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Kaliwa

Tried out another Wharf restaurant last night.  Kaliwa, a mix of Filipino, Korean and Thai fare.  The menu listed only one veggie option so I selected it -- the Bibimbap.  Fortunately for me, the waiter forewarned me that the selection was made with Oyster sauce.  He said they had a green curry, not on menu, which could be made veggie.  I opted for that, despite his warning that it would be very spicy.  It was.  I was able to mix in a lot of rice (one of my companions is trying to cut back on carbs and the other didn't see the point of eating rice in addition to noodles) but it would be too hot for many.  Note to restaurant owner:  When you indicate that a dish is veggie it CANNOT INCLUDE OYSTER SAUCE.

While my group and me waited, we enjoyed the fun, funky atmosphere.  I got a couch seat, which was nice on my back, but given the numerous food stains on the velour, may not last.  We read the "About Us" handout and admired the neat aluminum chopsticks.  Unfortunately the restaurant was very (very very) loud, so conversation was difficult.  Maybe cut the music?

Rice arrived first.  We were cautioned that the food would be served as it was ready.  The idea is to order multiple dishes and share, which was not possible given a number of dietary limits of the party members. 

One of my companions ordered the Shrimp, Chinese Sausage, Noodles and Pork Rinds.  She enjoyed the dish, saying it had unanticipated flavors.  The pork rinds had a certain nostalgia and added a nice crunch, but were perhaps one more ingredient than was needed.

Another guest had the Korean pork belly which he said was quite good but, like all things Wharf, small and expensive.  The $21 bowl served more as an appetizer than main dish.  The Cafe Americano which came at the end of the meal was "okay" but lukewarm.

Bottom line:  Visually appealing with great service the restaurant is not, unfortunately, veggie friendly.  Will not return.

Upscale southeast Asian
751 Wharf Street, SW
https://www.kaliwadc.com/home/

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