This romantic restaurant lies hidden away on a quiet Dupont Circle side street. But it’s no secret—just try booking a reservation. Whether you sit in the long, narrow carriageway fronting the restaurant, in the wisteria-canopied brick courtyard, or in the cozy banquette-filled and paneled main dining room, you’ll be smitten. (In winter, if health restrictions permit—at this writing Iron Gate wasn’t offering indoor dining, I would choose the main dining room, where the open kitchen and wood-burning hearth add a special glow.) Plates are to share or not and might include such delectable tastes as caramelized ricotta gnocchi, oak-grilled asparagus on a bed of lentil hummus, and, in season, Maryland soft-shell crab. Be sure to leave room for one of the delicious desserts, the crispy Greek yeast doughnuts with orange blossom syrup are a particular favorite.
Washington, D.C.› Restaurant
Iron Gate
1734 N St. NW (17th St.)
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Dupont Circle
Hours
Sun brunch 11am–2pm; Dinner Tues–Sun 5pm–10pm
Transportation
Metro: Dupont Circle (19th St. exit)
Phone
202/524-5202
Prices
Brunch/lunch a la carte dishes $6–$17; dinner a la carte $6–$75 (entrees for 2 people)
Cuisine Type
Mediterranean
Web site
Iron Gate
Other
Reservations recommended. Takeout and outdoor dining available.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.