Eunoia — Restaurant in Washington

A Union Market standout, Eunoia is already one of DC’s best.

Eunoia is the kind of restaurant that makes you stop mid-bite, look at your dining partner, and just nod because words feel inadequate. Chef Josa Maldonado, trained at The French Laundry (3 Michelin stars), Pujol (2 stars) and Jatak (1 star), is crafting something truly special here. His fusion of Mexican, Bulgarian and Japanese influences with nods to the Mid-Atlantic is not just clever, it is soulful, bold and deeply thought-out. Each dish feels like a conversation between cultures, elevated by seasonal ingredients and an evolving menu that always promises something new.

From the very first amuse bouche to the unexpected gifts from the kitchen throughout the night, it is clear this team loves hospitality and understands the magic of surprise and delight.

The beverage program is just as impressive. Beverage Manager Alexa has curated an incredible wine list that perfectly matches the menu’s creativity and nuance. Bar Manager Chris built an incredible cocktail menu with precision and personality, delivering drinks that are as beautifully balanced as they are inventive. The other bartenders Enzo and Jose could not be more friendly and inviting.

Service is warm, attentive and genuinely excited about the food they are presenting, which makes the experience feel even more special.

Union Market has no shortage of great dining spots, but Eunoia is operating on another level. If you love culinary storytelling, impeccable execution and a dining experience that feels both world-class and personal, this is a must-visit.

Highly recommended, and already a contender for one of DC’s most exciting new...

Out of this world experience.

We came in on a Sunday night and started off strong with some wonderful cocktails. The Fig and Dill cocktail and Sangria are both incredibly tasty.

First served a rice cracker amuse bouche, we could tell we were in for something special. Out came our orders — the seaweed mole that left us wanting more; the stone soup that was equally earthy and rich but also refreshing; the barbella eggplant dish that made us feel like we haven’t had eggplant cooked correctly before; and the Denver steak and savory au jus that had us wanting to lick the plate clean—not a bad dish in the bunch at all!

Followed with dessert — a palate cleanse of chipotle ice cream in two miniature cones, propped up in corn kernels and then a chocolate bonbon with hazelnut miso and some additional raspberry ice cream — it was the perfect amount.

Coupled with great, friendly service at a perfect pace — this is the kind of place you shouldn’t hesitate to try. Bring your family, friends, and anyone else who appreciates great flavors.

We certainly will be back to enjoy other seasonal menus and the happy hour too!

You...

For the life of me I can't figure out how this place isn't a 4.8+ on Google reviews.

Food is clever and creative and has the kind of deeply satisfying brain scratch that has you double taking and wondering what the hell they put in there (thinking of you scallop aguachile that is somehow salty, citrus, savory all the same time). Absolutely has the best espresso martini in DC and the wine list is uncommon, thoughtful, affordable and filled with bangers.

Service does the thing where it's warm, casual, welcoming and you ask a question about anything and youll receive a response so thoughtful and knowledgeable it makes you want to take notes.

Only gripe is the overhead lighting could be dimmed and the hue of the light made to be more amber or yellow (warm) vs white (cold). But ya, this is a restaurant for people who like...