This new spot changes how we view northern hospitality with style.
The Vibe is Fresh and Distinctly Friendly
You might wonder what connects DC to Calgary and Vancouver beyond our shared Canadian embassy. The answer is the fresh energy now buzzing through the DC Golden Triangle, especially inside the Elle Apartments. With the official opening of Moxies’ flagship at 1111 20th Street NW, a wave of cozy Canadian hospitality—tailored perfectly for the neighborhood—has arrived.
Although Moxies’ roots are in the north, there’s no kitschy flannel décor or novelty Mountie-themed drinks here. Instead, the space is sleek, modern, and delightfully playful. Founded in Calgary in 1986 and now based in Vancouver, the brand has grown to more than 59 locations and 7,000 employees across North America.
It’s refreshing to find a venue where kindness is valued as highly as quality, creating a welcoming environment for everyone—from busy professionals to neighbors in search of a reliable local spot.
Scratch Kitchen Excellence
Leading the kitchen is Executive Chef Brandon Thordarson, whose personal mantra “if it isn’t right, it doesn’t leave the kitchen” drives a menu focused on fresh ingredients. While they avoid the heavy stereotypes, they do nod to their roots with delicious subtlety, featuring items like the Poutine and the Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts tossed with pancetta bacon and a miso maple glaze.
You can taste the commitment to quality in the diverse menu, which features standouts like the Chipotle Mango Chicken with a sweet and smoky dry rub, and the savory Red Thai Curry topped with shrimp. If you are looking for a serious handheld, the Steak Sandwich is a must-try, featuring 5.5oz of thin-sliced sirloin, arugula, and a zesty horseradish aioli!
A Bar Menu that Likes to Have Fun
The beverage program is where this restaurant truly shows its personality, offering a mix of sophisticated flavors and cheeky fun. You will find maple woven expertly into the cocktail list, such as in the Smoked Mezcal and Smoked Rye, both featuring WhistlePig smoked maple syrup for a complex, woodsy finish. For those looking for something more spirited, the menu includes the playfully named P*rn Star Martini, a vibrant mix of Grey Goose vodka, passion fruit, and vanilla served with a side of Prosecco. It is the perfect excuse to gather friends for a mid-week break or a lively social hour that feels far removed from the stiff competition nearby.
A DC Golden Triangle Destination Worth Visiting
While this spot is incredibly convenient for those working in the DC Golden Triangle, it is quickly becoming a destination for people making the trek from other parts of the region. The location is entirely Metro accessible and sits just minutes from iconic landmarks like the White House and Dupont Circle, making it an easy choice for a night out.
The clean, modern design matches the “clean eating” philosophy of the menu, offering a refreshing break from the hustle of the city. If you are looking for a place that balances high energy with genuine warmth, Moxies is the new standard for DC dining.
Moxies DC. 1111 20th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036. 202-807-9604. Average Main Course: $25 – $45.
