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Chaia

4.4 (218 reviews)
Closed • 11:00 am - 8:00 pm

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CHAIA ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Casual
Moderate noise
Happy hour specials

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Recommended Reviews - Chaia

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Taco TWO
Emily Y.

I did the pick two taco deal with chicken. Tacos were good and the sauce was flavorful without being too spicy. Most taco options are vegetarian or vegan. They only have tablet ordering and you pick up the order at the counter.

Matthew F.

This is a very cute, hip eatery that specializes in veggie tacos. Now I admit; I love me some pork belly tacos, or pretty much anything with meat in it. But hold on - they have a roster that will leave you full, even if you are a self-professed carnivore. I got a trio of different options and loved every one of them. The prices are reasonable (for this area) as well. I also like the space. It was bright and spacious, with almost an independent coffee shop vibe. If I needed to telework, I could see myself hanging here (but eating tacos instead of sipping lattes). Put away any misconceptions about 'vegan' and try it.

Quesadilla & Kale Salad combo
Samantha H.

The kale salad is delicious! The service was excellent and quick. We had a little sit down at the couches while we waited for our to go lunch and it was comfortable and convenient. Will definitely try more items from the menu.

Seasonal Sampler
Stephanie C.

The tacos were good but a little small for the price. We got the seasonal sample taco platter and especially enjoyed the kale and the squash seasonal tacos. Conveniently location right by the convention center. The server was nice and helpful identifying which tacos were vegan vs vegetarian.

Scrambled egg and black mean taco, braised mushroom taco and green rice.
Stacey M.

The restaurant was clean and the staff were friendly. The restrooms were also clean. My mom and I both had tacos. We both had amthe braised mushroom taco and I also had the scrambled egg and black bean taco. They were both delicious! I also had the green rice and it was fantastic. It was great for my mom who is vegan. I'm not vegan nor a vegetarian but it was still a great experience.

Brussels sprouts quesadilla
Sonya H.

Absolutely delightful spot!! Whether you're gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, or none of the above, Chaia is a must-try! They have the most delightful tacos, with the most flavorful and fun combos of veggies. I usually opt for a taco trio, but, from there, the decision-making starts to get a bit challenging -- they have such a fun assortment of tacos, so it's nearly impossible to settle on just three! - Their creamy kale and potato is a classic for a reason, with a great richness from the cream / pepper jack and heartiness from the potato. They also top the taco with a bit of salsa verde and pickled onions, the perfect little vinegary / peppery bite to cut through the rest of the taco. - The braised mushroom and smoky collard green tacos are equally delicious, and they definitely pack a deep earthy, umami and smoky flavor. They're extremely mushroom / collard green-forward, so I'd only recommend these if you're a huge fan of either vegetable. They're both a bit on the lighter side, so they're the perfect way to balance out a heartier taco like the creamy kale and potato or sweet potato hash. - Chaia's sweet potato hash has to be one of my favorite tacos; not only are the sweet potatoes perfectly cooked, with a nice, soft interior and crispy outer shell, but they have a great smokiness from the chipotle peppers that balance out the slight zing from the feta and arugula pepita salsa. Similarly, the roasted butternut squash taco is incredible, with a great hearty yet somehow light-ish base from the squash and layers of flavor from the goat cheese, caramelized onions, chipotle yogurt, and mint. - If pure veggies aren't your thing or if you're looking for a bit more protein, the scrambled egg and black bean taco is calling your name! It's a wonderful taco, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and has a wonderful creaminess from the queso fresco, freshness from the cilantro and salsa, and tiny hit of heat from the jalapeno. I usually need to get at least one of these guys in my trio to create a balanced meal, but it absolutely deserves to be a go-to

You order at a kiosk. Good selection of vegetarian tacos with fresh ingredients. Food was ready quickly.

Kia D.

