Delish Dishes: TheListAreYouOnIt’s Weekly Roundup of Things to Eat

April is here—and with it, the full bloom of spring. The chill of winter has finally thawed, making way for bright, fresh flavors and seasonal creativity across DC’s dining scene. Vibrant produce means local chefs are embracing the bounty of the season in unexpected and delicious ways. At TheListAreYouOnIt.com, we’re spotlighting the dishes that capture this moment of renewal. Ready to savor spring?

MARK YOUR CALENDAR: 

Built for Speed: Speed Rack:  Speed Rack, the world’s first and only international all-women and femme bartending competition, announces its 13th season in the United States, beginning January 2025. Founded by spirits industry veterans Lynnette Marrero and Ivy Mix, Speed Rack aims to highlight leading female-identifying bartenders across the globe, with 100% of proceeds going directly to breast cancer education, prevention, and research. The organization has raised over $1.75 million dollars in the fight against breast cancer since inception, with a goal of breaking $2 million during Season 13. 

CHIKO x Alfreda Collab: Chefs Scott Drewno of CHĪKO and Russell Smith of Alfreda — who've been friends since working together at The Source over a decade ago — are teaming up for a P Street collaboration blending their signature styles for two creative mash-up dishes. On deck: At Alfreda, CHĪKO’s pork and kimchi filling meets Alfreda’s dough in a “Blooming Pie,” and at CHĪKO, an Alfreda’s pizza-inspired egg roll with pepperoni featuring a side of house-made kimchi marinara. The pro move? Guests should hit both spots — ordering Pizza Egg Rolls ($15) from CHĪKO and then head to Alfreda for a Blooming Pie ($15) where they will be treated to a free spritz to celebrate the neighborhood collab. 

Beer, Bourbon, and BBQ NOVA: Northern Virginia’s  Biggest, Baddest, Bone-In BBQ Fest is back and ready for more at the same great  location as last year...the Prince William County Fairgrounds in Manassas, VA!  Easily accessible from Maryland, Virginia and DC. This 4th Annual affair offers up all those pleasures that true Southerners live by - Beer, Bourbon, Barbeque, Boots, Bacon, Biscuits, Bluegrass and Smoked Beasts! May 3, 2025 – Prince William Co. Fairgrounds, Manassas, VA 20112. nova.beerandbourbon.com

NKOTB aka New Kitchens on the Block: New Kitchens On The Block returns to Mess Hall on Saturday, April 26. The eleventh edition of long-running food festival offers a onetime-only opportunity to savor signature dishes and drinks from 8 of DC’s most hyped new restaurants by the city’s buzziest, award-winningest chefs – before they open.  703 Edgewood St. NE; messhalldc.com

Tour del Taco in the DMV: This March, DMV residents are invited to participate in Tour Del Taco, a month-long campaign encouraging food lovers to explore local taco and pupusa restaurants, support the community, and compete for the ultimate title of DC’s “Taconnoisseur.” From March 1 to March 31, Tour del Taco participants will earn points by visiting taco and pupusa restaurants across the District. Taconnoisseurs will be crowned at an exclusive Tour del Taco Awards Party following this month-long promotional event. districtbridges.org

NEW & NOTEWORTHY: 

Spring Scoops:  Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is unveiling its highly anticipated Spring Collection, designed to whisk you away to a whimsical, sun-drenched oasis with every scoop. Try the Raspberry Rhubarb Delight: Sweet tart raspberry-rhubarb jam ribboned through coriander sweet cream, Citrus Glazed Pound Cake: Yuzu ice cream with vanilla pound cake and a lemon icing glaze. Bright and comforting or the Tropical Bloom: Citrusy mandarin, refreshing kiwi, and punchy passion fruit. jenis.com

The Occidental Returns: The Occidental now has a new brunch and lunch service. Try dishes like the Poached Eggs with Truffle, with mushroom veloute and sourdough, Caramelized French Toast with blueberries and soft chantilly cream, and a hearty Steak & Eggs with NY strip. 1475 Pennsylvania Avenue NW; theoccidentaldc.com

