Its not often (or at all really) that I find myself venturing into Glover Park.  But after five years of existence and an invitation, I finally hopped on the 31 bus and stopped into an establishment called Town Hall.  Having heard the company’s name on two occasions, all I really knew was it serves New American cuisine and that it was highly recommended.  Last week’s adventure into Glover Park left me wondering why I haven’t gone sooner.

Beyond the blue canopy reveals a bi-leveled interior full of dark wood and an inviting ambiance.  After being seated and handed menus, our waiter, Mo brought out pita chips with tapenade.  For starters, my dinner pals Bennett, Greg and I agreed on the Tuna Tartare with wonton chips and Almond Crusted Brie Cheese with Knott’s Berry Farm boysenberry jam, Pond Cove Honey and assorted crackers.  As seen in the pics below, both appetizers were very generously portioned.  I’d have to say the highlight of the Brie was the almond crust and Pond Cove Honey.   While  tuna tartare with guacamole, soy ginger and wonton chips are all ingredients to a great start, it was trumped by the brie cheese appetizer in overall flavor.

In between conversations about the documentary, “Food, Inc.,” sneakers, Darren Aronofsky’s Black Swan and other topics, our waiter was always attentive.  In a matter of a few trips, orders were taken, waters and glasses of 2007 Catena Malbec were always replenished.  And most important, Mo always came at the right time to ask how we’re doing.  I don’t think I was ever caught off guard with food in my mouth.  And that to me was most impressive.

For entrees, my colleague, Bennett went with the Duroc Pork Chop, goat mac and cheese with sauteed apple.  Much like my craving for almost any noodle soup, Duroc Pork was his safe haven.  Greg went with the Blackened Salmon which was accompanied by bacon braised spinach, black eye peas and white rice.  Ultimately, I opted for the Rigatoni.  Pasta and this Asian man are usually inseparable.  Plus with a mention of goat cheese, I was already dreaming about it’s creaminess.

The presentation of all three entrees made me wish I was living in Glover Park.  But here are two reasons for a return trip.  Prior to coming to Town Hall, I did not know that Duroc Pork is the Ferrero Rocher of all pork.  And secondly, Greg’s entree also featured fried carrot haystack.  I can only imagine how the contrasting textures from crispy carrot haystacks to the savory rice can please a wide range of palates.  Much like the brie appetizer, my entree featured ingredients that tasted good on their own.  However, in unison the tomato basil puree with goat cheese and pasta was as comforting as I imagined it to be.

By the time our entrees were finished, Bennett and Greg were ready for dessert.  I, on the other hand, couldn’t stomach anything else.  From what I remember, the desserts were Pumpkin crème brûlée and Apple cranberry crumble with vanilla Häagen-Dazs.  Having finally experienced this neighborhood restaurant , I can say this should be noted as a place to dine in DC.

Town Hall
2218 Wisconsin Ave, NW
Washington DC,  20007