Tango Pastry — Restaurant in Virginia

A Taste of Buenos Aires on H Street: A Review of Tango Pastry

Tango Pastry, the newest gem to grace H Street NE in Washington, D.C., is a truly elegant and soulful addition to the city’s culinary scene. This Argentinean bakery and café delivers more than just food—it offers an experience steeped in authenticity, warmth, and unmistakable South American charm.

From the moment you walk in, the ambiance is unmistakably Argentinean—cozy yet vibrant, evoking the feel of a beloved neighborhood café in Buenos Aires. Chef Katriel and his wife greet each guest with heartfelt hospitality, ensuring that even on a bustling day, service remains prompt, personal, and warm. Their presence adds a familial touch, making customers feel as though they’ve stepped into a cherished local institution rather than a new opening.

The empanadas are nothing short of exceptional. The meat empanadas, with their rich, seasoned filling and perfectly golden crust, offer that classic Argentine flavor that instantly transports you to the Pampas. The ham and cheese empanadas are equally delectable—melting, savory, and utterly satisfying. Each bite reflects thoughtful preparation and respect for tradition.

Tango Pastry’s facturas—Argentina’s beloved pastries—are a rare find in D.C. and a true highlight of the menu. The quince and crema pastelera varieties are delicate, sweet, and deeply pleasurable, each offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The croissants, both plain and filled with dulce de leche, are buttery, rich, and indulgent, crafted with an artisanal touch that would impress even the most discerning pastry lover.

In a city rich with culinary options, Tango Pastry offers something distinctly rare: a heartfelt, genuine slice of Argentine culture. It's a place where tradition is honored, flavors are celebrated, and community is built—one pastry at a time. H Street is now home to a little piece of Argentina, and it's absolutely worth the visit.

Follow up Visit June 4 2025: Had a Choripan,...

Refreshing cafe tucked away cozily in a Days Inn. New ownership has reimagined the interior and added a patio with shaded seating. The interior has seating as well, is very welcoming, and has a cool relaxing feel to it. The current owner (Mr. Katriel Menedez) is a trained Argentian chef who has reformatted the menu with savory dishes and delicious sweets in addition to espresso drinks. Tango historically served Argentian fare and was quite good but Mr. Menendez is truly building something special.

The Argentian pizza was surprisingly light and very delicious/flavorful, the empanadas contained well seasoned meat and were wrapped in delectable pastry, and the steak sandwich was bedded in a large home made roll and accompanied by two sunny side up eggs. The pastries are light and sweet. Anything they make with Dulce de leche is great! Staff including Mr. Menendez are warm and welcoming. I look forward to going back every...

Tango Bakery is a welcome addition to H Street NE. Open Wednesday-Friday from 7am to 5pm and 8am-5pm on weekends, it's a space that serves Latin American pastries to empanadas and coffee. Popping in on a Wednesday morning, here's my experience.

1. Food: The beef empanada and the ham and cheese one were good. My favorite is the beef with the green chimichurri sauce along the condiment bar. (There are three kinds of sauce. Be careful as the bottles are oily.)

2. Drinks: My dulce de leche latte was great! It comes with a large swirl of the leche to mix into the drink making it the right sweetness.

3. Service: The man behind the corner was friendly and attentive. Despite other customers, the wait wasn't long for my latte and empanadas warmed up.

4. Space: It's one room with different places to sit. It's a cozy spot to...