America's Great Restaurants

Citronelle

Chef Michel Richard never fails to surprise his guests with foods that tickle the senses and challenge the palate, always with a new twist and turn at every course. Lucky are those who opt for the chef’s table where they can literally rub elbows with Richard. However, if you are seated in the front section of the dining room---and you should hope that’s where you are seated---you will have a clear view of the kitchen where Richard's team (helmed by David Deshaies) creates the gustatory treasures. When the ebullient Richard is in-house, he orchestrates a symphony of compositions and with steady gestures directs a seasoned cast, adding his own touch of brilliance: perhaps a pinch of spice, a dot of sauce, in a precise movement that indicates clearly his role as the master. Dishes rotate in and out according to his fancy and the marketplace, and have included Châteaubriand, tater tots, mushrooms and horseradish veal jus; and John Dory, oxtail consommé and fresh wasabi. Some mainstays: squab with leg confit and a foie gras Syrah sauce; butter-poached lobster and potato fried rice. The wine cellar, managed by Kathryn Morgan, lives up to the high quality of Richard's cooking. Don't be shy about asking the master to custom-design a meal for you. Richard is an artist with tricks up his sleeve. So, sit back and enjoy the inventive adventure. This is all about fun and festive eating. - Gayot

• Dining Style: Fine Dining
• Cuisine: French
• Neighborhood: Georgetown
• Price: 50 and over
• Cross Street: 30th Street
• Dress Code: Jacket Required
• Hours of Operation: Dinner: Sunday - Thursday: 6:30pm - 10:00pm, Friday - Saturday: 6:00pm - 10:30pm
• Payment Options: AMEX, Carte Blanche, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, MasterCard, Visa
• Parking: Valet Parking through the entrance to the Latham Hotel
• Gift Certificates: Yes
• Wheelchair Accessibility: Yes
• Restaurant Features: Banquet/Private Rooms, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Full Bar, Non-Smoking Area, View, Wheelchair Access
• Private Party Facilities: Renowned for its inventive menu and effervescent ambiance, Citronelle has evolved into one of Washington DC's most revered restaurants for intimate events. Citronelle offers three private dining rooms, and three, four, or multi-course menu options.
• Private Party Contact: Melanie Blonshine (202) 295-2004
• Executive Chef: David Deshaies