Stopped by Puddin after work. I got the shrimp étouffée. I don't usually go for shrimp, but this one completely won me over. It was rich, comforting, and hearty. Exactly what I needed after a long day. Definitely one of those dishes that fills you up in the best way. I also tried the brown butter bourbon bread (without the ice cream on top), and it was absolutely amazing. It was rich in flavor and not too sweet. It was just right. The owner mentioned the ice cream on top is a must try, so I'm definitely going back for that. Highly recommend if you're craving something soulful and satisfying. The service was quick because they already made the étouffée and the owner let us try different items so we could get our favorite. The ambience was just like any other place in a food hall, but the owner made me feel welcomed and answered any questions I had. read more

Puddin' - étouffée - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Oh EM Gee!!! We were in DC for the night and ate overpriced, flavorless food at the Morrow unfortunately. I immediately left their restaurant and looked up nearby spots. I saw Puddin and knew I had to try it. I love food with flavor like Cajun and Thai. My husband picked up the shrimp n grits and the shrimp étouffée and brown butter pudding. STOP THE PRESS! This food is AMAZING!! The flavor is delicious and savory as you could only imagine. Hands down one of the best Cajun meals I've ever had. Love they didn't have sausage in this to create the Smokey flavor. I don't eat meat so this just hit the spot on so many levels! So affordable, service was quick! You can't beat this meal. Located in Union Market. Puddin' did not miss!!! One of my favs in DC! read more

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I took a suggestion from YELP! and decided to give this place a shot. I had really high hopes! My high hopes were exceeded when it came to the friendly customer service! But the food, unfortunately, surprised me. I was not warned about how spicy the gumbo would be. I normally enjoy food with a"kick", but if I knew the spice level of the gumbo, I wouldn't have ordered it, since I was trying to rehabilitate my stomach after a bout with AR. It was too spicy for me. Also, the consistency was thicker than I expected. But, I know that gumbo is a dish that everyone has their own recipe for. The shrimp and grits was enjoyable! The bread pudding was not our favorite. Portion sizes were large. The food was hot and fresh! The meal was packaged "to go" very well. Utensils were included. We struggled to find a spot to sit and eat inside the food hall. We ended up at a communal table that needed some cleaning. There were tables outside, but it was very hot. Overall, we were excited to try Puddin', but found that we have different taste preferences. read more

Puddin' - Shrimp 'n Grits - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Can't wait to come back. Love how they will offer you a sample before placing your order. There is nothing worse than spending money on food that isn't good. This was my first time having fried shrimp and grits and I was not disappointed!! Grits were nice and creamy, shrimp cooked to perfection with a nice touch of seasoning. Now, I'm not the biggest bread pudding person but this right here made me want to order a medium. Going here on a busy Saturday and getting that customer service that they offer was a bonus on top. I can't wait to come back and try the Gumbo! read more

Puddin' - Shrimp 'n Grits - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Puddin' at Union Market, DC I travel for food, and Puddin' was an unexpected hidden gem -- my first visit, but definitely not my last! Right away, I loved that they offer samples (a foodie's dream!). The staff was super friendly, and the service had that warm, Southern charm. It's true comfort food that warms the soul. To start, I sampled the bourbon bread pudding, shrimp & grits, and red beans & rice -- all incredible. It felt like New Orleans in your backyard, but right here in DC. And let me confess: I've never been a bread pudding fan... until now. Puddin' completely changed my mind. I'll only get it from here from now on! I ordered the shrimp gumbo with rice, and it was absolute chef's kiss perfection -- rich, flavorful, and hearty. The setup is one of the many vibrant food counters inside Union Market, and it's the perfect spot to cozy up as the weather cools down. Plus, there's free street parking, which is always a bonus in DC. Bottom line: Try it before you buy it -- and then thank yourself later. Puddin' serves up soulful comfort food that hits every note. read more

Puddin' - Shrimp and chicken gumbo and rice . - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Whew! Where to begin??? Great portion size and delicious flavors all around. Did my best to eat in moderation, as the bread pudding was so indulgent. Service was quick, and the staff were friendly. read more

We were super attracted to this stall because of how personal it felt. We love the picture of grandpa. I think they're offering something really unique to this scene of food stalls, and it's not a big team that's pumping out orders. The menu is simple and to the point. The food is well seasoned. We ordered the Po'Boy and the shrimp were fried to order so it had a thin and shattering batter, the sauce added a zesty and creamy tang, and I wont fault them on this because it's super chilly in the winter but the bread was cold. But I imagine it would be nice soft if we had come earlier in the day. read more

