Al Crostino, a tiny place on U Street, serves up exactly what you are looking for in a neighborhood restaurant—tasty food at a great price. At first glance, the dining room seems too small and bland to serve anything special (the TV on the wall doesn’t help, but I guess that’s Washington, DC for you). But, Al Crostino gets its personality from the Chef, Luigi Diotaiuti of Al Tiramisu, not the décor.
The linguine with clam sauce, had more tender clams than I could count and wasn’t smothered in garlic, a common flaw in other kitchens. The Lamb Ragu with house made parpedelle had just enough spice to add depth to the dish. Every component of the beef carpacicio dish—arugula, parmesan reggiano, olive oil, lemon, and beef—was flavorful except for the beef, which fell a little flat.
The service was great. The social chef personally delivered our dishes, and, after overhearing it was my friend’s birthday, treated us to a light and creamy tiramisu. He clearly loves cooking and feeding people, and his enthusiasm is contagious.
Al Crostino is a perfect place for a casual meal with friends before heading to the clubs on U Street.
