Arepitas from Serenata
There’s nothing better than an array of tasty tapas and a plate of paella. In celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month—Sept. 15 to Oct. 15—here are DC’s best restaurants for authentic Latin cuisine.
1. Del Mar
From authentic Spanish seafood to the vibrant atmosphere, Del Mar truly transports gourmands to the coasts of Spain. Order tapas to share (our favorites include the txangurro and huevos con cerdo y sidra), head to the raw bar, or pick from an array of rice dishes and seafood stews. 791 Wharf St. SW, 202.525.1402, delmardc.com
2. Xiquet DL
The most awarded paella chef in America, Danny Lledó, brings Valencian cuisine to the DC restaurant scene with five- and eight-course tasting menus. The clear statement piece of Xiquet is the glass-enclosed kitchen that allows diners to view the woodfire-cooking technique. 2404 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202.913.4671, xiquetdl.com
3. Jaleo
Plates at Jaleo are meant to be shared, so be sure to bring some friends for the tasty tapas and mouth-watering paellas. Chef José Andrés takes inspiration from the traditional dishes of his childhood, like paella Valenciana and patatas bravas, and reimagines them in creative ways with new flavors and combinations. 480 Seventh St. NW, 202.628.7949, jaleo.com
4. Nazca Mochica
The double-decker restaurant features a ceviche and pisco bar on the ground floor and a sleek dining room upstairs. Try the mochica cebiche or chaufa de quinoa for a new take on some Peruvian classics. 1633 P St. NW, 202.733.3170, nazcamochica.com
5. Colada Shop
Colada Shop delivers strong coffee, innovative cocktails and delectable small bites. The vibrant Cuban flavors, like in the savory and sweet pastelitos, complement the colorful and lively atmosphere perfectly. Multiple locations, coladashop.com
6. Serenata
Take a journey through Latin America with some unconventional cocktails, like Ciudad Paraiso or the frozen Nova Bossa. Located in La Cosecha, a contemporary Latin American market, Serenata offers delectable drinks, smoothies and dishes all day long. 1280 Fourth St. NE, 202.920.7373, serenatadc.com
Photography by: Rey Lopez
