Instantly Iconic: Selva Brings Lush Latin-Mediterranean Fusion to Dupont Circle
Dupont Circle just got a jolt of fresh flavor with the opening of Selva (1223 Connecticut Ave., Second Floor), the latest project from nightlife impresario Antonis Karagounis and chef Giovanni Orellana. Equal parts restaurant and vibe, Selva celebrates Orellana’s El Salvadoran roots and broader Latin American flavors, blending them with Karagounis’s signature flair for creating places people want to gather.
The menu is designed for sharing, and it’s a smart move — this is food that deserves to be passed around the table. Bright, citrusy Ceviche del Pescado sets the tone, while golden-fried Yucca Brava lands with just the right crunch. Grilled Sardines, a nod to Karagounis’s Mediterranean heritage and a curiously cool menu item, bring smoke and depth; And the Beef Empanadas, stuffed with peppers and olives, as well as the Pastelitos de Cangrejo, are both bite-sized hits.
When it comes to mains, Orellana riffs on classics in ways that feel both familiar and new. Arroz Chaufa, a Peruvian-Chinese fried rice, comes loaded with wok-seared flavor; While Pollo Loco, Selva’s playful take on Latin America’s beloved chicken dish, arrives juicy, spiced, and impossible not to share. The best though: the Wagyu Churrasco; trust us.
Even the sides get star treatment, from herb-laced Cilantro Rice to perfectly caramelized Sweet Fried Plantains.
Cocktails lean tropical and transportive, thanks to industry veteran Dennis Garcia. The Caribe Spritz layers coconut rum and prosecco over fresh coconut juice for an instant escape from DC’s sticky summers, while the Isla Roja (vodka, fresh watermelon, lime, basil, and raspberry) feels tailor-made for Dupont’s social media feeds.
The atmosphere pulls it all together: lush greenery, bold design, and just enough nightlife edge to remind you of Karagounis’s pedigree, without overwhelming the dining experience. It’s the kind of spot where a casual dinner can effortlessly stretch into a lingering night out.
With Selva, Dupont Circle gets a new place to taste global flavors, linger, and repeat. For DC diners always chasing what’s new, this one feels worth staking a claim.