If you like excellent food at reasonable prices and in a no fuss environment, then Donburi is for you. What I really like about Japanese food is the attention paid to every aspect of the dish, however simple it is. Donburi is one of those places where I enjoy watching the making of the food as much as the resulting plate of food.
Donburi is a common Japanese food – basically a rice bowl with meat, vegetables, sauce. The namesake restaurant is a small 14 seat space with an open kitchen, and everyone sits around the kitchen watching the deliciousness being made.
Every step of the cooking process is given meticulous attention, from cooking the meat, fish or vegetables, the caramelizing of the onions, putting the rice in, adding the sauce and the condiments. All in all, a mouthwatering experience even before you have even tasted the food! Of course, the food itself is delicious. I'm not Japanese, didn't grow up eating Japanese food, but I have to say this is definitely my comfort food in DC.
Given that they don't serve any alcohol but are in the heart of Adams Morgan, you can have a drink or two nearby while you wait for a spot to open up.
Find your way with 101 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Jolt 'n Bolt" in Washington DC has all-day breakfast that's cheffed up on sight and a great menu of smoothies, like the Mood Boost or Morning Detox.
by
"Bar Charley" in Washington DC is famous for its cocktails. Great creations - and the food is even better!
by
The menu hosts a bevy of dumplings and small plates, heavy on veg - we loved the eggplant-based buranee bademjan as well as the gulpee!
by
"Ambar" in Washington DC is a beloved bottomless brunch spot. It's my go-to birthday celebration spot and I always make a reservation a month in advance...
by
"Boundary Stone" is my go-to, no-reservation-needed brunch spot in Washington DC. My favorites are the Huevos Rancheros and the egg and chorizo sandwich...
by
As far as I'm concerned, "Taco City D.C." makes the best tacos I've had anywhere. The fact it's so close to my house is dangerous for my bank account...
by
"Miracle Theatre" in Washington DC is the oldest (second-run) movie theater in the city. They also host private events - I once performed theater there...
by
I love going to the gift shop of the "National Building Museum" - very reasonably priced items, Also, I like what they do on Saturday mornings...
by
"Eastern Market" in Washington DC just has everything, and on weekends, there's also an open-air market I visit for interesting and unique gifts.
by
"Sticky Rice" is honestly one of my top five favorite places to eat in DC. My go-to dish is the Drawn and Buttered sushi roll... Impossible not to like!
by
"Ala" is a beloved Turkish restaurant in Washington DC. Recently, they started offering bottomless brunch for great value! Also try the drinks...
by
101 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 101 Insider Tips