Love, Makoto

In the vibrant heart of Washington, D.C., Love, Makoto stands as a truly unique and ambitious culinary destination, a "love letter" to Japan from celebrity Chef Makoto Okuwa. This isn't just one restaurant; it's a multi-concept Japanese food hall, meticulously designed to offer a diverse range of authentic and innovative Japanese dining experiences under one roof. From exquisite high-end sushi to lively izakaya fare, comforting ramen, and delightful desserts, Love, Makoto provides D.C. locals with an unparalleled journey through Japan's rich culinary landscape, promising unmatched quality, fresh ingredients, and world-class service.

Love, Makoto is strategically located at 200 Massachusetts Ave NW, Suite 150, Washington, DC 20001, USA, within the Capitol Crossing development. This prime address places it in a highly accessible area of downtown D.C., near significant landmarks and transportation hubs. It's just a few blocks from the Judiciary Square Metro station (Red Line) and within walking distance of the Union Station Metro (Red Line) and Capitol Hill, making it incredibly convenient for D.C. residents and visitors alike. Numerous bus routes also traverse Massachusetts Avenue and surrounding streets. For those driving, Love, Makoto offers convenient self-parking. Guests can utilize the garage under the building next door at 250 Massachusetts Ave NW, with the entrance to the garage found at 3rd and G Streets Northwest. This ease of access, whether by public transit or car, enhances Love, Makoto's appeal as a go-to dining destination in the nation's capital.

Love, Makoto is a singular establishment housing multiple distinct Japanese dining concepts:

• Love on the Run: A fast-casual concept offering Chef Makoto's take on Japanese favorites. This includes house-made noodles, freshly baked buns, lovingly crafted ramen broths (like Shio, Miso, Spicy Miso, and Nagoya Tantanmen), new spins on sushi rolls (such as Shrimp Tempura, Spicy Tuna, Yuzu Salmon & Avocado, California, and Veggie Rolls), fresh salads (e.g., Kale Soba, Japanese Chopped), curry dishes, chicken karaage, and delightful desserts like donuts and ice cream. It's designed for quick, high-quality meals.

• Dear Sushi: A more refined sushi experience, celebrating both traditional and "envelope-pushing" takes on sushi. Dear Sushi offers omakase (chef's choice) experiences alongside à la carte options, focusing on high-quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship.

• Beloved BBQ: A Japanese steakhouse where each table features smokeless grills. Guests can cook premium Japanese A-5 Wagyu and heritage-breed American beef to their liking, offering a unique interactive dining experience.

• Hiya Izakaya: A high-energy izakaya and Japanese bar. This walk-in only spot offers a range of skewers and small bites prepared over a robata grill, complemented by a selection of whisky highballs, sake, and other beverages, perfect for a lively evening.

• Takeout and Delivery: Love on the Run offers comprehensive takeout and delivery services, allowing locals to enjoy their favorite fast-casual Japanese dishes from the comfort of their home or office. Orders can be placed online through their website or via popular delivery platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash.

• Private Events & Catering: With its expansive space and multiple culinary concepts, Love, Makoto can accommodate various private events, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations, offering customized menus and experiences.

• Celebrity Chef Makoto Okuwa's Vision: The entire establishment is a culinary "love letter" from renowned Chef Makoto Okuwa, bringing his expertise and passion for authentic Japanese cuisine to D.C. This ensures a high standard of quality across all concepts.

• Unmatched Quality and Freshness: Reviewers consistently rave about the "unmatched quality and freshness of their ingredients," noting that from the first bite, it's clear "they use only the finest products." This dedication translates into pure, authentic, and unforgettable flavors.

• Diverse Culinary Journey Under One Roof: Love, Makoto's unique multi-concept design allows diners to choose their experience based on their mood and preference, from the casual grab-and-go of Love on the Run to the refined omakase at Dear Sushi, the interactive grilling at Beloved BBQ, or the lively atmosphere of Hiya Izakaya.

• Exceptional Sushi and Ramen: Specific dishes receive high praise, such as the Shrimp Tempura roll from Love on the Run, described as "one of the best I’ve ever had." Their ramen, with lovingly crafted broths and house-made noodles, is also a standout.

• Outstanding Hospitality and Attentive Staff: The staff is consistently highlighted for being "kind, attentive, and always going above and beyond." Special shout-outs, like to Robin, emphasize their "exceptional hospitality and expert recommendations," making every visit a "perfect 10 out of 10."

