Kayu Brings Filipino Flavors to Dupont Circle

The modern Filipino restaurant has reopened with a more casual vibe and an expanded menu.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 9:34pm

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Kayu, chef Paolo Dungca's modern Filipino restaurant, has relocated from its original H Street location to a new, more casual space in Dupont Circle. The 40-seat dining room features a full bar with Filipino-inspired cocktails like a pandan Old Fashioned and an "Adult Jolly Meal" special. The menu includes a mix of a la carte Filipino dishes, a three-course dining deal, and a tasting menu option, showcasing Dungca's blend of hearty Southern fare and rich Filipino flavors.

Why it matters

Kayu's move to Dupont Circle brings its unique take on Filipino cuisine to a new neighborhood, expanding access to its popular dishes like the crispy fried chicken bao bun and the rich crab fat-topped cassava cake. The restaurant's blend of casual and upscale elements also reflects the evolving dining landscape in Washington, D.C., where diners are seeking both comfort food and elevated tasting experiences.

The details

The new Kayu location features a bright, 40-seat dining room with a full bar serving Filipino-inspired cocktails. The menu includes a la carte Filipino dishes ($11-$55), a three-course dining deal ($65), and a tasting menu option ($125). Standout dishes include the crispy fried chicken bao bun, the pork chop with black-eyed peas and greens, and the rich crab fat-topped scallop dish.

  • Kayu originally opened on H Street last summer.
  • Kayu relocated to its new Dupont Circle location on August 6, 2026.

The players

Paolo Dungca

The chef and owner of Kayu, who has blended hearty Southern fare with rich Filipino flavors.

Julie Cortes

The Kayu chef who has been recognized for her savory bao buns and black truffle cream-filled ensaymada, winning a 2026 Rising Stars Award from StarChefs.

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What’s next

Kayu plans to open a patio at the new Dupont Circle location in the near future.

The takeaway

Kayu's move to Dupont Circle brings its unique blend of Filipino and Southern flavors to a new neighborhood, offering both casual comfort food and elevated tasting experiences to diners in the nation's capital.