The Best Restaurant in Downtown, Washington, D.C.

Background Illustration for Restaurants

Until recently, tourists who trekked north from the Mall hungry for something more than Smithsonian cafeteria food were stranded Downtown with little but high-end options. Now, young Washingtonians are taking advantage of residential development and moving off Capitol Hill to Downtown, Penn Quarter, and Chinatown, where nothing short of a restaurant revolution has taken shape in the last decade.

Kaz Sushi Bistro

$$ | Downtown

Traditional Japanese cooking is combined with often inspired improvisations ("freestyle Japanese cuisine," in the words of chef-owner Kaz Okochi) at this serene location. For a first-rate experience, sit at the sushi bar and ask for whatever is best—you're in good hands. But the unique arrangements on the regular menu, from tuna with roasted almonds to salmon with mango puree, are just as memorable. It's not all raw here; the cast of small plates served warm might include local puffer fish with baby bok choy or grilled avocado.

1915 I St. NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA
202-530–5500
Known For
  • One of D.C.'s original sushi spots
  • Unique Japanese dishes and small plates
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun. and Mon.
Reccomended

Something incorrect in this review?