We had been trying to make our way to Rasika since it first hit the DC scene, but it was one of those places where you could never seem to get a reservation. Then, word came along of a second location opening in West End, which raised our hopes (temporarily) until we found that there, too, you had to book a month in advance. Shucks.
Well, we finally got our act together, or some friends of ours did, and booked us a reservation in advance. Table for four, please, we'll see you a month from now. It's okay, it was so worth the wait!
A seat at this place is a hot commodity, so try it all we must, and did. We started with a few appetizers and the Bread Basket, of course inclusive of a couple of Naans. The crispy spinach was so good, we ordered a second round for the table.
Onto the main courses... we went with some of the classics, like the Chicken Tikka Masala and spicy Lamb Chettinad. Both were delicious, as to be expected. One of our dining companions ordered the Wild Boar, which was a real treat. And not to be expected, the side of lentils, which personally I find to sometimes be a bit boring, were full of flavor and goodness.
Despite how full and satisfied everyone was feeling, we couldn't stop without a taste of the desserts. And they surely did not disappoint. The Kesar Pista Kulfi, an Indian ice cream specialty, was truly unique. The Date and Toffee Pudding: amazing. And you can never go wrong with a classic Rice Pudding.
Aside from the food, I do understand what keeps this place booked for weeks in advance. The service is just impeccable, down to every little detail. From the moment you are greeted to the second you sit down, you feel the staff making every effort to ensure you have a pleasant experience. "How was it? Did everything taste okay?" Okay? No, it was exquisite.
Our 3 1/2 course meal took a couple of hours, but we didn't at all feel rushed to turn the table.
Our 3 1/2 course meal took a couple of hours, but we didn't at all feel rushed to turn the table.
Rasika is "modern" Indian, unlike its more traditional sister Indian restaurant, The Bombay Club. And the decor attests to the restaurant's concept. The booths are futuristic, seemingly in a world of their own. The whole design is very chic.
