Spring Dining at the Blue Duck Tavern

By:  Jennifer Duff
Capital Cooking Contributor

Spring is in the air and you know what that means... al fresco dining with fresh, light ingredients that highlight the best of what's in season (like peas and asparagus, just to name a few!).  There is a short window of time in DC to enjoy dining outside before the heat and humidity of the summer sets in.  Which is why now is the perfect time to head over to the Blue Duck Tavern to enjoy their spacious  outdoor terrace while sampling refreshing cocktails and new spring menu items.

Chef Sebastien Archambault and Chef de Cuisine John Melfi have crafted creative American cuisine seasonal menu items that focus on the region's freshest ingredients, such as lamb, peas, wagyu beef, and carrots.  These ingredients are sourced from local farms and co-ops in the DC area and truly represent thoughtful sourcing to ensure a sustainable and delicious dining experience. 

For a light and citrus flavored bite, the Baby Carrot Salad is a superb spring dish.  Featuring both fresh and roasted carrots accompanied with fennel, oranges, and orange olive oil croutons, this salad is both healthy and full of flavor.

The protein-rich Crispy Skin Salmon served with sorrel cream and cucumber smoked trout roe is flaky and absolutely delicious with a bright, savory cream sauce.  Paired with the Coddled Egg, it is a beautiful plating with perfect balance.  The freshness of the egg and vegetables truly "popped" in your mouth. 

The Rack of Lamb with garlic confit and rosemary jus is an outstanding seasonal meat dish that is succulent and tender, with a fantastic finish from the jus.  A perfect accompaniment with the lamb is the Spring Green Asparagus with sabayon and citrus crumble.  The citrus flavor and airy texture of the sabayon is a wonderful flavor-enhancer for the crunchy asparagus.

Sweet and delicious seasonal fruits are featured in the desserts at Blue Duck Tavern, including a blueberry tart, a raspberry crumble and a peach pastry.  My favorite treat is the house-made peppermint ice cream, sweet and creamy with a bright, minty finish. 

So what are you waiting for?  Dine al fresco at Blue Duck Tavern and treat yourself to their seasonal delights.  Our beautiful spring weather won't last long!