Maman Joon Kitchen has arrived at 404 Eighth St. SE. The latest offshoot of a local Persian restaurant group, our Barracks Row newcomer showcases wonderfully exotic Middle Eastern cuisine. We were eager to explore the menu. Maman Joon is a tiny place–carryout only with no seating. Therefore, we ordered dinner to take home and share with our neighbor Aiden.
I rarely gives a carryout an “A.” Maman Joon is an exception. We began with kashk o bademjan, an eggplant dip. Other starters include dolmeh (stuffed grape leaves) and falafel; they were out of hummus.
On to kabobs: salmon was moist and flavorful; likewise, the chicken breast. Koobideh (ground beef) was crunchy on the outside with a succulent interior. The menu also lists combos and family platters, all served with rice and pita bread. Desserts: baklava, shole zard (rosewater and cinnamon scented rice pudding). Dinner for three came to $70 before tip.
Maman Joon means “Dear Mom.” There’s a nearby Maman Joon at L’Enfant Plaza. For hours (open daily) and more information visit mamanjoonkitchen.com.
It had been quite some time since I had visited Bombay Street Food 2, at 524 Eighth St. SE. The zesty Barracks Row standby has been a neighborhood favorite for almost six years. After attending an art opening at nearby CHAW (Capitol Hill Arts Workship), our party of four ambled over to Bombay for dinner. We’re glad we did.
Since it was a balmy spring evening, we yearned for al fresco dining, but Bombay had a half hour wait for an outdoor table, so inside we went.
We have always ired the colorful interior, festooned with images of Indian and American celebrities, including the late Anthony Bourdain. Bombay Street Food has an extensive menu, to say the least. Where to begin?
We launched our repast with Tandoori wings. Escorted by bell pepper strips and onions, the limbs arrived on a sizzling platter. The wings were delicious, delivering just enough firepower without scorching our palates. A mixture of minced lamb and chicken, seekh kebabs were served in a similar manner.
A cooler, less incendiary option is palak chat, crispy spinach dappled with yogurt and chutney. I opted for my favorite, a house specialty, Bombay biryani, basmati rice, layered with choice of shrimp. chicken, lamb, or goat. I chose goat. The chunks of meat were moist and tender. But—unfortunately–goat is very bony, so diners should pick carefully. The rice was enveloped with pastry, which our server dramatically uncovered tableside. Food presentation is important. We also considered ordering butter chicken, fiery vindaloo (choice of chicken, lamb or goat), lamb rogan josh, or choosing from assorted tandoori dishes.
A vegan option is Kolhapuri, which is mixed vegetables enlivened with coconut-scented yellow curry. Other plant-based choices are chana masala (chickpeas), aloo gobi (potatoes and cauliflower) and tadka dal (yellow lentils). Raita, concocted with yogurt and (usually) cucumbers and mint), cooled our smoldering palates somewhat.
We also nibbled on a basket of assorted Indian breads; we especially liked the onion-filled kulcha and garlic naan.
You can also find Indo-Chinese dishes including chili chicken, cooked in sweet/spicy tomato sauce, gobi or chicken Manchurian, flavored with ginger and garlic paste. Beverages include mango lassi, tea, juices and sodas. Among potent potables (full bar) are Indian beer (including the popular Kingfisher Indian brewski) cocktails and wine. For hours and more information visit www.bombaystreetfooddc.com.
Wine About it
Also on Barracks Row: Union Kitchen, on the corner at 430 Eighth St. SE, hosts a wine tasting every Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. A combination deli and upscale grocery, Union Kitchen boasts an extensive wine and beer selection. Open daily; for exact hours visit www.unionkitchen.com.
Speaking of wine: across the street 503 Eighth St. SE, Chat’s Liquors hosts lively wine tastings most Saturday afternoons. Hours may vary. For more information visit www.ChatsDC.com.
Soup’s On
Long-time residents claim: “if you don’t like Washington weather, wait a minute.” A few days ago, we were enjoying balmy spring temperatures. But then we were hit with an abrupt cold snap. So, Peter and I bundled up and sought culinary solace: a bowl of tummy warming soup at Los Caballeros, 308 Pennsylvania Ave. SE.
While munching tortilla chips with yummy tomato salsa, we ordered a rather potent margarita. Then we shared a bowl of tortilla soup, a savory broth laced with shredded white meat chicken, crunchy corn kernels and velvety chunks of ripe avocado. The potage was sprinkled with cheese and sprigs of cilantro.
Peter also ordered chicken enchiladas, two soft corn tortillas filled with tender chicken and smothered with house-made green tomatillo sauce and melted cheese. The generous platter was escorted by pico de gallo, guacamole, rice and refried beans. Guests can also opt for pork, ground beef, shrimp or cheese enchiladas.
Among other temptations are quesadillas (with choice of protein), fajitas, tacos and flautas. About two years old, Los Caballeros is open daily, including weekend brunch. For more information visit loscaballerosdc.com.
Pizza and More
In the Navy Yard, Emmy Squared Pizza, 1300 Fourth St. SE, has launched a spring/summer menu. Among seasonal offerings are watermelon burrata salad, the “le bleu” burger made with a half pound of black Angus beef and crowned with bleu cheese, and three pizza varieties. The popular restaurant chain, with 20 locations nationwide, Emmy Squared has also expanded its lunch options, cocktails and happy hour. For more information visit www.emmysquaredpizza.com.
