Swankalicious

I just went to Meskerem with a large group a few weeks ago and had a terrific time. It's Adams Morgan's best Ethiopian restaurant (in my humble opinion!).

The food in Oldtown isn't really on par with the scenery--it's tough to find decent places in that area. I've heard people speak highly of Geranio, but I've never been there myself. There's also Elysium, which is upscale and more of a "special occasion" restaurant. Tom Sietsema likes Majestic Cafe, though I'm not sure why--I've never had a good experience there; the portions are very small and the seating is cramped. My favorite restaurant in Oldtown is Ecco Cafe--a casual Italian restaurant with an extensive menu. It's not particularly innovative cooking, but very reliable and a fun place to go with a group. As for a do-not-miss restaurant in DC, I'd have to say Zaytinya: architecturally stunning, delicious food, and very well-priced considering the quality.

I have two suggestions--- in Alexandria, try Ecco Cafe in Oldtown. It's sort of slipped lately, but it's still quite tasty and reasonably priced, one of the few decent places in the area. I also like Luigi's on 19th Street. The food isn't particularly groundbreaking, but it's a cozy neighborhood spot with all the traditional red-sauce fare for good prices. It's also been around a long, long time. Otello's in DuPont is another good bet, though the service is INSANELY slow!!

Agreed...the area sucks...the crumbling Hogate's, the mysterious Zanzibar...but it's worth the trek. The wine in plastic cups is part of the ambience, such as it is. I didn't mind it. The food more than made up for the ultra-casual atmosphere!!

I finally went a week or so ago. It was an odd, eclectic crowd--think Gilligan's Island or some such sitcom--but the food was really, really tasty. Try the fish tacos or the BBQ shrimp.

Try Marie's for hamburgers, in downtown Kennebunkport. There's also a newish Italian restaurant in Kennebunk which is great, I forget the name. And Flo's hot dogs!!!!

I want to go in a few weeks but am somewhat afraid to make a reservation, or to try.

Has anyone here met Tom Sietsema? His identity seems so shrouded in mystery...rightfully so, I assume. Is he as affable and genuine as he seems on his chats?