Image: Comforting with drama.
Last Updated: February 2026
Overview:
On the list of hidden gems, Onggi may be the least likely nominee. It is a brightly lit spot just a couple blocks from Dupont on a pretty busy street. Sometimes things are hidden in plain sight. It is just one key influencer away from being a thing. We are not sufficiently influential, but we are happy to give them a plug.
The cuisine could be called modern Korean, which is not to say that it doesn’t reference tradition. The website explains that the menu “is rooted in the noble dining traditions of the Joseon dynasty, the last and longest-lived imperial dynasty (1392–1910) of Korea.” A la carte options are plentiful, but the research and intention come in the tasting menu based on Hanjeongsik, which Onggi spreads out over several courses rather than a single presentation. While it tracks a conventional pattern of small bites leading to a fish, then meat, and ending in sweets, the headings suggest other thoughts are also at play. It starts with “The Harmony of Healing” and continues through “Beauty in Restraint” to “Earth, Sea, & Togetherness.” Some courses are multiple elements arrayed for bites like the opening. Others, are more single-plate in nature.
The dishes mix traditional, unfussy comfort food like galbi of beef short ribs with the intricate white pear kimchi formed into a rose. The jeon course comes with three different colored thin pancakes to represent the three main provinces of Korea that are encircled with seven vegetable choices as filling. A scallop special one night had a depth of flavor in the sauce from Swiss cheese incorporated with the butter and seaweed. Chef Kim may have spent time in construction, but, if you pardon the pun, he is still building and incorporating materials.
Though it retained the layout of prior restaurants to occupy this space, many elements of care are on display. The long bar showcases a thoughtful cocktail program. One set of banquettes are illuminated through plexiglass by heated Himalayan sea salt, the team here clearly tried to invoke a spa-like atmosphere of gentle light and warm tones.
The Onggi team come from non-traditional backgrounds. Tanya Kim worked in government. During time in Korea she delved deep into the history of the Joseon Dynasty and its culture of food. Chef Geewon Kim developed cooking skills during off hours while working in construction. To be honest, these are the kind of places we love to see pop up and thrive. Onggi feels personal. It feels special. Perhaps that is why its gem-like nature remains somewhat undiscovered. It is the experience more than the glitz that give it value.
Other Guidance: Washington Post guidance on accessibility: Steps in the restaurant prevent wheelchair use; no grab bars in tight restrooms. The menu is detailed in guidance for GF and has many vegetarian options, including a whole separate tasting menu. It has a neighborhood nice feel, so you can dress up a little if you want.
Summary:
Cuisine: Korean
Neighborhood: Dupont
Address: 2100 P St NW, Washington, DC 20037
Website: https://www.onggidc.com/
Reservations: Resy
Other Critics/Voices:
Washington Post: One of Tom’s final reviews was positive.
Washingtonian: Preview