

10
"It doesn’t matter if you visit Minetta Tavern for a cocktail at the bar alone on a Tuesday or plan weeks (months?) ahead for a Saturday dinner with friends that stress tests your credit limit. Much like at the original New York location, both experiences will feel special. The vibes—and seemingly the decor—have been air-lifted from Greenwich Village to Union Market, with buttered yellow light, black-and-white tiled floors, and burgundy banquette booths just begging to be splashed with a bit of gin from a full martini. Whenever you go, and for whatever occasion, the space will probably be packed with people loafing around the bar and sipping drinks while waiting for a seat. You should do the same, and forget about how long the wait might be. You’ll get a table (or a bar stool) eventually, and when you do, order the coq au vin. Served with housemade gnocchi and arguably substantial enough for two, it’s one of the best versions of the dish we’ve had, and it works particularly well with a Burgundy from the deep and French-leaning wine list. Or if you’re here mostly for the burger that launched a thousand TikToks, don’t worry, the Black Label made the trip down to DC, too. photo credit: Corry Arnold photo credit: Corry Arnold photo credit: Corry Arnold photo credit: Corry Arnold Pause Unmute" - Jonathan Smith