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Bad Saint was a trailblazing Filipino restaurant in Washington, D.C., celebrated for its intimate 24-seat dining experience and innovative dishes. It received significant acclaim, including being named the No. 2 best new restaurant in America by Bon Appétit in 2016. The restaurant closed its doors on July 9, 2022, after facing challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. ([washingtonian.com](https://www.washingtonian.com/2022/07/11/pioneering-filipino-restaurant-bad-saint-has-closed-2/?utm_source=openai))

Discovering bad saint the heart of washington dc's culinary scene.

Nestled in the vibrant Northwest Washington neighborhood, Bad Saint was more than just a restaurant—it was a pioneering culinary gem that redefined Filipino cuisine in the heart of Washington, DC. With an intimate setting that seated only 24 guests, this cozy enclave offered a uniquely personal dining experience that drew food enthusiasts and locals alike who craved innovative, flavorful dishes.

Bad Saint was celebrated for its masterful elevation of traditional Filipino dishes into an extraordinary tasting adventure. Diners enjoyed shareable plates bursting with bold flavors and surprising combinations—from the tangy bitterness of the famous Bitter Melon stir-fry to the rich and crispy duck skin that stood out as a highlight for many. The chefs crafted each dish with precision, accompanied by exquisite sauces that perfectly complemented every bite.

Whether you were a seasoned vegetarian or a devoted meat lover, the menu offered hearty, interesting options that satisfied diverse palates. Highlights included a refreshing rice and Asian pear salad, delicate squid puffs with unique sauces, and a luscious Filipino sweet rice dessert to round out the meal. Cocktails, featuring creative blends like coconut vodka spirits and rye-based Manhattan-style drinks, perfectly paired with the culinary offerings.

Bad Saint’s charm was amplified by its warm and attentive staff, who were known for accommodating dietary restrictions with genuine care and expertise. The intimate layout, with most seats facing cozy windows or walls, fostered a sense of connection among diners, often leading to new friendships sparked during wait times. Many patrons recommended arriving early and sharing larger tables to enjoy a variety of dishes and the vibrant social atmosphere.

Despite its small size, Bad Saint became a culinary landmark, earning accolades such as being named the No. 2 best new restaurant in America by Bon Appétit in 2016. 

Its dedication to Filipino culture and cuisine left a lasting impression on Washington, DC’s food scene.

Although Bad Saint closed its doors on July 9, 2022, due to the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, its impact continues to resonate. The community remembers it fondly as a trailblazer that embraced Filipino flavors with passion and creativity, delivering an unforgettable, intimate dining experience that few could match. Its cozy setting, friendly service, and consistently excellent cuisine made every visit feel like a special occasion.

frequently asked questions about bad saint

 Bad Saint was known for its intimate 24-seat dining experience and innovative Filipino dishes.

 Bad Saint closed due to challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, including financial difficulties and health concerns.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Northwest Washington, DC, **Bad Saint** is a culinary gem that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of the Philippines. This cozy restaurant, with its intimate seating for just 40 guests, offers a unique dining experience that is both personal and flavorful. The ambiance is warm and inviting, adorned with Filipino art and decor that reflects the rich culture and heritage of the islands. As you step inside, the tantalizing aromas of traditional dishes fill the air, beckoning you to explore the menu.

 Bad Saint is renowned for its creative take on Filipino cuisine, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts and adventurous eaters alike. The restaurant's signature dishes, such as the **Bitter Melon Stir-Fry** and the **Radish in Coconut Cream**, showcase the bold flavors and unique ingredients that define Filipino cooking. The Bitter Melon Stir-Fry, with its perfect balance of bitterness and savory sauce, is a dish that you won't soon forget. Meanwhile, the Radish in Coconut Cream offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it a standout on the menu.

At Bad Saint, every dish is crafted with care and creativity, ensuring a memorable dining experience. The menu is intentionally limited, allowing the chefs to focus on quality and seasonal ingredients. Each plate is designed for sharing, encouraging a communal dining experience that fosters connection and conversation. The **Duck with Crispy Skin** is a highlight, boasting a perfectly rendered skin and tender meat that melts in your mouth. Pair it with one of their expertly crafted cocktails, like the coconut vodka-infused drink, to elevate your meal.

