Ambitious Steakhouse Aims to Dominate Power Dining in D.C.

Wisconsin-based Rare Steak and Seafood is making a power play in the District, unveiling a two story restaurant — with a bonus rooftop dining option — designed to lure in expense-account diners for breakfast, lunch, and dinner once it opens next month.

The new 10,000-square-foot restaurant taking up residence at 1595 Eye Street NW features a host of dining opportunities.

There’s a casual tavern-style eatery (think: raw bar offerings, dry-aged burgers, and steak frites, among other things) on the ground floor that’s projected to accommodate up to 170 meat eaters. A “classic” steak house featuring leather booths, white tablecloths, and seating for 150 will reside on the second floor. And a private event space that reportedly “overlooks Lafayette Square and the White House” has been set aside on the roof for those craving dinner with a view.

Marc Hennessy, an alum of BLT Steak (which is right around the corner) and BLT Prime — President Donald Trump’s go-to meeting spot — is leading Rare’s kitchen. Featured items include roasted bone marrow ($17), spiced duck with Swiss chard ($34), imported wagyu strip steaks ($35 an ounce; 2-ounce minimum), Maine lobster with brown butter ($54), and a 50-ounce double bone-in chop ($125).

Image by Rare Steak and Seafood.

The Midwest export joins a crowded field of beef purveyors, ranging from homegrown options such as Latin-themed Del Campo and Top Chef-powered Voltaggio Brothers Steak House to iconic brands including the Prime Rib and Charlie Palmer Steak.

What makes Rare different? The newcomer is tentatively scheduled to roll out weekday breakfast service beginning January 2018.