I went yesterday, ordered the fritters under the appetizers, they tasted like plain hush puppies! They should just advertise them as hush puppies. I got the old bay fries, those came out pipping hot, so they were good (you can't mess fries up). My cousin ordered the cabbage and rice and peas, came out room temperature,smh. And our waiter disappeared for a while, we were looking for him and we asked another waiter if he knew where our waiter was he told us of he went on his break!! How you do that without telling us. Then we ordered their rum cake, we waited and waited and waited, our waiter came and was like how is everything do y'all need anything else? We asked about our rum cake he said ohhhh let me go put that in I forgot, after we had waited for 15 mins. Would I go back, NO!!! read more

Went here with high hopes. Our server was occupied twerking by the bar because Gratuity is automatically included in the bill. Terrible service. The lamb chops were a little too sweet for my taste. My food came out cold..But the red snapper was great. 1/5 at best. read more

It's time to rally energy and enthusiasm to eat east of the river! You shall come hungry and leave satiated and happy! This restaurant is a mini excursion to Guyana with excellent service along the way. I had a Rasta pasta that was rich and taste and two drinks that definitely had a much needed kick. Outside of that, I was very impressed with the service and a personalized tour of the building which included access to the upstairs venue, which was very grown and sexy and applicable for small party vibes. You can tell that the chefs take their time to prepare the meal, not only to meet the needs of the culinary flavor, but to also satisfy the customer. I will come here again ! read more

Sapodilla’s - Rasta pasta and planters punch! - Caribbean Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

I went here for the first time with a friend for happy hour on a Friday. The atmosphere was nice and the place had a really great vibe. There was a DJ there that was playing Caribbean music who really also helped set the vibe. I started off with a rum punch, which was a part of the happy hour menu for $12. The drink was both delicious and refreshing. I also had two beef patties off of the happy hour menu which was also $12. I was able to choose two different beef patties, and I ended up choosing the chicken curry and the jamaican beef patties, which were absolutely amazing. For my entrée, I have the Branzino. I am not much of a fish person, but our waiter recommended the Branzino and said it was a 10 out of 10. I took his word for it, and he did not lie whatsoever. This was definitely one of the best dishes I have had and this is coming from someone who is not necessarily a fish person. The rice and the sauce that came with the dish only added more flavor and added to the overall dish. This was excellent! It also helps that this place validates parking as well. Overall, this was a great experience. I came here for some great food and great vibes and that's exactly what I got. read more

Sapodilla’s - Ginger Creole Branzino - Caribbean Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The food was delish! Very flavorful! The waiter was very friendly and welcoming I definitely plan to revisit soon.

My friend and I decided to meet for lunch and check out a new spot in the area. I've heard great reviews about Sapodilla's and decided to check it out. They opened at noon, we arrived around 1pm-- I was seated immediately! It wasn't busy at all. The aesthetics was super cute, the chairs were adorable, and the rustic brick made the look. The upstairs is giving lounge, comfort and chic!! Brock was our waiter and he was very personable. He is also the bartender and you can tell he made each drink with love! I can't remember the name of each drink, but everyone enjoyed it. He also made me a mocktail--it was a bit sweet, but overall it was tasty. He explained his favorite items on the menu and unfortunately the lunch menu is limited of course. I ordered the Rasta Pasta with shrimp, my friend ordered the stew chicken, and her sister ordered the jerk chicken sandwich. Every plate was clean at the end. I'm giving them a 4 because the lunch menu was limited for obvious reasons, so I would have to come back for dinner. We were informed about happy hour and brunch so I would love to try that as well. Overall I would recommend and I will definitely be back! read more

See all

Went to happy hr with my cousins who were in town for the weekend. Everything tasted great but the portions could've been a little larger. The oysters were the star of the show! Our waiter was nice and attentive. The decor and the overall vibe was a plus as well. I will definitely be back! read more

Sapodilla’s - Charbroiled Oysters and Jerk Wings - Caribbean Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

