Located in the Penn Quarter and not far from the Verizon Center is Café Atlantico, another of celebrity chef José Andrés’ restaurants. It is an ode to Latin America, and is known for having one of the best cocktail lists in DC. The caiprinhas and mojitos are delicious, as well as the agua frescas, which are fresh fruit juices like pineapple or coconut that are made daily. The menu offers a mix of everything, from strip loin with a plantain puree to a daily fish served Veracruz-style but don’t miss the guacamole that’s made tableside. Café Atlantico is also open for lunch, and the Mexican chopped steak torta is worth the indulgence: tender strips of steak topped with slices of avocado and a fried egg enclosed within a toasted sesame bun. For brunch, when the restaurant offers its Latino Dim Sum, there’s no hotter place in DC than here. Also, for those wanting to catch a show after dinner, Chef Andrés offers a pre-theatre tasting menu. For those wanting an adventure, make a reservation at minibar, a restaurant within a restaurant that teases your mind and palate with some extremely conceptual food. Very few seats are available, reservations are required, and expect up to 30 bite-size courses during this wild culinary ride.

Cafe Atlantico Information:

• Latin American menu. Lunch, dinner. Closed Thanksgiving, Dec 24-25. Bar. Casual attire. Reservations recommended. Valet parking. Outdoor seating.