Fodor's Expert Review The Dabney

While many of D.C.'s standout restaurants earn their accolades for takes on cuisine from far-flung corners of the globe, at the Dabney, Virginia-born chef Jeremiah Langhorne draws rave reviews for his commitment to Mid-Atlantic cuisine. Larger plates might include whole lacquered quail stuffed with cornbread or a family-style serving of chicken and dumplings, but small plates predominate, and waiters will help you balance out your meal. The farmhouse-inspired venue is bright, open, and inviting, with an open-kitchen concept featuring a wood-burning hearth. The cocktail program also excels, and there are multiple ciders and interesting draft beers to boot. The food and cocktail menu changes regularly and is based seasonally, so expect to be newly delighted every time. You can't go wrong with the wine here, either. Make a reservation, as it isn't easy to just drop by and get a table at this popular spot.