Jaleo

Chef José Andrés has opened locations of this tapas hangout from Las Vegas to Chicago to Dubai, but it all started here inside the Beltway. Unafraid of color and pattern, the expansive interior is a riot of glass, tile, hardwood and art, and the vibe is never dull or low energy.
Sangria, vermouth and sherry make for wise starts before digging in to three tasting menus of Spanish favorites including the classics, Jaleo's Experience or José’s Way. Start with marinated olives and aged Manchego cheese and work your way toward their fresh seafood, like their calamares and su tinta, or squid with rice and a squid ink sauce. Chicken fritters are noteworthy, as are bigger plates like paella Valenciana with rabbit; gazpacho with goat cheese; and grilled pork sausage with white beans.