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dLeña - Chef Table, Washington, DC

dLeña - Chef Table

5.0
5
47 Reviews
$50 and over
Contemporary Mexican
Join dLeña, as featured in the 2022 edition of The MICHELIN Guide DC, at our signature chef’s table tucked behind the main bar with an exquisite leather banquette facing directly into the open kitchen. Chef will prepare eight courses for 160.00 per guest, with an optional beverage pairing for 75.00 per guest. Each of our guests will receive a take-home surprise to enjoy the morning after. ¡Salud!

Make a reservation

2 people

11:00 p.m.


Experiences are available.

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Price
    $50 and over
  • Cuisines
    Contemporary Mexican
  • Hours of Operation
    Tue–Thu 5:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–11:00 pm
  • Phone number
    (202) 560-5999
  • Dress Code
    Smart Casual

Experiences

  • Chef's Table Experience

    US$160.00 per person

    Prepaid

    Multiple dates available
    Indulge in a luxury chef’s table experience Tuesday through Saturday nights. With two seatings per night at 5:15pm and 7:30pm Tuesday through Thursday and 5:15pm and 8:15pm Friday and Saturday nights, chef’s table diners will enjoy an eight-course menu for $160 per person with an option for a coursed beverage pairings for $75. Enjoy off-menu items and other surprises. dLeña’s chef’s table is located behind the main bar with an exquisite leather banquette facing directly into the open kitchen. The perfect all-inclusive experience for a birthday, anniversary, proposal, or gathering with loved ones. *Please note no menu substitutions will be allowed & we will not be able to accommodate dietary restrictions*
    Chef's Table Experience photo

What 47 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

5.0
5 based on recent ratings
  • 5Food
  • 5Service
  • 5Ambience
  • 4.9Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • Washington, D.C. Area

    Best Overall

  • Washington, D.C. Area

    Best Food

  • Washington, D.C. Area

    Best Ambience

  • Washington, D.C. Area

    Best Value

  • Washington, D.C. Area

    Hot spot

  • Washington, D.C. Area

    Good for special occasions

  • District of Columbia

    Best Overall

  • District of Columbia

    Best Food

  • District of Columbia

    Best Service

  • District of Columbia

    Best Ambience

  • District of Columbia

    Best Value

  • District of Columbia

    Innovative

  • District of Columbia

    Hot spot

  • District of Columbia

    Good for special occasions

47 Reviews
  1. JustinR

    Baltimore

    7 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The Chefs Table experience was amazing! If you want an experience that makes you feel super special, with a unique and tailored menu, this place is for you. Chef Carlos was super attentive and the food he put out was high quality and extremely flavorful. If you enjoy a nice drink with your meal, the wine pairing option is a must with your meal. Our server, Deja, was amazing as well. She explained the drink pairing, with the courses, and ensured our table and utensils were reset in between. Overall, this was an amazing experience and worth the money spent!

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  2. Matt

    Richmond

    38 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    38 reviews

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Outstanding experience. Fantastic food presented as art. Highly recommend chefs table with wine pairings!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded 7 days ago

    We're so pleased you enjoyed the Chef's tasting experience and wine pairing, as well as our Executive Chef Carlos! It is always an honor for us to share with our guests the inspiration behind every dish we create and present. We hope to welcome you back soon for another amazing culinary journey!

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  3. jason

    San Francisco

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on November 11, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing experience - the meal was exceptional by Chef Camacho; service and hospitality inviting by Katja and Josh. Can’t remember a better dinner experience.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on November 14, 2023

    Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us at dLeña, Jason! We are so thrilled to hear that Chef Camacho's presentations, and Katja and Josh's hospitality were exceptional. It is truly our pleasure to offer amazing experiences to our guests. We hope that you remember many more fantastic dinner moments, and thank you for your kind review - we always love to make each visit unforgettable!

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  4. OpenTable Diner

    Greater Boston

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 11, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Everything from the staff’s welcome to the desert was top-notch. The restaurant was loud to us, but the other customers seemed to enjoy the energy. We would certainly return and recommend the chef’s table experience in the future.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded 7 days ago

    We're so grateful ~ thank you for sharing! It’s great to hear how much you loved your overall experience and the energetic vibe at dLena ! We pride ourselves on presenting exceptional dishes and drinks from start to finish and appreciate you letting us know you will return and recommend the Chef's Table experience!

