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Makan is praised for its authentic Malaysian cuisine, generous portions, and cozy ambiance. While some reviews mention service inconsistencies and higher prices, the overall sentiment is favorable.

Discover Makan: A Malaysian Culinary Gem in Washington DC

Tucked away at 3400 11th Street Northwest, Washington DC, Makan offers an immersive dive into authentic Malaysian cuisine that captivates food lovers and adventurous diners alike. This charming restaurant embraces a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere, perfect for everything from casual brunches to intimate dinners. Whether you're craving the aromatic spices of Penang street noodles or the rich flavors of a hearty vegetable curry, Makan invites you to indulge in a culinary journey that is both comforting and exciting.

From the moment you step inside Makan, you're welcomed by warm lighting and a distinctive ceiling centerpiece crafted from woven bamboo baskets that radiate an amber glow, creating an intimate and inviting ambiance. The large floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the space in natural light during the day, and on pleasant evenings, the restaurant opens up to a refreshing natural breeze. Guests rave about the attentive and friendly staff who make every visit feel like joining family. The service, paired with the fresh, delicious food, elevates your dining experience to something truly special.

The menu at Makan features a curated selection of Malaysian rice and noodle dishes that highlight the rich, bold flavors of Southeast Asia. Key highlights include the perfectly crispy fried potatoes served with a spicy crumble and sour mustard greens, paired beautifully with cool cucumber raita. Vegetarians will appreciate the vibrant veg curry and lentil curry options, both bursting with flavor and offering options to adjust the spice level with their signature sambal. Don’t miss the chicken skewers with peanut sauce and refreshing mango salad – staples that keep guests coming back.

Yes, Makan provides a variety of vegetarian dishes on their menu.

Yes, Makan offers comfortable outdoor seating for diners.

Yes, gluten-free items are marked on the menu, and the staff is knowledgeable about cross-contamination risks.

Makan stands out as a beloved neighborhood treasure in Columbia Heights, praised for its authentic taste, generous portions, and cozy vibe that suits families and friends alike. Whether you're a local or just visiting Washington DC, this spot promises an unforgettable Malaysian dining experience enhanced by an inviting atmosphere, attentive service, and a menu that respects dietary preferences. Alongside serving lunch, dinner, brunch, and dessert, Makan also offers cocktails, beer, and wine to complement your meal, ensuring a well-rounded outing.

Overall, Makan enjoys a positive reputation for its flavorful dishes and warm ambiance, though some guests note occasional service inconsistencies and premium pricing. Despite this, the welcoming environment and high-quality food keep patrons coming back for more.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant Columbia Heights neighborhood of Washington, D.C., Makan is a culinary gem that invites you to explore the rich flavors of Malaysian cuisine. With its warm ambiance, characterized by natural light streaming through expansive windows and a stunning centerpiece of woven baskets, Makan offers a dining experience that is both intimate and lively. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely brunch or a cozy dinner, the atmosphere is perfect for savoring every bite.

Makan’s menu is a delightful exploration of Malaysian flavors, featuring standout dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Two must-try items include the crispy fried potatoes and the aromatic veg curry. The fried potatoes are a revelation, boasting a crunchy exterior and a fluffy interior, perfectly complemented by a spicy crumble and tangy mustard greens. Dip them in the cool cucumber raita for an added layer of flavor.

The veg curry, on the other hand, is a vibrant medley of spices and textures, served with soft, jammy eggs and net crepes that soak up the rich sauce beautifully. For those seeking a heartier option, the lentil curry is equally impressive, featuring a perfectly poached egg that adds richness to every bite.

Conveniently located at 3400 11th St NW, Makan is surrounded by a plethora of attractions that make it a perfect stop during your D.C. adventures. Just a short walk away, you can explore the vibrant local shops and art galleries that define the Columbia Heights neighborhood. For those looking to delve deeper into the culture, the nearby Meridian Hill Park offers a serene escape with its beautiful landscapes and historic monuments.

Outdoor seating available, perfect for enjoying a meal in the fresh air.

A rotating menu that keeps the dining experience fresh and exciting.

Friendly and knowledgeable staff ready to enhance your dining experience.

