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855 E St., NW (9th St.) washington dc
202-393-0812
Minibar was formerly upstairs at the shuttered Café Atlantico, and now lives in a new location adjacent to the International Spy Museum, where chef José Andrés tests every new culinary concept for his expanding empire. But Minibar’s exclusive erstwhile essence remains: a space with room for just sixteen diners who pay $225 for a meal that has roughly thirty courses—each just one bite and prepared in front of you. It’s a little like sitting at a sushi bar, except the chefs are creating dishes that are startling in their originality. A Spaniard and a former protégé of Ferran Adrià, chef Andrés was one of America’s first proponents of molecular gastronomy, the mixing of science and culinary art. (Another bright light in the movement is Grant Achatz, of Chicago’s Alinea.) It’s fascinating to see all the tools of the trade in action. Tip: You will have a better chance of getting off the wait list if you are flexible about your date. Also visit the newest addition to Andrés’ portfolio, Barmini–the drinks lounge adjacent to Minibar that serves more than 100 artisanal cocktails. Set aside several hours for dinner
Written by Eliza Harris