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Ambar - Shaw, Washington, DC

Ambar - Shaw

4.6
4.6
174 Reviews
$31 to $50
Balkan style
Top Tags:
Welcome to Ambar, the gem of Shaw, where you are invited to explore the dynamic flavors of Balkan cuisine. What distinguishes us, is our well-curated, exclusive 'Dining Without Limits' experience, which brings you the soul of Balkan dining traditions. Our extensive menu boasts a variety of shareable small plates, perfectly paired with a vast selection of premium Balkan wines. Whether joining us for a leisurely lunch, celebratory weekend brunch, or an evening of indulgence, our unlimited dining menu promises to deliver an unparalleled culinary journey. We excel in serving individual guests, as well as larger groups, and private events. At Ambar, our custom catering services add that extra sparkle to your events. At Ambar, we are revolutionizing dining with inventive Balkan cuisine that blends tradition and innovation, seamlessly. We ensure an unforgettable gastronomic experience with award-winning, extraordinary hospitality. Step into Ambar, the pinnacle of Balkan dining.

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 58 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Cuisines
    Balkan style, Modern European, Eastern European
  • Hours of operation
    Unlimited Brunch Sat, Sun 10:00 am–3:30 pm Unlimited Lunch Mon–Fri 12:00 pm–3:30 pm Happy Hour Mon, Tue 12:00 pm–10:00 pm Wed–Fri 4:00 pm–7:00 pm Unlimited Dinner Mon–Thu 4:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri 4:00 pm–11:30 pm Sat 4:30 pm–11:30 pm Sun 4:30 pm–10:00 pm Late Night Fri, Sat 11:30 pm–12:00 am
  • Phone number
    1202478228
  • Website
    https://www.ambarrestaurant.com/
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Executive chef
    Nikola Stefanovic
  • Catering
    Whether you are socializing with your coworkers or entertaining your friends and family at home, Ambar Catering will always be fresh and always delicious.
  • Private party facilities
    Ambar is the perfect place for all types of private and corporate events. With beautiful design perfect for event space- exceptional food and drinks and our professionally trained staff, Ambar is the place of choice when it comes to your celebration.
  • Location
    1547 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20001-3201
  • Neighborhood
    Shaw
  • Parking details
    Street Parking
  • Public transit
    Two blocks from the Shaw-Howard University Metro station accessible on the yellow and green lines.<br />
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 174 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.6
4.6 based on recent ratings
  • 4.5Food
  • 4.5Service
  • 4.7Ambience
  • 4.5Value

Noise • Moderate

174 Reviews

  1. DavidS

    Washington DC

    10 reviews

    3.0

    10 reviews

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall3food5service3ambience3
    Very lively environment! A little too loud to have a civilized conversation with several loud birthday parties around us but that's Sunday Funday! Food was amazing as always but the service was not very consistent and I had to ask for some dishes I ordered more than once. Mimosa refills were not consistent and I get the sense this restaurant doesn't really care because there is a line out the door and "take it or leave it." That may work when still new but won't keep me coming back.

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  2. BlenG

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food was incredible, per usual. The service was great too! The manager Pete is very kind and funny. It was a wonderful experience

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  3. Maryellen

    Washington DC

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Wonderful first visit! Looking forward to next time!

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  4. KristinF

    Seattle

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I feel like we tried nearly everything, and it was amazing!

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  5. HildaW

    Washington DC

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great service from the moment we entered till we left. No where else beats the cost for unlimited, flavorful food with an unlimited drink option for that price in DC. They also have an allergy menu, which is very considerate. And if this is important to you, they don’t add an automatic 20% surcharge!

    Is this helpful?

  6. CassieG

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 24, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We'd visited the Clarendon location years ago for dinner and had fond memories, so going to the Shaw location for brunch was a real treat. Food was just as good as we remembered, with a nice mixture of 'American' classics and Balkan cuisine (our preferred experience). The place itself is well appointed, the music selection is so fun, and the price is quite reasonable for what you are able to enjoy. Shoutout to our server, Bojana, who was from Serbia and took such great care of us. So impressed! Thank you, Ambar!

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  7. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    1.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 23, 2023

    overall1food1service5ambience5
    The normal dinner menu has a number of food options for pescatarians — the brunch menu (at best) has vegetarian options. I’ve been to Ambar Shaw and Ambar Capitol multiple times — and even to Ambar Belgrade. I love the restaurant for dinner. Brunch was disappointing.