One of the unique aspects of Bad Saint is its commitment to showcasing Filipino culture through food. The chef's choice menu rotates daily, offering diners a chance to experience new and exciting flavors. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, often sharing stories about the dishes and their origins. This personal touch enhances the dining experience, making each visit feel special.

 Bad Saint is known for its authentic Filipino dishes, creative cocktails, and a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere.

 Visiting Bad Saint offers a unique opportunity to experience elevated Filipino cuisine in a warm and inviting setting, perfect for food lovers.

 Bad Saint is conveniently located near several attractions in Northwest Washington, making it a perfect stop after exploring the local area.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, Bad Saint promises a dining experience that is both delightful and memorable. Make your reservation today to savor the flavors of the Philippines in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Don't miss out on this culinary adventure!

A cozy, transporting enclave specializing in Filipino dishes, cocktails & culture.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNBdEpHa1dREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJbdq0pR7It4kRIHzjG70zNNY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNBdEpHa1dREAE

I arrived to the restaurant at 3:30 p.m. on a Monday and discovered and I was the first in getting there. The line didn’t really start intensifying until an hour later.

During the two-hour wait I made a friend in line while we each waited for a friend. We ended up eating together in a table of 4, which is the largest Bad Saint offers.

I highly recommend arriving early and getting a larger table to be able to try more dishes. We had 6 dishes among us, and paid $40 each plus tip. Dishes are large enough that you wouldn’t want to be eating them solo.

For a place with such an elegantly short menu, waiters were super accommodating with dietary restrictions and allergies: they helped us with the selections and offered to put items on the side. The staff, all together, are some of the nicest and most helpful people you will meet!

The wait was definitely worth it. I experienced the most pleasant two hours with new friends over lots of flavourful unique dishes — every single of which I enjoyed. My favorite one was the Bitter Melon stir-fry. Not everyone at the table loved it but if you like bitter and unique bites, I would recommend it. Bad Saint is particularly amazing at making the best sauces to accompany each dish.

Photo credits go to my friend Lee.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNNb1lIY2RREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJbdq0pR7It4kRIHzjG70zNNY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNNb1lIY2RREAE

We got lucky with day-of reservations for dinner and really enjoyed ourselves! The restaurant space is very small - 40 seats tops - most of which are facing the window or wall. It's beautifully decorated and comfortable but certainly not for a large group. Onto the food:

Wow! It's very cool to see food from the Philippines elevated to this level. I'm a vegetarian but my partner isn't and we both found hearty, interesting dishes that we could enjoy. The portion sizes are actually bigger than I thought they would be and we took leftovers after getting 4 dishes between 2 people. The radish dish in coconut cream was amazing and so special and it's not to miss. The complimentary dessert was also a nice touch. I really enjoyed my cocktail too which had a coconut vodka-type spirit with some really interesting flavors, and the rye drink reminiscent of a Manhattan was also fantastic.

This is such a great spot for a special meal!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNvdUl6WWR3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJbdq0pR7It4kRIHzjG70zNNY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNvdUl6WWR3EAE

The rice and asian pear salad was a light and refreshing start to a delicious meal. The veggie mix that came with rice was delicious.

The duck with crispy skin was the highlight of the meal and definitely stood above all the other dishes.

The squid puffs were very light and delicious, but the sauce was surprisingly fishy, which is something I wasn't used to.

The spaghetti was very well made, with a perfect handmade noodle.

The Filipino sweet rice dessert was semi-sweet and very filling end to a great meal.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURrNy1iYVV3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJbdq0pR7It4kRIHzjG70zNNY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURrNy1iYVV3EAE

Wednesday Morning 11:00am. In order to secure a spot at Bad Saint,  you will need to be on their website reservation page at that time. If not, better luck next week. Hopefully you are lucky enough to lock down a table, because it is a very unique and pleasant dining experience. A cozy and unique setting places you at a small table or counter like seating area. Service is quick and offers a limited but creative menu. Every day contains a chef's choice as well, which takes you through a rotation of on and off menu dishes (we went with this). Each dish had something that made it both delicious and different from anything we have ever had(sauce, pepper, style of cooking etc). Everything is shareable plates, and doesn't require any extra seasonings or sauces that they do not provide. Excellent overall experience and worth putting a little extra effort into getting that reservation.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURvbU03b3R3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJbdq0pR7It4kRIHzjG70zNNY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURvbU03b3R3RRAB

I've been to Bad Saint several times now and it never disappoints. The menu is updated frequently with seasonal options. Staff is incredibly knowledgeable and willing to answer questions about the menu and give recommendations. The owner is incredibly kind and passionate about food. Plus the cozy setting makes you feel like being there is a real treat. Absolutely lives up to the hype.

