2019 Summer Restaurant Week Recap

HAzel

Shaw| Washington, DC

Restaurant Week Brunch: 3 Courses for $25

Cuisine: New American (Turkish/ Mediterranean influence)

Atmosphere: Comfy Chic

My Rating: * * * * * * (6 out of 8 stars)

Hazel has been on my list of places to try since last Restaurant Week. I’d always pass by and see glimpses of their super cute patio area. I finally got a chance to not only try it out, but browse their patio and snap some photos in front of their Instagram worthy floral mural. I can’t stress enough how much I love restaurants that have perfected the casual, yet upscale look and feel- minus the stuffy, pretentiousness. Hazel has found that sweet spot with tasty plates to go along with it. The Restaurant Week menu offered a choice of 2 dishes from a short, but varied menu of traditional brunch dishes with Turkish/ Mediterranean flare. Each dish was super tasty with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean you may be familiar with (if you’re not, you’ll leave with a distinct memory). With a menu meant for you to order more than one dish and share, it’s a perfect option for group outings or even an exploration of the menu for two. I can’t wait to try out their Dinner menu! If Mediterranean cuisine is one of your faves (like me), Hazel is a perfect stop while in the Shaw neighborhood.

Gravitas

Ivy City| Washington, DC

Cuisine: New American

Atmosphere: Industrial Chic

My Rating: * * * * * * * (7 out of 8 stars)

Ivy City’s Gravitas is the perfect stop for any Restaurant Week promotion. If a 5 course Tasting Menu starting at $90 with the option to add on a curated wine selection (for an additional cost- of course) is not your usual dinner move, then you have every reason to make this your next Restaurant Week destination. While its former tomato canning factory setting gives minimalist vibes, you can expect service to the max. Luckily, I was joined by my two besties who chose the 5- course Menu option. Need I mention that I tasted every dish they had!? At least two of their dishes were accompanied by a base that was poured on by the waitress. Truffles were shaved in front of us onto a plate of Risotto. I told you- service to the MAX! I wish I could give you specific recommendations for what to get if you visit. Their seasonal menu is already different from our visit. Whether you wait until the next Restaurant Week, or are in the mood for a “because Monday” fine dining experience, don’t hesitate to give Gravitas a try (be sure to make a reservation, though).