First Taste: Bandolero

Loud, dark and tasty bites...  Chef Mike Isabella opened Bandolero in the heart of Georgetown (3241 M St. NW) last week. Capital Cooking recently got an inside look at the new establishment.

Lamb Sopes

Must-Try Menu Items

A few highlights:  the sweet and spicy lamb sopes, the “fish stick taco” made from mahi mahi crusted in crushed tortilla chips, and the blue crab taquitos.

Bottoms Up

Sam Babcock mixed up some super delicious tequila and mezcal cocktails.  My favorite was the Jesus Malverde with mezcal, agave, cucumber, lime and cilantro.  The refreshing flavor is perfect for summer.  

Jesus Malverde

A close second was the El Dorado (City of Gold) with reposado tequila, cardamaro, St. Germain, 5-spice simple syrup and lemon.  

You'll surely have to try one of Bandolero's signature margaritas on tap. 

 

The Space

The two-level, 5,000 square foot space features myriad antique fixtures, rich copper, and warm wood accents. “Day of the Dead” inspired the combination of loud, dark and cold elements to create a distinctive atmosphere.

The first floor seats more than 100, including an 18-seat bar front, 20 seats for bar dining, and 10 seats at a cozy chef’s table adjacent to the open kitchen. The second floor seats 68.

Reservations are now available through CityEats for dinner, and walk-ins are always welcome. In the coming months, Bandolero will also serve weekend brunch and weekday lunch. 

Photos by Emily Clack