Solo Dining Around U Street/Logan Circle

[Elyssa]

Hi All,

I might be taking myself out for dinner this weekend in the U Street/Logan Circle area. Apparently my go-to spot for solo dining in this area (Bar Pilar) is under renovations.

There are so many new restaurants in this part of the city, I was wondering if any stand out as good places for solo diners. I don't mind sitting at the bar, as long as it won't be odd for me to be there and reading a book. Also I'm likely going to be there Saturday night (around 6:30/7pm) so keep that in mind in terms of walk-in ability and crowds.

Some of the new places I've been curious about are Blackbyrd, Pearl Dive, and Bistro La Bonne. Would any of these work for solo dining?

Also note that I'll be at Masa 14 the next morning for brunch so that is out as an option.

[emcentar]

For what it's worth, I've eaten alone a few times at El Centro DF and always felt comfortable.
You'll be at Masa for brunch but I wouldn't have recommended it as a solo destination anyway. The one time I went I was surrounded by people on their first/second/third date. And it's so loud you can't hear yourself think. (I'm also not a huge fan of the food - too greasy and heavy for my taste - but I think I'm in the minority)

[hamster]

Bistro la Bonne has a really nice bar where you can eat comfortably solo. The servers there are great, and the food is yummy. You should try it.
Blackbyrd would also work, though the food is not as amazing as at Bistro la Bonne. I had the short rib dip sandwich there a few weeks ago, and enjoyed it. Much more variety and I think better value at Bistro la Bonne.
If you're looking for super casual, Greek Spot apparently now has seating there. I think it's better than Chix, right next door. Or, there's the brand new Taylor Gourmet as well.

[katecm]

You won't be able to get into Pearl Dive. It's a nuthouse there. I know these aren't new, but Birch and Barley does have a small bar area if you get there early enough, and after a dinner at Saint Ex two weeks ago, I'm struck by how I forget that it exists for food, but am always pleasantly surprised when I rediscover it.

Have you had the banh mi at Dickson? Their bar is teeeeeny, but when I've gotten there that early, I've been able to get one of the stools.

[Jeserf]

Agree with Birch and Barley - you can sit at the bar area that overlooks the kitchen in the back and it's fantastic.

There's also a bar at DC Noodles (I love their pumpkin curry bowl)

[agarnett100]

Elyssa -Blackbyrd, Pearl Dive, and Bistro La Bonne the menus for all three locations look good I don't think you could go wrong with either one let us know which one you select.

[woodleyparkhound]

I agree with Pearl Dive being problematic (i.e. really crowded) at that time. Love the place, but probably not the best thing for your current purposes.

[Elyssa]

Thanks for the info on Pearl Dive. It seems like I'm either going to have to wait until August when the city clears out to check that place out or go on a weekday.

[woodleyparkhound]

I think early on a weekday is best. We arrived on a Tues. at 7:30 (between Christmas and New Year's) and the place was mobbed - we had a one hour wait.

[Elyssa]

I haven't been to Dickson but it's on my list. Is it the type of place where I can go, eat and drink at the bar, and not feel out of place (especially if I have a book with me)?

I do like DC Noodles. But I'm hoping to try something new.

Perhaps Chix?

[woodleyparkhound]

I've been to Chix several times, but not for a year or so now. I think it would work fine for this. The food is good, but not mind-blowing, in my view. They do some kind of homemade juice there that shouldn't be missed. It hasn't been all that crowded when I've been. Sitting at a table shouldn't be a problem.