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    Above Ground

    4.5 (96 reviews)
    Open 9:00 am - 8:00 pm

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    ABOVE GROUND ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Outdoor seating

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    Recommended Reviews - Above Ground

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    Kai M.

    After an excellent introduction through an event, I decided to return and purchase their famous fish & chips, a bottle of the NOLA Hurricane, and a cup of their Old Fashioned. The fish & chips were spectacular! The fish contained loads of flavor and was fried to perfection-perfect crispy to it! The chips were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Both were perfectly paired with tartar sauce and the most delicious mushy peas. NOLA Hurricane- nice and strong! Perfect for rooftop weather. The Old Fashioned was great! If you're an Old Fashioned lover, you'd appreciate it. Looks like I found a spot worth supporting many times again! Friendly staff! Great seating area, and it's fun! I had a great time visiting again.

    "THE GOVERNOR'S" Fish & Chips
    Mike L.

    I've been seeing the trending videos on Above Ground for a while. So I figured I'd give it a try. My son was actually the one interested in fish n chips. I was shocked because he tends to be a picky eater. We came to Union Market right around 5ish. Place wasn't too crowded on a Friday evening. I always love seeing the menu as it does offer a variety of British staples. My kids devoured almost all of his fish. There was a nice crisp to the filets and the chips were well seasoned. My only "complaint" is not having a cheaper option or smaller portion. It comes with a lot of food, which you hope so for paying $20 for fresh, quality, authentic food!

    Taylor L.

    Finally had the chance to try Above Ground in Union Market and was not disappointed! The food was made to order and I burned the roof of my mouth because I was starving and dying to try the meal! It was totally worth getting third-degree burns in my esophagus!! I tried the Governor's Fish 'n Chips and it was immaculate! The fish was a huge fillet and the batter was well seasoned and the fish was fresh! I dipped it in the tartar sauce which speaks volumes for me as I rarely use tartar sauce to dip my fried seafood in. Mushy peas were great too not a way I normally eat peas but I digged it! The chips were well seasoned as well. Def gotta come back and try their meat pies. The steak and ale pie is calling to me!

    Chips
    Candace J.

    I discovered Above Ground through an Instagram post and knew that I had to try it the next time I was in DC! Well, it did now disappoint! It definitely tastes like it's from a British chip shop. The flavors are authentic and the food was fresh and piping hot upon delivery. I am not a tartar sauce or mushy peas kind of girl, but I still tried them both. They were DELICIOUS and really amped up the flavor of the fish and chips! I'll have to go again, this time in-person, to catch a FIFA World Cup game to really get the authentic British pub experience!

    James W.

    Wow, the fish and chips were delicious and the highlight of my visit to the Union Market. Got to have it fresh out of the fryer on the spot to truly enjoy this crispy and fresh cut of fish with potato wedges. The fish was quite a sizable portion and was tender and moist inside. The potato wedges were crispy and delicious with a crunch. The seasoning was just right and the portions were quite filling. After walking around the whole Union Market, I really can say Above Ground is on the top of the list for this visit. I will have to try more on the menu like the meat pies and cheese pies. The candy section was quite different from traditional plain chocolate, so that would be a plus in my book.

    Alexis T.

    I had the fish and chips. It comes with one piece of fish on a plate of fries. The fish is flacky, thick and tender. It's beer battered, a bit doughy inside and no seasoning, not even a hint of salt. If I return, I'd probably try some of the other unique items.

    Above Ground in Union Market -- in a narrow hallway; easy to miss; don't play yourself this place slaps.
    Cara E.

