El Presidente - Mexican restaurant in Washington - 1255 Union St NE, USA

Snuck into El Presidente at the last minute (reservations are like the hunger games here) and it did not disappoint! Our waiter was very friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. He pretty much told us to order the whole menu because he enjoyed a bit of everything! The interior is beautiful however they only had outdoor seating available. I would love to come back and sit inside and enjoy the full experience!

I’ve now been to El Presidente several times and have had nothing but great experiences. The service is impeccable. The vibes and decor of the restaurant are unmatched and the food is simple but done well. The pricing for DC is pretty good. Definitely my favorite new restaurant!

Very solid. We went with some friends, food had nice flavor, atmosphere was very nice. Prices are fine given the quality, but for what you are paying, come on… throw a little more on each plate. Would have taken more photos but forgot. Realistic rating is 4.3/5. Would be higher with more portions. My wife order the cod tacos and got two small tacos! Crime!

My date and I had a phenomenal time. Love how the interior decor is laid out, such great intimate lighting. Our server Sarah was so nice and personal, definitely enjoyed her conversation. What really stood out was her unique customer service, walked my partner to the bathroom door to show her where it was located but provide a level of safety. I want to come back to try their brunch menu!

El Presidente, nestled in the vibrant NoMa neighborhood of Washington DC, provides a unique dining experience that transports guests back to the spirited and elegant parties of the 1970s. This restaurant stands out not only for its authentic Latin cuisine but also for its exceptionally festive decorations that capture the essence of a bygone era, making every visit feel like a special occasion. The drink menu at El Presidente is nothing short of spectacular, with their margaritas deserving special mention. Both the classic and pineapple margaritas are crafted to perfection, offering a balance of flavors that are refreshing and genuinely exceptional, setting a high bar for cocktail excellence. Service at El Presidente is exemplary, with a waiter staff that excels in both helpfulness and knowledge. They play a significant role in enhancing the dining experience, offering recommendations and insights into the menu that ensure guests make the perfect choice to suit their tastes. The culinary journey begins with an outstanding chicken soup, which is praised for its depth of flavor and comforting qualities. It serves as an excellent introduction to the menu's rich and diverse offerings. A standout dish that truly captures the essence of El Presidente's innovative approach to Latin cuisine is the black bean enchiladas. This dish is a revelation for many, offering a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas. The black beans provide a hearty and flavorful base, making the dish both satisfying and memorable. In summary, El Presidente is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking high-quality Latin cuisine in a setting that combines festive decorations with a throwback to the glamour of the 1970s. From the exceptional drinks to the attentive service and innovative dishes, El Presidente promises an unforgettable dining experience that leaves guests eager to return.

The first thing that will strike you about this place is the decor. The location is colorful and reminds me of something you’d find in New Orleans. The food was good but we had a little trouble with our server who seemed a bit confused. He messed up the appetizer on one order. My entree came very late, after everyone had finished eating theirs. Don’t was a tiny bit awkward being the only person eating at that point. I got the crab tostada which was actually more of a shaved vegetable base with a little crab on top. I’ve had the crab tostada at Paraiso and you get a sold base of crab meat topped with vegetables and garnish, so this was disappointing. They should call it a veggie tostada topped with crab opposed to a crab tostada. I was also surprised at how small the drinks were. Overall it was a nice experience. I’d go again, but my expectations would be lower.

The service was excellent, our server really went above and beyond. Loved the atmosphere although it a bit loud. The red snapper chicharrón was the highlight of the meal nice and crispy with a kick from the habanero and sauces it was amazing. The aqua chile was really good just wish it was served with different chips the ones that came with them were really burnt. The chorizo queso which isn’t pictured because it got devoured as soon as it hit the table was also very delicious. Drinks were tasty also I would definitely come back here.

Loved it! I think the service can a little better! Food is great 10/10. Went there to celebrate a friends birthday! The servers accidentally trashed are food to go! The fish is delicious! Steak tacos!