Excellent food, great atmosphere! We tried a bunch of different things as a table and we had a great time for a friendβs birthday. I can highly recommend the short rib w/ mole verde, yucca fries, plantains, and tres leches cake! The sangria is one of the best drinks Iβve ever had - bar none! Getting a pitcher for the crew is a total move All the food had a full flavor profile that was really noticeable - you can tell itβs top quality.
Overview
If you're in Washington, D.C., and craving a truly authentic Mexican dining experience, look no further than Paraiso - Mexican Restaurant Taqueria & Mezcaleria. Located at 1101 Pennsylvania Ave. SE Unit 1, Washington, DC 20003, this gem offers more than just great food-it invites you to savor a full Mexican cultural experience with its rich flavors, vibrant ambiance, and diverse menu.
When you walk into Paraiso, you're immediately enveloped by the warm, welcoming atmosphere that combines rustic charm with modern touches. The space is designed to make you feel at home, whether you're enjoying a casual meal with friends or a more intimate dinner. The decor reflects traditional Mexican elements, with vibrant colors, art, and a touch of mezcal-inspired elegance. It's a place where you can unwind and enjoy the little pleasures of life.
The menu at Paraiso is a true celebration of Mexican cuisine, offering a wide variety of dishes that span the diverse regions of Mexico. From tacos to tamales, quesadillas to ceviche, the options are endless and guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. One standout item is the tacos, which are known for their freshness and depth of flavor. Each taco is made with soft, hand-pressed tortillas and topped with carefully prepared fillings that range from succulent grilled meats to refreshing vegetables and rich salsas.
But itβs not just about tacos. The restaurant also offers an impressive selection of mezcal cocktails that pair perfectly with the bold flavors of the dishes. Whether youβre a mezcal connoisseur or a first-timer, the knowledgeable staff at Paraiso will guide you through the extensive list, helping you find the perfect drink to complement your meal. The Mezcaleria section of the restaurant is dedicated to this spirit, and it's easy to see why-mezcal adds a unique smokiness that enhances the overall dining experience.
In addition to the fantastic food and drinks, the service at Paraiso is exceptional. The staff is friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about both the menu and the drinks. Theyβre always eager to offer recommendations, ensuring that every meal is a personalized and enjoyable experience. The restaurantβs commitment to making every guest feel special is evident from the moment you walk in, and itβs a big part of why Paraiso has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
For those with dietary restrictions, Paraiso has you covered as well. The menu includes options for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diners, so everyone can enjoy a delicious meal. And with the restaurantβs emphasis on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, you can feel good about what youβre eating. Every dish is thoughtfully prepared, showcasing the very best of Mexican cuisine with an emphasis on quality and authenticity.
Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., Paraiso - Mexican Restaurant Taqueria & Mezcaleria offers a perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or even a special event. Its prime location makes it easy to visit whether youβre a D.C. local or just passing through. The lively atmosphere and outstanding food make it a top choice for those seeking a true taste of Mexico.
What sets Paraiso apart from other Mexican restaurants in the area is its commitment to authenticity. The restaurant prides itself on serving dishes that honor traditional Mexican recipes, while also embracing modern culinary trends. This balance between old and new makes the dining experience at Paraiso feel fresh and exciting, yet familiar in all the right ways.
Whether youβre craving a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Paraiso - Mexican Restaurant Taqueria & Mezcaleria never disappoints. With its flavorful dishes, expertly crafted cocktails, and inviting atmosphere, itβs the perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Mexican cuisine in Washington, D.C.
Good to know
Service options
β Outdoor seating β Kerbside pickup β Delivery β On-site services β Takeaway β Dine-inHighlights
β Fast service β Great cocktails β Serves local specialtyPopular for
β Lunch β Dinner β Solo diningAccessibility
β Wheelchair-accessible entrance β Wheelchair-accessible seating β Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
β Alcohol β Beer β Cocktails β Coffee β Comfort food β Happy-hour drinks β Happy-hour food β Healthy options β Small plates β Spirits β Vegetarian options β WineDining options
β Breakfast β Brunch β Lunch β Dinner β Catering β Dessert β Seating β Table serviceAmenities
β Bar on site β Gender-neutral toilets β Toilet β Wi-Fi β Wi-FiAtmosphere
β Casual β Cosy β TrendyCrowd
β Family friendly β Groups β LGBTQ+ friendly β Tourists β Transgender safe spacePlanning
β Dinner reservations recommended β Accepts reservationsPayments
β Credit cards β Debit cards β NFC mobile payments β Credit cardsChildren
β Good for kids β High chairs β Kids' menuParking
β Free of charge street parking β Paid street parking β ParkingPets
β Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
Location
Reviews
Excellent food, service, and atmosphere. Nice location. We had totopos, tacos (chicken, beef, and fish), and burrito. Everything was great (probably the best burrito ever). Although totopos were kind of pricey for what you get, the three salsas were awesome. Highly recommended
We went to eat brunch at paraiso on a Sunday morning and everything about it was superb. Food was delicious and so thoughtful, the plato fuertes down to the salsitas. Ambiance was also thoughtful with the abundance of cempasuchiles decorating the walls and tables. Restaurant was clean, comfortable,and staff were nice. Would recommend for brunch
My wife and I had our wedding anniversary at the restaurant and I can't recommend the place more. The food was delicious, each and every dish and we ordered A LOT. The duck confit is a must! And the tres leches for desert. I would also recommend coming without the car because the cocktails are sooo good! The service was amazing! The atmosphere was very fun and unique. Highly recommended and we will definitely come back!!
Their guacamole for sure is one of the uniquely delightful ones Iβve ever had. Staff were extremely professional and courteous. I lost my phone and they were very willing to assist me. One employee allowed me to sign into their iPhone to find my device. So much appreciated. Parking can be a bit difficult to find.
We had awesome experience first time trying this place. Our server was very friendly and knowledgeable. Ans the drinks were great, they have absolutely great selections of Mezcal. We love their special Guacamole with chili mango. The NY strip steak was delicious with their peppers corn sauce. We also tried their seasonal special dessert- Spanish Style Tiramisu. The presentation was very fun. The restaurant has very big dining area and modern interior design. I gave one star for all of their plants.l, they are real and beautiful.
Great food, drinks, and service. There wasn't much of a wait for the meal. The server was kind and very professional. The food and drink were so good. The building was also very nice. I would highly recommend this restaurant