Yalla

J Judy D 51 reviews · Local Guide 7 June 2025

Celebrated a friend's birthday here, and unfortunately we had to wait an hour to be seated due to having 8 ppl show up on the reservation instead of 6. However the food & DJ were great. We had a great time.

N Non applicable 18 reviews · Local Guide 18 May 2025

I was invited by a friend to visit Yalla Rooftop, and it was my first time there. I was pleasantly surprised from the moment I arrived—everything from the valet service to the professional security at the entrance was impressive. While the first floor was quiet, I took the elevator up to the rooftop and was immediately struck by the vibrant atmosphere. The music, ambiance, and exceptionally friendly staff made for a great experience. Prices were also very reasonable. Although I didn’t get a chance to try the food, I did see someone order the rack of lamb, and it looked excellent. Overall, I would highly recommend Yalla Rooftop.

S Shaghaf Abdallah Youssef 34 reviews · Local Guide 18 March 2025

I’ve been a regular at this place, but under the new management, I can’t shake the feeling of being othered—despite being well-known here, especially as a prominent Egyptian American bellydancer in DC and proudly trans. First, I wasn’t greeted upon arrival and had to seat myself. No big deal. I said hi to manager Sam, whom I know, but he acted like he didn’t recognize me—fine. The real issue came when, during an event, some guests invited me to dance with them . I hesitated at first but eventually joined in. Moments later, the manager pulled me aside to say it was a private party, accused me of inserting myself to the party, when I LITERALLY told him they invited and insisted me to dance, and he insisted I “stay in my lane,” despite being no complaints from the guests. To prove that even more, two or more people from the private party, came to ask me to join them, and I explained what happened, and they weren’t pleased, . Ironically, other patrons who arrived after me freely danced with the same group, with no intervention from management. That’s when I realized something felt off. I shared my frustration with few kind servers who listened and tried to make things right, which I appreciated. Still, the experience left a bad taste in my mouth. Hospitality—especially in an Arab space—should feel welcoming, and this didn’t. It’s a beautiful venue with great food and drinks, the servers and bartenders are lovely, but the service from Management could do better, and be more inclusive, especially in a diverse city like DC (This isn’t Virginia, habibi) . I still have hope for this place, but only if the hospitality improves—particularly for those of us who don’t fit the mold. It’s a fun place nevertheless.

L Lydia Williams 3 reviews 24 February 2025

The food is fantastic- so glad I saved room for dessert! (I dug in too quick for a photo) 😆 The vibes are immaculate and service is friendly. Definitely will be coming back for the belly dancer!!

K Keara 4 reviews 26 December 2024

Everything was so tasty! My friends and I went back twice during our visit to DC. Our server Daniel took good care of us. I can’t wait to visit DC again so I can eat here again. I loved the atmosphere and there is a belly dancer that comes in during the weekend.