I've been here before for a Yelp event quite some time ago now, but haven't been back. Clocking in some steps on my lunch break, I ran into Chaia. I'm so glad to see this business is still here and thriving. At the time, DC seemed a bit inundated with tacos after the cupcake craze... But guess who's here for tacos and plant based options now? Who always thinks it's tacomagarita o'clock? *Raises hand* Everything was a great combination of flavors and textures. The coconut based drink I had was tasty. I can't recall each taco name, but just know that I chose options with my fingers crossed and my taste buds were elated. I'll be returning soon!

Sweet potato nachos
Matt D.

CHINATOWN, Washington DC - A swell fast-casual vegetarian taco joint. The missus and I went there on a Saturday, 1245ish. Some customers, but plenty of available seating. Very clean and bright. I got the sweet potato nachos ($9.75) and the mushroom quesadilla ($5.95). Pretty good nachos, with cubes of roasted sweet potato as a topping. The mushroom quesadilla was simple but done well. Would definitely get the nachos again. She got the taco trio ($13.45) of a kale & potato taco, braised mushroom taco and acorn squash taco. All three were interesting flavor and texture and color combinations, and all three were tasty. The tortilla held up well. Pro tip: little cups of water are free if you don't want a drink. As greens, we like that they compost. Would definitely partake again.

(From left) Roasted Eggplant, Chipotle Sweet Potato Hash Taco, Braised Mushroom Taco
Hannah K.

Yummy vegetarian food! What you order is what you get (complimentary). Reasonably priced and food atmosphere. Fun to try a variety of tacos on the first visit, but be careful with the eggplant one if texture bothers you!

Black Beans
Kristi W.

Super healthy vegan/vegetarian/GF optional taco spot that did not disappoint! The ingredients were fresh and delicious! The black beans were hands down the BEST that I've ever had in my life! I wish I could buy them by the pint! So good! My braised Mushroom taco had a little heat which complimented it perfectly. The scrambled egg & black bean taco was just as tasty! The chips and salsa was good. Had a kick there, too. I ended up getting the combo with two tacos and a side of chips and salsa, which was more than enough. I did get the hibiscus tea and it was refreshing! Prices were a bit on the higher end but it is a healthier spot, too. If you want fresh, quality ingredients these days, you kind of expect it. This, Im not complaining at all and will definitely be returning soon. The creamed potatoes looked divine. That will be on my return list for sure! The customer service was great. They were friendly and helpful. There is an ample amount of sitting inside and even a couple of cute couches to lounge on. They have a few adult beverages, too. I can see those couches being beneficial for that alone. Haha.

Smitha M.

The food is so delicious! I am so happy to see plentiful vegetarian and vegan options. The service was smooth, quick, and easy. I got all three tacos adapted for vegan and they used vegan cheese as well! And the eatery has a nice, relaxing vibe, it is a wonderful spot to catch up with friends in a quiet, relaxing environment. I hope to be back again soon!

Menu
Neha G.

Happy to see another location easier to access via metro vs going all the way to Georgetown. This is a larger location with more sit down space. Order at the kiosk and your name will be called when the order is ready. The $4.95 tacos are tiny. I see why people do 3 to feel full. Good vegetarian taco but wish they had some bean or tofu options. Also, no one by the kiosk if you have a question about ordering or food substitutes. They have restrooms.

outdoor seating

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17 days ago

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Juan D.

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Bettina S.

Elizabeth, so glad you enjoyed our restaurant and the food!

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2 years ago

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Juan D.

Thank you, Smitha. Thrilled that you loved Chaia. We do too:-)

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Bettina S.

Just amazing!!!! Thank you, Sarah, for the enchilada love.

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4 years ago

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Hi Bryan G., thank you for your amazing review!

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Ask the Community - Chaia

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4.3(51 reviews)
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First of all, the tacos were amazing. They have such a wide variety. Our group had the following…read moretacos, and all of them were outstanding. Shrimp, pork belly, roasted duck, and Baja fish tacos. We also had the plantains which were very delicious and the gelato had a beautiful texture and taste. Above all was the service. We felt welcome, people were so kind, especially the manager and our server Wyatt. We love the ambience and vibe of the restaurant. Great for date night, friends, or even family dinner with teens. Even though we were there until closing time other 11 PM. They were friendly and did not rush us at all. If you were looking for a great place to eat in Washington DC near the Penn Quarter, I highly recommend Bartaco.

