Washington, D.C. - October 12, 2005

Something to Sing About

Zengo Opens

It’s been said that restaurants are the new theaters. Was it only a matter of time before they became the new opera halls, too?

In one of the stranger ensembles of the season, Placido Domingo will trade arias for arepas when he opens the doors (raises the curtain, you might say) at Zengo, the restaurant he’s partnered in with Richard Sandoval (of the Maya in Denver) and Alan Yu (former sous chef at Citronelle).

The Latin-Asian menu features unexpected pairings that come together (dare we say it?) harmoniously: red-hot edamame, lobster and habanero sushi roll, and mushroom dumplings with tequila and ginger sauce. Diners craving an orchestra pit experience should grab a seat at the long ceviche bar. There’s a large communal chef’s table in the main dining room, and the lounge downstairs will serve an abbreviated menu until 11.

And what’s an opera without a set? (Other than a bunch of fat ladies singing.) The warm, modern space hits all the right notes: Soaring windows look out onto 7th Street. The abstract mural in the glassed-in private dining area was painted by local artist Roberto Sablayrolles.

Incidentally, there’s no need to sing for your supper.

Though who’s to blame you if the urge should strike?

Zengo, 781 7th Street NW, between H and G Streets (202-393-2929).