Bistro Aracosia

4.9

2276 Reviews

$30 and under

Afghan

Top Tags:

Bistro Aracosia is a critically acclaimed authentic Afghan gourmet and Chop House located in the Palisades neighborhood of Washington, DC. Aracosia has been acknowledged as 1 of 50 best restaurants in the nation for Vegetarians on Forbes Magazine, written up and reviewed by top food critics from the Washington Post, Washingtonian Magazine and numerous other publications. Bistro Aracosia has been awarded 100 Best restaurants for 2 years in a row in the Washingtonian.
Aracosia accommodates any diet and is proud of taking cooking back to its origins. Chef Sofia Masroor diligently ensures top grade quality cuts of meat and the freshest produce in the market. All foods prepared at Aracosia are prepared with love. No artificial ingredients MSG& or preservatives are used, nor do we cook anything with nuclear such as microwaves and pre-made stations. Full Bar , extensive Wine and Beer menu Come and experience authentic and classical Afghan Gourmet and hospitality at its finest.

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Jun 9, 2023

7:00 PM

Booked 29 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Takeout

(202) 363-0400

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Cuisines
Afghan, Vegetarian / Vegan, Middle Eastern
Hours of operation
Lunch Tue–Sun 12:00 pm–3:00 pm Dinner Mon 5:00 pm–9:00 pm Tue–Thu, Sun 3:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 3:00 pm–10:00 pm
Phone number
(202) 363-0400
Website
http://www.bistroaracosia.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Executive chef
Sofia Masroor
Catering
Please call us at 202-363-0400

Location
5100 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington, DC 20016
Neighborhood
Palisades Northwest
Cross street
Dana Place
Parking details
Street Parking
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Delivery, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Kosher, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Popular dishes

Bistro Signature Mix Grill Mazza$19.95
Marinated and charbroiled lamb shoulder chops, lamb rib chops, lamb tenderloin and beef tenderloin, served with spicy fresh herb chutney
Mix Grill Mazza$14.95
Marinated and charbroiled salmon, ground beef, beef tenderloin and lamb rib chop, served with avocado yogurt
Hot Mazza Assortment$15.95
Aushak, mantu, baadenjaan, kadoo, topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne Vegetarian option available
Quroti$7.95
Afghan bread topped with a minced beef and lentil qorma, yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Baadenjaan Bouranee$8.95
Roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Kadoo Bouranee$8.95
Butternut squash topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Carrot Slaw$7.95
Julienne carrots cooked with brown sugar and cardamom, chilled and tossed with fresh citrus
Potato & Leek Turnovers$7.95
Stuffed with potatoes and leeks, fried until crisp, served with a side of avocado yogurt
Sabzi Turnovers$8.95
Stuffed with slow cooked greens, fried until crisp, served with a side of avocado yogurt
Kadoo Turnovers$7.95
Stuffed with butternut squash, fried until crisp, served with a side of garlic yogurt
Samarooq Turnovers$7.95
Stuffed with mushrooms, fried until crisp, served with a side of avocado yogurt
Sambosa$8.95
Stuffed with a minced beef and lentil qorma, fried until crisp, topped with powdered sugar and cardamom
Pumpkin Dumpling Appetizer$9.95
Steamed and stuffed with butternut squash, topped with a minced beef and lentil qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Aushak Appetizer$9.95
Steamed and stuffed with leeks and scallions, topped with a minced beef and lentil qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Mantu Appetizer$9.95
Steamed and stuffed with spicy minced beef, topped with a carrot and pea qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Sabzi Dumpling Appetizer$9.95
Steamed and stuffed with slow-cooked greens, topped with a spicy bean medley qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Samarooq Dumpling Appetizer$9.95
Steamed and stuffed with mushrooms, topped with a spicy bean medley qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Seekh Kabob Appetizer$9.95
Marinated and charbroiled ground beef, served with cucumber and dill yogurt
Lamb Tenderloin Appetizer$10.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with cucumber and dill yogurt

