Whenever my sister visits me from New York, the one place she always wants to go to is Bardia’s New Orleans Cafe in Adams Morgan. There’s only so many meals one can fit into a weekend, so each meal decision is made with utmost care and consideration. Spreadsheets, charts, graphs and other highly sophisticated analysis tools are scrutinized, and heated battles (e.g. steel cage matches) are waged to fill each precious meal-spot. And yet, one spot, without question, is always reserved for Bardia’s New Orleans Cafe. The reason, to put it eloquently, in Paula Abdul’s own two words, is because New Orleans Cafe is “phe” and “nomenal.”

Atmosphere:  New Orleans Cafe is a cozy little restaurant in the middle of Adams Morgan.  It probably seats about 20 people, and in the summer, they open the charming large window that looks out into the street.  A ceiling fan lazily circles around, adding to that southern summer feeling.  It’s a great place to meet friends or to go on a casual date.

Service:  The service at New Orleans Cafe is warm and cozy, just like the restaurant itself.  Mr. Bardia is usually in the restaurant, and he has a knack for recognizing repeat customers.  He actually recognized me on my second visit, and gave us deee-licious beignets on the house.  This is a true neighborhood restaurant where the owner knows who you are and comes out to greet you, and sometimes gives you little treats as a special token of appreciation for your patronage.

Food:  I have actually been to the annual Jazz Festivals in New Orleans, and I have had many a gumbo from many a famous restaurant in the state that created gumbo.  However, the best gumbo I have ever had is the gumbo here at Bardia’s New Orleans Cafe.  Just put a spoonful of gumbo in your mouth and let it sit for a second like fine wine, and the flavors will start wafting through your mouth and tickle all of your senses.  If you want to order only a single dish at this restaurant, make sure to order the gumbo.

The restaurant also offers a variety of cajun dishes, including etouffes and po’boy sandwiches, and of course, freshly made beignets to end any meal on a satisfying sugary note.

Summary:  Excellent!  Excellent!  Excellent!  From the cozy atmosphere, to the warm service, affordable prices, and outstanding dishes, Bardia’s New Orleans Cafe is a must.  If you live in this area, and you haven’t been there yet, you’re committing a crime against your taste buds, and you should rectify this immediately.

Restaurant Information:

• Address: 2412 18th Street NW, Washington, DC
• Phone: 202-234-0420
• Price Range: Appetizers range from $4 - $10; Entrees range from $8 - $15.