Odd because it had a wide variety of food, from the $76/person five-course meal to the $10 cheeseburger. Odd because the cheeseburger comes with a small side portion of curry-pickled vegetables. My friends and I went for the cheeseburgers and fry plate, and we all thought everything was perfect. The burgers were the best I have ever eaten. Also, service... more

We have eaten here a few times as we can walk there but I will not go again mostly because the helpings are so small. The food is delicious and beautifully presented but even with two courses if you don't fill up with the very good bread you come away hungry. It costs too much for that. The servers are... more

A great find by my tour guides, assisted by trip adviser. We had the 2 courses + desert menu. The food was delightful: light, tasty and perfectly cooked. I don't go much on presentation, but everything looked great too. Service was just right, always there but never imposing. Well worth the taxi ride. more

About the best restaurant in DC. more

Good burgers more

The consomme was Spring in a bowl. Top shelf food in a comfortable atmosphere. Want to try the cafe soon. more

Had a great experience...food was quite good for comparably priced DC restaurants, service was reliable and attentive, and atmosphere was enjoyable. However, recommend you ask for a table that is not in the front of the restaurant (less atmosphere and drafty). Bar and related service was prompt, polite and did not rush us out as we shared an after dinner... more

The food at Palena was great! more

Palena was a huge disappointment. You may think this is an Italian restaurant, but no serious Italian restaurant serves cheeseburgers or Indian flavored hen. Is it international or fusion cuisine? The fact that the owner worked for two US presidents at White House and chefs have impressive résumés mean nothing if the food is horrible... We live in Cleveland Park... more