Local 16

Local 16 Restaurant Review:

Edgy U Street eateries should step aside to make room for this noisy place, oriented to a twentysomething crowd that parties on and on. Newcomers may wonder what's going on upstairs; regulars know to request seating in the quietly funky, candlelit dining areas or the jazzy rooftop space in warm weather. Dark and baroque, the downstairs is all about the bar scene, and patrons there may barely hear their own conversations. For those who come to eat, not just greet or meet, the food may surprise, as it has moved from a basic American menu to an Afghani display of meats, breads, vegetables and kebabs, though some classic burgers and wood-fired pizzas are available. Even the brunch menu balances waffles and eggs with chorizo with some Afghani fare.