I am, and will always be, a major fan of ordering a whole bunch of appetizers, and no main course. As an indecisive eater, I can never choose between an old favorite, and a new zinger of a meal. The best way to choose? Compromise, and try it all. Family style dining is my favorite, and there’s no better place to do that than in the South. 

On Saturday, some friends and I ate at Takoda Restaurant and Beer Garden in the heart of Washington D.C. The rooftop bar is killer, and great for a nice view and a cool breeze. The owners have artfully hung a bunch of greenery around the space, and I love how indoor-outdoor the beer garden’s feel is. 

The dining room is equally as inviting, with a wonderful menu to boot. The small plates section was where I felt most at home, and we loved our rosemary biscuits glazed with honey and served with black pepper butter, brisket sliders, PB&J BBQ wings and the rosemary parmesan tots. 

If you’re looking for a relaxed, youthful vibe, Takoda Restaurant is a great place to check out. I would absolutely host a party there— the two floors feel intimate while remaining totally spacious. It’s hard to find a bar-restaurant combination that doesn’t feel too casual, or too exclusive. Takoda strikes the right balance, and won me over instantly. I’m still dreaming about those flakey, baked-to-perfection biscuits. The sweet-salty contrast was out of this world! 

What I’m looking forward to next time? Deep fried oreos, and the classic, Southern specialty, fried chicken and waffles.