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Oyamel, Washington, DC
Award-winning

Oyamel

4.7
4.7
9046 Reviews
$30 and under
Mexican
Oyamel Cocina Mexicana combines Mexico’s rich regional culinary traditions with modern urban fare. Guests experience an array of antijitos—traditional Mexican snack or small plates—along with authentic tacos, ceviches and an impressive selection of cocktails and tequilas. This is like no Mexican food you have ever experienced. Under the direction of renowned chef José Andrés, Head Chef Omar Rodriguez takes traditional ingredients and techniques and elevates them to deliver dishes and drinks with exceptional creativity and refinement.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 12 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Cuisines
    Mexican, Tapas / Small Plates
  • Hours of operation
    Mon, Sun 11:30 am–10:00 pm Tue–Thu 11:30 am–11:00 pm Fri, Sat 11:30 am–12:00 am
  • Phone number
    (202) 628-1005
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Executive chef
    José Andrés; Head Chef, Omar Rodriguez
  • Catering
    Catering on a whole new level; José Andrés Catering elevates catering and event planning to new heights in the Washington, DC area and beyond. Now you can experience the inspired creations of celebrated chef José Andrés at your own party or venue. Visit us for more information at www.joseandrescatering.com, or call us at (202) 628-1005.
  • Private party facilities
    Let’s Get The Party Started! At Oyamel, it feels like a fiesta the moment you walk through the door.
  • Private party contact
    our Private Party Coordinator: (202) 810-8284
  • Award-winning
    1. MICHELIN Bib Gourmand 2022
  • Neighborhood
    Penn Quarter
  • Cross street
    D Street
  • Parking details
    There are ample public lots in the Gallery Place/Chinatown/Penn Quarter area. Metered street parking is also available.
  • Public transit
    Archives/Navy Memorial/Penn Quarter on the yellow and green lines; Gallery Place/Chinatown on the red, yellow and green lines.
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 9,046 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

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

4.7
4.7 based on recent ratings
  • 4.7Food
  • 4.7Service
  • 4.5Ambience
  • 4.4Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • Washington, D.C. Area

    Mexican

  • District of Columbia

    Mexican

9,046 Reviews
  1. OpenTable Diner

    Louisville

    3 reviews

    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 17, 2023

    overall4food3service4ambience5
    The concept is amazing, unfortunately we got the chef’s experience. This was described as a coursed meal, they were trying to bring a lot of the courses together causing the food to be cold. Also they only brought one dessert when we all paid for a 10 coursed meal, definitely not worth the price. Although some stand alone items were well worth it on their own.

    Is this helpful?

  2. BrianK

    Washington DC

    6 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Oyamel never disappoints! Brought two friends from out of town and they loved it as much as we always do! We had 3 types of ceviche, the special, which was Chile en Nogada, and the salt foam margaritas.

    Is this helpful?

  3. BrendanS

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    WoW! Incredible food, incredible margaritas, and incredible vibe! Would eat here again in a heartbeat

    Is this helpful?

  4. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on September 11, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food, drinks, service, and atmosphere. Willing definitely return again.

    Is this helpful?

  5. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Atmosphere feels very inviting. I think no matter what you get yo

    Is this helpful?

  6. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall3food3service5ambience5
    The food was slightly above average, but the atmosphere was lively and fun much like my Mexican restaurant experiences in south Texas

    Is this helpful?

  7. KayeP

    Philadelphia

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on September 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We dined at over ten restaurants in the DC area while on vacation. Oyamel provided the best experience overall. The staff was great, food was delicious. Top to bottom, it is the best experience overall.

    Is this helpful?

  8. JuanitaB

    Washington DC

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 2, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The service and food was great I have no complaints and I will definitely be returning in the near future!

    Is this helpful?

  9. suzydc

    Washington DC

    13 reviews

    5.0

    13 reviews

    Dined on August 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We went during restaurant week and the food and selection was great. We each got 3 small plates and dessert.. The chicken verde tamale was excellent and huge, stuffed full of chicken. Cerviche was excellent. Considering how busy they were, the service was very attentive..Only good things to say.

    Is this helpful?

  10. RobertM

    Washington DC

    12 reviews

    5.0

    12 reviews

    Dined on August 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    A wonderful restaurant and a wonderful chef. We will be back!!

    Is this helpful?

