Restaurant Relationship Status: It’s Complicated

My relationship status with restaurants became official in August 2010, when I launched Been There, Eaten That. My feelings have intensified through the years. Fine dining has played a role in every milestone in my life. Family members and friends- without exception- can relay a story about dining with me, and most likely how I […]

Reality Bites: Albi, RASA, Hatoba, Coconut Club

NOTE: Coconut Club is Closed Until Spring 2021 It’s fitting that as the temperature rises, more people are dipping their toes into social distancing with friends and family, shifting from grocery delivery to actual grocery shopping, and planning their return to restaurants as DC announces a plan to allow for outdoor service beginning today. I’m […]

Nina May: Happy as a Clam

“Are you content?” The server at the new Nina May in Shaw glances at our party of four with anticipation and a smile. We have chosen the “Chef’s Choice” concept, and the question of contentment is key.  For $39 you permit the chef to determine what he’ll cook for you, after the server ascertains food […]

Blue Duck Tavern: ‘Tis the Season

Here’s something cool about Blue Duck Tavern, located in the Park Hyatt in DC’s West End. Even in frosty weather, you can sit outside in their Fire Garden with heaters and blankets providing additional warmth. A hot toddy or mulled wine is the consummate warm-up to dinner. Blue Duck Tavern strikes me as a fine […]

Closed. Mintwood Place: Reunited (2019)

Mintwood Place is Permanently Closed.  You know those old friends you don’t see very often, but when you finally get together the camaraderie and warm, fuzzy feelings come rushing back? This is how I feel when I make a long overdue return visit to Mintwood Place in Adams Morgan. Mintwood Place is a French-influenced bistro that […]

Emilie’s: SAVE THE BRANZINO! (Closed)

Note: Emilie’s Closed in 2020 It begins innocently enough. It’s my first visit to eat at Emilie’s, the new restaurant from Chef Kevin Tien on Capitol Hill. Visions of fried chicken are dancing in my head. I’ve heard raves about the deep-fried bird which is accompanied by ranch dressing and a hot sauce made from fermented […]

Mama Chang: A Religious Experience

As my husband heads to synagogue, which he does every Saturday morning, I sit at my kitchen table with my own version of worship. I take a deep breath and think back on my week. What did I accomplish at work? What did I read, listen to, or watch that has made an impact on […]

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