Centrolina

"Nestled in the alleyway of posh CityCenterDC, chef Amy Brandwein’s Italian mainstay for seasonal pastas and spritzes offers alfresco seating." - Tierney Plumb, Abi Newhouse

"Newly introduced on Friday, March 7, seven-time James Beard nominee chef Amy Brandwein is serving a eight-course Stela menu ($175 a person, with $125 optional wine pairing) focused on seasonal mid-Atlantic ingredients every Friday at 7 p.m. The tasting menu’s name means “stem” in Italian, referring to growth as the restaurant celebrates its upcoming 10-year anniversary. The menu celebrate Brandwein’s mantra of “simple is exquisite,” with fundamental Italian dishes. Reservations are via the website." - Tierney Plumb, Emily Venezky

"Celebrate Galentine’s Day with a fun communal dining experience revolved around a five-course tasting menu from head chef Amy Brandwein in Centrolina’s private salon. Dishes reflect the mid-Atlantic’s current bounty coupled with flashes of Italian flare. Dinner is $125 a person with an optional wine pairing for $65 per person. Limited seating available and reservations can be made here." - Vinciane Ngomsi

"James Beard-nominated chef Amy Brandwein is well known for her regional Italian fare made with mid-Atlantic ingredients. Brandwein keeps her rotating menu fresh by putting seasonal spins on traditional Italian plates. Dine indoors or out or order online for takeout, or via Caviar and Tock for delivery. Stock up on pantry items from the attached market while you are at it." - Tierney Plumb, Mekita Rivas

"Nearly a decade in, chef Amy Brandwein’s polished osteria continues to shine in CityCenter DC. The five-time James Beard Award finalist goes all in on seasonal ingredients to construct a frequently changing Italian menu; for August, that currently includes melon-flanked snapper sashimi; peachy gazpacho; pristine pastas pumped up with purple broccoli and eggplant ragu; wood-fired mains like halibut and chanterelle mushrooms, lamb rib-eye, and pancetta-wrapped rabbit; and memorable desserts like an almond cake with fresh citrus, yuzu, and white chocolate. Tonari alum Mary Mendoza is the newly named executive pastry chef at both Centrolina and Piccolina, Brandwein’s all-day sibling cafe across the street." - Tierney Plumb, Emily Venezky