Michel Richard's modern American brasserie,and winner of the 2008 James Beard award for best new restaurant is located on Penn. Ave NW between the White House and the Capitol. We serve Michel's tribute to great American cuisine, both modern and classic, with a French accent. A vibrant bar scene with boutique beer and wines, and modern and classic cocktails.

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573 Current Reviews

Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews

Overall

(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5

(573 Reviews)

Rating Breakdown 573 reviews

5 stars

(244)

4 stars

(235)

3 stars

(71)

2 stars

(20)

1 star

(3)

Food

(Outstanding) 4.4 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 3.8 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

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Diners classify this restaurant as:

fit for foodies(344)
special occasion(189)
hot spot(176)

notable wine list(122)
great for lunch(118)
vibrant bar scene(107)

Central Michel Richard Reviews List

Review 1 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

excellent business lunch

OpenTable Diner Since

Dined on 6/14/2013

2012

Dined on 6/14/2013

2012

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Moderate

"Sat outside, excellent service, delicious food (although my asaragus weren't that great to be honest), the mussels were amazing, the bread so good and also the dessert which I packed and took home. An expensive lunch, but at 3 courses and great service, ideal for a business meeting. I really liked sitting outside, it was a late lunch which was the only time I could get a table."

Dined on 6/14/2013

2012

Special Features: great for lunch

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Review 2 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Slap your momma

OpenTable Diner Since

Dined on 6/15/2013

2013

Dined on 6/15/2013

2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Quiet

"The food was delicious. Main reason to go to eat. Atmosphere and service were great."

Dined on 6/15/2013

2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot, special occasion

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Review 3 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fantastic Dining Experience

OpenTable Diner Since

Dined on 6/15/2013

2005

Dined on 6/15/2013

2005

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"From sppetizer to dessert, the whole experience at Central Michel Richard was outstanding. The memories of each course will be with us for a long time since each was a delight."

Dined on 6/15/2013

2005

Special Features: fit for foodies

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Review 4 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Loud and tasty - just right

OpenTable Diner Since

Dined on 6/14/2013

2006

Dined on 6/14/2013

2006

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Good) 3 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Revisited for the third time and remains consistently just want we were looking for. Loud and vibrant crowd. Creative but approachable menu and each dish flavorful. Took our 17 year old niece, who had as good a time as her middle-aged aunt and uncle. Shared apps and main. Selected mostly the seafood dishes plus one short ribs (touch of decadence). All superb. Great to have the consistency in quality and atmosphere (did I mention loud?)."

Dined on 6/14/2013

2006

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot

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Review 5 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Fair) 2 / 5

Won't go back

OpenTable Diner Since

Dined on 6/14/2013

2012

Dined on 6/14/2013

2012

Food

(Poor) 1 / 5

Service

(Good) 3 / 5

Ambiance

(Fair) 2 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Food was not good, starter had little flavor, appetizer came out with dinner and was poorly prepared, entrees tasted something homemade, and desserts were anything but fresh, they seemed to be frozen and or sitting in the fridge for quite a while."

Dined on 6/14/2013

2012

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Review 6 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

One of my favorite restaurants

OpenTable Diner Since

Dined on 6/11/2013

2005

Dined on 6/11/2013

2005

Food

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Good) 3 / 5

Noise Level

Moderate

"Love Central...so much on the menu I like that it's hard to choose ....salads, seafood ...great burgers
Central has something for everyone!
Can't go wrong going here!"

Dined on 6/11/2013

2005

Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, hot spot

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Review 7 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Fair) 2 / 5

Great Food Bad Service

OpenTable Diner Since

Dined on 6/10/2013

2012

Dined on 6/10/2013

2012

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Poor) 1 / 5

Ambiance

(Good) 3 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Food was awesome service was horrible. Seem to be short staffed. Service should be gentle and not noticed. Took a while for orders. After served appetizer and entre waiter never came back to table to check. I was never offered a second drink. Cocktail glass sat empty for a while and had to ask for another drink. Food was amazing and saved the evening espically dessert!"

Dined on 6/10/2013

2012

Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene

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Review 8 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Delicious and fun

OpenTable Diner Since

Dined on 6/10/2013

2013

Dined on 6/10/2013

2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"First time eating at Central. Met my sister for an early dinner,
We shared the cheese gougeres, soft shell crab appetizer
And fried chicken. Everything was delicious and just what I expected.
The staff was great, and I loved the relaxed atmosphere.
Only downside was that we had no room for dessert.
Can't wait to come back with my husband."

