Kosher vegan diners in the DC area received disappointing news this fall. Shouk, the popular plant-based Middle Eastern concept, has officially shut its remaining locations in Rockville, Maryland and Washington, DC. According to local kosher oversight, DC Kosher, the closures are permanent.
Shouk had been one of the few vegan restaurants in the region operating under kosher supervision, known for falafel bowls, salads, and sandwiches. Its departure leaves a gap for diners who relied on certified plant-based options across the District and nearby suburbs.
Kosher Vegan Options Still Available in DC
Despite the closure, kosher diners looking for plant-based meals still have reliable choices.
- Pow Pow — An Asian-inspired vegan fast casual, certified kosher by DC Kosher. Pow Pow offers rice bowls, dumplings, and salads.
- HipCityVeg — This fast casual chain serves vegan burgers, sandwiches, salads, and shakes, and is certified kosher by the International Kosher Council.
These spots continue to carry the torch for kosher-certified vegan dining in the area.
Non-Vegan Kosher Options in the Greater DC Area
For those seeking broader menus, the DC and Maryland region maintains a solid mix of meat and dairy restaurants under supervision.
- Oro Nami — A new kosher sushi restaurant in Washington, DC, offering a full sushi program and Japanese-inspired dishes. Read more on YeahThatsKosher
- Char Bar — A staple in Washington, DC, offering burgers, steaks, and deli favorites.
- Oh Mama Grill — With locations in both DC and Rockville, this Mediterranean grill serves shawarma, falafel, and kebabs.
- Al Haesh — A kosher Israeli grill in Rockville with skewers, schnitzel, and salads.
- Ben Yehuda Café & Pizzeria — Located in Silver Spring, this dairy restaurant offers pizza, pasta, and baked goods.
- Sunflower Café — A Silver Spring favorite, serving dairy vegetarian cuisine.
- Holy Chow — A popular kosher Chinese takeout spot located in Silver Spring.
DC Notes
Shouk’s closure ends a notable chapter for kosher vegan dining in DC, but a mix of certified plant-based and traditional eateries remains. Diners should always confirm current supervision before visiting, since certifications can change. Always make sure you have our app – KosherNearMe – downloaded when traveling to find kosher restaurants near you.
