FAQ

What kind of food do you serve? {Answer}

We feature modern interpretations of the traditional cuisine of Spain, served in small-plate style called “tapas.” Click here to read more about “tapas.”

Do you accept reservations? {Answer}

Yes, we accept reservations for lunch and dinner. See the module at the top of this page to reserve. However, we strongly encourage walk-ins even if our reservation books are full; in order to guarantee we can meet our reservation commitments, we do not release every available table online. If you are unable to book online, please call the restaurant and we will make every attempt to accommodate you.

For groups of 12 or more people, please contact our Event Managers by clicking here.

What are your hours? {Answer}

Jaleo DC and Jaleo Bethesda are open 7 days. Jaleo Crystal City is closed only on Mondays. We always open at 11:30 AM, but closing times vary by day and location. Click here for the full schedule.

What meals do you serve? {Answer}

Click here to see our menus and hours for brunch, lunch and dinner.

Where are you located? {Answer}

There are three Jaleo locations:

Downtown DC/Penn Quarter: click here for a map and contact information.

Bethesda, Maryland: click here for a map and contact information.

Crystal City, Arlington, Virginia: click here for a map and contact information.

What are the parking options? {Answer}

There are ample public lots near all three Jaleo locations, and lot parking is free in Crystal City after 4 PM weekdays and all day weekends (entrances are both immediately North and West of the restaurant). Metered street parking is also available for all three locations. Click here for maps.

Valet parking is also available for $11 at our sister restaurant, Café Atlántico, around the corner from Jaleo DC at 405 8th Street NW, on the corner of D ST NW.

Do you have a dress code? {Answer}

No, Jaleo does not have a dress code. Our guests tend to be comfortable dressing anywhere from casual to business casual.

Can I throw a private party? {Answer}

Yes, we would love to have you! Jaleo offers a wide variety of private spaces and menus. Click here for more information and to contact our Event Managers.

If you would like to serve the cuisine from Jaleo at your home or another location, we offer menus through our partner José Andrés Catering with Ridgewells. Click here for sample menus and more information.

Do you sell gift cards? {Answer}

Yes! You can buy gift cards valid at all ThinkFoodGroup restaurants, in a variety of denominations, by clicking here.

If you would like to purchase a Jaleo-only gift card, please contact any of the restaurants directly. Contact information is at the bottom of this page.

If you would like to check the balance of a gift card, click here.

I own a gift card. How do I check my balance? {Answer}

You can check your balance by clicking here.

Can I bring my own wine or birthday cake? {Answer}

You are welcome to bring your own wine to Jaleo DC for a corkage fee of $20 per bottle; Unfortunately, Maryland and Virginia laws prohibit the practice. You may also bring your own birthday cake for a $2.50 per person service charge. However, we are proud to offer an extensive Spanish wine list, as well as creative and delicious desserts.

Is Jaleo wheelchair accessible? {Answer}

Yes, all three restaurants are wheelchair accessible. However, the bar space at Jaleo DC is not.

What does Jaleo mean? {Answer}

“Jaleo” means “revelry” or “uproar” in Spanish. The John Singer Sargent painting “El Jaleo” served as inspiration for the concept, and has been reproduced in murals throughout the three restaurants.

For more information on the painting, click here.

Can you accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions? {Answer}

Yes, our standard menus offer a wide variety of options for vegetarians, vegans, those who do not eat pork or shellfish, as well as those with allergies of all kinds. Please inform your server of your needs and ask for advice. We are always happy to oblige special requests.

If your allergies are potentially life-threatening, please call the restaurant before your visit and ask for a chef or manager. He or she will work with you to make special arrangements if necessary.