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Spices Asian Restaurant And Sushi BarB+Worth Trying

Name: Spices Asian Restaurant And Sushi Bar
Address: 3333 Connecticut Ave NW STE A, Washington, DC 20008, Washington, United States
Rating: 4.4

3333 Connecticut Ave NW STE A, Washington, DC 20008 · Asian restaurant, Japanese restaurant, Restaurant · 4.4/5 Google (508 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

Reliable neighborhood Asian fusion spot with fresh sushi, popular duck, and a value-heavy happy hour; service can be uneven and prices feel high outside promos.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Spices Asian Restaurant and Sushi Bar delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by fresh, generously cut sushi and reliable crispy duck that impress even seasoned travelers. Consistency challenges with noodles and calamari, paired with service pacing issues particularly with drink delivery, prevent grade A-grade performance. The convenient Zoo-adjacent location and excellent happy hour value make it a worthwhile neighborhood favorite for locals and visitors, though it lacks the distinctive execution or destination appeal of higher-rated establishments.

Restaurant Summary

Steps from the zoo, this spot feels like a friendly neighborhood hub where locals and visitors trade bar seats for rolls and noodles. Servers are warm if sometimes stretched, and several diners rave that the sashimi tastes "fresh like a Tokyo trip." Outside promos, prices can surprise, but happy hour turns it into a serious value play. The cooking leans pan-Asian fusion rather than purist tradition: Thai curries, Sichuan touches, Korean bulgogi buns, and a full sushi bar. Sushi and the crispy duck draw the most praise, while a few noodle dishes run soft or saucy. It suits diners who like variety over strict authenticity, and it rewards ordering across categories. Families will find it kid-friendly thanks to teriyaki, fried rice, tempura, and milder noodles. Portions are decent but not oversized, so consider sharing apps. If kiddos are adventurous, explore sushi basics; if not, stick to fried rice or teriyaki and skip the spicier, bolder plates.

At a Glance

Fresh, generously cut sushi that impresses seasoned travelers
Value-forward happy hour with strong drink discounts
Reliable crispy duck with classic sides
Service pacing can lag, especially drinks
Some dishes (noodles, calamari) can be inconsistent

What Sets It Apart

broad_pan_asian_menu
value_forward_happy_hour
neighborhood_location_near_zoo

What People Love

Fresh-tasting sashimi and thick nigiri cuts
Crispy-skinned duck with fresh garnishes
Wide menu that suits different spice levels
Happy hour that feels like a deal

Points of Concern

Occasional slow bar service and delayed checks, especially at peak times
A few dishes feel overpriced without promos
Noodle and calamari texture can be inconsistent
Review patterns show signs of promotional tone in a few posts; interpret ecstatic claims with context

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$42-60 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Build a sushi-focused meal plus one hot specialty for contrast
Share the Half Big Duck and supplement with a vegetable side
Use protein add-ons on curries or noodles to match appetite

Perfect For

Pre- or post-zoo casual meal
A sushi fix without downtown formality
Happy hour with snacks and drinks
Mixed-order tables craving variety

Location Insights

Area: Leafy, residential-leaning corridor near the National Zoo; draws families, locals, and visitors.

Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked main avenue with steady evening foot traffic.

Nearby: Close to Smithsonian National Zoo, apartment buildings, small shops, and other eateries on Connecticut Ave.

Cleveland ParkThe dining scene in Cleveland Park is diverse but leans towards casual and family-friendly establishments, with a mix of ethnic cuisines and neighborhood staples. The area is safe and accessible, attracting locals who prefer relaxed dining environments away from the busier downtown core.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday16:00–21:00 Tuesday16:00–21:00 Wednesday12:00–21:00 Thursday12:00–21:00 Friday12:00–21:30 Saturday12:00–21:30 Sunday16:00–21:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

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