Argentinean Steakhouse by Iron Chef Jose Garces at 15th and M St, NW to be called Rural Society

1177 15th Street, NW

Back in March we noted the coming soon signage for the Argentinean steakhouse that is replacing the Federalist inside the Loews Madison Hotel. Now we know the name – Rural Society:

“This summer, award-winning chef Jose Garces will debut Rural Society, an Argentine steakhouse, at the Loews Madison Hotel. Following a multi-million dollar renovation, the Loews Madison is proud to be home to Chef Garces’s first restaurant in Washington, D.C.

The name Rural Society is derived from La Sociedad Rural Argentina (Argentine Rural Society) and La Exposicion Rural, an annual event in Argentina that is part livestock show, part gaucho exhibition, and part glittering social gathering. A major cultural and political event in the South American nation, La Exposicion Rural has brought together large crowds since its beginnings in 1866. After a visit to Argentina and Uruguay with his team earlier this year, Chef Gaces returned to the States inspired by the sights, sounds, tastes and traditions of Rural Society.

In tribute to this celebratory time, the open flames of a parrilla (Argentine grill) will welcome guests into the new Rural Society restaurant. All meats, fish, and some vegetables will be grilled here in the center of the restaurant, on the grill fueled by charcoal as well as traditional Argentine hardwood (quebracho).

Rural Society is also celebrating the Italian culture so embedded in Argentina. Guests can expect handmade pastas along with fugazzas (thick-crust Argentine pizza). In addition to presenting apéritifs and digestifs, Rural Society’s bar will showcase South American and Argentine wines.

We look forward to welcoming you to Rural Society in Washington, D.C. this summer.”