2006 Fall Dining Guide
By Tom Sietsema
Washington Post Magazine
Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006

It's impossible not to break into a smile at Jackie's. Everything from the miniature "Elvis" burgers to the groovy interior conspires to put you in a light mood. From the exhibition kitchen flow all sorts of interestingcombinations: a rainbow of roasted peppers served with fat yucca fries and a rousing cilantro dip, fried mussels bound in shredded phyllo and "nostalgia" plates that change with the day. Count me a fan of Sunday's snowy catfish, flanked with cooked greens and hush puppies. But not even its chimichurri sauce can rescue the bland steak. There's more to praise than to pan in this former garage turned warmhearted dining room, including a Monday night happy hour that stars cold fried chicken, roast beef sandwiches and flights of wine in the bar. Save space for the carrot cake, served in a generous wedge with orange-flavored frosting. And save time to chat up co-owner and hostess Jackie Greenbaum, whose bubbly charm matches the bright pink sign outside.

Jackie's Backroom made a splash last month when its closing bash for Silverdocs drew about 400 people. But over the past couple of years, the room -- literally the back of Jackie's Restaurant -- has hosted a mix of art exhibitions, theater and concerts (when the space isn't being used for private parties).

"It appeals to our creative instincts," says Jackie Greenbaum, a co-owner of Jackie's who is also a painter and a former D.C. punk-scene stalwart. There is a perk to this space: It has a bar.

The season ahead includes an exhibition of collages by Exene Cervenka (of the legendary punk band X), a show of rock photography, a book talk and maybe some exotic hula-hooping. "I like spectacles," Greenbaum says. "Whatever we think would be fun, we'll try."

When you should go: A benefit "yard sale" Saturday from 5 to 11 p.m. will feature paintings and glassware, vintage furniture; cocktails; and DJ Chris Burns. Free. On Aug. 1 from 2 to 7 p.m. there will be a lineup of female bands including OmegaBand and the Revelevens to benefit the Young Women's Project. Admission is $6.

-- Lavanya Ramanathan (July 24, 2009)