matchbox

148

267

3 years ago

Stopped here with the family for lunch one day, and it was a good experience. I would rate the food is just an average. The fig pizza was just so so. It tasted good, but the crust is very very thin and it was quite chewy. The hamburger sliders were pretty good but it would be better if they were served with french fries instead of a pile of onion straws. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Josh R.

693

912

4 years ago

So good! This place isn't super fancy, but the food hits the spot. They have drinks and beer. The 3.6.9 mini burgers were good. The onion straws were a little too thin. You couldn't taste the onion, and it was mostly breading. The ginormous meatball was good, but the sauce on the pasta that came with it was the best part! Seriously, it was the best thing I had here. The wood-fired garlic bread that came with it was good as well. We also ordered a 14" matchbox meat pizza. The toppings and crust were delicious. I finished with an Oreo milkshake which was good as well. I really wish they had strawberry milkshakes on the menu. They have vanilla and chocolate but not strawberry. read more

matchbox - Ginormous Meatball with pasta and sauce - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

matchbox - Oreo milkshake - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

matchbox - 14" Matchbox Meat Pizza - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

matchbox - 3 - 3.6.9 Mini burgers with cheese - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Gabby T.

134

263

221

4 years ago

We weren't terribly hungry, so we split the Holy Grail Margherita Pizza with gluten free crust and a side of Fries. I'd say the food was fine. It wasn't the best gluten free pizza I've ever had, but also not the worst. The fries were average. There was nothing I'd say that was remarkable about the place, but the staff was very friendly and the restaurant had a nice ambiance inside. read more

matchbox - Holy Grail Margherita Pizza with gluten free crust and a side of Fries - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

John M.

2 years ago

Great food as always with a cool vibe and relaxing ambience to match. Service is a little slow, but they do a good job. I suggest trying the matchbox meat pizza with the cauliflower crust. Other options which never disappoint are the sliders, calamari, simple salad, and scallops available. Bon appétit with a craft cocktail! read more

Business owner information

Thompson R.

Thank you for your positive feedback and for highlighting our…

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Bobbi D.

263

407

2484

4 years ago

Super tasty! Dropped in for lunch and the fried chicken Cobb salad is so yummy!!! Service was good. A bit pricey, but yummy, so all good. Fun mocktails! read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Gwen R.

2 years ago

Awful waitress. She "greeted" us at the door by telling us that we had 45 minutes and then it was going to get crazy busy. Sat us at a tiny table in the middle of the aisle. Apparently, she didn't want to be there. Major attitude. There was no follow up on our meal. Pizza was good but could have baked longer. I do NOT recommend. read more

Business owner information

Thompson R.

We're truly sorry to hear about your less than satisfactory…

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jasmin J.

139

156

7 years ago

The food is always good & consistent! The service is ok! They're not mean or over friendly. They do their job & keep it moving lol! I don't know if that's good or bad! I love the food so I'll definitely return. I haven't ordered any drinks yet but I plan to attend happy hour soon so hopefully the drinks are as good as the food!! read more

Business owner information

Victoria V.

Thank you for taking the time to post a review, Jasmin! We look…

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Nikki N.

3 years ago

I lovedddd having Manuel as my bartender. He was so attentive and knowledgeable about everything on the menu and took his time with us. Highly recommend this location and him!! read more

matchbox - Moscow Mule and Strawberry Mule - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Business owner information

Thompson R.

We're thrilled to hear that you had a great experience with Manuel…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Emily T.

10 months ago

the food here is amazing and the staff is incredibly friendly, the music isnt too loud and im loving the decoration in the store !

Business owner information

Thompson R.

Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Katie N.

309

370

3 years ago

We decided to go to matchbox after seeing the cherry blossoms, it is about a mile walk from the Tidal Basin area. They were packed when we entered and we didn't have a reservation, but we got lucky with open seats at the bar. The food was typical of any matchbox, but the bar service wasn't up to par with what we are used to. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Mariah M.

Elite 24

145

243

140

5 years ago

After a long morning of visiting the National Mall, we landed on Matchbox for a late lunch due to the variety of items on the menu (party of 6). The star item was definitely the onion straws! They were amazing!! The only reason I couldn't give this place 5 stars is because the silverware was dirty, and the salmon ordered by 1 person in the party had a really fishy taste which typically indicates old fish. It was inedible. Service was quick and friendly. Definitely worth a try. Would come back to try the pizza. read more

matchbox - Cobb Salad w/ chicken, and Onion Straws - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

matchbox - Rose spritzer - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

JJ V.

230

2 years ago

This was a wonderful treat for dinner. The service was great, atmosphere perfect. They couldn't have been more accommodating and the food was just delicious! read more

Business owner information

Thompson R.

Thank you for your review. We're happy to know that we've exceeded…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Laura R.

4 years ago

Called in over Easter weekend for a quick dinner. The host on the phone said come on in and we will take care of you, since they expected it to be busy. We order three different meals. I got the steak frites and side salad and a mixed drink. The steak was like butter, it was so good. The food and quality were phenomenal. It was a little on the higher end, but what isn't nowadays? I'm bummed I don't have one in my town because I really enjoyed the lunch, early dinner. read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

David S.

1 year ago

Had an amazing lunch today. The mini burgers with Onion straws were delish and the grilled chicken avocado sandwich with gouda cheese was off the charts delicious!!! Highly recommend. read more

Business owner information

Thompson R.

We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed your lunch, especially the mini…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Lawrence P.

3 years ago

I'm currently sitting in the Matchbox, the food was great. I had a meatball pizza and others in my group got different pizzas and we swapped slices. They were all great. Our server Maurice was on point. He was taking care of a ton of people but made sure to give out table great service. It's my first time in D.C. and this was a great part of it. Off to the Smithsonian ... Try Matchbox folks and tell them that I sent you! Lol jk they won't care read more

matchbox - The Cinnamon Roll disappeared too fast for a picture...sorry - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Linda N.

3 years ago

Had a great meal there yesterday. We didn't have to wait for a table which was awesome. We ordered the crab cake sandwich, Buffalo wings, margherita pizza, chicken sandwich, and eggs Benedict. Everything came out well but the poached eggs on my Benny were a tad sour from the vinegar and one egg was over cooked. I did enjoy the cornbread base, it was a nice change from your classic English muffin. I would still order it again. I don't have any feedback from my family on the other items but my son did say he enjoyed the chicken sandwich. Apologies for the lack of photos, we were hungry! Our server was Maurice, who greeted us with a warm welcome and smile. He even asked how I wanted my eggs, which I thought was strange (because eggs Benedict is traditionally poached) but he said that he tries to be thorough as the iPad has other egg options listed. Guess it never hurts to be careful and thorough as you never know. Good job Maurice! read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Michael O.

