In Washington D.C., you're only as good as your last fundraiser.
The Center for Responsible Politics released a report Tuesday revealing the most popular D.C. hotels and restaurants for D.C. politicos to host fundraisers, and how much money they spent at each.
The top 10 lists for both parties reveal that in the 2012 election season, Democrats spent a total of $3.1 million at their favorite spots. Republicans clocked in at $4.6 million.
The Republican National Committee, the Obama Victory Fund and Rep. Eric Cantor (R-Va.) all shelled out serious cash during 2012. It would appear that when politicians want to raise money, they almost always want to do it at a steakhouse.
If you're looking to live the lifestyle of a Washington insider with a big-league budget, even if just for one night, we have your guide to the favorite dining rooms of Republicans and Democrats alike. And there is some overlap — three of the restaurants appear on the top 10 lists of both parties. Get ready to get dressed up and dip into your retirement fund.
Reviews are courtesy of Yelp. For hotel fundraisers, reviews are based off the on-site restaurant.
Acqua Al 2
PARTY: Republican
BIG SPENDER: Rep. Pat Tiberi (R-Ohio)
AMOUNT SPENT AT LOCATION IN 2012: $143,028
Price Range: $$$
REVIEW : "Terrific place. My go-to business lunch location, but also a great place to hang out in the neighborhood on any given evening. Attentive staff, great Northern Italian food, creatively prepared. These folks are doing the restaurant business right. Associated speakeasy, Harold Black's, upstairs is a secret."
WHAT YOU SHOULD ORDER: Definitely get experimental with the steak sampler, which includes blueberry and balsamic filet mignon.
WHERE TO FIND IT: 212 7th St SE
(between S North Carolina Ave & S C St)
Washington, DC 20003
Bistro Bis
PARTY: Democratic
BIG SPENDER: Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee
AMOUNT SPENT AT LOCATION IN 2012: $362,452
PRICE RANGE: $$$
REVIEW: "How many of you have seen a lion sunning himself on a South African safari? Or seen a humpback whales breach in the Alaskan sea? Probably not many, but you take comfort in knowing that they are there. Somewhere. That they exist....for someone to appreciate or just for the sake of existing. That's how I feel about The Duck Hash at Bistro Bis."
WHAT YOU SHOULD ORDER: Seems like the Duck Hash is a solid option, but the Beef Bourguignon, served with bacon lardons (small strips or cubes, for my fellow uncultured masses), onions, and buttered noodles also earns rave reviews.
WHERE TO FIND IT: 15 E St NW
(between N New Jersey Ave & N Capitol St)
Washington, DC 20001
BLT Steak
PARTY: Republican
BIG SPENDER: Rep. Eric Cantor (R-Va.)
AMOUNT SPENT AT LOCATION IN 2012: $135,705
PRICE RANGE: $$$$
REVIEW: "The food was excellent. As mentioned on all the other reviews, the popover bread is an absolute must. I ordered the bone-in rib eye and it was cooked perfectly and delicious. The sides were good, but nothing unique enough to stand out in my mind. I ordered the Mushrooms to be safe and they were good. I would have given 5 stars, but left some room for improvement for the ambiance itself. Don't get me wrong, it's nice. Just nothing particularly special about the décor or setup. BLT is a must try when you're in D.C."
WHAT YOU SHOULD ORDER: Don't worry, you'll get the prized popovers automatically with the meal. When it comes time to choose, the braised short ribs are a winner, and the Hen of The Woods mushrooms on the side are not to be missed.
WHERE TO FIND IT: 1625 I St NW
(between N 16th St & N Connecticut Ave)
Washington, DC 20006
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