Frequently Asked Questions

Reservation

How do I make a reservation?

Reservations can only be made through OpenTable . We do not accept reservation requests through email, social media, or phone. If you do not see any availability, please try again another date.

As a 22-seat restaurant, our availability is limited, and we receive a high volume of reservation requests each day. SHIA is open only for dinners from Tuesday to Saturday from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm. We are closed on Sundays, Mondays, and national holidays.

When are reservations released?

Reservations are released via OpenTable 90 days in advance at 5:00 PM EST.

I don’t see any availability on OpenTable. How can I reserve?

We may be fully booked if you do not see any availabilities on OpenTable. Be sure to take advantage of OpenTable’s “Notify Me” option, which will allow you to receive notification the second a new reservation becomes available.

We also may release a small number of same-day reservations if they become available. Those reservations will be released before 2:00 pm, and we will contact you via phone to obtain any dietary restrictions or occasion information. Please make sure to have your OpenTable account updated with the most recent information so we can get in touch!

Do you take walk-ins?

We accept walk-ins at our bar/lounge area for cocktail service. However, reservations are required for all dining-related services to align with our sustainability practices. The best time to arrive is between 6:30 - 7:30 pm or 8:30 pm to 10:00 pm.

What is the cancellation policy?

We ask 48 hours notice for cancellations or reservation rescheduling. Cancellations/reschedules made within 48 hours of your reservation date will incur a charge of the full price of dinner per person + tax and 20% gratuity. This helps align with our sustainability mission, as we prepare specific portions of meal each day for our guests.

I’m a single diner and can’t make a reservation at OpenTable. What can I do?

We accept limited single diners for our 5-course menu at the bar via OpenTable. If you do not see any availabilities via OpenTable it means we are fully booked at this time.

Can we make a reservation for a group of 6 individuals?

Yes! We're pleased to announce that reservations for groups of up to 6 are now available directly through OpenTable. Simply select your desired date and time on our OpenTable page to book.

I have to change or update something in my reservation. Can I email?

Please correspond with us via OpenTable messenger regarding any updates, changes or cancellation related to your reservation to ensure timely communication. We do not want to miss your message and we ask you reach out to us via OpenTable messenger and not email for timely response.

Can I email or call to make a reservation?

We do not take reservations via phone or email. We appreciate you understanding the fair process for all guests. No exceptions. SHIA takes reservations via OpenTable booking system only. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Food

Dietary Restrictions

Due to the inclusion of ingredients integral to Korean culture and cuisine, we cannot accommodate the following dietary restrictions: celiac, soy, legume, nightshade vegetable, or allium. We can accommodate vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, seafood allergies, shellfish allergies, and nut allergies. Individuals with aversions to seafood may not fully enjoy the experience, as a large portion of our menu is seafood-based at this time. Please note that our kitchen operates on a minimal-waste, sustainability-driven model. This means we do not stock additional ingredients for last-minute changes. If we receive notice less than 48 hours before your reservation, we may need to omit elements of dishes rather than substitute additional ingredients. Please let us know right away so we can prepare with care.

Can children dine, too?

Children aged 12 or older are welcome at SHIA, although we do not offer a children’s menu. All seated guests will have the same tasting menu. We do not allow infants or children younger than 12.

Will the menu change?

The menu changes seasonally, based on the availability of ingredients and at the discretion of Chef Edward Lee.

What are the different menu and dining options?

We provide three different experiences at SHIA.

• The 7-course tasting menu in the dining room at $185 per person
• The 5-course tasting menu in the bar/lounge area at $90 per person

Our menus change seasonally. Please find our latest menu and information on our new dishes on our website (Menu) and our Instagram page (@shia_dc).

I have a reservation and have other food-related questions.

We look forward to having you at SHIA. Please send us your questions and details via OpenTable.

Experience

How long is the dinner?

Due to our seating capacity limitations and to ensure ample time for cleaning and sanitizing, we kindly ask all guests to observe a 2.5-hour time limit at the table.

What is the dress code at SHIA?

Smart business attire is appreciated. Please refrain from wearing athletic wear, casual shorts, or flip-flops. We do ask that our guests refrain from strongly scented perfumes and cologne.

Where is SHIA located? I can’t seem to find it.

SHIA is located at 1252 4th Street NE, Washington, D.C. 20002. Our entrance will have a door with the sign SHIA, and it is located next to a coffee shop. If you have any questions, call us at 202-802-5166.

Do you have valet parking?

We do not have valet parking. Street parking is available throughout the neighborhood across the Florida Avenue NE heading south. Public parking garages are available nearby. The closest metro stop is NoMa-Gallaudet U New York Ave. We encourage our guests to arrange transportation that fits for their arrival.

Is SHIA accessible?

Yes, SHIA is fully ADA accessible. Our restaurant is designed to accommodate guests with mobility aids, and we are committed to making your experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. If you require specific accommodations or seating arrangements, please don’t hesitate to contact us in advance. This allows us to ensure you’re seated at the best table to fit your needs. We’re here to help make your visit seamless and memorable. For more information or to notify us of your requirements, please call us at 202-802-5166 or email info@shiarestaurant.org.

What is the corkage policy

Guests may bring up to two 750 ML bottles per table, or one magnum. Corkage fee is $75/bottle. Corkage bottles must not be available for our wine list. For our updated wine list, please reach out to info@shiarestaurant.org.

When can I call SHIA to ask questions?

Phone calls are answered Tuesday through Saturday, from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM EST. We do not monitor voicemails.

Will Chef Lee be there?

Although we can't predict when Chef Edward Lee will be available due to his busy schedule with multiple restaurants and projects, we always appreciate his surprise appearances. With or without Chef Lee's presence, SHIA remains committed to providing all guests with the best possible experience. We're confident that you'll enjoy the exceptional cuisine and meticulous details that Chef Lee has crafted for you, regardless of whether he is present.