Bistro Aracosia

4.8

2727 Reviews

$30 and under

Afghan

Make a booking

2 people

24 Feb 2025

19:00

Booked 17 times today

Neighbourhood gem
Vegetarian-friendly
Charming

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.

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
Afghan, Vegetarian / Vegan, Middle Eastern
Hours of Operation
Tue–Sun 12:00 pm–3:00 pm Dinner 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
Area
Palisades Northwest
Cross Street
Dana Place
Parking details
Street Parking
Additional
Gluten-free Options, Patio/Outdoor Dining

Featured in

12 Washington, DC restaurants that our local editor loves

Popular dishes

Bistro Signature Mix Grill MazzaUS$20.95
Marinated and charbroiled lamb shoulder chops, lamb rib chops, lamb tenderloin and beef tenderloin, served with spicy fresh herb chutney
Mix Grill MazzaUS$15.95
Marinated and charbroiled salmon, ground beef, beef tenderloin and lamb rib chop, served with avocado yogurt
Hot Mazza AssortmentUS$16.95
Aushak, mantu, baadenjaan, kadoo, topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne Vegetarian option available
QurotiUS$9.25
Afghan bread topped with a minced beef and lentil qorma, yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Baadenjaan BouraneeUS$9.94
Roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Kadoo BouraneeUS$9.94
Butternut squash topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Carrot SlawUS$7.95
Julienne carrots cooked with brown sugar and cardamom, chilled and tossed with fresh citrus
Potato & Leek TurnoversUS$9.94
Stuffed with potatoes and leeks, fried until crisp, served with a side of avocado yogurt
Sabzi TurnoversUS$10.95
Stuffed with slow cooked greens, fried until crisp, served with a side of avocado yogurt
Kadoo TurnoversUS$9.94
Stuffed with butternut squash, fried until crisp, served with a side of garlic yogurt
Samarooq TurnoversUS$10.95
Stuffed with mushrooms, fried until crisp, served with a side of avocado yogurt
SambosaUS$10.95
Stuffed with a minced beef and lentil qorma, fried until crisp, topped with powdered sugar and cardamom
Pumpkin Dumpling AppetizerUS$10.95
Steamed and stuffed with butternut squash, topped with a minced beef and lentil qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Aushak AppetizerUS$10.95
Steamed and stuffed with leeks and scallions, topped with a minced beef and lentil qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Mantu AppetizerUS$10.95
Steamed and stuffed with spicy minced beef, topped with a carrot and pea qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Sabzi Dumpling AppetizerUS$10.95
Steamed and stuffed with slow-cooked greens, topped with a spicy bean medley qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Samarooq Dumpling AppetizerUS$10.95
Steamed and stuffed with mushrooms, topped with a spicy bean medley qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Seekh Kabob AppetizerUS$10.95
Marinated and charbroiled ground beef, served with cucumber and dill yogurt
Lamb Tenderloin AppetizerUS$12.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with cucumber and dill yogurt

Burgers & Wraps

Bistro BurgerUS$12.95
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) WrapUS$12.95
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 WrapUS$12.95
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 WrapUS$14.95
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 SoupUS$8.94
Minced beef, lentils, chickpeas and mung beans, topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint, cayenne and fresh dill
Bistro SaladUS$9.94
Mixed greens, bell peppers, tomatoes, croutons, bleu cheese crumbles and walnuts, tossed in a balsamic dressing
Mixed Green SaladUS$8.94
Mixed greens, bell peppers, tomatoes and croutons, tossed in a balsamic dressing

Entrees

Braised Lamb & GreensUS$19.95
Braised bone-in lamb shank served with saffron infused basmati rice and slow cooked greens, topped with fresh dill
Qabuli PalouUS$19.95
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 & LambUS$19.95
Braised bone-in lamb shank served with spicy short grain rice, chickpeas, lentils and kidney beans topped with fresh dill
Aushak EntreeUS$16.95
Steamed and stuffed with leeks and scallions, topped with a minced beef and lentil qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Pumpkin Dumpling EntreeUS$16.95
Steamed and stuffed with butternut squash, topped with a minced beef and lentil qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne Vegetarian option available
Mantu EntreeUS$16.95
Steamed and stuffed with spicy minced beef, topped with a carrot and pea qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne

