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Friday, 1 November 2013

Ben's Next Door - Washington, DC


RETURN? Yes
                                                                      Oh my...

This charming little restaurant with the sepia glow caught my eye as a friend and I were searching for a cozy place to dine on a Monday evening.

The jazzlike vibe, high wooden stools, warm atmosphere, and sunburnt yellow lighting was immediately welcoming and lured us away from the autumn chill.

Taking a seat, my friend, ever-vigilant for deals of every type, noticed that the chicken and waffles plate is only $10 on Monday nights, rather than the regular $14. Excited by the deal and having never tried the dish before, we went for it.

It was a delightful dish, though I'm sure it could have been better. The chicken itself was moist and flavorful, but it was perhaps a bit too salty. The batter wasn't quite as dense and crunchy as I would like, but was instead crispy, and shattered under each bite. It felt as though the crispiness was developed with sodium bicarbonate, and therefore it didn't leave the most pleasant aftertaste. The decently-sized waffle portion was tasty, fluffy, and enjoyable. The meal came with maple syrup for the waffles and (I assume) the chicken. Rather than the syrup, I would have appreciated a thick, savory sauce (perhaps a white gravy?) to pair with the chicken and waffles, which would have taken the dish from a confused sweet breakfast item to an actual evening meal.

All in all, however, the ambiance was enjoyable, the food was alright, and the staff was friendly.

ADDRESS: 1211 U St NW  Washington, DC

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