If you’re looking for flair on small plates, you can’t miss Jaleo by James Beard Award-winning chef and George Washington University food professor Jose Andres.
An extensive men of Spanish tapas is almost overwhelming, calling for multiple visits to sample the full spectrum of offerings. With locations in Washington DC, Bethesda and Crystal City (as well as Las Vegas), Jaleo makes it easy to do just that.
Here are top picks from a recent visit at the Crystal City restaurant:
Start with a Jaleo's Classic: Red wine sangria with brandy, lemon juice and apples
Ostras 'Gin & Tonic: Oysters with lemon, gin and tonic
Chistorra envuelta en patata frita: Slightly spicy chorizo wrapped in crispy potato
Paella/Arroz Mediterraneo: With shrimp, porcini mushrooms, mixed vegetables, black olives
Pastel de chocolate y avellanas: Chocolate hazelnut cake with praline ice cream and salted caramel sauce
'Pan con chocolate': Chocolate flan with caramelized bread, olive oil and brioche ice cream
Manzanas 'Carlota' al PX: Apple Charlotte with Pedro Ximénez and vanilla ice cream