Hey friends! I’ve been blogging a lot about food and my adventures around the DMV as of late because I want to make sure you guys take full advantage of everything this area has to offer. Today, we’re gonna talk about Ottoman Taverna.
Located across the street from Nicoletta Kitchen on 425 I NW, this fabulous Turkish restaurant is first rate so it comes as no surprise that the Michelin Guide named it a bib gourmand. Although their regular menu is on the pricier side, they have a reasonable lunch special available for $24.50, which is great for a 3-course meal in Washington, DC. Since I’m all about glam living on a budget, featuring the aforementioned deal was kind of a no-brainer.
You choose one app, one entree and one dessert from their express menu, and they have several vegetarian and gluten free options available for those of you with dietary restrictions. I recommend getting an order of their muhammara or hummus to start.
Muhammara is a red pepper spread that’s made with walnuts, feta and olive oil. If you haven’t tried it yet, give it a go because it’s absolutely delicious. All the ingredients come together to create a lovely texture that works beautifully with their pipin’ hot bread.
I’m assuming that you guys already know what hummus is, but just in case you don’t, it’s a creamy chickpea spread with tahini, lemon, salt and olive oil. It’s tough to pick favorites, but I’ll put it this way. They use a lot of olive oil in general – which I personally love – but it’s reallllly prominent in their hummus so if you want something a bit more subtle, go with the muhammara.
In terms of entrees, you can’t go wrong with anything listed. Expect to see classics like moussaka, pide (a loaded flatbread of sorts), köfte and kebap. My favorite was their döner kebap, and I’m planning on getting it again the next time I go. It’s thinly sliced beef and lamb served with veggies, a pita, and the most buttery white rice. Holy crap the rice was good, and you know that means a lot coming from me because I’m especially picky when it comes to rice. And I know this is the asian in me speaking, but I low key wanted sriracha on the side, lol.
The meat’s extremely tender and flavorful, and the portion’s big enough for two meals – I saved half and enjoyed it for dinner later that night. I didn’t get to try any dessert, but I hear good things about their baklava. They also have ice cream though so that’s an option if you prefer.
Now, I don’t know how many of you are looking to get lit during the week, but if you’re lunching on a day off, make sure to try a cocktail. Their drink program’s exceptional, and I recommend both the Aprodite Spritz and the Anatolian Fire. With the exception of their homemade mulled wine, everything is $14. I know that’s expensive, but again, you’re getting an awesome drink…and it’s DC.
Alright friends, I hope you enjoyed reading about Ottoman Taverna. What did you guys think of this meal? Do you think it’s worth the $25 price or is it too expensive for you? Let me know by leaving a comment below, and make sure to check out my food tab or Nomtastic Foods for more recommendations that will keep your stomach happy and satisfied. See you next time!
Wow! Everything looks so good and great review. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
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Of course! Thanks for reading =)