    I like to consider myself a fried potato connoisseur. After seeing this place on TikTok and making a mental note of it, I happened to be in the area of Union Market yesterday and decided to pay Above Ground a visit. I am so happy I did. First off, let's give this place a shout for their commitment to giving an authentic experience to the people of the DMV looking for a chip shop vibe. The Lucazade... the Irn-Bru... the selection of UK sweets... everything gave that feeling of a chip shop that I long for as a U.S. citizen who dreams of living in London one day. The service was very personal and charming - I spoke with the owner a bit and he seemed like a guy I'd love to talk to at a house party. He's clearly passionate about what he does and he keeps things moving along while also taking time to get to know the customers. I ordered the chips and if I were to say the portions were generous, that would be an understatement. We love a place who gives good value for the price which, don't get it twisted, these fried potatoes were like $15 or so but it was *easily* enough to share with 2-3 other people. *And* generous portions don't always mean quality -- this place knows ball. Easily the BEST fried potato, fries or otherwise, I've had in the DMV. Not even a competition. Crispy, yet fluffy on the inside. Surprisingly light and airy despite how thick cut they are. And they don't feel heavy or overly greasy. This place is officially on my hit list for the future -- can't wait to try the sausage roll and the beans on toast (my fave). Worth noting: this spot in located inside the Food Hall in Union Market so you have to find it in the food court. It's also a smaller stall and easy to miss if you don't know where you're going. But it's well worth the effort.

    Fish Sandwich with Fries
    Angela O.

    Tucked inside Union Market and it did not disappoint. The fish sandwich is HUGE, honestly big enough to feed two maybe three people. If you have not tried it yet you need to. You MIGHT be able to finish it solo if you are really hungry but I suggest bringing someone to help you out. Good vibes, friendly staff and the fries were solid too. Go check them out.

    Lg Triple Cooked Chips
    Markisha W.

    Had my first experience at Aboveground as a gluten sensitive person and was blown away! Food: I ordered the Chicken Tikka Masala and Chips. The tikka masala was the perfect combination of sweet and savory. Definitely a bit sweeter than an Indian tikka masala which I liked! The chips have been rated best in DC and I can see why. Perfectly seasoned and crispy and I enjoyed it with their curry ketchup. They also sell lots of British treats including candy, so we snagged a few of those too! Service: I was lucky enough to come while Chef Nicolas was working and he is the BEST! So personable and you can tell he's super passionate about what he has created. He gave me lots of background about the food from aboveground, the flavors I was tasting, and the history behind the meals. He also let me know the chicken tikka masala is 100% gluten free and the chips are better for someone who may be gluten sensitive since it's fried in a fryer next to gluten and flour may fall into the chips fryer. Overall, had such a great experience and will be back!!

    THE GOVERNORS Fish & Chips
    Wilton P.

    I've walked around Union Market countless times and for some reason had overlooked AboveGround stall every time. I guess I was always lured to the more complex and intense flavors of the stalls that surround it. But I was in the area recently and read all the glowing reviews on Yelp about their fish and chips and decided that I had to try it for myself. I was blown away by how good it was. They serve you a huge piece of freshly fried perfectly crispy cod on a bed of thick cut chips along with a cup of traditional mushy peas. The fish was perfectly seasoned and moist and served with tartar sauce and malt vinegar. The tartar sauce was nicely balanced between tangy, creamy, and acidic. This was probably the best fish and chips I've had in this area and is worth traveling to Union Market for. Additional, and perhaps most importantly, it was an excellent value at just $19 (not including tax or tip). The service was quick and friendly. I look forward to coming back soon and trying other items on their menu.

    Paul J.

    There are so many options at Union Market, but one place that I come back to is AboveGround, Washington DC's very own chipper. When I get the craving for a pubfood experience, I get myself one of their HUGE Fish & Chips and hope that I can finish it. The fish is a gigantic filet of whitefish (cod, I think) that's the size of my forearm, well breaded and crispy but not too greasy. Add some vinegar and it's ready to go. The fries are a little thicker than expected, but they fit the bill with their smooth, starchy chew. You may be stuffed afterwards, but don't forget to get a few bars of British candy bars to enjoy after you get home. Eat here enough, and you'll be tipping your bowler on the way out! Give AboveGround a try - it's definitely worth it!

    THE GOVERNORS Fish & Chips
    Elaine G.

    I love this little spot. No frills fish and chips. When I order my meal, I pretend I'm in the London Underground. Service is straightforward and I can tell the chef takes pride in his work. I would say this spot and Vic are my go to for f&c.

    Steak & Ale Pie
    Katie V.

    Friendly service, the food tasted fresh. I ordered a Steak & Ale pie - I was slightly disappointed that it wasn't very full and not a lot of meat but the flavor was ok, I liked the texture of the pie crust top (note: tbe crust is not on the bottom of the pie). I did enjoy trying something new.

