Price: $$$

Intrigued by the on site garden where seasonal herbs, vegetables and greens are grown and harvested for use in restaurant’s dishes, my girlfriend and I headed to lunch at Poste Moderne Brasserie, located inside the former mail sorting room of the historic 1855 General Post Office. Forced to take public transportation as my car was buried under a pile of snow from a recent blizzard, I was pleased to find that Poste was located in heart of Penn Quarter and a short walking distance from the Gallery Place Metro Station. Neighboring venues like the Verizon Center, Shakespeare Theater and the National Portrait Gallery, make the restaurant an ideal spot for pre and post event dining.

Upon entering I immediately noticed the chic interior, featuring original skylights, plush banquettes and a comfy waiting area where my girlfriend was sitting, awaiting my arrival.

We were greeted immediately by the host and seated in one of the plush booths. On the way to our table we passed the bar, which is surrounded by a glassed-in pavilion and the magic place where Mixologist Rico Wisner creates inventive cocktails and infused vodkas utilizing fresh and organic ingredients from the herb and vegetable garden. We were also able to get a peak at the Parisian-style outdoor terrace with views where guests are given the opportunity to enjoy dining and happy hours during warmer months.

With foodies and health gurus alike preaching the benefits of seasonal eating, Poste's Chef Robert Weland is on trend with his signature seasonal menus. I loved how the menu was divided into three main categories - Ocean, The Pasture and The Garden. My friend is a serious Francophile, so she ordered the foie gras terrine with toasted brioche for $19 from The Pasture and I chose the wreckfish from the Ocean, which was topped with parsley root, brussels sprouts and chanterelles from the garden and priced at $27. We both enjoyed our dishes and the service was attentive, but far from annoying, allowing us to get in lots of uninterrupted girl talk during our meal. For dessert we indulged in the Chef's Warm Date Pudding Cake with prune and armagnac ice cream, which was delicious and the serving large enough for two.

After finishing our dessert, we were stuffed and satisfied. We agreed that the food was delicious, the atmosphere welcoming and the customer service top-notch. Poste is a great choice for an upscale, yet casual lunch or dinner and with a space so tucked away, it’s easy to forget you’re in the middle of the nation’s capital.

Price Scale: $ = under $25 $$ = $25 - $50 $$$ - $50 - $75 $$$$ - $75 and up
Scale is based on a 3-course meal per person