Good food and drinks; and if you want to be treated like you're at one of those satire restaurants where you pay them to demean/insult you, then dLeña is the place for you. My fiancé and I have been to dLeña previously, more specifically to their Roja Lounge for drinks and small plates. The drinks were so good that even our friends who were from out of town insisted we go again when they were back in town. I don't remember anything standout about the service, good or bad. When we saw that they were doing a New Year's Eve dinner with live music at their Roja Lounge, we were very excited to go with some friends. I booked the reservation, but noticed there was no ability to book the Lounge so I gave them a call to enquire about their NYE event and how seating downstairs would work. I was told that the setup would be as normal downstairs and there would be no reservations, walk-in only. I pushed a little bit on seating and the host insisted that it would be first come, first serve. I thought that was a bit odd on a night as busy as NYE, but didn't think much of it past that. On NYE we arrived a few minutes early for our reservation and our table wasn't ready, we were told we could go grab a drink at the bar upstairs or go down to their Roja Lounge. We opted for the lounge to give our friends an idea where we'd be spending the rest of the night after dinner (the ambiance is amazing downstairs). We come downstairs to find every table/lounge area has a RESERVED placard on it. At this point, I was very confused as the person I talked to on the phone insisted that they would not be doing reservations in the lounge, so when we went upstairs, I enquired with the host. She explained that the tables are only for members of their 'Tequila Locker Program', I asked why that wasn't explained to me on the phone when I enquired and eventually was told, "well you don't understand these people spend 2k every 6 months." As others have mentioned in their reviews, it seems to be a common occurrence at dLeña that insinuate that you don't belong or can't afford certain things (for context we spent over a grand on food and drinks that night (dinner was pre-paid) so that really rubbed salt into the wound). After dinner we went downstairs to the bathroom and there were still quite a few tables with reserved on them that clearly weren't occupied, this was around 11pm. While I went to the bathroom my fiancé enquired with the staff downstairs about what they would do with those tables if no one showed - they said the weren't sure. In the meantime, our friends had gone upstairs and found 2 seats at the bar, we were very excited that we finally found some seats to enjoy the rest of our night at! My girlfriend and I went to order drinks and were immediately told that she could only serve people who were sitting. At this point we were done with the constant inconveniences of this restaurant and asked for a manager. We explained the series of events to the manager and were met with again with a demeaning tone about how there are some very important people here tonight and constant name dropping of who those people were (director at IBM/Director of DC Parks & Rec), as if that had anything to do with the situation. Last time I checked, my money spends the same as the Director of DC Parks & Rec. After going back and forth, the manager went downstairs and came back up to tell us he may have something downstairs for us. We followed him downstairs to find the "space" he had for us was just that, a space in the corner of the bar with no seating. He said a table may free up and they we'll need to grab it as soon as staff took the reserved sign off. We decided at this point it was just time to leave, as we would have been in competition with the numerous other parties who also wanted somewhere to sit for the night. Again, if they had just explained that the tables would be completely booked, I would have either made plans. As you can imagine, it is impossible to get into anywhere in DC the night of NYE without a reservation. We noticed the table behind us seemed to also have the impression that they would be able to sit downstairs (or at least the potential to) and were scrambling to try and find a place to continue their night elsewhere. We also overheard multiple other parties complaining about how this was just a cash grab. While I know this review most likely won't change anything, I do hope that the team takes some time to consider the experience they are providing to their patrons. I understand that NYE is an extremely challenging day in the service industry, but whoever oversees booking decisions is making everything 10x more difficult for their staff and patrons. After reading some of the other reviews where people have had similar experiences, we will not be taking this as a one off because of NYE and won't be returning. read more

