DAIKAYA
✨ Vibe
A high-energy, dual-level destination that masterfully pairs a bustling Sapporo-style ramen shop on the ground floor with a sophisticated, moody, and intimate Japanese izakaya upstairs.
🍸 Best For
Pre-game meals near Capital One Arena, solo dining at the ramen counter, late-night craft cocktails, and creative Japanese small plates.
🔥 Highlights
- Authentic Sapporo Ramen: Savor world-class noodles imported from Japan’s Nishiyama Seimen Company, served in rich, aromatic broths that utilize a traditional "wok-charred" technique for depth and flavor.
- Elevated Izakaya & Sushi: The second floor offers a creative menu featuring decadent Cacio e Pepe udon and DIY beef tartare rolls, plus a newly launched sushi program featuring premium nigiri and maki.
- Expert Beverage Program: Complement your meal with an extensive selection of Japanese spirits, including a curated sake list, shochu, and inventive cocktails in a dim-lit, stylish atmosphere.
ℹ️ Need to Know
- The first-floor ramen shop is designed for fast-paced dining and does not take reservations, making it perfect for a quick, high-quality meal before a show or game.
- Reservations are available for the second-floor Izakaya, which offers a more relaxed, sit-down experience with an expanded menu of small plates and sushi.
🔄 Weekly Events
🎧 Weekend Live DJs
The second floor Izakaya features live DJs on the weekends to provide cool vibes alongside their craft cocktail and whisky program.
Live DJs at the Izakaya 🎧
The second-floor Izakaya features live DJs on the weekends to complement its Japanese tavern atmosphere.
Happy Hour
Happy hour deals are available at the Japanese tavern concept located on the second floor, featuring unique small plates and a rare Japanese whisky collection.
📰 In the News
Chinatown’s Beloved Japanese-Italian Spot Serving Final Meals in May
Tonari, a Japanese-Italian fusion concept by the Daikaya Group, is scheduled to permanently close its Chinatown doors on May 3, 2026. Located next door to the flagship Daikaya restaurant, the closure marks the end of a six-year run for the unique "Wafu" Italian spot ahead of major renovations at the nearby Capital One Arena.
Chinatown’s Japanese Italian Favorite Tonari Is Closing
Daikaya Group is closing its Japanese-Italian concept, Tonari, on May 3, 2026, though the flagship Daikaya ramen shop and upstairs izakaya will remain open in Chinatown. The owners expressed continued commitment to the neighborhood despite recent closures of other sister concepts and upcoming renovations at the nearby Capital One Arena.
The Team Behind Daikaya Will Open Its Fourth Ramen Shop in Navy Yard
Daikaya's ownership group is expanding its footprint in Washington D.C. with the opening of a fourth ramen shop in the Navy Yard neighborhood. This new location continues the team's mission of bringing authentic Japanese ramen culture to diverse areas of the city.
Standouts in DC’s Ramen Revolution
Daikaya offers authentic Sapporo-style ramen featuring custom-ordered noodles and a complex chintan broth base. Located in Chinatown, the high-energy venue is celebrated for its dedication to traditional craft and its popular vegetarian ramen options.
A Massive Meatball Battle Starring Chefs From The Red Hen, Daikaya & More Heads To D.C.
Daikaya is featured as a key participant in a high-profile meatball competition in Washington, D.C., showcasing chefs from the city's top culinary destinations. The event highlights the restaurant's prominent standing and creative contributions within the local dining community.
Recent Reviews from Google
I normally don’t write reviews, but my experience at Daikaya was so awful that I have to. We requested a table for 4 adults and 2 toddlers (total of 6 people). They told us it would be a 25-minute...
The food was absolutely delicious! The bean sprouts cooked with the meat is genius! I enjoyed it so much! And the open kitchen concept to watch how your food is prepared made it all taste better in a...
Review is for izakaya upstairs. Really delicious unique small plates. Initially service was slow but the waitress was very kind and made up for it with drinks on the house. The cacio e pepe udon...
Disappointed with my experience at Daikaya. Our host and waiter did not seem happy to be there and we were provided with the absolute bare minimum service. While I appreciate getting a pitcher of...
Absolutely great ramen spot. Welcoming staff made us feel right at home—even with four kids in tow. Loved the cozy group table in the back and the fresh, modern vibe throughout. The broth was the...
