A Dance of Culinary Highs and Lows at Philippe, Washington D.C. Rating: 3.5/5 If one was to embark on a gastronomic adventure, they might end up at National Wharf, home to the newest installation of the Philippe Chow empire: Philippe. The setting is suave, bordering on debonair, as if James Bond decided to swap martinis for mandu. The ambiance whets your appetite, promising a culinary performance worthy of a standing ovation. Our players for the evening were a well-versed wait staff and wine sommelier, presenting their food and drink recommendations with aplomb. Yet, their otherwise stellar performance was marred by the mysterious vanishing act of our Salt and Pepper Eggplant - a dish that, like a Houdini act, never made it to our table. The show opened with the Hot and Sour Soup, a melody of velvety flavor that left us clamoring for its missing partner in crime, the humble cracker. The Wok Fried Pork Dumplings and Green Beans in black bean sauce graced the stage next. While neither were the gastronomic equivalent of a show-stopping Hamilton number, they at least didn't hit a sour note. Next came the Scallion Pancakes, playing a convincing role of a pita chip in a Chinese delicacy's costume. But fear not, dear reader, for the Chilean Sea Bass then entered stage right, dressed in black bean and ginger-garlic sauce, stealing the spotlight with a dazzling flavor performance. The Peking Duck, all crisp and lean, was a solo act worth an encore. Just be sure to request the full ensemble, or the duck's darker half will retreat backstage prematurely. The Salt and Pepper Lobster duo and Red King Crabs were seafood symphonies in their own right, despite a few mushy notes from the crab section. Last but not least, the Nine Seasons Spicy Prawns did their best orange chicken impersonation, with a sweet and spicy tango that was lovely, albeit performed by noticeably petite prawns. However, throughout the performance, an unexpected antagonist made its presence known - the room temperature. Hovering around a balmy 75 degrees, it threatened to bring the curtain down on our dining experience. Our pleas to the stage manager, or should I say, Glen, were sadly unheard, making us yearn for an air conditioner's cool encore. In the final act, Philippe takes us on a rollercoaster of culinary highs and lows. Despite the standout performances and the suave setting, the temperature faux pas and the occasional service slip-up meant the final curtain fell a bit too soon. While the standing ovation remains elusive, Philippe could yet become a Broadway hit, if only they could iron out those kinks. read more

I visited this restaurant on Mother's Day expecting a refined, high-end dining experience, but unfortunately, the visit was extremely disappointing and fell far below expectations. While the restaurant itself is visually appealing, the overall cleanliness and service issues completely overshadowed the atmosphere. Upon being seated, we immediately noticed gnats flying throughout the dining area, which was very off-putting. To make matters worse, the silverware at our table was visibly dirty and still had food residue on it. The floors, walls, and mirrors throughout the restaurant also appeared unclean, with smudges, fingerprints, and visible dust that gave the establishment a poorly maintained appearance. The service was equally underwhelming. I would personally rate it a 4 out of 10. Staff uniforms appeared untidy, and employees cleaning tables were loudly discussing personal matters across the dining room floor, disrupting the dining experience for guests. As someone who speaks Spanish, I understood the conversation and can confirm it was unrelated to work. I eventually had to politely ask them to lower their voices. As for the food, the vegetable fried rice and lettuce beef wraps were bland and lacked flavor. The only standout dish was the Kung Pao chicken, which was enjoyable. Overall, however, the service style felt more "drop-and-go" rather than attentive or hospitable. By the end of the meal, I genuinely felt we could have had a more satisfying experience ordering takeout elsewhere for a fraction of the price. What should have been a special Mother's Day lunch instead became an experience we were eager to leave behind. To conclude the meal, the staff unexpectedly brought over two glasses of Prosecco that we never requested. My son had only been drinking Diet Coke throughout the visit and does not consume alcohol, so the assumption felt inappropriate and unnecessary. Overall, this visit was disappointing from start to finish, especially for a holiday occasion that was meant to feel special. WE DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS PLACE AT ALL. read more

