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Oyamel

3.8 (3.6k reviews)
ModerateMexican, Tapas Bars
Closed • 11:30 am - 10:00 pm

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OYAMEL ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Trendy
Good for groups
Outdoor seating

Recommended Reviews - Oyamel

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Danielle P.

I was a little concerned when we walked in here because we weren't greeted by the host or hostess and it almost felt like we were going to need to go elsewhere. They eventually took our name and told us it'd be 10-15 minutes for a table. Things got better once we weren't seated. Our server noticed we were given the brunch menu, so he got us the correct menu right away. He was so kind and accommodating. The tables are a little small for the presentation of the food and the noise level is a bit loud, but it is a pretty fun atmosphere. We appreciated they kept our water glasses filled since it was so hot and humid that day. My daughter got the tortilla soup and cheese enchiladas. She enjoyed her meal. I went with a variety of tacos including chicken, carnitas, shredded beef and barbecued pork. I steered clear of the cactus and grasshopper tacos lol! Everything was really good! Glad they were able to turn things around from the first impression.

you can also split the check with your table.
Toya D.

After visiting the nearby National Museum of Art recently, we were famished and decided to enjoy an early dinner at Oyamel. Here's what I had: * warm, fresh tortilla chips + delish, smooth salsa (I would got back JUST for these, by the way.) * tacos = carnitas + pollo a la parilla * limonada [not pictured] = refreshing, especially on a scorching summer day Our waiter (Juan) was so helpful. We informed him of our food allergies and he was super attentive and cautious with the handling of our orders -- which is something we both appreciated immensely. The receipt shows a QR code to pay for your meal. You can also split the check with your table, which is even more convenient. __ I eat. @f.hux I thrift. @DCthriftish I read. @dcbook.ishh

Menu (July2026)
Meredith B.

Always enjoy the food here! On my most recent visit my server was Larissa and was super hospitable and helpful! We had two gluten allergies at the table and she made us feel taken care of and answered all our questions. My favorite dishes were the appetizers and sides, the equites, guacamole, queso, and refried beans were the best. I found the enchiladas to be a bit bland, but that was all I tried that I didn't care for.

chicken taco and beef taco
Noelle L.

Came on a rainy and very busy Friday night. It is very very loud in the restaurant, the music is so loud that you can't really hear the people at your table. The tables are pushed together so closely that when the waitressing staff attends to tables next to you, they are almost touching your table, which felt a bit unsanitary once our food arrived. But the waiter was very knowledgeable and attentive. We got guacamole for the table, which comes with a basket of chips. Every table gets free chips and then afterwards chips are $3 a basket, so be sure to ask for your free chips with your guacamole appetizer. The hibiscus drink and the mojito drink are very pretty and tasted great but are not a strong drinks. I would suggest getting shots if you actually want to experience the alcohol here. The food was good, the beef taco was the favorite. The guacamole was also really good.

Enchiladas de tinga poblano & Reposado Margarita
Michelle F.

The restaurant was crowded on a Wednesday night, but we had a reservation and got seated right away. Make a reservation if you can! The restaurant was lively and the decor matched it. It was a bit loud so conversation with our larger party was difficult. The food was good but nothing memorable. Overall a fun place to with decent food. The prices aren't too crazy.

Chips and salsa
Pam H.

I'd say our meal was fine, just Ok, nothing great but nothing terrible either. The menu is basically small plates, something we didn't realize until we went to order and the waiter informed us of that. Of the three things we ordered, the queso fundido was our favorite and it's arguably the least interesting thing one could order at a Mexican restaurant. Still we enjoyed it and finished the whole thing. The tamal was very tart and extremely oniony from the marinated onion garnish (can't remember what they called it). I didn't eat it with much of the onion fearing how that might come back to haunt me later. The enchilada was likewise ok, nothing great. In terms of ambiance we were seated at a two top that was a very small table with two uncomfortable plastic feeling chairs, squeezed in what should have been just an empty walkway between two rows of booths. It was very uncomfortable being in the way of the waitstaff and bus staff, and seemed highly questionable if it was up to fire code. Overall I think this is one of those places that takes itself a little too seriously and the food just isn't anything great.

Margarita with Salt Air Foam
Joe S.

This restaurant from Jose Andres was one of the better elevated Mexican restaurants at which I've eaten. I wasn't super starving so I had a fish taco and the enchiladas. The taco was amazing and was some kind of fried catfish! YUM! And the enchiladas were delicious as well. The green sauce cut through the overabundance of cheesy goodness quite well. I like that you can mix and match tacos so you're not stuck with all of the same one. The menu didn't have a ton of choices, which made deciding a bit easier. They had an amazing bar staff too that was absolutely killing it mixing cocktails. The margaritas were on point and the one had a flair of "salt air" foam instead of a messy, sticky rim. Who wants a messy sticky rim, right?