This is straight outta Lafayette, Louisiana and straight into your soul. One bite and you're transported to a place where brown sugar flows like rivers, bourbon is a love language, and butter is its own food group. It's so good it makes you want to slap yo mama, then hand her a spoon so she understands why. Let's talk texture: soft but not soggy, rich but not cloying. It walks the fine line between indulgence and total moral collapse. This isn't just dessert--it's a spiritual awakening wrapped in caramel. I came in for a snack. I left questioning every life choice that didn't involve eating more Puddin'. The staff is as warm as the dessert, and the portion size is generous enough to make you weep with joy and shame. Do yourself a favor. Go. Order the bread pudding. Then sit somewhere quietly and reflect on how blessed your taste buds now are. This is not just the best pudding in DC. It might be the best in the known universe. read more

Was visiting Washington DC and a friend of mine recommended this spot, and it didn't disappoint at all. Got the Gumbo and the bread pudding and both were chefs kiss. Met the owner and she was a lovely lady. Vibes and atmosphere was great. read more

Puddin' - Gumbo - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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The food was amazing hands down! The Shrimp Étouffée had plenty of shrimp. The service was amazing, they allowed my mother to sample the dishes which led to her buying the Étouffée, Gumbo and Bread Puddin' read more

Both the gumbo and bread pudding are amazing! I had to go back to get another gumbo. The staff is so friendly and helpful, I'll definitely go back. read more

Puddin' - Shrimp Gumbo and Bread Puddin. - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The food here is absolutely AMAZING! I mean flavors on 1000! It's always hot and ready! They fry the shrimp to order which makes them fresh and delicious! I'm literally obsessed with this place! The staff is always SO nice! Everyone I've ever encountered had been nothing but nice and hospitable! The keep a good vibe flowing! The bread budding is near perfect and the étouffée with the fried shrimp is heaven sent! I'm addicted to the gumbo as well! It's seasoned exactly how I like. EVERYTHING is seasoned and portioned to make sure you're fulfilled! I am ALWAYS referring clients, guests, friends, family members, and strangers (when they ask). It's the perfect lunch/dinner spot! If you haven't tried it yet, you MUST!!! You'll probably see me there LOL! read more

I went here to grab a quick bite to eat, and this place did not disappoint. This place is located inside of Union Market, towards the back of the market on the right side. In the food hall there is seating, indoor and outdoor. I chose to sit outside because the weather was very nice. The service was fast, the staff was friendly, and the food was absolutely delicious. I ordered the shrimp and grits and the lemon iced tea. The shrimp came in a tomato gravy over some of the creamiest grits I have ever had. I told him he came out to about 19 bucks. The shrimp were also very large and there were plenty of them. Definitely stop by, I highly recommend this place. read more

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We had no idea what we were looking for when we came to Union Market, but we stumbled across Puddin' and decided to try their southern cuisine. We were so pleased with this find - they more than deliver with their food. Their Shrimp Po'boy was incredible - packed with shrimp and flavor. The Gumbo had just the right amount of spice with plenty of sausage. And the red beans and rice brought flair to a simple dish. They had some tables outside their shop to eat at, but I'd imagine it gets busy so it might get difficult to find a place to eat. Prices were decent for the quality of food. Staff were efficient with making the dishes. A definite stop when at Union Market. read more

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Puddin' is what made me fall in love with Union Market! The first time I was wandering around the stalls, one of the employees kindly offered me samples of red beans and rice and bread pudding and I knew I had to have more. I've tried the shrimp and grits (both steamed and fried shrimp), red beans and rice, and the bread pudding and all are delicious and worth trying! This is definitely comfort food and the kind where you want to take a nap after trying but it's so worth it, especially if you're looking for some southern food. Although Union Market can be very busy, i've found that puddin doesn't typically have a long line and you get the food relatively quick. Service is great! read more

The food was great and delicious. I would definitely recommend going here. Their Shrimp Gumbo was the bomb!