217

185

358

5 years ago

This was my first time here at Matchbox. It was pretty slow inside and there were tables a plenty inside and a few outside. This seems like a go to lunch spot for people working in the area. I had the salad with grilled chicken. It was really tasty but I feel the portion wasn't that big. It was really good though but not cheap. I don't think anything sit down in this area of DC is cheap. All in all a good lunch. read more

Helpful 3

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Isidro R.

4 years ago

Lively atmosphere and fast service. Delicious crispy chicken. Shout out to Maurice! Will be back. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Paul T.

2 years ago

Haven't been to Matchbox (in DC) since before the Pandemic. Visited today (for carryout) at the new E. Street location. To my surprize, my meal was sub-par. Not the mouth-watering crabcake sandwich that I so come to enjoy and brag and recommend to friends. Curious, I did research to discover that the "original" Matchbox was purchased. So dissappointing. Ordered the "crispy chicken", which turned out to be charred (burnt) chicken. A total waste of my money! New management should have kept what was previously in place. read more

Business owner information

Thompson R.

We're sorry to hear that your recent experience didn't meet your…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Latonia C.

111

1653

7 years ago

Came for the brunch and was pleased. We got the unlimited option aka the "brunch box" where there's a variety of options to pick from. Although they don't have an unlimited option for drinks, it was still great to be able to get $3 mimosas, Bellinis or bloody Marys with this deal. They are unlimited tapa sized options, as well as full sized pizza (8 of them) so definitely something for everyone to get full off of. The staff was very nice and attentive. She definitely kept the food and drinks coming in a timely manner. She also suggested some different things to try that I may not have so that was great to have that push. Overall a great experience, lots of options and cheap brunch drinks to pick from. You can also choose from their normal cocktail list. read more

matchbox - Arancini - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

matchbox - Avocado toast (brunch) - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

matchbox - Shrimp Grits - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

matchbox - Chicken and waffles (brunch) - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

matchbox - Brunch menu pt1 - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

matchbox - Brunch menu pt2 - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

matchbox - Brunch menu - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

Business owner information

Victoria V.

Thank you so much, Latonia! Your review brought a smile to our faces.…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

E P.

3 years ago

We would come back to this restaurant. Good service and good food. The meatball and the veggie pizzas were really good. The pear salad was also good. The hostess and our waiter were great. We had a reservation and were seated right away. read more

matchbox - Veggie pizza - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Randi M.

Elite 22

418

1279

380

2 years ago

Kind of a mixed bag for me. We came over here after the Air and Space museum. We were looking for something semi-close in walking distance. My wife ordered the pepperoni/meatballs roll. Its an appetizer and was fairly large for the price. I tasted the crust and it was tasty. I ordered the crab cake sandwich. The flavor was good, but the fries were awful. Cold and limp and just sad. If I went back, I'd stick to what they are know for, the pizza. read more

Business owner information

Thompson R.

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We're glad to…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Rajiv P.

2 years ago

Ok pizza. Was expecting a better dough ands texture. Loud environment. Good drinks selection.

Business owner information

Thompson R.

We appreciate your feedback and are sorry to hear that our pizza…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Zakiya M.

2 years ago

The food is good but they kept messing up it was overwhelming but it was good and service was great!!

Business owner information

Thompson R.

We're glad to hear you enjoyed our food and service! We apologize for…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Alice B.

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

207

696

7 years ago

Came here with a large group a couple of weeks ago - note this restaurant is smaller than their other locations and they don't have an area for large groups. Staff was great and accommodating aside from the server at our table who couldn't seem to get our checks correct and acted like it was a huge inconvenience to correct them...not sure what that was about. I tried something new this time and went with the black bean burger with fries. The "burger" itself was a bit crumbly but the flavors were there which is more important. Do yourself a favor and order extra chipotle mayo on the side to dip your fries! The black bean veggie burger patty has little specks of corn throughout and is topped with avocado, tomato, arugula, and crispy tortilla strips. The tortilla strips definitely add a much needed texture to the sandwich and the avocado was nice and creamy. I could have done without the arugula, as mine was a bit wilted and a huge mound at that. The chipotle mayo was the star in my opinion and really elevated the flavor of the dish and gave the sandwich a nice kick. read more

matchbox - Black bean veggie burger with fries - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Business owner information

Victoria V.

Hi Alice,…

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Michelle M.

2 years ago

Food was so good and the service was great! Everyone in our party of 5 was happy with the food we got! Delicious!! Great experience?

Business owner information

Thompson R.

We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed both our food and service!…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Toni S.

Elite 21

141

5 years ago

I came here on a hunch and was not disappointed. I had the spinach artichoke dip and it was DELICIOUS and I followed it with a tuna poke bowl. The tuna poke was delicious and had a hint of spiciness to it that added extra flavor to the plate. I finished the entire plate because taking it home was not possible for me. As for the drinks, I ordered three mules and one margarita and I should have been toasted by the time I left, but I wasn't. That was disappointing which is why I didn't give it 5 stars. I'd come back for the food but not at all for the drinks. read more

matchbox - Tuna Poke Bowl - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Robert M.

5 years ago

Oliver' at the matchbox in Chinatown is the main reason we keep coming back!! We get the best service when he's working, he's always attentive, knowledgeable of every single thing in the bar.and great for casual conversation. Hiis personally livens up the bar and he never fails to tell us about special events at capital one arena. We!! Keep coming back for him.. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Ray L.

1 year ago

Great place. the service and food was top notch. When we are back in DC we would go here again!

Business owner information

Thompson R.

We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed both our service and food! It's…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Lemon C.

112

1014

266

4 years ago

Still disappointed they moved to this location from their more central location in Chinatown. The bathrooms in the basement creep me out. There's no coat hooks in the restaurant. They weren't too busy on this weekday at lunchtime. They have a velvet cloth to separate the front door from the restaurant but they keep one side permanently open which defeats the point of using it! We were there on the coldest winter day and every time the front door opened it was incredibly cold! I got a mushroom pizza and a 10inch size is enough. Very delicious! read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Sh A.

1 year ago

The food was so good. We were there for a Volleyball competition.The manager was so accommodating. We were 2 very large parties and the waiter and staff were very well prepared and friendly. They took the orders without a hitch and divided the bill appropriately. We will definitely be back when we are in town. read more

Business owner information

Thompson R.

We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your dining experience with…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Dustin H.

Elite 15

117

288

188

3 years ago

Come here for happy hour and wasn't disappointed. I had a couple of third lagers and the wings, all off the happy hour special. I was not in the slightest disappointed. The beer was exactly as I would have anticipated and the wings were spot on. They were wet wings with Buffalo sauce, but you could tell they were fried appropriately and not sitting around bc of how crispy they still were. The staff were friendly and even the manager came by to chat with us. I'm definitely going back. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 1

Deb C.

1 year ago

Staff were friendly, food tasted great the menu had a variety to choose from and the atmosphere was cozy.

Business owner information

Thompson R.

We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed our friendly staff, diverse…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Grupo L.

