America's Great Restaurants

Founding Farmers

Strategically located for highest visual appeal on the first floor of the IMF building, Founding Farmers appeals to all those craving home-spun food with a high-gloss spin. Set in a modern steel, glass and wood venue, FF operates on the premise that local and sustainable are more than just stock phrases that are now part of mainstream American conversation. Indeed, its ingredients---from veggies to pork, and all that comes in between---come directly from independent, regional farmers who support sustainable and humane farming; hence, everything tastes fresher, and yes, better. The restaurant’s design is “green” as well, incorporating reclaimed and recycled materials and using energy efficient plumbing and electricity. But apart from that, the chef indulges patrons with contemporary American cooking that incorporates such favorites as buttermilk-battered fried chicken, Yankee pot roast, and slow-braised short ribs with Yukon gold whipped potatoes. Yet the kitchen updates its dishes: the Southern fried chicken salad brims with such add-ons as chunks of apple wood-smoked bacon, shredded Tillamook sharp cheddar, and wedges of avocado. Breads don’t routinely come with the meal, so be sure to order one of the special flatbreads with such toppings as prosciutto, figs and mascarpone. Sweets include lemon meringue pie, vanilla-bean cheesecake and red velvet cake---a taste of Americana. Breakfasts, brunches and bar snacks round out the kitchen’s efforts. To keep pace with its upscale American food, FF offers an extensive wine list with selections from nearby Charlottesville to faraway New Zealand. Beers, too, get special attention with everything from American microbrews to Belgian Stella Artois. And teetotalers are not forgotten: the menu includes a full range of teas, coffees and fruit juices. - Gayot

• Dining Style: Casual Elegant
• Cuisine: American
• Neighborhood: Foggy Bottom
• Price: 31 - 50
• Cross Street: 20th / in Foggy Bottom
• Dress Code: Smart Casual
• Email: info@wearefoundingfarmers.com
• Hours of Operation: NOW SERVING BRUNCH ON SATURDAYS!******* Breakfast Monday – Friday 8 am – 11am Lunch & Dinner Monday – Wednesday, 11am – 10pm Thursday – Friday, 11am – 11pm Saturday, 2pm - 11pm Sunday, 2pm - 11pm Bar & Late Night Menu: Friday – Saturday 11pm – Midnight Try our fantastic Brunch! Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 2pm
• Payment Options: AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
• Parking: There is metered parking on Pennsylvania Ave., 20th Street, H Street and others within 2 blocks of the restaurant. There are 3 parking garages within 3 blocks of the restaurant, the closest is at the Shops at 2000 Pennsylvania; enter on 20th St.
• Gift Certificates: Yes
• Wheelchair Accessibility: Yes
• Restaurant Features: Bar Dining, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cafe, Chef's Table, Counter Seating, Farm to Table, Full Bar, Late Night, Non-Smoking Restaurant, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine, Wine Bar
• Private Party Facilities: Founding Farmers includes is a second floor mezzanine level that is ideal for special events/parties or corporate events and can accommodate 100 comfortably seated for dinner or 150 for a standing reception. Though there are no fully private rooms, the mezzanine has areas that can be 'zoned' for groups. Events larger than 25 guests will be offered a set menu of dining options, coordinated with the Special Events Manager, Meaghan O'Shea. Please contact her for more information on arrangements and menus.
• Private Party Contact: Meaghan O'Shea, Special Events Manager (202) 822-8783
• Executive Chef: Al Nappo