Image: Classics on a counter.
Last Updated: June 2025
Overview:
Nestled in an inconspicuous spot south of Dupont is a gift to D.C. Peter Chang developed a myth as a great chef before he built his small empire of restaurants in the suburbs. Finally, in 2022, he opened in D.C. proper. Chang’s reputation was based on Szechuan-style dishes, but here he branches out to include other regional influences.
The menu covers a lot of ground. There are classics like sweet and sour chicken, battered fish, and Peking duck, a fried rice with shrimp that is lighter than most, and dumplings – pork is a key ingredient across the menu. That said, vegetarians can do well with several choices including a classic eggplant dish, cucumbers in garlicky green sauce and mapo tofu. Washingtonian flags the “balloon-like scallion pancake floating atop Singapore seafood curry.” It is a well-practiced team doing really good work. The dessert menu was constructed by another local legend, Pinchot Ong.
The beverage list is not long, but they do have a section for selected teas. The space is bright, with warm wood touches. It is large and can accommodate large groups with a long bar for walk-in overflow. Initially conceived as twinned concept of take-out and dine-in options, it has melded into one menu for both.
Other Guidance: Located at street level. GF and V can do well. Casual attire works fine.
Summary:
Cuisine: Chinese
Neighborhood: Dupont
Address: 1200 19th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
Website: https://changchangdc.com/
Reservations: Tock
Other Critics/Voices:
Washington Post: Tom’s first positive take.
Washingtonian: Preview. Top 100 2024; 2023. Dim Sum shoutout.
DonRockwell.com – plus a thread on the site’s history with Chang fame.
Michelin: Listed