What is Makan known for? Makan is celebrated for its authentic Malaysian dishes, particularly its fried potatoes and various curries.

Why visit? With its unique ambiance and flavorful dishes, Makan offers a dining experience that is both memorable and satisfying.

What's nearby? Makan is close to local shops, art galleries, and the serene Meridian Hill Park, making it a perfect stop during your exploration of the area.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Makan is a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic Malaysian cuisine. With its inviting atmosphere, delicious dishes, and friendly service, you’ll want to return time and again. Don’t miss out on this culinary experience—come and savor the flavors of Malaysia at Makan!

Cool Malaysian restaurant serving rice & noodle dishes, plus unique cocktails & outdoor seating.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfX2NiLVFnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJgaDCgDXJt4kRnAEel9P894w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfX2NiLVFnEAE

Wow...what a gem?! I love this tucked away quaint location. I almost walked right past it, but so glad I did not. The food  and drinks were delicious (including dessert). Also very fresh.  The service was impeccable. Felt like family. I enjoyed the music and lighting, great set up for a good meal and a great conversation. Can't wait to visit again.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNBMHFUQjFRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJgaDCgDXJt4kRnAEel9P894w/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNBMHFUQjFRRRAB

We came here for the first time last night and were very impressed. Our server Peter was very attentive and helpful with making recommendations and explaining the dishes. He definitely took good care of us. Besides the outstanding service, the food was delicious. The roti are a must try as well as the mango salad and chicken skewers with peanut sauce. We had a lovely dinner and will definitely be back.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2cnBEYlBREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJgaDCgDXJt4kRnAEel9P894w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2cnBEYlBREAE

The food was delicious. We had a number of things - mango salad, the potatoes, the dry beef curry, the pickled pineapple and roti and the Penang street noodles. Overall, everything we had was delicious and tasty. The highlight for me however was the service. Our waiter was Peter. He is hands down one of the best waiters I’ve ever had in my life. He was so attentive and considerate. He always seemed to anticipate our needs and took care of them expeditiously. Then we found out it was only his second day working- wow! So incredible for only being his second day. So overall, atmosphere was good, food was good and service by Peter was FANTASTIC!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYbVBIeXdnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJgaDCgDXJt4kRnAEel9P894w/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYbVBIeXdnRRAB

I truly wanted to like this place. I went in with fairly high expectations and ended leaving disappointed. I ordered the chicken satay, which was decent. My main entree was the nasi ganja and it was quite unpleasant. Let me preface this by saying that I grew up eating various Southeast Asian cuisines, so this flavor combination and ingredients aren’t exactly a huge leap outside my comfort zone.

The salted duck egg was extremely overpowering and had a soapy aftertaste. I couldn’t take another bite of it and had to wash it down with water to avoid spitting it out. The coconut chutney was so bitter and the slimy okra didn’t add anything to the dish. This dish was a giant train wreck of flavors and not worth $25.00.

Maybe it was my fault for ordering the nasi ganja and perhaps I would’ve fared better with their other entrees. Lesson learned.

The service was borderline neglectful. The table next to me was charged the wrong bill which belonged to a different table entirely, so make sure you check your final tab. They also include a note on the menu saying they automatically tack on 10% service charge and that it’s not considered the final tip.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmMWMyNzNRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJgaDCgDXJt4kRnAEel9P894w/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmMWMyNzNRRRAB

Wonderful spot for Malaysian food with incredible options for both brunch and dinner! I've visited this delightful Columbia Heights gem several times over the last year, and I've been wowed each and every time. The space is super vibey; in the daytime, it's flooded with natural light from their giant, floor-to-ceiling windows. When the weather is nice, sometimes they'll even open the left side of their restaurant up to enjoy the natural breeze. They have a gorgeous ceiling centerpiece made of woven wicker or bamboo baskets, which glow a lovely amber from the lights and contrast perfectly with the dark red walls. At night, that centerpiece becomes the primary source of light in the restaurant as the lights dim to a lovely ambient level, creating an intimate, cozy environment.

The servers are all super friendly and are willing to answer any and all questions. Many of Makan's items can be adjusted to accommodate different dietary restrictions, so don't hesitate to ask.

