NaRa-Ya

Perched high above the vibrant District Wharf, NaRa-Ya offers Washington, D.C. locals a truly elevated and unforgettable Japanese dining experience. This isn't just another sushi spot; it's a destination where traditional Japanese flavors meet contemporary culinary artistry, all set against a backdrop of stunning waterfront views. Whether you're seeking an intimate dinner, a lively happy hour, or a standout brunch, NaRa-Ya combines impeccable food quality, creative presentations, and extraordinary service to create a dining experience that consistently impresses. It's a place where every detail, from the decor to the last bite of dessert, adds to its undeniable charm and allure.

NaRa-Ya is strategically located at 88 District Square SW, Floor 3.1, Washington, DC 20024, USA. This places it within the dynamic and immensely popular District Wharf, a premier waterfront destination in D.C. Its elevated position on Floor 3.1 provides breathtaking views of the Washington Channel and the surrounding area, making the dining experience even more special. While street parking in The Wharf can be limited, NaRa-Ya is highly accessible via public transportation and rideshare services, which are strongly recommended. The restaurant is a manageable walk from the L'Enfant Plaza and Smithsonian Metro stations (serving the Orange, Blue, Silver, Green, and Yellow Lines), and is also near DC Circulator and various bus lines. For those arriving by car, several parking garages are available within The Wharf complex, although they can fill up quickly during peak times. The ease of reaching this vibrant waterfront location ensures that NaRa-Ya is a convenient and desirable choice for locals across the District of Columbia.

• Dine-In Service: NaRa-Ya offers a sophisticated and elegant dining room with a "super cute" decor and an inviting atmosphere. It is ideal for romantic dinners, celebratory occasions, and leisurely brunches.

• Brunch (Weekend): A highly praised offering, NaRa-Ya's weekend brunch features an "all you care to enjoy" small plates menu, often including signature dishes like French toast, matcha pancakes ("simply divine"), steak and eggs, Japanese fried chicken, and various sushi rolls (e.g., Spicy Salmon, California, Veggie rolls). They also offer bottomless mimosas and other brunch cocktails.

• Dinner Service: The dinner menu includes an elegant à la carte selection of traditional and contemporary Japanese dishes. This includes a variety of sushi and sashimi, unique specialty rolls (like A5 Wagyu Roll, Lobster Dynamite Roll, DC Diablo Roll, and NaRa-Ya Roll), and main courses such as Lobster Fried Rice, Koji Chicken Katsu, and Miso Glazed Salmon.

• Extensive Sushi & Sashimi Offerings: NaRa-Ya prides itself on expertly crafted sushi and sashimi, with a focus on authenticity and creativity. They source sustainable, farm-raised, and wild-caught global marine products, ensuring freshness and quality.

• Izakaya-style Small Plates: The menu features a variety of flavorful small plates and appetizers, often served in an izakaya style. Popular options include Blistered Shishito Peppers, Crispy Cauliflower, Crab Wonton Tacos, and various Gyoza (Beef, Chicken, or Veggie dumplings).

• Dessert Menu: A delightful selection of desserts is available, including Mochi Assortment, Yuzu Cheesecake, and unique creations like Jiggly Rabbit and Japanese Garden, perfect for concluding your meal.

• Extensive Bar & Beverage Program: NaRa-Ya boasts an impressive selection of sake and Japanese whisky, including rare and exceptional choices, alongside a full bar offering creative cocktails, wine, and Japanese beers. The tea selection is also highlighted as "fantastic."

• Takeout and Delivery: While primarily a dine-in experience, NaRa-Ya does offer takeout and delivery services through platforms like Uber Eats and Postmates, allowing you to enjoy their cuisine from home.

• Celebratory Services: The staff is known for going "above and beyond" to acknowledge special occasions like birthdays and accomplishments, often surprising guests with complimentary shots and desserts.

• Exceptional Brunch Program: NaRa-Ya's bottomless brunch with small plates is a significant highlight, consistently praised for being an "absolute winner" with "each dish packed with flavor." The "all you care to enjoy" model, combined with bottomless mimosas, makes it a top brunch destination in D.C.

• Divine Matcha Creations: Anything matcha-related, particularly the matcha pancakes, receives rave reviews and is described as "simply divine" and a "must-try."

• Stunning Ambiance and Decor: The restaurant features beautiful interior decor, an "inviting ambiance," and an "atmosphere that is super cute," adding significantly to the overall charm and dining experience.

