Chef Danny Chevez started his career as a line cook at Art & Soul (415 New Jersey Avenue NW) under the restaurant’s namesake Art Smith. And now, so many years later, he’s back, and this time at the helm of the restaurant in the (formerly Liaison) Yotel Hotel on Capitol Hill.
“Guests are getting a coastal tour,” says Chavez, of his menu that, instead of sophisticated southern delights, now features seasonal, locally sourced dishes from Chesapeake Bay watershed communities as well as other modern-American fare.
Some of the standout favorites include appetizers like Roasted Mushrooms with Focaccia and Pan Seared Octopus and signature entrées featuring house-made spring Spaghetti, Adobo Rub Pork Belly, and Roasted Chicken Roulade. Plus, no meal is complete without an exquisite dessert, such as Art & Soul's Rhubarb & Apple Crisp, Tres Leches Panna Cotta or Strawberry Bread Pudding, all inspired by the flavors of the season.
But it’s not just the Chef and his all-new menu that has changed at Art & Soul. The restaurant itself has undergone a complete transformation. Its new design is also a nod to the Chesapeake, with interior blue hues accented with some whimsical neon artwork.
Art & Soul is a large space — 5,100 square feet — that is now semi-divided into three private indoor dining rooms and an elongated bar. But while the updated interior has that beautiful Bay feeling, we’re still partial to the patio, a prime year-round location to enjoy a meal, people-watch, and bask in the singular sight of the U.S. Capital Dome
Art & Soul is ready to welcome diners for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and an extensive Saturday and Sunday brunch.