Image: Shrimp “Ceviche” and Tartelette aux Tomates Confites.
Last Updated: October 2022
Current Status: Open for dine-in with indoor and covered outdoor seating. They also offer take-out and delivery.
Overview:
La Piquette is a younger sibling to the very good, old school spot Bistro Lepic. The menu, décor, and staff, while not as settled-in as Lepic, are classic French bistro in approach. This includes the guiding hand of the former chef to the French Ambassador. The printed menu lists a slew of traditional dishes including many lighter seafood choices, though some of them may be crossed out as the night progresses. On our visits that meant duck a l’orange was decadent and the seafood stew bountiful. We agree with Rick (Eats DC) on the steak frites, that he describes as “a nice, ropy steak and terrific shoestring fries.” The desserts reliably French.
The clientele is clearly drawn from the surrounding blocks, which can fill up the restaurant on any given night. The prices are also consistent with a nice neighborhood spot. On the other hand, you should also probably brace for a relaxing pace to the meal. Servers might disappear, courses might take more than a few extra minutes to arrive. Pace your drinking accordingly because the glass you chose to pair with the mains may not survive until their arrival.
The wine list is decent and French. There is a bar area with a few stools to pull up under a large chalk-board listing the cocktail options, which also lean classic: French 75, Negroni, Sidecar. On the same Cathedral neighborhood side-street as 2 Amys, there is no close Metro stop, but there is plentiful parking in the residential streets behind. We think it is a good, solid choice if you are up this way.
Other guidance: It is neighborhood casual with dress ranging from shorts to professionals in business attire meeting after work. The menu is not short and includes some vegetable dishes, so both vegetarians and GF can find options, but keep in mind it is classic French. The Post accessibility guidance: No barriers at entrance; bar seating involves stairs; ADA-compliant restroom.
Summary:
Cuisine: French
Neighborhood: Upper NW
Address: 3714 Macomb St NW, Washington, DC 20016
Website: http://www.lapiquettedc.com/
Reservations: Opentable
Other Critics/Voices:
Washington Post: 2022 Fall Dining Guide. A pandemic era visit to 3 French Spots. 2.5 Stars in 2019 and in Fall Dining Guide). 2 stars in 2017 and Spring Dining Guide. (you can almost feel him rooting for his spot).
Washingtonian: Top 100: #81 in 2018; Profile of long-time chef Francis Layrle
Rick Eats DC: Steak Frites here was a best dish of 2021 for him.