Introduction
Spent the day marveling at pandas, gorillas, and sloths? You’ve probably worked up an appetite, and those zoo pretzels just aren’t going to cut it! But where to eat near the National Zoo? Figuring out the best dining options around the National Zoo in Washington DC can be a bit of a safari itself. While the zoo is an amazing place to explore, its immediate vicinity isn’t exactly known for its abundance of fantastic restaurants. Don’t despair! Delicious and diverse culinary experiences are within easy reach.
This article highlights a range of palatable and convenient dining options just a short distance from the National Zoo, catering to different tastes, budgets, and dietary needs. Forget the underwhelming theme park food; prepare to embark on a mini-foodie adventure after your animal encounters. From quick bites perfect for families on the go to more relaxed sit-down meals, and, of course, delightful dessert destinations, we’ve got you covered for the best food near the DC Zoo.
Casual and Quick Bites: Family-Friendly Fuel
After a long day of walking around the zoo, sometimes all you need is something fast, affordable, and satisfying. Luckily, there are several great casual dining options near the National Zoo to keep you and your family energized.
&pizza: Pizza Your Way
Just a short walk from the zoo’s Connecticut Avenue entrance, you’ll find &pizza, a modern pizza chain that allows you to customize your pie from crust to toppings. This is an excellent choice for families with picky eaters, as everyone can create their perfect pizza. They offer a wide variety of sauces, cheeses, meats, and vegetables, including vegan options. The service is quick and efficient, and the atmosphere is casual and vibrant.
Why it’s good: The customizable pizzas cater to all tastes, the service is lightning-fast, and it’s exceptionally kid-friendly. Plus, the modern, hip atmosphere is a welcome change from the often-crowded zoo environment.
Price Range: Affordable.
Address/Website: Search “&pizza” online to find the nearest location and view the menu.
Open City: Classic Diner Comfort
For a taste of classic American comfort food, Open City is a solid option. Located within a charming bookstore, this diner serves breakfast all day, along with sandwiches, burgers, and other diner staples. It’s a great place to refuel with hearty portions and friendly service.
Why it’s good: The pancakes are legendary, the coffee is strong, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Open City is a great choice for a relaxed and satisfying meal. They can handle large groups and offer items kids will love.
Price Range: Moderate.
Address/Website: Search “Open City DC” online to find the exact location and menu.
Mamma’s Kitchen: Ethiopian Flavor
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous and still want a casual setting, Mamma’s Kitchen is a wonderful choice. This Ethiopian restaurant offers a unique blend of traditional Ethiopian dishes and American cuisine, making it a perfect pick for groups with varied palates. Experience rich stews, flavorful vegetarian options, and fresh, homemade injera bread.
Why it’s good: It’s affordable, it’s delicious, and it offers a cultural experience in addition to a meal. It’s a great way to introduce kids to new flavors and support a local business.
Price Range: Very affordable.
Address/Website: Search “Mamma’s Kitchen DC” to locate the restaurant and view menus.
Sit-Down Restaurants: Relax and Recharge
For those seeking a more leisurely dining experience after their zoo visit, the areas surrounding the National Zoo offer a variety of sit-down restaurants where you can relax and savor a delicious meal.
Lebanese Taverna: A Taste of the Mediterranean
Lebanese Taverna offers an authentic and flavorful taste of Lebanon. With a variety of flavorful mezes (small plates), grilled meats, and vegetarian options, this restaurant is perfect for sharing and exploring different tastes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the service is attentive.
Why it’s good: The mezes allow you to sample a variety of Lebanese dishes, the grilled meats are perfectly cooked, and the vegetarian options are plentiful and delicious. It’s a great choice for groups and offers a more sophisticated dining experience. Plus, many ingredients are fresh and locally sourced.
Price Range: Moderate to Expensive.
Address/Website: Search “Lebanese Taverna DC” for locations and menus.