10 months ago

great atmospher, Jackie is one of the manager and she always remember us it make us feel specia. the foodnis always good

Business owner information

Thompson R.

Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're delighted to hear that…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Coco R.

10 months ago

i absolutely loved the food it was amazing and i LOVE the setting! everyone was so sweet and attentive will definitely be going there more while i walk around the city 10/10 , i also recommend this place for something chill but in a nice ambience! read more

Business owner information

Thompson R.

Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Braelyn C.

1 year ago

Went a day ago (Sunday) to enjoy some good old fashion smash burgers with my family -- the service was amazing. The waiter was very kind, the environment was just as aesthetically pleasing and friendly. The chef and waiter were both very kind in accommodating to my allergen and instead of bread buns I was give lettuce bread, so... so good! Will recommend to go for the f1 races played on the screen and best to go for a date night with the girls or couples, or anyone at that. read more

Business owner information

Thompson R.

We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your visit and our smash…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Zion W.

1 year ago

Clarence as our server was amazing. Very personable guy and good service. Would recommend this location.

Business owner information

Thompson R.

We're thrilled to hear that you had a great experience with Clarence…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Tas H.

3 years ago

The food was excellent (we had 2 pizzas and a Caesar salad), our server Maurice was attentive, and I recommend the chicken pesto pizza. The pictured cheese and pepperoni pizza was delicious as well! read more

matchbox - 1/2 cheese, 1/2 pepperoni large pizza - New American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Marc S.

3 years ago

If you're in the DC area, stop by. Good food, great service. Pizza is top notch. Ask for Maurice! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Luis S.

2 years ago

Food was good 8/10 I had chicken sandwhich and my girlfriend had cheeseburger sliders. She gives it 7/10. The waiter had good customer service but everyone else that worked there in the establishment was catering to the other customers. I don't know but they gave this family that sat front of us the best customers service they was asking if the food was good and if everything was okay other hand the waiter we had good customer service but everyone else would walk by us and not ask anything. read more

See all

Business owner information

Thompson R.

We appreciate your feedback and are glad to hear that you enjoyed our…

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Page 5 of 16

750 E St NW
Washington, DC 20004
Penn Quarter
Directions
(202) 289-4441
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
https://matchboxrestaurants.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does matchbox open?

matchbox opens at 11:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.matchbox opens at 9:00 AM on Saturday and Sunday.

What time does matchbox close?

matchbox closes at 9:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.matchbox closes at 11:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Thu 11:00 AM - 9:00 PMFri 11:00 AM - 11:00 PMSat 9:00 AM - 11:00 PMSun 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Payment methods

Does matchbox take credit cards?

Yes, matchbox takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does matchbox have catering options?

Yes, matchbox does have catering options.

Does matchbox have a happy hour?

Yes, matchbox has a happy hour.

Does matchbox serve alcohol?

Yes, matchbox serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does matchbox allow dogs?

Yes, matchbox allows dogs.

Does matchbox have TVs?

Yes, matchbox has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does matchbox have outdoor seating?

Yes, matchbox has outdoor seating options.

Does matchbox have parking?

Yes, matchbox has parking options. Garage Parking, Street Parking, Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Does matchbox have free WiFi?

Yes, matchbox has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Our dishes are hand-crafted, made from quality ingredients, and served with the same care we share with our own families. Turning everyday moments into memories, one plate at a time. Whether you're joining us for our unlimited brunch, our game day specials, happy hour, or dinner - we've got just the pick me up you need to turn your week from good, to great! Real Food. Great Fun. That's the Matchbox way.

History

Established in 2004.

Long before we struck our first match, lit our brick oven and welcomed our first guest, stood a vision for a high energy restaurant with delicious food and drinks that would come to be known for bringing people together. In 2002 we found an old vacant building in the heart of Washington DC and outlined a set of core beliefs that would be the first step in bringing our vision to life. We're known for wood-fired pizzas, mini burgers, fresh salads and chef-inspired entrées, like pan-seared sea bass and oven-roasted filet mignon. It's American bistro fare, crafted from high quality ingredients with a chef at the helm in every kitchen.

Meet the Manager: Nykea J.

I am the General Manager of Matchbox Penn Quarter.

More Info

Health Score

matchbox Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - matchbox

Do they require reservations?

I'm not sure, sorry...

View 2 more answers

Do they still offer a free ten inch kids pizza on Tuesdays?

I'm sorry, I don't know.

View question details

What's up with you food prices? I live in the neighborhood...it's really over priced.

View All 6 Questions

St. Anselm

4.4(1.2k reviews)

1.5 mi

•$$$

First. Get a reservation. This place was packed and rightfully so! It was delicious!…read more We had the Buttermilk Biscuits, Butcher Steak, and Steelhead Trout. All the food was seasoned correctly and served hot. They brought complimentary wine for our anniversary! So awesome! When in the area, I would highly recommend.

The biscuits? TO DIE FOR! The bacon? SO SO GOOD. The steak? PERFECTLY COOKED. The broccoli? TASTY!…read more The serving sizes were great, I was able to share everything with a friend. The service was also great. I'll definitely be coming here again.

Bar area

Grilled Oysters

See all

Carrot Cake

Le Diplomate

4.3(5.8k reviews)

1.2 mi•Logan Circle

•$$$

This was easily one of the strongest dining experiences I've had in Washington. The server knew the…read moremenu inside and out, gave solid recommendations, and stayed on top of everything without hovering. We went with the steak frites, onion soup, and steak tartare, and every dish delivered. Great food backed by service that actually stands out. This place is on my list whenever I'm back in Washington.

Everything in this space is the greatest representation of hospitality I've ever experienced. It's…read moreall so carefully thought through. From the bread to the decorum to the cocktails to the warmth you feel as soon as you walk in. It's unmatched. The Mushroom Tart is perfection. The Foie Gra brings an actual tear to my eye. Pick an item on the menu and I would gladly order it as my last meal. As someone in the industry it's places like this that make me proud to be apart of it and the ENTIRE staff of Le Diplomate deserves a damn Nobel Peace Prize.

Dining area

Escargot

See all

Bar and breads

Unconventional Diner

4.4(3.5k reviews)

0.7 mi•Shaw, Downtown

Brunch at Unconventional Diner is a DC must!…read more The service is impeccable and friendly, and the menu has a nice variety of culinary options, though, I don't feel like there's much of hearty vegetarian options or substitutions. Outdoor seating is nice and quaint, and covered. And plenty of street parking is available. Overall, I highly recommend!

High quality elevated diner food at a reasonable price in DC. Brunch is an option every day before…read more3:45PM. Recommend the corned beef hash. Big chunks of meat, potato with roasted onions and celery, all with a black pepper gravy. Comes with two sunny-side eggs. You will be stuffed. Biscuits are great too. Coffee is solid. Reservations by Resy. Online ordering here https://order.online/store/unconventional-diner-washington-295238

Space is large, bright, and contemporary. Reservations recommended.

