Primrose

This Brookland Bistro Pairs Zany Wines With Surprising Flavor Combinations | Eater DC

"A Brookland mainstay for wine and French bistro food, this spot recently got a modern upgrade from new executive chef Patrick Benton (Kinship, minibar, Café Riggs). His plates—like a vegetarian version of French onion soup and beets laced with chile oil—sync with co-owner Sebastian Zutant’s collection of unusual, exciting wines. The space feels like a fancy Parisian bistro transformed by co-owner Lauren Winter of D.C. design house Edit Lab, with a tin ceiling and in-motion art pieces projected on the walls. Order whatever bread Benton is making for the season; the Parker House rolls are a must-try with a distinct rye flavor and pillowy texture. Barbecued Hokkaido pumpkin becomes both sweet and smoky, layered with a creamy (surprisingly cream-free) pepita velouté and crisp puffed wild rice. Savory scallion sabayon is topped with earthy mushrooms, spinach, and flaky baked Atlantic tilefish—perfect for cold weather. Since it began as a wine bar, consult Zutant on what to sip, or ask about the impressive chartreuse (and other French herbal liqueurs) collection they mix with spirits like mezcal to create original cocktails. Benton’s new five-course prix fixe ($80) is more than worth it, now with surprise off-menu dishes like seared duck with a rich cranberry sauce; don’t skip the $40 beverage pairings, as Zutant will surprise you with skin-contact wine, crazy varietal mixes, and intricate stories for each course. Best for an eclectic group dinner for wine enthusiasts, where the meat lover can get a smash burger coated in Gruyere while vegans delight in small plates and mains like charred eggplant covered in warming ras el hanout seasoning." - Emily Venezky