Korean Culture in Dupont: At Onggi, the ancient art of fermentation—for which the restaurant is named after traditional Korean earthenware vessels—meets contemporary sensibilities in a space where every element speaks of connection, preservation, and the nurturing spirit of Jeong. The dining experience unfolds like a choreographed dance of flavors, beginning with a ceremonial tea cleanse and squash porridge dusted with flower powder. This prepares diners for the vibrant exploration ahead, where bright house-made kimchi balances complex pepper-accented specialties. Each creation represents a region, custom, or season—presented with reverence yet reimagined through Onggi's distinctive lens.  2100 P St NW, Washington, DC 20037; onggidc.com

New in Bethesda: Pisco and Nazaca has recently opened in Bethesda. Pisco y Nazca Bethesda is hosting an extended happy hour today, March 24. From 4:00 PM until close, guests can enjoy: $3 off all beers, $9 specialty cocktails, $8 house liquors, $9 house martinis, and $7 sangrias ($28 pitchers). Known for its lively atmosphere, innovative cocktails and signature dishes like Ceviche Tradicional, Lomo Saltado, and Chaufa, Pisco y Nazca is committed to fresh ingredients and vibrant, bold flavors. The new Bethesda location, led by Chef Aldo Verastegui, a native of Lima, Peru, continues this tradition by creating an inviting space that blends contemporary design with traditional Peruvian decor. 7401 Woodmont Ave; piscoynazca.com

Mezze in the Morning (Brunch Alert): Namak has a new brunch menu. Notable new dishes include the Pistachio Cinnamon Roll, a crossover of the classic American breakfast pastry with baklava, complete with a cinnamon-pistachio filling and labneh frosting. On the savory side, guests can enjoy vegetarian dishes like the Green Shakshuka (spinach, swiss chard, cilantro, mint, dill, fenugreek, served with a farm egg and pita) or the Smoked Troutwith sumac, tomatoes, and pickled shallots served on toasted brioche. 1813 Columbia Rd NW; resy.com

Mediterranean Mornings (Brunch Alert): Escape to the Mediterranean with a cozy, flavorful brunch at Iron Gate. Indulge in dishes like the IG Breakfast Sandwich with a buttery sourdough biscuit and pancetta, the decadent Bread Pudding French Toast  topped with maple apples and almond crumble, or the savory Hearth Baked Hen Eggs with sauce puttanesca and grilled focaccia. 1734 N Street NW, Washington, D.C.; irongaterestaurantdc.com

Southern Living (Brunch Alert): Mallard's brunch is a celebration of Southern flavors with a refined twist. Indulge in dishes like the Deviled Crab “Benny” with Old Bay hollandaise, Buttermilk Fried Oysters with deviled egg aioli, and Shrimp & Grits with smoked pork and piquillo pepper. Sweet tooth? Try the Cornmeal Pancakes with bourbon maple syrup and whipped buttermilk ricotta. Complement your meal with a Mallard Mimosa, Mallard Mary, or a Hard Start—our bold take on a brunch cocktail. 1337 14th Street NW, Washington, D.C.; mallarddc.com

First Lady Approved (Brunch Alert): Jackie has a new brunch. Enjoy signature dishes like the Banana Foster Belgian Waffle ($19), the elegant Jackie Benedict with salmon caviar, or the hearty Steak & Eggs featuring a 10 oz Angus beef filet. For a comforting favorite, try the Crispy Chicken & Waffle with hot honey  or the Cavatelli Carbonara with pork guanciale and pecorino cheese. 79 Potomac Ave SE, Washington DC; jackiedc.com

