DC's Best New Restaurants and Bars

Welcome to our rolling list of all the best new restaurants opening in the District!

March 2026

Two new homestyle Italian spots are opening on opposite sides of D.C. this month along with a Korean-American cafe and a meaty revamp of José Andrés’ Waldorf Astoria restaurant.

Is that *sniff* Parmesan? Two new homestyle Italian spots are opening on opposite sides of D.C. this month along with a Korean-American cafe and a meaty revamp of José Andrés’ Waldorf Astoria restaurant.

Capitano (The Wharf)

This unfussy, coastal Italian spot just soft launched inside the Canopy Hotel at The Wharf. Housemade pastas, Neapolitan pizzas, fresh grilled fish, and sunny spritzes are all served in a bright open dining room meant to resemble a quaint Italian piazza. And the floor to ceiling windows and views of the water do feel a bit like Venice. I’m begging you, don’t skip the tiramisu for dessert.

Bazaar Meat by José Andrés (Downtown)

José Andrés’ acclaimed steakhouse Bazaar Meat is replacing his other restaurant, The Bazaar, in the Waldorf Astoria. The menu is centered around premium cuts and theatrical dining. Think bone-in New York strip, Japanese Wagyu, and even a whole suckling pig for those looking to dine communally. Signature Bazaar dishes — like the cotton candy foie gras and caviar cone — will remain on the menu alongside a jamón bar, raw bar, and cocktail program.

Downtowner Delicatssen (Downtown)

Downtown office workers everywhere cried when Poppabox closed last year. But now from the ashes comes this all-day Korean-American cafe with bibimbap, cup noodles, katsu, and cream donuts. They are soft-launching until March 10 before opening officially.

Canton Disco (Navy Yard)

This new Cantonese spot that opened late last month serves Chinese-style breakfast sandwiches and congee in the morning and transforms into a disco parlor with full plates at night. Get the roast duck or the honey char siu along with $12 specialty cocktails under the spinning disco ball.

Ulivo (Park View)

Opened by a former banker, nothing costs more than $30 at this casual Italian spot in Park View — including the steak. Nick Perkins, formerly of Petite Cerise, leads the kitchen and the concise menu is full of comforting classics like Caesar salad, rigatoni, and bread pudding. The drink menu is mostly different takes on negronis and spritzes, because what else do you need?

The Bombay Canteen (Alexandria)

A love letter to the streets of Bombay, steel plates clink and chai simmers endlessly at this new Indian street food spot in Alexandria. The menu features bhel puri, vada pav, and layered chaats, alongside classics like butter chicken and biryani. The interior screams 90s with Bollywood posters lining the walls and fried dishes served in newspaper.

February 2026

While some people have a “TBR" (to be read) list , I have a “TBE” (to be eaten) list , and this month it is absolutely stacked. From Nikkei-style hand rolls to celeb cocktail bars to pour-over coffee, these are D.C. best new spots to try.

Maru San (Eastern Market)

This moody, 25-seat counter restaurant by Chef Carlos Delgado of Causa specializes in Nikkei-style hand rolls — a Japanese immigrant-inspired cuisine from Peru. Think cigar-sized handrolls with fillings like ceviche, fatty tuna, and scallops with parmesan sauce. It opens on Feb. 20 and is primarily walk-in only.

Elegancia (Union Market)

Opening Feb. 8 at La Cosecha, this cocktail bar is the brainchild of actor Wilmer Valderrama (from “That '70s Show”) and Colada Shop co-founder Daniella Senior. It draws inspo from Latin American traditions and communal hospitality and will serve complimentary hangover soup at last call.

CIVIC. On Eighth (Barracks Row)

This new cafe refers to itself as a “neighborhood salon.” By day it is a sun-lit cafe serving Swing’s coffee and pastries from Souk. Then after 4 p.m. it turns into a cocktail bar. Currently only the cafe is open, with bar operations coming soon.

Taco Taco by Cranes (Downtown)

Inspired by Cranes’ sold-out taco omakase collab, Chef Pepe Moncayo is transforming Cranes into a high-energy taqueria by day. The casual lunch menu combines Spanish and Japanese flavors into tacos like chicken karaage with napa cabbage and togarashi crema, garlic shrimp a la plancha with chili oil, and koji-marinated skirt steak with salsa macha and lime. If you go between 11-11:45 a.m. you get a free taco!

Black Crown Coffee Collective (Capitol Hill)

Real D.C. coffee snobs know Black Crown has been pumping out the best espresso on Capitol Hill for a while, but their gorgeous new cafe space on the 2nd floor of the Cannon House Office Building has brought it to a new level. You do have to pass security to get in. But, it’s worth it.

Red Lantern (H Street)

Located above Sushi Sato, this cocktail and karaoke lounge has $1 dumplings after midnight to keep the party going. Cocktails include a matcha martini, a miso whiskey sour, and a deadly long Thailand iced tea.

PubKey (Penn Quarter)

Aka the Bitcoin bar (don’t worry, they also take card), this part dive bar, part tech hub is one of the oddest establishments we’ve been to. The massive space hosts two bars, a huge stage, a podcast studio, and bitcoin think tank offices. The drinks are strong and everything is fried in beef tallow.

January 2026

January is a notoriously slow month for D.C.’s restaurant scene, but there are still a few great new places to check out, including showy steakhouses, a bitcoin bar, and several additional locations of D.C. favorites.

Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse (Rockville)

This massive new Gaúcho-style restaurant features traditional flavors from southern Brazil. Choose from different fire-roasted cuts of beef, lamb, or pork carved tableside as part of the price-fixed experience. They also have more untraditional options like bacon-wrapped chicken breasts, beer marinated chicken drumsticks, or grilled shrimp finished with a passionfruit and mango glaze.

Churasuko (Tysons)

Have you ever eaten at a Japanese-Brazilian steakhouse? Me neither, but I’m excited to try. One of the first of its kind in the country, Churasuko combines Japanese and Brazilian dishes with options like tableside shaved wagyu and sashimi, Brazilian cheese bread with gochujang, seafood towers, and fusion cocktails.

