Eating Around: Close to Home

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Developing Dining
White tablecloths, meet Petworth; Petworth, meet your new Indian restaurant. When choosing a location for Fusion, chef and owner Barry Dindyal chose his own neighborhood. Besides wanting a short commute, Dindyal opened shop here because of the "development coming to the area." While the liquor license is still pending (he's banking on the end of January) Dindyal did offer an alcoholic teaser: Avenue Spice Queen, a house blend of Ketel One vodka infused with the Caribbean chili, bird pepper, homemade mango syrup and a splash of cranberry. As for the food , the palak paneer is creamy and spicy and should be scooped up with puffy puri bread.
» Fusion, 4815 Georgia Ave. NW; 202-726-2210.

Bring on the Ox (and Food)
According to the Chinese Zodiac, the sign of the ox symbolizes the intrinsic capacity to accomplish greatness. And if you want to experience greatness in edible form, turn to the Source's celebration of the Chinese New Year. From Jan. 26 to 30, enjoy a five-course meal that weaves the traits of the ox into corresponding dishes. Pan-toasted lobster pot stickers signify wealth by the crescent shape of the dumplings which resemble historic Chinese currency. And the length of the pan-fried noodles, paired with the Szechwan style chili prawns, signifies a long life. The meal ends with a golden pineapple sticky cake, usually reserved for the Kitchen God, but, hey, if you're willing to shell out $100 for dinner, then maybe you are a god.
» The Source, $100 per person, $150 with wine pairings, 575 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.; 202-637-6100. (Archives-Navy Memorial)

Maryland Brings It
D.C. diners don't get to have all the fun. Bethesda and Chevy Chase have teamed up for their own Restaurant Week, beating the city's prices with a $12 or $15 lunch (2 courses) and $30 dinner (3 courses). If your New Year's resolution is still kicking, head over to Rock Creek Restaurant to view menus with calorie counters. Sushi enthusiasts can enjoy the freshest of the raw with fusion inspired rolls (jalapeño topped sushi, anyone?) at the newest Sushi Ko. Sharing is not only caring, but also deliciousness if you can maximize the diversity of small plates at the tapas restaurant Jaleo.
» Bethesda-Chevy Chase Restaurant Week, Jan. 26-Feb. 1; 301-215-6660, bethesda.org. (Bethesda/Friendship Heights)

» What's eating you?
Please send press releases, photos and food to dining@readexpress.com.

Written by Express contributor Stefanie Gans
Photo by Nikki Kahn/The Washington Post