From DCist Contributor Oscar Bunoan

It’s often said that bad luck comes in threes. In Vietnam, for example, a photo of three people represents bad luck. However, Vietnam is a restless, 22-hour flight away and Greg Cahill (owner of the successful Whitlow’s on Wilson) and Jonathan Williams (Whitlow’s general manager) are not superstitious men who rest their beliefs in ancient folklore. No self-respecting restaurateur, especially these two locally respected entrepreneurs, would conceive their restaurant on the premise of misguided hope. Besides, the reasoning behind Restaurant 3’s name is neither as profound as its numerical history suggests nor is it rooted in a particular cultural belief system.

Instead, this establishment represents a third venture in dining for the Cahill/Williams duo, and with restoration plans by Arlington County to reshape Clarendon into an “Urban Village“, Restaurant 3 just might prove to be the anchor for all subsequent development projects in the immediate area. It certainly fits the mold of urbanity to a tee. You need look no further than the bold, red “3” emblazoned above the entrance, the floor-to-ceiling windows, or the twenty-something flock of socialites congregated on the bar-side patio.

Restaurant 3’s décor is a mix of old-world classy meets new-world chic. This pastiche of past and present is obviously inspired by Chef Brian Robinson’s three-course menu: new millennium touches on old, American favorites. Complimentary baked bread served with whipped butter and a creamy garlic dip gets things going, and is an ideal way to whet one’s appetite. The drinks list showcases a little bit of everything as well: signature cocktails, new world wines, and various microbrews from across the nation. Although the list is somewhat limited, the attention to American winemakers and hops masters is rather impressive. However, I must point out that if a restaurant goes to the trouble of announcing the use of locally sourced produce, it would be nice to know the particular growers responsible.