Oyamel Cocina Mexicana

Oyamel Cocina Mexicana is a contemporary Mexican restaurant at 401 7th St NW in the Penn Quarter neighbourhood of Washington, D.C., United States. It is a Jose Andres concept and is listed in the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand, which recognises good food at moderate prices. The menu is organised around antojitos, small plates and tacos meant for sharing, drawing on regional Mexican cooking. Tableside guacamole is one of the signature experiences, and tacos de chapulines, made with grasshoppers, are the dish most often cited as a distinctive order, alongside a range of antojitos and margaritas. The dining room is colourful and festive, with a bar, an open kitchen feel and a loud, convivial atmosphere, particularly in the evening and before events at nearby venues. Dress is casual and the restaurant suits groups and families as well as couples. The beverage programme leans toward tequila and mezcal, with margaritas and cocktails as a major part of the offer. Prices are in the $$ tier, and because plates are small, a group typically orders several to share. Reservations are recommended and are made through OpenTable or by calling +1-202-628-1005. Dinner on Friday and Saturday and pre-theatre hours are the busiest times, and booking a few days ahead is sensible for those periods, although bar seating is often available to walk-ins. Listings show Monday to Thursday service from 11:30am to 10pm, Friday from 11:30am to 11pm and weekend service from about 11am to 10pm or 11pm, so confirming by phone is advisable. The location is a short walk from the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery, Capital One Arena and the National Mall, which makes it a convenient lunch or dinner stop between sights.