CIRCA at Foggy Bottom

Name: CIRCA at Foggy Bottom
Address: 2221 I St NW, Washington, DC, United States, 20037
Telephone: (202) 506-5589
Price range: $30 and under
Rating: 4.7

4.7

3045 Reviews

$30 and under

American

Make a booking

2 people

29 Dec 2024

7:00 pm

Booked 49 times today

Neighbourhood gem
Lively
Great for outdoor dining

All of our CIRCA restaurants are neighborhood bistros serving delicious food and drinks. Each CIRCA is warm, inviting, and offers an energized social scene.

Whether dropping in for brunch, lunch, dinner — every meal is accompanied by an extensive wine list, including over 20 wine offerings by the glass and a seasonal cocktail list. Our patios are located on the best city corners for a vibrant dining experience. Join us and dine well!

Our patios accommodate service animals only.

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Elegant
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
American
Hours of Operation
Mon–Thu, Sun 11:00 am–9:30 pm Fri, Sat 11:00 am–10:30 pm
Phone number
(202) 506-5589
Website
http://www.circabistros.com/
Payment Options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Executive Chef
Ruben Rodriguez
Private party facilities
We have the ability to adapt our heated patio to meet your special event's needs. Our patio is the perfect space for hosting company happy hours, reunions, or just a great time with friends.Due to the set up of our dining room, it is difficult for us to create an entirely-private dining space. However, we have the ability to use our bar high-tops larger party needs indoors. Please reach out regarding your special event.

Location
2221 I St NW, Washington, DC 20037
Area
Foggy Bottom
Cross Street
I Street NW
Parking details
Public garage is located around the corner on 22nd Street between I Street NW and Pennsylvania Ave. Metered street parking is available in the neighborhood.
Public transit
Foggy Bottom Metro stop is located directly across the street, off the Orange and Blue lines.
Additional
Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeaway, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Featured in

100 Washington, D.C. Area Restaurants to Love This Valentine's Day

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Popular dishes

Soup of the DayUSD 8.00
chef's daily selection
Pretzel LoafUSD 8.00
warm pretzel loaf with whole grain mustard butter
Fried CalamariUSD 17.00
cherry peppers, artichokes, olives, marinara, grilled lemon
Shotgun ShrimpUSD 15.00
flash fried, sweet chili sauce, red bell pepper, broccolini, jicama slaw, pickled jalapeños, micro cilantro
Tuna Poke Nachos*USD 18.50
sesame ginger marinade, wasabi avocado cream, tobiko, pickled ginger aioli, wonton chips, roasted nori + sesame seeds
Chicken WingsUSD 18.00
spicy apricot chili glaze, carrots, celery, blue cheese dressing
HummusUSD 15.00
choice of spiced Wagyu beef with pickled chilies and pine nuts OR za'atar spiced cauliflower with garlic toum and pine nuts served with housemade garlic naan
Wagyu Meatball SlidersUSD 18.00
Garlic brioche, basil aioli, marinara, mozzarella. Contains pork
Brussels + BlueUSD 13.50
flash fried, applewood smoked bacon, balsamic, blue cheese
Four Cheese MacaroniUSD 13.00
cavatappi pasta, crispy prosciutto, herbed bread crumbs

Salads

Caesar*USD 12.00
chopped romaine, freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, brioche crumble, caesar dressing
Parmesan KaleUSD 12.00
baby kale, arugula. toasted sunflower seeds, carrots, marinated tomatoes, crushed crostini, parmesan vinaigrette
Veg + Quinoa BowlUSD 17.00
baby kale, house pickled beets, avocado, marinated tomatoes, hummus, balsamic onions, sunflower seeds, fried goat cheese, grilled lemon, champagne vinaigrette
Blackened Chicken MangoUSD 20.00
mixed greens, red grapes, mangoes, marinated tomatoes, cashews, dried cranberries, pickled ginger vinaigrette
Thai ShrimpUSD 19.00
shotgun shrimp, mixed greens, napa cabbage, carrots, cucumber, red onion, marinated tomatoes, crispy wontons, micro cilantro, peanuts, Thai peanut vinaigrette
Salmon Salad*USD 28.00
mixed greens, marinated tomatoes, pee wee potatoes, balsamic onions, goat cheese, champagne vinaigrette
Steak Salad*USD 29.00
7oz grilled sirloin, mixed greens, marinated tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, grilled corn, balsamic grilled onions, blue cheese, balsamic vinaigrette
Sesame Crusted Tuna*USD 29.00
mixed greens, romaine, edamame, red onion, shredded carrots, cucumbers, avocado, marinated tomatoes, jicama, herbs, crispy wontons, creamy ginger dressing

