Michel Richard Citronelle, Washington

The tasting menu was simply the best food I have ever eaten. This is my third time ordering the tasting menu and although a bit pricey, definitely worth every penny. I have not found a better meal in DC!

Perhaps the best DC restaurant in which I have dined in many years. The inventive menu is something rarely seen in these parts. I would have not even thought of making a tart covered with a puree of snails. Quite a delightful appetizer. If you like game prepared with flair accompanied by exceptional wines, this is the place. The dining area is rather dark and just a bit cramped for my taste, but many table provide you with a theater-like view into the kitchen. That's always entertaining if you don't have the right crowd for some good people watching. Service in impeccable. Located right off of M Street in Georgetown, you need not got deep into the city to experience Citronelle. Valet parking is a must if you drive. Citronelle also has a very well stocked bar especially if you like single malt. I suggest getting there just a bit earlier in the evening and having a drink. This is the type of dining experience that you want to ease into. No need to rush. Reservations are a must as is respectable attire. You're not at Olive Garden for Pete's sake!

We dined here in July 2007 to celebrate a birthday and the food was absolutely the best I have ever eaten in my life! Every course was meticously prepared and in unique ways (such as the eggplant gazpacho with the tiny cubes of vegetables - very unique). Every dish was unique and a complete pleasure to the taste buds. We re-made the eggplant gazpacho at home and it reminded us of our wonderful experience. We ordered the chef's tasting menu and although I was completely full when it was time for the dessert and cheese courses, I had to eat at least half. Each dish is unique and just perfectly prepared - this is how fine food should taste. Citronelle by far has been the best dining experience for me; I've dined in some of the top restaurants in Chicago, Philadelphia, Baltimore and D.C. and this one by far comes out on top. Just be prepared to sacrifice a car payment for dinner - but it's well worth it for a special evening or occasion. Note: It's located in the Lanham hotel, so it can be a bit difficult to to find - we used the navigation in my car and it's not obvious that it's in the hotel.

I liked every single thing about Citronelli although it was a little challenging to initially find the entrance to the restaurant. Dinner was a celebration of my retirement from my friend, Joanne. The food was scrumptious, the service impeccable, and the atmosphere elegant. We had a wonderful, wonderful, evening. I have no idea what Joanne had to shell out for this evening (I know it wasn't cheap) but it was certainly an evening I will remember. It is a place I will go back to for another special occasion or to just enjoy an elegant wonderful meal with friends or family.

I've lived in D.C. my whole life and Citronelle's food was amazing. Orgasmic! The ambiance was great and all the staff were attentive. Especially the bar staff. They showed us a great time.

Citronelle makes me proud of Washington. I'm happy to live in a city with such sophisticated cuisine.