From new modern Indian cuisine to DC’s first vegan bar, restaurants and cocktail venues give Washingtonians plenty of reasons to explore this summer.
Chicken short ribs at Rania
Rania
Owner Karan Singh and executive chef Chetan Shetty recently unveiled a wild new iteration of their much beloved Punjab Grill. Shetty, who has helmed kitchens at New York and Delhi’s acclaimed Indian Accent, will introduce guests to unexpected dishes like monkfish (with spinach kaipu and turmeric moilee) and Parsi chicken (with salli allo and masala egg). We also love the DJ-curated playlists of Middle Eastern and Indian beats. 427 11th St. NW, 202.804.6434, raniadc.com
Botanical Bar
We scratched our collective heads in the office when we heard news about the District’s first vegan bar. But when we heard the minds behind the opening, Leah Curran Moon and Michael Jantz Moon of DC Vegan, are the same ones who offer plant-based catering for corporate and private events, it made sense. The bar features botanical cocktails, local craft beer and vegan wine, plus Italian fare from DC Vegan’s deli located in the building. Here’s to everyone’s health, literally. 1633 P St. NW, 202.297.0886, dc-vegan.com
Confections and outstanding fare at the St. James.
St. James
Jeanine Prime, who has received hosannas for Trinidadian restaurant Cane, recently opened the modern Caribbean concept St. James. The 67-seat dining room features a menu that celebrates the diversity of Caribbean cuisine (African, East Indian, Chinese, Portuguese and French), along with creative cocktails and a thoughtful wine list, all designed to pair with the flavor profiles of the food. Alfredo Romero Contreras, St. James’ newly appointed chef, joins the team from Fabio Trabocchi’s Fiola Mare. 2017 14th St. NW, 202.627.2981, stjames-dc.com
Johnny Spero, who was awarded a Michelin star this spring for Reverie, recently opened Bar Spero.
Bar Spero
Johnny Spero can do no wrong in the kitchen, as his first restaurant, Reverie, received a Michelin star this spring. He’s also proving again that his bar concepts are worthy of praise. Bar Spero, located between Union Station and the East End, is a sleek, multilevel space with modern neon accents, cozy booths and stylish four-tops. Patron will find Spero’s seafood-focused mid- Atlantic fare, along with a focus on high-end spirits, a tightly curated list of sherries, vermouths and wine. 250 Massachusetts Ave. NW, barspero.com
Photography by: GREG POWERS; Courtesy of St. James; Courtesy of Bar Spero
