Forget all of that political nonsense; Washingtonians are in love with food.

And Team Glittarazzi is in love with Bayou.

There's just something magical about Cajun and Creole cooking. Maybe it's the history, maybe it's the culture behind it, or maybe it's the spicy, smoky deliciousness in every mouthful.

We went to Bayou last Wednesday, which is "Gator Night."

That's right, folks. You can eat fresh gator in the Swamp Capitol. (Washington, D.C., was built on swampland ... haven't you heard?)

Upon stepping into the venue, we were seduced by its charm. Photographs and paintings of various locations in New Orleans and jazz themes were along the walls. The walls themselves are a warm purple tone and the lighting is soft yet inviting. We thought the condiment containers -- made from old Punch cigar boxes -- were an extra cute touch.

Here's what we had: The Sazerac (New Orleans' official cocktail), Gumbo of the Day, Gator & Grits (with spinach, mushrooms and andouille sausage).

What we noticed: The gumbo has a delicious meatiness to it. Then, after a few bites, the real flavor unlocks in your mouth with just a hint of heat.

The "Gator & Grits" dish (a different "Gator Dish" is offered every Wednesday) was delicious as well. The meat was the perfect tenderness, and mixed with the grits had a certain smoky flavor -- especially if you got a mouthful with the sausage.

We don't normally like grits, but these had a consistency more in line with mashed potatoes than the runny kind of grits we're used to -- hats off to Head Chef Rusty Holman.

Aside from the food, Bayou is a great venue for music.

Every week (Wednesday through Saturday), there's live "dining jazz," starting at 7:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. On Friday and Saturday, starting at 10 p.m. is when the headlining bands perform -- some are even imported from New Orleans.

So, whether you're sitting down for a good family meal, or are feeling like a touch of live Cajun music, all we know is that Bayou's the place. And, we'll be back.

---

Bayou on Penn
2519 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
Washington, D.C.
Twitter: @bayoudc
Online: http://www.bayouonpenn.com
Happy hour: 4 to 7:30 p.m. ($2 PBR/Bud, $4 Po'Boy sliders)
Venue photos: http://www.bayouonpenn.com/www/gallery.html