Explore Albert Ting’s Mount Pleasant, full of vibrant cuisine, street art and a strong sense of community pride.
Though Albert Ting has lived throughout DC for two decades, it's Mount Pleasant that finally feels like home. The neighborhood – rich with character, diversity and charm – provides endless inspiration for this professional foodie through its multicultural restaurant scene.
A J.D. program at American University initially brought Ting to DC, which he followed up with six years in international trade at the U.S. Department of Commerce; however, it was the city's food scene that made him stay. As social media took off in the 2010s, Ting discovered a creative way to merge his professional background with his passion for cuisine. Now a full-time digital media consultant, Ting helps Michelin-starred restaurants create compelling video and social content while building his own audience of thousands following his culinary adventures on Instagram. Beyond serving as his muse, DC represents a safe haven where Ting feels supported as a proud gay second-generation Chinese American.
Come June, you'll find him at Capital Pride. As an official ambassador, Ting sees this as a full-circle moment connecting back to his roots in international relations. For him, DC is about finding your chosen family in a place where you're free to be yourself. And also… hunting down the best and most authentic meals you can find.
Morning
Begin your leisurely morning with a trip to the Mount Pleasant Farmers Market (open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) to browse artisanal foods from local vendors. Don’t miss the Chinese Street Market tent, where the dumplings, noodle kits and Sichuan chili crunch are must-haves. For more, visit their sister establishment: the Dan Dan Boy stall at Union Market for bold Sichuan cuisine.
After dropping off his haul at home, Albert typically takes his dog Toto for a morning walk. They pass by Lost Origins, an intimate arts space in the neighborhood, currently hosting an outdoor exhibit called Vagabond, which features portraits and stories from 13 Vietnamese-American artists. Ting sees public art like this as a gift, offering Washingtonians spontaneous opportunities to connect with creativity.
Afternoon
Next, it’s off to Adams Morgan, an area known for its vibrant nightlife. However, 18 Street happens to be just as fun when the sun is up. Visit Hana Market to browse their diverse selection of Japanese pantry staples. For some lively sit-down fare, Tiki on 18th’s daily brunch serves up Pacific Island specialties like Spam and egg sandwiches, pork sisig and mochi ube waffles.
For something more upscale, try Perry’s. If you’re early enough, you might catch the final Japanese Breakfast seating, a prix fixe spread featuring grilled fish, pickled veggies and miso soup. Otherwise, their extensive happy hour offers deals on favorites like buttery garlic fried rice, a shrimp katsu burger and fresh maki rolls.
Evening
After your late afternoon culinary adventure, head to the National Mall for some museum hopping before closing time. The National Museum of Asian Art (open 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.) showcases over 46,000 artifacts spanning the Neolithic era to today, with stunning works from China, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia. Then, dive even deeper into the spirit, history and culture of the AAPI expat experience at the Chinese-American Museum back in Logan Circle. Housed in a 1907 Beaux Arts mansion, this collection is five stories of award-winning artifacts, stories and exhibits highlighting the Chinese immigrant legacy in America. It’s a can’t-miss destination.
End your day with a meal at Purple Patch, one of DC’s first and finest Filipino restaurants. A regional favorite since 2015, it’s known for classic dishes like chicken adobo and pancit, but if you happen to be hosting a party, opt for a traditional Kamayan feast. This communal smorgasbord of Filipino staples, served on banana leaves and eaten by hand, is an unforgettable experience.
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