WASHINGTON — As the temperature drops and the leaves change colors, autumn’s arrival is hard to deny. The air may be cooling, but there are plenty of reasons to grab a coat and go out to eat in D.C. this fall.
Rose’s Luxury is at the top of the list according to Tom Sietsema, food critic for The Washington Post.
“Despite the line you have to wait in, it is a phenomenal restaurant,” Sietsema says of Aaron Silverman’s intimate concept that doesn’t accept reservations.
The restaurant, which boasts an exclusive rooftop patio, isn’t terribly expensive, especially for the unique experience it provides.
“Not only is the food delicious, and the service is warm and gracious, fun and personal, but you have these unusual combinations of things that you might not think would go together,” said Sietsema.
Both locations of Rasika come tied for second, says Sietsema. The classic Indian cuisine is served at restaurants in West End and Penn Quarter specializes in taking American ingredients and making them into Indian dishes.
The Penn Quarter location is celebrating its 10 year anniversary this year, and it continues to stay relevant in the city’s evolving food scene with fresh renovations.
“Those restaurants are two of the finest Indian restaurants in the county,” said Sietsema. “I’ve eaten Indian food all over the country and I think what [James Beard Award-winning Chef] Vikram [Sunderam] is doing over there is really special.”
Sietsema ranks Italian “secret” Masseria close behind with creative cocktails at the and a tasting menu in the dining room.
“It’s kind of hard to find. It’s hidden behind a big wooden wall across from Union Market,” said Sietsema. “But you walk in and all of a sudden you’re in the Italian countryside.”
“It really feels special, it feels like a little secret,” he added. “Although, I think the secret is out.”
You can find Sietsema’s top 10 recommendations this season at The Washington Post.