Tip-Top Chop

See all

Caribbean Shrimp & Grits

The Hamilton

3.9(4k reviews)

0.5 mi

The Hamilton - Live…read more Being a fan of both the Grateful Dead and Steely Dan, I paid $40 for general seated admission to see Steeley Dead, performing at The Hamilton - Live. The music venue is located below the Hamilton, a storied dining experience in the 600 block of 14th Street in D.C. Doors would open at 6:30 p.m. for a performance that would begin, right on time, at 8 p.m. I travel alone, and prefer not to join tables, opting instead to sit where single seats are available. The Hamilton - Live offers both: most of the seating is in groups of 4- or 6-seat benches where groups gather, and there are rows of single seats on a slight rise above the forward seating, offering a great view of the stage and the screens above the stage. I arrived around 7 p.m. Within minutes Marie greeted me with a menu and instructions to post a card on a holder at my place, signaling her to stop by to take my order. The menu was eclectic, with sushi, pizza, tacos, salads, wings, cheeseburger sliders, and nachos. There are robust vegetarian and gluten-free selections, and a fully licensed bar. I placed the card in the holder at my seat and Marie returned to take my order: sushi - shrimp tempura ($14), with a can of Nutrl Pineapple ($8) and a double G&T ($23.18). The crowd was gathering, and the attending wait staff were moving with speed, filling orders. My meal arrived in great shape about 15 minutes after I placed the order. Nicely executed sushi! Sound quality in the venue is great, and the restroom was clean and well lit. And as the catalogues of both the Dead and Steely Dan inspire dancing, the dance floor was filled right from the start. The band's vibe was low key and spontaneous, with lots of smiling on the dance floor. Total with a 22% tip was $79 (which included a white Russian nightcap). Reasonable fare for the DMV. Taxi, Uber, and Lyft are readily available from the venue.

So happy I was finally able to check out the Hamilton!…read more Came here on a solo date and had a great experience. When I walked in, I was greeted by the wonderful staff. The time I came in was when they were getting ready for dinner so I promptly sat at the bar. The menu for the Hamilton is extensive and I was presently surprised at all the options I had. I loved that the sushi was half off and vowed to come back to try it. For this visit, I had the pork chop and the crab fried rice. For an appetizer, I had the crab soup. Everything was delicious and came out promptly. The flavoring of the food was amazing and I had leftovers to take home. I will definitely be back!

The bar and partial dining area.

Ragu Americana & Rigatoni - delicious, fresh pasta

See all

RAGU AMERICANA & RIGATONI

Yardbird

Best meal in the area. Service was spectacular. Atmosphere was quite and peaceful. Ribs and…read moremac-n-cheese were excellent. We appreciated very much after a week of mediocre meals at best.

Food was phenomenal! The chicken and waffles were amazing! Service was great and it was a kind and…read morefriendly environmen.

32oz Porterhouse

Lobster Mac & Cheese

See all

Y.B.G.M.

Ted's Bulletin 14th

5/5 dining experience. High top tables were great for seating 4. Both the server and the hostess…read morewere very nice. Recommend making a reservation because it gets busy! Chicken and waffles meal was really delicious! The farmer's scramble was really nice as well, and it had a ton of vegetables. Really loved the vegetarian options! Breakfast is available all day. Pop tart was so delicious that we got two more to go. Enjoyed the blueberry, peach, and cherry. These are rotated out seasonally! The strawberry milkshake was a nice portion and they even brought out the extra in another glass.

We went think we would start off our pumpkin spice season at Ted's Bulletin but they sold out by…read morethe time we got there. Then we wanted something else with pumpkin spice and that was also sold out. So we did finally order. I ordered the braised short rib which was delicious. Now the ultimate reason for the rating is because they charged us an automatic 5% service fee and we weren't aware of that. We didn't see it posted or written on the menu and then they want us to pay tax and tip on top of that. It's too much. Which also makes me expect stellar service from the staff. No hiccups, no mistakes, no I'm sorry buts, just great service because I have to pay for it! It is not the responsibility of the customers to pay your staff's wages. So the no pumpkin spice anything from the menu and the service fee just blew me but my food was good so I had to give them that.

See all

Chloe

4.5(764 reviews)

1.9 mi•Navy Yard

I went to CHLOE in DC and honestly, I've walked past this place so many times and had no idea there…read morewas a gym inside. I love that they have a whole fried fish because the presentation alone is spectacular. They also had a featured menu, I'm not sure if it changes weekly or monthly, and my date got the curry shrimp which was honestly a really good size portion. I was super tired that day so we were kind of in and out, but I'd definitely go back. The drinks were good too. Cute place and solid service - loved the bread as well

Food 8/10 Atmosphere 9/10…read moreService 3/10 Came here for DC Summer Restaurant Week and unfortunately left pretty disappointed, especially for the price point. First off, there seemed to be only one waiter handling around 7-8 tables. Tables on both sides of us were visibly getting frustrated with how slow the service was. We came to enjoy ourselves and weren't in a rush, so we didn't mind waiting as much, but the service was noticeably slow. Interestingly, the actual dishes came out fairly quickly, but everything else--ordering, drinks, checking in, and getting things we needed--took a long time. For a restaurant at this price point, I was also expecting the overall experience and atmosphere to feel a little more elevated. It didn't really feel particularly upscale or special, and the bathrooms were noticeably dirty, which was surprising and definitely took away from the experience. Overall, the food was decent, but between the understaffed service, cleanliness, and atmosphere, I didn't feel the experience matched the price. Restaurant Week is usually a great opportunity to try a higher-end restaurant and want to come back, but unfortunately I don't think I'd return at the regular menu prices.

1.0 mi•Logan Circle, Downtown

Restaurant area

Hangar Steak

See all

Manchego cheesecake

ChurchKey

3.9(1.5k reviews)

Great local bar with large rotating craft beer selection. Highly recommend for any beer…read moreenthusiast. They have wine and cocktails as well. They are happy to recommend beer for your taste, and let you sample. It can be very busy and difficult to get a seat at the bar or get a table on a Friday or Saturday evening. We ordered food, and were expecting elevated bar food. The tater tots were a huge disappointment- they were very large squares , bland, and not crispy. The wings were okay. The cheeseburgers were the best- from the restaurant downstairs- mallard. Huge burger, done perfectly medium.

