Pass-Over Pacifico Cantina

C Says...

So I grew up in Southern California, therefore, I'm an admitted snob when it comes to Mexican food.  Since moving to DC 11 years ago (gasp), I have yet to find any Mexican food that's remotely close to home...or to Tijuana.  Salvadoran? Check.  Peruvian?  Check.  Mexican?  Negative.

For this month's exploits, I decided to try DC's latest Mexican food restaurant even if my expectations were super low walking in the door.  Pacifico Cantina in Eastern Market met the low bar I'd set.  The mojito was fine; nothing spectacular.  After asking the waiter what he preferred, I chose the enchiladas with red mole sauce.  It was fine, but I like my enchiladas better.  And spicier.  Talk about blah.

What Pacifico lacks in flavor (although, I was pleased that they didn't give me a plate full of refried beans and cheese like so many restaurants passing Mexican food off do), it makes up for in outdoor seating.  Not only are there tables on the sidewalk, but there's a massive roof deck that would be a lovely setting for a cocktail on a nice day.

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J Says...

It was C's pick and she selected Pacifico Cantina in Eastern Market. Having not heard of such a restaurant (as I've clearly heard of Eastern Market), I looked forward to trying out the latest mexican restaurant in my nearby hood. I should have tempered my expectations.

Starting off with a delicious frozen strawberry margarita (which is pretty hard to screw up), the rest of the meal became less and less flavorful. The complimentary chips and salsa were standard and a bit stale. The chicken with red chili mole "big badass burrito" was surprisingly lacking in flavor, pizazz or any kind of excitement. In fact, I've had more tasty burritos at mass-produced Chipotle. The only "big" impression it made was how "badass" it wasn't.

Intended to double as a celebratory dinner for C's recent house purchase, we opted to leave immediately rather than have another cocktail or, gasp, try a likely-flavorless dessert. It's pretty clear I'm saying adios to Pacifico Cantina for my future business.  

Pacifico Cantina, 514 8th Street, SE, Washington, DC, 20003, (202) 507-8143

Sixth Engine: Fair Firehouse Fare

C Says...

I've been curious about Sixth Engine for quite some time since it's one of the few restaurants on Massachusetts Ave between NPR and Union Station.  Sadly, I wish I'd let curiosity kill the cat in this instance.

The renovated fire station is very cute and there are nice touches here and there are nods to DC of decades ago (the building is listed on the National List of Historic Places).  Unfortunately though, the food was incredibly disappointing.  As J describes below, the skillet corn bread was delicious and I kind of wish we'd just stuck to carb loading between bread and beer (I am training for the Marine Corps Marathon after all).

Alas, I decided to try the grilled shrimp with the coconut curry quinoa and lemongrass pesto.  The shrimp was nicely grilled, but there wasn't anything spectacular about it -- in fact it was really under-seasoned.  The quinoa however was something else entirely.  There was no coconut, no curry, no nothing -- only a tinge of what can best be described as dish water.  As for the lemongrass pesto, color me confused, because I still don't know where that was on the plate. All in all, this dish was a total miss.

Needless to say, this was the first truly disappointing meal we've had in quite a while; I don't think I'll return to give it another try, and I doubt I'll tell others to give it a shot.

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J Says...

Having visited Sixth Engine before and absolutely loving the food (and service...Shout out to Patty O'Connor!), I was eager to return with C for our monthly dinner blog.  Perhaps I drank too much the last time, because this time was worse than mediocre.  

We started with a special appetizer, the cast-iron skillet cornbread...which, without question, was the standout course of the entire dinner. Quite filling and accompanied by three different spreads, it was perfect for sharing and complimented our beers nicely. Then, not seeing the ravioli I had tried last time I was there, I selected the roasted chicken with dirty foie gras rice, sautéed spinach & truffle sauce. The chicken was boring and bland...the rice was a mixture of hot and cold while lacking real flavor in either temperature...and the spinach was just an odd choice to be included on this plate. For one of the few times in my life, I didn't finish my plate and opted to just enjoy my beer.

I'm torn if I will give Sixth Engine another try as I really loved my first experience and feel utterly let down with my second. Either way, I'm not rushing back to the converted fire department station...though I do like the decor quite a bit.

Sixth Engine, 438 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Washington, DC, 20001, (202) 506-2455

Pig Out at The Pig...No Seriously

C Says...
The Pig, in a word, is ah-mazing.  Maybe that's two words, but you get the idea.  Part of the Eat Well food group (Logan Tavern, Commissary, The Heights, etc.), The Pig is hand's down the best of the bunch.

