Nine great French restaurants in Washington DC

MARCEL’S

2401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, 20037

Rating: The Michelin Plate

What the Michelin inspectors said…

Marcel’s may lure a who’s who crowd to its elegantly understated dining room, but there’s nothing uppity about the amiable and genuine staff, who expertly walk the tightrope between attentive and fussy. Patrons come to linger over French-influenced meals enjoyed over multiple courses.

https://www.facebook.com/MarcelsDC/posts/10151244208959943

Pan-seared foie gras atop duck confit and paired with eau de vie-soaked cherries, or grilled quail over a warm artichoke salad are certainly French inspired. Curried butternut squash soup with apple, black sesame and toasted cashew or enoki mushroom-topped halibut over parsnip purée speak to an entirely different influence. The almond financier with sunflower ice cream might be overdressed with too many flourishes, but with its buttery goodness, nobody is complaining.

We want to try…

Marcel’s boudin blanc, Adirondack blue potato puree, maitakke mushrooms, black garlic mustard (part of the tasting menu, four-six courses $110-$160).

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