Dupont Italian Kitchen Washington DC
Pasta and pride
Lined with outdoor eateries, this stretch of 17th Street in Dupont Circle is like an outdoor party in warm weather (and popular all year round in our post-pandemic life). Anchoring the corner of R and 17th is Dupont Italian Kitchen, opened in 1986 by two immigrant brothers, Michael and Tony. The restaurant's welcoming vibe makes it a community hangout for loyal locals and a favorite among LGBTQ residents and their families. The upstairs bar features karaoke and drag (check with the restaurant for events) and is a favored spot to view the Pride Parade or the 17th Street High Heel Race, run the Tuesday before Halloween.
While the menu is heavily skewed towards homestyle pasta and pizza -- a large selection including lasagna, ravioli and fettuccine Alfredo with shrimp, and an option to build your own pie from a dozen toppings-- it's a mistake to skip the less traditional Italian offerings - a plate of Brussels sprouts roasted crisply in the wood-fired grill, for example, or one of the best burgers in town, Italian-themed with pesto and fresh mozzarella. There is a full bar and an interesting list of craft cocktails plus a well-priced wine list with a house wine carafe option. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and the people watching prime.
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