A new season brings a new lineup of bars and restaurants to DC’s ever-growing dining scene. Here’s where you need to be eating and drinking this spring.

 

 

Another day, another rooftop bar opens up in Shaw - the taqueria takes the spot of former 1905 and boasts a lineup of tacos, salsas, margaritas and slushies in an atmosphere that drums up bright colors and beachy vibes - quite the contrast from 1905’s dark and moody interiors. Head here for a colorful, coastal respite amidst the confusing winter/spring weather DC has been experiencing as of late. (1905 9th St, NW; 202-299-0381)

 

The recently opened Italian restaurant serves up authentic Neopolitan dishes like Paccheri Ragu and Panna Cotta coupled with Italian wines and cocktails. Guests can also enjoy pre-dinner libations and snacks off of the aperitivo menu offered 4:30pm to 6:30pm Tuesday through Friday. Owner Antonio Ferraro brings years of experience in the industry having managed heavy hitters including Cafe Milano, Lupo Verde, Del Campo and Quill at the Jefferson Hotel. (2737 Sherman Ave, NW; 202-588-8752)

 

From well-known restaurateur Ashok Bajaj comes Sababa - serving up modern Israeli dishes in the space that was formerly Ardeo+Bardeo in Cleveland Park. Guests can nosh on mezze, kebabs, hummus and other platters meant to be shared with the table including Charred Eggplant with herbed labneh; Harissa-Marinated Chicken Thighs; Vegetable Tagine with charred okra, herbed couscous and tomato; and Lamb Shank with braised red cabbage, dates and citrus. Sip on interesting house cocktails like the Phoenician Frappe (Green Hat Gin, Arak, Mint, Lavender, Borage); Gardens of Haifa (Vida Mezcal, Sundried Tomato, Red Pepper, Garlic, Herbs; and the Cradle of Civilization (Rye-infused Whiskey, Sorghum, Caraway and Sesame Bitters). (3311 Connecticut Ave, NW; 202-244-6750)

 

 

The second outpost of the pizza restaurant from Presidential Restaurant Group will be located in prime territory by Nationals Park and will feature an outdoor patio and a larger interior space than its sister restaurant in Shaw. Come baseball season, fans can sink their teeth into gourmet pizza pies, cheesesteaks and other Italian dishes from chef Demetrio Zavala post and pre Nats games. (1237 First St, SE; 202-558-9802)

 

Opening this week (March 28), the highly anticipated restaurant coming to the Wharf will feature a menu filled with dishes inspired by the flavors of Southeast Asia, Korea and the Philippines. Expect to see adobo chicken, pancit, fried pork belly, bibimbap, seafood stews, whole fried fish panang curry and more. (751 Wharf St, SW; 202-516-4739)