Burgers & Wraps

Bistro Burger$11.95
Marinated and charbroiled ground beef, mixed greens and spicy herb ketchup on a toasted brioche bun with a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro
Seekh (Ground Beef) Wrap$11.95
Marinated and charbroiled ground beef with mixed greens, spicy herb chutney and avocado yogurt in a lavash wrap, with a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro
Chicken Wrap$11.95
Marinated and charbroiled chicken breast with mixed greens, spicy herb chutney and avocado yogurt in a lavash wrap, with a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro
Salmon Wrap$13.95
Marinated and charbroiled salmon with mixed greens, spicy herb chutney and avocado yogurt in a lavash wrap, with a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro

Soup & Salad

Bistro Signature Lentil Soup$7.95
Minced beef, lentils, chickpeas and mung beans, topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint, cayenne and fresh dill
Bistro Salad$7.95
Mixed greens, bell peppers, tomatoes, croutons, bleu cheese crumbles and walnuts, tossed in a balsamic dressing
Mixed Green Salad$6.95
Mixed greens, bell peppers, tomatoes and croutons, tossed in a balsamic dressing

Entrees

Braised Lamb & Greens$18.95
Braised bone-in lamb shank served with saffron infused basmati rice and slow cooked greens, topped with fresh dill
Qabuli Palou$18.95
Braised bone-in lamb shank served with seasoned rice topped with carrots and raisins and a side of roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Risotto & Lamb$16.95
Braised bone-in lamb shank served with spicy short grain rice, chickpeas, lentils and kidney beans topped with fresh dill
Aushak Entree$13.95
Steamed and stuffed with leeks and scallions, topped with a minced beef and lentil qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Pumpkin Dumpling Entree$13.95
Steamed and stuffed with butternut squash, topped with a minced beef and lentil qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne Vegetarian option available
Mantu Entree$13.95
Steamed and stuffed with spicy minced beef, topped with a carrot and pea qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne

Qormas (Stews)

Chicken Lawaan$13.95
Boneless chicken thigh in a garlic yogurt based stew, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Chicken Sabzi Lawaan$14.95
Boneless chicken thigh in a garlic yogurt based stew with slow cooked greens, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Chicken Ryehaan$14.95
Boneless chicken thigh in a garlic yogurt based stew with diced tomatoes, topped with fresh basil, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Saffron Chicken$15.95
Boneless chicken thigh in a yogurt based stew infused with saffron, lemon and fresh dill, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Chicken Karahi$14.95
Boneless chicken thigh in a spicy tomato based stew with eggplant, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Chicken Aracosian$14.95
Boneless chicken thigh in a spicy tomato based stew with eggplant and garam masala, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Rumi's Chicken$13.95
Boneless chicken thigh in a sweet and spicy tomato based stew, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Lamb Shank Moghuli$18.95
Bone-in braised lamb shank in a spicy tomato based stew with eggplant, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Lamb Shank Sabzi Moghuli$19.95
Bone-in braised lamb shank in a spicy tomato based stew with slow cooked greens, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Veal Lawaan$19.95
Boneless veal in a garlic yogurt based stew, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Veal & Mushrooms$20.95
Boneless veal in a garlic yogurt based stew with mushrooms, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Veal & Mushroom Sabzi Lawaan$21.95
Boneless veal in a garlic yogurt based stew with slow cooked greens and mushrooms, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Veal Ryehaan$19.95
Boneless veal in a garlic yogurt based stew with diced tomatoes, topped with fresh basil, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Veal & Nakhoud$19.95
Boneless veal in a spicy tomato based stew with chickpeas, garam masala and cinnamon, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Veal Karahi$19.95
Boneless veal in a spicy tomato based stew with eggplant, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Veal Moghuli$19.95
Boneless veal in a spicy tomato based stew with eggplant and garam masala, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice

Chops & Kabobs

Lamb Tenderloin Kabob$24.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with qabuli rice and a side of roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Frenched Rack of Lamb [Chopaan]$19.95
Marinated and charbroiled lamb rib chops, served with seasoned rice and a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro
Lamb Shoulder Chops$18.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with qabuli rice and a side of roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Lamb Chop Duo$20.95
Marinated and charbroiled lamb rib and shoulder chops, served with qabuli rice and a side of roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Aracosian Lamb Platter$30.95
Marinated and charbroiled lamb tenderloin, lamb rib and shoulder chops, served with qabuli rice and a side of roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Bistro Signature Kabob$22.95
Marinated and charbroiled lamb rib chops and beef tenderloin, served with qabuli rice and a side of roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Lamb & Beef Tenderloin$24.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with qabuli rice and a side of roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Beef Tenderloin Kabob$18.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with seasoned rice and a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro
Beef Tenderloin & Chicken$17.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with seasoned rice, saffron rice and a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro
Seekh [Ground Beef] Kabob$12.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with saffron rice and a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro
Chicken & Ground Beef$15.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with seasoned rice, saffron rice and a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro
Chicken Breast Kabob$15.50
Marinated and charbroiled, served with saffron rice and a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro
Boneless Juicy Chicken Thigh Kabob$15.50
Marinated and charbroiled, served with saffron rice and a side of a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro
Salmon$16.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with saffron rice and a side of slow cooked greens topped with fresh dill
Surf & Turf$20.95
Marinated and charbroiled salmon and beef tenderloin, served with seasoned rice, saffron rice and a side of roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne

Vegetarian & Vegan

Baadenjaan Karahi$13.95
Roasted eggplant in a spicy tomato based stew with eggplant, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Baadenjaan Moghuli$13.95
Roasted eggplant in a spicy tomato based stew with eggplant and garam masala, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Sabzi Moghuli$13.95
Slow cooked greens in a spicy tomato based stew with eggplant and garam masala, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Sabzi Lawaan$13.95
Slow cooked greens in a garlic yogurt based stew with slow cooked greens, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Nakhoud & Mushroom Lawaan$12.95
Spicy chickpeas in a garlic yogurt based stew with mushrooms, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Nakhoud & Mushroom Sabzi Lawaan$13.95
Spicy chickpeas in a garlic yogurt based stew with slow cooked greens and mushrooms, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Afghania Nakhoud Chalou$11.95
Spicy tomato based chickpea qorma with garam masala and cinnamon, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron rice
Baadenjaan Chalou$13.95
Roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne, served with saffron rice
Kadoo Chalou$14.95
Butternut squash topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne, served with saffron rice
Sabzi Chalou$13.95
Slow cooked spinach, kale, collard greens, mustard greens, turnip leaves and cilantro, topped with fresh dill, served with saffron rice
Qabuli Combination Platter$16.95
Four variations of our vegetables: sabzi, nakhoud, kadoo and baadenjaan, served with qabuli rice
Risotto with Eggplant & Butternut Squash$15.95
Spicy short grain rice, chickpeas, lentils and kidney beans topped with fresh dill, accompanied with sides of roasted eggplant and butternut squash topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Aushak Entree [Vegetarian]$13.95
Steamed and stuffed with leeks and scallions, topped with a carrot and pea qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Pumpkin Dumpling Entree [Vegetarian]$13.95
Steamed and stuffed with butternut squash, topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Samarooq Dumpling Entree$13.95
Steamed and stuffed with mushrooms, topped with a spicy bean medley qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Sabzi Dumpling Entree$13.95
Steamed and stuffed with slow-cooked greens, topped with a spicy bean medley qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Bamya Chalou$15.95
Spicy tomato based stew with okra topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron rice
Kabob-E-Samarooq$15.95
Marinated and charbroiled portobello mushroom, zucchini, onions and tomatoes, served with saffron rice and a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro

Additional Sides

Yogurt with Cucumber & Dill$4.95
Nakhoud Side$4.95
Spicy tomato based chickpea qorma with garam masala and cinnamon, topped with fresh cilantro
Baadenjaan Side$4.95
Roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Daal Side$4.95
Spicy lentils topped with fresh dill
Sabzi Side$4.95
Slow cooked spinach, kale, collard greens, mustard greens, turnip leaves and cilantro, topped with fresh dill
Kadoo Side$4.95
Butternut squash topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Qabuli Side$4.95
Seasoned basmati rice topped with julienne carrots & raisins
Palou Side$4.50
Seasoned basmati rice
Chalou Side$3.50
Saffron infused basmati rice