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  5. EandJ

    Washington DC

    10 reviews

    5.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on November 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    What a masterpiece! Hubby and I had a fantastic anniversary dinner.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on November 19, 2023

    Thank you for leaving such a wonderful review, EandJ! We are so thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your spectacular annivaersary night at dLeña. It truly means the world to us when our guests appreciate our excellent service and beautiful ambience!

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  6. ChefsTableExperience

    New York Area

    13 reviews

    5.0

    13 reviews

    Dined on October 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This dining experience requires a thesaurus - we need a better word than outstanding or incredible. We have been to a lot of fine dining and wonderful tasting experiences. This one offers something different! We were comfortably ensconced in our own extremely comfortable curved booth ‘inside’ the service area. This is a busy popular high end restaurant with a generous menu, and we got to see this amazing hard working talented group of people come together and put out gorgeous dish after gorgeous dish. Getting to see the marriage of technology with the traditional to turn out these dishes was just amazing. Our experience was perfection - from the moment we arrived and were greeted. The server assigned to us could not have been better. And CHEF”S FOOD, this is the only time I will use all caps :D you have to be there to understand how having someone of this quality, make your food in front of you, present it to you, and then you get to taste something really exceptional all comes together to make for a perfect bite - just does not get any better. Highly highly recommend!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on October 28, 2023

    Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We are so excited that you had a fantastic experience with us at dLeña. We are thrilled to hear about your positive impression of our grand ambience, service, and--of course--our incredible offerings! We truly appreciate you noting our unique blend of traditional and modern methods and ingredients. Chef's creativity really does show through each dish, and we are happy it left such an excellent impression on you. We are pleased to know that we succeeded in providing the perfect bite for you! Thank you again from all of us here at dLeña for giving us a chance to serve you; we look forward to seeing you the next time your travels bring you back our way!

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  7. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    1 review

    vip
    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This was an amazing dining experience. Engaging experience with the chef and very attentive wait staff! All the food in each course was a work of art and creativity! Delicious and entertaining!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on October 8, 2023

    We are humbled that you think so highly of both our unique delicious dishes and vibrant presentations during your Chefs Table experience. We're so pleased to hear our Chef was able to provide you with an incredible engaging and personable experience. On behalf of the entire dLeña team, thank you for your generous review and recommendation; we look forward to hosting you again soon!

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  8. Derrick

    Washington DC

    8 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on September 30, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Head Chef Carlos was amazing. The best experience ever.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on October 4, 2023

    Hi Derrick, we are so delighted to hear that you enjoyed our fabulous Chef's Table. Chef Carlos is so passionate when it comes to creating authentic, innovative dishes that exceed expectations and we’re so proud that you had such an exceptional experience. On behalf of the entire dLeña team, thank you for your generous review and recommendation; we hope to welcome you back soon for another wonderful culinary journey!

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  9. OpenTable Diner

    Miami - Dade

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    It was an amazing experience, and I enjoyed every course served. The chef had a great attitude and made us feel special.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on September 22, 2023

    We are humbled that you think so highly of both our unique delicious dishes and vibrant courses. We're so pleased to hear our Chef was able to provide you with an incredible engaging and personable experience. On behalf of the entire dLeña team, thank you for your generous review and recommendation; we look forward to hosting you again soon!

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  10. HARs

    Washington DC

    15 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    15 reviews

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    What a surprise!! When we checked into our reservation for the chef's table experience, we were taken to our private table facing the kitchen, and we then had the most amazing experience with us, the chef and the kitchen!! The food we were served was amazing - every course was uniquely different and delicious. Then on to the Speakeasy with the wonderful jazz band and cozy atmosphere. It was definitely a wonderful and special date night. Thank you Chef, Josh, and all who participated in making this a truly exceptional evening!!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on September 17, 2023

    Thank you for taking the time to review dLeña and making your special evening with us! We are so elated that from the moment you first checked in, you felt welcomed into an incredible birthday experience. Our Chef's Table team is always focused on crafting impeccable dishes to make sure every guest has an incredible experience. We also appreciate your comments on our speakeasy, Roja. it's an evening full of great music and intimate vibes. Just like our Chef's Table, it is meant to be a unique, extraordinary experience. We look forward to welcoming you back soon--we know your next visit will be as exceptional as this one!

