Washington, DC’s hospitality scene is under pressure again. Not from COVID this time, but from a wave of federal crackdowns and heightened enforcement that has local restaurant and bar owners sounding the alarm. Shawn Townsend, President & CEO of the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington, summed it up plainly: “This is our pandemic 2.0.”
The Hit to Local Businesses
Restaurants, bars, and nightlife spots—especially the smaller, family-owned ones—are seeing empty tables, canceled reservations, and fearful employees. Some owners report sales dropping 40–50% compared to last year, while others are cutting menus or laying off staff just to stay afloat.
What makes this sting even more is how quickly it’s happened. Just as many mom-and-pop spots were finding their rhythm post-pandemic, this surge of federal enforcement has created a chilling effect. Workers are scared, tourists are hesitant, and the entire ecosystem—from kitchens to corner bars—is taking a hit.
Why It Matters
When we talk about DC culture, food is at the center of it. From soul food spots in Southeast like Miss Toya’s, to Black-owned cocktail bars on U Street, to family-run Ethiopian restaurants that define “Little Ethiopia”—these aren’t just businesses. They’re our community hubs. They sponsor the kickball teams, hire the cousins, host first dates, and feed the block.
If these places close, we lose more than a meal. We lose culture. We lose history. We lose safe spaces that have carried us for decades.
How We Can Show Up
Just like we rallied around our favorite spots during COVID, this is another moment to be intentional. Here’s how to make an impact:
- Dine Local: Pick a neighborhood spot instead of a chain when you go out.
- Takeout Nights: Even one or two nights a week ordering from your go-to mom & pop makes a difference.
- Tip Well: Staff are feeling the squeeze. A few extra dollars on your tip can go a long way.
- Spread the Word: Post about your meal, tag the restaurant, and let folks know they’re open and worth supporting.
The Bigger Picture
We may not control federal policy, but we can control how we move as a community. DC businesses are resilient, but resilience only goes so far without real support. Just like before—we’ve got to show up for the spots that show up for us.
Because saving our restaurants isn’t just about food. It’s about keeping DC’s culture alive.
Check In, Show Love, Earn Points
MVEMNT is making it easier than ever to support local. Through our Black-Owned Business Check-In System on the MVEMNT app, you can visit the businesses on our curated list, check in when you’re there, and earn points for showing love to the community. It’s our way of rewarding you for doing what matters most—keeping DC’s culture thriving.
Here’s how it works:
Visit one of the featured businesses on our list
Check in through the app when you arrive
Earn points that you can redeem for rewards, perks, and exclusive MVEMNT experiences
Featured Businesses:
- The Park at 14th
- Miss Toya’s
- Lydia On H
- Cafe Saint Ex
- Focus DC
- Ben’s Chili Bowl
- Sost
- Gaia Supper Club
- Llamabar Cafe
- Kata
- Black & Forth
- Fishscale
- 1942DC
- Jerk at Nite
- Sandlot
What You Can Earn:
Other community perks designed to keep you tapped in and rewarded
Discounted or free tickets to MVEMNT events
Exclusive merch drops
VIP upgrades for block parties and festivals
Priority access to special events