I recently stumbled upon a hidden gem in DC for cocktails and bites that has quickly become my go-to spot for a relaxed atmosphere and unforgettable experiences. dLena and its Roja Mezcal Lounge have left me nothing but impressed and eager to return. Upon entering the restaurant, I was immediately captivated by its unique setup. With two separate bars and one kitchen, dLena offers a distinctive dining experience. The main floor boasts a beautiful large bar with great views of the outside, but it was the Roja Mezcal Lounge that truly stole the show. Tucked away, this hidden gem exudes a perfect chill vibe and offers a great ambience for unwinding. My friends and I wasted no time in immersing ourselves in the fantastic offerings at dLena. We started with shots of Casamigo's, priced at $25.00, which set the tone for the evening. The culinary delights on the menu were irresistible, and we indulged in a variety of small sharing plates, including the mouthwatering Empanadas and flavorful Mushroom and Shrimp Tacos. Personally, I fell in love with the Empanadas filled with yellow sweet corn, priced at $15.00. Each bite was a burst of delightful flavors. To complement our culinary journey, I opted for glasses of Hacienda Araucano Pinot Noir, priced at $11.00. The smooth and elegant notes of the wine perfectly connected with the bites, elevating the overall experience. What truly sets dLena apart is its dedication to providing not just great food and drinks but also an exceptional atmosphere. Live jazz performances from Wednesday to Sunday add a touch of sophistication and create an ambiance that is both vibrant and soothing. During my visit, l had the pleasure of discovering some fascinating facts about the Roja Mezcal Lounge. They boast an impressive collection of over 100+ Tequilas and Mezcals, inviting guests to explore a wide range of flavors and profiles. For those seeking a truly personalized experience, they offer the option to have your own private Tequila Locker, complete with Tequila and a 24-hour concierge service. Additionally, the owners' commitment to quality shines through as they personally fly to Mexico to handpick private barrels of Tequila, ensuring an unparalleled selection. I must give a special shoutout to Nanci Hernandez, the talented mixologist behind the bar. Her craft and creativity were evident in every sip. I had the pleasure of trying her Hibiscus rosé margaritas with strawberry air, and they were nothing short of delicious. The attention to detail and the perfect balance of flavors made it a true standout. In conclusion, dLena and its Roja Mezcal Lounge have undoubtedly won me over with their combination of exceptional drinks, delectable bites, and a captivating atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind after a long day or a venue to indulge in culinary delights while enjoying live jazz, dLena is the perfect choice. Cheers to a memorable experience at dLena ROJA! read more

A Culinary Fiesta at dLeña - Worth Every Bite and Sip We indulged in the famed bottomless brunch at dLeña, and it was nothing short of spectacular. Starting with the Maryland crab guacamole, this dish was a revelation--bold yet elegant flavors that danced on our taste buds. It's a must-order! The salmon entrée was another triumph (as pictured). Perfectly seared and layered with vibrant textures and flavors, it showcased the chef's finesse and creativity. Then came dessert, and what a grand finale it was! The seasonal fruit cocktail was pure artistry. A medley of berries bathed in a light, citrusy orange juice (or perhaps a subtle hint of another infusion?), sweetened with just the right touch of agave honey. The true star, however, was the fruit espuma--an ethereal, velvety foam that was a revelation in texture. Its perfectly balanced acidity and gentle sweetness made every spoonful a delight without overwhelming the palate. Dessert alone was enough to make us linger a little longer at the table. The service was impeccable--attentive without being overbearing and prompt enough to ensure our glasses of mimosa never ran dry. Speaking of which, the mimosa selection kept our spirits high (and bubbly) throughout the meal. It's the perfect way to make a weekend feel special. Despite being nearly at full capacity, the ambiance was warm and inviting. Plenty of seating, thoughtfully arranged to maintain both comfort and intimacy. It's a great spot for both casual catch-ups and special celebrations. Make sure to book a reservation at least two weeks in advance--this place is a hot ticket! Lastly, parking was a breeze, with ample metered spots available nearby--always a plus in this part of town. dLeña truly delivered a brunch experience that was indulgent, flavorful, and flawlessly executed. We left happily full, already plotting our return. A word to the wise: pace yourself on the bottomless drinks. It's a marathon, not a sprint! read more