  11. Sarah

    Washington DC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 27, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    Oyamel has the best guacamole I have EVER eaten! I love the atmosphere, the small plates, the drinks, EVERYTHING!

    Is this helpful?

  12. OpenTable Diner

    Los Angeles

    24 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    24 reviews

    Dined on August 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We loved Oyamel! The food and drink were really good. The service was great! Our server provided a lot of good recommendations and accommodated food allergies. We were stuffed by the end of the meal. We definitely want to come back and try more dishes!

    Is this helpful?

  13. Mahidevran

    Washington DC

    19 reviews

    5.0

    19 reviews

    Dined on August 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This is one of my favorite restaurants in DC. Love the food and the ambience.

    Is this helpful?

  14. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    8 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on August 26, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    Excellent food. The attention is not very good They took a long time to bring the food and you have to ask them several times for things. no they did not offer the guacamole until we asked. they didn't bring us salsa and chips until we asked for them However, I would gladly return. it's worth it

    Is this helpful?

  15. Handsgirl

    Greater Boston

    56 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    56 reviews

    Dined on August 23, 2023

    overall2food2service3ambience4
    I stopped her for lunch after not visiting in years. I had higher expectations. The service was good- the hosts in particular were friendly and attentive. the food left us disappointed. The ceviche was ok but was drowned in liquid (tasted like oj). My margarita was just ok- not very flavorful and I upgraded to the resposado. We ordered fresh guacamole which was the biggest disappointment. It was half tomatillos instead of avocados! The tortillas with queso were smothered in so much cheese and crema that they were a mushy mess- you couldn’t pick up the chips.

    1 person found this helpful

  16. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    6 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on August 18, 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience5
    The food was delicious and great service but it’s too loud inside. Suggest adding noise canceling material to the ceiling.

    Is this helpful?

  17. KarenB

    Washington DC

    9 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    9 reviews

    Dined on August 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Best deal in town for DC’s summer restaurant week!

    Is this helpful?

  18. OpenTable Diner

    San Antonio

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food was delicious. Perfect last meal of our trip.

    Is this helpful?

  19. OpenTable Diner

    Richmond

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Definitely do a tasting for the table. And get a mezcal flight. And if you have Larissa as a waitress, you’ve hit the trifecta!

    Is this helpful?

  20. OpenTable Diner

    Las Vegas

    4 reviews

    3.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on August 4, 2023

    overall3food2service5ambience4
    Service and ambiance was very good but we did no care for the food so much

    Is this helpful?

  21. OpenTable Diner

    Greater Boston

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 4, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I have been many times and it is a consistently good place to eat.

    Is this helpful?

  22. JasmineH

    Washington DC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Will be returning. I had a great experience and the staff was excellent.

    1 person found this helpful

  23. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on July 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing food, small but satisfying plates. Great and friendly service as well. Would 100% eat here again.

    1 person found this helpful

  24. OpenTable Diner

    Charleston

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on June 13, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    Food was exquisite, tasty and shareable. Brisket was unreal and the portions were filling

    1 person found this helpful

  25. SusanB

    Washington DC

    20 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    20 reviews

    Dined on June 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Make your reservation. We were there early for a pre-theater dinner and the restaurant was lively and vibrant and full. Many choices of cocktails. Our foamy margaritas were yummy. Lots to choose from on the menu of small plates, with a good selection of vegetarian choices. We chose 2 meat and 2 veggie; nice twists on traditional recipes and each delicious.

    1 person found this helpful

  26. Slepp

    Washington DC

    17 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    17 reviews

    Dined on June 4, 2023

    overall2food1service5ambience2
    Three words, Noise, Salt and Spice, in that order. Margarita with salt foam, ceviche soaked in spicy salt sauce, chips with added salt and spices was just too much. Very loud restaurant even on a Sunday night with no sound absorption. If you’re still a Jose Andres fan, go up the street to Jaleo for the opposite experience.

    Is this helpful?

  27. ChrisO

    New York Area

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on June 3, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My daughter is a senior at CUA in DC. We both enjoy an adventurous dining experience. We are working our way through all of José Andrés restaurants. Oyamel did not disappoint! We love the small plate concept as it allows us to try many different delicious dishes. Our server was pleasant and efficient. Each dish was delightful and the guacamole was the best I have ever had! I highly recommend the Oyamel margarita.