Entrées

Sesame Seared Tuna*USD 34.00
nori aioli, pickled ginger salsa, charred Japanese noodles, vegetable stir fry
Blackened Atlantic Salmon*USD 29.00
wilted baby kale, mashed cauliflower, whole grain mustard sauce
JambalayaUSD 26.00
penne pasta, shrimp, chicken, andouille sausage, scallions, diced tomatoes, chipotle cream sauce, Parmigiano-Reggiano
ScallopsUSD 36.00
garlic + herb vegetable risotto, pickled onions, charred lemon emulsion
Chicken PaillardUSD 25.00
angel hair pasta, roasted mushrooms, baby arugula, roasted red peppers, brown butter
Braised Short RibUSD 38.00
roasted garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed baby spinach, red wine jus, crispy onions
Steak Frites*USD 35.00
7oz grilled sirloin, chimichurri, blistered cherry tomatoes, roasted garlic, Parmigiano-Reggiano + fresh herb french fries

Sandwiches

CIRCA Burger*USD 18.00
Creekstone Farms beef, aged cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion, scallion aioli, brioche bun, fries
Turkey BurgerUSD 17.00
provolone, lettuce, tomato, pickled onions, habanero aioli, brioche bun, sweet potato fries
Grilled Chicken SandwichUSD 19.00
provolone, arugula, roasted peppers, basil aioli, ciabatta, fries
Fried Chicken SandwichUSD 18.00
lettuce, dill pickles, dill pickle aioli, brioche bun, sweet potato fries
Eggplant ParmesanUSD 17.00
breaded eggplant, mozzarella, parsley, pesto, ciabatta bun

Flatbreads

Crushed Tomato MargheritaUSD 15.00
hand crushed tomato sauce, basil, fresh mozzarella
Rustic ItalianUSD 18.00
sopressata, local Italian sausage, roasted red peppers, mozzarella
Barbecue ChickenUSD 18.00
barbecue sauce, slow roasted chicken, red onion, bacon, mozzarella
Wild MushroomUSD 18.50
cremini, shiitake, portobello, + oyster mushrooms, arugula, pesto, truffle oil, mozzarella
Four Cheese SpinachUSD 16.00
mozzarella, provolone, ricotta, goat cheese, garlic spinach

Sides

FriesUSD 6.00
Sweet Potato FriesUSD 7.00
Garlic Mashed PotatoesUSD 5.00
Seasonal VegUSD 7.00

What 3,045 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

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

4.7

4.7 based on recent ratings

4.7Food
4.7Service
4.4Ambience
4.3Value

Noise • Moderate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

CIRCA at Foggy Bottom offers a convenient pre-Kennedy Center dining experience with a varied menu and "always great food and service." Patrons praise the "outstanding cocktails" and friendly, attentive staff. Outdoor seating is a hit, as is the "excellent ambience." While some reviews note occasional service lapses, the restaurant remains "a regular destination."

3,046 Reviews

N
Noa
VIP
Washington DC
9 reviews
3.0
9 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 3
2. Food 4
3. Service 2
4. Ambience 3
The food was still good, but the overall ambiance of Circa has significantly decreased over the years. Used to feel more upscale and special. Good place for a pre Kennedy Center meal.
Is this helpful?
M
Maureen
Washington DC
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Varied menu with options for a wide range of tastes
Is this helpful?
R
Rob
Washington DC
5 reviews
4.0
5 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 5
We arrived early for our reservation and sat at the bar. Service was good, but there was confusion re: my credit card that caused unexpected duress at the end of an otherwise pleasant meal. I would still return, especially for a convenient meal before a show at the Kennedy Center.
Is this helpful?
C
Collin
New York City
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on 20 December 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Loved it and would go back!,.......................
Is this helpful?
R
Ricki
Washington DC
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on 20 December 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
I ordered a salad with grilled salmon. The salad came without the salmon; two people came over to apologize and to tell me they comped the salmon. I was floored. This place exceeded my expectations in food and service. Wow. Can't recommend highly enough.
Is this helpful?
D
Deyana
Washington DC
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on 15 December 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The food, drinks and service were superb! I’ll be going back.
Is this helpful?
I
Isabelle
VIP
Raleigh
12 reviews
5.0
12 reviews
Dined on 13 December 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The hostess- Kate - and the others too were incredibly welcoming and every person working there made you feel like you mattered.
Is this helpful?
A
Adrian
VIP
Washington DC
44 reviews
5.0
44 reviews
Dined on 12 December 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Great meal--the short rib melts in your mouth, the trout crust was wonderfully crispy, and the shrimp appetizer was packed with flavor.
Is this helpful?
M
Michael
VIP
Greater Boston
106 reviews
4.0
106 reviews
Dined on 7 December 2024
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 3
Excellent service and cocktail recommendations. Tuna was great as was bread pudding dessert. Ambiance ok.
Is this helpful?
J
JANICE
Nashville
3 reviews
4.0
3 reviews
Dined on 3 December 2024
1. Overall 4
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
My boyfriend and I had dinner here last ight and our meals were great!!! I had a kale salad ( couldn't get enough of it) and a burger which was very very juicy and seasoned well. My boyfriend had the jambalaya over angel hair pasta. He raved about it,,,and he is THE MOST difficult person to please let me tell you. We had patio seating which was enclosed but still cold. It was a bit uncomfortable and they couldn't move us inside even though there were tables available inside. We were told they were reserved ( get that) but no party showed up til we were leaving. All in all we enjoyed the food (little over priced) and the service was good. We would return for sure. However, if people are being seated in the patio area, when it's so cold outside, have a better heating system.
Is this helpful?

