Birch & Barley
Famous for its artisanal beer selection and fresh-off-the-farm cuisine (think out-of-this-world flatbreads and a hearty mix of meats, veggies, and scrumptious desserts), Birch & Barley is one of our favorite down-to-earth haunts. If you’re a brunch aficionado or a brew connoisseur (who isn't?), you can't go wrong booking a cozy booth or a table in front of the open kitchen.
Where: 1337 14th Street NW; 202-567-2576.
Graffiato
Need a break from those packed lunches you've been wolfing down in front of your computer? Treat yourself to a lunchtime trip to Italy, by way of New Jersey, at Graffiato. Helmed by chef Mike Isabella, this buzz-worthy spot serves up dishes inspired by the ones Isabella's Italian-American grandmother made for him, when he was a kid. We say: More, please!
Where: 707 6th Street NW; 202-289-3600.
Zola
Zola, the tried-and-true Penn Quarter spot, is our must-visit venue for contemporary cuisine. Think all-American comfort food with a side of subtle luxury — the braised pork belly, brown-butter trout, and sweet-onion lamb shank are all worthy options.
Where: 800 F Street NW; 202-654-0999.
El Centro D.F.
Looking for inspired Mexican food way above the border? El Centro D.F.'s taqueria-tequileria combo offers a casual atmosphere, top-notch margaritas, to-die-for enchiladas, and a lovely rooftop bar. We could live off the tacos alone, but there are plenty of other palate-pleasing options on the menu.
Where:1819 14th Street NW; 202-328-3131.
Photos: Via Graffiato/Greg Powers; Via El Centro D.F.