Food & Shopping

The Smithsonian's National Zoo offers a variety of dining and shopping options located throughout the park. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and snacks into the Zoo.

Shopping

Bring the Zoo home with you! Explore a large collection of clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, books, toys and Bird Friendly® certified coffee at several locations throughout the park.

Gift shops are located inside the Visitor Center, at Panda Plaza, and near the Great Cats exhibit. Outdoor gift kiosks can also be found throughout the park.

Can’t get to the Zoo? Visit the Smithsonian’s online store and see what’s available!

Dining

Photo of a cheeseburger with fries.

Elevation Burger at Mane Grill

Guests can choose from tasty favorites like 100% organic grass-fed beef burgers, chicken sandwiches, vegetarian and vegan burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, fries and milkshakes made from hand-scooped ice cream. Indoor seating available.

Location: Lion-Tiger Hill

Hours: Opens at 10:30 a.m.

Image of the Zoo Market and Cafe logo. Includes the text and an illustration of a golden lion tamarin.

Zoo Market Cafe & Deli

Zoo Market Café featuring offers delicious, made-to-order sandwiches and wraps, fresh salads, hot breakfast sandwiches and Bird Friendly® coffee. Or, indulge your sweet tooth with gelati, Italian ice, frozen custard and cookies! Vegetarian options available. 

Location: Outside the Small Mammal House

Hours: Hours vary based on weather and park attendance

A half-pie of pepperoni pizza with a slice gently pulling apart in the middle.

Sbarro

Enjoy quick bites and combo meals of hot pizza and calzones, chicken tenders, fresh salads and fries at this outdoor lunch stand with spacious courtyard seating. Vegetarian options available. 

Location: Panda Plaza

Hours: Opens at 9 a.m.

Auntie Anne's and Carvel Logos

Auntie Anne's, Carvel and Cinnabon

Indulge in a snackable selection of soft pretzels, cinnamon buns, churros, frozen lemonade, Carvel® ice cream and soft drinks.­ Both outdoor locations—the Giant Panda Overlook and Mane Grill on weekends—are open during warmer months.

Locations: Panda Overlook, Mane Grill (weekends only)

Hours: Hours vary based on weather and park attendance

cardboard box filled with popcorn

Food Trucks

Stop at one of the Zoo’s many food trucks for a wide selection of drinks and snacks, including popcorn, coffee, ice cream, BBQ, beer and cocktails and more!

Currently featuring:
Ben & Jerry’s 
Bootheel Bar B Que 
Dippin' Dots 
Dolci Gelati 
Popcorn Wagon 
Vintage Views

Location: Various

Hours: Times and dates vary based on park visitation and weather