La Plaza

Image: Inky. Last Updated: October 2025 Overview: The team behind the excellent Chicatana previously worked at Boqueria.  When they decided to move the Mexican spot down a couple doors, the Spanish-centric La Plaza became the backfill.  When Chicatana got hit by a fire, they added some Mexican items to La Plaza’s menu – presumably pending […]

Read More

Tamashaa

Image: Let them whip you up something. Last Updated: October 2025 Overview: Tamashaa jumped onto our shortlist for underrated/under-the-radar spots.  Despite its location smackdab in the middle of Columbia Heights, it has yet to get the buzz it deserves.  They do a fun version of Indian in a nice open space with attentive service.  It […]

Read More

KooKoo

Image: Take out from above. Last Updated: November 2024 Overview: KooKoo checks a few boxes.  It is a sunny spot to hang out in a languid manner in Columbia Heights.  It is one of the few places in D.C. proper doing Persian cuisine, and it is a good take-out option that is on the healthy […]

Read More

Chicatana

Image: Plate o’ Tacos. Last Updated: July 2025 NOTE: Chicatana suffered a fire, and have relocated to 1400 Meridian Pl., NW. They have a Go Fund Me for rebuilding and staff. Overview: Come for the wide selection of tequilla and mezcal, stay for the better than you might expect food.  The menu is anchored by […]

Read More

Atxondo

Image: Spread of good stuff. Last Updated: August 2023 Overview: Atxondo is tucked away on an inconspicuous stretch of 14th Street on the south side of 16th Street Heights.  The space is bright, simple, and friendly to those that may wander in.  The food comes from Rufino Bautista, who previously worked the kitchens at Estadio […]

Read More

Mezcalero

Image: Ceviche Last Updated: April 2023 Overview: A foundational piece of the excellent mini-empire of Mexican spots from Jessica and Alfredo Solis, Mezcalero now has its original location in Columbia Heights and a bright corner in La Cosecha’s main hall.  The menu overlaps with the more seafood-oriented spots Anafre and Mariscos 1133, but it is […]

Read More

Pho Viet

Image: Beef and Broth. Last Updated: March 2023 Overview: The accumulated knick-knacks may obscure entrance, but keep looking until you find it.  Pho Viet sits on the north side of Columbia Heights and, as the name indicates, serves pho in a finely-tuned broth that sings.  The bowls can be ordered with various meats on top […]

Read More

Mi Cuba Café

Image: Vaca Frita, Arroz Congri, Tostones. Last Updated: September 2024 Overview: [NOTE: They closed in summer 2024] Mi Cuba punches above its weight, serving classic Cuban dishes that are hearty and heart-warming.  Come for the Cubano sandwich, stay for the plates of lechon asado or beef.  The level of care is underlined in the sides […]

Read More