Rowdy, Bollywood Style: Tapori, which will celebrate Indian Street Food with the power to bridge communities through culinary prowess with regional dishes and cocktails from their native homeland has recently opened from Dante Datta and Chef Suresh Sundas. You can expect dishes like innovative street food such as Pani Puri, Vada Pav and Dosas, as well as recipes inspired from Chef Suresh’s single mom where he grew up in the impoverished rural village of the Pathari village of the Morang district in Nepal. Cocktails include an “Indianish” take on the classic Junglebird; and ingredients that include indigenous spices and fruits like chaat masala, jackfruit puree, kashmiri chili and hibiscus. 600 H street; taporidc.com

Viva Abejas: Viva Abejas is back this spring at dLena. From Tuesday, March 25, through Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22, guests are invited to indulge in bee-centric dishes and drinks at the modern Mexican concept. 476 K Street; dlena.com

Picnic Weather: Hanami is a Japanese word that describes a favorite springtime activity—the viewing of cherry blossoms, often while having a picnic. Maktoto’s Hanami Picnic is the perfect way to slow down and enjoy the concept of Hanami right here in D.C. (And if you’re planning to propose under the blossoms, we’ll provide the sushi and heart-shaped donuts; you pack the picnic blanket and the ring. What could be more romantic?) The Hanami Picnic can be ordered for pick-up or here. 

A Lunch of Convenience (Lunch Alert): The Mala Tang Biàndāng Lunch Box features three pre-fixe dishes and rice, served bento box style for $15. The term bento is derived from the Chinese term biandang (便當, pinyin: biàndāng), which means "convenient."The pre-fix menu will change daily but may include: Sweet & Sour Pork Ribs, Sichuan String Beans. MalaTang.com

Lebanon+Mexico=Delicioso: Vera Cocina is a restaurant that showcases Lebanese Mexican food. This unique concept pays homage to the historical migration of Lebanese people to Veracruz, Mexico in the late 19th century, which is reflected in carefully curated design, as well as in every dish and drink. VeraDC.com

Chef Update: Shannan Troncoso at Denizen’s Brewing Co.: Denizens has a new food program with award-winning Chef Shannan Troncoso at the helm as Executive Chef. Chef Troncoso joins Denizens with more than 20 years in the restaurant industry and after a decade of operating her own critically acclaimed Washington, DC neighborhood restaurant, Brookland’s Finest. 4550 Van Buren St; denizensbrewingco.com

Nothing Accidental about The Occidental: The Occidental is back open. The Occidental’s menu is uniquely focused on reviving classic American fare for a new generation of diners. Think: Shrimp Louis, a bright, citrusy turn-of-the-century salad hailing from San Francisco, updated here with iceberg lettuce and housemade remoulade; Lobster Newberg, a cognac-and-cream laced lobster, popularized more than a century ago by New York’s legendary Delmonico’s; and Pheasant Under Glass, which returns to its place as the height of haute cuisine at the Occidental, paired with seared foie gras and jus. 1475 Pennsylvania Ave; theoccidentaldc.com

Lovely Lunching (Lunch Alert): Nobu is now open for lunch. The new menu features a selection of Shoku (snacks) and Nobu Tacos (including tuna, salmon, lobster, wagyu, and more) alongside an array of Nobu classics (Yellowtail Jalapeno, Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna, Rock Shrimp Tempura, Black Cod Miso), and a la carte Nigiri, Sashimi and Maki options. For $40, guests can opt for a Hot Bento (Rock Shrimp Tempura; Black Cod Miso Vegetable Spicy Garlic Donburi) or Cold Bento box (Tuna Sashimi Salad; Salmon, Tuna, Whitefish, Shrimp Nigiri; Yellowtail Jalapeno Roll) lunch, both of which come with Miso Soup. Finally, for those looking to luxuriate in a midday meal, Nobu's Japanese A5 Wagyu Miyazaki Prefecture menu will also be available during lunch service. Lunch is available Monday through Friday from 11:45 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., and a limited menu is available for takeout. noburestaurants.com

NOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY: 

