Dōgon

The story

Dōgon by Kwame Onwuachi: Afro-Caribbean Fine Dining in Washington, DC

The Story of Dōgon

Chef Kwame Onwuachi brings his acclaimed vision to Washington, D.C., with Dōgon, a restaurant that honors the West African lineage of the nation’s capital. Located along the revitalized Southwest waterfront in Salamander Washington DC, the concept is inspired by DC Surveyor Benjamin Banneker and his heritage connected to the West African Dogon tribe. Pronounced “Doh-gon,” the restaurant serves vibrant cuisine through an Afro-Caribbean lens, drawing from Onwuachi’s own Nigerian, Jamaican, Trinidadian, and Creole background.

The restaurant has earned a Michelin Recommended award, and has been celebrated by Esquire, Bon Appétit, The New York Times, and The World's 50 Best as one of North America’s best restaurants. This recognition is a natural extension of Onwuachi’s reputation, which includes being named Esquire’s Chef of the Year and a James Beard Award winner for Rising Star Chef.

The Kitchen and the Menu

Chef de Cuisine Martel Stone, a North Philadelphia native, brings his own interpretation of Contemporary Diaspora cuisine to the menu. A Food Network competition veteran, his cooking layers bold spices and herbs into each dish. The menu is a vibrant exploration of African and Caribbean cuisines, featuring shareable plates and larger entrees.

Start with snacks like Charbroiled Oysters with Croatian Butter and Red Stew, or Oxtail Patties with Tamarind. Small plates include Suya Pork Belly with Tamarind and Grilled Onion Soubise, and a Curry Beef Tartar with Green Seasoning and Turmeric Chips. For larger shares, the Brown Stew Snapper is jerk-marinated and served with Caramelized Onion and Rice & Peas, while the Braised Wagyu Oxtails come with Cho Cho and Thumbelina Carrot. Desserts like the Turmeric Cheesecake with Plum Jam and Thyme Anglaise offer a unique finish.

The Cocktail Program

The cocktail program, created in partnership with nationally acclaimed bartender Derek Brown, is a thoughtful complement to the food. It highlights Black-owned brands and creative interpretations of classic cocktails, with options like the Astronomer (Bayab African Gin, Housemade Chai Tea) and the Sorel Rickey (Equiano Rum, Sorel Liqueur). A selection of low- and no-alcohol offerings ensures there is something for everyone.