Taquería Xochi (Navy Yard)

This will be the fourth and largest location of this female-founded, Mexican street food joint. Besides their classic cemitas, tlayudas, and tacos, this location will also have new items like a steak trompo and a lineup of house-made paletas. The bar includes a Mexican-inspired espresso martini and the “Mai Horcha-Tai,” a tiki cocktail with Mexican spirits and house-made horchata orgeat. Yum.

Springbone Kitchen (Georgetown)

Fast-casual NYC chain Springbone Kitchen opened its first D.C. location in Georgetown in December. The menu includes grain bowls with housemade hot sauce, but the highlight is definitely the plethora of cozy bone broths that come in potable coffee cups. My favorite thing I got there was the bone broth hot chocolate. Don’t knock it til you try it.

Pubkey Bar (Penn Quarter)

This unassuming tavern — dubbed D.C.’s crypto bar — is 50% dive bar, 50% crypto think tank, and 100% nightmare first date spot. The tallow-fried bar menu includes burgers, half-smokes, and chopped cheese sandwiches, crab cakes and a $100 tiki drink only purchasable through bitcoin. But the cocktails are admittedly good, and it does open at 11 a.m.

JINYA Ramen Bar (Georgetown)

JINYA is opening yet another D.C. location next week, but it’s okay because we can’t get enough. Rich ramen broths, dumplings, creative cocktails, and affordable prices make it a welcome addition to the Georgetown food scene.

Cork Wine Bar (Cleveland Park)

Logan Circle standby wine bar just opened a new location in Cleveland Park with their famous avocado toast, outrageous charcuterie spreads, and a wine list as long as your arm.

November 2025

Restaurant openings are slowing down as we approach the holidays, but there are still some gems, including an already beloved neighborhood bar, a build your own pasta joint, and the return of Compass Rose’s legendary khachapuri.

Eebee’s (Shaw)

There is nothing more comforting than a classic neighborhood joint, and Eebee’s does this really, really well. Cozy leather booths, classic cocktails, and an eight-ounce cheeseburger that can compete with D.C.’s best. “I want to be [Shaw’s] ‘Cheers,’” said owner Emily Brown.

Sook (14th St. Corridor)

When Compass Rose closed back in May, I was inconsolable. But restaurateur Rose Previte is back with a new cafe concept in the same space. Previte says Sook is a “more grown-up version of Compass Rose,” where people can hang out, work, or grab coffee and breakfast. And most importantly, khachapuri is back on the menu. Currently only open for breakfast and lunch.

Pop's Bagels (Mt. Pleasant)

Call Your Mother finally has some competition. This bagel joint just opened its second location in Mt. Pleasant beside La Tejana. (Sadly, it hasn’t made a dent in breakfast taco spots’ weekend lines.) Definitely go for one of their breakfast sandwiches, they are generous with the lox.

Juneberry Garage (Takoma)

The owners of Midlands and Ivy and Coney just opened this new retro tavern inside an old Walter Reed mechanic shop. Big garage doors open onto a lawn where the menu includes Chicago-style tavern pizzas, halfsmokes, hot toddy’s, and homemade soda.

Ingle Korean Steakhouse (14th St. Corridor)

This high-end Korean barbecue restaurant is opening their second location, this time in D.C. at the former Nama Ko space. The D.C. location, which will be overseen by James Jang of Donbury, will focus on prix-fixe menus and specialty cuts from American wagyu farms. Besides beef, the menu also has a variety of traditional Korean dishes like doenjang jjigae, chilled buckwheat noodles, and octopus salad.

Gigi’s Pasta (Foggy Bottom)

Build-your-own pasta bowls? Say less. This new stall in Western Market specializes in made-to-order pasta with shapes I’ve never heard of and sauces from pesto to arrabbiata. Throw in a cannoli and a bottled Aperol spritz and you’ve got yourself a perfect evening.

Live-K Karaoke (National Harbor)

D.C. is getting another karaoke bar (never enough, if you ask me). Live-K is opening its second location in National Harbor with 24 futuristic private karaoke rooms, family entertainment, and even weekend brunch. Some of the rooms can host up to 40 people, essentially your own private club.

October 2025

This month has some of the most fun openings D.C. has seen in a while. A karaoke bar, a hot dog stand, an Irish pub, and an oyster bar with a side of cowbell. That’s all your basic food groups covered!

Cowbell Seafood and Oyster (Union Market)

The definition of great things come in small packages. This bar-seating-only stall in Union Market is shucking some of D.C.’s best oysters and serving seafood and fried chicken with homemade sauces you’ll be thinking about for weeks (the Virginia gold bbq in my case). Be sure to ask about their current selection of oysters. Chef Reid will tell you exactly where they come from and how they are raised.

Singing Tiger (Union Market)

IMO, a city can never have too many karaoke bars, and Singing Tiger, which opened last week on the bottom floor of Hotel Nell, is a welcome addition. There are showy Asian-inspired cocktails and three cozy karaoke rooms, with a menu that’s a step up from your typical karaoke bar, featuring dishes like Korean fried chicken wings, dan dan noodles, gyudon, and, my favorite, a braised pork belly bun.

Realm Rooftop Bar (Mt. Vernon)

Opening on Oct. 30, Realm Rooftop Bar’s skyline view and outdoor fireplaces set it apart from your typical rooftop bar. The menu is Seychelles and Creole-inspired with dishes like tamarind-glazed lamb, smoked lemongrass chicken and cassava roti short rib tacos gracing the menu.

Proper Bar (Mt. Vernon)

The founders of Proper 21 just launched Proper Bar, an American bistro with craft cocktails and live piano. The menu is more upscale than Proper 21 with seasonally inspired dishes and cocktails, including cozy pastas, seasonal vegetables, and, of course, their perfectly simple Proper Bar burger. The space is also bougier, with green velvet couches, a marble bar, and golden mid-century accents.