Dined on 6/10/2013

2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, hot spot, special occasion

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Review 9 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Loved it all!

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 6/10/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Quiet

"First, let me qualify that we ate here at 5:30pm on a Monday night. The restaurant was not very busy yet, so my experience may not reflect what's typical. That said, our server was fantastic- knowledgable, professional & attentive. The bread is baked specially for the restaurant and it is out of this world! As mentioned in other reviews, the fried chicken is outstanding! My husband had to try it, after reading a Wash Post review some time ago. It's not your usual fried chicken so have an open mind if that's not your thing. (I never eat fried food and after tasting this, will order it myself next time.) The beet salad was a hit as well as all of the dishes ordered by our party of four-- raves were given to the soft shell crab appetizer! A+"

Dined on 6/10/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies

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Review 10 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Can't wait for them to come to NYC!

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 6/08/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Good) 3 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Four women celebrating a 60th birthday.... loved the food. We ordered three appetizers and three mains. Fried soft shell crab appetizer was amazing, and the asparagus risotto, creamy and delicious! Roast chicken and salmon were fabulous! Can't remember the other dish, but we all loved the food. The place was busy, noisy, but service was great. Our waiter was able to chat here and there as he went by. Will look forward to it in NYC."

Dined on 6/08/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion

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Review 11 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Good) 3 / 5

Terrible service..

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 6/08/2013

Food

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Service

(Poor) 1 / 5

Ambiance

(Fair) 2 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"I read online before we went that the service was spotty however spotty was not the word. Awful was more like it. We had no clue who our waiter was. We were served part of the time by the hostess. When we did finally ask who our waiter was we could never get his attention. This was an anniversary dinner and a total flop. I will never go again and never recommend this restaurant to anyone."

Dined on 6/08/2013

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Review 12 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Still didn't get lamb burger right

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 6/08/2013

Food

(Good) 3 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Central is a fun restaurant that can be exceptionally noisy. Luckily there were a few outside tables. I have ordered the lamb burger medicum rare twice and it is always fully cooked by the time it gets to the table. I would suggest ordering it rare. I assume the large volume means that food sits for a bit before being served. The french fries are some of the best I've had and the rest of our food lived up to expectations."

Dined on 6/08/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot

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Review 13 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Every aspect was 5 stars

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 6/08/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Rarely have I been to a restaurant that hits all the notes perfectly: from the food to the service, everything my friends and I experienced at Central was amazing. The best part? Nothing is overly pretentious or snooty! The food was understated on the menu (for example, "Meatloaf") but every item we sampled was cooked perfectly, innovatively, and tasted wonderful. The presentation of the food was at the same time functional and beautiful-no mile-high tower of 30 different foods on one plate. Our server and hostess were warm and friendly, but had impeccable manners and made sure we were always well-taken care of. Great mood lighting as well."

Dined on 6/08/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot, special occasion

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Review 14 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Business lunch

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 6/06/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Quiet

"Great food and service. Too loud for the business lunch we tried to conduct there."

Dined on 6/06/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, great for lunch

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Review 15 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great food and energetic atmosphere

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 6/06/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Good) 3 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"We enjoyed the meal, cocktails, and the chocolate bar. I would skip the cheese puffs as they lack flavor and there are better apps. Our waiter was rushed and seemed stressed. I will be back though for another deliscious meal!"

Dined on 6/06/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies

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Review 16 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A real fun lunch

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 6/05/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"A bottle of wine and amazing food......and at lunch!! A bonus for some much needed time off. Frisee (sp?) salad and the blue cheese salad - YUM!! My husband loved his burger and my soft shell crab special tasted as good as it looked. What a fun place. We love to sit back by the kitchen to watch the action and to see all of the great dishes being prepared. LOVE this restaurant!!!"

Dined on 6/05/2013

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Review 17 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 6/05/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Central is the best restaurant in DC. I have never not been satisfied. The food is excellent; the staff efficient. What else is there to say?"

Dined on 6/05/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot, great for lunch

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Review 18 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Good) 3 / 5

Food great, service dropping off

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 6/05/2013

Food

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Service

(Good) 3 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"The food, as always, is great. Unfortunately, the service is beginning to drop off. When I arrived, the hostess took a call rather than acknowledge me. She was on the call for about five minutes, knew that I arrived first, but was going to check in first the party that arrived after me.

