Best Casual Restaurants in Van Ness

Heading to a concert at the Kennedy Center (it's a very easy approach to Foggy Bottom), we tried Claudio's Table out for the first time. We ate early and got to watch the restaurant fill up with a broad range of families and couples from the neighborhood and elsewhere, bringing a real nice ambience. The food was fabulous: fried artichoke with a green salad started things off beautifully, like being in Rome. The linguini with lobster tail, on a light red lobster infused sauce (a special) is among the best dishes in Washington (et Voila's Norwegian sole is another). Our other dish was the linguini with clams. My wife and I shifted our platters back and forth, with help from staff when they saw us treeing to balance the dishes. Wine was lovely and the lemon cake dessert was a brilliant combination of layers. The portions were also perfect (not too big, nor too little) and we stayed awake through our concert.

Our brunch experience was delightful and Troy made it extra special. He was attentive, cheerful and very thoughtful during our dining experience. The food was delicious and such a great value. The ambiance was vibrant yet sophisticated. Will definitely be back.

Andrea, Ernesto and the blond woman (I didn’t catch her name but she’s awesome). You have an incredible staff with a lot of passion. They clearly appreciate both the food and drinks. Thank god! One of the first restaurants in dc we’ve truly felt at home! We will be back. With friends. Thank you.

Great Food! Exceptional staff! Our server Erica was just outstanding!

The burger was top notch. Delicious toasted brioche bun, beefy, juicy 1/2 lb. patty, just like I like it. I got it with tomato, mushrooms, Swiss and smoked applewood bacon, and it was an amazing combo. Seved with pickles on the side. The sweet potato fries were crispy and hot with a sweet mayo dipping sauce. Everything was perfect!