Mexican-Themed Mi Vida Opens Tonight at the Wharf

Roberto Santibañez, the Mexican-born chef/founder of the Fonda family of restaurants in New York City, officially joins the Wharf’s bustling dining scene on Friday, February 23, with the debut of two-story, gourmet eatery Mi Vida.

The latest restaurant collaboration from D.C.-based Knead Hospitality + Design (Succotash) gives Santibañez the chance to introduce himself to the area with dishes including: corn cakes topped with caviar; assorted tacos (braised pork, grilled steak, and marinated chicken are featured fillings); mole-soaked enchiladas; catch of the day offerings flanked by black beans, tomatillo salsa, and tortillas; citrus-spiked tres leches cake; and fried churros with chocolate dipping sauce.

The multi-level space includes patio seating on the ground floor (when seasonally appropriate), tables throughout, private dining rooms, as well as spots along the covered balcony facing District Pier. There’s also a 19 foot sculpture shaped like a tree that’s been decorated with color changing flowers.

Mi Vida is projected to operate from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m, Monday through Thursday, from 4 p.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday, and from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday. It will open at 5 p.m. on opening weekend — Friday, February 23 through Sunday, February 25 —then switch to the regular schedule on Monday, February 26. Weekday lunch and weekend brunch service are scheduled to follow.

Scroll down to take a look at what awaits inside.

Status: Scheduled to open at 5 p.m. 98 District Square SW; website.

• The Wharf: A Guide to all the Restaurants, Bars, and Clubs [EDC]
• Chef Roberto Santibañez to Open Mexican Restaurant at the Wharf [EDC]

Rey Lopez/Eater DC

Rey Lopez/Eater DC

Rey Lopez/Eater DC

Rey Lopez/Eater DC

Rey Lopez/Eater DC