Qui Qui

Image: Pernil to go.

Last Updated: October 2021

Current Status:  Open Thursday through Sunday for sit-down, take-out and delivery. Proof of vaccination required to dine-in.

Overview: This cute little pop-up above The Passenger in Shaw serves Puerto Rican food and other dishes from the region.  The menu focuses on classics.  The seasoning on the chicken and the crispy bites of grouper fried in bread crumbs are addictive.  Other dishes that get attention include the Pernil (pork shoulder) and the plantain layered dish of Pastelón that has beef and cheese.  Beer and island-influenced cocktails are available.

There is a small bar and a few tables in the dining room.  You can also order and eat downstairs in The Passenger.  The operation started as a food truck and catering business before doing a few pop-ups around town.  Amazingly, it opened in the pandemic and has a chance of continuing its run by converting from a pop-up to a long-term location.

Summary:

Cuisine: Caribbean
Neighborhood: Shaw
Address: 1539 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Website: https://www.quiquidc.com/
Reservations: Tock

Other Critics/Voices:

Washington Post: Adele Chapin put it on a list of pop-ups to try.

Washingtonian: No coverage yet.

DonRockwell.com – no thread yet

Washington City Paper:  Before departing for Brussels, Jessica van Dop DeJesus did this profile of Chef/Owner Ismael Mendez and the path to opening.  Also, be sure to check out her You Tube page and help her monetize the magic.