Best Casual Restaurants in Kensington

Reservations is a must during a holiday like today. Only had to wait a few minutes before our table was ready. Our server (Camille?) was impressive being able to balance so many plates, but she also kept our drinks filled. Some cuts of meat were dry (lamb chops, pork belly, and bottom ribeye) and some (sirloin and garlic sirloin) were perfect. The tomahawk steak (entree order) was cooked perfectly and big enough that we (party of four) had to take the rest home. While it was quite noisy, it’s understandable given the day. Overall, I felt I had a pretty good experience.

Food and service were outstanding. Thank you. I highly recommend.

The cod and market fish special were excellent. We started with the two different salads. We ended with the donuts, which were a bit much and not super special. We would have preferred a different dessert. We were celebrating an anniversary, and they did make it special with a bit of sparkling wine and a sparkler on the table, as well as a card. We saw a number of special celebrations for birthdays and such nearby. It is a nice place for a special night.

Oh my! I’ve been going to Clyde’s restaurants for decades. They’ve been special in their own ways: very good, mid-priced food, nice decors, and excellent service. This was my first time at Tower Oaks and, as soon as I walked in, I wanted to spend the week! Though that’s not possible, I do think their setting and ‘lodge’ decor are like the most exquisite National Park or luxury lodge I’ve been in. In the same Clyde’s fashion, no detail is spared and the tables are spacious and not at all crowded! Dawn was our server and she was top-notch; including when we wanted mussels but couldn’t eat the spicy preparation on the menu, she volunteered to speak with the kitchen about using the lemon butter on the cod and throwing in some garlic. It was divine! And we complemented it by a market salad with greens, apples, and pears and a white Balsamic dressing. We were seated in a large booth overlooking the forest. As we walked out, I saw a formal dining room with large round tables. I’ll be sure to bring our family group of 6-8 to enjoy what a round table offers. Could not have been happier! Since covid, we’re still not eating out a lot; this was a rare and perfect treat! Kudos!

Our second meal at Salt Line Bethesda. Wonderful seafood, attentive service. We will return for future special occasions.