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  11. NinoK

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 6, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had a birthday celebration and our experience was exceptional! The chef and his support staff were fantastic, very attentive and engaging! The chef was answering our questions, providing some background stories, and making sure we were having a great time. Our server, Troy was fantastic as well / energetic, positive, very engaging and attentive to details. We left the restaurant happy, relaxed and impressed by food as well! We loved the fact that the most of the dishes were reflective of the chef’s background, brining authentic Mexican cooking into the mix. Long story short - highly recommended. Food, ambiance, service staff - everything was great!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on September 8, 2023

    Hi Nino, we are so pleased to hear that your birthday celebration experience was exceptional. Your kind words about our Chef and support staff were immensely appreciated - we couldn't be happier that their attention and hospitality contributed to your wonderful time. Also, kudos to Troy for being such an energetic, attentive server - he is a valued member of our team. It means so much to us that Chef's passionate commitment to authentic Mexican cuisine translates into a special, memorable experience for our guests! We hope to welcome you back soon for another wonderful culinary journey!

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  12. Omar

    Washington DC

    7 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on August 30, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    What a great time. I've told everyone about the experience today. Will be returning.

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  13. OpenTable Diner

    Cleveland

    2 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 24, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We dined at the chef’s table and had an unforgettable outstanding experience. We had very personal service and attention. Fabulous food. Overall a wonderful evening.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on August 29, 2023

    Wow! We're thrilled that you were able to indulge in the unique flavors and stunning creations crafted at our Chefs Table. Our team makes it a top priority to deliver impeccable service and create unforgettable moments just for you. Your generous words of appreciation mean the world to us and we look forward to hosting you again soon and exceeding your expectations once more!

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  14. GeorgeB

    Washington DC

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing experience! My wife and I felt very well taken care of and the table was directly in front of the kitchen to view the action. The flavors and presentation of the dishes were excellent, would go again easily!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on August 21, 2023

    Our charming Chefs Table and kitchen view, vibrant presentations, and attentive service have been the cornerstone of dLeña for many years, so hearing that our services have exceeded your standards is truly gratifying. We value your feedback and take it as a compliment when we receive such high praise. We hope to welcome you back soon for another enjoyable evening at dLeña. Thank you again for your five star recommendation!

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  15. Kitty

    Charlotte

    3 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on July 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Exceptional all around. Shouldn’t be missed as a DC experience. The service, ambiance, food, presentation, and overall dining theater was a delight.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on July 30, 2023

    Hi Kitty! Thank you for choosing dLeña for your special dining experience in DC! We are so pleased to hear that everything from our service, ambiance, food, presentation, and the overall dining theater exceeded your expectations. Our goal is to provide a memorable encounter and it sounds like we've hit the mark! Thank you for recommending dLena as a must-not-miss experience and we look forward to welcoming you again soon.

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  16. CelinaC

    Washington DC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Incredible experience booking the chef's table! Each dish was beautifully executed and the service was phenomenal. Highly recommend booking the chef's table and dlena in general!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on July 29, 2023

    Hello Celina, Yes! It's amazing to see that you had an incredible experience at dLeña's Chefs Table. We are so thrilled to hear that both the exquisite dishes and the impeccable service surpassed your expectations. At dLeña, we pride ourselves on giving our guests unforgettable experiences! On behalf of the entire dLeña team, thank you for your generous review and recommendation; we hope to welcome you back soon for another wonderful culinary journey!

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  17. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    An Amazing culinary treat and Adventure…. A MUST do again

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on July 17, 2023

    We're thrilled to have provided you with a five star experience, and we can't wait for your next visit! Every time you come through our doors, you’ll discover something new and exhilarating - so get ready for another unforgettable culinary adventure!