Shysters Hot Dog Stand (NoMa)

This new hot dog stand at 1st and M NE — “the only honest ripoff in D.C.” — is the realized dream of a furloughed IRS lawyer. The menu options include “correct hot dog” which comes with sauerkraut and mustard for $10 or “hot dog with the wrong toppings” for $11. You can also top it off with chips or a Moon Pie. Hours are “sometimes on weekdays” and “at my convenience.”

The Harp Cask and Kiln (Brookland)

This modern Irish pub found a home on the Northeast corner that long housed Brookland’s Finest. Expect green booths, properly poured Guinness (for splitting the G of course), and pub fare like shepherd’s pie, Irish biscuits, and fish & chips.

Mi Pana Riff Raff Room (Adams Morgan)

Adams Morgan stalwart Johnny Pistolas is making room for a new Latin gastropub called Mi Pana and adjacent speakeasy cocktail bar Riff Raff Room. Mi Pana’s menu will be a fusion of Venezuelan, Cuban, and Puerto Rican dishes, while Riff Raff Room — led by award-winning mixologist Jon Schott — serves creative boozy and non-alcoholic options.

September 2025

The Union Market neighborhood is absolutely exploding with new spots, adding a new country bar, pizza joint, upscale speakeasy/restaurant, and more in just the last few weeks. But there are lots of other openings around the District to look forward to this month, including two Northwest spots: Acqua Bistecca in Tenleytown and the revival of beloved izakaya, Shibuya, in Chevy Chase.

Eunoia (Union Market District)

One of the most anticipated openings of the year, Eunoia is led by Mexico City chef Josa Maldonado. The menu emphasizes fermentation, scratch cooking, and local produce through dishes like seaweed mole with potato miso and chicken skin, smoked striped bass with adobo, and for dessert, kakigori with a cherry kombucha balsamic and churros. 

Manifest 002 (Union Market District)

Manifest’s second and much larger location has two floors packed with a menswear boutique, restaurant, café, barbershop, and hidden speakeasy. The culinary program is led by Maketto’s Erik Bruner-Yang, so you know it’s fire. The menu is D.C.-centric with baked oysters Rockefeller sourced from Maryland, Ethiopian-inspired white Bolognese, and a mambo sauce cocktail.

Shibuya Eatery 2.0 (Chevy Chase)

Adams Morgan's beloved Shibuya is rising from the ashes in the form of a fast-casual izakaya in Chevy Chase. Expect drool-worthy donburi and bowls with chef-y touches, like homemade broth, cooked to order proteins, and artfully pickled veggies. "Think Cava, but Japanese," the owners told Axios.

Barrel House (Logan Circle)

The iconic barrel facade on 14th Street NW has housed more than a few business concepts, but the latest is this cafe and bar from the Wundergarten team. They’ve hosted a series of soft-openings over the last few months, but it’s now open full time featuring a garden, lunch menu, and a packed events calendar.

Acqua Bistecca (Tenleytown)

This glam Italian steakhouse is the newest concept from chef Michael Mina of Bourbon Steak. The menu is divided into two sections, aqua (all things seafood) and bistecca (steaks). Think whole black bass, chargrilled flat iron steak, house-made pastas, and colorful crudo.

Desert 5 Spot (Union Market District)

Yeehaw 🤠 Desert 5 Spot describes itself as bringing the “rustic allure of Pioneertown and Cosmic Americana” to D.C. The new Union Market country bar has two floors with space for line dancing, bull riding, a cactus garden, and a DJ booth in the back of an old Chevy truck. Don’t sleep on cowboy karaoke night.

Taste of Lucy (Union Market)

This bite-sized version of chef Giulio Adriani’s Italian cocktail bar Lucy, will serve Neapolitan-style pizzas, rotating pastas, and selections from Lucy’s OG bar menu. More importantly, they have a daily happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m. The restaurant shares the space with the second location of Detroit-style pizza joint Slice & Pie (who are from the same owners).

August 2025

Restaurant reservations have plummeted in D.C. since the federal takeover, but that doesn’t mean there aren't new spots worth checking out if you can. This month a couple Argentinian-inspired spots are opening in Georgetown, an Indian street-food joint comes to NoMA, and a beloved Filipino restaurant reopens.

Kayu (Dupont Circle)

After closing on H Street at the end of June, chef Paolo Dungca’s Filipino restaurant Kayu is officially back! This time with a more casual streamlined menu featuring items like sweet corn agnolotti, cassava cake with crab fat, ube bao buns, and silken tofu for dessert. Top it all off with a tamarind margarita.

Chai Pani (Union Market)

This James Beard Award-winning street food spot is finally opening its first D.C. location at Union Market on Aug. 29. The Asheville-based Indian street food restaurant brings dishes like okra fries, bhel puri, kale pakoras, and uttapam to the forefront in an intentionally over-the-top technicolor space.

Diosa (14th Street NW)

Hidden under MXDC on 14th St. NW, this new Latin-inspired cocktail lounge goes crazy for mezcal, moody lighting, and Instagram-worthy design. The space is constantly hosting live entertainment, Latin dance classes, queer parties, and themed music nights.

Floreria Atlántico (Georgetown)

One of Argentina’s most iconic cocktail bars is landing in D.C. later this month, along with its sister restaurant Brasero Atlántico. The bar greets guests with a flower and wine shop before leading them speakeasy-style through the refrigerator door to the cocktail bar. The adjoining restaurant focuses on rustic open-fire cooking, preserved veggies, and empanadas.

Flor. Coffee + Books (Georgetown)

This Buenos Aires-inspired café and bookshop opened Monday and offers a little oasis above busy Georgetown. Their coffee is a specialized blend roasted by Grace Street Coffee Roasters and the nitro matcha is *chefs kiss*. The menu is crafted by Chef Jovana Urriola of Café Unido and offers Argentinian empanadas, chipás, sandwiches, bowls, and pastries.

JINYA Ramen Bar (The Wharf)

D.C.’s beloved ramen bar is opening its newest location at The Wharf today. Besides all the classic ramen and izakaya dishes, this location will also offer a special late night menu, taco Tuesdays, and an expanded alcohol menu. P.S. The first 100 guests will receive a voucher to eat free during their next visit!