We visited after going to the Go-Go Museum. Perfect choice for caribbean food- Jamaican and Guyanese dishes. Close to the 4pm hour, brunch was still going on. No problem. There seemed to be a slight delay on food? Not sure or if I was just very hungry. At our table there were steak, eggs and potatoes, I had the shrimp and buss up shot, croiffles (my, my, my!), cabbage & rum cake. Everything was delicious and yummy. Food and drinks were made with love and divine. We left full and highly satisfied! The host, Carla, was very hospitable. Our waiter, Kerry, was delightful and had a good command of the menu. Brock stirred up some magic in our cocktails. The environment and the people I met and talked to were just lovely. Depending on the time of the day, the street parking may not be ideal, but there is parking a few blocks over, I was told. We were able to snag street parking. I'm so happy that Sapodillas made Anacostia home for their restaurant. They have a carry-out location in Ft. Washington, MD that I haven't visited. There is an upstairs dining area that looks perfect for a private event. It warmed this SE DC girl's heart to be able to patronize an establishment with pride. I'll definitely be back with some more friends. read more

I'm so glad I discovered this Caribbean restaurant as I was teleworking one Friday afternoon. Was looking for a happy hour that was near by and discovered this little gem in Anacostia. The drinks were nice! I was pleasantly surprised that they had a cocktail with the Haitian rum Barbacourt. I enjoyed the jerk oysters but what really did it for me was the oxtail! Super tender and flavorful! The service was wonderful really enjoyed my bartender. Also thought it was so cute in there. I'll be back for their all day Friday hour and will definitely check out upstairs. read more

A Place That Feels Like Home (With Amazing Food) My apologies for not writing this review months ago -- because this place absolutely deserves the praise. What a great find. A friend and I came in and grabbed seats at the bar and ended up staying for hours because the entire experience was just that good. We started with the codfish cakes (fritters) -- packed with flavor -- then moved on to the shrimp and grits with crab (which was phenomenal), along with the chicken & waffle croissant... and listen, if you want to try something new and unforgettable, order that. It was AMAZING. The wait staff was incredible: attentive, friendly, and never once made us feel rushed. We sat there laughing, talking, and enjoying ourselves, and the energy of the place just made everything better. At one point the owner even commented on how much she loves seeing best friends meet up, relax, laugh, and enjoy each other -- and how that's exactly the atmosphere she wants for her restaurant. Mission accomplished. Sapodilla's feels welcoming, comfortable, and full of good vibes. The only "downside" -- and this really isn't on them -- is parking, which is tough in that area. But trust me... it's worth the hunt. If you haven't been yet, GO. Come hungry, come relaxed, and be prepared to stay awhile. Sapodilla's is officially on my must-return. And the red snapper will definitely be my next go to! read more

A friend of mine decided to have his birthday celebration here. They served oxtail, salmon, rice& peas, and cabbage. The cabbage is absolutely delicious!!! read more

Oh this place was amazing! We sat upstairs, the food was spectacular! The service was amazing and the DJ really set the tone!

Amazing experience, great service, good music (not too loud), great cocktails and love the food. The owner even came by to greet us. Definitely my favorite dine in caribbean spot in the DMV right now. read more

Sapodilla’s - Chicken Rasta Pasta! - Caribbean Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Excellent food! The jerk oysters had an amazing flavor. The fried fish tasted like a chicken batter and had an incredible crunch. Macaroni and cheese has a good flavor. The oxtail stew was flavorful. read more

Sapodilla’s - Jerk Oyster - Caribbean Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

My family and i came here while visiting the DC area. We had a great experience! The staff were friendly and courteous. The food and drinks were excellent!! We had oxtails, curry goat, rasta pasta, steak, lobster pasta, and salmon with shrimp. Everything came out hot and was very tasty. We would highly recommend!! read more

See all

This is a cute little spot. The decor is sleek and modern. The wait staff and hosts were very friendly. The food....so good! I got the shrimp and chicken Rasta pasta and my girlfriend ordered the jerk chicken with rice & peas and cabbage. The Rasta pasta had the perfect amount of spice and the sauce was bomb. The jerk chicken was juicy, seasoned perfectly and the skin was crispy. We ordered the "They call me Mr. H" drink - it was refreshing. I wish I ordered another! Overall...we'd definitely return when stopping back in DC. read more