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  18. PatrickC

    New York Area

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on July 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing dinning experience. It was the highlight of our trip to Washington DC.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on August 29, 2023

    Hello Patrick! Thank you for your kind words and taking the time to review dLeña! Your feedback is very important and we are so happy to hear that you had an amazing experience from start to finish! We're honored that we were the highlight on your trip to DC!

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  19. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    What an incredible experience. The GM and the Chef made us feel like we were apart of their very own family. The food was unforgettable. We will definitely go back. We actually finished the 8 course meal and wanted to try to signature dishes. The Wagyu Empanadas and the Short rib tacos. Definitely worth staying a little longer for. Can’t tell you how wonderful everything was. Highly recommend this experience to all

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on July 17, 2023

    Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience with us at dLeña. We are absolutely thrilled that you and your party enjoyed the 8-course meal, as well as the signature dishes (Wagyu Empanadas and Short rib tacos). It was a pleasure to have you join us and we are so happy that you felt like part of our family! Your high recommendation will surely inspire others to reserve and enjoy what our Chef's Table has to offer. Our team is delighted to have received such commendable remarks. We look forward to making your next visit even more amazing ~ ¡Salud!

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  20. OpenTable Diner

    Nashville

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on June 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Absolutely amazing, food, service, ambiance, everything. We will be back.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on July 1, 2023

    Thank you so much for your terrific review of dLeña! We are delighted to hear that your experience was unforgettable and that our Chefs Table was such a highlight. Your satisfaction is our priority and it’s a pleasure we were able to impress you with such an outstanding visit!

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  21. NickB

    Washington DC

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on June 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Fantastic experience at the Chef’s table. Amazing food and service and it was great to have a very personalized experience with perfect dishes. Highly recommend!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on July 11, 2023

    Hello Nick, thank you so much for your terrific review of dLeña! We are delighted to hear that your experience was unforgettable and that our Chefs Table was such a highlight. Your satisfaction is our priority and it’s a pleasure we were able to impress you with such an outstanding visit!

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  22. NewportNightOut

    Nashville

    5 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on June 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Chef‘s table was phenomenal! Private luxurious table,, amazing service, unbelievable food, perfect wine, pairings, and exquisite detail in preparation. A singularly unique experience.

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  23. AK23

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on June 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Honestly, one of the best meals I’ve ever had in DC and maybe one of the best Chefs Table experiences I’ve ever had anywhere. Chef Carlos was so gracious and incredibly skilled with the menu - it’s clear he loves what he does and i loved hearing about where the recipes came from. My favorite ended up being one that was his mothers original recipe - just pure magic. Every course was AMAZING! Can’t recommend highly enough!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on June 27, 2023

    We're so pleased you enjoyed your Chef's tasting experience and wine pairing, as well as the "pure magic" shared by Chef Carlos. It is always an honor for us to share with our guests the inspiration behind every recipe and dish we serve. We hope to welcome you back soon for another amazing culinary journey!

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  24. Brucet

    Washington DC

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on June 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    It was the best food journey that I’ve ever experienced. It’s like all of the dishes were evaluated, but the chef, Carlos, was able to keep it simple and clean. The hosted Cindy was spectacular, and the server provided excellent customer service and detailed knowledge of our wine paring. dLena is a great restaurant, and sitting at the chef's table was the best. The chef explained every dish and even spoke about his personal experience as a chef. I would but this as one of the best restaurants in DC.

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  25. KiwiBubbles

    Washington DC

    20 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    20 reviews

    Dined on May 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The dLeña chef’s table is one of the most delicious and memorable dining experiences I’ve ever had — and I’m including Michelin. It’s impossible to say which dish was my favorite, and I hate to spoil it for those who choose to indulge and trust the chef’s skill and curation. Don’t wait for a special occasion— make this the special occasion!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on May 30, 2023

    Thank you so much for joining us at dLeña's Chef's Table! We really appreciate you taking the time to leave us feedback. It means the world to us! We hope you can join us again in the future for brunch or lunch. Cheers!

