Inside RAMW’s Winter Restaurant Week 2019

In light of the recent government shutdown, we could all use the hit of bliss that comes from sitting back after a glorious meal. Good thing winter is coming – Winter Restaurant Week, that is. The Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) is the driving force behind this foodie-focused week from January 14-20, with hearty, three-course meal options offered for reasonable prices at some of the area’s best restaurants. All 250-plus participants are offering lunch or brunch for $22 and dinner for $35.

If a restaurant has been perched atop your “someday” list because of the cost, now’s the time to cross it off. Rasika, Dirty Habit, Bresca, Nobu and Centrolina are among the noteworthy spots with can’t-miss deals. We got a sneak peek of some tasty dishes that will be served by this year’s participating restaurants, and after much judicious eating in the name of research, we’ve narrowed down a few of the best hits from the tour.

Feel like tearing into a pizza with friends and family?

Stroll through Capitol Riverfront to All-Purpose Pizzeria where broccoli and cheddar arancini – decorated with freshly grated pecorino and nestled on a swoosh of feta ranch – awaits like an old friend who got a stellar makeover. Be prepared to make some difficult choices, though. The pizzas will have you reaching into the depths of your soul to figure out which one is best for you. Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with any of them. Our personal favorites include the Buona (a next-level take on the beloved pepperoni pizza with a drizzle of Calabrian chili honey) and the Sedgewick (whipped ricotta, mozzarella, taleggio, parmesan, truffle honey and chives). One bite and you’ll forever be topping all your pizzas with honey. 79 Potomac Ave. SE, DC; www.allpurposedc.com

Wishing you could take a trip but just can’t make it work right now?

You and me both. Another Capitol Riverfront gem, Due South, will make you feel like you’re dining in NOLA. The gruyère and chive grit fries with creole tomato dipping sauce are particularly addictive – don’t say I didn’t warn you. 301 Water St. SE, DC; www.duesouthdc.com

Feeling dark and mysterious?

Put on your best film noir-inspired outfit and cozy up to the stunning atrium bar at Dirty Habit. The Penn Quarter spot’s stellar cocktail list includes gems like Rice and Roses (el jimador tequila or vida mezcal, chamomile-honey, lime, CO2) and a Restaurant Week dinner menu featuring not three but four courses including a must-have mushroom soup and grilled salmon. More of a brunch person? Dirty Habit is releasing their first-ever brunch menu in honor of Restaurant Week. While the three-course for $22 deal ends on January 20, Dirty Habit’s brunch will remain available seven days a week. We highly recommend the vegetarian burger, which is a big deal since those are hard to get right let alone rave about. 555 8th St. NW, DC; www.dirtyhabitdc.com

Learn more about all of RAMW’s Winter Restaurant Week 2019 here, and enjoy deals around the city from Monday, January 14 to Sunday, January 20.

Sabrina Medora