The city's culinary scene is blooming with fantastic new French bistros and bakeries offering everything from delightful pastries to decadent bistro classics.
Indulge in Riviera-Inspired Cuisine at L'Avant-Garde
Georgetown's chic L'Avant-Garde boasts a brand new menu courtesy of Chef Sébastien Giannini. While the restaurant bid farewell to founding chef Gilles Epié's focus on foie gras and Chateaubriand, Giannini's arrival brings a wave of fresh, Riviera-inspired flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Tuna tartare with a unique twist - featuring dates, almonds, and harissa for a delightful sweet and savory combination.
- Branzino, a Mediterranean seabass, gets a luxurious upgrade with shaved bottarga (cured mullet roe) and candied lemon.
- Don't miss their classic roast chicken or the playful "strawberries three ways" dessert featuring the fruit in jelly, sorbet, and marshmallow form.
Del Ray's Gem: Gustave Boulangerie
Del Ray residents have a new reason to celebrate! Gustave Boulangerie offers a delightful breakfast spread, complete with friendly staff sporting adorable Breton shirts. This cozy bakery transforms at night, opening its backyard into a dog-friendly haven and serving up wine and beer alongside its delicious pastries.
Pastry Picks:
- Kouign-amann, a decadent Breton pastry with a caramelized crust, is a must-try.
- For a touch of familiarity, go for their raisin-swirl or cinnamon bun offerings.
- Canelés, small, custard-based pastries with a caramelized exterior, are another delightful choice.
From Booeymonger to Bistro: La Bonne Vache
Step into La Bonne Vache and you'd never guess it was once a 50-year-old deli! This charming bistro, helmed by two restaurant power couples, offers a warm atmosphere, delicious food, and (unsurprisingly) a lively crowd.
Menu Musts:
- Start your meal with the airy and cheesy gougères, savory puff pastries.
- La Bonne Vache takes the classic burger to new heights with their steak au poivre burger.
- Opt for the chicken paillard for a lighter option, or indulge in the decadent crème caramel for dessert.
A Taste of New York in DC: Pastis
Stephen Starr and Keith McNally bring their popular New York bistro, Pastis, to DC's Union Market. This bustling restaurant boasts a massive menu, so be sure to choose wisely. While some dishes may fall short, others shine brightly.
Top Picks:
- Escargots - a French classic, perfect for adventurous palates.
- Moules frites - a timeless combination of mussels and fries, perfect for a casual meal.
- Skip the New York strip, but definitely consider the steak hache - a unique dish that combines the best of a burger and a mustardy steak tartare.
- Other noteworthy options include lemon spaghetti, pierogi, and grilled branzino.
So, ditch the plane ticket and explore the delightful world of French cuisine at these exciting new DC hot spots! From Riviera-inspired fare to classic bistro staples and delectable pastries, there's something to satisfy every French food craving.