Contemporary Italian ‘L’Ardente’ Now Open in Capitol Crossing

Chef David Deshaies and Restaurateur Eric Eden opened their contemporary Italian restaurant L’Ardente in Capitol Crossing earlier this month. Currently the only operational restaurant in the new and ultra-modern green development (200 Massachusetts Ave. NW) the dinner spot (lunch and brunch coming soon!) was a much-anticipated addition, especially with its all-season patio.

“L’Ardente is going to be all about democratized luxury,” Eden offered in a statement. “We’ve built a beautiful space, and David is using the finest imported and local ingredients, but we want it to feel comfortable and approachable. We aim to reflect the glorious contrasts of Italy itself: haute yet simple, glam yet rustic, indulgent yet restrained.”

L’Ardente’s Italian menu features popular pastas like ravioli with goat cheese, ricotta and peas, and the signature L’Ardente lasagna, with beef sugo, truffle, and sottocenere cheese. But it also centers strongly around the kitchen’s imported Spanish wood-burning grill from which live-fire cooked dishes, like a 30-day-dry-aged bistecca alla Fiorentina and a plate of grilled prawns served with black garlic, pomegranate molasses, and Calabrian chilies will be delivered. A pizza oven also produces sourdough crust favorites — from the classic Margherita to a smoked octopus offering.

The beverage menu includes an extensive list of Italian wines and classic cocktails, as well as a selection of imported Italian and local beers, so this is just the place to sip your Spritz and image you’re traveling through the Bel Paese.

Buon appetito!