Gordon Ramsay's Street Burger (Downtown)

First there was Street Pizza, and now below it we are getting a Street Burger, all by the famously short-tempered celebrity chef. This location is the first in the U.S. and the menu features smash burgers, dirty fries, wings, and hand-spun shakes.

July 2025

There are lots of new openings this month from some of D.C.’s favorite restaurateurs, including two spots by Tim Ma and a fried chicken concept by the folks at Shilling Canning Company.

Sushi Sato (H Street NE)

All-you-can-eat sushi was non-existent in D.C. until now. This new spot by Tim Ma offers $55 and $75 all-you-can-eat menus for 90-minutes. Expect all the classic rolls as well as some funky ones like an In-N-Out burger roll and some izakaya options.

Taco Cat (Foggy Bottom)

Tim Ma is at it once again. This new Taco joint in Western Market just opened with breakfast tacos till 11 a.m., plus creative options like a shabu steak taco with caramelized onions and a tuna taco with a crispy nori shell.

Selva (Dupont)

Chef and El Salvadoran native Giovanni Orellana is reimagining Latin American classics at this new Dupont spot, opening on July 10. Grilled sardines, fried plantains, and beef empanadas are all on the menu along with specialty tropical cocktails by industry bar veteran Dennis Garcia.

Fancy Ranch Amish Chicken (Union Market)

This fried chicken pop-up from the team behind Shilling Canning Company is operating out of Union Market for the summer. The star of the show is obviously the buttermilk fried Amish chicken, but the cornbread waffle and plethora of sauces are not to be missed.

Karravaan (Union Market)

This new endeavor from the creators of Logan Circle’s Pappe features cuisines from across the Silk Road trade route, including Persian, Portuguese, Indian, and Turkish dishes. Think momo’s, khachapuri, za’atar fries, and complementary naan.

Xi’an Famous Foods (Alexandria)

NYC’s cult Chinese chain famous for its hand-pulled noodles just opened a ghost kitchen in Four Mile Food Co. in Alexandria. Try the spicy cumin lamb noodles or the spicy and sour spinach dumplings. There is no seating but Four Mile Run Park is close by.

June 2025

As D.C. mourns the loss of Beuchert’s Saloon on Capitol Hill, it’s consoling to know we’ve got some exciting stuff coming to town. A New York bagel joint and even more upscale sushi, to name a few 😋

Marcus DC (NoMa)

NYC chef Marcus Samuelsson just opened his latest restaurant at The Morrow Hotel, blending modern American cooking with Black culinary traditions from D.C. to Ethiopia. Think mambo-sauce roast chicken, crab with rice and pickled okra, and blue cornbread with berbere honey.

Sushi Gaku (Georgetown)

Georgetown is blowing up with sushi lately and Sushi Gaku is the latest contender. Located in a cozy basement off M Street, chef Yoshi Ota’s newest spot will serve traditional and modern takes on sushi, including the elusive and slightly scary pufferfish.

H&H Bagels (Mount Vernon Triangle)

This quintessential New York City bagel shop — featured in “Sex and the City” and “Seinfeld” — is coming to D.C. on June 12. The bagels are proofed, kettle-boiled, then oven-baked on site every day. Call Your Mother better watch out.

Tarì Trattoria (Union market District)

This Amalfi Coast-inspired restaurant is set to open mid-June on the ground floor of The Gantry. It will feature locally-sourced seafood alongside fish from Italy and Japan dry-aged onsite, shareable aperitivo snacks, and housemade pastas.

May 2025

This month, old favorites are reimagined and new creative concepts come to life in D.C.'s culinary space.

Mélange Foods (Shaw)

D.C. Chef Elias Taddesse reopened his fan-favorite restaurants, Mélange and Doro Soul Food, under one roof (with a third concept coming soon). Doro Soul Food may just be the best fried chicken in D.C. (IMHO), while Mélange DC serves Ethiopian American style burgers and handspun milkshakes.

Lucky Danger (Penn Quarter)

Renowned D.C. chef Tim Ma is transforming his COVID-era Chinese American take-out concept, Lucky Danger, into a new full-service restaurant and community hangout in Penn Quarter. It’s got a completely new menu, cocktail bar, and high-tech mahjong parlor at the back. “It’s like an upscale version of my house,” Ma told us.

Lobby Bar (Barracks Row)

A new all-American concept is now open in the old Boxcar Tavern space with an extensive raw bar, smash burgers, and unique martini program. Try the Maryland crab cakes with a caper brine dirty martini.

April 2025

The announcement of Tail Up Goat’s upcoming closure has been a hard pill to swallow, but there are plenty of other potential new gems opening this month. I’m particularly excited about My Little Chamomile 🌼

My Little Chamomile (Georgetown)

The folks behind the award-winning Green Almond Pantry just opened this homey Turkish restaurant. The small but powerful menu is driven by daily specials but often includes dishes like manti dumplings, lamb skewers, and stuffed grape leaves.

Himalayan Wild Yak (Ballston)

The second location of this family-style nepalese restaurant (the first was in Ashburn) features yak prominently on the menu — from yak momos to yak korma. But it also serves a mix of classic dishes from China, India, and family Nepali dishes they grew up with.

Fish Shop (The Wharf)

Opening today, this popular Scottish fish restaurant will carry seafood of all shapes and sizes from throughout the Mid-Atlantic. The menu includes local oysters, clams, smoked trout, and Dupont Circle farmer's market radishes.

Bar Angie (West End)

From the owners of Balos, this day-to-night restaurant is inspired by classic New York-style bistros. Think raw bar, caesar salad, steak frites, and ice cold matinis. They also have live music several times a week.

Sly at The Morrow Hotel (NoMa)

Honestly, the food barely matters when your restaurant is located on a rooftop with 360-degree views of Washington, D.C., but luckily the menu is also stacked. Creative cocktails, doro wat empanadas, crab cakes, and doughnuts as a few examples.

Tango Pastry (H St. NE)

This newly opened traditional Argentine cafe pumps out freshly baked empanadas, breads, alfajores, pastries, and more. They also have the cutest tea sandwiches to go with your coffee.

