DC Autumn Dining – Fire-Kissed Latin Dining at dLeña (Mt Vernon Triangle DC)

Organizer JoeN is back leading another delicious outing. This time, we’re doing great Mexican at dLeña by Chef Richard Sandoval.

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FOOD: dLeña is known for its wood-fired modern Latin cuisine — a smoke-kissed twist on Mexican flavors with inventive execution. The menu leans into the meaning of leña (firewood), showcasing dishes that balance bold, smoky depth with fresh ingredients and creative presentation.

Recent favorites include short rib tacos with arugula and peanut chile sauce, ceviche Amarillo, wagyu steak a la piedra, and seafood enchiladas. The bar program also leans heavily into mezcal and tequila-driven cocktails, rounding out the experience with equally bold flavors.

October brings Chef Sandoval’s month-long Día de Los Muertos journey, celebrating loved ones and inspired by the moon’s silver path. Expect moon-themed dishes and drinks.

--> Check out the full dinner menu

→ Visit dLeña by Chef Richard Sandoval DC’s website to learn more

SPACE: A modern, colorful design with plenty of energy. It feels stylish but approachable.

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==> Tax/Tip combo is our required 30% tax/tip policy (no exceptions)
==> Limited to 6 slots

CLOSEST METRO: Judicial Square (Red Line), ~10 min walk up 5th then a right on K St. Mt. Vernon Square / Shaw (Yellow / Green), ~8 min walk. Exit toward 7th St NW, walk east along K Street NW to 5th St, then continue to 476 K.

For trip planning, try WMATA’s “Plan a Trip” feature at www.wmata.com

PARKING: Street parking is tight during dinner hours—consider Metro, rideshare, or garage options in the area.

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Attendance Notes:

• If you RSVP “YES,” please commit to showing up. With 5,000+ members and limited seating, we can’t afford no-shows. It’s not fair to other members or to our relationship with the restaurant.
• No-Show / Late Cancel rules apply (see links below).
• Can’t get a slot? Join the Waitlist and check back frequently—spots often open up before Noon on the day of the event. You may also receive midweek confirmation emails to reconfirm your RSVP, so please check your inbox.
• Billing Reminder: Add 30% for tax and tip to your food and drink total. This is part of our group’s expectations and helps smooth out service with the restaurant.
• New Members / 1st Timers: Visit our FAQs and No-Show Policy if you're unfamiliar with how we run things.

Looking forward to dining with you!

– JoeN