RAMW Blog

Washington, D.C.’s restaurant scene is the beating heart of our city. It fuels the local economy, builds community and gives our neighborhoods their unique character. But that heart is under serious strain —and we’re dangerously close to flatlining.

Our latest industry survey found that 44% of full-service casual restaurants in D.C. expect to close by the end of 2025. That’s not just a statistic — it’s a flashing red warning sign.

Restaurants are particularly vulnerable to robbery, burglary, and theft—especially those with late-night hours, easy access points, and high cash volume. Whether you’re a restaurant owner or employee, preparation is key to staying calm and responding effectively if a crime occurs.

Over the past week, several restaurants in DC were visited by federal agents. These visits were not raids, and, to my knowledge, no employees were detained or arrested inside of a restaurant. Rather, they were formal Notice of Inspection (NOI) visits, part of a nationwide relaunch of federal worksite enforcement efforts.

The Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) proudly supports Mayor Muriel Bowser, the District of Columbia government, and the Washington Commanders in their collaborative effort to redevelop the historic RFK Stadium site. This transformative project represents a significant opportunity for the restaurant and hospitality industry in Washington, D.C.

On behalf of the restaurant industry in the District of Columbia, I am writing to ask you to move quickly and pass S.1077, District of Columbia Local Funds Act, to enable the District’s government to spend already approved local funds to ensure a safe, clean, and functioning business environment for operators across the city.

As the weather warms up, outdoor dining becomes a great way to attract more guests and boost business, and it also brings unique risks that are important to keep in mind.

Here are a few tips to help your outdoor service run smoothly and safely:

The Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) proudly celebrates the outstanding achievements of Washington, D.C.'s culinary professionals who have been named finalists for the 2025 James Beard Foundation Awards

During the 2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival Cherry Picks dining program—a collaboration between the
Festival, Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington, and our city's finest eateries – we're featuring more restaurants, more menus, and more incredible food! From March 20 to April 13, over 50 participating restaurants are showcasing springtime menus featuring creative dishes and cherry blossom-inspired cocktails that’ll have you celebrating the season with every bite.

The James Beard Foundation® has unveiled the semifinalists for its 2025 Restaurant and Chef Awards, presented by Capital One. Widely regarded as one of the nation’s most prestigious accolades, the James Beard Awards® celebrate outstanding achievements in the culinary and food media industries, while also promoting a culture where everyone can thrive.