***This review is only based on Puddin's bread pudding.*** This gem is located in Union Market (a great place for people to visit/frequent who want to grab dinner together but can't agree on food) in DC. Puddin is a black owned restaurant who has definitely perfected (absolutely no exaggeration) their Brown Butter Bourbon Bread Puddin'. When you arrive to Puddin', they ask you if you want to sample anything, which is pretty great. We sampled the bread pudding and quickly fell in love. Their bread pudding was lacking no spice or no missed ingredient. It was moist, warm and everything a bread pudding lover could ever want. The ice cream was literally the cherry on top. This will definetly be my go to bread puddin spot. I will be back ;). read more

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Very warm and welcoming. Offered samples to help decide what I wanted which was awesome. The food was good and full of flavor. Can't wait to try some of the other food. Nice area and nearby seating. read more

Puddin' - Bag with Shrimp 'n Grits and Brown Butter Bourbon Bread Puddin' inside. - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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New Orleanian here. Born and raised. I don't rave about anything. Just being honest. But let me just sayyyy. Girl. Puddin' is where it's ATTTT. Only tried the gumbo and the bread pudding but man oh man was it . Give them a whole restaurant! So happy I found them. I will be back to try the other menu options. Plus, they were super nice and offered to let us try whatever we wanted before we bought it. No need. The product is perfect! Thank you, Puddin' for the little slice of home! read more

Spicey Etouffee.... and it was very good ! Staff (all) served us up with smiles. Thank You. read more

All three delicacies were very good but the gumbo by far was the best. Pudding has teally good customer service too read more

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This is a constant rotation of food spots in DC. One of the only places I can say is worth it to drive to from Arlington (even did it in the snow). I wish they would open a restaurant. I'm from the south (Alabama) and this is true southern comfort food. The red beans and rice is my favorite although all items are good. The bread pudding is delectable!!! read more

This place is where I go when I don't wanna be disappointed! All the food here is GREAT. I didn't say good I said GREAT! You get what you ask for. And I love the bread pudding and ice cream! Yeah you can't go wrong. Then you know union market has all the parking you need but you know it can get lit. I love it here and eat here at least once a week. I wish they had a rewards program because I swipe there too often to not have a free sweet tea or something by now! They are also on door dash :) you know union is the cutest place too! read more

Puddin' - A mixture of union market - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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They literally have the best brown butter bourbon bread pudding. It's smooth, strong and creamy. I've not been able to find anything that comes close to Puddin's. It is a bit pricy, but worth the it! read more

WOW! My Supervisor went to Puddin' for lunch today and she demanded that I try the Brown Butter Bourbon Bread Pudding she brought back. Lawd! Amazing! The flavor was UNBELIEVABLY tasty! I'm glad I only had a portion of it because I would've eaten the entire cup! LOL. I will DEFINITELY be making a pit stop over there sometime very soon to get my own! read more

This IMMEDIATELY became my go-to spot to grab lunch or dinner when I'm in Union Market. I try to eat at the other spots but their food is so delicious! My fave combo: shrimp po-boy;small bread pudding. Ice cream on the side. You cannot go wrong. Staff are wonderful as well - kind and helpful. I don't have any photos because I always devour it read more

Delicious. I ordered shrimp grits and it really hit the spot. Exactly what I was looking for. 10/10 would return and recommend.

Customer service was awesome! Very fast and hot! The shrimp po boy was ! Just shy of 5 stars because the bread puddin wasn't so good. The bread or the edges of the bread tasted burnt. The ice cream save it a bit but that burnt taste definitely killed it for me! Overall good place! read more

I don't have a lot of experience with authentic gumbo, but if this place makes it right then I want to try all of it. This places gumbo is awesome, highly recommend, and as can be seen from the previous reviews most agree. I also sampled one of the sea food stews and was left with sadness as that one tasted really good too but I only had room in my stomach for one selection. I also tried the pudding and really enjoyed the flavor. It is really sweet so I would only eat it as a treat to myself. The pudding has a bourbon flavor to it which I liked but others may want to try it with a friend before investing in it. That being said great service and great tasting food, I definitely will be back. read more

Puddin' - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

This past weekend I tried Puddin' through Uber Eats. I ask Chat to help me with my selections and almost everything was rated as spectacular. I ordered close to closing and the shrimp n grits, slaw and fried shrimp individually and it arrived as a cold blob. I was so surprised. I could tell the ingredients were good but it was obvious close to closing is not the time to place an order. It was as if they took it out of the fridge and packed my order. I may or may not give them a second chance. I probably should but close to closing shouldn't mean throw cold food in a bag without love and tender loving care for the price. read more

I have been living in dc for over 15 years and I am so upset I didn't find out about this place much sooner . The food is too die for . I mean real authentic soul food that's exactly what this place is . I had the shrimp Etouffe 100000/10 . I came back again 2 days latter ( I kid you not ) and I tried the famous banana bread and omg. It became my new addiction!! My friend tried the red beans and rice it was delicious . The customer service was amazing and the food was impeccable I'll be back for sure read more