Estilo Ron Cooper comes with a side of mezcal.
Kris P.

Oyamel was an awesome vibe and even with great company, the small bites were enough and cocktails flowed to satisfy. Friday night we risked with no reservations and was able to snag a table. One glance at the bar it was elbow to elbow, so we dove right into our dinner. Service was quick and friendly. I chose two pescado Baja (Maryland catfish) tacos and one hongos en molito (wild mushrooms and peppers). Both were delicious and the flavors were nicely layered, however my hongos tacos fell apart on first bite. This was a bit saucy and probably better to get the sauce on the side. The chile de arbol in the pescado was so bold, mmm mmm. To compliment my dinner I chose the mezcal margarita and loved it. It hit that perfect sweet spot - bright citrus Magdala liqueur, followed by a gentle, smoky depth of mezcal that lingered just long enough. Onward to the bar to enjoy some after dinner cocktails and I chose the Estilo Ron Cooper. When I say Dua Lipa's "One Kiss" randomly played in my head as I sipped away, the flavors of this mezcal was fun and delicious. Time was fleeting but had it frozen, I may have tried a few more others and had the bartenders spin me something unique. Our bartenders for the night were very personable and engaging. I'm looking forward to coming back soon.

Mommy lengua taco..soo good.
Shelly J.

I was in DC with my friend to see Romeo and Prince Royce at Cap 1 arena. Since we all know that the food there is expensive and not appetizing.. We picked Oyamel which is another restaurant by Jose Andres. Since I'm a fan of Jaleo I knew that I would be in good hands. The menu is crafted to small plates. I picked taco de Lengua (beef tongue) And chicharonnes quesadillas. Both plates were delicious. I had beef tongue tacos before but not like this. Meat was tender and savory. My quesadilla was delicious. The comp chips were good, but house salsa was served warm. It was good too but the house made guac IS A MUST!! Agua fresca de pineapple ... I'm be honest was a miss... for what they charge I expected better.. No garnishes.. completely watered down. . I don't recommend. The choco flan a miss..... very dry the chocolate part very dry and no flavor. Betty Crocker quality cake. The flan wasn't what expected .. very disappointed. Service was good but a lot of the menu items can be hit or miss.. it's like a 50 50 chance you might like.it or not.

Shawn H.

Boss pulled up and said "we're going to Oyamel" and that was the right call. Weekday lunch, Penn Quarter, reservation secured because this place does not slow down for anybody. Pitcher of margaritas for the table: smooth, rich, not too strong. Exactly what a group lunch needs without turning into a whole situation. The guacamole is terrific and they'll adjust the spice level to your liking, which is a small thing that goes a long way when you're feeding a whole office with different tolerances. The tacos are built on house-made masa tortillas and you can taste that they care. I did the Pollo à la Parrilla and the Chilito de Res. Both landed. The beef especially, slow-braised and seasoned like they meant it. This is a José Andrés restaurant, so you already know the room has energy. If you're in the District and haven't made this a regular stop, fix that.

Calabacitas con frijoles
Heather D.

I was excited to try this after seeing it was a Jose Andres restaurant! There was a $25 special which included two appetizers and a taco, so I ended up getting the Camarones al Mojo, Frijoles, and Cochnita Pibil taco. I loved the shrimp! This was like a sweet garlic flavor and very generous amount. The Frijoles was like a bean and squash soup which I didn't love. For cocktails, I had the Daisy Margarita. The housemade grenadine was actually pomegranate syrup, and the salt air rolling was very unique!

Taco de Lengua
Ying X.

A Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant. Delicious and beautifully presented cuisine,and the butterfly-themed decor added a dreamy touch. Chips and Salsa: Absolutely amazing! Worth coming just for the complimentary tortilla chips. The corn flavor was incredibly rich, with a subtle undertone; the salsa was perfectly balanced between sour and spicy, with the garlic, onion, and cilantro adding a refreshing and pungent aroma. Everything was just right. Ceviche con Citricos: The dish I was most looking forward to, but it was only so-so. The sauce, made with citrus, pineapple habanero, and Fresno peppers, unsurprisingly had a refreshing and tangy flavor, but it was slightly too sweet and lacked spiciness, significantly diminishing its vibrant and stimulating effect; the bass was also bland in terms of oiliness and sweetness. Salmon would have made it much more delicious. Julienned jicama was sweet and crunchy, which was quite interesting. My friend and I initially thought they were pears. Taco de Lengua: My first time trying a beef tongue taco , and it was definitely the most interesting taco on the menu. The beef tongue was clean and odorless, stewed until tender and juicy, with a savory flavor similar to Chinese lo shui滷水. The salsa, white onion slices, and cilantro were fresh and crisp, creating a complicated texture. The tortilla was baked perfectly, not too dry, and had a good chew. Everything was right too. Quesadilla de Chicharrones: The pork belly was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with the fatty parts almost melting in your mouth. It had a rich smoky and marinated flavor, but it was a bit too salty for me. The salsa had melted, reducing its spiciness considerably; it was basically just tomato sauce. The cheese was rich and creamy, softening the flavors--the more the merrier! But that's where the problem lay; the cheese was visibly unevenly distributed. Huarache de Bistec: The bread was very hard and difficult to cut, but the simple, fresh corn aroma was irresistible; the flank steak was tender and savory, and the smoothness of the cream and sunny-side up egg contrasted beautifully with the refreshing salsa. Ladies and gentlemen, please add an egg! Tamarind Juice: Sweeter and lighter than regular tamarind juice. More suitable for a wider audience. The restaurant is very busy, so please make a reservation in advance. Also, since my friend paid the bill, and she went to the restroom while the waiter coming back for the tip and signing, I suggest that we wait for her return, but the waiter refused to wait and insisted that I sign on her behalf. Is this reasonable?

Chris J.

Fantastic food and margaritas! After or BEFORE checking out the National Gallery of Art, I HIGHLY recommend dropping by Oyamel for a Mexican flavor explosion in your mouth. The salsa is PERFECT! I'd suggest a Mezcal margarita to wash it down. I had 3 tacos: Nopal Asado, Pescado Baja California and the crunchy Chapulines (fried crickets). The latter might sound gross but trust me the flavor is excellent and it has lots of protein. I promise you it's not as gross as you might think. The service was perfect. Only when I needed them. Great place for a business lunch or a first date.

Remnants of the guacamole

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5 months ago

the bbq street taco was good. The enchiladas were runny and had no flavor. the flan was dried up. Disappointed.

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Oyamel Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Oyamel

Do you offer takeout or delivery services?

Hi Viola, Thank you for your question. While we do not directly offer a delivery service, we are… 

Near by parking?

Street parking or there are multiple garages you can pay for.

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dLeña - Pork Belly** and Short Rib**

dLeña

4.4(1.3k reviews)
0.5 mi
•$$$

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.

I stumbled upon this place after coming to the restaurant I wanted to go to and it was closed…read more Didn't know this was a Michelin Guided restaurant. This isn't your typical Mexican restaurant as their Mexican dishes are added with an extra hint of pizaz. Crab Guacamole (5/5): The portion does look small, but it was packed with flavor. The crab was seasoning with this delicates spice and mixed with the guacamole. Horchatas (3/5): Honestly too creamy for me. Seafood enchilada (5/5): Comes with seafood like crab and shrimp. It's mixed with powerful flavor. Churros (5/5); Crispy on the outside and fluffy in the inside as it was perfect. The ice in the middles was perfect as a refresher. It also comes with a caramel dipping sauce. I definitely recommend this place for a night out.

Photos
dLeña - Bathrooms

Bathrooms

dLeña - Broccolini

Broccolini

dLeña - Salmon Zarandeado*

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Salmon Zarandeado*

Mi Vida - Fish and birria tacos

Mi Vida

4.0(250 reviews)
0.2 mi•Penn Quarter
•$$$

As someone who attends Washington Capitals pretty frequently, I have always wanted to try Mi Vida…read more It is usually always busy, so I made sure to make a reservation with plenty of time. Surprisingly, the restaurant was empty. Just me and my family and one other party. Upon sitting down and ordering our meal and getting our drinks, we were asked to move to another part of the restaurant. At the same time, our appetizers were starting to be delivered. Moving was no problem. The table we moved to was much comfier, however, they sat us right next to the other loud party when the whole restaurant was empty. It would later start filling up, but it was a odd experience. The food was great. Birria is one of my favorites and it was delicious. The queso appetizer was a must and the chicken taquitos were incredible. Our eyes were definitely bigger than our stomachs, but everything was absolutely delicious. I truly could not stop eating, despite being so full. The drinks were also great! I look forward to dining here again during another visit to DC or for a Capitals game.

Came for lunch. Sat at one of the tables around the bar, where signs say "see your bartendar"…read more I stood at the bar for a few minutes, and apparently went unnoticed by the bartendar. Another couple, came in much later than me and sat in the seats behind me. the bartendar immediately came over to serve them, all the while I was still standing at the bar. quite dissapointmenting. This was around lunch time on a Thursday.

