For delicious dining before or after the theater in D.C., Chef Geoff's has something for everybody. The menu had enough unusual items that I had to ask our charming waiter, Vaughn, to explain some terms: gravlax, gallette, beeche, and sopressata. I was also stumped by some of the wines: Varaldo, “Sori Loreto”, Barbaresco and the Ronchi di Manzano, Tocai Friulano, Friuli. However, I love learning about new delectables, so I was pleased.
Although the atmosphere was upscale bistro, Chef Geoff's was quite accommodating to their youngest diners. The tables were lined with white paper and crayons were offered. A children's menu offered a respite for picky eaters on their way from the Nutcracker at the Warner Theater across 13th Street. Puzzles and jokes helped our party ease through the reasonable wait for our food.
The crusty rolls with the light yeasty centers were an omen of good things to come. For the indecisive, the soup sampler features the spicy black bean soup, the split pea, and the butternut squash. The maple vinaigrette was a nectarous topping for the blue cheese and endive salad. The crab gallette was so tasty that I barely got to eat any with my voracious party. If you like smoky hickory flavor, the monkfish was a savory meal. The mushroom fettuccine was rich and hearty.
Although the desserts sounded heavenly, we finished with the chocolate cherry martini. I'll have to go back for dessert another day. I will request Vaughn's station. Good food is even more enjoyable with friendly, informative service.