Qormas (Stews)

Chicken LawaanUS$14.95
Boneless chicken thigh in a garlic yogurt based stew, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Chicken Sabzi LawaanUS$15.95
Boneless chicken thigh in a garlic yogurt based stew with slow cooked greens, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Chicken RyehaanUS$15.95
Boneless chicken thigh in a garlic yogurt based stew with diced tomatoes, topped with fresh basil, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Saffron ChickenUS$16.95
Boneless chicken thigh in a yogurt based stew infused with saffron, lemon and fresh dill, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Afghania ChickenUS$15.95
Boneless chicken thigh in a spicy tomato based stew with eggplant, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Chicken AracosianUS$15.95
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 ChickenUS$15.95
Boneless chicken thigh in a sweet and spicy tomato based stew, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Lamb Shank MoghuliUS$19.95
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 MoghuliUS$20.95
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 LawaanUS$21.95
Boneless veal in a garlic yogurt based stew, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Veal & MushroomsUS$22.95
Boneless veal in a garlic yogurt based stew with mushrooms, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Veal & Mushroom Sabzi LawaanUS$22.95
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 RyehaanUS$21.95
Boneless veal in a garlic yogurt based stew with diced tomatoes, topped with fresh basil, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Veal & NakhoudUS$22.95
Boneless veal in a spicy tomato based stew with chickpeas, garam masala and cinnamon, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Afghania VealUS$21.95
Boneless veal in a spicy tomato based stew with eggplant, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Veal MoghuliUS$21.95
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 KabobUS$25.95
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]US$22.95
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 ChopsUS$22.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with qabuli rice and a side of roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Lamb Chop DuoUS$24.95
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 PlatterUS$33.95
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 KabobUS$24.95
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 TenderloinUS$26.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with qabuli rice and a side of roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Beef Tenderloin KabobUS$22.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with seasoned rice and a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro
Beef Tenderloin & ChickenUS$20.95
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] KabobUS$14.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with saffron rice and a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro
Chicken & Ground BeefUS$16.95
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 KabobUS$16.95
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 KabobUS$16.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with saffron rice and a side of a side of a spicy tomato based chickpea qorma, topped with fresh cilantro
SalmonUS$17.95
Marinated and charbroiled, served with saffron rice and a side of slow cooked greens topped with fresh dill
Surf & TurfUS$22.95
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