• Beautiful and Thoughtful Design: The overall ambiance and design of Love, Makoto are noted for their elegance and modernity, creating a welcoming and sophisticated environment across all dining spaces.

• Family-Friendly Options: With dishes like delicious donuts and ice cream, and a variety of appealing options at different price points, Love, Makoto caters to diners of all ages, making it suitable for family outings.

Love, Makoto offers several enticing promotions, primarily at its Hiya Izakaya concept. This makes it a fantastic spot for Washington, D.C. locals to enjoy high-quality Japanese small plates and drinks at a great value.

• Hiya Izakaya Happy Hour: The Izakaya features a robust happy hour. While exact timings may vary, typical happy hour hours are Monday from 4 PM - 10 PM and Tuesday - Sunday from 4 PM - 6 PM. During this period, guests can enjoy special deals on a rotating selection of beverages, including discounted Sapporo draft beer, select sake, wines by the glass, and cocktails like the "Dekopon Daisy."

• Happy Hour Bites: Complementing the drink specials, Hiya Izakaya's happy hour also includes attractive prices on various "bites" and skewers. These often feature popular items like tuna crispy rice, tsukune (chicken meatball skewer), a sesame-cabbage salad, and char-grilled chicken wings. These small plates are typically available for a set price, offering excellent value.

• Special Events and Collaborations: As a high-profile establishment from a celebrity chef, Love, Makoto occasionally hosts special culinary events, tasting menus, or collaborations, which may be announced on their official website or social media channels. These events often provide unique dining opportunities.

For the most current and specific details on happy hour offerings and any upcoming special events, D.C. locals are encouraged to visit Love, Makoto's official website or check their social media platforms.

To embark on a culinary journey at Love, Makoto, or for inquiries, you can reach them at:

• Address: 200 Massachusetts Ave NW Suite 150, Washington, DC 20001, USA

• Phone: (202) 992-7730

Love, Makoto operates with varying hours for its different concepts. It's always best to check their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date schedule, especially for individual concepts like Dear Sushi, Beloved BBQ, and Hiya Izakaya. However, general operating hours for the broader Love, Makoto establishment are:

• Every Day: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Specific concept hours within Love, Makoto:

• Love on the Run (Fast Casual): 11 AM - 10 PM Daily

• Dear Sushi (Lunch): 11 AM - 2 PM Monday - Friday

• Dear Sushi (Dinner): 5 PM - 10 PM Daily

• Beloved BBQ: 5 PM - 10 PM Daily

• Hiya Izakaya: 4 PM - 10 PM Daily

Happy Hour at Hiya Izakaya is generally 4 PM - 10 PM on Monday and 4 PM - 6 PM Tuesday - Sunday.

For residents of the District of Columbia, Love, Makoto represents a truly exceptional and versatile Japanese dining experience, making it highly suitable for a wide array of local preferences and occasions. Its central and easily accessible location in the Capitol Crossing development, with convenient parking options, ensures that it's a practical choice for anyone across the city, whether visiting for a quick lunch or a special evening out.

What truly sets Love, Makoto apart for locals is its innovative multi-concept approach. This means that whether you're craving a casual, yet incredibly satisfying ramen or sushi roll from Love on the Run, seeking a refined and artful omakase experience at Dear Sushi, an interactive and premium grilling adventure at Beloved BBQ, or a lively social evening with drinks and small bites at Hiya Izakaya, Love, Makoto has a dedicated space and menu to fulfill that desire. This unique versatility caters to diverse tastes and budgets, ensuring there's always something perfectly suited for your mood.

Beyond the impressive range of offerings, the consistent praise for the "unmatched quality and freshness of their ingredients" underscores Chef Makoto Okuwa's commitment to culinary excellence. This, combined with the "world-class service" and "exceptional hospitality" from staff members like Robin, transforms a meal into an unforgettable experience. For D.C. locals who appreciate authentic Japanese flavors, innovative dining concepts, and a commitment to quality and service that goes "above and beyond," Love, Makoto is not just a restaurant—it's a landmark culinary destination that embodies a true "love letter" to the art of Japanese cuisine.

Love, Makoto

200 Massachusetts Ave NW Suite 150, Washington, DC 20001, USA