Seemor
Rice Bar Market PlaceB-Worth Trying
801 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Plz, 04, Washington, DC 20004
· Restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (1546 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Highly customizable Korean bowls near the Mall with fast lines and fair prices; great for quick, fresh lunches but expect crowds, self-service, and occasional temperature or service inconsistencies.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
Rice Bar Market Place delivers reliable fast-casual Korean bowls with solid food quality and exceptional speed, but inconsistent execution—particularly lukewarm temperatures and variable portions—prevents a higher grade. Tight seating and crowding during lunch further limit the experience, though convenient location near the National Mall and customizable options make it a worthwhile neighborhood stop for quick, fresh meals.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels busy and upbeat, a fast-casual stop where office workers and museum-goers line up with pencils to check boxes on paper order sheets. One diner summed it up: "Fresh ingredients, quick service, and a bowl that hits the spot." Expect counter ordering, quick prep, and a bit of a seat hunt at lunch. Cooking leans approachable Korean with build-your-own bibimbap, ramen, and a few specials. It is more comfort-and-customize than purist tradition: think bulgogi, spicy chicken, tofu, and heaps of veg with gochujang or sesame oil. Great if you want a fast, fresh bowl; less ideal for those seeking deep, slow-simmered flavors, and temperature can vary when crowds surge. Families do well here thanks to simple proteins and noodles. Reviews mention a high chair offered and a separate gluten-free menu. Kids often enjoy rice with mild sauces or ramen; just avoid peak crush if you need a guaranteed table, and note the self-service setup.
At a Glance
- Fast, customizable Korean bowls with fresh ingredients
- Gluten-free menu and vegan/vegetarian options available
- Temperature inconsistencies (lukewarm rice/broth) reported
- Crowded lunch rush with limited seating
- Service tone can feel curt during peak times
What Sets It Apart
- paper_checklist_ordering
- gluten_free_menu_available
- fast_turnaround_at_peak
What People Love
- Building a bowl exactly to taste
- Fresh veggies and hearty rice options
- Fast turnaround even when busy
- Reasonable prices for downtown DC
- Kid-friendly choices and GF options
Points of Concern
- Lukewarm food and cold soup reports during busy periods
- Portion sizes can feel small or inconsistent; extra charges for add-ons
- Counter staff demeanor can be brusque, especially at lunch rush
- Review patterns show polarized experiences; set expectations for fast-casual model
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$18-$26 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Choose black or brown rice for texture; pair bulgogi with gochujang plus sesame oil; tofu works well with teriyaki or spicy marinade.
Perfect For
- Quick lunch near the Mall
- Customizable bowls after museum visits
- Solo weekday meals
- Family casual bite with flexible options
Location Insights
Area: Touristy, office-heavy corridor near museums; heavy weekday lunch rush and steady visitor traffic.
Safety: Well-patrolled federal area with high foot traffic; generally safe and well lit.
Nearby: Near National Mall museums, office buildings, and Metro stations; popular for quick lunches and sightseeing breaks.
Penn QuarterPenn Quarter is a vibrant urban neighborhood known for its cultural institutions, theaters, and a diverse dining scene ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The area is busy during weekdays with a strong lunchtime crowd and attracts tourists exploring nearby landmarks.
Market SquareMarket Square is a mixed-use development within Penn Quarter featuring retail shops, dining options, and office spaces. It serves as a convenient lunch and casual dining destination for nearby professionals and shoppers, with a modern and accessible atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–19:00
Tuesday11:00–19:00
Wednesday11:00–19:00
Thursday11:00–19:00
Friday11:00–19:00
Saturday11:00–19:00
Sunday
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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