs for lounging. The estate at large features a bar that includes a verdant outdoor garden, a massive stone farmhouse where guests enjoy breakfast and dinner, a rooftop above the check in area where guests can enjoy a drink while admiring the surrounding farms and rustic landscape, and a picturesque pool with lounge chairs that give you unlimited views of the Sicilian countryside.

The Vibe

The aura at Susafa epitomizes the Sicilian countryside and is one of utter relaxation and indulgence. The gardens are beautiful and perfect for relaxing. The pool offers an exquisite and serene ambiance. And the restaurant is truly elegant and refined.

The Food

The majority of the food at Susafa is made from ingredients from the farm, resulting in fresh and delicious fare. Your day begins with a sublime breakfast buffet complete with made to order eggs, smoothies, and various breads. Local specialties such as brioche with granita are also featured. Lunch is a buffet served outdoors by the pool. The vegetarian buffet is in line with the hotel’s sustainability focus. The buffet is rife with succulent salads, cheeses, breads, olives swimming in fruity olive oil, and pasta tossed in freshly made pesto. Sweets like lemon tarts end the meal. Dinner includes multiple courses from a menu that changes daily. Offerings include dishes like a chickpea and greens soup, pasta swirled in a cream sauce and crowned with buttery bread crumbs, and chocolate cake.

The Activities

Although it may be tempting to simply relax by the pool all day, there are several activities worth indulging in while you are visiting this Sicilian countryside resort. First, a massage. The spa at Susafa is located outdoors, in a glass-enclosed room under the carob trees. It may be the most beautiful place you will ever enjoy a massage. An outdoor bath is offered as an add on. Then, wine tasting at the bar. Sicilian wines are bold and varied; don’t miss this opportunity to learn about them. Finally, foodie activities such as a cooking class where you will spend hours chatting and making pasta and pasta sauce from scratch. There are breaks for espresso and snacks for sampling, and then you will be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor with accompanying wine. There is also treetop picnic, where you can while away the afternoon in nature while nibbling on cheese and drinking wine.

Getting There

Because Susafa located in Sicilian countryside in the middle of the country you can fly into either Palermo or Catania and arrange for the hotel to send a driver to pick you up, or rent a car and drive.

The Verdict

Quite simply put, Susafa and the Sicilian countryside is a dream.

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The Food

The menu at Ceibo is small, but full of gems. Kick things off with the house-made bread and butter, and maybe the green herb salad. Salad is boring, you say? Not Ceibo’s–with pearl onions and shards of a gorgeous, fruity Venetian cheese called Ubriaco Rosso, dressed in a light sherry vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for wetting your palate without filling you up.

Next: plums served on a pillowy bed of creamy ricotta cheese, adorned with candied peanuts and honey to complement the plums. But the leek tart is the highlight of the menu. The buttery puff pastry cup, taleggio cheese, and delicate onion flavor of leeks make for a winning combination. Uruguayans are famous for their love of cheese, and chef Nacho Olivera is no exception. He proudly highlights the wide variety of cheeses that are popular in Uruguay.

Alongside your leek tart, be sure to sample the white asparagus. At Ceibo, the delicate spears are soaked in a velvety beurre blanc sauce, and topped with crispy breadcrumbs to add crunch. Craving more? Pickled eggplant in an eggplant ragu, hearty potato wedges, and oysters are also on the menu. But you may (must!) want to save room for dessert. The chocolate cake is a dream, with a generous pour of sweet dulce de leche sauce, as are the sweet and bright strawberries with lemon meringue. Don’t leave without ordering the Marti Fierro, a traditional Uruguayan dessert consisting of cheese topped with quince paste. Simple but delicious, the dish is named after Martín Fierro, who was an activist for gauchos, Uruguayan cowboys, as this was his favorite dessert.

The Drinks

If you fancy a cocktail, try the pomelo, gin, grapefruit, orange, and yerba mate beverage, which showcases the beloved South American tea. For wine, don’t pass over the Uruguay red wine, made with tannat, Uruguya’s national grape that oozes with spiciness and depth of flavor.

The Vibe at Ceibo

Ceibo is quiet, cozy, and intimate. It’s great for dinner with a date or a small group of friends. The staff is friendly and eager to share their tips on what to order. There’s nothing not to love!

The Verdict

Ceibo is a special addition to the Adams Morgan neighborhood and will quickly become a date night favorite!

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The Food at Aventino

Like all of Mike Friedman’s spots, the Italian fare at Aventino is hearty and mouth-watering. Kick off your meal with a traditional Roman flatbread called pizza rossa, simply topped with a jammy tomato conserva, sea salt and Sicilian oregano, and meaty artichokes smothered in buttery and crispy breadcrumbs and a lemony dressing, with elegant mint leaves as a garnish. From there, choose from a variety of pastas. For something decadent, try the cacio e pepe. Made with thick spaghetti strands called tonnarelli, the cheese and black pepper sauce is like a warm blanket that will wrap you up from the inside out. The ricotta-stuffed cappelletti is another great choice, with a creamy sunchoke-infused sauce and sunchoke chips for a crunchy note. Dessert options are equally as irresistible; the budino with dark chocolate ganache is decadent and luscious; the Amalfi lemon float is fun and unique with vanilla gelato and lemon granita doused in a juniper soda, and the apple cake comes with a gorgeous olive oil gelato that is just the right combination of sweet-salty-fruity-creamy.

