Where to Eat in Washington, DC

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Washington DC & Baltimore Area

Forty-plus years ago, around the time that President John F. Kennedy described Washington, D.C. as "a town of southern efficiency and northern charm," dining in the nation's capital was anything but adventurous. But French food – and wine – arrived in Washington with JFK, and over the years that followed so did a host of other international food styles, as well as Modern American cooking. So if you're coming here for the Inauguration, or to work in the new administration, you'll find a broad range of culinary choices. Let me introduce you to some of my favorites – and before long, you'll have a list of your own! Courtesy of <a target="blank" href="http://www.cbswatchmagazine.com/"><i>Watch</i></a> magazine.

1. Citronelle
3000 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20007

Michel Richard's Citronelle is at the top of most Washington lists. Richard's modern take on French cooking comes with an enormous helping of wit and fun. The wine cellar under the direction of Mark Slater is huge – and the wines, from all parts of the world, are superb. For a more casual meal, the bar menu features his Lobster and Tuna Burgers. Be sure to ask for the perfectly done fries with aioli, mayo and ketchup sauces.
2. Marcel's
2401 Pennsylvania Ave., Washington, DC 20037

In a more classical Belgian/French tradition, there's Marcel's, the creation of Chef Robert Wiedmaier. His perfectly-executed dishes are enhanced by the ambience – terrific jazz piano at the bar.
3. CityZen Restaurant
1330 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20024

Another top-tier favorite, CityZen, in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, features New American style cooking. The chef once worked for the French Laundry's Thomas Keller – and it shows. The food is inventive and delicious.
4. Kinkead's Restaurant
2000 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20006-1812

Kinkead's specialty is seafood – Bob Kinkead hails from Boston and knows how to make it delicious. He also has a superb wine cellar.
5. Komi
1509 17th St NW Ste 1, Washington, DC 20036

A small place with a brilliant young chef.
6. Palena
3529 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008

A first-rate classical Italian restaurant run by a former White House chef.
7. Westend Bistro
1190 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20037

From New York top chef Eric Ripert.
8. Equinox Restaurant
818 Connecticut Ave NW Frnt 1, Washington, DC 20006

Where Chef Todd Grey uses organic ingredients.
9. Proof
775 G Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001

A fabulous wine bar with a superb chef;
10. Central Michel Richard
1001 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20004

Michel Richard's more casual bistro-style eatery.
11. Cafe Atlantico
405 8th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20004

This and Minibar are two of the terrific restaurants of Chef Jose Andres.