    1 person found this helpful

  28. Dalton

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on June 2, 2023

    overall2food4service2ambience4
    The happy hour menu shouldn’t be fully advertised on the website if it’s only available at the bar. At least include a note that it’s not widely available, otherwise folks will come to your website under false pretenses.

    Is this helpful?

  29. OpenTable Diner

    San Francisco

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Oyamel is always great. I usually eat at the bar and the bartenders are knowledgeable and passionate about what they do. A festive place.

    1 person found this helpful

  30. OpenTable Diner

    Anchorage

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We really enjoyed our time here. Creative cocktails, pleasant atmosphere, and incredible food. Well worth every minute of our time.

    1 person found this helpful

  31. TooLoud

    Washington DC

    38 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    38 reviews

    Dined on May 24, 2023

    overall4food4service2ambience2
    Mid afternoon you might expect a less crowded restaurant and less noise. Wrong!! The food is great but you have to put up with the poor ambiance.

    Is this helpful?

  32. MichaelL

    Washington DC

    17 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    17 reviews

    Dined on May 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent meal!! Food is amazing! Service was great!!

    Is this helpful?

  33. BarbaraF

    Washington DC

    35 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    35 reviews

    Dined on May 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Everything about Oyamel is just delightful. The fabulous brunch menu. The wonderful serving staff. The creative cocktails. One of my go-to places for Saturday brunch before the Shakespeare Theater!

    1 person found this helpful

  34. OpenTable Diner

    Houston

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Food was wonderful! A bit pricey, but good. Waitstaff was amazing!

    1 person found this helpful

  35. Sarah

    Washington DC

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on April 30, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Oyamel never disappoints! The food is always great, friendly staff, great atmosphere and an exciting menu!

    1 person found this helpful

  36. DivaDiner

    Washington DC

    32 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    32 reviews

    Dined on April 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Oyamel's food is delicious. The atmosphere is lively! The service is great!

    1 person found this helpful

  37. fabfoodie

    Orlando

    12 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    12 reviews

    Dined on April 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Jose was attentive and gave us great service. The food selection is interesting and excellent. The smaller plate idea encourages trying multiple items.

    1 person found this helpful

  38. KristenB

    Washington DC

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on April 24, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Still a great place for food and drink. Margaritas are perfection!

    1 person found this helpful

  39. KishaM

    Washington DC

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 16, 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience4
    As always everything was yummy. The knowledge of our server was out of this world!

    Is this helpful?

  40. Mommyneedsadrink

    Washington DC

    10 reviews

    4.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on April 13, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience4
    Always great food and drinks but soooooo loud!! Had a nice time with my sister but would not be great for an intimate dinner .

    Is this helpful?

Safety precautions

  • Protective equipment

    • Waitstaff wear masks
    • Diners must wear masks unless eating or drinking
  • Screening

    • Staff is vaccinated

FAQs

You can order delivery directly from Oyamel using the Order Online button. Oyamel also offers delivery in partnership with Uber Eats. Oyamel also offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (202) 628-1005.

Oyamel is rated 4.7 stars by 9046 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 12 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for Oyamel

401 7th Street N.W., Washington, DC 20004

Additional information

  • Award-winning
    1. MICHELIN Bib Gourmand 2022
  • Cross street
    D Street
  • Neighborhood
    Penn Quarter
  • Hours of operation
    Mon, Sun 11:30 am–10:00 pm Tue–Thu 11:30 am–11:00 pm Fri, Sat 11:30 am–12:00 am
  • Cuisines
    Mexican, Tapas / Small Plates
  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Parking details
    There are ample public lots in the Gallery Place/Chinatown/Penn Quarter area. Metered street parking is also available.
  • Public transit
    Archives/Navy Memorial/Penn Quarter on the yellow and green lines; Gallery Place/Chinatown on the red, yellow and green lines.
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    José Andrés; Head Chef, Omar Rodriguez
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Phone number
    (202) 628-1005
  • Catering
    Catering on a whole new level; José Andrés Catering elevates catering and event planning to new heights in the Washington, DC area and beyond. Now you can experience the inspired creations of celebrated chef José Andrés at your own party or venue. Visit us for more information at www.joseandrescatering.com, or call us at (202) 628-1005.
  • Private party facilities
    Let’s Get The Party Started! At Oyamel, it feels like a fiesta the moment you walk through the door.
  • Private party contact
    our Private Party Coordinator: (202) 810-8284
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