(deandeluca.com) – Georgetown neighborhood, Washington, DC

How I heard of this place: When my sister lived in the greater DC metropolitan area, we frequented the cafes, coffee shops and specialty stores along the cobbled streets of Georgetown. Dean & Deluca was one of our favorite spots to grab a picnic-style lunch, enjoyed in their covered outdoor patio or while walking along M Street.

Type of cuisine: “Over its history, DEAN & DELUCA has earned a reputation as an icon of New York City culture and lifestyle. Revered as a hub for the discovery of new culinary trends and little known culinary traditions, DEAN & DELUCA is the only brand that has the cultural status and global brand awareness to be the defining brand in gourmet food retail around the world.”

Ambiance: “The original DEAN & DELUCA opened for business in September 1977 in SoHo, then an edgy artist and warehouse district in lower Manhattan, at the corner of Prince and Greene streets. The original store was designed to evoke a turn of the century food department, replete with ceiling fans spinning over a vast array of products that lined the soaring white walls of this enchanted emporium.  It was an instant success; quickly overflowing with food, housewares and customers. On display was a staggering variety of produce and foodstuffs, including many never previously sold in the United States.”

What I ordered: Unable to make any one decision, my good friend, Hoda and I decided to share our options, family-style. We started with the Risotto Cake ($8), followed by the Wild Rice Pilaf ($9.44), and the Roasted Balsamic Button Mushrooms & Pearl Onions ($10.40), rounding it out with a small container of Guacamole ($3.78).

What I loved: The roasted seasonal baby vegetables make my mouth water, even now! The guacamole with its fresh lime juice, abundance of chunky avocado and salt galore perfectly complemented the nutty flavors and mouth-tiring chewing of the wild rice.

Why I loved it: Everyone is happy when she can order anything she wants, while enjoying her outdoor picnic in winter coats, scarves, and gloves with a roomful of amazing and talented women.  

Cost: High (Prices based on weight of items selected)