Thank You, DMV: 2fifty Is Your Casual Restaurant of the Year

August 7, 2025

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The Smokehouse

On August 4, the RAMMYS crowned 2fifty Texas BBQ “Casual Restaurant of the Year.” For a crew that started under a pop-up tent in Riverdale Park, this trophy is proof that patient smoke and community support can outshine the brightest marquees. Every early-bird in line, every neighbor who pointed a friend our way: you share this win with us.

What the Press Is Saying

“Wood-smoked Texas BBQ with ‘a pinch of the tropics.’” — Axios DC

“2fifty Texas BBQ … won Casual Restaurant of the Year.” — WTOP News

“The teams behind 2fifty BBQ … took pride in their immigrant roots on stage.” — Washingtonian

“Casual Restaurant of the Year: 2fifty Texas BBQ.” — City Cast DC

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Year Mile-marker

2016 → Saturday farmers-market pop-up in Riverdale Park.

2018 → First brick-and-mortar opens—470 feet from that market stall.

2024 → Second pit fires up on K Street NW.

2025 → Walk across the RAMMYS stage with “Casual Restaurant of the Year.”

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Behind the Smoke

“You don’t need much if you’ve got good meat, good fire, and time. Salt, pepper, oak, and patience—that’s our recipe.” — Fernando González

Fourteen hours at 225 degrees, no gas assist, no shortcuts. The bark crackles when it is ready, and the pit crew’s hands know the feel before any thermometer can tell. These are the quiet details judges tasted—and the ones regulars line up for every weekend.

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Roots That Run Deep

“I come from three generations of women who ran kitchens. Hospitality is how you show people they matter.” — Debby Portillo

This year’s RAMMYS spotlighted immigrant stories fueling DC dining, and our team stood shoulder to shoulder with chefs from Laos, Peru, and Nepal. The award affirms that Salvadoran grit and Texas technique belong at the same table—and that our neighborhoods make space for both.

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What Happens Next

For now, we are keeping the spotlight on the win and the work already smoking in our pits. Expect the same brisket, ribs, and sides that earned the RAMMY—cooked slow, served warm, meant to share.

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Stay Close to the Fire
From master classes abroad to new flavors at home, our journey’s always evolving — and we love bringing you along. Follow us on Instagram @2FiftyBBQ for behind-the-scenes moments, pitroom stories, and the people behind the fire.