Wining, Dining, and Savoring Ghanaian Food with my Ex
A Review of Elmina by Eric Adjepong
Today’s newsletter features a review of Eric Adjepong's newest DC restaurant, Elmina! Of course, my ex, who loves to infringe on my plans, decided to tag along. You’ll have the pleasure of getting two opinions for the price of one — a twofer! Let’s set the table and get to eating, shall we?
Getting There
The restaurant was pretty easy to find, like anywhere on Ust. It’s not nestled in a dark alleyway but right on the street, perfect for the average commuter. I recommend Ubering straight there if you got it like that. However, if these streets are your usual stomping grounds, then catch a ride on the DC metro and enjoy a brisk walk to the restaurant. The Ust/African American Museum/Cardozo stop is the closest. That’ll conjure up an appetite for the extensive tasting menu you’re about to indulge in.
Brief History
I was first introduced to Eric Adjepong on Top Chef: Kentucky, arguably my favorite season of Top Chef thus far. What I loved about the season is that there was a strong sense of camaraderie amongst the contestants. Yes, they were all competing for the same prize, but everyone seemed to respect each other’s craft and space throughout the season. Adjepong stood out as someone who was highly connected to his roots. Although finishing 3rd place, he demonstrated the most detailed, unforgettable dishes that conveyed his cultural history.
Elmina is a contemporary Ghanaian restaurant that opened in Washington DC, by celebrated chef and restaurateur Eric Adjepong. Influenced by his love for global cuisines, the aim is a bold dining experience that goes beyond a mere meal. - (restaurant site)
I was intrigued by the name of the restaurant as Elmina refers to the Elmina Castle - the center port for the transatlantic slave trade in Southern Ghana. As a Ghanaian American, Adjepong’s cuisine highlights his heritage, with the name reflecting his passion for showcasing Ghana's history and the cultural significance of the port.
The Ambiance
As soon as you step into Elmina, you're welcomed by the enticing aroma of Ghanaian food. At first glance, the decor feels romantically dramatic, almost sensual. From the curved banister leading up to the second floor to the array of plants and the moody, intimate atmosphere. It all draws you in. I found myself especially connected to the second-floor decor. I’m a big fan of plants, even if I tend to let them die (though I’m sure I’ll find some deep symbolism for that later in life).
The curved contours and plant-filled rooms symbolize the transatlantic slave trade route. Adejong not only tells this story through food but also through the design of the restaurant itself. Tom Sietsema described it the best in his review:
“The first floor, home to one of two bars and an open kitchen in back, is white and airy, a nod to the cotton trade supported by the labor of people forcibly brought from Africa. A palette of green in the terrace on the second story references sugar cane. The loftiest dining area, dressed with plush chairs, rippled walls and a skylight, is indigo blue, a marker of the ocean navigated by enslaved people.” - Tom Sietsema
The tables were my favorite! I’m a sucker for a bit of marbling. The chairs and booth spaces were very comfortable and stylish with the touch of gold rim. However, I hateeeeed how close together they were. I could reach over and eat my neighbor’s plate. I also felt like I had to watch what I said at my table because, well, everyone around me could hear everything, even whispers.
The Tasting Menu
I won’t burden you with too much reading in this section. I'll give a one-sentence and number review out of 10 towards the end. TL;DR - The tasting menu includes a four-course tasting experience that’s $ 105 pp. The third course is a more significant portion, so parties of 2+ can enjoy family style. If you’d rather eat items a-la-carte, you would have to sit at their bar section. Honestly, I’m not a fan of restaurants that partake in that.
First Course: Hamachi Crudo & Zaalouk Dip
Hamachi Crudo
Passion fruit. Peri-peri oil. Tender herbs. Serrano. Radish. Corn nuts.
Zaalouk Dip
Roasted eggplant. Coriander oil. Roasted vine tomato. Crumbled goat cheese. Crisp red onion. Spiced buttered flatbread.
Second Course: Fufu & Wagyu Short Rib
Fufu
Pounded plantain and cassava. Braised goat. Nkati Nkwan.
Wagyu Short Rib
Prekese and onion steak sauce. Crispy cassava. Pickled fresno.
Third Course: Jollof Duck Pot
Jollof Duck Pot
Smoked jollof. Tamarind-glazed confit duck leg. Duck breast. Duck egg. Shito. Roasted tomato salad.
Fourth Course: Bofrot & Mango Pudding
Mango Pudding
Pomegranate granita. Mango caviar. Pavlova. Hazelnut crumble.
Bofrot
Nutmeg chantilly. Sticky toffee sauce. Heath bar crunch. Milo gelato
Overall, it was a fabulous experience, even in the final moments when my ex and I went completely non-verbal. Mainly because we were insanely full. That second course with the fufu and wagyu tapped us out so hard that we had to get over half of the Jollaf rice to go. You most definitely will get your money’s worth with the tasting menu.
The Service
Before I get into the rating, I have to bow down to the service. WOW! I hate that I didn’t write down our server's name because she did such a fabulous job. While we were seated, she was attentive, given that I had a 7 p.m. reservation. It was busy as hell in there. She explained the menu very well and offered suggestions based on our tastes. The service itself was an 11/10 for me.
The Cheque
Alright, the final verdict we’ve all been waiting for. The overall review out of 10! Drumroll, please…..
Pamela: 8/10 - mainly because the seating could have been a bit more intimate. I felt that I had to raise my voice most of the time, which was exhausting. I’d love to return to sit at the bar and enjoy their a-la-carte menu. It truly is the perfect little date spot, whether you’ve never tried Ghanian food or you’ve been lucky enough to grow up experiencing fufu amongst other dishes.
The Ex: “10/10…the Zaalouk Dip, I can see myself crushing more of that.”
A man of many words.
If you're in the DC-Metro area, do yourself a favor and try Elmina! Drop a comment if you're already drooling, and don't forget to support the newsletter by hitting that subscribe button!
Anyway, that’s all I have for you today. Let’s get the check, I mean ChequePlease!
