Marcel's by Robert Wiedmaier

Washington DC

French Restaurant

$$$$

With a menu the size of an impressive coffee table book, Marcel's offers a prix fixe with as many as seven courses. The standard meal here consists of five separate plates off the seasonal tasting menu, beginning with a spread of finely-curated charcuterie, and finishing with some truly picturesque desert. The in-between plates range from things like vermouth-thyme sea urchin flan and brandied-cherry venison, to smoked bacon-butternut squash -- eats meant to address just about every flavor variety out there, without sacrificing creativity. With white leather seats, massive regal chandeliers, and an elegant marble-topped bar, the place certainly offers an elevated dining experience -- and as is essential for all upscale eateries, the bartenders make a mean Manhattan.