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  26. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    1 review

    vip
    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    It was so good and felt like it was a very private event for me andy date. We enjoyed our courses and the explanation from the chef.... Will definitely do this again

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on May 30, 2023

    So glad you enjoyed everything, thanks so much for taking the time to leave us a review. We hope to welcome you back to dLeña in the future.

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  27. OpenTable Diner

    Indiana

    3 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on May 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    One of the best tasting menu experiences I’ve ever had. Sitting at a table in the kitchen, watching the chefs work and having the chef explain each dish was truly incredible. The service was spectacular, chef Carlos, Isabella, and the GM Josh treated us incredibly well. If you are looking for a delicious, unique and personal dining experience this is definitely it!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on May 30, 2023

    Wow, thank you so much for your kind words! We hope we have the pleasure of welcoming you back to dLeña in the near future.

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  28. TenRocke

    Nashville

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Took my mom to the Chefs Table experience at DLena and it did not disappoint!!! Every literal thing about this experience, from the service, the presentation, the quality of the food, and the timing of the courses was perfection. Would book again for future guests!

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  29. Erocka2008

    Baltimore

    11 reviews

    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on May 11, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    One of the best dining experiences I have ever had. 20/10 reccomend! From the service, to the food, to the drinks - you will not be disappointed!

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  30. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We were celebrating our 13 year Anniversary and the chef was amazing and the food superb! The Manager and Host seemed to pride themselves in customer service and we received VIP treatment, while attending the chef experience. While facing the kitchen in a secluded table behind the bar, facing the kitchen we were able to view the preparation of all the meals. The culinary team considered their presentation as an art and we agree it was exquisite. We will definitely recommend this establishment to anyone looking for a special place to eat and or chill downstairs and listen to some live music!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on April 28, 2023

    We are so excited that your time with us was nothing less than “exquisite”. We strive to go above and beyond to ensure you have an unforgettable memory of such a special occasion! Thank you for recommending us to your friends-we would be delighted to host them as well. Again, we thank you for your wonderful review and look forward to hosting you in the future!

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  31. SarahL

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We experienced the chefs table and ABSOLUTELY loved it! Chef was engaging and the General Manager was as well. Teaching us about the restaurant and the kitchen. It was a great experience and the food was incredible. We will definitely be back to try the regular menu as well.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on April 28, 2023

    Hello Sarah, Thank you so much for choosing to celebrate your special occasion at our Chef's Table! We are honored to have been part of such an important milestone in your life. We take great pride in providing an over the top, exceptional experience to celebrate you! Thank you for being our special guest!

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  32. YericaC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food, service and overall wonderful experience. Isabella one of the managers was super friendly and helpful. Both Chef Carlos and Victor were also very friendly & the food was absolutely delicious. Nice size portions for each course, not too little but not too much! Again overall great experience and would definitely recommend.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on April 28, 2023

    Hello Yerica! We're so delighted to hear Isabella, Chef Carlos and Victor were able to create a stunning memorable evening for you, and we are so appreciative of your kind words. We cannot thank you enough for taking the time to leave us this review, and we look forward to welcoming you back again soon!

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  33. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    1 review

    vip
    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on March 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My husband and I had a fantastic experience at the chef’s table last night. Everyone we interacted with on their team was amazing; they really made us feel special. The food was incredible - every single one of the eight dishes that was perfect and unique. The flavors were out of this world. I especially liked the oyster and the ceviche. My husband loved the tostada. The mezcal tres leches cake was the perfect ending. And OMG the grape chimichurri sauce. The service was fantastic. Like I said, every single person we interacted with was friendly and knowledgeable. The executive chef really knows his stuff and it was fun to get to engage with him at the chefs table. You can tell he is really passionate about his job and is great at it. The value for what you get was spot on. We were definitely full by the end but not overly. The timing and the sequence of the dishes was well thought out. We started at 7:30 pm and were done by about 9:45 - not super long and drawn out which we prefer. We could have stayed and had more drinks but it was a weeknight. They also have a tequila lounge downstairs which we will definitely have drinks at next time. There was even a small gift from them at the end which was also perfectly executed - Mexican coffee and a beautiful coffee mug to enjoy the next morning. Even the branding and packaging of the coffee gift was super luxe and well done. I love the the idea of coffee next morning versus more dessert later that night( we have done those tastings where they send you away with yet more macaroons. Who wants that?) You can tell that a lot of thought and care went into making the whole experience special. This was one of the best tasting menu experiences we have ever had. Mind you, we’ve done tastings in Paris and Napa and pretty much all over the world - the chefs table at dLeña was hands down the best. My husband joking called it “The Mexican Laundry” (if you know, you know) We can’t wait to come back!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on April 6, 2023

