District Home Magazine Fall II October 2014 | Page 28

R e s ta u R a n t s p o t l i g h t

firefly
burns bright
In Dupont Circle’s Culinary Scene

Located in the vibrant Dupont Circle neighborhood,
Firefly has become a hot spot and culinary
destination that attracts regulars and DC foodies
alike. With a casual vibe that is heightened by the
incredible cuisine, Firefly has created a unique
menu of American comfort food classics with a
contemporary twist.
irefly’s menus are designed to keep with each season,
focusing on sustainable ingredients and supporting
local farms and purveyors. For unparalleled freshness,
many of the ingredients are grown right there, on
the restaurant’s rooftop garden. Not only is there
a concern for sustainability but also, Firefly is committed to serving
dietary restrictions. The restaurant has long been a champion of the
gluten-free cause with a menu that offers many delicious and fun
dishes for those who suffer from celiac disease. A seasonal favorite is
Executive Chef Todd Wiss’s gluten-free ice cream sandwiches.

F

In addition to the cuisine, Bar Manager, Jon Harris, has grown the
cocktail program at Firefly to great heights with a fun and creative
menu. These handcrafted drinks also rely on local and seasonal
ingredients for unique and fresh tastes.
Behind the distinctive menu at Firefly, Chef Todd Wiss is truly the
star. Chef Todd is inspired by the idea of a melting pot, both as an
American and as a culinary concept. For him, America is a place
where he can reimagine classic dishes of culinary tradition with a
healthy spin, using fresh and seasonal ingredients. He explains, “I
believe food should represent all the varied cultures and people
of the United States…I try to build on American classics in a way
that’s approachable, seasonal and fun.”
A DC native, Chef Todd recalls happy memories of cooking with
his family, in particular making Greek classics with his grandmother
in his Glover Park kitchen. After spending summers at his
grandparents’ landmark restaurant in Williamsburg, VA, he knew
that he belonged in the restaurant industry.

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Having graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 2002,
Chef Todd Wiss brings more than 10 years of diverse experience
to Firefly. When he joined the Klimpton restaurant team, he found
mentors who further fostered his commitment to local ingredients
and high standards in the kitchen. In 2012, he started in Firefly as
Chef de Cuisine, where he helped the restaurant through a massive
renovation and built the rooftop garden with his own hands. Jus