See all

Food, service and portions we're on point. Visited this spot the evening before I returned home from an out of town business trip. I was upset because I had left overs that I had to leave behind. read more

I always preview menus before I go to eat and I could almost taste the food just based on the menu and I was not disappointed! The food was amazing, the atmosphere was warm and the owner was a joy! I had Brussels, jerked wings and steak /eggs. The jerked butter on the steak blew me away! I enjoyed the DJ but it was a tad loud for the space and atmosphere. It's a space that makes you want to have conversation. I can't wait to visit again and share with others! read more

Nice quaint happy hour stop in Anacostia with tasty Jamaican bites and drinks to quench the pallet

As I close out the Virgo season I'd like to say I enjoyed this establishment from the warm greeting I received from the Hostess. Followed by the attentive Server who was helpful with menu selection. The food exceeded everything human expectation my palette could've predicted!!!! See my picture and you'll see we ordered half of the menu LITERALLY!!!!!!! Please do your self the courtesy of stopping by... Until next time DC read more

See all

I visited Sapodilla's today, so excited because I've heard good things about the food and service. It was a big disappointment. I ordered the ox tails with rice and cabbage. Ox tails a bit sweet, rice and cabbage very bland. The employees were not attentive at all. I will not be going back. read more

Ambience is nice. Service was sub par. Expect to wait 30 min for your appetizer and another for your entree. *Beware They will add a 20% gratuity to your card after you pay.* read more

Went in for a quick drink and had a wonderful time! The bartender gave us great recommendations, and we look forward to coming back soon.

I had high hopes for Sapodillas, but unfortunately, my experience didn't quite meet expectations. We had a reservation for 1:15 PM and arrived early at 1:00 PM. While we were seated promptly, our food didn't arrive until around 2:25 PM, which felt like an unusually long wait. I ordered the Shrimp & Crab with Seafood Nage and the Steak & Eggs with potatoes. For the grits, I specifically requested all toppings except the shrimp and crab on the side. However, the dish arrived with additional toppings I hadn't asked for. I also ordered my steak well done and my egg whites cooked brown (intentionally overcooked), with cheese. I clearly explained that I do not like wet eggs. When I raised the issue with the hostess, a woman came to the table and asked--in a rather dismissive tone--what I meant by "egg whites brown." I explained again, and she responded that she was a chef and had never heard of that request. She also failed to introduce herself until I asked, at which point she said, in a curt tone, "I'm the owner." The steak was pink despite my request for well done, and while she offered to recook it, the overall interaction felt unprofessional and uncomfortable. While the ambiance was pleasant and the initial service was courteous, the food execution and customer service left a lot to be desired. I hope the restaurant takes this feedback constructively, as the concept and menu have potential. -Kym read more

I came on a Friday. The waiter was friendly but the service was very bad. Poor actually! I waited an hour for bread, then my appetizer ran out without notice. Finally, my entree came out cold. When they said they would bring me a new plate they just stuck it in a microwave. Then a different appetizer came out way after my entree. I won't be back. read more

Sapodillas is an exquisite visit to the Caribbean without catching a plane. The ox tail was amazing. We went to brunch and definitely overstayed as we kept running into beautiful people and making connections. If you're hungry don't miss out as there portions are nice. You will want more as the chef knows how to make it just right read more

This place was definitely a Dimond in the rough the food was amazing the service was great the owner she comes out and ask if your ok I loved everything abt this place was great I will be back the drinks were definitely on point by Barry the bartender read more

Great service and very flavorful foods with large portion sizes, service was exceptional and everything was amazing!

