The Washington Post just featured Clarendon Best Bets, putting Lyon Hall, Screwtop, and Artisan Artisan Confections at the top of the list.
My thoughts:
1) I can’t believe Ray’s the Steaks is dead-last. I grew up in Texas where we ate steak like we drank water. Ray’s is the best steak I’ve ever had. There, I said it. It’s not even just the steak that should propel Ray’s to the top. It’s the FREE sides of creamed spinach and mashed potatoes. The Post mentions the snarky attitude that some guests have experienced at Ray’s. I’ll admit - at the original location (which is where Ray’s Hell Burger Too is currently housed), there was a time when we were asked to finish our bottle of wine on the patio so that they could give our table to another patron. (for the record - we weren’t even upset about it, because we love Ray’s THAT much). However, since moving into the new location on Clarendon Blvd., the service is much more professional, more laid-back, and Michael Landrum has consistently been much warmer, and more welcoming.
2) So glad Current Boutique got some WaPo lovin. If you haven’t been, Current Boutique is a women’s consignment shop located at the corner of Wilson Blvd. and N. Cleveland St. The “previously-loved” collection of clothing and shoes is trendy, in great condition, and CHEAP. I try to stop in at least once per week to browse for new items. There are some steals in there.
3) I think Eleventh Street Lounge should have made the list. I swear, I’m not being paid or pressured to give shouts out to Eleventh the way I do on this blog - I just think it’s worth all the mentions. Read why here.
4) IOTA Club & Cafe is listed for the music scene, but nothing is mentioned about the food (hence the “Cafe” portion of their name). I’ll be honest - I haven’t actually eaten there yet (it’s next on my list for dinner-night-out in Clarendon), but take a look at the dinner menu on their website. Looks fabulous. Crab and Brie Quesadillas… Fried Chicken served with Gratin Potatoes and Collared Greens… Crispy Catfish Wrap. Yum, yum, yum. (or should I say Nom, Nom, Nom, which seems to be the current favorite social media phrase.) WaPo should have at least mentioned the Cafe in addition to the Club.
