A few months ago my friend J.A. met me at DC Coast for a drink and mentioned that her Peruvian cab driver had recommended El Chalan as his favorite Peruvian restaurant in DC. In an E.F. Hutton moment, a woman standing nearby blurted out: "he's right -- I love El Chalan!" Two weeks ago J.A. and I and two other friends finally tried out the restaurant, which has been serving Washington diners for more than thirty years. I can understand why Tom Sietsema said today that it is one of the most underrated restaurants in DC.
I hadn't rushed to dine there because it has a reputation for being, how shall I say, nonplush. We found it, despite its basement location, to be unexpectedly warm and comfortable, if, indeed, not plush. It's also known for attracting a crowd from the nearby World Bank, and the night we were there was no exception.
We started the meal with pisco sours -- a traditional Peruvian cocktail made with a type of brandy (pisco), lemon, sugar, egg whites, and bitters. The drinks were served in small, narrow glasses, and the creamy foam was topped with nutmeg. It was an elegant start to the meal, and a nice segue from a day at the office.
A fresh, sweet bread was served with a dip so hot that a little dab was plenty. We split the appetizer of fried mashed potatoes stuffed with beef and olives, which was delicious and not heavy (at least split four ways), and the ceviche tasted fresh and bright, and was a good-sized portion. Entrees include such dishes as aji de gallina (shredded chicken with creamy garlic, onion, and peanut sauce), lomo saltado (beef sauteed with fried potatoes, onions, and tomatoes), and cabrito norteno (goat stew cooked in beer, vinegar, onion and spices).
The service was both efficient and gracious. For example, after the first appetizer a server brought us new plates for the ceviche. Little touches like that go a long way.
El Chalan, which received two stars in Tom's 2006 Dining Guide, is just a short walk from the Farragut West Metro stop (18th Street exit) on the blue/orange line. I hope I will make routine stops there myself.
El Chalan
1924 I Street, NW
Washington, DC 20006
(202) 293-2765
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