Central Michel Richard
1001 Pennsylvania Ave. NW (11th St. NW) 
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Washington, DC 20004
202-626-0015 | Make Restaurant Reservations
 Michel Richard's casual American bistro attracts a constant state of hustle and bustle to its lively dining room. Low-key inside and out, this Penn Quarter setting with dishes executed by chef Cedric Maupillier exemplifies why Richard continuously pleases. Of course, a handful of French-inspired dishes take their place on the menu: gougères (cheese puffs), "faux gras terrine," and Michel's charcuterie plateaux, all rather tongue in cheek. But what about a goat cheese Caesar salad, Richard's interpretation of this overwrought classic that thrills: made from carefully coiled two-inch-wide sections of romaine lettuce wrapped around and around in a pinwheel design and drenched with a creamy goat cheese dressing---this may be the most unlikely and applause-worthy Caesar in town. There are plenty of entrée choices, including fried chicken with mashed potatoes, skate with caper sauce, and sautéed calf's liver with bacon. We are always a sucker for a good burger, and here Richard offers four versions: beef, lobster, sushi-grade tuna and shrimp, accompanied by hot, crispy fries or a salad. Sweets range from an ultra-rich "Kit Kat" bar to a slick and sassy crème brûlée. You may be tempted by the selection of beers and cocktails, including a few featuring absinthe, but don't overlook the wine list. With about 100 different selections from small French and American producers, and a smattering of options from Australia, Italy and Spain, the list will please even the most dedicated oenophile. |
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