While, my personal gold standard for dining in the DC area is still Maestro, Restaurant Eve does not disappoint for those looking to be pampered and introduced to something new. Having the opportunity to dine with 2 other couples we had the chance to have even more tasting options in the Tasting Room (not to be confused with the Bistro side of the house). Nine or Five courses are the options and not everyone at the table must get the same number of courses, which is nice since at most places if one person is getting the tasting menu then all people must get the same tasting menu. The nine course meal is all selected by the Chef and the 5 course meal has different options for each course which the patron can choose. I'm a little amazed at how the waiter can remember all the different options being served as the ladies went for the 5 course options with mostly different choices between them. Each time he was able to explain each of different dishes as if he prepared them himself. Beyond the set courses, there are some nice extras like canapés even before the menu is presented. After ordering everyone was treated to a soup course and before dessert a palette cleansing shaved ice was served. Basically, all the savory courses were a hit... ranging from the Foie Gras mousse (extra cost) to the sweetbread (lamb's thymus gland -- who knew?) to the scallops to the "Bacon, Egg & Cheese" and others I can't remember. The cheese course was interesting and probably not for those who don't enjoy a stinky cheese, and while the desserts were inventive, they didn't necessarily satisfy. Regardless, service was impeccable. Just be sure to block out a good chunk of time -- we got there at 8:15 p.m. and didn't leave until about 12:30 a.m. It was quite a marathon and we were all exhausted at the end.
more