June 2025: A Trio of Must-Visit New Restaurants in Washington, D.C.

As the capital buzzes with warm-weather energy, three standout additions are raising the bar in June 2025. From spice-laden small plates to rooftop cocktails and refined tasting menus, these newcomers promise big flavors and memorable dining moments.

1. Karravaan – Spice Road Revelry in Union Market 🧭

Forbidden Duck with scallops and Persian Garden cocktail.  Birch Thomas/Karravaan

Highlights:

• Chef Sanjay Mandhaiya (of Pappe) invites diners on a journey through Persia, Portugal, India, Turkey, and Tibet.

• Communal plates kick off with complimentary naan and Persian flatbread, moving on to lamb-studded tagines, dumplings, and hearty rice dishes.

• The bar pours creative cocktails—spiced vodka martinis loaded with baharat vermouth and saffron—and the lively happy hour runs daily.

• Located at 325 Morse Street NE, ideal for a casual group dinner or celebratory outing.

Why It Matters: Karravaan revives the spirit of the ancient spice routes in a warm, communal setting—perfect for shared exploration and flavor discovery.

Website: www.karravaan.com

2. Marcus DC – Celebrity Chef Marcus Samuelsson’s NoMa Revival

Website: https://marcusdc.com/marcus-dc

Highlights:

• World-renowned Marcus Samuelsson teams up with Chef Anthony Jones and Pastry Chef Rachel Sherriffe to craft a globally inspired menu.

• Signature dishes include dry-aged proteins, a raw bar, and standouts like blue crab rice with pickled okra, spiced cauliflower, and mumbo-sauce roasted chicken.

• The rooftop lounge Sly pairs gourmet casual fare—think shrimp cocktails and burgers—with skyline views.

• En­trées range from $26–$68, promising both accessible comfort and elevated dining.

• Address: 222 M St. NE.

Why It Matters: This marks Samuelsson’s homecoming to D.C.—a refined, soulful return that reflects his Swedish-Ethiopian roots intertwined with seafood-forward innovation.

3. Tari Trattoria – Amalfi Coast Elegance at Union Market

Website: www.tari-trattoriadc.com

Highlights:

• Brought to D.C. by Francesco Amodeo (of Don Ciccio & Figli), celebrating his Amalfi Coast upbringing.

• Showcases in-house dry-aged seasonal fish—like John Dory and sailfish—served in dishes such as the aromatic oro rosso (seven-fish calamarata stew).

• Also features rabbit confit, slow-cooked Genovese sauce, and a striking eggplant-chocolate dessert from Minori recipes.

• Cocktail menu spotlights Negronis, spritzes, and Amodeo’s signature spirits.

• Priced between $22–$45, it offers elevated coastal dining with Italian warmth.

• Located at 300 Morse Street NE

Why It Matters: Tari brings craftsmanship and heritage to the fore—showcasing rare fish preparations and deeply rooted regional cuisine in a market setting.

Bonus Spotlight: Abebech – Ethiopian & Italian Fusion in Brightwood

• Abebech serves up injera platters, Italian pastas, and breakfast in an inviting neighborhood space.

  Known for its vibrant veggie platters and standout lasagna—a creative spin in Ethiopian-American fusion.

• Located at 5320 Georgia Ave., NW

🗓️ Where They Fit on the D.C. Dining Map

Restaurant	Cuisine	Neighborhood	Vibe
Karravaan	Global Spice Route	Union Market NE	Lively, communal plates & cocktails
Marcus DC	Global-American	NoMa	Elevated dining + rooftop bar
Tari Trattoria	Coastal Italian	Union Market NE	Artisanal seafood, heritage Italian
Abebech	Ethiopian-Italian Fusion	Brightwood Park	Casual, cross-continental comfort

🔑 Pro Tips Before You Go

• Reservations: Highly recommended for all three—use Resy (Karravaan, Tari, Sly, Marcus DC) or check OpenTable.

• Share the experience: Each of these spots is designed around communal dining—order family-style!

• Perfect timing: Try Karravaan’s daily happy hour, grab an early evening seat at Sly, or enjoy Tari’s coastal breeze midday.

• Explore nearby: Pair dinner at Union Market with strolls through the bustling indoor market and stand-up artisan markets.