Here's a review written as part of a visit to both Churchkey and Birch & Barley (the downstairs…read morerestaurant -- together they form the "2 Enjoy Everything" concept by Neighborhood Restaurant Group): A DC Gem That Delivers on Every Level If you haven't made it to Churchkey on 14th Street yet, move it to the top of your list. I visited as part of the full experience -- dinner downstairs at Birch & Barley, then up to Churchkey for drinks -- and honestly, it's one of the best evenings I've had in DC. Churchkey itself is everything a great bar should be. The beer selection is absolutely unreal -- hundreds of carefully curated labels spanning every style, region, and flavor profile you can imagine. What sets it apart is that the staff actually knows the menu. Our server walked us through a few options based on what we liked and landed us on perfect picks both times. That kind of genuine expertise is rare. The tavern pizzas from the wood-fired oven were a wonderful surprise -- thin, crispy, and the perfect companion to a cold draft. The smash burger also deserves a mention: simple, well-executed, and hits the spot. The vibe is warm and lively without being overwhelming. Great for a date, a group, or even just sitting at the bar solo with a good beer and good conversation with the bartender. This place has earned its reputation as one of the best beer bars on the East Coast -- and then some. Highly recommend making a full night of it with both floors. You won't regret it. Feel free to adjust the tone or add any personal details from your actual visit!

See all

Stairs

The Smith

3.9(1.8k reviews)

0.1 mi•Penn Quarter

We stopped in for Happy Hour. Or as they call it "Martini Happy Hour."…read moreWe enjoyed a dirty vodka martini and a dirty blue Martini - made with bleu cheese stuffed olives and a bleu cheese vermouth. Nicely priced at $12 each. Also served with the cocktails were a bottle of still and a bottle of sparkling water - very welcomed on our August 20,000 step sight-seeing tour. We ordered the $12 shrimp cocktail - 5 decent shrimp with two sauces. The $7 fries were insane! If we're in the area again on this trip, we'll definitely stop in again for Martini Happy Hour.

Dined in restaurant on a Saturday around 8pm. When I approached the hostess table, she asked "table…read morefor 2?" even though I was by myself. She was most likely on auto pilot and appeared embarrassed when she realized it. I politely smiled and said (confidently), table for 1. We solo diners need to be loud and proud! I digress... Before being seated I found the restroom. I found it odd that it was extremely dim. The main dining room was brighter than the restroom! I also saw the Photo Booth. Interesting addition. $5 for pictures. I was seated at a small round table with two chairs by the window. The restaurant was plenty busy, and I'm just glad I wasn't asked if I wanted to sit at the bar (I didn't). My server Noel brought two bottles of water: still and sparkling. I requested lemon slices, which he brought. And I proceeded to finish the entire bottle of sparkling by the end of the meal...guess I was thirsty! But I appreciated the option of both. I forgot to ask for a straw, but saw them in a container at the register right behind my table, so I got one myself. After ordering I noticed a nearby table had some bread so I asked Noel if they served complimentary bread. He said yes and apologized for not bringing it initially. Not that I needed it, but I don't eat bread with butter often and this was a night out to indulge a bit. There were two slices, nothing special. My food arrived within about 10-15 minutes and looked so scrumptious. I ordered the lamb and short rib meatballs and Brussels sprouts. The meatballs were pretty good, but what made them even better was the tzatziki sauce. I didn't realize the green rice was on one side of the plate until I was almost done. That tzatziki sauce was really all I needed to go with the meatballs. It was cool and creamy to go with the dry, meatiness of the meatballs. I honestly wish there had been more of it! I did not finish the rice, which didn't look super appetizing because of the intense green color. I will say though, I'm not a fan of spicy food but the tzatziki had a kick. I think perhaps due to chopped jalapeños. I tried to avoid them once I realized. The Brussels were delicious! Roasted to perfection, not too charred and not too mushy. I requested the green goddess sauce on the side because I'm not a huge sauce person, but once I tried it, I couldn't stop. Again, the combination of the creaminess of the sauce with the flakiness of the Brussels was a genius pairing. During the meal the beverage manager stopped by. I didn't have any drinks with the meal, but perhaps I will return to see what they have. Noel brought the bill at my request, then brought over the portable device so I could pay at the table. While that process is efficient, it's always awkward leaving a tip when the server is standing right there. Anyhow, overall it was a good experience and a delicious meal!

3/27/25 At the bar!

Potato Chips

See all

Restaurant space

The Capital Burger

4.3(1.2k reviews)

0.5 mi

This place is sooo good! Perfect ambiance, the vibe is kind of a modern pub without being dark and…read moredreary, big comfortable booths, plenty of space to not feel like you're part of someone else's conversation. Honestly we were so pleasantly surprised by how good the burgers are! I had the Capital Burger which had such incredible flavor and the burger itself is thick and juicy. Despite having just had a big dinner somewhere else, as I write this, my mouth is watering. My daughter had the wild mushrooms burger and she loved it -- the aioli had the perfect tang to go with the mushroom and Swiss, both burgers were cooked perfectly medium as requested. The old fashioned was just your typical old fashioned with a slice of candied bacon attached to the outside of the glass. We were hoping for something smokier and a little different but it was still a very good Old Fashioned. We shared the chocolate mousse and it was perfection. Yum! If I lived here this would be my new regular spot.

I'll keep it simple here: the burger was legit. I really enjoyed it and I would definitely order…read morefrom here again. The fries were good too. Plus we had a good time dining outside while the weather was nice. They also made a solid strong old fashioned which i would come back for. Overall good burger, good fries and good drinks. What more can you ask for?

The Capital Burger - Our Stoli Doli spiked shake is long sought & loudly slurped. Stoli Vodka hand-spun w/rich vanilla ice cream & topped w/candied pineapple

Our Stoli Doli spiked shake is long sought & loudly slurped. Stoli Vodka hand-spun w/rich vanilla ice cream & topped w/candied pineapple

Blue Cheese and Truffle Burger topped with cabernet-braised red onions.

See all

The Capital Burger offers signature burgers, handcrafted cocktails, local brews and award-winning wines.

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

179 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Ashley B.

275

612

2 years ago

After a busy day exploring DC, Matchbox in Penn Quarter was exactly what we were looking for! It has a lively, sports-bar vibe but with a unique twist, offering specialty pizzas and a big menu that felt both fun and welcoming. It's also close to the National Mall, making it a convenient stop. I ordered the pepperoni and hot honey pizza, which was fantastic - just the right balance of spicy and sweet. My partner went with a salad, and we were pleasantly surprised by the large portion size, perfect for a hearty meal. Initially, my Moscow Mule order came out as one of their signature beers instead, but our waitress quickly noticed and brought me the correct drink while letting me keep the beer. Both were delicious, and the service was so accommodating, which made for a nice experience! With reasonable prices and such a diverse menu, from pizzas with unique flavors to classic bar options, Matchbox is a spot I'd definitely recommend for anyone wanting a relaxed but exciting dining experience in DC. read more

Brenda R.

See more unrecommended reviews

102

1 year ago

The food was delicious! As pizza lovers, we had to try "The Pig" -- a thin-crust pizza that was perfectly cooked with a crispy edge and great flavor. We also ordered the crab and shrimp fettuccine, which our server recommended. It did not disappoint! The sauce was rich and flavorful, and the seafood was cooked just right. I also tried the strawberry rose margarita, and it was made to perfection -- refreshing and well-balanced. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere in the restaurant was lively and welcoming. We'll definitely be back! read more

Lilly W.

