This past Friday night, Michael and I had a chance to finally visit a restaurant we have had at the top of our list for some time now – Table.  We first happened to walk by Table this past winter and had no idea what it was or what it had to offer.  After doing a little bit of research, we realized that Table is a gem tucked away over on a nondescript stretch of N Street NW.

Table has an ever-changing menu that is based on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.  Right when we walked into Table, I was immediately impressed with the simplicity of the restaurant.  There are simple, light wood tones throughout the dining room, which boasts an open kitchen that stretches along one wall.  There are two chef’s tables situated on each end so you can get in on all of the action.  However, there isn’t a bad seat in the house if you’re looking to catch a glimpse of the chef(s) whipping up their creations.

We happened to visit Table during Restaurant Week, which worked out well because normally I wouldn’t have splurged for dessert, but with their Restaurant Week special, dessert was included, and I’m so glad it was!  For appetizers we had the Mussels Toast and Hand Pulled Mozzarella.  Both were outstanding.  The Mussels Toast was so different – something I have never had before.  It was exploding with flavors.  The toast included mussels, curried aioli, pea puree, watercress, and pepperoncino.  The Hand Pulled Mozzarella is pretty self explanatory, but it was so fresh and just melted in my mouth.  It was complimented by rhubarb chutney and puree, summer vegetables, and banyuls vinegar.  For our main course, Michael went with the Hanger Steak, which was cooked to perfection, and I went with the Amish Chicken, which was accompanied by sofrito braised romano beans, house cured pancetta, and smoked tomato puree – it was delicious.  Finally, the desserts.   Oh man.  We sampled the Summer Fruit Tart and the Baked Peach Pocket.  The fruit tart was so fresh and creamy with a perfectly soft but slightly crunchy crust.  The Baked Peach Pocket was like a perfect little piece of peach cobbler stuffed in a pastry pocket of goodness and to top it off, it was served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.  It was the perfect end to a fabulous meal.

If you have the opportunity to visit Table, located in the historic Shaw neighborhood of D.C., I highly recommend you take advantage of experiencing this unique yet simplistic restaurant.  And if my recommendation isn’t enough, the Washingtonian named Table as #29 on its list of 100 Very Best Restaurants this year.  Just go.  You won’t regret it.