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    2 months ago

    Absolutely delicious. The best tartar sauce I've ever had in my life.. The chips were perfectly cooked and seasoned

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    Nicholas you were right I believe was in GB great FishAndChip will come again for sure

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    Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips

    Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips

    3.8(611 reviews)
    2.5 mi
    $$

    I'd like to take a moment to share what a great experience my family and I had during our visit on…read moreMother's Day! The food was hot, fresh and tasty. A bit pricy but worth it. The atmosphere was inviting as we were able to enjoy the outdoor patio seating area. And the service was fantastic! Chontell was so helpful and had the best personality for the many visitors that come through there! She took her time in processing our order and was multi-tasking by making the milkshakes, helping customers with their online ordering, and keeping a smile and humor on her face the entire time! Gordon Ramsay did not dissapoint and we will be back the next time we're visiting The Wharf!

    Arrived before lunch rush at 11:30, ordered on the tablet and there were only a few people seated…read moreeating and one other person ordering next to us. The took really long and got worse by 12. Got food at 12:10 and they forgot the added chicken tender I ordered but luckily I caught that early on. Let the lunch rush die down and ordered the mini shakes. Waited for 20 minutes until I asked how far along until my order, they said to pick it up at the drink counter. No one was there when we ordered the shake and there was no sign. Added a biscoff cookie to the shake... which they also forgot and put it on the side cup. Overall it's a small portion and what got us full were the dirty fries. Wanted to try this in Vegas but ended up trying it in DC while in the area instead. Don't come if you're expecting food within 15-20 minutes.

    Photos
    Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips - Eating area

    Eating area

    Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips - Gordon's Combo and Fish Combo

    Gordon's Combo and Fish Combo

    Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips - Gordon's Combo with Extra Fish

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    Gordon's Combo with Extra Fish

    G.O.A.T. Room - Chicken Shammi Kabab Half Chilli Chicken

    G.O.A.T. Room

    4.5(234 reviews)
    1.6 miDowntown

    I've passed G.O.A.T Room wayyyy too many times driving around DC and finally... I was able to stop…read morein for a dinner here with a friend. She made reservations which were easy to grab on a Tuesday night around 8:30 pm. When we walked in about 2/3 of the restaurant was occupied (amazing for them). For anyone driving here there is ample parking either on K street or in the neighborhood for a small fee. The closest metro station is probably Metro Center. Now over to my experience: + I loved the dimmer lighting in here + The servers were veryy veryyy knowledgable about all of the food and drinks on the menu + They offer a lot of vegetarian and vegan options + I can't remember what my main dish was exactly but it was amazingggg. We also ordered the Gol Gappe/Panpuri which is a traditional street food item and it was such a fun appetizer to eat. MY friend who is Indian says that since they have this on the menu she knows that it's an authentic spot lol + I also forgot what the drink was that I got but it reminded me of a lemonade .. it was really delicious and refreshing Definitely check this restaurant out if you're in town and craving some really good Indian food

    Great service, delicious food, and a great central location. The GOAT Room looks to give you the…read moreGreatest Of All Time experience and their food will certainly have me coming back. The Palaak chaat was packed with flavor, lamb samosas were really tasty, and I also enjoyed the spinach rolls. They have a number of share and signature dishes and Indian-fusion cocktails. The outdoor patio was nestled near a beautiful garden and the interior was modern and chic. Looking forward to another visit and coming back with a larger appetite.

    Photos
    G.O.A.T. Room
    G.O.A.T. Room - Aloo Tikki w/ tamarind sauce

    Aloo Tikki w/ tamarind sauce

    G.O.A.T. Room - Plate from the G.O.A.T. Room special

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    Founding Farmers & Distillers - A hand reaches in to pick up a glazed spare rib from a metal BBQ tray loaded with sliced smoked brisket, bread and butter pic...

