Elegancia, Wilmer Valderrama’s new restaurant in Washington, D.C., officially opened this week — and it’s already deeply personal for the NCIS actor. Located in Union Market’s La Cosecha, the restaurant is co-owned by Valderrama and hospitality partner Daniella Senior.
The menu highlights flavors from across Latin America, but one dish stands out emotionally: sancocho. Valderrama says tasting Chef Jova Urriola’s version of the soup moved him to tears and immediately reminded him of his mother and childhood kitchen memories.
At Elegancia, sancocho is served free at the end of the night, meant to feel “like a hug.” The menu also includes eggplant tamales, choripán, Afro-Caribbean–inspired empanadas, and vibrant cocktails.
Valderrama says Elegancia is meant to be a place for celebration, connection, and comfort — whether it’s date night, a birthday, or simply treating yourself to something special rooted in tradition.