I've visited this restaurant multiple times, each with its own experience. On my first visit, we sat upstairs in the main dining area. The ambiance was intimate and inviting, with soft lighting that created a cozy atmosphere ideal for a nice dinner. On another visit, we didn't have reservations and were seated downstairs. The downstairs space had a completely different vibe--much more relaxed and open, but the seating layout felt a bit awkward, especially when trying to enjoy a larger meal. Would be perfect for drinks, music, and smaller snacks. The way some of the tables and seats were positioned together or at odd angles made it a little less comfortable for a full on dining experience. However, the live music downstairs added a vibrant energy and transformed the experience into something more lively and fun, making it enjoyable on its own. As for the food, it did not let me down. We opted for a variety of dishes to share with the table, which allowed us to sample a wide range of flavors. However, the only downfall during my first visit was that the pacing of the courses was off, which was disappointing. They served the protein by itself first, and the vegetables arrived much later, which meant we couldn't enjoy them together. The vegetables felt like an afterthought and weren't as satisfying on their own. That said, the oysters were incredible--some of the best I've ever had. They were full of flavor, perfectly prepared, and a real standout of the meal. I also visited once for lunch and unfortunately, I wouldn't return for that. The lunch menu was much more limited, and most of the restaurant's best dishes were only available during dinner. Unlike other places that offer flexibility, they didn't allow us to order from the dinner menu during lunch hours, which was a bit of a letdown. If you go, I highly recommend sticking to dinner, as the evening menu and experience are far superior to what they offer during lunch. read more

I came to dLeña for brunch with friends on a Saturday, and overall, it was a decent experience but not one I'd necessarily go out of my way to repeat. We went around 11:30, so it started off pretty quiet, but as brunch picked up, it definitely got louder. The ambiance is nice though, very laid-back, chill, and a great vibe for a group brunch or celebration. We did the bottomless brunch, and one thing I really appreciated is that the bottomless food and drinks are priced separately. Not everyone in our group wanted drinks, so it was nice that we were only charged for the people who actually ordered them. The only downside is that mocktails aren't included. The food is served as small plates brought out progressively, but I do wish this had been explained better upfront. It was presented as if they would just bring items out, but it wasn't clearly communicated that we could also order anything we wanted from the menu. That made the experience feel a bit confusing. The meal started off strong. The salad was fresh, and there was a fruit/yogurt dish with agave that was honestly one of the best things we had. From there, it became hit or miss. The ceviche and chips were good, the fish tacos were solid, and I appreciated that they had some vegetarian options (though somewhat limited). The waffle and churro were highlights, but the potato hash fell flat. As the meal went on, service slowed down quite a bit. We were waiting a while for certain items (like the corn), and it felt like things just started to lag toward the end. Service overall followed a similar pattern. Strong at the beginning, but less attentive as it got busier. Overall, I'd rate it around a 7 out of 10. It's a fun spot for the experience and group setting, but the lack of clarity and inconsistency in pacing took away from it. I might consider trying it for dinner since I've heard good things, but for brunch, it's not a place I'd go out of my way to revisit. read more

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Delena Restaurant in Washington, D.C., and I must say it's one of the best dining experiences I've had in a long time. From the moment I walked in, I was immediately struck by the inviting decor and atmosphere. It set the perfect tone for what would turn out to be an exceptional evening. The staff was not only friendly but also incredibly attentive, making me feel truly valued throughout my visit. For my meal, I decided to go all-in and ordered the tomahawk steak with chimichurri sauce, along with a side of empanadas. The steak was an absolute delight - tender, cooked to perfection, and seasoned just right. However, the chimichurri sauce stole the show, adding a burst of flavor that was like the star on top of a Christmas tree. To complement my meal, I ordered a smoked old fashioned, which had a delightful smoky taste that paired wonderfully with my food. The empanadas were a work of art, beautifully made and packed with flavor. Each bite was a delight, and it was clear that attention to detail was a priority in the kitchen. Our server was not only efficient but also personable, engaging us in friendly banter and making us feel like more than just customers. The manager also took the time to come over and chat with us, which added a personal touch to the dining experience that I truly appreciated. In summary, Delena Restaurant exceeded my expectations in every way. The combination of outstanding food, inviting atmosphere, and genuinely friendly staff made for an unforgettable evening. I'm already looking forward to my next visit, and I can't recommend this place enough. If you're in D.C., Delena Restaurant is a must-visit for an exceptional dining experience. Regenerate read more

