Seemor
Rice RestaurantBWorth Trying
1608 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
· Thai restaurant, Bar, Restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (366 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Vibrant Thai spot with a downstairs Asian market and a side of basic sushi; flavors mostly satisfying, but service consistency and allergy clarity can falter.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Rice delivers solid neighborhood Thai dining with strong food quality in classic dishes like pad thai and drunken noodles, supported by quick service and a vibrant 14th Street location. However, inconsistent execution—with reports of hit-or-miss seasoning and portion variation—and occasional service lapses prevent grade A-level reliability. Best suited for diners seeking casual Thai staples and neighborhood energy rather than precision dining.
Restaurant Summary
On 14th Street, Rice hums with a lively pre-evening buzz, the kind that makes a cocktail feel inevitable and noodles taste better. A downstairs market adds a playful detour. One diner summed it up: "Great vibes, quick plates, and the right start to a night out." Expect a cozy, energetic room and a neighborhood crowd that knows what they like. The cooking leans classic Thai with dependable standbys—pad thai with real tamarind, spicy curries, and drunken noodles—plus a sidecar of basic sushi and ramen. When the kitchen is on, flavors pop; when it is not, a few dishes skew salty or muted. This is elevated traditional cooking rather than high-concept fusion, best for those craving staples with swift bar service and happy hour deals. Families will do fine here: noodles, fried rice, and simple rolls fit many tastes, though there is no dedicated kids menu mentioned. For cautious eaters, stick to familiar dishes like pad thai, teriyaki bowls, or California rolls. Allergy diners should double-check ingredients, as labeling for vegan items has been inconsistent per reviews.
At a Glance
- Lively neighborhood vibe with a handy downstairs market
- Solid Thai staples; pad thai and drunken noodles draw repeat fans
- Ingredient labeling for vegan/allergy diners has inconsistencies
- Service can feel rushed near closing; occasional rudeness reported
- Parking is tough; plan for transit or rideshare
What Sets It Apart
- downstairs_asian_market
- happy_hour_sushi_and_cocktails
- neighborhood_regulars_loyalty
What People Love
- Cozy, buzzing room that feels welcoming
- Pad thai that tastes properly balanced
- Quick kitchen timing for weeknight dinners
- Browsing the market for sauces and snacks after eating
Points of Concern
- Allergy labeling mismatches noted (vegan item served with egg; shrimp paste not clearly disclosed)
- Table-turning pressure and early kitchen cutoff reported on busy nights
- Quality swings: occasional bland or oversalted dishes and variable portions
- Review patterns show balanced authenticity with mixed experiences; interpret extremes cautiously
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$30-42 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For kids or cautious eaters: California Roll ($8) and Vegetable Fried Rice ($10)
- For spice lovers: Drunken Noodles ($13-14 equivalent) and Green Curry (price not listed in provided menu)
Perfect For
- Happy hour sushi and cocktails before a night out
- Casual dinner with friends who like bold Thai flavors
- Solo bar meal with quick service
- Neighborhood regulars craving dependable staples
Location Insights
Area: Trendy urban corridor with bars, boutiques, and mixed residential; draws locals and pre-night-out crowds.
Safety: Generally safe, active foot traffic, well-lit main street; typical urban vigilance at night.
Nearby: Near Logan Circle shops, cocktail bars, and a small downstairs market tied to the restaurant.
Dupont CircleThe dining scene in Dupont Circle is eclectic, featuring a mix of upscale restaurants, casual eateries, and trendy bars. The area is popular for both locals and visitors seeking diverse cuisines in a walkable, energetic urban environment.
14th Street CorridorThe 14th Street Corridor is known for its dynamic restaurant scene, with a concentration of hip eateries, cocktail bars, and late-night venues. It has a modern, energetic vibe that attracts a crowd looking for contemporary dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–22:00
Tuesday11:30–22:00
Wednesday11:30–22:00
Thursday11:30–22:00
Friday11:30–22:30
Saturday11:30–22:30
Sunday11:30–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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