With its old-timey architecture, small-town feel and Hispanic flavor, this leafy neighborhood draws locals and visitors with low-key restaurants and shops.
Dig in to the Asian nation’s trademark spicy-sweet fare at this family-run spot in an elegantly rehabbed brick townhouse. The vivacious owner is often on duty, suggesting dishes like lumpia (spring roll-like appetizers) and rice noodle stir-fries. Desserts, many of them fruity, are standouts, and there’s brunch on weekends, too.
Located in a converted Victorian corner building, this serene-yet-urban yoga studio offers daily classes and drop-in rates. The roster ranges from challenging flow sessions to easy-enough-for-newbies restorative classes.
One of the liveliest farmers’ markets in the city takes place on the paved, main plaza in “Mt. P” every Saturday morning from May through December. Expect baked goods, cheese, produce and snacks like sandwiches or pork buns. Live music ups the appeal.
Try Salvadoran pupusas, quesadilla-like corn masa turnovers filled with pork, cheese or veggies, at one of many neighborhood spot specializing in the hearty Central American cuisine. Don Juan offers a long menu and tropical cocktails plus sidewalk seating. Locals also swear by the fresh fare at the down-home Pupuseria San Miguel.
In business in one way or another since 1935, the Raven Grill doesn’t serve food anymore. But the narrow, retro watering hole does dole out PBR beers, simple mixed drinks and a quirky jukebox. The walls are covered with graffiti and photos of classic rockers (Hendrix, Jagger et. al); the crowds lean young.
Homey egg burritos, good pastries and strong coffee lure couples with kids, singles with dogs and other locals to this casual restaurant located in a converted Victorian house. The vibe is Berkeley cool, not buttoned-up, especially on the large street-side patio. In summer months, don’t miss the downstairs ice cream parlor for homemade scoops.
Biking over Rock Creek Park
There’s a Capital Bikeshare station at the back entrance of the National Zoo, which borders Mount Pleasant. It’s a great location to grab two wheels and ride into DC’s leafy, narrow green space, where you’ll find birds, other bikers and a meandering creek.
The Christmas lights are always on inside this Mount Pleasant mainstay, where strong margaritas and frequent live bands attract a diverse crowd. The menu of Mexican-Salvadoran chow, strong margaritas and karaoke nights also fuel good times until the wee hours.
Logan's Antiques - Things to Do in Mount Pleasant - Washington, DC
On two packed-full levels, this longtime antiques trove (in business for more than 50 years) offers up old photos, retro glassware and a smattering of vintage clothing. It’s only open on weekends, and hours can be a bit sporadic, but it’s got a quirky charm.
Check out what else there is to do in the nearby Columbia Heights neighborhood.