I recently ventured into the downstairs bar of Dleña, eager to enjoy some good music and unwind after a long day. However, my experience at this crowded place was far from enjoyable due to the the lack of seating. Finding a spot to even stand (forget sitting) was a challenge in itself, as the seating seemed to me as if it was reserved for more special guests. Also, the atmosphere was overshadowed by the unapproachable staff. The staff appeared uninterested in providing assistance. It felt like they were going through the motions without any genuine interest. Requests for assistance were met with cold responses, and it seemed like they were doing us a favor rather than providing a service. I assume that if you don't have one of their special lockers to store tequilla in then you are going to have to stand or leave. It was disheartening to see the staff prioritize certain customers over others, creating an unwelcoming and exclusive vibe. The lack of attentiveness from the staff made it challenging to fully enjoy the music or the company of friends. The overall atmosphere in the downstairs bar was not conducive to relaxation or enjoyment, which was a significant letdown. While the music was good and performed by a live band, it was difficult to fully appreciate it in such an unwelcoming environment. The lack of friendly interactions and the noisy ambiance significantly detracted from the overall experience. In conclusion, my experience downstairs was far from pleasant. read more

My recent dining experience at DLeña was an absolute culinary journey! Nestled in the heart of [Location], DLeña offers a dining experience that seamlessly blends innovation with tradition. DLeña's menu is a testament to culinary excellence, featuring a tantalizing array of Latin-inspired dishes that celebrate the vibrant flavors and rich heritage of the region. From the smoky aromas of the wood-fired grill to the bold spices and fresh ingredients, each dish is a masterpiece crafted with precision and passion. What truly sets DLeña apart is its commitment to authenticity and creativity. The chefs' innovative approach to traditional Latin cuisine results in dishes that are both familiar and delightfully unexpected. The ambiance at DLeña is equally captivating, with its sleek and modern design that exudes warmth and sophistication. Whether you're enjoying a romantic dinner for two or gathering with friends and family, DLeña provides the perfect backdrop for any occasion. During my visit, the staff's impeccable service and attention to detail further enhanced the dining experience, making me feel welcomed and valued from start to finish. For anyone seeking a culinary adventure that ignites the senses and transports the palate, DLeña is an absolute must-visit. I cannot recommend this restaurant highly enough and eagerly anticipate my next opportunity to savor its exquisite offerings. read more

I would like to first start by saying I never review restaurants but my experience last night made me make an exception. My wife and I ate at Dleña and had a wonderful experience. It was our anniversary and we wanted to make a night of it so we went downstairs to the speakeasy bar for a night cap. They had live music which was great and had a really cool atmosphere. But it wasn't the food or drinks (which were great) that made me write this, but the service. I have lived in DC for many years but last night was the best service We have experienced since coming to this city. Our server Nancy was incredible and had such knowledge. We first were standing because it was first come first serve and when we told her we were celebrating our anniversary she immediately found us a table . When we asked her what she liked on the menu she said it didn't matter because it wasn't about her, it was about what we like and what kind of experience we wanted to have. She had us trying mezcal (which neither my wife nor I had ever had) and then gave us old fashions with tequila and mezcal! If that wasn't enough, she even brought us a dessert that had "Happy Anniversary" written on it. We both were confused because we didn't request it but she said she had remembered and wanted to help us celebrate. An all-star server that makes us want to come back! read more

I decided to spend New Year's Eve at Dleña in NW DC based on a recommendation from the Washington Post, but my experience left much to be desired. Upon entering, I was told by a staff member that I could sit anywhere in the lounge without "reserved" signs. However, every table in the lounge had reserved signs, creating confusion from the start. After finally finding a seat at the bar, the bartender, with noticeably unpleasant breath, informed me that the seat was also "reserved." This contradicted the earlier information I received about seating options upon entering. Despite these initial setbacks, I found two available seats at the bar for myself and my cousin. To our dismay, after being told to wait "one" minute to order, the bartender never took our order. Later, I observed the same bartender speaking with a manager, who then stated that one of our seats was reserved. This was the second time we were informed of reserved seating after being seated without any initial indications. Feeling unwelcome and frustrated by the inconsistency, my cousin and I decided to leave and settled at a different bar to welcome in 2024 more tastefully. Overall, the miscommunication regarding seating and the lack of service left a negative impression on what was supposed to be a celebratory evening. read more