March 2025

The slow winter season is behind us and a rush of new D.C. restaurants is finally here. The much-anticipated Bar Betsie and Tapori certainly live up to the hype. But perhaps the most unlikely excitement is surrounding the return of beloved burger chain Fuddruckers to Chinatown.

Tapori (H Street NE)

Chef Suresh Sundas and Bar Director Dante Datta, the owners of Daru, have spent the last two years dreaming up this South Asian street food restaurant. They want diners to feel like they are eating at a bustling street food market, with dishes ranging from Southern India to Nepal, Sundas’s native country, and cocktails made with imported Indian spirits. Do not sleep on the lotus root chaat.

Elmina (14th St. NW)

“Top Chef” contestant and cookbook author Eric Adjepong just opened this new West African restaurant. Diners can choose between the $135 tasting menu or get bites at the bar. The menu highlights traditional food like fufu, kelewele, and oxtail as fine dining dishes.

Bar Betsie (Union Market)

Jane Jane’s anticipated D.C. sibling scores top points for vibes. The moody cabaret-style bar has cozy wooden booths and a dramatic neon light curtain that sets the backdrop for Puerto Rican-inspired cocktails and all-American drinking snacks.

Sagrada (14th Street NW)

This fine-dining concept restaurant explores the transformative power of psychedelics — through food. No actual psilocybin is used, but the tasting menu is meant to mirror the stages of a psychedelic trip and trigger sensory shifts. The exact eight-course menu itself remains a mystery until arrival but features ingredients like duck, cacao, hibiscus, and pumpkin. A portion of proceeds supports Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research.

Fuddruckers (Chinatown)

Chinatown is sooo back. And by that I mean Fuddruckers is reopening (on the same block no less) with its grill-to-order burgers and Oreo shakes. Just in time for March Madness. (Opens March 20)

Occidental (Downtown)

D.C. restaurateur Stephen Starr has completely revamped the historic Occidental restaurant. Originally opened in 1906 just two blocks from the White House, the dining room is known for serving D.C.’s political elite. Now, Starr has outfitted it with stunning green and yellow velvet furnishings and a new menu with midcentury American classics and tableside martini service.

Whitlows (The Wharf)

The U Street watering hole is opening up a second location at The Wharf with a familiar menu and a massive patio overlooking the Potomac. Also get ready for their huge tiki-style Whitlow’s party boat, which will dock out front come spring. (Opens March 21)

Onggi (Dupont)

This upscale ode to Korean “Jeong” cuisine has set meals and traditional a la carte bites like galbi, grilled abalone, kimbap, and pumpkin porridge. They also boast refreshing tales on traditional cocktails icing spirits like makgeolli and soju. Official opening is April 1, but soft opening was March 14.

February 2025

Buffalo and Bergen (Cleveland Park)

A new location just opened for this fresh shipped-from-Queens New York bagel shop. Their menu features everything from capers and lox to pastrami and brisket. Plus, they offer varied coffee and cocktail options.

Willowsong (The Wharf)

The new flagship restaurant at the Intercontinental on the Wharf focuses on American cuisine sourced with hyper-local products from farms throughout the DMV. Think crispy prawn and calamari from the bay, and dry-aged sirloin from Virginia and Maryland.

The Muni (14th Street NW)

It’s a Jetsons version of a mid-century golf club with state-of-the-art golf simulators, interactive darts, and laser-projector-enhanced putting greens. The warm brick interior and clean design is a great place for a cocktail, craft pizza, or a quick game.

Life Alive (West End)

This organic-forward lunch spot just opened in the West End last month. They offer everything from grain bowls to açaí, salads to ramen — all focused on natural, healthy ingredients.

Dupont Coffee Collective (Dupont Circle)

This new coffee spot just opened up where Firehook used to be. Founders Jessica Reyes and Rakesh Varma emphasize that their collective centers on community-building.

Alta Strada (Embassy Row)

James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Schlow started this Italian restaurant in Boston. Its success meant the chain has expanded down the eastern seaboard, and has finally arrived in D.C., serving Italian-inspired breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Elmina (14th Street NW)

Chef Eric Adjepong just opened his contemporary Ghanian restaurant yesterday, which features a four-course tasting menu and brunch options. The smoked bone marrow and fufu look especially delicious.

January 2025

New year, new restaurants. If one of your new year’s goals was to eat out less, you should probably skip this newsletter, because January is packed with new fun spots to eat, including a DIY ramen bar and a dart-throwing pub.

Mikey & Mel's (Downtown)

Old-school Jewish delicatessen Mikey & Mel’s opened its first D.C. location this month by Farragut North. The menu includes classics like fresh bagels, truly massive pastrami sandwiches, matzo ball soup, and best of all, a serve-yourself pickle bar.

Alara (Georgetown)

This long-anticipated upscale Mediterranean restaurant is finally opening in Georgetown this month. Ottoman Taverna’s chef Hakan Ilhan is opening Alara with a slightly different focus. It will feature classic hot and cold meze but will feature seasonal menu items, specifically seafood.

Flight Club (Mt. Vernon)

This new social dart-throwing pub is the perfect spot to get out all that after-work stress. Modeled after an old-school English pub, it has over a dozen dart-playing stations, a full bar menu, and bites like lobster dips, elote, and cotton candy.

The Ramyun Zip (Foggy Bottom)

An express version of this DIY ramen bar opened yesterday in the downtown fast-casual spot Poppabox. The restaurant has a collection of instant noodle packs, a deluxe toppings bar, and ramen-cooking machines so you can mix and match your way to your ideal noodle bowl.

Bamboo Bar (Cleveland Park)

Grab a panda-colada at D.C.’s newest themed pop-up bar in Duke’s Counter. Just in time for the giant panda reveal at the National Zoo, this bar is filled with nods to the friendly giants like “Bao-zy” hot chocolate with bourbon and the “Don’t Forget the Red Panda” (RIP Rusty) with lychee and raspberry liqueurs. All served in panda mugs, of course.

