Ama
Category: Italian, Brunch Spots, Romantic
Neighborhood: Navy Yard
Price:
Address: 885 New Jersey Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States
✨ Vibe
Ama is an intimate and authentic Northern Italian sanctuary in Navy Yard that seamlessly transitions from a sun-drenched café by day to a lively, romantic dining destination by night.🍸 Best For
Romantic date nights, special occasions, solo dining at the bar, and upscale weekend brunch.🔥 Highlights
- Authentic Northern Italian Cuisine: The menu celebrates tradition with standout dishes like the signature cheese-filled focaccia di formaggio, wild mushroom lasagnetta, and fresh pasta imported directly from Italy.
- Sustainable & Organic Focus: Every dish is crafted with a commitment to integrity, utilizing nourishing, sustainable, and organic ingredients to create bold and balanced flavors.
- Exceptional Service & Atmosphere: Guests are treated to a transportive experience thanks to a warm, knowledgeable service team and a sophisticated setting that has quickly made it a social media favorite.
ℹ️ Need to Know
- Recently honored as one of the best restaurants in D.C. for date nights and special occasions.
- Features a charming breakfast window offering premium lattes and artisan pastries for those looking for a high-end morning start.
📰 In the News
Here Are the 2026 James Beard Awards Restaurant and Chef Semifinalists for D.C.
Johanna Hellrigl of Ama has been named a 2026 James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef in the Mid-Atlantic region. This recognition places the Washington, D.C. restaurant among the top culinary establishments being honored in the upcoming 36th annual awards cycle.
The Best Date Night Restaurants In DC - Washington DC
Ama is an intimate Northern Italian restaurant in Navy Yard that offers a romantic atmosphere perfect for first dates or solo dining at the bar. The menu features standout dishes such as the focaccia di formaggio and the raviolini al tocco, which is stuffed with braised beef and escarole.
The 14 Best DC Restaurants For Special Occasions - Washington DC
Ama is a Northern Italian restaurant in DC's Navy Yard recognized as a top destination for date nights and special occasions. The menu features standout dishes like the cheese-filled focaccia di formaggio and a zesty fritto misto of fried seafood.
Top 19 Italian Restaurants in America You Must Try
Ama serves as an indoor-outdoor café by day and a lively restaurant by night, offering a menu focused on community and sustainability. The Washington, D.C. destination features a variety of Italian-inspired dishes, including its signature lasagnetta with wild mushrooms.
Johanna Hellrigl spotlights women's empowerment in food industry with Regarding HER D.C.
Ama offers authentic Italian cuisine in Washington D.C.'s Navy Yard and is led by owner and chef Johanna Hellrigl. The restaurant is a key participant in Regarding HER D.C., a non-profit dedicated to supporting and accelerating the growth of women-owned businesses within the food and beverage industry.
Recent Reviews from Google
The food was so good it may have convinced me to relocate to DC just so I can eat here every day. I had the Spaghetti al Pomodoro and the Buffalo Mozzarella Focaccia — both were absolutely incredible....
Intentional, delicious, and feel good food. Ate at Ama for the first time yesterday and truly blown away. Because I attended for a private dinner, I’m not sure the names of what I ate but everything...
I’m not going to go on and on about how this restaurant is a rare breed and there’s nothing quite like it. The truth is, there absolutely is, but not in D.C. The refreshingly authentic take on...
Ama is all the new craze in DC on social media and the streets. I happened to be in the area and decided to check out the breakfast window. I'll say they are still working out some kinks because...
We had an incredible experience at Ama! Our server, Filippo, made the evening unforgettable. He was very attentive, warm, and full of knowledge about the menu. You can truly feel the authenticity...
