
Nightshade Noodle Bar
French · Lynn · $$$

French · Washington, DC · $$
Apéro DC is a Michelin‑recognized boutique restaurant and Wine Spectator award winner, celebrated for its refined French bistro fare and one of Washington’s most extensive wine lists. With an elegant yet playful spirit, Apéro offers guests a dining experience that balances luxury with warmth and whimsy. Led by rising star Chef Jenn Castaneda‑Jones, the kitchen presents French‑inspired menus that highlight seasonal ingredients and a rotating selection of sustainably farmed caviar. The beverage program, curated by Advanced Sommelier and Owner Elli Benchimol, showcases rare vintages, international wines, and a champagne collection that has earned national acclaim, and a Wine Spectator Best of Rating. Guests may indulge in full caviar service with traditional accoutrements, savor pizzelles and chips alongside a glass of champagne, share French‑inspired plates and entrées paired with rare bottles from Apéro’s cellar or delight in our martini service paired with oyster and caviar bites. Accolades aside, Apéro remains devoted to the essence of hospitality. “The best way to express how much you care is through acts of service,” says Benchimol. “Making people feel welcome, familiar, and at ease is what hospitality is about.”
“Every time I come here it delivers the next level of absolute perfection. Tonight we had champagne, martinis, deviled eggs with caviar, pâté, and the fromage trio. It was an anniversary so a super special evening and a beautiful time thanks to the outstanding service which was as exquisite as the food and the ambience. We will definitely return!”
“Love this gem in dc. 2nd time there and each time, service has been amazing. Great suggestions for novice caviar tasters, as well as their dinner menu. Also one of the best espresso martini’s I’ve ever had. I can’t wait to return! Special thank you to the people who served us on the beautiful patio tonight.”
“We did not want to leave this place! Rafael was am excellent greeting and took great care of us. The cocktails were well balanced and my glass of sancerre was one of my favorites. We also had the pâte and the gougeres. We liked the pate. It wasn’t the best i ever had but we enjoyed it. The gougeres were delicious though. We did not want to leave and would have stayed to try more but we had another reservation for dinner. We will be back!”
“I had a great experience here! All 3 meals were delicious - I loved how crispy the mushroom cigarettes were, which is one of their signature appetizers. I also loved how creamy the lobster and tomato bisque was and the pop of the twisted croissant. The beef bourguignon is by far the best one of I've had so far - the beef was super tender, and the vegetables and potato puree were seasoned beautifully. Definitely feels like taking a trip to France and a great please to enjoy modern, authentic French cuisine! And kudos to the team for the amazing service and dining experience!”
“An incredible dining experience we did for my girlfriend's birthday! 6 courses with matching wine or cocktail pairings was absolutely the right move, even if we could hardly move at the end. Would absolutely come back as they rotate the menu!”
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