Rosslyn's Secret Chopsticks is Open for Dinner!
Enjoy Tasting Menus of Contemporary Chinese Cuisine
The much-anticipated Secret Chopsticks, located in the heart of Rosslyn at 1850 N. Fort Myer Drive, opened yesterday for dinner. Its arrival is creating quite a stir among foodies and local media: It’s recently been featured on Let’s Talk Live DC, and in Washingtonian magazine and on Eater DC, which did a photo spread of the restaurant's modern interior. Chef Robin Li says he hopes to create a "new concept of a Chinese restaurant that will hopefully change American diners' perceptions of Chinese cuisine."
Here's a quick summary of all you need to know about Rosslyn's newest restaurant.
Menu
Authentic and healthful Chinese recipes that incorporate fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Guests can enjoy a la carte dining in the lounge, or select from one of four different nine-course, prix fixe tastings menus to enjoy in the main dining room. Tasting menus include: Vegetarian ($59), Tofu ($59), Dim Sum ($79), and Protein ($89). A Chef's Premier 13-course tasting menu is also available highlighting the best of regional Mainland China. The prix fixe tasting menus change monthly.
Beverages
The beverage program at Secret Chopsticks offers an eclectic wine list emphasizing the major regions of the world including Italy, France, Spain, Macedonia, Portugal, Austria, New Zealand, Argentina, Germany, California, Washington, Oregon and Virginia. 20 wines are available by the glass. Prices range from $12 to $25 by the glass and $45 to $1,200 by the bottle; higher-end wines are allocated and rare.
Two wine pairing options are also available to accommodate the nine-course tasting menus.
Patrons are allowed to bring in outside wine as long as the wine is not available on the restaurant’s expansive wine list. The corkage fee is priced at $25 per bottle (750 ml) and $35 per bottle (magnum or larger format) and there is a two-bottle maximum.
Five house-made, specialty cocktails are also available showcasing Asian-inspired flavors. These are priced from $12 to $25 each. Six craft draft beers and 15 craft beer bottles are also available.
Hours of Operation
Sunday to Thursday, 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m; Friday and Saturday, 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Note that the restaurant will eventually open for lunch and weekend brunch.
Parking and Access
The Secret Chopsticks entrance is at 1850 N. Fort Myer Drive. Metered parking for Secret Chopsticks is available on the street, and there are multiple public parking lots nearby. Diners should note that you cannot access the restaurant via the Turnberry Tower driveway on Nash Street or via the Tower’s parking garage or valet service. It is a separate entity from Turnberry Tower.
Reservations
Reservations are recommended. Call 703.512.8888 or book on OpenTable. Reservations are required for parties of six or more.
Fun Facts
When asked what inspired him to become a chef, Chef de cuisine Robin Li says simply: "I've always loved to cook and eat. It's what I've done for the past twenty-some years." His favorite dishes on the menu are the pork belly, braised tofu skin, sweet rice shaomai and the Chinese yam.