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  8. SoooooGood

    Washington DC

    28 reviews

    5.0

    28 reviews

    Dined on September 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great selection even for my vegan friend. Awesome to try everything and lovely space for brunch with friends.

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  9. Catherine

    Washington DC

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    First time there and what a wonderful discovery! Can't wait to go back.

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  10. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    16 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    16 reviews

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Such a great brunch experience! I love the idea unlimited tapas. Everything I had was amazing! Our server was amazing and gave great service. She made the experience even more fun. I can’t wait to come back.

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  11. Samphan

    Washington DC

    14 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on September 11, 2023

    overall4food3service5ambience5
    These high rating were for the server who was busing all the tables on the upper level minus the bar. Your server to staff ratios needs some revision. She stayed calm. Attentive. Listened and smiled. Your efficiency model needs some revision. Seat from the entry floor up. Why on earth is your host climbing 3 flights up stairs for a non peak day and then a server bussing tables when you know this type of cilent has so many question and food allergies. Then y’all staff not trained on an app you guys ares partnering with. Wtf truly??? But thank you to the server to make the experience fun. But other than that this was just done purely giving my party options on food.

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  12. WufPup

    Washington DC

    3 reviews

    3.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 10, 2023

    overall3food4service5ambience1
    The food/service was solid - a good mixture of classic American brunch food and Balkan items. The noise levels experienced during brunch were comparable to going to a lively bar/club - my dining companion and I had to shout at each other and our server in order to be heard. The volume levels peaked at over 80dB.

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  13. Jilliancew

    Columbus

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 10, 2023

    overall3food3service3ambience4
    I am gen z but this place was too loud I lost my voice during brunch. The drinks were great and the food was mediocre. The flowers hanging from the ceiling are cute

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  14. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    11 reviews

    4.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    A lot of good selections. Had the unlimited small plate and drink experience. The hand cut fries, Brussel sprouts, lamb medallions, chicken Skewers, stuffed pepper were some of my favorites. I had more I liked but we had so much that some items are slipping my mind. The seafood options could have been better went a fan of any of them and I love seafood. Seems like the sauces over powered the seafood. They weren’t bad though, just weren’t my cup of tea. Drink selection is good. Cocktails are a bit sweet but the flavors are good. Wine selections are good. They brought a complimentary shot of the owners brandy as well. I’m not a big brandy drinker but it didn’t taste bad. Deserts were good as well. Very pleased with my dining experience. Definitely would recommend as a date night. Service was one of the best I’ve had as well. I didn’t get to take any photos I was kindve overwhelmed and honestly the thought never crossed my mind. Was busy feeding my face.

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  15. SamN

    Washington DC

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    The food was delicious and our server was very attentive. The space is beautiful but a bit loud.

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  16. LaurelM

    Detroit

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 4, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Brunch was great! Food was tasty and unique. Fun with a group of people. Good pace with a toddler too.

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  17. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on September 3, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Marie was the best server. Food was great as always!

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  18. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 3, 2023

    overall2food2service2ambience2
    Food was cold & service took a while. The AC was blasting in the restaurant

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  19. Elena

    Washington DC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 3, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Visited Ambar during restaurant week and it was the best experience! So fresh, authentic serbian cousine! We love everything we tried. All tables were occupied, but service was fast and outstanding. Thanks the team! You're the best!

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  20. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    4 reviews

    1.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on September 2, 2023

    overall1food1service1ambience1
    This was not a good experience: horrible service, jam-packed room with deafening noise. The restaurant week ‘deal’ was a rip-off, and not worth it. I am disappointed.

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  21. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    3 reviews

    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 2, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    Was very accommodating to changes in reservations. Food was a lovely experience and not one commonly seen in DC. Staff was very nice and helpful; would love to try their other locations!

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  22. AliciaG

    Washington DC

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on September 2, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Love this location! Such a vibe. The food was delicious. Our server was super nice and attentive. The decor was visually appeasing and the drinks were perfect!

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  23. AnitaA

    Washington DC

    2 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 2, 2023

    overall4food5service4ambience4
    Great venue for groups! Service was great. Will go again.

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  24. MichelleT

    London

    6 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on August 29, 2023

    overall3food3service3ambience3
    Hi guys, the food wasn’t bad but it wasn’t what I would consider special either. It was ok…. We went to try this restaurant during restaurant week because I’d heard the great reviews. The service was also just ok. I would say they could have sold more drinks to us but didn’t check if we wanted any. I think service would improve if you had different wait staff on drinks and food. So would I come back - no because it was just ok.

