Driving into Washington, DC on a Friday evening that was filled with downpours, it seemed dubious that the evening would lend itself to walking to dinner. However, after settling into our hotel and dressing for an evening on the town, the showers diminished to a drizzle and with an umbrella in hand, we headed out.
With our hotel located literally steps from Dupont Circle, we knew we would find a great dining destination quickly. Approximately halfway around the circle, we saw Circa, which was one of the restaurants recommended by our concierge. It seemed quite popular, as it was standing room only. However, the hostesses were pleasant and organized, which made the wait feel painless. With not a bit of room at the bar, we waited in the foyer for a table and were seated in little time considering the crowd.
Given a table on the covered patio, we were able to enjoy the slight breeze and view of the circle. Although we did enjoy dinner at this restaurant, the highlight for both my husband and me were our cocktails. With a menu of Signature Cocktails that had many fruit-based drinks, it was a torturous menu for me. Torturous in that there were so many drinks that I wouldn’t be able to sample!
I had my husband order first, so that I could have 10 more seconds to decide. Luckily he chose one of the drinks I was contemplating, which meant I’d get to sample at least two from their list. The Berry Smash was made with vanilla vodka, homemade turbinado simple syrup and freshly muddled berries. He loved the flavors in this drink, which were a nice combination of sweet vanilla and berries. For me, it was a pinch sweeter than I like, but a fine summer cocktail nonetheless.
I still was debating the benefits of two drinks, so I asked our waitress for her preference between the Organic Pomegranate Martini and the Pear Martini. She said that she liked the flavors in the latter option, and with that my order was placed. This concoction of pear and cinnamon-infused Stoli vodka with pear purée was delicious. Served warm, you might think you were consuming a liquid pear pie. Although the purée made the drink a little heavier than I typically enjoy, with its light flavors it was a wonderful libation.
Although it would be an eight to ten hour drive to return to Circa, it might be worth it. There are quite a few cocktails on that menu that I still would love to sample. Maybe it’s time to plan another road trip for my husband and me!