What 2,276 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.9

4.9 based on recent ratings

4.9Food
4.9Service
4.7Ambience
4.7Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

Washington, D.C. Area
Best Food
Washington, D.C. Area
Best Value
District of Columbia
Best Overall
District of Columbia
Best Food
District of Columbia
Best Service
District of Columbia
Best Value
District of Columbia
Healthy

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g
globetrotter
Washington DC
58 reviews
vip
5.0
58 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
overall5food5service5ambience4
Actions speak louder than words. This is my go to restaurant. Outstanding food, refined spices, friendly and professional service and a neighborhood jewel. To top it all, this is one of the few good restaurants where you can hear conversation.
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S
Susan
Washington DC
27 reviews
vip
5.0
27 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
Excellent food, service and ambiance! The staff were very welcoming and offered good food suggestions.
Bistro AracosiaResponded 2 days agoThank you, Susan! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your experience with us!
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C
Calilibra
London
4 reviews
vip
5.0
4 reviews
Dined 6 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
The pumpkin dumplings are one of the best things I’ve eaten! Everything we ate was fabulous! Service was outstanding! Highly recommend Bistro Aracosia!
Bistro AracosiaResponded 4 days agoThank you! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed our pumpkin dumplings and hospitality!
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BR
BethR
Los Angeles
10 reviews
vip
5.0
10 reviews
Dined 6 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
Excellent food, service and atmosphere. We will be back!!
Bistro AracosiaResponded 4 days agoThank you, Beth! We look forward to welcoming you back!
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KS
KirkS
Washington DC
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on June 1, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Excellent neighborhood gem. A great value if you are a carnivore.
Bistro AracosiaResponded 4 days agoThank you! We appreciate your support!
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MJ
MichelJ
New England
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on May 29, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
We went for the sampler of everything. Beautifully served and very good. Plus enough to take home and just had a great lunch as well
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 30, 2023Thank you! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed our tasting menu!
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JS
JayS
Washington DC
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 25, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
This restaurant not only goes out of their way to serve very good food. But the service staff is so knowledgeable and friendly to help and direct you towards a very pleasant dinning experience Thank you
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 29, 2023Thank you, Jay! We appreciate your kind words and support! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed our food and hospitality.
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CW
CaroleW
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 25, 2023
overall5food4service5ambience5
A wonderful experience with great service. The quality of the food served has decreased a bit (a bit more oily than usual! but overall the whole evening was wonderful and the dumplings are just phenomenal!
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 29, 2023Thank you for writing us! We appreciate your feedback and will look into this!
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MS
ManS
Washington DC
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on May 24, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
This is a great place. Food is exquisite. Service outstanding.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 26, 2023Thank you for your kind words and support!
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LA
LynnA
New England
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 24, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Can’t say enough good things about this place. Love that they have a separate vegan menu now, though they’ve always had plenty of vegan & vegetarian options for those of us who seek plant-based meals.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 26, 2023Thank you, Lynn! We are happy to hear that you enjoy our updated vegan menu. We really appreciate your kind words and support!
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JS
JoanS
Washington DC
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on May 23, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience4
Perfectly seasoned food and enough Choices to appeal to any diner.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 25, 2023Thank you, Joan! We are glad that you enjoyed our food!
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DR
DelRayDenizen
Washington DC
33 reviews
vip
5.0
33 reviews
Dined on May 22, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Our lamb shank in a curry-like sauce w/ rice was delicious, and the morrocan syrah was a perfect match.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 24, 2023Thank you! We are glad that you enjoyed the lamb moghuli and the wine to go with it!
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JD
JoeD
Washington DC
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on May 19, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
We ordered the mini taste. It was a wonderful way to sample several dishes if you are not sure what you would like. We loved them all!! Service was fantastic and the ambiance welcoming.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 22, 2023Thank you! We are glad that you enjoyed our mini taste of Aracosia!
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m
mizgen
Milwaukee
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on May 19, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Terrific food and excellent service. The appetizers are spectacular. The lamb is a standout but so is the chicken sabzi lawaan. You really can't go wrong.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 22, 2023Thank you for your kind words and support! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed our lamb and chicken sabzi lawaan!
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J
John89
