The DMV (District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia) area is home to a vibrant and diverse food scene, driven not just by talented chefs and restaurateurs but also by a new generation of influencers who are reshaping the way we experience and think about food. From Instagrammers who capture mouthwatering dishes to bloggers who highlight hidden culinary gems, these influencers are changing the narrative, bringing new perspectives, and putting the spotlight on the region’s growing food culture. Here are eight food influencers making waves in the DMV area.
1. @dcfoodporn (Justin Schuble)
Justin Schuble, the creator behind @dcfoodporn, has become a household name in the DMV food community. His Instagram feed is filled with vibrant photos of over-the-top burgers, decadent desserts, and picturesque brunch spreads from top restaurants in the area. With over 300K followers, Schuble has a talent for finding the most visually stunning dishes and sharing his recommendations with a large, engaged audience.
Why They’re Changing the Narrative:
Schuble’s visually-driven content taps into the millennial and Gen Z demand for “Instagrammable” food, influencing restaurant presentation trends and driving foot traffic to local establishments.
2. @blackgirlswhobrunch (Vanessa B.)
Vanessa, the voice behind @blackgirlswhobrunch, is an advocate for diversity in the culinary world. Through her Instagram and blog, she highlights restaurants owned by people of color and showcases diverse flavors from across the DMV area. Whether it’s a casual brunch spot or an upscale dining experience, Vanessa’s recommendations always celebrate inclusivity and cultural richness.
Why They’re Changing the Narrative:
By promoting POC-owned businesses and highlighting diverse cuisines, Vanessa is helping shift the conversation towards representation and equality in the food industry.
3. @dmvnomster (Anna Le)
Anna Le, better known as @dmvnomster, specializes in exploring the culinary underbelly of the DMV, from food trucks to mom-and-pop restaurants. Her mission is to uncover hidden gems that might otherwise go unnoticed. With a love for all things local, Anna’s content offers an authentic look at the diversity of food options available across the DMV.
Why They’re Changing the Narrative:
Anna brings attention to small, family-run eateries, helping them gain recognition and thrive in a competitive market dominated by larger, more established restaurants.
4. @thefoodtographer (Jessica van Dop DeJesus)
As a food and travel writer, Jessica van Dop DeJesus combines her love for exploring new destinations with her passion for food. Her blog, The Dining Traveler, takes followers on a journey to discover the best global cuisine in the DMV, from Ethiopian stews to Cuban sandwiches. Jessica brings a worldly perspective to the local food scene, making her a go-to source for foodies seeking international flavors.
Why They’re Changing the Narrative:
Jessica’s content highlights the international influence in the DMV food scene, reflecting the cultural melting pot that defines the region.
5. @districtfoodie (Tara T.)
Tara, the face behind @districtfoodie, has a knack for finding the best food deals, hidden speakeasies, and new restaurant openings in the Washington, DC area. She is always on the hunt for something unique, making her Instagram page a must-follow for locals who want to stay ahead of the curve in terms of new dining experiences.
Why They’re Changing the Narrative:
Her ability to spotlight trending spots and guide her audience through the latest restaurant openings is a major factor in shaping how locals experience dining in the city.
6. @platingmemories (Rochelle Cooper)
Rochelle Cooper, or @platingmemories, is all about bringing heart and soul to the food she showcases. A DMV native, Rochelle’s posts not only highlight food but also tell the stories behind the dishes, chefs, and eateries. Her content is heavily focused on comfort food, including Southern cuisine, barbecue, and soul food, giving her audience an intimate connection to the meals she shares.
Why They’re Changing the Narrative:
Rochelle’s storytelling approach adds depth to the food experience, reminding followers that food is more than just something we eat—it’s a way to connect with culture, history, and family.
7. @momunches (Mona Shah)
Mona Shah of @momunches has built a brand around being a “foodie mom.” Her content focuses on family-friendly eateries, healthy dining options, and accessible recipes for busy parents. With an emphasis on nutritious meals that don’t sacrifice flavor, Mona is shaping the conversation around health-conscious dining in the DMV, making her a resource for parents and families in the area.
Why They’re Changing the Narrative:
Mona’s focus on family dining and health-conscious options offers a unique voice in a landscape often dominated by indulgent food trends, promoting a balance between tasty and nutritious eating.
8. @scenesfrommydinner (Kiana White)
Kiana White, better known as @scenesfrommydinner, combines her love for photography with a deep appreciation for fine dining. Her posts showcase beautiful dishes from some of the DMV’s top restaurants, focusing on plated perfection and upscale dining experiences. Beyond the aesthetics, Kiana uses her platform to review and recommend restaurants, helping elevate the profile of high-end eateries in the region.Why They’re Changing the Narrative:
Kiana’s focus on fine dining and her ability to curate elegant food content has helped shine a spotlight on the DMV’s sophisticated culinary offerings, encouraging more attention on presentation and quality.
The Power of Food Influencers in the DMV
These eight influencers are more than just food enthusiasts—they are tastemakers, trendsetters, and storytellers who play a critical role in shaping the DMV’s food scene. Through their diverse perspectives, they not only highlight the best eats in the area but also create meaningful conversations about culture, community, and inclusivity in the culinary world. As the food landscape continues to evolve, these influencers will undoubtedly remain at the forefront, changing the way we see and experience food in the DMV.