It’s a tough time to be in the restaurant business, and lord knows we are all tired of staring blankly into our refrigerators, so let someone else cook for you. This summer’s Restaurant Week is actually a two-week affair (August 17-30) and promises some tasty deals ($22 lunches and brunches; dinners for $35 or $55 per person). Some establishments are offering cocktail and wine pairings. Many have patio seating, and—for diners who aren’t comfortable eating on the premises—the option of getting it all to go. Below are just a few of the dishes you can look forward to sampling. For the full list of participating restaurants and menus visit the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) website. Summer Restaurant Week 2020 is supported by Events DC and JBG Smith.
Open Road Grill
Stop by Open Road’s Rosslyn location for a three-course menu with options like balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts with smoked blue cheese, Peruvian spiced half chicken, fish tacos, burgers and brioche bread pudding. If you prefer to drink your calories, you can swap in a draft beer or wine in place of an appetizer or dessert. //1201 Wilson Blvd., Suite 213, Arlington (Rosslyn)
Sloppy Mama’s Barbeque
Hit up Joe and Mandy Neuman’s Lee Highway ‘cue joint for pulled chicken, pulled pork, brisket and ribs, plus pimento cheese, wings, banana pudding and mud pie. Note: meat choices are subject to availability. The restaurant makes fresh barbecue daily and some popular items tend to sell out. //5731 Lee Highway, Arlington
Trio Grill
Look forward to starters such as soy-glazed pork belly, tuna tartare nachos or heirloom tomato salad with herbed ricotta, followed by braised short ribs, pan-roasted scallops or pappardelle primavera (with optional wine pairings). Dessert choices include key lime pie and dark chocolate torte. // 8100 Lee Highway, Falls Church (Merrifield)
TTT Mexican Diner
Ivan Iricanin’s 3-level Mexican eatery in Clarendon has dispensed with formal dining and consolidated around the TTT (tacos, tortas and tequila) theme. The lunch and dinner specials include a build-your-own taco deal with your choice of protein (pork carnitas, brisket, chicken, shrimp or mushroom), two sides, a dessert and a margarita or beer. The rooftop bar is open. //2900 Wilson Blvd., Arlington (Clarendon)
La Cote d’Or Café
The charming little bistro on the W&OD trail has stood the test of time with French standbys like quiche Lorraine, coq au vin, trout almandine, steak frites and croque monsieur sandwiches. //6876 Lee Highway
Arlington (East Falls Church)