As the Mubadala Citi DC Open commenced on July 21, 2025, visitors to the William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center were treated not only to world-class tennis but also to a vivid celebration of Washington, D.C.’s rich culinary heritage. The tournament’s “Taste of the District” culinary initiative showcased local flavors that had fans raving about the delicious off-court experience.
Now in its 56th men’s and 13th women’s edition, the Mubadala Citi DC Open is one of the only ATP‑500/WTA‑500 combined events globally. It runs through July 27 and regularly attracts crowds in the tens of thousands—70,000 fans were expected this year.
One of the event’s strongest draws remains its off-court offerings. A “Taste of the District” lineup delighted fans with classic D.C. bites—from Ben’s Chili Bowl’s iconic half-smokes to DC dumplings and refreshing craft lemonades. Festival-goers praised the fusion of local food and high-level sport, noting that it created a distinctly Washington ambiance.
This year’s gastronomic selection soared to new heights, featuring seven Michelin-starred chefs alongside beloved local eateries. Patrick O’Connell of The Inn at Little Washington offered his signature truffle popcorn in exclusive lounges. Nick Stefanelli from Masseria served Italian favorites. José Andrés brought cooling gazpacho for evening matches. Jeremiah Langhorne of The Dabney delivered a gourmet catfish sandwich on sweet potato rolls. Miguel Guerra and Tatiana Mora from Michelin-starred Mita debuted vegetable-forward dishes.
Fans also found food staples from Ben’s Chili Bowl, Cava, Roaming Rooster, King Street Oyster Bar, and Duke’s Grocery. Sweet treats included Dolcezza gelato, Clayboy’s shaved ice, and Ladurée macarons. Beverage-centric lounges featured Mi Campo Tequila paired with Taco Bamba tacos and churros, along with wine, gin, vodka, and beer gardens.
Mark Ein, tournament chairman, remarked: “We strive to make Mubadala Citi DC Open one of the finest sports fan experiences in the world by featuring extraordinary cuisine from renowned and beloved chefs…”
On the court, an exceptional lineup drew the spotlight. Seven current top‑10 players across ATP and WTA participated. Grand Slam finalists and champions such as Taylor Fritz, Jessica Pegula, Madison Keys, Naomi Osaka, Ben Shelton, Emma Navarro, Daniil Medvedev, Frances Tiafoe, and defending champions Paula Badosa and Sebastian Korda competed in this year’s draw.
The star power helped the tournament continue its streak of sell-outs for four consecutive years. The event also stays true to its roots as the longest‑running pro tennis event to be held in an equal‑access public park, founded by Arthur Ashe in Rock Creek Park.
Spectators reported that regional cuisine significantly raised the enjoyment factor. Many noted that sampling dishes like half-smoke sausages and local lemonade while cheering on matches brought a warm, community-oriented vibe to what might otherwise be a high-pressure sporting event. One fan said the event felt less like a “snooty affair” and more like “a tennis tournament in the middle of a food and wine festival,” embracing its neighborhood charm.
Organizers have confirmed that they plan to expand the culinary experience further in future editions—adding new chefs, local partnerships, and possibly themed food zones.
More than just a culinary celebration, the Open supports local initiatives. A portion of the proceeds flows to the Washington Tennis & Education Foundation (WTEF), an organization dedicated to serving underprivileged youth through tennis and academics. The tournament’s presence also coincides with broader efforts to upgrade the aging Rock Creek Tennis Center, as D.C. government explores partnerships with the tournament’s ownership to fund facility improvements.
Goals for future editions include adding regional food brands and chefs to reflect D.C.’s diversity, enhancing off-court events such as autograph sessions, live music, and kid-friendly activities, and engineering more beverage activations with premium cocktails and non-alcoholic options.
Ein noted ongoing talks with additional chefs and partners eager to join the festival-like staging—a strategy that continues to position the Open as Washington’s “summer social scene stealer.”
The 2025 Mubadala Citi DC Open reaffirmed its status as more than a tennis tournament—it is a cultural event celebrating community, flavor, and sport. With the perfect balance of top-tier athleticism and culinary creativity, the Open delivers a memorable midsummer experience. Fans left full—in both spirit and stomach—and organizers are already plotting an even bigger showcase for next year.