Medium Rare: Steak Frites Simplicity
If you’re craving a satisfying and straightforward meal, Medium Rare is the place to go. This restaurant offers a fixed menu consisting of perfectly cooked steak, crispy french fries, and a simple salad. It’s a no-fuss, no-frills dining experience that delivers consistently delicious results.
Why it’s good: The steak is tender and flavorful, the fries are perfectly salted, and the salad is a refreshing complement to the richness of the meat. The fixed menu makes ordering easy, and the price is reasonable.
Price Range: Moderate.
Address/Website: Search “Medium Rare DC” to find locations.
Dessert and Treats: Sweet Endings
No trip to the zoo is complete without a sweet treat! Fortunately, there are several excellent dessert destinations near the National Zoo to satisfy your cravings.
Little Sesame: Beyond Hummus, Delicious Tahini Soft Serve
While primarily a hummus shop, Little Sesame offers a delightful surprise for dessert lovers: Tahini Soft Serve. This creamy, nutty treat is a unique and refreshing alternative to traditional ice cream. It’s a perfect way to end your zoo adventure on a sweet note.
Why it’s good: It’s a unique and flavorful dessert that you won’t find anywhere else. The tahini flavor is subtle and complex, and the texture is incredibly smooth and creamy.
Price Range: Affordable.
Address/Website: Search “Little Sesame DC” to confirm location.
Ice Cream Jubilee: Exotic Flavors and Sweet Fun
Ice Cream Jubilee is a boutique ice cream shop known for its creative and exotic flavors. From Thai Iced Tea to Honey Lavender, you’ll find a flavor to tantalize your taste buds. They also offer classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate for those who prefer something more traditional.
Why it’s good: The unique flavors are a fun and exciting way to explore new tastes, and the ice cream is made with high-quality ingredients. It’s a perfect treat for both kids and adults.
Price Range: Moderate.
Address/Website: Search “Ice Cream Jubilee DC” for locations and menu.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Restaurant
With so many tempting choices for food near DC Zoo, here are a few tips to help you make the perfect decision:
Distance Matters: Don’t underestimate the importance of distance. After a full day of walking around the zoo, even a five-minute walk can feel like a marathon. Check the location of each restaurant on a map and factor in walking time. Rideshare services are always an option for reducing transit time.
Check Those Hours: Nothing is worse than arriving at a restaurant only to find it closed. Always check the restaurant’s hours of operation, especially on weekends and holidays. Many establishments around the zoo have reduced hours.
Read the Reviews: Take a few minutes to read online reviews (Yelp, Google Reviews, etc.) before making your decision. This can give you valuable insights into the restaurant’s service, food quality, and overall atmosphere. Pay attention to recent reviews to get the most up-to-date information.
Reservations Recommended: For sit-down restaurants, especially those popular for dinner, making reservations is highly recommended, particularly during peak season or on weekends. This will help you avoid long waits and ensure that you get a table.
Dietary Considerations: Check restaurant menus online for information about allergens or dietary restrictions. If you have specific concerns, call the restaurant in advance to inquire about their ability to accommodate your needs. Many restaurants near the zoo cater to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
Kid-Friendly Factors: If you’re traveling with children, look for restaurants with kids’ menus or that are known to be family-friendly. Check if they have high chairs, booster seats, and other amenities that will make your dining experience more comfortable.
A Delicious Conclusion to Your Zoo Adventure
Exploring the National Zoo is a fantastic experience, and the culinary options nearby can elevate your visit even further. From quick and casual bites to relaxed sit-down meals and delightful desserts, there’s something for everyone near the National Zoo. Don’t settle for mediocre theme park fare when a world of delicious food near DC Zoo is just a short walk away.
Next time you’re planning a trip to see the animals, take a little extra time to research the nearby food options. By considering your budget, tastes, and dietary needs, you can find the perfect restaurant to complement your zoo adventure. So next time you’re at the National Zoo, don’t settle for the usual – venture out and discover the delicious food waiting just around the corner! A memorable day at the zoo combined with a great meal – what could be better? Happy exploring, and happy eating!
