Springtime Sizzle: DC's Hottest New Restaurants and Must-Attend Culinary Events

Food Scene Washington D.C.

# DC's Culinary Renaissance: Spring 2025 Brings Fresh Flavors to the Capital

Washington D.C. is experiencing a remarkable culinary revival this spring, with established institutions being reimagined and innovative concepts taking root across the city.

The Occidental, one of D.C.'s longest-running restaurants, has reopened under the direction of renowned restaurateur Stephen Starr. This historic establishment now offers sleek finishes and white tablecloth service alongside a nostalgic Americana menu featuring classics like shrimp Louie and tableside roasted pheasant.

For adventurous diners, Sagrada on U Street presents a fascinating concept—an eight-course tasting menu centered around non-psychoactive mushrooms. This Mexican restaurant from Knead Hospitality delivers a playful culinary experience without the psychedelic effects.

The spring also welcomes Bird Song to Chevy Chase, where Thai chef Kitima Boonmala brings authentic dishes like khao soi and spicy boat noodles to the former Blue 44 space. Meanwhile, Old Town Alexandria gains Cooper Mill, a tavern housed in a 170-year-old waterfront warehouse serving pizzas and signature "zepps"—flatbread sandwiches created by restaurateur Noe Landini.

Even D.C.'s oldest eatery, Old Ebbitt Grill, is expanding with Ebbitt House in Reston—its first-ever spinoff featuring raw-bar fare and American classics with a contemporary twist.

For boundary-pushing cuisine, Brightwood Park's Poplar offers an intimate dining experience focused on foraged and locally farmed ingredients prepared in a wood-burning oven. Open only Friday and Saturday nights, chef/forager Iulian Fortu collaborates with the Anxo Cider team to create weekly changing menus.

Beyond restaurants, D.C.'s spring calendar brims with culinary events. The DC Chocolate Festival (April 25-26) brings over 30 chocolate vendors to the French Embassy for tastings and workshops. Wine enthusiasts can attend DC Wine Fest at Union Market on April 26, featuring pours from District Winery and other local producers.

May brings Passport DC, a month-long celebration including the International City Food Festival (May 2-3) and the Fiesta Asia fair (May 17), showcasing international street food. Later in summer, the admission-free Around the World Cultural Food Festival returns to Alexandria's Oronoco Bay Park on August 23, offering a diverse selection of global cuisines alongside cultural performances.

With its blend of historic institutions, innovative concepts, and multicultural influences, Washington D.C.'s dining scene reflects both the capital's storied past and its dynamic future..


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