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The Scout Guide Names dLeña’s Chef Carlos Camacho One of “The Hispanic Chefs who Make DC Delicious”

Friday October 23, 2026

Hispanic Heritage Month concluded on Thursday, October 15, but before we flip the calendar, we wanted to highlight that dLeña’s Chef Carlos Camacho was recently featured in an article celebrating the legacy of Hispanic chefs in the DC culinary scene. Read the blurb below and see which other chefs were selected at thescoutguide.com.

Carlos Camacho grew up in Cuernavaca, Morelos, where at age five his mother stood him on a bench to help grind salsa in the molcajete. He immigrated alone to the US at 16 and started as a dishwasher at California Pizza Kitchen in Tysons Corner. He worked his way up through Richard Sandoval’s restaurants, including regional executive chef for El Centro, Toro Toro and La Sandia. In 2021 he became executive chef of dLeña, the wood-fired Mexican cocina and mezcalería in Mount Vernon Triangle. Under his lead it entered the 2022 [and 2023] Michelin Guide. He calls heritage being the spokesperson for his roots.

The dish: Camarones a la diabla, a family recipe of shrimp in a fiery, smoky red chile sauce, and the plate Camacho says he is proudest of. Pair it with one of dLeña’s smoke-wreathed mezcal cocktails.

dLeña is open daily for lunch/brunch and dinner. Stop in now through Monday, November 2 to honor Día de los Muertos at dLeña with a celebration inspired by the rich traditions, vibrant flavors, and enduring spirit of Mexico. Explore the special à la carte menu featuring thoughtfully crafted dishes and cocktails that pay tribute to the ingredients, stories, and cultural significance of this cherished holiday and book a table at dlenadc.com!