Image: Skewered
Last Updated: January 2025
Overview:
The name gives it away. Bar Japonais is centered around the big bar in the middle of the space, but it is of relative maturity with people enjoying well-made cocktails, wine, sake, and beer. Like Estadio that occupied the space previously, the bar is a great place to hang out with a couple friends, start (or wrap up) a date night, or even dine solo. The “Japonais” part is the food. Like its sibling spot Bar Chinois the food here is surprisingly good.
They recruited two chefs with experience in Japanese cuisine to build out the opening menu. With a few twists thrown in, it is mostly recognizable dishes done well. A handful of basic sushi rolls, skewers, and dishes like okonomiyaki, the savory pork-shrimp-cabbage pancake topped with aioli and bonito flakes. Many of the dishes do well as sharable plates or bar snacks. Though we found the black cod entrée to be pretty good too.
The cocktails are French-y and the wine list is also exclusively French. A decent sake list matches the theme. It is hard not to miss Estadio. With minor tweaks (dropping some interior walls, enclosing the kitchin), the current spot reflects the essential layout of its predecessor and may feel like a familiar reminder. A good glass and warm plate may bring back a little of the magic too.
Other Guidance: Located at street level with a small step at entrance. GF and vegetarians can do well. No need to dress up, but it is a big bar so you may want to make a good impression.
Summary:
Cuisine: Japanese
Neighborhood: 14th Street
Address: 1520 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
Website: https://barjaponaisdc.com/
Reservations: Opentable
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