Our server was not any better. She was blunt a d not very engaging or welcoming. Seemed to take offense that we didn't order dessert and only brought bread after we were half way done with the meal.

The service has usually been good here. Hopefully this isn't indicative of a new downward trend."

Dined on 6/05/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, hot spot, great for lunch

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Review 19 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 6/04/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Moderate

"Outstanding quality of the food goes without saying, but service also was exceptional - informed on the dishes, everything well-timed, unobstrusive - perfect."

Dined on 6/04/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

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Review 20 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Good) 3 / 5

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 6/01/2013

Food

(Good) 3 / 5

Service

(Poor) 1 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"The worst service we have gotten here. The server was slow, disorganized. We waited 1/2 hour before our order was taken! Not our usual experience at Central!"

Dined on 6/01/2013

Special Features: good for groups, hot spot

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Review 21 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Good) 3 / 5

Tough to review

Top 1000 contributor

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/10/2013

Food

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Service

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Ambiance

(Fair) 2 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Perhaps a bit too hapening and too hip with a youngish and lively bar crowd, Central tends to take itself a little too seriously. Although the menu is somewhat limited and sounds fairly ordinary, everything I've tried here has a unique twist and is surprisingly good. Including an affordable, but excellent wine list. Some tables are smack up against the open kitchen and can be either a ball, or a disaster, depending upon your mood and situation."

Dined on 5/10/2013

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Review 22 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Good) 3 / 5

check your bill

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/30/2013

Food

(Good) 3 / 5

Service

(Fair) 2 / 5

Ambiance

(Good) 3 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Food was good but experience tarnished because service was SLOW and waiter then charged someone else's bill to our cards-- which was nearly twice our bill. My dining companion wasn't paying attention and just signed. Fortunately I recalled we had paid for our drinks at the bar and caught the mistake. Waiter not very apologetic. I usually recommend this place in the neighborhood but will think twice."

Dined on 5/30/2013

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Review 23 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Late night

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 6/01/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Poor) 1 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Moderate

"Food was amazing despite eating at 10pm. Most places the quality of food goes down the later it is but it didn't. The food tasted phenomenal and the presentation was still beautiful.

Only bad part of experience...Our waitress was not attentive to us, and left mid-shift without even telling us. Then the next waiter had an attitude and clearly didn't want to serve us. Not rude but definitely didn't make for a pleasant experience considering the amount of money we spent."

Dined on 6/01/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, notable wine list, hot spot

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Review 24 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

16 yr Old's Special Birthday Dinner

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/31/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Soft shell crab special!! Yum. Fried chicken? Excellent. Fries cooked in Duck Fat? Could anything be better? Banana Split? Beautiful to the eye, pleasing to the palate."

Dined on 5/31/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, scenic view, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion, kid-friendly

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Review 25 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Tasty lunch and non alcoholic drink

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 10/05/2012

Food

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Service

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Moderate

"Fresh ingredients and menu along with delightful options for non alcoholic beverages make this a great lunch spot."

Dined on 10/05/2012

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups

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Review 26 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/25/2013

Food

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Afordable good food. Good for family or group outings."

Dined on 5/25/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups

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Review 27 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The Echelon of Great Dining Is Here

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/25/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Moderate

"This was a phenomenal dining experience that will forever be a memory of DC for me and my family. Everything from the food, service, and atmosphere was amazing and exceeded all of my expectations. The rib eye I ate was tender and paired so well with the mushroom cream sauce. The general manager David was helpful at suggesting a great bottle red wine to pair with my dish. And my Kit Kat bar dessert had a splendid crunch and combined sweetness. Central has set the standard, in fact defined the echelon, for everything you should expect from contemporary American cuisine. It's no wonder they are a James Beard award recipient, and they have demonstrated a superb reputation for offering the best of the best."

Dined on 5/25/2013

Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion

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Review 28 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

A great spot!

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/25/2013

Food

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Service

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Ambiance

(Good) 3 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Fantastic food, great service. Recommended by a friend, pricey but worth it. Good wine list. Sea bass & scallops were very good."

Dined on 5/25/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups

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Review 29 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Always great, wish they had brunch

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/24/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Always great, still wish they had brunch."

