100 Very Best 2017Between the wisteria-canopied patio and the intimate firelit dining room, Iron Gate is easily one of DC’s most romantic restaurants. (You can also indulge in some serious self-care in the lofty carriageway bar.) Chef Anthony Chittum’s Greek cooking—and a substantial Mediterranean wine list—only adds to the warm-and-fuzzy feelings. A wood-burning hearth and rotisserie bring flame-kissed flavor to the mezze roster and family-style tasting menu. Chittum also specializes in shareable platters for two or more, such as a mixed grill of steak, ground-lamb patties, and roasted quail alongside pita, crispy potatoes, and pesto. Expensive.
Ann Limpert joined Washingtonian in late 2003. She was previously an editorial assistant at Entertainment Weekly and a cook in New York restaurant kitchens, and she is a graduate of the Institute of Culinary Education. She lives in Petworth.
Anna Spiegel covers the dining and drinking scene in her native DC. Prior to joining Washingtonian in 2010, she attended the French Culinary Institute and Columbia University’s MFA program in New York, and held various cooking and writing positions in NYC and in St. John, US Virgin Islands.
Jessica Sidman covers the people and trends behind D.C.’s food and drink scene. Before joining Washingtonian in July 2016, she was Food Editor and Young & Hungry columnist at Washington City Paper. She is a Colorado native and University of Pennsylvania grad.
