restaurant rated: founding farmers

Last weekend, my friends and I had dinner at Founding Farmers in DC. I had heard good things about this unique restaurant, but nothing could have prepared me for such an amazing dining experience. The concept of Founding Farmers is a fascinating story in and of itself: a fully sustainable green restaurant owned by 40,000 or so local farmers with a mission of providing customers "true food & drink." Check out this video from USNews for more info.

The atmosphere suitably blends a chic urban style with the 'family farmhouse kitchen' look. We sat on wooden stools at a long table made of reclaimed driftwood. Had we known our meal would last three hours, we probably would have requested more comfortable seating. But it's important to note here that meals should be eaten this way: slowly. Founding Farmers has a reputation for being slow, and they need no excuses. You will not find a restaurant that serves a more fresh meal, and the chefs are culinary geniuses.

The menu is extensive and seasonal, and our server, Charles, was excited to give explanations of dishes and answer our questions about the restaurant. Each plate was full of flavor (and luckily, everyone was eager to share.) After savoring my handmade pasta dish (which was tossed in a light broth with asparagus, thick-cut bacon and mushrooms), I wasn't sure if I had room for dessert. We were all happily stuffed, but my friend kept singing praises of the dessert menu. We decided on a slice of carrot cake, cheesecake and red velvet cake to split among the six of us. As I am not usually a fan of carrot cake, I was surprised when I found myself wanting to continue eating it alone. This recipe changed my mind about about carrot cake, and thus, the restaurant earned my utmost recommendation and gratitude.

Founding Farmers is a testament to the pleasures of real food, as well as the future of "green" dining. If you are in the DC area, make reservations at Founding Farmers, and I promise you will not be disappointed.

actual location: 1924 Pennsylvania Ave NW DC
cyber locations: www.wearefoundingfarmers.com
hours: daily 8a-10 or 11p, more details
price: $$
seating: bar, table, booth
cash/credit: both
brunch: yes, sundays

RESTAURANT RATED:
Food: A+
Drink: A (they make their own ginger ale, c'mon)
Service: A
Atmosphere: A