4 years ago

This is a mixed review because I come to this place to see one of the best servers and bartenders named T. He is absolutely fantastic and the reason I continue to come even after the manager that's on duty, Richard I believe is a total creep and the first time I went he came to my table asking me some weird personal questions and then today when I went back to see the bartender that I adore he made me feel SO UNCOMFORTABLE. This absolutely should be addressed by Matchbox. Please no more creepy managers on duty. read more

Amelia H.

4 years ago

We loved our experience at the Matchbox. We had a large group (25), and we were coming in at the end of the day after a search for a peanut-free establishment. Maurice took great care of us, even though it must have been the end of a long day. Double-checking our orders with a smile on his face, and very conversational, giving us a fun dinner experience. The food was great; not a bite was left on a plate at our table. We had a second group return this week, due to the great service we received. read more

Stephen F.

4 years ago

Tee is the man. I came to this fine establishment with high hopes and Tee's hospitality and attention to detail was second to none. He treated myself and my friends with dignity and respect. He was super helpful, I had questions about the soup de jour and he answered them all and really helped me make an informed decision. Tee was really great his wit and sense of humor provided light banter and an atmosphere fitting of a king. Gawd speed Tee read more

Colton S.

4 years ago

I was in town visiting my sister and we stumbled upon this restaurant for a nice brunch spot! As soon as we sat down at the bar, Tee took us under his wing and made sure we were taken care of from start to finish! He recommended drinks, food, and made it a super personable experience. This was exactly what we were looking for as they offer all day brunch and bottomless mimosa specials!! Highly recommend--ask for Tee at the bar! read more

Torre H.

7 years ago

Wow, what an experience! From the food, to the cleanliness of the table tops. everything was top notch. My family and I all enjoyed our meals (highly recommend the meatball pizza). We were greeted by Nicholas who introduced himself as the manager. It was refreshing to see the time, effort and care the GM and employees put into their work. 10/10 would recommend to a friend. I will certainly be back again, keep it up! read more

Nia J.

4 years ago

My experience at Matchbox started off amazing the first 30 seconds because our waiter Maurice remembered our faces from a year ago on my birthday! He's such a vibe he makes the experience worth it. Besides our amazing customer service, the food was incredible! You know you've made the right choice when you come a year later and the food is the exact way that made you fall in love the first time! Best Location! read more

Rolf Å.

7 years ago

Exceptional service at this place and the food was GREAT!! Maurice and Shavon waited on us and I can't say enough about these two! Had a reservation and we were seated immediately. We had two pizzas. A chicken pesto and a meat pizza. Both we're excellent and would highly recommend this place. My son (12) recently discovered Shirley Temples and they made sure his was refilled. He gives the drink a thumbs up! read more

Osob S.

7 years ago

What can I say other than this is one of my favorite locations for lunch or dinner or anything else in between. The staff is the best, great customer service, very accommodating, and friendly (look for Javi). It's hard to find that combination in downtown/Penn Quarters area, but Matchbox will not disappoint! Stay and enjoy the convos, don't just grab your food to go, I promise, you will keep coming back! read more

Lito H.

7 years ago

Today was my first time at the new location for lunch and I must say the service was exceptional. The host (lighskinned Black woman) greeted my guest and I immediately and escorted us to our table. Our waiter Maurice, along with trainee Charday, provided great service and pleasant conversation. They provided recommendations and and suggested we try the new items on the menu. I will be back soon! read more

Alexandra U.

7 years ago

We came to matchbox for the first time for Sunday brunch. The brunchbox concept is amazing - all small dishes easily shareable and discounted mimosas! It was perfect to get a little bite of everything. The staff, and especially our waiter Dante, was great - super friendly and helpful. We can't wait to go back again. I would highly recommend checking it out, especially at such a great location! read more

Jennifer B.

7 years ago

I have been to Matchbox Penn Quarter twice in the past month. It is quickly becoming our favorite. The food (Risotto meatballs yum!), the drinks, and the service are excellent from the hostess, the server (Maurice is excellent and attentive), and manager who brought us a sample plate of risotto meatballs. I also really like the industrial type decor. I will definitely be coming back for more! read more

Charles N.

292

7 years ago

Matchbox is an amazing, personal experience with incredible food. You can come here and get something new and it will always be delicious. Catie was an extremely attentive manager and made the experience all the more wholesome. This is one of many times I've eaten at Matchbox, and I have never enjoyed it so much. If you are in the area, you must check out this restaurant for a quality time. read more

Candace G.

7 years ago

My friends and I had a great lunch here yesterday. We all enjoyed our food so much. Even my friend who is posh and picky said her burger was delicious, and she got that face. You know that face. The O face. Anyway, our server Maurice was so awesome, we never had to ask for anything. He was on top of refills and checking on us just the right amount. All around great lunch and great service! read more

Morris A.

7 years ago

My first time at the Penn Quarter location. I was a little apprehensive but once we were seated and our waitress introduced herself the experience was hands down our best of any Matchbox we have experienced to the day! Our savior Cigi was on point from the beginning of the meal until we departed. She was engaging and attentive. We will definitely make another appearance to Penn Quarter!!!! read more

Hannah M.

7 years ago

We have always loved Matchbox! We used to go to the Chinatown location. This was our first time at the new Penn Quarter location. We had an excellent experience--delicious pizza as always, and our server Maurice provided wonderful service and was very attentive and nice! Thank you to Matchbox for always delivering a great casual dining experience (and being our favorite pre-movie spot!). read more

Savannah C.

4 years ago

I came from out of town and im so glad I came to this restaurant. They have so many food options and everything tasted amazing! I had the dynamite shrimp to start 10/10, the mambo chicken sandwich 10/10. I highly recommend this place. Also our server, Tee was so great. we had a huge party and he was so attentive, helpful and kind. its also black owned which is the icing on the cake! read more

Julie J.

7 years ago

Excellent pizza! Each person in our group got a different kind and they were all delicious. Our server Maurice was fantastic. We were from out of town on a work trip and all needed separate checks on top of needing our alcohol placed on a separate check thnt our food for reimbursement purposes and he was so accommodating and efficient! Would definitely go back if we visit again. read more

Rich S.

4 years ago

Great lunch with my wife and son. Started with a fun mocktail for my son and sparkling water for my wife and me. Maurice, our server, was fantastic. The food at Matchbox never disappoints. We split the mini burgers three ways. They were delicious. My wife enjoyed rhe poke bowl and my son and I shared a large pizza. What a welcoming team and wonderful meal. Thank you! read more

matchbox - newamerican - Updated September 2026

People who viewed matchbox also viewed

Ted's Bulletin Noma

(245 reviews)

Yummy, good service, would return if we lived in the area or visited again! We had breakfast on…read morethe day we were returning home and it was perfect.

