Scion Restaurant: Local Eats in Washington, D.C

Whether you live or work in Washington, D.C. or are visiting the town, Scion Restaurant, a local establishment with a neighborhood flare, is a "must eat" locale. Established in 2009, Scion marks the foray into the restaurant world by Joanne and Julie Liu, daughters of long-time restaurant owners Jenny and Henry Liu of Jenny's Asian Fusion in Southwest Washington D.C. (located near the World War II Memorial).

The word "scion" means offshoot or a detached twig from a living plant. The restaurant is appropriately named as Joanne and Julie have known the restaurant world their whole lives. Not only do they bring that history of experience with them to Scion, but they also bring a bit of the corporate world having both worked as business women prior to realizing their dream of following in the family tradition.

Conveniently located less than two blocks from the Dupont Circle Metro stop (red line), you will find an eclectic group of people dining there, including students, businessmen and women, embassy employees and tourists. There's an wondeful selection on the menu of Asian inspired American food, including an incredible Kobe beef Scion burger that is not to be missed. It is topped with smoked Mozarella, sauteed onions and fried pickles (yes, fried) that infuse your taste buds with a sweet and tart flavor that will leave you yearning for this on a regular basis.

The mix of hearty appetizers includes the Surf and Turf Sliders which is a mini Scion burger mentioned above and a lump crab cake sandwich. Pair that with a salad or soup and you have a wonderful dinner. All of the dishes can be shared so choose without abandon so you can savor multiple dishes at one sitting. Another delectable appetizer is the Rock Shrimp Tempura which is fried light and crispy and served with a Scion dipping sauce. The Crab, Spinach and Artichoke dip is another great appetizer easily shared if you can get your hands on it before it is wolfed down by your dining mates.

Giving a nod to former D.C. residents, there is an entre called the LBJ Mac and Cheese, which stands for Lobster Meat, Bacon and Jalepeno with a five cheese combination. An interesting but very tasty dish.

And you must leave room for dessert. While the dessert menu is small what's offered has big taste. In addition to the homemade Apple Tart and Creme Brulee there is usually homemade Cheesecake with strawberry sauce in addition to a changing mix of seasonal desserts.

A first rate neighborhood restaurant with what the Liu sister like to call "sophisticated comfort food". Delish!

RESTAURANT: Scion, 2100 P St. NW
202/833-8899
HOURS: Lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Friday; dinner 5 to 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; brunch 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
PRICES: Starters $4.50 to $9; main courses $9 to $23; desserts $4.50 and $5.50. Lunch prices slightly lower.
PARKING: Street parking
ACCESS: Wheelchair accessible
METRO: Dupont Circle