After living in Logan Circle for more than seven years (I moved a few years ago), I'm in constant awe of how much 14th Street NW has changed; The Pig is a welcomed addition.  Featuring, as you may have guessed, a menu focused on all things pig, the descriptions really don't do the options justice.  As J describes below we opted to select many options from the "boxed" part of the menu -- small plates to share.  Here's a round-up of a few:

• Wild Boar Ragu -- granted, wild boar sounded a bit strange to me, but the boar was braised to perfection, tender, and full of flavor. It's served very simply with pappardelle and pecorino.
• Pig Ears -- now, I've always shunned away from pigs' ears, but I figured when in Rome.  Sadly, this dish didn't live up to my low expectations.  The ears were a bit tough and the texture was, well, ear-like.  I'd recommend passing on these and trying the charred belly or pork chop -- two items we didn't try.
• Smoked Carolina BBQ -- I mean just stop.  This dish was ridiculous...ridiculously good.  There's just something so quintessentially American about pulled pork, and this didn't disappoint.  Served with Mac & Cheese (we ordered an additional side), it was just perfect.
• Sundae Bloody Sundae -- Now, I may not be that much of a fan of dessert, but I've been a fan of U2 since I was 13, so clearly the name of this dessert intrigued me; as did the description:  blood chocolate ice cream, peanut butter bacon brittle, and a ginger whipped cream.  After so many delicious dinner options, I had no room for dessert, but the other J and I were too intrigued by blood chocolate ice cream.  Thankfully we were able to get a few scoops.  As you may have surmised, the ice cream does in fact have pig's blood as an ingredient.  Apparently blood has been used in Europe as a binder in dairy for centuries.  Yes, it sounds gross, but it tastes unbelievably amazing.  I'm not sure I could order this again -- there is a queasy factor -- but this ice cream was more mousse-like and completely unexpected.

This meal at The Pig was one of the best I've had in a very long time.  If you love any and all things pork, you really must give it a try.

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J Says...



When C told me...with great excitement...that her choice for this month's dinner was The Pig, two thoughts immediately came to mind: 1) I have to bring the Other J, since his middle name might as well be "bacon"; and 2) this is exactly the opposite of what my doctor told me to eat. So doctor be damned, off to hog heaven we went. Advised by the very friendly waitress that we should plan on 2-3 dishes per person, we opted for 9 total (3x3 = math ain't hard). I will focus on my favorites...and least. First to the faves:

• Braised Cheeks served with Spanish sofrito and stone grits was hands-down one of the best courses of my entire WEEK (sorry work cafeteria). Full of flavor, heat and heart, I certainly would not turn my other cheek to this amazing dish.

• Meatballs of a pork/lamb combo served in stewed tomato sauce and charred arugula (something green was a refreshing scene!). With 3 balls served for 3 people, we each got one...though I seriously considered distracting the Other J with more mac and cheese so I could snatch his.

• Fried Smashed Potatoes were, unequivocally, the most unexpected dish to arrive to the table. Both in terms of presentation (think tatter tots) and taste (think spicy mashed french fries), it was the first plate to arrive and started the night off right.

Of course, there were some parts of the pig that I was more squeal-y about....namely the Crispy Pig Ears (uninteresting and lacking in real flavor) and Porchetta (I was in the minority of not enjoying this dish). Topped with a great selection of on-site beverages, particularly hard ciders (a personal favorite), I'd recommend others to indulge in their animalistic carnivorous sides by going to The Pig. I'd warn though that you should only have a salad for lunch beforehand and prepare to visit the bathroom...only because of all the fun pig-centric decorations they have in there!

The Pig, 1320 14th St. NW, Washington DC, 20005, (202) 290-2821

Lovin' Luke's Lobster

C Says --

 

Our schedules for May were unusually ridiculous -- so J and I were "forced" to meet on a lovely Sunday for lunch.  Originally, J picked Meatballs near the Verizon Center; imagine my suprise when I rolled up on my bike to find a closed Meatballs -- le sigh.  However, Luke's Lobster right next door was open and bustling.  I'd been wanting to try Luke's for a while now, so I was happy when J agreed.

Luke Holden first opened Luke's Lobster in New York in 2009 after moving to the city to work in finance.  Having grown up in Maine, he was dismayed by the quality of lobster rolls in the city. He called his dad, a seafood processor, and realized they were onto something.  Now, Luke's boasts 6 locations in NY and DC (a Bethesda location is rumored to be opening soon), in addition to a food truck.

The restaurant itself is small -- there is outdoor seating -- and filled with the usual seafood kitsch: buoys, lobster traps, etc.  On a Sunday afternoon, it was doing a brisk business, but in no way felt crowded or crammed.

Not really knowing which of the rolls to try, I selected the Taste of Maine -- a half shrimp, half lobster, and half crab roll.  They were all fantastic and super fresh!  Paired with some chips and a Shipyard beer -- the meal was perfect.