Experience Authentic Filipino Cuisine at Bad Saint, Washington, DC

Bad Saint was a pioneering Filipino restaurant in Washington, D.C., known for its intimate 24-seat dining experience and innovative dishes. It garnered significant acclaim, including being named the No. 2 best new restaurant in America by Bon Appétit in 2016. The restaurant closed its doors on July 9, 2022, after facing challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. ([washingtonian.com](https://www.washingtonian.com/2022/07/11/pioneering-filipino-restaurant-bad-saint-has-closed-2/?utm_source=openai))

The Legacy of Bad Saint: A Culinary Journey Through Time in Washington, D.C.

The iconic Filipino restaurant that transformed the dining scene

Nestled in the heart of Northwest Washington, D.C., Bad Saint made its mark as a pioneering Filipino restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and intimate dining experience. With only 24 seats, this cozy enclave quickly became a favorite among food enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of flavors that transported diners straight to the Philippines.

A Timeline of Bad Saint's Remarkable Journey

2015: Bad Saint opened its doors in Washington, D.C.

2016: Named No. 2 best new restaurant in America by Bon Appétit.

2019: Chef Tom Cunanan won the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic.

2020: Chef Tom Cunanan departed from Bad Saint, marking a pivotal change.

2022: Bad Saint closed its doors on July 9, after facing challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The journey of Bad Saint reflects not only the passion of its founders but also the vibrant Filipino culture that it showcased. From its inception in 2015, it quickly garnered acclaim for its culinary offerings, evolving into a true culinary landmark in Washington, D.C. The recognition by Bon Appétit in 2016 as the No. 2 best new restaurant in America further solidified its status, attracting food lovers eager to experience its intimate dining atmosphere. Chef Tom Cunanan's award in 2019 further highlighted the restaurant's dedication to excellence in Filipino cuisine.

The closure of Bad Saint in July 2022 marked the end of an era for those who cherished its unique offerings. Its impact on the culinary landscape remains profound, leaving behind a legacy that inspired many to explore the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine. The restaurant not only served incredible meals but also fostered a sense of community among its patrons, who often formed friendships while waiting for a table.

As we reflect on the history of Bad Saint, we celebrate its contributions to the culinary scene and the way it introduced a wider audience to the vibrant tastes of the Philippines. Though its doors may be closed, its spirit lives on in the hearts and palates of those fortunate enough to dine there.

Takeout

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Outdoor Seating

Serves Cocktails

Bad Saint

Savor authentic Filipino cuisine at Bad Saint in Northwest Washington. Experience bold flavors and vibrant dishes. Reserve your table now!

Bad Saint: Authentic Filipino Dining in DC

Washington Municipality

Bad Saint: A Cozy Filipino Culinary Gem in Washington DC's Northwest Neighborhoods 

 

Discover Bad Saint, a vibrant restaurant nestled at 3226 11th St NW in Washington, DC. This intimate dining spot has swiftly become a beloved destination for food enthusiasts craving authentic Filipino flavors elevated with a modern twist. Whether you’re a local or a traveler seeking a unique gastronomic adventure, Bad Saint promises a memorable experience filled with flavorful dishes, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Located in the heart of Northwest Washington, Bad Saint offers a cozy and beautifully decorated space that seats around 40 guests. The intimate setting encourages social dining at small tables or counter seating, making it perfect for sharing plates with friends or making new ones while you wait. Due to its popularity, securing a reservation can be challenging, so an early booking is highly recommended to enjoy this culinary treasure without the wait.