Hi/Fi BBQ: From the mind of Chef Nathan Anda (Red Apron, Hi/Fi Tacoshop), Hi/Fi is a brick & mortar love letter to classic Tex-Mex and soulful Southern BBQ. We’re talking smoked meats done right – Texas brisket, Carolina-style pork, and more – all slow-cooked to perfection over a mix of offset and reverse flow smokers. Then, we take it up a notch, folding those flavors into tacos, nachos, and Tex-Mex-inspired creations. 8298 Glass Alley; Hi/Fi.com

Taste of Spain: Arrels has a new six-course tasting menu. Priced at $85 per person, with a vegetarian option for $75, this menu offers an exquisite culinary experience showcasing innovative flavors inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. Highlights include a savory "Esqueixada" with torched tuna and a rich squid ink fideuà. Dessert lovers will also savor the goat milk chocolate crèmeux with strawberry sorbet. 333 G Street NW, Washington, DC 20001; Arrels.com

Mmm…akase: Chef Update: Bar Japonais, a French-Japanese fusion restaurant on 14th Street, announces the appointment of Michelin-starred chef Masaaki "Uchi" Uchino as the restaurant's new executive chef along with the addition of Omakase to their menu. The new 15 course offering will feature a rotating selection of exceptional seasonal ingredients. The inaugural Omakase menu is a tribute to spring and the beloved Cherry Blossom season in DC. Guests will enjoy a meticulously curated selection of seasonal delicacies, including spring sea bream, cherry blossom-steamed sushi firefly squid and cherry salmon. 1520 14th street; barjaponaisdc.com

Farmers Found in Alexandria: Founding Farmers is opening a new location in Alexandria, VA. Founding Farmers Alexandria will offer an inviting and vibrant dining experience to the Potomac Yard neighborhood.The new location features an expansive, American-inspired menu with rotisserie chicken, fried chicken & waffles, farmhouse sushi, fresh salads and sandwiches, homemade pastas, premium seafood, steaks, seasonal sides, and more. And let's not forget the indulgent desserts, including scratch-made cakes, pies, house-churned ice cream. 461 Swann Avenue; wearefoundingfarmers.com

Oui! Mon Ami Gabi:  Mon Ami Gabi in Bethesda has reopened at 7239 Woodmont Avenue, offering refreshed, expanded dining spaces and menu offerings at the “bistro classique.” Led by Executive Chefs Jason Mayle and Andrew Fleischauer, Mon Ami Gabi - Bethesda’s menu of French classics returns, including favorites like Steak Frites, Onion Soup Au Gratin and Escargots. A curated selection of new salads and sandwiches will join the lunch menu, along with several new brunch dishes, such as Truffled Scrambled Eggs and a Classic French Omelet. 

Six at Centrolina: Experience 6x James Beard nominee Chef Amy Brandwein's new 6-course dinner tasting menu with optional wine pairing in Centrolina's private Chef's Salon. Chef Amy's menu celebrates her mantra “simple is exquisite," showcasing the seasonal bounty of the Mid-Atlantic region and the versatility, grace, and overall delicacy of Italian cuisine. Each dish weaves Italian and global cuisine, creating an interesting dialogue of food and wine inspired by specific ingredients, concepts, and experiences. The tasting menu changes weekly and is available on Thursday and Friday. Limited seating available. Dinner is $175/person with an optional wine pairing for $125/person. 974 Palmer Alley, centrolinadc.com

Join Us at the Bar (Brunch Alert): Taste the flavors of Lebanon, Italy and Spain with River Club’s new prix-fixe 3-course brunch menu available at The Bar at River Club. Menu highlights include whipped labneh fruit brulee with raspberries, figs, pistachio crumble; Lebanese Breakfast with two eggs cooked sunny side up,  ground lamb, labne, tomato salad, pickles, and churros for the table! Pair your meal with an options cocktail bundle trio for $20! Select from a garibaldi, seasonal bellini, espresso martini and more. 3000 K St. NW, Washington, DC 20007; riverclubdc.com