Washington Blade

Logan Circle’s latest gem
Casual yet stylish, Logan Tavern is poised to fill a hungry niche in this revamped neighborhood with its lively atmosphere, tasty food and pleasing prices.

By Aaron Flynn


LITTLE LOGAN CIRCLE looks so grown up. It seems like only yesterday that I was scrambling, eyes downcast, to make my way through its blighted streets.

O.K., it really wasn't quite as bad as all that. But with gourmet this and luxury home that on every corner these days, you can't help but feel like something dramatic is taking place — like a natural disaster or a flood that somehow is doing the exact opposite of property damage.

As one among many newcomers to the area, Logan Tavern may have its competition cut out for it, but, if the fight's fair, this tastefully low-key eatery will hold its own.

It doesn't look like much from outside. Well, at least, when compared to the swanky new lofts above the surprisingly spacious dining room.

The entrance, for the moment, is so unobtrusive you could easily pass right by. It will probably be easier to spot when the locals really start flocking here in droves.

With a blue and black interior punctuated with oversized photos of Logan Circle landmarks, the overall effect is serene, sophisticated, and yet casual enough to appeal to all sorts. It wouldn't be unfair to say the same of the menu.

THERE'S AN AMPLE assortment to choose from, especially in the appetizer/salad arena. If there somehow manages to be one last hot summer day, a salad of lump crab and a fresh sliced half of avocado, is a wonderfully cool and refreshing place to start. But more likely than not, the temperatures will be dropping, and the ginger calamari, my new favorite take on squid, is just perfect for a chilly night. This flash fried dish is sweet, spicy, and wonderfully unique.
Entrees come accompanied by a small mixed green salad that's respectably inventive for a staple. I was nervous when I heard it had a lavender vinaigrette dressing; everything I've ever eaten with lavender in it has tasted pretty much like fresh laundry. They somehow manage to pull it off, with the lavender just hinting that it's there.

Entrees are no less diverse than your choices for the first course, but there's a decidedly more American feel to the cuisine. American with a twist, of course. You'll find wasabi-encrusted meatloaf, a grilled turkey steak with maple and citrus, and, of course, seafood every which way.

The menu certainly has plenty to be proud of and there is something sure to appeal to everyone. Don’t pass up the roast pork loin in sweet Asian mustard. The meat is tender, juicy, and cooked to perfection. The chicken adobo, a fried number marinated in two different vinegars, is pretty tasty as well, though, as with many chicken dishes, this can come off a bit on the oily side.

Desserts are less inventive than I had hoped. You'll find items like a brownie sundae, warm chocolate cake, and a banana crème pie, but they're executed with just a bit more character than most places. Best of the bunch is the key lime pie, spruced up with the addition of mango. The warm apple tart is nice as well.

Logan Tavern is a fortunate new addition to this burgeoning part of town. It won’t go down in flames too quickly: The staff is smart and courteous and the prices are reasonable.

For a restaurant that only opened days ago, it’s remarkably on the ball. I braced myself for foibles and follies, but nothing more egregious than a little tardiness refilling water glasses came my way.

Dinner entrees are $11-$17; appetizers $6-$8, and lunch $6-$9.