    Founding Farmers & Distillers

    3.7(2.8k reviews)
    1.3 mi
    $$

    I had eaten at Founding Farmers DC on Pennsylvania Avenue the day prior for a group dinner and was…read morewow'ed by my Au Poivre Steak Frites, so I decided to go again by myself to another location -- which was this one in Chinatown. I made a same-day reservation on Open Table and was seated immediately. I ordered the scratch soda in guava, as that was the current seasonal flavor. It was delicious!! I'm not sure how homemade soda tastes better than normal soda, but I thoroughly enjoyed the drink especially with the flavoring. I ordered the goat cheese burger that comes with balsamic onion, lemon aioli, and fries on the side. I know goat cheese can be pungent and not palatable to all, but I've had it in burgers before and loved it so I thought I'd try Founding Farmers' rendition. I was actually not a fan. I knew I don't like onions and asked for the balsamic onions on the side, but I think I was most turned off by the lemon aioli layered with finely cut lettuce. I usually don't think I'm a nit-picky person, but I think the aioli made the lettuce soggier. I overall didn't love this burger's composition. Aside from this, the patty was juicy and tasted good with the goat cheese which was the main objective of the burger anyway. All in all, I think Founding Farmers is still a worthwhile restaurant to check out while in DC, but I won't order this particular dish again.

    I really wanted to love it for being farm to table. But minor to major flaws made for just an…read moreaverage meal. The salt levels were unbalanced in my juicy Lucy burger, the cornbread was lacking any sweet, the falafel burger was too think and had a dry patty, my Paloma needed fresher grapefruit that hadn't been soaking in simple syrup, my friend found her gnocchi heavy and lacking herbaceousness and acid. Not one dish clearly succeeded, except bizarrely the cinnamon sugar bacon lollis. The wait staff is relaxed and attentive, while the vibe inside is of hungry diners having (just) a good time.

    Photos
    Founding Farmers & Distillers - Bar area

    Bar area

    Founding Farmers & Distillers - The Farmers Trinity -- Brisket, Spareribs, and Jalapeño Cheddar Beef Sausage -- served with mustard potato salad, coleslaw, pic...

    The Farmers Trinity -- Brisket, Spareribs, and Jalapeño Cheddar Beef Sausage -- served with mustard potato salad, coleslaw, pic...

    Founding Farmers & Distillers - A metal BBQ tray with Sweet Heat St. Louis Spareribs, white bread, coleslaw, pickled vegetables, and Joe's BBQ sauce, served ...

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    A metal BBQ tray with Sweet Heat St. Louis Spareribs, white bread, coleslaw, pickled vegetables, and Joe's BBQ sauce, served ...

    The Pure Pasty

    The Pure Pasty

    4.5(555 reviews)
    14.5 mi
    $

    I've heard of this place and when in the area recently, I bought many Pastys to bring home and…read moreenjoy later on. The place is really just carry-out, they have fresh made, hot pastys to go, which they can sell, as well as frozen pastys to bring home. They also have a large selection of snacks directly from England. Service was helpful, the guy working the counter was descriptive and helped me with how the various pastys were made. Also, when walking in the amazing smells of all the workers in the back making food smelled incredible! I opted for some of nearly all their offerings of pastys. A couple of days later I made the chicken masala for lunch. I used their directions for baking, not the microwaving to get it ready to eat. They were spot on and the pasty came our perfectly warmed up and ready to eat. The crust was outstanding! None of it was dry or tastless, the whole thing was flaky, perfect, buttery, and tasty! The filling was very nice, though it had no flavors that resembled Indian or "masala" to me, so I'm not sure what they consider masala, but that's not a bad thing as the filling tasted great! I'm looking forward to making and eating all the rest, I'm sure they'll be great too!

    I love British food. With that said, I was super underwhelmed by their pasties. I ordered the beef,…read morechicken masala, lamb, chicken cordon bleu and sausage rolls. Beef: normally this would be my favorite back in the day but here... Absolutely no flavor. Quite surprised but I would not order again. Chicken Masala: decent flavor, probably my favorite out of all the oasties I got here. Moroccan lamb: decent flavor also. Chicken cordon bleu: not sure If I got a bad one but yea, hard pass. Sausage rolls: decent flavor. Price point is ok as the oasties were quite filled. It's just that a lot of them just didn't have that taste that I gotta come back for more taste. It was just.... Eh.

    Photos
    The Pure Pasty - Traditional Organic Beef

    Traditional Organic Beef

    The Pure Pasty - The front counter aka Altar of Yumminess

    The front counter aka Altar of Yumminess

    The Pure Pasty - Storefront

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    Storefront

    Above Ground - fishnchips - Updated June 2026

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