I won't bore you with the full list of things I've tried from Makan's menu, especially since they usually like to keep the menu pretty short and will rotate dishes out every few months. However, every single item we got there was delicious, and a few standouts included:

(1) Fried potatoes -- it's hard to mess up the humble potato, but it's also hard to make it SO good. Makan's potatoes are delightfully soft and fluffy on the inside, but have a nice crunchy outer shell. They leave the skin on to become super crispy and soak up all the flavor from the spicy crumble and sour mustard greens. The already near-perfect potatoes are made even better when dipped into the cool cucumber raita.

(2) Veg curry -- such a delightful curry. This vegetarian dish is packed with a little bit of spice and a lot of flavor, and it goes wonderfully with the net crepes and soft, jammy 7-minute egg. It's a decently large portion, so you can easily split it between two people, especially if you've already split a starter or two. And, if it still doesn't have enough spice for you, they also have a side of spicy sambal to amp up the heat and flavor even further.

(3) Lentil curry -- yet another flavor-packed vegetarian dish that's also available for brunch. This lentil curry has a slight kick of spice, but is generally super flavorful and a delightful meal to start your day with. It comes with a perfectly poached egg, and I love the way the yolk runs with the rest of the curry to add a bit more richness and flavor. It's served with a fried roti; this buttery and flaky flatbread is the perfect tool to soak up the last bits of curry.

Enjoy Authentic Malaysian Cuisine at Makan, DC

Makan is a Malaysian restaurant located at 3400 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20010. It has been recognized with a Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction for its quality and value.

Authentic Malaysian cuisine featuring a variety of traditional dishes and desserts.

Char Kway Teow

Nasi Lemak

Beef Rendang

Chicken Satay

Fried Potatoes

Pork Gyoza

Roti Kaya

Sago

Makan Menu

Makan menu overview in washington dc northwest district of columbia united states authentic malaysian cuisine delicious starters mains desserts and drinks at makan restaurant dc cool malaysian restaurant serving rice noodle dishes plus unique cocktails outdoor seating vibrant dining experience foodies digital nomads trend-conscious travelers must try dishes fresh flavorful food fresh ingredients culinary delights local favorite welcoming atmosphere impeccable service highly recommended dining spot for malaysian food lovers in washington dc northwest area usa usa district of columbia washington such as char kway teow nasi lemak beef rendang chicken satay roti kaya and sago dessert vegetarian options available diverse selection tasty dishes perfect for brunch lunch dinner and dessert explore makan menu delicious food and drinks enjoy outdoor seating and unique cocktails fresh vibrant flavors food adventure awaits at makan washington dc northwest district of columbia usa 

Nestled in the heart of Northwest Washington, Makan offers an enticing dive into authentic Malaysian cuisine that promises to delight your palate with every bite. This vibrant eatery is known for its fresh, flavorful dishes crafted from high-quality ingredients, complemented by an inviting atmosphere and impeccable service that makes every visit memorable.

Begin your Malaysian culinary adventure with Makan’s standout starters. The Chicken Satay features tender chicken skewers served with a rich peanut sauce, accompanied by fresh cucumber and shallots for a perfect balance of flavors. For a crunchy and comforting option, the Fried Potatoes are a must-try — these are crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, enhanced by a spicy crumble, tangy sour mustard greens, and a cooling cucumber raita yogurt dip. Pork Gyoza offers a delightful blend of minced pork, chili, and green onion, delivering a savory and mildly spicy appetizer that sets the tone for the meal.

Dive into Makan’s expertly crafted mains, each showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Malaysia. The Char Kway Teow features stir-fried flat rice noodles mingling with succulent shrimp, Chinese sausage, and crunchy bean sprouts, offering a smoky and savory flavor profile. Nasi Lemak presents fragrant coconut rice paired with spicy sambal, crispy anchovies, and crunchy peanuts, creating a classic and hearty dish. For those seeking robust spices, the Beef Rendang delivers tender beef slow-cooked with a blend of herbs and spices, resulting in a deeply aromatic and satisfying meal.

