"From a big celebrity chef, this Italian steakhouse is another top steak option in the district, but it throws in great pasta options as well. Located in the Intercontinental, the restaurant rarely draws large, noisy (and perhaps nosy) crowds—perfect for navigating any awkward getting-to-know-you conversation out of earshot of others. Most of the menu items are simple but elevated takes on the usual steak cuts, house salads, and pasta. We like the spaghetti with pomodoro, and the cocktail menu has a noteworthy list of fun and showy drinks (think glass smoking cloches and misting bottles) that can help you jumpstart a dying discussion." - demarco williams, nina reeder, juli horsford, jacinta howard