Florida Avenue Grill

Good breakfast- same as it ever was

My dinner here had more flair than I expected! Tasty fried chicken and huge perfect plaintains. The stir-fried cabbage could have been spicier but it was a clever recipe. Overall this chef is going places and I believe this restaurant can make it another 80 years. Our meals took some time so don't be in a rush. Glad I went and I will be back sometime to check out their breakfast.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 4

Don’t bother this is hands down the worst place. 40 min for order one hour and still no food. There were maybe 10 people waiting for food

Florida Avenue Grill is a staple in DC! I am a Howard Law student and they were able to help us sponsor our event commemorating the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina! The mac and cheese, collard greens, and chicken were so delicious. Several students that hadn't heard of the restaurant now have it on their radar to dine in their spare time. We look forward to using them again for our programming events!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Brought my family from NC to DC just to try the oldest soul food restaurant In the country and wasn’t served for 20 mins. After my family was getting weary, we had to leave. Florid Avenue Grill was my favorite place when I’d come to DC. But this experience turned me away from this establishment. I’m sad to say my business and recommendations will reside elsewhere

Atmosphere: 1

Service: 1

I’ve been coming here for years and the service has always been questionable, but on this occasion the menu did not reflect accurate pricing or combo options. In addition to no having correct menu options on ALL THE MENUS IN THE RESTAURANT, the staff was unable and unwilling to honor the pricing reflected on the menu.

It’s unprofessional and unfortunate. They claim to be the oldest soul food restaurant in the country, and the menus are clearly printed on someone’s personal printer at home - but they decide to pass out inaccurate menus.

To add insult to injury - they know people come here for breakfast/brunch on the weekends and the host was at the door telling people that they’d have to wait at least 45 minutes for food in a restaurant with 7 patrons in it because they only scheduled one person to cook.

This will be the last time I spend money at this establishment. I did love bringing people from out of town here, but the unprofessional nature of the staff and the restaurant in general has moved Florida Ave grill to the list of places to avoid.

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 2

Service: 1

I visited Florida Avenue Grill after hearing of its legacy and even seeing its influence on the TV series, Beyond the Gates. Unfortunately, the reality was disappointing. Service was slow and unwelcoming, with a 40-minute wait for food despite the restaurant not being busy. My coffee wasn’t filled to the top, and only afterward did I learn of a no-refill policy—something never mentioned beforehand. I e-mailed the owner twice for feedback and received no reply.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 3

Service: 1

The food is NASTY and the service sucks! Its definetly NOT what is used to be since the owner and the cooks left. Im a DC native born and raised in shaw community. This is historic place for black american culture the FIRST soul food resturant in the US. Martin Luther king ate here. I know he wasnt eating this NASTY food! There is way better soul foods resturants in the area like Doro Soul Food Go there! This place need to take notes from them. I dont know what happen to this place smh. If I had money I would buy it and operate it better than this owner.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

There have been a few renovations that were definitely needed, but unfortunately the food and service have gone downhill. As a DC native, it’s disappointing to see the direction such an iconic and historic place is headed.

While my server was friendly, she was extremely slow and not very attentive. I ordered a turkey bacon, egg, and cheese and was double charged for add-ons, which felt unreasonable. This spot used to be known for a quick, affordable breakfast, but the current prices don’t match the quality of food or service.

I also noticed some concerning food handling practices, the cook separated pork bacon while still wearing the same gloves used for cooking, which raises cross-contamination concerns.

I truly hope things improve, because this used to be a neighborhood favorite, but sadly I don’t think I would return.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 2

Service: 2

This makes me so sad, this place isn't what it use to be! When I tell you everything about this place used to be the best, and I say that as in just last year I was here. The staff was amazing. Everybody greeted you and wanted to make sure that you were happy when you left. The food was amazing. The atmosphere was amazing, to go in here today and barely be greeted the prices are outrageous and the food is no longer good. The staff looks like they don't have it under control. It just really makes me sad. I was looking for Miss Melissa. I believe that was her name to walk in there and be greeted by her and then get served. Food that didn't miss will definitely be missed. This place went downhill. This will be my last time here

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

What can you say, the oldest soul food restaurant in the US, still going strong. No doubt, eggs over easy with a biscuit, chessy grits, and a half smoke, is pure DC delicious.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

One of the best place in DC to have breakfast.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Went in on this sunday morning, and only one other person being serviced ahead of us. I do understand that everyone has to start somewhere. However our waiter was slower than a sleepy sloth. He shouldn't be new and serving alone .we waited about 10 min before he came over to take our order. The food feels like it's lost its touch and sadly this might be our last time visiting. Wishing well on the countiued success.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 1

Lived up to the hype! I've known about this place for a while and that it is basically a DC institution. I finally made the trip out with a friend for a brunch, and it did not disappoint. We were immediately greeted and seated to a booth and before you knew it, we had and ordered, and our piping hot food was being delivered. I got the Ms. Bertha special and he the Two Egg Special. I can testify that the portions were strong, the flavors were rich, and the presentation was impeccable. Was a satisfying hearty meal! Absolutely will be working this place into my rotation and would recommend strongly.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Porkchops are amazing
BLT AMAZING
POTATO SALAD GREAT

I do agree with some reviews saying it’s a little pricy. You’re also paying for the chance to sit in the US first soul food restaurant

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5