DC Dosa

DC Dosa

⭐ 3.7/5 (270 reviews) 💰 $10–20 per person Indian

📍 1309 5th St NE, Washington, Washington

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.7/5.0 • 270 reviews
📍 Address
1309 5th St NE
Washington, Washington 20002
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$10–20 per person
🍽️ Category
Indian

⏰ Opening Hours

Tuesday11 am–8 pm
Wednesday11 am–8 pm
Thursday11 am–8 pm
Friday11 am–9 pm
Saturday11 am–9 pm
Sunday11 am–9 pm
Monday11 am–8 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

As soon as you step into DC Dosa, you're immediately struck by the casual yet trendy atmosphere that sets the tone for your dining experience. The vibrant, colorful decor and contemporary furnishings create a welcoming and inviting ambiance, making it the perfect spot for a casual lunch or a lively dinner. The space is designed to be both family-friendly and LGBTQ+ inclusive, catering to a diverse crowd that includes university students, tourists, and local regulars.

The menu at DC Dosa is a true celebration of Indian cuisine, with a strong emphasis on vegan and vegetarian dishes. From the signature dosas (crispy South Indian crepes) to the comforting curries and small plates, every dish is carefully crafted using high-quality, fresh ingredients. The restaurant takes pride in its commitment to serving delicious, plant-based fare that satisfies both meat-eaters and vegans alike. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a more substantial meal, the diverse menu offers something to please every palate, including a selection of desserts to round out your dining experience.

The service at DC Dosa is attentive and efficient, with the friendly staff providing recommendations and answering any questions you may have. The restaurant's counter service model ensures a swift and seamless dining experience, making it an excellent choice for a solo lunch or a casual gathering with friends. Despite its modest price range, DC Dosa offers exceptional value, with generous portions and a commitment to quality that is evident in every bite. Overall, the combination of delicious food, welcoming atmosphere, and friendly service makes DC Dosa a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a satisfying and memorable vegan or vegetarian dining experience in Washington, D.C.

Features & Amenities

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Has outdoor seating Offers delivery Offers takeaway Serves dine-in
Popular for
Popular for lunch Popular for dinner Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves comfort food Quick bite Serves small plates Serves vegan dishes Serves vegetarian dishes
Dining options
Serves brunch Serves lunch Serves dinner Has catering Has counter service Serves dessert Has seating No table service
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly LGBTQ+ friendly Popular with tourists Transgender safe space Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards Accepts debit cards Accepts NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
High chairs available

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

The atmosphere at DC Dosa is casual and welcoming, with a modern, minimalist design that creates a relaxed and inviting vibe. The space is filled with natural light, thanks to large windows that let in plenty of sunshine and offer a glimpse of the bustling city outside. The decor features a mix of earthy tones and vibrant accents, with wooden tables and chairs complemented by colorful artwork and plants that add a touch of greenery to the space.

The seating arrangement is flexible, with a mix of communal tables and smaller, more intimate settings, allowing guests to choose the atmosphere that best suits their dining experience. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch with a colleague or enjoying a leisurely dinner with friends, the casual and inclusive ambiance of DC Dosa makes it the perfect spot for a comfortable and satisfying meal.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free dosa and curry options are available, prepared in a dedicated gluten-free area.
  • Raw Food Choices - Several raw, plant-based salad and appetizer options are offered, featuring seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces and dishes are clearly labeled, with strict protocols to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - High-fat, low-carb vegan dishes including cauliflower curries, coconut-based dips, and zucchini-noodle based entrees.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - DC Dosa is a popular spot for a quick, affordable, and delicious Indian-inspired meal during the workday, with a lively and casual atmosphere.
  • Friday dinner - Enjoy a relaxed and social dining experience at DC Dosa on Friday evenings, when the restaurant offers a lively and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for groups or date nights.
  • Weekend brunch - DC Dosa's weekend brunch menu features a variety of creative and flavorful vegan and vegetarian dishes, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely weekend meal with friends or family.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Women-Owned Establishment: DC Dosa is a proudly women-owned Indian restaurant, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit and culinary expertise of its female founders.
  • Accessible Dining Experience: With a wheelchair-accessible entrance and toilet, DC Dosa ensures a welcoming and inclusive dining experience for all guests.
  • Extensive Vegan and Vegetarian Menu: Offering a wide range of vegan and vegetarian dishes, DC Dosa caters to various dietary preferences, showcasing the versatility of Indian cuisine.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

DC Dosa is situated in the vibrant and diverse Adams Morgan neighborhood of Washington, D.C. Known for its eclectic mix of international restaurants, bustling nightlife, and lively street art, the area is a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. Just a short walk away from the lively 18th Street NW corridor, the restaurant is surrounded by a variety of independent shops, galleries, and cultural institutions, making it an ideal spot for a casual lunch or dinner after exploring the neighborhood.

With its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to plant-based Indian cuisine, DC Dosa has become a favorite among the area's sizable vegan and vegetarian community, as well as health-conscious diners seeking flavorful and nourishing meals. The restaurant's inclusive and progressive vibe also draws in a diverse crowd, including university students, young professionals, and LGBTQ+ individuals, making it a true community hub in the heart of Adams Morgan.

💬 Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Decent dosa. The portion of sauces were small compared to the size of the dosa. Pricey for a dosa but did the job if you..."

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"This food was amazing. I have never tasted something like it. The vegetables within the dosa were sweet and aromatic—alm..."

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Thank you for taking the time to write this detailed review. We take a lot of care in the preparation and making of our ..."

— Customer #3
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Had Dosa with yellow lentils, mixed vegetables and potatoes. Rating 3. Tamarind sauce was not good imho. It didn’t taste..."

— Customer #4