The Smithsonian's National Zoo offers a wide variety of dining options located throughout the park. Kid-friendly, vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free options are often available, and as a commitment to conservation, the Zoo serves only Bird Friendly Coffee—the only 100% organic and shade-grown coffee certification available.
Group meals can be pre-ordered for 10 or more guests.
Mane Grill
(near Tiger/Lion Hill)
Angus burgers, chemical- and hormone-free grilled chicken, kids' meals and to-go items.
10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fall/Winter
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Spring/Summer
Heirloom Grille
(Outside Mane Grill, Lion & Tiger Hill)
Angus burgers, grilled salmon, bratwurst, salads.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April–Aug.
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends only, Sept.–Oct.
Closed: Nov.–March
Seal Rock Cafe
(American Trail)
Hot-pressed panini sandwiches, salads, all-natural hot dogs, Dippin' Dots Ice Cream.
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April–Aug.
11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays and weekends, Sept.–Oct.
Closed: Nov.–March
Panda Overlook Cafe
(overlooking Giant Panda Habitat)
Hot-pressed panini sandwiches, made-to-order salads, all-natural hot dogs, funnel cakes, espresso drinks.
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April–Aug.
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays and weekends, Sept.–Oct.
Closed: Nov.–March
Panda Grill
(across from entrance to Asia Trail)
Pizza, po' boy sandwiches and all-natural chicken tenders.
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April–Aug.
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays and weekends, Sept.–Oct.
Closed: Nov.–Feb.
Hot Dog Diner
(near Reptile Discovery Center)
All-natural beef hot dogs with assorted gourmet toppings.
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fall/Winter
11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Spring/Summer
Snack Stand & Kiosks
(located throughout the Zoo)
Lemonade cart, Dippin' Dots ice cream, kettle corn, fresh market cart and more!
11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Late March–August
Various hours: Friday & weekends, Sept.–Oct.
Closed: Nov.–late March