Peachy's Picks Washington DC: Clyde's Original M Street Georgetown Restaurant
We are pleased to kick off our coverage of restaurants in Washington DC! We thought we'd start with the best, as usual, and so we began at 3236 M Street Northwest in Georgetown, which is home to the original Clyde's.
They even have a Christmas tree!
On the left is fabulous Sous Chef Amanda Freas and on the right is equally outstanding Manager Andrew Kaiser who were each a delight to meet.
Clyde's was first featured in Tasty Tidbits:
And its wonderful sporty American flair and great food have earned it a spot in Peachy's Picks, and the very first spot in Peachy's Picks Washington DC.
It's not who you know, it's Whom You Know we keep telling you, and you'll recall we do know a guy named Tony Marinelli, who first mentioned Clyde's here when he worked there in his Georgetown years:
and you know Tony is now a Mover and Shaker:
Tony and his pal Dick Scalise, one of "the early colorful bartenders at the original Clyde's Georgetown" serving US Senators, Congressmen, acts from the Cellar Door (Mammas and Pappas etc) gave us the thumbs up which we now pass along to you.
You'll be greeted by the Nutcrackers at the door!
They are quite friendly.
Peachy began with the crab and artichoke dip. Simply amazing, this dip could become habit-forming. The crust on top was baked to perfection, the crab was fresh and fantastic, and it had the right amount of saltiness. If you are just going in for drinks, this is what you should order to go with them.
The Hearts of Romaine Caesar Salad was classic paired with grilled crouton and fresh grated parmesean cheese. A terrific start to a meal!
This is what the postcard looks like that Andrew gave Peachy; if you have been to Boston it reminded her a bit of Cheers with a Washington flair. Clyde's to us was far more New England than New York. But if it were New York, it would definitely be Upper East side, which of course is the best place in town. Maybe they should open one here...
Fresh water is on the table which is quite thoughtful.
We noticed the bathrooms were superclean and the staff goes in to check them too. The wait staff is talented enough to balance four plates on one arm.
We are pleased to say we saw a strong selection of American wines on the menu.
Peachy sipped a Merlot "Reserve" Angeline, Sonoma County, California 2009 which was full-bodied and rich, boasting notes of black plum and dark berry fruit with a soft finish.
As an entree, Peachy tried the Linguini and Clams: littleneck clams, garlic, white wine, parsley, chili flakes and EVOO. The clams were chewy and delicious and we loved the garlic which was not overpowering at all.
Our esteemed panelist ordered Pumpkin Ravioli which were so appropriate this fall season! Beautifully presented, these star ravioli were joined by roasted chestnuts, sage, brown butter and Pecorino-Romano cheese.
And you know of course you have to wear the A. Marinelli shoes when you dine at Clyde's:
The grand finale?
They are known for their Chocolate Bread pudding, which we can assure you is every bit as delicious as it sounds. It did not last long-especially the bits of chocolate. Rich croissant pudding served warm with creme anglaise will leave you wanting to know when you will be back next!
Peachy Picks Clyde's!
