Image: Spread of good stuff.
Last Updated: August 2023
Overview:
Atxondo is tucked away on an inconspicuous stretch of 14th Street on the south side of 16th Street Heights. The space is bright, simple, and friendly to those that may wander in. The food comes from Rufino Bautista, who previously worked the kitchens at Estadio and Asia Nora. Now he has his own place. It continues, with a little less glam, the work of Estadio, serving up good takes on classic Spanish dishes.
That means a traditional Romesco to go with the grilled scallions, and a tortilla with the eggs cooked to golden exterior and a few dollops of aioli. We would put a plug in for the lamb meatballs served with mashed potatoes and a tomato sauce. In fact, there is a bit of overlap with an old-school Italian red-sauce joint in the way it is embedded in the neighborhood and the focus on dishes that might be called comfort food. It may not be fancy, but it delivers on taste and works. You can close out with a good take on Basque cheesecake.
The beer and wine list are limited. Cocktails are a little deeper in choices. There is patio seating out front with covering. Inside it is a classic storefront space that stretches back to include a bar. Come in and hang out, or take a night off cooking.
Bautista had been looking for a place to strike out on his own. Sadly, he took the keys in March 2020, but they opened and hunkered down. We are glad they held on.
Other Guidance: The restaurant is located at street level. The “tx” appears to be pronounced like a “ch” – A- Chon-do. Spanish cuisine does well by vegetables, so V and GF can do well.
Summary:
Cuisine: Spanish
Neighborhood: Petworth (16th St. Heights)
Address: 4724 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20011
Website: https://www.atxondo.com/
Reservations: On website, but can probably walk in.
Other Critics/Voices:
Washington Post: A chat poster mentioned it as a “brave” place that opened and they supported. Tom threw his weight behind Le Diplomate and Bammy’s as being similarly situated.
Washingtonian: No coverage yet
Petworth News: Profile