Market Tavern replaces Harry's Tap Room

Downstairs bar

 Recently Harry's Tap Room, one of my favorite places for an upscale beer or fancy brunch, was revamped as Market Tavern. Despite being a "new" restaurant and having some kinks to work out, they offer great beer, wine and food in a cozy atmosphere.

The first floor is the "tavern" which features a familiar bar and free for all tables. The upstairs "chophouse" has more dining tables that are available for reservations. Although their are different menus for each section, I was able to order from either one. Their appetizer breads came with a plate full of fun spreads and spicy veggies.

Sliced NY steak salad

 Their take on a crab cake sandwich was tasty and satisifying, but not quiet as much meat as Clarendon Grill's version. The steak fries are delicious and just the right amount of grease. The sliced New York steak salad was also great, and went well with a dark glass of Malbec.

Crab cake sandwich

They have a massive drink menu, with over 77 wines by the glass and many fun beers offered. Pictured here is the "Old Rasputin" beer, which was dark and foamy like a Guiness black and tan.

I'm really happy about Market Tavern's new look and menu, and look forward to frequenting them again soon.

Harry's Tap Room brunch

Once again, I had an excellent brunch at Harry's Tap Room in Clarendon today. Surprisingly, this time our service was just as good as the food for a change.

Pictured here is the crab cakes with an extra side of bacon. As I've mentioned before, Harry's flavorful bacon could be the best around. The crab cakes, which rested on muffins with poached eggs atop, were delicious and filling alongside of the tasty home fries. I'm wondering how Harry's crab cakes compare to the similar dish at Marvin's in DC (thanks BitchesWhoBrunch).

Harry's Tap Room Brunch

Harry’s Fruitarian $16

Florentine Benedict with Spinach $13

I was lucky enough to be joined by friends for a Sunday brunch today at Harry's Tap Room. The upstairs dinning area is large and very high up, as the winding staircase doesn't seem to end. But they do have an elevator available for special needs guests. The added height does afford customers a nice view of the local streets below.

Their brunch menu does look delicious, although it is pricey. Don't miss out on the extras:

• Bacon - Get extra orders of their extremely tasty and cinnamon like flavored bacon strips
• Breakfast Potatoes - addictive and delicious if you like home style fries
  

Restaurant Week in Clarendon

Several local venues are participating in Restaurant Week:

• Restaurant 3
• Liberty Tavern
• Harry's Tap Room
• La Tasca
• Willow Bar
• Tallula

Harry’s Tap Room is also donating $5 to the DC Central Kitchen charity for every Restaurant Week dinner menu selected.

Winter 2010 Restaurant Week - January 11-17, 2010
Lunch: - $20.10 for a three-course fixed-price meal
Dinner: - $35.10 for a three-course fixed-price meal
Beverages, gratuity and tax are not included.

Click here for more participating local Washington DC and NoVA restaurants.