Romantic meal for two near Lafayette Square

[Littleleese]

Hi all - just asking for a little inspiration. My husband and I are travelling to DC next month for his 40th birthday (surprise!) from UK. I've been searching for a restaurant to go to with him thats special enough for an occasion such as this, but not too 'over the top' if you know what I mean. Have eaten in plenty of stuffy British restaurants, and would rather go somewhere thats friendly and down to earth, but with great food, and most importanlty, great ambience. We never get time away from the kids so want it to be special. We're staying at the Sofitel on Penn. Ave NW. ideally somwehere not too far away?

[joann.hill12]

I think Obelisk in Dupont Circle would be perfect. The food is fantastic and the ambience is intimate, cozy, and inviting...anything but stuffy and pretentious.
The cuisine is Italian and I believe the five-course pre-fixe menu is $65 or $70 per person...can't remember exactly. I celebrated my last birthday there and highly recommend it.
Another good restaurant closer to your hotel is Siroc (also Italian). I dined there last week for the first time and found the food to be very good, although not as good as Obelisk. It's also a small and charming place...not stuffy at all.

[CDouglas]

Agreed. You will not go wrong at Obelisk. This is a slam-dunk recommendation.

[Jacey]

What kind of cuisine would you like?

Tabard Inn might work. 1789 and Marcel's are nice but might be too stuffy for you.

[littlew1ng]

equinox is one of the best restaurants in dc, is very romantic and is practically spitting distance from your hotel.

[Jacey]

I would have to disagree with this. I was there last month and thought the food was only so-so for the price. I wouldn't call this place romantic (I don't care if the Obama's went here on date night....they were in a private room). Plus, I feel like I'm in my grandma's living room. I know they didn't remodel too long ago, but it feels so bland.

[Elyssa]

I 2nd this recommendation.