The Dabney

Wandered into the bar here some years back and finally now got around to making a proper reservation and it did not disappoint. Each course was well presented and had a fanatic mix of flavors. Staff were attentive, both to allergens and to our experience. Really went above and beyond with everything on our visit. Atmosphere and ambiance were great, colonial inspired with a healthy dose of the modern. Being seated near the hearth was a treat. Could feel the warmth of the fire from our table, and it's always nice to see the staff working. My only dig are the chairs, while they look nice, the back bar rest was at just the right spot to dig into my lower back. Was painful by the very end of the night and still sore in the morning. Even with that one sore spot, would do it all over again. Absolutely worth it to stop by. Even if just for the cocktails.

We went to the Danny for dinner. It was very good. The wine pairing was very good especially for the dessert. There was one that was a bit disappointing (the beans) it reminded me of eating chili which is not really something I would expect at such a nice restaurant. Other than that, everything else was fantastic. My favorite was the appetizers and the dessert. The sommelier really made the evening. He told us stories about the wines and the wineries they came from. Would I go there again ? Absolutely !

Ok - it’s a bit tricky to find. And when you do you’ll probably go through the wrong door. BUT it’s excellent. I’d had lots of good food IN America, but I was looking for good food FROM America. After a slight delay in being seated (I have to say I I don’t expect he to just be asked to stand and wait in a Michelin starred restaurant) ones given a brilliant seat where I could see all the cooking action. I ordered the Tasting Menu and the premium wine selection. Both were excellent. Good quality produce, often from known suppliers, cooked with care on the open grill. The hints to American traditional cooking were evident: the Corn Bread and grits was excellent, I loved the Wagyu Beef- melt in be mouth, … and be wine pairings were inspired and served with care and knowledge by Joe the Sommelier. Tom, the chef kindly came and chatted after. Excellent meal of fantastic American food. Only real down side is it’s not cheap: Ok I had the premium wine pairing, but do be prepared for a hefty bill. But was it the best American Food I’ve ever had and did it I sore me to explore the cuisine more - definitely. Save up and give it a go!!

A friend who lives in the greater DC area recommended it back some time. It's in a cute area over near Howard University, about a 10minute walk from the metro. It had a smart upper-middle class hip vibe. I was alone but I think it would be a good place for a comfortable date. I had the 3 course pre-fix at the bar on a Friday night for $120. It was a little loud and the bartender was a little fast while the server was a little slow. The ham crisp amuse bouche and the sausage with ramps and mustard were great. The strawberry short cake like rhubarb dessert was excellent. (And I don't even like strawberry nor rhubarb.) Yea, I'd go back in a heart beat when in DC again.