Upcoming events near you
See More Events
InKind
Explore, Dine & Earn using InKind for LYDIA ON H and claim your $25 Off your next $75+ meal.
Our Story
Malawian chef and mixologist Victor Chizinga brings his heritage to H Street NE in a two-level venue featuring three distinct experiences and a members-only speakeasy serving Black-owned spirits. Lydia on H honors his late mother with dishes like curry chicken and cabbage. Caribbean influences shine in rum punch riffs, jerk wings, salmon fritters, and oxtail with jollof rice. Upstairs, Raine hosts live music, while Lake Malawi offers patio vibes with games and tunes.
Book a Reservation
Although walk-ins are welcome, we highly recommend making a reservation to avoid long wait times. Reservations are available 30 days in advance You have a grace period of 15 minutes to arrive for your reservation. After that time frame, we will do our best to seat you as soon as possible but there is no guarantee a table will become available.
Let Us Serve You
We are excited to announce that we are now offering catering services! This means that guests can enjoy our delicious, crowd-pleasing meals at events, meetings, or special occasions, all delivered with ease. We are ready to bring flavorful dishes directly to you, making your event unforgettable. Ordering is simple and convenient, so you can focus on what truly matters — enjoying great food with great company!
Order From Our Website
Skip the wait and get your favorites straight from our kitchen to your door. Place your order online and enjoy the Lydia on H experience wherever you are.
Check This Week’s Featured Event
Don't miss out and discover what’s happening at Lydia’s. From live music to themed dinners — there’s always something exciting waiting for you.
LYDIA ON H Rewards
Join our rewards program, earn points every time you order online and redeem your points for free food!
Malawian Bites & Sips: Flavor That Pops!
The gallery features a vibrant selection of Malawian cuisine & dining experiences, including refreshing drinks, savory jerk chicken served with flavorful jollof rice, crispy flatbread, perfectly cooked snapper, and a hearty short rib dish highlighted as a winter special.
Follow us on Instagram
Don’t just visit—get involved! LYDIA ON H hosts a vibrant lineup of events designed to connect, inspire, and celebrate our creative community. From pop-ups and panels to art nights and live music, there’s always something exciting happening. Stay in the loop by following us on Instagram, where we share event highlights, behind-the-scenes moments, and stories from our community. Come be part of the energy!
One of DC’s Best—See Why Everyone’s Talking
"With a fantastic rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 100s of reviews, Lydia on H was named one of the best lounges in Washington DC!"
What our guests are saying
The food was absolutely amazing, I had the Oxtails with Cabbage and Jollof rice and Mac and Cheese. The oxtails were slow cooked to perfection and the Cabbage was well seasoned.
Benita A.
This place is amazing. Food? Amazing. Service? Amazing. The vibe upstairs? Amazing! The jerk chicken and fries are so good, I would get it again. I also got the rice. The cheesesteak egg rolls are good too.
Human F.
Chef Victor and the entire Lydia on H staff are amazing! I planned a staff outing for about 25 people and the staff at Lydia on H. was accommodating to all of our needs. The bartender kept the drinks flowing.
Brandan P.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are you known for?
We are known for Waffles, Fish Tacos, Brussels Sprouts, Jollof Rice, Chicken and Waffles, Brunch, Tacos, Suya, Chicken & Waffles, Vegetarian Food, Mac and Cheese, French Toast, Flatbread, Jerk Chicken, Nachos, African Fusion, Soul Food, Fries, Jollof, Fried Shrimp, Quesadillas, Burgers, Wings, Caribbean Food, Salads, Shrimp, and Bar Food
Where are you located?
We are located in Washington, DC at 1427 H St NE
What areas do you serve?
We serve the following areas: Washington, DC, Brentwood, Trinidad, Near Northeast/Atlas District, Mount Rainier, Colmar Manor, Carver / Langston, Park View, Fort Davis, Fort Dupont, North Woodridge, Marshall Heights, Cottage City, Deanwood Park, Kingman Park, North Kenilworth, Boulevard Heights, Dillon Park, North Brentwood, Chapel Oaks.
Our location
Disclaimer
*Late Night Bites May Be Available After Hours. Give Us A Call!
* Service Fee Notice: a 20% service charge is added to all checks over $50.
*Allergen Notice: Menu items may contain or come into contact with wheat, milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish and soy.
