On the train from New York to Washington DC, we scour Yelp and bookmark some places to try upon reaching our destination. After my conference, I have just enough time to visit a handful of places before leaving, one of which is Farmers Fishers Bakers. The weather is crisp and cool, so after we disembark the Circulator bus at Lincoln Memorial, we walk the two miles along the scenic waterfront to The Washington Harbour in Georgetown.
While looking at Yelp, I am convinced it is a food hall of sorts, but upon entering, I realize it is one restaurant with several “rooms” offering an eclectic menu which I may have misconstrued as a myriad of restaurants in one space.
While there are many things we want to try – and I am hungry after the two mile walk – I am also mindful there is a lobster roll calling my name about half a mile away. So with that in mind, we order a few dishes and plan on ending the evening at Luke’s Lobster.
After much deliberation, we choose Serrano Jack ($9) crudo with slices of raw white fish is paired with orange supreme slices, cilantro and serrano slices. The marinade is a tad sweet, but marries well with the heat from the chile.
Watermelon Caprese Carpaccio ($8) arrives with paper thin slices of heirloom tomatoes and watermelon and creamy house-made ricotta cheese. Bits of basil adds brightness to the already refreshing nature of this dish. It is immensely pleasant on the palate.
I am intrigued by Bread & Broths ($8) presented on a tray with a little skillet of roasted whole garlic cloves, shanty butter, and romesco. A pot of broth is then poured into the shanty butter and romesco to create a concoction to dip the grilled bread in. We love both the garlic cloves and shanty butter, however, the romesco is incredibly bland. Even after a sprinkling of salt and pepper, it isn’t much better.
Mussel Pot ($16) – and there are eight to choose from – is a must if you’re a fan of mussels. We choose the coconut curry and cucumber option with a decadent coconut curry broth dotted with slices of pickled cucumber. Initially, I am a little skeptical about the curry and cucumber combination, but the acidity pairs well with the rich, robust flavors of the curry. We end up eating the sauce with a spoon because it’s THAT good!
The menu seems discombobulated at first glance with selections that don’t seem cohesive what so ever. I must admit I am initially confused, but then, decide to go with the flow. The result is a unique dining experience that I, as a diner, am able to tweak depending on my mood at that moment. Even though we predominantly stick to seafood, the menu also consists of burgers, pizzas, sushi, salads and more.
We then walk half a mile away to Luke’s Lobster and order a lobster roll ($16.50) to try.
The buttery brioche bun is filled with plump meaty chunks of lobster, so sweet and well worth the price.
Farmers Fishers Bakers
The Washington Harbour
3000 K St NW
Washington, DC 20007
Luke’s Lobster
1211 Potomac St NW
Washington, DC 20007
Tel: 202-333-4863
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