Washington, D.C.’s vibrant culinary landscape continues to gain national and international recognition, highlighted by the recent Michelin Guide announcement. This year’s selection celebrates the addition of two outstanding restaurants to the prestigious One Star category – Mita and Omakase at Barracks Row – and honors Oyster Oyster with a new Green Star for its commitment to sustainable gastronomy. These accolades further solidify Washington D.C.’s position as a premier dining destination, attracting food enthusiasts eager to explore diverse and innovative culinary experiences.
The newly awarded One Stars, Mita and Omakase at Barracks Row, represent the breadth and depth of talent within the D.C. restaurant scene. Mita, spearheaded by Chefs Tatiana Mora and Miguel Guerra, offers a unique plant-based Latin American tasting menu. Drawing inspiration from across Latin America, from Brazil to Bolivia, Mita’s cuisine is a celebration of inventive textures and bold flavors, showcasing the versatility and richness of vegetarian gastronomy.
Omakase at Barracks Row, in contrast, provides an authentic and intimate omakase experience. Chef Yi “Ricky” Wang’s expertise in Japanese cuisine shines through in each meticulously crafted piece of sushi, featuring high-quality Japanese imports and seasonal ingredients. This addition underscores the growing appreciation for refined Japanese dining experiences within Washington D.C.
Below is a closer look at the newly starred restaurants, alongside the existing Michelin-recognized establishments that contribute to the city’s dynamic food culture.
New Michelin Stars in DC
Mita – One Star
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Mita distinguishes itself with its entirely plant-based Latin American tasting menu, a concept that is both innovative and deeply rooted in culinary tradition. Located in the Shaw neighborhood, the restaurant’s contemporary setting provides the perfect backdrop for Chefs Tatiana Mora and Miguel Guerra’s creative culinary expressions. Guests can choose between short and long tasting menus, both promising a journey through Latin American flavors reimagined with plant-based ingredients. The arepas, served with an array of flavorful sauces like guasacaca, cashew sour cream with chili oil, and chontaduro butter, are a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to texture and taste. Dishes like the watermelon crudo with fermented carrot in a cucumber leche de tigre sauce exemplify the kitchen’s inventive and daring approach to vegetarian cuisine. The mushroom terrine, wrapped in greens and layered with potato, delivers a satisfying umami richness that lingers with every bite.
Omakase at Barracks Row – One Star
Cuisine: Japanese
Omakase at Barracks Row offers an exclusive omakase experience helmed by Chef Yi “Ricky” Wang. Chef Wang, whose background includes training under renowned Chef Nakazawa and successful pop-up ventures, has established a refined Japanese dining destination in an industrial-chic space. The restaurant’s ambiance is enhanced by unique art, including paintings inspired by the traditional Japanese practice of fishermen depicting their catch using ink on rice paper. Diners might even receive a similar artistic memento as part of their dining experience. Chef Wang’s omakase menu begins with exquisite otsumami, such as poached sweet shrimp in a smoked Maine uni sauce, before progressing to a selection of masterful nigiri. Highlights include the Boston surf clam with kumquat kosho and the hay-smoked Spanish mackerel from the Carolinas, showcasing a balance of bold and nuanced flavors. The meal concludes with a refreshing musk melon and Japanese strawberry dessert.
Oyster Oyster – One Star and Green Star
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Oyster Oyster continues to hold its One Star distinction and has now been awarded a Michelin Green Star, recognizing its dedication to sustainable practices. This vegetarian restaurant champions environmental responsibility alongside culinary excellence, making it a standout in Washington D.C.’s dining scene.
Michelin Star Restaurants in Washington D.C.
Washington D.C. boasts a diverse array of Michelin-starred restaurants across various categories, reflecting the city’s rich culinary tapestry.
Three Stars
- The Inn at Little Washington (American, French)
Two Stars
- Jônt (Contemporary)
- minibar (Contemporary)
One Star
- Albi (Middle Eastern)
- Bresca (Contemporary)
- Causa (Peruvian)
- Elcielo D.C. (Colombian)
- Fiola (Italian)
- Gravitas (Contemporary)
- Imperfecto: The Chef’s Table (Latin American)
- Kinship (Contemporary)
- Little Pearl (Contemporary)
- Masseria (Italian)
- Métier (Contemporary)
- Pineapple and Pearls (Contemporary)
- Rania (Indian)
- Reverie (Contemporary)
- Rooster & Owl (Contemporary)
- Rose’s Luxury (Contemporary)
- Sushi Nakazawa (Japanese)
- Tail Up Goat (Contemporary)
- The Dabney (American)
- Xiquet (Spanish)
This impressive list of Michelin-starred restaurants showcases Washington D.C.’s evolution into a significant gastronomic hub. From innovative vegetarian tasting menus to refined omakase experiences and sustainable dining initiatives, the Michelin Guide’s recognition highlights the diversity and high caliber of culinary talent in the nation’s capital. Food lovers in and visiting Washington D.C. are presented with an exceptional range of dining options, each promising a memorable and Michelin-worthy experience.