• Impeccable Service: The staff is consistently described as "extraordinary," "solid," "attentive," and going "above and beyond" to make guests feel welcome. This commitment to world-class hospitality enhances every visit.

• High-Quality Ingredients and Flavorful Dishes: Despite some comments on portioning, the food is lauded for its "deliciously good" taste and "packed with flavor." Dishes like the French toast, steak and eggs, and the various sushi rolls are noted for their quality.

• Waterfront Views: Located on the 3.1 floor of District Square SW, NaRa-Ya offers picturesque views of The Wharf and the Washington Channel, providing a beautiful backdrop for any meal.

• Unique Beverage Selection: The extensive list of sake, Japanese whisky, and the "fantastic" tea selection are significant draws for beverage connoisseurs.

• Celebration-Friendly: The staff's willingness to acknowledge and enhance special occasions (like birthdays with complimentary shots and dessert) makes it a popular choice for celebrations.

NaRa-Ya is well-known for its excellent special offers, particularly its highly popular Happy Hour and Weekend Brunch programs, making it a favorite for Washington, D.C. locals looking for value and a great experience.

• Happy Hour: NaRa-Ya offers a Happy Hour typically from Tuesday to Sunday, between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM. During this time, guests can enjoy discounted prices on a selection of sushi rolls (e.g., Salmon Avocado Roll, Philly Roll, California Roll, Crispy Spicy Salmon for around $11-$12), and snacks (like Steamed/Spicy/Grilled Edamame, Beef/Chicken/Veggie Dumplings for around $10-$11), as well as special pricing on beverages, including certain beers, wines, and cocktails.

• Weekend Bottomless Brunch: This is arguably NaRa-Ya's most celebrated offering. Available on Saturdays and Sundays, usually from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM, the brunch features an "all you care to enjoy" small plates menu. While the price has varied (around $39-$49 per person), it includes unlimited servings of delicious dishes like French toast, matcha pancakes, steak and eggs, various sushi rolls, and Japanese fried chicken. Patrons can also opt for bottomless mimosas for an additional fee (often around $25-$32).

• Special Occasion Recognitions: While not a formal promotion, NaRa-Ya's staff is known for their exceptional hospitality during special occasions. Customers have reported receiving complimentary shots or desserts when celebrating birthdays or accomplishments, adding a delightful personal touch to their visit.

For the most current pricing and specific menu items for their happy hour and brunch, it's always recommended for D.C. locals to check NaRa-Ya's official website or call them directly.

To reserve your table or for any inquiries at NaRa-Ya, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 88 District Square SW, Floor 3.1, Washington, DC 20024, USA

• Phone: (202) 301-8145

NaRa-Ya's operating hours are:

• Dinner:

  • Tuesday - Thursday & Sunday: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

  • Friday - Saturday: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM

• Brunch:

  • Saturday & Sunday: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM

• Happy Hour:

  • Tuesday - Sunday: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

It's always recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours and reservation information, especially for holidays or special events.

For residents of the District of Columbia, NaRa-Ya stands out as an exceptional and highly suitable choice for Japanese dining, particularly for those seeking an elevated experience. Its prime location at The Wharf, offering breathtaking waterfront views from its elevated position, provides a stunning backdrop that enhances any meal, making it ideal for special occasions or simply a memorable night out. While parking can be tricky at The Wharf, the easy access via Metro and rideshare services makes it a convenient destination for locals across the city.

What truly resonates with D.C. locals is NaRa-Ya's commitment to quality and unique offerings. The immensely popular weekend bottomless brunch, with its "all you care to enjoy" small plates and bottomless mimosas, offers an incredible value and a delightful way to spend a weekend afternoon. The consistently praised "unmatched quality and freshness" of ingredients across their sushi and other dishes, including their "divine" matcha creations, ensures a truly satisfying culinary experience. Furthermore, the "extraordinary" and "attentive" staff, who go "above and beyond" to make guests feel welcome and even celebrate special occasions, create a warm and inviting atmosphere that fosters loyalty. For D.C. locals who appreciate fine Japanese cuisine, a beautiful ambiance, excellent service, and value-driven unique experiences like a bottomless brunch, NaRa-Ya at The Wharf is a must-visit destination that promises a consistently delightful and memorable dining adventure.

NaRa-Ya

88 District Square SW Floor 3.1, Washington, DC 20024, USA