The Drinks

Ranging from fun and unique to classic, there is a cocktail for everyone on this menu. For drinks on the lighter side, try the Sicilian spritz for something lesser known, made with Lambrusco and blood orange, or a classic Aperol spritz. For a boozier option, there is the pink lotus with Aperol, gin, lemon, egg white, and orange bitters, or a standard delicious negroni with gin, Campari, and vermouth.

The Vibe

The golden light fixtures, velvety bar stools surrounding the oval-shaped bar, and warm wooden floors are all recipes for an inviting dining experience. The staff is as warm and friendly as the décor, and the only issue will be getting a reservation at this already well-known spot.

The Verdict

This is already our new favorite spot in Bethesda! Aventino can get busy so make sure to reserve in advance. If you’re in Washington, D.C., check Mike Friedman’s other spots too. The Red Hen is also one of our favorites!

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Ilili DC

With its colorful interior, spacious windows, gorgeous hanging plants, and dangling gold light fixtures, Ilili is quite the place to dine. Lately, Ilili has started lunch services, which include a variety of unique dishes. You can design your meal as you fit. Maybe a series of mezza with hummus, labneh, or olives is all you need; maybe you prefer a salad, or maybe your appetite is calling for a full entrée. Whatever you choose, there are several standout dishes to keep in mind.

First, the hummus, made inhouse, which is so silky smooth it is practically buttery. You may choose to order your hummus with a topping; for something spicy, try the jalapenos; for a bit of crunch, add a sprinkling of the rich pine nuts, and if you are craving a meaty element, go with the umami sauteed wild mushrooms. Baba ghanoush is also a treat, super smoky and earthy, and the tabbouleh is bright, fresh, and tart. Perhaps best of all is the fatayer, with heaps of melted cheese, a doughy crust, and a drizzle of fragrant lavender honey. The fattoush salad is sunny and light, and the falafel is made with chickpeas and fava beans for an extra nutty kick.

If your lunch can include a cocktail, sample the thyme after thyme, which is light but brimming with earthy and bitter notes. The baklava, made with walnuts and pistachios, is flaky and sweet and begs to be eaten alongside a cup of Turkish coffee. You can make your lunch at Ilili quick one, but the ambiance and cuisine beckon you to dine, indulge, imbibe, and luxuriate in the gorgeous setting with impeccable fare.

Cranes

The fusion fare at Cranes is one of the best in the DMV, and now you can try Chef Pep Moncayo’s dishes at lunchtime. Delicate dumplings, where mashed edamame is enrobed in dumpling wrappers, steamed, and then doused with a buttery sauce with a sprinkling of spring peas, are sublime, as are the meaty mushroom gyoza. The red miso ramen is the star of the menu, with springy noodles, cubes of tofu in a sweet glazed miso sauce, a bold, savory tomato and miso broth, and lots of earthy veggies like grilled bok choy. For those who can’t decide, choose the bento box menu with several options from the menu. Close your meal with the yuzu cheesecake: it is undoubtedly the creamiest cheesecake you will ever have the pleasure of eating, and the contrast of the tart, acidic yuzu, and calamansi to the luscious cheese is sublime.

Seven Reasons

There are many updates related to Seven Reasons, including a new space down in CityCenterDC and a spectacular new brunch menu. From the finger-linking melted cheese tequeños, served with dollops of guava jam, to the irresistible avocado dip, served with egg yolk, to the crunchy waffles to the traditional Venezuelan breakfast with eggs, black beans, arepas, and fried cheese, this brunch has something for everyone. Vegans will appreciate the impossible burger, and those with a sweet tooth will not want to pass up the tres leches or mango flan. The brunch cocktails include pina coladas, espresso martinis, bloody marys, and tropical aperol spritzs. The brunch is a delight!

The Verdict

Visit all of these spots!

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Pascual

The Culinary Theme: Pascual chefs Matt Conroy and Isabel Coss, who hails from Mexico City, seek to showcase the diversity of Mexican cuisines and flavors. You can expect dishes from Oaxaca, Mexico City, and other localities across Mexico.

The Food and Drinks: The kitchen at Pasqual revolves around their wood-fired grill, and an element of every dish on the menu at least touched or rested above the wood grill, giving a smoky note to every item. Kick off your meal with an order of the guacamole, which comes a trio of salsas on the side, pickled veggies and crispy, freshly fried tostadas. Next, dive into garbanzos served on a bed of a vegetarian green chorizo flan and adorned with peppery santa hoja, a Mexican herb. The parsnip tamal comes drenched in a gorgeous blanco mole, a nutty mole hailing from Oaxaca, and is traditionally served to brides at their weddings because of its creamy white color. The fideos is one of the best dishes on the menu, with heaps of smoky mushrooms, huitlacoche, and black garlic. The earthy flavors and chewy texture of the dish are extraordinary. For dessert, try the buñuelo, a fun and surprisingly light dessert that comes fresh from the fryer with two sauces for dipping, one chocolate and one dulce de leche. Their cocktail menu features several mezcal concoctions; go with the Pascual Oaxacan Old Fashioned if you want to stick with the smokey theme, and those abstaining will love the non-alcoholic margarita.

