Central Michel Richard

It was one of the best casual to fine dining dinners we've had in some time. We are not only going to come back but we can't wait to. At first, the initial walk in is a little underwhelming with maybe some questionable art of plates at the front desk and restaurant seemed very small perhaps will be cramped. But not at all once we were seated. Very cosy and comfortable to enjoy sitting down and socializing. We had every stage of the dinner from apps to desert and every bit was absolutely delicious. The Napoleon surprised us so pleasantly that my wife wants me to pick up on the way home regularly now. I've walked past this restaurant so many times over the years and so glad we finally sat down to enjoy all the wonderful courses of dinner we've had. Also, thank you for not making such a strong onion soup as is the case in most places — it is just right.

Great food in a very nice environment. Even though the restaurant was pretty full, it was quiet enough for a nice conversation over dinner.

Highlights: Duck Confit special, oysters, paté du campagne, bok choy red curry, chicken schnitzel, margaritas. Our server was extremely knowledgeable and perfectly attentive and unobtrusive.

To start with very few restaurants get five stars from me. But I do try to give readers a solid context of my review. I had asked for a quiet table. They got it spot on - so we were in the far back in a small area of maybe six tables of two. Perfect! We were there prior to the theatre and it was quiet and calm. So while some reviewers have complained about noise it was perfect for us. Frankly knowing Central has a space like this I would always ask to be seated there. The food was good though not necessarily amazing. It is fine for pre-theatre, a weekly date night or a mid-week meal, but if you wanted something really special the old magic, once held in this kitchen, is not quite as it was some years ago. That said the food was well executed and served without waiting, and wasting away, under a heat lamp. I would definitely eat there again. I had considered Cafe Fiorello for a pre-theatre dinner but their OpenTable reviews are peppered with issues about service. I find poor service can ruin an entire evening and if you need to leave at a certain time, say to make the curtain for the theatre, poor service resulting in a late meal will ruin the evening. Here Central Michel Richard excelled - they provided wonderful service. We waited perhaps a few minutes longer than I would liked for our server to take our order, but again we were in the far back. Once our order was taken however everything went smoothly. Definitely a place to remember prior to the theatre.

I have 3 words: amazing, amazing, amazing! Onion soup perfect, the ahi tuna burger an unexpected, nice surprise and the tartar sauce of the fish and chips one of the best ever. Our server, she was super helpful, kind with a really nice smile. Thanks for the experience. Definitely, we are coming back!

Our food was delicious and Emily, our server, was exceptional. She was available when we needed her, but did not hover. I had the tuna sandwich, and it was amazing. As were the green beans. Also, we were in a nice, comfortable corner where we could enjoy our conversation.

Our Server was excellent! We were going to a show so she made sure that everything came out on time. The food was absolutely delicious and would definitely come back. Highly recommend.

Always a favorite. Only note is that the frisée salad is better when the shallot mince is fine. Too big, and the flavor can overpower.

An unforgettable meal! The steak was, without a doubt, one of the best I've ever had—perfectly cooked (medium rare), incredibly juicy, and packed with flavor. An absolute must-order. I can't wait to come back!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Overall ok. Has fallen off over the years. Also the place is pretty empty and depressing. Menu items are stale and could use a refresh. Food is well prepared and good, but not great. A shell of its former self.

Wow! I was extremely impressed with everything about this restaurant. The Chicken nuggets were the best I ever had, and the prime burger and fries was outstanding. Since the entrees were so spectacular we got desert which was well worth it. Vanilla Ice Cream with a special request of chocolate syrup. Also, the chocolate bar with hazel nut desert was recommended by our attendant and it was well worth it. Well done, Chefs! The staff went over and above the call of duty to make sure our meal was very pleasant. I wanted a 'root beer' and the waiter found a bottle of the best root beer I ever drank. The staff were so very friendly and easy going while being very helpful and attentive. The restaurant both outside and inside was clean and very nicely decorated with a great environment. This was definitely the most delicious food I've found while visiting Washington DC area along with the best dining environment and staff. Well done, Owner/managers. Highly recommended!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Our waiter Moises was very attentive and provided excellent service. The food was very good. Recommended.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Wow! I was extremely impressed with everything about this restaurant. The Chicken nuggets were the best I ever had, and the prime burger and fries were outstanding. Since the entrees were so spectacular, we got desser,t which was well worth it—Vanilla Ice Cream with a special request of chocolate syrup. Also, the chocolate bar with hazelnut desert was recommended by our attendant, and it was well worth it. Well done, Chefs! The staff went over and above the call of duty to make sure our meal was very pleasant. I wanted a 'root beer' and the waiter found a bottle of the best root beer I ever drank. The staff were so very friendly and easy-going while being very helpful and attentive. The restaurant both outside and inside was clean and very nicely decorated with a great environment. This was definitely the most delicious food I've found while visiting the Washington DC area, along with the best dining environment and staff. Well done, Owner/managers. Highly recommended!

Restaurant was pretty loud with decor that had all the charm of a hotel restaurant. Food was just ok, although service was excellent.

The four of us had dinner at Central prior to our show at the Warner Theatre. We sat near the open kitchen and enjoyed watching the chefs and servers in action. The food was tasty, portions were large, and the price was reasonable. The restaurant location is ideal - a five minute walk from the metro station and a five minute walk to the theater.