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My family goes here about once every three months. We have never had anything to complain about ever. We've tried plenty of upscale and more expensive French places and bistros in DC, but always come back to this one because of the superior food. It's always delicious. Veal, steak, mussels... a simple and satisfying Caesar salad for Caesar conoisseurs and probably the best creme brulee I've had on this continent (again, simple and perfect). I was dissuaded from getting the perfect creme brulee in favor of some chocolate souffle that needed to be ordered in advance by forceful recommendation. I've never experienced anything like it, so light and airy with a slight egg flavor and rich chocolate goodness. You break the souffle and pour in vanilla sauce for even more creamy deliciousness. It is purely amazing and divine. If you want the DC bistro "scene," maybe go elsewhere, but for the experience of being at a real French bistro, come to La Chaumiere. The food is classic and it is exquisitely done.

Dark wood panelling, earnest and not intrusive conversation around about, you. It's comforting just to walk in, and you can imagine Dean Atcheson walking in at any moment. But casual dress is accepted too. A friend and I wandered in, were seated precisely on time, and had fun dealing with the wait staff in our bad French. What followed was a celebration of chloesterol: appetizers: quenelles (unbelieably light), I got a half-portion of sauteed calves' brains (normally an entree) entrees: both of us had a wonderful dish of tripes de a la mode Caen and finally dessert: souffles grand marnier, with custard sauce. Plus a good bottle of red followed by great coffee. Nothing rushed, nothing pushed La Chaumiere wants to make you happy. Price wasn't bad either. The only cautions offered are get in around 7 PM, and check first as to whether the specials listed are being prepared that night.