WHARF D.C. OPENS HOT RESTAURANTS, BARS AT WATER'S EDGE BECKON BY ROSHAN THOMAS
REQUIN PHOTO CREDIT: REQUIN
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fter the whirlwind Wharf grand opening at the beginning of October, residents of the DMV (D.C.-Md.-Va.) area finally have an opportunity to experience the unique offerings of this three-year, multibillion dollar development project. Now, three weeks later, as crowds of visitors begin to subside, restaurateurs may also be turning their attention to their core market: residents of the Wharf’s residential properties and surrounding neighborhoods. Among the many diverse dining options present across the 24 acres of newly-redeveloped land, here is a profile of some that have been gaining the most attention: Kith and Kin In a highly-anticipated comeback, Top Chef alumna Kwame Onwuachi’s second restaurant in the area opened in late-October in the new InterContinental Hotel. Paying homage to Onwuachi’s African, Caribbean, and Creole roots, the 96-seat restaurant showcases cuisine from these regions of the world in dishes such as tuna kitfu, honeynut squash veloute, and jollof rice. Kith and Kin is treating patrons to a unique atmosphere to go along with its one-of-a-kind menu, with sweeping views of the 6 | EATERY PULSE NEWS
waterfront visible from nearly all corners of the restaurant. Those looking to host events will also be able to do so courtesy of the 30-seat private dining room or one of the many event spaces available in the hotel. Kith and Kin is open weekdays from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and weekends from 6:30 a.m. until 11 p.m. Del Mar Fabio and Maria Trabocchi are no strangers to D.C. fine dining. The talented couple behind the hugely popular local eateries, Casa Luca, Fiola, and Fiola Mare, are adding to their collection of prime eats in prime locations with Del Mar, the newest upscale Spanish eatery to hit the Wharf. The restaurant is currently open for full service, but as an incentive to new customers, is offering 10% off bills until November 5 while its kitchen and waitstaff are fully trained. To keep things interesting, Del Mar offers a “sunset menu” from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, that features an assortment of cocktails, tapas, and everyone’s favorite, paella. Other highlights from the menu include a housemade chorizo burger topped with crispy calamari and spicy aioli, the “Maria,” a three-course, low-calorie tasting adventure, and a Fall chestnut soup with jumbo lump crab and a sherry cappuccino.