    Thank you for your fabulous review of dLeña, it's so wonderful to hear that your experience dining with us was one to remember! What an honor to know that you enjoyed the Chef's Table and that it exceeds expectations for all of your tasting experiences around the world. Your feedback is a true credit to our chefs' talent and passion for delivering only the best to our guests. We look forward to welcoming you back in the future!

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  34. joshv517

    Greater Boston

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on March 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Wow, what a memorable experience! My review will contain spoilers for the Chef's Table experience - you have been warned! Upon checking in, we were greeted by the manager (Josh), who welcomed us to the restaurant, took our coats, and escorted us to our table. To our surprise, we quickly realized that the Chef's Table is an incredibly intimate end exclusive experience because there was only one table! Josh introduced us to Carlos Camacho (executive chef) and Chris (wine pairing guide extraordinaire). Food: I'll label the photos that accompany the review with the dish names; however, Carlos does create new menus throughout the year, and we came in at the end of the Winter menu. As we worked through each dish, we were impressed with how the flavors included in the dish paired with each other. Clearly, Carlos focuses on creating cohesive dishes, while paying careful attention to each component separately. Do yourself a favor and take small bites during each course. Try the components of each dish (especially the sauces!) and take bites with all the components together. What Carlos is doing here is really impressive. I'll also add that I'm not generally a fan of peaches or lamb, but the way Carlos used both ingredients in this menu are my favorite preparations of either that I have ever had. Who knew lamb could be so good?! We were also impressed with how Carlos is using local ingredients across his dishes that show a beautiful range of Latin American cooking. Wine: We did the beverage pairing with our meal; all the pairings were wine, so if you are not a wine fan, take note. Chris was on his game all night, quickly following Carlos with the pairings for the course (there was a pairing with each dish). Chris was very familiar with the menu and the different tastes and components of each dish. In addition to describing the notes of each wine, he explained why each wine was chosen with each dish (there were often multiple tie-ins).

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on April 6, 2023

    Wow! We are absolutely thrilled that you had an amazing dining experience at dLena's Chefs Table. Chef Carlos makes sure each dish is masterfully crafted with a keen focus on the little things that really make a difference, like the pairing of exceptional wine. The flavors are a delightful explosion of Mexican culture and every presentation is a work of art on its own. We are so grateful for your high recommendation!

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  35. JudiM

    Washington DC

    2 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on March 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Absolutely outstanding experience - beginning to end.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on April 6, 2023

    Hello Judi, thank you so much for your terrific review of dLeña! We are delighted to hear that your experience was unforgettable and that our Chefs Table was such a highlight. Your satisfaction is our priority and it’s a pleasure we were able to impress you with such an outstanding visit!

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  36. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on February 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The chefs table was an incredible experience! Your private booth faces the kitchen and Chef personally plates every dish that touched the table. It was exceptional service and delicious food that makes me excited for my next meal there.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on April 6, 2023

    Thank you for the amazing review of your Chefs Table experience! It's wonderful to know that you thoroughly enjoyed your time with us and appreciate Chef's personal attention. Your enthusiasm for dLeña is so encouraging and we look forward to seeing you for another culinary adventure soon!

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  37. FoxCfox

    Washington DC

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on February 15, 2023

    overall5food4service4ambience5
    I really enjoyed the grilled peach salad and ceviche.

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  38. DCJeffe

    Washington DC

    10 reviews

    5.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on February 11, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    What an amazing experience! Truly like “flying first class” with such a unique and wonderful setting, menu and team. From the General Manager greeting us at the door, the evening unfolded with care and detail. We won’t spoil the little surprises, but it was one delightful moment after next. We really didn’t want to leave and stayed at the bar for a final drink(or two). Shoutouts to the chef, our waiter/mixologist, and to the hustle and skill behind the grille stations. So cool to watch it all come together. Can’t recommend this experience enough and we will be back!