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J Says --

Taking a break from the mid-week dinners, I opted for a Sunday lunch with C (plus our schedules weren't conducive to dinner this month). I had wanted to hit up Meatballs, but stupidly I didn't check to see if it was open on Sundays. By the way, it's not. So we tried out Luke's Lobster next door. MY GOD I'M GLAD WE DID!

First and foremost, the concept of a very limited menu with a very reasonable price was a refreshing change of pace for us. While being raised in New England and loving most things from the sea (sorry tuna), I'm not one to be adventurous with lobster-crab-shrimp rolls. And I'm not really a mayo person...at all. Man, was all that changed with this visit. I think the shrimp roll was my favorite, though let me be honest...I didn't dislike any of the options. Paired with chips and a diet coke, what a great Sunday afternoon meal (that didn't include a mimosa).

All in all, I'm glad I screwed up with Meatballs, because Luke's Lobster was an amazing selection.

Luke's Lobster, 624 E. Street NW, Washington, DC, (202) 347-3355

Amazing Eats at The Atlas Room

C Says --

The Atlas Room was recommended to me by a colleague.  She basically had me at, "short rib ravioli."  In a word, these are little nuggets of sheer bliss and heaven on a plate.  The Atlas Room is the brain child of Matt Cordes -- the owner and chef.  The menu focuses a central ingredient presented in three different ways, and portion sizes.  As I mentioned, I started with the short rib ravioli.  You should RUN not WALK to try these.  They were in a word, unbelieveable.

For my main course I selected the lamb duo with a root vegetable gratin, broccoli rabe, olives, smoked paprika aioli, Fennel emulsion & rosemary lamb jus.  While I love olives, I didn't really understand why there were on the plate.  The rest of the vegetables though were excellent and fresh.

The cocktail list is great and an homage to old-timey cocktails of days gone by.  The Atlas Room is small and quaint and a great date place for sharing small plates or going full-hog and ordering many items.  It's a great addition to the burgeoning H Street Corridor dining/night life scene.

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J Says --

So C chose to take us to H Street NE for a new joint that had opened called The Atlas Room. Not knowing what to expect, I immediately enjoyed the décor and felt it was a great symbol of transition for the neighborhood and its cuisine.

Offering “small”…”shared”…and “full” courses, we each opted for a small (to share, take that!) and a full plate. I went with the lamb meatballs as my small dish – one word: DELICIOUS. I can easily say they were as comparable in flavor to the short rib ravioli, which immediately set the tone for the dinner. For a full course, I went with Spring Pork Duo. Honestly, I remember it being fine, but nowhere near the excitement of the small plates. That’s always the fear you have when going with the big bold dishes to start.

With the wine and specialty drinks selection, the place has all the fixings of being a must-go for H street – exactly what that blooming neighborhood needs. I look forward to returning, though I may just order a slew of small plates since they are that damn good!

The Atlas Room, 1015 H Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20002, (202) 388-4020

Manga at Lavagna

C Says --

I like Italian food and I like neighborhood joints, so Lavagna seemed like a great choice for our March dinner; and it didn't disappoint. Italian for "slate," Lavagna is no frills, no fuss, just good food.

We started with the prosciutto arancini. I was epecting a few of the delicious fried risotto balls, but alas, all we got was one giant arancini. It was good...but doesn't top the ones at Two Amy's -- I dream about them. Well, not really, but I could.

There was a lot on the menu that enticed me, including the porchetta, but seeing as all the pastas are home-made, I ultimately decided on the gnocchi. Generally for me gnocchi can be dense and heavy and gut-busting. Lavagna's were none of these. They were almost delicate, and so delicious that I cleaned my plate.

While I'm not sure Lavagna will be a "go-to destination" for me, it's a great addition to Barrack's Row and a nice place for a good, reasonably priced, Italian meal.

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J Says --

It was my turn to choose and I was having a momentary lapse of inspiration, so I turned to my colleague “M” who recommended Lavagna. He said it would be more comfortable than chic, yet the food spoke for itself. “No bells and whistles needed.” Well, I’d like a bell or whistle please. The décor is quite welcoming and relaxed and I loved the chalkboard menus – even commenting to the waiter that we can change the price if we think it’s too high.

As C and I shared the appetizer, I ordered the Rigatoni Pesto with Italian sausage. Very visually appealing with a unique way to infuse the pesto, it was quite filling and very delicious. To be honest, there were several items I wanted to try but was quite happy with my decision.

I guess my main critique is the lack of wine selection. For an Italian restaurant in the heart of Eastern Market, I’d hope for greater selection. The wine I chose was fine but nothing stellar. This would be a great bell or whistle for Lavagna to add. All in all, I wouldn’t disagree with returning if someone suggested the restaurant, but I’m not in a rush to go back. Honestly, I’m equally content at Olive Garden (taboo!).

