Overview: Bodega

Initial thoughts:

• Design and Decor:  Spanish-themed décor
• Food:  Traditional Spanish Cuisine

• Drinks: Great Sangria and wine
• Service:  Exceptional.  Our server was super knowledgeable and made great recommendations.
• Would I go back?  Yes.

Asparagus Special

This cute Georgetown spot offers intimate patio seating.  You'll love it with the nice fall weather.  If you want a taste of traditional Spanish cuisine, it’s hard to find a better pick than paella. Upon our server's recommendation, we opted for the seafood paella with squid ink.  It’s a savory dish that is synonymous with Spanish culture, as well as tradition. The best part is the leftovers the next day.  The flavors develop overnight and taste amazing!

 "We take our paella seriously,” says Ryan Fichter, Executive Chef of Bodega Spanish Tapas and Lounge and Thunder Burger. “It’s important to us that we bring the taste of this special traditional dish of Spain to the people of the Washington DC area. It’s one of our signature dishes, and we do it well.”

Before our paella arrived, we dove into some of the fabulous tapas.  Make sure to try the sizzling Gambas al Ajillo.   

I loved the Bistek a la Parrilla.

We were pretty stuffed after the paella, but our server said we couldn't leave without getting a taste of the flan.  He was right!  It has to be the best in town. 

Also, don't miss their series of “Flamenco Thursday” shows. The shows, which begin at 10:45 p.m. each Thursday, feature the traditional Spanish sounds of flamenco guitarist Ricardo Marlow, and the authentic voice of Hector Jose Marquez. Diners can enjoy a variety of tapas prior to the show.

Bodega took me back to the nights of my honeymoon in Spain.  The food is authentic and delicious.  If you haven't been there already, stop in to give it a try!

Bodega, located at 3116 M St. NW, offers a happy hour, a weekend brunch and patio seating during nice weather, and serves lunch and dinner daily. They also offer private party hosting for parties up to 50 people, which can be held in the “Matador Lounge,” the bar, or the patio. The private party areas have an exclusive sound system and a full bar, and offer food selections from a special private-event menu. The restaurant chooses one lucky Facebook fan per month to win a $50 gift certificate for dining. For more information on Bodega, visit www.bodegadc.com.