Sost (Shaw)

This hybrid concept has three levels; a cafe, restaurant, and vinyl lounge. The founders — a Eritrean-Ethiopian sibling trio — wanted the space to celebrate the African diaspora, which comes out in dishes like the Berber-Q chicken and akara fritters. They also have live music or DJs most days.

December 2024

Restaurant openings are slowing down for the season, but there's still lots happening in D.C.’s burbs, including a halal taquería in Alexandria and a build-your-own pasta spot in Tysons. On the downside, ​​Chef Cedric Maupillier’s beloved French eatery Convivial is closing after almost 10 years.

Arrels (Chinatown)

Located in the Arlo Hotel, Chef Pepe Moncayo's new Catalan-inspired concept takes full advantage of its charcoal grill, infusing traditional dishes with smokey, home-cooked flavor. The menu includes Conejo y Alcachofa (rabbit with artichokes), seafood paella, croquetas, and churros with Espelette pepper chocolate sauce.

Minetta Tavern (Union Market)

Hailing all the way from Greenwich Village, the legendary Minetta Tavern opened yesterday in an alley near Union Market. The adorable New York-style tavern is known for its vintage feel and Parisian menu, serving up New York Strip, bone marrow, and its famous Black Label burger.

Elena James (Chevy Chase)

This casual all-day restaurant comes from the owners of Nina May and Opal and is serving all American classics done right. They will have a counter-service cafe for breakfast and lunch and an evening dining room serving Olive Garden-style breadsticks, patty melts, Old Bay duck wings, dino nuggets, and banana splits.

El Taller del Xiquet (Glover Park)

Chef Danny Lledó just opened this new 14-seat dining “laboratory” on the first floor of Xiquet. Here, you can try Lledó’s refined Spanish cooking à la carte style. The restaurant’s inaugural menu offers specialties from coastal Spain like Ibèric ham paella, a bustling cheese cart, sea bass gravlax, and chocolate mouse with coconut caviar.

Scolapasta (Tysons Corner)

This new spot in Tysons Galleria does one thing: fresh-made pasta. Chef Roshan Ashiq, who previously helmed the kitchen at Il Canale in Georgetown, is bringing this fun new concept to life. Customers build their own pasta dish, choosing from traditional pasta shapes and homemade sauces like cacio e pepe, ragu alla bolognese, pesto, and pomodoro.

La Tingeria (Alexandria)

This viral food-truck-turned-Falls Church-taqueria opened its second location at the Port City Brewery in Alexandria last week. Chef David Peña’s eateries specialize in certified halal Mexican food. Try the goat birria, chicken tinga, and Halal pastor tacos.

November 2024

It's cozy season, which in D.C.'s food world means home-cooked Korean food, a cozy cocktail bar, and plenty of rotisserie chicken to go around.

Press Club (Dupont)

D.C.’s newest cocktail bar will have a menu styled like a vinyl record and a real record collection including everything from ’70s disco to ’90s rap. Also, over half their drinks come with a snack on the side.

SHIA (Union Market)

This Korean tasting menu restaurant is the newest creation by celebrity chef Edward Lee. The restaurant emphasizes sustainability and local ingredients and has an ever-changing menu.

Cordelia Fishbar (Union Market)

The seafood-centric menu at this new spot focuses on cooking with charcoal and pulls from cooking transitions from Spain, Asia, and the Americas. Don’t miss the crudo and the oysters. Opening Nov. 11.

Rosedale (Cleveland Park)

This new American farm-to-table restaurant offers a seasonal menu with daily specials from the kitchen’s rotisserie. Mains include classics like 45-day-aged rib steak, artisanal pizza, and butternut ravioli with toasted seeds. The restaurant will serve dinner and Sunday brunch.

October 2024

This month D.C. gets a a fancy cafe on the National Mall and a new KBBQ joint!

Kayu (H Street Corridor)

Chef Paolo Dungca of H Street's popular Filipino cafe Hiraya just opened a new restaurant upstairs called Kayu. The menu is Filipino but also embraces global elements with dishes like dry-aged beef tartare and roasted mushroom dumplings. There are multi-course tasting menu options and a four-course pre-fixe dinner menu.

Bar Americano (National Mall)

From the Sonny's Pizza team, Bar Americano is a natural wine bar, café, and pizza joint placed right on the National Mall. They have made-to-order breakfast sandwiches, homemade pastries, and coffee, along with pizza in the afternoons. Perfect for picnicking and taking in the view. Open Fridays - Sundays from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Chadol (Edgewood)

This upscale Korean BBQ spot is opening a new location in Bryant Street market, and if it’s anything like their original in Rockville, it won’t disappoint.

September 2024

D.C.'s newest restaurants are dialing up the cozy factor. Trinidadian stews, Tonkotsu ramen, and smokey escargot are landing in the District this month just in time for the fall weather.

La’ Shukran (Union Market)

Chef Michael Rafidi, the mastermind behind Yellow and Albi, just opened this new Middle Eastern bistro and bar with French vibes. The menu is updated daily with lots of mezze alongside dishes like lamb tartare and smokey escargot. Reservations are hard to snag; get them when they’re released every Monday at 10:00 A.M.

JINYA Ramen Bar (Union Market)

A new JINYA is opening on Oct. 11 in the Union Market neighborhood, with their slow-simmered Tonkotsu broth and craft cocktails. The first 100 guests in line by 11 a.m. opening day will receive a free bowl of ramen.

Dog Daze Social Club (Logan Circle)

This new dog-centric restaurant and garden will serve coffee and breakfast in the morning and Chicago-style pizza in the evenings. Diners can hang out with their pups in the garden or grab it at the to-go window. Dog Daze has already soft opened with the grand opening coming later this month.

Rosedale (Van Ness)

The latest restaurant from Ashok Bajaj (of Rasika and Sababa) is a new American concept with a seasonal menu along with daily specials from the kitchen’s rotisserie. Opening mid-October.

Dōgon (Southwest DC)

Chef Kwame Onwuachi’s new Afro-Caribbean restaurant inside the Salamander DC hotel draws on D.C.’s history. This results in dishes like “Ben’s Bowl” created with Ben’s Chilli Bowl, or doro wat-inspired chicken and rice.