I was genuinely surprised by my most recent experience, as I've visited several times before and have always had pleasant service. Unfortunately, that was not the case this time. Upon arrival, our waiter approached us and asked what we would like to order. We inquired about the bottomless brunch option, and he informed us that it was no longer available after 1 PM, which seemed unusual given that it was still 1.5hrs prior to closing. However, this was not the main issue and we were totally fine with ordering something else if we had access to the full menu. Before we had the opportunity to ask any follow-up questions or explore what other menu options there were, our waiter walked away promptly after stating bottomless brunch was not a option. We waited approximately 20-25 minutes for him to return, but he never did. Ultimately, we decided to leave and dine elsewhere due to the lack of service. This was a very disappointing experience in terms of customer service. Fortunately, we were able to find a great alternative nearby and still enjoy our lunch. However, if this level of service is indicative of what to expect moving forward, I would hesitate to return. read more

I had been eagerly anticipating a visit to dLeña, drawn in by its rustic and romantic ambiance. However, I must admit, the experience left me somewhat disappointed. The wagyu empanadas, a dish I was particularly excited about, turned out to be predominantly filled with cheese, lacking the rich, meaty flavor I was hoping for. Similarly, the wagyu fajitas, which I expected to be a highlight, were surprisingly lacking in flavor. The bell peppers were overly salted, the wagyu itself was bland, and the accompanying items did little to elevate the dish. On a positive note, the oysters were good, but the bacon jam that accompanied them was overpowering, detracting from the delicate taste of the oysters. Another aspect that detracted from the experience was having three different people check in with us while we were eating. This made the restaurant feel less relaxing and became a bit of an annoyance. Given the price point, I had expected a more memorable and flavorful experience. I had been looking forward to trying this restaurant for some time, but I'm not sure I would return. In comparison, I find myself preferring the flavors at Guapos. read more

We recently dined at this restaurant, and overall, it was a fantastic experience. Great ambience, dimmed lights, comfortable and cozy place. The flavors and quality of the food were exceptional, and we thoroughly enjoyed our meal. The short rib tacos were a highlight, cooked perfectly. The Guacamole was fresh and flavorful, adding a delightful touch to our dining experience. Only downside was the long waiting time. It was a bit frustrating to wait for our food, especially since we were quite hungry. However, once food arrived it was definitely worth the wait. The staff appeared a bit distracted during our visit, but they were friendly and accommodating nonetheless. It would have been even better if they were a a little more attentive to the customers needs. While the taste and quality of the dishes were excellent, portion sizes left a bit to be desired, especially considering the price. Although food was delicious, a slightly larger portion would have made the experience even more satisfying. Despite these minor issues, I highly recommend this restaurant for it's mouthwatering Mexican cuisine. read more

Really beautifully decorated restaurant that is pretty unassuming from outside. At night, it's really dark inside though and the candles don't provide much light. We came to celebrate our anniversary. Our server was so nice and funny. He was really helpful in telling us which dishes were good and which weren't. He definitely made us have an enjoyable time. Their initial "shot" of non-alcoholic mezcal was delicious. Their lemonade is also really good. We tried the guacamole (delicious), wagyu fajita (cooked perfectly and absolutely melt in the mouth--they forgot to bring us our tortillas and we didn't realize this until we saw it on the menu during dessert), short rib tacos (meh, the short rib was really dry), and the broccolini (a bit over charred and too oily). For dessert, we initially tried the chocolate fondant but it was not good at all. It should be liquid in the center but it was like a cooked sponge-y bread with not much sweetness. Our server comped us a new dessert--the crepe cake. This one was slightly better but overall just average. Their desserts are not worth it, in my opinion. read more