I've met a few Teds in my day, but this one topped them all. I traveled to DC for business and…read moreleisure purposes, and one night, my party of five decided to ring up Ted for a date in a booth. Ted's Bulletin Noma is a short walk from the hotel I rested my sad little head at, so two minutes after walking in, we were seated in the dark-lit environment that almost put me back to sleep. Despite the nearby ceiling vent dripping condensation on the right shoulder of the highest-paid individual in our group, we enjoyed the deviled eggs app and refreshing tap water. I ordered the chicken and biscuits, and I must say, I'd sell my soul for those dead bird sandwiches. The server was young and energetic, but the service was slower than that of Suddenlink internet. I'll be back once I finally get a raise to afford the $3 sausage gravy add-on next time.

Scarlet Oak

3.6

(445 reviews)

The bottomless brunch is a $25 fee for mix and match mimosas, Bellinis, espresso martinis, white…read moresangria, Miller Lites, and Bloody Mary! The waitress regularly came over every 10-15 minutes :) If you're anything like me, it's hard to choose just one drink so I love that you can pick any of those. The Brussels sprouts were a bit over crisped but edible. The ricotta spread- amazing! I ordered carne asada burrito for my main and it was pretty good- lots of meat and eggs.

Scarlet Oak is a top-5 must try in the Navy Yard-Ballpark-Barracks Row- Cap South area…read more We had lunch there Saturday to celebrate a birthday. My daughter had the grilled cheese and tomato soup. She loved it. Unique cheese blend and thick chewy bread. Wife and I had pizza - half mambo and half pepperoni. Both were delicious. For apps we had the fried cheese - a unique long single stick-!; the risotto balls - a house tribute to arancini balls that is perfect because it stands on its own and isn't a disappointing attempt to be Sicilian - lots of cheese. Dessert was "nuggets" - biscoff cookies and cream ice cream with a lotus cookie crumb coating dipped in biscoff caramel butter - the best dessert I've had in DC. 3 people with apps, 2 mocktails, food and desserts came out to $81 plus tip. Service was great. Highly recommended!

Art and Soul

3.4

(1.1k reviews)

The vibe is chic and comfortable, very nice for a date or family brunch…read more I'd rate the food a 9/10 (due to lacking flavor and ingredients when it came to our table however, the server explained there was a new chef in the kitchen and promptly corrected the issue). The lemon ricotta on the toast was my absolute favorite part of the meal! Quite pricey for a family brunch, but a great atmosphere and delicious option located right downtown and walking distance from local hotels.

I finally made my way to Art and Soul inside the YOTEL Washington DC for brunch, and I have to say…read moreit was a pretty average experience. We arrived around 12:30 on a Saturday without a reservation. After reading several reviews beforehand, I saw multiple people mention that reservations really were not necessary because brunch is usually not very busy. They were absolutely right. There was only one other party in the restaurant when we walked in, and they were leaving as we were being seated. If you are looking for a last minute brunch spot, this is definitely one where you can probably walk right in. The restaurant itself has a clean, modern atmosphere with plenty of natural light. It is quiet and relaxed, making it a nice place if you want a slower paced brunch without the usual DC crowds. The dining room is comfortable, although it could have used a little more energy. Evelyn was our server, and she was very pleasant throughout our meal. She was kind and professional, but it felt like her attention was somewhere else. Considering we were the only table in the restaurant, I expected a bit more attentiveness. I am not sure what she was juggling behind the scenes, but service felt slower than it should have been with such a light crowd. We started with the cinnamon roll, and unfortunately, it was the biggest disappointment of the meal. It was hard, dry, and honestly tasted like it came straight from the grocery store. I have absolutely no issue with a store bought pastry, but at the very least, warm it up. Serving it cold and stale was a strange choice and made a poor first impression. For our entrees, Willie ordered the egg and cheese sandwich, which was simple and satisfying. I went with the Greek yogurt bowl and added a side of crispy turkey bacon. Let me tell you, that turkey bacon was AMAZING. It was perfectly crisp without being overcooked and ended up being my favorite thing on the table. We also customized the lemon blueberry pancakes so they would be something both of us could enjoy, and that turned out to be a good decision. They were light, fluffy, and had a pleasant lemon flavor without being overly sweet. I paired everything with a pineapple juice, which was refreshing and complemented brunch nicely. Overall, the food was a mixed bag. There were a few bright spots, especially the turkey bacon and pancakes, but nothing that really made me eager to rush back. The cinnamon roll was a complete miss, and the service, while friendly, lacked the attentiveness I expected given how empty the restaurant was. Art and Soul feels like one of those places that works if you are staying at the YOTEL or simply need a convenient brunch without a wait. It is comfortable, easy to get into, and has a few menu items worth ordering. However, in a city like Washington, DC that has so many outstanding brunch options, I do not see this becoming a regular stop for me. Overall rating: 6.9/10. I would come back if I did not have anywhere else in mind, but it would not be my first brunch recommendation.

Tortino Restaurant

(884 reviews)

Our meals tasted as good as they looked-- our starters and entrees were beautifully plated. We had…read morethe caprese salad and portobello mushrooms and then the lamb chops and lamb shank. Service was attentive and efficient. We'll be back. .

Had dinner here after a long day at a convention. It was just what we needed. Pedro was an…read moreexcellent server. He was attentive and informative. It was a small sized restaurant but was just right. Had the crab ravioli for dinner and the crème brûlée for dessert. Both were delicious!

Sette Osteria

3.4

(816 reviews)

Fantastic Italian restaurant. Great food, service and prices! Elegant dining that is also inviting…read morefor casually dressed customers such as ourselves on this occasion. We ordered the SAFFRON MUSHROOM RISSOTO. It is super delicious and a great representation of Italian risotto. It had a nice buttery texture with flavorful mushrooms. I also ordered a SIDE OF BREAD, which I is baked fresh in the wood fired oven. It is actually their pizza dough. We had a late lunch, and they allowed my daughter and I to share an entree without any extra charge. They have a good wine selection, mostly Italian, of course.

I recently went to Sette Osteria with my wife and a friend for a weekend dinner and the composite…read more3.5 stars that Sette Osteria has sums up my experience well. Great service, good ambiance, average at best food. The dishes ranged from not good to decent. We shared the following dishes: Focaccia: The focaccia was Roman-style pinsa crust. While not was I was expecting, it was fresh, warm, tasty, and great with the olive oil and pepper on the table. Tuna tartare: Not a great dish. The toasted bread was fine; however, the tuna did not taste fresh, it was extremely oily, the avocado puree added way too much fat, and there needed to be more acid. The tuna tartare is probably out of place on Setta Osteria's menu more broadly. Gnocchi: The gnocchi were very creamy, although a bit salty and gummy. Margherita: A solid pizza, with a good crust, tasty sauce, decent cheese, and good ratios Funghi: The crust was good, but the spinach was overcooked and wilted, and the mushrooms had minimal flavor. We shared the tiramisu for dessert, which was average at best. Sette Osteria is a solid option for a business lunch or if you are with picky eaters; there are other dining options in the area I would recommend instead.

