Fried plantains, grilled fish & other West African delicacies in bright, narrow surrounds.
Brian
My wife and I stumbled across Tempoo from a flier we saw in instagram promoting a birthday party. Her and I decided to stop in to check it out before hand. Let me just say this, the bartender Hillary was hands down the best bartender and person we have encountered in the DMV area. She was so attentive and welcoming. (She was working the whole place by herself and she held it down) from bar to the floor she didn’t miss a beat. You can tell she runs the show there and everyone respects her. The way she interacts with the people was amazing and I just couldn’t believe how she managed. So if you are in the DMV area and looking for a nice chilled spot with great people; drinks, food and music. This is your place look no further.
The owner even came out and shook our hands and you could see he too has a strong relationship with his customers and that’s a wonderful things to see.
Now let’s get into the drinks, she made us a Don Julio margarita and a tropical Long Island and hands down the best drinks I’ve had in a long time.
Now let’s get into the food.
Hillary suggested the red snapper with Jollof, rice and plantains. When I tell you that fish didn’t stand a chance, one bite and I was like this isn’t making it home. lol
It was so pretty and cooked to perfection.
She also suggested the spicy gizzard and suya mix.
I’ve never had such, but we trusted her and glad we did! The flavor was immaculate.
We def we will back and SOON!
Thanks again Hillary for showing us love and treating us like you’ve known us for a lifetime. That welcoming personality is what will bring us back.
Thank you again.
… moreMindy Skelly
Coming from NY, good African food has been hard to find. The food here tastes much more authentic and delicious with the right amount of kick. The staff is very hospitable and the food didn’t take long. Overall, I had a pleasant experience dining in for a quick bite.
… moreKyriea
My favorite African cuisine in the DMV!! My sister put me on to this spot and i’ve never had anything else in years. The food is authentic and amazing quality. The owner, TJ is extremely kind and accommodating and manages the place so well. I haven’t been to the lounge late night but it seems lots of fun !
… moreDurShawn Robinson
Mouth-Watering FISH Meal!
After leaving an event with zero good food options, my husband and I found Tempoo Restaurant (open ‘til 3am!)—and wow, it was a blessing! That Whole Red Snapper dinner with plantains, rice, and veggies was absolutely amazing. The flavors were unreal, and the customer service from TJ and his team was top-tier. I travel for food, and this was hands down the best red snapper meal I’ve ever had. Don’t walk—RUN to get your good eats! You won’t be disappointed.
#TheChurchLady
… moreBennette Tella
Best restaurant/ night club in DMV. Warmest night vibe in town. Also the best D.j .I also enjoy Sundays nights live groove bands.
The owner of the establishment, comes around to check on us to make sure we are being taken care off.All the staffs are very respectful and helpful. I’ll give it 10 out of 10!!!
… moreTere Newton
Upon arrival, welcoming owner/staff. House beverages are creative and elegant. The aroma is impeccable. Definitely my favorite African cuisine place to dine and enjoy a quality meal. My family and I could not stop talking about this place from every aspect.
… moreKanae B
The atmosphere was lovely. It was a quick random move for a friend and I. We didn’t try the food unfortunately but we did try hookah. I would not recommend the hookah. 15 minutes after we left my body shut down, started aching & my throat became sore. The water in the hookah was dirty & dark. The hose had lots of spit & condensation in it already. That was the worst feeling and I’m still feeling it the next day. I was perfectly fine before that.
… moreDee Vaz
This was my first time visiting this establishment. There was plenty of parking spaces. The vibe was amazing, the staff was friendly and attentive. There was a live band and the atmosphere was super chill. Lastly, the food was absolutely delicious! It was seasoned to perfection. I will definitely visit this spot again.
… moreAbdelrahman
First time and surely not the last time I’ll be here, was an experience to try some African food cooked in the traditional way. The flavors were so vibrant really caught me by surprise. TJ the owner was so hospitable and kind to us. We enjoyed it very much! Thank you!
… moreJessi Barrow
I really recommend this restaurant if you are interested in experiencing west African food, especially if you are intimidated to try a cuisine that is new to you. The owner, TJ, was so welcoming to us and is more than happy to answer any questions about the menu. He asked us if we had tried west African food before and offered his help navigating the menu if we needed it. You can tell he puts a lot of thought and effort into his food and the service he provides. The flavor of everything was so good. The spices are complex and warm. We would definitely return if we’re in the area.
My personal food recommendations:
Plantains, Egusi with foo foo
The jollof rice was also really good. The flavor was so deep and unique to any I’ve ever tried.
The bartender also made us mocktails with ginger that he said was off menu
If you are looking for a classic dining experience and not the “lounge” environment simply come earlier in the day. We came in around 7:45pm and they were still doing regular table service with the bar open. I read from another review that the restaurant turns more into a club environment by 10pm.
… more