First time ordering from Bartaco. Decided to go in and place a takeout order of two rice bowls,…read morechips and guacamole. The service was very friendly. The hostess greeted me and asked if I'd ever been to the restaurant before. She directed me to the back counter where I was able to review the menu and place my order. The server at this register was also very nice. I liked the texture of the rice bowls and everything was cooked well. However, the portions for everything were smaller than I expected for the price. Bartaco offers items with mushrooms, falafel, and cauliflower. However I think it would be great if they could offer something with tofu as there is not a protein option for vegans. The chips and guacamole were decent but nothing special. Interesting that the chips come as large pieces instead of as individual chips. I'd maybe stop in again if I was nearby but I'm not sure I'm eager to return.

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dLeña - Pork Belly** and Short Rib**

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Our entire experience at dLeña could be summed up in one word - "wow"! When we entered, we found a…read moremodern, stunning bar and a dining room that was buzzing with hip clientele. The hosts and our server were all fantastically gracious and friendly. Plus, the food was spectacular! The restaurant also housed the Roja Jazz Lounge in the basement, which we were hoping to find a seat at after our meal in order to enjoy a nightcap. Keeping that goal in mind, I skipped having a beverage with my meal. Instead, I went immediately to my entree of a whole, butterflied branzino. One half of the fish was coated with green adobo chili, while the other was sprinkled with the red version. The fish was topped with a ripe slaw made from citrus and cherry heirloom tomatoes. It was served with a grilled avocado half stuffed with a scoop of corn salsa sitting where the pit had been removed, as well as several flour tortillas if I wanted to make my own wraps. The branzino was moist, flavorful, and uniquely prepared. My companion ordered the short rib tacos, and he absolutely adored the tender meat and grilled vegetables. After we completed our delectable meal, we headed downstairs to the lounge, where we were, thankfully, able to grab two seats at the bar, while a live jazz band performed in the corner. In addition to the small bar counter, there were some chair-less high-top tables and larger, more comfortable lounge seating. Our barstools allowed us the ability to scan their over 100 mezcals and tequilas. The selection was impressive, but their cocktail list was also something of which they should be proud. My Pina Punch included Del Maguey Puebla Coconut Fat-Washed Mezcal, a ginger-mint syrup, lime, and pineapple soda. It was served in a glass that resembled a whole pineapple. The drink was sweet, refreshing, and offered a slight kick from the ginger. It was a combination of many items that I adored, so I was happy! The beautiful d'Leña really evangelized its namesake, "leña," which translated to "firewood", in its rustic decor, wood-fired food preparations, and smoky agave beverages. They managed to stand by that theme and execute it all with class, making it truly worth your visit.

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Dos Toros - Burritos, Bowls, and Tacos - Bacon breakfast burrito

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3.8(58 reviews)
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We ate dinner early. The restaurant had not yet reached its dinner crush…read more My wife and I were sat at a table for two. Within 5 minutes another couple was seated at a table next to us (table tops about 12" apart). It had the feeling of eating at a table with strangers. With all the space in the restaurant, why not spread guests out? It was very difficult to have a conversation without feeling that you were sharing content with the neighbors. Additionally, when the waiter served the table next to us his butt was literally an inch or two from my face. Very hard to enjoy a meal when someone's rear is in your face. I simply stopped eating and leaned away. Food came. Tamal Rojo and a chicken taco. Both were rather bland. Asked for Tabasco - didn't have any. Brought house made habanero sauce which helped a lot. Our waitress was sweet and did a good job but just couldn't overcome the environment. In all we were eager to try it out - but quite disappointed in leaving. I can't imagine coming back.

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