Restaurants near Riggs Lasalle Recreation Center

My wife and I celebrated her birthday there, it was phenomenal. It began with our waitress Bolade who wad magnificent and extended to everyone we met. It extended all the way up to the general manager Kerry Macphail, who came out to personally greet and acknowledge us on this momentous occasion. The ambiance and food quality are exceptional and add to the refinement and elegance of the entire experience. For a great meal, wonderful company and a truly memorable experience (aside from being the lucky husband), you must check out La Grande Boucherie, it is unforgettable.

We enjoyed it so much!! I had the scallops - they were world class. Absolutely perfect. There were three good sized sea scallops and a delicious raita like sauce. I also had the rice and lentil pilaf. It was soul-warming comfort food. We shared the hummus - I was concerned the chili oil would make it too spicy, but it was flavorful, not spicy. Other items included a halloumi flatbread, bone marrow fritter (I don’t remember the actual name), and a stewed eggplant and tomato dish. The meal was started with wonderful fresh bread and an olive oil/balsamic dip. We shared the chocolate Turkish coffee cake for dessert. Do not leave without this cake!! We also had Turkish coffee. The food and the service was all flawless. We had more than we could eat - and the total was $100. Great value for a world class dining experience. We can’t wait to come back next time we are in DC.

Founding Fathers DC is a fantastic spot for those craving Southern-inspired cuisine. The menu offers hearty options for lunch and dinner, showcasing classic dishes with bold flavors. For breakfast enthusiasts, the selection is just as impressive, featuring fluffy biscuits, indulgent beignets, waffles, and decadent French toast. We visited during brunch and decided to explore the heavier lunch menu. Every dish was perfectly executed, balancing rich Southern flavors with refined presentation. A standout moment of our meal was dessert — the vanilla bean cheesecake was divine, with a creamy texture and just the right hint of sweetness. It’s a must-try! A word of advice: make a reservation. The restaurant’s popularity means long lines, especially during peak hours. Founding Fathers DC is a delightful blend of Southern charm and culinary excellence, and it’s well worth the visit!

The whole experience was fabulous. We made a reservation for nine and were seated promptly upon arrival by the wonderful hostesses. Our server was excellent, the drinks were amazing, and the FOOD. I literally cannot gush enough about the food. I got the ribeye and it was cooked flawlessly. Never understood what “melt in your mouth” was supposed to mean with steak until I bit into the most perfect bite of meat in the world. Juicy, flavorful, and paired with perfectly cooked kale and potatoes. I could have eaten three of them and wouldn’t have regretted a thing. There was no room for dessert on this visit, but I will DEFINITELY be back.

Such a beautiful restaurant with all of the beautiful woodwork and art. Very comforting to eat there. The service and food is great. My waitress actually helped me find my phone after i left it and someone turned it in. The Bronzino was delicious.