In the business world, you are where you eat. And whether you have full-time or virtual office space, eventually you will have to step outside your work zone and engage in that ever present business staple: the power lunch. Esquire's Eat Like a Man blog says "Washington is a business-lunch city, and they know how to turn out an excellent meal in whatever time you have available." Keeping this in mind, here are a few places that consistently top the District's best lunch restaurants lists.
- Charlie Palmer Steak: This Connecticut Avenue home-away-from-home for Washington power players is all about the beef, even during lunch.
- The Oval Room: With contemporary decor only steps away from the White House, this American restaurant is just as famous for its patio seating as it is for its food.
- Central Michel Richard: Offering a French take on American food, this downtown eatery is known for re-imagined classics like its bucket of fried chicken.
- CityZen: One of Gayot's 2011 best hotel restaurants in the U.S., good service rules here and the staff ensures correct placement of your glass and flatware while you enjoy a seven course menu.
- The Prime Rib: A posh steakhouse best known for its namesake entree, this establishment has been open since 1976 and still requires a jacket and tie.