Royal

The story

Royal Washington DC: Latin American All-Day Eatery and Cocktail Bar

Royal: Coffee Shop, Cocktail Bar, and All-Day Eatery in LeDroit Park

In the heart of Washington's historic LeDroit Park neighborhood, Royal is an all-day destination that shifts effortlessly from morning coffee spot to evening bar and kitchen. Opened in the summer of 2015 by restaurateur Paul Carlson alongside his parents Ron and Gloria, and his sister Katrina, the restaurant takes its name from the Royal Liquor Store that previously occupied the space. The Carlsons’ international background and love of cooking, good drinks, and time with family inform the concept.

By day, Royal serves Counter Culture Coffee, pastries, and breakfast and lunch dishes—house biscuits with fermented chile butter, arepas with eggs and chorizo, and lox tartines are among the options. Free WiFi invites guests to linger. As the day progresses, the kitchen fires up its wood-burning grill, turning out simple yet creative fare rooted in Latin American cuisine. Starters include sweet corn arepitas with roasted garlic brown butter, crab masa beignets, and pork empanadas. For the table, a citrus kale salad, crispy Brussels sprouts with squash mole, and masa gnocchi with braised beef and maitake mushroom show the kitchen’s range. Entrees range from ajiaco—a roasted chicken soup with potatoes and avocado—to a South American steak frites with Rosada Farms hanger steak and yuca fries.

The bar program is equally thoughtful, with an eclectic variety of local beers, wines, and original cocktails. House drinks like the Ode to Colombia (aguardiente, lulo, mandarin, panela) and La Guajira (reposado tequila, mango, guanabana) reflect the same Latin American spirit as the food. Classic cocktails and coffee cocktails round out the list.

Royal’s consistent quality and welcoming atmosphere earned it a place among Michelin’s Recommended restaurants in Washington, D.C.—a recognition that aligns with the family-run spot’s commitment to straightforward, flavorful cooking. Whether stopping in for a morning cortado, an afternoon bowl, or an evening parrillada for two, Royal offers a genuine taste of the Carlsons’ vision. Outdoor and indoor dining are available, as is takeout and delivery.