Cafe Atlantico

I really wanted to like this restaurant after all of the hype (and I love to dine out here in DC); however, my expectations fell flat when I made a reservation. The service was terrible. The waiter couldn’t be bothered, the bar tenders were rude and not knowledgeable or helpful in any way. The food was not tasty and way overpriced. You can do much better in DC. Try the Capitol Brewery or Zengo just around the corner. more

If I was basing this review just on the Minibar then it would be four stars, but for the restaurant as a whole the place is merely good. The dishes are definitely different than what one may be used to, but sometimes they seem to lack that little something that makes you want to try it again. So skip the main restaurant and do the Minibar. If you like seeing food in a new light which is interesting and tasty then this should be your only option here. 30 mini-tastings of different items ranging from foie gras with cotton candy to a deconstructed Caesar salad. Actually when I went we didn't even get a chance to try all 30 dishes as my wife had an allergic reaction to something which prompted us to leave to seek a remedy. They were quite gracious and only charged us for one person even though I didn't ask for that and they followed up with a call to see if everything was alright. Oh... be sure to get the mojitos here... they're quite good. more

One of my favorite places to dine in DC, and my favorite of all of Jose Andres' restaurants! I first went to Cafe Atlantico for its Latino Dim Sum (on weekends). The small plates of unique bite-size creations are miniature pieces of art! Guacamole is made fresh tableside, and the mojitos and caiprinhas are fantastic. If you are foodie, MiniBar is a must do - a six-seat dining experience where miniature creations are made right before your very eyes! Highly recommend. more

This is a great date place. The atmosphere is here is so charming. I love the staff, they are so sweet and attentive. The food is also great. Everything is of superb quality. You should give this place try if you have someone special in your life. You will understand after a romantic night with the great food and ambiance. more

Cafe Atlantico on 8th St. is a wonderful, quirky space whose chef, Jose Andreas, is happy to introduce you to Latin American cuisine at its finest. From the guacamole made table-side to the dangerously good caipiranhas, everything at Cafe Atlantico is designed to indulge your sense and enrich your experience of this marvelous cuisine. The crowd ranges from the young and hip, dressed in black, to the older, more refined culinary set. Don't be afraid to bring guests from out-of-town to this open-feeling 3 story restaurant. more

My wife and I have gone to Cafe Atlantico for four Valentine's Days in a row now and highly recommend it for a special occasion. The ambience, food, location are great for an evening out. While we're not able to afford to go for anything other than a special occasion, we would highly recommend it. more