Looking for Some of DC's Most Exciting Cooking? Hit the Bar.

"They're places like Providencia, in an alley off H Street, Northeast, where an unexpected fusion of Asian and Latin American flavors might translate to a mezcal-pandan cocktail or a root-vegetable tamale with Japanese curry. They're places like Cana in Adams Morgan, the city's lone Brazilian bar, where you can find grilled chicken hearts and a caipirinha made with real sugarcane alongside vinyl grooves."

"Granted, the line between what constitutes a bar and a restaurant is blurry. After all, what you're drinking has become just as important as what's on the plate. For Cana co-owner Radovan Jankovic, the main distinction is that bars are "defined more by the energy than anything else. It is a bit louder. It's livelier." To that end, bar energy really embodies the current moment. People are looking for vibes and fun from a dinner out."

"Notably, some of DC's top chefs have been embracing the bar scene. Just look at Michael Rafidi of Michelin-starred Albi, who has created a funkier, more casual hangout in Union Market's La' Shukran with arak cocktails and escargot-topped hummus. In September, Lutèce chef Matt Conroy will helm Maison Bar à Vins in Adams Morgan, a three-story natural-wine bar that won't take itself too seriously, with tiger-striped carpet and eel croquettes."

New York restaurant groups are rapidly opening locations in Washington, D.C., producing many spinoffs and sequels of local hits. Meanwhile, bars have emerged as the city's most original, character-rich spots, offering inventive cross-cultural dishes and cocktails. Examples include Providencia's Asian-Latin fusion and Cana, a Brazilian bar serving chicken hearts and real-sugarcane caipirinhas. The distinction between bars and restaurants has blurred as drink quality matches food importance, and bars emphasize energy and liveliness. Notable chefs from Michelin-starred and prominent kitchens are launching casual, wine- and cocktail-focused bar projects. Diners increasingly seek vibe-driven, lively dinner experiences.

Read at Washingtonian - The website that Washington lives by.