Espita Mezcaleria
6-Course Urban Oaxacan Dinner Event
Fans of Mexican food will be excited to discover Espita, a classic “mezcaleria” in the Shaw neighborhood that serves Oaxacan cuisine. This food of southern Mexico features the same staples used in all Mexican cuisine—corn, beans, and chile peppers—but the state’s geographical and cultural variety means there are many diverse influences at work. At Espita, Chef Benjamin Tenner offers traditional cuisine seen through the lens of the Mid-Atlantic, applying authentic flavors and techniques to the seasonal bounty of our region. Whether it’s tacos, tlayudas (a street snack often called the Mexican pizza), memorable moles, or a range of mezcals, you’ll experience intense taste sensations. Prepare to be stunned as well by the extraordinary murals by Yescka, a well-known Oaxacan street artist. “The scenery has the same effect as the food and drink,” says the Washington Post. “It wakes you up and stirs the senses.” We will be taking over the restaurant for this event, and Chef Tenner will spend some time with us, sharing his love for all things Oaxacan.
About the Host:
Ben Tenner
Chef de Cuisine
Chef Ben Tenner began his culinary career in New York restaurant groups as chef de cuisine of American Tandoor, Farmers, Fishers and Bakers, and Mama Rogue. Moving to DC in 2016, he was promoted to Executive Chef at Matchbox before joining Espita in 2018.
The Lineup
All savory courses will be served family-style. Dessert will be portioned individually.
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Aguachile de Hamachi
with coconut, macadamia, rhubarb, kohlrabi, and avocado
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Taco de Pescado
with crispy flounder, salsa tartara, avocado, and pickled kohlrabi
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Ensalada Verde
with baby gem lettuce, avocado, queso fresco, savory nuts and seeds, and garlic and jalapeño ‘césar’ dressing
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Coliflor
roasted cauliflower with chipotle cauliflower puree, delicata squash, and smoked hazelnut and arbol salsa
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Mole Manchamanteles con Pollo
chicken with red mole sauce two ways
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Charred Coconut Husk Churros
with passionfruit caramel
Espita Mezcaleria
1250 9th St NW
Washington, DC, DC 20001
Event FAQs
- Do I have to bring printed tickets to the event?
- No tickets are needed.
- What must I bring to the event?
- Please make sure to bring a government-issued photo ID.
- Do guests need to be of a certain age to attend this event?
- Yes. All attendees must be 21+ to gain entry.
- What is the event ticket cancellation/refund policy?
- Restaurants purchase the food for our events 14 days before the event date, at which point we are on the hook for the cost of your ticket. As such, we are not able to offer refunds (or credits towards future events) for any cancellation requests submitted within 14 days of the event date. We will, however, issue full refunds for all cancellation requests submitted at least 14 days before the event date. All cancellation requests must be submitted via email to support@tastingcollective.com.
- What does the ticket price cover?
- The ticket price covers the full cost of the meal.
- Can I bring guests/non-members to this event?
- Yep! For this event, guest tickets are $75 + tax & tip, and you can bring up to 3 guests. Please note, guests are not allowed to attend unaccompanied by a member.
- What dietary restrictions/food allergies can be accommodated at this event?
- At this event the chef will provide substitutions for critical food allergies/dietary restrictions but will not make menu adjustments based on food preferences (e.g distaste for specific ingredients/flavor profiles). If you have restrictions/allergies, please make sure to Update Your Dietary Restrictions within your Account Info before or after you purchase tickets, or email us at support@tastingcollective.com after you purchase tickets to let us know.
