When indecisive, go for the chefs table which includes all of the apps but also an extra tasting per course. Aside from the food which was near perfect, the ambiance is very unique outside dining in a semi enclosed courtyard, railyard bar, and dining in a lodge-like room with fireplace. Some of my favorite dishes were the veggies, surprising because I'm more of a meat eater. Cocktails were excellent but do ask the bartender since not all liquor is documented. Wine list is extensive
Erica Mays
-
March 24, 2024
Best food I’ve had in DC since I moved here two years ago. Will be ecstatic to go back again. We did the fixed price menu and spent $240 after tax and tip, including one mocktail. Can’t spend this much often but if you’re going to, this is a fast place to do it at. Huge recommend.
Digital Hassan
-
January 05, 2024
Title: "Flavors and Flames at Iron Gate: A Soloist's Culinary Adventure" Review: During my recent visit to Washington DC, I embarked on a dining adventure at the Iron Gate Restaurant, drawn in by its renowned character. Despite the host's initial hesitation due to my solo status, I was eventually seated, setting the stage for an evening of delightful surprises. The culinary journey was a mix of hits and misses, with a three-course menu offering various flavors. While some dishes felt like solo acts rather than a cohesive band, others, such as the Squash Variation and the dramatically presented Oak Grilled White Stone Oysters, shone brightly, showcasing the kitchen's flair for combining drama with taste. The sugary but delightful Bittersweet Chocolate Budino stood out among the desserts. The ambiance of Iron Gate came in three distinct flavors. After traversing the bustling Carriageway, I arrived at the Wisteria-Covered Patio with its unique, fiery table decor. However, it was the Sumptuous Dining Room where I settled, finding it transforming from a lively space to a tranquil haven as the evening progressed. The music, a soft rock and roll backdrop, added a touch of romance to the atmosphere. A highlight of the evening was the service, mainly from my waiter. He was pleasant and took the time to enlighten me about the restaurant's history and cuisine, adding a personal touch to the experience. As the crowd thinned, the restaurant embraced a quieter, more serene mood, allowing for a peaceful conclusion to my meal. In retrospect, Iron Gate presented an evening that balanced generous portions and culinary exploration with moments of quiet charm. Not every dish was a perfect melody, but the overall experience, combined with thoughtful service, made it a four-star adventure for those who appreciate the unexpected twists and turns of dining out.
Laurie Zabala
-
March 03, 2024
Such a romantic restaurant! Perfect for date night. My boyfriend & I had dinner here the Monday after valentine's day as a belated valentine's dinner. I was pleasantly surprised that the restaurant still had its valentine's decor in the bar entrance. So lovely! We made reservations for seats in the outdoor patio under the grapevines due to the reviews from other guests. Each table has a fire pit. And that was the major selling point for me to pick this restaurant. Great ambience for dinner. The restaurants provide blankets upon request. The seat warmers weren't working, but I still requested to sit on one rather than sit directly on the cold steel of the patio chairs. The fire did a good job of keeping me warm as it was a chilly February night. Since it was a Monday evening, there weren't many guests which was great. Nice & quiet for a romantic dinner. The service was excellent. Our waiter recommended a Greek wine which both my boyfriend & I really enjoyed. The cuisine is Greek Mediterranean. The dishes were unique, creative, & had great presentation. Everything was delicious from start to finish. It's family style so all dishes from appetizers to entrees to dessert are shared. We enjoyed the experience & left full but not overly stuffed, which is always a plus. The citrus salad & housemade focaccio bread were particular delectable. Highly recommend!! We'll be back for sure.
Ray Mehta
-
January 21, 2024
Our experience at Iron Gate during DC Restaurant Week was rather disappointing. While the anticipation was high, the reality fell short. The menu offered mediocre fare that failed to leave a lasting impression. The dishes lacked the innovative flavors or unique twists that one might expect during such an event. There was an absence of that wow factor that elevates a dining experience. The ambiance, although pleasant, couldn't compensate for the lackluster culinary journey. The restaurant failed to deliver anything special that would set it apart from others participating in DC Restaurant Week. It seemed like a missed opportunity to showcase the best of what Iron Gate could offer. Overall, the visit was underwhelming, and we left without the satisfaction one hopes for after dining out. For those who appreciate culinary adventures and seek standout experiences, Iron Gate might not be the ideal choice. This particular outing left us questioning the hype surrounding the restaurant, as it failed to live up to expectations during a time dedicated to highlighting the culinary prowess of establishments.