I first tried this place from their food truck and was impressed by their food. The shrimp and grits is my go to. It's very indulgent meal but so good! The poboys are also good. I've had both shrimp and oyster with shrimp being my favorite. read more

I ordered the bread pudding with vanilla ice cream and it was INCREDIBLE!! I was in DC for only two days but I made sure to visit Puddin' each day! That's how enamoured I am with their bread pudding!! What works: -- so sweet!! A hint of salt!! Deep buttery flavour!! If money was no object, I'd fly the five hours it takes to get to DC every month just so I could grab a cup of this stuff -- the bread pudding is so soft without being soggy or mushy. My favourite was the caramelised and slightly chewy bits of bread that you could tell were roasting at the bottom of the pan. Heaven on earth -- the vanilla ice cream!! So thick!! So creamy!! I was surprised by how high quality it was considering that the bread pudding is the star! -- great portion!! I split the small with a friend and it was a perfect amount of us both! What didn't work: -- my only complaint is that there isn't a Puddin' location in California! I guarantee I'd stop by at least once a day for a cup of this stuff. Overall: If you go to DC and don't try this bread pudding, there will always be a small part of your soul that feels a little empty. Don't do that to yourself. Get the bread pudding and thank me later read more

Puddin' - Close up of heaven on earth - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I recommend the red beans and rice, amazing and full of flavor. Etouffee with the shrimp was sadly horrific...the smell and taste was unbearable. read more

Puddin' - Red beans and rice was one of the best I've ever had! So flavorful. - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Service at Puddin is amazing. They offer samples because no refunds so don't be ashamed to ask to ensure you like the food. I tried a sample of the gumbo which is nice and spicy just has too much veggies in it. The shrimp and grits were tasty as well. They offer shrimp sautéed and fried would definitely try them next time. The bread pudding from Puddin is the only one i like that i have tried. I don't know if it's because of the flavor or fluffinesses but would recommend. read more

Puddin' - Puddin's Famous Brown Butter Bourbon Bread Puddin' - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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This is not the first time this has happened to me when ordering bread pudding from Puddin They should be ashamed giving this to someone. DRY is an understatement and the burnt pieces totally destroyed the flavor. I was so disappointed when I got home and it's my fault that I didn't check it before I left because this same thing happened to me before. They used to be so consistent but it looks like those days are over ! read more

Puddin' - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Warning: The bread pudding might be addictive! I'm pretty sure they sprinkle some make-them-come-back-for-more powder on it. I work out. I eat healthy. I have strong will power but it was all useless against the power of the puddin'! Don't say I didn't tell you! The bread melts in your mouth. The combination of the butter, sugar, bourbon...thank you Jesus!! Grace was the name of the woman who served me and she fit every bit of her name. Her smile was so angelic and welcoming, I felt like I was walking into her home for a home cooked meal. She was even sweeter than the bread pudding. Grace let me taste a sample of the gumbo, she shouldn't have done that because they clearly add the make-you-come-back-for-more powder to all their foods! Next thing you know I'm buying an unintentional bowl of gumbo! Sigh! Help my waistline Jesus!! The mix of spices and flavor just danced in my mouth and had a party. DEE- LISH-OUS!! I am getting excited just writing about it! There are no pork products in the gumbo if that matters to you. Definitely give this place a try. Just wear loose pants. And tip Grace generously. read more

This place is so so good! Located on the inner loop opposite the main entrance of Union market, Puddin' provides quick service of local Cajun tastes. Reminiscent of New Orleans in flavor but does not hold back in the authenticity. I tried the gumbo, which was rich in flavor and ingredients -it is a tad bit spicy but not overwhelmingly so, still try it. The bread pudding is where it's at! So so good and served warm, tastes so fresh and leaves you wanting more. Do yourself a favor and stop by! read more

Puddin' - Gumbo - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Go get some yummy food. We had gumbo and bread pudding. So delish. We sampled shrimp and grits and we'll definitely be back for that. Wow really good food and excellent service. read more

Puddin' - Yum. Gumbo. Bread Puddin - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

If I could describe this meal experience in one word, it would be bussin'. There's not much Cajun southern food where I'm from, so I love how they gave me samples! I eventually got the Shrimp Etouffee. It came with 5 shrimp and had a good ratio of meat sauce to rice. You can also get the meat sauce over grits if you like. The flavor was good, not too oily, and definitely fulfilling. The price is also pretty decent for the portion. If you're in Union Market, you have to try! read more

Puddin' - Shrimp Étouffée over Rice - Comfort Food Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia