"If a love letter existed in restaurant form, it would look like Ama. Literally meaning “love” in Italian, the Navy Yard newcomer is intimate enough for a first date, but not so stuffy that you can’t waltz in for a solo dinner at the bar (where you can people-watch along New Jersey Ave). Always start with the focaccia di formaggio, which has got to be some of the best this side of the Atlantic. The blissful combo of fresh, flaky dough and melty cheese is so divine, you may find yourself levitating. Pasta is, of course, a must here, and the raviolini al tocco is the move. Stuffed with braised pasture-raised beef and escarole and dipped in a savory meat jus, you’ll wonder whether any other pasta dish in DC can compete. (At the moment? Doubtful.) Leave room for the tiramisu because A) tiramisu is always a good idea and B) the housemade mascarpone is magnificent." - omnia saed, madeline weinfield, jonathan smith, mekita rivas, allison robicelli, omnia saed, kym backer