Trini Vybez (Columbia Heights)

This restaurant got its start as a food truck with some of the best Trinidadian street food in town. Now, it’s getting a brick-and-mortar and will serve up classic rotis, doubles, and stewed meats. The project also includes Soca Cafe and Wine Bar downstairs. Opened Oct. 1.

August 2024

D.C.’s Middle Eastern food moment continues this month, but we’re also getting an exciting new neighborhood cocktail bar and the city's first kombucha taproom.

Yalla (U Street)

Opening this Friday, Yalla is the latest addition to D.C.’s Middle Eastern obsession. Dishes like feta-mozzarella zaatar sticks and beef kibbeh are served on a moody rooftop. It will also have a music program with late-night DJs and dancing.

​​Providencia (H Street)

At the top of my “to try” list is this small Asian-Latin neighborhood cocktail bar from the hands behind Maketto. It sits in an alleyway off H Street and serves innovative cocktails alongside crab-stuffed sandwiches, eel salad, and rotating flavor tamales.

Brindle Boxer Kombucha (Downtown)

This tiny local kombucha company has been brewing for years but finally opened its first taproom at The Square. Stop by for glasses and growlers filled with flavors of fizzy tea like ginger, blue elderflower, and caffeine-free mango.

Wagamama (Clarendon)

This long-awaited London-born Asian noodle chain finally opened in Clarendon last month with its classic dishes like “bang bang” cauliflower, ginger chicken udon, and spicy pork Szechuan ramen.

Lazizi Halal (H Street)

From the owners of Sakina’s Kabab and Gyro comes this halal joint with gyro, biryani, mandi, and chaat, all in the former Bar Elena space.

Chicatana 2.0 (Petworth)

Not new, but improved. This Mexican street food spot moved to a larger location down the block and expanded its menu to be more seafood-heavy. The owners are opening a new Mexican tapas bar called La Plaza in the old space later this fall.

July 2024

There are no brat(wurst)s in sight this brat-girl summer in D.C. Instead, we're getting lots of top-notch tacos and burritos, along with the return of Dupont standby Duke's Grocery.

River Club (Georgetown):

This Mediterranean spot comes from the same owners as Residents Cafe and Bar and has an equally chic aesthetic. Lebanese, Spanish, and Italian flavors come out in dishes like papas bravas and pasta limon, but my favorite thing was the lamb belly skewers with pistachio-coconut dukkah.

Apapacho Taqueria (Union Market):

The same but different, this taco spot just opened in the old Las Gemelas space in La Cosecha, with a slightly more expansive menu and, more importantly, breakfast tacos.

San Pancho (Takoma Park):

Lines have been out the door for this mission-style burrito shop where the flour tortillas are imported from Mexico and the fillings are homemade. The burritos were a little on the small side for us considering they go for about $15, but the flavors are unbeatable.

Duke’s Grocery (Dupont):

This East London-styled pub is finally coming back to Dupont after being closed for over a year for construction. They are bringing back all the crowd favorites along with a long-awaited fryer, which means you can finally order those fish and chips.

June 2024

What’s new and good to eat in town this summer? D.C. is continuing its Mediterranean food frenzy and love of natural wines. Also, expect a few new concepts from beloved restaurant owners!

Láylí Mediterranean (Clarendon):

This Lebanese-inspired eatery is the latest addition to a Mediterranean food resurgence in the DMV. The menu is mostly shareable mezze, as well as larger items like beef tenderloin shawarma and hummus with duck confit. But don’t miss the pistachio espresso martinis or pesto sours!

Baan Mae (Shaw):

The family behind Thip Khao just opened this new Southeast Asian spot with dishes like crab curry with lychee, banana jicama blossom salad, and black sesame coconut rice. It is one of several new spots the family has opened including Padaek in Arlington.

Sixty Vines (Foggy Bottom):

This Texas-based wine bar and restaurant opened its first D.C. location on June 11. It has over 60 wines on tap, a full American-fare menu, and a greenhouse. But more importantly, they have a happy hour with $8 espresso martinis and frozé drinks.

Ama (Navy Yard):

This new Italian eatery opened on June 4. It transforms from a café and focacceria by day to an aperitivo bar and restaurant by night. Think carpaccio, foraged greens ravioli, and braised rabbit stew.

Catboat Pizza Bar (Alexandria):

The owners of Sonny’s Pizza and No Kisses bar in Park View opened this grandma-style pan pizza joint and wine bar on June 7. Right now the seating is only outdoors and hours are limited. However, it will be expanding later this summer.

May 2024

Some GOOD stuff has been popping up in the DMV in May, from Southeast Asian ice cream to upscale Sichuan tapas.

Malai (Logan Circle):

This new Southeast Asian inspired ice cream shop opened on T Street NW last weekend with lines down the block. I tried every flavor (yes, really) and I highly recommend the rose with cinnamon roasted almonds, pistachio soft serve, and the cherry black cardamom, which was formulated specifically for D.C.

NiHao by Peter Chang (Crystal City):

Peter Chang’s latest concept is inspired by Spanish tapas but stays true to the Sichuan flavors he’s known for. The menu is expansive but some of my favorites were the mala pork ribs, glutinous rice lotus leaves, and stone pot tofu fish.

Billiards Room (Adams Morgan):

This new neighborhood hangout opened in early May underneath Death Punch Bar in the old Shabu Plus space. The three pool tables are free to play as long as you're drinking/eating.

DoorDash x Code Red (Adams Morgan):

DoorDash is debuting a two-night “speakeasy” at Code Red where Dashpass subscribers can enter through a dummy refrigerator door and get a cocktail on the delivery platform’s tab. Sigh, capitalism strikes again.

Good Company Doughnuts (Waterfront):

This all-day cafe specializes in hand-cut doughnuts, coffee, and breakfast goodies. This is their third location and fist in D.C. proper. Mango margarita and lemon pucker donuts? Yes please. They also have lots of vegan options.

