Let?s Do LunchMarch 27, 2013

March 28, 2013

For this issue?s lunch, we stayed close to home and went to Caf? Bonaparte, a Georgetown favorite that first opened its doors in 2003. On a chilly Friday afternoon, it was packed and buzzing with people dining. The caf? does not take reservations, so be prepared.

We were impressed by their well-selected wine list and personal service. We tried the full gamut of the menu, including delicious mussels, asparagus risotto, calamari, French onion soup, and, of course, crepes. From the French fries and French onion soup to the last drop of the French press, we loved Caf? Bonaparte.

Finally, we sampled three different desserts, the best of which was–the Napoleon–coinidentally the name of Cafe Bonaparte?s sister restaurant, Napoleon Bistro & Lounge in Adams Morgan. Another restaurant, Malmaison, specializing in music and art, will be opening soon at 3401 K St., NW.

*For more information on Caf? Bonaparte, call (202) 333-8830 or visit NapoleonDC.com. Caf? Bonaparte, 1522 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Washington, D.C. 20007.*

Let?s Do LunchMarch 13, 2013

March 12, 2013

For this issue?s lunch, we visited Range, Bryan Voltaggio?s latest, in the newly renovated Chevy Chase Pavilion. Under the pavilion?s large skylight, the restaurant is lit by a lot of natural light. We were interested in how the restaurant would look at night. The interior is decorated in palatial tans with modern opalescent soft leather seating and includes a sweet shop and a cookware shop. Diners have a full view of the kitchen, and bathrooms don?t disappoint.

As for the food, our favorites were the soup, tagliatelle. Everything we ordered had lots of savory flavors. Our dessert was a fluffy combination of chocolate and caramel corn with caramel ice cream.

The contemporary, casual vibe of the restaurant gels well with the small-plate concept. Diners can choose a few items to share, or stick to a pre-fixe menu. This is no place to be stiff. You?ve got to loosen your tie, share the dish you ordered and try something your table-mate ordered. Music was curated towards modern indie rock, with tracks from Band of Horses, Bloc Party and the Pixies among those we heard during our meal. Accordingly, serving staff are uniformly dressed in Converse Chuck Taylors.

***Range is located at 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Washington, D.C. 20015. Make a reservation at [www.voltrange.com](http://www.voltrange.com)***