322 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002

Cafe Berlin has been serving traditional cuisine on Capitol Hill since 1985. It occupies the ground floor of three joined townhouses whose front yards serve as patios for outdoor dining in warm weather. The interior features a small bar and two prettily decorated dining rooms. Walking distance from Union Station and the Capitol, it draws politicians, congressional staffers, and tourists as well as a loyal following of neighborhood residents. The chefs at Cafe Berlin are German, as are the owners, so the traditional dishes are authentically prepared but with a lighter touch. Changing seasonal menus feature fresh asparagus in the spring, Bavarian dishes during Oktoberfest, and wild game in the winter. Desserts are made in-house, and the extensive repertoire includes apple strudel, black forest cake, and luscious cream tortes. The bar offers a selection of imported German beers and wines as well as cocktails.