The Food: You’ll find all the hallmarks of a standard, guac-laden Tex-Mex menu–big platters holding burritos, chimichangas, fajitas and enchiladas–plus carne asada and pollo primavera (grilled chicken breast piled with zucchini, onions and tomatoes). On the seafood front, shrimp and scallops adorn most dishes.
The Scene: A yellow glow from wall sconces bounces off wood paneling and exposed bricks. Tile flooring, ceiling fans and knick-knacks (like a skeleton mariachi band and dusty tequila bottles) provide a feeling of dining in someone’s casa. A chiminea illuminates decorative crosses of different sizes and colors.
What’s Nearby: Just north of Dupont Circle between R and S streets on Connecticut Avenue, Alero is close to shopping, restaurants and bars, and the Phillips Collection and DC Improv. The Dupont Circle metro station (red line) is about 2 blocks away.
Insider Tips: While Alero’s other locations on U Street and in Cleveland Park offer outdoor patios, the Dupont Circle location does not.