Dined on 5/24/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion

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Review 30 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Fair) 2 / 5

Disappointed in service

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/22/2013

Food

(Good) 3 / 5

Service

(Poor) 1 / 5

Ambiance

(Good) 3 / 5

Noise Level

Moderate

"This is a great spot for a business lunch and offers a fabulous menu. However, I had a person with a special dietary need - nothing out of the ordinary - two eggs poached, two slices of tomato and slice of bread. The waiter balked, then said the kitchen was too busy and was then shamed into convincing the kitchen to make up the request. Bad form and it was not a full house. Very disappointing to hear we should just order off the menu."

Dined on 5/22/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies

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Review 31 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Wonderful food and cervice

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/22/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"I went to Central for my birthday and had a wonderful time. The food was delicious and the service fabulous. The chicken liver foie gras was to die for."

Dined on 5/22/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, special occasion

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Review 32 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Central Never Disappoints

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/21/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Moderate

"Central is a restaurant I try to frequent. My friend and I shared the chicken nugget appetizer. Scrumptuous! That started us off nicely. A crab cake sandwich (no filler) and the day's special PBLT (pork belly) were very well prepared and tasty. Of course, the frites were wonderful and my guest's request for ketchup was quickly met with a smile. Shared desert was pistachio ice cream and various flavors of macaron, all handmade. Our server was friendly, polite and helpful. The restaurant has very clean lines and comfortable seating. The food is always top notch and the wines are very reasonably priced. A bottle of Vosne-Romanee accompanied everything beautifully and the coffee service rounded out another lunch at Central to remember."

Dined on 5/21/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion

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Review 33 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Dinner with the nieces and nephew

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/20/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Dining at Central is an experience in delicious food expertly prepared by a Michel Richard trained staff. If you appreciate fresh ingredients, creative interpretations and delightful surprises, this is the dining experience for you. My dining companions are know and appreciate food well prepared and presented. We started with the cheese gouches and drinks.. The wine list provided a array of wines with price points within reason. Our entrees included soft shell crab with red pepper coulis, roasted beet salad, tuna burger and mussels. The most impressive and tasty entree was the roasted chicken. I would go back and order that again and again and again."

Dined on 5/20/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, hot spot, great for lunch

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Review 34 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Exciting Foodie Place

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/19/2013

Food

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Service

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Ambiance

(Good) 3 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"The menu was pretty comprehensive - lots of choices. Not Cheesecake Factory crazy comprehensive, but appropriately comprehensive. The food was well served and prepared. Our only complaints - 1. We ordered too much and could not enjoy the desserts and 2. The waiter did not know the wine list."

Dined on 5/19/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot

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Review 35 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/18/2013

Food

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Service

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Ambiance

(Fair) 2 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Really enjoyed the food here! the fried chicken was juicy, crispy and delicious - mashed potatoes went well and the frisée salad that came with was perfectly dressed. My husbands steak au poivre was a bit rare for medium rare but he said it had great flavor and the cooked onions went perfectly. We had the cheese puffs for an app and they were fluffy, cheesy and lite. The bread is amazing here -crusty yet soft! The waiter was very friendly although we did lose him a couple of times, but I think that it was the result of a very busy Saturday night. The only downside to the restaurant is the noise level. It is very loud, although we were not shouting at each other, we did have to speak very loudy. This not a place to go for an intimate dinner."

Dined on 5/18/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot

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Review 36 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Georgetown Graduation

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/17/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"My son graduated from Georgetown University in 2013, so when I got to there, I told the hostess and he had a special little surpise for him. It was awesome and we will never forget our families special dinner in DC! Kudos!!! Awesome Place!"

Dined on 5/17/2013

Special Features: special occasion

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Review 37 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

So good!

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/12/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Good) 3 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"I took my mother here for lunch to celebrate Mother's Day. Our experience was amazing and the food was fabulous! I highly recommend."

Dined on 5/12/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion

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Review 38 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Again

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/15/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Moderate

"Having dined here about 4 times in the past 1 1/2 years we have to say Central is one of our favorite restaurants anywhere. The food is exceptionally prepared with creatively designed taste combinations. This time, the service was simply outstanding as our waiter brought his enthusiasm and expansive knowledge appropriately into our dining experience. Central gave us an exceptional evening for an important meeting with good friends."

