Mr. Pitofsky goes to Washington
GETAWAYS • Washington, DC
Recent drinking and dining highlights from our nation’s capital:
A CLASSY JOINT: After five visits in the last year, I feel secure calling Jônt, from chef Ryan Ratino, one of the best restaurants in the country. Fourteen counter seats offer guests a front row view of the action, which includes live-fire cooking. At $375 per for the multi-hour Japanese-influenced tasting menu, it’s not cheap. But you get exactly what you pay for: multiple types of caviar, truffles, and the highest quality fish, direct from Japan.
→ Jônt (Logan Circle) • 1904 14th St NW • Reserve.
BASQUE GLORY: The most recent concept from chef Johnny Spero, Bar Spero, is a seafood-forward restaurant incorporating live-fire cooking (again!) in a seasonal à la carte menu. I’m not sure I’ve had a better preparation of cooked oysters than the grilled Island Creeks with sidra blanc sauce, pickled garlic, and brown butter. Also, don’t miss the whole roasted turbot with a stunning herbed cod dashi emulsion — it’ll deposit you directly on the coast of Spain. Bonus: The burger is one of the best in town.
→ Bar Spero (East End) • 250 Massachusetts Ave NW • Reserve.
WE HAVE IGNITION: If inventive cocktails are of interest, there’s no better place in town than José Andrés’ Barmini. A longtime DC staple, its popularity is unwavering, thanks to elaborate presentations (above) and excellent service in a cozy, modernist space. It doesn’t hurt that the food comes from two-Michelin-Star neighbor and sister restaurant, Minibar. Don’t miss the grilled cheese. It has no equal. –Lee Pitofsky