Spork and Knife

Everyone has that one restaurant they consider to be their ol’ reliable.  The place where, without fail, you have a great meal with a setting that lends itself to all kinds of situations.  A meal with the parents, the significant other’s parents, groups of friends or even a business meeting. 

While its been a few months since I’ve made the trek to 8th street, I have to share my current go-to spot.  Belga Cafe is a gem tucked amongst the bars and quick eatery joints of “Barracks Row”. 

The fare is Belgian traditional (think mussels & frites, rabbit, etc.) with a twist, and the atmosphere is trendy yet sophisticated.  (Which is how I associate a lot of truly European influenced restaurants)  If you have ever had the pleasure to visit Belgium, then you won’t be disappointed with their beer list.  A personal favorite is Hoegaarden, a Belgian white ale.  If you like blue moon, then this beer is your next step up. 

Like I said before, I’ve not had a bad meal at Belga (hence, the branding as my ol’ reliable).  Some favorite dishes include the traditional bacon wrapped monkfish, leg of rabbit and the Euro Fusion pan seared scallops “three ways”.  As an appetizer the Kip & Krab Siggar (spicy cigar of chicken and crabmeat w/ assorted sauces) was a hit.  The only dessert I have tried, and subsequently remained loyal to is the vanilla waffles.  Ohh the waffles!  They come out piping hot served with a dish of ever-so-satisfying chocolate and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.  Each component shines on its own, but get a bite of all three in your mouth and you might start to sing. 

Prices are moderate ($15-$24 for an entree), so if you’re like me (and $15-$24 equals a weeks worth of brown bagged lunches) Belga is great for those nice nights out where you’re looking for something more than a plastic table as your dining surface (no disrespect to the plastic table restaurants).  For those of you with fatter wallets, head there often.  Belga has plenty on the menu to keep you satisfied!

Belga Cafe

514 8th Street SE, Washington, D.C.  

202-544-0100