End your dining experience on a sweet note with Makan’s traditional Malaysian desserts. Roti Kaya is a buttery flatbread paired with luscious coconut cream, delivering a comforting and indulgent finish. Alternatively, the Sago dessert features delicate tapioca pearls in a creamy coconut sauce, offering a smooth and satisfying treat that perfectly balances sweetness and texture.

Complement your meal with Makan’s unique selection of cocktails, beers, and wines thoughtfully curated to enhance the flavors of the Malaysian dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a brunch, lunch, or dinner, the outdoor seating area provides a relaxed setting to savor your drinks and soak in the atmosphere. Specials rotate seasonally, ensuring fresh and exciting options that keep the menu dynamic and inventive.

 – Every dish is prepared with quality, fresh ingredients ensuring vibrant flavors and authenticity.

 – Attentive and friendly staff create a warm and welcoming dining experience.

 – Stylish decor with natural light and ambient lighting creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere.

 – Enjoy fresh air and a relaxed vibe with Makan’s inviting outdoor dining options.

Savor authentic flavors at Makan in Northwest Washington, DC. Experience vibrant dishes and a welcoming ambiance. Book your table today!

Makan Restaurant in NW Washington, DC - Flavorful Dining

Washington Municipality

Makan

Enjoy dining in a comfortable outdoor setting.

Outdoor Seating

A variety of vegetarian dishes available.

Vegetarian Options

Gluten-Free Options

Makan Indonesian-Malaysian Kitchen in Washington DC: A Flavorful Escape on 11th Street NW 

Nestled in the vibrant Northwest Washington neighborhood, Makan offers an authentic Malaysian dining experience that delights both locals and visitors alike. This charming restaurant at 3400 11th St NW is a hidden gem renowned for its thoughtfully crafted menu, warm atmosphere, and impeccable service. Whether you're craving aromatic rice dishes, savory noodle plates, or refreshing cocktails, Makan caters to adventurous foodies and families seeking a memorable meal in a cozy setting.

A Vibrant Dining Atmosphere with Outdoor Seating

Step inside Makan and be greeted by a space flooded with natural light pouring through floor-to-ceiling windows, creating an inviting and airy vibe. The striking ceiling centerpiece crafted from woven baskets bathes the room in a warm amber glow, perfectly complemented by deep red walls. When the weather allows, guests can dine outside in the comfortable outdoor seating area, enjoying fresh air alongside their flavorful meal. This combination of design and ambience makes Makan a distinctive spot for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings.

Delicious Malaysian Dishes with Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options

Makan's menu is a celebration of Malaysian flavors, featuring signature rice and noodle dishes that highlight fresh ingredients and bold spices. The restaurant thoughtfully includes a variety of vegetarian selections, such as their much-loved veg curry and lentil curry, both bursting with flavor and perfect for sharing. For guests with gluten sensitivities, gluten-free items are clearly marked to ensure a worry-free dining experience. Notable dishes include perfectly crispy fried potatoes with spicy crumble and sour mustard greens, rich dry beef curry, and the ever-popular Penang street noodles. Each plate is crafted to offer a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Exceptional Service and Family-Friendly Environment

Beyond the food, Makan shines through its attentive and friendly service, with staff eager to provide recommendations and accommodate dietary preferences. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a great choice for families, with a kid-friendly environment and a menu adaptable to various tastes. Whether you're sitting inside or enjoying the outdoors, the vibe encourages relaxed dining and great conversation.

 to savor meals in a refreshing open-air environment.

 that offer flavorful and satisfying meat-free dishes.

 clearly marked for those with dietary restrictions seeking safe and delicious meals.

District of Columbia

Discover Makan, a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant in DC, offering delicious Malaysian dishes in a cozy ambiance. Join us for a taste experience!

Makan: Authentic Malaysian Cuisine in Washington, DC

Dive into a culinary adventure at Makan, featuring amazing Malaysian dishes and a fantastic dining atmosphere. Make a reservation today!

Explore Makan: Best Malaysian Dishes in DC

Plan your visit to Makan with tips on the must-try dishes, dining options, and hidden gems. Experience the vibrant taste of Malaysia!

Enjoy Authentic Malaysian Cuisine at Makan, DC

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