New on Resy: Maydan, Toki Underground, Thamee

The first thing you’ll notice at Maydan is its imposing, live-fire hearth. The second thing is the sensational fare that’s produced from the blazing pit: Syrian-spiced lamb shoulder, whole chickens seasoned with turmeric and coriander, and juicy duck breast kebabs. Pro-tip: order some spreads, if only to bite into the pillowy flatbread again and again.

The restaurant that introduced D.C. to ramen almost ten years ago is still as essential as ever. Critically-acclaimed mainstay Toki Underground continues to draw inspiration from the noodle bowls of Taiwan and Japan, doling out flavorful broths that’ll have you slurping to your heart’s content. Must-orders include the fried chicken steamed buns, red miso ramen, and Abura soba tsukemen.

D.C. welcomes its first full-service Burmese restaurant with H Street newcomer Thamee. And for those unfamiliar with the spice-laden cuisine, expect a hodgepodge of Indian, Thai, and Chinese flavors amounting to exquisite dishes like lahpet thoke (crunchy tea leaf salad), ohno khauk swe (coconut curry with chicken and noodles), and meeshay (udon with pork and fermented tofu), with a side of genial Burmese hospitality.

It’s easy to fall for this fun-loving trattoria, where revamped Italian food satisfies the Petworth crowd. And yet, Little Coco’s hides cheffy ambitions behind its playful looks, making everything from scratch, be it pizza dough, pasta strands, or baked bread. Come for the specials (endless Prosecco and pasta on Thursdays), and find love in the liquor cabinet—this eatery is serious about its Amari, and the bartenders know how to whip up a good cocktail.

Hong Kong is in the air at this boisterous Shaw locale. Tucked away in the historic Blagden Alley, Tiger Fork feels like entering a den, emblazoned with dragons on the exposed brick walls. Nosh on Hong Kong-inspired street food, barbecued dishes (get the soya chicken plate), and dim sum brunch, and top it off with something from the bar—Chinese medicinal herbs lend themselves surprisingly well to cocktails.

Ghibellina is a neighborhood staple through and through. The rustic Italian gastropub delights with its simple yet delicious plates, whether it be bubbly-charred Neapolitan-inspired pies, slick pasta, or gargantuan secondi—we like the disossata alla griglia, or the porcini-rubbed ribeye.

A beloved no-frills Mexican eatery, El Chucho has Columbia Height locals covered with inventive cantina fare. We’re talking tacos brimming with grilled octopus and braised pork belly, tortas stuffed with fried steak, creamy street-style elotes, market-fresh ceviche, smoked chicken enchiladas, and one of the best mezcal selections this side of town.

At Karma, complex and colorful sauces are spread across the plate like paintings, spices are ground in-house, and New Delhi native and chef Ajay Kumar takes delight in blending the cherished flavors of his homeland with local produce. Highlights include luscious lobster masala and cottage cheese with pesto paneer.

Ivy City isn’t your typical smokehouse; this lively spot deals in only cured and smoked fish. The industrial chic 1940s warehouse boasts a seafaring menu where in-house smoked fish draws the crowds, especially the tantalizing salmon candy, a Pacific Northwest-style hot honey smoked salmon best devoured layered on a bagel. 

A favorite of the after-work crowd, Bar Charley stands as a haven for patrons looking to sip, snack, and mellow out. Dreamt up by the same people behind El Chucho, this Adams Morgan establishment is rife with deals, too. Chef Adam Harvey knows his chops, so Sunday nights are a draw, where a bottle of wine boasts half-off steaks. And during the week, happy hour means excellent on-tap tiki cocktails (yes, please).

Devotees of acclaimed chef Peter Chang are sure to find delight at his Bethesda flagship. Q by Peter Chang is a stunning eatery decked out in rich jade chairs and intricate lattice panels that calls back to the Chinese banquet halls of lore. You’re in for a parade of Chang’s signature dishes, from a masterful Peking duck to dim sum brunch.

A noodle shop import from sunny LA, Jinya Ramen Bar knows a thing or two about broth. Theirs is simmered for over ten hours, and infused with pork bones, bonito, dashi, and kombu for a thick and creamy soup. The freshly-made noodles are supple and bouncy (and excellent for slurping), but if ramen isn’t your thing, delve into the homestyle curries and rice bowls.

Tex-Mex fare reigns supreme at this colorful Cathedral Heights hangout, but it doesn’t stop there. Cactus Cantina Restaurant taps into the flavors of Cuba, Spain, and South America for a sprawling menu of nachos, tamales, enchiladas, and tacos that’s bound to satisfy. Pro-tip: this cantina was made for groups, so don’t be shy, and bring a crowd.

As D.C’s oldest family-owned restaurant, Martin’s Tavern has a storied past (read: it’s where JFK proposed to Jackie). And with over 80 years under its belt, the Georgetown pub knows its stuff: Shepherd’s pie, fish & chips, and crab cakes are executed to the nines, within a bistro atmosphere that boasts stained glass light fixtures, chandeliers, and well-worn wooden booths.

Formal yet relaxed, fancy yet affordable, Lauriol Plaza is a sprawling Mexican establishment that’s set on four levels—outside cafe and rooftop bar included. You’re here for the see-and-be-seen scene, the bountiful plates (read: sautéed gambas, pollo asado, beef fajitas), and the libations (if you’re not drinking a margarita, you’re doing something wrong).