When indecisive, go for the chefs table which includes all of the apps but also an extra tasting per course. Aside from the food which was near perfect, the ambiance is very unique outside dining in a semi enclosed courtyard, railyard bar, and dining in a lodge-like room with fireplace. Some of my favorite dishes were the veggies, surprising because I'm more of a meat eater. Cocktails were excellent but do ask the bartender since not all liquor is documented. Wine list is extensive
Best food I’ve had in DC since I moved here two years ago. Will be ecstatic to go back again. We did the fixed price menu and spent $240 after tax and tip, including one mocktail. Can’t spend this much often but if you’re going to, this is a fast place to do it at. Huge recommend.
Title: "Flavors and Flames at Iron Gate: A Soloist's Culinary Adventure" Review: During my recent visit to Washington DC, I embarked on a dining adventure at the Iron Gate Restaurant, drawn in by its renowned character. Despite the host's initial hesitation due to my solo status, I was eventually seated, setting the stage for an evening of delightful surprises. The culinary journey was a mix of hits and misses, with a three-course menu offering various flavors. While some dishes felt like solo acts rather than a cohesive band, others, such as the Squash Variation and the dramatically presented Oak Grilled White Stone Oysters, shone brightly, showcasing the kitchen's flair for combining drama with taste. The sugary but delightful Bittersweet Chocolate Budino stood out among the desserts. The ambiance of Iron Gate came in three distinct flavors. After traversing the bustling Carriageway, I arrived at the Wisteria-Covered Patio with its unique, fiery table decor. However, it was the Sumptuous Dining Room where I settled, finding it transforming from a lively space to a tranquil haven as the evening progressed. The music, a soft rock and roll backdrop, added a touch of romance to the atmosphere. A highlight of the evening was the service, mainly from my waiter. He was pleasant and took the time to enlighten me about the restaurant's history and cuisine, adding a personal touch to the experience. As the crowd thinned, the restaurant embraced a quieter, more serene mood, allowing for a peaceful conclusion to my meal. In retrospect, Iron Gate presented an evening that balanced generous portions and culinary exploration with moments of quiet charm. Not every dish was a perfect melody, but the overall experience, combined with thoughtful service, made it a four-star adventure for those who appreciate the unexpected twists and turns of dining out.
Such a romantic restaurant! Perfect for date night. My boyfriend & I had dinner here the Monday after valentine's day as a belated valentine's dinner. I was pleasantly surprised that the restaurant still had its valentine's decor in the bar entrance. So lovely! We made reservations for seats in the outdoor patio under the grapevines due to the reviews from other guests. Each table has a fire pit. And that was the major selling point for me to pick this restaurant. Great ambience for dinner. The restaurants provide blankets upon request. The seat warmers weren't working, but I still requested to sit on one rather than sit directly on the cold steel of the patio chairs. The fire did a good job of keeping me warm as it was a chilly February night. Since it was a Monday evening, there weren't many guests which was great. Nice & quiet for a romantic dinner. The service was excellent. Our waiter recommended a Greek wine which both my boyfriend & I really enjoyed. The cuisine is Greek Mediterranean. The dishes were unique, creative, & had great presentation. Everything was delicious from start to finish. It's family style so all dishes from appetizers to entrees to dessert are shared. We enjoyed the experience & left full but not overly stuffed, which is always a plus. The citrus salad & housemade focaccio bread were particular delectable. Highly recommend!! We'll be back for sure.
Our experience at Iron Gate during DC Restaurant Week was rather disappointing. While the anticipation was high, the reality fell short. The menu offered mediocre fare that failed to leave a lasting impression. The dishes lacked the innovative flavors or unique twists that one might expect during such an event. There was an absence of that wow factor that elevates a dining experience. The ambiance, although pleasant, couldn't compensate for the lackluster culinary journey. The restaurant failed to deliver anything special that would set it apart from others participating in DC Restaurant Week. It seemed like a missed opportunity to showcase the best of what Iron Gate could offer. Overall, the visit was underwhelming, and we left without the satisfaction one hopes for after dining out. For those who appreciate culinary adventures and seek standout experiences, Iron Gate might not be the ideal choice. This particular outing left us questioning the hype surrounding the restaurant, as it failed to live up to expectations during a time dedicated to highlighting the culinary prowess of establishments.