Washington DC
20 reviews
5.0
20 reviews
Dined on May 18, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The food was great. Especially liked the pumpkin dumplings and eggplant. Lamb was cooked to perfection. Staff was friendly and did a great job. The cardamon cake was also great.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 22, 2023Thank you, John! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your meal with us!
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JH
JimH
Washington DC
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 16, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Food was delicious! Staff was very helpful and friendly.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 19, 2023Thank you, Jim! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed it!
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NS
NewtoSLC
Detroit
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 15, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Our server Zach was attentive, the food was amazing! And portions are generous!
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 17, 2023Thank you! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed everything!
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t
traveled4ever
Baltimore
10 reviews
5.0
10 reviews
Dined on May 15, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience4
Outstanding flavors (wonderful lamb chops, try the rose water ice cream!), quiet enough to hear your tablemates without raising voices, and well-paced attentive service. We hadn't been to Bistro Aracosia in a while, and it was worth the drive. We'll be back sooner next time!
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 17, 2023Thank you for your kind words and support! We look forward to your next visit!
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C
Chrissy
Washington DC
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on May 14, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
This was our first visit to the Aracosia dining room. We have ordered take out and enjoyed it. But that can't compare to dining in the restaurant! It was delicious from start to finish. And very warm and friendly wait staff. We will definitely go again.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 16, 2023Thank you, Chrissy! We are happy to hear that you have enjoyed our carryout and that you also enjoyed your dine in experience. We look forward to welcoming you back!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Atlanta Metro
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on May 14, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Great atmosphere and delicious food. I highly recommend.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 16, 2023Thank you for your kind words and support!
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ME
MamaEtienne
Washington DC
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on May 12, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience4
The food was fantastic and the service was excellent - the waitress was kind and thoughtful and cleverly offered to split up vegetarian and non-veggie food without me having to ask. The ambience was fun and sophisticated without being stuffy!
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 15, 2023Thank you for your kind words! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed our hospitality and cuisine!
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S
Sandy
Washington DC
6 reviews
vip
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on May 11, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
I love this place. I would go every week if it weren’t such a long drive from my house.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 15, 2023Thank you for making the trip to come and join us for a meal. We are happy to hear that you enjoyed it!
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KA
KennethA
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 7, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Top choice for a special dinner! Extensive menu options perfect for sharing to experience different dishes. And great appetizers, desserts and drinks to round out the experience. Also, attentive and personable staff.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 8, 2023Thank you for your kind words and support!
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MZ
MichaelZ
Washington DC
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on May 7, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Very deep, well-nuisance flavors. If you have yet to try Afghan food, this is an excellent place to start. If you're familiar with Afghan food, then this location should be on your list. We've eaten here many times during the past few years. Restaurant is relatively small. Best to book a reservation during dinner hours on the weekend.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 8, 2023Thank you for being our loyal guests! We appreciate your kind words and support!
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FH
ForestHillsDiner
Washington DC
7 reviews
vip
5.0
7 reviews
Dined on May 6, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience4
Wonderful neighborhood treasure! Delicious food with generous portions and reasonably priced!
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 8, 2023Thank you for your kind words!
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NV
NVDinner
Washington DC
7 reviews
5.0
7 reviews
Dined on May 4, 2023
overall5food5service4ambience4
Excellent food and dining experience. Service good but could tell the wait staff was very busy with a full dining room.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 8, 2023Thank you for your patience during your visit with us. We appreciate your feedback, support and kindness.
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V
Valuesvalue
Washington DC
14 reviews
vip
5.0
14 reviews
Dined on May 4, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Wonderful. Bistro Aricosia never disappoints. We added an extra guest to our reservation—no problem. We asked for three separately checks — no problem. Our server was excellent. Food as always excellent—One member of our group from out of town wanted a top notch culinary experience and he says that is what he got.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 8, 2023Thank you for your kind words! We are happy to hear that you and your group enjoyed dining with us!
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MM
MonaM
Washington DC
10 reviews
5.0
10 reviews
Dined on May 1, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Bistro Aracosia is a favorite restaurant of ours, especially when we have company. It did not disappoint!
