Image: Queso!

Last Updated: December 2022

Current Status: Now open for sit-down service.  They continue to do take-out and delivery.  They opened a large, new spot on 14th in the old Matchbox space, and a smaller scaled spot called Mi Casa north of Dupont.

Gift Cards – good for all KNEAD restaurants

Summary:

Cuisine: Latin American (Mexican)
Locations:
SW/Waterfront:
98 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024
Reservation: Opentable

14th Street:
1901 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Reservation: Opentable

Website: https://mividamexico.com/

Before Times Review:

First Visit: May 2019

On first impression, Mi Vida is a nicer, sleeker version of Lauriol Plaza.  It is a large, multi-story spot serving Mexican classics like tacos, enchiladas and carne asada.  Like Lauriol, it is conducive to hanging out and there are multiple plates to share that fit that inclination: ceviche, queso fundido, and guacamole.  There are differences.  Mi Vida’s food is at least one step up in sophistication and quality (probably two steps up) and price.  There are no gratis chips and warm salsa, but the guacamole is very good.  The views are also better at The Wharf.

While the food is hearty and tasty and more polished than one might expect, it sticks to its role.  Overseen by New York-based chef Roberto Santibañez of Fonda in NYC, it adds to the atmosphere rather than trying to compete with it.  The serving sizes are large, so if you have appetizers before entrees you will probably have leftovers.  The beef brisket enchilada with mole is loaded with meat and rich in sauce.  Tacos are satisfying but not anything mind-blowing.  The chicken is a giant half a bird.

The space is large with seating upstairs, downstairs, inside and outside. There are enjoyable variations on margaritas and a decent selection of beers from Mexico and elsewhere.  The relaxed atmosphere means there is no rush to push you out the door, but that can also mean there is no rush to serve.  If you are heading that direction or want a casual place to meet up, it is a good choice.

Rating: Worth Trying Out
Cuisine: Latin American (Mexican)
Neighborhood: SW/Waterfront
Address: 98 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024
Website: https://mividamexico.com/
Reservation: Opentable

Other Critics/Voices:

Washington Post: Tom gave it 2.5.

Washingtonian: Likes the Magarita

DonRockwell.com – in which a veteran poster says good things.

Zagat – It looks like they found their intended market.