Best Restaurants for Spicy Food in U Street Corridor

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSteakhouseSeafoodFrenchIndian

Regions

District of ColumbiaMaryland - DC SuburbsVirginia - DC Suburbs

Neighborhoods

Adams MorganAlexandriaArlingtonBethesdaCapitol HillChevy Chase

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

243 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Gypsy Kitchen - DC restaurant

1. Gypsy Kitchen - DC

4.6

Exceptional(1643)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Mediterranean • Logan Circle

Booked 71 times today

Just like the bohemian travelers who inspired our name, Gypsy Kitchen’s alluring flavors aren’t bound by borders. Instead, our chefs go wherever the inspiration takes them, crafting deeply creative dishes that transport you to uncharted places around the Mediterranean and beyond. A menu designed to taste and share gives guests the freedom to explore the menu at their own pace, connecting over seductive flavors, festive craft cocktails and curated regional wines. The alluring interior matches the menu, with welcoming dining spaces that foster connections and spark conversation. Antique tapestries and rugs, twinkling lights and vibrantly patterned tile set the scene in the expansive dining room. Or, take a seat on the rooftop patio oasis, where lush greenery, plush cushions and the sky overhead evokes the feeling of being on a caravan to explore a distant land.

A photo of Mi Vida, 14th Street restaurant

2. Mi Vida, 14th Street

4.6

Exceptional(438)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Logan Circle

Booked 28 times today

Chef Roberto Santibañez creates a menu inspired by Mexican street food and traditional home cooking of his country, but in a modern, elevated presentation. Guests can enjoy traditional dishes such as Carne Asada, a variety of Tacos, Seasonal Fish, Ceviches and other Contemporary Mexican creations. Mi Vida 14th Street features a weekly live DJ every Saturday Brunch 12pm - 4pm & Dinner 7 PM until close, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere for guests to enjoy

3. Sagrada

4.9

Exceptional(15)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • U Street Corridor

Booked 3 times today

SAGRADA – A Culinary Journey of the Psychedelic Mind by James Beard-nominated KNEAD Hospitality + Design.SAGRADA explores the transformative power of psilocybin—without its physical presence. For millennia, cultures have revered psychedelic mushrooms as sacred medicine, guiding healing, expansion, and self-discovery. Nowhere is this connection more profound than in Mexico, where these fungi are deeply woven into spiritual traditions. Creative Director & Facilitator Michael Reginbogin brings this legacy to life through Mexican cuisine, crafting each dish as a chapter in a psychedelic journey. Rooted in indigenous ingredients, ancient techniques, and modern innovation, our menu offers two paths: an eight-course plant-based menu or a flexitarian menu, primarily plant-based with select animal-sourced ingredients.

4. Baby Shank

4.2

Awesome(209)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• French American • Dupont Circle

Booked 8 times today

Welcome to Baby Shank Restaurant & Bar. Join us for our New Brunch Menu! Bring a friend or 2, or host a gathering of 300. We offer you a French-inspired menu, including Bavette Steak and Steamed Mussels, or our signature sushi rolls, including the award winning Fish & Chips. Enjoy it with our popular Jalisco Mule, made with Libelula Tequila. And top it all off with the classic Crème Brulé. News & Notes:Happy Hour is served Wednesday -Friday in the Bar & Rooftop Bar High TopsRooftop Garden - High tops are first come first serveBaby Shank's historic address was originally built by the National Capital Brewing Co in 1911. The original exposed brick, mansard roof, and arched windows set the mood for guests when they arrive. Warmly lit by chandeliers, the 2 story space has a modern, yet soothing historic feel. Host your next gathering with us. We have 4 spaces on 2 floors, including an upstairs lounge and rooftop garden. Contact us at Events@BabyShank.com for more info.

5. Sports & Social DC

4.4

Awesome(25)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Unspecified • U Street Corridor

Booked 4 times today

Sports & Social is DC's newest premier sports watching destination. This one-of-a-kind sports bar boasts a 25-foot LED media wall, and over a dozen HDTVs, it’s the next best thing to watching the game at the stadium. Sports & Social offers guests an elevated dining and beverage experience including made-from-scratch menu items and curated cocktails.

