Under the Radar Series: Authentic Mexican at Le Chicatana (Colombia Heights DC)

NEW MEMBERS or 1st TIME EVENT GO-ERS
Before attending your first event, please take a moment to understand how our dinners work and what we ask of members.
→ Learn how DC Metro Dining works
→ Ensure Group Notifications are Setup (Announcements + In on Waitlist/Attending List)

RSVP CUTOFF (i.e. Final Change Your Mind if Registered YES)
→ RSVP Cancellation Cutoff for this Event is Friday 10a, 8/7. (Late Cancel applies after this, repeat occurrences can impact membership)

'Under the Radar' (noun): A restaurant that may not dominate DC's "best of" lists or social media feeds, yet has earned a loyal following through consistently great food, hospitality, or a concept worth discovering.

This edition of our Under the Radar series takes us to La Chicatana in Columbia Heights, created by three childhood friends from Guerrero, Mexico. Chef Marcelino Zamudio and Chef Jose Abrego spent years honing their craft in respected DC kitchens, including Oyamel and Boqueria, before opening a restaurant dedicated to showcasing the regional cuisine they grew up with. Alongside beverage director Hector Flora, whose passion for mezcal began with his family's traditions in Guerrero, they've created one of the city's most authentic and distinctive Mexican dining experiences. Food critic Tom Sietsema in 2024: 'Chicatana is my favorite D.C. restaurant this year'

FOOD: Recent diners consistently praise the tacos al pastor, pescado zarandeado, pollo con mole, enchiladas suizas, passion fruit ceviche, queso fundido, and house-made guacamole.

Guests looking for something more adventurous will also find specialties featuring chicatana ants or chapulines (grasshopper), though there are plenty of familiar options for those who prefer a more traditional Mexican dinner.

The cocktail program is also well regarded, particularly the margaritas and mezcal-based drinks. The menu accommodates a variety of dining styles, whether you're looking for tacos and appetizers or a full entrée with drinks.

-> SPENDING EXPECTATIONS <-
Most members should expect to spend between 45 and 80 dollars for dinner and drinks after tax and tip, depending on ordering style and alcohol. Members focusing on sushi and shared plates may spend somewhat less, while multiple courses, cocktails, or premium seafood selections can increase the total.

→ Explore La Chicatana's menu: https://chicatanadc.com/menu

SPACE: La Chicatana offers a colorful, contemporary dining room that blends modern finishes with traditional Mexican artwork and décor. Expect a lively neighborhood atmosphere, moderate noise levels, and an energetic Friday evening crowd that complements the restaurant's vibrant style.

→ Visit the restaurant site: https://chicatanadc.com

• Tax/Tip combo is our required 30% tax/tip policy (see the FAQs for more details)
• Limited to 10 slots

See you there
JoeN

CLOSEST METRO

• Columbia Heights (Green, Yellow) is the closest stop. Exit toward Irving Street NW and 14th Street NW, then walk north along 14th Street before turning onto Meridian Place NW. The walk is approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
• Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan (Red) station is another option for Red Line travelers. The walk is approximately 18 to 20 minutes, though transferring to the Green or Yellow Line is generally the more convenient choice.
• For directions using the Metro, try using the Plan a Trip feature at the WMATA website (click on your preferred Metro station then at the Station page level click "Plan a Trip"

PARKING: Street parking can be limited on Friday evenings. Several public garages are located within a short walk of the restaurant. Members may also want to check parking apps such as SpotHero and Parking Panda for discounted garage reservations and advance booking options nearby. Plan accordingly.

*** Attendance Notes***

• If you RSVP “YES,” please commit to showing up*. With 5,400+ members and limited seating, we can’t afford no-shows. It’s not fair to other members or to our relationship with the restaurant.*
• New Members / 1st Timers: Trying to get a slot? Join the Waitlist and check back frequently: spots (often open up on the morning of the event). You may also receive midweek confirmation emails to reconfirm your RSVP, so please check your Meetup DMs 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

Looking forward to dining with you
Joe