barmini by José Andrés

501 9th St NW, Washington
(202) 393-4451

Recent Reviews

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Anna

Unforgettable experience. Did the cocktail flight and it was worth it. The cocktails are not only super interesting / creative, but very tasty. Unique ambience and excellent service (very professional without being pretentiousness).

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Michael Brinkofski

We booked a special drink tasting menu for our anniversary. While the cost is a bit high for the cocktails, it's definitely worth it. We did the drink through the ages menu and everything was delicious. The service was great and they gave us some champagne in the house. Recommend making a reservation and visiting.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

D G

The minibar experience begins weeks before you step inside, when you manage to secure a coveted spot at one of the two nightly seatings. Each passing day builds anticipation, knowing you're about to embark on something truly special and unique.

On the big day, you gather with fellow diners outside the understated entrance. As the door opens, it feels like cashing in a golden ticket to a Willy Wonka-esque affair. The all-white anteroom acts as a physical palette cleanser, separating you from the world outside and setting the stage for a journey of culinary wonder.

You and your ten fellow diners (soon to be friends) are welcomed into a space where food becomes theater. To describe any individual dish would spoil the magic, but know that each course--arriving as a meticulously crafted bite or two--showcases extraordinary precision and creativity. The timing and choreography are more akin to poetry and ballet than a typical kitchen. For fans of shows like The Bear or Hell's Kitchen, this is a glimpse of what a professional kitchen can achieve at its best--no panic, no yelling, just chefs focused on elevating food to its highest form.

Throughout the evening, a gracious team guides you, making sure you feel genuinely appreciated. The chefs encourage questions about the dishes, their construction, and the inspiration behind them. Even when my curiosity led me to ask question after question, their patience and enthusiasm never waned.

Despite the attention to detail, there is no sense of pretentiousness here. The pacing is relaxed, with each course seamlessly following the last. You'll find yourself wondering how each dish could possibly top the previous one, only to be amazed time and again.

The team's warmth makes you feel like family rather than just a guest. It's humbling to experience such sincerity and grace. As Chef Andrés has said, his secret is to treat every guest as if it's the only meal they'll have all year. Mission accomplished.

If you're fortunate enough to afford it or can save for a special occasion, a night at minibar is worth it. It's an evening of pure pleasure and delight--one you won't soon forget.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Dan Garber

The minibar experience begins weeks before you step inside, when you manage to secure a coveted spot at one of the two nightly seatings. Each passing day builds anticipation, knowing you're about to embark on something truly special and unique. On the big day, you gather with fellow diners outside the understated entrance. As the door opens, it feels like cashing in a golden ticket to a Willy Wonka-esque affair. The all-white anteroom acts as a physical palette cleanser, separating you from the world outside and setting the stage for a journey of culinary wonder. You and your ten fellow diners (soon to be friends) are welcomed into a space where food becomes theater. To describe any individual dish would spoil the magic, but know that each course--arriving as a meticulously crafted bite or two--showcases extraordinary precision and creativity. The timing and choreography are more akin to poetry and ballet than a typical kitchen. For fans of shows like The Bear or Hell's Kitchen, this is a glimpse of what a professional kitchen can achieve at its best--no panic, no yelling, just chefs focused on elevating food to its highest form. Throughout the evening, a gracious team guides you, making sure you feel genuinely appreciated. The chefs encourage questions about the dishes, their construction, and the inspiration behind them. Even when my curiosity led me to ask question after question, their patience and enthusiasm never waned. Despite the attention to detail, there is no sense of pretentiousness here. The pacing is relaxed, with each course seamlessly following the last. You'll find yourself wondering how each dish could possibly top the previous one, only to be amazed time and again. The team's warmth makes you feel like family rather than just a guest. It's humbling to experience such sincerity and grace. As Chef Andrés has said, his secret is to treat every guest as if it's the only meal they'll have all year. Mission accomplished. If you're fortunate enough to afford it or can save for a special occasion, a night at minibar is worth it. It's an evening of pure pleasure and delight--one you won't soon forget.

Tyler Ray

This was truly an unbelievable experience in every single way. The service, food and drinks, and ambience were exceeded all my expectations!

The attention to detail was completely astonishing. The fact that the servers recognized I was left handed and began placing the utensils on a different side was the cherry on top of the sundae.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Blake Harris

Barmini by José Andres is a hidden gem that starts with an unassuming entrance off 9th Street, where you're greeted by an energetic host who sets the tone for the evening. We opted for the cocktail flight, which I highly recommend. It's easily the best cocktail experience my wife and I have ever had. I tried a whiskey cocktail with cucumber, Thai chile, and garlic, which was in addition to the flight, and she loved the Yuzu Meringue Pie drink—both were outstanding. The staff was incredibly attentive and knowledgeable without being overbearing. While it's not a cheap night out, it's definitely an experience worth indulging in if you have the chance.

Vegetarian options: They accommodate vegetarians. One of the cocktails on the flight included a ham fat washed tequila, which they substituted for vegetarians.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

K rkope

minibar is still at the top of their game. Service somehow as good as the excellent food. Definitely a very special occasion place, but worth the splurge.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Barry Feierstein

While the food was fantastic, creative and beautiful, I have to commend the staff. They made the experience memorable. An unpretentious experience with a group that clearly loved their work. We were made to feel welcome the moment we arrived until we departed - 2 1/2 hours later. Dietary restrictions were thoughtfully and discretely accommodated. A 5-star experience, A 10 out of 10 for sure. We have already talked about returning.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

K David Meit

After waiting a few decades, we finally made it to minibar. It was well worth the wait! Everything about the experience was extraordinary. The ambiance is beautiful and refined. The service is impeccable. And the food was one magical bite after another. Don't forget to check out their collection of mocktails, too!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Tony Munoz

Once again knocked it out of the park. 10th anniversary and 10th time here (at least). Amazing drinks and service as always. Really go above and beyond. I can't believe more people do not want to sit at the bar and watch these masters at work. Highlight of the night though was definitely picking up on the fact that i saw and loved the dinosaur plates through the window in minibar so they BROUGHT ONE OVER with some food so I could see it and take a picture. Just the best everytime.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

james Rosenbauer

Wow! From the moment we were greeted at the door to the time we left, our experience was wonderful. Drinks included in the cocktail flight were delicious, as were the a la carts snacks. The staff could not be more accommodating and gracious. Parking was a breeze and overall experience was terrific.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Wagyu Tartare on Fried Shiso Leaf

Mark Turrentine

The mixology was amazing!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Rebecca Lee

Fabulous experience. Service is top notch! We closed out the place on a Saturday evening, the staff was so kind and knowledgeable too. Truly an experience worth indulging in once in your lifetime if you enjoy cocktails.

Bria Hatami

Returned to this DC gem after two years and the service has somehow gotten even better! Could not ask for better service. They anticipated every need. The flights and accompanying stories were well prepared. The grilled cheese with truffle butter is a must if you go. The perfect finishing complimentary touches for special occasions!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Grilled Cheese

Alex Folck

Fantastic experience. Michael, the host, was quick witted and kind, exactly what you'd want from a host. Jeff, our server, was attentive, knowledgeable, and most importantly, paid attention to our individual tastes and desires. This is a unique art and is a must visit as long as service is this good.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

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