Best Restaurants in the Greater Washington Area

If one is truly serious about discovering the most subtle and charming dining experiences to be had in the greater Washington area, a mere step or two over the official city limit into Silver Spring will do the trick. Visiting Mrs. Kay's Toll House, the century-old residence of the toll keeper on the Baltimore to Washington highway, a wonderful meal, exquisite scenery and a gracious, old-world American atmosphere merge in a memorable way.

Long before entering the restaurant, Mrs. Kay's sets a high visual standard for the cuisine to match. Jane Austen herself would be pleased with the lawns and gardens, in summer bloom or under a dusting of snow. There are no poor seating assignments within the sunny interior of the Tudor architecture, but the generous window space of the terrace is, by far, the place to be. The first visit in this writer's memory was taken in a limo to celebrate a special occasion. Perhaps, that was the reason for such an allure. However, on the return trip in an all-American Oldsmobile, the grounds were more enchanting than ever. It seemed to affirm the point that Mrs. Kay's still offers a high-level dining standard while holding to a mid-level price.

The international wine list is extensive. Numerous cultures are represented, and virtually every national and regional taste can be satisfied. The Italian offerings are vast, followed closely by the French and American vineyards. The restaurant's recognition of the fine new wines from the Willamette Valley's north end show that they are keeping up with latest in the industry.

The presentation and timing of courses has been impeccable on every visit, and among the most successful aspects of the experience is the way in which between-course servings distinguish themselves in the memory, even with such excellent entrées to come. One patron remarked that he'd trade ten of the best filets he'd ever had for one more serving of the peanut soup.

More than in past years, the number of seafood dishes on the menu has increased. At the same time, beef entrées have grown more varied by cultural origin. While much of the dining world labors to find ever new ways of hiding the natural taste of beef, Mrs. Kay's continues to excel in enhancing it and allowing it come through as the rightful primary ingredient.

The quality of Mrs. Kay's continues to endure through the decades, and is still giving its best. On the next night out, go ahead and take those two extra steps. You won't regret it.