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Rasika

Critic darling Rasika lived up to all expectations for a truly excellent night of dining.  Attending for a family celebration our party was given a round table in the front, looking out onto the street.  It had the feel of a semi-private area and allowed for conversation (the restaurant itself was fairly loud with conversation but no piped-in music, thank goodness).  Comfortable chairs and a crystal chandelier over our heads completed the sense of elegance.  Despite the crowds and wait time for walk-ins we weren't rushed at all by the wait staff.  The food was moan-worthy, in that each member of the party took a bite and elicited a "sound" of pleasure.  The menu included a wide range of veggie options and has roots in traditional Indian fare but ascends far beyond with ingredients like quinoa, avocado and truffle oil included in dishes.  The homemade chutneys and combination papadum were yummy enough to have the most reserved eater of the bunch filling up before the main dishes arrived.  I had the Sweet Potato Quinoa Tikki as an appetizer and the Malai Palak as a main dish.  Seasonings were subtle and complex.  This was definitely a meal where you wanted to eat slowly and savor each bite as the first one might differ from the second or third one.  Portion sizes were also considerable which is not typical for a high-end restaurant.  All of us took some of the meal home to enjoy later.  I was quite full but managed to polish off some of the cardamom ice cream, which was incredibly rich and seemingly made on site.  My only complaint was a busboy awash in cologne.  Aside from that almost forgettable issue I would select this restaurant for a really good meal any time.

Chef-inspired upscale Indian
633 D Street, NW and 1190 New Hampshire Ave, NW
https://www.rasikarestaurant.com/

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