I will take a special friend to dinner in DC this week. We are both open to any type cuisine. Any suggestions?

The Blue Duck is a good choice.  Here is a review from the Post.

I've been to the Lauriol Plaza and the food is good.  

http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/restaurants/lauriol-plaza,792217.html

Been there many times.  I agree the food is good.  The downside of both the Blue Duck and Lauriol Plaza is the noise level and if OP is taking someone special, a quieter place may be better.  The Oval Room would be a good choice or 1789 in Georgetown; although, I think the food is better at the Oval Room.

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You are better off just searching a restaurant review site, e.g. Tom Siestama or Tim Carman latest picks, than looking on a hobbyist board for recommendations.

Cheers!

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The Prime Rib (K St. downtown) is great for steak and seafood; Sushi Taro (DuPont Circle area) is wonderful for sushi and kaiseki - order the set menus at Sushi Taro. Both are good for intimate conversation so long as you aren't next to the piano at Prime Rib.

Zagat is free now that Google has bought it. You can check its ratings for DC restaurants

Appreciate review site recommendations. The sites you recommended are both new to me. I first attempted several other review sites. After sifting through the many reviews I thought feedback from like minded individuals might get me closer, faster.

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Rogué 24

If you want a classic restaurant, try Martin's Tavern on Georgetown. Wisconsin at (I think) N Street.

Kennedy proposed to Jackie there, Johnson used to eat there, Nixon used to eat there. Warm, great food and great service . . .  and genuine. Been there since the 30's or 40's.

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