Afghania BaadenjaanUS$14.95
Roasted eggplant in a spicy tomato based stew with eggplant, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Baadenjaan MoghuliUS$14.95
Roasted eggplant in a spicy tomato based stew with eggplant and garam masala, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Sabzi MoghuliUS$14.95
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 LawaanUS$14.95
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 LawaanUS$13.95
Spicy chickpeas in a garlic yogurt based stew with mushrooms, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron infused basmati rice
Nakhoud & Mushroom Sabzi LawaanUS$14.95
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 ChalouUS$13.95
Spicy tomato based chickpea qorma with garam masala and cinnamon, topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron rice
Baadenjaan ChalouUS$14.95
Roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne, served with saffron rice
Kadoo ChalouUS$14.95
Butternut squash topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne, served with saffron rice
Sabzi ChalouUS$15.95
Slow cooked spinach, kale, collard greens, mustard greens, turnip leaves and cilantro, topped with fresh dill, served with saffron rice
Qabuli Combination PlatterUS$17.95
Four variations of our vegetables: sabzi, nakhoud, kadoo and baadenjaan, served with qabuli rice
Risotto with Eggplant & Butternut SquashUS$17.95
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]US$16.95
Steamed and stuffed with leeks and scallions, topped with a carrot and pea qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Pumpkin Dumpling Entree [Vegetarian]US$16.95
Steamed and stuffed with butternut squash, topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Samarooq Dumpling EntreeUS$16.95
Steamed and stuffed with mushrooms, topped with a spicy bean medley qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Sabzi Dumpling EntreeUS$16.95
Steamed and stuffed with slow-cooked greens, topped with a spicy bean medley qorma, garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Bamya ChalouUS$15.95
Spicy tomato based stew with okra topped with fresh cilantro, served with saffron rice
Kabob-E-SamarooqUS$16.95
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 & DillUS$5.95
Nakhoud SideUS$5.95
Spicy tomato based chickpea qorma with garam masala and cinnamon, topped with fresh cilantro
Baadenjaan SideUS$5.95
Roasted eggplant topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Daal SideUS$5.95
Spicy lentils topped with fresh dill
Sabzi SideUS$5.95
Slow cooked spinach, kale, collard greens, mustard greens, turnip leaves and cilantro, topped with fresh dill
Kadoo SideUS$5.95
Butternut squash topped with garlic yogurt, dried mint and cayenne
Qabuli SideUS$5.95
Seasoned basmati rice topped with julienne carrots & raisins
Palou SideUS$4.50
Seasoned basmati rice
Chalou SideUS$3.50
Saffron infused basmati rice

What 2,727 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

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

4.8

4.8 based on recent ratings

4.9Food
4.8Service
4.7Ambience
4.7Value

Noise • Moderate

Diners' Choice Awards

District of Columbia
Best Food
District of Columbia
Best Value

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

Bistro Aracosia delights with "phenomenal food", "wonderful flavors", and "excellent service". Diners enjoy an extensive menu with "generous portions" and "plentiful vegetarian options". The cozy ambiance and attentive staff make it a "hidden gem" for Afghan cuisine lovers. The "dumplings" and "lamb dishes" are must-tries, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

2,727 Reviews

M
Mark
VIP
Washington DC
24 reviews
5.0
24 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Wonderful restaurant -- excellent food that is unique in flavors and preparation -- first rate and highly recommended.
Is this helpful?
K
Karim
New York City
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Tallya always a great host 🚀🚀✅✅✅🚀🚀 —————————————/—-
Is this helpful?
S
Steve
VIP
Richmond
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Everyone is very nice and the food is really good.
Is this helpful?
K
Karen
Washington DC
17 reviews
5.0
17 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
This is one of my favorite DC restaurants-- Good food, good service and a lovely atmosphere.
Is this helpful?
A
Aviad
VIP
Washington DC
51 reviews
5.0
51 reviews
Dined 4 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
outstanding good and excellent service as usual. The food is excellent, well-seasoned without being overly spicy. Plenty of vegetarian options including an amazing lentil soup. My guests were blown away.
Is this helpful?
M
Momtaz
Washington DC
49 reviews
5.0
49 reviews
Dined 5 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Excellent food, service, and ambiance. Keep up the good work.
Is this helpful?
G
Geraldine
Washington DC
16 reviews
5.0
16 reviews
Dined 6 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Delicious food and attentive service. We will be back soon.
Is this helpful?
M
Michael
VIP
Washington DC
39 reviews
5.0
39 reviews
Dined on 16 February 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Consistently excellent food and service. Much of menu gluten free. Always consistent pleasant service. Reasonably priced and no rush. Good place to meet friends for conversation/
Is this helpful?
J
Javid
Washington DC
1 review
2.0
1 review
Dined on 15 February 2025
1. Overall 2
2. Food 3
3. Service 1
4. Ambience 3
Second time visiting this location. First time was a team dinner (12+ guests) and it was a horrible experience. Food was not good and the service was very unorganized. After a hefty bill that the company paid for, I felt guilty for being the person to choose this restaurant. Decided to give them a second try for Valentine’s Day dinner with my wife. Same experience.
Is this helpful?
L
Lynne
Washington DC
9 reviews
5.0
9 reviews
Dined on 14 February 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
It was a lovely evening. This is a wonderful restaurant
Is this helpful?

