New Hampshire Avenue, NW
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. Firefly’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. 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. 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. Just one year later, he was promoted to Executive Chef, the position he holds today.
For Todd Wiss, “food is culture.” Through his menu items, he lets each ingredient tell a story while his dishes bring people and families together.
In coming years, with its unique culinary experience, Firefly will only continue to grow in success and succulence.