FAQs

CIRCA at Foggy Bottom offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (202) 506-5589.

CIRCA at Foggy Bottom is rated 4.7 stars by 3045 OpenTable diners.

CIRCA at Foggy Bottom does offer gift cards which you can purchase here.

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

Make a booking

2 people

29 Dec 2024

7:00 pm

Booked 49 times today

Order delivery or takeout

2221 I St NW, Washington, DC 20037

Additional information

Cross Street
I Street NW
Area
Foggy Bottom
Hours of Operation
Mon–Thu, Sun 11:00 am–9:30 pm Fri, Sat 11:00 am–10:30 pm
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
American
Dining style
Casual Elegant
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Public garage is located around the corner on 22nd Street between I Street NW and Pennsylvania Ave. Metered street parking is available in the neighborhood.
Public transit
Foggy Bottom Metro stop is located directly across the street, off the Orange and Blue lines.
Payment Options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive Chef
Ruben Rodriguez
Additional
Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeaway, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.circabistros.com/
Phone number
(202) 506-5589
Private party facilities
We have the ability to adapt our heated patio to meet your special event's needs. Our patio is the perfect space for hosting company happy hours, reunions, or just a great time with friends.Due to the set up of our dining room, it is difficult for us to create an entirely-private dining space. However, we have the ability to use our bar high-tops larger party needs indoors. Please reach out regarding your special event.

Featured in

100 Washington, D.C. Area Restaurants to Love This Valentine's Day

Gift card

Send gift cards instantly by email or print to present in person.

Send a gift card

CIRCA at Foggy Bottom

Make a booking

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

100 Washington, D.C. Area Restaurants to Love This Valentine's Day

Gift card

Tuna Poke Nachos

Thai Shrimp

Sesame Crusted Tuna

Small Plates

Soup of the DayUSD 8.00

Pretzel LoafUSD 8.00

Fried CalamariUSD 17.00

Shotgun ShrimpUSD 15.00

Tuna Poke Nachos*USD 18.50

Chicken WingsUSD 18.00

HummusUSD 15.00

Wagyu Meatball SlidersUSD 18.00

Brussels + BlueUSD 13.50

Four Cheese MacaroniUSD 13.00

Salads

Caesar*USD 12.00

Parmesan KaleUSD 12.00

Veg + Quinoa BowlUSD 17.00

Blackened Chicken MangoUSD 20.00

Thai ShrimpUSD 19.00

Salmon Salad*USD 28.00

Steak Salad*USD 29.00

Sesame Crusted Tuna*USD 29.00

Entrées

Sesame Seared Tuna*USD 34.00

Blackened Atlantic Salmon*USD 29.00

JambalayaUSD 26.00

ScallopsUSD 36.00

Chicken PaillardUSD 25.00

Braised Short RibUSD 38.00

Steak Frites*USD 35.00

Sandwiches

CIRCA Burger*USD 18.00

Turkey BurgerUSD 17.00

Grilled Chicken SandwichUSD 19.00

Fried Chicken SandwichUSD 18.00

Eggplant ParmesanUSD 17.00

Flatbreads

Crushed Tomato MargheritaUSD 15.00

Rustic ItalianUSD 18.00

Barbecue ChickenUSD 18.00

Wild MushroomUSD 18.50

Four Cheese SpinachUSD 16.00

Sides

FriesUSD 6.00

Sweet Potato FriesUSD 7.00

Garlic Mashed PotatoesUSD 5.00

Seasonal VegUSD 7.00

Overall ratings and reviews

Review summary

FAQs

Does CIRCA at Foggy Bottom offer delivery through OpenTable or takeout?

How is CIRCA at Foggy Bottom restaurant rated?

Does CIRCA at Foggy Bottom offer gift cards?

Is CIRCA at Foggy Bottom currently accepting bookings?

Make a booking

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Featured in

100 Washington, D.C. Area Restaurants to Love This Valentine's Day

Gift card