Recently I visited the Washington, DC location of Nobu.  I’d been meaning to visit a Nobu location for quite some time and just hadn’t taken the time to do it.  I had a special occasion coming up so I thought, no better time than the present.

Location (score 10/10): 

2525 M St. NW Washington, DC 20037 - For reference it is close to the Georgetown area.

Parking (score 10/10):

There are lots of parking garages in the area.  Additionally, the restaurant offers valet parking.  I chose the valet parking option which cost ~$20.00.  The attendant was pleasant, attentive and prompt.

Dress Code (score 8/10):

I didn’t see a dress code posted on the restaurant website, so I assumed that the dress code was business/smart casual and dressed accordingly.  If the restaurant has a dress code it doesn’t appear that it is implemented.  Individuals were dressed in suits, dresses, jeans, hoodies (even though it was Louis Vutton) and sneakers.  From what I could see no one was turned away.

Ambience (score 10/10):

I would describe the atmosphere as low key.  The volume was low enough that I didn’t feel the need to speak loudly or yell.

Clientele (score 10/10):

It is the place to see and be seen.  At any visit you are likely to see an athlete that plays for one of the local professiional teams, a local politician or the like.

Food & Drinks (score 9/10):

Appetizer & Entree -

Of course the menu is Japanese inspired.  With a variety of meat (beef, chicken, lamb, etc.), seafood (fish, shrimp, lobster, scallops, etc.) and vegetarian options.  You will see familiar options such as sushi and sashimi.  In addition you will find some unique dishes like tuna belly.  I tried several a la carte options, from specialty sushi rolls, Chilean Seabass with Black Bean Sauce, Main Lobster Wasabi Pepper, Toro Sashimi Truffle Tamari with Jalapeno Salsa just to name a few.  All of the dishes were great!  I’m pescatarian and the menu offered plenty to satisfy my dietary needs.

Beverages -

I am not much of a drinker, so I just tried one of the signature cocktails.  The cocktail was delicious.  I believe it was the Lychee & Elderflower Martini, that had edible butterflies on top.  

Dessert -

For dessert we had the Buttermilk Donuts.  They were cooked to order and delicious as well.

Kid Friendly (score 2/10):

I don’t recall seeing any kids during our visit.  In most cases I would say that the restaurant is not kid friendly.  Of course there will be exceptions.

Observances & Recommendations:

• I would definitely recommend that you try this restaturant.
• If you decide to try this restaurant, having an open mind and being an adventurous eater will make the experience more enjoyable.
• Portion sizes are small, so set your expectations and prepare accordingly.
• Make reservations.  This is a DC hotspot.
• The waiter suggested the Omasake.  While I chose the a la carte option for my inital visit, I will definitely try the Omasake the next time.  
• Remember that the Omasake is chef’s choice.  If you are not an  adventurous eater it may not be the best option for you.
• If you don’t already know, the cost to eat here is pricey but worth the price in my opinion.  A dinner for two with every type of seafood possible cost ~ $350.00. 
• The restaurant is very much suited for a special occassion such as a birthday, anniversary or something similar.