Dined on 5/15/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

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Review 39 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Perfect If Not for the Noise

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/11/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"My mom and I don't come to DC without a dinner at Central. It's become a favorite destination and it never disappoints. We both wish it were a tad less noisy -- the Knicks on the tv at the bar didn't help matters -- but that would never deter us from coming. Keep up the delicious work!"

Dined on 5/11/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion

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Review 40 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Super yum

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 4/06/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Where to go when Citronelle is closed. Girls in cute attire, guys in suit jackets. There is quite a mix of folks here, and everyone seems loud, boisterous, and having a great time. Food is fantastic. I love the braised short ribs and cumin carrots the best. It's tender and the carrots remind me of frito chili pie, lol."

Dined on 4/06/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion

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Review 41 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Loved it

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/10/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Its pretty loud so maybe not the most romantic setting.
Other than that awesome! Service was spectacular, Food was superb!"

Dined on 5/10/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

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Review 42 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Good) 3 / 5

still good but has lost its edge

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/11/2013

Food

(Good) 3 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"I've been to Central roughly once a year over the past 5/6 years, and the last two visits show the shine coming off the food. Everything used to be perfect, now it's fine.

This time i had the leek and bacon tart and the 48 hour short ribs. The topping on the tart was great, but the shell was a little burnt on the bottom but doughy on top. The ribs, which used to be sous vide, were cooked well done and were bland inside. Outside they had a strange glaze with a hint of Asian spice, and there wasn't the delicious sauce you'd expect if they had been conventionally braised."

Dined on 5/11/2013

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Review 43 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Good) 3 / 5

noisy but tolerable

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/11/2013

Food

(Good) 3 / 5

Service

(Good) 3 / 5

Ambiance

(Good) 3 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"Food and service were fine but the noise level is a hindrance to really enjoy the food"

Dined on 5/11/2013

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Review 44 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great food, but too loud

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/10/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Ambiance

(Good) 3 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"The hanger steak was excellent, and my wife reported that the sea bass was exceptional. The wine list was extensive, and the restaurant was nicely decorated. All in all, I would say that this is a great place to have a special dinner - except for the noise level. It was impossible to have a quiet conversation. If you're looking for a fun "hopping" place, this is it. For a nice romantic dinner with your significant other - keep looking."

Dined on 5/10/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list

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Review 45 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Very Good) 4 / 5

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/02/2013

Food

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Service

(Good) 3 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Moderate

"Excellent prix fix theatre menu at a decent price!"

Dined on 5/02/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, special occasion

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Review 46 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food at a national meeting

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/06/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"I am local but brought friends from Boston to Central. We all loved it."

Dined on 5/06/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

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Review 47 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A+ on The Salad Benchmark

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/06/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Energetic

"When restaurants make a perfect salad--greens all immaculately fresh and none sagging or wilted; just the right amount of dressing/vinaigrette; leaves perfectly dried and tossed so each piece presents the flavor of the dressing which itself is delicious-- then you know there is great care going into every dish. The gougeres are a great accompaniment to cocktails. Finally theirs is one of the best bearnaises you will find with intense flavor and thick enough to stay on the piece of meat as opposed to dissolving into the plate as so many others do. I just wish I had remembered that many entrees come with a bowl of salad, and I wouldn't have ordered a salad first course, but the 2 different types of salad were both wonderful."

Dined on 5/06/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot

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Review 48 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Fair) 2 / 5

Don't order the scallops

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/05/2013

Food

(Good) 3 / 5

Service

(Fair) 2 / 5

Ambiance

(Good) 3 / 5

Noise Level

Moderate

"They were dry and the sauce was strangely sweet. Mussels were good and fries and bread were great. Service was a bit brusque but ok. I'd still recommend the restaurant based on other meals. But if it were just this past experience, I wouldn't."

Dined on 5/05/2013

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Review 49 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Top Notch

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/04/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noise Level

Moderate

"Great Service and food with a very friendly and attentive staff.
Thank You!"

Dined on 5/04/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find

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Review 50 for Central Michel Richard

Overall rating

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Love, Love, Love!

OpenTable Diner

Dined on 5/04/2013

Food

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance

(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Noise Level

Moderate

"I was lured by all the reviews and pictures of the food. My waitor was awesome and attentive. Explained everything to me and gave great suggestions. The food was lovely. Probably the best (American) restaurant I've had in a while. Definite go again!"

Dined on 5/04/2013

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion

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