A Birthday Dinner to Remember! I recently hosted my birthday dinner at Philippe Chow DC for a group of 11 people on 1/11/25, and I have to say--this restaurant exceeded every expectation! From start to finish, the experience was absolutely amazing, and I couldn't have asked for a better way to celebrate. The Director of Private Events, Regina, was a dream to work with. She collaborated with me to create a customized menu that accommodated all of my guests' dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone had something delicious to enjoy. The restaurant manager, Sadi, and his staff were incredibly warm, joyful, and attentive throughout the evening. They checked on us frequently, making sure we had everything we needed--from fresh plates and utensils to replenished drinks. We opted for a four-course family-style dinner, and the staff orchestrated each course perfectly. The food was brought out at just the right pace, allowing us to savor every bite without feeling rushed. Each dish was served at the ideal temperature, and the flavors? Simply exquisite. Every bite was a harmonious blend of freshness and boldness, leaving us raving about the food. The drinks were equally impressive, beautifully crafted and just what we needed to relax and enjoy the vibrant, celebratory atmosphere. The combination of exceptional service, delectable dishes, and the lively yet elegant vibe made the evening unforgettable. My guests and I are already planning our next visit because we can't wait to experience Philippe Chow again! A huge thank-you to Regina, Sadi, and the entire team for making my birthday so special. If you're looking for a place to host a memorable event or simply indulge in some amazing food, Philippe Chow DC is it. read more

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Philippe Chow, a Chinese Asian restaurant, and I must say it was an exceptional experience. From the moment I walked in, the ambiance was inviting and elegant, setting the stage for a memorable meal. The menu at Philippe Chow offers a wide range of delectable dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine. Each dish was expertly prepared with attention to detail and presented beautifully. The flavors were bold, authentic, and truly satisfying. One standout dish was the Peking Duck, which was perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The accompanying pancakes and hoisin sauce complemented the duck perfectly, creating a harmonious combination of flavors. The service at Philippe Chow was top-notch. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to ensure a delightful dining experience. They were happy to provide recommendations and accommodate any dietary preferences or restrictions. The restaurant itself exudes a sophisticated and upscale atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for special occasions or intimate gatherings. The attention to detail in the decor and the overall ambiance added to the overall dining experience. I highly recommend Philippe Chow and look forward to returning soon. read more

I celebrated my birthday here a week ago and I have one word to describe the experience... AMAZING. I booked the semi-private room by working with Regina a couple months in advance. She provided menu options and even let me customize my menu with my picture on it. The service my party received that night was exceptional. Everything came in a timely manner and the food was delicious! I selected the Crown Tasting Menu which included Prawns, dumplings, a beautiful dessert spread, and many more tasty items. The waiters and waitresses were so nice! I could tell they were enjoying my party as well. The ambiance was perfect. In the semi private room they provide a music playlist to match your style and there wasn't any overflow of noise from the main dining room. If you're looking to plan a private dinner or just a fancy night out I highly recommend Philippe DC! For private parties please coordinate with Regina. She is so kind! I couldn't make up my mind on the menu selection and she was extremely patient. She really made my night spectacular. I really appreciate the flexibility and professionalism provided by Regina and the Philippe staff. Thank you again! read more

Last evening, my family and I had the pleasure of dining together at Philippe Chow for the first time, and the experience exceeded our expectations from start to finish. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with exceptional warmth, immediately making our children feel comfortable and at ease. Chef Montanez personally guided us through the menu, thoughtfully highlighting signature dishes and offering insightful recommendations. His attentiveness and genuine engagement ensured that each of our preferences was heard and thoughtfully considered. We were all delighted by the selections and eager to experience every dish suggested. The level of service throughout the evening was exemplary, with the entire service team demonstrating professionalism, care, and precision. Every dish was outstanding, making it difficult to choose a favorite. We are already looking forward to returning to further explore the menu, as the quality was consistently exceptional across all courses. Sincere thanks to the entire Philippe Chow team for delivering an unforgettable dining experience--seamlessly blending ambiance, service, and cuisine at the highest level. read more

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Philippe Chow, and I must say, it was an unforgettable experience from start to finish! From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was vibrant yet elegant, setting the perfect tone for the evening. Our server, Roa, was phenomenal. Attentive, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable, she ensured we had everything we needed and even made excellent recommendations for our meal. Her suggestions--especially the Peking duck--were spot-on, and we couldn't stop raving about how perfectly prepared everything was. A special shoutout to Sadi, the manager, who went above and beyond to check in on us and make sure our experience was nothing short of exceptional. It's rare to see such hands-on management, and it made us feel truly valued as guests. Every dish was a masterpiece, from the dumplings to the Beijing chicken, and the cocktails were equally impressive. Philippe Chow is a perfect combination of outstanding food, impeccable service, and a welcoming atmosphere. Thank you, Roa and Sadi, for making our evening so special! I'll definitely be back and will be recommending Philippe Chow to all my friends. read more

