Join Manuel R. Cuellar for a dance through Mount Pleasant from morning to night.
As an Associate Professor of Spanish Literature and Language at George Washington University, Manuel R. Cuellar spends his days immersed in heady and linguistic pursuits: lecturing, grading papers and planning syllabi. But his nights are devoted to the language of dance. The Chihuahua, Mexico-native, has studied Mexican Ballet Folklorico, a traditional Mexican dance marked by swirling skirts, fast footwork and Mariachi music, since childhood and has found this piece of his heritage in DC.
Cuellar is a member of the DC Corazon Folklorico Dance Company, a performance troupe and foundation dedicated to preserving this Mexican performing art. This passion has become a major tenet of Cuellar's life's work. His 2022 book, Choreographing Mexico: Festive Performances and Dancing Histories of a Nation, explores how dance transmits cultural identity, something he experiences firsthand through Ballet Folklorico.
Most weekends, Cuellar can be found exploring his favorite places in Mount Pleasant, his home neighborhood. "Latin communities like Mount Pleasant are a vital part of the social fabric of the city," Cuellar says. "It's so vital to have neighborhoods that embrace your culture." Between arts institutions dedicated to Latin American history and culture and the best breakfast tacos in town, DC has become a home away from home for him.
Morning
Head over to La Tejana first thing in the morning. This Tex-Mex eatery has been attracting serious national buzz for some time for its locally famous breakfast tacos and with good reason. You might find a line of people out the front door on any given day, but they’re worth it.
This puts you right in the heart of one of his favorite neighborhoods: Mount Pleasant. Historically a hub for Latin American communities, this diverse, dynamic and distinct area boasts its own Main Street lined with beautiful historic row houses and bustling Latin-owned businesses.
Afternoon
Mexican Cultural Institute
Continue your stroll through Mount Pleasant in the direction of the Mexican Cultural Institute (MCI). The historic building was originally designed as a Beaux Arts mansion and once housed the Mexican Embassy. It’s now open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to tour the building, browse its rotating exhibits, or attend its timely events.
For more immersion in the legacy and traditions of Latin American culture, head to the National Museum of American History. Construction of the National Museum of the American Latino is still underway, but until then, visitors can check out its satellite exhibition. Also, make sure to check out what’s on at Columbia Heights’ GALA Hispanic Theatre, which regularly hosts theatrical, dance, musical and spoken word performances in both Spanish and English.
After strolling the National Mall and working up an appetite, head over to Mount Vernon to enjoy lunch at dLeña, a Michelin-recognized modern Mexican eatery. Known for its focus on wood-fired cooking, dLeña infuses a distinctive smoky flavor in everything, from the crab in their decadent guacamole to their flavorful meats.
Evening
Head to Foggy Bottom to visit George Washington University’s main campus, which has been standing since 1821. Soak up the energy of tomorrow’s leaders on a stroll around Kogan Plaza. Photos under the iconic gazebo are mandatory. Once the sun sets, it’s time to dance.
Check the schedule for the Corazon Folklorico Dance Company, which hosts regular workshops and performances that feature traditional Ballet Folklorico. Their stellar company (which Manuel happens to be a part of) has performed all over DC.
Haydee's Restaurant
By now, you’re likely ready for another meal. Polish off the busy day with some of the best El Salvadorian food east of the Southwestern U.S. at Haydee’s Restaurant, known for its authentic cuisine and fun live events. Grab a nightcap at La Tejana’s cocktail bar, open from Wednesday to Saturday. Salud!
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