Italian recommendations?

[jvm1975]

I'm visiting DC this weekend to run The National marathon and I was hoping someone could recommend a decent traditional Italian restaurant for my Friday night pre-race meal. I've heard of Potenza...any others? Nothing too fancy, more on the casual side. Thanks!

[baconjen]

A lot people on this board, myself included, love Dino (right near Cleveland Park metro stop) However, if you are going before a race, I guess you won't be drinking much wine, which would be a pity at Dino.

I also really like A La Lucia in Old Town Alexandria (especially their cannelloni) but I imagine that is too far/inconvient unless you are staying in VA.

[katecm]

We're not a city that is blessed with fantastic traditional Italian, sadly. However, for a big, heaping helping of pretty darn good pasta, Filomena is the place to go. Potenza is nice, too, as is Siroc, but Filomena will definitely help you carbload.

[Elyssa]

I took my sister-in-law to Dino for her pre-race meal. It seemed to fit the bill.

Another place to consider is Filomena in Georgetown. Great big portions of traditional pasta. Also get a piece of their delicious cake and save it for a treat after the race :)

Siroc is also delicious, although I wouldn't call it super casual. More like business casual...great food though. We went for my birthday in October and I've been meaning to go back.

[woodleyparkhound]

Check out Living Social [www.livingsocial.com] Dino is their deal of the day - spend $25 for $50 worth of food/drink at Dino. You have a year to use it, but it must be purchased TODAY 3/18/10 - it can be printed and used tomorrow.

[foodtrip]

Woodleyparkhound: Thank you for that tip!! Just bought mine.