Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Palisades Northwest

Went for Christmas dinner. Foggy Bottom was one of the two locations that had the a’ la carte menu which was why I picked the location. It was a little crowded waiting for our reservation time and they were behind but we expected that and didn’t mind. There were three of us and we all were happy with our meals. We had wings and the corn bread skillet for appetizers. The wings were really good. I’m not a fan of corn in my cornbread but it still tasted good. I had fried shrimp with fries, coleslaw and corn bread. The shrimp and fries were really good. The coleslaw was a little blah. Our other two diners had a platter with ribs, cheeseburger sliders and fried chicken and coleslaw. They both loved theirs but also were not fans of the coleslaw. The staff was friendly and professional and fast. We enjoyed talking to them and the two different sets of patrons sitting beside us. We had a great Christmas dinner despite it not being an “traditional” Christmas dinner and would come back again.

Christmas Eve dinner at OEG is a 24-year tradition for my daughter and me. As always, the food was awesome. My daughter and I were quite surprised and disappointed by the lackluster greeting and overall experience when we walked in. The word "dismissive" comes to mind. Because our previous experiences were fabulous, I will look at this visit as a "one-off" one. Merry Christmas and a Happy 2025!!!

Et Voila continues to be a welcoming restaurant with quality food and wine/bar choices. I appreciate a restaurant with a good chateauneuf-du-pape by the glass! The carbonnade and our other main course selections were excellent, with the fries always outstanding. My mom loved her baked escargots. The floating island and chocolate mousse are our constant go-tos that never disappoint. The interior room was a bit hectic for an early seating but we put that down to it being Christmas Eve.

Great atmosphere and delicious food! Almost canceled our 9:30 pm reservation but so glad we didn’t. The place was packed but the service was efficient. We had both kinds of gnocchi, vegetable frites, Caesar salad and fusilli with three kinds of meat- it was all excellent!

I’ve eaten at Bistro Aracosia many times since it opened, and love bringing friends for their first experience with Afghan-influenced food and tastes. I keep coming even after moving to Takoma Park, and am always glad to return!