Thank You, DMV: 2fifty Is Your Casual Restaurant of the Year
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
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
All wood, all good.
=
Announcing: Winners of D.C.‘s RAMMY chef and restaurant awards - Axios DC,
DC’s 2025 Restaurant Award Winners - City Cast DC,
Here Are the 2025 Rammy Awards Winners - Eater DC,
Rammys Celebrate ‘Talent, Resilience’ and Great Food - The Georgetowner,
And the RAMMY Winner Is… - The List Are You On It,
Three Maryland Restaurants Make List of “Where to Find Outstanding Barbecue Around D.C. - The MoCoShow,
RAMMYS honor DC area’s best new restaurant, top bar and more. See the full list of winners - NBC4 Washington*,
Which chef took home the top prize at this year’s RAMMYS? - WTOP News,
2Fifty – 100 Very Best Restaurants 2025 - Washingtonian.
