Claudia’s Steakhouse Opening in “Late Spring” Downtown, Executive Chef from Bearnaise

1501 K Street, NW

From a press release:

“Restaurateur Claudia Rivas, owner and COO of Claudia’s Steakhouse, announced today the appointment of renowned DC chef Brad Race to take over the helm at Claudia’s Steakhouse – a new classic American-Latin fusion restaurant and lounge set to open at DC’s Investment Building at 1501 K Street, NW in late spring. Race, not new to the DC restaurant world, has shared his culinary talents with District residents via his popular steak frites at Bearnaise where he served as Executive Chef. Race has also delighted foodies at other neighborhood restaurants including Michel Richard’s Michel, Jose Andres’ Minibar, as well as NYC’s Le Cirque, Nobu and Oceana.

Race and Rivas have carved out a classic American menu that features an authentic Latin twist. From the dinner menu, guests should be eager to try “Claudia’s Prime Empanadas” – a small plates menu item – or the “Negra Modelo Drunken-Rib-Eye” for an authentic Latin steak dinner. The lunch menu offers more casual Latin entrees like the “Chorizo hotdog Juarez style” and the “Mojarra Frita”.

“I’m excited to be joining the Claudia’s Steakhouse team and eager to incorporate my flare of American dishes with Claudia’s original recipes,” says Race. “My specialty is designing menus that blend international flavors and I’m eager to present an exceptional Latin inspired cuisine to the Washington community.”

Rivas is thrilled to introduce to Washingtonians and visitors alike her passion and flavor of Latin culinary culture. She grew up in El Salvador and learned how to cook from her grandmother, Julia Aguilar, a professional chef who spent her cooking career as a private chef for an Argentinean family who settled in Puerto Rico. Consequently, Claudia learned recipes with both El Salvadorian, Argentinean, Caribbean’s influence and has obtained expertise in Latin tradition.

The Latin experience does not stop with the food. With a seating capacity of 300 and space for 400 throughout, the 7,500-square-foot Claudia’s Steakhouse will serve as a lounge, social scene and a sophisticated dining spot. The restaurant’s interior atmosphere exhibits a modern architectural design aesthetic with contemporary furnishings, soft lighting and a relaxing ambiance that features buoyant Latino music and Salsa dancing on select evenings.

“The essence of Claudia’s food preparation is rooted in my family tree that dates back four generations,” says Rivas. “I am creating a genuine dining atmosphere and want to share the tastes and influences of original Latin cuisine. Claudia’s is not just a sit-down dining experience, it’s an all-evening affair.”

Two private dining rooms offer guests a more intimate space that are ideal for gatherings of up to 120 people and perfect for birthdays, receptions, business events and fundraisers.”