D.C.’s Dining Elite: The Newest Michelin-Starred Restaurants You Need to Try

In December 2024, the Michelin Guide unveiled its latest selections for Washington, D.C., highlighting the city's dynamic and evolving culinary landscape. Two establishments, Mita and Omakase at Barracks Row, were honored with their first Michelin stars, reflecting the city's diverse gastronomic scene.

Mita

Located in the vibrant Shaw neighborhood, Mita offers a plant-based Latin American dining experience that has captivated both critics and diners alike. The restaurant is the brainchild of chefs Miguel Guerra and Tatiana Mora, who have crafted a menu that celebrates the rich flavors of Latin America through innovative, vegetable-focused dishes.

• Address: 804 V Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20001

• Phone: (202) 555-0101

• Website: www.mitadc.com

Upon entering Mita, guests are greeted by a minimalist yet warm interior. Natural wood furnishings complement neutral-toned walls, creating an atmosphere that is both modern and inviting. Soft ambient lighting enhances the dining experience, making it intimate without being overly formal. The open kitchen design allows diners to observe the meticulous preparation of each dish, fostering a connection between the culinary team and their guests.

The menu at Mita is a testament to the chefs' commitment to sustainability and creativity. Standout dishes include the halibut with mole, where the delicate flavor of the fish is elevated by a rich, complex mole sauce. Another highlight is the papaya nixtamal, a dessert that features papaya cooked in piloncillo and Mexican vanilla, served over coconut cream and finished with fennel pollen and wildflower honey. This dish exemplifies the restaurant's ability to transform simple ingredients into a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Photos: Mita DC

Mita's recognition by the Michelin Guide is particularly noteworthy as Chef Miguel Guerra is celebrated as the youngest Venezuelan chef to receive a Michelin star, and Chef Tatiana Mora is the first Venezuelan female chef to earn this honor. Their combined expertise and passion have positioned Mita as a trailblazer in the plant-based culinary scene.

Omakase at Barracks Row

Situated in the historic Capitol Hill area, Omakase at Barracks Row offers an exclusive Japanese dining experience centered around the traditional omakase style. Under the guidance of Chef Yi "Ricky" Wang, who honed his skills under the tutelage of renowned sushi master Daisuke Nakazawa, the restaurant presents a meticulously curated 21-course tasting menu that showcases the finest in sushi craftsmanship.

• Address: 522 8th Street SE, Washington, D.C., 20003

• Phone: (202) 555-0202

• Website: www.omakasedc.com

The intimate setting of Omakase at Barracks Row features a 14-seat sushi bar, allowing for personalized interaction between the chef and each guest. The décor is understated, with clean lines and subtle Japanese aesthetics that focus attention on the culinary journey. Natural elements such as bamboo accents and soft lighting create a serene environment, enhancing the overall dining experience.

The 21-course menu is a dynamic progression of seasonal offerings, each piece of sushi crafted with precision and presented immediately to ensure optimal flavor and freshness. Chef Wang's dedication to sourcing the highest quality ingredients is evident in every bite, from the buttery richness of the otoro to the delicate sweetness of uni. The menu evolves regularly, reflecting both the seasons and the chef's creative inspirations.

Photos: Omakase DC

Earning a Michelin star within a year of opening is a testament to the exceptional quality and dedication found at Omakase at Barracks Row. The restaurant has quickly become a destination for sushi aficionados seeking an authentic and memorable omakase experience in the heart of Washington, D.C.

Sustainability Recognition: Oyster Oyster

In addition to the new Michelin stars awarded, Oyster Oyster, located in the Shaw neighborhood, received a prestigious Michelin Green Star for its commitment to sustainable practices. This accolade highlights restaurants that are at the forefront of sustainable gastronomy, honoring their efforts in environmental responsibility.

• Address: 1440 8th Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20001

• Phone: (202) 555-0303

• Website: www.oysteroysterdc.com

Oyster Oyster's interior reflects its eco-conscious philosophy, featuring reclaimed wood tables, recycled materials, and abundant greenery that brings a touch of nature indoors. The ambiance is both rustic and contemporary, providing a comfortable setting that aligns with the restaurant's sustainable ethos.

The menu is predominantly plant-based, with a focus on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Dishes are crafted to highlight the natural flavors of the produce, often incorporating foraged elements and sustainably harvested seafood. The beverage program complements this approach, offering natural wines and house-made non-alcoholic options that emphasize regional ingredients.

Oyster Oyster's dedication to sustainability extends beyond the plate. The restaurant implements comprehensive waste reduction strategies, including composting and minimal use of single-use plastics. Their efforts to engage with local farmers and purveyors further reinforce their commitment to environmental stewardship, making them a leader in the sustainable dining movement.

Notable Changes in the Michelin Landscape

The 2024 Michelin Guide also noted some significant changes among Washington, D.C.'s esteemed dining establishments. Pineapple & Pearls, previously holding two stars, was adjusted to one star. This contemporary restaurant, known for its inventive tasting menus, continues to offer a unique dining experience that blends creativity with technical prowess.

• Address: 715 8th Street SE, Washington, D.C., 20003

• Phone: (202) 555-0404

• Website: www.pineappleandpearls.com

  
  

Despite the change in rating, Pineapple & Pearls remains a standout in D.C.’s fine dining scene. Led by Chef Aaron Silverman, the restaurant maintains its commitment to delivering an imaginative and immersive dining experience. The tasting menu is a carefully choreographed journey that combines unexpected flavor pairings with avant-garde presentation techniques. Dishes such as the lobster with miso butter and the duck consommé infused with smoked tea continue to impress, demonstrating the kitchen’s finesse and innovation.

The shift in Michelin rating reflects the guide’s evolving criteria and the heightened competition within Washington, D.C.’s culinary landscape. While losing a star can be a moment of reflection, it also presents an opportunity for reinvention, and Pineapple & Pearls remains a must-visit for gastronomes seeking a refined and exciting dining adventure.

A City on the Rise

Washington, D.C.'s culinary scene has seen remarkable growth in recent years, cementing its reputation as a dining destination that rivals traditional food capitals. The 2024 Michelin Guide underscores the city’s dynamic evolution, recognizing both long-established institutions and bold newcomers pushing the boundaries of gastronomy.

Mita and Omakase at Barracks Row’s new Michelin stars highlight the diversity of D.C.’s fine dining offerings, from plant-based Latin American cuisine to exquisitely crafted Japanese omakase. Meanwhile, Oyster Oyster’s Green Star signals an increasing emphasis on sustainability in the industry, encouraging other establishments to adopt environmentally conscious practices.

As the city continues to attract top-tier culinary talent, the Michelin Guide’s selections offer a glimpse into the future of D.C. dining—one that is vibrant, inclusive, and ever-evolving. Whether it’s the artistry of sushi, the depth of Latin American flavors, or the conscientious approach to sustainability, Washington, D.C. is proving itself to be a formidable force in the global food scene.

Header Photo Credit: www.omakasedc.com