Washington, D.C. - May 16, 2008

Oh My Darlin’

Darlington House Opens

When it comes to local restaurants, it seems that they’re either too stark or all chintz. It’s rare to find a spot that’s just darling.

Or, more precisely, Darlington.

Dupont’s new Darlington House brings three dining concepts to a former house (don’t miss the Victorian molding and lighting). Chef Alexander Schulte relocated from The Modern in New York to cook seasonal, primarily sustainable dishes. The menu includes house-made pastas (try the fettuccine with calamari), peppery line-caught salmon with sweet and sour vegetables, and flourless chocolate cake with coconib crunch.

Downstairs is a casual cantina, but don’t let the flat-screen TVs (or wooden deer heads) fool you; the flatbread pizzas, charcuterie plate, and rib eye with shallot compote are a far cry from wings and nachos. The third floor library will soon offer Wi-Fi, cappuccinos, and breakfast pastries for lounging.

It’s enough to make the House a home.

Darlington House, 1610 20th Street NW, between Q Street and Hillyer Place (202-332-3722).

  Alfresco, Happy Hour