Lavagna, 539 8th Street, SE, Washington, DC 20003, (202) 546-5006

In a West End town...get to Westend Bistro

C Says --

In addition to my love for Jose Andres and Anthony Bourdain, I have tremendous love for Eric Ripert. I mean, what's not to love? The silvery mane, the French accent, the guest appearances on Top Chef, the French accent, etc. A trip to Westend Bistro has been on my list for quite some time, so why not for my birthday dinner?

Now, I'm not normally a duck eater -- and after my superb duck confit meal, I'm confused as to why I'm not. The duck was excellent and paired nicely with a white bean and sausage "cassoulet." It was light, yet flavor filled and likely one of the highlights of the menu. I had my eye on the truffled mashed potatoes, which aren't listed as a side menu item, but how can you pass up mashed potatoes with truffles??? I asked the waiter if I could get some and he (and the kitchen) kindly obliged. They lived up to every expectation I had!

For dessert we selected the butterscotch sundae, which was divine; and I added a glass of Bailey's -- it was my birthday afterall! For a nice meal, a possible spotting of Eric Ripert, and good ambiance, I highly recommend Westend.

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J Says --

As it is with every February, C’s birthday selection would be tears to my wallet (kidding! Sorta). And this year didn’t disappoint with a trip to The Ritz. More specifically, Eric Ripert’s Westend Bistro. Truth be told, I had already been introduced to this fine establishment a few months ago by a fantastic CBS producer/friend, so I was quite happy to return to celebrate C.

Opting to skip the appetizer course in exchange for dessert later on, we went straight to dinner. My selection was the braised short ribs – a complete shock to even myself as this tends to be the other J’s staple dining choice. Served with truffle mashed potatoes, I thoroughly enjoyed the tender ribs and made quick work of my meal while eying dessert (and the unfinished duck on C’s plate – I eat faster than she does!). Thus, I ordered another glass of wine to pass the time, as they have a comprehensive list.

As I enjoy Mr. Ripert on Top Chef and other various shows, I absolutely enjoy the Westend Bistro and will be returning in the near future, though hoping not to pay the entire bill. Happy Birthday C!


Westend Bistro, 1190 22nd St., NW, Washington, DC 20037, (202) 974-4900

HOPA! At Kellari Taverna

C Says --

Thanks to the Occupiers' encampment near my office, I have to say that my Democrat-leaning self was kind of pleased at the irony of J picking somewhere on the infamous K Street. Take that anarchists!

True to form, this establishment fits the K Street sterotypes perfectly. Business suits. Lobbyists. Members of Congress. All that was missing was wood paneling, bourbon, and steak. Good thing I like seafood.

Kellari's take on fish was something I'd never seen before -- make your selection (which is priced per pound) and the little sucker is taken from its icy morgue to the kitchen and prepared to order. I was leaning toward selecting the red snapper because 1) I like red snapper 2) I could pronounce it and 3) I knew what it was. After some goading by J, I decided to be a bit more adventurous and go with the Barbounia (aka red mullet -- good thing I didn't know what Barbounia translated to). I'm glad I did. When the plate arrived it was overflowing with the little suckers. Simply prepared in olive oil with lemon, the fish weren't too fishy and were cooked perfectly. I even tried a fish head -- while not disgusting, I'm fairly sure I won't be craving them in the near future. Fair warning, this is a LOT of food -- so a good place to share a meal or to take an offensive lineman from the Washington Redskins.

While I enjoyed Kellari, there are other seafood restaurants in DC I would put in the front of the line (Black Salt, Hank's Oyster Bar). But if you're looking for a taste of Athens in D.C., Kellari might do if for you.

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J Says --

As January is my birthday month, it was my selection for dinner…on C’s dime (THANKS!). So I went back to my semi-roots for inspiration and selected the Greek restaurant Kellari Taverna. Situated downtown on K street, I’ve driven by it countless times and never knew this gem was there. And clearly it’s geared for the business crowd...making our jeans and nice sweaters a tad underdressed. But that was ok as they sat us in the corner.

As Kellari is known for its fresh fish, I was determined to try some. I had also heard great reviews of the octopus, but C was not game to try it. Thus, we started with the Keftedes, or traditional meatballs with Greek yogurt and dill. Quite tasty with a certain amount of heat that was unexpected, the meal started off well. As the fish is priced per pound, I went with the Fagri from the Greek Islands…or White Snapper to us laymen. WHOA what a fish…and at 1.5lbs, what a big plate! Lean, full of flavor and definitely filling, it was a perfect selection. C and I shared grilled asparagus and spinach as our sides.

I would certainly go back to Kellari…at 8pm, it was quite easy to get in AND we spied a Texas Congressman dining with a NY Times reporter. And yes, next time I’d wear slacks rather than jeans…but I’d still want that corner booth!


Kellari Taverna, 1700 K Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, (202) 535-5274, http://kellaridc.com/