Toki Underground
"Where every dish is plated and served with a side of something extra - something rare: Pride."
The Lowdown: Here, every dish is plated and served with a side of something extra - something rare: Pride. A pride that comes from loving what you do. It's a deliciously, wonderful trait that the staff exbhibits openly; and after almost 4 years in business I'm here to re-affirm that Toki Underground has still got it.
First Impression: Walk up the narrow stairway to the second floor restaurant, and you are greeted with dim blue lights illuminating graffiti sprawling the walls. It's a mysterious entrance that could easily double as a gateway to a underground grunge party. Reach the top and you feel like you've entered a secret treehouse illuminated by charming red orb lanterns that adds a layer mystic and warmth to the atmosphere. This is a place that invites you to spend a couple of hours, hidden away from the grand corridors of DC, sipping on original cocktails and delighting in the many artfully crafted dishes.
What I ordered:
Japanese whisky topped with a sweet, foamy meringue. This is genius in a glass.
Oh baby those buns never looked so fine. Seriously, I like big buns, and this pic doesn't lie. This is a case of opposites attract. Where crispy fried chicken tossed in a flavorful, spicy asian sauce meets fluffy, sweet cloud buns and the angels sing at the match made in heaven.
If you're feeling experimental, try this brussels sprout and carrot kimchi innovation - it packs an INTENSE punch that leaves you salivating from the acidity, in a good way.
If you've read my previous posts you know I melt like butter whenever dumplings are placed before me. There's a 3 things to know about these that make it a must try: 1) Semi crispy/semi chewy exterior that 2) bites down into soft ground pork spiced and flavor packed with herbs in just the right way; and 3) sits above a delicious sweet glaze.
And finally, the main event we've come for: the Ramen. I went with the server's favorite - the Red Miso. The broth is hot and savory - perfect for a winter night. The colors and textures create a dish full of endless surprises. Scooping into it with the giant ladle is like digging for treasure. The pirate in me appreciates this. But the best part was the noodles - each strand can be distinguished from the other - each had its own character. The noodle didn't just play a supporting role, it was the soul of the bowl itself.
The Best Part: The passion and pride of the chefs and servers. They actually love being there. This passion not only translates into great food; its infectious in spirit as well.
The Worst Part: The line is always long at this 20-something seater place-- But good things are worth waiting for. You can always walk across the street for a drink while you build your appetite, the bar options are plenty. Also, the pork in my Red Miso was a *little* over salted.
Good for: Any occasion. Your date will think you're pretty cool if you bring them here. Your friend will thank you for introducing them to some of the most creative food in DC. And your mom will think you're weird at first entrance, but will begin the appreciate the genius of the place once she bites into the crispy chicken bun.
My take: Food 8.5/10; Ambience 8/10. Winner and a keeper.
Location: 1234 H St., NE