The stars are twinkling a bit differently in D.C.'s dining sky this year as the Michelin Guide released its 2024 awards. According to Washingtonian, the French-based rating system added two new District restaurants to its constellation of star recipients, while one D.C. establishment, Oyster Oyster, earned a new distinction for sustainability.
Stepping into the spotlight, Mita, a plant-based outfit with a Latin American twist in Shaw, and Omakase @ Barracks Row, which serves a meticulously curated sushi menu, both received one Michelin star. While the guide has brought joy to some, it has also seen fit to make revisions: Middle Eastern standout Maydan was dropped from the list and Pineapple and Pearls now shines a little less brightly, having been downgraded from two stars to one, as detailed in a statement from Michelin cited by WUSA9.
The addition of Mita and Omakase @ Barracks Row brings the total number of starred establishments in the D.C. area to 26. The Michelin Guide's inspectors described Mita's offerings as "creative and diverse," remarking on the chefs' ability to blend traditional Latin American flavors with fresh, modern interpretations. Omakase @ Barracks Row caught their attention with both its artful ambiance and the reverence woven into its culinary experience, "This artistic touch is more than just decorative; it's a reflection of chef Ricky Wang's deep respect for tradition," said the inspectors, according to a report by WUSA9.
On the sustainability front, Oyster Oyster earned a "Michelin Green Star" recognizing the establishment's commitment to environmentally-friendly practices in its operation, The Michelin Guide inspection team is delighted to add both Mita and Omakase to the Michelin star family, in addition to these restaurants, it is evident the culinary scene in Washington, D.C. continues to focus its passion on sustainable gastronomy, with a new Michelin Green star being awarded to Oyster Oyster, Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guides, announced as per WTOP.
This year’s guide celebrates new entries and honors local talent. Chef Carlos Delgado received the Michelin Young Chef Award for his work at Causa. Jill Tyler of Tail Up Goat, William Simons of Albi, and Thi Nguyen of Moon Rabbit won the Outstanding Service, Sommelier, and Exceptional Cocktails awards, respectively. The Inn at Little Washington remains the region’s only three-Michelin-star restaurant, maintaining its tradition of excellence, according to WUSA9.
