Washington, D.C.’s culinary scene continues to shine, with the recent Michelin Guide announcement adding even more sparkle to the city’s gastronomic map. This year, two new restaurants have been awarded the coveted One Michelin Star – Mita and Omakase at Barracks Row – solidifying DC’s position as a top destination for food lovers. Adding to the accolades, Oyster Oyster has been recognized with a Michelin Green Star for its commitment to sustainable practices, alongside its existing One Star.
These new recognitions highlight the diversity and innovation present in Washington D.C.’s dining landscape. Mita offers a unique plant-based Latin American tasting menu, while Omakase at Barracks Row delivers an authentic and exquisite Japanese sushi experience. Let’s delve into these exciting new additions and revisit the full list of Michelin-starred establishments in DC, guiding you through the must-visit restaurants for an unforgettable culinary journey.
New Michelin Stars in Washington DC
Mita – One Michelin Star
(Cuisine: Vegetarian)
Mita, nestled in the vibrant Shaw neighborhood, presents a refreshing take on Latin American cuisine, entirely plant-based. This contemporary restaurant, led by Chefs Tatiana Mora and Miguel Guerra, invites diners to explore a tasting menu that is both creative and deeply flavorful. Influences from across Latin America, including Brazil, Bolivia, and Colombia, are evident in dishes bursting with originality. Expect a playful and texturally rich experience, starting with their signature arepas basket accompanied by tantalizing sauces like guasacaca, chili oil-infused cashew sour cream, and chontaduro butter. The menu continues to impress with inventive creations such as watermelon crudo with fermented carrot in a zesty cucumber leche de tigre, and a satisfying mushroom terrine wrapped in greens with layers of potato, delivering umami in every bite. Mita is not just vegetarian dining; it’s a culinary adventure that excites the palate and redefines plant-based cuisine.
Omakase at Barracks Row – One Michelin Star
(Cuisine: Japanese)
Omakase at Barracks Row offers an intimate and refined Japanese dining experience. Chef Yi “Ricky” Wang, a protégé of Chef Nakazawa, brings his expertise and passion for sushi to this unique counter-style restaurant. Located in an industrial-chic space, accessed via a set of metal stairs adorned with art inspired by traditional Japanese fish printing, Omakase at Barracks Row promises authenticity and artistry. Chef Wang’s omakase menu begins with delicate otsumami, perhaps featuring poached sweet shrimp in a smoked Maine uni sauce, before transitioning to the star of the show – nigiri. Each piece is meticulously crafted and showcases the finest ingredients, from Boston surf clam enhanced with kumquat kosho to hay-smoked Spanish mackerel from the Carolinas, perfectly balancing bold flavors. The meal concludes with a refreshing musk melon and Japanese strawberry dessert, leaving a lasting impression of culinary excellence.
Washington DC Michelin Star Restaurants – Full List
The Michelin Guide recognizes exceptional dining experiences across various categories. In Washington D.C., restaurants are awarded Stars for their culinary excellence and Green Stars for their commitment to sustainability. Here is the complete list of Michelin-starred restaurants in Washington D.C., celebrating the best of the city’s gastronomic offerings.
Three Michelin Star Restaurants
- The Inn at Little Washington (Cuisine: American, French) – Located just outside of DC, but recognized within the guide.
Two Michelin Star Restaurants
- Jônt (Cuisine: Contemporary)
- minibar (Cuisine: Contemporary)
One Michelin Star & Green Star Restaurants
- Oyster Oyster (Cuisine: Vegetarian)
One Michelin Star Restaurants
- Albi (Cuisine: Middle Eastern)
- Bresca (Cuisine: Contemporary)
- Causa (Cuisine: Peruvian)
- Elcielo D.C. (Cuisine: Colombian)
- Fiola (Cuisine: Italian)
- Gravitas (Cuisine: Contemporary)
- Imperfecto: The Chef’s Table (Cuisine: Latin American)
- Kinship (Cuisine: Contemporary)
- Little Pearl (Cuisine: Contemporary)
- Masseria (Cuisine: Italian)
- Métier (Cuisine: Contemporary)
- Pineapple and Pearls (Cuisine: Contemporary)
- Rania (Cuisine: Indian)
- Reverie (Cuisine: Contemporary)
- Rooster & Owl (Cuisine: Contemporary)
- Rose’s Luxury (Cuisine: Contemporary)
- Sushi Nakazawa (Cuisine: Japanese)
- Tail Up Goat (Cuisine: Contemporary)
- The Dabney (Cuisine: American)
- Xiquet (Cuisine: Spanish)
Washington D.C.’s Michelin-starred restaurants offer a diverse and exceptional range of culinary experiences. From innovative plant-based Latin American cuisine to refined Japanese omakase and beyond, the city’s dining scene is a testament to culinary excellence and creativity. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, exploring the Washington Dc Michelin Guide is an essential journey for any discerning palate. These restaurants represent the pinnacle of dining in the nation’s capital, promising memorable meals and unparalleled gastronomic adventures.
