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Nestled in the heart of Washington, DC, Pascual offers a vibrant dining experience that celebrates the rich, authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine through a carefully curated dinner menu. Guests can expect a delightful journey of wood-fired dishes, fresh ingredients, and traditional recipes that shine with creativity and boldness.
Starters to awaken your palate
Begin your meal with Pascual's exquisite selection of starters designed to excite and surprise. The signature Guacamole and Tostadas delivers creamy avocados blended with lime, salt, and a medley of spicy to smoky salsas including salsa macha and salsa habanero, finished with pickled jalapeños and piña for a complex flavor profile.
For a taste of classic Mexican street food elevated to fine dining, try the Taco al Pastor featuring tender roasted pork paired with sweet pineapple and vibrant salsa cruda and salsa morita. Seafood lovers will appreciate the freshness of Oysters in Aguachile, highlighted by serrano and tomatillo, or the delicate Scallop Ceviche with smoked strawberry and rhubarb, accented by morita chili.
Other must-tries include the Steak Tartare, combining tender beef with peanut salsa and burnt tortilla aioli for a smoky twist, as well as the White Bean Tlayuda, featuring rich chorizo verde and rojo alongside a spicy guacachile. The Grilled Squid with salsa negra and masa cream offers a savory, satisfying bite, while the Bluefin Tuna Tostada brings together fresh tuna, mandarin kosho, serrano, and avocado for a refreshing start.
Mains that showcase bold, authentic flavors
The main courses at Pascual are thoughtfully crafted to highlight Mexico's diverse culinary heritage. The Chayote Salad offers a crisp, refreshing combination of chayote, sunflower seeds, guajillo oil, and Asian pears, while Fideos Negros features black noodles with earthy huitlacoche, mushrooms, and black garlic for an umami-packed dish.
Vegetarian options shine with the Fava Bean Sope, topped with smoked goat ricotta, ramps, and mole verde. The Roasted Carrots are caramelized to perfection with amaranth, habanero, and golden raisins, offering a sweet and spicy balance. For meat lovers, the Smoked Half Chicken served with fried rice, salsa morita, and spring onions delivers smoky, layered flavors.
Indulge in the robust Lamb Neck Barbacoa slow-cooked with beans, salsa cruda, and fresh herbs, or enjoy the Dorada a la Brasa, a grilled fish accompanied by morel mushrooms, pasilla chile, and charred greens. The Wagyu Sirloin is a standout, featuring tender wagyu beef with mole negro, maitake mushrooms, and refried beans, epitomizing decadence and Mexican tradition.
Desserts to satisfy your sweet cravings
Conclude your meal with Pascual's refined dessert offerings that blend traditional Mexican sweets with inventive twists. The Plantain dessert combines caramelized plantains with milk chocolate, miso, and caramel for a rich, indulgent treat. Buñuelos bring a crispy, fried delight paired with burnt vanilla, cajeta, and Mexican chocolate, while the Tres Leches Cake is luxuriously soaked and accented with lovage, rhubarb, and vanilla for a refreshing finish.
Drinks and specials crafted for memorable moments
Pascual's beverage program is a highlight, with cocktails praised for their complexity and craftsmanship. Standout drinks like the Verde y Verde, featuring green chile flavors, perfectly complement the robust flavors of the menu. The restaurant also serves a curated selection of beer, wine, and coffee to accompany your dining experience, making every visit a celebration of Mexican culinary artistry.
