Mark’s Duck House
A mostly dim sum restaurant located near the so-called seven corners area in Falls Church, Mark’s Duck House is located in a shopping area, tucked next to stores of all persuasions.
We were a bit late for lunch during the week, so most of the items we got were ordered specifically, not off a rolling cart. Among the best dishes were the shrimp-stuffed eggplant, turnip cake, and shrimp-chive fried dumping (these seemed to be dumplings that had gone south, perhaps, and been smooshed against a griddle—who knows, they were still tasty).
Ultimately, we’d learned somewhere in the past this was the place to go, but the combination of a long wait and a severely dated interior probably would have us looking elsewhere next time.
It’s not to say you won’t find some tasty items on their menu.
The area has several high-profile Chinese eateries to explore. I’m glad I’ve crossed this one off my list; it will take several more visits up to D.C. to declare any sure winners. Likely Rockville, MD will be in the cards soon.
August 10th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
This place is really a foodie hot spot when you hit it right. Night time with a reservation is best. Wine critic Robert Parker has been raving about Mark’s for years. They are quite comfortable with patrons bringing their own bottles and its not uncommon to see a lazy susan in the middle of a table covered with bottles of 94 chateauneuf de pape or young California Zins. The seafood is fresh, but the all-day dim sum is also a treat. We frequently ask if there is anything special “off menu” and have been treated to some pretty strange things - crispy duck tongue, fried pigs ear, baby octopus braised in a sweet sauce.
I wonder if your experience was all about timing?