The original Ari’s Diner, which was restaurateur Ari Gejdenson's first foray into the world of hospitality, is located in Florence, where it’s still serving American diner fare to Italian patrons. Gejdenson opened the spot while he was playing pro soccer overseas and looking for late-night establishments with food that reminded him of home. Back stateside with a sizable portfolio of restaurants under the Mindful Restaurant Group umbrella, Gejdensen has decided to recreate his original diner concept in Ivy City’s Hecht Warehouse. The space is modeled after a GMC Streamliner, with chrome as far as the eye can see. The menu includes well-executed versions of the classics—plenty of breakfast options (don’t miss the pancakes), organic burgers and milkshakes (boozy or regular). There’s also a section that pays homage to the first Ari’s Diner, with trattoria dinner specials like chicken parmesan and rigatoni al ragu.
Diners are a part of America’s heritage. Sure, the best French restaurants in Washington, DC and the best seafood restaurants in DC are always great dining destinations, but all Americans can conjure up childhood memories of sitting in a vinyl booth, putting too much syrup on pancakes while getting a brain freeze from a giant milkshake. And, as luck would have it, our town boasts a sizeable amount of luncheonettes and greasy spoons that serve the kind of comfort food (including some of the best burgers in DC) that you’re most likely always craving. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack, the best diners in DC have got you covered.