Tamashaa (Columbia Heights):

Branding itself as a “modern Indian gastro bar,” this new Indian hotspot opened on May 15 by a former Taj Mahal Hotel chef. Start with the multigrain sev puri and move on to the soft shell crab surrounded in coconut curry. Yum!

April 2024

Some fancy restaurants landed in the District this month, from 12-course omakase to a bougie brasserie, but they’re not the only newcomers to town.

La Grande Boucherie (Downtown):

This New York based brasserie opened a D.C. location last week. It’s a block from the White House in the old Federal-American National Bank Building that’s sat vacant for decades. Highlights include the steak frites and filet de boeuf.

Mecha Noodle Bar (Union Market):

Self-described as “Asian soul food,” this new spot is coming to Union Market and will be serving all the pho, ramen, and baozi you can eat.

Sushi By Bou (L’Enfant Plaza):

This new omakase restaurant perched atop the citizenM hotel opens tomorrow with disco balls and neon furniture. They offer a 12 course option for $60 or 17 courses for $100.

Childhood Café (U Street Corridor):

This sweet coffee shop was just opened in the former Three Fifty Café space by Wizards player Kyle Kuzma. They have specialty latte flavors like strawberry pop tart, blueberry muffin and pistachio. I grabbed a lavender matcha and loved every second of it.

Kinfolk Southern Kitchen (The Wharf):

An Americana restaurant serving Southern home-cooked comfort foods from shrimp and grits to Halal barbecue. Don’t miss the 100-year-old Tandoori Chicken family recipe.

Beresovsky’s Deli (Navy Yard)

This deli opened up across from Nats Park on April 1 with massive meaty sammies between grilled challah or marbled rye. It will also serve matzo ball soup, potato latkes and perogies with homemade applesauce, and toasted bagels. Yum.

Namak (Adam’s Morgan)

This Mediterranean restaurant just opened in the former Mintwood Place space. Chef Tolgahan of Zaytinya is bringing lesser-known Persian and Turkish specialties along with classic mezze like borani laboo, a beetroot, yogurt and feta dip, and walnut labneh.

Zooz (The Wharf)

Another nightlife option just landed at The Wharf. This upscale cocktail bar by the owners of Urban Roast brings the feel of Dubai to D.C. with nightly live DJs, free snacks, and elaborate bottle service.

New Nats Park Concessions (Navy Yard)

The Nats Park food scene has been completely revamped, with tons of new concessions. Some standouts include Los Cinco Tacos, Eli’s Crepes, and Ssongs Korean Hot Dogs. The stadium also now sells beer from 12 different local breweries.

Bar Japonais (14th Street)

From the people behind Bar Chinois in Penn Quarter, Bar Japonais is opening later this month with Japanese fusion dishes and a swanky late-night vibe.

March 2024

This month is all about welcoming perfectly executed staples to D.C.’s restaurant scene. The perfect smash burger, fresh neighborhood italian food, and juicy fried chicken, coming up.

Cucina Morini (Capitol Hill)

Matt Adler from Caruso’s Grocery is teaming up with the Osteria Morini team to open this casual Sicilian restaurant with $7 martinis, handmade pastas, and mortadella meatballs.

UPSIDE On Moore (Rosslyn)

The DMV’s newest food hall UPSIDE on Moore has nine local food vendors – including two original concepts – tons of seating, an outdoor patio, and great wifi. Our favorite dish we tried was the pulehu chicken from Kam and 46.

Bar Del Monte (Mt. Pleasant)

The owners of 2 Amys just opened a neighborhood Italian joint with a focus on small plates and notably, no tipping. The menu will emphasize seasonal veggies along with low-key meats like anchovies and little sausages. So, basically my ideal restaurant.

Palette 22 (Union Market)

This global fusion restaurant is working with over 30 local artists to create a gallery-like atmosphere where diners can view and purchase artwork. Shareable dishes include shiso-wrapped chicken, Turkish flatbreads, and seasonal sangria.

Joia Burger (Mt. Pleasant)

The chef behind Purple Patch, Patrice Cleary, opened this burger joint just up the street last week. The menu is limited to wagyu burgers, fries, and ube ice cream, and quite frankly that’s all we need.

Reverie (Georgetown)

After going dark almost a year ago due to fire damage, Georgetown’s beloved tasting room from Chef Johnny Spero has risen from the ashes. The completely renovated restaurant is opening March 26 with a new 12-to-16-course tasting menu with Nordic, Japanese, and Maryland influences.

Little Chicken (The Wharf)

I stumbled upon this while looking for a “cheap” eat at The Wharf and it’s quickly become one of my favorite fried chicken spots in D.C. Juicy chicken sandwiches hand-breaded to order, wings, and battered curly fries. Don’t skip the double-layered soft serve.

February 2024

Pascual (Capitol Hill):

The hotly-anticipated contemporary Mexican restaurant Pascual landed in Capitol Hill last week. Chefs Matt Conroy and Isabel Coss – also behind Georgetown’s Lutèce – are cooking up a hearth-centric, Mexico City-inspired menu.

Whitlow’s Party Boat (Potomac):

If you ever thought D.C.’s stand-by tavern Whitlows was just a little too dry, this is for you. Their new 40-seat floating bar will take you up and down the Potomac.

Dabney Cellar (Blagden Alley):

The Dabney’s basement bar has reopened after a long hiatus, and it looks almost identical. Besides cocktails, it also serves up simple dishes like oysters, cheeses, and country hams. It’s only open on Sundays and Mondays for now.

Pastis (Union Market):

This French Bistro set in a refurbished warehouse is Stephen Starr’s newest project. (He calls it Le Diplomate’s “grittier brother.”) Expect crispy veal and potatoes, wiener schnitzel, duck confit, and French onion soup.

Tipsy Scoop (Chinatown):

This boozy ice cream shop is opening up in Chinatown on March 2. They even have a Cherry Blossom Old Fashioned ice cream made especially for the occasion.

Jessie Taylor Seafood (The Wharf):

More than two years after Captain White’s shut down, fried and broiled seafood has returned to the Municipal Fish Market. Jessie’s opened earlier this month, dishing out fried fish, crab cakes, and boiled crabs.