The Early Word on The Smith

The Smith, a modern American brasserie and bar with four Manhattan locations, swung open its doors in D.C. just a few weeks ago.

Located at 901 F St. NW, the massive 9,000-square-foot eatery replaces a shuttered McCormick & Schmick’s. The floor-to-ceiling overhaul, designed by //3877 Architects, included adding glossy white subway tiling and patterned mosaic flooring.

The menu is similar to what’s found at its sister spots, such as steaks, salads, steamed mussels, and comfort food like mac and cheese. The 200-seat restaurant recently tacked on weekend brunch — a popular meal at its NYC locales.

Read on to hear what customers are saying:

The Manhattan News: Yelper Rodel B. says the Midtown Manhattan “was on point. Stiff with a good mix of subtle sweetness and flavors,” while the crab cake tots were “scrumptious and I don't even really like crabmeat. The tarter sauce they sat on and green apple topping elevated it.” [Yelp]

The New Neighbor News: Penn Quarter Living visited its new neighborhood restaurant and says “all the dishes were above average in taste and preparation although pricing is also above average. Our favorites were the calamari which was lightly breaded and cooked to perfection, and the birthday cake which was richly accented with chocolate. Service was also very good.” The white subway tiling gives it “a stylish brasserie look” but “makes the interior very noisy and conversation difficult when it’s crowded.” [PQ Living]

The NYC vs. DC News: Yelper Erica Y. says it’s “very much same atmosphere as their NY locations, lively (or loud :) fun with friendly service and a diverse crowd (from family to young professionals). Food is delicious and huge portions for brunch. I realize avocado toast is on every menu these days but they do it right here. Huge chunks of avocado with a hint of red pepper flakes and perfectly poached eggs ... overall a lovely addition to Penn Quarter and D.C. brunch scene.” Meanwhile, Instagrammer @lauren_mancuso calls it her “home away from home, away from home.” [Yelp]

The Salads and Starters News: Yelper Nadi N. reports the “food was good. The appetizers ranged from so so to tasty. Most memorable appetizer was the squash. I ordered the winter citrus salad with grilled shrimp. The salad was excellent. The shrimp was overcooked.” Meanwhile, Instagrammer @onlyonelu had an “amazing” kale salad. [Yelp, Instagram]

The Sweet Finale News: Yelper Sara E. says the dessert was “perfection! We ordered three desserts for our table Caramelized Apple Pie (definitely shareable!!), S'more in a jar (very chocolaty) and Sticky Toffee Pudding (very fulfilling).” [Yelp]

The Pretty Pricey News: Yelper Amanda W. says the “food we ordered was delicious and the only reason I can't give 5 stars is because it is pretty expensive for what you're getting — I have a hard time with a side salad without protein for $14. Also, all of the entrees are around $30 and not necessarily the quality I would expect for that price.” [Yelp]