Sweet Home Cafe
American restaurant · Washington Monument Grounds ·
Diverse regional African-American fare, including po'boys and half-smokes.
Diverse regional African-American fare, including po'boys and half-smokes.
"Likewise, inside the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the in-house café could have to close entirely until the shutdown is over if the Smithsonian system shuts its doors." - Tierney Plumb
"A monthlong pop-up featuring D.C. pastry chef Paola Velez, offering desserts from her cookbook 'Bodega Bakes' and in-person book signings." - Emily Venezky
"Every Friday in March the museum's cafe welcomes D.C. pastry chef and co-owner of Bar Providencia Paola Velez for a monthlong pop-up, featuring plantain stick buns, carrot buttermilk pie, Dominican cake, and Summer Camp brownies from Velez’s new cookbook Bodega Bakes. She also does in-person book signings (March 14, 28) from 10 a.m. to noon." - Emily Venezky
"The restaurant at the National African American Museum is so good it inspired its own cookbook. Taking cues from four regions telling vastly different stories about the African American experience, Sweet Home Café's menu changes frequently, but if the deservedly popular fried chicken is available, order it. With a crunchy seasoned breading that puts the Colonel’s to shame, the meat is as succulent as a well-brined bird can be. For sides, the mac and cheese tastes like a recipe that’s been proudly passed down through generations, and the humble potato salad, typically the least glamorous dish on any menu, is spectacular. Skip the banana pudding, which tastes heavily artificial, and go straight for the sweet potato pie, barely sweetened with just the right amount of spice." - tristiana hinton, allison robicelli
"Led by chef Ramin Coles, the cafe sends out must-try dishes such as curry-spiced lamb, slow-roasted lamb shoulder, and roast mini hen served with mashed potatoes, charred Brussels sprouts, and seasonal vegetables. Desserts include banana pudding, pecan pie, and giant chocolate chip cookies. D.C. native Tarik Frazier, who runs the meat-free sandwich shop MUSH, also offers a special “Chef’s Table” event at the restaurant." - Abi Newhouse