Memorable Meals

I made an amazing discovery as a teenager eating my first (and best ever) pizza at Luigi’s in northwest Washington. The tables in the neighborhood hole-in-the-wall were covered in red and white checkered cloths. Each table was lit dimly with a candle, that poked from a wicker-covered wine bottle heavily waxed from hours of drippings.

If the owner, Luigi, took a liking to you, he’d come over to the table with a big knife, cut off your tie, and mount it on a backwall amongst his neckwear collection. It was an honor to be among his selectees. You might say, Luigi offered both a good pizza and a memorable evening. 

Get Ready for a Mouth Party 

Matt McGuire Makes Magic Happen

I recently dined with family at Louie in Demun. The long, skinny space reminded me of the shotgun-style architecture often found on The Hill. But the ambiance reflected the relaxed, welcoming feel of “Cheers.” I felt at home.

It was midweek and we were celebrating Andrew’s birthday. But it could have been the weekend; the place was overflowing with happy diners. 

Owner and culinary maestro, Matt McGuire, was working along side his first-class wait staff. (Matt is shown in the far right corner of the opening photo, where he is shaving prosciutto into paper thin slices.)

The culinary guru will soon have a new kitchen to see over next year when he opens Wright’s Tavern, formerly I Fratellini, on Wydown. 

Prosciutto di Parma with Parmigiano Reggiano

Focaccia Bread

Bliss on a Plate

In the galaxy of Italian cuisine, Matt McGuire is a Jedi master. Especially, noteworthy, is his Paradelle Bolognese. But the special of the day, Sweet Potato Ravioli, also caught my eye.

Austin was sitting next to me and suggested we split the two entrees so we could each enjoy both varieties. That was a good idea.

Pappardelle Bolognese with Parmigiano Reggiano. Get ready for a lot of goodness.

Sweet Potato Ravioli deserves a place in pasta paradise.

Roasted Chicken and Rapini with Chicken Jus. Juicy, flavorful, and healthy. What more could you ask!

Whether it’s a birthday celebration, an evening with friends, or a drop by for a drink, Louie’s will brighten your day with their consistently superb Italian cuisine.

Put this one on your bingo card.

Louie. 706 Demun. Hours: Mon-Thu 5p-10p; Fri-Sat 5p-11p; Closed Sunday.: