Al Tiramisu - Washington, DC

Al Tiramisu is like taking a trip to Italy without leaving metropolitan Washington DC. It's the most authentic Italian restaurant in the nation's capital.

The most distinctive food is imported from Italy—a large selection of whole fish such as Branzini and orata, buffalo mozzarella, sardines, Parma ham, porcini mushrooms, octopus, white and black truffles. Pasta is made on site. "Ragu is made as we did back home in Italy; we grind fine first cut meat. We focus on quality, not quantity," emphasizes chef/owner Luigi Diotaiuti, "which we can do in a small space."

The restaurant is cozy, warm, and joyful—reflecting the effervescent and playful personality of Chef Luigi. "I want people to have great food AND a great time. When people leave happy, I know that what I'm doing in life touches people," adds Diotaiuti. He has a huge scrapbook of handwritten notes from happy customers.