Palena thank-you and follow-up request

[djuna22]

I had posted here a few weeks ago to ask about good solo dining near Woodley Park; at the recommendation of a few posters, I tried Palena in CLeveland Park last nightl. I couldn't get a seat at the bar, but the staff was happy to give me a table for one, and I ordered a la carte off of the menu. The handmade gnocchi were fantastic, and the loup de mer was excellent (I particularly liked the squid in its sauce). My one complaint (and I imagine had I not been alone that this would have been less noticeable) was that the tables were so close together (I was seated in the cafe portion in the front) that I could not avoid hearing absolutely everything my neighbors had to say.

My follow-up request is this: it would appear that I may be required tonight to dine in Woodley Park with a small group (4-5 people). We are in from Seattle, so Asian food (Thai/Vietnamese/Japanese) would not be a big draw. Suggestions?

[Ericandblueboy]

Petit Plats. I haven't been in years but it's a solid bistro in Woodley Park.

[katecm]

Can you go back to Cleveland Park to try Dino? It's a quick cab ride or just one stop on Metro. You could walk if you're willing.

In Woodley Park, my favorite is the often over-looked New Heights (http://www.newheightsrestaurant.com/).

If you want to venture east into Adams Morgan (a quick cab or a lovely walk), try Cashion's Eat Place (http://www.cashionseatplace.com/).

[Doh]

I would second the recommendation to take a 5-10 minute walk over to Cashion's.

In Woodley Park, Lebanese Taverna offers good middle eastern food-- I always enjoy my meal but I wouldn't consider it a special occasion restaurant.

[mselectra]

Cashion's is great. Also really nice and closer to you is Mama Ayesha's (it would be less expensive, but still a pretty setting), middle eastern.