Description

The dramatic dining room here once served as a presidential reception room hall, and now its 30-foot-high ceilings, white marble floors, and towering Ionic columns make it a fitting place for lobbyists, senators, and other well-paid Washingtonians to discuss serious business. On weekends, the ambience lightens up while romantic couples and Southern food-loving families dine here. The restaurant features live jazz on Friday and Saturday evenings and at Sunday brunch. This is one of the few upscale restaurants on Capitol Hill, and the only one in Union Station.The restaurant's Southern/Cajun/Creole menu seldom changes, but a recent visit at lunchtime was a little disappointing: my pork barbecue sandwich was way too sweet and the Louisiana she-crab chowder was more thickened milk than crab. I wish I'd ordered one of the more reliable items: jambalaya or red beans and rice studded with andouille sausage and tasso (spicy smoked pork). At dinner, you can usually count on Southern fried chicken with buttermilk mashed potatoes and "Swamp Thing" (seafood served over greens with a mustard sauce). A basket of mini-biscuits, corn and citrus poppy-seed muffins, and sourdough rolls accompanies all dishes. For dessert, try either pecan sweet-potato pie or coconut cake. The wine list features many by-the-glass selections. Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.