Did you know that Washington, DC, is a hub for vibrant Latin cuisine? This city is home to an incredible array of Latin American and Hispanic eateries. Whether you’re craving tacos, ceviche, or other traditional dishes, DC has something delicious to offer.
The Latino community is thriving in Washington, DC, making it no surprise that the culinary scene is bursting with flavor. From Mexican to Peruvian delights, there are plenty of opportunities to savor authentic dishes prepared with passion and creativity.
Oyamel
Step into Oyamel, where every meal feels like a Mexican fiesta. This restaurant in Penn Quarter is decked out in vibrant colors and traditional decorations that capture the essence of Mexico.
Under the guidance of Spanish celebrity chef José Andrés, Oyamel offers a tapas-style menu that’s perfect for sharing. Try the creamy masa-battered fish tacos or dare to taste the tacos chapulines with crunchy sautéed grasshoppers.
The menu at Oyamel is a testament to tradition, with dishes like quesadilla huitlacoche and handmade tortillas that showcase the dedication of its chefs. Don’t miss the guacamole, expertly prepared at a dedicated station.
Seven Reasons
At Seven Reasons, you’ll find an atmospheric Latin setting inspired by the landscapes of Venezuela. Chef Enrique Limardo brings his native flavors to life with creative dishes that delight the senses.
Try the red snapper ceviche, a tart and refreshing classic with a twist. Or indulge in the crispy pork belly wrapped in plantain and coated with flavorful sauces.
Dining at Seven Reasons is like embarking on a culinary journey, with dishes that surprise at every turn. Whether it’s the grilled duck or the rich, satisfying flavors of the Amazon rainforest, you’re in for a treat.
dLeña
dLeña draws you in with its smoky, wood-fired dishes that pay homage to Mexican cooking traditions. The centerpiece is a hearth, where flavors come alive.
Chef Richard Sandoval blends old-world traditions with modern techniques. His dishes, from mezcal-flambéed steak to grilled prawns, are a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Finish your meal with empanadas filled with tender Wagyu beef or indulge in a sweet Argentine milhojas with layers of indulgent flavor.
El Secreto de Rosita
El Secreto de Rosita is more than a restaurant; it feels like a cozy home filled with warmth and heart. Owner Mauricio Fraga-Rosenfeld brings the essence of his Ecuadorian upbringing to every corner.
Chef Cristian Granada’s modern take on Peruvian cuisine offers rich flavors and comforting dishes. Try the ají de gallina or the seafood-rich arroz con mariscos.
Ceviche lovers will enjoy creating their own combinations, adding personal twists to traditional recipes.
Causa/Amazonia
Causa is a culinary love letter to Peru, crafted by Chef Carlos Delgado. Here, every dish is a work of art, combining Japanese and Peruvian flavors into a sensory delight.
Dive into the tasting menu featuring an array of seafood like octopus and eel, each dish meticulously presented to please the eye and palate.
Upstairs, Amazonia offers a casual rooftop bar with small plates and a fine selection of piscos. Chef Delgado brings the essence of the Peruvian rainforest to Washington, DC.
Washington, DC, is a treasure trove of Latin-American cuisine just waiting to be explored. From cozy home-style settings to vibrant fiestas, the flavors are diverse and rich.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these restaurants offer a taste of the vibrant Latino culture that thrives in the nation’s capital. Savor every bite and enjoy the journey.
