Pho 75 (Arlington, VA)

We're currently on an Anthony Bourdain kick, which means we're currently inundated with his praises of Pho. While I've had Pho elsewhere, the broth at Pho 75 is truly savory, and the meat is delightfully tender. When I ordered mine with top sirloin and fatty brisket, our server sought to confirm that I understood that fatty brisket was, quite literally, 85% fat. I did, and it was good.

Bayou (Washington, DC)

Went here with a group of 12 for birthday drinks -- and everyone ended up ordering food. The Po Boys were outstanding, albeit a bit pricey. The food on the whole, however, was rich and delicious. Definitely worth a return trip when a hankering for the Big Easy arises...

Komi (Washington, DC)

We went to Komi for a birthday celebration dinner and came away impressed. It's no surprise that Washingtonian has rated it the best restaurant in DC for the past three years. The meal included the following dishes:

• Smoked Trout Caviar Brioche;
• Duo of Crudo (Kingfish and Scottish Salmon);
• Scallops Two Ways;
• Fried Artichoke with Garlic Puree;
• Egg Raviolo;
• "Spanikopita" (liquid on the inside);
• Half Smoke on Brioche with Tomato Chutney;
• Foie Gras with Fava Puree;
• Tagliatelli with Salt Cod and Caperberries;
• Roast Suckling Pig;
• Meyer Lemon Tartlette;
• Rhubarb Ginger Sorbet; and
  
• Greek Donut with Cream and Blueberries.

We'll be going back. I hope sooner rather than later.