These new eateries are gearing up to dish out some of the city’s finest eats this spring.
At Newland, try colorful, seasonal dishes, or taste an array of plates by indulging in the seven-course tasting menu
Bar Spero
Inspired by the nightlife in Spain’s Basque Country, chef Johnny Spero brings openhearth cooking and a raw bar to the city’s East End this summer. The neon-accented space will include a woodfired grill and bar stocked with sherry, vermouth, wine and beers on tap. Bar Spero’s impressive a la carte menu will feature decadent dishes like rich duck and whole turbot from Spain along with specialty seafood from Maine. 250 Massachusetts Ave. NW, barspero.com
Newland
Through every dish and interior detail at this whimsical new American restaurant, chef Andrew Markert pays homage to his greatest childhood and career influences. Inside Newland’s polished dining room, the marble bar serves as a showstopping centerpiece, while pops of soft whites, pinks and blues accentuate the stunning wood millwork. Since opening in March, guests can now flatter their taste buds with technique-driven dishes, like the dry-aged duck breast served with a salted plum sugo and pate. 327 Seventh St. SE, 202.525.1395, newlanddc.com
Petite Cerise
Indulge in French cuisine with chef Jeremiah Langhorne and Alex Zink’s newest concept, Petite Cerise. Nestled on the corner of Seventh and L streets, Petite Cerise is slated to open this summer, eventually serving simple breakfasts, leisurely lunches and regional French specialties. From perfect omelets with wild foraged chanterelles, handmade sausages and marmalades to bouillabaisse made with local seafood, the James Beard Awardwinning chef will whip up fresh-from-the-market cooking in this light and casual space. 1027 Seventh St.NW, petitecerisedc.com
St. James
Taste the flavors of the Caribbean as St. James opens its doors—and, soon after, patio—to the District this spring. Owner Jeanine Prime celebrates the cuisine and culture of her native Trinidad through a carefully crafted menu. Savor bites like the curry crab and dumplings, or a popular Caribbean callaloo soup made with coconut milk, scotch bonnet peppers and crab, among other seasonings. 2017 14th St. NW, stjames-dc.com
Photography by: Kimberly Kong
