I'm thinking about taking my girlfriend to Taberna del Alabardero for our 1 year anniversary next month. Has anyone been here? Any opinions? Thanks!

I think it is right up there with Galileo, Kinkead, & Goldoni as the most over rated, under performing restaurant in DC.(along with a lot of the steak houses)

I second that (and agree about Galileo and Kinkead as well; never been to Goldoni). It's traditional Spanish food and there's about zero competition for that kind of cuisine so they pretty much can get away with anything. I much prefer tapas when I think of Spanish food so Jaleo, Zaytinya, etc. works for me.

Taberna is not bad. Just not special. You could do far better

Just in case the first two responses weren't enough...allow me to second the notion that it's OK but you could do much better.

Thanks for the heads up. Any recommendations?

Yes, check out this site for anything and everything DC dining.

If you want to have really good French foood, nice atmospherre but not tooo posh go to Montmartre in Capitol Hill (300 block of 7th Street SE) . Easy to go by taxi, or car (no parking problems). Call ahead and tell them what they are up to...

Have the oxtail and endive salad for before's and the rabbit for main course. and then either creme brullet or ilse flotant for desert (light)..... Have a nice Burgone wine and some champagne .....

Just a thought

For blow-out (in price and in quality), consider Citronelle, CityZen or Laboratorio in the city or Maestro in the 'burbs. If the anniversary date is next month, start dialling now

For moderately-priced but outstanding food, try Firefly or Komi - the former being more romantic. 1789 is also high on romance but very traditional (food and decor). So is Vidalia.

Even less expensive but no less good or romantic is Little Fountain Cafe in Adams Morgan.

If you want buzz and don't mind the noise, Zaytinya, DC Coast, Cashion's are all good, stylish eats.

If you want unforgettable and transporting, go to Makoto - Japanese food presented in a tiny but pristine setting. It's not very romantic but it's very authentic.

It really depends on what kinda food you want and how much you want to spend.