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 3, 2023Thank you, Mona! We are honored to be one of your favorites!
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D
Dcdiner
Washington DC
51 reviews
vip
5.0
51 reviews
Dined on May 1, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Outstanding as always. Great food, great service.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 3, 2023Thank you! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your experience with us!
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SF
StephenF
Washington DC
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on April 30, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Always excellent. The best Afghani restaurant I've been to.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 3, 2023Thank you, Stephen! We appreciate your kind words and support!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Washington DC
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on April 30, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Everything was amazing especially the eggplant, squash and cardamom cake!
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 1, 2023Thank you! We are glad that you enjoyed the eggplant, squash and cardamom cake!
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G
Great
Orange County
3 reviews
vip
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on April 29, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Lovely, lovely place. Dounia, Kyle and the team were fantastic. Food was delish and very reasonable. Can’t wait to try everything on the menu!
Bistro AracosiaResponded on May 1, 2023Thank you for your kind words! We are happy to hear that Dounia and Kyle took great care of you during your visit! We look forward to your return.
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JP
JPGVA
Washington DC
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on April 26, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The food is always excellent and well presented, and every time I try something new, it is always another great experience. The wine is limited, but what they have is quite good and reasonably priced. The service is very friendly and attentive, and the food comes very promptly. Overall, an incredible experience very much worth the reasonable cost of the entire meal. The friends we have brought, and we’ve brought many, are always amazed. It is simply a fabulous restaurant.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on April 28, 2023Thank you for your kind words and support! We are glad to hear that you enjoyed your experience with us!
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JL
JohnL
Washington DC
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on April 25, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Very wide selection of foods, all that we ordered were prepared superbly. Service was great throughout the meal. Definitely a great value. One heads up; be early as parking can be a bit of a challenge but also be aware, there is not a seated bar to wait at.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on April 27, 2023Thank you, John! We appreciate your feedback, support and kind words!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Exclusive
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on April 25, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Lovely dinner. Enjoyed the dumplings as always, and tried the spicy risotto for the first time- could not recommend more highly. You can never go wrong here.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on April 27, 2023Thank you! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed the dumplings and risotto!
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F
Fred
Washington DC
10 reviews
vip
5.0
10 reviews
Dined on April 25, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
As usual, the cuisine, service, and ambience were superlative. The restaurant is a neighborhood gem.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on April 27, 2023Thank you for your kind words and support!
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J
Jennifer
Seattle
4 reviews
vip
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on April 24, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The entire evening was bar none one of our best dining experiences ever. The service was outstanding, and the food was delicious. We ordered the Hot Mazza Assortment and the Lamb Shank Sabzi Moghuli. Neither one of us could remember a better meal at home or dining out. Did I mention we are from Seattle? After seeing the Masroor family featured on CBS and reading the reviews, we we inspired. We can’t wait to return….and hope to try the other family restaurants, too!
Bistro AracosiaResponded on April 25, 2023Thank you so much, Jennifer! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed dining with us and that you loved our food. We appreciate your kind words and support!
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L
Love2eat
San Francisco
16 reviews
vip
5.0
16 reviews
Dined on April 24, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The food, service and ambience was terrific. I have never had Afghani food and it was perfectly spiced creating wonderful flavor profiles. We went with a large party and it was a hit with everyone! The staff were pleasant, friendly and helpful. This is a must try if anyone is in the DC area.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on April 27, 2023Thank you for your kind words and support! We are glad that you enjoyed!
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BG
BillG
Washington DC
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on April 24, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
A quiet Monday evening with wonderful Afghan food… the Pumpkin Dumplings, the vegetarian platter, and the chicken thighs with rice and chickpeas— all superb. Parking may be a challenge on busier nights, but it’s worth a bit of a walk. Happy to find this sister to Afghan Bistro!
Bistro AracosiaResponded on April 27, 2023Thank you for dining with us! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your experience. We appreciate your support!
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E
Eatdrinknbemerrytogether
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on April 23, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Terrific food and service. Well run service. A gem.
Bistro AracosiaResponded on April 25, 2023Thank you for your kind words and support!
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Safety precautions

