One underrated gem I found in 2024 was the Japanese food hall a few blocks from Union Station (in the same building as L’Ardente). It’s several restaurants/concepts in one: Love, Makoto (sushi); Beloved BBQ (Japanese-style BBQ; you cook it yourself; fun with a group); Hiya Izakaya (whisky bar/small plates); and Love on the Run (fast casual food hall, with lots of ramen & fabulous desserts).

I’ve gone to all of the different places at least once (and the whisky bar several times; you can actually eat a full meal there with all the small plates), and I always have a fabulous time. I’m a vegetarian too and still found lots of great stuff, even at the BBQ place. I don’t see a lot of people mentioning it so I thought I’d throw it a shout out!

Sea bass at Earl’s Kitchen by Tyson’s corner mall. The entire meal was amazing. I wasn’t expecting that.

None in this area

Anita's in ballston has margaritas. I didn't try one but they do have them. Possibly even happy hour specials on them, too.

Anonymous wrote:Anita's in Ballston. We prefer that particular one to their other locations.

Do they have margaritas?

Purple Patch. Never had Filipino food before. Amazingly delicious.

OP. Haven't tried any of the last three restaurants listed - happy to add to my list!

Imperfecto- tasting menu. Amazing!

Daru!

Anita's in Ballston. We prefer that particular one to their other locations.

Bumping to hear more favorites!

(OP) Haven't tried Melina or Copycat - will add them to my list!

I thought Rose's Lixury was just ok the last time I was there, but maybe I should give it another chance.

Melina at Pike and Rose

So agree about Albi! And I still haven’t been to Astoria but their sister restaurant Copy Cat is one of my favorites.

I’d add Rose’s Luxury to the list as a good place for a celebration or a group dinner.

What were your favorite restaurant meals in the DMV area that you ate in 2024? Bonus points for good decor and atmosphere.

Not exactly hidden gems, but mine were Albi and Astoria.

Albi - delicious flavors, nice setting, server was a bit robotic
Astoria - hip, laid back feel, good level of spice and tasty versions of Chinese classics