A photo of Lupo Verde - 14th St restaurant

6. Lupo Verde - 14th St

4.5

Awesome(1982)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Logan Circle

Booked 32 times today

Authentic, rustic, Italian fare featuring a variety of small plates, house-made charcuteries, breads, cheeses and antipasti. House-made pastas, whole roasted fish and a premiere selection of meats during dinner. A true Italian experience in an intimate two-story setting.Indoor dining is now available as of 1/22 at 25% capacity. Reservations are for indoor seating only. You may request patio seating, however it is on a first come first serve basis. Please be aware that there is a 90 minute maximum per table for parties less than 5 (*both inside & outside) unless otherwise approved by management. We are doing our best to accommodate as many guests as possible. We appreciate your business and understanding during this difficult time. In-House Delivery and Takeout UberEats, Postmates and Doordash

7. dLeña

4.7

Exceptional(2233)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Mount Vernon Square

Booked 64 times today

dLeña is a vibrant restaurant in Washington D.C. that invites you to explore the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine. Step into a warm space illuminated by wood-fired ovens and adorned with Latin American art. Savor a culinary journey with fresh, local ingredients, starting with their signature guacamole, a blend of avocado, tomato, onion, cilantro, and lime. Continue your adventure with ceviches, aguachiles, and wood-fired specialties like Tomahawk steak and Wagyu Steak a la Piedra. dLeña's menu caters to all tastes, featuring pescatarian, vegan, and vegetarian options. Pair your meal with an extensive selection of tequila and mezcal, or enjoy a handcrafted cocktail. Whether you're after a romantic dinner, a lively brunch, or a late-night gathering, dLeña's trendy ambiance and attentive service promise an unforgettable experience. Join them for a taste of Mexico's vibrant culture and culinary artistry.

8. Zaytinya - DC

4.7

Exceptional(19793)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mediterranean • Penn Quarter

Booked 376 times today

Under the direction of celebrated Chef José Andrés and his ThinkFoodGroup team, Zaytinya offers an innovative mezze menu inspired by Turkish, Greek and Lebanese cuisines served up in a sleek and modern setting. Building on José's deep knowledge of Mediterranean cooking and years of research and travel, the menu features shared small plates of authentic and innovative fare, creative cocktails, and unique Mediterranean wines, making Zaytinya one of the most exciting restaurants in Washington.

A photo of Caruso's Grocery - DC restaurant

9. Caruso's Grocery - DC

4.8

Exceptional(1275)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Capitol Hill

Booked 31 times today

Please note that we are not offering Restaurant Week at our DC location. Located at 914 14th Street SE in Washington, DC.Caruso’s Grocery is modeled after the classic, Italian-American "red sauce" joint. You know the one: red banquettes, a killer chicken parmesan, Sinatra pouring through the speakers. If you’re looking for modern interpretations of a chef's take on the classics, you won’t find them here. A joint venture from Neighborhood Restaurant Group and Partner Matthew Adler.

10. The Hamilton

4.7

Exceptional(12103)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Downtown

Booked 204 times today

The Hamilton, located in downtown Washington, DC, is a vibrant restaurant known for its diverse American cuisine and lively atmosphere. Showcasing an expansive menu that includes fresh seafood, savory steaks, and inventive sushi, it caters to a wide range of tastes. The Hamilton also features an impressive bar with handcrafted cocktails and an extensive wine list. With its spacious dining areas and a music venue hosting live music performances, The Hamilton offers a unique dining experience that blends culinary excellence with entertainment. Across the street from the Treasury building, the W Hotel, and the Willard Hotel.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

J
JoAnn
Washington, D.C. Area •7 reviews
4.0
Dined 3 days ago
We had good service and our waitress was very attentive. Great place to eat before a CAPS game.
More info
Mi Vida Penn QuarterPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Penn Quarter
•
4.6
L
Luz MarinaVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •27 reviews
5.0
Dined on Apr 30, 2025
we eat at Mala Tang every other month. always have a great dining experience.
More info
Mala TangPrice: Expensive• Asian• Arlington
•
4.3
T
Terri
Washington, D.C. Area •6 reviews
5.0
Dined on Apr 27, 2025
Beautiful to day to sit in the patio and enjoy fresh seafood.
More info
The Salt Line - Navy YardPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Navy Yard
•
4.5
S
SydneyVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •39 reviews
5.0
Dined on Apr 24, 2025
Wonderful as always! This is definitely a neighborhood gem!
More info
Bistro AracosiaPrice: Moderate• Afghan• Palisades Northwest
•
4.9
A
AmyVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •10 reviews
4.0
Dined on Apr 23, 2025
Beautiful experience - the server was helpful & made wonderful recommendations. The lighting & background music are ideal. We had a shared platter & enjoyed a top notch dinner. I highly recommend.
More info
EthiopicPrice: Moderate• Ethiopian• H Street Corridor
•
4.9

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