Cleaning & sanitizing
- Surfaces sanitized between seatings
- Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
- Common areas deep-cleaned daily
- Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers
- Contactless payment available
Physical distancing
- Limited number of seated diners
- Distancing maintained in common areas
- Extra space between tables

Protective equipment
- Waitstaff wear masks
- Diners must wear masks unless eating or drinking
Screening
- Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

Bistro Aracosia offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (202) 363-0400.

Bistro Aracosia is rated 4.9 stars by 2276 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Jun 9, 2023

7:00 PM

Booked 29 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Takeout

(202) 363-0400

5100 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington, DC 20016

Additional information

Cross street
Dana Place
Neighborhood
Palisades Northwest
Hours of operation
Lunch Tue–Sun 12:00 pm–3:00 pm Dinner Mon 5:00 pm–9:00 pm Tue–Thu, Sun 3:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 3:00 pm–10:00 pm
Cuisines
Afghan, Vegetarian / Vegan, Middle Eastern
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Street Parking
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Executive chef
Sofia Masroor
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Delivery, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Kosher, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.bistroaracosia.com/
Phone number
(202) 363-0400
Catering
Please call us at 202-363-0400

Bistro Aracosia

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout

Takeout

Additional information

Salmon

Chicken Sabzi Lawaan

Lamb Chop Duo

Appetizers (Mazza)

Bistro Signature Mix Grill Mazza$19.95

Mix Grill Mazza$14.95

Hot Mazza Assortment$15.95

Quroti$7.95

Baadenjaan Bouranee$8.95

Kadoo Bouranee$8.95

Carrot Slaw$7.95

Potato & Leek Turnovers$7.95

Sabzi Turnovers$8.95

Kadoo Turnovers$7.95

Samarooq Turnovers$7.95

Sambosa$8.95

Pumpkin Dumpling Appetizer$9.95

Aushak Appetizer$9.95

Mantu Appetizer$9.95

Sabzi Dumpling Appetizer$9.95

Samarooq Dumpling Appetizer$9.95

Seekh Kabob Appetizer$9.95

Lamb Tenderloin Appetizer$10.95

Burgers & Wraps

Bistro Burger$11.95

Seekh (Ground Beef) Wrap$11.95

Chicken Wrap$11.95

Salmon Wrap$13.95

Soup & Salad

Bistro Signature Lentil Soup$7.95

Bistro Salad$7.95

Mixed Green Salad$6.95

Entrees

Braised Lamb & Greens$18.95

Qabuli Palou$18.95

Risotto & Lamb$16.95

Aushak Entree$13.95

Pumpkin Dumpling Entree$13.95

Mantu Entree$13.95

Qormas (Stews)

Chicken Lawaan$13.95

Chicken Sabzi Lawaan$14.95

Chicken Ryehaan$14.95

Saffron Chicken$15.95

Chicken Karahi$14.95

Chicken Aracosian$14.95

Rumi's Chicken$13.95

Lamb Shank Moghuli$18.95

Lamb Shank Sabzi Moghuli$19.95

Veal Lawaan$19.95

Veal & Mushrooms$20.95

Veal & Mushroom Sabzi Lawaan$21.95

Veal Ryehaan$19.95

Veal & Nakhoud$19.95

Veal Karahi$19.95

Veal Moghuli$19.95

Chops & Kabobs

Lamb Tenderloin Kabob$24.95

Frenched Rack of Lamb [Chopaan]$19.95

Lamb Shoulder Chops$18.95

Lamb Chop Duo$20.95

Aracosian Lamb Platter$30.95

Bistro Signature Kabob$22.95

Lamb & Beef Tenderloin$24.95

Beef Tenderloin Kabob$18.95

Beef Tenderloin & Chicken$17.95

Seekh [Ground Beef] Kabob$12.95

Chicken & Ground Beef$15.95

Chicken Breast Kabob$15.50

Boneless Juicy Chicken Thigh Kabob$15.50

Salmon$16.95

Surf & Turf$20.95

Vegetarian & Vegan

Baadenjaan Karahi$13.95

Baadenjaan Moghuli$13.95