Dining at Philippe Chow at The Wharf was an unforgettable experience. We experienced the Moët and Satay dinner this past week. From the moment we sat down, it was clear that this restaurant is serious about both flavor and atmosphere. The menu perfectly captured the essence of the restaurant--elegant, bold, and deeply rooted in upscale Chinese cuisine with a modern twist. The flavors were rich, balanced, and thoughtfully crafted, making it clear that quality ingredients and precise technique are at the heart of the kitchen. The crispy duck was a standout--crispy skin, tender meat, and such an amazing entree. Even the seemingly simple dishes like the vegetable fried rice or spicy chicken satay had surprising depth and complexity. The service was professional and attentive without being overbearing, we loved Sebastian who gave us amazing drink suggestions and had a fun personality. The waterfront setting only added to the overall ambiance. If you're looking for a place where the food not only tastes incredible but reflects the personality of the restaurant itself, Philippe Chow at The Wharf delivers in every way. Highly recommended. read more

I came here for dinner and had a pretty enjoyable experience. The lychee martini different from others I've tried and I wasn't a fan of the cream in it, but the Paradise Bay cocktail was sweet, fruity, and refeshing. The truffle pork soup dumplings and Beijing chicken were decent but not particularly memorable. My favorite dish was the crispy beef, flavorful with great texture. The salt and pepper prawns were tasty but slightly overpriced. The cotton candy baked Alaska was a highlight, both delicious and fun to watch with its flaming presentation and sparkler. The restaurant has an elegant and stylish atmosphere. Although there's a dress code, we called ahead and were allowed in with workout clothes, possibly due to the snowtorm that day. Still, the ambiance and decor make it a place worth dressing up for. I had the Kung Pao chicken, which didn't impress me much. However, I enjoyed the lettuce wraps (thought the meat could've had more texture) and the shirmp dish. Overall, the food was good, the setting was beautiful, and I'm looking forward to coming back to try more dishes. read more

I had an incredible experience at Philippe Chow DC! From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere felt elegant but comfortable, with beautiful lighting and a stylish vibe that makes the whole night feel special. I went during happy hour, and it was absolutely worth it. The selection was amazing--great cocktails, delicious small plates, and prices that make it easy to try a little bit of everything. The drinks were perfectly crafted, and the food came out fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. My favorites were the satay chicken, the crispy spring rolls, and of course the famous Peking duck, which truly lives up to the hype. The flavors were bold and authentic, and everything tasted high-quality. The service was also outstanding. The staff were attentive, friendly, and really helped create a smooth, enjoyable dining experience.. Blanca and jolio are the best! If you're looking for a classy spot in DC with excellent Asian cuisine and one of the best happy hours in the city, Philippe Chow should be at the top of your list. I can't wait to go back! read more

Philippe Chow is one of my favorite restaurants in NYC, so I was thrilled to see that the DC location lived up to the hype. I visit the downtown NYC spot so often that I recognized the manager, Sadi (hope I'm spelling it right!), which was a pleasant surprise. Sadi was just as professional and welcoming as I remember--making sure everything was perfect and that we had a great experience. The DC location itself is gorgeous--spacious, yet still with the same Philippe vibe I love. Our waitress was fantastic, providing exceptional service throughout the meal. To top it off, I was treated to a complimentary glass of champagne to celebrate my birthday, and my daughter had a blast with a plate of cotton candy to keep her entertained (such a thoughtful touch!). The only reason I'm giving it 4.5 stars instead of a full 5 is that they didn't have green prawns on the menu, which is a personal favorite of mine from the NYC location. That said, I'll definitely be back soon. Overall, an amazing dining experience, and I highly recommend it! read more

I recently celebrated my son's birthday at this beautiful restaurant, and I can't express how delighted we were with the entire experience. The service was beyond exceptional. The manager, Demir, went above and beyond to ensure our comfort. He suggested rearranging our table to make our seating more comfortable, showing a level of attention and care that truly impressed us. Our waiter, Kate, was an absolute sweetheart. Her service was impeccable, and her warm and friendly demeanor added a special touch to the evening. She made sure that every aspect of our dining experience was top-notch. And food - it was an absolute delight. Even my usually picky 7-year-old who doesn't eat anything but chicken nuggets, couldn't resist the delicious offerings. He devoured everything on his plate and has been asking to return ever since!!! This restaurant truly exceeded our expectations in every way. If you're searching for a place that combines delectable food with impeccable service, look no further. Five stars without a doubt! read more