Immigrant Food at The White House

(286 reviews)

I've been to Immigrant Food's White House location before for drinks and apps with a friend and had…read moresuch a lovely time, and I've also visited the Planet Word location when guests come into town. Every experience I've had with Immigrant Food has been fantastic. Great food, creative drinks, and consistently warm service. This visit was with a larger group after a private tour at the Renwick, and the team at Immigrant Food was incredibly accommodating with all of the last minute group size updates and timing changes leading up to our arrival. They handled everything smoothly and made the experience stress free. This time I had the french fries and samosas, which were both delicious. I've also had the Heritage before and absolutely loved it. Everyone at the table enjoyed their dishes and drinks, which says a lot for a larger group outing. I really love the concept behind Immigrant Food and the way they creatively blend and celebrate flavors from different cultures. It's one of those places that feels thoughtful, welcoming, and genuinely unique while still being approachable and fun. Definitely one of my favorite spots in DC.

Pros: reasonably priced, good happy hour until 6:30, food is pretty good, convenient to metro,…read morepeaceful atmosphere inside Cons: no hand crafted cocktails. The planet word location has an awesome cocktail menu, but way less food choices. This one has a good food menu but the drink menu isn't as good. I wish it was just one combined awesome restaurant!

Cafe Fiorello DC

(63 reviews)

We have been dining at Cafe Fiorello since they opened in Washington, D.C., and we keep returning…read morebecause the food is always excellent. The Spaghetti & Meatballs--and frankly, all of their pastas--are outstanding, and their thin-crust pizzas are a regular, delicious favorite of ours. This past Saturday, we introduced two of our long term friends to the restaurant for their first visit, and they absolutely loved both the food and the service. The entire staff is professional and incredibly welcoming. A special thank you to Esther, Chris, and Kia for their wonderful hospitality, and to the management team for doing an incredible job ensuring we had a fantastic time. From the shareable appetizers to the entrees, desserts, wine list, and cocktail selection, everything was terrific. Hands down the best Italian restaurant in D.C.!

Initially thought this was a coffee shop. It's an Italian restaurant! It's spacious with a cute…read morebar. We came in for happy hour. They have great specials on drinks and food! Happy hour is from 3 -6 and only in the bar and on the patio. It was a warmer day so we did the bar. Service was great. I did a bourbon cocktail ("all chips are down"). It was really good. A few in our group got the espresso martini and seemed to like it. Can't wait to visit again and try one of their entrees. Yes, I'll be back!

Nostra Cucina

4.4

(169 reviews)

i wish we had this in california, BIG PORTIONS AND ABSOLUTELY IMPACTFUL!!…read more- a lot of sauce for the portion of noodles -flavorful -cheesy

Nostra is a nice and cozy neighborhood gem. Our family made same day reservations and they were…read morenice enough to accommodate us for dinner. We were off to a good start with the tangy and fresh Greek salad. My husband and shared the chicken marsala. It worked for us but wouldn't say it's a sharing portion. The Marsala sauce was smooth, little peppery and slightly sweet the way you would want. Slathering it all over made up for the chicken that could've been better. The Marsala was better than my daughter's piccata that had the same issue with little tough chicken and a too-sour sauce. The subtle sweet and citrusy flavor of the Lemonchello cake was so good. Had a little envy noticing other people's red sauce items like bolognese and chicken parm. These looked great and would be back to try. Service was friendly and the place is cute but no frills.

Ella's Wood Fired Pizza

3.7

(884 reviews)

We got a Margherita and a BBQ Chicken pizza along with a Pollo Linguine and we killed it. My kids…read moreabsolutely loved being able to see the wood fire oven and getting to see the process of their food! If the empty plates don't say it the food is great. We were served by all the staff, even the manager and not because anyone was slacking, but just because the staff worked as a team. The atmosphere is laid back and great for people to meet to talk business or for families like ours!

I was really debating between 2 and 3 but at the end of the day I asked myself if I would ever want…read moreto come here again and the answer was a very clear no. We had a lot of issues with our meal but some of them may have been one-offs. The real, number one issue that makes it impossible to come here again is that the pizza was basically awful. I ordered the 4 cheese pizza or whatever pizza it is that is all cheese and no red sauce. When the guy set it down in front of me the cheese giggled like jello. My friend turned to me and said "Did you see how all the herbs on top literally moved when he sat it down?" It was that visible. Then when I picked up a slice to insert in mouth, the cheese literally slid off the slice and onto the plate in a big pile of glop. I had to fork and knife it and ended up leaving most of it glow. I wasn't the only one. Somehow my friend's pizza was equally "soupy" (his word) but also the crust was burned. Soups all around at our table of four. The next issue is drinks. Cocktails were decent and priced fair for the area, but my diet coke was $5 and they literally brought me a can, so no refills. Seriously? It is cool that they have Dr. Brown's as an option but no diet and also, $5 for a can I can buy at the Italian Store in Arlington or at the Italian Deli in Dupont. The soupy pizza and $5 cans of soda together make this place a no go for me on their own. But that isn't all that went wrong for us when we went. Our waitress was just not having a good night. This could have been a one off so can't judge the whole restaurant by it, however I will say it's pretty clear she was not well trained so maybe she was just new but if so she needed more help and that is on management. First, she spilled my water all over me when she set the tray of waters down. Just water, fine. And she was profusely apologetic. But then I literally had to tell her that someone needed to mop up the floor. Nobody offered to do anything about it - no manager apology, no comped beverage or free app...someone could at the very least have given me my can of diet coke for less than $5. Then she went to take our orders and I ordered first and had to make kind of a big thing because I am allergic to basil and it's a pizza restaurant so...yeah. The allergy thing they actually handled pretty well, but you would also think my order would have been memorable right? So then she takes the other three orders and then comes back to me to ask for my order again as though we hadn't just had a 5 minute conversation about basil. Unsettling. When it was time to order cocktails we ordered directly off the cocktail menu but she literally could not understand what cocktail I was ordering, a sazerac, and acted like she had never heard of one before. Bro it is literally on your cocktail menu. Then when it came to pay we asked to split the meal 50/50 across two credit cards. She couldn't figure it out and came to my friend and said his card was rejected. Which like...if you know my friend you'd know that was an impossibility. He literally got up and walked over to her station to figure out what the deal was. Apparently she kept trying to run the same card twice and so the system kept returning "duplicate charge" and from that she somehow got that his card didn't work so he had to explain to her that she needed to run the second card. Ambiance was adequate I guess? Pizzas came out fast (possibly causally connected to them being soup?). I dunno. I just don't know why I would ever come here again.

Via Sophia

3.8

(283 reviews)