Lincoln….. A Great Choice in Washington DC

This is a another long overdue post (you’ll see a theme here!), as I first visited Lincoln during restaurant week last  fall and have been a few times since.  On each visit I’ve been impressed with the menu, which is unique and changes seasonally, as well as with the exceptional service.   My first visit was on a very crowded weekday evening and I sat at a table in the bar; I was by myself.   The waiter was perfect – not too pushy and didn’t make me feel like I needed to rush to finish my meal.  His recommendations were spot and he even came by to chat occasionally; I suspect he was curious about the notes and photos I was taking!

The selection of wines by the glass is a bit limited, however the options they do have are excellent.  One of my favorites was the Beuhler, California Chardonnay.  There is an extensive choice of spirits and some very unique cocktail options, including infusions such as Bacon Bourbon and Serrano gin.

Back to the menu, which is one of the most interesting I’ve seen in a while.  Most ingredients are locally sourced and it includes unique combinations of ingredients.  This is definitely a good place to venture out of your comfort zone;  everything is small plates or tasting portions which provides the perfect opportunity to try several different things.  I found it very hard to decide on only a few things, which is why I’ve gone back on nearly every trip to DC.  Also, since the menu changes each eason I’m always excited to see what is new.  When they are on the menu, I would say the  seasonal mason jars are a must try.  I also loved the Maryland crab tots with Old Bay aioli. One the menu now is a Chef’s Seasonal Tasting; a great option if you want to have someone else decide for you!

For dessert it was Corn Donughts with sweet summer panna cotta and chilled blueberry compote.  YUM!!

This is a very hip space and you must be sure to check out the floor, which is made from pennies.  I’ve read some complaints that it is noisy, which is true, however it is a great bar scene and the noise is worth it when you consider the excellent food!

 

http://lincolnrestaurant-dc.com

 

 

 

Amber Turkey Chili

My favorite chili recipe includes ground beef and spicy turkey sausage, however I have a few friends that don’t eat red meat, so I created this option for them.

1 tbsp olive oil

1 C. chopped onion

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 lb ground turkey breast

1/2 lb ground turkey thigh

2 tbsp chili powder

2 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp ground chipotle

1 tsp dried cilantro

12oz amber ale

28oz can crushed tomatoes

15oz can black beans, drained and rinsed

juice and zest from half a lime

For topping:  greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, cracked pepper and wildflower honey

In a large dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.  Add onion, sauté for 3-4 minutes.  Add garlic, sauté for 1 minute.  Add turkey, brown until crumbled and cooked through.  Add chili powder, stir to combine.  Add remaining spices, stir and cook 30 seconds.  Add amber ale and bring to a boil.  Add tomato and black beans, and return to a boil.  Reduce heat to medium-low, simmer for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Remove from heat and stir in lime juice and zest.

Top with greek yogurt, shredded cheddar, cracked pepper and wild flower honey.  Add mini corn muffins for a twist.

 

Farallon – Coastal Cuisine in San Francisco

Earlier this year, on a trip to San Francisco for work I had the pleasure of dining at Farallon with my family; I grew up in the Bay Area so San Francisco is a frequent meeting spot for us.  If you are a fan of seafood, this is a place that will never disappoint.  The menu is varied and changes seasonally.  The interior of the restaurant has a very whimsical design; an underwater motif with unique glass sea creatures hanging from the hand-painted mosaic ceiling.

You can expect outstanding service from a top-notch waitstaff who will be happy to assist if you need help navigating the menu; all recommendations were spot-on.  As you may have noticed, I’m a fan of sharing food and small plates, as this means I can try more things!  My sister and I decided to create our own tasting menu, which turned out to be fantastic.

We started with Dungeness crab,which is one of my favorites.   This  version is served with lemon aioli and drawn butter, which make perfect compliments.  We then moved on to the heirloom tomato salad and the mushroom risotto.  We finished with the Diver Scallops, which were seared to perfection.

The wine list is extensive, with something for any taste either by the bottle or the glass.

This is truly fine dining and should not be missed if you are in San Francisco!

 

http://www.farallonrestaurant.com