Trash. Server Jordan was nasty and rude. I was so excited about visiting only to be let down. Asked for a Manager and was told one was not here. Shrimp undercooked. Oxtails tough. Drinks were okay. Left no desire to return. read more

Sapodilla’s - Caribbean Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

Visiting from South Florida , first stop on our trip and I'm so glad we made it a priority on our list ! The ambiance and vibe was telling of the service we would receive. Our waitress Jordan was patient and very attentive. The food was excellent! Authentic and full of flavor . Oysters ...10! DRINKS...10! The snapper was a treat! THE BEST RUM CAKE EVER IN MY LIFE !!!!!! Super friendly staff , clean establishment and overall great experience. Would and will recommend . Shoutout to Chef Sam for being so warm and personable. You guys have a gem ! read more

We came to Sapodilla's for my mother in laws birthday. The ambience was warm and inviting and the booth at the end of the bar was perfect for our party of 6. The bartenders Brock and Levar took amazing care of us and served us some of the best cocktails we've ever had. The drinks were definitely the highlight of the menu but the food was amazing as well! We will definitely return and would highly recommend!! read more

Excellent food, drinks, and service. Everything was perfect for me and when my mother had an issue with her dish, they were kind and understanding then took care of things for her. Lovely atmosphere and will definitely be back. read more

See all

We have been waiting for the opening of this restaurant in our neighborhood of the new "downtown Anacostia". Let me tell you...it did not disappoint. From the vibes and decor we could appreciate the attention to details. The service was super friendly and attentive. The food was full of flavor and just enough. No huge portions but packed with flavor. We left full!! For starters we had the heavy handed cocktails lol. (one was enough for me but I'm a lightweight for reference) cocktails were tasty and balanced (rum punch and specialty margaritas) We came during happy hour and enjoyed the fried shrimp basket nicely spiced and the lamb sliders were AMAZING!! We moved on to the dinner menu and order the Rasta pasta with shrimp and chicken and a side of roti. Priced fairly for the portion sizes. Didn't think we had enough room for dessert but I'm glad we tried...the rum cake was delicious. Warm and moist and rum flavor was not overpowering. Well balanced. The hostess and staff were super sweet and welcoming. Hope to make a regular return to this gem in Anacostia. read more

Sapodilla’s - Caribbean Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I so wish I could give this place 5 stars due to the atmophere and the friendliness of the owner and staff. For brunch they have a limited menu, literally 4 apps to choose from and 6 entrees. You would think with such a limited menu that the chef and kitchen staff would be constantly preparing and prepping these dishes as they are all the same things and its not like their was a full menu to choose from but no it took more than an hour for each of us (table of 5) to receive our food. My girlfriend ordered the goat roti and felt bad for me since my order (steak and potatoes) took more than an hour and everyone had finished eating by the time it arrived she let me share hers. The goat roti was nice and hearty. My steak and potatoes arrived and the steak was tough, lacked seasoned and the potatoes were cold. I threw it away. The service has to pick up here; no one will tolerate waiting for their food over an hour. We noticed a few patrons drink then leave due to the wait for their food. Many empty tables with no food. Will not return but glad I did visit. read more

Ive been twice and it was even better the second time!! I mean EVERY dish was absolutely delicious! Nice inside. Service was great! Parking is limited in the area so i suggest ubering. My mouth is watering now thinking about it. Cant wait to go back! read more

I really want my people (Black-owned/Caribbean/Ward 8) to thrive, but my experience at Sapodilla's has left me disappointed. While I've visited the location before for the opening and to inquire about their offerings, this -- a Friday afternoon at ~5:05p -- was the first time I was going in for a sit-down dining experience. Let's start with the menu...and the lack thereof! The website is setup to place Uber Eats and Door Dash orders, but the actual menu is still "coming soon". My friend and I had to call the get the HH specials and with that, all we were told was that items are $12.15. We arrived and there was a lively crowd and music playing. We were able to sit immediately at one of the remaining two tables downstairs, but that is where the customer service ended. We initially chose the table, but after 10 mins without getting as much a water, we moved to the bar where two seats and freed up (because I needed to charge my phone). While seated at the bar, we were never greeted by the bartender. Every drink order seems to go through him, so he was hustling pouring drinks. So much so that he was profusely sweating and wiping the droplets. At ~5:15p, since we still hadn't been acknowledged, I asked the manager how many oysters and shrimp came with their respective meals? She did not know and told us to ask the bartender. Yes, the same bartender that still hadn't even looked our way. At ~5:27p, we got up and walked towards the door. The manager and other employees were at the hostess stand and no one even bothered to ask why we were leaving. Smh. I live nearby, so I would love to try this food that the other reviewers are raving about (and update my review), but this was not a good experience. Hopefully customer service improves all around, so they can stick around the neighborhood! read more