Jonathan, the kitchen manager at Philippe Chow in D.C., is nothing short of phenomenal! His dedication and hard work are evident in every dish that comes out of the kitchen. You can tell he takes immense pride in his craft, ensuring that every plate is executed to perfection. Not only is he an exceptional leader, but his attention to detail and commitment to quality set the standard for the entire team. Under his management, the kitchen runs seamlessly, and the food is always top-tier. His passion for excellence is reflected in every bite, making the dining experience at Philippe Chow truly unforgettable. Jonathan is the definition of a hardworking professional, and his impact on the restaurant is undeniable. Philippe Chow is lucky to have him, and so are the guests who get to enjoy the incredible food he helps create. Five stars all the way! Honestly, the restaurant runs because of Jonathan and I give him a million stars for that! read more

I chose this restaurant to celebrate my birthday, and I couldn't have made a better choice! From start to finish, the experience was fantastic. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was exciting, but what truly made the night unforgettable was the amazing staff. I feel that the vibe of this restaurant is unlike anywhere else in DC right now, fun yet cozy. Sadi and Sebastian went above and beyond to make my birthday dinner special. They were not only incredibly hospitable but also made the entire evening so much fun. Their attention to detail, friendliness, and genuine care turned a great meal into a truly memorable celebration. I can't wait to come back and have already recommended this place to so many groups in the past few weeks! If you're looking for a place with fantastic food and even better service, this is it. Thank you to the team, especially Sadi and Sebastian, for making my birthday a night to remember! read more

Stumbled upon a NY favorite here in DC at the Wharf. What a nice surprise. This restaurant is gorgeous. A bit more upscale in look than the other locations and of course, on the water. Big win for date night. Staff was amazing. from the door to the server(s) and their assistant team we were treated incredibly well. Servers were knowledgeable and super friendly. Food came out quickly and we were impressed with each course. The Duck and Cilantro dumplings were so tender and flavorful. The Calamari also beyond tender. We had the Peking Duck for the main and wow. It was tremendous. The desserts could use a bit of help as they seem like an every place type of dessert. I am not a fan of the Wharf restaurants but we definitely can't wait to come back here. read more

I celebrated my birthday at Philippe Chow, and it was truly unforgettable! From the moment I walked in, I felt so special. The atmosphere was elegant, and the service was top-notch. Sebastian, our server, was incredible. He made sure everything was perfect throughout the night and even surprised us with a few recommendations that turned out to be amazing! The manager, Saudi, really went the extra mile to ensure my birthday dinner was beyond what I could have imagined. His attention to detail and personal touch made the entire evening feel so special. Every moment felt catered and thoughtful, and I couldn't have asked for a better birthday celebration. I'll definitely be coming back to Philippe Chow for more special occasions! read more

I recently joined a friend to celebrate her birthday at Philippe Chow, and I can honestly say it was one of the best dining experiences I've ever had. The entire evening was flawless! From the moment we were seated, our server Sebastian made sure we were well taken care of. He was super attentive and made great suggestions for both drinks and dishes. The manager, Saudi, was also fantastic. He went out of his way to make sure the night was special for the birthday girl, checking in with us and even adding some extra surprises that made the celebration even better. The food, service, and atmosphere were all top-notch. If you're looking for a place that combines luxury with great hospitality, Philippe Chow is definitely it! read more

Philippe Chow offers a pleasant dining experience with its stylish atmosphere and attentive service. The ambiance is chic and inviting, making it a great spot for a night out. The service was top-notch, with friendly and efficient staff ensuring a smooth dining experience. However, while the setting and service were impressive, the food didn't quite live up to the hype. The dishes, though beautifully presented, lacked the depth of flavor I was expecting. It wasn't a bad meal by any means, but it didn't leave a lasting impression. Overall, Philippe Chow is worth a visit for its atmosphere and service, but the food might not be as memorable. read more

I'd like to start off with, I don't dine at the wharf because of the terrible parking options but I was in the area and decided to walk down by the water where I found Philippe. I was greeted by the manager and host. I was seated without a reservation and from beginning to end the service blew me away I wish I got the bussboys name because he was such a sweet heart the manager. Adonys and my serverDaniel really made this quick dinner into a five star experience. As recommended by the Manager have the spicy pepper mignon it does not disappoint. Places like this make the drive down here worth it. I'll be coming back to the wharf soon read more