Brenda Denny
Poplar’s farm-to-table concept is so thoughtfully executed — some of the ingredients are even foraged by the owner himself. I love how creative they are, and it’s impressive that they put out a new menu every single week. Everything is seasonal, so the food couldn’t be fresher.
The grilled flame beets with shallot soubise and pumpkin seed granola was the most beautiful and comforting dish of the night. I also love the intimate setting and how genuinely friendly the staff is. Poplar is definitely a place I’ll be returning to.
… moreSam Capasso
I went to Poplar with my partner and we had a lovely time. We made reservations, which was very easy, and got there on Thursday night. The service was great and helped us navigate the menu to ensure we had a wonderful meal. The oysters were wonderful and, though I usually eat them plain, the housemade cocktail sauce made me want to find more ways to eat it. The aguachil shrimp was so good (pictured) – sweet, tangy, and a little spicy.
I ordered the couscous with garlic scape pesto as something of a test. I make my own garlic scape pesto, in traditional Italian pesto style and technique, from the garlic I grow and is my favorite thing to eat this time of year. I was very happy to see that the pesto was made right and was at least as good as my own.
We were just about getting full when the panna cotta came out (pictured). It was a very good panna cotta and was very interesting. The stem of the “mushroom” was made with candy cap mushrooms, giving it a light and earthy sweetness, that was accentuated by the cherry cap and its cherry sauce.
Throughout, the beverages were excellent – even the non-alcoholic wine we ordered at the end because we are getting old. I’m always a fan of ANXO cider and the wines we had were excellent.
We learned while there that the CIA-trained chef was reluctant to have a restaurant and fall into making the same things all the time, so ultimately settled on cooking only if he could make a new menu each week.
Overall, a wonderful dining experience where the passion for interesting and fresh ingredients shines.
… moreWarty Junior
Nice ambiance, first time. Dishes seem small for the price. One dish very spicy without warning, despite us asking the heat of other dishes previously. Sides unimpressive (couscous served with two separate dishes).
… moreMichael McCarville
One of the most unique dining experiences in the area and maybe even DC. Elevated but approachable. Feels like a friendly neighborhood spot and also a Michelin-star restaurant. Menu changes all the time which may be my biggest gripe as sometimes I wish the amazing dishes would stay. Wine selection and the oysters are a must! Will be back often!
… moreLaila Salaam
awesome new restaurant. The dishes were so creative and everything left us wanting more. Can’t wait to see how the menu changes over the weeks! Will definitely be returning!
… moreholly garner
This is one of the most incredible dining experiences I’ve had in DC. The menu changes daily and I recently ordered the fish collar which was one of the best fish dishes I’ve ever eaten. I highly recommend eating at the bar and chatting with the staff to learn more about the food and restaurant. Much is foraged and sourced locally and the dishes are simple and delicious. So happy this place is here.
… moreAmber Gibson
Obsessed with Poplar. They update their menu weekly and feature really delightful wines and ciders (from Anxo!). They have a great vegetarian selection and as often as possible feature foraged mushrooms. Every time I visit I feel like it’s an “oops all bangers” situation.
… moreKatie Joselow
Just got back from my second visit to Poplar in 7 days and I am in love. The menu is always changing and reflects what’s truly in season. The chef and waiter forage for mushrooms and other delicious veg. What they can’t forage they buy local, very local. Last week the carrots were grown a couple blocks away. Dishes are finished with flowers from raised beds outside. The wine list is exciting and pairs so well with the food. I can’t wait for my next visit.
… moreKristin Franks
We’re visiting from Canada and Poplar was highlight of our vacation! Amazing service, wine and food! We can’t say enough about the hospitality, ambiance and welcome atmosphere! Poplar is a must!
… moreWilliam Coffin
This fantastic restaurant in Northwest DC offers a weekly menu change that keeps each visit exciting. Their wine menu boasts an impressive selection of choices. Don’t miss the bread! The attentive and knowledgeable staff is always ready to guide you through the ever-changing menu. Will come back!
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