Cafe Citron

Cafe Citron

Cafe Citron logo

✨ Vibe

A vibrant, multi-level Latin oasis in the heart of Dupont Circle that seamlessly transforms from a colorful South American restaurant into a high-energy dance club with infectious rhythms and tropical flair.

🍸 Best For

Salsa and Bachata enthusiasts, lively birthday celebrations, group night outs, Spanish language practice, and late-night dancing to Latin hits.

🔥 Highlights

  • Complimentary Dance Lessons: Master the Latin two-step with free, high-energy introductory salsa and bachata classes offered every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday night.
  • Multi-Level Sonic Experience: Explore three to four floors of music where dedicated DJs spin a diverse mix of reggaeton, Latin house, salsa, bachata, and EDM across different rooms.
  • Themed Latin Fiestas: Enjoy signature weekly events like the "Drums of DC" on Saturdays and the "Macarena Fiesta Latina" on Wednesdays, paired with authentic South American bites like empanadas and ceviche.

ℹ️ Need to Know

  • The venue transitions from dinner service to a full nightclub atmosphere around 10:00 PM; arrive early to take advantage of the late-night happy hour specials.
  • Located directly across from the Dupont Circle Metro (South Exit), it is a premier destination for private events and large groups with no room fees for buyouts.

🔄 Weekly Events

🥘 Authentic Latin Saturday Dinner

Sat

Authentic Latin food served from 7 PM to 11 PM with music and dancing.

🎂 Birthday Celebrations

Daily

Free house tequila shots on your birthday and free bottle of house champagne with bottle purchase.

🎧 Latin Fridays

Fri

3 Floors and 3 DJs playing Latin and Caribbean music. Serving dinner 7 PM to 11 PM.

💃 Salsa Class & Dinner

Wed

Dinner and salsa experience from 8-11 PM with a formal salsa class starting at 9 PM.

💃 Salsa Class & Latin Dinner

Fri

Enjoy dinner and a salsa class. The salsa class starts at 9 PM. Featuring 3 floors and 3 DJs.

🍾 Wednesday Bottle Specials

Wed

$100 birthday bottle special and house champagne specials.

Birthday Celebrations @ Cafe Citron - Free House Tequila Shots

Sat

Free House Tequila Shots on your birthday

Dinner & Salsa Class

Wed

Dinner & Salsa Class

Happy Hour

$7 House Margaritas, $5 House Shots, $6 Domestic Beer, $9 Brazil Caipirinhas, and $10 Cuban Mojitos.

📰 In the News

Spotted by Locals Nov 12, 2025

Cafe Citron Washington DC - Spanish conversation and dancing

Cafe Citron is a vibrant Washington D.C. staple featuring a South American-inspired menu alongside free salsa lessons every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. The venue also hosts a monthly happy hour in its mezzanine for those looking to practice Spanish conversation with locals and native speakers.

Time Out Worldwide Jun 17, 2025

The best clubs in D.C. for dancing all night long

Cafe Citron is a lively Latin club and restaurant near Dupont Circle featuring four floors of music ranging from salsa and bachata to reggaeton and EDM. The venue offers an extensive menu of Latin-inspired dishes and hosts both early and late-night happy hours with specials on cocktails and food.

Washingtonian May 1, 2024

9 Places to Go Social Dancing Around DC

Cafe Citron in Dupont Circle offers introductory salsa classes to help beginners master the Latin two-step. Lessons are held on Wednesday nights, followed by social dancing opportunities from Thursday through Saturday.

Eater DC Nov 24, 2015

Eleven Bars That Actual Adults Should Probably Avoid

Cafe Citron offers popular salsa lessons and a signature happy hour known as "Hora Feliz." While the venue provides a high-energy atmosphere, it is frequently crowded with a younger demographic, making it a destination that more mature patrons may find overwhelming during peak hours.

visit Washington DC

Dance in DC: Gatherings, Classes & Performances

Cafe Citron in Dupont Circle offers free salsa classes every Wednesday and Saturday at 8 p.m., followed by vibrant social dancing. This venue is a staple for Latin dance enthusiasts in Washington, D.C., providing a welcoming space for both beginners and experienced dancers.

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