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on April 6, 2023

    Hello DCJeffe! We're so pleased you enjoyed your Chefs tasting experience and Chef Carlos' passion and expertise It is always an honor for us to share with you the inspiration behind every dish we serve. On behalf of the entire dLeña team, thank you for your kind review and recommendation; we hope to welcome you back soon for another wonderful culinary journey!

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  39. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    8 reviews

    3.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on February 10, 2023

    overall3food2service4ambience4
    Overall a fun time. General manager is pleasant and made us feel welcome. The chef was also friendly and gave good descriptions of each dish. Our server was pretty attentive and overall took good care of us. The food was ok, not remarkable. We found most of the sauce work to be on the weaker, bland side, especially considering how these sauces are typically packed with flavor in other comparable restaurants. No particular dish was necessarily bad, but there weren’t many highlights. The best dish of the night was the duck confit taco. We found that many of the dishes tended to have a smoky note to them, likely from being surrounded by the other grilled dishes and same cooking equipment. This wasn’t bad in the beginning, but as that flavor kept appearing, the food started tasting one-not/monotonous. The tuna ceviche dish initially had good potential as the tuna was of high quality, but a few bites in, there was an overwhelming amount of sweetness coming from the sweet potatoes and sweet potato espuma. The lamb rack finale looked like there was no way that it wouldn’t be intense in flavor since it was seasoned, cooked, flambéed with mezcal seasoned sauce, doused with a glaze, and then covered with another sauce/chutney. It somehow still managed to be weak on flavor. The grilled peppers on top of the lamb were really flavorful, which made it surprising that the lamb wasn’t. Dessert was ok, it was their take on tres leches. Again, it was ok, but certainly nothing to write home about. Their a la carte menu might be a better way to give this a shot. You’ll likely have fun with this experience and it will feel novel, but I don’t think you’ll have a great meal.

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  40. Josh

    Washington DC

    10 reviews

    5.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on February 1, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My wife and I recently became very fond of latin cuisine, so we decided on dLena for my birthday celebration, based on a friend’s recommendation. Out of all the restaurants in DC, they offered an affordable yet exquisite chefs tasting experience and wine pairing. Wow! Were we in for a treat. The chefs table is in a private, cosy nook overlooking the amazing wood fired kitchen. We were attended to by the general manager, Cindy Contreras, who was on point to our every need. Shannon, our bar tender, was outstanding as well. However, the best was yet to come. During the experience, we engaged directly with Executive Chef Carlos Camacho, as he explained his inspiration behind every dish he served. We were humbled to be given an opportunity to remark on his dishes, which by the way, were locally sourced and outstanding in quality. They even had a surprise dessert for my birthday. A quintessential moment was at the end of service, when they handed us a gift box to be opened the morning after. All in all, it was a memory and experience to treasure long into the future and we highly recommend you reserve your spot at dLena for your next special occasion.

    dLeña - Chef TableResponded on April 6, 2023

    Hello Josh, thank you for visiting dLeña's Chefs Table and for your kind words about your unique experience! We are so delighted you absolutely enjoyed the opportunity to engage with Executive Chef Carlos while indulging in exquisitely crafted dishes. Our team is so excited that you and your wife enjoyed the surprise dessert we prepared for your birthday celebration - it was our pleasure to be a part of your special evening.

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FAQs

dLeña - Chef Table is rated 5 stars by 47 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

11:00 p.m.


Experiences are available.
Google Map for dLeña - Chef Table

476 K St NW, Washington, DC 20001-2531

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Cross Street
    5th Street and K Street NW
  • Neighbourhood
    Mount Vernon Square
  • Hours of Operation
    Tue–Thu 5:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–11:00 pm
  • Price
    $50 and over
  • Cuisines
    Contemporary Mexican
  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Dress Code
    Smart Casual
  • Parking Details
    Street Parking
  • Additional
    Chef's Table
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