About matchbox
Discover the story behind Matchbox — a chef-driven, upscale neighborhood restaurant brand known for wood-fired pizzas, mini burgers, and unforgettable dining experiences. Proudly part of Thompson Restaurants. Where food is made from scratch, drinks are served with a smile, and events are held with delight.
Born from Fire. Built for Flavor.
Matchbox began with a spark — literally. In 2003, a group of passionate restaurateurs transformed a historic building in Washington, D.C. into a vibrant, wood-fired kitchen. The goal? To create a space where bold flavors, great drinks, and unforgettable moments could come together.
From our first pizzas to the mini burgers that have become a cult favorite, Matchbox was never just about food — it was about energy, connection, and craft.
Our Story, In Moments
2003: Matchbox opens in D.C. — quickly earns “Best New Restaurant”
2005–2015: Expands across the DMV, building a loyal following
2020: Joins the Thompson Restaurants family
2025: Brand refresh launched, inspired by guest feedback and culinary evolution
What We Stand For
We’re not just a restaurant — we’re a gathering place. Our kitchens are led by chefs, our menus are built to mix and match, and our spaces are designed to spark conversation.
Core Values:
Connection: Meals are meant to be shared
Craft: Every dish starts with premium ingredients and intention
Innovation: We evolve, but never compromise
Authenticity: We honor our roots while embracing what’s next
Energy: From the kitchen to the table, we bring the heat
Service: Hospitality is our heritage — and our promise
The Refresh: Inspired by You
After two decades of serving communities across the East Coast, we listened. Guests told us they wanted more — more shareable options, more personality, more Matchbox.
So we evolved. Our new look is bold, modern, and unmistakably us. Our menus are tighter, smarter, and more craveable than ever. And our kitchens? Still the heart of everything we do.
This refresh isn’t a reinvention. It’s a refinement — a celebration of what makes Matchbox special, elevated for today.
Real Food. Great Fun.
Whether you’re here for brunch towers, happy hour sliders, or a wood-fired pizza with friends, Matchbox is your place to pair and share. We’re proud to be part of the Thompson Restaurants family — a collective of brands that believe in quality, community, and true hospitality. Come hungry. Leave happy. That’s the Matchbox way.
