Lunch Date Vibes in DC
I kicked off the year by finally visiting a restaurant that had been sitting on my “must-try” list for way too long. After a day of exploring the National Gallery of Art, it felt like the perfect excuse to turn the day into a lunch date at Cane. And let me tell you, I made the right call.
The Location… Cane is a Caribbean kitchen specializing in Trinidadian cuisine, located in the H Street NE neighborhood at 403 H St. NE, Washington, DC 20002. I drove and was able to find parking pretty easily, which already felt like a win. That said, if you know H Street, you know parking can be hit or miss, especially later in the day. Choose your timing wisely, but do not let that stop you. This was my first time trying Trinidadian food, and I am already planning my return.
The Vibes… Small, cozy, and intimate in the best way. There are about 10 tables total, so I definitely recommend making a reservation if you can, especially for dinner. We stopped in for lunch without one and lucked out, but I would not push it during peak hours. There is also a tiny bar area that could work if you are feeling spontaneous, but it is very much a “grab it if you can” situation.
The Drinks… Since this was a lunch date, I skipped cocktails, but Cane does have a full bar with plenty of tempting options. If you are visiting for dinner or a relaxed afternoon, I can easily see myself saying yes to a drink or two.
The Food… I was literally dancing in my seat while eating, and honestly, I am still thinking about it. Here is what we ordered.
- Doubles
Fried bara topped with cumin-spiced channa and chutneys. We started with the doubles, which are usually a dinner-only item, but the kitchen made an exception. They were so good. The cumin flavor really stood out, warm and comforting, with just the right balance of sweet, salty, and spicy. The bara was soft, pillowy, and exactly how I imagine comfort food should feel.
- Trini-Style Chinese Chicken
Chicken fried and glazed in oyster sauce, served over jasmine rice with cucumber salad. This was my entrée, and every bite delivered. The chicken was slightly sweet and cooked perfectly, but the rice was the real star for me. The coconut flavor was bold and unapologetic. If you love coconut like I do, you will be obsessed. If not, this may not be the dish for you. The cucumber salad was fresh and crisp, and the dressing was so good that I found myself spooning it over the rice. No regrets.
- Paratha (Buss-Up-Shut) Roti Wraps
Paratha roti filled with curried potatoes or channa. My boyfriend ordered this as his entrée, and it immediately reminded me of the doubles. Warm, flavorful, and comforting. I definitely stole a few bites.
Final Thoughts…. Cane is one of those places that makes you excited about trying something new. The food is bold, comforting, and full of flavor, and the intimate setting makes it perfect for a casual lunch date or a cozy dinner. If you are looking to explore Trinidadian cuisine in DC or just want a really good meal, Cane should be high on your list.
I will absolutely be back. The end.
