The Ultimate Guide to DC Guacamole
Just in time for celebrating with America’s MY favorite dip, it’s about time we put out a “who’s who” of guacamole spots in DC. So now you have no excuse – wherever you live, it’s time you get out and sample the very best guac DC has to offer.
Oyamel– One of my favorite guacamoles in the city, Oyamel serves you tableside and has the recipe down to a science. I love the cheese they include at the end, and the chips are perfectly salted without ever being too greasy. At $13.50, the price is standard but the quality is exceptional.
El Centro – Though it isn’t prepared tableside, El Centro serves up a fresh bowl each and every time. What we love about El Centro is their ever-changing take on the green stuff – including a bacon version that we cannot rave enough about. On price point at 10.55 for the Traditional, and 14.75 for the Guacamole Supremo.
Rosa Mexicano – My first experience with guacamole in the area came at none other than Rosa Mexicano, a local favorite. Though it’s been hit and miss, I love the tableside approach and I have always licked the bowl clean, so clearly it has been more of a hit than a miss. I can’t judge anyone who puts out as much guacamole as Rosa Mexicano does, and I have been known to detour through Chinatown just for a quick stop in. A little pricey, but a decent amount for $14.
Cuba Libre – Though we have only sampled the goods once, Cuba Libre offers a twist on the tradition, serving up their guacamole with plantain chips for dipping. The Guacamole Cubano includes grilled golden pineapple and roasted jalapeno, making this spot the outlier and most adventurous guac of the bunch. It doesn’t hurt that it is a steal for the area at $6.75 for a small and $10 for a large.
Agua 301 – Our most recent discovery, Agua 301 (situated on the Riverfront near Nationals Stadium) has a fresh menu with 3 versions of my favorite dish. While those who play it safe can count on the Traditional Guacamole (just $10), those who love seafood will delight in the Guacamole de Jaiba ($12) which obviously features fresh lump crab. Or, let the Chef know best and order the Guacamole de la Dia, as we did, and enjoy that day’s version of the good stuff ($11).
Farmers Fishers Bakers – Known for its Farm to Table concept and not exclusively for the guacamole, we had a surprise when we were served tableside with an ample amount of guac for just $12. It was flavorful, fresh, and the chips were delicious. Though you aren’t surrounded by the typical Mexican decor, you’ll forget and disappear into the bowl while a Mariachi band plays in your head.
MXDC – If you want a mountain of guacamole, a mountain is what you’ll get! Though I am a fan of the traditional molcajete, this pile of guac could make anyone’s mouth water. We ordered it spicy, which if you like some heat, I strongly suggest. For the traditional guac, you’ll be spending a reasonable $11. They also serve a unique Guacamole Azul, which is served with blue cheese and bacon ($11) and the Lobster and Corn ($15).
District Taco – If you need your guacamole in a pinch (and let’s face it, I often do) District Taco has got your back. Move over Chipotle, there is a new fast food guac in town, and this one really holds it own. Though I hate to order guacamole that comes in little container, I’ve been known to pound a few orders when the craving becomes too much…
Scott and I never fail to order guacamole when we see it on the menu, but have narrowed down much of the city to offer you this guide of our favorite bowls in DC. Tell us, where do you ‘guac’?