The Vibe: The staff are warm and friendly, the dining room is small and cozy, and the restaurant is low with a shared love of exquisite food and carefully crafted beverages.

El Presidente

The Culinary Theme: The food at Stephen Starr’s newest DC venture, El Presidente, emphasizes dishes from Mexico City, and the massive menu has something for everyone.

The Food & Drinks: First, you need to order nachos. Smothered in melted cheese, beans, tart pickled onions, and a simple tomato salsa, these nachos are the perfect sharing dish to start your meal. Then – go crazy and order as many items as you want! Grilled Mexican street corn with chipotle mayo is sweet and rich and spicy all at once. Black bean enchiladas are cheesy and bold, and build-your-own mushroom tacos come with hunks of meaty portabellas, chewy charro beans, guacamole, and grilled shishito peppers. The drinks menu is equally extensive and tempting: there is a sweet frozen pineapple margarita, beer cocktails, and an impressive list of mezcals and tequilas.

The Vibe: The ornate and whimsical dining room of El President, located by Union Market, is just one of the many draws to this Mexican restaurant.

Amparo Fondita

The Culinary Theme: Amparo Fondita focuses on contemporary dishes from different states around Mexico. The restaurant seeks to honor Mexico’s culinary heritage and diversity through seasonal, heirloom ingredients. The result? Unique, super tasty dishes.

The Food & Drinks: Amparo’s several menu sections offer choices of botanos (which are small bites), tacos, entrees, side dishes, and desserts. Our advice: choose something from every section! From the botanos, order the quesadilla which is oozing with melted cheese and huitlacoche, featuring a heady truffle taste. From the taco section, the Swiss chard and potato option with its nutty pumpkin seed crema is meaty and filling. Main dishes skew to the traditional with choices such as various iterations of chili relleno. The fried plantains are sweet and glistening with butter and are served with a fiery salsa Negra as a side. Margaritas are a must and finish your meal with a sweet slice of tres leches cake, topped with bright crescents of mandarin oranges and bright pink raspberries.

The Vibe: Located in Dupont Circle, the restaurant has a warm and inviting ambiance with low lighting and booths that invite sharing and talking. Perfect for a group of friends who want to luxuriate over dishes and indulge in a bevy of beverages.

The post A Snapshot of D.C.’s Newest Mexican Restaurants appeared first on The Dining Traveler.

Rangoon: Burmese Garlic Noodles

Located in Chelsea, Rangoon has a comfortable, inviting interior and sensational menu full of classic Burmese dishes, including crispy squash tempura, served alongside a garlicky tamarind sauce, and Burmese egg curry, where boiled eggs come swimming in a chunky tomato sauce. The real highlight on the menu, however, is the garlic noodles, called kyarsen si chet in Burmese. Made with light and fresh thin rice noodles, the dish is bursting with the flavor of garlic in every strand. Shards of stir-fried cabbage, a handful of chopped green onions, and a sprinkling of fried shallots bring color and texture to the dish, serving as just the right contrast to the silky noodles. Garlic lovers, this dish is calling your name.

Le Bernardin: French Truffle Pasta

The truffle pasta at Eric Ripert’s French Le Bernardin is nothing short of extraordinary. The house-made tagliatelle is infused with Perigord black truffle, cooked to perfection, and then swirled in the most sinfully creamy black truffle butter sauce. The noodles will literally melt in your mouth. Savor every single bite.

Soda Club: Italian Bucatini

Soda Club offers up a host of delicious pasta (insider tip: you can sample all of them if you do their six-course pasta tasting, which is $75 AND includes a bottle of wine!), but the most comforting of them all is their bucatini. The hollow noodles are smothered in a bold arrabbiata sauce and then topped with crispy breadcrumbs and shards of vegan parmesan cheese. It’s a classic comfort dish that never gets old.

Hao Noodle: Chinese Dan Dan Noodles

The sunlit, plant-filled dining room at Hao Noodle is the perfect spot for enjoying a bowl of dan dan noodles. The thin noodles are tossed in a gorgeous, heady sauce comprised of peanuts, sesame, chili oil, and scallions. Each bite is full of the nutty flavor of peanut and sesame, the spicy warmth of chili oil, and the chewy goodness of the noodles.

Suram: Japanese Impossible Tan Tan Ramen

There is nothing not to love about ramen, and the impossible ramen at Suram is particularly divine. The chewy, springy ramen noodles are soaked in a smooth miso broth and crowned with spicy impossible meat, meaty mushrooms, and crunchy bamboo shoots and scallions. It is so warm and flavorful that you will keep eating well beyond being full!

The post Spotlight on five New York noodle dishes from around the globe appeared first on The Dining Traveler.