Since it opened in late 2019, Emelie’s in Capitol Hill has quickly become one of the city’s must-visit restaurants. Keven Tien, head chef and co-owner who made his name at Himitsu in Petworth, leads the inventive and accomplished kitchen staff. The menu is organized with communal eating in mind, featuring shareable dishes both large and small. 

Make your start with a small loaf of house-baked focaccia or sourdough, then choose a few dips, spreads, and pickled vegetables to accompany it from the condiment cart that circulates around the dining room. For your main course, consider choosing one of the kitchen’s signature shareable dishes: a whole grilled branzino, a 25-ounce pork blade steak, or Tien’s famous crispy fried chicken served with Texas toast. All three draw rave reviews from critics and Yelpers alike. Whatever you choose, be sure to leave a little room for dessert (regulars say the old-fashioned cookies and milk are not to be missed).