As someone perpetually looking for the most exciting and cool spots in Washington DC, the buzz around Columbia Heights lately has been impossible to ignore. The reason? Fraiche DC, a dynamic new restaurant that has just opened its doors on the bustling 14th St NW corridor. This isn’t just any opening; it’s the brainchild of the incredibly popular Chef Matt Price, known to his millions of social media followers as Mr. Make It Happen. Located at 3345 14th St. NW, Fraiche (which aptly means “Fresh” in French) is already making waves, bringing a sophisticated yet approachable energy to the neighborhood, fueled by exciting Caribbean and Cajun influences.

Stepping Inside: The Vibe, Design, and Ambiance

Stepping inside Fraiche DC, you immediately sense the blend of history and modernity. Occupying a space that once housed a theater, mere steps from the GALA Hispanic Theater, the restaurant embraces its architectural roots while offering a fresh perspective. The design unfolds across three distinct, thoughtfully curated zones, all bathed in opulent green and golden jewel tones.

Guests can start their evening in the Press Lounge, a chic cocktail area perfect for pre-dinner drinks. The main dining experience unfolds in the Greenhouse, designed with natural light and vibrant greenery in mind. The Essence Lounge offers an intimate social space for those seeking a more energetic vibe, hinting at future live entertainment or DJ sets. The ambiance strikes that sought-after DC balance: upscale enough for an occasion, yet comfortable enough for a regular haunt.

Adding vibrant local color are stunning murals from DC artists Chris Pyrate, Demont Pinder, Kelly Towles, Tom Kim, and Marcella Marie Verchio, enhancing the visually rich environment that accommodates around 100 guests.

A Culinary Journey: Exploring Fraiche’s Fusion Flavors

But Fraiche DC is truly defined by its menu, where Chef Matt Price, alongside Kitchen Manager Melville Bowrin Jr. (Chef Mel) and Chef de Cuisine Rico Yarbrough, crafts a compelling narrative of culinary fusion. Drawing inspiration from French, South American, and, prominently, Caribbean and Cajun cuisines, the dishes elevate familiar concepts with innovative twists.

Consider starting with the uniquely brilliant Oxtail Meatballs, an Italian-Caribbean marriage where tender braised oxtail is shredded, fried, and served back in its rich sauce. Another intriguing starter is the playfully named “Rich Friend Broke Friend” Deviled Eggs, which arrive topped with crispy fried chicken and a touch of caviar. Seafood lovers will appreciate the rich and creamy She Crab Soup, generously filled with jumbo lump crab and sherry, or the Cajun Mussels swimming with smoked andouille in a spicy tomato broth – a clear nod to its Louisiana roots.

The main courses continue the exploration of flavor and technique. The Garlic Noodles, inspired by San Francisco, are a customizable delight, with choices like Lamb Chops, Short Rib, Salmon, Shrimp, or King Crab. Paying homage to DC culture through a Caribbean lens is the impressive Mambo Fried Snapper, a fish fried to perfection and drizzled with a house-made mambo sauce.

Barbecue enthusiasts will gravitate towards the Sticky Ribs, showcasing tender, fall-off-the-bone pork ribs in a perfectly balanced glaze. At the same time, the French Quarter Risotto offers a creamy taste of New Orleans with andouille sausage, head-on prawns, and that essential Cajun trinity. These standouts are complemented by equally thoughtful sides, including delightful Honey Butter Cornbread and indulgent Five-Cheese Mac and Cheese.

Desserts provide a sweet finish with classic Creme Brulee, inventive Macaroon Cheesecake, and comforting Butterscotch Bread Pudding.

Beyond the Plate: Drinks, Team, and Future Plans

The cocktail list features unique concoctions such as the refreshing Lillet Spritz, the aromatic Chicory Express, which blends vodka with chicory and espresso, the bold Punch Drunk, which mixes rum and rye with a spicy Caribbean habanero kick, and the decadent Creole Coco, which fuses coconut bourbon and cognac.

The dedicated team, including Chef Mel, who brings his U.S. Virgin Islands heritage, and Chef Rico Yarbrough, who has an extensive fine dining background, ensures high execution. Furthermore, Fraiche DC is looking towards the future, with plans for outdoor seating perfect for spring and summer enjoyment and aspirations to introduce a lively brunch scene complete with a DJ, adding even more energy to DC’s thriving brunch culture.

Why Fraiche is DC’s Newest “Cool Spot” & How to Visit

Fraiche DC is more than just a restaurant; Chef Price describes it as “a celebration of local ingredients, innovative flavors, and the joy of gathering around the table.” Fraiche DC demands a visit from anyone seeking an exciting new dining experience that combines a celebrity chef’s vision, innovative Caribbean and Cajun fusion cuisine, and a cool atmosphere on 14th St NW. Fraiche DC is at 3345 14th St. NW, Washington, DC 20002.

Reservations are highly recommended via OpenTable, and you can explore more at their website, Fraiche DC, or follow their journey on Instagram @fraiche_dc. For inquiries, call 202-506-6995. They even offer complimentary valet on weekends, making visiting even smoother.

This is one of the cool new spots in DC to add to your list, especially if you appreciate bold Caribbean and Cajun flavors served with style.

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