This is the second time I'm visiting dLeña and I loved today's experience just as much as my first visit. Photos don't do justice as this place is so beautiful! The ambiance is elegant, classy, and warm. The seating at the bar is very comfortable. Excellent service by bartenders who are polite, efficient, and professional. Of course, the food here is phenomenal! My favorites from today were Wagyu Beef Tiradito, Pork Belly, and Ceviche Amarillo. I'm not a fan of steak in general, but their 30 Day Dry Aged Boneless Ribeye puts top-tier steakhouses in the DMV area to shame. Their tacos (Short Rib, Atún, and Camaróne) are perfection. Overall, there is no restaurant that can compete with dLeña currently in DC - a class act all around. If you are looking for a romantic date spot, bring your beau here! If your friends are visiting from out of town to experience DC, bring them here! No matter who you bring as your company, it will be a lovely evening filled with fabulous drinks, great food, vibrant live music, and muchas risas! read more

I had the pleasure of dining at dLeña for dinner the other night and I must say, it was an experience unlike any other. The atmosphere was very inviting and the staff was welcoming and friendly. The food was absolutely delicious, with a mix of flavors that you would rarely find at a Mexican restaurant. The portions were generous and the prices were pricey but very reasonable. We started with the Tuna Tartare Guacamole - the guac was fresh, creamy, and flavorful. The chips were crispy and perfectly salted. For the main course, I had the Short Rib al Carbon; it was cooked to perfection and melted in my mouth. The unique combination of flavors and spices was something that I had never tasted before. The accompanying sides were also delicious, particularly the roasted veggies, which were light and fresh. Overall, my experience at dLeña was one of the best I have ever had. I highly recommend this restaurant for anyone looking for an amazing Mexican cuisine experience in DC. read more

My friend and I had a disappointing experience at dlena in Washington DC. The restaurant was very loud, which made it difficult to enjoy our conversation. Our waitress was rude from the start, which set a negative tone for the evening. While the tuna guacamole and ceviche appetizers were good, the drinks left much to be desired. My friend disliked his drink, and no one asked if he'd like a replacement. I ordered my steak rare, but it came out well done. When I sent it back, the staff was obstinate and returned a steak that was too rare. No manager visited our table, and no compensation was offered for the mistake. The waitress's comment that "no female had ever ordered a rare steak" there before and questioning if my upbringing influenced my taste was incredibly unprofessional and offensive. Overall, dlena might be decent for appetizers, but I wouldn't recommend it given the price. The steak, even if cooked properly, didn't feel worth $63. read more

The flavors? Exceptional. The patio? Pure perfection. This review? Completely positive, reflecting our fantastic experience. I'm not even sure where to begin. While we didn't opt for the beloved classic brunch, our dinner of appetizers was both light and flavorful. We were seated promptly and decided to kick things off with sweet mango margaritas. For our meal, the Maryland crab guacamole stood out with generous crab portions and a delicious twist - crispy bread instead of chips. The burrata salad featured refreshing grilled watermelon, creamy burrata, and flavorful heirloom tomatoes. As a delightful conclusion, the rich cheesecake paired wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream on top. The presentations were visually stunning, and we enjoyed it all from their sunny, covered patio. The food arrived promptly, and our server was exceptionally attentive. All in all, it might dent my wallet a bit, but I'm eagerly looking forward to returning! read more

We recently visited DLeña for brunch on a Saturday to celebrate my friend's birthday, and we were thoroughly impressed by the ambiance, the service, and the overall experience. The restaurant has a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that made our celebration feel special. The staff were attentive and friendly, adding to the positive experience. While we felt that the food selection could be improved, the quality of the dishes we tried was excellent. Our favorite plates were the steak and eggs, chilaquiles, churros, and seasonal fruits. Each of these dishes was flavorful and well-prepared. However, we were disappointed with the fish taco, which didn't taste good at all and almost seemed like it was made from frozen fried fish. Overall, we highly recommend DLeña for its great ambiance, excellent service, and high-quality food. It's a fantastic spot for a celebratory brunch! read more