FAQs

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

Bistro Aracosia is rated 4.8 stars by 2727 OpenTable diners.

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

Make a booking

2 people

24 Feb 2025

19:00

Booked 17 times today

Order delivery or takeout

5100 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington, DC 20016

Additional information

Cross Street
Dana Place
Area
Palisades Northwest
Hours of Operation
Tue–Sun 12:00 pm–3:00 pm Dinner Tue–Thu, Sun 3:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 3:00 pm–10:00 pm
Price
$30 and under
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
Gluten-free Options, Patio/Outdoor Dining

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

Featured in

12 Washington, DC restaurants that our local editor loves

Bistro Aracosia

Make a booking

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

12 Washington, DC restaurants that our local editor loves

Salmon

Saffron Chicken

Chicken Ryehaan

Appetizers (Mazza)

Bistro Signature Mix Grill MazzaUS$20.95

Mix Grill MazzaUS$15.95

Hot Mazza AssortmentUS$16.95

QurotiUS$9.25

Baadenjaan BouraneeUS$9.94

Kadoo BouraneeUS$9.94

Carrot SlawUS$7.95

Potato & Leek TurnoversUS$9.94

Sabzi TurnoversUS$10.95

Kadoo TurnoversUS$9.94

Samarooq TurnoversUS$10.95

SambosaUS$10.95

Pumpkin Dumpling AppetizerUS$10.95

Aushak AppetizerUS$10.95

Mantu AppetizerUS$10.95

Sabzi Dumpling AppetizerUS$10.95

Samarooq Dumpling AppetizerUS$10.95

Seekh Kabob AppetizerUS$10.95

Lamb Tenderloin AppetizerUS$12.95

Burgers & Wraps

Bistro BurgerUS$12.95

Seekh (Ground Beef) WrapUS$12.95

Chicken WrapUS$12.95

Salmon WrapUS$14.95

Soup & Salad

Bistro Signature Lentil SoupUS$8.94

Bistro SaladUS$9.94

Mixed Green SaladUS$8.94

Entrees

Braised Lamb & GreensUS$19.95

Qabuli PalouUS$19.95

Risotto & LambUS$19.95

Aushak EntreeUS$16.95

Pumpkin Dumpling EntreeUS$16.95

Mantu EntreeUS$16.95

Qormas (Stews)

Chicken LawaanUS$14.95

Chicken Sabzi LawaanUS$15.95

Chicken RyehaanUS$15.95

Saffron ChickenUS$16.95

Afghania ChickenUS$15.95

Chicken AracosianUS$15.95

Rumi's ChickenUS$15.95

Lamb Shank MoghuliUS$19.95

Lamb Shank Sabzi MoghuliUS$20.95

Veal LawaanUS$21.95

Veal & MushroomsUS$22.95

Veal & Mushroom Sabzi LawaanUS$22.95

Veal RyehaanUS$21.95

Veal & NakhoudUS$22.95

Afghania VealUS$21.95

Veal MoghuliUS$21.95

Chops & Kabobs

Lamb Tenderloin KabobUS$25.95

Frenched Rack of Lamb [Chopaan]US$22.95

Lamb Shoulder ChopsUS$22.95

Lamb Chop DuoUS$24.95

Aracosian Lamb PlatterUS$33.95

Bistro Signature KabobUS$24.95

Lamb & Beef TenderloinUS$26.95

Beef Tenderloin KabobUS$22.95

Beef Tenderloin & ChickenUS$20.95

Seekh [Ground Beef] KabobUS$14.95

Chicken & Ground BeefUS$16.95

Chicken Breast KabobUS$16.95

Boneless Juicy Chicken Thigh KabobUS$16.95

SalmonUS$17.95

Surf & TurfUS$22.95

Vegetarian & Vegan

Afghania BaadenjaanUS$14.95

Baadenjaan MoghuliUS$14.95