Joseph Evans To Helm Boutique Steakhouse On U Street

The boutique steakhouse destined for the corner of 14th and U streets is still under heavy construction, but looks like the kitchen will be in able hands. Chef Joseph Evans has departed the more staid steak environment of Smith & Wollensky to become executive chef of the Lost Society as it debuts at the end of this month.

Evans has been with Smith & Wollensky his entire career, starting with Houston and with a stint in Philadelphia before coming to DC where he had three years as executive chef. But Lost Society, he says, presented an opportunity for him to get a little more creative with his menu than the traditional steakhouse dishes. The menu is still in draft form so no real details yet, but Evans plans to use certified black angus dry-aged beef, regional produce and cooking techniques that go beyond the typical broiling. And once they've launched at the end of this month, the restaurant is planning to tack on a weekend brunch menu.

The bar space at Lost Society looks pretty impressive, too — a 30-seat roof deck overlooks the busy U Street intersection. But while they're sure to draw a big happy hour crowd, Evans says the emphasis here will most certainly be on the food — even the bar menu will have everything from pork belly and steamed mussels to hot dogs and hamburgers.

· Lost Society [Official Site]
· All Previous Lost Society Coverage [-EDC-]

Joseph Evans [Photo: Amy McKeever/Eater.com]