KAYU

Went to Kayu for a Valentine’s dinner and it was excellent. Everything we ordered was super flavorful, saucy, and honestly just really well done across the board. Our server Bless took great care of us and gave awesome recommendations — the stewed kale she suggested was a standout (gotta have it with the spicy sauce on the side). Don’t skip the cocktails either: the pandan old fashioned and ube colada are must-tries and super aromatic. Definitely looking forward to coming back.

Kayu is phenomenal. From the moment you enter, you are greeted by warm smiles and a comfortable, cozy atmosphere. Since our party couldn't decide what to order, we decided to try as much as possible, including the more well-known dishes like the Sisig, Wagyu beef, and the Ube bun burger. All I can say is 'wow.' I was thoroughly surprised by how these dishes came together with their own unique twists. As a Filipino, I was met with familiar tastes alongside new, mind-blowing flavors. While every dish we tried was exceptional, my personal favorites were the Tocino Ube bun burger, the Ensaymada, and the Pork Belly Arroz Caldo (Lugaw). ​To Chef Paolo, Chef Julie, Bless (our server), and the rest of the Kayu team: thank you for providing such a memorable experience. We had an amazing time and w

Love supporting local restaurant. Highly recommend reservation. We had the $85 tasting menu, since we had 3 people we ended up almost trying everything on the menu. The food was great, our friend who follows the chef really wanted to meet them again, so when the chefs were done with cooking they ended up coming upstairs to chat with us which was awesome. Loved the food and the service. Parking is a little rough though. We would out there are only two chefs and they cook the entire night by themselves in a small kitchen. Now that’s what i call being Pros.

KAYU's tasting menu is fresh and exciting, with unique flavor combinations that cannot be found elsewhere. The attention to details of the food and plating is top-notched. The Filipino influenced-fusion introduced us to new depth and our taste buds were rewarded with creative layers of flavors. The service size of each course is perfect for a multi-course menu. Drinks are new and refreshing. Service is quick, attentive, professional, and friendly. We will be back.

Kayu DC was such a fun, standout dining experience, and Bless absolutely made our night. She was warm, attentive, and so thoughtful — she even caught that a dish contained pistachios and made sure I was safe, which I really appreciated (I would give her 6 stars if I could)!! Her recs were perfection: the stewed kale was rich, savory, and wildly addictive (ask for the spicy sauce — TRUST me) and the pandan Old Fashioned was one of the most unique (and delicious) cocktails I’ve had in DC. You can tell she really knows the menu and cares about guests having the best experience. Great vibes, great flavors, and truly lovely service. Already excited to come back (and I will be asking for Bless)!!