So, separating "the best" from "my favorite" is impossible, because on all metrics, there is subjecting ranking of and within the metric. Cuisines I don't really love would never appear on my "best" list and that would eliminate some nice restaurants (eg, Rasika).

To me, "best" is some maximization of value - the metric gets really hard for the stratospherically expensive place because if the food is only 10% better, but the price is twice as much, then we've gone negative on the 2nd derivative of the 'value' function. This probably favors the unpretentious like Ben's Chili Bowl.

I do miss Citronelle; Vidalia is pretty good but not knock-your-socks off for what it costs. I'd say Montmatre is a little gem - more casual atmosphere, but I've only ever had exceptional service and the food has always been top-notch.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:DH took me to Proof for my birthday a few months ago. It was a fine enough experience but not worth the price at all. For those of you who mentioned it, what do you like about it?

I didn't find Proof expensive. I find it warm and inviting, the service is good - but we eat there often. Good comfort food with charcuterie, cheese and wine. Simple and easy. Best? Maybe not - but always a great meal.

+1

Toki

For a special occasion, I agree with Komi, but my beloved everyday go-tos include 2 Amys (for the small plates more than the pizza) and Estadio. Both are consistently delicious and feature some of DC's most straight forward, yet wonderful food.

I'm sorry, but I don't think vegetarians can judge what is the best restaurant. They are not able to appreciate the chef's full range of skill. Plus in many cases the are ordering off menu.

Anonymous wrote:Ten Penh is great. Also, the Zebra Room in Tenley.

Don't forget all of Roberto Donna's excellent restaurants!

Ten Penh is great. Also, the Zebra Room in Tenley.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Coco Sala, El Jaleo and Rasika (in alphabetical order because I love them all but at different times)

Do you live on that block?

Not that poster, but I just thought the same thing.

Anonymous wrote:DH took me to Proof for my birthday a few months ago. It was a fine enough experience but not worth the price at all. For those of you who mentioned it, what do you like about it?

I didn't find Proof expensive. I find it warm and inviting, the service is good - but we eat there often. Good comfort food with charcuterie, cheese and wine. Simple and easy. Best? Maybe not - but always a great meal.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Zola, hands down.

I guess you were in the minority, as it shut down quite some time ago.

+1

Anonymous wrote:My favorites are Fiola and Rasika. Also like The Source, Tosca, and Kaz Sushi Bistro, though I wouldn't say any of them are the best in DC.

I also enjoyed Citronelle and TenPenh.

Can we stop talking about places that are closed?

Doi Moi in particular is an extreme letdown, they went for pure douche magnet to the expense of good food.

You, I like. Spot on!

Zola, hands down.

Zaytinya

Seriously?

Anonymous wrote:Coco Sala, El Jaleo and Rasika (in alphabetical order because I love them all but at different times)

Do you live on that block?

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Zola, hands down.

I guess you were in the minority, as it shut down quite some time ago.

NOPA, which replaced it, is quite good. I wouldn't put it in the "best" category, but it's still worth a try for a great meal.

Anonymous wrote:Inn at Little Washington

I find the Inn to be extremely overrated. While there certainly is something special about the ambiance, the food just isn't top-level.