    1 person found this helpful

  25. Molly

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Fantastic RW Lunch— several allergies in the party and they were wonderful at accommodating and making sure the experience was enjoyable and safe

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  26. VictorPatelDC

    Washington DC

    8 reviews

    3.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on August 25, 2023

    overall3food3service3ambience3
    No comment……………………………………………………………………………………………………..

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  27. Andrea

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 24, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food and atmosphere! Everything we tried was delicious

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  28. EmilyS

    Minneapolis

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food, fun experience excellent service. Would definitely recommend.

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  29. DishoP

    Washington DC

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on August 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food and drinks , beautiful atmosphere, love this new location

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  30. AmandaJ

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Omg so good, everything was delicious. Good size portions so you can try everything without over doing it, although we totally over did it because it was so good. Drinks were amazing and atmosphere was awesome. Highly suggest.

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  31. OpenTable Diner

    Richmond

    1 review

    vip
    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Every dish is prepared with such high quality ingredients and made to perfection (which is not easy given that they serve so many small plates). Excellent value!

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  32. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    2nd time at Ambar and the food continues to be delicious. And I really like the concept of unlimited tapas style. And the Balkan food is just so flavorful. Will definitely go back.

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  33. ForrestS

    Washington DC

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 13, 2023

    overall4food5service3ambience5
    Most of the dishes are made in batches, so the food actually comes out pretty quickly. Drink refill speeds are hit and miss. The bathrooms are upstairs which is annoying if you're on the first floor toward the back. The space itself is very bright and welcoming.

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  34. BethanyR

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Ambar Shaw never disappoints! Our server Juan was exceptional. The food was delicious and came at a steady pace. This is a brunch spot that can’t be missed.

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  35. jseelke

    Washington DC

    43 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    43 reviews

    Dined on August 10, 2023

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    It's a fantastic place to meet - and is an amazing deal!

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  36. AMurr

    Greater Boston

    5 reviews

    4.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on August 6, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    Very tasty tapas style brunch dishes. There is something on the menu for everyone. The staff are kind and energetic. Loved the overall vibe. Watch out for the bottomless mimosas...they sneak up on you!

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  37. DCAK

    Washington DC

    5 reviews

    4.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on August 5, 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience3
    Always a fantastic meal with wonderful service. This location is very loud, though.

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  38. Ildi

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 5, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The rooftop is adorable, and we had great service. We went to brunch for my birthday and our server was so nice and attentive, and the food was of course delicious. Love the flavor choices for the mimosas too! Will definitely be back-thank you!

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  39. LeeC

    Washington DC

    9 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    9 reviews

    Dined on August 5, 2023

    overall3food2service4ambience3
    Good was not as good as it used to be. The salmon over cooked the dessert was meh not great. Very disappointed

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  40. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on August 4, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    amazing happy hour!! great drinks, food, and service

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Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Contactless payment available

  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

Ambar - Shaw does offer delivery in partnership with Uber Eats. Ambar - Shaw also offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at 1202478228.

Ambar - Shaw is rated 4.6 stars by 174 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 58 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for Ambar - Shaw

1547 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20001-3201

Additional information

  • Neighborhood
    Shaw
  • Hours of operation
    Unlimited Brunch Sat, Sun 10:00 am–3:30 pm Unlimited Lunch Mon–Fri 12:00 pm–3:30 pm Happy Hour Mon, Tue 12:00 pm–10:00 pm Wed–Fri 4:00 pm–7:00 pm Unlimited Dinner Mon–Thu 4:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri 4:00 pm–11:30 pm Sat 4:30 pm–11:30 pm Sun 4:30 pm–10:00 pm Late Night Fri, Sat 11:30 pm–12:00 am
  • Cuisines
    Balkan style, Modern European, Eastern European
  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Parking details
    Street Parking
  • Public transit
    Two blocks from the Shaw-Howard University Metro station accessible on the yellow and green lines.
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    Nikola Stefanovic
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Website
    https://www.ambarrestaurant.com/
  • Phone number
    1202478228
  • Catering
    Whether you are socializing with your coworkers or entertaining your friends and family at home, Ambar Catering will always be fresh and always delicious.
  • Private party facilities
    Ambar is the perfect place for all types of private and corporate events. With beautiful design perfect for event space- exceptional food and drinks and our professionally trained staff, Ambar is the place of choice when it comes to your celebration.
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