Authentic Filipino Flavors with a Contemporary Edge

Bad Saint’s menu focuses on a rotating selection of Filipino dishes that highlight bold flavors and fresh, seasonal ingredients. The elegant but concise menu offers shareable plates that encourage guests to explore a variety of tastes and textures. Exceptional dishes like the Bitter Melon stir-fry bring exciting, unique flavors to the palate, especially for those who appreciate culinary adventure. Vegetarians and meat-lovers alike will find hearty and satisfying options, such as the acclaimed rice and Asian pear salad, the crispy duck with perfectly rendered skin, and light squid puffs accompanied by inventive sauces.

Beyond the delicious food, Bad Saint is known for its warm and knowledgeable staff who are attentive to dietary restrictions and allergies, offering helpful guidance on menu selections. Their accommodating approach ensures every guest enjoys a personalized and delightful dining experience. The cozy ambiance paired with a passion for Filipino culture makes the restaurant a true enclave transporting you to the Philippines through vibrant plates and stories.

Drinks and Desserts to Complete Your Meal

Complement your flavorful feast with a curated selection of cocktails, including innovative mixes featuring coconut vodka spirits and rye-based drinks reminiscent of classic Manhattans. Beer and wine are also available for those who prefer traditional pairings. Don’t miss the complimentary Filipino sweet rice dessert, which offers a semi-sweet, satisfying conclusion to your meal. Outdoor seating options provide a lovely atmosphere to enjoy your drinks and desserts while soaking in the neighborhood's charm.

 as tables fill quickly, especially for larger groups wanting to sample more dishes.

 to experience the best variety of flavors and enjoy hearty portion sizes.

 featuring unique spirits that showcase Filipino influences.

Discovering Bad Saint: A Unique Filipino Culinary Gem in Washington DC  

Nestled on 11th Street Northwest in Washington DC, Bad Saint offers an intimate and unforgettable dining experience centered around innovative Filipino cuisine. This cozy spot, seating only 24 guests, has garnered national acclaim thanks to chef Tom Cunanan's creative approach that elevates traditional dishes with bold, unique flavors and expertly crafted sauces.

 – The restaurant’s small, warmly decorated space offers a cozy atmosphere that encourages connection, whether you’re dining solo or sharing plates with new friends. The attentive staff is known for their accommodating and knowledgeable service, often guiding guests through the elegantly short but flavorful menu with attentiveness to dietary needs.

 – Each dish bursts with authentic flavors and innovative twists, like the beloved Bitter Melon stir-fry or the creamy radish dish in coconut cream. The menu rotates frequently, highlighting seasonal ingredients and chef’s choices that surprise and delight food enthusiasts.

Award-winning chef Tom Cunanan and highly acclaimed reputation from national publications.

A unique no reservations policy that adds an exciting challenge for diners seeking an authentic experience.

While Bad Saint promises a memorable meal, prospective diners should be aware of a few potential drawbacks that come with its unique charm.

 due to no reservations policy can test your patience.

Limited seating capacity and small dining space

 may feel cramped, especially if you are visiting with a larger group.

 compared to other local eateries may not suit all budgets.

 due to its rotating selection means favorites may not always be available.

To make the most of your Bad Saint experience, aim to arrive early—especially on less busy days—to avoid the longest waits. Sharing a larger table allows you to sample a variety of dishes without overwhelming your appetite. Whether you're a fan of bold, bitter flavors or prefer milder options, the staff will happily guide your choices and accommodate special dietary needs.

Reserve a spot on the website the moment reservations open, if available.

Try the chef’s daily specials to experience the freshest and most inventive creations.

Consider sharing dishes with friends to sample a wider variety without overspending.

 , Bad Saint is a must-visit for adventurous food lovers eager to explore elevated Filipino cuisine in an intimate setting. Although it requires some extra planning due to its reservation policy and limited space, the unique flavors, exceptional service, and cozy ambiance make the effort worthwhile.

District of Columbia

Discover the cozy Bad Saint in Washington, DC for innovative Filipino dishes and craft cocktails in an intimate setting. Book your table today!

Experience Authentic Filipino Cuisine at Bad Saint DC

Learn how to secure a reservation and enjoy your dining experience at Bad Saint in Washington, DC. Get insider tips and explore unique menu offerings.

Top Tips for Dining at Bad Saint Washington DC

Bad Saint was celebrated for its intimate setting and innovative Filipino cuisine, named No. 2 best new restaurant in America by Bon Appétit. Explore its legacy!

Experience Authentic Filipino Cuisine at Bad Saint, Washington, DC

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