Chances are if you research Acadiana on the internet, you will likely discover it is a region in Louisiana originally recognized as “L’Acadiane.” However, we suspect if you are reviewing Acadiana on CAYPO, you might be more interested in hearing about the Passion Food Restaurant Group’s Acadiana Restaurant.
From the same group that developed and launched DC Coast, Ceiba, PassionFish, District Commons and BTS, Acadiana brings a robust menu centered on contemporary Louisiana fish ideology, and the “only restaurant in the nation’s capital to serve Louisiana cuisine at a heightened level of elegance.”
Esquire Magazine, Washingtonian, and Garden & Gun have each announced to their readership that Chef Jeff Tunks and team are successfully crafting dishes that pay homage to the rich, complex flavors – namely “the roux, the rémoulades, the bisques, and the étouffées” – from the infamous culinary region.
Upon entering Acadiana’s doors, located at 9th and NY Ave NW, we noticed a contrast from the stereotypical “DC scene” and were excited to discover a dining-room atmosphere that offered both a unique level of sophistication with a laid-back, welcoming vibe. The modern decor, vaulted ceilings and open concept help to develop a sense you are dining with friends from around the neighborhood, even if those around your table are complete strangers.
Although we highly recommend reservations, the Cocktail Menu (complete with its own robust Bourbon/Whiskey section) is a great place to start off the evening while waiting for a table. The CAYPO recommendation here would be a pitcher of the Pimm’s Cup for Two. For dinner appetizers, we found the “gas station” pork boudin balls (served with a creole mustard and picked peppers) and the “b.l.t.” salad with benton bacon and cherry tomatoes to be a wonderful introduction. For entree, you absolutely must try the Louisiana seafood gumbo with a hearty portion of jumbo lump crab meat, shrimp, crawfish, oysters, redfish and cajun “kick” all bundled into a dish that is so perfected you will think you stepped out of downtown DC and onto Bourbon Street.
On a side note, Acadiana also offers a superb Happy Hour Menu with 1/2-price Appetizers from 4pm to 630pm (Monday-Friday) and 4pm-930pm on Sunday: $5 Specialty Cocktails, Wine Selections and $4 Draft Beers.