I had the pleasure of dining there with friends, and the entire experience was nothing short of outstanding. The appetizers (jerk oysters and brussel sprouts were delicious), the branzino and lamb chops, and the rum cake will have you dreaming about them. This is a major hit all around! Worthy of another visit very soon! read more

This is an email I sent to the restaurant after dining there in March. Unfortunately, I never received a reply. It appears they only respond to positive feedback and aren't interested in constructive critiques. Greetings and welcome to Anacostia! We live in SE DC and are very happy you chose to bring your business to the neighborhood! After hearing about your restaurant from two friends, my husband and I were excited to check out the new addition to Anacostia! We feel strongly about supporting Black-owned businesses and love to see them thrive. In that spirit, I hope you're open to my feedback. #1. There wasn't a hostess at the stand when we walked in, which was perfectly fine, but when she did emerge she wasn't smiling (or friendly) and merely asked "can I help you?" Not "Hello, how many in your party"...or "Welcome to Sapodillas!". It didn't feel welcoming. #2. We decided to sit at the bar and were seated for a good while before we got service or were even acknowledged. In fact, the bartender passed us a few times and it wasn't until WE asked for a drink that we got service. We watched as he made drinks, tinkered at register, washed glasses, etc. This pattern continued. It was as if he was waiting on us to signal that we needed him rather than the other way around. We're accustomed to hospitality - hello, I'll be right with you; hello, give me a minute; something. #3. I had one cocktail and a glass of water. Once our water glasses were empty, they remained empty for the duration. Bartender never refilled our water or asked if I wanted another cocktail. I did. Actually would've order 2 more if service was better. #4. The food. I ordered light. Kale Caesar Salad w/side of plantains. Order took awhile. This isn't an automatic deal breaker so long as it isn't a pattern. I understand teams can be short staffed at times. However, when my salad came out it was missing a KEY ingredient to a Caesar. I asked bartender about the missing Parmesan cheese. He had no clue. Said he'd check but walked away and tended to another customer. I asked a woman and she said she'd check. She returned with Parmesan cheese, but not the shaved kind that's listed on menu. It was the kind you sprinkle on pizza. I asked her when she came back about the shaved and she said the chef was out of the shaved. So...the chef sent out a Caesar Salad KNOWING it was missing the parm and hoped I wouldn't notice or thought I'd be okay with a a big plate of kale? Needless to say I was disappointed, but not as disappointed as when I returned it asking the bartender to take it off our ticket, in the presence of the who I later learned was the owner. She observed and didn't bother to inquire about my dissatisfaction OR apologize for the modified salad. I found that surprising. Normally, customer satisfaction is a high priority in the restaurant biz and I hope that is the case at Sapodillas. We will be back, of course, because you're in our community and we want you to succeed. However, we won't keep coming back to a place that fails to provide good customer service. read more

Visiting DC and this was close to our air bnb and sounds good. FABULOUS choice! The food was amazing- everything we ordered was yummy. We had the lamb sliders and bbq wings for an appetizer. And the jerk lamb chops and Rasta pasta for an entree. Service was very friendly- the owner Samantha was so sweet to our kids and went to the trouble of finding some paper and markers for them to color. The ambiance was nice and friendly, though the music was a little loud for my taste. Highly recommend you stop here if you're looking for a delicious meal. read more

The food is spicy and delicious. The ambience is spacious and minimalist. I had the Rasta Pasta. It was really good.