Zola

Description:

• Zola acquired a new chef in spring 2007. Bryan Moscatello is committed to continuing his predecessor's bent for "straight ahead American" cuisine, while adding his own creative twists. Not sure how that translates exactly, but count on deliciousness: a simple mushroom crepe or grilled lamb sandwich at lunch; delicately roasted sea scallops with creamy parsnip purée, and an artichoke-and-goat-cheese tart or lobster "mac and cheese" at dinner, with such sweets as lemon chiffon pudding with raspberries for dessert. Zola is a cleverly designed restaurant, trading on its location next to the International Spy Museum for a decor that includes red-velvet booths, backlit panels of coded KGB documents, and a center-pivoted swinging wall/door that's like something straight out of the TV show Get Smart. Zola, in its superb downtown location, has become a popular place for the young and single to hang. Servers are friendly. A $30 pretheater menu, available nightly 5 to 7pm, offers great value.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2009