"If you're the type of person who is intrigued by the idea of a pine mousse and huckleberry granita, Bar Spero is right up your alley. Chef Johnny Spero's new D.C. spot features his own cerebral take on cooking, this time guided by his experience with Basque cuisine, ingredients from the Mid-Atlantic, and the kitchen's hearth fire. The result is grilled oysters, the prettiest beef tartare out there, fancy toast on delightful homemade bread, sharable options like imported Spanish turbot, and a burnt Basque cheesecake. The chef isn't above a burger—the version here features gooey smoked cheddar and miso pickles. If you're looking for a meal that toes the line between esoteric and playful, this is it." - Adele Chapin