Where authentic Korean tradition meets Washington D.C.'s evolving culinary landscape, Mandu stands as the capital's pioneering destination for genuine Korean cuisine, transforming the city's understanding of this rich culinary heritage beyond familiar favorites into the soul-warming depths of homestyle cooking.

Founded in 2006 by Chef Yesoon Lee and her son Danny Lee, Mandu emerged from a simple yet profound realization: Washington D.C. lacked authentic, full-service Korean dining despite the vibrant Korean communities in surrounding Virginia suburbs. The Lee family's vision centered on sharing traditional family recipes and the communal dining rituals that define Korean culture. After the original Dupont Circle location suffered a devastating fire in 2017, the restaurant found new life in Mount Vernon Triangle, where it continues to earn acclaim. Danny Lee's dedication has garnered James Beard semifinalist recognition, while Mandu has claimed Washington City Paper's "Best Korean" title annually since 2010 and earned Michelin Guide recommendations in 2016 and 2017.

The cuisine at Mandu celebrates the authentic baekban dining tradition—steamed rice, soup, and an array of banchan side dishes served simultaneously, encouraging the leisurely, communal experience central to Korean meals. Signature dishes include the restaurant's namesake mandu dumplings, plump parcels of beef and pork wrapped in delicate skins and pan-seared to crispy perfection. The soul-stirring gamjatang showcases tender bone-in pork ribs and potatoes swimming in a fiery red broth ignited with gochugaru and perilla seeds. Traditional dduk guk rice cake soup, served during Lunar New Year celebrations, features rich beef stock and tender brisket. The menu extends to beloved classics like bulgogi's sweet-savory marinated beef and the rare-in-D.C. jajangmyeon Korean-Chinese noodles, all prepared with house-made kimchi and carefully crafted banchan.

Mandu's Mount Vernon Triangle location features soaring ceilings and an inviting long bar, creating an atmosphere that balances urban sophistication with the warmth of Korean family hospitality. The dining experience emphasizes comfort and community over formality, with service that treats guests like extended family. The restaurant operates with a philosophy rooted in genuine care, from the kitchen to the front of house. A seasonal patio offers additional seating on a first-come basis, while the bar remains open until 11 PM Thursday through Sunday, featuring traditional Korean beverages alongside the extensive menu.

For discerning diners seeking Washington D.C. fine dining with authentic cultural depth, Mandu offers an irreplaceable experience in Korean culinary tradition. Reservations are recommended for this intimate space where every meal becomes a celebration of heritage, flavor, and the Lee family's enduring commitment to sharing Korea's greatest culinary treasures with the nation's capital.