Anonymous wrote:Umm, I'm the OP who recommended DGS. Absolutely did not recommend OVER Little Serow, just in addition to. As in throwing out different ideas for the OP. Little Serow is fantastic but there are all sorts of reasons it might not fit the bill for her evening.

No, someone else did.

Ted's is RIDICULOUSLY loud. just a heads up. We go regularly, usually sit at the bar, and we can't even hear one another that close together.

I would try Ted's. It's great because out of towners will appreciate the Washington-y-ness about it.


Rasika is great but I wouldn't do indian food before going out and I'm indian. Westend bistro is great but I haven't been there in ages.

Vidalia is stuffy in my opinion. I've heard Mari vanna is filled with bitchy Russians and ok food. Urbana is ok, kinda blah but it works.

Maybe try Bistrot du coin? Definitely stay away from Nora... So stale and uppity. Firefly is ok also.

I vote Ted's.

Firefly and Urbana are both great

Love Little Serow---but it only works if people really, really like super spicy food. It is HOT.

Umm, I'm the OP who recommended DGS. Absolutely did not recommend OVER Little Serow, just in addition to. As in throwing out different ideas for the OP. Little Serow is fantastic but there are all sorts of reasons it might not fit the bill for her evening.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:DGS Deli is right there and just got rave reviews in the Post's new fall dining guide.

DGS Deli is the best recommendation so far. Not much in dupont these days, sadly. If you're looking for something more casual, pizzeria paradiso is good too. Or Mari Vanna has a nice atmosphere.

You're recommending DGS Deli over Little Serow?

Alrighty then.

Yes, because why would you ask your friends to wait outside in the cold for an hour? It's not always about the best cooking, though the food at DGS is fine.

OP asked for great food and atmosphere. There's no universe in which DGS and its "fine" food (though I think that's a bit of a stretch) top Little Serow. As for the wait, OP, someone (not the whole group) should get in line at about 4:45-5 on Saturday - that should put your in line for a table any time from 7-9 (can't be more precise). Give them your cell number, walk somewhere nearby to have a drink and hang out, and when they call, enjoy.

I'm sure the OP will decide for him/herself, but having to get in line before 5pm and stick around wouldn't meet my criteria of a nice dinner with visiting friends. Local friends, maybe.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:DGS Deli is right there and just got rave reviews in the Post's new fall dining guide.

DGS Deli is the best recommendation so far. Not much in dupont these days, sadly. If you're looking for something more casual, pizzeria paradiso is good too. Or Mari Vanna has a nice atmosphere.

You're recommending DGS Deli over Little Serow?

Alrighty then.

Yes, because why would you ask your friends to wait outside in the cold for an hour? It's not always about the best cooking, though the food at DGS is fine.

OP asked for great food and atmosphere. There's no universe in which DGS and its "fine" food (though I think that's a bit of a stretch) top Little Serow. As for the wait, OP, someone (not the whole group) should get in line at about 4:45-5 on Saturday - that should put your in line for a table any time from 7-9 (can't be more precise). Give them your cell number, walk somewhere nearby to have a drink and hang out, and when they call, enjoy.

Anonymous wrote:Nora

Only if they're coming to DC in this:

Anonymous wrote:I know I'm going to get flamed here, but we ate at Komi a few months ago. Given all the hype, I was very disappointed. Wouldn't waste my money there again.

Not sure OP is looking to spend $200pp anyway. But for the record, our meal there a little over a year ago was great. Wonder if they've gone downhill since.

I know I'm going to get flamed here, but we ate at Komi a few months ago. Given all the hype, I was very disappointed. Wouldn't waste my money there again.

Many good suggestions and I think, in general, the Dupont scene is a bit sleepy. I would definitely steer clear of Nora which is at least 10 years past its prime; Sette Osteria is fine but certainly not great, Vidalia can be great if a little tired, Oblesik way overrated, Firefly fun and good, have not been to Murayo and as for Little Serow, if your group does not want to head to 14th Street I can't imagine they would want to wait outside in a long line. Tabard Inn has been going through a nasty spat with its staff, and if you care about those things, I would steer clear though it is a lovely setting with good food. One other possibility, though it has been awhile since I have been there, Urbana on P Street has always been excellent.

Hanks can be pretty good if you order right.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:DGS Deli is right there and just got rave reviews in the Post's new fall dining guide.

DGS Deli is the best recommendation so far. Not much in dupont these days, sadly. If you're looking for something more casual, pizzeria paradiso is good too. Or Mari Vanna has a nice atmosphere.

You're recommending DGS Deli over Little Serow?

Alrighty then.

Yes, because why would you ask your friends to wait outside in the cold for an hour? It's not always about the best cooking, though the food at DGS is fine.

Little Serrow - you won't mind standing in line if you're catching up and it's an experience they can't get outside DC. Hope you like spicy food!