Story By: Erin Zollars
Photos By: Sol Tucker
Washington, D.C–
We must admit that anything associated with the Capital Grille is most likely going to be amazing from the food all the way down to the service. If you are looking for that same vibe and just want a burger and drink for lunch or dinner, I think we have found your spot.
The first dedicated burger restaurant to spring from the Darden family of eateries which also includes, Olive Garden, Seasons 52 and Yard House opened at 1005 Seventh Street NW on March 19th, with 150 seats, a full bar, and daily happy hour.
The vibe from the inside reminds us of a ski up bar or lodge in Aspen with rich wood textures all over and rustic wrought iron lining the bar with yellow illumination creating a very warm and welcoming setting.
Guests can expect a free mason jar of house-made pickles to kick off their meal, don’t be afraid to ask for more, they are that good when it comes to fresh out of the garden taste. Also, very good for a vodka shot if you must indulge in the craze.
What will have food connoisseurs heading for this new gem across from the D.C Convention Center are their range of burger options which are a solid 8oz of proprietary beef blend from Pat La Frieda Meat Purveyors all served on a toasted Brioche Bun.
Their must order burgers are The Capital Burger, which tastes like a cup of Capital Grille French Onion Soup with filet topped with their signature Caramelized Onions and Wisconsin Grand Cru Gruyere Cheese for a mouthwatering flavor pop. Great value a $16
Another burger not to miss is the Roasted Wild Mushroom and Swiss Burger. The roasted Portabella Mushrooms with Jarlsburg and 15 year aged Balsamic again bring pieces of the Grille menu to your burger. Amazing choice for $17
Assorted poultry and seafood offerings round out the menu; expect a Southern-style fried chicken sandwich with spicy honey, calamari, Maine lobster rolls, and tuna tartare. There is even a pretty solid choice for kids in their Hot Dog with house made relish for $10
One thing that is not to be missed are their Spiked Milkshakes. Their classic Stoli Doli is available as a cocktail or a Spiked Option with Vanilla Ice Cream and Candied Pineapple. Best shake in a long time right here!
Lastly, you can finish your meal right where you started with a Mason Jar. No it is not pickles in a dessert form, its cheesecakes in the jar that are amazing and packed with three flavors, chocolate, salted caramel and strawberry. Hey they are $5, try them all at that price.
All in all, this is a great start for Darden and their concept in city that already loves Burgers, why not make it like one of the best steakhouses and give it a chill vibe at the same time, well they just did that, now go check them out while there are still seats available.
The Capital Burger
1005 7th Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
(202) 638-0414
https://www.thecapitalburger.com/locations/dc/washington/washington-dc/3200