THESE ARE THE 50 BEST RESTAURANTS

Agora

McLean / Mediterranean / $$$

Diners at Agora Tysons will be impressed by exceptional Mediterranean cuisine inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Turkey, Greece, and Lebanon.

Visiting Agora with a group is the way to go, to enjoy a taste of the many noteworthy spreads (order the six-flavor sampler), exotic hot and cold mezzes, and inviting flatbread selections. For an appetizer with showmanship, try the saganaki, a gooey rectangle of kasar cheese dramatically flambéed tableside and served with lavash.

One could easily make a meal out of the small plates, but for those who prefer a grilled entrée, Agora’s chicken is a star. Chefs infuse the poultry with rosemary, oregano, thyme, and Turkish marjoram and brush it with zesty toum — a marvelous garlic, olive oil, lemon, and maras pepper concoction — before grilling it over charcoal. To say it is memorable is an understatement.

Ottoman rice and bruksel lahana pair nicely with meats; the rice is a compelling blend of black currants, almonds, apricots, pine nuts, and fried shallots. The latter is baked Brussels sprouts, presented with tahini, peppers, and blackberries. The harissa dipping sauce is spicy and aromatic, bringing life to anything paired with the vivid paste.

For a tantalizing visit to the Mediterranean, make Agora your destination. The memorable flavors and warm hospitality will draw you back again and again.

See this: Sit in a basket-woven booth or a regular table lit by colorful Turkish lamps.

Eat this: Köy salatas?, grilled chicken, adana kebap

When to come: Bring a group to share mezzes for a spot-on Mediterranean feast.

Source: https://northernvirginiamag.com/food/reviews/2022/11/01/northern-virginia-magazine-50-best-restaurants-2022/