News Summary
Washington, D.C. bids adieu to a prominent food critic who concludes a 25-year tenure with The Washington Post. The critic’s final dining guide features a curated selection of favorite restaurants while highlighting the diversity of the capital’s culinary scene, including their Restaurant of the Year, Albi. Additionally, they recognize stalwarts in the food industry amidst current challenges, leaving readers with a rich resource for exploration and appreciation of local dining amidst their departure.
Washington, D.C. is bidding farewell to a long-standing voice in its dining scene as a prominent food critic concludes their 25-year tenure with The Washington Post. The critic’s final dining guide, released this fall, not only highlights their favorite restaurants but also encapsulates a rich history of culinary exploration in the capital.
This year’s dining guide is notably the author’s last collection for the publication, as they seek a change in direction after a quarter-century of critiquing the region’s diverse food landscape. Although not retiring, the author aims to broaden their horizons while leaving an enduring legacy in D.C.’s culinary world.
The last guide stands out as a curated selection, featuring a Top 5 list along with 35 restaurants that exemplify the diversity of Washington’s dining options. Among these, the critic has named Albi, located in Navy Yard, as the Restaurant of the Year, celebrated for its authentic Levantine cuisine. This selection signifies not only the restaurant’s culinary excellence but also its cultural resonance within the vibrant food scene of D.C.
Hall of Fame Inductees
Additionally, the critic has named several longtime favorites, including Anju, Centrolina, and Fiola, as inductees into their personal Hall of Fame. These restaurants have consistently delighted diners with their high-quality offerings and have played a crucial role in the local gastronomic community. The critic’s final article serves as a “goody bag” for the readers, providing them with a valuable resource for exploring the city’s rich culinary offerings.
Coping with Industry Challenges
The restaurant industry has faced significant challenges in 2023, and the author encourages readers to explore meals away from home, suggesting it can provide inspiration during tough times. This sentiment underlines a broader discourse on the resilience and adaptability of the dining sector amid economic strain and changing consumer habits.
Recognizing Culinary Excellence
In addition to listing favorite dining spots, the critic highlights the achievements of local establishments within national and international contexts. Of particular note is Moon Rabbit, a modern Vietnamese restaurant helmed by chef Kevin Tien, which achieved the top local ranking of #17 on the inaugural “50 Best” restaurants list for North America. This accolade showcases not only the restaurant’s unique offerings but also the evolving appreciation for diverse cuisines within the region.
Further recognition comes for Susan Bae, Moon Rabbit’s pastry chef, who was named North America’s Best Pastry Chef. Bae’s creations encompass innovative sweet-savory desserts that draw inspiration from nostalgic Vietnamese flavors, affirming the restaurant’s commitment to high-quality culinary experiences.
A Legacy of Culinary Critique
Over their long career, the author has captured thousands of food-related photographs while reviewing restaurants. However, they have intentionally refrained from photographing dining companions, avoiding distractions from the primary purpose of their presence in eateries. This dedication reflects a deep commitment to the craft of food criticism and an appreciation for the dining experience.
As the critic departs from The Washington Post, they express a deep fondness for their readers, considering them among their favorite aspects of this journey. Their departure marks not just the end of an era but encourages a continued exploration of the vibrant dining scene across Washington, D.C., ensuring their legacy will live on through the culinary adventures of their audience.
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Additional Resources
- The Washington Post: Best DC Restaurants
- Travel + Leisure: Best New US Restaurant 2025
- The New York Times: Soul Food in Washington
- Resy: DC Restaurants
- Axios: World’s 50 Best Restaurants in North America
- Wikipedia: Washington, D.C.
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Washington, D.C.
- Google Search: Washington D.C. Restaurant Criticism
- Google News: Washington D.C. Restaurants
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.
