Chinatown

641 Indiana Avenue, NW

“Dear PoPville,

Walked by on my way back from lunch, Grand Trunk is having a soft-opening with free samples of their very varied menu… breakfast foods, curries, naan, burgers, salads, tea, smoothies… All in a night-club atmosphere with techno music, chandeliers, flatscreens, etc. I couldn’t get a decent photo through the window due to glare from the sunset or it could have been the glare from the disco ball, mirrored wall paper and central circular bar/tandoori oven (with stools). While I might seem harsh, this place is a sight to behold and thoroughly ridiculous. Words cannot describe it properly.

Would love to hear some other opinions.”

@grandtrunkusa tweeted:

“We invited the neighborhood in to try a few samples, we didn’t disappoint! #WashingtonDC #southasian #restaurants”

Photo by @grandtrunkusa

418 7th Street, NW

Thanks to @MuddyMaeSuggins for the heads up about the newly opened China Chilcano’s menu:

China_Chilcano_Menu (PDF)

Anyone take an early taste?

641 Indiana Ave, NW

It mid-December we noted the new signage after first hearing of the plans back in November 2011. T-8 days – thanks to a reader for sending a photo with the countdown (from earlier this week, dang snow messed up my schedule.) We’ll revisit to take a look at the menu.

418 7th Street, NW

Remember Wagamama?

Back in October 2013 we learned that Jose Andres would be opening a new Chinese-Peruvian Restaurant, China Chilcano, in the former Olsson’s Bookstore and once hoped for Wagamama on 7th Street.

Their website says:

“The latest brainchild of chef José Andrés and his talented team, China Chilcano celebrates the rich culinary diversity of Peru and brings an exciting exploration of this multicultural cuisine to our nation’s capital. The restaurant celebrates Peru’s deeply rooted and diverse culinary heritage, including its native Criollo, Chinese Chifa and Japanese Nikkei cuisines; its name an homage to Peru’s celebrated fish stew and its popular national drink, the Chilcano.

At China Chilcano, Criollo exists in every single dish on the menu, whether it’s joined by Nikkei, with nigiri served on a bed of causa, a signature dish of puréed Peruvian potato, or Chifa, through a chaufa dish made with fried bananas. Also present throughout the menu are dishes that have come to embody the native style of cooking. Chifa is where traditional Chinese techniques meet the exotic flair of Peruvian ingredients, while Nikkei features Japanese-inspired dishes using native techniques and ingredients.

China Chilcano welcomes you to discover José and team’s unique take on contemporary Peruvian cuisine, an intriguing amalgam of authentic and innovative dishes that are, in a word, unforgettable. Bold flavors, heady aromas and the buzz of excited diners take you on a sensorial journey that is anything but everyday.

Signature dishes like chifles and anticuchos reflect its native Criollo, while its Chinese Chifa is evident through flavorful stir-fries and freshly made dumplings from our lively dim sum bar. Experience Japanese Nikkei cuisine with Asian-style ceviches and tiraditos, as well as Peruvian-inspired nigiris. Imaginative cocktails feature an extensive Pisco library and essential Peruvian desserts serve as the perfect complement to your exploration of Peru and its food.”

Today’s the day:

A peek inside after the jump. (more…)