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Mi Vida - Interior

Interior

Mi Vida - Fish taco

Fish taco

Mi Vida - Where are the customers? Only one other table seated

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Where are the customers? Only one other table seated

Mi Vida - Birria Tacos

Mi Vida

3.9(1.6k reviews)
1.1 mi
•$$

Posting about a month after eating here and realize they are currently closed for repairs…read more Mi Vida is a "go to" when company is in town since everyone typically can find something they like on the menu. Sitting outside gives a great opportunity for people watching and enjoy the fresh air. We started with queso fundido, it was different than what we were expecting. Very thick cheese that we had to cut or use our fingers to rip apart - it is not a dippy king of queso. We broke some chips trying to get it out. Also it comes with soft tortillas but we asked for chips as well. Decent flavor but not something we would order again. All the tacos are good. The vegetable ones were really delicious and so glad I tried them. I'd definitely order them again. Can't go wrong with a carne asada taco either! Two tacos per order. We also had a side of sweet potato fries as a side. Service was okay. We were the end table and things moved at a very relaxing pace. Not sure if it's because of our location or the server was busy with other tables, but we definitely had to flag down for drink refills and getting the check. Nothing that should hinder you from going, but good to be aware. Look forward to them reopening!

Hosts and Servers are always friendly here! Table service with a view of the sunset.. paired with…read morefresh guacamole and chips - what else could there be? Creative cocktails, non alcohol selection and mocktails. The enchiladas Suisa are a bit tangy and spicy, plentiful with chicken. The platano maduro are like a desert, sweet and topped with crema.

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Mi Vida - Outdoor Seating

Outdoor Seating

Mi Vida - Guacamole

Guacamole

Mi Vida - Non-alcoholic drink

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Non-alcoholic drink

Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar

Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar

4.6(3k reviews)
1.3 mi•Downtown
•$$

Mauricio took care of us at the bar. He explained the Drinks and menu very well. Everything we…read moretried was spot on.

Second time at this restaurant…read more Walked in for lunch at 1pmish... No tables available, only bar. That's okay, I was lunching alone. Ambiance is always posh and elegant. I like it a lot. Ordered the Lunch Prix Fixe, $27 for 3 courses. Plenty of food -- I won't be having dinner today. Started with sparkling water, San Pellegrino -- was an extra cost of course. Provided in a red wine glass with a lime. Very elegant, I might add. They threw a tiny bowl of corn nuts as a snackie snack. Starter course, I ordered the ceviche chipotle. Because I came with sweet potato. Ceviche came with a very generous portion swai fish and shrimp. Deliciously prepared, the sauce was amazing. A little on the too much red onion side, but that's to be expected of a ceviche dish. I was full after just the first course, but I pressed on. Second course, I ordered chaufa de mariscos. Seafood fried rice. Delicious rice as shrimp. The squid and calamari were a bit too over cooked and rubbery for my liking. Sadly not too much seafood in this dish. Still delicious and delightful. Third course, dessert, I ordered the arroz con leche cheesecake. For those with a very sweet tooth -- this is your jam. Small portion but packed lots of flavor. Dulce de leche drizzle all over. I enjoyed every bite. Overall, great experience. Will do the fixed price Lunch Prix Fixe again. Pisco and Nasca dining is a great hit every time - thoroughly recommend. Cheers! -gabe

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Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar
Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar
Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar

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Barcelona Wine Bar

Barcelona Wine Bar

4.2(2.4k reviews)
1.3 mi•Logan Circle
•$$

Going to Barcelona Wine Bar has been the most fantastic exhilarating nights I have enjoyed in my…read morepast 52 years of life. My husband Dave and I go almost every month and the food and drinks are fantastic! I will say this restaurant draws a very young audience, but nonetheless we are always down to boogie. My favorites have been the goats whipped cheese, flank steak, patatas bravas, and the empanadas! And the drinks to absolutely die for! I always start Dave and I off with a pitcher of sangria, red of course, but he's not too keen on the fruity drinks so he always gets a beer. Overall experience is a 10000/10 am definitely going back next month. Xoxo Kathy!

One of my favorite go-to spots whenever I'm in DC! Barcelona never disappoints. The food is always…read morefresh, flavorful, and phenomenal, and the ambiance is top-tier. Plus, you never know who you might see while you're there! They also have a great Happy Hour with a really nice selection of food and drinks. Now, I've never been a gimlet girl, but after trying their Richmond Gimlet, my palate was officially expanded! A gimlet is now one of my favorite cocktails. The unfortunate part is that everybody can't make a GOOD gimlet, even though it seems like such a simple cocktail. Barcelona definitely gets it right! If you're looking for good music, a great crowd, delicious food, and even better drinks, definitely check out Barcelona. It's always a vibe!

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Barcelona Wine Bar - Indoor

Indoor

Barcelona Wine Bar
Barcelona Wine Bar

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Oyamel - mexican - Updated November 2026

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