Best Fun Restaurants in Brightwood

Filomena celebrates every holiday with exuberance! Christmas did not disappoint. The decorations are over the top as they do with every holiday!!! I have been here three times now, experienced three holiday themes and my third meal. Today I had the Agnolotti Alla Carbonara and added chicken and for dessert Filomena Cannoli. Sooooo delicious! I have never been disappointed by the food, service or portion sizes when I visit. Today was no different! Chef’s Kiss 😘

A great dining experience combines excellent food, impeccable service, and a pleasant atmosphere. Here are key elements that contribute to an exceptional dining experience: 1.Ambiance: A well-designed setting with comfortable seating, suitable lighting, and pleasant background music creates a welcoming atmosphere. 2.Attentive Service: Friendly and knowledgeable staff who anticipate needs without being intrusive make guests feel valued and cared for. 3.Quality Food: Fresh, flavorful dishes prepared with attention to detail and beautifully presented leave a lasting impression. 4.Personalization: Customizing recommendations or adapting dishes to dietary preferences enhances the experience. 5.Pacing: A smoothly paced meal, with just the right time between courses, ensures a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

We went to Jont two years ago and it was spectacular then and I wasn’t sure how they could improve. However, this visit was off the charts and I’m not sure why they don’t have three Michelin stars yet. We have been to 30 Michelin stars worth of restaurants globally so we have a pretty good perspective. Chef Ryan was in the kitchen (which you essentially sit at a bar adjacent to) the whole time and he came over and spent some time with us which was very cool. The staff is funny, friendly and well informed. I got the special Waygu Zabuton in lieu of chicken and it was probably the best steaks I’ve ever had. Sometimes these type restaurants get a little too eclectic with one or two dishes, and that wasn’t the case here. Every dish wowed our family. In fact, my wife ate Uni for the first time (having passed on it before) and loved it. We feel fortunate to have this spot in DC and can’t wait to go back.

Christmas Eve dinner at OEG is a 24-year tradition for my daughter and me. As always, the food was awesome. My daughter and I were quite surprised and disappointed by the lackluster greeting and overall experience when we walked in. The word "dismissive" comes to mind. Because our previous experiences were fabulous, I will look at this visit as a "one-off" one. Merry Christmas and a Happy 2025!!!

Amazing experience. Food and service were on another level. After each delicate course, I was left wanting more which is ingenious because now I have to come back again. Darn. Thank you SHIA.