Interested in keeping track of developments at the Wharf? From a doughnut shop to an Italian restaurant, read on for a list of the newest destinations to make their debuts in this Washington neighborhood.
District Doughnut
5 Market Square SW
District Doughnut has opened a new outlet in Southwest Washington. The homegrown mini-chain, which includes a kiosk in Nationals Park, makes its doughnuts daily from scratch.
The evolving menu currently includes such flavors as brown butter, chocolate peanut butter and pumpkin glazed. Local roaster Compass Coffee provides the coffee.
There's not much room inside, but there are a number of outdoor tables.
With a 4.5-star Yelp rating out of 19 reviews, District Doughnut has been getting positive attention.
Yelper Sauyeh H., who reviewed it on Sept. 9, wrote, "The shop has friendly staff and an awesome variety of both seasonal and regular flavors. I tried the fluffernutter, which is made with fresh peanut butter and marshmallow fluff. It was amazing. My sister tried the strawberry glaze and also really enjoyed it."
Victoria Y. noted, "The staff were extremely helpful and kind, too. They recommended their favorites but honestly, every single one of these doughnuts look grand so I don't think you can make a wrong choice."
District Doughnut is open from 7 a.m.–10 p.m. daily.
La Vie
88 District Square SW, Floor 5
La Vie is a new modern Mediterranean restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide expansive views of the marina.
Seafood abounds on the menu. You'll find appetizers like baked oysters and seared scallops, a house-made pasta dish with lobster, and entrees that include panko-crusted halibut and salmon with parsnip purée. Non-seafood options range from burrata with heirloom tomatoes and zataar, to roast chicken with pickled shitake mushroom.
The multiple bars inside the restaurant are pouring house cocktails, wine and craft beer.
With a four-star rating out of 106 reviews on Yelp, La Vie is off to a strong start.
Yelper Danny S., who reviewed the restaurant on Sept. 9, wrote, "The main room has some good views of the Wharf because you are literally surrounded by windows on the fourth floor."
And Norm J. wrote, "I highly recommend La Vie for dinner and if you just want to go out to drink with friends. The ladies here were dressed to impress, while the guys were able to pass with jeans or shorts and a button up."
La Vie is open from 5–10 p.m. on Thursday-Sunday and 5 p.m.–2:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Toastique
764 Maine Ave. SW
Next, Toastique is a breakfast and brunch spot that specializes in topped toasts.
There's the classic avocado toast, prepared with marinated tomatoes, watermelon radish and micro-greens; a smoked salmon version with herb cream cheese spread, cucumber and a poached egg; and one with peanut butter, fruit, granola, honey and mint. There are also healthy bowls made with various fruits, granola and toppings.
To drink, think fresh juice combinations and smoothies.
Toastique currently holds 4.5 stars out of 40 reviews on Yelp, indicating good reviews.
Yelper Brittany F., who reviewed it on Sept. 9, wrote, "The presentation was outstanding. The staff was very friendly, all smiles on a dreary Monday morning. If you're a coffee drinker, they have self-serve coffee for two bucks; and, per the sign, you don't have to wait in the food line."
Danny S. wrote, "Interior of this place is spot on — it has a retro feel to it, but at the same time is modern and updated. They have an assortment of different juices, toasts, and smoothies, which are on the pricey side (around $8). I specifically got the Gingerberry smoothie, and it was awesome."
Toastique is open from 7 a.m.–7 p.m. daily.
Lupo Marino
40 Pearl St. SW
Finally, next to Toastique is Lupo Marino, an Italian restaurant in a bright, modern space. It is part of the Lahlou Restaurant Group (Lupo Verde, Tunnicliff's, Ulah Bistro).
There's wood-fired pizza, whether designed by you or by the chef. House combinations include the San Daniel (prosciutto, arugula and olive oil) and the Funghi (garlic confit, foraged mushroom, pecorino crema, preserved lemon and oregano).
The menu goes beyond pizza to include smaller bites like paninis, salads and bruschetta. The full bar has beer, wine and handcrafted cocktails.
With a 3.5-star rating out of 54 reviews on Yelp, Lupo Marino appears to be a welcome addition to the neighborhood.
Jenny C., who was among the first Yelpers to review the new spot on June 10, said, "The pizza is a must-try here. The menu is set up to be shareable small plates, but the portions are fairly generous and could be a meal on their own."
H. C. said, "Delicious, charming and affordable, in a neighborhood of places that often empty your wallet before they fill your stomach. Had a really good Fritto Misto, and am excited to try more."
Lupo Marino is open from 11 a.m.–midnight daily.
