Crowned the top restaurant in the DMV by the Washingtonian, the District’s newest Michelin Star establishment provided a wonderful experience for my wife and I during our recent visit. We were warmly greeted at the door and seated at the tasting counter, where we had a clear view of everything happening before us.

The first of the appetizer courses was the cebiche de langosta, featuring lobster, rocoto, chulpt, and huacatay. This dish presented a sophisticated take on ceviche, incorporating elevated ingredients, which was executed very well and proved to be delicious. Next was the huatia: a blend of root vegetables, uchucuta, huacatay, queso fresco, and salt. We learned that the potatoes and sweet potatoes were baked in a salt crust, resulting in just the right amount of seasoning without being overly salty, while the accompanying sauce offered a spicy kick. Lastly, we savored the escabeche: dry-aged black cod with red wine vinegar, onion, quail egg, sweet potato, ají amarillo, and botija. The cod was tender, and thanks to the dry aging process, it boasted a more concentrated flavor. The complementary components of the dish harmonized beautifully with the cod, creating a truly memorable culinary experience.

Moving on to the main courses, the first entrée was the arroz a la tacnena: octopus served with bomba rice, ají panca, and chalaca. This innovative take on paella was a delight, with tender octopus and perfectly cooked rice. The final savory course of the evening, and my personal favorite, was the fiesta del cerdo, featuring Iberico and Autumn Olive Farms pork, sun-dried potatoes, peanuts, cinnamon, and Petrossian caviar. This “pork party” showcased some of the finest cuts of pork I’ve ever tasted, each offering a distinct flavor profile, with the Iberico standing out as our favorite.

To round out the evening, the dessert course featured macambo, passion fruit, huacatay, matcha, and mango, providing a delightful conclusion to our culinary journey. Additionally, we were treated to a variety of delicious sugary, and chocolatey treats.

Causa undoubtedly deserves its status as the number one restaurant in the DMV and its Michelin Star accolade. My wife and I were thoroughly impressed and look forward to returning in the future. Be sure to check out my photos in the “Restaurant Gallery” section of the website!