ABOUT US
Qui Qui DC
Bringing the authentic flavors and culture of Puerto Rico to the Nation’s Capital.
Take a trip with us to the island of enchantment; At Qui Qui DC, we bring the best Puerto Rican delicious food, drinks, and music to the heart of Washington, D.C.
Qui Qui DC started when Chef Ismael Mendez, known as "Qui Qui" by his family and childhood friends, decided to take his food truck and pop-up business to the next level, creating a whole experience around his family roots and beloved traditions.
Since 2018, Qui Qui DC has been proudly delivering Puerto Rican flavors to the Nation's Capital, serving delicious high-end Puerto Rican cuisine to all guests, near and far. Now people can enjoy the best authentic Latino food, along with delicious rum cocktails, music, and a vibrant atmosphere in Qui Qui DC's new spectacular venue, located in the Shaw neighborhood, on the second floor above the venerable Passenger bar.
At Qui Qui’s, our focus has always been to deliver our guests the best comfort food while paying homage to the strong women in our lives; our moms, abuelitas, and tías that first introduced us to the world of cooking and flavors. We stay true to the dishes and drinks we know and grew up loving. Our seasonal menu is inspired by the beautiful people and diverse ingredients from Puerto Rico and the entire West Indies, providing you with authenticity and consistency from start to finish.
As you step into our restaurant, the bright tropical pastel colors and comfortable, relaxed spirit will transport you directly to the streets of Old San Juan, making Qui Qui DC an ideal gathering place, connecting friends and family. Come in and taste the best Puerto Rican classics in all of Washington DC. We serve staples such as pan sobao, cuchifrito, and morcilla, along with all-time classic dishes such as Pernil (roasted pork shoulder), pasteles, mofongo, the one-and-only lechón, and MUCH more!
With such a diverse culinary history and deep culture, it was only right to introduce the District to some true Sabor Latino. And it’s not only Puerto Rican flavors we’re talking about! Venezuelan delicious dishes are also served at Qui Qui DC, making our restaurant the very best place to find authentic Caribbean food in DC. Don’t forget to try our incredible empanadas and tostones!
And wait, there’s more. Our extensive rum bottle selection like Ron Del Barrilito takes center stage at Qui Qui DC. If you are in the mood for an excellent drink, you’ll want to write our address down right away. Delight yourself with popular roadsides Puerto Rican drinks like Maví, Mojitos, and Piña coladas, made especially for you!
Ask us about our Catering Services! Whether you want to celebrate something special or treat yourself and your loved ones to a beautiful evening, Qui Qui DC is here to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Come join us and see what the buzz is about. Wepa!