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Washingtonian: “Richard Sandoval Is Opening a Wood-Fired Mexican Restaurant/Mezcaleria in Mount Vernon Triangle”

Wednesday April 28, 2021

Washingtonian:Richard Sandoval Is Opening a Wood-Fired Mexican Restaurant/Mezcaleria in Mount Vernon Triangle

April 27, 2021

From the article:

Denver-based chef Richard Sandoval is ready to open his next DC project: dLeña, a modern Mexican restaurant and mezcaleria that’s opening in Mount Vernon Triangle very soon. The restaurateur, who operates over 45 concepts worldwide, became a presence in Washington with the opening of Zengo in 2005 and Masa 14 in 2009 (both have closed). He also runs two DC locations of El Centro D.F.,  which serves tacos and Mexican small plates; Latin grill Toro Toro in downtown DC; and La Sandia in Tysons. The name dLeña is a Spanish play on the phrase “of the wood,” and Sandoval means for you to take it literally.

The large selection of smoky mezcals and tequilas are a natural fit for the fire-obsessed restaurant’s bar. Smoked herbs and grilled chilies work their way into cocktails. A separate bar area will open when DC regulations allow, but in the meantime, guests can find a spot in the 80-seat restaurant or on the 70-seat patio. It will be open for dinner to start, followed by brunch later down the line. The restaurant has partnered with Dreams For Kids DC for its opening week—it will donate $1 for each guest who dines there. Stay tuned for the opening date.